e village aims for transparency about the total cost
By TRENT BROWN Staff Reporter
The Riverside village board has approved increases to six kinds of fees across village de partments that will go into effect on New Year’s Day.
At the board’s Nov. 21 meeting, Finance Director Yvette Zavala asked the board to approve the raises to fees related to zoning variance requests, certificates of occupancy and compliance, temporary right-of-way permits, public safety staffing at special events, false alarms for public safety and turning on water after business hours. Trustees are expected to pass an ordinance for malizing the changes at an upcoming meeting. Most of the increases are less than $100, but the
Patty Miglore - Aunt Diana’s
Riverside and Brookfield need local news
The Landmark needs the support of our readers
Since it was launched in 1985, the Landmark has had three owners. Jim Finnegan started the paper. He sold it to Judy Baar Topinka, yes that Judy Baar, the lifelong Riversider and longtime state treasurer! And in 1997 she sold it to Wednesday Journal, Inc. Through all those years, the Landmark covered hard news stories and we’ve told stories about neighbors and friends. Always, the Landmark has been at ground level with reporters and editors serving up authentic and always independent news.
Not every town has such a local news source these days. Thousands of weekly newspapers have closed across America over the past two decades. There are 60% fewer reporters at work than at the turn of the century.
It’s grim. Especially in a moment when people need news they can trust, reporters they get to know, can send an email that gets answered.
Back in 2019, the Landmark and our sister pubs at Wednesday Journal of Oak Park and River Forest, the Austin Weekly News and the Forest Park Review made a big bet. Really it was a big bet on you, as one of our readers.
We created a nonprofit, reader supported newsroom and we named it Growing Community Media for all the obvious reasons. These days we still sell ads and we sell print subscriptions. But we also rely on readers who value our work to become active supporters of this newsroom.
And it is working. Across our four flags, thousands of readers are now investing in our hard-working reporters, in our digital efforts, in reporting stories that no one else is covering across our nine neighborhoods.
Join them as we work to raise a considerable amount of money before 2024 closes. Every dollar is valued. Every reader is valued.
Retailers push on despite ‘meh’ Small Business Saturday
Local businesses battle frigid temperatures for holiday shopping success
By GREGG VOSS Contributing Reporter
For small businesses in Riverside and Brookfield, Small Business Saturday was an understated affair, partly due to temperatures that topped out at about 20 degrees and kept people off the streets.
Still, those businesses made do the day after Black Friday, and had some fun doing it.
Take Mike Doer r, whose title is chief executive drummer at Sound Education, 9433 Ogden Ave. in Brookfield. His store specializes in music lessons but retails guitars and other instruments.
“What we’re doing to help generate customers and sales and stuf f like that is we’re actually having a coat drive this weekend,” Doerr said. “Any customer that brings in a coat, hats or gloves, we give them 15% of f any item in the store.”
According to the U.S. Small Business Administration, the reported projected spending in the nation in 2023 from those who shopped at local businesses on Small Business Saturday was about $17 billion. Small Business Saturday was started by American Express in 2010 and cosponsored by the U.S. SBA since 2011.
That’s the financial part. The practical part, for Doer r, is helping his customers make the right choice for the instrument they want to play.
Sure, you can buy anything on the Internet, but what do you really get beyond the product itself, which may or may not be in good working order when it arrives?
“If you want to buy a phone or a computer or something, Amazon is great, but if you’ re buying a stringed instrument, all the instruments we sell here, we look at, we put it on a bench, [get it] set up and tuned,” he said. “Right out of the store, you have something that’s playable, it’s going to stay in tune for you.
“A lot of the guitars you see shipped to you are going to be not set up and are going to
have a hard time staying in tune. So, buying from us, you’ll have a technician look at the guitar, or any other instrument, before you take it home.”
Over in Riverside, at Aunt Diana’s Old Fashioned Fudge, 29 East Burlington, manager Patty Miglore said traffic had been slow Saturday, but for a good reason.
“Not with this weather,” she said Saturday morning. “Normally it is very busy, but right now … wait until the mid-afternoon, they might come out about two o’clock.”
Despite the cold, a steady stream of customers did make their way into the shop, which offers everything from tasty cookies such as Nantuckets to caramel apples to fudge houses and sleighs, and of course, lots and lots of candy.
What’s the most enjoyable thing about creating all those delectable treats?
“I made it,” Miglore deadpanned
Business this year has been pretty good, she added. Check that.
“Very good,” she said. “We’re happy. We’ve still got jobs.”
Heading back outside, though, there was minimal foot traffic in downtown Riverside, particularly in the area near the train station and water tower. This differed from Oak Park, which offered Keep the Cheer Here, a shoplocal small business event that was promoted at the website KeepTheCheerHere.org.
The event was brokered by a partnership between the village and the Oak Park-River Forest chamber of commerce, said Emily Egan, Oak Park director of development services. It included a new program where shoppers could buy gift cards to support local businesses, including retailers and restaurants.
The event was a big success, judging by local business reaction, Egan said, though it took over three months to plan out, a gambit that was “very aggressive.”
The event was brokered by a partnership between the village and the Oak Park-River Forest chamber of commerce, said Emily Egan, Oak Park director of development services. It included a new program where shoppers could buy gift cards to support local businesses, including retailers and restaurants.
The event was a big success, judging by local business reaction, Egan said, though it took over three months to plan out, a gambit
Mike Doerr - Sound Education
that was “very aggressive.”
GREGG VOSS
The Riverside Chamber of Commerce noted that its 2024 Holiday Stroll will be held on Friday, Dec. 6, with visitors able to visit businesses in Centennial Plaza/East Avenue/North Longcommon; the train station; the library and village hall; Quincy Street South; Riverside Road/Quincy Street North; and Burlington Street North and South. Horse and car riage rides will be stationed near Riverside Foods, 48 E. Burlington. A re presentative from the village of Brookfield Chamber of Commerce confirmed no special event was held there.
Businesses like the Brookfield Barber, 8840 Brookfield Ave., didn’t offer specials for Small Business Saturday, but owner Sarah Meyer said she made many social media posts supporting area small businesses, because it only helps her business
“I get so excited to talk to a small business owner,” she said. “There is a lot of pressure to succeed. I see my employees as people I have to take care of, and that’s a heavy pressure.”
Lauren Zito, whose alter ego is The Razor Babe, rents a chair at Brookfield Barber, and she wholeheartedly agreed with Meyer “I am trying to support small businesses myself,” Zito said. “It is a make or break for some around this time of year. I even do promotion for my clients, if you buy a product from me, you get one half off. All the products I sell. I just want my clients to buy from small businesses.”
Editor Erika Hobbs
Staff Repor ter Trent Brown
Digital Manager Stacy Coleman
Digital Media Coordinator Brooke Duncan
Contributing Editor Donna Greene
Design/Production Manager Andrew Mead
Editorial Design Manager Javier Govea
Designers Susan McKelvey, Vanessa Garza
Marketing & Adver tising Associate Ben Stumpe
Senior Media Strategist Lourdes Nicholls
Business & Development Manager
Mary Ellen Nelligan
Circulation Manager Jill Wagner
EMAIL jill@oakpark.com
Publisher Dan Haley
Special Projects Manager Susan Walker
BOARD OF DIREC TORS
Chair Eric Weinheimer Treasurer Nile Wendor f Deb Abrahamson, Gary Collins, Steve Edwards, Judy Gre n, Horacio Mendez, Charles Meyerson
Ever wonder why we do what we do during the Christmas season? I mean really, who woke up and decided Santa was going to be in a red suit? If you attend this event, you will get all the answers to why we send Christmas Cards, who had the 1st modern Christmas tree, and more! Here’s a hint: All of these traditions have their roots in Victorian times. 3541 Park Ave.
Our final Big Week will run on December 18. Don’t worry! We have more events coverage coming soon. For a sneak peak, and to submit events to be included in our new calendar, visit rblandmark.com/events
BIG WEEK
December 4-11
holidays like Christmas, Diwali, Hanukkah, and Kwanzaa. This event is perfect for all ages and a wonder ful way to learn about di erent traditions Presented by the nonpro t Stand Up To Hate. Registration is required by calling 708-442-6366 or visiting www.riversidelibrar y.org. 1 Burling Rd.
Compiled by Grace Har ty
Breakfast With Santa
Dec. 8, 9 - 11 a.m., Village Commons
Pom-Pom Penguins
Wednesday, Dec. 4, 4 to 5 p.m., LSF Brookfield Library
Join the library on Wednesday for a teen craft, because what teen doesn’t like to get crafty once in a while? This week ’s craft are pom-pom penguins Make your own penguin as it star ts to get chillier and chillier outside. Walk-ins are welcome but register online, in person, or over the phone at 708-485-6917. 3541 Park Ave.
The State of Illinois’ Colleges
Thursday, Dec. 5, 6:30 p.m., Zoom
The Village Commons invite you for a jolly good time at Breakfast with Santa this tendees… I mean elves … will be served three u y pancakes, two sizzling sausages, and beverages. At this breakfast, your family can meet the one and only Santa Claus while playing games to win sweet, sweet prizes in Candy Cane Lane. Pre-register to secure your spot. For more information visit https://www. northriverside-il.org. The Fee ranges from $15 to $17. 2401 DesPlaines Ave.
