Wednesday Journal 081022 by Wednesday Journal

W E D N E S D A Y

August 10, 2022 Vol. 43, No. 2 ONE DOLLAR @wednesdayjournalinc

@wednesdayjournal

JOURNAL @oakpark

of Oak Park and River Forest

Education Guide Page 17

Unvaccinated health board member resigns, sort of Wynne Lacey no longer participating By STACEY SHERIDAN Staff Reporter

Wynne Lacey’s position on the Oak Park Board of Health became the source of controversy last winter due to her vaccination beliefs. Her decision not to be vaccinated against COVID-19, although eligible, and her comparisons of mitigation measures to punishments garnered much criticism, with many calling on her to leave the volunteer commission. Lacey, it appears, has since done that. In an email sent April 23 to the board of health staff liaison, Lacey said she would not be participating in the commission’s future meetings. Wednesday Journal obtained the email through the Freedom of Information Act. “I will no longer be attending Board of Health meetings as a volunteer,” Lacey wrote. “I have spoken with President [Vicki] Scaman to let her know. Good luck to you!

SAIL ON

Oak Park para sailor Jasmin Washington is ready to race STORY BY STACEY SHERIDAN, PAGE 11 ALEX ROGALS/Staff Photographer

See UNVACCINATED on page 13

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How area suburbs can salvage the federal ‘climate suicide pact’

ast week, people everywhere rejoiced at the imminent passage of the $369 billion federal climate bill - the Inflation Reduction Act - which experts say is the largest single piece of climate legislation in U.S. history. The bill is not insignificant. That’s a lot of money. And it could mean serious investments for the producers and serious cost savings for the consumers of electric vehicles (EVs), solar panels, heat pumps and other renewable technologies that are necessary to replace fossil fuels. And as Peter Kalmus, a NASA climate scientist, has observed, the bill pays for this stuff by taxing corporations and the wealthy (critically, the bill will allocate more money to the IRS to enforce these tax measures). The bill also rightly enacts a fee on methane leaks over federal limits, although Kalmus notes that both the limits and the means of enforcement are unclear. But in a way, the bill is also vastly inadequate and potentially harmful, as Branko Marcetic explains in a recent Jacobin article. “The most alarming problem is the bill’s mandating what is in effect a decade-long carbon bomb through oil and gas leases,” he writes. “If passed, any new wind or solar projects on public lands or waters would have to first offer, respectively, at least 2 million acres and 60 million acres of each for oil and gas leases — and that’s every year, for an entire decade.” Brett Hartl, the governmental affairs director at the Center for Biological Diversity, told Marcetic that the bill is “a climate suicide pact,” particularly in light of a recent Associated Press investigation that revealed “that hundreds of lease sites in the Permian Basin alone are every hour leaking between hundreds and thousands of kilograms worth of methane, a greenhouse gas dozens of times more planet-boiling than carbon dioxide.” Last year, Fatih Birol, the executive director of the International Energy Agency (IEA), arguably the world’s foremost authority on the global energy sector, was unequivocal in her assessment of the climate situation. “If governments are serious about the

climate crisis, there can be no new investments in oil, gas and coal, from now – from this year,” she said. Not only will this bill potentially expand drilling and extracting among private oil and gas corporations, it doesn’t do much of anything to address the carbon emissions in the federal government’s own house. Kalmus helpfully contrasts the $369 billion in the Inflation Reduction Act, spent over 10 years and through a litany of tax credits, with the annual U.S. military budget, which is about $800 billion a year (and that’s in cash, not credits). The $36.9 billion a year coming from this climate bill is about 5 percent of the annual spending by the U.S. military, which is arguably the largest institutional emitter of carbon on the planet. There is a lot in this bill that preserves the status quo driving us headlong into environmental and geopolitical catastrophe. It offers piecemeal reforms when we need the federal government to exercise its might on the public’s behalf and punish fossil fuel companies both for lying about global warming for decades and for continuing to emit despite knowing the dangers. More than vague fines, we need serious regulations designed to stop carbon emissions now. More than tax credits that are largely invisible to the average person, we need direct investment (and possibly public production) of renewable energy sources like wind and solar on a scale and with an intensity similar to the country’s mobilization during WWII. This is a tepid bill relative to our currently dire straits and, despite the PR packaged praise in the mainstream press, it does not change the underlying factors that are causing the current climate malaise. We are still an overly militarized, corporate-run, heavily privatized, heavily car-dependent, sprawling, aging, growth-obsessed and increasingly impoverished, but imperious country that refuses to live within her ecological and social limits. With that said, we can’t just gloss over the myriad ways that the climate bill can also lead to very real, material improvements in actual people’s lives. The tax credits for products like heat pump water heaters, solar panels and home

MICHAEL ROMAIN

energy audits could save the average homeowner thousands of dollars. The bill also expands the number of new EV sales that can benefit from the $7,500 tax incentive and extends the number of years the incentive is on the books, from a few to 10. Currently, roughly 5 percent of the vehicles sold in the United States are EVs, according to Cox Automotive. A collective push among municipalities to electrify their fleets could drive that number up and relatively quickly. The hard part is that, in order for EVs to qualify for the tax credits, “their batteries will need to contain minerals extracted from or processed in a country the US has a free trade agreement with, and a portion of components to be manufactured or assembled in North America,” Bloomberg reports. And that’s far from a given, considering that many North American factories “are still being planned and constructed.” Locally, municipalities and homeowners have time to prepare for the windfall if and when the production of EVs ramps up. More importantly, though, the proposed climate bill comes as suburbs in our area are positioning themselves to transition from fossil fuels to renewables, and from auto-centric to human-oriented. For instance, Oak Park could leverage the federal tax credits, once they become available, to expand its existing network of EV charging stations and to realize its goal of decarbonizing vehicles and buildings in the village outlined in its comprehensive Climate Ready Oak Park plan. That plan could very well be a national model for how suburbs can go about positioning themselves for securing a portion of the Inflation Reduction Act’s $369 billion. In its plan, Oak Park has inventoried its greenhouse gas emissions, tabulated its climate hazards and created vulnerability indices that center racial and income equity. The Oak Park plan also provides a concrete, prioritized timeline for delivering on real climate-related goals. Importantly, unlike the federal climate bill, the village’s plan prioritizes public transit and non-automotive forms of transportation like biking and walking. In other words, it considers how we can change our fossil fuel culture and the built environment underlying it. This climate bill also comes at what I think is a critical moment of institutional

collaboration on the Greater West Side, particularly around issues of racial and economic equity. In June, mayors from roughly a dozen west suburbs signed onto the Cross-Community Climate Collaborative (C4), which would allow officials in area suburbs to regularly convene and share best practices and resources for how to transition their communities from fossil fuel culture. This Collaborative will be particularly critical for area municipalities that don’t necessarily have the resources and personnel to create a plan like Oak Park’s. For instance, the federal climate plan could allocate about $3 billion in grants for communities that have been “cleaved apart by highways and other infrastructure,” according to Route Fifty, a government news publication. “The new money could be used for a variety of purposes, including covering a highway, turning a highway into a boulevard, adding trails and bike lanes, installing sound barriers, providing better connections to transit, using ‘green infrastructure’ to handle storm runoff, reducing urban heat island hot spots, building safety features and curbing air pollution,” Route Fifty reports. About $1.1 billion of that grant money would be directed to “economically disadvantaged communities,” but in order to even qualify for the funding, those communities “must have ‘an anti-displacement policy, a community land trust or a community advisory board in effect,’ as well as a plan to employ local residents in making the improvements.” That’s quite a lot to ask of relatively small suburbs like Bellwood or Maywood that are juggling a million other things. C4 and even institutions like the Oak Park-River Forest Community Foundation can provide critical assistance to these smaller, low-income municipalities. For instance, the Community Foundation recently released an equity report that has vital information west suburbs can use when applying for federal grant funding whenever it comes online. Overall, we need to shout from the potentially solar-paneled rooftops about the existential harm that this bill allows by letting fossil fuel polluters off the hook while praising the bill’s good provisions and preparing ourselves to take advantage of them.

CONTACT: michael@oakpark.com

Wednesday Journal, August 10, 2022

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BIG WEEK August 10-17

Shakespeare in Austin Gardens: ‘The Winter’s Tale’ Thursdays-Sundays through Aug. 20 8 p.m. ThursdaySaturday 7 p.m. Sunday Festival Theatre (oakparkfestival.com)

Bluegrass & Bloodies: The Mountainaires Sunday, Aug. 14, 1 p.m., Outta Space Every second Sunday, this venue hosts a mountain music jamboree featuring the Mountainaires, a local bluegrass trio who just released their new album, Shame On Me. Social distancing protocol in full effect. $10, 6840 32nd St. Berwyn.

Live & Lucky: Live Band Burlesque

Author Visit: Alec Nevala-Lee Saturday, Aug. 13, 11 a.m. - 12:30 p.m., Oak Park Public Library Alec Nevala-Lee will be stopping by the library to discuss his latest book, Inventor of the Future, a biography of Buckminster Fuller. Register now at //oppl.org/calendar. 834 Lake St., Oak Park.

Saturday, Aug. 13, 9 p.m., Outta Space Classic bump-and-grind striptease, performed by Ruby Spencer and other dancers. Music by Mr. Lucky & His Orchestra Of Tomorrow. Tipping is highly encouraged. $15, 6840 32nd St., Berwyn.

Baby/Toddler Nature Exploration Monday, Aug. 15, 11 a.m. - 2 p.m., Oak Park Public Library Babies, toddlers and their siblings will get a head start on the great outdoors with a special trip through Scoville Park. Stories and science activities will be part of the fun. Everyone will meet outside of the library, on the plaza. Weather permitting. Register your family for each class you plan to attend at //oppl.org/calendar. 834 Lake St., Oak Park.

The Jett Girls Friday, Aug. 12, 8:30 p.m., FitzGerald’s This spinoff of Chicago’s garagerocking Knee-His bring their act to Berwyn and are ready to shake the suburbs to its foundation. Coming along for the ride: Los Black Dogs and Ricky Liontones. $10 in advance, $15 day of show, 6615 Roosevelt Road, Berwyn.

Kuinka/Nathan Graham Thursday Aug. 11, 8:30 p.m., FitzGerald’s Kuinka are a Seattle quintet that sings dreamy, lilting pop songs with a folkish tint. Opening the show will be Nathan Graham, a Chicagobased country-rock singer who recently did a tour with Ben Harper. $15 in advance, $20 day of show. 6615 Roosevelt Road, Berwyn.

Silent Movies On The Porch: ‘The Kid’

Thursday, Aug. 11, 7 p.m., Pleasant Home All month long, Pleasant Home will be presenting silent movies, featuring live music performed on the spot by Jay Warren of the Silent Film Society of Chicago. Seating will be provided on the porch, or you can bring your own blanket or chairs for the lawn. This week: The Kid, a 1921 flick starring Charlie Chaplin and Jackie Coogan. There will also be a 10-minute cartoon from 1923, “Felix In Hollywood.” Purchase tickets online from Pleasant Home’s website for seating. $10 per adult, $20 per family. 217 Home Ave., Oak Park.

Listing your event in the calendar Wednesday Journal welcomes notices about events that Oak Park and River Forest community groups and businesses are planning. We’ll work to get the word out if you let us know what’s happening by noon

Wednesday a week before your news needs to be in the newspaper. ■ Send details to Wednesday Journal, 141 S. Oak Park Ave., Oak Park, 60302 ■ Email calendar@wjinc.com

Wednesday Journal, August 10, 2022

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Huskie Booster Club puts out call for new members OPRF group to host Aug. 17 Kickoff for parents, alumni and faculty

By F. AMANDA TUGADE Staff Reporter

Christi Regan knows what it’s like to be new to Oak Park. It wasn’t that long ago when she and her family moved in, and Regan, the designated “volunteer parent,” was searching for ways to get involved and get to know more people, especially through her daughters’ new school, Oak Park and River Forest High School. “We didn’t know a soul, not one person,” Regan recalled, adding she mostly relied on the high school’s emails and website for information on events, resources and other news. She came across an email about a meeting of the Huskie Booster Club, a volunteer parent organization that raises funds to support the academic programs and activities at OPRF. Regan, who now chairs the club’s membership committee, said her first brush with the

The club’s annual membership fee of club was a turning point in opening the door to OPRF and meeting other fami- $25 comes with discounted passes to athlies. Now she wants to encourage people letic and performing arts events. More to sign up and become a information on memberclub member. ship options and the HusThe Huskie Booster Club kie Booster Club Kickoff is hosting an event from can be found online at 6 to 9 p.m. on Aug. 17 at www.huskieboosterclub. Cheney Mansion, 220 N. org. Euclid Ave. in Oak Park. The booster club is Regan described the event about caring, Regan said. as an “open house-style The nonprofit, which has kickoff ” for adults only, inserved OPRF for 50 years, cluding parents and guarddraws parents and commuians of OPRF students, nity members who want to alumni, faculty and staff. make sure students have CHRISTI REGAN The evening offers compliwhat they need to succeed. Huskie Booster Club mentary food, drink and Last year, the club donatentertainment. ed $40,000 to various OPRF “Buy your membership. programs, she said. That Buy new spirit gear. Have a snack. Have included new sewing machines for the a cool drink. Talk to your parent friends Family and Consumer Sciences Departthat you haven’t seen all summer,” Regan ment, batches of new rice cookers for said. students in Japanese Club, new equip-

“Our community is vast, and so something like the booster club is a great way to bring in people to network and mingle.”

ment for the girls soccer team and new microphones for the Theater Department. “That was coming right off of COVID year,” she said. “We were pretty excited to be able to do that, to sort of get everybody going again.” With the new school year soon to begin, Regan took a moment to reflect on what the club means to her and what those who join can expect. The booster club is committed to celebrating the “4A’s,” she noted, student academics, activities, arts and athletics. Aside from that, its role is to tie the community together. “It’s been a great parent networking opportunity,” Regan said. “Many of us have not only formed friendships, but there’s been career opportunities — just so much. I even sub at the school now because I love being there. “Our community is vast, and so something like the booster club is a great way to bring in people to network and mingle.”

SHRED IT AND FORGET IT!

Saturday, September 10, 2022 from 8:00 am to 12:00 noon

Forest Park Bank, the locally owned and managed community bank, is pleased to continue the tradition of sponsoring the Annual FREE Sensitive Document Shredding Event in the Municipal Parking Lot located south of the Drive-Up Facility. The Bank has, again, engaged a professional shredding service to shred your sensitive documents with an industrial shredder. Forest Park Bank and Forest Park Police Department personnel will be on site to discuss identity security issues, including ways to protect your identity and what to do if you become a victim of identity theft or financial scams. You may bring up to two 12” X 12” X 18” boxes of documents to be shred at no charge. Three-ring notebooks and binders with large metal rings cannot be shredded. Staples are allowed. If you have questions about this event, please contact the bank at 708.222.2800.

7 3 4 8 W E S T M A D I S O N S T R E E T, F O R E S T PA R K , I L 6 0 13 0 F O R E S T PA R K B A N K . C O M

708.222.2800

Wednesday Journal, August 10, 2022

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Concordia racks up five awards CUC named 2022-23 Colleges of Distinction, also recognized for education and business programs By F. AMANDA TUGADE Staff Reporter

For a little more than a decade, Concordia University Chicago has been recognized by the Colleges of Distinction, which ranks colleges and universities in the nation on their commitment preparing students for their future and keeping them engaged – and this year is no exception. Since 2010, the River Forest institution has made it on the distinction list and this year nabbed five titles: 202223 Colleges of Distinction; 2022-23 Christian College of Distinction; 2022-23 Illinois College of Distinction; 202223 College of Distinction for Business and 2022-23 College of Distinction for Education, according to a press release issued by the university. This is also the fifth consecutive year that CUC’s business and education programs were honored with distinction awards. Concordia spokesperson Eric Matanyi said the univer-

sity is excited to be listed once again and receive a separate honor for the business and education programs. The 150-year-plus university was founded as a Lutheran teacher preparation college, and to be continually recognized for its oldest program makes the award even more special, he said. “We can tell parents and students: ‘We’re great. You should come here,’” Matanyi said. “But when somebody else says it, I think that’s what really helps a lot of students’ decisions to come to a school like Concordia or any other schools that might be [the] right [fit].” According to the Colleges of Distinction’s site, colleges and universities are named based on four categories: student engagement, teaching, community and outcomes. That means, it takes a closer look at whether academic programs lend to students’ careers or vocation, offers activities and campus life beyond the classroom, relationships between faculty and students, and opportunities post-graduation. “Those are not only things that we’re proud of here on Concordia’s campus, but I think things that are important to students and to parents when they’re choosing a university,” he said. In Illinois, a total of 18 colleges and universities were selected as 2022-23 Colleges of Distinction along with

F. AMANDA TUGADE/Staff Reporter

hundreds more around the country. Aside from CUC, Elmhurst College, DePaul University, University of Illinois at Chicago and Illinois State University are just a few among the many. For a complete list and more information, visit collegesofdistinction.com.

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Dominican University welcomes largest freshman class – ever Class of 2026 is diverse, high achieving

By F. AMANDA TUGADE Staff Reporter

Dominican University will be welcoming its largest freshman class ever this fall, with more than 600 students. While the enrollment number will be finalized and revealed in a census report by September, university officials say 636 students have put down their college enrollment deposits to hold their spot. University officials also say the Class of 2026 remains diverse, with at least 60% of students identifying as Latinx, and has a high academic profile, averaging a 3.8 GPA. Genearo Balcazar, vice president of enrollment management at DU, said the freshman class is so big the university might have encountered another first. Earlier this summer, officials informed incoming students they needed to put down their enrollment deposits by mid-July to keep classes small and offer a 15-to-1 student-toteacher ratio, said Balcazar. “We intentionally keep our classes small because it’s the way that we are able to help students be successful,” Balcazar said, adding as the freshmen class grew, the university moved to cap the classes to accommodate students. Throughout its history, the number of

freshmen attending the university in River Forest had settled at just below 500. Before the Class of 2026, DU’s largest freshman class was in 2016, which had 495 students, according to university data. “We’re really excited,” said Balcazar about introducing the Class of 2026 to the rest of the student body. Balcazar said this year’s incoming freshmen reflects the larger student population, where more than half are Latinx, mostly women and first-generation college students. The university typically pulls students from Chicago and the surrounding suburbs, many eligible for Pell Grants, federal financial aid for low-income students – and this new batch continues to adhere to those trends, he said. So, how did this happen? Balcazar said he wished there was one thing he could point to and “explain it away” but believed the uptick in incoming freshmen students is the result of efforts years in the making, including initiatives to build up career-focused academic programs and wraparound support services for students. Things fell into place – the “processes, messaging, timing,” he said. On top of that, Balcazar told Wednesday Journal the jump in undergraduate enrollment was likely impacted by schools fully reopening last year.

