Landmark 012523

LTHS board rejects bids for Willow Springs land

Village o cial says industrial development there a non-starter

By BOB SKOLNIK Contributing Reporter

Facing a hostile crowd of a couple hundred people, the Lyons Township High School District 204 Board of Education voted 6-0 on Jan. 23 to reject the two bids it received for an approximately 70-acre wooded parcel of undeveloped land it has owned just southwest of the corner of 79th Street and Willow Springs Road in Willow Springs for more than 60 years.

The board rejected a bid of $55 million from Bridge Industrial Inc., which met the school district’s minimum price, and a bid of $46.5 million from ProLogis Inc., a company See LTHS LAND on pa ge 9

Going to the mats

RBHS wrestlers, helped by Dan Williams’ 3rd at 195 pounds (left), win first league title since 2010

North Riverside, MWRD partner on green parking lot project

1.6 acres of asphalt at village campus being replaced by pe rmeable pavers

By BOB UPHUES Editor

The village of North Riverside will convert all of its parking lots at the Village Commons campus from asphalt to permeable pavers this summer after the Metropolitan Water Reclamation District of Greater Chicago selected the village’s project for its 2023 Green Infrastructure Partnership Program.

The MWRD is contributing roughly $1.6 million of the $2.16 million required to perform the work, with the village responsible for $545,000 of the cost.

According to Village Engineer John

Fitzgerald, “The intent is to reduce storm water runof f by storing, infiltrating and evaporating storm water within the permeable paver system.”

When it’s complete, the areas paved with the per meable surface will be able to divert a combined 200,000 gallons of water from the village’s sewer system by detaining it in a roughly 17-inch rock base topped by bricks.

“The purpose is to reduce flow into the village’s system to reduce basement backups, street flooding and overflow into the Des Plaines River,” Fitzgerald said.

It’s the first major green infrastructure project for North Riverside.

“This is just step one in what my vision was for going green and modernizing our public buildings,” said Mayor Joseph Mengoni.

According to Mengoni, village officials are exploring other green initiatives such as installing electric vehicle charging station in municipal parking lots.

T he areas to be re paved at the Village Commons campus include both the small front lot and large rear parking lot, the large parking lot in front of the police department as well as a smaller police-only parking lot closer to the building, a strip of 15 asphalt parking spaces for fire depar tment use and a do z en spaces near the public works building.

In all, the village and MWRD are partnering to re pave about 71,000 square feet of impervious parking lot, about 1.6 acre s, with permeable pavers, roughly 17 percent of the main campus area.

“It’s as if we’re taking out the asphalt and putting grass in there – that’s the impact,” Fitzgerald said.

T he plan is to seek bids and award a construction contract by the end of May, said Fitzgerald, with work beginning in June. If all goes according to schedule, the work could be wrapped up by the end of August.

Construction will be phased so that

there will be access to parking at all times, said Fitzgerald, who estimated that the rear Village Commons lot would be the first to break ground

“The beauty is that the Village Commons [campus] is all connected, so parking shouldn’ t be a problem,” he said.

T he asphalt parking lots will be excavated to a de pth of about 20 inches and backfilled with three distinct stone layers, along with an under-drain system set higher up in the stone base

While permeable paving is more expensive than asphalt pavement, it has benefits beyond diverting storm water r unof f from the sewer system. Asphalt parking lots typically need re paving every 15-20 years, while paver lots may not need repaving for double that amount of time

T he village submitted its applicatio n for MWRD funding last Se ptember and was notified of the award in late December. T he MWRD re ported receiving 34 project

applications.

North Riverside Village Commons, 2401 Desplaines Ave.

e MWRD is prov iding $1.6 million for a $2.16 million project to resurface all of the asphalt parking lots (shown above in red) at the North Riverside Village Commons campus with permeable pavers, diverting some 200,000 gallons of storm water away from the sewer system dur ing rain events.

Des Plaines Ave.

Village Commons Drive

FIRE DEPARTMENT PUBLIC WORKS POLICE DEPARTMENT

VILLAGE HALL

Ninja Squad Gym opens in North Riverside

Progra combines theater,

By JA Contributing

While raising overly familiar that come with baseball, swimming, demand early mor tices and never-ending tur n the fun of the Then there’s ninja training With an emphasis ity and activities and combined with shows like “American “Wipeout,” ninja schools, recreation centers and gyms across the U.S.

For Brookfield resident Tony Clar no, ninja training has become his life’s calling — combining decades of competitive gymnastics, professional theater experience and a passion for teaching

His Ninja Squad Gym -- a part martial arts, part gymnastics, part obstacle course and one-of-a-kind storytelling along the way -- is located at 7918 26th St. in North Riverside.

A Washington state native, Clar no’s story began at the age of 4, when he first began taking gymnastics classes

“Gymnastics has always been a part of my life; it set me up for life,” he said.

Though Clar no was a junior elite gymnast, ear ning state and regional titles as a child, during his late teen years, several serious injuries prevented him from competing at the collegiate level.

After graduating from an arts high school — and squeezing a black belt in karate — Clar no headed to the Midwest to study theater at the University of Minnesota.

Following 10 years of professional acting work and as a choreographer, Clar no began thinking of ways to combine storytelling elements, fight choreography and acrobatics into a unique venture.

“I came back to gymnastics and martial arts, and once I found a voice inside of both, I found a really cool way to do something special with storytelling,” he said. “My the-

Tony Claro

ater background allowed me to open this business, because there’s a big storytelling element that we’re doing with our ‘Ninja Squad’, where each character represents something inside of the classes.”

Six years ago, while running a gymnastics facility in Los Angeles, Clar no and his wife, Bridgette, shared a desire to move back to Chicago. A colle ge friend who was a realtor suggested checking out Brookfield for its proximity to the city and family friendly vibe

“Brookfield wasn’t even on our radar but as soon as we got here, we were sold,” he said. “We’ve loved every minute of it.”

Once settled, Clar no became general manager of Gemini Gymnastics Academy in LaGrange, where he began developing his ninja program concept while training teachers.

“I liked to show teachers how to teach gymnastics, engage with kids and have a great experience,” he said. “What I found that I loved about ninja is that there’s so much more creativity. Gymnastics is very detail-oriented, whereas ninja is more explorative, where you can tell stories. When you tell stories to kids, they lear n faster.”

While working in LaGrange, Clar no developed the Ninja Monkeys curriculum program, dedicated to exploring creativity through playground physicality.

“It’s probably the first activity that en-

ids to think with their bodies,” he y ninja is creatively conquering we’re asking kids to look at the playground and just have fun their bodies in a way like it’s a ehicle to go up and around.” strength-based and obstacle vities which provide kids the explore deter mination, resilience lar no coins his ninja program ke ‘The Floor is Lava’ but with algebra.”

three-year period, Clar no develNinja Essentials program, which online as a video tutorial and more than 60 businesses in the ., Canada and Australia. the program, he also developed Sleeve, a rewards program ws kids the chance to ear n and badges for accomplishments They part of a “Ninja Squad,” which monkey, panda, cheetah, owl and elephant embodying key athletic elements of patience, courage, deter mination, agility, grit, creativity and kindness

As kids go through the ninja program, they are able to lear n more about the ninja characters and discover the skills they like to do best.

In North Riverside, Clar no took over the space where Flipside Academy of Movement, operated by friend and fellow Brookfield resident Paul Canada had offered similar training since 2017.

“We were looking at a few properties and almost purchased one in Lyons, and then this opportunity became available,” Clar no said.

Clar no and Canada entered into an agreement where Clar no runs his own program at the storefront location while Canada will continue to offer his competitive ninja program at the location on Tuesdays and Thursdays.

Ninja Squad Gym opened last November, and Clar no says the new location has attracted families from across the area, specifically those with kids ages 3 to 7.

Unlike other sports, Clar no says, ninja training doesn’t have a specific season.

“Whenever you join, that’s when you begin to lear n new skills,” he said. “We move up through the curriculum at a pace that’s right for the child.”

For more information about Ninja Squad Gym and to register for classes, visit ninjasquadgym.com or call 708-800-8409.

IN THIS ISSUE

Calendar . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4

Crime . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5

Classi ed . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32

Kosey Corner . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10

Opinion . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10

Obituaries . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10

Spor ts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11

Editor Bob Uphues

Digital Manager Stacy Coleman

Design/Production Manager Andrew Mead

Editorial Design Manager Javier Govea

Designer Susan McKelvey

S ales and Marketing Representatives

Marc Stopeck, Lourdes Nicholls, Kamil Brady Business & Development Manager Mary Ellen Nelligan

Donor Relations Manager/Food Editor Melissa Elsmo

Circulation Manager Jill Wagner EMAIL jill@oakpark.com

Publisher Dan Haley

Special Projects Manager Susan Walker

BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Chair Judy Gre n Treasurer Nile Wendor f

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

HOW TO REACH US

ADDRESS 141 S. Oak Park Ave., Oak Park, IL 60302 PHONE 708-442-6739 ■ FAX 708-467-9066

E-MAIL buphues@rblandmark.com ONLINE www.RBLandmark.com

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The newspaper is available on newsstands for $1.00. A one -year subscription costs $41 within Cook County and $51 outside the county. Adver tising rates may be obtained by calling our o ce. Periodical rate postage paid at Oak Park, IL (USPS 0019-585). Postmaster send address correc tions to Landmark, 141 S. Oak Park Ave., Oak Park, IL 60302.

