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Contract for Altenheim demolition awarded ‘There’s going to be a lot of eyes on this project’

By MARIA MAXHAM Editor

Demolition of the dilapidated Altenheim buildings will be done by KLF Enterprises Inc., the lowest responsible bidder of nine contractors who submitted bids to do the work. KLF Enterprises’ bid on demolition, environmental abatement, and all other work described in the request for bids is $546,970. The next lowest bid was $660,000.

The project includes demolition of five structures and environmental abatement for asbestos and lead for all except the garage, which is newer than the others and doesn’t contain dangerous substances. Work will also include grading the site after the buildings are done and putting down topsoil and seed.

Christopher B. Burke Engineering Ltd. (CBBEL), Forest Park’s contracted village engineers, estimated the project would cost $700,000, and the Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO) grant that will repay the village for the work is for $750,000.

It is a reimbursement grant, so there will be no “leftovers” for the village after the work is complete.

The bids were opened on Jan. 27.

At a village council meeting on Feb. 9, the commissioners and mayor voted unanimously to award the contract to KLF. Questions were asked about the contractor, specifically related to any subcontracting See ALTENHEIM DEMO on page 5

Photo by Scott Dunnell

BACK TO SCHOOL: Freya Kamdar, along with about 80 other D91 students, returned to the classroom on Feb. 8.

Optional hybrid learning begins at D91

Students return to school for first time in nearly a year

By MARIA MAXHAM Editor

For the first time since the pandemic closed schools last year, some students were back in District 91 classrooms,

IN Crime . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6 THIS Big Week . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7 ISSUE Opinion . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14 Classified . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17

learning in person this week. Approximately 80 children in preschool, Kindergarten, third grade and sixth grade went back on Feb. 8.

This is about half the kids in those grades and represents the trend seen across all grades in the district: the ratio was about 50-50 for families opting to continue exclusively with remote learning and those opting to send their kids back three mornings a week.

“We are so excited to see our students

in the buildings for the first time since last April,” said Superintendent Lou Cavallo in a Jan. 29 email to parents reminding them about the hybrid back-toschool plan.

This first week brings the youngest learners in each school back to the buildings. At Garfield, it is preschoolers and Kindergarteners. At Betsy Ross, it is Kindergarten students. At Grant See D91 BACK TO SCHOOL on page 10

Black History Month art exhibit

Triton College COVID-19 vaccination location

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Forest Park Review, February 10, 2021

Young artist makes his mark on Black History Month

Hasani Cannon’s work displayed on Dark Matter Coffee products

By MICHAEL ROMAIN Staff Reporter

Up-and-coming Oak Park artist Hasani Cannon is making his creative presence felt in the community during Black History Month.

His art is currently on display inside Forest Park National Bank, 7348 Madison St. in Forest Park. He also designed a special edition Black History Month coffee bag for Dark Matter Coffee, which has partnered with YEMBA Inc., a nonprofit that serves Oak Park-area young people.

Cannon, 20, graduated from Oak Park and River Forest High School in 2019 and participated in YEMBA as a middle school student. He has also been involved in the Oak Park Area Arts Council’s Off the Wall Program, a summer youth employment program that pairs young people with master artists to create mosaic and bricolage murals in Oak Park and surrounding communities, such as neighboring Austin.

“Hasani was always very visual, inquisitive and thoughtful,” said Edward Redd, YEMBA’s founder. “Every time I saw him in the class, he was always drawing

something. At the end of our season, we always have a comment ceremony. I gave each kid a gift that represented them and at the time I gave him some color pencils and a pad because I knew he was very talented and art was something he was very passionate about.”

Camille Wilson White, executive director of the Oak Park Area Arts Council, which curates the exhibition space inside Forest Park National Bank, said she recalls Hasani furiously pedaling his bike on South Boulevard in order to get to work on time.

White said Cannon was instrumental in the creation of several murals around town, including the Black Lives Matter mural installed on Scoville Avenue and the mural on the Randolph side of the West Cook YMCA, 255 S. Marion St. White said the Arts Council operates three galleries in the area. Due to the pandemic, the one inside Forest Park National Bank is the only one currently open. This past summer, she said, the Off the Wall program took a hiatus due to the pandemic, but she’s hopeful the program can return this summer and that she can hire Cannon to work as a senior apprentice.

“Hasani has grown into a tremendous arts leader in the community,” White said. “I’m looking forward to having him back.”

Cannon, who currently attends the University of Illinois Springfield, said he honed his skills at OPRF, evolving from an

aspiring comic book artist and superhero fan to a more serious and astute fine artist.

“One of the biggest things that really showed me I can actually do this for a living was my high school art teacher [Tracy Van Duinen], who recognized my skills at the time,” he said.

“He really opened my eyes to seeing art as art, and recognizing the characteristics and fundamentals of it. He reintroduced me to the fundamentals of color pencils. He also

ALEX ROGALS/Staff Photographer

UP AND COMING: Oak Park artist Hasani Cannon’s artwork is on display at Forest Park National Bank, 7328 Madison St.

showed me techniques and videos to watch to enhance my skills.”

The exhibition in Forest Park and the Dark Matter Coffee bag feature Cannon’s evolving perspective, one grounded in African representation. The essential theme of the work, he said, is rooted in Afrocentrism, a perspective he gained through studying the history of Western art and what it leaves out.

“I often see that African art really isn’t represented as I’d like it to be, and oftentimes the Western perspective of art is usually taken as the quintessential perspective,” he said.

“I wanted my art to reflect the past and my experiences growing up. I was surrounded by a lot of African culture, African masks.

My mother is an African dancer and I do African drumming,” he explained. “So the culture has always been prevalent in my life.”

But as much as he culls from the past, Cannon also steeps his work in contemporaneity, namely the personalities around him. One of his works, “The Concealed One,” illustrates the face of Cannon’s brother, which is concealed by an Afrocentric mask.

“The mask is covering up most of his face, but that mask represents how I view him in a way,” he said. “He’s very concealed, keeps a lot of stuff to himself, but there’s nothing wrong with that; it’s just his personality. In fact, there’s a regal sense about him.”

Cannon said his artwork is made from recycled materials, such as plastic wrappers and cardboard. The process mirrors his general philosophy, which is rooted in the idea of regeneration and place.

“I’m very passionate about the arts and about imparting what I learn and receive,” he said. “I want to give back to people and enhance whatever community I’m part of.”

While standing in the lobby on Monday, Donald Offerman, the senior vice president at Forest Park National Bank and former OPRF High School superintendent, raved about the color Cannon’s work brings to the facility, especially on an overcast winter day.

“We’re delighted to have the art on display here,” Offerman said. “It’s consistent with our values and with the celebration of Black History Month.”

You can view Cannon’s artwork during Forest Park National Bank’s lobby hours: Monday and Tuesday, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.; Wednesday, 1 to 5 p.m.; and Thursday, Friday and Saturday, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. The exhibition will run through the months of February and March.

To pre-order the YEMBA/Dark Coffee special edition Black History Month coffee bag featuring Cannon’s work, visit yembainc.org. All proceeds will go to YEMBA.

Forest Park Review, February 10, 2021

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Forest Park’s rich Black history

ebruary is Black History Month and few communities have a richer history than Forest Park. We have the good, bad and the ugly. Let’s start with the good.

Forest Park is the final resting place of Professor Joseph Corbin, a Black man who overcame intense prejudice to become Superintendent of Education in Arkansas. Corbin founded the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff. He was later forced out as superintendent and moved to the Bronzeville neighborhood of Chicago. He died in 1911 and was buried in Forest Home Cemetery.

His biographer, Gladys Turner Finney, is a Black woman who graduated from the college Corbin founded. She learned the cemetery had no record of a headstone for Corbin’s grave. Gladys raised the money to purchase a headstone commemorating Corbin as the “Father for Higher Education in Arkansas.”

Just before the ceremony on Memorial Day 2013, I visited Corbin’s grave to make sure the headstone had arrived. I was floored to see there was already a large monument honoring Corbin. Gladys was also stunned but we held a ceremony attended by Congressman Danny Davis and other dignitaries.

Schanna Gayden is also buried in Forest

Home Cemetery. She didn’t achieve the accomplishments of Professor Corbin, because she was struck by a stray bullet in a Chicago park on June 25, 2007.

She died at the age of 13 and her mother, Rita, was too paralyzed with grief to make funeral arrangements.

Forest Home Cemetery donated the costs of Schanna’s burial and created a modest garden to honor her. They designed a granite bench, with figures of children in a circle of love. Inscribed on the bench are the words, “In memory of all the loved ones who have been lost to violence. Where there is faith, there is love. Where there is God, there is no need for violence.”

Not far from Schanna’s memorial is the grave of Lucy Parsons. She was a woman of mixed race, who had been married to Haymarket Martyr, Albert Parsons. After his execution, Lucy continued to march and speak for the poor. When she was banned from speaking on Illinois soil, she rented barges and gave speeches from the Chicago River to crowds on the bridges above.

Setting aside our cemeteries, Forest Park made history when we elected Rory Hoskins as commissioner. Hoskins is now our first Black mayor. Rory isn’t content just to make history. He also works to preserve it. The Galveston native was an early proponent of celebrating Juneteenth,

JOHN RICE

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the holiday that marks the end of slavery.

Juneteenth is now celebrated in 46 states.

As for the ugly, I took part in making a documentary about one of the first Black families to purchase a home in Forest Park.

It was January 1976 and they were subjected to bricks thrown through windows, arson, and shots fired. An Italian-American stranger named Mike Chiappetta came to the rescue of Ezra Buckner and his family.

The film “Ezra & Mike” was screened at the Lake Theatre in 2017.

Forest Park’s fascinating history was once included in the middle-school curriculum. Students took walking field trips to Forest Home Cemetery to view monuments.

Soon we will have a new District 91 superintendent. Dr. Elizabeth Alvarez is a history-maker in her own right. I hope she will consider including Forest Park history in the middle-school curriculum. Our cemeteries can be used as outdoor classrooms.

Middle-school students have also been receptive to presentations about a statue called “The Death of Cleopatra” which was carved by a Black woman named Edmonia Lewis and sat in Forest Park for 70 years.

It is now in the Smithsonian Museum in Washington D.C. ■ John Rice is a columnist/private detective, who has seen his business and family thrive in Forest Park. He thoroughly enjoys life in the village and still gets a thrill smelling Red Hots, watching softball and strolling through cemeteries. Jrice1038@aol.com

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REVIEW In 1998, Joseph Business Center, an entrepreneurial education arm of Living Word Christian Center, hosted a “Global Entrepreneurial” conference. One of the featured speakers was Jim Johnson, a Chicago based businessman who turned a self-contained communion wafer and wine packet into Compak International, an international nutrition and health packaging company.

–Jill Wagner

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Forest Park Review, February 10, 2021

Operating at 0% capacity, by choice Why some Forest Park restaurants keep dining rooms dark

By MELISSA ELSMO Food Editor

Empty restaurant dining rooms have become an upsetting hallmark of the COVID-19 pandemic. When suburban Cook County moved into Tier 1 COVID-19 mitigations on Jan. 23, it came as no surprise that many eateries opted to open their dining rooms almost instantaneously. Though restaurants and bars are now permitted to host customers indoors at reduced capacity, it is notable that several Forest Park establishments have intentionally kept their dining rooms closed despite easing COVIDrelated restrictions. The reasons behind the choice to remain closed are as varied as the fluctuating circumstances that led to their closures in the first place.

Katherine Valleau, owner of Exit Strategy Brewing, 7700 Madison St., has kept her brewery dining room closed since outdoor dining came to an end in late October 2020. The space remains closed for indoor dining despite the allowance for limited capacity indoor dining.

“We believe in science, we believe in masks, and we know COVID is real. This was always a public health and safety related decision for us,” said Valleau.

“My husband and I are not comfortable, our staff isn’t comfortable, and our customers are not comfortable dining indoors yet.”

After making the heartbreaking decision to lay off 90% of their staff in October, Valleau, and head brewer, business partner and husband Christopher, opted to retain Exit Strategy’s general manager, Jess Phillips, two front-of-house staff members, their chef and one kitchen assistant. The skeleton crew keeps beer flowing into growlers and food flying into carryout containers.

“We communicated openly and honestly with our staff throughout the pandemic, so no one was surprised by the layoffs,” said Valleau. “We don’t want to be inconsistent and open the dining room one day and close it the next. We are committed to focusing on carryout only until warmer weather returns.”

Though some employees have found other jobs, Valleau is hopeful everyone will return to work at Exit Strategy when their outdoor dining area reopens on March 31.

Until then, masks are required when picking up orders and traffic flows in one direction through the restaurant to ensure customers and staff are as safe as possible.

“I don’t besmirch restaurants for doing what it takes to survive right now,” said Valleau. “But knowing I am doing things that are morally wise in a business sense helps me sleep better at night. Through this experience we have solidified our footing as a business that is going to make decisions that put people first.”

Forest Park café, Kribi Coffee, 7324 Madison St., is also keeping their dining spaces quiet while they make a concerted plan for reopening based on medical advice and staff input.

Kribi Coffee owner Jacques Shalo’s wife, Cindy Fellencer, is a Loyola Hospital nurse and deeply involved in coordinating the COVID-19 vaccine rollout. She has been using her medical knowledge to guide Shalo’s decisions and make recommendations related to reopening.

‘I don’t judge restaurants that have reopened. Personally, I find this scary and want to take it slow,” said the coffee shop owner. “There are so many moving parts

TAKING HER TIME: Katherine Valleau (right), owner of Exit Strategy Brewing, with general manager Jess Phillips. Valleau is serving take-out and filling growlers but has opted to keep the dining room closed a little longer.

Photo by Melissa Elsmo

to all of this, and this is like nothing we have ever dealt with before. COVID is not a switch you can just turn on and off.”

