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ForestParkReview.com Vol. 106, No. 49

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REVIEW DECEMBER 6, 2023

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Goedert Center throws their name in the hat for Grant-White

D91’s board of education flush out their hopes for the space during special meeting

By AMARIS E. RODRIGUEZ Staff Reporter

A River Forest preschool took the opportunity to address the Forest Park School District 91 Board of Education during a special board meeting Wednesday evening to discuss the possibility of a partnership that would allow the preschool to keep its doors open.

Earlier this month, Dominican University announced that the Rose K Goedert Center for Early Childhood Education would be closing its door June 14, following a decision by Fenwick High School, who purchased the property from the university, to act upon an initial exit clause and close the center after two years from the purchase.

See GOEDERT CENTER on page 9

Jolly Madison Holiday shopping gets off to a ho-ho start.

More photos on page 12.

BEN STUMPE

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Forest Park Review, December 6, 2023

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Forest Park Review, December 6, 2023

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West’s Key Club offers service to community, students with Westchester Food Pantry donations

with each spot corresponding Side dishes were collected tocards, one of the non-perishable items that were being collected and was for Thanksgiving baskets open to all students. If a student

By AMARIS E. RODRIGUEZ Staff Reporter

The Westchester Food Pantry gave thanks this past Thanksgiving holiday as Proviso West students rallied together to collect food donations, helping to provide side dishes to accompany the festive meals on the tables of over 300 families.

The food drive, organized by the Proviso West Key Club, which aims to help develop initiative and leadership ability in students, is in its second year. It encourages students to give back to their community while helping them receive service hours that are needed to graduate.

Shannon Scott, librarian at Proviso West and sponsor of the club, said the drive is conducted through cards that resemble Bingo

turned in a fully stamped card, they earned five service hours and were also entered in a raffle to win a gift card.

The food drive ran through Nov. 15 and donations were then organized and packed by members of the Key Club and delivered to the food pantry by members of the school’s maintenance team.

“We had so much food that, where I was holding on to it before the kids packed it up, I could not get to my desk because it was just piles and piles of boxes,” Scott said.

This year, Scott said she had 40 people participate in the drive and while she would love to see more participation, she also understands that those who do are also the ones who have the financial ability to purchase the food.

“I would have liked more students to participate but you know what, essentially the kids who participated are the ones who are able to financially, as opposed to when we make scarfs … and the kids are putting in time versus putting in buying the food that matches the bingo card,” Scott said. “I would love to have more kids participate in donating but the reality is that we have that food pantry that serves this popula-

tion for a reason. So, some of these kids may not be able to participate in it because they go to the pantry.”

Still, they tried to make a difference in some lives with the donations for the pantry, which serves local families and many Proviso Township High School District 209.

“It’s local. I try to spread our giving and our work around to both local and globally, it really depends on what we are doing,” Scott said, adding that oftentimes it is hard to find local organizations to partner with as sometimes the student’s schedules do not align with what the organizations need. “I do what I can with the kids.”

The Westchester Food Pantry, on South Mannheim Road, was not able to be reached for comment. But a post on their Facebook page showed that the Key Club donated side dishes for over 330 families in need as part of their Thanksgiving baskets this holiday season.

L E T T E R

O

What went wrong with those new houses

n Nov. 20, the Forest Park Planning & Zoning Commission (PZC) met to decide the fate of two new houses currently under construction. One was located at 7713 Wilcox, the other at 838 Circle. I write this “tongue in cheek” because the houses are nearly complete and were allowed to be built without proper village approval or community input.

At this meeting, the PZC members were asked to pretend that the horse had not left the barn when in reality it was already halfway to the West Coast.

Both of these homes were illegally given the green light because Building Director Steve Glinke did not know and/or understand the basic zoning regulations for building new houses in a residential neighborhood. Village code 9-3A-3 states “Every lot shall have a width not less than 50 feet.” Both 7713 Wilcox & 838 Circle are 25-foot-wide lots.

Though this law may sound outrageous

to some, it is a very practical law created about 12-15 years ago to place a check on construction on smaller properties common in the village. During the 2000s, our town was like the Wild West.

Houses were built out of compliance and inappropriate for the surrounding neighborhood — like trying to fit 5 pounds of potatoes into a 3-pound bag.

The owners of Wilcox and Circle were never going to be denied the right to build; they just needed to request an opportunity to do so as outlined by the zoning code before building. That process is facilitated by the staff of the Building Department. Unfortunately this did not occur.

Having a 25-foot-lot when the law requires 50 is called a “hardship.” Just one of many hardships that can be considered for redress.

A hardship can be overcome by asking the PZC to grant a “variance,” or variation from the law, to build. Requesting a variance takes

place at a formal, public meeting where the property owner presents their case to set aside the 50-foot rule and let them build.

Once a meeting date is set, the Building Department notifies, by mail, all property owners within a 250-foot radius of the property that a meeting is going to take place at X time on X date at village hall. If anyone wants to participate, here is an opportunity. In addition, a sign is placed at the property informing the general public that a zoning meeting will take place. Unfortunately this did not occur until after the fact.

Still awake?

If the PZC approves the project, then the builder can proceed but must follow construction guidelines outlined in the zoning code. The new house must fit within the lot allowing for “yard setbacks,” an empty margin between the property lines at the

STEVE BACKMAN One View

front, rear and sides of any structure. Where to place the house on the lot, front to back, is usually not an issue; however, the side yard setbacks require a formula. Each setback shall equal 10 percent of the lot width or 3 feet, whichever is greater. In other words, a 50-foot-wide lot requires the house be no closer than 5 feet from the property line on each side. Simple, except for 25-foot lots, where the code says 3 feet is the minimum on each side. A 2½-foot setback would not allow for easy passage of a wheelchair. The Americans with Disabilities Act requires passages to be 3 feet.

Because the Building Director did not know the code, 7713 Wilcox and 838 Circle were built with sideyard setbacks less than 3 feet. They are monuments to a mistake.

This meeting can be seen at: www.youtube.com/watch?v=X4UP-io55NI Steve Backman is a Forest Park resident and member of the Planning & Zoning Commission.

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Forest Park Review, December 6, 2023

Forest Park to get MWRD help with green alley project costs

MWRD agreed to reimburse the village for higher portion of construction expenses than originally expected

By IGOR STUDENKOV Staff Reporter

The Metropolitan Water Reclamation District of Greater Chicago will reimburse the village for 70.1% of the construction costs of repaving two blocks worth of alleys between Harrison Street, Marengo Avenue, Harvard Street and Circle Avenue.

The project will make the alleys permeable, so some of the water would seep underground instead of going straight into the sewers. The agreement specifies that the alley design must capture at least 47,000 gallons of water during “any given rain event.”

The agreement is more than what Forest Park originally hoped for. When the village applied for MWRD grant in August 2022, it expected the district to only reimburse them for up to 60% of the construction costs. The project cost estimates provided to the village council at the time assumed

an even smaller figure – roughly 50%.

The village will need to cover the costs up front, and it won’t be reimbursed for any engineering costs. Interim village administrator Rachell Entler told the Review that the village currently estimates that the construction would cost around $700,000. This is line with last year’s $704,775 construction cost estimate.

The agreement doesn’t mention the project construction, but it does cap the reimbursement at $494,000.

This cap became an issue with another green infrastructure project MWRD agreed to fund.

Last year, MWRD agreed to cover 70% of the costs of making the village hall parking lot permeable. But the project was derailed because the construction bids came back higher than expected and the district wasn’t willing to increase its share of the costs. The council ended up voting 2-3 against accepting the bid, with Mayor Rory Hoskins casting the deciding no vote.

The 2022 estimates that repaving the alleys with concrete would cost $646,800.

Commissioner of streets and public improvements Michelle Melin-Rogovin said she was pleased that MWRD will be covering the majority of the costs, given that half the costs reimbursement was a standard expectation for projects like this. She also said that the village will try to come up with grants and other funding sources

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Map of the alleys that will get permeable pavers thanks to MWRD reimbursements. to help cover the local match.

Flooding has been a recurring issue for Forest Park, as it has for many communities near the Des Plaines River. The July floods didn’t hit the village as badly as Cicero, Oak Park and Berwyn, but it still received 6 inches of rainfall within 12 hours.

Several basements, including Hoskins’, were flooded, and so was the section of Eisenhower Expressway that passed through Forest Park.

The village has been trying to address

the issue by separating combined service lines into separate sewer and water lines – something that mostly happened on blockby-block basis as funding became available. Adding permeable pavers is another part of the strategy. While it ultimately decided not to put in pavers at the villageowned parking lot, Forest Park is applying for the Illinois Environmental Protection Agency funding to help cover the cost of putting them at the village-owned Constitution Court parking lot.

Call Jill at (708) 613-3340 or visit ForestParkReview.com/subscribe

Forest Park Review, December 6, 2023

O B I T U A R Y

Betty Zimmerman, 95 Avid Forest Park volunteer

PHOTO CREDIT

Home of Chicken & Waffles

Making breakfast interesting

Y

By DAVID HAMMOND Oak Park Eats Blogger

ears ago, working on a feature for the Chicago Sun-Times about then newly opened Chicago’s Home of Chicken & Waffles, we concocted our own savory waffle-protein combinations. We created a Mexican corn meal waffle with chicken mole, a Japanese rice flour waffle with teriyaki chicken, stuff like that. It was fun, and I was intrigued by the idea of taking a traditional breakfast food like the waffle, changing up the flour, and combining it with savory meat.

Breakfast can be one of the most routine, uninspired meals of the day. So when Chicago Waffles opened at 726 Lake St., its fourth location in Chicagoland, I was intrigued by their range of savory waffles.

I had my eye on the Cheddar & Short Rib Waffle, which owner Gary Kreymer explained has “cheddar cheese inside the waffle.” I liked the idea of playing with the batter recipe for waffles so that each one works with a different protein. Cheese and beef are buddies, and the added cheddar gave more flavor dimension to the waffle. The short rib meat was super-tender and delicious; Kreymer told us it takes a low, slow cook of three hours.

The most popular food on the menu, the one Kreymer said most people order, is the eggs, and the array of Eggs Benedict (or “Beny”) options is intriguing. We opted for the Duck Benedict on Liege Waffles. The slight sweet-

ness of this waffle preparation complements the duck (which traditionally pairs well with sweetness, as in Duck L’Orange or Duck with Cherry Sauce). “The Liege Waffle is my favorite and my wife’s favorite,” says Kreymer.

“People don’t always know it, but it’s a type of Belgian waffle that originated in France.

You proof the dough for 24 hours and put Belgian sugar inside, for a caramelized waffle.”

And for beverages, well, my afternoon was open, so we opted to share sips of a Bloody Mary, the traditional pairing with brunch and long airplane rides. This was a very good version of the cocktail, with house-made, pleasantly spicy tomato juice (no Mr. & Mrs. T’s here!). Most cocktails at Chicago Waffles are made-to-order, not batched ahead of time; holding ready-to-go cocktails seems to render flavors murky and indistinct. Many of the cocktails at Chicago Waffles contain fresh fruit, which brightens and enlivens the drink.

DOOPers will remember The Original Pancake House located just east of the Lake Theatre. Like that long-gone breakfast spot, Chicago Waffles offers a multitude of menu items, perking up the options for what can be the least interesting meal of the day.

People probably don’t associate waffles with any meal other than breakfast, but Chicago Waffles has a lot for lunch as well. During the holiday season, if you have a house full of guests, this is the place for a different kind of breakfast/lunch, with enough menu options to please the many.

Betty Zimmerman (née Neubauer), 95, died on Nov. 19, 2023 at Asbury Gardens Skilled Care in North Aurora.

One of five sisters born to John and Lillian Neubauer in Chicago, she was a graduate of St. Paschal grade school and Steinmetz High School. She moved to Forest Park in the 1950s and met her husband, Fred, the “Silver Fox,” who served over 30 years with the Forest Park Police Department, retiring as lieutenant and deputy chief. Together, they raised and generously educated two children, Terry and Fred (Cathy).

Her working life grew through later education and training and gave her a successful career as a tax preparer for H&R Block and Paul Herbert CPA, and she also became an enrolled agent with the IRS. Despite her commitment to work, she and Fred’s volunteering for various civic groups went undiminished. They were also a popular couple in Madison Street social life.

With Betty’s departure from Forest Park, this will be the first time since 1887 that there is no Zimmerman living in town. The Zimmerman family produced five Forest Park police officers, one Oak Park police officer, and contributed hundreds of hours of volunteering with the Mariner Girl Scouts, St. Bernardine School, and the Forest Park Police Pension Board.

Betty was also the grandmother of two, Lydia and Freddy, and the aunt of many.

Final arrangements, handled by Zimmerman-Harnett Funeral Home, were private. The family will gather to celebrate her life at a later date.

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Forest Park Review, December 6, 2023

Forest Park tax levy to increase slightly to account for TIF expiration Village council to hold hearing, vote on the levy Dec. 18

By IGOR STUDENKOV Staff Reporter

Forest Park is proposing to increase the tax levy for the 2023 tax year – but this doesn’t necessarily mean that the property taxes will actually increase.

The village is proposing to increase the combined village/library levy to 6.5%.

However, the number is misleading.

The old Brown/Harlem Tax Increment Financing District is expiring next year, which will create a one-time spike in tax revenue as the amount of money the taxing bodies get, which was frozen since 2000, returns to 2023 levels. Without increasing the levy, the village and the library wouldn’t be able to capture that extra revenue. But since the amount the property owners actually pay wasn’t affected by the TIF, the increase in revenue won’t be nearly as drastic, if it happens at all.

As a non-Home Rule municipality, Forest Park is subject to the Property Tax Limi-

tation Law, which caps the overall tax levy increase at 5% or the change in the Consumer Price Index, whichever is smaller.

The village also levies property taxes on behalf of the Forest Park Library, and the library’s levy is also subject to PTELL. The village is asking for a total levy of more than $9.46 million, with around $2.1 million going to the library. In a Nov. 27 memo to the village council, Forest Park finance director Letitia Olmsted wrote that she expects the tax increase to generate $436,146 for the village, and additional $141,481 for the library. She also wrote that the levy shifts additional $905,818 to the police and fire pension funds, which will reduce the amount that goes to the village’s corporate fund, which covers most of the day-to-day expenses, and various special revenue funds by $468,673 compared to 2022 tax year. Olmsted noted that this increase is still below what the village actuary recommends, but supplemental payments the village makes every two weeks as part of

its regular billing cycle, as well as funds from the Personal Property Replacement Tax, which the State of Illinois collections on municipalities’ behalf, could be used to bring the funding closer to 90%.

