Richards baseball coach Wujcik reflects after reaching milestone
Marist fishing for state tourney win
REPORTER
SPORTS, Section 2
SPORTS
THE Volume LVIII, No. 9
Serving Chicago Ridge, Evergreen Park, Hickory Hills, Oak Lawn, Palos Hills and Worth
USPS 118-690
$1 Newstand 2 SECTIONS
Thursday, May 11, 2017
Carson’s thrives, Plaza project progresses A lot of stores could be up in June and July, says EP Mayor Sexton By Joe Boyle
last symbol of the old Plaza, was a portion of a wall that was visible as of last Thursday. The Evergreen Park Village Board approved special-use permits during their most recent meeting for outdoor seating at three restaurants. The outdoor seating was approved for Potbelly Sandwich Restaurant, Raising Cane’s and Mod Pizza. The demolition of the old Carson’s was expected to occur this spring. It did not receive the fanfare of the first phase of the demolition when the old Montgomery Ward’s building was leveled. Sexton is pleased because this means that soon the parking lot will be expanded and cleaned up to make way for the new retail stores that are being built alongside Carson’s. Additional retail stores that will be joining
The new Carson’s, the anchor for the new Evergreen Park Plaza, has exceeded expectations while plans for additional retail shops and restaurants are on schedule, according to Mayor James Sexton. “They are rocking,” Sexton said about the new Carson’s at 9700 S. Western Ave. “Business is doing very well there. I have heard they are very happy.” Specific figures on sales were not available, but staff at Carson’s said that business has been doing well despite ongoing construction along the old Plaza site. The old Carson’s building, which was located across the parking lot from the new facility, has been torn down. The only remnant of the old structure, the
Carson’s will be DSW, Petco, Five Below, TJ Maxx, Ulta, Rally House, 365, Carter’s Oshkosh, Dress Barn, and Dick’s Sporting Goods. The stores will extend as far north as Campbell Avenue. The old Carson’s was the last store that was still operating dating back to the early days of the old Evergreen Plaza. The store actually remained open until last September, when the new Carson’s held its grand opening. Along with Cane’s, Potbelly and Mod, Rusty Taco will be built along Western Avenue. Naf Naf Grill will eventually open between Potbelly and Mod. Outdoor seating is also scheduled to be available at Naf Naf Grill. Photo by Joe Boyle Applebee’s will continue to operate from an Retail stores are being built alongside the new Carson’s for the new Evergreen Plaza. The stores, many of which will open this summer, will
See PLAZA, Page 8 include DSW, Petco, TJ Maxx and Dick’s Sporting Goods Store.
SOUTHWEST HALF MARATHON & 10K
A picture-perfect day for runners Event in Palos Heights is judged a rousing success By Dermot Connolly
Photo by Joe Boyle
Hickory Hills residents Gus Papadrosos and his daughter, Maria, utilize the new outdoor exercise equipment at Kasey Meadow Park.
New park options in Hickory Hills By Joe Boyle Despite delays caused by unseasonably cool temperatures and wet conditions, an upgrade in playground equipment and other amenities are evident to residents who visit the Kasey Meadow Park in Hickory Hills. “Because the weather has been so cold and with all the rain we have had, there have been some delays in completing the projects,” said Jennifer Fullerton, executive director of the Hickory Hills Park District. “But as of Monday, we are
putting in asphalt for our walking paths and working on getting the stones along the wall fixed up. With all the rain we have had, we have had to work on the stones about three times.” Fullerton is referring specifically to the improvements scheduled for the Kasey Meadow Park District, 8047 W. 91st Place. Many improvements have already taken place, including repairs to the splash pad that will be open this summer. Repairs to some fencing also have been made at the park. Fullerton believes better days are ahead.
The Hickory Hills Park District will host a carnival at Kasey Meadow Park, beginning today (Thursday, May 11) and continuing through Sunday. Rides and activities for children and families will be featured. More information can be obtained by calling Kasey Meadow Park at (708) 598-1233. “We are pretty excited about the carnival,” Fullerton said. “They are beginning to set everything up. I think we had one about 30 years ago. We are excited See HICKORY HILLS, Page 8
The 10th Annual Southwest Half Marathon and 10K races were run under blue skies on Sunday, and the cool temperatures were judged perfect for running. “Here in Camelot, the weather is always like this,” joked Palos Heights Mayor Bob Straz, as he welcomed everyone to his city before the races kicked off on Route 83. He did the countdown for the half marathon at 7:30 a.m., while Palos Hills Mayor Gerald Bennett did the honors for the 10K Run/Walk 10 minutes later. Next came the Walk, Run & Roll, sponsored by Southwest Special Recreation Association (SWSRA) for people with disabilities. About 100 children also ran in the new Kids’ Dash, featuring races of various lengths for children between 2 and 10 years old. The free event, with everyone getting medals, was intended to make the 10th anniversary more of a family event. Refreshments and live music were also part of the festivities. After Pastor David Grutheson, of Harvest Bible Chapel in Palos Heights, got the day started with a prayer service, a rock band entertained the crowd during and after the races. “We’re almost sold out of beer,” said Bridget Provost, a volunteer in charge of beer sales, at about
Comic book fans follow ‘quest’ to Oak Lawn Library By Joe Boyle Superman, Batman and the Power Rangers flocked to the Oak Lawn Library on Saturday for a “Cosmic Quest.” The third annual Oak Lawn Library Fan Fest drew a large crowd, with many of the attendees dressed as their favorite superhero. The all-ages event is a celebration of pop culture and Free Comic Book Day. The theme this year was entitled the “Cosmic Quest.” Kids on the main floor had an opportunity to have their pictures taken with life-size cardboard figures of Batman, Superman and Wonder Woman, to name a few. Free comics ranging from “Doctor Who” to “Archie” were also available to comic book fans of all ages before they journeyed downstairs to see numerous displays and adults
Photo by Joe Boyle
Jen Usellis (left), also known as the Klingon Pop Warrior, prepares to “battle” Julie Malnekoff, of Marok’s Imperial Emporium, during the “Cosmic Quest” Fan Fest at the Oak Lawn Library.
dressed as superheroes and action figures. Burbank resident Mike Wilson had his “Dorkabout Art” display set up downstairs.
Photo by Dermot Connolly
See COSMIC QUEST, Page 8
Alec Bettenhausen
Fiat Alfa Romeo General Sales Manager
17514 S. Oak Park Ave., Tinley Park
Let Alec Bettenhausen and his staff Change Your Mind about Car Buying
Lease for
See RUNNERS, Page 7 Armando Avalos (left), 51, of Posen, and Joe Betz, 67, of Valparaiso, Ind., celebrate after running in the 10th Annual Southwest Half Marathon in Palos Heights. Avalos said his habit of running the Swallow Cliff stairs on Sunday mornings prepared him for his first half marathon.
Wilson has been at all three of the fan fests and enjoys the camaraderie with the guests. He draws original art figures for young visitors who are drawn to his table. “My mom liked the idea of me drawing,” said Wilson. “She liked that I started using paper instead of walls. You feel as though you want to make this a career. I really enjoy doing this. It’s fun.” Wilson said he is currently working on making a comic book. He enjoys attending the fan fest because he has an opportunity to talk to youngsters who are interested in drawing. “I like to encourage kids to draw,” Wilson said. “Other people inspired me so if I can inspire other children, then it would make
New 2017 Alfa Romeo Giulia RWD
11 a.m. “We had a lot left over last year, when it was raining.” Cong. Dan Lipinski (D-3rd) continued his tradition of serving as grand marshal, and running in the half marathon. His wife, Judy, also ran this time. After being introduced on the podium, the congressman pulled More up his sweatshirt coverage of to show off the the SW Half T-shirt with his Marathon original bib num- and 10K. ber 1 that he wore SPORTS in the inaugural race. State Sen. Bill Cunningham (D-18th), also an avid runner, was there again on Sunday, too. Emcee Jeff Prestinario, who co-founded the race with Mel Diab, recalled how Cunningham’s predecessor, Ed Maloney, helped make the race possible. “It takes a lot to put this on,” said Prestinario. “The two of us told him what we needed, and while we were in his office, he called IDOT and got permission to close Route 83,” he said. “I don’t have as much clout as him, but I’m a runner, and this is my fifth consecutive half marathon,” said Cunningham. Diab, the race director, was pleased with the turnout, noting that 1,000 people ran in the halfmarathon and 400 in the 10K.
888-744-4697
SALES HOURS: Mon-Thurs 8am-8pm, Fri-Sat 8am-6pm | SERVICE HOURS: Mon-Fri 7:30am-6pm, Sat 7:30am-4pm
$379† per month BettenhausenAlfaRomeo.com
† To lease a new 2017 Guilia RWD 36 Month Lease /10,000 Miles Per Year for Well-Qualified Lessees. $4,299 Due at Lease Signing, Tax, Title and License Extra. No Security Deposit Required. For well qualified lessees. Based on MSRP example of $38,990.00 with 22L package. Total due at lease signing includes a down payment and first month’s payment. Offer requires dealer contribution. Tax, title & license extra. Lessee pays for excess wear and mileage of $0.20/mile for each mile over 10,000 miles per year, if vehicle is returned at end of term. Option to buy at lease end at pre-negotiated price. Dealer’s actual terms may vary. Offer through Ally. Residency restrictions apply. Must take retail delivery by June 1, 2017. See dealer for complete details. Dealer not responsible for typographical or printing errors. Images are for display purposes only and may not represent vehicle purchased.
2 The Reporter
Thursday, May 11, 2017
Oak Lawn driver charged in death of two passengers
POLICE REPORTS
By Dermot Connolly
Chicago Ridge
was taken to Advocate Christ Medical Center in Oak Lawn, A 23-year-old Oak Lawn man where he was also pronounced faces four counts of felony aggra- dead, according to prosecutors. vated driving under the influence Rodriguez, who was found in of alcohol following a May 1 crash the driver’s seat, was treated at an in unincorporated Palos Township area hospital for minor injuries. that killed his two passenAccording to the Cook gers, from Evergreen Park County Sheriff’s Departand Hickory Hills. ment, an investigation by Stephen Rodriguez was detectives determined being held this week in that Rodriguez was inCook County Jail in lieu toxicated at the time of of $500,000 bond set durthe incident. ing his May 3 court apProsecutors said Ropearance in Bridgeview. driguez and his two Rodriguez Cook County Sheriff’s friends had been drinkDepartment officials said in a ing at an Oakbrook Terrace bar statement that at approximately prior to the crash. Rodriguez al1 a.m. on May 1, Sheriff’s Police legedly lost control of his vehicle were notified of a single-vehicle and spun into oncoming traffic. rollover crash that occurred on They said he told police who eastbound 107th Street, about a found him that he had blacked mile west of 104th Avenue. out. His blood-alcohol count was Responding officers reported reportedly found to be .163, twice finding a black 2015 BMW on its the legal limit. side, with one passenger identiProsecutors said Rodriguez fied as Reginald Leslie, 28, of was convicted of misdemeanor Evergreen Park, trapped under DUI in 2014. If he is found guilty the front of the vehicle. He was of the current charges, he could pronounced dead at the scene. be sentenced to between six and A second passenger, Piotr Prz- 28 years in prison, they said. eslica, 22, of Hickory Hills, was His next court appearance is found unresponsive in the front scheduled for May 25, according passenger seat, police said. He to prosecutors.
Assault charge
Brittany Christmas, 19, of the 9100 block of South Aberdeen Street, Chicago, was charged with battery after police were called to break up a fight that broke out at Five Guys Burgers, 9620 S. Ridgeland Ave., at 8:22 p.m. Saturday. Police said they learned from talking to the people involved that the altercation resulted from comments made on Facebook. Christmas allegedly attacked another person, and then took a phone that fell to the ground and passed it to another person. She was also charged with theft and battery to a police officer after allegedly kicking an officer while being taken into custody. She is due in court on June 2.
Drug charges Rosalia Cruz, 21, and Mariah Cruz, 20, both of the 7300 block of North Central Avenue, Chicago, were charged with illegal delivery of methamphetamines at 7:55 p.m. Saturday near 111th Street and Ridgeland Avenue. Police said the arrests were made following an alleged drug transaction witnessed by tactical officers conducting an investigation. The women were both held for a felony bond hearing on Tuesday.
Rush seeks change to stop arming terrorists Cong. Bobby L. Rush (D-1st) signed the Stop Arming Terrorists Act to prohibit the U.S. government from providing money to foreign militia that has ties to terrorist organizations. The U.S. currently uses taxpayers’ money to arm foreign
organizations with the intent of overthrowing their own governments and further their agendas, according to Rush. These U.S. funds, Rush said, allowed terrorist organizations to establish strongholds throughout struggling Middle Eastern territories.
Domestic battery Brian K. Durling, 56, was charged with domestic battery after police were called to a disturbance at his home in the 7000 block of West Mather Avenue at 7:45 p.m. Friday. Police said he appeared intoxicated, and had allegedly pushed a family member several times. He was held for a bond hearing on Monday.
.S. .D D L A Z O K . F JOHN stry
Suspended license
y Denti Complete Famil osmetic Dentistry tistry • C Restorative Den ls • Emergencies Treated ia Dentures • Part lcome • Senior Discounts e W New Patients
• Paul Del Gadillo, 20, of the 4300 block of South Whipple Street, Chicago, was charged with driving with a suspended license following a traffic stop at 99th Street and Commons Drive at 3:15 p.m. Saturday. Police said he was also cited for speeding and driving without insurance. He is due in court on June 20. • Joshua Munoz, 39, of the 10900 block of South Komensky Avenue, Oak Lawn, was charged with driving with a suspended license following a traffic stop at 6:50 p.m. Sunday in the 6400 block of West 111th Street. Police said he is due in court on June 20. • Lauren N. Hicks, 20, of the 6100 block of West Marshall Avenue, Chicago Ridge, was arrested at her home on an outstanding Chicago Ridge warrant for driving with a suspended license at 6:45 p.m. Friday. Police said she was released on bond pending a court appearance.
525 (708) 636-2 vailable
t. Appt. A Evening & Sa ldental.com www.koza
Lawn
o • Oak 10844 S. Cicer
D IDISCOUNT S C O U N T RATES R AT E S withoutdiscount discount service. without service.
It’s accident no accidentmore morepeople people trust It’s no trustState StateFarm. Farm. ErikR RNelson, Nelson, Agent Agent Erik 10200S SRoberts Roberts Road Road 10200 Palos PalosHills, Hills,ILIL60465-1539 60465-1539 Bus: Bus:708-430-7575 708-430-7575 erik.nelson.hr35@statefarm.com erik.nelson.hr35@statefarm.com
Evergreen Park P040036 P040036 02/04 02/04
DUI charge
StateFarm FarmMutual Mutual Automobile Insurance Company in NJ), Bloomington, IL State Automobile Insurance Company (Not in (Not NJ), Bloomington, IL
Tasheaka Gray, 25, of Chicago,
Jack & Pat’s Old Fashioned Butcher Shop 10717 South Ridgeland Avenue Meat: 636-3437 Deli: 636-6203
Fully Cooked
SALE DATES: May 11- May 17
Boneless Butterfly Pork Chops
3
$
39
Porterhouse or Sirloin Patties
3
$
Jack & Pat's Italian Sausage Patties
3
$
Lb.
Jack & Pat’s
98 Lb.
BQ Ribs
29
4
29 Lb.
Jack & Pats Baked Ham..................$5.69 lb. Hormel Spiced Ham..................$5.39 lb. Jack & Pat’s (All Beef) Hot Dogs......................$5.29 lb. Provolone or Colby Jack...................$5.29 lb.
5
$
98 Lb.
Boneless Stuffed
Chicken Breast
Lb.
Jack & Pat’s Marinated Boneless Chicken Breast
$
Heat & Eat
389
$
Lb.
Jack & Pat’s
Pizza Set Ups
Sausage
10
$
98 Each
Cheese
769
$
Each
Cracker Barrel (Pan Roasted) Turkey Breast..............$6.09 lb. IL Primo Genoa Salami.............$5.09 lb. Diamond’s Irish Sausage...............$5.49 lb. Kidney Bean or Italian Pasta Salad.............................$2.59 lb.
was charged with driving under the influence of alcohol following a traffic stop at 1:55 a.m. April 29 in the 9500 block of South Kedzie Avenue. Police said she was also cited for driving without a valid license, speeding, failure to use signal when required and following too closely.
Child endangerment Lisa Pine, 32, of Chicago, was charged with child endangerment for knowingly exposing a 2-yearold child to crack cocaine at 10:01 p.m. May 3 in the 9100 block of South St. Louis Avenue. Police said the child was in close proximity to people smoking crack, and an ambulance was called because the child became sick.
Retail theft • Denise Pack, 44, of Harvey, and Ron Brown, 48, of Robbins, were charged with retail theft at Pete’s Market, 3720 W. 95th St., at 5:30 p.m. May 1. Polices said they took 24 steaks worth $190.45. • Lubna Said, 34, of Chicago, was charged with retail theft at Meijer, 9200 S. Western Ave., at 7:12 p.m. May 2. Police said she used coupons for items she had not purchased to reduce her bill at a self-checkout station to $8, down from $224.91. • Jaylin Owens, 19, of Chicago, was charged with retail theft at Walmart, 2500 W. 95th St., at 11:27 p.m. April 29. Police said he took a phone case and batteries worth $44.24 in total.
Disorderly conduct Joshlyn Ross, 27, of Chicago, was charged with disorderly conduct at Little Company of Mary Hospital, 2800 W. 95th St., at 12:22 a.m. April 29. Police said she yelled and made threats on a patients’ floor.
Hickory Hills
Suspended license charge Tonya L. Davis, 31, of Cinnamon Creek Drive, Palos Hills, was charged with driving with a suspended license following a traffic stop at 11:14 a.m. May 2 in the 8000 block of West 87th Street. Police said she was also cited for using an electronic device while driving. She is due in court on June 9.
Speeding charge Marquis Henderson, 38, of the 6600 block of South Maplewood Avenue, Chicago, was issued a citation for speeding following a traffic stop at 9:12 a.m. Saturday in the 9200 block of South Roberts Road. Police said he was also issued a verbal warning about remnants of marijuana cigarettes found strewn throughout the car.
Oak Lawn DUI charges
• Khalil Quran, 24, of Chicago, was charged with driving
under the influence of alcohol and drugs following a hit-andrun collision at 2:12 a.m. May 5 at 89th Place and Menard Avenue. Police said he reported being hit and was found at the scene in his car. But they said the damage to the front passenger side of his car did not correlate with his account, and there was no evidence that a collision had occurred in the area. Police said he was also cited for driving without insurance. He is due in court on May 22. • Wojciech P. Jarosz, 32, of Oak Lawn, was charged with driving under the influence of alcohol following a traffic stop at 2:40 a.m. April 23 at 95th Street and McVicker Avenue. Police said he failed field sobriety tests. He was also cited for improper lane usage, failure to signal, failure to dim headlights, and speeding. He is due in court on May 22.
p.m. April 28 with a backpack full of stolen items. Police said he ran out of the store when security guards tried to stop him from leaving with a backpack containing soap, laundry detergent and other items worth $183. In addition to retail theft, police said he was also charged with disarming a police officer and resisting arrest, because he allegedly tried to take a holstered gun from a Cook County Sheriff’s Deputy who witnessed the chase and tried to stop him in a nearby parking lot. He was held for a bond hearing. • Makeda S. Simmons, 40, of Chicago, was issued a village ordinance violation for retail theft for allegedly trying to leave Walgreens, 4740 W. 95th St., at 2:50 p.m. May 2 with seven boxes of condoms worth $117.93 in her purse. She is due at a hearing in Village Hall on June 6.
Weapons charge
Suspended license
Alvaro Rangel, 19, of Burbank, was charged with felony possession of a firearm with a defaced serial number following a traffic stop at 1:54 p.m. April 25 in the 9400 block of South Cicero Avenue. Police said the Glock 22 40-caliber handgun was found hidden in a compartment in the front passenger seat. Police said he was also cited for having illegally tinted front and side windows. Rangel was held for a bond hearing.
Stephanie M. Chansari, 23, of Oak Lawn, was charged with driving with a suspended license following a traffic stop at 9:24 a.m. May 3 at Menard Avenue and Southwest Highway. She was also cited for not having a child restrained. She was held on an outstanding DuPage County warrant for failure to appear in court on a cannabis possession charge. She is due in court on May 19.
Assault charge Juanito P. Silva, 70, of Oak Lawn, was charged with assault following an altercation with his brother-in-law at 12:26 p.m. April 28 on Karlov Avenue. Police said they responded to a disturbance call at a home, and were told that Silva had gone there unannounced and refused to leave. He allegedly became physically aggressive and yelled at the victim, attempted to punch him, and then left, saying he would be back to kill him with his gun. He was arrested at his own house and is due in court on May 19.
Outstanding warrant Tyrone Mason Jr., 39, of Sauk Village, was arrested on an outstanding warrant from Park Forest after police were called to Carmax on 95th Street at 6:46 p.m. April 28. Police said they were called in because Mason was trying to sell a Chevrolet Silverado that records showed had been stolen in Junction City, Kansas, in November 2014. The vehicle was returned and Mason was not charged because police said he had a title and there was no evidence he knew it was stolen.
Retail theft • Jimmy R. Smith, 38, of Chicago, faces retail theft and other charges after allegedly fleeing from security guards at Jewel, 9424 S. Pulaski Road, at 9:20
Palos Hills DUI charge Nathaniel Calder, 23, of Crestwood, was charged with driving under the influence of alcohol following a traffic stop at 4 a.m. May 3 in the 10300 block of South Harlem Avenue. Police said he failed sobriety tests and was also cited for speeding. He is due in court on June 26.
Drug possession Jimmy Torres, 18, of Chicago, was charged with felony possession of a controlled substance after police reported finding him in a car filled with marijuana smoke at 8 p.m. Sunday in the 10000 block of 84th Terrace. Police said he and the two people with him admitted to smoking marijuana, and were issued local ordinance violations. Torres was also charged with possession of a controlled substance with intent to deliver because, police said, he was carrying Xanax tablets without a prescription, and admitted to selling them. Torres was held for a bond hearing on Monday.
Car burglary Several items were reported stolen out of an unlocked car parked in the 9900 block of 84th Avenue at 4 p.m. Friday. The owner of the vehicle said that a drill, a gym bag containing an iPod and shoes, and $6 in change were stolen. Police reports are provided by law enforcement agencies. Charges are not evidence of guilt. They are a record of police actions taken, and persons charged with a crime are presumed innocent until proved guilty in a court of law.
Hurley pushing for expanded protection for police, firefighters State Rep. Fran Hurley (D-35th) held a hearing recently and urged legislators to support her bill to ensure structurally dangerous buildings are clearly marked. “Our first responders deserve to know when a building they’re about to enter has major structural problems,” said Hurley. “By marking these buildings with a red X or something similar, first responders can act accordingly in an emergency to keep themselves and their colleagues safe.” Hurley’s House Bill 3148 requires local government to post a notice on structurally damaged or unsafe buildings. Buildings that pose a potential risk to police or firefighters responding to an emergency would be identified with a large, noticeable marking such as the red “X.” This measure aims to keep first responders safe when responding to an emergency. Hurley discussed her bill with members of the House Construction Industry and Code Enforcement Committee. She said she will continue to push for critical protections for police and firefighters.
Thursday, May 11, 2017
The Reporter
Woman dies in fire in Oak Lawn Oak Lawn firefighters douse a house fire in Lot 159 of the Airway mobile home park at 9001 S. Cicero Ave. that occurred about 9:55 a.m. Tuesday morning. Fire Chief George Sheets said firefighters arrived minutes after receiving the report of the blaze with a person trapped inside. He said a middle-aged woman who was found within seconds was “unresponsive, pulseless and not breathing,” when removed from the structure. Sheets said they were unable to resuscitate the woman at the scene. She was then taken to Advocate Christ Medical Center a few blocks away, where she was pronounced dead. The exact cause of the fire is under investigation. Submitted photo
Voted best steakhouse 5 years running!
OAK LAWN VILLAGE BOARD MEETING
Board opts out of county’s new minimum wage, sick leave laws By Dermot Connolly The Oak Lawn Village Board voted unanimously on Tuesday to opt out of new Cook County minimum wage and paid sick leave laws, which had been discussed at length at a previous meeting. “Our small businesses will be very relieved to hear this news,” said Mayor Sandra Bury. The mayor said Cook County Commissioner John Daley (D-11th), a sponsor of the new law, had called her earlier in the day and submitted a letter requesting that the village not take such action. But at the April 25 board meeting, trustees heard from many small business representatives who said the new laws would cause businesses to either cut staff, close or move to neighboring communities that had opted out. Under the new law, which is to go into effect July 1, the minimum wage rises to $10 this year and $1 more annually until it reaches $13 in 2020. But by opting out, as home rule communities are allowed to do, the minimum wage in Oak Lawn will remain at $8.25. The vote was taken after returning Trustee Tom Phelan (6th) was sworn into office, along with Bury, Village Clerk Jane Quinlan
said Olejniczak. “If people knew all the work that went on behind the scenes, they would really be surprised.” “Mike Carberry was the real deal,” Vorderer said. “He never had any hidden agendas, just working for the good of the village.” “I did have hidden agendas, but you didn’t know them. Because they were hidden,” CarOur small businesses berry joked. “We deal with a lot of difficult issues on will be very relieved to this board. But I’ve had a lot of good experiences working with all of you. It has been a hear this news. joy,” said Carberry. — Oak Lawn mayor Sandra Bury, He advised the board to continue the work on the decision to opt out they started on pension reform. Although the of the new Cook County laws task is difficult, he said it could be done, citing as an example former Metropolitan Water Reclamation District President Terry Phelan represented the 6th District on the O’Brien’s success dealing with the MWRD’s Village Board for eight years before stepping 16 unions. down four years ago. His successor, Mike “I wish you well in that effort,” Carberry Carberry, did not seek a second term, and said. before making his exit Tuesday, his colleagues All six trustees pledged to work together thanked him for his service and dedication to for the betterment of the village, including the village he grew up in. Bury also presented Trustee Bob Streit (3rd), who ran against him with a plaque. Bury for mayor. “I truly enjoyed getting to know you, as “I hope we can all work together. We need we traveled around the village investigating to put the bad blood and bad history behind flooding and other issues — usually at night,” us,” Phelan said.