Shalo is focused on empowering his staff to help make decisions related to reopening and welcomes their participation in making methodical plans to keep everyone safe. Kribi is having an all-staff meeting to go through a “re-training” process designed to make sure COVID safety measures like air purification, sanitizing and face shields continue to be a top priority for staff members engaging with the public. Shalo is also ready to hear and address any concerns staff members may have related to opening for indoor service.

“This is a team effort,” said Shalo. “We are working in unison on the frontline. I am ready to hear any and all concerns and will take them seriously. We want people to feel comfortable until vaccines bring the change we need.”

Patrick Jacknow, owner of The Lantern Haus, at 7414 Madison St., has kept his tavern and private event space closed since mid-October. Rather than reopen as indoor dining restrictions lifted last week, he has kept the bar closed to complete an extensive remodeling project.

“Nothing has been done to this building, in the walls or cosmetically, for decades,” he said.

“The place needs it and now we are getting it done.”

Jacknow is in the process of gutting the bar area and replumbing the bathrooms. Moving the bar back will create more standing room in The Lantern Haus and a small unused cooking area has been removed to create a cozy fireplace corner.

ADA-compliant stalls are being added to each bathroom to make The Lantern Haus more accessible for people with physical disabilities.

“The tavern will be in a good place to reopen in April,” said Jacknow. “We’re cleaning it up and made it prettier. In this business it is rare to have a moment when you can pump the brakes.

We’re using the pandemic to make lemonade out of lemons.”

He plans to ease into indoor service gradually by opening his second-floor private event space in three weeks for safe, compliant events.

“I am tired of paying the mortgage on this property out of pocket,” said Jacknow, “but we’re going to make it through this. Everybody should keep their heads up.”

Forest Park Review, February 10, 2021

Committee to accept village admin resumes through Feb. 12 Final interviews to be conducted in March

By MARIA MAXHAM Editor

ALTENHEIM DEMO Contract awarded from page 5 done and what protections the village has if the work, specifically the environmental abatement, predicted to be the most timeintensive part of the project, isn’t handled correctly.

In a letter to the village regarding the bids, CBBEL said they had “completed full evaluations and performed reference checks on the three lowest responsive bidders” and “all three low bidders appear qualified to perform this work.”

At the village council meeting on Feb. 9, Jim Amelio, on behalf of CBBEL, said the engineering firm will have someone overseeing and managing the entire project. If a subcontractor isn’t doing the work or demolition properly, it will be brought to the general contractor’s attention and remedied, Amelio assured the council.

A planning meeting, which will include a schedule of when the work will be done, is set for Feb. 11. According to Steve Glinke, director of public health and safety for the village, that meeting will include the village and KLF, but it will also include representatives from the Altenheim senior living home and residents from The Grove.

“We want the stakeholders at the table when we present our expectations to the contractor,” Glinke said. “There’s going to be a lot of eyes on this project.”

The intergovernmental agreement for the grant was approved at the Jan. 25 village council meeting, but not without reservations from Save the Forest Park Green Space, a group of Forest Park residents who submitted a letter read during public comment. The group also submitted 27 pages of hand-signed signatures and 173 online signatures, for a total of 535 signatures, on a petition regarding the future use of the Altenheim land. The petition reads, “As a resident or business owner in Forest Park, I support dedicating the property south of the Altenheim Senior Living Community as a contiguous green space. … We believe the community deserves a say in the future of the property,” read the letter, in part. Read the full letter in the Opinion section.

The village administrator search committee is receiving resumes until Feb. 12, though they have discussed the possibility of extending that date if they aren’t satisfied with the quantity or quality of applicants.

At a public meeting on Jan. 28, the committee discussed the next steps in the process of finding a replacement for Tim Gillian, who is staying on temporarily despite his plan to retire at the end of January.

The search committee is made up of Mayor Rory Hoskins, Commissioners Joe Byrnes and Jessica Voogd, Bridget Lane, co-chair of Forest Park Chamber of Commerce’s economic development committee, and Vanessa Moritz, village clerk and human resources manager.

All resumes will be provided to all members of the village council, including Commissioners Dan Novak and Ryan Nero, who are not on the committee. Once all resumes are received and the application window closed, the committee will rank the resumes to decide who to call in for preliminary interviews. Hoskins said, as a ballpark figure, he thinks the group should screen candidates and “ultimately recommend somewhere between seven and 10 for interviews.”

Preliminary interviews, which will most likely be held via Zoom, will tentatively be scheduled for between Feb. 22 and 26, and final interviews in March. The final interviews will be in person if possible.

Byrnes said, “I’m the type of guy that when I’m talking to somebody, I like to look them face to face and not on a TV screen and see body language and things like that, where I can get a feeling and how the person is reacting to certain questions that are asked.”

During the meeting, Moritz said the job had been posted extensively, in sources that include the village website and Facebook page, the Illinois City/County Management Association (ILCMA)’s career page, the Illinois Municipal League, the West Central Municipal Conference, the GOV HR website, the Illinois Legislative Black Caucus, the Northwest Council of Mayors and the National Forum for Black Public Administrators.

Moritz said she also shared the job posting with some committees she’s on, such as the Northwest Cook County Clerk’s Association and the Illinois Public Employers Labor Relations Association.

According to Lane, one of her biggest

concerns about getting the word out about the village administrator position is that Forest Park isn’t a well-known town and could be confused with Park Forest.

“My concern remains that a lot of people don’t know where Forest Park is when you get out into the hinterlands, because Park Forest has such a reputation … I think that’s one of our bigger problems is just the low identity of the community.”

Lane said Voogd has concerns in a previous meeting about committee members sharing the posting because it might seem like they were promoting individual candidates for the position, but Hoskins said he isn’t worried about that.

“I don’t have any concerns about whether you appear to be promoting, because you’re not the hirer. You’re not the decider,” Hoskins said. “I’ve shared this with personal contacts of mine as well.”

Ultimately, he reminded the committee, the full village council will interview the finalists and select the next village administrator.

“I mean, that’s kind of how the market works, whether it’s public or private sector,” Hoskins said. “If you know someone who’s good for a role, you know, maybe you let the person know that there’s an opening … we want to get someone good for Forest Park.”

The committee will use an interview evaluation form from the ILCMA to help during the interview process, possibly adding or changing it to fit the particular needs of the village.

Hiring guidance from the ILCMA also suggested that the village put together an information guide about the town to provide to potential candidates, though there was minor debate about how extensive such a packet should be.

Hoskins and Byrnes seemed to feel that a determined candidate would seek out information about budgets, finances and comprehensive plans on his or her own.

Byrnes said someone very interested in the position would find ways to get the information. “They’ll be a self-starter and go look for it,” he said.

Voogd and Lane said some links to basic information, though, would at least provide a starting point for potential candidates.

“Supplying a baseline to the information I think would be helpful,” Voogd said.

“We’re talking about extensive reads.

Long documents. A lot of information …

Requiring them to jump through hurdles of finding it hidden in the nooks and crannies of our website doesn’t need to be a qualifier for employment.”

As of Feb. 6, Hoskins said the village had received about 18 resumes from candidates interested in the village administrator position.

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Forest Park Review, February 10, 2021

Man pulls boxcutter on woman

Police responded to a call of a suspicious person on the 400 block of Desplaines Avenue on Feb. 3 at 11:30 a.m. who allegedly pulled out a boxcutter on the caller.

Police located the suspect and spoke with him. He said he had a boxcutter in his pocket, and police recovered it.

He told officers that he was walking down the street when he saw a woman. He tried to talk to her, and she started to scream. At that point, he said he took out the boxcutter because he “feared for his life,” according to the police report. When asked why he was so afraid, he said, “I don’t know, man. I don’t know what she was gonna do.

She was screaming at me.”

The woman caller, however, said that she was walking down the street when the suspect approached her and started saying inappropriate things to her. She told him to “back off,” and he took out the weapon and said, “B%*#h, I’ll cut you.”

The man was cited for assault and will appear in court in March.

Subjects try to break out of locked cemetery Police responded to a call of shots fired at Forest Home Cemetery, 863 Desplaines Ave., on Feb. 3 at 5:28 p.m.

When they arrived, a man was outside the locked cemetery gates and other subjects were inside the locked cemetery. The subjects told police they had been there for the anniversary of a family member’s death, and some of them accidentally got locked inside after closing. They tried to break the lock with a 4-way lug wrench.

Although there is a sign on the cemetery gate stating police can be called if someone gets locked in, all parties present said they hadn’t seen it.

We are Open!

The subjects all denied shooting a gun when asked. One said he has a FOID card and is a CCL holder and gave officers permission to search his car. They recovered a 9 mm handgun with a full magazine.

Car stolen A car was stolen from Circle Avenue near Roosevelt Road on Feb. 2 when a woman parked her vehicle and visited a family member. Around 8:40 p.m., when returning to her car after the visit, she discovered her auto’s key fob missing from her key ring and her car no longer where she’d left it. She said it had been locked and did not contain anything of great value.

CTA trains targeted On Feb. 1, it was discovered that six trains had been vandalized by graffiti at 711 Desplaines Ave. On Feb. 6, a CTA employee at the same location witnessed two subjects spray painting a CTA train. They fled over the fence into Concordia Cemetery when confronted.

Two more train cars were discovered with graffiti on them on Feb. 7. They were located in the “south jungle,” area of the train lot, the section of track farthest west and between I-290 and the cemetery.

These items were obtained from police reports filed by the Forest Park Police Department, Feb. 1-7, and represent a portion of the incidents to which police responded. Unless otherwise indicated, anybody named in these reports has only been charged with a crime.

These cases have not been adjudicated.

Compiled by Maria Maxham

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VACCINE SITE: Triton College began distributing COVID-19 vaccines on Feb. 3.

Triton to serve as COVID-19 mass vaccination site

by MICHAEL ROMAIN Contributing Reporter

On Feb. 3, Triton College, 2000 S. 5th Ave. in River Grove, began serving as a Point of Distribution site for COVID-19 vaccinations, college officials announced on Feb. 1.

Cook County Health (CCH) will administer vaccinations Monday through Saturday by appointment only, officials explained.

“Triton College is here to serve, and this is just another example of how we fulfill our mission to serve the community,” said Mark Stephens, Chairman of the Triton College Board of Trustees. “There are different ways for a community college to serve its communities, and we take pride in meeting needs in this capacity.”

“I am pleased that Triton College can

serve as a vital resource at such a critical time,” said Mary-Rita Moore, President of Triton College.

Triton worked with Cook County and identified approximately 8,000 square feet of space on the south end of the T Building on Triton’s East Campus to use for administering vaccines.

“It has been a pleasure working with the dedicated professionals at Cook County who are working so hard to get people vaccinated,” said John Lambrecht, Triton College Associate Vice President of Facilities.

Appointments can be made at vaccine. cookcountyil.gov. Individuals without internet access or who need assistance scheduling can call 833-308-1988 (from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m., Monday through Friday).

Forest Park Review, February 10, 2021

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Feb. 10- 17

BIG WEEK Panel: How parents can support equity in their community Bringing Black History to Life: Kucha & Baba Tony Storytellers On Feb. 14 from 1 to 2:30 p.m., the Forest Park Public Library is hosting a performance by Kucha Brownlee and Baba Tony Brown, traveling artists who have performed for more than 20 years throughout the United States. They will present a general selection of diverse stories that introduces folktales, calls and response, dialect, and poetry. This presentation will be accompanied by African Drumming, shekere playing, and enhanced audience participation, which will include singing and playing instruments. Learn more at fppl.org/blackhistorymonth.

On Feb. 13 from 4 to 5 p.m., join the Forest Park Public Library youth services manager speaking with representatives from HEROS (Healing Racism in Our Schools) about their evolution from concerned parents, teachers, and community members to advocates who proved that racism didn’t have a home in their schools.

Learn more at fppl.org/events.

Virtual Speakeasy Join the Historical Society of Forest Park and O’Sullivan’s for a virtual speakeasy! Learn how to make historic (and soon to be historic) cocktails, and find out more about Forest Park’s prohibition history during this fun and interactive Zoom party. If you would like, dress the part!

Pick-up your pre-mixed historic cocktails prior to the event. Cocktail kits contain all supplies, and you can choose from the old fashioned, Manhattan, last word, aviation, monkey driver and more.

Orders must be placed by Feb. 15 and can be picked up at O’Sullivan’s, 7244 Madison St. The secret phrase is, “I am here to check in my coat.”

February Events at the Park District Don’t miss the Park District of Forest Park’s February newsletter, available now online at pdofp.org. It includes hip hop classes, senior yoga, magic lessons and more!

Children’s Animal Valentine Card Craft Pick Up Kids can create a cute animal Valentine’s Day card to give to an animal at Trailside or to someone else of their ch choice! Pick up a bag of materials at the Trailside Museum of Natural History from Thursday, Feb. 11 through Saturday, Feb. 14 between 9 a.m. and 4 p.m. The museum is at 738 Thatcher Ave. in River Forest. You must supply your own crayons, gglue and scissors.

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Forest Park Review, February 10, 2021

PROUD TO PARTNER WITH THE FOREST PARK CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

Feeling the love in Forest Park Celebrate Valentine’s Day in traditional and creative ways on Madison Street

Pay attention lovebirds, Forest Park has everything you need to play Cupid on Feb. 14. No matter if you want to keep things supremely traditional or especially creative the artisans, bakers, tavern owners and restaurateurs on Madison Street have put passion into creating special products for the upcoming lovey-dovey holiday.

Expect to be covered in kisses if you choose to gift any of these thoughtful ValFood Writer entine’s Day treats to the loves in your life!

Keep things traditional and treat yourself or someone you care about to a box of artisan chocolates from La Maison de Bon Bon. The boutique chocolate shop, 7353 Madison St., is a tiny jewel box of a store with room for just a few shoppers at a time. In addition to the silky smooth original French Crème confections they have been whipping up since 1921, La Maison de Bon also offers traditional dark or milk chocolate assortments boasting pink, red and white decorations for Valentine’s Day. Additionally, the shop sells bottles of wine with a quartet of

MELISSA ELSMO

chocolates, house-made caramel, and chocolate dipping sauces, as well as vanilla butter creams, caramel coated popcorn, and peanut butter cups. How sweet is that?