What ’s going on with higher education in Illinois? Join the League of Women Voters of Illinois on Thursday, Dec. 5 at 6:30 pm to hear from Ralph Martire, professor of public polic y at Roosevelt University and executive direc tor of the Center for Tax and Budget Accountability. Martire will discuss the state of colleges in Illinois, from school funding to equal access This virtual event will take place via Zoom. Register to attend at //bit.ly/iade125.
First- degree murder charge for suspect in detective’s death
e suspect has extensive criminal record
By DAN HALEY Publisher
Je rr ell T homas, 37, has b een c harge d with first-de gr ee murder in the Nov. 29 death of Oak Pa rk police detective Allan Re ddin s. A Chicago r esident, T homas has an extensive c riminal backgr ound includin g ar rests for ag gr avated battery to a p olice officer, domestic battery, battery and resisting a police of ficer.
The Cook County State’s Attorney’s Office charged Thomas with firstdegree murder in the line-of-duty death of Reddins. Thomas has also attempted murder of a peace officer, possession of a stolen firearm and unlawful use of a weapon by a felon.
Reddins, 40, was shot Friday, Nov. 29 when Reddins and other officers responded to a police call after Thomas was reportedly seen
leaving the Chase Bank on Lake Street with a gun. The shooting took place on the 800 block of Lake Street.
Reddins, who was shot on his left side, was taken to Loyola Medical Center and was pronounced dead at 10:10 a.m. Friday. Thomas, of the 4100 block of West Cermak Road in Chicago, was shot in the leg, treated on the scene and then was transported to Loyola where he is in stable condition. No bond hearing has been set while he remains hospitalized.
The village government reported Saturday that an investigation shows that as ddins and other officers approached homas, he failed comply with officers’ directives and an to shoot, strikReddins on the side of his body ddins had been a member of the department since 2019 and was promoted to detective in 2022.
Reddins was the first Oak Park police officer to die in the line of duty since 1938.
Following Oak Park police policy, the Illinois State Police Public Integrity Task Force was called in to assist with the investigation of the shooting.
Ending hunger by connecting the four corners of our community...
lope. It comes to you from all of us at the Riverside-Brookfield Landmark with the hope you will become supporters of our reader suppor ted newsroom.
The future of authentic local news depends
What is our community 's north star?
What is our community 's north star?
The lines have grown longer at our food pantry...
The lines have grown longer at our food pantry...
Over 7,000 people are living below the poverty line in our pantry ’s assigned region. The reasons for this are many. But research has found that stigmatization and systemic injustice are major factors So, there may always be those who question the purpose of charities like ours . And there may always be those who say that too many undeserving people are just “gaming the system”. But being closer to the truth, we have witnessed a contrary and deserving point of view...
Over 7,000 people are living below the poverty line in our pantry ’s assigned region. The reasons for this are many. But research has found that stigmatization and systemic injustice are major factors . So, there may always be those who question the purpose of charities like ours And there may always be those who say that too many undeserving people are just “gaming the system”. But being closer to the truth, we have witnessed a contrary and deserving point of view
“I have been with people in line sometimes, and people drive by saying, beggars! Moochers! I look at them and I think , you idiot . You have to go through what I did when I was 17 and 18. I spent 13 months in a combat zone . I have a diagnosis of severe PTSD depression.”
“I have been with people in line sometimes, and people drive by saying, beggars! Moochers! I look at them and I think , you idiot . You have to go through what I did when I was 17 and 18. I spent 13 months in a combat zone . I have a diagnosis of severe PTSD depression.”
– SFSL Neighbor in need
– SFSL Neighbor in need
Stigmatization is a communicable disease .
Stigmatization is a communicable disease .
Every community, every charitable organization, is challenged to overcome cynicism that comes from the outside But what happens when that same cynicism comes from within?
Every community, every charitable organization, is challenged to overcome cynicism that comes from the outside. But what happens when that same cynicism comes from within?
" You're already in a bad situation, in a bad place ... and some of the people can be so rude and so mean. And I'm talking about the volunteers that work at some places . You're already feeling a certain kind of way and they kind of make you feel even worse ..."
" You're already in a bad situation, in a bad place ... and some of the people can be so rude and so mean. And I'm talking about the volunteers that work at some places . You're already feeling a certain kind of way and they kind of make you feel even worse ..."
– SFSL Neighbor in need
– SFSL Neighbor in need
What difference can a food pantry or a community make?
What difference can a food pantry or a community make?
“I didn' t think I'd ever have to go to a food pantry. They (Share Food Share Love) don' t make you feel like you don' t deserve to come . They don' t feel like you are using them. They 're always there to help. So, it 's just ... it doesn' t make you feel ashamed. That 's about the only way I can put it .” – SFSL Neighbor in need
“I didn' t think I'd ever have to go to a food pantry. They (Share Food Share Love) don' t make you feel like you don' t deserve to come . They don' t feel like you are using them. They 're always there to help. So, it 's just ... it doesn' t make you feel ashamed. That 's about the only way I can put it .” – SFSL Neighbor in need
Get the facts about hunger in our area...
Get the facts about hunger in our area...
ALLAN REDDINS JERRELL THOMAS
Ending hunger by connecting the four corners of our community
Stay Healthy This Fall YOUR BEST LIFE with Lisa Capone
As temperatures dip and the air turns crisp, seniors need to take extra steps to stay healthy and comfortable through the colder months. Fall brings beautiful scenery but also an increase in flu and seasonal illnesses. Staying healthy during colder months is all about a proactive approach to wellness. Here are a few simple tips to help keep you feeling your best this season.
First, consider scheduling a flu vaccine. The flu can pose serious health risks, especially for seniors, and getting vaccinated reduces your chances of severe illness.
Staying active is also key. While outdoor walks might be brisk, indoor activities like stretching, gentle yoga, or using light hand weights are great ways to keep muscles strong and joints flexible. Even 15-20 minutes a day can boost energy and mood!
Finally, focus on seasonal foods that support immunity. Fall’s harvest —pumpkins, squash, and apples—are packed with vitamins that can help your body fend off seasonal bugs. Adding warm soups and stews with these ingredients provides both comfort and nutrition.
By taking these steps, you can enjoy the beauty of fall while staying well and thriving all season long!
Chicago couple arrested after setting fire to a car, reporting it missing
Riverside police arrested two Chicago residents Nov. 21 for an arson that occurred in town in 2023.
On May 25, 2023, police were dispatched around 11:04 p.m. to the corner of Selborne and Lindberg roads, where they saw a car on fire. Officers ran the license plates and learned it was registered in Mount Prospect. A resident on the 700 block of Selborne Road provided police with doorbell camera footage, which showed a man parking the car around 9:13 p.m. before he lit the front driver’s seat on fire at 9:18 p.m. and left toward Lindberg Road
Later that day, police contacted the Chicago resident who owned the bur nt vehicle, who said she had just reported the car as stolen to Chicago police. The woman told Riverside police she had parked the car in front of her new residence the night before but discovered it was missing after returning from work, which she drove to in her other car. Riverside police said they “did not detect any concern” in the woman’s voice that her car was suspected to be stolen and had been found on fire.
Police ran the bur nt car’s license plates and found it had been captured on camera driving around Berwyn the night of the arson, first at the intersection of Oak Park Avenue and Roosevelt Road around 8:37 p.m. and twice at the intersection of Harlem Avenue and 16th Street around 8:53 and 8:56 p.m., just 25 minutes before Riverside police spoke with the car owner.
In all three instances, the car was followed by the same kind of car the woman said she had used to drive to work; police ran its license plates and found it was registered to a Chicago man at the address the woman gave as her new residence.
On May 31, a judge approved Riverside police’s search warrant for the bur nt car, but an agent from the Illinois State Fire Marshal’s Office did not find any accelerant that could have started the fire but advised that they had heard of Heet brand antifreeze, which cannot be detected as an accelerant, being used to start car fires
According to police, video footage showed the woman’s car, followed by the man’s car, traveling south from the intersection of Harlem and Cermak avenues before passing Lalo’s on Harlem Avenue before turning east onto 31st Street around 11 p.m. Around 9:11 p.m., the man’s car, now followed by the woman’s car, was seen heading north on Harlem
Avenue and turning onto Lindberg Road. The man’s car stopped on Lindberg Road while the woman’s car continued west; the man’s car was then parked on Lindberg Road with its lights off until 9:19 p.m., when its lights turned back on and it left the scene.
Riverside police spoke with a representative of Geico, which the woman used for car insurance, who said she had changed her auto policy on May 4, 2023.
Police had obtained search warrants for the woman’s phone records, which showed the woman called the man’s phone twice after speaking to police the night of the arson.
