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SOUTH SIDE IRISH PARADE

Sports: Moraine Valley duo are double-double trouble

REPORTER SECTION 3

THE

Volume LVI, No. 50

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

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Thursday, March 3, 2016

Harris: ‘There needs to be a culture change’ Chicago alderman says her experience prepares her to lead Clerk of Circuit Court

By Joe Boyle Chicago Ald. Michelle Harris (8th) heard the rumors, and her suspicions were confirmed after receiving a phone call.

“I was told that the Democratic Party was rescinding its support for Dorothy Brown for the Clerk of the Circuit Court and was supporting me,” Harris said after receiving the decision of the Cook County Democrats.

“It’s amazing. I had overwhelming support.”

Brown has been Circuit Court Clerk since 2000 and originally had the support of the Cook County Democrats. But an ongoing federal corruption investigation of Brown

resulted in the local Democrats looking in another direction.

The Democratic Party informed Brown on Oct. 23 that it had rescinded its support and was backing Harris. Despite a passionate plea by Brown, the Democrats told her at the slating meeting that the decision was final.

Harris was formally introduced that night at the Cook County Suburban Publishers dinner. Not to be outdone, Brown also was in attendance, trying to sway party members.

Along with Brown and Harris, Jacob Meister, an attorney who has been practicing law for 25 years, is running in the Democratic primary. The winner in the Democratic pri-

mary race will face Diane Shapiro, the Republican committeeman from Chicago’s 46th Ward. Shapiro is unopposed in the primary.

In an election year that Harris said is “upside down,” she said her greatest challenge is to inform the public on what the duties of the Circuit Court Clerk are.

“There needs to be a culture change,” said Harris. “Government is there to serve the public, not the other way around. We need to be cross-trained in all departments. We are in the people-pleasing business. It’s about Supplied photo delivering what people want.”

Chicago Ald. Michelle Harris (center) has been holding sessions with city and suburban residents to discuss her candidacy for the Clerk of Circuit

See HARRIS, Page 9 Court in the Democratic primary on Tuesday, March 15.

Rauner claims Madigan balks on university funding bill

By Joe Boyle Gov. Bruce Rauner accused House Speaker Michael Madigan (D-22nd) on Monday of manipulating the presidents of colleges and universities in Illinois to refrain from backing any measures proposed by the governor or Republicans before the March 15 primary.

Rauner’s latest salvo came after the governor vetoed two variations of bills to provide funding for college students through the Monetary Awards Programs, or MAP grants, during the past month. State Rep. Kelly Burke (D-36th) introduced the first version of the bill that passed through the Senate.

The governor said he supports a bill that is sponsored by state Rep. Ken Dunkin (D-5th) to provide $160 million in emergency funding to universities.

Rauner had invited several university presidents to stand beside him at a news conference.

According to Rauner, the presidents rejected the idea of attending the news conference because they did not want to anger Madigan. Rauner believes Madigan wants the budget impasse

Big hug after a big win Chicago Christian boys basketball coach Kevin Pittman gets ready for a hug (above) and gets two for the price of one as Jeff Mayberry (No. 40) and Anajuwan Spencer embrace him after the Knights’ 59-48 win at Illiana Christian on Friday. The Knights won their first regional title since 2008 — the first regional title won by a boys basketball team from the area since 2013. For details on the win and an update on how the Knights did in Tuesday’s sectional game, see Sports.

By Dermot Connolly

Hickory Hills to consolidate emergency phone boards and 911 center Seeking to comply with legislation passed earlier this year regarding Emergency Telephone System Boards (ETSB) and Public Safety Answering Point (PSAP), the Hickory Hills Council agreed to consolidate the city’s existing ETSB and maintain its own 911 emergency dispatch center.

The agreement was reached at the Feb.25 Committee of the Whole Meeting, where council members reviewed a report from Police Chief Alan Vodicka in which he presented two options available to meet the ETSB/PSAP legislation.

See FUNDING, Page 9

Rush facing two challengers in 1st Congressional District

Photos by Jeff Vorva

By Sharon L. Filkins

to continue to counter the governor.

“We have a bipartisan bill to fund our universities right now that I can support,” said Rauner. “Madigan won’t call the bill.”

Dunkin introduced HB 6409 last week. The state representative, who faces a Democratic primary challenge from Juliana Stratton, said the bill would provide funding to assist Chicago State University, Northeastern Illinois University, Eastern Illinois University and Western Illinois University. Rauner said Dunkin’s Bill would provide funding for these schools without raising taxes or cutting any social services.

In the meantime, Democrats are still considering presenting additional bills.

Dunkin recently sided with Rauner on several issues and has drawn the ire of Madigan and other local Democrats.

The likelihood of Democrats supporting a bill by Dunkin is unlikely.

State Sen Bill Cunningham (D-18th) said that hearings would be held this week to come up with ideas to work

According to Vodicka, the new statute requires Emergency Telephone System Boards, which serve a population of less than 25,000, to consolidate into a 911 Authority that meets the population requirement.

Currently, the city’s ETSB is comprised of seven members appointed by Mayor Mike Howley. They are responsible for overseeing the collection and disbursement of 911 surcharge funds.

Vodicka said the statute also requires the reduction of PSAPs by at least 50 percent or 2 PSAPs, whichever is greater.

The city’s Emergency 911 center is designated as a PSAP.

In addition, the statute further requires ETSBs to submit consolidation plans to the State 911 director by July 1, and complete the consolidation process by July 1, 2017.

“Option 1 would be to outsource the City’s 911 dispatching services and possibly shut down the 24/7 operation of the city’s Police Facility,” said Vodicka.

In Option 2, Hickory Hills’ ETSB will merge with other towns on the same radio frequency that utilizes the same Records Management and Computer Aided Dispatch Software. The towns include Justice, See HICKORY HILLS, Page 9

One of the few contested elections in the southwest suburbs on March 15 ballots will be the race between incumbent Cong. Bobby Rush (D-1st) and two challengers battling for the seat in Congress that Rush has held since 1993.

The 1st District stretches south and west from the Chicago lakefront to communities such as Manhattan and Elwood in Will County. Locally, it includes all or part of Evergreen Park, Oak Lawn, Palos Heights, Worth and Orland Park, as well as nearby communities such as Alsip and Crestwood.

Rush, 69, seldom has serious primary challengers, but this year, Howard Brookins Jr., and O. Patrick Brutus are running against him.

In the November general election, whoever wins will face either Jimmy

Lee Tillman II or August O’Neill Deuser, the two candidates running in the Republican primary, for the seat long held by Democrats.

Tillman, who promises to provide representation to “the urban and middle-class communities in Cook County to the rural and bedroom communities in Will County,” is the son of former Chicago alderman Dorothy Tillman.

Brookins, who has garnered the backing of House Speaker Michael Madigan (D-22nd), the chairman of the state Democratic Party, probably has the greatest chance of unseating the incumbent. He is an attorney now serving his third term as alderman of the 21st Ward on the South Side of Chicago.

In addition to being alderman since 2003, he is also a partner in See RUSH, Page 9

2 The Reporter

Thursday, March 3, 2016

Oak Lawn woman charged with bringing gun into court An Oak Lawn woman was arrested after Cook County Sheriff’s deputies said that she was in possession of loaded revolver as she was going through a security screening on Feb. 24 at the Bridgeview Courthouse.

Denise Smith, 47, of the 9100 block of South Central Avenue, was charged with unlawful use of a weapon on government property and aggravated unlawful use of a weapon.

She appeared for a bond hearing at the Bridgeview Courthouse on

POLICE REPORTS

Feb. 25. She posted 10 percent of her $10,000 bond and was released, according to the Cook County Sheriff’s office.

The Cook County Sheriff’s deputies said that Smith was arrested after she tried to attend a hearing for a relative. The deputies said Smith had a loaded .38 caliber Smith & Wesson revolver in her possession. The deputies took her into custody. The deputies also later said that she did not have a concealed carry license or a valid Firearm Owner Identification card.

Chicago Ridge residents to receive new carts for food scrap, yard waste Beginning April 1, Waste Management of Illinois, Inc. will provide Chicago Ridge residents with a new way to dispose of yard waste and food scrap waste services.

“We are very excited to partner with Waste Management for this added opportunity for food scrap collection along with yard waste.

This collection is a major green initiative that will not only reduce recyclables going to landfills but also help increase composting efforts,” said Chicago Ridge Mayor Chuck Tokar.

Waste Management will begin delivery of the new carts the week

of March 21. Residents may place the yard waste and food scrap carts out for collection on or after April 1 on their regular yard waste collection day. Residents who do not wish to receive the yard waste cart can email chicagoridgeyw@ wm.com by Friday, March 4.

A new 96-gallon cart will be delivered to residents’ homes to place their yard waste (such as grass, weeds, leaves, twigs, and branches) and food scraps for this year’s yard waste collection season April 1 to Nov. 30. The new carts will be gray with a gray lid, and will have a list of acceptable items on the cart lid.

Chicago Ridge

Evergreen Park

Burglary charge

Assault charges fil d

Eric Clanton, 33, of the 700 block of East 152nd Street, Phoenix, was charged with residential burglary following a home invasion that occurred at 3:20 p.m.

Feb. 24 in the 10300 block of South Austin Avenue. A resident of the home told police that she was woken up by the offender in her bedroom. She said that that he fled from the apartment when she screamed.

Police said the victim was able to take a photo of the offender before he fled, which helped identify him when police in Phoenix picked him up later that day. Police said Clanton was on parole for various felony convictions, and the Department of Corrections issued a warrant for a parole violation. He was held for a bond hearing.

• Nakyia Thomas, 21, of Evergreen Park, was charged with two counts of assault following an altercation with two other women in the parking lot of a gas station in the 2600 block of West 87th Street at 6:45 p.m. Feb. 22. Police said she threatened to batter two women who told her to move her car, and continued to threaten them when they arrived. Thomas was also charged with possession of 2.4 grams of marijuana.

• Michael Gonzales, 23, of Country Club Hills, was charged with aggravated assault following an altercation with a man in the 9500 block of South Lawndale Avenue at 9:10 p.m. Feb. 20. Police said the victim told police Gonzalez got out of a food delivery truck and waved a pipe at him, threatening to hit him and accusing him of a theft that did not happen. Gonzalez was also cited for driving off the street and onto grass.

Domestic battery Patrice Bennett, 24, of the 10400 block of South Ridgeland Avenue, Chicago Ridge, was charged with domestic battery following a disturbance at his home at 1:30 a.m. last Thursday.

Police said he pushed the victim several times in the chest during the incident. He was held for a bond hearing.

License charges • Joaquin S. Hermenejildo, 22, of the 2300 block of West 120th Street, Blue Island, was charged with driving on a suspended license following a traffic stop at 9:45 p.m. Feb. 24 in the 9500 block of South Oak Park Avenue.

Police said he was also cited for having an obstructed windshield.

He is due in court on April 13.

• Chameka C. Landford, 22, of the 8700 block of South Albany Avenue, Evergreen Park, was charged with driving on a suspended license when she was stopped at 6:15 p.m. Feb. 24 in the 10600 block of South Ridgeland Avenue. Police said she was also cited for traffic violations. She is due in court on April 7.

• Jacob Pietryla, 35, of the 10700 block of South Ridgeway Avenue, Chicago, was charged with driving on a suspended license following a traffic stop at 9:40 a.m. Feb. 24 in the 10700 block of South Ridgeway Avenue.

He was also cited for speeding, police said. Pietryla is due in court on April 7.

Speeding charge Waleed M. Assad, 18, of the 7800 block of West 79th Place, Bridgeview, was charged with aggravated speeding following a traffic stop at 3:55 a.m. last Thursday at 111th Street and Ridgeland Avenue. Police said he was traveling 74 mph in a 35 mph zone. He was also cited for unspecified traffic violations.

Assad is due in court on April 13.

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• Delma Mendoza, 28, of Chicago, was charged with retail theft at 2:34 p.m. Feb. 19 at Menards, 9100 S. Western Ave. Police said she took a programmable thermostat worth $69.98.

• Michael Byrd, 23, of Chicago, was charged with retail theft at 12:15 p.m. Feb. 23 at Walmart, 2500 W. 95th St. Police said he took a video game controller valued at $59.96.

• Clarence Jones, 63, of Chicago, was charged with felony retail theft at Menards, 9100 S. Western Ave. Police said he took seven saw blades worth $111.79, and the charge was upgraded to a felony because he was on parole.

Drug charges Jeffrey Burke, 39, of Hometown, was charged with felony possession of a controlled substance following a traffic stop at 6:16 p.m. Feb. 23 in the 3400 block of West 87th Street. Police said he was found with .8 grams of heroin. He was also cited for speeding and driving a car with expired registration.

Hickory Hills License charge Sami Shatat, 40, of the 7600 block of South Stickney Avenue, Bridgeview, was charged with driving on a suspended license following a traffic stop at 3:39 p.m. Feb. 24 in the 7900 block of West 87th Place. He is due in court on March 28.

Outstanding warrant Christina A. Gonzales, 20, of the 5300 block of South Hunt Avenue, Summit, was arrested at her home at 1:41 p.m. Feb. 24 on a Hickory Hills warrant for failure to appear in court. Police said the original charge was driving on a suspended license. Her new court date is March 28.

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Jose Ponce, 21, of the 8400 block of South Oak Park Avenue, was issued a village ordinance violation for possession of 1.7 grams of cannabis following a traffic stop at 7:41 p.m. Feb. 23 in the 8700 block of West 87th Street. Police said he was also given verbal warnings for driving on an expired license and one tail light. He was also cited for having overly tinted windows. He is due at a hearing at Hickory Hills City Hall on April 5.

Oak Lawn Retail theft Tremaine Covington, 18, of the

8100 block of South Peoria Avenue, Chicago, was charged with retail theft after police responded to an incident a Jewel at t 10:30 p.m. Feb. 17 at 4650 W. 103rd St., Jewel.

Store employees told police two men fled the story with bottles of whiskey and other liquor concealed in their clothing. They said they had tried to buy some liquor, but were refused because they had no ID. As they left, employees noticed them hiding other bottles and tried to stop them. One offender escaped but Covington was apprehended in the 10300 block of South Kenton Avenue.

He dropped some whiskey bottles, but five bottles of tequila were found in his backpack. Police said the men each took liquor with a total value of about $183.

Covington was also charged with possession of cannabis, and was issued a summons to appear in court on April 1.

was charged with criminal trespassing and possession of cannabis when he was found asleep in the closed Metra station, 5120 Museum Drivee, at 1:30 a.m. Feb. 21. Police said he was carrying two grams of marijuana. Freeze is due in court on April 1.

Criminal damage

• A victim of identity theft told police about 1 p.m. Friday that when she attempted to submit her income tax return, she was told that someone had already submitted a tax return in her name. Police said the woman has made contact with the IRS to resolve the problem.

• A woman reported being the victim of identity theft and credit card fraud at 5 p.m. Saturday.

She said she was informed by JC Penney that someone had attempted to make $2,000 in purchases at a store in Atlanta using her card information. Because the attempt was suspected to be fraudulent, the sale was not allowed and the account was closed. Upon further investigation, the victim then learned that someone had used her Victoria’s Secret credit card to purchase $993.41 in merchandise at the store in Ford City Mall in Chicago.

• Police were called to a home in the 10500 block of South Aspen Drive regarding an identity theft report at 2 p.m. Sunday.

The victim said that he had just learned someone had opened a Fingerhut account in his name and charged $950 to it when the company called to tell him he was delinquent on payments. The man also said someone had tried to open a Sprint account in his name, but the company did not allow it to go through.

Brian L. Blackwell Jr., 24, of the 9400 block of South Normal Avenue, Chicago, was charged with domestic-related criminal damage to property after police said he damaged a car in the parking lot of Red Lobster, 9500 Southwest Highway, at 11:30 a.m. Feb. 19.

Police said Blackwell admitted kicking the car, breaking a tail light and doing other damage to a car owned by an ex-girlfriend.

He was held for a bond hearing.

Multiple off nses Jose Davila, 22, of the 6600 block of South Kolin Avenue, Chicago, and his passenger, were charged with multiple offenses following a traffic stop at 1:20 p.m. Feb. 19 in the 9200 block of South 51st Avenue.

Police said he was charged with driving on a suspended license, unlawful use of a weapon because a stun gun was found in the car, and possession of cannabis. He was also cited for not wearing a seat belt. His passenger, Consuelo E. Hernandez, 30, of the 3300 block of South Paulina Avenue, Chicago, was also charged with possession of cannabis and drug paraphernalia. Police said a glass pipe was found in the glove box in front of Hernandez, and a small amount of marijuana was found in the center console. They are both due in court on March 31.

Conduct charge Diane M. Pfeffer, 49, of the 4900 block of West Columbus Drive, Oak Lawn, was charged with disorderly conduct following a confrontation with a neighbor outside her apartment complex at 5:10 p.m. Feb. 20.

The neighbor told police that while he and a friend were talking outside, watching their children play in the grass, Pfeffer ran up to the children, pointing her finger as if she had a gun, and saying “bang, bang, bang, now you’re dead.” Police said that when they went to her apartment and asked about the incident, she laughed it off, saying, “I can do whatever I want.” She is due in court on April 7.

Driving charges filed

DUI charge filed Sherry L Sircher-Gaittens, 49, of the 6100 block of West 63rd Place, Chicago, was charged with driving under the influence of alcohol and other charges at 1:42 a.m. Feb. 16 in the 6700 block of West 95th Street. Police said she registered .141 blood-alcohol count on a breath test, and was also cited for speeding, improper lane usage, and driving without a license on her person. She is due in court on March 25.

Palos Hills Identity theft reports

Telephone harassment A man filed a telephone harassment report with police at 10 a.m.

Saturday. He said an unknown male had called his cellphone four times, making racial comments.

Car reported stolen A man reported his older model Pontiac was stolen from the 8400 block of West 101st Street at 2 p.m.

Saturday. The victim told police that he parked his vehicle there at 8 p.m. Friday when it began making a strange noise. He said it was gone when he returned the following day.

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.

Joe D. Torres, 28, of the 12800 block of Winchester Avenue, Blue Island, was charged with driving on a suspended license and other offenses when he was stopped at 12:27 a.m. Feb. 21 in the 9600 Area police block of South Pulaski Road. Police said he was also cited for departments driving without insurance, suspended registration, and failure Chicago Ridge 425-7831 to notify the secretary of state Evergreen Park 422--2142 of an address change. He is due Hickory Hills 598-4900 in court on March 17.

Oak Lawn 499-7722 Criminal trespassing Palos Hills 598-2272 David R. Freeze, 52, of the 9000 Worth 448-3979 block of South Ridgeland Avenue,

SWSRA seeks charity runners for Southwest Half Marathon The South West Special Recreation Association is looking

for charity runners to participate in the 2016 Southwest Half

Marathon and 10K to be held Sunday, May 1.

The two races, formerly known as the First Midwest Bank Half Marathon and 10K, are 13.1 and 6.2 miles. The course for both events will go through the streets of Palos Heights. Money raised from the events will go for the SWSRA Scholarship Fund. Charity runners will need to raise a minimum of $100 and will receive a singlet to represent SWSRA while they participate in the race.

Money raised for the event will go for individuals with special needs. For more information or how to sign up, contact the SWSRA office at (708) 389-9423 or visit www.swsra.com.

Thursday, March 3, 2016

The Reporter

CHICAGO RIDGE

Driving to vacation spots with no Wi-Fi and TV

Board confers on CDBG grants

T

he Chicago Auto Show has just rolled out of the city. A variety of vehicles were on display and the annual event again drew large crowds that came to stare at the latest models.

Of course, there are people who attend the auto show with the sole purpose of buying a new car, truck or SUV. I was never one of them. The vehicles on display are interesting to look it. We can all fantasize when we get behind the steering wheel. But after about an hour or so, I tended to get bored. I was not going to buy any of these cars because none of them were in my price range.

So, after a while it just becomes kind of futile. It’s like going to a party that you were not invited to.

Hey, I like new cars. I’m amazed at the features these vehicles have. Newer vehicles can park themselves. And to think I used to pain over learning to Joe parallel park when I was in driver’s ed in high school. Learning to parallel Boyle park in Chicago was necessary when I was in high school. Living in the suburbs where many of the homes have driveways means that I’m a little rusty with that skill.

But with newer cars, you don’t have to worry about that. Many vehicles have been equipped with TVs for some time now. Wi-Fi is becoming a standard feature in most vehicles. I think it’s great ­— if you can afford it.

When I look at the prices of a lot of new vehicles today, it would probably be better to put money down for a house.

In the long run, it might be a better investment. The main problem with a new car is that as soon as you drive it out of a lot, it depreciates in value My philosophy is to get as much mileage out of my car as possible. I’m actually driving a car right now that has become extinct. My 2002 Saturn sedan still rides well. The heat works fine during the winter and the air conditioning will keep me cool when it gets hot again.

The radio works, and so do the speakers. I still have a CD player and I often listen to CDs on my way home from work.

Heck, about 20 years ago what I have in my car would have been a big deal. Now when I enter a new car, I’m sort of lost perusing the interior. Vehicles have so many additional accessories that it’s hard to find everything.

When I was young and would go on vacations during the summer with my family, we did not have TVs in the car. To make the time pass as we traveled to either Michigan or Wisconsin, we would play a game in which we would count gas stations. One sibling would be on the other side of the car counting how many they could see. Another sibling might work as sort of an intermediary, checking to see if we are accurately counting the gas stations.

Yes, there were some disputes. Sometimes I saw gas stations that didn’t exist. Hey, sometimes we just made it up. We were having fun, but we could be competitive.

But it was a way of passing time on roads leading up to cabins or houses that our family would stay in for a week. When we would go to places like Northern Wisconsin, the best thing was to just go to sleep for a while.

But with three brothers and two sisters, it was usually a little too loud.

Looking back at those days, I felt sorry for my father and mother. Dealing with a carload of kids who would get cranky must not have been fun. I suppose my dad could have used those TVs in the back. But you don’t miss what you don’t have. For the most part we had fun.

The landscape offered more than gas stations. We would see horses at stables, and cows on farms. Those were sights we did not see in our Chicago neighborhood back home.

My dad had a radio in the car. It was nothing special — this was in the days when it was strictly AM radio.

Sometimes he might be listening to a talk show or a ballgame. Often he had the volume down low and tried to conduct a conversation with my mother.

That’s another reason we were loud in the car. We had to talk louder because the windows were most likely open. Air-conditioning was not featured in most cars in the mid-1960s. Depending on how far we were traveling, my dad would be listening to a ballgame that would begin to fade out or blend in with another local station.

We could hardly wait to drive up to our vacation spot. We would swim, fish and play board games. These places usually did not have TVs. We would keep each other company. I guess that is one advantage of having a big family.

And we would get to those vacation homes in our old Rambler. We didn’t have Wi-Fi or TVs. We had Clue, Life, Monopoly, the beach and each other.

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

3

By Dermot Connolly

Supplied photo

The annual health fair will be held at St. Xavier University on March 18. The fair will include health demonstrations and screening, including blood pressure checks (above).

SXU to host 13th Health Fair Free health screenings, assessments and information are available at St. Xavier University’s 13th Annual Health Fair from 8:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Friday, March 18 in the Shannon Center at on campus, 3700 W. 103rd St., Chicago.

The fair is a “one-stop shop” of free health services. It includes free screenings and assessments for the following: blood pressure, blood glucose, bone density, hearing and vision, spinal cord, injuries, cholesterol, stress, body mass index, and more.

Rainbow Therapy Dogs will be on hand at the fair. Free chair massages and healthy cooking demonstrations will also take place.

Fifteen-minute exercise classes will take place every 30 minutes beginning at 9 a.m.

Demonstrations about child and adult CPR, first aid, pilates, spinning and boxing will be

provided. A raffle, scavenger hunt, a children’s activity corner and face painting will be part of the proceedings.

A blood drive hosted by Heartland Blood Centers will be held at the fair. Pre-registration can be arranged by calling the Shannon Center, (773) 298-3592.

Neighborhood vendors will be at the fair to share health information, including representatives of Advocate Christ Medical Center. SXU representatives will be at the fair, including the Department of Communication Sciences and Disorders, the Ludden Speech and Language Clinic, the Health Center, the School of Nursing, SXU Nutrition classes, SXU Health Communications classes, and Shannon Center trainers.

More information can be obtained by calling (773) 298-3592.

Worth golf course news is encouraging

By Sharon L. Filkins The Worth Board of Trustees received some good news about the Water’s Edge Golf Course at its regular meeting on Tuesday.