“The best steakhouse on the South Side”
and Trustees Alex Olejniczak (2nd) and Terry Vorderer (4th), who all won re-election in April. Cook County Circuit Court Judge Christopher Lawler, an Oak Lawn native himself, presided over the ceremony.
Mother’s Day
May 14th 12:00pm-8:00pm
“
Join our Rewards Program
”
It’s easy and it’s free! • You receive 5% back with every meal • Specials such as double points throughout the year • $15 is automatically preloaded onto your card once you register Louie’s is the perfect place to host your next event! 4642 W. 103rd Street, Oak Lawn 708-425-6530 | www.louieschophouse.com Hours: Mon.-Thurs. 4 p.m.-10 p.m. Fri. & Sat. 4 p.m.-11 p.m. | Sun. 2 p.m.-9 p.m.
“Home of Instant Credit” FURNITURE
Easy Payment Terms • Layaway Plans Low Prices, Large Selection & The Best Service in Chicagoland
Large Selection of Sofas and Loveseats
FREE SHIPPING* ON ALL LOCAL DELIVERIES *Restrictions apply
NO CREDIT FINANCING
SEE STORE FOR DETAILS
Large Selection of Dinette Sets
Large Selection of Bedroom Sets
CARPET REMNANTS Starting At
$
39
99
We Carry Furniture for Every Room of Your Home Bedrooms • Living Rooms • Dining Rooms • Appliances Electronics • Youth Products • Mattresses • Carpet
Large Selection of Carpet Remnants
• Thin Crust • Deep Dish • Stuffed • Pan And a Wide Variety of Traditional Homemade Italian Cuisine M-Th 11-10 • F 11-11 • Sat 12-11 • Sun 3-9
$ 4555 S. Ashland Ave. • Chicago, IL 60609 773-927-9500 CARPETCORNERFURNITURE.COM
5 OFF PIZZA
18” PARTYTIME
With this coupon. Not valid with any other offer. 1 per pizza.
3
4 The Reporter
Our Neighborhood
Thursday, May 11, 2017
Large crowd visits Oak Lawn Library for ‘Cosmic Quest’ The third annual event celebrating comic books and reading drew a large crowd Saturday at the Oak Lawn Library. Parents, children and fans of comic books and
superheroes like Superman checked out the displays and numerous discussions that were held during the day at this year’s “Cosmic Quest.” Comic books ranging from “Doctor Who” to
“Archie” were also available for visitors. Children had their pictures taken with various cardboard figures of superheroes on the main floor. Performers were on hand along with exhibitors
and panels. This was an all-ages celebration of pop culture and free comic book day. An after-hours trivia session was held that evening at PD’s Place in Oak Lawn.
Visitors browsed through numerous displays during the “Cosmic Quest” fan fest held Saturday at the Oak Lawn Library. But the most popular items were found at the comic book stands. Jessie Quilanta, of Midlothian, holds up some art work given to her by Mike Wilson at the Dorkabout Art counter during the “Cosmic Quest” at the Oak Lawn Library.
Visitors played various board games with either a comic book or movie theme during the “Cosmic Quest” held Saturday at the Oak Lawn Library.
Mike Giba works on a caricature during the “Cosmic Quest” fan fest.
Photos by Joe Boyle
Spring is in the air at the Palos Heights Farmers Market Beautiful flowers, flowering baskets, spring perennials and more can be found at the Palos Heights Farmers Market, which kicked off yesterday, May 10, for its 2017 season. The market is held from 7 a.m. to 1 p.m. each Wednesday in the municipal parking lot, 12717 S. Harlem Ave., Palos Heights. Spring vegetables are coming into the market, as are many varieties of fresh herbs. Shoppers are urged to come early for the best selection. In addition, the market has many food offerings on a weekly basis, including Sikta Salmon, beef, chicken, pork and sausages, eggs, cheeses, bakery items, egg noodles, kettle corn, salsas, pasta sauces, jams, jellies, honey, maple syrup and syrup products, microgreens and sprouts, olive oils, vinegars, peanuts, seasonings and
salt products, espresso coffees, smoothies, pizza products and pesto, tamales, organic vegan patties and desserts. Ready-to-eat food is available at Parmesan’s Pizza, Aracely’s Tamales, and Eating Well. The Pampered Chef is equipped for all the needs of summer, Father’s Day and the barbecue season. This week’s Community Tent guests are Camille’s Confections and the Palos Heights Recreation Department. Camille’s Confections will be selling a wide variety of handmade English toffees in half- and full-pound packages. Varieties include Original, Sassy Sea Salt, White Chocolate Cranberry Almond, Dark Chocolate Blueberry Pecan and more. They make great teacher gifts. At the Community Tent, the Rec Department will be promoting all the upcoming summer programs, including
the summer camps and special events. The department will have information about the Palos Heights Fitness Center and the Palos Heights Pool. A Fitness Center raffle will take place at 1 p.m. All guests of the farmers market are eligible to enter the raffle. New at the City Tent for 2017, Palos Heights Farmers Market gift certificates are available for purchase. The certificates are $5 each. This week, Dr. John Principe MD of WellbeingMD Center for Life provides “Ramp Pesto.” This recipe, and early springtime recipes from previous years will be available. The recipes can be also be found at www.wellbeingmd.com and www. palosheights.org. Market patrons are encouraged to pick up a 2017 Frequent Shopper Card. Bring a canned food donation (fruit, vegetable
or protein only), or donate fresh fruit or vegetables from the market, and double credit will be given on the Frequent Shopper Card. This year, the market is partnering with The Palos United Methodist Church Food Pantry at 12101 S Harlem Ave. All canned donations will be brought to that location. All fresh produce donations will be donated to Operation Blessing in Alsip. LINK cards are now accepted at the Palos Heights Farmers Market. Again this year, the “Palos Bucks” Double-Value Matching Program will take place. Details are available at the City Tent. The market is proud to announce that it is the recipient of a LINK UP Illinois USDA Grant, for the support of the promotion of the Palos Heights Farmers Market LINK program. Representatives of the Palos Heights
Beautification Committee will be available selling this year’s Classic Car Event Split the Pot Raffle Tickets. They make great Father’s Day card stuffers. The drawing will be on Thursday, July 20 and the winner need not be present. Organizers are offering thanks to this year’s Palos Heights Farmers Market Sponsors. They include Dr. John Principe, MD of Wellbeing MD Center for Life; Palos Health; The Private Bank; CNB Bank and Trust; United Trust Bank; City of Palos Heights Mayor Bob Straz; Running for Kicks; Golden Shoes and Camille’s Confections. Additional information about the market can be obtained at www.palosheights. org, by emailing farmersmarket@ palosheights.org or by calling (708) 3611800. The Palos Heights Farmers Market also has a Facebook page.
Can’t afford new windows, doors, siding, gutters or awnings? Uhlmann Home Improvement can SOLVE your PROBLEMS
We will REPAIR your Windows, Entry Doors, Storm Doors, Patio Doors, Siding, Gutters & Awnings
CALL TODAY 708-349-0121 For Your FREE In-Home Estimate!
10% OFF
Got drafty glass-block windows? SEASON Old, Drafty Jalousie
Uhlmann can SOLVE your problem, replacing your old Jalousie and metal windows with NEW Thermopane VENT Windows for Glass Block!
$50 OFF Glass Block Windows Call Today, Save and Be WARM! A+ Rating BBB
A-RATING
2016 VOTED BEST FOR HOME IMPROVEMENT In the Chicago Southland for 2016
New Thermopane Vinyl Window
SPECIAL
$78 OFF
Gutter Guards
Gutter Cleaning & Repair & Sealing the Corners
Call Today for an Appointment!
773-238-1829 708-349-0121 11636 S. Pulaski, Alsip www.uhlmanninc.com
13% OFF
Soffit & Fascia Vinyl Siding
Insulated Vinyl Siding & LP SmartSiding
Compiled by Joe Boyle
News and events from our archives Relatives of Oak Lawn tornado victims meet coroner • 50 years ago
From the May 11, 1967 issue The story: A solemn group of relatives gathered Monday at the Oak Lawn Village Hall for the final act they would hold for the 33 residents who died as a result of the tornado that ripped through the village on April 21. Coroner Andrew J. Toman conducted the inquest for the victims of the storm. After 20 minutes of testimony and 20 minutes of deliberation by the coroner’s jury, a verdict of “accidental death from multiple injuries extreme” was returned. The families then rose, formed a line, and waited for their turns to give the information necessary for the permanent death notices. The quote: “We don’t make a show of these things,” Toman said. “These people have enough pain. We’re not going to add to it.”
Piano lessons lead to becoming director of EP Citizen Services • 25 years ago
From the May 7, 1992 issue The story: Piano lessons resulted in Ann Dykstra taking on a rewarding career position in Evergreen Park. She became the director of citizen services for Evergreen Park. More than just a mere information center, this segment of village government affects hundreds of lives in a positive way from planning outings for senior citizens to offering classes for residents. She volunteers for various organizations, like the Cancer Closet. She also sits on the PLOWS Council and the American Cancer Society Advisory Board. And it all began because she took piano lessons. The quote: “When my daughter was in college, I decided to take piano lessons,” Dykstra said. “The teacher said she heard that a position was open at the Evergreen Park Village Hall. I decided to apply. I can’t believe that was in 1978 and this job evolved into what it is today.”
Evergreen Park fire chief retires after 42 years of service
• 10 years ago
er We Oisff counts D r io Sen
From the May 10, 2007 issue
Family Owned Since 1945 Replacement Windows • Bows • Bays & Garden Windows Storm Windows & Doors • Steel/Fiberglass Entry Doors Awnings • Glass Block • Siding
The story: Evergreen Park Fire Chief Edward Clohessy will retire this month after serving about 42 years with the village’s fire department. The Evergreen Park Village Board voted Monday to accept the resignation of Clohessy, who will leave his post May 15. The village board also voted to approve the appointment of Assistant Fire Chief Ronald Kleinhaus to the position of chief executive on May 16. Both Clohessy and Kleinhaus received standing ovations from the village board and audience. Mayor James Sexton had kind words for Clohessy. The quote: “He had a love affair with Evergreen Park,” Sexton said. “It’s with deep regret that I accept his resignation and retirement.”
Thursday, May 11, 2017
The Reporter
5
Worth board installs new trustee and incumbents McElroy receives emotional sendoff By Sharon L. Filkins With a packed board room, the May 2 Worth Village Board Meeting was an emotional evening of smiles, tears, celebration and a sad farewell as newly elected officials were sworn into office and a longtime trustee stepped down. Mayor Mary Werner returns to the office of mayor for a second term after defeating former Mayor Randy Keller in his bid for re-election. Keller had served as Mayor from 2009 to 2013. Werner successfully won the office in 2013. Village Clerk Bonnie Price was unopposed and garnered the highest number of votes in the April 4 election. She was sworn into office for a fifth term. Also returning to office were trustees Rich Dziedzic (for a third term) and Tedd Muersch Jr. (for a second term). Brad Urban, a longtime village resident, was sworn in as a first-term trustee. Urban is filling the position vacated by Colleen McElroy, who chose not to run for re-election. He defeated first-time candidate Bahira Karim, also a longtime resident. Although she lost the election, Karim was present at the swearing-in ceremony. “I came to support the elected officials of our village. It is the
right thing to do,” she said. Before the officials took the oath of office, Werner honored McElroy for her years of service. “I will try not to cry, if you don’t cry,” Werner said to McElroy. Tears flowed, however, as Werner made a presentation of appreciation to McElroy and hugged her. In her farewell speech, McElroy thanked her family, including her mother and stepfather, who were present, and her four children and her many friends who crowded into the meeting room. Turning to her fellow board members, McElroy thanked Werner and Price. “Bonnie was the first politician I met after moving into Worth. I met her when I went into the village hall to see about starting a village-wide garage sale, one of my grand ideas,” McElroy said, laughing. She also thanked Trustee Pete Kats, whom she ran with when she was first elected eight years ago. “You kept your cool with me and my outlandish ideas. The advice you gave me will stay with me always,” she said. Turning to Dziedzic, who she also ran with in her first election, McElroy said, “We built something from nothing when we started the economic development committee.”
New Years
Great Carpet! Great Prices! Advantage Carpet “Your Advantage to Quality at Warehouse Prices”
Showroom Hours: Mon., Tues. & Thurs. 9:00am to 8:00pm Wed., Fri & Sat. 9:00am to 5:00pm • Sun. 11am to 4:00pm
www.AdvantageCarpetPlus.com
ning and the Worth Historical Museum. In conjunction with the Centennial, she authored a book, “The History of Worth.” “I have many beautiful memories of the people I talked with in preparing the ‘History of Worth.’
2015 2012 2011
It was inspiring to learn of the early days and the amazing people who built Worth,” she said. Commenting on McElroy, Kats said, “We are going to truly miss her. Whatever she did, she did with her whole heart.”
Presenting the oath of office to the elected officials was First Appellate Court Judge Mathias W. Delort. The judge stated that in his early days as an attorney, he had served as the village attorney for Worth.
Bertucci’s MEDITERRANEAN TAVERNA Specializing in Italian and Greek Cuisine
Enjoy evening dining on our gorgeous patio Charming, cozy atmosphere with wood burning fireplace Great, friendly service, delicious food and generous portions
Attention, Renters!
Landlords’ insurance policies only cover what they own — not your personal property. Protect your belongings from fire, theft or worse with Renters Insurance through AAA. Cover your personal property, including: Clothing • Furniture • Electronics • Jewelry
Protect your possessions. Get a free quote from a AAA Insurance Agent today.
SALE EVENT
7329 West 79th Street (Bridgeview) 708-496-8822
She had worked closely with Dziedzic, who oversees Building, Licensing and Ordinances. McElroy was involved with many Worth projects, such as Worth Days, The Centennial Celebration, the long-range plan-
Venturella Insurance Agency, Inc. 8855 S. Ridgeland Ave., Ste 209 (Inside Marquette Bank Building) Oak Lawn, IL 708-430-5885 Insurance underwritten by one of the following companies: Auto Club Insurance Association, MemberSelect Insurance Company, Auto Club Group Insurance Company, Auto Club Property-Casualty Insurance Company, Auto Club South Insurance Company, Auto Club Insurance Company of Florida, or non-affil ted insurance companies. 16-IA-1862 LC 04/16
Private Gaming Room Complimentary beverages and snacks. Gaming Room open 9 a.m.-midnight
Bertucci’s Mediterranean Taverna 10331 S. Roberts Rd., Palos Hills 708-233-5800 bertuccis.net Closed Tuesday
6 The Reporter
COMMENTARY
THE
Thursday, May 11, 2017
REPORTER
An Independent Newspaper Published Weekly Founded March 16, 1960
Ray Hanania
Wealthy Dems might defeat wealthy Rauner
Why is my TV clogged with election ads?
I
llinois has elected just two wealthy people to major statewide office in the last 20 years: former U.S. Sen. Peter Fitzgerald and Gov. Bruce Rauner. Both candidates won because they ran as firm, anti-establishment outsiders. Fitzgerald was best known as a state Senator in the 1990s for railing against the elders who ran his Republican Party, including many who had been supplying the GOP with loads of money over the years and who would use their positions to handsomely profit off of state business. Rauner also ran against his party’s insiders when he launched his campaign, dismissing them as bought and paid for by Springfield’s special interests. What establishment party support both men Rich did receive mostly came at the end of their genMiller eral election campaigns. Their personal finances, which allowed them to self-fund, kept them free of establishment taint, and that independence gave both of them credibility as outsiders. As Election Day neared, some establishment GOP figures decided they’d better swallow their pride and get on board. The establishment needed the insurgents more than the insurgents needed the establishment. Billionaire Democrat JB Pritzker isn’t following this pattern as he campaigns for governor. Insiders, elected officials and politically connected union leaders have been jumping on his bandwagon from the get-go, usually after being impressed with Pritzker during one-on-one meetings. The game plan seems pretty obvious. Pritzker doesn’t want those folks and groups endorsing Chris Kennedy, whose last name is still immensely popular and whose own connections over the decades would’ve guaranteed him support from his party’s elders if Pritzker and his infinite bank account hadn’t stepped in. Kennedy doesn’t have Pritzker’s kind of money, so Kennedy is perceived as needing support from the people and groups who fund and staff the party’s apparatus. At the moment, those folks are streaming toward Pritzker amid a cacophony of whispers (all denied) that House Speaker Michael J. Madigan is directing the traffic. Starve Kennedy of money and foot soldiers and maybe he’ll drop out. Kennedy, whose personal wealth is substantial, but nothing like Pritzker’s, has made some half-hearted attempts to claim that endorsements don’t matter whenever he loses them. But he hasn’t yet embraced (or maybe doesn’t even recognize) the role that’s literally being thrust upon him. Kennedy’s originally preferred path of being the widely endorsed “inevitable” candidate is now owned by Pritzker. By default, Kennedy’s now the most prominent “outsider” in the race. After almost two and a half years of Rauner’s rule, the government is in shambles. Rauner’s first campaign video back in 2013 complained that the state had “the highest unemployment in the Midwest,” and that’s still true today. He pointed to the state’s “lowest credit rating in America,” and that’s only gotten worse. “Springfield is broken; $8,000 in pension debt for every man, woman and child,” Rauner bemoaned in the video. That figure is now $10,000. So, maybe Illinois voters will yearn for someone who can work with Springfield to solve our massive problems and get us back to a semblance of normalcy after three populist governors in a row couldn’t get anything done. That appears to be where both Pritzker and Kennedy are going. If Rauner doesn’t obtain a budget deal, he will simply run against the establishment again, claiming the evil powers that be (Speaker Madigan) have blocked him at every turn, but that he is “very close” to breaking their self-serving logjam. And, indeed, if he is re-elected after what could be four years of gridlock, the Democrats will have to start working with him. Democrats claim that Rauner hid his “real” agenda from voters in 2014. But that agenda is now crystal clear to everyone. Almost half of Illinois Democrats voted for insurgent presidential candidate Bernie Sanders a year ago. A recent poll by the Paul Simon Public Policy Institute showed that Gov. Rauner is slightly more popular than Speaker Madigan in Chicago, of all places. So, an authentic, independent, populist message from the late Robert Kennedy’s sincere, accomplished and mild-mannered son could very well resonate. One of the things you can’t help but notice in the press coverage of Kennedy’s Downstate appearances is the reports on crowd size. His family name is packing halls all over the place as locals come out to witness a part of history. The obvious question is whether Kennedy can sustain this. His name and the hints of his family’s famous accent in his speaking voice are working like a charm for him right now. But will it last? If he embraces a different direction, I think the answer could be yes. Rich Miller also publishes Capitol Fax, a daily political newsletter, and CapitolFax.com.
Owned and operated by Southwest Regional Publishing Co. Mark Hornung, Chief Operating Officer
The Business Side
The News Side
Donna Brown, Sales Director Joe Boyle, Editor Monica Cotter, Finance Director Dermot Connolly, Reporter Debbie Perrewe, Classified Manager Jeff Vorva, Sports Editor Mike Russell, Production Director Lauren Ziemann, Art Director Rita Crosley, Pre-press Manager Chuck Ingwersen, Designer
Southwest Regional Publishing 12247 S. Harlem Ave. Palos Heights, IL 60463 Office hours: Monday-Friday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Entered as periodical mail at the Post Office at Worth, Illinois, under the Act of March 3, 1879. Subscription rates: $42 per year by mail in Cook County, $52 per year by mail elsewhere. $1 per copy on newsstands and vending machines. Postmaster: Send address changes to The Reporter, 12247 S. Harlem Ave., Palos Heights, IL 60463
Y LETTERS TO THE EDITOR
Can’t trust Trump’s motives ... or his handshakes When President Trump shakes hands with someone, he pulls or pushes them off balance. He either thinks that it is funny or he is giving you a handshake that you will not forget. There are ways to make him stop that rude gesture. Let your imagination take over. He did set a record in his first 100 days in office. He has not signed any legislation from Congress. He has only signed many executive orders with his excessively large signature which fits his personality. Most of his “orders” have failed, such as his ban on Muslims from certain countries. He signed two orders for that and a federal judge declared those invalid. The president does not understand the Constitution. He performs like an apprentice president. The president ordered the 59 missiles at $1 million each into Syria to that landed around the airport runways. They left the runways intact for the Russian and Syrian planes so they could continue to bomb the remaining survivors of the Syrian population. Not a one missile hit any part of the runway. Remember his big promise? ”On my first day in office, I will repeal Obamacare.” What happened to that promise? Then he went into claiming that President Obama wire-tapped him. The FBI and the CIA claimed that nothing like that ever happened. Oh well, Trump feels that it is worth it to damage President Obama’s reputation just by putting the lie out there. Trump will do anything to keep our mind off of the Russian investigation. It is this type of recklessness that will put us into another war. Trump definitely wants a war with
North Korea. He has no clue on how to have a war, other than fill the room with generals and admirals of every rank. I feel that he will have a war with North Korea, just so he can have bragging rights to shout out to his faithful followers, regardless of the fatalities. If he declares a war, it would make sense that he offers his two grown sons and daughters to join the military ranks to defend America. Then we will know what his intentions are going to be. I would expect they would stay state-side, probably as advisors. When he appeared on camera to express his actions thus far, he said with a raspy voice, that he has sent an “Armada” [a fleet of war vessels] to North Korea. When, in fact the fleet of war vessels was traveling south to Australia for exercises for training with the Australian forces. Was he embarrassed when he was told about his miscalculation? No, he never gets embarrassed. It was somebody else’s fault. Trump’s choice of Secretary of State, Rex Tillerson is a man who does not want to talk with the press or hire any staff members. He needs to fill over 200 vacancies in the state department. The president needs to fill over 500 vacancies. Both men feel that they can do it all. Maybe that is how millionaires and billionaires think. There is a definite collusion within the investigation of the Russian involvement about the election of candidate Hillary Clinton in the 2016 election. The American people and the press should never be underestimated. “Alternative facts” will not obliterate the truth. Truth will win out. — Dean Koldenhoven, Palos Heights
President’s hesitancy to fire General Flynn is puzzling Can someone explain why it took our president 18 days to fire General Flynn? Sally Yates had warned the White House, as did out-going President Obama, of the man’s behavior. Even with this information, our president had this man in classified meetings.
Regardless of where you stand politically, this must give you pause. Why did it take a leak from the Washington Post before President Trump actually moved to have him fired? — Becky Panfil, Hickory Hills
Nation’s law enforcement will be honored with candlelight vigil The 29th annual National Law Enforcement Memorial Candlelight Vigil honoring fallen law enforcement officers will be held on Saturday, May 13 on the National Mall between 4th and 7th Streets in Washington, D.C. The event is sponsored by the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial Fund in conjunction with National Police Week May 14-20. During the vigil, the names of 394 federal, state and local law officers added to the memorial will be recognized of which 251 are from historical research and 143 from 2016. Included in the records are 75 officers lost in search and rescue efforts in the 9-11 twin towers terrorist attack in New York City in 2001. The vigil will include the reading of names added to the blue-gray marble memorial at Judicial Square, where now the known names total 21,153 since the founding of our nation’s law enforcement in 1791 under the Constitution of the United States. National Peace Officers Memorial Day
on Monday, May 15 was established by President John F. Kennedy in 1962 with an act of Congress to recognize all law enforcement officers lost in the line of duty for the safety and protection of all in our nation. On this day at the U.S. Capitol Building the president traditionally thanks all law enforcement officers on behalf of the American people for safeguarding the nation. This is followed by wreath-laying ceremonies, honor guards and somber bagpiper police units marching in the streets of Washington, D.C. “Carved on these walls is the story of America, of a continued quest to preserve both democracy and decency, and to protect a national treasure that we call the American dream,” said President George H. Bush at the 1991 dedication ceremonies of the memorial. Truly, this memorial that honors those that protect and serve is another one of the great sites in our nation’s Capital City. — Dan Dwornik, Tinley Park
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 phone 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
ou might be wondering why you’re watching the battle for Illinois governor play out in annoying TV commercials 10 months before the election. That’s what happens when the state’s highest office is coveted by two billionaires and a multimillionaire — Bruce Rauner, J.B. Pritzker and Chris Kennedy, respectively. Rauner, our stumbling, bumbling incumbent, is described as “an American businessman, philanthropist, and billionaire politician,” and former coowner of the Chicago Sun-Times, the failing newspaper that has been acting like Rauner’s campaign manager. For example, knowing how people hate wealthy people like billionaires, the newspaper published a feature questioning if Rauner is really a billionaire. It wasn’t criticism, people. You’re not that naïve, are you? Rauner has been running commercials using duct tape to explain why Illinois residents are struggling to survive in an economy they’re told is good but that their bank accounts are screaming is bad. This is a world in which a decent car costs more than most people earn annually. Pritzker is described as an “American venture capitalist, entrepreneur, philanthropist, and private business owner” whose personal wealth is somewhere between $3 and $4 billion. Pritzker’s commercials are dominating television ad nauseum. “Touchy, feely,” they feature him smiling and slapping high fives with little kids as he introduces himself. Kennedy doesn’t have to introduce himself. He’s been involved in social service programs, helping the needy for years. Likeable out of the gate, Kennedy is described as a “developer and nonprofit activist” whose family previously owned the massive Merchandise Mart building. The Kennedy name is a very powerful magnet for the one constituency that has the highest voter turnout: baby boomers. They remember his father, former U.S. Senator Robert F. Kennedy, and uncle, President John F. Kennedy. Kennedy is just a multimillionaire, but all of them need to see a dentist. Rauner and Pritzker share the same goofy smiles, while Kennedy’s smile always looks pained. Image means something, but money is where the election battle will focus this fall when the candidates file their papers for the March 2018 primary elections, Rauner as a Republican incumbent with no achievements, and Pritzker and Kennedy as rich Democrats. Pritzker ran for office in 1998, losing to Jan Schakowsky, a popular progressive and one of the best Illinois members of Congress. Kennedy thought about running in the past. But he only made it to chairman of the scandalplagued University of Illinois Board of Trustees, appointed by former Gov. Pat “Who?” Quinn. But Pritzker can probably count on an endorsement from former President Barack Obama, who appointed his sister, Penny Pritzker, as the U.S. Commerce Secretary, after she made big donations. Obama will need a lot of donations for his legacy, the Obama Center — don’t call it a museum — on the South Side in Jackson Park in the Woodlawn neighborhood. Woodlawn ranks 13th worst when it comes to violent crimes in Chicago’s 78 neighborhoods. Jackson Park extends into Hyde Park, with one of the Chicago’s lowest crime rates, and South Shore, one of Chicago’s highest. Is that why the Kennedy family decided to give Obama the 2017 JFK Profile in Courage Award this past weekend in Washington D.C.? Hmmmmm! American elections are not decided by selecting the best, but by voters rejecting the “worst.” They vote based on who they dislike the most, and choose the other person. That’s how Donald Trump beat everyone else. You may not like him, but he wasn’t nearly as bad as the rest. The only way Rauner can win is if Pritzker and Kennedy get too personal. Rauner is the guy most people dislike. He won only because people disliked Quinn more. But Pritzker’s early big-spending ad campaign could be his undoing. With so many ads, you have to wonder if Pritzker worries about the value of a dollar. Ray Hanania is an award-winning columnist, author and former Chicago City Hall reporter. Email him at rghanania@gmail.com.