Riverside also obtained search warrants for the location records of both people’s phones, which showed both devices had hit off cell phone towers near the intersection of Selborne and Lindberg roads around the time of the arson before they moved together toward the Chicago police station where the woman had reported her car missing
On July 10, 2023, Riverside police invited
the woman to the North Riverside Police Department to speak about the case, where they arrested her and seized her phone. They obtained a search warrant for the phone the next day after releasing the woman but could not unlock it.
After investigating further, Riverside police learned the woman’s car had struck a pedestrian in a crosswalk in a hit and r un incid ent in Chicago the morning of May 25, 2023, the same day as the arson. Text records b etween the man and woman tha t p olice obtained showe d the woman had texted the man an article about an arson in Chicago on May 24, 2023.
On Nov. 21, 2024, Rive rside p olice learned the man had a scheduled c our t a ppearance in Chicago in reference to an ar r est in the city in Au g ust. Police responded to the c ourthouse and ar r ested the man and the woman, who was ther e
See POLICE REPORTS on page 20
Alliance to End Homelessness in Suburban Cook County receives $2.5M grant
e grant comes from the Bezos Day 1 Families Fund
By LUZANE DRAUGHON Staff Reporter
Jeff Bezos, executive chairman of Amazon, and Lauren Sánchez, an American media personality, donated $2.5 million through the Bezos Day 1 Families Fund to the Alliance to End Homelessness in Suburban Cook County.
The Alliance to End Homelessness in Suburban Cook County is a nonprofit organization that coordinates homelessnessrelated services and housing options for Cook County outside of Chicago. That includes 130 suburbs, or approximately 2.5 million people.
The Bezos Day 1 Families Fund issues annual awards to organizations doing
work to help families experiencing homelessness. According to its website, nearly $750 million has been donated since 2018. In 2024, $110.5 million has been donated to 40 groups. The goal of the fund, according to an Alliance news release, is to ensure that no child sleeps outside.
“With the support of the Day 1 Families Fund, we and our partners will be better positioned to connect families to the housing and supports they need to end their housing crisis and give their children every chance to thrive,” Jennifer Hill, executive director of the Alliance, said in the release
A group of experts on family homelessness and its solutions help choose the organizations selected for funding, according to the Alliance news release.
According to the news release, family homelessness rose from 2022 to 2023 in the United States. And families represent more than 28% of the country’s unhoused popula-
tion, according to the National Alliance to End Homelessness’ 2024 report.
“With its one-time Day 1 Families Fund grant, the Alliance will work to reverse this national trend by serving families experiencing homelessness in suburban Cook County,” according to the release
The Alliance plans to use the grant dollars for innovative housing solutions for families experiencing either unsheltered or sheltered homelessness through street outreach, emergency shelter, flexible rental assistance and other services.
“I am honored to share in this work of supporting unhoused families and children,” Monique Williams, a board member of the Alliance, said in the release. “Having personally experienced the challenges of homelessness, I understand the depth and profound impact this funding will have on families at a time when housing affordability continues to be a critical issue in our community.”
A Sofa for Christmas
Recently while having cocktails with friends the conversation turned to what we wanted for Christmas. One of my Girlfriends blurted out, ‘I really want a new sofa for Christmas … and a new comfy chair in the bedroom. I know it’s not sexy but it’s what I want.”
As the owner of a furniture store I think sofas and chairs are sexy no matter what time of year. But it got me thinking, how many others out there are happy with their handbag collection and instead of a piece of jewelry really want a nice new piece of furniture?
Being a business owner I grabbed my phone, went to our website and showed her over 200 pieces of brand new, never used sofas, chairs, tables and more. She found a couple pieces she loved so I made a note and promised to follow up with Santa aka her husband.
Whether a sofa is on your Christmas Wishlist or part of your 2025 Remodel plans, give our website a look under BRAND NEW INVENTORY or better yet come and see us in our 25,000 SF store located at 1800 S. Harlem Ave. North Riverside, IL.
Kellie Scott, Owner Divine Consign
from page 1
de posits for zoning variances will go up by $1,500 at minimum de pending on the nature of the variance. All of the increases are intended to align the fees with the costs each request incurs on Riverside and those found in nearby municipalities, Zavala said.
“These are all fees that the vast majority of residents will never see,” said Village President Douglas Pollock at the meeting. “It’s only when you come to the village and ask for a [zoning] variation or if you have a fire alarm that goes of f. It’s costing the village money, and either the taxpayers are paying for it through their property taxes, or the person asking for the specific service is paying for it. T he philosophy of the village has always been that, if you’ re asking for something unique like this, to the best of our ability, you should be the one paying for it, not your neighbors We’re updating those fees to actually cover real costs.”
Zoning requests
Across the board, individuals seeking zoning variances had to pay $1,000 deposits as of this year. Next year, those deposits will range in cost from $2,500 to $5,000 depending on the kind of variation.
Requests for residential variations, text amendments to the zoning code and subdivisions — that is, splitting a parcel of land into multiple parcels — will require a $2,500 deposit. The same deposit is necessary to appeal the village’s decision on a zoning request.
Anyone requesting a special use on a property outside of those re gularly permitted in the property’s district will have to pay $3,000 upfront.
Requests for variations to a commercial property will require a de posit of $5,000.
“The village finds that, more often than not, staf f is required to bill applicants for additional incurred costs for zoning requests, no matter whether there is a successful outcome,” Zavala said. “Residential variation requests [require] a $1,000 deposit, and we’re seeing staf f is having to bill another additional $1,000 on top of that, which comes like a sticker shock to the resident requesting this … With these
increases, we are anticipating the resident will receive a refund of whatever’s left of the deposit after expenses are paid instead of receiving an additional bill.”
Trustee Cristin Evans asked why staf f were pursuing such a drastic increase to the deposits.
“There used to be a fee plus a deposit. We no longer do the fee; it’s just the deposit, and then we track staff time, legal cost, mailing, publication costs, and we draw down on those balances,” Village Manager Jessica Frances said in response. “The costs haven’ t necessarily changed. We’ve just been balance billing, and there is a frustration among residents [and] business owners that are going through this process, even though we’re completely transparent when they star t the process that this is a deposit, and once it is utilized, [they]’ ll be billed for any additional resources.”
Pollock noted that the requests will not ultimately cost more next year than this year
“Just to be clear, this particular item is not a fee increase,” he said. “People will still be paying the same; we’ll just be getting the money upfront rather than billing them after the fact.”
O ther fee increases
After zoning in on the variance request deposits, the village board quickly approved the other increases to fees Zavala said staf f recommended.
The fees to request public safety personnel at a special event in Riverside are increasing from $85 per hour to $97 per hour for police staff and from $25 per hour to $79 per hour for fire department staf f.
“When special events are held throughout the village, the party or org anization hosting the event can request for police or fire personnel to be present. Village administration will also deter mine, based on certain criteria, if safety personnel are needed for the event,” Zavala said. “The cu rrent rate is not aligned with the salary expense of swor n police of ficer and fire staf fing.”
The cost to residents for false alarm calls to the police or fire departments will apply after two instances rather than after three. Now, all fees for false alar ms are just $50, but Zavala said staff recommended charging residents more for unnecessary calls to the fire department than to
See ZONING on pa ge 20 Presented by Brook eld
Chamber of Commerce Business Spotlight
The 2nd Annual Kris Kringle Market in Brook eld is shaping up to be a festive extravaganza that promises to outshine its inaugural year. Imagine strolling through a winter wonderland with a warm, newly designed 16oz mug in hand, browsing the wares of over 70 vendors showcasing unique gifts and crafts. Young entrepreneurs will display their innovative spirit, while elf helpers assist in penning wishes to Santa.
Capture the holiday spirit at our antique truck holiday backdrop, creating memories that will last a lifetime. The fun begins at 10am, but that’s just the start; at 2pm trolley
rides begin in town o ering a charming view of the town showing o wood carvings, a petting zoo , and family activities abound. Don’t miss the opportunity for a cherished photo with Santa himself.
The day culminates in the glow of the tree-lighting ceremony in front of the historic Grossdale Station, a moment of community pride and joy. This enchanting day is brought to you by the dedicated e orts of the Brook eld Chamber of Commerce and the Village of Brook eld, ensuring a holiday celebration that will be remembered for years to come.
What does “client choice” mean? And why the change?
Mneighbors in need. Which is the point of view upon which our food pantry was founded.
What our neighbors in need are saying...
ost food pantries in the U.S. pre-bag or pre-box the food they distribute. This model has been widely accepted for its operational efficiency. But in recent years, some food pantries have transitioned to a “client choice” distribution model. We believe in “choice”.
We’re converting a 7,000 square foot former factory building into a “choice” food pantry. We’re doing this based on our own local research. And what we found is that the question of choice goes beyond matters of operational efficiency. Choice takes the point of view of our
“We get what we like, instead of them giving it to us in a bag. It’s like if you’re shopping at a grocery store. You pick what you need. What you want. If I don’t like a certain kind of bread, I just don’t take it.”
“I literally felt like I’m in a grocery store and I’m picking the food. Food I couldn’t even afford to get in a grocery store. And then when we get to the end of the checkout, I don’t hve to pay. I’ve never had this happen to me before.”
