Forest Park Review 120722

Altenheim stakeholders present vision for property

A call for tax-generating uses to increase public safety funding

By IGOR STUDENKOV Staff Reporter

The latest meeting of the Forest Park Altenheim Committee saw three groups of stakeholders arguing in favor of the Altenheim site redevelopment plan that includes some kind of open-space component — with Forest Park firefighters arguing for something that would bring in more revenue through property and sales taxes in order to fund public safety.

Most of the Dec. 3 meeting featured a presentation on the zoning issues surrounding the village-owned portion of the site, presentations from two stakeholders — the Altenheim retirement community itself and the Grove condominiums east of the site. Also Ralph DiFebo, who chaired the ad hoc Altenheim committee, the current committee’s predecessor, gave a presentation on why his group recommended using the site as a public park and event space.

A group of Forest Park firefighters and police offi-

See ALTENHEIM on page 15

REPORT BY IGOR STUDENKOV, PAGE 10

Setting the holiday mood

At the Forest Park Holiday Walk, Friday night on Madison (clockwise from top le ) families take holiday photos outside of Kribi Co ee; listening to live per formances at Centuries & Sleuths; the Grinch plays music inside the Brown Cow ; strolling strollers check out Jeanine Guncheon Etcetera’s storefront w indow.

PHOTO S BY ALEX ROGALS/Sta Photographer

December 7-14

BIG WEEK

A Trans-Siberian Christmas Cosmic Light Show

Saturday, Dec. 10, 8:30 - 9:30 p.m., Cernan Ear th and Space Center (I Building)

Celebrate the holidays in the planetarium with the classic rock sounds of Trans-Siberian Orchestra accompanied by brilliant laser light, stars, and digital e ec ts. Dramatic music and visuals combine to ignite the mood and hope of the season. Adults: $10, Seniors (55 and over): $5, Children (2-17): $5, Triton College students, faculty & sta with current semester ID: Free, All other high school or college students with student ID: $5. Triton, 2000 5th Ave, River Grove.

The Monday Enrichment Series Presents:

‘Raised In The Shadow Of The Party’

Monday, Dec. 12, 1:15 p.m., Nineteenth Century Charitable Association Educator and ac tivist Tara Stamps is the daughter of Marion “Nzinga” Stamps, a member of the Black Panther Party. Tara will share stories about how this upbringing shaped her own life. Free, but a voluntar y donation of $15 is suggested. 178 Fo Ave., Oak Park.

Illinois Libraries Present Midwest Baking With Shauna Sever

Tuesday, Dec. 13, 7-8 p.m., vir tually through Illinois Libraries Present Shauna Sever, cookbook author, TV and radio contributor, will host this special holiday event. Sever will share her love of food, baking and any holiday tips to spice up the dinner table at the family gathering. Register now at //bit.ly/ShaunaSever

Hack That Canvas

Wednesday, Dec. 14, 4 - 5 p.m., Forest Park Public Librar y Ar t class that focuses around applying all kinds of photos to canvas to eate collages. You can design collages that represent your life, a passion, or just for sheer fun. For ages 11-13. 7555 Jackson Blvd., Forest Park.

Magical Bean Boozled Jellybean Ta ste Challenge

Saturday, Dec. 10, 3 - 4 p.m., Forest Park Public Librar y

All the 11-13-year- olds who consider themselves jellybean connoisseurs, come here. All kinds of exotic jellybeans will be o ered for this quite unique taste test, pleasing to the palate. 7555 Jackson Blvd., Forest Park

Authors Signing with Bill Rapp, David Grogan & Michael A. Black

S unday, Dec. 11, 2 - 4 p.m., Centuries & Sleuths

These three authors will speak of their mysteries of international intrigue. All three men have been involved with the CIA, the armed forces and law enforcement. They have brought that in-depth knowledge to their novels. 7419 W. Madison, Forest Park

Gift Wrapping Kit

Friday, Dec. 9, 9 a.m. - 9 p.m., Forest Park Public Librar y All sor ts of material o ered to wrap and spruce up that special gift. 7555 Jackson Blvd., Forest Park

Foundr y FP still seeking state liquor license

Application rejected du to paperwork issues event space can appl again

By IGOR STUDENKOV Staff Reporter

Foundry FP, an event space at 7503 Madison St. is still trying to get a state liquor license almost a year after it opened.

The exact status of the license isn’t clear. According to Illinois Liquor Control Commission spokesperson Nicole Sanders, the state license application was rejected, but owner Linda Cibula could re-apply if she wanted. But while Cibula acknowledged that her application faced a few hurdles, she insisted that her application was not rejected, and she said she was still in the process of applying for it

Foundry FP currently has a village liquor license. According to village attor ney Sharon O’Shea, event spaces that have a valid village liquor license and are in the process of applying for a state liquor license can serve, but not sell, liquor. Cibula told the Review that she has never sold liquor, and that, even when she gets the state license, she only intends to sell it on special occasions, such as St. Patrick’s Day.

According to copies of the rejection letters provided to the Review, ILCC rejected the applications on April 18 and on Oct. 19. In both cases, the rejections were on procedural grounds. The April 18 letter cited failure to answer questions on some pages, failure to document whether Foundry FP bought any property from Urban Pioneer Group, which previously operated the event space in the building, and inconsistencies between the business information on file with the Illinois Department of Revenue and the information in the application. The IDR listed Cibula’s niece, Emmeli Blackall, as the sole owner, while the application listed both, and the business name was slightly different – “FOUNDRYFP LLC’ versus “Foundry FP” and “Foundry/ FP Company.”

The Oct. 19 letter rejected the application because of the different name on the lease

paperwork than the “Foundry/FP Company” name.

In both cases, ILCC letters specify that Foundry FP can reapply once the issues identified in the rejections have been corrected.

When asked about the license status, Sanders told the Review that the application was rejected. She did not respond to the questions on the exact timing of the rejection, so it’s not clear whether that refers to the Oct. 19 rejection, or if it was rejected again at some later point. Sanders confirmed that Cibula can resubmit the ap plication.

When asked about the status of the ap plication, Cibula told the Review that “I was not denied,” though she said that “we thought we were finished, but we missed one thing,” mentioning that tax infor mation is an issue.

“We had to finish up some things,” she said. “No big deal.”

Cibula also emphasized that, while Foundry FP had served drinks – most re cently, at the Dec. 2 holiday walk – they were given away for free. She also insisted that the state commission told her it was OK to do that. She also said that there have been instances when customers renting the event space brought their own liquor.

On Oct. 28, Foundry FP was cited for allowing customers to carry drinks outside and failing to control rowdy crowds. The event space reached a settlement with the village, with Cibula ag reeing to improve security and charge customers a $1,500 fee that would be forfeited if police were called.

Dominican students make shop windows merry and bright

Students in university’s fashion program partner with local retailers

By STACEY SHERIDAN Staff Reporter

It’s be ginning to look a lot like Christmas, thanks to Dominican University’s fashion department. Students in the retail promotion and visual merchandizing class deco rated storefronts for four local shops in the grand tradition of holiday window displays.

The class was split into four groups and assigned to work with their designated retailer, three in Oak Park and one in Forest Park With a budget of $100, the groups were tasked with creating displays with a cohesive theme in line with the stores’ aesthetic. Concept boards were made by every student. Associate professor Melissa Fernandez Carr chose the strongest concept for each group, which became the basis for their project.

The size of the groups correlated with the surface area of the windows. Seven worked on displays for Epyk Luxury in Forest Park, while only a pair of students were responsible for the side window of Oak Park’s Ten Thousand Villages. The remaining two groups worked with Sugar Fixe bakery and Jayne boutique in downtown Oak Park All groups were expected to satisfy the wishes of the retailers as well as the project re quirements.

“It’s exciting to see the hard work they put in,” said Carr.

The three shops in Oak Park make for great window shopping as all are located on Marion Street, but don’t forget to check out Epyk Luxury, 7446 Madison St. The group assigned to the Forest Park retailer created a winter wonderland display across two large windows.

“I want it to bring smiles to everybody’s faces,” said sophomore Chloe Cabrales of her group’s display

Cabrales served as project lead for her group, which meant she handled all communication between the group and Epyk Luxury staf f. This project served as the first time Cabrales had ever created a display for an actual store. Her group’s collaborative spirit proved to be Cabrales’ favorite part of the entire assignment.

“It was just really powerful to see creative

minds work together,” she said.

The secular winter wonderland consists of cotton draped over the windowsills to look like freshly fallen snow. Fairy lights twinkle on the support structures, while artificial flur ries sit atop wrapped boxes and garlands. Keeping things chilly, Epyk Luxury employees dressed the mannequins in jackets and coats.

“I’m definitely considering doing like visual merchandising as a career, so it was kind of like a steppingstone to my future a little bit,” Cabrales said.

Glitz and glamor took center stage over at Jayne, 122 N. Marion St., where students highlighted the sequined holiday dresses on display with all white décor. The end re sult of the semester-long project is a point of pride for junior Madison Creamer, who initially battled some nervousness over the assignment.

“I’m proud of myself and everyone else in our group. Even though I was scared to do it, I still did it,” Creamer said. “And it tur ned out exactly the way I expected it to, and it was great.”

Senior Kathryn Greenlea and her part ner ke pt things cozy at Ten Thousand Villages, a fair-trade shop at 121 N. Marion St. In their cor ner window, the pair created a fireplace and rug scene that complemented the Christmas tree displayed in the main window, which was put together by the store’s staf f.

(Le to right) Ezmeralda Lopez, Brianna Yanga, Yael Ibar rola, Kyli Jumes and Chole Cabrales worked on displ ays for Epyk Luxury in Forest Park.

“They definitely took what they’ve lear ned in their merchandising class to make a really cohesive display that kind of told the story,” Ten Thousand Villages shop director Megan Sliz said of the student duo.

Greenlea had an edge on other groups when it came to communicating with her

group’s retailer She is a part-time employee at Ten Thousand Villages, where she handles some of the shop’s marketing and sales. The project allowed her to use those skills in an academic setting, while working closely with her partner.

The students in charge of the Sugar Fixe windows embraced the passage of time, rather than one particular season. The transition of fall to winter served as the concept for the bakery, 119 N. Marion St., with one side of the window devoted to fallen leaves and rich autumnal colors. The other side makes for a wintry dream, with or naments, presents and seasonal Sugar Fixe treats

“It’s kind of like seeing a story as you walk around the building,” said project lead Virdiana Delgado, who will graduate from the university this month.

Upon completion of the project, the entire class met outside the shops to see the window displays in all their glory. This was not only a fun and festive unveiling after months of work, but an opportunity for students to receive feedback from their peers and their professor. The students will be able to include the project in their portfo lios, which they will use to find employment after completing their studies.

“They gave the stores what they were looking for, so I’m really excited for them to have that real world experience,” said Carr

IGOR STUDENKOV/Sta

IGOR STUDENKOV/Sta

Jay ne Boutique in Downtown Oak Park

New location for longtime Thai restaurant

By MELISSA ELSMO Forest Park Eats Editor

Upon entering Yum Thai’s new location, 7330 Madison St., Forest Park, guests are greeted by a flock of celestial blessing swans swirling around the well-appointed dining room. Wood carvings of this style famously ador n temple roofs in Norther n Thailand The swans symbolize good fortune and signify the lift ing of prayers to heaven. The collection of replica carvings inside Yum Thai are representative of Valaiporn PinyoNowlan’s jour ney from young student craving the foods of her homeland to confident Forest Park restaurant owner and chef.

Bor n in Nakhon Si Thammarat, Thailand, Pinyo-Nowlan, known to many as Vicky, emi grated to the United States in 1994 to study English. Though she always dreamed of coming to America, she barely ate anything after her ar

“It was shock I think,” Pinyo-Nowlan, just couldn’ more corn strong flav and spicy much. My ly was wor me and took Yum Thai Park.”

There, in taurant she own two later, Pinyo-Nowlan savored familiar dishes and finally relaxed. She began cooking her mother’s recipes in her host family’s kitchen twice a week and visited Yum Thai as often as possible. She stopped in when she was on her way to and from classes so frequently that the owner ulti mately offered her a job. She thought she would be working for food, but they paid her

$5 an hour plus tips to wait tables two nights a week.

“I thought I was the richest girl in the world,” said Pinyo-Nowlan. “We were not a wealthy family in Thailand and the job made me feel free When the cook made something, he knew I loved like Mee Krob, he would set some aside for me in a little white bowl. That food brought me back to my hometown.”

She had been an advertising account executive in Bangkok prior to traveling to the United States and came with the intention of lear ning English to advance her career in the industry. A sud den economic downtur n in Thailand, however, made it impossible for Pinyo-Nowlan to continue her education. Her family needed her financial support.

After spending a couple of months in Califor nia asserting her independence, PinyoNowlan took a job as a hostess at Baisi Thai in Oak Brook. She stayed on at the 165seat restaurant for more than 20 years lear ning the ins and outs of the restaurant industry and worked her way up into a management role She saved money diligently and helped to suppor t her family at home — in time, thanks in par t to a favorable conversion rate, Pinyo-Nowlan saved enough that she was able to pay of f her parents’ home in Thailand.

During the years she worked at Baisi Thai, Pinyo-Nowlan and her husband John would venture back to Forest Park to dine at Yum Thai to enjoy the authentic dishes that reminded her of home. In 2013, decades after Pinyo-Nowlan’s first Yum Thai meal,

the couple purchased the restaurant when the owners announced they were looking to retire

“John made my dreams come true and he worked three jobs to make sure we would be OK,” said Pinyo-Nowlan. “I perfected all of my recipes and made sure all of my customers entered the land of the smile when they came to Yum Thai.”

In time the owners’ personalized service, attention to detail and home-style dishes cultivated an intensely loyal customer base that sustained their business in Yum Thai’s original location for years. After surviving the pandemic, however, the owners lear ned their landlord was looking to sell the building and knew they needed to find a new home for their restaurant in Forest Park “I love Forest Park,” said the passionate restaurant owner “The people who work at city hall are my customers, the police and fire fighters are my customers. This village made my dreams come true.”

When the space at 7730 Madison Street become available the couple decided to remodel the space and relocate their res-

taurant. Construction took four months, but with the help of artists and designers Pinyo-Nowlan managed to build her dream restaurant. She is now welcoming the customers she calls her “angels” into her intimate dining room with wood paneled walls and red accents. She and her staf f are hoping to update their kitchen equipment in time to help increase their speed but are already back to whipping up more than 2,000 crab rangoon a week and serving a noteworthy ar ray of authentic Norther n and Souther n Thai cur ries.

The sentimental owner may have a new restaurant home, but she has sur rounded herself with items that remind her of how far she has come When Pinyo-Nowlan looks around Yum Thai’s dining room she sees a light fixture she transfer red from the original location hanging on the south wall. She appreciates the flock of blessing swans she salvaged from the now shuttered Baisi Thai and even has a special place for the small white bowl she ate from at Yum Thai all those years ago.

MELISSA ELSMO/Food Editor

Vicky’s favorite deep-fried shrimp in a blanket from Yum ai.

