Wednesday Journal 092822

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What happens when cash bail ends?

As task force works to ready justice system, amendments could be forthcoming

By JERRY NOWICKI Capitol News Illinois

Beginning Jan. 1, 2023, cash bail will be abolished in Illinois.

The measure that will eliminate it has been on the books since early 2021, giving the justice system two years to plan for the major overhaul of the state’s pretrial detention system.

It’s also given time for the measure to become politicized to a point where the reality of the law has become indistinguishable from the political rhetoric surrounding it

“As I’ve said many times, what we want to

make sure doesn’t happen is that someone who’s wealthy and commits a terrible violent crime – it could be, by the way, a wealthy drug dealer – doesn’t have an easy time getting bail compared to somebody who maybe commits shoplifting and for a couple of hundred dollars is stuck in jail,” Gov. J.B. Pritzker said at a news conference in August.

But opponents and advocates of the reform agree that, beyond simply ending cash bail, the law seeks to reduce the number of people incarcerated before a guilty verdict by limiting the circumstances in which a judge can order pretrial detention.

Republicans and state’s attorneys have continued to fight for changes to the law, up

to a full repeal, arguing that while the intent may be to empower judges to detain more dangerous individuals, the bill as written is too limiting

A nonpartisan task force for med under the Supreme Court, meanwhile, is working to assist with implementation in the justice system ahead of Jan. 1 and has identified unclear or contradictory sections of the bill that lawmakers should reconsider before Jan. 1.

“It is frustrating because many aspects of the statute are not clear,” retired Judge Robbin Stuckert, who chairs the Pretrial Implementation Task Force, said at a July town hall meeting. “They may be vague, gray areas. And again, we are charged by

the Supreme Court to assist with implementation.”

The law’s sponsors in the General Assembly said they are working with the task force on legislation clarifying some of those matters – particularly when it comes to detainable offenses – for potential passage this fall.

Pretrial detention

The provision to end cash bail, known as the Pretrial Fair ness Act, was included in the SAFE-T Act criminal justice reform passed in a January 2021 lame duck session.

Anything but ordinary.

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e racial wealth gap and the roads less traveled

The Canadian professor and author Thomas Homer-Dixon teaches that a major characteristic of complex systems is path dependence.

“Once a complex system goes down a particular path, it can’t easily jump from one path to another or retrace its steps to try a different path,” Homer-Dixon writes

The famous Robert Frost poem, “The Road Not Taken,” is a great example of this dynamic.

“Two roads diverged in a wood, and I — I took the one less traveled by, and that has made all the dif ference,” so ends the poem.

per capita wealth ratio fell to 10 to 1 by 1920, and to 7 to 1 by the 1950s,” the authors show.

This may seem like progress and, to a significant degree, it is. The authors show that “Black wealth growth outpaced that of white Americans’ between 1870 and 1930.”

But that pace is still sluggish and lags “far behind what would be expected had the two groups enjoyed equal conditions for wealth accumulation,” meaning equal opportunity under the law.

ROMAIN

Frost’s real message, Homer-Dixon argues, is “much more disturbing and, in the end, poignant” than the conclusion many people often come to, that the poem is a demonstration of why it’s important to stand out from the crowd.

More importantly, Frost is “telling us that a choice that appears insignificant can ‘make all the difference,’ and that there may be no going back.”

A series of studies published this year have shown the degree to which racial progress in this country, particularly when evaluated in terms of economic equity, is remarkably path dependent.

America definitely took the road less traveled by after the Civil War, as W.E.B. Du Bois pointed out in 1901 in The Ne gro Landholder of Georgia.

“Thus, the efforts to provide the freedman with land and tools ended, and by 1870 he was left to shift for himself amid new and dangerous social surroundings. No such curious and reckless experiment in emancipation has been made in modern times.”

That Du Bois quotation floats over the introduction section of Wealth of Two Nations: The U.S. Racial Wealth Gap, 18602020, published in June by the National Bureau of Economic Research.

The authors — Ellora Derenoncourt, Chi Hyun Kim, Moritz Kuhn and Moritz Schularick — have constructed what they call the “first continuous series on white-toBlack per capita wealth ratios from 1860 to 2020, drawing on historical census data, early state tax records, and historical waves of the Survey of Consumer Finances, among other sources.”

Their data is novel because it shows how the racial wealth gap has evolved since Emancipation when most Blacks went from essentially being wealth (enslaved people were, after all, someone’s property) to being persons entitled under law to own wealth.

There was an initial “rapid convergence,” meaning the wealth gap between Blacks and whites shrunk, in the first 50 years after the Civil War, from the 1860s to the 1910s.

“From a starting point of nearly 60 to 1, the white-to-Black

“The historical record is rife with instances of expropriation of Black wealth, exclusion of Black Americans from the political process, and legally sanctioned segregation and discrimination in land, labor, and capital markets,” the authors write. “All these factors likely contributed to sluggish convergence over this period.”

Seventy years later, the study shows, the wealth gap is at 7 to 1, essentially stuck at the level it had been in the 1950s

“In 2019, Black Americans had just 17 cents on average for every white dollar of wealth,” the authors write. “By comparison, the income gap is 50 cents to the dollar. What’s more, the racial wealth gap has shown remarkable stability over the last several decades, with little indication of further convergence.”

This historic, systemic and ongoing theft animates Du Bois’ 1901 statement that “no such curious and reckless experiment in emancipation has been made in modern times.”

