Wednesday Journal 032019 by Wednesday Journal

W E D N E S D A Y

March 20, 2019 Vol. 39, No. 32 ONE DOLLAR @oakpark @wednesdayjournal

JOURNAL of Oak Park and River Forest

Our endorsements Page 41-43 ■

Find your polling place Page 53

Another one bites the dust River Forest delays demo of third significant property by one week By NONA TEPPER Staff Reporter

The River Forest Historic Preservation Commission voted to deny a certificate of appropriateness for demolition of a historic home on March 14, delaying teardown by just a week amid strong neighbor outcry over the home’s condition. Commission Chairman David Franek said it was “difficult” reviewing demolition plans for a third historic home. “It does call for increased enforcement by the village so that properties -- significant or otherwise -- are not allowed to deteriorate to this condition,” he said. Last year, Sara and Mike Wienkes bought the home at 1123 Franklin Ave., a historic house built by the Buurma Brothers in 1925. They applied to demolish it in February. At the meeting, Sara Wienkes said her family looked at purchasing the home about six years ago but then determined “it did not make sense” because the home needed so much work. The house has been abandoned for more than a decade – after its former owner started See HISTORIC on page 16

TIMOTHY INKLEBARGER/Staff

POET IN THE MUSEUM: Oak Parker Eric Elshtain, the Field Museum’s first poet-in-residence, works on a poem with James and Olivia Perez, visiting the museum from Miami.

Oak Parker brings poetry to science

Field Museum launches poet-in-residence program with villager heading the effort By TIMOTHY INKLEBARGER Staff Reporter

“It smells like hair, but how can smell if there is no air? It sounds like an old lady screaming, but you can’t hear screams in space. It feels solid like a tree branch and bumpy like most rocks on the moon. It

tastes like glasses and tastes like sand.” The partial poem is one of the latest from a young patron of the Field Museum, inspired by the museum’s first poet-in-residence, Eric Elshtain. Elshtain, an Oak Park resident, spends every Wednesday morning and afternoon at the museum – he sets up shop every

week with a small desk and old-school manual typewriter – and encourages museum goers to ponder some of the deeper questions of the Chicago institution. During a recent visit to the museum, Elshtain had posted himself next to a See POET on page 18

Wednesday Journal, March 20, 2019

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Spring Open House

It’s amazing to be needed. Claudia ‘17

Healthcare needs you. This is the Open House that can open the door to an amazing career in

SPRING OPEN HOUSE

healthcare. At Resurrection University you can earn the degree you need to build the future you want. Whether you choose to pursue nursing or radiography, you’ll find the flexibility and support to succeed in the classroom and in your career. Come to our Open House and find out what ResU can do for you.

Explore bachelor degree programs in • Nursing • Radiography Saturday, March 23 Stop by anytime between 10am – 1pm

1431 N. Claremont Ave. • Chicago, IL 60622 • ResU.edu/openhouse

Wednesday Journal, March 20, 2019

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I N S I D E

R E P O R T

Not wearing out their welcome Scott Schwar has been leading tour groups to Cuba for 20 years, and his latest trip includes four dancers from Momenta, the performance troupe of Stephanie Clemens’ Academy of Movement and Music. They will be visiting the highly regarded Pro-Danza Ballet School in Havana for a week-long dance intensive. The school features plenty of talented young dancers, but enough of the proper dance equipment, so they tend to over-wear their shoes, putting them at risk of injury. To address the shortage, Momenta organized a “Dancewear Drive,” which means Director Sarah Najera and her crew will bring along a few gifts when they fly to Havana this

Val to get her own mural

The Oak Park Area Arts Council is searching for 10 artists for its mini-mural program, but this year it is making a special request — at least one of the murals will honor the late Val Camilletti, former owner of Val’s halla Records. The mural project awards $1,000 — $500 for materials and $500 upon completion — to winners to paint a mural on one of the concrete panels along the Union Pacific embankment that runs along North and South boulevards. “This particular mural will be painted

Saturday. Well more than a few: ■ 41 pairs of pointe shoes (all with ribbon & elastic) ■ 82 pairs of ballet shoes (men & women’s sizes) ■ 136 leotards ■ 52 pairs of tights ■ 24 pairs of men’s tights ■ 8 men’s dance belts ■ 51 dance accessory items (including toe pads, dance skirts, leg warmers, dance bags, and more). Scott, meanwhile, purchased a pair of Prima Ballerina Patricia Hernandez’s favorite shoes to present to her. Ambassadors of goodwill indeed.

Ken Trainor

on South Boulevard, east of Oak Park Avenue and across from the first location of her popular store,” the village notes. Artists can find applications at www. oakparkareaartscouncil.org or pick them up at the council’s office in room 212 at Oak Park Village Hall, 123 Madison St.

Tim Inklebarger

Thrive launches speaker series

Thrive Counseling Center started a new lecture series earlier this year that

ALEXA ROGALS/Staff Photographer

Erin go bragh Children dance near the outdoor stage to live Irish music on Saturday, March 16, 2019, during the St. Patrick’s Day Festival at Fitzgerald’s Nightclub on Roosevelt Road in Berwyn. More photos on page 20.

focuses on wellness. Topics, so far, have discussed the issues of creating a peaceful family and the effect of social media and technology on families. The group’s next talk, set for March 21 at 7 p.m. at the Veterans Room of the Oak Park Public Library, 834 Lake St., will discuss caring for family members with dementia. The talk will be delivered by Darby Morhardt, associate professor at the Mesulam Center for Cognitive Neurology and Alzheimer’s Disease and director of the Miller Alzheimer Family Support Program at Northwestern University’s Feinberg School of Medicine. More information about the talk and future forums is available at https://

www.thrivecc.org/events/thrive-talk-3/.

Timothy Inklebarger

Correction A story in the March 13 edition of Wednesday Journal incorrectly characterized Matt Heffner’s candidacy. Heffner is a candidate for the River Forest District 90 schools board. We regret the error.

JOIN THE CONVERSATION: SEND LETTERS TO THE EDITOR | E-MAIL: ktrainor@wjinc.com | MAIL: Wednesday Journal, 141 S. Oak Park Ave., Oak Park, IL 60302

Wednesday Journal, March 20, 2019

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Caesar and Patricia Tabet Poetry Reading: Eve Ewing

“Art Deco Chicago, Designing Modern America” Sunday, March 24, 2 p.m., Veterans Room, Main Library: Hear a panel discussion inspired by the book. The panel includes Robert Bruegmann, UIC professor emeritus and editor of “Art Deco Chicago,” along with representatives from Chicago Art Deco Society, OP-RF Museum and others. More: oppl.org/calendar 834 Lake St., Oak Park.

“The Run Don’t Count: The Life and Times of Frank Chance and His 1908 Chicago Cubs”

Friday, March 22, 6:30 p.m., Lund Auditorium, Dominican University: See the writer, who works in many genres, read poetry from Electric Arches and preview poems from her upcoming collection, 1919. University of Chicago assistant professor Ewing’s research focuses on racism, social inequality and urban policy. Free. 7900 Division St., River Forest.

The Glass Slipper Project: Prom Attire Needed

Celebrating Holi! Thursday, March 21, 4 to 5 p.m., Meeting Room, Dole Library: Learn about the Hindu Spring Festival, also known as Festival of Colors or Festival of Love. Share stories and create artwork. Ages 5+. 255 Augusta St., Oak Park.

Donate now, JAYNE Boutique: Help make prom attainable to all girls. The Glass Slipper Project is a nonprofit that collects prom attire and provides it, free of charge, to high school juniors and seniors who are unable to purchase their own. Donate gently used dresses, shoes, purses and prom-appropriate jewelry to JAYNE Boutique and get 20% off a purchase. Open Mondays through Saturdays, 10 a.m. to 8 p.m., Sundays, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. 122 N. Marion St., Oak Park.

Ibero-American Film Fest See films celebrating the diversity of Ibero-American culture. Discussions with sociology/criminology faculty and the films’ directors follow. Free. Wednesday, March 20, 2:30 p.m., Springer Suite, Dominican University: Bad Hair, centers on boy’s obsession with straightening

March 20 - 27

BIG WEEK It Takes a Village Through March 28, Art Gallery, Main Library: Fiber artist Betty Jane Lau combines discarded fabrics into two-sided quilts, showing “how fabric from many cultures of our global village are interwoven” and how “bits of color lead the eye down many paths.” 834 Lake St., Oak Park.

Wednesday, March 27, 7 to 9 p.m., Veterans Room, Main Library: Hear stories from the newly published novel by longtime Chicago Sun-Times reporter Herb Gould. 834 Lake St., Every Monday, 4 to 7:30 p.m., First st Oak Park. United Methodist Church: There is an ongoing need for blood donations. Help out at Vitalant’s Oak Park collection center. 324 N. Oak Park Ave.

Love Songs: New Beginnings

Donate Blood

Saturday, March 23, 2 p.m.; Veterans Room, Main Library: Jazz vocalist Desi Vasquez and pianist Jeremy Kahn swing and sway to tunes including music of Irving Berlin and Chicago composer Victor Young. 834 Lake St., Oak Park.

1960s TV Memories

Sunday, March 21, 2 to 3:30 p.m., River Forest Public Library: Join Steve Cooper as he shows rare video clips, tells behindthe-scenes stories, shares original theme songs and takes audience requests to play favorite TV-show tunes on his trumpet! Brought in partnership with River Forest Township. 735 Lathrop Ave.

his hair, which unleashes homophobia in his mother (Venezuela). Thursday, March 28, 5:30 p.m., Springer Suite, Dominican University: On the Rooftop shows friends who start their own business, which leads to personal maturity, but not without great difficulties (Cuba). Questions: ymarquezetxabe@dom.edu. 7900 Division St., River Forest.

Interfaith Artist Panel Wednesday, March 27, 6 p.m., Springer Suite, Dominican University: In conjunction with The Biennial Interfaith Art Exhibition (located in Lewis Hall), see a panel featuring artists whose work is in the exhibit that “according to their own faith traditions, harness art’s unique capacity to explore and express profound ideas of love and truth.” Artists from Chicago, New York and Maryland are participating. 7900 Division St., River Forest.

“The Chicago ‘L’” Sunday, March 24, 2 to 3:30 p.m., River Forest Library: The “L” has been running 24/7 for 126 years. Meet author Greg Borzo and discover how it came to be and changed the region. Brought in partnership with River Forest Township. 735 Lathrop Ave.

Wind Symphony and Kapelle Concerts Friday, March 22 at 8 p.m., and Saturday, March 23 at 7:30 p.m., Chapel, Concordia University Chicago: On Friday, see Concordia’s Wind Symphony perform Meridian by Ola Gjeilo, El Bosque Magico by Ferrer Ferran and more. On Saturday, hear Kapelle perform Sing Joyfully by William Byrd, Rest by Ralph Vaughan Williams as well as works by Johann Sebastian Bach and local composer Carl Schalk. Free. Questions: 708-209-3060. 7400 Augusta St., River Forest.

Wednesday Journal, March 20, 2019

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ART BEAT

Twirl: My Life with Stories, Writing, and Clothes By CALLIE FEYEN

Guest Author

cannot pinpoint the moment I knew I would become a writer. It seems writing has always been with me — like an imaginary friend, or a shadow. However, I can recall a moment when a shift occurred because something within me had been named. Some friends and I were on our way home from Longfellow School. Walking along Jackson toward the stoplight, the crossing guard was ready to take us across Ridgeland. I never spoke to her save to say “Hello” occasionally, but I thought of her as strong, and sturdy. She seemed like the sort of person who knew everything about everyone. She knew, not from being nosy, but from observation — from standing on that corner of Ridgeland and Jackson year after year, and watching us grow from 5-year-olds, waddling away from toddlerhood, to 12-yearolds running, many times tripping, toward teenage-dom. It was on this corner while we were waiting for the light to turn green, and for the crossing guard rd to take her first steps so we could take ours, that I was in the middle of telling a story y to my friends. It was a truee story, one with suspensee and intrigue. At least I wass doing my best to make itt that way. We crossed, I finished my story, and my friend Sarah nudged me in the side and said, “I swear, Callie, that story gets better every time you tell it.” She was being sarcastic. She was understandably exasperated from hearing the story probably hundreds of times. But she was right. My story did get better the more I told it. Stories have always been my way of making sense of my life and the world, of creating some order from what often feels like chaos. Put me in any social studies classroom at Longfellow, at Percy Julian, at Oak Park and River Forest High School, and ask me to locate North, South, East and West, and I am unable to do it. But stand me on the East Avenue overpass and I know west is where Ferrara Pan Candy is, where my friends and I would sometimes ride our bikes with quarters in our pockets for brown bags of jelly beans so fresh their coating seeped into the paper. North is the sledding hill at Ridgeland; we believed one day we’d go fast enough to fly

✓ ✓ Callie Feyen now lives in Ann Arbor, Michigan with her family. For more on her new book and to purchase: calliefeyen.com/book.

right over Lake Street. East was Sears Tower and Lake Shore Drive where during fall and spring when Lake Michigan was either fighting winter’s inevitable frost or waking up from it, the waves were furious. We’d w drive alongside the lake, pillowed between the skyscrapl ers e and water. South was Rehm Pool where I spent most of my w childhood summers, and ch Rehm Park, where I spent one R morning in April of my senior m year ye sitting on a park bench reading Betty Smith’s Joy in re the Morning. The plan was not to read. I’d been arguing with my parents over my college plans. They said I was going; I pla said I was not. I’d grabbed the book boo off their bookshelves so I would wou have something to aid me in i my stubbornness and keep me on the park bench. It was Annie McGairy I saw myself in, or who I wanted to see myself in — a girl who loved words, loved stories — and it was Annie McGairy who got me off that bench, and toward home, and then on to the rest of my life. I wouldn’t proclaim writing stories are my way of finding myself; rather, that they are my way of making myself at home. My second book, Twirl: My Life with Stories, Writing, and Clothes is about the many places I found myself at home. It is a book about making sense of my life through story, something I believe harkens back to what my friend Sarah said some 30 years ago: Don’t be afraid to look again, to tell again. It is in returning to what mystifies us, and creating from it, that we find ourselves at home.

✓

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Wednesday Journal, March 20, 2019

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D97 shuffles administrators By MICHAEL ROMAIN Staff Reporter

One District 97 administrator was recently promoted while a second is leaving for another district, according to D97 officials. During a regular meeting on March 12, the D97 school board approved the appointment of Eboney Lofton as the district’s new chief academic and accountability officer, effective July 1. Meanwhile, the district’s assistant superintendent of finance and operations, Paul Starck-King, announced he is resigning to take a position in another school district. Lofton is currently the district’s senior director of special education. Once she starts her new position, she will replace Amy Warke, who announced in December that she was leaving D97 to become superintendent of LaGrange Highlands School District 106. In a statement, D97 Supt. Carol Kelley lauded Lofton’s promotion, explaining that she “has demonstrated incredible leadership during her time here, especially in conjunction with our efforts to expand inclusive instructional practices, such as co-teaching, promote the use of data-informed decisionmaking and incorporate student voice into the IEP process.” Kelley said Lofton’s position will come

D97, D200 unions announce endorsements

Kearney, Kim, Moore and Spurlock for D97; Arkin, Guarino, Harris for D200 By MICHAEL ROMAIN Staff Reporter

The Oak Park Teachers Association, the union representing teachers in Oak Park Elementary Schools District 97, recently announced the four candidates they’re endorsing for D97 school board. Officials with the OPTA wrote in a statement that, after conducting interviews with

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

with a few changes. Starting in the fall, she will oversee and manage the district’s teaching and learning and special education departments. In addition, she will not supervise principals. That function has moved to the superintendent’s office. The district is currently searching for someone to replace Lofton as senior director of special education. The cost of promoting her and hiring her successor, Kelley said, will be cost neutral. Starck-King announced earlier this month that he plans on resigning in order to become assistant superintendent of finance and operations/chief school business officer at Proviso Township High Schools District 209. His last day with D97 will be April 12. His resignation comes a year after he was hired to replace Alicia Evans in the position. Evans resigned in December 2017 and she was hired in March 2016 to replace Therese O’Neill, who retired in 2016 after serving eight years in the position. According to a statement released March 13, D97 officials said they’ll work with the Illinois Association of School Business Officials to fill the position on an interim basis while simultaneously working to find a permanent replacement who would start on July 1. CONTACT: michael@oakpark.com

each candidate and learning about their “stances on a variety of topics that concern the students and staff of the district as well as the community as a whole,” they are endorsing Gavin Kearney, Jung Kim, Cheree Moore and Holly Spurlock. The Oak Park and River Forest High School Faculty Senate, the union that represents teachers in District 200, announced that they’re endorsing Frederick D. Arkin, Victor Guarino and Gina Harris. In its statement, the OPTA announced that it supports the Faculty Senate’s endorsements. CONTACT: michael@oakpark.com

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Wednesday Journal is published weekly by Wednesday Journal, Inc. POSTMASTER: Please send address changes to Wednesday Journal, 141 S. Oak Park Ave., Oak Park, IL 60302-2901. Periodical rate postage paid at Oak Park, Illinois (USPS No. 0010-138). In-county subscription rate is $35 per year, $60 for two years, $87 for three years. Annual out-of-county rate is $43. © 2019 Wednesday Journal, Inc.

Wednesday Journal, March 20, 2019

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Village sells Dole Library to park district

Stipulation added that building must be maintained as a library By TIMOTHY INKLEBARGER Staff Reporter

The village of Oak Park unanimously approved a proposal to sell the Dole branch of Oak Park Public Library to the Park District of Oak Park for one dollar. The village currently owns the building at 255 Augusta St. and uses the space partly to store nearly 1,000 boxes of municipal records, about 400 of which are slated for destruction and another 530 eligible for digitization. The village notes in its background summary that the park district was established in 1912, but the village established its own Recreation Department in 1926. Both entities established parks and acquired land until the late 1970s or early 1980s, when the village dissolved its department. Oak Park transferred its remaining parks to the park district in 2005, except for a few properties, including the Barrie Center, Stevenson Park and the Dole Center. The library building was gifted to the village in 1939 by Andrew and Mary Dole but

PHOTOGRAPHER/Title

A BARGAIN: The park district recently bought the Dole branch from the village of Oak Park for $1. with the stipulation that the building be used “for a public library, public recreation center, or … for such other public purpose” deemed to be in the public interest. The building is used in part by the local train model club known as the Oak Park Society of Model Engineers as well as by the

village, the library and the park district. The village is expected to save about $25,000 a year by getting the building off its books. Last year, $35,000 was spent on repairs to the building. Trustees discussed the issue at the March 18 meeting with Park District of Oak Park

Board President Vic Guarino, but they made a last-minute change to the agreement, adding a clause that says the park district must continue to maintain the building as a public library. Village Manager Cara Pavlicek said the process of moving records out of the library and digitizing those not slated for destruction is expected to cost about $25,000 to $75,000. Trustee Dan Moroney said the park district should help pay for the removal and digitization of the village’s records, adding that it was an issue of intergovernmental cooperation. While the board did not act on Moroney’s idea, it did direct the village attorney to include language that would require the park district to maintain the building as a library, which runs for the entirety of the lease agreement, ending in 2098. Guarino said he agrees in principle with the stipulation, noting that the park district would be “run out of town” if it tried to close the library, but said he must first get approval from his board for the change to the transfer language. He added that the park district will create a senior center in the basement as part of the change and immediately begin work — painting and other rehab — to improve the building. tim@oakpark.com

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Thomas Gary ey aside for potential incidents like flooding or intense winters that are being driven by climate change. “These are things that are so unsexy and don’t get attention and headlines until they do get headlines,” he said. “We need to be planning that out and thinking that out deliberatively and with intention.” tim@oakpark.com

The Truth About Teen Drivers and Insurance Discounts for Teen Drivers

Do Teenage Drivers Increase Premiums?

What If I Don’t Tell My Insurance Company About My Teen Driver?

Wednesday Journal, March 20, 2019

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D97 candidate wants to ease district’s equity issues Grant says engineering psychology experience translates to school board

By MICHAEL ROMAIN Staff Reporter

A user-experience designer and mother of three said she’s running for the District 97 Board of Education so she can bring her professional experience, optimizing products and services to satisfy customers, to bear on advancing equity for all students in the district. During a recent interview, Barika Grant said she would place particular emphasis on one aspect of equity in the district: Access to prekindergarten. “I’m a huge proponent of universal Pre-K,” she said. “I think it’s really great, but I don’t think everyone who needs services gets them, and it’s strictly due to funding and budgeting. So I want to look at how we can get more funding and be able to support more students who need the program.” Grant, who has two young children in D97 schools, along with a 6-month-old, said the district nevertheless needs to rein in spending. “That we keep passing more and more money is also a concern of mine, and I want to keep the budget in line with what taxpayers want to see,” she said. “The referendum has passed. I’d hope and expect

that, in the next four years if I’m serving, in communication.” Going forward, she said, we don’t pass another referendum. We don’t the district should “get everyone involved” in need to keep going back to taxpayers asking the process of communicating such important for more money.” policy decisions. Grant, who moved to Oak Park from the East She’s also concerned about the discipline Coast nearly four years ago, said she would disparity in D97, with black students getting also work to enhance the district’s disciplined at much higher rates communication capabilities, than white students. particularly when relating details “These students are losing about the recent racial equity teaching time; they’re in the policy, which the board passed principal’s office instead of unanimously last week. in class and they’re losing In addition to the draft policy, knowledge. We talk about the D97 officials also released a opportunity gap. A lot of this memo detailing additional hires, is interrelated. You’re moving programs and other measures these kids out of the classroom, that might need to be made in they’re getting less time, and they’re socially isolated. People order to successfully implement just look at a child who got in the policy. The memo, many trouble without thinking about parent leaders said, seemed BARIKA GRANT the problem holistically.” to put the cart before the Candidate The University of Illinois horse, arguing that issues of Urbana-Champaign graduate implementation should have said she would leverage her been addressed only after an extensive needs assessment and a thorough professional expertise in engineering process of gathering stakeholder feedback psychology (making websites and software programs more user-friendly) toward were implemented. Grant, who is a member of the Longfellow helping bring about more equitable DiversityCommittee,saidshewas“disappointed outcomes within the district. “What I do in my professional life with the memo” and felt it reflected a “failure

“These students are losing teaching time; they’re in the principal’s office instead of in class.”

Barika Grant translates to the board because I interview multiple constituencies and stakeholders and have to craft a solution that supports a lot of different viewpoints,” she said. CONTACT: michael@oakpark.com

D200 candidate argues for harmonizing equity, expenses Massie says D200 can be financially prudent and aggressive about equity

By MICHAEL ROMAIN Staff Reporter

A candidate for the District 200 Board of Education says she can help Oak Park and River Forest High School balance equity with expenditures. Amanda Massie, a longtime Oak Park resident, said that while the current school board has made some progress on both fronts, there’s still work to be done. “I have to give D200 some credit,” Massie said, citing the board’s emphasis within the last year on spending discipline and balanced budgets. But some old practices die hard, she said. “I have an issue with the fact that as soon as we’re thinking of doing something, we have to hire out,” Massie said, referencing the practice of hiring outside consultants and contractors to help administer policies and programs. She commended the district on creating a new equity director position ahead of the board’s final vote on a racial equity policy, which could be weeks away. If she’s elected, she said, she’ll push for a forensic audit of the district’s expenses.

“We need to prioritize everything we’re already know how to swim,” she said, adding doing now because anything we spend that students can instead be taking other comes on the back of the taxpayer,” she said. classes, such as vocational training, “that The mother of adult African-American can actually help them after high school.” sons (they attended school in And she’ll push for more California, where Massie and transparency at the board table. her husband had moved years “I want all the meetings ago before returning to Oak videotaped and livestreamed,” Park), she also argued that the she said. “People need to district should speed up its see what’s going on at these progress on the equity front meetings when they can’t attend. — but in a way that involves The fact that the district hasn’t teachers. spent money on this [when “We have to have buy-in they’ve found other, arguably from the teachers,” she said. less critical, areas to spend it “Teachers aren’t involved in in] is a problem. It can’t be that enough discussions. If we don’t expensive.” AMANDA MASSIE have their buy-in, it doesn’t Massie also said she would Candidate matter how good the racial push to eliminate tracking at equity policy is; it won’t work.” OPRF, the practice of separating Massie said the district students into separate curricular should also take a close look at paths based on academic ability. its curriculum, particularly the district’s “It’s not a good way to promote kids and swimming requirement. tell them they can do anything they want to “We need to look at the mandated do,” she said. “It’s obvious that when you swimming curriculum of freshmen and look at tracking racially, it’s so one-sided sophomores taking swimming even if they that it just doesn’t make any sense. I don’t

“People need to see what’s going on at these meetings when they can’t attend.”

Amanda Massie know what we’d do to change that except get rid of the labels, not come up with new ones because that doesn’t help either.” CONTACT: michael@oakpark.com

Wednesday Journal, March 20, 2019

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HISTORIC

Certificate of Appropriateners from page 1 but did not finish demolition of the interior -- which Wienkes said has led to a cracked foundation, slanted floors, rotten wood interior and “amassed over $30,000 in fines from the village code violations.” They plan to tear down the property and build a smaller home on its lot. “Sometimes the best solution is not to cling to the past but to embrace a better future,” Wienkes said. “We would like to build a new home that is respectful of the character of this beautiful community, is safe from a health perspective, is functional for our family, is energy efficient and preserves some of the grand feel for the property while also providing more breathing room for ourselves and our neighbors.” Resident Joe Shaker Sr., who lives nearby, called the home an “eyesore.” He said the property presents a safety risk for his son and grandchildren who live next door, and that he has complained to the village for years about the property’s deteriorating lawn, sidewalks, and more. “It’s taken down our property value with what it looks like,” Shaker Sr. said at the meeting. “I applaud you, I thank you. I’ll get my sledge hammer; I’ll be the first one knocking it down with you.”

ALEXA ROGALS/Staff Photographer

DEMO: Home represents third historic property to be torn down. Jan Saeger, a resident and member of the Historical Society of Oak Park and River Forest, noted that most of the homeowners’ complaints were about its interior, which the preservation commission cannot make judgment calls on. The commission focuses solely on preservation of the property’s exterior, according to the village attorney. If the home is demolished, Saeger called for salvaging the historic property’s features and making sure the new home is sized appropriately to the block. “No matter how you look at it, it’s a sad story,” she said. Officials from Oakley Home Builders, which will construct the new home on the lot, said they would do whatever possible

to avoid contributing materials to landfills, recycling and salvaging as many parts as possible. Resident John Grant questioned what the village’s plan was for this building if the family hadn’t bought it, saying the commission should start a nonprofit, foundation or village incentive program to save historic homes. “Nobody’s doing anything. The thing is sitting there, there’s neighbors everywhere, there’s rats, raccoons, glass, there’s squatters probably. Nobody’s paying taxes on it. I don’t know how that’s good for the village tax base,” Grant said. “So nothing’s been happening. So somebody comes along and wants do something, and all of a sudden the

preservation commission wants to create their vision and make their vision happen, but they want somebody else to do it.” Commission member Brian Prestes said Grant’s assessment of how the commission functions was “not accurate,” saying it didn’t have the authority to set up a 501c3 or tap the village tax base to save homes. “We don’t sit here with some grand vision and say, ‘Hey let’s get together and try to make other people take their private funds and [build] it,’” Prestes said at the meeting. Commission member Carla GrahamWhite added that she felt “conflicted” about the house since it’s been on and off the market so many times. “I remember walking past it about 10 years ago. It was already being marketed as a teardown, build your own mansion, with a very big ‘For Sale’ sign,” she said. Commissioner David Raino-Ogden said he believes the property’s exterior could be preserved. “I see a wonderful shell waiting for a family to bring some life into it, and bring her back into her glory,” he said. Raino-Ogden cast the only dissenting vote in a 5-1 agreement to delay demolition of the property by one week. Commissioner Al Popowits was absent. This is the third historic home in the village to be demolished. In September 2015, a developer tore down the nearly 100-year-old Mars Mansion. In May 2018, a house at 747 William St. was razed. CONTACT: ntepper@wjinc.com

MacNeal Hospital

Comprehensive digestive care close to home

listen to your gut

At MacNeal Hospital in Berwyn, our digestive health team provides patients with superior care thanks to compassionate gastroenterologists and leading-edge technology available right in the neighborhood. Listen to your gut this March during Colon Cancer Awareness Month and visit macnealhospital.org to book an appointment and see how we’re always giving you more reasons to choose MacNeal. To find a doctor visit macnealhospital.org or call 877-834-7264.