”It gives people self-pride. I didn’t think I’d ever have to go to a food pantry. And they always try to get different things, different vegetables, different fruit. So, it doesn’t make you feel ashamed.”
The Foundation was created by the community, for the community. Join us to build a racially just society in which all members of our community thrive and prosper. Together we can invest in real change.
Please give to our annual fund today.
■
Brook eld Holiday Celebration PAGE 14
Holida y Stroll 2024
Santa Claus and children celebrate the Christmas tree lighting during last year’s Holiday Stroll. | TODD BANNOR
Walking through a vintage wonderland
Annual Riverside Holiday Stroll packed with family activities, music and fun
By JACKIE PISANO Contributing Reporter
For nearly 50 years, Riverside’s Holiday Stroll has been a beloved local tradition of camaraderie and Christmas cheer, marking the village’s official kickof f to the holiday season in partnership with the Riverside Chamber of Commerce and local organizations.
And on Friday, Dec. 6, the 49th annual event will be held across Riverside’s downtown and business district from 5:30 p.m. to 9 p.m., providing an evening of yuletide cheer with bustling open houses, entertainment and activities for all ages
Amy Re gan, a Riverside resident and local Realtor who serves on the stroll’s committee, says the event always proves to be “a festive night,” where people not just from Riverside, but the surrounding sub-
urbs come for a friendly, relaxed evening to kickstart their holidays.
“The village is so pretty to see decorated with all of the holiday lights, and people always talk about how they love the horse and car riage rides — they absolutely love it,” she said. “The local shops go all out with their festive treats and the stroll just gives of f a warm glow of the community. It’s the perfect way to kick of f the season, all while supporting Riverside.”
Around 5:30 p.m. is when the magic begins, as Santa and Mrs. Claus arrive atop a fire truck at Centennial Park (Longcommon Road and Forest Avenue), mingling with everyone before helping village officials and kids illuminate the grand Christmas tree at 6 p.m.
Following the tree lighting, stick around the Centennial Plaza/East Avenue/North
See RIVERSIDE on page 16
EVENT HIGHLIGHTS
HOLIDAY TROLLEY STOPS
Complimentary trolley rides
Kris Kringle Market, 10:00am-4:00pm, Brookfield Village Hall
Holiday Walk 2024 mug pick up at Brookfield Chamber tent while supplies last
Giant Inflatable snow globe pictures at SE Gross Carolers & holiday music
SE Gross School Band, 2:00pm-2:30pm, at SE Gross Middle School
SE Gross Choir, 2:40pm-3:00pm, at SE Gross Middle School
Historic Grossdale Station Museum will be open for visitors, 10:00am-4:00pm, $1 Admission
Irish Times Pub & Restaurant Santa Claus meet and greet, 2:00pm-4:30pm Wood carver, 2:00pm-5:00pm, near Grossdale Train Station
LSF Brookfield Library hosting activities include library winter craft activity and hot chocolate
Live petting zoo, 2:00-5:00pm
Betty’s Flower and Gifts, refreshments
EVENT ATTRACTION PLATINUM SPONSORS
SE Gross Gym, activities include iceless skating rink, inflatables and kids activities, 2:00-5:00 pm
First National Bank Brookfield, ice sculptor, 2:00pm-4:00pm
Fill My Jar, holiday character visit and make your own reindeer food
Ink Your Wear, hot chocolate …PLUS MORE throughout town!
EVENT HIGHLIGHTS
Complimentary trolley rides
Kris Kringle Market, 10:00am-4:00pm, Brookfield Village Hall
Holiday Walk 2024 mug pick up at Brookfield Chamber tent while supplies last
Giant Inflatable snow globe pictures at SE Gross Carolers & holiday music
SE Gross School Band, 2:00pm-2:30pm, at SE Gross Middle School
HOLIDAY
SE Gross Choir, 2:40pm-3:00pm, at SE Gross Middle School
Historic Grossdale Station Museum will be open for visitors, 10:00am-4:00pm, $1 Admission
Irish Times Pub & Restaurant Santa Claus meet and greet, 2:00pm-4:30pm
Wood carver, 2:00pm-5:00pm, near Grossdale Train Station
LSF Brookfield Library hosting activities include library winter craft activity and hot chocolate
Live petting zoo, 2:00-5:00pm
Betty’s Flower and Gifts, refreshments
SE Gross Gym, activities include iceless skating rink, inflatables and kids activities, 2:00-5:00 pm
DON’T MISS UPCOMING WINTER/SPRING PARKS AND RECREATION PROGRAMS AND EVENTS.
Come out and celebrate with Santa early for a delicious taco brunch served at our local VFW. We will have crafts, goodies and pictures with Santa from 10am-1pm right before the Trolley route begins. Joshua W. Harris Memorial Brookfield VFW Post 2868, 8844 Ogden Avenue, Brookfield, IL. To RSVP please call 708.485.9670.
The Trolley runs from 3726 Prairie Ave down Grand Blvd. to the Broadway business district. It runs the full length of Broadway Ave. before returning back down Grand Blvd. Trolley takes approximately 25 minutes to return to the trolley stop dependent on the number of riders and traffic flow.
SPONSORS
First National Bank Brookfield, ice sculptor, 2:00pm-4:00pm
DON’T MISS UPCOMING WINTER/SPRING PARKS AND RECREATION PROGRAMS AND EVENTS.
Fill My Jar, holiday character visit and make your own reindeer food
Ink Your Wear, hot chocolate …PLUS MORE throughout town!
SCAN THE QR CODE TO VIEW AND REGISTER
Come out and celebrate with Santa early for a delicious taco brunch served at our local VFW. We will have crafts, goodies
We recommend walking since the trolley can get very busy
SCAN THE QR CODE TO GET THE MOST UP TO DATE
FOR BROOKFIELD! EVENT ATTRACTION PLATINUM SPONSORS
SCAN THE QR CODE TO VIEW AND REGISTER SCAN
SCAN THE QR CODE TO GET THE MOST UP TO DATE INFORMATION FOR THIS YEARS HOLIDAY CELEBRATION
DON’T MISS UPCOMING WINTER/SPRING PARKS AND RECREATION PROGRAMS AND EVENTS.
EVENT HIGHLIGHTS
Complimentary trolley rides
Kris Kringle Market, 10:00am-4:00pm, Brookfield Village Hall
Holiday Celebration
Holiday Walk 2024 mug pick up at Brookfield Chamber tent while supplies last
Giant Inflatable snow globe pictures at SE Gross
Carolers & holiday music
HOLIDAY TROLLEY STOPS
SCAN THE QR CODE TO VIEW AND REGISTER
SATURDAY, DECEMBER 7, 2024
Trolley Stop 1
SE Gross School Band, 2:00pm-2:30pm, at SE Gross Middle School
SE Gross Choir, 2:40pm-3:00pm, at SE Gross Middle School
Activities & Schedule
Historic Grossdale Station Museum will be open for visitors, 10:00am-4:00pm, $1 Admission
Irish Times Pub & Restaurant Santa Claus meet and greet, 2:00pm-4:30pm
Fill My Jar, 3726 Prairie Ave
HOLIDAY TROLLEY STOPS
HOLIDAY TROLLEY STOPS
Grossdale Station
SCAN THE QR CODE TO GET THE MOST UP TO DATE INFORMATION FOR THIS YEARS HOLIDAY CELEBRATION EVENT FOR BROOKFIELD!
Fill My Jar, 3726 Prairie Ave Holiday character visits
UPCOMING
WINTER/SPRING PARKS RECREATION AND EVENTS.
CODE TO VIEW REGISTER
EVENT HIGHLIGHTS
Complimentary trolley rides
Kris Kringle Market, 10:00am-4:00pm, Brookfield Village Hall
Holiday Walk 2024 mug pick up at Brookfield Chamber tent while supplies last
Giant Inflatable snow globe pictures at SE Gross
Carolers & holiday music
SE Gross School Band, 2:00pm-2:30pm, at SE Gross Middle School
SE Gross Choir, 2:40pm-3:00pm, at SE Gross Middle School
The Trolley runs from 3726 Prairie Ave down Grand Blvd. to the Broadway business district. It runs the full length of Broadway Ave. before returning back down Grand Blvd. Trolley takes approximately 25 minutes to return to the trolley stop dependent on the number of riders and traffic flow.
Historic Grossdale Station Museum will be open for visitors, 10:00am-4:00pm, $1 Admission
CODE TO UP TO DATE FOR THIS CELEBRATION BROOKFIELD!
