WednesdayJournal_032917

T I M E TO V OT E ! 1 0 PAG E S O F L E T T E R S , page 3 9 -5 3

C O M P L E T E E L E C T I O N R E S U LT S T U E S DAY, AT O A K PA R K . C O M

JOURNAL W E D N E S D A Y

March 29, 2017 Vol. 35, No. 32 ONE DOLLAR

of Oak Park and River Forest

ELECTION

2017

@O @OakPark

Days away from election, ballot case still not resolved Court might still hear the case, but decision could follow Election Day

By TIMOTHY INKLEBARGER Staff Reporter

There’s less than a week left before the April 4 municipal election when Oak Parkers will choose their representatives for the village board, school board, library board, and others — but it’s still uncertain whether three candidates will remain on the ballot.

Five candidates are running for three open seats on the Oak Park Board Trustees and five more are running for the village clerk position; an unprecedented 10 candidates are running for the library board. It’s a stark contrast from the uncontested trustee race in 2015, when the three village trustee candidates — Adam Salzman, Bob Tucker and Andrea Button-Ott — all endorsed by the Village Manager Association (VMA), ran unopposed.

This election cycle’s been a tougher run for the nonprofit VMA, which vets and slates candidates for public office. For the first time in the organization’s history, it was unable to find enough candidates to complete a full slate. The organization, whose candidates have historically swept into office with little challenge, was also unable to secure a candidate to run against Village President Anan AbuSee ELECTION on page 14

WILLIAM CAMARGO/Staff Photographer

DIGITAL DANCER: Jason Huggins founder of Tapster Robotics at his new Oak Park location. Dance-bot, left, is a Tapster creation used to teach kids how to build robots.

Robots invade OP Art District Tapster sets up permanent home in rehabbed La Majada building

By TIMOTHY INKLEBARGER Staff Reporter

It’s been a couple of months since Oak Park’s sole robot manufacturing business set up shop in the Oak Park Arts District, 224 Harrison St., and the best part so far – the smell of hot apple pies baking in the oven.

That’s according to Jason Huggins, founder of Tapster Robotics Inc., who noted that the new studio is located next door to Happy Apple Pie Shop, which, like Tapster, opened in the newly renovated building within the last few months.

“We have the sweet scent of apple pie wafting through the rafters every day,” he said with a laugh.

Huggins, who is known for building the software package Selenium, which tests touchscreen applications, gained notoriety in 2013 for an art-project robot that played the video game Angry Birds.

See TAPSTER on page 15

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I N S I D E

R E P O R T

Unity Temple get $100K match for restoration If you haven’t been in downtown Oak Park lately, you might not have noticed that Unity Temple, 875 Lake St., has been undergoing a multi-million restoration of the building – inside and out.

Unity Temple – one of the signature achievements of famed architect and hometown hero Frank Lloyd Wright – just received a $100,000 match donation from the Tawani Foundation to help fund the effort.

That means that any donations received before Dec. 1, 2017 will be doubled by Tawani up to $100,000.

Heather T. Hutchison, executive director of the restoration foundation, said in an email that the foundation is more than halfway toward its $23 million fundraising goal but still has a long way to go.

“We hope this challenge match will inspire people to give,” she said. “UTRF continues to look to those in the surrounding communities, Chicago and well beyond, for charitable support.”

She said that although the restoration

project is almost finished – the building is set to reopen to the congregation on Sunday, June 11 – the project still has “a financial obligation that needs to be fulfilled.”

“We hope that once the public sees the glorious result and rebirth of Unity Temple, they will want to be a part of this masterful achievement,” Hutchison said.

Charitable gifts can be donated at www.utrf.org or by sending a check to Unity Temple Restoration Foundation, 1101 Lake St., Suite 212, Oak Park, Illinois, 60302.

WILLIAM CAMARGO/Staff Photographer

Digging in Officials at St. Vincent Ferrer Church in River Forest place shovels in the ground to mark construction of a new $2 million multipurpose hall on March 26.

Timothy Inklebarger

OPRF student projects going national

TIMOTHY INKLEBARGER/Staff

Michael Romain with his inaugural print edition of The Village Free Press.

Village Free press now in print!

Did you know Maywood has its own print newspaper called Village Free Press? Did you know it’s run by Wednesday Journal’s very own Michael Romain?

Do you think Romain takes a break when he’s done with those two responsibilities? If so, well think again because he’s also editor of Austin Weekly News.

We’re giving a huge shout out to Romain this week because of his success in seeing his dream come true with the very first print edition of Village Free Press.

The newspaper, which has been exclusively online for the last four years, will now also be published in a monthly print edition.

We asked the mild-mannered newspaperman for a quote and Romain sent us this: “This couldn’t have happened without the support of Wednesday Journal, which is committed to providing local news to places, like Maywood, that desperately need it.”

Congratulations, Michael and Maywood!

Timothy Inklebarger

Last year, the Investigational Research, Design and Innovation (IDRI) program at Oak Park and River Forest High School produced the winner of the international BioGENEius competition, with thensenior Jilly Cronin taking the top prize at what’s considered the world’s most prestigious high school biotech research competition.

Cronin’s research explored a method for utilizing living organisms to absorb heavy metal pollution from water.

This year, five of the 12 regional finalists who competed at the 42nd Annual Chicago Region Junior Science and Humanities Symposium earlier this month were OPRF IRDI students. Two of those students, Ellen Morgan and Stephanie Guralnick, won free trips to compete at the nationals in San Diego, California next month.

According to District 200 officials, this is the first time that OPRF has had more than one student advance to the nationals.

Morgan and Guralnick took second and fourth place overall in the Chicago region, respectively.

Morgan’s research could lead to a safer, more effective method of treating patients suffering from ischemic stroke. Guralnick’s research explored how memory can be strengthened and reactivated during

sleep.

Who said you have to wait to become a full-fledged adult to change the world?

Michael Romain

Still time to vote early

Voters have less than a week to go to the polls early. Cook County’s early voting period runs until April 3, the day before the April 4 election.

Oak Park Village Hall, 123 Madison St., will be open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, and on Saturday, April 1.

According to the village’s website, “Grace period registration also will be offered for those who are ready to cast a ballot. Voter registration requires two types of identification, at least one with the current address. A driver’s license or picture ID is preferred, along with an additional item such as a lease or utility bill.”

For more info, visit http://www.cookcountyclerk.com/elections/earlyvoting/.

Michael Romain

To run an obituary Please contact Ken Trainor by e-mail: ktrainor@wjinc.com, or fax: 708/524-0447 before Monday at noon.

Please include a photo if possible.

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Fantasticks Voice power Wednesday, March 29 from 5 to 7 p.m., Oak Park Public Library Veterans Room: Listen to poets, storytellers, and others who want to share their voice at “Your Voice Is Your Power,” a spoken-word freestyle open mic. This month’s featured artist is Mayda Del Valle, a native of Chicago’s South Side.

Sid Part of the library’s More Than a M Month series. For more, visit oppl.o oppl.org/more. 834 Lake St.

March 31 and April 1, 7 and 8 at 7:30 p.m. and April 2 and 9 at 2 p.m.: The Collective, the theater production company of Concordia University Chicago, presents The Fantasticks, the 1960 musical composed by Harvey Schmidt with lyrics by Tom Jones. The play will run at Madison Street Theatre, 1010 Madison St., Oak Park. An opening gala will be held in the newly renovated foyer after the March 31 performance. General admission tickets are $20, with discounts available for students, seniors and CUC alumni. Purchase tickets online at CUCfantasticks.brownpapertickets.com or by cash or check at the door before show time.

March 29 - April 5

BIG WEEK Artist reception Sunday, April 2 at 3 p.m., Oak Park Public Library Veterans Room: Oak Park artist Christine Baumbach will be on hand to talk about her paintings of western state vistas, seascapes, flowers, people, and more. The exhibit will remain on display through the month of April. For more information, visit oppl.org/events.

834 Lake St.

If it ain’t broke

Wednesday, April 5 at 7 p.m., Oak Park Public Library Veterans Room: Tom Tresser, Hilary Denk and Amara Enyia, authors of Chicago Is Not Broke, show that, far from being broke, Chicago has ample resources to become the city we all need and deserve. This book event is a collaboration between the League of Women Voters of Oak Park-River Forest and the Oak Park Public Library. 834 Lake St.

St. Kate lecture Thursday, March 30 at 7 p.m., Priory Auditorium: Massimo Faggioli, PhD, will deliver the St. Catherine of Siena Lecture, “The Ecclesiology of Pope Francis,” Dr. Faggioli is Professor of Theology and Religious Studies at Villanova University. $10. Dominican University’s Priory Campus, 7200 W. Division Street, River Forest.

CALENDAR EVENTS ■ As you’ve likely noticed, our

Calendar has changed to Big Week. Fewer items, higher profile.

If you would like your event to be featured here, please send a photo and details by noon of the Wednesday before it needs to be published.

We can’t publish everything, but we’ll do our best to feature the week’s highlights.

Email calendar@wjinc.com.

Reuniting at First United

Resilient Aging

Spring band concert Friday, March 31 at 8 p.m., the Chapel of Our Lord: Concordia-Chicago’s University Band will perform its spring concert. Performances for the evening will include “American Overture for Band” by Joseph Willcox Jenkins, “On an American Spiritual” by David Holsinger, “Arabesque”

by Samuel Hazo, “Jazz Suite No. 2” by Dmitri Shostakovich, “Irish Tune from County Derry” by Percy Grainger, “Big Band Signatures” by John Higgins, “The Cowboys” by John Williams and “Lightning Field” by John Mackey.

Admission is free. 7400 Augusta St., River Forest. For more information, visit CUChicago.edu/music or call 708-209-3060.

Sunday, April 2 at 4 p.m., First United Church of Oak Park: Rhonda Sider and Brian Reichenbach will present music for organ and trumpet, playing a variety of pieces from Baroque to jazz, including a selection from Czech composer Petr Eben’s Okna (inspired by the Chagall windows). Brian and Rhonda originally met when they were music students at Wheaton Conservatory. Their first joint musical collaborations were at First United Church, and they are pleased to bring this collaboration back to First United. 848 Lake St. For more, call 708-386-5215 or musicatfirst@firstunitedoakpark.com. Free will offering accepted.

RSVP by Monday, April 3 at CUChicago.edu/resilientaging: The Center for Gerontology at Concordia University Chicago and Arbor West Neighbors will host “Resilient Aging – Resilient Living: Cultivating Community Good for All Ages,” a day of education, advocacy and action on Tuesday, April 18, from 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. on the Concordia campus in River Forest. Dr. Roger Landry, a renowned medical expert in the field of aging, will make the presentation. The event is open to the public and lunch will be provided. 7400 Augusta St., River Forest.

Surviving Lauren Tarshis Monday, April 3 at 3:45 p.m., Magic Tree Bookstore: Lauren Tarshis, author of the I Survived and I Survived True Stories series infrequently tours, and this is her only public stop in Chicago. She will be discussing her books and signing copies. The price of admission: buy one of her amazing books. Stop in or call 708-848-0770 to reserve your spot. 141 N. Oak Park Ave.

Renaissance Gems Sunday, April 2 at 4 p.m., Grace Lutheran Church, 7300 Division St., River Forest: The Oak Park Concert Chorale Spring Concert features Late Renaissance choral gems from England, Germany, Spain and the Netherlands. Highlights include Johann Staden’s rarely heard “Magnificat” and the world premiere of “Four Mother Goose Rhymes” by OPCC’s composer-in-residence, Michael Wolniakowski. Tickets can be purchased online at www. oakparkconcertchorale.org or by phone, 708-848-2130 or email, info@OakParkConcertChorale. org. Tickets will also be available at the door.

Wednesday Journal, March 29, 2017

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ART BEAT

The art of thrift-shopping

Photos courtesy Michelle Dybal

Helen Binns with one of her braided rugs. (Inset) a beaded bunny by Laura Hunt.

By MICHELLE DYBAL

T

Contributing Reporter

he Economy Shop is many things: a place to donate items; a source of income for local charities; an outlet for clothes, shoes, and household items for those on a budget; an Oak Park institution since 1919. But for some, the Economy Shop is an inspiration and resource for their creations.

A marked-down wool coat or blanket with holes may seem useless to some, but that is exactly what Helen Binns looks for when she goes through the Economy Shop, located at the corner of Grove and South Boulevard.

A crafter of braided rugs, and also a pediatrician at Lurie’s Children’s Hospital, Binns will spend from $2 to $5 on each wool item.

Typically, six of these go into a finished rug, which is very durable and should last at least 25 years. They range in size from a 3-foot circle to a 9-by-12 oblong.

Growing up, Binns’ great aunt, who lived on an Iowa farm, made braided rugs from old overalls. Her sister learned how to make the rugs, but she did not.

“About 15 years ago, I bought a book and learned on my own,” Binns said. She has recently had more time to create the rugs — about eight per year since 2010 — which she has in her home and gives to family, friends and colleagues. She also customizes her rugs, as she did for one family member with a wool allergy.

“There was a sale on corduroy pants at the end of the season in Men’s Wear,” she said.

“The rug I made from those pants is in my niece’s room.”

For Laura Hunt, the Economy Shop’s three floors of goods provide myriad material for the range of high-style crafts she creates. “I have spent many fun afternoons wandering around,” she said. “It’s my primary resource and I enjoy hunting for the perfect supplies.”

Hunt, who is also a web developer, cre-

ates original amigurumi crochet creatures as well as hats with yarn from the Sewing and Craft Room, jewelry from re-used beads from the Gift Room, and stuffed animals from various clothing found throughout.

She is currently working on a set of five “mosaic” decorative pillows to coordinate with the lobby of her Oak Park condominium.

“I got almost all the colors I needed and piping for under $15,” Hunt said. “The fabrics are varied in texture and pattern and are far from what I would have ended up with if I’d gone to a fabric store.”

Economy Shop President Nancy Hines, who started as a volunteer 12 years ago, has learned to be open-minded about donations.

“I might have gotten rid of wool with holes,” she noted, “but I learned from our customers they have ideas for these things.” In 2007 in response to this, Hines created the “Customer of the Week,” where she features the creativity of someone who makes things with Economy Shop finds. The photos are hung in the Craft and Sewing Room and binders of previously featured customers are stored there.

For Belinda Bremner, the Economy Shop’s 16 rooms all have potential for her needs.

Bremner, who is an artistic associate with Oak Park Festival Theatre, has found numerous props and clothing to be remade into costumes.

“When we did Richard III,” she recalled, “I got fur, lace, velvet and jewels from the Economy Shop, which were used to make the costumes. When we staged our radio show, I got 1940s hats from the Accessories Room. Now I’m buying pewter platters and mugs for this summer’s production of Macbeth.”

The Craft and Sewing Room is also a resource for Bremner as she buys up yarn for a personal project of hers, knitting scarves for Sarah’s Inn, which supports victims of domestic abuse. She donated 100 of her handmade creations last December.

Bremner is also one of the more than 100 volunteers at the Economy Shop, including those who ready donations and those who help during sales, which are usually held three days per month from September through June. The charities supported are Animal Care League, Oak Park-River Forest Day Nursery, Infant Welfare Society, Thrive Counseling Center, Hephzibah, Senior Citizens Center, and Oak Park-River Forest Food Pantry.

For donation information and shopping dates, go to economyshop.org.

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facebook.com/voterobinsonparran On April 4th Vote for the Oak Park Community Service Party for Oak Park Township Clarmarie I. Keenan, Supervisor Gregory P. White, Clerk Ali Elsaffar, Assessor Trustees: • Eric E. Davis • Michelle Mbekeani-Wiley • Adekunle “Ade” Onayemi • Margaret Trybus

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Voting is cool! ing is cool!

Safety tip: Don’t drink and vote.

Safety tip: Don’t drink and vote.

OPRF students look deep on race

O

dds and ends with some a bit odder than others: Crossing Austin: Two weeks back, a group of students at OPRF mounted an original production they had created and then performed over three days. I saw the last performance before a packed house in the Little Theatre.

This was eye-opening and inspiring. The take of students on race and institutional racism in their school, their classrooms, their lunchroom. The effort by those students to sort out Oak Park’s imperfect but ballsy history in trying to create integration of races melded with white self-preservation and a white-defined determination of what the terms of that integration would be.

The recognition by these writers and actors that Austin Boulevard is both a hard border and an enduring metaphor for our fears and our still-profound divisions. The appreciation that other borders are also real and immediate as, for instance, OPRF deals with Latino students crossing over from either Cicero or Mexico.

While some of the history was inevitably thin, it was a relief to me to see young Oak Parkers grapple with the truth that Oak Park is not accidental.

The accomplishments of that moment in the late 1960s and into the 1970s — Fair Housing, the Housing Center, the buy-in of Realtors, the activism of middle-class whites, the reorganization of the schools — were monumental, invented on the run, generous and self-serving, crafted entirely by white people.

Also not accidental was the choice to build a physical and more-or-less impermeable wall between Oak Park and Austin, two communities, which, until that very moment, had a deep and loving bond. Cul-de-sacs at every non-commercial entry point along Austin from North Avenue to Roosevelt, and soon extended along Washington Boulevard and Chicago Avenue, too.

The program for the play had short

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biographical essays by each performer and writer in the play. These were, in ways, more revealing than the play itself.

“I have not crossed many borders in my life,” wrote a student. “I am white and I rarely cross racial borders. … Despite having lived less than two blocks from Austin for the majority of my life, I have never set foot in the West Side of Chicago, and until recently, I didn’t know anybody else who had

either.”

This is the common experience. And in a challenging post-performance discussion led by OPRF teacher and activist Anthony Clark, both students and adults laid out the many ways that racism manifests itself every day at our high school, how perceptions and misperceptions foster ignorance and division.

That made this play especially brave and necessary.

Its creators understand that their work is not done, that the surface has been scratched.

One especially intriguing idea is to pursue this story from the other side of the boulevard. How do black teens who have grown up in Austin perceive and live with the border wall? How do they see Oak Park? We know well an afterschool theater project in Austin. Putting these two groups together to talk, possibly to collaborate, would extend this story, deepen the understanding of the reality and the nonsense of this divide.

Lawn signs: In the next-to-final weekend of this well-contested election season in Oak Park and River Forest, came the reports of lawn sign thefts and destruction. Patty Henek, a trustee candidate in River Forest, is seeing her signs being mutilated for a second consecutive election cycle. In Oak Park, we’ve heard from partisans who have seen signs stolen from their lawns in the night.

You can write this off to hooliganism if you want. I think it is something more telling about the souring state of our civic dialogue.

R E A C H

U S

Wednesday Journal, 141 S. Oak Park Ave., Oak Park, Illinois 60302 PHONE 708-524-8300 ■ FAX 708-524-0447 ■ ONLINE www.OakPark.com | www.RiverForest.com CIRCULATION Jill Wagner, 708-613-3340 circulation@oakpark.com DISPLAY ADVERTISING Dawn Ferencak, 708-613-3329 dawn@oakpark.com

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Local NAMI group opens wellness center in La Grange

Living Room destigmatizes mental illness treatment

By MICHAEL ROMAIN Staff Reporter

The National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) Metro Suburban, an Oak Park-based affiliate of the national NAMI organization, is marking its 25th year in existence by getting the word out about a new community wellness and respite center it opened last October in La Grange.

The Oak Park institution is well-known for its drop-in center at 816 Harrison St., the first “free-standing, consumer operated” drop-in center in Illinois, according to NAMI Metro Suburban’s website. The center is designed to give individuals suffering from mental illness a safe, stigma-free zone where they can socialize and get numerous support services. The La Grange facility’s function is similar to the one in Oak Park, though the furniture may be newer.

“This is actually two different programs in one building,” said Kimberly Knake, NAMIMetro Suburban’s executive director, during an information session and tour of the facility held for local law enforcement and elected officials on March 1.

One portion of the facility, the community wellness center, offers mental health education that’s geared toward parents.

“We educate them on everything from the neuroscience behind the development of the teenage brain KIMBERLY KNAKE and its relationship NAMI-Metro Suburban’s with mental illness to executive director yoga and meditation,”

periencing an increase in their symptoms and psychoses,” she said. “The police really couldn’t do anything with them. Then, 45 to 60 days later, the police would be called back to the home when the person was experiencing a full psychotic episode and that person would have to be transported to the hospital.”

Shelly Lustrup, a licensed clinical social worker and director of recovery support services for NAMI Metro Suburban, said that the Living Room — so called in order to shake the stigma that comes with the NAMI name — takes in the individuals who police

Knake said. “We really want to empower parents to understand more about mental health and give them the skills to bring back to their families.”

Another portion of the building, called the Living Room, is a respite space for individuals, age 18 and up, who suffer from mental illness symptoms. The goal of the room, Knake said, is to reduce “costly hospitalizations for people feeling an increase in their mental health symptoms.”

Before opening the center, Knake said, NAMI officials researched 30 different police departments in Lyons and Proviso Township. They found that those departments fielded an average of 150 mental health crisis calls a year.

“The police officers we heard from would tell us that they’d go out on a mental health crisis call and someone’s loved one wasn’t a harm to themselves or others but were ex-

with reality or are suicidal], then we’re not a good fit. We’ll transport them to a hospital.”

Lustrup said NAMI will order Uber or cab rides to and from the facility for individuals who need transportation.

She added that the center is open seven days a week, 365 days a year and is staffed with five recovery support specialists. The specialists, who have experienced mental illness themselves, help individuals identify obstacles to recovery and any triggers that might prompt episodes. The specialists also help develop action plans for those admitted.

Join Us In Leading Oak Park Forward Vote for

Barber, Brewer & Malinski

“We really

want to empower parents to understand more about mental health and give them the skills to bring back to their families.”

can’t do anything with.

The service is free of charge, with numerous private foundations footing the bill, and the carpeted interior — replete with a plush leather sofa and subtle, stress-reducing atmospherics like a synthetic waterfall — are designed to put clients at ease when they arrive.

“Anybody feeling an increase in their symptoms should come to us,” Lustrupe said, “whether they’re having a panic attack or an increase in anxiety, depression or bipolar symptoms. When someone comes in and are in such a psychotic state that they’re not [in touch

We support Peter, Glenn and Lori, and you should too!

Vote April 4th

Peter Barber for Village Trustee

Wednesday Journal ENDORSED

Glenn Brewer for Village Trustee

Wednesday Journal ENDORSED

Lori Malinski for Village Clerk

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As Chicago’s population declines, Oak Park’s booms

Local officials, business owners say high taxes are causing the flight

By MICHAEL ROMAIN Staff Reporter

According to U.S. census data released last week, the Chicago metropolitan area — which encompasses the city and surrounding suburbs, including portions of Wisconsin and Indiana — was the only one of the country’s 10 largest metropolitan areas to register a dip in population between 2015 and 2016.

According to a Chicago Tribune analysis of the data, the Chicago area lost 19,570 residents in 2016. In 2015, the region lost 11,324 people. The major reasons for leaving, given to reporters by dozens of former residents, were “high taxes, the state budget stalemate, crime, the unemployment rate and the weather,” according to the recent Tribune article.

During a March 24 meeting convened by Cook County Commissioner Richard Boykin (1st District) at Loyola University Chicago’s Niehoff School of Nursing in Maywood, about 60 business owners, local chamber of commerce heads, industry representatives, and elected officials gathered to talk about their own experiences doing business, and passing policy, in Chicago’s western suburbs.

“We’re likely to lose a congressional seat and resources when they redraw the maps,” said Boykin, who called the meeting “a candid conversation” on the region’s business climate. “A lot of [the population loss] is being driven by bad economic policy.”

Oak Park Mayor Anan Abu-Taleb said the village has been able to grow — both in population and in local business activity — despite the region’s recent population decline by implementing an aggressive prodevelopment strategy.

Over the next several years, several thousand new residents are expected to flood

Yen and other Oak Park business owners into Oak Park’s downtown area, where highrise developments have swiftly made their at the meeting, including Deno Andrews mark up and down Lake Street. According — the owner of Felony Frank’s in Oak Park and a candidate for village to prior Wednesday Journal trustee — argued that Oak Park reporting, village officials has not been entirely insulated project that Oak Park will take from problems affecting the in as much as $600 million in larger Chicago region. private investment, and nearly They cited the “bad economic $25 million in property tax policies” that Boykin referenced, revenue, through 2025. including sales and property “About four years ago in tax increases, particularly the Oak Park, the population penny-per-ounce tax on sugary was 52,000 people,” the mayor beverages that the county said. “We were stuck and our board passed last November, as economic development was the most glaring obstacles to literally non-existent.

We economic growth. had a symbolic chamber of Boykin voted against the commerce, processes that only penny tax, as did commissioners led to more processes but not Jeff Tobolski (16th) and the to more progress, a planning commission that took forever board’s only Republican, Sean to make recommendations to Morrison (17th), both of whom the village board and we had a were in attendance at the reputation as a place that was meeting. very difficult to do business in.”

“While [local officials] can Abu-Taleb lauded the ability help attract the businesses in, of Cathy Yen, executive director it’s the property taxes that will of the Oak Park-River Forest make them fail,” said Yen. “So Chamber of Commerce, to although the vacancy rate in Oak take the organization from Park is really low, the turnover “a symbolic one to one that is high. We are feeling the spaces ANAN ABUTALEB is very, very effective,” and for sure, but the smaller end Oak Park mayor the evolution of the village’s businesses can’t survive.”

Economic Development “I believe that property taxes Corporation to a useful tool for are the single biggest threat, or vetting and attracting potential barrier to entry, for businesses development. moving in,” said Andrews.

“We set a goal, a numerical value,” the “My small restaurant is 1,799 square feet mayor said. “We said we wanted to bring and I pay about $25,000 a year in property in $600 million of new investment over the taxes,” he said. “That’s essentially $500 a next 10 years, increase our sales tax revenue week. What’s sad is I pay more for property by 50 percent and increase our population taxes than I pay any single employee on by 3,000 people. Right now, we’re two-thirds a weekly basis. I can’t pay my staff what of the way to our goal.”

I would like to pay them because I have The mayor conceded that the progress another staff member — the government. may have come too swiftly for some, adding That makes it very difficult.” that many residents are “now saying, Yen cited a “back of the envelope” estimate ‘Slow down, it’s too much, we need organic of how much more product Andrews needs development that happens from the roots to sell in order to compete with fast food and [according] to our values.’” places in DuPage County.

“We said we wanted to bring in $600 million of new investment over the next 10 years, increase our sales tax revenue by 50 percent and increase our population by 3,000 people.

Right now, we’re two-thirds of the way to our goal.”

“For the same bottom line, he has to sell 20,000 more hot dogs than he would if he was 10 miles west on North Avenue,” she said.

Abu-Taleb, himself a restaurant owner, said local governments need tax revenue to provide necessary services for vulnerable populations, such as the elderly, the sick and the poor, that otherwise would not get the assistance they need.

Most of Cook County’s budget, for instance, goes to health care and public safety expenditures. And Morrison pointed out that the majority of local property taxes are utilized to pay for public schools.

“The services we provide are expensive and they’re not getting any cheaper,” AbuTaleb said, adding that the state could stand to consolidate some of its over 7,400 taxing agencies — by far the highest number of any state in the country. “Many of these services can’t be provided by the private sector.”

CONTACT: michael@oakpark.com

Join the conversation Please send Letters to the Editor to ■ mstempniak@wjinc.com or ■ Wednesday Journal, 141 S. Oak Park Ave., Oak Park, IL 60302 Include name, address and daytime phone number for verification.

Man dies in River Forest house fire

Officials investigating cause; no foul play suspected

By THOMAS VOGEL Contributing Writer

A 50-year-old man died March 26 in a house fire in the 500 block of Park Avenue in River Forest.

Frank Shuftan, a spokesperson for the Cook County Medical Examiner, said Elpidio Flores, whose body was found in the

building, died of smoke inhalation. No foul play is suspected, River Forest Fire Chief James Eggert said.

The Illinois State Fire Marshal and Division 11 of the Mutual Aid Box Alarm System (MABAS), a state-wide mutual aid group for emergency services which includes River Forest, are investigating to determine the cause of the fire.

Eggert would not confirm if Flores was a resident of the home.

At about 2:30 p.m. the River Forest Fire Department got a call about the fire. “It was

a block from the firehouse,” Eggert said. “It only took us about a minute to get there.”

Fire departments from eight neighboring communities responded, Eggert said. After arriving, firefighters saw “heavy smoke and flames” coming out of the basement window on the home’s east side and entered through the back basement door.

“They had to negotiate their way through smoke and heat,” Eggert said.

Firefighters got the fire under control in about 15 minutes. Eggert said the first firefighters who entered the home did not know

someone was inside.

Four other people — two adults and two children — escaped from the first floor unharmed. By the time firefighters arrived, four tenants had already left the home.

The building’s top floor was vacant.

“There was extensive damage [to the home],” Eggert said. “[But] this is not a total loss. Structurally, it’s still sound.”

No firefighters or other civilians were harmed. The building’s owner was reportedly on vacation at the time of the fire.

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Wednesday Journal, March 29, 2017

OAKPARK.COM | RIVERFOREST.COM

OPRF boasts National PE Teacher of the Year

Carlson recognized for her role in redefining selfdefense instruction

By MICHAEL ROMAIN Staff Reporter

Linda Carlson, 45, has taught physical education at Oak Park and River Forest High School for more than two decades.

She’s been an instructor for everything from racket sports to team sports, but it’s her defining role in shaping a comprehensive 45-day course called R.A.D.ical SelfDefense that merited special mention in a statement released earlier this month by the Society of Health and Physical Educators (SHAPE).

Carlson, SHAPE announced in the statement, was this year’s National High School Physical Education Teacher of the Year.

Carlson has taught self-defense at the high school since she first started working there 23 years ago. First implemented prior to her tenure, in the 1980s, the course has evolved to encompass much more than how to land the most precise kicks, punches and strikes.

R.A.D.ical Self-Defense, which is mandatory for all freshmen — male and female — is designed to teach students how to recognize,

reduce and avoid aggressive behavior and assault and dating violence.” actions, according to SHAPE’s statement.

According to Philip Prale, OPRF’s outgoIn an interview last week, Carlson empha- ing assistant superintendent for curriculum sized how important the course is, particu- and instruction, “No other teacher in my exlarly to students who may be on the cusp of perience has committed more effort or has going to college. Upperclassmen have the op- accomplished more in improving the profestion of taking a week-long sion through individual and refresher course to shore collaborative efforts. up on the lessons they “She has extensive expelearned as ninth-graders. rience with diverse popu“Anywhere from 1-in-3 lations, a broad set of curto 1-in-5 girls will be sexuriculum expertise, and she ally assaulted in college has never forgotten that and 1-in-33 men will be central to our role as edusexually assaulted and cators is the need to creabused in a lifetime,” ate and sustain caring and Carlson said. “But we’re supportive relationships not really sure what with students, colleagues, the real statistics are, parents and community,” because rape is underhe said. reported due to victim Carlson, who is a memblaming and shame. ber of SHAPE America, WILLIAM CAMARGO/Staff Photographer “Part of what this class obtained her bachelor’s degree in K-12 physical does is help survivors PIONEER: Oak Park and River education at Wheaton overcome that shame and Forest High School seniors reCollege and her master’s empower them to know ceive a refresher on self-defense degree in kinesiology that they deserve healthy, skills from Linda Carlson. from University of Illiromantic relationships nois at Chicago. and friendships — reShe said this is the first time she’s been gardless of gender,” she added. “This is everyone’s issue and we all can get on board nominated for the award, which she was givto help each other fight rape culture, sexual en at SHAPE’s 132nd National Convention &

Expo, held March 14 to March 18 in Boston.

“The award is given in recognition of outstanding teaching performance at the high school level and the ability to motivate today’s youth to participate in a lifetime of physical activity,” SHAPE officials said in their statement.

Each year, the organization gives Teacher of the Year awards to educators who are selected in the areas of “adapted physical education, dance education, school health, elementary physical education, middle school physical education and high school physical education.”

During last week’s interview, Carlson said she was shocked to learn of her nomination and also surprised at how she became a national contender for the top distinction, which requires nominees to advance out of different levels.

“I never expected to go to the Midwest or national level,” she said. “And I was surprised to win the national award, because many people would not consider this traditional physical education.

“I applaud SHAPE for having that vision and understanding the importance of teaching our youth this material. I really think it’s a win for students. Hopefully, this program and programs like it will continue to be part of physical education.”

CONTACT: michael@oakpark.com

Experience the Nineteenth Always Welcoming and Open

Monday, April 3 – 1:15 Tiny Houses, with designer Paul Schultz.

Small homes, spaces typically 500 to 700 square feet, are often built on a trailer to be portable. Designed to meet function first – whether it’s a loft bed or composting toilet – for less than $10,000 up to $100,000.

And at the Altenheim, you’ll be able to protect it with rent that is reasonable.

But the Altenheim is so much more… it is surrounded with beautiful grounds and wildlife, seniors who look out for one another and apartment selections and activities to suit your lifestyle.

You’ll be as happy as a lark here; come visit us to find out why.

7824 West Madison Street Forest Park, IL 60130 708.366.2206 www.thealtenheim.com

Monday, April 10 – 1:15 Benjamin Marshall: Architect and Bon Vivant – Steven Monz Docent and lecturer, Monz paints a portrait of Marshall through several of his Chicago projects. You might recognize some of his residential buildings along East Lake Shore Drive and the Drake and Blackstone Hotels.

Monday, April 17 – 1:15 Murder and Mayhem in the Land Before O’Hare – Shane Gericke Best-selling crime novelist Gericke leads a panel of bestselling authors: Lori Rader Day, Doug M. Cummings, Andrew Grant and special guests. Learn their craft of creating thriller fiction that keeps you reading far into the night.