Under state law, municipalities are required to fund at least 90% of their pension obligations by 2040.

Olmsted also said that the increase may be lower than 6.5%. The Office of Cook County Clerk, which has the final say over the actual levy, establishes a “limiting rate” for all of the taxing bodies using a formula that takes into account the CPI for the prior year and the Equalized Assessed Value, which is in turn based on the actual value of the property and the State Equalization Factor, which is meant to bring some parity to the way properties are assessed throughout the state. The limiting rate is expected to be calculated by later summer 2024, and Olmsted wrote that she expects it to be reduced compared to the 2022 tax year.

If the taxing body levies more than the limiting rate, the extra money is simply deducted – but if it levies less than the limiting rate, then it only gets what it levied.

Olmsted told the Review that given all those complex factors, as well as the fact that Proviso Township properties are up for reassessment next year, she couldn’t speak to how the tax increase would affect Forest Parkers’ property taxes.

The village and the library traditionally accounted for a smaller slice of the tax bill than the school districts. Olmsted’s memo said that the village portion of the levy accounts for about 14% of the tax bill, while the library portion accounts for 5%.

The village council will hold the public hearing on the levy on Dec. 18 at 6:45 p.m. before voting on whether to approve it during the 7 p.m. meeting. In the meantime, the levy documents are available at the Forest Park Village Hall for inspection.

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Forest Park Review, December 6, 2023

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Police arrest man who robbed mail carrier

Police also interviewing suspects who could be connected to last week’s mail carrier robbery at new Field-Stevenson School

By IGOR STUDENKOV Staff Reporter

Forest Park police arrested a 20-year-old man who robbed a mail carrier on the 1000 block of Beloit Avenue on the afternoon of Nov. 28.

The robbery came three days after another mail carrier was robbed only one block south, near Field-Stevenson school. The incident led the Forest Park Police Depart-

ment to team up with the U.S. Postal Inspection Service investigators to set up surveillance in the area. Three suspects have been taken into custody for interviews.

In recent months, there has been an uptick in armed robberies in the Chicago area, with robbers demanding that the mail carriers turn over their master keys. This not only allows for easy access to homes, but makes it easier to get into mailboxes and steal checks and other sensitive mail.

According to the police report shared with the Review, the carrier was in the process of delivering mail when at around 1:08 p.m., the robber confronted him. He told the carrier to “give them keys” as he opened his jacket, flashing what looked like a black handgun tucked in his waistband. The carrier gave the robber a set of “arrow” keys to mailboxes. The robber fled south on Beloit Avenue before turning west on Filmore Street.

According to the police department, the

officers found the robber later that afternoon. The 20-yearold tried to get away, and he dropped a Smith & Wesson M&P 380 Shield gun, which the police recovered.

The previous incident happened on Nov. 25. According to the police report, the mail carrier was preparing to deliver his mail when a man FILE came up from behind Th ere has been an uptick in postal-carrier robberies. and said he didn’t want to hurt him.

When the carrier turned around, he saw see a weapon. The man demanded that the a man wearing a white face mask and had victim hand over his USPS master key, and his jacket hood pulled over his head. The he complied. The man then fled the scene, man put his hand over his right pocket, im- running south on Beloit Avenue and turnplying he had a gun, but the victim didn’t ing west on Harvard Street.

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Forest Park Review, December 6, 2023

Living Fresh Market reaches out to local vendors, mulls expansion

Forest Park grocery store looking to expand to Chicago, Maywood, out of state

By IGOR STUDENKOV Staff Reporter

Two years after Living Word Church took over Living Fresh Market grocery store, it is eyeing an ambitious expansion that could see three to four locations open in the Chicagoland area and Tuskegee, Alabama.

The church, which owns the Forest Park Plaza, where the store is located, ended up taking over the store after the previous owners left and it couldn’t secure another tenant.

Melody Winston, who managed the plaza and became a store manager once the church took over, said that they tried to expand the inventory and reached out to Forest Park and Chicago area vendors. And they are actively trying to put more stores in communities that don’t have many grocery options.

Winston said that they are fairly far along with Tuskegee store, as well as a store in Maywood and Bronzeville, the historic commercial and cultural heart of Chicago’s Black community. The church is also actively negotiating to put in a store in North Lawndale. Winston said that as of Dec. 4, they were still discussing details, and she wasn’t prepared to share details about the location or opening by publication.

Living Fresh Market opened at the former Ultra Foods location in 2018. It was operated by brothers Daniel and Ken Casaccio, who also owned two West Side of Chicago grocery stores – the Leamington Foods in Austin and Freshway Market in North Lawndale.

When the church’s takeover of Living Fresh was announced in October 2021, Ken Casaccio declined to discuss what happened. In a recent interview, Winston said that when they became aware that the Casaccios were leaving, she “talked to Mariano’s, talked to Pete’s, a lot of big boys” about taking over the space.

“And in the middle of me talking to a prospect, my father [Living Word Church founder Rev. Bill Winston] told me to keep the space, keep the keys and run it,” she said.

While Winston found the prospect daunting, because she had “no information, no knowledge on how to run a grocery store,” she decided to try her best.

“And here we are, 2023, and the store is pretty full of customers doing their holiday shopping right now,” she said.

“We have full bakery, where they’re baking cakes and pies, we have a full butcher, where they’re cutting custom cuts of meats, we have a [prepared meals area] where people can get their hot lunches and hot dinners.”

Maywood currently doesn’t have its own full-fledged grocery store, and Winston said that they decided to pursue

FILE

A Living Fresh grocery store may be coming to North Lawndale. opening a Living Fresh in the village after hearing from local officials. Tuskegee is Bill Winston’s hometown, and the family decided to explore putting a store over there after spotting a vacant space in the mall.

Winston said that they expect to open Maywood, Tuskegee and Bronzeville stores “in 24 months.”

The North Lawndale neighborhood currently doesn’t have any full-fledged grocery stores other than Freshway Market. The neighboring East Garfield Park and West Garfield Park communities don’t have any grocery stores at all.

Winston said that they are having conversations with Rush System for Health and other community stakeholders about opening the store in the neighborhood. Rush did not respond by deadline for comment.

With Living Fresh, Winston made the point of connecting with local entrepreneurs – an approach they intend to continue at the future locations. Early on, they reached out Brown Cow ice cream parlor and creamery.

“They have their ice cream and the cakes, and that’s an example of the partnership we went after,” Winston said.

“Next thing you know, you have [Forest Park Chamber of Commerce] members reaching out to other chamber members. So, I think it’s a chain reaction.”

They also reached out to the BBQ chef Dominique Leach, who grew up on the West Side and opened a restaurant in the Far South Side’s Pullman neighborhood.

Living Fresh hosts monthly vendor demonstrations, where customers can try free samples. The Dec. 16 demonstration, which will run between 11 a.m. and 2 p.m., will feature Leach, as well as Stephanie Hart, owner of the South Side’s iconic Brown Sugar Bakery. The bakery used to have an Austin location at the Westside Health Authority headquarters.

“I think, once you get the roots planted and you start growing on the ground, it makes the store and the community, and the children and families, inseparable,” Winston said.

Forest Park Review, December 6, 2023

GOEDERT CENTER Competing proposals from page 1 The news caused a stir among Goedert families, who are now left scrambling to find another location for their children to attend preschool. While many parents are still trying to secure spots at other local preschools, some are also trying to scout locations that the center would be able to lease to keep the Goedert community together.

During the special open board of education meeting for Forest Park School District 91 held on Wednesday evening, Sarah Thomas, early childhood education director, asked the board to consider the preschool as they work through the different possible use options for Grant-White, which was closed at the end of the 2021-22 school year due to declining enrollment.

In her pitch, Thomas provided the board information regarding their quarterly assessments along with a brief history of the center and information on the need for early childhood education in the area.

The preschool has 92 students enrolled in five classrooms, which are at full capacity. Thomas also said the preschool has a waitlist of approximately 150 students each semester.

Center officials said they hope to be able to lease the ground floor of Grant-White, which would allow the district to use the other areas of the building.

“We believe this could be an incredible opportunity to merge and support the broader community with a lasting and significant positive impact on the immediate future and long-term welfare of the children that we serve,” Thomas said.

Dominican University board member and president and CEO of the West Cook YMCA, Phillip Jimenez, was also in attendance to speak on the behalf of the Goedert Center. In the spirit of being a good tenant should the space be leased to Goedert, Jimenez said the preschool would consider any growth or desire from D91 to retake the space in the future as long as enough time notice was given to allow them to relocate.

“We don’t want you to feel, like we have heard in other meetings, that it could be an objective,” Jimenez said.

But no decision was once again made during the meeting by the board, who have already heard multiple proposals for the use of the space including from the Park District of Forest Park, a proposal by village officials to use the space as a youth center, and a proposal by the West Suburban Special Recreation Association, who was also present at the meeting on Wednesday night, once again pitching WSSRA as an option to the board.

The board has also held a Grant-White Harvest community listening session in early October to get more input from the community on what they would like to see be done with the building.

The board members, however, did use the special meeting to come to start hashing out what they do want to see the space used for, something that had not really been done until that evening.

“There will be a plan, I promise, we will be very thorough but this is the first [step],” said Shannon Wood, president of the board of education. “People just keep coming with ideas and we don’t know what we want so this is the step to direct that.”

Board members took turns describing what they would want to see in the space which included a space to support the arts, a space to support Forest Park community organizations-such as the theater

IGOR STUDENKOV

Former Grant-White building. program-, programs with an emphasis on children, mental health resources, and a multi-use space amongst others.

“What I want to see is something that serves as much of our community as possible,” said board member Kyra Tyler. “I want to fill holes that we don’t currently have [filled] in our community.”

Also mentioned was a space that would be able to accommodate the return of D91 students who receive special education and the 17 therapeutic students currently enrolled in the district.

While ideas were tossed around, board members seemed to agree that there needs to be a sense of priority given to D91 students.

“I think that if all of the presentations and people that came here to talk about what they would like to do, I honestly believe it is about

establishing trust and meeting the needs of people who are underprivileged but I also think that we cannot forget the people who are in our district now,” said Fuquan Brooks, saying he met a parent while campaigning who was very upset that her special needs child needed to go outside of the district to receive an education. “We are in a place where we cannot accommodate everyone and we really do need to sit back and think about what lines we will meet for our children. I am hesitant to give up this space.”

Another option for the space that board members seemed to agree with was moving the district office, which is currently on Des Plaines Avenue, to the Grant-White building.

Conversations regarding the future of Grant-White by the board will be ongoing with no date set yet on when a decision will be reached.

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Forest Park Review, December 6, 2023

Play It Again Sports grows its footprint, will add batting cages

The sports equipment store will take over the former Scratch Kitchen space

By IGOR STUDENKOV Staff Reporter

Play It Again Sports is expanding into the Scratch Kitchen restaurant’s original space right next door.

The new and used sports equipment and gear store at the 7400 block of Madison Street is part of a national franchise and buys used sports equipment from customers. As the Forest Park store co-franchisee Erich Krumrei explained to the Review, this model is especially popular with parents, because kids go through a lot of sports equipment, and this allows them to save money while reducing waste. He and his wife, Rachel Caskey, opened the store in 2021, leasing the space that previously housed a Hallmark store.

Krumrei said that the expanded floor plan will let them carry more inventory. They also plan to add batting cages in the back of the original space. Krumrei said that he is responding to the demand from the community – Forest Park simply doesn’t have many spaces where players can practice, especially during cold weather.

He anticipates that the expanded store and the batting cages will open in February 2024.

Krumrei said that they had a “great success” with the store – something that he attributed to the demand for what it offers.

“Kids grow out of their equipment so quickly, and to offer parents the opportunity to trade in used equipment and buy something else for their athlete — there’s nothing else around [in the area] that will allow them to do that,” he said.

Another factor, Krumrei said, is that some kids may try several different sports, and the cost of equipment can add up. If a child doesn’t like a sport, he said, the parents can trade the equipment in, saving money and keeping equipment out of the landfill in the process.

Krumrei said that the cages would only take up about 200 square feet of the store’s original 3,200 square foot space. They will be geared primarily, but not exclusively, to kids and local teams.

“We want to make sure we offer something that is a clean, fun space where people can come in and practice and train, that

FILE

Play It Again Sports sign. is not going to break the budget,” Krumrei said, adding that, as someone whose own kids play sports, he was very aware of just how few options there were in the area.

He said that he expects to offer extended hours for batting cages, but those details haven’t been finalized yet.

Scratch Kitchen left its original space for the larger digs at the former Slainte Irish Pub last spring. Play It Again will be leasing the space, which will allow them to increase inventory.

“I think it’s kind of a natural growth to the business,” Krumrei said. “We’ve been successful.”

He said he believes that the expansion would help the Madison Street commercial corridor as a whole.

“We’ve had a great success with the store

and the support in the community, selling gently used equipment and new equipment, and we’re really excited to have batting cages in the back of the store, which we think will bring business to the store, and the business corridor here on Madison,” Krumrei said.

In the two years since it opened, Play It Again Sports has sponsored local sports teams and various causes. Krumrei founded what has become the village’s annual Pride celebration. He said that he received nothing but support from the village government and the Forest Park community in general.

“I feel very fortunate to have a business in Forest Park,” he said. “It’s been a very good fit.”

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

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Forest Park Review, December 6, 2023

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Forest Park Review, December 6, 2023

Holiday magic on Madison

Forest Park’s annual Holiday Walk never fails to impress Nasty weather didn’t deter the hundreds of revelers from turning out for Forest Park’s seasonal magic during its annual Holiday Walk last weekend.

Santa and the missus delighted tots who lined up to whisper him their wishes.

Live window displays thrilled onlookers on their way

to shops, Santa and the ice sculptures by Nadeau.

And who could forget the Pippin Singers and Forest Park’s Own Kathryn and John Atwood? The chanteurs serenaded the crowds with Medieval & Renaissance holiday music and post-Old English carols.

PHOTOS BY BEN STUMPE

Forest Park Review, December 6, 2023

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Forest Park Review, December 6, 2023

C R I M E

Woman attacked at Pioneer Tap bar

A customer at Pioneer Tap bar was attacked by two women on Nov. 14 at around 8 p.m.

