Forest Park Review 030123

Village resurrects health board as mental health advisor y

body

New ordinance more clearly de nes board role, sets meeting minimum

By IGOR STUDENKOV Staff Reporter

As the Village Forest Park looks to improve coordination and collaboration with Proviso area mental health service providers, it is bringing back the Forest Park Board of Health to provide professional advice.

While its new mandate calls for the board to advise the village on all public health issues, Maria Maxham, commissioner of Public Health and Safety, made it clear that getting expert opinion on mental health was the primary reason for bringing it back. While she and other village officials said that Forest Park doesn’t have the staf f or the means to provide mental health services on its own, they wanted to do a better job of taking advantage of what local organizations are already providing and working with other governing bodies and local organizations on collaborative solutions.

See HEALTH BOARD on pa ge 6

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Cannabis shop at C VS gets unanimous OK from council

Residents express concerns about loitering, cannabis use at site

By IGOR STUDENKOV Staff Reporter

Forest Park’s village council voted unanimously on Feb. 27 to allow the Bloc cannabis dispensary to open inside the former CVS location at 7216 Circle Ave.

This came six days after the village’s Planning and Zoning Commission recommended approval. During the Feb. 21 meeting, Justice Cannabis company, which will operate the dispensary, emphasized the security measures they plan to put in place, which would not only make the store safe, but make the sur rounding area safer, they said.

During both the Feb. 21 and Feb. 27 meeting, residents of the nearby Forest Oaks senior apar tments, 25 Elgin Ave., said they weren’ t swayed by those assurances. The owners of Let’s Play Work, a co-working space with a children’s playground located on that building’s first floor, said they were wor ried the proximity to a dispensary would hur t their business

But village commissioners said that, while they didn’t want to dismiss the residents’ concer ns, the data the applicants presented, along with the village review process and research conducted by the Police Chief Ken Gross, convinced them the dispensary would benefit the village.

Commissioners Joe Byr nes and Ryan Nero both said security cameras — as well as the fact that, per state law, the police will be able to access the security feed — will make the intersection safer

“What they’re putting in is a camera system that is second to none, and we’d be able to see or around the building, including on Elgin,” Byr nes said.

Commissioner Jessica Voogd said she was pleased that residents got a chance to weigh in on the dispensary through the conditional use process. During a Feb. 13 meeting, she voted ag ainst allowing dispensaries by right on the Madison Street cor ridor because she believed kee ping it as a conditional use would allow the

village to have some applicants

Commissioner Maria Maxham said when she was previously editor of Forest Park Review, access to police re por ts drove home ho the intersection got — but Gross’ re along with the revenue the dispensary would bring, convinced her to suppo application.

“I can’t predict the future, I don’t have a crystal ball, but I think it will be OK, it will be safe,” she said.

The dispensary will be owned by Emerald Coast. That fir m is co-owned by Justin Frankel of Katohan, N.Y., Alan Dordek of Wilmette, Tyrone Har ris of Bellwood, and Matthew Jose ph Hagglund of Nor mal. They hired Justice Cannabis which has a cannabis cultivation facility in Edgewood, IL, and operates multiple dispensaries in Pennsylvania, New Jersey, Massachusetts, Missouri, Utah and Michigan. Mitch Zaveduk, Justice Cannabis’ vice president of real estate, said they plan to eventually operate 10 branches in Illinois overall.

The Bloc would be moving into the souther n third of the vacant CVS building. Drew Krisco, owner of Ber n Realty, which owns the building, told the commission that they plan to split the remaining space into two,

and they are currently in discussion with potential retail tenants

“There’s a lot of interest,” he said. “Unfor tunately, I can’t disclose what it is at the moment, but it will be something that adds value.”

Planning and Zoning Commissioner Paul Price asked whether the property owners would consider building a mixed-use development similar to the Eleven33 Apar tments across the street. Developer Tim Hague, also with Ber n Realty, responded that, as someone who was involved in that building’s development, he didn’t believe Ber n had the capacity for something like it, and the density might be “excessive” for that particular parcel.

“We’ re familiar with the product, and we looked at it, the nature of family own erships in this doesn’t allow us to do that large-scale mixed use development,” he

said.

Zaveduk said they liked the location because it is near public transit and has ample parking. Based on Justice Cannabis’ past experience, they believed that the traffic impact would be less than an average drive-through, saying that they expect 85% of the customers to simply stop by to pick up their orders and leave.

“The average time that our customers spend in our store is 4.5 minutes. And that’s really a little skewed [by customers who browse],” Zaveduk said.

In a Feb. 2 letter to the zoning commission, Forest Park Police Chief Ken Gross said he consulted with his counter par ts in Elmwood Park, Melrose Park and Westchester, which each have one dispensary, and Rosemont, which has two. The feedback Gross got was that, aside from an issue with a ter minated employee at a Westchester dispensary, they have had no police calls He also reviewed Oak Park Police De par tment call records for the MedMen medical cannabis dispensary. 1142 Lake St.

“There were five calls [between Jan. 1, 2020 and Feb. 2, 2023], with two being parking complaints, two being customer disputes, and one being a motor vehicle theft,”

IGOR STUDENKOV/Sta Repor ter

(Above) Paul Price, Planning and Zoning Commissioner (Le ) Matthew Hagglund, co-owner of Emerald Coast, ow ner of the new dispensary

Wine Ta sting - Fancy Wines

Thursday, March 2, 7 - 8:30 p.m., Second Floor Admin. Bldg. Here’s your chance to sip 4 wines valued at $75+ without dishing out a ton of dough. We’ll have a mixed variety of wines and analyze the intricacies of each determining if price and value are truly aligned. Let’s star t o 2023 right and dive into some fanc y wines. $45. Register tinyurl.com/32z7xp6k. 7501 Harrison Street, Forest Park.

Welcome to Camp

Half-Blood Kit

Wednesday, March 8, 9 a.m. - 5 p.m., vir tually through Forest Park Public Librar y

If you’re a fan of Perc y Jackson, then we have the per fect kit for you. Each kit will have goodies inspired by the Perc y Jackson book series. Designed for ages 11-13. Kits are limited, so please remember to register: tinyurl.com/mswfhk8v 7555 Jackson Blvd., Forest Park.

Mamma Mia, the Musical

Saturday, March 4 & 11 at 7 p.m., Sunday, March 5 & 12 at 2 p.m. ABBA songs tell the stor y of a young woman’s search for her bir th father. On the eve of her wedding, a daughter’s quest to discover the identity of her father brings three men from her mother ’s past back to the island they last visited 20 years ago. A mother. A daughter. Three possible dates. And a trip down the aisle. OPRF High School Auditorium, 201 N. Scoville Ave. Directed by Michelle Bayer.

March 1-8

BIG WEEK

American Girl Tea Part y

Wednesday, March 8, 4-5 p.m., Oak Park Public Librar y Celebrate International Women’s Day by exploring histor y through American Girl Dolls. Crafts will be made, and tea will be served with snacks. Dolls are also welcome to attend. Dressing up in historical costumes is encouraged. Register now at oppl.org/ calendar. 834 Lake St., Oak Park.

Women’s Histor y Month Pic tionar y

Monday, March 6, 4 - 5 p.m., Forest Park Public Librar y Draw clues to help us guess your favorite woman or girl from history or ction. Ages 8 to 10. Register: tinyurl. com/3vnava5z. 7555 Jackson Blvd., Forest Park

Julia Child: A Living Histor y Portrayal by Leslie Goddard

St. Patrick ’s Day Parade

Saturday, March 4, 1-3 p.m., Madison Street Family-friendly festivities. Madison Street, Forest Park

Family, Food & Murder: What Makes A Cozy Myster y Series

Monday, March 6, 1:15-2:15 p.m., Nineteenth Centur y Charitable Organization

Mia P. Manansala, author of Tita Rosie’s Kitchen Mysteries, will discuss the “coz y” mystery subgenrewhat makes a novel that way, as well as how the book evolves Free, but a $15 donation from non-members is suggested. For more information, visit http://www nineteenthcentury.org. 178 Forest Ave., Oak Park.

Sunday, March 5, 2-3:30 p.m., River Forest Public Library Ac tress and scholar Leslie Goddard brings the late chef and television show host Julia Child to life through this live dramatization. 735 Lathrop Ave., River Forest

Listing your event

Forest Park Review welcomes notices about events that Forest Park groups and businesses are planning. We’ll work to get the word out if you let us know what’s happening by noon Wednesday a week before your news needs to be in the newspaper

■ Send details to Wednesday Jour nal, 141 S. Oak Park Ave., Oak Park, 60302

■ Email calendar@wjinc.com

Our beautiful 6-story building provides quality, a ordable, independent housing for seniors. e Oaks o ers studio and one-bedroom apartments, with kitchens and private bathrooms. Amenities include an award winning interior landscaped atrium, central meeting room, library, laundry facilities, computer learning center, internet access, electronic key entry system, and parking.

On-site management includes 24/7 emergency maintenance service and a senior services coordinator who is available during business hours to assist residents in accessing service

agencies and programs designed speci cally for seniors. e Oaks is owned and operated by the Oak Park Residence Corporation and is funded by the US Department of Housing and Ur-ban Development through the 202/ Section 8 Program. Monthly rent is based on the resident’s income, with individuals paying approximately 30% of their monthly income toward rent. For more information, please visit us at www.oakparkrc.com or contact us at 708-386-5862.

HEALTH BOARD Emphasis on mental health

from page 1

The changes approved during the Feb. 27 village council meeting not only set down a new mandate but added the requirement that the board meet at least once a month and did away with the requirement that the public health and safety commissioner recommend the nominees, leaving the candidate selection at the mayor’s sole discretion. And while the village considered waiving residency requirements for board members on a case-by-case basis, the village council ended up kee ping it, with commissioners reasoning that Forest Park already had plenty of well-qualified exper ts In recent months, Forest Park has put an increasing emphasis on mental health. During the Jan. 23 special village council meeting on plans for spending American Recovery Plan Act funds, Village Administrator Moses Amidei recommended allocating $30,000 toward mental health assistance

During the same meeting, he mentioned that he, Maxham and other village of ficials

CANNABIS

Dispensary approved

from page 3

he wrote. “I cannot with authority advise if the parking complaints or motor vehicle theft were directly related to MedMen.”

Gross concluded that “cannabis dispensaries do not appear to cause a strain on police resources.”

Zaveduk boasted that the store would have interior security cameras an average of every 600 feet, as well as exterior cameras covering every cor ner. He said there will be one security guard looking at the camera feeds and a security guard out front at any given time. As per state law, Forest Park police will be able to access the security feeds any time.

“When you’ re adding a dispensary, you’ re adding those features, you’ re adding security to your neighborhood,” Zaveduk said.

He said the company will hire locally, reaching out online and posting “old-fashioned” fliers with tear-off tabs at grocery stores and other public locations

had been discussing “reinvigorating the [board of health] specifically as a mental health board.”