© 2023 Growing Community Media NFP

JACKIE PISANO/Contributor

Jan. 25-Feb. 1

BIG WEEK

Radio Players recreate classic shows

The Riverside Township Radio Players will recreate two more shows from the Golden Age of Radio on Jan. 27 at 7:30 p.m. in the auditorium of the Riverside Township Hall, 27 Riverside Road in Riverside.

This month, the troupe per forms “The Adventur of the Singing Rat” from the detective series “The Adventures of Ellery Queen” and the comedy o ering “Lion Hunting” from “The Abbott and Costello Show.”

Free and open to the public. Visit riversidetownshipradioplayers.com for more.

The

Chicago Por tage lec ture series returns

Lunar New Year dance per formance

Nor th Riverside Park Mall, 7501 Cermak Road, welcomes the Year of the Rabbit with a special Lunar New Year live per formance by the Yin He Dance Company of Chicago on Jan. 28 from 11 a.m. to noon in the lower-level center court.

Yin He Dance Company, which presents folkloric, classical and contemporary Chinese dance, will present a special Lion Dance as part of the performance. Visit northriversideparkmall.com for more.

And more

■ Theatre of Western Springs, 4384 Hampton Ave., presents “The Father,” a psychological drama by Florian Zeller and directed by Greg Kolack, from Jan. 26 through Feb. 5. Tickets are $27; $12 children and students. Call the box o ce at 708246-3380 or visit theatrewesternsprings.com for tickets and show times

■ Soup & Bread, the signature annual fundraising event for BEDS Plus, returns Feb. 5 from 3 to 7 p.m. at the Holiday Inn Banquet Center, 6201 Joliet Road in Countryside. Twenty soups will be available to sample along with craft beer and live music. Tickets are $25. Kids under 12 free. Visit beds-plus.org/ways-you-canhelp/soup-bread-2023.

■ Riverside Arts Center, 32 E. Quincy St., presents artist Bobbi Meier’s show “Imperfect Rituals” through Feb. 18. Gallery hours are Thursday-Saturday from 1 to 5 p.m.

There’s also “Mujer Quetzalcoatl” featuring the work of Alex Velazquez Brightbill, through March 30 in the lobby of the Riverside Township Hall, 27 Riverside Road in Riverside. Viewing hours are Monday-Thursday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. and Friday from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.

■ North Riverside Public Library, 2400 Desplaines Ave., presents After School Art Escape (child with adult) on Jan. 26 at 4 p.m., Crafterdarks: Mixed Media Card on Jan. 26 at 6 p.m., a Club de Lectura discussion about “El Italiano” by Arturo PerezReverte on Jan. 27 at 10:30 a.m., Calming Craft for

creativit

y of Walt Disney

Linda Sokol Francis

Brook eld Library, 3541 Park Ave., invites you to enjoy a portrait of the famed lm and animation innovator Walt Disney during “Walt Disney: Creativity Frame by Frame” on Jan. 30 at 7 p.m. in Meeting Room 1.

Presenter Bob Bur ton will share personal insights from Disney’s friends, family and colleagues and supplement them with clips from some of Disney’s nest productions.

Register to attend by calling 708-485-6917, ext. 130 or online at brook eld.evanced.info/signup

After a two-year hiatus, the Friends of the Chicago Portage are back with their 2023 Lecture Series, which kicks o Jan. 28 at 1 p.m. at the Lyons Public Library, 4209 Joliet Ave.

John Langer and Gar y Mechanic present “Jolliet and Marquette’s Discover y of Chicago,” detailing the explorers’ lives and travels while celebrating the 350th anniversar y of their epic journey of discover y.

Free and open to the public

Pancake Breakfast at Sokol Spirit

Sokol Spirit, 3909 Prairie Ave. in Brook eld, invites you for an all-you-can-eat Pancake Breakfast on Jan. 29 from 7:30 to 11 a.m.

Tickets are $10 for adults ($5 for kids 12-under) and include pancakes, sausages, eggs, co ee, juice and more.

Kids (child with adult) on Jan. 27 at 4 p.m., Family Movie Matinee screening of “Cli ord the Big Red Dog” on Jan. 28 at 1 p.m., Video Game Tournament for kids in grades 6-12 on Jan. 28 from 1:30 to 3 p.m., Morning Munchkin Stories with Miss Karen on Jan. 30 at 10:30 a.m. and Story Safari (child with adult) on Feb. 1 at 10:30 a.m. Register for programs online at northriversidelibrary.org/events-new.

■ Linda Sokol Francis Brook eld Library, 3541 Park Ave., presents Fairytale Storytime on Jan. 26 at 10:30 a.m., a Brook eld Garden Club meeting on Jan. 28 at 10 a.m., Hand Sewing Class: Needle Case on Jan. 28 at 3 p.m., Chair Yoga (virtual) on Jan. 30 at 11 a.m., Valentine’s Day Glowforge Creations on Jan. 31 at 7 p.m., and Family Fun Story Night on Feb. 1 at 6:30 p.m. Call 708-485-

6917 or visit online at brook eld.evanced.info/signup to register for programs.

■ Riverside Public Library, 1 Burling Road, presents All Ages Yoga Storytime (all ages) on Jan. 27 at 9:30 and 10:15 a.m., Mindfulness Together meditation with Gina Barsotti on Jan. 27 at 11 a.m., Legopalooza in the Program Room on Jan. 28 from 10 a.m. to noon, Mini-Movers Storytime (3-under with caregiver) on Jan. 30 at 9:30 and 10:15 a.m. and Little Hands Activity Time (best for ages 1-4) on Jan. 31 at 9:30 a.m. To register for programs, visit online at riversidelibrary.org/events.

■ The Brook eld Elks Lodge, 9022 31st St., hosts bingo the second Sunday of every month. Doors open at 1 p.m. and games start at 2 p.m. with cash payouts.

WA LT DISNE Y

Chicago Por tage National Historic Site

Cops recover car used in North Riverside armed robbery

A white Kia Sorrento used by three men during an ar med robbery on Jan. 15 on 7th Avenue in North Riverside has been recovered by police and is being processed for evidence.

On Jan. 19, Chicago police infor med North Riverside that it had recovered the vehicle in the 500 block of North Albany Avenue. It was subsequently towed to North Riverside.

Initially the vehicle had been described as possibly a Buick, but police subsequently identified the vehicle used in the North Riverside robbery as the same 2016 Kia So rrento stolen from the 1100 block of Holley Court in Oak Park on Jan.15 between 1 and 4 p.m.

Kia and Hyundai models have been targeted by car thieves for the last several months due to the ease with which they can be stolen.

Typically, thieves break out a rear window to gain entry and then peel the steering column and use a USB cord to start the vehicle. Oak Park police noted in their incident summary from Jan. 15 that shattered glass had been found where the Kia had been parked.

Just prior to 7:30 p.m., the Kia pulled up to the driveway of a home on 7th Avenue in North Riverside. Two masked men wearing all black and car rying firear ms robbed a homeowner in his garage, making of f with his wallet, keys and cellphone. Police recovered the cellphone about a block away.

■ North Riverside police reported on Jan. 16 at about 5:45 p.m. that an unoccupied 2007 GMC Sierra tow truck backed into a handicapped parking space at the North Riverside Park Mall, 7501 Cer mak Road, and was reported to have been involved in a crime in Cicero.

A computer check of the license plate revealed the truck was wanted for investigation of an unspecified felony. Security camera video showed the vehicle ar riving at about 4:40 p.m. and two men and two boys exiting it.

Cicero police reportedly did not have probable cause to ar rest those who had been in the truck, but police removed the truck from the scene and tur ned it over to Cicero detectives.

■ A North Riverside police of ficer on patrol on Jan. 19 at about 5:20 p.m. reported that while on patrol in the 7300 block of Cer mak Road, he conducted a computer check of a vehicle’s re gistration.

The check revealed that the vehicle had

been stolen out of New York City in October 2019. The driver reportedly told police the vehicle was hers and that she had bought it three years earlier from a dealership whose name she couldn’t recall.

Police released the driver without charges and gave her a ride to her Berwyn residence. The vehicle was towed from the scene pending an investigation.

■ A man flagged down a Brookfield police of ficer in the pa rking lot of Urban Air, 7401 25th St., on Jan. 21 at about 5:50 p.m., reporting that his black 2014 Chrysler 300 sedan had been stolen from the norther nmost row of the parking lot.