Trustee Tedd Muersch, Jr. board liaison to the golf course, reported that the facility is in a good place.

“I would like to take credit for that fact, but I attribute it to our new general manager, Dean Gabey who has brought a new energy to the club,” said Muersch.

“We already have 47 golf outings on the book for this year, which is 37 percent ahead of last year’s number. Several of the scheduled outings will bring 120 to 140 golfers to the club for each event, which is the maximum number for the course. These numbers are great financially for the club,” he said.

He added that Gabey has brought some new marketing strategies to the facility, which is really getting the word out to the area about upcoming activities. Future events include a Shamrock Scramble on March 19 and brunches planned for Easter and Mother’s Day, with those dates yet to be announced.

He also announced that Water’s Edge has re-negotiated a lease agreement with EasyGo, the company, which provides the club’s golf carts. The club was in the fourth year of a five-year lease, at a cost of $9,000 per month, providing an option to purchase the golf carts at the end of the five year contract.

The new lease will provide new carts at a cost of $6,000 per month with a beverage cart and two maintenance carts added to the deal.

Muersch said it did not make any sense to buy the five-year old carts because of the years of wear and tear.

“We were very happy with the new contract and glad that we were able to stay with EasyGo,” said Muersch.

In other board action, a business license was approved upon the recommendation of the Economic Development Commission for Luxe Embellishment to be located at 6401 W. 107th St.

The approval is contingent upon the business passing all inspections and being in compliance with all codes and ordinances.

Luxe Embellishment is a specialty retail store selling Irish dance, bridal, communion and every day accessories.

Also approved was an ordinance approving a lease agreement and an amendment to the lease agreement with PNC Equipment Finance, LLC concerning personal property at Water’s Edge Golf Club.

A resolution was approved for the allocation of $300,000 MFT funds allowing for general maintenance of streets and highways in Worth, such as streetlight repairs and curb replacements.

In the public comment portion of the meeting, resident German Cordova presented a petition signed by residents living on Depot Street, between Southwest Highway and 107th Street, requesting that parking be banned on both sides of the street.

Cordova, a 10-year resident on that street, had attended a previous meeting during which he raised an objection to tenants from a condominium located on his street parking their vehicles on the street instead of in the parking lot provided for their building. He said it was unfair to the other residents, presented a safety hazard, and prevented the street from being plowed properly.

Trustee Pete Kats agreed that he had a good case and asked if the board could take action on the petition.

Village Attorney, Greg Jones said that an ordinance would have to be prepared and then brought to the board for approval.

Mayor Mary Werner said she would direct the attorney to prepare the ordinance. However, she wanted to reach out to the owner of the condominium first to see if an agreement could be peacefully reached to require the tenants to park in the space provided for the building.

“This will be addressed at our next board meeting,” she said.

Trustee Kevin Ryan was not present but had given notice that he would be unable to attend the meeting.

The deadline for applying for Community Development Block Grant funds through the state is approaching, and the Chicago Ridge Village Board spent some time at the Tuesday meeting discussing whether to seek CDBG funds for street improvements of water tower renovation.

Village engineer Andrew Pufundt informed the board that applications will be due in April for the CDBG grants, which are funds from the U.S. Dept. of Housing and Urban Development that are distributed by states. He said that last year, municipalities applied for grants for as much as $400,000, and it is hoped that about that much would be available this year as well.

Mayor Chuck Tokar pointed out that last year the village’s application for a CDBG grant to be used for rehabbing the village water tower was turned down, after being awarded the previous year for another project. CDBG funds can only be used for utility or infrastructure repairs.

“Maybe they were just reluctant to give it to us two years in a row,” he said.

Tokar suggested that because the cost of the maintenance work needed to be done on the village water tower, including exterior painting and interior inspection, has been estimated to cost $800,000, that might not be the best project to use CDBG funds on. He said it would still leave the village with a bill of at least $400,000 to cover the remaining costs.

The mayor said any grant money received might be better used on street improvements.

“We do have quite a few streets that need repairs and qualify for the money,” he said, noting that CDBG funds can only be used in areas of municipalities where the average income does not exceed a certain level.

“There is no doubt that a lot of our streets have really gotten a battering in recent years,” Tokar said, adding that last winter was much worse than the current one.

However, Trustee Jack Lind stressed the importance of maintaining the water tower.

“I agree the streets are very important, but we can’t wait for CDBG funds to get the water tower done. We don’t know when they will be coming anyway,” said Lind, the former public works director, suggesting that a bond issue might be needed to pay for it, rather than depleting the water and sewer fund or other village accounts to do it.

Lind said the water tower project entails much more than repainting the exterior.

“There is nothing more important to a community than its water supply. Ours is fine now, but we want to keep it that way. Some repairs are needed inside the tower,” he said.

“I have a background in this and we need a comprehensive study done every so many years,” said Lind. He said it may have been 16 years or more since the last one was done.

Lind explained that such a study would include inspecting the outside of the tower, and then using a camera to inspect the inside.

At his request, the board agreed to ask Public Works Director Stanley Barwock to get the process started, by seeking proposals to get the study done.

“You have your marching orders now, Stan,” Tokar told the director, who was in the audience.

In other business the board passed a resolution approving the village’s purchase of a vacant restaurant property at 10255 S. Harlem Ave. for $650,000.

Lind and Trustee Sally Durkin said after the meeting that acquisition of the former Nicobee’s restaurant, which will be torn down, was important because the property is located just south of a vacant trucking terminal that the village is trying to market to a developer.

New wheelchair-friendlier bleachers coming to District 230 schools

By Dermot Connolly All three District 230 high schools will get new gymnasium bleachers this year to comply with the latest federal mandates for public accommodation of persons with disabilities.

The bleachers, fully compliant with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), will be replaced on the main floor and balcony in the gyms at both Andrew, in Tinley Park, and Sandburg, in Orland Park.

At Stagg, only the bleachers on the main floor of the gym in Stagg will be replaced, because the Palos Hills school received new balcony bleachers in 2005.

Members of the school board agreed at their meeting last Thursday to accept a bid of $732,790 from Carroll Seating Co. to do the work. Bob Hughes, facilities director for the district, explained that only a few companies do this type of work, and the other company invited to bid, Larson Equipment & Furniture Co., offered $737,500.

Both bids came in lower than the $820,000 budgeted for the bleacher-replacement program.

The work will likely be done during summer break.

“We have worked with Carroll Seating several times in the past on our locker room renovation projects, and their work was finished on time and within our budget,” Hughes told the school board.

The new bleachers use individual plastic seat modules instead of traditional wooden, “blank” seats, and comply fully with new ADA codes, Hughes said. The bleachers will also have their own electric traction motors allowing them to be opened or closed with a hand-held controller.

Asked what the new ADA codes are, Hughes said they include having railings at the proper heights on each side of aisles,

which will also be wider.

Superintendent Dr. James Gay pointed out also that individual sections of bleachers will also be able to retract to make room for wheelchair seating.

Also at the meeting, the school board recognized Andrew Principal Bob Nolting for being named Illinois High School Principal of the Year by the Illinois Principals Association. He will now be under consideration for the national award.

“It is really a recognition for the school, so for Andrew it is good,” Nolting said afterward. “It is a big school, but not so big that as principal, you cannot take

time to get to know the students,” he added.

Nolting, a Lockport resident, joined District 230 in 2004, as associate principal of Andrew. He then moved to Sandburg, where he held the same position, from 2006 to 2009. He came back to Andrew as principal in 2009.

Earlier in his career, he was social studies teacher and athletics/activities director in Wisconsin. He currently serves as the District 3 representative on the IHSA Board of Control.

The Andrew principal said he was most touched by what a former student, one of three people who nominated him, said in a

letter of recommendation. In part, the student said, ““Mr. Nolting is more than a principal, he is a man with an unconditional loving heart for his students and staff,

and he is a glow of confidence and an inspiration to better yourself in every way.”

“It’s pretty cool to hear those words,” Nolting said.

4 The Reporter

Our Neighborhood

Thursday, March 3, 2016

Master illusionist entertains crowd at Evergreen Park Library The “Legacy of Black Musicians” was recognized Saturday at the Evergreen Park Library with the performance of “The Spellbinder,” who is also known as master illusionist Walter King Jr. King entertained a crowd of over 30 visitors that included adults and children. He introduced the crowd to works of Richard Potter,

a black man from England who began entertaining crowds in an original way in the mid-1800s.

King also entertained visitors with the magic of Jack Vaughn, who was also known as “Goldfinger.” Vaughn was first AfricanAmerican to perform magic in Las Vegas. King was the first

Youngsters look on in awe as illusionist Walter King Jr. appears to make a table levitate during a performance Saturday at the Evergreen Park Library.

King drops a scarf over a table that will soon take flight during “The Legacy of Black Magicians” performance.

King follows the path of the levitating table that almost reached the ceiling.

King, who describes himself as “The Spellbinder,” pulls two doves out of what appeared to be an empty scarf.

Photos by Joe Boyle

African-American illusionist to appear in Las Vegas.

King entertained the crowd by appearing to make a table levitate, he made two doves appear from under a scarf, and he concluded with a card trick. King’s performance was held in honor of Black History Month.

Isabelle Carney, a fourth-grade student at Southwest School in Evergreen Park, assists illusionist Walter King Jr. with a trick using different-sized threads. After Isabelle cut one of the threads, the illusionist appeared to put it back together again.

Metra service expanding on Heritage Corridor line Cong. Dan Lipinski (D-3rd) said that beginning on Monday, March 14, riders of the Heritage Corridor line will have another option for getting home each weekday when Metra adds mid-afternoon departure from Chicago.

The 2:45 p.m. departure from Union Station will expand weekday service on the line from six to seven trains, three inbound in

the morning and four outbound in the afternoon/evening, giving downtown commuters more options to get home. The train will make stops at Summit, Willow Springs, Lemont and Lockport before arriving at its final destination in Joliet at 4 p.m.

“After spending many years and countless hours fighting to get Heritage Corridor riders

more service, I am happy to finally see another train added to this line,” Lipinski said. “This new departure time will mean more people in the southwestern suburbs and Will County will be able to spend less of their valuable time each day driving on congested roads or traveling to less convenient Metra stations.

As the most senior member from Illinois on the Transportation and Infrastructure Committee, I look forward to continuing to work to increase, enhance, and expand commuter rail service across my district and the entire region.”

The new service required agreements from Canadian National, which owns the tracks and operates freight service on the line, as well as Amtrak. Metra will launch the service on March 14 with a press event including Lipinski, public officials, and other area stakeholders.

“I want to thank Metra — especially CEO/Executive Director Don Orseno and board member Lemont Mayor Brian Reaves – for working to add this service to the Heritage Corridor,” stated Lipinski.

Compiled by Joe Boyle News and events from our archives Oak Lawn offers to sell water to Palos Heights, Palos Park • 50 years ago From the March 3, 1966 issue The story: The Village of Oak Lawn has offered to sell water to Palos Heights and/or Palos Park for 35 cents per thousand gallons. The first offer was made last week after a series of meetings initiated by the Palos community.

The route the water supply would follow has been left open, according to Oak Lawn Mayor Fred Dumke, but would probably follow Southwest Highway in order to put sources close to the hospitals soon to be built in the Palos area.

The line would be paid for by the Palos towns, but might be financed by Oak Lawn. Both Palos Heights and Palos Park have inquired into chances of getting water through Worth. No firm offer has come through Worth.

Plans set to convert section of Stony Creek into nature preserve

• 25 years ago

From the Feb. 28, 1991 issue The story: The Oak Lawn Environmental Task Force showed unanimous support last week for a proposed project calling for the conversion of a section of Stony Creek into a wetlands educational nature preserve.

The proposed wetlands restoration project would be instrumental in the task force’s efforts to clear a 3.5-mile stretch of Stony Creek that runs through the Southwest section of Oak Lawn, according to Oak Lawn Park District Director Ernest Nance.

The quote: “It literally acts as a screen for the water,” said Nance.

Oak Lawn Park Dist. requests aquatic facility at Centennial Park • 10 years ago

From the March 2, 2006 issue The story: The Oak Lawn Park District has a referendum on the March 21 ballot calling for a tax increase for an indoor/outdoor aquatic facility at Centennial Park, 93rd and Nashville Avenue.

The facility would be built to the east side of the Community Pavilion and would have a zerodepth area, an interactive area with squirt guns and water valves, a lap pool and water slide.

The outdoor facility would be south of the baseball diamonds at Centennial. Some residents had mixed reactions. However, one resident saw nothing wrong with the plan.

The quote: “The park district wouldn’t do this on a wing and a prayer,” said Oak Lawn resident David Klaussen. “It looks like a well-conceived plan, there’s room to do it, and if it pays for itself, like they say it could, I don’t see why not.”

Thursday, March 3, 2016

The Reporter

Marist students provide assistance for neighborhoods in New Orleans Marist High School juniors traveled to New Orleans in midFebruary to serve the community and grow in faith during a five day mission trip sponsored by the school’s campus ministry department.

The 26 juniors were led by senior leaders Erick Hofer and Ashley Smialek, who went on the trip last year. Five teachers also participated. The group split up into small teams at four worksites each day. They helped clean up and organize The Gathering, a church that operates Camp Hope, a volunteer camp for groups like Marist’s that come to help organizations and people throughout the city.

The students also worked at a community garden in the Lower Ninth Ward, the neighborhood hardest hit by Hurricane Katrina. They worked on composting, planting vegetables, feeding livestock, and installing new landscaping. The group helped paint fences and clean up the campus of a facility for adults with special needs.

They also peeled, primed and painted the dugouts at a community baseball complex that had gone unused for years.

5

WHATIZIT?

Marist students pose at a community baseball complex in New Orleans after a day of hard work. Twenty-eight students and fi e teachers served the community there during a five day mission trip that helped them grow in faith, community, and empathy.

Supplied photo

Photo by Joe Boyle

The Marist student closed the week by working at Rescue Ranch, a charity that takes in abused and neglected horses and provides equine therapy to teens and adults. The students cleaned the stalls, and groomed and fed the horses.

Each day’s work was capped off by an evening prayer service and reflection about the service and the people they helped.

“The students come to make some powerful observations about different cultures, people’s struggles, and social jus-

tice issues,” said Patrick Meyer, Class of 2010, Marist’s campus minister. “They realize they can help make a change.”

The students also got to explore the culture of New Orleans. They attended Mass at St. Louis Cathedral, and toured the French Quarter and Tulane University.

Marist has offered a mission to New Orleans since 2010. Typically there are three domestic and two international mission trips offered each school year.

During Easter break, students

will travel to Colorado on a mission trip.

Local students who took part in the trip for Marist were Joey Bennett, Palos Park; Emma Brennan, Palos Heights; Kayley Carey, Oak Lawn; Jack Carmody, Oak Lawn; Tom Engelhart, Palos Heights; Matt Finn, Orland Park; Leah Wood, Oak Lawn; Keagan Lenz, Oak Lawn; Molly Moore, Evergreen Park; Claire Stillman, Oak Lawn; Elizabeth Travnik, Oak Lawn; and Ryan Wollenberg, Evergreen Park.

Several readers recognized last week’s Whatizit photo, correctly guessing that it was Condrady Junior High School, 7950 W. 97th St., Hickory Hills.

Hickory Hills residents Calen and Mike Howley knew it was the exterior of Conrady School facing west along Roberts Road. Palos Hills resident Bob Hartley also knew it was Conrady Junior High School. Carol and Jerry Janicki, of Worth, also knew it was Conrady.

Conrady Junior High is in North Palos School District 117 and has nearly 1,000 students.

The clue for this week’s Whatizit photo (above): Around the ridge.

Send your responses by noon Monday to thereporter@comcast.net.

SUDOKU

COMMUNITY CALENDAR EVERGREEN PARK

Evergreen Park Seniors to hold village-wide garage sale The Evergreen Park Senior Citizens Council is looking for vendors and crafters for the “Memories to Go” village-wide garage sale to be held from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, May 7 at Yukich Field, 89th and Kedzie Avenue, Evergreen Park.

Inside the ice rink (10 x 10) is $50. The outside space (9 x 17) is $35. Repeat customers with early sign-up is $10 off. Early registration is $5 off. The deadline for repeat customers to sign up is Thursday, March 31.

No rain date or refunds will be given.

New this year is a Crafter’s Corner. Deadline for applications for the sale is 5 p.m.

Friday, April 29. More information can be obtained by calling (708) 422-8776.

HICKORY HILLS

Hickory Hills Woodworkers Club The Hickory Hills Woodworkers Club will hold their next meeting from 7 to 9:30 p.m.

Thursday, March 10 at the Oak View Community Center, 4625 W. 110th St., Oak Lawn.

The meetings include guest speakers, demonstrations, show and tell, raffles and refreshments. Meetings are held on the second Thursday of the month.

OAK LAWN

Film group to view Hitchcock thriller ‘The Lady Vanishes’ CineVerse, the Oak Lawn Park District’s free weekly film discussion group open to anyone age 17 and older, will screen and discuss the classic 1938 Alfred Hitchcock thriller “The Lady Vanishes” from 7 to 10 p.m. Wednesday, March 9 at Oak View Community Center, 4625 W. 110th St., Oak Lawn.

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

Blood drive will be held at Johnson-Phelps VFW Post The annual blood drive will be held from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday, March 26 at the Johnson-Phelps VFW Post 5220, 9514 S. 52nd Ave., Oak Lawn.

To schedule an appointment, contact Lifesource, (877) 543-3768, or go online at lifesource.org. Appointments are recommended.

A donation is suggested.

Visitors need to bring an ID. Residents who donate should stay hydrated before giving blood. All donors will receive a breakfast made by the VFW auxiliary.

Oak Lawn Park District sponsors trip to Jacob Henry Mansion The Oak Lawn Park District will be heading to the Jacob Henry Mansion in Joliet on Tuesday, March 15 for a St. Patrick’s Day celebration.

The event is for guests ages 16 and up.

Individuals will meet at 9:30 a.m. at the Oak View Center, 4625 W. 110th St., Oak Lawn, and are scheduled to return at 4 p.m. The fee is $65 for residents and $75 for non-residents.

Guests will hear Celtic music from “Mulligan Stew.” They will walk through the Jacob Henry Mansion and the Historical Old Central Church. Lunch will be at Aunt Annie’s, which serves award-winning corned beef and cabbage, potatoes and carrots, salad, rolls, dessert, coffee or tea. Vegetarian meals will be made available. A cash bar will be provided.

Pullman tour will be followed with lunch at Hotel Florence The Oak Lawn Park District is planning a trip on Wednesday, April 6 to see America’s first completely planned industrial town founded by George Pullman.

The town held the main assembly plant

for the famous Pullman Sleeper Car. With the aid of visual guides, tour the area along with the well-preserved factory community.

The tour will include a stop at the Pullman Visitors Center, the Hotel Florence, and the on-going restoration of the factory grounds.

Pullman is a Chicago City Landmark District, an Illinois State Historical Site, and a National Historic Landmark District.

Lunch will be included at the Hotel Florence. Sandwich choices are roast beef, baked ham, roast turkey, corned beef and albacore tuna with grilled vegetables, potato salad, coleslaw, brownies and beverage. A short walk is included.

Individuals who plan to attend will meet at 9 a.m. at the Oak View Center, 4625 W. 110th St., Oak Lawn, and are scheduled to return at 4 p.m. The fee is $77 for residents and $87 for non-residents. Participants must be at least 16 years old.

More information about any of the Oak Lawn Park District trips can be obtained by calling (708) 857-2200.

Cedarville U. Brass Choir to perform at OL Bible Church The Cedarville University Brass Choir will perform at 7 p.m. Friday, March 18 at the Oak Lawn Bible Church, 9345 S. 54th Ave. The Cedarville University Brass Choir is an ensemble selected by audition and is comprised of 18 to 22 brass and percussion players. They perform brass literature from all types of music including classical, jazz, pop and Christian.

Admission is free. A “love” offering will be taken. Family and friends are invited to the event. More information can be obtained by calling (708) 857-9800.

Spring, summer children’s clothing resale A Spring/Summer Children’s Clothing and Equipment Resale will take place from 8:30 a.m. to noon Saturday, March 5 in the Southwest Chicago Christian School gym, 10110 S. Central Ave., Oak Lawn.

The fee is $12. Residents can call the school office, (708) 636-8550, to find out how to register by phone. The seller will receive 70 percent of the profit. The school receives the other 30 percent. The sale is cash only. No children will be allowed into the sale. Bags are allowed (no backpacks or closed bags).

Oak Lawn Camera Club plans two meetings for March The Oak Lawn Camera Cub will meet at 7 p.m. Fridays, March 4 and 11, at the Oak View Community Center, 4625 W. 110th St., Oak Lawn.

Competition Night will be held the first Friday of the month. Theme for the upcoming competition on March 4 is “Abstract.”

On March 11, the club will have a program night. Guests can attend the first meeting at no charge. Meetings are held regularly October through April.

Residents who enjoy photography and would like to compete with other photographers from the area can call Betty at (708) 5341912 from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.

Lenten potluck luncheon A Lenten potluck luncheon will be held at 11 a.m. Sunday, March 6 at Pilgrim Faith United Church of Christ, 9411 S. 51st Ave., Oak Lawn. Participants are encouraged to bring a main dish, side dish or desserts to share. Following the lunch, guests will discuss their “Star Words,” a special word each received to reflect on throughout 2016. Each individual will have the opportunity to share what they think God might be saying to them through their word.

Anyone who has not yet received a “Star Word” may contact the church at (708) 4224200 or office@pilgrimfaith.org to obtain one.

The church is handicapped accessible

PALOS HILLS

Breakfast with Easter Bunny and Easter Egg Hunt Breakfast with the Easter Bunny will be held from 10 to 11:15 a.m. Saturday, March 19 at the Palos Community Center, 8455 W. 103rd St., Palos Hills.

After breakfast, an Easter Egg Hunt will be held at 11:30 a.m. at Town Square Park.

Kids should bring their baskets and collect the eggs. Tickets for Breakfast with the Easter Bunny must be purchased in advance. Tickets are $8 per child and $6 for each adult.

Children under 1 year of age with paying adult are free.

No tickets will be sold at the door. The Easter Egg Hunt is free and no registration is necessary. Adults and children can attend the Easter Egg Hunt without attending Breakfast with the Bunny.

The Easter Egg Hunt will be held whether it rains or snows. Parents and children should dress accordingly. More information can be obtained by calling the Palos Community Center, (708) 430-4500.

Answers on Page 10

CROSSWORD PUZZLE

Health and Wellness Fair A Health and Wellness Fair will be held from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Friday, March 11 at the Palos Hills Resource Recreation Department, 8455 W. 103rd St., Palos Hills.

Exhibitors will offer information on Medicare, home health care, veteran’s benefits, fitness, dental care and more. Health screenings and blood pressure screenings will also be offered. Representatives from state offices will also be present to answer questions and the Secretary of State mobile unit will be on-site.

Residents who attend will receive free entry to the raffle with prizes being raffled off. The Health and Wellness Fair is free. For questions or more information, call Sandy DeMoor at (708) 430-4500.

WORTH

Easter Egg Hunt and Lunch with Bunny to be held The Worth Park District’s Annual Easter Egg Hunt will take place beginning at 11:05 a.m. Saturday, March 19 at the Terrace Center in Kennellly Park, 11500 S. Beloit Ave., Worth.

Children should bring their own basket to collect eggs. This is a free community event.

More information can be obtained online at www.worthparkdistrict.org.

Lunch with Bunny will be held from 12:30 to 2 p.m. Saturday, March 19, following the egg hunt. Residents can register for this event, which will be taken until Friday, March 11.

Tickets are $6 for ages 12 and under and $8 for ages 13 and older. More information can be obtained by calling (708) 448-7080 or visit www.worthparkdistrict.org.

Worth Park District hosts Shamrock Search The Shamrock Search for children ages 3 to 8 will be held from noon to 12:45 p.m.

Saturday, March 12 at the Worth Park District at the Terrace Center in Kennelly Park, 11500 S. Beloit Ave.,Worth Registration for kids will be taken up until Friday, March 11. Kids will have an opportunity to spot some lucky shamrocks on this search. More information can be obtained by calling (708) 448-7080 or visit www.worthparkdistrict.org.

Adults and children can enjoy meal at Marrs-Meyer AL Post Residents can enjoy a meal from 1 to 7 p.m. Saturday, March 12 at the Marrs-Meyer American Legion Post 991, 11001 S. Depot Ave., Worth.