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“It’s so important for students that are first-generation – which we serve so well – to get those visual cues and reminders from teachers and high school college counselors to fill out an application for FAFSA [Free Application for Federal Student Aid],” he said. “I think that those reminders that hadn’t been there recently kind of [led to a] surge in applications and subsequently the [college enrollment] deposits.” Balcazar also told the Journal he noticed students who took a gap year or deferred their college enrollment during the pandemic are making their way back to school but are choosing ones closer to home. “I think because of our geography, because of our strong reputation in the region and the quality of our academic programs, we have fared pretty well during

these times,” he said. With the start of the fall semester around the corner, Balcazar said he can already feel the energy buzzing on campus. In the last few weeks, the university welcomed incoming freshmen and transfer students for SOAR [Student orientation, Advising and Registration]. Aside from that, the university will also be unveiling a new welcome center in Lewis Hall and renovated hallways, one of which will bear a new heritage mural while others will include images of students. “All of those things combined create this energy and good vibes, and I think people are feeling that,” he said. “I got to tell you: It’s a lot of work, but this is where all of that work kind of pays off. You start to see the smiling faces of the students.”

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10-day sales tax break on clothing, school supplies Tax on eligible items decreases to 1.25% from 6.25% through Aug. 14 By JERRY NOWICKI Capitol News Illinois

Through Aug. 14, the state of Illinois has reduced its sales tax rate from 6.25 percent to 1.25 percent for certain clothing items costing less than $125 and school supplies. The “tax holiday” was included in Gov. J.B. Pritzker’s “family relief plan,” one prong of several bills making up the Fiscal Year 2023 operating budget. The tax breaks passed with nearly unanimous support in the General Assembly and provided an estimated $1.8 billion in tax relief for Illinoisans. “These past two-and-a-half years, for everyone, of managing through the pandemic has been hard,” Pritzker said at a news conference at Roosevelt Elementary School in Broadview on Aug. 4. “And the last nine months of inflation on top of that has strained the budgets of parents and teachers alike. Prices have risen for everything from gas to groceries to school supplies, and everyone is taking a hit. It’s at moments like these that we need thoughtful and creative solutions that provide financial relief for Illinois families.” The state estimated the sales tax reduction would amount to $50 million in savings for taxpayers.

Included clothing items The 10-day tax reduction includes clothing items costing less than $125 individually. Clothing items, as defined by the law, include the standard items such as shorts, pants, skirts, shirts and underwear. The tax reduction will also apply to aprons, hats, caps and earmuffs, coats and jackets, belts and suspenders, rubber pants, lab coats, hosiery, scarves, bathing suits, school uniforms and neckties. It also applies to footwear – shoes, shoelaces, slippers, insoles, boots, socks and sandals.

SHANEL ROMAIN/Contributor

Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker announces the state’s 10-days sales tax “holiday” for clothing and school supply purchases at a press conference at Roosevelt Elementary School in Broadview on Aug. 4.

Excluded items But it does not apply to ballet, tap or athletic shoes, roller or ice skates, ski boots, waders or fins. Shoppers also should not expect the reduced sales tax rate on accessory items such as briefcases, hair bows, handbags, jewelry, sunglasses or wigs. The reduction also does not apply to sports gloves, goggles, hand and elbow guards, life preservers, wetsuits, shoulder pads, shin guards or mouth guards. Also excluded are protective equipment items such as breathing masks, hearing protectors, face shields, hard hats and helmets, respirators, protective gloves, safety goggles or tool belts.

Included school supplies Binders, book bags, calculators, cellophane tape, blackboard chalk, notebooks, erasers, folders, index cards, legal pads, lunch boxes, pencils and sharpeners, supply boxes, protractors, rulers, compasses and scissors are all eligible for the reduced tax rate. So are glue, highlighters, markers, crayons and colored pencils.

Excluded items Shoppers should not expect other art supplies to be eligible for the reduced rate, however. Clay and glaze, paints and paint brushes, sketch pads and drawing pads will all be taxed at the regular 6.25 percent rate. Textbooks, reference books, maps and globes are all exclud-

ed from the “holiday” as well. Electronics and computers will also be taxed at the regular rate. That includes computers and related supplies such as flash drives, memory cards, data storage, computer cases, cables, printers and ink. Shoppers also should not expect any breaks while buying cameras, cellphones or handheld electronics. The task of adjusting the tax rate for individual items will fall on retailers, who collect sales tax and remit it to the state. Guidance from the Illinois Department of Revenue on qualifying items can be found here.

Other tax relief Other tax relief measures approved in the budget include a property tax rebate up to 5 percent of the homeowner’s tax bill up to $300, and a one-time income tax rebate of $50 per individual and $100 per dependent, up to a limit of three children per family. Those would be available to individuals with incomes up to $200,000 and joint filers with incomes up to $400,000. The package also suspends for one year the 1 percent tax on groceries and puts a six-month pause on the automatic inflationary increase in the state’s motor fuel tax, which was estimated to be 2.2 cents per gallon. The plan also permanently expands the state earned income tax credit from 18 to 20 percent of the federal credit while also expanding the number of households that can claim the credit. The measure also set an income tax credit for teachers buying classroom supplies at $250 for the current year and $500 beginning Jan. 1, 2023.

Wednesday Journal, August 10, 2022

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Local nonprofit hosts diaper drive during August Collaboration for Early Childhood seeks size 1 and 2 baby diapers, white onesies

By F. AMANDA TUGADE Staff Reporter

The Collaboration for Early Childhood is hosting a diaper drive throughout August and is looking to the community for help. The Collaboration, an Oak Park-based nonprofit that works to connect families with children under 5 with resources, is collecting size 1 and 2 baby diapers and white onesies for 18-month-old toddlers now until Aug. 21. The items will be placed inside baby bundles, free bags given away to new and expecting parents packed with bibs, books, blocks, a bath thermometer and flyers to services, said Wendy Giardina, the nonprofit’s community engagement coordinator. Donations can be dropped at Whirlwind Coffee, 513 Madison St. in Oak Park, and the Oak Park Bank, 151 N. Oak Park Ave. Donations can also be dropped off at Whirlwind Coffee’s Family Fun in the Side Yard event on Aug. 21, which runs from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. The Collaboration is accepting monetary do-

nations, which can be made by visiting the nonprofit’s site at collab4kids.org and clicking the “Donate” tab at the top of the homepage. The Collaboration launched the baby bundles project early last year and used a $10,000 grant from the Oak Park-River Forest Community Foundation to fund the effort, Giardina said. The money allowed the Collaboration to do the project for an entire year, purchase the bundles’ items and give away 200 bags to families in Oak Park and the nearby suburbs. The foundation grant funded the project until this past June, and now the Collaboration is looking for ways to continue with the donation drive as part of another initiative. “The goal was always to figure out how to make them self-sustaining within our budget,” said Giardina, adding the organization aims to make the baby bundles a “cornerstone” project and hand out bags regularly to area families. Last year’s grant funding allowed Collaboration staff to give away

batches of baby bundles four different times, she said. Giardina told Wednesday Journal the project is two-fold: Baby bundles are meant to raise awareness of the Collaboration and the aid they offer for families with young children, and the donation drive comes at a time when families nationwide continue to see rising costs for basic necessities, including diapers. According to the National Diaper Bank Network, one in three families struggle to provide clean diapers for their baby. Newborns use between eight and 12 diapers a day which can add up to about $80 a month, the network and Parents magazine reported. “Diapers, like any other sort of personal hygiene product, is one of those things that kind of falls through the cracks,” Giardina said. “It’s not necessarily provided [at] places that people generally would go to get resources, and it’s something that they need every single day.” “Sometimes, people try to go too long in between diapers if they don’t have enough,” she

said. “Sometimes, they try to reuse, which as we know, is not good for the children. So, we just really want to be able to provide these kind of basic necessities along with the literacy aspect [in the baby bundles].” With the diaper drive ongoing, Giardina told the Journal she wants people in Oak Park and the surrounding communities to know about the Collaboration – that the nonprofit is there for them. “No one should have to discover the Collaboration by accident,” she said. “At the very least, what I would love is if their nextdoor neighbor moves in and has a child [age] 0 to 5 that you would go, ‘Hey, we have a thing called the Collaboration for Early Childhood in Oak Park. You should go check it out. They have things for everybody, and they can connect you to great resources.’” Other than that, Giardina turned to the Collaboration’s mission to spotlight the need to support babies and toddlers. “The earlier you invest, the more chance you have to make a difference,” she said.

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Wednesday Journal, August 10, 2022

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Oak Park Eats positively encourages readers to think about the food and beverages they consume and seek our unique and memorable beer drinking experience while celebrating Kinslagher’s local partnerships with Carnivore, Opportunity Knocks, Daly Bagels, and Darr-B-Q. - Keith Huizinga, Kinslagher

Sip more at Kinslahger.com/ Keith Huizinga, Kinslagher

Keep up with Melissa Elsmo and what she’s cooking up at:

Oak Park Eats on OakPark.com

Wednesday Journal, August 10, 2022

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Sailor with visual impairment snags second place Oak Park woman places in U.S. Para-Sailing Championships event

By STACEY SHERIDAN Staff Reporter

Boating around Lake Michigan is a summer must for many in the Chicago area, but for Oak Park resident Jasmin Washington, sailing transcends physical limitations. “It’s a spiritual experience for me,” she said. The 22-year-old has been sailing for four years now, but she is not your average sailor. Washington was born with no vision in her left eye and can only see colors, shapes and light in her right eye. Yet she is a champion sailor. Her team won first place at the Robie Pierce One-Design Regatta last June. The race left her soaked, as rain poured, filling her boots, but her spirit was hardly dampened. “You’re not a true sailor if you don’t sail in bad weather,” Washington said. This past weekend, she competed in this year’s Independence Cup and U.S. Para-Sailing Championship. Typically a three-day affair, the race was shortened due to thunderstorms on Sunday. Washington snagged second-place in the Independence 20 event with her sailing mate, Bonnie Everhart, who contracted polio as a child and now uses a motorized chair. “Bonnie, she’s a great sailor,” Washington said. “It was an overall wonderful experience.” The Independence 20 boat requires two people to sail but sits three. Per safety regulations, an “able-bodied” individual must be on the boat in case of an emergency. Everhart steered the boat, while Washington handled the sails, an arrangement that suits the latter just fine. “When it’s racing, I prefer to man the sails,” Washington said. “I do not have the confidence yet to steer in close quarters with so many other boats.” The Independence Cup is a premier regatta for sailors with disabilities. This year it was combined with the U.S. ParaSailing Championship, the national sailing championship for sailors with disabilities. Many who have competed in the championship have gone on to represent the United States in the Paralympic Games. Representatives from the U.S. Sailing Association were on hand to categorize sailors, ranking them for world sailing events. “We have an eye on who’s here,” said Nancy Mazzulli, U.S. Sailing Association’s adult programs coordinator. The weekend-long sailing event was sponsored this year by the nonprofit Judd Goldman Adaptive Sailing Foundation (JGASF), the very organization that brought sailing into Washington’s life. Call it being in the right place at the right time, but life seems to have steered Washington’s course to JGASF. She happened upon the organization in 2017, while out fishing with her uncle in one of Chicago’s harbors. “I got really bored,” she recalled. A group from JGASF just happened to be nearby. The foundation hosts several cruises throughout the year and the group had just docked for lunch. Curious, Washington went

ALEX ROGALS/Staff Photographer

ONBOARD: Jasmin Washington, an Oak Parker with visual impairment, took second place in the Independence Cup competition last weekend on Lake Michigan. to check it out. “I just started talking to people,” she said. “I have no shame when it comes to making friends.” Since then she has been a regular at JGASF, taking classes through the foundation’s scholarship program. When she’s not sailing, she volunteers at the regatta, working on one of JGASF’s 20 boats, which are adapted to accommodate sailors with disabilities. Taking care of boats is hard work, but Washington finds it relaxing to take care of the vessels and she likes being around other sailors. JGASF was founded in honor of Justin “Judd” Goldman, who took up sailing at 17 after being diagnosed with osteomyelitis, a disabling bone disease that prevented him from participating in many sporting activities. He went on to compete in sailing races throughout the world. He died in 1989 and a year later, his family established the Judd Goldman Adaptive Sailing Foundation, which has been training people with disabilities to sail ever since. Over a thousand people have enjoyed the freedom and joy of sailing through the foundation. “In many ways, sailing is an equalizer,” explained Judd’s son Peter Goldman. “The rules are the same whether it’s disabled sailing or able-bodied sailing and there’s beauty in that.” Washington credits JGASF with helping her develop her love of sailing, but the foundation has touched the hearts of many sailors, regardless of experience or ability. Before po-

lio, Everhart sailed often as a child. JGASF has given her that experience back. “It’s so good to be back sailing in any form one way or the other,” she said. John Mulesa, who served as the duo’s “able-bodied” individual, got involved with JGASF when personal circumstances made it seem likely he would need to learn adaptive sailing. He recovered, but for the last four years, he has been volunteering with the foundation. Although Washington is the youngest of the group, Everhart and Mulesa were quick to sing her praises. Her talents also caught the attention of the U.S. Sailing Association and Mazzulli. “It’s very cool and impressive what she’s been able to accomplish in her 22 years,” said Mazzulli. “She’s beautiful. She’s awesome. Quite talented.” Washington is taking on bigger challenges in the hopes of becoming a professional sailor in the future. Currently, she is learning to sail larger boats used for long-distance sailing. She makes time for others though. If you catch her down at Burnham Harbor, she might just offer to take you out on the lake. It’s something of a mission of hers to share her passion with the world. “I want to introduce as many land-lovers as possible to the boating world,” she said. “Once you sail, you never look back.”

Wednesday Journal, August 10, 2022

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An Oak Parker, former City Colleges official sentenced for fraud

Entered plea deal. Will serve five years for kickbacks By STACEY SHERIDAN Staff Reporter

Oak Park resident Sharod Gordon has been sentenced to five and a half years in federal prison for devising and engaging in a procurement fraud scheme during his time as a vice chancellor of City Colleges of Chicago. In a plea deal he admitted he had been directing school contracts to his romantic liaisons and pocketing kickbacks. “Sharod Gordon abused the public trust for personal profit,” said Assistant U.S. Attorney Megan DeMarco in the government’s sentencing memorandum. “De-

fendant used his government position to deprive underserved college students of honest services in order to line his own pocket.” From 2013 to 2017, Gordon admitted taking payments from vendor-companies in exchange for directing City Colleges contracts to them for community canvassing and flyer distribution services. Gordon was handed the 66-month prison term Aug. 3. As vice chancellor of legislative, government and community affairs, Gordon had the authority to approve and award such contracts. The companies submitted invoices, causing City Colleges to pay

out nearly $350,000 for work that, in some cases, was never performed. Gordon then reportedly directed representatives from the companies to pay him a portion of the money, according to the U.S. Attorney’s Office of the Northern District of Illinois. Some of the companies were created by Gordon’s City Colleges colleagues and personal acquaintances for the sole purpose of applying for the contracts. The 47-year-old pleaded guilty to a federal wire fraud charge last year, wherein

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he admitted to abusing using his position to “steer several vendor contracts” to women with whom he had or had had a “romantic relationship.” He likewise confessed to steering contracts to his former wife through a non-profit organization she established with his assistance, according to Gordon’s plea declaration. Gordon was indicted for devising the procurement fraud scheme in 2019. Seven other defendants, including Gordon’s exwife Angelique Orr of Berwyn, were also charged in the indictment.

Wednesday Journal, August 10, 2022

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UNVACCINATED

garding Lacey’s departure, stating only that the health department appreciates all its volunteers. However, Lacey is still technically a commissioner on the board of health, as from page 1 her April 23 email does not count as a formal letter of resignation. As to why LacLacey’s quiet departure stands in di- ey’s resignation has not been made offirect contrast to how she very vocally cial after so many months, Trustee Susan shared her beliefs only a handful of Buchanan offered some conjecture. months ago. “From the village’s perspective, I’m The short email – only three sentences speculating that they decided not to purin its entirety – was sent just three days sue it, because the important thing is before the board of health’s April meet- that she’s not participating in meetings, ing. Lacey, who was absent so that she can’t spread lies from the commission’s about COVID and the vacMarch meeting, made her cine,” said Buchanan. last board of health meetBuchanan has been one ing appearance Feb. 22. of Lacey’s biggest critics. Whether Lacey’s deciIn addition to serving as the sion to step down was inboard of health’s trustee lifluenced by or independent aison, Buchanan is an occuof public criticism of her pational medical physician views on vaccinations is and a faculty member of the unclear. She did not reUniversity of Illinois Chicaspond to requests for comgo School of Public Health. ments. Lacey previously Her views have not softened stated she did not consider since Lacey stepped down. herself an anti-vaxxer. “I would prefer an official Despite being notified of resignation, so that [Lacey] Lacey’s decision, Scaman can no longer attend meetDR. SUSAN BUCHANAN ings,” she said. told Wednesday Journal Oak Park village trustee she does not know if critiVillage staff are now cism was the reason for working to make Lacey’s her exit. Scaman said she resignation official, accordhad previously spoken with ing to Scaman, so that a reLacey “on multiple occaplacement can be appointed sions” to “better understand her per- to the board of health. Citizens must spective,” but that Lacey never got spe- submit an application to be considered cific about the criticism she faced. to serve on any of the village’s commis“I’ve spoken with her on multiple oc- sion. casions,” said Scaman. “And the last, The village board gets final approval which she could potentially be referring to appoint citizen candidates to comto [in the email], is that she didn’t think missions, but candidates must first be she would be effective on the board of interviewed by the Citizen Involvement health.” Commission. Lacey, according to Scaman, wished to When asked if the village board will see a larger value placed on “differences fill Lacey’s vacancy with someone who of opinion.” supports vaccination as a central tenet “She just didn’t think that her opinion of public health, Scaman said she did was going to be respected amongst her not consider it appropriate for someone peers,” the village president said. to be on the board of health if they do Lacey’s views on vaccinations are not abide the guidance of the Illinois in direct odds to the Oak Park Public Public Health Department and the CenHealth Department, which considers ters for Disease Control and Prevention. vaccinations a core function of public As the country is now facing an outhealth. break of monkeypox on top of COVID-19, “There shouldn’t be a difference in Buchanan took a harder stance regardopinions on vaccinations,” Oak Park ing anti-vaccination rhetoric. Public Health Director Chapple-McGrud“There’s no place in the Oak Park er previously told Wednesday Journal. Board of Health for lies and misinforIn a recent interview, Chapple-Mc- mation about infectious diseases or any Gruder did not share her thoughts re- health issue for that matter.”

Buchanan wants closure

“There’s no place in the Oak Park Board of Health for lies and misinformation about infectious diseases or any health issue for that matter.”