According to police, a completely whole, but shattered car window was located in the spot where the vehicle had been parked.

At about 7:30 a.m. on Jan. 22, Chicago police phoned to inform North Riverside that the stolen vehicle had been located in the 4900 block of West Arthington Street. However, prior to North Riverside receiving that notification, the vehicle reportedly had been stolen again. As of Jan. 23, the investigation was still active.

I-Pass transponders stolen

The owner of a Brookfield trucking company went to police on Jan. 17 to re port that at least three I-Pass tollway transponders had been stolen from the company’s fleet of semi-tractor trucks in June, October and December of 2022.

Catalytic conver ter thefts

North Riverside police responded to two locations in the 2200 block of Desplaines Avenue on the morning of Jan. 19 after residents called to report that the catalytic converters had been removed from the undercarriages of their vehicles

Berwyn police also reported a catalytic converter theft overnight. In that incident, according to police, two men threatened a resident with a gun before fleeing in a dark SUV.

Feces on car door handle

A resident of the 100 block of Olmsted Road, Riverside, went to police on the mor ning of Jan. 16 to report that, for the second time in three days, someone had smeared feces on the driver’s door handle of her vehicle.

The first time it had happened, on Jan. 13, the victim did not report the incident, according to the police re port

Car window smashed out

Brookfield police responded to the 4000 block of Ar thur Avenue on the mor ning of Jan. 18 after a resident called to re port that someone had broken out the rear windshield of her vehicle, which was parked on the rear driveway, sometime during the over night hours.

Police could not locate any object that might have been used to inflict the dam-

age or any security camera video.

These items were obtained from police reports filed by the Ri verside, North Ri verside and Brookfield police departments, Jan. 1622, 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 hav e not been adjudicated.

— Compiled by Bob Uphues

Animal shelters want formal deals with villages on strays

No more handshake agreements as agencies try to recoup costs

By BOB UPHUES Editor

Among the many jobs local police officers get called to do is that of animal response specialist – to remedy any mammalian problem, from removing bats from the attic to freeing deer caught in fences.

However, the most common animal related calls involve dogs that have strayed from their homes or are at loose due to neglect and are wandering neighborhoods and in and out of traffic

While police routinely check any corralled stray animals for any ID tags or microchips and often quickly reunite them with their owners, some animals are without identifying information and attempts to locate their owners are not always successful.

In the past, departments have had infor mal agreements with animal hospitals and shelters that would accept strays at any time But not anymore.

“Many of the shelters we’ve talked to, when they’ve had these types of relationships with municipalities, they decided to end those relationships over time, I think due to the unsustainable costs and demands,” Brookfield Police Chief Michael Kuruvilla told village trustees at their Jan. 9 committee of the whole meeting

Since the end of 2021, the department has had an infor mal agreement to house unclaimed stray animals at the Hinsdale Humane Society, a nonprofit no-kill shelter in operation since 1953.

According to Kuruvilla, between January and October 2022 police had transferred 15 animals to Hinsdale Humane Society, some of which had long stays as the agency identified people to adopt them. The average stay at the shelter for an animal was seven days, Kuruvilla said, and the village had spent about $5,000 in those 10 months to shelter the animals in Hinsdale.

On Jan. 23, trustees voted unanimously to approve a for mal agreement with Hinsdale Humane Society, which can be terminated by either party with 30 days’ notice, to house unclaimed animals at a rate of $500 per month or $6,000 annually.

Hinsdale Humane Society will review the

deal after 180 days to see if the rate is in line with Brookfield’s use of their services The agency could opt at that time to adjust the rate In 2025, however, the rate will begin to increase 5% annually.

The agreement takes some guess work out of the equation, since the number of stray animals from Brookfield and their lengths of stay at the shelter in any given time period fluctuates

“Frankly, as we’ve gone through some of the tougher placements here and losing the other shelters, this is the one that has been able to provide the service,” Kuruvilla said. “This is one of the last games in town.”

Brookfield isn’t alone in having trouble finding animal shelters willing to take their strays.

Last year, Riverside police were infor med by their longtime go-to shelter, Countryside Veterinary Center, that it would no longer take their unclaimed stray animals.

“It left us with a gap, and it was very dif ficult to find a service,” said Riverside Public Safety Director Matthew Buckley “There was a point where we had a stray dog and nowhere to go.”

Buckley said they were able to convince Oak Park’s Animal Care League to take in the dog and put the village on a waiting list. In July, the police department inked a deal with the Animal Care League on a trial ba-

Shelters under pressure as unwanted animals proliferate

Samantha Cheatham, the animal care and intake director for the Hinsdale Humane Society, has worked for the organization for 21 years. There have always been stray, abandoned and unwanted animals that need to be housed and cared for prior to adoption by a loving owner.

But she has never seen anything like this

“It’s a trying time for those in the shelter world right now,” Cheatham said.

Part of the situation is fallout from the COVID-19 pandemic, during which pet spaying and neutering procedures plummeted as many veterinary clinics halted the elective surgeries.

While the pandemic restrictions have ended, said Cheatham, the result is that there are far more unwanted animals needing shelter than there were prior to the pandemic On top of the re gular homeless pet population that also existed,

there are now 2.7 million additional animals nationwide needing shelter

At the be ginning of 2022, the nonprofit no-kill shelter saw a large influx of unwanted pets after a large wave of adoptions at the be ginning of the pandemic. Animals the Hinsdale Humane Society has taken in over the past year have included goldfish, rabbits, guinea pigs, gerbils and even a sug ar glider, a sor t of flying possum native to southeaster n Australia.

As of Jan. 20, Cheatham said she had received 700 email requests for animal intake in 2023, and they come from all over, not just the west and southwest suburbs of Chicago. Cheatham says the Hinsdale Humane Society takes in animals from as far away as Kentucky and Texas

While the Hinsdale Humane Society moved into bigger quar ters in 2018 – they went from a small building across the street from Hinsdale Hospital to the former Robert Crown Center at 21 Salt Creek Lane just west of I-294 and nor th of Ogden Avenue – they currently house 140 animals, a majority of them cats

“Cat adoptions are through the roof, that’s a new trend,” Cheatham said, add-

sis to provide services for $300 per month. The department this month signed a new contract with the agency.

“We don’t have that many strays we can’t reunite with their owners,” Buckley said. “It’s gone well for us so far.”

North Riverside police have been using Animal Care League as their shelter for the past five years under an ar rangement where they paid $75 per animal they dropped off there.

According to North Riverside Police Commander Christopher Boenzi, the department typically seeks shelter for fewer than 50 animals each year. The Animal Care League, however, wants to sign North Riverside to a for mal ag reement as well, with a sliding fee scale based on the number of animals sheltered there -- $300 per month for less than 50 annually, $100 a month for 51 to 100 animals annually and $1,000 a month for more than 100 animals annually.

“We’re trying to find a dif ferent route,” said Boenzi of the potentially much higher cost for sheltering unclaimed stray animals, “but they seem to be the only game in town.”

ing that cats account for 63 percent of their adoptions versus 33 percent for do gs

When a police de par tment brings in strays, they are most often do gs, which must be vetted, that is, they must be spayed/neutered if necessary, microchipped, inoculated and sometimes even trained before going up for adoption.

Some desirable do gs, like a golden retriever puppy they recently took in, get adopted in days after vetting. But the Hinsdale Humane Society more often takes in larger adult breeds that people aren’t so keen on adopting.

A big mixed-breed do g taken in around Christmas is still at the shelter, Cheatham said.

“Adoption is so de pendent on the do g,” she said.

There’s also a veterinarian shor tage, according to Cheatham, so places that once may have taken in strays from police may no longer have the staf f or time, much less the space, to handle them. The one vet the Hinsdale Humane Society uses, said Cheatham, perfor med 3,000 spay/neuter procedures last year

— Bob Uphues

PROVIDED

Brook eld police re united these two dogs, which had strayed from home on Jan. 23, with their ow ner that same day.

D102 expects to name new superintendent next month

Schumacher retiring at end of school year a er 8-year run

By BOB SKOLNIK Contributing Reporter

LaGrange-Brookfield School District 102 officials have started interviewing candidates seeking to replace Superintendent Kyle Schumacher, who announced last year that he would retire at the end of the 2022-23 school year

On Jan. 19, the District 102 school board met in closed session to interview three candidates for the superintendent position and hope to make a hire in February. They also voted that night, at a brief public meeting prior to the interviews, to give school board President Michael Melendez the authority to negotiate a contract with whoever the board identifies as its finalist. As of Jan. 24, the school board had not yet made its pick but had whittled the field to three finalists.

“Our hope is to make an offer by the end of next week,” Melendez said.

paign that resulted in a tax increase that has placed the district on stable financial footing

“We’re in a much better place [financially] than we were, certainly, thanks to this community,” Schumacher said.