Thursday, April 20 – 7:30 Lincoln’s Funeral Pageant – A Nation Grieves Its Martyred President Brian Flora, Civil War historian, brings to life the 20-day, elaborate funeral procession of our beloved US president. Dubbed “The Lincoln Special”; traveling 1,645 miles, it stopped in 12 major cities, transfiguring Lincoln from a mortal man to a martyred saint. Doors open 6:45, Program 7:30. Refreshments, cash bar.

Friday, April 21 – 7:00 – 10:00 4th Annual Oak Park River Forest High School Swing Dance.

The award-winning Jazz Band offers up an electrifying and professional program. Boogie to the beat at this all ages, family friendly event. A benefit for Jazz Camp and Nineteenth Century Scholarship Fund. Adults 19 and over - $10; Students up to 18 - $5

Sunday, April 23 – 3:00 Free Readers Celebrating Poetry Month by inviting some of our favorite poets to come and read some of their own work.

For complete program descriptions, please visit www.nineteenthcentury.org $10 suggested program donation; lunch offered at noon on Mondays.$20, reservations required.

178 Forest Ave., Oak Park | (708) 386-2729 | www.nineteenthcentury.org

Wednesday Journal, March 29, 2017

OAKPARK.COM | RIVERFOREST.COM

11

Oak Park mulls options for North Ave. improvement Village ponders TIF, special service area or biz district

By TIMOTHY INKLEBARGER

the city of Chicago have been “very clear landscaping, snow removal, security and that no money raised from one side can be marketing, can only funded in business districts and SSAs. Only business district spent on the other.”

“But we can realize economies of scale,” funds can be used to fund new construction, Three years after the Oak Park Board of Trustees mulled ways to spur economic de- such as splitting costs on maintenance con- according to Ehlers.

Alexander said she envisions a more velopment along Roosevelt Road, the village tracts, she said.

Alexander said the Oak Park side could inviting North Avenue with promotional is back with a forthcoming study on North opt for more than one option, choosing an banners, clean streets and maintained parkAvenue. ways.

SSA and a TIF, for The village hired public fi“We want it to look cared for and example. nance consultant Ehlers Inc. in clean,” she said, citing the so-called “They are not 2014 to weigh the pros and cons broken windows theory, which is mutually excluof creating one of three districts that unkempt areas are more prone sive; you could along Roosevelt to increase ecoto criminal activity. “Having that have all three,” she nomic development: a Tax Inappearance tends to lower crime said. crement Finance (TIF) district, even more because it looks like The three opa business district or a special someone is watching it.” tions differ in service area (SSA).

Though Alexander did not state where the tax All three proposals have differa preference for any of the three money is collected ent ways of creating new taxes taxation districts, she did say a – residential propor diverting existing ones to pay business district on North Avenue erty owners, comfor everything from cleaning might have a hard time because of mercial property sidewalks to handing out milthe decline of storefront retail esowners and busilions in financial incentives to tablishments across the country. ness owners – and recruit new businesses.

“Retail is having a hard time evhow the funds colThe Oak Park Board of Trusterywhere,” she said. “Shopping lected can be used. ees never moved to enact any of centers are having a problem stayTIF districts the three ideas along Roosevelt ing occupied with stores.” collect funds via Road – the primary goal was to She said her organization, The property taxes. compete with the booming ecoNorth Avenue District (T-NAD), Property tax asnomic activity on the Berwyn believes North Avenue needs more sessments are froside, which many believe was residential development. zen for 23 years – brought on by that city’s estab“We think there is more commerthe maximum life lishment of a TIF – but Ehlers cial space on North than the market of the TIF – and has again been hired to provide can absorb,” she said. any incremental the same guidance for North AvNorth Avenue residents and tax revenue over enue. neighborhood organizations got a that time within Village Manager Cara PavCARA PAVLICEK shot in the arm in their efforts to the TIF is funlicek told Wednesday Journal Oak Park Village manager revitalize the commercial corridor neled into a fund that the board largely has been in 2015, when the Illinois Departthat can only be focused on closing out three ment of Transportation awarded used in the district other existing TIFs – Downtown the Chicago Department of Transfor improvements Oak Park, Madison Street and and financial incentives to busi- portation a $225,000 to plan improvements to Harlem Avenue/Garfield Street nesses. parking, accessibility and walkability of the – which will expire over the next Special Service Areas and four-lane street. three years. business districts impose a slight Those funds were never awarded, though, Pavlicek said she expects increase on the existing tax base due to the state ongoing state budget imEhlers’ report for North Avenue – through additional property passe in Springfield. to be out in the second or third “IDOT in now requiring CDOT to reapply JUDITH ALEXANDER taxes in SSAs and higher sales quarter of 2017. taxes for business districts – for the grant, citing the amount of time that Chair of the North Avenue “I think the board believes in rather than siphoning away tax has elapsed,” Alexander said.

District and founder of the both the Roosevelt Road and the revenue that would otherwise CONTACT: tim@oakpark.com North Avenue Neighbors North Avenue corridors as prebe available for public schools senting a lot of opportunities in and other government services, this community,” Pavlicek said. which is what happens in a TIF. Pavlicek noted that residents W E D N E S D A Y Ehlers said in September 2016 on the Chicago side of North Avenue also are weighing the options of creat- that money collected from all three options can be used for public infrastructure ing their own taxation district.

Judith Alexander, chairwoman of The improvements, including streets; storm of Oak Park and River Forest North Avenue District and founder of the drains, water/sewer mains, sidewalks, bike North Avenue Neighbors Association, says paths, lighting signage and parking. All she’s hopeful the village will take action on three options also are permitted to establish the North Avenue study and help revitalize a revolving loan fund for eligible expenses.

Please contact Ken Trainor by e-mail: Only in business districts and TIFs can the commercial corridor. ktrainor@wjinc.com, or fax: 708/524-0447 “Our vision is to have about the same level money be used for land acquisition, site before Monday at noon. of funding on each side of the street,” she preparation and renovation of deteriorated Please include a photo if possible. or obsolete buildings, according to Ehlers. said.

Improvements to public services such as Alexander said that both the village and Staff Reporter

“We want it to look cared for and clean,” she said, citing the so-called broken windows theory, which is that unkempt areas are more prone to criminal activity. “Have that appearance tends to lower crime even more because it looks like someone is watching it.”

“I think the board believes in both the Roosevelt Road and the North Avenue corridors as presenting a lot of opportunities in this community.”

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Wednesday Journal, March 29, 2017

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Oak Park trustees warned to avoid Albion meeting

Village attorney sends reminder about communication with developers

By TIMOTHY INKLEBARGER Staff Reporter

Oak Park voters will pick three new village trustees in less than a week, and a controversial proposal to build an 18-story building at the corner of Lake and Forest has become a focal point of the race.

Challengers Deno Andrews, Dan Moroney and Simone Boutet have publicly stated their opposition to a zoning change necessary for Albion Residential to build the structure taller than the eight stories allowed under the existing zoning ordinance.

But incumbent trustee candidates Peter Barber and Glenn Brewer have been noncommittal, both stating that it is the job of trustees to hear the developer’s proposal before casting judgment.

Some candidates got a jump on the debate in late January, when they attended a public open-house meeting at the 19th Century Club where Albion first presented the project to the public.

That’s because sitting trustees received a memo from Village Attorney Paul Stephanides telling them that attending the meeting would be considered an inappropriate “ex parte communication” with the developer.

Ex parte communication is a legal term more commonly applied to judges speaking to people involved in a court case – attorneys, clients and others – outside the confines of the court room. The idea is to prevent judges and officials from making backroom deals.

Incumbents have faced charges from some voters that they will rubber stamp the zoning change and were criticized for failing to attend the important meeting where challengers freely told voters they would oppose the project.

Brewer, who is running for a third term as trustee, said in a telephone interview that it is the first time on the board he can remember receiving a letter about ex parte communication.

He said the Stephanides letter was prompted by a question from former trustee Adam Salzman, who had been asked by constituents if the meeting was being held by the village or the developer.

“Since [Salzman] asked that question, the attorney thought it would be in the best interest to make clear that it was not [a village-sponsored] meeting,” Brewer said, adding that Stephanides responded not just to

Salzman but to all trustees, reminding them that they are encouraged to not attend such meetings due to the issue concerning ex parte communication.

Brewer said he and Barber have gotten emails and questions from constituents wondering why they didn’t attend.

“It’s on the advice of our attorney that we thought it would be inappropriate to be there,” he said he tells them.

But why is it inappropriate for trustees to attend a public meeting that involves a potential future development that would have a long-lasting effect on the village. Village Trustee Colette Lueck says it’s partly a perception issue.

Lueck said it was the first time in her tenure as trustee that she’s been given such direction to not attend a meeting because of the potential for ex parte communication with a developer. But she added that she believes the memo from Stephanides was appropriate.

“The goal is to have a fair process because both sides of the issue know the lines of communication and how it works,” she said.

“Once you step outside that, it’s not fair to the other side. Maybe you have access to information that they don’t.”

She said it’s a “slippery slope” between attending such a meeting and participating, adding that stepping out of the process can “open the door for being accused of backroom deals.”

“The goal is to have a fair process because both sides of the issue know the lines of communication and how it works.”

COLETTE LUECK Village Trustee

Village Manager Cara Pavlicek declined to discuss how often memos concerning ex parte communication have been sent to trustees and declined to release a copy of the memo sent by Stephanides, citing attorney-client privilege on both matters. The village also did not immediately respond to a Freedom of Information Act request for the memo.

Pavlicek said the dynamic created by public meetings trustees are encouraged to avoid creates a dilemma for the elected officials because if they skip the meeting they’ll be criticized by the public but if they go they’ll be pressured to say whether they support the project.

“How can they say if nothing has been [formally] put forward [by the developer]?” she asked.

CONTACT: tim@oakpark.com

SPONSORED CONTENT

Engage Christian Church Welcomes You To Engage God, His Family, His Mission

After nearly 20 years of ministry in Indiana and Michigan, Pastor Dawayne Choice has returned to his Chicago roots to plant the Engage Christian Church, whose worship services launch this Sunday, April 2, at Beye School in Oak Park in time to celebrate the new life of the Easter season.

A non-denominational Christian church, Engage’s name and purpose flow directly from its stated mission: Engaging God, His Family, His Mission. Pastor Choice described how the church’s mission translates into action: “I saw the play ‘Crossing Austin’ at the high school [Oak Park River Forest] and I thought: A lot of our challenges can be overcome if we can learn to love each other authentically. We believe that to love one another authentically requires first experiencing the love of God. Once we experience that love, we are challenged to live in a way that communicates and demonstrates that love in our surrounding community.”

Demonstrating its mission in the surrounding community is part of the reason Engage chose to locate in Oak Park.

“We want to be a part of the great things that are happening in Oak Park,” said Pastor Choice. “We want to collaborate with other organizations to help serve and contribute” to the community.

Pastor Choice sees a great need for mentoring for young people and support for families. The church envisions “Reclaiming lives, Restoring Families, Transforming Communities.” For Pastor Choice, in addition to his ministry at ECC, living out this vision includes his mentoring through Y.E.M.B.A. (Youth Educational Mentoring Basketball Association), which offers programming at Gwendolyn Brooks and Percy Julian Middle Schools in Oak Park.

Describing the decision to start a new church, Pastor Choice explained, “People have a spiritual need to experience the love of God and Jesus. Even with all the churches available, there is still a need. There are more people who are not in church than there are in church. God graced us with the passion to meet that challenge.” At ECC, that means a community of “people who love people--who hug them, love them, and welcome them; people who are excited to be together and be a representation of the love of Jesus; and people who are challenged to engage with and serve their community.” Long term, ECC envisions having a permanent worship space that serves as a gathering place for its vibrant and welcoming community to host a variety of community service partners and organizations.

Engage Christian Church will be Engaging God through Worship at 10 a.m. Sunday Services at Beye Elementary School, 230 N. Cuyler Ave. Oak Park, IL 60302 starting Sunday, April 2. For More Information: Call us at 708-405-9605. Visit us at engagecc.org. Email us at info@engagecc.org.

We loved you so much that we were delighted to share with you not only the gospel of God but our lives as well, because you had become so dear to us. 1 Thessalonians 2:8

Wednesday Journal, March 29, 2017

OAKPARK.COM | RIVERFOREST.COM

13

Annual Brooks Jazz Night features seasoned talents

April 6 event pairs professional musicians with students

By MICHAEL ROMAIN Staff Reporter

Since its founding in 2007, the annual Brooks Jazz Night has been attracting performers one might expect to see in large concert venues, not middle school auditoriums.

Jazz at Brooks, however, isn’t your typical grammar school music department program, said music instructor James Barnard.

“I think we’re in a very unique situation,” said Barnard in an interview last week.

“We’ve been able to evolve a very strong jazz program here, as well as at Julian. Students get a solid foundation with music theory and instrumentation skills. We also teach them jazz improvisation during a clinic that has a blues foundation.”

During the 10th Annual Jazz Night on April 6, that range of instruction will be on display as the school’s Jazz Lab Band, Jazz Ensemble and its Barbershop, Beauty Shop and Shoppettes vocal ensembles come together to perform alongside professional musicians Mardra and Reggie Thomas.

Mardra, who’s become well-known for her theatrical portrayal of Billie Holiday, was the opening act of Dizzy Gillespie’s 70th Birthday Concert. She has also shared the stage with the famous jazz trumpeter Clark Terry.

Reggie is the coordinator of jazz studies at Northern Illinois University, having served three years before that as a professor of jazz piano at Michigan State University and 20 years as a professor of music at South Illinois University Edwardsville. He’s also a longtime consultant and clinician for Jazz at Lincoln Center.

“It’s so inspiring for me as a teacher to have these quintessential professionals working with our students,” said Barnard.

April 6 will be a full day for Brooks jazz musicians, with three hours of rehearsal, improv and vocal clinics before the students perform alongside the professionals during a performance that starts at 7 p.m. After the professionals and students share the stage, Barnard said, Mardra and Reggie will have the stage to themselves.

Barnard taught in urban schools in St. Louis before coming to Oak Park. The experience, he said, proved influential enough that it became something of a model for the program at Brooks.

“In St. Louis, I had close access to jazz musicians and other people on the jazz scene,” he said. “Oak Park is really close to downtown Chicago, so a lot of professional jazz musicians are really accessible.”

The first Jazz Night in 2007 featured Shirley King, daughter of the late blues singer, songwriter and guitarist B.B. King, and a longtime resident of Oak Park. Since then, Barnard said, the annual night has hosted premier jazz artists such as the percussion-

JAZZ MENTORS: Professional musicians Mardra and Reggie Thomas will work and perform with middle-school students.

ist Ruben Alvarez, singer Typhanie Monique, and the Elmhurst College Jazz Band.

The 10th Annual Brooks Jazz Night will take place at 7 p.m., Saturday, April 6, at Gwendolyn Brooks Middle School Auditorium, 325 S. Kenilworth Ave. Admission for the evening concert is $10 for adult and $5 for students 16 years and under. You can purchase tickets online and reserve them at the door by visiting https://oakpark. revtrak.net/Middle-Schools/Brooks/Middle-School/BMS-Jazz-Night/#/list.

CONTACT: michael@oakpark.com

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Wednesday Journal, March 29, 2017

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“We’re hoping it’s a sign that Illinois Supreme Court appeal sooner or later we’ll hear from the court that the petition [for the court from page 1 to hear the case] is denied.”

ELECTION

NONEWTAXES JUSTSAYNO!

Vote NO

on the D97 Referendums Vote NO on April 4th

If the OPERATING referendum passes, your yearly property tax bill will INCREASE BY 9%*.

You will pay this increase – all of it – this August!

Cut the WASTE from the school budget BEFORE asking for more money.

D97 must show the taxpayers that our schools can be prudent in their use of our tax dollars.

Vote NO www.facebook.com/D97VoteNo/

STOP

what will likely be upwards of a $1,000 or even $2,000 property tax increase for many Oak Park homeowners. (the increase will be $740 per $10,000 on your bill)

STOP the dramatic increases in rent that this tax increase will cause for thousands of apartment dwellers. *see the article by the Oak Park Township Assessor at: oakpark.com/News/Articles/3-7-2017/Oak-Park-assessed-values-increase-by-24%25/

This ad paid for by: Bruce Kleinman, Amanda Massie & Val Peiler

Taleb.

The incomplete slate — incumbent trustees Glenn Brewer and Peter Barber and clerk candidate Lori Malinski — have also faced an ongoing and costly challenge to its nominating petition, which they say has cost them time and money that could have been used in the campaign.

Barber and Brewer face political newcomers Dan Moroney, Deno Andrews and Simone Boutet, while Malinksi faces Elia Gallegos, James Robinson-Parran, Victoria Scaman and Masaru Takiguchi.

The nominating petition challengers, Kevin Peppard and Bob Milstein, have argued that Malinski, Barber and Brewer, collected their nominating petition signatures improperly as a group and did not collect enough signatures in the first place — each candidate needed 251 signatures individually, but the three candidates instead collected 735 signatures as a group. Peppard and Milstein, represented by attorney Burt Odelson of Odelson & Sterk, have consistently lost at each level in their ballot challenge, with a local election board and subsequent appeals courts ruling in favor of the candidates.

Most recently, Peppard and Milstein have petitioned the Illinois Supreme Court to hear the case, but it’s still uncertain if the state’s highest court will accept the case or let the lower court ruling stand.

On March 24, the state’s highest court rejected a motion to expedite deliberation on Peppard and Milstein’s lawsuit.

The decision to deny the motion to expedite could be good news for the candidates, according to their attorney Brian Wojcicki.

“We’re hoping it’s a sign that sooner or later we’ll hear from the court that the petition [for the court to hear the case] is denied,” Wojcicki said.

He added that the court could soon announce its decision or it could come after the election itself.

The Supreme Court also ruled against a motion that would instruct Cook County

BRIAN WOJCICKI Attorney

Clerk David Orr to not count votes until after the court makes a final decision on the case.

That means that if the Supreme Court does take the case, votes will be counted and a winner will be announced once those votes are certified.

If the court does take the case, deliberation could extend beyond April 4, which means that if Barber, Brewer and Malinski win, the decision could be reversed if the court later determined they should have not been on the ballot in the first place.

Odelson could not immediately be reached for comment.

CONTACT: tim@oakpark.com

Join the conversation Please send Letters to the Editor to ■ mktrainork@wjinc.com or ■ Wednesday Journal, 141 S. Oak Park Ave., Oak Park, IL 60302 Include name, address and daytime phone number for verification.

I always fetch the Wednesday Journal!

Wednesday Journal, March 29, 2017

OAKPARK.COM | RIVERFOREST.COM

TAPSTER

Robots in the Arts District from page 1 He took that model and created Tapster, which goes beyond the software that virtually tests touchscreen apps for bugs, and uses a robotic finger to physically tap the devices.

“Literally it’s a robotic finger,” he said during a recent tour of the new studio. “Any company that makes a mobile device, a mobile phone – the Apples, the Samsungs, the Nokias of the world – they all have these secret robot labs of robotic fingers tapping to make sure the devices work and WILLIAM CAMARGO/Staff Photographer the applications … running on those devices work.”

The rise of touchscreens in automobiles and other de- MECHANICAL MUSIC: A robot made at Tapster Robotics vices – known these days as the internet of things – also is plays a piano app. keeping business thriving at Tapster, Huggins said.

Building robots that tap on tiny screens to make sure they for how many robots were dancing the robot dance?’”

Huggins said he began checking with folks at the Guinwork is just part of what Huggins and company are up to at ness Book of World Records about a year ago. Back then Tapster.

Huggins said he’s working now to put Oak Park on the there was no such record – but things change quickly in the world of technology. map for breaking the world record for – prepare About a year later, the record for dancing yourself to be amazed – dancing robots. robots all in one place – not necessarily dancMeg Nelligan, Tapster’s chief operating officer, ing “The Robot” – has been set by a company tells Wednesday Journal that the robotics company ■ To watch our video in China and then broken by another Chinese also has been educating kids on robotics basics by company, Huggins said, noting that the record teaching them to build their own dancing robots.

VISIT OAKPARK.COM currently stands at 1,007.

The so-called dance-bots move their arms and It takes only 50 dancing robots to establish heads in a way that resembles the once-popular dance known as “The Robot.” That got the Tapster team think- the record, a number Tapster could have managed, but now that the record is more than 1,000 robots, Huggins said Taping, Nelligan said.

“The dance-bot is fun and it’s a great educational tool, but ster is “trying to figure out a way to pay for it.”

They’re thinking of trying to pay for the project through we’ve been wondering, ‘What can we do with it as a company?’” she said. “Jason got the idea of, ‘Is there a world record the online fundraiser website Kickstarter, he said.

WEB EXTRA

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Dancing robot breaking world records isn’t the only imaginative pursuit at Tapster. Huggins also is working on a robotic pin art project that would automate thousands of pins to resemble the pin-art desk toys sold in gift shops.

“Pin art or pin screen is the name of the desk toy,” he said.

“The idea is, ‘What if you could motorize every single one of those pins?’”

That would allow Huggins to program the screen to replicate any 3-dimensional object – think downtown Manhattan, the Grand Canyon or even a game of Asteroids – he said.

He’s still working on the prototype to make sure the pins are reliable and don’t stick or break.

“In some future version I’ll have to figure out, OK now that I’ve made one, how do I make 10,000 of these things; that’s the trick,” he said.

While Oak Park is not known as a hub for technology companies, Huggins said he decided to locate here, rather than Silicon Valley, largely because of the lower costs and greater amenities Oak Park and Chicago have to offer over the west coast.

“I think the cost of living (in Silicon Valley), specifically real estate, is just completely out of control,” he said. “There are many ways to solve (the problem of cost) but the way I solved it was by moving away.”

Rather than putting his money in overpriced land in the Bay Area, Huggins said he chose to invest the money in 3-D printers and equipment.

“We’re in a walkable neighborhood, the Buzz Café is awesome and our kids can walk to school, so everything we need is here,” he said. “Yes, the winters are cold, but you put on a hat and a winter coat and you’re good.”

Tapster, Happy Apple and a local architecture firm are the newest tenants of the building that previously was La Majada, a Mexican food restaurant that closed in April 2014.

The façade of the building was redone and a gut rehab of the structure subdivided it for multiple uses.

CONTACT: tim@oakpark.com

16

Wednesday Journal, March 29, 2017

OAKPARK.COM | RIVERFOREST.COM

C R I M E

Jeff

weissglass

for District 200 Board of Education

VOTE APRIL 4th

Cathy Adduci Jeannie Affelder Jonathan Alpert Fred Arkin Dan Baker Spencer Baker Donna Barrows Niranjana Bashyal Ram Bashyal Constance Bauer Tom Bearrows Kelly Benkert Jack Bizot Jeff Blaine Sue Blaine Alec Bloyd-Peshkin Sharon BloydPeshkin Jamil Bou-Saab David Boulanger Mena Boulanger John Boyle Belinda Bremner Therese Brennock Rob Breymaier Bruce Broerman Cheryl Capps Lee Capps Jennifer Cassell Susan Charrette Craig Chesney Mike Ciacciarelli Karen Cofsky Tom Cofsky Lisa Colpoys Dana Connell Emma Connell Hannah Connell Joe Connell

John Conroy Matt Conti Susan Conti Ann Courter Bruce Cox Gloria Cox Ken Cozette Robin Cozette Michael Cramer Laura Crawford Erica Cuneen Gary Cuneen Wendy Daniels Rupa Datta Eric Davis Colette Davison John Duffy Rick Easty Benjamin Ellenbogen Paul Ellenbogen Harlene Ellin Marge Epstein Mark Fields Gail Fisher Melissa Ford Bob Foster Marilyn Foster Scott Frankel Jonathan Franklin Wayne Franklin Renee Garrett James Gates Louise Gates Angie Gershenson Eric Gershenson Steve Gevinson David Gilbert Shannon Giles

proven leadership

www.WeissglassforD200.org Join these community members voting to reelect Jeff Weissglass to the OPRF High School Board.

Sheri Gilley Lisa Ginet Matthew Girson Galen Gockel Marge Gockel Clare Golla Deborah Gorman-Smith Neil Goulden Sanford Greenberg Bill Greffin Judy Greffin Julie Griffin Karin Grimes Jon Hale Mary Haley Elizabeth Halpern Melanie Halverson Robert Halverson Anna Harlan Alec Harris Clarice Harris Cynthia Harris John Harris Austin Harton Michelle Harton Barbara Hausman Andrew Hibel Elizabeth Hibel Lynnae Hill Norman Hirsch David Holmes Suzanne Holmes Beth Houle Alicia Hurtado Cheryle Hurtado Patricia Inman Craig Iseli Margaret Janavicius

Denise Jeffries Lorinzo Jeffries Margaret Jeschke Preston Jones Julie Justicz Andrew Kaczkowski Gary Kagan Carrie Kalina Sophie Kaluziak Lynn Kamenitsa Amy Kaufman Laura Kaufman Mark Kaufman Jim Kelly Jennifer Kennedy Kate King Warren King J. Martin Konecki Ed Kucaba Liz Kucaba Elisa Lapine Karen Latham Nancy Leavy Julie Ledogar Mark Ledogar Charlotte Lee Ralph Lee Rebekah Levin David Levine Lynn Libera Alex Lippitt Elizabeth Lippitt Colette Lueck Didier Marin Jeff Martens David McCammond-Watts Heather McCammond-Watts

Mike McGarry Kari McGrath Lise McKean Alice Fox McMahon Margot McMahon Melanie McQueen Greg Meadors Chris Meister Richard Mertz Alix Mikesell Bart Miller Christine Mondragon Jackie Moore Merrick Moore-Fields Kathy Moriarty Marc Mosher Laurie Myers Lourdes Nicholls Peter Nolan Jennifer Norborg Hannah O’Connor Jim O’Connor Ken Orenic Liesl Orenic Marcia Palazzolo Tom Palazzolo Steve Parker Emily Paster Bill Peterman Amy Phelan John Phelan Tom Philion Ellen Pimentel Ed Pont Sheila Pont David Pope Debby Preiser

Jan Pyrce Ruth Rankin Cate Readling Chip Readling Elliot Regenstein John Roberts Katie Roberts Diana Rosenbrock Meg Ross Renee Rotatori Alyssa Ryan Peter Ryan Jeffrey Schaider Anna Chavez Schaider Han Schiet Catherine Schneider Sara K. Schneider Mary Jo Schuler Stephen Schuler Sarah Shirk Sharon Sih Marion Sirefman Brian Sklar Joanna Skubish Gary Smith Polly Smith Stacia Smith Ellen Somberg Lisa Sorensen Bob Spatz Sara Spivy Holly Spurlock Jamie Stanesa Todd Stern Karen Steward-Nolan Mary Stewart Sheryl Stoller

Walter Stoller Michael Stutz Rick Sumner Mas Takiguchi Terry Tennes Maggie Testore John Frederick Troelstrup Bob Tucker Vicki Tucker Matthew Tushman Nancy Tushman Holly Van Deursen Stephanie VanDerSchie Victor Vanek Penny Wallingford Tedd Warden Ann Warden Curt Warner Debbie Weeks Kyle Weeks Thomas Weigel Judy Weik Charlotte-Alyss Weissglass Mark Weissglass Deborah Wess Karin West Jim Whalen Alison White Joan White Brett Williams Sarah Williams Joan Winstein Bruce Wojack Kim Wojack Roy Wollen Reggie Wright Michele Zurakowski

Paid for by the Weissglass for D200 political committee. A copy of our report filed with the State Board of Elections is (or will be) available on the Board’s official website (www.elections.il.gov) or for purchase from the State Board of Elections, Springfield, Illinois.

Burglar breaks in, ransacks cars A residence was burglarized in the 1100 block of South East Avenue sometime between 4 a.m. on March 19 and 8 a.m. on March 20.

The burglar gained entry to the residence through an unlocked door and then ransacked the interior, stealing a wallet, miscellaneous credit cards, a set of keys, instruments and various jewelry. They then used the stolen keys to gain entry to the garage where they used the keys to gain entry to a black 2002 Lexus RX300 and a gold 1999 Cadillac DeVille.

The estimated loss was $15,000.

Theft A mailed package was stolen from the front vestibule of a building in the 400 block of South Taylor Avenue sometime between 1:30 and 2 p.m. on March 2. The package contained an Advair inhaler valued at $360.

Burglary to motor vehicle A gray 2010 Toyota Camry was burglarized in the 900 block of South Taylor Avenue sometime between noon on March 20 and 7:45 a.m. on March 21. The burglar used a pry tool to the rear driver side window to gain entry to the vehicle. Once inside, the offender removed cash. The estimated loss was $101.

Criminal trespass to land arrest A 27-year-old man from the first block of North Lockwood Avenue in the Chicago neighborhood of Austin, was arrested in the 800 block of Madison Street at 9:32 a.m. on March 21 and charged with criminal trespass to land. He was transported to the Oak Park police station, processed and released on an I-Bond. No additional information was given.

Burglary from motor vehicle A white 2015 Subaru Forester was burglarized in the 800 block of South Humphrey Avenue sometime between 8 p.m. on March 19 and 5 p.m. on March 20. The burglar entered through an unlocked door and ransacked the interior, stealing a Buck custom made knife. The estimated loss was $150.

These items, obtained from the Oak Park and River Forest police departments, came from reports, March 19 and 21, and represent a portion of the incidents to which police responded. Anyone named in these reports has only been charged with a crime and cases have not yet been adjudicated. We report the race of a suspect only when a serious crime has been committed, the suspect is still at large, and police have provided us with a detailed physical description of the suspect as they seek the public’s help in making an arrest.

Compiled by Timothy Inklebarger

Wednesday Journal, March 29, 2017

OAKPARK.COM | RIVERFOREST.COM

D97 and 200 pass welcoming resolutions

Procedures for responding to federal immigration authorities

By MICHAEL ROMAIN Staff Reporter

Districts 97 and 200 both approved resolutions earlier this month declaring schools in those districts to be safe and welcoming for students and their families as it relates to immigration enforcement or discrimination based on immigration status.

The measures were implemented in light of President Donald Trump’s election last November and his recent executive orders calling for more aggressive deportation efforts. The White House has also threatened to withhold federal funding from local governments that will not cooperate with federal authorities in carrying out the president’s demands.

Both Oak Park school districts adopted resolutions that are similar in language and impact. Both reinforce already existing policies, which prohibit employees, contractors, representatives or volunteers from requiring students to produce immigration-related documentation or asking about students’

“They must have a criminal warrant authorizing them to enter the premises.”

D200 RESOLUTION

up to the adoption of the two resolutions centered on how officials would respond if U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents showed up at a school for enforcement purposes.

According to a 2011 policy implemented

by ICE, schools are designated “sensitive locations,” with the agency’s officers directed to enter them for “arrests, interviews, searches, and surveillance” only in the most extreme circumstances, according to D200’s resolution.

According to D97’s resolution, which was adopted at a regular board meeting on March 14, “ICE officers or any other law enforcement personnel or entity should not enter District 97 schools for immigration law enforcement purposes without permission of the Superintendent who, prior to granting permission, will take the emotional and physical safety of students and staff into consideration” by asking officers their reasons for entry and requesting the necessary legal documentation.

The D200 resolution states that “designated school administrators” will notify them “that they must have a criminal warrant authorizing them to enter the premises,” determine that the documentation was issued by a judge “and not an ICE supervisor,” make sure the document is a court-issued warrant signed by a judge and request that

JAC KIE MOORE immigration status.

And unless they are required by federal, state or local law, anyone affiliated with the districts is prohibited from using their resources to try to assist in the apprehension of unlawful immigrants.

Both resolutions state that districts 97 and 200 will continue the provision of “confidential counseling to all students, including those who fear what might happen to them or family members due to their immigration status or lack thereof,” according to the D200 resolution, which was approved at a regular board meeting on March 21. The districts will also refer those students to community resources.

Much of the discussion among school board members in both districts leading

the ICE agent “execute the arrest outside school grounds.”

Districts 97 and 200 joined the village of Oak Park, Evanston Township High School District 202, Evanston/Skokie School District 65, Proviso Township High School District 209, and Chicago Public Schools in adopting immigration-related resolutions or special ordinances in recent months.

CONTACT: michael@oakpark.com

Join the conversation Please send Letters to the Editor to ■ ktrainor@wjinc.com or ■ Wednesday Journal, 141 S. Oak Park Ave., Oak Park, IL 60302 Include name, address and daytime phone number for verification.

FOR DISTRICT 200 BOARD OF EDUCATION

MOORE JAC KIE JAC MOORE JACKIE KIEMOORE

SSIONATE LEADERSHIP FOR EXCELLENCE IN EDUCATION PAID ADVERTISEMENT

ring Jackie’s First Term

Why Jackie is Seeking Re-election

Jackie’s active involvement in the community includes her current role as vice-president of the district 200 Led a community inclusive retreat focused • To continue working with the district for school board. She has lived in Oak Park for 22 on school climate equitable, quality instruction years where she and her husband Mark have raised Focused the Board on restorative practices • To nurture student leadership and 4 children. Their two sons are OPRFHS grads and to eliminate discipline disparities advocacy their twin daughters are seniors at the high school.

Hired experienced Superintendent P A S S I O N A T E L E A D E R S H I P • F O RTo implement sustainable policies insuring EXCELLENCE IN EDUCATION Jackie has a PhD in Developmental Studies from the to provide courageous leadership in P A S PS AI OS NS IAOT NE A TL EE A DL EE AR DS EH RI PS H IF PO R F OE RX C EE XL LC EE NL LC EE Nthat all of our students benefit from a IC NE IEND U EC DA UT CI OA NT I O N University of California-Los Angeles. She has worked addressing equity & achievement needs of challenging, Jackie’s active involvement in the community includes During Jackie’s First Term Why Jackie isrigorous education where Seeking Re-election as a researcher the Institute for Juvenile Research her currentincludes role as vice-president of the districtat200 our student body Jackie’sJackie’s active involvement in the community During Jackie’s First TermTerm • Led a community inclusive retreat focused Why Why JackieJackie is Seeking • Re-election To continue working with the district for active involvement in the community includes During Jackie’s First isthey feel supported and are equipped for Seeking Re-election board. has at livedUniversity in Oak Park forof22Illinois- Chicago and Chapin Hall at her current role as role vice-president ofschool the district 200She 200 on school climate Oversaw board directed pilot projects her current as vice-president of the district equitable, quality instruction postsecondary success • Led a community inclusive retreat focused years where she and her husband Mark have raised • Led a community inclusive retreat focused • To continue working with the district for • To continue working with the district for school board.