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Wednesday Journal, August 10, 2022

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No small feat: celebrating 15 years of microbrews Seven Generations Ahead bringing 70 brewers to Oak Park event By MELISSA ELSMO Oak Park Eats Editor

For 15 years, Seven Generations Ahead has paired brewers and beer-lovers at the annual Oak Park Microbrew Review. The largest zero-waste craft beer festival in the Midwest draws attendees by the thousands. Now, after riding waves of Covid uncertainty, the 15th annual event is scheduled for Saturday, Aug. 20 from 2 p.m. to 6 p.m. The event in downtown Oak Park supports Seven Generations Ahead and its mission to address climate change and promote sustainable communities. “The 15th anniversary marks a point of longevity and the success of the event,” said Gary Cuneen, executive director of Seven Generations Ahead. “Last year we dipped our toe in the water for a post Covid reentry and this year we are hoping to build the fest back to prior years.” Cuneen admits ticket sales are lagging behind pre-pandemic numbers at the moment, but organizers expect a flurry of last-minute ticket sales. He notes that Covid volatility is likely a factor in the sales differential and suspects people are waiting until the event date draws near to make the purchase. A draw for Oak Park and the surrounding communities, the Microbrew Review is set to feature 70 breweries serving up 130 unique beers for tasting. Event organizers are focused on “going beyond the beer” this year by highlighting the brewer backstories with particular focus on amplifying Black, Latinx, and womenowned craft breweries. Be on the lookout for Moor Brewing at the Microbrew Review. Established in Chicago on Juneteenth 2021, the Blackowned brewery launched with the intention of reaching communities that have been underserved by the craft brew mar-

ket. The knowledge that “less than 1% of the craft brewing industry is African American-owned’ drives owners Damon Patton and Jamhal Johnson to create their flagship session ale with notes of key lime, lemongrass and green papaya. Crafting brews in Homewood, Latinx and woman-owned Rabid Brewing is another notable name on the expansive list of festival participants. Raiye Rosado and Tobias Cichon are known for crafting creative brews from ingredients sourced from local farms — anticipate unexpected flavor profiles like blackberry-apricot, lemon-rose, and peach-blood orange-mango to differentiate them from other festival participants. Chicago-based Funky Town Brewing, brought to life by some OPRF graduates, will also be on site on Aug. 20. Their Summertime Chi, a session beer with notes of citrus and coriander, caught the attention of Forbes Magazine in June. Writers call the offering a “zesty little brew” and credited Funky Town brewers for “capturing everything they love about the city in the summer.” Hyperlocal participants include Kinslahger Brewing Company and One Lake Brewing of Oak Park, Exit Strategy Brewing of Forest Park and Flapjack Brewing of Berwyn. The 2022 Microbrew Review also marks the return of the Iron Brewer Competition. Twenty breweries are vying for best brew bragging rights and a fine trophy. Iron Brewers are given the same yeast and malt and challenged to brew something outside of their dedicated styles. VIP and Iron Brewer ticket holders have the power to vote for the winning brew. Cuneen indicated that judges can expect to taste a Southern German Hefeweizen from Elmhurst Brewing Company and a Bohemian Pilsner from Exit Strategy Brewing Company. For those looking to fill their bellies at the Microbrew Review food options are plentiful with Tres Sorelle, Q-BBQ, Betty’s Pizza and Pasta, Kalamata Kitchen, and Carnivore set to sell everything from

PROVIDED

Microbrew Review 2021 pizza and burgers to smoked eggplant sandwiches and shish kebabs. Bringing some city flair, Little Goat Diner will be onsite serving up avocado dip with chililime crunch. Maggie’s Sweets will offer treats for sale to general admission guests and will also join Carnivore in providing complimentary fare for VIP ticket holders in a designated tent located at Cross Function Ground Works in Oak Park. “Carnivore has a very specific reputation for things like steaks and burgers and fried chicken sandwiches and doing the VIP tent gives me an excuse to do lighter, more focused fare,” said Chef Brad Knaub, co-owner of Carnivore. “It’s a chance to show people a side of Carnivore that is a little more cutesie-poo fine

dining.” Knaub intends to let seasonal ingredients drive the menu for VIP guests. Organizers are committed to following all Covid related modifications required by the health department should they arise, but as of now the event is unrestricted. “We are excited to bring people to our downtown Oak Park venue with its cobblestone streets and shops, said Cuneen. “This event always feels like a reunion and gives us a chance to be outside with some of the most friendly and wonderful people who share a love of craft beer.” VIP, Iron Brewer and general admission tickets to the 15th annual Micro Brew Review are on sale now: sevengenerationsahead.org/opmbr/

Wednesday Journal, August 10, 2022

OAKPARK.COM | RIVERFOREST.COM

Discover Vegan Serendib Mary Anne Mohanraj adapts and expands Sri Lankan cookbook for restricted diets By MELISSA ELSMO Oak Park Eats Editor

Oak Park resident, novelist, academic and current District 97 school board member, Mary Anne Mohanraj emigrated from Sri Lanka to the United States with her family when she was just two years old. She spent her childhood enjoying her mother’s Americanized versions of Sri Lankan entrees, snacks, pickles and sweets. Mohanraj examined her mother’s cooking methods closely and ultimately added to her own culinary repertory. Her recipe arsenal morphed into a Sri Lankan food blog. As interest in her food writing continued to grow so did Mohanraj’s focus on developing recipes in a more detailed manner. In time, she transformed her distinct food memories into a collection of Sri Lankan recipes for American cooks entitled Feast of Serendib. Mohanraj’s research driven approach to recipe development made the book a reliable introduction to Sri Lankan cooking for adventurous home-cooks and a sound resource for Sri Lankan families hoping to reclaim their culinary traditions at home. After spending the summer of 2021 researching, the passionate author has completed an adaptation and expansion of the same book for vegan home cooks. “It was good for me to have something to concentrate on, but the pandemic shifted my approach,” said Mohanraj. “Normally I would do a lot of collaborative cooking and eating with my relatives, but I spent a lot of time doing research online and cooking at home.” Full of hundreds of recipes, Vegan Serendib, is a celebration of the nuanced sweet, sour and salty flavors of the South Asian island, but turns away from meat laden dishes. The cuisine of Sri Lanka, however, naturally lends itself to the vegan diet. The island boasts a significant Buddhist population who embrace a plant-based diet anchored in wholesome

MELISSA ELSMO/Food Editor

VEGAN FEAST: Author Mary Anne Mohanraj proudly displays lunch and her new cookbook. grains, legumes, fruits and vegetables. Vegan friendly coconut milk is responsible for much for the richness in Sri Lankan curries whether they contain chicken or chickpeas. Spurred on by the fact that many recipes from her homeland are inherently vegan, Mohanraj took furh tther inspiration from memories of a collegiate friend who was a “moral vegetarian.” v “She loved food and eating, but often felt left out in traditional restaute rant settings,” said Mohanraj who is ra not a vegetarian. “When people come no to my house, I want them to be able to eat everything.” ea She discussed the inclusion of colorful and impressive Rosappu Pachadi (Rose petal salad) inspired by the roses (Ro that grow in the verdant hills of Sri Lanka but was also quick to point out some of the dishes included in book may be less photogenic though no less delicious than its flowery counterpart. “This curry is brown food at its best,” said Mohanraj opening the book to the recipe for Kaliya Kari, an egg-

plant, plantain and potato curry. “It doesn’t photograph well, but it is really one of the best recipes in here and represents the Muslim community in Sri Lanka.” Mohanraj recently brought Vegan Serendib’s table of contents to life in a colorful kitchen display. She dove into her refrigerator to produce a robust collection of curries, pobriyal, sambol, and sothi. Complex spices, chili heat, plenty of onions, red rice, and jack fruit (in varying degrees of ripeness) came together in a sort of symphony of flavor on a single plate. As we ate it became clear that none of the recipes Mohanraj served were trying to replicate a dish they were not supposed to be -- authenticity is at the heart of everything she served and each recipe in her cookbook. As we dined, she discussed adding gourd to traditional dishes, chatted about the convenience of canned jackfruit, showed me the apparatus for making string hoppers and talked about her marshmallow and ice cream making adventures. Her passion for making Sri Lankan fare is as limitless as the complexity in her mushroom and jackfruit curry. Vegan Serendib is available for pre-order at serendibkitchen.com/vegan-serendib-2/. For those who already own Taste of Serendib, the 40 new vegan recipes are being sold as a mini book along with Taste of Serendib on Mohanraj’s website.

Wednesday Journal, August 10, 2022

OAKPARK.COM | RIVERFOREST.COM

C R I M E

Gun pulled on man who tried to stop theft A gun was pulled on an Oak Park resident Saturday morning, when he confronted a young man who was trying to cut the catalytic converter from his neighbor’s car. The victim had noticed the young man partially underneath his neighbor’s 2017 orange Kia Sportage at 9:15 a.m., Aug. 6 in the 400 block of North Oak Park Avenue. When the resident confronted the offender, a second young man hopped out of a nearby black vehicle and lifted up his shirt to reveal a gray metallic handgun. The two offenders then fled in the black vehicle without taking anything. They were last seen driving southbound on Euclid Avenue.

■ A white 2018 Dodge Journey parked with the engine running was removed at 4:58 a.m., Aug. 7 in the 100 block of Francisco Terrace. The estimated loss is $21,000.

Theft The catalytic converter was cut from a silver 2002 Jeep Liberty parked in the 1200 block of North Austin Boulevard between 12 p.m., Aug. 5 and 7:30 a.m., Aug. 7.

Criminal property damage

Attempted aggravated carjacking Two males attempted to carjack a Chicago resident in the 700 block of Lyman Avenue at 4:40 a.m., Aug. 7. After approaching the vehicle, the first male opened the victim’s driver’s side door, started punching him and ordered him out of the car, while the second said he had a firearm and threatened the victim. After the victim pulled out small knife, the two males fled, taking the victim’s wallet with them.

Someone was observed trying to enter into a building through an unlocked alley-facing window between 9:30 and 9:44 p.m., Aug. 1 in the 400 block of South Kenilworth Avenue. No entry was gained, and no loss reported.

Burglary

Motor vehicle theft

■A

standing propane lamp heater and a RYOBI circular saw were taken from a garage with a malfunctioning overhead door in the 900 block of Wesley Avenue between 9:30 p.m., Aug. 1 and 7:30 a.m., Aug. 2. The estimated loss is $600. ■ Someone broke the rear lock and door to gain entry into a home in the 300 block of South Austin Boulevard then ransacked a closet between 6 p.m., Aug. 5 and 10:47 p.m., Aug. 7.

Attempted burglary

■A

silver 2020 Hyundai Elantra was removed from the 1000 block of Woodbine Avenue between 9 p.m., July 31 and 1:24 a.m., Aug. 1. Chicago police later recovered the vehicle, with its steering column peeled, in the 5400 block of West Walton Street. The total estimated damage was unknown at the time of reporting. ■ A black 2020 Kia Optima parked in the 100 block of Le Moyne Parkway was removed between 9 p.m., Aug. 6 and 2:30 a.m., Aug. 7. The estimated loss is $18,000.

■ An unknown man was captured on video surveillance camera defacing an Oak Park resident’s Black Lives Matter and rainbow flag with white paint at 1:05 a.m., Aug. 3 in the 1000 block of South East Avenue. ■ Someone shattered the rear passenger’s side window of a white 2019 Hyundai Kona between 12 p.m., Aug. 1 and 4 p.m., Aug 3 in the 600 block of Wesley Avenue. ■ The front driver’s side window of a 2021 Volkswagen was broken between 8 p.m. and 5 a.m., Aug. 3 in the 800 block of South Humphrey Avenue. ■ Someone broke the rear passenger’s side window of a blue Honda minivan between 6 p.m. and 10:27 p.m., Aug. 7 in the 600 block of North Taylor Avenue.

These items, obtained from the Oak Park Police Department, came from reports through Aug. 2 to Aug. 8 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 Stacey Sheridan

Roebuck’s murder was ‘targeted’ Oak Park police ‘combing through evidence’

By STACEY SHERIDAN Staff Reporter

The murder of 41-year-old Terrence Roebuck is believed to have been targeted and not a random act of violence, according to Oak Park Interim Police Chief Shatonya Johnson. “That murder was targeted,” Johnson told Wednesday Journal. “Mr. Roebuck more than likely knew the individuals.”

Roebuck was found unresponsive July 23 in the 100 block of Lake Street. He died of multiple gunshot wounds, making his death Oak Park’s second gun-related homicide this summer. Johnson said Oak Park detectives are combing through a great deal of evidence, but the process will take time – more time than it took the department to identify the two perpetrators responsible for the death of 18-year-old Jailyn Logan-Bledsoe earlier this

summer. “The time that that took was definitely impressive,” said Johnson. “But that is definitely not the norm.” Each murder case is unique, making it difficult to estimate how long it takes to solve such cases. The rate at which a case can be solved depends on the amount of evidence and the number of leads, according to Johnson. “When we started on Logan-Bledsoe, we

had no idea that we would have resolved it in three weeks,” she said. The interim police chief would not share if the police department has identified any potential suspects in Roebuck’s murder, stating only that the police force is “working diligently” on the investigation. “If I can ask anything of the community, it’s patience to allow our investigators to follow every lead and to wait on physical evidence to come back because that takes time.”

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

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August 10, 2022

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colleges and universities internationally to gain insight into their varying cultures and to explore the range of academic and social opportunities available to students on campus. Compass College Advisory’s proven system has helped 95% of their students be accepted into their top-choice colleges as well as saved families over $30 million through scholarship awards. Jennifer, a parent and client from Hyde Park, saw her friends and their teens regularly fighting over creating college lists, meeting deadlines, and revising essays. “We didn’t have any of that,” Jennifer says, “because Compass provided a structure for our daughter to do those things herself. In this way, Compass helped preserve our relationship with our daughter in an otherwise stressful time. I would unequivocally recommend Compass. Their services were worth the investment!” For more information, visit compasscollegeadvisory.com or call 312.805.7299.

Ascension School Enriches Minds, Bodies and Souls

or over 110 years, Ascension has provided an excellent Catholic education in the spirit of love, kindness, respect, and inclusion. The strength and support of our Ascension community is notably present in the students’ academic, social, and spiritual education. Our goal is to create a positive atmosphere where students can grow in a safe, challenging and faith-filled learning environment. With an average student to teacher ratio of 13:1, our faculty recognizes the individuality of each child’s development and has the opportunity to work with our students one on one to help them achieve their academic goals. Our students experience a well-rounded, Catholic education that enriches their minds, bodies and souls. This year Ascension is one of only 15 Chicago schools entering its second year school partnership with the Museum of Science and Industry. Beginning in preschool, every

classroom has access to iPads, chrome books and students are exposed to comprehensive STEM opportunities throughout the year. We offer both full and half-day programs for our preschool children. Our preschooler’s day focuses on independent learning, socialization, reading readiness and literacy skills, fine motor and gross motor development. Ascension School also has an Extended Day Program which offers before school and after school care for our preschool to grade 8 students. Ascension provides outstanding fine and performing arts programs, extracurricular athletic programs and a number of clubs that promote teamwork, community and inclusion. Learn about what Ascension School can offer your child with a private tour at school.ascensionoakpark.com.

Special Advertising Section

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

GRACE LUTHERAN SCHOOL GRACE LUTHERAN SCHOOL 7300 Division Street in River Forest 7300 Division Street in River Forest LUTHERAN SCHOOL Grace Lutheran School – StrongGRACEGRACE LUTHERAN SCHOOL 708-366-6900 GRACE LUTHERAN SCHOOL

August 10, 2022

708-366-6900

7300 Division Street in River Forest 7300 Division River Forest 7300 Street Division in Street in River Forest Academics. Compassionate character. GRACE LUTHERAN SCHOOL 708-366-6900 708-366-6900 708-366-6900 7300 Division Street in River Forest

race Lutheran School serves children from ages 3 to 8th grade. The curriculum combines competitive academics with faith-based learning and worship. We have strong art, athletic, and music programs available to our students, furthering their well-rounded and exceptional education. As children learn from many different points of view, they grow in compassion and creativity. We are committed to providing opportunities to discover and celebrate diversity so that our school is a place where every child feels a sense of belonging. Grace offers a full-day kindergarten program. We have morning classes for the 3 and 4-year-old preschoolers, with an optional afternoon program. Extended care is available for all grades until 6:00p.m. Before-school care opens at 7:00a.m. In 1st through 8th grade, a strong core curriculum challenges children academically, while the school’s supportive

FAITH environment and high expectations help FAITH 708-366-6900 students achieve their absolute best. Grace has a full-time resource teacher/reading FAITH FAITH specialist who provides small-group and FAITH individual instruction for children who ACADEMICS ACADEMICS need additional support. Grace students consistently perform above the national ACADEMICS average on standardized tests, and grads ACADEMICS ACADEMICS regularly succeed at competitive high CHARACTER schools. CHARACTER Grace School is hosting “First Look CHARACTER Fridays” on the 2nd and 4th Fridays of each CHARACTER CHARACTER month starting in October, unless it’s a Early Childhood, ages 3 to holiday. Families can visit from 9:00am to Early Childhood, ages 35 to 5 First Look First Look Early Childhood, ages 3 to 5 11:00am and will be able to experience Full-day kindergarten First Look Full-day kindergarten Fridays what Grace is like first-hand. Tours will Full-day kindergarten Fridays Early Childhood, ages 3 to 5 Fridays First Look Half-day andHalf-day full-day forfor ages Early Childhood, ages 3and tooptions 5 options be available, plus a one-on-one with Half-day and full-day ages full-day options for ages 2nd & 4th First Look 2nd &4th 4th 2nd & Full-day kindergarten our Director of Enrollment or a current Fridays 3 to 4 Full-day kindergarten 3 to 4 3 to 4 Fridays of Fridays ofof Fridays Grace parent where you can get all your Fridays Half-day and full-day options forGrades & High, Junior High, Elementary Junior High, Grades 1ages to & 4th Half-day&Elementary and full-day options for ages Elementary & Junior Grades 18 to1 to 8 8 2nd each questions answered. each month. 2nd & month. 4th each month. Strong curriculum academic curriculum 3 Strong to 4 academic Fridays ofoffice Call the The school is currently accepting 3 toStrong 4 academic curriculum Call the office Individualized attention Fridays of Elementary & Junior High, Grades 1 to 8 Call the applications for the 2023-24 academic at office Individualized attention Elementary & Junior High, Grades 1 to 8 each month. Early Childhood, ages 3 to 5 Individualized attention Music, art, and sports teams at at year. For more information come to a “First each month. First Look Strong academic curriculum 708-366-6901 Music, art,art, and sports teams Strong academic curriculum Call the office Before and after-school care available Look Friday”, call the school office (708Music, and sports teams Full-day Individualized kindergarten 708-366-6901 Call the office attention 708-366-6901 366-6900), or visit GraceSchoolRF.org. Fridays Before and after-school Individualized attention care available at

FAITH

ACADEMICS

CHARACTER

Before and after-school care available at 708-366-6901 2nd & 4th 708-366-6901

art, and sports teamsfor ages Half-day Music, and full-day options Music, art, and sports teams Before and after-school care available Before and after-school care available 3 to 4 District 90 Welcomes StudentsElementary & Junior High, Grades 1 to 8 and Staff Back to School Strong academic curriculum select curricula that represent evidenceistrict 90’s tradition of excellence, Individualized attention based, pedagogically sound approaches equity, and high-quality instruction to classroom instruction. These materials serves as a beacon of encourageMusic, art, and sports teams are then implemented by our dedicated ment for new and returning students. teaching staff so that all students can fully However, the measure of success in any Before and after-school care available

school system must encompass broader goals and wider engagement by the entire school community. Below are three measures that ground District 90’s reputation for equity, excellence, and high-quality instruction.