Schumacher said he is also proud of the work done to improve the district’s reading instruction during his time at the helm of District 102, moving to a more research-based approach emphasizing phonics and structured word inquiry.

“I’m proud of some of the changes that we’ve made in some of our curricular areas, particularly in reading and literacy,” Schumacher said.

Schumacher said he is also proud of the dual-language program he helped start at Congress Park School in Brookfield and of the diversity and equity work that he has continued in District 102.

During Schumacher’s tenure, District 102 also eliminated letter grades and moved to standardsbased report cards. The change was implemented in the 2019-20 school year

Boy armed with gun arrested near Ehler t Park

Brookfield police arrested one juvenile and recovered a handgun following a short foot chase near Ehlert Park on Jan. 23 around 8 p.m., the third incident involving a firearm in that area since mid-December.

Police Chief Michael Kuruvilla said the department’s preliminary investigation has not revealed any connection between this latest incident and the other two, which also did not appear to be related to one another.

Unlike the prior two incidents, on Dec 9 and Jan. 12, no shots were fired during the most recent incident. According to Kuruvilla, police received a 911 call of two suspicious juveniles, one of whom was carrying what looked be a handgun, in the vicinity of Gerritsen and Maple avenues.

Imagineyour bestlife.Wehave.

“I think it has gone really well,” Schumacher said.

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broke apart, onto the ground

The gun was described as a .45-caliber weapon. In the prior two incidents, in which shots were fired but did not strike any person or object, 9 mm firearms were discharged.

“I’d exercise caution in connecting [the incidents],” Kuruvilla said. “As far as evidence, there’s nothing to suggest the first two [incidents] were related, and at least preliminarily this doesn’t appear to be connected.”

Both boys are 15 years old. The one allegedly armed with the gun, a Countryside resident, was charged with aggravated unlawful use of a weapon and resisting arrest and turned over to juvenile justice authorities. The other boy, a LaGrange resident, was released without being charged.

KYLE SCHUMACHER

Schumacher has hired all the district-level administrators in District 102 and has hired or promoted all of the district’s principals and administrators.

CantataAdultLifeServicesworkstoensureyouandyour lovedonesagewithrichpossibilityandliveyourbestlives.Weofferanensembleof lifestyleprograms,livingoptionsandin-homeservices.Learnmoreatwww.cantata.orgorcall usat708-485-1155.

The school board’s goal, according to Melendez, is to vote to hire the new superintendent at its Feb. 23 meeting

Schumacher, 55, is retiring on June 30.

“I’ve had 33 years in education and I’m kind of ready to look at the next chapter of my life,” Schumacher told the Landmark last week.

Schumacher is his eighth year leading District 102, arriving after serving as a school superintendent in Telluride, Colorado. Other than his stint in Telluride, Schumacher has spent his entire career in Illinois.

He grew up in small town near St. Louis and graduated from the University of Illinois, starting his career as a band and music teacher at Roy School in Northlake. Schumacher later became an administrator in Northbrook and then spent 17 years in Lake Forest District 67, where he rose to assistant superintendent.

In first year at District 102, Schumacher helped guide a successful referendum cam-

Dealing with the COVID-19 pandemic was a big challenge for Schumacher, as it was for all school administrators.

“It was a constant balancing act of trying to get the politics out of the school, trying to balance parent fears, teacher fears, student fears with keeping lear ning going and what is the best way to go about that,” Schumacher said.

He said District 102 didn’t see a huge regression in test scores after three months of complete remote lear ning in 2020 and hybrid lear ning for all of the 2020-21 school year.

In retirement Schumacher said he plans to continue serving as the volunteer choir director at the Bethlehem Woods Retirement Community He also intends to look for other volunteer opportunities to pursue in music and to travel as much as he can.

Officers responding to the area located two juveniles at Gerritsen and Elm. The juvenile identified by the witness as the one carrying the handgun reportedly ran from police, who detained him in the 4500 block of Maple Avenue Prior to being arrested, the juvenile reportedly tossed a loaded handgun, which

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Kuruvilla said police had already ramped up patrols in the area and will continue to do so.

Cantata Adult Life Services works to ensure you and your loved ones age with rich possibility and live your best lives. We offer an ensemble of lifestyle programs, living options and in-home services. Learn more at www.cantata.org or call us at 708-485-1155.

Imagine your best life. We have.

“It’s been a great opportunity to me, it’s been my pleasure working here,” Schumacher said. “The staf f that we’ve hired and the staf f’s that’s been here have been incredibly nimble.”

Tuesday, February 14, 2023

“Our intention by showing more presence is to bring some reassurance to the community over there,” Kuruvilla said. “We’ll continue our focused efforts.”

Imagine your best life. We have.

— Bob Uphues

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Cantata Adult Life Services works to ensure you and your loved ones age with rich possibility and live your best lives. We offer an ensemble of lifestyle programs, living options and in-home services.

Learn more at www.cantata.org or call us at 708-485-1155.

12 Noon to 2:00 PM Wye Valley Independent Living Building 2940 McCormick Ave., Brookfield

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RBHS football switches leagues amid MSC shakeup

Bulldogs looking for conference options a er private schools bail out

By BOB SKOLNIK Contributing Reporter

Riverside-Brookfield High School’s football team will make four trips to the far south suburbs and beyond next year as team is joining the Southland Conference as an honorary member for football only

in 2023. RBHS will the eighth team in the Southland Conference.

The other seven schools in the Southland Conference for football are Bloom, CreteMonee, Kankakee, Thornton, Thor nridge, Thornwood and Rich Township. Next fall RBHS will have road games at Crete-Monee, Kankakee, Thor nwood and Rich Township.

For most other sports, RBHS will remain in a shrunken version of the Metro Suburban Conference with Elmwood Park, Ridgewood and Westmont high schools while continuing to look for a long-term conference affiliation.

“It allows us to strengthen our non-conference schedules,” Assistant Principal fo Athletics Brendan Curtin said.

The private schools currently in the Metro Suburban Conference are leaving to join ei ther the Chicago Catholic League or a new Chicagoland Christian Conference.

Instead of playing football in the Metro Suburban League, which would have necessitated two games against each school in the conference as was briefly done more than a decade ago, RBHS officials tried to find a better fit.

•

“Just didn’t think it would be a fulfilling experience to ask our boys to play the same opponents twice within a season,” Curtin told the RBHS school board at their Dec. 13 meeting

told the school board. “So not only are you trying to find yourself an invitation but then you have to find someone who is looking to leave their conference and is of suitable size and has multiple levels and can fit in well with that conference.”

Skinkis told the Landmark that RBHS officials have approached the West Suburban Conference, with is made up of 14 schools, split into two divisions

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.

RBHS, with about 1,600 students, is a significantly bigger school than Elmwood Park (958 students), Ridgewood (843 students) and Westmont (375 students). The Bulldogs defeated Westmont, which has only one level of football, 55-0 last year. RBHS did not play Elmwood Park or Ridgewood in football last season because they were in a different division of the Metro Suburban Conference.

In gymnastics, water polo and swimming, RBHS competes in independent conferences because the other Metro Suburban Conference schools don’t have teams in those sports.

The West Suburban Gold Conference might be the best fit for RBHS. It has seven schools that range in size, for sports purposes, from Morton, (nearly 8,200 students) to Hinsdale South (1,407 students).

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Ideally, RBHS would like to join a conference of schools of similar size and athletic programs. Curtin and Superintendent Kevin Skinkis have been looking a new conference affiliation for nearly two years but have so far been unable to find one that fits and is willing to allow RBHS to join “We’re trying to find a conference that can accommodate all of our levels,” Skinkis said meaning a conference that has competition in the larger sports at the freshman, sophomore and varsity levels and at least two levels in other sports

Conferences typically consist of an even number of schools, so many are not interested in adding one new member.

“What happens is [potential partner conferences] want you to bring a date,” Skinkis

For the past few years RBHS has opened the football season with a game against Morton, one the Bulldogs typically win. Next year, the RBHS football is adding Hinsdale South as its other non-conference opponent before playing the seven Southland Conference schools.

Joining the Southland Conference for most sports would result in significant travel times for RBHS teams to compete at away contests, which could be a burden in sports that compete more frequently than the once a week, like football.

Enrollment at the Southland Conference schools, for football purposes, range from 1,065 for Thor nridge to 2,804 for Bloom, which like Morton combines the enrollments of two schools for sports teams.

The best football teams in the Southland Conference last season were Crete-Monee, which finished 9-3 and won two playoff games, and Kankakee, which finished 8-3 and won one playoff game

e Bulldogs will play in the Southland Conference in 2023.

ASSISTED

LTHS LAND

Village mi ed

from page 1

that specializes in building distribution centers and warehouses

Before the vote, school board President Kari Dillon said that the administration recommended rejecting the bids because they did not conform to the terms and conditions set forth in the request for bids

After the vote neither Dillon nor Superintendent Brian Waterman would say how Bridge’s bid was not in conformity with the bidding terms and conditions.