According to the victim and the victim’s friend, a woman that the victim had “a past history of differences with” came up behind her as she was sitting at the bar, grabbed the victim by the hair, pulled her to the ground and began beating her.

The second woman the attacker was with joined in, kicking the victim. The friend pulled the two off the victim, and the duo left the bar.

The victim had injuries in her right eye, left leg and left arm. While some of the injuries healed, the pain in her left shoulder joint and the lower back persisted, leading her to go to an emergency room Dec. 3. That’s when the victim decided to file a police report.

The bar had security cameras, but the police were unable to obtain the footage at the time of the report. The victim’s friend said she believed that some other

customers filmed in the incident on their phones, and she said she was going to try to get the footage.

Catalytic converter thefts Three catalytic converter thefts hit Forest Park – and, in one case, the thieves came back three days after the victim scared them off.

The first theft happened on Lathrop Avenue. The victim used his tan 2007 Toyota Prius, and he discovered the theft on the night of Nov. 27 at 2:30 a.m. when he started the car and heard that it was making a loud noise.

The second theft happened at the 800 block of Desplaines Avenue. On Nov. 29 at around 4:14 a.m., a witness spotted two men under the silver 2005 Hyundai Elantra, which was parked at the building parking lot. The witness saw the duo get out from under the car and drive off in a gray Sedan of unknown make and model. The police

officers who respond to the call confirmed that the catalytic converter was gone.

About half an hour later, the police got a call about another potential catalytic converter theft happening further north, at the 7300 block of Dixon Street. A victim saw two men hanging around his silver 2013 Hyundai Sonata and tried to scare them off. The duo fled.

An officer on patrol observed a silver Infiniti sedan near the Madison Street/Desplaines Avenue intersection, heading west, and saw two men inside. Thinking they might be the duo from the earlier theft, he tried to curb the Infiniti. The car raced through River Forest, eventually turning east on Lake Street and racing through Oak Park and into Chicago.

The police confirmed that the two didn’t steal the catalytic converter from the Hyundai.

However, the thieves came back the night of Dec. 2, at around 3 a.m. A witness saw two men get under the Hyundai, sawed off

the converter and drove off in a car that matched the description of the Infiniti.

These items were obtained from police reports filed by the Forest Park Police Department, Nov.27 to Dec. 3, and represent a portion of the incidents to which police responded. Unless otherwise indicated, anybody named in these reports has only been charged with a crime. These cases have not been adjudicated.

Compiled by Igor Studenkov

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Forest Park Review, December 6, 2023

15

Forest Park-area humanists celebrate 10-year anniversary ‘I was attracted to the theme of doing good work, doing service and not having a religious structure,’ one member said

By TOM HOLMES Contributing reporter

Members of the End of the Line Humanist in Oak Park/ Forest Park will celebrate the 10th anniversary of its founding at Shanahan’s Creole Kitchen next week.

The group is a chapter of American Humanist Association. Humanists are nontheists committed to living ethical and compassionate lives. They do “good without god or religion,” Karen Ury, president of the local humanist group, and Sue Slezewski, vice-president and secretary, explained.

“We are good,” each said, “not to ear n a reward in the afterlife, but for the sake of being good. I am good to others, because I know it’s the right thing to do. If you treat others poorly, it’s because you lack empathy, not because you lack religion.”

“When I see how nice and kind my students are to each other,” Slezewski, a middle school teacher, said. “I don’t think about religion. I think about the goodness that is inside them. I don’t think they are operating on the level of religion.”

The group, however, is not anti-religion. “We’re not not anything” Ury said.

She added that they believe those ethical principles come from inside each person and not from an external source. The End the Line Humanist Group – the name refers to the area, or the farthest points west for the Blue and Green lines -- is composed of people who share the same values. And, in that sense the values shared in the group culture come from other people.

Slezewski said she joined the group in 2016 because, We are driven by empathy, logic and science. That’s the vibe that attracts people to our table at the Day in Our Village and why they join us.”

“We aren’t running from anything like bad religious experiences,” she added. “New participants are attracted to what we do.”

For example, one of the groups’ recent speakers at a meeting at the Oak Park Library was Karen Ozment, who wrote “Grace Without God: The Search for Meaning, Purpose and Belonging in a Secular Age.” Another speaker was Mary Beth O’Conner, who recovered from an addiction to narcotics and became a federal judge. When she was in recovery, she was required to attend AA meetings which follow a spiritual program known as the Twelve Steps. Not interested in an approach that involved a “higher power,” O’Conner created her own program without a spiritual dimension.

PROVIDED

End of the Line Humanists at Fermilab.

The End of the Line Humanist talks a lot about separation of church and state.

Ury said that the group, which numbered less than 10 members when she joined 10 years ago, now has 900 followers on Facebook -- 560 on Meetup and 300 on its mailing list.

She said that the group tries to get together at least once a month, but those gatherings can take the form of a service project with Beyond Hunger or Housing Forward, or as speaker, or a social event with games like Trivia or a book discussion.

Sometimes a meeting will focus on a question like “how many tons of carbon dioxide are emitted into the atmosphere annually?” [answer: 37.12 billion metric tons] “When I looked at the group’s website,” Uri recalled, “I realized that I was a humanist. This is what I always believed; I just didn’t know there was a name for it.”

The 10-year celebration will be held at 7 p.m., Wednesday Dec. 14. Shanahan’s Creole Kitchen at 7353 Madison St. in Forest Park.

For more information, visit https://elhumanists.org

From the Humanist Manifesto III The time has come for widespread recognition of the radical changes in religious beliefs throughout the modern world. The time is past for mere revision of traditional attitudes. Science and economic change have disrupted the old beliefs. Religions the world over are under the necessity of coming to terms with new conditions created by a vastly increased knowledge and experience. In every field of human activity, the vital movement is now in the direction of a candid and explicit humanism.

In order that religious humanism may be better understood we, the undersigned, desire to make certain affirmations which we believe the facts of our contemporary life demonstrate.

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Forest Park Review, December 6, 2023

NOTICE of Proposed Property Tax Increase for the Village of Forest Park

Growing Community Media

a non-profit newsroom

I. A public hearing to approve a proposed property tax levy increase for the Village of Forest Park for 2023 will be held on Monday, December 18, 2023, at 6:45 p.m., in the Council Chambers of Village Hall located in the lower level of 517 Desplaines Avenue, Forest Park, IL 60130.

Any person desiring to appear at the public hearing and present testimony to the taxing district may contact Village Clerk Vanessa Moritz, 517 Desplaines Avenue, Forest Park, Illinois or at 708-615-6202.

II. The corporate and special purpose property taxes extended or abated for 2022 were $8,885,598.46.

The proposed corporate and special property taxes to be levied for 2023 are $9,463,163. This represents a 6.5% increase over the previous year.

III. The property taxes extended for debt service and public building commission leases for 2022 were $-0-.

The estimated property taxes to be levied for debt service and public building commission leases for 2023 are $-0-. This represents a 0% increase over the previous year.

IV. The total property taxes extended or abated for 2022 were $8,885,598.46.

The estimated total property taxes to be levied for 2023 are $9,463,163. This represents a 6.5% increase over the previous year. /s/ Vanessa Moritz Village Clerk Village of Forest Park 517 Desplaines Avenue Forest Park, IL 60130

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Forest Park Review, December 6, 2023

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$40,000 by Dec. 31 Our local news is made possible by the donations of our neighbors These 33 people are our 2023 GCM MatchMakers. Together they pooled $40,000.

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Forest Park Review, December 6, 2023

I HELP THEM F

ND A

Home for the Holidays WA RM Y OU R H E A RT A N D HO M E

by adding a pet to your family this holiday season.

HEIDI | Days in the shelter: 409

Heidi was nervous when she first came to ACL as a stray. But before long, she started to come out of her shell and build great friendships with our staff and volunteers! Heidi loves toys more than anything, and after more than a year in the shelter, it’s time she found her forever playmate.

Days in the shelter: 446 | CARAMEL Caramel is a sweet 8-year-old cat who just wants to be near her people. Though she wasn’t eating when she first came to the shelter, our medical team was able to diagnose her health concerns and get her back on track in no time! Caramel is always excellent when it’s time to take her medicine, and all she needs now is a loving home with lots of good napping spots.

ZELDA | Days in the shelter: 179

Zelda came to ACL after she was found outdoors and rescued. Though she was very shy at first, this sweet bunny has since completely blossomed!

Zelda is affectionate, cuddly, and laid-back— not to mention adorable with her magnificent mane—and she would love nothing more than to find her forever home this holiday season.

Can’t commit to adoption? CONSIDER BECOMING A FOSTER HOME! Email volunteer@animalcareleague.org for more information.

708.848.8155

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Being homeless is no way to spend the holidays.

Adopt a shelter pet this holiday season!

Home for the Holidays Adoption Event

Saturday, December 16 Time: 11am-7pm 1009 Garfield in Oak Park

• Waived adoption fees for all adult animals who have been at the shelter for longer than 30 days.

• No appointment necessary.

• Adoptions include all current vaccines, a microchip with registration, and spay/neuter.

• Free exam at VCA Animal Hospital.

• 1 week subscription to GoodPup. • A lifetime of love!

O U R

V I E W

Grant-White options focus D91

P

erhaps in the wealth of options that Forest Park’s District 91 elementary schools seem to have right now, the school board will begin to find clarity on just how it could best use Grant-White School. That Randolph Street school building was closed 18 months ago as enrollment declines in the district made a tough decision necessary.

Over the past several months the school administration and board began a discernment process to decide the future of the upto-date facility. When discussions began, the school board seemed surprisingly uncertain about its goals for re-use.

Since then, three serious suitors have called on the school board and made their case for the adaptive reuse of the space on some version of a long-term lease. All three proposals involve serving youth, are locally focused, and would address legitimate community needs.

Most recently, representatives of the Goedert Center, a longtime early childhood facility about to be displaced from a Fenwick High School-owned building in River Forest, proposed leasing the first floor of the space so its work can continue past next June.

The village of Forest Park has proposed shifting some programs from the decrepit Community Center to Grant-White with a focus on teens. The Park District of Forest Park would like to secure the building, along with the West Suburban Special Recreation Association, to house youth-related programs it had planned for a to-be-constructed building on Harrison Street.

The school board has listened but until a special meeting last week had not actively shared the somewhat diverse, somewhat consistent thoughts of its own members about what to do with Grant-White.

Members again expressed a desire to maintain control of the building in the event, far off we’d say, that enrollment grows and the school is needed once more for classrooms. Part of that message is that the district would like to limit the retrofitting of the building to preserve its original use.

There was a shared view that the strongest uses ought to provide services to current D91 students or, at least in the main, to Forest Parkers. Among the new ideas we heard was for D91 to use Grant-White as a home base for the 17 D91 students currently sent outside the district for various special ed and therapeutic education needs. These are students with highly specialized needs.

Unclear to us whether D91 can create similar programs on such a small scale.

Finally, the idea was raised of moving D91’s administrative offices out of its nondescript building on Desplaines (next to the McDonald’s) and onto Grant-White’s second floor. Interesting notion and the current site might be put to a better, taxpaying use.

The school district is fortunate to have so many options, each one from a worthy source. And while it is good that board members are starting to sift their priorities, the suitors may not wait forever for a decision to be made.

Forest Park Review, December 6, 2023

OPINION

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19

A season of hope

t was the first big snow of winter, three days after Thanksgiving and two days after Black Friday.

When Pastor Walter Mitty got out of bed and looked out the window, his spirit lifted. November was his least favorite month of the year. All of the colorful leaves had fallen, and the tree’s naked branches stood depressingly bare against the usually gray, overcast skies. Even when skies were blue, there was less and less sunlight each day.

But on that Sunday the snow clothed nature’s nakedness with a beautiful white robe. He started humming, Sleigh bells ring, are you listening?

In the lane, snow is glistening A beautiful sight We’re happy tonight Walking in a winter wonderland.

He got dressed, brewed a cup of coffee, looked at his watch, and discovered that he had half an hour before he had to run over to church, so he lit a candle, set it on the window sill and gazed transfixed at the gently falling snow for the next 30 minutes.

He pondered how nature had its cycles. Just when he got tired of freezing temperatures, spring would arrive, the sandhill cranes would return, daffodils and cherry trees would bloom and his little congregation would celebrate Easter with hymns of new life. An ancient and ongoing series of undulating peaks and valleys.

When the residents of Poplar Park were enjoying days of Indian Summer, pessimists would mutter, “It won’t last. Winter is just around the corner. We’re living in Chicago, after all.”

When the calendar turned the page to November and the days got cold, dark and rainy, optimists would smile and point out that Thanksgiving and Christmas would soon be here.

Songbirds and retired snowbirds would fly to Florida and Arizona for the winter; others without the resources or with work commitments would grit their teeth and hunker down; still others would experience the changing seasons as a profound, life-enhancing rhythm to be embraced.

Since everyone at the Poplar Park Community Church understood that attendance would be low on the Sunday following Thanksgiving — partly because some were out of town and because even some of the regulars would be participating in the shopping frenzy between Black Friday and Cyber Monday — they had cancelled the coffee hour and Pastor Walt was back home at the parsonage at 11:30.

He lit the candle again and resumed watching the

snow fall.

“It’s funny,” he pondered, “how if you’re busy with lots of things on your to-do list, a snowfall like this one is a frustrating irritation, but if you’re willing to let go of your agenda when life doesn’t go the way you want it, it’s a gift.”

Some of Mitty’s classmates at Lincoln High School in Manitowoc were bused in from the country, and in the lunchroom he would sometimes listen to them talk about life on their farms. They would tell him about working long hours helping their dads during harvest time. “Make hay while the sun shines,” they would say.

But even at harvest time, if there was an all-day rain, at breakfast they would hear their fathers say, “Hon, it looks like an all-day pisser. I’m going to drive in to town and go to the feed mill or Punky’s Tavern and hang out with the guys for an hour or two.”

In seminary Pastor Walt had learned the Serenity Prayer: “God grant me the serenity to accept what I can’t change, change what I can, and the wisdom to know the difference.”

He remembered his father talking about the Ice Bowl when the Packers played the Cowboys and the temperature plunged to -13 degrees. God grant me the serenity to accept what I can’t change.

Now the Super Bowl is always played in a domed stadium. God grant me the courage to change what I can.