The fee is $14 for adults and $7 for children under age 12. Kids under age 3 can eat for free.

ACROSS 1 “Invisible Cities” author Calvino 6 “I ran away from you once. I can’t do it again” speaker 10 Ford Field player 14 Surgery acronym 15 It’s a gas 16 “Snow White” character flaw 17 Forgeries that are easy to spot?

20 By way of 21 French pronoun 22 Habituate 23 Dude in the CIA? 28 Essen’s valley 29 Spotted 30 Slug relative 33 Roll 34 Word after clip or pop 37 Trivial blunder?

42 Colorado native 43 “About his head he wears the winner’s __”: “The Two Noble Kinsmen” 44 Guanaco cousin 45 Beantown athlete 47 Peek follower 49 Pancake cook in pinstripes?

54 Some Highlanders 56 U.N. workers’ agcy.

57 Roasting time in Toulon?

58 “My fireplace is defective!”?

63 “Footloose” co-star Singer 64 Word after “funny” that clarifies its meaning 65 1995 Stallone title role 66 City NNE of Boston 67 Senate Republican leader before Frist 68 Sources of wisdom

DOWN 1 Affectionate text 2 It’s often just inches 3 Syrian leader 4 Full deck Nero wasn’t playing with?

5 Gave a thumbs-up 6 Like some soccer games 7 Pope before Benedict III 8 Plant 9 Taylor of fashion 10 Pressure 11 Finish, as a tat 12 Finished 13 Where to see MMM 18 “Toy Story” character who draws 19 County on the Firth of Forth 24 Composer Satie 25 Gag __ 26 Isaac’s eldest 27 Team whose logo involves a “wishbone C” 30 Mustangs’ sch.

31 Trivial objection 32 One-spot 33 Pan for Yan 34 Recipe words 35 Mojito ingredient 36 Not yet determined, in skeds 38 It’s surrounded by white 39 Game ender 40 Morlock prey 41 Bomb 45 He served between Warren and Herbert 46 Bay State motto starter 47 Like most rafts 48 Rorschach image 49 Ache 50 “__ Men Out”: baseball film 51 Pequod co-owner 52 Chopin’s “Winter Wind,” e.g.

53 Orchestra group 54 Fish feature 55 “Hi, sailor!”

59 Vezina Trophy org.

60 Lao Tzu principle 61 Some pop-ups 62 Brother Answers on Page 7

6 The Reporter

COMMENTARY

THE

Thursday, March 3, 2016

REPORTER

An Independent Newspaper Amy Richards Publisher

Joe Boyle Editor

Published Weekly Founded March 16, 1960

Ray Hanania

No end in sight for Madigan v. Rauner

Presidential politics have gone off the deep end

T

here seems to be no end in sight for the grudge match that is dragging into a ninth month between Gov. Bruce Rauner and House Speaker Michael Madigan (D-22nd). We have heard plenty of comments from the governor and representatives of Madigan explaining their side of the issues.

But the fact remains that we still don’t have a budget. We are not a step closer to a resolution. And if Rauner is correct — and in this instance, he is — there will not be any further discussion from Madigan about the budget until after the Tuesday, March 15 primary.

While Rauner is fixated on his “turnaround agenda,” Madigan wants to keep the House and Senate majority for the Democrats.

That means Madigan has the advantage to stifle any demands by Rauner. While that may be good politics, the rest of the state sits on the sidelines waiting for one of these two leaders to make a move.

Apparently, we will keep waiting until after the primary.

Look, if this was a movie there would be no heroes here. Rauner continues to demand that Democrats accept a major portion of his agenda, which would restrict collective bargaining rights for Illinois workers. That demand has gone nowhere with Democratic legislators who perceive that such an agreement will result in more people losing their jobs or working for less money. That hardly seems to be a remedy for fixing the economy.

While there seems to be no relief in sight, we have seen plenty of news conferences. Rauner has been holding most of them. His latest outburst centers on — who else? — Madigan. The governor accused the House Speaker of manipulating leaders of state universities. Rauner said Monday that Madigan is stalling any efforts to resolve the funding issue at local colleges and universities to use as leverage as the primary approaches.

We don’t know if that’s true or not. However, since this budget stalemate has dragged on this long, it is safe to say nothing is going to happen before the primary. We believe Rauner is making some noise because he is feeling the heat over the monetary issues some of our local colleges and universities are facing.

Chicago State University is not taking a spring break because with no funding coming from the state, the school is running out of money. The university may end the school year sometime in April as funds continue to dissolve. And as we have reported earlier, Eastern Illinois University in Charleston and Western Illinois University in Macomb are reducing the staff of instructors.

In last week’s issue, we had a story about the Monetary Awards Program, or MAP grants, for college students that are also a victim of this budget deadlock. State Rep. Kelly Burke (D-36th), with the assistance of state senators, had introduced one bill to reestablish the MAP grants. That bill was vetoed by the governor. Burke and others adjusted the bill again but Rauner vetoed it a second time within a month.

Burke’s response was that she will go back to Springfield and talk to Democratic and Republican legislators to come up with ideas. The biggest difficulty with Rauner is the collective bargaining issue. Critics of Madigan point to his insistence on maintaining control of the House at all costs.

We believe something can be done if these two leaders can bend a little. Rauner has to compromise on the collective bargaining issue, while Madigan may have to provide the governor with something he can show his supporters.

Democrats and Republicans are trying to come up with ideas to end this impasse. Politics eventually must take a back seat.

Oak Lawn considers publishing monthly newspaper The Oak Lawn Village Board is discussing the possibility of publishing a monthly newspaper that would strive to inform residents on what is happening in the community and keep them up to date with activities and programs in the community.

We wish them luck. Speaking with some knowledge on the subject, putting out a weekly newspaper is difficult. But it’s even more difficult in an era when starting up a newspaper is costly. Most publishers and investors who work for community newspapers will tell you that the challenges are enormous.

Publishers are in competition with the Internet and social media platforms. Many people don’t even pick up a newspaper anymore.

Some residents get their news browsing through websites and other online publications.

Obviously, we are biased. We think people should take the time to pick up daily newspapers and community newspapers. Downtown daily newspapers should be providing news from Chicago along with some national headlines. Community newspapers will focus on some of those stories but will include a local angle. We all know something about the current budget impasse, and daily newspapers will provide the latest comments from Gov. Bruce Rauner and House Speaker Michael Madigan (D-22nd).

However, community newspapers will feature stories on how the budget impasse affects us locally. How is Moraine Valley Community College in Palos Hills coping with zero funding from the state?

We bring that up because we had a story on how Moraine is dealing with the budget stalemate in our Feb. 18 issue.

But we also have stories paying tribute to our local heroes. We had a story with photos on the dedication of an ice rink that is now named in memory of Daniel V. Capuano. The 42-year-old part-time Evergreen Park firefighter and Chicago firefighter died in a blaze on the city’s Southeast Side in December. He left a wife and three children and coached St. Jude hockey teams. The renaming of the ice rink in Evergreen Park was a fitting honor for the fallen firefighter.

These are the type of stories that community newspapers focus on. While we bring you news from our communities that residents need to be informed about, we also feature news on achieving students at local schools. Our sports section features coverage of local high school and college teams.

The best advice we can give Oak Lawn is to concentrate on news about the village and the programs that are offered. We believe that our newspaper already covers Oak Lawn extensively. We cover the village board meetings that are usually held twice a month. We also recently covered the “State of the Village” address given by Oak Lawn Mayor Sandra Bury and sponsored by the Oak Lawn Chamber of Commerce.

The Oak Lawn Park District and Oak Lawn Library already do a fine job of sending us information on upcoming activities. We welcome residents to call us or send emails to thereporter@comcast. net about stories you would like to see covered.

Other villages have published monthly newspapers. Oak Lawn apparently is looking at ideas from John Fanning, owner of Crestwoodbased Fanning Communications. We imagine the Oak Lawn Board will have more questions before deciding whether to get into the newspaper publishing business.

Board members should be asking to find out how this project is going to be financed and who is going to produce copy for a 20-page publication every month. The Board might find out that it has to be patient when it comes to turning a profit, especially if it is attempting 60 percent news coverage and 40 percent advertising.

Putting out an edition is one thing. Determining if Oak Lawn can do this every month is the real challenge.

I Primary race has this skeptic still trying to decide

By Don C. White I would not normally be ready for another “Rambling of a Skeptic” piece so soon but this primary season has me stirred up. My article about looking for another Lincoln is just a reoccurring dream that I have. I know that won’t happen.

There is no one on either side who could measure up to Lincoln. I have only watched a few minutes of some of the debates but from what I hear and read it would have been a waste of my time. It makes no sense to me that both sides continue bashing their primary opponents and then when the primaries are over, those that lose are supposed to come to the aid of the party and support the chosen one.

“We the people” can never figure out for sure what the primary winners stand for.

This year it seems whoever he or she is will not necessarily be the best candidate to be on the ballot.

I recently gave a talk on “Remembering Our Presidents.” During my research for the talk it was fascinating to learn something about each of the 43 men who have held the highest office in the land. Were all of them the best the party had to put forward?

Did they all do the best they could for the nation? How many of them – especially the accidental ones – had what it took to get the job done? Some of them even said they were in over their heads.

A book that I just read, “A Respectable Minority” (“The Democratic party in the Civil War Era, 1860-1868”), gives a good picture of how the game of politics was played back then.

And you know what? It was not much different from today. (Only the money being spent to get elected is much different.)

Remember, the Republican Party came into being during the mid-1850’s.They took a position that the Democrats were ignoring them and used it to stir up the country. In the process, this caused the Southern states to take the most drastic action they could by trying to break up the Union, which they almost accomplished.

Let’s turn back to current politics. Pope Francis questioned whether or not Donald Trump is a Christian because he wants to build a wall instead of a bridge on the border of Mexico. From what I hear, everyone is backpedaling on the dilemma the pope’s response to a reporter’s question caused. I

do believe the Vatican has a wall around it.

This is not the first time that a religious person questioned the Christianity of someone running for public office. Back in 1846, when Lincoln was running for a seat in the U.S. House of Representatives, his opponent, a traveling preacher by the name of Peter Cartwright, made a similar charge against Mr. Lincoln.

Of course, Mr. Lincoln did much the same as Mr. Trump and took umbrage to this charge. As you may know, Mr. Lincoln never became a member of any church. I do believe though that he was a Christian man even though some historians still question if he was. I know that he read and studied the Bible and attended church some of the time. He also prayed for guidance during his life time and especially during the Civil War. Then, as now, our elected officials and those that are trying to get elected talk out of both sides of their mouths. Then as now it is hard to know which ones to put our trust in and to believe that they will be the ones to best do the people’s work. Both sides have candidates with baggage that should disqualify them from ever running for or holding public office. But as we know, money talks and opens doors that would never be opened to the average Joe or Jane. That’s the way it is and nothing or no one is going to change it.

Even in our great state of Illinois we have two people in high office who have money and power who are used to getting things done -- in their way. One of them has been in his position of power for many years. The other has recently been elected (I believe with a mandate) from “We the people” to try and turn the tide as the state continues its downward spiral. At the present time the question is: how low can we go?

Be it state or national elections this year, a lot is at stake and the best thing all of us could do is to be ready to cast our votes.

Just about everyone that is running for office will tell you they have the solutions to all of our problems. We all know or should know by now that just is not true.

The primary is fast approaching and I still don’t know who to vote for, but you better believe I will vote.

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

Donald Trump is not Barack Obama

By Glenn Mollette Lots of comments are flying about Donald Trump’s vocabulary. Some of the conversation has been about his lack of vocabulary.

Others have pointed out that he is uncouth and crude in his speech. Others have noted that Trump tells it like it is, holding nothing back, saying whatever comes to his mind or speaking from his heart. Some on social media have commented they don’t want a president who cannot communicate more articulately or smoother than what Trump does.

I have to note that we have a smooth president by the name of Barack Obama.

I personally think that he uses the teleprompter as well as anybody I’ve ever seen.

Or, when he has time to master his content he can release his words in a very convincing manner. I don’t see that there is much debate on our current president’s ability to deliver a high powered speech. On the other hand, we’ve all heard the president at press conferences “hem and hah,” searching for the right words to say when answering a question or speaking impromptu.

On July 27, 2004, then U.S. Senator Obama delivered the keynote speech at the Democratic convention in Boston. On that Tuesday evening, he spoke masterfully. He delivered a rousing speech that was smooth, powerful, convincing and elevated his status as the new rising star in the Democratic convention. At that time, I said to several people that Barack Obama was on his way to being president of the United States and I was right.

Almost 12 years later not as many Americans are overly impressed with our president. Many hate Obamacare. Some feel Obama loves Muslims more than Christians.

Others see Obama leading the charge to take guns away from everyday Americans.

Others feel that he has mistreated Israel and the list goes on and on. Some of these same people who dislike President Obama are now criticizing Trump for his inability to deliver the kind of speech that we would have heard from John Kennedy, Ronald Reagan or our current president.

Donald Trump is Donald Trump. If he makes it he will not be a slick podium orator. He will most likely say what he is thinking and probably do it without a teleprompter. Often when a speech is delivered unwritten or without the aid of a teleprompter it will come across as unprepared.

Whether we like it or not, this is another reason why Trump has done so well. He is not the typical polished, political statesman and that chaffs some people, but millions more love it.

We will not get everything we want in one human being. Everybody is different.

Obama is a suave, fit, articulate man who has done what few will ever accomplish.

He became president of the United States.

Trump is not Barack Obama or similar to anybody we’ve elected in recent years. Because of that, he may very well win.

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

We want to hear from you Letters should be 350 words or less. Letters must be signed and the name of the writer will be published. Writers must also include their address and telephone number for verification, but that information will not be published and will remain otherwise confidential. Mail letters to the editor to The Reporter, 12247 S. Harlem Ave., Palos Heights, IL 60463 or e-mail us at thereporter@comcast.net

’ve never seen more people who are running for president lie more than this year’s crop of presidential contenders, in both parties.

It’s amazing that the candidates for president will say and do anything to get votes. That’s sad on so many levels, but most importantly, the election “noise” is taking valuable time from real issues that need to be addressed.

Take the Republican contest, please!

Now, I don’t like everything Donald Trump says. I dislike his broad and somewhat racist swipes at Mexicans and Muslims. He wants to ban all Muslims from entering the United States and all Mexicans who do it “illegally.”

There is something to both issues, of course. Terrorists, murderers and killers are coming in from the Middle East and from Mexico, sneaking in with the many desperate and innocent people seeking sanctuary from their country’s troubles.

But not all of the people coming into America from Mexico or Muslim countries are terrorists, drug dealers or killers. Some are, unfortunately.

There is a substantive way to address that issue, but sadly, it’s not being addressed by any of the candidates.

What do Senators Ted Cruz and Marco Rubio have to say about all that? They’re crazy, too.

Rubio is desperate to get votes and stay in the election contest. This week he accused Trump of failing to denounce David Duke, the notorious anti-black racist. David Duke?

It’s such an obvious election stunt. Who cares about David Duke? More importantly, why is Marco Rubio paying attention to David Duke and racist haters in the first place?

Turns out Rubio is one of the most racist people in the U.S. Senate. Rubio is Cuban American and he grew up watching his wealthy parents complain about Communist dictator Fidel Castro, who took away all of their wealth and privileges.

Now, I am no big fan of Fidel Castro. The guy was a tyrant and killer. But, the government that ran Cuba before Castro was so corrupt and the class racism in Cuba was so horrible that it made it easy for a “revolutionary” like Castro and Che Guevara to rise up and violently take over the country.

Maybe Rubio should talk about how the anti-Castro forces were cozying up to the Mafia and organized crime money when his parents were there to build casinos for the wealthy and exploit the poor?

Ted Cruz is a nut job, too.

This guy is insane. I can’t even imagine him being president of the United States. He is so way out there when it comes to basic issues.

The Democrats are sidelined as the GOP circus rages. Hillary Clinton, however, is not as popular as she was eight years ago. Her message is unclear. I have no idea what she really stands for.

Senator Bernie Sanders seems to be appealing to many Democrats with his hardcore liberal and progressive views.

But despite the votes, Clinton is using the system to lock in the Super Delegates to “steal” the nomination from the people.

What kind of democracy is this, people? No wonder the vast majority of Americans are fed up and disgusted with elections and don’t vote.

Personally, I like Sanders and I like Trump. As a non-politician business person, I think Trump steps in it a lot with his shoot-from-the-hip rhetoric. But I always favor the underdog, anyway. And a Sanders-Trump battle would be fascinating to see.

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

Thursday, March 3, 2016

The Reporter

7

Time has indicated that patients need CoQ10 to maintain health

A

bout 12 years ago, I wrote of how alternative physicians were warning patients who were taking cholesterol drugs about the importance of augmenting those statin drugs by supplementing with Coenzyme Q10.

Those alternative physicians were basing their urgency on the fact that statin cholesterol drugs, while stopping the liver from producing cholesterol, were also halting the production of coenzyme Q10, which supports mitochondrial energy function. It’s also important to note, that back then, most physicians did not accept the premise of the need for CoQ10; some calling it junk sciences. Well, today, most physicians totally accept that patients need CoQ10.

CoQ10 is found in all human cells. The highest concentrations are found in the heart, liver, kidneys and pancreas; organs that possess the most metabolically active cells. It is found in tremendous amounts

in the cells of the immune system. Although it is found in nuts, peanuts and walnuts as well as oily fish (that I can’t eat), it is difficult to obtain enough to replace the shortfall both age and statin drugs create. Once we reach the age of 40, our own production of CoQ10 begins to drop dramatically. So, those who take statin drugs and are over the age of 50 are getting the double whammy of CoQ10 loss.

After I wrote the first article, it was discovered the most bio-available form of CoQ10 was known as “ubiquinol.” You see ads on TV for products containing ubiquinol.

Another amazing aspect of CoQ10 in ubiquinol form was discovered by the National Cancer Institute to help protect the heart from the cancer drug Doxorubicin. Additionally, yet another study by the National Cancer Institute (NCI) was found to have shown this

wonderful enzyme as helping cancer patients. The study in about 2008 or 2009 was conducted among patients with melanoma and breast cancer. In the melanoma study, the NCI compared the effect of administering alpha interferon with or without daily CoQ10 in large doses (400 mg.).

As reported in the September 2015 issue of “Life Extension Magazine,” “there was an astounding 10-fold lower risk of metastasis in the CoQ10-supplemented group! This effect was even more pronounced for those with more advanced melanoma, where supplemented patients

were 13 times less likely to develop metastasis, according to the publication.

Additionally, patients with kidney disease on dialysis were found to have improved and need less dialysis when augmented with CoQ10.

In 2009, the magazine reported cancer patients were found to have exceedingly low levels of CoQ10 in their blood. That is what precipitated the studies.

Human trials were called for but the National Cancer Institute cited costs as the reason for not conducting the trials.

Other smaller studies were conducted that found the ubiquinol form of CoQ10 was helpful with multiple sclerosis, ALS and muscular disorders as well as neurological disorders.

While no one should take the high doses without the advice and under the observation of his/her physician, alternative physicians believe there is plenty of reason to take smaller doses when

LIBRARY HAPPENINGS OAK LAWN

Celebrate Women’s History Month A variety of programs and movie screenings will be held in March to mark Women’s History Month at the Oak Lawn Library, 9427 S. Raymond Ave. “Hell Hath No Fury: The Wild, Wonderful & Wicked Women of the Windy City” will be held at 7 p.m. Monday, March 7. For every male giant who trod Chicago’s streets, there was a feminine counterpart who was equally impressive. Join entertainer/historian/storyteller Clarence Goodman for virtual tour of how the other half has lived.

“The Mystery of Living: Packing for Syria with Agatha Christie” will be held at 7 p.m.

Wednesday, March 16 at the Oak Lawn Library. Betsey Means, from WomanLore, brings to life author Agatha Christie, the prolific English “Queen of Crime.”

This one-woman theatrical performance is adapted from personal writings and complete with authentic costumes and designs!

The 2014 film “She’s Beautiful When She’s Angry will be screened at 7 p.m. today (Thursday, March 3) at the Oak Lawn Library. The documentary resurrects the history of brilliant women who founded the modern women’s movement from 1966 to 1971. The film runs 92 minutes.

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

Session for teen students preparing for financial aid to college Lawyers from the Chicago CARE Program will help teens prepare for student loans and financial aid from 7 to 8:30 p.m.

Wednesday, March 16 at the Oak Lawn Library. For more information about this and other adult and young adult programs, call (708) 422-4990 or visit www.olpl.org.

History of Oak Lawn is offered through library The Oak Lawn Public Library’s Local History online database (http://olpl.pastperfectonline.com/ search) now has more than 10,000 searchable items including photographs, documents and artifacts.

Take a look around this resource for Oak Lawn’s history.

For more information about Local History, call (708) 422-4990 or visit www.olpl.org.

History of railroads in Oak Lawn The new gallery exhibit, “Full Steam Ahead: The Railroad in

Oak Lawn,” debuts Saturday, March 5 at the Oak Lawn Library.

Since 1881, rail service has given Oak Lawn travelers the opportunity to venture beyond the village while also bringing in visitors and commerce. Featuring nearly 40 unique images, the new display will be available for viewing in the second floor Local History Room. For more information about local history, call (708) 422-4990 or visit www. olpl.org.

Book discussion on ‘The 5th Wave’ A discussion on the book “The 5th Wave” by Rick Yancey will be held from 7 to 8:30 p.m. Wednesday, March 23 at the Oak Lawn Library.

This event is for teens in grades nine through 12. For more information about this and other young adult programs, call (708) 422-4990 or visit www.olpl.org.

Teen Tech Week Teen Tech Week will be celebrated Sunday, March 6 through Saturday, March 12 in the Teen Room at the Oak Lawn Library, 9427 S. Raymond Ave. Teens will work on projects such as 3D printing, vinyl cutting, button making and more.

The program is open to teens in grades nine through 12. More information can be obtained by calling (708) 422-4990 or visit www.olpl.org.

Kids can ‘Shimmy and Shake’ at library A program entitled “Shimmy and Shake” for children ages 5 to 7 will be held from 3:45 to 4:30 p.m. Thursday, March 10 at the Oak Lawn Library. Library staff will read books and sing songs to get the youngsters moving.

Registration is not required. For more information about this and other youth programs, call (70) 422-4990 or visit www.olpl.org.

upbeat concert to be held at 6 p.m.

Thursday, March 17 at the Green Hills Library, 8611 W. 103rd St., Palos Hills.

Parents and children alike can get up dance. Registration is limited to 90. All ages are welcome.

Register online at greenhillslibrary.org.

‘The Good Dinosaur’ is next Family Movie “The Good Dinosaur” will be the next Family Movie Time to be held at 4:30 p.m. Friday, March 11 at the Green Hills Library. The family is welcome to attend the free movie. Popcorn and juice will be available for the guests.

Preschool Dance Party to be held at library The Preschool Dance Party will be held at 11 a.m. Friday, March 11 at the Green Hills Library. Preschool children are encouraged to attend the event. Kids can dance to songs that will be played. All ages are welcome to the event.

Pokémon Club to meet

The Pokemon Club will meet at 6 p.m. Wednesday, March 16 at the Green Hills Library. Pokemon fans can bring their Nintendo DS, games, trading cards, books and anything else they would like to share and discuss. All ages are welcome.

Wii Gaming to be held Wil Gaming will be held for ages 5 and up from 3 to 5 p.m.

Monday, March 7 at the Green Hills Library. Guests can challenge their friends in Super Smash Brothers Brawl in the Teen Center.

Painting workshop to focus on spring flowers

Spring flowers will be the inspiration for a hands-on workshop

beginning at 6:30 p.m. Monday, March 28 at the Green Hills Library.

Christine Thornton will be the instructor for the program. She will advise participants to choose a flower to draw on watercolor paper. Individuals will learn to paint with watercolor pencils.

Registration is limited to 30.

The workshop is for adults only. Register online at greenhillslibrary.org.

Simple spring meals are offered at library Simple spring meals will be discussed and presented to patrons during a session that begins at 6:30 p.m. Monday, March 14 at the Green Hills Library.

Chef Maddox will demonstrate a menu of spring asparagus and trio of mushroom strudel, chicken Provence style, and lemon curd tart with caramelized Italian meringue. Samples will be provided.

Registration is limited to 50. This event is for adults only. Register online at greenhillslibrary.org.