Thursday, May 11, 2017
The Reporter
7
Death came knocking, but ‘Chit Chat’ girls refused to answer
N
ancy Knapp Horn and Penny Graham Weaver, of Middletown, Ohio, describe themselves as two crazy girls with lots of good, clean, fun ideas. They’re not just girlfriends, they’re sisters. “I married her brother, Jerry, when I was 17 years old,” explained Nancy. “Eleven days before my 18th birthday.” This year they are celebrating 53 years of marriage! Nancy’s the sister-in-law that Penny refers to as her “sister-in-love.” The bond they have exceeds family ties. They are co-owners of a stationary business called Chit Chat Cards. They cut, punch, glue, stamp, glitter, glam, fold, stick, stuff, laugh, cry, and chit chat! They chuckled while reminiscing about their first time creating cards. “I was in a bad mood that day,” giggled Nancy. “I didn’t even want to touch the cards.” Fans of their friend Brenda’s handmade Christmas cards, they invited her over to Penny’s for a tutorial. However, Nancy’s mood was soured by a stressful encounter previous to her arrival to Penny’s house. With a little persuasion, she released the negative disposition and reached for the crafts covering Penny’s kitchen table. Like a therapeutic medicine, Nancy and Penny discovered creating cards helped them decompress. That was the inception of their pursuit to indulge in a hobby that eventually developed into a business. But first, they would have to evade a dance with death. It was 2012 when Penny’s persistent cough and Nancy’s stubborn acid reflux led them both to see their primary care doctors. “My doctor stuck a tube down my throat to see what was going on,” said Nancy. “I had to return to his office for a routine colonoscopy a week later and that’s when I got the results from my throat exam.” Ray Phillips is the senior pastor of Stratford Heights Church of God (COG) in Middletown. “My church secretary called my cellphone saying, ‘Nancy’s been diagnosed with cancer of the esophagus. She’s with her family. They need to see you; where are you?’” Pastor
Ray said as he was driving. He responded by saying, ‘I’ll go to them, where are they?’” “I couldn’t bring myself to go home so we went to a nearby restaurant,” explained Nancy. “Bob Evans, if I remember correctly,” stated Pastor Ray. “On my drive over to them, I prayed for God to give me His words to encourage them. I’ve been on staff at Stratford Heights COG 28 years, 10 as senior pastor. It’s not my desire to give false hope. I marry people and I also bury them. As Christians, our ultimate goal is to enter heaven’s gates to be with God. I don’t wish to pray people out of where they’re meant to be.” Stratford Heights isn’t a modest congregation. They have 1,300 members on their roster. If you’re impressed by Pastor Ray’s reaction to zip over to Bob Evans, what happened next might really get you pumped. “After praying, God gave me a peace that surpasses all understanding. That peace, which isn’t felt in all situations, was my confirmation that Nancy was going to live and not die,” expressed Pastor Ray. “I told Nancy that I had heard from the Lord and from that day forward we stood on His promise for her healing.” Nancy said Stratford Heights COG is connected to a prayer chain that reaches churches all over the United States. “Everyone was praying for me,” said Nancy. Three weeks later she saw a specialist in Beavercreek, Ohio. “I received healing without ever being medically treated, a CAT scan confirmed me cancer free,” Nancy said. That’s a healing miracle worthy of great celebration! Penny’s situation was much different. She had to endure three years before receiving her healing. That persistent cough yielded a gamut of trial and error treatments for a respiratory disease that Penny said is considered incurable. “It’s an auto-immune disorder that causes chronic hives. My prednisone treatments caused blurred vision, and sleep deprivation. I was on several inhalers and allergy medicines that left me unable to be in the sun. I used an umbrella every time I went outdoors. When I’d have a breakout, itchy welts covered me from my neck to my ankles. I was hospitalized for hives twice — 11 days each.” Penny’s failing health left her unable
to maintain responsibilities as president of the ladies group at Stratford Heights COG, and office manager of the medical office that employed her, a career she said she loved. With mounting medical bills, she and her husband of 36 years, Duane, decided to sell that little red Mercedes and their custombuilt home with an in-ground pool they’d lived in only three years. Penny said she was overwhelmed by her physical condition and uncontrollable life changes. “I didn’t handle it well. I slipped into a deep depression and became suicidal,” she said calmly. Her contemplations may have been many, but one night in particular, Nancy sensed real trouble and showed up on her doorstep. “She crawled into bed with me and began to speak life over me,” explained Penny. “She spent the night that night.” Nancy’s healing came through prayer, but Penny’s came through giving. From the depths of their anguish, Penny and Nancy began to pour themselves out and into others with a little chit chat while creating cards. “We’d make cards and give them away to people we knew and they started asking for more, in bulk,” exclaimed Nancy. There’s even a high-end boutique called Kathryn’s Home Accents, with locations in Cincinnati and Lebanon, Ohio, that are beginning to carry Chit Chat Cards exclusively. “When we sit down to create a card, it’s all about envisioning someone with a beautiful, funny, sad, happy piece of our heart in a one-of-a kind card,” said Penny. “We want our customers to know someone put their own love, laughter, and tears into making the card they’re sending,” elaborated Nancy. “Chit Chat Cards are crafted by two creative hearts.” More information can be found at www. ChitChatCards.Net Sometimes God requires us to give what we need before it’s released into our own lives. Penny was depressed, yet she found joy by encouraging others. I hope this story will inspire you to explore ways to plant the harvest you wish to eat from. Claudia Parker is an author, photographer and a reporter. Her columns appear every second and fourth Thursday of each month. She can be reached at AuthorClaudiaParker@yahoo.com
COMMUNITY CALENDAR
EVERGREEN PARK United Methodist Women plan Spring Banquet
well. More information on the softball teams for the summer camp programs can be obtained by calling (708) 598-1233.
Carnival will be held The United Methodist Women’s Spring ban- at Kasey Meadow Park
quet will be held at 6 p.m. Friday, May 12 at the First United Methodist Church, 9358 S. Homan Ave., Evergreen Park.The event brings women of all ages together, including mothers, daughters, grandmas and friends. Appetizers, dinner and dessert will be served. The fees are $12 for adults and $10 for children ages 5 to 12. Children under age 5 can attend for $8. Ticket reservation fees can be obtained by calling the church office, (708) 422-8451.
Evergreen Park Senior Council to honor veterans The Evergreen Park Senior Council held a luncheon and program beginning at 11 a.m. Monday, May 15 at the Evergreen Park Community Center, 3450 W. 97th St. Mayor James Sexton will join the organization as they honor local veterans. The barbecued beef lunch will be followed by Erik Lucky, who will provide a program full on fun and patriot music. The luncheon fee is $7. Tickets must be purchased by Monday, May 15 at the Community Center, Room 107. More information can be obtained by calling (708) 422-8776. Canned good donations for the Evergreen Park Village Pantry will be accepted.
HICKORY HILLS Men’s, women’s softball teams can sign up in Hickory Hills Registration for men’s and women’s softball teams is being offered this month through the Hickory Hills Park District at Kasey Meadow Park, 8047 W. 91st Place. Teams can register for a 16-inch women’s softball league on Monday nights, a 16-inch men’s league on Tuesday nights, a 12-inch men’s team on Wednesdays, a 16-inch men’s league on Thursday nights, and a 12-inch men’s league on Sundays. The leagues will begin play at the end of May. The Hickory Hills Park District is taking registration for all summer camp programs as
Runners
Continued from Page 1
Palos Health sponsored the half marathon for the second year in a row, and CNB Bank sponsored the 10K, and Diab thanked all the sponsors for their support. “I say it all the time, but we couldn’t do any of this without them,” said Diab, who owns Running for Kicks shoe store in Palos Heights. Prestinario thanked the runners as well, noting that they helped the event raise more than $225,000 for local charities over the last 10 years. “Thank you so much. This means the world to everyone participating,” said Lori Chesna, executive director of SWSRA, as she accepted a check for the association before the
The Hickory Hills Park District will hold a carnival from 5 to 10 p.m. beginning today (Thursday, May 11) and 5 to 11 p.m. Friday, May 12 at Kasey Meadow Park, 8047 W. 91st Place. The carnival will also be held from noon to 11 p.m. Saturday, May 13 and noon to 10 p.m. Sunday, May 14 at Kasey Meadow Park. Unlimited wristbands can be purchased for $30 per day. More information can be obtained by calling Kasey Meadow Park, (708) 598-1233.
Palos Hills Rec Department to offer Rules of the Road Class The Palos Hills Resource and Recreation Department, in cooperation with the Illinois Secretary of State’s office, will offer a free Rules of the Road Class from 9:30 to 11:30 a.m. Tuesday, May 16 at the Palos Hills Community Center, 8455 W. 103rd St. This class will review traffic laws and safe driving techniques that will give those attending the knowledge and confidence to obtain or renew their driver’s license. For more information or to register, call (708) 430-4500.
St. Mark Church members to honor vets with luncheon
Oak Lawn Garden Club prepares for plant sale The Oak Lawn Garden Club will hold their annual plant sale from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, May 20 at the Centennial Park Gazebo, 9400 S. Nashville Ave., Oak Lawn. Many mature perennials will be available from the gardens of members. Grasses, vegetables and herbs will be available for purchase. The day’s event will also include garden art and a treasure chest. No sales begin before 9 a.m. More information can be obtained by calling Pat Bugos, (708) 424-9193.
Members of St. Mark Lutheran Church are inviting veterans and guests for a special luncheon honoring them for their services from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, May 20 at the Marrs-Meyer American Legion Post 191, 11001 S. Depot, Worth. The event is open to current servicemen and women who are stationed at home or abroad. Veterans who have previously served are also welcome. Lunch, free drawings and door prizes will all be part of the festivities. To attend the event, contact Vivian, (708) 444-1720, or St. Mark Church, (708) 448-6555, by Friday, May 12.
PALOS HILLS
Worth Cruisers Car Club schedules weekly Cruise Nights
A variety of health screenings will be offered this month through the Palos Township Health Services at 10802 S. Roberts Road, Palos Hills. A free melanoma program will be held at 10 a.m. Wednesday, May 17. Free hearing screenings will be presented from 9 to 11 a.m. Tuesday, May 23. A free spine program will be presented at 10 a.m. Wednesday, June 21. Free hearing screenings will also be offered from 9 to 11 a.m. Tuesday, June 27. Residents who would like to register for a program or need more information can call (708) 598-2441.
races started. Besides helping to organize the event, Chesna was also there to cheer on her husband, Bob, who has walked in the Walk, Run and Roll event for the past two years, since suffering a stroke. Many spectators and participants had high praise for the organizers as well. “The energy is just great. I love the kickoff,” said Denise Allen, who walked over from her home near Lake Katherine to soak up the atmosphere. “It is really great for the community, too. It really brings a lot of people to town,” she said. Lynn O’Brien, Straz’s daughter, was also there with her children, Jack, 3, and Emma, 4. “Jack wanted to come down and see what was happening,” she said, as her son Jack laughed at the dancing of Astro, the Shepard High School mascot. Charlie
March of Dimes benefi fun
Abigail Walsh, 8, of Palos Hills, gets her face painted by Margi Kanter at the March for Dimes 5K event April 30 at St. Xavier University. The 5K portion of the race was cancelled because of rain, but a celebration still took place in the university’s Shannon Center, which consisted of a large breakfast buffet and face painting.
DEATH NOTICES James Kamphuis James T. Kamphuis, 79, an Oak Lawn resident, died May 4 at Little Company of Mary Hospital. Mr. Kamphuis was a butcher for Jewel Food Stores. Survivors include his wife, Jennie L. (nee Glas) Kamphuis; daughter, Jeannine Huck; son, James P. Kamphuis; sister, Carolyn Buntin; brother, Thomas Kamphuis; three grandchildren; and many nieces and nephews. Services were Tuesday from Colonial Chapel to Downers Grove Community Church. Interment was private.
Gwyndolin Meyer Gwyndolin V. Meyer , 97, a former longtime Worth resident, died April 3 in Napa, Calif. Mrs. Meyer was a retired supply service employee at Hinsdale Hospital. She also lived in Michigan for 20 years. A native of Indiana, she met her husband in Chicago, the late Robert Meyer. They later raised their children in Worth. She also supported and volunteered for the SDA Church, GSA-Troop 203, Oak Forest Hospital and Navajo Missions. Survivors include daughters, Donna Voth and Elyne Strauss; sons, Wayne Meyer and Larry Meyer; nine grandchildren; 18 great-grandchildren; and many nieces and nephews. Services were private.
Roseann Neary Roseann C. Neary (nee Dempsey), 80, died May 2 at her Worth home. Mrs. Neary was a homemaker. Survivors include her husband of 41 years, John; daughter, Catherine Higens; son, John Patrick; three grandchildren; and many nieces and nephews. Services are Friday from Curley Funeral Home to Our Lady of the Ridge Church. Interment followed at Holy Sepulchre Cemetery.
WORTH
OAK LAWN
Health screenings off red at Palos Township Health Services
Photo by Kelly White
The Worth Cruisers Car Club will hold their Cruise Nights from 6 to 9 p.m. every Monday through Oct. 6 in the parking lot of the Water’s Edge golf course, 11500 S. Harlem Ave., Worth.
Memorial Day observance will be held in Worth A Memorial Day observance will be held beginning at 11 a.m. Sunday, May 21 at Veterans Memorial Park, 111t Street and Harlem Avenue, Worth. The observance will be held at the Veteran’s Memorial Eternal Flame. Worth public officials will take part in the event, as well as the Marrs-American Legion Post 991.
Horse from Stagg High School, and the Trinity Christian College Troll also provided entertainment from the sidelines, and encouragement, especially for the Kids’ Dash runners. “I’ve never done it before but this is much better than the city events,” said Britney Bowater, of Palos Heights, after completing the 10K. “The course is flat and not as crowded.” Three friends, Adam Pirman, of Crestwood, and Erika Krachten and Karen Anderson, of Tinley Park, celebrated together after completing the 10K. Pirman said he enjoyed his first 10K, and Krachten said she was happy to be back in the event again after a five-year break. “This is the fifth anniversary of my grandmother’s death,” Kratchen said, explaining that she broke down during the race that year thinking of her. “I
had a mental block I had to get through,” she said, crediting her friends for their support. If the excitement of the youngsters in the Kids’ Dash was any indication, there will be no shortage of runners in future years, either. Some of the younger kids were so excited they ran farther than they had to. “We’ve got future half marathon runners,” said Prestinario, as the kids ran past the pylons where they were supposed to turn around. “I want to do it again,” said one girl. “God willing, we will be putting this on for many more years,” said Diab afterward, as he chatted with runners who stopped to thank him for another successful race. “How can you not get up when you see the runners high-fiving and celebrating when they finish? It makes it all worth it,” he said.
Funeral Directory Palos-Gaidas FUNERAL HOME
708-974-4410 FUNERAL HOME David Gaidas, Jr. Director
11028 Southwest Highway Palos Hills, IL 60465
“THE NEXT GENERATION TO CARE FOR YOU”
Owned and Operated by the Mintle Family
10701 S. Harlem Ave. Worth, IL 708.448.6000 “Your Neighborhood Funeral Home”
8 The Reporter
Thursday, May 11, 2017
New technology provides dental crowns in a single visit Oak Lawn couple share Exciting new technology is now available in our area to address dental health needs. Family Dental Care offers the availability of tooth-colored fillings and crowns, formed to exact tooth dimensions in a single office visit. The new approach to tooth restoration is made possible by innovative CEREC® CAD/CAM technology that designs and mills a custom ceramic restoration in less than 10 minutes. It means that in just 2 hours you can have a crown! There are no temporaries and no need for a second visit. It’s a precise fit.
surface is removed. The remaining healthy tooth substance is preserved.
All-ceramic fillings
All-ceramic fillings are an aesthetic alternative to gold, amalgam, and tooth-colored fillings.
All-ceramic crowns All-ceramic crowns are the most aesthetic solution for treating severely destroyed individual teeth. Conventional metal crowns are associated with other disadvantages than just inferior esthetic appearance. Gum irritation and impairment of taste or other sensations occur very frequently. All-ceramic crowns not only allow the perfect restoration of individual teeth, they also give you renewed self-confidence.
No unpleasant impression material Say goodbye to biting on impression material for several minutes, having a numb mouth and jaw ache. Your dentist now has a camera that can do this for you in seconds and then transfer this to the computer.
No bothersome temporary crown Temporary crowns are exactly what the name suggests: temporary. With CEREC® the final crown is inserted directly without any temporary compromises needed.
No follow-up appointment in most instances
Submitted photo
Dr. Stefan Dubas, CEREC® Certified Family Dental Care in Evergreen Park.
as lovely many years later as it is directly after receiving the crown.
Like a real tooth
CEREC® enables your dentist to insert esthetic ceramic crowns or partial crowns in a single session. The advantage of this is that only one appointment is necessary, which means only one injection, and then you can deal with other things than visits to the dentist.
Long-term stability More than just a theory: With CEREC® you can rely on quality that has been proven millions of times over in the practice. Furthermore, thanks to your new dental crown made by CEREC®, your smile will be just
Plaza
Continued from Page 1
outlet lot nearest 95th Street. Applebee’s had already been in operation for a number of years while the old Plaza was still open. “It’s all going along to the timetable,” said Sexton. “A lot of these stores could be up in June and July.” Sexton is also optimistic about the prospects for the old Evergreen Plaza Office Tower at 9730 S. Western Ave. Anthony
Cosmic Quest Continued from Page 1
it worthwhile.” One of those fans was Jessie Quilanta, a resident of Midlothian, who received a caricature drawn by Wilson. Quilanta said she was enjoying her day at the fan fest and was looking forward to a panel discussion on the origins of the Power Rangers. Another panel discussion took place on diversity through comics. Another presentation was held on how to bring your science fiction story to life through audio drama and podcasting. Jen Usellis, also known as Lieutenant Jenbom Vestai, entertained visitors as the Klingon Pop Warrior. Dressed as a warrior in a comic book world, she “battled” Julie Malnekoff to the delight of the crowd. Usellis
• Due to the translucency of ceramics, the dental crown looks like a real tooth. • In a ceramic dental crown, no dark edges are visible as is so often the case in conventional crowns. • Ceramic is very close to the hardness of the natural tooth, thus preventing wear of the tooth, which unfortunately so often occurs with other materials. • Ceramic is very well tolerated so allergic reactions are largely excluded. This is not the case with other methods and materials. • The CEREC® method is a gentle treatment for your teeth. Only the decayed tooth
All-ceramic veneers All-ceramic veneers provide the most aesthetic solution for chipped or discolored anterior teeth. All-ceramic veneers are ultrathin, highly esthetic veneers that are placed directly onto the visible surfaces of natural teeth, mainly at the front of the mouth. No visual difference can be detected between all-ceramic veneers and the adjacent natural teeth. Your entire appearance will improve dramatically. • Family Dental Care, located at 2803 W. 95th Street in Evergreen Park (across from Little Company of Mary Hospital), staffs experienced and certified CEREC® dentists. For immediate assistance and more information, contact them at (708) 425-1134. Weekend and evening appointments are available for your convenience. The website for Family Dental Care is www.FamilyDentalCare.com
Ruh, of RSA Properties in Merrionette Park, provided a few options for the Evergreen Park Village Board last fall. His one suggestion is to level the existing garage and have a ground level lot aligned and integrated with the new Evergreen Plaza parking lot. The space could provide locations for one or two retail lots, according to Ruh. A second alternative would be to build a new multi-level parking garage and incorporate one additional retail development along the street at the sidewalk level. Ruh said this would create attractive site lines and landscaping. Ruh would need the coopera-
tion of the village to implement this plan. The final option would be a simple renovation of the existing garage and building in accordance with current building codes for rehabilitation projects. Ruh, who has been in the construction business for 25 years, added that this would include some exterior improvements and alterations. Ruh added that this was not his preferred option. Sexton said he likes Ruh’s ideas and there is room for discussion. The opportunity to provide more parking and to make improvements on the old tower would be a plus, the Evergreen Park mayor said.
is not only a Klingon Pop Warrior, but she sings and plays guitar as well. She performed later in the day in the library lobby. Usellis was also at the same table as Marc Malnekoff, of Marok’s Imperial Emporium, who also entertained visitors in Klingon attire along with his wife, Julie. “We have a lot of fun,” said Usellis. “We make a lot of appearances and we were just at the Chicago Star Trek Tour.” Meanwhile, Mike Giba, of Alsip, was working on caricatures from his post. He has appeared before and entertained members of the Alsip and Oak Lawn Chambers of Commerce. “It’s been a fun time,” said GIba, who has been in the business for 12 years. Giba began his career in Iowa before moving to the Chicago area. While he enjoys attending various events, he enjoyed his day at the fan fest. “It’s more personal,” explained Giba. “You get a chance to meet people. I go to people’s
homes and parties. I meet a lot of people. How can you beat that?” Many exhibitors were on hand and several performances took place. Along with the singing Klingon Pop Warrior, a Chicago Lightsaber Academy performance also took place. Tandang Garimot, a martial arts and wellness instructor, helped to bridge the gap between martial arts and the Star Wars universe. The event was held outside the library at the gazebo. A steady crowd also played board games with a comic book or space-age theme. Face painting was also offered. An after-hours trivia session was held for adults at nearby PD’s Place. Wilson continued to talk to curious youngsters who were interested in his art. His stepdaughter joined him at the fan fest. “My stepdaughter likes to draw,” Wilson said. “She said I can’t do it like you. But I tell her you are doing fine. I’ve been doing this a long time.”
GET A BIGGER PIECE OF THE PIE
WITH DIRECT MARKETING SOLUTIONS FROM GG Media WE ARE YOUR ONE-STOP SHOP FOR ALL OF YOUR MARKETING NEEDS We design, print, research, stamp and deliver:
• Postcards • Flyers • Menus • Brochures • Newsletters • Custom Projects Quality targeting solutions Match back e-targeting Every door direct mailing Direct mailing
CALL US FOR A FREE QUOTE 708-448-4000 ask for Donna
GG Media
Your Marketing Partner
12243 South Harlem Ave. • Palos Heights
their enthusiasm for Lions Helen Keller Run/Walk By Kelly White Frank Kirar met his now wife, Roberta, through a mutual friend in 1992. Both coming from a divorce, Kirar and Roberta were nervous to begin a new endeavor, but they quickly realized they shared a lot of common interests. They continued to date and married five years later. They made their wedding vows on the same day of their first date. Now happily married for 20 years, the Oak Lawn couple has nine children combined from their previous marriages; three are Kirar’s and six are Roberta’s. The couple has a dozen grandchildren, making for quite the large family. “We may not have the biggest house, but we always fill it with love and enjoy our large family gatherings, especially around the holidays, where we have 35 to 40 people over at one time,” said Kirar, 70. The Kirars like hosting and especially helping others in any way they can, and this extends far beyond their family. For 48 years, Kirar has been an active member of the Oak Lawn Lions Club, where he has served as president twice, as well as treasurer and secretary. He is currently the club’s membership chair and on the board of directors, along with being the Foundation Trustee for the Lions of Illinois Foundation. Witnessing Kirar’s commitment to the club, Roberta joined the organization just three years after marrying him. She has been a member of the Oak Lawn Lions Club for 17 years and is their current president, serving her third term. “She became interested in the Lions Club when she saw it was such a passion of mine,” Kirar said. “Since she has joined, she has been a great member, remains very active and involved. We like spending time together and we do a lot of things together, so the club is a good thing for me and her because we are able to work together.” The Kirars joined over 200 people on April 30 in the seventh annual District 1-A Helen Keller 5k Fun Run/Walk at Richards High School in Oak Lawn. Kirar served as co-chairman for the event, alongside 22-year Burbank Lions Club member Chris Coleman, an Oak Lawn resident. The District 1-A is a part of Lions Clubs International, a network of volunteers who work together to answer the needs that challenge local communities. For nearly 100 years, Lions Clubs have provided resources for individuals who are
Hickory Hills Continued from Page 1
to see the response of the community. This is something we would like to do every year.” A new outdoor fitness center has been added to Kasey Meadow Park this spring. The Fitness Zone is located at the northwestern corner of the park near the baseball fields. Residents have been utilizing the assortment of machinery that focuses on cardio development. Visitors to the park eventually will have the opportunity to walk and jog along the completed paths and stop for some exercise on the new machines. Gus Papadrosos, a 35-year resident of Hickory Hills, did just that on Saturday at the park. He was accompanied by his daughter, Maria. The two spent the afternoon working out on some of the equipment that’s available. “It just opened this spring,” he said. “I think it is very good and we get in some exercise.” Fullerton hopes the rain will hold off, allowing the asphalt to dry for the walking paths. That is especially true for the stones that have been inserted along the walking path. The recent downpours have prevented the stones from solidifying. She remains optimistic and reminds everyone that more difficult scenarios have been overcome. “We had about five weeks of vandalism to equipment at the park that needed to be cleaned,” she said. “We had to go over a lot of it and that caused a delay. But we got through it.” The Hickory Hills Park District also was caught in middle of the budget stalemate in Springfield that is nearing two years. Gov. Bruce Rauner had frozen grant money for park district projects beginning in January 2015. Park district officials across the state lobbied Springfield by writing, calling and visiting with elected officials to pressure them to reverse the governor’s decision.