Joe Sullivan, owner of Duffy’s Tavern, 7513 W. Madison St. in Forest Park, is bringing a creative cocktail twist to Valentine’s Day. The wellloved tavern is offering tasting of five whiskey and chocolate pairings in limited quantities and promises loads of delicious fun with every sip and sample. Each combination will allow bourbon connoisseurs and chocolate lovers to come together to experience some intriguing and powerful taste sensations.

Look for a French single malt to pair swimmingly with an intense dark chocolate to evoke the flavor of a cherry cordial and a powerful orange punch in another pair featuring a readily available whiskey. The tasting is designed to be shared and is available via curbside service and must be pre-ordered through Duffy’s website by Feb. 12 and will likely sell out.

“I’ve made heart shaped pizzas a special feature at Jimmy’s Place for Valentine’s Day this year,” said Jimmy Jodoin, owner of Jimmy’s Place, 7411 W. Madison St. The Italian eatery serves up loads of classic dishes, but Jodoin is particularly proud of his pizza. Cooked in a 75-year-old pizza oven every pie, from crust to sauce, is crafted with house-made ingredients and topped with top quality cheeses, meats and veggies. There is no sugar in the sauce at Jimmy’s place, but their pizza is made with Alla Cucina tomatoes and a lot of heart. And now the Forest Park main-

From left: Joana Fisher, owner of Twisted Cookie and her team members including Patricia Bahena and Susan Sawyer have an array of confections ready for you to fall in love with.

Show some love for your Valentine with heart-shaped red velvet cookies from Twisted Cookie in Forest Park.

all photos by Melissa Elsmo

The dark chocolate assortment from La Masion de Bon Bon features flourishes in shades of pink and red.

Valentine’s Day treats are plentiful at La Maison de Bon Bon.

Forest Park Review, February 10, 2021

Joe Sullivan’s whiskey and chocolate tasting is a Valentine’s Day treat available from Duffy’s Tavern via pre-order. stay is putting a family spin on a traditionally romantic holiday by serving up 16-inch heart shaped pizzas on Valentine’s weekend. Simply request a heart shaped pie when placing your order — there is no additional charge for the festive shape.

Joana Fischer, head baker and owner of Twisted Cookie, 7401 Madison St., has an assortment of creative Valentine’s Day treats ready to go. You can taste the love in every bite of her red velvet heart-shaped sandwich cookies filled with fluffy cream cheese frosting.

Twisted Cookie is also presenting generously sized cake sticks decorated to honor the holiday. Vanilla or chocolate cake slices are topped with decadent whipped chocolate ganache and dipped in a chocolate coating before being em-

blazoned with messages of love or sprinkled with red candy hearts.

Double decker chocolate chip cookies large enough to feed several folks are stuffed with peanut butter whipped ganache making them an ideal finish to any family-friendly Valentine’s Day celebration. Pre-orders are encouraged at Twisted Cookie, though Fischer welcomes walk-in customers anytime.

Say cheers to love in Forest Park! *All food credited to Melissa Elsmo was ordered via carry-out and plated at home.

photo by Gil Rangel

Jimmy’s Place is offering heart shaped pizzas on Valentine’s Day weekend.

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Forest Park Review, February 10, 2021

D91 BACK TO SCHOOL Hybrid, phased approach from page 1 White and Field Stevenson, third graders returned, and at the middle school, sixth graders were in the classrooms.

Next week, the second youngest students at each school will return: first, fourth and seventh grades. And on the Feb. 22, grades two, five and eight will be back at school.

In-person classes are being held three mornings a week, on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays. And students whose families have opted to continue remote learning will learn via Zoom along with the kids at school, who will also be on their Chrome books, in an effort to ensure all the students are learning the same material.

Parents were surveyed and given a choice whether to have their children continue learning remotely or begin the hybrid approach, and in a recent memo to parents, Cavallo said the responses were about evenly split.

“Based upon the last survey our school community is evenly split between inperson and remote learning, which is why District 91 is taking a cautious, phased-in approach to bringing students and teachers back into our school buildings,” Cavallo wrote in the Jan. 29 memo to parents.

Rebecca Vnuk, who has two sons in the

keep them home.

“I’m incredibly privileged to work from home on my own schedule, so I can accommodate them staying home,” Vnuk said.

“I’m not comfortable exposing the teachers and staff to in-person teaching just yet. I wish we were farther along in vaccinations; then I think I’d feel a lot better about in-person.”

Natasha Gittings, parent of a 4th grader in the district, decided to send her daughter back for in-person classes. She also plans to send her high schooler back to Proviso Math and Science Academy when it opens back up.

Photo by Scott Dunnell “They miss routine, school and getting out DAILY CHECK: Lauren Marshall takes George Ryder’s temperaof the house,” Gittings ture at Garfield School on Feb. 8. said. “They are really good with masks and district, said their family has opted to constaying safe.”

She added that the park distinue with remote learning for now. trict and community center have been ac“They’re doing fine academically, and we commodating children, and as far as she are lucky that they don’t seem to have any knows, there has been no increase in transissues socially,” Vnuk said. She said her mission at either location as a result. schedule allows her to have the choice to “Teachers are getting vaccinated, so that

s c i t i l o All P !

L A C is LO

helps too,” said Gittings, a nurse who has been working in a hospital throughout the pandemic.

“I am still nervous at times,” she said.

“We can take this one day at a time.”

Masks are required for anyone entering the school buildings, including students, teachers, and staff. Tables have been replaced with desks to maintain social distancing. Parents must fill out a daily symptom screener form, and temperatures are checked prior to entry to school buildings.

The guidelines are outlined in the District 91 COVID Handbook, available on the district’s website at d91.org.

Cavallo said the district is following all CDC and IDPH guidelines to keep students and staff safe. Custodians are working hard to keep classrooms, hallways and restrooms clean and sanitized.

“The vaccine may be here, but we are certainly not out of the woods yet, which is why it is so important to continue to practice safe distancing, wash your hands and wear a mask,” Cavallo wrote.

Teachers, said Cavallo, are preparing to educate children in a hybrid environment, “working not only with students in the classroom but also with those who will continue to learn remotely. Hybrid learning is not a perfect solution, but we will do our best to provide a quality learning experience for every child in District 91 remote and in person. We know our students are anxious to get back in the classroom.”

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Forest Park Review, February 10, 2021

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Is the stimulus check stimulating anything?

Residents discuss what they’re doing with that $600

By TOM HOLMES Contributing Reporter

$5M in infrastructure projects planned for 2021 Total includes Altenheim demolition and more water main work

By MARIA MAXHAM Editor

Proposed infrastructure projects for the village of Forest Park for 2021 include just over $5M in improvements, according to a presentation by Jim Amelio of Christopher B. Burke Engineering, Ltd. (CBBEL), village engineer, at the council meeting on Feb. 8.

Most of the projects will be on the north side of town, though 2020 saw many improvements on the south side, including the Circle Avenue sewer separation and street resurfacing, a $4.4M project in itself, funded by a combination of grants and TIF money.

Amelio said during the meeting that priority for projects such as water main replacement or street resurfacing are done based on how badly repairs are needed. Five years ago, he said, CBBEL did a full village assessment, driving down all alleys and streets.

“We did a very simplistic reading: good, average, fair and poor,” Amelio said. “The ‘poor’ streets we tried to work into the five-year plan.” The same applied to water mains. “We worked with the water department, consulted with them, identified where their frequent breaks are … and came up with prioritizing certain streets to get water mains.”

And, over time, some projects got moved up or down in the order depending on need.

In 2021, the south side will see 14th Street resurfaced and the south water tower painted.

On the north side, projects include more water main and street work, demolition of the Altenheim buildings, construction of the Van Buren Street path, repaving of the parking lot across from village hall, resurfacing of Jackson Boulevard between Madison Street and Desplaines Ave., and painting of the north water tower.

The total $5,053,000 projected to be spent on these projects is broken down into the following funding sources: $755,500 from VIP; $530,000 from motor fuel tax; $770,000 from the water fund; $1,800,000 from TIF funding; and $1,197,500 from grants.

Those $600 checks many of us received recently are sometimes referred to as a “stimulus” and sometimes as “relief.” The Review approached a random assortment of 30 people last week to learn if those who received the unexpected windfall are spending it to support local businesses, to pay their own bills or something else.

One homeowner in the area made a purchase with his $600 which was both timely and a help to the local economy. “I used my stimulus check,” he said, “to buy a snowblower ($645.00), which came in handy with the last snowfall.”

“We are putting our stimulus money,” said one homeowner, “toward a kitchen remodel using a local contractor.”

“Our furnace died so we had to replace it,” said a middle-age professional who added, sardonically, “Really fun!”

An owner of a condo on Madison Street said she and her husband were using the check to buy a couch.

Many who responded to the survey said they were doing multiple things with the money like buying something for their home and giving some of it to a charity.

One young professional, for example, said, “My $600 will be used for many different small interests such as updating my condo, investing, supporting local businesses, and saving!”

A retired man who has lived in town for 40 years said that he was putting $400 toward a new stove, giving $60 to his church and spending $140 on take-out from local restaurants.

A 60-year-old homeowner said, “I’m using $65 to repair luggage at a local small business, $360 toward my condo, and I haven’t decided what to do with the remaining $175.”

A couple, who have been in their own apartment for three months after being homeless for several years, said they were using half of their two checks to buy household items like a vacuum cleaner and drapes, and investing half in a small business they are starting.

A retired lady who lives in a condo building on Marengo said, “After I received the stimulus check, I donated half of it to different charities such as the Greater Food Depository of Chicago, the Salvation Army, UNICEF USA, and Shriner’s Hospital for Children. The rest, I bought food and other essentials for myself.”

One small business owner on Madison Street said he is putting the whole amount into his business.

Some Republican senators object to President Biden’s $1.9 trillion relief package by saying that it is not targeted

enough. From our small sample they seem to have a point. Five respondents are saving their money, which seems to indicate that they do not need it right away.

One man, an accountant, is putting it toward an early mortgage principle payment, another is depositing it in his trust, and another is putting it in savings Two are depositing the money in college saving funds for their kids. One man who works for an airline said, “I’m saving all stimulus checks because I figure at some time, Uncle Sam will take it back at tax return, with interest (lol).”

Five in the random survey said they don’t need the money themselves, so they are giving it away. One woman said, “I have been buying gift certificates from local businesses that have pickup or delivery. I’m also using our local restaurant delivery service. Contributing to charities far and wide, like our food bank and Friendly Water for the World, one of my favorite international efforts.”

Two women are giving the whole amount to local food pantries.

A couple who live in town said, “We gave $500 to Housing Forward and $500 to Beyond Hunger. We also set up a monthly $10 donation to each.”

Others are giving it away to family members. One retired lady said she is giving her $600 to her son who lost his job eight months ago. Another said, “I’m putting this money toward having my niece’s 97-year-old house rewired. It is not in Forest Park where the building code would never have allowed this, but the house has a combination of conduit, Romex, BX, and knob-and-tube wiring. I will sleep better knowing her home is safer, and the money will go to a small-business person.”

Several used the check to dig themselves out of financial holes. A Forest Park resident with a white collar job said he was going to use the $600 to pay off credit card debt.

“The stimulus,” said a 30-something professional who had been unemployed till recently, “is going straight to bills during these uncertain times.”

A retired longtime resident said he was using the money to pay doctor bills. A professional who had been laid off from a job at a nonprofit months ago said, “That $600 was spent before I got it. It paid bills that otherwise would have gone unpaid.”

Only one of the people surveyed said her income was over the limit to receive the money. Two said they did not yet know what they would do with it, and one said he was using it to move.

“I am using it,” he said, “to help me move to another state. The next stimulus check will be the capstone on the fund that I need.” That for sure will not stimulate the local economy.

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Forest Park Review, February 10, 2021

S P O N S O R E D

Creative program benefits restaurants and residents in Elmwood Park Elmwood Park government launches creative voucher program to fuel local economy “Small businesses like restaurants are the backbone of our local economy,” said Elmwood Park Village President Angelo “Skip” Saviano. “We are proud of our reputation as a dining destination and we are doing everything we can to support these small businesses during these unprecedented times.”

It is no secret The Village of Elmwood Park understands the value of supFood Writer porting the broad array of eateries situated on “restaurant row” or nestled on “the circle.”

Investing in additional parking, hosting boisterous food festivals, and relentlessly promoting menu specials has helped to

MELISSA ELSMO

make Elmwood Park a dining destination.

And now, creative thinking on the part of village leadership has resulted in the Elmwood Park Eats voucher program designed to benefit both residents and restaurants.

“Restaurants have been hit particularly hard during the pandemic,” said Saviano.

“And they are among our most important businesses, so we’ve worked hard to come up with innovative ways to support them.”

As part of the innovative program, all Elmwood Park residents will receive $5 vouchers good for use on a purchase of $15 or more at participating restaurants. In addition to driving much-needed business to local dining establishments, the vouchers aim to reward residents for their commitment to help slow the spread of COVID-19 in the community and aid in stretching a family dollar farther in the local economy.

“Our hope is that these dining vouchers will also provide relief to our residents, many of whom have struggled during the pandemic,” said Saviano. “The vouchers can be used like cash to buy a meal for the family at one of our local restaurants.”

In a letter sent to residents Saviano encourages community members to use the vouchers to support a new restaurant or indulge in a restaurant meal on a weeknight.

Twenty-four restaurants are participating in the program including local favorites peddling Cuban tostones, Japanese maki rolls, vibrant burrito bowls and indulgent

Keep it traditional with a barbecue roast beef sandwich from Russell’s on Thatcher Ave.