WORTH

Celebrating Golden Age of Radio at library A program titled “A Beginner’s Guide to the Golden Age of Radio” will be presented at 7 p.m.

Monday, March 21 at the Worth Public Library District, 6917 W. 111th St. Steve Darnall will present the program. He is the host of the radio show “Those Were the Days” on WDCB 90.9FM. He will tell stories and have sound clips of some of the biggest stars and shows of early radio, including Jack Benny, Bob Hope, Amos and Andy, and the Shadow.

taking statin drugs or if one is over the age of 40.

We should have wide-spread studies, but somehow the funding is not there.

However, the funding is available to study teaching mountain lions to ride a treadmill ($856,000) and studying the gambling habits of monkeys. Gosh, I never knew there was a casino at the zoo and creating a video game on climate change. And there is tweeting at terrorists ($3 million) and testing the reaction of monkeys to the effects of cocaine.

Even considering these marvelous trials, there is not a great deal of excitement in the medical community about taking CoQ10. Talk to your physician about supplementing with this wonder worker; especially if you are over the age of 40.

Dee Woods can be reached at deewoods10Aicloud.com

Hurley will host tech resource event for seniors State Rep. Fran Hurley (D35th) is inviting residents to join her for a “Senior Tech Tuesday” from 9 to 11 a.m. March 8 at her district office, 10402 S. Western Ave., Chicago.

Seniors will receive guidance and individual instruction utilizing the resources available through their smartphones and tablets.

“Personal and financial business have become much more accessible as a result of the recent developments of technology, but

that access is only as valuable as the user’s understanding of these tools,” Hurley said. “If you or a family member needs help learning to use your smartphone or tablet, please call my office to reserve some time for my staff to help you learn to use to utilize this resource.”

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

DEATH NOTICES Stephen Casey Stephen J. Casey, 44, a former Hickory Hills resident, died Sunday at Loyola Medical Center.

Mr. Casey received an associate’s degree.

Survivors include his husband, Patrick Ferguson; stepdaughter, Meghan Ferguson; stepson, Ryan Ferguson; father, James Casey; and uncle, Michael Casey.

Visitation is from 3 to 9 p.m. Friday, March 4 at Zarzycki Manor Chapels, Ltd., 8999 S. Archer Ave., Willow Springs. Services will be held at 9 a.m. Saturday, March 5 from the funeral home to Lyons Congregational United Church of Christ, 6871 Joliet Road, Indian Head Park, for 10 a.m. Mass. Interment will follow at Holy Sepulchre Cemetery.

Jeanette Hansen Jeanette Hansen (nee Molenstra), 92, a longtime Oak Lawn resident, died Feb. 25 at St. James Hospital in Chicago Heights.

Mrs. Hansen was a homemaker. She was born on the family farm on the site where the current Advocate Christ Medical Center is in Oak Lawn.

Survivors include daughters, Bonnie Grace and Joyce Seidel; sister, Grace Muszynski; brother, Eugene Molenstra; five grandchildren; 10 great-grandchildren; and five great-great grandchildren.

Family and friends will gather beginning at 10 a.m. today (Thursday, March 3) at Schmaedeke Funeral Home, 10701 S. Harlem Ave., Worth. A memorial service will follow at noon at the funeral home.

Interment will take place at Chapel Hill Gardens South Cemetery.

Sensory Storytime for children and adults Children of all abilities and their siblings are invited to take part in the Sensory Storytime program filled with stories, music, rhymes and playtime from 10 to 10:45 a.m. Saturday, March 12 at the Oak Lawn Library. Registration is not required. More information can be obtained by calling (708) 422-4990 or visit www.olpl.org.

PALOS HILLS

‘Ralph’s World’ offers night of fun, dancing Patrons can sing and dance with Ralph from “Ralph’s World” in an

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Richards to host free Family Fun Night The student council from Richards High School will host the fourth annual Family Fun Night from 4:30 to 7 p.m. on Friday, March 11 at the school, 10601 S. Central Ave., Oak Lawn.

The fair has been designed for families with children from pre-kindergarten through third

grade. Admission is free to the fair.

Activities include fun science projects such as making oobleck (the clay-like substance from the Dr. Seuss book “Bartholomew and the Oobleck.”) The fair also features face painting, arts and crafts, games, prizes and snacks.

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8 The Reporter

CONSUMER NEWS

‘Cost Basis’ can affect investment strategy

COMINGS & GOINGS

Sports Authority is expected to close three stores in south suburbs

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ccording to employees, sports retailer Sports Authority is preparing to close three south suburban stores as part of a major reorganization aimed at keeping the struggling company afloat.

Employees said they had been informed that the Sports Authority store at 4832 LinBob coln Highway in Matteson Bong and 1510 Torrence Ave. in Calumet City would be closing though no timetable had been announced.

Employees at the Orland Hills store at 9231 W. 159th St. said nothing was official, but they had been told to expect the store to be among those closed by the retailer.

Employees at the Frankfort store at 11185 Lincoln Highway, Oak Lawn store at 9633 S. Cicero Ave., North Riverside store at 1800 Harlem Ave. and Burbank store at 7720 S. Cicero Ave. said they were aware of the Matteson, Orland and Cal City closings, but added that their stores were not in danger of being shuttered.

They also said the Water Tower place location in downtown Chicago would be closing.

There were conflicting reports about the store in Joliet.

Employees at other stores said the Joliet store was among those slated for closing, but employees there said it would not be among the stores closing.

A call to the Colorado head office of Sports Authority was not returned.

The Village of Matteson posted on its Facebook page that staffers had been notified of the closing of the store at Matteson Square shopping center. The village said a liquidation sale would precede the

closing, which might come as early as March.

A manager at the Cal City store said that location would act as a clearance outlet for merchandise from other stores and would not be closing immediately.

Many of the Sports Authority locations including Matteson, Calumet City, North Riverside and Oak Lawn were originally Sportsmart stores before that chain was acquired in a 1998 merger.

The chain is reportedly preparing to close at least 140 of its 450 stores.

Old Country Buffet closes in Tinley Park The Old Country Buffet in the Park Center Plaza at 159th Street and Harlem Avenue in Tinley Park closed abruptly recently. There is a sign taped to the front door announcing the closing. It doesn’t give a reason for the closing but does thank customers for their business.

The only remaining Old Country Buffet is the one at 7601 S. Cicero Ave. near Ford City Mall on Chicago’s Southwest Side.

Holistic healing center opens in Oak Lawn The Journey to Wholeness Center at 9501 S. New England Ave. in Oak Lawn is a holistic healing and wellness center that offers Yoga Classes, Dance, Massage Therapy, Life Coaches, Empowerment Workshops, Personal Counselors and Intuitive Healers, which specialize in Emotional Clearing, EFT, Reiki, Akashic Readings, Angel Therapy and more.

There is also an onsite bookstore and gift shop.

There will be a grand opening celebration from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 27, and again from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Sunday, Feb. 28. There will be guided tours, guests will meet

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Photo by Bob Bong

Sports Authority will close three south suburban stores, including the store pictured above in Matteson.

practitioners, a raffle for free services, appetizers and beverages. The first 20 visitors each day will receive door prizes.

Call or visit the center or website to schedule an appointment, sign up for a Yoga class or visit the bookstore.

For more information, call (708) 634-3664 or visit www. journeytowholeness.org.

Bridgeview Menards to start hiring Menards will begin hiring for its new store in Bridgeview from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. March 2 through March 12.

The Wisconsin-based retailer is looking for both full-time and part-time workers for a variety of positions at the store at 9140 S. Harlem Ave. Anyone who stops by to fill out an application will receive an interview at the new store, said spokesman Jeff Abbott.

He said there was no opening date yet for the new store, which is replacing an older store that closed about a year ago.

Credit union donates to local communities The Great Lakes Credit Union Board of Directors has adopted an extraordinary plan to give back to the communities it serves.

The credit union has announced that it is donating $39,000 in support of 13 organizations located within the communities of their branches throughout Lake, McHenry,

Cook, DuPage, and Will counties in Illinois.

The branch managers of each location were asked to help the board choose a local charity to donate $3,000 on behalf of GLCU. On Jan. 14, Jim Fabrie, credit union board chairman, presented to Brendan McCormick, Executive Director of the Good Shepherd Center, a check for $3,000. The Good Shepherd Center provides community support, education, and services for families with or without disabilities in and around Hazel Crest Other organizations benefitting from this initiative include: the Ronald McDonald House in Oak Lawn and Village of Willow Springs Veterans and Family Relief Fund.

GLCU has more than 72,000 members and more than $700 million in assets. The credit union is headquartered in Bannockburn, and has 14 branches located in Antioch, Bolingbrook, Chicago, Country Club Hills, Crystal Lake, Gurnee, Naperville, North Chicago, Oak Lawn, Round Lake Beach, Waukegan, Woodstock, Willow Springs and Zion.

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

Lipinski bill targeting fraud by foreign companies has become law Cong. Dan Lipinski (D-3rd) said a bill he introduced will crack down on foreign companies cheating Americans by illegally avoiding customs duties has become law.

President Obama signed the comprehensive reforms bill, HR 644, which includes Lipinski’s Customs Training Enhancement Act, HR 2015, last week.

The provision organizes companies and trade groups sharing information with U.S Customs and Border Protection, enabling the government to do a better job of identifying schemes that schemes that cheat American taxpayers by importing foreign goods without paying duties.

Lipinski said that it will help American

manufacturers grow their business and add jobs, while also collecting hundreds of millions of dollars owed to American taxpayers for infractions of U.S. laws.

“America’s manufacturing workers and taxpayers have been taken advantage of for too long by foreign companies that break our trade laws and evade Customs enforcement,” said Lipinski. “My bill will help level the playing field so American manufacturers have a fairer shot against their foreign competitors. Cheating by foreign firms has become more widespread at a time when American employers and workers are already hurting. Allowing impacted industries to provide Customs agents with the critical

intelligence they need to spot cheaters is just common sense.”

Under Lipinski’s provision, Customs and Border Protection would be required to seek out companies and trade groups that have information that can identify misrepresented shipments. That information, in turn, would be shared directly with customs agents working on the front lines.

The Customs Training Enhancement Act is modeled on a program forged between the steel industry and Customs and Border Protection in which company and industry officials have taught Customs agents how to spot products that have been deliberately mislabeled.

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Thursday, March 3, 2016

than is necessary. ow that it’s And we’ve just Tax Season, looked at one isolated you may want example. If you were to pay close attention to under-report the to every part of your size of your cost basis financial picture, on all your investbecause it’s imporments when you sell tant to understand them, you could end the factors that affect your taxes. One area up paying far more Scott to be aware of is the Johnson in capital gains taxes “cost basis” of your than is actually necessary. investments.

Fortunately, you probably Cost basis, also known don’t have to worry about as “tax basis,” is essentially constantly calculating cost your investment in a financial asset, such as a stock. basis on your own; if you’re Your cost basis is generally investing with a financial the amount you will use to advisor, he or she will likely determine your taxable profit provide you with statements or loss when you sell the that include these calculations. investment.

Still, your knowledge of Let’s look at an example. cost basis is important. For Suppose you bought 50 one thing, you can choose shares of XYZ stock for which particular shares of $1,000 several years ago. an investment to sell first.

Now you decide to sell your In the above example, we shares and use the proceeds looked at what might happen for a different investment, if you bought shares at one which you think will help further diversify your portfo- time and then sold the same lio. (Keep in mind that while shares a few years later. diversification can reduce the But if you purchase shares impact of volatility on your of the same investment at holdings, it can’t guarantee a different times, you are almost profit or protect against loss.) certainly buying them at Your shares are now worth different prices — and these $1,500, so you will have a differences in price will affect $500 gain — but will you be your cost basis when you sell. taxed on all of it?

So your decision on which To answer that question, shares to sell first — as expressed in different accounting you’ll need to review what methods, such as “first in, first has transpired with your out” (FIFO) or “last in, first investment since you bought out” (LIFO) — can be more, it. You know that the value or less, beneficial to your tax has gone up $500, but let’s situation. Your tax professional also assume that, during the can help you make the right last few years, you received choices. $150 in dividends and you By learning the basics of reinvested the entire amount cost basis, you will become into your shares of XYZ a more informed investor — stock. Your adjusted cost basis would increase to $1,150, and you can help potentially rather than the original purminimize your tax burden. chase price of $1,000. Since your sale price is $1,500, your Scott Johnson, CFP., is a fitaxable gain would actually nancial advisor with Edward only be $350 ($1,500 minus Jones, 8146 W. 111th St., Palos Hills, (708) 974-1965. $1,150), rather than $500.

Edward Jones does not proConsequently, if you were to report your cost basis as vide legal advice. This article $1,000 — your original purwas written by Edward Jones chase price — you’ll end up for use by your local Edward paying taxes on a bigger gain Jones financial advisor.

Crafters Showcase opens in Oak Lawn A new store has opened in Oak Lawn that features American crafting handmade items from Illinois Crafters Showcase, 5730 W. 95th St., Oak Lawn, features over 100 crafters and vendors.

The hours are from 10 a.m. to

6 p.m. Mondays, Tuesdays and Wednesdays, and noon to 7 p.m.

Thursdays.

The store is also open from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Fridays and 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Saturdays. More information can be obtained by calling (708) 557-8753.

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 Chomycia Greg E to Komenda Michael C, 10536 S Oak Park Ave, $152,500; Bartlomiejczuk Paulina to Carollo Santo J, 11000 Lombard Ave, $172,000; Wisniewski John Extr to Calderon Rosa, 10819 S Menard Ave, $140,000; Heldak Piotr to Bednarczyk Krystyna, 10602 Oxford Ave, $85,000.

Evergreen Park Byrne Joseph M to Campos Bladimir, 9320 S Richmond Ave, $150,000; Sarafin Joyce M to Bachler Donald Jr, 3049 W 100th St, $177,000; Dempsey Dennisi T to Stevens Bonnie, 9838 S Springfield Ave, $212,500; Fannie Mae to Alliance Revitalized Comm LLC, 9158 S Richmond Ave, $133,500; Graffy Paul D Tr to Brack Jesse L Jr, 9155 S Spaulding Ave, $166,500.

Oak Lawn Fannie Mae to Kamanga Zacharia, 9818 Karlov Ave, Unit #9818D, $72,000; Fannie Mae to Arc Neighborhoods LLC, 10413 Linder Ave, $165,000; Miller Mark A Jr to Chavez Ludys B, 9740 Pulaski Rd, Unit #9740405, $58,000; Swigart Paul D to Salih Nabeel M, 10401 Mason Ave, Unit #2E, $52,000; Bak Laura F to Meraz-Caliz Irma Angelica, 4827 109th St, Unit #7101, $72,000; Boyle Enterprises Inc to Stock Maria, 10549 S Parkside Ave, $510,000; Judicial Sales Corp to Cirrus Inv Grp LLC, 5701 W 89th Pl, $60,000; J B Lor-Rin Inc to Brouwer Dawn R, 10340 Mayfield Ave, Unit #202, $71,000; Jonkman Harold to Ostergren Laura, 9537 S Mcvicker Ave, $108,000; Davis Roosevelt to Cota Margaret, 10330 S Komensky Ave, Unit #10330B, $47,000; Hilger Mary Lee to Whicher Bruce, 9422 54th Ct, $100,000; Kane Kevin J to Rodriguez Ma, 5012

Oak Center Dr, $177,500; Marquette Bk to Sikon Tomasz, 9814 Merton Ave, $160,000; Wuchter Matthew E to Zurawski Gregory, 6733 W 89th Pl, $259,000; Chicago Title Land Trust Co Tr to Vargas Thomas J, 9724 Menard Ave, $215,000.

Palos Hills Rapacz Dorothy to Direct Way Trucking Inc, 4 Cinnamon Creek Dr, Unit #42N, $119,000; Marquette Bk Tr to Bartosiewicz Lois, 8202 W 111th St, Unit #11C, $101,000; Lutvinas Antanas to Pope Christopher

G, 14 Cour Saint Tropez, $138,500; Silhan Phyllis Tr to Rice James E, 8220 Mulberry Ct, Unit #7A, $148,500.

Worth JPMorgan Chase Bk to Weivoda Harlan, 7318 W 114th Pl, $45,000; Serratore Carol M to Villarreal Luis R, 7425 W 108th Pl, $175,000; M&T Bk to Gjadla Monika, 7107 W 114th Pl, $85,500; Bailey Keith G to Winkleman Camille T, 6913 W 114th St, $154,000; Bailey Keith to Sinclair Melissa A, 11600 S Neenah Ave, $120,000.

Mortgage Rates Around the Area First Midwest Bank (as of Feb. 29) 30-year fi ed

RATES 3.875

APR 3.910

POINTS 0

15-year fi ed

3.125

3.180

0

30-year fi ed Jumbo

3.875

3.920

0

United Trust Bank (as of Feb. 29) 30-year fi ed

RATES 3.625

APR 3.645

POINTS 0

15-year fi ed

2.990

3.026

0

10-year fi ed

2.875

2.927

0

Prospect Federal (as of Feb. 29) 30-year fi ed

RATES 3.625

APR 3.673

POINTS .25

20-year fi ed

3.375

3.442

.25

15-year fi ed

3.000

3.067

.25

All rates subject to change daily. Equal opportunity lenders.

Thursday, March 3, 2016

The Reporter

9

HEALTHY ANSWERS FOR LIFE

There’s new help for those with diabetes and high cholesterol Q: I’ve read a couple articles recently about the supplement berberine for type 2 diabetes and high cholesterol- two problems I have. The things I’ve read sound almost too good to be true. I wanted to see if you had information about berberine and diabetes, since I don’t want to buy something that doesn’t really work.

A: Berberine is a little known supplement that has been gaining popularity for its impressive benefits for diabetics as well as people dealing with high cholesterol. Berberine has been touted lately as a wonder supplement, but I’m happy to report that the science actually does back up the hype around berberine, especially for diabetics.

Berberine has been the subject of several recent scientific studies for diabetes.

Scientists concluded that taking berberine, at a dose of five hundred milligrams two to three times a day, was shown to

Harris

Continued from Page 1

The office of Clerk of the Circuit Court keeps court records, decisions and events, handles

LEGAL NOTICE IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF COOK COUNTY, ILLINOIS COUNTY DEPARTMENT - CHANCERY DIVISION WILMINGTON TRUST COMPANY AS SUCCESSOR TO THE BANK OF NEW YORK AS SUCCESSOR TO JPMORGAN CHASE BANK, NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, AS SUCCESSOR TRUSTEE FOR C-BASS MORTGAGE LOAN ASSET-BACKED CERTIFICATES, SERIES 2006-CB3 Plaintiff, -v.JUNG K KIM A/K/A JUNG KIM, MARIA L KIM, STEEPLE HILL TOWNHOMES CONDOMINIUM ASSOCIATION, CITY OF CHICAGO, CAPITAL ONE BANK (USA), N.A., UNKNOWN OWNERS AND NON-RECORD CLAIMANTS Defendants 10 CH 34563 8625 MAROBALI DRIVE 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 January 12, 2016, an agent for The Judicial Sales Corporation, will at 10:30 AM on April 13, 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: UNIT 8625 TOGETHER WITH ITS UNDIVIDED PERCENTAGE INTEREST IN THE COMMON ELEMENTS IN STEEPLE HILL TOWNHOMES CONDOMINIUM AS DELINEATED AND DEFINED IN THE DECLARATION RECORDED AS DOCUMENT NUMBER 95000139 IN THE SOUTHEAST 1/4 OF SECTION 34, TOWNSHIP 38 NORTH, RANGE 12 EAST OF THE THIRD PRINCIPAL MERIDIAN IN COOK COUNTY, ILLINOIS

be as effective as three different prescription oral diabetes medications for lowering blood sugar. The researchers reported that berberine had “identical effects in the regulation of blood sugar” when compared to the top diabetes medications for type 2 diabetics.

In another study in patients with type 2 diabetes, 500 milligrams twice a day of berberine lowered fasting blood sugar from just above the range of being classified as diabetes (i.e., 126ml/dL) to normal blood sugar levels (less than 100mg/dL) in most people.

Similar positive results were observed in studies focusing on people with high cholesterol and high triglycerides. A review of the current studies also determined that berberine was safe to take in conjunction with prescription medications for the above issues, and produced better results than the

fines, bail bonds, records storage, microfilming and automation.

Harris has lived in the 8th Ward for over 40 years and has been a member of the 8th Ward Regular Democratic Organization for over 30 years. She is a graduate of Chicago Vocational High School and received a bachelor’s degree in General Studies from Chicago State University.

She said Cook County Board President John Stroger served as a mentor. She was chief of staff

LEGAL NOTICE IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF COOK COUNTY, ILLINOIS COUNTY DEPARTMENT - CHANCERY DIVISION DEUTSCHE BANK NATIONAL TRUST COMPANY, AS TRUSTEE FOR ARGENT SECURITIES INC., ASSET-BACKED PASS-THROUGH CERTIFICATES, SERIES 2006-W5 Plaintiff, -v.- JAMES A. BYLAND, CAROL A. BYLAND Defendants 13 CH 03489 5404 DRURY LANE 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 January 7, 2014, an agent for The Judicial Sales Corporation, will at 10:30 AM on March 30, 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 18 IN SECOND ADDITION TO C.A. PERSON’S SUBDIVISION, BEING PART OF THE EAST 3/4 OF THE SOUTHWEST 1/4 OF SECTION 9, TOWNSHIP 37 NORTH, RANGE 13, EAST OF THE THIRD PRINCIPAL MERIDIAN, IN COOK COUNTY, ILLINOIS.

Commonly known as 8625 MAROBALI DRIVE, Hickory Hills, IL 60457

Commonly known as 5404 DRURY LANE, Oak Lawn, IL 60453

Property Index No. 18-34-402-033-1027.

Property Index No. 24-09-327-018-0000.

The real estate is improved with a condominium.

The real estate is improved with a single family residence.

medications alone.

In one placebo controlled trial, berberine lowered triglyceride levels by 35.9 percent, LDL cholesterol by 21 percent, and total cholesterol by 18 perThe participants Carolyn cent. in the study that took Johnson berberine also experienced lower blood pressure as well as weight and abdominal fat loss.

The accumulating research on berberine is really showing it to be an impressive supplement, and one that would be of benefit to many people, particularly those with blood sugar or cholesterol issues.

The recommended dosage is typically five hundred milligrams two to three times a day. Berberine has also been

under her aunt, Ald. Lorraine Dixon (8th), for over five years.

Dixon died of breast cancer in 2001 at the age of 51. Harris also was a liaison to Peoples Gas and ComEd for Dixon.

Harris has been a member of various committees and served as superintendent of Streets and Sanitation for the 8th Ward, which she took great pride in. She often accompanied workers and assisted in dispensing garbage. Harris said she wanted to get a better idea of what the job entails. She held the position of superintendent

LEGAL NOTICE IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF COOK COUNTY, ILLINOIS COUNTY DEPARTMENT - CHANCERY DIVISION U.S. BANK NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, AS INDENTURE TRUSTEE ON BEHALF OF AND WITH RESPECT TO AJAX MORTGAGE LOAN TRUST 2015-B, MORTGAGE-BACKED NOTES, SERIES 2015-B Plaintiff, -v.ABDELHAFIZ HAJMOHAMAD Defendants 2010 CH 51426 5116 W. 91ST ST. 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 January 12, 2016, an agent for The Judicial Sales Corporation, will at 10:30 AM on April 13, 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 3 IN TULLY AVENUE SUBDIVISION OF PART OF LOT 10 IN MCKAY’S SUBDIVISION OF PART OF THE NORTH 1/2 OF SECTION 4, TOWNSHIP 37 NORTH, RANGE 13 EAST OF THE THIRD PRINCIPAL MERIDIAN, IN COOK COUNTY, ILLINOIS Commonly known as 5116 W. 91ST ST., Oak Lawn, IL 60453 Property Index No. 24-04-217-043-0000.

The judgment amount was $301,241.60.

The judgment amount was $303,215.77.

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.

The real estate is improved with a single family residence.

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.

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.

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 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.

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.

You will need a photo identification issued by a government agency (driver’s license, passport, etc.) in order to gain entry into our building and the foreclosure sale room in Cook County and the same identification for sales held at other county venues where The Judicial Sales Corporation conducts foreclosure sales.

For information, contact Plaintiff s attorney: POTESTIVO & ASSOCIATES, P.C., 223 WEST JACKSON BLVD, STE 610, Chicago, IL 60606, (312) 263-0003 Please refer to file number C13-92450.

