Wednesday Journal 030123

Police oversight group’s power expands slowly

Gains access to more data on citizen complaints

By STACEY SHERIDAN Staff Reporter

The Oak Park Village Board received the first re port from its Citizen Police Oversight Committee since the conclusion of the months-long equity assessment of the village’s police department by consultant BerryDunn.

CPOC’s semiannual re port, presented at the board’s Feb. 21 meeting, provided insight into how ef for ts to fortify the commission’s oversight powers have broadened the village’s ability to supervise policing. The re port is altogether more expansive, especially when compared to the one that directly preceded it, not least of which because it is the first re port to assess the village’s use of license plate recorders, known as Flock cameras.

The village’s eight controversial cameras were approved by the village board last April without af fording its committees the opportunity to provide input and without seeking the counsel of Ber ryDunn. This is also the second re port since CPOC was granted the authority to review footage and audio recordings associated with citizen complaints.

Reviewing the footage has been helpful to CPOC, Chair Donovan Pe pper shared with the board, because

pa ge 6

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OPRF approves $102M scope for Project 2 physical ed facilities

6-0 vote in favor. Financing plan still to be decided

By BOB SKOLNIK Contributing Reporter

The much discussed and much argued about Project 2 at Oak Park and River Forest High School took a big ste p forward last week. To the sur prise of no one the District 200 school board approved a nearly $102 million scope for Project 2 by a 6-0 vote at their Feb. 23. meeting. Based on this scope Project 2 is estimated to cost $101,757,790. Plans call for demolition and rebuilding of the southeast portion of the OPRF building focusing on physical education facilities including a new 10 lane, 25 by 40 yard swimming pool with a 420 person capacity observation gallery, a new third floor three cour t gym, new locker rooms, including locker rooms for gender non-confor ming students, a new weight room and training room, new PE classrooms, new of fices, a new dance studio and a theater Green Room among other improvements

“This is work that probably should have been done a decade or two ago,” said school board member Ralph Mar tire. “I think it will enhance the value of our homes I think it’s past time to do it.”

Board member Kebreab Henry agreed.

“It is ir responsible to leave the school how it is now,” Henry said.

Before the vote board member Sara Spivy questioned the need for spending $379,593 to redo the portion of the south cor ridor that will be in the old part of the building. School board president Tom Cofsky also had doubts about that expense but the majority of the board thought that creating a unified look in the entire hallway was wor th the cost. They noted that sections of OPRF were built at dif ferent times resulting in a hodge podge appearance in the building that does not create a unified look or feel.

“I don’t think this is purely cosmetic,” Mar tire said. “Rather it is to make the building flow to gether.”

Before the vote four people spoke in suppor t of Project 2 during the public comment por tion of the meeting and two people spoke against mostl y re prising now

familiar arguments that have been made re peatedly for months Those speaking against Project 2, Monica Sheehan and Judith Alexander, noted the Committee for Equity and Excellence in Education (CEEE) raised concer ns in a One View piece published in Wednesday Jour nal last week, saying that a true racial equity analysis (REA) has not been done on Project 2.

Henry criticized the opponents, although not by name, for using equity as a weapon in opposing the new swimming pool saying that equity should always be a concer n and not just used for a pet issue

“As a Black man who lives in Oak Park and we have true issues of equity that we fight and deal with every day I don’t appreciate you using that to get an agenda item across that you want to push,” Henry said. “Don’t do that, that’s of fensive.”

Sheehan responded to Henry’s comments in an email sent to Wednesday Jour nal the next day.

“Mr. Henry did not dispute anything we said in our comments about the REA of Project 2,” Sheehan wrote. “His attack was an ef fort to deflect from the real issue that the REA was compromised, and its

findings are not an accurate assessment of the racial equity impact of Project 2. It was another example of a school board member not holding the administration accountable and a deflection from the truth at the expense of community members.”

The school board will next have to decide how to finance Project 2.

“This vote is solely to determine the scope of the project, not the financing,” Cofsky said. He said the board hopes to decide how to pay for Project 2 by the end of the school year.

In January the school’s outside financial advisor presented five options, four of which include some sor t of referendum, for financing Project 2. Most of the proponents of Project 2 favor the one option without a referendum saying that it is the fastest and cheapest option. The Community Finance Committee will meet on Feb. 28 to discuss and analyze the options

“We’ve asked them to provide us with options,” Cofsky said. “We’ve said not one.”

But Cofsky says the school board and CFC will not be limited to those five options.

“Those were just a star ting point,” Cofsky said.

PROVIDED

Exterior schematic design for Imagine OPRF Project 2.

PROVIDED

Aquatic schematic design, aka the new pool, is one part of OPRF’s Project 2 proposal

“This is work that probably should have been done a decade or two ago. I think it will enhance the value of our homes. I think it ’s past time to do it.”

R ALPH MARTIRE D200 board member

Oak Park STEAM Fest

Thursday, March 2, 6-7:30 p.m., Oak Park Public Librar y

Experience the wide world of STEAM (science, technology, engineering, ar t, and math) at hands- on robotics, coding and ar t stations set up throughout the librar y! Also, celebrate the culmination of the One Book, One Distric t: Elementar y Edition with some fun ac tivities related to Maya and the Robot! For families with students in grades K-8. Hosted in par tnership with Oak Park Elementar y School Distric t 97 and Oak Park Education Foundation. Walk-ins are welcome; registration is encouraged at oppl.org/calendar. 834 Lake St., Oak Park.

Protec ting Seniors From Identit y Thef t & Scams

Wednesday, March 1, 6-7 p.m., Oak Park Public Librar y

Concerned about identity theft and scams for yourself or an older adult in your life? Join Julianne Rizzo, of Oasis Senior Advisors, for an interac tive presentation on keeping safe from identity theft and scams. Register now at oppl.org/calendar. 834 Lake St., Oak Park

Mamma Mia, the Musical

Saturday, March 4 & 11 at 7 p.m., Sunday, March 5 & 12 at 2 p.m.

ABBA songs tell the story of a young woman’s search for her bir th father

On the eve of her wedding, a daughter’s quest to discover the identity of her father brings three men from her mother ’s past back to the island they last visited 20 years ago

A mother. A daughter. Three possible dates. And a trip down the aisle. OPRF High School Auditorium, 201 N. Scoville Ave. Directed by Michelle Bayer.

BIG WEEK

March 1-8

American Girl Tea Part y

St. Patrick ’s Day Parade

Saturday, March 4, 1-3 p.m., Madison Street

Family-friendly festivities.

Madison Street, Forest Park .

International Women’s Day Concer t

Sunday, March 5, 2:30 p.m., Grace Lutheran Church, Oak Park Working in Concer t presents its Second Annual International Women’s Day Concer t, “Will They Remember Life Was Beautiful - A Tribute to Women in the Ar ts,” which includes a vocal quar tet on young lives lost to gun violence, will be held at 2:30 p.m. on Sunday, March 5, in Good Shepherd Lutheran Church of Oak Park. Vocalists Susan Nelson, Sarah Kropski, Christine Steyer and Anna Tonna will be accompanied by collaborative pianists Jennifer McCabe and Shannon McGinnis. Doors open at 2 p.m. Tickets are $22.50 in advance or $27.50 at the door $45 for VIP seating, and $10 for students Tickets: Bellissimaopera.com/IWD23/. 611 Randolph Street in Oak Park.

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

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

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

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

Little Miss Ann

Saturday, March 4, 2-2:45 p.m., River Forest Public Library

Aw d-winning kid’s musician Little Ann shows how eputation at this special library show. 10,000 happy families can’t be wrong. 735 Lathrop est.

Julia Child: A Living Histor y al by Leslie Goddard

Sunday, March 5, 2-3:30 p.m., er Forest Public Library

Ac tress and scholar Leslie Goddard brings the late chef and television show host Julia Child to life through this live dramatization. 735 Lathrop Ave., River Forest

Listing your event

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

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

■ Email calendar@wjinc.com

Simone Boutet

Susan Buchanan Jim Taglia Cory Wesley Brian Straw

Four hurt in Oak Park Avenue rollover

Vehicle crashed into parked car, injuries repor tedly not ‘signi cant’

By STACEY SHERIDAN Staff Reporter

Four people, including two children, were hospitalized after a mor ning rush hour rollover crash in the 300 block of South Oak Park Avenue on Feb. 24.

According to Oak Park spokesperson Dan Yopchick, the vehicle car rying two adults and two children was traveling on Oak Park Avenue when it struck an unoccupied

CPOC REPORT

Police oversight

from page 1

parked vehicle.

The impact of the crash caused the occupied vehicle to roll over All four occupants were removed from the vehicle and transpor ted by paramedics to Loyola University Medical Center According to Yopchick, “there did not appear on the scene to be any significant injuries.”

While Yopchick was unable to provide the ages of the two children, he did confir m that they were restrained properly in car seats in the backseat of the vehicle

er, had a fairly simple explanation for the lapse – human er ror. This was the same reasoning previously provided.

ity to review footage and audio recordings associated with citizen complaints.

Reviewing the footage has been helpful to CPOC, Chair Donovan Pe pper shared with the board, because the committee is not involved in investigations of citizen complaints Investigations are handled inter nally by four or five swor n police officers and once completed, the chief or a commander make a recommendation to CPOC. Personal information of citizens is redacted in the complaints, as well as in audio and video recordings, before going to CPOC.

The prevailing issue in the last CPOC repor t, released in October, of of ficers failing to activate the audio recording device on their dashcams remains an area in need of improvement. In the last six months, there were a total of 9 instances where of ficers did not switch on audio recorders, according to the re port. This policy was enacted to prepare the de par tment for body cameras, which they will get next year That the problem persisted across two consecutive CPOC re por ts was not lost on Trustee Chibuike Enyia.

Police Chief Shatonya Johnson, howev-

“If there’s a situation where it’s perceived as a hot call, where we need of ficers to respond rapidly, sometimes of ficers don’t tur n on their mic pack and it’s by accident,” Johnson reiterated.

In other occasions, of ficers merely forget to activate the audio recorder Additionally, the devices can only detect audio within a shor t distance, Johnson said, so when the of ficer is away from the vehicle, the noise cannot be deciphered and recorded by dashcams.

Failing to activate the audio recording device on dashcams once results in disciplinary action in the form of coaching and counseling with “an education component” to ensure of ficers understand the policy and why it has been enacted. This approach has yielded positive results

“When we address it, we usually don’t see it happen again,” said Johnson. “If it does, it gets progressively worse, as far as the discipline goes.”

The dashcams will be retired once the de par tment obtains of ficer body cameras –

a prospect the chief is looking forward to due to the low quality of dashcam recordings Body cameras provide a front-facing, high-definition video.

“I’m very happy about that,” said Johnson.

From the eight F lock cameras, Pe pper estimated CPOC has seen roughly two months’ wor th of footage Only four to five actual police stops were conducted related to incidents captured in that period. No complaints have been made to the de par tment re garding F lock, according to Johnson.

The total number of F lock stops will be made public when the de partment releases the village’s most recent crime statistics, but Johnson projected the number to be between 12 and 20.

F lock and dashcam footage were not included in the semi-annual re port due to how recently CPOC gained the authority to see it. Pe pper told the board the footage would be included in subsequent re ports, which was confir med by Kira Tchang, the village’s human resources director

Receiving and reviewing police footage is a notable ste p forward in increasing CPOC’s oversight authorities – something desired by both commissioners and village board members alike. Expanding the commission’s influence was also recommended by Ber ryDunn, a re presentative from which called CPOC “minimally ef fective.” CPOC, however, found Ber ryDunn had underutilized the commission during the assessment.

“We felt our input into that process was very limited and we would have liked to have had additional time to communicate and dialo gue with the consultant before the re port was actually issued,” said Pe pper

CPOC included an addendum in its re port to request that the village board continue to involve the committee in conversations about community policing, particularly in re gard to recommendations made by Ber ryDunn. The consulting firm’s eng agement of CPOC left the commissioners wanting.

Village Manager Kevin Jackson confir med he is in discussions with village staf f and the police chief about revising CPOC’s charter, which dictates the scope of the committee’s authority and responsibilities, to give the committee even greater oversight authority. Jackson did not have “anything beyond that to re por t” that night. Wednesday Jour nal has reached out to him for comment.