C O N T E N T

The Alpine: The popular North Avenue food shop is participating in the Elmwood Park Eats voucher program.

Satisfying Sushi: Elmwood Park cornerstone, New Star, at 7444 W North Ave, is participating in the voucher program, but anyone from any community can take advantage of their high value lunch specials like this maki roll meal.

Forest Park Review, February 10, 2020

An array of colorful dishes from Gringo and Blondie on North Ave. in Elmwood Park. cheeseburgers.

Residents would do well to use a voucher when purchasing an 18-inch Alpine sub, brimming with ham, salami and capicollo, and a pound of colorful primavera pasta salad from the eponymous food shop at 7538 W. North Ave. Alternatively, a hungry resident could use a voucher to add a bowl of chili to their next order at Russell’s Barbecue, 1621 N. Thatcher Ave. Russell’s has been a mainstay in Elmwood Park since 1930 — they serve charming nostalgia in every sandwich and honor their rich history with every slice of brisket slathered in their signature cinnamon-forward sauce, but a bowl of their savory chili is a delightful winter treat.

Stopping by Burger Moovment 7512 W. North Ave., is another option to make the most of having an extra $5 to spend on a restaurant meal. Adding on an all-American burger like the Classic Moov, topped with American Cheese, Lettuce, Tomato, Pickles, Ketchup, Mustard, Mayonnaise on a soft, yet sturdy brioche bun can be a downright economical indulgence.

There are practically endless options to satiate just about any craving in Elmwood Park and village officials are working to ensure the future success of their valued collection of restaurants by making an investment in them today. Their relentless support of bakeries, bars, breakfast cafes and restaurants is reflected in the fact the voucher program is offered at no-cost to participating restaurants. Leaders are excited to see how widely the vouchers are utilized within the community and may consider opening the program to surrounding communities in the future.

“Friends and neighbors want to support their local businesses,” said Saviano. “Our residents have really stepped up over the last year and we are glad to be able to help in any way possible.”

7350 W. Grand Avenue, Elmwood Park

*All food items were ordered via carry out and plated at home.

All photos, Melissa Elsmo

WE KNOW EGGSACTLY WHAT YOU WANT All egg dishes are made with free range, USDA organic, non GMO fresh eggs from our local Farmers!

Looking for an all-American meal? Carry out the classic Moov from Burger Moovment in Elmwood Park.

16 Conti Pkwy • Elmwood Park • 708.395.5007

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Forest Park Review, February 10, 2021

OPINION O U R

L

V I E W

Back to school, with care

et’s start by agreeing there is no right answer to reopening elementary schools in the middle of a worldwide pandemic. But with a bit of trial and error, push and pushback, Forest Park’s District 91 schools have partially reopened classrooms beginning this week.

It will be a gradual process of adding grade levels to the opening plan in the coming weeks. The youngest children in each grade center began to return on Feb. 8. It will be gradual as classroom hours are limited to three mornings per week. And it will be gradual because the district has wisely and inevitably offered families the options of a return to classrooms or sticking with full remote learning at this time. Fascinating that the choice made by families is almost exactly 50-50 on a return to in-person learning.

In addition, to attempt to keep students on the same learning path, classroom instruction will continue to be observed by inperson students on their school-issued computers.

Seems odd. And seemingly everyone agrees that it is imperfect in a year where imperfect looks better than most alternatives.

This has been a good job by the school administration and board, by teachers and their leadership, by the community center and park district which continue to serve families of essential workers, and, overall, for our families facing near total disruption since students were last in class back in April 2020.

With masks and social distancing built in, with custodial staff cleansing the buildings frequently, with, hopefully, vaccines coming soon for teachers, this can work.

Forward on infrastructure

Despite COVID-19, despite its impact on village finances, even without a full-time administrator, Forest Park will move forward with $5 million in infrastructure investments during 2021.

That’s good. And it is possible because village government has done a good job over five years in crafting an annual capital improvement plan, in finding dedicated revenue streams to help foot the bill, and then just sticking with it.

The construction season ahead will see demolition at the Altenheim of derelict buildings on village-owned property. Been waiting a long while for state funding to come through for that project. Focused this year on the north end of the village, work will include water main replacements, street work, a walking/ biking path on Van Buren and, happily, the repainting of both the north and the south water towers.

Forest Park, like other small communities, had a catch-ascatch-can approach to infrastructure for a long time. That doesn’t work in an aging community where water and sewer are aging, where streets need perpetual attention. While the amount spent annually is still inadequate, it is being spent with purpose and forethought.

A

Game over

t the beginning of this pandemic five or six years ago, I invented a game called “Quarantingo.” It was an effort to sorta breezily note that we were all having some common experiences despite all of us simultaneously getting increasingly tired of the pandemic we had thought would last maybe three weeks.

A cute little game: 25 squares with things in them like “touched face in dismay after touching face” and “made sourdough starter.” Remember how much younger we all were then?

We’re well into a new game now, and the new game is called “Six Feet Apart.”

It’s an open-world game, where you can go on missions if you want, or you can just kinda explore, or a little of both.

It’s a game of movement and strategy rather than violence, and it requires a lot of focus and concentration. Let me give you a playable example.

Mission: Go to Whole Foods, buy two jalapenos, an onion, a package of chicken thighs, ice cream, and come home.

Most games have a mission like this, a suuuuuuuuper basic mission I can complete on autopilot. No thinking. Just knock it out when I have a spare half-hour, racking up the points and making sure my life force is topped up.

Not Six Feet Apart: Six Feet Apart turns this mission into a suspense thriller.

Watch: First I have to decide if I want to walk.

Pros of walking: Exercise, virtue.

Cons of walking: Will have to put on a mask indoors to get groceries, and that means I also have to wear it to walk home because the humidity inside the mask will turn to beardcicles upon outdoor removal. I consider driving.

Pros of driving: Climate control.

Cons of driving: Lazy. Moral choices confronted before I have taken one step as Player One. I told you this game was focus-intensive.

Now I’m about to go into the store. Again, I should

be able to do this on autopilot. My focus should be on singing “The Monkey Song” in my head at top volume and trying to remember the brand of toothpaste mentioned therein. Instead, I have to make choices. I have to plan my route. I have to be watching the other players closely, lest they not be observant of mask niceties or spacing.

It is not entirely unlike Pac-Man, except there is an unending parade of ghosts forever. The produce section is also not spacious, so there’s a lot of evasive action, which gives me time to think about what the other players will think if I do or don’t pick up my peppers and onions with plastic bags like I was cleaning up after the dog.

Then I get to the butcher counter. I have to stand behind a line that puts me right in the flow of foot traffic and have a conversation about chicken with someone who is on the other side of the counter in a noisy room with a high ceiling and wearing a mask that obscures their mouth. I don’t hear well, so often I just wind up shouting “Thank You” in response to any questions.

Next we’re off to the frozen aisle, where to my absolute horror you can see people’s breath on the glass. I don’t need graphic reminders of how aerosolization works, thank you. I have to evade breathing people, opening-and-closing doors, who reach around other breathing people in socially-distant checkout lines while holding my breath to get a pint of Jeni’s, then retreat, get in the shortest and most pandemic-responsible looking line, pay someone who is standing behind what looks like hastilyerected bulletproof glass that is also completely impenetrable to sound, and get home before my ice cream melts.

I’m tired just thinking about it, which is weird because this is a thing I used to do a couple times a week. So if you are unaccountably exhausted all the time, maybe you too have been playing Six Feet Apart.

ALAN

BROUILETTE

advertise • 708-524-8300

Forest Park Review, February 10, 2021

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L E T T E R S

Our Community Needs Community Journalism It’s not just about crime reports and board meetings. We also need inspiring, funny, heartwarming and, at times, heartbreaking stories about our friends, neighbors and children. Perhaps now, more than ever.

Let's build community!

Read and Support the Forest Park Review.

Petition shows support for green space The Save the Green Space Facebook group submitted a petition to the Forest Park Village Council at its Jan. 25 meeting, expressing concerns as follows: “As a resident or business owner in Forest Park, I support dedicating the property south of the Altenheim Senior Living Community as a contiguous green space.”

The petition contained 535 signatures, which demonstrates considerable support for the wish to keep the South Altenheim area green.

Thanks to everybody who participated in the process.

The Green Space group does not believe the village has secret final plans for the Altenheim property. Nor is the group antidevelopment. However, we believe that the planning process has begun with the grant application for the demolition of the old structures, including the requirement that a mixed-use development take place somewhere on the property. We applaud the village’s efforts to obtain the funds necessary to demolish the existing structures.

This brings us to the timing of the petitions that were submitted.

The purpose behind the petition as well as the numerous public comments submitted at the village council meeting is to keep the issue in the public forum and to demonstrate that the residents wish to be kept informed and involved regarding the process.

The 535 signatures supporting the petition provides the village council with a good sense as to what many of our residents would like to see happen as the village proceeds with plans for the Altenheim property.

Ralph DiFebo

Save the Green Space

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Growing Community Media NFP is a 501(c)3 not-for-profit organization

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Forest Park Review, February 10, 2021

Angels answer the call Community responds after cancer diagnosis of Brookfield florist and Forest Park resident

By BOB UPHUES Senior Editor

Even the COVID-19 pandemic couldn’t put a crimp in the holiday shopping season over at Christopher Mark Fine Flowers on Grand Boulevard in downtown Brookfield. As last December dawned, owner Chris Borzym had shrugged off the cancellation of the village’s annual holiday celebration and a blowout party for the shop’s 15th anniversary.

“We were having a great December and holiday season,” said Borzym, whose “anniversary bouquets,” sold on the weekends, proved to be a hit. “It was so fun and we were having so many customers coming in.”

Everything changed on the morning of Dec. 19. Borzym awoke at 3:30 a.m. with severe pain in his abdomen and lower back.

Three hours later, Borzym’s husband, Jim Deacon, drove him from their Forest Park home to the Rush Oak Park Hospital emergency room.

Many hours later, he underwent surgery to relieve a urinary tract blockage, but the news was worse than that. Doctors also informed the 62-yearold Borzym that he had Stage 4 prostate cancer, and it had metastasized into his skull, spine and the lymph nodes in his neck.

Borzym said followup visits to his oncologist have been hopeful. While he’ll be on medication from here on out, his doctors believe he has many years of good quality life ahead.

“Jim and I are thinking 15 to 20,” Borzym said, after a recent positive trip to the oncologist. “We’re just going to fight it, tooth and nail.”

A medical emergency was not something Borzym had planned for. Since leaving his job 15 years ago as an aide at RiversideBrookfield High School, Borzym’s health insurance policy has been a basic one.

After all, Borzym, who was also the cheerleading coach for 17 years at RBHS, had always been hale and hearty.

“I never looked back on [deciding to go with a basic insurance policy],” Borzym

said. “There was no clue, no sign there was anything wrong with me physically.”

As Borzym recovered from the surgery the week before Christmas – with a busy flower shop in holiday overdrive – the cavalry arrived – with family and friends taking on everything from flower design to deliveries. Now an online fundraiser is making sure Borzym and Deacon can cope with the medical bills that are starting to mount.

Last week, three of Borzym’s customers who have become close friends, Mary Vyskocil, Anne Kissel and Rosemary Lynch, launched a GoFundMe page, named “Calling All Angels” to raise the money. Initially, they set the goal at $25,000, but within just a couple of days more than 300 contributors had blown past that amount.

“We’re still floored. My husband, Jim, and I don’t know the words to describe it. It’s unbelievable, it’s so frickin’ humbling. One never knows the impact they have on a community. The outpouring of love and support has been amazing.”

Vyskocil said she credits Borzym with her friendship with Lynch. Both were regular customers at the flower shop and would

run into each other there so regularly they struck up a rapport. Kissel was also a Christopher Mark fan who was friends with Lynch.

“Every Saturday we’d get coffee and go talk to Chris,” Vyskocil said.

After learning about Borzym’s diagnosis and insurance situation, the women approached him about how they could help and suggested the GoFundMe. “When someone is in need of help around here, everyone wants to help in some way,” Vyskocil said. “The GoFundMe was one way people feel they can make some type of contribution.”

Vyskocil said she’s been overwhelmed by the response. The page, which can be found online at tinyurl.com/qxmyx3nj, went live Feb. 2, posted first by Borzym’s daughter,

ALEX ROGALS/Staff Photographer

SO MUCH SUPPORT: Forest Park resident Chris Borzym (right) and his husband Jim Deacon are grateful for the support they received following Borzym’s cancer diagnosis.

Sarah, on Facebook. The community quickly responded.

As of the morning of Feb. 9, the page had raised $38,350 from more than 400 donations, and the contributions are being funneled directly into a special account Borzym has set up to pay healthcare costs.

“It’s like the movie ‘It’s a Wonderful Life,’” Vyskocil said.

“I told him, ‘You’re the richest man in town.’ And it had nothing to do with us, it’s all about him.”

The GoFundMe also got a boost from Borzym’s longtime friend Marcey Raymond Kusper, a Brookfield resident who runs the Brookfield Connections group on Facebook, which has more than 11,000 members.

She is also the mom of Maxx Kusper, the 11-year-old Brookfield boy who was critically injured last March when he was struck by a train while crossing the Prairie Avenue crossing.

Borzym, who did the flowers for Marcey’s wedding as well as those for her two sisters, was among those who helped raise awareness and funds for the family as Maxx made a remarkable recovery in the following months.

“Maxx’s story has been an inspiration to me,” Borzym said.

The financial support is important not only for the medical expenses. With the pandemic shutting down business completely for a time last spring, Borzym said he has put any profits in 2020 back into the business.

“I haven’t been paid since last March,” Borzym said. “Since then, we’ve been living on Jim’s retirement income. We really can’t

afford to go into our savings.”

The GoFundMe campaign has been just a part of the outpouring of support Borzym and his business has received and continues to receive.