The vote came six days after executives from Bridge met with officials from the village of Willow Springs. The executives reportedly told village officials their plan was to turn the land into an industrial park.

During a public comment at the LTHS school board meeting, Willow Springs Village Administrator Ryan Grace said village officials told the Bridge executives that an industrial park would not work for the area.

He also said he infor med them that the land was zoned only for single-family housing, senior housing and

that industrial use of the land is prohibited by the Willow Springs zoning code. All of the Willow Springs village trustees attended the school board meeting

“To be clear, the elected board for the village of Willow Springs has no intentions of modifying our village code to allow an industrial development that will not be in the best interest of the community,” Grace told the school board.

Neither Dillon nor Waterman answered when asked after the meeting if Bridge asked them to reject the bid.

Grace also said that Bridge executives told them that they had been working with LTHS for more than a year to purchase and secure development for the site.

Most of the 30 or so people who made public comments opposed the sale of the land and accused the school board of not looking out for residents who live south of Joliet Road.

Jim Distasio, who lives adjacent to the land that LTHS wants to sell, excoriated the board for disregarding the needs and wants of people who lived near the Willow Springs land

“Their whole sales process was carefully engineered to turn land just steps away from an elementary school into an industrial park,” Distasio said. “This is about elected

dale and the Willow Springs community for a $55 million windfall.”

Pleasantdale Elementary School is just west of the land LTHS owns.

He accused LTHS of trying to quickly ram through the deal when few people were paying attention.

“This whole process, from your farce of soliciting feedback through website launched November 30th to moving to a sale just 20 days later, to refusing meetings with officials in Willow Springs and in Pleasantdale have been premised on a simple motive, you knew that this was a bad deal for our community so you moved quickly hoping no one would notice,” Distasio said.

Distasio said that the attempt to sell the property to a company that would turn the land into an industrial park shattered the community’s trust with the LTHS school officials. He and others complained about the pollution and congestion that an industrial park would create

“All of you prioritized money over the health and well-being of your constituents south of Joliet Road,” Distasio said.

Distasio said that pproximately ple had signed a petition opposing the sale of the land to Bridg

submitted written public comment, urged the board to sell the land, saying it was their duty to do what is right for the entire district.

“It is the school board’s fiduciary responsibility to the taxpayers to make decisions on behalf of the district that will benefit all students at least expense to all taxpayers,” said Julie Workman of LaGrange.

LTHS bought the property in two chunks, one in 1955 and the other in 1962, with the idea that a new high school could be built there if it was ever needed. But it has never been needed and LTHS officials decided last year, apparently after inquiries from Bridge, to try to sell the land and use the proceeds to fund upgrades at the school’s two campuses in LaGrange and Wester n Springs.

Dillon made clear that if LTHS sells the land, it has no control over what a buyer would do with the land. Decisions on what could be built there would be up to the village of Willow Springs

Grace presented a copy of the Willow Springs zoning code to the school board.

“Please listen to all community stakeholders and include the village of Willow Springs zoning ordinance in our bid packet so that the approved the land,” Grace

THE L ANDMARK VIEW

Let’s put on a show

There has never been any secret that Lyons Township High School District 204 has, for more than half a century, owned 70 acres of land in Willow Springs. And it’s been so crystal clear for so long that the district would never build another school there, that the village of Willow Springs took pains to carefully designate the parcel a special zoning district, setting out very specific uses for that land, prohibiting any kind of industrial or warehouse uses

On Jan. 21, outraged Willow Springs of ficials and residents car rying professionally printed “Stop the Sale” placards expressed their displeasure over the District 204 school board, and it was all quite theatrical, with Village Administrator Ryan Grace handing over the village’s zoning code to the district’s administration as a cherry on top.

You remember Ryan Grace, don’t you? He was for a brief moment the maintenance director at Lyons-Brookfield School District 103 until he got bounced for a late-night remodeling project at the district of fice that led to an asbestos-related fine from the Illinois Depar tment of Public Health. Anyway, he’s running a municipality now.

Grace is a close friend of Lyons Village President Christopher Getty, who is the brother of Kenneth Getty, who is the Lyons Township Schools Treasurer, whose of fice was humiliated by Lyons Township High School 204 in court, paying out millions in le g al fees over years in order to recoup about $764,000 out about $6 million in fees the school district had refused to pay for services the TTO didn’t render

We’re sure that had no bearing on the Jan. 23 spectacle, what with D204 board President Kari Dillon up for re-election this spring.

Here’s the thing. Willow Springs has complete control over what’s going to get built on the land LTHS now owns. Whoever buys it will have to go through the village’s planned development review, and LTHS has no say whatsoever in how the land gets redeveloped if they sell it.

The Willow Springs Village Board, the entirety of which was in attendance at the Jan. 23 school board meeting, will be the ones casting the votes on redevelopment.

The strangest thing about the w hole situation is that both bidders sought to convert the land to either industrial or warehouse uses, which are prohibited by the zoning code.

We cannot think of one major – heck, minor -- land deal that’s ever been sealed before the bu yer knows whether what they’re proposing will fly. Yet, here are two potential buyers submitting bids to fork over more than $40 million for something totally at odds with the zoning.

To whom LTHS sells the land is ir relevant. Village action is the only thing that matters

KOSEY CORNER

Back on track after a bump in the road

Greetings from Cantata! Does it sound like I am at some exotic island tanning myself and enjoying a tall tropical drink with a little umbrella garnished with fruit? Don’t I wish? I am at Cantata in Brookfield for rehab. Many of you still think of it as The British Home.

Here is how it star ted. I have had trouble with my legs for quite a while and have been under the care of Dr. Anderson, my podiatrist. However, on Jan. 4, I could not walk, called 911, and they transpor ted me to MacNeal Hospital. So, there I was from Jan. 4 until Jan. 16.

JOANNE KOSE Y

Aside from the poking, prodding and people coming in at all hours around the clock, telling you to get some rest, I cannot say enough good things about the facility. A comfortable bed and the nursing staf f spoiled me.

The food? They had an extensive menu to choose from and let me pick what time I wanted my meal served. The food was quite good, I might add.

What fascinated me was the robot that looked like something out of Star Wars. She has blue eyes and makes deliveries. Wanted to find out more about the robot but it didn’t happen.

So here I am Cantata rehabbing, doing what I’m told to with the help of some very nice people. Most of the time I am in my room reading a John Grisham book and doing my exercises. I am gaining strength in my le gs and upper body, but I’m not ready to be a Rockette yet and never will.

It’s been nice to meet some new people here who know The Landmark and wondered where my column had been. Well, I’m back and hope I won’t miss anything again.

Hard to believe how fast the holidays came and went. Still have a few gifts that need to be delivered. I’m anxious to g et back home to find out what’s happening so I can get news for you. Don’t forget, if you have anything of interest just send it to editor Bob Uphues at buphues@rblandmark.com and I will get it.

Thank you to all of you who expressed concer n. Sometimes life puts some bumps in the road, but you just roll with it.

Looks like someone is coming in to give me more meds to help make me better. OK, here goes down the throat. See you soon!

OBITUARIES

Trac y J. Brewer, 65

Stationary engineer

Tracy J. Brewer, 65, of Brookfield, died Jan. 10, 2023.

Mr Brewer was a stationary engineering and a proud member of Local 399 throughout his career He is remembered as a hard-working, ready to help on any project kind of man. He fought a courageous battle with cancer and gave everything he had so that he could have more time with his wife and daughters.

He loved being a husband and dad. His goofy personality and smile would always light a room and will forever be missed. He was the best of the best. A man who loved his family and will be loved and missed forever.

Mr. Brewer was the husband of Kathleen (nee Klump); the father of Bridget and Brittany; the brother of Lynda Trevegno, Laurie (the late Tom) Booth and the late Teddy Brewer; the son of the late Polly and Peanuts Brewer; the son-in-law of Maureen (the late William) Klump; a brother-in-law to Patti (Bob) Sinnott, Bill (Maria) Klump, Timmy (Heather) Klump and the late Michael Klump; the uncle of many nieces and nephews whom he adored; and a friend to many.

Services have been held. Inter ment was private Memorials are appreciated to AdventHealth Cancer Institute Hinsdale, 1 Salt Creek Ln., Hinsdale, 60521.

Hitzeman Funeral Home, Brookfield, handled ar-

TRACY J. BREWER

RBHS wrestlers pin down first MSC title since 2010

ree Bulldogs placed 1st, with four more 2nd

By BILL STONE Contributing Reporter

Riverside-Brookfield High School senior Joe Midona and sophomore Edgar Mosquera are trying to retur n to the IHSA Class 2A boys wrestling individual state meet.

On Jan. 21, they both experienced a different kind of success – their first Metro Suburban Conference Meet championships along with senior Bill Martin.