Paramedics transported four people to the hospital a er this vehicle struck a parked car in the 300 block of South Oak Park Avenue, causing it to roll over.

“

When we address it, we usually don’t see it happen again. If it does, it gets progressively worse, as far as the discipline goes.”

SHATONYA JOHNSON Police chief

OPRF’s Empty Bowls fundraiser, back in-person

Proceeds go to three aid organizations

By STACEY SHERIDAN Staff Reporter

Grab a bowl and a bite for charity Friday at Oak Park and River Forest School as the Empty Bowls fundraiser back. Buy a ticket at the door to enjoy handmade bowl filled with soup from restaurants. Proceeds from the event be split among three aid org anizations lowing participants to feed their souls their bodies in one fell swoop of a spoon. Empty Bowls is a philanthropic mo ment by ceramic ar tists and craftsmen combat world hunger and, while it wasn star ted at OPRF, this year marks a special milestone for the school. Friday will be its 20th annual Empty Bowls fundraiser. In preparation, OPRF ceramics students, led by wheel-throwing teacher Bridget Doher ty, have spent months making bowls

“We star t making bowls as soon as the first day of school,” she said. “I still have some kids making bowls.”

Doher ty and her students have spun almost 1,000 bowls on pottery wheels at the school, as well as at par tnering local studios ViaClay and Terra Inco gnito. Doher ty uses the school’s kiln to fire the bowls, tur ning them into a viable vessel for food that attendees can keep after the dinner event.

Come March 3, those souvenir bowls will be washed, filled with soup from local restaurants and handed over to attendees during the two-hour event, which star ts at 6 p.m. in the high school’s newly renovated south cafeteria. Admission to the dinner is $20 for adults and $15 for children and students with identification. Tickets are available for purchase at the door. The proceeds will be split equally among Housing Forward, Beyond Hunger and the Global Alliance for Africa. The beloved event generally brings in about $10,000. Soup, bread and time are

being generously donated to the event by 20 area eateries and org anizations, including Triton Colle ge’s hospitality industry administration de par tment. OPRF student leaders do the le g work in contacting the restaurants for donations.

“The next ste p is to reach out to restaurants and remind them that we’re coming to pick up from them,” said OPRF junior Anna Miller, one of the Empty Bowls student leaders “We’ re going to pick up the soup the day of the event.”

This is the first time in two years that Empty Bowls will be held in person. The last time that happened was in Feb. 28, 2020 – just three weeks before the entire state shut down for COVID-19.

“It was wild,” Doher ty recalled. “We were so amazed that we actually had this

event and that we were in a room with, like, over 1,000 people.”

Unlike other events that fell by the wayside during the height of the pandemic years, Doher ty ke pt Empty Bowls going without actually serving soup by selling students’ bowls online. She then orchestrated a sor t of curbside pick-up operation for people to g et their bowls, which came with a restaurant coupon book.

“This is a really impor tant event, so it was not something where I was going to say, ‘No, we j ust won’ t do it this year,’” said Doher ty. “It was, ‘How will we make this happen?’”

Doher ty and her students are looking forward to having a traditional Empty Bowls event again, where members of the community can eat alongside each other. Student volunteers will take tickets, dish up soup and make sure everyone is having a great time. Participating restaurants get a little advertising in during the event as well. Each soup has a placard next

to it, identifying the restaurant it came from. Students will also be selling Empty Bowls T-shir ts featuring the names of all the par tnering businesses and restaurant donors.

“I’m really excited to see how it tur ns out because I haven’t seen an Empty Bowls in full swing in two years,” said student leader and senior Max Friedman.

Perhaps no one is more excited than Doherty, whose special fondness for Empty Bowls be gan when she herself was a student at OPRF. She threw bowls under the tutelage of much adored ceramics teacher Penny Ebsen, who organized the high school’s first ever Empty Bowls in 2003.

Empty Bowls grew with each subsequent year Doher ty took up the Empty Bowls mantle after Ebsen retired in 2018, having taught at OPRF for almost two decades. And while the event’s continued success is in no small part due to the hard work of students, volunteers, and OPRF faculty, Doher ty believes it is the community, restaurants and residents alike, that makes Empty Bowls so special.

“It’s really due to the community,” she said. “The community is very suppor tive.”

PHOTO S COURTESYOF OPRFHS/ WHEEL THROWING CLUB SOUP ’S ON: Bowls made by OPRF students await their servings. (Below) Students at the throwing wheel shape their bowls.

Adduci delivers State of the Village address

Balanced budget, public safety and public works cited

By ROBERT J. LIFKA Contributing Reporter

River Forest Village President Cathy Adduci counted a balanced budget, full employment in the police and fire departments and the “high marks” that the Public Wo Department continues to ceive from residents among the village’s accomplishments the past year in her State of the Village address at the Fe village board meeting, She also credited administration staf f members for looking beyond property tax revenue for funding and her colleagues on the village board for being eng aged and “working collaboratively and professionally” in making decisions.

The State of the Village address is Adduci’s first after a brief hiatus. She gave such addresses annually until the pandemic.

Adduci credited the village’s accomplishments to the three guiding principles that she and the board have established: providing a safe community; strengthening property values; and stabilizing property taxes through fiscal responsibility.

A balanced budget, which Adduci said the village has had the past 15 years, is one of ral financial accomplishments she cited, along with village’s Aa2 bond rating from Moody’s; economic development through the Madison Street and North Avenue tax increment financing districts; and obtaining grant funding, which included a $736,278 Rebuild Illinois Grant that will be used for infrastructure projects over the next three construction seasons. In addition, River Forest partnered with the villages of Forest Park and Oak Park to apply for a Rebuilding American Infra-

structure with Sustainability and Equity grant from the U.S. Department of Transportation to fund the reconstruction of the Harlem Avenue over pass.

In addition to having the police and fire departments at full strength, which Adduci said “clearly re presents the attraction that candidates have to our village and the re putation those departments have in the greater community,” her examples of providing a safe community included the expansion of the village ’s street camera system, continued investment in Fire Department equipment and the Police Department’s quarterly safety meetings with residents.

Other accomplishments include the expedited alley improvement progr am; Water Smart/Smart City technolo gy; the village-wide storm water study; the village ’s ethics ordinance; and intergovernmental cooperation such as the Twin City Covenant with the Village of Maywood and the Cross Community Climate Coop-

erat ive with 14 other west suburban municipalities.

In addition, Adduci cited the work of the Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI) and Age F riendly committees as well as the Sustainability Commission, whose members’ ef for ts led to River Forest receiving the SolSmart Silve r designatio n from the U.S. De par tment of Energy.

“All the accomplishments and projects I have mentioned tonight are in no way exhaustive,” Adduci said. “To accomplish our ongoing goals … it takes a multipronged approach, steadiness and leadership from our village board and staff.”

She thanked all elected officials by name, along with volunteer committee members and village staf f, “for their hard work and commitment to River Forest.”

T he only trustee comment came from Respicio Vazquez, who noted Adduci had left herself of f the list of those credited with contributing to the accomplishments and thanked her for her leadershi p.

Housing for

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

CATHY ADDUCI

Monday, March 6

Monday March 20

Oak Park to resurface Division Street from Austin to Harlem

Construction work planned for spring

By STACEY SHERIDAN Staff Reporter

Wi th c onstruction expected to star t this s pring, the village of Oak Pa rk will be resurfacing Division Street from Harlem Avenue to Austin Boulevard. Th e village b oard approved the project as pa rt of i ts c onsent agenda during it s Fe b. 21 meeting

T he project will be state f unded as a pa rt of the Re build I llinois Capital Plan, a c omprehensive transportation infrastructure improvement p lan. Th e village b oard entered i nto two c ontracts for the project, the first with c onstruction c ompany R. W. Dunteman Co. and the other with engineering firm Edwi n

Hancock Engineering Co. T he respective contracts ar e wo r th $2.7 million and $286,558.

Hancock previously d esigned the resurfacing project and has provided engineering services to the village in the p ast, wh i le R. W. Dunteman submitted the most c ost-effect ive proposal out of the 10 bids the village rece ived

In a ddition to resurfacing the street, c onstruction crews will make improvements to s idewalk corner r amp s, as well as to bicycle and pedestrian crosswalks in seve r al dif ferent locations.

This resurfacing project is expected to be a relative ly short one, with c onstruction crews beginning wo rk in late s prin g and finishing in fall.

Family,

Food, and Murder: What Makes a Cozy Mystery Series

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

Monday, March 13

Gamelan Music from Java

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

Salvador Dali: The Image Disappears

Dr. Onur Öztürk of Columbia College

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

Monday, March 27—Science

How Oak Park and River Forest

Were Shaped by the Ice Age

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

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

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

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

A safe & smart choice.

A safe & smart choice.

A safe & smart choice.

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

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.

99% OF OUR CALEDONIA STAFF IS VACCINATED

our

Taglia focuses on problem-solving, holding line on taxes

Running for second full term as Oak Park trustee

By STACEY SHERIDAN Staff Reporter

Six years on the Oak Pa rk village boar d is not enough time for Trustee Jim Ta glia. T he Oak Park village trustee with an affinity for clocks is vying for more time in public of fice as one of three incumbent candidates seeking reelection. But what he believes makes him unique is his readiness to take challenges head on.

“If you want somebody tha wants a problem to just disap pear, I’m probably not your guy,” Ta glia told Wednesday Jour nal.

Rather than hoping issues will resolve themselves on their own, Ta glia said he like to go directly to the communi ty to deter mine how the village help resolve issues facing Oak Park.

“I go physically and meet with the neighbors and listen to them very carefully,” Ta glia said. “And then I try to figure out a path forward to craft a solution.”

This approach, according to Ta glia, was utilized by the village board in enacting the ordinance prohibiting g as stations from operating at all hours of the day. Concer ned about the increase in violent crime perpetrated at 24-hour gas stations, residents pushed the board to take this action, despite a lack of support from sta-

tion operators.

After months of discussion, the board passed the 24-hour g as station ban in Se ptember, but it did not put an immediate end to the village ’s trouble with g as stations T he ordinance became the subject of a lawsuit filed against the village by local g as stations A temporary restraining order, issued 11 days after the board passed the ban, prevented the ordinance from being enforced until it was rescinded Nov. 15 by a Cook County Circuit Cour t judg e.

Ta glia told Wednesday Journal the village board rose to the challenge presented by gas stations and remained steadast in the name of public safety, which he said he is prepared to do again and is currently doing ga ding the Oak Park-Berwyn border.

Customers patronizing specific Berwyn bars routinely park their vehicles on Oak Park streets, then retur n to them inebriated. T hese part iers re gularly leave broken bottles, play loud music and publicly urinate on private Oak Pa rk proper ty, bu t their behavior sometimes tilts into more dangerous ter ritory: shootings, brawls and drunken driving.

T he bars are located out of the jurisdiction of Oak Park police, but that does little to satisfy the upset and frightened

neighbors. To better address their concerns, Ta glia said he coordinated a Feb. 1 meeting between neighbors, Oak Park Police Chief Shatonya Johnson and a re presentative of Mike’s Place, a popular latenight Berwyn bar situated on the border of Oak Pa rk

Among the candidates for village trustee, Ta glia has had the most experience in serving as a gover nment of ficial, having been in public of fice for over a decade. Ta glia held the position, which was later eliminated, of township collector before becoming an Oak Park township trustee He spent six years on the township board then was appointed to the village board in 2017 by for mer village president Anan Abu-Taleb He was reelected in 2019 to a full-ter m.

As a village trustee, Ta glia has been committed to kee ping the village ’s proper ty tax levy manageable for residents. For the past few fiscal year budg ets, the village has limited its proper ty tax levy to a 3% increase This year, the village board

was able to pass its budg et without any increase at all to its le vy and did so without sacrificing any village services.

“We had to fight for that,” Ta glia said. Kee ping Oak Park af fordable is important to Ta glia, a lifelong village r. He lives in the same home he grew up in, purchasing it from his parents in 1996. Both sets of his grandparents were from Oak Park, as were his mater nal great-grandparents.

T he ability of a f amily to stay in Oak Park across several g enerations de pends greatly on the af fordability of the village. As the cost of living in Oak Park has risen, many have been forced to move, preventing f amilies from having the same multi-generational living experience the Ta glia f amily has enjoyed. Ta glia wants to preserve that oppor tunity for others by kee ping the village ’s proper ty tax levy low, so no one is ever priced out of their homes.