Social Emotional Wellness District 90 has long recognized that socialemotional wellness and trauma-informed practices remain a prerequisite for academic success and are essential for forming and maintaining supportive relationships. Our practices extend beyond the classroom to include strengthening the social-emotional understanding of staff and families. Curriculum and Instruction District 90’s tradition of high-quality instruction continued throughout the summer as teachers refined instructional practices in preparation for students’ return. With the leadership of our instructional staff, we

Fridays of each month. Call the office at 708-366-6901

engage with the content.

Equity and Excellence About 8 years ago, we began the quest to address the issue of equity within our schools. The Board of Education has demonstrated a robust commitment to this priority. These two elements – excellence and equity – do not represent the choice between either/or. Instead, they represent an inclusive philosophy of both/and. District 90 continues to reflect on our progress as we work so that all students feel a strong sense of belonging in our classrooms.

River Forest Public Schools

7776 Lake Street, River Forest, IL (708) 771-8282

At its very core, District 90 is a teaching and learning organization. We will continue to leverage our traditions and practices to deliver equity, excellence, and high-quality instruction to the entire D90 community. Welcome back to school!

district90.org

A Tradition of Excellence & Equity for All Learners

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

August 10, 2022

Special Advertising Section

Stern Glass Works Connecting with the community

tern Glass Works, the new community glass studio at 817 S. Oak Park Ave., is dedicated to sharing the joys creativity, working with your hands, and problem solving bring through the language of glass art! At Stern Glass Works we specialize in art glass ranging from stained glass to fused and slumped glass and even the many facets of kiln cast glass which uses a plethora of mold making techniques. We are so excited to be offering classes for kids, adults, ages 65+, and multi-generational programs. In order to suite the various schedules and needs of our community we have classes of all different times and lengths. Maia Stern the owner of Stern Glass works explains, “The variety in our classes and schedule is fantastic. It means that there is a little something for everyone. If you

want to come in and try out the process or material with your family or friends then we have 1-day classes that are a wonderful way to spend a few hours on the weekend or an evening and make some memories. But for others who are looking to delve more deeply into a process, maybe start a new hobby or are even looking for a community to connect with, then we have multi-week classes and ongoing classes that you can attend once a week and work on a longer in-depth project.” In addition to our community classes Stern Glass works also offers Studio Membership for those ready for individual work, events, and more.

CLUSTER TUTORING PROGRAM REBRANDS TO LEARNING EDGE Free Tutoring Program Changes Name to Better Reflect Mission

The Cluster Tutoring Program is excited to announce it has rebranded and changed its name to Learning Edge Tutoring, with the new slogan: “Because learning doesn’t stop when school does.” The Board of Directors decided to change the name to better reflect the work of the non-profit organization that began over 30 years ago. The mission of Learning Edge is to contribute to the lives of Chicago-area students through free one-to-one tutoring and

Glass Art to Enrich Your Soul & Home

817 S. Oak Park Ave. Oak Park

STUDIO MEMBERSHIP COMMUNITY CLASSES PRIVATE 1-ON-1 LESSONS SMALL GROUP LESSONS REPAIRS / COMISSIONS EVENTS

COMMUNITY GLASS STUDIO Stained Glass — Fused & Slumped Glass — Kiln Cast Glass Glass Art to Enrich Your Soul & Home

708-608-9085 Community to Bolster Your Mind & Heart sternglassworks.com

academic enrichment opportunities enhanced by caring, mentoring relationships. To learn more about Learning Edge including volunteer opportunities and student registration, please visit the organization’s new website at learningedgetutoring.org or contact us at info@ learningedgetutoring.org

About Learning Edge: Learning Edge Tutoring, formerly known as the Cluster Tutoring Program, is a nonprofit, community-based organization that provides free one-to-one tutoring to more than 100 students in grades K through 12 who primarily come from the Austin neighborhood on Chicago’s West Side. The program was founded in 1990 by a “cluster” of local churches and community groups in response to the statistic that less than half of Chicago Public School students graduate from high school. Each tutor is matched with a student, and the tutorstudent pair works together during the school year to prepare the student for a successful academic career.

Homes History hits the market in River Forest

NEED TO REACH US?

Wednesday Journal, August 10, 2022

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

Second Empire stunner built in 1874, plus Prairie style designed by Wright protege

By LACEY SIKORA

Contributing Reporter

n River Forest, a pair of homes with architectural and historical significance recently hit the market, and the distinctive styles of the homes offer a glimpse into the village’s past. The first of the two residences, Solomon Thatcher Jr. House, was built in 1874 on two lots at 516-18 Keystone Ave. Solomon Thatcher Jr. was born in Canandaigua, New York, in 1833 and came to the Chicago area in 1858. He worked for the American Express company, dabbled in real estate and was an owner of the Blackstone Quarry on Chicago’s West Side. Thatcher purchased a parcel in River Forest west of Lathrop and between Chicago Avenue and Lake Street, which he subdivided for sale, giving portions to the Methodist and Catholic churches, which would later build the First Methodist Church of River Forest and St. Luke Church. Solomon Thatcher married Clara Thatcher, who was no relation. She was the only daughter of David C. Thatcher, whose father David A. Thatcher SOLOMON THATCHER JR. was an early settler of River Forest. A devout Methodist, Thatcher contributed to the Methodist exhibit at the Chicago World’s Fair of 1893 and later founded Lake Bluff as a Methodist outpost. Clara Thatcher was very active in the temperance movement, and her obituary notes that it was largely through her efforts that River Forest was a “prohibition town.” The Thatchers raised four children in their River Forest home: Maybelle, Frederick, Claribel and Florence. Solomon died in 1894 and Clara in 1899. Both are buried at Rosehill Cemetery in Chicago. The home is thought to be the only example of the Second Empire style in River Forest. Second Empire architecture, known for mansard roofs See HISTORY on page 22

PROVIDED

The Solomon Thatcher Jr. Home at 518 Keystone Ave. (above) is a massive, three-story residence that still retains its grand entry foyer (above left) and floor-to-ceiling stained-glass windows in the parlor (above right).

Wednesday Journal, August 10, 2022

OAKPARK.COM | RIVERFOREST.COM

HISTORY

Original features from page 21 and pedimented dormers, flourished in France during the reign of Napoleon III and spread throughout Europe and elsewhere during the latter part of the 19th century. Other hallmarks of the style borrow from the Italianate Style, such as double-hung windows, window hoods, decorative cornice brackets and wrap-around porches, like the deep porch fronting 518 Keystone Ave. At almost 8,000 square feet and spanning two lots, the house is an imposing presence on Keystone Avenue. A grand entry foyer welcomes visitors to the home. Throughout the first-floor, original woodwork in the detailed molding and wainscot invokes an earlier era. Floor-to-ceiling windows, 8-foottall pocket doors and stained-glass windows bring an old-world style to the home. The original woodwork continues on the second floor, where there are four bedrooms and three bathrooms. The third floor has three more bedrooms, a game room and another full bathroom. A one-bedroom coach house above the garage includes a full kitchen, bathroom and family room. Situated on an extra deep, 235foot lot, the home is within walking distance of Keystone Park and the Metra. The home is listed for $1,575,000 by Michael O’Neill of @ properties and had a 2020 tax bill of $52,110. A few blocks away, 560 Edgewood Place was built a generation later, and exemplifies what was a new trend in architecture. Designed in 1913 by William Drummond, who worked for a time as a draftsman

PHOTOS PROVIDED

William Drummond designed 560 Edgewood Place (top) in the Prairie style, and the open plan with its Roman brick fireplace (shown in 1915, above left, and today, right) still a focal point of the living room. Original woodwork can also be seen in the dining room (below). in Frank Lloyd Wright’s Oak Louis Guenzel and designed Park studio, the W. Muther many homes and buildings House is a stunning example in River Forest, including the of the Prairie style. First River Forest Bank BuildThe stucco-walled house has ing, the River Forest Women’s green trim and a tucked away Club and the River Forest Methfront entrance door. In a preodist Church. cursor to today’s popular open At 3,000 square feet, the home floor plans, the house has an has five bedrooms and two full bathrooms with a powder room open flow between rooms. The on the first floor. The house original, double-sided Roman WILLIAM DRUMMOND backs into the Thatcher Woods brick fireplace warms the livForest Preserve and boasts maing and dining rooms. Horizonture gardens with perennial flower beds. tal molding decorates the rooms. Margaret McSheehy of Historic Homes Drummond, who is credited with taking over Wright’s practice when the vola- Realty is listing the home for $999,000. The tile architect abandoned Oak Park in 1909, home had a 2020 tax bill of $22,847. Accordbuilt his own Prairie style home across the ing to the listing, a full set of Drummond’s architectural drawings of the house will be street that very year. Afterwards, Drummond partnered with conveyed with the house.

Wednesday Journal, August 10, 2022

OAKPARK.COM | RIVERFOREST.COM

SINGLE FAMILY HOMES

Sunday, August 14 ADDRESS ............................................................................. REALTY CO.......................................... LISTING PRICE. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . TIME 15W355 Concord St , Elmhurst . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Baird & Warner . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $389,000. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Sun 1-3

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Wednesday Journal, August 10, 2022

SPORTS AYSO soccer program aims to serve the differently abled

During the past decade, VIP has opened the sport to more than 150 kids By MELVIN TATE Contributing Reporter

When Sinead Aylward was looking to enroll her autistic daughter into the Oak Park branch of the American Youth Soccer Organization (AYSO) 10 years ago, she discovered that there wasn’t any available program designed for kids with special needs. “Soccer is one of the easiest sports to access; it’s just kicking a ball,” Aylward said. “I thought there must be some way for her to play.” But instead of waiting for someone to create such a program, Aylward decided to take the initiative. She did some research and found that AYSO had a national program called Very Important Player, or VIP, for players who have physical or intellectual disabilities. “The difficulties make it harder for [special needs] kids to play mainstream soccer,” Aylward said. “Many families would never consider it because it would be too challenging. There was nothing like the VIP division locally, so I contacted the Oak Park AYSO and asked why they didn’t have it.” After the Oak Park AYSO indicated it would love to have a program but needed a volunteer to oversee it, Aylward was initially hesitant. “At first, I didn’t want to do it. I wanted it to be done for me,” she said. “But after a couple of days, my husband and I felt we had to step up. I called them back and said, ‘Let’s do this.’”

Aylward received a manual from the national AYSO office of how to develop a local VIP program. Then she went out into the community and found several people willing to help, including a volunteer who traveled a long way to Oak Park. “Several parents of those with disabilities stepped up,” Aylward said. “Coming up on the first game in 2013, we had one coach for two teams. So, I put up a message on Facebook looking for another coach, and someone from the south suburbs of Chicago said he’d come up and help us out.” Aylward believes following the AYSO manual as best as possible and offering flexibility to the players has helped grow the program the last 10 years. In that time, 160 players have passed through the program, but Aylward said the impact VIP has had is more important than the numbers. “The most enjoyable thing to see is our older players show the spirit of the game to the younger kids,” she said. “Our players have become mentors to each other, and it’s a truly unifying experience.”

Dyson takes VIP helm After a decade overseeing the AYSO VIP divisions, Aylward stepped back to pursue other interests for her daughter. Christina Dyson took over this spring. “I’m so happy for Christina,” said Aylward. “She’s been a coach in our program since the third season and is really energetic in developing the skills of the players. She makes sure that not only they participate, but their participation ends up in something meaningful. Christina is pumped and is exactly what AYSO needs.” Dyson said she’s excited to build off of Aylward’s work. “The AYSO VIP program to me is truly soccer for all,” she said. “We work with

ALEX ROGALS/Staff Photographer

Christina Dyson (above) took over as program director AYSO soccer’s VIP program earlier this year, replacing Sinead Aylward, who’d helmed the program for the past decade. each individual student and parent to make sure the kids have the best experience possible.” Indeed, there has been a wide variety of VIP players over the years. “We’ve had a couple of students who were blind, so we have a ball that jingles; they can hear it,” Dyson said. “We’ve had a few people in wheelchairs, so we put bumpers on the wheels so that way they could be on the field. Also, some people need additional support, and they have someone standing next to them.” Dyson is especially proud of the high school-age players who have provided leadership and mentorship to the younger participants. She said the AYSO board has provided a few recommendations on students’ college applications. “It’s something you should be proud of and talk about on your application,” said Dyson, who has an autistic son participating in VIP. “Sometimes it’s hard to find programs

that are accepting of your child,” she said. “It’s really great for me as a parent to offer this program to others.” Like other athletic programs, VIP has had to deal with challenges resulting from the COVID-19 pandemic. There was a shutdown for all of 2020 and the spring of 2021. But Dyson said when VIP resumed last fall, there was good participation. “We wouldn’t have this program without volunteers, and we’re grateful to them,” she said. “Also, the parents provide a lot of feedback, and they’ve been very supportive. That means we’ve been doing something well.” The VIP fall season begins Sept. 10, and registration is still open. Dyson said the program could always use more volunteers, especially coaches and board members. For more information, Dyson can be contacted at adaptivesoccer@oakparkayso. org. More information is available at AYSO Oak Park website at ayso697.org.

Wednesday Journal, August 10, 2022

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

VIEWPOINTS

Math camp defeats math anxiety p. 31

At lunch with old politicos

very few months a group of us seniors get together for lunch. We all look forward to spending time together at one of our local restaurants. Typically, we first share concerns about health and family issues. One’s daughter is getting a divorce; one of us has kidney problems; another had heart surgery; and two in the group had COVID-19. My husband, Marty, used to call these health conversations, “organ recitals”! Following these discussions, we talk politics. Yes, we older gals are quite wellversed and interested in political and social issues. At our last lunch, our focus was the upcoming mid-term election. As it happened, we all had read recent articles in the Tribune and New York Times about presidential preferences of 20- to 30-year-olds. Both articles noted their strong concerns about the age of candidates. They said, “We are tired of old men and old ideas.” Our lunch group understand their feelings. Yet we also remember that only a short time ago throngs of young people enthusiastically rallied around Sen. Bernie Sanders. He is certainly no youngster, but he has very progressive ideas. Much of what these 20-30-somethings said in the articles has merit, but we who were discussing this agreed that good leadership must also have the characteristics of accumulated knowledge and experience. We all have different ages — the age we are living and the age the calendar says. For example, I have 200-year-old legs, but my thinking is somewhat younger. In selecting a candidate, we lunch gals do not consider a candidate’s age to be the defining characteristic. We oldster friends support progressive ideas, and we believe that President Biden has done an admirable job. Unfortunately, Biden has not received bi-partisan support for his agenda and our country faces multiple and very difficult challenges. We agree that cooperation is necessary if Biden is to accomplish what he wants to achieve.

HARRIET HAUSMAN

See HAUSMAN on page 29

PHOTO BY LOURDES NICHOLLS

Police process the scene of a shooting at the BP gas station at 100 Chicago Ave. in Oak Park on June 22.

An open, urgent letter to the village

n Aug. 1, 2022, Oak Park residents submitted a letter to the Oak Park Village Board of Trustees demanding action in response to the crime and traffic issues coming from the BP gas station on the corner of Taylor and Chicago avenues. The letter has been signed by 65 neighbors. The station was the site of the murder of Jailyn Logan Bledsoe in June. Neighbors had been working with the village for months to address this station. We learned just days ago that it is the most violent gas station in Oak Park. The police are more and more frequently deployed there. This use of our police is not the most effective way to deal with these issues and is a poor use of village resources. At the Aug. 1 village board meeting, the trustees spent over two hours discussing how to deal with the violence and traffic issues coming from this station and all 24hour gas stations. We appreciate the time and serious consideration they have given to these matters. They are concerned about resident safety. At that meeting, however, only minor changes were approved by the board, while the board has agreed to decide on more significant remedies at the next meeting on Sept. 6. We are relying on the board to act on that date, as our sense of urgency is unabated. We ask village staff to join with the trustees to ensure that resident safety is the village’s number one priority. It is dismaying that we have had to push so hard to get the village to take any action at all to address the most violent gas station in Oak Park. The police alone should not be tasked with these issues. Many of us want to see that station closed if other significant measures cannot be taken to ensure the safety of patrons and neighbors. As

the world becomes more violent, we call on the village to be aggressive in addressing businesses that are clearly nuisances, such as this one. We applaud the board’s exploration in September of ways to hold businesses accountable for persistent violent crimes and whether we should have restrictions on 24-hour gas stations. Here is our letter to the trustees, the village manager, members of the Transportation Commission, and village staff: The residents of the 400, 500 & 600 blocks of North Taylor have long been concerned for our safety, due to criminal activity at and around the BP Gas Station (on the corner of Chicago and Taylor), and dangerous traffic patterns that ensue from the business at the gas station, making it a public nuisance. We have recently been joined by some of our neighbors on Humphrey and Lombard in our efforts to get the village to act. Many who attended a neighborhood meeting earlier this month, expressed a desire that the gas station be closed altogether. Our concerns were brought to the board and escalated to the top of the agenda for the Transportation Commission earlier this year. While we remain truly grateful for, and appreciative of, this attention and response, we note with grief that it is while we were trying to obtain remedy from the village for our concerns that Jailyn Logan Bledsoe was murdered at the gas station. Violent crime at that station did not begin with Jailyn’s murder. Violent crimes have been occurring there for many years. There are serious safety issues specific to this gas station, as well as issues surrounding 24-hour businesses

RESIDENTS OF NORTHEAST OAK PARK One View

See GAS STATION on page 30

Wednesday Journal, August 10, 2022

O U R

V I E W S

The foundation leads

V I E W P O I N T S

he Oak Park-River Forest Community Foundation has done good work for many decades. But its leaders would acknowledge it has been a challenge to explain its mission to the public, to potential donors. Now that has changed as the foundation has laser-focused its energies on building a “racially just society” for Oak Park and River Forest and, critically, a broader West Cook community, including Austin, Proviso Township, Berwyn and Cicero. This mission is articulated in an extraordinary new community-needs assessment, two years in development, which reflects many voices across these contiguous neighborhoods and vivid data compiled by foundation staff, defining the systemic inequities built into these communities we call home. Community Voices is the full report and is worth reading at the foundation’s website. Tony Martinez, the foundation’s president, writes in an introduction that the foundation “has taken a hard and honest look at philanthropy and its ability to address systemic racial inequalities. We understand that our work … must intentionally address the racial disparities that exist in order for all members of our community to thrive and prosper.” The foundation last week launched the first of four public presentations setting out its findings. It was a compelling presentation and we urge our readers to find time to be part of a future event. More than 100 local voices were heard through a series of focus groups. These are articulate voices, mostly people of color, with insights that are eye-opening and plain-spoken. The data compiled by foundation staff lays out the reality of inequity in these communities with a focus on four key targets for change: ■ Educational opportunities ■ Health care, both mental and physical ■ Wealth inequality ■ And, finally, safety, belonging and stability. This work is essential and aspirational. Having the community foundation claim a leadership role through its philanthropy and its power to convene gives the organization new purpose. Central to this effort — and it mirrors the work of our own Growing Community Media nonprofit — is to pierce the bubble that Oak Park and River Forest have consciously created over decades. The foundation calls it West Cook. We call our five flags, stretching from Austin and Garfield Park to Proviso Township, the Greater West Side. The point is that looking up and looking out is not a scary proposition. It is an opportunity to learn, to listen, and love and do better, to be better, to connect and to challenge ourselves as communities. The work is hard, the lessons uncomfortable. We see progress underway on many fronts. Critical nonprofits blowing out the artificial boundaries that have divided us. Genuine connections being made between leaders — religious, political, nonprofit — in these neighborhoods. Capital being infused in disinvested communities. Deeper reporting on everyday life in the neighborhoods we cover. Honest conversations about race and inequity. Bold decisions being made in our schools to bring change. So much work to do. The foundation’s leadership is foundational.