For information, contact Plaintiff’s attorney: POTESTIVO & ASSOCIATES, P.C., 223 WEST JACKSON BLVD, STE 610, Chicago, IL 60606, (312) 263-0003 Please refer to file number C13-79911.

THE JUDICIAL SALES CORPORATION One South Wacker Drive, 24th Floor, Chicago, IL 60606-4650 (312) 236-SALE

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.

You can also visit The Judicial Sales Corporation at www.tjsc.com for a 7 day status report of pending sales.

POTESTIVO & ASSOCIATES, P.C. 223 WEST JACKSON BLVD, STE 610 Chicago, IL 60606 (312) 263-0003 E-Mail: ilpleadings@potestivolaw.com Attorney File No. C13-92450 Attorney Code. 43932 Case Number: 10 CH 34563 TJSC#: 36-658

POTESTIVO & ASSOCIATES, P.C. 223 WEST JACKSON BLVD, STE 610 Chicago, IL 60606 (312) 263-0003 E-Mail: ilpleadings@potestivolaw.com Attorney File No. C13-79911 Attorney Code. 43932 Case Number: 13 CH 03489 TJSC#: 35-17319

MARINOSCI LAW GROUP, P.C. 134 N LaSalle St., STE 1900 Chicago, IL 60602 (312) 940-8580 E-Mail: mlgil@mlg-defaultlaw.com Attorney Code. 59059 Case Number: 2010 CH 51426 TJSC#: 36-431

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.

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.

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.

The judgment amount was $350,828.64.

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

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

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

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

by The Condominium Property Act, 765 ILCS 605/18.5(g-1).

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

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

shown to be well tolerated, and without side effects with the exception of constipation for some people at higher dosages.

People who do experience constipation after taking berberine in higher dosages usually experience relief if they reduce their dose.

So, to answer your question, yes, the science backs up the many benefits of berberine, and no, it is not too good to be true! I would recommend the Natural Factors brand of berberine, known as WellBetX Berberine, since it contains the 500 milligram dose used in the above research studies. Also, since I’m writing about berberine this month, we will be offering the Natural Factors brand berberine on sale for the month of March at the store for 25 percent off. If you have type 2 diabetes or issues with high triglycerides, I would very much recommend giving it a try!

Carolyn Johnson is one of the knowledgeable associates at Pass Health Foods at 7228 W. College Drive. Feel free to stop by the store for more information or advice. www. passhealthfoods.com This column makes no claims to diagnose, treat, prevent, mitigate, or cure diseases with any advice or products.

Any health related information in this article is for educational purposes only.

The ultimate responsibility for your choices and their effect on your health are yours and before applying any therapy or use of herbs, supplements, etc., you should consult your health care provider.

for four years.

In 2006, Harris was appointed alderman by former Mayor Daley to replace Todd Stroger, who became Cook County Board President after his father, John Stroger, suffered a debilitating stroke. Harris won aldermanic elections in 2007, 2011 and 2015.

Harris said one of her first goals, if elected, is to update criminal records. She said the system has to be updated because it creates frustration for the judicial system and attorneys who have to wait lengthy periods to receive records of information. Even bail bond information has to be improved, said Harris.

Hand-written carbon copies may not be clear and the information is often recorded incorrectly, Harris said.

“That’s why we have to do this first,” she said. “Waiting for files and incorrect information costs money.”

Brown said her system is not antiquated and that her department has introduced programs such as electronic filing, the online traffic ticket payment system,

mortgage surplus outreach and a new mobile app. Brown added that she seeks to deliver new and enhanced services at the clerk’s office.

“It’s the right thing to do,” said Brown.

Harris disagrees, stating that Brown is “on an island” and doesn’t work enough with other agencies.

“What I have learned as alderman is that you have to learn to work with people,” said Harris.

“The people will let you know how they feel.”

Meister calls for the circuit court to become completely automated and said that it will need more funding. Harris agrees that more technology is necessary but said costs have to be considered initially. More computer terminals can be added when not enough manpower exists, she said.

Harris disagrees with her critics who say she lacks managerial experience. The alderman said she has worked with former Gov. Quinn to build an improved sewer system in her ward and worked with state Sen. Donne Trotter

(D-17th) to raise funds for infrastructure improvements at Chicago Vocational High School.

Facing the challenges as alderman has prepared her to lead the circuit court, Harris said. She has also served as chairman of the City Council Rules Committee.

She was criticized in some circles for not holding a hearing on an ordinance to empower Inspector General Joe Ferguson.

However, she joined other members of the Black Caucus calling for the firing of Chicago Police Supt. Garry McCarthy, who she said did not listen to the needs of the communities he serves. Chicago Mayor Rahm Emanuel, who has a mostly positive relationship with Harris, dismissed McCarthy that month.

“People want to see you,” Harris said. “I can’t depend on the Democratic Party to get the word out. I appreciate it. Government puts me in a position to help people. It’s all about the community. It’s not about Michelle Harris.”

The primary election is Tuesday, March 15.

Funding

Rauner requested last year.

“I believe we can get something done,” Burke said last week. “If we just talk about the budget, we can work something out. I keep talking to Democrats and Republicans for ideas.”

Steve Brown, the longtime spokesperson for Madigan, said Rauner is “the only one who has cut higher education.”

Rauner vetoed the bill that Madigan called to provide $721 million for higher education and MAP grants for lower-income students. The bill also would have provided $40 million for community colleges.

The governor rejected the bill because he said it would create a larger hole in the state budget.

Burke joined other legislators in sending a letter to the governor to talk about a solution to the

budget standoff.

Burke defended her bill to free up higher education grants for eligible students, saying the time to act is now.

“So let’s honor those commitments and let’s get the ball rolling on the MAP grants and the funding for the community college.”

Dr. Sylvia Jenkins, president of Moraine Valley Community College in Palos Hills, was disappointed that Burke’s original bills were not given more consideration by the governor. Jenkins said Moraine is in good shape for now but is concerned about the school’s future depending on how long this budget impasse lasts.

“Some colleges will have to close programs and some teachers will have to be let go,” said Jenkins.

Continued from Page 1

with the governor on ways to bring an end to the budget stalemate.

“We can take a look at the need for reforms,” Cunningham said.

“I hope by doing this we can talk to the governor and compromise on other issues, like funding for the MAP grants. Those reforms can be talked about, along with the pensions.”

Some local Democrats have said that negotiations with the governor have not gone well up to this point. Republicans have been calling for a 20 percent cut in state funding for higher education for the 2016-17 year.

However, that would be a reduction of the 30 percent cut that

Rush

Continued from Page 1

the Brookins and Wilson law firm, as well as a licensed funeral director. Prior to that, Brookins was an assistant public defender, assistant state’s attorney, and special assistant attorney general. He serves on the board of Community Media Workshop, a no-profit organization.

Brookins lists the three core issues of his campaign as job creation, public safety, and education.

He has criticized Rush for not being accessible enough to his constituents.

Patrick has been coordinator of economic development for the Department of Planning and Development for the past nine years. Prior to that, he spent 11 years with the Illinois Department of Transportation.

Madigan has not said publicly why he has given his support to Brookins, but his father, Howard

Hickory Hills Continued from Page 1

Justice, Bedford Park, Willow Springs, Summit and possibly Hometown After listing the costs and benefits involved with the two options, it was Vodicka’s recommendation that Option 2 was the best choice for the city.

Vodicka later said outsourcing 911 dispatching services was such a minimal savings over time that it didn’t warrant the city making the change.

“The approval to move forward with this action is just the beginning. We now have to move forward with outreach to the other

Rush

Brookins

Brutus

Deuser

Tillman

Brookins Sr., served in the Illinois Legislature with Madigan from 1982 to 1992, first as a representative and then a senator.

Brooks has said that he has known Madigan since his father was a state representative, and asked him for his support and was “proud” to get it.

Brookins is listed as the preferred candidate on voting information being distributed by Madigan’s organization.

While Rush is often accused of not being accessible in his district or active in Washington, a press release posted on his website points out the House’s passage on Monday of a bill he introduced aimed at opening up more jobs for minorities in the

energy sector won bipartisan approval. It will now go to the Senate for consideration.

With the passage of H.R. 4583, Rush said in a statement, “Today, the American public witnessed a House united in creating economic growth for all people,” said Rush. “Here we have bipartisan members of the Energy and Commerce Committee who represent various constituencies from diverse regions of the country and who come with different political persuasions. We were able to put aside our differences and focus our efforts on bringing forth a jobs bill that will benefit all communities and help lift up the entire American economy.”

communities and then we will need resolutions drafted and approved. It is a process,” he said.

The regular council meeting followed the Committee of the Whole Meeting.

During the council segment, approval was given to a financial summary presented by City Treasurer Dan Schramm. The summary was a review of the last nine months of the 2015-16 Fiscal Year.

Schramm reported that all city funds are within budget.

Also approved was a $100 donation for Aaron Appliances Open House/Customer Appreciation Day, scheduled from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Friday, March 11 at 9600 S. Roberts Road. Ac-

cording to Howley, the donation will benefit the Ronald McDonald House and the city will be listed as a sponsor.

Other approvals included a Class E Liquor License for Lacey’s Place at 7831 W. 95th St., and the purchase of a Hawks pick-up truck for $19,000 by the Public Works Department.

Ald. Debbie Ferrero (2nd Ward) announced that business applications for the city’s Street Fair, scheduled for June 25 and 26, will be distributed through The Hills Chamber this year instead of being mailed by the city.

Interested applicants should contact Phyllis Maka, chamber president, at (708) 233-6860.

10 The Reporter

SCHOOL NEWS

Oak Lawn High speech team places 4th in state

Queen of Peace Engineering and Biomedical Science courses earn college credit Queen of Peace High School recently adopted a national curriculum, Project Lead the Way (PLTW), to help bring engineering and other STEM fields to life in the classroom.

The PLTW courses are now being recognized for college credit.

“We have been encouraging our students to take PLTW courses to gain experience applying science and math concepts and techniques to critical thinking problems. It is gratifying to see that now they can earn college credit for all of their hard work,” said Sara Svoboda, a certified PLTW instructor at Queen of Peace.

Students who enroll in those courses and successfully pass the year end assessments have the option to earn up to 10 hours transferable college credit at the University of Iowa, one of the

Thursday, March 3, 2016

Supplied photo

Queen of Peace High School students in the Civil Engineering and Architecture course get hands on surveying experience.

nation’s top 100 Engineering schools.

“PLTW courses are rigorous and intense. They are full of hands on activities, problem based learning objectives and engineering and biomedical simulations. We are delighted that they are being recognized at the college level,”

said Hedi Belkaoui, principal at Queen of Peace.

The entire PLTW curriculum at Queen of Peace consists of four courses including: Introduction to Engineering, Principles of Engineering, Civil Engineering and Architecture and Principles of Biomedical Science.

The Oak Lawn Community High School speech team placed fourth in the IHSA state tournament last month in Peoria.

The Spartans had several students that qualified for state and five qualified for the final rounds.

The students included Vaughn Smith, finalist in Prose Reading; Carl Seibel, fifth place in Original Oratory; Stephane McFann, third place in Special Occasion Speaking; Cameron DeLaMora, third place in Informative Speaking; and Kaely Clark and Smith were crowned state champions in Dramatic Duet Acting.

Supplied photos The school’s Performance in the Above: Oak Lawn Community High School’s Performance in the Round (PIR) entry, “The Boy in Round (PIR) entry, “The Boy in the Striped Pajamas,” placed third in the Striped Pajamas,” earned a the IHSA State Speech Tournament. third place at the state tournament. The PIR cast members Oak Lawn High include Aisling Berry, Alyssa School’s Bitner, Veronica Bugaj, Kaitlyn Kaeley Clark Grady, Mirtha Guerra, Hanna and Vaughn Harris, Brandon Hollenback, Smith were Jozef Hyrczyk, Andrea Marius, crowned Abigail Moore, Matt Olejniczak, state Alexanddra Overland, Shelby champions Roberts, Damian Samsonowicz, in Dramatic Emily Simmons, Hannah Spillane, Duet Acting.

Noah Swanberg and David Ward.

Mother McAuley Science Bowl Team places second in regional competition Mother McAuley High School Science Bowl Team placed second in the Regional Science Bowl Competition on Feb. 6 at Reavis High School.

The Mighty Macs team consisted of junior May Cottongim, junior Alex Devlin, a resident of Oak Lawn; junior Shelby Lerner, also of Oak Lawn; senior Casey Macander and senior Anna Schultz-Breef.

The competition was a double elimination with a total of 10 rounds, covering physics, chemistry, biology, earth/space, math and energy. The Mighty Macs made it to the final round, where they lost in a tie-breaker. As the second-place finishers, each McAuley team member received a Raspberry Pi computer as a prize.

“I am extremely proud of our team’s perforSupplied photo mance at the Regional Science Bowl Competition,” The Mother McAuley Science Bowl Team placed second in regional competition last month at Reavis High said Melissa Scholl, science teacher and team School. Members of the McAuley team are (from left) Anna Schultz-Breef, Maya Cottongim, Casey Macander, moderator. “They worked hard to prepare, comAlex Devlin, Melissa Scholl, team moderator; and Shelby Lerner. ing into school early many days. I look forward

to their performance next year.”

Each team that won a round received a bye for the next odd-numbered round. During this down time, they could participate in a variety of enrichment activities. One of the activities was run

by University of Illinois at Chicago engineering students, who took an idea from the American Society of Civil Engineers annual competition.

Teams had to build the highest tower possible using only 10 popsicle sticks and duct tape. This tower then had to support a two pound book for 10 seconds. The McAuley Science Bowl team won the competition, building a tower at 29 cm and beating the college engineering students by 9.9 cm.

Though the team is done competing, they plan to meet up throughout the course of the year to work on fun projects in preparation for next year.

The Science Bowl Team is open to all students at McAuley.

Central Middle School earns awards at music competition Richmeier, performed from The Central Middle School memory; Anna Bain, ManSinging Panthers and Concert ny Onyango, Adam Viravec, Band in Evergreen Park colAilyn Esquivel, Rebeca Marlected over 50 awards, more molejo, BrookLynn Hohman, than any of the other 11 schools Jonathan Salazar, Danielle that participated in the annual Powers, Alexis Elwood, Illinois Grade School Music Marion Isaac, Faith Malave, Association’s annual Solo and Liam Duffy, Dana Stanecki, Ensemble competition last Andrew Corona, Grace Murmonth at Hillside School. phy, Brooke Scanlon, Juliet “Our band and choir reSupplied photo O’Connor, MaryKate Pufunt, ceived a combined 49 Division 1 ratings, and two Division Central Middle School students (from left) Liam Kantzler (two first-place 2 ratings,” said Mark Dreyer, Kerrigan Collins and Nicole Mutansky were medals), Ian Moran and Nichoband director. “We won so part of a septet (seven-piece ensemble) las Jacobs. singing “Do You Hear the People Sing” last many Division 1 ratings, they month in the annual Grade School Music Second-place medals were ran out of medals.”

Association’s annual Solo and Ensemble awarded to Jordan Lofquist Dreyer said the IGSMA is competition at Hillside School. and Emmett Graylee. Banossending the additional medals Cruz’s students had the folin the mail. lowing vocal solo/ensemble reity while still challenging them.

This isn’t the first time CMS sults: Kallista Elwood, Cameron has performed at the IGSMA We would schedule lessons and Dunlap and Alyssa Purvis, firstcompetition. “We have per- rehearse together.” place rating with a perfect score; The criteria for the musical formed in this competition for and Lizzie Hansen, Marion Isaac more than 15 years,” said Lisa selections had to adhere to the and BrookLynn Hohman, firstBanos-Cruz, music and choir requirements of the IGSMA. place ranking.

Students were judged on varidirector.

The quartet of Dana Stanecki, Central Middle School has per- ous criteria and awarded a medal Sinead Doogan, Liam Kantzler formed well in previous years, based on their score. and Andrew Corona placed sec“Students needed to pracbut 2016 is their best yet. ond.

The trio of Marcy Benson, “I had 20 vocal participants tice with lots of rehearsing, Mary Kate Pufunt and Hope Mithis year, that’s more than I’ve and then perform well before ever had before — of them, 100 a panel of judges,” said Dreyer. chalek also placed second. The percent earned a first-place rating “We suggested they limit the septet of Shannon Miller, Keegan — four had perfect scores,” said amount of solos and ensembles Cassidy, Anna Bain, Kerrigan Banos-Cruz. “They’ve worked to no more than three because Collins, Nicole Mutansky, Oliver avidly since November. I’m really it was a serious commitment Richmeier and Tristan Wagner proud of how much they grew and required a great deal of also placed second.

“There are some talented over this three-month process. time and work.”

One student even learned to sing Dreyer’s Band received 29 students in this district. I love in Italian for her performance.” first-place medals and two sec- that so many are motivated to participate in choir and band,” Students had some autonomy ond-place finishes in choosing their solo/ensemble First-place medals were said Banos-Cruz. “They’re consong. However, they did have awarded to Matt Miglieri, two tinuing to improve their skills help. Banos-Cruz explained,” I first-place medals; Alyssa Pur- through our music programs and worked with students to choose a vis, Anthony Consiglio, Caroline we enjoy helping them grow as song that would best fit their abil- Witowski, Sean Duffy and Oliver musicians.”

Supplied photo

Members of Mount Carmel’s Multicultural Club posed with keynote speaker Neal Sales-Griffin (second from left) and the Rev. Tony Mazurkiewicz (far right), school president, following this week’s Black History Month assembly at the school.

Mount Carmel celebrates Black History Month Mount Carmel High School celebrated the diversity of its 116-year-old community through an annual Black History Month assembly on Feb. 22.

Faculty, staff, and students gathered Monday morning in the Cacciatore Athletic Center to celebrate and discuss the theme of “Unity, Community, Equality = Peace.” After the Rev. Tony Mazurkieicz, O. Carm., led the assembly in prayer, members of Mount Carmel’s Multicultural Club detailed how each part of the theme pertains to everyday life.

“Among the goals associated with this assembly each year is the hope that we will better understand and respect each other, and celebrate the unique gifts that each person brings to this community,” said John Stimler, principal of Mount Carmel High School.

The assembly continued with a speech by Neal Sales-Griffin, a 2005 graduate of Mount Carmel and co-founder of the Starter League. Sales-Griffin asked students to consider his speech as an interactive conversation, during which he described the struggles that all Chicagoans endure, and advocated for collective progress.

“I owe my success to the character that I built at this school,” said Sales-Griffin. “Work, drive, compassion and conviction in the brotherhood at

Mount Carmel is what helped me succeed.”

Sales-Griffin was direct in challenging his audience to “dedicate a portion - if not all of your life - to serving others,” and pointed out that it is up to this generation of young people “to lead the charge in making a difference” in the problems our society faces.

Shanta’ McKay-Wheeler, moderator of the Mount Carmel Multicultural Club, lauded the club for its work in developing the assembly, and noted that “Neal Sales-Griffin helped our students understand that caring for others also improves their own chances for success as individuals.”

The Black History Month assembly also featured a musical performance by Nia featuring Versatile.

As the assembly concluded, student representatives gathered in the center of the Cacciatore Athletic Center and conjoined a commemorative chain, symbolizing the unity of the Mount Carmel community.

“The song selections performed by Nia, the linking of the chains, and the crowd involvement fostered an atmosphere of community and unity that will continue to be carried out in our community as well as in communities outside of Mount Carmel,” said McKay-Wheeler.

STUDENTS IN THE SPOTLIGHT Marist student is selected as National Merit Finalist Jason Phelan, a senior at Marist High School, has been selected as a National Merit Finalist by the National Merit Scholarship Corporation.

Phelan, a resident of Lemont, has had an impressive academic career. As a junior, he earned a top composite score of 36 on the ACT. He is the third Marist student to score a 36 in the past 11 years. On average, less than one-tenth of one percent of students who take the ACT earns the top Phelan score. Among test takers in the high school graduating class of 2014, only 1,407 of nearly 1.85 million students earned a composite score of 36.

He says he is still weighing his options about where to attend college, but plans to major in physics and math and pursue a career in research.

While at Marist, Phelan was a two-year member of the boys basketball team, and served a third year as the team’s statistician.

Phelan is a member of the school’s successful math team, which is the top Catholic school team in Illinois finishing fourth in state last May. He is also the vice-president of the National Honor Society. He has carried a challenging course load, tackling many Advanced Placement and honors classes.

Oak Lawn resident is named to RIT dean’s list Oak Lawn resident Jacob Nelson was selected to the dean’s list for the 2015 fall semester at Rochester Institute of Technology in Rochester, N.Y. He is studying in the computing security program.

Local students are selected to dean’s list at University of Iowa A group of local students have been selected to the dean’s list for 2015 fall semester at the University of Iowa in Iowa City, Iowa. Earning dean’s list honors were Jenna Mahoney, of Evergreen Park; Emily Szymanski, Hickory Hills; Andrew Bolero, Palos Heights; and Nicole Obrochta, Palos Hills.

Supplied photo

Chicago Christian hosts Fine Arts Shadow Day

Chicago Christian High School in Palos Heights hosted a Fine Arts Shadow Day on Feb. 24 for eighth-grade students interested in the arts. Students were allowed to visit Art, Band, and Choir classes, as well as hear about the Drama Department at Chicago Christian High School. Students were also treated to a pizza lunch, where they were able to listen to current Chicago Christian students enrolled in Fine Arts classes discuss the various classes offered at the school and ask any questions they had about the various classes and clubs.

Pictured above are the Fine Arts Day shadows and shadow hosts.

Southwest Chicago Christian School will host open house and free day of preschool on March 7 An open house and a free day of preschool will be held from 9 a.m. to noon Monday, March 7 at the Southwest Chicago Christian School, 10110 S. Central Ave., Oak Lawn.

No registration is required for this event. Southwest Chicago Christian School provides a Christcentered learning community. The school offers a preschool program, full- and half-day kindergarten, before and after school care programs, certified

and experienced teachers, and owns and operates its own bus service.

Southwest Chicago Christian School is also the only middle school in the area to offer Project Lead the Way (PLTW) Gateway to Technology STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math) courses. More information can be obtained by calling Wilma Persenaire at (708) 388-7656 or email her at wpersenaire@swchristian.org.

SPORTS The Regional News • The Reporter

Making a big splash Two Sandburg swimmers finished in the top 10 at state. Page 2

Jeff Sports Editor • sports@regionalpublishing.com

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

Thursday,March March5,3,2015 2016 Thursday,

The waiting game SXU basketball teams wait to see who they will play in the NAIA nationals. Page 4 Southwest••Section Section2,2,Page Page11 Southwest

Erin Drynan had 23 games in which she recorded at least a doubledouble, and six of those were triple doubles.

Photos by Jeff Vorva

Moraine Valley freshman Michelle Borgen had 22 double-doubles in 30 games this season and led the nation in number of free throws made.

They’re a double-double dynamic duo Borgen’s double-doubles Nov. 6 Nov. 13 Nov. 14 Nov. 17 Dec. 1 Dec. 3 Dec. 12 Dec. 19 Jan. 14 Jan. 19 Jan. 21 Jan. 23 Jan. 26 Jan. 28 Feb. 2 Feb. 4 Feb. 9 Feb. 13 Feb. 16 Feb. 18 Feb. 25 Feb. 27

Lincoln Land Black Hawk East Lincoln Kennedy-King Harper Trinity Wright Joliet Lake County Waubonsee McHenry Co. Kankakee Morton Prairie State Elgin Lake County Waubonsee South Suburban Morton Prairie State Black Hawk Waubonsee

23 pts, 17 reb.

23 pts, 13 reb.

27 pts, 15 reb.

17 pts, 10 reb.

23 pts, 16 reb.

19 pts, 16 reb.

20 pts, 17 reb.

20 pts, 14 reb.

17 pts, 17 reb.

14 pts, 11 reb.

34 pts, 10 reb.

25 pts, 11 reb.

24 pts, 15 reb.

30 pts, 13 reb.

21 pts, 11 reb.

14 pts, 11 reb.

22 pts, 10 reb.

16 pts, 17 reb.

19 pts, 10 reb.

21 pts, 12 reb.

36 pts, 21 reb.

14 pts, 11 reb.

By Jeff Vorva • Sports Editor

hen Mother McAuley’s Erin Drynan and Andrew’s Michelle Borgen signed up to play at Moraine Valley Community College on the same day last offseason, it was uh-oh time for the two power players. After meeting each other, both wondered how much they would get to play.