Wednesday Journal, March 20, 2019

OAKPARK.COM | RIVERFOREST.COM

Friends,

Friends, Friends, Asyour your trustee, I will bring experience As trustee, I will bring experience fromfrom Friends, As your trustee, I will bring experience thefederal, federal, state, and local levels offrom the state, and local levels of from As your trustee, I will bring experience the federal, state, and local levels of government promote greater government to to promote greater inclusion, the federal, state, and local levels of inclusion, government to promote greater inclusion, innovation, smart investment in our innovation, and smart investment in our government to and promote greater inclusion, innovation, and smart investment in our infrastructure. innovation, and smart investment in our infrastructure. infrastructure. infrastructure. nd. Punch 1 to vote values on April Punch 1 to vote ourour values on April 2nd. nd.2 nd. Punch 1 to vote our values on April 2 Punch 1 to vote our values on April 2

Learn at:at: Learnmore more Learn more at: Learn more at: Facebook.com/GaryWorksinProgress Facebook.com/GaryWorksinProgress Facebook.com/GaryWorksinProgress Facebook.com/GaryWorksinProgress

What Others Gary What OthersSay SayAbout About Thomas Thomas Gary What Others Say About Thomas Gary What Others Say About Thomas Gary Friends, As your trustee, I will bring experience from the federal, state, and local levels of government to promote greater inclusion, innovation, and smart investment in our infrastructure.

PUNCH 111on your ballot PUNCH on your ballot PUNCH on your ballot PUNCH 1 on your ballot

“I am confident that Thomas Gary will serve our “I am confident that Thomas Gary willwillserve our “I am confident that Thomas Gary serve our “Icommunity am confident that Thomas Gary will serve community as Trustee. Thomas has aour strong well aswell Trustee. Thomas has a astrong community well as Trustee. Thomas has strong understanding of government and he is committed community well as Trustee. Thomas has a strong to toPunch 1 to vote our values on April 2nd. understanding of of government and hehe is iscommitted understanding government and committed to the values we hold dear inand Oakhe Park diversity, inclusion, understanding of government is -committed to thethe values we hold dear in Oak Park diversity, inclusion, THOMAS GARY is our strong advocate and equity. As Idear have in interacted him in theinclusion, values we hold Oak Parkwith - diversity, LearnT more at: HOMAS GGARY strong advocate the values we hold dear in Oak Park diversity, inclusion, and equity. AsAs I have with him T HOMAS ARYisisour our strong advocate for: community, I'veinteracted found him to be thoughtful and and equity. I have interacted with himin inthe the Facebook.com/GaryWorksinProgress THOMAS GARY is our strong advocate and equity. As I have interacted with him in the for: community, I've found him to be thoughtful and pragmatic, thethoughtful need to work for: • Inclusion community, I've understanding found him to be andwithin our for:• Inclusion community, I've found him to beneed thoughtful and pragmatic, understanding the within means to accomplish our ideals.” pragmatic, understanding the needtotowork work withinour our •• Innovation Inclusion Breymaier, former Executive Director, Oakour Park pragmatic, understanding the need to work within means to--Rob accomplish our ideals.” • Inclusion means to accomplish our ideals.”

What Others Say About Thomas Gary •• Innovation Infrastructure

Regional Housing Board Member, District --RobtoBreymaier, former Executive Director,OP Oak Park 97 means accomplish ourOffice; ideals.”

--Rob Breymaier, former Executive Director, Oak Park Regional Housing Office; Board Member, OPOP District 97 --Rob Breymaier, former Executive Oak Park “I am confident that Thomas GaryDirector, will serve our Regional Housing Office; Board Member, District 97

• Innovation Innovation • ••Infrastructure Infrastructure

on your ballot community well as Trustee. Thomas has a strong Regional Housing Office; ofBoard Member, OP District 97PUNCH •1 Infrastructure government andand he isacommitted to “…Heunderstanding will bring fiscal discipline relentlessly the values good-government we hold dear in Oak Park - diversity, progressive, agenda toinclusion, the Board

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--Eric Davis, Trustee, Oak Park Township

--Eric Davis, Trustee, Oak Park “…He will bring fiscal discipline and a relentlessly group’s role among ourTownship local leaders. “Iimportant look forward to working directly with Thomas to

progressive, good-government agenda to the Board --Eric Davis, Oak Park addressTrustee, flooding issues in OakTownship Park table. I look forward working with him and as weincrease seek resiliency as we experience more intense rainstorms even greater synergies and mutual respect for each “I look forward toto working directly with Thomas to “I look working directly with group’s important role among our localThomas leaders. to in forward our region. address flooding issues in in Oak Park --Eric Davis, Trustee, Oak Parkand Township address flooding issues Oak Park andincrease increase --Debra Shore, Commissioner, Metropolitan Water “Iresiliency look forward to working directly with Thomas to as we experience more intense rainstorms resiliency as we experience more intense rainstorms Reclamation District address flooding issues Oak Park increase in in ourour region. region. “I look forward in to working directlyand with Thomas to

address flooding issues in Oak Park and increase resiliency as we experience more intense rainstorms --Debra Shore, Commissioner, Metropolitan Water --Debra Shore, Commissioner, Metropolitan Water resiliency as we experience more intense rainstorms District in Reclamation our region. Reclamation District “[Thomas Gary has] demonstrated a strong in our region. --Debra Shore, --Debra Shore, Commissioner, Water understanding andCommissioner, respectMetropolitan forMetropolitan the issuesWater that are Reclamation District important to working families and labor unions.” Reclamation District --Chicago Federation of Laboraendorsement “[Thomas Gary has] demonstrated “[Thomas Gary has] demonstrated astrong strong “[Thomas Gary has] demonstrated a strong understanding and respect forforthe issues that understanding and respect the issues thatare are understanding and respect for the issues that are important to important working families and labor unions.” important to working families and labor unions.” to working families and unions.” “[Thomas Gary has] demonstrated alabor strong

--Chicago Federation ofof Labor endorsement Paid --Chicago Federation Labor endorsement understanding and respect for the issues thatfor areby important to working families and labor unions.” --Chicago Federation of Labor endorsement

“Thomas knows the value of cooperation between governmental partners - he has done that. He believes in using Oak Park's “Thomas knows the ofofcooperation “Thomas knows thevalue value cooperation rich resources of citizen boards, between partners betweengovernmental governmental partners- -he hehas has commissions, and committees. “Thomas knows the value of cooperation

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done that.partners He believes using Oak Park's --Roberta Fruth, retired nursing between governmental - he has in between partners - he has rich resources done that. He believes ingovernmental usingof Oak Park's boards, rich resources ofcitizen citizen boards, executive rich resources of citizen done that.boards, He believes in using Oak Park's commissions, and committees. commissions, and committees. commissions, and committees.

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--Roberta Fruth, retired nursing Paid for by Friends of Thomas executive Gary --Chicago Federation of Labor endorsement Paid Paidfor forbybyFriends FriendsofofThomas ThomasGary Gary

Wednesday Journal, March 20, 2019

OAKPARK.COM | RIVERFOREST.COM

C R I M E

Business on Harlem Avenue robbed

Oak Park police are searching for a man they say robbed a business, suggesting that he was armed, in the 400 block of North Harlem Avenue at about 3:45 p.m. on March 10. Police report that the man entered For Eyes, 409 N. Harlem Ave., and was seen concealing a pair of Gucci eyeglasses in his pocket. Employees confronted the man who put his hand in his pocket and implied he had a weapon. He also made verbal threats against the employees, according to a police summary report. He fled on foot toward North Boulevard. The estimated loss is $400. The man was described as black, between the ages of 30 and 40, wearing a red headband, red jacket, black sweatpants with white stripes on the bottom, red gym shoes and carrying a large, white Macy’s bag.

You know you have a parking problem when ... Someone stole an Oak Park resident’s park-

ing pass from the victim’s green 2003 Hyundai Accent while the vehicle was parked in the 100 block of South Maple Avenue. The incident took place at 4:34 p.m. on March 17. The estimated loss is $130.

Armed robbery ■A

Chicago resident was robbed at gunpoint in 6000 block of North Avenue at about 9:45 p.m. on March 16. A man approached the victim and displayed a small black handgun and demanded money. The victim handed over a deposit bag and the offender fled on foot from North Avenue onto North McVicker Avenue. The estimated loss is $3,800. ■ Kadrion Gipson, 21, of the 1600 block of South Harlem, Berwyn, was arrested for an armed robbery that took place in the 500 block of North Harvey on March 10 at 9:05 p.m. He was taken into custody in Chicago in the 5900 block of West Walton.

Theft

■ A silver 2000 Honda Civic was stolen by unknown means from the 500 block of Scoville Avenue (the report did not specify whether north or south), sometime between 11 a.m. and 3:10 p.m. on March 15. The estimated loss is $5,000. ■ A black Lincoln Navigator Extended Reserve valued at $91,000 that was left running and unattended was stolen from the 700 block of Wisconsin Avenue at 8:35 p.m. on March 15. It was recovered by Chicago police in the 4000 block of West Adams Street at 7:51 p.m. No apprehensions were made. ■ Someone used a key to steal a gray 2013 Toyota Camry XLE from the 1000 block of South Humphrey Avenue, sometime between 11 p.m. on March 15 and 11:58 a.m. on March 16. The estimated loss is $19,000. The police summary report listed the incident as a burglary. ■ Someone possibly used a key to steal a silver 2019 Kia Forte from the 400 block of

POET

Field Museum from page 1 stairwell near a collection of various space rocks, hence the poem. Elshtain was challenging passersby to consider the question: “What does a space rock taste like?” He said he wants to bridge the gap between poetry and science and use the literary form to “formulate questions and begin to come up with answers and begin to describe the feelings they have about objects and specimens that they see in the museum.” “I also spend my time writing my own poems about objects that I surround myself with,” he told Wednesday Journal. “Every Wednesday I put myself in different parts of the museum.” Angelica Lasala, public relations coordinator for the museum, said the new poet-inresidence program is part of the museum’s mission to “inspire journeys of discovery so that we can find solutions to a brighter future rich in nature and culture.” “Whether that means bringing a full, touchable skeletal cast of the largest dinosaur ever discovered to introducing a poetin-residence here to really liven the visitor experience and help folks find connections between science and art, we want to be at the forefront of people’s experience with the natural world,” Lasala said. Poetry is a full-time business for Elshtain, who holds a master’s degree in fine arts from Columbia University and a Ph.D. in poetry from the University of Chicago. In addition to the poet-in-residence program, he works as a writer-in-residence at hospitals

Photo provided by The Field Museum

POET IN THE MUSEUM: Oak Parker Eric Elshtain, the Field Museum’s first poet-in-residence, discusses poetry with young visitors to the museum. | Photo provided by the Field Museum around the Chicago area and hosts poetry father and his son who were contemplating workshops. one of the Field Museum’s most popular exAt the Field Museum, Elshtain said he hibits – Sue, the Tyrannosaurus rex that’s tries to “use the techniques and roughly 67 million years old. tools of poetry to get at some Elshtain said the father and son descriptions of these objects were thinking about Sue’s heart in much the same way that the when they came across his poetry labels tell us certain factual asstation. ■ Online video pects about these objects.” “The father and the boy had a VISIT OAKPARK.COM “Poetry can be, hopefully, conversation about Sue’s heart and that led to the father and that space in which people can describe questions or ideas or feelings for boy to work together on a haiku ruminatwhich they don’t have any other outlet or ing on the notion of Sue’s heart – something they may not know they have an outlet,” that they couldn’t see but that the exhibit drew out of them,” Elshtain said. “It wasn’t Elshtain said. Elshtain said he recently encountered a until they came to my little desk and saw me

WEB EXTRA

Madison Street, sometime between 3 p.m. on March 15 and 9 a.m. on March 16. The estimated loss is $25,000. The vehicle was recovered by Chicago police at 1:23 a.m. on March 18 in the 2600 block of North Lincoln Avenue, Chicago. No apprehensions were made.

Burglary ■ A residence was burglarized in the 1000 block of South Humphrey, sometime between 7 a.m. and 5:15 p.m. on March 14. The offender pried open the rear door, entered the home and stole jewelry, a PlayStation 4 and a spare key fob to the victim’s 2013 Toyota Camry. The estimated loss is $2,200. ■ A residence was burglarized in the 300 block of North Humphrey at 1:51 a.m. on March 15. The offender entered through an unlocked door, took two sets of car keys and used one to take a black Ford Explorer. The vehicle was recovered by Chicago police in the 5600 block of South Homan Avenue.

typing away that they felt they had an outlet.” The station was good at drawing a crowd during a recent visit to the museum, and Elshtain is no wallflower. “Hey, that’s a typewriter,” he said to families with young children – many of whom have never seen a manual typewriter – passing by his station. One family visiting from Michigan decided to come to the museum specifically because they read about the poetry program. Eric Sloterbeek, 17, of Allendale, Michigan, who likes to write poetry, said her dad surprised her with Elshtain’s poetry station. She says she mainly writes couplets and poems with simple rhyme schemes. “I love poems,” Sloterbeek said, adding that writing poems provides an emotional outlet. “My dad’s an English major, so it runs in the genes.” Another man, Chris Fleming, from Tucson, Arizona, said he also decided to check out the museum after reading about Elshtain. Fleming said he wanted to hear Elshtain’s thoughts about contemporary poetry and what he considers a trend away from writing about universal truths and focusing more on the individual. “I learned a lot by talking to him,” Fleming said. The program just recently launched, so Elshtain will be available to share and discuss poetry for the foreseeable future. He can be found at the Field Museum with his 1943 Smith-Corona Sterling typewriter every Wednesday between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. “What poetry has to do with science is they both begin with observation,” Elshtain said. tim@oakpark.com

OAKPARK.COM | RIVERFOREST.COM

Wednesday Journal, March 20, 2019

Dear Voter, My name is Arti Walker-Peddakotla and I’m running for Oak Park Village Trustee. I moved to Oak Park 10 years ago as a low income single mother making just $23,000 a year. Since then, my family has grown, we’ve moved multiple times within Oak Park, and my kids have started school. During this journey, we’ve seen the best, but also the worst of our community. I’ve been called a terrorist while walking down the street with my family. I’ve fought for my children to have equal access to a good education in our schools. And I’ve seen the village board become more development-friendly, try and strip away vital services to our community, and stop fighting for the progressive values we care about. In the 1970s, Oak Park citizens worked hard to ensure racial integration in our village. The diversity that we have in our community is not by accident. It is because of the work of civil rights activists and progressive-minded community leaders that fought to ensure that Black families weren’t pushed out of the village. We need to reawaken that fight today. We need to reclaim our progressive values and fight for diversity, inclusion and equity. That’s why I’ve committed to running on a racial equity platform - and am the only candidate in this race doing so. Centering the fight for justice on racial equity means that all Oak Parkers will benefit as we fight for equal access to quality education, affordable housing, and equitable taxation. Oak Park needs a community organizer, and a political activist who will fight for our progressive values on the village board. That’s why I need you to vote for me, Arti WalkerPeddakotla, for Village Trustee, on April 2nd. Let’s work together to fight for our shared progressive values and reclaim Oak Park. Together, we can make Oak Park a leader in the fight for racial equity and give everyone an equal chance at success. In Solidarity,

Wednesday Journal, March 20, 2019

OAKPARK.COM | RIVERFOREST.COM

S T.

PAT R I C K ’ S

D AY

Slainté

F I T Z G E R A L D ’ S

ALEXA ROGALS/Staff Photographer

Irish and Irish wannabes revel in the orange and green on March 16, St. Patrick’s Day Eve, at FitzGerald’s in Berwyn.

Friday, April 5, 2019 6:00p.m. Nineteenth Century Club

•

178 Forest Ave.

•

Oak Park, IL 60301

Please join us for small plates and cocktails in a club-like setting as we celebrate recovery through music, comedy and inspiration.

Tickets are $80/person. Tickets can be purchased at

https://bidpal.net/nami

CONTINENTAL MOTORS GROUP

THE AUTOBARN VOLVO CARS OAK PARK

The Mayer School Irish Dancers perform during the St. Patrick’s Day Festival. (Below) The wearin’ and the wavin’ of the green.

Wednesday Journal, March 20, 2019

OAKPARK.COM | RIVERFOREST.COM

SATURDAY, MARCH 23

7pm - Midnight at The Gallery at Latin Rhythms, 210 N. Racine, Chicago

Proceeds will create a

Peace Room

OPEN BAR • FOOD SILENT AUCTION • RAFFLES

in the Austin Community Hub!

To strengthen ACT’s restorative justice practices and connect residents to services.

SUPPORTING SPONSORS:

DANCE LESSONS • DJ A LIVE PERFORMANCE Online Ticket: $50

Door Price: $60

AustinComingTogether.org/SpringSocial COMMUNITY SPONSORS:

Wednesday Journal, March 20, 2019

OAKPARK.COM | RIVERFOREST.COM

Thank You!

To all the amazing Camps that attended the..

Education, Enrichment and

Camp Fair

Learn more at the links below!

WEST COOK YMCA campbenfrankel.org

alcuin.org

codeplaylearn.com

legacysportscamp.com

pilgrimschool.net

steveandkatescamp.com/ oak-park-river-forest

collab4kids.org

WEST COOK YMCA

rfcc.info

psmnow.com

ascensionoakpark.com/school

campkupugani.com

interlochen.org

anokijig.com

westcookymca.org

chicagoedgesc.com

school-stlukeparish.org

schoolofrock.com/oakpark

pdop.org

yemba-inc.org

campfireriverbend.org

thecountryexperience.com

the little

bits wo r ks h o p

thechildrensschool.info

franklloydwright.org/camp

skillstutoring.net

westloopsoccerclub.com

stillwaterspreschoolco-op.weebly.com

bennettday.org

chicagoacademia.com

thelittlebitsworkshop.com

compasspointlearning.org

chicagoplays.com/theatre/ the-theatre-school-at-depaul-university

secularjewish.org

mathnasium.com/oakparkriverforest

Special Advertising Section

E D U C AT I O N & E N R I C H M E N T G U I D E

March 20, 2019

Spring 2019

Education Enrichment

and

guide

E D U C AT I O N & E N R I C H M E N T G U I D E

March 20, 2019

Special Advertising Section

Learning from and with each other

Celebrating Over 58 Years of Montessori Excellence

ounded in 1961, Alcuin Montessori School offers a cross-curricular learning environment balancing academic and emotional intelligence. We partner with parents and provide students the tools to become highly-skilled independent thinkers with a passion for knowledge. Our programs are designed to help each child become confident, curious, self-disciplined and motivated.

• Junior and Senior Elementary, 8:30 a.m. to 3:15 p.m.

At Alcuin, classrooms operate on the principle of freedom within limits. Children, under the guidance of a teacher, work at their own pace with materials of their choosing. Each student may work alone or with others; different levels of ability are expected and welcomed within each classroom. Education occurs in multi-aged classrooms where children of various stages of development learn from and with each other.

Families currently attending Alcuin come from Oak Park, as well as Berwyn, Broadview, Brookfield, Chicago, Cicero, Elmhurst, Forest Park, River Forest, Riverside, River Grove and more.

• Middle School, 8:45 a.m. to 3:45 p.m. • Before/After School Care • Art • Musical Theater • Spanish

We welcome all prospective parents to join us for our monthly informational Coffees. We will start with some good coffee, a short video on Montessori education and then take an in-depth look into all of our classrooms. At the end of the tour we hold a question and answer session, Our programs for ages 0-14 include: and explain our admissions process. Tours • Parent/Infant - Frid, 8:45 to 10:30 a.m. are held throughout the school year on • Three to Five Day Toddler/Parent, 8:30 forThursdays (9:00-11:00 a.m.) at the main Alcuin campus. Visit Alcuin.org for tour to 11:30 a.m. dates. To enroll in a tours please e-mail • Primary, 8:30 to 11:30 a.m. our Director of Advancement at avalera@ alcuin.org or call 708.366.1882. • Full-Day Kindergarten, 8:30 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.

Now Enrolling Summer

TEST PREP HOMEWORK HELP SUMMER PROGRAMS PRE-K – 12TH GRADE

SAT, ACT & ISEE TEST PREP HOMEWORK HELP SUMMER PROGRAMS

Mathnasium: Summer Fun with a Purpose

t Mathnasium of Oak Park/River Forest, you can feel the buzz of activity and excitement as soon as you walk in the to door. Students of all ages from preschool e through high school are actively engaged in learning and understanding mathematics. older More than any other subject, math has a for ollege stigma of being boring and anxiety provoking. At Mathnasium, all the stress is taken out of or the process as compassionate instructors work one on one with learners. As owner, Jana Frank s explains, “We Make Math Make Sense. Kids se don’t hate math, they hate being frustrated and intimidated by it. Our job is to help our students cially develop number sense so they aren’t just able to do it, but actually understand what they are help doing and why. Since we individually assess d. each student and create a customized learning Pre K - 12th Grade curriculum for them, we are able to set students Remediation to Enrichment ED WE ARE EXPERIENCED up on a path to success.” Snose MATH SPECIALISTS FREESummer CONSULTATION FREE CONSULTATION Slide Prevention The staff at Mathnasium works to ensure , students are not just learning, but enjoying what An in-depth SAT/ACT look at how the An in-depth look at how the Prep y they are learning. “Even more important than LS WE TEACH ALL LEVELS Mathnasium Method works Mathnasium Method works to the & Geometry the math is the attitude and confidence,” says and howAlgebra we can meet your and how we can meet your OF MATH ABILITY ent. Frank. “We want to make sure every student family’s needs. family’s needs. Review/Preview me to feels welcome and encouraged to try their best.” nce PROVEN RESULTS Recently, Mathnasium started Mini Mathletes, Mathnasium Oak Park/River Forest Mathnasium La Grange h out a pre school math enrichment class offered 1101 Chicago Ave, Oak Park, IL 60302 1 S. Waiola Ave, La Grange, IL 60525 N for mathnasium.com/your web address Your Locationlagrange@mathnasium.com mathnasium.com/your web on address Saturday mornings. Mini Mathletes is an ght fit oakparkriverforest@mathnasium.com interactive class that uses songs, stories, art, 123 Any Street Rd. email mathnasium.com/oakparkriverforest mathnasium.com/lagrange movement, and other activities to introduce Any Town, ST 90000 ships 708.613.4007 708.582.6593 foundational math concepts to students aged s mathnasium.com/your web address March!

e Make Math ake Sense

Now nrollinMath g WeEMake SumSense Make mer

EARLY REGISTRATION SPECIAL: 20% OFF ALL Summer Programs during the month of March

800-123-4567

3-5. The next session starts Sat, April 13 and if you are interested, come check out a free class at our Mini Mathletes Open House, Sat April 6, 9-10 am. To register, please go to mathnasiumminimathletes.youcanbook.me On the other end of the age range, Mathnasium offers a high school hour for older students which can include test prep for college entrance exams. Mathnasium now hosts a free community event every other month for local students to take a math practice ACT exam. The final date for this free event this school year is Sat, May 4. To register, please visit mathnasiumact.youcanbook.me. Now that it is March, Mathnasium is officially enrolling for summer! Mathnasium offers short term, summer only memberships to help your kids catch up, keep up, and get ahead. Whether students struggled in their math classes this year or were leaps ahead, the proven Mathnasium Method can help diagnose and strength students’ abilities, knowledge, and most important, confidence to properly challenge them and take their math skills to the next level in a fun and engaging environment. Summer is some of the most productive time to hone in on math goals and make a difference to really start the school year strong. Reach out today to schedule a FREE TRIAL SESSION for your student to see if Mathnasium is the right fit for your family this summer. Please call or email as soon as possible as all summer memberships are currently 20% off through the end of March!

Special Advertising Section

E D U C AT I O N & E N R I C H M E N T G U I D E

Seed Summer 2019: Three Field Trips Each of Three Weeks

eed Summer 2019 will get on the road with 3 weeks of unbridled fun and learning. Join the Seed Montessori Afterschool community of kids, staff, and Director Ileana Gómez for 9 field trips and many, many amazing projects. Make an animated movie! Learn about graffiti and spray paint your own t-shirt (with low VOC paint)! Join Seed Summer 2019 and learn to tie knots and read a compass. Take a scavenger hunt on the 606! Kids entering grades 1-4 next year will delight in the explosive fun of Seed Summer 2019. Arrive 8-9am at our sunny Seed Montessori classroom on Madison Street, Oak Park, and gather your own healthy lunches and snacks (included in the camp price). Do you like to make veggie roll-ups? Do you like hummus? Grilled cheese? Do you like to make coleslaw? Or a you a sunbutter and jelly kid?

be avoided. After 30 years of teaching kids, she runs a safe and happy ship. Two beautiful Seed vans–equipped with booster seats and safe drivers–whisk Seed Summer kids all about. Visit a water powered grist mill, one of only two left in Illinois.Museums, the beach, the zoo, an Underground Railroad stop and trampolines! Seed Summer 2019 will take a Chicago Ghosts and Gangsters tour and visit the Poetry Foundation. And when all that going is over, Seed kids return to the comfort of our classroom to write, make collage, weave, sew. Register early: SeedMontessori.com and on Facebook. Limited registrations available. seedMontessori@gmail.com

606 scavenger hunt, chicago river, graue mill. sky zone, beach picnic, ghosts & gangsters. making & watching movies. , ice cream sundaes! underground railroad, weaving, textiles, story-writing, poetry, skits & plays, olympic games, painting, cartooning

3 Weeks: June 10-28

Three Field Trips Every Week!

Healthy Lunch and Snacks included every day

As low as $480 per week. 8 am - 6 pm.

Early Bird Discount Extended to March 24. Limited space.

seed

“Today’s the architectural boat tour on the Chicago River!” “I can’t wait for the scavenger hunt!”

Montessori Afterschool

“Friday we’re making ice cream sundaes after Olympic Games!”

Go to seedMontessori.com or contact Director Ileana Gómez Email: seedMontessori@gmail.com (708) 613-5860 https://www.facebook.com/Seed500/

500 Madison Street Oak Park

Ms. Ileana is at the lead so learning can’t

West Suburban Montessori School - An exceptional Montessori education in Oak Park for over 30 years

est Suburban Montessori School has been providing an exceptional Montessori education in Oak Park for over 30 years. We value kindness, hard work, and the spark or enthusiasm required for real learning to take place. The children who attend WSMS are on a path toward independence. Our graduates are confident, strong minded, outside of the box thinkers. They are kind, respectful, and curious.

Children actively engage in their learning. The guide gives lessons to the student, and the student continues the work independently.