She has lived in Oak Park for 22 • Focused the Board on restorative practices school board. She has lived in Oak Park for 22 • To nurture student leadership and on school climate theareUniversity equitable, quality instruction on peer mentoring and social emotional on school climate 4 children.

Their two sons OPRFHS gradsof andChicago developing and evaluating equitable, • quality instruction To insure our financial priorities exemplify years where andshe herand husband Mark have to eliminate discipline disparities years she where her husband Markraised have raised advocacy • Focused the Board on restorative practices • To nurture student leadership and • Focused the Board on restorative practices • To nurture student leadership and their twinand daughters seniors at thefor highat-risk school. families. Jackie’s passion for 4 children.

Their two sonstwoaresons OPRFHS grads programs learning to eliminate discipline disparities 4 children.

Their are OPRFHS grads and are • Hired experienced Superintendent • To implement sustainable policies insuring adequate facilities advocacy to eliminate discipline disparities advocacy our belief that safe, Jackie has a PhD in Developmental Studies from the their twin daughters are seniors at the high school. their twin daughters are seniors at the high school. improving education to provide courageous leadership in • Hired experienced Superintendent that all of our students benefit from a • To implement sustainable policies insuring • Hired experienced Superintendent is evident in her volunteer efforts • To implement sustainable policies insuring Approved expanded student support are essential for a quality,

learning Jackie has a PhD ina PhD Developmental StudiesStudies from the University of California-Los Angeles.

She has worked Jackie has in Developmental from the to provide courageous leadership in addressing equity & achievement needs of that all of our students benefit from a challenging, rigorous education where to provide courageous leadership in that all of our students benefit from a University of California-Los Angeles.

She has worked as a researcher at the Institute for Juvenile Research University of California-Los Angeles. She has workedon the boards of Thrive Counseling Center, Sarah’s Inn servicesaddressing equity & achievement needs of our student body challenging, rigorous education where environment they feel supported and are equipped for addressing equity & achievement needs of challenging, rigorous education where as a researcher at the Institute for Juvenile Research at University ofResearch Illinois- Chicago and Chapin Hall at our student body as a researcher at the Institute for Juvenile they feel supported and are equipped for • Oversaw board directed pilot projects postsecondary success our student body they feel supported and are equipped for Studied and intensely deliberated and the Collaboration for Early Childhood. She also at University of IllinoisChicagoChicago andtheChapin Hall atofHall • Oversaw board directed pilot projects University Chicago at University of Illinoisand Chapin at developing and evaluating postsecondary success on peer mentoring and social emotional • Oversaw board directed pilot projects • To insure our financial priorities exemplify postsecondary success the University of Chicago developing and evaluating on peer mentoring and social emotional • To insure our financial priorities exemplify the University of Chicago developing and evaluating proposals to replace aging pools and programs for at-risk families.

Jackie’s for team to transform the OPRFHS PTO worked withpassion a core on peer mentoring and social emotional learning • To insure our financial priorities exemplify our belief that safe, adequate facilities programs for at-risk Jackie’s passionpassion for for is evident in her volunteer efforts learning Connect with Jackie our belief that safe, adequate facilities programs for families. at-risk families.

Jackie’s learning • Approved expanded student support improving education our belief that safe, adequate facilities are essential for a quality, improving learning establish a long term facilities plan into Parents for Student Success whose mission is to education is evident in her volunteer efforts efforts • Approved expanded student support are essential for a quality, learning improving education is evident in her volunteer • Approved expanded student support are essential for a quality, learning on the boards of Thrive Counseling Center, Sarah’s Inn services environment on the boards of Thrive Counseling Center, Sarah’s Inn services environment on the boards of Thrive Counseling Center, Sarah’s Inn services • Studied and intensely deliberated Promoted transparency in communications environment student achievement, foster communication and the Collaboration highlight for Early Childhood.

She also • Studied and intensely deliberated theand Collaboration for EarlyforChildhood.

She alsoShe also Moore for and D200 • Studied and intensely deliberated the Collaboration Early Childhood. proposals to replace aging pools and worked with a core team to transform the OPRFHS PTO in order to give light to the complex proposals to replace aging pools and with a core transform the OPRFHS PTO PTO with teachers and increase public support for the high Connect with Jackie workedworked proposals to replace aging pools and with team a coretoteam to transform the OPRFHS Connect with with JackieJackie establish a long term facilities plan into mission Parents for Student Success whose mission is to Connect establish a long term facilities plan into Parents for Student Success whose is to establish a long term facilities plan into Parents for Student Success whose mission is to trade-offs required to balance the needs • Promoted transparency in communications school.foster communication highlight student achievement, • Promoted transparency in communications highlight studentstudent achievement, foster communication jmoored200@gmail.com • Promoted transparency in communications Moore for D200 highlight achievement, foster communication Moore for D200 Moore for D200 in order to give light to the complex with teachers and increase public support for the high in order to give light to the complex of our students with the concerns of our with teachers and increase public support for the high in order to give light to the complex with teachers and increase public support for the high trade-offs required to balance the needs trade-offs required to balance the needs school. school. trade-offs required to balance the needs jmoored200@gmail.com jmoored200@gmail.com school. taxpayers. jmoored200@gmail.com HIGH EXPECTATIONS HIGH ACHIEVEMENT of our students with the concerns of our of our students with the concerns of our of our students with the concerns of our

FOR DISTRICT 200 F OF OR RBD ODI SAI TSRRTDRI OCI FTC ET2D20U0C0A T I O N B OB AO RA DR DO FO EF DE UD CUAC TAITOI N ON

taxpayers. taxpayers.

taxpayers.

17

H I G H HEIXGPHE CETXAPTEICOTNAST IHOINGSH HHAIIGCGHHHI EEAVXCEHPMIEEECVNTETAMT EI ON NT S H I G H A C H I E V E M E N T

18

Wednesday Journal, March 29, 2017

OAKPARK.COM | RIVERFOREST.COM

Moroney for Trustee

Supporter List Vote Dan Moroney on

April 4th!

Amy Moroney Howard & Anne Adelstein Betsy & Steve Adelstein Art Albores Ed & Elizabeth Amstutz Deno Andrews Mr. & Mrs. Fred Arkin Neal & Esther Armstrong Jeff Arnold Mike & Karen Baldwin Todd Bannor Michelle & Ted Barnes Matt & Bridgett Baron Marty Bernstein Jonathan & Joanne Biag Courtenay Harris-Black Michael & Blagica Bottigliero Rachel & Rick Boultinghouse Fred L. Brandstrader The Brooks Family Beth Burdin Robert F. Burke Jim “Gubbie” Butler Jim & Madeleine Butler Deirdre Byrne Dora Calkins Cara Carmody Tom Carraher Terry Clancy Ronald & Blanche E. Clark Jason Clary Mary Ann Bender & Thomas Coates Debbie Cohen Faith & Travis Cole Lyn Connif Jack Crowe Dan & Mindy Cultra Jennifer Czajka Sunil D’Souza Jonathan Daniel Jim Darley Matt & Jill Dauphinee Bill Dawson Mary & Jeff Degrazia Karen Doty Mike & Trudy Doyle Kevin & Julie Duff Kathy Egan Mary Elworth David Enderle Larry Feldt Carolina & Mike Fenske Susan Carroll Fenske Thomas & Jennifer Finn Linda Francis Jeanne & John Gallo Michelle Geye Michael Gillis Jeff Gillman & Michelle Siu TK & Lauren Giorango Galen Gockel The Goeke Family Clare & Adam Golla

Chris Griffith Susan Grotewald Jeff Hackett Kellie Halsted Scott Brian & Christen Hammersley Ed Hartman Greer & Carl Haseman Amy & Arend Henderson Terry & Carol Herbstritt Molly & Cal Hong Todd & Cheryl Hover Nathan Howell Frank & Annette Hulefeld Doug Hyman & Erin Taback Larry Hymson Marc Imowitz David & Soumya Jaggi Sheila & Kenneth E. Javor Muriel Jean-Jacques Michelle Jensen Joe Girard Oscar & Venus Johnson Bernard Judge Rita & Todd Kahn James Kelly & Bruce Broerman Matt Kemper Amy Ketchum Lisa Kiker Sarah King Tony Kirk Troy Koch & DiAne Boese Charlie & Ann Kohler J. Martin Konecki Paul & Katie Korrison Ann & Carl Kreiter Tom Kunkel Claude L’Heureux Laura Lallos Anne & Andy Lane Erin Rinne Lucas Jean Magee Colleen Maia Darcy & Rich Majka Bill & Ellen Maliff Aaron Walters & Jennifer Malone Chris Marzec & Maggie Kelly Jorg Maser Eric Masoncup Kathleen Masters Chris May & Margo Thomas-May Nancy & Mark McDermott Clare McDermott & Neil Young Don McLean Jennifer & Scott McMillan Jennifer McNulty Matt & Lisa Mitchell Christine & Drew Mitchell April Ross Moon Gabriela Moroney Domenica Moroney Mike & Liz Moroney Karen Mullarkey-Kerrins Paid for by Moroney For Trustee

Steven Nasralla Brendan Nelligan Sara & Jack Neuner Chris & Rhonda Neville Jack & Rosemarie Nowicki Michael & Jessica Nowicki Paul Nowicki Hannah & Jim O’Connor Frank & Anita O’Hara Gary & Kristi Osga Ed & MaryAnn Owen Ed & Jodi Pacer Christopher Payne Sue & Steve Peters Talia & Gabe Plotkin Rick & Anne Plotz Carol Price Zenobia Puckett Joe & Cathy Raschke Rowan Richards Megan Rische Terrence & Dot Roche Chris & Kelly Rogala Pam Rogers Donna Rolf Jennifer Ruland Michael Rutkowski Oliver & Andrea Sabistana Paul Saylor Vicki Scaman Mark Schottler Eli & Emily Schultz Patti Schwab Brian Shamhart Beth Hesse Siegel Patricia Skinner Ginger Slade Carrol A. M. Smith Farah & Matt Speer Mike & Chrissy Stamm Laura K. Stamp Brady & Kelly Stein Gary & Janet Steiner Linda Sahagian & Douglas Stewart Michael Stewart Fran Sullivan Kathy Sullivan Bill & Cheryl Sullivan Tom Sundling Mark Talluto Chuck Thomason Jeff & Ada Tikkanen Greg Turkot Anastasia & Todd Valentine Danielle Villari Swets Rakhi Wadhwa Thambi Harry Walsh Melissa & Chris Watters Joel & Victoria Wipf Tina Yokota Josh & Sara Yount Diane Zimmer Fascione

WILLIAM CAMARGO/Staff Photographer

SCRATCHING THAT ITCH: Owner Patrick O’Brien says the new Scratch on Lake is about three times the size of the Forest Park location.

Scratch on Lake open for lunch

Plan to install retractable garage door for open-air and patio seating

By TIMOTHY INKLEBARGER Staff Reporter

Scratch on Lake, the new restaurant by Patrick O’Brien, has made it past the soft launch of the restaurant at 733 Lake St. and is now open for lunch.

But that’s not the biggest change coming for the new restaurant, which opened earfor beer, so we were really craft lier this year. beer and food.”

O’Brien said Scratch is a few The new Scratch, however, has weeks away from opening the room for 10 craft beers on draft front of the dining room by inand a bigger wine selection.

■ To watch our video stalling a retractable garage “We’ve got a really great bevdoor in place of the establishVISIT OAKPARK.COM erage program,” he said. “We’ve ment’s front window. come 180 [degrees] on the bar Scratch on Lake is O’Brien’s program.” second restaurant location in the area, and The restaurant has the same menu with a the Oak Park location follows the same modselection of burgers, sandwiches and other el as the original — Scratch Kitchen and dishes.

Lounge in Forest Park.

O’Brien said he chose Forest Park origiThe biggest differences in the new Scratch nally because about 20-25 years ago, it was is that it’s three times bigger than the Formuch more difficult to open a restaurant est Park Scratch and has a bigger bar and in Oak Park. He said development around kitchen, O’Brien said.

Oak Park and the rise in more restaurants In Forest Park, he said, there was no room for kegs or dishwashers, “so it’s all plastic attracted him to open a new location here.

“I watched the building [around town] and and disposable and boxed wine.”

I saw Cooper’s Hawk Winery coming in — “I’m food first and I wanted to have some I’m a big fan of them,” he said. “As I noticed wine and definitely wanted some craft beers, so for many reasons we went with re- what was coming in and all the growth and cyclable plastic goods for eating and drink- all the buildings … I was like, ‘You know ing and cans for recycling [in Forest Park],” they need something more casual.’”

CONTACT: tim@oakpark.com he said. “We could still offer over 100 choices

WEB EXTRA

Wednesday Journal, March 29, 2017

OAKPARK.COM | RIVERFOREST.COM

Religion Guide Methodist

Check First.

First United Methodist Church of Oak Park

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 (708) 697-5000

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. Jenny Weber, Pastor Professionally Staffed Nursery Fellowship Time after Worship Presbyterian

Fair Oaks

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. www.unitedlutheranchurch.org

708/386-1576

Sunday Service 7AM, 9AM & 11:15AM

LIVE Webcast - 11:15AM Service 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)

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

PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH

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

Roman Catholic

St. Bernardine Catholic Church Harrison & Elgin, Forest Park

CELEBRATING OUR 105TH 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–Friday 6:30am Church Office: 708-366-0839 CCD: 708-366-3553 www.stbern.com Pastor: Fr. Stanislaw Kuca Traditional Catholic

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

The Traditional Catholic Latin Mass

Our Lady Immaculate Church 410 Washington Blvd Oak Park. 708-524-2408 Mass Times: Sat. 8:00am Sun. 7:30 & 10:00am Operated by Society of St. Pius X. Confessions 1 hr. before each mass

Third Unitarian Church 11am Service: “Celebration of Life” thirdunitarianchurch.org (773) 626-9385 301 N. Mayfield near Austin and Lake

Grace Lutheran School

www.livingwd.org www.billwinston.org

Preschool - 8th Grade Bill Koehne, Principal 366-6900, graceriverforest.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

Lutheran-Missouri Synod

Christ Lutheran Church

607 Harvard Street (at East Av.) Oak Park, Illinois Rev. Robert M. Niehus, Pastor Sunday Bible Class: 9:15 am Sunday School: 9:10 Sunday Worship Services: 8:00 and 10:30 am Church Office: 708/386-3306 www.christlutheranoakpark.org Lutheran-Missouri Synod

St. John Evangelical Lutheran Church

305 Circle Ave, Forest Park Sunday Worship, 8:30 am and 11:00 am Adult Bible Class, 10:00 am Wheelchair Access to Sanctuary Leonard Payton, Pastor Roney Riley, Assistant Pastor 708-366-3226 | www.stjohnforestpark.org

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 Holy Hour 6:00 pm Third Thursdays

Rev. James Hurlbert, Pastor

Roman Catholic

St. Edmund Catholic Church

188 South Oak Park Ave. Saturday Masses: 8:30 a.m. & 5:30 p.m.

Sunday Masses: 9:00 & 11:00 a.m. & 5:30 p.m.

Weekday Mass: 8:30 a.m.

Holy Day Masses: As Announced Reconciliation: Saturday 4:15 p.m.

Parish Office: 708-848-4417 School Phone: 708-386-5131

See what all the buzz is about.

Unity

UNITY CHURCH OF OAK PARK 405 North Euclid Ave.

With Spirit as my guide, I take charge of my life.

Sunday Services 9 am & 11 am Youth Education 11 am 708-848-0960 — unityoakpark.org

Sign up today for our Breaking News Emails

Upcoming Religious Holidays April 1 Lazarus Saturday 2 Palm Sunday 5 Ramanavami

9 Palm Sunday

10 Mahavir Jayanti

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

Orthodox Christian Orthodox Christian Hindu

Christian

Jain

OakPark.com ForestParkReview.com

19

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Wednesday Journal, March 29, 2017

OAKPARK.COM | RIVERFOREST.COM

Performing Arts Center

Two face off as write-ins for River Forest clerk

Both candidates have been involved in youth, school activities

By DEBORAH KADIN Contributing Reporter

Art by Tommy Ingberg

April 6-9, 2017 Thursday Preview 7:00 p.m.

Friday and Saturday 7:30 p.m. // Sunday 3:00 p.m.

Martin Recital Hall // Tickets $17

Waiting for Godot

By Samuel Beckett A tragicomedy of wordplay about mankind’s inexhaustible search for meaning.

events.dom.edu

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An Oak Park Tradition A

classic American Bistro setting makes us the

perfect destination for any occasion. Share appetizers with friends, enjoy a relaxed dinner for 2, just a glass of wine or late-night dessert and cappuccino.

Two River Forest residents vying as writein candidates for village clerk have similar community involvement credentials.

Kathleen White and Calvin Davis have been involved in school and youth-centered activities.

Now they want to parlay their skills and knowledge and engage in the lone-voting role on the board of trustees. The winner would replace Sharon Halperin, who served for one four-year term.

Both say they understand the responsibilities of the position.

“The clerk will attend and call the role for all meetings, work with village staff to ensure that the agenda and meeting minutes are prepared and distributed,” said White, a health paraeducator at Lyons Township High School. “Records also need to be kept according to law. The clerk is also invited to offer public comments during the opening portion of the meeting.”

Davis agreed, and adding “the clerk is the one person who should always be in attendance at the meetings,” said the commodities broker, who also is running for park district commissioner.

Both also view the clerk as offering information to the public.

“There could be opportunities for [the clerk] to be another unbiased person on the board to be a source of information to the public,” said White, who said she would talk with Village President Catherine Adduci and others before undertaking anything new.

The clerk also should be able to provide “a non-biased explanation of current issues

before the board on a regular basis,” said Davis, who is also running for a seat on the River Forest Park District board.

To tackle the job, if she’s elected, White said she would want to learn the ins and outs about the job and also reach out to the Municipal Clerks of Illinois, a professional association. She would want to make the most of the job, she said.

“Perhaps I could shadow Halperin a bit,” White said. “That would shorten the learning curve.

“It’s a time commitment. It’s important to the governance of River Forest. It could be great if I’m able to do it.”

Being clerk would be a challenge. As far as meeting the challenge, Davis said his approach would be in line with how he accomplished other endeavors.

“Participating as an elected official has always been of interest to me and it will be an honor to serve River Forest in this capacity,” Davis said. “It will be an interesting experience to participate on the other side.

It will offer a new view for me, certainly. I take these responsibilities very seriously and have always followed through and risen to the next challenge.”

W E D N E S D A Y

JOURNAL of Oak Park and River Forest

To run an obituary Please contact Ken Trainor by e-mail: ktrainor@wjinc.com, or fax: 708/524-0447 before Monday at noon.

Please include a photo if possible.

Your “Night out” Resource.

• Gift Certificates available •

RESTAURANT & BAR 151 N. Oak Park Ave. in Oak Park • 708/386-2600

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Wednesday Journal, March 29, 2017

OAKPARK.COM | RIVERFOREST.COM

College asks River Forest to declare itself ‘welcoming’

Undocumented students brought to U.S. as minors say they fear deportation

By DEBORAH KADIN Contributing Reporter

Declaring River Forest a welcoming community could be gaining some momentum, although one village trustee seemed skeptical of the idea and its importance to local college students who would be most affected by it.

During recent candidate forums, trustee candidates incumbent Tom Cargie, Patty Henek and Respicio Vazquez said they would support the move.

Last year, Dominican University reaffirmed its status as a sanctuary campus.

And during the March 13 village board meeting, two students and two administrators from the institution came before trustees to share what the university had done and ask them to consider something similar.

After their remarks, Trustee Mike Gibbs said he took umbrage with their comments about safety and interaction with immigration officials and seemed disinterested in even hearing about the issue.

Gibbs said he took an oath to protect and defend the constitution of the United States.

Federal government agents, he said, have their jobs to do. There are laws on the books, they have a sworn duty to uphold laws and follow directives from their higher-ups. His higher-ups were the citizens of the village, he said.

“To have government and law enforcement presented as the bad guys in this situation, I’m uncomfortable with that,” said Gibbs, who has relatives who work for the FBI and a brother-in-law, Tom Dee, who is a trustee of Dominican University. “I would hope everyone realizes there’s a process that needs to be followed, and by not following the process, a law is broken.

“To present River Forest as unsafe and unwelcoming community, I take umbrage with that, because I don’t feel we are.”

One of the students at the board meeting was affected by Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals or DACA. The policy, which began in 2012, allowed certain undocumented immigrants to the United States who entered the country as minors to receive a renewable two-year period of deferred action from deportation and eligibility.

Carolina Talavera, a senior and student leader of the Dominican Immigrant Student Collective, a campus advocacy group, said she has been dealing with students’ anxieties and concerns around safety and it would mean a lot if River Forest could help allay their fears.

“We cannot avoid the law,” Talavera said.

“Students don’t want to be criminalized; they don’t feel safe. Not finding a family member at home, I wouldn’t wish it on anybody.”

The students and college administrators were at the meeting to let the trustees know the richness and diversity of the campus and how meaningful it would be to adopt an ordinance, said Trudi Goggin, Dominican’s dean of students.

Claire Noonan, vice president of ministry and mission at Dominican, suggested that the village craft an ordinance similar to one in adopted in Seattle and another passed just last month in Oak Park. Forest Park is reviewing one as well, Village President Catherine Adduci said.

“This would be a place to start,” Noonan said. “For us having a welcoming city would guide the behavior of our city officials and our whole community and is consistent with Catholic identity and the mission of this institution.

“Some of the students who are here are undocumented. They are among our brightest and most promising. They are among the students who have contributed the most and the life and vitality of our community.”

A long-standing advocate for undocumented students, Dominican University President Donna Carroll recently told Wednesday Journal that about 5 to 10 percent of Dominican’s student population is undocumented.

She noted that many undocumented stu-

21

dents were more vulnerable now than they were before the signing of DACA in 2012 as some 750,000 people registered under DACA have provided the federal government information that could lead to their deportation.

River Forest trustees have not yet discussed whether to become a welcoming, or sanctuary, community. A recent article in the New York Times defined a sanctuary city as a community that generally does not comply with federal requests to detain undocumented immigrants and turn them over to the federal authorities for possible deportation.

In a community designated a welcoming community, or sanctuary city, citizenship or immigration status would not factor in any interaction between individuals and municipal employees, including police.

Adduci, who mentioned at a recent candidate forum that she would put the item on the agenda at a future date, said it would be discussed first at a committee of the whole meeting, where issues may be discussed. A date has not been set.

“We have to have a conversation around what we want it to be and what it would look like,” said Adduci.

The fourth trustee candidate on the April ballot, incumbent Tom Dwyer, did not say anything at the meeting and was not at the two public forums where he could have addressed the question.

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22

Wednesday Journal, March 29, 2017

OAKPARK.COM | RIVERFOREST.COM

Cucina Paradiso: New look, new food, still swanky

W Join us for

Easter Sunday Brunch Sunday, April 16, 2017 10:30am – 3:30pm Breakfast Specialties, Omelets made to order, Slow Roasted Prime Rib, Bone-in Ham, Leg of Lamb, Smoked Salmon Platter, Shrimp Cocktail, Pan-Seared Walleye, Salads, Assorted Desserts & much more!

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For Reservations, Please Call 708-848-4250 1110 Pleasant Street, Oak Park, IL 60302 www.carletonhotel.com

Best Fish Fry South of Wisconsin!

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hen Cucina Paradiso opened on North Boulevard, I remember excitedly telling a business associate that it was “just like downtown.” There was no irony in that comment: I thought this then-new Italian restaurant was the best thing to hit Oak Park since we moved here from Chicago in 1983. Before Maya del Sol, and way before Novo, this well-designed place (with a bar!) seemed the epitome of Oak Park swank: sleek, urbane and hip.

That was 22 years ago. Now Cucina Paradiso has undergone a renovation to rejuvenate and update its image. Gone are the white tablecloths (which generally now feel a little old-timey), in are new banquettes (cozy!). Though many of the posters remain on the walls, you’ll still recognize the places.

My main focus, of course, was on the renovated menu. Although they’ve kept Photo by David Hammond Grilled octopus some signature features, there are also some new items to keep it all fresh.

The grilled octopus ($15) is new to the when we had some as leftovers: the nut, menu, and Cucina Paradiso’s take on this somehow, seemed more apparent on reheat. classic is novel, and it’s a novelty that Spinach and ricotta ravioli ($17) could works: the tentacles are done fork-tender, have been all we had for dinner; this is a subut what sets this version apart are hazelper-rich platter of food, with grilled cherry nuts, Brussels sprouts, potato hash and tomatoes and bits of asparagus pancetta (seafood loves pig: it’s a fact). This a somewhat compliadding a vegetal counterpoint. cated and unusual collection of If you’re dining solo or have flavors and textures, toothsome any sense of restraint at all sea creature and crunchy nuts, when it comes to food, you and we liked it a lot. Added could be quite happy sharing bonus: With the potatoes and this ravioli, a side salad, and sprouts, you can have this as a two glasses of Montepulciano kind of starter salad, and thus (a mid-weight red, kind of avoid that big boring bowl of like Merlot or Pinot Noir). Of greens our conscience always course, we showed no such tells us we should have. restraint.

Fried broccoli florets ($6) Pork tenderloin ($21) was could, in other hands, have three medallions wrapped in been disappointing (as we have bacon, seared for light caraLocal Dining found them to be elsewhere in melization, with bean ragu and & Food Blogger the past). These little bundles spinach. Now it might seem of green with light breading redundant to wrap a pork loin and good crisp exterior were in bacon, but surrounding a fantastic, crunchy outside and medallion in bacon is a good lush on the inside — so simply way to keep the juices in and satisfying. If you have kids or for a meat dish, bacon is usuchildish adults who won’t eat 814 North Blvd., Oak Park ally a welcome addition. their broccoli, these crisp florets Though we were by this point 708-848-3434 will likely turn them around. in the meal pretty much tapped The pistachio pesto pizza ($14) out, we ordered the tiramisu, had a beautiful crust (kind of which I usually get for dessert when it’s on a cross between Neapolitan and Chicago tavern style) but, alas, any hint of pistachio the menu, because it was Dean Martin’s faseemed lost under the pecorino, Romano vorite. Having that suave guy’s fav seemed and ricotta. Given the title, I was expecting right in Cucina Paradiso, which opened more of the namesake nut to come through. the year Dino died and is probably still the The pie was, however, better on day two, swankiest joint in Oak Park.

DAVID

HAMMOND Cucina Paradiso

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

Wednesday Journal, March 29, 2017

NEED TO REACH US?

oakpark.com/real-estate editor Ken Trainor at 613-3310 ktrainor@wjinc.com

A N

23

Homes

O P I N I O N

Do we want a gateway or a wall?

A modest proposal from an Oak Parker who has been through the high-rise wars

By CHRISTINE VERNON Contributor

Editor’s note: When issues like the Albion 18-story development come to the forefront, historical perspective is often lacking. Christine Vernon is one longtime Oak Parker and activist who has a history with this. We asked her to share her slant as this issue continues to heat up.

P

aul “Bear” Bryant (1913-1983) is considered one of the most successful football coaches all time. Famous for his ability to motivate players, Bryant’s success with his teams while head football coach of the University of Alabama’s Crimson Tide had much to do with sage advice like this: “When you make a mistake, there are only three things you should ever do about it: admit it, learn from it, and never do it again.”

The citizens of Team Oak Park would be wise to take Bear Bryant’s words under advisement and give some thought to our legacy as current stewards of what we have inherited here.

Time for a review — looking back on what has been done, giving consideration to whether we have been good stewards of what we inherited, and planning for the kind of future legacy we want to leave in this incredible place where we’ve been privileged to live.

Photo by Marty Vernon

SHADOW BOXER: Christine Vernon, with the Vantage building looming in the background, has been through these battles before. She proposes extending open space to Lake Street instead of throwing more shadows on Austin Gardens.

The village’s value derives from: 1) The quality of the environment — both the earth itself and all living things populating Oak Park (To see the effect of a toxic environment in Oak Park, read the account of the years-long toxic cleanup and what it cost Oak Park, “Barrie Park’s cleanup proceeds,” Chicago Tribune, H. Gregory Meyer, July 3, 2004).

2) The sense of community we create.

When anyone participates in, contributes to, or volunteers for a good cause, we are all better for it. When any resident takes an interest in public safety, we all benefit. When anyone improves their property, the whole community benefits.

3) The priority of diversity and the commitment to equality for each individual was

officially and formally established by the village board in 1973. The commitment to valuing and protecting each person is our strong suit, our best feature.

4) The architectural history, represented in the village’s housing stock, a treasure and a living museum. Our housing stock See HIGH-RISE on page 25

WHO DO YOU TRUST? Insuring the Area’s Historic Homes for 60 Years 708.383.9000 • forestagency.com

24

Wednesday Journal, March 29, 2017

OAKPARK.COM | RIVERFOREST.COM

Serving Our Community For Over 70 Years

114 North Oak Park Avenue Oak Park, Illinois 60301

HOURS: MONDAY-FRIDAY 9AM-5PM SATURDAY 9AM-4PM • SUNDAY 10AM-2PM 548 WOODBINE • OPEN SUN 2:30-4PM

OAK PARK. COMFORTABLE 3-STORY, 5BR, 3 full BA Victorian with C/A-SpacePak. Maintenance-free exterior. Newer roof. ( ..................................................$615,000

OAK PARK. EXCEPTIONAL CLASSIC Prairie-style home. 3BRs, 2.1BAs. Newly remodeled kitchen. WBFP. Family rm. 3-tier cedar deck. Enjoy! ..........................$599,000

134 LATHROP • OPEN SUN 12:30-2PM

708.524.1100

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OAK PARK. SPACIOUS 4+1 BEDROOM, 3 BATH bungalow beautifully finished on 3 levels. A must-see up-to-date classic. ( ..................................................$625,000

FOREST PARK. STUNNINGLY UPDATED home in a great location. Zoned A/C, updated baths and kitchen. Move right in! .........................................................$429,000

OPEN HOUSES • SUNDAY, APRIL 2, 2017 OAK PARK

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OPEN 1-3PM • 628 WILLIAM

OPEN 1-3PM • 530 N. EAST CLASSY CENTER-OF-TOWN great Victorian! Lives large with 5BRs, 4BAs. Beautiful woodwork, two staircases. All systems newer. Come see! ( ..................................................................................................................... $980,000

RIVER FOREST. GRACIOUS & LARGE front unit in the Valencia. 3BRs, 2.1 BAs. Eatin kitchen. In-unit W/D. Storage. Indoor htd parking. ( ...................................$449,000 OAK PARK JUST LISTED! STATELY 5 BR, 2.1 bath brick home in FLW Historic District. 4 levels of living. Lovely stain glass & wdwk +updated kitchen & BAs. ( .................................$654,000 NEW LISTING! FAB COLONIAL waiting for your decorating ideas. 4 BRs, 3.1 BAs. Fin’d bsmt w/frplc. New windows, A/C, sprinkler system. ( .......................................$585,000 LIKE GREEN SPACE? Love to Entertain? Exceptionally restored, expanded home on private park-like lot offers huge family rm/kitchen combo. 6BR, 3.2BA. (...........................................................................$1,895,000 THIS HOUSE IS PERFECTION! 4 levels of level space in this 5 bedroom gorgeous Tudor. Seeing is believing. (..............................................................................$949,000 SPACIOUS PRAIRIE-SCHOOL home on double lot 5BR, 3.1BA. Choice location! ( ......................................$879,000 UNIQUE BRICK HOME w/extraordinary pegged oak flrs, cathedral ceiling LR & limestone kitchen. 4BR, 2.2BAs. Gorgeous garden. 2-car gar. ( .............................$685,000 FOUR LEVEL LIVING SPACE! Gourmet kitchen, breakfast rm, 5 BRs, 2 BAs. Oak flrs & woodwork. New roof. Must see! (..............................................................................$645,000 CHARMING, UPDATED 2-STORY stucco w/lovely nat’l wdwk, hdwd flrs, blt-ins & 2 frplcs. 3BRs, 2.1BAs, updated kitchen. Fin’d LL, C/A & more! Fab loc’n. ........( $599,500 SUPERB & UPDATED 3BR, 3.1BA w/lovely woodwork, leaded glass windows, large family rm, French doors & much more! ( ........................................................$594,000 FALL IN LOVE! Spacious home has orig wdwk, rehab kit, fin’d bsmt, TONS of storage & professionally lndscpd yd!

Close to park, school & pub trans. (....................$505,000 IDEAL LOCATION! Lots to love in this 4BR, 2BA home.

Newer mechanicals, tear-off roof. New kitchen. Call for details. ( ................................................................$479,700 SUN-FILLED COLONIAL. 3BRs, 2 new full BAs + ½BA. Hdwd flrs. Wood cab kitchen w/pantry. C/A. Deck. Great house! ( .................................................................$479,000

RIVER FOREST NEW LISTING! WELL-MAINTAINED 3+BR home.

Updated mechanics including roof. Freshly painted exterior.

Lovely lot & fantastic price! (...............................$529,000 DOUBLE LOT! EXCEPTIONAL HOME has designer kitchen w/great appliances. 6BRs, 3.2 BAs. Beautiful leaded glass windows & doors. Finished bsmt. (................$1,475,000

PRAIRIE SCHOOL home built in ‘06 w/classic architectural design & contemporary amenities. Spacious w/4BRs & 4½BAs. Family rm.