W

“I looked at her and said, ‘It looks like I’m going to have to split playing time with her,’ ’’ Borgen said.

“I was thinking the same thing when I saw her,” Drynan said.

Fortunately for both and unfortunately for opponents, Cyclones coach Delwyn Jones decided to use the 6-foot-3 Drynan and the 6-1 Borgen on the court at the same time. The Cyclones closed their season with a 20-10 record after losing to Waubonsee in the Region IV semifinals on Saturday, and the two freshmen finished the season with a huge collection of double-doubles — and, in Drynan’s case, a handful of triple-doubles as well.

All told, the two Cyclones combined for 45 games in which they had at least a double-double showing.

That included six games in which Drynan had six triple-doubles.

They were the double-double dynamic duo of Moraine Valley.

FIRE OPENS SEASON SUNDAY

IN SEARCH OF THAT NIFTY 50

By Jeff Vorva Sports Editor

Preseason games are generally useless when trying to judge how a team is going to do in the regular season. But for Chicago Fire fans, it’s the only body of work to base opinions on.

The team has a new general manager (Nelson Rodriguez), a new head coach (Veljko Paunovic) and a roster with a lot of new faces to get used to.

So when the Fire went through an unbeaten preseason of six matches – including a 2-0 victory Saturday over defending Major League Soccer champs Portland to win the Simple InviPhoto by Jeff Vorva tational ChampionVeteran Fire goalie Sean Johnson said the changes ship – it gave followon the team are positive. ers a chance to dream about making it back to the playoffs for the first time since 2012.

But now reality hits. The Fire opens the 2016 campaign hosting the New York City Football Club at 1 p.m. at Toyota Park in Bridgeview.

This will give people a clearer picture of what this team can do.

MEET THE 2016 FIRE The Chicago Fire roster as of Monday: GOALKEEPERS: Sean Johnson, Matt Lampson, Patrick McLain DEFENDERS: Jonathan Campbell, Joey Calistri, Patrick Doody, Eric Gehrig, Michael Harrington, Johan Kappelhof, João Meira, Rodrigo Ramos, Brandon Vincent MIDFIELDERS: David Accam, Razvan Cocis, Drew Conner, Collin Fernandez, John Goossens, Nick LaBrocca, Matt Polster, Michael Stephens FORWARDS: Gilberto, Kennedy Igboananike Seven nations of birth are represented on the current roster: Brazil (Gilberto, Ramos), Ghana (Accam), the Netherlands (Goossens, Kappelhof), Nigeria (Igboananike), Portugal (Meira) and Romania (Cocis).

Fourteen players were born in the United States.

“Winning the first game is important but not crucial,” Rodriguez said. “We’re going to lose a game over the course of the year. The way we look at it is that 50 points is pretty much the barometer for getting into the playoffs. We have broken the season down in bytes and we will approach the season in that way. To win at home, would be an energizing moment.

“It’s two marquee teams in the league. It will be an interesting first game.’’

See FIRE, Page 2

Moraine Athletic Director Bill Finn, a longtime basketball coach in the area, was puzzled when watching the two work during a late regular-season game.

“I can’t believe these two aren’t playing Division I basketball somewhere,” he said. “They are so strong inside and can run the floor. I’ve seen a lot of players at this school, and these are two real good ones.’’

Both said they received little notice from colleges coming out of high school.

“In high school, I was more of a quiet player,” Drynan said. “We relied on a lot of outside shooting and not as much inside play for offense. But coming here, I had to be more aggressive and help lead the team.

“It’s definitely a turnaround for me and people were surprised to see me doing this.’’

Drynan averaged 17 points, 14 rebounds and six See DOUBLE DUO, Page 4

Drynan’s double-doubles Nov. 17 Nov. 24 Dec. 8 Dec. 12 Dec. 19 Jan. 12 Jan. 14 Jan. 19 Jan. 23 Jan. 28 Feb. 2 Feb. 4 Feb. 6 Feb. 9 Feb. 11 Feb. 18 Feb. 27

Kennedy-King DuPage Malcolm X Wright Joliet Elgin Lake County Waubonsee Kankakee Prairie State Elgin Lake County Oakton Waubonsee McHenry Co. Prairie State Waubonsee

28 pts., 21 reb.

13 pts., 11 reb.

11 pts., 11 blocks 21 pts., 14 reb.

17 pts., 12 reb.

35 pts., 15 reb.

20 pts., 12 reb.

14 pts., 11 reb.

21 pts., 19 reb.

10 pts., 13 reb.

16 pts., 18 reb.

17 pts., 20 reb.

18 pts., 16 reb.

14 pts., 13 reb.

28 pts., 12 reb.

11 pts., 15 reb.

15 pts., 11 reb.

Drynan’s triple-doubles (pts-reb.-blocks)

Nov. 7 Dec. 1 Dec. 3 Jan. 26 Feb. 13 Feb. 16

Lincoln Harper Trinity Morton South Suburban Morton

12-15-10 26-19-10 20-16-13 12-18-12 24-18-11 31-19-10

Knights’ season comes to stunning end Loss to Reed-Custer ends Chicago Christian’s season at 22-7

By Jeff Vorva Sports Editor

This magical Chicago Christian boys basketball season inspired by Ronald Slager has come to an end.

The Knights (22-7) lost to Reed-Custer, 6865, Tuesday night at the Class 2A Clifton Central Tournament to end their best season since the 2007-08 campaign. CC’s Malik Parker (24 points) missed a 3-point attempt in the closing seconds.

Chicago Christian beats Teammate Anajuwan Spencer rebounded and his 3-pointer Illiana for the also missed the mark in the regional title.

See Phil Arvia’s heartbreaking loss.

There was a lot of fun and story: Page 3 joy this season, especially in winning the regional, but the team members opened the season with heavy hearts as they began practice a month after Slager, a longtime assistant coach at the school died of cancer after an eight-year battle. Immediately after Chicago Christian beat host Illiana Christian, 59-48, Friday night in Lansing for the regional title, players donned shirts in Slager’s honor.

“This isn’t about us, it’s about coach Slager,” senior guard Daylon Washington said. “He knew what type of team we were going to have. He was looking forward to this season. He thought we would be able to win a championship.’’

Slager is the son of Will Slager, who coached at Chicago Christian for close to 40 years and won

Photo by Jeff Vorva

Chicago Christian senior Farrell Winchester raises a shirt in honor of late assistant basketball coach Ron Slager after the Knights won the Class 2A Illiana Christian Regional on Friday night.

746 games. He died after the 1989-90 season.

Current coach Kevin Pittman is in his 10th season. During his second season, his team won regional and sectional titles en route to a 2210 mark in 2007-08. But in the next six out of seven seasons, the team posted sub .500 seasons including a career-worst 8-19 mark when Washington was a sophomore in 2014.

But last year, the Knights broke even at 14-14 and this year opened the season with a 14-2 mark.

A four-loss streak to Stagg, Illiana Christian, Wheaton Academy and Oak Lawn tested the team’s mettle, but Pittman and the Knights survived and won eight straight before Tuesday’s loss.

2

Section 2 Thursday, March 3, 2016

The Regional News - The Reporter

A lot of good things have happened to Yates since Feb. 15, 2014 he first time I ever saw Rudy Yates wrestle, he lost.

It was Feb. 15, 2014 at the Class 3A Hinsdale Central Sectional.

Most times I cover an event, I do my homework and know who’s who and what’s what.

On this day, I didn’t.

I wasn’t the sports editor at the time but my job at part of being the Reporter editor was to shoot sports photos at three events a week. That weekend I called an audible and at the last minute headed to Hinsdale Central and had a 20- or 30-minute window to shoot before heading to another assignment.

I knew a bunch of our teams were there and wrestling matches usually provide a lot of arms, legs and drama – some good photo ops.

What I didn’t know was who was who. I shot some Sandburg and Stagg kids and while I was walking back to the work area to get ready to leave, I saw a Marist kid and a Brother Rice kid going at it in the 113-pound division and a lot of people were hollering and screaming.

Now, I may not have done my homework that day, but I followed one

T

JEFF VORVA

Making the Extra Point of my top Vorva Rules of Journalism: If anyone from Brother Rice and Marist are battling each other, it’s smart money to take photos. I don’t care if its football, basketball, wrestling or a poker game, you just don’t walk away.

So I sat down on the corner of the mat and watched these two go at it during the last period and the Marist crowd was going bananas. The Marist kid won. The Brother Rice kid smiled and raised the Marist kid’s arm.

It was time for me to scoot to my next assignment. I planned on figuring out who these guys were later.

I almost got to the work area when a little kid screamed to another “Did you hear??!!?? A Marist kid just beat Yates!!!.’’ The other kid was stunned, too.

Yates? Wait a minute…

Photo by Jeff Vorva

Rudy Yates (left) lost as many matches as he won state titles — three — during his high school career at Brother Rice and Sandburg.

I knew Rudy Yates was a sophomore Brother Rice wrestler who had this big winning streak, but that wasn’t him, I just watched lose, was it?

Yes it was.

Marist’s Nick Lukanich upset Yates in the semifinals and that snapped a 72-match winning streak. Yates had gone unbeaten his freshman year and was unbeaten until I accidentally stumbled upon his match with

Lukanich.

“I’ll always remember that one,” Yates said. “I just smiled when it was over. I knew the crowd was going to get loud so I looked at them and said ‘let’s get louder.’ I tried to let that one roll off my shoulder.’’ ‘’It was really tough but at the end of the day, I recovered from it. I never let it keep me down. Those who let losses keep them down aren’t the best

wrestlers.’’

Yates lost a state semifinal match to Plainfield South’s Miguel Silva and a third-place match to Glenbard North’s Austin Gomez that year.

His family moved from Oak Lawn to Orland Park and his junior and senior mart he was perfect for Sandburg’s powerhouse wrestling team, winning a 126-pound crown as a junior and a 132-pound title in February.

He finished his career at 167-3.

Since seeing one of those losses, I have covered him a few times and watched him rack up big victories.

He is heading to Northern Iowa to wrestle next year.

“I’m proud of that and I’m proud of all the steps that I’ve taken and the records that I’ve set,” Yates said.

“I want my name to be remembered forever and I think I did an OK job of that.’’

Think about this: He had as many losses in his career – three – as state championships.

Needless to say, when I first saw him wrestle on Feb. 15, 2014, we were both a little off our games.

He’s recovered pretty well since then.

IHSA STATE SWIMMING AND DIVING MEET

‘We rocked it this year’

Sandburg coach pumped that Eagles brought home several medals

By Anthony Nasella Correspondent

Faces in the crowd

Supplied photo

Century Junior High hosted a "pack the house" night Jan. 18 for its eighth grade basketball game. Parents created Fatheads to surprise the players with during halftime of the game.

Klopas will provide color for Fire on TV

By Jeff Vorva Sports Editor

The Chicago Fire and Comcast SportsNet Chicago announced regional broadcasting plans for the Fire's 2016 MLS campaign and Fire legend Frank Klopas will be handling the color duties while Dan Kelly handles the play-by-play.

A Chicago soccer icon, Klopas returned to his hometown in advance of the 1998 season and led the Fire to the double, helping the club to the 1998 MLS Cup in a 2-0 win over D.C. United before scoring the huge goal days later in a 2-1 extra time victory over the Columbus Crew in that year's U.S. Open Cup final.

Klopas served as the Fire head coach from 201113 and in the same capacity for the Montreal Impact from 2014-15. A U.S. international, Klopas scored 12 goals in 39 appearances and represented the United States in the 1988 Summer Olympics, the 1994 FIFA World Cup and the 1995 Copa America tournaments.

Kelly, a native of St. Louis, called play-by-play for the NHL's Chicago Blackhawks on Comcast SportsNet from 2006-2008. In addition, Kelly has done play-by-play for the Columbus Blue Jackets, the Big Ten Network (including men's and women’s college soccer for six years), as well as both the men’s and women’s Big Ten Tournament, University of Denver men's hockey and for MLS games on HDNet. They will be joined by sideline reporter Paul Tenorio, who joins the broadcast team after serving as the Orlando City SC and soccer beat writer for the Orlando Sentinel for the past three years. A gradu-

ate of Northwestern University's Medill School of Journalism, Tenorio additionally served as a sports writer for The Washington Post from 2007-12.

Klopas is the name most Fire fans are familiar with and Fire bosses are happy to have him back.

“I’m particularly excited with Frank’s new association with the Fire,” said Fire COO Atul Khosla. “I’m confident that he will be a great fit in the booth with Dan and, when supported by Paul's work on the sideline, believe that we have assembled a top-class on-air team which will provide unmatched coverage and analysis this season.”

CSN Chicago will carry 28 Fire matches, beginning with the home opener against New York City FC at Toyota Park at 1 p.m. Sunday. This season's plans also include expanded All Access programming, a five-game Spanish-language simulcast schedule and more linear and digital coverage of the team.

The season kicks off with a three-and-a-half hour broadcast window starting at noon Sunday with the rebroadcast of the debut episode of Chicago Fire All-Access, a behind-the-scenes program, followed by a 30-minute pregame show, the season opener against NYCFC and a 30-minute postgame show.

“The Chicago Fire continues to make an impact not only in terms of growth of their fan base over the past several years, but also in their devoted impact in our community,” said Phil Bedella, vice president/ general manager of Comcast SportsNet Chicago.

“We are proud to be the regional television home for the Fire and fans can count on us once again to deliver expert game coverage, along with enhanced digital coverage, for what promises to be an exciting 2016 MLS season.”

Fire

Continued from Page 1 The veteran of the team, goalie Sean Johnson, has looked around the locker room and has seen a lot of new teammates trying to learn Paunovic’s system.

“It’s a positive change for us and we’re adapting to it,” Johnson said. “We’re trying our best to get up to speed.’’

Rodriguez is not making the rookie mistake of getting too giddy over the preseason.

“Winning is nice and it was especially nice to win Saturday night,” Rodriguez said. “But 24 hours later, it meant nothing. This Sunday will be the real first test that the team faces. We still have to get better. But I’m satisfied with the progress we have demonstrated so far and the team has the capability to improve.

“We haven’t been punched in the face yet. We haven’t lost four games in a row yet. We haven’t lost 4-0 yet. We haven’t had the media criticize us yet. The real test of that character will come when we face genuine adversity. But for the moment, we’re very pleased with how the character of the group has come together.’’

Paunovic was happy with the team’s 5-0-1 preseason.

“The players are trying to do what we are asking and demanding,” Paunovic said. “They are doing it and they want to do it. And they believe it. And it shows it with how we performed in the preseason.

They can see how the system can work.’’

But the players and coach meshing is something that may not work as easily during the regular season.

“Pauno’s style and demands are great,” the GM said. “But there is no substitute for time and ex-

Sandburg didn’t win a state championship trophy in boys swimming, but you might say the Eagles brought home some heavy medal.

At this past weekend’s Illinois High School Association State Meet in Evanston, the Eagles had their share of individual success stories – as every swimmer on the team that qualified for state earned at least one medal, while the team scored medals in five different events.

Senior Kevin Stratton placed seventh in 100yard backstroke (50:93 seconds), and junior Aidan Farley placed ninth in the 200 freestyle (1:42.97) and tenth in the 500 freestyle (4:38.24).

In relays, Sandburg placed 12th in both the 200 freestyle (1:27.25) and the 200 medley (1:36.62).

“If you asked us at the beginning of the season what we would have gotten out of this state meet, we just wanted some medals,” Eagles coach Jim Caliendo said. “We came out of it achieving our goals. We’re not a team that’s in hunt for a trophy like some powerhouses are. Our goal was to score, and we rocked it this year.

“We wanted to get out of the state meet with some wins, and we ended up medaling in five events. We had a wonderful Saturday, and it was a great experience for all of our kids and seniors because everybody earned at least one medal.

Everyone is happy, for once, in our program.”

200 Freestyle Relay was comprised of Farley, seniors Jake Gobielle and Cobie Fritsch and junior Marty Blake. Making up the 200 Medley relay was Stratton, Gobielle, Blake and senior Josh Lang.

Caliendo recognized that the pressure for state finals was a little more intense this year due to the team performing exceptionally well at sectionals, specifically Farley, who had the top sectional time in the state in the 500 with a 4:53.59.

“We were very, very fast at the sectional meet, and we came in with some very high seeds at the state meet,” he said “That added to a lot of the pressure for Aiden and the relay. I just told them and Aiden, there’s no pressure despite the fact that we overachieved toward the end of the season.

“We swam well in our own pool with our crowd. Nobody choked — I thought the performances were solid considering the pressure.”

For Farley, he admitted that the pressure was there but was thankful that it wasn’t more overwhelming.

“There was quite a bit of pressure involved, but I wasn’t too nervous,” he said. “It could have been much harder. I had nothing to lose. I wanted to finish in to top 10 in my two events, and I did that. I thought I performed well.

“The state meet has the best competition and is an entirely different environment. There’s no sympathy for bad times, and there was a good amount of pressure going in based on my sectional scores. Getting up on the blocks in the best lane and the best heat: everyone is watch-

Farley

Stratton

ing you.”

Stratton, who failed to advance to Saturday’s finals last season, said he was thrilled to realize that goal this season.

“Last year I made it in the 100 backstroke, but I didn’t do as well as I would have liked to,” he said. “One of my goals was reaching the finals and doing better than my seed time going in.

I accomplished both goal, and it and made my night.

“Considering how long season is and being able do that at last meet, it really means something and I’ll always remember that forever.

This was a great experience.”

Caliendo had nothing but praise for the performance of his solid and consistent senior captain.

“Aiden has been the story, but our leader and captain has been Kevin all year along,” he said.

“He was solid and had the best state meet. He swam faster in everything all weekend. Kevin showed he was a true leader and our MVP. It was important for him to have a good state meet.

He lit it up.”

In addition to Sandburg, Stagg competed at the state finals but the District 230 school didn’t enjoy the same success.

Junior Lucas Smiarowski, who finished sixth in the 200 IM last year, was disqualified from that event in the preliminaries on Friday and the missed the cut of 12 in the 100 breast by just 19 hundredths of a second (57.89).

Senior Gabe Jezierski finished 16th in the 100 breaststroke (58.43). Both Smiarowski and Jezierski both reduced seconds off their sectional times.

“Lucas swam well, but it was just one of those things that didn’t quite fall into our plans,” Chargers head coach Jason Carr said. “Lucas and I talked about some strategy for next year, and we now know what to expect and how to strategize. We have something to build on for the future.”

“Gabe was able to drop some more time, which was great. He was fully tapered at sectionals and realized the goal of reaching state — something that he fell short in reaching last year. It was fun to see him swim well with all the excitement and the crowd.”

HIGH SCHOOL/COMMUNITY SPORTS NOTES Photo by Jeff Vorva

New Fire coach Veljko Paunovic meets the media before the team’s kickoff luncheon on Monday.

perience in that setting. Five weeks is plenty long enough for preseason but it’s not the same as five months. Or five years. One thing that will benefit us in more time together. Now keep in mind that when you add or subtract a piece, you stunt that timeline a little bit.

“We are looking at Sunday as a microcosm of where we are. We need to do better in possession.

We gave the ball away a little bit too easily. Our back line is still getting to know each other and will get better. We will limit chances against us. And I think there is room for us to generate even more opportunities on the offensive side of the ball.’’

New York, only in its second year of play, also has a new coach – Patrick Viera – who took over for Jason Kreis after a 10-17-7 debut in the MLS. Spain’s David Villa is the team captain.

The New York squad finished 5-1 in its preseason and beat the Reykjavik FC 2-1 on Saturday with Andrea Pirlo and Mix Diskerud scoring goals.

Last year, the Fire beat New York City 1-0 and the two teams followed with a 2-2 tie.

Vail inducted into Oak Lawn Hall of Fame Oak Lawn Community High School was scheduled to induct its 23rd Alumni Hall of Fame recipient, William J. Vail on Wednesday as part of the school’s winter sports awards night.

Vail, who graduated from Oak Lawn in 1967, is also a graduate of the University of Northern Colorado. He is a licensed engineer, educator, and a real estate salesman.

Vail wrestled while Vail attending OLCHS and eventually became a world-class freestyle wrestler. Vail continues his involvement with the sport as a coach, team leader, and administrator. He was the assistant completion director for the Los Angeles Olympic Organizing Committee, competition manager for the Atlanta Committee for the Olympic Games, administrator and coach for the 1992 Olympic Team, Treasurer and chairman of the finance committee for U.S.A. Wrestling, team leader

and coach for Olympic, World Cup, and World Championship Competition. Vail was also highly involved in Chicago’s bid for the 2016 games.

Additionally, Vail has been inducted into several state and national Hall of Fames as an athlete, coach, administrator and team leader.

Oak Lawn baseball, softball registration

Oak Lawn Baseball and Softball offers baseball and softball for kids ages 4-18. Instructional leagues for boys and girls are also offered. Registration is open in February and March online at www.oaklawnbaseball.com.

PBO still offering registration The 2016 Palos Baseball season still has opening and there is time to register.

Go to www.palosbaseball.org and click on the registration link on the registration tab. Nearly 600 players annually participate in the league.

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

BASKETBALL

The Regional News - The Reporter

Thursday, March 3, 2016 Section 2

3

H-F 60, MARIST 42

Missing easy shots is hard on RedHawks

By Jeff Vorva Sports Editor

Chicago Christian players mob each other after winning the school’s first regional title since 2008 Friday night.

Photo by Jeff Vorva

Blood and glory for Chicago Christian Two days after bloody Wednesday practice, Knights net regional win

By Phil Arvia Correspondent

When Kevin Pittman Sr. brought his boys basketball team to the practice floor in advance of Friday’s regional title contest against Illiana Christian, he came armed with one particular fact: “This (Illiana) team, when they beat us (Jan. 15), was one of the few teams to out-rebound us during the season,” Pittman said. “Wednesday we had a two-hour practice, and about an hour and thirty-five minutes of it was competitive rebounding drills — to the point guys were getting hacked off at each other.

“That’s what we wanted. Rebounding is a physical thing. And we’re not very good against these guys if they’re getting second and third shots.”

Friday, when Chicago Christian was the team getting those extra looks, the result was a 59-48 win for the Knights’ first regional title since 2008, sparking a wild celebration on Illiana’s home court. The Knights (22-6) beat Illiana (21-7) for the second time in three tries this season, both wins coming in Lansing.

“It’s crazy,” Anajuwon Spencer said of playing in the bedlam of Illiana’s packed gym. “You can’t hear yourself think at all out there. Everything is going so fast around you.

You just have to block that out and play the game you’ve been playing your whole life.”

Spencer did so with aplomb, scoring a game-high 18 points on 7-of-10 shooting from the floor and a perfect 4-of-4 from the line. The 6-foot-7 senior center also joined Trevor Wolterink and Jack Ellison with eight rebounds each to help the Knights to a 31-21 advantage on the glass.

“Boxing out and defense, that’s all we did in practice,” Spencer said.

“During practice Wednesday, I got hit in the nose. I had a bloody nose and a busted lip. It was pretty in-

Anajuwon Spencer who was bloodied in practice on Feb. 24, put up 18 points and hauled down eight rebounds against Illiana Christian to help Chicago Christian win its first regional title since 2008 on Friday night in Lansing.

tense.”

Spencer had two put-backs and Wolterink and Ellison one each in the first 10 minutes, during which the Knights raced to a 22-8 lead. The Vikings never got closer than seven points the rest of the way.

Asked about the put-backs, Spencer smiled, saying, “You demoralize the defense with those.”

Yet, he was equally pleased by the two free throws he hit 3:10 to play, evidenced by the fist-pump he allowed himself after the second fell through following two big hops off the rim to give the Knights a 51-42 edge.

He made two more with a minute left, further exorcising the ghost of the January loss to Illiana.

“I missed the go-ahead free throw, they put a put-back on us, I end up

When Marist’s Claire Austin popped in a dramatic 3-point basket with 4 minutes, 36 seconds left in the second quarter of last Thursday’s sectional game against Homewood-Flossmoor, it gave the RedHawks a 2220 lead.

H-F coach Tony Smith, who had been jumping around most of the night as if his underwear was on fire, called a timeout.

He likely told his troops to put the defensive clamps on the RedHawks. The Vikings didn’t listen right away and Marist was primed to do more damage with some open shots.

The problem for the Redhawks was that they were missing those easy shots and soon, the Vikings were back to their old tricks of tightening up the defense and creating steal- GIRLS BASKETBALL and-layup op- FINAL RECORDS por tunities.