West Suburban Montessori School embodies the educational principles established by Dr. Maria Montessori (1870-1952), an Italian physician who dedicated her career to the study of children. Following Dr. Montessori’s guidance, we focus on the whole child at WSMS, including the intellectual, physical, emotional, social, and spiritual development of the child.

An AMI credentialed guide in each classroom is key. Montessori guides focus on redirection, honest conversation, and encouragement of their students.

Montessori environments have mixed ages: Primary (ages 3-6), Lower Elementary (ages 6-9), and Upper Elementary (ages 9-12)

Summer Camp March 20, 2019

Hands on learning happens in Montessori environments. The Montessori materials are made to be touched and manipulated. Montessori students have freedom of movement. Movement is vital for all children.

Uninterrupted work cycles are paramount to Montessori classrooms. Students work at their own pace, learn to concentrate deeply, and develop interests in a full range of subject areas. West Suburban Montessori School is accredited by the Association Montessori International (AMI) to educate children from 3 to 12 years of age.

ACCEPTING ACCEPTING applications for applications forthe thefall fall For over 30 years, WSMS has provided an authentic Montessori

over years,WSMS WSMShas has provided provided an Montessori ForFor over 3030 years, anauthentic authentic Montessori education in Oak Park. We offer half day, extended day, and

education OakPark. Park.We We offer offer half day, andand education ininOak halfday, day,extended extended day, full full day day programs programs for for children children from from 33 to to 12 12 years years of of age. age. Call Call 708-848-2662 or e-mail wsms.org/tour to RSVP for a 708-848-2662 or e-mail wsms.org/tour to RSVP for a tour tour and and

full day programs for children from 3 to 12 years of age. Call 708-848-2662 or e-mail wsms.org/tour to RSVP for a tour and ignite your child’s curiosity for learning. ignite your child’s curiosity for learning.

ignite your child’s curiosity for learning.

1039 1039 South South East East Avenue Avenue Oak Oak Park, Park, IL IL 60304 60304 •• 708.848.2662 708.848.2662 wsms.org • facebook.com/westsuburbanmontessori wsms.org • facebook.com/westsuburbanmontessori

1039 South East Avenue Oak Park, IL 60304 • 708.848.2662 wsms.org • facebook.com/westsuburbanmontessori

E D U C AT I O N & E N R I C H M E N T G U I D E

March 20, 2019

Special Advertising Section

Learn The Beautiful Game!Â

he WLSC Soccer Camps are a great place for any soccer enthusiast who is looking to improve their skills, work hard, make new friends and have fun! Our mission is to provide athletes with the tools to improve and to enjoy soccer for life! We offer coed programs for children of all ability levels in a safe, fun and family oriented environment. We focus our training on foot-skills and ball control, SAQ (speed, agility and quickness), small sided games and finishing.

West Loop Soccer Club Skinner Park (1331 W Adams St) E: info@westloopsoccerclub.com P: 773.312.5054

Shoot Hoops with the Sharks this Spring! Mon/Wed from April 1st through May 8th (12 sessions)

Camp will be held at Roos Recreation Center, Forest Park - At the corner of Circle Ave and Harrison St.

Baby Sharks Intro to Basketball

K-4th Boys and Girls 5:00-6:00 (K-4th Co-Ed) $150.00 Each session will be composed of both drills and individual/team contests. Prior basketball experience is not required.

Junior Sharks 4th-6th Grade Boys and Girls King/Queen of the Ocean: 6:00-7:30 (4th-6th Co-Ed) $195.00

APEX Sharks 6th-9th Grade Boys King of the Ocean: 7:30-9:00 (6th-9th Boys) $195.00

King of the Ocean Shooting/Ball Handling Challenge Team Competitions in our Signature Sharks Format (Triple Threat, 33 Jumpstreet, etc...) Awards including custom shoes and bags available. Camp includes Sharks gear!

Learn more at

sharksbasketballacademy.com or email: info@sharksbasketballacademy.com

E D U C AT I O N & E N R I C H M E N T G U I D E

Special Advertising Section

Summer Program at Dominican Challenges & Inspires Gifted Students

ver thirty years ago, talent development in the education of gifted children was introduced across the nation, reflecting a growth of research and development around notions of intelligence. Ironically, when it comes to leaving no child behind today, we discover that gifted students can easily fall through the cracks as testing drives us to teach to a standardized response while bringing proficiency of all students to grade level. The phrase, “genius denied,” refers to those who will suffer a profound gap between their fullest potential and what little is asked of them, particularly when one size just doesn’t fit all. There is a common misnomer that gifted students can get by on their own, and therefore do not require specialized services. All too often, this misguided notion is also coupled with another myth that intelligence is merely inherited, does not change, and therefore again, does not require specialized services. Perhaps this is part of the reason why schooling for the gifted is too often a lonely and isolating experience. Not to mention, BORING!

March 20, 2019

Summer Gifted and Talented Program Dominican University’s Summer Gifted and Talented Program challenges and inspires highly motivated academically gifted and talented students entering grades 2-8 in the Fall with academic enrichment in Math, Science, Writing/Humanities, and Fine/Performing Arts. For program information, Summer 2019 courses and application form, visit: dom.edu/summergifted Questions? Contact Program Director Janie Wu at jwu@dom.edu or gifted@dom.edu. Serving the gifted and talented community for over 30 years.

Ask any gifted child what it’s like to learn with same aged peers who are learning at a less advanced level (a.k.a., “regular school”), and the most common reply will relate to waiting. Waiting for the other students to catch on; waiting for the instructor to challenge more; waiting for answers to higher-level questions; waiting for something to inspire a desire to achieve; waiting… for someone to notice. Summer enrichment programs for like-minded students provide inspiring opportunities for both academic

School of Education 7900 W. Division Street, River Forest, Illinois 60305 and social growth, and quite possibly, a life defining experience for the gifted and talented student. The Summer Gifted and Talented Program is offered on the beautiful campus of Dominican University, where our classrooms are buzzing with busyness because we know that academic talent must be developed, nurtured, and fed. For us, summer is the highlight of the

year. It’s a time when we can feel free to be our quirky curious selves, motivated by the energy that comes with the joy of learning. Visit educate.dom.edu/gifted-talented for more details about the Summer Gifted and Talented Program at Dominican University, where inspired minds cultivate amazing possibilities.

Wednesday Journal, March 20, 2019

OAKPARK.COM | RIVERFOREST.COM

1021 North Elmwood Ave Have you been searching for the perfect move-in ready Oak Park home with something a little EXTRA SPECIAL? This meticulously updated and maintained solid brick Colonial in North Oak Park features a new kitchen, baths, windows and a custom-built workshop off the heated garage! Whole house generator, lower level movie room and so much more! $650,000 OPEN HOUSE | Saturday, March 23rd | 11amâ&#x20AC;&#x201C;1pm

Steve Scheuring Realtor and Local Expert, Oak Park & River Forest steve.scheuring@compass.com 708.369.8043 Steve Scheuring is a real estate agent affiliated with Compass Real Estate. Compass Real Estate is a licensed real estate broker and abides by federal, state and local equal housing opportunity laws.

Wednesday Journal, March 20, 2019

NEED TO REACH US?

oakpark.com/real-estate email: buphues@wjinc.com

Homes

Keeping it local

A Queen Anne listing and a boutique real estate firm combine forces By LACEY SIKORA

Contributing Reporter

n Oak Park several home-grown real estate firms recently joined forces with larger, national firms to increase their market prowess. While bigger may be better in some respects, other experienced realtors are taking a different tack and staying small. Eli Schultz and Michael Nowicki formed a new boutique real estate company, Ideal Location, in 2017. By keeping their focus local and personal, they are acquiring a number of interesting listings, including a Queen Anne-style stunner on Elmwood Avenue.

Popular during the Victorian era, the American Queen Anne style is characterized by turrets, wraparound porches, classical columns, second-story porches and gabled roofs. Builders utilized the style frequently in Oak Park through the early 1900s, and many of the local homes in the style are clad in wooden siding. While 159 N. Elmwood Ave. checks the boxes for gabled roof, columns and porches, Schultz and Nowicki point out that the home is one of just a handful of brick homes in the Queen Anne style in the village. See LOCAL FOCUS on page 33

COURTESY OF IDEAL LOCATION REAL ESTATE

SHOWPLACE: The Queen Anne-style home at 159 N. Elmwood in Oak Park is unusual in that it is a brick structure, but it has typical features like a large open porch, gabled roofs and lots of wood trim inside.

Wednesday Journal, March 20, 2019

OAKPARK.COM | RIVERFOREST.COM

NEW LISTING

OPEN SUN 122

NEW PRICE

NEW LISTING

1147 FOREST AVE, RIVER FOREST

1434 JACKSON AVE, RIVER FOREST

427 N OAK PARK AVE, OAK PARK

234 S KENILWORTH AVE, OAK PARK

730 WOODBINE AVE, OAK PARK

6 br, 4.1 ba $1,400,000

5 br, 3.1 ba $939,900

4 br, 4 ba $890,000

5 br, 2.1 ba $799,000

5 br, 2.1 ba $699,000

Pauline Sharpe 708.848.5550

Sarah O'Shea Munoz 708.848.5550

Alice McMahon 708.848.5550

Kelly Fondow 708.848.5550

Alice McMahon 708.848.5550

NEW PRICE

NEW LISTING

OPEN SUN 13

1224 N KENILWORTH AVE, OAK PARK

612 THOMAS AVE, FOREST PARK

818 N RIDGELAND AVE, OAK PARK

325 N GROVE AVE, OAK PARK

1217 N MARION ST, OAK PARK

4 br, 3.1 ba $625,000

4 br, 2.1 ba $529,000

4 br, 3 ba $519,000

5 br, 1.1 ba $495,000

4 br, 3.2 ba $485,000

Cara Carriveau (Busch) 708.848.5550

Dorothy Gillian 708.848.5550

Dale Anderson 708.848.5550

Alice McMahon 708.848.5550

Susan Maienza 708.848.5550

Get Noticed. World-Class Marketing that moves your home from Listed to Sold.

KoenigRubloﬀ.com • 866.795.1010 OPEN SUN 12:302:30

OPEN SUN 122

NEW PRICE

1021 N KENILWORTH AVE, OAK PARK

1024 PLEASANT ST 6, OAK PARK

300 N MAPLE AVE 16, OAK PARK

1230 N EUCLID AVE, OAK PARK

1170 S HUMPHREY AVE, OAK PARK

3 br, 2 ba $475,000

3 br, 2.1 ba $450,000

3 br, 1.1 ba $429,900

4 br, 2 ba $399,000

Tabitha Murphy 708.848.5550

Victoria Witt 708.848.5550

April Baker 708.848.5550

Tabitha Murphy 708.848.5550

Robert Hann 708.848.5550

OPEN SUN 13

NEW PRICE

812 FERDINAND AVE, FOREST PARK

709 HAYES AVE, OAK PARK

2425 MAYFAIR AVE, WESTCHESTER

302 N OAK PARK AVE 3, OAK PARK

1120 HARRISON ST 5, OAK PARK

4 br, 2 ba $339,900

3 br, 1 ba $329,000

4 br, 2.1 ba $314,900

3 br, 2 ba $279,900

1 br, 1 ba $109,000

Tabitha Murphy 708.848.5550

Cory Kohut 708.848.5550

Armando Vargas 708.848.5550

Janet Rouse 708.848.5550

Michael Dmyterko 708.848.5550

Wednesday Journal, March 20, 2019

OAKPARK.COM | RIVERFOREST.COM

CONGRATULATIONS Oak Park Sales Award Winners

CHAIRMAN CIRCLE DIAMOND

CHAIRMAN CIRCLE GOLD

Gillian Baker Team

ATM Team

Tabitha & Adam Murphy

Dorothy Gillian, Anna Gillian & April Baker

PRESIDENTâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S CIRCLE

Sarah O'Shea Munoz

Victoria Witt

Team Kohut Barbara & Cory

Jeffrey O'Connor

LEADING EDGE

Kelly Fondow

Armando Vargas

Donna Serpico

Adriana Cook

Susan Maienza

HONOR SOCIETY Jeanette Madock

Alice McMahon & Dale Anderson

Monica Dalton

Susan Abbott

Linda Little

KOENIGRUBLOFF.COM

Christine DeLeon

Wednesday Journal, March 20, 2019

OAKPARK.COM | RIVERFOREST.COM

In The Village, Realtors® 526 ASHLAND AVE OPEN SUN 1-2:30PM Harry Walsh, Managing Broker

Mike Becker

opy) Oak Park • $870,000 Multi unit Call Harry x116

River Forest • $816,000 4BR, 4BA Call Marion x111

Oak Park • $708,000 4BR, 3.1BA Call Kyra x145

Oak Park • $579,900 3BR, 3.1BA Call Harry x116

Roz Byrne

Joelle Venzera

Tom Byrne

Oak Park • $517,000 Multi units Call Laurie x186

Forest Park • $429,500 Multi unit Call Joe x117

Elmwood Park • $439,000 4BR, 2.1BA Call Roz x112

Oak Park • $424,500 2BR, 2.1BA Call Elissa x192

Home of the Week

Kris Sagan

y) Laurie Christofano

Forest Park • $298,800 Multi unit Call Kyra x145

Oak Park • $275,000 3BR, 2BA Call Joe x117

Linda Rooney

Marion Digre

215 S Ridgeland Ave, Oak Park Morgan Digre

Ed Goodwin

Elmhurst • 249,000 3BR, 2BA Call Roz x112

Joe Langley

$525,000 • 5BR, 3BA

Forest Park • $193,900 2BR, 1BA Call Kris x101

Jane McClelland

Kyra Pych

Call Joe x117

Keri Meacham

Mary Murphy

Steve Nasralla

Elissa Palermo

Wednesday Journal, March 20, 2019

OAKPARK.COM | RIVERFOREST.COM

LOCAL FOCUS Spacious home from page 29 Architectural surveys of the Frank Lloyd Wright Historic District list its build date as 1902 and its original owner as A.J. Dove, but little else is known about its architectural provenance or early occupants.

Mix of old and new Listed at $1,075,000, the four-bedroom, three- and one-half bathroom house boasts over 6,000 square feet of living space on four finished floors and blends the old and the new throughout. The foyer includes original woodwork and an imposing staircase lined with leaded glass windows leading up to the upper floors. A double parlor at the front of the home has original touches such as pocket doors and a woodburning fireplace. The dining room opens to the new addition. Schultz says of the kitchen and MICHAEL NOWICKI mudroom addition, Realtor “the back of the house is huge now.” The new kitchen features a large center island, professional appliances and white cabinetry. It leads directly to the atrium-style mudroom, which has a ground-floor access to the backyard and plenty of storage for a family’s worth of gear. A rear staircase from the mudroom leads to the basement media room. The room was dug out as part of the 2014 addition to the home and features radiant-heated

“Real estate is local, and Oak Park is a niche market.”

PHOTOS COURTESY OF IDEAL LOCATION REAL ESTATE

BLENDING OLD AND NEW: Inside the home retains its Victorian charm, with an impressive wood staircase and leaded-glass windows (below, left). But it also has a contemporary, professional kitchen (above) and a convenient rear mudroom (below, right). floors. The basement also includes a full bathroom, a bonus family room, laundry room and a second set of stairs leading to the first floor. Four bedrooms share the second floor, including a master suite with a private bathroom and sunporch. The other three bedrooms share a recently-remodeled hall bathroom. The finished attic space is currently used as a bonus room, but Schultz sees many possibilities for the space.

“I really love how these windows up here are enormous,” Schultz said. “You could make this the master bedroom and have a huge space.”

Location, location, location While the size and finishes of the house are impressive, there’s more to the home than space and décor. A garage coach house offers a studio apartment, and the realtors agree that the location of the house is one

of the best in the village. Within walking distance of schools, Lake Street, the CTA Green Line, the farmers’ market and parks, the home may be an ideal location for many prospective buyers. For Schultz and Nowicki, it is just affirmation that they made the correct choice when choosing to name their boutique real estate firm Ideal Location. Nowicki notes that he and Schultz paired up in 2017 after See LOCAL FOCUS on page 34

Wednesday Journal, March 20, 2019

OAKPARK.COM | RIVERFOREST.COM

NEW LISTING

LUXURY 510 KEYSTONE, RIVER FOREST $1,395,000 :: 7+ BED :: 7.5 BATH

1122 FOREST AVE, RIVER FOREST $1,299,000 :: 6 BED :: 5.5 BATH

Gourmet kitchen opens to family room. Attached 3 car garage. Walk to train.

Gorgeous kitchen/family room beautiful 1/2 acre lot.

NEW PRICE

UNDER CONTRACT

132 S GROVE, OAK PARK $519,000 :: 3 BED :: 3 BATH

1024 SUPERIOR, OAK PARK $739,000 :: 4 BED :: 2.5 BATH

NEW LISTING 7310 HOLLY , RIVER FOREST $1,125,000 :: 6 BED :: 5.5+ BATH

Beautiful kitchen & baths. In the heart of Oak Park, walk to everything.

Classic Victorian in the heart of Oak Park.

Great newer family home in awesome location. Walk to everything!

KATHY & TONY IWERSEN 708.772.8040 708.772.8041 tonyiwersen@atproperties.com

Road Trip on the Horizon? Let us know we’ll hold your paper!

Email: circulation@oakpark.com

PHOTOS COURTESY OF IDEAL LOCATION REAL ESTATE

The double parlor (top) on the first floor retains its original woodwork, wood-burning fireplace and pocket doors, while the dining room (above) sports a leaded-glass window, French doors and oak trim.

LOCAL FOCUS from page 33 he found out that the larger real estate firm he worked for was being sold. He notes that change is never easy, but it seemed like a good time to make a leap. “After meeting with several bigger firms, we decided that it was the right time to go off on our own,” Nowicki said. “Real estate is local, and Oak Park is a niche market. We like to think of ourselves as your local alternative to the ‘big box’ firms.” For them the timing was right to make a go of it on a smaller scale, in part because of the tools available to all realtors, and in part because of their strong belief in the community they both call home. “Advancements in technology level the playing field for small firms like ours,”

Nowicki said. “Our listings go everywhere the big firms’ listings go. What separates us is our involvement in this community. Not only are we putting our personal reputation out there, but also the reputation of our families.” The two native Oak Parkers are dedicated to making selling homes a business that is local on all levels. They support independent vendors in the neighborhood and local contractors for painting and repairs. In doing so, they say, they’re part of the ecosystem of local businesses helping each other out. It also helps that the duo live in Oak Park and raise their kids where they work. For Nowicki, keeping it local means a better experience for their clients. “Eli and I help our clients like we’d help one of our siblings,” Nowicki said. “I think that’s why we have such a strong personal referral business.”

Wednesday Journal, March 20, 2019

OAKPARK.COM | RIVERFOREST.COM

Generations of Excellence since 1958

708.771.8040 • 7375 W. North Ave., River Forest Donna Barnhisel Cibula 7375 West North AvenueJoe Dan Bogojevich Don Citrano MANAGING Anne Brennan Alisa River Forest, Illinois 60305 Coghill BROKER/OWNERS Karen Byrne Kay Costello 708.771.8040 Kevin Calkins JoLyn Crawford Andy Gagliardo Tom Carraher Pat Cesario

Tom Poulos

Maria Cullerton Julie Downey

Kurt Fielder Yvonne Fiszer-Steele Ramona Fox Laura Gancer Chris Garvey Lisa Grimes Dan Halperin

Sharon Halperin Greg Jaroszewski Vee Jaroszewski Noa Klima Sherree Krisco Jack Lattner Charlotte Messina

Vince McFadden Elizabeth Moroney Colleen Navigato John Pappas Sue Ponzio-Pappas Rosa Pitassi Caroline Rauch

Michael Roche Jenny Ruland Laurel Saltzman Laurie Shapiro Tom Sullivan Debbie Watts George Wohlford Nancy Wohlford

Randy Ernst • 773-290-0307

1140 JACKSON • RIVER FOREST OPEN SUNDAY 13

924 ASHLAND • RIVER FOREST OPEN SUNDAY 13

221 KEYSTONE • RIVER FOREST OPEN SUNDAY 24

HISTORIC PRAIRIE is believed to have been built around 1891 and remodeled by William Drummond in 1916. It has all of the classic features: Incredible natural woodwork and phenomenal art glass windows. Elaborate pool and pool house in back yard. Too much to list. A Must See!! ................................................................. $1,199,000

SETTING A NEW STANDARD in approachable elegance, this five bedroom, 3-1/2 bath home will exceed your expectations with wide plank hardwood floors, striking lighting and custom millwork throughout. One of a kind floor plan, and three fully finished levels. ..............................................................................................$1,250,000

STATELY BRICK/STONE ENGLISH STYLE HOME with 6 bedrooms and 7-1/2 baths. Features include a formal living room with limestone wood burning fireplace, dream kitchen, sun-soaked breakfast room, Smart Home ready, white oak floors, mud room, 10 ft ceilings. .......................................................................... $2,490,000

BEAUTIFUL, CLASSIC HOME offers everything for today’s modern living. Custom-built home has the highest quality finishes. No detail was missed. Brick and stone exterior, wrap around porch, eleven-foot ceilings and oversized windows. LL has 2,000 feet of living area. ...........................................................................$1,595,000

512 THATCHER • RIVER FOREST

LOVINGLY MAINTAINED AND UPDATED, move-in ready, 6 BR, 3-1/2 BA Burma Brothers Home. Tall ceilings, original woodwork, oak floors, art glass, wood burning frpl, fam room/sun porch, den/lib with built-in bookshelves, mudroom. Fenced yard, 2 car gar & 2 add’l spaces. ........................ $1,250,000 THIS LOVELY HOME, found in premier RF location, offers wonderful space for family and entertaining, along with 2 fireplaces and hardwood floors. This elegant home is beautifully constructed and large enough to accommodate family and friends for years to come. ................................................. $1,225,000 STATELY LANNON STONE GEORGIAN is move in ready with five large BRs, and three full BAs. Large room sizes, remodeled gourmet kitchen, family room, three fireplaces , full finished basement, walk up third floor storage with 10 foot ceiling. Slate roof. Attd 2 car garage. ............................$1,095,000 THE ONE YOU’VE BEEN LOOKING FOR! Everything you want…pristine hardwood floors, wood trim throughout, expansive windows, custom kitchen, family room, expansive master suite, third floor with many options, redone basement. This house will not disappoint! ..............................$989,000 LOVELY BRICK GEORGIAN with elegance, modern day conveniences, and space. Features include hardwood floors, 3 fireplaces, family room, doublesided fireplace, sunroom with heated floors, beautifully paved patio. Lower Level rec room w fireplace and heated floors. ......................................$875,000 STYLE & ELEGANCE ABOUND in this ideally located 4 BR, 2-1/2 BA home. Gracious old world charm blends beautifully with the newly renovated open kitchen and family room addition. Lots of living space in this deceptively large home. 2 car garage & 1 ext space.......................................................... $850,000 UNIQUE QUALITY BURMA BUILT HOME with 5 bedrooms and 3 full, 2 half baths. House has many wonderful features; 2 separate office areas, hardwood floors, kitchen with all newer appliances, adjoining eating area-family room. Finished basement. Three car garage........................................ $845,000 GREAT LOCATION & EASY LIVING in this single family Tri-level home on a quiet Cul-De-Sac street. Great flow for entertaining, complete with family room. MBR has an en-suite European bath. Finished lower level has a 1/2 bath, study and exercise room. Growth to make it your own.............$585,000 VINTAGE CHARMER on tree-lined cobblestone street. Warm, inviting home with lots of potential! Living room is centered with a cozy fireplace, separate dining room, bright kitchen and spacious family room. 2nd floor has 3 BRs and 1 full BA. Large deck overlooking backyard. .......................$499,000

HANDSOME PRAIRIE INFLUENCED HOME, evident in gorgeous original wood and beautiful art glass windows throughout. Beautiful entryway, classic wood mantle, French doors, built- ins. Charming coach house. Special home much loved by same family for two generations ..................... $899,000 BEAUTIFUL TRADITIONAL BRICK HOME with four large bedrooms and two and a half baths offers a wood burning fireplace, high ceilings, leaded glass windows and beautiful architectural details. The sun room has French doors leading to a paved patio. A must see property! .........................$749,500 PRICE REDUCED MOVE FAST! Lovely 4 bedroom, 2-1/2 bath Tudor home with beautiful original woodwork, windows with built – in screens, wood burning stone fireplace, built-in shelving, family room with surround sound system. Two car garage with 2 extra spaces. Meticulously maintained! .......... .................................................................................................................... $669,000 CENTER OF TOWN VICTORIAN with high ceilings, four spacious levels of living in beautiful Oak Park. This 5 bedroom, 3-12 bath home offers a formal entry, wood burning FP, sun room, family room, eat-in kitchen. Great flow, tons of natural light & storage throughout this beauty!......................$639,000 PRICE REDUCED MOVEIN READY with space for everyone! Enjoy the well thought out design of this 5 bedroom, 4 bath home! 1st FL includes open floor plan, kitchen/family room combo, bedroom, full bath. 2nd floor features 4 bedrooms, 2 full baths, laundry. Finished basement with additional bedroom and 4th full BA. ........................................................................$584,900 CLASSIC QUEEN ANNE HOME with 3 bedrooms, 3-1/2 baths includes LR with gas FP and attached Sun room. 1st FL family room, updated kitchen with attached breakfast room. Great closet space. Finished rec room in basement. Custom deck. Great house for entertaining!..........................................$519,000 WELL MAINTAINED 1894 FARMHOUSE that is ready to move in to. 4 BRs, 2 full BAs. First floor features a LR/DR combo, kitchen with Island and a full bath. Basement is semi finished with laundry rm, TV area. Hardwood floors. Cen Air. New back porch. Great street in NW OP. .....................$479,000 CLASSIC NORTH OP HOME with impeccable curb appeal. Three bedroom, one and a half bath home includes a wood burning fireplace, stained glass, family room, eat in kitchen, ample closet space, expansive deck overlooking a beautiful yard. Discover the best of Oak Park!...................................... $469,000

911 THOMAS • FOREST PARK

554 THATCHER • RIVER FOREST OPEN SUNDAY 13

NE W LISTI NG!