“The levy is the key to af fordability in Oak Park,” he said. “It’s the biggest, single thing we can do.”

e League’s list of Candidate Forums

Only Growing Community Media’s Wednesday Jour nal, Forest Park Re view and Landmark forums are in person. All others are virtual with sign up on lwvoprf.org

March 2 7 p.m. League of Women Voters hosts OPRF High School school board candidates

March 6 6:30 p.m. South East Oak Park Community Organization hosts OPRF High School school board candidates

March 6 7 p.m. League of Women Voters hosts Forest Park mayor and commissioner candidates

March 7 7 p.m. League of Women

Voters hosts Uncontested Candidate statements

March 7 7 p.m. Arbor West Neighbors Oak Park host village trustee candidates

March 9 7 p.m. League of Women Voters hosts Oak Park library board candidates

March 13 7 p.m. League of Women Voters hosts Proviso Township High School District 209 school board candidates

March 22 7 p.m. The Landmark hosts Nor th Riverside village trustee candidates live at Nor th Riverside Village Common

March 16 7 p.m. Wednesday Jour nal hosts Oak Park village trustee candidates live at Oak Park Village Hall council chambers

JIM TAGLIA

A thousand-foot serpent & Cincinnati Chili

Monsters and mysteries in Ohio

By DAVID HAMMOND Oak Park Eats Blog

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

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

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

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

resent one period of the archaeological record).

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

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

Undulating

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

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

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

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

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

PHOTO DAVID HAMMOND

coils of Serpent Mound

PHOTO DAVID HAMMOND

5-Way Chili

OPRF principal brings ‘endless energy’ to the job

Lynda Parker named regional principal of the year

By BOB SKOLNIK Contributing Reporter

In just her second year as the principal of Oak Park and River Forest High School Lynda Parker has brought an effervescent glow of war mth, positivity, energy and caring to OPRF The Illinois Principals Association has recognized her accomplishments and recently named Parker the West Cook Region High School Principal of the Year.

Two to three days a week in the 15 minutes or so before the of ficial school day begins at 8 a.m. Parker positions herself at the top of the school’s main staircase so she can cheerfully greet students and staff as they come into the building and make their way to class While not everyone is cheerful early in the mor ning Parker smiles and gives everyone she can a war m greeting and perhaps a friendly

Superintendent/Principal, is so energetic and cheerful in the mor ning that some think that she must be hyped up on coffee. But she doesn’t even drink coffee. Her war m and friendly personality may come naturally but she also makes an effort to be positive and encouraging.

“I make a choice to try and do that; it’s important to me,” Parker said.

Parker also strives to be accessible to students On Thursdays during the lunch periods Parker sets up shop in the Student Ac-

tivities Center just across from the cafeteria and meets with any student who wants to see her. Students might come to her with a suggestion or a concer n or even just to chat. Whatever it is, Parker wants to be there to talk with them. She says she often can direct a student to the right staff member to tur n their idea into reality

“I like the fact that they can recognize that it’s a service provided for them and so I want to make sure that I’m there for them all the time that I can be,” Parker said.

PRESENCE: In her second year on the job, Lynda Parker has made a positive impression.

TODD A. BANNOR

Principal Parker greets students arriving for class.

During lunch on Fridays Parker has open hours for teachers to drop in and chat.

“I am very much one who likes to be in contact with the students because it helps me to see things from all points of view,” Parker said. “Not only do I want to do that for students but I want to do that for staf f as well. And not just for the teachers but as well my custodial staf f, food services, security, all of the dif ferent entities that make the building work which is a special challenge because the building is so big.”

Parker has brought war mth and encouragement to OPRF, a building that sometimes can seem somewhat dour and cold. She strives to connect with and uplift students, who sometimes can feel stressed and can sometimes get lost in the crowd at such a large school. She leaves her of fice door open as much as possible.

“Lynda goes very far to show kids her love for them and her genuine interest in their lives and wellbeing,” Director of Employee Recruitment and Retention Janel Bishop wrote in nominating Parker for the award. “This is a school of 3,400 students, and this is the first time a person in her role has been so well known and well-received in my 23 years of working here. Lynda holds great impor-

tance in the voice of the students.”

In her short time as principal Parker has spearheaded a host of initiatives to improve student wellness OPRF now has wellness workshops during an extended class period once a month. Last year OPRF adopted a new behavior education plan that includes restorative practices alongside accountability. Parker created a culture of the building committee aimed at creating a culture of war mth throughout the school and established new student engagement activities that celebrate positive behaviors These activities include inviting student groups to lead cultural heritage celebrations, hallway parades for state qualifiers, and Parker Perks currency for exhibiting positive Huskie Habits.

“I absolutely love being able to motivate young people,” Parker said.

Parker has worked to improve attendance and reduce tardiness. Last year chronic absenteeism at OPRF fell to 13.6 percent down significantly from 17.7 percent in the 2017-18 school year. The improvement in attendance was a major reason why OPRF ear ned the coveted Exemplary school rating from the Illinois State Board of Education in the most recent school report card

Superintendent Greg Johnson is a big fan of Parker’s work

“I am thrilled that Lynda’s positive effor ts for the students in this school are being reco gnized in such a public way,” ohnson was quoted as saying in press release issued by the school. “In education, we don’t work for the public accolades, but is so gratifying to see excellent work being reco gnized. I can’t think of anyone else ho’s more deserving of this award.”

Parker will now be in contention for Illinois Principal of the Year.

Parker, 50, came to OPRF in 2018 when she was hired as the Director of Student Services Up until then Parker, who grew up on the South Side of Chicago, had worked in Chicago public schools When she was a senior in high school at Kenwood Academy her counselor suggested that she had the makings of a good teacher and that emark set her on a career path that she seems to have been born for.

At DePaul University Parker was part of the first cohort of Golden Apple Scholars, students intending to become teachers who received special training and experiences through the Golden Apple Foundation.

Upon getting her bachelor’s de gree from DePaul Parker went back to Kenwood to teach math. She loved helping students overcome their fear of math and especially enjoyed tutoring and seeing students make progress. With the encouragement of an administrator who saw the way she related to students Parker decided to become a

school counselor She worked for four years at the Golden Apple Foundation while studying for a master’s de gree in school counseling from Roosevelt University. After she got her counseling de gree she went back to Kenwood as a counselor and rose to become the head of the school’s counseling department. In 2012 Parker was hired as an assistant principal at Or r Academy High School and after two years at Or r she moved on to an assistant principal position at King Colle ge Prep High School.

In 2018 a friend who was an OPRF parent suggested that Parker apply for the Student Services director job at OPRF. Parker’s mother had just died and it seemed like a good time to make a change and OPRF hired her Coming to OPRF from the Chicago Public Schools Parker was impressed by all the resources available at OPRF

“This is a great place; you have access to things that other schools just wish for,” Parker said.

Parker is not only war m and friendly; she is also driven.

“I’m always trying to think of how can I do this better,” Parker said.

She attends almost every event at OPRF, trying to be visible and encouraging. She loves to shine the light on student accomplishments. She loves her job and it shows.

“I have never questioned whether or not I should be an educator,” Parker said. “Like I know that whatever position I take I know that this is the career I’m supposed to be in.”

TODD A. BANNOR

TODD A. BANNOR

“I have never questioned whether or not I should be an educator.”

LYNDA PARKER OPRF principal

Winds cause small portion of West Sub façade to fall

Collapse occurred on vacant former nursing school building

By STACEY SHERIDAN Staff Reporter

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

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

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

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

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

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

No services are provided out of the building, so the accident did not cause any lapse in patient care The building has not been in use since West Suburban’s down, roughly a decade ag

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

Looking back at West Sub’s School of Nursing

The building on the West Sub campus which had the brick façade failure last week is the long empty School of Nursing. We asked the Historical Society of Oak Park and River Forest to scour its archives for images from back in the day.

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

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

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

Is seeing a local doctor too expensive?

¿Es demasiado caro ver a

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

ROYAL action

Members of Oak Park’s ROYAL, Revolutionar y Youth Action League, gathered Monday at Lake and Austin to mark the murder 11 years ago of Trayvon Martin in Florida. e activ ist organization chose the location to focus on building a connection between Oak Park and Austin, and to prov ide donations of essentials to community members. e group supports a defund police agenda.

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

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Visit t www BoostUpCookCounty com m or r call l 833-308-1988

Copagos de $5 por:

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Access to Care yel Departamentode Salud Pública del Condado de Cook trabajara juntos para educary proteger a las comunidades contraCOVID-19 y la gripe.

You Deserve Health Care You Can Trust AND Afford

most t meaningful l our r family y and d friends s lp p them m (and d o date e on n free e vaccines. . Vaccination n ur r best t weapon n d flu

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Recetas:

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para diabéticos Vacunas contra la gripe y la neumonía

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

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

and d older r is s eligible e to o receive e a COVID D vaccine e (1st, , 2nd d and d 3rd d doses) ) n be e vaccinated d or r boosted d for r COVID D & vaccinated d for r flu u at t the e same e time. . Visit t www BoostUpCookCounty com m or r call l 833-308-1988

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

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

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

Evaluación de elegibilidad para Medicaid

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

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

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yel Departamentode Salud Pública del Condado de Cook trabajara educary proteger a las comunidades contraCOVID-19 y la gripe.

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Man charged a er truck fatally strikes pedestrian

An Oak Park pedestrian was killed after being hit by a semi-tractor truck in the intersection of Madison Street and Harlem Avenue on Feb. 25. The truck driver, a 58-year-old man, has been charged with leaving the scene of the fatal crash.

The unidentified victim suf fered multiple blunt force injuries, according to the Cook County Medical Examiner’s Office.

Oak Park police arrested the driver at 11:52 p.m. the night of the incident in the 700 block of Lake Street. He was transported back to the police station, where he was processed and held for a bond hearing.

The Oak Pa rk Police Department did not respond to requests for more info rmation.

Aggravated assault, armed robbery arrest

A 26-year-old Chicago man from Chicago was arrested at McDonald’s, 111 Madison St., at 8:06 p.m., Feb. 20, for two counts of attempted armed robbery and two counts of aggravated assault against an Oak Park resident and a Country Club Hills resident.

Aggravated battery arrest

A 47-year-old man from Chicago was arrested at Rush Oak Park Hospital, 520 S. Maple Ave., for the aggravated battery to a police officer and a nurse at 8:35 a.m., Feb. 20.

Battery and theft arrest

A 37-year-old Chicago man alle gedly drank a bottle of wine without paying for it at the Beer Shop, 1026 North Blvd, and battered a Forest Park resident at 8:39 p.m., Feb. 26.

Burglary

■ Two cargo vans, a 2013 Chevrolet Express and a 2015 Chevrolet Express both owned by the same Oak Park resident, were broken into and ransacked overnight on Feb. 23- 24, in the 400 block of Harrison Street. No items were removed from the vehicles. The estimated damage done to the vans is valued at $400.

■ A vehicle’s owner watched a man enter his unlocked 2014 Mercedes Sprinter work

van and make of f with a pair of Ray-Ban sunglasses at 9:23 a.m., Feb. 21, in the 800 block of North Linden Avenue. The offender was last seen running away down an alley. The estimated loss is $200.

■ A resident caught two men using a crowbar to break into the resident’s home in the 1000 block of South Humphrey Avenue at 1:22 p.m. on Feb 22. After the victim shouted at them, the two men fled eastbound on Garfield Street in a 1990s hatchback vehicle. The total estimated damage is valued at $500.

Motor vehicle theft

■ A 2012 Hyundai Elantra parked in the 300 block of South Maple Avenue was removed overnight on Feb. 21-22. The vehicle was recovered by Chicago police at 3:46 p.m., Feb. 23, in the 1500 block of South Laflin Street in Chicago.

■ A 2017 Hyundai Sonata parked in the 800 block of South Boulevard was stolen between 5:45 p.m. on Feb. 21, and 7:20 p.m. on Feb. 22.

■ A 2021 Nissan Versa rental vehicle was stolen from the 1000 block of North Boulevard between 12:30 p.m. and 2:30 p.m. on Feb. 20.

■ Someone broke the rear passenger’s side window of a 2021 Hyundai Elantra then damaged the vehicle’s steering column and ignition while unsuccessfully trying to steal it around 7 a.m., Feb. 26, in the 100 block of North Grove Avenue.