Pastor Walt’s thoughts then turned to Rosalynn Carter and her husband. “Character,” he thought. “Character; that’s what she and Jimmy had. Whether their approval rating was up or down, that couple tried to do the right thing. Whether at the center of power in the Washington D.C. or a defeated, one-term former president living in Plains, Georgia (pop. 573), how they played the game was more important than winning.”

Mitty reflected on the irony of Carter winning the Nobel Peace Prize for his (and Rosalynn’s) efforts to bring peace in the Middle East with the Camp David Accords while W. was planning to invade Iraq.

“Those who don’t learn from history,” he thought, “are bound to repeat it.”

As he watched the snow fall, he realized that winter was finally here, but also that the Christian Church was entering the season of Advent which focuses on hope.

“Some people,” he realized, “think of hope as a passive thing — waiting patiently for something good to happen. While Rosalynn and Jimmy thought of hope as empowering them to actively do something because they believed that at the end of the game they’ll be on the winning side.”

TOM HOLMES

20

Forest Park Review, December 6, 2023 F O R E S T PA R K

REVIEW Editor Erika Hobbs Staff Reporter Igor Studenkov, Amaris Rodriguez Digital Manager Stacy Coleman Contributing Reporters Tom Holmes, John Rice, Bob Skolnik, Jackie Glosniak, Robert J. Lifka 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 Sales and Marketing Representatives Lourdes Nicholls, Ben Stumpe Business & Development Manager Mary Ellen Nelligan Circulation Manager Jill Wagner Publisher Dan Haley Special Projects Manager Susan Walker

Board of Directors Chair Judy Greffin 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 PHONE 708-366-0600 ■ FAX 708-467-9066 EMAIL forestpark@wjinc.com CIRCULATION Jill@oakpark.com ONLINE ForestParkReview.com Postmaster: Please send address changes to: Forest Park Review,141 S. Oak Park Ave., Oak Park, IL 60302-2901. Periodical rate postage paid at Oak Park, IL (USPS No 0205-160) In-county subscriptions: $34 per year. $55 for two years, $69 for three years.

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M

Ducky was a little bit of heaven

other-in-law bashing is common on sitcoms. They are portrayed as overbearing, meddling and judgmental. The “motherin-law from hell” may be a stock character but I couldn’t relate.

That’s because I had the motherin-law from heaven.

My mother-in-law, Florence “Duck” Davids, passed away peacefully on Nov. 28 at the age of 94. Shortly before she died, she performed two remarkable feats: “The Miracle of the Stairs” and the “Magical Tour of Walmart.”

Born on July 4, 1929, she remained a child of the Great Depression her entire life. Frugal but never cheap, she was generous with her money and extravagant with her time.

Duck acquired her nickname for her love of swimming. She was still taking dips with her great-grandchildren in her 90s. Duck had a year-round tan which went well with her warm smile. The first time I saw that smile, she was doing laundry in the basement of her Berwyn two-flat.

She was a hard worker but didn’t complain. With her husband John, she raised five kids and sent them to private school.

Christian education and church attendance

were very important to Duck.

Her faith, though, was not confined to church. She became a missionary to the laundromat and the neighborhood grocery store — never preachy but very caring. She enjoyed hosting family parties and having people over for coffee.

Duck was a stay-at-home mom who hated staying home. During her later years, she was still the most active person we knew. Forever volunteering, for years, she made sandwiches for Roseland residents and also worked at a re-sale shop in Broadview.

And she became one of the shop’s best customers. She loved bargain-hunting at re-sale shops, Goodwill and the Dollar Store. She had no use for fancy stores or restaurants, preferring “family” eateries, where food and coffee were plentiful.

Duck drank coffee day and night and wondered why she had trouble sleeping. She even joined a coffee break ministry that welcomed newcomers to church. In a different era, she might have served as a minister. Her faith was deep and strong and she wasn’t afraid to share it.

She embraced community wherever she went. This included frequent visits to Forest

JOHN RICE

A

W

L O O K

B A C K

I N

T I M E

Bluelight special

hile restructuring after bankruptcy in early 2003, Kmart announced the possible closing of the Forest Park store located at 7630 Roosevelt Road. The local discount store did stay open 11 more years in town before finally closing its doors. The large retail space was later filled

by Home Owners Bargain Outlet, or HOBO, from 2017 to 2018. Cook County Health Department, in partnership with the state of Illinois, opened a COVID-19 vaccination facility in the former store in March of 2021.

Jill Wagner

PHOTO BY JOSH HOSKINS

The Dec. 11, 2002 Forest Park Review announced the possible closing of the Forest Park Kmart.

Park. Duck and John didn’t just watch our kids. They cleaned the house, did the laundry and prepared dinner. She came to know our neighbors and friends.

Many current and former neighbors came to her wake. They gathered in the sanctuary and talked over the tops of the pews. It reminded me of over-the-fence conversations we enjoyed in our backyards. It was Duck who brought everyone together that day. She showed us how to listen and how to love.

On Thanksgiving, we were hosting and wondered how Duck could make it up our stairs. They are a challenge for the ablebodied, let alone a 94-year-old using a walker and carrying oxygen. She made it, though, with our kids helping her. One of them said Duck climbed the stairs like a marathoner determined to reach the finish line.

A few days later, my wife took Duck to Walmart. There were no wheelchairs available, so she used a motorized scooter. She had never driven a car in her life or operated any kind of vehicle but here she was, zipping around the store, tossing items into her basket.

The next morning, we learned Duck had passed in her sleep.

My mother-in-law from heaven was a blessing to everyone and her example will inspire our family for generations to come.

Forest Park Review, December 6, 2023

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ENGINEERING TECHNICIAN

The Village of Oak Park is seeking qualified candidates for the position of Engineering Technician II in the Public Works Department. The employee performs layout, draft and design drawings from field survey information and field notes for various engineering and planning projects including existing improvements, right-of-way and various utilities and performs a variety of field inspections. Applicants are encouraged to visit the Village of Oak Park’s website http://www.oak-park.us/jobs. Interested and qualified applicants must complete a Village of Oak Park application. Position is open until filled.

GENERAL WAREHOUSE WORKER

General Warehouse worker. Some assembly and build projects. Some other job duties may include but are not limited to general building upkeep, painting, light cleaning, lifting 50lbs+, driving company vehicles on occasion, operating forklifts and scissor lift, assisting in other warehouse tasks such as loading and unloading trucks, shipping and receiving.

Send Resume to Michelle@sievertelectric.com

Tax Manager @ BDO USA, P.C. (fka BDO USA, LLP) (Chicago, IL) F/T. Cndct rview of tax retrns & rslve all tax issues w/clnts. Telecommutng prmittd 100% of time. Mstr’s deg (or frgn eqvlnt) in Bus Admin, Accn, Tax or rltd & 1 yr of exp in job offrd, Tax Assoc or rltd. Altrntvly, ER wll accpt Bchlr’s deg (or frgn equvlnt) in Bus Admin, Accon, Tax or rltd & 5 yrs of prgrssvly resp exp. Mst hve exp in ea: Tax plnng, rcmmndtn of tax strtgs & tax prep prjcts, incl bdgeting & plnning; Usng tax rsearch d/bases such as BNA & RIA; Usng tax cmplnc procss sftwr: GoFileRoom, GoSystemRS, Caseware, or BNA Depreciatn Sftwr; Prep of Prfit/ Loss rprts; Corp tax, cnsldtns & prtnrshps; Mnging tax prfssnls. Mst hve CPA; OR IRS EA; OR suffcnt edu/exp rqrmnts (as dtrmnd by state Board of Accntncy for CPA or by IRS for EA) to rcve CPA or EA w/in 24 months of hre or prmtn; OR be a member of a US state bar. ER wll accpt any sutble cmbntn of edu, training or exp. Mail resume: T. Brown, HR, BDO USA, P.C.; 615 South College St, Suite 1200, Charlotte, NC 28202. Job title & code QS-IL in cv ltr. EOE

Job Type: Full-time Benefits Salary: $16.00 - $18.00 per hour Schedule: 8 hour shift Monday to Friday Data Analyst - Infra Domain sought

by Crystal Equation Corp. (Chicago, IL). Work assignments may be in various unanticipated work locations in the US. Telecommuting permitted.

Please apply to Job #38290 by sending resume to apply@crystalequation.com

MARKETPLACE

WANTED TO BUY WANTED MILITARY ITEMS:

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

Call Uncle Gary 708-522-3400

MOVING SALE RIVERSIDE MOVING SALE EVERYTHING MUST GO! 180 HERRICK FRI DEC 8 & SAT DEC 9 9AM TO 3PM

Bedroom sets, dressers, lamps, dining set, side tables, couch, kitchen items, rugs, artwork, much misc., all priced to sell. No early birds.

ELECTRICAL

ELECTRICAL

A&A ELECTRIC

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

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

PAINTING

FLOORS KLIS FLOORING INC.

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

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

CLASSIC PAINTING Fast & Neat Painting/Taping/Plaster Repair

PETS While you’re away, your pets are okay . . . at home

cat calls

Oak Park’s Original Pet Care Service – Since 1986

Daily dog exercising Complete pet care in your home House sitting • Plant care Bonded References

708-524-1030

PET SITTING

Pet loving Oak Park Grandma would like to sit your pet. Available days, nights, weekends. Email Belinda at bjavdek@gmail.com for costs and references.

Low Cost •708.749.0011

Drywall H Painting H Tile Plumbing H Electric H Floors Windows H Doors H Siding Ask Us What We Don’t Do

708-296-2060

R E A L E S TAT E OAK PARK HOME FOR SALE BY OWNER 712 S. KENILWORTH AVE.

5-bedroom, 2.5-bath. About 2600 square feet, plus 600 square foot basement. 50’ x 150’ lot. Asking $789,000. Text Duane Binns 630-926-6833 with your email for a brochure.

R E N TA L S

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

OAK PARK & FOREST PARK

708-386-7355

MMpropMgmt.com

Complete Bid Packet can be obtained by contacting Ed Redd at: eredd@yemba-inc.org.

Pre-bid site inspection is optional, and is scheduled to occur by appointment only. Please contact Ed Redd at 708.719.6701 to schedule an appointment.

Bid Deadline is 9:00a on 1/6/24 This is a Federally-Funded (Community Development Block Grant) Project and is subject to all applicable Federal rules, regulations and guidelines, including but not limited to payment of Prevailing Wage.

Published in Wednesday Journal December 6, 2023

PUBLIC NOTICES LEGAL NOTICE STATE OF ILLINOIS) COUNTY OF COOK )ss Circuit Court of Cook County, County Department, Domestic Relations Division.

In re ALLOCATION OF GLORIA RESENDIZ, Petitioner and ISAAC SANTACRUZ, Respondent, Case No. 2021d450036.

The requisite affidavit for publication having been filed, notice is hereby given to you, the above named Respondent, that a Petition has been filed in the Circuit Court of Cook County, Illinois, by the Petitioner, for temporary and permanent sole allocation of parental responsibilities, child support, contribution to child-related expenses and for otherrelief; and that said suit is now pending.

HANDYMAN Mike’s Home Repair

HOME FOR SALE

YEMBA INC. is soliciting bids for a GENERAL CONTRACTOR to install 10 can lights with (2)3-way switches across adjacent office ceiling spaces and (4) 7 x 22 vision lite door inserts inside existing wood office doors of our small commercial building located in the Village of Oak Park, Illinois.

Let the sun shine in...

Public Notice: Your right to know...

In print • Online

Now, therefore, unless you, the said Respondent, file your response to said Petition or otherwise make your appearance therein, in the Office of the Clerk of the Circuit Court of Cook County, Illinois, Room 802, Richard J. Daley Center, 50 West Washington Street, in the City of Chicago, Illinois, on or before January 8, 2024, default may be Entered against you at any time after That day, and a judgment entered in Accordance with the prayer of said Petition.

DOROTHY A. BROWN, Clerk.

Published in Wednesday Journal December 6, 13, 20, 2023

Available to you 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, every day of the year OakPark.com RBLandmark.com ForestParkReview.com AustinWeeklyNews.com

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: Y23011198 on November 16, 2023 Under the Assumed Business Name of FULWELL 18 CONSULTING with the business located at: PO BOX 265 BROOKFIELD, IL 60513. The true and real full name(s) and residence address of the owner(s)/partner(s) is: JOHN MILLER, 3415 ARDEN AVENUE BROOKFIELD, IL 60513, USA. Published in RBLandmark November 22, 29, December 6, 2023

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: Y23011210 on November 21, 2023 Under the Assumed Business Name of TONIC CONSULTING GROUP with the business located at: 1017 N GROVE AVE, OAK PARK, IL 60302. The true and real full name(s) and residence address of the owner(s)/partner(s) is: WILLIAM B. BUNKERS 1017 N GROVE AVE, OAK PARK, IL 60302, USA Published in Wednesday Journal November 29, December 6, 13, 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.

The 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.

This 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

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Support Community Journalism.

Buy a subscription to:

Call 708.524.8300

Forest Park Review, December 6, 2023 23

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

PUBLIC NOTICES

PUBLIC NOTICE PROPOSED 1ST SUBSTANTIONAL AMENDMENT TO THE VILLAGE OF OAK PARK COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT BLOCK GRANT PROGRAM YEAR 2023 ACTION PLAN Date of Publication: December 6, 2023 Village of Oak Park 123 Madison Street Oak Park, IL 60302 (708) 383-6400 Notice is hereby given of a proposed Substantial Amendment to the Community Development Block Grant Program (CDBG) Program Year (PY) 2023 Action Plan for $200,000.00 of funding allocations, currently scheduled for the PY 2023 Streetscaping project, be added to the PY 2023 ADA Sidewalks project.

Additional funds would make the Sidewalks project total $600,000.00.

The proposed substantial amendment is on file at the Village of Oak Park, 123 Madison Street, Oak Park, IL 60302 and is

available for public examination and copying weekdays from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. CST from December 6, 2023 to January 8, 2024.

PUBLIC COMMENTS Any comments concerning the proposed substantial amendment may be submitted in writing to the Village of Oak Park, 123 Madison Street, Oak Park, IL 60302, via: email to Vanessa Matheny, Grants Supervisor, at vmatheny@oak-park.us, or at the Public Hearing to be held from 3:30PM-4:30PM on January 4, 2024. Please send a request to the above referenced email address to attend the virtual hearing.