Photo by Kelly White
Roberta and Frank Kirar are happy to participate in the seventh annual Lions Helen Keller 5k at Richards High School in Oak Lawn on April 30.
blind or who have severe vision or hearing loss worldwide. This 5K was no different. With registration fees set at $30 per runner and $20 per walker, last year $18,000 was raised and profits went to benefit the Lions of Illinois Foundation. The foundation provides programs and services to the people of Illinois for the detection, treatment and rehabilitation of the visually and hearing impaired. Funding is also provided to the Chicago Lighthouse for the Blind, which provides programs and services for the blind, visually impaired and disabled, and to other charitable groups. This year, funds are expected to exceed that amount, according to Coleman. “All of us at The Chicago Lighthouse commend Lion Chris, Lion Frank and all the other Lions for their generosity,” said Dominic Calabrese, senior vice president of public relations at The Lighthouse. “The event is terrific.” “The 5K is a way to encourage people to get outdoors, have fun and enjoy walking or running all while helping out a great cause,” Coleman said. The event kicked off from Richards’ football field but continued on through the wooded area surrounding the high school. The 5K was timed only for the runners. “The location is really neat,” Kirar said. “It’s a wildlife area that is really pretty. It is definitely a challenge to the runners and a pleasure to the walkers.” The 5K was also an opportunity for community charity groups, such as boy and girl scouts, school clubs, booster clubs and church groups, to have 40 percent of the total amount they personally collected in donations returned to them for the benefit of their specific service activity. The remaining 60 percent will be donated to the Lions charitable organizations.
Fullerton was one of those park district officials who wrote letters to the governor. Up to $26 million in grant funding was made available for 75 projects across the state when the governor signed that bill. The money is part of the state’s Open Space Land and Acquisition and Development (OSLAD) program. When the governor originally froze the grant funding, it prevented construction of playground equipment in March 2015. The Hickory Hills Park District playground and splash pad equipment that was supposed to be sent on three semi-trucks for construction of the Kasey Meadow Park OSLAD project had to be sent elsewhere. Before the governor signed the bill to reverse the decision, the equipment had to be stored on a farm in Central Illinois but was still in the elements and often facing inclement weather. When the funding restrictions were lifted, the Hickory Hills Park District received $390,000 from the Illinois Department of Natural Resources for the overall $908,000 project. “Without the funding it would have been really challenging,” Fullerton said. “We would have had to take out the money from our recreation department fund.” Fullerton said the Hickory Hills Park District was awarded a grant for a small joint project with the city about 15 years ago. But this is the first grant that was exclusively awarded from the state for the Hickory Hills Park District. She was excited about the progress that was seen last fall and into November due to mild temperatures. Fullerton also mentioned that additional seeding has to take place for plants and grass at the park. “I think in about five weeks, it will look much better,” Fullerton said. “The paths and the stones have been our biggest hurdle. We are over 80 percent done. It will take time, but we will get there.”
Oak Lawn Community Garden seeks volunteers The Oak Lawn Community Garden is currently accepting registrations for the 2017 season. This is a cooperative project between the Oak Lawn Park District, School District 123, and the Village of Oak Lawn. The garden is located at the corner of 104th and Cook Avenue. Participants can grow their own produce or sign up to be a pantry garden volunteer to grow produce
for local food pantries. In the 2016 season, the Oak Lawn Garden Community Garden donated 350 pounds of produce to local charities. The 2017 goal is to double that donation. Allotments to rent are limited in availability. More information can be found at www.olparks.com or by emailing Dolly Foster, Oak Lawn Park District Horticulturist, at dfoster@olparks.com.
The Reporter
Thursday, May 11, 2017
Reporter correspondent legs out SW Half Marathon There’s pain but also plenty of pride in completing the event By Michael Gilbert I don’t often check the weather app. CBS Sports and YouTube typically dominate the data on my iPhone. But for the last week I can only surmise I’ve tapped the application with the cloud overlapping the sun approximately 20 times. Each time my eyes would immediately find Sunday, the date of the Southwest Half Marathon. Leading up to the 13.1-mile run it was the weather — not the distance — that was my biggest concern. Yes, 13 miles is a long way but it’s a distance I feel confident I can complete. How I felt when I got to the finish line, however, would have a lot to do with the weather. When temperature creeps toward the 70-degree mark it is amazing how much more difficult the run becomes for me. I’ll gladly take the cold over the heat when it comes to running. Therefore, I can’t express how happy I was when each time I opened the weather app the Sunday forecast called for a low around 40 and high of approximately 60. Of course, this is the Chicagoland, so the temperature can often fluctuate with little notice. I was relieved while en route to the race to see a business’ electronic sign display the temperature at 44 degrees — a perfect temperature for a nice, long run.
Setting a goal
My goal heading into the race was to run the course under 1:45. It’s not that 1:45 is a magical time in the half marathon world, but if I could reach that time it would mean my pace would be under eight minutes per mile. I long struggled to break the eightminute pace in 5K races so if I could do it in a race more than four times as long I would really feel as if I accomplished something, even if that pace would only leave me in the middle of my age group. I knew running under 1:45 would be a lofty goal considering my previous half marathon PR (personal record) was nearly two minutes slower, but I figured it was something to aim for while traversing through the Palos area. I figured my aim was going to be off the mark since I labored through a brief warm-up around the Palos Heights City Hall. I thought finishing 3.1 miles would be challenging enough on this day and could hardly imagine tacking on another 10.
…3, 2, 1, Go!
While I felt sluggish during my five-minute warm-up, once the gun sounded to start the half marathon the adrenaline kicked in and I found myself running at a 7:15 clip for the first halfmile. That pace would be fine for a 5K, but not a 21K. The course soon opened up and I got into a comfortable rhythm and finished the first three miles at right around the 7:40 minute per mile mark. I knew the next few miles would be difficult. While I average around six miles per day it’s usually done in two, threemile stretches approximately 11 hours apart. I head out before work and then again when I get home, and I rarely exceed three miles at one time. As I hit Mile 4 I could sense my body saying to me “Hey, shouldn’t we be done by now? Shouldn’t we be in the recliner with our feet up?”
Halfway home, ahead of pace
I hit the halfway point at around 50 minutes and doing the math in my head — which is more difficult than you might think when running — realized I was a few minutes under my goal time. Miles 7, 8 and 9 were a breeze, which was reassuring considering how I was feeling about 30 minutes earlier. I was now at Mile 10 and for the first time started to think about the finish line — mostly how I would like to be there now. The adrenaline rush I had received a few miles earlier was long gone and a bit of general soreness was creeping into my legs. Considering I seldom run 10 miles it was understandable, but not exactly welcome. At this point I was looking for a distraction to the task at hand while still trying to keep my legs moving. Thoughts about the Cubs first-inning pitching woes, the upcoming college football season and even the fact that my car is due for an oil change crept into my mind. I’m not a car aficionado in the
least but apparently after nine miles I’d rather think about replacing my engine’s oil filter than running.
Pain hits, end in sight
When I hit Mile 12 I told myself I was essentially four times around a quarter-mile track from finishing and receiving a fancy medal to add to my collection. I looked at the clock and realized I could run the last mile in 11 minutes and still finish under 1:45. I hit the intersection of 119th Street and Southwest Highway and the general soreness turned to full-on pain. I was using every motivational tactic I could to keep from stopping. Thankfully I have decent eyesight and the large, bright orange “FINISH” sign came into view. I was able to use whatever energy I had left — believe me, it wasn’t much — and sprint home and finish a little more than three minutes under my goal. After one of the nice and everpresent volunteers handed me a water and I was able to catch my breath, I headed back on the course to run the last quarter mile with my father, who has been my walking/running partner for more than 20 years. I found him and my uncle, who also ran in
Michael Gilbert, a correspondent for the Reporter, relaxes at home after running in Southwest Half Marathon this past Sunday. He said the pride of completing the half marathon outweighs the pain.
miles, but now 10 years later I had run one and set a PR in the process. So what does it feel like for a novice runner to finish a half marathon? There’s a lot of soreness — the compression socks are on as I write this article — but the pride outweighs the pain. With that being said, I think the elevator will become my best friend at work this week.
the half marathon, looking strong approaching the finish line.
Afterglow of a personal best
At the time I thought there was no way I could ever see myself running the equivalent of Burbank to Oak Brook. Heck, I don’t even like to drive 13
Supplied photo
MOM’S A GEM Express your love and gratitude with a Mother’s Day gift that will make her eyes sparkle.
25% OFF ANY
Jewelers
IN STOCK ITEM
12227 S. Harlem Ave.| Palos Heights 708-361-0700 | NoralJewelers.com
Now until Mother’s Day Excludes Repairs and Batteries.
Les Brothers Restaurant
43ANNIVERSARY nd YEAR
8705 S. Ridgeland Ave. • Oak Lawn • 708-599-7990
Family Owned & Operated
Breakfast • Lunch • Dinner
7730 W. 95th St. • Hickory Hills 708-233-0333 • Open 6am to 4pm www.les-brothers.com
Award-Winning Athenian-Style Skirt Steak
A Large and Juicy Skirt Steak Broiled in Lemon and Oregano Seasonings. Served with Greek Potatoes and Rice Pilaf
Lamb Chops
Three Chops Broiled in Lemon, Butter and Oregano for Extra Flavor. Served with Greek Potatoes and Rice Pilaf
Grecian-Style Chicken
– Monday Night –
– Tuesday Night –
– Wednesday Night –
– Thursday Night –
STEAK PASTA NIGHT SPECIAL
w/Greek Potatoes & Rice Pilaf
BBQ NIGHT
FIESTA MENU
w/Sweet Potatoes & Fruit Sauce
– Friday Night –
– Sundays –
A Half Chicken Broiled in Lemon, Butter and Oregano Seasonings. Served with Greek Potatoes and Rice Pilaf
Chef’s Special: Leg of Lamb Baked Virginia Ham
“GREEK DAY FISH w/Dumplings, Sauerkraut & Mashed Potatoes & Pan Gravy SPECIALS” Half Roast Chicken FRY w/Dressing, Garlic Mashed Potatoes & Giblet Gravy Enjoy Video Poker & Slots in the comfort of • Catering our Private Gaming Parlor in Oak Lawn D INNER BREAKFAST LUNCH New hours for gaming at Les Brothers 8705 S. Ridgeland 7am to 2am • Banquets S PECIALS S PECIALS COMPLIMENTARY S PECIALS Mon. thru Thurs. (Coffee, Mon. thru Fri. • Carry-Outs 6am to 11am Tea, Pop) REFRESHMENTS 11am to 3pm 4pm to 10pm • Gift Cards Dine-In Only FOR OUR PLAYERS! Roast Duck
Featuring Roast Leg of Lamb Plus Many More
• MONDAYS • Burgers & Chicken Breast $3.00 23oz. Domestic Drafts • 50¢ Boneless Wings • TUESDAYS • Steaks & Pastas • 50¢ Chicken Wings $5.00 Margaritas • $12.00 Corona Buckets
R E S TA U R A N T & B A R
Lunch • Dinner 11 am to 2 am
WE NOW HAVE VIDEO GAMING 7750 W. 95th St. • Hickory Hills 708-599-2333 • Fax: 708-599-2343 www.primetimerestaurantandbar.com
• Catering • Banquets • Gift Cards
9
• WEDNESDAYS • Half Price Pizza & Appetizer Menu • $5.00 Martinis $3.00 16oz. Import Drafts • $3.00 House Wines • THURSDAYS • 2 for $20 Menu • $3.00 ‘You-Call-It’ Shots Become the Star After 10pm with Karaoke • FRIDAYS • ‘Perfect 10 Special’ Includes 10oz. Crab Legs & 10oz. Prime Rib $5.00 Appletinis • $5.00 Margaritas $3.00 ‘You-Call-It’ Shots • Top 40 Music After 10pm • SATURDAYS • ‘Surf & Turf Specials’ Includes 10oz. Filet Mignon and 10oz. Lobster Tail Beef & Chicken Ka-Bob Combo $10.00 Domestic Buckets • SUNDAYS • ‘Greek Day Specials’ Featuring Roast Leg of Lamb Plus Many More $2.00 Domestic Bottles
Entertainment Thursday, Friday & Saturday Nights
10 The Reporter
Thursday, May 11, 2017
WHATIZIT?
Palos Hills Council salutes retiring public works commissioner By Michael Gilbert
Photo by Joe Boyle
The clue for this week’s Whatizit photo (above) is: Local lake. Send your responses with your name and hometown by noon Monday to thereporter@comcast.net. We had one person who had the correct answer to last week’s quiz. Oak Lawn resident Steve Rosenbaum knew that the photo was of the Jonathan Collins Activity Center, 9320 S. Central Ave., Oak Lawn, which is adjacent to St. Gerald Elementary School. The building is named after Lance Cpl. Jonathan Collins, a U.S. Marine and platoon leader serving in Iraq. He was killed at age 19 by a sniper bullet on Aug. 4, 2004 in Iraq. He was the grandson of longtime parishioners Alice Collins and the late John Collins. The center includes a multipurpose room with a full-size gym that serves as the home court for the school’s basketball and volleyball teams.
SUDOKU
A familiar face bid farewell during the Palos Hills council meeting last week, while eight others recommitted themselves to another four years with the city. Public Works Commissioner Dave Weakley said his goodbyes at the meeting May 4, a day before he was to retire after 23 years with city. On the same night Weakley was honored for his service to the city, the eight Palos Hills officials victorious on election day a month earlier were sworn into their new terms. Weakley was lauded by the council for his “tireless work ethic” and “dedication” to the city during a 15-minute ceremony that included a standing ovation from officials and approximately 30 people in the audience. Mayor Gerald Bennett presented Weakley with a plaque commemorating his time with Palos Hills. “I can’t thank you enough for being a part of this administration,” Bennett told Weakley. “You have done an outstanding job.” Bennett went on to praise Weakley for working with the Southwest Conference of Mayors, the Illinois Department of Transportation and the Metropolitan Water Reclamation District to coordinate projects “It gave me great pride to know you were our guy standing up at those meetings representing Palos Hills,” Bennett said. “You are respected even outside the city.” Ald. Joan Knox (1st Ward) referred to Weakley as a “renaissance man” for his knowledge beyond the realm of public works. “You know everything from mechanics to flowers to trees,” Knox said. “You also never seem to be bothered by anything that we asked of you regardless of the time of day or whether or not it was on the weekend. You were a terrific person to work with.” Ald. Marty Kleefisch (1st Ward) told Weakley he was “honored” to know him as a friend and also on a professional level. “You are a wonderful human being,” Kleefisch said. “We city officials are very fortunate to work with the caliber of department heads and employees that we have in the city, and you are certainly at the top
Photo by Michael Gilbert
Outgoing Palos Hills Public Works Commissioner Dave Weakley holds the plaque he received from the city council last week.
of that list.” Ald. Mary Ann Schultz (5th Ward) kept her comments short and sweet. “Dave, I love you and I’m going to miss you,” she said. “You always made our job easier up here.” Ald. A.J. Pasek (3rd Ward) drew laughs when he told Weakley he didn’t love him, but he was absolutely serious when he told the outgoing public works commissioner that he learned a lot and respected him. “I like you a lot,” Pasek said with a laugh. Weakley thanked the council for the plaque and the kind words and said he was “deeply humbled” by the years of dedication shown to him and his department. “I take away from you all of the experiences and your insights and support and I really, truly appreciate it,” Weakley said. “I’m so much a better person today from knowing and working with all of you.” Weakley came to Palos Hills after a dozen years working for the Village of Orland Park. He started in Palos Hills as superintendent of public works and spent 11 years working under longtime public works commissioner George Lutz. Weakley was promoted to the department’s commissioner when Lutz retired a dozen years ago. “(Dave) not only stepped into the department but he made quantum leaps to move
our public works department and water and sewer department along to where it is today,” Bennett said. “The modernization of our water and sewer department is second to none in the southwest suburbs.” Weakley said “being a part of the solution” is what he most enjoyed during his near quarter century with Palos Hills. “I truly enjoyed the challenge of the position, but I think more importantly I enjoyed being part of the solution,” Weakley said. “I’ll miss the employees that I worked with and the residents that I was able to help.” Weakley, 61, said he is retiring to spend more time with his family. He is on the cusp of celebrating his 38th wedding anniversary with wife Cheryll. Weakley also has two children, Dan and Rachel, and a 7-month-old granddaughter named Teagan. A former artist who briefly made stained glass windows for a living, Weakley also worked as a mechanic before joining the Village of Orland Park’s water department. Nicholas Oeffling, who has spent the last dozen years as Palos Hills superintendent of public works, was unanimously appointed by the council to succeed Weakley as commissioner. Prior to recognizing Weakley, the council voted unanimously to canvass the votes from last month’s election. Cook County Judge John C. Griffin then swore the winners into their new four-year terms. Bennett, Treasurer Kenneth Nolan, Clerk Rudy Mulderink and aldermen Ricky Moore and Knox ran in unopposed races. Aldermen Mark Brachman (2nd Ward), Pasek and Schultz were victorious in contested races. Bennett, who was just 30 when he was first elected mayor, was sworn into his 10th term last week. “If somebody had asked me back in 1981 whether or not I would be around this long I would have told them they are crazy,” Bennett said. “But I wouldn’t be here today without the support from the citizens of this community who have encouraged and supported me and the general administration of this city. “Going forth, all I can do is pledge to you what I have done over the last 36 years and that’s make Palos Hills the best that it can be.”
Moraine delays swearing in of elected officials By Kelly White
Answers on Page 12
CROSSWORD PUZZLE
Newly elected Moraine Valley trustees will have to wait to be sworn into office and begin their new roles. In less than five minutes, the governing board of Moraine Valley Community College ended its specially called meeting on May 2 due to a lack of a quorum by trustees. This came as a shock to board members who were present at the meeting. “This is the first time I have ever seen this happen,” said Joseph Murphy, the board chair. “It has to be the shortest board meeting in history.” By law, the board must have at least four of the eight trustees present in order to conduct a meeting, according to Moraine Valley officials. Along with Murphy, also present were John Coleman, vice chair, and Trustee Sandra Wagner. Student Trustee Hana Asfar was
also present. Missing at the meeting were newly elected Brian O’Neill and trustees Kimberly Hastings, Michael Murphy and Eileen O’Sullivan. Not included in the quorum but in attendance were Dr. Sylvia Jenkins, president of Moraine Valley, and Robert Sterkowitz, vice president of financial and business services and college treasurer. The board originally called the special meeting to swear in newly elected officials, O’Neill and Coleman, who was re-elected to the board. O’Neill will be taking the seat of Trustee Susan Murphy, who has served the board for the past 18 years from 19992017, working most recently as the board’s secretary. “In my years on the board, I have only seen a meeting called once before,” Susan Murphy said during the brief meeting. Board members were still congratulatory of the new trustees, as they wished farewell
to their former secretary. “I would like to thank Susan for her many years of service to the college,” Joseph Murphy said. “She will be missed by all of us here. I would also like to wish congratulations to John Coleman.” In addition to the swearing in of the newly elected officials, the board had also planned to reorganize the board with the election of chairman, vice chairman, secretary, along with appointing foundation representatives, Association of Community College Trustees and Illinois Community College Trustees Association representatives. The board was also planning to go over dates for regularly scheduled board meetings for the upcoming year. The board is scheduled to swear in the newly elected trustees and make the following appointments at its regularly scheduled meeting at 6 p.m. Tuesday, May 16 at the college, 9000 W. College Parkway, Palos Hills.
LIBRARY HAPPENINGS
CHICAGO RIDGE Lego Club will meet on Saturdays
ACROSS
DOWN
1 Vehicles with meters 5 Give the heave-ho 10 Fishhook point 14 Fabled monster 15 South Pacific island studied by Margaret Mead 16 Olympic sword 17 1987 Cher film 19 Refuses to 20 Plain text 21 Sophocles character for whom a Freudian complex is named 23 Lack of variety 27 Trail mix tidbit 28 Gradually become narrower 30 Group of eight 34 Time co-founder Henry 38 Track events 40 Put on the payroll 41 Tehran’s country 42 Armistice 43 Ireland, to an Irish poet 44 Painter Chagall 45 New Testament king 46 Monopoly card with mortgage values 47 __-Bits: letter-shaped cereal 49 Leaf under a petal 51 Escort’s offering 53 Great energy 58 Capital of Lithuania 62 Latest craze 63 Tinker with text 64 1945 Ingrid Bergman film 68 “What __ could I do? ” 69 Spine-tingling 70 Latvian capital 71 Collecting Soc. Sec., maybe 72 Threaded fastener 73 Tabloid twosome
1 Free tickets, say 2 Marketplace of ancient Greece 3 Dustpan go-with 4 Good judgment 5 Fla. clock setting 6 Cookie container 7 Outback bird 8 Chanel of fashion 9 Spoken for 10 2005 Nicole Kidman film 11 For each one 12 Eye care brand 13 “All __ are off” 18 Telegraphed 22 Batman and Robin, e.g. 24 Word before or after “mother” 25 Shows mercy 26 Assured payment of, as a loan 29 Duplicate again 31 Michelin product 32 New York border lake 33 Watch over, as sheep 34 Peru’s capital 35 River to the Caspian 36 Bellyache 37 2007 Amy Adams film 39 Family car 48 Tycoon Onassis 50 Sheepish youngster? 52 Inspiration sources 54 New Zealand native 55 Arctic dweller 56 Burn slightly 57 Respectful address 58 Zig or zag 59 On a break 60 Enumerate 61 On __: without a contract 65 Flub a line, say 66 Golf ball position 67 __ Alcindor: Kareem, formerly
Answers on Page 12
The Lego Club will meet at 11 a.m. Saturdays through May 20 at the Chicago Ridge Library, 10400 S. Oxford Ave. Library staff members will supply Legos and kids will supply the imagination. Children from kindergarten through eighth grade can build Legos. More information can be obtained by calling the library, (708) 4237753, or visit the website at www.chicagoridgelibrary.org.
Babies will hear stories, songs
Babies and toddlers up to 2 years old and their caregivers will listen to stories and hear songs from 10 to 10:30 a.m. every Thursday at the Chicago Ridge Library. The program will continue until May 18. More information can be obtained by calling (708) 423-7753 or visit the website at www.chicagoridgelibrary.org.
OAK LAWN
‘Kennedys in Chicago’ presentation to be held at library
Exotic animals will take center stage at library
The Flying Fox Conservation Fund will have 10 exotic animals to view and get close to at 6 p.m. Monday, May 15 at the Green Hills Library. The creatures include a fennec fox and a slow-moving sloth. The event is open to children of all ages and caregivers. This program is limited to the first 90 attendees. Register online at greenhillslibrary.org.
Tech Club to experiment with robotics
The Tech Club will gather for a session at 6 p.m. Tuesday, May 16 at the Green Hills Library. Children in the third through eighth grade will explore and tinker with technology and robotics. They will experiment with Makey Makeys, Squishy Circuits, the Mbot Robot and more. Registration is limited to 25. Register online at greenhillslibrary.org.
Science Lab is offered for kids
The next Science Lab session with Miss Emily will be held at 6 p.m. Wednesday, May 17 at the Green Hills Library. Children of all ages are welcome. However, kids under age 6 must be assisted by a caregiver. Register online at greenhillslibrary.org.
A presentation on “The Kennedys in Chicago” will be held at 7 p.m. Thursday, May 25 at the Oak Lawn Library. Historian and entertainer Clarence Goodman highlights the meaning of the Kennedy family in Chicago, as well as John F. Kennedy’s 100th birthday (May 29). Register online at the Adult Services Desk at the library or call (708) 422-4990.
Pizza and Movie Night
PALOS HILLS
Beer class etching program
Paper quilling workshop
Paper quilling workshops will be held from 12:30 to 2 p.m. or 2:30 to 4 p.m. Saturday, May 13 at the Green Hills Library, 10331 S. Interlochen Drive, Palos Hills. Also known as paper filigree, paper quilling is the art of rolling strips of paper and pinching or arranging the coils or strips into shapes and designs. Learn the different quilling techniques to create fun designs. Registration is limited to 20 per workshop. Due to high demand, two sessions of this program are being offered. However, patrons are limited to registering for only one session, The event is for adults only. Register online at greenhillslibrary.org.
“Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them” will be screened at 6 p.m. Thursday, May 18 for “Pizza and Movie Night” at the Green Hills Library. Guests can snack on pizza and drink pop while they watch a PG-13 film. No registration is required. Space is limited to 30 attendees. The movies is for ages 10 to 17. Register online at greenhillslibrary.org. Green Hills Library patrons can craft over drinks and appetizers during a beer class etching session at 7 p.m. Thursday, May 18 at the Imperial Oak Brewing, 501 Willow Blvd., Willow Springs. The event is designed for people in their 20s and 30s. All supplies will be provided. Register online at greenhllslibrary.org.
Lunch will be served along with history lesson on Kennedys
Lunch will be provided from the Corner Bakery for a session on “One Brief Shining Moment: The Kennedys in Chicago” to mark the 100th birthday of President John Kennedy at 11:30 a.m. Friday, May 19 at Green Hills Library, 10331 S. Interlochen
Drive, Palos Hills. The program will focus on Kennedy’s birthday (May 29) and his family’s legacy. The history of the Kennedys extend through the country, including Chicago. Join historian and musician Clarence Goodman to learn more. Registration is limited to 45. This event is for adults only. Registration is limited to 45. Register online at greenhillslibrary.org.
Patrons can learn how to make beautiful garden
Patrons can learn how to make a beautiful garden during a session scheduled at 7 p.m. Monday, May 22 at the Green Hills Library. All supplies will be provided. Registration is limited to 35. The event is for adults only. Registration is limited to 30. Register online at greenhillslibrary.org.
Youths can learn how to make Instagram slime
Youths ages 10 to 17 can learn how to make three types of slime from Instagram that can be taken home after the session that will be held from 6 to 7:30 p.m. Tuesday, May 23 at the Green Hills Library. Guests will learn how to make the trendiest slime straight from their Instagram feed. Registration is limited to 30. Register online at greenhillslibrary.org.
‘Hidden Figures’ is Afternoon Movie
“Hidden Figures” is the next Afternoon Movie that will be screened at 2 p.m. Wednesday, May 24 at the Green Hills Library. The event is for adults only. One person will have an opportunity to win a copy of the movie. Refreshments will be served. Register online at greenhillslibrary.org.
Kids Trivia Night
Kids Trivia Night will be held at 6 p.m. Thursday, May 25 at the Green Hills Library. Trivia night will consist of four rounds of questions that will take place in a group setting. Refreshments and prizes will be offered. The program is for children ages 7 and up. Register online at greenhillslibrary.org.
Family Movie Time
Family Movie Time will be held at 4:30 p.m. Friday, May 26 at the Green Hills Library, 10331 S. Interlochen Drive, Palos Hills. The free movie, popcorn and juice will be provided for the whole family. All ages are welcome. Register online at greenhillslibrary.org.
CONSUMER NEWS
Thursday, May 11, 2017
Dot Foods opens distribution center
W
A
Submitted photo
Dot Foods president Dick Tracy opens the new distribution facility last week in University Park.
stronger presence,” said Tracy, who is the youngest of the second generation of the founding Tracy family. “We started looking about three years ago,” he said. “Normally, we would have built a distribution center from scratch, but Reinhart said this site was available and it was about as close to something we would build ourselves as we have ever seen.” “We were worried about finding workers with the right skills, but the employees we have found have been great,” said Tracy. “We’re still looking for good employees as we expect to triple the number of jobs as we expand.” Tracy said Dot Foods attracts good employees through competitive pay as well as a top benefits package that includes health insurance, prescription drug insurance, dental, vision, life insurance, 401(k) with company match, profit sharing and college tuition reimbursement. To learn more about careers at Dot Foods visit DotFoods.com/careers and follow @DotFoodsCareers. For more on opportunities available with Dot Transportation, visit DriveForDot.com.
Dollar General opens in Monee
Tennessee-based Dollar General’s newest store at 25700 S. Governors Highway in Monee is now open. “Dollar General is committed to delivering a pleasant shopping experience that includes a convenient location, a wide assortment of merchandise and great prices on quality products,” Dan Nieser, Dollar General’s senior vice president of real estate and store development, said in a release. “We hope our area customers will enjoy shopping at Dollar General’s new location.” Dollar General stores offer convenience and value to customers by providing a focused selection of national name brands
and private brands of food, housewares, seasonal items, cleaning supplies, basic apparel and health/beauty products. The store’s fresh layout is designed to make shopping simple for customers. Seasonal products are displayed in the center of the store, departments are easily recognizable with visible signage and coolers are conveniently located at the front of the store. Dollar General stores usually employ from six to 10 people.
Sephora now open at River Oaks
The new Sephora store is now open inside the J.C. Penney store at River Oaks Center in Calumet City.
Redbird Cafe now open in Homewood
A new farm-to-table restaurant is now open in Homewood. The Redbird Cafe opened May 1 at 2057 Ridge Road and is open for breakfast and lunch, though dinner hours may be added. Owner Kim Nolen aims to provide healthy, locally produced food for the south suburban community. The space at Redbird includes artwork provided by local artist Annie Lawrence and Erin McLeod. Other work was provided by students at Homewood-Flossmoor High School. In addition to regular tables, Redbird features a long community table topped with pennies that is designed to have strangers break bread together. Hours are from 6:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday to Friday, but the full menu is only available until 2 p.m. There is a separate brunch menu from 9 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday. If you see a new business in town or wonder what happened to an old favorite, drop me a line at bobbong@hotmail.com.
type of long-term care, ith Mother’s such as an extended Day around stay in a nursing home the corner, or the services of a you might wonder if home health aide, the you should go beyond costs could be extremechocolates and flowers ly high, and Medicare this year and give typically pays little of Mom something that these expenses. So you can help her far into might want to connect the future. What sort Scott your mother with a of financial gift can Johnson financial professional, improve her life? who can provide strateYou could, for ingies for protecting her from stance, encourage your mother long-term care costs. to fund her IRA. As long as Here’s one more suggesshe has any earned income, she tion: Give a gift to a chariis eligible to invest in a traditable organization your mother tional or Roth IRA (although supports. Even though you’re a Roth IRA does have income making the gift in Mom’s limits which, if exceeded, will reduce and eventually eliminate name, you should be able to contributions). In 2017, the IRA reap some benefits yourself, even apart from the good contribution limit is $5,500, or feelings you’ll get by helping $6,500 for individuals age 50 a charitable group. As long as or older. Traditional IRA contributions the charity has 501(c)(3) status (named after the section of the may be deductible, depending Internal Revenue Code that on one’s income, and earnings governs such groups), your gift can grow tax deferred. Taxes can offer you tax advantages. are due upon withdrawal and On the most basic level, a gift withdrawals prior to age 59½ of cash can earn you a tax may be subject to a 10 percent deduction. So, for example, if IRS penalty. Roth IRA contriyou are in the 25 percent tax butions are not deductible, but bracket, and you give $1,000 to earnings are distributed taxa qualified charity, you will be free, provided an investor has able to deduct $250 from your had the account at least five taxes. years and doesn’t start taking You may be able to get withdrawals until age 59½. even more tax benefits if you You can’t contribute directly donate appreciated assets, such to your mother’s IRA, but you as stocks, to a charity. If you can give her money to use for give appreciated stocks you’ve that purpose, if she chooses. held for more than one year, And since she has until April 17, 2018, to fully fund her IRA you can deduct the value of the securities, based on their worth for the 2017 tax year, your gift when you make the gift – and now may help make it that neither you nor the charity will much easier for Mom to “max have to pay capital gains taxes out” on her account. on the donated investments. Here’s another suggestion: Your mother has done a lot Consider helping Mom pay one for you. This Mother’s Day, or two months’ worth of insurshow her you appreciate her ance premiums. It’s possible efforts. that your mother is paying for multiple insurance policies, like Scott Johnson, CFP, is a life insurance and disability or financial advisor with Edward long-term care insurance, so Jones, 8146 W. 111th St., Palos any financial help on your part Hills, (708) 974-1965. Edward would be valuable. Jones does not provide legal You might also want to give advice. This article was writMom some tips on how she ten by Edward Jones for use can help maintain her financial by your local Edward Jones independence throughout her financial advisor. life. If she ever needed some
Burke-backed measure to prevent wage discrimination passes House Legislation sponsored by state Rep. Kelly Burke (D-36th) to end wage discrimination by requiring employers to pay the same wage to workers who have the same experience and do the same job recently passed the House. “Women have historically made less than men and it’s time to take steps to right this injustice,” Burke said. “Wage discrimination affects all of our society, by driving down income for women and preventing female-led
households from escaping poverty.” Burke’s House Bill 2462 prohibits employers from paying different salaries to employees who do the same job and have the same experience. Burke’s measure also makes it illegal for an employer to require potential employees to reveal their past wage or salary during the job application process. The goal of her legislation is to address the fact that women have historically been paid less.
Massachusetts and the city of Philadelphia recently enacted similar legislation. “Closing the wage gap will not only benefit women and their families, but will have economic benefits for Illinois businesses by putting more money in the pockets of consumers,” Burke said. “Our state must take the lead when it comes to fighting for the rights of women and this bill is another way we can accomplish this important goal.”
Rediscover the wonders of wine
A
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
of moderate exercise and a diet rife with fruits and vegetables it can improve health, protect the body from cancer and heart disease, and prolong life. Try drinking a small glass of wine after waking up in the morning — this is especially true for elderly persons and those with circulatory issues — and you will notice within minutes that you will feel better. No, not because of the alcohol, because it helps the blood flow more freely around the body, bringing oxygen and other nutrients to the extremities. Wine has stood the test of time. It was drunk 10,000 years ago and is more popular than ever today, especially now that medical research has proven wine to be a legitimate food and medicine. It is without question that wine is here to stay. Anthony Scarano is not a doctor. He is an Evergreen Park resident, winemaker and certified naturopath. Suggestions in this space are his opinions based on years of independent study and personal experience. Wine should be consumed in moderation. Overindulgence may be harmful to your health.
Burke
Free home buyer seminar to be held at Marquette Bank
A free home buyer education seminar will be held from 10:30 a.m. to noon Saturday, May 20 at Marquette Bank, 15959 S. 108th Ave., Orland Park. The seminar will cover the information about the mortgage loan process, various financing options and requirements, as well as first-time home buyer grant opportunities. To register for the event, call (630) 222-0491.
AREA PROPERTY TRANSFERS
THE BEST OF THE WINE GUY Japanese researcher last October discovered chemicals in red wine contain antioxidants that may protect the body from many forms of cancer. What a wonderful discovery! Why is wine so powerful? Well, like all plants, the grapes from which wine is made absorb the nutrients in the soil. The crushing of grapes during winemaking releases these vitamins, minerals and other compounds such as resveratrol, the latter being a substance produced by grapes in response to fungal infection and which has cardiovascular benefits. These dissolved nutrients in the grape juice are easily absorbed by the body upon drinking wine, making the beverage an excellent dietary supplement. Over the years, wine received a bum rap, likely because during the Great Depression it was widely drunk by street folk who wanted to forget their troubles. It was classier then and for many years afterward to drink hard liquors in fancy glasses. Hard liquors, by the way, are highly alcoholic poisons that strip the body of nutrients. The negligible amount of alcohol in wine, however, is perfectly safe when consumed in moderation. One can drink as much as a liter of wine a day — not all at once, of course — with no ill health effects. It wouldn’t do a whole lot of good if a person’s diet is filled with less nutrition, potentially harmful foods, but when teamed with a lifestyle
11
Give Mom a gift to help boost her financial future
COMINGS & GOINGS
food distributor from downstate Mount Sterling held a grand opening for its 10th distribution center in south suburban University Park last week. Dot Foods is the nation’s largest food industry redistributor. On May 4, it opened a 191,000-squarefoot facility at 251 Central Ave. The company supplies more than 118,000 products from 835 food manufacturers to food distribution companies, which in turn send the foodserBob vice, convenience, retail Bong and vending products to grocery stores and supermarkets and other retailers in all 50 states and 25 countries. “We buy in bulk and send items to distributors throughout the area,” said Chicago-area General Manager Mike Ford. The University Park facility was purchased in 2015 from Reinhart Foodservice and includes dry, frozen and cooler warehouse space. Since the purchase, Dot Foods has added a gate station, garage, fuel station and scale. More work on the building is continuing. “We’re working on a $1 million breakroom for the employees,” said Ford, adding the company has about 30 additional acres on which to expand operations. Ford said Dot expects to double the size of the warehouse by 2020, which would make it the second largest in the company behind only the main complex in Mount Sterling. Dot employs more than 150 people at its new facility. Over 100 of those were hired within the last year, with the remainder being employees who transferred from the company’s former Joliet operation. Dot Foods Chicago is hiring both Regional Class A Company Delivery Drivers and Warehouse Order Selectors with a goal of employing 350 people from University Park and the surrounding area by 2020. “We have had a presence in the Chicagoland area almost since we started,” said company president Dick Tracy. He took over in January as president of the familyowned and operated business. “After gaining more and more customers and adding more and more area food manufacturers, we knew we needed a
The Reporter
Kozlowski George K to Qatanani Tareque, 10310 Ridgeland Ave, Unit #103, $42,000; LPG Prop Inc to J & K Prestige Prop Inc, 6440 W Pamela Ln, Unit #644011, $50,000; Federal Home Loan Mtg Corp to Olivia & Assoc LLC, 10304 Ridgeland Ave, Unit #101, $36,000.
Evergreen Park Nicholas Penelope R to Gudino Jose M, 9246 S Troy St, $193,000; Chicago Title Land Trust Co Tr to Cerniauskas Nicholas, 10208 S Utica Ave, $151,500; Dombro Laura P to Sauseda Starr, 2734 W 97th St, $165,000; Callahan Michael Gerald to Winters Martin D, 9835 S Avers Ave, $200,000; Judicial Sales Corp to Mehra Real Estate Inc, 9760 S Albany Ave, $118,000; Ryan & Joyce Dev LLC-Blue to Mcginnis Matthew, 9758 S Central Park Ave, $200,000.
Hickory Hills Deis Samar Nazmi to Awad Mohsen S, 8100 107th St, $300,000; Duffy Georgianne Tr to Kepuraitis Therese Trust, 9100 W 91st Pl, $135,000; Morawa Remodeling Inc to Oceguera Jorge, 9348 S 87th Ave, $290,000.
Oak Lawn Hardesty Michael E to Perez Filiberto, 880 S Mcvicker Ave, $223,000; Dantonio Danielle to Busse Ryan, 11008 S Keating Ave, Unit #110083E, $52,500;
Koziol Stephen J to Mikutis Ashley L, 5117 101st St, $166,500; Boswell Deanna L to Abdellatif Fatmeh, 9535 Mayfield Ave, Unit #204, $74,000; Fannie Mae to Mithaiwala Taha, 9622 Karlov Ave, $120,000; Brill Steven to Albritton Jacob, 9101 53rd Ave, $228,000; Egan James Extr to Foran Daniel E, 4105 98th St, Units #86&86G, $70,000; Kirwan Daniel S to Perez Veronica, 9604 Merton Ave, $139,500; Gorz Eleanor D to Rodriguez Dimas G, 10732 Laporte Ave, $195,000; Johnson A Jeane Tr to Janicke James, 11020 S Keating Ave, Unit #209, $125,000; Blanco Heraclio to Ramirez Floriberto, 9717 Massasoit Ave, $223,000; Mack Investments I LLC to Fraser Glenn A, 6322 W 99th St, $150,000; Coghill Martha J to Bailey Deborah, 10314 S Komensky Ave, Unit #2C, $45,000; Jarek Helen E to Ugochukwu Sebastian, 10420 S Circle Dr, Unit #33B, $101,500; Marquette Bk to Podolski Jason M, 5258 W 89th St, $115,000; AG & Grp LLC to Padilla Julia, 9621 Mayfield Ave, $183,000; Miller Mary Ann Tr to Valenzuela Sandra L, 10529 S Kenton Ave, $215,000; Grobarek Joseph Jr to Flores Rolando Sr, 5923 Lynwood Dr, $100,000; Awesome Homes & Cap LLC to Verdal Alejandro, 5320 Alexander Pl, $222,500; Tuinstra Sally J to Rasko Cecilia A, 11012 Kilpatrick Ave, Unit #11012SW2, $72,500; Fannie Mae to Elam Kaleb Blake, 9130 Pulaski Rd, Unit #1E9130, $81,000; Halal Jennifer M to Krych Michael F, 10025 S Kostner Ave, $165,000.
Palos Hills Ehlers Linda L to Stonkus Ryszard, 9695 S Keane Ave, Unit #4D6,
$5,000; Chodora Rudolph Tr to Taltsidis Denise, 9046 Del Prado Dr, Unit #90461S, $166,500; Mikoles Leslie Simon to Cerkevicius Arnoldas, 14 Cour Caravelle, $80,000; Chicago Title Land Trust Co Tr to Williams Sylvester, 11138 Center Rd, Unit #1138C22, $137,000; Meier Blake to Maragia Michael, 11127 O Gorman Dr, Unit #22G, $115,000; First Midwest Bk Tr to Knapczyk Jozef A, 8716 W 97th St, $269,000.
Worth Reyes Iris Alanis to Caspar Bruce, 10602 S Depot St, Unit #10602GA, $36,500; Fecht Robert Jr to Guzman Rhonda S, 6537 W Home Ave, $180,000; Kornacka Malgorzata to Perez Luis E, 7102 W 107th St, Unit #1F, $72,000; Bilski John B to Bukowska Josefa, 7530 W 111th St, Unit #1C, $78,000; Brown Christine Tr to Investpro LLC, 11411 S Harlem Ave, $640,000.
Mortgage Rates Around the Area First Midwest Bank (as of May 1) 30-year fi ed
RATES 4.000
APR 4.035
POINTS 0
15-year fi ed
3.250
3.305
0
30-year fi ed Jumbo
4.125
4.170
0
United Trust Bank (as of May 9) 30-year fi ed
RATES 4.125
APR 4.146
POINTS 0
15-year fi ed
3.375
3.411
0
10-year fi ed
3.375
3.428
0
Prospect Savings Bank (as of May 9) 30-year fi ed
RATES 4.000
APR 4.069
POINTS .25
20-year fi ed
3.875
3.970
.25
15-year fi ed
3.250
3.370
.25
All rates subject to change daily. Equal opportunity lenders.
12 The Reporter
SCHOOL NEWS
Thursday, May 11, 2017
North Palos Board members decide not to seek re-election
Submitted photo
Candy Kramer (left) and Chris Slowik hold up a cake they were presented with at a North Palos School District 117 Board meeting last month. The two board members decided not seek another term in the April 4 election.
Chris Slowik and Candy Kramer have both decided to step down and not seek another term on the North Palos School District 117. Slowik served 20 years during her first term and recently completed nearly 51/2 years after stepping in to complete and unexpired term. She decided not to seek re-election on April 4. Kramer also decided not to seek re-election after completing a four-year term. Both were honored at the April 18 board meeting. “Chris has incredible insight as to what is happening in education, both from being a parent and grandparent to her long involvement with South Cooperative Organization for Public Education
(SCOPE),” said Tom Kostes, board president. “Chris always listened to all sides of a discussion and made good, informed decisions.” Kostes praised Kramer for her work on the board. “Candy’s background as an educator and an administrator allowed her to know the issues inside and out and make decisions that were best for the students,” he said. “She is a mother with young children in the district and she remains involved in their lives and in the issues facing students. The district has interviewed potential candidates to fill the two seats that are currently vacant. For more information on serving as a board member, call Rita at (708) 233-5762.
The Brother Rice High School robotics team celebrates after winning the Shedd Midwest MATE Regional. Submitted photo
Brother Rice robotics team wins Midwest Regional, advances to international competition in California The Brother Rice High School robotics team swept the competition at the Shedd Midwest MATE Regional Championships held on April 29 Rice placed first in pool missions, presentation and marketing display. The Crusaders placed first overall and now qualifies for the international competition in June in Long Beach, Calif. “I am so proud of the students on our team. Months of hard work and cooperation really paid off today,” said Dan Mostyn, the Brother Rice coach. “I can’t wait to watch them represent Brother Rice, the city of Chicago and their country at the
international competition in June.” MATE’s international student underwater robotics (remotely operated vehicle or ROV) competition consists of an international event and a network of 28 regional contests. Student teams from upper elementary schools, middle schools, high schools, home schools, community colleges, universities, and community organizations, such as the Boys and Girls Club and 4-H, participate. The 2017 MATE International ROV competition will take place Friday, June 23 through Sunday, June 25 at Long Beach City College.
OLCHS seniors excel in journalism competition Italian American Cuisine
Italian Specialties – Seafood – Prime Rib – Steaks – Chops – Pizza
Mother’s Day, Sunday May 14 Open 1:30pm-8:00pm Call For Reservations Enjoy a Great, Special Mother’s Day Menu and a FREE FLOWER for Mom Great Food, Generous Cocktails... Always at Reasonable Prices
8650 Joliet Road (1st Ave. & Joliet Rd.) McCook, IL 60525
708.387.0030 jcsristorante.com
The predominantly-led seniors of the Oak Lawn Community High School team placed seventh at the IHSA Journalism State Competition held April 28 at Eastern Illinois University. The teams compete in journalistic events such as Yearbook Layout and News Writing against the competitors who earned a spot by placing in the top three at the six sectionals around the state. “This really is the best of the best at the state competition,” said Patrick DiFilippo, the OLCHS journalism coach “Our seniors took on this challenge and relished the opportunity to see how they stack up against other programs from around the state.” The Spartans placed in four out of the six events. Senior Jade Ryerson earned a second place in state for Headline Writing. Senior Salam Mulhem earned back to back second in state medals for Infographics. Senior Allison Templin, in her third time at the state competition, earned a sixth place for Broadcast News. Junior Anna Komperda earned a fifth in state for Yearbook Caption Writing.
Submitted photo
The Oak Lawn Community High School journalism team placed seventh at the IHSA Journalism State Competition last month at Eastern Illinois University.
Trinity Christian ranked in Top 50 Best Small Colleges Trinity Christian College in Palos Heights was named as being one of the Top 50 Best Small Colleges in the U.S. in a recent ranking.
Trinity Christian College, which ranked 20th, was recognized in part because officials state that the college makes it a point that prospective students know how much financial aid is possible. With tuition at $21,772, for students who fill out the FAFSA, 67 percent is covered, and overall 98 percent of incoming students receive some financial aid. The information was gathered data from the National Center for Education Statistics regarding enrollment, retention, graduation rate, tuition, and degrees to narrow down the list to the top 50. These were ranked based on
a scoring rubric based on 500 to 2,000 undergraduate students, availability of campus housing, graduate degrees offered, over 50 percent graduation rate, no more than $30,000 for tuition, a student to faculty ratio 15 to 1 or less, and a 74 percent or higher retention rate to give us the best small colleges our nation has to offer. Best College Review officials state that small colleges offer an opportunity for a close relationship with professors, a community where it is possible to recognize almost everyone on campus, and intimacy that is lacking on larger campuses.
St. Patricia students stage all-school performances of ‘The Wizard of Oz’ Students at St. Patricia Elementary School in Hickory Hills put on an all-school production of “The Wizard of Oz” last month. Students from the third through eighth grade were encouraged to participate in a double cast performance. The younger students were involved in the Kids Cast providing the entertainment between the acts of the main play. The St. Patricia Drama Club is in its 15th year. The club is currently being led by Jessica Scialo and Noreen Campbell, who said it is great to see the impact they have on the students. But they also said that alumni who return each year to get involved in the production is also rewarding. Cast Sweet starred Samantha
Florey as Dorothy, Heidi Heimberg as the Scarecrow, Nicole Kane as the Tin Man, Nicolette Distel as the Cowardly Lion, Curtis Roberts as the Wizard, and Jenna Roberts as the Wicked Witch. Cast Awesome was led by Kiersten Gardner as Dorothy, Jason Dornbos as the Scarecrow, Diego Reyes as the Tin Man, Robert Mullan as the Cowardly Lion, Nathan Tueres as the Wizard and Neive McInerney as the Wicked Witch. Viewing of both performances are featured on the School Showcase at www.stpatriciaparish.com. For more information about St. Patricia in Hickory Hills, visit the website at www.stpatriciaparish. com
District 123 offers preschool and kindergarten registration Registration for the District 123 Tuition Preschool and Kindergarten is being offered for the 2017-18 school year. Interested families can enroll their chidren online at d123.org/ enroll. Registration for Tuition Preschool is based upon avail-
SUDOKU
Answers
ability. Registration will be offered for children turning 3 years of age by Dec. 31, 2017. Full-day and partial-week options are offered. More information can be obtained by calling (708) 857-5020 or visit D123.org/KDG.
CROSSWORD
Answers
SPORTS The Regional News • The Reporter
KenJeff Karrson, Vorva,Sports SportsEditor Editor••sports@regionalpublishing.com sports@regionalpublishing.com
Southwest • Section 2, Page Southwest • Section 2, Page 1 1
Thursday, May 5, 11,2015 2017 Thursday, March
Looking for the Sandman and Hey There Delilah
Photo by Jeff Vorva
Supplied photo
Richards coach Brian Wujcik (left) won his 500th career baseball game on May 2. Wujcik says former Richards football coach Gary Korhonen (right) was instrumental in his success as a coach.