Irish Times Pub & Restaurant Santa Claus meet and greet, 2:00pm-4:30pm Wood carver, 2:00pm-5:00pm, near Grossdale Train Station
LSF Brookfield Library hosting activities include library winter craft activity and hot chocolate
Live petting zoo, 2:00-5:00pm Betty’s Flower and Gifts, refreshments
SE Gross Gym, activities include iceless skating rink, inflatables and kids activities, 2:00-5:00 pm
First National Bank Brookfield, ice sculptor, 2:00pm-4:00pm
Fill My
Ink Your Wear, 8838 Brookfield Ave Hot chocolate
Complimentary trolley rides
EVENT HIGHLIGHTS
Kris Kringle Market, 10:00am-4:00pm, Brookfield Village Hall
Holiday Celebration
Trolley Stop 4
Wood carver, 2:00pm-5:00pm, near Grossdale Train Station
Betty’s Flowers & Gifts, 9138 Broadway Ave
SATURDAY, DECEMBER 7, 2024
LSF Brookfield Library hosting activities include library winter craft activity and hot chocolate
Live petting zoo, 2:00-5:00pm
Petting Zoo at the corner of Grand Boulevard and Washington Avenue, west of Beach Ave BBQ
Betty’s Flower and Gifts, refreshments
Activities & Schedule
SE Gross Gym, activities include iceless skating rink, inflatables and kids activities, 2:00-5:00 pm
Ice Carver @ First National Bank of Brookfield 9136 Washington Ave 2:00 pm - 5:00 pm
Trolley Stop 1
Trolley Stop 4
Fill My Jar, 3726 Prairie Ave
First National Bank Brookfield, ice sculptor, 2:00pm-4:00pm
Betty’s Flower and Gifts, 9138 Broadway Ave Refreshments
Holiday Celebration
Fill My Jar, holiday character visit and make your own reindeer food
Petting Zoo at the corner of Grand Boulevard and Washington Avenue, west of Beach Ave BBQ
SATURDAY, DECEMBER 7, 2024
Trolley Stop 5
Ink Your Wear, hot chocolate …PLUS MORE throughout town!
Historic Grossdale Station, 8820 ½ Brookfield Ave Museum Open 10:00 am - 4:00 pm
Ice Carver @ First National Bank of Brookfield 9136 Washington Ave 2:00 pm - 5:00 pm
S.E. Gross Middle School, 9235 Broadway Ave
DECEMBER 7, 2024
Wood Carver 2:00 pm - 5:00 pm
Tree Lighting Ceremony 5:30 pm - 6:00pm
Betty’s Flower and Gifts, 9138 Broadway Ave Refreshments
Activities & Schedule
Complimentary trolley rides
Brookfield Breakfast, 3755 Grand Blvd
Holiday Walk 2024 mug pick up at Brookfield Chamber tent while supplies last
Kris Kringle Market, 10:00am-4:00pm, Brookfield Village Hall
Trolley Stop 2
Metra Brookfield
Giant Inflatable snow globe pictures at SE Gross Carolers & holiday music
Holiday Walk 2024 mug pick up at Brookfield Chamber tent while supplies last
SE Gross School Band, 2:00pm-2:30pm, at SE Gross Middle School
Giant Inflatable snow globe pictures at SE Gross
SE Gross Choir, 2:40pm-3:00pm, at SE Gross Middle School
Trolley Stop 1
Carolers & holiday music
Fill My Jar, 3726 Prairie Ave
SE Gross School Band, 2:00pm-2:30pm, at SE Gross Middle School
Trolley Stop 2 3735 Grand Blvd
SE Gross Choir, 2:40pm-3:00pm, at SE Gross Middle School
Trolley Stop 3
Historic Grossdale Station Museum will be open for visitors, 10:00am-4:00pm, $1 Admission
Brennan Massage & Spa, 3700 Grand Blvd Offering gift card sales
LSF Brookfield Library, 3609 Grand Blvd
Historic Grossdale Station Museum will be open for visitors, 10:00am-4:00pm, $1 Admission
Trolley Stop 3
Trolley Stop 4
LSF Brookfield Library hosting activities include library winter craft activity and hot chocolate
Come out and celebrate with Santa early for a delicious taco brunch served at our local VFW. We will have crafts, goodies and pictures with Santa from 10am-1pm right before the Trolley route begins. Joshua W. Harris Memorial Brookfield VFW Post 2868, 8844 Ogden Avenue, Brookfield, IL. To RSVP please call 708.485.9670.
Crafts, Inflatables and Fun Activities Inside S.E. Gross Middle School Gym 2:00 pm
and Gifts, 9138 Broadway Ave Refreshments
TREE LIGHTING CEREMONY!
Photos with Santa Claus in The Cottage at Irish Times 8869 Burlington Ave 2:00 pm - 4:30 pm
Fire Breather at Burger Antics 3740 Grand Blvd 2:00 pm - 5:00 pm
AT GROSSDALE STATION 8820 ½ Brookfield Ave
Brennan Massage & Spa, 3700 Grand Blvd Offering gift card sales
Trolley Stop 5
Trolley Stop 5 S.E.
Betty’s Flowers & Gifts, 9138 Broadway Ave
Live petting zoo, 2:00-5:00pm Betty’s Flower and Gifts, refreshments
Irish Times Pub & Restaurant Santa Claus meet and greet, 2:00pm-4:30pm
Linda Sokol Francis Brookfield Library 3609 Grand Blvd (Opposite library parking lot)
Trolley Stop 5
Wood carver, 2:00pm-5:00pm, near Grossdale Train Station
SE Gross Gym, activities include iceless skating rink, inflatables and kids activities, 2:00-5:00 pm
S.E. Gross Middle School 9235 Broadway Ave
Activities for tree lighting begin at 5:30pm with the RBHS choir caroling!
Trolley Stop 3
Linda Sokol Francis Brookfield Library 3609 Grand Blvd (Opposite library parking lot)
First National Bank Brookfield, ice sculptor, 2:00pm-4:00pm
LSF Brookfield Library hosting activities include library winter craft activity and hot chocolate
The library will be offering free hot cocoa in the lobby and crafts for all ages in the Maker Studio
Fill My Jar, holiday character visit and make your own reindeer food
Live petting zoo, 2:00-5:00pm Betty’s Flower and Gifts, refreshments
Ink Your Wear, hot chocolate …PLUS MORE throughout town!
SE Gross Gym, activities include iceless skating rink, inflatables and kids activities, 2:00-5:00 pm
Santa will be arriving via fire truck at 5:45pm where countdown to the lighting of our tree (lighting at 6pm) will begin!
The library will be offering free hot cocoa in the lobby and crafts for all ages in the Maker Studio
TREE LIGHTING CEREMONY! AT GROSSDALE STATION 8820 ½ Brookfield Ave Activities for tree lighting begin at 5:30pm with the RBHS choir caroling! Santa will be arriving via fire truck at 5:45pm where countdown to the
TREE LIGHTING CEREMONY! AT GROSSDALE STATION 8820 ½ Brookfield Ave
Activities for tree lighting begin at 5:30pm with the RBHS choir caroling! Santa will be arriving via fire truck at 5:45pm where countdown to the lighting of our tree (lighting at 6pm) will begin! We
First National Bank Brookfield, ice sculptor, 2:00pm-4:00pm
SUPPORT BROOKFIELD! SHOP LOCAL!
Fill My Jar, holiday character visit and make your own reindeer food
Ink Your Wear, hot chocolate
…PLUS MORE throughout town!
Come out and celebrate with Santa early for a delicious taco brunch served at our local VFW. We will have crafts, goodies and pictures with Santa from 10am-1pm right before the Trolley route begins. Joshua W. Harris Memorial Brookfield VFW Post 2868, 8844 Ogden Avenue, Brookfield, IL. To RSVP please call 708.485.9670.
Kris Kringle Market
recommend walking since the trolley can get very busy
Grossdale Station
Kringle Market
Merriment, cheer and supporting local this holiday
Brook
eld’s annual Holiday Celebration returns with focus on Kris Kringle Market, celebrating with small businesses
By JACKIE PISANO Contributing Reporter
Brookfield’s Holiday Celebration, the village’s beloved annual event which unites locals, village officials and business owners in yuletide fun, returns to kick of f the season of holiday festivities this Saturday, Dec. 7.
And, back by popular demand — and double the size from last year’s inaugural event — will be the celebration’s newest activity, the Kris Kringle Market, located at Brookfield Village Hall, 8820 Brookfield Ave., from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Setting the tone for the day of celebrations, the Kris Kringle Market will show-
case more than 70 local vendors selling an array of one-of-a-kind finds from local entrepreneurs and business owners, including jewelry, home goods, bakery and more.
In between browsing, visitors can purchase specialty market mugs designed by a student from Riverside Brookfield High School (while supplies last), and visitors ofage can satisfy their taste buds with mulled wine from Glunz Family Winery of Grayslake and crafted beers from Brookfield’s own Imperial Oak Brewing. Kids can visit the Letters to Santa station, where they’ll not only receive help in writing letters from elves, but also be guaranteed a letter back from Kris Kringle himself!
While at Village Hall, stop for a family photo op with a retro truck and Christmas trees — precisely, 12 in total, 10 of which will be donated following the celebration to Brookfield’s Share Food Share Love Food Pantry and two which will be raffled of f to the public.
“The Market and Holiday Celebration is such a family-friendly event and a great way to support everybody in our town,” said Gina Sharenow, a Brookfield resident and event organizer. “I think it’s a really great draw for people from even outside of Brookfield, to show the charm and camara-
derie that Brookfield has to offer.”