The economist Thomas Picketty summarizes the “curious and reckless experiment” in his Brief History of Equality

“In the last months of the [Civil War], in January 1865, the Norther ners promised the emancipated slaves that after the war was won, they would each receive ‘forty acres and a mule.’ The idea was to motivate them to join the fight, to compensate them for decades of unpaid labor, and to permit them to tur n toward a future as free workers.

“Had it been adopted, this program would have represented an agrarian redistribution of great scope, at the expense, especially, of major slaveholders,” Picketty writes “But as soon as the fighting stopped, the promise was forgotten; no law providing for compensation was ever passed, and ‘forty acres and a mule’ became a symbol of Norther ners’ deception and hypocrisy.”

Indeed, not only were Blacks not reco gnized as full citizens until a full century after the Civil War, the slaveholding South was, in ef fect, rewarded for its treason.

White souther ners would come to dominate national politics for much of the 20th century, even influencing Roosevelt’s progressive New Deal — a legislative monument that, while beneficial to Blacks in many respects, largely excluded them from some of its most

important provisions like access to af fordable housing, a key source of wealth.

A study published in June by the Brookings Institution shows just how dynamic and persistent the racial wealth gap can be for individuals throughout their lives.

In Stuck on the Ladder: Intragenerational Wealth Mobility in the United States, authors Ariel Gelrud Shiro, Christopher Pulliam, John Sabelhaus and Ember Smith show that the racial wealth gap is a tremendous burden to individual Blacks

“For those with median wealth in their early thirties, Black Americans fall to the 38th wealth percentile in their late fifties while white Americans rise to the 57th wealth percentile in their late fifties,” the authors write.

“We find similar patter ns by educational attainment and income level,” they add. “In total, our results point to flexible wealth dynamics early in adulthood that subsequently solidify and reinforce existing race and class inequalities.”

Interestingly, the Wealth of Two Nations authors find that a major factor in the racial wealth gap, particularly since the 1980s, have been the “high wealth-to-income ratios and portfolio dif ferences between Black and white Americans.”

Black households hold nearly two-thirds of their wealth in housing and not much in stock equity, the latter of which “has appreciated by five times as much” since 1950.

“These large price increases in equity markets have led to disproportionate capital gains for the wealthiest Americans, a group that is almost exclusively whit e,” the authors note

“Gains for wealthy white households have caused average white wealth to rise relative to average Black wealth, linking the evolution of the racial wealth gap to the overall rise in wealth inequality in the U.S.”

The idea of path dependence naturally invites counterfactual thinking.

What if John Wilkes Booth missed and Abraham Lincoln lived to serve out his second ter m, possibly extending Reconstruction by some years or at least making re parations for the for merly enslaved a higher priority than retur ning to the slaveholding South its antebellum glory, a process facilitated by Andrew Johnson (a for mer souther n senator)?

What if Blacks after the Civil War were treated less like a caste and more like white settlers; perhaps, even, denied strict monetary re parations but at least given equal rights to property and equal protection under the law?

What if during the New Deal, Blacks weren’ t excluded from the welfare provisions and gover nment housing gifted to whites?

Any of these roads, if taken, may have led to the elimination of the racial wealth gap in our lifetimes (if not to the elimination of wealth inequality in general), or perhaps to a much cooler social and political climate than the currently combustible one we’re living in today

But like Frost’s traveler, we’ ll never know. There is no going back into the past.

We can, however, do better going forward.

What if John Wilkes Booth missed and Abraham Lincoln lived to ser ve out his second term, possibly ex tending Reconstruc tion by some years or at least making reparations for the formerly enslaved a higher priorit y?

Monday, Oc t.

The Symphony of Oak Park & River Forest

Sunday, Oc t. 2, 4 p.m., Concordia University Chapel

The symphony opens its 91st season with per formances of Brahms’ ”Piano Concer to No. 1” (Winston Choi, soloist) and Tchaikovsky’s “Symphony No. 2.” There will be a pre-concer t conversation. $30 (Concordia students free). 7400 Augusta St., River Forest.

Andrew Sa/Paisley Fields

Saturday, Oc t. 1, 7 p.m., FitzGerald’s Two legends of the “queer countr y” subgenre per form on the FitzGerald’s patio. 6615 Roosevelt Road, Berw yn.

The 1619 Projec t: Family & Community Circles

Sunday, Oc t. 2, 2-3:30 p.m., Oak Park Public Librar y

This is an ongoing series of interac tive community discussions inspired by The 1619 Projec t. This is a safe, struc tured, anti-racist space where all are empowered to share personal stories, honor our histor y, and grow in hope. Trained adult facilitators will lead the discussion circles alongside middle school, high school, and college students. Due to the struc ture of the discussion circles, please tr y to arrive on time. This week: “Born On The Water.” Recommended for ages 8+ and adults. Register now for any or all sessions at oppl.org/calendar. 834 Lake St., Oak Park

Author Visit: Elayne Audrey Becker

Saturday, Oc t. 1, 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m., Oak Park Public Librar Audrey Elayne Becker will discuss her latest book, Wildbound. Register now at //oppl.org/calendar. 834 Lake St., Oak Park

WDCB Bluesday Tuesday with John Primer

Tuesday, Oc t. 4, 7 p.m., FitzGerald’s This weekly blues showcase, hosted by radio DJ Tom Marker, returns with singer and blues guitarist extraordinaire John Primer. 6615 Roosevelt Road, Berw yn.