The RedHawks Chicago Christian 8-20 12-15 went 8:10 be- Evergreen Park 24-9 fore scoring an- Marist other basket and Mother McAuley 17-14 by that time, the Oak Lawn 10-20 Vikings scored Queen of Peace 19-12 11 straight to Richards 19-5 take a 31-22 Sandburg 13-17 lead and ended Shepard 2-27 up winning the 3-25 E i s e n h o w e r Stagg Class 4A Sectional title with a 60-42 win in Blue Island.

“We beat ourselves,” Marist’s Claire Austin said. “We needed to make our short shots and free throws. I think we did OK on free throws, but our short shots were not good.’’

That brought the curtain down for the area on the 2015-16 girls basketball season.

Marist finished up playing a killer schedule with a 24-9 mark. Some of the losses came out of state as well as to state powers Marshall, Young, Evanston, New Trier and Benet Academy.

The RedHawks spread the scoring around against H-F (24-3) but no one scored in double figures. Tehya Fortune had nine points, Julia Ruzevich eight and Austin had seven points and nine rebounds.

Marist is one of just four teams from the area to rack up a .500 or better record this season. Richards, Queen of Peace and youthful Mother McAuley were the other three. The other six teams finished with losing records.

Marist and Queen of Peace were the only area teams to win regional titles as the RedHawks won the Oak Forest Regional while Queen of Peace won its own regional in Class 3A and has no seniors on its roster. Mother McAuley made it to its own regional final but lost out to Lincoln-Way East in overtime.

Richards was beaten in the first round of the regional by Bloom.

Photos by Jeff Vorva

Chicago Christian’s Daylon Washington hits a layup early in the Knights’ 59-48 victory over Illiana Christian Friday night for a regional title.

taking the last shot, a three to win that hit the rim and went off,” Spencer said. “This was big.”

So, too, Pittman said, was the loss.

“After they beat us at our place, that set us on a streak of losing four games in a row,” he said. “It really knocked us on our heels.

“I told my son (Kevin Pittman Jr.), ‘I’m glad they beat us. It’s tough to beat any team twice in one season.

But it’s impossible to beat them three times.’

“It was painful at the time, but I knew we’d grow from it.”

Some of the Knights have been growing together longer than others. Spencer, Woltering and Daylon Washington are in their third season together on the varsity, and this is their first with a winning record.

“This is something, with this core

group of seniors, we’ve been building toward for three years,” Pittman said. “They were terrific tonight.

They defended the places we wanted to defend and let some of the things go we thought they could.”

Wolterink and Washington contributed 15 and 13 points respectively, while Malik Parker added nine.

Illiana was led by Matthew Zandstra’s 11 points.

“Twenty wins, a conference championship, a regional championship — now on to the sectional and maybe state,” Washington said. “It’s a really good feeling.”

It broke a two-year skid for area boys basketball teams as no area team won regional titles in 2014 or 2015. Stagg was the last team to win a crown, taking a 4A regional title in 2013.

Photo by Jeff Vorva

Junior Claire Austin, a 6-foot center-forward from Marist, tries to defend 6-foot-5 Eva Rubin of Homewood-Flossmoor last Thursday in sectional play.

FOCUS ON BOYS BASKETBALL

Willis wows ’em with big 3-pointer in Richards’ win over Oak Lawn

By Jeff Vorva Sports Editor

A legend is born?

That’s still to be determined.

But Richards freshman Sean Willis made a legendary shot on Friday night and as a result, his team won a strange South Suburban Red title with a 74-68 victory over rival Oak Lawn.

Richards and Argo were on top of the conference with 8-3 marks with two games to go.

But on Feb. 19, Richards lost to Reavis and Argo lost to Oak Lawn.

So both teams took 8-4 records into their respective games and Argo was upset by Evergreen Park, 58-56.

The trouble for the Bulldogs is that they were struggling mightily against Oak Lawn Photo by Jeff Vorva in the third quarter as the Spartans hung 25 Richards freshman Sean Willis, shown talking to a referee earlier in the season, hit a big 3-point shot to help his team beat Oak Lawn and win points on them to take a 50-47 lead heading into the final eight minutes. the South Suburban Red title.

Oak Lawn, led by Rashad Johnson’s 21 points and Othman Othman’s 19 in the game, kept the lead for most of the final frame until Willis’s dramatic 3-pointer with 58 seconds gave the Bulldogs the lead and they piled on after that.

“What a big-time shot,” Richards coach Jevon Mamon told reporters after the game.

“I’m so proud of Sean.’’

Oak Lawn coach Jason Rhodes’ description of the shot to reporters was “Wow.’’ Mamon brought the 5-foot-7 freshman up to the varsity after the holiday break and earlier in the season praised the freshman’s basketball IQ. Guard Jaaron Coleman led the Bulldogs with 22 points, showing he is back in form after injuring his knee against Argo in late January.

It is Richards’ 10th conference title in 11 years. The Bulldogs won nine straight crowns but stumbled last year when Eisenhower claimed the title.

Conference chatter Richards and Chicago Chrstian were the only two area teams to win their conference.

Chicago Christian won the Metro Suburban East with an 11-1 mark, two games ahead of Illiana Christian and Ridgewood.

Brother Rice tied Seton for second in the Chicago Catholic League South with 6-3 marks. Mt. Carmel won the league with an 8-1 record.

Marist finished in a three-way tie for fourth place in the East Suburban Catholic Conference with Joliet Catholic and St. Viator. All three teams were 5-4. Benet and Marian Catholic tied for first with 8-1 marks.

Stagg had been flirting with first place early in the SouthWest Suburban Blue Conference when it won its first three games but fell to 7-7 to finish fifth. Homewood-Flossmoor won the conference championship with a 13-1 record.

4

Section 2 Thursday, March 3, 2016

The Regional News - The Reporter

FOCUS ON ST. XAVIER UNIVERSITY

Cougars basketball teams wait for national opponents

By Anthony Nasella Correspondent

St. Xavier University’s basketball teams spent the early part of this week in limbo.

The men’s and women’s basketball teams knew they were in their respective NAIA National Tournaments, but that was about all they knew. Times and opponents were not determined until Wednesday, after this paper’s deadline.

Both teams were eliminated from the Chicagoland Collegiate Athletic Conference in the semifinals over the weekend.

When the women’s basketball team held a two-point halftime lead against Olivet Nazarene University Friday night, Cougars head coach Bob Hallberg said his team played as good of a first half as it had all season.

The same couldn’t be said, however, for the second half, when No. 2 ranked St. Xavier committed 18 second-half turnovers and eventually dropped a disappointing 102-94 decision to the fast-paced Tigers at the Chicagoland Collegiate Athletic Conference Tournament to cap off regular-season play.

The Cougars (29-3) waited for five days for word of which team they’ll draw at next week’s NAIA Division II National Tournament in Sioux City, Iowa, that begins Wednesday.

“All teams that reach the national tournament have a record of 0-0,” Hallberg said. “It doesn’t make a difference how you got there or what your record was. When you’re in that first-round game, you can’t afford look any further than that game.

“We’ll see if we can win the first game and survive to the next night. If we lose, we’re back on the bus to Chicago. It’s very important to get that first game under your belt; you can’t have a bad game. If you miss free throws, commit too many turnovers, or suffer bad shooting — your season is over.”

Against Olivet, junior guard Mikayla Layden and sophomore guard Kara Krolicki each scored 19 points to lead St. Xavier.

“Aside from the box score, all of the fans said that it my 16 years here that it was the most exciting basketball game they ever witnessed,” he said. “It was fast paced women’s basketball with two great teams. We played as great of a first half as any game we’ve played

St. Xavier University’s Larry Motuzis (left) and Mikayla Leyden and their respective teams will be heading to the NAIA National Tournament next week.

this season.”

There’s another challenge that the team is still battling to overcome — how to compensate the loss of junior forward Sarah Vozel, who suffered a season-ending ACL injury in the team’s recent defeat to Cardinal Stritch.

“We’re still struggling to find an adequate replacement for Sarah,” he said.

“Losing her has hurt us. It’s not that the rest of the players are not capable of stepping up, but she meant so much to the team. She’s very hard to replace, and we’re struggling to be as good as we were.”

The men also played the waiting game after the third-seeded Cougars were knocked out of the tourney in the semifinals Saturday, 71-69, to seventhseeded Indiana University-South Bend.

A short jumper by senior guard Riley Stichter with one second left in regulation proved to be the game-winner. The Cougars (19-12 overall) tied the game, 69-69, on a jumper by senior forward Mitch Uratchko (Streator/Mid-State Tech/Sauk Valley CC/Streator) with 30 seconds remaining, but Indiana con-

trolled the final possession and had an inbounds play under the basket with three seconds left to set up the gamewinning shot. Sophomore guard Larry Motuzis (Darien/Hinsdale South) led all scorers in the game with 25 points for SXU off 9-for-18 shooting from the field.

Saint Xavier earned one of the conference’s three automatic bids to the NAIA Division II National Championship and waited for Wednesday’s announcement.

Barry very good

Saint Xavier junior outside hitter Sean Barry (Wilmette/Loyola Academy) was named the Chicagoland Collegiate Athletic Conference (CCAC) Men’s Volleyball Player of the Week last week.

Barry was recognized for his .267 hitting percentage and 5.4 kills per set average in SXU’s 2-1 play during a stretch in late February. He also averaged 2.7 digs and 0.7 blocks over three matches. With the conference recognizing men’s volleyball as a var-

sity sport for the first time this season, Barry becomes the first Saint Xavier University player to earn the weekly award under its current name.

Barry recorded double-figure kill totals in each of his team’s three contests topped by his 26 against Marian (Wis.), where he also produced three aces, 25 receptions and five block assists. The 26 kills against Marian (Wis.) set a single match school record for the program surpassing the old mark of 23 kills set by former standout Evan Muys back on March 30, 2012.

SXU to host NAIA showcase in July

Saint Xavier will serve as one of three host sites for the NAIA Showcase recruiting events, now in its third year, this July. The Kansas City, Chicago and Atlanta metro areas will host a total of 21 showcases designed to connect high school and junior college athletes with NAIA coaches.

“This is a wonderful event to host at our University,” said SXU Athletic Director Bob Hallberg. “We could

Photos by Jeff Vorva

have hundreds of potential Saint Xavier University students from across the country descending on our beautiful campus and city. Once they see our facilities and the opportunities that our University can offer them, they may just decide to enroll here, even just as students.”

These events have connected more than 800 prospective students and their parents with NAIA coaches since launching in 2014. In 2015, 180 coaches representing 60 NAIA schools made more than 150 on-site scholarship offers to participants during the Showcase events in football, baseball, softball, men’s and women’s basketball and men’s and women’s soccer.

In addition to athletes showing their individual skills with sport-specific performance drills developed by NAIA coaches, attendees learn about NAIA recruiting, eligibility rules and scholarships. Presentations on NAIA character initiatives and opportunities to visit with admissions representatives from NAIA schools are included at every showcase.

FOCUS ON TRINITY CHRISTIAN

Trolls open baseball season winning three out of four Trinity Christian College opened its baseball season winning three out of four games on the road against Brescia University in Owensboro, Kentucky on Friday and Saturday.

The Trolls started with 4-0 and 7-1 victories on Friday and picked up a 5-4 extra inning victory in the first game on Saturday before losing 3-2 in the bottom of the seventh in the final game.

In Friday’s opener, the Trolls had eight hits by eight different players. Five of those hits came in the first inning in which the team scored three runs. The team kept their 3-0 lead until the sixth inning when they tacked on one more run. They kept Brescia off the base path as pitcher Tanner Reklaitis, who pitched the complete game, recorded 13 strikeouts and allowed only two hits.

The Trolls started the second game in much the same fashion as the first game as they had the majority of the hits and scored three runs in the opening inning. Mike Levigne picked up

the win on the mound with eight strikeouts in six innings. Trinity ended the game with eight hits while Brescia had two. Tyler Sroczynsi, Kyle VanKalker, and Zack Jones each had two hits and Jones registered three RBI. The next day, the two teams were knotted at 4-4 after eight innings and Sroczynski opened the ninth with a single and a stolen base and scored on a RBI single by Blake Kerzich. Brescia got one runner on base in the bottom half, but Trinity held them for the win.The Trolls had 11 hits for the game with Sroczynski posting three and Jones getting two. The team had four pitchers on the game with Jones finishing out the final two innings for the win.

In the lone loss, the Trolls gave up a passed ball in the seventh inning for the deciding run.

Brent Kiesel took the loss.

Trinity will play next at home in doubleheaders with Goshen College on Friday and Saturday.

Compiled by Jeff Vorva from submitted reports

FOCUS ON MORAINE VALLEY

Photos by Jeff Vorva

Left photo: Moraine Valley’s Erin Drynan (left, with her arms up) finished the season as the No. 1 shot blocker in the nation among junior college Division II players. Above: Michelle Borgen drives for a basket during a game this season.

Double Duo

Continued from Page 1 blocked shots per game. She was ranked No. 1 in the nation in NJCAA Division II play with 191 blocks and No. 2 in rebounds with 404.

Borgen was also taken aback by her numbers as she averaged 21 points and 13 rebounds per contest. She was seventh in the nation with 610 points and 12th with 333 rebounds. She was also No. 1 in the nation with 199 free throws.

“To be honest, I wasn’t expecting this type of season,” Borgen said. “This is a

much higher level than high school. But playing with Erin and having us do so well was the most fun I’ve ever had playing. We didn’t win a lot in high school and this was great.’’

So far, bigger schools are not knocking on either star’s doors yet.

“We’re returning a lot of freshmen and I think we can really go far next year,” Borgen said. “I would rather play with a team that should have success rather than risk going somewhere else and losing.’’

Drynan has a method to her successful blocking.

“You have to stay on your feet and it helps that I have long arms,” Drynan said.

Speaking of long arms, she comes from

a basketball family with some pretty long arms. Her twin brothers , juniors Patrick and Mike, play for Evergreen Park and were listed at 6-10 and 6-8 respectively at the beginning of the season.

“They are almost 7-feet tall,” she said. “I was always taller than them until they got into high school. I used to beat them all the time. Now, I usually always lose against them because they just dunk on me.’’

Their father, Tom, played at Brother Rice and was a walk-on at the University of Illinois in the Lou Henson era.

“Basketball was passed down to my brothers and me,” Erin said.

And she didn’t try to swat it away.

Both basketball teams see their seasons come to an end Moraine Valley Community College’s two basketball teams had their seasons come to an end over the weekend.

Having to face Waubonsee Community College for a third time Saturday, in the NJCAA Region IV semifinals, the Cyclones dropped a 70-59 decision.

The Cyclones jumped out to a 17-11 lead at the end of the first quarter, but Waubonsee caught up and passed them in the second and Moraine was never able to get the lead back.

Erin Drynan led the final effort with her 23rd double-double at 15 points and 11 rebounds along with four blocks. Michelle Borgen ended with 14 points and 11 rebounds — her 22nd doubledouble. Ashley Carroll chipped

in 12 points and eight rebounds.

In their quest to prolong the season after winning the Skyway Conference title on Feb. 18, the Cyclones men’s team was dealt an 82-76 loss to Black Hawk East College in the NJCAA Region IV semifinals Sunday.

Ermias Nega played one of his best games this season, with 30 points and five rebounds. It was the fifth time he scored 30 or more points this season. He went 11-for-17 from the field.

Tommy Demogerontas had 15 points and six boards.

The Cyclones closed the campaign with a 16-15 mark.

Compiled by Jeff Vorva from submitted reports

The Regional News - The Reporter

Thursday, March 3, 2016 Section 2

Images from a winter sports season that’s winding down Marist’s Kate Ruzevich (left) picks up her twin sister, Julia after Julia took a charge in the sectional semifinals against Lincoln-Way North on Feb. 22.

Mother McAuley’s Tara O’Malley gets ready to fire a shot in the 3-point shooting contest at the Eisenhower Sectional last Thursday.

Chicago Christian coach Kevin Pittman has some words of wisdom for Malik Parker toward the end of the Knights’ regional title win over host Illiana Christian on Friday night.

Photos by Jeff Vorva

Homewood-Flossmoor coach Tony Smith’s tie gets a workout in the Vikings sectional title win over Marist last Thursday.

The Chicago Christian crowd was beside itself all night Friday at the Class 2A Illiana Christian Regional. Here, it is going nuts at halftime over a cheerleading contest.

Brother Rice’s Dominick Capron beat Montini’s Peter Christiansen in a wild 17-13 match on Feb. 23 but the Crusaders lost the Class 3A Argo Sectional dual, 41-21.

A Marmion wrestler does some gymnastics minutes before his team beat Sandburg in sectional play on Feb. 23.

5

6

Section 2 Thursday, March 3, 2016

The Regional News - The Reporter

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7

Section 2 Thursday, March 3, 2016

The Regional News - The Reporter

BUYING OR SELLING?

For Sale

Put 42 years to work 34 years with RE/MAX

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF COOK COUNTY, ILLINOIS COUNTY DEPARTMENT - CHANCERY DIVISION U.S. BANK TRUST, N.A., AS TRUSTEE FOR LSF9 MASTER PARTICIPATION TRUST Plaintiff, -v.DAVID E. ANDERSON A/K/A DAVID C. ANDERSON, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA, ARLEEN ANDERSON, EMJSOC, INC. F/K/A SENERGY OF CHICAGO, INC., SPRINGLEAF FINANCIAL SERVICES OF ILLINOIS, INC. F/K/A AMERICAN GENERAL FINANCIAL SERVICES OF ILLINOIS, INC., VILLAGE OF SCHILLER PARK, AN ILLINOIS MUNICIPAL CORPORATION, MIDLAND FUNDING, LLC, IRWIN COMMERCIAL FINANCE CORP., EQUIPMENT FINANCE, MIDLOTHIAN COUNTRY CLUB Defendants 13 CH 11441 6006 WEST 124TH STREET Palos Heights, IL 60463 NOTICE OF SALE PUBLIC NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale entered in the above cause on January 4, 2016, an agent for The Judicial Sales Corporation, will at 10:30 AM on April 5, 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 6006 WEST 124TH STREET, Palos Heights, IL 60463 Property Index No. 24-29-309-009-0000.

The real estate is improved with a single family residence.

The judgment amount was $144,540.78.

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.

Where a sale of real estate is made to satisfy a lien prior to that of the United States, the United States shall have one year from the date of sale within which to redeem, except that with respect to a lien arising under the internal revenue laws the period shall be 120 days or the period allowable for redemption under State law, whichever is longer, and in any case in which, under the provisions of section 505 of the Housing Act of 1950, as amended (12 U.S.C. 1701k), and subsection (d) of section 3720 of title 38 of the United States Code, the right to redeem does not arise, there shall be no right of redemption.

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

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

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

For information, 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 13-066880.

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 E-Mail: ILNotices@logs.com Attorney File No. 13-066880 Attorney Code. 42168 Case Number: 13 CH 11441 TJSC#: 36-1218 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.

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For Sale IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF COOK COUNTY, ILLINOIS COUNTY DEPARTMENT - CHANCERY DIVISION HSBC BANK USA, NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, AS TRUSTEE FOR NOMURA HOME EQUITY LOAN, INC., ASSET-BACKED CERTIFICATES, SERIES 2006-FM2 Plaintiff, -v.DARLENE M. MANOS, STATE OF ILLINOIS, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA, COLONIAL HEIGHTS, TOWNHOMES ASSOCIATION, INC., UNKNOWN OWNERS AND NONRECORD CLAIMANTS Defendants 15 CH 005376 28 PARLIAMENT DRIVE PALOS HEIGHTS, IL 60463 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 March 22, 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 28 PARLIAMENT DRIVE, PALOS HEIGHTS, IL 60463 Property Index No. 23-24-300-053-0000. The real estate is improved with a condo/townhouse. Sale terms: 25% down of the highest bid by certified funds at the close of the sale payable to The Judicial Sales Corporation. No third party checks will be accepted. The balance, 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. Where a sale of real estate is made to satisfy a lien prior to that of the United States, the United States shall have one year from the date of sale within which to redeem, except that with respect to a lien arising under the internal revenue laws the period shall be 120 days or the period allowable for redemption under State law, whichever is longer, and in any case in which, under the provisions of section 505 of the Housing Act of 1950, as amended (12 U.S.C. 1701k), and subsection (d) of section 3720 of title 38 of the United States Code, the right to redeem does not arise, there shall be no right of redemption.

The property will NOT be open for inspection and plaintiff makes no representation as to the condition of the property. Prospective bidders are admonished to check the court file to verify all information. If this property is a condominium unit, the purchaser of the unit at the foreclosure sale, other than a mortgagee, shall pay the assessments and the legal fees required by The Condominium Property Act, 765 ILCS 605/9(g)(1) and (g)(4). If this property is a condominium unit which is part of a common interest community, the purchaser of the unit at the foreclosure sale other than a mortgagee shall pay the assessments required by The Condominium Property Act, 765 ILCS 605/18.5(g-1). IF YOU ARE THE MORTGAGOR (HOMEOWNER), YOU HAVE THE RIGHT TO REMAIN IN POSSESSION FOR 30 DAYS AFTER ENTRY OF AN ORDER OF POSSESSION, IN ACCORDANCE WITH SECTION 15-1701(C) OF THE ILLINOIS MORTGAGE FORECLOSURE LAW. You will need a photo identification issued by a government agency (driver’s license, passport, etc.) in order to gain entry into our building and the foreclosure sale room in Cook County and the same identification for sales held at other county venues where The Judicial Sales Corporation conducts foreclosure sales. For information, examine the court file or contact Plaintiff’s attorney: CODILIS & ASSOCIATES, P.C., 15W030 NORTH FRONTAGE ROAD, SUITE 100, BURR RIDGE, IL 60527, (630) 794-9876 Please refer to file number 14-15-04679. THE JUDICIAL SALES CORPORATION One South Wacker Drive, 24th Floor, Chicago, IL 60606-4650 (312) 236-SALE You can also visit The Judicial Sales Corporation at www. tjsc.com for a 7 day status report of pending sales.

CODILIS & ASSOCIATES, P.C. 15W030 NORTH FRONTAGE ROAD, SUITE 100 BURR RIDGE, IL 60527 (630) 794-5300 E-Mail: pleadings@il.cslegal. com Attorney File No. 14-15-04679 Attorney ARDC No. 00468002 Attorney Code. 21762 Case Number: 15 CH 005376 TJSC#: 36-2079 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.

I685529

For Sale IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF COOK COUNTY, ILLINOIS COUNTY DEPARTMENT - CHANCERY DIVISION JPMORGAN CHASE BANK, NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, SUCCESSOR IN INTEREST BY PURCHASE FROM THE FEDERAL DEPOSIT INSURANCE CORPORATION AS RECEIVER OF WASHINGTON MUTUAL BANK FKA WASHINGTON MUTUAL BANK, FA Plaintiff, -v.JOZEF HARMATA AKA JOSEF HARMATA, CITY OF CHICAGO, MIDLAND FUNDING LLC Defendants 15 CH 02663 10210 S. 86th Ave. 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 7, 2015, an agent for The Judicial Sales Corporation, will at 10:30 AM on April 5, 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 10210 S. 86th Ave., Palos Hills, IL 60465 Property Index No. 23-11-306-013-0000.

The real estate is improved with a single family residence.

The judgment amount was $237,883.71.

Sale terms: 25% down of the highest bid by certified funds at the close of the sale payable to The Judicial Sales Corporation. No third party checks will be accepted. The balance, including the Judicial sale fee for Abandoned Residential Property Municipality Relief Fund, which is calculated on residential real estate at the rate of $1 for each $1,000 or fraction thereof of the amount paid by the purchaser not to exceed $300, in certified funds/or wire transfer, is due within twenty-four (24) hours.

No fee shall be paid by the mortgagee acquiring the residential real estate pursuant to its credit bid at the sale or by any mortgagee, judgment creditor, or other lienor acquiring the residential real estate whose rights in and to the residential real estate arose prior to the sale. The subject property is subject to general real estate taxes, special assessments, or special taxes levied against said real estate and is offered for sale without any representation as to quality or quantity of title and without recourse to Plaintiff and in AS IS condition. The sale is further subject to confirmation by the court.

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

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

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

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

For information, contact Plaintiff s attorney: HEAVNER, BEYERS & MIHLAR, LLC, 111 East Main Street, DECATUR, IL 62523, (217) 422-1719 If the sale is not confirmed for any reason, the Purchaser at the sale shall be entitled only to a return of the purchase price paid. The Purchaser shall have no further recourse against the Mortgagor, the Mortgagee or the Mortgagee s attorney.