Although Borzym himself is back at the flower shop, he finds himself tiring more quickly, so he’s only there half a day in the morning. His employee since 2012, designer Klaryse Ellis holds down the fort in the afternoons.

“It’s been a nightmare for Chris, but all the believers are coming through for him,” Ellis said. “I’m doing everything I can to help him out and trying to remain positive.”

The week before Christmas was an allhands-on-deck affair, said Borzym. Longtime friend Eileen Piper-Simpson, who is an assistant principal of an elementary school in Berwyn as well as a flower designer, and her daughter, Maggie, came to the shop after the school day ended.

His sister, Kim Borzym and sister-in-law Jeannie Jaeger, worked the front of the shop, assisting customers, and Borzym’s friend Jimmy Johnson and nephew Ryce Borzym made deliveries.

“It was amazing the amount of work they did.”

The Witken family of North Riverside, whose child Borzym coached on the RBHS cheerleading team, has dropped off two dozen meals for Chris and Jim at their home.

And as the Valentine’s Day rush approaches, Sharon Flaim is bringing in a crew from her events business Catherine’s Community Closet to help out at the shop.

Borzym has kept a journal on a website called Caring Bridge, where he’s posted photos, updates on his treatment, well wishes from friends and family and a poem he wrote called “My Cancer, My It” – his pledge to fight the disease -- which he reads every day for the mental boost it provides him.

Kissel was instrumental in setting up the account for Borzym.

“We’re going to make it work,” Borzym said. “It’s onward and upward. We don’t allow any negativity.”

Forest Park Review, February 10, 2021 New local ads this week

YOUR WEEKLY AD

REACHES SIX SUBURBAN COMMUNITIES: OAK PARK, RIVER FOREST, FOREST PARK, BROOKFIELD, RIVERSIDE, NORTH RIVERSIDE, AND PARTS OF CHICAGO

WEDNESDAY

CLASSIFIED

17

HOURS: 9:00 A.M.– 5:00 P.M. MON–FRI

Deadline is Monday at 5:00 p.m.

Please Check Your Ad: The publisher will not be responsible for more than one incorrect insertion.

Wednesday Journal Classified must be notified before the second insertion.

The newspaper reserves the right to edit or reject any advertisement.

Place your ad online anytime at: www.ForestParkReview.com/Classified/

BY PHONE: (708) 613-3333 | BY FAX: (708) 467-9066 | BY E-MAIL: CLASSIFIEDS@FORESTPARKREVIEW.COM HELP WANTED

HELP WANTED

CITY RENTALS DELUXE 3BR APT 5955 W HURON First Floor. Large kitchen, all electric appliances. Near West Suburban Hospital. Near all public trans. $1150/mo.

Call 773-637-8677 for appt.

YOUTH DEVELOPMENT SPECIALIST HEPHZIBAH CHILDREN’S ASSOCIATION PART TIME POSITIONS AVAILABLE The program will follow the safety Hephzibah Children’s Association guidelines of the IDPH regarding is a renowned social service agenface masks, social distancing and cy in Oak Park, IL that has been cleaning & disinfecting. helping children thrive and families Requirements include: flourish through innovative community-based programs.

• Minimum of 6 semester hours in education, recreation, social work, The Day Care Program is accepting or related college courses applications for February – June, • Experience working with children 2021 school year. We seek individuals to provide care and supervision If you are interested please contact: of 5-11-year-old children. Positions are Monday through Friday from Amy O’Rourke, Director of Day Care by email at: 12:15 – 6:00 pm. aorrouke@hephzibahhome.org include letter of interest and resume.

Responsibilities include assisting with and monitoring e-learning, suHephzibah Children’s Association is pervising arts and crafts, activities, an equal opportunity employer. We sports, group games, and indoor welcome qualified applicants from and outdoor play, lunch and snack, all backgrounds to apply. We value, and homework help. advocate for and support diversity throughout our organization. We The program begins in February embrace a respectful, multicultural, and will be in Oak Park, IL serving environment for employees and the 5-11-year-old (K-5th grade) chilclients we serve. dren.

HELP WANTED DEPUTY FIRE CHIEF OF EMS & INFECTIOUS DISEASE The Village of Oak Park is seeking qualified candidates for the position of Deputy Fire Chief of EMS & Infectious Disease in the Fire Department. This position will direct, manage, supervise, and coordinate the programs and activities of the Fire Department’s Emergency Medical Services and Infectious Disease Division; to coordinate assigned activities with other Village departments, divisions, and outside agencies; and to provide highly responsible and complex administrative support to the Fire Chief and Public Health Director when assigned. Applicants are encouraged to visit the Village of Oak Park’s website at http://www. oak-park.us/jobs. First review of applications will be February 21, 2021.

FIRE MARSHALL The Village of Oak Park is seeking qualified candidates for the position of Fire Marshal with the Oak Park Fire Department This position will manage, supervise, and coordinate the activities and operations of the Fire Prevention Bureau. Asist in the development, implementation, and coordination of various programs within the Bureau. Applicants are encouraged to visit the Village of Oak Park’s website at http://www. oak-park.us/jobs. First review of applications will be February 26, 2021.

SENIOR SERVICES SENIOR SERVICES At We All Care Home Care Agency we offer in home care services in senior. We make sure you or your family member safe and comfortable in their home. We assistant with cooking, cleaning, transportation, assistant with vitals, Medication reminder and much more. Feel free to call 773-827-4543 Lost & Found, Items for Sale, and To Be Given Away ads run free in Wednesday Classified. To place your ad, call 708-613-3342

OFFICE & RETAIL SPACE FOR RENT RIVER FOREST–7777 Lake St. * 1116 sq. ft. * 1400 sq. ft. Dental Office RIVER FOREST–7756 Madison St. * 960 sq. ft.

OAK PARK–6142-44 Roosevelt Rd. * 3 & 5 room office suites FOREST PARK–7736 Madison St. *2500 sq. ft. unit Strand & & Browne Strand Browne 708-488-0011 708-488-0011

SUBURBAN RENTALS

ELECTRICAL Ceiling Fans Installed

A&A ELECTRIC

Let an American Veteran do your work

We install plugs for battery-operated vehicles We fix any electrical problem and do small jobs We install Surge Protectors • Home Re-wiring • New Plugs & Switches Added • New circuit breaker boxes • Code violations corrected Service upgrades,100-200 amp • Garage & A/C lines installed Fast Emergency Service | Residential • Commercial • Industrial Free Home Evaluations | Lic. • Bonded • Ins. • Low Rates • Free Est.

708-409-0988 • 708-738-3848 Sr. Discounts • 30 Yrs. Exp. Servicing Oak Park • All surrounding suburbs • Chicago area

CEMETERY PLOTS 4 FOREST HOME CEMETERY PLOTS 4 Forest Home cemetery plots available together or separately. Easy access and exit, in desirable Garden Sec. 61, Lot 342-A spaces 1,2,3,4. $1650 each, transfer costs not included.

Call 847-468-0013 and leave message

WANTED TO BUY

FLOORS

OAK PARK: ROOSEVELT/ OAK PARK AVE. CORRIDOR 2BR 4RMS close to blue line. On site laundry, parking, heat & water incl. $1200/ month 708-383-9223

WANTED MILITARY ITEMS: Helmets, medals, patches, uniforms, weapons, flags, photos, paperwork, Also toy soldiers – lead, plastic – other misc. toys.

Call Uncle Gary 708-522-3400

New hardwood flooring installation & pergo. Sanding, re-finishing, staining. Low prices, insured.

Call: 773-671-4996 www.klisflooring.com

SUBURBAN RENTALS

SUBURBAN RENTALS

STUDIOS, 1, 2 & 3 BR Best Selection & Service

OAK PARK & FOREST PARK

708-386-7355

MMpropMgmt.com

Apartment listings updated daily at:

ELECTRICAL

KLIS FLOORING INC.

HANDYMAN Mike’s Home Repair Drywall H Painting H Tile Plumbing H Electric H Floors Windows H Doors H Siding Ask Us What We Don’t Do

708-296-2060

CURT'S HANDYMAN SERVICE Drywall Repair • Painting Fans Installed • Carpentry Trim Gutter Cleaning • Window Repair

FREE ESTIMATES Excellent References No Job Too Small

HAULING BASEMENT CLEANING

Appliances & Furniture Removal Pickup & Delivery.

708-848-9404

HEATING/ AIR CONDITIONING HEATING AND APPLIANCE EXPERT Furnaces, Boilers and Space Heaters Refrigerators Ranges • Ovens Washer • Dryers Rodding Sewers Lic/Bonded 25 yrs experience

FREE SERVICE CALL WITH REPAIR AND SENIOR/VETERAN DISCOUNT.

708-785-2619 or 773-585-5000

708-488-9411

HANDYMAN Find your new apartment this Saturday from 10 am – 4pm at 35 Chicago Avenue.

Or call us toll free at 1-833-440-0665 for an appointment.

Selling your home by owner?

Advertise in Wednesday Classified!

Call: 708-613-3342

PAINTING & DECORATING

Roofing Repairs Concrete Repairs • Drywall All types of handiwork Call For Free Estimates

CLASSIC PAINTING

Ask for John

708.749.0011

773-637-0692

Fast & Neat Painting/Taping/Plaster Repair Low Cost

Attention! Homeimprovement pros!

Reach the people making the decisions – your target demographic.

Place an ad in Wednesday Classifieds!

Call 708/613-3342

PLASTERING

PUBLIC NOTICES

McNulty Plastering & Stucco Co.

Small & big work. Free estimates.

Complete Plaster, Stucco & Re-Coating Services

708/386-2951 • ANYTIME Work Guaranteed

Licensed, Bonded, Insured, & EPA Certified Expert craftsmanship for over 50 years

Notice of Invitation to Bid to Visit Oak Park Visit Oak Park will receive Bids from qualified vendors until 5:00 p.m. on Friday, March 5, 2021 for the following: Visit Oak Park Digital Tourism Platform

REFINISHING Terry's

Woodwork Restoration On-site refinishing of wood

and fiberglass since 1977.

Includes doors, woodwork, windows, staircases and new woodwork etc. All work done by hand. NO sanders. Your unfinished project my specialty!

References available.

Contact Terry Seamans at 630-379-7148 or terryseamans@yahoo.com

PUBLIC NOTICES

Visit Oak Park will receive proposals from responsible vendors to provide the Bureau with a digital tourism marketing platform for creating travel itineraries, with features for virtual passports as well as discounted tickets and coupons. A full copy of the RFP is available by contacting Eric Wagner at eric@visitoakpark.com.

Visit Oak Park reserves the right to issue proposal documents and specifications only to those vendors deemed qualified. For more information, call Visit Oak Park at 708-524-7800.

Published in Wednesday Journal February 10, 2021

Notice of Invitation to Bid to Visit Oak Park

Notice of Invitation to Bid to Visit Oak Park Visit Oak Park will receive Bids from qualified vendors until 5:00 p.m. on Friday, March 5, 2021 for the following: Visit Oak Park Digital Marketing Services Visit Oak Park will receive proposals from responsible vendors to assist the bureau in the management and execution of digital marketing services, including the development and execution of the Bureau’s digital marketing campaigns. A full copy of the RFP is available by contacting Eric Wagner at eric@visitoakpark.com.

Visit Oak Park will receive Bids from qualified vendors until 5:00 p.m. on Friday, March 5, 2021 for the following: Visit Oak Park Search Engine Optimization Visit Oak Park will receive proposals from responsible vendors to provide search engine optimization for the Bureau’s website, VisitOakPark.com. A full copy of the RFP is available by contacting Eric Wagner at eric@ visitoakpark.com.

Visit Oak Park reserves the right to issue proposal documents and specifications only to those vendors deemed qualified. For more information, call Visit Oak Park at 708-524-7800.

Visit Oak Park reserves the right to issue proposal documents and specifications only to those vendors deemed qualified. For more information, call Visit Oak Park at 708-524-7800.

Published in Wednesday Journal February 10, 2021

Published in Wednesday Journal February 10, 2021

Illinois Classified Advertising Network EVENTS

GUN SHOW - February 12-14, 2021, Fountain Hall, 8505 Durand Ave. Sturtevant/Racine,WI Friday 3pm-8pm, Saturday 9am-5pm, Sunday 9am-3pm. Large selection of guns & Ammo More info: 563-608-4401 www.marvkrauspromotions.net

Starting a New Business?

Call the experts before you place your legal ad!

Publish your assumed name legal notice here!

Call Mary Ellen for details: 708/613-3342

18

Forest Park Review, February 10, 2021

CLASSIFIED

(708) 613-3333 • FAX: (708) 467-9066 • E-MAIL: CLASSIFIEDS@FORESTPARKREVIEW.COM

Let the sun shine in...

Public Notice: Your right to know

In print • Online • Available to you 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, every day of the year ForestParkReview.com | PublicNoticeIllinois.com PUBLIC NOTICES

PUBLIC NOTICES

PUBLIC NOTICES

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING

LEGAL NOTICE The Village of Oak Park will receive sealed bids from qualified contractors at the Public Works Center, 201 South Boulevard, Oak Park, Illinois 60302 Monday through Friday, 7:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. local time until 3:00 p.m. on Wednesday, February 24, 2021 for the following: Village of Oak Park Water Distribution System Leak Survey Bid Number: 21-114 Bid documents may be obtained from the Village’s website at http://www.oak-park.us/bid. For questions, please call Public Works at (708) 358-5700 during the above hours.

Published in Wednesday Journal February 10, 2021

LEGAL NOTICE The Village of Oak Park will receive sealed bids from qualified contractors at the Public Works Center, 201 South Boulevard, Oak Park, Illinois 60302 Monday through Friday, 7:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. local time until 9:00 a.m. on Thursday, February 25, 2021 for the following: Village of Oak Park Large Water Meter Testing Program - 2021 Bid Number: 21-115 Bid documents may be obtained from the Village’s website at http://www.oak-park.us/bid. For questions, please call Public Works at (708) 358-5700 during the above hours.