Kent Rose & the Remedies

Sunday, Oc t. 2, 11:30 a.m., FitzGerald’s Kent Rose recently rocked the FitzGerald’s patio for a private wedding reception. Today he returns to the same scene to rock the general audience with his mix of traditional country and rockabilly. 6615 Roosevelt Road, Berw yn.

Amore Enter tains

Monday, Oc t. 3, 1:15-2:15 p.m., Nineteenth Centur y Charitable Association

Vince Amore sings the songs of Frank Sinatra, Tony B ennett and other crooners. 178 Forest Ave., Oak Park.

literacy teacher, award a rms hard work

Joys and challenges of leveling up reading in middle school

By JAMIE O’TOOLE Contributing Reporter

Nora Flynn is a literacy specialist at Percy Julian Middle School. And she says it is not a secret in Oak Park’s District 97 public schools that Black and Brown students are overrepresented in “striving readers” groups.

But there is progress being made and having their teacher receive the 2022 Barack Obama Library Award from the Illinois Reading Council is, she says, affirmation both for herself and her students.

That, she says, is why she nominated her self for the award.

Flynn said teachers tend to say, “they do it for the kids” and wish to keep the pr of students quiet because it’s not always something students want public while that’s important, it’s also important to acknowledge your work as their teacher and the work of the students

“I think it’s really important that start talking about that and say, this award,’” Flynn said who is a member of the Illinois Reading Council

The prize for winning the honor is a $1,000 collection of books that represent Black and Brown characters and cultures. T tion has allowed her “striving readers” to make deeper connections and find content

Like all medical procedures, not the treatment. A qualified practitioner evaluating each subject’s suitability informing those being treated treatment, pre-and postoperative information.

Cynosure,

sure,

Cynosure,

ALEX ROGALS/Sta Photographer

Nora Flynn, outside at Percy Julian Middle School in Oak Park, recently won the 2022 Barack Obama Library Award.

Dominican shuttle involved in vehicle collision

University bus crashes into a nearby home

By STACEY SHERIDAN Staff Reporter

Patt Chase and her husband were enjoy ing their morning at home on what seemed like a normal day for the retired River est couple. Chase’s husband was out back feeding the birds that wait for him on the porch railing each day, while Chase was eating a bagel in the breakfast room. Their peaceful morning was inter rupted, however, when a bus ran into the front of their home shor tly before 8 a.m., Monday.

“My husband comes in from the back porch and I turned to him and said, ‘There’s a bus in our house,’” Chase recalled.

Because she can be “somewhat of a card,” she was not surprised her husband thought she was merely kidding. Reality set in when he walked to their front door.

A Dominican University shuttle bus had crashed into their home in the 800 block of Bonnie Brae Place, leaving a 6-by-8-foot hole in front.

The bus had been traveling northbound on Bonnie Brae when it crashed into a westbound vehicle on Chicago Avenue, according to both the university and the River Forest Police Department. That collision is thought to have caused the shuttle bus to careen further north on Bonnie Brae, driving up on lawns and until it ultimately hit the Chases’ home.

The bus was driven by a four-year uni-

versity employee, who was taking to a nearby hospital, where he is still hospitalized for non-life-threatening injuries. The driver of the other vehicle was also taken to a nearby hospital. The condition of that driver is unknown at this time

A student, the sole passenger on the bus, sustained a minor hand injury, but de-

ALEX ROGALS/Sta Photographer

clined to be taken to the hospital. University officials met with the student, who re turned to campus the day of the accident.

Neither Chase nor her husband, who is re covering from back surgery, were physically harmed, although their home sustained significant damage.

The cause of the accident is being inves-

tigated by the River Forest Police Depart ment. A preliminary examination found that the driver of the shuttle, according to River Forest Police Chief Jim O’Shea, likely hit the other vehicle.

“Dominican University is cooperating fully with the River Forest Police Depart ment’s investigation of this incident. Our prayers and thoughts are with everyone involved,” said university spokesperson Jennifer Johnson.

Neighbors have rallied around the Chases, bringing food and offering support. One of the neighbors happens to be a nurse, ac cording to Patt Chase, and has been routinely checking in on her husband to see that his recovery is not hampered by the disar ray caused by the crash. Another neighbor brought apple cider.

“The nicest people in the world live on this block,” she said.

The hole in the front of the Chases’ house has been boarded up. Building officials from the village of River Forest came by to make sure the house was safe. Insurance officials have also been called.

The damage, however, makes it unlikely that Chase and her husband will be able to put their home up for sale this spring as planned. The couple’s recent and considerable landscaping work was flattened as well.

Chase has been crying on and off since the crash due to the shock of it all. She knows the situation could have been much worse.

“Thank the lord we were not in the front room,” she said. “If we were in the living room, we would not be sitting here talking.”

In-person meetings with tech options soon at OP Village Hall

Village board and commission meetings will be live and on screen

By STACEY SHERIDAN Staff Reporter

Oak Park Village President Vicki Scaman expects the village board and its commissions to return to in-person meetings sometime next month. A definitive date has not yet been determined, but she believes that the village board will return to council chambers by mid-October.

“My preference would be sooner than later, but we are prioritizing being able to maximize the benefits of hybrid for the

benefit of the community and guests to the meetings,” she said.