SPECIAL! ( ...................................................................................................... $1,225,000

FOREST PARK

OPEN 1:30-3:30PM • 1035 BERKSHIRE

OPEN SUN 12:30-2PM • 134 LATHROP

BEAUTIFUL HOME inside and out. 4 bedrooms, 3½ baths. Spring in bloom in park-like yard. ( ........................................................................ $820,000

FOREST PARK. STUNNING UPDATED home in a great location.

Zoned A/C, updated baths and kitchen. Move right in! ......... $429,000

OPEN 1-3PM • 1105 WISCONSIN

OAK PARK CONDOS/TOWNHOUSES

FOUR FINISHED LEVELS of living spc in the handsome & welllocated OP home! 5BRs, including master ste, 3.2BAs, nat’l wdwk & much more! ( .................................................................................................. $709,900

OPEN 2:30-4PM • 548 WOODBINE EXCEPTIONAL CLASSIC Prairie-style home. 3BRs, 2.1BAs. Newly remodeled kitchen. WBFP. Family rm. 3-tier cedar deck. Enjoy! ...................................................................................................................................... $599,000

OPEN 12-2PM AT THE SHOWROOM 139 S. OAK PARK AVE.

NEW CONSTRUCTION! New standard of luxury! 1808-2200 SF units, 3 BRs, 2 indoor pkg spaces, spacious terraces, eco-efficient LEED certified. Pricing starts at........................................................................................ $669,900

OPEN 1-3PM • 341 S. HUMPHREY, #3N

SUNNY AND SPACIOUS vintage condo with 2 bedrooms, 2 full baths, and laundry in-unit. ( .................................................................. $179,000

OPEN 12-2PM • 921 S. HUMPHREY

FOREST PARK CONDOS/TOWNHOUSES

DELIGHTFUL 3BR, 1½BA, American 4-Square, winning mix of modern improvements & classic details. Stylish kitchen & BAs, rec rm, fenced lndscpd yd. ( .................................................................................. $399,000

MUCH SOUGHT-AFTER 3 bedroom townhouse at the Grove w/ balcony & patio. Granite & stainless steel appliances. 2-car garage. (................................................................................................................................ $339,000

SPECTACULAR 6 BR, 3.2 BA on amazing block. 4 flrs of living space. High-end, designer kitchen & vaulted ceiling family rm. Just perfect! ( ..................................$1,399,000 TOP-TO-BOTTOM NEW CONSTRUCTION. Exquisite millwork, hi-end applncs & attention to detail thru-out.

4 BRs, 4.1 BAs. Amazing MBA w/soaker tub, sep shower. Too much to list. (.....................................................$1,350,000 WELCOME HOME! 4 bedrooms, 2.2 baths with gourmet kitchen and huge family room. ( .....................$1,100,000 FLAWLESS ATTENTION TO DETAIL. 5BR, 2.1BA home w/coach house. Chef’s kitchen w/over-the-top amenities.

Family rm. Much more! ( ..................................$1,059,000 MID-CENTURY MODERN RANCH w/open flr plan on a large lot. 3 BRs, 2.2BAs. WBFP. MBR suite. 1st flr laundry.

Cool fin’d bsmt. C/A. Must see! ( ........................$594,000 IMMACULATE & UPDATED 2-story brick home on deep lot. 3BRs, 2.1BAs. Remodeled kitchen. New MBA w/Jacuzzi.

C/A. Lovely! ( ........................................................$594,000

FOREST PARK

LOTS OF SQUARE FEET here - large 4BR, 3BA includes master bedroom suite and 2nd floor laundry! ($394,000 WANT AN IN-LAW arrangement? 4 bedroom, 2 bath.

Check out this Forest Park home! ( .....................$325,000

OTHER AREA HOMES

ELMWOOD PARK. LIGHT & BRIGHT, beautiful floors, C/A & 3 BR, 1.1 BA. Great space! (.......................$338,000 ELMWOOD PARK. TURNKEY BRICK 4 BR, 3 BA bungalow. Move right in to this spacious home with updated kitchen. ( ...............................................................$275,000

EQUAL HOUSING OPPORTUNITY

OPEN SUN 1:30-3:30PM • 622 GROVE LN.

ELMWOOD PARK. AWESOME LOCATION! Wellmaintained 2 BR home w/rehabbed kitchen & BA. Hdwd flrs. New siding & windows. (.............................$239,900 ELMWOOD PARK. GREAT YARD, close to park and schools – well-maintained 3BR, 2BA home. ( ..$227,000

INCOME OAK PARK. BRICK 3-FLAT close to school with a big living rm, formal dining rm. Excellent condition! Great income! ......................................................................$729,000 RIVER FOREST. INCOME PROPERTY, like a 2-flat, but a side-by-side. 3BRs, 2.1 BAs in each unit. Hdwd flrs. C/A. 3½-car garage. ( ..................................................$749,000

COMMERCIAL OAK PARK. MIXED USE BLDG. 1st flr: lrg commercial spc – approx. 3000SF. 2 apts on 2nd flr: 3BR, 1BA /1BR, 1BA. 2-car gar. 1st flr handicapped access. Call for more info. ....................................................................................$350,000

OAK PARK CONDOS/ TOWNHOUSES FANTASTIC LU VIOLA, 1st flr unit. Hdwd flrs & wdwk thru-out. Walking distance to trains, shops & restaurants.

Pkg. ( .....................................................................$239,500 BEAUTIFUL 2BR plus den, 2BA unit in vintage building in heart of Oak Park. Very spacious living & dining rms. Updated kitchen. ( .......................................$219,000 EXTRAORDINARY 1BR CONDO in exceptional location.

Updated kitchen. Great closet space. Full BA w/double vanity. Balcony. Elevator bldg. (................................$144,900

EQUAL HOUSING OPPORTUNITY

IDEAL LOCATION close to DTOP, library, Scoville Pk, & transportation. 2BR w/new flrs. Elevator bldg. Parking. .................................................................................... $119,000 WELL-LOCATED STUDIO features hdwd flrs, new SS fridge and portable washer. Murphy bed. ...............$68,000

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25

The high-rise wars A timeline of existing and proposed highrises in Oak Park, compiled by Christine Gawne Vernon:

FILE 2016

SUN BLOCK?: Vantage Oak Park rises 21 stories over Lake Street. A new proposal calls for 18 stories across the street.

HIGHRISE

Four years ago, with the election of Anan Abu-Taleb, Oak Park entered a new era. Village President/Mayor Anan brought new energy and a breath of fresh air into Oak Park. New development has come into Oak from page 23 Park during his first term. Previous administrations complained about the fact that they includes the work of over 100 architects, couldn’t get anyone to come here because of and the most Prairie School of Architecture an active electorate that demanded quality homes found anywhere in the world. This projects and high standards.

Maybe they were scared they would end up rich repository draws people from all over the in the unenviable posiworld, brings the world tion of developer Jonas to our door, and into Stankus (See timeline our house, so to speak, sidebar). and has the potential to As a 44-year veteran provide economic perks of the neighborhood while attracting future adjacent to Downtown residents, which happens Oak Park, and a person often. Oak Park has been who spent years in the a way station, an oasis, mid-1970s advocating for for many well-known and a more appropriate projaccomplished people, and ect than a 35-story, lotmany unknown, hardline to lot-line high-rise working and wonderful adjacent to the Frank citizens.

Lloyd Wright Historic We are responsible for District, one block from safeguarding the prewhere I lived, I have a cious and priceless feastrong gut reaction to tures and commodities Submitted the news of an 18-story that make Oak Park a high-rise planned for great place. The thought- DEJA VU: The Oak Park Community ful work of past genera- Organization led the opposition to pre- the Lytton site, 1000 Lake St., on the northtions has given us a subvious high-rise proposals in the 1970s. east corner of Forest urb to be proud of, which Avenue and Lake Street. also makes it an attractive place for developers to come, invest and That gut reaction is “Don’t build it! That would be an enormous mistake!” make money.

Many of the developers are from out-oftown, though, so it is up to us to make sure No to 18 stories, No to 8 stories they understand those characteristics that In the past, there was always a good reare precious and most valued by us. We need to require that they participate in safeguard- lationship between Downtown Oak Park ing our heritage, and that they need to work (DTOP) and the Wright Historic District.

If this 18-story, or 8-story, building were put within specific parameters. Balancing all of this are the taxpayers who stay informed on there now, Austin Gardens will be walled off the proposals and projects, developers becom- from our Downtown, and Downtown will be ing informed on what citizens hold sacred, walled off from the quiet restorative space sorting through the competing interests, and that is Austin Gardens. Albion’s proposal is the wrong project for a phenomenal site that recognizing what is in the best interests of the community. This constitutes a formidable See HIGH-RISE on page 28 challenge.

How much density do we need?

1921 – An 8-story hotel proposed for the southeast corner of Erie and Oak Park Avenue at a time when the comprehensive plan limited height to 450 feet. Proponents tried to discredit opponents but opponents countered by publishing their own names in the paper. The proposed project was described as a “skyscraper” in the Oak Leaves Anniversary Issue, May 28, 1921, illustrating how the word “high-rise” is a relative term when talking about a residential neighborhood.

1973 – 19-story Mills Park Tower, a lotline to lot-line project at 1025 Pleasant Place proposed and planned for seniors, was completed in 1975. Adjacent to open green space for seniors at Mills Park, the tower has 198 Section 8 assisted units (apartments.com).

1975 – A 35-story high-rise is presented as a plan for Forest and Lake, the Stankus site. There had been a plan for one 55-story tower after the twin 55-story proposal failed. Then there was talk of twin 35-story towers. By 1975, the project was down to one 35-story tower.

1976 – The 35-story Stankus high-rise proposal receives the approval of the village board. According to Roy Cleveland of the state of Illinois Aeronautics Division, interviewed in the 1970s. The Stankus high-rise would be the tallest building in Illinois outside of 1970 – ChangDowntown Chies made to Oak cago and the State Park’s CompreCapitol building hensive Plan. The in Springfield. village of Oak This phase of the Park hires Gerwin Rohrbach’s firm Stankus plan was from St. Louis to called to a halt by do Phase II of the the Department Comprehensive of Housing and Plan for approxiUrban Developmately $69,000 ment when HUD’s for the next 18 Environmental Submitted months. (Aug. 23, Impact Statement 1970 Oak Park GOING BACK: Vernon’s archives reveal that of the project, World) requested by conresistance to high-rises goes way back. cerned village 1972 – Twin residents, deter55-story towers mined that the are designated to be built on a site owned project would have an “adverse impact.”

by Jonas Stankus at the southeast corner As a result of their findings, HUD denied of Forest and Lake (directly south of the funding for the project. OPCO arranged Vantage building). Opposition to this pro- for a group of concerned citizens to meet posal existed from the first and was led by with John Waner, Chicago Area Director the Oak Park Community Organization’s of HUD in downtown Chicago. Stankus (OPCO) Paul Bloyd and Perry Hamilton. sued HUD for $15.9 million in damages The Rohrbach plan called for a high-densi- and charged that Waner had “bowed to ty corridor on Lake Street and for high-ris- pressure from tower opponents.” HUD es to be built there from Harlem to Austin. didn’t lose this suit.

The height of buildings in that “high-den1977 – The 20-story Twin Oak Towsity” corridor were based on the height of the tallest building on Lake Street, the ers is the next project proposed for the Medical Arts Building, an Art Deco build- Forest and Lake site. In October 1977, Stankus sold the property to Cleveland ing by Roy Hotchkiss (a half block east of Oak Park Avenue). Called a “tower” when partnership, Ernie Schwartz and Robit was constructed, the Medical Arts Build- ert Hoffman and several other investors ing was also described as follows: “This (Chicago Tribune, Nov. 13, 1977, Jack building represents the incursion into Houston, “Group seeks Oak Park OK on the suburbs of the skyscraper building big towers”). Later, the village of Oak types commonly associated with the dense Park hired Real Estate Research Corpodowntown cores of metropolitan areas.” ration for $3,000 to assess the Twin Oak Although supported by the village board, Towers. They advised the buildings be the plan for twin 55-story towers failed to built one tower at a time. Concernedcitizen opposition continued. get the support needed to go forward.

1959 – Village Manager Association (VMA) issues a resolution opposing highrise apartments. The VMA was founded in 1952 and is credited with cleaning up local government at that time.

26

Wednesday Journal, March 29, 2017

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27

28

Wednesday Journal, March 29, 2017

OAKPARK.COM | RIVERFOREST.COM

The high-rise wars 1987 – At 16-stories, an estimated 195.15 feet tall, and designed

by Phillip Kupritz and Associates (emporis.com), 100 Forest Place finally rises after years of failed proposals on the Stankus site. The building there today is the result of years of citizen advocacy — negotiated by the village of Oak Park at the former Stankus site.

For the first time, the building has setbacks, open space and townhouses that step down into the surrounding neighborhood on the west side, all features advocated by village residents.

1980 – The 14-story Heritage House, 201 Lake St., 200 units of Section 8 assisted housing, a lotline to lot-line project with no provision for outdoor green space for senior residents, is built a block west of Stevenson Park.

1992 – The 13-story, Holly Court, now known as Brookdale Oak Park for seniors, is built at 1111 Ontario, a lot-line to lot-line project with no adequate provision for additional green space for senior residents. Private pay.

2005 – Changes are made to Oak Park’s Comprehensive Plan: The village of Oak Park hires a Portland, Oregon firm, Crandall Arambula, to revise the Comprehensive Plan for Oak Park at a cost of over $225,000 during an 18-month period. The plan calls for the demolition of 22 buildings in historic Downtown Oak Park without the consent of the build-

2011 – The 8-story, mixed use, 1120 Club, formerly RSC & Associates, 1120 Lake St., opens. This financially troubled project also has no provision for open green space.

Submitted

TWIN TOWERS: Twin Oak Towers, approximately 20 stories each, was proposed in 1977, but was never built because of local opposition. ing owners or village residents.

The Crandall Arambula Plan is approved by the village board by a 6-1 vote, despite the fact that “three state agencies said the plan did not go far enough to preserve the historic character of Oak Park.” (Wednesday Journal, March 22, 2005) Many Oak Park citizens were outraged at the idea of demolishing 22 buildings, many historic, and opposed the Comprehensive Plan being determined by people/firms from parts of the U.S. with seemingly no perspective and awareness of, or respect for, the rich architectural history that constitutes Oak Park.

2008 – The 14-story, a 204-unit building at Harlem and Ontario (housing Trader Joe’s) is built.

Now named Oak Park Place, previously named Oak Park Place Apartments and originally White-

HIGHRISE from page 25 can serve Oak Park in a better and unique way and would enhance the value of the neighborhood in every direction.

During the years we lived across from Austin Gardens, we and our neighbors made every effort to shop regularly, participating in the campaign to keep our money local in order to support our tax base while supporting DTOP merchants. We loved our proximity to downtown, and the neighborhood transitioned into a lovely shopping area in a way that was not offensive.

We shopped faithfully through the 1974 construction ($1.5 million creation) of the fourblock pedestrian mall at Lake and Marion.

We continued shopping through the deconstruction ($2.7 million demolition) of the Lake Street portion in 1988. The Marion Street portion, south of Lake, wasn’t re-

co, it is located at 479 N. Harlem.

The building changed hands for the third time in 2016, acquired by a Canadian company that paid $68 million (Wednesday Journal, Aug. 11, 2016). Owners describe their building as a “luxury apartment building.” This lot-line to lot-line project, another development with no provision for green space, followed one of the most contentious development battles in Oak Park. Whiteco was the most highly-subsidized village project in Oak Park history. The architecture is characterized by many residents as “Soviet Bloc” style. To see a history of Whiteco costs to the village, see local businessman Paul Hamer’s detailed history of the project in Wednesday Journal (“The village’s cost of turning the keys over to Whiteco $20M?” Viewpoints, Jan. 25, 2005, http:// bit.ly/1n8eg3).

streeted until 2006/2007 (at an estimated cost of $4M in TIF funds).

The destruction of the mall was controversial. An architect who was the head of the Landmarks Commission led the citizen protest. He presented petitions with thousands of signatures, and opponents of restreeting packed the council chambers, but the protest fell on deaf ears. The village president had to abstain from voting on the restreeting because he had accepted a plane ride and trip as the guest of Robert Irsay, owner of the Baltimore Colts, to a Colts’ game. Irsay, the owner of Colt Realty and Development Co. in Oak Park, was the main proponent of reopening the streets.

“Mall in good time,” an article in Wednesday Journal by Doug Deuchler from Dec. 20, 2005, gives an idea of how positive many residents felt about the mall. Makes you wonder if the mall demolition won because of the changing face of merchandising, as See HIGH-RISE on page 33

2015 – The Colt/Westgate Superblock Development Project, then known as Oak Park Station, a single building in two parts, one 5-story and the other 20-story, with 271 “luxury apartments,” each building being lot-line to lot-line, with the exception of a courtyard in the center of the Lake Street-Westgate part of the project, begins construction.

Clark Street & Lennar Multifamily partner on the project.

Oak Park Station Development plans taking place now were approved by the village board last August. The original proposal, redone, resulted in “The $85 million, 20-story, 271-unit project, developed by Clark Street Real Estate and Lennar Multifamily, is under construction on what is known as the ‘Colt site’ on Lake Street east of Harlem Avenue.”

(Chicago Tribune June 6, 2016).

The project will include 26,000 square feet of retail space and a five-story parking garage with more than 400 parking spaces.

“Construction crews have begun razing a building along Westgate Street to prepare for one of the largest developments in downtown Oak Park’s history.” (Chicago Tribune, Nov. 3, 2015) The project includes “a 22,000-square-foot Target custom-

ized for urban and densely populated suburban areas.” (from the current village website, Lake & Westgate Project page where there is also an “Oak Park Station Animation” video). The project has recently been renamed “The Emerson.”

2015 – The 11-story South Boulevard & Harlem/Maple Avenues Development Project is approved by the village board with conditions. (“Trustees approve South Boulevard project,” WJ, March 7, 2015). No open green space for residents in this plan either.

“This project, a 250-unit, 11-story building developed by Lincoln Property Co. of Dallas, is expected to begin construction late this year or early next at Harlem and South Boulevard.” (Chicago Tribune June 6, 2016). Construction has not yet begun.

2016 – A 21-story rental building at 150 Forest Avenue is completed. “The proposed project at Lake and Forest by Sertus Capital Partners, ultimately became a $90 million, 21-story, 270-unit building developed by Golub & Co. and Wood Partners. It is now known as Vantage Oak Park” (Chicago Tribune June 6, 2016).

2017 – The most recent proposed project under consideration and up for public debate, is submitted to the village by Albion Residential. Eighteen stories tall, it would have 265 “luxury apartments.”

Provided by Oak Park Economic Development Corp

A rendering of the Oak Park Station complex (recently renamed “the Emerson”) which is currently under construction between Lake Street (left) and North Boulevard (right) by the Metra station.

Wednesday Journal, March 29, 2017

OAKPARK.COM | RIVERFOREST.COM

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Wednesday Journal, March 29, 2017

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Sunday, April 2, 2017

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LISTING PRICE

TIME

736 N. Humphrey Ave, Oak Park. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Re/Max In The Village . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $289,000 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2:30-4 921 S. Humphrey, Oak Park . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Gloor Realty Co . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $399,000 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .12-2 1040 S. Scoville Ave, Oak Park . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Re/Max In The Village . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $399,900 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12-1:30 923 Hayes Ave, Oak Park . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Weichert Realtors Nickel Group . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$419,000 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-3 940 S. Kenilworth Ave, Oak Park . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Baird & Warner Oak Park/River Forest. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $419,900 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-3 134 Lathrop, Forest Park. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Gloor Realty Co . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $429,000 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .12:30-2 607 Home Ave, Oak Park . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Weichert Realtors Nickel Group . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $470,000 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11:30-1:30 820 S. Scoville Ave, Oak Park . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Re/Max In The Village . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $525,000 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-3 1223 Woodbine Ave, Oak Park . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Weichert Realtors Nickel Group . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $554,900 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-3 916 N. Euclid Ave, Oak Park . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Re/Max In The Village . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $580,000 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-3 826 N. Harlem Ave, River Forest . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Weichert Realtors Nickel Group . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $589,500 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .12-2 548 Woodbine, Oak Park . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Gloor Realty Co . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $599,000 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2:30-4 1213 Edmer Ave, Oak Park. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Baird & Warner Oak Park/River Forest. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $695,000 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-3 938 S. Euclid Ave, Oak Park. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Weichert Realtors Nickel Group . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $699,000 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1:30-3:30 1105 Wisconsin, Oak Park . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Gloor Realty Co . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $709,900 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-3 325 Gage Rd, Riverside . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Gagliardo Realty Associates . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $720,000 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-3 7770 Washington Blvd, River Forest . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Weichert Realtors Nickel Group . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $725,000 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .12-2 847 N. East Ave, Oak Park . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Weichert Realtors Nickel Group . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$727,000 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .12-3 320 S. Grove Ave, Oak Park . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Re/Max In The Village . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $739,000 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-4 173 N. Harvey Ave, Oak Park . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Baird & Warner Oak Park/River Forest. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $789,000 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2:30-4 1446 Bonnie Brae Pl, River Forest . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Baird & Warner Oak Park/River Forest. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $799,000 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-3 1035 Berkshire, Oak Park . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Gloor Realty Co . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $820,000 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1:30-3:30 530 N. East, Oak Park . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Gloor Realty Co . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $980,000 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-3 628 William, River Forest . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Gloor Realty Co . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $1,225,000 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-3 1023 Franklin Ave, River Forest. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Gagliardo Realty Associates . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $1,259,000 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-3

ADDRESS

TOWNHOMES

30

REALTY CO.

LISTING PRICE

TIME

415 Wesley Ave. UNIT 42, Oak Park . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Baird & Warner Oak Park/River Forest. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $115,000 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-3 244 S. Maple Ave. UNIT 3W, Oak Park . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Baird & Warner Oak Park/River Forest. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $149,000 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .12:30-2 816 S. Maple Ave. UNIT 2S, Oak Park. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Weichert Realtors Nickel Group . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $166,500 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-3 341 S. Humphrey UNIT 3N, Oak Park . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Gloor Realty Co . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $179,000 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-3 329 S. Oak Park Ave. UNIT 1S, Oak Park . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Weichert Realtors Nickel Group . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $239,900 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .12-2 4953 Oakton St. UNIT 702, Skokie . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Re/Max In The Village . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $450,000 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-3 Showroom Open at 139 S. Oak Park Ave., Oak Park, IL . . . . . . Gloor Realty Co . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $669,900 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .12-2 Showroom Open at 139 S. Oak Park Ave., Oak Park, IL . . . . . . Gloor Realty Co . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $684,900 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .12-2

ADDRESS

REALTY CO.

LISTING PRICE

TIME

622 Grove Ln, Forest Park . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Gloor Realty Co . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $339,000 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1:30-3 407 Wisconsin Ave, Oak Park . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Baird & Warner Oak Park/River Forest. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $399,000 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .12-2 328 Pennsylvania Way, Oak Park . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Baird & Warner Oak Park/River Forest. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $564,900 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .12-2

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Wednesday Journal, March 29, 2017

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 Anne Brennan Julie Cliggett Illinois 60305 Karen Byrne Alisa Coghill Kevin Calkins JoLyn Crawford 708.771.8040 Tom Carraher Andy Gagliardo Maria Cullerton

MANAGING BROKER/OWNERS River Forest,

Pat Cesario

Tom Poulos

Karen Doty Julie Downey

Kurt Fielder Yvonne Fiszer-Steele Ramona Fox Chris Garvey Lisa Grimes Dan Halperin Sharon Halperin Aubrey Jacknow

1418 CLINTON RIVER FOREST

711 ASHLAND RIVER FOREST

N E W L IS T ING!

PRI C E REDUC ED!

SPECIAL HOME located on a quiet street. Decorating right out of House Beautiful. The kitchen boasts lots of cabinets/counter space, hardwood floors. The fireplace is the centerpiece of the living room.

The dining room overlooks beautiful backyard. Family room with built -in book cases................................................................$949,000

BEAUTIFUL QUEEN ANN BUNGALOW! Beautifully maintained and updated. Amazing location within two block radius to District 90 public schools, RF Tennis Clubs and Parochial Schools. Within walking distance to shopping and public transportation. Amazing neighbors and block!” ...........................................................$649,000

1023 FRANKLIN • RIVER FOREST OPEN SUNDAY 1-3

New Construction Luxury Condominiums In the Village of River Forest

Greg Jaroszewski Vee Jaroszewski Joanne Kelly Michael Kinnare Sherree Krisco Jack Lattner Susan Maienza Vince McFadden

Charlotte Messina Kathleen Minaghan Colleen Navigato Rosa Pitassi Sue Ponzio-Pappas Katie Possley Michael Roche Jenny Ruland

Laurel Saltzman Rob Sarvis Laurie Shapiro Meg Sullivan Tom Sullivan Debbie Watts George Wohlford Nancy Wohlford

559 WILLIAM RIVER FOREST

1109 WISCONSIN OAK PARK

N E W L I S T I N G! STUNNING VICTORIAN! Updated 3 bedroom, 3 bath home.

Original details have been preserved, and well considered updates added to create an ideal blend of historical character and contemporary design. House sits on an extra large lot with professional landscaping. ...........................................................................$639,900

GREAT CORNER LOT! Move right in to this four 2nd flr bedroom, one full and two half bath home. Additional office/den on first floor. Eat-in updated kitchen. Hdwd flrs. New Cent Air. Semifinished bsmnt with half bath and additional office/BR. Open front porch. ..................................................................................... $672,500

325 GAGE • RIVERSIDE OPEN SUNDAY 1-3

The Avalon 15 Luxury Units* All Three Bedroom Units

RIVER FOREST HOMES

• Top of the Line Finishes

• Wide Generous Floorplans

• 2 Car Garage Parking

• 9 1/2 Foot Ceilings

• Ranging from 1900-2550 S.F.

• Oversized Terraces

• Outstanding location

Located at the corner of Bonnie Brae and Thomas

HANDSOME AND BEAUTIFULLY MAINTAINED traditional brick home for those who appreciate tradition and elegance.

Distinctive home offers 5BRs, 2 full/2 half baths. Professionally landscaped fenced yard with in-ground pool and spa. Ample storage in basement..................................................................$1,259,000 BURMA BUILT BUHRKE HOUSE combines Tudor revival & chateau style architecture. Gorgeous décor and impeccable attention to detail found in house and grounds, extends to fabulous pool and patios. Perfect for entertaining. ......$2,449,000 SPECTACULARLY UPDATED American Federalist Home. Restored by the designer/owner. Benefits include 5 BRs, 4 full + 2 half BAs, Gourmet Kitchen, Library/ Office/private Fam Rm with large-scale windows overlooking backyard. ...$1,895,000 CLASSIC BRICK COLONIAL with all high-end finishes. First floor features hardwood floors, family room off kitchen. Finished basement has media room, 2 addl BRs, full bath, plenty of storage. Backyard offers private deck, large heated patio, built in pool. 3 car garage, heated driveway. ...............................................................$1,595,000 RESTORE THIS HOUSE with fabulous curb appeal or Build your dream home on this 100’ x 184’ lot....................................................................................................$1,400,000 STUNNING BRICK ENGLISH TUDOR with 5 bedrooms, 4-1/2 baths on one of River Forest’s most private streets. This house has everything you need. Fabulous family room, large eat-in gourmet kitchen, a truly amazing basement with a full spectacular wet bar. This is a must see. ...............................................................$1,195,000 GORGEOUS FRENCH NORMANDY with 5 bedrooms, 5 full & 5 half baths sits on a 75 foot corner lot. Gleaming hardwood floors and fireplace in LR, simply stunning eat-in kitchen with adjoining family room. Lower level rec room with gas fireplace.

Beautifully landscaped grounds............................................................................$1,049,000 BEAUTIFUL STYLISH UPDATED HOME with 4 BRs, 3.2 BAs on four floors of living space. Includes LR w/ frpl, new high end kitchen, Breakfast Rm, 1st FL office. LL has Fam Rm, Rec Room, Laundry, Wine Cellar and Full Bath. 2 car garage with extra storage and rooftop deck. .........................................................................................$999,500

• Innovative Custom Design

For Information please contact Andy Gagliardo • 708-771-8040 *All information in this ad is estimated and therefore subject to change.

STATELY BRICK COLONIAL on Beautiful Corner Lot. Meticulous move-in condition, made for entertaining and modern living. Four BR, three full, 2 half BA, with a gourmet kitchen, spacious LL rec room, lovely backyard w/patio, perennial garden, 2 car garage plus a carport. ..........................................................................................$948,000 PLENTY OF ROOM in this spacious bungalow. Two bedrooms on the first floor, rebuilt second floor including 2 full baths. Master suite has a fireplace and new bathroom. Two additional bedrooms with lots of space for your family. The kitchen is a cooks dream with many perks. ................................................................................$849,000 LIVES VERY LARGE! Each room has been thought out in this six bedroom, two and a half bath home. Kitchen boasts Rift Cut Oak and was completely redone in 2009.

MBR has radiant heated floors. Patios and sitting areas off the Master. Everything has been done for you.......................................................................................................$799,000 CLASSIC RED BRICK COLONIAL with 3 bedrooms, 2-1/2 baths. Traditional floor plan includes first floor family room with fireplace, hardwood floors, separate living room, separate dining, along with kitchen and separate breakfast room. Side driveway with two car garage..................................................................................$699,000 CHARMING, SPACIOUS QUEEN ANNE BUNGALOW in pristine condition. Art glass windows, French doors, wood trim, hardwood floors. Granite kitchen, breakfast nook. Family room and 1st floor bedroom. 3 bedrooms on 2nd floor. Finished basement, enclosed porch, 2 car garage................................................................$639,900 LOCATION, LOCATION, LOCATION. Stucco home with a great floor plan.

Hardwood floors, large rooms throughout. Living room includes a gas fireplace.

Separate dining room with built-ins and stained glass windows. L-shaped kitchen, family room. Koi pond in the backyard...................................................................$629,000

ELEGANT ARTS & CRAFTS STYLE HOME with 3 levels of updates from the newer kitchen which opens to the formal dining room and the elegant family room to the 4 updated bathrooms. 6 Bedrooms with a tandem room off the master bedroom and walk-in closet. Wrap around deck...................................................... $720,000

CLASSIC TUDOR offers the charm and elegance you’ve come to expect in River Forest. Brick and stone exterior and timeless interior with natural wdwk. Kitchen overlooks large backyard. Two fireplaces, dry basement. Two car garage.......$625,000 MID CENTURY RANCH with plenty of options to work with in this open floor plan. Extra large kitchen with eating area. Family Room with gas fireplace. Three Bedrooms with master suite. Two and a half baths. Huge rec room in basement.

Attached 2 car garage. Private yard.........................................................................$529,000

BEAUTIFULLY RESTORED VICTORIAN style three bedroom, two bath home in central OP. Large front porch. Open kitchen, granite, perfect for entertaining! All new furnace/ac, windows, siding, roof, etc...a nearly maintenance free home.......$519,000 MUCH LOVED HOME for over 50 years is ready for a new family to create new memories! Four BR home circa 1899 features natural wood details, 1st fl family room with wood burning fireplace, LR, DR, kitchen, breakfast room. Extra deep lot offers expansion opportunities.........................................................................................$489,9000

UNPRECEDENTED ESTATE in the Wright Historical district of OP! Meticulously renovated 5 BR, 5 full / 2 half bath property offers exquisite details and finishes that boast timeless materials and custom millwork. A showcase home! .............$2,525,000 TRULY CLASSIC OP RED BRICK COLONIAL with four or five bedrooms, depending on your needs, and four full and two half baths. Third floor features rec room, or bedroom, and full bath. There is a heated 2 car, with addl 2 tandem space, garage with fabulous coach house above...........................................................$1,885,000 GORGEOUS COLONIAL CLASSIC! Flawlessly renovated home with high end finishes and quality updates throughout. Gourmet eat-in kitchen opens to family room, massive finished basement, Bluestone patio. Perfect for entertaining. ..........$825,000 GORGEOUS HOME WITH OPEN FLOOR PLAN. This 4 bedroom, 3-1/2 bath brick colonial sits on a majestic corner lot in Historic Oak Park! Spacious living room, sun room or home office, expansive dining room, family room and a true chef’s kitchen with large eat-in area. ...............................................................................................$760,000 PRICE REDUCED VINTAGE VICTORIAN on corner lot, formal entry, wd flr in LR/DR. Four BRs, two and a half BAs. Open front porch on 1st floor and enclosed on 2nd. Large yd,3 car grg. Central air. Space for entertainment inside & out.....$579,000

NOTHING TO DO BUT MOVE IN! Beautiful 3 bedroom, 3-1/2 bath Colonial features ideal floor plan, hardwood floors, completely finished basement with full bath, luxury kitchen. Charming front porch and back deck. Well maintained with many upgrades and space to spare! ....................................................................................$449,000

OAK PARK HOMES

FOREST PARK HOMES

CONDOS/TOWNHOMES/2 FLATS

NEW LISTING RIVER FOREST 3BR, 2-1/2 BA ........................................ $460,000 RIVER FOREST 2BR, 2BA. Open concept kitchen. .........................................$305,000 RIVER FOREST 1BR, 1BA. Entertainment area.................................................$89,000 OAK PARK 2 Flat ....................................................................................................$525,000 PRICE REDUCED OAK PARK 3BR, 1BR......................................................$289,000 OAK PARK 2BR, 2BA. Unique condo. .................................................................$274,500 NEW LISTING OAK PARK 2BR, 1BA............................................................$188,000 OAK PARK 2BR, 1BA. Loads of natural light! .....................................................$174,000 PRICE REDUCED OAK PARK 1BR, 1BA......................................................$129,500 OAK PARK 1BR, 1BA. Includes 2 parking spaces. ..............................................$94,900

For more listings & photos go to GagliardoRealty.com

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Wednesday Journal, March 29, 2017

OAKPARK.COM | RIVERFOREST.COM

OAK PARK

RIVER FOREST OPEN SUNDAY 12-2PM

OPEN SUNDAY 12-2PM

OPEN SUNDAY 12-2PM

OPEN SUNDAY 12-3PM

OPEN SUNDAY 1-3PM

3D

3D

3D

3D

3D

OPEN SUNDAY 1:30-3:30PM

3D

NEW LISTING!