“It was one of my goals of progress of becoming the best,” said Mosquera, the 113-pound champion who was a state qualifier at that weight in 2022. “It doesn’t mean everything to me, though. What means everything is when I start frequently getting firstplace medals. That’s my new goal.”

The Bulldogs had seven top-two all-conference finishers and won the team title (227 points) for the first time since 2010 and the first under coach Nick Curby in the final season before several MSC schools leave the conference.

“It was kind of something we had in the

back of our minds, a little push to give us a little extra energy,” said 220-pound champion Midona. “I’d say it’s something that gave me a little extra motivation.”

Champions Mosquera (19-8), Midona (23-4) and Martin (21-10 at 170) and second-place junior Jacob Noe (23-12 at 145) and sophomores Chase Murrell (19-11 at 106), Jacob Godoy (5-6

at 132) and Matt Elzy (11-6 at 182) were all-conference for the first time.

Seniors Quintavius Murrell (22-9 at 120) and Dan Williams (4-9 at 195) and juniors Josh Gonzalez (23-10 at 138), Cade Tomkins (20-12 at 152) and Max Strong (20-11 at 160) placed third and senior Devontae Givens (2510 at 285) was fifth.

“Unfortunately, with the end of the conference, it’s a nice way to end it for us It was a nice way to kind of start wrapping up the end of the year,” Curby said.

Midona had a victory for the ages against Wheaton Academy senior George Truitt (119). Trailing 18-9 in the third period, Midona essentially needed a pin to win.

When Midona scored a takedown, he was surprised when Curby told him to let Truitt back up Almost immediately, Midona got another takedown and pin to win with 14 seconds left.

“That was exhilarating, everything I was working for all coming together,” Midona said. “I think it was just [Curby] saying [Truitt] was more tired than me After that I put my mind to it and was able to secure it. I think it was up there with my state qualifier match. It’s just the raw emotion, coming down to the end, all or nothing or else it’s over.”

Mosquera won his final 6-1 over Ridgewood sophomore Islam Khater (25-5), avenging a 6-1 defeat earlier this season.

“I was extremely happy when I got to stand on that podium. I wish more of my family members were there,” Mosquera said. “I feel really ready [for postseason]. I feel like I’m going to go downstate again.”

LTHS bowlers secure spot at IHSA state meet

Lions hoping to improve upon last year’s 16th place nish

By BILL STONE Contributing Reporter

With seniors Drew Escamilla and Tommy Hennessy the only retur nees from the 2022 state-qualifying lineup, the Lyons Township High School boys bowling team should have had many question marks this season.

But the Lions had all the answers on Jan. 21, finishing third at the IHSA Sectional

at Bowlero in Glendale Heights to qualify for the 24-team state meet for the second straight year and seventh time since 2013.

Needing a top-six finish, the Lions (6,163) averaged 205.4 pins per g ame.

“We were always talking about how fun state was last year and we all knew from the be ginning of the season it was going to be our goal,” Hennessy said.

Escamilla’s 1,354 six-g ame series (225.7 average), climaxed by his highest g ames of 258 and 257, was seventh individually.

Senior Matt Skwarek (1,268, 211.3 average, 236 high g ame) was 20th, followed by Hennessy (30th, 1,231, 205.2 average, 254 high g ame) and senior Nick Boxell (1,116, 186.0 average, 233 high g ame). Senior Mi-

chael Kubick (756) bowled in four g ames and sophomore Danny Haley (438) and junior Cesar Izquer ra bowled the final two.

“It’s not just one person. Any one of us can put up big numbers,” Escamilla said. “[We’ re] just a well-rounded team. We’ve got three guys of f the bench who can come in and make an impact,” Hennessy said.

Earlier in the season, on Dec. 19 at Bowlero, the Lions (6,599) achieved the highest team series in program history at the Glenbard Nor th Invitational with Hennessy (1,454) taking first place and Escamilla (1,407) and Skwarek (1,356) also excelling.

“I’ve had a lot of good teams that I would think would have put up numbers like that. I didn’t expect it from this team, but it just

shows they’ re got a lot of potential,” LTHS coach Gary Mor rill said. “Once again, it’s not the same person every time leading this.”

At the 2022 state meet, the Lions finished 16th (5,845) and didn’t make the cut to the second day for the top 12. Escamilla tied for 88th (1,165) and Hennessy bowled 943 for five g ames Skwarek and Kubick were alter nates.

These Lions hope to challenge the program’s highest state finish of ninth in 2018 (11,426).

“We’ re just happy that we can go back to state again and hopefully rewrite history,” Hennessy said. “I think we’re ready and prepared.”

IAN MCLEOD

RBHS sophomore Edgar Mosquera earns some back points during his 6-1 win over Ridgewood’s Islam Khater in the 113-pound nal at the Metro Suburban Conference meet on Jan. 21.

RBHS gymnasts on the beam to win home invite

Bulldogs squeak past Willowbrook to win title

By BILL STONE Contributing Reporter

Riverside-Brookfield High School senior Sarah Lindenberg wanted her last home girls gymnastics meets to be memorable.

The finale at the fifth annual RB Invitational on Jan. 21 even proved to be historic

The Bulldogs not only scored a season-best 131.35 but pulled out the eight-team title by just 125 points over defending champion Willowbrook.

“It was such a good end to a good season and my last home meet,” Lindenberg said. “We were kind of going into this meet that we were going to get lower in the places but still score high. Just finding out we won was amazing.”

RBHS prevailed thanks to sticking all five balance beam routines – the first time that’s happened in any meet in head coach Karyn Domzalski’s eight seasons.

It happened with help from -- and maybe in spite of -- Lindenberg.

After solid routines from freshman Claudia Grusecki, sophomore Vivian Hertogs, Lindenberg and junior Annabel Krueger, Lindenberg excitedly told Domzalski the Bulldogs were 4 for 4.

Sophomore Lia Christiansen, who still had to perform, happened to overhear “Knowing made me a little nervous … but

OBITUARIES

Continued from page 10

rangements

Send sympathy or Mass cards to Hitzeman Funeral Home, 9445 31st St., Brookfield, 60513, c/o Tracy Brewer family.

Irene M. Golden, 74

Accountant

Irene Marie Golden, 74, of Riverside, died Jan. 18, 2023.

Ms Golden worked as an accountant at Loyola University Medical Center. The family is so grateful for the excellent care at Rainbow Hospice ARK.

it made me really want to do this for me and team, so I was super excited that I stuck,” Christiansen said.

Christiansen scored a team-best 9.1 to finish third. She also was second in all-around (35.75), floor exercise (9.15), vault (9.0) and un-

even parallel bars (8.5).

Lindenberg and Krueger shared eighth on beam (8.4) and tied for ninth in all-around (31.95). Lindenberg tied for seventh on floor (8.7) and sophomore Reese Phelan was ninth on uneven bars (7.6). Junior Alexa Cavaliere

also competed.

The Bulldogs have won their invite seven times under Domzalski, the last four since the invite expanded to eight teams. They previously scored 130.9 on Jan. 4.

“[A 131] was huge. But the five beams were the highlight because they know it’s never happened here before and they were the first crew that made it happen,” Domzalski said.

Hinsdale South sophomore Anya Patel won all four events with a 37.0 all-around total. Christiansen came 0.1 points from sharing first on vault and floor, usually her strongest events.

“I think beam was my favorite because I hit all of my skills,” Christiansen said. “It was super exciting that we finally got a 131. [Winning] was the cherry on top of everything.”

On Senior Night on Jan. 17, the Bulldogs (130.25) defeated Geneseo (129.20) and U-46 co-op (127.70) in Upstate Eight Conference action.

Christiansen (35.35 all-around) won all four events. Krueger was second on beam (8.6).

RBHS honored six four-year seniors – Lindenberg, Claudia Grusecki, Ava Connerty, Stella Pizana and Quinn Kahle, a manager this season.

“I was really happy to be surrounded by my teammates,” Lindenberg said. “Obviously, I’m heartbroken to leave. These are the girls I’ve been with my whole life.”

Claudia Grusecki injured her right elbow during war mups at Oswego on Jan. 11. She hopes to retur n for the Geneva Regional on Feb. 1. The Bulldogs compete at the UEC Meet on Jan. 28 at Glenbard South.

Kevin D. Riley, 62 Sales representative

Kevin D. Riley, 62, a longtime resident of Brookfield, died Jan. 21, 2023.

M. GOLDEN,

She was the daughter of the late Kathryn (nee Malone) and the late John Golden; the sister of Margaret (Larry) Dombrowski, Colleen (John) Weseloh and the late Michael (Mary Jane) Golden; and the aunt of Heidi Jones, Dana Craddock, Ed Weseloh, Matthew Golden, James, Lori, Kevin and Amelia Dombrowski, Janel Hodge and Rene Dombrowski.

A funeral Mass was celebrated Jan. 23 at St. Mary Church in Riverside. Inter ment was at Calvary Cemetery.