Published in Wednesday Journal February 10, 2021

LEGAL NOTICE The Village of Oak Park will receive sealed bids from qualified contractors at the Public Works Center, 201 South Boulevard, Oak Park, Illinois 60302 Monday through Friday, 7:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. local time until 11:00 a.m. on Wednesday, February 24, 2021 for the following: Village of Oak Park 2021 Master Meter Testing Bid Number: 21-116 Bid documents may be obtained from the Village’s website at http://www.oak-park.us/bid. For questions, please call Public Works at (708) 358-5700 during the above hours.

Published in Wednesday Journal February 10, 2021

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that on 1 March 2021, at 7:00 P.M. via a Zoom web conferencing meeting, the Plan Commission of the Village of Forest Park will conduct a public hearing to consider a request for a planned development conditional use permit to allow the construction of a 57-unit residential building in the B-1 Neighborhood Shopping District, on the following described property: PARCEL 1: THAT PART OF THE SOUTH 52.0 FEET 8 INCHES OF LOTS 1,2,3 AND 4 (TAKEN AS A TRACT) IN BLOCK 1 IN THE SUBDIVISION OF BLOCK 1, 11, 12, AND 21 IN JOSEPH K. DUNLOP’S SUBDIVISION OF THE WEST HALF OF THE SOUTHEAST QUARTER OF SECTION 13, TOWNSHIP 39 NORTH, RANGE 12 EAST OF THE THIRD PRINCIPAL MERIDIAN DESCRIBED AS FOLLOWS: BEGINNING AT A POINT ON THE WEST LINE OF SAID TRACT, SAID POINT BEING 2.81 FEET NORTH OF THE SOUTHWEST CORNER OF SAID TRACT; THENCE CONTINUING NORTH ALONG THE WEST LINE OF SAID TRACT, 49.86 FEET TO THE NORTH LINE OF SAID TRACT; THENCE EAST ALONG THE NORTH LINE OF SAID TRACT, 3.01 FEET; THENCE SOUTH ALONG A STRAIGHT LINE, 44.778 FEET TO A POINT WHICH IS

3.00 FEET EAST OF THE WEST LINE OF SAID TRACT; THENCE SOUTHWESTERLY ALONG A STRAIGHT LINE, 6.07 FEET TO A PLACE OF BEGINNING. PARCEL 2: LOTS 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, AND 10 IN BLOCK 1 I COMSTOCK AND DRESSEL’S SUBDIVISION OF BLOCKS 1, 11, 12, AND 21 I JOSEPH K. DUNLOP’S SUBDIVISION OF THE WEST HALF OF THE SOUTHEAST QUARTER OF SECTION 13, TOWNSHIP 39 NORTH, RANGE 12 EAST OF THE THIRD PRINCIPAL MERIDIAN, IN COOK COUNTY, ILLINOIS. Commonly known as 7412 W. Harrison Street, Forest Park, Illinois.

PINs: 15-13-403-001, 15-13-403002, 15-13-403-003, 15-13-403004, 15-13-403-005, 15-13-403041, 15-13-403-007 The applicant is 7400-7412 West Harrison Street Properties, LLC Information regarding how to access the hearing via Zoom can be obtained at http://www.forestpark. net/dfp/. If you have any questions please contact the Director of Health and Safety, Steve Glinke at sglinke@forestpark.net.

Signed: Paul Barbahen, Acting Chair Plan Commission

Published in the Forest Park Review February 9th, 2021.

LEGAL NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING VILLAGE OF BROOKFIELD PLANNING AND ZONING COMMISSION FEBRUARY 25th, 2021 at 7:00 p.m. Regular Meeting NOTICE is hereby given that the Village of Brookfield Planning and Zoning Commission will conduct a public hearing on Thursday, February 25th, 2021 at 7:00 p.m. in the Edward Barcal Hall located at 8820 Brookfield Avenue, Brookfield, Illinois for the purpose of considering a Text Amendment to Chapter 62 of the Village Code of Ordinances to allow first floor offices in the SA-2 District.

The public is invited to attend the public hearing and present oral and/ or written comments.

Written comments may be provided prior to the public hearing to: Village of Brookfield, Planning and Zoning Commission c/o Michael J.

Schwarz, AICP, Director of Community and Economic Development, 8820 Brookfield Avenue, Brookfield, IL 60513, mschwarz@brookfieldil. gov or 708-485-1113. The application is available on file. Please reference PZC Case 21-05.

Individuals with disabilities requiring a reasonable accommodation in order to participate in any meeting should contact the Village of Brookfield (708) 485-7344 prior to the meeting. Wheelchair access is available through the front (South) entrance of Village Hall.

By the Order of Chuck Grund, Planning and Zoning Commission Chairman.

Published in Landmark February 10, 2021

LEGAL NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING VILLAGE OF BROOKFIELD PLANNING AND ZONING COMMISSION FEBRUARY 25th, 2021 at 7:00 p.m. Regular Meeting NOTICE is hereby given that the Village of Brookfield Planning and Zoning Commission will conduct a public hearing on Thursday, February 25th, 2021 at 7:00 p.m. in the Edward Barcal Hall located at 8820 Brookfield Avenue, Brookfield, Illinois for the purpose of considering a Text Amendment to Chapter 62 of the Village Code of Ordinances to allow new non-conforming uses.

The public is invited to attend the public hearing and present oral and/ or written comments.

Written comments may be provided prior to the public hearing to: Village of Brookfield, Planning and Zoning Commission c/o Michael J.

Schwarz, AICP, Director of Community and Economic Development, 8820 Brookfield Avenue, Brookfield, IL 60513, mschwarz@brookfieldil. gov or 708-485-1113. The application is available on file. Please reference PZC Case 21-06.

Individuals with disabilities requiring a reasonable accommodation in order to participate in any meeting should contact the Village of Brookfield (708) 485-7344 prior to the meeting. Wheelchair access is available through the front (South) entrance of Village Hall.

By the Order of Chuck Grund, Planning and Zoning Commission Chairman.

Published in Landmark February 10, 2021

PUBLIC NOTICES PUBLIC NOTICE Notice is hereby given, pursuant to “An Act in relation to the use of an Assumed Business Name in the conduct or transaction of Business in the State,” as amended, that a certification was registered by the undersigned with the County Clerk of Cook County. Registration Number: Y21005821 on January 28, 2021 Under the Assumed Business Name of KLM ENTERPRISES with the business located at: 1824 E 79TH ST, CHICAGO, IL 60649. The true and real full name(s) and residence address of the owner(s)/partner(s) is: LINDA LEE, 7447 S SOUTH SHORE DR APT 10J, CHICAGO, IL 60649, USA

local employees... happy employees!

Published in RBLandmark 2/10, 2/17, 2/24/2021

PUBLIC NOTICE Notice is hereby given, pursuant to “An Act in relation to the use of an Assumed Business Name in the conduct or transaction of Business in the State,” as amended, that a certification was registered by the undersigned with the County Clerk of Cook County. Registration Number: Y21005947 on February 8, 2021 Under the Assumed Business Name of GUERRERO DESIGN with the business located at 1 E. ERIE STREET SUITE 525-2263, CHICAGO, IL 60611. The true and real full name(s) and residence address of the owner(s)/partner(s) is: JULIO C GUERRERO JR. 2322 LARKIN STREET SAN FRANCISCO, CA 94109, USA. Published in Wednesday Journal 2/10, 2/17, 2/24/2021

REAL ESTATE FOR SALE IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF COOK COUNTY, ILLINOIS COUNTY DEPARTMENT CHANCERY DIVISION WELLS FARGO BANK, NATIONAL ASSOCIATION AS TRUSTEE FOR OPTION ONE MORTGAGE LOAN TRUST 2006-3, ASSET-BACKED CERTIFICATES, SERIES 2006-3 Plaintiff, -v.CHARLES T. GRANT, JUANITA J. GRANT, THE PRAIRIE PLACE AT 6436 ROOSEVELT CONDOMINIUM ASSOCIATION Defendants 2019CH14912 6436 ROOSEVELT RD, 413 OAK PARK, IL 60304 NOTICE OF SALE PUBLIC NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale entered in the above cause on November 5, 2020, an agent for The Judicial Sales Corporation, will at 10:30 AM on March 11, 2021, at The Judicial Sales Corporation, One South Wacker Drive, CHICAGO, IL, 60606, sell at a public sale to the highest bidder, as set forth below, the following described real estate: Commonly known as 6436 ROOSEVELT RD, 413, OAK PARK, IL 60304 Property Index No. 16-18-428-0431030, Property Index No. 16-18428-043-1054 The real estate is improved with a condo/townhouse.

Sale terms: 25% down of the highest bid by certified funds at the close of the sale payable to The Judicial Sales Corporation. No third party checks will be accepted. The balance, including the Judicial Sale fee for the Abandoned Residential Property Municipality Relief Fund,

P

Hire Local. Place an ad on Wednesday Classified’s Local Online Job Board.

Go to ForestParkReview.com/classified today!

Contact Mary Ellen Nelligan for more information.

(708) 613-3342 • maryellen@forestparkreview.com

REAL ESTATE FOR SALE

REAL ESTATE FOR SALE

REAL ESTATE FOR SALE

which is calculated on residential real estate at the rate of $1 for each $1,000 or fraction thereof of the amount paid by the purchaser not to exceed $300, in certified funds/or wire transfer, is due within twenty-four (24) hours. No fee shall be paid by the mortgagee acquiring the residential real estate pursuant to its credit bid at the sale or by any mortgagee, judgment creditor, or other lienor acquiring the residential real estate whose rights in and to the residential real estate arose prior to the sale. The subject property is subject to general real estate taxes, special assessments, or special taxes levied against said real estate and is offered for sale without any representation as to quality or quantity of title and without recourse to Plaintiff and in “AS IS” condition. The sale is further subject to confirmation by the court.

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

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

If this property is a condominium unit, the purchaser of the unit at the foreclosure sale, other than a mortgagee, shall pay the assessments and the legal fees required

by The Condominium Property Act, 765 ILCS 605/9(g)(1) and (g)(4).

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

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

For information, examine the court

file, CODILIS & ASSOCIATES, P.C. Plaintiff’s Attorneys, 15W030 NORTH FRONTAGE ROAD, SUITE 100, BURR RIDGE, IL, 60527 (630) 794-9876 THE JUDICIAL SALES CORPORATION One South Wacker Drive, 24th Floor, Chicago, IL 60606-4650 (312) 236-SALE You can also visit The Judicial Sales Corporation at www.tjsc.com for a 7 day status report of pending sales.

CODILIS & ASSOCIATES, P.C. 15W030 NORTH FRONTAGE ROAD, SUITE 100 BURR RIDGE IL, 60527 630-794-5300 E-Mail: pleadings@il.cslegal.com Attorney File No. 14-19-11626 Attorney ARDC No. 00468002 Attorney Code. 21762 Case Number: 2019CH14912 TJSC#: 40-2378 NOTE: Pursuant to the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act, you are advised that Plaintiff’s attorney is deemed to be a debt collector attempting to collect a debt and any information obtained will be used for that purpose.

Case # 2019CH14912 I3163568

Forest Park Review, February 10, 2021

INC., REALTOR

(708) 366-8989 7342 MADISON ST, FOREST PARK, ILLINOIS 60130

SOLD!

928 S. Kenilworth Ave. Oak Park ....................$275,000

SOLD!

Property has been owner occupied by the same family for 50+ years. 1st fl has spacious living rm and dining rm, kitchen and 1/2 bath. 2nd floor has three bedrooms and full bath. Stucco exterior and 2 car detached garage.

Great location in south west Oak Park. Needs some updating but livable as-is.

935 Elgin Avenue, Forest Park ........................$489,000 This is a money maker! This early 1970s brick four flat houses two one bedroom apartments on the top floor, a large three bedroom two bath apartment on the first floor, and a large two bedroom two bathroom apartment in the lower level. Tandem parking for 8 cars.

Meticulously maintained by the current owner for several decades.

The numbers work! This one really won't last long.

SOLD!

1117 Marengo Avenue, Forest Park .......................$263,500 What a great opportunity to get into Forest Park at an affordable price! This home offers four total bedrooms, two on the second floor and two on the first floor. The home is in perfect condition!

Living room, dining room, and eat in kitchen, plus a finished basement. Huge deck off the back of the house and a very large two car garage!

SOLD!

1028 Beloit Forest Park ....................$289,000 This 3 BR, 2.1 BA home has not been available in over 55 years.

It has been meticulously maintained within the same family for that time. This home offers two first floor good sized bedrooms and a large second floor master. Each floor has a full updated bathroom. The first floor living room, with it's vaulted ceilings, fill with sunlight pouring from the front foyer windows.

337 Marengo Avenue, Forest Park ......................$275,000 Fantastic location alert!! Just a stones throw from Madison Street shopping, restaurants, and night life makes this a very desirable piece of real estate! This is two flat is ready for some love and attention. Just stuck in time is all. Or a fantastic de-conversion to single family! So bring your decorating ideas, and be prepared to fall in love!

SOLD!

S W NE

!

H S LA

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Forest Park Review, February 10, 2021

Growing Community Media & A Tribe Called Aging Present

wabi sabi F I L M F E S T I V A L

Our Covid-19 free gift to the community watch it free on ZOOM in your own home

Appreciating the beauty of impermanence, a quarterly Film Series encouraging everyone to embrace and respect our aging population and the transformation of our society.

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Wednesday Journal, February 10, 2021

NEED TO REACH US?

oakpark.com/real-estate email: buphues@wjinc.com

B1

Homes

Old home lives like new Historic Oak Park residence rehabbed for today

By LACEY SIKORA

S

Contributing Reporter

ome homes in Oak Park wear their architectural pedigree on their sleeves.

Whether through a plaque on the front designating them historic landmarks or a distinctive architectural flourish, they announce to the world that, through their connection with a famous architect or an individual who made a mark on Oak Park, they are a part of local history.