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

HEAVNER, BEYERS & MIHLAR, LLC 111 East Main Street DECATUR, IL 62523 (217) 422-1719 CookPleadings@hsbattys.com Attorney Code. 40387 Case Number: 15 CH 02663 TJSC#: 36-1882 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.

34

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NEW as of 7/7/11 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 Tuesday, March 29, 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.

INTERCOUNTY JUDICIAL SALES CORPORATION Selling Officer, (312) 444-1122 I685738

Lovely 4 bdrm CRYSTAL split level with basement on 3/4 Rareacre ten room patio site in the home overlooking LAST Park.

Large famgolf course location. ily room, luxuriMain floor master, two ous master suite. bedrooms up, and 4th 2 1/2 baths. bedroom in full finished walkout.

Value price at $419,900 $399,900

TREE

Cell: (708) 269-0490 www.SharonKubasak.com 14340 S. LaGrange Road, Orland Park, IL 60462 Sharon Kubasak

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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 Rent

OFFICE/STORE FRONT 750 sq.ft with water, gas, electric included $800 per month 9241 S. Roberts Rd. Hickory Hills

708-745-4761

DO YOU HAVE A HOUSE FOR SALE? CALL TO PLACE YOUR AD TODAY! (708) 448-4000

Donate Your Real Estate...

You don’t have to donate a kidney to save a life. ‡ :H ZLOO DFFHSW DQ\ W\SH RI SURSHUW\ ‡ WD[ GHGXFWLEOH ‡ 0DWFKLQJ'RQRUV FRP LV D & QRQSURILW RUJDQL]DWLRQ

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PUBLISHER’S NOTICE

Call us at 1.800.385.0422 Or donate on line at:

MatchingDonors.com

All Real Estate advertising in this newspaper is subject to the Fair Housing Act which makes it illegal to advertise “any preference, limitation or discrimination.� Familial status includes children under the age of 18 living with parents or legal custodians, pregnant women and people securing custody of children under 18.

This newspaper will not knowingly accept any advertising for real estate which is in violation of the law. Our readers are hereby informed that all dwellings advertised in this newspaper are available on an equal opportunity basis. To complain of discrimination call HUD toll-free at 1 (800) 669-9777. The toll-free telephone number for the hearing impaired is: 1 (800) 927-9275.

8

Section 2 Thursday, March 3, 2016

The Regional News - The Reporter

Help Wanted

Estate Sale

Palos Heights Estate Sale 12244 Flambeau Dr. Friday March 4 9-3 Saturday March 5 9-3 Vintage furniture, pool table, kitchen, decorative household, garage and garden items and much more Help Wanted

Part-Time Office Manager/ Bookkeeper

2-3 days/week. Quickbooks experience required. Organizational and phone skills a must. We are a local family owned business.

Send resume to: office@ williamquinnandsons.com or apply in person.

3860 W. 127th St. Alsip, IL 60803 Help Wanted

PART TIME PRESSMAN

Experienced pressman needed to operate a Goss Community press part time.

20-30 hours per week.

Day shift.

Please email resumes to

Amy Richards at arichards@regionalpublishing.com or call Southwest Regional Publishing at

708-448-4000

ADVERTISING SALES EXECUTIVE WANTED Southwest Regional Publishing and Southwest Community News Group is seeking an Advertising Sales Representative.

The Sales Representative will prospect and cold call in addition to maintaining established accounts.

THE SUCCESSFUL CANDIDATE WILL: • Have 2-5 years proven outside sales experience and customer retention • Be highly self-motivated, competitive and organized • Have the ability to hit the ground running • Have proven ability to close sales on a one to two call cycle WE ALSO LOOK FOR CANDIDATES TO DISPLAY: • Drive and Energy • The ability to succeed in a fast paced, deadline oriented environment • The ability to multi-task • An outgoing personality WE OFFER: • Competitive salary plus commission • High earnings potential

PLEASE FAX OR E-MAIL RESUME TO AMY RICHARDS: 12243 South Harlem Ave., Palos Heights, IL 60463 Phone: 708-448-4000 • Fax: 708-448-4160

arichards@regionalpublishing.com

Help Wanted

For Sale

South Suburban law firm seeking full time

2007 Cadillac CTS

with outstanding proofreading and organizational skills to do work for multiple attorneys.

Must have experience with transcribing and organizing pleadings, discovery and correspondence and must be proficient in Microsoft Office.

Knowledge of Federal and State court electronic filing systems required. Use of ProLaw a plus.

708-361-8864

LITIGATION SECRETARY

Please email resumes to: ffrazier@odelsonsterk.com

4 door, 2 wd/4 wd Excellent condition Low mileage Call for information

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

OUT & ABOUT

The Regional News • The Reporter

Thursday, March 3, 2016

PINTO’S POPCORN PICKS

Nothing new in predictable ‘Eddie The Eagle’ sports film TONY PINTO “Eddie The Eagle” is an unoriginal sports movie. With minor tweaks and changes this could basically become every sports movie ever made. The underdog faces triumphs and tribulations followed by some kind of big achievement.

This movie is “Cool Runnings” but with a British ski jumper instead of Jamaican bob sledders.

For those still interested this is the tale of an underdog athlete who makes his way to the 1988 Winter Olympics in Calgary. The first part is true but the part where he gets help from a former American sporting great who’s now languishing in disgrace is untrue and a fabrication for the movie.

Hugh Jackman plays the made up Bronson Peary, the bad-boy American who becomes the reluctant coach. His rebellious streak is shown through the shorthand of him constantly smoking and sipping from his flask.

Jackman’s character may not be the lead, but his character brings a much needed sense of edge and charisma. It may be cringe-worthy charisma as he compares a ski jump takeoff to sex complete with fake orgasm sounds. It’s not as if these scenes work well, but they, or better yet different scenes, are needed to show the title character’s childlike nature.

STARTING THIS WEEK:

“CREED’’: The “Rocky’’ saga continues with a surprising degree of impact in director Ryan Coogler’s solid and re-energizing continuation of the franchise, focusing on the boxing-hopeful son (Michael B. Jordan, who also worked with Coogler on “Fruitvale Station’’) of Apollo Creed ... but the film also is trained on Rocky Balboa (Sylvester Stallone, amply and properly rewarded on the awards trail for his excellent work here), who faces new challenges of his own as he becomes the younger man’s trainer. Tessa Thompson and Phylicia Rashad also give notable performances, but the film clearly belongs to Jordan and Stallone - with an especially hearty “Yo!’’ to the latter. *** (PG-13: AS, P, V) (Also on Blu-ray and On Demand) “ROOM’’: Director Lenny Abrahamson’s engrossing drama has put a very bright spotlight — particularly during the movie industry’s award season — on Brie Larson and young Jacob Tremblay, both superb as a mother and son held captive in one room for years.

After such a long stretch of isolation from the rest of the world, they map out a strategy for their escape, setting up the powerful second half of the film. Emma Donoghue adapted her novel for the screen, also providing roles for Joan Allen, Sean Bridgers (as the captor), William H. Macy and Wendy Crewson ... but this unquestionably, and justifiably, is a star-making vehicle for both Larson and Tremblay. **** (R: AS, P) (Also on Blu-ray and On Demand) “THE DANISH GIRL’’: After his Oscar win for “The Theory of Everything,’’ Eddie Redmayne took on another challenging role and gave another widely praised performance in the true drama of one of the first men to undergo sexreassignment surgery. Landscape artist Einar Wegener becomes Lili Elbe, necessitating changes in her relationship with wife and fellow painter Gerda Wegener (Alicia Vikander) — who finds herself on the verge of a romance with an

BROADEN YOUR HORIZONS THIS WEEK Tuesday luncheon: Midway Airport

Midway Airport is the topic at a Tuesday luncheon on March 8, from noon to 2 p.m., at The Center, 12700 Southwest Highway, Palos Park.

Local author, pilot, and aviation history enthusiast David Kent will discuss the history of Midway Airport, including memories of the observation deck where people stood to watch in awe and wonder as the roaring planes took off and landed. Kent will show old photos and tell interesting facts dating back to the airport’s beginnings in the 1920’s, tracing the story of how this one square mile of land became the world’s busiest airport for over 30 years.

The luncheon costs $20 per person and requires advance reservations. Call The Center at 361-3650.

8, students will learn how to make delicious fajitas with fresh ingredients.

• Pizza & Post-It Art - 4 to 5 p.m. March 9, will challenge students to get creative and make a mural out of post-it notes, then sit down to chat with friends and eat pizza.

• Beaded Friendship Bracelets - 4 to 6 p.m. March 10, students will get the chance to make a special friendship bracelet for a friend.

• Build Your Own City - 4 to 6 p.m. March 10, students will learn about community development, then get the chance to sketch out blue prints for their own city.

• March Madness - 7:30 to 10:30 p.m. March 11, Students are encouraged to wear their favorite sports jersey. Free food will be provided by Jimmy John’s.

These free events are for teens in 7th through 12th grade. For more information call 532-0500.

Kids’ Knitting Club Taron Egerton and Hugh Jackman star in “Eddie The Eagle.”

The movie stars Taron Egerton (Kingsman: The Secret Service) as Michael “Eddie” Edwards, a working-class weakling of a Brit with knee and leg aliments who has the dream of becoming an Olympian. He just wants his Olympic moment. After a montage of failed track and field mishaps and many broken glasses, Eddie decides he is not an Olympian.

He comes to the conclusion he is a Winter Olympian. Surprisingly, Eddie becomes a solid downhill skier after turning his attention to the winter games.

The problem for Eddie is he is not good looking enough. He is not Olympic material as the Brits in charge tell him. From his average look to his modest background, the people in charge of the British Olympic committee try to keep him out of the games. He is not “sponsor friendly,” so he’s told.

Eddie eventually sets his sights on becoming the first British ski jumper since the 1920’s.

The film has quite a few flaws, the biggest being the person at the center of the film. Eddie “The

Eagle” Edwards, is ironically the least fleshed out character of the film. He is such a simplistic character; he doesn’t seem human at times. Taron plays him goofy to the point that this character, who should be endearing, actually becomes off putting.

For those who can’t figure out how this movie ends, this writer won’t ruin it for you. This film does include a surprise cameo by Christopher Walken as a legendary coach who wrote the book on ski jumping. They actually show the book with his face on the cover multiple times, so it’s not actually that big a surprise when he shows up.

From the ads and trailers this seems like an uplifting story kids of all ages would enjoy, which is not the case. This writer doesn’t know who the demographic for this film is, but it could be you if you like cliché filled films with cheesy ‘80’s montages, complete with bold colors and a synth soundtrack featuring Van Halen, Hall & Oates and other ‘80’s favorites.

Tony Pinto’s grade: C-

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.)

Southwest • Section 2, Page 9

art-dealer friend (Matthias Schoenaerts). Director Tom Hooper’s cast also includes Ben Whishaw (alias Q to Daniel Craig’s James Bond), Sebastian Koch and Amber Heard. **** (R: AS, N. P) (Also on Bluray and On Demand) “YOUTH’’: Expert acting by several masters of it, led by Michael Caine and Harvey Keitel, is the principal joy of writer-director Paolo Sorrentino’s drama. The two stars play entertainment talents vacationing at a resort in the Alps and viewing their careers different — with the filmmaker played by Caine still very active, and the musician portrayed by Keitel considering himself retired, though he’s still in demand. Also highly notable is Jane Fonda as a veteran actress who has worked with the Caine character many times. Rachel Weisz and Paul Dano also are featured. *** (R: AS, N, P) (Also on Blu-ray) “THE NIGHT BEFORE’’: To the long line of contemporary comedies that try to put an amusing take on the end-of-year holidays but ultimately misfire, add this example. Seth Rogen, Joseph Gordon-Levitt, Anthony Mackie play buddies who seek the biggest party they can find on Christmas Eve. It’s long been an annual ritual for them, but it’s about to vanish as they (allegedly) become adults, so finding the wildest bash they can is imperative. Those familiar with the Rogen brand of humor certainly will find it here, especially since he’s also one of the picture’s producers; Lizzy Caplan (“Masters of Sex’’), Mindy Kaling, Jillian Bell (“22 Jump Street’’) and Michael Shannon also appear. DVD extras: four “making-of’’ documentaries; outtakes. ** (R: AS, N, P) (Also on Blu-ray and On Demand) “LEGEND’’: The story of the Krays, the twin brothers who made names for themselves in the 1960s London underworld, has been told on the screen before — but it gets fresh treatment from an able Tom Hardy in the dual roles in this retelling by director-screenwriter Brian Helgeland (“L.A. Confidential’’). Reggie and Ronnie Kray’s reign is seen from the perspective of Frances Shea (Emily Browning), whose involvement with Reggie gave her a unique view of their psyches and frequently violent activities. Christopher Eccleston, Colin Morgan and Tara Fitzgerald are in the supporting cast. *** (R: AS, P, V) (Also on Blu-ray and On Demand)

COMING SOON:

“MACBETH’’ (March 8): Michael Fassbender portrays Shakespeare’s legendary character in this latest of the play’s screen adaptations; Marion Cotillard plays Lady Macbeth. (R: AS, V) “IN THE HEART OF THE SEA’’ (March 8): The Ron Howard-directed drama re-creates the true whaling-ship crisis that inspired Herman Melville to write “Moby Dick’’; Chris Hemsworth stars. (PG-13: AS, V) “OPEN SEASON: SCARED SILLY’’ (March 8): The supposed presence of a werewolf puts the residents of a forest — human and otherwise — on edge in this animated, direct-to-video sequel.

(Not rated) “THE PEANUTS MOVIE’’ (March 8): Snoopy goes after the Red Baron again, while Charlie Brown deals with another affair of the heart, in this computeranimated feature. (G) “FREAKS AND GEEKS: THE COMPLETE SERIES’’ (March 22): The cult-classic show, about a Detroit high school circa 1980, makes its Blu-ray debut and features Seth Rogen and James Franco. (Not rated: AS, P) “THE HUNGER GAMES: MOCKINGJAY — PART 2’’ (March 22): The movie franchise concludes as Katniss (Jennifer Lawrence) targets her society’s leader ... who’s also targeting her.

(PG-13: AS, P, V) FAMILY-VIEWING GUIDE KEY: AS, adult situations; N, nudity; P, profanity; V, violence; GV, particularly graphic violence.

A new kids’ knitting club for children in grades 5 and up will hold its first meeting on Monday, March 7, from 5 to 6:30 p.m. at The Log Cabin Center for the Arts, 12700 Southwest Highway in Palos Park.

Instructor Georgann Ring invites any interested knitters who know how to make the knit stitch to join the new group which meets on the first Monday of each month. Members will choose their own projects to expand their skills and supply their own materials. At the first meeting kids should bring something they are currently working on or an idea and supplies for a new project.

The club costs $5 per meeting. Advanced registration is required. Call 361-3650 to register by phone.

UPCOMING Easter basket workshop

An Easter Basket Weaving Workshop will be held at The Log Cabin Center for the Arts on Saturday, March 12, from 10 a.m. - 2 p.m., at 12700 Southwest Highway in Palos Park.

Instructor Lois Shive invites you to come and create this Easter Basket with no previous experience required. The cost of this class is $42, which includes all supplies. Advanced registration is required by calling 361-3650.

Second Saturday Art Show

A Second Saturday Art Show will be held at The Log Cabin Center for the Arts, 12700 Southwest Family Art: Easter Bunny Sculptures Highway Palos Park on Saturday, March 12, from A ceramic sculpture class for families will be 4 to 6 p.m. hosted at the Log Cabin Center for the Arts on This is a free and family friendly art show feaWednesdays, March 9 and 16, from 6 to 7 p.m. turing a variety of artwork created by teachers and The Log Cabin Art Center is at 12700 Southwest students of The Log Cabin Center for the Arts. Art Highway in Palos Park. work will be on display and for sale. RefreshInstructor Heather Young invites families with ments will be served and the public is invited. children of any age to make colorful ceramic rabbit For more information call 361-3650. sculptures on March 9. Families will come back to glaze their creations on March 16. The class fee is $20 per person and includes all supplies and two New Class: Fairy Tales kiln firings. Advance registration is required. Call and the Second Half of Life The Center at 361-3650.

Fairy Tales and the Second Half of Life is the topic of a discussion class at The Center, 12700 Southwest Highway, Palos Park, on six Wednesdays, The Bridge Teen Center programs • Improv Night & High School After Hours - 7:30 beginning March 9, from 9 to 10:30 a.m.

The class will explore “what happens in the everto 10:30 p.m. March 4, The Bridge Teen Center, 15555 S. 71st Court, Orland Park, students are in- after when the hero and heroine have children of their vited to an Improv Night hosted by Andrew High own and white hair crowns the prince and princess.”

School’s Drama Club. In addition to the Improv set, The group is facilitated by the Rev. Debora-Ellen students will enjoy live music from singer/songwriter Brown, an interfaith minister who invites participants Christal Luster. High School students are welcome to reflect upon, discuss, and bless the tasks of the to stay for extended hours (10:30 p.m.-midnight). second half of life, using Allan B. Chinen’s book, “In the Ever After: Fairy Tales and the Second Free food will be provided by Famous Dave’s.

• Design a Dress - 4 to 5:30 p.m. March 8, a Half of Life.”

Everyone is welcome. The six-week class program with Pink Slip Boutique to teach students how to design a dress. Students will sketch out a costs $54 and requires pre-registration. Purchasing the book online or at a local store is recommended dress design and see it come to life.

• Bridge Cocina Fajitas - 4 to 5:30 p.m. March but not required. Call The Center at 361-3650.

OMARR’S WEEKLY ASTROLOGICAL FORECAST

By Jeraldine Saunders ARIES (March 21-April 19): You understand the nuances of networking. In the week ahead it will be easy to widen your sphere of influence by participating in group activities. Your net worth will increase in the workplace due to your friendliness.

TAURUS (April 20-May 20): Business tactics and a teamwork approach trump fantasies. Your ability to lead others is inspired and wise in the week to come so don’t be afraid to open up a dialog. Launch a new project or plan with a trusted partner.

GEMINI (May 21-June 20): It isn’t what you think, but what other people think about you that count. In the week ahead be sure to honor your obligations and live up to your promises. Family members can offer a safe haven and sound advice.

CANCER (June 21-July 22): You will never be last if you put others first. Your companions may act like divas or primp like superstars while you are content to just accept your place in the world. Take your place in line in the week to come.

LEO (July 23-Aug. 22): The holidays are long gone but visions of sugarplums could be dancing in your head. Your dreams of material success can easily become a reality as this week unfolds. You have the shrewdness to see past the spin and fluff.

VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22): Fame is the name of the game.

In the week to come your good deeds or leadership abilities could earn you some positive press. Your entrepreneurial skills and judgment about financial matters could be better than usual.

LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 22): Focus on friendliness. You may start out the week feeling less than attractive, but your cheerfulness and idealism in the face of adversity will bring new admirers. Join in when groups form for a worthy common purpose.

SCORPIO (Oct. 23-Nov. 21): Stretch the dollars like elastic bands. In the week to come your penny pinching ways will pay off.

You may find creative ways to make more money or to make your money work for you. Achieve worthy goals.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21): Tomorrow is another day. You could feel that the world is against you but as the days go by everything will look much better. Wait until at least the middle of the week to make crucial decisions or changes.

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19): You can be a good motivator and strong negotiator in the week ahead. Although you may start off with selfish motives or a cynical viewpoint you could finish up as the most generous person in the room.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18): Some people take offense when subjected to a “back seat” driver. Do your best to avoid giving unasked for advice in the week ahead. Focus on being friendly and diplomatically helpful without offering criticism.

PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20): There will be light at the end of the tunnel. You may feel pressured to perform at your best even though you are in the dark where your partner’s motives are concerned.

Keep your attention trained worthy goals this week.

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

OUT & ABOUT

The Regional News • The Reporter

Thursday, March 3, 2016

Supplied photo

Trinity Christian College SALT programs offer trips, classes and book club discussions open to adults 45 and over.

Trinity Christian College offers wide variety of SALT programs For “seasoned” adults looking for outings, classes, book club discussions, entertainment, and informative sessions, Trinity Christian College has many different offerings.

Each spring and fall, Seasoned Adults Learning at Trinity (SALT) provides low-cost,

no-commitment opportunities to pursue intellectual and practical interests while learning, traveling and developing new friendships.

With SALT, there are no membership fees, grades or homework.

SALT students are welcome to join Trinity’s chapel services, use the on-campus library and bookstore

and free parking.

For more information, including a schedule of SALT offerings, or to register, visit www.trnty.edu/salt or call Ruth De Bruyn at 2394827. Trinity Christian College is at 6601 W. College Drive, Palos Heights.

Supplied photo

Ten-year-old Charlie Roth holds a baby chick at The Children’s Farm in Palos Park, which re-opens on Saturday.

The Children’s Farm re-opens Saturday for the spring season The Children’s Farm reopens for the spring season this Saturday.

The Children’s Farm is located at 12700 Southwest Highway in Palos Park.

The Children’s Farm will be open every Saturday and Sunday from 1 until 4 p.m. starting this weekend.

Visitors to the farm can tour the barns and see the farm animals. New piglets, lambs, goat kids, calves, bunnies, chicks, and ducklings are due to arrive this spring.

Families are invited into each animal pen by a farm volunteer who helps children to touch and learn

about the animal. According the Farm Director Amy Didominicis, the farm is a hands-on opportunity for children to experience the life of the farm.

Admission to the farm is $6 per person. No reservations are required on the weekends from 1 until 4 p.m. The exception is Easter weekend, when advance tickets are required for the Easter Egg Roundup on Saturday, March 26, and the farm is closed on Sunday, March 27.

The farm is also open for groups tours throughout the year by advance reservation. For more information, call The Center at 361-3650.

Southwest • Section 2, Page 10

Rammstein among headline acts at Chicago Open Air concert Chicago Open Air has announced Rammstein as one of the headlining acts for the three-day music, craft beer and Gourmet Man Food festival coming July 15, 16 and 17 at Toyota Park in Bridgeview, just outside Chicago.

This marks Rammstein’s only 2016 U.S. performance and first Chicago show since 2012.

Chicago Open Air will feature a massive lineup of top rock artists, an outdoor Gourmet Man Food selection incorporating local and regional cuisine, a craft beer village highlighting top brews from the region, and other entertainment and fan experiences.

Discounted Early Bird General Admission three-day weekend tickets are available for purchase now at www.ChicagoOpenAir. com. See below for more details.

Rammstein are known for their explosive and creative live performances with spectacular lighting.

In the course of two decades, the German rock band have risen to the apex of the great rock pyramid, achieving album and DVD sales in the millions, headlining major festivals and bigger venues around the world (including New York’s Madison Square Garden, a show that sold out its 18,200 tickets in under 30 minutes!), and establishing themselves as peerless master showmen with an approach to their art — and ‘art’ is the word — that is dramatic, epic in scale and capable of touching all of the senses; a dark and spectacular fairy-tale laced with controversy and don’t-

try-this-at-home theatrics.

“Rammstein is an act that is headlining major festivals all over the world,” says Chicago Open Air producer Danny Wimmer. “I’ve been trying to get Rammstein here for years and I couldn’t be more ecstatic to launch Chicago Open

Air with them. If you’ve never seen Rammstein LIVE before, you are in for a real treat.”

Look for the full list of Chicago Open Air music, craft beer and artist-inspired beverages, as well as the Gourmet Man Food lineup as the fest nears.

TINLEY PARK

HOME & GARDEN EXPO

The Home Expo Promoted by America’s Handyman Bob Vila

March 5-6 Sat & Sun 10am-5pm

E R IS T N R RT CO A ’S N ID OO K LL BA

Tinley Park Convention Center 18451 Convention Center Dr. Tinley Park Adult Admission: $5.00 Senior Admission: $3.00 Children Under 17: FREE

HomeShowEvent.com EXHIBITING VENDORS INCLUDE:

Exterior - Interior - Building - Landscape - Granite Design - Renovation - Remodeling - Plants - Decks Basements - Kitchens - Bathrooms - Security - Garage Windows - Roofing - Siding - HVAC - Beds - Blinds

Bring Ad For

$2.00 OFF Admission

Design Expert Kelly Edwards of HGTV Fame Presents 12p-1p

Offering the finest plants in the area, Ted’s Green House will be selling a wide variety of annuals, perennials, biennials, herbs, vegetables and specialty stock.