Theft

■ Two packages, which contained a fleece

and jacket from the North Face, were taken from the front of a residence in the 800 block of Washington Boulevard between 11 a.m. on Feb. 22 and 11:05 a.m. on Feb. 24. The estimated loss is $130.

■ An Oak Park resident re ported Feb. 23 the theft of a 25-foot aluminum downspout that was attached to the northwest corner of the resident’s house in the 1200 block of Forest Avenue. The timeframe of the theft is unknown. The total loss is $100.

■ The catalytic converter was cut from a 2009 Honda CRV parked in the emergency room parking lot of West Suburban Medical Center, 3 Erie Ct., overnight on Feb. 2021.

Criminal proper ty damage

Someone broke the rear passenger’s side window of a 2014 Dodge work van parked in the 900 block of South Humphrey Avenue, but did not remove any items from the vehicle, sometime between 1 p.m. on Feb. 23 and 7 a.m. on Feb. 24. The estimated damage is $200.

These items were obtained from Oak Park Police Department re ports, Feb. 21-27, and re present a portion of the incidents to which police responded. Anyone named in these re ports has only been charged with a crime and cases have not yet been adjudicated. We re port the race of a suspect only when a serious crime has been committed, the suspect is still at large, and police have provided us with a detailed physical description of the suspect as they seek the public’s help in making an arrest.

Compiled by Stacey

Sheridan

What you get for the mone

Taking stock of multifamily options in Oak Park, River Forest and Forest Park

By LACEY SIKORA Contributing Reporter

According to the United States Census Bureau, the number of Americans living alone is on the uptick. In 1960, single-person households made up 13% of U.S. households. In 2021, 28% of all US households were oneperson households.

The Chicago Metropolitan Agency for Planning details local populations in smaller households in four-year increments. From 2016 to 2020, in Oak Park, 35.3% of households were made up of one person, and 30% of the housing stock was zero to one-bedroom in size

River Forest has a similar number of oneperson households at 31.8% of the population, but only 10% of its housing stock is zero to one bedroom. In Forest Park, 42.7% of adults lived in a one-person household and 34.6% of housing stock was zero to onebedroom.

According to a 2021 study by the Institute for Housing Studies at DePaul University, c

housing stock in Oak Park, and rental multifamily buildings make up another 40%, according to the Institute for Housing Studies at DePaul University.

In River Forest, condos are roughly 28% of housing stock, and apartments approximately 10%. In Forest Park, approximately 68% of housing stock is condominium or rental units

A look at one-bedroom units currently for sale or for rent show that the market for the smaller units is robust in Oak Park and Forest Park. A one-bedroom unit in River Forest is hard to come by.

1-bedroom condominiums for sale

There are currently 12 one-bedroom condominiums on the market in Oak Park

At the high end of the market is 839 Madison St., Unit 307. The planned development

is Oak Park’s first co-housing development, with an estimated completion date of August 2024.

The one-bedroom, one-bathroom unit comes with a parking space and will feature 42-inch kitchen cabinets, quartz countertops, a high-efficiency HVAC system and a balcony. Residents will also share several common spaces including a great room, library and exercise room.

The building is going to be sustainable with a national green build rating of silver. The 665-square-foot unit is listed at $282,193. The least expensive one-bedroom condo on the market is 426 S. Lombard, Unit 104. The short-sale property is being sold for $105,000. Built in 1966, the vintage brick building offers outdoor parking, a green space and shared laundry

See 1-BEDROOM on pa ge 18

A one-bedroom condo selling for $159,900 at 241 Washing ton Blvd., in a vintage 1930 building, measures 850 square feet and boasts nishes such as hardwood oors and granite countertops as well as in-unit laundry and an updated kitchen

REDFIN.COM

is one-bedroom condo at 435 William St. in River Forest measures 1,107 square feet.

1 BEDROOM

Range of options

from page 17

The unit has one parking space. HOA fees are $230 a month and property taxes are approximately $3,300 a year.

Right in the middle is 241 Washington Blvd, Unit 3A, priced at $159,900. The vintage 1930 courtyard building has a brick exterior. The 850-square-foot unit has one bedroom and one bathroom.

The top-floor unit also boasts hardwood floors, granite countertops in the kitchen, an updated bathroom and in-unit laundry. HOA fees are $281 a month and property taxes run $2,445. There is no parking.

River Forest has a single one-bedroom unit available, at 435 William Street, Unit 210. Priced at $365,000, the unit measures 1,107 square feet. The building was constructed in 2000 and has an elevator. Unit 210 features hardwood flooring, a balcony, in-unit laundry and a parking space. Located on the secondfloor, the unit also has central air conditioning. The property taxes on the unit are $6,651 and HOA fees are $357 a month.

In Forest Park, a whopping 34.6% of the multifamily market, both rental and occupant-owned, is in the zero to one-bedroom category. There a currently nine one-bedroom condominiums for sale.

At the high-end of the price scale, 7757 Van Buren St., Unit 304 is for sale for $240,000. The unit was built in 2003 and offers 965 square feet. The unit has hardwood flooring, in-unit laundry and two closets in the bedroom.

The building comes with a heated garage, a fitness room and bike storage. Property taxes

The lowest priced one-bedroom condo on the market in Forest Park is 314 Lathrop, Unit 203, measuring in at 760 square feet. Priced at $94,500, the unit is a classified as HUD home, meaning it is sold as-is, and the seller may assist with the buyer’s closing costs

T he building was built in 1977 and does not have central air conditioning. The unit comes with a parking space, a property tax bill of $1,002 and HOA fees of $230

The rental market

National Multi-Family Housing Council data shows that one-bedroom rentals are the largest share of rental properties in the United States, making up roughly 41% of apartment rentals.

According to Apartments.com, there are 213 one-bedroom apartments available for rent in Oak Park.

At the upper end of the one-bedroom rental market is the newer high-rise, The Albion, at 1000 Lake St. Unit 1310 is currently being marketed for $2,410 a month. The unit spans

713 square feet and has in-unit laundry, a fireplace and an island in the kitchen. The building is LEED-certified and has a fitness center, resident lounge and in-building coffee shop

On the least expensive side of the scale is 908 Lyman Ave., Unit 2A, which rents for $905 a month. The vintage building is walking distance to the Blue Line, has new appliances and newly sanded hardwood floors, and the rent includes heat, cooking gas and water. There are laundry facilities in the building.

Apartments.com has no listings for onebedroom apartment rentals in River Forest, but it show a handful of one-bedroom condominiums listed for rent, including 7206 Oak Ave., Unit 1NW. The first-floor unit is priced at $1,150 per month and has parquet floors.

Forest Park currently has approximately 20 buildings with one-bedroom apartments available for rent. The apartments at 7535 W. Jackson Blvd. include hardwood flooring in a vintage building for a range of $1,175 to 1,210 per month.

The newer Grand Park Apartments building at 1005 Desplaines Ave. has a number of one-bedroom units available, with rents ranging from $1,200 to 1,525. The building has a newly remodeled fitness center and an onsite dog park

APART MENTS.COM

Units in the Grand Park Apartments on Despl aines Avenue in Forest Park (above and at right) range from $1,200 to $1,525 per month.

APART MENTS.COM

Unit 1310 in e Albion, a new high rise in Oak Park, is 713 square feet and rents for $2,410 per month.

OPRF’s Meister sets new school pole va record at 16-1

Senior zooms past previous record of 15-9 set in 2009

By MELVIN TATE

Contributing

Reporter

Oak Park and River Forest High School boys track and field athlete Josh Meister had a historic day at the OPRF Indoor Invitational on Feb. 18.

Meister, a senior, cleared 16 feet, 1 inch in the pole vault to establish a new school record in the event. The previous record of 15-9 was set by Peter Geraghty in 2009. The vault is the highest in Illinois this year in Class 3A and tied for the highest in all classes. It’s also good for 13th in the country.

“It was really incredible,” Meister said. “I thought it was awesome how the entire fieldhouse was just completely silent and then started cheering the second I got over the bar. It was an amazing feeling.”

With the event championship already in the bag, Meister had his choice of heights and first selected 15-10. After clearing that

to set a new school more inches – and cleared that as w

“He probably time to come,”

“I’ve been here bar higher than house].”

OPRF assistant works with the felt confident Meister of his approach.

“This season, shell and I’m trying of a leadership progression for to be a leader and it’s important to letes.”

Meister set a goal of this year and about when he decided to go for the record

“I’ve been having tice in trying to beat my personal record [of 15-6],” he said. “Once I got that taken care of, I felt I should really go for a number that would break a record, and I wanted to make sure I keep it for a long time.”

Oak Park and River Forest High School senior Josh Meister clears the bar dur ing the Huskie Indoor Invitational on Feb. 18. Meister cleared 16 feet, 1 inch to set a new OPRF record in the pole vault, surpassing the prev ious mark of 15-9 set by Peter Geraghty in 2009.

doors to outdoors and not lose height is key. We want to keep building, and I have high hopes he’ll be able to clear the Fieldhouse record [16-7] before he goes.”

Meister said the University of Illinois at

School. It’s an event featuring the top vaulters in the state.

“That’s a big one for Josh, and hopefully he’ll be able to hit 16 and above again,” Weismantle said.

Two OPRF girls wrestle to 4th place at state meet

White, Ephstein improve over last season, will return next year

By MELVIN TATE

Contributing Reporter

The Oak Park and River Forest High School girls wrestling team had two individuals par ticipate in the IHSA state fi-

SPORTS ROUNDUP

nals Feb. 24-25 at Grossinger Motors Arena in Bloomington, with each finishing on the podium

Junior Trinity White (27-7) finished fourth at 170 pounds, while junior Sarah Ephstein (34-6) was fourth at 235 pounds.

“They battled hard,” said OPRF coach Fred Arkin. “They did a little better than last year.”

White (27-7) opened her tour nament with

a 12-4 major decision over Bailey Her r of Putnam County, then defeated Belleville East’s Kami Ratcliff 3-0 in the quar terfinals

In the semifinals, she lost 6-1 to eventual state champion August Rottmann of Highland. After bouncing back in the wrestleback with a 5-1 victory over Andrew’s Mickaela Keane, she was pinned by ZionBenton’s Ileen Castrejon in the third-place match.

“Trinity had a great tour nament and

a very good season,” Arkin said. “She worked hard and got better every week.”

Ephstein took a dif ferent route to fourth place After pinning Tinley Park’s Emma Akpan in the first round, she lost 11-5 to eventual state champion Kiara Ganey of Belleville East in the quar terfinals.

Ephstein then ran of f three consecutive wrestleback victories: 1-0 over Rye Reyes of Conant, a pin of Batavia’s Sue Sue Paw

See ROUNDUP on pa ge 20

TODD PHILLIPS

Resurgent Friars top Payton to take regional title

Back from injur y, Marshall scores 15 to spark Fenwick boys

By MELVIN TATE Contributing Reporter

Fenwick High School sophomore Nate Marshall is one of Illinois top football prospects in the Class of 2025, already having re ceived several major college offers

He’s also an important part of the boys basketball team, but missed most of thi year due to injury.

However, his recent retur n has given the Friars a spark, one that was evident durin a 70-47 victory over visiting Payton College Prep on Feb. 24 in the IHSA Class 3A Fenwick Regional title game.

“It feels great to be back,” said Marshall, who scored 15 points “We played hard, but I also feel we can play harder.”

Caleb Burgins hit a buzzer-beating 3-pointer to end the first quarter, then Dominick Ducree nailed a three in the closing seconds of the first half to provide the Friars (20-12) a huge boost.

“We just stuck with the game plan, and I feel that since we’re so young, we can have a lot of energy,” said sophomore D.J. Porter, who had a game-high 17 points.

Fenwick coach Tony Young was especially pleased with his team’s ball handling as the Friars committed just five tur novers.

“I thought we played well together,” he said. “It’s one game at a time and every game is a business trip, so we’ve got to keep work-

SPORTS ROUNDUP

from page 19

and a pin of Rickover Naval Academy’s Jasmine Mejia. In the third-place match, she was pinned by Jurdan Tyler of Urbana.

“To win three matches in a row [at state] is not easy to do,” Arkin said. “Sarah’s thirdplace match was close, but she got put on her back at the end.”