Ivins/Moravecek Funeral Home, Riverside, handled arrangements

Mr Riley was born Feb. 12, 1960 and worked as sales re presentative for Frama Building Products in Addison. He was a big fan of all spor ts but especially his Chicago White Sox. He loved to play golf, trips to F lorida and was a talented musician who enjoyed playing drums

He was the husband of Cecelia “Cec” (nee Steiner) Riley, the father of Patrick

Riley, the brother of Kathy (Eugene) Siwak and the uncle of Ethan Siwak. He is also survi d by his loyal do g, Roxy

A memorial visitation will be held on Saturday, Feb. 11 at the Conboy-Westchester Funeral Home, 10501 W. Cer mak Road (2 blocks west of Mannheim Rd.), Westchester, from 1 to 3 p.m. Remembrances, eulo gies and stories will be shared at 2:30 p.m. Inter ment will be private All friends attending Kevin’s services are asked to dress casually or wear your favorite White Sox jersey.

Ar rangements were handled by the Original Kuratko Family, Brian D. Kuratko, director

IRENE

KEVIN D. RILE Y

IAN MCLEOD

Senior Sarah Lindenberg performs on the balance beam at the RB Invitational on Jan. 21 in Riverside.

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

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.

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.

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.

Shipping Manager

Manufacturing

per hour

Top rated firm Alpina Manufacturing LLC founded in 1992, locally owned beautiful campus in Galewood, near Mars candy, 3 blocks north of Oak Park. We build and sell display framing systems to customers nationwide including Wal-Mart, Verizon, Circle K, Hospitals, CTA Apply in person M-F 8am to 4pm • Alpina • 6460 W Cortland St Chicago, IL 60707 www.fastchangeframes.com

IT OPERATIONS SPECIALIST

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

CUSTOMER SERVICE REPRESENTATIVE II

The Village of Oak Park is seeking qualified candidates for the position of Customer Service Representative II in the Development Customer Services Department. This position provides customer service to the public by providing a variety of responsible and difficult customer service and receptionist work including high volume telephone traffic; and to perform the more difficult and complex customer service duties depending on the department including but not limited to service requests, permits, parking passes, block party permits, accounts payable processing and vehicle stickers. This position is crosstrained with the other Customer Service Representative IIs in the Village.

Applicants are encouraged to apply online at https://secure.entertimeonline.com/ta/6141780.careers?ApplyToJob=537079168 or 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. First review of applications January 20, 2023.

DIRECTOR OF FINANCE & ADMINISTRATION

Unity Temple Unitarian Universalist Congregation is looking for a full-time Director of Finance & Administration, who will manage the administrative and financial matters of the congregation in collaboration with church leadership and board officers. This person will participate on and advise the Executive Team and advise governing board on a wide range of financial matters at both the strategic and operational levels including the operational budget and stewardship planning. They will also oversee and adjust processes and operations as necessary to ensure efficient and effective implementation and creation of policies and procedures, as well as supervise some other staff members.

Core Competencies:

● Organization and Planning: Organize and oversee people, funding, materials, and support to accomplish multiple, concurrent goals and activities. Project management and excellent organizational skills

● Vision and Purpose: Commitment to and knowledge of Unitarian Universalist Principles, values, history and worship.

● Trust and Integrity: Is widely trusted to keep confidences, admit errors, and adhere to a transparent set of personal and professional values that are congruent with the ministry of the congregation

● Conflict Management: Recognize and resolve conflicts effectively, applying principles of active listening, collaboration, and equity for both congregants and staff

● Proficiencies: Working knowledge of business and church related software (Google Drive. Constant Contact and Realm or other church database software). Must have excellent project management and professional communication skills. Working knowledge of HR and accounting practices.

You can find out more information about the position at https://unitytemple.org/job-postings/. To apply, send a cover letter and resume to jobs@ unitytemple.org indicating “Director of Finance & Administration” in the subject line.

Oak Park Residence Corporation is hiring and inviting candidates to apply for:

• Case Manager – HCV Program

• Accounting Clerk (PT)

• Assistant Property Manager

– The Oaks and The FarrellyMuriello Apartments

• Property Assistant/Cleaner –Mills Park Tower

We offer benefits such as 401(k) with employer contribution, Health, Dental, Vision, Life, and Short-term and Long-Term Disability Insurance, EAP, FSA, Professional Development Assistance as well as these added Benefits:

- PTO, Paid Sick Leave, Paid Vacation, and Paid Holidays

- Tuition Reimbursement

- A Collaborative, Supportive, and Fun Work Environment

For a complete job description please go to our website: Work for OPRC –OPRC (oakparkrc.com) or to apply send cover letter and resume to bswaggerty@oakparkrc.com.

OPRC strives to provide a positive and meaningful work experience, where you can make a positive difference in the lives of others.

Oak Park Residence Corporation is a community-based, non-profit organization. For over 46 years, we have led the way in promoting Oak Park’s housing diversity and economic balance by offering quality apartments at affordable prices.

HELP WANTED • NETWORK SPECIALIST

PUBLIC NOTICE

Attention Jose R Moreno, you are the last indicated owner or lienholder on file with Illinois Secretary Of State. Our records show, your 2016, Nissan, Altima with the following VIN 1N4AL3AP2GC175373 was towed to our facility on 11/21/2022. The current amount due & owing is $2000.00. If payment is not received within 30 days, Nobs Towing Inc. will intend to enforce a mechanic’s lien pursuant to Chapter 770 ILCS 50/3. Sale of the aforementioned vehicle will take place at 1510 Hannah Ave, Forest Park, IL, 60130 on 3/6/2023.

Published in Forest Park Review January 25, 2023

PUBLIC NOTICE

Notice is hereby given, pursuant to “An Act in relation to the use of an Assumed Business Name in the conduct or transaction of Business in the State,” as amended, that a certification was registered by the undersigned with the County Clerk of Cook County. Registration Number: Y23010023 on January 9, 2023. Under the Assumed Business Name of DANIELMOKMAD SP with the business located at: 1024 WASHINGTON BLVD, APT 302, OAK PARK, IL 60302. The true and real full name(s) and residence address of the owner(s)/partner(s) is: DANIEL MOKRAUER-MADDEN 1024 WASHINGTON BLVD, APT 302, OAK PARK, IL 60302, USA

Published in Wednesday Journal January 11, 18, 25, 2023

PUBLIC NOTICES

PUBLIC NOTICE OF COURT DATE FOR REQUEST

FOR NAME CHANGE

STATE OF ILLINOIS, CIRCUIT COURT COOK COUNTY.

Request of Lindsey Ann Brewer Case Number 2022CONC001598

There will be a court date on my Request to change my name from: Lindsey Ann Brewer to the new name of: Lynzy Ann Bailey

The court date will be held:

On February 3, 2023 at 9:30am at 50 W Washington, Chicago, IL, Cook County in Courtroom #1730

Published in Wednesday Journal January 18, 25, February 1, 2023

PUBLIC NOTICES

LEGAL NOTICE

STATE OF ILLINOIS) COUNTY OF WILL )ss

Circuit Court of Will County, County Department, Domestic Relations Division.

In re the marriage of Deborah C. Amaro, Petitioner and DiRefugio Carlos Acosta, Respondent, Case No. 2022DN000698.

The requisite affidavit for publication having been filed, notice is hereby given to you, the above named Respondent, that a Petition has been filed in the Circuit Court of Will County, Illinois, by the Petitioner, for Dissolution of Marriage and for other relief; and that said suit is now pending.

Now, therefore, unless you, the said Respondent, file your response to said Petition or otherwise make your appearance therein, in the Office of the Clerk of the Circuit Court of Cook County, Illinois, Room 802, Richard J. Daley Center, 50 West Washington

Street, in the City of Chicago, Illinois, on or before February 24, 2023, default may be entered against you at any time after that day, and a judgment for Dissolution of Marriage entered in accordance with the prayer of said Petition.

ANDREA LYNN CHASTEEN, Clerk.

Published in Wednesday Journal January 25, February 1, 8, 2023

PUBLIC NOTICE

ADVERTISEMENT FOR BIDS

The Chicago Zoological Society invites qualified bidders to bid on the Spring 2023 - 7 Seas Roof Renovation Project at the Brookfield Zoo. A mandatory pre-bid meeting for the purpose of obtaining pertinent information in regard to the scope of work will be held on Friday, January 27th at 9:00 a.m. at the South Entrance located at 3300 Golf Road, Brookfield, IL. Project information may be obtained via email inquiry to Melissa.

Lewkowich@CZS.org on Wednesday, January 25th. Sealed bids are due on Thursday February 8th, 2023 by 12:00PM. The Illinois Department of Natural Resources is responsible for partial financing of this project through grant funding.