Emulating Coach K Wujcik wins 500th baseball game, tips cap to former Richards football coach By Jeff Vorva Sports Editor
Photos by Jeff Vorva
For the second year in a row, Chicago Ridge’s Roberto Ortega (left photo) won the Southwest 10K run on Sunday, but this year he did it after one hour of sleep. Former Queen of Peace student Delilah DiCrescenzo, who went on to become a world class steeplechase athlete and cross country runner, won the women’s half marathon. And she will be forever linked with the song “Hey There Delilah” by the Plain White-T’s. For a wrapup on the races and a column by Jeff Vorva, see page 4.
Sinker de Mayo
See WUJCIK, Page 3
Riding her Ko-tails Sandburg senior keeps area streak alive by qualifying for state badminton tourney By Jeff Vorva Sports Editor
Marist bass fishing boat qualifies for state finals By Jeff Vorva Sports Editor
Out of 22 bass fishing sectionals around the state that were scheduled for Friday — Cinco de Mayo — 12 were postponed until Monday because of windy conditions. Marist anglers were STATEMENT glad to be in one of the sectionals that braved GAMES the wind on Friday and were even happier that a couple of big, hungry fish were hanging around the RedHawks’ second boat on the Des Plaines River. Marist’s No. 2 boat was the lone boat from the area to qualify for the Illinois High School Association state finals, which will be held May 19-20 at downstate Carlyle Lake. The RedHawks boat of junior Sean Murphy (who resides in Oak Lawn) and freshmen Parker Gass (Chicago-Ashburn) and Dan DeMars (Chicago-Beverly) joined driver William O’Neill in finishing third to grab the final state spot at the Reavis Sectional, held at the Big Basin Marina in Channahon. The RedHawks caught a couple of monsters, weighing a total of 4 pounds and 11 ounces, and were one of the early
Some coaches who are lucky enough to land a head coaching gig at a young age are hot shots who are ready to make that job a steppingstone for something bigger and better. Brian Wujcik, however, was not like that. He grew up playing baseball at Richards and was an offensive star at the University of Iowa, and when he was named Richards’ head baseball coach for the 1992-93 season, he wasn’t looking to leave. There was a guy at the Oak Lawn school — football coach Gary Korhonen — that Wujcik looked up to. “Twenty five years go by in a hurry,” Wujcik said. “One of the
blessings that I’ve had is to have an opportunity to work in the same building as Gary Korhonen. He was a coach here Palos Park for (35) years resident (and won 315 and St. Rita games — baseball coach sixth highest to have field in the state) so named after I got a chance him: Page 3. to witness the longevity, the stability and the dedication to a program. That was a big inspiration. I tried to emulate his program and run the baseball program the same way.’’ Wujcik picked up his 500th career victory on May 2 in thrilling fashion as the Bulldogs
Photo by Jeff Vorva
From left to right, Parker Gass, Sean Murphy and Dan DeMars were on the second Marist boat that finished third in sectional play and will compete at the IHSA state meet in bass fishing.
teams to weigh in. They had the lead for a while until Downers Grove South knocked them to second with a haul of 5 pounds and 8 ounces. A few teams later, Providence Catholic brought in four fish totaling 8 pounds and 3 ounces to blow everyone else out of the water, so to speak, and capture the sectional title. Marist moved down to third place and finished ahead of Hinsdale South (3 pounds, 8.3 ounces) for the final state bid. “It was a whole lot of teamwork — we had a fun day and had a blast,” Murphy said. “I wasn’t worried that the sectional would be postponed. It was windy, but it wasn’t that bad. We were past the power plant and came up with a couple of good catches.’’ First-year RedHawks coach James
O’Neil said he helped start the program when he was a sophomore at the Mt. Greenwood school in 2009. Marist qualified for state in 2011 — when O’Neil was a senior — and 2012. “I’m happy for them,” the coach said. “I gave Sean a pep talk. He was bummed that he wasn’t on my boat for the first time in three years and I thought it would be good for him to learn from someone else. He caught a couple of fish. It was a tough day. Aside from the wind, we’ve had so much rain the past couple of days. It was a little choppy for an hour but it calmed down.’’ Brother Rice, St. Laurence, Oak Lawn, Sandburg and Stagg also had two boats at the sectional but could not qualify for state. Last year, St. Laurence qualified two boats to state.
The long streak is saved, thanks to Mia Ko. There are just four schools in the area that currently have badminton teams — Sandburg, Oak Lawn, Shepard and Stagg. But year after year, there usually are no problems sending players to the Illinois High School Association state finals. This year was different. With no reSTATEMENT turning state GAMES qualifiers from 2016, the area was going to have to rely on some new faces taking over for their teams. It turns out Ko, a senior at Sandburg, was the lone state qualifier as she took third place at the T.F. South Sectional on Thursday. Seeds and opponents for the state tournament were not released as of this paper’s deadline, but the finals are Friday and Saturday at Eastern Illinois University in Charleston. According to the IHSA record book, the area has had state representation for at least 21 straight years, starting with the 1996-97 season. The state tournament started in 1976 but specific records
Consumer Loans Made Easy United Trust Bank offers a wide variety of consumer loans to fit your needs!
Please contact one of our Loan Officers to discuss any of the following consumer products: • New and Used Car/Truck Loans • Certificate of Deposit Loans • Home Equity Loans Contact John Hyland, President; Kenneth Shapiro; or Robert Hoholik today! 12330 S. Harlem Ave., Palos Heights, IL 60463 • (708) 728-9900 • Fax (708) 728-9270 • UTBHome.com
Supplied photo
Sandburg senior Mia Ko is the lone area state qualifier for badminton after taking third at the T.F. South Sectional on Thursday
on who qualified from 1976 through 1996 are not available. Sandburg also has qualified at least one badminton athlete to state for at least 21 years. Ko made sure that happened. She opened sectional play with a 21-13, 21-16 victory over Morton’s Daniela Ortega. But she fell in the second round to York’s Linnea Dierksheide, 21-7, 21-12. See KO, Page 3
2
Section 2 Thursday, May 11, 2017
The Regional News - The Reporter
FOCUS ON THE WINDY CITY THUNDERBOLTS
TIM CRONIN The Locker Room
Chigas and Wood ready for big seasons By Jeff Vorva Sports Editor
There comes a time during the offseason when independent league baseball players must make a decision. Do they want to come back for a year? Or do they want to hang up the glove and spikes and enter the real world? For two area players who were on the Windy City Thunderbolt roster, the decision was WINDY easy. Bridgeview CITY’S resident and Oak High School LAST 10 Lawn graduate Chris ChiYEARS gas and Orland Park resident and St. 2007: 68-28 Laurence grad Kyle 2008: 60-36 Wood were coming 2009: 56-40 back. They worked 2010: 56-38 hard during the off2011: 48-48 season to try to make 2012: 54-42 2017 a special year 2013: 50-46 for themselves and 2014: 35-60 for a team that hasn’t 2015: 41-55 had a winning sea2016: 42-53 son since 2013. “I knew I was coming back and knew what I had to work on,” said Chigas, a left-handed pitcher. “I learned that hitters here will swing at the fastball. Hitters are patient. There is a tighter zone, this being pro ball. “I think they are a little aggressive on the breaking ball, so I have to take advantage of that. Falling behind is a lot worse in this league and hitters will take advantage of that. I have to get ahead of the hitters and trust my stuff.’’ Chigas, 24, worked on his game while helping run the Bridgeviewbased For the Love of the Game Baseball Academy at 10004 South 76th Ave. Last year, he pitched mostly out of the bullpen and was 1-2 with a save and a 4.47 ERA and in his final six appearances, he
Thompson watch will be on at Olympia Fields
A
Photos by Jeff Vorva
Former Oak Lawn High School hurler Chris Chigas (left) delivers during a spring training game for Windy City. Former St. Laurence and Purdue star Kyle Wood hits the ball in a game last year — his first with the Thunderbolts.
tossed 8 2/3 innings of shutout ball. “I was a starter my whole life but I like the fact that I could show up and get into a game,’’ Chigas said. “As a starter, you might travel on the road for three games and not even play. I like knowing I could get into a game. “(Manager Ron Biga) crossed me off for a game last year and I asked him why. He said I threw two days in a row. I said, ‘Don’t cross me off — I want to think that I’m going to play.’ I pitched in the seventh inning that game. And I did well. A 1-2-3 inning.’’ While the T-Bolts were opening the Frontier League season last May, Wood was finishing a successful career at Purdue, where he belted 12 homers and drove in 37 runs. The left-handed hitter joined the
team in mid-June and hit .246 with three homers and 23 RBI in 45 games. He was named the team’s Player of the Week for Aug. 23-28 after hitting .375 with seven RBI. Wood, also 24, said coming back to pro ball was a “no-brainer.’’ His offseason was spent coaching, substitute teaching and working out at his alma-mater, St. Laurence. The Vikings have one of the best baseball teams in the state and nation and Wood is working with their hitters when he is not practicing or playing with the T-Bolts. He is hoping that a big finish to 2016 will continue this year. “I felt like I figured it out at the end of the year and I finished strong,” he said. “Teams pitched me different. In college you have a pretty good
idea on how they are going to pitch you. I could catch on and make an adjustment and the pitchers would change and I would have to make an adjustment again. It was a learning curve but I feel pretty good going into this year.’’
Coming up The T-Bolts open the 2017 season at 7:05 p.m. Friday against the Washington Wild Things at Standard Bank Stadium in Crestwood. On Saturday, they host Washington at 6:05 p.m. for the first fireworks night of the season. They wrap up the series at 2:05 p.m. Sunday. The team hosts Schaumburg for three 10:35 a.m. games Tuesday through May 18 before hitting the road for the first time.
CHICAGO FIRE ANALYSIS
Basti says winless streak is ‘a little bit sad’ By Jeff Vorva Sports Editor
So, the Chicago Fire was out in Los Angeles, playing a team that has problems winning. The Fire had a nice 2-0 lead at halftime over the hapless Galaxy, which also lost two starters to injuries in the first half. Fire coach Veljko Paunovic looked like a genius starting Matt Lampson in goal for Jorge Bava and inserting Drew Connor at right back. All seemed well in the world. Then the two teams had to play the second half. The Galaxy scored a pair of second-half goals and pulled off a 2-2 tie at the StubHub Center in Carson, Cal. And the Fire is 3-3-3 overall and 0-3-2 on the road this year and in its last 47 Major League Soccer matches away from Toyota Park, it has mustered a 1-35-11 mark. It’s been said here before and it will be said again: If this team is to make any real noise in the league, it has to win on the road. This tie was hard to swallow not only for fans, but the Fire players and coaches aren’t too thrilled about it either as they finished a three-game road trip 0-2-1. “We have to show up for 90 minutes. Not 45,” Fire star Bastian Schweinsteiger said. “We have to improve. It’s a point. Actually in New York (a 2-1 loss to the Red Bulls on April 29) we could won the match as well. We should’ve won this match. It’s a little bit sad. We just had one point instead of six points.” “For us, it feels like a loss,” Paunovic said. “We believe that the first half was great. We also think that the injuries that happened actually helped them, because it stopped our
SEATTLE SOUNDERS AT CHICAGO FIRE WHEN: 8 p.m., Saturday WHERE: Toyota Park, Bridgeview FIRE’S RECORD: 3-3-3 SOUNDERS’ RECORD: 2-3-4 NOTEWORTHY: The Sounders are the defending MLS champions and have struggled. Their last win was a 3-0 road victory over Los Angeles — a team the Fire tied on Saturday night.
pace and our rhythm of the game that we boasted from the start. And from that moment at the start of the second substitution, we lost and we couldn’t find the rhythm again. “In the second half, I think we came a little too casual, in one of our strengths, which is our defensive set pieces. We conceded two goals too easily. Too easy. And very, very similar. No reaction is something that concerns me, but on the other side, I think after the Galaxy’s goals the team reacted and we had good opportunities to score. Overall, I think a tie is….for both teams you get something, but for us we are not happy because we could have won this game.” David Accam and Nemanja Nikolic scored within three minutes apart to open the scoring. LA’s Daniel Steres and Giovani dos Santos scored within nine minutes of each other in the second half with Romain Alessandrini getting both assists for the 2-5-2 Galaxy. One silver lining is that the Fire sits in sixth place alone in the Eastern Conference heading into this week. It has a one-point edge over Atlanta and D.C. United. The top six teams in each division make it to the playoffs.
Photo by Jeff Vorva
Bastian Schweinsteiger said the Fire should have had six points instead of one the past two weeks.
RED STARS 2, HOUSTON DASH 0
Red Stars pick up revenge with shutout of the Dash By Alison Moran Correspondent
The Chicago Red Stars returned to Toyota Park with a vengeance on Saturday, killing two annoying birds with one stone. They shut down the Houston Dash 2-0 and returned to third place in the National Women’s Soccer League with six points. Coming off a 1-0 shutout at Portland on April 30, the Red Stars wanted to continue their recent home success since returning to Toyota Park in 2016. They are 7-1-4 the past two seasons, with the only blemish coming against Kansas City last season. Perhaps inspired by the Red Stars’ special guest, USWNT and Women’s World Cup star Julie Foudy, who was at Toyota Park to promote a new book, this Lifetime Game of the Week had elements of drama, embarrassment for the visiting team and a satisfying ending for the an-
BOSTON BREAKERS AT CHICAGO RED STARS WHEN: 5 p.m., Sunday WHERE: Toyota Park, Bridgeview RED STARS RECORD: 2-2-0 BREAKERS RECORD: 2-2-0 NOTEWORTHY: The Breakers had a two-game win streak snapped when they lost to NWSL-leading North Carolina, 1-0, on Saturday.
nounced crowd of 2,114. Perhaps the inspiration was revenge for a season-opening 2-0 road shutout at the hands of the Houston to open the season. The Red Stars earned a first-half goal as midfielder Danielle Colaprico set up a free kick just outside the 18-yard box. The ball was driven into the box and hit off Houston’s Sarah Hagen for an
own-goal. “It was definitely lucky,” said Colaprico, who celebrated her 24th birthday May 6th. “But we’ve had our chances to create shots for ourselves.” In the second half, the attacks intensified. Captain Christen Press, still seeking her first goal of the season, released two shots, one swerving just wide. The other fell into the hands of goalkeeper Lydia Williams. The Red Stars’ second goal came in the 61st minute as Julie Ertz scored her second goal of the season. The ball fell to Ertz’s feet amid chaos near the box. Ertz struck from close range on frame for the score. “It’s great to get the shutout,” said Ertz. “I’ve played the six position before, and if it helps the team, I’ll keep on playing it.” Will Ertz stay at midfield? In his postgame comments coach Rory Dames said she would “if it made sense.’’
ll eyes will be on the best female golfers in the world when the Women’s PGA Championship, the second major championship of the season for the ladies, decamps at Olympia Fields Country Club on the last weekend of June. Many eyes will be watching Lexi Thompson, one of the LPGA Tour’s stars, very closely. Thompson, a 22-year-old Floridian, managed to replace her ball incorrectly during the ANA Inspiration, the first major of the year, on the 17th green in the third round. The mistake, putting the ball back down next to where it had been marked, wasn’t detected until a viewer contacted LPGA officials. Thompson, in the latter stages of the final round, was slapped with a four-stroke penalty, two for playing from the wrong place — about a half-inch, Thompson but golf’s rules are tough that way — and two more for signing an incorrect thirdround scorecard. (In that respect, she was lucky. Until a recent rule change, she would have been disqualified for that.) There was a huge stink raised by those who thought the penalty was unfair, or that a viewer reporting it the next day was unfair. To the latter point, all that is known is that officials at the course in Rancho Mirage, Calif., acted promptly when notified. We don’t know how long it took for the e-mail or text to get to the right people. To the former, the LPGA went right by the book — or books, those being the Rules of Golf and the Decisions book issued by the United States Golf Association and the R&A. Thompson got it wrong and the refs got it right. To her credit, Thompson, having the lead ripped away from her in a quest to win the tournament for a second time, rallied on the final holes to force a playoff with So-yeon Ryu, which Ryu won on the first sudden-death hole. There the story might have ended, except this was one of a series of rules violations called or texted in by viewers over the last year, and the USGA and R&A decided to act. A new guideline – Decision 34-3/10, for the lawyers out there — was issued, giving officials the right to ignore video evidence that people nearby, including the player and others in his group, would have been unlikely to see with their own eyes, and that a player’s “reasonable judgment” should supersede the HD close-ups available today. “So long as the player does what can reasonably be expected under the circumstances to make an accurate determination, the player’s reasonable judgment will be accepted even if later shown to be wrong by the use of video evidence,” the Decision reads. There the story really should end, but for Thompson, it may not. Two more examples of replacing her ball incorrectly in recent play have surfaced. There was a ball replaced to the left of where it had been on the 16th hole of the final round of the LPGA tournament in Thailand a few weeks before the ANA. Additionally, on the seventh hole of the third round of the ANA, 10 holes before the one the viewer caught, Thompson moved her ball a bit forward after marking it after a 50-footer lipped out. In all three cases, Thompson was looking at a putt of no more than a foot. In a friendly game with your pals, you’re giving those putts. She was marking the ball, and then placing it incorrectly. There could be no advantage gained on such a short putt on perfect greens with no spike marks or other imperfections. What was she thinking? “I have seen the video, and I can see where they’re coming from with it,” Thompson said of the ANA ruling. “It might have been, I guess, me rotating the ball, but like I said, I’ve always played by the Rules of Golf. Growing up with two older brothers, they were always on me for playing by the Rules of Golf. “There’s no need for me to improve anything. Those greens were absolutely perfect, and the whole week there was nothing in my line to be moving it from anything. So, I have no reason behind it. I did not mean it at all.” That was said before the second ANA video and the Thailand video surfaced. Thompson will likely have more questions to answer before she tees off at Olympia Fields. And then she’ll reach the first green, and everyone will be watching closely.
The Bucket Flagg Creek, the lively nine-hole course in Countryside, is starting a Thursday night ladies league called Chicks with Sticks, beginning May 18 and continuing through Sept. 14. Nonresident cost for the season is $224, and includes eight prepaid rounds. For information, see www. flaggcreekgolfcourse.org or call (708) 246-3336. ... The Linksters junior league at Palos Hills, open to players 9 to 15, begins June 11 and runs for six weeks. The fee is $80. For information, see www.paloshillsweb.org/cityofpaloshills/ golf/tournaments/ or call 708-599-0202. ... If you like the drive south, Cardinal Creek in Beecher has reopened under new ownership. Have golf news? E-mail us at illinoisgolfer@ earthlink.net with the details. Tim Cronin’s golf columns appear every second Thursday of the month.
The Regional News - The Reporter
Thursday, May 11, 2017 Section 2
Palos Park’s Zunica to have field named for him By Jeff Vorva Sports Editor
Mike Zunica loves improving and maintaining the St. Rita Baseball Field. “Mike is on a first-name basis with every blade of grass on the field,” said Fr. Paul Galetto, the head of the school. And starting next year, that same field will have a first- and last-name relationship with Zunica. The retiring Mustangs’ baseball coach and Palos Park resident will have the field named after him, it was announced at a ceremony honoring him Saturday on the infield of the baseball field at the Chicago school. What was scheduled to be a 15-minute ceremony in front of hundreds of people before an 11 a.m. game against Loyola Academy turned into a 55-minute tribute, and the game started after noon. It could have gone on longer with all the well-wishers who were gushing about Zunica, who was installed as the school’s president in August and wanted one more year to coach the Mustangs. In addition to having his name attached to the field, Zunica was presented with a rocking chair and his number — 13 — was retired. And if that wasn’t enough, catcher Jake Zylman hit a first-inning grand slam in St. Rita’s 12-5 Catholic League Blue victory over the Ramblers. Zylman told Zunica that homer was for him. Zunica was quoted in a daily newspaper that he wasn’t going to cry during this day, but that went out the window after he heard about the name change of the field and after Zylman’s homer. His future replacement as coach, John Nee, told the crowd that Zunica didn’t even want an event like this to take place. But once Zunica took the microphone, he had a hard time keeping his comments brief as he thanked a whole host of people and was thankful that the sport could let him meet so many different people. “This is a great game. I used to tell people that my wife (Jacqueline) said that I loved baseball more than her, but my comeback was always, ‘Yeah, but I love you more than hockey, basketball and football,’ ’’ Zunica joked. “But what this game has done for me and so many others… it’s a special game and it brought so many special people into my life. “I don’t know how put it into words. It’s
Evergreen Park High School enjoyed one of its best boys basketball seasons in school history with an 18-10 record, and the Mustangs won their first conference championship since 1994. Two key members of that squad — 6-foot-10 center Michael Drynan and swingman Kyree Hannah — will stay in the area as they both announced they will attend Moraine Valley Community College. Moraine finished 17-15 and suffered a heartbreaking 63-61 postseason defeat to national power South Suburban College in the National Junior College Athletic Association Region IV semifinals in coach Anthony Amarino’s first year at the helm. Drynan’s sister, Erin, completed a successful two-year career and led the nation among NJCAA Division II players 169 blocks and averaged 15.5 rebounds per game.
St. Xavier University Baseball: Last year, the Cougars were the surprise of the conference as they won the Chicagoland Collegiate Athletic Conference tournament as the fourth-seed. This year, they picked up the fifth seed and opened the CCAC tourney with a 13-2 victory over No. 4 Purdue University Northwest on Friday and added a 13-7 victory over eighth-seeded Indiana University-South Bend on Saturday at Judson College in Elgin. Matt Monahan was 4 for 4 and drove in five runs in the second game. But they ran into trouble on Monday as they dropped a 6-1 decision to third-seeded St. Ambrose. Ryan Pellack had three
Ko
Continued from Page 1 In the important consolation round, which meant the difference between a final-four appearance (guaranteeing a state bid) and elimination, she faced Ortega again and won 21-12, 2111. She finished on a winning note, beating Laura Hyink of York 18-21, 21-15, 21-18. York won the sectional with
Chicago Christian’s streak turns 30 as Knights earn top seed Sports Editor
Photos by Jeff Vorva
St. Rita baseball coach Mike Zunica claimed he wouldn’t cry during a ceremony in his honor on Saturday, but that changed when he found out the St. Rita field would be re-named in his honor.
changed so many people’s lives and taught them lessons about how to deal with adversity and failure and being a good teammate. I have 36 kids out there this year and I hope they all learn something that will make them better fathers, sons, employees, people and members of the community.’’ After Saturday’s win, Zunica, who coached at Argo one year and St. Rita for 21 more, has 612 wins and three summer league state titles, three Illinois High School Association Class 4A secondplace finishes, five supersectional titles, five sectional title and 15 regional titles to go with five Chicago Catholic League Blue crowns. “Mike has coached former Mustangs who have become Mariners, Rangers, A custom-made rocking chair was presented Yankees, Cubs, Fighting Irish, Michigan to Mike Zunica on Saturday morning during a state Spartans, Wildcats and of course, ceremony in the retiring coach’s honor. Kansas Jayhawks,’’ St. Rita Principal Brendan Conroy said. “But more impor“He’s made a tremendous difference in tantly, he has coached boys into men. He the lives of all of his players off the field can take a scrawny freshman full of raw as well as on it,” former St. Rita president talent and make ballplayers out of them.’’ Ernest Mrozek added.
Evergreen Park duo headed to Moraine Sports Editor
AREA POSTSEASON SEEDS PLANTED
By Jeff Vorva
FOCUS ON AREA COLLEGES
By Jeff Vorva
3
hits and scored the lone run on a sacrifice fly from Matt Bunetta. The loss snapped a five-game winning streak. That put St. Ambrose into the championship game, which was scheduled for Tuesday night. St. Xavier (27-28 after Monday’s loss) was scheduled to play one more game in the losers’ bracket against the seventh-seeded University of St. Francis on Tuesday afternoon for the right to face St. Ambrose again for the title. If another game was needed in this double-elimination tournament, it was scheduled for Wednesday. Junior Tyler Hebel was named All-CCAC first team and Monahan made the second team and was named the league’s Freshman of the Year. Ben Zordani and former Marist standout Matthew McKenzie were named to the Gold Glove Team. Softball: The Cougars, who finished second in the nation in NAIA Division II play last year, ended its season with two losses in the first two rounds of the CCAC Tournament and finished 22-26. Freshman Amanda Ruskowski was named All-CCAC first team while seniors Savannah Kinsella and Brittany Plimmer were named to the second team.
Trinity Christian College Women’s track: The Trolls finished fifth in the CCAC Championships in Joliet and Celina Wanta took second in the 400 meter hurdles with a time of 1 minute, 07.83 seconds. Molly Toepper took third in the javelin with a 113-10 and Ashley Jourdan was third in the 1500 with a 4:44.15. Softball: TCC went scoreless and lost a pair of games in the CCAC Tournament on Thursday, finishing the season 18-22.
15 points, followed by Thornton Fractional South with 14. Sandburg took third with seven points and Shepard finished fifth with 2.5. At Downers Grove North, Stagg finished fifth and did not have any athletes qualify. At Hinsdale Central, Oak Lawn was fourth and did not qualify anyone to state for the second year in a row after going five straight years of qualifying at least one athlete to state.
The Illinois High School Association released it postseason seeding for several spring sports and, to no one’s surprise, Chicago Christian’s baseball team earned the top sub-sectional seed at the Class 2A Wilmington Sectional. The Knights are 30-0 after beating Oak Lawn on Saturday and will host either 10th-seeded Corliss or ninth-seeded Momence Wednesday in regional action. If they advance, the Knights will face either fourth-seeded Beecher or sixth-seeded Peotone on May 20 for the regional championship. Chicago Christian has won six straight regional crowns including last year, when the Knights were bumped up to Class 3A. Class 3A and 4A seeds were announced after this paper’s deadline.
Softball Chicago Christian drew the third seed in the sub-sectional of the Class 2A Sectional behind top-seed Seneca and secondseeded Beecher. Class 3A and 4A seedings were announced after this paper’s deadline.