NE W LISTI NG! MOVE IN READY home within walking distance to train and schools with everything you need and want. Wood burning fireplace, library, extra large designer eat in kitchen, family room, 3 bedrooms, two full baths, living space in basement, brick paver patio, 2 car garage. ................................................................$720,000

RIVER FOREST HOMES RARE NEW CONSTRUCTION in prime location is like no other. From the cut limestone, European detailing to the unequal foyer, it has no peers. This 7 bedroom, 7-1/2 bath home offers private office, elaborate chef’s kitchen, 10 ft ceilings, mud room, impressive lower level. .................................... $2,490,000 BURMA BUILT BUHRKE HOUSE combines Tudor revival & chateau style architecture elements. Gorgeous décor and impeccable attention to detail and care found in house and landscaped grounds, extends to fabulous in ground pool and patios. Perfect for entertaining........................................... $2,399,000 EXCEPTIONAL RENOVATION in the heart of RF presents unparalleled quality and design. The quality construction continues into the rehab where not a detail has been missed throughout this thoughtfully proportioned home with 6 BRs and 5 full and 1 half bath. .................................................$1,695,000 SPECTACULAR HOME offers modern/elegant architectural design, tasteful decor and impeccable attention to detail throughout, featuring 4 bedrooms and 5 full baths. Music room, private office, butler’s pantry, family room. Full basement w/wet bar, game room and rec room. .............................$1,550,000 BEAUTIFUL ITALIAN VILLA combines wonderful upgrades and finishes in a comfortable family home. New kitchen and four full floors of elegant living. All the rooms are spacious and sunny. Situated on a large corner lot in a quiet area but close enough to walk to the train!........................................$1,375,000

OAK PARK HOMES UNPRECEDENTED ESTATE in the Frank Lloyd Wright Historical district of Oak Park! This meticulously renovated 5 BR, 5 full / 2 half bath property offers exquisite details and refined finishes that boast timeless materials and over the top custom millwork. This is a showcase home! ........................$1,545,000

N E W L ISTIN G! RARE BRICK FOUR SQUARE HOME in a much sought after area. Features include 4 bedrooms, 2 full and 2 half baths, large foyer, hardwood floors, recently remodeled kitchen with attached family room, loft storage space in garage, small deck with private fenced yard. ........................................................................................$429,000 PRICE REDUCED ENJOY LUXURY LIVING in this masterfully renovated home on an extra wide lot. Gutted down to the studs, this Impressive open concept home features wood floors, natural light and high-style designer finishes. 1st FL office, finished LL family room and easy access to a large deck. .......................................................................................................... $449,000 PRICE REDUCED A GREAT HOME for your finishing touches to make it your own! Sunny LR with bay window. Separate dining area with attached family room leading out to deck. Stainless steel kitchen. 2nd floor has 2 BRs and full BA. Two and a half car garage and parking on side apron. ...$245,000

CONDOS/TOWNHOMES/2-FLATS

RIVER FOREST Duplex .........................................................................$419,000 RIVER FOREST 2BR, 2BA. Top floor, corner unit.............................. $250,000 RIVER FOREST 1BR, 1BA. Newly updated.........................................$114,500 NEW LISTING OAK PARK 2BR, 1BA. ................................................$218,000 FOREST PARK 1BR, 1BA. Neat, tidy unit. .............................................$95,000

FOREST PARK HOMES PRICE REDUCED AWARD WINNING RENOVATION of this impressive 4 bedroom, 3 full bath luxury home! Large open floor plan, designer kitchen, mud room with built-ins, huge pantry, finished basement rec room, loads of storage and three separate porches. Architect designed landscaping. ............. .....................................................................................................................$629,000

The Spring Market is Here! Contact a Gagliardo Realty Associates Agent for a free market analysis

For more listings & photos go to GagliardoRealty.com

Wednesday Journal, March 20, 2019

OAKPARK.COM | RIVERFOREST.COM

Sunday, March 24, 2019 ADDRESS

REALTY CO.

LISTING PRICE

TIME

3436 N. Narragansett Ave. UNIT 1, Chicago. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Baird & Warner Oak Park/River Forest. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $225,000 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Sat. 1:30-3:31 1456 Portsmouth Ave, Westchester. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Baird & Warner Oak Park/River Forest. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $230,000 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .12-2 3110 N. 78th Ave, Elmwood Park . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices KoenigRubloff Realty Group . . . . $262,900 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-3 812 Ferdinand Ave, Forest Park . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices KoenigRubloff Realty Group. . . . . $339,900 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-3 1021 N. Kenilworth Ave, Oak Park . . . . . . . . . . . . . Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices KoenigRubloff Realty Group . . . . $475,000 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .12:30-2:30 1217 N. Marion St, Oak Park . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices KoenigRubloff Realty Group . . . . $485,000 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-3

SINGLE FAMILY HOMES

600 N. Oak Park Ave, Oak Park . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Beyond Properties Realty Group . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $499,000 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-3 842 N. Elmwood Ave, Oak Park . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . @properties . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $564,900 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11-1 842 N. Elmwood Ave, Oak Park . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . @properties . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $564,900 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Sat. 11-1 1207 N. Elmwood Ave, Oak Park . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Baird & Warner Oak Park/River Forest. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $579,900 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1:30-3 945 N. Elmwood Ave, Oak Park . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Baird & Warner Oak Park/River Forest. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $619,000 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-3 405 Herrick Rd, Riverside . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Beyond Properties Realty Group . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $625,000 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-3 623 N. Grove Ave, Oak Park. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Beyond Properties Realty Group . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $750,000 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-3 1435 Clinton Pl, River Forest . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Baird & Warner Oak Park/River Forest. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $779,000 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11-1 526 Ashland Ave, River Forest . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Re/Max In The Village . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$816,000 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-2:30 554 Thatcher Ave, River Forest . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Gagliardo Realty Associates . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$1,199,000 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-3 1140 Jackson Ave, River Forest . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Gagliardo Realty Associates . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $1,250,000 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-3 1147 Forest Ave, River Forest. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices KoenigRubloff Realty Group . . . $1,400,000 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .12-2 221 Keystone Ave, River Forest. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Gagliardo Realty Associates . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $1,595,000 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-4 924 Ashland Ave, River Forest . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Gagliardo Realty Associates . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $2,490,000 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-3

CONDOS

ADDRESS

REALTY CO.

LISTING PRICE

TIME

210 N. Oak Park Ave. UNIT 1GG, Oak Park. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Baird & Warner Oak Park/River Forest. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $139,900 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-3 302 N. Oak Park Ave. UNIT 3, Oak Park . . . . . . . Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices KoenigRubloff Realty Group. . . . . $279,900 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-4 721 Ontario St, UNIT 106, Oak Park. . . . . . . . . . . . Baird & Warner Oak Park/River Forest. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $495,000 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .12-2

TOWNHOMES

ADDRESS

REALTY CO.

LISTING PRICE

TIME

300 N. Maple Ave. UNIT 16, Oak Park . . . . . . . . . Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices KoenigRubloff Realty Group . . . . $450,000 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .12-2 15 Forest Ave. UNIT 19, River Forest . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . @properties . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $554,000 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11-1 15 Forest Ave. UNIT 19, River Forest . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . @properties . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $554,000 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Sat. 11-1

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Wednesday Journal, March 20, 2019

OAKPARK.COM | RIVERFOREST.COM

PREVIEW HOUSE Produced by the Advertising Department

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721 Ontario Street, Unit 106, Oak Park

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Wednesday Journal, March 20, 2019

OAKPARK.COM | RIVERFOREST.COM

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Wednesday Journal, March 20, 2019

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Wednesday Journal, March 20, 2019

VIEWPOINTS W E D N E S D A Y

O A K

P A R K

V I L L A G E

J O U R N A L

T R U S T E E

Ken Trainor’s column p. 45

E N D O R S E M E N T S

R I V E R

Buchanan, Taglia, Wesley

software consultant and here are 11 candientrepreneur, Wesley dates running for has good ideas on how three open seats on to use added technology Oak Park’s village to streamline local govboard. It is a record ernment and increase number and it is our unastransparency. sailable conclusion that it A good word for every is also a record in terms candidate we have not of sheer breadth of talent. chosen: These are, to a person, Bridgett Baron is bright, passionate, decent SUSAN BUCHANAN CORY WESLEY an invaluable asset to Oak Parkers. As a group everyone who cares this is a most diverse mix about Oak Park government. Her of races, genders, sexual orientasteady presence, detailed research, tions, ages, and, as long as you lean fair-minded presentation have often a little left, the most politically open offered clarity and direction. candidacies in our experience. Graham Brisben comes to a village We are impressed. government campaign after a term But elections are about makon the District 97 school board. That ing choices and here are the three experience is both of value and bagcandidates we endorse in the April 2 gage in a town where schools have election: driven property taxes. Brisben is Susan Buchanan, Jim Taglia JAMES TAGLIA smart, grasps the complexity that is and Cory Wesley. inevitable in Oak Park and needs a Dr. Susan Buchanan gets our suprole to play in the future. port for the simple reason that she sees complexThomas Gary has strong experience in governity. When she discusses local issues — could be ment both elected and on staff. This gives him taxes, housing, buildings tall or short — she acmany insights worth hearing. His nonprofit work knowledges that the choices ahead aren’t simple, and active connection to work in Austin make aren’t black and white. And she is so right. him a special voice. This doesn’t make her wishy-washy, doesn’t Christian Harris is a young entrepreneur with make her answers vague. But those answers reflect nuance, an openness to listen, to learn, to a strong network in the business community. persuade and be persuaded. Those are fantastic He is currently on the elected library board and and often rare qualities on an elected board we look forward to watching him grow in that Buchanan has the right stuff in talking about important role. sustainability, housing, equity, taxes, transparenJoshua Klayman is both a candidate and a cy. It’s how she talks about it all that is so strong founder of VOICE, what could be a nascent poand welcome. litical organization in Oak Park. We look forward Jim Taglia is the only incumbent running to the role he and that group might play going among the 11. And because he was appointed to forward. fill out an unexpired term, this is his first direct Tim Thomas would add multiple perspectives appeal to voters for support. We offer our strong to the village board with his background in endorsement for his election, acknowledging union activism, as a renter in Oak Park, and as that he is the Al Gore of the campaign. The man a member of the LGBTQ community. He offers a is not built to campaign but he proves over and strong and passionate voice. again that he can effectively govern. It says evJames Thompson is a worthy candidate in a erything about him and his role on this challengstandout field. He is a member of the village’s ing board over two years that every incumbent Transportation Commission and we hope he will is supporting him. He is necessary glue. Steady. stay involved there as he has come to see the conWell studied. Without ego. nection between parking limits and fines and its Cory Wesley will bring a pragmatic approach unequal impact on renters, particularly those of to issues facing the village, from property taxes limited means and often people of color. to equity. We applaud his direct admonition that Arti Walker-Peddakotla is the most interesting all taxing bodies must exclude new property candidate in this race. With a strong progressive tax revenues from new construction — read voice, she challenges Oak Park’s comfort level high-rises — from levy requests. This is the which cannot happen too often. She talks about only way to make these buildings accomplish race and economic class with smarts and pasthe goal of mitigating taxes for everyone else. A sion. We will hear much more from her.

F O R E S T V I L L A G E

T R U S T E E

Bachner, Brennan, O’Connell

tion immigrant advocacy his is an exciting group, Indivisible and time to be part of serves on the Roosevelt River Forest village Middle School PTO. She government. We was also the only candiknow that because date to mention equity. nearly every candidate Bachner’s community for village trustee has involvement is admimentioned “excitement” rable, and we believe she as a motivation for runcould serve as a bridge ning, naming interest and thoughtful voice for in the village’s recently ERIKA BACHNER community members who instituted tax-increment may not traditionally be financing (TIF) districts, thought of when it comes approval of developments to River Forest. at Lake and Lathrop and Katie Brennan, meanChicago and Harlem, and while, already has community engagement experience serving the and communication. village of River Forest. Five individuals have Two years ago, Brennan announced their candihelped form the village’s dacy for the three open sustainability commisspaces come election in sion and has since served April. Based on endorseKATHLEEN “KATIE” as the group’s head. ment interviews, quesBRENNAN She has seen incredible tionnaires and village success by partnering board meetings, we the village commission believe Erika Bachner, with other groups. Her Katie Brennan and Robability to collaborate to ert O’Connell will best get things done – includlead the village over the ing helping make Park next four years. District of River ForBachner lives in a est events zero waste townhome that could be -- will help as the village affected by the new North explores new uses for Avenue TIF, and was ROBERT O’CONNELL the Civic Center through inspired to run, in part, an intergovernmental so she could have a say agreement with other taxing bodies. in how this entity is developed. As In her professional life, Brennan the only woman of color running, operates a law practice in the vilas well as the only potential trustee lage. She is an effective communiwho lives in a townhome, Bachner cator who could use those skills to offers a diverse perspective that better inform and engage residents. should be represented on the board She named promoting the village’s -- local government should reflect quarterly public safety meetings its community. Bachner has also as an example. She also said she’d advocated for better communication be interested in exploring grant with residents, by holding informal opportunities to institute green opportunities for community memtechnology in the police department. bers to meet board members, as well Brennan takes plans and runs with as live-streaming board meetings. We believe the village already does them. We’re excited to see how this a generally good job communicating momentum translates into success information but agree there’s room for River Forest. for improvement. Bachner is involved in several community groups including PASO West Suburban AcSee RF TRUSTEES on page 42

V I E W P O I N T S

Wednesday Journal, March 20, 2019

W E D N E S D A Y

D I S T R I C T

J O U R N A L

contract that bends his is the toward equity and is moment for not a slap in the face Oak Park and to taxpayers. River Forest Ralph Martire is High School. a newcomer only to Too many decades OPRF. He has been of indecisiveness an extraordinarily on complex issues effective school of race and equity, a board member and decade spent piling president of the up cash unfairly SARA DIXON SPIVY GINA HARRIS River Forest District snatched from tax90 elementary school payers, a half-centuboard. Martire was there as ry of polishing but not investthat district, to our astonished ing in its physical plant, and delight, acknowledged that it a culture that handed over fat was a high-performing raises to staff without significant academic district demands for change or regard to with a serious rathe impact on taxpayers have all cial opportunity brought us to an inflection point. gap. Coupled Each of these issues, all of with Supt. Ed these issues twined, have been set Condon, that on the tee by the current school RALPH MARTIRE board has been board and administration with bold and decisive a steady push by a community in taking on equity. He brings of activists both outside and inside 201 N. that experience, three years on Scoville Ave. the high school’s Culture, Climate It will be the school board chosen by voters and Behavior Committee, as well as on April 2 that determines if District 200 his widely respected professional experience takes bold, confident action on these multiple and related fronts or somehow squanders this as the executive director of the bi-partisan Center for Tax and Budget Accountability. moment of transformation. Martire will be a stellar addition to this On election day, voters will have six candiboard. dates for the three open seats on the school Gina Harris is a longtime educator with board. Four of those candidates would be well a focus on equity, restorative justice and positioned to lead in this moment. Two in our teacher training. An OPRF alum and now the opinion have a less holistic understanding of the issues at the school. They are Vic Guarino parent of OPRF students, Harris brings frontline experience in how equity challenges play and Amanda Massie. out in the everyday lives of our children. She Our strong endorsements go to incumbent brings uplifting ideas on unity and pragmatic Sara Dixon Spivy and newcomers Gina ideas on how to control spending. Harris and Ralph Martire. Narrowly left Not endorsing Fred Arkin is a hard choice. off our list is incumbent Fred Arkin. This is more like leaving a talented player off Spivy has played a critical role on the curthe playoff roster than in any way diminishrent board as it has undertaken the compliing his talent or passion for the work of the cated path of leading on racial equity, finally high school. Like Spivy, Arkin gets full credit putting the albatross of the $100 million cash reserve to some good use, undertaking a for bringing the high school to this decisive major capital plan that focuses solely on class- point. In our opinion though, Harris adds a rooms and shared student spaces, and was voice that needs to be heard on this school patient and firm in negotiating a teachers board right now.

RF TRUSTEES from page 41 Robert O’Connell’s professional experience as the national real estate lead for McDonald’s means he knows business. And, as River Forest watches development of two recent -- and big -- projects at Lake and Lathrop

E N D O R S E M E N T S

2 0 0 / O P R F

For OPRF, Spivy, Harris, Martire

and Chicago and Harlem, O’Connell’s professional experience will be a huge asset in getting these projects done successfully. We are also inspired by his vision for economic development in River Forest. He also believes the village should help local businesses train and retain employees, saying excellent service could help transform River Forest into a shopping destination for repeat customers. O’Connell has clearly learned from his time

@ @OakParkSports

D I S T R I C T

9 7

S C H O O L

B O A R D

Spurlock, Moore, Kearny, Kim

he groundwork for powerful action on racial equity has been laid in Oak Park’s District 97 public elementary schools. The denial of institutional racism has ended. Sincere efforts in equity training across the district have been underway. Data has been gathered and studied. A strong equity plan has been adopted with builtin measures of accountability. That’s good work and the current school board and administration deserve thanks and credit. But there is an election April 2 for the school board which will make this equity effort real or not. Happily, there are five strong candidates for the four open seats on this board. We endorse Holly Spurlock, the only incumbent in the race, and Jung Kim, Cheree Moore and Gavin Kearney. Currently president of the D97 school board, Spurlock offers continuity on the critical equity issue as well as leadership on district finances, enrollment and administration. Every new board member will need months to acclimate to the complex issues in this district and will benefit from Spurlock’s experience. Cheree Moore is a D97 parent of three who also came up in the school district herself. She offers an advocate’s perspective that is sometimes missing on this school board. She has a clear-eyed appreciation and a fair-minded critique of how D97 works on the ground for families — especially families of color and families who need the full range of educational services the district offers. She is candid and empathic and will be a critical voice on this school board. Gavin Kearney has been a skilled leader, as part of the district’s Diversity Council, in crafting the strong equity policy the district recently adopted. As a well-regarded civil rights lawyer, he brings a wealth of experience on this

as head of the village’s economic development committee. It’s hard to argue against another term for incumbent Mike Gibbs but in a competitive race we have to make a cut. Gibbs offers institutional knowledge and private sector experience that will help as the village focuses in on completing recent developments. He’s an affable guy, loud advocate for causes he believes in and has maybe missed two board

HOLLY SPURLOCK

JUNG KIM

CHEREE MOORE

GAVIN KEARNEY

topic from his work nationwide. He will help the district execute the transparent implementation of this policy and help hold it accountable for its efforts. We like his recognition that the focus on equity is a long-term project and that there will be urgent issues along the way that will need to be addressed, too. Jung Kim is thoughtful and strong on equity. Specifically, she calls out the over identification of students of color in special ed and also in disciplinary action. Those are critical, student-by-student issues that need to be at the top of the list of equity issues. We also admire her admission of a necessary “balancing act” between property tax increases which are “unsustainable” and funding a strong and equitable education. “The district may also need to prioritize some items over others in order to be more fiscally responsible,” she says. Absolutely true. Barika Grant is also a good candidate but we do not find the depth of knowledge and perspective on important issues that we see among the other candidates.

meetings in all his years on the board. The village would certainly benefit from another term from Gibbs. Wednesday Journal cannot endorse Gregg Kuenster for trustee. He is currently embroiled in a legal battle with the village over his home which, we feel, is one of the main reasons he’s running. Kuenster also struggles to effectively engage with others. He’s not the right person to represent River Forest.

V I E W P O I N T S by Marc Stopeck

S H R U B T O W N

Wednesday Journal, March 20, 2019

W E D N E S D A Y

JOURNAL of Oak Park and River Forest

Editor and Publisher Dan Haley Senior Editor Bob Uphues Associate Publisher Dawn Ferencak Staff Reporters Michael Romain, Timothy Inklebarger, Nona Tepper Viewpoints Editor Ken Trainor Sports/Staff reporter Marty Farmer Columnists Marc Blesoff, Jack Crowe, Doug Deuchler, John Hubbuch, May Kay O’Grady, Kwame Salter, John Stanger, Stan West, Michelle Mbekeani-Wiley, Cassandra West, Doris Davenport Staff Photographer Alexa Rogals Editorial Design Manager Claire Innes Editorial Designers Jacquinete Baldwin, Javier Govea Business Manager Joyce Minich IT Manager/Web Developer Mike Risher Advertising Production Manager Philip Soell Advertising Design Manager Andrew Mead Advertising Designers Debbie Becker, Mark Moroney Advertising Director Dawn Ferencak Advertising Sales Marc Stopeck, Bill Wossow

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About Viewpoints CALVIN DAVIS

BARBARA HICKEY

RICHARD MOORE

KATHLEEN AVALOS

Davis, Hickey and Moore

ncumbency in a school district which performs well but actively addresses its self-diagnosed shortcomings is a pretty good argument for winning our endorsement. And so in River Forest’s District 90 public elementary schools we readily endorse incumbents Calvin Davis, Barbara Hickey and Rich Moore for four-year terms. The three make articulate and passionate arguments for continuing the work they have done, with board colleagues and a courageous school administration, in acknowledging and confronting the racial equity issues in this affluent district. River Forest’s elementary schools could easily have continued to skate by on their top test scores, contented parents and stable teaching force. Instead, these candidates helped lead an effort to understand the roots of the institutional racism that afflicts this and most every school district, worked a plan to offer challenging equity training across the district, built a diagnosis of the existing issues and a bold plan to fix the shortcomings.

Each of these three bring solid and varied experiences to the board. Moore is a public high school administrator and longtime teacher. Davis has been active in many ways in the local schools as well as Cub Scouts, the park district and youth basketball. Hickey raised five children who came through D90 and OPRF and was an active volunteer in those schools. These are standout candidates and earn our backing over challengers Matt Heffner, Allison Jack and Hui Kang.

And Avalos for 2-year term

In a race for a two-year term on the D90 board we support Katie Avalos over Steve Lefko. Both have played active and positive roles in the school district. Our support for Avalos reflects her enthusiasm for fostering further and faster change in the district related to equity. Lefko’s cautions in moving ahead cause us some worry as delay can be a distraction from an essential goal.

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, fire 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 filing. Please understand our verification 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 verification, 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 confirm a detail, we may not print the letter or essay. If you have questions, email Viewpoints editor Ken Trainor at ktrainor@wjinc.com.

LETTER TO THE EDITOR ■ 250-word limit ■ Must include first and last names, municipality in which you live, phone number (for verification only)

‘ONE VIEW’ ESSAY ■ 500-word limit ■ One-sentence footnote about yourself, your connection to the topic ■ Signature details as at left

Email Ken Trainor at ktrainor@wjinc.com or mail to Wednesday Journal, Viewpoints, 141 S. Oak Park Ave., Oak Park, IL 60302

V I E W P O I N T S

Wednesday Journal, March 20, 2019

C A N D I D A T E

O N E

Building on success, looking to the future

am running for the District 90 school board because I’m excited about the great things going on in our schools and want to contribute in a more meaningful way as we look to prepare our kids for their future rather than our past. We have excellent schools that draw people to our community, but if we do not evolve and change with the times, then other communities and schools will pass us by. We must build on our success and look to the future. I was endorsed by the D90 Community Caucus as the most qualified candidate for the two-year term. My priorities are: ■ Continuing fiscal responsibility and working for creative solutions ■ Modernizing education through the adoption of rigorous curriculum and well-regarded teaching strategies ■ Enhancing D90 communication and engagement through technology ■ Focusing on social emotional learning and addressing the issues related to anxiety and depression facing students I have the experience and knowledge needed to serve on the board. For the past four years, I have been the PTO board liaison. I attended meetings on a regular basis and witnessed firsthand the research and decision-making process that got us where we are today. I understand how the district is looking to best prepare our kids for the modern world, while instilling a love of learning and ensuring educational excellence for all kids by increasing engagement and bringing joy to learning. I bring a fresh and valuable perspective. I am the mother of three kids with very different academic needs. My seventh-grade son has learning disabili-

V I E W

Building consensus to move the village forward

ties and receives special education services. My fourth-grade daughter is a high-achieving student and my second-grade daughter is a creative hands-on learner. This means I understand the experiences of a variety of students in our district and the families that support them. In addition to volunteering in our schools, I have worked for the Community of Congregations for the last seven years. We are a local interfaith organization that oversees the Holiday Food and Gift Basket program and the Celebrating Seniors Coalition. I have experience in our schools and work within our community. This means I can consider a broad range of interests as a board member. I chose to run for the two-year term to offer an alternative and give voters a choice. Many current and past board members are supporting me. Many current and past PTO presidents and parents who are active in our schools are supporting me. It is because I’m the most qualified candidate for the position and I’m willing to ask questions, listen to the answers, and look for solutions. I have the experience needed to do the job, bring a new and valuable perspective, and am willing to ask questions and offer new ideas. River Forest has great schools and is a community that people want to move to and raise their families. I am committed to keeping it that way through well-researched positive changes. I hope you will vote for me on April 2. Kathleen Avalos is running for a two-year term on the District 90 school board.

KATHLEEN AVALOS One View

OAKPARK.COM | RIVERFOREST.COM

’m Jim Taglia, and I’m running for village trustee because forward thinking and consensus building are essential to successful decision-making by the village board. I bring these skills to the board table and deploy them in every decision I make on behalf of the residents of Oak Park. As elected officials, we can learn from the past and respect it, but we can’t change it. Our work has to be about the future of our village and how to improve it. This means strengthening regulations on electronic cigarettes to protect our children. It means advancing quality affordable-housing projects. And, of course, it means driving budget discipline to relieve the increasing burden on the taxpayer. As a public servant, ensuring a better future for our community is what drives me. Of course, as a village trustee, I have one vote among seven co-equal votes. So I work constantly to build consensus among staff, board members and stakeholders. For example last year, staff proposed a special events ordinance that local businesses said was expensive and onerous. I worked with staff to craft a solution and discussed it with each trustee. The end result was an ordinance that trustees, staff

JIM

TAGLIA

One View

Community service and leadership

’m running for River Forest trustee because I’m excited about the opportunities presented to the village in the next few years and I’d like to continue to play an active role in helping River Forest make the most of them. I’ve enjoyed the privilege of serving in leadership roles in River Forest over the past 6½ years as chair of the Village Sustainability Commission, president of the Park District Parks Foundation, and an active leader of the LemonAid Charity Event. I believe my leadership experience in two different taxing bodies in River Forest, my professional skills as an attorney and small business owner, and my “roll up the sleeves” work ethic uniquely qualify me for the village trustee role. My priorities for the village are:

Keeping River Forest a safe community: This includes providing state-of-the-art training and technology for our police and fire departments, and enhanced communication and community education to ensure our village is safe for our families. Smart, thoughtful economic development: I will use my seven years of community leadership experience and skills honed from 20 years of legal advocacy, negotiation and dispute resolution to promote the right commercial development that fits in with River Forest’s character and size and helps contain our

property taxes. Continue enhancement of quality of life in River Forest: My work to create a River Forest Bike Path Plan and make River Forest the second community in Illinois with curbside composting already enhances our resident quality of life, attracts new homebuyers, and bolsters our property values. I will continue to seek out and support projects that will make River Forest a healthier, more vibrant community. I believe that most of the issues before the village board are not black and white, but require careful analysis,

KATHLEEN BRENNAN One View

and the business community agreed was fair for all, and it passed unanimously. Sitting trustees, and candidates for the position, understandably, bring to the job their passion for certain causes. I admire their advocacy, but a seven-member board needs someone with the ability to reconcile conflicting needs and to lead the board to compromise in an effort to serve all of Oak Park. That’s what I do. It means some will not be happy with me. But making a policy decision is not about advancing my personal beliefs. Rather, it is advancing what I believe to be in the interest of the community as a whole. I always strive to do just that by listening to all stakeholders and building consensus to achieve the fairest result we can. My leadership skills, along with my experience as a business owner and CPA, my life-long residency, and my love for the community, have prepared me to be a trustee who can get things done and move our village forward. I would be honored to receive your vote on April 2 for one of the three open seats on the board, and I pledge to continue to represent you with all of my ability. James “Jim” Taglia is a current village trustee and candidate for election to another term in the April 2 election. He is a lifelong Oak Park resident.

creativity, and thoughtful consideration. I am a practical, approachable and openminded listener and willing to thoughtfully consider all aspects of issues before the board. It’s crucial that village trustees know how to collaborate and communicate with residents and other institutions. I’ve demonstrated these abilities and responsible stewardship on behalf of the village, the park district and our community, and I’m ready to apply them as a member of the village board of trustees. My family moved to River Forest for the schools, and we’ve stayed for the community. I’m excited for the opportunity to continue to give back to the community that has provided so much to my family. I’m asking for your vote.