Arkin looks forward to White and Ephstein back next year The Huskies lose only one senior, Andrea Munoz, from this season’s team.

“This was a developmental year and ev-

Fenw ick’s Nathaniel Marshall (le ) dribbles past a Payton Prep player dur ing the Friars’ 70-47 w in on Feb. 24 in an IHSA regional nal matchup.

ing.”

Darshan Thomas added 10 points and eight rebounds for Fenwick, which advanced to the IHSA Class 3A De La Salle Sectional semifinals The Friars faced the host Meteors, a 65-38 winner over Schurz in a regional final, on Feb. 28, after Wednesday Jour nal’s print deadline.

De La Salle defeated the short-handed Friars during the regular season, 56-49 on Dec 1. But Young wants to find out how his now fully healthy team fares in the rematch.

erybody grew week to week,” said Arkin. “I could see the hard work paying off in their growth, and we’ ll look forward to the next few seasons.”

OPRF boys swimmers 11th at state

The OPRF boys swimming and diving team finished 11th at the IHSA state finals Feb. 24-25 at FMC Natatorium in Westmont, amassing 38.5 points.

“I was proud of how the guys were able to keep their momentum from sectionals,” said OPRF coach Clyde Lundgren. “They did about as well as they could, given where they were seeded.”

Senior Emmett Har mon and junior Lars

SARA JANZ

“It’s always good to see a conference team in the playoffs, because you know it’s going to be a good game,” he said. “As long as everyone continues to do his part, execute, share the ball and leave it all on the court, we’ ll always have a shot.”

Lincoln Park ends OPRF’s postseason

The Oak Park and River Forest High School boys basketball team lost eight

Rauch both placed in the top 12 in their respective events Har mon tied for 11th in the 100-yard butterfly with a time 50.63 seconds, while Rauch was 10th in the 100-yard freestyle with a time of 46.28.

The Huskies also had two relays finish in the top 12, with the 200-yard freestyle relay of Rauch, Adan Pedraza, Will Keyes and Harmon finishing fifth in a time of 1:24.79, and the 400-yard freestyle relay of Keyes, Harmon, Pedraza and Rauch seventh at 3:06.97.

“I couldn’t be more proud,” Lundgren said. “We had some good, quality people working together this season for a common goal and created awesome opportunities as a result.”

Fenwick High School finished 25th in the team standings with 14 points The Friars

games by five points or less during the regular season.

Against visiting Lincoln Park on Feb. 22 in an IHSA Class 4A regional semifinal, the Huskies once again were competitive, but couldn’t get over the hump in a season-ending 62-60 defeat. OPRF ended the season with seven consecutive losses

“It’s the same thing that’s happened for us all year, late missed free throws and tur novers,” said OPRF coach Phil Gary. “We still had a chance to win, but it was another close game we couldn’t finish.”

Sophomore Justin Bowen and juniors Jaziah Harper and Max Johnson all had 17 points apiece for the Huskies (9-19).

“Jaziah had a breakout game with a couple of dunks,” Gary said. “He really showed us a lot from start to finish this year Max and Justin also had good games.”

When healthy, Johnson and senior Christian Marshall made for a good backcourt. Unfortunately, they were together for just seven games this year as each battled injuries.

“We didn’t get to see them together a lot, which was hurtful,” Gary said.

OPRF loses five players to graduation, including Marshall, Rodney Mur phy and Paul Kitch. But, Bowen, Harper and Johnson retur n next year along with three other key contributors in junior Mehki Austin and sophomores Alex Gossett and Alex Vincent.

“I told them to remember this moment,” said Gary. “Remember how the seniors were in tears, because you don’t want it to happen to you next year. We’ve got to go forward and, hopefully, we’ ll lear n from this season and tur n these close losses into wins.”

had two relays place in the top 12.

“I’m proud of our year and what we were able to accomplish,” said Fenwick coach Steve Thompson.

Carter Fask, Code Podogorski, Patrick Rhatigan and Sam Kulisek made up Fenwick’s 200-yard freestyle relay, which came in ninth at 1:25.23. Rhatigan, Tomas Adomaitis, Finn Munley and Kulisek comprised the Friars’ 400-yard freestyle relay, which was 10th in 3:08.07.

With the exception of Kulisek, all of those relay swimmers retur n next year for the Friars.

“They gained a lot of experience this year, and it will be fun to see how they continue to develop,” Thompson said.

DEADLINE FOR SUBMISSIONS IS FRIDAY 5 P.M.

Call Viewpoints editor

Ken Trainor at 613-3310

ktrainor@wjinc.com

ONSCIOUS A GING

Aging with intention saved my life

We have a Berkey water filter in our kitchen and it seems to be empty whenever I’m thirsty for a glass of water, so I’m used to filling it back up. It takes three full blender pitchers to fill it, and it’s just one of those little things I take for g ranted. Like a good night’s slee p, or walking up three flights of stairs, or having lunch with my good friend of 40 years.

Five months ago, I had unexpected hear t surgery and, after a week in the hospital post-op ent back home. But since I wasn’t allowed to lift anything heavier than a half-g allon of milk, I couldn’t fill the Berke water filter. And it wasn’t just doctor’s orders — physically, I couldn’t do just about anything I didn’t think twice about doing before the surgery. I couldn’t even put my own socks on by myself. Talk about feeling like getting hit by a truck. That first month after surgery was primitively tough.

ev erywhere

BLESOFF

The hear t surgery was unexpected because I was pretty much asymptomatic. The thing that caught my attention was the four or five times I got shor t of breath while walking the do g. When I felt it, I stopped walking and waited a few minutes until it went away. But I have a family history of hear t failure and for years I’ve fit the profile of a likely candidate

So I said something to my doctor about my shor tness of breath. This was very out of character for me. For most of my life, I would notice an ailment — physical or emotional — and just ignore it. If it was 10 years ago, I would have just been macho and pushed through the shor tness of breath. I have a strong physique and a pig-headed streak. But for some reason, this time I said something.

I don’t think just having 10 additional bir thdays automatically makes anyone wiser. I do think that aging with intention — not just out of habit — of fers the possi-

See BLESOFF on pa ge 25

The ceremony of innocence is drowned.

William Butler Yeats

Without heat, there is no life. Without heat, there is no us. Absolute zero is the temperature 0 Kelvin, -273° Celsius, -460° Fahrenheit. At that temperature, movement ceases. Molecules — even atoms — stop. Decay, disorder, and dissolution are not possible … because nothing is possible. At absolute zero, everything is frozen into a single state where events do not occur. Nothing ever occurs.

At times, that can feel preferable to the world where we must live. If nothing can occur, there can be no change, no loss, no pain, no regret. But there can also be no laughter, no feeling, no joy.

With too much heat, disorder runs rampant. Living systems decay, dehydrate, and disintegrate. Many things are possible — perhaps too many things. Systems are shaken up and shaken apart. As heat increases, systems are replaced with new, less stable ones where outcomes are unknown and unpredictable. Organisms that developed in one temperature range can no longer survive in a higher range. There can still be joy, pain, laughter, regret, happiness, and sadness. But quickly or slowly, life is overwhelmed. We are overwhelmed. Things fall apart.

Neither too much, nor too little solar radiation. We have pushed ourselves to the edge of these narrow zones. We have pumped excess carbon dioxide into the atmosphere, heating up our planet toward the limit of what we ca n handle We have dumped nearly indestructible plastics onto our land and into our waters. We have filled our skies with chemical gases and particulates. The blood-dimmed tide is loosed

When will we realize that this is unacceptable? When will we act to move ourselves back within the narrow planetary zone that supports our lives? Or at least cease to push ourselves further outside of it? Why do we seek decay and disorder? And if we do not act, how long will it be until we visit upon ourselves the frozen endstate of civilizational death? The ceremony of innocence is drowned

I know we cannot put things back together again, not the way they were when we found them. But perhaps we can stem the tide and rescue the drowning. Perhaps we can stop the destruction and find our way toward a new state of balance. A place where we can rebuild our planetary society into one that lives in har mony with the natural world of which we are just one part I pray that we will do so. I will do my part to make it so Jim Schwartz is an Oak Park resident, an educator, and a blogger at Entwining.org.

ings we like

We like spring and it is here. We love baseball and it is back. So while we are in a cheery mood, here are some other things we like around Oak Park and River Forest.

Empty Bowls: This wonderful, thoughtful fundraiser is back, in-person, this Friday. For 20 years, inspired teachers and students at OPRF High School have pulled to gether such diverse threads to connect our villages. Students in ceramics class throw the pottery bowls over months of lear ning and good work. They eng age local restaurants to provide soup to fill the bowls. And they invite our neighbors to gather at the school for a meal with a mission.

Guests pay to be par t of the soup and bread dinner and they go home with a hand-crafted bowl. Beyond Hunger and Housing Forward are two local nonprofits that benefit along with an inter national hunger nonprofit

It is simple and about perfect.

Citizen Police Oversight Commission: In its six-month re port to Oak Park’s village board last week, CPOC raised concer ns, again, about of ficers too frequently failing to tur n on the limited recording devices the police de par tment cur rently provides. That’s newsworthy and needs to be actively corrected.

More impor tantly, though, it becomes clearer through its own pushing, with support from the village president and board, and, we are hopeful, the new police chief, that the authority of this volunteer commission to impact policing in this town is growing. Coupled with the detailed recommendations of the Ber ryDunn consultant’s re port, the contours of actual, intentional reform and reinvention of how we provide public safety are taking shape

At a time when a recent community survey shows that Oak Parkers feel less safe, the emphasis needs to be on more change in policing. That ’s the path.

ROYAL rally: Was good to see members of ROYAL, Revolutionary Youth Action League, gather Monday at Lake and Austin to commemorate the murder 11 years ago of Trayvon Mar tin in F lorida. This is the fourth year ROYAL has marked this anniversary with an event focused on connection between Oak Park and Austin, to share a healing moment, provide donations of essentials to community members, and to push its agenda of “defunding police.”

These are young people who are persevering and mission focused. Good work by them.

The wonderful Doug Wyman: We car ry the obituary today for Doug Wyman. He died on Feb. 24 at the age of 95. Optimistic. Caring. A steady war rior. A man of faith. A man who loved his wife with passion. Doug was an activist for social justice, for good gover nment right here in this village. Kind, funny, war m. A hugger.

Doug was a one-man connector. He knitted and glued people and causes and neighbors to gether in a way we don’t ever recall and fear we will not see again.

Godspeed to this great man.

This past weekend, a few friends and I completed our quest to see the Best Picture nominees, leading up to the Oscar ceremony on March 12. Here are a few of my thoughts on the honored 10:

Oscar hopefuls: Mostly cloudy, partly sunny KEN TRAINOR

All Quiet on the Western Front: The film to end all wars. This is the last movie about World War I trench warfare that I plan to watch. After this, there will be no reason to watch another. This German production is the ultimate depiction of the utter futility of that war, and all warfare. The film’s score is almost worth the grueling ordeal of watching it

Avatar: The Way of Water, like the first Avatar, is a visual/special effects ride, which is thrilling, though it descends into yet another apocalyptic, drawn-out battle between good and evil. Hollywood is in a deep rut on good/evil combat orgies, which is why I have swor n off superhero slugfests

The Banshees of Inisherin also descends, this time into a grudge allegory, friend vs. friend, with Ireland’s civil war (unseen) as the backdrop. The film is a testament to cutting off your nose to spite your face, but with a twist. Think fingers. Fortunately, there is something resembling reconciliation and a hint of redemption at the end. It’s worth watching because the Irish deployment of the English language is second to none. As lilting as brogue is, however, make sure you watch it with subtitles

Elvis: The sad story of a great talent, misguided by a con artist who ultimately did more harm than good. Tom Hanks plays his first villain in the role of Col. Parker, the phenom’s mis-manager. A cautionary tale to be sure as we watch Elvis’ tragic descent, but I still came away with a better understanding, and appreciation, for his place in the cultural pantheon.

Everything Everywhere All at Once is disorienting at first. But it’s really just two things happening in one harried woman’s life — all at once. Michelle Yeoh, who could win Best Actress, plays an ordinary-extraordinary woman trying to keep her small business going and her family together, then switches and plays an extraordinary-ordinary superhero trying to prevent the entire universe from being swallowed by a black hole. It’s confusing, but so is life, metaphorically speaking. When she stops trying to control the universe, her life problems finally begin to resolve. My second favorite film on the list.