That prioritization has contributed to the delay in returning to meeting in person. The village, according to Scaman, has been updating its technology to allow guest speakers to use Zoom during in-person village meetings.

The technological updates will also allow for all in-person commission meetings to be recorded and streamed live. Prior to the pandemic, meeting footage was only available for a handful of commissions due to

limited equipment and meeting room space at village hall. Meeting virtually gave the village the ability to record all of its commission meetings, boosting the accessibility of commission meetings. To continue being able to do that while also meeting in person requires more modern technology than the village hall previously had.

While many have enjoyed the convenience of meeting virtually, Scaman looks forward to returning to council chambers. For some, it will be a completely new experience. Aside from their swearing in

ceremony in 2021, Trustees Ravi Parakkat, Lucia Robinson and Chibuike Enyia have only ever experienced virtual board meetings.

Oak Park residents can continue to watch the village board meetings live on Channel 6 on cable or by streaming meetings from mobile devices, as they had before the pandemic. But the village president hopes people will choose to go to village hall and attend them in person.

“I’m hoping to see some of the residents that were re gulars come back,” she said.

Oak Park reviews 11 village trustee applicants

Village president also considering people who did not apply

By STACEY SHERIDAN Staff Reporter

Eleven people have submitted applications to Oak Park Village President Vicki Scaman for the village trustee seat vacated over the summer by Ar ti Walker-Pedda kotla. The person appointed will serve out the remainder of Walker-Peddakotla’s ter m, which ends this April. Those who have applied are not the only people being considered by Scaman, who hopes to ap point someone by Oct. 3.

“The application process was for me to open [consideration] up to people that I may not know,” she said. “I do retain the right to potentially appoint somebody who did not submit an application.”

Scaman said she has infor mally met with a few people to gauge their interest in the appointment but declined to give any names.

Wednesday Jour nal obtained the names of those that did apply, as well as their applications, through a public records re quest. The applications have not yet been viewed by any sitting trustees, according to Scaman. Some applications took up multiple pages, while other applicants were briefer in their responses.

The application for Dante Allen, a 25-year member of the Illinois Ar my National Guard who would like to continue serving his state as an appointed trustee, was only half a page long, while attor ney Mark Dunham Jr submitted just a professional resume.

Some of the contenders are familiar names within the community, but others may not be so reco gnizable Simone Boutet, a for mer village trustee, has ap plied. Boutet last ran for village president in the April 2021 election, but the community may remember her being the candidate who dropped out of the race and then reentered, only to drop out again a few months later

As for her potential retur n to the village board, Boutet is now in competition with Ste phen Morales, who was a village trust-

ee candidate attached to her slate, along with Trustees Ravi Parakkat and Lucia Robinson. Unlike Parakkat and Robinson, Morales did not win a seat on the village board in 2021.

Morales has served on two of the vil lage’s citizen commissions – the Community Development Citizen Advisory Committee and the Energ y and Environment Commission. He also is the chair of Thrive Counseling Center and has been a member of its board since 2017. He wrote in his ap plication that he is proud of Thrive’s par tnership with Oak Park’s police and fire de part ments.

If appointed, his first priority, according to his application, is to get the “voices of our citizens into our village budget for 2023,” while his second priority is community safety. He also listed sustainability, a major platform of his trustee campaign, as an “existential priority.”

Mas Takiguchi, a past candidate for vil lage trustee, also applied for the post. He said he hopes to lend his experience and input to the board as both a resident and as a member of the Asian community. Taki guchi has lived in Oak Park since 1988 and has served as the chair of both the Oak Park Residence Corporation and the vil lage’s Board of Fire and Police Commissioners His priorities include gover nment transparency, safety and equal access

Another applicant is Rev. John Edger ton, lead pastor of First United Church of Oak Park and president of the Community of Cong re gations Edg er ton found himself in the limelight this past spring for his church’s “fast from whiteness”

Lenten theme. Reactions to the fast were mixed; the church re ceived support, criticism and harassment for it

Edger ton’s application states he believes strongly in the impor tance of elections and, therefore, does not intend to seek a full-ter m should he be appointed.

“I would seek to be a responsible public servant until the voters can elect a leader,”

he wrote

Other applicants include for mer Mann Elementary School PTA member Steven Shaw who is an executive director of a non-profit but has also worked in the private sector, where, according to his application, he led af fordable housing development projects, managed budgets and worked with le gislative bodies. He hopes to leverage that experience to make Oak Park a more sustainable and equitable community as a whole

“Significant issues can rarely be suf ficiently ad dressed in a policy silo, so combining workforce with sustainability is a way to not only promote job creation, but also position Oak Park as an innovation leader within the broader re gion,” Shaw wrote in his application.

“In addition, good work force policy should foster the growth of small businesses, and given the village’s racial diversity, we can be a prime destination for diverse entrepreneurs,” he wrote.

He believes that the fundamental role of village trustees is to “represent the best interests of the citizens of Oak Park” by making “infor med and timely decisions that will help local residents and busi nesses and thrive. ”

Boonstra has previous local govern ment experience in Michig an, where he has a second home He stated in his ap plication that he has been leading ef forts and ne gotiating on the behalf of citizens looking to be annexed into the Village of Decatur, Mich Boonstra also wrote that he has been working with Decatur village staf f to g et them authorized for state funding to of fset the cost of annexation and installation of water and sewer lines.

Longfellow Elementary School PTA member Russell Hall lear ned about the trustee opening through Wednesday Jour nal.