826 Harlem Ave 5BR+1BSMT, 4BA $589,500

7770 Washington Blvd 4BR, 3.1BA $725,000

329 S. Oak Park Ave 2BR, 1BA $239,900

OPEN SUNDAY 1-3PM

OPEN SUNDAY 1-3PM

OPEN SUNDAY 11:30-1:30PM

OAK PARK

3D

3D

1223 Woodbine Ave 3BR, 2.1BA $564,900

923 N. Hayes Ave 4BR, 2BA $419,000

3D

816 S. Maple Ave 2BR, 1BA $166,500

847 N. East Ave 3BR + 1BSMT, 3.1BA $727,000

3D

3D

835 Lyman Ave 4BR, 2.2BA $524,900

607 Home Ave 3BR, 2BA $470,000

OAK PARK

3D

938 S. Euclid Ave 4BR, 3.1BA $699,000

NEW PRICE!

NEW LISTING!

610 N. Humphrey Ave 3BR, 2BA $389,900

947 Mapleton Ave 4BR, 3BA $619,900

3D

3D 3D

NEW PRICE!

3D NEW PRICE!

1040 Wisconsin Ave 4BR, 2BA $459,000

1229 Woodbine Ave 3BR, 2BA $479,000

OAK PARK

1050 N. Humphrey Ave 2BR, 1BA $239,000

1216 N. Kenilworth Ave 4BR+1BSMT, 3.1BA $732,500

3D

3D

3D 3D NEW PRICE!

634 N. Lombard Ave 4BR, 2BA $419,000

RIVER FOREST

546 N. Oak Park Ave 5BR, 2.1BA $1,049,000

RIVER FOREST

1109 Highland Ave 3BR, 2BA $489,900

FOREST PARK

3D NEW LISTING!

554 Forest Ave 131 Ashland Ave 3BR, 2BA 4BR + 1BSMT, 3.1BA $554,000 $689,000 Townhomes & Condos

847 Lathrop Ave 2BR, 2.1BA $724,000

7200 Oak Ave – 1BR, 1BA $69,900

3D

Go to

3D

222 N. Grove Ave – 2BR, 2BA $199,00 1135 Schneider Ave – 2BR, 2BA $259,900

1115 Thomas Ave 4BR, 3BA $445,000

614 Fair Oaks Ave 3BR, 2.1BA $599,900

3D

NEW PRICE!

1151 Lyman Ave 3BR, 2BA $435,000

3D

609 Clinton Pl 3BR, 1.2BA $599,000

3D

3D

446 Thomas Ave 2 Flat + PKG $319,500

101 N. Oak Park Ave, Oak Park, IL 60301 • 708-848-5550 www.weichertnickelgroup.com

240 S. Oak Park Ave – 2BR, 1BA $199,900

WeichertRNG.com to view 3D Tours and see what else is on the market!

222 N. Grove Ave – 2BR, 2BA $234,500

Follow Weichert

Wednesday Journal, March 29, 2017

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33

HIGHRISE

were the closest owners of a Wright-designed home to the proposed 35-story high-rise. We became close friends and Kathy and I worked for years to make our voices — and the voices of other people opposed to that project — from page 28 heard.

On the day the Wright family visited the has been said, or if the clout of development Thomas Home, I was there with Kathy and money and its influence won out. had the opportunity to meet Anne BaxIn 2017, Albion is asking for the destruction ter, a successful film and stage actress and of the inoffensive former Lytton building Wright’s granddaughter, who was receiving and permission to construct an 18-story high- much attention from the press because she rise in its place, blocking the sunlight on the had recently published a memoir about her only park in the most congested and densely abandonment of Hollywood to live in an Auspopulated area in Oak Park. A wall would be tralian outback sheep station with her second created by the Vantage building, 100 Forest husband. Baxter was a warm person and that Place, the proposed Albion building, and the visit was a happy diversion from the tension mini-Modernist high-rise just to the west of of the ongoing high-rise battle. the Lytton building.

In the dining room, as Kathy spoke to This little forest of concrete, steel and glass Wright’s son, architect Lloyd Wright, and would constitute the “DTOP Wall,” cutting Wright’s grandson, architect Eric Wright, off any relationship with the Wright Historic about the Stankus project, they all looked out District and creating a distinctly unwelcome the dining room window at 210 Forest down barrier. the block at the Stankus site and envisioned Pedestrians are already complaining about the slab of a building proposed to be built the wind tunnel as they walk down the skinny there. sidewalk on Lake Street alongside the 21-stoThough we opponents were characterized ry Vantage building on the southeast corner as “fringe,” “obstructionists,” “naïve,” and of Forest and Lake and other demeaning adjecexperience the horizontives, none of us — not tal wind shear that has Kathy, not me, and not been created by that the Wright family — building and 100 Forest thought development Place across the street of Oak Park could be to the north. Lake Street prevented. It was just a traffic between Forest question of when and and Harlem is relatively what kind of developslow all the time and ment. Change is inevigridlocked during rush table. The Stankus projhour and on weekends. ect was just the wrong project. We all agreed.

This congestion is hapThe Wright family pening before all the supported us in our opbuildings planned have position. They were been finished and ocnot people who put the cupied, and the cars work of their grandcoming with the new father first before all population have not yet else. They were just arrived. Who will want Provided by Albion Residential people who had a clear to shop where traffic perspective on the sigand parking is so bad? Rendering of the 18-story development nificance of his work So bad, we now have a proposed at 1000 Lake St. to our country and the perceived need for valet world, the only archiparking in DTOP. Albion’s proposal is the wrong project for a tecture that is uniquely American.

Still living in the same neighborhood since phenomenal site.

What about the impact of the new Vantage 1973, I have enjoyed a home with a nice yard building, 21 stories with 270 apartments that for many years. Why do I care what happens allow up to two 65-pound dogs per unit? Will at the old Lytton site? When my husband and the traditionally quiet gardens across the I lived in the corner row house at Forest Avstreet now become a dog park? I love dogs but enue and Ontario, across from the 19th Cenit could become less of a park and more of a tury Club, we had three toddlers. I care based on insight gained from those years. We had dog run.

In October of 1976, relatives of the late no backyard, like many families with young Frank Lloyd Wright held a family reunion in children along Ontario and at The SanctuOak Park to support renovation efforts at the ary, the condominiums across the park from Wright Home & Studio. They visited Unity us. We spent hours in Austin Gardens where Temple and several Wright homes, includ- kids could play in the sunlight and get some ing the Thomas House, owned and renovated exercise. We appreciated the park so much, from a neglected boarding house and meticu- often with a grateful thought for the Henry W. lously restored by Kathy Coleman and her Austin family who donated the space for peohusband. Kathy moved in there in 1974. My ple like us to enjoy when there were no other husband and I were the closest homeowners options in our neighborhood.

Rather than separate these two areas with a to the Stankus site (where 100 Forest Place is located today) and Kathy and her husband wall, why not make the Lytton site a plaza —

An alternative proposal

Photo by Marty Vernon

TWIN TOWERING: Christine Vernon (left) and Kathy Coleman were active in the 1970s opposing 55-story twin towers on the site directly south of the Vantage building (visible in the background). a piazza — leading people from the park and the neighborhood into Downtown Oak Park and giving shoppers a place to rest and move north through the Wright Historic District?

Oak Park has had millions of visitors over the years. Why not give them more reason to stay in Oak Park, a meeting place, a place to transition from touring to shopping? Why not make a plaza that is truly a gateway to the Wright Historic District from downtown and vice versa?

On Aug. 1, 2006, I wrote about this idea in Wednesday Journal (http://bit.ly/2gJkgT0).

I named historic buildings in DTOP — from Thomas Lamb’s Lake Theatre (He also did Madison Square Garden) to Oak Park’s Modernist high-rise by Hausner and Macsai (1010 Lake), and historic Westgate, modeled after Lake Forest’s Market Square.

Much has been lost in our historic downtown already. Do we really want to make a wind tunnel of high-rises down Lake Street that clearly divide the Wright District from DTOP or do we want to create a gateway plaza on the Lytton site, leading into Austin Gardens where people can rest in the sunlight and enjoy themselves in a natural outdoor setting?

Is progress one high-rise after another where people — especially the elderly — are housed in human filing cabinets? My piece generated positive feedback from neighbors and others but no positive response by anyone of prominence in the community until Aug. 29, when the late Redd Griffin (WJ http://bit.ly/2lrwZOn), a former state rep, high school teacher, and local historian, wrote a response in Wednesday Journal.

It is worth reading. Griffin related what I wrote to the 1830s when Chicago developers recognized that, in addition to commerce, “the environment must also be a kind of garden drawing people to visit. [We] have always had and need to continue to have a vision loftier than profit.” Griffin said the proposal was very much consistent with the early Chicago goal of “Urbs in Horto,” that is “a city in a garden,” which still appears

on the seal of the city of Chicago. Redd Griffin concluded, “It makes good historical, aesthetic and economic sense to become better acquainted with our landscape’s face and soul.”

How do we pay for the purchase of the Lytton property to create this gateway between Downtown Oak Park and the Wright Historic District Project? How do we accomplish any costly public works project? Lacking a philanthropist donor like the Austin family, the Mills family or the Cheney family, we have to find a way.

After all, we give $20-26 million in “corporate welfare” to a developer who is building 204 units?

What about the taxing bodies that are sitting on double-digit millions of taxpayer dollars? Pool taxpayer dollars for a project to benefit the entire community, including the people paying those taxes. There is no place in Oak Park where the addition of such a small parcel will make such a large impact to serve both residents and shoppers. This is both a park project and, now that Austin Gardens has an education center, it is an education project.

Considering all the money spent and misspent by the various taxing bodies and the village board over the years, why not return surplus funds to create projects that benefit the taxpayers using their own money?

It would be fitting for both District 97 and District 200 to support an idea that involves education. And it would be appropriate for the park board to take the initiative to make this additional land open space in the most densely populated area of the village.

If local government fails to support this idea, there is always crowdfunding for a project in a neighborhood that is internationally renowned and recognized.

An 18-story building is simply wrong for this site adjacent to Austin Gardens. The first step for people who want to protect the environment and the park is first to acquire the property.

The rest will follow.

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Wednesday Journal, March 29, 2017

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Real estate agents and lenders are no doubt the most visible pros in our industry, but working behind the scenes are appraisers, inspectors, attorneys, title searchers and closers, even county officials who keep the process moving, guaranteeing that the buying and selling of real estate proceeds with a minimum amount of hassle and maximum protection for all.

Throughout the history of our country, private property rights have been

considered almost sacred — one of the bedrock elements upon which our economy is built. Without the ability to securely buy, sell and lease real estate, those rights would be meaningless and, in my view, our economy would quickly grind to a halt.

and your deal is closed expertly are all processes that are designed to keep you secure in the knowledge that your investment in a home or commercial property is worry-free. And those processes take time, effort and professional expertise to be done right.

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Wednesday Journal, March 29, 2017

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Beth Annivey • 5th • Washington

Tylar • 4th • Hatch

Alex Walsh • 5th • Roosevelt

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Wednesday Journal, March 29, 2017

OUT ABOUT Thanks to Many Hearts of Gold Hephzibah’s 2017 Heart of Gold Ball, on Saturday, March 4, was an evening of gratitude and glowing tributes for Executive Director, Mary Anne Brown, as she received the Heart of Gold Award for outstanding commitment to Hephzibah over the past 40 years. Guests stood to applaud four times throughout the evening and helped raise a record-setting $400,000 to benefit the children and families served by Hephzibah – to whom Mary Anne has devoted her heart and her career.

Bridgeport Art Center’s lovely space was packed with more than 500 guests and twinkling with fairy lights on every table, as Mark Trinka, president of Hephzibah Children’s Trust and a former board member, spoke of Mary Anne’s accomplishments and the lasting impression she leaves on the hearts of those who have worked with her.

Senator Don Harmon issued a proclamation recognizing Mary Anne as a life-long champion of children’s needs, and thanking her on behalf of children and families in the state of Illinois.

Dan Farley, a former Group Home resident, presented Mary Anne with the Heart of Gold Award.

“She let me know that she was there for me, smoothing the path ahead and keeping a watchful eye,” Farley said. “Mary Anne was a beacon of light for me then, and she continues to be on my side.”

Top: Mary Anne Brown was called “The Queen of Our Hearts” and surprised with a throne, cape and scepter, as she received the Heart of Gold Award.

Above: Dan Farley and Lita Heise, both former Hephzibah Home residents, came back to congratulate Mary Anne Below, Left: Gala Committee, many of whom have long-time ties to Hephzibah, were essential to planning and executing the event.

Left to right: John Grimes, Laura Connelly, Kathy Malpede, Kim Lutz, Gwen Tonino (Gala Chairperson), Donna Rolf, Jen Weaver, Cam Niederman, Lisa Grimes.

Center: Hephzibah staff enjoyed the occasion to celebrate.

Right: Guests enjoyed cocktails and perused silent auction offerings in the Bridgeport Art Center’s enclosed Sculpture Garden

Farley recalled the comfort she gave him when he first came to Hephzibah at age 9, during a rough, uncertain stage in his childhood. Now 21 years later, Farley has graduated from University of Illinois, Urbana-Champaign; he lives in Madison, WI, and works as a project manager for a prominent electronic medical records vendor.

Also attending the event were former Hephzibah Home residents, all of whom have stories of how Hephzibah and Mary Anne Brown helped them navigate a critical time in their lives.

An exciting live auction kicked off the evening, including Bulls seats on the floor and premium Hamilton tickets. Bidders vied for The Sky’s the Limit package - a private helicopter tour of the city, embarking from the recently opened Vertiport facility, which was paired with dinner and wine at Eden, a restaurant launched in November by Jodi Fyfe of Paramount Events.

Hephzibah supporters helped this year’s Heart of Gold Ball exceed expectations in every way – by donating to the auction, attending the event, and sharing heart-felt messages to honor Mary Anne.

Many made generous financial contributions to ensure Hephzibah’s legacy of providing hope and help to children.

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Wednesday Journal, March 29, 2017

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SPONSORED CONTENT

Getting Down To Business

with the Oak Park - River Forest Chamber of Commerce March 27th, 2017

Diminishing Advantages of Suburban Malls

I

By CATHY YEN, Executive Director

planned an illuminating column on property taxes.

However, my journey to Oakbrook Center inspired a last minute change.

For local urban planners and those of us who spend our days thinking about our business community, Oak Brook is our nemesis. The parking, the convenience, the plethora of stores, the Apple Store, the lovely ambience, and carefree outdoor mall: the implication is “main street” cannot compete. When tackling an issue locally, invariably we hear, “the business owners / village government / development people better be careful because residents can just go to Oak Brook where it is easier.”

Well, on Sunday I went to Oak Brook.

I needed a specific shelving unit from the Container Store. Wanted to assemble immediately or I would have ordered it online. Quick trip.

First, it is easy to get lost within the campus unless you are looking for an anchor store. They may want to meet with Oak Park’s wayfinding signage consultants. The outer ring traffic circling the mall was unbelievable, poorly regulated by inconsistent stop signs and incoming vehicles.

None of the fabled parking was to be found. The surface lots were a mess of cars driving in all directions, ignoring pedestrian walkways, threatening fender benders and honking liberally. Drivers jockeyed for position hoping to claim parking spots from shoppers heading back to their cars. I found myself trapped in an unlikely convergence of restaurant valet, loading zones, curbside drop-off and driving lanes.

In the end, I parked in a parking garage far from the store. Yes, a parking garage.

Once inside the store, people were friendly but busy. I waited awhile for assistance.

Eventually a woman helped me and wheeled my clunky items from the stockroom to the cashier. When she offered to hold them so I could continue shopping, I yelped, “no!”

Time to go home. And, I still had to battle to retrieve my car and jostle for a loading zone spot just to pick up the items.

No, thank you. This so-called mecca is an over-crowded mess. Next time, I go online for what I can’t get locally. And BTW, our Apple Store is Gala-Tec.

DEADLINE FOR SUBMISSIONS IS FRIDAY 5 P.M. Call Viewpoints editor Ken Trainor at 613-3310 ktrainor@wjinc.com

I

VIEWPOINTS

More questions than answers

attended a District 97 referenda presentation recently, hoping to get the information I needed to make a “Yes” vote. Great schools are the bedrock of our quirky but awesome community. I’ve recruited a handful of young families to Oak Park in the past few years. Proximity to downtown, diversity, the el, and our schools all played vital roles in that recruitment. I was eager to hear the “true facts” about the state of D97, rather than “They’ll have to cut the Arts” or “We won’t be able to sell our homes” hyperbole.

The referenda slide deck and road show raised more questions than answers: • What percent of the referendum funds will be spent in classrooms vs. on administration/overhead?

• How many comparable districts cannot balance their budgets?

• Why is D97’s debt service already higher than the state average?

• Why does D97 say revenues are down when their own financials show them up — dramatically?

• Why did the district not budget for the enrollment growth, when its own consultants re-measured and accurately predicted it in 2013?

To find the answers, I brushed off my journalism training and dug into both Oak Park and Evanston’s school finances and pending referenda. Here’s what I found: We passed the 2011 referendum and will continue to pay its $38 per $1,000 on our property tax bills (the median Oak Park homeowner now chips in an extra $500/year). This time, the additional tab will be more than $1,000/year, bringing our new annual school bill up by $1,541.50/year for the median household.

I know people are fearful of their home values if schools slash attractive programs and class sizes grow. The future of our real estate investments is fair game. But isn’t it equally true that we might just make it impossible for people to afford the average single-family home in Oak Park if these referenda pass? The median purchase price for a home in Oak Park is now $350,000. The mortgage on that home (with 20% down) would be $1,420/month (without taxes, PMI

ELISE CUTLERDYSART One View

See D97 REFERENDA on page 46

OAK PARK D97 / EVANSTON D65 COMPARISON

Wednesday Journal, March 29, 2017

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Christine Vernon looks at Oak Park’s high-rise history in Homes p. 23

Business group supports the D97 referenda

of middle schools and renovation ix years ago, the Business and of elementary schools would expire, Civic Council of Oak Park extinguishing their debt payments and urged voters to reject a school offsetting the added tax burden of the District 97 referendum asking operating referendum. for $45 million in additional Instead, enrollment-driven expanproperty tax revenue through 2018. We sion also is advanced as a rationale, acknowledged that school performance along with facility upgrades, for the was instrumental to the quality of life new capital referendum. Barring in Oak Park and a magnet for families passage, the district forecasts cancelmoving here. lation of new classrooms planned for Holmes and We also warned that ever-higher property tax bills other radical fixes, such as temporary classrooms on were rendering Oak Park increasingly unaffordable playgrounds or segregating grades by schools. for families with school-age children and risking its But before setting out on an expensive expansion enviable progress in racial and economic diversity. of select schools, the board should consider redrawD97 is the biggest consumer of property taxes paid by ing attendance boundaries. If done in a thoughtful village residents and commercial interests. way, it can be accomplished with minimal disruption The referendum question passed, and since then, and meaningful savings, we believe. families with school-age children have hardly been A 2013 study by an outside consultant concluded deterred. Average daily attendance in Oak Park’s elementary and middle schools has swelled by more than 10 percent, to a projected 5,700 this year. Fall enrollment surpassed 6,000 for the first time in 40 years.

Another referendum looms.

On April 4, voters will consider a property tax extension providing an additional $13.3 million per year and, separately, whether to authorize issuance of up to $57.5 million in capital infrastructure bonds. Together, they would effectively increase a $10,000 property tax bill by $740 — double the impact forecast in the 2011 referendum.

WILLIAM CAMARGO/Staff Photographer This time, the Business and Civic Council supports Exterior view of the new D97 administration building on Madison Street. passage of both referendum questions. There simply that only Longfellow and Beye schools would exceed isn’t an alternative. The district warns that rejection capacity by 2018. threatens a 20 percent reduction in teaching staff, a Meanwhile, escalating taxes, besides imperiling 25 percent increase in class size and other draconian diversity and home ownership, threaten commercial measures. development, just as new rental towers downtown D97 has suffered (as all districts have) from a state bring sorely needed diversification to the village’s tax budget stalemate it says cost it $9 million. All-day base. Our concerns haven’t changed since 2011. kindergarten has added pupils and more costs.

Our “yes” vote recommendation this time around The school board itself is not blameless. It has reflects another concern: the current framework of repeatedly approved budgets with significant deficits and severely compromised financial flexibility by school funding in Illinois, which ranks last among spending down the operating fund balance, from $36 the 50 states in support of public education. Placing million two years ago to a projected $7.1 million deficit the burden on property taxes to fund schools leads to in two years, despite brakes on per-pupil expenditure appalling inequities and isn’t sustainable. growth.

Until that’s solved, property taxpayers are on the Going forward, the community needs a board comhook. mitted to balancing its budget and living within its Members of the Business and Civic Council are means.

Frank Pellegrini, president; Marty Noll, treasurer; WilThe 2011 referendum was sold, in part, as a bridge lis Johnson; Tom Gallagher; John Hedges; and Greg to 2018, when bonds issued in 1999 for construction Melnyk.

BUSINESS & CIVIC COUNCIL OF OAK PARK One View

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V I E W P O I N T S

Wednesday Journal, March 29, 2017

O U R

V I E W S

A ‘welcoming’ River Forest

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lready, Oak Park, OPRF and the District 97 elementary schools have pro-actively declared that they will work to protect the safety and the rights of immigrants and minorities in our communities. In choosing to be “welcoming communities” or “safe zones,” these units of local governments have made plain that the overblown and hateful rhetoric of the Trump administration toward Dreamers and Muslims will not take root in our communities.

Now we wait with some patience for River Forest’s village government and the District 90 elementary schools to follow the lead of Oak Park’s institutions. The welcoming community idea has been eloquently placed in front of River Forest’s trustees by students and administrators from the cutting-edge Dominican University.

Village President Catherine Adduci said she will place the topic on the agenda of a committee of the whole meeting after next week’s election. While the narrow-minded comments of Trustee Mike Gibbs will still be represented on the board post-election, we are hopeful that the three Journal-endorsed candidates — Tom Cargie, Patty Henek and Respicio Vazquez — will be in place to move this issue ahead.

About those clerks In a week’s time, Oak Park and River Forest will both have new village clerks. In Oak Park, voters will have chosen one person from among the oddly large pool of five candidates. Meanwhile in River Forest, one of two write-in candidates will become clerk.

With the continued diminishment of the role of clerk in Oak Park as duties have logically been shifted to other departments and technology has been put in place, we’re unclear of the necessity of the well-paid clerk’s position. And when River Forest can’t even find clerk candidates who make it to the ballot in the more traditional manner of passing petitions, it becomes something of an embarrassment.

It is time to consider enacting the local ordinances necessary to make these positions appointed rather than elected and to fold the remaining record-keeping duties into logical slots within the clerical functions of the village manager/administrator offices.

Our endorsements Oak Park Village Board • Deno Andrews • Peter Barber • Glenn Brewer River Forest Village Board • Tom Cargie • Patty Henek • Respicio Vazquez District 200 OPRF school board • Matt Baron • Tom Cofsky • Craig Iseli • Jackie Moore District 97 school board • Rob Breymaier • Keecia Broy • Katherine Murray-Liebl River Forest Park District • Cheryl Cargie • Lynn Libera District 97 referenda • Yes for operating referendum • Yes for facilities referendum

ELECTION

2017

Editor’s note: Due to the press of time and the large numbers of candidates, Wednesday Journal is not making endorsements for village clerk or library board candidates in this election cycle.

D

@ @OakParkSports

A taxing conversation

eath and taxes. Most of us accept death’s inevitability, but Americans have never really come to terms with taxes. Humans have been hotheaded about taxes for-almostever. Check out the Bible. One of the four gospels of the New Testament was written by a tax collector.

When it comes to taxes, two things are inevitable: People will always hate paying them and people will always pay them. Well, most people. The Tax-Evaderin-Chief doesn’t. Hell, we’ve got an entire political party devoted almost exclusively to hating taxes.

Hate! Hate! Hate!

I thought of this last weekend when I went for a walk and saw those angry yellow signs.

NO! Sends a message all right, but what’s the message? “NO! not ever” or “NO! just this once, maybe next time”?

Property owners are angry. Even for people who don’t actively hate taxes, there is a point where paying them becomes a serious burden.

A lot of Oak Parkers have reached that point.

Good people. Love kids, support education.

They would never put an ugly, angry sign on their lawn silently shouting at pedestrians as they walk by.

I’m sympathetic. The system puts too much strain on property owners. We need a multifaceted approach to funding education. I’ve heard this and all the other arguments — from both sides — many, many times during endorsement interviews for a quarter-century, in addition to editing thousands of letters for our Viewpoints section. It’s like being in the movie Groundhog Day. Here’s the gist of it: We have a system in place. Tax caps (a quarter-century old, courtesy of Jim Edgar) limit levy increases to 5 percent or the CPI, whichever is less (it’s always the CPI). They hold the line on tax increases but also force school districts into deficit spending, so every few years the schools have to go before the voters and ask for a raise.

Taxation with representation.

If voters say NO! too many times, we will (eventually) end up with a half-assed school system. If voters say “I guess so, sheesh” too many times, resentment will build toward the next NO! So the school district issues dire warnings about draconian cuts, increased class size, decreased property values, which may be exaggerated or not as imminent as implied. The opposition, meanwhile, is sure there’s massive waste that could easily be cut if only the school district were run like a business. So some opponents run for office, and some win, and they find out the inefficiencies aren’t enough to make a difference. With each “ask” (now a noun), the opponents get more melodramatic, warning that taxpayers will move out of town, we’ll lose economic diversity, people just can’t take it anymore.

Both sides agree the pension thing is a mess and that the state and the feds are too

screwed up and corrupt to expect any real help (especially true this time around). We must change the way education is funded, everyone agrees, nodding gravely. But it’s like that other inevitability, the weather.

Nobody ever does anything about it.

What’s missing in all this is an honest discussion about taxes, both nationally and locally.

Educating our kids is expensive and it’s going to get more expensive as education evolves. Oak Park has better-than-average schools, which means there is room for improvement. Our kids deserve that improvement. Diversity is great, but it makes our challenges more complicated.

Complicated means expensive. In a progressive community it should also mean innovative, but that’s another discussion.

If you want to impose a business model on schools, then we have to do what all successful businesses do: re-invest in order to keep up with the times — and innovate to keep ahead of the times. Old buildings and technology depreciate. We need taxes in order to re-invest.

If you vote NO! what comes next? What’s your plan for achieving educational excellence? Or are you content with “good enough”?

Money alone isn’t the solution, but solutions without adequate funding usually don’t get very far.

If you vote yes, will people leave Oak Park?

Some will, but they won’t find a more interesting town to live in. And those endorsement interviews I’ve been sitting through for the past 26 years? They included towns like Riverside, Brookfield, North Riverside, Forest Park and even River Forest. All say pretty much the same things. People complain about taxes everywhere you go. I’m sure there are suburbs with lower taxes, but that may mean they’re getting by with less. When it comes to education, you pretty much get what you pay for.

Good teachers and principals are expensive because there are fewer of them.

School districts need to get their financial house in order, but what about voters? I know there are things I could do without each year that would easily exceed this tax increase, and I’d be better off for it. If schools need to tighten their belts, shouldn’t we? Doesn’t it work both ways?

Yes, we need to make taxing bodies accountable for the way they spend our money. We need to know what we’re getting for our taxes.

We need representation. We need transparency. Most of all, we need trust in our school boards and administrations.

Taxes are more than legalized pocket-picking by an oppressive, occupying force. Paying taxes is the foundation of responsible citizenship — even more than voting. “Freedom isn’t free.” We’re being asked to citizen-up and make sacrifices for the common good.

Taxes aren’t a necessary evil. They’re just necessary.

No matter how you vote, we need to come to terms with that.

KEN

TRAINOR

V I E W P O I N T S C A N D I D A T E

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V I E W S

I want to keep Oak Park moving forward

hank you to Wednesday Journal for your endorsement. Thank you to the VMA for your endorsement of Peter, Lori and me. It matters to me that the Journal and VMA have recognized what I have tried to accomplish in my service to our community and that I am prepared to continue to serve.

Thank you to Deno, Dan and Simone for your public statements regarding the attempt to keep us off the ballot and your belief voters should decide. That view has also been expressed at the administrative level and two judicial levels. I don’t know Kevin Peppard or Bob Milstein. I am sure they believe they are protecting the electorate and Oak Park values, but so far a court has not agreed with them. And we are on the ballot.

Speaking of values, there has been a lot of talk about values and that this election boils down to values versus economics. Like towns and the people in them, values evolve over time. When Percy Julian and his family moved to Oak Park, they were not welcomed.

By expressing their displeasure that his family moved here, some thought they were reflecting Oak Park values. Others made sure the Julians felt welcome. In that spirit, I’m proud to have been part of the board that passed our Welcoming Ordinance so all will know they will be welcomed in Oak Park.

Thirty-five years ago, when I moved to Oak Park for the first time into an apartment at Madison and Kenilworth, I had to walk to Madison and Har-

lem to buy an adult beverage. Oak Park was dry and that reflected the values of the time. Not long ago, some said we were literally letting millions of dollars walk out of Oak Park. Now, with the vibrant restaurant scene, local craft brewers and other outlets, those millions stay within Oak Park and are being used in a fiscally responsible way to provide services upon which we depend.

I am committed to maintaining and supporting diversity and affordability throughout Oak Park by leading efforts such as the one that helped bring in $1 million for the affordable housing fund. I will continue to seek ways to improve the economic and regulatory climate for business development as we deploy the $3 million we received in federal money to support small and local business development.

I will advocate for smart growth and development that provide many more community benefits than negative impacts. I am working with village staff to implement a strategy to equalize municipal employee pensions.

I believe that updated technology is key to the delivery of village services and I will continue to work for those upgrades.

I’m running for re-election because, over the last four years, we have done a lot to move the village forward on a number of fronts and I would like to keep us moving in a positive direction. I ask for your vote on April 4. Contact me at www.LeadingOakParkForward.com.

GLENN BREWER One View

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What I stand for

or the past six months I have fully committed myself to my campaign for Village Trustee. I have attempted to show an unparalleled level of commitment to this endeavor that I would bring to the role of trustee if elected. If you have been following the campaign, you’ve probably noticed I have accomplished the following things: ■ Energized a base of supporters that enthusiastically support my campaign because they know from past experience that I am the right person for this job.

■ Took the time to intimately learn about the issues facing Oak Park and the workload of the village board so that I can hit the ground running if elected.

■ Expanded my network of village stakeholders in order to have the necessary relationships to work effectively on behalf of Oak Park.

■ Shaped the dialogue of the campaign by bringing forth new ideas and perspectives and displaying a unique vision for Oak Park’s future.

DAN

MORONEY One View

Despite all of the hard work and successes of the campaign, I am only approaching the beginning of the work I would like to do on the village board.

I am asking for your vote so I can begin promoting the themes of my campaign.

A vote for Dan Moroney is a vote for a candidate who would be committed to the following: ■ Ensuring that Oak Park values are the guiding principle of village policy.

■ Reducing the rate of tax levy increases so that Oak Park can remain a place to live and do business as affordably as possible.

■ Working to meaningfully collaborate with other taxing bodies and municipali-

ties.

■ Creating opportunities for development and new business throughout all of Oak Park.

Now more than ever, I believe I am the right person for the role of trustee. Please learn more at www.danmoroney.com and consider voting for Dan Moroney for trustee on April 4.

Wednesday Journal, March 29, 2017

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 Viewpoints/ Real Estate Editor Ken Trainor Sports/Staff reporter Marty Farmer Columnists Jack Crowe, Doug Deuchler, John Hubbuch, May Kay O’Grady, Kwame Salter, John Stanger, Stan West Staff Photographer William Camargo Editorial Design Manager Claire Innes Editorial Designers Jacquinete Baldwin, Javier Govea Business Manager Joyce Minich IT Manager/Web Developer Mike Risher Director Social Media Strategy & Communications Jackie McGoey Advertising Production Manager Philip Soell Advertising Design Manager Andrew Mead Advertising Designers Debbie Becker, Mark Moroney Advertising Director Dawn Ferencak Advertising Sales Marc Stopeck, Joe Chomiczewski Media Coordinator Kristen Benford Inside Sales Representative Mary Ellen Nelligan Circulation Manager Jill Wagner Distribution Coordinator Caleb Thusat Comptroller Edward Panschar Credit Manager Laurie Myers Front Desk Carolyn Henning, Maria Murzyn Chairman Emeritus Robert K. Downs

About Viewpoints Our mission is to lead educated conversation about the people, government, schools, businesses and culture of Oak Park and River Forest. As we share the consensus of Wednesday Journal’s editorial board on local matters, we hope our voice will help focus your thinking and, when need be, 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, call Viewpoints editor Ken Trainor at 708-613-3310 or email him 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

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Wednesday Journal, March 29, 2017

C A N D I D A T E

Working to engage the community on the issues This story is about Our Town. It is written by Simone Boutet.

The name of the town is Oak Park — Latitude 41 degrees, 8 minutes, Longitude 87 degrees, 7 minutes.

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ix months ago, I decided to run for trustee to further the values that make Oak Park special. I now want to thank you, Oak Park, for working for our town through political and civic life. You have confirmed my belief in our town time after time.

You proved that inclusion means not judging a book by its cover. On the street or at an el stop, I would stop and talk to strangers. I learned never to predict how people might react — even the toughest-looking guys were soft-hearted and warm.

You were experts and you were ordinary folks. You thanked me for running, smiled and encouraged me.