The village is also working with the Proviso Township Mental Health Commission to org anize a mental health expo. The event, which is tentatively scheduled for May 6, aims to give residents a better sense of what kind of mental health resources are out there and to reduce the stigma about seeking help for mental health issues.

The local health board was established in 2002, but it, like many other village advisory boards, committees and commissions, quietly faded away over time But the board remained on the books, and, similarly to the Environmental Control Commission, Maxham decided to take advantage of what was already there.

“We thought it would be a great way to bring in some experts — right now in mental health, but I don’t think it’s going to be limited to that,” she said.

The Forest Park municipal code originally defined the health board’s duties as “having “management and control of all matters and things relating to the public health of the village,” but did not elaborate on what that entailed. The board was to have five members who are village resi-

Acting commission chair Ker ri McBride asked whether Justice Cannabis experienced any loitering issues Zaveduk responded that they intend to strictly enforce the state law prohibiting cannabis consumption in public and call police if necessary – but he doesn’t expect it to be much of an issue.

“Our typical purchaser, as we say — no one is going to sit in the parking lot and par take,” he said. “That’s not why they’re purchasing it.”

About 20 people showed up to the meeting. Phil Moeller, the developer behind Forest Oaks, said that he shared concer ns he heard from many of the development’s residents

“We do not ag ree [with Justice Cannabis’ asser tion] that the proposed dispensary will not disturb existing residents living adjacent to the facility,” he said. “The petitioners failed to take properly into consideration immediate surrounding uses.”

Gino Pisano, who recently moved to Forest Park from River Forest, argued that the lot was a gateway into Forest Park –and the village should put something else there.

“It could be a new village hall, it could re-

dents, and who would be appointed for fiveyear ter ms “by the mayor upon the recommendation of the commissioner of health and safety, by and with the consent of the village council.”

The village council was originally supposed to approve the changes to the Board of Health structure during its Feb. 13 meeting. The ordinance included in the meeting packet ke pt the appointment process language but allowed mayors the discretion to nominate non-residents who “possesses technical training, knowledge, or experience which will enhance the composition of the board.”

The version that went before the board on Feb. 27 took out the language about the public health commissioner recommending the appointments, leaving the selection at the sole discretion of the mayor. It also capped the number of non-residents that could be appointed to the board at two.

Both versions of the amendment added language requiring the board to meet once a month. It removed the language about “management and control” and re placed it with the language specifying that the board will make policy recommendations to the village council on “matters per taining to the public health of the village, including but not limited to mental and phys-

ical health.”

Maxham said they originally wanted to have the option to appoint non-residents so that they would be able to take advantage of the exper tise of professionals who worked in Forest Park but didn’t live there – for example, someone who works for Riveredge Hospital mental health treatment center, 8311 Roosevelt Rd. The other commissioners persuaded her that it wasn’t necessary.

“[But] the other commissioners feel we can find people from Forest Park, and I think that to be true,” Maxham said.

Commissioner Ryan Nero said he was eager to see the new Board of Health get of f the ground, saying that expanding mental health resources and support was important to him.

“We need to bring awareness to it, get folks engaged,” he said.

Mayor Rory Hoskins said he doesn’t expect to have any issues finding candidates.

“We happen to be located next to one of the largest medical districts in the country, and we have a lot of mental health professionals,” he said. “I have no doubt that we’ ll have a lot of qualified people who will be willing to serve.”

ally make the suburbs something special,” he said. “Bed Bath and Beyond is leaving — I think that would be a better site for a dispensary, because it’s not a prime site.”

Edward Lee said that he lives 2.5 blocks from the site, and, as someone who used to take the el to work, he was familiar with

safety concer ns. But based on what he’s seen in dispensaries in other states, he didn’t share other speakers’ concer ns

“From a security standpoint, you know, they really go through a lot of measures to make sure that people are safe. It’s just what I experienced,” he said.

IGOR STUDENKOV/Sta Repor ter

Twenty residents attended the Planning and Zoning Commission meeting.

Librar y director looks to grow community partnerships

Emphasizes accessibility, diversity of resources

By IGOR STUDENKOV Staff Reporter

Growing up in the wester n suburbs, Vicki Rakowski was “very familiar” with the Forest Park library, and the village in general. This is where she be g an her career as a librarian – and she said the lessons she lear ned as Youth Services reference assistant stayed with her for the next 14 years.

“I lear ned a lot about how to work with kids. I lear ned a lot about how to work with the community So it was wonderful to be able to put to gether what I lear ned here, and what I lear ned at library school at Dominican [University],” Rakowski told the Review. “This community has been special to me for this reason alone.”

Now, she has retur ned to the library, this time as executive director, after working her way up the ranks in library districts throughout the Chicago area. Most recently, she served as executive director at the Bar rington Area Library District, which collectively serves all or par ts of 17 municipalities (five of which have “Bar rington” in their name) across four dif ferent counties in the nor thwest suburbs. Forest Park’s library board approved her hiring Dec. 12, 2022, touting her “experience and empathy.”

Rakowski said that, after only about a month on the job, she is focusing on getting to know the staf f and the community. In the long run, she hopes to expand collaborations with other public bodies and private org anizations, especially local schools. And, with the rising number of challenges being made against the content of books in library collections, Rakowski said she would engage with the complaints while defending patrons’ rights to access materials that suit their needs and tastes

Her first stint at the Forest Park library

was from Se ptember 2008 to July 2009. Rakowski went on to work in several west sub urban libraries. She joined the Bar rington Area Library District in 2017, becoming its executive director in February 2021. Rakowski said she wasn’t actively seeking another position, but when she saw the Forest Park library was hiring, she couldn’t pass up the oppor tunity

“I didn’t think that this oppor tunity would come up, just because [previous li brary director Pilar Shaker] – she’s about at the same point in her career as I am,” she said. “I was just really sur prised and excited that that job opened up.”

The fact that she and her husband have lived in Oak Park since 2016 and the job would mean a shor ter commute didn’t hur t – but Rakowski said that it wasn’t the main reason why she was excited.

“If the pandemic taught me anything, if you’ re lucky enough to put the energy in a place that means something to you, that you should take this oppor tunity,” she said, adding that, as she went through the interview process, she was increasingly sure that it would be the right choice

“The first year is really just about getting to know everybody and making sure that you have an understanding, if you’ re [making] the change and you want to do something dif ferently, that you understand what the impact of change might be,” she said.

That isn’t to say that Rakowski doesn’t have broad priorities. She reflected that, as the country comes out of the pandemic and people are retur ning to the library, they want to make sure they provide whatever patrons need – and meet them wherever they are. If the patrons only use online resources and never set foot at the library, Rakowski said, that’s perfectly OK

“In the library, we’re always looking to serve better, and making sure that literally everyone in town has something for them,” she said.

As par t of that, Rakowski wants to build on the district’s relations with the village,

the Forest Park Chamber of Commerce, Forest Park School District 91 and Proviso Township High School District 209.

“I think for us, one of our big goals is to get into the two school districts even further, see what we can do to help, how we can suppor t them,” she said.

Rakowski said the library can help schools by providing resources for teachers, working to gether on programming and providing space for events They also want to get students library cards, since it would allow them to check out books and other materials that may not be available at their school libraries.

“Sometimes, it’s providing a support, sometimes it’s providing a program, sometimes it’s providing a par tnership, sometimes it’s providing space for meetings,” Rakowski said.

In recent years, the library has been working with the Mohr Community Center and the village in general to assist homeless patrons who use the library to wash up, access computers and other resources, or generally to spend time Rakowski said she’s been impressed with the work the library has already been doing, and she plans to keep an eye open for anything else they can do to help those patrons and connect them to resources outside the library.

“The most impor tant thing we can do is pay attention, be open-minded, and be

able to help with the resources we can help with,” she said.

The question of what kind of materials libraries circulate has increasingly become a hot-button issue The American Library Association found that between Jan. 1 and Aug. 31, 2022, there have been “681 attempts to ban or restrict library resources, and 1,651 unique titles were targeted.” The issue surfaced in Riverside in December 2022, when two residents asked Riverside Public Library Director Janice Foley to remove Gender Queer – a request that the library board denied.

Rakowski said that she has “a deep respect for the first amendment” and that “our entire job is to provide access, free of judgment, to the materials that the community desires and needs.” If she gets those requests, she will try her best to eng age with the patrons.

“If you see the book that you don’t like or don’t ag ree with, it would be our pleasure to find one that you do,” she said.

Overall, Rakowski said she was looking forward to what the job will bring.

“I still have the ar t that children made for me when I [previously] worked here,” she reflected. “To be able to come back is just special, and it’s not something a lot of people get – to be able to come back to a place that meant so much to you personally. It’s just great to come full circle.”

IGOR STUDENKOV/Sta Repor ter

Vicki Rakowski

Council OKs meat processing in south Forest Park industrial district

Changes designed to accommodate existing and proposed meat wholesalers

By IGOR STUDENKOV Staff Reporter

The Forest Park Village Council voted unanimously to approve the changes to the zoning code governing industrial districts that will, most notably, allow meat processing businesses in the industrial areas at the south end of the village

Under the previous zoning re gulations, meat processing businesses were not allowed in the I-2 district located along Industrial Drive, which runs east for about a half mile from the 1700 block of Desplaines Avenue.

The problem is that the village previously allowed Weinstein Wholesale Meat to open in the I-2 district, at 7501 Industrial Dr

Purely Meats, a meat wholesaler and butcher shop based in Chicago’s Humboldt Park neighborhood, 4345 W. Division St., intends to move to 7500 Industrial Dr Steve Glinke. Forest Park’s public health and safety chief, said Weinstein was allowed in before his time, but because it was already there, he was originally under impression that meat processers were allowed by right.

Once he realized that it wasn’t the case, he requested a change in the zoning code to both bring Weinstein into compliance and allow Purely Meats to move in. The Forest Park Planning and Zoning Commission recommended the change on Jan. 17, sending it to the village council for final approval.

Forest Park has two types of industrial zoning districts – the lighter-industry I-1 districts and the heavier-industry I-2 districts The newly approved changes create se parate lists of prohibited uses for both districts

Both districts prohibit anything involving hazardous chemicals, production and

processing of fossil fuels and asphalt, making cotton textile products, operations involving “cor rosive and noxious chemicals,” including paint manufacturing.

I-1’s prohibition on storing junk, paper and scrap materials out in the open will remain in place as well, and so will the prohibition on explosives and fireworks manufacturers.

While meat processing is now allowed in I-2, fat rendering, as well as slaughterhouse and stockyard operations, are still prohibited. And, unlike in I-1, the new language prohibits manufacturing involving creosote, a substance used to preserve wood and burn malignant tissue. The chemical is toxic in large doses and has potential to cause cancer.

Resident Thomas Kovac, who re peatedly complained about another meat processor and wholesaler, Farmington Foods, near his home in nor th Forest Park, at one point sued that company.

During the Jan. 17 meeting, he argued that the same issues he complained about – the meat odors and increased emissions

from truck traf fic would af fect the residents nor th of the Industrial Drive proper ty.