Report from the resort

t happens every year. Summer brings our longest sustained stretch of sunny warmth, along with a recurring fantasy: that our urbanized suburb, located just outside a major metropolis, has been magically transformed into a summer resort town. Granted, while viewing Shakespeare under the stars in Austin Gardens, with aircraft ripping through the atmosphere overhead or ambulance sirens broadcasting emergencies at the local elder facility, and the steady screech of cicadas doing their best to burst the bubble, it’s not always the easiest fantasy to entertain. Yet sipping coffee and nibbling an apple tartelette outside Lea’s French Street Food is a fine way to start a morning — as is sitting on a bench in Mills Park or Austin Gardens, watching dogs frolic while owners schmooze, or attending bird-song recitals and basking in a breezeway before the temps climb and drive us back indoors. Imbibing or abiding, the day starts earlier in summer and is worth leaving our confines behind. It’s summertime and the goin’ out is easy. The rest of the year feels like a race with the present, trying to keep a step ahead. In summer, it’s wiser to surrender to the here and now and, like a beachcomber, collect moments cast up on summer’s shore: Sitting on a friend’s porch, eating rhubarb pie, served warm; spooning a Black Cow at a table outside Petersen’s on a hot Sunday afternoon; the subtle scent of Catalpa blossoms and the heavy perfume of Linden blossoms, blended and suspended in the thick night air; mulberries crushed on the sidewalk, staining the concrete purple; the chilly blast passing open shop doors; Queen Anne’s Lace, sunflowers, and chicory taking over the highway roadsides; swimmers flip-flopping home from the Ridgeland Common or Rehm Park pools, sarong-ed by towels; morning or afternoon klatches outside myriad coffee shops; actors spraying spittle into the stage-light glow of a Shakespearean evening; crickets trilling and dogs sounding alerts as pedestrians pass on a walk down streets densely overhung by trees, accompanied by the scattershot brilliance of fireflies in the darkening dusk; standing on a rooftop deck, dwarfed by an ocean of air, the departed sun reflecting off coral reefs and shining sandbars of clouds, as swallows dart to and fro skimming mosquitos. This is living. Living is a skill we master too late — a momentby-moment proposition that seems diametrically at odds with “making a living.” In summer, weekends stretch before the resort residents like a limitless chain of possibility. October seems a long way off as Saturday morning shoppers load up on stalks of brilliant gladiolas,

ripe tomatoes and sweetcorn at Farmers Market. Front-yard gardens are fully arrayed with hydrangeas and adored by passersby. Cycling is back in vogue, thanks to the pandemic. Pilgrims from all over the world parade past Frank Lloyd Wright homes and a bounty of other Prairie-style masterpieces. Deer are the main attraction for watchers in the woods near Trailside Museum by the River Des Plaines. Sidewalk sales lure curious customers to Oak Park Avenue and Lake Street. T-ball games are contested, in a fashion, on fields of parental dreams each June. The Lake Theatre offers sanctuary from the sultriness of July and August — and the promise of two hours of armchair travel. Work and other forms of busyness inveigh against the resort illusion, but vacation is ultimately a state of mind. Dining in the quaint cobblestone gangway next to Il Vicolo Ristorante makes it easy to mistake familiar surroundings for a European getaway. Nursing a glass of wine with friends on the corner in front of Anfora Wine Merchants adds to the air of cosmopolitan civility. Some evenings it seems as if the entire resort is dining al fresco. The local pyrotechnics on July 4th at the high school stadium were canceled this year after the shootings in Highland Park, but the rumor is they may be rescheduled. Sunday night concerts in Scoville Park, meanwhile, are almost as entertaining to listen to as the frolicking kids are to watch. As resorts go, Oak Park and River Forest are fine places to spend the summer months. You can hear live music most nights outside FitzGerald’s on the Berwyn side of Roosevelt Road. Thursday Night Out offers a progressive dinner on Marion Street, sampling cuisine from local restaurants, while musicians entertain. On weekends, art galleries beckon on Harrison Street, down by the expressway. Summer is the time to be outside, when a park feels as familiar as a living room, and offers much more room for living. Curling up with a good book in one of our three branch libraries is an excellent way to while the time, but the reading is just as good on a park bench, a chair in the shade — or even a hammock strung between two trees as some seem inclined to recline. Martha’s Vineyard may have more celebrities, Aspen has more mountains, and Chicago boasts beaches along a Great Lake, but we have far more trees per square foot, and shade is a lovely consequence of our decidedly deciduous leafery. For a few golden weeks each summer, this community holds its own as a resort. At any rate, as famous native son Hemingway famously said in The Sun Also Rises, isn’t it lovely to think so?

KEN

TRAINOR

V I E W P O I N T S S H R U B T O W N

by Marc Stopeck

Wednesday Journal, August 10, 2022 W E D N E S D A Y

JOURNAL of Oak Park and River Forest

Editor and Publisher Dan Haley Director of Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Michael Romain Senior Editor Bob Uphues Digital Publishing and Technology Manager Briana Higgins Staff Reporters Stacey Sheridan, F. Amanda Tugade Staff Photographer Alex Rogals Viewpoints Editor Ken Trainor Real Estate Editor Lacey Sikora Big Week Editor James Porter Columnists Marc Blesoff, Jack Crowe, Doug Deuchler, Harriet Hausman, Mary Kay O’Grady, Kwame Salter, John Stanger, Stan West Design/Production Manager Andrew Mead Editorial Design Manager Javier Govea Designer Susan McKelvey Marketing Representatives Marc Stopeck, Lourdes Nicholls, Kamil Brady Business Development Manager Mary Ellen Nelligan Donor Relations Manager/Food Editor Melissa Elsmo Development & Sales Coordinator Stacy Coleman Circulation Manager Jill Wagner E-MAIL jill@oakpark.com Special Projects Manager Susan Walker Chairman Emeritus Robert K. Downs

BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Chair Judy Greffin Treasurer Nile Wendorf Deb Abrahamson, Gary Collins, Darnell Shields, Sheila Solomon, Eric Weinheimer

Hiroshima is now a city of peacemakers

hortly after 9/11/2001, I visited Hiroshima as a teacher on a Fulbright program. Our guide, Yoko Konosan, had a personal connection to the bomb. Her mother, a high school student on Aug. 6, 1945, was late for school. At 8:15 a.m., when she saw the atomic flash, she crouched behind a cement water fountain. That act saved her from intense radiation and heat injuries. Today, you might think, if you didn’t know the city’s history, that you were just in a beautiful city park with flowers, sculptures, trees, and a museum, if it weren’t for the skeletal ruins of a building with exposed steel girders. The bomb exploded directly above this building, but because the blast radiated out in all directions, the structure survives … a grim reference for Ground Zero. Arriving at sunset, we first toured the park, talking in whispers. We stopped at the Peace Bell, and Konosan encouraged us each to ring the bell for world peace. With the tolling of the bell still resonating, we walked to the nearby statue of Sadako. A 2-year-old girl when the bomb fell, Sadako developed “the atomic disease” (leukemia) nine years later as a result of exposure to bomb radiation. Her paper cranes became famous as symbols of peace. In growing darkness, we entered the museum. I saw a half-melted lunch box with the blackened remains

of the food inside. A woman, searching for her son, could only find his lunch box, and took it in her desperation to have something of his. Konosan showed us a picture of a blackened wall where survivors scratched names, asking if anyone had seen them, similar to the message boards near the World Trade Center after 9/11. She also said Hiroshima survivors had flashbacks of the atomic blast when they saw New York crowds running away. The Peace Museum does not just chronicle the destruction caused by the atomic bomb. A large portion of the museum is about the emergence of peace as the mission of this city. The museum documents the development of Hiroshima University’s internationally respected peace curriculum and the Hiroshima Peace Institute’s conferences. I left the museum inspired that traumatized people can choose to respond not with violence but with introspection and a commitment to peace. I also felt regret. The United States was making plans for war with Iraq. May this anniversary remind us of the enormous human costs of war, and the value of peacemaking. Paul Seline is an Oak Park resident. This letter was previously printed in the Chicago Tribune.

PAUL SELINE

One View

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, email Viewpoints editor Ken Trainor at ktrainor@wjinc.com.

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

‘ONE VIEW’ ESSAY ■ 500-word limit ■ One-sentence footnote about yourself,

your connection to the topic ■ Signature details as at left

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

H O W

T O

R E A C H

U S

ADDRESS 141 S Oak Park Ave., Oak ParkIL 60302 ■ PHONE 708-5248300 EMAIL Dan@OakPark.com ■ ONLINE www.OakPark.com Wednesday Journal is published digitally and in print by Growing Community Media NFP. The newspaper is available on newsstands for $1.00. A one-year subscription costs $43 within Cook County and $53 outside of Cook County. Advertising rates may be obtained by calling our office. Periodical rate postage paid at Oak Park, IL (USPS 10138). Postmaster, send address corrections to Wednesday Journal, 141 S. Oak Park Ave., Oak Park, Il 60302. © 2022 Growing Community Media, NFP.

V I E W P O I N T S

The root of gun violence is not mental illness

The most fortunate of us, if not professionally mandated, probably are not familiar with the DSM-5. It is the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders currently in its fifth edition which categorizes and describes mental illness. The point I wish to make is that “homicidal” is not in the DSM and is not a form of mental illness. Although it is not impossible that a person with mental illness might be homicidal it is certainly not more likely than that a person without mental illness might be homicidal. I make this point because it is incorrect to suppose that all mass murderers are people with mental illness. They are not. People with mental illness are our neighbors and friends, members of our church and our family. As with all chronic illnesses, their lives are not easy and it is a grave injustice to them to suppose that they are dangerous. They are actually

DID YOU KNOW

Sandra Shimon

Gun Responsibility Advocates Oak Park

Keep artificial turf out of our park playgrounds I had the pleasure of spending the day with my grandson at the newly renovated Rehm Park. I have spent a lot of time at Rehm over 35 years of living in Oak Park. While my grandson had a great time, I was dismayed that the renovation included artificial turf. I understand that there is an argument for it requiring less watering and maintenance, but I am really hoping that this doesn’t become the norm for all the parks in Oak Park

and River Forest. You may say it’s a safe alternative if you fall, but it really is harder on a body. This trend also seems to be seeping into residential backyards, which, studies have shown, decreases the value of a home. Artificial turf is not a sustainable surface, it is not recyclable, it is not environmentally friendly at all, and it is not better for athletes.

Cary McLean

River Forest, formerly Oak Park

What trend is the library setting?

Equity for older adults is noticeably missing from the Oak Park Public Library’s email statement of July 13. It states that all OPPL hardcopy newspaper subscriptions will cease in 2023 (Wednesday Journal and Oak Leaves excepted). The Public Library Association stated on July 26: “PLA staff is not aware of any public libraries that have already ceased, or made

oprfchamber.org/ starting-a-newbusiness

plans to cease, offering access to paper copies of daily newspapers, in Cook County or elsewhere.” Knowing that the OPPL seeks to identify itself as a trendsetter within the community and the library world, is this the policy for which it seeks to be known?

Peggy Conlon-Madigan Oak Park

WE'VE GOT SOME GOOD NEWS!

STARTING A NEW BUSINESS? Check out our new resources page to help you when starting a new business in Oak Park or River Forest!

IN 2022 THE VILLAGE OF RIVER FOREST IS PROVIDING CHAMBER MEMBERSHIPS TO EVERY BUSINESS IN THE VILLAGE!

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Thanks to support from the Village of Oak Park, every new Oak Park business in 2022 automatically joins the OPRF Chamber!

more likely to be the victims of crime, than the perpetrators. While it most certainly is an excellent idea to fund and make available mental health services, to suppose that this and not reasonable gun regulation will solve our national problem of mass shootings is sadly mistaken. It is a gun problem and the solution must address the prevalence, deadliness, and easy availability of guns, especially weaponry designed for military use. So while it is laudable to improve mental health services, some of which are seriously aggravated by gun violence, such as anxiety and depression, regulating gun accessibility and would certainly be a more effective approach to eliminating gun violence by getting to the root of the problem.

OAKPARK.COM | RIVERFOREST.COM

Wednesday Journal, August 10, 2022

You

IT PRIOR

This program is supported by ARPA funds.

V I E W P O I N T S

OAKPARK.COM | RIVERFOREST.COM

HAUSMAN

Dining al politico from page 25 Younger folks are rightfully complaining about the stagnancy of government and the politicized standoff, and factor in “the impatience of youth.” The current demands of the presidency require a great deal of energy and perhaps how Biden ages will be a factor in his performance leading up to 2024. We do not believe that a particular age, a specific number, is the issue. Rather, we view the age of a candidate in a much more nuanced way. It’s about how a particular someone ages, and this is varied and individualized. Even though we who were gathered at this lunch wanted to focus on 2022 mid-terms, we found ourselves talking about candidates for 2024. Our group consists of four Democrats, 1 Independent, and 1 anti-Trump Republican. Our Republican friend strongly believes it’s time for a woman president. She said she’d probably vote for any woman over

The BP gas station has had years of problems

At the Aug. 1 village board meeting, trustees discussed the escalating crime at the BP gas station, located at Chicago and Taylor avenues. The Aug. 4 Oak Leaves credits village trustees James Taglia and Lucia Robinson for their tough stance on this issue. Friends and neighbors near the station have endured years of fights, loud music, gunshots, armed robbery and now a dreadful murder. Many neighbors and I signed a letter outlining our concerns to the village board and I am so glad we were heard. Oak Park is a valuable, lucrative market, and businesses should be an asset to our community, not a dangerous liability.

Shelly Uslenghi Oak Park

any man running. The other choices we discussed were Jamie Raskin, Adam Schiff, and Corey Booker. My preferred candidate, Michael Bennett of Colorado, was a name unfamiliar to the others. I’ve followed Bennett’s career and voting record, and I find him very impressive. I am sorry he is not better known. At that lunch, we also agreed we’d prefer President Biden not seek re-election. We, too, are concerned about his age, as it relates to how he, specifically, is aging and confronted with the serious challenges he faces.

Wednesday Journal, August 10, 2022

Our jam-packed lunch discussion ended with sharing ideas about how to help get Democrats elected. Even the one Republican said she’d most likely vote for a Democrat, but she thinks most Republicans, Trump fans or otherwise, would not vote for a Democrat. We passionately agree that at this critical moment for our country, we must vote for people who will lead with integrity and honesty. We hope they seek ways to override some of the Supreme Court’s recent decisions and that they focus on tackling climate change, passing sensible gun

laws, ensuring voter rights and women’s rights. We are a small group of lunch friends who represent folks who are passionate about our Constitution and our country. We have less than 100 days before the mid-term election. Let’s encourage people to vote for candidates who support these critical issues. Let’s not focus on the age of our leaders, but rather on his or her capability to strengthen our precious Democracy. Harriet Hausman, 98 years young, is a longtime resident of River Forest.

Do you have DIABETES?

f you do, you should know how important foot care is. Over time, diabetics risk developing foot complications. When the nerves are damaged from chronic high blood sugar, feet can become numb or painful with burning or tingling. This is called diabetic neuropathy. When diabetes affects the arteries, circulation to the legs and feet may be compromised. Either of these conditions may lead to serious problems including ulceration, even amputation.

The key to prevention is early diagnosis of diabetes, and regular foot exams from a podiatrist. Diabetics who receive regular foot care, including paring of calluses and debridement of thick fungal toenails, are almost four times less likely

to undergo an amputation than those who do not seek treatment. Medicare and some private insurances cover 1 pair of diabetic shoes and 3 pair of protective insoles each calendar year. Dr. Lambert has been a supplier of diabetic shoes since 2002. The shoes come in 30 different styles each for men and women. These include boots, lightweight colorful athletic shoes, and dress shoes. Even patients who are not diabetic love the look and comfort of the footwear. Diabetic socks, slippers and compression hosiery are also available. Protecting your feet with appropriate footgear is an important aspect of preventive care for diabetics.

708.366.FOOT (3668)

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Wednesday Journal, August 10, 2022

GAS STATION from page 25 and gas stations throughout the village. As it stands, the BP gas station on Chicago and Taylor endangers the safety and health of the public. The village has had to use untold resources to police the serious crime and traffic incidents there. Residents feel the need to avoid — and instruct their children to avoid — the public areas adjacent to the station. Without question, our concerns warrant immediate action. The time to rely on “good faith” gestures has passed. The gas station owner has created and maintained a business that is hostile to residents in the neighborhood, without consequence, for years. We wholeheartedly support the initial recommendations from the Transportation Commission, which spent two hours listening to our concerns and engaged in a robust discussion about possible solutions. We strongly believe that the elimination of the driveway on Taylor will alleviate many of the safety and traffic concerns, without simply diverting the problems to Lombard or Humphrey. Points of note:

V I E W P O I N T S ■ Village ordinance currently limits gas stations to two cutouts. This station does not warrant an exception. Village ordinance also recognizes the inherent danger of having a driveway too near to the intersection. Residents have long noted near accidents and pedestrian danger associated with cars driving on Chicago Avenue and turning into the Taylor cutout as if it were a direct entry. ■ If removing the driveway overly inhibits the delivery of fuel or goods, then the village can require a significant barrier (a gate or a fence that is padlocked) which truck drivers or staff can unlock for the purposes of deliveries. ■ Residents welcome a rumble strip. If, after putting down a rumble strip, traffic issues persist, we would be willing to explore other mitigations (speed tables, curb bumpouts, traffic circles and the like). None of the residents have asked for a speed wagon. In the future, we ask the Trustees to explore enacting the following ordinances: ■ Prohibit 24-hour gas stations in residential areas that are not within a block of a public highway. ■ Add a section to the Nuisance Code that recognizes a business that hosts three or more violent crimes (including any display

OAKPARK.COM | RIVERFOREST.COM

of deadly weapons) in a six-month period will be presumed to be a nuisance. This would shift some of the burden of crime prevention to the business owner. ■ Any business that has hosted violent crime must be required to have working security cameras of the outside area, as well as whatever protections the owner feels are necessary for his or her employees. ■ If police are able to identify goods sold that attract a violent criminal element, the village should consider an ordinance prohibiting their sale. ■ Residents would like to see the village impose a standard for management of waste at the gas station site (trash from the gas station blows blocks in either direction on Taylor Avenue) — including a barrier between the dumpsters and the neighborhood — which is a violation of current village code. We appreciate very much the time several trustees have taken to meet with us, and the assistance of the Transportation Commission. Finally: ■ Consider the importance of peace and public safety to the residents of the village. ■ Do not lose sight of the unfathomable loss of an 18-year-old girl to her family and to this community. ■ Take seriously our sense of urgency

and our need for action. We live here. We observe every day, multiple times a day, the costs of not removing that curb cut, the need for an obstacle to calm traffic, and what happens at the BP gas station on Chicago and Taylor 24 hours a day. Karen Burke, Brad Farris, Diane Ratekin, Tom Yates, Carolyn Newberry Schwartz, Dr. David Schwartz, Georgina Swanson, Denis Roarty, Barbara Shulman, Dan Lesser, Laura Smith, Sean Smith, Rhoda Bernstein, Allan Bernstein, Nathan Aydelott, Deborah DelSignore, Bruce Robbins, Geoff Swanson, Helene Swanson, Candace Durham, Kim LoDolce, Susan Abbott, Lynn Heald, Kristi Osga, Victor Ottati, Jerry Delaney, Karl Leonard, Gina Gleason, Carmelita Nicks, Melvin Nicks, MaryAnn Mason, Hilarie Terebessy, David Terebessy, Kim Grimaud Phillips, Kim Vulinovic, Dan Vulinovic, Rudolph Robinson, Sabrena Robinson, Kathleen Bokar, Mike Bokar, Megan McLean, Matt McLean, Pam Penney, Eric Penney, Scott Webb, John Gagliano, Gary Alder, Diana Alder, Jasan Slack, Erin Slack, John Norton, Beth Clark, Clare Roarty, Sophia Burke, Tom Pratt, Marilyn Pratt, Gale Liebman, Tonya Hamilton, Clare Frieling, Darin Frieling, Lynne Duschene, Dave Duschene, Mike Phillips, Melanie Jakupovic, Cathy Schornstein, David Watson

RibFest Every Day! Mickey’s is the place!