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Wednesday Journal, March 20, 2019

Moving ahead, honoring the past

very time I pass the Walgreens at Oak Park Avenue and Madison Street in Oak Park, I shake my head in disbelief. Awe is not a sensation one normally associates with Walgreens. Typically, I connect them with the mall-sprawl-ization of America, not to mention the epidemic of omitted apostrophes in commercial signs (though I admire the graceful penmanship of their script logo). What I marvel at with this particular Walgreens is the façade. It’s the same façade that has existed on the corner for decades. Previously I associated that façade with Sears, the little pharmacy that could, known best for their clever signage, which informs us that, at the very least, the pharmacists inside have a sense of humor. When Walgreens usurped that corner, Sears moved down the street to the southwest corner (almost) of Madison and Home. But that’s another story. When Walgreens started building their new location at Oak Park and Madison, they did something pretty unusual. They tore down the tired, old, un-historically-significant building, but kept the façade. I’ve heard it referred to as a “façade-ectomy.” Skeptic that I am, I have trouble believing that a large corporate pharmaceutical chain came up with this idea on their own, so, naturally, my suspicions fell on village government, which somehow convinced them to go to considerable extra lengths, not to mention expense, to save this relatively undistinguished façade and attach their new construction behind it, with the main entrance facing the parking lot on Grove Avenue. If you want to see what this Walgreens would look like fronting Oak Park Avenue and Madison Street without the old façade, take a look at the Grove Avenue side. Not a particularly pretty sight. So the old façade, as un-significant as it might be architecturally, represents a vast visual improvement over what we could be looking at every time we pass that intersection. Which is why I shake my head when I pass. Because it actually works. The whole process worked: village government negotiating with a large corporation to do something beyond business as usual, a large corporation being sensitive enough to community continuity to say OK, and the fact that the finished product is a vast improvement over what might have been. Sounds to me like a terrific development model — moving forward while honoring the past. It worked again right across the street when the village OK’d redevelopment of the old Comcast building — not by some large profit-focused corporate entity, but an idealistic, affordable-housing nonprofit, which stripped off the ghastly Dryvit, a 1970s-era sprayed stucco finish, revealing an attractive older building underneath. Development and preservation, not as antagonists, not as adversaries, but collaborative partners — looking back while moving ahead. It should be our default setting, especially in a town like Oak Park with such historical and architectural heritage. Respecting continuity because, without continuity, we have no soul, no roots, and therefore no true flowering. So why didn’t it work — to date anyway — with the Hill Motor/Packard/Foley-Rice/E.E. Roberts building, the one with the cool grotesqueries or gargoyles adorning the corner of Madison Street and Wesley Avenue (north side, not to be confused, as it often is, with the Foley-Rice Cadillac showroom building on the south side of Madison)? The Hill Motor building is (or was and probably could

be again) not only attractive, but of historical significance (if you’re not familiar with E.E. Roberts, Prairie-Style architect, you need to read up and catch up). It’s sitting on part of the parcel where Pete’s Fresh Market wants to build its second supermarket in Oak Park (talk about a vote of confidence!). So why didn’t the village, before signing the “preferred developer” agreement with Pete’s, ask them to consider saving, if not the entire building, then at least the façade? A trifecta for the Oak Park-Madison area. But they didn’t. Reportedly they tried once before with Aldi’s, which turned tail and ran in the opposite direction. Evidently, the village was afraid Pete’s would do the same, so they didn’t ask. Which triggers my main complaint about the village when it comes to development: We don’t ask for enough (kudos to former River Forest Village President Frank Paris who was the first to lodge this complaint about Oak Park’s too-timid approach to development). And maybe we don’t ask in the right way either. Fortunately, two genuine preservation advocates — architect Frank Heitzman and Historical Society Executive Director Frank Lipo, the two Franks — frankly raised the issue and, to their credit, the village board, albeit too briefly, considered the matter. Pete’s officials also sound like they’re willing to consider the project. Unfortunately, too many knee-jerk, development-only proponents around town have rolled their eyes and dismissed this proposal out of hand, demonstrating how far we are from the ideal approach that balances development with preservation. Oak Park’s development era is now a quarter-century old, starting with the Seymour Taxman Harlem Avenue strip mall in the mid-1990s, which includes The Gap, Old Navy and Pier 1, etc. For a long time, opponents fought development efforts, in ways that earned preservationists the anti-development NIMBY (Not in My Backyard) label. Then the Great Recession hit in 2009 and all development efforts halted. When they resumed, Oak Parkers were much more in the mood to support economic development and elected Anan Abu-Taleb, who declared the village “open for business.” A building boom resulted and any dissent was dismissed as “extremists who are afraid of our shadows.” Now the shoe is on the other foot as development proponents seem intent on earning an antipreservation, Anything in Our Backyard label. The issue has divided the village. Too few residents (and candidates) are willing to say they are proponents of both development and preservation. The election on April 2 will tell us whether we are still either/or on development/preservation or whether we might yet develop a healthier both/and approach. We can’t afford to be either economically underdeveloped or economically overdeveloped. We can’t afford to either sell our soul to commerce or simply turn our town into a museum piece. We don’t need elected officials who are committed to one side while merely paying lip service to the other. We need people who can do development and preservation and do both of them well. The balance is crucial to healing our village rift.

KEN

TRAINOR

Adaptive reuse is the ticket

have followed the issue with the Hill Motor Building and the proposed Pete’s Fresh Market with great interest. It seems that we are being given a choice: either save the Hill Motor Building as a priceless artifact of Oak Park history or wipe the site clean in the name of progress and development. This is a false choice, predicated on reactionary thinking that is firmly founded in the last century. Speaking as one who has evaluated hundreds of existing buildings worldwide during my career, it is my opinion that the Hill Motor Building is sound and viable and large portions could be adaptively reused for a new grocery store facility and address all space requirements — if developers are given the proper guidance. Such practices are not unprecedented, in fact quite common, and have been successfully implemented just two blocks to the west at the Walgreens store and several blocks to the northeast at Ridgeland Common. It is time for the Oak Park Board of Trustees to enter the 21st century and consider our environment as any progressive municipality must do. Sustainable development, ignored by our trustees, should become foremost in their deliberations. Sustainability is the ability to endure and maintain over time, increasing the efficiency of a resource, and create minimum impact on health and the environment. The Hill Motor Building, if adapted for reuse, can be a valuable and durable resource. “The greenest building is the one that already exists.” We cannot build our way to sustainability. Demolition and reconstruction are easy but offer only short-term economy and solutions. Our culture is enamored with the new and this can cloud our judgment, causing us to profoundly undervalue existing resources. Will we continue to stand by as pollutionspouting equipment turns usable buildings to rubble and polluting equipment hauls away discarded building materials — concrete, ALEXA ROGALS/Staff Photographer brick, metal and glass — into a landfill to be abandoned? Will we mine, quarry and harvest more materials — metal ores, clay, gravel, lime, cement, trees, etc. — to be processed and manufactured in polluting factories to make new building materials? Or can we try a new way that is gentler on the environment? The east and south facades of the Hill Motor Building retain a significant amount of their historic features, including yellow, wire-cut brick; cream-colored terra cotta ornament; and a green, triple-spot glazed terra-cotta base that resembles granite. A terra-cotta cornice with various figures engaged in automobile-related activities extends along the facade. Above the large showroom windows, groups of diamond pane lead glass sash are set deep into terra-cotta surrounds. These materials are lovely, unique to their time period and durable if maintained. Some of them are neither easily recreated in today’s market nor will they be in the future. There is a Native-American proverb: “The earth is not given to us by our parents; it is lent to us by our children.” What will we leave our children other than a new grocery store? Let’s do better. It is easier to just throw something away and start fresh than to reuse. If we always choose the easy path in our village, Oak Park would not be such a unique and wonderful place. Let’s incorporate the Hill Motor Building into the proposed development; respect history, the environment, our children; and create a win-win for our community. Stephen J. Kelley, FAIA, SE, is an Oak Park resident.

STEPHEN KELLEY One View

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Wednesday Journal, March 20, 2019

Avalos is the most qualified for D90

We have had the opportunity to observe and evaluate the perspectives of the District 90 school board candidates. Of particular note, is the campaign between Katie Avalos and Steve Lefko. Without a doubt, Katie Avalos is the most qualified candidate. Over the last few months, the D90 board prepared to vote on the Roosevelt schedule change. There were heated debates and a learning curve for many. Katie engaged in respectful discourse in this process. She shared information from her experience as the PTO school board liaison, imparted a solid understanding of why changes were proposed, and reached out to board members and D90 staff to gain the best understanding. She was willing to ask questions but also look for solutions. Katie understands the district’s strengths and weaknesses. She is an independent thinker and knows where we can be better. She wants D90 to remain a welcoming and safe environment for all kids. She has respect for our teachers as our district’s greatest resource and values their opinions and experiences. She works for the Community of Congregations, a local organization that strives to open communication across boundaries of faith. This work gives her the tools for effective listening and collaboration. Katie will use these qualities to improve transparency and communication. We wholeheartedly endorse Katie Avalos. Her commonsense approach is a breath of fresh air. She will keep our schools strong and will keep us well-informed. She is the best choice. We need Katie. Katie needs you. Vote for her on April 2! With proud enthusiasm and many years of combined experience in D90 schools,

Beth & Peter Vlerick, Laura & Mike Minnis, Rebecca & Chris DeGroff, Tim Brandhorst, John & Molly Grant, Sarah Schiavone Hampson & Brett Hampson, Nikki & Scott Elza, Melissa & Derrick Mitchell, Misty & Dan Olson, Katie Iammartino, Jenny Kelly, Sarah Joyce, Sharon Barry, Kelly O’Keefe

Bachner and Brennan for River Forest trustee

As the April 2 election fast approaches, let’s remember how important it is to elect village trustees who are always well prepared and thoughtful in their decision-making. This election, River Forest is privileged to have two candidates — Erika Bachner and Katie Brennan — with that in common: They thoughtfully evaluate issues rather than make knee-jerk reactions or adhere to rigid political ideology. They dig for the facts, have been well prepared when they’ve served on public committees, and make fact-based decisions. Erika and Katie will bring diverse viewpoints to the River Forest Village Board that are more representative of the village as a whole. While they don’t agree on everything, they certainly are the best candidates to replace the two thoughtful and well-prepared trustees, Sue Conti and Carmella Corsini, who did not seek re-election.

Dan and Diana Lauber

River Forest

OAKPARK.COM | RIVERFOREST.COM

Buchanan has priorities in proper place Relocating to take a new job in 1990, I settled in Oak Park. I knew little about its “progressive” history. But it seemed like a good place to live for a few years, as I had been moving every few years for work. Those few years have spanned to almost 30. Something kept me here. It was the quality of life, the intellectual stimulation I found among the residents here, the activism that never lets up, the belief by many that they can get something worthwhile accomplished. Everyone here has talents, interests and the kinds of unique energies that also energize me. And I believe we all want Oak Park to be a good place to call home. What does that mean? Schools that are excellent and equitable. Neighborhoods that are peaceful. Neighbors who are kind and affable. Public officials we can trust to make sound, fair, well-considered, transparent, unbiased decisions. We get that by electing candidates whom we believe exemplify the values that matter to us. I want someone who thinks with an open mind, knows how to assess the many sides of an issue, can tease out the nuances of data, and centers people at the heart of every matter. The candidate for village trustee who embodies those traits best for me is Susan Buchanan. A family doctor and environmentalist, Buchanan will bring strong credentials and skills to a board that has no

shortage of “business people.” She also will bring something else a good trustee should possess: listening skills. She’s smart and also smart enough to know that she can also still learn something new. These past few months, she has called on many Oak Parkers to hear what they have to say about housing, business, taxes, development, equity and inclusion, parking — and all those other topics we never tire of discussing, or complaining about. She has learned that Oak Parkers are complicated, conflicted, caring and sometimes uncompromising in their views. And she still wants the job. I believe she will be an excellent trustee. And something else about her that earns my support: she cares deeply about our environment and wants Oak Park to be a real leader in reducing its negative impacts on our planet. To paraphrase what a young climate activist said recently, “Taxes [fill in your own Oak Park gripe] won’t matter if the Earth is uninhabitable in 20 years.” That’s real, folks. Perspective matters. I believe Susan Buchanan will keep Oak Park’s priorities in the proper perspective. In the April 2 election, I ask you to cast your vote for Susan Buchanan for village trustee.

Cassandra West Oak Park

Kim will work for equity and quality in D97 We are writing in support of Jung Kim’s candidacy for the District 97 school board. A couple of us have known Jung for 10 years as a colleague at UIC, the rest of us more recently as fellow Oak Park parents, and we cannot think of anyone more qualified. Jung has a deep knowledge of K-12 education from elementary to high school, as well as an everyday understanding from her experiences as a teacher, literacy specialist, education professor, and parent of two children currently in D97 at Lincoln Elementary. In particular Jung has a deep concern for racial justice and addressing the inequities that unfortunately persist in our K-12 education system, which is one of her motivating factors to run for the D97 school board. Her work includes advocating for a racially diverse teaching staff, as well as for more diverse representation in youth literature, and she will bring an important perspective as a woman of color (and particularly an Asian American) not currently well-represented in Oak Park

leadership. She and her husband Erik are very active in Oak Park and can always be found at local events around town as well as engaging with others by volunteering at their church, as an AYSO soccer coach, with running groups, and with various citizen causes. Jung is a collaborative leader, exemplified by her running alongside Cheree Moore to complement each other’s expertise in service to D97. Jung Kim works with K-12 teachers and related educational issues every day, they are part of who she is, and her combination of qualifications, experiences, and perspectives will benefit D97 in many ways. If you care about our children’s quality education and support racial equity, vote Jung Kim (and Cheree Moore!) for the D97 school board.

Corinne Kodama, Richard Kodama, Karen Su, Priscilla Perkins, Jen Purrenhage, Jackie Libert Oak Park

Independence from influence defines Martire A recent letter to the editor of this paper tried to question the independence of Ralph Martire — who is a candidate for the OPRF High school District 200 school board — and the think tank he works for, the Center for Tax and Budget Accountability (CTBA) because CTBA receives some funding from unions. Nothing could be further from the truth. I know firsthand that funders of CTBA — which, by the way, include the management side of education that negotiates across the table from unions, as well as universities and good government foundations — have no say in the organization’s work product or policy recommendations. Indeed Ralph himself and the CTBA are valued by decision-makers in both the Republican and Democratic par-

ties for their independence from influence and credibility on substance. Ralph’s credibility, independence and focus on using evidence-based best practices to craft policy reforms are, in fact, why he was appointed to serve on Republican Governor Rauner’s School Funding Reform Commission and the federal Excellence and Equity in Education Commission under Democratic President Obama. This is why I hope you will join me in supporting Ralph Martire for the D200 board. His independence and valuable expertise in designing evidence-based approaches to education reforms will help D200 create a truly excellent and equitable experience for all students.

David Orr

Former Cook County clerk

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Taglia: always prepared

Harris is ‘all in’ for Oak Park

I am pleased that Jim Taglia decided to run for Oak Park village trustee. Jim provided outstanding service as an Oak Park Township trustee, 2011-17, during my tenure as the elected township supervisor. My experience is that Jim: ■ Was always well prepared for board meetings, ■ Served as the most informed member on financial matters, ■ Was the most vocal on the general need for property tax restraint, and ■ Was always a voice of reason and consensus building. Jim deeply believed in the human services mission of the township. A particularly notable example was his strong advocacy for Narcan availability for opioid overdose, helping convince the village to require that police carry it for life-saving use. Now as a sitting village trustee in the larger arena of village-wide issues, Jim has maintained his record of strong preparation, openness to diverse views, and well-reasoned decision-making for the overall good of the village. My wife, Mena, and I highly recommend him for your vote on April 2.

We have been impressed with Christian Harris and his dedication to our community ever since we met him at a meeting of the Oak Park Homelessness Coalition several years ago. Christian is a thoughtful, engaged listener and speaker and has been involved in many organizations, committees and boards throughout the village since moving back after college in 2009. We supported his candidacy for the Oak Park Library Board several years ago and are now supporting him for trustee for the Oak Park Village Board. He would bring to the village board new perspectives — those of a young person, an African American, a renter, and a business owner. As a member and treasurer of the North Avenue business district, he believes in working hard to grow businesses, supports affordable housing, and is dedicated to curbing our ever-growing taxes. Christian is a lifelong Oak Parker who realizes that Oak Park is what it is today because of the efforts of many over the years. He wants to continue this legacy and is dedicated to keeping Oak Park a community that works for everyone. His campaign slogan is “All in for Oak Park!” and he is that — willing to work for all. We will be voting for Christian Harris for Oak Park Village Trustee, and we hope you will do the same.

Oak Park

David & Mena Boulanger

Janet and Bob Haisman

Wednesday Journal, March 20, 2019

Gates, a collaborative candidate for the parks At my age, I am driven toward candidates who are best positioned to achieve the greatest degree of progress on service to children, families and community in the shortest amount of time, within a context of fiscal sensibility. So I was elated to see Jim Gates, a retired teacher and former two-term board member of District 97, run for the Park District of Oak Park board. I first encountered Jim in 2012 when D97 and the park district were crafting a collaboration to build turf fields at Julian and Brooks middle schools. Jim and I were dispirited watching kids sit on the sidelines before school, after school and during lunch periods when our “grass” fields were covered in puddles and mud. My own children didn’t like it either! Thanks to collaborative minds at both board tables, the addition of turf fields has exponentially increased physical activity and fun among our students now and

ATTENTION OAK PARK, RIVER FOREST & PROVISO RESIDENTS:

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well into the future, while concurrently reducing field maintenance costs. And guess what happens when kids have fun at school? Students achieve better grades and attendance! The middle-school turf project is an excellent example of elected leaders pooling taxing body resources, trust, and private donations for the purpose of maximizing impact on the long-term health and vibrancy of our community. Let’s remember, park district facilities are not just a place where people play; the park district is a place to develop healthy lifestyles, new skills, friendships, and unity within our community. As you contemplate the upcoming election, I encourage you to look at Jim Gates to serve as a park district commissioner because his skill set, mindset, experience and passion for service make him an ideal candidate to lead the park district into the future.

Get a new lease on Get Get aanew new Get new renters Get aanew lease lease on on lease on insurance. lease on renters renters renters renters insurance. insurance. insurance. Did you know your landlord’s insurance. insurance only covers the

Mary Jo Schuler

Oak Park

building? I’m here to help DidDid you know your landlord’s Did you you know know your your landlord’s landlord’s protect your stuff. insurance only covers the thethe insurance insurance only only covers covers LET’S TALK TODAY. building? I’m here to help building? building? I’mI’m here here to help to help protect your stuff. protect protect your your stuff. stuff. LET’S TALK TODAY. LET’S LET’S TALK TALK TODAY. TODAY.

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Wednesday Journal, March 20, 2019

V I E W P O I N T S

Exceptional candidates for extraordinary times

In the upcoming April 2 elections, three local candidates need and deserve your support: Steve Lefko for River Forest District 90 and Fred Arkin and Sara Spivy for Oak Park and River Forest High School District 200. These candidates are vying for positions on boards undergoing dramatic changes, and their qualifications and backgrounds make them particularly important voices for our communities. Fred Arkin and Sara Spivy are incumbents. D200 faces equity issues highlighted in America to Me, facilities issues raised by the Imagine OPRF plan, and finance issues resulting from a growing student population in communities already groaning under the weight of high taxes. Fred, a lifelong community member who has been active at the school for many decades, understands the history and traditions of the school like few others. His local background, combined with exceptional common sense and business acumen, serves as a critical stabilizing force on the board. A lawyer, a future Huskie parent, and a passionate community leader, Sara’s sense of social justice has been the hallmark of her service. Together, Sara and Fred have exceptional accomplishments, including hiring a superintendent committed to equity, implementing a gender equity policy, drafting a racial equity policy, beginning a capital

campaign to support facility needs, and negotiating a groundbreaking collective bargaining agreement with the Faculty Senate, all the while holding the tax levy to its 2013 level and thereby abating over $32 million of property tax authority. Fred and Sara have served our communities well, and we need to return them to the District 200 Board. Steve Lefko is running to fill the last two years of a term on the River Forest D90 Board of Education. D90 is considering dramatic changes to curriculum and scheduling. Whether such changes are advisable in such a high-performing district is subject to debate. Outgoing board president Ralph Martire spearheaded these changes, and his expertise in educational policy is comforting. However, the debate over these changes has been too often characterized by consensus, raising the prospect that group-think will forestall the critical analysis needed to properly evaluate the wisdom of this approach. Steve Lefko is a stunningly intelligent, informed, proactive, and outspoken neighbor. Steve will make sure the D90 board considers the hard questions necessary to keep our schools on a course consistent with the values of River Forest. I encourage all to get out and vote for these exceptional candidates.

John Phelan

River Forest

Martire’s leadership will benefit D200 immensely When I was elected to the River Forest District 90 school board in 2017, my father, William Troyer Jr., an Oak Park resident since 1974, was very enthusiastic about it because it meant I would have the opportunity to serve with Ralph Martire, who was then in the middle of his second term. “You will learn so much from Ralph,” my father said. My dad, a retired physician and hospital administrator who’d been an economics major in college, had several opportunities over the years to hear Ralph speak about the state pension crisis and education funding. He really admires Ralph’s professional work. My dad was right. I have learned a lot from Ralph and D90 has benefitted immensely from his leadership. During Ralph’s tenure, D90 initiated the creation and implementation of plans to address its opportunity gap. This initiative includes regular review of the plans, professional development support, and strategies to effectively measure results. We have done this all while being

very mindful of all community stakeholders and the considerable tax burden in our community. The D90 board also pushed for and implemented more resident-friendly financial reporting and facilities status reporting. This means we now have reports that show us at a glance, like a dashboard, our financial outlook and the facility obligations we having coming up on the horizon. We have also committed to increased community engagement by holding four “town hall” format meetings each year. As a board, we have even won official recognition for these efforts. Oak Park and River Forest voters, please support Ralph Martire for the D200 Board of Education. I know that if he gets the opportunity to serve D200, he will bring leadership and process improvement to help the district move in a more thoughtful, results-oriented and fiscally responsible direction.

Judy Troyer Deogracias

OPRF class of 1987 Proud River Forest resident since 2005

OAKPARK.COM | RIVERFOREST.COM

Why vote for Harris for the OPRF school board?

There are many great reasons to vote for Gina Harris for the District 200 Board of Education. I’ll name five: 1) A passion for teaching. She cares deeply about her students and values their voice. She provides professional development to other teachers and is a respected union leader. The D200 school board needs the perspective of an experienced teacher. With a wealth of knowledge about our schools, teachers are key to any serious transformation. 2) A deep commitment to racial justice. She takes leadership and action to advance equity. For the past two years, while serving on the school board’s Culture, Climate, and Behavior subcommittee, she has advocated for making OPRF more welcoming, affirming, and fair for all students. As a woman of color who graduated from OPRF, and whose daughter recently graduated from OPRF, she is keenly aware of the persistent patterns of racial inequities and is deeply committed to changing them. 3) An understanding of financial stewardship. With an MBA and 15 years in the corporate sector, she has experience as a fiduciary and has managed large budgets. She’s also a single mom who raised two daughters in River Forest and Oak Park and knows the realities of rising taxes, housing and college costs.

4) A bridge-builder. She is a facilitator in restorative practices and unity. Last fall, I got to work alongside Gina with a team of volunteer facilitators who led hundreds of residents in community dialogues following the American to Me viewings at the high school. She helped create the much-needed space for deep listening and learning. 5) A huge heart. She’s the real deal — a genuinely down-to-earth, compassionate and loving human being who believes in, and brings out, the best in people. One thing worth clarifying is that Gina is an elementary school teacher in Maywood, not a high school teacher at Oak Park and River Forest. Each school district has a unique and totally separate contract with its local teachers union. She won’t be “sitting on both sides of the table” in contract negotiations, as some have falsely suggested. Her candidacy is completely legal and there’s no conflict of interest. Gina is a proud union member, just like many other public employees such as our police officers, firefighters, and others working the front lines of vital community services. Gina Harris has the solid skills, values, and leadership that D200 needs. Please give her your support and your vote.

Terry Keleher Oak Park

Taglia has been an exemplary trustee

As has been pointed out by several others in these pages over the past several weeks, Trustee James Taglia is a community leader of deep intelligence and deep compassion. I first got to know Jim when I was a village trustee and he was an Oak Park Township trustee. There, Jim applied his training as an accountant to the thankless task of crafting and approving shoestring budgets. Jim’s deeply caring nature led him to become a vocal and effective advocate for such progressive initiatives as equipping our police officers with the Narcan antidote to opioid overdoses, and raising the tobacco purchasing age to 21. When I had to unexpectedly vacate my seat on the Oak Park Village Board in February of 2017, I was concerned about who might be selected to serve the remainder of my term. Leaders who value substance over social media traffic are in short supply these days. So I was greatly relieved when I learned that Jim Taglia would be appointed to take my place. To the surprise of no one who knows him, Jim has turned out to be an exemplary village trustee.

At a time where concerns about Oak Park’s affordability are dominating the local debate, Jim understands local government finance — particularly the relationship between village expenditures and the property tax levy. He knows that the village is not going to nickel-and-dime its way to property tax relief, and that pressure on our property tax rolls will only be relieved through collaboration with other units of government. I know that diversity in our local government is a key issue this year. I was deeply concerned two years ago when the departures of Glenn Brewer and Peter Barber resulted in a village board without a single African-American member. That lack of representation is deeply problematic and bothers me still. I therefore understand the desire to ensure that people of color and also women are elected during this cycle. Fortunately, next month we will be filling three seats on the village board. I certainly plan to support the objective of a more diverse and inclusive board when I head to the polls.

Adam Salzman

Former Oak Park village trustee

V I E W P O I N T S

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Avalos for D90 school board

As River Forest residents, we are voting for Katie Avalos. Like many, we moved to River Forest for the schools and they have delivered. We, like Katie, want to build on this success and evolve to meet the needs of our students in an ever-changing world. Katie is dedicated to the greater good. She has worked to support individuals with developmental disabilities, to increase the number of women elected to public office, and to improve civic engagement in Chicago. As a graduate of Boston College, she has a strong academic background but also has high emotional intelligence which makes her a strong leader and collaborator. Her ability to understand what motivates others, relate in a positive manner and deliver on the increasing social emotional needs of our kids will be critical going forward. Her strong sense of integrity and commitment to understanding the facts is important. Over the past four years she has attended board of education meetings on a regular basis. She has witnessed the decision-making process and knows these decisions are not rushed but based on well-thought-out ideas made with teacher input and in consultation with experts like University of Illinois Chicago’s Metro Chicago Math Initiative, Silicon Valley Math Initiative, and CAST, a nonprofit dedicated to expanding opportunities through Universal Design for Learning. She asks questions, listens, and brings solutions that will enable excellence for all. Please vote for Katie Avalos for D90 school board on April 2.