He told the Review that he wasn’t just wor ried about the Industrial Drive site, but the parcels occupied by the U.S. Post Of fice distribution facility and the recently vacated U.S. Ar my Reserve base, which are closer to residential homes and are zoned I-2. There is a block-wide I-1 district between those parcels and the residential areas Kovac reiterated those objections in a statement submitted to the village, a copy of which was provided to the Review. He also argued that people may underestimate the impact of living next to a meat processor

“The odor [coming from Farmington] is most unpleasant and nothing like that from a food truck, restaurant kitchen or back yard g rill,” he wrote. “My residence at times is totally blanketed by such odor which may extend for blocks away from the plant itself At times I have vacated my home and sur rounding neighborhood to escape the impact of Farmington Foods.”

SURE,

BY THE WHOLE PEEING STANDING UP THING.

BUT I TAUGHT HIM TO THROW A STICK AND NOW HANGING OUT WITH HIM IS THE BEST PART OF MY DAY.

SURE,

AT FIRST I WAS A LITTLE TAKEN ABACK BY THE WHOLE PEEING STANDING UP THING. BUT I TAUGHT HIM TO THROW A STICK AND NOW HANGING OUT WITH HIM IS THE BEST PART OF MY DAY.

AT FIRST I WAS A LITTLE TAKEN ABACK BY THE WHOLE PEEING STANDING UP THING. BUT I TAUGHT HIM TO THROW A STICK AND NOW HANGING OUT WITH HIM IS THE BEST PART OF MY DAY.

SURE,

Work with an agent who will do more than just sell your home.

EINSTEIN adopted 12-09-10

—

AT FIRST I WAS A LITTLE TAKEN ABACK BY THE WHOLE PEEING STANDING UP THING. BUT I TAUGHT HIM TO THROW A STICK AND NOW HANGING OUT WITH HIM IS THE BEST PART OF MY DAY. — EINSTEIN adopted 12-09-10

—

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

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

A safe & smart choice.

A safe & smart choice.

A safe & smart choice.

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

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

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.

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

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.

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

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

99% OF OUR CALEDONIA STAFF IS VACCINATED

Winds cause small portion of West Sub façade to fall

Collapse occurred on vacant former nursing school building

By STACEY SHERIDAN Staff Reporter

the day.

Accessto Care & the CookCounty Department of Public Healthwork togetherto educate &protect communities against COVID-19 and flu.

Is seeing a local doctor too expensive?

The building was inspected by village inspectors and the hospital’s masonry contractor and structural engineer. Village staff ordered safety fencing and scaffolding to be erected. The village had not issued any prior code violation notices regarding the building.

¿Es demasiado caro ver a un médico local?

High winds apparently caused a portion of the brick façade on a building on the campus of West Suburban Medical Center to detach and fall to the ground on Feb. 21. No one was injured during the incident at the old and vacant school of nursing which fronts Erie Street just west of Austin Blvd.

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Like e sharing g life's s most t meaningful l moments, , show w your r family y and d friends s you u love e them. . Help p them m (and d yourself!) ) stay y up p to o date e on n free e COVID-19 9 and d flu u vaccines Vaccination n continues s to o be e our r best t weapon n against t COVID D and d flu

“It appeared approximately 5-feet x 30-feet, plus or minus, of brick veneer had dislodged from the structure above the top floor on the northern wall,” said Tammie Grossman, Oak Park development customer services director.

Access to Care can help!

A professional engineering evaluation of the impacted area, as well as an overall building evaluation, was conducted the afternoon of the accident. Prasad told Wednesday Jour nal the following mor ning that he’d received a verbal report that the building was structurally sound.

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¿Necesita surtir sus recetas?

¿No es elegible para Medicaid/Medicare?

“We will get the facade repaired as permitted by the village,” he said.

No services are provided out of the building, so the accident did not cause any lapse in patient

Everyone e 6 months s and d older r is s eligible e to o receive e a COVID vaccine e (1st, , 2nd d and d 3rd d doses) ) & a flu u shot. . You u can n be e vaccinated d or r boosted d for r COVID D & vaccinated d for r flu u at t the e same e time. .

The building has not been in use since nursing school shut down, roughly a decade

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The bricks fell at about 7:15 a.m., Feb. 21, according to Manoj Prasad, CEO of Resilience Healthcare. The Village of Oak Park was notified of the accident not long after and emergency personnel blocked the street from traffic, while village staff discussed the situation with West Suburban’s maintenance staff. The situation was monitored throughout

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The Village of Oak Park’s Neighborhood Services Division remains in communication with West Suburban staff and is continuing to monitor the site, according to Grossman.

A 5-foot x 30-foot section of brick façade fell from an unused building on the West Sub canpus last week .

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Plan de recetas más baratas Surtir recetas en una farmacia local

GRATIS:

Además s de e compartir r los s momentos s más s importantes s en n la a vida, , muéstrale e a tu u familia a y amigos s (¡y y a ti i mismo!) ) que e los s amas. . Ayúdelos s a mantenerse e al l día a con n las s vacunas s gratuitas s contra a el l COVID-19 9 y la a gripe. . La a vacunacción n sigue e siendo o nuestra a mejor r arma a contra a el l COVID D y la a gripe

Tiras de prueba para diabéticos Vacunas contra la gripe y la neumonía

Si tiene más de 19 años, vive en los suburbios del condado de Cook o en el noroeste de Chicago y no es elegible para Medicaid o Medicare, Access to Care puede conectarlo con un médico local.

Help with non-medical services

Información de salud y bienestar Ayuda con servicios afuera de lo médico

With Access to Care, you can see a doctor for a $5 co-pay; get lab work, x-rays, and mammograms for $5; prescriptions are $15 to $40, and counseling sessions are $5. Access to Care also offers free diabetic test strips and free flu and pneumonia vaccines.

Screening for Medicaid eligibility

Todas s las s personas s mayores s de e 6 meses s son n elegibles s para a recibir r una a vacuna a contra a el l COVID D ( (primera, , segunda a y tercera a dosis) ) y una a vacuna a contra a la a gripe. . Puede e vacunarse e o reforzarse e contra a COVID D y la a gripe e al l mismo o tiempo Visite e www.BoostUpCookCounty.com m o llame e al l 833-308-1988. .

Evaluación de elegibilidad para Medicaid

Con Access to Care, puede ver a un médico por un copago de $5; obtenga análisis de laboratorio, radiografías y mamografías por $5; las recetas cuestan entre $15 y $40, y las sesiones de asesoramiento cuestan $5. Access to Care también ofrece tiras reactivas gratuitas para diabéticos y vacunas gratuitas contra la gripe y la neumonía.

Access to Care is a non-profit primary health care program that helps those without health insurance AND those with health insurance that carries a too-high annual deductible. Access to Care does not discriminate and welcomes undocumented individuals. If you or anyone you know is without accessible, affordable health care, apply online: www.accesstocare.org or call our office at 708-531-0680. Our staff speaks Spanish.

Apply online

and d older r is s eligible e to o receive e a COVID D vaccine e (1st, , 2nd d and d 3rd d doses) ) n be e vaccinated d or r boosted d for r COVID D & vaccinated d for r flu u at t the e same e time. . Visit t www BoostUpCookCounty com m or r call l 833-308-1988 yel Departamentode Salud Pública del Condado de Cook trabajara educary proteger a las comunidades contraCOVID-19 y la gripe.

artir r los s momentos s en n la a vida, , muéstrale e a s (¡y y a ti i mismo!) ) que e s a mantenerse e al l día a atuitas s contra a el l

833-308-1988

healthycook@cookcountyhhs.org

cookcountypublichealth.org

Access to Care es un programa de atención médica primaria sin fines de lucro que ayuda a quienes no tienen seguro médico Y a quienes tienen un seguro médico que tiene un deducible anual demasiado alto. Access to Care no discrimina y da la bienvenida a personas indocumentadas. Si usted o alguien que conoce no tiene atención médica asequible y accesible, solicite en línea: www.accesstocare.org o llame a nuestra oficina al 708-531-0680. Nuestro personal habla español.

708-531-0680

info@accesstocare.org

accesstocare.org

Looking back at West Sub’s School of Nursing

The building on the West Suburban Medical Center campus, which suffered a brick façade failure last week, is the long empty School of Nursing. We asked the Historical Society of Oak Park and River Forest to scour its archives for images from back

in the day.

The two nurses perched on the ledge with the West Side as the background were part of an early 1940s nursing class. The building also featured a rooftop garden which was a lovely lunch spot.

Forest Park assists in pursuit of suspect in Broadview murder

Forest Park police officers tried to help their colleagues in other area departments chase down a man suspected of a murder in Broadview and making a threatening call to Forest Park’s Living World Christian Center, 7600 Roosevelt Rd.

According to the Cook County Coroner’s re port, Pier re Johnson, a 39-year-old Broadview man, died of multiple gunshot wounds. He was shot on the morning of Feb. 23.

On Feb. 25, at around 1:21 a.m. local police got a call about a suspect in that case heading east on the Eisenhower Expressway in a white 2020 Nissan Altima, with a Bellwood Police Department patrol car in pursuit. By the time the chase reached Forest Park, a Maywood police car joined in the chase. The Forest Park patrol car joined the chase at the Harlem Avenue onramp.

The suspect exited the Eisenhower at Central Avenue and headed south. While the Maywood officers stopped the pursuit, Forest Park and Bellwood officers maintained the chase as the suspect turned east on Roosevelt Road. The officers lost sight of the vehicle at the Roosevelt Road and Cicero Avenue intersection.

Chicago police subsequently found the suspect’s car abandoned in the Austin neighborhood, on the 4800 block of Polk Street.

Stolen gun

A nightclub promoter had his gun and a magazine with 17 bullets stolen from his car sometime in February.

The victim said he ke pt his Glock 22 handgun in his car, a 2004 Dodge. He discovered the theft on the morning of Feb. 22, when he headed out to a shooting range and checked the car’s gun case. The victim’s car was parked in front of his residence in the 300 block of Desplaines Avenue, and there was no sign of forced entry.

The victim said the gun could have been stolen at any point between then and the night of Feb. 9. He said that, in that time, he gave “multiple acquaintances” rides, and there have been times when they drove him home when he was drunk. The vic-

tim said he only knew them by their nicknames, so he couldn’t provide much identifying information.

The victim said he would press charges if the thief is located.

Stolen wallet

A customer at the Planet Fitness location at 7530 Roosevelt Rd. had his wallet stolen from the gym’s locker.

The victim said the theft happened when he visited the gym on Feb. 21, between 4:50 p.m. and 6:15 p.m. He left the wallet in a locker. The wallet had around $143 in cash, state ID, a driver’s license, a debit card and multiple credit cards.

The victim said he cancelled all his credit cards as soon as he discovered the theft. He didn’t see any suspicious transactions.

Liquor store shoplifting

A woman ran out of the Cardinal Liquors store on Roosevelt Road with five liquor bottles valued at a total of $180.95.