Sponsored by both the Village of Brookfield and Brookfield Chamber of Commerce, the rest of the festivities of the Holiday Celebration will take place from 2 to 5 p.m. along the Grand Avenue and Broadway Avenue business corridors, with a few festive stops featured in between.
Throughout the celebration, two courtesy trolleys will run continuously along five stops — Fill My Jar (3726 Prairie Ave.), 3735 Grand Boulevard, the Linda Sokol Francis Brookfield Public Library (3541 Park Ave.), Betty’s Flowers & Gifts (9138 Broadway Ave.) and S.E. Gross Middle School (3524 Maple Ave.)
Along the Fill My Jar route (Trolley Stop 1), visit the Historic Grossdale Station (8820 ½ Brookfield Ave.), where the museum will be open until 4 p.m. and a wood carver will show of f their rustic art talent until 5 p.m. Keep note — the station will also be the new site for this year’s tree lighting ceremony, which will close out the evening from 5:30 to 6 p.m. Fill My Jar will feature holiday
TODD BANNOR
Children with a snow-making Santa at the Brook eld Kris Kringle Market during the Brook eld Holiday Celebration last year.
A giant walk-in snow globe (le ) and a child (right) poses for a pho the Brook eld Holiday Celebration last year.
character visits and a station for kids to make their own reindeer food; Ink Your Wear, 8838 Brookfield Ave., will offer guests free hot chocolate; and Brookfield Breakfast, 3755 Grand Boulevard, will open its doors for extended dining hours through 5 p.m. — just in case mid-day pancakes or an omelet sound like just the thing you need to give you a yummy afternoon pick-me-up.
While down near 3735 Grand Boulevard (Trolley Stop 2), pose for photos with Santa until 4:30 p.m. at Irish Times, 8869 Burlington Ave.; catch a mythical fire breather at Burger Antics, 3740 Grand Boulevard; and stop inside Brennan Massage & Spa, 3700 Grand Boulevard, for gift card sales to give someone the gift of ache and pain relief this holiday season.
At the Linda Sokol Francis Brookfield Public Library (Trolley Stop 3), library staf f will be passing out free hot chocolate in the lobby and organizing crafts for all ages in their state-of-the-art Maker Studio.
At Betty’s Flowers & Gifts (Trolley Stop 4), take a break for some complimentary refreshments and sneak a peek at beautiful seasonal decor. Animal lovers can check out the fan-favorite petting zoo at the corner of Grand Boulevard and Washington
Avenue, west of Beach Avenue BBQ; and don’t forget to be wowed by the ice carver at First National Bank of Brookfield, 9136 Washington Ave.
At the celebration’s S.E. Gross Middle School stop (Trolley Stop 5), warm up inside the school and be entertained by the musically inclined youngsters of Brookfield and LaGrange Park with performances by the school’s band and choir throughout the afternoon. Inside the gym, a giant inflatable snow globe will be blown up for goofy photo ops for the kids, and holiday crafts, fun activities for the whole family and more active inflatable games will be available through 5 p.m. And, once you’re ready to brave the winter elements again, check out the iceless skating rink in the 9200 block of Broadway Ave. No need to lace up skates, just come as you are!
Of course, make sure you don’t miss the evening’s grand finale — the Christmas tree lighting ceremony at Grossdale Station. At 5:30 p.m., carolers from Riverside Brookfield High School will set the mood with holiday tunes in anticipation of Santa’s arrival via fire truck at 5:45 p.m., where he will merrily lead the crowd in a countdown to light the tree promptly at 6 p.m.
TODD BANNOR
A young woman paints faces at Santa’s Toy Shop at the Brook eld Kris Kringle Market y Celebration last year.
Holiday Stroll 2024
RIVERSIDE
from page 11
Longcommon Road corridor for an array of fun activities, including an edible marshmallow craft sponsored by Riverside Parks and Recreation at the Water Tower; cookie treats at Riverside Plumbing Heating and Cooling, 3 Longcommon Ave.; holiday face painting at Riverside Prehop Cleaners, 9 Longcommon Ave.; a model train display and popcorn, hot chocolate and karaoke at Riverside Masonic Lodge, 40 Forest Ave.; holiday music and cookies at The Sandtrap Grill and Tap, 31 Forest Ave.; tamales and Mexican fruit punch at La Estancia, 25 Forest Ave.; and a petting zoo, pony rides, and hot chocolate and s’mores around the fire pit at Riverside Garage, 19 East Ave.
And, new this year bringing the libations outside of Riverside Garage will be BuckleDown Brewing from Lyons with their festive mobile beer garden — a Christmas-light wrapped truck offering adult patrons five different types of craft beers on tap for sale.
Riverside’s historic train station will be bustling all evening long with entertain-
ment and the new Santa’s Holiday Market. Catch holiday dance performances from the Riverside Brookfield High School poms team at 6:30, 7, 7:30 and 8 p.m., or jump in the fun yourself with learn-to-dance offerings at various times throughout the evening
The new Santa’s Holiday Market will feature vendors offering unique gift finds for everyone on your gift giving list, including hand stamped cards from Crafted by Sheila Gentile; felt and glass ornaments and paper house gifts by Gelse Tkalec; “Not your Average Oatmeal” children’s books by Riversider Abby Re gan; handmade artisan bath and body products including soy wax candles, shampoo bars and gift sets by Hilary Quinn of Hilary’s Soap Box; one-of-akind hand-crafted handbags and accessories by Mary Margaret Collins of Two Crazy Daisies; and homemade popcorn by Liz Carey of Carey Corn. Don’t forget to grab a balloon art piece by Tommy Twister while you’re at the market too.
Over at the Riverside Public Library, 1 Burling Road, stop for a photo and gifts with Santa and Mrs. Claus, children’s crafts and a Christmas book sale. Next door at Riverside Township Hall, 27 Riverside Road, catch the music from the Riverside School District 96
HAPPY
HOLIDAYS from THE CORDIAL INN
The cordial inn is a great place to meet friends, catch a game, and enjoy the oldest neighborhood bar in the area. Open at 7am Mon-Sat and 11am on Sundays!
We serve great cheeseburgers, ice cold beer and seltzers, and excellent cocktails!
Visit our Facebook page for upcoming events and holiday hours!
9207 31st St., Brookfield, Il 60513 • 708-485-9753 • thecordialinn@gmail.com Mon-Thursday 7am to 1:30am, Fri-Sat 7am - 2:30am, Sun 11am to 1:30am.
JAVIER GOVEA
Adults and children enjoy the model trains during the Riverside Holiday Stroll last year
Choir from 7 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.; watch Mr. D’s Magic & Illusion shows at 6:30 p.m. or 7:30 p.m.; visit the “Riverside 150” sesquicentennial street sign drawing ticket sales; and peek at Erika Vazanna’s solo art exhibition, “That Was Then, This Is Now,” on behalf of the Riverside Arts Center.
On the Quincy Street South corridor, pop into Black Book Studio, 33 E. Quincy St., for churros and Mexican hot chocolate; say hello at the Riverside Parks and Recreation Community Center, 43 E. Quincy St., for a Grinch photo opp and fun holiday crafts for the kids; and enjoy festive pony rides loading across from Jeff ’s Auto Garage, 20 E. Quincy St. While at Jeff ’s, catch Sugar Glider demonstrations, enjoy live music, and snack on Italian beef sandwiches, hot dogs and chili. Along the Riverside Road/Quincy Street North area, go to Centre Physical Therapy, 1 Riverside Road, for performances by the Riverside Brookfield High School choir, and enjoy popcorn, kids crafts, and beer and wine; snap a Christmas selfie and catch giveaways at The Treehouse, 1 Riverside Road; enjoy hot chocolate, giveaways and face painting at both Next Level Wellness and Dulce Mami Cafe, 1 Riverside Road; hear The Maple Trio Jazz Band at First American Bank, 15 Riverside Road; visit the pop-up shop selling holiday art, artists exhibits and open studios for all ages at the Riverside Arts Center, 32 E. Quincy St.; and see Santa’s Toy shop and grab a mylar balloon at Metal Mites, 26 E. Quincy St Over at Burlington Street South, see the
Elvis tribute artist performances from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. at Riverside Bank, 17 E. Burlington St.; listen to the Frozen Robins Carolers at @ Properties, 21 E. Burlington St.; enjoy cookies and a surprise that glows at Riverside Pilates Studio, 27 E. Burlington St; try a $5 brandyspiked holiday eggnog at The Chew Chew, 33 E. Burlington St.; sample the drinks and snacks at Northwood Oaks Investments, 37 E. Burlington St.; and be wowed by chocolate grappa and a limoncello tasting at Landmark Kitchen Design, 39 E. Burlington St
Finally, across the street along Burlington Street North, enter La Barra Restaurant, 2 E. Burlington St., for live music by Matt Scharpf, hot chocolate and holiday cheer; check out the baked goods sale, reindeer food and bows by Girl Scout Troop 45434 outside; visit Mike Adelsbach State Farm Insurance, 18 E. Burlington St., for giveaways, snacks and coloring books; say hello to the clergy and parishioners of St. Paul VI Parish and St. Mary School, 40 E. Burlington St., for kids activities, Christmas music, snacks and tamales; sample beer and wine at Riverside Foods, 48 E. Burlington St.; and decorate your very own felt Santa hat at Salon D’Amore, 52 E. Burlington St
And, as always, the old-fashioned Christmas vibes will abound as horse-and-wagon rides will convey visitors up and down Burlington Street. Loading and unloading will take place outside of Riverside Foods. Don’t forget to take advantage of the opportunity to celebrate the season like Riverside’s early residents did in the late 1800s!