Reasonable accommodations will be made for persons with disabilities and non-English speaking persons, as needed.

PUBLIC NOTICES

PUBLIC NOTICES

Village of Oak Park PUBLIC COMMENT PERIOD for the: Community Development Block Grant Program Year 2022 CONSOLIDATED ANNUAL PERFORMANCE AND EVALUATION REPORT Date of Publication: December 6, 2023 Village of Oak Park 123 Madison Street Oak Park, IL 60302 (708) 383-6400 PUBLIC COMMENT PERIOD Notice is hereby given that the Village of Oak Park Program Year 2022 Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Draft Consolidated Annual Performance and Evaluation Report (CAPER) will be available for public review beginning Thursday, December 7, 2023.

The CAPER is the Village’s annual CDBG report to the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). It will reflect the Program Year 2022 results, which began October 1, 2022 and ended September 30, 2023.

The Village of Oak Park invites comments on the CAPER. The

Published in Wednesday Journal, December 6, 2023

public comment period will begin December 7, 2023, and end December 22, 2023 at 5:00pm CST. The report will be available by visiting the Village of Oak Park, 123 Madison Street, Oak Park, IL 60302 and at: www.oakpark.us/cdbg.

PUBLIC COMMENTS Any comments concerning the CAPER may be submitted in writing to the Village of Oak Park, 123 Madison Street, Oak Park, IL 60302, via: email to Vanessa Matheny, Grants Supervisor, at vmatheny@oakpark.us, or at the Public Hearing to be held from 3:30PM-4:30PM on December 18, 2023. Please send a request to the above referenced email address to attend the virtual hearing.

Reasonable accommodations will be made for persons with disabilities and non-English speaking persons, as needed.

Published in Wednesday Journal, December 6, 2023

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: Wednesday Journal • Forest Park Review Austin Weekly News Riverside-Brookfield Landmark

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Partner with us.

Donate at GrowingCommunityMedia.org Growing Community Media NFP is a 501(c)3 not-for-profit organization

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24

Forest Park Review, December 6, 2023

A Special Advertising Section

2023

Holiday

Spectacular!

Your Guide to Holiday Shopping & Dining in Oak Park, River Forest & Forest Park

B2 December 6, 2023

Holiday Spectacular presented by

Holiday Sale

25% OFF All Holiday Items Dec 18-31 Shop fair-trade, artisan-made, handcrafted goods this holiday season.

Every purchase you make supports our mission of helping fair-trade artisans around the world.

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. 121 N Marion St

Special Advertising Section

Special Advertising Section

Holiday Spectacular presented by

December 6, 2023

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Holiday Spectacular presented by

L

Special Advertising Section

A note from the Chamber

et’s sleigh the holiday gifting game by diving into the groove of shopping local!

Picture this: strolling down our festively lit streets, shades on, vibing to the tunes of the neighborhood joint. Shopping local isn’t just a choice; it’s like picking your favorite holiday song – personal, cool, and totally in the spirit.

Ever been stuck in the same-old gift maze of big-box stores? Yawn. Local shops are the merry elves of uniqueness, curating a wishlist as diverse as your quirkiest relatives. Want to make a holiday statement? Ditch the generic and embrace the local cheer. You’re not just wrapping gifts; you’re wrapping up the spirit of our community.

Shopping locally is crucial to helping our environment – less shipping, less packaging, less holiday waste. Choosing local isn’t just cool; it’s a subtle superhero move for the planet.

Plus, the faces behind the counter? They become your holiday elves, guiding you through the gift-giving wonderland.

Staff Editor Erika Hobbs Contributor James Porter Digital Manager Stacy Coleman Design/Production Manager Andrew Mead Editorial Design Manager Javier Govea Designer Susan McKelvey Marketing Representatives Lourdes Nicholls, Ben Stumpe Business & Development Manager Mary Ellen Nelligan Circulation Manager Jill Wagner

Here’s to being effortlessly personal, ecoconscious, and the holiday legend in your own festive tale. Shop local this holiday season, because who needs a global gift empire when you’ve got a local empire of awesome?

Cheers to that!

Darien Marion-Burton Executive Director OPRF Chamber of Commerce

Publisher Dan Haley Special Projects Manager Susan Walker HOW TO REACH US 141 S. Oak Park Ave. Oak Pak, IL 60302 Phone 708-524-8300 www.oakpark.com © 2023 Growing Community Media NFP.

CHORUS & BRASS ENSEMBLE

ANDREW MEGILL, CONDUCTOR

HOLIDAY BRASS & CHORAL CONCERTS Inspiring music in beautiful spaces

Thursday, Dec 14, 7:30 pm GRACE LUTHERAN CHURCH, RIVER FOREST

baroque.org/holiday | 312.551.1414

ACT NOW— TICKETS ARE SELLING QUICKLY!

Special Advertising Section

Holiday Spectacular presented by

December 6, 2023

Weekday Lunches - 11am-3pm (Nov. 1st- March 31st) Soup or Salad Included With Purchase of Entrée Mondays - $10 House Martini ‘s (With Purchase of Food) Tuesdays – ½ Price Appetizer (With Purchase of Entrée) Wednesdays – $5 Glasses of House Wine (With Purchase of Food) Thursdays- $8 House Specialty Cocktails (With Purchase of Food) Weekday evening specials 4pm-9pm (11.1.23-12.31.23)*

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B6 December 6, 2023

Holiday Spectacular presented by

Special Advertising Section

Holiday Spectacular presented by

Special Advertising Section

Holiday events December 6-31

Ron’s Very Special Christmas Special

Voicebox with Cathy Richardson: Holiday Show

Thursday, December 7, 8 p.m., FitzGerald's This is the 14th annual edition of this event, which kicks off the holiday season with a huge flourish. Backed by a band called the Downsized Elves, a cavalcade of stars will take the stage, including Dag Juhlin, Cayne Collier, Michelle Billingsley & Wild Earp, Christine Melody, the Famous Brothers, the Christmas Sisters, Laura Lopardo, and the Chidren’s School Singers. Ages 21 and up. $20 (tickets to this event are sold out), 6615 Roosevelt Road, Berwyn.

Tuesday, December 12, 8 p.m., FitzGerald's Together with Voicebox’s Maureen Muldoon, singer Cathy Richardson will sing songs inspired by spokenword stories. Afterwards, audience members are invited to share their own stories about the holidays (limited to five sentences). Check out themes at voiceboxstories. com $15, 6615 Roosevelt Road, Berwyn.

It’s A Wonderful Life: Viewing Party Monday, December 11, 7 p.m., FitzGerald's Annual showing of this Frank Capra classic holiday movie. Tickets are sold out. 6615 Roosevelt Road, Berwyn.

CONTINUED ON PAGE B9

December 6, 2023

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Here's to the CICNAPARADISO holidays...

Here's to the Familyownedandaperatedsince1995

Here's to the holidays...

Here's to the holidays...

holidays...

Holiday Parties

'Tis the season for holiday parties, and Cucina is ready to celebrate with you! Book your holiday party now at our Cucina, or celebrate at yours with our Holiday Catering Menu!

Gift Cards Give the gift of good taste with Gift Cards from Cucina Paradiso. We'll even throw in a $25 Bonus card just for you for every $100 purchased! *Complimentary $25 card valid January 2nd - February 28th, 2024. Gift cards can only be redeemed in person. No outside apps or ordering platforms may be utilized with gift cards. Not valid with any other discounts or promotions.

cucinaoakpark.com 708.848.3434 • 814Paradiso!

North Blvd., Oak Park Happy• Holidays from Cucina

B8 December 6, 2023

Holiday Spectacular presented by

Special Advertising Section

Get Your Holiday Makeup Here!

We are now hiring stylists!

& C L Y D O N S A L O N & D AY S P A 708 • 771 • 2418 1048 CHIC AGO AVE • OAK PARK, IL 60302 WWW.CLYDONHAIRSALON.COM

B L O W O U T B A R & K E R AT I N T R E AT M E N T S

Mom & Me Nails!

Dad & Me Haircut!

• Haircut and style • Color and highlights • Manicure and pedicure

• Eyebrow and full facial threading • Makeup

• Birthday parties • Spa party packages & privateparty room

1105 Chicago Ave., Oak Park • 708 613 4723 • www.kidshairsalonandspa.com

Special Advertising Section

H O L D AY E V E N T S

give a kit give a kit

Holiday Spectacular presented by C O N T I N U E D

F R O M

P A G E

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December 6, 2023

this holiday season this holiday season

Holiday Ornaments and Jewelry Kits Holiday Ornaments and Jewelry Kits One-of-a-Kind Jewelry and Gift Certificates One-of-a-Kind Jewelry alsoGift available and Certificates also Great available for teachers, essential

A Charlie Brown Christmas Happy Hour

Holiday Family Show With Mr. Dave Music

Monday, December 11, 6 p.m., FitzGerald's The Kevin Fort Trio plays jazzy standards composed

by Vince Guaraldi for the Charlie Brown Christmas TV special. Tickets are sold out. $8, 6615 Roosevelt Road, Berwyn.

Sunday, December 10, 10:15 a.m., FitzGerald's Special Christmas show with Mr. Dave, one of the foremost children’s music performers. $25, 6615 Roosevelt Road, Berwyn.

Holiday Big Bands & BBQ: Shout Section Big Band Sunday, December 10, 7 p.m., FitzGerald's The Shout Section Big Band blasts their way through a jazzy holiday evening. 6615 Roosevelt Road, Berwyn.

A Charlie Brown Christmas Brunch Saturday, December 9, 11 a.m.-1 p.m., FitzGerald's The Chris White Trio performs songs from the Charlie Brown Christmas TV special. Tickets to this event are sold out. $10, 6615 Roosevelt Road, Berwyn.

A Charlie Brown Christmas Brunch Sunday, December 10, 11 a.m.; Sunday, December 10, 1 p.m., FitzGerald's The Kevin Fort Trio plays jazzy standards composed

by Vince Guaraldi for the Charlie Brown Christmas TV special. Tickets are sold out. $10, 6615 Roosevelt Road, Berwyn.

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workers, stocking stuffers Great for teachers, essential or hostess gifts workers, stocking stuffers or hostess gifts

Snowflake ornament drop-in workshop is back!

Snowflake ornament drop-in workshop is back!

For details go to www.beadinhand.com/holiday-special-events

beadinhand.com 145 Harrison Street 708-848-1761 beadinhand.com 145 Harrison Street Hours: 708-848-1761 Mon, Tues, Thurs, Fri: 11–6 Wed: 1–6; Sat: 10–5 Hours: Sun: Closed except 17 Mon, Tues, Thurs, Fri:Dec 11–6 Wed: 1–6; Sat: 10–5 Sun: Closed except Dec 17

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Holiday Spectacular presented by

Special Advertising Section

WESTWORK Painting & Remodeling “Professionals at Affordable Prices”

708 848-4800

Email: westworkpainting@att.net

$150 OFF

INTERIOR HOME PAINTING, WOOD RE-FINISHING & PLASTERING ($500 AND OVER)

Exterior & Interior Painting & Staining SPECIALISTS!

Serving the Forest Park Community for over 35 years!

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THE HOLIDAY COLLECTION

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SHIP NATIONWIDE RECEIVE A FREE $10 GIFT CARD WITH $50 GIFT CARD PURCHASE -BAKE SHOP ONLYGOURMET COOKIES COOKIE SUBSCRIPTIONS curated holiday gift boxes diy cookie boxES handcrafted hot cocoa marshmallows Order online at www.blackoutbakingco.com 210 S MARION STREET, OAK PARK 708.948.7405

Special Advertising Section

Holiday Spectacular presented by

December 6, 2023

E HOLIDAY PACK & SHIP STORE Bring your gifts into our locally owned location and leave the packing and shipping to us.

Southwest Corner of Oak Park Ave 805 LAKE STREET OAK PARK, IL 60301 708-358-1445 store3385@theupsstore.com theupsstore.com/3385

Hours: Mon - Fri Sat Sun

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B12 December 6, 2023

Holiday Spectacular presented by

Special Advertising Section

Eat, Drink & Be Merry this holiday season “Oh, My God!”

Our $25 holiday bonus is back For every $100 you purchase in Maya gift cards, you receive a FREE $25 bonus gift card!

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Ring in the New Year with a special NYE menu and live music!

144 s oak park ave | oak park 708.358.9800 www.mayadelsol.com scan for gift cards and reservations

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H O L D AY E V E N T S

Holiday Family Fun With

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Rockin’ Under The Mistletoe

Miss Jamie

With JP & Jenny & the Flames

Saturday, December 9, 10:15 a.m., FitzGerald's This Western-themed performer plays a special holiday show for the kids. $25/family, 6615 Roosevelt Road, Berwyn.

Friday, December 8, 8 p.m., Outta Space Christmas carols, country & western style. $10, 6840 32nd Street, Berwyn.

Symphony of Oak Park & River Forest: Holiday Concert Sunday, December 10, 4 p.m., Concordia University Chapel The orchestra will perform the famed “Nutcracker Suite.” $30-35, students through college admitted free of charge. 7400 Augusta Street, River Forest.

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Happy Holidays from our family to yours!

KINGSVIEWPARTNERS

WEALTH MANAGEMENT

Joel W. Foster

Partner | Wealth Manager

O: + 630.442.1790 F: + 630.425.4126 jfoster@kingsview.com www.kingsview.com

33 N. LaSalle St., Suite 2510 | Chicago, IL 60602

December 6, 2023

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Holiday Spectacular presented by

Special Advertising Section

Oak Park

148 N. Oak Park Ave | 708-660-9800 www.CityHomeVacuum.com

Special Advertising Section

H O L D AY E V E N T S

Holiday Spectacular presented by C O N T I N U E D

F R O M

P A G E

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Holiday Catering Let us cater your business or family gathering!

BAKED CLAMS $21.00 DOZEN RISOTTO BITES $1.50 EACH, MIN 25 ARTICHOKE CASSEROLE $12.00 PER LB GRILLED OCTOPUS $26.00 PER LB STUFFED ARTICHOKE $10.00 EACH FRIED CALAMARI $26.00 PER LB FOCACC I A B R E10-1,000 A D $ 3 2 . 0 0 people!