MELISSA ELSMO/Food Editor

Valaiporn Pinyo-Nowlan, Yum ai owner, known to many as Vicki

Yum ai moves east on Madison but keeps focus on customers and tradition

Scratch Kitchen slinging burgers and beers again

A er 10-month closure, team brings streamlined menu to life on Madison

By MELISSA ELSMO Forest Park Eats Editor

After being temporarily closed for 10 months, Scratch Kitchen and Lounge, 7445 Madison St., Forest Park, is slinging burgers and canned beers once again. The decade old eatery reopened in November and they are making the most of their streamlined “survivor menu.” The long awaited reopening comes as a relief to Pat rick O’Brien, chef-owner of Scratch Restaurant Group.

“We’ re still adjusting, but the guests have all been great and I feel whole again,” said O’Brien. “Liter ally, I get goosebumps sometimes being back here.”

In the face of an industry wide staf fing crisis, O’Brien fought hard to build a ca pable kitchen staf f to reinvigorate the flag ship restaurant he af fectionately refers to

as his “baby.” Mattie Rametta worked her way up through the Scratch Restaurant group and now serves as general manager in the Madison Street location. She is confident in the role and is working to foster camaraderie among her small staf f.

Embracing the philosophy that a restaurant should be known for doing a few things well, O’Brien refocused his Madison Street restaurant on smash burgers. The “Scratch smash,” of fered as a single or in double or triple stacks, feature ¼ pound house-g round beef patties

“Our streamlined menu allows us to do what we do best even better,” said Rametta “Our full Scratch menu is available at the Lake Street location in Oak Park if people are looking for something we don’t of fer here.”

The thoughtfully edited list of dishes doesn’t mean creativity isn’t on the menu at Scratch Kitchen and Lounge. Limited specialty burgers, including a popu lar French Onion Smash and “chopped” smash sandwich, join a few other of ferings including a chicken cheesesteak, and a popular fried bologna sandwich to round

out the entrée of ferings

El Paso transplant and cook, Zach Williams, put his name and a creative twist on the macaroni and cheese. He worked in a Mexican restaurant prior to making his way to Chicagoland and his version of the classic dish boasts the addition of ancho chiles and black beans. He is also frying up Korean “pork wings” as a special appetizer of fering. The tender bone in riblets are

tossed in a spicy Korean barbecue sauce and served atop chilled cucumber slices in a sweet and spicy dressing

Rametta encourages guests to come out to enjoy the positive atmosphere and live music on Friday and Saturday nights Jory Avner and Ricky Liontones are among the rotating acts scheduled at the venue. Scratch on Madison also hosts trivia on Tuesday evenings.

NOTICE

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

I. A public hearing to approve a proposed property tax levy increase for the Village of Forest Park for 2022 will be held on Monday, December 19, 2022, 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 2021 were $8,295,434.69.

The proposed corporate and special property taxes to be levied for 2022 are $8,760,826.87. This represents a 6% increase over the previous year.

III. The property taxes extended for debt service and public building commission leases for 2021 were $-0-.

The estimated property taxes to be levied for debt service and public building commission leases for 2022 are $-0-. This represents a 0% increase over the previous year.

IV. The total property taxes extended or abated for 2021 were $8,295,434.69.

The estimated total property taxes to be levied for 2022 are $8,760,826.87. This represents a 6% increase over the previous year.

/s/ Vanessa Moritz Village Clerk

Village of Forest Park

517 Desplaines Avenue Forest Park, IL 60130

MELISSA ELSMO/Food Editor

STRETCHING THEIR WINGS: Korean pork wings at Scratch Kitchen and Lounge are ideal counter fare, with sta happy to be back in business

Forest Park librar y gets new patio, elevator, more energy-efficient features

Improvements build on 2019-2020 renovations

By IGOR STUDENKOV Staff Reporter

Alicia Hammond, Forest Park Public Li brary’s head of community eng agement, reflected that, more than 2 years after they completed a major renovation project, those changes are still new to many pa trons coming through their doors.

“Our first renovation [project] was over in February 2020,” she said. “We had a big par ty – and then, less than a month later, we had to shut down [due to COVID]. I still think – people are coming back, and they’ re star ting just now to use the [renovated] spaces as intended.”

A second round of renovations, which took place throughout this fall and largely finished up in late November, aren’t quite as noticeable, but they still go toward the goal of enhancing the patron experience

and making the building more energy ef ficient. The library got a new outdoor patio that the staf f will be able to use for activities during war mer months The building also got a new elevator that’s more accommodating to the needs of people using mobility devices, new lighting fixtures and ceiling tiles, and new front doors. The lower-level study rooms’ wooden panels were re placed with glass

The library previously completed $1.35 million in more substantial renovations. Most notably, that included expanding the youth services section, building a new, se parate teen area on the main floor, moving the staf f of fices to the lower level, and building four new study rooms and the Quiet Room. That project beg an in Se ptember 2019 and ended in late January 2020.

Hammond said the second project, which

was funded through the library’s capital budget, was largely designed to re pair and re place structures that date back to when the building opened in 1995. The ceiling tiles on both floors were star ting to show their age, as were the ceiling lights, she said. The new lights are more energy-ef ficient, which will save the library money in the long-run and are contributing to the library’s long-ter m goal of becoming more energ y-ef ficient.

Window re pairs also helped with energy ef ficiency, Hammond said, and they got new blinds in the process. Less visibly, the building rece ived HVAC upgrades

The two automatic front doors were re placed as well. Hammond said that, unlike the previous doors, the sensors were redesigned so they would never open at the same time and would be less sensitive to patrons standing in between two doors. This means heat from the building doesn’t blow outside

“They’re not as responsive, so they don’t close as quickly,” Hammond said.

She said one major issue with the previous elevator was that the buttons were by the front door, which forced wheelchair users and other people with mobility devices to awkwardly try to turn around just to get downstairs. The new elevator has a control panel in the back.

is the patio that was built on the library lawn, to the left of the entrance. Hammond said while the library hasn’t finalized how it would be used, the general idea is to have ‘crafting, ar t programs, music” and some STEM lear ning activities for kids. Dur ing the pandemic, the library expanded the range of its patron wireless network – something that, Hammond said, will benefit the patio programming.

The library planted five trees that will eventually grow to provide shade.

The patio currently only has one picnic table. Hammond said that it will be up to the new library director, who is expected to be hired in January 2023, to figure out what other fur niture would go on the patio, and generally fine-tune the concept for what the patio can be used for.

Hammond, who’s been working at the li brary for over 10 years, said that, between the two renovations, the library feels big ger and “more of a 21st century [building].” And she hopes that, as the library continues to expand in-person programming and more patrons visit the library, they will be able to appreciate everything the library did over the past few years.

New window treatments

But perhaps the most noticeable change

“We spent a lot of time planning what we would like the library to be, and what kind of [amenities] we can of fer , and we’re finally seeing people use them the way they were meant to be used,” Hammond said.

ALEX ROGALS/Sta

Photographer

ALEX ROGALS/Sta Photographer

New lighting at the Forest Park Public Library.

CRIME

Customer threatens Walmar t auto mechanic with knife

A 49-year-old Hillside man alle gedly threatened to kill an auto mechanic at the Walmart at 1300 Desplaines Ave. on the morning of Nov. 28.

The alle ged offender arrived at the store’s automotive department at around 7 a.m. and asked for an oil change. The victim processed the request and went to help another customer. The man yelled at the victim, and the two alle gedly got into an argument. The security cameras captured the alle ged offender pulling out a pocketknife. The victim said that the Hillside man threatened to kill him, at which point the victim walked away and called the store manager.

When reached via text messages, the alle ged offender acknowledged that he argued with the victim and pulled out a knife but claimed that it was in self-defense. He declined to come to the police station, saying that he didn’t have time.

The alle ged offender was subsequently arrested and charged with one count of ag gravated assault.

Burglary of church

A burglar broke into the St. Bernardine Catholic Church, 7246 Harrison St., sometime in the early morning of Nov. 28, stealing around $100 from the church collection boxes.

The church sacristan told police he entered the building at around 5:30 a.m. and discovered that the church back door was pried open from the inside, and the door window was broken. He and the church’s priest inspected the building and discovered that the three collection boxes were pried open.

Subsequent search revealed that a washroom window was broken in. The responding officer speculated that this was how the burglar got into the church. The burglar left footprints outside the window. The church maintenance engineer planned to review the security camera footage, but that information wasn’t available at the time of the re port

Recovered stolen vehicle

A black 2014 Hyundai sedan parked on the 800 block of Ferdinand Avenue was recovered in Berkeley on Dec. 4 at around 3:45 p.m.

The victim received a call from his sonin-law, who told him that he got a call from Berkeley police saying that the vehicle was found in the village, on the 1400 block of Taft Ave., with its rear driver’s side window broken. The victim last saw the vehicle at around 2 p.m. He checked the parking spot and saw that the vehicle was missing, with broken glass scattered nearby.

The vehicle was towed to Powers Towing, of Hillside.

Serial tire slashings

Two cars parked at 210 Circle Ave. had their tires slashed sometime on the night of Dec. 4 – on the same block that had previously seen five tire slashings since Oct. 21.

On Nov. 23, the owner of a purple 2018

Toyota RAV4 discovered some tires were slashed. On Nov. 27, someone slashed all four tires of a 2018 Ford sedan and a 2014 Chevrolet Impala overnight. Both incidents took place at the 200 block of Circle Ave.

This time around, a grey 2016 Honda sedan and grey 2019 Jeep Cherokee had their tires slashed overnight. In both instances, both the front and the rear tires of the driver’s side of the vehicles was slashed. Police have been reviewing security footage from a camera that was put up in response to the earlier tire slashings, but the results weren’ t available at the time of the re port

These items were obtained from police re ports filed by the Forest Park Police Department, Nov 28-Dec 4, and re present a portion of the incidents to which police responded. Unless otherwise indicated, anybody named in these re ports has only been charged with a crime. These cases have not been adjudicated.

Compiled by Igor Studenkov

DOYOUWANTTOBUYAVOWEL?

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Vowels, letters and words of all kinds are valuable to everyone at GCM. As a nonprofit news organization, we’re committed to telling the stories about the people, places

and institutions in Forest Park that might otherwise go untold. But we need your help to keep words on our pages and stories on our websites.

Our community-funded newsroom can’t run without reader support. Each year GCM spends more than $250,000 on printing alone and this week we’d like to raise $10,000 to offset the cost of getting vowels on the page all while

maximizing our generous match opportunity!

From now through the end of the year, we’re inviting you to join other engaged community members who make our work possible by donating. If you buy GCM a vowel by December 31, our pool of MatchMakers will double your investment in us by matching your gift up to $10,000.

Anything but ordinary.

Access to Duly Health and Care Oak Park for Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Illinois Medicare members

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ALTENHEIM

Stakeholders weigh in

from page 1

cers attended the meeting and Lt. BJ Reid argued that the village should focus on generating funding to help address the staf fing shor tfalls and deferred maintenance backlog. Any development in Forest Park, he argued, should prioritize generating tax revenue.

DiFebo was originally supposed to give his presentation on June 14, 2021, when his committee was still active At the time, Mayor Rory Hoskins said he wanted to see presentations from other interested parties Since then, the committee was dis banded and the Altenheim Committee was assembled in its place to look at all of the past site proposals, get community input, and develop a recommended redevelop ment conce pt.

Committee Chair Mar ty Tellalian gave an overview of the site zoning, explaining that, while the entire property is zoned R-3, which allows mid-rise housing, the covenant included in the sale of the property restricted the residential, open space and of fice uses permitted under smaller-scale R-1 and R-2 zoning. It also required that “such use will not interfere with the reasonable, quiet enjoyment” of Altenheim residents

Tellalian said the village would most likely re zone the property to Planned Unit Development, which would allow for some deviation from the zoning requirements while also giving Forest Park more control over what goes up on the proper ty. The Grove was built under a PUD.

In his presentation later during the meeting, DiFebo mentioned in his presentation that the covenant conflicts with one of the conditions of the $750,000 Illinois De part ment of Commerce and Economic Opportunity grant the village got to help cover demolition costs and called for the prop er ty to be redeveloped as “mixed use that will consist of residential, commercial and green space.”

Committee member Mark Zinni, who has also sat on the Altenheim governing board for the past five years, said the Altenheim board was still interested in enforcing the covenant. He mentioned that the board would like to see the nor th portion of the property remain an open space, and they would like to require the developer to in clude environmentally sustainable features such as the electric vehicle charging

stations Zinni said Altenheim would like to purchase some small sections of the property near the buildings to straighten out some property lines that were drawn during the sale.

“We’d like the oppor tunity to buy back some property sur rounding our property, which we think would be least desirable to the developer,” he said.

Gene Ar mstrong, president of The Grove Midrise Condominium Association and chair of the Concer ned Van Buren Citizens neighborhood org anization, presented the results of the survey that the latter group conducted earlier this year He said they sent out 184 surveys to the residents living east of Altenheim, and 114 people re sponded. Of the survey respondents, 75% suppor ted kee ping the area south of the retirement community open, 68% favored townhomes somewhere on the site, and 58% opposed any kind of commercial de velopment.

Based on the survey responses, Ar mstrong presented a site concept that called for a park with walking paths and a garden area south of the retirement community and east of Altenheim Cemetery, townhomes and/or midrise to the west and the picnic area to the nor thwest. The residential homes would include a new access road connected to Madison Street.

DiFebo’s presentation outlined his committee’s proposal to tur n the property into a public park and an event space. He argued that the existing event space on the nor side of the property was too cramped, and pointed to the Chicago Metropolitan Agency for Planning (CMAP) 2040 plan, which stated that municipalities should have acres of land per 1,000 people. At 1.65 acres of land per 1,000 people, DiFebo said, Fo est Park is under that goal — but kee ping Altenheim open would help remedy that.

Tellalian noted that the number doesn include the neighboring forest preserves which DiFebo argued isn’t relevant since they aren’t close enough for many Forest Parkers to reach on foot.

Since the village isn’t interested in running parks, and the Park District of Fo est Park indicated it wasn’t interested the land, DiFebo suggested establishing Civic Center Authority to run it.

He argued that the property tax generation benefits were over rated when one considers the money the village spends to provide services to the properties, as well the fact that most of the tax revenue goes to the school districts

He also addressed the proposal that has been floated at earlier committee meetings to redevelop the underutilized nor th CTA

parking lot, noting that there is a water main and a fiberoptic cable running under the property, which would limit any resi dential buildings.

But Reid countered that his de par tment has been dealing with a growing volume of calls even as its staf fing remained the same and the fire station showed its age. As a resident and father, he would prefer a park, but added that generating revenue must take priority

“Our revenue is not adequate to meet our cur rent, nor our future public-safety needs,” he said. “Firefighters are, by nature and by necessity, pragmatists. Please

be economic pragmatists as you navig ate the development of both Altenheim and other future village developments.”

Police Of ficer Brendan Reilly said that, while he wasn’t originally planning to speak, given that his de par tment faced similar issues, he felt compelled to express suppor t for Reid.

“I can make the same points — exactly what the fire de par tment says about bodies — about equipment, about time, about calls for service,” he said. “So I stand with them and [agree] that your concer ns are le giti mate and should be thought of.”