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V I E W P O I N T S

OAKPARK.COM | RIVERFOREST.COM

The impossible dream Social media has made perfect look achievable, so now reality has become undesirable.

Author unknown

oday, social media is doing a number on our young people. Authentic friendships and real face-to-face interactions have been supplanted by how many “likes” one gets on a posting. Many young people today crow about the thousands of friends that they have amassed on their social media platforms. Yet these so-called “friends” are simply casual followers of numerous people. Despite having so many online friends, our young people are experiencing an energydraining loneliness. The minute they awake, they are on their phones scrolling to check out the latest friend request or check on how many “likes” they’ve received overnight. In addition to monitoring the ego-boosting likes and friendship requests, they are subject to outlandish claims of how one can go from being penniless to billionaire status just with a few questionable so-called life hacks. On the surface, some of these “life hacks” appear to be reasonable and useful. Yet, there is no guarantee that, individually or collectively, they will have enough thrust to jettison them from their parent’s basement to a Manhattan penthouse. Regardless of how much faith one places in ‘life hacks,’ success is the result of hard work. As the adage goes, “the only place where success comes before work is in the dictionary.” Still, social media interactions create and promote illusions of greatness and importance where neither exists. These illusions are built on a constant and unending stream of stories about entertainers, athletes and zero-to-hero entrepreneurs. The underlying message is that ‘anybody’ can achieve outlandish success if only they (1) ignore the doubters, aka, haters, (2) manifest, without hard work, a bountiful future and, (3) steadfastly “believe in their vision,” even if it is not grounded. They become addicted to and trapped in their own selfserving perception of reality. Like any addiction, social media extracts an enormous toll on one’s mental and physical health. The addicted spend hours scrolling and looking for posts that reinforce their biases and world view. As a result, social media becomes an opioid that keeps them high and passive in real life/time. Sadly, this addiction also has an unintended consequence of making the person reject any feedback that challenges their point of view. In other words, they become “learner blocked.” Ironically, it is exactly this feedback that they really need if they’re serious about their goal(s). If one does not accept their perspective, that person is either a hater or jealous. We watch them mentally drift into another dimensional wormhole. While we can still see and hear them as they are being sucked into this alternate dimension, unfortunately our words seemingly can’t reach them. Nonetheless, we must be persistent and not give up. Only truth and compassion can and will save them from this vacuous space of empty promises of fame and wealth. Kwame S. Salter is president of the Salter Consulting Group LLC.

KWAME SALTER

Wednesday Journal, August 10, 2022

Math camp is an antidote to math anxiety

e are middleschool teachers who are returning to school this year refreshed, relaxed, and happy after a fun summer … teaching math! We teach at The Children’s School, a small, progressive, independent school here in Oak Park. This summer we ran a two-week math camp for rising 6th - through 8th-graders with a wide range of math backgrounds and abilities. We used a summer camp curriculum developed by math education professor Jo Boaler that focuses on exploring big ideas in mathematics and on changing students’ beliefs about themselves as math learners. In Oak Park, we hear many stories about students who suffer from math anxiety. These are smart, creative, charming, articulate children whose anxiety surrounding math is so severe, it renders them paralyzed when faced with anything math-related. Math anxiety can pervade the child’s life, harming their self-efficacy and their relationship to school and learning. It impacts family life, too, as parents battle with their children about going to school in the morning and doing homework in the evening. Even in less extreme cases, math anxiety is cause for concern. In one survey, 93 percent of Americans reported experiencing some degree of math anxiety. But why? People are not born with a fear of mathematics. Rather, they grow up in a culture that communicates in many ways — including media portrayals — that math is hard and only some people can be good at it. At the same time, math is seen as a gateway to a good life. Success in school, admittance to college, and access to high-paying jobs all seem to depend on it. The result of these conflicting messages is that children grow up in a society that is saturated with anxiety about math. Adults tell children that they must do well in math, but cultural messages tell them they probably won’t. Parents communicate their own anxieties about math, for example, by worrying aloud about what opportunities may be missed if a child does not get into an advanced math track early in their school career. And teachers whose performance reviews depend on their students’ test scores communicate to children that they must do their very

best on timed tests. How scary for children to fear letting down their parents and teachers! We can do better than this. Indeed, we must do better. It is ironic, given the focus in math education on the utility of math, that people who use math in their jobs frequently describe having played with mathematics as children. They enjoyed patterns, puzzles, problems, and exploring relationships in numbers. Many Americans have grown up believing that only “math people” enjoy math in this way, and everyone else just has to suffer through it. Math camp showed us that enjoyment of mathematics isn’t just for special people of a certain intelligence or disposition. Everyone can engage in math as play. Giving everyone the opportunity to do so is an equity issue because school math experiences directly influence who wants to keep on doing math as they get older and who wants to drop math as soon as possible. Children and adults need to understand that there is no such thing as a “math person.” Math camp also gave us a new perspective on teaching math during the school year. Because we and the students had so much fun together, we have come to view all our math classes as an opportunity to deepen children’s enjoyment of school. To be clear, we are not talking about making math more palatable through games. We have seen how all students can experience the pleasures of actually doing mathematics: thinking slowly and deeply about a problem, finding patterns, sharing conjectures, and exploring ideas. Like reading, doing math can be a wellspring of interest and pleasure, both in childhood and throughout life. But in order for this to be the case, children need a space to do math that is protected from the pressures and anxieties of the adults around them. Math anxiety is not something that simply happens to children; rather, it is their predictable response to experiences and messages that are created by adults. Math camp taught us that math can be empowering and joyful for all learners. We believe all children deserve to experience this, and we would recommend that other schools try out this program of summer math that grows children’s happiness, confidence, curiosity, and interest in mathematics. Gloria Mitchell and Mika Yamamoto are middle-school teachers at The Children’s School in Oak Park.

GLORIA MITCHELL & MIKA YAMAMOTO One View

Wednesday Journal, August 10, 2022

Betty Williams, 77 Family poet

Elizabeth “Betty” Williams (nee Kraakevik), 77, of River Forest, died on Aug. 3, 2022. She was born on Aug. 9, 1944, in Portage, Wisconsin, and grew up in Decatur, Illinois. She attended William Woods College, the University of Iowa and Millikin University. At Milliken, she met her future husband, Bob Williams, who said her beautiful blue eyes were the first thing he noticed. They wrote poems to each other as they courted, a tradition she continued throughout her life, writing both meaningful and funny poems for the birthdays and special occasions of her loved ones. They married in 1968 and moved to the Chicago area, settling in Oak Park and giving birth to Amy. She worked for several different companies in the city, including

Robert Carlson, 89

Tutored inmates at Cook County Jail Robert William Carlson, 89, died peacefully on June 16, 2022 in Carmel, Indiana with his family by his side. Born on Sept. 26, 1932 in Chicago, he was the eldest child of Dorothy and William Carlson. A member of the Boy Scouts of America, earning his Eagle Scout badge, he graduated from Chicago Christian High School, Carleton College, and served as a U.S. naval aviator, stationed in Iwakuni, Japan, as a lieutenant. Upon his return, he began his business career in management consulting and became the chief financial officer at Bronson and Bratton, a manufacturing company in Burr Ridge. He and his wife Barbara (Koch) were married in 1961 and lived in Oak Park and River Forest for the next 60 years. They were active members of Grace Lutheran Church in River Forest where they served in numerous lay leadership positions. On the board of the SAFER Foundation, he was actively involved in Bible studies and tutoring with inmates at Cook County Jail.

O B I T U A R I E S Taubensee Steel and Wire Company for more than 36 years before retiring in 2011. She loved spending the better part of her summers with the family on Cranberry Lake in Eagle River, Wisconsin. She loved baking cookies, especially at Christmas time, when she and her three granddaughters (who called her Nainy) made traditional Swedish pepparkakor together. She never said no to an adventure with her family, loved playing piano, singing and listening to all kinds of music, seeking out finds at estate sales, refinishing furniture, watching musicals and gardening — and even worked as an extra on Chicago-based TV shows, including Chicago Fire. Betty was preceded in death by her husband, Bob, and her parents Archie and Edith Kraakevik. She is survived by her daughter, Amy Elisabeth (Williams) Johnson; her granddaughters, Catherine (22), Annabel (19) and Elizabeth (16) Johnson; her in-laws, Dave Williams, Larry and Mary Williams; friend Joan Hopkins; many nephews and nieces; many newly-discovered half-siblings; and her walking companion, Cubbie. A funeral service will be held at 11 a.m., Saturday, Aug. 13, at First Presbyterian Church of River Forest. A lifelong runner, he enjoyed playing ice hockey, baseball and tennis well into his later years. And he always cheered for the Cubs and Blackhawks. The Japanese language and culture he was introduced to during the Navy remained an essential part of his life as did the many Japanese friends he met throughout his lifetime. He and his wife loved to entertain, and opened their house to visitors from abroad to stay for months to travel or study. He loved the simple things in life, like his famous “relish” and cookie smashes. In 2021, they moved to The Barrington in Carmel, Indiana. Bob is survived by his wife, Barbara, and his three sons, Bob Jr., Bill, and Brian, as well as his grandchildren, Ryan, Bradley, Will, and Nick (Bob Jr. and Gayle), Micah and Anaka (Bill and Konni), and Kiernan and Charlie (Brian and Sarah). He is also survived by his sisters, Louise C. Sinclaire and Jane Carlson, as well as his “brother” Genichi Nagao. He was pre-deceased by his son Brad who died as an infant. Bob’s life will be celebrated on Saturday, Aug. 13, in a funeral service at Grace Lutheran Church, 7300 Division St., River Forest, IL 60305 at 11 a.m., preceded by visitation at 10 a.m. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that gifts in memory of Bob be made to the Grace Lutheran Church River Forest Benevolence Fund.

Richard Demir, 64 Founded Demir Medical Group

Richard Haines Demir, MD, FACOG, 64, of Scottsdale, Arizona, formerly of Oak Park, died on July 31, 2022. Born on March 13, 1958 in Oak Park, he was the only child of Vivian Alice May Haines Demir and Richard N. Demir. He grew up in Oak Park and graduated from Oak Park and River Forest High School, class of 1976. He received the MENSA award in 1976. He went on to earn a Bachelor of Science degree in Biology in 1980 at Tulane University in New Orleans and earned his Doctorate of Medicine in 1984 at Rush Medical College in Chicago. He was a resident in Obstetrics and Gynecology in 1988 at Mount Sinai Hospital, Chicago, and was recognized by numerous honor societies.

Chuck Kincaid, 86

Urban planner, progressive advocate Charles “Chuck” Kincaid, 86, formerly of Oak Park, died on July 31, 2022, peacefully in his sleep surrounded by loved ones who will strive to honor his memory by living their lives as he did — to the fullest. Born in Chicago, he called Oak Park, Beloit, and Milwaukee home. He retired from a successful career in planning and development in 2006 and relocated to Beloit, Wisconsin with his wife Sandy. He served on the Beloit City Council (2012-2016), the Beloit Board of Appeals, the Beloit-Janesville Symphony Orchestra board and was also involved with the Society for Learning Unlimited. After relocating to Milwaukee to be close to family, he enjoyed the symphony and the many theaters and museums that Milwaukee offered. Chuck was in Army ROTC at Texas A&M and honorably discharged from the U.S. Army Reserve. He earned his Bachelor of Arts degree from Roosevelt University in Chicago in 1971 and his Master of Urban Planning degree from the Illinois Institute of Technology in 1977. An avid cross-country skier, artist and photographer, he loved simple pleasures, such as riding his bike, taking a stroll along the lake

OAKPARK.COM | RIVERFOREST.COM He started his own private practice in 1998 and was the medical director and president of Demir Medical Group until 2005. He dedicated his career and time to serving the underprivileged women and children of the surrounding communities. Demir Medical Group was the largest private OB/GYN practice in Illinois for several consecutive years. He has been a leader in the field of minimally invasive surgery since 1990. In 1994, he helped create the Demir Foundation to fund needed immunizations to children of the working poor in the greater Elgin area. In 2007, he relocated to Arizona. Richard was the husband of Kelly A. Demir for 27 years. They shared a love of music, art, food, travel, golf and unique adventures. In 2002, he earned the title of Dad to Morgan Erin and Jordan Taylor and was their biggest supporter. The funeral service will be held on Aug. 10, viewing at 5 p.m. and service at 6 p.m. at Hansen’s Desert Hills Mortuary and Cemetery, 6500 E Bell Road, Scottsdale, Arizona 85254. Visit www.hansenmortuary.com for online condolences. and reading the New York Times. He and his wife enjoyed meeting new people and learning about different cultures. He treated everyone with love and respect and was an advocate for progressive causes. Chuck is survived by his wife, Sandra; his sisters, Valerie Curb, Marianne Wood (John Parkinson), and Michele Wood (John Bowen); his daughters, Lisa Kincaid and Cindy Renaud (Keith); his grandchildren, Greg Renaud (Courtney) and Jeff Renaud (Georgia); his great grandsons Auden and Emerson Renaud; and the family pets, Daisy the Dawg, Moose, Bailey, and Sage. He is also survived by many nieces and nephews and was preceded in death by his mother, Vivian Woodville; his father, Charles Edwin Wood; his brother, J.B. Kincaid (Christy Moore); and his sister, Dianne Andersen (Tom). He taught his grandsons, Jeff and Greg Renaud, about Frank Lloyd Wright and to read everything they could to expand their perspective on life. Trips to the Oak Park Farmers Market for donuts, treats and sunflowers are among their fondest memories of him. He encouraged them to raise questions intelligently and develop their own opinions on the mysteries of the universe. After being diagnosed with mild cognitive impairment, he participated in many of the educational and support programs offered by the Alzheimer’s Association. For those wishing to honor Chuck’s legacy, please consider making a donation to the Alzheimer’s Association in his name. A private memorial service will be held in Milwaukee.

Wednesday Journal, August 10, 2022 Growing Community Media

Deadline is Monday at 5:00 p.m.

HELP WANTED

EMERGENCY PREPAREDNESS AND RESPONSE COORDINATOR

BY PHONE: (708) 613-3333 | BY FAX: (708) 467-9066 BY E-MAIL: EMAIL@GROWINGCOMMUNITYMEDIA.ORG HOURS: 9:00 A.M.– 5:00 P.M. MON–FRI

HELP WANTED

HELP WANTED • NETWORK SPECIALIST Class specifications are intended to present a descriptive list of the range of duties performed by employees in the class. Specifications are not intended to reflect all duties performed within the job. DEFINITION To perform various network/system administration, computer support, and operational activities for the Village including computer system setup, configuration, and testing. SUPERVISION RECEIVED AND EXERCISED Reports directly to the Information Technology Services Director. EXAMPLE OF DUTIES: Essential and other important duties and responsibilities may include, but are not limited to, the following: Essential duties and responsibilities 1. Ensure that best in class customer service is provided to both internal and external customers and also embrace, support, and promote the Village’s core values, beliefs and culture. 2. Configure, test, and deploy network systems, such as, firewalls, routers, switches, wireless equipment, network servers and storage arrays. 3. Configure, test, and deploy system servers, such as, file, print, Internet, e-mail, database, and application servers. 4. Configure, test, and monitor server and end-user systems for security, such as, user accounts, login scripts, file access privileges, and group policy management. 5. Configure, test, and deploy end-user systems, such as, workstations, laptops, mobile devices, printers, and software. 6. Test, configure, deploy, and support security systems, such as, facility access system, video & audio system. 7. Monitor and auditing of networks, systems, and user activities to ensure security and efficiency of systems. Create scripts and reports of detail activities for regular review. 8. Perform and participate in disaster recovery activities, such as, backup procedures, data recovery, and system recovery planning. 9. Assist end-users with computer problems or queries. Troubleshoot systems as needed and meet with users to analyze specific system needs. 10. Ensure the uniformity, reliability and security of system resources including network, hardware,

software and other forms of systems and data. 11. Prepare, create and update user/technical procedure documentations and provide computer training. 12. Assemble, test, and install network, telecommunication and data equipment and cabling. 13. Participate in research and recommendation of technology solutions. Other important responsibilities and duties 1. Train users in the area of existing, new or modified computer systems and procedures. 2. Participate in the preparation of various activity reports. 3. Travel and support remote facilities and partner agencies. 4. Operate, administer and manage the Village and Public Safety computer systems, including E-911 center, in-vehicle computer systems. 5. Prepare clear and logical reports and program documentation of procedures, processes, and configurations. 6. Complete projects on a timely and efficient manner. 7. Communicate effectively both orally and in writing. 8. Establish and maintain effective working relationships with those contacted in the course of work. 9. Perform related duties and responsibilities as required. QUALIFICATIONS Knowledge of: Principals and procedures of computer systems, such as, data communication, hierarchical structure, backups, testing and critical analysis. Hardware and software configuration of. computers, servers and mobile devices, including computing environment of Windows Server and Desktop OS and applications, Unix/Linux OS, VMware, iOS/Android. Network protocols, security, configuration and administration, including firewalls, routers, switches and wireless technology. Cabling and wiring, including CAT5/6, fiber network, telephone, serial communication, termination, and punch-down. Telecommunications theory and technology, including VoiP, serial communication, wireless protocols, PBX, analog, fax, voicemail and auto-attendant. Principles and methods of computer programming, coding and testing, including power shell, command scripting, macros, and

VB scripts. Modern office procedures, methods and computer equipment. Technical writing, office productivity tools and database packages. Ability to: Maintain physical condition appropriate to the performance of assigned duties and responsibilities, which may include the following: - Walking, standing or sitting for extended periods of time - Operating assigned equipment - Lift 50 pounds of equipment, supplies, and materials without assistance - Working in and around computer equipped vehicles Maintain effective audio-visual discrimination and perception needed for: - Making observations - Communicating with others - Reading and writing - Operating assigned equipment and vehicles Maintain mental capacity allowing for effective interaction and communication with others. Maintain reasonable and predictable attendance. Work overtime as operations require. Experience and Training Guidelines Experience: Three years of network/system administration in the public or private sector, maintaining a minimum of 75 Client Workstation computers. AND Training: Possession of a Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university with major coursework in computer science or a related field. Certifications in Microsoft Server Administration, Networking, Applications and Cisco Networking. Possession of a valid Illinois Driver License is required at the time of appointment. Vaccination against COVID-19 strongly preferred. WORKING CONDITIONS Work in a computer environment; sustained posture in a seated position for prolonged periods of time; continuous exposure to computer screens; work in and around computerized vehicles outdoor and garage facility; lifting heavy equipment, communication cabling and wiring into walls and ceilings.