You energized me with your passionate opposition to the Albion development and your willingness to fight for your principles. You fight to preserve Oak Park’s assets, including its historic architecture, walkability, trees and open space.

You marched, you organized and you continue to fight for progressive values at all levels of government.

Decades ago and through today, you have worked hard for integration and diversity.

You amazed me with your insight and advocacy on issues as diverse as affordable housing, equity and education, the environment, restorative justice, women’s issues, the arts, you name it.

This is the Oak Park I love.

But you have also voiced serious concerns that are not being addressed by village government: Empty-nesters and young families alike echo my fear that rising taxes may force them out while they also remain committed to funding high-quality education. I will fight to create a plan for our community that prioritizes expensive projects to manage your tax dollars the way you manage your checkbook.

I will not spend money that we do not have in our budget.

Instead of development for development’s sake, I want to focus on projects that meet community needs. I will work to develop affordable housing options and advocate for commercial development that brings jobs in our community.

I continue to hear about poor employee morale and its effect on customer service. I will advocate for pro-social management policies that allow employees to contribute and be their best selves.

Neighbors feel left out of the business of government. Our village deserves a board of trustees that will openly engage with the community on the issues. The board needs to continually earn the public’s trust.

We need to work on these issues now. I commit to you, Oak Park, that if elected, I will do everything I can to fulfill the trust you have placed in me.

Thank you for your vote. And thanks to all of the candidates, who through debate and discussion, have enabled the voters to make an informed decision.

SIMONE BOUTET One View

OAKPARK.COM | RIVERFOREST.COM

V I E W S

The D200 board: It’s all about the process

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want to thank the editor and publisher of Wednesday Journal for the opportunity to interview for their endorsement in the District 200 Board of Education race. In response to their endorsement editorial, I feel compelled to clarify my candidacy and set the record straight.

I am not a single-issue candidate, but rather one who is focused on transparency, communication, competency and collaboration to affect the most positive outcomes for all stakeholders. If you were to peg me with a single issue, my issue would be with the overall process that plagues this board: ■ The process this board uses when they believe that they are being good stewards of our tax dollars but still operate our school with an unbalanced budget with yearly expenses totaling $15 million more than revenues ■ The process this board uses to operate the school without a completed strategic and equity plan ■ The process this board uses to provide guidance to administration without any clear method for measuring success or evaluation criteria ■ The process this board chose when they voted unanimously in 2015 to bypass voters, raise taxes

without taxpayer consent, and issue nonreferendum bonds to pay for a $37.5 million, 50-meter, Olympic-size pool on the garage site, demolishing the 12-year old, structurally-sound garage, burying the pragmatic pool recommendation of the 2013 Stantec Report and failing to bring it to the community’s attention for review and input ■ The process this board repeated in 2016 when it ignored the results of the objective Fako phone survey which revealed the community favored a practical plan ■ The process this board used when they voted unanimously last month to allow a “no questions asked” $900 per day travel expense reimbursement for themselves, administrators and staff.

It is false and disingenuous to say that my involvement begins and ends with the pool issue. In attending countless school board meetings, I became aware of the broader issues that plague the school and its board.

The benefit of having great schools adds value for everyone. My wife and I were attracted to this community 11 years ago due to its integrity and diversity.

We hold these values high. We can achieve that with operational excellence. A vote for me is a vote for excellence through experience.

JACK E.

DAVIDSON One View

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Referenda, trust and the D97 board

he District 97 Board of Education needs to do a better job at engaging and communicating with the community, especially on progress that has been made on many issues and concerns. I have heard the phrase, “I don’t trust the board,” countless times over the last month, and quite a bit now in the local papers.

Much of this distrust revolves around perceptions of wasteful programs, false promises and lack of transparency. Many fear that this history will continue into the future. I have to admit I shared some of these concerns. So to run for the board, I did my research to find out as much as possible about our schools: listening and talking with parents, teachers, residents without school children, and board members, and attended numerous board meetings.

What I have found is that the board has been very active in trying to fix problems from the past. The board has acted to provide a more stable school environment with specific goals, plans and timetables; established policies and practices for aggressive financial management and budget controls; and worked with the teachers and found compromise on a teacher contract, considered a model for other districts to follow.

Other changes, I believe, are moving the district in the right direction. Obviously, things are not perfect and more needs to be done, but we have a good solid

start. Not many people know about these changes and in the past, the board did not effectively communicate these improvements to parents or the community. The board must lead the way to improve communication with the Oak Park community, parents and teachers through aggressive outreach and respectful interactions.

These opportunities for learning will require active listening and new channels of communication. The Illinois Association of School Boards (www.iasb.com/principles.cfm) emphasizes strong, aggressive, ongoing and meaningful communication with the community they serve and other stakeholders. “Effective communication is essential to create trust and support among community.”

In the future, the comment I want to hear is, “I trust the board!” I ask all of us to do the work and make sure you are informed about where we are now and consider where we want to be in the future.

Use this current understanding, rather than perceptions of the past, to make decisions on the referenda and who you will trust to represent your concerns about D97. If you are well versed and want to make changes, get involved and act!

Here’s the bottom line: Live in and complain about the past, vote no, and then, complain about the continued high taxes and the bad schools, or learn from the past, learn about the present, vote yes and actively demand better schools and better care of your tax dollars with respect and an open mind.

DAVID

YAMASHITA One View

Wednesday Journal, March 29, 2017

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Wednesday Journal, March 29, 2017

C A N D I D A T E

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As clerk I will try to demystify government

ne of the questions I get from nearly everyone I’ve talked to in the last four months is “What does the clerk do?”

I admit, I had a dim idea of the actual role of the clerk when I started this process in July of last year. I learned through asking questions, reading and research that the role of the clerk is very important in the life blood of the community: This person is the liaison to the community and steward of the public record.

They facilitate special events, early voting, and the local census; they are the first line of defense for people looking for answers from their leaders and results from elected officials.

The most important role of the clerk is disseminator of official information and communication.

I have been to countless village board meetings and have seen firsthand what

happens when people are ill informed about things — the hoopla over Mr. Taglia’s appointment to trustee, comes to mind. And while I am pleased about the level of engagement that appears to be growing; I feel strongly that accurate information needs to be easily accessible.

When I am elected, I will continue to work hard to give the best information available.

I will be a champion for those who want more transparency in government and more access to information in the village.

Simply put, I’m different from the other candidates because I’m running for all of us.

I want to demystify the government so the average person understands what they can do. I want more people involved because like you I want change. I’m with you, and a vote for me is a vote for us. http://facebook.com/voterobinsonparran

JAMES

ROBINSON PARRAN One View

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V I E W S

Proud of progress, but more work to be done

appreciate Wednesday Journal’s description of me as “smart and decent” and “passionate about education.”

And I agree that the years ahead could be “breakout years for Oak Park and River Forest High School.” I believe my leadership on the board has helped put us in this position and my experience during these tumultuous four years makes me an even stronger board member.

Because the entire board turned over in the last two elections, one of us had to become president early in our term. My colleagues chose me for that role, mostly, I believe, because of my listening and facilitation skills and the courage to step into that very difficult position.

Similarly, I took on leadership around the controversial and complex fund balance and pool issues, actively balancing

widely diverse views in the community. The work is not done, and we keep learning how to improve our engagement with the full community, but I am proud of our progress and look forward to meeting these and other challenges moving forward.

We have a new superintendent, an ambitious strategic plan striving boldly for equity and excellence, a clear process forward on facilities, and a strong board that I helped to build. I believe that, by continuing on the board, I will help us make major strides for our students and community.

Most importantly, I remain passionately committed to ensuring that every student is engaged, challenged, supported, and inspired, and I will continue to work tirelessly to achieve that goal.

JEFF

WEISSGLASS One View

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A community conversation will generate solutions

am a candidate who gives ideas and finds solutions.

By engaging the community at the start of the problemsolving process, we can elicit a greater variety of ideas and feedback. The more diverse our ideas, the more likely we are to formulate a solution that truly addresses our needs. I’m not afraid to start the conversation by sharing ideas, taking criticism, and using that feedback to refine a plan until we get the solution right.

As perfect as Oak Park may seem, we have some pretty scary issues, and we need to start the community conversation to find creative solutions. Property taxes are the elephant in the room. It’s easy to talk about all the things we would do if we were flush with money. It’s hard to formulate back-up plans, but doing do so is the responsible thing to do.

We brag about our diversity and inclusiveness, but if you look at the statistics, our achievement gap is larger than the state average. That’s a problem, and our efforts to solve it keep falling short. As a scientist, I know that even the best evidence-based solutions will never work unless we have buyin from the teachers, students, and parents in our community.

Instead of looking to the ivory towers and continuing the insanity of implementing solutions that don’t work, we should take a grassroots approach. Why not ask the students and families in our district, “What can we do to help you?”

I admit, I don’t have all the answers, but I will start the conversations and work with members of the community to find them. Please vote Heather Claxton-Douglas for District 97 school board on April 4.

HEATHER CLAXTON DOUGLAS One View

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Imagine the possibilities of collaboration I attended Mayor Anan Abu-Taleb’s town hall meeting on March 15. Chicago’s 29th Ward Alderman Christopher Taliaferro (Galewood & Austin) was the featured speaker for the first half of the meeting while Mayor AbuTaleb addressed the proposed Albion private luxury development at 1000 Lake St. during the second half.

What I appreciated most from the meeting was how Alderman Taliaferro made every attempt to dispel the myth of a pervasive sense of hopelessness throughout Austin. Instead, he painted the presence of thriving hope and the perseverance of a community determined to move forward. Language such as this helps to change perspectives about Austin and Galewood and generates active and creative dialogue and solutions. It is here that growth and progress can be found.

Many positive projects and collaborations were mentioned by the alderman and the audience. Taliaferro also mentioned several pending projects with exciting potential.

My hope is that both leaders will deliberately pursue further dialogue. In fact, I would suggest that they establish a joint commission, comprising Oak Park, Austin, and Galewood residents, to explore a variety of topics that could strengthen each community.

Imagine the possibilities from such sustained efforts.

Ken Woods Oak Park

Baron: Balanced and knowledgeable This is to endorse Matt Baron for District 200 Board of Education. As a previous four-year school board member (in Iowa), I found this one of the most rewarding experiences but also know that it takes a certain type of person (like Matt) to handle this opportunity well.

I have known Matt for over five years, one being on the Pleasant District Business board, watching his performance as the president of the Library Board, and various discussions pertaining to the activities within Oak Park: District 97, D200, and the village.

I find Matt very bright, a great listener, a balanced mind when considering issues, passionate about our community, and with his “digging experience” as a writer for the Tribune, he will become most knowledgeable about issues the board will face in the next four years.

Also, his personality can handle disagreement and compromise.

We are fortunate to have a superb high school for our children and grandchildren.

Matt will only enhance their opportunities as a District 200 board member.

Paul Beckwith Oak Park

Wednesday Journal, March 29, 2017

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Wednesday Journal, March 29, 2017

OAKPARK.COM | RIVERFOREST.COM

Boutet has Clarification from the assessor impeccable ethics

D97 REFERENDA Digging down from page 39 or insurance, just the mortgage). If the referenda pass, that same “median home” in Oak Park would be paying $1,265/month in property taxes.

How does anyone choose a single-family house in Oak Park under those circumstances? These tax hikes don’t get rolled back. They make Oak Park untenable

for the next generation and retirees for decades to come. I think about that and I think about the superior job Evanston has done managing their budget and their referendum communications. Evanston has earned my vote (if I could vote there). Oak Park has not.

The full details and analysis of the D97 referenda “ask” can be found at https:// d97factcheck.com.

Elise Cutler-Dysart, an Oak Parker since 2003 is the mother of three, a former Chicago Tribune executive producer (online media), and graduate of Northwestern University, Medill School of Journalism.

Editor’s note: Because numbers can be confusing, we ran Elise Cutler-Dysart’s figures past Oak Park Township Assessor Ali ElSaffar. Here is his response: This is a very complicated situation.

There are two issues associated with the letter you sent me. First, the reassessment will not hit tax bills until next year. I think Elise is using the new assessed values and assuming that they take effect this year.

In addition, when the new, higher assessed values take effect next year, the tax rates will drop. I am attaching a printout from my recent presentation which indicates the history of falling tax rates that follow increases in assessed values due to reassessment. I don’t think Elisa has accounted for the falling tax rates in her calculation.

It is very difficult to keep track of all of this, and easy to understand why there might be confusion. In addition, the referendum, if successful, will result in a tax increase this year of about 9%. It’s just that the increases will not be as big as Elise is expecting.

I hope this helps to clarify matters.

Ali ElSaffar

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Having served on the Housing Forward Board of Directors with Simone Boutet, I know she will be a strong advocate for all Oak Parkers, including the voiceless and homeless in our community, and those feeling threatened by the skyrocketing housing and rental costs.

Simone, like many of us, moved to Oak Park because of our village’s deep commitment to economic, racial and ethnic diversity. Many in our community are concerned that the rapid increase of housing costs, coupled with the lack of specific, mandatory set-asides for affordable housing, threatens the economic and racial diversity that our community cherishes.

Simone’s experience in municipal law and planning will serve her well. She will be a tireless advocate for transparency in village government and help amend new zoning codes to ensure that affordable housing set-asides be mandated with specific, enforceable guidelines.

I will proudly cast my vote for Simone Boutet as a person with impeccable ethics, a deep commitment to diversity, and a fierce watchdog for transparency in village government.

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We need Boutet at the trustee table I write in strong support of Simone Boutet as village trustee. My husband and I have lived in Oak Park for more than 23 years. We raised four children here, playing in the parks, shopping at local businesses, walking the streets, and attending village fairs as all Oak Parkers do. We have seen necessary and welcome upgrades to our community.

However, not all the changes and development occurring in the village are positive. How many times have I wondered, “Who is tending the store?” when yet another high-rise springs up. I doubt any of us envisioned Oak Park becoming an urbanized town of high-rises and dense traffic. Historic communities throughout the world take extraordinary measures to preserve their architectural heritage while initiating growth.

So who will provide leadership in Oak Park for all of us who love our village and wish for it to be vibrant and sustainable now and into the future? The answer is Simone Boutet.

Simone’s initiatives will focus on community needs, and less on projects driven by a need for profit. When a new project is called for, she will consider both utility and architectural integrity. She will place quality of life first and will look out for the residents who live here. She will listen to the voices of the citizens who care for their community and wish to participate in civic discourse.

With her at the trustee table, we can expect a clear, balanced and fully reasonable voice. I urge you to add your voice to the many who are counting on Simone Boutet to become a trustee this next election, April 4.

Deborah Kramer

Oak Park

Boutet sets the standard

Simone Boutet is the best of what Oak Park offers as an excellent public servant: She is wickedly smart, she is passionate about social issues, and she will be creative in her approach to cooperative and meaningful government interaction with the wants of business and the needs of Oak Park’s citizens.

In her role as assistant attorney to the village attorney, Simone gave wise and thoughtful counsel to those of us seeking legal opinions on behalf of our own clients. Her commitment to aiding those in need is evidenced by her service on the board of Prevail (now Housing Forward) — she was tireless in her efforts on behalf of those seeking housing

Jodiann Nowicki Pacer Oak Park

Boutet knows village government I am writing to strongly endorse Simone Boutet’s candidacy as an independent trustee for the village of Oak Park.

Unlike many other residents, I have had the distinct pleasure of actually working with Simone when we were both employees together at the village of Oak Park. I was able to personally witness her passion and commitment to perform both professionally and compassionately on the variety of projects we worked together on, whether it was finance, human resource or inter-

Malinski: Experience matters I’ve known Lori Malinski for more than 15 years and I have worked with her in both nonprofit and business organizations, so I know she has what it takes to step into the role of village clerk.

She knows and understands the official tasks of the office. She’s got the organizational skills, attention to detail and dedication necessary to carry out the clerk’s duties.

Lori also has a commitment to her community and the type of experience that will bring value to the job. She’s worked with all types of nonprofits for 30 years, with both national and local organizations. That experience includes volunteer recruitment and board governance.

services and employment/financial support.

Her reputation, professionally and personally, is impeccable.

She will be an informed trustee.

She will be unbiased in her dealings with the board. And she will seek new ways to streamline the process of citizen involvement when decisions are before the board that effect the vision professed by our community as not just a place but as “a way of life.”

Simone Boutet will be the trustee who sets the standard for other village representatives.

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Boutet is both competent and compassionate

I am writing to recommend Simone Boutet, an experienced municipal attorney, for the office of village trustee. I have known Simone for a decade and find her to be extraordinarily intelligent, competent, compassionate, and wise.

We have attended a women’s group together for several years. She demonstrates a remarkable ability to consider complex issues and viewpoints. Furthermore, she adores Oak Park and its people.

Jane Baldinger Oak Park

Personal attack on Boutet was wrong

governmental issues confronting the village.

Having actually worked in village hall will also provide her tenure as trustee a unique perspective to the inner-workings of village hall, something the other candidates will not have.

Finally, her honesty and integrity both as a human being and an attorney are unmatched.

Please cast your vote for Simone on April 4. I know I am.

Your endorsements for the Oak Park Village Board generated more heat than light. You dismissed Simone Boutet as “nothing more than a seriously frustrated longtime village employee who did not come close to getting the promotion she wanted from the village board.”

I did not learn anything from you about her positions or her qualifications. If you have valid reasons for disliking her, you did not convey them to me. After reading your article, I am more inclined to vote for her, to compensate for the body slam you wrongly delivered to her.

This kind of personal attack is beneath you, and fails to serve your readers. You can do better.

Oak Park

Oak Park

Gregory Peters

Harris will help library realize its potential

Susan Piha

Economos will listen to your ideas and opinions

Dan Finnegan

I am writing today to support my friend, Christian Harris, in his campaign to join the Oak Park Public Library Board. He is an entrepreneur in the community, a co-founder of Maid Pro, and a member of the Chamber of Commerce. He will bring energy and a new point of view that will move the library into the future.

Christian believes that the library needs to continue to change to better serve the community. Students, in particular teenagers, who go to the library after school should have the opportunity to participate in structured programs and have tutors available to them. The library needs to continue to improve services for all members of the community, including the less fortunate.

The library can also do more to foster entrepreneurialism in Oak Park. I will vote for Christian because he will push the board in the right direction in order to better realize the potential of the Oak Park Public Library.

I am writing to express my support for River Forest Township trustee candidate Holly Economos. Holly is enthusiastic and committed to River Forest. I know from working with her on several projects that she will listen to your ideas and opinions. Whether you are a longtime resident, senior or new family in our community, she cares about you.

Holly is passionate and can be effective on many levels. She has worked in District 90, served on village committees and nonprofits, and even has time to help at her neighborhood block party.

She will be thoughtful in her decisions and represent all residents. She will be an asset to the township board. Please join me in supporting Holly Economos on April 4.

Past-president North Avenue Business Association

25-year Oak Park resident and OPRF alumnus

River Forest

She was business association liaison for the Oak Park Economic Development Corporation for nine years and still has good relationships with our business community, especially with North Avenue and Roosevelt Road. She helped get the Roosevelt Road redevelopment project going, worked on the North Avenue streetscape project, and she is currently the VP of the North Avenue Business Association.

Lori is experienced, connected to the community, and dedicated to Oak Park. As village clerk, I believe she’d be the best representative for the people of Oak Park.

Carl Wahlstrom

Julie Moller

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Wednesday Journal, March 29, 2017

Weissglass is among the very best

I’ve been involved in education for 25 years, have known dozens of Oak Park school board members, and interacted with hundreds more at Illinois Association of School Board trainings and conferences. I believe that Jeff Weissglass is, without question, among the best.

Jeff and I have worked together for over two decades on various boards and committees and I have observed firsthand his commitment to equity, his passion for education, and his strong, balanced leadership: • Jeff has demonstrated his commitment to equity through 20 years of work in Oak Park, including leadership with Project Unity and village and District 97 equity committees.

• Jeff ’s passion for education led to his local service with the Collaboration for Early Childhood and D97 before joining the District 200 board, as well as his national work with Education Reimagined (www.Education-

Reimagined.org) and chairmanship of the National Advisory Council at the Johns Hopkins School of Education.

• On the D200 board, Jeff helped implement significant programs supporting under-represented students in Honors/AP classes, mentoring, and reducing racial disparities in discipline. He also took on complex issues that have festered for years regarding the school’s fund balance and pools. He has demonstrated the skills and courage to surface problems, respect competing interests, seek resolution, learn from setbacks, and persevere. In this super-charged political climate, it is critical that we support elected leaders like Jeff who take on tough issues.

I encourage you to join me in voting to re-elect Jeff Weissglass to the District 200 high school board.

Bob Spatz

Oak Park

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Weissglass brings skills, experience and leadership Strong leaders don’t just happen; they are cultivated through interactions and experiences with stakeholders. Strong leaders are good listeners, they see details and big picture, and their existence is rooted in a sturdy framework of shared core values. All of these qualities are critical because the most important job of elected official is to build consensus so that progress and outcomes can be achieved. When OPRF is blessed with strong, proven leadership, we owe it to the future well-being of our community to re-elect incumbents; to do otherwise is an unnecessary gamble.

Jeff Weissglass brings a wealth of skills, experience and strong leadership to the board of our public high school. He is a multidimensional leader who has elevated our school community through complex equity challenges, the modernization of teaching and learning, strategic planning, and the hiring of a new superintendent.

While serving as board president, other accomplishments include $30 million in tax cuts, the right-sizing of the high school’s fund balance, an increase of minority student enrollment in honors and AP classes, and a reduction of high school counselor caseloads so that our school’s

support staff are better positioned to monitor and reach all students.

In the near future, our high school is facing significant population growth, facility upgrades that are part and parcel of a historic property, and an unpredictable climate of state finances.

Strong leadership is our best chance of navigating through these social and economic challenges. Jeff has demonstrated the capacity to build community and stakeholder-based solutions that will keep our high school strong, healthy and impactful for the benefit of all current and future students.

As alums, parents of two OPRF students, and locally focused philanthropists who direct volunteer time and resources toward student achievement and preparation for adulthood, we are giving our votes to Jeff Weissglass for the District 200/OPRF High School board. We encourage you to take a good look at Jeff and his capacity to lead because the long-term health and vibrancy of our community depends upon your vote and strong leadership!

Support the Journal’s election letters soapbox. SUBSCRIBE. OakPark.com/subscribe

Mary Jo & Stephen Schuler

OPRF Class of ’80

V I E W P O I N T S

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A hearty endorsement for Barber and Brewer

Why listen to 30 of our neighbors?

As a longtime Oak Parker deeply invested in our community, I heartily endorse Peter Barber and Glenn Brewer for re-election as village board trustees.

I came to know Peter during his time on the District 97 school board, on which he served for eight years, including two as president. He brought a thoughtful, collaborative style to the board, and he always stayed focused on the ultimate goal — raising the bar for all children in our community. He led the charge for the establishment of a full-day kindergarten program and later the development of an International Baccalaureate program for our middle schools.

He built bridges with the other taxing bodies in our community through his work with the Oak Park’s IGOV Committee because he knows that our community needs to break down silos and work together on our challenges. This spirit of cooperation served him well during his first term on the village board, where he worked with other board members to improve village services, streamline bureaucracy, bring new businesses to all corners of our community, and expand our tax base.

Glenn also brings a depth of experience to the role, having served eight years on the board. He helped restructure the Oak Park Economic Development Corporation, which jump-started development in the village. He too is committed to keeping our village diverse and affordable and knows that requires a focus on the nuts-and-bolts of village governance — fair housing laws, pension parity and parking reform.

Peter and Glenn are longtime Oak Parkers who have raised their children in our village and devoted countless hours as volunteers and public servants to keep our village a thriving, affordable and inclusive community. They will lead Oak Park forward and deserve your vote on April 4.

The VMA (Village Manager Association) in October and September had 30 Oak Parkers come together in a selection process. Fourteen were new the process. We accept any Oak Parker who’s interested in good government. We interviewed all Oak Parkers who were interested in running for president, trustee, and clerk.

After six weeks, we began our process of selection. We chose Glenn Brewer, present trustee for 8 years and one who works very hard every week to be sure we look at all the numbers and what should be cut or where should we spend more.

Next, Peter Barber is a communications person and believes we deserve to know exactly what is going on and insists on getting the information out to all of us. He’s also the one who listens to Oak Parkers, hearing our thoughts, concerns and advocates for us.

Lori Malinski, for clerk, has many years’ experience working for large and small nonprofits. For the past 30 years her work includes, strategic planning, budgeting, special events and works collaboratively with all.

Please vote for: Brewer, Barbara and Malinski.

There are three other good candidates to choose from for a third trustee.

Oak Park

Oak Park

Ade Onayemi

Journal missed on Boutet and Moroney The Wednesday Journal gets it right about 90 percent of the time. But when it makes an occasional major mistake, its error requires an alternative view.

I refer, of course, to the petulant, ad hominem opposition to Simone Boutet’s candidacy for village trustee, contained in last week’s endorsements and its almost total neglect of Dan Moroney’s remarkable qualifications for that post.

The Journal claims that Ms. Boutet is “nothing more” than a frustrated former village employee and is therefore motivated to run for office. On the contrary, there is “much more” to her candidacy.

No objective person who has heard her speak or checked her website would concur with the Journal’s attack. When I was elected a village trustee 16 years ago, she had just begun her tenure as assistant village attorney, and served in that important legal post with distinction.

As to Dan Moroney’s candidacy, his deep family roots in the village inform his platform. He is a graduate of our elementary schools and OPRF High School, and his children attend our public schools. As a builder-contractor he will not be bamboozled by developers’ claims that they can profit only by building 18 floors high!

It is possible that Boutet, Moroney and Andrews would (gasp!) ask questions at the board table when the mayor expects silent concurrence. A dose of transparency would be welcome at village hall.

Galen Gockel Oak Park

Wednesday Journal, March 29, 2017

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Of all the trustee choices, Brewer is tops

As a current trustee (Colette Lueck) and two former trustees (Adam Salzman and Ray Johnson), we ask you to consider our input as you make your choices in the upcoming village board election. We are pleased to see the high interest in public service throughout Oak Park and believe a balance between new fresh voices and incumbency can help achieve community goals.

Collectively, we have roughly 25 years of recent village board experience and have worked extensively and directly with Glenn Brewer, Peter Barber and Simone Boutet — three of the five trustee candidates.

Based on our experiences, perspectives, and hope for the community, we strongly and unequivocally endorse and ask you to vote for Glenn Brewer as one of your three choices for trustee.

Glenn has the temperament, work ethic, institutional knowledge, experience, thoughtfulness, and commitment to continue to move Oak Park forward. He is a quiet leader — not flashy, but one who gets the job done. He treats everyone with respect, never has an axe to grind, does his homework, and knows what needs to be done to continue to improve community investment, carefully manage your tax dollars, and uphold Oak Park values in all forms, from people to place.

Glenn Brewer has been and will continue to be a crucial voice on the Oak Park Village Board on all issues related to diversity — gender, ethnicity, race, socio-economic, sexuality, and more.

Doug Wyman

Colette Lueck

Trustee, 2008-2017

Adam Salzman

Trustee, 2011-2017

Ray Johnson

Trustee, 2003-2014

It takes all kinds to make a wonderful world

About a week ago I had the delightful experience of viewing Ben Vereen’s performance at the Dominican University gala event. One of the songs he sang was “What a Wonderful World” and we do have a wonderful world — when it is not challenged by a “hate and fear” campaign enacted by our President Trump. As he tries to enforce an America of white supremacy, he is guilty of diminishing the value of our diverse society.

I want to share with you an observation I have made over the past year or so. Strangers have been readily responsive to my needs. I require a cane to get around and there always seem to be folks available to open doors or help me up steps. These are folks of every race, ethnic group, and age, and probably include immigrants. They make up our “wonderful world.”

The color of skin does not color the kindness they express. The religion they worship does not affect their de-

sire to help where needed.

I resent that this worldly attitude is being damaged by our president’s repeated remarks, stirring fears of Muslims, non-whites, minority races and religions. President Trump has used the expression “bad people.” The people who commit crimes (whether immigrants or not) have always been unwelcome and are duly arrested. It is an outrage to place all of any group into a description of “bad people.”

We Americans offer refuge to those in need and these folks are probably some of the ones who have helped me.

Please join me in writing to President Trump and inform him of how proud we are of our democracy, our diversity, and our Constitution, which can indeed, make our world wonderful.

Harriet Hausman River Forest

Questions on the proposed high-rise Regarding the new Lake & Forest 18-story high-rise: With the proposed fifth high-rise in downtown Oak Park, are we becoming a suburb of high-rises rather than a welcoming village with vintage appeal? Is this what the residents want or are we catering to builders who see Oak Park as prime real estate? What are the village costs versus income on the existing high rises? Will the hoped-for income

really keep make a difference in homeowners’ tax bills? Do we have the necessary fire equipment to handle high-rise fires? If not, how much will that cost? I think we need to slow down and not push through exceptions to our village codes without more information, thought and debate.

Shelly Uslenghi Oak Park

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Wednesday Journal, March 29, 2017

Clear choices for D200 and D97 school boards

Based on my experience as a former board member and president, Tom Cofsky, Jackie Moore, Jeff Weissglass and Craig Iseli are the clear choices in this election for the District 200 Board of Education. I have worked with three of these candidates on the D200 board, and am familiar with the District 97 work of the fourth.

These exemplary candidates have impressive backgrounds and accomplishments — Cofsky, Moore and Weissglass at D200 and Iseli at D97.

We are indeed fortunate to have such impressive candidates leading our schools.

A D200 board member does far more than build facilities. The annual D200 budget is nearly three times the recently proposed facilities referendum amount, which would have been financed over 20 years.

During their tenure, Cofsky, Moore and Weissglass have supported students. They improved the school climate by hiring an additional, greatly needed Pupil Support Services team.

They supported equity by revising disciplinary policies, expanding the tutoring center, and supporting the Early Childhood Collaboration.

They protected taxpayers by negotiating a faculty contract that brought teacher compensation more closely in line with other districts and tied future pay increases to the CPI-U, a measure used for property tax caps. At the same time, they supported teachers by expanding a 403(b) match to encourage savings for retirement beyond the shaky state pension system.

Cofsky, Moore and Weissglass participated in a forward-thinking

Vote for the arts and Yes D97

Finance Advisory Committee to address an oversized fund balance. In a district that historically took the full levy increase permitted by law each year, these candidates — along with leaders from the village of Oak Park and District 97 with whom the district had recently litigated — engaged the community to right-size the fund balance. In the end, they reduced the district’s lawful levy by more than $30 million over four years and refrained from additional, lawful levy increases in order to reduce the fund balance by over $70 million dollars in a decade.

Iseli, a longtime member of the D97 Finance Committee, joined the D97 school board when that board tragically lost member Peter Traczyk. Iseli quickly made his mark, helping D97 to achieve a groundbreaking collective bargaining agreement. Iseli’s background in engineering, University of Chicago MBA, and co-ownership of a financial services company reflect an impressive skill set that will make him particularly valuable as a D200 board member.

Oak Park and River Forest High School is the cornerstone of our community and needs leaders who are intelligent, strategic and have a balanced view of the needs of students, parents, teachers and taxpayers. Tom Cofsky, Jackie Moore, Jeff Weissglass and Craig Iseli have a record of exceptional accomplishment for our schools and communities. Their efforts are needed to keep Oak Park and River Forest the exceptional communities that we all know and love.

John Phelan

River Forest

Reassessing that tax increase We’ve been told that District 97’s two referenda would increase our property taxes by $74 per $1,000 of assessed home value. For many Oak Park homeowners who itemize income tax deductions the net amount is far less — about a $52 increase, not $74.

Some examples: 1. A married couple with taxable income (line 43 of Form 1040) between $75,000 and $152,000, and a current Oak Park property tax bill of $10,000: After deducting an additional $740 in property taxes, they would save 25% on their federal tax and an additional 3.75% on their Illinois tax, a total savings of almost 30%, so the

OAKPARK.COM | RIVERFOREST.COM

$740 increase becomes, in effect, only about $520.

2. For a married couple with income of $18,551 to $75,300, the total tax savings would be about 19%, so the $740 increase becomes about $600.

Obviously everybody’s situation is a bit different, but the principle is clear — if you itemize income tax deductions, your net increase in taxes (property tax plus federal and state income taxes) is likely to be 19-30% less.

A big increase, to be sure, but not as huge as it would first appear.

Alan Fox

Oak Park

We knew it was coming, but that doesn’t make April’s referendum vote any easier. I grew up in Oak Park, but when my husband and I decided to move here in 1982, it was for its diversity, closeness to Chicago, great access to public transportation, historic neighborhoods and architecture, and the amazing public school system.

We’ve lived in our home for almost 32 years now, and, yes, on occasion we wonder how long we’ll be able to afford to stay here.

Nonetheless, consider this when deciding how to vote: physical education is required, as are science, language and math. That takes care of all the kids whose interests lie in those directions. What happens to the little artists or musi-

cians if this referendum doesn’t pass? What if a creative class is the only thing that sparks a child’s brain in the course of their day? Some kids live for art and music and don’t come from families that can afford to send them to afterschool activities.

My husband and I are both artists — our children are all artists. They were fortunate to go through District 97 with all the creative classes available at their school. I know there were times when those classes were the only thing that got them through their day.

Vote Yes on April 4.

Kate Linne Oak Park

What should I give up to pay for D97?

I fall into the category of the miserly folks who plan to vote “no” on the District 97 referenda. Evidently I don’t understand that Oak Park will turn into a ghost town without the exceptional increase in property taxes for D97 this year (not to be confused with the regular increase in property taxes D97 will give us in the near future). I am one of the unwashed who refuses to understand that children cannot possibly be educated with even one penny less than the parsimonious per-pupil operating sum of $13,000.