VICKI SC AMA N Oak Park Village President

Shawn Jose ph serves on Beyond Hunger ’s board of directors and is most inter ested in policymaking re garding sustainability, safety and diversity. He wrote in his application that his dedication to the community makes him uniquely quali fied to serve as an appointed trustee Jo se ph is also a parishioner and volunteer of St. Giles Catholic Church

“No one is truly qualified but must have a de gree of passion for such work and possess a de gree of intelligence to remain a fiduciary of the Village of Oak Park,” Jose ph wrote in his application.

In his wo rk with Beyond Hunger, Jo se ph’s application states that the food pantry has under taken a large diversity, equity and inclusion project.

Timothy Boonstra, an executive at Dutch Far ms Inc., has only lived in Oak Park for two years but has been very involved in school meetings and volunteer activities and has been active in his neighborhood and in Park District of Oak Park progr amming, according to his ap plication.

He believes the role of the trustee is to direct funding toward projects and initiatives that are in line with the goals of the public as advocated for by constituents.

Chiropractor Mahmoud

Lotfi wishes to support the village presi dent and trustees in setting policies to ensure community safety, af fordabilit y, equity and COVID-19 b usiness recovery. He wants to help “build a community re presentative of the world.” He provides inter nships to Dominican University students and mentors his staf f, many of whom were educated in local Oak Park schools

Marseil Jackson also listed mentorship in her application. She currently mentors a group of Oak Park and River Forest High School students involved in the youth entrepreneurship progr am, which she also created

Jackson supports the village’s ef for ts to create a non-police emergency response team and believes the conversation sur rounding racial equity must move away from “archaic, worn out” policies and practices that contributed to inequity by intentionally and continually reevaluating and changing laws and structures

VICKI SC AMAN

SIMONE BOUTET

“I do retain the right to potentially appoint somebody who did not submit an application.”

Flowers is rst OPRF grad to make NFL active roster since 1990

After a long and winding road, Huskies’ standout lands with Colts

By BOB SKOLNIK Contributing Reporter

Dallis Flowers has become the first graduate of Oak Park and River Forest High School to make a National Football League team’s active roster since Eric Kumerow played three seasons with the Miami Dolphins in 1988, 1989 and 1990.

Unlike Kumerow, who was a first-round draft pick by the Dolphins in 1988 and played college football at Ohio State, Flowers took a long, circuitous and unlikely route to making the regular season roster for the Indianapolis Colts.

Flowers, a cornerback and kick returner, played at four little-known colleges and went undrafted in April’s NFL draft. He signed as undrafted free agent with the Colts, went to their training camp and made the team -- helped immeasurably by a 53-yard kickoff return in the Colts’ final preseason game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.

“The moment was surreal,” said Flowers of learning that he had survived the final cut and make the team. “Blessed fo r the opportunity to be here and do the things that I love to do. I know I put in the time and the work, so I mean to me, I wasn’t surprised. I know I belonged here. You can look at the film, it pretty much shows it. You know film don’t lie.”

Flowers, a 2015 graduate of OPRF who is now 25, had to rely on film to get noticed because few NFL scouts attend the games at the four universities where Flowers played

At OPRF, Flowers was a standout in both football and basketball, and he started his college career playing both football and basketball at Robert Morris University before moving on to Division II Tiffin University for a semester and one football season.

When Tiffin fired its basketball coach, reducing Flowers scholarship to 50 percent, he transferred to Grand View Uni versity, a small NAIA school in Des Moines where his brother Brennen was playing football.

He played football and basketball both in his first year at Grand View, but with the encouragement of his brother quit basketball for focus on football. Last year, he finished his college career last year at Division II Pittsburg State University in Kansas.

Flowers was a NAIA All American at Grand View and last season made four interceptions and ran back two kick of fs for touchdowns for a Pittsburg State Gorillas team that finished 11-3.

As an undrafted free agent from a small school, Flowers

A 53-yard kicko retur n dur ing a preseason game against Tampa helped cement a spot on the Colts’ roster for Dallis Flowers ( far le ).

heard from plenty of doubters. He said that’s nothing new, he’s been underestimated his whole life

“That just keeps me going,” Flowers said. “That just keeps a chip on my shoulder.”

The Colts coaches liked his potential. Flowers made 10 tackles, seven solo, in the preseason games, but it was his cover skills and kick return ability that won him a place on the roster.

“Dallis has really good physical cover skills,” said Colts head coach Frank Reich in a comment emailed to Wednesday Journal. “Some guys are real skilled cover guys, and he demonstrated that consistently to show and flash talent that [he] can cover one-on-one. We like his return ability. So, excited to have him on the roster.”

Although Flowers is on the Colts’ 53-man active roster, he has yet to suit up for a regular season game since only 47 play ers can be active for each game and Flowers has been made inactive for the first three regular season games of the season.

“I’m part of the 53,” Flowers said. “So, I mean I’m really just trying to, you know, work my way up.”

But Flowers has been on the Colts’ sideline during regular season games, including the Sept. 26 upset of the Kansas City Chiefs

“I’m just blessed to be there, taking everything in, the atmosphere but, I mean, it’s not going to be long for me to suit up and get on the field,” Flowers said.

At OPRF Flowers was a standout point guard for the OPRF basketball team and a wide receiver, cornerback and kick re turner for the OPRF football team. At first, he seemed to prefer basketball.