Concerned Van Buren Citizens’ plan for the Altenheim property

OPINION

Rep. Ford leads on guns

There is little upside to living in a state as vividly blue as Illinois if the super-sized Democratic majorities in the state senate and house don’t flex that power for life-changing good.

Come the new year, four Democrats in the House will introduce swee ping le gislation, dubbed the Protect Illinois Communities Act, to control the gun violence that decimates well-being in our state. Whether it is indiscriminate drive-by shootings on the West Side or mass shootings in schools or at a North Suburban 4th of July parade, we face a plague of gun violence across Illinois

Proud to say that Re p. LaShawn Ford (D-8th) is one of four co-sponsors of the le gislation. Ford re presents the West Side as well as por tions of Oak Park, Forest Park and other suburbs to the south and west. He has become a powerful leader on issues of criminal justice reform. He has played a leading role in crafting, passing and last week refining the landmark SAFE-T justice reform bill which takes ef fect Jan. 1.

This new gun le gislation, which also has the support of Gov. J.B. Pritzker, would ban the sale of assault weapons and, after 300 days, ban the possession of such weapons in Illinois. It would raise the le g al age to purchase a gun leg ally to 21 and outlaw the sale of bullet-spraying oversized ammunition clips. It would also focus on investigating the traf ficking of guns from neighboring states with no effective gun safety laws and extend to 12 months from 6 the duration of a firear m restraining order.

There will be opposition to this common-sense push for gun safety from Re publicans and likely some percentage of downstate Democrats. That’s why acting in a moment when Democratic majorities are so astoundingly high is the necessary step.

There will also be doubts about the virtue of passing such le gislation in a time when the U.S. Supreme Cour t has been captured illicitly by the far right.

But fighting for what is right means ignoring the doubters. It means driving action at the local and state level to fuel a wave of action across America that tur ns our national fetish for weapons into a more manageable aber ration.

Thanks to Re p. Ford for providing leadership.

Caring for the homeless and mentally ill

Dan Bailey, the editor of the Poplar Park Times, was able to get Police Chief Caleb Johnson’s Op-Ed piece into last Wednesday’s issue just ahead of press time.

Johnson was responding to the announcement made by New York’s Mayor Eric Adams that he intends to implement a policy of moving homeless people “deemed to be in psychiatric crisis” from the subway trains to mental health facili ties for evaluation, against their will if necessary.

OUR VIEW HOLMES

Poplar Park’s top cop sympathized with the New York mayor’s asser tion, “If severe mental illness is causing someone to be unsheltered and a danger to themselves, we have a moral obligation to help them get the treatment and care they need,” but he objected to requiring the police to participate in the action.

“The police,” the chief argued, “are already asked to do everything from resolving domestic disputes to ad ministering Narcan to opioid overdose victims. Mayor Adams is asking New York cops to do one more thing that is not what they signed up for when they graduated from the academy.”

When Pastor Walter Mitty read that letter to the editor, he resolved to sit next to Sharissa Hawkins at next Sunday’s coffee hour after the service because he remembered the social worker saying that almost everyone who chooses to live on the street instead of going to a shelter has mental illness issues

And sure enough, the next day Henry the homeless man whom Pastor Walt had been helping for years stopped in at the of fice of Poplar Park Community Church to ask if “the Rev” had any of those McDonald’s gift cards left in his desk drawer.

Mitty had been visited by the homeless man for years and even though he was a lay person, he had decided that his friend was one of those in psychiatric crisis. He got along better with his imaginary animal friends than with people.

He resolved to talk to Sharissa after wishing the homeless man ‘good luck and stay warm’ as Henry went back out into the cold.

“So, Sharissa,” Mitty be g an as he pulled up a chair next to the social worker at that Sunday’s coffee hour, “what do you think about Mayor Adams’ idea of forcing the mentally who are living on the street into treatment for their own good?”

Sharissa rolled her eyes before replying, “Pastor, some of these homeless people do have real mental health issues and because of that some choose to stay

on the street even when I of fer to take them to a shelter.”

Just then Carla Her nandez sat down across the table.

“You look deep in conversation,” she said.

“You’ re right on time,” said Mitty, greeting his parishioner with a smile and then a sigh.

“We were just talking about Mayor Adams’ idea about forcing the mentally ill homeless into treatment,” Sharissa explained.

“Well you know all about the issue of homelessness, Sharissa,” said Carla, who worked for the Suburban Coalition for the Homeless.

“As you know and maybe our pastor knows,” Carla continued, “when our outreach workers approach the homeless living on the street, many take us up on our invitation to come to our shelter that evening, but some don’t.”

“And most of them are the folks Adams is talking about,” Sharissa added.

“Right, and 70% of those who enter the shelter stick with our program, eventually get back on their feet, and be gin inde pendent living again.”

“But the remaining 30%?” asked Mitty.

“I’m afraid that even though they acce pt our invitation to come to the shelter,” Carla said, “and even though they really want to succeed, they have so many issues beyond our resources to help that they wind up back on the street.”

“So what about forcing those folks into treatment, for their own good.”

Carla and Sharissa responded with rueful frowns.

“You’ re the one who is trained to think about ethics,” Carla be g an. “You tell me. Is it ethical to force someone to do something they don’t want to do, even if you think it’s for their own good?”

Sharissa added, “I’ ll never forget what one homeless man in our program said: If you are not mentally ill when you become homeless, just being on the street for a few months will make you crazy.”

“And that’s why both of us ag ree,” said Carla, “that the first priority has to be getting people into housing. Without that stability, treatment doesn’t help much, especially if you are forced into it.”

“And that costs money,” said Sharissa.

“Money from either residents paying higher taxes,” added the pastor of Poplar Park Community Church, “or church members voluntarily putting more in the of fering plate.”

After another sigh, he added, “And what are the chances of either one happening. Or both?”

Repor ter Igor Studenkov

Director of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion

Michael Romain

Senior Editor Bob Uphues

Digital Publishing & Technology Manager

Briana Higgins

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

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

Staff

Big Week Editor James Porter

Photographers Alex Rogals, Shanel Romain

Design/Production Manager Andrew Mead

Editorial Design Manager Javier Govea

Designer Susan McKelvey

S ales and Marketing Representatives

Lourdes Nicholls, Marc Stopeck, Kamil Brady

Business & Development Manager Mary Ellen Nelligan

Donor Relations Manager/Food Editor Melissa Elsmo

S ales & Digital Development Manager Stacy Coleman

Circulation Manager Jill Wagner

Editor and Publisher Dan Haley

Special Projects Manager Susan Walker

Board of Directors

Chair Judy Gre n

Treasurer Nile Wendorf Deb Abrahamson, Gary Collins, 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

Out- of-county subscriptions: $42 per year

Forest Park Review is published digitally and in print by Growing Community Media NFP

© 2022 Growing Community Media NFP

I’m back … and so are my eyes

My wife’s family celebrated Christmas Eve with their cousins and Christmas

Day with immediate family. So our first married Christmas together, in 1980, we joined my wife’s family on Christmas Eve and hosted them on Christmas Day.

I was wearing hard contact lenses on Christmas Eve. We spent hours celebrating with my wife’s cousins and watching them open presents. My eyes were already sore but I hung in there. I thought we’d be heading home soon to our little coach house in River Forest. But we had one more stop to make. My wife promised it would be brief because these cousins were poor. It wouldn’t take them long to open their meager gifts.

They may have been poor but they must have discovered credit cards. T he gift-giving went on endlessly. I even got in on the act by giving a pair of jeans to a guy I had never met before and haven’t seen since. By this time, I felt like I had rocks in my eyes Every time I blinked, it felt like I was getting stabbed in both eyeballs

We finally made it home that night and I removed the contacts. I tried to go to sleep but my eyes still hurt. I woke my wife up and asked her to drive me to an emergency room. The ER doctor told me I had scratched cor neas. They applied huge bandages to both eyes and instructed me to keep them on the next day.

I was suddenly blind. My wife led me to the car and guided me upstairs to the coach house I was no longer in pain, so I grabbed a few hours’ sleep before my in-laws arrived. They were shocked to see me wearing huge bandages over both eyes hey were a bit alar ing a blind man stumble around the apartment.

I was useless that da fined to sitting carefully in hair. I couldn’t see my food bu it tasted good. Someone me a sweater. It felt soft and asked what color it was. After a da I removed the huge bandages. I could see again and there was no per manent damage to my cor neas

I was reminded of this experience a few weeks ago when I again suffered excruciating eye pain.

I woke up with conjuncti vitis in my left eye. I drove with one eye to an urgent care facility. The doctor prescribed antibiotic eye drops. I was on my way to Walgreen’s when I decided to stop at the Eagles Lodge to renew my membership in the Historical Society of Forest Park.

I didn’t expect to find a large party in progress There was food and drink. There was even a band

A L OOK BA CK IN TIME

Mario Lanza and Gene

Autry sang Christmas

In this 1951 ad for Trage Brothers Appliance Company at 7440 Madison (present day Grand Appliance), they suggest giving records for Christmas. While Mario Lanza Sings Christmas Music topped the Christmas charts this year, “Rudolf the Red-Nosed Reindeer” (1949) and “Frosty the Snowman” (1950) were still making history with Gene Autry’s record-breaking recordings

Jill Wagner

When I tried to renew my membership, I was told I would have to wait until Bingo was over. I sat with some friends and played Bingo with one eye. The last game was a cover all. When I finally made it to Walgreen’s, I lear ned the phar macy is closed on Sundays.

The next mor ning I applied the medicated ve to dig out

Class specifications are intended to present a descriptive list of the range of duties performed by employees in the class.

Specifications are not intended to reflect all duties performed within the job.

DEFINITION

To perform various network/system administration, computer support, and operational activities for the Village including computer system setup, configuration, and testing.

SUPERVISION RECEIVED AND EXERCISED

Reports directly to the Information Technology Services Director.

EXAMPLE OF DUTIES:

Essential and other important duties and responsibilities may include, but are not limited to, the following:

Essential duties and responsibilities

1. Ensure that best in class customer service is provided to both internal and external customers and also embrace, support, and promote the Village’s core values, beliefs and culture.

2. Configure, test, and deploy network systems, such as, firewalls, routers, switches, wireless equipment, network servers and storage arrays.

3. Configure, test, and deploy system servers, such as, file, print, Internet, e-mail, database, and application servers.

4. Configure, test, and monitor server and end-user systems for security, such as, user accounts, login scripts, file access privileges, and group policy management.

5. Configure, test, and deploy end-user systems, such as, workstations, laptops, mobile devices, printers, and software.

6. Test, configure, deploy, and support security systems, such as, facility access system, video & audio system.

7. Monitor and auditing of networks, systems, and user activities to ensure security and efficiency of systems. Create scripts and reports of detail activities for regular review.

8. Perform and participate in disaster recovery activities, such as, backup procedures, data recovery, and system recovery planning.

9. Assist end-users with computer problems or queries. Troubleshoot systems as needed and meet with users to analyze specific system needs.

10. Ensure the uniformity, reliability and security of system resources including network, hardware,

HELP WANTED

Qualifications:

• Valid Illinois Professional Educator License with an endorsement in School Psychology.

HELP WANTED

software and other forms of systems and data.

11. Prepare, create and update user/technical procedure documentations and provide computer training.

12. Assemble, test, and install network, telecommunication and data equipment and cabling.

13. Participate in research and recommendation of technology solutions.

Other important responsibilities and duties

1. Train users in the area of existing, new or modified computer systems and procedures.

2. Participate in the preparation of various activity reports.

3. Travel and support remote facilities and partner agencies.

4. Operate, administer and manage the Village and Public Safety computer systems, including E-911 center, in-vehicle computer systems.

5. Prepare clear and logical reports and program documentation of procedures, processes, and configurations.

6. Complete projects on a timely and efficient manner.

7. Communicate effectively both orally and in writing.

8. Establish and maintain effective working relationships with those contacted in the course of work.

9. Perform related duties and responsibilities as required.

QUALIFICATIONS

Knowledge of: Principals and procedures of computer systems, such as, data communication, hierarchical structure, backups, testing and critical analysis.

Hardware and software configuration of. computers, servers and mobile devices, including computing environment of Windows Server and Desktop OS and applications, Unix/Linux OS, VMware, iOS/Android.

Network protocols, security, configuration and administration, including firewalls, routers, switches and wireless technology.

Cabling and wiring, including CAT5/6, fiber network, telephone, serial communication, termination, and punch-down.

Telecommunications theory and technology, including VoiP, serial communication, wireless protocols, PBX, analog, fax, voicemail and auto-attendant.

Principles and methods of computer programming, coding and testing, including power shell, command scripting, macros, and

VB scripts.

Modern office procedures, methods and computer equipment.

Technical writing, office productivity tools and database packages.

Ability to:

Maintain physical condition appropriate to the performance of assigned duties and responsibilities, which may include the following:

- Walking, standing or sitting for extended periods of time

- Operating assigned equipment

- Lift 50 pounds of equipment, supplies, and materials without assistance

- Working in and around computer equipped vehicles

Maintain effective audio-visual discrimination and perception needed for:

- Making observations

- Communicating with others

- Reading and writing

- Operating assigned equipment and vehicles

Maintain mental capacity allowing for effective interaction and communication with others.

Maintain reasonable and predictable attendance. Work overtime as operations require.

Experience and Training Guidelines

Experience: Three years of network/system administration in the public or private sector, maintaining a minimum of 75 Client Workstation computers. AND

Training: Possession of a Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university with major coursework in computer science or a related field. Certifications in Microsoft

Server Administration, Networking, Applications and Cisco Networking.

Possession of a valid Illinois Driver License is required at the time of appointment.

Vaccination against COVID-19 strongly preferred.

WORKING CONDITIONS

Work in a computer environment; sustained posture in a seated position for prolonged periods of time; continuous exposure to computer screens; work in and around computerized vehicles outdoor and garage facility; lifting heavy equipment, communication cabling and wiring into walls and ceilings.

ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT

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

FULL TIME HELP WANTED

SPOTLESS CARWASH at 7343 Roosevelt and 7802 Madison St in Forest Park is in need of an attendant. We are looking for someone who likes to be outside and is friendly and likes people.

The duties are to meet and greet customers, make change, sell tokens, automatic and self serve wash instructions, keep the lot, equipment room, and perimeter clean.

Pay is $13.00 per hour to start. The hours an attendant is on duty are 9 – 11 and 12 – 5 on weekdays, 9 – 11 and 11:30 – 4 on Saturday and Sunday. Looking for Wednesday through Sunday. If you are mechanically inclined please mention it.

Please come to 7343 Roosevelt Rd. in Forest Park to pick up an application. 708-771-2945.

Thank you

PARKING ENFORCEMENT OFFICER

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

Marketing Specialist (Chicago, IL) Research market conditions in domestic and int’l markets in areas tea & related products. Design/develop marketing strategies; executive plans to promote products; collect and analyze price, trends, brands of competitors to adjust and form marketing/promoting proposals. Work with management to develop data information, marketing campaign planning. Design/develop marketing contents. Bachelor’s degree in Marketing, International Business, or Economics required. 2 yrs of experience in a sales or marketing position involving marketing or promotion projects required. Send resume to HR, Spirit Tea LLC, 3431 W. Fullerton Ave., Chicago, IL 60647

• Prefer at least 5 years of successful educational experience in both general and special education; and at least five years of successful experience in evaluating students, collaborating, and problemsolving with school and District teams.