January 2023

Published in RB Landmark January 25, 2023

PUBLIC NOTICE

NOTICE TO CONTRACTORS

VILLAGE OF NORTH RIVERSIDE 2.5 MG STANDPIPE PAINTING West of 2500 S. Harlem Avenue

I. TIME AND PLACE OF OPENING OF BIDS: Sealed Proposals for the improvement described herein will be received at the office of the Village Clerk, Village of North Riverside, 2401 S. Des Plaines Avenue, North Riverside, IL 60546, until 2:00 p.m., February 6, 2023, and will be publicly opened and read at that time.

II. DESCRIPTION OF WORK: Consists of sand cleaning, priming, painting and chlorinating of a standpipe steel water storage tank, and all work included in the Specifications. The tank to be painted is a steel standpipe tank, which has a capacity of 2,500,00 gallons and is located just west of the northwest corner of the Costco building at 2500 S. Harlem Avenue.

III. INSTRUCTIONS TO BIDDERS:

A. Proposal forms are available for download only from QuestCDN via the Novotny Engineering website, http://novotnyengineering.com, “Bidding” tab, for a non-refundable charge of $30.00. Please contact Novotny Engineering (630-887-8640) to obtain the QuestCDN password. Proposal forms are non-transferable. Only those Proposals that have been obtained from, and with the approval of, Novotny Engineering will be accepted at the bid opening.

B. Proposal forms will be given only to qualified painting Contractors who can furnish proof that they have satisfactorily performed work of a similar nature. Bidder shall submit, as part of his bid, a list of at least five (5) tanks of 750,000 gallons capacity or more and similar painting requirements, completed by the Bidder within the last five (5) years. Also, Bidder shall provide documentation as to all steel tank painting work performed within a minimum of the last five (5) years.

C. The Bidder shall also submit with his bid, or within forty-eight (48) hours thereafter, evidence that he has the necessary environmental protection plans in effect for worker and environmental protection and safety.

D. All Proposals must be accompanied by a Bank Cashier’s Check, Bank Draft, Certified Check, or Bid Bond for not less than five percent (5%) of the total amount of the Bid, or as provided in the applicable sections of the “Standard Specifications”

E. No Bid may be withdrawn after opening of Proposals without the consent of the Owner for a period of sixty (60) days after the scheduled time of opening of Bids.

F. The Contractor will be required to furnish a labor and material “Performance Bond” in the full amount of the Contract.

G. The Contractor will be required to pay Prevailing Wages in accordance with all applicable laws.

IV. REJECTION OF BIDS: The Owner reserves the right to reject any or all Proposals, to waive technicalities, and to accept the Proposal deemed to be most favorable to the Owner.

BY ORDER OF: VILLAGE OF NORTH RIVERSIDE PRESIDENT & BOARD OF TRUSTEES Kathy Ranieri (s) Village Clerk

Published in RB Landmark January 25, 2023

PUBLIC NOTICES

PUBLIC NOTICE

Notice is hereby given, pursuant to “An Act in relation to the use of an Assumed Business Name in the conduct or transaction of Business in the State,” as amended, that a certification was registered by the undersigned with the County Clerk of Cook County. Registration Number: Y22009998 on December 28, 2022. Under the Assumed Business Name of BEYOND THE NUMBERS with the business located at: 855 N PARKSIDE AVE APT 1R, CHICAGO, IL. The true and real full name(s) and residence address of the owner(s)/ partner(s) is: DANAE ROSARIO 855 N PARKSIDE AVE APT 1R, CHICAGO, IL

Published in Wednesday Journal January 11, 18, 25, 2023

PUBLIC NOTICES

PUBLIC NOTICES PUBLIC NOTICES REAL ESTATE FOR SALE REAL ESTATE FOR SALE PUBLIC NOTICES

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF COOK COUNTY, ILLINOIS

LEGAL NOTICE

The Village of Oak Park will receive sealed bids from qualified vendors at the Public Works Center, 201 South Boulevard, Oak Park, Illinois 60302 Monday through Friday, 7:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. local time until 2:00 p.m. on Friday, February 3, 2023 for the following:

Village of Oak Park Roland SG3-540 54” Print and Cut Combo Device Bid Number: 23-110

Bid documents may be obtained from the Village’s website at http://www.oak-park.us/bid For questions, please call Public Works at (708) 358-5700 during the above hours.

Published in Wednesday Journal January 25, 2023

REAL ESTATE FOR SALE

LEGAL NOTICE

The Village of Oak Park --Office of the Village Engineer, 201 South Boulevard, Oak Park, Illinois 60302-- will receive electronic proposals until 10:00 a.m. on Thursday February 16, 2023 for Project: 22-8, Forest and Ontario Traffic Calming. Bids will be received and accepted, and bid results posted via the online electronic bid service listed below. In general, the improvements will require the following construction: light pole removal and replacement; electrical cable and conduit installation; asphalt pavement milling and replacement; brick paver sidewalk and crosswalk removal and replacement; concrete sidewalk removal and replacement; concrete curb and gutter removal and replacement; signage; pavement strping; landscaping; traffic control; and all appurtenant work thereto. The work will take place on Ontario Street and Forest Avenue in the Village of Oak Park, Cook County, beginning East of Marion Street to South of the Austin Gardens Park Alley on Forest Avenue.

Plans and proposal forms may be obtained via the electronic service starting on Thursday, January 26th, at 4:00 p.m. Plans and

proposal forms can be found at https://www.oak-park.us/yourgovernment/budget-purchasing/ requests-proposals or at www. questcdn.com under login using QuestCDN number 8377519 for a non-refundable charge of $64.00. The Village of Oak Park reserves the right to issue plans and specifications only to those contractors deemed qualified. No bid documents will be issued after 4:00 p.m. on the working day preceding the date of bid opening.

All prospective bidders must prove they are pre-qualified in either the HMA Paving or Concrete Construction category by the Illinois Department of Transportation by providing a certificate of eligibility with their bid submittal.

This project is financed with federal Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) funds and thus is subject to all federal rules, regulations and guidelines, including Davis-Bacon and Related Acts, Section 3, and Equal Opportunity requirements.

THE VILLAGE OF OAK PARK Bill McKenna Village Engineer

Published in Wednesday Journal, January 25, 2023

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

FIFTH THIRD BANK NA; Plaintiff, vs. CITIZENS BANK NA FORMERLY KNOWN AS RBS CITIZENS NA SUCCESSOR BY MERGER TO CHARTER ONE BNAK NA; JOEL A. VERHOFF; RAELIN M. VERHOFF; RANDOLPH CROSSING CONDOMINIUM ASSOCIATION; UNKNONW OWNERS AND NONRECORD CLAIMANTS; Defendants, 22 CH 6637

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, February 21, 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. 16-07-408-026-1012. Commonly known as 612 RANDOLPH STREET, UNIT #2, 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 The Sales Department at Plaintiff’s Attorney, Diaz Anselmo & Associates, P.A., 1771 West Diehl Road, Naperville, Illinois 60563. (630) 453-6925. 6722185734

INTERCOUNTY JUDICIAL SALES CORPORATION intercountyjudicialsales.com I3211098

COUNTY DEPARTMENT - CHANCERY DIVISION WELLS FARGO BANK, N.A. Plaintiff, -v.UNKNOWN HEIRS AND/OR LEGATEES OF LAURA RIZZARDINI, DECEASED, DANIEL ROBERT RIZZARDINI, JOHN LOUIS RIZZARDINI, JOAN R. RINELLA, DAMON RITTENHOUSE, AS SPECIAL REPRESENTATIVE FOR LAURA RIZZARDINI, DECEASED, OAK PARK PLACE CONDOMINIUM ASSOCIATION, ALPINE CAPITAL INVESTMENTS LLC, STATE OF ILLINOIS, UNKNOWN OWNERS AND NON-RECORD CLAIMANTS, UNKNOWN OCCUPANTS Defendants 20 CH 2480

420 SOUTH HOME AVENUE UNIT 107N OAK PARK, IL 60302

NOTICE OF SALE

PUBLIC NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale entered in the above cause on October 26, 2022, an agent for The Judicial Sales Corporation, will at 10:30 AM on February 16, 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 420 SOUTH HOME AVENUE UNIT 107N, OAK PARK, IL 60302

Property Index No. 16-07-324-0331007

The real estate is improved with a condominium.

The judgment amount was $63,816.46.

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 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, contact The sales clerk, LOGS Legal Group LLP Plaintiff’s Attorneys, 2121 WAUKEGAN RD., SUITE 301, Bannockburn, IL, 60015 (847) 291-1717 For information call between the hours of 1pm - 3pm.. Please refer to file number 20-093376.

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.

LOGS Legal Group LLP 2121 WAUKEGAN RD., SUITE 301 Bannockburn IL, 60015 847-291-1717

E-Mail: ILNotices@logs.com Attorney File No. 20-093376 Attorney Code. 42168 Case Number: 20 CH 2480 TJSC#: 42-4228

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 # 20 CH 2480 I3210947

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