We can cater from FRIED SMELT $24.00 LB FRIED JUMBO BUTTERFLIED SHRIMP (10) $29.00 PER LB COLD CALAMARI SALAD $26.00 LB HOUSE FAVORITE *FAMOUS FISH SALAD* A HOLIDAY CLASSSIC! (INCLUDES FRESH SHRIMP, CALAMARI, OCTOPUS, CRAB) $28.00 PER LB

PHOTO BY STEVE SCHEURING

Prisms Of Winter

Holiday Makers Market

Thursday, December 7-Friday, December 8, 7 p.m., Oak Park-River Forest High School The music students at OPRF present a special holiday concert led by Anthony Svedja, Meredith McGuire, Patrick Pearson and Brendon Culloton. $10, 201 North

Saturday, December 9, 11 a.m.-4 p.m., Robert’s Westside Special pop-up shop where you can purchase handmade products from local craftspeople. 7321 Madison Street, Oak Park.

Holidays Acapella Sunday, December 10, 3 p.m., Pilgrim Congregational Church Chicago Acapella performs classic holiday standards.

460 Lake Street, Oak Park.

Our inside catering menu!

BOWTIE PASTA NAPOLEON (ROASTED RED PEPPERS, BLACK OLIVES, FONTINELLA CHEESE, ARTICHOKE HEARTS & SPINACH IN OUR AGLIO SAUCE) HALF PAN $65.00 FULL PAN $100.00 BAKED COD H A L Fthe PAN $ 6 0 . 0 0 easy F U and L L P Aconvenient.

N $95.00 Make holidays G R I L L E D S A L M O N Warm up our food for your party!

HALF PAN $70.00 FULL PAN $135.00 SLICED SPIRAL HAM HALF PAN $50.00 FULL PAN $85.00 NECKBONES HALF PAN $40.00 FULL PAN $65.00 MEATBALLS HALF PAN $45.00 FULL PAN $75.00

Jim and Pete’s Christmas specialties menu!

Rock & Roll Holiday Revue Friday, December 8, 7:30-10:30 p.m., Madison Street Theater Two oldies bands play classic rock & roll holiday oldies from Christmases past. Captain Rat & the Blind Rivets showcase the fifties and sixties, while Ginger plays 70s and 80s arena rock. $20, 1010 Madison Street, Oak Park.

Scoville Avenue, Oak Park.

CO N T I N U E D

SEAFOOD PLATTER HALF PAN $80.00 LASAGNA HALF PAN $55.00 FULL PAN $100.00 EGGPLANT PARMIGIANA Let us host your gathering in our HALF PAN $50.00 FULL PAN $90.00 LINGU I N I W / C A L Arestaurant!

MARI newly renovated HALF PAN $70.00 FULL PAN $115.00 LINGINI W/ WHITE CLAM HALF PAN $65.00 FULL PAN $100.00 PASTA PESCE HALF PAN $95.00 FULL PAN $150.00 HOMEMADE RIGATONI VODKA HALF PAN $60.00 FULL PAN $95.00

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* A L LW I T ENorth M S A V A IAve, L A B L E Elmwood H O T O R P R E CPark, O O K E DILT O60707 BE 7806 WARMED/SERVED THE FOLLOWING DAY* (708) 453-5204 • jimandpetes.com

B16 December 6, 2023

Holiday Spectacular presented by

Ho, Ho, Ho!

Flowers, gifts and more!

Garland Flowers 137 S. Oak Park Ave., Oak Park

708-848-2777 or 1-877-244-3181

www.garlandflowers.net Worldwide Delivery - Major Credit Cards Accepted

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Olive & Well Gifts for the foodies in your life Your source for oils, balsamics and other foodie gifts.

133 N Oak Park Ave, Oak Park Monday-Saturday 11:00 - 5:00; Sunday 12:30 - 4:00

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H O L D AY E V E N T S

C O N T I N U E D

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December 6, 2023

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Hanukkah Acapella Thursday, December 7, 7:30 p.m., Temple Har Zion Chicago Acapella presents a special Hanukkah concert. $38-$48, 1040 North Harlem Avenue, Oak Park.

Happy holidays, neighbors.

Sing We Joyous 2023 Saturday, December 9, 7:30 p.m.; Sunday, Dec.10, 4 p.m., First United Church Of Oak Park Christmas vocals galore, featuring the sounds of the Oriana Singers, City Voices, the Pro Musica Youth Chorus and the Sing We Joyous Orchestra. $30, 848 Lake Street, Oak Park.

Divine 9 Holiday Bazaar Saturday, December 9, 4-8 p.m., M.E. Marketplace Panel discussion about the importance of sisterhood, brotherhood and service. 7451 Madison Street, Oak Park.

Juf Young Families Chanukah Sunday, December 10, 1:30 p.m., Candycopia Celebrate this holiday with candle lighting, singing and candy. 717 Lake Street, Oak Park.

Colin Fane, Agent

Angel’s Holiday Drag Brunch Saturday, December 9, 1-4 p.m., Scratch Public House Just like the title says. 7505 Madison Street, Oak Park.

212 S Marion Street Fl G Oak Park, IL 60302 Bus: 708-383-3163 www.colinfane.com Monday & Friday 9am-5pm Tues/Wed/ Thurs 9am-7pm Saturday 9am-12pm

I wish all my neighbors a safe and happy holiday season and the very best in the New Year. It’s a true joy to be part of such a wonderful community.

Like a good neighbor, State Farm is there.®®

Caroling In The Arts District Saturday, December 9, 2-4 p.m., Actors Garden In collaboration with Kim Frost Vocal Studios, you can go caroling around Oak Park’s Arts District. One hour will be spent learning the songs, while the next hour will be spent serenading the streets and passersby.

Recommended for ages 8-15 years. 909 S. Lombard Avenue, Oak Park.

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All concerts held on Sunday afternoons at 4 pm Four Concert subscription (12/10/2023, 2/18/2024, 4/7/2024, 6/2/2024) is $115.

Go to SymphonyOPRF.org to order tickets.

708 218 2648 • thesymphonyoprf@gmail.com

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Our warmest wishes this holiday season!

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CZS/BROOKFIELD ZOO

Holiday magic at the zoo Dec. 7-10, 14-17, 21-23, 26-31 Brookfield Zoo, times vary Chicagoland’s longest-running lights festival is back, featuring more than 2 million twinkling LED lights! There’s entertainment galore!

• Holiday Magic Photo Ops: Giant Animals, Tunnel Light Show, Walkthrough Displays • Dance Party at Polar Plaza • Letters to Santa and Animals Entertainment from 5-8 p.m.

• North Pole at The Pavilions featuring: - Those Funny Little People (performance at 6 p.m. followed by meet & greet) - Juggling Elves - Pictures with Santa (through December 23) • Roaming Carolers • Ice Carving at the Nature Stage Attractions: • Elf Power Virtual Reality Experiences* (open weather permitting) Reservations may be required. Visit the website for more information.

8400 31st St. Brookfield

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December 6, 2023

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902 S Ridgeland Ave, Oak Park Friday, Dec 16 10am-2pm

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Award winning Middle Eastern restaurant voted best in west suburbs 6 years in a row. Falafel, hummus, tabouleh, shawerma, kebabs

Jerusalem Cafe • 1030 Lake St. • Oak Park • 708-848-7734

Give the gift of Health!

DISCOUNTED YOGA CLASS PACKAGES AT YOGASIX OAK PARK GIFT OF HEALTH UNLIMITED CLASS PACKAGE DEALS STARTING AT $59 CHOOSE 1 WEEK FOR $59, 1 MONTH FOR $99, OR 3 MONTHS FOR $239

CONTACT THE STUDIO TO PURCHASE 708-328-3780 1006 LAKE STREET, OAK PARK IL 60301

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Encourage Someone During the Holidays!

PURCHASE: "Fully Persuaded Faith" This book was written to inspire anyone facing life's challenges.

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Michael D. Costello, Artistic Director

Concerts at Grace Lutheran Church 7300 Division Street, River Forest

Chicago Tickets at www.ChicagoChoralArtists.org, 773.658.9799 or at the door.

Choral $45 Adult, $35 Senior, $20 Student with ID Artists Free for children 12 and under with paying adult

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December 6, 2023

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It’s such a delightful day to announce our Poke Burrito expansion space just right next to our current location at 1025 Lake St, Oak Park, IL!

1025 Lake Street, Oak Park, IL 60301 | (708) 573-3668 | pokeburritochicago.com

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Every child has a gift to be shared • Pre-K through 12th Grade. Private/ Independent school since 1994. Listed by MENSA as a recommended program for gifted students.

• Private Music Lessons • Foreign Language Lessons • Academic Tutoring

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B26 December 6, 2023

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December 6, 2023

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BUY MUSIC. SHOP LOCAL. (IT MATTERS!)

There is no better gift than the gift of music and Val's halla Records has you covered.

We carry new and vintage turntables and speakers as well as a world-class selection of New and Used vinyl. Not sure what to get? Then a Val's halla Records gift card is the perfect choice. Make someone's holiday special while supporting an iconic Oak Park institution.

239 Harrison St, Oak Park, IL 60304 • valshallarecords.com • (708) 524-1004

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sh for a TOUCHLESS car wa u yo en wh r ye dr with air 4. of buy a pack Sale ends 1/3/24

Spotless Carwash 7802 Madison St. & 7343 Roosevelt in Forest Park 708-771-2945 • We Accept All Major Credit Cards

You can purchase tokens from an attendant weekdays from Noon to 5pm or Sat. & Sun. 9am-4pm.

OR YOU CAN BUY THEM ONLINE AT:

spotlessautowash.com

INCLUDES WINE TASTINGS, WINE GLASS, WINE TOTE, BOXED WATER, SMALL BITES, DISCOUNTS AT SHOP & RESTAURANTS & BOTTLE OF WINE FROM ANFORA WINE MERCHANTS

SAT, DEC. 16 • 3-7PM 12 Tasting Locations • Local Artists • Holiday Shopping

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December 6, 2023

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From the Forest Insurance family to yours, best wishes for a

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SHOP LOCAL THIS HOLIDAY SEASON Frank Lloyd Wright’s Home and Studio Museum Shop Our Museum Shop is open daily from 9:30 am to 5 pm at 951 Chicago Avenue. Find new and popular holiday gifts for everyone on your list.

flwright.org 312.994.4000

B30 December 6, 2023

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Hours: Mon-Sat 10am-5pm, Sun 12pm-4pm

this holiday season

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Wonder Works Children's Museum 6445 West North Avenue Oak Park, IL 60302 (708) 383-4815

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December 6, 2023

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GET READY FOR THE HOLIDAYS! TONY’S SHOE CLINIC

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Celebrate the holidays with family, friends & co-workers at Trattoria 225.

Don’t forget about our other great weekday specials!

Happy Holidays!

George & John

145 S. Oak Park Ave., Oak Park, IL 60302 Ph: 708.848.4949 • Cell: 847.708.1727

We have some great dates available for holiday parties for groups of all sizes up to 150 people Contact Bill Quick at BillQ@trattoria225.com

Local News, straight to your inbox!

Subscribe to our newsletters today!

Tuesday & Thursday:

Two Pizzas for $22 Wednesday: Senior (60+) Discount Night

10% off dinner

Holiday Gift Certificates now available for those hard to buy for people in your life.

225 harrison oak park, il 60304 708.358.8555 • www.trattoria225.com

B32 December 6, 2023

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Surprise that best friend with a truly special gift... a subscription to your local and reliable news source!

Call Jill at (708) 613-3340

or visit OakPark.com/subscribe or ForestParkReview.com/subscribe

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Holiday Spectacular presented by

The Joyf Joyful Giving 2023 Catalo atalog g A House In Austin A House In Austin stands as a dual nurturing hub on Chicago’s west side, empowering parents and children simultaneously, igniting transformation within the community.

Children gather here to explore art, music, play, and learning, laying the foundation for their future. Simultaneously, parents find a supportive space for connection, and personal and parental development. Through our home visiting program, essentials like diapers, clothing, transportation, and emergency aid, ensure families’ basic needs are met.

With partnerships with Early Intervention and Children’s Research Triangle, therapy and mental health support are accessible, completing the circle of care. AHIA radiates warmth, enveloping families in an environment where they can truly thrive, side by side.

For more information call/ text 773.896.3582 or to support our mission please visit www.ahouseinaustin. org

Animal Care League Animal Care League offers a safe haven for pets in need. Rooted in the community since 1973, Animal Care League takes a proactive approach to animal care and adoption as well as preventative measures to help reduce the number of homeless animals in our communities.

With over 1,300 pets coming to our doors each year, Animal Care League counts on supporters to ensure that we can provide what is needed from routine vaccinations to life saving surgery.

Make a difference in the life of a homeless animal by visiting animalcareleague.org where you can sign up to volunteer, make a donation, view our adoptable pets, and learn about upcoming events.

December 6, 2023

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Everything you need for a better world: • More Art • More Compassion

• More Education • More Equity

• More Food • More Health

• More Housing • More Peace

Browse, read, share with your children. Give Locally – Give Joyfully!

Arts Alliance Forest Park Creativity is for everyone and Arts Alliance Forest Park (formerly Forest Park Arts Alliance) is The Catalyst for Creativity.

Programs include the well-attended and known Stoop Sessions, Teller’s Night, Garage Galleries, Makers’ Market and Fiber Flash.

Members enjoy a variety of benefits including discounts to events, advanced notice to opportunities to showcase your talent, all while collaborating with other local organizations and businesses including Forest Park Theatre, the Park District and Historical Society.

You were born creative.

Join the only Forest Park arts organization that assembles like-minded art enthusiasts for the love, fun and beauty of art.

Beyond Hunger For 45 years Beyond Hunger has been harnessing the power of communities to create a hunger-free future. Through our food pantry, home delivery program, nutrition education classes, and social services, we provide hunger relief that truly goes beyond basic nourishment. We provide our clients with the tools they need to ensure that no one is left behind in the battle against hunger. We know that this work would not be possible without our community. Whether you volunteer, advocate for those in need, or donate, you are essential in moving our mission forward. With your support, we believe hunger is solvable.

Learn more about how you can get involved in the fight to end hunger by visiting gobeyondhunger. org or donating using this QR Code.

Austin Coming Together Austin Coming Together (ACT)’s mission is to increase the collective impact of our 50+ member organizations on improving education and economic development outcomes for Chicago’s Austin community. Since 2010, we’ve been connecting residents to services, attracting investments for the community, and building capacity for policy change.