OPRF football coach John Hoerster loved Flowers’ speed and quickness and schemed to find ways to get the ball in his hands.

“I would say that Dallis is probably one of the most dynamic athletes that I’ve coached,” Hoerster said.

A couple of other recent OPRF graduates also have come close to making an NFL active roster Wide receiver Sim mie Cobbs, who graduated from OPRF in 2014, one year be fore Flowers, and played colle ge football at Indiana, made it to the final cuts in Washington, spending most of the 2018 season on the team’s practice squad. Cobbs also made it to the final cut with the New Orleans Saints in 2019. In 2020, Cobbs made it to the final cuts on XFL Dallas Rene gades.

This year for a couple weeks, Flowers and childhood friend Jared Scott were teammates on the Colts. Scott, a 2017 OPRF graduate and like Flowers an undrafted free agent who played football at multiple colle ges, made it to the final cuts this season with the Carolina Panthers.

After being cut by the Panthers on Aug. 23 the Colts signed Scott to their practice squad. It was a reunion for Flowers and Scott, who have known each other and played sports together as kids in Oak Park.

Once Flowers made the team, he got an apar tment and Scott stayed with him. But on Sept. 20 Scott was cut from the Colts practice squad. Scott told Wednesday Jour nal that he was flying to Green Bay on Sept. 27 for a workout with the Packers this week.

Oak Park native Robert Spillane, who graduated from Fenwick High School in 2014 made it the NFL as an undrafted free agent, has played linebacker for the Pittsburgh Steelers for the last four seasons

Flowers hopes to build an NFL career as Spillane is do ing. When he was a kid, he wanted to play in either the NFL or NBA.

Despite playing at little known colle ges, he never lost sight of his goal. He kept working and believing that he could make it even with others thought it was an unrealistic dream.

“Hard work and dedication; that’s really been my whole life,” Flowers said.

COURTEST Y OF THE INDIANAPOLIS CO LTS

Cook County Clerk calls on veterans to be election workers

Yarbrough says there’s a ‘serious shor tage’ of judges and poll workers

By MICHAEL ROMAIN Staff Reporter

Cook County Clerk Karen Yarbrough, whose office runs elections in suburban Cook County, is calling on mili tary veterans to sign up as elec tion judges and poll workers in the Nov. 8 Gubernatorial Elec tion.

“We have a serious shor ofjudges and poll work Clerk Yarbrough said during a press conference on Sept. 20. “We’ve seen our number ofelec tion judges shrink significantly in recent years.”

Yarbrough said the number of poll workers has fallen by percent over the last eight she has about 4,000 people who have indicated their availability to work on Election Day but she needs at least 7,000 to cover ev ery open position.

Polling place technicians make $365 and election judges make $200 for their day-long service. Anyone interested in working the polls can apply at cookcountyclerk.com/ work.

Yarbrough explained that the pandemic and age are contributing to the reduction in polling workers in suburban Cook County She said the average election judge is be tween 65 and 70 years old.

The clerk said 4,500 election judges

showed up for service on Election Day in June compared to more than 7,100 judges who worked on Election Day in the 2018 midterm election — the last midterm be fore the COVID-19 pandemic.

She said the dearth ofelection workers is a problem across the nation, before pointing out that “an estimated 130,000 poll workers have stopped serving over the past three midterm elections across the nation.”

Yarbrough said the idea to reach out to veterans came after she realized just how much the county clerk’s office interacts with them through the Veterans Service Office in Chicago.

“These are tough times for democracy and those in the veterans’ community took many years out oftheir lives to fight for this democracy and we’re asking you to fight for this democracy again by serving on Election Day,” said Brian Cross, the head ofthe Veterans Ser-

Ed Michalowski, the deputy clerk of elections, said while the clerk’s office saw about 70 percent of voters cast their ballots before Election Day by voting early or through the mail in the 2020 General Election and 2021 Consolidated Election, Election Day operations are still important.

He said the clerk’s office has reduced the number ofprecincts to keep up with worker shor tages, but they still need to meet their goal of more than 7,100 workers to avoid overloading existing poll workers.

“Ifthere’s one person in a precinct, we’re putting a heavy weight of democracy on their shoulders,” Michalowski said.

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Owen Shaker Petrzelka’s short and inspiring life

‘Tell them I’m happy’

By JAMIE O’TOOLE Contributing Reporter

Family, friends and neighbors will gather Oct. 1 to celebrate the short life of Owen Kemper Shaker Petrzelka and to remember his inspiring mantra. “Tell them I’m happy.”

Owen died Oct. 6, 2020 at the age of 6 after a six-month battle with diffuse intrinsic pontine glioma (DIPG), a rare and incurable brain tumor.

The third annual event combines a virtual 5K and a block party on the 900 block of North Grove where he grew up and his family still lives.

Owen’s 5K is a part of the ChadTough Defeat DIPG Foundation RunTough 5K. The event is organized to support the foundation’s ef fort to fund research of effective treatments for DIPG and defeat childhood brain tumors.

Petrzelka’s family organizes the annual 5K in his memory to benefit the founda-

tion. Participants can complete the 5K whene however they wish, said Amanda Shaker, mother of Petrzelka.

“I have a girlfriend in Italy running it. I have friends in Hawaii who are kayaking. I have a friend in Boston who does paddleboarding,” Shaker said. “So it’s flexible.”