• Master’s Degree preferred.

Demonstrates knowledge of special education legislation and acts in accordance with those mandates; follows policies and procedures of the District. Develops and implements activities that encourage students to be life-long learners. Identify and assess the learning, development, and needs of individuals and groups, as well as, the environmental factors that affect learning and school success. Uses assessment data about the

students and their environments in developing appropriate interventions and programs. Conducts appropriate individual psychoeducational assessments for children who have or are suspected of having a disability and provides written reports of assessment results.

Participates in all staff conferences of students having received psychological evaluation or reevaluation, including hospital discharge. Provide support to special education personnel including assisting staff with development of functional behavioral analysis and behavior intervention plans, modeling “best practices” and assisting special educators with instructional practices.

For a complete list of duties, please visit our website at https://www.district90.org/about/ employment

Interested candidates should complete the online application available at www.district90.org.

FINANCE COORDINATOR

The Village of Oak Park is seeking qualified candidates for the position of Finance Coordinator. The ideal candidate will perform a wide variety of responsible and complex administrative, secretarial and clerical duties for the Finance department; and will provide information and assistance to the public regarding department to which assigned. Applicants are encouraged to visit the Village of Oak Park’s website at http://www.oakpark.us/jobs.

Interested and qualified applicants must complete a Village of Oak Park application. This position is open until filled.

COMMUNITY HEALTH ADVISOR

The Village of Oak Park is seeking a qualified candidate for the position of Community Health Advisor. The professional in this position is responsible for a variety of tasks including; promoting a safe health care environment; including health education, outreach and promotion which includes disseminating information, making referrals, and counseling as well as managing caseloads, and performing a variety of tasks relative to assigned area of responsibility.

Applicants are encouraged to visit the Village of Oak Park’s website at http://www.oak-park.us/jobs. First review of applications December 19, 2022.

FULL-TIME POLICE RECORDS CLERK

FOREST PARK, IL

The Forest Park Police Department, seeks a Full-Time Civilian Information Management Records Clerk reporting to the Lieutenant of the Criminal Investigations Division. Eligible candidates will be required to pass an aptitude test and an extensive background check. Qualifications include excellent organizational skills, computer skills, the ability to work under pressure and meet deadlines,

good knowledge of English language, and adherence to all police department policies and procedures.

Responsibilities and duties include subpoena fulfilment, evidence room duties, data entries, general office functions, report creation, and other duties as needed our assigned. Open until filled. Applications are available at Village Hall, 517 Desplaines Ave. or at www.forestpark. net and should be returned Attn: Vanessa Moritz, Village Clerk, Village of Forest Park, 517 Des Plaines Avenue, Forest Park, IL 60130. Email: vmoritz@forestpark.net

Assistant Project Managers sought by LG Construction Group LLC in Chicago, IL to complete subcontractor evals & comparison of bids w/ prjct mngr. Apply at jobpostingtoday. com Ref# 16327.

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

Oak Park, Illinois (Chicagoland) www.collab4kids.org

Since its beginnings in 2002, the Collaboration for Early Childhood (the Collab) has embraced the vision that all children should arrive at kindergarten safe, healthy, ready to succeed and eager to learn. The Collab’s focus has always been on how much impact the organization could have on the youngest among us in the community.

The Executive Director will be charged with taking the organization into its next phase of organizational life. He/She/They will have the opportunity to leverage the organization’s expanded influence and funding, potentially beyond the state of Illinois. The Executive Director will enhance the organization’s advocacy profile and will help shape a policy agenda for early learning. He/She/ They will help expand the organization’s opportunities for revenue generation, diversification, and strategic partnerships. Most significantly, the Collab will continue to serve as one of the state’s primary thought leaders in early childhood education.

The minimum of a bachelor’s degree is required, though a master’s or advanced degree is preferred.

The salary range for this position is between $120,000 and $140,000 and will be commensurable with experience. The Collab offers a comprehensive benefits package, including but not limited to 12 paid holidays, vacation days and group health insurance, as well as a retirement plan.

It is the policy of the Collaboration to afford equal employment opportunities regardless of actual or perceived race, color, national origin, ancestry, citizenship status, age, religion, marital status, disability, sex, gender, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity, military or veteran status, order of protection status, genetic information, or any other category protected by applicable law. This policy of equal employment applies to all aspects of the employment relationship, including but not limited to: initial consideration for employment; job placement and assignment of responsibilities; performance evaluation; promotion and advancement; compensation and fringe benefits; training and professional development opportunities; formulation and application of human resource policies and rules; facility and service accessibility; and discipline and termination.

Applications are being received by Kittleman & Associates, LLC. For more information or to apply, please visit https://bit.ly/3tBKpLu (click on the Apply button at the bottom of the page to upload a current resume and letter of interest).

HELP WANTED • NETWORK SPECIALIST

River Forest Public Schools

River Forest Public Schools, District 90 is seeking an experienced part-time School Psychologist

PUBLIC NOTICES PUBLIC NOTICES PUBLIC NOTICES

PUBLIC NOTICE SUMMONS (Family Law) CITACIÓN (Derecho familiar)

CASE NUMBER (NÚMERO DE CASO): HF22130927

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

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

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

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

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

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

For legal advice, contact a lawyer immediately. Get help finding a lawyer at the California Courts Online SelfHelp Center (www.courts.ca.gov/ selfhelp), at the

California Legal Services website (www.lawhelpca.org), or by contacting your local county bar association.

Tiene 30 días de calendario después de haber recibido la entrega legal de esta Citación y Petición para presentar una Respuesta (formulario FL-120) ante la corte y efectuar la entrega legal de una copia al demandante. Una carta o llamada telefónica o una audiencia de la corte no basta para protegerlo.

órdenes puede hacerlas acatar en cualquier lugar de California.

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

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

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

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

Date (Fecha): OCT 21, 2022

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

[SEAL]

Published in the Wednesday Journal November 23, 30, December 7, 14, 2022

PUBLIC NOTICE INVITATION FOR BIDS

Sealed proposals will be received by the Housing Authority of the Village of Oak Park (Owner) at 21 South Blvd., Oak Park, Il, 60302 until 2:00 p.m. local time on Thursday, January 19, 2023, at which time they will be opened and read. The sealed bids will be received for the following project:

Turnkey modernization of two traction elevators and its mechanical and electrical systems at the Mills Park Tower public housing property.

Drawings and Specifications are available at no cost in PDF electronic format from Lerch Bates Building Insights, Charlie Geist, Regional Manager, 328 S. Jefferson St., Suite 760, Chicago, IL 60661, telephone (312) 332-5444, email Charlie.Geist@LerchBates.com.

Bidders are required to attend the mandatory pre-bid meeting on Thursday, December 15, 2022, at 9:30 a.m. on the first floor of Mills Park Tower, 1025 Pleasant Place, Oak Park, IL 60302. If bidders have questions or need further information, they may call Ken Southward at (708) 386-9322, extension 134.

Bid Security: Each bid must be accompanied by a bid bond in the amount of 5% of the base bid or a certified check in the same amount payable to the Housing Authority of the Village of Oak Park. Checks of unsuccessful bidders will be returned as soon as practicable after the opening of the bids.

Performance Bond: The Contractor, before commencing the work, shall furnish a Performance Bond for contracts over $100,000.00. The Performance Bond shall be in an amount equal to 100% of the full amount of the Contract Sum as security for the faithful performance of the obligations of the Contract Documents. Such Bond shall be issued by a Surety satisfactory to the Owner and shall name the Owner as primary Co-Obligee.

NOVENAS

PRAYER TO ST. JUDE

May the Sacred Heart of Jesus be adored, glorified, loved & preserved throughout the world now & forever.

Sacred Heart of Jesus, pray for us.

St. Jude worker of miracles, pray for us. St. Jude helper of the hopeless, pray for us. Say this prayer 9 times a day for 9 days. By the 8th day your prayer will be answered. It has never been known to fail .Publication must be promised. Thank you Jesus. Thank You St . Jude. R.B.

NEVER FAIL NOVENA

May the Sacred Heart of Jesus be praised, adored and glorified throughout the world, now and for-ever. Most Sacred Heart of Jesus, I put my trust in you. Holy Mary Mother of Jesus, pray for me. St. Theresa child of Jesus, pray for me.

St. Jude, helper of hopeless causes, pray for me and grant this favorI ask. Say this prayer 9 times a day for 9 days .R.B

PRAYER TO THE BLESSED VIRGIN (NEVER KNOWN TO FAIL)

Oh, most beautiful flower of Mt. Carmel, fruitful vine, splendor of heaven, Blessed Mother of the Son of God, Immaculate Virgin, assist me in my necessity. Oh, Star of the Sea, help me and show me, herein you are my mother. Oh, Holy Mary, Mother of God, Queen of Heaven and Earth. I humbly beseech you from the bottom of my heart to suc cor in my necessity (make request). There are none that can withstand your power. Oh, show me herein you are my mother. Oh, Mary, conceived without sin, pray for us who have recourse to thee (3 times). Holy Mary, I place this prayer in your hands (3 times). Say this prayer for three consecutive days and publish; your request will be granted. R.B.

Si no presenta su Respuesta a tiempo, la corte puede dar órdenes que afecten su matrimonio o pareja de hecho, sus bienes y la custodia de sus hijos. La corte también le puede ordenar que pague manutención, y honorarios y costos legales. Para asesoramiento legal, póngase en contacto de inmediato con un abogado. Puede obtener información para encontrar un abogado en el Centro de Ayuda de las Cortes de California (www.sucorte.ca.gov), en el sitio web de los Servicios Legales de California (www.lawhelpca.org) o poniéndose en contacto con el colegio de abogados de su condado.

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

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

The Housing Authority of the Village of Oak Park reserves the right to award the contract at its discretion, to reject any or all proposals, to waive informalities in bidding, and to hold the three lowest proposals for a period of sixty (60) days after the bid due date.

This project is subject to Federal Regulations including Fair Labor and Prevailing Wages. The Housing Authority of the Village of Oak Park, in an effort to reaffirm its policy of non-discrimination, encourages the efforts of Contractors and Sub-Contractors to take affirmative action in providing for Equal Employment Opportunity without regard to race, religion, creed, color, sex, national origin, age, protected Veteran status or handicap unrelated to ability to perform the job. The Owner encourages General Contractors to employ minority subcontractors and suppliers.

Ken Southward Director of Housing Programs (708) 386-9322, ext. 134

PUBLIC NOTICES PUBLIC NOTICES PUBLIC NOTICES PUBLIC NOTICES

PUBLIC NOTICES

PUBLIC NOTICE OF COURT DATE FOR

REQUEST FOR NAME CHANGE

STATE OF ILLINOIS, CIRCUIT COURT COOK COUNTY.

Request of Ryan Cavario Isom Case Number 20224005929

There will be a court date on my Request to change my name from: Ryan Cavario Isom to the new name of: Rian Isom

The court date will be held: On January 31, 2023 at 11am at FOURTH MUNICIPAL DISTICT

COURT OF COOK COUNTY 1500 MAYBROOK DRIVE, MAYWOOD, COOK COUNTY, IL via Zoom.

ZOOM ACCESS CODE: 914 3462 0283 PASSWORD: 988648

Published in Wednesday Journal December 7, 14, 21, 2022

PUBLIC NOTICE

VILLAGE OF RIVERSIDE, ILLINOIS

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARINGS

Notice is hereby given to all interested persons that public hearings before the Planning and Zoning Commission of the Village of Riverside will be held on Wednesday, December 28, 2022 at 7:00 p.m., or as soon thereafter as the business of the Planning and Zoning Commission may permit, in the Riverside Township Hall, Room 4, 27 Riverside Road, Riverside, Illinois, to consider various proposed text amendments to the Village of Riverside Zoning Ordinance.

The first public hearing will consider various changes to the Village’s accessory structure regulations. Affected sections include, but may not be limited to, Section 10-7-3 (Accessory Structures and Uses) and Section 10-11-4 (Other Terms Defined). Among the potential changes being considered include changing the height and setback and standards for accessory buildings, allowing limited utilities in accessory buildings, and revising related definitions. Following is information specific to the first public hearing:

Application No.: PZ 22-11

Petitioner: Village of Riverside

Proposed Text Amendments: Various changes to the Village of Riverside Zoning Ordinance regulations. Affected sections include, but may not be limited to, Section 10-7-3 (Accessory Structures and Uses) and Section 10-11-4 (Other Terms Defined) of the Riverside Zoning Ordinance. Among the potential changes being considered are changes to the height and setback standards for accessory buildings, allowing limited utilities in accessory buildings, and revising related definitions.

The second public hearing will consider various changes to the Village’s temporary tent regulations. Affected sections include, but may not be limited to, Section 10-6-3 (Temporary Uses), Section 10-7-3 (Accessory Structures and Uses), and Section 10-11-4 (Other Terms Defined). Among the potential changes being considered include defining temporary event tents and providing standards for the use of temporary event tents. Following is information specific to the second public hearing:

Application No.: PZ 22-12

Petitioner: Village of Riverside

Proposed Text Amendments: Various changes to the Village of Riverside Zoning Ordinance regulations.

Affected sections include, but may not be limited to, Section 10-6-3 (Temporary Uses), Section 10-7-3 (Accessory Structures and Uses), and Section 10-11-4 (Other Terms Defined). Among the potential changes being considered include defining temporary event tents and providing standards for the use of temporary event tents.

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

The public hearings may be continued from time to time without further notice, except as otherwise required under the Illinois Open Meetings Act. The proposed text amendments may be added to, revised, altered, or eliminated as a result of the public hearings and prior to final action by the Board of Trustees of the Village of Riverside.

Dated this 7th day of December, 2022.

Jill

Districts), which states that fences and walls shall be prohibited in street yards, except where the street yard adjoins a nonresidential use or along 26th Street, 31st Street or York Road, subject to further review by Village staff.

The above application is available for inspection at the office of the Village Clerk, 27 Riverside Road, Riverside, Illinois 60546. During the Public Hearing the Planning and Zoning Commission will hear testimony from and consider any evidence presented by persons interested to speak on these matters. Persons wishing to appear at this hearing may do so in person or by attorney or other representative and may speak for or against the proposed variations.

Communications in writing in relation thereto may be filed at such hearing or with the Planning and Zoning Commission in advance by submission to Village Planner Anne Cyran via email at acyran@riverside.il.us or delivered to the attention of Village Planner Anne Cyran at the Village Offices at 27 Riverside Road, Riverside, Illinois prior to 4:00 p.m. on the day of the public hearing.

The Public Hearing may be continued from time to time without further notice, except as otherwise required under the Illinois Open Meetings Act.

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

Dated this 7th day of December, 2022.