When the pandemic made long-standing inequities even worse, we started addressing growing needs through efforts like the Austin Eats Initiative, a 20+ group focused on strengthening the community’s food access infrastructure.

Learn how Austin is leading efforts to move forward together, and how you can support, at AustinComingTogether.org/AustinCares

BUILD Since 1969, we have embedded mentors in schools and across neighborhoods to connect with youth who need support.

Wrapping young people in the opportunities and care they deserve, we help them build hope, resilience, and a path to a promising future. We engage youth at every stage, with specialized teams dedicated to street violence interventions, gang detachments, creative after-school programming, academic school, college support, mental health care, community violence crisis response, and enrichment activities ranging from art and music to sports, podcasting, engineering, and gardening. Potential doesn’t discriminate, neither should opportunity.

Join us in BUILDing a better future: www. buildchicago.org

The Collaboration for Early Childhood Early care and education is the workforce behind the workforce. It makes everything else possible, and it allows children to reach their full potential from day one. We are a community-driven organization that cultivates the development of the whole child, birth to age five, by engaging families, local organizations, early childhood educators, caregivers, and health providers to create equitable, nurturing, and interconnected systems of support. Donate today to ensure that our community continues to be a place where families and their babies have the care, relationships, and resources needed to thrive!

The biggest change starts with the smallest people.

Invest in early childhood.

Learn more and donate at www.collab4kids.org.

Concordia University Chicago Founded in 1864, Concordia University Chicago has equipped students to serve and lead with integrity and compassion. Concordia-Chicago is a Christ-centered Lutheran university where truth, freedom, and vocation form students for lives of influence and service for the common good. Historically a college for teachers, it now offers more than 100 areas of study through traditional, blended or online classes. Students can earn a bachelor’s, master’s or doctoral degrees through one of four colleges: the College of Business, the College of Education, the College of Health, Science & Technology, and the College of Theology, Arts & Humanities.

To learn more, please visit CUChicago.edu or CUChicago.edu/GiveNow to support our students.

B34 December 6, 2023 The Day Nursery The Oak Park & River Forest Day Nursery, located at 1139 Randolph Street in Oak Park, educates young children ages 2 ½ to age 6, and offers working families a safe and nurturing environment which fosters an academic, social emotional, and physical development.

The Day Nursery children who transitioned to kindergarten this fall, 100% met the benchmarks for social-emotional and 91% met the benchmarks for mathematics and literacy.

Please consider a tax-deductible gift to help us meet a $50,000 challenge grant that will provide equitable access to education for all children.

Visit www.daynursery.org to donate today.

Thank you.

Deborah’s Place Deborah’s Place has opened doors of opportunity for women experiencing homelessness in Chicago since 1985. Supportive housing offers women the key to healing and moving on from the experience of homelessness.

With more than 200 units of housing and over 600 women served yearly, Deborah’s Place is the largest provider of permanent supportive housing in Chicago exclusively for unaccompanied women. With homelessness at crisis levels across our community, Deborah’s Place is there to address the unique and underserved needs of women experiencing homelessness. Donor support makes it possible for women to maintain their housing and achieve their goals.

To learn more, volunteer, or donate, visit deborahsplace.org, email info@ deborahsplace.org or call 773.722.5080

Ernest Hemingway Foundation of Oak Park The Ernest Hemingway Foundation of Oak Park is a non-profit 501(c)(3) literary arts and educational foundation dedicated to thoughtful reading and writing. The foundation offers a wide variety of programming, all open to the public, to nurture and encourage creative expression for students and for people of all ages. Through tours and exhibits at Ernest Hemingway’s birthplace museum, the foundation fosters an understanding of his life and work, his Oak Park origins and his impact on world literature.

Holiday Spectacular presented by Your gift supports creative outlets for people of all ages through professional teacher development, local author and performing artist programs, inter-generational engagement, a writer-in-residence program, as well as student writing workshops, mentorships, and scholarships.

For more information about us or to donate online go to hemingwaybirthplace.com or mail us at: Ernest Hemingway Foundation of Oak Park, P.O. Box 2222, Oak Park, IL 60303-2222.

Forest Park Theatre Forest Park Theatre (FPT) delivers language-centered, meta-theatrical, multi-disciplinary, lingual, and cultural performances that create 21st century classics that speak to theatre’s unique power.

FPT believes theatre should be accessible to everyone. It should feature diverse casts.

Theatre should tell stories that cannot be told any other way, and those stories should be about today’s world.

FPT brings theatre arts to Forest Park and neighboring communities through productions, readings and educational programs.

FPT is a non-profit through affiliation with Arts Alliance Forest Park, and a member of the Forest Park Chamber of Commerce.

For sponsorship and volunteer opportunities, email forestparktheatre1@ gmail.com

Frank Lloyd Wright Trust The Trust is proud to steward Wright’s Home and Studio, an Oak Park treasure and longtime source of community pride and inspiration. We are continually grateful for the ongoing support of our neighbors. It is only through the generosity of donors, members and volunteers who care that we can preserve Wright’s original sites for future generations, sharing his design legacy with visitors from around the world. The Trust will celebrate its 50 th anniversary in 2024 and looks forward to engaging, educating, and inspiring for years to come.

Learn more or donate at flwright.org. 951 Chicago Ave, Oak Park, IL 60302

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Friends of the Oak Park Conservatory Built in 1929, the Oak Park Conservatory is a Historic Property of the Park District of Oak Park. Free to the public with 50,000 visitors annually, the Conservatory is now listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The Conservatory offers three indoor showrooms featuring more than 3,000 plants and two outdoor gardens including a play area for toddlers. The Friends of the Oak Park Conservatory offers a wide range of programs focused on enriching the visitor experience at the Conservatory. From volunteering to educational and recreational opportunities, tours and classes, there is something for everyone to enjoy year-round.

To learn more or to join, visit fopcon.org.

Growing Community Media

Growing Community Media connects residents through reader-supported journalism--our stories are based in facts, rooted deeply in our neighborhoods and reflective of voices not always heard. Through the Austin Weekly News, Wednesday Journal of Oak Park and River Forest, Forest Park Review, and Riverside-Brookfield Landmark, GCM provides a vital civic service worthy of public support.

Our journalists tell compelling stories that strengthen the fabric of our democracy by holding local governments and institutions to account. GCM’s non-profit news sources grow political engagement, create shared culture, and connect community members to businesses and local events. It’s about more than news.

Donate for news that matters to you at growingcommunitymedia. org/donate

Hephzibah Children’s Association Founded in 1897, Hephzibah Children’s Association is Oak Park’s oldest social service agency. Serving children and families for over 125 years, Hephzibah’s mission of helping children thrive and families flourish is muti-faceted. We offer a residential treatment program for severely

abused, neglected, and traumatized children and those in need of behavioral intervention ages 3-11. In addition, Hepzibah offers foster care services, comprehensive services for children and families in crisis, positive parenting services and an abuse & neglect prevention program. Hephzibah also provides affordable after-school care and summer camp for Oak Park families of all income levels.

To make a donation, visit: hephzibahhome.org/donate-now/

Housing Forward

homelessness.

Housing Forward is passionately focused on one vision – ending

Housing Forward is a recognized leader in suburban Cook County offering a coordinated response for people experiencing a housing crisis to quickly resolve their situation. We believe in bold, comprehensive approaches to prevent homelessness whenever possible, respond to people in housing crises, and create stability through permanent housing for the most vulnerable members of our community. Each year we assist more than 2,000 individuals and families with comprehensive, wrap-around support from the onset of a financial or housing crisis to its resolution.

To learn more, donate, or to get involved, visit housingforward.org, email development@ housingforward.org, or call 708.338.1724

The Joyf Joyful Giving 2023 Catalo atalog g

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KIDS TOO

Learning Edge Tutoring

KIDS TOO is a non profit that equips parents with methods to protect K-12 youth from overlooked dangers in schools. The organization addresses tough challenges like predatory adults, child on child abuse and online safety with a goal to provide all kids with a trauma-free school experience. KIDS TOO delivers on the mission by supporting policy and educating parents with its marquee program, the PAXA Pointers Curriculum.

We invite you to bring KIDS TOO one step closer to our child protection goals by donating online at www.kidstoo.org/ donate.

For over 30 years, Learning Edge Tutoring (formerly Cluster Tutoring Program) has been a part of the Oak Park and Austin communities. Our mission is to strive for more equity in education by providing Chicago area students who live in underserved communities free one-to-one tutoring and academic enrichment opportunities enhanced by caring, mentoring relationships.

We help our students improve their foundational reading and math skills, provide homework help, and foster enduring relationships. Your support provides 30 weeks of school year tutoring to students in Kindergarten through 12th grades.

To donate or volunteer, please visit our website https://learningedgetutoring.org/.

L’arche Chicago Life is better together…

Quality care for adults with intellectual & developmental disabilities extends beyond the basics of supporting someone with their basic living and medical needs. It’s about creating opportunities to say, “I’m living my best life” and mean it! L’Arche Chicago is committed to the highest quality of care for our core members (adults with disabilities), and our intentional community makes it possible for us to experience life to the fullest, together. Mutual relationships transform lives at all three of our homes, located in Forest Park and the Austin neighborhood of Chicago. Our fourth home, located in Oak Park, will open in the summer of 2024 when we will welcome four new core members.

You make our community stronger – Join us by making a gift today! www.larchechicago.org 708-660-1600 hello@larchechicago.org

Life is Work Elevate your impact Life is Work Resources Center, a dynamic black trans-led social services and advocacy organization.

We are dedicated to empowering transgender, non-binary people through direct support, relentless activism, and unyielding advocacy.

Our mission is rooted in equality, inclusion, and empowerment. With a deep commitment to the trans community, we offer vital resources, mentorship, and a strong voice for change. Together, we amplify the voices that need to be heard, ensuring that no one is left behind. Join us on our mission to create a world where everyone can thrive, regardless of their gender identity or racial background. Life is Work – together, we rise.

Learn more at lifeiswork.org.

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Maywood Fine Arts Equity in the arts is the driving force behind Maywood Fine Arts’ programs and people. Access to affordable, high-quality instruction in dance, music, visual arts, drama, tumbling, karate and fitness cannot be taken for granted among families MFA serves from nearby, under-resourced communities such as Maywood, Bellwood, and Chicago’s Austin neighborhood. MFA, whose facilities anchor downtown Maywood, serves over 950 students each week between the ages of 4 and 18 with the majority being young people of color. Families count on MFA’s safe, nurturing out-of-school time environment where children learn artistic and social skills and expand their world view.

To donate, visit maywoodfinearts.org or send checks payable to Maywood Fine Arts, 25 N 5th Ave, Maywood, IL 60153.

Maywood Youth Mentoring Program Organized in 1993 as a 501c3, the Maywood Youth Mentoring Program has served hundreds of middle to high-school youth providing a variety of programs, workshops, field trips, and experiences designed to increase academic potential and instill cultural pride.

Since 2008, the program has hosted free monthly youth breakfasts with topics ranging from anger management and conflict resolution, etiquette, police/community interactions, sexual health, drug and alcohol avoidance, and academic excellence. Youths practice critical thinking skills to encourage positive life choices. Volunteer mentors interact with youths, providing positive role models for college and career choices. Funds are needed to continuously provide free services and incentives for participation.

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New Moms For 40 years, New Moms has invested in the beauty and power of being a mother.

For moms 24 years or younger, it starts by building confidence in what’s possible. Our comprehensive approach provides housing, paid job training, college success, and family support for those impacted by systemic and structural barriers. Designed to cultivate each person’s inherent abilities, we combine behavioral research, proven methodology, and real-world experience to give young families a path to lasting success and generational change.

Join us in this essential work! Visit newmoms.org/season

The Nineteenth Century Charitable Association The Nineteenth Century Charitable Association strengthens our community through learning, giving, and sharing our landmark building through space grants to local non-profits, who account for 80% of its usage. We provide community outreach, scholarships, and public programming in five areas: music, art, literature, science, and social sciences. The Nineteenth Century is the owner of 178 Forest Avenue, commonly referred to as the Nineteenth Century Club. Our charitable and cultural activities are supported by our members, volunteers, donors, and by the events held at the building. Programs are open to all and we welcome all ages to join. Our Monday programs are now being live-streamed as well as available a week later on our website for all to enjoy.

If you would like information about volunteering, joining or donating, please call us at 708-386-2729 email to info@ nineteenthcentury.org. You can also make donations at nineteenthcentury.org.

To volunteer, or to donate, visit us at maywoodyouthmentoring.org, or contact Barbara Cole, founder/CEO, at barbaracole@maywoodyouthmentoring. org or 708-344-3577.

Learn more. Give more.

You can also visit OakPark.com and go to our Season of Giving page.

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Holiday Spectacular presented by

Investing in equity and Oak Park’s future Through the years, generous Oak Parkers have given to the Oak Park Public Library. These tax-deductible donations help library staff members pursue “the icing on

Since 2003, the OPRFHS Alumni Association has helped current OPRFHS students experience once in a lifetime lu mn ti cultural and academic i A ss o cia enrichment programs through its annual Bobbie L. Raymond Student Enrichment Grants. These grants allow students to explore and expand their interests and knowledge while preparing them for future education and career opportunities. In 2023, we provided $26,600 on behalf of 18 students for a variety of domestic and study abroad programs.

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You may donate at: oprhc.org/donate. To learn more, please call 708-848-7150, or email: info@oprhc.org.

Visit oprfcf.org to learn more about our services for donors, scholars, nonprofits, and the community at large.

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For more information about membership, exhibitions, classes, workshops, outreach, or to donate to these efforts, please contact Brad Nugent, Executive Director, at 708-386-9853 or email inquiries to oakparkartleague@gmail.com.

Oak Park Regional Housing Center has celebrated 51 years with the mission to achieve vibrant communities while promoting intentional and stable residential integration throughout Oak Park and the surrounding communities. OPRHC is the only non- profit agency in Oak Park promoting intentional integrative housing stability options. Consider giving a tax-deductible year end donation so that we may reach our goal to raise $25,000 by December 31, 2023! These funds will help us continue to help integrate and invigorate the Greater Westside communities for up to 100 individuals in the first quarter of 2023!

The mission of the Oak Park-River Forest Community Foundation is to unite community members and mobilize resources to advance a racially just society and equitable outcomes for residents of Oak Park, River Forest and surrounding communities.