TODD BANNOR
Adults and children roast marshmallows during the Riverside Holiday Stroll last year
Opinion
THE L ANDMARK VIEW
Philosophy of fees
At a time when homeowners are acutely aware of proper ty tax hi kes, Rive rside and most other villages continue to find ways to raise reve n ues that do n’ t touc h the levy on proper ty Riverside is raising a batch of fees as of the first of the year. The stated goal, of both elected officials and administrative leadership, is to make sure users of specific village services are covering the actual cost to Riverside of providing that service. S ome of the fees going up are highly specific. False alarm calls to police and fire will have a new fee structure in plac e. The cost of having water service turned on outside of business hours will go from $100 to $150 to reflect actual staf f c osts. Special events that require a police or fire presence will now command a cost, wh ich aligns with the actual hourly cost of those staf f member s.
T he most notable changes are in the area of zoning variances being applied for by either a homeowner, developer or business owner. The shift is to significantly raise the de p osits required fo r the village to process such a request. Currently the de p osits are modest and the actual costs, wh ich are eventually billed by the village, exceed the de p osits, and that can cause wh at Finance Director Yvette Zavala called “sticker shock” for the applicant.
T he village says this is not an actual increase in the costs of applying for a variance but just a simpler way to rece ive pay ment in adv ance in the fo rm of the de p osit rather than needing to collec t f ees later.
Overall, we favo r the philosop hy of asking those needing an unusual service to pay for that service rather than having those c osts come out of the pocket of the full citizenry through the g eneral operating fund
The big holiday weekend
Fo r small towns with active but modest chambers of c ommerce and limited gove r nment staf fing, we are always wowe d by the scale of the holiday events both Brookfield and Rive rside muster at thi s time of the year.
Riverside’s annual Holiday Stroll will be this Friday evening. It is an extravaganza spreading all across town. Our Jackie Pisano has all the ambitious details in a story on page 11.
Brookfield will not be outdone as its annual Holiday Stroll takes place this Saturday. It runs from 10 a.m. through to the tree lighting at 6 p.m. at Grossdale Station. Pisano re ports that the Kris Kringle Market, which debuted last year, is back and much larger than a year ago. That story is on page 14.
Big cheer abounds for the holidays just ahead. Celebrate local and shop local, too.
OBITUARIES
Dolores Bochniarz, 93
Homemaker
Dolores Bochniarz, nee Triner, 93, of Westchester, for merly of Brookfield, died on Nov. 28, 2024. She was the wife of the late Thaddeus “Ted” S. Bochniarz; the mother of Fran (Richard) Jacobs, Paul Bochniarz, Philip Bochniarz, Marian Knudsen and Anne (Vasun) Netisingha; the grandmother of Sarah (Rustin) King, Kristen (Nathan) Dant, Katie Knudsen, Kelly (Jeff) Nathanson, Peter (Dr. Gretchen Paulson) Netisingha, and Jamie (Eric) Leaven; the greatgrandmother of Elizabeth and Jacob King, Carter, Wyatt and Rhys Dant, Thaddeus Netisingha, and Logan Leaven.
Visitation was held on Dec. 3, at Hitzeman Funeral Home, 9445 31st St., Brookfield. Funeral Mass was celebrated at 10 a.m. on Dec. 4 at St. Cletus Church in LaGrange. Followed by interment with a graveside service at Queen of Heaven Cemetery in Hillside.
Memorials are appreciated to the Breast Cancer Research Foundation, 28 W. 44th Street, Suite 609, New York, NY 10036 or your favorite charity.
If you wish to send a sympathy card, mail it to Hitzeman Funeral Home, 9445 31st St., Brookfield, IL 60513, c/o Dolores Bochniarz family We will forward it to the family.
To run an obituary
Please contact Erika Hobbs by e-mail: erika@growingcommunitymedia.org, before Monday at noon. Please include a photo if possible.
ENVELOPE
from page 5
on active support from our readers. You are central to our plan to keep real local news thriving for years to come
We’ve figured out these past few years
ZONING
from page 8
police next year after surveying the costs in nearby communities.
“Based on that survey, staff was notified that other communities have a structure where it differentiates between police calls for a false alarm and fire calls,” she said. “Three other villages … differentiate be-
from
— we became a nonprofit newsroom in 2019 – that our print readers are our most devoted donors. And so, a couple of times each year we come to you with these little envelopes as the easiest way for you to send a donation in support of genuine, inde pendent community news
Growing Community Media, that’s the name of our nonprofit, publishes the Land-
tween police and fire based on staffing needs” and other costs, like deploying a firetruck.
The costs for false alar m calls to police will be $100 and $125 for single-family homes, respectively, while the costs for false alarm calls to the fire department will be $200 and $300 instead.
Fees related to certificates of occupancy and compliance will go up $25 next year
Certificates of compliance for properties will cost $350 in total, plus $25 for each unit after the second in multi-family properties
answe r p olice q uestions after they we re r ead their M iranda rights; Rive rside police g ot a single f elony c harge of arson a ppr oved for each of them that day.
These items we re obtained from th e lice De partment re port s
mark and also Wednesday Journal of Oak Park and River Forest, the Forest Park Review and the Austin Weekly News on the West Side. In each of these communities we’re the vital connector with reporters on the ground telling the stories of our neighborhoods.
If you are a small envelope veteran, then thank you and we’ll look forward to the arrival of your donation before Dec. 31. If we’ve
Property transfers that are exempt from certificate of compliance requirements will cost $50.
Permits for temporary uses of the rightof-way will double in cost, going from $50 to $100 next year. According to meeting documents, these permits are for “cases where a short-term, limited use of rightof-way is unavoidable or infeasible,” like if active construction prevents equipment from being placed on private property.
The fee to turn on a property’s water
dated No v. 21-27 and the Brookfield Po lice De partment re ports dated No v. 25 to Dec. 2; th ey re present a portion of the incidents to wh ich police responded Anyone named in these re ports has onl y b een charged with a crime and case s ha ve not yet been adjudicated. We re port
got you thinking, then join your neighbors in making the Landmark stronger than ever
One-time d onations are great. A recu rring monthly donation is wonderful. An d if you have n’ t b ought a stamp in this c entur y, then we will welcome your investment online at Grow ingCommunityMedia.org/donate
You have our thanks
outside of business hours, be it after 4:30 p.m., on a weekend or on a holiday, will rise from $100 to $150 to better align with the cost of staf f time.
“The fee is not in alignment with the salary expense incur red when such events happen because [public works] water [and sewer] employees are under the [Service Employees International] Union, and if they are called back, it’s a minimum [cost] of two hours,” she said.
the ra ce of a suspect only wh en a serious c rime has been committed, the suspect is still at la rg e and police ha ve provided us with a detailed physical description of the suspect as th ey seek the public’s help in making an ar re st
Compiled by Trent Brown
ome people choose not to file a tax return because they aren’t legally required to file, but they could be missing out on refundable tax credits or an income tax refund. This could apply to someone if they:
• Have had federal income tax withheld from their pay.
• Made estimated tax payments.
• Qualify to claim refundable tax credits.
• Don’t miss out on valuable tax credits A few tax credits people can claim on a federal tax return if they’re eligible include:
• Earned Income Tax Credit - Taxpayers can use the EITC Assistant on IRS.gov to check their eligibility.
• Education credits - The American Opportunity Tax Credit is for qualified education expenses for the first four years of higher education. The Lifetime Leaming Credit is for qualified tuition
and related expenses paid for eligible students enrolled in an eligible educational institution.
• Child Tax Credit - Taxpayers can claim the Child Tax Credit if they had a qualifying child under the age of 17 at the end of 2024.
• Credit for Other DependentsTaxpayers who don’t qualify for the Child Tax Credit may qualify for the Credit for Other Dependents. This includes people who have dependent children who are age 18 or older at the end of 2024; and/or parents or other qualifying individuals they support.
By Linda Sokol Francis. E.A.
Screenings can detect cancer at an early stage and provide a greater chance for treatment success. And if you are faced with a diagnosis, where you receive your care is one of the most important decisions you’ll ever make.
As a national leader in whole-person care, AdventHealth in the western suburbs offers connections to the renowned cancer care experts at UChicagoMedicine. Find a dedicated partner for your individual cancer journey just down the road.
To schedule a cancer screening go to ChicagolandCancerCare.com.