The Fabelmans: Another fine Steven Spielberg film for Academy members to ignore. Not quite as good as Lincoln (which was ignored in 2013 in favor of Argo. Does anyone even remember Argo?), Fabelmans semiautobiographically traces Spielberg’s development as a

filmmaker, but it’s really a moving love letter to his parents. I saw it twice and liked it even better the second time. If Michelle Yeoh doesn’t get Best Actress, Michelle Williams should for her role as Spielberg’s mom.

But the Oscar will probably go to Cate Blanchett, yet again. Tar is about a female orchestral conductor at the top of her game and career, who suffers a great fall because her character flaws and choices under mine her. It’s a classic tragic-hero trajectory, which seems to be the favorite scenario of “serious” filmmakers these days, i.e. descent (see Elvis above). Yet another amazing acting tur n by Hollywood’s new Meryl Streep. A fellow film buff, a conductor herself, has a better take on this film: “Depicting the complexities of a woman in this field is done so very well, which distinguishes this work.” She’s right.

Top Gun: Maverick has no business being as good as it is. I didn’t think much of the first Top Gun 40 years ago, so this version was doubly surprising. Tom Cruise’s hotshot character actually evolves — it’s no longer all about him. It’s about team, a refreshing and much-needed message that would not have been appreciated in the hyper-individualistic 1980s, but is most welcome now. It may not be Best Picture material, but if they had a category for wildly exceeding expectations, this would be the winner.

Triangle of Sadness: A mess of a movie, but a brilliant satire about economic inequality, about an hour too long, maybe because the filmmaker couldn’t figure out how to begin and end it. But if you’re looking for a film where the wealthy elite get what’s coming to them, this is your movie, featuring one of the most prolonged gross-out gour met dining sequences in cinematic history. The film is, alas, not hopeful about humanity’s prospects. Think Lord of the Flies for the 1%.

Women Talking is my favorite on this list. It, too, deals with a harsh reality, but consists largely of a group of women discussing what to do about it. The choices are 1) do nothing, 2) stay and fight back, or 3) leave, en masse. In the process of thoroughly hashing all this out, we see women of all ages at their finest and not-so-finest, but always honest. This is a celebration of feminine power and passion as they come to consensus on how to stand up to violent patriarchy. And the song, “Daydream Believer” by the Monkees, never sounded so good

These are quality films, but too often they’re about descent when what we really need is uplift. Still, they serve an important function, exploring who we think we are, who we really are, and who we wish we were.

May the best dream win.

Republicans are a noisy bunch of toddlers

Toddlers love to say “no.” It’s a healthy way (I guess) of developing autonomy. They bang on their high chair trays, they yell, call people names, cry and throw things. It’s hard for them to share, and one of their favorite words is “Mine!” If thwar ted, they might throw tantrums. Like cer tain Re publicans

Grown-ups’ tantrums can be tiresome, like a toddler’s tantrums. However, when adults throw tantrums, it’s not only disquieting and embar rassing, it’s a form of bullying and manipulation. Adult tantrums are shocking, particularly if the person is running a country or a member of a governing body, and has power that might be dangerous

MARY KAY O’GRADY

For mer White House aide Cassidy Hutchinson testified under oath that for mer and would-be Republican President Donald Trump’s tantrums were frequent, that Trump would throw plates and flip tablecloths in his angry outbursts. She testified that Trump’s fury when his attor ney general said the election was le gitimate was so intense that he threw his lunch at a wall, breaking the dish and splattering ketchup. According to Ms. Hutchinson, that was one of several incidents in which he broke plates in rage She also famously testified that Trump was once so ang ry that he lunged at a Secret Service agent in his car and tried to grab the steering wheel.

Re publicans have made tantrums part of the le gislative process. Consider the spectacle of a group of members of Cong ress sitting in the back of the chamber — not unlike the “juvenile delinquents” in movies from the ’50s and ’60s — heckling Kevin McCarthy when he was trying to get enough votes to be Speaker of the House.

At that time the primary hecklers were Cong ressman Matt Gaetz, whose re putation has been tarnished by a preference for the company of teenage girls; Lauren Boebert, who doesn’t see why she can’t

car ry a gun on the floor of the House of Re presentatives (does she car ry a gun in her of fice?); and the satanic Paul Gosar, who drew gruesome pictures of assassinating Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez. (Sadly and ironically, he now holds the seat once held by Gabby Giffords).

Perhaps they’ve been struck by the behavior disease that has brought down actor Bruce Willis: frontotemporal dementia, which damages areas in the brain that control empathy, judgment and conduct.

During the voting for Speaker of the House, blonde moron Marjorie Taylor Green had wor med her way into a seat up front, close to McCarthy. She made her way to the back several times, ostensibly car rying barg aining chips back and for th. Gaetz, Boeber t and Gosar were having fun being hold-outs, relishing the TV cameras on them constantly.

At one point, McCarthy, whose ambition makes him impervious to insults and catcalls, also came back and barg ained his way to a final vote for the speakership. Despite the lack of high-chair trays to bang on, “les trois petits” cong ratulated themselves And McCarthy made his way back — ag ain — to thank them for making all his dreams come true.

Catcalls and abuse continued during President Biden’s State of the Union speech. (Some of us comfor ted ourselves by thinking about how members of Britain’s Parliament car ry on). Blonde moron Marjorie Taylor Greene (in a fur ry get-up apparently channeling Mae West? Jean Harlow? Marilyn Monroe?) was on her feet frequently heckling the President. He never lost his cool or his smile

Re garding those hijinks, USA Today’s Rex Huppke must be given the last word on Biden’s reaction: “Republicans ran at him li ke a pack of lemmings and, with a wink and a g rin, he politely directed them to the clif f.”

If only.

Join our Zoom candidates forum on March 7

Arbor West Neighbors is a grassroots org anization that supports and enriches aging through community building and advocacy. On Tuesday, March 7 at 7 p.m., we will be hosting a for um on Zoom with all the candidates for Oak Pa rk Village Trustee. The forum will focus on public policy issues that are of concer n to older people in Oak Park It is open to all interested persons

WEDNESD AY JOURNAL

of Oak Park and River Forest

Editor and Publisher Dan Haley

Senior Editor Bob Uphues

Digital Manager Stacy Coleman

Staff Repor ters Stacey Sher idan, Shanel Romain

Viewpoints Editor Ken Trainor

Real Estate Editor Lacey Sikora

Big Week Editor James Porter

Columnists Marc Bleso , Jack Crowe, Doug Deuchler, Harriet Hausman, Mary Kay O’Grady, Kwame Salter, John Stanger

Design/Production Manager Andrew Mead

Editorial Design Manager Javier Govea

Designer Susan McKelvey

Marketing Representatives Marc Stopeck, Lourdes Nicholls, Kamil Brady

Business & Development Manager Mary Ellen Nelligan

Circulation Manager Jill Wagner E-MAIL jill@oakpark.com

Special Projects Manager Susan Walker

Chairman Emeritus Robert K. Downs

BOARD OF DIRECTORS

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

About Viewpoints

Our mission is to lead educated conversation about the people, government, schools, businesses and culture of Oak Park and River Forest. As we share the consensus of Wednesday Journal’s editorial board on local matters, we hope our voice will help focus your thinking and, when need be, re you to action

In a healthy conversation about community concerns, your voice is also vital. We welcome your views, on any topic of community interest, as essays and as letters to the editor. Noted here are our stipulations for ling.

Please understand our veri cation process and circumstances that would lead us not to print a letter or essay. We will call to check that what we received with your signature is something you sent. If we can’t make that veri cation, we will not print what was sent. When, in addition to opinion, a letter or essay includes information presented as fact, we will check the reference. If we cannot con rm a detail, we may not print the letter or essay.

If you have questions, email Viewpoints editor Ken Trainor at ktrainor@wjinc.com.

LET TER TO THE EDITOR

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Questions for the candidates or general questions about the for um may be directed to Edward Solan at edsolan@gmail.com.

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e weather is nice, but don’t forget we’re doomed

As I step out on a beautiful day in Oak Park and River Forest, I am in awe! I can’t believe we have relatively dodg ed the re putation of the Chicago arctic winter.

EL SERUMAGA

In November I went into semi-mour ning for the coming weather as December was approaching and I expected we would have multiple snow events. The almanac prediction was for a harsh Chicago winter. Yes. Really. “La Nina winter forecast: Chicago should brace for more snow than nor mal in winter 2022-2023, NOAA says.” (ABC-7 Chicago, Oct. 21, 2022).

There it is, science said so. This winter was supposed to be bad. Everyone is allowed a mistake in life or two, even science and weather forecasters. So I patiently waited through December, fully sure that January would give us horrible, arctic, frigid, cold weather, the kind that slaps you in the face with needle-pricking cold. It’s a time where the leading cause of death is January, which does not fail to bring cold to Chicago.

But the strangest thing happened: January came and yes there was a small snowstor m, but there was no arctic chill. There was no polar vortex, even when the rest of the country experienced strange weather

anomalies. My faith remained solid. If December and January were war mer than usual, we would definitely have the worst blizzard of our lives in February.

Yet, alas, Our Lady of Global Warming, the patron saint of warm weather, destruction of ecosystems, and deterioration of natural habitats due to changes caused by the war ming effects on the Earth, were as kind as a kitten to Chicago, which received the best benefit of such a formidable and destructive force.

I don’t know how to feel about that. I am conflicted. If I were a caveperson, I would imagine myself pointing to climate change saying, “Climate-change bad. Chicagoweather good.” Am I supposed to feel exuberant that we have escaped the terror of an overabundance of fluffy balls of water falling from the sky and arctic temperatures? Do I feel like we have won the weather lottery even when California is having an existential crisis because it is snowing in almost March? It is hard to remember that global war ming and climate change is bad even when the effects are being so good to “Sweet Home Chicago.”

Walking and driving around Oak Park and River Forest, it’s easy to get excited that it’s

ca

it’s time to be concerned — even while we go outside in just a sweater or do the Chicagostyle thing and wear a puffer jacket with shorts. We can feel the warmth of the sun on our faces and take a non-brisk walk in the sunshine in a season that is still technically winter

start your spring cleaning early and air out your house but remember: This is bad!

EL Serumaga is a resident of River Forest and founder of ecovici.com, a site for products from only sustainable vendors.

Support for Brian Straw for village board

Oak Park voters,

I want to recommend Brian Straw for the Village Board of Trustees in our April 4 election. I met Brian last fall after a car slammed into my family’s house, demolishing our front steps and porch, while we were in our front room near dinnertime. It was a miracle nobody was in the driver’s path and killed.

For years, village hall had shrugged of f the repeated traffic collisions at our intersection, putting students crossing the street (we live near OPRF High School) in danger, not to mention my family Failed “solutions” included a pedestrian blinker that drivers ignore every day and speed radars that appeared on our block but soon stop functioning.

In November 2022, when a stranger’s bloodsoaked vehicle stayed wedged into my house for five days as the village slowly decided which approval from which agency could generate their prefer red permit to have the car extracted, Brian learned what we were going through and reached out. He expressed compassion and listened to the history of inaction and the clear dangers presented

by traffic mismanagement where I li . In his role on the Oak Park Transportation Commission, Brian included us in discussing wh features were encouraging reckless asked intelligent questions, and ne my concer ns.

Most importantly, he saw local go lig ation to act. Because of Brian info specific street design I wasn’t aware of previousl I’ve been able to advocate and pa ing it happen. We’re optimistic now to-be-safer block for everyone.

What a relief to encounter someone in tem who’s effective at achieving wh helpful — not passing the buck or study when residents have an urgent concern with life-or-death stakes for people.

As a longtime Oak Parker, I want a that’s responsive and efficient and solution-oriented.

That’s why I’m voting for Brian Straw.

Patrick O’Shaughnessey Oak Park

e reason he supports Brian Straw

Sunset the Invest in Kids Act

Public schools are the bedrock of our democracy and a wonderful investment in our children. Illinois public education is offered to children, no matter their race, gender, religion, the language spoken at home, or whether they live in a rural or urban community. Public schools welcome all families, accommodate any disability that affects learning, and help students achieve their potential.