Boys volleyball Brother Rice, Marist and Sandburg are the top three seeds respectively in the Reavis Sectional while Stagg is fifth, Oak Lawn seventh, Richards eighth, Shepard ninth and St. Laurence 15th. Sandburg finished fourth in the state in 2015 and third last year.
Boys water polo
Photo by Jeff Vorva
Tyler Edgar and his Chicago Christian teammates have 30 wins and a No. 1 postseason seed.
Postseason action opened on Tuesday. Sandburg drew the second seed in the Lincoln-Way Central Sectional while Stagg was sixth and Shepard 10th. LincolnWay East drew the top seed. At Lyons, Brother Rice was seeded second behind the hosts.
Girls water polo Postseason action opened on Tuesday. Mother McAuley, which finished fourth in the state last year, drew the top seed at the Lyons Sectional. Sandburg is third in the Lincoln-Way Central Sectional behind the hosts and Lincoln-Way East. Richards is seeded seventh and Stagg 10th.
Wujcik
Continued from Page 1 beat Shepard 7-6 in a South Suburban Red contest in Oak Lawn. Down 6-5 in the bottom of the seventh, Nike Gall hit a two-run single to drive in the tying and winning runs. In 1986, Wujcik and Reavis star Mike Budds were named the first Regional-Reporter co-Players of the Year. When Wujcik went to Iowa, he set a school and Big Ten record when he drove in 10 runs in one game. He also set a school record with 12 doubles in a season and won a league batting title. But playing the sport and coaching it are two different things, as he found out in his rookie season as the boss. “I had no idea what I was
Supplied photo
Richards players and coached celebrated coach Brian Wujcik’s 500th career victory in Oak Lawn on May 2.
doing,” he said. “My idea of practice was putting on a glove and showing the kids that I could still play. It took me a little while to realize that what I needed to do was teach them instead of going out to play with them.’’
The coach’s 500th win was memorable with the walk-off hit and celebration. He doesn’t remember much about the very first win. “It took five games and it was against Bloom,” he said. “I don’t know any of the details.’’
His players joked about his gunning for 1,000 victories, but he is not sure that’s in the cards. “I know Jack Kaiser at Oak Park River Forest coached for (more than) 45 years,” he said. “I don’t know if I have that in me.’’
Get The BEST GUN PRICES In Illinois! Don’t Pay “Crook” County Taxes of $25 per gun and 5¢ per bullet?
S H OP
AlmostWholesaleGuns.com WE NOW OFFER GUNSMITHING!
Install Sights • Gun Repair • Cleaning Cerakote Coatings any color you want Fast 1 Week or Less Turnaround • Done On Site
NEED CASH? We Buy, Sell, Trade & Transfer Guns
AR-15 s IN STOCK! 7545 S. Madison St., Burr Ridge, IL 60527
Enter through front main entrance Just a few minutes from I-294 & I-55 or Rt. 53 & I-55
Glock G17
Springfield X
Ruger LC380
630-863-1379
sales@almostwholesaleguns.com
Hours: Mon. 9-6; Tues. 9-8; Wed. Closed; Thurs. 9-8; Fri. 9-8; Sat. & Sun. 9-3
4
Section 2 Thursday, May 11, 2017
The Regional News - The Reporter
A look at the 10th Southwest Half Marathon and 10K in words and pictures By Jeff Vorva Sports Editor
Photo by Jeff Vorva
Delilah DiCrescenzo won the women’s portion of the 10th Southwest Half Marathon on Sunday in Palos Heights.
Delilah is No. 1 on the charts at SW Half Marathon
Chicago Ridge’s Roberto Ortega became the first runner in event history to win backto-back titles as he claimed his second 10K title at the 10th Southwest Half Marathon event Sunday in Palos Heights. The 34-year-old Ortega ran the course in 38 minutes and 53 seconds — 25 seconds slower than last year. But he has a few excuses. He is still feeling some aches and pains from running in the Boston Marathon in April. And his previous 24 hours were not something he recommends for preparing for a run. “I worked 16 hours (Saturday) and got no sleep,” he said, referring to his job as a bartender at the Doubletree Hotel in Alsip.
“Maybe I got an hour and a half of sleep at the most.’’ Ortega may not earn a three-peat in 2018 as he is mulling running the half marathon next year. In 2015, he competed in the big race and placed 33rd. In the women’s 10K, Sugar Grove’s Kim Weiss, 38, won with a time of :39.45 in her first Southwest competition. “I had no idea I would win,’’ Weiss said. “But at 38, I feel blessed to be out there running.’’ She said that when she was a high school runner at West Aurora, she went to state four times in track and once in cross country. She competed at Western Michigan and trained for marathons, running a personal best 2 hours, 48 minutes at the Chicago Marathon.
After having three kids, she is back into running. She said that breaking three hours in a marathon in Indianapolis two years ago was a highlight. The finish to Sunday’s half marathon was interesting, as Arturs Bareikas and Janis Pastars were matching each other stridefor-stride and both slowed up and joined hands and crossed the line in 1 hour, 12 minutes and .08 seconds. Bareikas, 26, was declared the winner via chip timing. Both live in Crestwood and are from Latvia. They both run for the Orland Park-based Tri Right team. The half marathon winner was Chicago’s Delilah DiCrescenzo, who won in 1:21.31. DiCrescenzo, 34, is a former Queen of Peace star who was an elite steeplechase and cross country runner.
D
elilah DiCrescenzo was a world-class runner and steeplechase athlete. The former Queen of Peace student has competed all over the world and was close to becoming an Olympian. But no matter what she accomplishes in athletics, she will forever be linked with the Plain White T’s megahit “Hey There Delilah,’’ which was released in 2006 but became a No. 1 hit on the Billboard charts in 2007. It was also No. 1, 2 or 3 in Australia, Austria, Belgium, Canada, the Czech Republic, Germany, Ireland and the United Kingdom. The 34-year-old has been out of the limelight for her competitive running since 2014, but on Sunday she competed in the 10th running of the Southwest Half Marathon in Palos Heights and JEFF VORVA won the race in 1 hour, 38 minutes and 52 secMaking the onds. the half marathon, the song is 10 years old Extra Point as Like well and it’s still making an impact. Recently it was heard on the TV shows “Orange is the New Black” and “Family Guy.’’ A Time magazine critic said the song was “an intimate love song that’s damn near universal.’’ And, yes, she was the Delilah the song was written for after Plain White T’s frontman Tom Higgenson met her when she was at Columbia University. The two never became a couple but there were some close moments while they were in and out of their own relationships. So Higgenson wrote the song about her and it became a No. 1 hit and she was his guest the next year at the Grammy Awards. The song was nominated but did not win (losing to the late Amy Winehouse’s “Rehab’’). “Truth be told, it’s probably a good thing it never worked out with us,” Higgenson told InStyle.com in 2015. But it led to an iconic song, and as far as DiCrescenzo is concerned, it never gets old being linked with the tune, even though I was probably the millionth person to ask her about it. “It doesn’t get old because it’s amazing that it’s still popular with a lot of people,” she said. “I’m happy to be associated with it. I’m happy for the band because it is still doing really well. All in all, it’s great.’’ DiCrescenzo, who lives in the Garfield Ridge neighborhood of Chicago and has family in Orland Park, said she made her Southwest Half Marathon debut because she has shopped at Palos Heights’ Running For Kicks store (owned by race co-founder Mel Diab) for years, starting back when she was in high school. “This gave me an excuse to get back into shape, so that’s what I’ve been trying to do for the last eight weeks,” she said. “It was a longer race than I’ve been training for but I was happy because the course is actually pretty forgiving. It’s flat. It was a nice day. I want to come back next year.’’ DiCrescenzo is now leading a normal life as she works for Gatorade in Chicago and works with college and high school teams. “I needed a break — body-wise, mentally and emotionally,” she said. “Now I feel recharged and ready to train again. I enjoy being normal. The teens and first part of my adult life was running and being singularly devoted to that. It’s nice to feel more well-rounded. I can pursue my career and have running be more in the background than in the forefront.’’ Like many Queen on Peace alums, DiCrescenzo did not like hearing the news in January that her former high school was closing. “I was really bummed,” she said. “That’s where I started running and I still have a lot of lifelong friends from there. It kind of feels like the end of an era. I’m just so happy that St. Laurence (the school next door to Queen of Peace in Burbank) decided to go coed, because it’s keeping that spirit alive. “It’s a bummer, but they are making the best of it. At the end of the day, it’s a building and it won’t stop the memories that we have and the relationships we created.’’
Above: The 10th Southwest Half Marathon got off to a big start on Sunday in Palos Heights. Left: Arturs Bareikas (far left) and Janis Pastars cross the finish line during the 10th Southwest Marathon on Sunday. Bareikas was declared the winner by chip time.
Photos by Jeff Vorva
Kim Weiss of Sugar Grove won the women’s 10K race. South Holland’s Phil Arvia and a group of runners stretch before Sunday’s race.
Above left: For the second year in a row, Oak Lawn’s Bob Chesna completes the Walk, Run or Roll event with his family by his side. Chesna suffered a stroke in August, 2015 and was told he might not walk again. Above: Eleven-year-old Seth Mendoza (left, wearing No. 1296) gets an early step up on eventual 10K winner Roberto Ortega of Chicago Ridge on Sunday. Left: Dozens of volunteers stuffed goody bags for the runners on Wednesday at Shepard High School.
The Regional News - The Reporter
448-6161
5
Thursday, May 11, 2017 Section 2
For Sale
For Sale
IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF COOK COUNTY, ILLINOIS COUNTY DEPARTMENT - CHANCERY DIVISION THE BANK OF NEW YORK MELLON FKA THE BANK OF NEW YORK, AS TRUSTEE FOR THE CERTIFICATEHOLDERS OF THE CWABS, INC., ASSET-BACKED CERTIFICATES, SERIES 2007-8 Plaintiff, -v.JOHN KAIM A/K/A JOHN A. KAIM, FIRSTSECURE BANK AND TRUST CO., TRUST #1-138 DTD 3/26/96, UNKNOWN OWNERS AND NON-RECORD CLAIMANTS, UNKNOWN BENEFICIARIES OF FIRSTSECURE BANK AND TRUST CO., TRUST #1-138 DTD 3/26/96 Defendants 14 CH 13588 10749 SOUTH CHRISTA COURT 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 January 10, 2017, an agent for The Judicial Sales Corporation, will at 10:30 AM on May 30, 2017, at The Judicial Sales Corporation, One South Wacker Drive - 24th Floor, CHICAGO, IL, 60606, sell at public auction to the highest bidder, as set forth below, the following described real estate: Commonly known as 10749 SOUTH CHRISTA COURT, PALOS HILLS, IL 60465 Property Index No. 23-14-400-076-0000. The real estate is improved with a white, brick, single family, two car attached garage. Sale terms: 25% down of the highest bid by certified funds at the close of the sale payable to The Judicial Sales Corporation. No third party checks will be accepted. The balance in certified funds/or wire transfer, is due within twenty-four (24) hours. No fee shall be paid by the mortgagee acquiring the residential real estate pursuant to its credit bid at the sale or by any mortgagee, judgment creditor, or other lienor acquiring the residential real estate whose rights in and to the residential real estate arose prior to the sale. The subject property is subject to general real estate taxes, special assessments, or special taxes levied against said real estate and is offered for sale without any representation as to quality or quantity of title and without recourse to Plaintiff and in \�AS IS\� condition. The sale is further subject to confirmation by the court. Upon payment in full of the amount bid, the purchaser will receive a Certificate of Sale that will entitle the purchaser to a deed to the real estate after confirmation of the sale. The property will NOT be open for inspection and plaintiff makes no representation as to the condition of the property. Prospective bidders are admonished to check the court file to verify all information. If this property is a condominium unit, the purchaser of the unit at the foreclosure sale, other than a mortgagee, shall pay the assessments and the legal fees required by The Condominium Property Act, 765 ILCS 605/9(g)(1) and (g)(4). If this property is a condominium unit which is part of a common interest community, the purchaser of the unit at the foreclosure sale other than a mortgagee shall pay the assessments required by The Condominium Property Act, 765 ILCS 605/18.5 (g-1). IF YOU ARE THE MORTGAGOR (HOMEOWNER), YOU HAVE THE RIGHT TO REMAIN IN POSSESSION FOR 30 DAYS AFTER ENTRY OF AN ORDER OF POSSESSION, IN ACCORDANCE WITH SECTION 15-1701(C) OF THE ILLINOIS MORTGAGE FORECLOSURE LAW. You will need a photo identification issued by a government agency (driver’s license, passport, etc.) in order to gain entry into our building and the foreclosure sale room in Cook County and the same identification for sales held at other county venues where The Judicial Sales Corporation conducts foreclosure sales. For information: Visit our website at service. atty-pierce.com. between the hours of 3 and 5 pm. McCalla Raymer Pierce, LLC, Plaintiff’s Attorneys, One North Dearborn Street Suite 1300, CHICAGO, IL 60602. Tel No. (312) 476-5500. Please refer to file number 8564. 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. I720010
IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF COOK COUNTY, ILLINOIS COUNTY DEPARTMENT - CHANCERY DIVISION WELLS FARGO BANK, N.A. Plaintiff, -v.INGA WIKAR A/K/A INGA GRIGAITE, TIMBERS IN PALOS CONDOMINIUM ASSOCIATION, RICHARD WIKAR A/K/A RICHARD WICKAR Defendants 15 CH 09191 8245 POPLAR LANE APT D PALOS HILLS, IL 60465 NOTICE OF SALE PUBLIC NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale entered in the above cause on November 29, 2016, an agent for The Judicial Sales Corporation, will at 10:30 AM on May 30, 2017, at The Judicial Sales Corporation, One South Wacker Drive - 24th Floor, CHICAGO, IL, 60606, sell at public auction to the highest bidder, as set forth below, the following described real estate: Commonly known as 8245 POPLAR LANE APT D, PALOS HILLS, IL 60465 Property Index No. 23-23-200-021-1244. The real estate is improved with a red brick, condo, attached one car garage. Sale terms: 25% down of the highest bid by certified funds at the close of the sale payable to The Judicial Sales Corporation. No third party checks will be accepted. The balance in certified funds/or wire transfer, is due within twenty-four (24) hours. No fee shall be paid by the mortgagee acquiring the residential real estate pursuant to its credit bid at the sale or by any mortgagee, judgment creditor, or other lienor acquiring the residential real estate whose rights in and to the residential real estate arose prior to the sale. The subject property is subject to general real estate taxes, special assessments, or special taxes levied against said real estate and is offered for sale without any representation as to quality or quantity of title and without recourse to Plaintiff and in \�AS IS\� condition. The sale is further subject to confirmation by the court. Upon payment in full of the amount bid, the purchaser will receive a Certificate of Sale that will entitle the purchaser to a deed to the real estate after confirmation of the sale. The property will NOT be open for inspection and plaintiff makes no representation as to the condition of the property. Prospective bidders are admonished to check the court file to verify all information. If this property is a condominium unit, the purchaser of the unit at the foreclosure sale, other than a mortgagee, shall pay the assessments and the legal fees required by The Condominium Property Act, 765 ILCS 605/9(g)(1) and (g)(4). If this property is a condominium unit which is part of a common interest community, the purchaser of the unit at the foreclosure sale other than a mortgagee shall pay the assessments required by The Condominium Property Act, 765 ILCS 605/18.5 (g-1). IF YOU ARE THE MORTGAGOR (HOMEOWNER), YOU HAVE THE RIGHT TO REMAIN IN POSSESSION FOR 30 DAYS AFTER ENTRY OF AN ORDER OF POSSESSION, IN ACCORDANCE WITH SECTION 15-1701(C) OF THE ILLINOIS MORTGAGE FORECLOSURE LAW. You will need a photo identification issued by a government agency (driver’s license, passport, etc.) in order to gain entry into our building and the foreclosure sale room in Cook County and the same identification for sales held at other county venues where The Judicial Sales Corporation conducts foreclosure sales. For information: Visit our website at service. atty-pierce.com. between the hours of 3 and 5 pm. McCalla Raymer Pierce, LLC, Plaintiff’s Attorneys, One North Dearborn Street Suite 1300, CHICAGO, IL 60602. Tel No. (312) 476-5500. Please refer to file number 12186. 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. I720014
YOUR BUSINESS PICKS UP WHEN OUR READERS PICK UP OUR NEWSPAPER
Call to advertise!
For Sale IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF COOK COUNTY, ILLINOIS COUNTY DEPARTMENT - CHANCERY DIVISION FEDERAL NATIONAL MORTGAGE ASSOCIATION (FANNIE MAE); Plaintiff, vs. MILAN POPOVIC; DOBRILA POPOVIC AKA DOBRILLA POPOVIC; CAPITAL ONE BANK (USA), N.A.; CITIBANK (SOUTH DAKOTA), N.A.; HANMI BANK S/B/M UNITED CENTRAL BANK; LAS FUENTES CONDOMINIUM ASSOCIATION; UNKNOWN OWNERS AND NON RECORD CLAIMANTS; Defendants, 15 CH 15103 NOTICE OF SALE PUBLIC NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale entered in the above entitled cause Intercounty Judicial Sales Corporation will on Wednesday, June 14, 2017 at the hour of 11 a.m. in their office at 120 West Madison Street, Suite 718A, Chicago, Illinois, sell at public auction to the highest bidder for cash, as set forth below, the following described mortgaged real estate: P.I.N. 23-10-209-013-1090. Commonly known as 9086 Del Prado Drive, Unit 2E, Palos Hills, Illinois 60465. The mortgaged real estate is improved with a condominium residence. The purchaser of the unit other than a mortgagee shall pay the assessments and the legal fees required by subdivisions (g) (1) and (g)(4) of Section 9 of the Condominium Property Act Sale terms: 10% down by certified funds, balance, by certified funds, within 24 hours. No refunds. The property will NOT be open for inspection. For information call The Sales Department at Plaintiff’s Attorney, Anselmo Lindberg Oliver LLC, 1771 West Diehl Road, Naperville, Illinois 605631890. (630) 453-6960. For Bidding instructions visit www.alolawgroup.com 24 hours prior to sale. F15090223 INTERCOUNTY JUDICIAL SALES CORPORATION Selling Officer, (312) 444-1122 I720936
For Sale IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF COOK COUNTY, ILLINOIS COUNTY DEPARTMENT - CHANCERY DIVISION WELLS FARGO BANK, N.A. Plaintiff, vs. VALERIE L. BENNECKE-SLACK; EDWARD F. SLACK; STATE OF ILLINOIS Defendants, 17 CH 25 NOTICE OF SALE PUBLIC NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale entered in the above entitled cause Intercounty Judicial Sales Corporation will on Tuesday, May 30, 2017 at the hour of 11 a.m. in their office at 120 West Madison Street, Suite 718A, Chicago, Illinois, sell at public auction to the highest bidder for cash, as set forth below, the following described mortgaged real estate: P.I.N. 23-02-308-013-0000. Commonly known as 8525 West 91st Street, Hickory Hills, IL 60457. The mortgaged real estate is improved with a single family residence. If the subject mortgaged real estate is a unit of a common interest community, the purchaser of the unit other than a mortgagee shall pay the assessments required by subsection (g-1) of Section 18.5 of the Condominium Property Act. Sale terms: 10% down by certified funds, balance, by certified funds, within 24 hours. No refunds. The property will NOT be open for inspection For information call Sales Department at Plaintiff’s Attorney, Manley Deas Kochalski, LLC, One East Wacker Drive, Chicago, Illinois 60601. (614) 220-5611. 16-034428 F2 INTERCOUNTY JUDICIAL SALES CORPORATION Selling Officer, (312) 444-1122 I720252
POTENTIAL TO BECOME SPECTACULAR!
SEE THE BEAUTY OF SPRING AROUND PALOS PARK! California styleJoin ranch wooded uson with your bicycles on Sunday, May 21st .8+ acre across from Forest at 11:30 AM in our parking lot at 8100 W 119th St. Preserves awaits your talents! 4 Follow Doug Blount & Matt Nee on the bdrms, 3 baths, walkout 35x25 BLOUNT REALTOR’S CAL SAG BIKE bsmt w/office. Being sold “As Is� RIDE & RAFFLE to Sagawau $319,900
Raffle drawing & refreshments upon return.
708.448.6100
BHHSBlount.com Serving the Palos area for over 50 years
448-4000
Save this ad for a FREE Market Analysis!
34
A Palos resident since 1963
Your Palos Realtor
708-369-9327
“Follows Me Everywhere!� PUBLISHER’S NOTICE All Real Estate advertising in this newspaper is subject to the Fair Housing Act which makes it illegal to advertise “any preference, limitation or discrimination.� Familial status includes children under the age of 18 living with parents or legal custodians, pregnant women and people securing custody of children under 18. This newspaper will not knowingly accept any advertising for real estate which is in violation of the law. Our readers are 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.
DO YOU HAVE A HOUSE FOR SALE? Call to place your ad today!
For Sale
5 ACRES RT. 45 IN PEOTONE 600 ft. frontage x 400 ft. deep 40 ft. x 60 ft. pole barn CALL 815-450-0004
ÂŽ
“10 in the Park� NEW as of 7/7/11 For Rent
CONDO FOR RENT:
1 bdrm. condo in Midlothian includes heat, gas, water, scavenger, assigned parking space, laundry facility on premises $850/month + 1 mo. sec. dep. Call 773-326-8006.
6
Section 2 Thursday, May 11, 2017
448-6161
The Regional News - The Reporter
448-4000
Garage Sale
Garage Sale
For Rent
Asphalt Paving
Friday, May 12th 9 AM to 4 PM Saturday, May 13th 9 AM to 3 PM Roll top desk, maternity clothes, boys’ clothes, tools Misc. household items 9801 Tulley Ave. Oak Lawn
2 Family Garage Sale 6204 W. 93rd Place Fri. & Sat. May 19th & 20th 9am-4pm Household items, clothes, shoes, furniture & more
BEAUTY SALON STATIONS Friendly working environment Reasonable rates Call Annie at A Flair With Hair 708-425-2299
C&C
Wanted
LAWN MOWER & RIDING LAWN MOWERS, small engines, bicycles.
Reasonably priced or free. Call (815) 450-0004
Without advertising, a terrible thing happens…
N O T H I N G Let’s Make Something Happen!
Call us for advertising information and assistance today!
448-6161
448-4000
Landscaping
Landscaping
NEED LAWN SERVICES?
Asphalt Paving Inc. Family Owned & Operated Business Since 1982
Complete Residential & Commercial Service Your Complete Paving Contractor (708)
425-0410
MEMBER BETTER BUSINESS BUREAU
Depend on an accredited company with the qualifications, resources, and professional management that has been getting the job done right for nearly 30 years
Commercial & Residential Maintenance Experts Prompt and Reliable Customer Service No Hidden Costs or Fees
Lawn Maintenance
Certified • Fully Insured Licensed • Bonded
Cleaning Services
TNT LAWN MAINTENANCE
www.threebrotherslandscaping.net
The Regional News | The Reporter 708-448-4000 or 708-448-6161
(708)-687-8091
WEEKLY CUTTINGS - EDGING FREE ESTIMATES SENIOR DISCOUNTS 773-744-0280
Landscaping
Having a garage or yard sale? Advertise it in the Classifieds!
Lawn Mower Repair
DON’S CUSTOM LANDSCAPING
Clean-out Services
Stan’s Hauling
Removal of all unwanted items. From homes, offices, storage areas, garages, apartments, condos, etc. 7 days 773-206-9309 www.stanscleanout.com
Construction
Lawn Mowers & Riding Mowers
************************************************ ALL PHASES OF LANDSCAPING ************************************************ Your Best Choice for Blue Grass Sod Installation Garden Wall Blocks Shrub Trimming & Removal Lawn Maintenance For Residential & Commercial Properties
Repair/Tune-Up
Will fix at your house
Reasonable Rates
Starting Our 34th Season Providing Quality Landscape Services
Call: (815) 450-0004
Visit Our Website WWW.DONSLANDSCAPING.COM
Free Estimates
LUSKEY CONSTRUCTION
708-425-1227
Garages • Decks Additions • Oak Floors 27 Years Experience Licensed and Bonded
(312) 437-3969
Plumbing & Sewer
Landscaping
GEORGE’S GEORGE’S
A. Uribe Landscaping
PLUMBING & SEWER
Custom Landscape Design Brick Paving Sidewalks Tree Removals Retaining Walls & All General Landcaping We Accept all Major Credit Cards
SERVING THE COMMUNITY SINCE 1980
Free Estimates Licensed Bonded Insured
Call : 773-440-3587
Flood Control Specialists All Types of Plumbing Repairs • • • • • •
Hot water tanks • Bathroom installations Toilets, Tubs, Sinks & Faucets Sewers rodded • Sump pumps Sewers inspected by camera Foundation leaks repaired Battery back-up systems
FREE ESTIMATES (most cases) Quality Work - Reasonable Prices 40 years experience -Lic. #SL574
708.952.1833
Construction
Roofing
Concrete -Footings -Foundations -Driveways -Patios
Construction Licensed & Insured!
-Sidewalks -Stamped Concrete -Color Concrete -Remove & Replace
Free Estimates!