We envision a racially just and equitable society as the full inclusion of all people into a society in which everyone can participate, thrive and prosper. In an equitable society, everyone, regardless of circumstance of birth or upbringing, is treated justly and fairly by its institutions and systems.

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The Oak Park Art League (OPAL) is one of the longest running non-profit arts organizations in Illinois. Since 1921, OPAL has brought arts education, appreciation, exhibitions, and artistic inquiry to the surrounding community. OPAL is committed to meaningful outreach to Oak Park and the surrounding communities through partnerships, on-site arts programming, and collaborations. The Oak Park Art League is located at 720 Chicago Ave., Oak Park, IL 60302 and online at oakparkartleague.org.

Oak Park Regional Housing Center

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Oak Park Art League

To learn more about us and to donate, please visit oakparkfestival.com.

To learn more about giving to the library, visit oppl.org/donate or contact the library’s Accounting and Finance Manager Linda Barnett at lindab@oppl.org.

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To learn more or to donate to the scholarship fund, visit opalga.org/donate.

Best known for our outdoor productions of Shakespeare performed each summer under a canopy of stars in the idyllic Austin Gardens, Oak Park Festival Theatre has been bringing live professional theatre to the western suburbs since 1975. Arts and culture are an essential feature of a thriving community and OPFT has been bringing the community together for nearly fifty years by performing timeless plays in distinctive spaces and creating empowering educational programming in order to foster dialogue, strengthen relationships, and explore the depth of human experience.

the cake” — innovative new programs and unique library initiatives made available to everyone.

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The OPALGA+ Student Scholarship Fund provides financial support for the post-high school education of local students who have demonstrated service and advocacy to the LGBTQIA+ community. Young LGBTQIA+ people face unique challenges in high school and college; students with LGBTQIA+ parents have distinct experiences shaped by their families. The scholarship program depends on the year-round generosity of OPALGA+ members and community support. Since 2014, OPALGA+ has awarded over $170,000 in scholarships and plans to award eight $5,000 awards in 2024.

Oak Park Festival Theatre

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Oak Park Area Lesbian & Gay Association Plus (OPALGA+)

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OPRFHS Scholarship Foundation Nurturing Knowledge: A Philanthropic Endeavor by the OPRFHS Scholarship Foundation Unlock futures with a legacy of generosity!

In 2023, 101 OPRFHS seniors soared with $275,650 in scholarships.

Since 1924, the Foundation has championed dreams, awarding countless scholarships to deserving graduates. Your support empowers academic achievement, leadership, sportsmanship, artistic accomplishment, community service, and more. Join us in shaping destinies—give to the Oak Park and River Forest High School Scholarship Foundation.

Every contribution fuels potential and bridges dreams with reality.

Visit scholarships4oprfhs.org to make a lasting impact on deserving students.

Let’s cultivate legacies of education and opportunity together.

Oak Park River Forest History Museum The Historical Society of Oak Park and River Forest is the community’s storyteller, making history relevant in tangible ways that positively impact today’s residents including walking tours, school field trips, traveling exhibits, and house research.

We operate Oak Park River Forest Museum in an 1898 Oak Park Landmark at Lake and Lombard next to Stevenson Park. We invested $1 million in private funds to create a welcoming space in a former firehouse.

Exhibits include our new “Ever-Changing, Yet the Same: OPRF High School at 150” and “Open House: The Legacy of Fair Housing.” We are not supported by tax dollars and a gift of any amount funds our 2024 activities, research center, and knowledgeable staff.

Learn more and donate at oprfmuseum.org or 708-848-6755.

Make a difference in the life of an OPRFHS student with a donation to the OPRFHS Alumni Association. DONATE at www.oprfhs.com/about/alumni/ support

Learn more. Give more.

You can also visit OakPark.com and go to our Season of Giving page.

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OPRF Infant Welfare Society and IWS Children’s Clinic Join us in nurturing the complete well-being of children and advancing health equity! At the OPRF Infant Welfare Society and IWS Children’s Clinic, we are committed to serving publicly insured/ uninsured children and addressing their holistic health needs. Our services encompass sick and well-child visits, dental care, behavioral health support, and various wrap-around programs. Annually, we extend our care to more than 3,400 children from various areas, including Oak Park, Chicago, Berwyn, Cicero, and beyond.

You can make a meaningful difference today by supporting the comprehensive health requirements of children in our community. A donation of $25 enables a mental health screening, $50 covers the cost of two vaccines, and $100 provides a preventive dental cleaning. Your contribution helps us ensure that every child receives the care they deserve. Act now and be a part of this vital mission!

Learn more and donate today at www.childrenscliniciws.org

One Earth Collective One Earth curates vibrant environmental programming that inspires action, facilitates learning, promotes justice, and fosters equity and inclusion to create resilient communities and a healthier planet. We focus our work in 3 areas - One Earth Film Festival, One Earth Youth Voices, and One Earth Local.

One Earth Film Fest’s 13th season will take place March 7-10, 2024. We’re excited to welcome Chicagoland audiences back live, in addition to our virtual screenings. Join us for captivating films, engaging discussion, impactful action opportunities and community-building. Memberships start at $35.

Holiday Spectacular presented by Opportunity Knocks Opportunity Knocks was founded in 2009 by families and embraced by a community that recognized significant opportunities to develop more substantial and responsive programs, support and partnerships where people with different abilities would be more present with interdependent connections. We strive to be co-creators of programs, enterprise, and partnerships that contribute to developing a community where people with different abilities are able to live, work, learn, grow and pursue a life of their design. As a 95% privately funded organization, we depend on the community’s generosity to advance our mission. Your support is appreciated.

Visit opportunityknocksnow.org to learn more.

Our Future Reads: Empowering Through Literature Dedicated to fostering curiosity, Our Future Reads provides access to literature for all across Chicagoland.

Founded on the belief that everyone deserves knowledge, the organization has donated over 9,000 books to those in need. Supported by our community, Our Future Reads combats literacy challenges, serving over 3,000 individuals. Join the mission, empower minds, and ensure a brighter future where books ignite sparks of inspiration.

Donate, volunteer, or partner today.

Contact: Info@OurFutureReads.com or (773) 969-9676. Your support can shape a future filled with informed, curious readers!

December 6, 2023

PING!

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River Forest Public Library

(Providing Instruments for the Next Generation) PING!, a 25-year-old, community nonprofit organization, provides band and orchestra instruments along with mentoring, workshops, and access to lessons, music camps, and trips to students in need in grades 4 through 12, bringing true equity to instrumental music in Oak Park and River Forest public schools. In our community’s high-quality school music programs, PING! students can be on par with peers, regardless of their financial situations, and feel like they belong. PING! is serving 150 young musicians this school year, at least 75% people of color, bringing diversity to instrumental music while providing access to all. Help support young musicians.

Donate: pingoprf.org/ donate. Instrument donations: info@pingoprf. org.

Progress Center for Independent Living Founded in 1988, Progress Center for Independent Living is a cross-disability organization governed and staffed by a majority of people with disabilities. Progress Center serves people with all types of disabilities in Suburban Cook County. We assist individuals in pursuit of their self-determined goals. Progress Center recognizes the innate rights, needs and diversity of the disabled, works toward their integration into community life, and serves as an agent of social change. Progress Center is dedicated to building a society in which people with disabilities exercise the same freedoms, rights, and civil liberties as everyone else.

In person and online, River Forest Public Library serves everyone from toddlers to seniors by connecting them with information, entertainment, and each other in a welcoming space.

RFPL Foundation works to ensure the vitality of the Library through advocacy, fundraising, and grants. Foundation grants have enabled the Library to repurpose mechanical room space to build a new multi-purpose meeting room and ADA compliant restroom, refresh the Children’s and Teen spaces, maintain the Memorial Garden for gatherings, offer community events like the Dooley Band concert and Summer Reading Kickoff, and more.

Please donate at rfplfoundation.org and help your Library continue to serve and connect our community for generations to come.

Sarah’s Inn Sarah’s Inn is a community-based organization whose mission is to improve the lives of those affected by domestic violence and to break the cycle of violence for future generations.

We offer services in three areas of program focus: Intervention services for families affected by domestic violence that includes Advocacy and Counseling; Prevention education for youth to give them the tools to develop healthy relationships; and Training and Education for professionals and community-based organizations to create a network of skilled ambassadors. Intervention services are confidential, bilingual (English/Spanish), and offered free of charge to survivors and their children.

Make a donation at sarahsinn.org/donate

Donate today and learn more at: progresscil.org/

Learn more and donate at oneearthfilmfest.org/give.

Learn more. Give more.

You can also visit OakPark.com and go to our Season of Giving page.

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Holiday Spectacular presented by

The Symphony of Oak Park & River Forest

Way Back Inn

The award-winning Symphony of Oak Park & River Forest and its esteemed conductor Jay Friedman, continues to bring extraordinary and accessible concerts to our community. Ticket sales provide less than half the funds needed for the Symphony’s performances. Your gift keeps the orchestra going strong and allows us to maintain affordable ticket prices, including free admission for all students through college. Please help us continue and strengthen our 91-year tradition of bringing beautiful and inspiring music to Oak Park, River Forest, Forest Park and neighboring communities.

Make your end-of-year tax-deductible donation at SymphonyOPRF.org, or: P.O. Box 3564, Oak Park, IL 60303-3564.

Thrive Counseling Center Thrive Counseling Center has provided mental health services to Oak Park and surrounding communities for over 120 years. We build healthy minds, families, and communities by empowering people to attain mental and emotional well-being, regardless of their ability to pay.

We envision a world where mental health is valued, proactively nurtured, and in reach of everyone.

• Individual therapy • Group therapy • Psychiatry and medication management

Since 1974, Way Back Inn has successfully provided long-term residential and outpatient treatment for substance and gambling use disorders. Our mission is to rebuild lives damaged by addiction in a personalized healing environment. This holiday season, we ask that you gift responsibly with the youth in your family. Children who have early exposure to gambling experiences, including lottery tickets, are more likely to develop a gambling problem later in life.

For more information or to make a donation to our program, go to: www. waybackinn.org or call us at 708-345-8422 ext. 22.

West Cook YMCA When you give to the West Cook YMCA, you impact our community today and tomorrow.

100% of your tax-deductible donation goes directly to providing scholarships to children, adults, and seniors- your friends and neighbors-transforming their lives through access to health screenings, chronic disease prevention programs, after-school programs, swim lessons, homeless prevention for residents, and Y memberships that can open the door to help each person become their best self.

To donate, visit westcookymca. org/120years or send your check to West Cook YMCA, 255 S. Marion St., Oak Park, IL 60302. (708-383-5200)

• 24/7 Crisis intervention • Case management • Suicide awareness and prevention training • Thrive Talks community education programs Open Monday-Thursday 9am-8pm, Friday 9am-5pm, and Saturday from 9am-2pm. To learn more or donate, please visit thrivecc. org or call 708-383-7500.

West Suburban Special Recreation Association West Suburban Special Recreation Association (WSSRA) provides recreational programming for individuals with disabilities who reside in Oak Park, River Forest and nine other surrounding communities. Donations to WSSRA help provide financial assistance to those participating in our year-round programs and summer day camp.

To make a donation please visit wssra.net.

Wonder Works

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Youth Crossroads Youth Crossroads supports youth and their families, guiding them through life’s challenges, and inspiring them to discover new opportunities for personal development, healthy relationships, and positive community involvement. We are the only organization in our community offering counseling services and youth development programs free of charge and in English and Spanish. We offer in-school counseling, community counseling, crisis intervention, youth leadership training, after-school enrichment, workforce development, and violence prevention programs.

For 20 years, children have learned through PLAY in the enriching environment of Wonder Works Children’s Museum on North Avenue. Each of our 8 permanent exhibits is designed to facilitate playful learning in the areas of science, math, pre-literacy, and the arts for children from birth to 8. Your donations support sensory friendly play sessions, discounted admission for families in financial need, special events, and exhibit improvements. Please join us in our mission to fuel curiosity and creativity through fun and playful learning in safe spaces.

Your donation makes it possible for youth to get the guidance, support, and inspiration they need to achieve success at school, at home, and in life. Visit youthcrossroads.org for details.

Visit wonder-works.org/give/ to support the power of play with a donation.

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Learn more. Give more.

You can also visit OakPark.com and go to our Season of Giving page.

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Holiday Spectacular presented by

December 6, 2023

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Hometown WE’RE BY YOUR SIDE When it’s more than a home, you need a team with more to offer.

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1114 Columbian Ave Oak Park | $899,000

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605 Home Ave Oak Park | $575,000

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913 Wenonah Ave Oak Park | $530,000 Steve Scheuring

506 Forest Ave Oak Park | $525,000 Ann Keeney

Elmwood Park | $480,000

7815 W Westwood Dr

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255 South Blvd #4 Oak Park | $464,900 Patricia McGowan

1140 Highland Ave Oak Park | $459,000 Ann Keeney

175 W Burlington St Riverside | $439,000 Edwin Wald

3N330 N Howard Ave Elmhurst | $439,000 Liz Eder

513 Home Ave Oak Park | $399,900 Lindsey Collier

3813 Maple Ave Berwyn | $395,000 The Dita Group

631 N Laramie Ave Chicago | $370,000 Steve Green

154 N Laporte Ave Chicago | $365,000 Curtis Johnson

5428 W Jackson Blvd Chicago | $355,000 Porchia Cooper

1707 N Lorel Ave Chicago | $300,000 Curtis Johnson

420 Home Ave 204N Oak Park | $200,000 Anne Schaeffer

2143 N Harlem Ave 318 Chicago | $179,900 Heidi Rogers

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

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Holiday Spectacular presented by

Special Advertising Section

Committed to Oak Park and River Forest.

Left to right: Denise Warren, Oak Park Branch Manager; Susie Goldschmidt, Oak Park River Forest Market President; Michael Starrick, River Forest Branch Manager

Whether you’re seeing a movie at the Lake Theatre or strolling through Austin Gardens, we think you should be able to get all of your banking done in your neighborhood… with people who love the area as much as you do. Byline is privileged to be a part of the Oak Park and River Forest community, and we are proud to have contributed more than $60,000 in sponsorships and support in 2023 to local nonprofits like Beyond Hunger, the Oak Park Cycle Club, and the Women’s Global Education Project.

To learn more about our commitment to Oak Park and River Forest, visit bylinebank.com/oprf

©2023 Byline Bank. Member FDIC.