Since this property tax increase will cost me roughly $750, I was wondering if some of the helpful folks supporting this can tell me where the money should come from. In comparison to my 2016 spending, which of the following should I cut out? Should I cut it from the $961.38

I spent at Mancini’s? Should I tell Dennis Murphy that he won’t be seeing the $437.24 I spent at Barclay’s and the $330.64 I spent at Poor Phil’s ever again? I could tell the folks at Carnivore ($402.14) and Delia’s Kitchen ($304.53) they are out of luck going forward. If I spread it around, I could skip the $292.88 I spent at Live Fresko, the $231.96 I spent at Citrine and the $181.93 I spent at Cucina Paradiso, or even the $172.33 spent at Sugar Fixe.

I need help in deciding which of these local small businesses I am going to need to abandon to cover this year’s D97 tax increase as this money has to come from somewhere. Hopefully the village has a program that can help me with this.

Don Anderson Oak Park

D97 shouldn’t blame state for woes I would like to dispel the myth that the financial crisis afflicting District 97 is largely due to the state of Illinois reneging on prior financial commitments. Although an attractive narrative, it’s simply not true. In fact, the state has paid — during the past few years — 90% of its yearly commitment (see note A).

And as of February 2017, it has pledged to pay 100% (see note B).

If you shout a falsehood long enough and loud enough, it takes on the aura of truth. And

the apologists for D97 have been shouting long and hard trying to spread this canard. But the inconvenient truth is that D97’s woes are due to D97 and not at all related to the state of Illinois. (note A: http://www.op97.org/d97referenda/ How-did-we-get-here.cfm) (note B: https://www.isbe.net/Documents/ gsa_overview.pdf)

Bruce Kleinman

Oak Park

D97 should get its Chevrolet As much as I hate to enable spending by governmental units, I feel District 97 has made a reasonable case that it needs a new car and my read of the proposal is that it is asking the taxpayers to buy it a Chevrolet. So I’ll vote for the referenda and figure out some scheme to steal my share of the cost since my Social Security inflation adjustment won’t even make a dent in it.

District 200 made a reasonable case that it needs a new car, too, but asked the taxpayers

to buy it a Lamborghini. It now looks like they won’t even get a used Yugo because once the tax bills reflecting the D97 referenda come in the mail in the summer of 2018, sticker shock will likely doom all referenda for the next 10 years.

Note to Ike Cap proponents — that isn’t a new car; it’s a luxury yacht. Don’t waste our money even studying it.

Bob Stigger

Oak Park

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An important investment in the future

Behind the hollow words “America First,” typed across a navy blue cover, is a fiscal document representative of a president who has insulted a prisoner of war, derided a Gold Star family, and spoken brazenly about grabbing women by their genitals.

It should come as no surprise, then, that this man has laid out a national blueprint intent on dismantling our incubators of compassion and decency. For the demagogue thrives on the devaluation of his fellow human beings; it is in his interest to take an axe to the combating engines of empathy and enlightenment that pose a threat to his agenda.

The National Endowment for the Arts, the National Endowment for the Humanities, and the Corporation for Public Broadcasting — the very entities that inform our humanity and offer informational truth — now have proposed balances of zero.

To ensure that our children are instilled with the skills of critical thinking and empathy, to act pro-actively so our schools don’t produce another Trumplike demagogue, Oak Park must resist cuts to arts education wherever and whenever they should arise.

On April 4, our community will be presented with an opportunity to remain culturally resilient in the face of fiscal malfeasance and itemized insolvency. To resist, we must vote “yes” on the upcoming District 97 referenda.

To be sure, programmatic viability requires funding. Some will argue that impassioned pleas for the arts must be dialed back to make room for the cold reality of budgetary shortfalls and belttightening tax policies. Others will write polemics fueled by well-intentioned grievances with the state. But we must be careful not to impugn our local officials by virtue of their proximity to government.

The fault lies not with the district but at the feet of federal and state legislatures, who for decades have chronically failed to prioritize funding for our systems of public education. Our children should not bear the brunt of political irresponsibility. Should it be fiscally possible, we must prioritize our local capital to remain solvent. We must be defiant.

Our property taxes will go up, but the return will be worthwhile: 145 jobs saved, a culturally vibrant arts scene retained, and an important investment of love in the future leaders of our country will be made.

Johnny Figel Oak Park

V I E W P O I N T S

Wednesday Journal, March 29, 2017

Not dropping the challenge I am writing in response to Wednesday Journal’s online article in which race is raised, by Glenn Brewer and Peter Barber, as the motivation for the challenge to their nominating petitions.

The VMA, and their candidates, want you to believe a false narrative. They want you to believe the challenge to their candidacy is based on their race and not flaunting the election laws.

The challenge to the two incumbents, and the clerk candidate, has nothing to do with the race of anyone. The VMA has decided to make race an issue.

There is no factual basis for the charge.

If they have a factual basis to make the charge, put it in to the public purview.

It is simple: VMA group gets together ... sets a strategy ... let’s call them racists.

Read the challenge material, but first note that citizens are allowed to challenge candidates. The VMA was unable to

cobble together a slate so they decided to skirt the legal requirements. Of course, the courts will decide the outcome. We have a legal system for a reason. If the candidates believe they followed the law, then they should just campaign and let the legal process work.

The facts remain: 1) The Journal itself felt we had a good point. Is the editorial board composed of racists? You endorsed them.

2) Theresa Powell voted against keeping the candidates on the ballot. Is she a racist?

In conclusion, the right to challenge candidates exists. We took this right to challenge three candidates who did not follow the rules. We are not dropping the challenge and if the VMA wants to push a false narrative, they can do it.

Bob Milstein Oak Park

The numbers don’t add up In order to justify the District 97 proposed tax referenda (which will increase the district’s tax levy by $13.3 million) the D97 school board claims that significant cuts will have to be made if the referendum fails. However D97 has spent more per student than many similar districts and some cuts will not likely put the district’s spending per student below similar districts.

Based on a Chicago Tribune article (2/14/2013), D97’s spending per student ranked above similar school districts in River Forest, LaGrange, Wilmette, Deerfield, Lombard, Palatine, Arlington Heights, Glen Ellyn and many others.

While this study is several years old, D97’s tax rate went from 3% in 2010 to 4.6% in 2015 — a 50% increase (from second installment property tax bills). Another Tribune article (June 2013) shows that Oak Park school districts had the second highest tax rate of suburban school districts, exceeding Naperville, Elmhurst, Evanston and others.

This leads to the conclusion that D97’s board is not as efficient in its spending compared to other school districts. A look at average teacher salary (Tribune,

January 2013) shows that D97 teacher salaries ranked above Western Springs, Prospect Heights, LaGrange, Glenview, and West Northfield. As an example of D97’s excessive spending an article showing the penalty amounts various school districts were assessed for artificially increasing teacher pensions prior to retirement (Tribune July 2015) shows that D97 had the second highest penalty assessment for overpayment among suburban schools. Not only did D97 pay inflated amounts to retiring educators (which Oak Park taxpayers paid) but the higher pensions had to be paid by all Illinois taxpayers.

The district contends that there has been a large increase in enrollment although census information shows that Oak Park’s population has remained fairly constant over the past 5 years without a significant change in D97-age children from 2000 to 2010. The district also states that it has lost $9 million in state funding since 2012. However its annual tax levy increased by nearly $16 million since 2006 (WJ, 2/22/17).

Jon Paulsen Oak Park

Hollis has served and will serve D97 well It is a pleasure to support Cynthia Hollis, attorney at law, for the position of District 97 school board member. I have worked with Mrs. Hollis for many years. She served as co-president of the Hatch PTO for several years and continues as a member of the PTO Council. She deeply cares about all

children receiving a quality education. Mrs. Hollis is also very supportive of parents and teachers working together to improve student learning. She will serve D97 well.

Sheila Y. Carter

Retired school principal William Hatch School

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Don’t get fooled again

I am writing in support of Jack Davidson for D200 school board. I have known Jack for years, he’s our guy, and here’s why: • Jack has spent half of his career in process improvement and cost efficiency.

• He has a background managing large financial budgets — including a $150 million budget across five P&Ls and oversight of all proposals and contracts.

• He understands relationships, which is crucial to his business, so for him this is standard operating procedure, systemic to his approach.

• He is a long-term thinker, developing sustainable ideas so we can all afford to live our lives here — while expecting the same excellence as outputs from OPRF. Our incumbents have worked hard, but in my opinion hard does not always mean in-sync. I appreciate and value insights and perspective each member brings to the board table, but I feel that accountability is a reality that we need at OPRF in short order.

Let us be honest, we need thoughtful leadership that inspires accountability and results, driven by prescriptive outcomes. Let us elect leaders who are reliable stewards of our precious tax dollars that can also improve the educational experience and improve performance of our district.

Kevin Norton Oak Park

Davidson for D200 school board I am writing to endorse Jack E. Davidson for the District 200 high school board. I have known Jack for many years and couldn’t think of a more proactive choice for school board.

Even before we knew he was running for D200, Jack Davidson was part of the reason we moved to Oak Park. He and his wife Allyson have been longtime friends of ours and they “sold” us on the village and all it would offer us and our young son, not least of which was the schools. Knowing Jack as well as I do, I couldn’t pick anyone better to help represent our children and model their future.

While we have a few years until our son is in the high school, we know that decisions made today will affect us long into the future. And now is the time to start making these strategic decisions that will shape this future.

Jack’s collaborative style and business acumen would be such a benefit to the board. He brings a project-based approach with levels of accountability that is critical for success in any organization.

Jack has spent his career not adhering to “business as usual” policies, so you can bet these same methods will be applied to a tenure on the D200 school board. By voting for him, you are choosing a practical and engaging approach to school strategy and programming.

Julie Parsons Oak Park

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Wednesday Journal, March 29, 2017

Breymaier is best for D97

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Repeal and replace … Gov. Rauner?

As the District 97 referenda dominate the local news, we know that, whether it is approved or not, we need a school board that uses our funds wisely and equitably. That is why we need to elect J. Robert Breymaier to the D97 board.

Rob will look for ways our schools can cooperate and collaborate with other local organizations and taxing bodies to identify cost savings while ensuring that our students receive the services they need.

As the executive director of a nonprofit organization, the Oak Park Regional Housing Center, he knows how to provide excellent services with a limited budget.

Meanwhile, with more than a decade of experience studying Oak Park’s diversity and integration patterns, there is no candidate better suited than Rob to address the racial opportunity gap at the elementary level, ensuring that all of our students have access to the resources they need to reach their potential.

He will also help ensure that our schools are safe places for children regardless of gender and gender identity, and that those schools are accessible to children with disabilities.

Oak Parkers have long valued excellence and equity in our schools, and we need to make sure that our schools provide both. That is why we will be voting for Rob Breymaier for the District 97 school board.

Julie and Brent Chyna Oak Park

Springer for the D200 board My name is Julie Springer, 20+ year resident of Oak Park and wife of candidate Doug Springer. Doug is running for a District 200 board position for Oak Park and River Forest High School. He would be an amazing board member. Why? Advocacy: We are parents of three children, two of whom have graduated OPRF and one still in. It’s a great school — we both love it and think it a big part of successfully preparing our kids to go forth. Ours have been athletes, musicians and scholars of all levels. We remain impressed by the dedication of the staff and faculty of this amazing school we live next to. Doug is pro-academics, pro-athletics (yes, we are both pro-pool!

Have you seen the pool? Yikes. We need a new one. Just a better plan to execute) and pro-arts. He will always have the broad interests of D200 at heart.

Planning: One of the key roles of the board is to help take all the different things we want — pool, expanded vocational classes, classroom tools, college prep, diversity — and figure out a long-range plan to get things done. Today, many decisions are made in isolation; with better planning and coordinating, more needs can be served. Doug is the most organized person I know.

Financial: We need someone who can do the math, navigate the tax burden and find new sources of revenue that don’t always require a referendum. The fact is, the state only funds about 4.9% of our high school and local property taxes another 87%. Doug is incredibly talented with finance and will help D200 get the funds it needs today and for the next 150 years.

Communications: Maybe it’s all those years in sales, but Doug can build bridges and foster relationships among people better than anyone else I know. And with so many voices — students, administration, faculty & staff, community members, villages — that’s a pretty key talent.

People who know him know that he always gets things done. He’s hardworking and forthright.

Doug would be an amazing board member and I would say to everyone: Vote for Doug Springer!

Julie Springer

Oak Park

The U.S. House of Representatives failed to repeal and “replace” the Affordable Care Act (aka Obamacare), which would have fulfilled a seven-year quest by conservative politicians to roll back President Obama’s signature domestic policy achievement.

Before the scheduled House vote last week (which never took place), voices on all sides chimed in to express their support or opposition, with one very notable exception: Governor Rauner.

Two weeks ago, when the legislation was first introduced, the governor said, “My first blush read is Illinois won’t do very well under the changes they’re recommending.” He added, “I want to make sure that people in Illinois are not left in the lurch.” Since then, the nonpartisan Congressional Budget Office has estimated that beginning next year, 14 million people nationwide would lose insurance under the GOP-backed plan — a number that would balloon to 24 million over the next decade. The bill would have

dire effects in Illinois, too. According to the Kaiser Family Foundation, more than 1,000,000 Illinoisans have gained health insurance under Obamacare, including 671,000 through a federally-funded expansion of Medicaid.

These gains would be undone under the Republican proposal, which is why several other Republican governors, whose states also expanded Medicaid, recently penned a letter opposing the legislation. With so much at stake for Illinois — particularly the poor, disabled and families that receive health care via Medicaid — how can Gov. Rauner remain silent?

If the governor isn’t willing to stick his neck out for the people of Illinois, instead of talking about repealing and replacing Obamacare, perhaps we should be talking about repealing and replacing him.

Tim Granholm

Oak Park

Claxton-Douglas brings people together Full disclosure: I am District 97 candidate Heather Claxton-Douglas’ less interesting half. Heather is the first person with whom I found it comfortable to talk politics, and trust me, I tried a lot. She never judged me for my differing points of view, and heaven knows I have a lot of them. But she listens, thoughtfully and respectfully, all the while trying to understand my viewpoint.

Most surprisingly, she does this with everyone.

It’s truly exhausting to witness. She welcomes any chance to learn and to teach. She has the humility to admit what she doesn’t know, the drive and capacity to then go and learn it, and the devotion to come back and teach what she learned. Heather actively seeks out stakeholders. She breaks the silence and gets people talking.

Her friends will describe her as “compulsively inclusive.” I can attest to this as I frequently find myself scrambling to prepare our home for an extra half-doz-

en guests that she decided to invite last minute. But that’s who she is. She wants the best for everyone, and she wants to be friends with everyone, regardless of their background, beliefs, or passions.

I dare say that if she had the chance to help on the pool referendum earlier, she might have convinced the board that their plans were less popular than they knew, and we might now be discussing the construction schedule.

Though she and I do not agree on every detail of politics, I know that everything she concludes is carefully thought out, and ultimately, open to re-evaluation from new information. I can imagine no better candidate for the D97 school board, and I certainly haven’t seen one.

I hope you give her the chance to earn your support, too.

Robert Douglas Oak Park

Scaman is the best candidate for village clerk Vicki Scaman is my choice for Oak Park village clerk, and I urge you to vote for her, too.

Vicki is always working to make our community stronger. She has been an active resident of Oak Park for the last 20 years, volunteering on committees and working with community-based organizations with a focus on improving access to services for all residents from mental health resources to arts and education.

She’s been an executive director of a local nonprofit and, currently, program director at Oak Park Township. Her extensive experiences, skills and contributions to our community make her that go-to person who helps community members connect with any resource they may need to get answers and move projects forward.

In addition, Vicki is always prepared and detailedoriented. She does her homework to understand a challenge before taking action. Her thoughtful approach, combined with learning from those who have taken on a task before her are rare qualities that enable her to execute well, create effective results and provide strong leadership.

Over the years, she has built lasting relationships with diverse community networks, allowing her to access all people to solve our village’s problems. Her relationships, experiences and dedication to protect the voice of our community and truly serve all of us makes her the best candidate for village clerk.

Support the Journal’s election letters soapbox. SUBSCRIBE. OakPark.com/subscribe

Melissa Ford Oak Park

Wednesday Journal, March 29, 2017

OAKPARK.COM | RIVERFOREST.COM

O B I T U A R I E S

V I E W P O I N T S

How can you be against the Affordable Care Act?

I am a beneficiary of The Affordable Care Act — specifically, Medicaid expansion. I work part-time for a church, averaging 25 hours a week. I’m also a live-in care provider for a 98-year-old gentleman. Finally, with financial backing from friends and members of my church, I’m rehabbing a two-flat to provide transitional housing for returning citizens.

I am your neighbor, your friend, a member of your church and local community.

I make a contribution to society. That elderly man has a much better quality of life remaining in his home than he would in a nursing home, and this saves taxpayers $80,000 a year!

And what about the returning citizens our transitional housing program will assist? While you may lack sympathy for people returning from prison, consider this: It costs $25,000 a year to house someone in prison. That figure jumps to $80,000 a year for prisoners over age 50. We hold people in prison simply because they have no place to live! This project saves tax dollars and reduces recidivism!

What’s my point? Simply this: I’m not sitting around watching television. I put in at least 50 hours each week, working in these various capacities. I cannot afford health insurance. There are millions like me. We make an effort. We do our best. We’re not lazy. We add value to society.

If you’re pro-life, Christian, Jewish, Muslim, or simply someone with compassion for others, how can you be against affordable health care for everyone?

And by the way, I’m a 60-year-old white male who did not vote for Trump. How’s that for irony?

Paul N. Eichwedel Oak Park

Send letters Ken Trainor, Wednesday Journal 141 S. Oak Park Ave., Oak Park, IL 60302 E-mail: ktrainor@wjinc.com Fax: 708-524-0047 Please include name, address and daytime phone number for verification.

53

Ward Fisher, 91

WWII veteran, lawyer and activist Ward Phelps Fisher, 91, a 50year resident of Oak Park, died peacefully on March 22, 2017.

Born on May 26, 1925, he was an Eagle Scout and enlisted in the WARD FISHER Army Air Corps during WWII. He received his B.S. from Northwestern University and his Juris Doctorate from the University of Chicago Law School in 1952.

In 1947, he married his high school sweetheart, Rita Guerrieri, who was an educational psychologist. A natural leader, he was a passionate defender of truth, justice, and freedom. He fought in the courts and in life for social justice and individual and civil rights.

He was dedicated to the Oak Park-River Forest community. He served on the Oak Park District 97 school board, the Oak Park Township Youth Commission, and helped negotiate the merger of First Congregational Church of Oak Park and First Presbyterian Church of Oak Park, which became First United Church of Oak Park.

A proponent of Open Occupancy in the 1960s and ’70s, within the last few years he was an active supporter of Scouts for Equality.

In the 1950s, ’60s and ’70s, he was involved with the West Side Christian Parish. He was the longest serving active founding trustee of Casa Central, a Hispanic social service agency in Humboldt Park, served on the board of the Hispanic Housing Corporation, and was involved in Chicago’s historic Poor Peoples’ Campaign and Marches.

He practiced law in Illinois for more than 60 years and litigated many cases on behalf of individuals, small business, churches and nonprofit organizations.

He was on the Attorney Registration and Disciplinary Commission for 18 years and served on the Judicial Inquiry Board.

Ward Fisher is survived by his daughters, Joan Carroll (Rick), Lynn Fisher (David Kundla), and Karen Fisher; his grandchildren, Lindsay, Chelsea, Giancarlo and Margarita; and his great-grandson, Griffin.

Visitation will be held on Thursday, April 6 from 4 to 8 p.m. at Drechsler, Brown & Williams, 203 S. Marion St. in Oak Park.

A memorial service will be held on Friday, April 7 at 4 p.m. at First United Church of Oak Park, 848 Lake St. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the Ward P. Fisher Memorial Fund at Casa Central, www.casacentral. org, 1343 N. California Ave., Chicago 60622.

Michael Kelly, 49

Evelyn Priebe, 80 Former Oak Parker

Michael Reardon Kelly, 49, of Hinsdale, formerly of Elmhurst, died on March 25, 2017.

Born on Aug. 21, 1967, he was the son of Michael A. and Marisue Kelly (nee Reardon); the brother of Kevin MICHAEL KELLY (Jill Earnhardt) Kelly; and the nephew, cousin and friend to many.

Visitation will be held at 11:45 a.m. until the time of Mass, 1 p.m., on Saturday, April 1 at St. Vincent Ferrer Church, Lathrop and North Avenue in River Forest, followed by interment at St. Mary Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, the family appreciates donations to the Alexian Brothers Hospice Center, www.alexianfoundation.org/2016-make-a-gift or to Wellness House, www.wellnesshouse.org/donatenow/tribute-gifts. Arrangements were handled by Drechsler, Brown & Williams Funeral Home.

Evelyn “Oma” Priebe (nee Eilrich), 80, of Johnsburg and formerly of Oak Park, died on March 21, 2017.

Born on June 25, 1936, she was the wife of the late Wayne E. Priebe; EVELYN PRIEBE the mother of the late Paula Ann Priebe (Mark Bloedel) and Cheryl (Terry) Kordik; the grandmother of Caitlin (Dave) Redmond, Alex Bloedel, and Kevin, Ryan and Logan Kordik; sister of the late Lillian (the late Fred) Koltz; and aunt to many nieces and nephews.

Visitation was held on March 24 at Drechsler, Brown & Williams Funeral Home, followed by a funeral service on March 25 at Trinity Lutheran Church, with interment at Bethania Cemetery.

The family appreciates donations to the American Cancer Society.

Doris Moroni, 90

Sarah Tatter, 67

Doris M. Moroni (nee McArdle), 90, of Chicago died on March 24, 2017.

Born on Aug. 8, 1926, she was devoted to helping many people during her lifelong career as a registered nurse.

DORIS MORONI Doris was the wife of the late Harry E. Moroni Jr.; the mother of Donna (Michael) Reagan, Patricia (James) Guilfoyle, Julie (Joseph) Bernardo, Doris Rigali, Carol McCormack, Peg (the late Jaime) Gregus, Richard (Maura), Deirdre (Mark) Sindberg, and the late Joanie (Robert) Donovan; the grandmother of 26; great-grandmother of 26; aunt, mother-in-law and friend of many; and the former mother-in-law of Patrick McCormack. She was preceded in death by her parents, James and Evelyn (nee Lush) McArdle; and her brothers, William and Robert (Irene) (Fran) McArdle.

Visitation was held on March 28 at Drechsler, Brown & Williams Funeral Home. A funeral Mass will be celebrated at 10 a.m. on Wednesday, March 29 at St. Giles Church, with interment at Queen of Heaven Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, donations to your favorite charity are appreciated.

Sarah J. Tatter, 67, died at her River Forest home on Feb. 25, 2017. Born on Sept.

11, 1949, she was a lifelong resident of River Forest and a 1967 graduate of Oak Park and River Forest High School. She received her law degree from Oberlin College and practiced law for many years.

Sarah is survived by her sister, Sue Ellen Tatter; her niece, Amanda; her nephew, Andrew; several cousins, including Susan Ward who was at her side when she died; and a number of friends in the Oak Park, Forest Park and River Forest communities.

No services are presently planned.

Registered nurse

Attorney

Drechsler, Brown & Williams Funeral Home

Since 1880 Family Owned & Operated Charles Williams, Owner/Funeral Director 203 S. Marion St. Oak Park 60302 708/383-3191

54

Wednesday Journal, March 29, 2017

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

YOUR WEEKLY AD

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

WEDNESDAY

CLASSIFIED

HOURS: 9:00 A.M.– 5:00 P.M. MON–FRI

Deadline is Tuesday at 9:30 a.m.

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.

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

BY PHONE: (708) 613-3333 | BY FAX: (708) 524-0447 | BY E-MAIL: CLASSIFIEDS@OAKPARK.COM | CLASSIFIEDS@RIVERFOREST.COM HELP WANTED

HELP WANTED

HELP WANTED

HELP WANTED

CHILD CARE/RECREATIONAFTER SCHOOL DAY CARE Hephzibah Children’s Association offers after school day care at all Oak Park public elementary schools.

The Program is accepting applications for warm, nurturing, energetic individuals to provide care and supervision of 5-11-year old children in the after-school program. Monday through Friday, 2:30–6:00 PM, Wednesday–1:30–6:00 PM.

LINE COOKS & DISHWASHERS WINBERIE’S (Oak Park) Winberie’s Restaurant and Bar in Oak Park is looking for Dishwashers and Line Cooks to join our team!

The ideal candidates will be friendly, hardworking team players. The Line Cook candidates will have some previous experience, understand recipes and be friendly, hardworking team players that are passionate about food. Open availability a must, full-time and part-time positions available.

PT WATER METER READER The Village of Oak Park is seeking qualified candidates for the position of part-time Water Meter Reader in Public Works. This position will perform a variety of duties including reading water meters and recording consumption; identifying water meter equipment problems and performing minor water meter maintenance and repair. This position requires walking and working in inclement weather. Applicants are encouraged to visit the Village of Oak Park’s website http://www. oak-park.us/jobs. Interested and qualified applicants must complete a Village of Oak Park application no later than March 31, 2017.

THERMO OVEN OPER/HELPER Thule, Inc. located at 7609 W Industrial Drive, Forest Park, IL 60130 seeks a person to operate thermoforming equipment.

SCHAUER’S HARDWARE PART-TIME CASHIER 25-30 hours, mostly Afternoons and Evenings. Weekends required. No experience necessary, but looking for positive energy people. Must be outgoing, able to work with customers, deal with money & problem solving.

Send resume to schauerhardware@att.net.

SUBURBAN REAL ESTATE

Responsibilities include planning and supervising arts and crafts activities, group games, helping with homework, and indoor and outdoor play. At least 6 semester hours in education, recreation or related coursework. Experience working with children. Contact MJ Joyce, Human Resources at: mjjoyce@hephzibahhome.org EOE COURT LIAISON OFFICER The Village of Oak Park is seeking qualified candidates for the position of Court Liaison Officer (Civilian) in the Police Department. This position will maintain departmental records of court appearances, process subpoena requests, prepare court schedules, perform other necessary duties related to court proceedings and operate as the liaison between the Police Department and Cook County Judicial System. This position requires a valid Illinois driver’s license and proof of insurability.

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 no later than April 5, 2017.

ELECTRICIAN’S HELPER PART-TIME Part-time Electrician’s Helper. Some experience required. Must have own transportation and some tools.

Call 708-738-3848.

LEGAL SECRETARY The Village of Oak Park is seeking qualified candidates for the position of Legal Secretary in the Law Department. This position will perform a variety of responsible and advanced legal secretarial and clerical duties in support of the Law Department; perform complex clerical duties within the assigned work unit; and provide secretarial and administrative support to Law Department staff. 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 no later than April 3, 2017.

Are you a For Sale By Owner?

Call Mary Ellen to advertise: 708-613-3342

Compensation: Hourly.

Competitive based on experience.

Benefits for any full-time employees.

Employment type: employee’s choice Please apply in person, Monday through Saturday, from 2 to 6 p.m., at: 151 North Oak Park Ave. Oak Park, IL 60301 PROPERTY MANAGEMENT & MARKETING ASSISTANT Oak Park (IL) Residence Corporation, a community based, non-profit housing development corporation is seeking an experienced, Full-time administrative assistant and leasing agent for its property management and marketing departments. The qualified candidate will have previous experience working in the multi-family rental industry; work effectively with both clients and co-workers; take direction well and work independently on tasks and assignments to meet established deadlines; provide support to Director of Property Management and Marketing Director. Must be proficient in Microsoft Office Suite.

This position will also provide leasing support and an Illinois leasing agent license will be required within 3 months of hire. Experienced in YARDI VOYAGER a plus.

To view a complete job description visit our website at www.oakparkrc. com/work-oprc. To apply forward a cover letter and resume to Beth Swaggerty, Assistant Executive Director at bswaggerty@oakparkrc. com.

Oak Park Residence Corporation is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We provide competitive compensation and a full benefits package.

PT FARMERS’ MKT ASST The Village of Oak Park is seeking qualified candidates for the position of Seasonal Part-time 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 no later than April 12, 2017.

SERVERS & BUSSERS WINBERIE’S (Oak Park) Winberie’s Restaurant and Bar in Oak Park is looking for experienced SERVERS & BUSSERS to join our team! The ideal candidates will have 1-2 years restaurant/hospitality experience and be friendly, hardworking team players. Open availability a must.

Compensation: Hourly.

Vacation & health benefits available for full-time employees.

Employment type: employee’s choice

Candidates should have some prior mechanical experience. The right candidate will have the ability to read a drawing, operate equipment and small tools. High school education or equivalent.

This full-time position offers a starting rate of $12.06 per hour w/benefits.

Please apply in person. Thule is an Equal Opportunity Employer, Gender/Minority/Veterans/Disabled.

HISTORIC MAYWOOD MANOR

902 S. 3RD AVENUE (2 blks W of 1st Ave & 1 blk N of Madison) Tired of renting? Why not consider buying an affordable 2BR condo w/ 1000+ sq ft of living space? Savings are built in from a unique 12 year tax freeze plus lower utility costs from energy saving systems and appliances. Onsite pkg, exterior lighting and enhanced security systems included. Plus you can customize and design your living space to better meet your needs! For details Call 708-383-9223.

SUBURBAN REAL ESTATE

CITY RENTALS

BEAUTIFUL GUNDERSON HOME Walk to all schools & Green & Blue Lines, spacious airy, 5 bd, 4 baths, large yard 533 S. Elmwood Ave. Open House on Sunday 1 to 4 pm OR call 708-407-0223. Large master bedr with private master bath, rec room, 4 floors of living space, elegant arches, 7 large bay windows, Price: high fives, agents 2%, for sale by owner. Library 2 blks, new basketball ct, new tennis, tot lot, baseball just one block, schools very, very close, walk to 2 aquatic centers and ice skating rink–best location!

SUBURBAN RENTALS FOREST PARK 2 BR Updated 2BR Lower Level unit in Forest Park. Plus 1 misc. room.

Free parking. Near transportation, shopping, school & park dist. No laundry on site. Avail Apr. 1. $900/ mo + $900 sec. dep.

Call 708-488-9018.

OAK PARK 2BR 2 Bedrooms, LR, DR, hardwood floors, tile bath, heat included. $1,250 + 1 mo security. Call 708717-3975 OAK PARK FOREST PARK Studio, 1, and 2 BDRM. Heated.

Dining room. Parking available.

Walk to El. $625-$1250.

www.oakrent.com

Buying? Selling? Renting? Hiring?

Advertise in WEDNESDAY CLASSIFIED 708613-3333

Please apply in person, Monday through Saturday, from 2 to 4 p.m., at: 151 North Oak Park Ave. Oak Park, IL 60301

This temporary full time Summer program runs from June 12th through August 11th, Monday through Friday. Individuals work an 8-hour shift between the hours of 7:30am and 6:00pm.

GLA PROPERTY MANAGEMENT, INC.

Equal Opportunity Employer

* RIVER FOREST * 7777 Lake St. - 3 & 5 room suites 7756 Madison St. - Store: 926 sq. ft.

- Office: 900 sq. ft.

ROOMS FOR RENT AUSTIN CLEAN ROOM With fridge, micro.

Nr Oak Park, Super Walmart, Food 4 Less, bus, & Metra. $116/wk and up.

773-637-5957 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

SPACE FOR RENT OAK PARK SPACE Suitable for not-for-profit. Varied uses possible such as school, office spaces, community services center, clinic, etc. Please call 312-810-5948

* OAK PARK *

6955 North Ave. - 3 room office suite 6957 North Ave. - 2 room office suite 6142-44 Roosevelt Rd. - 4 room office suite

Strand & Browne 708/488-0011

CHURCHES FOR RENT MAYWOOD COUNTRY CHURCH

Lovely, old fashioned country church in Maywood, on corner of Fifth and Erie is looking for a roommate or tenant. We are willing to work out a flexible arrangement if you are an appropriate tenant. Various size spaces. Call 708 344-6150, leave a message.

OAK PARK CLASSIC CHURCH FOR RENT

Includes Sanctuary, Fellowship Hall, Kitchen, Midweek Service/ Bible Study, Office Options.

708-848-5460

Apartment listings updated daily at: 708-386-7355 • www.mmpropmgt.com 649 Madison Street, Oak Park

Contact: Amy O’Rourke at: aorourke@hephzibahhome.org

OFFICE SPACE FOR RENT

SUBURBAN RENTALS

SUMMER DAY CARE Hephzibah Children’s Association offers a Summer Day Care program in Oak Park, IL. We are seeking caring, nurturing individuals to provide care and supervision of 5–11-yearold children.

Responsibilities include planning and supervising play shops, arts and crafts, sports, activities, group games, and indoor and outdoor play. Staff accompany and supervise children at the swimming pool and on weekly field trips.

Requirements include a minimum of 6 semester hours in education, recreation, social work, or related college courses. Previous experience working with school aged children preferred.

AUSTIN VILLAGE 5939 W. Midway Parkway Remodeled 1 BR. Half block from Oak Park, Green Line & shops. 3rd Floor. $800/month. Heat not included. 708-383-9223 or 773-676-6805.

M&M property management, inc.

Oak Park: Studios, 1 & 2 BR from $750-$2000 Forest Park: 1 & 2 BR from $750-$1300

LaVerne Collins Managing broker

Office located at: 320 S. Wisconsin Ave. Oak Park

708-763-9927 www.glapropertymanagement.com

Properties may be broker owned.

Call us for a complete list of rentals available.

Find your new apartment this Saturday from 10 am – 4pm at 35 Chicago Avenue.

Or call us toll free at 1-888-328-8457 for an appointment.

You have jobs.

We have readers!

Find the best employees with Wednesday Classified! Call 708-613-3342

Wednesday Journal, March 29, 2017

OAKPARK.COM | RIVERFOREST.COM

CLASSIFIED RUMMAGE SALES River Forest

RUMMAGE SALE RIVER FOREST U.M. CHURCH 7970 LAKE ST (Lake & Thatcher)

SAT APR 1 9AM TO 1PM

CASH ONLY: Clothes, housewares, furniture, bookcases, metal storage cabinets, wood file cabinets, books, toys, old wooden chests, banquet tables, decorations, antique zinc garden table, odds & ends–SPRING CLEANING!