The suspect entered the liquor store on Feb. 24 at 12:44 p.m. According to a store employee, she put two bottles of Avion Tequila, a bottle of Ciroc vodka, a bottle of Casamigos tequila and a bottle of 1800 tequila and put them in a basket. But instead of paying for them, she ran outside and got into a waiting car – a black Chevy Trailblazer with a temporary license plate. The car fled east on Roosevelt Road.

Confrontation at Starbucks

A woman tried to chase down a car driven by a man who, she claims, shouted a racial slur at her and damaged her car’s window.

The woman said that, on Feb. 23, at around 9:20 a.m., she drove up to a Starbucks location at 7231 Madison St. to pick up her order. As she parked in front of the store, a driver parked behind her allegedly shouted a sarcastic comment about her ability to park, ending it with a racial slur. The woman, who belongs to the racial group the slur referred to, gave the man a middle finger and went inside.

As the woman went back to her car, she thought she saw the man’s car, a silver 2009 Honda Odyssey, was now alongside her car, a dark blue 2017 Mercedes-Benz. The woman believed that the man might have pushed the passenger side mirror in, but she didn’t actually see him do it.

The woman said she yelled at the man and threw her coffee at the car. The man drove of f, and the woman chased the vehicle down until she was able to take a picture of its license plate number with her phone.

The woman said she didn’t want to pr ess charges, but she filed the police re port because it was her favorite Starbucks location and she was wor ried about her safety.

When contacted by police, the man acknowledged that he made a derisive comment about the woman’s parking skills, but he denied using a racial slur. He also denied damaging the woman’s car, and alle ged that she threw multiple items at his car while driving after him.

These items were obtained from police reports filed by the Forest Park Police Department, Feb. 20-26, and re present a portion of the incidents to which police responded. Unless otherwise indicated, anybody named in these re ports has only been charged with a crime. These cases have not been adjudicated.

Compiled by Igor Studenkov

A thousand-foot serpent & Cincinnati Chili

Monsters and mysteries in Ohio

By DAVID HAMMOND Oak Park Eats Blog

We drove through Ohio to visit the Ser pent Mound, a 1,348-foot-long, 3-foot high, ear then re presentation of a ser pent with its mouth gaping wide, apparently trying to swallow an egg — or perhaps the moon or sun. No one knows exactly what the giant snake is swallowing. In fact, no one even knows who built this mound. Or why. Or when.

The Serpent Mound is perhaps 3,000 years old. Lots of mystery surrounds this mound. Some have posited that the bends and curls of this monstrous serpent are aligned with celestial bodies, but much about this ancient Native American work of ar t remains unknown.

Not far from Serpent Mound is the Hopewell Mound Group, the ear then remains of an ancient “city” built by yet another indigenous group In approximately 300 square acres are several pyramidal mounds Most of the mounds were leveled in the early 20th century when, shor tly after the U.S. entered WWI, a training camp was built on the site. It seems a monstrous act, but such destruction of indigenous culture is not rare. St. Louis, once called Mound City because it contained so many native ear thworks, was built over destroyed mound structures

Across the Mississippi in Collinsville, Illinois, the great pre-Columbian city of Cahokia was, for the most part, leveled to accommodate a housing development and a drive-in movie theater (now both demolished, though one of the mid-century houses remains to re p-

resent one period of the archaeological record).

Traveling through the U.S., we’re always interested in what the “natives” are eating.

In Cincinnati, the local dish is chili, 3, 4 or 5 ways This is not chili most of us would

reco gnize: spaghetti in a very light tomatobased sauce that contains Mediter ranean spices like oreg ano, paprika, and cumin. Add shreds of mild cheddar, and it’s a 3-way; add onions or beans, a 4-way; add onions and beans, a 5-way. This seemed to me a monstrous concoction, with way too much flavorless cheese, limp noodles, and a vapid sauce.

So what explains the love Cincinnatians feel for this … mess? Because it’s theirs, a local dish they call their own and that is, for locals, comfort food. I’ve seen seemingly strange food like this all over the country, including Chicagoland.

Next month will see the publication of Made in Chica go: Stories Behind 30 Great Hometown Bites This book, co-authored by myself and Monica Eng, investigates the history behind 30 local and beloved dishes that might easily re pel some, like the Mother-in-Law (a tamale in a hot do g bun, covered in chili) or the Breaded Steak Sandwich (a friend of mine said it was like eating moist, breaded carpet padding).

When it comes to local dishes, if you’ re not from the locality, you’ ll likely find yourself bewildered by foods that have become popular for reasons that are as mysterious as those behind building a gig antic ser pent mound.

Serpent Mound is located at 3850 State Route 73, Peebles, OH; it’s about a six-hour driv e from Oak Park, so you’ ll probably want to stay ov er night.

PHOTO DAVID HAMMOND

Undulating coils of Serpent Mound

PHOTO DAVID HAMMOND

5-Way Chili

Why Proviso 209 United team supports Hixson, Barbahen, Ocampo

We, the team behind Sandra Hixson, Jenny Barbahen and David Ocampo known as Proviso 209 United, would like to share why we are so incredibly passionate about electing these three parents and subject matter exper ts to the school board. Elections are a referendum on the incumbents and the following events of the last few years make it incredibly clear that we need reform, yes, again.

This current board unanimously voted to hire the superintendent in August of 2020. At that time, [Dr. James Henderson] sold to the board, and our Proviso community including many of us, a vision of greatness for our schools It became clear almost two years ago on February 23, 2021, during a sur prise Saturday mor ning board meeting that Henderson had a very dif ferent vision

of what makes a great school district. This vision consisted of ending par tnerships with PAEC (special education), outsourcing IT, and other radical cuts in the name of tur ning a profit with austerity budgeting rather than educating our children. As we emailed, called, and pleaded with our trusted board members for clarity, we saw them support the measures dismantling much of the recent progress made This was hear tbreaking to say the least. We felt defeated. We felt hopeless

the right direction, connection with the community, connection with teachers and staf f, fiscal accountability, and transparency. When we do what is right for a united Proviso, we will usher in an era of success for ALL Proviso students.

PROVISO 209 UNITED One View

Not anymore. Proviso 209 United was for med to restore that hope. Restore our schools Put our students first. Bring back the values that got the district heading in

LET TER

After months of searching and careful vetting, in August 2022 we chose and announced our slate of three candidates: Sandra Jose ph-Hixson, Jenny Barbahen and David Ocampo. These three candidates to gether re present the brightest and best future for the students in our district. It’s that simple

It is imperative to not just gain a favorable board balance but to also restore decorum and professionalism to the governing

ThisSaturday is early St. Patt y’s in Forest Park

We’re not expecting half a million people like they are in Dublin, but the Forest Park Chamber’s St. Patrick’s Day parade is cer tainly our most popular event and our attendance numbers are just as impressive for a town our size. Attendance reached an all-time high last year at an estimated crowd of 10,000 people.

We host the parade early in March – typically two weekends before St. Patrick’s Day weekend. The Chamber chose that path initially to ensure that we didn’t compete with local or city parades for entrants or attendance, and to also allow for a second day of celebration. Folks always come out on St. Patrick’s Day. By hosting it before the ‘of ficial’ St. Pat’s weekend, we’re bringing people to Forest Park twice.

People often remark that the weather would be better if we moved the date back, but that’s not how Chicago-area weather rolls For example, last year’s parade day temperature was 70 de grees Granted, that’s really great weather for March, but the temperature on the following Saturday was 24 de grees. Over the last 26 years, it’s gone the other way of course, but Forest Park St. Pat’s Parade Day parade-goers are in it to win it so we always have a great tur nout.

As with any event we host, sponsors are key to making the parade happen. Their support allows us to create an enter taining line-up that includes entries like Medinah Shriner’s parade units who receive an hono-

rarium for participating. Event sponsorship also suppor ts the overall work of the Chamber.

Thank you to this year’s main sponsors: Title Sponsors: O’Sullivan’s Public House; Fiore Pizzeria & Bakery; Ironworkers Local 1. Adver tising Sponsors: Burke Beverage; The Gillian Baker Team; Village of Forest Park; Mohr Oil Company; Christopher B. Burke Engineering, Ltd; Fatduck Tavern & Grill; Speaker of the Illinois House Emanuel Chris Welch; Re public Services, Riveredge Hospital, Cur rie Motors and Caf fe DeLuca.

Shamrock Sponsors: Forest Park Bakery; Little Teeth Big Smiles/Children’s Dentistry; Let’s Play Work; Shanahan’s; Scratch Kitchen; Park District of Forest Park; Jessica Voogd for Commissioner; Our Planet Automotive; Progress Center; and Toothbuds Pediatric Dentistry.

I also want to thank every single member of the Forest Park Chamber of Commerce for their support. Together with the village and other key org anizations, we all work to gether to keep Forest Park strong.

Happy parade day and happy St. Patrick’s Day to one and all.

Laurie Kokenes Ex ecuti ve Director Forest Park Chamber of Commerce

body of the school district. Hixson, Barbahen and Ocampo will be deliberate and methodical as they work to restore transparency and order to the board, thoroughly evaluating the district from top to bottom in a careful review process.

While these are only three seats on a seven-person board, [cur rent school board member] Amanda Grant has of ficially endorsed our team, and to gether we will have the ability to ef fect change from day one Even though the board has lost its way over the last 2.5 years, we see a bright future for Proviso and District 209.

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.

Kathleen Franzwa, Carissa Gillespie, Eileen Olivier, Fred Franzwa, Jordan Kuehn Proviso 209 United campaign mana gers

Mental health focus W

e have commented in the past on ef for ts by the cur rent village board and administration to find new ways to go after challenges that other towns sometimes just toss money at.

Monday night, in resuscitating the longdor mant Board of Health, the village council found a path to bring attention, and just a bit of financial suppor t, to rising mental health issues facing this village and every community in the country. The choice recognizes that Forest Park will never be a direct provider on issues related to mental health services. And maybe it doesn’t have to be to still do something worthy

Once again calling on Forest Park’s reservoir of talented volunteers, the Board of Health — sor t of a fancy name for a citizen commission — will work to educate, elevate and connect. There is already a range of mental health services in and around Forest Park. You can star t with Riveredge Hospital on Roosevelt Road, plus a wide range of nonprofit providers to be tapped. Till now, as it has traditionally done, Forest Park has been oblivious to the existing Proviso Township Mental Health Commission, a taxpayer-funded entity serving all of Proviso. That connection has now been made. In fact a plan is being developed for a shared Mental Health Expo as early as May.

Central to all mental health initiatives is simply to openly reco gnize, respect and remove stigma from the discussion. This ef fort by Forest Park and its newly reconstituted Board of Health is a solid star t.

The real St. Patrick’s day

Don’t let anyone tell you that this Saturday, March 4, is not St. Patrick’s Day. Sure, your store-bought calendar or Google device may say St. Pat’s is on March 17. But if you are from around here, the real event is this Saturday and it is Forest Park-centric

The annual St. Pat’s parade will draw a cast of thousands, an ar ray of marchers, including both your local newspaper folks and some guys in fuzzy hats on teeny vehicles. It is your guarantee that spring is right on the cusp. It is an oppor tunity, if you need an invite, to drink some beer and eat Ireland’s one heralded dish.