Plumbing & Sewer
Tree Service count! Reasonable Dis Town Lowest Prices in
BROTHERS TREE SERVICE Stump Removal - Tree Removal Licensed and Bond 773-239-3570 Senior Citizen Discount 708-913-8968 Remodeling
FATHER & DAUGHTERS REMODELING Not affiliated with Ron Kafka & Father & Sons
SPRING Special 1/3 OFF • Bathrooms • Kitchens • Rec Rooms • Attics • Flooring
• General Repairs • Garage Repairs • Decks • Windows • Doors
• Porches • Dormers • Roofs • Concrete • Tuckpointing
• Siding • Soffit Fascia • Gutters • Electrical • Plumbing
FREE Architectural Drawings and Permit with Room Addition Purchase Free Estimates Guaranteed Work Full Insured
708-795-6940
Senior Discount Veteran Discount Licensed & Bonded
Advertise your business today! Call 448-4000 or 448-6161
Your Guide to Arts and Events in the Southwest Suburbs and Beyond
OUT & ABOUT
The Regional News • The Reporter
Thursday, May 11, 2017
O&A MOVIE REVIEW
Second journey for ‘Guardians’ still provides laughs, energy When the first “Guardians of the Galaxy” came out in 2013, it was a breath of fresh air. It was a comic book movie without the heavy pathos of responsibility that plagued another genre entry that same summer — “Man of Steel” (directed by Zack Snyder). It was technically a Marvel movie, but didn’t bear the burden of needing to develop a pre-established story like that summer’s “Iron Man 3” (directed by Shane Black). It was a weird space action/comedy directed by an indie sensation (James Gunn) with a purposely kitschy soundtrack and snarky attitude. Now writer/director Gunn has tried to rebottle the lightning with “Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2” and does so to varying degrees of success. He’s broadened the scope of the adventure for the film’s merry band of space pirates turned unconventional heroes. The action sequences are bigger. The soundtrack is more expansive. And this film contains more gags per minute in its opening sequence than the first may have had in its entire runtime. But, all of this comes at a cost. The action sequences are bigger, but the character scenes are fewer. No joke goes unsaid, but that doesn’t mean that they’re all funny. The energy is definitely still there, but the novelty feels lost. The plot is more complicated than the first film, and yet, somehow the piece feels less complex. This time around, the Guardians are in a sticky situation. They’re wanted by a group of space mercenaries led by Yondu (Michael Rooker), on the run from a galactic species of golden creatures whom the Guardians have offended and must also contend with their leader Peter Quill (Chris Pratt) reconnecting with his mysterious father (Kurt Russell). If the first film was a take on ‘70s and ‘80s scifi schlock, Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2 feels more like a chase picture in the vein of “The Blues
The Center sets event slate
The Center, 12700 Southwest Highway, Palos Park, is offering several events in the days ahead. Many classes will be held outdoors, or in The Log Cabin Center for the Arts, part of The Center. For more information, or to register for a program, call (708) 361-3650. • “Barn To Be Wild 9” starts at 1 p.m. Saturday May 13 and runs to 4 p.m. Sunday May 14. Center Development Director Mark Walker will live (and sleep over) in the pigpen for 27 hours in order to raise money to further the mission of The Center. There will be visitors, art projects, music, and the event will be webcast at barntobewild.org. Farm admission is free both Saturday and Sunday for the event. • Communion Sunday is set for 12:30 and 4:30 p.m. Sunday, May 14. Due to the Center Singers’ spring concert, communion will be offered on the second Sunday of May. Volunteers are needed setting up communion, as well as helping distribute it. Those who are able and interested should contact Chris Hopkins at The Center. All are welcome. Note: The Wayside Chapel serves a non-alcoholic drink and gluten-free bread. • “Essential Oils: Spa Night” runs from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. Friday, May 19. Instructor Liz Credio will lead this workshop. Participants will learn to make a detoxifying footbath to soak in during class and take home. The class will also make an essential oils body spray and deodorant powder to prepare for a hot summer. All will relax and smell the lavender while listening to relaxing music and sampling essential oil-infused
VIDEOVIEW BY JAY BOBBIN NOTICE: Ratings for each film begin with a ‘star’ rating — one star meaning ‘poor,’ four meaning ‘excellent’ — followed by the Motion Picture Association of America rating, and then by a family-viewing guide, the key for which appears below.
STARTING THIS WEEK:
“FIFTY SHADES DARKER’’: Anyone who knows E.L. James’ novels is aware the relationship of Anastasia Steele and Christian Grey didn’t end with “Fifty Shades of Grey,’’ thus this James Foley-directed sequel that returns Dakota Johnson and Jamie Dornan to the roles. The story reflects what happened before and after “Ana’’ became a part of Grey’s world, with Kim Basinger as a woman who had much
WOLFGANG PUCK’S KITCHEN
BRIAN LAUGHRAN
Brothers” (1980, directed by John Landis) or “Every Which Way But Loose” (1978, directed by James Fargo) — the kind of film where the heroes are constantly on the run and every person they meet eventually joins the chase. While I applaud Gunn for attempting a different kind of film, I’m not sure this entirely works, especially when the Guardians get pulled into different directions and have to separate. This movie has the most fun when the core group is playing off of one another. That being said, there is still a lot to like in Fried eggs are a staple ingredient of huevos rancheros. this film. Gunn’s script has a lot of wit in its dialogue, and he writes his characters with complete sincerity and touching humanity. That last part is really impressive when you consider that one of the characters is a talking raccoon (voice of Bradley Cooper) and the other is an anthropomorphic tree (voice of Vin Diesel). If I had to summarize my feelings I’d use this analogy: Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2 is like when a new band hot off their first album releases By Wolfgang Puck have to limit yourself to enjoying their second. It might not be a bad record, but the the recipe in the morning alone. It’s sound isn’t fresh anymore. There’s a level of beenWhen May arrives, so many also an excellent choice to make there-done-that, but the songs still work. people across America begin and serve for lunch or even dinthinking about how they’ll cel- ner. Whatever the time of day, its RATING: B+ ebrate Cinco de Mayo, the holi- sauce, canned beans, guacamole, day commemorating the Battle of tortillas and eggs are easy to shop Brian Laughran’s movie reviews appear on the Puebla, an important victory in for, prepare and serve. second and fourth Thursday of every month. Though the recipe calls a good 1862 during Mexico’s war against invading French forces. But it may number of ingredients, none of surprise you to learn that the day them are hard to find in wellis only a minor occasion in its stocked supermarkets today. And, home country, while Americans you can make the ranchero sauce, have adopted it as an occasion to black beans (for which I take the recognize Latino contributions to perfectly fine shortcut of starting our own nation’s culture — and with canned beans) and guacamole an excellent reason to have a great an hour or two ahead of time, leaving you to finish the simple party. I myself love to eat Mexican tasks of frying the tortillas and food on May 5, and I’m grateful eggs and assemble the final dish for the many hardworking cooks just before serving. You can also of Hispanic descent in my res- add some meat if you want, stirring taurant kitchens who share their sauteed chorizo, chopped ham or own authentic versions of tradi- crispy bacon into the beans. So, for Cinco de Mayo, let me tional dishes with me. One of my favorites is the following recipe wish you happy eating — or, as for the version of huevos ranche- they say in Mexico, Buen prros we offer on the breakfast and ovecho! brunch menus in my restaurant Supplied photo Wolfgang Puck at Hotel Bel-Air HUEVOS RANCHEROS Mark Walker in the barn at a previous Barn To Be Wild. in Los Angeles. The recipe comes Serves 4 water. Workshop fee is $17, plus May 16. Students will practice and courtesy of Hugo Bolanos, my exa $16 materials fee. then play a game of three-on-three. ecutive chef there, who’s originally For the ranchero sauce: For this program, students will from Mexico’s next-door neighbor, • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil • 3 large beefsteak tomatoes, travel in The Bridge Bus to 15101 Guatemala, where it is a popular Bridge Teen Center stemmed, seeded and S. 80th Avenue in Orland Park. staple as well. provides free events I think people love this dish quartered • “Garden Decor” runs The Bridge Teen Center, 15555 for many good reasons. With the • 1 jalapeno chile, cut from 4:30 to 5:30 p.m. Wednesday, S. 71st Ct., Orland Park, is offercombination of perfectly fried lengthwise in half and ing several free events for teens in May 17, Students will decorate eggs, creamy black beans, crispy seeded seventh through 12th grade dur- their gardens with painted rocks tortillas, spicy roasted vegetable • 1 dried guajillo chile, and stones for a fun but natural ing the upcoming week. For more salsa, cool guacamole and crumstemmed information, call (708) 532-0500. look. bled fresh cheese, it feels like an • 1/2 red onion, coarsely • “High School Study Lounge • “Banana Bonanza” is schedexciting buffet of flavors, textures, chopped uled to start at 7:30 p.m. Friday, with Yogurt Parfaits” is scheduled temperatures, colors and shapes, • 10 cherry tomatoes, May 12, Students are invited to a for 2 to 6 p.m. Thursday, May 18. all on a single plate. Eat it in the stemmed banana-themed night with games, Students are invited to make The morning, and you feel fueled up for • 4 sprigs fresh cilantro karaoke and open mic. Free food Bridge their study spot on finals a busy day, whether that involves • 3 cloves garlic, peeled samples will be provided by Tru- week. There will be energy-boost- riding horses and roping cattle, • 2 pinches ground cumin Gurt. This is a “high school after ing snacks, tutors, whiteboards and working at a desk, or spending • Pinch kosher salt, plus hours night.” Students in seventh study supplies available. leisure time with your family and extra for seasoning and eighth grades may stay un• “Staff vs. Students Night” and friends. • Generous pinch granulated til 10:30 p.m., but high school “Mega Jump Rope Challenge” are sugar But another great thing about students are invited to stay until • Freshly ground black set for 7:30 to 10:30 p.m. Friday, huevos rancheros is that you don’t midnight. • “Project Serve: Making Mem- May 19. Students are invited go ories with Mom” runs from 10 head-to-head with favorite staff, a.m. to noon Saturday, May 13, volunteers and interns and see if Students and their moms are they can be number one in air invited to talk over coffee and hockey, pool, Connect 4 or other muffins and serve together at The games throughout the night. There By Jeraldine Saunders consider if it creates a means to will also be a live performance by Bridge Thrift Store. a worthy end. • Three-on-three basketball is R&B artist Christal Luster and free LEO (July 23-Aug. 22): ConARIES (March 21-April 19): set for 4 to 5:30 p.m. Tuesday, food samples from White Castle. Give an answer without getting sistent effort will earn recognition an argument. By taking your time and appreciation from those who and being thorough you can avoid count the most. Make an effort to the problems that arise from too keep busy with constructive and much speed and thoughtlessness. worthwhile projects in the week to come. Be willing to wait for to do with his being who he is Jenji Kohan. A new chief of the Exercise self-discipline in the a pat on the back. week ahead. — the prelude to a big reversal guards is a factor in Maureen’s VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22): TAURUS (April 20-May 20): of interpersonal significance to (Emily Althaus) amped-up desire Be passionate about having the each other for the couple. Marcia to escape, and the populations of As this week unfolds you may best of everything. Focus on makGay Harden, Luke Grimes, Eloise new inmates and veterans are in- find powerful ways to realize your ing your dreams come true in the Mumford and Rita Ora also reprise tegrating, stirring new tensions on ambitions. Anything you begin week to come, even if it means their roles from the first film, with top of those already very present. will have your complete atten- you must learn something new. Bella Heathcote and Eric Johnson Laverne Cox, Laura Prepon, Blair tion and you can achieve your You may succeed if you perform (“Rookie Blue’’) in the cast as Brown, Kate Mulgrew and Lori dreams because of your passion diligent research. well. The screenplay is by Niall Petty are among others continuing and single-mindedness. LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 22): GEMINI (May 21-June 20): Charity begins at home. Be grateLeonard, author James’ husband. their roles. Season 5 of the show *** (R and unrated versions: AS, begins streaming in June. DVD Act as though you know what ful for reliable partners, devoted N, P) (Also on Blu-ray and On extras: “making-of’’ documentary; you are doing. In the week ahead family members and steadfast Demand) cast and crew commentaries; out- you should give no one any rea- friends in the week ahead. Finan“ORANGE IS THE NEW takes. *** (Not rated: AS, P, V) son to suspect your motives. Just cial stability and material success when everything is going along will be yours if you work hard BLACK: SEASON FOUR’’: (Also on Blu-ray) Life certainly doesn’t get any “DIVORCE: THE COM- as planned someone might throw and apply your skills. easier for Piper (Taylor Schilling), PLETE FIRST SEASON’’: you a curve ball. SCORPIO (Oct. 23-Nov. 21): CANCER (June 21-July Answer the call when called upon who finds herself in very direct Though Sarah Jessica Parker has a peril from other Litchfield inmates, series affiliation with HBO again, 22): Money might be meant for to do your best. In the week ahead in this round of the seriocomic and anyone expecting another “Sex spending, but only if it creates your partner or loved ones might much-praised — and often quite and the City’’ is in for a surprise. a meaningful ending. During the pressure you to do your best. Be week ahead whenever emphasis appreciative of support and don’t violent — Netflix series develContinued on page 8 placed on finances and possessions waste time trying to do things on oped and executive-produced by
BROADEN YOUR HORIZONS
Southwest • Section 2, Page 7
Dreamstime.com
The fried is right: Enjoy a taste of authentic Latino cuisine pepper
For the black bean puree: • 2 15.5-ounce (439-g) cans black beans, drained • 1/4 cup (60 mL) mascarpone cheese or sour cream • Kosher salt • Freshly ground black pepper For the guacamole: • 2 ripe Hass-style avocados, halved, pitted, flesh scooped out • 1 to 2 teaspoons finely chopped jalapeno chile • 1/4 red onion, finely chopped • 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lime juice • 1/4 cup (60 mL) chopped fresh cilantro • Kosher salt For assembly: • Vegetable oil for frying • 4 corn tortillas • Kosher salt • Freshly ground black pepper • 8 large eggs • 4 ounces (125 g) queso fresco or mild feta, crumbled • 1/2 cup (125 mL) sour cream • Small sprigs fresh cilantro First, make the ranchero sauce: Preheat a broiler. On a lightly oiled rimmed baking sheet, put the beefsteak tomatoes, chiles, onion, cherry tomatoes, cilantro and garlic. Sprinkle with the cumin, salt and sugar. Drizzle with 2 tablespoons oil. Broil until partly charred, turning once with tongs. Transfer the ingredients to a food processor and pulse to coarsely puree; or pass the ingredients through a food mill over a mixing bowl. Season Continued on page 8
OMARR’S WEEKLY ASTROLOGICAL FORECAST your own. SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22Dec. 21): Make material stability a priority as this week unfolds. Your ambitious nature will have a chance to shine when you are given the opportunity to stabilize your finances. Self-discipline and planning will pay off. CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19): Push the pedal to the metal in the week ahead. You can let your creativity have full rein and accomplish whatever you set out to do. You will have plenty of assistance from the family unit to realize your dreams. AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18): The way finances are handled demonstrates character. Proof of your dedication to duty and sterling ethics can be like money in the bank. Don’t let gossip or innuendo affect your financial decisions in the week ahead. PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20): Your inner hero doesn’t need to be faster than a speeding bullet to overcome misunderstandings and obstacles. Achieve new heights in the week ahead without being abrasive or pretending to be something you aren’t.
Your Guide to Arts and Events in the Southwest Suburbs and Beyond
OUT & ABOUT
The Regional News • The Reporter
Thursday, May 11, 2017
Southwest • Section 2, Page 8
LIZ SMITH
The last of ‘Feud’ and another big-screen take on Mary, Queen of Scots By Liz Smith “THE PEOPLE, the public, they don’t care about the rest. They remember the good things, the work.” It’s half-amusing and half-sad that producer Ryan Murphy put these words in the mouth of the great and sexy Stanley Tucci, aka Jack Warner, in the season finale of Ryan’s FX series “Feud: Bette and Joan” on Sunday night. Over the past couple of months we’ve (mostly me, Denis) have talked a lot about “Feud,” and we’ve wanted to believe that producer Ryan was sincere in his insistence that the show was not to be a grisly camp-fest, but a real look at the issues of women aging out in Hollywood, misogyny, etc. Yes and no. Ryan of “American Horror Story” fame couldn’t resist the occasional camp and grotesquerie of Bette and Joan in their later years. However, thanks to the brilliant performances of Susan Sarandon as Bette and Jessica Lange as Crawford, the more serious, and touching aspects of these two wildly complex women — great stars, great actors, great phonies — came through like laser beams. (I admit, aspects of the final episode were fairly harrowing, as to women living alone.) Crawford was pretentious, which made her phoniness more obvious. Davis, looser, funnier, bellowed her “honestly,” but was equally fake, prone to fantasy — “Crawford lobbied against me and lost me the ‘Baby Jane’ Oscar” — and addicted to conflict. Bette’s epitaph reads “She did it the hard way.” But all too often, she didn’t have to, she preferred it. Lange and Sarandon deserve Emmy nominations. Perhaps both will win. I’d prefer to see Lange take the prize, because Crawford did fight harder for respect; her
glamour was an albatross and her insecurity overwhelming. Maybe on that big sound set in the sky she’d feel vindicated. We shall see. NOW, I’VE asked my partner, Liz Smith, for some of her own recollections of Joan and Bette. Says Liz: “I knew both of them after their tempestuous younger days, shall we say. Crawford had me to her home in Los Angeles when her twins were little. I met all four children and observed them on a Christmas day. They all seemed petrified to speak, or to open a gift without permission from Joan. She seemed to bend over backward to make a good impression, yet Joan was one of the most uncomfortable women in her own house that I’d ever met. But she was undeniably glamorous!” “I met Miss Davis at NBC during the ‘Live at Five’ days. She ordered everyone around, insisted on certain lighting and make-up. She was a pain in the a--, but — ta da! — she turned out to be right on all counts. Also, she looked great, and I looked like a mile of bad road. But who cared? The actress Geraldine Fitzgerald also told me a lot of Bette stories from their days at Warner Bros., and how Bette inspired her to fight for her rights. “The agent Michael Black was also a font of amusing Bette anecdotes. She fell out with me at an awards dinner. I was seated near her. I made an innocuous remark, asking if she was ever “nervous” during such events — she had just made a presentation. Bette gave me a glare that Medusa would have envied and barked “Never!” She would not look or speak to me again, and actually got up and left the table, leaving me obviously, embarrassingly alone. (I was sure people were wondering, ‘what did that awful gossip columnist say to
VIDEOVIEW BY JAY BOBBIN Continued from page 7 In what’s ostensibly a comedy but also has considerable drama, Parker and Thomas Haden Church (“Sideways’’) play a couple who — as the title indicates — are in the process of ending their marriage. With the time that a weekly show allows, the effects of their breakup on others around them also are explored, with Molly Shannon, Talia Balsam and actor-playwright Tracy Letts (“Superior Donuts’’) also in the cast. Parker has her hand in the program, which will be getting a Season 2, as an executive producer as well (along with Sharon Horgan, of “Catastrophe’’ fame). DVD extras: “making-of’’ documentary; audio commentary by cast and crew members. *** (Not rated: AS, N, P) (Also on Blu-ray) “BEACHES’’: The original 1988 movie directed by Garry Marshall remains so popular, many of its fans likely feel it doesn’t need a remake ... but Lifetime went ahead with this recent and reasonably affecting one anyway, casting Idina Menzel and Nia Long in the earlier Bette Midler and Barbara Hershey parts as dissimilar women — a singer and a lawyer — whose lifelong friendship endures its share of
hurdles. Given Menzel’s “Frozen’’ and “Wicked’’ musical fame, it should come as little surprise that she belts out the ballad this story is linked to forever, “Wind Beneath My Wings.’’ Gabriella Pizzolo and Grace Capeless have the central roles at younger ages, and for this version, director Allison Anders admitted she didn’t want to tinker with Marshall’s formula much. And she didn’t. *** (Not rated: AS, P)
COMING SOON:
“DUCK DYNASTY: SEASON 11 - THE FINAL SEASON’’ (May 16): Some family milestones arise for the Robertsons as they bring the curtain down on their unscripted series. (Not rated) “RESIDENT EVIL: THE FINAL CHAPTER’’ (May 16): Milla Jovovich is back one more time as Alice, trying to prevent the undead from erasing the last vestiges of mankind. (R: P, GV) “THE SPACE BETWEEN US’’ (May 16): A teenager (Asa Butterfield) who was born on Mars comes to Earth to rendezvous with an ally (Britt Robertson). (PG-13: AS, P) FAMILY-VIEWING GUIDE KEY: AS, adult situations; N, nudity; P, profanity; V, violence; GV, particularly graphic violence.
WOLFGANG PUCK’S KITCHEN Continued from page 7 to taste with salt and pepper and set aside. Next, prepare the black bean buree. Set aside 1/4 cup (60 mL) of the drained black beans. Put the remaining beans in a clean food processor bowl with the stainlesssteel blade and pulse until coarsely pureed. Transfer the puree to a small saucepan, warm up the puree over low heat, stirring frequently; stir in the mascarpone, and season to taste with salt and pepper. Cover and keep warm. For the guacamole, combine all the ingredients in a mixing bowl. With a fork, coarsely mash and stir the ingredients together. Season to taste with salt. To assemble the huevos rancheros, add 2 inches (5 cm) of vegetable oil to a heavy large Dutch oven or saucepan. Heat the oil to 350 F (175 C) on a deep-
frying thermometer. Working in batches, fry the tortillas until crisp and golden, about 1 minute per side. turning with tongs. Transfer to paper towels to drain. Season with salt. Preheat the oven to 350 F (175 C). Heat 1 tablespoon oil in each of two large ovenproof nonstick skillets over medium heat. Sprinkle with salt and pepper. Crack 4 eggs into each skillet and cook for 2 minutes. Transfer the skillets to the oven to continue cooking to desired doneness, about 30 seconds longer for softly set eggs. Spoon ranchero sauce onto 4 heated serving plates. Spoon some black bean sauce on top of the sauce in the center of each plate. Sprinkle with reserved black beans and queso fresco. Top each plate with 1 tortilla and 2 fried eggs. Garnish with guacamole, sour cream, more ranchero sauce and cilantro. Serve immediately.
poor Bette Davis?’) “They were incredible in their individual ways, but I felt both were so, so insecure! Later, after cancer and strokes had weakened her, Bette was still up for a fight. She was so awful to Lillian Gish during the making of “The Whales of August” that Gish, a great star from the silent era, said the experience almost killed her!” OH, and here is an exquisite P.S. Ryan Murphy wrote to Olivia de Havilland, asking what she’d thought of his show? (In the series, Catherine Zeta-Jones portrayed her.) The great star, 100 years old and living in Paris, responded: “Having not seen the show, I cannot make a valid comment about it. However, in principle, I am opposed to any representation of personages who are no longer alive to judge the accuracy of any incident depicted as involving themselves.” Olivia concluded: “As to the 1963 Oscar ceremony, which took place over half a century ago, I regret to say that I have no memory of it whatsoever and therefore cannot vouch for its accuracy.” Ryan expressed himself as charmed by her response and referred to her as ‘always a lady.’” You said a mouthful, Ryan. INTERESTING NEWS that the eternally roiling subject of the rivalry between Mary, Queen of Scots and her cousin, Queen Elizabeth I, will again be made into a feature film. This one will star Margot Robbie as the emotional, heart-over-head Mary, and Saoirse Ronan, as the equally emotional but more adeptly calculating Queen Elizabeth. (The Virgin Queen was rather like Jenny, the heroine of “Lady in the Dark” — she could never make up her mind!) Elizabeth, who kept Mary im-
Lauren/Rex Shutterstock/Zuma Press/TNS
Jessica Lange arrives to the “Feud: Bette and Joan” TV Series premiere on March 1, 2017 in Los Angeles.
prisoned for decades in England, was fearful of a face-to-face meeting with her cousin, afraid she, too, might fall under the spell of the Scottish legend. Mary disingenuously insisted she was only interested in “friendly relations” with her “dear” relative. But her viable claim to the English throne threw a wrench into cozy dinners.) In 1936, Katharine Hepburn played Mary in a film that did nothing for Hepburn’s (at the time) fast-fading career. Later, in 1971, Glenda Jackson took on Elizabeth, and Vanessa Redgrave was a ravishing, headstrong Mary. I always think of Mary, physically, as Vanessa, just as I always associate Genevieve Bujold with Anne Boleyn, in 1969’s “Anne of the Thousand Days” opposite Richard Burton. (The current TV series “Reign” purports to tell the tale of Mary and Elizabeth, but it’s really a teen-bait melange of fanciful truths and outright fantasies. It’s amusing, but I hope no young people take the show seriously!)
It will be fascinating to see if this new film follows the fictional, if highly dramatic fantasy that Mary and Elizabeth actually met. They never did, but it always makes for a juicy scene. Josie Rourke will direct. This is perhaps the most significant aspect of the new film — a woman director, a woman’s view of two of the most famous, ambitious, successful and perversely thwarted females in history. I can’t wait. IT IS pleasing to see that Literacy Partners’ “so-called” Lizzie Award (I mentioned this last week) will go this year to the one and only HBO gem, documentarymaker Sheila Nevins. The event happens on May 24, a Wednesday, at Cipriani 42nd Street. This award, created for Literacy Partners to support the work of the late Arnold Scaasi, Parker Ladd and yours truly, continues a fight to teach millions of adult New Yorkers how to read and write. I will be there and I hope they’ll let me hand my own award to
the incredible documentary-maker Sheila. This is Sheila’s year. And she has her life memoir out (“You Don’t Look Your Age: And Other Fairy Tales.”) This book is making waves everywhere. And there’s an audio version read by Sheila’s many admirers — a host of them — including Meryl Streep, just to drop a name. In addition to Sheila, the CEO of SESAC John Josephson, USA TODAY’s Editor-in-Chief Joanne Lipman and Fareed Zakaria of CNN will also be honored. And a special thank you to our dear friend writer Ellen “Pucky” Violett for her generosity. If you’d like to join us, get in touch with my good friends at Buckley Hall Events at 914579-1000 or literacypartners(at) buckleyhallevents.com. See you in black tie at Cipriani. E-mail Liz Smith at MES3838@ aol.com.