Other homes from the same era might be a little more subtle. Yes, they are old and most likely designed by someone with architectural skills, but their pasts aren’t as well documented.

While they might not garner a stop on famous home tours, these houses are the bread and butter of Oak Park -- the kind of charming historic homes that draw people

to live here.

The house at 215 N. Elmwood Ave. is one of those. Records kept by the Historical Society of Oak Park and River Forest indicate the home was built sometime between 1895 and 1908, and has names but few details on the first owners.

A real estate ad from the 1970s says the house could be an E. E. Roberts design, but there is no corroboration for this claim.

In short, the stately home might have an undistinguished pedigree, but it retains many original details that make it an Oak Park classic. Recently, the owners updated the home for their family’s needs and while they retained the original charm, they created a versatile space for a modern family.

Complete makeover In 2014, Beyond Properties Owner and Managing Broker Erica Cuneen sold the

Photo provided

VINTAGE MODERN: Oak Park is dotted with homes like this one at 215 N. Elmwood Ave. (top), historic structures available to be updated for contemporary living. This property also comes with a 2-bed, 1-bath coach house apartment (above). home to the current owners. It was wellmaintained, but she says of what was then a big blue house, “It had all of these nice vintage features, but it needed a ton of work.”

She says that her clients took the house down to the studs, while taking care to sal-

vage original details like the dining room’s woodwork and leaded glass windows. At the rear of the house, they created an addition to allow space for a mudroom and stairs to the basement.

See LIKE NEW on page 4

B2

Wednesday Journal, February 10, 2021

OAKPARK.COM | RIVERFOREST.COM

love is sweet.

HAPPY VALENTINE’S DAY

Wednesday Journal, February 10, 2021

OAKPARK.COM | RIVERFOREST.COM

JUST LISTED! 409 Lathrop Ave, #1E, River Forest Centrally located 1 BD, 1BA condo with large, updated kitchen including granite countertops and SS appliances. Covered parking included. ...................... $142,000

JUST SOLD! 1422 William St, River Forest Unique and totally stunning. This 3 plus BR contemporary features 3 levels of living space surrounding a private outdoor retreat. .................................... $1,000,000

UNDER CONTRACT! 1020 Harlem Ave, 4B, River Forest Under contract in less than a day!

Sprawling 3 BR condo in desirable elevator building with 2 garage spots. Tons of upgrades and fresh décor make this a truly special home. ............................ $375,000

JUST LISTED! 1120 Thomas St, Unit 304, Oak Park 2 BR, 2 BA. Light-filled, top floor condo with a large balcony, hardwood floors, many closets, in-unit laundry, and 2 parking spaces (1 garage.) A great package in an elevator building! ...................... $330,000

Sandi Graves | 708-752-6540 sgraves@cbexchange.com

Sue Canepa I 312-203-0848 suecanepahomes@gmail.com

Sue Canepa l 312-203-0848 suecanepahomes@gmail.com

Stephanie Eiger | 708-557-0779 Stephanie.Eiger@cbexchange.com

JUST LISTED! 1020 Harlem Ave, #1D, River Forest 2 BR, 2 BA. Beautiful and spacious unit in landers house. New windows, hardwood floors and updated baths. 2 car garage parking, in-unit laundry and huge balcony. ................................................... $339,000

COMING SOON! 101 N. Euclid Ave, Oak Park Easy living 2 BR townhome, plus large bonus area. Recently painted, new hdwd flrs on main level, perfect central location, private garage. Call us for details and access to more exclusive properties!

JUST LISTED! 506 S. Austin Blvd., #1, Oak Park 3 BR, 2 BA. Fantastic first-floor spacious condo near transportation. Beautiful hardwood floors. Bosch stainless steel appliances and washer/dryer in the unit.

Assign parking available. $178,500

JUST SOLD! 501 Fair Oaks, Oak Park The buyers are out there and the inventory is low. Now is the time to take advantage of the market and list your home.

John Haagenson | 773-230-6995 john.haagenson@cbexchange.com

Lisa Andreoli and Meredith Conn 708-557-9546 or 708-743-6973 TeamGo2Girls@gmail.com

Andrea “Bonnie” Routen | 708-544-8440 Andrea.bonnie@cbexchange.com

B3

Kirstin Gloor | 708-351-8977 Kirstin.Gloor@cbexchange.com

Exceptional Service.

Exceptional Results.

Optimal results.

Seamless experience.

Best year of sales 2020 and 2021 continues strong! Let me help you find your sacred space called HOME!

100% commitment to my clients.

Monica Klinke

Shea Kiessling

Patty Melgar Hooks

Michelle Miller

708-612-3031 monica.klinke@cbexchange.com

708-710-5952 shea@cbexchange.com

708-261-2796 patty.melgarhooks@cbexchange.com

708-334-5833 michelle.miller@cbexchange.com

COLDWELLBANKERHOMES.COM Oak Park 114 N. Oak Park Avenue, Oak Park | 708.524.1100 The property information herein is derived from various sources that may include, but not be limited to, county records and the Multiple Listing Service, and it may include approximations. Although the information is believed to be accurate, it is not warranted and you should not rely upon it without personal verification. Real estate agents affiliated with Coldwell Banker Realty are independent contractor sales associates, not employees. ©2020 Coldwell Banker Realty. All Rights Reserved. Coldwell Banker Realty fully supports the principles of the Fair Housing Act and the Equal Opportunity Act. Owned by a subsidiary of NRT LLC. Coldwell Banker and the Coldwell Banker Logo are registered service marks owned by Coldwell Banker Realty LLC.

B4

Wednesday Journal, February 10, 2021

LIKE NEW

Move-in ready from page 1 A brand-new gourmet kitchen includes an eight-burner Blue Star range and a walnut island with leathered granite counters. A new butler’s pantry is a nod to what might have existed in the original home, and a walk-in pantry provides extra storage.

The second floor originally had five bedrooms with one shared bathroom.

The owners reconfigured the space to create a huge primary suite, converting one bedroom to a closet and another to the en suite bathroom.

The third floor has three more bedrooms and a full bath, bringing the total number of bedrooms in the main house to six, with three full bathrooms and two half bathrooms.

As part of their work, the owners also built a new three-car garage topped with a two-bedroom, one bathroom coach house.

“The coach house is amazing,” Cuneen said.

The entire space is ADA accessible and includes an elevator, making it versatile as an in-law suite or a great work-fromhome space. Cuneen says the coach house is like a standalone house, with its own heating/cooling systems, kitchen and pa-

OAKPARK.COM | RIVERFOREST.COM tio.

Listed for sale The owners are moving on and have listed the home for sale with Cuneen for $1.7 million.

“Everything is new: the bathrooms, the kitchen, the roof, the gutters, the mechanicals,” Cuneen said. “There is nothing to do but move in.

“They even put in a geothermal heating system, so the cost to heat and cool the house is really low for such a big house.”

The location is a big selling point as well, within walking distance to the farmers market, schools and the el, providing a walkability that Cuneen says buyers are looking for.

While the attributes are appealing, Cuneen says it makes sense to use all of the available technology to showcase the house to buyers who may begin their search for a new home from their computers. She created a video of a drone tour of the property to augment the professional listing photos of the home. Visit tinyurl. com/4azxstyp to watch the video.

At the end of the day, Cuneen says the home might sell to a buyer from the city or to someone local looking for more room for a growing family. She has no doubt they will fall in love with the space.

“It’s definitely such a unique property in that everything has been done,” Cuneen said. “You have nothing to do. And, it’s stunning.”

Need a Need a helping helping of Need a helping of of

Photo provided

LOTS OF ROOM: The home still retains some original features like stained-glass windows adorning the main stairwell, but it’s also is fully ADA accessible and sports amenities like an elevator, new bathrooms, a kitchen with an 8-burner Blue Star range -- all within walking distance to the el and farmers market.

Need a helping of

Need a helping of

Call Jill at (708) 524-8300 or visit ForestParkReview.com/subscribe

at (708) 524-8300 CallCall Jill Jill at (708) 524-8300 or visit OakPark.com/subscribe or Call visit OakPark.com/subscribe Jill atJill (708) 524-8300 Call at (708) 524-8300 or visit visit ForestParkReview.com/subscribe OakPark.com/subscribe

Wednesday Journal, February 10, 2021

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B5

Generations of Excellence since 1958

708.771.8040 • 7375 W. North Ave., River Forest Alisa Coghill DonnaAvenue Barnhisel 7375 West North Kay Costello Anne Brennan MANAGING River Forest, Illinois 60305 Maria Cullerton Kevin Calkins BROKER/OWNERS Julie Downey Tom Carraher 708.771.8040 Kurt Fielder Pat Cesario Andy Gagliardo

Tom Poulos

Joe Cibula Don Citrano

Ramona Fox Laura Gancer

Lisa Grimes Dan Halperin Sharon Halperin Greg Jaroszewski Vee Jaroszewski Noa Klima Jack Lattner

Iris McCormick Vince McFadden Colleen Navigato John Pappas Rosa Pitassi Sue Ponzio-Pappas Jenny Ruland

Laurel Saltzman Laurie Shapiro Tom Sullivan Debbie Watts George Wohlford Nancy Wohlford Randy Ernst • 773-290-0307

611 JACKSON • RIVER FOREST

831 HOME • OAK PARK OPEN SUNDAY 122

702 PARK • RIVER FOREST

1216 N TAYLOR • OAK PARK

N E W LISTI NG!

N EW LI S T I N G!

N EW LI S T I NG!

UN DE R CON TR AC T!

BEAUTIFUL, CENTER ENTRANCE COLONIAL with a large foyer, family room, sunroom, luxury kitchen with eating area AND island seating, tons of storage and pantry space, open floor plan rec room in basement. Tastefully done and impeccably maintained. All you need to do is move in! ..................................................... $1,299,000

RECENT UPDATES for this great move-in ready home! 3 BRs, 1st Fl office, screened-in front porch with new hardwood floors, enclosed back porch that doubles as a mud room, all BRs with hardwood floors, finished basement with large living area, fenced yard, 2-1/2 car garage. ....................................................... $415,000

LOVELY, CLASSIC COLONIAL situated on a sun-drenched oversized corner lot. Features include large LR, sunroom, DR with built-in cabinet, kitchen that opens to back porch and large deck.

Basement offers higher ceilings open space. Many recent upgrades and improvements ...............................................................$619,900

ELEGANT, HIGHLY UPGRADED with a nod to its history.

This exceptional OP bungalow is move-in ready with generous room sizes, tasteful finishes, new mechanicals, natural light, and thoughtful space design. Features include refinished original hardwood, original art glass accents, sleek kitchen. .........$519,900

1120 PARK • RIVER FOREST

ADDITIONAL OPEN HOUSES SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 14, 2021

223 THATCHER • RIVER FOREST

RIVER FOREST 1135 FOREST • OPEN SUNDAY 121:30 1522 PARK • OPEN SUNDAY 23:30

ELEGANT CRAFTSMANSHIP can be found throughout this 5 BR French Normandy home. Sophistication is evident from the moment you walk in the door. Impressive foyer, formal LR with fireplace and built-in benches, family room, separate formal DR, updated kitchen, home office. ............................................................................................. $999,000 UNDE R CO NTRAC T! IMPECABLE BLEND of classic Tallmadge & Watson Prairie style with highest-end contemporary features, finishes, and floor plan.

This level of excellence is rarely found in a historic home. Features include private office, butler’s pantry, sunporch, mudroom, 2nd FL & bsmt laundry room. ..................................................... $1,699,000

1134 ROSSELL • OAK PARK

UN DE R CO NTRAC T! GRACIOUS, VINTAGE BRICK COLONIAL with impressive room sizes, newly finished hardwood floors, substantial crown molding, beautiful French doors, family room, and a wood-burning fireplace. Outside features an awning-covered veranda, back patio, large fenced-in yard............................................................$625,000

Find that New Home!

217 N TAYLOR • OPEN SUNDAY 122

OAK PARK 6436 ROOSEVELT UNIT 212 • OPEN SUNDAY 122

PRICE REDUCED RARELY AVAILABLE, “Cavalcade of Pride” award-winning home on 50 x 170 ft lot. High ceilings, oak staircase, marble fireplace, separate formal dining area, spacious den/family room with stained glass and built-in bookcases, eat-in kitchen, and a large full basement with storage.............................................................. $579,000

RIVER FOREST HOMES

COMFORTABLE SPACE for all your needs and wants in this 4BR brick home. Hardwood floors and many built-ins throughout, a wood-burning fireplace, breakfast room/mudroom, custom deck, and two family rooms! Bring your decorating ideas and make it your own! .................... .................................................................................................... $639,000

STATELY SOUTHERN COLONIAL blends old world craftsmanship with elegant modern updates ideally located. Grand foyer, elegant LR with fireplace, recently remodeled gourmet kitchen, mudroom, family room, large basement with den/office.