Sponsored as always by the ever-energetic Forest Park Chamber of Commerce, the parade is plain fun with a small town, big city vibe. Last year, when the parade came back after COVID, the crowd estimate was 10,000 souls. A happier group will be hard to find. Be there.

OPINION

Contentment ‘trumps’ euphoria

Two weeks ago, Pastor Walter Mitty decided to bring communion to two of his shut-ins, Aunt Dolly and her husband Adolf The dashboard in his car said the temperature outside was 33 degrees. It was one of those cold, rainy mor nings that chilled a person to the bone.

When he walked in their apartment, Adolf was watching WGN and their Dachshund, named Wiener, was on Aunt Dolly’s lap. Both were snoring.

“Tom Skilling says it’s going to get nasty today,” was Adolf ’s greeting as his pastor took his usual seat in the rocking chair by the window.

“It’s already nasty,” said Mitty with a smile.

HOLMES

The date on the calendar on Mitty’s desk read Feb. 16. Sure enough, Tom Skilling had the prediction right, and by noon the pavement was covered with black ice.

That evening he didn’t feel like cooking so he made a quick supper of sandwiches with Johnsonville summer sausage and Natural Ovens whole wheat bread. After microwaving the sandwiches, he opened a bottle of Spotted Cow, lit a candle on the coffee table in the living room, and watched the snowstor m ongoing outside

He had tur ned up the heat when he got home from his office, but he still felt chilled, so after dinner he covered his lap with the afghan made of granny squares his mother had crocheted for him as an ordination present 20 years ago.

Instead of tur ning on the TV, he found himself staring out the living room window at the snow being driven horizontally by the roaring 40-mile-an-hour wind, which made the naked tree branches, festooned with frozen raindrops outside his window, swing violently back and forth.

He lost track of time, mesmerized by the stor m. It was like what happened to him when he was camping at Point Beach. He would stare at the campfire or the waves rolling in off Lake Michigan for the longest time.

The cozy lap blanket his mother had made for him made him feel not only war med but safe, like he used to feel after his dad had tucked him into bed.

He decided that “contentment” was the word he would use to describe how he was feeling

Two days earlier on Valentine’s Day, the word was “lonely.” On the whole he didn’t mind being single and a card from Susan and his two nephews back in Manitowoc had made him feel somewhat connected, but still … he realized that something was missing.

But this Thursday evening as he watched the storm

from his cozy vantage point, contentment was what he was feeling. “Hozho” was the word that came to his mind. Mitty was a fan of Tony Hiller man’s novels set in Navajo country. From them he had learned the concept means “balance and beauty and har mony.”

He wasn’t a religious pluralist by any stretch of the imagination, but still there were often images from other worldviews that resonated with his Christian sensibilities.

His thoughts then segued to John Fetter man. The newly elected senator from Pennsylvania had checked himself into Walter Reed Hospital to be treated for clinical depression, and Mitty remembered Fetter man’s wife saying, “I’m so proud of him for asking for help and getting the care he needs.”

Mitty was also in the middle of reading Jason Kander’s book Invisible Storm: A Soldier’s Memoir of Politics and PTSD. What motivated the pastor of Poplar Park Community Church to buy the book was a review he read saying, “Jason announced a bid for mayor of Kansas City instead and was headed for a landslide victory. But after 11 years battling PTSD from his service in Afghanistan, Jason was seized by depression and suicidal thoughts. He dropped out of the mayor’s race and out of public life. And finally, he sought help.”

“Donald Trump,” thought Mitty, “would probably call Fetter man and Kander ‘losers’.”

His eyes traveled back to the stor m raging outside his living room window.

Somehow winter stor ms and campfires and big waves on Lake Michigan brought him back to earth, so to speak. Back to the Earth where it felt like home

He had been listening to WBEZ on the way home from Adolf and Dolly’s house and the report was about the fentanyl epidemic rampaging across the country. The report said that the drug creates a state of euphoria in a person and added that the drug is often lethal.

“Hozho definitely is this side of euphoria,” Mitty said to himself. “Maybe the better state is contentment or finding your place in the universe. Or maybe it’s the peace that passes understanding.”

Pastor Walt remembered somebody saying that when adolescents do their development stage right, they figure out that life includes pain as well as pleasure. Loneliness on Valentine’s Day and contentment while watching a storm.

Sure enough, when he got up Friday mor ning, the sky was blue, the wind had grown quiet, and the sun was war ming the Earth.

Repor ter Igor Studenkov

Senior Editor Bob Uphues

Digital Manager

Stacy Coleman

Contributing Repor ters Tom Holmes, John Rice, Bob Skolnik, Jackie Glosniak, Robert J. Li a

Columnists Alan Brouilette, Jill Wagner, Tom Holmes, John Rice

Big Week Editor James Porter

Design/Production Manager Andrew Mead

Editorial Design Manager Javier Govea

Designer Susan McKelvey

S ales and Marketing Representatives

Lourdes Nicholls, Marc Stopeck, Kamil Brady

Business & Development Manager

Mary Ellen Nelligan

Circulation Manager Jill Wagner

Editor and Publisher Dan Haley

Special Projects Manager Susan Walker

How things have changed on the silver screen

Congratulations! You just made it through one of our dreariest months and have entered one of our most fun ones. This Saturday, we’ll hold the earliest St. Patrick’s Day parade in the Chicago area. After that, we’ ll have the fun of watching the 95th Academy Awards on March 12. Which reminds me of how much movies and movie-going have changed over the years.

In the old days, if you showed up late for a movie, the theater would be so packed, you could end up in the front row, getting a sore neck. Now, we purchase assigned seats on-line and there’s 10 people in the audience.

Smoking was the love language of classic movies. Nothing was more romantic than lighting someone’s cigarette Today, if a character takes a single puff, the film is slapped with an “R” rating.

Animals were treated cruelly in the old movies. Horses were purposely tripped. Now, if an insect is accidentally stepped on, there’s an outcry.

Older actors have long been used to portray teenagers but the “teens” in Grease

look like they’re eligible for AARP.

Moder n directors rely on CGI to create fantasy worlds. Classic directors created a fantasy world simply by shooting in lack and white.

Besides the notorious “black face,” white actors also portrayed other ethnic groups in what were called “yellow face” and “brown face” roles Today, you don’t actually have a disability, don’t play such a haracter, or you’ ll hear from the ADA.

Action movies have always been violence-driven. PG-13 stands for “Pretty Gory for a 13-year-old.”

The old-time movie stars didn’t have to be actors. They just played themselves in every movie. As one of them said, “I can’t take this role. It requires acting.”

I prefer watching foreign movies with subtitles. Unlike English-speaking movies, I can actually understand what they’re saying.

Why are foreign actors so good with the American accent, while American actors struggle with foreign accents?

I feel sor ry for female actors. They often play opposite much older leading men.

Their career path can take them from playing the ingénue, to playing mom, to portraying someone with Alzheimer’s.

I’ve rarely seen a convincing punch delivered in a movie. But I did see a convincing slap during the awards show.

Villains don’t get it, but if they rush the hero they will be kicked backwards. Also, villains must have a great sense of humor They’re constantly chuckling.

Classic film credits used the word “Introducing” to alert the audience that an actor was making their film debut. There are still film debuts, but I haven’t seen “Introducing” in years.

Americans watched an average of 1.4 movies on the big screen in 2022, but 61% of us did not set foot in a theater. Movie attendance peaked when 50 million Americans a week went to the movies.

Theaters used to show double features. I once watched The French Connection and Bullitt on a double bill.

Child actors used to be so stiff and wooden. Now they steal every scene.

Forest Park is very photogenic. We’ve hosted feature films, TV shows and commercials. But we don’t have a movie theater.

Couldn’t we at least have a film series for adults at our library?

Board of Directors

Chair Judy Gre n

Treasurer Nile Wendorf Deb Abrahamson, Gary Collins, Steve Edwards, Darnell Shields, Sheila Solomon, Eric Weinheimer

HOW TO REACH US

ADDRESS 141 S. Oak Park Ave., Oak Park, IL 60302

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Going Green

Unseasonably war m and sunny weather drew families, friends and revelers to pack Madison Street in 2012 for the annual Chamber of Commerce St. Patrick’s Day Parade. This was one of the largest crowds recorded for the parade, and the streets were lined with green.

Jill

Photo: J Geil/ FPR archives

Wagner

Growing Community Media

BY PHONE: (708) 613-3333 | BY FAX: (708) 467-9066 BY E-MAIL: EMAIL@GROWINGCOMMUNITYMEDIA.ORG

HELP WANTED

INFANT TEACHER

HELP WANTED

The Village of Oak Park is seeking qualified candidates for the position of Human Resources Generalist in the Human Resources Department. This position will perform a variety of professional and technical functions in support human resource management including orientation, hiring, employee testing, classification analysis, compensation analysis and benefits administration. Applicants are encouraged to visit the Village of Oak Park’s website http://www. oak-park.us/jobs. Position opened until filled.

PARKING ENFORCEMENT OFFICER

The Village of Oak Park is seeking qualified candidates for the position of Parking Enforcement Officer in the Police Department Field Services Division. This position will perform a variety of duties and responsibilities involved in the enforcement of Village parking regulations; and to provide general information and assistance to the public. Applicants are encouraged to visit the Village of Oak Park’s website http://www.oak-park.us/. Interested and qualified applicants must complete a Village of Oak Park application.

IT OPERATIONS SPECIALIST

The Village of Oak Park is seeking qualified candidates for the position of IT Operations Specialist. The ideal candidate is responsible for the effective operation of information technology services and support across the organization. The IT Operations Specialist serves as a technical expert for the implementation, maintenance and support of systems and networks. The IT Operations Specialist plans and carries out various complex assignments and develops new methods and approaches in a wide variety of IT specialties. Evaluates new and enhanced approaches to deliver IT services; test and optimize the functionality of systems, networks, and data; and define technical requirements. The IT Operations Specialist is responsible for providing various forms of computer-related technical assistance and improving the efficiency of the work of the staff through the use of technology. Interested and qualified applicants can visit our website at http://www.oakpark.us/ for more details.

Under the guidance of the childcare center Director, the Teacher is responsible for planning and implementing an effective developmental program to meet the physical, social, emotional, and intellectual needs of each child in line with the philosophy and mission statement of The Giving Tree. In addition, the Teacher is responsible for efficient and timely communication with parents.

One year of child development experience in a school or childcare setting, along with CPR, First Aid and Food handlers’ certifications. (Required but can be obtained upon hiring)

Medical insurance offered.

Salary commensurate with experience and education.

Contact information. Director Hazel Bell 708-209-1555 hazeltbell@gmail.com

ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT

The Village of Oak Park is seeking qualified candidates for the position of Administrative Assistant in the Public Health Department. This position provides a variety of responsible administrative and analytical functions; records and monitors department budget and fiscal requirements of grant-funded programs; oversight of Accounts Payable process; prepares reports and serves as a resource for computerized office applications. Applicants are encouraged to visit the Village of Oak Park’s website at http://www.oak-park.us/ jobs. Interested and qualified applicants must complete a Village of Oak Park application.