ITEMS FOR SALE BUMPER POOL TABLE $40 obo.

BLONDE CHEST OF DRAWERS Dust Proof & DRESSER with MIRROR. $150 FOR BOTH. Call 708-488-8755.

FINE CHINA Lucien Piccard Fine China. Cream with platinum rim. 12 place settings. $150. Call 708-488-8755.

FUTON Black futon on heavy iron frame. $49. Call 708-488-8755.

OUTDOOR FURNITURE High Quality Outdoor furniture.

Heavy wrought iron. $125 obo.

Call 708-488-8755.

SEWING MACHINE Singer Sewing Machine. Like new. $49.00. Call 708-488-8755.

Weber Grill Large double burner prpoane gas grill.Stainless Steel Cabinet.

Excellent condition. $250 obo.

FURNITURE Dining Buffet & Hutch Qaulity Colonial dining buffet with hutch display top. $250.

Call 708-689-0498.

Leave message and phone number.

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

CEMENT

(708) 613-3333 • FAX: (708) 524-0447 • E-MAIL: CLASSIFIEDS@OAKPARK.COM | CLASSIFIEDS@RIVERFOREST.COM

CEMETERY LOTS

CEMENT

Mount Auburn Cmetery Plot Beautiful plot in Mount Auburn Cemetery. Rare spot in Gracelawn Gardens, `Eyes of the Lord.’ Lot 25, Grave 13. Stacked. 2 lawn crypts and double headstone. If interested call (708) 703-7572

Finishing Touch Cement & Masonry

AUTOS FOR SALE 2005 VOLKSWAGEN GOLF GL 4 dr hatch. Automatic. 44k low miles. $4500. Call 708-383-8507.

CHURCHES Find Hope this Easter!

Join us this Sunday and every Sunday leading up to Easter to experience HOPE and find God’s purpose for your life.

New Life Community Church

3801 Madison in Brookfield Sundays @ 11:30 Children’s ministry is available Free gifts for all visitors. (meeting at Faith Lutheran Church)

newlifebrookfield.org 708.277.9191

PETS While you’re away, your pets are okay . . . at home

cat calls

Oak Park’s Original Pet Care Service – Since 1986

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

524-1030

TAX SERVICES INCOME TAXES

BY CPA. Inexpensive. Will travel. www.fiazeissa.com or 708-870-5006

CEMENT

MAGANA

C O N C R E T E C O N S T RU C T I O N “QUALITY IS OUR FOUNDATION� ESTABLISHED IN 1987

COMMERCIAL ˜ INDUSTRIAL ˜ RESIDENTIAL

708.442.7720 '5,9(:$<6 Â&#x2021; )281'$7,216 Â&#x2021; 3$7,26 67(36 Â&#x2021; &85% *877(56 Â&#x2021; 6,'(:$/.6 612: 3/2:,1* Â&#x2021; 67$03(' &2/25(' $**5(*$7( &21&5(7( FREE ESTIMATES LICENSED, BONDED & INSURED

Plan a spring garage sale.

Call 708-613-3342 to advertise in Wednesday Classified.

55

Residential and Commercial Driveways | Garage Floors Sidewalks | Steps | Patios Specializing in Stamped Concrete Tuck Pointing and All Types Brickwork

Rocco Martino 708-878-8547

ELECTRICAL

A&A ELECTRIC

Let an American Veteran do your work

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

708-409-0988 â&#x20AC;˘ 708-738-3848

Sr. Discounts â&#x20AC;˘ 30 Yrs. Exp | Servicing Oak Park and all surrounding suburbs

GARAGE/GARAGE DOOR

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Our 71st Year

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Garage Doors &

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

A cleaner day is just a phone call away. For a detailed cleaning please call 708-937-9110

ELECTRICAL

FOUR SEASONS ELECTRIC

Full Service Electrical Work including

Rewiring Old Houses & Installing Ceiling Fans

Reasonable Pricing & Free Estimates No Job Too Big or Too Small Lic * Bonded * Ins * 24 hrs

708-445-0447

HUGHS ELECTRIC

Trouble Calls â&#x20AC;˘ Lights Rehab â&#x20AC;˘ Service Upgrades Lic - Bonded - Ins. Since 1986 Call Hugh:708-612-4803

Electricians serving the greater Oak Park area. Licensed, Bonded & Insuredâ&#x20AC;&#x201C;Reasonable Pricing & Free Estimates. Kineticâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s proud to say you have never experienced service like this! 15 years experience and dedication.

No job too big or small!

(708) 639-5271

FLOORS KLIS FLOORING INC.

New hardwood flooring installation & pergo. Sanding, re-finishing, staining. Low prices, insured.

Call: 773-671-4996 www.klisflooring.com

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Public Notice: Your right to know In print • Online • Available to you 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, every day of the year OakPark.com | RiverForest.com | PublicNoticeIllinois.com PUBLIC NOTICES

PUBLIC NOTICES

PUBLIC NOTICE PETITION FOR CHANGE OF NAME In the Circuit Court of Cook County, Illinois, County Department, County Division. In the matter of the petition of Xhevat Shefik Sherifi on behalf of Adrian Xhevan Sherifi, Aferdita Sherifi; Artana Sherifi for change of name to Jack Prespa on behalf of Adrian Jack Prespa; Aferdita Prespa; Artana Prespa;, Case No. 17M3001772.

PUBLIC NOTICE NOTICE TO CONTRACTORS

Notice is given you, the public, that on March 10, 2017, I have filed a Petition For Change of Name in this Court, asking the Court to change our present names of Xhevat Shefik Sherifi, Adrian Shevat Sherifi, Aferdita Sherifi, and Artana Sherifi to the names of Jack Prespa, Adrian Jack Prespa, Aferdita Prespa, and Artana Prespa. This case will be heard in courtroom 204 on May 16, 2017 at 9:00 a.m..

Published in Wednesday Journal 3/22, 3/29, 4/5/2017

PUBLIC NOTICE AGENDA FOR THE ANNUAL TOWN MEETING TOWN OF OAK PARK, COUNTY OF COOK, STATE OF ILLINOIS APRIL 11, 2017, 6:30 p.m.

OAK PARK TOWNSHIP SENIOR SERVICES 130 S. OAK PARK AVENUE OAK PARK, ILLINOIS 60302 Call to Order Pledge of Allegiance Procedures for Meeting Supervisor’s Statements

Annual

Financial

Election of Moderator Township Year in Review: A.COMMUNITY MENTAL HEALTH BOARD B.ASSESSOR C.SENIOR SERVICES D.YOUTH SERVICES E.GENERAL ASSISTANCE Resolutions to Come Before the Electors: A.RESOLUTION RE: PROPERTY RECORD SYSTEM B.RESOLUTION FOR SETTING THE TIME FOR THE 2018 ANNUAL TOWN MEETING Public Comments Adjournment Published in Wednesday Journal 3/29/2017

Attention!

Home improvement pros!

Don’t be caught short… reach the people making the decisions…

Advertise your business in Wednesday Classified.

Call 708/613-3342

Notice is hereby given by the President and Board of Trustees of the dent and Board of Trustees of the Village of River Forest, Cook County, Illinois, that sealed bids will be accepted for: 2017 Pavement Project

Preservation

This project consists of the application of Asphalt Pavement Rejuvenating Materials to various streets throughout the Villages of River Forest, Elmwood Park, and Riverside.

The bidding documents are available for download starting Tuesday, March 28, 2017 at: http://vrf.us/government/bids-a-rfps Bids must be submitted by Friday, April 14, 2017 at 10:00 a.m. at: Public Works Department, 2nd Floor Village of River Forest 400 Park Avenue River Forest, IL 60305 The bid proposals will be publicly opened and read at that time.

Proposals will be considered not only on the basis of cost, but also on product specifications, past performance, experience and ability to perform the work.

No bid shall be withdrawn after the opening of the Proposals without the consent of the President and Board of Trustees of the Village of River Forest for a period of thirty (30) days after the scheduled time of the bid opening.

The Village of River Forest reserves the right in receiving these bids to waive technicalities and reject any or all bids.

Published in Wednesday Journal 3/29/2017

PUBLIC NOTICE BID NOTICE Crack Sealing The Village of Riverside will be accepting sealed bids for Crack Sealing. Bids will be accepted at the Riverside Department of Public Works, 3860 Columbus Blvd., Riverside, IL 60546 until April 11, 2017, at 2:30 p.m. at which time they will be opened and publicly read aloud.

The contractor shall pay not less than the prevailing rates of wages to all laborers, workmen, and mechanics performing work under this contract, and shall comply with the requirements of the Illinois Wages of Employees on Public Works Act (820 ILCS 130/1-12).

Specifications may be obtained at the Public Works Department, weekdays between 7:30 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. Questions may be directed to the Public Works Department at 708 442-3590. The Village of Riverside reserves the right to reject any or all bids, to waive technicalities, and to accept any bid which is deemed to be in the best interest of the Village of Riverside.

Published in Landmark 3/29/2017

PUBLIC NOTICES LEGAL NOTICE LAW OFFICE OF LINDA EPSTEIN Attorney for Petitioner 722 W. Diversey Parkway Ste. 101B Chicago, IL 60614 STATE OF ILLINOIS, COUNTY OF COOK, ssCircuit Court of Cook County, County Department Domestic Relations Division In re the Marriage of Lilia Diaz, Petitioner, and Pedro Marquez, Respondent.

No. 17 D 001856 The requisite affidavit for Publication having been filed, notice is hereby given to you, Luz Maria Diez, Respondent, that a Petition has been filed in the Circuit Court of Cook County, Illinois, by the Petitioner, for Dissolution of Marriage and for other relief: and that said suit is now pending.

Now, therefore, unless you, the said Respondent file your response to said Petition or otherwise make your appearance therein, in the Office of the Clerk of the Circuit Court of Cook County, Illinois, Room 802, Richard J. Daley Center, in the City of Chicago, Illlinois, on or before April 12, 2017, default may be entered against you at any time after that day, and a Judgment for Dissolution of Marriage Entered in accordance with the prayer of said Petition.

DOROTHY BROWN, Clerk.

Published in Wednesday Journal 3/15, 3/22, 3/29/2017.

LEGAL NOTICE STATE OF ILLINOIS) COUNTY OF COOK )ss Circuit Court of Cook County, County Department, Domestic Relations Division.

In re the marriage of Jesus Gabriel Avila,Petitioner and Milvian Chaparro, Respondent, Case No. 2017D-001932.

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

Now, therefore, unless you, the said Respondent, file your response to said Petition or otherwise make your appearance therein, in the Office of the Clerk of the Circuit Court of Cook County, Illinois, Room 802, Richard J. Daley Center, 50 West Washington Street, in the City of Chicago, Illinois, on or before April 24, 2017, default may be entered against you at any time after that day, and a judgment for Dissolution of Marriage entered in accordance with the prayer of said Petition.

DOROTHY A. BROWN, Clerk.

Published in Wednesday Journal 3/22, 3/29, 4/5/2017

PUBLIC NOTICES LEGAL NOTICE Chertkow and Chertkow (22019) Attorneys for Petitioner 1525 East 53rd Street Chicago, Illinois 60615 STATE OF ILLINOIS) COUNTY OF COOK )ss Circuit Court of Cook County, County Department, Domestic Relations Division. vIn re the marriage of Mario Gonzalez, Petitioner and Elisa Analco Andrade, Respondent, Case No. 2017D-002060.

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

Now, therefore, unless you, the said Respondent, file your response to said Petition or otherwise make your appearance therein, in the Office of the Clerk of the Circuit Court of Cook County, Illinois, Room 802, Richard J. Daley Center, 50 West Washington Street, in the City of Chicago, Illinois, on or before /bApril 24, 2017, /rdefault may be entered against you at any time after that day, and a judgment for Dissolution of Marriage entered in accordance with the prayer of said Petition.

DOROTHY A. BROWN, Clerk.

Published in Wednesday Journal 3/22, 3/29, 4/5/2017

LEGAL NOTICE Chertkow and Chertkow (22019) Attorneys for Petitioner 1525 East 53rd Street Chicago, Illinois 60615 STATE OF ILLINOIS) COUNTY OF COOK )ss Circuit Court of Cook County, County Department, Domestic Relations Division.

In re the marriage of Benjamin Padilla, Petitioner and Yolanda Padilla, Respondent, Case No. 2017D-002202.

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

Now, therefore, unless you, the said Respondent, file your response to said Petition or otherwise make your appearance therein, in the Office of the Clerk of the Circuit Court of Cook County, Illinois, Room 802, Richard J. Daley Center, 50 West Washington Street, in the City of Chicago, Illinois, on or before /bMay 1, 2017, /rdefault may be entered against you at any time after that day, and a judgment for Dissolution of Marriage entered in accordance with the prayer of said Petition.

DOROTHY A. BROWN, Clerk.

Published in Wednesday Journal 3/29, 4/5, 4/12/2017

PUBLIC NOTICES LEGAL NOTICE Chertkow and Chertkow (22019) Attorneys for Petitioner 1525 East 53rd Street Chicago, Illinois 60615 STATE OF ILLINOIS) COUNTY OF COOK )ss Circuit Court of Cook County, County Department, Domestic Relations Division.

In re the marriage of Olufunke O. Ogunyipe, Petitioner and Adebola Ogunsanya, Respondent, Case No. 2017D-002420.

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

Now, therefore, unless you, the said Respondent, file your response to said Petition or otherwise make your appearance therein, in the Office of the Clerk of the Circuit Court of Cook County, Illinois, Room 802, Richard J. Daley Center, 50 West Washington Street, in the City of Chicago, Illinois, on or before /bMay 1, 2017, /rdefault may be entered against you at any time after that day, and a judgment for Dissolution of Marriage entered in accordance with the prayer of said Petition.

DOROTHY A. BROWN, Clerk.

Published in Wednesday Journal 3/29, 4/5, 4/12/2017

PUBLIC NOTICE Notice is hereby given, pursuant to “An Act in relation to the use of an Assumed Business Name in the conduct or transaction of Business in the State,” as amended, that a certification was registered by the undersigned with the County Clerk of Cook County. Registration Number: D17149848 on March 2, 2017. Under the Assumed Business Name of WANDERLUSTUDIO with the business located at: 482 PERRIE DR, ELK GROVE VILLAGE, IL 60007. The true and real full name(s) and residence address of the owner(s)/partner(s) is: ANNA HALAMA 428 PERRIE DR ELK GROVE VILLAGE, IL 60007 Published in Wednesday Journal 3/15, 3/22, 3/29

PUBLIC NOTICE Notice is hereby given, pursuant to “An Act in relation to the use of an Assumed Business Name in the conduct or transaction of Business in the State,” as amended, that a certification was registered by the undersigned with the County Clerk of Cook County. Registration Number: D17149961 on March 9, 2017. Under the Assumed Business Name of NO LABELS THERAPY with the business located at: 1075 SHERWOOD DR., WHEELING, IL 60090. The true and real full name(s) and residence address of the owner(s)/ partner(s) is: MARGARET ZANGRILLI 1075 SHERWOOD DR. WHEELING, IL 60090 Published in Wednesday Journal 3/15, 3/22, 3/29/2017

PUBLIC NOTICES PUBLIC NOTICE Notice is hereby given, pursuant to “An Act in relation to the use of an Assumed Business Name in the conduct or transaction of Business in the State,” as amended, that a certification was registered by the undersigned with the County Clerk of Cook County. Registration Number: D17150044 on March 15, 2017. Under the Assumed Business Name of WHITE WOLF ACADEMY with the business located at: 159 MARION ST. SUITE 336, OAK PARK, IL 60301. The true and real full name(s) and residence address of the owner(s)/partner(s) is: CHAD KOCH 159 N MARION ST. SUITE 336 OAK PARK, IL 60301 Published in Wednesday Journal 3/29, 4/5, 4/12/2017

REAL ESTATE FOR SALE IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF COOK COUNTY, ILLINOIS COUNTY DEPARTMENT– CHANCERY DIVISION WILMINGTON TRUST, NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, NOT IN ITS INDIVIDUAL CAPACITY, BUT SOLELY AS TRUSTEE FOR MFRA TRUST 2015-1 Plaintiff, -v.LEONARD S. DE FRANCO A/K/A LEONARD S. DEFRANCO, BEATRICE DE FRANCO A/K/A BEATRICE DEFRANCO, RIGHT RESIDENTIAL II FUND 2–LLC, SUCCESSOR IN INTEREST TO COMMUNITY BANK WHEATON GLEN ELLYN, SMS FINANCIAL JDC, LP Defendants 10 CH 017620 1339 N. LATHROP AVENUE RIVER FOREST, IL 60305 NOTICE OF SALE PUBLIC NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale entered in the above cause on January 23, 2017, an agent for The Judicial Sales Corporation, will at 10:30 AM on April 25, 2017, at The Judicial Sales Corporation, One South Wacker Drive–24th Floor, CHICAGO, IL, 60606, sell at public auction to the highest bidder, as set forth below, the following described real estate: Commonly known as 1339 N. LATHROP AVENUE, RIVER FOREST, IL 60305 Property Index No. 15-01-212-003.

The real estate is improved with a single family residence.

Sale terms: 25% down of the highest bid by certified funds at the close of the sale payable to The Judicial Sales Corporation. No third party checks will be accepted. The balance, including the Judicial sale fee for 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

REAL ESTATE FOR SALE 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 14-10-14420.

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. 14-10-14420 Attorney ARDC No. 00468002 Attorney Code. 21762 Case Number: 10 CH 017620 TJSC#: 37-1152 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.

I716463

the Experts Before You Place Your Legal Ad! Publish Your Assumed Name Legal Notice in Starting A New Business? Call R A ! Call Mary Ellen for details: 708/613-3342 Journal/Review/Landmark/Austin CLASSIFIED L OWEST

ATE

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Public Notice: Your right to know In print • Online • Available to you 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, every day of the year OakPark.com | RiverForest.com | PublicNoticeIllinois.com REAL ESTATE FOR SALE

REAL ESTATE FOR SALE

REAL ESTATE FOR SALE

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF COOK COUNTY, ILLINOIS COUNTY DEPARTMENT–CHANCERY DIVISION WELLS FARGO BANK, N.A. Plaintiff, -v.JENNIFER KANWISCHER, THOMAS KANWISCHER, CHASE MORTGAGE SERVICES, INC. F/K/A CHASE HOME MORTGAGE CORPORATION Defendants 16 CH 12264 1126 SOUTH HUMPHREY AVENUE Oak Park, IL 60304 NOTICE OF SALE PUBLIC NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale entered in the above cause on February 1, 2017, an agent for The Judicial Sales Corporation, will at 10:30 AM on May 2, 2017, at The Judicial Sales Corporation, One South Wacker Drive–24th Floor, CHICAGO, IL, 60606, sell at public auction to the highest bidder, as set forth below, the following described real estate: Commonly known as 1126 SOUTH HUMPHREY AVENUE, Oak Park, IL 60304 Property Index No. 16-17323-012-0000. The real estate is improved with a single family residence. The judgment amount was $268,984.41. 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 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 twentyfour (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(g1). IF YOU ARE THE MORTGAGOR (HOMEOWNER), YOU HAVE THE RIGHT TO REMAIN IN POSSESSION FOR 30 DAYS AFTER ENTRY OF AN ORDER OF POSSESSION, IN ACCORDANCE

WITH SECTION 15-1701(C) OF THE ILLINOIS MORTGAGE FORECLOSURE LAW. You will need a photo identification issued by a government agency (driver’s license, passport, etc.) in order to gain entry into our building and the foreclosure sale room in Cook County and the same identification for sales held at other county venues where The Judicial Sales Corporation conducts foreclosure sales. For information, contact The sales clerk, SHAPIRO KREISMAN & ASSOCIATES, LLC, 2121 WAUKEGAN RD., SUITE 301, Bannockburn, IL 60015, (847) 2911717 For information call between the hours of 1pm–3pm. Please refer to file number 16-080649. 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. SHAPIRO KREISMAN & ASSOCIATES, LLC 2121 WAUKEGAN RD., SUITE 301 Bannockburn, IL 60015 (847) 291-1717 E-Mail: ILNotices@logs. com Attorney File No. 16-080649 Attorney Code. 42168 Case Number: 16 CH 12264 TJSC#: 371267 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.

I715322

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF COOK COUNTY, ILLINOIS COUNTY DEPARTMENT– CHANCERY DIVISION WELLS FARGO BANK, NA; Plaintiff, vs.

DAVID GILKEY; Defendants, 15 CH 8713 NOTICE OF SALE PUBLIC NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale entered in the above entitled cause Intercounty Judicial Sales Corporation will on Monday, May 1, 2017 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. 15-10-436-055-0000.

Commonly known as 826 South 11th Avenue, Maywood, IL 60153.

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. 15-012938 F2 INTERCOUNTY JUDICIAL SALES CORPORATION Selling Officer, (312) 444-1122

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF COOK COUNTY, ILLINOIS COUNTY DEPARTMENT– CHANCERY DIVISION DITECH FINANCIAL, LLC; Plaintiff, vs.

STEVEN SPEARS; TCF NATIONAL BANK, A NATIONAL BANKING ASSOCIATION; EDGEWOOD PLACE CONDOMINIUM ASSOCIATION; Defendants, 16 CH 12877 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 Friday, May 5, 2017 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. 15-11-211-018-1008.

Commonly known as 419 Edgewood Place aka 419 Edgewood Place, Unit 2, River Forest, IL 60305.

The mortgaged real estate is improved with a condominium residence. The purchaser of the unit other than a mortgagee shall pay the assessments and the legal fees required by subdivisions (g) (1) and (g)(4) of Section 9 of the Condominium Property Act Sale terms: 10% down by certified funds, balance, by certified funds, within 24 hours. No refunds. The property will NOT be open for inspection.

For information call Sales Department at Plaintiff’s Attorney, Manley Deas Kochalski, LLC, One East Wacker Drive, Chicago, Illinois 60601. (614) 220-5611. 16-019886 F2 INTERCOUNTY JUDICIAL SALES CORPORATION Selling Officer, (312) 444-1122 I718114

MORTGAGE DIRECTORY REAL ESTATE REAL ESTATE FOR SALE FOR SALE

REAL ESTATE FOR SALE

MORTGAGE RATE DIRECTORY LENDER COMMUNITY BANK OF OAK PARK - RIVER FOREST

(708) 660-7006 1001 Lake St., Oak Park IL 60301 www.cboprf.com

AMOUNT

RATE/YR

80% 80% 80% 80% 80% 80%

4.375% / 30 yr. fixed 4.250% / 20 yr. fixed 3.625% / 15 yr. fixed 3.750% / 5 yr. ARM 3.750% / 7 yr. ARM 4.000% / 10 yr. ARM

POINTS/ APP. FEE 0%/$550 0%/$550 0%/$550 0%/$550 0%/$550 0%/$550

A.P.R.

4.446% 4.347% 3.748% 4.060% 4.017% 4.070%

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Good Life Race is better than ever

Oak Park event has won Race of the Year award from CARA four of last five years

T

he Good Life Race has now won Race of the Year honors from the Chicago Area Runners Association (CARA) in four of the last five years. The latest award was announced at the CARA awards banquet in February, and it sets a pretty big high goal to hit once again in 2017. This year’s production by the Oak Park Runners Club, Race Number 36, will be on Sunday, April 23rd, so mark your calendars.

I bumped into Chicago Marathon Director, Carey Pinkowski, at that CARA banquet and he asked for some tips. He was kidding, but it’s still nice to be recognized.

As always, the event features separate 5K races for women and men, plus a Youth Mile, a 5K Fitness Walk, and a Junior Dash for young kids. Proceeds from this year’s race will benefit the Collaboration for Early Childhood and the Oak Park-River Forest Food Pantry. Last year the race donated $25,000 to its charitable partners.

Carried over from last year is the Community Team Challenge where employees of local businesses and organizations can comRunning Columnist pete for bragging rights while reinforcing their employers’ wellness plans. The obvious goal is to emphasize personal and corporate fitness.

Race Director, Keith Strom, says, “We strive each year to continuously improve the race experience for both our participants and partners. Within this spirit, we have looked to enhance both our green and community initiatives. We have been a green certified race for the last couple of years. But starting last year, we took it a step further, and working with community partners became a zero waste event.”

This focus on recycling and minimizing waste (paper, food containers, etc.) was one element in the Race of the Year award.

So, what goes into making one race better than another? There are some fine races out there, so picking one over another often comes down to splitting hairs. Initially, all the basic elements have to be done right – the course must be accurate, runner safety has to be assured (traffic protection, medical facilities, etc.), adequate water and toilet facilities must be available, and results should be provided promptly and accurately. Beyond that are amenities such as t-shirts, refreshments, entertainment or other goodies that people appreciate, which make a race stand out from the rest.

Starting in 1982 I’ve been involved in every one of these races, and I’ve seen how easy it is for something to go wrong. Race organizers can plan everything perfectly, but race day depends on many volunteers who show up that day for their assignments, so stuff can happen. Fortunately, the Oak Park Runners Club has been doing this long enough so there is a sizeable group of people who know what they’re doing, but we can never take things for granted.

One favorite example that sticks in my mind was at a race (not ours) in a neighboring community that ran a one-mile race for kids after the main 5K race. It was led by one of the municipal police cars, and the cops apparently got lost in their own town. Anxious parents were waiting at the finish line at the expected time, but no kids were in sight. It was a warm day, and finally the exhausted kids dragged in, having run well beyond one mile. At that point the fire department sent out its ambulance to pick up stragglers. Those kids turned out to be the envy of the others since they got an ambulance ride. Like I say, stuff happens.

So, another year, another race, and we intend to make it good as ever.

PAUL

OPPENHEIM

Paul Oppenheim is a member of the Oak Park Runners Club.

File photo

OPRF senior Irwin Loud is an experienced and dynamic runner who will contend for state titles in the 1600 and 3200 races.

OPRF track finishes second in conference Loud, Vietzen power Huskies to strong indoor showing in Silver Division

By MARTY FARMER Sports Editor

The West Suburban Conference Silver Division Boys Indoor Championships in track and field came down to rivals OPRF and Lyons Township. The Lions edged the Huskies 125-118 with Downers Grove North (81), York (70) and Hinsdale Central (60) rounding out the top five.

At the frosh/soph level, Hinsdale Central placed first (157.5) ahead of runner-up OPRF (103).

Hosted by Proviso West, the Huskies fared well in the varsity competition with several first-place finishes in both track and field events. Senior Irwin Loud won the 3200-meter title with a personal record time of 9:03.82, barely beating Lyons Township junior Danny Kilrea (9:03.97). Kilrea repeatedly turned away Loud’s attempts to take the lead until the last 20 meters when Loud finally broke ahead for good.

In the 1600, Loud finished second (4:22.21) with another personal record, trailing only highly touted LTHS senior Vince Zona (4:21.90). Kilrea was third at 4:22.27 and Downers Grove North’s Alec Danner 4:23.24 was fourth in one of the tightest races of the meet.

Looking ahead to the outdoor season, Loud is a contender to win state titles in the 3200 and 1600 later this spring. In 2016, he placed third in the 3200 with a time of 9:14.71 and took fourth in the 1600 with a time of 4:17.88. at state

In the individual track events at the conference meet, Huskies’ winners included senior Brandon Gage in the 400 (52.02) and senior Keyon Blankenbaker in long jump (22 feet, 3 inches). A versatile athlete, Blankenbaker has signed with the University of Wyoming, where he will play college football with OPRF teammates Jahmari Moore and Jared Scott.

OPRF also won the title in the 3200 relay as the quartet of Chance Bayles, Robert George, Matt Vietzen and Owen Savoy recorded a time of 8:03.86 to edge LTHS (8:04.53) and Downers Grove North (8:05.89) in a thriller. With five teams in contention and 800 meters left, Vietzen triggered the Huskies’ comeback win with strong running down the stretch.

Other notable OPRF indoor conference finishes included Noah Coplan taking second in shot put (5110.50), Rino Watson third in the 55-meter dash (6.73), Eric Mulshine fourth (2:02.20) in the 800 and Malcolm Crawford fourth in triple jump (41-500).

OPRF sophomore hurdler JT Louder performed well with a runner-up showing in the 55 high hurdles (7.96) and fourth (7.70) in the 55 low hurdles.

Joe Keys of Downers Grove North dominated hurdles by sweeping the two events. Keys ran a time of 7.83 to defeat Louder in the high hurdles and a time of 7.33 to best York’s Obi Nnam (7.58) in the low hurdles.

In other field events, the Huskies’ Cory Poe placed second in high jump (6 feet, 3 inches) and Nick Shaw took second in pole vault (13-1).

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toward focusing on the conference championship tournament as a tune up for the IHSA sectional tournament and the IHSA state tournament.”

Sounds like a man with a plan — a plan he assuredly learned from the aforementioned Fenwick coaching legend and his dad, Dave Perry.

Keep in mind, too, what’s made Fenwick boys water polo so special goes well beyond state title hardware encased in glass.

The program churns out tremendous student-athletes.

“Our team has also produced many athletes who have gone on to swim and play water polo at the Division I, II, III, NAIA, and club level,” Perry said. “They continue their education in colleges and universities all around the United States. This is one of the things that makes me really proud.”

Growing Pains A primary reason the Friars struggled in 2016 was simply inexperience. That narrative has changed.

“We graduated only six players from last year’s team,” noted Perry. “We have a lot of guys who worked very hard and gained a lot of experience last year. Many of the guys were first-year varsity players.

At times, that’s how our team played.

“This year, there is a lot more confidence from the boys who have come to realize that they can play with pretty much every team they face.”

Fenwick certainly returns a plethora of talented players this spring, led by seniors Kyle Poland, Matt Hoban, Luis Murphy KYLE PERRY and Noah Groll. Add sophomores Fenwick coach Ramses Flores and Payton Comstock and that accounts for six players who scored over half of the Friars’ goals last season.

And let’s face it, any team with a key player named Ramses has to be dangerous come playoff time.

Reinforcements are at the ready as well, with seniors Dan Malagoli, Fines Owens and Conor Hendzel, plus juniors Ben Lulich and Ivan Soto and sophomore Dan Lynch eager to contribute.

In goal, the team is afforded the luxury of two solid shot blockers in senior David Francisco and junior Alejandro Perez.

“We’re off to a great start but there are lots more games to be played,” Perry said. “We want to be a team that comes together in times of adversity, relies on each other, and is willing to do whatever is needed for the betterment of the team.

“At the end of the day, if we can come together selflessly as a team, we’re going to have a great season.”

Due to a real, living organism called “The Farmer Jinx,” I’ll stop short of predicting a Fenwick boys water polo state championship this season. I’m sure it will happen eventually though; that’s something even Father Time can’t stop.

“We’re off to a great start but there are lots more games to be played.”

File photo

Fenwick sophomore Payton Comstock is another key player focused on bringing back the Friars to success.

DYNASTY from page 60 rolling out 17- and 18-year-olds every spring. Keep in mind, the Friars have more championships than Tom Brady, Derek Jeter and Michael Jordan combined.

So what, if anything, is wrong with the Friars? While I’m no water polo expert — like iconic Fenwick coach Dave Perry (passed away in 2011) — I contend the Friars are fine.

Just a little patience and perspective are required, which, thankfully, Friar Water Polo Nation has allotted the boys.

Like any transcendent team, Fenwick indirectly became a victim of its own success. Over the past five seasons, Lyons Township has won two state titles while Loyola Academy and Naperville Central own one apiece. When Fenwick was reeling off titles left and right, I always won-

dered when another team was going to finally step up and offer resistance.

The field finally caught up.

Rafael Nadal and Novak Djokovic did it to Roger Federer and a cadre of golfers no longer fear Tiger Woods. Like Federer’s recent resurgence, however, it seems only a matter of time before the Friars return to excellence.

So far, so good this season. Fenwick is 5-2 with its only losses to state contenders like New Trier (10-9 loss) and Naperville Central (5-3 loss). The Friars won their first five games this season (including wins over solid Catholic League teams like Mount Carmel, Loyola and Brother Rice), outscoring their opponents 93-16.

“This year, we want to be back at the state championship tournament,” Perry said. “Since 1999, we’ve only missed the state championship tournament three times (2003, 2012, 2016). We have not been as dominant over the last few years as we’d like to be within our conference. We are working

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SPORTS Friars’ Commitment to Excellence

OPRF boys track second in conference 58

Good life better than ever 58

Fenwick boys water polo hasn’t won state since 2013; no reason to panic

By MARTY FARMER

S

File photo

Fenwick senior Noah Groll is one of the team’s top returning players. Groll will provide play making and leadership for the Friars this season.

Let us know we’ll hold your paper!

Sports Editor

ince 1965, the Fenwick High School boys water polo program has won 20 state championships and 34 conference titles.

No other high school sports team in town is remotely close to that level of success — except for one. The girls water polo program at Fenwick is next in line with nine state titles and 11 conference crowns since 2003.

While the girls team rolls into this season as reigning state champions (courtesy of a riveting 13-12 win over Naperville Central in the 2016 state finals), the boys squad is unproven by comparison.

Last season, the boys finished 18-14-1 overall with a third-place showing in the Metro Catholic Aquatic Conference. The Friars missed their invitation to the state tournament by losing 10-9 to York in a sectional championship game.

“We were leading until about two minutes left in the fourth quarter,” Fenwick coach Kyle Perry said. “We couldn’t capitalize on our final few possessions.”

Couldn’t capitalize on our final few possessions, huh? That kind of talk never existed when the Friars were racking up 11 state titles in 12 years during the halcyon era of 1999-2011.

That doesn’t fly, considering Fenwick is See DYNASTY on page 59

Road Trip on the Horizon?

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