PARKING ENFORCEMENT OFFICER

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

RIVER FOREST PARK DISTRICT PARK SPECIALIST

Starting Salary Range: $17.50 $20.38/HR plus full benefits Working Hours: The Park Specialist is a full time non-exempt position working 40 hours per week, plus overtime. The scheduled work hours for this position are Monday – Friday, 7:00 AM to 3:30 PM, including ½ hour unpaid lunch. Hours may be shifted occasionally to accommodate specific tasks. Summary: The Park Specialist is responsible for assisting the Director of Parks with the maintenance operations of the Park District grounds, facilities, and equipment. The work includes, but not limited to: 1. Landscape maintenance operations for the Park District. This includes but not limited to: a. Turf maintenance: Mowing, irrigation, fertilizing, seeding, weed control, and trash removal. b. Athletic field maintenance: Baseball diamond infields, soccer fields, football fields, basketball courts, tennis courts, and installation and maintenance of necessary apparatus of each field use. c. Landscape maintenance: Soil grading and preparation, tree planting, tree trimming, tree spraying, tree watering, mulch bed maintenance, and flower bed maintenance. d. Construction: Installation of park/ playground equipment, park benches, park signage, retaining walls, and drainage systems. 2. Assist with the custodial maintenance of all Park District facilities. 3. Assist with any equipment repairs for the Park District. This includes but not limited to vehicles, tractors, any facility, or program equipment. 4 Assist the recreation department in set up, construction, and repair of all special event props. Qualifications: 21 years of age. A valid Illinois State Driver License (Class A). In good physical condition with sufficient strength to lift and hold 50 pounds. Interested candidates shall submit an application in person or by email: John Beto, Director of Parks 401 Thatcher Avenue River Forest, Illinois 60305 708-366-6660x103 jbeto@rfparks.com

The Village of Oak Park is seeking qualified candidates for the position of Emergency Preparedness and Response Coordinator in the Health Department/Village Manager’s Office. This position will coordinate disaster response, crisis management and medical countermeasure dispensing/ distribution activities for the Village of Oak Park, provide disaster preparedness training, and prepare emergency plans and procedures for natural (e.g., floods, earthquakes), wartime, or technological (e.g., nuclear power plant emergencies, hazardous materials spills, biological releases) or disasters. This single class position is also responsible for the complex administrative duties required for state, federal and local response processes and grant management. Applicants are encouraged to visit the Village of Oak Park’s website http://www.oakpark.us/jobs. Interested and qualified applicants must complete a Village of Oak Park application. First review of applications will be August 5, 2022.

CROSSING GUARD

The Forest Park Police Department is seeking qualified individuals for the position of Crossing Guard. This position requires flexible hours during days when schools are in session. A background investigation and drug screening will be conducted prior to consideration for the position. Applications available at Village Hall, 517 Desplaines Avenue or on-line at www.forestpark.net and should be returned to Vanessa Moritz, HR Director, at Village Hall. For additional information, contact Dora Murphy at 708-615-6223 or write dmurphy@forestpark.net. Applications accepted until position is filled. EOE.

RIVERSIDE, IL - POLICE OFFICER

Application deadline: Aug. 15, 2022 4 P.M. (CST) Find more detail at IO Solutions at https://iosolutions.com. Orientation and written test is Sep. 17, 2022, 8 a.m. at Riverside Township, 27 Riverside Rd. Riverside, IL.

Manager, Credit Card Origination sought by Avant LLC in Chicago, IL to dvlp, implmnt & main undrwrtng, ln asgmt, pxng & vrfctn strtgs. Telecommuting permitted. Apply at jobpostingtoday.com Ref# 55584.E

MARKETPLACE

YARD SALE Forest Park

VINTAGE YARD SALE! 920 THOMAS AVENUE SAT AUGUST 13 9AM-3PM ONE DAY ONLY!

Household items, barware, some barbies, BOOKS, Vintage fabric, Vintage lingerie, Vintage games, light ﬁxtures, 2 vintage sinks, bricka-brack, clothing, LPs, Vintage Baby Buggy. Too much to mention! No early birds please!

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

FIRE INSPECTOR

The Village of Oak Park is seeking a qualified candidate for the position of Fire Inspector Part-Time in the Fire Department. This serves the public through enforcement of Village fire & life safety codes and ordinances; through inspections of residential, commercial and industrial properties; and provides consultation and information to residents, architects, attorneys, fire services personnel and builders regarding laws, rules, regulations and policies relating to fire and life safety. Applicants are encouraged to visit the Village of Oak Park’s website http://www.oak-park.us/jobs.

North Riverside Police Department (Crossing Guard Application) School Crossing Guard Job Summary The North Riverside Police Department is looking for a dependable person to fill a School Crossing Guard position. Your job is to ensure the safety of children and other pedestrians as they cross the street before and after school. While wearing your safety vest and holding a light-weight stop sign, you will check for oncoming traffic, step into the road, and direct vehicles to come to a stop before instructing people to cross. You must be comfortable working outdoors in various types of weather. There will be an interview by the Police Chief and/or his designee. You must be able to pass a background and drug test for this position. Rate of pay will be discussed during the interview process.

School Crossing Guard Duties and Responsibilities • Assist children, parents, and other pedestrians as they cross the street before and after school • Manage the flow of traffic • Report suspicious activity School Crossing Guard Requirements and Qualifications • High School diploma or GED certificate • Availability during the school week/hours • Comfortable working outdoors in various weather conditions • Communication Skills

*To inquire about this job position call the North Riverside Police Department@ 708-762.5414, or Email Commander C. Boenzi cboenzi@northriverside-il.org If you want to fill out a job application for this position visit the North Riverside Police Department -2359 S. Desplaines Ave. North Riverside Illinois 60546.

River Forest Public Schools

District 90 is seeking an experienced School Psychologist the students and their environments in Qualifications: developing appropriate interventions and • Valid Illinois Professional Educator License with an programs. Conducts appropriate individual endorsement in School Psychology psychoeducational assessments for • Prefer at least 5 years of successful educational children who have or are suspected of having a disability experience in both general and special education; and provides written reports of assessment results. and at least five years of successful experience in Participates in all staff conferences of students having evaluating students, collaborating, and problem-solving received psychological evaluation or re-evaluation, with school and District teams. including hospital discharge. Provide support to special • Master’s Degree preferred. education personnel including assisting staff with development of functional behavioral analysis and Demonstrates knowledge of special education legislation behavior intervention plans, modeling “best practices” and and acts in accordance with those mandates; follows assisting special educators with instructional practices. policies and procedures of the District. Develops and implements activities that encourage students to be For a complete list of duties, please visit our website at life-long learners. Identify and assess the learning, https://www.district90.org/about/employment development, and needs of individuals and groups, as Interested candidates should complete the online well as, the environmental factors that affect learning application available at www.district90.org. and school success. Uses assessment data about

Wednesday Journal, August 10, 2022

CLASSIFIED

BY PHONE: (708) 613-3333 BY FAX: (708) 467-9066 BY E-MAIL: EMAIL@GROWINGCOMMUNITYMEDIA.ORG

MARKETPLACE

CARS WANTED

HOME SERVICES

CEMENT

MAGANA

C O N C R E T E C O N S T RU C T I O N

CLASSICS WANTED CLASSICS WANTED Restored or Unrestored

or Unrestored Cars &Restored Vintage Motorcycles Domestic / Cars & Vintage Motorcycles Import Cars:

“QUALITY IS OUR FOUNDATION” ESTABLISHED IN 1987

COMMERCIAL INDUSTRIAL RESIDENTIAL

708.442.7720

Mercedes, Porsche, Corvette,Cars: Ferrari’s, Domestic / Import Jaguars, Muscle Cars, Mustang & Mopars Mercedes, Porsche, Corvette, $$ Top $$ all makes, Etc.

'5,9(:$<6 )281'$7,216 3$7,26 67(36 &85% *877(56 6,'(:$/.6 612: 3/2:,1* 67$03(' &2/25(' $**5(*$7( &21&5(7(

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FREE ESTIMATES LICENSED, BONDED & INSURED

Ferrari’s, James Jaguars,• 630-201-8122 Muscle Cars, Collector

$$ TopR$$ makes, Etc. E N all T AWANTED LS CLASSICS Collector James

Restored Unrestored CITY or RENTALS Cars630-201-8122 & Vintage Motorcycles 3 BEDROOMS 911 N LECLAIR, CHICAGO 60651 Domestic / Import Cars: 3bd, dining room, kitchen, living room, bathroom, closed in back porch. Heat included. $1150 per month. 1 month security. Call 773-626-5751

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

$$ Top1,$$ PARK & STUDIOS, 2 &all3 makes, BR OAKEtc.

FOREST PARK

Collector James 708-386-7355 630-201-8122

Best Selection & Service

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DOWNTOWN OAK PARK, 2BR APT

2BR, 1BTH apartment for rent. Hardwood ﬂoors. Renovated and freshly painted. Small, vintage building. No smoking. No pets. Parking included.

708-657-4226

OFFICE/RETAIL FOR RENT OAK PARK THERAPY OFFICES:

Therapy ofﬁces available on North Avenue. Parking; Flexible leasing; Nicely furnished; Waiting Room; Conference Room. Ideal for new practice or 2nd location. 708.383.0729 Call for an appt.

RIVER FOREST–7777 Lake St. * 1116 sq. ft. * 1400 sq. ft. Dental Office RIVER FOREST–7756 Madison St. * 960 sq. ft. OAK PARK–6142-44 Roosevelt Rd. * 3 & 5 room office suites FOREST PARK–7736 Madison St. *2500 sq. ft. unit Strand & & Browne Strand Browne 708-488-0011 708-488-0011

1 RETAIL SPACE FOR RENT/SHOPPING CENTER FOREST PARK, IL.

1,635 Sq. Ft. (END CAP) Excellent Condition. Recently Updated.

*Heavy trafﬁc location. Ideal for: CLEANERS, FAST FOOD, RETAIL PRODUCTS, OFFICES, ETC.! (SPACE FOR A DRIVE-THRU BUILD) *Special Rates. If Leave message, Include: Your Name, Phone Number and Type of Business. TEXT or CALL: (708)828-6491

ELECTRICAL Ceiling Fans Installed

ELECTRICAL

A&A ELECTRIC

Let an American Veteran do your work

We install plugs for battery-operated vehicles We fix any electrical problem and do small jobs We install Surge Protectors • Home Re-wiring • New Plugs & Switches Added • New circuit breaker boxes • Code violations corrected Service upgrades,100-200 amp • Garage & A/C lines installed Fast Emergency Service | Residential • Commercial • Industrial Free Home Evaluations | Lic. • Bonded • Ins. • Low Rates • Free Est.

708-409-0988 • 708-738-3848 Sr. Discounts • 30 Yrs. Exp. Servicing Oak Park • All surrounding suburbs • Chicago area

FLOORS

HAULING

KLIS FLOORING INC.

BASEMENT CLEANING Appliances & Furniture

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

Removal Pickup & Delivery.

773-722-6900

HANDYMAN

PAINTING

Mike’s Home Repair

CLASSIC PAINTING Fast & Neat Painting/Taping/ Plaster Repair Low Cost • 708.749.0011

Drywall H Painting H Tile Plumbing H Electric H Floors Windows H Doors H Siding Ask Us What We Don’t Do

708-296-2060

CURT'S HANDYMAN SERVICE Drywall Repair • Painting Fans Installed • Carpentry Trim Gutter Cleaning • Window Repair

Free estimates Excellent References No Job Too Small

708-488-9411

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 House sitting • Plant care Bonded References

708-524-1030

PUBLIC NOTICES

PUBLIC NOTICE REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS Notice is hereby given by the President and Board of Trustees of the Village of River Forest, Cook County, Illinois, that sealed Proposals will be accepted for:

PUBLIC NOTICE STATE OF ILLINOIS VILLAGE OF BROOKFIELD Notice of Bid Posting for the demolition of 3638 Rosemear Avenue, Village of Brookfield, IL NOTICE is hereby given that the Village of Brookfield will receive sealed proposals for the demolition, removal and disposal of demolition debris of the building located at 3638 ROSEMEAR AVENUE, BROOKFIELD, ILLINOIS until 12:00 P.M. Central Daylight Savings Time, Friday, August 26, 2022, at the Office of the Village Manager. Bids will be opened and read in the Edward Barcall Hall in the Municipal Building, 8820 Brookfield Avenue, Brookfield, Illinois, on Friday, August 26, 2022, at 12:00 pm, Central Daylight Savings Time. The Project consists of the demolition and restoration of a single-family residential structure and detached garage located at 3638 Rosemear Avenue in the Village of Brookfield, Illinois.

from time to time without further notice except as otherwise required under the Illinois Open Meetings Act.

2022 Electric Vehicle Infrastructure Network Study The Village of River Forest is seeking to complete a comprehensive analysis of the Village to determine the ideal locations for EV infrastructure installations – both for Village-owned facilities/ﬂeets as well as for the greater public, to encourage EV usage. Findings and recommended improvements from this study will shape the Village’s perspective relative to the installation of EV-related infrastructure. It is the goal of the VILLAGE to contract with a qualiﬁed FIRM that has substantial experience in this type of work. The RFP is available for download starting Thursday, August 4, 2022 at: www.vrf.us/bids Proposals must be submitted by Friday, September 2, 2022 at 10:00 a.m. to: Village Hall – Public Works, 2 nd Floor Village of River Forest 400 Park Avenue River Forest, IL 60305 Proposals will be considered based on the criteria set forth in the RFP. No Proposal 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 deadline. The Village of River Forest reserves the right in receiving these Proposals to waive technicalities and reject any or all Proposals. Published in Wednesday Journal August 10, 2022

LEGAL NOTICE STATE OF ILLINOIS, COUNTY OF COOK, ssCircuit Court of Cook County, County Department, Domestic Relations Division In re the Marriage of: Tequilla S. Liddell, Petitioner, and Albert Jamon Henry, Respondent, No. 2022 D 002785. The requisite affidavit for Publication having been filed, notice is hereby given to you, Albert Jamon Henry, Respondent, that a Petition has been filed in the Circuit Court of Cook County, Illinois, by the Petitioner, Tequilla S. Liddell, for Dissolution of Marriage and that said suit is now pending. Now, therefore, unless you, the said Respondent file your Appearance and Response electronically to said Petition with the Office of the Clerk of the Circuit Court of Cook County, Illinois, on or before August 31, 2022, 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. IRIS Y. MARTINEZ, Clerk. Published in Wednesday Journal August 10, 17, 24, 2022

The complete bid packets may be accessed on the Village’s website www.brookfieldil.gov in the “About” section under “Bids and Requests for Proposals/Qualifications.” Questions may be directed to Emily Egan, Director of Community Development at (708) 485-1113. Individuals with disabilities requiring a reasonable accommodation in order to participate in any meeting should contact the Village of Brookfield (708) 485-7344 prior to the meeting. Wheelchair access is available through the front (South) entrance of Village Hall. By the Timothy C. Wiberg, Village Manager Published in RB Landmark August 10, 2022

PUBLIC NOTICE STATE OF ILLINOIS VILLAGE OF BROOKFIELD Notice of Public Hearing Village of Brookfield Planning and Zoning Commission August 25, 2022 at 7:00 PM NOTICE is hereby given that the Village of Brookfield Planning and Zoning Commission will conduct a public hearing on Thursday, August 25, 2022 at 7:00 p.m. in the Edward Barcal Hall located at 8820 Brookfield Avenue, Brookfield, Illinois for the purpose of considering a request for variations from §62-12 Minimum residential lot size of the Village Code for property located at 3138 Morton Avenue, Brookfield, Illinois 60513 (PIN 15-34-101-041-0000). Legal Description: Lot 21 and South 1/2 of Lot 20 in Block 62 of S.E. Gross’s Second Addition to Grossdale in Section 34, Township 39 North, Range 12, East of the Third Principal Meridian, in Cook County, Illinois. The public is invited to attend the public hearing and present oral and/ or written comments. Written comments may be provided prior to 4:00 PM on the day of the public hearing to: Village of Brookfield, Planning and Zoning Commission c/o Kate Portillo, 8820 Brookfield Avenue, Brookfield, IL 60513, kportillo@brookfieldil.gov, or 708-485-1113. Oral or written testimony may be given during the public hearing. The application may be viewed at the Village of Brookfield Village Hall during normal business hours. Please reference PZC Case 22-06. Public hearings may be continued

Individuals with disabilities requiring a reasonable accommodation in order to participate in any meeting should contact the Village of Brookﬁeld (708) 485-7344 prior to the meeting. Wheelchair access is available through the front (South) entrance of Village Hall. By the Order of Chuck Grund, Planning and Zoning Commission Chairman. Published in RB Landmark August 10, 2022

PUBLIC NOTICE STATE OF ILLINOIS VILLAGE OF BROOKFIELD Notice of Public Hearing Village of Brookfield Planning and Zoning Commission August 25, 2022 at 7:00 PM NOTICE is hereby given that the Village of Brookfield Planning and Zoning Commission will conduct a public hearing on Thursday, August 25, 2022 at 7:00 p.m. in the Edward Barcal Hall located at 8820 Brookfield Avenue, Brookfield, Illinois to consider a request by the Village of Brookfield, as petitioner, for Text Amendments to Chapter 62 and Chapter 46 of the Village Code related to establishing a Temporary Use and Event Permit Application. The public is invited to attend the public hearing and present oral and/ or written comments. Written comments may be provided prior to 4:00 PM on the day of the public hearing to: Village of Brookfield, Planning and Zoning Commission c/o Kate Portillo, 8820 Brookfield Avenue, Brookfield, IL 60513, kportillo@brookfieldil.gov, or 708-485-1113. Oral or written testimony may be given during the public hearing. The application may be viewed at the Village of Brookfield Village Hall during normal business hours. Please reference PZC Case 22-05. Public hearings may be continued from time to time without further notice except as otherwise required under the Illinois Open Meetings Act. Individuals with disabilities requiring a reasonable accommodation in order to participate in any meeting should contact the Village of Brookfield (708) 485-7344 prior to the meeting. Wheelchair access is available through the front (South) entrance of Village Hall. By the Order of Chuck Grund, Planning and Zoning Commission Chairman. Published in RB Landmark August 10, 2022

PUIBLIC NOTICE PUBLIC NOTICE OAK PARK SCHOOL DISTRICT 97 NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING AUGUST 16, 2022 AT 7:00 PM The Board of Education of Oak Park Elementary School District 97 will hold a Public Hearing on Tuesday, August 16, 2022 at 7:00 pm. The purpose of said hearing will be: To receive public comment on a proposed waiver application to allow District 97 to limit physical education with a licensed physical education teacher to 60 minutes per week for students in kindergarten through ﬁfth grade.