The Evidence-Based Funding for Student Success Act (EBF) was signed in 2017 and overhauled the Illinois public school finance system. The for mula required an increased investment in state aid to local schools and set 2027 as the deadline. The legislature increased the education budget by the promised minimum in just 4 of the past 5 years, and at that rate schools will still not be adequately funded across the state until another generation of children has graduated. More funding for education is needed for our students today

School voucher programs, like the 2017 Invest in Kids Act, divert hard-earned tax dol-

lars from public schools into private, including religious, schools. Additionally, many of the private schools are not equipped to manage special needs and refer those children to public schools for assistance. Research shows that voucher programs do not improve student outcomes. The groups that administer the program, “scholarship granting organizations,” take 5% in administration costs off the top of the fund. Meanwhile property taxes continue to rise to offset the loss of tax dollars necessary for quality public education.

Everyone who has benefitted from the Invest in Kids program, including the private schools, the scholarship granting organizations and the donors, knew the act was intended to be time limited. Now they have marshalled lobbyists and mounted ad campaigns to urge the legislature to continue the Invest in Kids voucher program. It’s time to sunset Invest in Kids and invest in all our children’s education.

Jane Hastings and Joan Peter til Co-presidents, League of Women Voters of OP-RF

A Biblical rebuttal

After reading “Oak Park Temple Celebrates a Woman’s Right to Choose” [News, Feb. 22] my thoughts turned to some verses in the book of Psalms. I’m certainly not a Biblical scholar and can’t fully understand the challenges of an unplanned pregnancy, but I take joy in the richness of these words:

For you created my inmost being;

BLESOFF

Saving my life from page 21

bility of getting closer to being the person we’d like to be. As we age, the things we think are really important can change. As we age, we tend to slow down, to contemplate and to reflect. Saying something to my doctor probably saved my life. I can’t pinpoint exactly what made me speak up for myself; I’m sure there’s a variety of factors. I said something because I had changed as I’ve aged.

After I said something, my doctor said

You knit me together in my mother’s womb.

I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made;

Your works are wonderful.

(139:13.14 New International Version of the Bible)

James Hanert Oak Park

“take a stress test.” After the results of the stress test, my doctor said “have an angiogram.” Before I was even off the angiogram table, my doctor said “tremendous blockage, you need to have surgery right away.” And a week later I did.

If I’d still been my for mer macho-man self, there’s no telling what would have happened. After the bypass surgery and the new valve, my heart’s good for another 20 years or so. That doesn’t mean I’m guaranteed another 20 years of life, but I’m still alive for now, and I’m appreciating many of those little things that I used to take for granted.

And at the same time this after noon, I filled up the Berkey water filter without a second thought, already taking it for granted again.

OPRF’s Imagine Project is for the next 100 years

Congratulations to the District 200 board for approving the scope of Project 2, which is long overdue and will go very far in improving the education of OPRF High School students for generations to come This school is the crown jewel of our community and the reason many people choose to move to Oak Park and River Forest. Let’s continue to treat it that way!

There are members of the community who may still be under the impression that Project 2 is just about a swimming pool, and this is just not true We have been on tours of the school and seen firsthand the old locker rooms, cramped bathrooms, and leaking roofs in the physical education (PE) areas Most alar ming to us was an unsafe wheelchair ramp that in no way meets ADA standards. This is just not acceptable in a 21st century building.

As we mentioned previously, this school has been here for 100 years, and it will be here in another 100 years. The decision is not if Project 2 should start; the decision is when it should start. And the answer clearly is to do this as soon as possible.

It is for this reason that we very strongly support Financing Scenario #4 as outlined in the Finance Committee Presentation. This is the only scenario that will allow the project to start with the minimum amount of delay and at the lowest cost to taxpayers.

This board was elected by a democratic process to make this very type of decision. The project has been vetted by the community through the Imagine Group, so we encourage the D200 board to move forward with Project 2 under Financial Scenario #4.

We appreciate the thorough approach that the board has taken so far to address this measure and are hopeful that they will be the board responsible for finally making these muchneeded improvements to our school.

Lastly, please look at Project 2 not as something for this current group of students but instead as an improvement for students for the next 100 years.

Meg & Jordan Chalmers

Stop deferring and approve Project 2

I am a parent of a current OPRF High School student who is involved in spor ts at the school. It is embar rassing to see the condition of our facilities. We have seen other high sc hool facilities that are newer, more comprehensive, and in much better condition. I have not seen the pool in years; however, it was in need of a complete overhaul back then. I cannot imagine what it looks like now.

We live in River Forest and choose to live there for many reasons — close proximity to Chicago, high caliber schools with outstanding special education services, beautiful parks and facilities, central location with public transpor tation options, wonderful houses and neighbors, and a very healthy real estate market. For these amenities, our taxes are on the higher side It is impor tant that we maintain our facilities, particularly in the

Our children are worth our investment

The current condition of the OPRF High School building and athletic facilities is a disgrace that should have been addressed decades ago. Despite the ef for ts of District 200 to spend and plan judiciously, the constant bickering in our villages over past proposals and their funding has prevented progress

Our facilities were built piecemeal in the 1920s and 1960s and their layouts and condition cannot provide the functions or access we need for moder n classrooms and athletic space. The cur rent Phase 2 proposal is a thoughtful plan to re place these structures and is an impor tant and long overdue investment in our students and our community

As an alumna, a parent of current and future students, and as a taxpayer, I urge the funding and completion of this project asap and believe that any delay will jeopardize our home values and ne gatively impact more classes of children who are being taught in dated and decaying facilities — millions are already in the reserve and ear marked for this project. With construction costs fur ther escalating annually, what are we waiting for? Our children are wor th our investment!

The current D200 Board of Education and those over the past 10 years have shown that they are attentive and cautious financial stewards, showing restraint in both levying taxes and the development of a quality project that is not extravagant. Ea ch of these individuals were duly elected by our community with knowledge that this renovation project was both necessary and in planning stages. All ideas, proposals, changes, and funding suggestions have been shared and available to the public every ste p of the way. This is democracy in action! Any fur ther referendum is redundant and increases both the costs and the time to completion.

The elected board of education must move ahead with the lowest cost financing option and approve Funding Scenario 4 without delay.

Amy Hansmann

schools, to benefit the students and also all residents (to maintain a healthy real estate market). I am in favor of moving forward with the project (Project 2).

For years this project has been discussed and deferred. I applaud the board for coming up with various financing options and their concer n for rising taxes for the residents Now is the time to get star ted on this project and stop defer ring it. We need to move forward instead of continuing to just talk about it. The students and the residents deserve high-quality facilities in the schools. For these reasons, I am in favor of Financing Option 4. Thank you for all you do in supporting the students and residents of this great community!

Catherine Chavez Ri v er Forest

Project 2 is about so much more

Our family loves chlorine. Our oldest daughter competes on the OPRF High School swim and water polo teams, our middle daughter is on the OPRF synchronized swim team, and our seventh-grade daughter swims with the Millennium club team. Soggy swimsuits and wet towels are part of our everyday life Not surprisingly, we fully support Project 2, which includes a new pool to replace the decaying pools from 1928.

But our daughters’ penchant for the pool is a small part of why we want Project 2 to become a reality. On a recent tour of the building, we saw firsthand the outdated physical education spaces The dilapidated locker rooms are embar rassing; low ceilings, poor lighting, and safety hazards abound in the gyms; and the dismal state of the elevator and ADA-compliant ramps is simply jaw-dropping. Project 2 focuses on a new physical education (PE) wing that would address all these issues.

Also of critical impor tance, Project 2 would serve every student at OPRF because every student must have six PE credits to graduate. That’s six semesters of fitness, dance, individual spor ts, team spor ts, self-defense, and swimming. All of our children deserve to ear n these credits in updated, safe and accessible spaces

How much will Project 2 cost? This information is easily accessible on the OPRF High School website. In the “About” tab, click on “Facilities Master Plan” and you’ ll find a wealth of infor mation. According to the “Project 2 FAQ” posted there, the cost for Project 2 is $102 million. Of that, approximately $21.5 million is for the pool. That means the pool accounts for roughly 20% of the cost. Not all of it, not even most of it, but 20%. Put another way, 80% of the cost is not for the pool.

As the District 200 Board of Education now decides how to fund Project 2, let’s keep healthy debate in proportion, as we’ve tried to do here. Letters to the editor can be 350 words. Thus, we allotted 70 words (20%) to the pool in the first paragraph. But Project 2 — thankfully, and rightfully — is about so much more.

Carl & Ann Kreiter Oak Park

A tribute to Douglas J. Wyman

Doug, your friends and family will ag ree that you have spent a lifetime dancing with God, showing of f his love, allowance, and forgiveness. Thank you for such an authentically evangelical and reverent demonstration of faith.

We have shared so much. I treasure the memories and love you so much. I thank Barbara for insisting we meet and smile knowing that you two are together again. You took such good care of Barbara before she passed in 2018.

You’ve lived life your way for as long as I’ve known you. Look at you now, departing on your own ter ms — in your own timing Surprise, surprise — it’s been you and God for 95 years!

The Good Book teaches that God wants us to live exceeding and abundant lives. You knew He meant more than wealth, prestige, position, and power but more an abundance of love, joy, peace, and the rest of the fruits of the Spirit. You had such an awesome sense of people and understood how local political leadership and the policies that govern our lives play a role in our ability to keep the faith, persevere, and strengthen our community for everyone. When it came to the quality of life for your family, parish, and community, you taught us the possibilities available when we refuse to sit idly by.

Oak Park was good for you and you were good for Oak Park. It must have been all those decades in the printing industry, training and developing people beyond their known potential. Your values were on full display with your tireless work in organizations like Housing Forward and the CROP Hunger Walk, as VMA president, and all those political campaigns. You desired and advocated for leadership in Oak Park that valued people and the environment. I appreciate you for introducing me to the best that Ascension Parish has to offer, Extending the Word What a safe place for growth and reflection. I pray that your wisdom, love, and infectious laugh continue to be felt throughout the Oak Park community.

Everyone who crossed your path walked away with a nugget of wisdom. You, like my earthly father, had the patience of Job — but that never stopped you from speaking your mind and telling it like it T-I-S. We were inseparable from the start, you and I. I’ll never forget sharing my intention to start a radio show and inviting you to co-host. You agreed immediately and what a ride! We never let anyone come between us.

One thing I know for sure is that God broke the mold when he made Douglas J. Wyman.

It was hard seeing you grow weak. You were always such a pillar of strength. But again, doing it your way, you began inspiring your peers at your new senior living dwelling that your collective dream of having a pool table was totally possible and you and God went to work making that happen, just this year. I was also told that just last week you officiated your nephew’s wedding. There’s that dance y’all do.

Doug, Thank you for your friendship and thank you for your love. I promise to always hold a seat for Lazarus. My deepest love, sympathy, blessings, and prayers to the entire Wyman family. Thank you for sharing …

RIP, Doug

Doris Davenport is host of the Doris Davenport Show, broadcast at WCPT820.

Doug Wyman, 95

VMA stalwar t, radio show co-host

Douglas James Wyman, 95, of Oak Park, died peacefully on Feb. 24, 2023. Bor n in Detroit, Michigan on Jan. 9, 1928, to Frank and Kathleen Wyman, Doug and his wife, Barbara, moved their family to Oak Park and Ascension Parish 58 years ago.

In 1980 during his professional career as a printing salesman, he started his own consulting fir m, Sales Directors. Within the printing industry, he became known as a “sales guru,” conducting seminars throughout the country.

He co-wrote multiple books on how to train successful salespeople. His tag line was “There is no such thing as a cold call. Rather, war m people who need your help.”

At Ascension, he served as lector, Eucharistic minister, and was a celebrated participant in the parish theatrical productions. He was among the founders of a faith community called Extending the Word, which brought about some of the closest friendships of his life and where he assumed the role of “wise spiritual elder.”

He and Barbara lived for 38 years on what he called “the best block in Oak Park, 1000 South Scoville, with the most loving and supportive neighbors.”

As a tireless social justice advocate, he was an early volunteer with PADS, now known as Housing Forward, an organization dedicated to helping end homelessness. As a member of Ascension’s Peace and Justice Committee, his passion was to end gun violence, and he was known as a champion fundraiser for the annual Crop Walk to end hunger worldwide.

He also became well known in local political circles through his work with the Village Manager Association (VMA), from 1968 to 2018, which was tasked with choosing good candidates to run for Oak Park village gover nment.