Maggie Clancy, Lauren Behan, Rebecca Ehart River Forest

Wednesday Journal, March 20, 2019

Buchanan, an ideal candidate for OP trustee

Oak Park trustee candidate, Susan Buchanan M.D., should become a village trustee because of her integrity, values, approach to decision-making and her dreams for Oak Park. I came to know these traits as our paths crossed while working on Central American justice issues. She is a person committed to working for the well-being of others. In some ways, that encapsulates some of what is most important about Dr. Buchanan. Not only are her values focused on the well-being of others, but she is committed to making a difference. During this campaign, I have come to see how she is, for me, an ideal candidate. She has the integrity to state when she has a strong opinion on an issue and when she is still doing her research. Her values of equity for all and promoting racial and economic diversity throughout all of village life, not in just one domain, are aligned with the understanding that village board decisions have the capacity of working toward or diminishing that vision for Oak Park. Dr. Buchanan’s high priority for moving Oak Park toward environmental sustainability policies

and practices are essential for village long-term sustainability. Dr. Buchanan’s style of inductive decision-making is part of what I like most about her. When I have had the opportunity to attend meetings of a topic of high concern to me, she is already there. She values learning all sides and understanding what influences each perspective. Within that context, she can apply her values and administrative skills to make sound judgements. At the March 18 Village Board meeting, for instance, Dr. Buchanan clearly stated welcome options for a strong inclusionary zoning policy, a view honed by her recent research and responsiveness to village residents. As you approach the village of Oak Park trustee ballot, please vote for Susan Buchanan. With her integrity, values approach to decision-making, and action on her dreams for Oak Park, you’ll be glad you did.

Lois Thiessen Love Oak Park

Re-elect Fred Arkin to the D200 board Growing up and surviving Maywood was similar to going to war and returning home unharmed. I didn’t have many friends and the ones I did have were killed or sent to prison. It wasn’t until recently that I made the connection of how the sport of wrestling saved my life. When I was a kid, Maywood did not have a youth wrestling program so my father took me to Oak Park to wrestle for the Huskies. This is where I met Fred Arkin. Mr. Arkin had already been involved in growing the sport of wrestling through-

out the state of Illinois. He has been engaged in this type of work for 40 years. Equity cannot be just some Oak Park buzzword politicians use to hoodwink voters to vote for them during an election cycle. Fred has my vote because he has spent a lifetime with his boots on the ground side by side with black and brown families as we strive for equality.

Reggie Wright Oak Park

Cami can tell you the names of all of Mary’s grandchildren — in order, from youngest to oldest. As a Belmont Village caregiver, she’s passionate about enriching the lives of our residents through personal, skillful and thoughtful attention to every detail. From daily care to choosing the perfect birthday gift for the littlest grandchild, we’re there for our residents whenever — and however — they need us.

To us, they’re family.

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The Community Built for Life.® 708-848-7200 belmontvillage.com/oakpark

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3/4/19 2:25 PM

V I E W P O I N T S

Wednesday Journal, March 20, 2019

Pragmatic Solutions’ endorsements

OPRF Pragmatic Solutions wholeheartedly endorses Amanda Massie and Vic Guarino for the District 200 school board and Bridgett Baron and Cory Wesley for village of Oak Park trustee. All four are independent candidates who will be fiscally responsible, prioritizing needs, not wants, and accountable to taxpayers. Baron and Wesley will work to address the unsustainable rising rate of taxation in Oak Park, with the goal of making the village more affordable and maintaining its vibrant diversity. Through common-sense legislation and better decision-making, these goals are achievable. Massie and Guarino will assess needs versus wants with students and taxpayers in mind. They will advocate for educational excellence and equity for all students at Oak Park and River Forest High School, helping to implement and ensure accountability of the racial equity policy, and increasing board transparency. While OPRF Pragmatic Solutions isn’t endorsing a third D200 candidate, incumbent Fred Arkin has favorably differentiated himself from fellow incumbent Sara Dixon Spivy. At the Dec. 11 and Dec. 20 board meetings, he spoke out against pushing through the $65 million Imagine pool/PE complex now, while Spivy

remained stone silent, the only silent board member. Neither incumbent has expressed regret over their support of D200’s disingenuous marketing of the 2016 pool referendum, though both now say they regret attempting to bypass voters in 2015 to fund construction of a $37.5 million Olympic-size pool and demolish the garage. Also not endorsed are Ralph Martire and Gina Harris who pose a possible conflict of interest if elected to the board. They both have political and financial ties to the union that represents D200’s teachers. OPRF Pragmatic Solutions is a grassroots organization that has successfully advocated for fiscally responsible facility spending since 2015 and prioritizing efforts to improve academic outcomes for all students at D200. Please consider casting your votes for these candidates and visit their websites for more information: AmandaMassieD200.com, VicGuarinoD200.com, BridgettBaron.com and CoryWesley.com.

Dori Bernstein, Marty Bernstein, John Carney, Kitty Conklin, Jack Davidson, Bruce Kleinman, Maureen Kleinman, Mark Murphy, Jack Powers, Gina Sennello, Monica Sheehan, Doug Springer, Leslie Sutphen, Robert Zeh OPRF Pragmatic Solutions

O’Connell brings experience and expertise We are supporting Bob O’Connell for River Forest trustee in our upcoming village election. Bob brings extensive business experience, impressive expertise, and a dedication to having River Forest continue to grow and development as a wonderful community for current and future residents. Some highlights of Bob’s experience and expertise includes three major areas: ■ A demonstrable track record of fiduciary leadership on behalf of the village of River Forest. As chairperson of the village’s Economic Development Commission, Bob has exhibited strong leadership, engendered a spirit of successful teamwork, and brought a high level of real estate development experience and expertise to our village. Track record counts. ■ A body of professional expertise and experience that is crucial to building our village’s tax base through prudent commercial development. River Forest

has limited commercial zones. Our citizens will benefit from Bob’s 30 years of national real estate development on behalf of the McDonald’s Corporation. He knows “both sides of the desk,” and this experience and expertise will serve our community well in negotiations and collaborations with real estate developers, retailers, and other business entities. ■ Historical perspective along with a future vision. Bob has lifelong River Forest roots. He is committed to preserving and enhancing the tranquility and harmony of our village by joining our other trustees in navigating successfully the economic challenges that lie ahead. We have lived in the River Forest and Oak Park communities for over 35 years and are inspired by Bob’s candidacy and his vision for the future. Please join us in supporting Bob O’Connell for River Forest village trustee.

Jan Pyrce and Gary Kagan River Forest

OAKPARK.COM | RIVERFOREST.COM

Equity is Spivy’s core issue I highly recommend Sara Dixon Spivy to be reelected to the District 200 high school board. I have known/volunteered with Sara and the issues she champions for more than seven years. She is passionate, compassionate, hard-working, level-headed, and thorough in her thinking process. She has served on the D200 board for the past four years to achieve a robust educational experience for each individual student. In other words, equity is her core passion. Much has been accomplished during Sara’s four years on the board, including implementing progressive gender equity policy to protect transgender and non-binary students, beginning restorative justice training at all levels, founding the Tri-Board Equity Committee which makes recommendations to all three districts so there is K-12 alignment on equity initiatives; approving $32M in facilities improvements for ADA compliance, special ed spaces, and classroom upgrades; and creating a budget-neutral executive director of equity

and student success position. Sara is currently an assistant state’s attorney. Before that she was a Cook County assistant public defender for 15 years. She saw firsthand how inequities in our educational and judicial systems negatively impact the lives of many and, as a result, negatively affects us all. Also she has three children of color in Oak Park’s school system. Hence, her passion to achieve equity for all students. She clearly sees the big picture. While the board’s equity accomplishments over the past four years are noteworthy, Sara has no illusions about what still needs to be done and wants to continue to build on the progress already made. For starters, she wants to expand restorative justice practices, hire more faculty of color, and fund athletic facilities improvements through private donations. Vote for Sara Dixon Spivy to keep the ball rolling.

Myrna Lovejoy Oak Park

What Moore, Hickey and Davis bring to D90 I’ve had the great fortune to serve as president of the River Forest District 90 school board for the last four years, with some of the brightest, most dedicated people I’ve ever had the honor to know. Three of them, Rich Moore, Barb Hickey and Cal Davis are running for re-election. I urge everyone who cares about having excellent schools in our community to support each of them. To be clear: By excellent schools I mean schools that provide every student, from the most gifted to the most challenged, irrespective of race, gender or ethnicity, the type of learning environment and rigorous curriculum needed to thrive academically. During their time on the board, Rich, Barb and Cal have each made invaluable contributions to

serving the students who walk through the district’s doors. Unfortunately, word limitations prevent listing all they bring to the table. However, our community should know that: Rich has an exhaustive knowledge of educational best practices; Barb ensures all district initiatives include the crucial element of accountability; and Cal remains focused like a laser on having a cost/benefit analysis for every proposal. While they certainly don’t agree on everything, they share one thing: an unshakeable commitment to ensuring D90 schools remain numbered among the best in Illinois — and capable of serving every student’s needs.

Ralph Martire River Forest

O’Connell for RF village trustee We highly recommend that our friend and neighbor, Bob O’Connell, get your vote for River Forest village trustee on April 2. Bob has deep ties to our amazing village, as does his wife, Holly Economos. He is honest and of the highest integrity. And importantly, he will work hard on behalf of all residents in River Forest. In fact, he is already doing just that as chairman of the River Forest Economic Development Commission. Bob is highly qualified for the position of trustee, given his recent experience on the River Forest Economic Development Commission, his ongoing role on the Project REAP (Real Estate Apprentice Program Board of Directors for), as well as a 30year career in commercial real estate, with 25 of those years working for a Fortune 50 company. These qualifications will be necessary to have on the River Forest board as the village moves

forward with development of four large-scale commercial sites: Lake and Lathrop, North Avenue, Madison Avenue, Chicago & Harlem. It is imperative that the village take advantage of each and every opportunity to attract appropriate retail businesses and to enhance the vitality and sense of community that we now so very much enjoy. At the same time, we need those retail establishments to drive much-needed tax revenue to lessen our reliance on resident property taxes. Under Bob’s leadership, we believe these goals can be achieved, making River Forest an even better community in which to live, work, raise children and come together with friends and family.

Lisa & Rick Gillis

River Forest

V I E W P O I N T S

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‘Best practices’ will move D90 forward I am writing in support of the incumbent candidates for the District 90 school board — Cal Davis, Barb Hickey, and Rich Moore — and new candidate, Kathleen Avalos. But more generally, I am writing to express my support for the hard work, research, and analysis done by the current board, and the educators of D90 as a whole: the curriculum director, superintendent, principals, teachers, and all other staff. I am an educator (I teach students in law school) and a mom of four sons. As an educator, I rely on studies and investigations, and best practices nationwide. I think we can learn a lot from other communities and other states, and I believe that “best practices” are called that for

a reason. The D90 education team and the current board have done years of research on how to implement best practices within our community, and I place a lot of stock in what they have learned, thought about, and decided to do. Some of the other candidates running for school board suggest looking for answers within our community. To me, dismissing not only their research, but also national research, and asking River Forest to look exclusively at what we are doing in our village is both shortsighted and provincial. Let’s take a step forward instead of staying in place.

Sonia Bychkov Green River Forest

Wednesday Journal, March 20, 2019

Martire understands school policy and finance I enthusiastically support Ralph Martire for the District 200 high school board. Ralph served for eight years on the District 90 school board in River Forest; I have had the pleasure of serving with him for three of those years. During that time I saw Ralph’s effective and thoughtful leadership skills. He believes in good governance, evidence-based decisionmaking and complete transparency. In fact, two of his key initiatives were to 1) move a few of our board meetings to a town hall format and 2) hold a community “listening session.” Both of these allow community members to engage with board members and administrators in a more interactive way. Ralph brings significant experience in public policy and school finance and has a deep understanding of how to bring change to big

institutions. He was co-author and advocate of the new school funding formula for the state of Illinois — a process that required diligence and patience. Ralph’s work with the D90 Equity Committee would be an asset to D200. He is driven by an insistence on learning from best practices and on creating tangible and measurable goals. He was an integral part of creating the Tri-Board Equity Committee which facilitates broader collaboration across districts 90, 97 and 200. As the only River Forest resident currently running, Ralph would bring a needed voice to D200 — a school that is shared by two communities. He is well-positioned to serve that role.

Stacey Williams River Forest

O B I T U A R I E S

Rich Meyer, 78 Master facilitator

Richard E. Meyer, 78, died in Oak Park on March 13, 2019. He was born on April 25, 1940, on the family farm near Gaylord, Kansas, a few miles from where the song “Home on the Range” was composed. He loved his farm heritage and returned to Kansas regularly to visit his extended family. The first in his family to attend college, he went on to get two master’s degrees — in organizational development and group facilitation. He made Metropolitan Chicago his home for his entire adult life. His marriage to SanRICH MEYER dra (Sandy) Lee in 1971 gave him a life partner who shared his passions and goals. Their son, Matthew, remembers growing up in a home full of love and encouragement. His diverse career included student housing at the University of Illinois Medical Center, organizational consulting, and housing restoration. He ended his career as membership director at Unity Temple in Oak Park from 2001 to 2010. Abundantly talented in bringing people together to accomplish their goals, he never lost the sense of joy in creating teams of talented people to face issues in their lives and in society. He found even more joy in family, good food and drink, good theater and progressive political action. And he found peace surrounded by friends. He will be missed by many.

Memorials to Rich may be made to the Southern Poverty Law Center or Planned Parenthood. There will be a celebration of his life on April 28 at 3 p.m. at Unity Temple.

Richard Canapary, 65

TV co-host, animal lover Richard Canapary, 65, of Pahrump, Nevada and a former Oak Park resident, died suddenly on Oct. 10, 2018. Born in Brooklyn, New York to Robert and Anne on Sept. 19, 1953, the family moved to Oak Park when he 3. He graduated from Oak Park and River Forest High School, Triton College, and the University of Arizona. While in Tucson, he joined the Pima County Sheriff ’s Department, then enlisted in and proudly served in the Marine Corps Reserve where he earned the rank of sergeant. After receiving an honorable discharge, he returned

Everyone who remembers him to Illinois and got a broker’s liis asked to celebrate Rich’s life in cense and began working for Intheir own way. Raising a glass of land Real Estate. On weekends, their favorite drink in his memhe served with the Illinois Auxory would be quite appropriate. iliary Police. Rich Canapary is survived At Inland, he met Sandra Weyby his wife, Sandee; his mother, enberg, the girl he would marry. They did so in 1985 and shared Anne; his siblings, Mary Anne life together for 33 years. After Manley, Sue (Michael) Flanagan, Inland, he attended Heating and Jim (Linda) and Joanne (Greg) RICHARD Air Conditioning School and Stopka; his brother-in-law, Greg CANAPARY opened his own company. How(Gloria) Weyenberg; his nieces ever, his time spent in the Southand nephews, Brock (Kara), west was always on his mind; he loved the Jackie, Sean (Katie), Heather (Rev. Cathweather and the desert. In 1999, Sandee and erine), Bob, Jenny, Karen; and his grandRich moved to Pahrump, Nevada, where he niece, Clare. He was preceded in death by worked along with Sandee at TV Channels his father, Robert, and his nephew, Lucas. 30 and 62. He loved being a television co-host Visitation will be held on Saturday, March on the morning show and filling in on Swap 23 from 9:30 a.m. until Mass, 10:30 a.m., at Shop. A real ham in front of the camera, in River Forest’s St. Luke Church, 7600 Lake 2006, he, Sandee and others formed a group St., followed by private interment. called the “Nye County Gold Seekers.” On In lieu of flowers, the family appreciates Saturdays, they would travel to the old min- memorial donations to Friends of Strays ing town of Johnny and pan for gold. Fun Inc., P.O. Box 315, Princeton, IL 61356 or times except for the snakes. www.friendsofstraysshelter.org.

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Wednesday Journal, March 20, 2019

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RELIGION GUIDE Presbyterian

Check First.

First Congregational Church of Maywood

400 N. Fifth Avenue (1 block north of Lake St.) Come join us for Sunday Morning Worship at 11 am Pastor Elliot Wimbush will be preaching the message. Refreshments and fellowship follow the service. 708-344-6150 firstchurchofmaywood.org When you're looking for a place to worship the Lord, Check First.

You’re Invited to A Church for All Nations A Church Without Walls SERVICE LOCATION Forest Park Plaza 7600 W. Roosevelt Road Forest Park, IL 60130

William S. Winston Pastor

ELCA, Lutheran

Good Shepherd

Worshiping at 820 Ontario, Oak Park IL (First Baptist Church) 9:00 a.m.—Education Hour 10:30 a.m.—Worship

All are welcome. goodshepherdlc.org 708-848-4741

Lutheran—ELCA

United Lutheran Church

409 Greenfield Street (at Ridgeland Avenue) Oak Park Holy Communion with nursery care and children’s chapel each Sunday at 9:30 a.m.

Sunday Service 7AM, 9AM & 11:15AM Believer’s Walk of Faith Broadcast Schedule (Times in Central Standard Time) Television DAYSTAR (M-F)

3:30-4:00pm

Nationwide

WJYS-TV (M-F)

6:30-7:00am

Chicago, IL.

WCIU-TV (Sun.)

10:30-11:00am

Chicago, IL.

Word Network

10:30-11:00am

Nationwide

(M-F)

www.livingwd.org www.billwinston.org

West Suburban Temple Har Zion

1040 N. Harlem Avenue River Forest Meet our Rabbi, Adir Glick Pray, learn, and celebrate with our caring, progressive, egalitarian community. Interfaith families are welcome. Accredited Early Childhood Program Religious School for K thru 12 Daily Morning Minyan Weekly Shabbat Services Friday 6:30pm & Saturday 10:00am Affiliated with United Synagogue of Conservative Judaism 708.366.9000 www.wsthz.org

PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH

744 Fair Oaks Ave. Oak Park 386-4920 Sunday Schedule Christian Education for All Ages 9:00am Worship Service 10:00am

Child care available 9-11am

fairoakspres.org OAK PARK MEETING OF FRIENDS (Quakers) Meeting For Worship Sundays at 10:00 a.m. at Oak Park Art League 720 Chicago Ave., Oak Park Please call 708-445-8201 www.oakparkfriends.org

Roman Catholic

Ascension Catholic Church

www.unitedlutheranchurch.org

708/386-1576

(708) 697-5000 LIVE Webcast - 11:15AM Service

Fair Oaks

Lutheran-Independent

Grace Lutheran Church

7300 W. Division, River Forest David R. Lyle, Senior Pastor David W. Wegner, Assoc. Pastor Lauren Dow Wegner, Assoc. Pastor Sunday Worship, 8:30 & 11:00 a.m. Sunday School/Adult Ed. 9:45 a.m. Childcare Available

Grace Lutheran School

Preschool - 8th Grade Bill Koehne, Principal 366-6900, graceriverforest.org Lutheran-Missouri Synod

St. John Evangelical Lutheran Church

305 Circle Ave, Forest Park Sunday Worship, 9:30am Christian Education Hour 8:30am Wednesday Worship 7:00pm Wheelchair Access to Sanctuary Leonard Payton, Pastor Roney Riley, Assistant Pastor 708-366-3226 www.stjohnforestpark.org Methodist

First United Methodist Church of Oak Park

324 N. Oak Park Avenue 708-383-4983 www.firstUMCoakpark.org Sunday School for all Ages, 9am Sunday Worship, 10am Children’s Chapel during Worship Rev. Katherine Thomas Paisley, Pastor Professionally Staffed Nursery Fellowship Time after Worship

808 S. East Ave. 708/848-2703 www.ascensionoakpark.com Worship: Saturday Mass 5:00 pm Sunday Masses 7:30, 9:00, 11 am, 5:00 pm Sacrament of Reconciliation 4 pm Saturday Taize Prayer 7:30 pm First Fridays Feb.– Dec. & Jan. 1

Rev. James Hurlbert, Pastor

Roman Catholic

St. Edmund Catholic Church

188 South Oak Park Ave. Saturday Mass: 5:30 p.m. Sunday Masses: 9:00 & 11:00 a.m., 5:30 p.m. Weekday Mass: 8:30 a.m. M–F Holy Day Masses: As Announced Reconciliation: Saturday 4:15 p.m. Parish Office: 708-848-4417 Religious Ed Phone: 708-848-7220

St. Giles Family Mass Community

We welcome all to attend Sunday Mass at 10 a.m. on the St. Giles Parish campus on the second floor of the school gym, the southernmost building in the school complex at 1034 North Linden Avenue. Established in 1970, we are a laybased community within St. Giles Roman Catholic Parish. Our Mass is family-friendly. We encourage liturgically active toddlers. Children from 3 to 13 and young adults play meaningful parts in each Sunday liturgy. Together with the parish, we offer Catechesis of the Good Shepherd, a Montessori-based religious education program for children in grades K-8. For more information, go to http://www.stgilesparish.org/ family-mass-community or call Bob Wielgos at 708-288-2196.

Third Unitarian Church 10AM Sunday Forum 11AM Service Rev. Colleen Vahey thirdunitarianchurch.org (773) 626-9385 301 N. Mayfield, Chicago Committed to justice, not to a creed

Roman Catholic

St. Bernardine Catholic Church Harrison & Elgin, Forest Park

CELEBRATING OUR 107TH YEAR! Sat. Masses: 8:30am & 5:00pm SUNDAY MASSES: 8:00am & 10:30am 10:30 Mass-Daycare for all ages CCD Sun. 9am-10:15am Reconciliation: Sat. 9am & 4pm Weekday Masses: Monday–Thursday 6:30am Church Office: 708-366-0839 CCD: 708-366-3553 www.stbern.com Pastor: Fr. Stanislaw Kuca

Upcoming Religious Holidays

Mar 20-21 Purim Holi Naw-Rúz (New Year) 21 Apr 8 13-14 14

Judaism Hinduism Bahá’í, Zoroastrian Magha Puja Day Buddhism Vesak (Buddha Day) Buddhism Ram Navami Hinduism Palm Sunday Christianity)

To place a listing in the Religion Guide, call Mary Ellen: 708/613-3342

Wednesday Journal, March 20, 2019

OAKPARK.COM | RIVERFOREST.COM

LEGAL NOTICE

★ ★ ★

cookcountyclerk.com

★ ★ ★

OFFICIAL NOTICE OF ELECTION, CONTESTS, REFERENDA/QUESTIONS OF PUBLIC POLICY & POLLING PLACES AVISO OFICIAL DE ELECCIONES, CONTIENDAS ELECTORALES, REFERENDOS/CUESTIONES DE POLÍTICA PÚBLICA Y LUGARES DE VOTACIÓN OFFICIAL NOTICE IS HERBY GIVEN, by

Karen A. Yarbrough, Cook County Clerk that the Consolidated Election will be held in Suburban Cook County on:

Tuesday, April 2, 2019 Martes 2 de Abril 2019

The Consolidated Election will be held in election precincts under the jurisdiction of the Election Division of the Cook County Clerk's Office. La Elección consolidada se llevará a cabo en distritos electorales dentro de la jurisdicción de la División de Elecciones de la Oficina del Secretario del Condado de Cook.

The Polls for said Consolidated Election will be open from 6 a.m. to 7 p.m. Locations are subject to change as necessity requires. En dicha Elección consolidada se podrá votar entre las 6 a.m. y las 7 p.m. Los lugares de votación están sujetos a cambios según la necesidad.

At the Consolidated Election the voters will vote on the following contests and referenda questions. Referenda/Questions of Public Policy will be voted upon in those precincts of Cook County under the jurisdiction of the Cook County Clerk in which a Unit of Local Government has requested the County Clerk’s Office to place said referenda/questions of public policy on the ballot.

En la Elección consolidada, los votantes emitirán su voto en las siguientes contiendas electorales y preguntas de referendos. Los referendos/cuestiones de política pública serán votados en aquellos distritos electorales del Condado de Cook dentro de la jurisdicción del Secretario del Condado de Cook en los cuales una Unidad de gobierno local le haya solicitado a la Oficina del Secretario del Condado que incluya en la boleta dichos referendos/cuestiones de política pública. TOWNSHIP OF OAK PARK Village of Oak Park Village of Oak Park Oak Park Park District Oak Park School District 97 Oak Park & River Forest High School District 200 Triton Community College District 504

Village Trustee Library Trustee Commissioner Member of the Board of Education Member of the Board of Education Member of the Board of Trustees

Full 4-Year Term Full 4-Year Term Full 4-Year Term Full 4-Year Term Full 4-Year Term Full 6-Year Term

Vote for not more than Three Vote for not more than Three Vote for not more than Three Vote for not more than Four Vote for not more than Three Vote for not more than Three

OFFICIAL NOTICE OF POLLING PLACES The voting will be conducted at the following polling places for each of the aforesaid election precincts selected by the Cook County Clerk. Las votaciones tomaran lugar en cada de los antedichos precintos de elección seleccionados por el Cook County Clerk. Ward 8500001 8500002 8500003 8500004 8500005 8500006 8500007 8500008 8500009 8500010 8500011 8500012 8500013 8500014 8500015 8500016 8500017 8500018 8500019 8500020 8500021 8500022 8500023 8500024 8500025 8500026 8500027 8500028 8500029 8500030 8500031 8500032 8500033 8500034 8500035 8500036 8500037

Pct # 001 002 003 004 005 006 007 008 009 010 011 012 013 014 015 016 017 018 019 020 021 022 023 024 025 026 027 028 029 030 031 032 033 034 035 036 037

PP Name Address HATCH SCHOOL 1000 N RIDGELAND AVE ST GILES GLEESON BUILDING 1101 COLUMBIAN AVE ADELE H. MAZE LIBRARY 845 GUNDERSON AVE HORACE MANN SCHOOL 921 N KENILWORTH AVE HORACE MANN SCHOOL 921 N KENILWORTH AVE OAK PARK ARMS 408 S OAK PARK AVE HATCH SCHOOL 1000 N RIDGELAND AVE DOLE LEARNING CENTER 255 AUGUSTA ST OAK PARK ARMS 408 S OAK PARK AVE WHITTIER SCHOOL 715 N HARVEY AVE DOLE LEARNING CENTER 255 AUGUSTA ST OAK PARK ARMS 408 S OAK PARK AVE LONGFELLOW SCHOOL 715 HIGHLAND AVE ST GILES GLEESON BUILDING 1101 COLUMBIAN AVE J L HEDGES ADMINISTRATION OFFICE 218 MADISON ST ADELE H. MAZE LIBRARY 845 GUNDERSON AVE LINCOLN SCHOOL 1111 S GROVE AVE HOLMES SCHOOL 508 N KENILWORTH AVE MILLS PARK TOWER 1025 PLEASANT PL 19TH CENTURY CLUB 178 FOREST AVE PERCY JULIAN JUNIOR HIGH SCHOOL 416 S RIDGELAND AVE OAK PARK PUBLIC LIBRARY 834 LAKE ST OAK PARK PUBLIC LIBRARY 834 LAKE ST OAK PARK RIVER FOREST HIGH SCHOOL 201 N SCOVILLE AVE WASHINGTON IRVING ELEMENTARY SCHOOL 1125 S CUYLER AVE BEYE ELEMENTARY SCHOOL 230 N CUYLER AVE 1154 WISCONSIN AVE WEST CENTRAL CHURCH GWENDOLYN BROOKS MIDDLE SCHOOL 325 S KENILWORTH AVE WEST CENTRAL CHURCH 1154 WISCONSIN AVE HERITAGE HOUSE 201 LAKE ST OAK PARK CONSERVATORY 615 GARFIELD ST THE OAKS 114 S HUMPHREY AVE WASHINGTON IRVING ELEMENTARY SCHOOL 1125 S CUYLER AVE PERCY JULIAN JUNIOR HIGH SCHOOL 416 S RIDGELAND AVE OAK PARK TOWNSHIP 105 S OAK PARK AVE WEST CENTRAL CHURCH 1154 WISCONSIN AVE OAK PARK PUBLIC LIBRARY 834 LAKE ST

Township OAK PARK OAK PARK OAK PARK OAK PARK OAK PARK OAK PARK OAK PARK OAK PARK OAK PARK OAK PARK OAK PARK OAK PARK OAK PARK OAK PARK OAK PARK OAK PARK OAK PARK OAK PARK OAK PARK OAK PARK OAK PARK OAK PARK OAK PARK OAK PARK OAK PARK OAK PARK OAK PARK OAK PARK OAK PARK OAK PARK OAK PARK OAK PARK OAK PARK OAK PARK OAK PARK OAK PARK OAK PARK

HCap Access Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y

NOTE: The letter (N) following the polling place address denotes that the polling place itself is not accessible to the handicapped although other parts of the facility may be accessible. An exemption has been granted by the State Board of Elections and signs are posted indicating if the whole building is accessible or if there is a special entrance. NOTA: La letra (N) después de la dirección de un lugar de votación indica que el lugar de votación en sí mismo no es accesible para personas discapacitadas, aunque otras partes del edificio pueden ser accesibles. La Junta Electoral del Estado ha concedido una exención y hay carteles publicados que indican si todo el edificio es accesible o si hay una entrada especial.