PART-TIME ELECTRICIAN’S HELPER

Call for more info. 708-738-3848

VILLAGE OF RIVERSIDE SEASONAL EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY

The Riverside Department of Public Works is seeking energetic, responsible, and motivated applicants who enjoy working outdoors. This is a part-time, seasonal position lasting from approximately May through September. Applicants will be expected to work up to 40 hrs. per week or as scheduled by staff. Primary tasks will include, but not limited to: cutting grass, maintaining athletic fields, general facilities maintenance, flushing hydrants, reading water meters, installing water meters, cleaning/televising sewers, assisting full-time employees, and other duties as assigned.

Applicants must be 18 years old, possess a valid Illinois driver’s license and high school diploma or equivalent. Applicants will be subject to a criminal background check, pre-employment physical and drug/ alcohol screening.

Applications can be downloaded from the Village website at www. riverside.il.us or picked up at the Riverside Village Hall located at 27 Riverside Rd, Riverside, IL 60546. Completed applications should be submitted to the Riverside Village Hall or the Riverside Public Works Department, 3860 Columbus Blvd, Riverside, IL 60546. Applications will be accepted until all positions are filled. Pay rate is $18/hr.

The Village of Riverside is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

FARMERS’ MARKET MANAGER

The Village of Oak Park is seeking qualified candidates for the position of Farmers’ Market Manager in the Health Department. This position manages the strategic planning and operation of the Oak Park Farmers’ Market; develops sustainable food strategies; and provides health and nutrition education, programming and promotion for the Village. During the Market season, this position would manage the internal staff and contractors needed to operate the Market, provides staff level support to the Farmers’ Market Commission, and manages vendor relations. The Market season runs from May through October, with the Market itself held outdoors each Saturday. During this time, the work week for this position is Tuesday through Saturday. Year-round, this position will provide nutrition education programming for the community in collaboration with the Health Education and Nursing divisions. Applicants are encouraged to visit the Village of Oak Park’s website at https://www.oakpark.us/jobs. Interested and qualified applicants must complete a Village of Oak Park application. Open until filled.

River Forest Public Schools

River Forest Public Schools District 90 currently seeking three paraprofessionals/ teacher aides to start immediately for the following roles:

• Special Education Teacher Aide - Full-time

• Special Education Teacher Aide - Part-time, 1:30pm - 3:15pm, Monday - Friday

•Early Childhood Special Education Teacher AidePart-time, 11:30am - 3:10pm, Monday - Friday

Qualifications: a) Current Illinois Paraprofessional

License, Professional Educator License or Substitute

License, b) Successful teacher assistant experience is preferred in regular education or special education.

Job Duties: The instructional assistant in Special Education will work with both general education and special education staff members to support learning for identified child(ren) with special needs. Responsibilities include instructing students in small groups and one-on-

River Forest Public Schools

one settings. This will also encompass helping students to develop positive interpersonal relationships with peers and adults: utilizing and modeling school behavior management programs: and assist in communications between students, teachers and parents as requested.

As an equal opportunity employer, it is the policy of the River Forest Public Schools, District 90, to not discriminate against any employee or any applicant for employment. District 90 values a talented and diverse workforce, and will attempt to recruit and hire minority employees.

Application Procedure: Interested candidates should complete the online application available at district90.org

River Forest Public Schools, D90 is seeking a temporary Summer School Nurse for Willard Elementary School.

• Start Date: June 20th – July 21st (No school July 4th)

Hours: 8:15am-3:15pm

Qualifications: (a) Registered Nurse License, (b) CPR certified; (c) experience working with children is preferred

Job Duties: The summer school nurse will provide direct professional nursing services, first aid, illness and emergency care to students and staff in response to the nursing assessment and in accordance with professional standards, school policy and procedures, and state and local mandates. He/she will administer or supervise the administration and proper storage of medication with

appropriate documentation. The nurse will review and evaluate records of students with medical conditions; maintain communication with parents and staff regarding children’s medical issues in accordance with procedural protocols as specified by the Illinois Department of Public Health. He/she will also perform other duties as assigned by the school principal.

Application Procedure: Interested candidates should complete the online application available at district90.org

  

MARKETPLACE

CARS WANTED

WOODWORK

Terry's Woodwork

PUBLIC NOTICES PUBLIC NOTICES

esta Citación y Petición para presentar una Respuesta (formulario FL-120) ante la corte y efectuar la entrega legal de una copia al demandante. Una carta o llamada telefónica o una audiencia de la corte no basta para protegerlo.

PUBLIC NOTICE

Notice is hereby given, pursuant to

“An Act in relation to the use of an

CLASSICS WANTED

CLASSICS WANTED

Restored or Unrestored

Restored or Unrestored

Cars & Vintage Motorcycles Domestic / Import Cars:

Cars & Vintage Motorcycles

Domestic / Import Cars:

Mercedes, Porsche, Corvette, Ferrari’s, Jaguars, Muscle Cars, Mustang & Mopars

$$ Top $$ all makes, Etc.

Collector James • 630-201-8122

Mercedes, Porsche, Corvette, Ferrari’s, Jaguars, Muscle Cars, Mustang & Mopars

$$ Top $$ all makes, Etc.

CLASSICS WANTED

Collector James 630-201-8122

Restored or Unrestored

Cars & Vintage Motorcycles

Domestic / Import Cars:

Mercedes, Porsche, Corvette, Ferrari’s, Jaguars, Muscle Cars, Mustang & Mopars

OFFICE/RETAIL

$$ Top $$ all makes, Etc.

Collector James 630-201-8122

On-site

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!

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: Y23010173 on February 9, 2023

Under the Assumed Business Name of MARY CANTU CREATIVE with the business located at: 704 N KENILWORTH AVE, OAK PARK, IL 60302. The true and real full name(s) and residence address of the owner(s)/partner(s) is: MARY CANTU 704 N KENILWORTH AVE, OAK PARK, IL 60302.

Published in Wednesday Journal February 15, 22, March 1, 2023

PUBLIC NOTICE

SUMMONS (Family Law)

CITACIÓN (Derecho familiar)

CASE NUMBER (NÚMERO DE CASO): HF22130927

NOTICE TO RESPONDENT (Name): AVISO AL DEMANDADO (Nombre): ANGELO C GALLARDO

You have been sued. Read the information below and on the next page.

Lo han demandado. Lea la información a continuación y en la página siguiente.

Petitioner’s name is: Nombre del demandante: MERCEDITA M. GALLARDO

You have 30 calendar days after this Summons and Petition are served on you to file a Response (form FL-120) at the court and have a copy served on the petitioner. A letter, phone call, or court appearance will not protect you.

If you do not file your Response on time, the court may make orders affecting your marriage or domestic partnership, your property, and custody of your children. You may be ordered to pay support and attorney fees and costs.

For legal advice, contact a lawyer immediately. Get help finding a lawyer at the California Courts Online SelfHelp Center (www.courts.ca.gov/ selfhelp), at the California Legal Services website (www.lawhelpca.org), or by contacting your local county bar association.

Tiene 30 días de calendario después de haber recibido la entrega legal de

Si no presenta su Respuesta a tiempo, la corte puede dar órdenes que afecten su matrimonio o pareja de hecho, sus bienes y la custodia de sus hijos. La corte también le puede ordenar que pague manutención, y honorarios y costos legales.

Para asesoramiento legal, póngase en contacto de inmediato con un abogado. Puede obtener información para encontrar un abogado en el Centro de Ayuda de las Cortes de California (www.sucorte.ca.gov), en el sitio web de los Servicios Legales de California (www.lawhelpca.org) o poniéndose en contacto con el colegio de abogados de su condado.

NOTICE—RESTRAINING ORDERS

ARE ON PAGE 2: These restraining orders are effective against both spouses or domestic partners until the petition is dismissed, a judgment is entered, or the court makes further orders. They are enforceable anywhere in California by any law enforcement officer who has received or seen a copy of them.

AVISO—LAS ÓRDENES DE RESTRICCIÓN SE ENCUENTRAN EN LA PÁGINA 2: Las órdenes de restricción están en vigencia en cuanto a ambos cónyuges o miembros de la pareja de hecho hasta que se despida la petición, se emita un fallo o la corte dé otras órdenes. Cualquier agencia del orden público que haya recibido o visto una copia de estas órdenes puede hacerlas acatar en cualquier lugar de California.

FEE WAIVER: If you cannot pay the filing fee, ask the clerk for a fee waiver form. The court may order you to pay back all or part of the fees and costs that the court waived for you or the other party.

EXENCIÓN DE CUOTAS: Si no puede pagar la cuota de presentación, pida al secretario un formulario de exención de cuotas. La corte puede ordenar que usted pague, ya sea en parte o por completo, las cuotas y costos de la corte previamente exentos a petición de usted o de la otra parte.

1. The name and address of the court are (El nombre y dirección de la corte son): SUPERIOR COURT OF CALIFORNIA, 24405 AMADOR STREET, HAYWARD, CA 94544 - FAMILY LAW DIVISION

2. The name, address, and telephone number of the petitioner’s attorney, or the petitioner without an attorney, are: (El nombre, dirección y número de teléfono del abogado del demandante, o del demandante si no tiene abogado, son): SATNESH S. PRASAD, 607 LONGWOOD AVE., HAYWARD, CA 94541

Date (Fecha): OCT 21, 2022

CHAD FINKE, Clerk, by (Secretario, por) SARAH GOUVEIA, Deputy (Asistente)

[SEAL]

Published in the Wednesday Journal March 1, 8, 15, 22, 2023

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: Y23010237 on February 27, 2023

Under the Assumed Business Name of DOUG MCGOLDRICK PHOTOGRAPHY with the business located at: 1034 WISCONSIN AVENUE, OAK PARK, IL 60304. The true and real full name(s) and residence address of the owner(s)/partner(s) is:

DOUG MCGOLDRICK 1034 WISCONSIN AVENUE, OAK PARK, IL 60304.

Published in Wednesday Journal March 1, 8, 15, 2023

PUBLIC NOTICE

VILLAGE OF RIVERSIDE, ILLINOIS

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING

Notice is hereby given to all interested persons that a public hearing before the Planning and Zoning Commission of the Village of Riverside will be held on Wednesday, March 22, 2023 at 7:00 p.m., or as soon thereafter as the business of the Planning and Zoning Commission may permit, in the Riverside Township Hall, Room 4, 27 Riverside Road, Riverside, Illinois, to consider an application for variations from Section 10-7-3(D) (Accessory Structures and Uses) and Section 10-7-4 (Permitted Encroachments) of the Village of Riverside Zoning Ordinance. The variations are sought to build a first-story deck that will encroach 5 feet into the street yard and to build a deck on the second story of the house.