His varied connections and relationships led him to become a radio personality as co-host of the Doris Davenport Show, also known as All Things Local. His legacy will include the ability to find fun in every situation, persistence, service, good citizenship, eter nal optimism, and the ability to encourage and inspire others. His message, lear ned from his grandfather, was, “If it is to be, it’s up to you and me.”

His strong baritone voice and great storytelling entertained many, as he held to the belief that you should “never let the facts get in the way of a good story.”

Mentor to countless locals and others, he took great joy in having deep and meaningful conversations with friends and strangers alike. His listening skills led to offering wise counsel and encouragement to people to use their strengths to follow and realize their dreams

He perfected his famous “Doug Hug” through prac-

tice His romantic devotion to his wife, Barbara, was manifested when he served as care giver to her during the many years she suffered with Alzheimer’s disease.

Lynda Schueler, director of Housing Forward, said, “I will miss his hearty laugh and kindness.”

Doug was preceded in death by Barbara, his wife for 69 years. He was the father of David (Danita), Larry (the late Laura), Mark (Sylvia Nieves), Jim (Joy), Mary (Bruce Corson), Ann (Dale Amtower), Joe (Katy), John (Allyn) and Gerald (Krista) Wyman; the grandfather of Melissa, Alisha, Amanda, Chris, Dylan, Nick, Samantha, Daniel, Kathleen, Mila, Tesla, Terry, Sophie and Paul; the great-grandfather of 15; brother of the late Desmond (Josephine), Peggy Wyman and Jane (Douglas Kirkland); and the adopted father of many cousins and friends. He also leaves his beloved fourlegged companion, Bebe.

A funeral Mass will be celebrated at Ascension Church on Saturday, March 18 at 10 a.m., with a rece ption following

In lieu of flowers, please make a generous donation to this year’s CROP Hunger Walk in honor of Doug Wyman at https://events.crophungerwalk.org/2023/ doug-wyman.

Bill McDonald, 86 Marketer, historic preser vationist

It is with great that we report of William Franklin Donald. Bill passed in September and have tur ned 87 5. Bor n in Inde Iowa, he graduated honors from the sity of Notre Dame with a B.S. in electrical gineering, ear ned from the Unive Illinois, and c PhD coursework in experimental psychology

He had an accomplished marketing career in Chicago, where he led consumer research for Amoco and served as president of the American Marketing Association’s Chicago Chapter. Throughout the 1970s and ’80s, he held the role of vice president at several different advertising agencies around the city and helped companies, including Kellogg, Kodak and General Mills, build their brands and reach new markets

He was also a passionate architecture enthusiast and a fierce defender of historic buildings. He spent his retired years guiding tours of Frank Lloyd Wright’s Home & Studio in Oak Park and The Rookery Building in Chicago’s Loop.

A dedicated father and loving husband, he is survived by his son, Michael, and his wife, Sarah. He is dearly missed and we wish him a happy birthday

Bill with his son Mike

HELP WANTED

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

PARKING ENFORCEMENT OFFICER

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

IT OPERATIONS SPECIALIST

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

E-MAIL: EMAIL@GROWINGCOMMUNITYMEDIA.ORG

HELP WANTED

INFANT TEACHER

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

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

Medical insurance offered.

Salary commensurate with experience and education.

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

ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT

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

PART-TIME ELECTRICIAN’S HELPER

Call for more info.

708-738-3848

VILLAGE OF RIVERSIDE SEASONAL EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY

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

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

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

The Village of Riverside is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

FARMERS’ MARKET MANAGER

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

River Forest Public Schools

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

• Special Education Teacher Aide - Full-time

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

•Early Childhood Special Education Teacher AidePart-time, 11:30am - 3:10pm, Monday - Friday Qualifications: a) Current Illinois Paraprofessional License, Professional Educator License or Substitute License, b) Successful teacher assistant experience is preferred in regular education or special education.

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

River Forest Public Schools

one settings. This will also encompass helping students to develop positive interpersonal relationships with peers and adults: utilizing and modeling school behavior management programs: and assist in communications between students, teachers and parents as requested. As an equal opportunity employer, it is the policy of the River Forest Public Schools, District 90, to not discriminate against any employee or any applicant for employment. District 90 values a talented and diverse workforce, and will attempt to recruit and hire minority employees.

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

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

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

Hours: 8:15am-3:15pm

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

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

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

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

MARKETPLACE

CARS WANTED

WOODWORK

Terry's Woodwork Restoration

PUBLIC NOTICES PUBLIC NOTICES

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

PUBLIC NOTICE

Notice is hereby given, pursuant to

CLASSICS WANTED

CLASSICS WANTED

Restored or Unrestored

Restored or Unrestored

Cars & Vintage Motorcycles Domestic / Import Cars:

Cars & Vintage Motorcycles

refinishing of wood and fiberglass since 1977. Includes doors, woodwork, windows, staircases and new woodwork etc. All work done by hand. NO sanders. Your unfinished project my

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

“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: Y23010237 on February 27, 2023

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

Domestic / Import Cars:

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

PUBLIC NOTICES

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

PUBLIC NOTICE

$$ Top $$ all makes, Etc.

Collector James • 630-201-8122

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

$$ Top $$ all makes, Etc.

CLASSICS WANTED

PUBLIC NOTICE Notice is hereby given, pursuant to “An Act in relation to the use of an Assumed Business Name in the conduct or transaction of Business in the State,” as amended, that a certification was registered by the undersigned with the County Clerk of Cook County. Registration Number: Y23010173 on February 9, 2023

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

NOTICE—RESTRAINING ORDERS

VILLAGE OF RIVERSIDE, ILLINOIS

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING

Collector James 630-201-8122

Restored or Unrestored

Cars & Vintage Motorcycles

Domestic / Import Cars: Mercedes, Porsche, Corvette, Ferrari’s, Jaguars, Muscle Cars, Mustang & Mopars

$$ Top $$ all makes, Etc.

Collector James 630-201-8122

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

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

PUBLIC NOTICE

SUMMONS (Family Law)

CITACIÓN (Derecho familiar)

CASE NUMBER (NÚMERO DE CASO): HF22130927

NOTICE TO RESPONDENT

(Name): AVISO AL DEMANDADO

(Nombre): ANGELO C GALLARDO

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Date (Fecha): OCT 21, 2022

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

[SEAL]

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

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

Application No.: PZ 23-0003

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

Variations:

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

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

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

PUBLIC NOTICES PUBLIC NOTICES PUBLIC NOTICES

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

Dated this 1st day of March, 2023

Jill Mateo, Chairperson Planning

and Zoning Commission

Published in RB Landmark March 1, 2023

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Brigid Weber Village Clerk

Published in RB Landmark March 1, 2023

PUBLIC NOTICE

VILLAGE OF RIVERSIDE, ILLINOIS

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING

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

Application No.: PZ 23-0005

Petitioner: Village of Riverside

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

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

il.us or delivered to the attention of Village Planner Anne Cyran at the Village Offices at 27 Riverside Road, Riverside, Illinois, prior to 4:00 p.m. on the day of the public hearings. Please specify the public hearing to which your comments pertain.

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

PUBLIC NOTICES PUBLIC NOTICES PUBLIC NOTICES

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

Dated this 1st day of March, 2023

Jill Mateo, Chairperson Planning & Zoning Commission

Published in RB Landmark March 1, 2023

PUBLIC NOTICE

VILLAGE OF RIVERSIDE, ILLINOIS NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING

Notice is hereby given to all interested persons that a public hearing before the Planning and Zoning Commission of the Village of Riverside will be held on Wednesday, March 22, 2023 at 7:00 p.m., or as soon thereafter as the business of the Planning and Zoning Commission may permit, in the Riverside Township Hall, Room 4, 27 Riverside Road, Riverside, Illinois, to consider an application for variations from Section 10-7-3 (Accessory Structures and Uses), Section 10-7-4 (Permitted Encroachments), Section 10-8-9 (Required Off Street Parking Spaces), Section 10-9-5 (Perimeter Parking Lot Landscaping), and Section 10-9-6 (Interior Parking Lot Landscaping) of the Village of Riverside Zoning Ordinance.

The variations are sought to install a 4-foot-tall black wrought iron style fence that encroaches into the Akenside Road street yard for a length of approximately 189 feet along Akenside Road; to install two, 4-foot-tall black wrought iron style fences that encroach into the Akenside Road street yard for lengths of approximately 183 feet and 173 feet perpendicular to Akenside Road; to install a 20-foot-tall PVC-coated chain link backstop fence that encroaches approximately 21 feet into the Akenside Road street yard, approximately 167 feet from the street; to build an approximately 282 square foot refuse enclosure within the Akenside Road street yard, approximately 150 feet from the street; to install a 10-foot-wide sidewalk instead of the maximum 5 feet wide sidewalk perpendicular to Akenside Road that encroaches into the street yard for a length of approximately 188 feet; to build a parking lot with 87 spaces instead of the required 114 spaces; to allow the perimeter parking lot landscape buffer from Akenside Road to be less than 10 feet wide near two parking spaces; to install 12 interior landscape medians instead of the required 17 medians for the proposed 87 parking spaces; and to install 8 interior landscape medians that are smaller than required.

Application No.: PZ 23-0002

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

Variations:

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

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

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

REAL ESTATE FOR SALE

Village of Riverside.

Dated this 1st day of March, 2023.

Jill Mateo, Chairperson Planning and Zoning Commission

Published in RB Landmark March 1, 2023

PUBLIC NOTICES

PUBLIC NOTICE OF COURT DATE FOR REQUEST FOR NAME CHANGE

STATE OF ILLINOIS, CIRCUIT COURT COOK COUNTY.

Request of Abigail LeBlancAlexander LeBlanc Case Number 20224005878

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

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

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

EQUAL HOUSING OPPORTUNITY

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

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

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

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

THE BANK OF NEW YORK MELLON FKA THE BANK OF NEW YORK, AS TRUSTEE (CWALT 2005-56); Plaintiff, vs. CELESTE MARIOTTI; MORTGAGE ELECTRONIC REGISTRATION SYSTEMS, INC.;

THE BANK OF NEW YORK, AS TRUSTEE FOR THE CERTIFICATEHOLDERS OF CWALT, INC., ALTERNATIVE LOAN TRUST

2005-56, MORTGAGE PASSTHROUGH CERTIFICATES, SERIES 2005-56; UNKNOWN OWNERS AND NON RECORD CLAIMANTS; Defendants, 18 CH 10982

NOTICE OF SALE

PUBLIC NOTICE IS HEREBY GIV-

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

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

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

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

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

ADC

INTERCOUNTY JUDICIAL SALES CORPORATION intercountyjudicialsales.com

I3213310

A St. Patrick's Day

Message from the Chamber

This Saturday is St. Patty’s in Forest Park

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Laurie Kokenes Executive Director Forest Park Chamber of Commerce

LAURIE KOKENES

Put

Sawa’s Old

Monday, March 6

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

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

Monday, March 13

Gamelan Music from Java

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

Monday March 20

Salvador Dali: The Image Disappears

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

Monday, March 27—Science

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

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

Nobody does St. Patrick’s parades like Forest Park

And they’re doing it this Saturday on Madison Street

By TOM HOLMES Contributing Reporter

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Chamber Business Members $65

Non-Member Business $120

Chamber Member Not-For-Profit $50

Non-Member Not-For-Profit $65

Political $65

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

The website History.com makes it clear

See PARADE on page B11

SHANEL ROMAIN/Staff Photographer

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

Commissioner Ryan Nero Commissioner Joe ByrnesCommissioner Jessica Voogd Commissioner Maria Maxham

Mayor Rory Hoskins

Commissioner Ryan Nero Commissioner Joe ByrnesCommissioner Jessica Voogd Commissioner Maria Maxham

*39 month lease with $3995 due at signing to qualified buyers. Plus tax, title, $347.26 doc fee and first month’s payment. 10k annual miles, take delivery by 12/23/23. Photos for illustration purposes only. For current GM lessees. Availalbe on L models only.

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

Parade

Continued from page B7

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

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

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

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

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

Alex Rogals/Staff Photographer

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

Alex Rogals/Staff Photographer

Alex Rogals/Staff Photographer

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

7600 W Roosevelt Road, Forest Park, Illinois