Wednesday Journal, August 10, 2022

CLASSIFIED PUBLIC NOTICES PUBLIC NOTICE CALL FOR BIDS Notice is hereby given by the President and Board of Trustees of the Village of River Forest, Cook County, Illinois, that sealed bids will be accepted for: River Forest Buildings Demolition Project The River Forest Buildings Demolition Project consists of but is not limited to the demolition and lawful disposal of two existing two-story wood-framed residential buildings and their respective garages as well as a one-story brick commercial building and all contents. The project also consists of landscape restoration with topsoil and seed. The bidding documents available for download starting Friday, August 5, 2022 at: www.vrf.us/bids Bids must be submitted by Thursday, September 1, 2022 at 10:00 a.m. to: Village Hall – Administration Department, 2nd Floor Village of River Forest 400 Park Avenue River Forest, IL 60305 The bids will be publicly opened and read at that time. Bids will be considered not only on the basis of cost, but also on 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 August 10, 2022

REAL ESTATE FOR SALE IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF COOK COUNTY, ILLINOIS COUNTY DEPARTMENT - CHANCERY DIVISION JPMORGAN CHASE BANK, NATIONAL ASSOCIATION Plaintiff, -v.RASHINDA PLUMP, WAVERLY CLARK, JR, UNKNOWN OWNERS AND NON-RECORD CLAIMANTS, WAVERLY CLARK JR., INDEPENDENT ADMINISTRATOR Defendants 12 CH 25204 1187 SOUTH HIGHLAND PARK 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 December 11, 2019, an agent for The Judicial Sales Corporation, will at 10:30 AM on August 30, 2022, at The Judicial Sales Corporation, One South Wacker, 1st Floor Suite 35R, Chicago, IL, 60606, sell at a public sale to the highest bidder, as set forth below, the following described real estate: Commonly known as 1187 SOUTH HIGHLAND PARK, OAK PARK, IL 60304 Property Index No. 16-17-325-047-0000 The real estate is improved with a one

BY PHONE: (708) 613-3333 BY FAX: (708) 467-9066 BY E-MAIL: EMAIL@GROWINGCOMMUNITYMEDIA.ORG

REAL ESTATE FOR SALE

story two unit brick building with no garage. Sale terms: 25% down of the highest bid by certified funds at the close of the sale payable to The Judicial Sales Corporation. No third party checks will be accepted. The balance, including the Judicial Sale fee for the Abandoned Residential Property Municipality Relief Fund, which is calculated on residential real estate at the rate of $1 for each $1,000 or fraction thereof of the amount paid by the purchaser not to exceed $300, in certified funds/or wire transfer, is due within twenty-four (24) hours. No fee shall be paid by the mortgagee acquiring the residential real estate pursuant to its credit bid at the sale or by any mortgagee, judgment creditor, or other lienor acquiring the residential real estate whose rights in and to the residential real estate arose prior to the sale. The subject property is subject to general real estate taxes, special assessments, or special taxes levied against said real estate and is offered for sale without any representation as to quality or quantity of title and without recourse to Plaintiff and in “AS IS” condition. The sale is further subject to confirmation by the court. Upon payment in full of the amount bid, the purchaser will receive a Certificate of Sale that will entitle the purchaser to a deed to the real estate after confirmation of the sale. The property will NOT be open for inspection and plaintiff makes no representation as to the condition of the property. Prospective bidders are admonished to check the court file to verify all information. If this property is a condominium unit, the purchaser of the unit at the foreclosure sale, other than a mortgagee, shall pay the assessments and the legal fees required by The Condominium Property Act, 765 ILCS 605/9(g)(1) and (g)(4). If this property is a condominium unit which is part of a common interest community, the purchaser of the unit at the foreclosure sale other than a mortgagee shall pay the assessments required by The Condominium Property Act, 765 ILCS 605/18.5(g-1). IF YOU ARE THE MORTGAGOR (HOMEOWNER), YOU HAVE THE RIGHT TO REMAIN IN POSSESSION FOR 30 DAYS AFTER ENTRY OF AN ORDER OF POSSESSION, IN ACCORDANCE WITH SECTION 15-1701(C) OF THE ILLINOIS MORTGAGE FORECLOSURE LAW. You will need a photo identification issued by a government agency (driver’s license, passport, etc.) in order to gain entry into our building and the foreclosure sale room in Cook County and the same identification for sales held at other county venues where The Judicial Sales Corporation conducts foreclosure sales. MCCALLA RAYMER LEIBERT PIERCE, LLC Plaintiff’s Attorneys, One North Dearborn Street, Suite 1200, Chicago, IL, 60602. Tel No. (312) 346-9088. THE JUDICIAL SALES CORPORATION One South Wacker Drive, 24th Floor, Chicago, IL 60606-4650 (312) 236SALE You can also visit The Judicial Sales Corporation at www.tjsc.com for a 7 day status report of pending sales. MCCALLA RAYMER LEIBERT PIERCE, LLC One North Dearborn Street, Suite 1200 Chicago IL, 60602 312-346-9088 E-Mail: pleadings@mccalla.com Attorney File No. 20-05419IL_615363 Attorney ARDC No. 61256 Attorney Code. 61256 Case Number: 12 CH 25204 TJSC#: 42-2600 NOTE: Pursuant to the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act, you are advised that Plaintiff’s attorney is deemed to be

a debt collector attempting to collect a debt and any information obtained will be used for that purpose. Case # 12 CH 25204 I3199063

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, CODILIS & ASSOCIATES, P.C. Plaintiff’s Attorneys, 15W030 NORTH FRONTAGE ROAD, SUITE 100, BURR RIDGE, IL, 60527 (630) 794-9876 THE JUDICIAL SALES CORPORATION One South Wacker Drive, 24th Floor, Chicago, IL 60606-4650 (312) 236SALE You can also visit The Judicial Sales Corporation at www.tjsc.com for a 7 day status report of pending sales. 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. 14-22-01316 Attorney ARDC No. 00468002 Attorney Code. 21762 Case Number: 2019 CH 08117 TJSC#: 42-2262 NOTE: Pursuant to the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act, you are advised that Plaintiff’s attorney is deemed to be a debt collector attempting to collect a debt and any information obtained will be used for that purpose. Case # 2019 CH 08117 I3199280

real estate arose prior to the sale. The subject property is subject to general real estate taxes, special assessments, or special taxes levied against said real estate and is offered for sale without any representation as to quality or quantity of title and without recourse to Plaintiff and in “AS IS” condition. The sale is further subject to confirmation by the court. Upon payment in full of the amount bid, the purchaser will receive a Certificate of Sale that will entitle the purchaser to a deed to the real estate after confirmation of the sale. The property will NOT be open for inspection and plaintiff makes no representation as to the condition of the property. Prospective bidders are admonished to check the court file to verify all information. If this property is a condominium unit, the purchaser of the unit at the foreclosure sale, other than a mortgagee, shall pay the assessments and the legal fees required by The Condominium Property Act, 765 ILCS 605/9(g)(1) and (g)(4). If this property is a condominium unit which is part of a common interest community, the purchaser of the unit at the foreclosure sale other than a mortgagee shall pay the assessments required by The Condominium Property Act, 765 ILCS 605/18.5(g-1). IF YOU ARE THE MORTGAGOR (HOMEOWNER), YOU HAVE THE RIGHT TO REMAIN IN POSSESSION FOR 30 DAYS AFTER ENTRY OF AN ORDER OF POSSESSION, IN ACCORDANCE WITH SECTION 15-1701(C) OF THE ILLINOIS MORTGAGE FORECLOSURE LAW. You will need a photo identification issued by a government agency (driver’s license, passport, etc.) in order to gain entry into our building and the foreclosure sale room in Cook County and the same identification for sales held at other county venues where The Judicial Sales Corporation conducts foreclosure sales. For information, contact HEAVNER, BEYERS & MIHLAR, LLC Plaintiff’s Attorneys, 601 E. William St., DECATUR, IL, 62523 (217) 422-1719. Please refer to file number 402910. THE JUDICIAL SALES CORPORATION One South Wacker Drive, 24th Floor, Chicago, IL 60606-4650 (312) 236SALE You can also visit The Judicial Sales Corporation at www.tjsc.com for a 7 day status report of pending sales. HEAVNER, BEYERS & MIHLAR, LLC 601 E. William St. DECATUR IL, 62523 217-422-1719 Fax #: 217-422-1754 E-Mail: CookPleadings@hsbattys.com Attorney File No. 402910 Attorney Code. 40387 Case Number: 18 CH 08348 TJSC#: 41-2137 NOTE: Pursuant to the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act, you are advised that Plaintiff’s attorney is deemed to be a debt collector attempting to collect a debt and any information obtained will be used for that purpose. Case # 18 CH 08348 I3199894

2022 CH 00988 747 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 May 13, 2022, an agent for The Judicial Sales Corporation, will at 10:30 AM on September 19, 2022, at The Judicial Sales Corporation, One South Wacker, 1st Floor Suite 35R, Chicago, IL, 60606, sell at a public sale to the highest bidder, as set forth below, the following described real estate: Commonly known as 747 SOUTH HUMPHREY AVENUE, OAK PARK, IL 60304 Property Index No. 16-17-122-034-0000 The real estate is improved with a residence. Sale terms: 25% down of the highest bid by certified funds at the close of the sale payable to The Judicial Sales Corporation. No third party checks will be accepted. The balance, including the Judicial Sale fee for the Abandoned Residential Property Municipality Relief Fund, which is calculated on residential real estate at the rate of $1 for each $1,000 or fraction thereof of the amount paid by the purchaser not to exceed $300, in certified funds/or wire transfer, is due within twenty-four (24) hours. No fee shall be paid by the mortgagee acquiring the residential real estate pursuant to its credit bid at the sale or by any mortgagee, judgment creditor, or other lienor acquiring the residential real estate whose rights in and to the residential real estate arose prior to the sale. The subject property is subject to general real estate taxes, special assessments, or special taxes levied against said real estate and is offered for sale without any representation as to quality or quantity of title and without recourse to Plaintiff and in “AS IS” condition. The sale is further subject to confirmation by the court. Upon payment in full of the amount bid, the purchaser will receive a Certificate of Sale that will entitle the purchaser to a deed to the real estate after confirmation of the sale. The property will NOT be open for inspection and plaintiff makes no representation as to the condition of the property. Prospective bidders are admonished to check the court file to verify all information. If this property is a condominium unit, the purchaser of the unit at the foreclosure sale, other than a mortgagee, shall pay the assessments and the legal fees required by The Condominium Property Act, 765 ILCS 605/9(g)(1) and (g)(4). If this property is a condominium unit which is part of a common interest community, the purchaser of the unit at the foreclosure sale other than a mortgagee shall pay the assessments required by The Condominium Property Act, 765 ILCS 605/18.5(g-1). IF YOU ARE THE MORTGAGOR (HOMEOWNER), YOU HAVE THE RIGHT TO REMAIN IN POSSESSION FOR 30 DAYS AFTER ENTRY OF AN ORDER OF POSSESSION, IN ACCORDANCE WITH SECTION 15-1701(C) OF THE ILLINOIS MORTGAGE FORECLOSURE LAW. You will need a photo identification issued by a government agency (driver’s license, passport, etc.) in order to gain entry into our building and the foreclosure sale room in Cook County and the same identification for sales held at other county venues where The Judicial Sales Corporation conducts foreclosure sales. For information, examine the court file, CODILIS & ASSOCIATES, P.C. Plaintiff’s Attorneys, 15W030 NORTH FRONTAGE ROAD, SUITE 100, BURR RIDGE, IL, 60527 (630) 794-9876 THE JUDICIAL SALES CORPORATION

One South Wacker Drive, 24th Floor, Chicago, IL 60606-4650 (312) 236SALE You can also visit The Judicial Sales Corporation at www.tjsc.com for a 7 day status report of pending sales. 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. 14-22-00302 Attorney ARDC No. 00468002 Attorney Code. 21762 Case Number: 2022 CH 00988 TJSC#: 42-1923 NOTE: Pursuant to the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act, you are advised that Plaintiff’s attorney is deemed to be a debt collector attempting to collect a debt and any information obtained will be used for that purpose. Case # 2022 CH 00988 I3199376

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF COOK COUNTY, ILLINOIS COUNTY DEPARTMENT - CHANCERY DIVISION US BANK TRUST NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, NOT IN ITS INDIVIDUAL CAPACITY BUT SOLELY AS OWNER TRUSTEE FOR VRMTG ASSET TRUST Plaintiff, -v.ROSE M. BARRACO, BANK OF AMERICA, NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, OAK CONDOMINIUM ASSOCIATION, INC. Defendants 2019 CH 08117 405 S HOME AVE, #202 OAK PARK, IL 60302 NOTICE OF SALE PUBLIC NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale entered in the above cause on June 7, 2022, an agent for The Judicial Sales Corporation, will at 10:30 AM on September 9, 2022, at The Judicial Sales Corporation, One South Wacker, 1st Floor Suite 35R, Chicago, IL, 60606, sell at a public sale to the highest bidder, as set forth below, the following described real estate: Commonly known as 405 S HOME AVE, #202, OAK PARK, IL 60302 Property Index No. 16-07-323-048-1009 The real estate is improved with a residence. Sale terms: 25% down of the highest bid by certified funds at the close of the sale payable to The Judicial Sales Corporation. No third party checks will be accepted. The balance, including the Judicial Sale fee for the Abandoned Residential Property Municipality Relief Fund, which is calculated on residential real estate at the rate of $1 for each $1,000 or fraction thereof of the amount paid by the purchaser not to exceed $300, in certified funds/or wire transfer, is due within twenty-four (24) hours. No fee shall be paid by the mortgagee acquiring the residential real estate pursuant to its credit bid at the sale or by any mortgagee, judgment creditor, or other lienor acquiring the residential real estate whose rights in and to the residential real estate arose prior to the sale. The subject property is subject to general real estate taxes, special assessments, or special taxes levied against said real estate and is offered for sale without any representation as to quality or quantity of title and without recourse to Plaintiff and in “AS IS” condition. The sale is further subject to confirmation by the court. Upon payment in full of the amount bid, the purchaser will receive a Certificate of Sale that will entitle the purchaser to a deed to the real estate after confirmation of the sale. The property will NOT be open for inspection and plaintiff makes no representation as to the condition of the property. Prospective bidders are admonished to check the court file to verify all information. If this property is a condominium unit, the purchaser of the unit at the foreclosure sale, other than a mortgagee, shall pay the assessments and the legal fees required by The Condominium Property Act, 765 ILCS 605/9(g)(1) and (g)(4). If this property is a condominium unit which is part of a common interest community, the purchaser of the unit at the foreclosure sale other than a mortgagee shall pay the assessments required by The Condominium Property Act, 765 ILCS 605/18.5(g-1). IF YOU ARE THE MORTGAGOR (HOMEOWNER), YOU HAVE THE RIGHT TO REMAIN IN POSSESSION FOR 30 DAYS AFTER ENTRY

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF COOK COUNTY, ILLINOIS COUNTY DEPARTMENT - CHANCERY DIVISION NEW RESIDENTIAL MORTGAGE, LLC Plaintiff, -v.SARA DANKER, CORNERSTONE CONDOMINIUM ASSOCIATION, THE CORNERSTONE CONDOMINIUM, CITY OF OAK PARK Defendants 18 CH 08348 846 WESLEY AVE APT 2 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 13, 2020, an agent for The Judicial Sales Corporation, will at 10:30 AM on August 29, 2022, at The Judicial Sales Corporation, One South Wacker, 1st Floor Suite 35R, Chicago, IL, 60606, sell at a public sale to the highest bidder, as set forth below, the following described real estate: Commonly known as 846 WESLEY AVE APT 2, OAK PARK, IL 60304 Property Index No. 16-18-226-036-1012 The real estate is improved with a residential condominium. The judgment amount was $125,856.02. Sale terms: 25% down of the highest bid by certified funds at the close of the sale payable to The Judicial Sales Corporation. No third party checks will be accepted. The balance, including the Judicial Sale fee for the Abandoned Residential Property Municipality Relief Fund, which is calculated on residential real estate at the rate of $1 for each $1,000 or fraction thereof of the amount paid by the purchaser not to exceed $300, in certified funds/or wire transfer, is due within twenty-four (24) hours. No fee shall be paid by the mortgagee acquiring the residential real estate pursuant to its credit bid at the sale or by any mortgagee, judgment creditor, or other lienor acquiring the residential real estate whose rights in and to the residential

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF COOK COUNTY, ILLINOIS COUNTY DEPARTMENT - CHANCERY DIVISION DEUTSCHE BANK NATIONAL TRUST COMPANY, AS TRUSTEE FOR THE REGISTERED HOLDERS OF MORGAN STANLEY ABS CAPITAL I INC. TRUST 2007-HE7 MORTGAGE PASSTHROUGH CERTIFICATES, SERIES 2007-HE7 Plaintiff, -v.GARY HOLMAN, ILLINOIS HOUSING DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY Defendants

EQUAL HOUSING OPPORTUNITY All real estate advertising in this newspaper is subject to the Fair Housing Act, which makes it illegal to advertise any preference, limitation or discrimination based on age, race, color, religion, sex, handicap, familial status or national origin, or intention to make any such preferences, limitations or discrimination. The Illinois Human Rights Act prohibits discrimination in the sale, rental or advertising of real estate based on factors in addition to those protected under federal law. This newspaper will not knowingly accept any advertising for real estate which is in violation of the law. All persons are hereby informed that all dwellings advertised are available on an equal opportunity basis. Restrictions or prohibitions of pets do not apply to service animals. To complain of discrimination, call HUD toll free at: 1-800669-9777. GROWING COMMUNITY MEDIA

Wednesday Journal, August 10, 2022

OAKPARK.COM | RIVERFOREST.COM

SOLD

726 PARK, RIVER FOREST :: $579,000 :: 3 BED, 2.5 BATH Classic center entrance colonial in mint condition, with beautiful screened-in porch

HISTORIC BEAUTY

139 S GROVE, OAK PARK $1,179,000 :: 6 BED :: 4.5 BATH

Majestic Victorian in central Oak Park Historic District

KATHY & TONY IWERSEN

SOLD

846 KENILWORTH, OAK PARK $674,000 :: 4 BED :: 2.5 BATH

American Four Square, a great family home

708.772.8040 708.772.8041 tonyiwersen@atproperties.com