Meticulously maintained and ready to move in. ........... $1,599,000 EXPERT DESIGN RENOVATION! The very best in contemporary design, finishes and mechanicals alongside exquisitely restored leaded glass doors and gleaming hardwoods create the ideal blend of old and new. Massive rooms and high end craftsmanship throughout. Oversized lot. .............................................. $1,499,000 GRAND SPRAWLING HOME with an abundance of interior and exterior living areas. 5 BRs, upstairs laundry, 3 full & 1 half BAs, 3 fireplaces, full basement with recreation room. Grand two story family room incorporated into an open plan kitchen. Hardwood floors throughout main level. ............................................ $787,000 MUCH LARGER THAN IT LOOKS! This 3+ BR, 2-1/2 BA brick bungalow is move-in ready! Features include an open LR/DR, eat-in kitchen, reworked basement, new windows, Alpha closets, new washer & dryer, and brick patio and firepit all enclosed by a private back yard .................................................................$729,000

BEAUTIFULLY UPDATED one bedroom, one bath Oak Park condominium. Open, light-filled floor plan. Newer construction building with in-unit laundry and balcony. Exterior parking space. Well managed building with fitness facility and storage. A must see! ............................ .................................................................................................... $179,000

OAK PARK HOMES

U N DE R CON TR AC T! UPDATED VICTORIAN overlooking lush Thatcher Woods! Grand rooms, beautiful wooded vistas, walk to Metra! Upgrades in this 5BR/4.5 BA incl natural stone fplc, fam rm, open kitchen. 3rd FL living space, 2 story-4 car garage, wrap-around porch. Lovely lot, room to grow, move right in! .............................................$849,000

301 S EUCLID • OAK PARK

THREE STORY GRAND VICTORIAN on 100 x 218 lot in the heart of the Frank Lloyd Wright district. This estate features 6 Bedrooms, 2 Full baths, 3 fireplaces, many historic details including double front entry doors sourced from the Historic Pullman Estates section of Chicago. ...................................................................$646,000

CONDOS/TOWNHOMES/2 FLATS RIVER FOREST 2BR, 2BA. Completely updated. ............$264,000 OAK PARK Two Flat ...........................................................$550,000 PRICE REDUCED OAK PARK 3BR, 2 full, 2 half BA. ......$464,000 OAK PARK 2BR, 2BA. Two parking spots. ........................ $379,000 NEW LISTING OAK PARK 2BR, 2BA. .............................. $379,000 OAK PARK 3BR, 2 full/1 half BA. Vintage beauty............$285,000 NEW LISTING OAK PARK 2BR, 1-1/2 BA. ......................$268,500 OAK PARK 2BR, 2BA. Courtyard view. ..............................$249,900

UN DE R CON TR AC T! ARCHITECTURAL INTEGRITY of this 4 BR, 3BA farmhouse has been preserved whenever updates were completed. Double door entry, antique light fixture, hardwood flooring, art glass windows, natural trim work and high ceilings are found throughout this home. ................................................................................... $579,000

Contact a Gagliardo Realty Associates Agent for a free market analysis

Shop for homes online at GagliardoRealty.com

B6

Wednesday Journal, February 10, 2021

OAKPARK.COM | RIVERFOREST.COM

WE’RE BY YOUR SIDE 107 S Scoville Ave Oak Park | $1,250,000 Keller Group Chicago

940 Bonnie Brae Pl River Forest | $1,139,000 Ed Bellock

232 S Kenilworth Ave Oak Park | $795,000 Jim Gillespie

947 Wenonah Ave Oak Park | $749,000 Swati Saxena

1526 Lathrop Ave River Forest | $635,000 Bethanny Alexander

111 Home Ave, Unit 3 Oak Park | $559,000 Hughes Home Team

40 Ashland Ave River Forest | $549,000 Keller Group Chicago

435 William St, Unit 208 River Forest | $515,000 Ed Bellock

110 S Marion St, Unit 304 Oak Park | $439,000 Patricia McGowan

720 S Ridgeland Ave Oak Park | $385,000 Arrick Pelton

1014 Hayes Ave Oak Park | $379,000 Bobbi Eastman

830 N Austin Blvd Oak Park | $373,000 Heidi Rogers

170 N Marion St, Unit 3 Oak Park | $369,900 Patricia McGowan

3150 N Prater Ave Melrose Park | $315,000 Carla Taylor

411 Ashland Ave, Unit 5C River Forest | $279,000 Mary Carlin

7753 Van Buren St, Unit 318 Forest Park | $259,413 Jim Gillespie

424 Park Ave, Unit 205 River Forest | $240,000 Saretta Joyner

210 S Lombard Ave Oak Park | $219,000 Peggy Letchos

8009 Lake St, Unit 2W River Forest | $157,000 Anne Ferri & Kim Wojack

217 Chicago Ave, Unit 2 Oak Park | $139,000 Catherine SImon-Vobornik

Baird & Warner Oak Park/River Forest | 1037 Chicago Ave. Oak Park, IL 60302 | 708.697.5900 | oakpark.bairdwarner.com Source: BrokerMetrics® LLC, 1/1/2019 - 12/ 31/2019Detached and Attached only. Chicagoland PMSA

Wednesday Journal, February 10, 2021

OAKPARK.COM | RIVERFOREST.COM

Why test yourcan LUCK when you canon depend on top-selling Broker, You depend top-selling Sarah O’Shea Munoz? Munoz!

Broker, Sarah O’Shea SOLD!

B7

PRICE REDUCTION

UNDER Experienced, Well-Qualified Professional FOR CONTRACT SALE in 1 day!

Responsive, Resourceful & Thorough Efficient, Empathetic & Compassionate

Work with someone who treasures you!!!

538 N. Elmwood SOLD! Oak Park Wonderfully inviting 4BR/2.1 BA…$600,000

FOR SALE 1227 Jackson - River Forest 4BR/ 3.1 BA - $899,000

516 N. Lombard SOLD! Oak Park 3 BR/ 2.1 BA Townhome…$397,700

UNDER CONTRACT in 4 days!

1114 Augusta Oak Park 4 BR/ 3 BA….$697,700

1522 FOREST, RIVER FOREST $849,000 :: 4 BED :: 4.5 BATH Brick Tudor with expansive yard.

JUST LISTED

UNDER CONTRACT in 10 days!

7651 Monroe - Forest Park 5BR/ 2BA 2-flat - $374,977

222 N GROVE, OAK PARK

SOLD!

8019 Lake Street #1S – River Forest 2 BR/ 1 BA Condo…$150,000

SOLD! 936 Forest - River Forest 3BR/ 2BA - $529,000

SOLD! 100 Frank Lloyd Wright Lane, Oak Park 3 BR/ 2 BA Townhome…$333,500

704 Forest River Forest 3+1 BR…$599,000

SOLD!

SOLD!

$199,000 :: 2 BED :: 2 BATH Condo with updated kitchen. Close to everything.

950 Washington #209 – Oak Park 2 BR/ 1 BA Condo…$173,700

SOLD! 415 Franklin #3D & 415 Franklin #2F 3BR/ 2BA $267,000 2BR/ 2BA $269,000

KATHY & TONY IWERSEN 708.772.8040 708.772.8041 tonyiwersen@atproperties.com

River Forest

Under Contract in 307 S. Humphrey 14 days!

Oak Park 6 BR/ 2.1 BA…$565,000

438 Lenox Oak Park 3 BR/ 1.1 BA ….$365,000

With low interest rates, it’s a 838 N. Elmwood - Oak Park 643 Garfield #3 - Oak Park to- $134,900 Buy & Sell!

3 BR/ 2.1 BA - $594,900 SWEET time 2BR/ 1 BA Contact Sarah to plan for your next real estate transaction!

Sarah O’Shea Munoz

ASP (RE), CNE, e-PRO, GRI REALTOR®

Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Chicago SOMunoz@BhhsChicago.com OSheaMunozHomes.com

708.359.1570

©2021 BHHAffiliates, Affiliates, LLC. An operatedoperated franchisee of BHH Affiliates, LLC. Berkshire Hathaway andand theaBerkshire HomeServices symbol are © BHH LLC. An independently subsidiary of HomeServices of America, Inc., a BerkshireHomeServices Hathaway affiliate, franchisee Hathaway of BHH Affiliates,LLC. Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices and theof Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices symbol are registered service marks of HomeServices of America, Inc.® Equal Housing Opportunity. registered service marks Columbia Insurance Company, a Berkshire Hathaway affiliate.

Equal Housing Opportunity.

ASSISTED LIVING • SHELTERED CARE • MEMORY CARE • SKILLED NURSING

Now safely moving new residents to our small, wooded campus.

A safe & smart choice.

Choosing a community you can trust has never been more difficult.

Our community has an impeccable record of safety during the COVID-19 crisis and we will stop at nothing to make sure it continues.

We would be honored for your family to be part of ours.

CONTACT US FOR AN OUTDOOR VISIT 2800 Des Plaines Avenue, North Riverside, IL 60546 (708) 477-5092 | CaledoniaSeniorLiving.org

Limited availability!

B8

Wednesday Journal, February 10, 2021

RIVER FOREST Pristine oak floors, custom built-ins and cabinetry and exquisite architectural details grace this magnificent Tudor.

OAKPARK.COM | RIVERFOREST.COM

OAK PARK Magnificent grand Colonial features 4 levels of luxurious living.

5 BR, 3 BA .........................................................................................................................................................$1,125,000

5 BR, 4.1 BA ......................................................................................................................................................$1,290,000

OAK PARK

FOREST PARK

Steve Scheuring • 708-369-8043

Spectacular renovated condo in the very desirable Tara Hall building.

2 BR, 1 BA ............................................................................................................................................................$164,000 Steve Scheuring • 708-369-8043

Steve Scheuring • 708-369-8043

New construction in 2007. Fabulous 2-story brick and stone 2,152 sq ft condo!

2 BR, 2 BA ............................................................................................................................................................$425,000 Michael O’Neill & Bridget O’Neill • 708-267-8995 or 312-337-0200

Want to see your listings in Distinctive Properties?

Contact Marc Stopeck at 708.613.3330 or marc@oakpark.com

Wednesday Journal, February 10, 2021

OAKPARK.COM | RIVERFOREST.COM

CHICAGO

B9

OAK PARK

3 BR, 2.1 BA ....................................................................$849,000 Michael O’Neill & Bridget O’Neill 708-267-8995 or 312-337-0200

3 BR, 3.1 BA ....................................................................$775,000 Denise Sacks • 708-217-2111

OAK PARK Marvelous luxury home completely refurbished. Brand new coach house with elevator!

OAK PARK

8 BR, 6 BA ..........................................................................................................................................................$1,700,000 Erica Cuneen • 708-220-2025

4 BR, 3 BA .......................................................................$670,000 Erica Cuneen • 708-220-2025

OAK PARK

4 BR, 3.1 BA ....................................................................$600,000 Erica Cuneen • 708-220-2025

OAK PARK

2 BR, 2 BA .......................................................................$249,000 Erica Cuneen • 708-220-2025

OAK PARK

4 BR, 2 BA .......................................................................$575,000 Erica Cuneen • 708-220-2025

OAK PARK

5 BR, 1.1 BA ....................................................................$325,000 Erica Cuneen • 708-220-2025

OAK PARK

4 BR, 3 BA .......................................................................$595,000 Jolyn Crawford • 708-860-2510

Want to see your listings in Distinctive Properties?

Contact Marc Stopeck at 708.613.3330 or marc@oakpark.com

B10

Wednesday Journal, February 10, 2021

y a t S rm! a w rnal u o J y a dnesd w e W t a evie ends R i r k F r r a u P t Yo & Fores

OAKPARK.COM | RIVERFOREST.COM

Wednesday Journal, February 10, 2021

OAKPARK.COM | RIVERFOREST.COM

B11

Opportunity

(op ‘er-too’-ni-te) noun.

Applying persistence to the possibilities.

A chance for advancement.

Sunday, February 14 CONDOS

ADDRESS

OFFICE

LISTING PRICE

TIME

339 Home Ave., 2F, Oak Park . . . . . . . . . . . Baird & Warner . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$299,000 . . . . . . . . . . . . Open Sun. 12-2 7313 Franklin St, 2B, Forest Park. . . . . . . . . Baird & Warner. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$359,900 . . . . . . . . . . . . . Open Sun 12-2 320 S. Maple Ave, Unit D, Oak Park . . . . . . Baird & Warner. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $469,000 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Open Sun 1-3

SINGLE FAMILY HOMES

6436 Roosevelt Rd, Unit 212, Oak Park. . . Gagliardo Realty Associates . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $179,000 . . . . . . . . . . . . . Open Sun 12-2

ADDRESS

OFFICE

LISTING PRICE

TIME

940 Bonnie Brae Pl, River Forest . . . . . . . . Baird & Warner. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $1,139,000 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Open Sun 1-3 40 Ashland Ave, River Forest . . . . . . . . . . . Baird & Warner. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $549,000 . . . . . . . Open Sat & Sun 12-3 831 Home, Oak Park . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Gagliardo Realty Associates . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $415,000 . . . . . . . . . . . . . Open Sun 12-2

Tom Carraher redefines the essence of real estate service.

It isn’t often you find someone who has the vision and knowledge to find and create opportunities where others saw none.

Tom Carraher finds ways to help you capitalize on the myriad advantages that come from making the right move at the right time.

Call Tom Carraher at 708-822-0540 to achieve all of your real estate goals.

Tom Carraher

This Directory brought to you by

Realistic Expectation–Proven Results

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Wednesday Journal, February 10, 2021

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Growing Community Media & A Tribe Called Aging Present

wabi sabi F I L M F E S T I V A L

Our Covid-19 free gift to the community watch it free on ZOOM in your own home

Appreciating the beauty of impermanence, a quarterly Film Series encouraging everyone to embrace and respect our aging population and the transformation of our society.

Duty

Free

DUTY FREE Friday, February 12 • 10am A FILM BY SIAN-PIERRE REGIS

Rebecca worked every day of her life as a hotel housekeeper to give her two sons, Sian-Pierre and Gabriel, every opportunity life could afford. When it was time for Sian-Pierre to go to college, she even cashed out her 401K to give him the best education possible. But when she was suddenly fired from her job at 75, Rebecca was left with nothing: no savings, no safety net, and no future job prospects. Now, Sian-Pierre is giving her back the life she sacrificed, and helping her to reclaim her future, one bucket-list adventure at a time.

Ageism and Financial Insecurity in America are pervasive. Older folks are invisible in their communities, workplaces, and, sometimes, within their own families. An estimated 25 million won’t have enough money to get through retirement age.

Trailer | New York Times Article | Website | Email

DIRECTOR Sian-Pierre Regis WILL JOIN US FOR A POST-FILM Q+A/DISCUSSION Sponsors

Learn more and register at: eventbrite.com/d/online/duty-free/