Those interested in participating can re gister at www. teamowen.org. Those who wish to donate can do so there, too. Over 400 runners have signed up for the 5K, according to a Sept. 15 news release.

OWEN KEMPER SHAKER PETRZELK A

search funding.

DIPG affects an estimated children each year S. and Europe, and for roughly 10-15% of brain tumors in children, to the release

“Parents should not have bury their child, and then cate for funds or aware,” Shaker said.

ears after her son’s passing, Shaker said she’s a completely different person.

“It is very hard to establish your family as a family of five and try to now live as a f amily of four,” she said.

ach, and if his head hurts. ‘Can you raise your arm?’ the doctor would ask. ‘Is it difficult to swallow?’” Shaker said Owen’s response would be ‘tell them I’m happy.’

“I try to remind myself that he was faced with the worst possible disease. And he was able to find great joy,” Shaker said.

Julie Spyrison, the mother of Owen Petrzelka’s best friend Ronan, has played a part in planning the block party and promoting the 5K on social media. She said in addition to reaching out to local schools for their involvement, she sets up a table at the Oak Park Far mers Market every Saturday to raise awareness and in crease donations.

The 5K does not need to be completed on Oct. 1, Shaker said. She will complete the 5K a week before by walking. Her husband and daughter will run it and her youngest son will “drive us crazy,” Shaker said.

Shaker said it’s unfair that DIPG and pediatric cancer with an emphasis on brain tumors receives just 4% of government re

She said that when she is having a hard day, she tries to remember what Owen always used to say: “Tell them I’m happy.” She even has it tattooed on her ar m.

“When [Owen’s] oncologist would call, I would say, ‘She wants to know how you’ re feeling,’ and he would say, ‘tell them I’m happy,’” Shaker said.

“His doctor would ask about his stom-

Although Owen Petrzelka is no longer living, Spyrison said her son remembers the spirit of Owen and their f amily c ontinues to call him their guardian angel.

“My goal in life is for us to never forg et him,” Spyrison said. “We want to maintain [Owen’s] memory and make sure that kids in the future don’ t experience this, and that we find treatment that prolongs their lives.”

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Artists (le to right) DareMeLife, HINK, Alex Ortega, and Carla Barry draw portraits on Sept. 24 during an art pop-up competition event at Studio Nez in Oak Park. Reno Msad (top right) poses while Carla Barry paints him. (Right) Jason Farley and Austy sit, as artist DareMeLife paints.

PHOTO S BY ALEX ROGALS/Sta Photographer

NORA FLYNN

ing really love reading, and they just need more resources that appeal to them,” she said.

that’s reflective of themselves, Flynn said.

The award was created by Barack Obama in 2006 when he was a senator from Illinois as a gift to the IRC to award a teacher they deem deserving.

Flynn, who has been at Percy Julian, 416 S. Ridgeland Ave., for four years, said, “It’s just really nice to have a moment where someone’s saying good job. But even more important was the fact that we could recognize the hard work my kids were doing.

“I just felt so grateful that someone besides me, and besides their families, and all the people in the school, could say to my readers – we see your hard work, and we want to recognize that,” Flynn said.

Flynn’s classroom ofstriv ing readers are students who are working towards reading at their grade level. Their placement into the class is deter mined by state test scores, and also by listening to them read, Flynn said, and talking to parents and teachers about whether the student appears to be strug gling.

Jeremy Christian, Julian’s principal, said looking at data points, students who were not at their grade level in reading came into Flynn’s class and now leave reading at their grade level, and sometimes, reaching above the level.

“You can see them making those gains,” Christian said.

Flynn said that while adults need to work on the structural issues leading to students of color being over re presented in her classes in the meantime, “kids get to be kids; they get to be readers.”

Flynn said one ofher goals is to make sure that her students feel those structural issues are not their burden to bear. Having books that are reflective of her students experience, but also of interest helps them be themselves as readers, developing and growing.

“[The collection] opens up more experiences, especially to the diversity aspects,” Christian said. “It helps them read things that they may not have known about before.”

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A lot of what Flynn assists her striving readers with are technical skills such as decoding, phonics, grammar and writing, as well as foundational work like making reading “social” again at the middle school level, she said.

Christian said growing up as an African American student, he read books about people who didn’t look like him, and he sees the new collection available to his students creating an impact.

“When the students actually have a book, and they can look at the cover ofa person that looks like them, or a story that aligns more closely to them and their experiences, it’s wildly impactful,” Chris tian said.

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Flynn said in middle school, reading time becomes independent and it can be an adjustment after reading aloud and discussing books as a class in elementary school. In Flynn’s classroom, reading time is like a “book club,” she said.

“We’ re able to have this social time where we’re able to discuss as we’re read ing, not after reading, and it also just has allowed so much more choice,” Flynn said.

Having important discussions about topics relevant to her students’ lives has made comprehension rise, and this new collection of culturally relevant books has fur thered that, Flynn said.

“The books in particular allow us to just level up quite a bit to have that joy of read ing again,” she said. She keeps in mind that not every kid working on reading is a “reluctant reader.”

“Some kids who are working on read

Flynn said winning this award is not only a renewal of what her job is, but it’s a re presentation of one of the mottos at the core of her class: Take hear t, go farther.

When people think ofa striving reader, the reward for getting better is that is gets harder, Flynn said, so this award helped her class “take heart” – making her and her students feel like they’re being noticed for their hard work With this heart, though, it will be their responsibility to go farther, she said.