Jill Mateo, Chairperson Planning & Zoning Commission

Published in RB Landmark December 7, 2022

Mateo, Chairperson

Planning & Zoning Commission

Published in RB Landmark December 7, 2022

PUBLIC NOTICE

VILLAGE OF RIVERSIDE, ILLINOIS NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING

Notice is hereby given to all interested persons that a public hearing before the Planning and Zoning Commission of the Village of Riverside will be held on Wednesday, December 28, 2022 at 7:00 p.m., or as soon thereafter as the business of the Planning and Zoning Commission may permit, to consider an application for a variation from Section 10-7-3(F)2(a) (Fence and Wall Location in Residential Districts) of the Village of Riverside Zoning Ordinance. The variation is sought to build a 5-foot tall aluminum fence that would encroach approximately 57 feet into the Woodside Road street yard for a length of approximately 84 feet. The subject property is in the R1-AA Single-Family Residence District.

Application No.: PZ22-13

Petitioners: Michael and Tawny Gecan

Property commonly known as: 148 Maplewood Road

PIN: 15-35-203-038-0000

Variation:

The variation sought includes, but may not be limited to, a variation from the following section of the Riverside Zoning Ordinance: a variation from Section 10-7-3(F)2(a) (Fence and Wall Location in Residential

PUBLIC NOTICES PUBLIC NOTICES PUBLIC NOTICES

PUBLIC NOTICE OF INTENT TO REQUEST RELEASE OF FUNDS

On December 22, 2022 the Village of Oak Park will request the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) to release federal funds under Title of the Housing and Community Development Act of 1974 (PL 93383), as amended, for various activities pursuant to the Program Year (PY) 2022 Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) program.

The following activities will take place within the Village of Oak Park, Illinois at a total cost of $1,059,843: Water Line Improvements $50,000; Sidewalk Improvements $225,000; Alley Improvements $400,000; Street Resurfacing $384,843.

An Environmental Review Record covering CDBG programs has been made by the Village, which documents the environmental review of the activities. This Environmental Review Record (ERR) is on file at the Village of Oak Park, 123 Madison Street, Oak Park, IL 60302 and is available for public examination and copying upon request from December 7, 2022 to December 22, 2022, 5 p.m. The ERR is also available on the HUD Environmental Review Online System (HEROS) at: https://cpd.hud.gov/cpd-public/ environmental-reviews. Any individual, group, or agency may submit written comments on the ERR to the Village of Oak Park, 123 Madison Street, Oak Park, IL 60302 or via: email at grants@oakpark.us. All comments received by December 22, 2022, 5 p.m. will be considered by the Village of Oak Park prior to authorizing submission of a request for release of funds.

The Village of Oak Park will undertake the activities described above with grant funds from HUD, under PL 93-383. The Village of Oak Park and Kevin J. Jackson in his official capacity as Village Manager, and Tammie Grossman, in her official capacity as Development Customer Services Director, consent to accept the jurisdiction of the Federal courts if an action is brought to enforce responsibilities in relation to environmental reviews, decisionmaking, and action, and that these responsibilities have been satisfied. The legal effect of the certification is that upon its approval, the Village may use the grant funds, and HUD will have satisfied its responsibilities under the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969.

HUD will accept objections to its release of funds and the Village of Oak Park’s certification for a period of fifteen days following the anticipated submission date or its actual receipt of the request (whichever is later) only if they are on one of the following bases: (a) the certification was not executed by the Certifying Officer of the Village of Oak Park; (b) the Village of Oak Park has omitted a step or failed to make a decision or finding required by HUD regulations at 24 CFR part 58; (c) the grant recipient or other participants in the development process have committed funds, incurred costs or undertaken activities not authorized by 24 CFR Part 58 before approval of a release of funds by HUD; or (d) another Federal agency acting pursuant to 40 CFR Part 1504 has submitted a written finding that the project is unsatisfactory from the standpoint

of environmental quality. Objections must be prepared and submitted in accordance with the required procedures (24 CFR Part 58, Sec. 58.76) and shall be addressed to HUD at 77 West Jackson Blvd., Chicago, Illinois 60604. Potential objectors should contact HUD at 77 West Jackson Blvd., Chicago, Illinois 60604 to verify the actual last day of the objection period.

Notice is also given that CDBG Tier 1 Broad Reviews were conducted for the following proposed projects in low- and moderate-income areas: Village of Oak Park Public Works Infrastructure construction projects (4) that will: 1) make water line improvements; 2) make sidewalk improvements in accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act standards; 3) replace deteriorated public alleys; and 4) resurface deteriorated streets. Tier 2 Site Specific Reviews will be completed for those laws and authorities not addressed in the Tier 1 Broad Reviews for each address under the Oak Park CDBG program when addresses become known.

The specific locations within the Village of Oak Park are not yet determined for the above proposed Tiered Activities. Tier 2 Site Specific Reviews will be completed (which include laws and authorities not addressed within the Tier 1 Broad Reviews) for each individual address under the Oak Park CDBG program when addresses become known.

LEGAL NOTICE

The Village of Oak Park will re ceive proposals from qualified architectural engineering firms to provide professional architec tural and/or engineering services on an as-needed task-order ba sis throughout 2023. Proposals will be accepted until 2:00 p.m. local time on Friday, December 30th, 2022.

Request for Qualifications for Professional Architectural Engineering Services for

The Village of Oak Park

RFQ forms may be obtained by calling 708-358-5710 or by e-mailing vics@oak-park.us be tween the hours of 7:30 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. M-F. The Village of Oak Park reserves the right to issue proposal documents and specifications only to those firms deemed qualified. No proposal documents will be issued after 4:00 p.m. on the working day preceding the date of proposal opening.

THE VILLAGE OF OAK PARK

Published in Wednesday Journal December 7, 2022

7, 2022

Published in Wednesday Journal, December

Kevin J. Jackson, Village Manager, and Tammie Grossman, Development Customer Services Director, Certifying Officers

REAL ESTATE FOR SALE REAL ESTATE FOR SALE REAL ESTATE FOR SALE

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

CASCADE FUNDING MORTGAGE TRUST HB5 Plaintiff, -v.-

UNKNOWN HEIRS AT LAW AND LEGATEES OF WILLIE L. ADAMS, DONNY ADAMS A/K/A DONALD ADAMS, THE SECRETARY OF HOUSING AND URBAN DEVELOPMENT, ILLINOIS DEPARTMENT OF CHILDREN AND FAMILY SERVICES, THOMAS QUINN, AS SPECIAL REPRESENTATIVE OF THE ESTATE OF WILLIE L. ADAMS, UNKNOWN OWNERS AND NON-RECORD CLAIMANTS

Defendants 2021 CH 05255 806 S. TAYLOR AVENUE OAK PARK, IL 60304

NOTICE OF SALE

PUBLIC NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale entered in the above cause on September 23, 2022, an agent for The Judicial Sales Corporation, will at 10:30 AM on January 5, 2023, at The Judicial Sales Corporation, One South Wacker, 1st Floor Suite 35R, Chicago, IL, 60606, sell at a public sale to the highest bidder, as set forth below, the following described real estate:

Commonly known as 806 S. TAYLOR AVENUE, OAK PARK, IL 60304

Property Index No. 16-17-129-0050000; 16-17-129-006-0000

The real estate is improved with a single family residence.

The judgment amount was $470,390.58.

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

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

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

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

sure sale other than a mortgagee shall pay the assessments required by The Condominium Property Act, 765 ILCS 605/18.5(g-1).

IF YOU ARE THE MORTGAGOR (HOMEOWNER), YOU HAVE THE RIGHT TO REMAIN IN POSSESSION FOR 30 DAYS AFTER ENTRY OF AN ORDER OF POSSESSION, IN ACCORDANCE WITH SECTION 15-1701(C) OF THE ILLINOIS MORTGAGE FORECLOSURE LAW.

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

For information, contact JOHNSON, BLUMBERG & ASSOCIATES, LLC

Plaintiff’s Attorneys, 30 N. LASALLE STREET, SUITE 3650, Chicago, IL, 60602 (312) 541-9710. Please refer to file number 21 8680.

THE JUDICIAL SALES CORPORATION

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

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

JOHNSON, BLUMBERG & ASSOCIATES, LLC 30 N. LASALLE STREET, SUITE 3650 Chicago IL, 60602 312-541-9710

E-Mail: ilpleadings@johnsonblumberg.com Attorney File No. 21 8680 Attorney Code. 40342 Case Number: 2021 CH 05255 TJSC#: 42-3674

NOTE: Pursuant to the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act, you are advised that Plaintiff’s attorney is deemed to be a debt collector attempting to collect a debt and any information obtained will be used for that purpose. Case # 2021 CH 05255 I3208368

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF COOK COUNTY, ILLINOIS COUNTY DEPARTMENT - CHANCERY DIVISION Nationstar Mortgage LLC Plaintiff, vs.

UNKNOWN HEIRS AND LEGATEES OF LACEY WILLIAMS AKA LACEY A. WILLIAMS; ARTIST SQUARE CONDOMINIUM ASSOCIATION; OLIVE MARIE RIVERA, A MINOR, BY LANGSTON WILLIAMS, JR. AND ALTHEA WILLIAMS, HER GRANDPARENTS AND NEXT FRIENDS; ALTHEA WILLIAMS; LANGSTON WILLIAMS, JR.; JULIE FOX AS SPECIAL REPRESENTATIVE OF LACEY WILLIAMS AKA LACEY A. WILLIAMS; UNKNOWN OWNERS AND NONRECORD CLAIMANTS; Defendants, 21 CH 5815

NOTICE OF SALE

PUBLIC NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale entered in the above entitled cause Intercounty Judicial Sales Corporation will on Monday, January 9, 2023 at the hour of 11 a.m. in their office at 120 West Madison Street, Suite 718A, Chicago, Illinois, sell at public auction to the highest bidder for cash, as set forth below, the following described mortgaged real estate: P.I.N. 16-07-323-055-1011.

Commonly known as 1041 Susan Collins Lane, Unit 304, Oak Park, IL 60302.

The mortgaged real estate is improved with a condominium residence. The purchaser of the unit other than a mortgagee shall pay the assessments and the legal fees required by subdivisions (g)(1) and (g) (4) of Section 9 of the Condominium Property Act

Sale terms: 10% down by certified funds, balance, by certified funds, within 24 hours. No refunds. The property will NOT be open for inspection.

For information call Law Clerk at Plaintiff’s Attorney, The Wirbicki Law Group, 33 West Monroe Street, Chicago, Illinois 60603. (312) 360-9455.

W20-0232 ADC

INTERCOUNTY JUDICIAL SALES CORPORATION intercountyjudicialsales.com I3208202

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF COOK COUNTY, ILLINOIS COUNTY DEPARTMENT - CHANCERY DIVISION THE BANK OF NEW YORK MELLON F/K/A THE BANK OF NEW YORK, AS TRUSTEE FOR THE CERTIFICATEHOLDERS OF THE CWALT, INC., ALTERNATIVE LOAN TRUST 2007-23CB MORTGAGE

PASS-THROUGH CERTIFICATES, SERIES 2007-23CB Plaintiff, -v.-

RORY L VALENTINE, JPMORGAN CHASE BANK, NA, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA, UNKNOWN OWNERS AND NONRECORD CLAIMANTS

Defendants 2022 CH 05449 1178 S SCOVILLE AVE OAK PARK, IL 60304

NOTICE OF SALE

PUBLIC NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale entered in the above cause on October 5, 2022, an agent for The Judicial Sales Corporation, will at 10:30 AM on January 13, 2023, at The Judicial Sales Corporation, One South Wacker, 1st Floor Suite 35R, Chicago, IL, 60606, sell at a public sale to the highest bidder, as set forth below, the following described real estate:

Commonly known as 1178 S SCOVILLE AVE, OAK PARK, IL 60304 Property Index No. 16-18-427-0150000

The real estate is improved with a single family residence.

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

REAL ESTATE FOR SALE REAL ESTATE FOR SALE REAL ESTATE FOR SALE REAL ESTATE FOR SALE

and in “AS IS” condition. The sale is further subject to confirmation by the court.

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

Where a sale of real estate is made to satisfy a lien prior to that of the United States, the United States shall have one year from the date of sale within which to redeem, except that with respect to a lien arising under the internal revenue laws the period shall be 120 days or the period allowable for redemption under State law, whichever is longer, and in any case in which, under the provisions of section 505 of the Housing Act of 1950, as amended (12 U.S.C. 1701k), and subsection (d) of section 3720 of title 38 of the United States Code, the right to redeem does not arise, there shall be no right of redemption.

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

If this property is a condominium unit, the purchaser of the unit at the foreclosure sale, other than a mortgagee, shall pay the assessments and the legal fees required by The Condominium Property Act, 765 ILCS 605/9(g) (1) and (g)(4). If this property is a condominium unit which is part of a common interest community, the purchaser of the unit at the foreclosure sale other than a mortgagee shall pay the assessments required by The Condominium Property Act, 765 ILCS 605/18.5(g-1).

IF YOU ARE THE MORTGAGOR (HOMEOWNER), YOU HAVE THE RIGHT TO REMAIN IN POSSESSION FOR 30 DAYS AFTER ENTRY OF AN ORDER OF POSSESSION, IN ACCORDANCE WITH SECTION 15-1701(C) OF THE ILLINOIS MORTGAGE FORECLOSURE LAW.

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

For information, examine the court file, CODILIS & ASSOCIATES, P.C. Plaintiff’s Attorneys, 15W030 NORTH FRONTAGE ROAD, SUITE 100, BURR RIDGE, IL, 60527 (630) 7949876

THE JUDICIAL SALES CORPORATION

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

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

CODILIS & ASSOCIATES, P.C. 15W030 NORTH FRONTAGE ROAD, SUITE 100 BURR RIDGE IL, 60527 630-794-5300

E-Mail: pleadings@il.cslegal.com Attorney File No. 14-22-04053 Attorney ARDC No. 00468002 Attorney Code. 21762

Case Number: 2022 CH 05449

TJSC#: 42-3886

NOTE: Pursuant to the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act, you are advised that Plaintiff’s attorney is deemed to be a debt collector attempting to collect a debt and any information obtained will be used for that purpose.

Case # 2022 CH 05449 I3208571

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF COOK COUNTY, ILLINOIS COUNTY DEPARTMENT - CHANCERY DIVISION TOWD POINT MORTGAGE TRUST 2016-4 US BANK NATIONAL ASSOCIATION AS INDENTURE TRUSTEE; Plaintiff, vs. UNITED STATES OF AMERICA FOR THE BENEFIT OF THE INTERNAL REVENUE SERVICE; ERIC STARKS, JUSTIN STARKS, ILLINOIS DEPARTMENT OF REVENUE WILMINGTON SAVINGS FUND SOCIETY FSB, NOT IN ITS INDIVIDUAL CAPACITY BUT SOLELY AS OWNER TRUSTEE OF THE ASPEN G3 TRUST, A DELAWARE STATUTORY TRUST; UNKNOWN OWNERS, GENERALLY AND NONRECORD CLAIMANTS; Defendants, 22 CH 5335

NOTICE OF SALE

PUBLIC NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale entered in the above entitled cause Intercounty Judicial Sales Corporation will on Wednesday, January 4, 2023 at the hour of 11 a.m. in their office at 120 West Madison Street, Suite 718A, Chicago, Illinois, sell at public auction to the highest bidder for cash, as set forth below, the following described mortgaged real estate: P.I.N. 16-06-222-018-0000. Commonly known as 464 Lenox Street, Oak Park, IL 60302. The mortgaged real estate is improved with a single family residence. If the subject mortgaged real estate is a unit of a common interest community, the purchaser of the unit other than a mortgagee shall pay the assessments required by subsection (g-1) of Section 18.5 of the Condominium Property Act. Sale terms: 10% down by certified funds, balance, by certified funds, within 24 hours. No refunds. The property will NOT be open for inspection.