Sports
Nazareth football captures 5A state for 3rd straight year
All-stater Kaminski, Colon, Kasky contribute to historic 7th crown
By BILL STONE
Contributing Reporter
For holder Johnny Colon of Brookfield, the Nazareth Academy football team’s preparation for the Class 5A state championship game Saturday included adding a new twopoint conversion play disguised as a typical extra point.
When junior kicker Frankie Nichols actually called the play in the third quarter and received the ball directly from junior long-snapper Richie Skinkis, Colon was as stunned as everyone
“We didn’t even plan it. He just called it at the line. I was like, ‘OK Frankie.’ It ended up working out for him really well,” Colon said.
“That was really special. I had front row seats to it.”
The two-point conversion catch by sophomore Henry Sakalas was the difference maker against Joliet Catholic Academy – especially when the Hilltoppers needed a twopoint conversion to tie after scoring with just 20 seconds left.
The Roadrunners held and secured an exhilarating 29-27 victory at Illinois State University in Normal for the program’s unprecedented third consecutive state championship and sixth overall.
Senior all-state linebacker and four-year starter Gabe Kaminski of Riverside (14 tackles, 6 solos) and Colon (3 tackles, solo), also a starting cornerback, and sophomore starting defensive end Chris Kasky (6 tackles, 3 solo), both of Brookfield, were integral to a big defensive effort that also made two fourth-down stops inside the 10-yard line
“It’s a special feeling, especially going out on top, doing something that’s never been done in Nazareth history. It’s an indescribable feeling for sure,” said Kaminski, the 6-foot-3, 235-pound Stanford recruit.
“I think (the two-point stop) was just a collective confidence. There was just this energy that we knew we’d stop them. We banded together during the timeout, we said this is the game and we got it done. It was a thriller. They had us on the ropes, they had the momentum on their side but we battled through it.”
Nazareth (12-2) also won the 2023 5A state championship 38-20 over the Hilltoppers (10-4) after trailing 20-10 at halftime and pulled out their Sept. 27 regular-season meeting 16-13 in LaGrange Park
The record
All of the Roadrunners’ state titles have come under head coach Tim Racki, the first in 2014.
“The seniors came to me as freshmen when we had that whole (COVID-19) shutdown,” Racki said.
“Our numbers just dwindled. These guys came in with faith that the program would grow, and not just grow but lead it back to where it was. They certainly did that in a big way. And leaving their legacy with their third state title, which is quite a standard to surpass considering the success we’ve had.”
Kaminski and senior quarterback Logan Malachuk were named 5A all-state by the Illinois High School Football Coaches Association and started for all three championship teams. Senior lineman Sam Stec was honorable mention all-state
“This was a really special group of seniors that I loved to do it with. There’s no one else I’d rather do it with,” Kasky said.
With Malachuk at quarterback, backup Nichols explored kicking to get on the field more. He kicked in youth football and played soccer. Colon and Skinkis also returned from last year’s conversion trio.
Nichols displayed his passing skills on the two-point pass, Nichols rolled and found Sakalas for a great catch just inside the left sideline
“I was little nervous but I was just more excited to try (the new play),” Nichols said.
“At first, I didn’t really think it was a big deal but at the end of the game when it came down to that last two-point conversion I was like, ‘Oh. I didn’t know it would be that big.’ I’m just glad that it worked out.”
On fourth-and-4, JCA’s Keegan Far naus made a nice 13-yard TD catch just within in the right sideline closed the gap to 29-21 with 3:34 left. After a three-and-out got the
Hilltoppers the ball back at the Nazareth 47 with 3:11 remaining, Vince Bremner scored on a 1-yard run.
On the Hilltoppers’ two-point attempt, quarterback Lucas Simulick‘s end-zone throw near the right sideline barely missed connecting with Far naus.
Colon was defending the opposite side of the play. Kasky was subbed out a couple of plays earlier.
“I was really scared. I was like, ‘What if I could change the game?’ But I guess it was the right call because we are here now [celebrating],” Kasky said.
“It was crazy. Anticipation. I was just ready to go. I was tired of waiting around [during the timeout],” Colon said.
“The past couple of years I didn’t play as much, but this year, giving it all to the seniors, the guys before me, just means a lot to me. I want to do everything I can to give back to the program.”
Nazareth scored on its first three possessions for a 21-7 lead. Malachuk found Trenton Walker for a 74- yard TD pass on the fift h play from scrimmage and 16-yard TD pass
Jimmy Penley scored on a 34-yard TD pass with 8:51 left in the first half after Nichols succeeded running an apparent punt on fourth-and-8 from the Nazareth 3 for a 27-yard gain. Nichols began running boot punts during the playoffs.
“Frankie has really come through, obviously those two points being the difference,” Racki said. “[Punts] is one where he does have the green light. He’s fast enough and he’s an athlete. He knows that if it’s there, I don’t care where we are on the field, you get that first down and thankfully that was open.”
JCA closed to 21-14 by halftime. Kaminski, who occasionally plays on offense, added to his accomplishments by catching his first high-school touchdown pass – a 6-yarder from Malachuk – followed by Nichols’ twopointer for a 29-14 lead with 3:08 left in the third quarter.
“No better place to do it. it was great,” Kaminski said. “[Offensive coordinator Casey Moran is] a mastermind. We were working on it throughout this week and it
was actually there.”
Malachuk finished this season passing for 3,419 yards and 46 TDs. He was 18-of-31 for 336 yards Saturday.
“I’ve been trying to get that down for four years and to think [Kaminski’s] first touchdown catch is the state championship our senior year, you couldn’t write a better story. That’s just absolutely insane,” Malachuk said.
“They’re all sweet [championships]. This one’s a little sweeter, just knowing it’s my last game and all of the emotions that come along with it. I’m just super proud of this team and this brotherhood that we’ve created.”
Late in the first quarter, JCA went for the score on fourth-and-goal at the 1, but the handof f between Liminick and Larry Stringham was fumbled. Stringham grabbed the ball and be gan running backwards but was stopped.
After Kaminski’s TD, the Hilltoppers reached the Nazareth 10. On fourth-and-6, a screen pass that probably would have resulted in a first down was dropped.
Kaminski stopped Stringham for a threeyard loss on the previous play and recovered a fumble caused by Gar rett Reese at the Nazareth 39 earlier in the third quarter Kasky contributed to two tackles for loss. Dylan Wellner had a second-quar ter interception.
“I think I was pretty ready, pretty locked in,” Kasky said. “We’re really happy on the defense, really proud. It’s all about the guys around me.”
Besides last year’s comeback, these Roadrunners won a wild 2022 5A championship 45-44 over Peoria. With 5:15 left, Kaminski contributed to the tackle that thwarted that two-point conversion after Peoria closed to 45-44.
“[My greatest memory is] the three state championships. They’re all really special to me. I think sophomore year was the most dramatic. That was a pretty tough one,” Kaminski said.
“Honestly, I just hope the underclassmen thought we [seniors] did a good job leading, a good job by me being captain. I hope we left a good impression.”
AND EVALUATION REPORT
Date of Publication: December 4, 2024
Village of Oak Park 123 Madison Street Oak Park, IL 60302 (708) 383-6400
PUBLIC COMMENT PERIOD
Notice is hereby given that the Village of Oak Park Program Year 2023 Community Development Block Grant (CDBG)
Draft Consolidated Annual Performance and Evaluation Report (CAPER) will be available for public review beginning Thursday, December 5, 2024.
The CAPER is the Village’s annual CDBG report to the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). It will reflect the Program Year 2023 results, which began October 1, 2023 and ended September 30, 2024.
The Village of Oak Park invites comments on the CAPER. The public comment period will begin December 5, 2024, and end December 20, 2024 at 5:00pm CST. The report will be available by visiting the Village of Oak Park, 123 Madison Street, Oak Park, IL 60302 and at: www.oak-park.us/cdbg.
PUBLIC COMMENTS
Any comments concerning the CAPER may be submitted in writing to the Village of Oak Park, 123 Madison Street, Oak Park, IL 60302, via: email to Vanessa Matheny, Community Service Administrator, at vmatheny@oak-park.us, or at the Public Hearing to be held from 3:30PM-4:30PM on December 13, 2024. Please send a request to the above referenced email address to attend the virtual hearing. Reasonable accommodations will be made for persons with disabilities and non-English speaking persons, as needed.
UCP Seguin is soliciting bids for a GENERAL CONTRACTOR to complete a variety of capital improvements at three of our residential homes located in the Village of Oak Park, Illinois. Complete Bid Packet can be obtained by contacting Inga Sandoval at: Isandoval@ucpseguin. org.
Pre-bid site inspection is mandatory, and is scheduled to occur by appointment only. Please contact Inga Sandoval at (708) 222-5641 to schedule an appointment.
Bid Deadline is 10 am on 12/20/2024
This is a Federally-Funded (Community Development Block Grant) Project and is subject to all applicable Federal rules, regulations and guidelines, including but not limited to payment of Prevailing Wage.
MBE and WBE contractors are encouraged to bid on this project