Dated at Chicago, Illinois this 20th day of March 2019

Karen A. Yarbrough Cook County Clerk cookcountyclerk.com

Wednesday Journal, March 20, 2019

OAKPARK.COM | RIVERFOREST.COM New local ads this week

HOURS: 9:00 A.M.– 5:00 P.M. MON–FRI

WEDNESDAY

Classified

YOUR WEEKLY AD

REACHES SIX SUBURBAN COMMUNITIES: OAK PARK, RIVER FOREST, FOREST PARK, BROOKFIELD, RIVERSIDE, NORTH RIVERSIDE, AND PARTS OF CHICAGO

Deadline is Tuesday at 9:30 a.m.

Place your ad online anytime at: www.OakPark.com/Classified/

Please Check Your Ad: The publisher will not be responsible for more than one incorrect insertion. Wednesday Journal Classified must be notified before the second insertion. The newspaper reserves the right to edit or reject any advertisement.

BY PHONE: (708) 613-3333 | BY FAX: (708) 467-9066 | BY E-MAIL: CLASSIFIEDS@OAKPARK.COM | CLASSIFIEDS@RIVERFOREST.COM HELP WANTED

HELP WANTED

ROOMS FOR RENT

CITY RENTALS

2019 SUMMER STUDENT EMPLOYMENT The Village of Oak Park has openings for the 2019 Summer Seasonal Student Employment. Opportunities are in the Engineering, Water & Sewer, Streets Division, and Fleet & Forestry Divisions. Interested applicants must be 18 years old and actively enrolled in a post-secondary academic program. Applicants are encouraged to visit the Village of Oak Park’s website http://www.oakpark.us/. Interested and qualified applicants must complete a Village of Oak Park application.

CUSTOMER SERVICE REPRESENTATIVE The Village of Oak Park is seeking qualified candidates for the position of Part-time Customer Service Representative II. This position which performs a variety of responsible and difficult clerical work in support of the Development Customer Services Department; and to perform the more difficult and complex clerical duties including but not limited to parking permits, parking passes and vehicle stickers. 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 no later than March 20, 2019.

EXPERIENCED COOK WANTED Call first. Apply in person. Donny G’s 7308 W. North Ave. Elmwood Park 708-456-3644

SUMMER INTERNSHIP The Village of Oak Park has openings for the 2019 Summer Planning and/or Historic Preservation Internship, in the Development Customer Services department. Interested applicants must be current students in an undergraduate or graduate program in urban planning, historic preservation or related field. 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.

AUSTIN CLEAN ROOM With fridge, micro. Nr Oak Park, Super Walmart, Food 4 Less, bus, & Metra. $116/wk and up. 773-637-5957

REMODELED 2BR & 3BR Beautifully remodeled 2 & 3 bdrm apts in quiet, clean & maintained bldgs. 933 N. Leamington St., & 5256 W. Fulton: $825-$1200 (Sect 8 welcome!). Apts. incld hrdwod, ceramic & new carpet. On-site laundry appliances incld. Credit/bkgrnd ck req’d. Call 708-307-8178 for a private showing.

Large Sunny Room with fridge & microwave. Near Green line, bus, Oak Park, 24 hour desk, parking lot. $101.00 week & up. New Mgmt. 773-378-8888

OAK PARK SPACE FOR RENT Massage rooms for rent. Looking for Licensed Massage Therapist & Licensed Esthetician. Must have state licensed & carry own liability insurance. $500 a month. 312-203-1276.

COMMUNITY RELEATIONS INTERN The Village of Oak Park is seeking qualified candidates for the position of Community Relations Intern in the Community Relations Department. This is a seasonal position will provide assistance to the Community Relations Department provides intake and referral services for residents to community resources, assists in investigations of landlord/ tenant complaints, etc. Applicants are encouraged to visit the Village of Oak Park’s website http:// www.oakpark.us/. Interested and qualified applicants must complete a Village of Oak Park application no later than March 22, 2019. PART TIME HELP WANTED Part time clerical help needed in Broadview office 2 days a week. Will train right individual for Physician billing and collections. Computer skills required. Call 708 483-8496 for interview.

ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH INTERN The Village of Oak Park is seeking qualified candidates for the position of Environmental Health Intern in the Health Department. This fulltime seasonal position will provide assistance to the Environmental Health Practitioners in the inspection and local businesses, homes and other establishments to enforce state and local laws and ordinances related to public Health safety; to respond and resolve citizen complaints regarding nuisances and reported epidemics. . Applicants are encouraged to visit the Village of Oak Park’s website http://www.oakpark.us/. Interested and qualified applicants must complete a Village of Oak Park application no later than April 5, 2019.

ACCOUNTING CLERK Responsibilities: Qualifications: • Accounting duties • Previous experience in accounting, finance, or other related fields • Process invoices accurately and timely • High level of accuracy in data entry skills • Check the accuracy of business transactions • Ability to prioritize and multitask • Perform data entry and adminis• Strong organizational skills trative duties • Deadline and detail-oriented • Preparation of payable checks • Proficient in Microsoft Excel • Posting of checks and ACH • Proficient in QuickBooks payments Benefits: • Create, edit and update spreadMedical, Vision, Dental, Life Insursheets in excel ance, Short-term and Long-term • Daily, weekly and monthly disability and retirement plans. reporting Candidates will be tested on all skillset. Qualified Candidates should send their resumes and salary requirements to job.post.chicago@gmail.com BOOKKEEPER Responsibilities: Qualifications: • Bookkeeping duties • 2+ years Previous experience in accounting, finance, or other • Obtain primary financial data for related fields accounting records • Fundamental knowledge of • Process invoices accurately and GAAP timely • High level of accuracy in data • Check the accuracy of business entry skills transactions • Ability to prioritize and multitask • Perform data entry and administrative duties • Strong organizational skills • Preparation of payable checks • Deadline and detail-oriented • Auditing as needed • Proficient in Microsoft Excel • Posting of checks • Proficient in QuickBooks • Create, edit and update spreadBenefits: sheets in excel Medical, Vision, Dental, Life Insur• Create and manage Purchase ance, Short-term and Long-term Orders disability and retirement plans. • Daily, weekly and monthly reporting Candidates will be tested on all skillset. Qualified Candidates should send their resumes and salary requirements to job.post.chicago@gmail.com

International Consultant (Mercer Health & Benefits LLC–Chicago, IL): Provide client-ready results & communications for review by senior international consultants. Req’ts: Bach’s deg or foreign equiv in Global Mgmt, Mathe, Stats, Act’l Sci, or rel + 3 yrs of exp in job offd or rel. Must have 3 yrs of exp: planning & dsgng financial funding arrangement to employers with international operations; dvlpg test & total rewards strategy & governance model; conducting merger & acquisition multi-country due diligence & post-deal integration; global benefits benchmarking including health, accident, life, disability, perqs & allowances, leave practice & wellness prgms; researching & determining relevant benchmarking criteria & method; project mgmt within internal HR & relevant project process; reviewing & managing mobility prgms including insured mobility plans, relocation, tax equalization, & culture immersion; & reviewing site selection & country start up. Alt, the employer will accept a Master’s deg or foreign equiv in a stated field + 1 yr of exp in the above. Any suitable combo of edu, training, or exp is acceptable.MMC invites applicants to submit resumes online at http:// www.mmc.com/careers/mmc.php using Keyword # R_050271. EOE. Lead Software Test Engineer sought by Enova Financial Holdings, LLC in Chicago, IL to create quality software and contribute to creating a solid, stable, and flexible service-oriented infrastructure. Apply at jobpostingtoday.com, ref 99135. PART-TIME COMMUNITY SERVICE COORDINATOR The Village of Oak Park is seeking qualified candidates for the position of Part-Time Community Service Coordinator in the Adjudication Department. This person monitors individuals who have been ordered to provide community service in the Village, coordinates with organizations that provide community service opportunities, etc. Applicants are encouraged to visit the Village of Oak Park’s website http://www.oakpark.us/. Interested and qualified applicants must complete a Village of Oak Park application no later than March 22, 2019. SEASONAL FARMERS’ MARKET ASSISTANT The Village of Oak Park is seeking qualified candidates for the position of Seasonal Farmers’ Market Assistant in the Health Department. This position will provide administrative support to the Farmers’ Market Manager to allow growers and producers of food to sell directly to the public within established guidelines. This position requires work in inclement weather conditions; some heavy lifting of up to 50 pounds; walking or standing for sustained periods of time. 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. Open until filled

SUBURBAN RENTALS BASEMENT APARTMENT AVAILABLE APRIL 1 2BR, large living room, dining area, kitchen & bath. Incl: garage, all util., use of washer/dryer, ATT Uverse unltd internet. Steps from Blue Line, buses. Close to schools, playgrounds, swimming pool. NOTE: Non-smoker. Small dog or cat ok. Call Hatsumi 708-515-3859. SOUTH OAK PARK APT Well lit, spacious 3 bedroom apartment in south Oak Park. The space has re-finished hardwood floors and an updated kitchen. Third bedroom has an attached sun room. Backyard is fenced in. Walking distance from CTA Blue line and Lincoln Elementary School. Rent including utilities, except electricity, and one garage parking spot is $1900/mo. Requires one month security deposit on signing lease. Available now. Call 708-359-9396 or Email haddymaddela@gmail.com.

CITY RENTALS AUSTIN VILLAGE APARTMENT 5937 W MIDWAY PKWY Clean 1BR apt, 1/2 blk from OP Green Line & shops. 3rd flr. $785/ mo. Heat not included. 708-383-9223 DELUXE GARDEN APT 5955 W HURON Large 2BR, 4 room apt. Newly decorated. Near West Suburban Hospital. Near all public trans. Rent includes all util. plus laundry facilities avail. $1050/mo. Call 773-637-8677 for appt.

SUBURBAN RENTALS

M&M property management, inc.

708-386-7355 • www.mmpropmgt.com 649 Madison Street, Oak Park Contact us for a complete list of available rentals throughout Oak Park and Forest Park.

Apartment listings updated daily at:

Find your new apartment this Saturday from 10 am – 4pm at 35 Chicago Avenue. Or call us toll free at 1-833-440-0665 for an appointment. OakPark.com | RiverForest.com

SPACE FOR RENT

OFFICE SPACE FOR RENT Forest Park

7740 Madison Street 1200 sq. ft. of built-out office space with parking in front. $1,750 per month

Strand & Browne 708-488-0011 THERAPY OFFICES FOR RENT Therapy offices for rent in north Oak Park. Rehabbed building. Nicely furnished. Flexible leasing. Free parking; Free wifi; Secure building; Friendly colleagues providing referrals. Shared Waiting room; optional Conference room. Call or email with questions. Shown on Sundays. Lee 708.383.0729 drlmadden@ameritech.net

RUMMAGE SALES LaGrange Park

RUMMAGE SALE BROOKPARK SCHOOL 30TH & RAYMOND SAT. 3/23 7AM-1PM

Boy Scout Troop 90. Clothing, furniture, toys, computers, tools, & more!!!

GARAGE/YARD SALES Oak Park

SPRING GARAGE SALE 1167 S TAYLOR SAT 3/23 8AM TO 2PM

Many household items, kids clothing, baby toddler and young child. Some tools and garden items. Sports items as well as camping.

ITEMS FOR SALE CERTIFIED WIND SURFER Full Size, with cover and sail $125.00 WATER SKIS $25.00 708-488-8755 MUSIC Musical scores, piano trios, concertos, violin, cello and flute music. All 1/2 price or less. 708-488-8755 PILATES EQUIPMENT AeroPilates 5-Cord Reformer with Rounder and 2 DVDs. Hardly used. Asking $65.00. 773 577-7675

WANTED TO BUY WANTED MILITARY ITEMS: Helmets, medals, patches, uniforms, weapons, flags, photos, paperwork, Also toy soldiers-lead plastic-other misc. toys. Call Uncle Gary 708-522-3400

CHILDREN’S DENTAL BRACES BOUTIQUE Our orthodontic practice is now open with a convenient location in downtown oak park. Call us at 708-613-5023 for a Complimentary consult for braces or Invisalign. We provide orthodontic services for kids and adults using the newest available technology. www.OakParkOrtho.com Lost & Found ads run free in Wednesday Classified. To place your ad, call 708-613-3342

NOVENAS NOVENA PRAYER TO THE BLESSED VIRGIN (NEVER KNOWN TO FAIL) OH, MOST BEAUTIFUL flower of Mt. Carmel, fruitful vine, splendor of heaven, Blessed Mother of the Son of God, Immaculate Virgin, assist me in my necessity. Oh, Star of the Sea, help me and show me, herein you are my mother. Oh, Holy Mary, Mother of God, Queen of Heaven and Earth. I humbly beseech you from the bottom of my heart to succor in my necessity (make request). There are none that can withstand your power. Oh, show me herein you are my mother. Oh, Mary, conceived without sin, pray for us who have recourse to thee (3 times). Holy Mary, I place this prayer in your hands (3 times). Say this prayer for three consecutive days and publish; your request will be granted. RB. NOVENA TO ST. JUDE O, Holy St. Jude, Apostle & Martyr, great in virtue & rich in miracle, near kinsman of Jesus Christ, faithful intercessor of all who invoke your special patronage in time of need. To you I have recourse from the depth of my heart & humbly beg to whom God had given such great power to come to my assistance. Help me in my present & urgent petition. In return, I promise to make your name known & cause you to be invoked. Say 3 Our Fathers, 3 Hail Mary’s & Glories for 9 consecutive days. Publication must be promised. St. Jude pray for us all who invoke your aid. Amen. This novena has never been known to fail. Thank you. rr

Wednesday Journal, March 20, 2019

OAKPARK.COM | RIVERFOREST.COM

CLASSIFIED

(708) 613-3333 â&#x20AC;˘ FAX: (708) 467-9066 â&#x20AC;˘ E-MAIL: CLASSIFIEDS@OAKPARK.COM | CLASSIFIEDS@RIVERFOREST.COM PLUMBING

ELECTRICAL Ceiling Fans Installed

A&A ELECTRIC

Let an American Veteran do your work

We make service calls! We fix any electrical problem and do small jobs Home Re-wiring â&#x20AC;˘ New Plugs & Switches Added New circuit breaker boxes â&#x20AC;˘ Code violations corrected Service upgrades,100-200 amp â&#x20AC;˘ Garage & A/C lines installed Fast Emergency Service | Residential â&#x20AC;˘ Commercial â&#x20AC;˘ Industrial Free Home Evaluations | Lic. â&#x20AC;˘ Bonded â&#x20AC;˘ Ins. â&#x20AC;˘ Low Rates â&#x20AC;˘ Free Est.

708-409-0988 â&#x20AC;˘ 708-738-3848

PUBLIC NOTICES Sr. Discounts â&#x20AC;˘ 30 Yrs. Exp

Servicing Oak Park â&#x20AC;˘ All surrounding suburbs â&#x20AC;˘ Chicago area

+++++++ + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + FURNACE REPAIR & TUNE-UPS + + + Appliance lines â&#x20AC;˘ Lightingâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;services â&#x20AC;˘ Trouble calls + + + Free Estimates â&#x20AC;˘ 10% Senior Discount + Lic & Insured Since 1986 708-612-4803 Good References + + + +++++++ + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + +

HUGHS HVAC & ELECTRIC

PETS While youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re away, your pets are okay . . . at home

cat calls

Oak Parkâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Original Pet Care Service â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Since 1986

Daily dog exercising Complete pet care in your home )PVTF TJUUJOH t 1MBOU DBSF Bonded References

524-1030

CLEANING Pamâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s A+ Cleaning Service

Jump into spring! Everything we touch turns to clean! For a detailed cleaning please call 708-937-9110

FLOORS KLIS FLOORING INC.

New hardwood flooring installation & Pergo. Sanding, re-finishing, staining. Low prices, insured. Call: 773-671-4996 www.klisflooring.com

GARAGE/GARAGE DOOR Our 73rd Year

Garage Doors &

Smart Door Openers

Sales & Service Free Estimates

(708) 652-9415 www.forestdoor.com

HANDYMAN CURT'S HANDYMAN SERVICE Drywall Repair â&#x20AC;˘ Painting Fans Installed â&#x20AC;˘ Carpentry Trim Gutter Cleaning â&#x20AC;˘ Window Repair

FREE ESTIMATES Excellent References No Job Too Small

708-488-9411 Sprout Some Extra Cash with a spring garage sale. Call our Classified Dept. to advertise: 708/613-3342

HANDYMAN %,%#42)#!, (!.$9-!. 3%26)#%3 !LL 4YPES OF (OME 2EPAIRS 2EPAIRS )NSTALLATIONS 0ROFESSIONAL 1UALITY 7ORK !T 2EASONABLE 0RICES 0ROMPT 3ERVICE 3MALL *OBS A 3PECIALTY

Mikeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Home Repair

A-All American

Plumbing & Sewer Service

FREE ESTIMATES Service in 1 Hour in REAL MostESTATE Cases PUBLIC NOTICES

All Work Guaranteed FOR SALE Lowest Prices Guaranteed FREE Video Inspection with Sewer Rodding /P +PC 5PP -BSHF t /P +PC 5PP 4NBMM Family Owned & Operated

t Lic. #0967

LANDSCAPING

HANDYMAN

WINDOWS

773-732-2263 Ask for John

HAULING BASEMENT CLEANING Appliances & Furniture Removal Pickup & Delivery. 708-848-9404

HEATING/AIR CONDITIONING HEATING AND APPLIANCE EXPERT Furnaces, Boilers and Space Heaters Refrigerators Ranges â&#x20AC;˘ Ovens Washer â&#x20AC;˘ Dryers Rodding Sewers Lic/Bonded 25 yrs experience

FREE SERVICE CALL WITH REPAIR AND SENIOR/VETERAN DISCOUNT.

708-785-2619 or 773-585-5000

BROKEN SASH CORDS?

708-243-0571

Fast & Neat Painting/Taping/Plaster Repair Low Cost

Roofing Repairs Concrete Repairs â&#x20AC;˘ Drywall All types of handiwork Call For Free Estimates

WINDOWS

Spring Clean-Up Aerating, Slit Seeding Bush Trimming, Lawn Maintenance Senior Discount brucelawns.com

PAINTING & DECORATING

CALL THE WINDOW MAN!

FAST RELIABLE SERVICE

(708) 452-8929

CLASSIC PAINTING 708.749.0011

Storm Windows â&#x20AC;&#x201C;

to protect your windows against weather, heat and cooling loss, cuts noise Most innovative interior and exterior storm frames, lenses and screens. Avoid expensive window replacement, easy do it yourself install. Direct from manufacturer, built in Chicago, see our factory video.

ÂŽ sales@stormsnaps.com Alpina Manufacturing, Chicago, IL (in Galewood) Visit our website for easy online ordering or call us for info:

1-800-915-2828 STORMSNAPS.COM free local delivery

Licensed

Insured

Ralph Grande Elmwood Park 708-452-8929

Serving Oak Park, River Forest, Forest Park & Riverside Since 1974

PUBLIC NOTICES PUBLIC NOTICE Riverside Township Budget and Appropriation Ordinance and Public Hearing Notice is hereby given to the legal voters of Riverside Township that the Town Board has drafted a Tentative Budget and Appropriation Ordinance for the 2019â&#x20AC;&#x201C;2020 fiscal year. Copies of said budget and ordinance are available for inspection during regular business hours, Monday through Wednesday, 9:00 a.m.to 3:00 p.m., Thursday to 5:00 p.m., Friday to 3:00 p.m., in the Township Office at 27 Riverside Road, Riverside, IL 60546. A hearing on the Budget and Ordinance will be held on Tuesday, April 9, 2019, at 5:45 p.m. in the Riverside Town Hall, 27 Riverside Road, Riverside, IL. Liane J. Blauw Clerk, Riverside Township March 18, 2019 Published in RB Landmark 3/20/2019

Attention! Homeimprovement pros! Reach the people making decisions. Advertise here. Call 708/613-3342

PublicNoticeIllinois.com PUBLIC NOTICES

VILLAGE OF OAK PARK, ILLINOIS HISTORIC PRESERVATION COMMISSION LEGAL NOTICE

BRUCE LAWN SERVICE

Drywall H Painting H Tile Plumbing H Electric H Floors Windows H Doors H Siding Ask Us What We Donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t Do

708-296-2060

Let the sun shine in... Public Notice: Your right to know

PLUMBING

PUBLIC NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that a public hearing will be held by the Village of Oak Park Historic Preservation Commission on Thursday, April 11, 2019 at 7:30 PM in the Council Chambers located in the Oak Park Village Hall, 123 Madison Street, Oak Park, Illinois on an application for a Certificate of Economic Hardship filed by Alan Rossell for the demolition of two residential buildings at 1014 and 1018 Pleasant Street, Oak Park, Illinois (P.I.N.s: 16-07-302-019-0000 and 16-07-302-018-0000), which are located in the Ridgeland-Oak Park Historic District. All interested persons will be given an opportunity to be heard at the public hearing. The public hearing is being held in accordance with the ordinances of the Village of Oak Park and the regulations of the Historic Preservation Commission. The public hearing may be continued by the Historic Preservation Commission to another date without further notice other than a motion to be entered upon the minutes of the hearing fixing the time and place of the date. The Historic Preservation Commission will take evidence and testimony presented by the applicant and any other interested parties concerning the granting or denial of the Certificate of Economic Hardship. For further information on this matter contact the Development Customer Services Department, Planning Division, Village of Oak Park, Village Hall, 123 Madison Street, Oak Park, Illinois during normal business hours in person, by telephone at (708) 358-5420 or by email historicpreservation@ oak-park.us. Published in Wednesday Journal 3/20/2019

PUBLIC NOTICES

PUBLIC NOTICE INVITATION FOR BID Mills Park Tower Unit 2E

PUBLIC NOTICE OAK PARK TOWNSHIP

Sealed proposals will be received by the Oak Park Housing Authority at 21 South Boulevard, Oak Park, II, 60302 until 2:00 p.m. local time on Tuesday, April 9, 2019 at which time they will be opened and read. The sealed bids will be received for the following project: Remodeling of apartment Unit 2E Mills Park Tower 1025 Pleasant Place, Oak Park, Illinois, including selective demolition, gypsum board partitions, doors and frames, ceramic tile flooring, cabinets, counter tops, toilet fixtures, toilet accessories, light fixtures, painting and other work described in the Bid Documents. Prospective bidders must obtain Bid Documents, which will be available at Heitzman Architects, 111 North Marion Street, Oak Park, IL 60301 telephone (708) 848-8844, or Imperial Reprographics and Supply, 823 South Oak Park A venue, Oak Park, IL 60304, telephone (708) 848-1030. Bidders are urged but not required to attend a pre-bid meeting at 9:00 a.m. on Tuesday, March 26, 2019 at 1025 Pleasant Place to familiarize themselves with the project. Bids must be in a sealed envelope and clearly marked with job being bid. The Oak Park Housing Authority reserves the right to award the contract in its best interests, to reject any or all proposals, to waive informalities in bidding, and to hold the three lowest proposals for a period of sixty (60) days after bid due date. This project is assisted with funds received from the United States Department of Housing and Urban Development and is subject to Federal Regulations including Fair Labor, Prevailing Wage and Equal Opportunity requirements. Bid Security in the amount of 5% of the bid is required. A Performance Bond will be required for the general contractor to whom the project is awarded if the contract sum exceeds $100,000. James R. King Director of Elderly and Disabled Housing (708) 306-1792 Published in Wednesday Journal 3/20/2019

PUBLIC NOTICE Notice is hereby given, pursuant to â&#x20AC;&#x153;An Act in relation to the use of an Assumed Business Name in the conduct or transaction of Business in the State,â&#x20AC;? as amended, that a certification was registered by the undersigned with the County Clerk of Cook County. Registration Number: Y19000779 on March 8, 2019. Under the Assumed Business Name of LIFE IS AN OCCASION EVENTS with the business located at: PO BOX 220856, CHICAGO, IL 60622. The true and real full name(s) and residence address of the owner(s)/ partner(s) is: MELISSA KIRK 1029 N KEYSTONE AVENUE CHICAGO, IL 60651

1. Welcome 2. Call to Order 3. Pledge of Allegiance 4. Election of Moderator 5. Oath of Moderator 6. Approval of Minutes from the last Annual Town Meeting 7. New Business 8. Township Reports 9. Setting the date for the next Annual Town Meeting 10. Adjournment

Published in Wednesday Journal 3/13, 3/20, 3/27/2019

Published in RB Landmark 3/20/2019

PUBLIC NOTICE Riverside Township Annual Town Meeting April 9, 2019

Starting a new business in 2019? Publish your assumed-name legal notice here. Call 708/613-3342

NOTICE OF ANNUAL TOWN MEETING NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN to the legal voters, residents of the Township of Oak Park, County of Cook, and State of Illinois, that the Annual Town Meeting of said Township, will take place on Tuesday, April 9, 2019, at the Oak Park Township Senior Services Center, 130 S. Oak Park Ave., in the Township of Oak Park, at the hour of 6:30 p.m., for the transaction of the business of the Township; and a Moderator having been elected, will proceed to hear and consider reports of officers, and decide on such measures as may, in pursuance of law, come before the meeting, following this agenda: I. Call to Order II. Pledge of Allegiance III. Procedures for Meeting IV. Supervisorâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Annual Financial Statements V. Township Year In Review VI. Election of Moderator VII. Resolutions to Come Before the Electors VII. Adjournment All interested citizens, groups, senior citizens and organizations representing the interests of senior citizens are encouraged to attend. Oak Park Township does not discriminate on the basis of handicapped status in the admission or access to, or employment in its programs or activities. Those needing special accommodations are asked to provide 48 hours notice. Given under my hand in the Town of Oak Park, County of Cook, State of Illinois, this 13th day of March, 2019. Gregory P. White Oak Park Township Clerk Published in Wednesday Journal 3/20/2019

PUBLIC NOTICE The Depot Exterior Paint Project Sealed written bids for the River Forest Park Districtâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s The Depot Exterior Paint Project shall be received until 10:00 am local time, May 2, 2019, at the River Forest Park District offices, 401 Thatcher Avenue, River Forest, at which time they will be publicly opened and read aloud. Beginning March 22, 2019, bid information may be obtained from the River Forest Park District website at www.rfparks.com or at the River Forest Park District offices, 401 Thatcher Ave, River Forest, between 8:30 pm and 4:30 pm. This is a State of Illinois/Cook County prevailing wage project with a certified payroll to be turned into the Park District. Any questions should be directed to Michael Sletten at 708-366-6660 or msletten@rfparks.com. Published in Wednesday Journal 3/20/2019

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Wednesday Journal, March 20, 2019

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REAL ESTATE FOR SALE

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF COOK COUNTY, ILLINOIS COUNTY DEPARTMENT– CHANCERY DIVISION OCWEN LOAN SERVICING, LLC Plaintiff, -v.CHICAGO TITLE LAND TRUST COMPANY, AS TRUSTEE UNDER THE PROVISIONS OF A TRUST AGREEMENT DATED THE 17TH DAY OF OCTOBER, 1997 KNOWN AS TRUST NUMBER 1104974, MARY JANE SCHENN, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA ACTING BY AND THROUGH THE SECRETARY OF HOUSING AND URBAN DEVELOPMENT Defendants 18 CH 02340 1140 WESLEY AVE. OAK PARK, IL 60304 NOTICE OF SALE PUBLIC NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale entered in the above cause on January 22, 2019, an agent for The Judicial Sales Corporation, will at 10:30 AM on April 23, 2019, at The Judicial Sales Corporation, One South Wacker Drive, CHICAGO, IL, 60606, sell at public auction to the highest bidder, as set forth below, the following described real estate: Commonly known as 1140 WESLEY AVE., OAK PARK, IL 60304 Property Index No. 16-18-416-0140000. The real estate is improved with a single family residence. The judgment amount was $282,590.46. Sale terms: 25% down of the highest bid by certified funds at the close of the sale payable to The Judicial Sales Corporation. No third party checks will be accepted. The balance, including the Judicial Sale fee for the Abandoned Residential Property Municipality Relief Fund, which is calculated on residential real estate at the rate of $1 for each $1,000 or fraction thereof of the amount paid by the purchaser not to exceed $300, in certified funds/or wire transfer, is due within twenty-four (24) hours. No fee shall be paid by the mortgagee acquiring the residential real estate pursuant

to its credit bid at the sale or by any mortgagee, judgment creditor, or other lienor acquiring the residential real estate whose rights in and to the residential real estate arose prior to the sale. The subject property is subject to general real estate taxes, special assessments, or special taxes levied against said real estate and is offered for sale without any representation as to quality or quantity of title and without recourse to Plaintiff and in “AS IS” condition. The sale is further subject to confirmation by the court. Upon payment in full of the amount bid, the purchaser will receive a Certificate of Sale that will entitle the purchaser to a deed to the real estate after confirmation of the sale. Where a sale of real estate is made to satisfy a lien prior to that of the United States, the United States shall have one year from the date of sale within which to redeem, except that with respect to a lien arising under the internal revenue laws the period shall be 120 days or the period allowable for redemption under State law, whichever is longer, and in any case in which, under the provisions of section 505 of the Housing Act of 1950, as amended (12 U.S.C. 1701k), and subsection (d) of section 3720 of title 38 of the United States Code, the right to redeem does not arise, there shall be no right of redemption. The property will NOT be open for inspection and plaintiff makes no representation as to the condition of the property. Prospective bidders are admonished to check the court file to verify all information. If this property is a condominium unit, the purchaser of the unit at the foreclosure sale, other than a mortgagee, shall pay the assessments and the legal fees required by The Condominium Property Act, 765 ILCS 605/9(g)(1) and (g)(4). If this property is a condominium unit which is part of a common interest community, the purchaser of the unit at the foreclosure sale other than a mortgagee shall pay the assessments required by The Condominium Property Act, 765 ILCS 605/ 18.5(g-1).