For information call Mr. Matthew C. Abad at Plaintiff’s Attorney, Kluever Law Group, 225 West Washington Street, Chicago, Illinois 60606. (312) 236-0077. SPS001394-22FC1

INTERCOUNTY JUDICIAL SALES CORPORATION intercountyjudicialsales.com I3207850

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF COOK COUNTY, ILLINOIS COUNTY DEPARTMENT - CHANCERY DIVISION WELLS FARGO BANK NA AS TRUSTEE FOR WAMU MORTGAGE PASS THROUGH CERTIFICATES SERIES 2005-PR1 TRUST; Plaintiff, vs. MARY WOLFE; JPMORGAN CHASE BANK NATIONAL ASSOCIATION FKA WASHINGTON MUTUAL BANK, FA; CITY OF CHICAGO, A MUNICIPAL CORPORATION; UNKNOWN OWNERS AND NONRECORD CLAIMANTS; Defendants, 19 CH 10876

NOTICE OF SALE

PUBLIC NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale entered in the above entitled cause Intercounty Judicial Sales Corporation will on Tuesday, January 3, 2023 at the hour of 11 a.m. in their office at 120 West Madison Street, Suite 718A, Chica-

go, Illinois, sell at public auction to the highest bidder for cash, as set forth below, the following described mortgaged real estate: P.I.N. 16-17-331-015-0000.

Commonly known as 1028 South Austin Boulevard, Oak Park, IL 60304.

The mortgaged real estate is improved with a single family residence. If the subject mortgaged real estate is a unit of a common interest community, the purchaser of the unit other than a mortgagee shall pay the assessments required by subsection (g-1) of Section 18.5 of the Condominium Property Act.

Sale terms: 10% down by certified funds, balance, by certified funds, within 24 hours. No refunds. The property will NOT be open for inspection.

For information call Sales Department at Plaintiff’s Attorney, Manley Deas Kochalski, LLC, One East Wacker Drive, Chicago, Illinois 60601. (614) 220-5611. 21-009135

F2 INTERCOUNTY JUDICIAL SALES CORPORATION intercountyjudicialsales.com I3207815

EQUAL HOUSING OPPORTUNITY

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

e Illinois Human Rights Act prohibits discrimination in the sale, rental or advertising of real estate based on factors in addition to those protected under federal law.

is newspaper will not knowingly accept any advertising for real estate which is in violation of the law. All persons are hereby informed that all dwellings advertised are available on an equal opportunity basis.

Restrictions or prohibitions of pets do not apply to service animals.

To complain of discrimination, call HUD toll free at: 1-800669-9777.

GROWING COMMUNITY MEDIA

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

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

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

A safe & smart choice.

A safe & smart choice.

A safe & smart choice.

Choosing a community you can trust has never been more difficult. Our community has an impeccable record of safety during the COVID-19 crisis and we will stop at nothing to make sure it continues.

Choosing a community you can trust has never been more difficult. Our community has an impeccable record of safety during the COVID-19 crisis and we will stop at nothing to make sure it continues.

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

Choosing a community you can trust has never been more important. Our community has an impeccable record of safety during the COVID-19 crisis and we will stop at nothing to make sure it continues. We would be honored for your family to be part of ours.

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

Immediate availability in our Memory Care Assisted Living Small House 99% OF OUR CALEDONIA STAFF IS VACCINATED

For Holida shopping, go local

Iguess it's official - the holidays are here, and the shopping season is well under way! How lucky are we to live in Villages brimming with small indie businesses, where you know the owner, where they remember your re gular order or know your whole family; where your kids go to school together. Or better yet, where they hired your kids for their first job (we all remember our first job!). So, as you think about your gift-giving list this year, just remember that so many of the people who own businesses in this community, also live here, are raising families here and are striving to make a better life here. In supporting a local business, you are supporting your neighbors, your friends, your Village, your community. So keep your spending dollars local - it helps everyone!

Holiday events

Dec ember 7-31

Breakfast With Santa

Saturday, Dec. 10, 9 a.m. - 12 p.m., Trinity High School

Santa himself will share a continental breakfast with the kids and the parents. There will also be crafts for the kids, as well as the chance to be photographed with Mr. Claus. $7 children, $14 adults, 7574 Division St., River Forest

Cookies & Cocoa

With Santa

Saturday Dec. 10, 10 a.m. - 12:30 p.m., Nineteenth Century Club Cookies, cocoa and Claus - what more do you need? A camera so you can take pictures! You can also shop for arts and crafts. $5 per person, $20 per family. 178 Forest Ave., Oak Park.

Jazz For The Holidays with Tony Morrison

Thursday, Dec. 8, 7 p.m., Pleasant Home Foundation

Seasonal sounds from one of the Chicago area's most talented musicians. Light snacks and two drink tickets will be provided. $30 - $39, 217 Home Ave., Oak Park.

VIRTUAL: An Olde-Fashioned New England Christmas

Wednesday, Dec. 14, 7 p.m.

Ac tor Joshua Kane will read classic holiday tales from the pens of O'Henr y, Dickens, Frost and others.

Suggested donation: $10. Register via the Dominican niversity website.

Joy To The World: A Christmas Musical Journey with Damien Sneed

Sunday, Dec. 11, 4 p.m., Dominican University

Singer-keyboardist Sneed will celebrate the season with unique takes on a wide assortment of holiday standards, plus a few originals. Tickets star ting at $28, 7900 W. Division St., River Forest.

Sing We Joyous 2022

Saturday, Dec. 10, 7:30 p.m.; Sunday, Dec, 11, 4:30 p.m., First United Church of Oak Park

For the 17th year, the acapella Oriana Singers, City Voices, the Pro Music Youth Chorus and the Sing We Joyous Orchestra present a stirring stunning program of holiday music. $30 (free for 18 and under), 848 Lake St., Oak Park.

The Free Readers Ensemble Presents: A Musical Holiday Show

Sunday, Dec. 18, 3 p.m.,

Nineteenth Century Charitable Association

The Free Readers Ensemble will be sharing memories of the holiday songs they sang and the stories that inspired them. Feel free to reminisce and sing along. 178 Forest Ave., Oak Park.

Holiday Spectacular presented by

Saturday, Dec. 17, 11a.m.-4 p.m., Stern Glass Works and Great Sip Cafe

Presented by Stern Glass Works and Great Sip Cafe. Shop from 10 local artisans with Handmade Goods: Spanning glass arts, wood, paper arts, photography, jewelr y, culinary arts, soaps and comics. Ra e throughout the event with one piece from each artisan and donations from local businesses. Ra e tickets: 2 for $5, 5 for $10, 15 for $20. 100% of the pro ts from the ra e will be donated to Beyond Hunger. Stern Glass Works: 817 S. Oak Park Ave., Great Sip Cafe: 818 S. Oak Park Ave.

VIRTUAL: Third Annual Christmas Cèilidh

Thursday, Dec. 22, 7:30 p.m. - 8:35 p.m., Pilgrim Congregational Church A cèilidh (chay-lid), originated in Ireland and Scotland, is a social gathering built around stories and music and games—a per fect setting for a virtual holiday get-together hosted by Gatherers on both sides of the Atlantic. Join Zoom Meeting: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/85059416733

Meeting ID: 850 5941 6733

Or dial 1-312-626-6799 using the same meeting ID.

Community Kwanzaa Celebration

Thursday, Dec. 29, 5 - 8 p.m., Oak Park Public Library This annual feast of African-American culture will be celebrated with this special event. 834 Lake St., Oak Park.

Holiday Spectacular presented by

Lloyd Wright’s Home and Studio Museum Shop

Holiday Spectacular presented by

Holiday

Holiday Joy! Music & Dance Extravaganza

Friday, Dec. 16, 7:30 - 9:00 p.m., Unity Temple

The Apollo Chorus of Chicago will be joined by the Dance Avondale Collective and the Academy of the Music Institute of Chicago for interpretations of enduring holiday works. $20-$30, 875 Lake St., Oak Park.

Open

House at Cheney Mansion

Wednesday, Dec. 21, 3:00-8 p.m., Cheney Mansion

Come and view the beautiful holiday decorations at Cheney Mansion. A suggested $2 donation or nonperishable food item is requested for entry. This is a drop-in program. 220 N. Euclid Ave., Oak Park.

Paper Snow akes

Wednesday Dec. 7, 3 p.m., Oak Park Public Library To many people, the holidays aren't the holidays without a little snow. This event helps you invoke that spirit by learning to make fun paper snow akes. Feel free to take your creations home or help cover the library windows with snow. Best for grades 2+. The presenters prefer you wear masks in this event. Masks will be available. 834 Lake St., Oak Park.

Elf The Musical, Jr.

Thursday, Dec. 15, 7 p.m.; Friday, Dec. 16, 7 p.m.; Saturday, Dec. 17, 7 p.m.; Sunday, Dec. 18, 1 p.m. and 5 p.m., Madison Street Theater

The holiday lm Elf will be recreated live with an allages cast from 8-11 (plus selected adults). $8 children, $14 adults, 1010 Madison St., Oak Park.

C ONTINUED ON PA GE B1 6

Home For The Holidays

Saturday, Dec. 17, 11 a.m. - 4 p.m., downtown Oak Park

The community comes alive in celebration with this all-day esta. From 11 am - 3 am, there will be all-day sleigh rides on Marion St., around Lake St. and Forest Ave. From 12 pm - 3 am, you can try di erent avors of hot cocoa during the Hot Chocolate Walk, with free 4 oz. cups from participating businesses. Kids of all ages can visit with Santa Claus from 1 to 4 pm. Weather permitting, there will be continuous entertainment from Pro Musica Youth Chorus, Heritage Chorale and the Canterbury Carolers. Lake and Marion Streets, Oak Park.

Letters to Santa

Through Dec. 21, Oak Park Conser vator y Drop o your letters to Santa in the Oak Park Conser va tory's Santa Express mailbox located in the Rubenstein Garden. 615 Gar eld St, Oak Park.

Make Your Own

Gingerbread House

VIRTUAL & IN- PERSON: Symphony of Oak Park & River Forest

Sunday, December 11, 4 pm., Concordia University

The works of Schumann and Sibelius will be performed. Piano Concer to, soloist Mio Nakamura. $27 - $30 inperson, $20 online (college students admitted free of charge). Go to SymphonyOPRF.org to order tickets. 7400 Augusta St., River Forest.

Saturday, Dec. 10, 11 a.m.-1 p.m. or 2-4 p.m., Pleasant Home

Grab your family and purchase a table at beautiful Pleasant Home to decorate your own Holiday Gingerbread House. You will receive tips, tricks and all the treats you need to make a sweet cottage or a fancy McMansion for the Holidays! Light lunch provided. Once nished pose for a family sel e in the Great Hall of Pleasant Home. Parents or Guardians must accompany children. 15 tables available with up to 6 family members per table. Register at pdop.org/register, 217 Home Avenue, Oak Park.

Gallery/ Art Studio

A Charlie Brown Christmas/How The Grinch Stole Christma s

Friday, Dec. 9, 6:30 p.m.

Two memorable holiday cartoons will be shown tonight on FitzGerald's "little theater screen." Charlie Brown, meet Dr Seuss face to face. 6615 Roosevelt Road, Berw yn.

Home Alone

Friday, Dec. 16, 6:30 p.m.

A ve ry young Macaulay Culkin accidentally gets lef at home by his parents during the Christmas holida Hilarity ensues, especially after burglars ente the pic ture. 6615 Roosevelt Road, Berw yn.

Viewing Part y: It's A Wonderful Life

Monday, Dec. 12 and 19, 7 p.m.,

FitzGerald's

This classic holiday movie is so important that it will be shown on three screens. 6615 Roosevelt Road, Berw yn.

A Muppet Christmas Carol

Thursday, Dec. 22, 6:30 p.m., FitzGerald's The holidays, as seen through the eyes of Kermit, Miss Piggy and the rest of the Muppet gang. 6615 Roosevelt Road, Berw yn.

A Christmas St

Holiday Spectacular presented by

The Redmonds Holiday Show

Friday, Dec. 16, 8 p.m., FitzGerald's This local band wraps their traditional Americana sound in ashy Christmas lights for this special holiday show. $15, 6615 Roosevelt Road, Berwyn.

Oak Park Area Association of REALTORS(R) Holiday Bazaar

Saturday, Dec. 10, 1-5 p.m., The Sheridan at River Forest

Join us for the 8th annual Holiday Bazaar hosted by the Oak Park River Forest Area Association of Realtors. Get some shopping done early this holiday season and enjoy the music and other festivities. Proceeds from the Bazaar directly bene t Beyond Hunger. 800 N. Harlem Ave, River Forest.

Rock & Roll Under The Mistletoe: JP & Jenny & the Flames with Miss Barbara Cli ord and the Shakin' Tailfeathers

Saturday, Dec. 17, 8 p.m., Outta Space

Two local roots-rockabilly acts deck the halls and par ty all night. $10, 6840 32nd St., Berwyn.

Winter Greens Market

Wednesday, Dec. 7 through Sunday, Dec. 18, 10 a.m. - 4 p.m., Oak Park Conser vatory Looking for the right kind of shrubbery to decorate the halls? The Winter Greens Market will provide all kinds of balsam, r, boxwood, winter berries, magnolia tips, spruce tops and related. 615 Gar eld St., Oak Park.

C ONTINUED ON PA GE B2 3

Holiday Spectacular

The Monday Enrichment Series Presents: Singers From The Lyric Celebrate The Season

Monday, Dec. 19, 1:15 p.m., Nineteenth Century Club Five Lyric Opera artists get together and sing songs of the holidays: David Govertsen (bass-baritione), Corinne Crane (mezzo-soprano); Kimberly Jones (soprano); John Concepcion (tenor) and Noah Lindquist (piano). 178 Forest Ave., Oak Park.

Ron's Very Special Christmas Special

Chicago Choral Ar tists: HOLIDAY CONCERT

Emerging Life, Excelling Light

Saturday, Dec. 17 at 7:30 p.m.; Sunday, Dec. 18 at 4:00 p.m., Grace Lutheran Church Chicago Choral Artists, under the direction of Michael D. Costello, presents Emerging Life, Excelling Light: beautiful choral music for the holidays. The concert is a blend of traditional choral works, anthems by contemporary American composers and Baroque cantatas with chamber orchestra. Performed in the warmth of candlelight the performance emphasizes themes of light and life. Tickets available in advance or at the door: Adult $45, Senior $40, Student $25., 7300 West Division, River Forest. www.chicagochoralartists.org or call 773-658-9799.

Thursday, Dec. 8, 8 p.m., FitzGerald's Ron Lazzeretti calls himself "Mr. Christmas," and it's evident this man knows how to par ty. He describes this annual presentation as a three -way cross between Prarie Home Companion, Pee Wee's Playhouse and any random Andy Williams Christmas special. Along for the ride will be an array of per formers including Dag Juhlin, Rachel Drew, The Famous Brothers, Cayne Collier, Mike The Dentist, and much, much more. All will be backed by the Downsized Elves, who are the evening's house band. If he feels like it, Santa Claus himself might show up, too. $20, 6615 Roosevelt Road, Berw yn.