Application No.: PZ 23-0003

Petitioner: Romney Cirillo Property Commonly Known As: 95 Groveland Avenue, Riverside, Illinois PIN: 15-35-204-008-0000

Variations:

The variations sought include, but may not be limited to, variations from the following sections of the Riverside Zoning Ordinance: a variation from Section 10-7-3(D) (Accessory Structures and Uses) and Section 10-7-4 (Permitted Encroachments), which state decks are prohibited in street yards; and a variation from Section 10-7-3(D) (Accessory Structures and Uses), which states decks shall not be higher than the elevation of the first floor of the principal building.

The above application is available for inspection at the office of the Village Clerk, 27 Riverside Road, Riverside, Illinois 60546. During the Public Hearing the Planning and Zoning Commission will hear testimony from and consider any evidence presented by persons interested to speak on these matters. Persons wishing to appear at this hearing may do so in person or by attorney or other representative and may speak for or against the proposed variations. Communications in writing in relation thereto may be filed at such hearing or with the Planning and Zoning Commission in advance by submission to Village Planner Anne Cyran via email at acyran@riverside.il.us or delivered to the attention of Village Planner Anne Cyran at the Village Offices at 27 Riverside Road, Riverside, Illinois prior to 4:00 p.m. on the day of the public hearing.

The Public Hearing may be continued from time to time without further notice, except as otherwise required

PUBLIC NOTICES PUBLIC NOTICES PUBLIC NOTICES

under the Illinois Open Meetings Act. The proposal and zoning relief sought may be added to, revised, altered or eliminated as a result of the Public Hearing and prior to final action by the Board of Trustees of the Village of Riverside.

Dated this 1st day of March, 2023.

Jill Mateo, Chairperson

Planning and Zoning Commission

Published in RB Landmark March 1, 2023 PUBLIC NOTICE

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING

VILLAGE OF BROOKFIELD

PUBLIC WATER SUPPLY LOAN PROJECTS

The Village of Brookfield will hold a public hearing on Monday, March 13, 2023 at 5:30 p.m. in the Village Board Room, 8820 Brookfield Avenue Brookfield, Illinois to obtain public comment regarding its intent to apply for Low-Interest Loans from the Illinois Environmental Protection Agency (IEPA) for various water system improvements.

The public hearing is being held in accordance with the State of Illinois Rules for Public Water Supply Loans, Part 662.330.

The purpose of the hearing is to obtain public comment on the Project Plan and the IEPA’s Preliminary Environmental Impacts Determination for the following proposed projects.

The Project Plan and the IEPA’s Environmental Impacts Determination are available for inspection at the office of the Village Manager located at the Brookfield Village Hall, 8820 Brookfield Avenue, Brookfield, Illinois during regular business hours.

The Project Plan Environmental and Impacts Determination include the following projects.

Water Main Replacement Projects (Phase I and Phase II) which include the installation of 15,300’ of ductile iron pipe water main to replace aging cast iron water mains.

Lead Service Line Replacement Projects (Phase I, II, and III) which include the installation of 1,915 copper water services to replace existing lead water services.

The Office of the Village Clerk will receive written comments for a period of 10 days following the public hearing.

Brigid Weber Village Clerk

Published in RB Landmark March 1, 2023

PUBLIC NOTICE VILLAGE OF RIVERSIDE, ILLINOIS

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING

Notice is hereby given to all interested persons that a public hearing before the Planning and Zoning Commission of the Village of Riverside will be held on Wednesday, March 22, 2023 at 7:00 p.m., or as soon thereafter as the business of the Planning and Zoning Commission may permit, in the Riverside Township Hall, Room 4, 27 Riverside Road, Riverside, Illinois, to review and consider various changes to the Village’s site plan review process as set forth in the Riverside Zoning Ordinance.

Application No.: PZ 23-0005

Petitioner: Village of Riverside

Proposed Text Amendments: Various changes to the Village of Riverside Zoning Ordinance regulations relative to Site Plan Review. The affected section(s) includes, but may not be limited to, Section 10-2-2-4 (Site Plan Review). Among the potential changes being considered include possibly changing the process as to how Site Plans are reviewed and approved, and what body has final decision making authority over Site Plans and under what circumstances. Other procedural and process changes to the site plan review provisions in the Village’s Zoning Code may be considered.

The application and proposed text amendments are available for inspection at the office of the Village Clerk, 27 Riverside Road, Riverside, Illinois 60546. The proposed text amendments may be added to or otherwise revised as a result of the public hearing. During the Public Hearing the Planning and Zoning Commission will hear testimony from and consider any evidence presented by persons interested to speak on this matter. Persons wishing to appear at the hearing may do so in person or by attorney or other representative and may speak for or against the proposed text amendments. Communications in writing in relation thereto may be filed at such hearings or with the Planning and Zoning Commission in advance by submission to Village Planner Anne Cyran via email at acyran@riverside. il.us or delivered to the attention of Village Planner Anne Cyran at the Village Offices at 27 Riverside Road, Riverside, Illinois, prior to 4:00 p.m. on the day of the public hearings. Please specify the public hearing to which your comments pertain.

The public hearing may be continued from time to time without further notice, except as otherwise required under the Illinois Open Meetings Act. The proposed text amendments

PUBLIC NOTICES PUBLIC NOTICES PUBLIC NOTICES

may be added to, revised, altered, or eliminated as a result of the public hearing and prior to final action by the Board of Trustees of the Village of Riverside.

Dated this 1st day of March, 2023

Jill Mateo, Chairperson Planning & Zoning Commission

Published in RB Landmark March 1, 2023

PUBLIC NOTICE VILLAGE OF RIVERSIDE, ILLINOIS NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING

Notice is hereby given to all interested persons that a public hearing before the Planning and Zoning Commission of the Village of Riverside will be held on Wednesday, March 22, 2023 at 7:00 p.m., or as soon thereafter as the business of the Planning and Zoning Commission may permit, in the Riverside Township Hall, Room 4, 27 Riverside Road, Riverside, Illinois, to consider an application for variations from Section 10-7-3 (Accessory Structures and Uses), Section 10-7-4 (Permitted Encroachments), Section 10-8-9 (Required Off Street Parking Spaces), Section 10-9-5 (Perimeter Parking Lot Landscaping), and Section 10-9-6 (Interior Parking Lot Landscaping) of the Village of Riverside Zoning Ordinance. The variations are sought to install a 4-foot-tall black wrought iron style fence that encroaches into the Akenside Road street yard for a length of approximately 189 feet along Akenside Road; to install two, 4-foot-tall black wrought iron style fences that encroach into the Akenside Road street yard for lengths of approximately 183 feet and 173 feet perpendicular to Akenside Road; to install a 20-foot-tall PVC-coated chain link backstop fence that encroaches approximately 21 feet into the Akenside Road street yard, approximately 167 feet from the street; to build an approximately 282 square foot refuse enclosure within the Akenside Road street yard, approximately 150 feet from the street; to install a 10-foot-wide sidewalk instead of the maximum 5 feet wide sidewalk perpendicular to Akenside Road that encroaches into the street yard for a length of approximately 188 feet; to build a parking lot with 87 spaces instead of the required 114 spaces; to allow the perimeter parking lot landscape buffer from Akenside Road to be less than 10 feet wide near two parking spaces; to install 12 interior landscape medians instead of the required 17 medians for the proposed 87 parking spaces; and to install 8 interior landscape medians that are smaller than required.

Application No.: PZ 23-0002

Petitioner: Riverside School District 96 Property Commonly Known As: 94 and 100 Akenside Rd and 61, 63, and 65 Woodside Rd, Riverside, Illinois PINs: 15-36-104-049-0000; 15-36104-044-0000; 15-36-104-048-0000; 15-36-104-024-0000; and 15-36104-023-0000

Variations:

The variations sought include, but may not be limited to, variations from the following sections of the Riverside Zoning Ordinance: variations from Section 10-7-3 (Accessory Structures and Uses), which states that fences shall be a maximum of 6 feet in height, that fences shall not be located in street yards, and that refuse enclosures shall not be located in street yards; a variation from Section 10-7-4 (Permitted Encroachments), which states sidewalks up to a maximum of 5 feet in width are permitted in street yards; a variation from Section 10-8-9 (Required Off Street Parking Spaces), which requires the site to have 114 off-street parking spaces; a variation from Section 10-9-5 (Perimeter Parking Lot Landscaping), which requires a 10-foot-wide landscape buffer between the parking lot and the property line; and variations from Section 10-9-6 (Interior Parking Lot Landscaping), which requires 17 landscape medians for the proposed 87 parking spaces and requires landscape medians to be a minimum of 144 square feet in area.

The above application is available for inspection at the office of the Village Clerk, 27 Riverside Road, Riverside, Illinois 60546. During the Public Hearing the Planning and Zoning Commission will hear testimony from and consider any evidence presented by persons interested to speak on these matters. Persons wishing to appear at this hearing may do so in person or by attorney or other representative and may speak for or against the proposed variations. Communications in writing in relation thereto may be filed at such hearing or with the Planning and Zoning Commission in advance by submission to Village Planner Anne Cyran via email at acyran@riverside.il.us or delivered to the attention of Village Planner Anne Cyran at the Village Offices at 27 Riverside Road, Riverside, Illinois prior to 4:00 p.m. on the day of the public hearing.

The Public Hearing may be continued from time to time without further notice, except as otherwise required under the Illinois Open Meetings Act. The proposal and zoning relief sought may be added to, revised, altered or eliminated as a result of the Public Hearing and prior to final action by the Board of Trustees of the

REAL ESTATE FOR SALE

Village of Riverside.

Dated this 1st day of March, 2023.

Jill Mateo, Chairperson Planning and Zoning Commission

Published in RB Landmark March 1, 2023

PUBLIC NOTICES

PUBLIC NOTICE OF COURT

DATE FOR REQUEST FOR NAME CHANGE

STATE OF ILLINOIS, CIRCUIT COURT COOK COUNTY.

Request of Abigail LeBlancAlexander LeBlanc Case Number 20224005878

There will be a court date on my Request to change my name from: Abigail LeBlancAlexander LeBlanc to the new name of: Abigail LeBlanc

The court date will be held: On March 28, 2023 at 11:00 a.m. at 1311 Maybrook Dr, Maywood, IL 60153 in Courtroom #112

Published in Wednesday Journal March 1, 8, 15, 2023

EQUAL HOUSING OPPORTUNITY

All real estate advertising in this newspaper is subject to the Fair Housing Act, which makes it illegal to advertise any preference, limitation or discrimination based on age, race, color, religion, sex, handicap, familial status or national origin, or intention to make any such preferences, limitations or discrimination.

e Illinois Human Rights Act prohibits discrimination in the sale, rental or advertising of real estate based on factors in addition to those protected under federal law. is newspaper will not knowingly accept any advertising for real estate which is in violation of the law. All persons are hereby informed that all dwellings advertised are available on an equal opportunity basis. Restrictions or prohibitions of pets do not apply to service animals.