IF YOU ARE THE MORTGAGOR (HOMEOWNER), YOU HAVE THE RIGHT TO REMAIN IN POSSESSION FOR 30 DAYS AFTER ENTRY OF AN ORDER OF POSSESSION, IN ACCORDANCE WITH SECTION 15-1701(C) OF THE ILLINOIS MORTGAGE FORECLOSURE LAW. You will need a photo identification issued by a government agency (driver’s license, passport, etc.) in order to gain entry into our building and the foreclosure sale room in Cook County and the same identification for sales held at other county venues where The Judicial Sales Corporation conducts foreclosure sales. For information, contact Plaintiff’s attorney: HEAVNER, BEYERS & MIHLAR, LLC, 111 East Main Street, DECATUR, IL 62523, (217) 422-1719 Please refer to file number 2120-14605. If the sale is not confirmed for any reason, the Purchaser at the sale shall be entitled only to a return of the purchase price paid. The Purchaser shall have no further recourse against the Mortgagor, the Mortgagee or the Mortgagee’s attorney. THE JUDICIAL SALES CORPORATION One South Wacker Drive, 24th Floor, Chicago, IL 60606-4650 (312) 236-SALE You can also visit The Judicial Sales Corporation at www.tjsc.com for a 7 day status report of pending sales. HEAVNER, BEYERS & MIHLAR, LLC 111 East Main Street DECATUR, IL 62523 (217) 422-1719 Fax #: (217) 422-1754 CookPleadings@hsbattys.com Attorney File No. 2120-14605 Attorney Code. 40387 Case Number: 18 CH 02340 TJSC#: 39-470 NOTE: Pursuant to the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act, you are advised that Plaintiff’s attorney is deemed to be a debt collector attempting to collect a debt and any information obtained will be used for that purpose. I3111906

funds, balance, by certified funds, within 24 hours. No refunds. The property will NOT be open for inspection. For information call Sales Department at Plaintiff’s Attorney, Manley Deas Kochalski, LLC, One East Wacker Drive, Chicago, Illinois 60601. (614) 220-5611. 17-038322 F2 INTERCOUNTY JUDICIAL SALES CORPORATION Selling Officer, (312) 444-1122 I3115030

AVENUE, FOREST PARK, IL 60130 Property Index No. 15-13-401-019. The real estate is improved with a residence. Sale terms: 25% down of the highest bid by certified funds at the close of the sale payable to The Judicial Sales Corporation. No third party checks will be accepted. The balance, including the Judicial Sale fee for the Abandoned Residential Property Municipality Relief Fund, which is calculated on residential real estate at the rate of $1 for each $1,000 or fraction thereof of the amount paid by the purchaser not to exceed $300, in certified funds/or wire transfer, is due within twenty-four (24) hours. No fee shall be paid by the mortgagee acquiring the residential real estate pursuant to its credit bid at the sale or by any mortgagee, judgment creditor, or other lienor acquiring the residential real estate whose rights in and to the residential real estate arose prior to the sale. The subject property is subject to general real estate taxes, special assessments, or special taxes levied against said real estate and is offered for sale without any representation as to quality or quantity of title and without recourse to Plaintiff and in “AS IS” condition. The sale is further subject to confirmation by the court. Upon payment in full of the amount bid, the purchaser will receive a Certificate of Sale that will entitle the purchaser to a deed to the real estate after confirmation of the sale. The property will NOT be open for inspection and plaintiff makes no representation as to the condition of the property. Prospective bidders are admonished to check the court file to verify all information. If this property is a condominium unit, the purchaser of the unit at the foreclosure sale, other than a mortgagee, shall pay the assessments and the legal fees required by The Condominium Property Act, 765 ILCS 605/9(g)(1) and (g)(4). If this property is a condominium unit which is part of a common interest community, the purchaser of the unit at the foreclosure sale other than a mortgagee shall pay the assessments required by The Condominium Property Act, 765 ILCS 605/ 18.5(g-1). IF YOU ARE THE MORTGAGOR (HOMEOWNER), YOU HAVE THE RIGHT TO REMAIN IN POSSESSION FOR 30 DAYS AFTER ENTRY OF AN ORDER OF POSSESSION, IN ACCORDANCE WITH SECTION 15-1701(C) OF THE ILLINOIS MORTGAGE FORECLOSURE LAW. You will need a photo identification issued by a government agency (driver’s license, passport, etc.) in order to gain entry into our building and the foreclosure sale room in Cook County and the same identification for sales held at other county venues where The Judicial Sales Corporation conducts foreclosure sales. For information, examine the court file or contact Plaintiff’s attorney: CODILIS & ASSOCIATES, P.C., 15W030 NORTH FRONTAGE ROAD, SUITE 100, BURR RIDGE, IL 60527, (630) 794-9876 Please refer to file number 14-17-03859. THE JUDICIAL SALES CORPORATION One South Wacker Drive, 24th Floor, Chicago, IL 60606-4650 (312) 236-SALE You can also visit The Judicial Sales Corporation at www.tjsc.com for a 7 day status report of pending sales. CODILIS & ASSOCIATES, P.C. 15W030 NORTH FRONTAGE ROAD, SUITE 100

BURR RIDGE, IL 60527 (630) 794-5300 E-Mail: pleadings@il.cslegal.com Attorney File No. 14-17-03859 Attorney ARDC No. 00468002 Attorney Code. 21762 Case Number: 17 CH 004465 TJSC#: 39-491 NOTE: Pursuant to the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act, you are advised that Plaintiff’s attorney is deemed to be a debt collector attempting to collect a debt and any information obtained will be used for that purpose. I3114373

file to verify all information. If this property is a condominium unit, the purchaser of the unit at the foreclosure sale, other than a mortgagee, shall pay the assessments and the legal fees required by The Condominium Property Act, 765 ILCS 605/9(g)(1) and (g)(4). If this property is a condominium unit which is part of a common interest community, the purchaser of the unit at the foreclosure sale other than a mortgagee shall pay the assessments required by The Condominium Property Act, 765 ILCS 605/ 18.5(g-1). IF YOU ARE THE MORTGAGOR (HOMEOWNER), YOU HAVE THE RIGHT TO REMAIN IN POSSESSION FOR 30 DAYS AFTER ENTRY OF AN ORDER OF POSSESSION, IN ACCORDANCE WITH SECTION 15-1701(C) OF THE ILLINOIS MORTGAGE FORECLOSURE LAW. You will need a photo identification issued by a government agency (driver’s license, passport, etc.) in order to gain entry into our building and the foreclosure sale room in Cook County and the same identification for sales held at other county venues where The Judicial Sales Corporation conducts foreclosure sales. For information, examine the court file or contact Plaintiff’s attorney: CODILIS & ASSOCIATES, P.C., 15W030 NORTH FRONTAGE ROAD, SUITE 100, BURR RIDGE, IL 60527, (630) 794-9876 Please refer to file number 14-18-04360. THE JUDICIAL SALES CORPORATION One South Wacker Drive, 24th Floor, Chicago, IL 60606-4650 (312) 236-SALE You can also visit The Judicial Sales Corporation at www.tjsc.com for a 7 day status report of pending sales. CODILIS & ASSOCIATES, P.C. 15W030 NORTH FRONTAGE ROAD, SUITE 100 BURR RIDGE, IL 60527 (630) 794-5300 E-Mail: pleadings@il.cslegal.com Attorney File No. 14-18-04360 Attorney ARDC No. 00468002 Attorney Code. 21762 Case Number: 18 CH 05417 TJSC#: 39-187 NOTE: Pursuant to the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act, you are advised that Plaintiff’s attorney is deemed to be a debt collector attempting to collect a debt and any information obtained will be used for that purpose. I3112799

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IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF COOK COUNTY, ILLINOIS COUNTY DEPARTMENT– CHANCERY DIVISION FREEDOM MORTGAGE CORPORATION Plaintiff, vs. LAURA SALGADO; WILLIAM DURAN Defendants, 17 CH 15294 NOTICE OF SALE PUBLIC NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale entered in the above entitled cause Intercounty Judicial Sales Corporation will on Tuesday, April 23, 2019 at the hour of 11 a.m. in their office at 120 West Madison Street, Suite 718A, Chicago, Illinois, sell at public auction to the highest bidder for cash, as set forth below, the following described mortgaged real estate: P.I.N. 12-31-207-007-0000. Commonly known as 506 JEROME DRIVE, NORTHLAKE, IL 60164. 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

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF COOK COUNTY, ILLINOIS COUNTY DEPARTMENT– CHANCERY DIVISION NATIONSTAR MORTGAGE LLC DBA MR. COOPER; Plaintiff, vs. DANIEL RILEY; ACCUBANC MORTGAGE CORPORATION; UNKNOWN OWNERS AND NON RECORD CLAIMANTS; Defendants, 18 CH 10533 NOTICE OF SALE PUBLIC NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale entered in the above entitled cause Intercounty Judicial Sales Corporation will on Wednesday, April 24, 2019 at the hour of 11 a.m. in their office at 120 West Madison Street, Suite 718A, Chicago, Illinois, sell at public auction to the highest bidder for cash, as set forth below, the following described mortgaged real estate: P.I.N. 15-13-429-024-0000. Commonly known as 1125 Marengo Avenue, Forest Park, IL 60130. The mortgaged real estate is improved with a single family residence. If the subject mortgaged real estate is a unit of a common interest community, the purchaser of the unit other than a mortgagee shall pay the assessments required by subsection (g-1) of Section 18.5 of the Condominium Property Act. Sale terms: 10% down by certified funds, balance, by certified funds, within 24 hours. No refunds. The property will NOT be open for inspection. For information call Sales Department at Plaintiff’s Attorney, Manley Deas Kochalski, LLC, One East Wacker Drive, Chicago, Illinois 60601. (614) 220-5611. 18-037762 F2 INTERCOUNTY JUDICIAL SALES CORPORATION Selling Officer, (312) 444-1122 I3115051 IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF COOK COUNTY, ILLINOIS COUNTY DEPARTMENT– CHANCERY DIVISION MTGLQ INVESTORS, L.P. Plaintiff, -v.ANGELA FOSTER–WOODS, BARTHOLOMEW WOODS, STATE OF ILLINOIS–DEPARTMENT OF REVENUE Defendants 17 CH 004465 817 BELOIT AVENUE FOREST PARK, IL 60130 NOTICE OF SALE PUBLIC NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale entered in the above cause on January 17, 2019, an agent for The Judicial Sales Corporation, will at 10:30 AM on April 22, 2019, at The Judicial Sales Corporation, One South Wacker Drive, CHICAGO, IL, 60606, sell at public auction to the highest bidder, as set forth below, the following described real estate: Commonly known as 817 BELOIT

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF COOK COUNTY, ILLINOIS COUNTY DEPARTMENT– CHANCERY DIVISION WELLS FARGO BANK, N.A. SUCCESSOR BY MERGER TO WELLS FARGO BANK SOUTHWEST, N.A. F/K/A WACHOVIA MORTGAGE, FSB F/K/A WORLD SAVINGS BANK, FSB Plaintiff, -v.JOHN E. STROTH, VILLAGE OF OAK PARK, WELLS FARGO BANK, N.A. Defendants 18 CH 05417 520 N. OAK PARK AVENUE OAK PARK, IL 60302 NOTICE OF SALE PUBLIC NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale entered in the above cause on January 3, 2019, an agent for The Judicial Sales Corporation, will at 10:30 AM on April 5, 2019, at The Judicial Sales Corporation, One South Wacker Drive, CHICAGO, IL, 60606, sell at public auction to the highest bidder, as set forth below, the following described real estate: Commonly known as 520 N. OAK PARK AVENUE, OAK PARK, IL 60302 Property Index No. 16-06-419-006. The real estate is improved with a residence. Sale terms: 25% down of the highest bid by certified funds at the close of the sale payable to The Judicial Sales Corporation. No third party checks will be accepted. The balance, including the Judicial Sale fee for the Abandoned Residential Property Municipality Relief Fund, which is calculated on residential real estate at the rate of $1 for each $1,000 or fraction thereof of the amount paid by the purchaser not to exceed $300, in certified funds/or wire transfer, is due within twenty-four (24) hours. No fee shall be paid by the mortgagee acquiring the residential real estate pursuant to its credit bid at the sale or by any mortgagee, judgment creditor, or other lienor acquiring the residential real estate whose rights in and to the residential real estate arose prior to the sale. The subject property is subject to general real estate taxes, special assessments, or special taxes levied against said real estate and is offered for sale without any representation as to quality or quantity of title and without recourse to Plaintiff and in “AS IS” condition. The sale is further subject to confirmation by the court. Upon payment in full of the amount bid, the purchaser will receive a Certificate of Sale that will entitle the purchaser to a deed to the real estate after confirmation of the sale. The property will NOT be open for inspection and plaintiff makes no representation as to the condition of the property. Prospective bidders are admonished to check the court

EQUAL HOUSING OPPORTUNITY All real estate advertising in this newspaper is subject to the Fair Housing Act, which makes it illegal to advertise any preference, limitation or discrimination based on age, race, color, religion, sex, handicap, familial status or national origin, or intention to make any such preferences, limitations or discrimination. The Illinois Human Rights Act prohibits discrimination in the sale, rental or advertising of real estate based on factors in addition to those protected under federal law. This newspaper will not knowingly accept any advertising for real estate which is in violation of the law. All persons are hereby informed that all dwellings advertised are available on an equal-opportunity basis. To complain of discrimination, call HUD toll free at: 1-800-669-9777. Wednesday Journal • Landmark Forest Park Review

S P O R T S

OAKPARK.COM | RIVERFOREST.COM

Wednesday Journal, March 20, 2019

Trinity softball to play Small ball

New coach excited about opportunity to coach Blazers, work with assistants By MARTY FARMER Sports Editor

Kelly Small coached high school softball at Queen of Peace before the school closed two years ago. She takes over as Trinity’s head coach this spring. “It is an honor to coach at Queen of Peace’s sister school,” Small said about Trinity. “Attitude is the biggest attribute we are committed to working on. We are creating an atmosphere where we operate as one team and one program. The girls are asked to write team goals each year, and this year’s biggest goal is to be contenders.” The Blazers finished 14-15-2 with a 4-9 record in the Girls Catholic Athletic Conference. “The key to a successful season is the players believing

Trinity Blazers Head coach: Kelly Small Top players: Emely Martinez (Sr.), IF/OF; Rachel McGovern (Sr.), 1B; Bella Parravicini (Jr.), 3B; Nikki Romano (Jr.) C; Jess Hoffman (Soph.) P/1B/OF Newcomers: Danielle Hoffman (Fr.), P/SS; Meagan Murphy (Fr.), IF/OF Outlook: Fine, experienced coaching staff should help the players post a winning record this season.

in themselves,” she said. “The talent is here. We just have to put it together.” Senior Emely Martinez, a St. Xavier commit, is the team’s top player. She can impact games in a variety of ways as a standout utility player. “Emely has proven to be a force on the field and at the plate,” Small said. “Her intelligence and power as a hitter, combined with her speed on the bases, make her a valuable asset.” Senior first baseman Rachel McGovern and junior third baseman Bella Parravicini anchor the infield, while junior Nikki Romano is a terrific all-around catcher. Freshman Meagan Murphy, a utility player, is expected to see action all over the field. “Rachel’s power secures her spot in the middle of the order,” Small said. “Bella’s ability to read situations and execute in the field and at the plate make her a standout. Nikki has good chemistry with the pitchers and her attitude is that of a true leader.” Underclassmen sisters Jess and Danielle Hoffman, headline the pitching staff. Small is thrilled to be working with accomplished assistants Rosaria Cicchetti, Julie Fox and Trinity grad Gaby Parravicini. “Julie Fox and Rosaria Cicchetti are Hall of Fame GCAC coaches,” Small said. “Having the opportunity to step on the field with Cicchetti is an honor. She has played such an iconic role in the GCAC and the progression of girls softball. I look forward to learning from her expertise.”

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Senior Emely Martinez provides leadership and versatility for Trinity.

Fenwick water polo wins Lynch Classic Friars’ fast start in final puts away defending state champ Naperville Central

By MARTY FARMER Sports Editor

The Fenwick High School boys water polo team earned a measure of revenge against defending state champion Naperville Central in the title game of the 20th annual Dan Lynch Classic on Saturday, March 16 in Oak Park. The Lynch Classic featured 16 teams over the weekend, including six IHSA state finals qualifiers from 2018 and out-of-state powers Dr. Phillips from Orlando, Florida and Parkway West from Missouri. Thirty games were played during the three-day event. In the championship game, Fenwick scored four goals in the first quarter en route to an 8-5 win over Naperville Central. The victory secured the Friars’ first Lynch Classic title since 2014. Last season, Naperville Central defeated Fenwick 13-5 in the IHSA state final, hosted by Stevenson. In Saturday’s rematch, Payton Comstock led Fenwick with three goals, while Nate Fisher and Dan Bajda scored two goals apiece. Ramses Flores contributed three assists and goalie Manny Ruiz had eight saves. Cam Dougherty paced the Redhawks with

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The Friars’ Nate Fisher scored two goals in an 8-5 win over Naperville Central in the title game of the 20th annual Dan Lynch Classic on March 16. a pair of goals. Fenwick (6-0) opened its annual tourney by crushing crosstown opponent OPRF, 20-3.

The Friars dominated the action with six unanswered goals in both the first and third quarters to cruise past the Huskies.

Fisher (5 goals, 5 assists), Comstock (3 goals, 3 assists) and Dan (no relation) Lynch (3 goals, assist) powered the Friars’ relentless attack. Alex Figus (2 goals, 3 assists), Flores (2 goals, 2 assists), Pete Buinauskas (2 goals, 1 assist) and Caden Gierstorf (2 goals) also contributed for the victors. In other games at the Lynch Classic, Fenwick defeated Neuqua Valley 12-9 and Dr. Phillips 17-12. The Friars opened the season with a pair of home victories against St. Viator 19-6 and Loyola Academy12-9. In the latter, Fenwick dominated the Ramblers until a slight mental lapse late. “We were up 11-3 but let up our intensity in the final few minutes of the fourth quarter,” Fenwick coach Kyle Perry said. “It was a great early-season matchup. We are both poised to be among the top teams in the MCAC (Metro Catholic Aquatic Conference) this season.” Comstock finished with four goals and two assists, with Fisher and Lynch adding three goals apiece. Ruiz had five saves, including a penalty shot, in goal. Last season, Fenwick won the MCAC regular season title and Loyola claimed the conference tournament title.

Wednesday Journal, March 20, 2019

S P O R T S

OAKPARK.COM | RIVERFOREST.COM

HUSKIES

Reloaded roster from page 60 Fortunately, OPRF is a program that reloads rather than rebuilds. “Our goal is to become the best team of softball players and student-athletes that we can be,” said Kolbusz, “and win our last game of the season.” Winning their last game of the season obviously implies the Huskies’ annual goal remains bagging another state title. Although nationally-recognized players like Harris (Auburn) and Nelson (Northwestern) have moved on to play college softball, senior superstar Fiona Girardot is back to lead the Huskies this spring. The Wisconsin recruit is a 2019 preseason MaxPreps All-American, two-time all-state player and was regarded as the top sophomore in the country in 2017. Girardot, who slides over from second base to shortstop this year, hit .639 with 14 home runs, 19 doubles, 57 RBIs and 57 runs scored last season. “I’m going to continue to play hard and lead by good example,” Girardot said. “We’ll listen to our coaches as they have a lot of experience in girls softball.” The Huskies welcome back several other outstanding players this season. Senior center fielder Nellie Kamenitsa-Hale had a batting average of .360 with 39 runs scored last year. As one of the team’s captains, Kamenitsa sets the tone for OPRF with her tremendous speed, great defense and leadership. Senior outfielder Carli Tucci and sophomore Maddi Grant both hit for average and power last year to lengthen the Huskies’ formidable lineup. Tucci hit .326 with five home runs, 24 RBIs and 36 runs scored, while Grant batted .429 to go with four homers and 29 RBIs. Junior Kelly Cantrell (.375, 3 HR, 10 RBIs in 2018) has shown dramatic improvement according to Kolbusz. A good athlete who also plays basketball at OPRF, Cantrell’s skills are coming along nicely. “We have a solid core group of girls back this year as well as some new promising faces,” Girardot said. “We’re going to focus on getting better each game and pay attention to the fundamentals of the game.

OPRF Huskies Head coach: Mel Kolbusz Top players: Fiona Girardot (Sr.), SS; Nellie KamenitsaHale (Sr.) CF; Taylor Divello (Sr.), P; Carli Tucci (Sr.) OF; Maddi Grant (Soph.) Newcomers: Syndey Ross (Soph.), IF; Lucy Goodwin (Soph.), C; Sara Phelan (Jr.) OF Outlook: OPRF will contend for the conference title and possibly make another deep run in the state playoffs. Divello and Metzger will need to pitch well and the relatively new-look Huskies will need to develop chemistry as the season progresses.

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(Top) OPRF senior center fielder Nellie Kamenitsa-Hale is an all-conference player known for her speed, hitting and defense. (Above) Senior pitcher Taylor Divello won 12 games last season. Hopefully that will bring some success to our team.” Senior Taylor Divello is the team’s No. 1 pitcher. She went 12-3 last season. Sophomore Cassie Metzger (5-3 in 2018) will also see action in the circle for OPRF. “Taylor worked hard to improve from last year,” Kolbusz said. “Cassie is a hard worker and great student of the game.” Sophomore infielder Sydney Ross, junior

outfielder Sarah Phelan and sophomore catcher Lucy Goodwin are exciting newcomers to watch. Ross is a hard-hitting infielder that could be the team’s starting second baseman, while Phelan is a good hitter who also has an excellent arm and range defensively. Goodwin also provides solid defense behind the plate. In their season opener, March 14, the Huskies routed New Trier 20-3 in four in-

nings at Heritage Park in Wheeling. Divello allowed two runs and four hits and struck out seven to pick up the win. OPRF overwhelmed the Trevians with its power game as Goodwin and Ross each hit a three-run home run and Grant belted a pair of homers and drove in five runs. Girardot (2-for-3, 2 RBIs) and Divello (2-for-4, 2 RBIs) also led the scoring barrage. “We really work hard on our hitting and hope that will be a strong point for us,” Kolbusz said. “We need to work on blending the new players with the vets to form a cohesive team. The keys for our team are improving every day and consistent play.” The Huskies host Nazareth Academy on Monday, March 25, followed by a game at Mother McAuley on Wednesday, March 27. Both games start at 4:30 p.m.

Wednesday Journal, March 20, 2019

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Wednesday Journal, March 20, 2019

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SPORTS

Trinity softball to play Small ball 57

Fenwick water polo wins Lynch Classic 57

OPRF softball still among state’s best After disappointing sectional loss in 2018, Huskies return high-end talent

By MARTY FARMER

Sports Editor

uring his 27 years as the Oak Park and River Forest High School softball coach Mel Kolbusz has had the pleasure of managing many outstanding pitchers. Chardonnay Harris served as the Huskies’ ace during their run of backto-back Class 4A state titles in 2016 and 2017. After watching Harris dominate hitters during her brilliant career, Kolbusz watched York freshman pitcher Lauren Derkowski turn the tables on OPRF in the Class 4A Niles West Sectional final last year. The Michigan recruit tossed a twohitter with 13 strikeouts and hit a three-run homer as the Dukes defeated the Huskies 6-1 and ended the latter’s bid for a threepeat in state championships. “We knew [Derkowski] was a good pitcher,” Kolbusz said after the game. “She was on her game today and shut us down.” “We gave it a good effort today,” he added. “We just ran up against a really hot pitcher. York played the better game today and won. Congratulations to them.” OPRF finished 26-6 overall and 10-2 in the West Suburban Conference Silver Division last season. The Huskies lost a significant number of talented players to graduation last year, including standout starters Maeve Nelson, Olivia Glass and Annie Deamer-Nagle. Nelson was a four-time all-state player. Deamer-Nagle earned third-team all-state honors, while Glass was an all-conference catcher. See HUSKIES on page 58

File photo

OPRF senior shortstop Fiona Giradot is one of the premier players in the country. The 2019 preseason MaxPreps All-American hit .639 with 14 home runs and 57 RBIs last season.

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