Anderson Family Holiday Jamboree

Friday, Dec. 23, 8 p.m., FitzGerald's Billed as "a night of music, family, friends and good cheer," the event will be supporting Share Our Spare, a community resource designed to help families in need. The following items can be donated: diapers (particularly sied 4-pullups), wipes, bottles, diaper cream and other baby hygiene items, and new and gently used winter coats, size 2T - 7/8. For more information please visit https://shareourspare.org. 6615 Roosevelt Road, Berwyn.

The shop where people with/ without disabilities work together to craft handmade pies using locally sourced ingredients and sustainable practices. Check us out for sweet and savory pies, special orders possible, party/ wedding catering, and gift cards.

Tuesday-Friday. 11:30am-6pm Saturday 11:30am - 5pm Sunday-Monday closed.

Holiday Music for Chorus and Orchestra In

River Forest

Holiday Spectacular

BY MELISSA ELSMO, OAK PARK EATS EDITOR

No matter if you are looking for something SPICY, COZY or FESTIVE to break up a day of local shopping there are dishes to satisfy any craving in our communities. Discover a dish that feels like a gift and pick your perfect winter warm up.

• COZY • FESTIVE

Coliflor -Amerikas, Oak Park:

The pristine combination of cauliflower, carrots, farro, almonds, and Manchego cheese with hibiscus arbol reduction is a timeless dish in our community. The vegetarian delight makes any meal feel more like a special occasion — subtle spice will warm you from the inside out.

A slice of olive oil cake -Broken Tart, Oak Park:

Savor the art of subtle when you warm up in Oak Park’s newest bakery. Indulge in a slice of cake and a cup of coffee with whole milk to give you all those cozy Oak Park feels!

Pizza in a bag -Bertolli’s, River Forest:

Frank Bertolli grew up in the pizza business and River Forest is better for it. Their classic pies are a thin crust pizza lover’s dream. Ripping open the bag is just as good as opening a holiday present -- a gift with ooey gooey cheese!

SPICY

Holiday Spectacular presented by

Winter

WarmUps

BY MELISSA ELSMO, OAK PARK EATS EDITOR

SPICY • COZY • FESTIVE

A trio of spicy Meatballs — Betty’s Pizza and Pasta, Oak Park:

The pizza parlor known for serving up foldable slices of New York Style pies also makes some spicy housemade meatballs capable of warming you up on a winter day. They make a perfect side to a cheese topped pizza.

The Obvious -The Daly Bagel, Oak Park:

Folks line up daily for these East Coast style beauties, and bagel maven, Amanda Daly and her team clearly know how to pile lox, cream cheese, onions, and capers on a bagel. This classic combo will make you feel all warm and fuzzy inside.

Mochi Donuts — Poke Burrito, Oak Park:

As decorative as they are delicious, the mochi donuts served up at Poke Burrito look like they could hang from a holiday tree. Treat yourself to a trendy ring next time you visit downtown Oak Park.

*All selections were made at the discretion of Eats staff.

Winter

WarmUps

BY MELISSA ELSMO, OAK PARK EATS EDITOR

A bounty of spicy fare — Kyber Pass, Oak Park:

Lovers of dainty pakora, orange-hued chicken tikka masala, and fluffy garlic naan bread have trusted Khyber Pass to satisfy their spicy food cravings for more than a quarter of a century. Warm up with a downtown Oak Park mainstay.

Pork Noodle Bowl -Habrae, Forest Park:

Piping hot pork served over noodles with loads of crunchy bitter greens and a few dumplings to spare — what could be more comforting that that? Expect a lot of textural variety in this piping hot bowl of Thai goodness.

Beets & Greens — Kettlestrings Grove, Oak Park:

Roasted beets, goat cheese mousse, pecan crumble, puffed quinoa, baby arugula and blood orange vinaigrette come together in a festive display — this sensible choice leaves plenty of room for a mid-shopping cocktail. Cheers!

*All selections were made at the discretion of Eats staff.

SPICY • COZY • FESTIVE

Winter

WarmUps

BY MELISSA ELSMO, OAK PARK EATS EDITOR

SPICY • COZY • FESTIVE

Avocado Toast -Kribi Coffee, Oak Park/ Forest Park:

A sprinkling of Aleppo pepper flakes brings a little pep to this protein packed breakfast. The chilies are only moderately hot and bring a subtle cumin-like flavor to this filling toast. Have it with a seasonal coffee drink to start your day off right!

A Rueben Sandwich -- Fritzi’s Delicatessen, Oak Park:

House-made, 14-day brined beef brisket makes this corned beef sandwich pretty unforgettable. Stacked up with Swiss cheese and sauerkraut enjoying this sandwich is like eating a big hug.

Sweet treats and holiday cheer -- River Forest Chocolates, River Forest:

Holiday Spectacular presented by

DECEMBER 2022

Programs are Open to the Public!

COOKIES & COCOA WITH SANTA

Cookies & Cocoa With Santa

DECEMBER 10, 10AM —12PM

$5/person, $20/family. Cookies, Cocoa, crafts, photos with Santa!

December 10, 10am - 12pm $5/person, $20/family. Cookies, Cocoa, cra s, photos with Santa!

December 12, 1:15 pm Social Science: Raised in the Shadow of the Party The daughter of community activist and Black Panther Party member Marion Nzinga” Stamps, educator and activist Tara Stamps will share how her upbringing shaped her life and why the Black Panther Party was an essential organization in the forward march of Black Liberation.

December 19, 1:15 pm —Music: Singers from the Lyric Celebrate the Season Celebrate the Holidays with a concert that will feature secular and sacred songs of the season and more. This program is presented by five fabulous Lyric Opera Artists: David Govertsen, Bass Baritone; Corinne Crane, Mezzo Soprano; Kimberly Jones, Soprano; John Concepcion, Tenor; and Noah Lindquist, Piano.

December 12, 1:15 pm

Social Science: Raised in the Shadow of the Party e daughter of community activist and Black Panther Party member Marion “Nzinga” Stamps, educator and activist Tara Stamps will share how her upbringing shaped her life and why the Black Panther Party was an essential organization in the forward march of Black Liberation.

178 Forest Ave., Oak Park, IL 60301 www.nineteenthcentury.org

DECEMBER 2022

Programs are Open to the Public!

COOKIES & COCOA WITH SANTA

December 19, 1:15 pm

DECEMBER 10, 10AM —12PM $5/person, $20/family. Cookies, Cocoa, crafts, photos with Santa!

December 12, 1:15 pm —Social Science: Raised in the Shadow of the Party The daughter of community activist and Black Panther Party member Marion “Nzinga” Stamps, educator and activist Tara Stamps will share how her upbringing shaped her life and why the Black Panther Party was an essential organization in the forward march of Black Liberation.

December 19, 1:15 pm Music: Singers from the Lyric Celebrate the Season Celebrate the Holidays with a concert that will feature secular and sacred songs of the season and more. This program is presented by five fabulous Lyric Opera

Music: Singers from the Lyric Celebrate the Season Celebrate the Holidays with a concert that will feature secular and sacred songs of the season and more. is program is presented by ve fabulous Lyric Opera Artists: David Govertsen, Bass-Baritone; Corinne Crane, MezzoSoprano; Kimberly Jones, Soprano; John Concepcion, Tenor; and Noah Lindquist, Piano.

Artists: David Govertsen, Bass Baritone; Corinne Crane, Mezzo Soprano; Kimberly Jones, Soprano; John Concepcion, Tenor; and Noah Lindquist, Piano. 178 Forest Ave., Oak Park, IL 60301 708 386 2729 www.nineteenthcentury.org

178 Forest Ave., Oak Park, IL 60301 708-386-2729 www.nineteenthcentury.org

Jeffrey D Hines, Agent

312 Madison Street

Oak Park, IL 60302 Business: 708-628-5100 jeffrey@hinesinsures.com www.hinesinsures.com

The BEST Compliment is your Referral

Like a good neighbor, State Farm is there.®

Tara Stamps

Kimberly Jones

Holiday Spectacular presented by

BY MELISSA ELSMO, OAK PARK EATS EDITOR

Tacos on handmade tortillas — Taco Mucho, Oak Park:

Taco Mucho menu items offer the perfect way to take the chill off a winter day in the Harrison Street Arts District. The small yet mighty taqueria has outstanding chef-driven salsas that add spice to every bite!

A diner-style

patty melt — Al’s Grill, Oak Park:

Few things feel quite as friendly and festive as a tried-and-true diner. Visit a classic on Madison Street in Oak Park and treat yourself to a traditional comfort food sandwich for some serious retro fun.

A mocha and a samosa — Wise Cup, Oak Park:

Savor some spice when you sip on Wise Cup’s perennially popular Mayan Mocha boasting dark chocolate and espresso with a dash of cinnamon and cayenne pepper. Pair the luscious drink with a handmade samosa for a perfect lunch unique to our Oak Park community.

*All selections were made at the discretion of Eats staff.

Winter

WarmUps

BY MELISSA ELSMO, OAK PARK EATS EDITOR

SPICY • COZY • FESTIVE

Slurp-worthy noodles — Kyuramen, Oak Park:

Curb a chill with a piping hot bowl of ramen noodles from Kyuramen. We ordered the Tokyo Tonkotsu Shouyu served with pork chashu, bamboo shoot, wakame, marinated Egg, nori, corn and scallion, but the shop has chicken and veggie options.

Ornamental looking dumplings — Na Siam, Oak Park:

New owners have kept the warming fare flowing in the North Avenue District and these dumplings are a delightful dim sum style delight. The delicious crab-filled morsels are bursting with flavor!

A Maine Lobster Roll — Poor Phil’s, Oak Park:

An east-coast mainstay makes an appearance in Oak Park. Served chilled the folks at Poor Phil’s add just a dash of wasabi mayo to give the indulgent sandwich some very subtle spice. Lobster lovers will appreciate the seaside vibes at this popular Pleasant District eatery.

*All selections were made at the discretion of Eats staff.

Holiday Spectacular presented by

One Month of Unlimited Classes

Give the Gift of Yoga this Holiday Season!

One Month of Unlimited Classes

Offer only available through December 31, 2022 and only atYogaSix Oak Park offer is applicable for first time visitors only!

Offer only available through December 31, 2022 and only atYogaSix Oak Park This offer is applicable for first time visitors only!

Call or stop by the studio TODAY!

Call or stop by the studio TODAY!

YogaSix Oak Park 1006 Lake Street Oak Park, IL60301 ~Steps away from the Lake Street Theater~ 708-328-3780 ** oakpark@yogasix.com

Lake Street Theater~

YogaSix Oak Park 1006 Lake Street Oak Park, IL60301 ~Steps away from the Lake Street Theater~ 708-328-3780 ** oakpark@yogasix.com

Follow us on Instagram and Facebook @ YogaSix_OakPark

Follow us on Instagram and Facebook @ YogaSix_OakPark

Holiday Spectacular

Wishing you a Joyful and Beautiful Holiday Season

Wishing you a Joyful and Beautiful Holiday Season

For over 37 years, Oak Park Apartments has been restoring and modernizing many of the area’s most beautiful and classic apartment buildings. In 2022, we welcomed over 800 new residents to the community. We are committed to making a home for them here in Oak Park and the near western suburbs.

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 1000 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.

The Answer

The Answer Inc., a 501(c) (3) not-for-profit organization, is dedicated to providing support, resources, education, recreation, and advocacy for families in the greater Chicago area that are challenged with supporting family members with Autism & Developmental Disorders. In addition to providing essential resources & services for parents and caregivers, our agency strives to help contribute to the continued growth, educational and recreational inclusion for the children and relatives specifically impacted. Learn more about The Answer at theanswerinc.org

Holiday Spectacular presented by

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. After 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

Beyond Hunger

For over 40 years Beyond Hunger has created solutions to end hunger at every stage of life. Our programs now include providing emergency food to families in need, summer meals for kids who lack them when school is out, connecting individuals to valuable benefits like SNAP (“food stamps”), conducting nutrition education and cooking classes to combat chronic illness, and delivering groceries to homebound older adults. Organization-wide we focus on health and nutrition. We provide food that families love, that nourishes and sustains.

To donate, visit GoBeyondHunger.org or send checks payable to Beyond Hunger, 848 Lake Street, Oak Park, IL 60301.

BUILD

Since 1969, BUILD has helped Chicago’s most vulnerable youth escape gangs and violence to become positive leaders in their communities. These young people face enormous obstacles and trauma, so we surround them with the counseling, mentoring, training, and opportunities they need to build a future and succeed. We engage youth at every stage, with specialized teams dedicated to street violence interventions, gang detachments, creative after-school programming, academic school and 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. Visit www.buildchicago.org

Cicero Independiente

News for the people by the people. Cicero Independiente is a bilingual news organization that investigates underreported issues, elevates stories of people in Cicero and holds the powerful accountable through community-rooted journalism. Donations help us pay local residents so that they can learn journalism skills and report on issues that matter to them. We foster and support civic participation and a sense of belonging in a community that has traditionally been divested in. We’re creating opportunities for more BIPOC storytellers and working collaboratively to make our town a better place to live.

Support community-rooted, bilingual journalism by making a contribution at https://donorbox.org/cicero-independiente.

The Coalition for Spiritual & Public Leadership

The Coalition for Spiritual & Public Leadership (CSPL) is a multi-racial, multi-ethnic, multi-generational spiritually-rooted organization that labors to transform racial, economic, social and environmental systemic structures through grassroots coalition building, community organizing, and liberative formation. CSPL is based in Maywood and works with community residents to bring about change and helps incubate worker cooperatives. To learn more or join our efforts, visit csplaction.org.

The Collaboration for Early Childhood

The Collaboration for Early Childhood turned twenty this year! Thank you for your two-decade-long commitment to striving towards a day where every young child has the care, relationships, and resources needed to thrive and to begin school safe, healthy, and empowered to succeed. We need your support to write the next chapter of our children’s success story. There is so much opportunity for our little ones just over the horizon. Consider setting a recurring donation to keep the good going all year long.

Learn more about our impact and make a donation 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.

D97 PTO Council and Diversity Council

Holiday Spectacular presented by

the academic, social-emotional, and physical development that leads to school readiness. You can help lay the foundation today for successful adults tomorrow.

To learn more about us and to donate, visit www.thedaynursery.org

Deborah’s Place

Deborah’s Place has opened doors of opportunity for women who are homeless 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. After 37 years of service, there is still a great need for Deborah’s Place. Women experiencing homelessness are still an underserved population. With donor support, unaccompanied women will achieve their goals and greater self-determination.

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

Defy Ventures Illinois

Equity and Transformation

Equity and Transformation’s (EAT) mission is to build social and economic equity for Black workers engaged in the informal economy: the diversified set of economic activities, enterprises, jobs, and workers that are not regulated or protected by the state. Our strategy seeks to empower individuals who know about the issues firsthand because they live them. Concretely, EAT makes space for Black informal workers to imagine new possibilities and empowers them with the tools to realize them.