To complain of discrimination, call HUD toll free at: 1-800-669-9777. GROWING COMMUNITY MEDIA

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

THE BANK OF NEW YORK MELLON FKA THE BANK OF NEW YORK, AS TRUSTEE (CWALT 2005-56); Plaintiff, vs. CELESTE MARIOTTI; MORTGAGE ELECTRONIC REGISTRATION SYSTEMS, INC.; THE BANK OF NEW YORK, AS TRUSTEE FOR THE CERTIFICATEHOLDERS OF CWALT, INC., ALTERNATIVE LOAN TRUST 2005-56, MORTGAGE PASSTHROUGH CERTIFICATES, SERIES 2005-56; UNKNOWN OWNERS AND NON RECORD CLAIMANTS; Defendants, 18 CH 10982

NOTICE OF SALE

PUBLIC NOTICE IS HEREBY GIV-

EN that pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale entered in the above entitled cause Intercounty Judicial Sales Corporation will on Monday, March 20, 2023 at the hour of 11 a.m. in their office at 120 West Madison Street, Suite 718A, Chicago, Illinois, sell at public auction to the highest bidder for cash, as set forth below, the following described mortgaged real estate:

Commonly known as 634 South Scoville Avenue, Oak Park, IL 60304. P.I.N. 16-18-213-013-0000.

The mortgaged real estate is improved with a single family residence. If the subject mortgaged real estate is a unit of a common interest community, the purchaser of the unit other than a mortgagee shall pay the assessments required by subsection (g-1) of Section 18.5 of the Condominium Property Act. Sale terms: 10% down by certified funds, balance, by certified funds, within 24 hours. No refunds. The property will NOT be open for inspection

For information call Mr. Andrew Houha at Plaintiff’s Attorney, Johnson, Blumberg & Associates, LLC, 30 North LaSalle, Chicago, Illinois 60602. (312) 541-9710. IL 21 8605

ADC

INTERCOUNTY JUDICIAL SALES CORPORATION intercountyjudicialsales.com

I3213310

CHAMPAGNE AND SAVINGS!

Get

LET’S MEET FOR BRUNCH.

Be our guest for brunch on Sunday, March 12, 10 a.m. –12 p.m. Our beautiful high-rise community is the perfect setting to sip a mimosa or sparkling champagne and enjoy our chef’s finest brunch creations. While you’re visiting, ask about our move-in special—two months’ FREE rent when you move in March!

Schedule a tour and experience for yourself our maintenance-free lifestyle that offers premium services and unique spaces like our outdoor terraces, restaurants and fitness patios with stunning views! Call (708) 622-9251 to schedule your tour today!

A St. Patrick's Day

Message from the Chamber

This Saturday is St. Patty’s in Forest Park

We’re not expecting half a million people like they are in Dublin, but the Forest Park Chamber’s St. Patrick’s Day parade is certainly our most popular event and our attendance numbers are just as impressive for a town our size. Attendance reached an all-time high last year at an estimated crowd of 10,000 people.

We host the parade early in March – typically two weekends before St. Patrick’s Day weekend. The Chamber chose that path initially to ensure that we didn’t compete with local or city parades for entrants or attendance, and to also allow for a second day of celebration. Folks always come out on St. Patrick’s Day. By hosting it before the ‘official’ St. Pat’s weekend, we’re bringing people to Forest Park twice.

People often remark that the weather would be better if we moved the date back,

but that’s not how Chicago-area weather rolls. For example, last year’s parade day temperature was 70 degrees. Granted, that’s really great weather for March, but the temperature on the following Saturday was 24 degrees. Over the last 26 years, it’s gone the other way of course, but Forest Park St. Pat’s Parade Day parade-goers are in it to win it so we always have a great turnout.

As with any event we host, sponsors are key to making the parade happen. Their support allows us to create an entertaining line-up that includes entries like Medinah Shriner’s parade units who receive an honorarium for participating. Event sponsorship also supports the overall work of the Chamber.

Thank you to this year’s main sponsors: Title Sponsors: O’Sullivan’s Public House; Fiore Pizzeria & Bakery; Ironworkers Local 1.

Advertising Sponsors: Burke Beverage; The Gillian Baker Team; Village of Forest Park; Mohr Oil Company; Christopher B.

Burke Engineering, Ltd; Fatduck Tavern & Grill; Speaker of the Illinois House Emanuel Chris Welch; Republic Services, Riveredge Hospital, Currie Motors and Caffe DeLuca.

Shamrock Sponsors: Forest Park Bakery; Little Teeth Big Smiles/Children’s Dentistry; Let’s Play Work; Shanahan’s; Scratch Kitchen; Park District of Forest Park; Jessica Voogd for Commissioner; Our Planet Automotive; Progress Center; and Toothbuds Pediatric Dentistry.

I also want to thank every single member of the Forest Park Chamber of Commerce for their support. Together with the village and other key organizations, we all work together to keep Forest Park strong.

Happy parade day and happy St. Patrick’s Day to one and all.

Laurie Kokenes Executive Director Forest Park Chamber of Commerce

LAURIE KOKENES

Put

Sawa’s Old

Monday, March 6

Family, Food, and Murder: What Makes a Cozy Mystery Series

Mia P. Manansala, author of the Tita Rosie’s Kitchen Mysteries, will discuss this mystery subgenre and why she tackles serious topics in a light, humorous way.

Monday, March 13

Gamelan Music from Java

Learn about instruments and music from Java, presented by a group of musicians from the Friends of the Gamelan.

Monday March 20

Salvador Dali: The Image Disappears

Dr. Onur Öztürk of Columbia College Chicago will briefly summarize the life and art of Spanish Surrealist painter and printmaker Salvador Dali, and show highlights of the Art Institute’s new exhibition.

Monday, March 27—Science

How Oak Park and River Forest Were Shaped by the Ice Age

Glacial ice has created practically every geologic feature in our corner of the Midwest, even though the most recent glacier retreated about 20,000 years ago. Dr. John P. Tandarich will discuss this with a focus on the specific features that we especially in our area.

Nobody does St. Patrick’s parades like Forest Park

And they’re doing it this Saturday on Madison Street

By TOM HOLMES Contributing Reporter

This Saturday at 1 p.m., 75 groups, lined up on Van Buren Street, will march east on Madison Street to Elgin Avenue, and up to 7,000 residents and visitors will line the sidewalks to enjoy the procession. It’s 13 days early, but the St. Patrick’s Parade every year attracts the largest crowd of any event in the village.

Crowd-pleasers in the parade will be the Proviso East Marching Band, the Doonaree Pipe Band, the Foy Irish School of Dancing, Shriners acting like big kids as they rev their little motorcycles in the Medinah Motor Corp. along with fellow Shriners driving their mini-cars.

The fire and police departments in the area never let the Chamber Executive Director Laurie Kokenes know in advance how many units they’ll be sending, but she said it’s usually around five, and the firefighters and police officers riding in the vehicles have as much fun wailing their sirens as the kids do listening to them. Politicians hoping to curry favor and win your votes will be marching, and gladhanding, including Mayor Rory Hoskins and his challenger, John Doss; plus commissioner incumbents Jessica Voogd, Maria Maxham and Ryan Nero who are run-

ning for re-election and challengers Ryan Russ, Michelle Melin-Rogovin, and Joe Landgrebe; Speaker of the House Emanuel Chris Welch; and Cook County Clerk Karen Yarbrough.

Schools, nonprofits, and many businesses have a presence walking in the parade and waving at their neighbors, making it a truly hometown event.

The Title Sponsors — businesses that support the event with donations — are O’Sullivan’s, Ironworkers Local 1, and Fiore. Joining the Title Sponsors are 26 other businesses and organizations that help fund the event.

Among the reasons the Chamber of Commerce sponsors the parade is that it functions as a fundraiser for the organization. Following is the list of entry fees for the event:

Chamber Business Members $65

Non-Member Business $120

Chamber Member Not-For-Profit $50

Non-Member Not-For-Profit $65

Political $65

Individual Non-business, Residential, Families, etc. $50

The Chamber needs those funds to sustain its mission which is, in the words of Chamber President Neil Rembos, “to drive local business and connect our community. Chamber events are perfect opportunities for us to showcase Forest Park’s smalltown charm and strong sense of community. With the exposure and sizeable foot traffic our events bring to our business districts, we are confident that attendees will see what our town has to offer and return in the future.”

Rembos is the owner of Crystal Carwash, located on Harlem, and therefore does not benefit directly from the exposure that businesses on Madison Street enjoy during the parade.

Nonetheless, he still invests time and energy in the event.

“As a town,” he said, “we have created a brand of vibrant culture, local charm, and diversity. The parade benefits all businesses and the entire community as whole by further supporting our brand while increasing our exposure. We continue to host Chamber events to share our story and focus on the positive aspects of Forest Park that we all know and love.”

Kokenes added that in addition to putting Forest Park on the radar screens of consumers, a lot of money is spent in town

that day, especially in the bars. In fact, the Chamber has gotten into the merchandising business by selling its own brand of clothing.

Up till Feb. 20, they were selling online hoodies, crew sweatshirts, T-shirts, baseball tees, beanies, pom hats, ball caps, vests, and jackets.

Last year Forest Park became a parking lot by the time the parade started at 1 p.m. Last year every parking space on the side streets north of Madison to Randolph and south to Jackson was filled.

Tom Skilling has predicted that the weather on Saturday will be partly sunny with a high of 50 degrees.

The website History.com makes it clear

See PARADE on page B11

SHANEL ROMAIN/Staff Photographer

Forest Park celebrated St. Patrick’s Day during the village’s 25th annual parade along Madison Street in 2022.

Commissioner Ryan Nero Commissioner Joe ByrnesCommissioner Jessica Voogd Commissioner Maria Maxham

Mayor Rory Hoskins

Commissioner Ryan Nero Commissioner Joe ByrnesCommissioner Jessica Voogd Commissioner Maria Maxham

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Families prepare for the parade to approach on Saturday, March 5, 2022, during the Forest Park St. Patrick’s Day Parade on Madison Street in downtown Forest Park.

Parade

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that Patrick did not found the Guinness Brewery, which is perhaps more associated with the holiday than the Fourth Century saint.

“St. Patrick, patron saint of Ireland, is one of Christianity’s most widely known figures. But for all of his prevalence in culture — namely the holiday held on the day of his death that bears his name — his life

remains somewhat of a mystery. Although a missionary to the Emerald Isle, Patrick himself was not Irish.

“Many of the stories traditionally associated with St. Patrick, including the famous account of his banishing all the snakes from Ireland, are false, the products of hundreds of years of exaggerated storytelling.”

There will no doubt be more exaggerated storytelling during and after this Saturday’s festivities.

Alex Rogals/Staff Photographer

Members of the Proviso East High School marching band perform for parade goers during the 2020 Forest Park St. Patrick’s Day Parade on Madison Street.

Alex Rogals/Staff Photographer

Alex Rogals/Staff Photographer

Children wave to the fire engines on Saturday, March 5, 2022, during the Forest Park St. Patrick’s Day Parade on Madison Street.

7600 W Roosevelt Road, Forest Park, Illinois