Learn about how EAT ensures Black informal workers play essential roles in Illinois’ decision-making processes and about how you can support at: eatchicago. org.

Ernest Hemingway Foundation of Oak Park

The Frederick Law Olmsted Society of Riverside, IL

The entire Village of Riverside, designed by Frederick Law Olmsted in 1869, is a National Historic Landmark. For over 50 years, the dedicated members and volunteers of the non-profit Olmsted Society of Riverside have strived to preserve, protect, and promote its fascinating history, beautiful landscapes, and outstanding architecture through landscape workdays, educational programs, tours, and special events. This very special American place hosts visitors from around the world who come to experience its many charms, and to learn about Olmsted’s principles.

To learn more or to donate online, visit olmstedsociety.org or mail us at Olmsted Society, P.O. Box 65, Riverside, IL 60546.

The D97 PTO Council and Diversity Council (DIVCO) Angel Fund provides financial support to D97 students, prioritizing students whose families qualify for free or reduced lunch, as well as those who face socioeconomic or cultural barriers, so that all students have a fair chance to participate fully in their school communities. The Angel Fund ensures that all students have a fair opportunity to engage their best selves in academic activities, school events, and traditions, and that they have their essential needs met during the school day. Please donate to be part of our community of care.

Tax deductible donations can be sent via: Lincoln PTO

ATTN: D97 STUDENT ANGEL FUND 1111 S Grove Ave, Oak Park, IL 60304

The Day Nursery

Since 1912, The Day Nursery has provided exceptional early childhood education in an environment that welcomes all children, enhances individual strengths, and fosters

What if YOU were known for the worst thing you’ve ever done? Do you believe in second chances? Defy Ventures Illinois

shifts mindsets to give people with criminal histories their best shot at a second chance. Using entrepreneurship, career readiness, and

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. Your gift supports

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

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 Austin Weekly News, Wednesday Journal, Forest Park Review, Riverside-Brookfield Landmark and Village Free Press, 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

For over 125 years, Hephzibah has served vulnerable children and struggling families. Hephzibah Home, located in the heart of Oak Park, is where children receive intense therapeutic support to heal from extreme abuse and neglect and is the only program in Illinois designated to care for young children ages 3-11. Our Family Based program supports hundreds of foster care children and stabilizes families in crisis in the Chicago metro area. The after school and summer day camp program delivers quality, affordable care for over 500 elementary school children in Oak Park every year. Change a child’s life with us at hephzibahhome.org

The Historical Society of Forest Park

The Historical Society of Forest Park collects, preserves, and shares the rich heritage of Forest Park. Through history we explore the past to understand the present and shape the future. We offer experiences of history through events, displays, and programs. Virtual tours, presentations, and films about Forest Park are found on our website. They include Forest Park Amusement Park, Bloomer Girls, Veteran History, Haymarket Martyrs’ Monument, Cemetery Symbolism,

Holiday Spectacular presented by

and others. Our members support our mission and our programs including the Garden Walk, Prohibition Event, History Hangouts, bicycle tours, and weekly lookbacks to bring history to the community throughout the year.

Visit ForestParkHistory.org to become a member or to learn more about Forest Park

Housing Forward

Housing Forward is passionately focused on one vision – ending homelessness.

We believe in bold, comprehensive approaches to prevent homelessness whenever possible, respond to the housing crisis, and create stability through permanent housing. We offer a coordinated response that allows people experiencing a housing crisis to quickly resolve their situation. We offer comprehensive services including homelessness prevention, outreach and diversion, interim housing, medical respite, housing, and wraparound support. Last year, we served nearly 3,000 individuals and families with personalized support and services. Housing Forward also has programs that specifically address the housing needs of families, youth, and veterans.

To learn more, volunteer, or donate, visit housingforward.org, email development@ housingforward.org, or call 708.338.1724

Infant Welfare Society

Help us care for the whole child and create greater health equity! At the OPRF Infant Welfare Society and IWS Children’s Clinic, we serve publicly insured/uninsured children and address their whole health through sick and well child visits, dental care, behavioral health services, nutrition classes and other wrap-around programs. We treat more than 3,400 area children each year, including Oak Park, Chicago, Berwyn, Cicero and beyond. Support the whole health needs of children in our community today! $25 provides a mental health screening, $50 provides two vaccines, $100 provides a preventive dental cleaning.

Learn more and donate today at https:// childrenscliniciws.org/donate or 708-4068661.

L’Arche Chicago

L’Arche Chicago provides high quality care in community-integrated homes for adults with intellectual disabilities in the OPRF area. Our mission is lived through daily life shared in mutuality: afternoon walks to the park, doctor’s appointments, and dinner parties. Moreover, L’Arche is committed to life together in a way that welcomes difference. L’Arche Chicago is currently in the process of building a new ADA accessible home in South Oak Park that will extend this unique care model to four more adults with disabilities and address the accessibility needs of current members of the community. Whether you’d like to contribute a one-time gift, or commit to a lifetime of giving to L’Arche Chicago, every dollar will create a lasting impact in our community!

Make a needed local impact through our people and mission at www.larchechicago. org/larcheforlife

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 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 serves over 800 students ages 4 to 18 per week, the majority of whom are young people of color. MFA’s facilities anchor downtown Maywood. Families count on MFA’s safe, nurturing out-of-school time environment where children learn artistic and social skills and expand their worldviews.

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.

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

New Moms

New Moms’ mission is to strengthen families by partnering with young moms as they progress toward housing stability, economic mobility, and family well-being. We believe in the strength, skills, and potential of all families and envision a future where all young moms and their children thrive! Coaches in our housing, job training, and family support programs partner with moms, 24 and under, to decrease stress, build social connections, and set and track personalized goals. Together with their coach, moms build the foundations of long-term well-being for their families and communities. Join us in this essential work! www.newmoms.org/season

The Joyful Giving Catalog

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.

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 donation at nineteenthcentury.org.

Oak Park Art League

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.

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.

The Joyful Giving Catalog

Holiday Spectacular

Oak Park Public Library

Invest in Oak Park’s future. The Oak Park-River Forest Community Foundation

manages eight endowment funds for the Oak Park Public Library. Monetary donations are tax deductible. Giving to these funds connects people and builds community, educates global citizens, and sustains, shares, and respects Oak Park’s community resources.

Choose the fund that means the most to you at oppl.org/give. Or contact Director of Finance Jeremy Andrykowski at jeremya@ oppl.org.

Oak Park Regional Housing Center

Oak Park Regional Housing Center has a mission to achieve vibrant communities while promoting intentional and stable residential integration throughout Oak Park. OPRHC is the only non- profit agency in Oak Park promoting intentional integrative housing options. OPRHC is celebrating 50 years of service to the Oak Park community. Consider giving a tax-deductible year end donation so that we may reach our goal to raise $250,000 by December 31, 2022! These funds will help us continue to help integrate and invigorate the Oak Park community for up to 500 individuals in the first quarter of 2023!

You may donate at //oprhc.org/donate. To learn more, please call 708-848-7150.

The Oak Park-River Forest Community Foundation

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 the circumstance of birth or upbringing, is treated justly and fairly by its institutions and systems.

Visit oprfcf.org to learn more about our services to donors, scholars, and nonprofits.

Oak Park River Forest 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 the 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 “Open House: The Legacy of Fair Housing.” We are not supported by tax dollars and a gift of any amount funds our 2023 activities, research center, and knowledgeable staff. Learn more and donate at oprfmuseum.org or 708-848-6755.

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 12th season will take place March 3-12, 2022. 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. Learn more and donate at oneearthfilmfest.org/give.

Opportunity Knocks

Opportunity Knocks was established in 2009 to support people with intellectual and developmental disabilities as they live, work, learn, grow, and connect within their community. We believe in the strength, power, and value in the voice of every Warrior. We value the importance of an interdependent connection between each Warrior and their community, along with developing healthy relationships and social connections. We approach all of life’s

experiences fearlessly, unhinged by abilities.

We are 95% privately funded and rely on the generous support of the community. Your gift is integral in moving our mission forward. Visit opportunityknocksnow.org to learn more.

Our Future Reads

Our Future Reads was founded to promote literacy by connecting curious readers with books that interest them. We partner with other non-profit agencies and survey the recipients to create personalized book donations. Through our surveys, the members request specific genres and we fulfill those requests with our book inventory. Our personalized donations create a higher likelihood that the books will be read and shared with their families and friends. We serve youthful and adult readers that may not have the means to buy every book on the shelf but still would love to read them. Let the curious be curious!

Donate today and learn more at https:// ourfuturereads.com

Parents Against Child Sex Abuse (PAXA)

PAXA is a nonprofit that in 2022 celebrates five years of delivering on the mission of empowering parents to protect their children from sexual abuse.

PAXA offers programs like its PAXA Pointers™ Curriculum, which is a parent-focused curriculum designed to address foundational information about predatory behavior in scenarios where their child is easily accessible. The curriculum is anchored with a high quality printed P.A.X.A. Pointers™ Resource Guide that can be enhanced with a virtual or in-person presentation. The topics included are: Babysitters, Playdates, Sleepovers, Schools, Devices & Online Safety.

Learn more by visiting PAXA.online and KIDSTOO.org

Holiday Spectacular presented by

The Joyful Giving Catalog

PING!

PING! (Providing Instruments for the Next Generation), a nearly 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 family situation, and feel like they belong. PING! serves approximately 130 young musicians annually, 70% BIPOC, bringing diversity to instrumental music classrooms and beyond.

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.

Donate today and learn more at http:// progresscil.org/

River Forest Public Library Foundation

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 refresh the Children’s and Teen spaces, maintain the Memorial Garden for gatherings, offer community events like the Dooleys Band concert, explore the feasibility of re-purposing indoor space for community use, 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

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

Pro Bono Network

Access to justice should not depend upon your ability to afford an attorney. There are simply not enough legal aid lawyers to help people in dire need of civil legal aid. These include issues of safety from an abuser, adequate housing, critical care documents, and more.

Pro Bono Network has enabled 425+ attorneys to give more than 28,000 hours of free legal assistance to 5,000 clients whose lives were meaningfully changed. Let’s transform lives together by increasing access to legal representation.

To get involved or donate, visit pro-bononetwork.org. Your support will make an

Race Conscious Dialogues

Race Conscious Dialogues are designed to deepen awareness of identity, power and privilege, then to integrate learning with everyday life. This nonprofit community resource offers a variety of cohorts both in-person and virtually, and the foundational workshop series consists of 4 sessions with light readings to be done in preparation.

Conversations are framed around understanding Whiteness – our own racial identities, the historical and current harm being caused by Whiteness, and guided discovery of how we show up and work collectively to eradicate racism.

Thank you for considering a donation as well as participation! www. raceconsciousdialogues.org

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.

Learn more and donate at sarahsinn.org

St. Angela School

St. Angela has served the families of Chicago’s Austin neighborhood for more than five generations,

enriching the lives and futures of their children. We have a storied history and an extended family of generous alumni whose philanthropy provides scholarship funds and whose engagement keeps our campus beautiful. We are richly blessed and deeply grateful for the partnerships that have sustained us through the years. Now, early in our second century, we are proud to reaffirm our commitment to love and serve all those who choose to be part of our community. We ask those partners to recommit to our cause as well. Thank you!

Learn more about St. Angela School at saintangela.org or call us at (773) 626-2655.

Silk Road Rising

Silk Road Rising is a community-centered artmaking and arts service organization rooted in Pan-Asian, North African, and Muslim experiences. Through storytelling, digital media, and arts education, we challenge disinformation, cultivate new narratives, and promote a culture of continuous learning. Our work expands and enriches the American story and explores how we understand both Americanness and belonging. In so doing, we create opportunities for communities of diverse backgrounds to experience cultural interchange, challenge racism and coloniality, and upend polarization.

Learn how Silk Road Rising uses stories to help our world heal, and how you can support us by visiting www.silkroadrising. org.

The Symphony of Oak Park & River Forest

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 the greater Oak Park area 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. Hope, resilience, and recovery form the heart of our programs and services for youth and adults.

Individual therapy • Group therapy Psychiatry and medication management 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.

UCP Seguin

UCP Seguin believes that all people, regardless of ability, deserve to achieve their potential, advance their independence and act as full members of the community. So we stop at nothing to provide life skills training, assistive technology, meaningful employment and a place to call home for people with disabilities, as well as specialized foster care for children. Our goal: life without limits for people with disabilities. Make a difference in the lives of people with disabilities. Donate online at ucpseguin.org or send gifts to UCP Seguin, 332 Harrison Street, Oak Park IL 60304

Holiday Spectacular presented

Way Back Inn

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

A life best lived includes helping others experience a better life. When you give to the West Cook YMCA, you give to our community. 100% of your tax-deductible donation goes directly to providing scholarships to children, adults, and seniors- your friends and neighborstransforming their lives through access to health screenings, chronic disease prevention programs, after-school programs, swim lessons, life-skills training for residents, and Y memberships that can open the door to help each person become their best self. Make a difference right in your own community today through your support of West Cook YMCA’s scholarship fund.

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

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

For 20 years, children have learned through PLAY in the safe, enriching environment of Wonder Works Children’s Museum on North Avenue. We put great care into creating a child-sized environment with 8 permanent exhibits that spark curiosity, creativity, and learning in the areas of science, math, literacy, and the arts for children from birth to 8. Your donations support special programs, exhibit improvements, free and discounted admissions for families in financial need, and more! Please join us in our mission to spark curiosity and innovation through play-based learning experiences.

Visit Wonder-Works.org to donate and support the power of play

YoungLives Chicago

YoungLives Chicago is a mentoring ministry devoted to loving and supporting teenage mothers and their babies. YoungLives mentors walk

community of belonging for young families to thrive. Teen moms meet twice a month with their mentors for YoungLives club and have the opportunity for a summer camp experience specifically designed as a respite for teenage moms. The cost of a week of camp is $500 for the whole family. Your gift impacts two generations at once! Please consider sponsoring a teen mom and her baby today. Thank you for being a part of our YoungLives village.

If you would like information about volunteering, please contact kimberly.y.graves@gmail.com. You can also make donation at giving.younglife.org/ youngliveschicago

Youth Crossroads

Youth Crossroads supports youth, guiding them through life’s challenges, and inspiring them to discover new opportunities for personal development, healthy relationships, and positive community involvement. We provide youth in Chicago’s near west suburbs with the services they need to achieve success at home, in school, and in life. All services are free, in English and Spanish, including In-School and Community Counseling, Crisis Intervention, Youth Leadership Training, Workforce Development, After-School Enrichment, Food Pantries, and Summer Camp.

Your donation makes it possible for youth to get the guidance, support, and inspiration they need to build meaningful lives. Visit youthcrossroads.org for more information.

Holiday Spectacular presented by

Celebrate the season with this year’s theme, “A Rose in Winter”, featuring inspiring music from the medieval era to the present. Tickets start at $25 - Visit baroque.org/holiday for more information.

Committed to Oak Park and River Forest

Byline is privileged to be a part of the OPRF community and is proud to have contributed more than $90,000 in sponsorships and support to the Oak Park and River Forest area this year, alone. Our team looks forward to continuing our commitment to customers and businesses in the Oak Park and River Forest community.

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