“As a teacher, it’s my job to keep propelling these kids so they can access these books,” Flynn said. “And they’re going to do that hard work along the way, so the reward is to take a bigger, stronger, more complex book of

the

“Some kids who are working on reading really love reading, and they just need more resources that appeal to them.”

NORA FLYNN Literacy specialist

ASSISTED

River Forest to raze 3 buildings in TIF district

Demolition on Madison Street likely to begin in October

By ROBERT J. LIFKA Contributing Reporter

River Forest officials will use a state grant to demolish three buildings in the Madison Street Tax Increment Financing (TIF) District in an effort to make the site more desirable to developers.

The village board voted unanimously at the Sept. 26 meeting to award a contract to Anthem Excavation and Demolition of Itasca to demolish the for mer Lutheran Child and Family Services (LCFS) building at 76127620 Madison and single family homes at 11 Ashland Avenue and 10 Lathrop Avenue for $284,000. The contractor is responsible for asbestos abatement.

Funding will come from an Illinois Depart ment of Commerce and Economic Develop ment (DCEO) grant that the village received earlier this year, which would have covered

costs up to $350,000.

The Madison Street TIF District, which was created in November 2016, includes 98 tax parcels and 45 structures The district includes the northern portion of Madison between Lathrop and Thatcher avenues and includes several properties just north of Madison.

The three buildings to be demolished have sat empty since they were purchased by the village — the LCFS building in 2017; 10 Lathrop in 2018; and 11 Ashland in 2019. The village has actively marketed the site for re development but officials said they have not received any viable proposals. They are hop ing developers will be drawn to the site once it is cleared

Three neighbors of the properties to be de molished appeared at the Sept. 26 meeting to express concerns about possible damage to their homes; parking and traffic issues; fenc ing around the site before and after demoli tion; and a possible rodent infestation.

Village Administrator Brian Murphy noted that village staff members had met with neighbors in August and would be willing to

meet with them again to address their concerns.

“We want to be very good neighbors to our neighbors,” he said.

Once two minor hurdles are cleared, officials are hoping to begin demolition in October and complete the project in 4-6 weeks. The LCFS building will be demolished first.

The project also will include topsoil and seed blanketing of the site, which might be delayed until spring if weather conditions are not conducive when demolition is complete.

To receive the DCEO grant, 30 percent of the funds are required to go to state-certified minority-owned or women-owned businesses Anthem Excavation is a women-owned business but is currently not certified by the state. According to village officials, Anthem Excavation has submitted all required paperwork and anticipates receiving state certification in time to meet the proposed schedule

The Illinois State Historic Preservation Of fice has determined that the LCFS building is eligible for listing on the National Register

of Historic Places Although that determination does not prohibit demolition, officials are required to complete a Historic Illinois Building survey and make efforts to salvage certain features of the property. Officials said a consultant they hired has submitted a draft survey and they anticipate receiving permis sion to demolish the building. Features that will be preserved are stained glass and some brickwork.

At the time the TIF District was created, of ficials estimated it could generate $25 million over its 23-year lifetime TIF funds may be used for a variety of projects, from property acquisition to public infrastructure improvements to incentives for developers to bring in new businesses.

The equalized assessed value (EAV) of all properties within the TIF District are “fro zen” during the entire life of the district. Any taxes collected with incremental increases in those property values would be placed into the TIF fund, while all taxing bodies would continue to receive their share of the base EAV of those properties.

Adduci heads state municipal league; seeks restored IL funds

River Forest president touts education value, networking bene ts

By ROBERT J. LIFKA Contributing Reporter

River Forest residents will have to share the leadership of their village president with the rest of state after Cathy Adduci elected president of the Illinoi Municipal League (IML).

“The Illinois Municipal League has been at the forefront of cating and empowering munici pal officials for more than years,” Adduci said. “I am honored to have been selected by peers to serve as president as look forward to the year ahead and continue our strong record of advocacy on behalf of communities across Illinois.”

The Illinois Municipal League is a statewide association representing local communities throughout Illinois. Founded in 1913, IML has worked on behalf of 1,295 munici

palities in Illinois to provide a for mal voice on matters involving common interests.

Adduci was elected president at the orga nization’s annual business meeting, a part of the 109th annual conference, in Chicago.

Fairview Heights Mayor Mark T. Kupsky was elected first vice president and Hazel Crest Village President Vernard L. Alsberry Jr was re-elected as second vice president.

Previously elected second vice president and first vice president, Adduci will serve a one-year term as president. She has served on the anization’s board of directors since 2015.

he said her top priorities are estore the local government distribution fund (LGDF) levels that have declined under the past governors and to prevent the llinois Legislature from passing any further unfunded mandates.

She said the state is required to share state income tax revenue with municipalities but the percentage they are receiving is 6 percent, down from 10 percent as recently as 2011.

Adduci said restoring the LGDF funding level to 10 percent is “first and foremost” her top priority.

“We’re fighting like heck,” she added.

According to the organization’s website, the IML offers services to its members that range from traditional to cutting edge in order to educate and motivate local lead ers. In addition, the IML has worked “continuously” for the benefit of municipalities since its founding in 1913, promoting competence and inte g rity in administration of municipal gover nment.

Adduci said the education component was among the reasons she was drawn to the IML, along with networking potential and dealing with state and federal officials

“That’s what attracted us to IML. They educate us,” she said. “They really are highly re garded for education. ”

Another reason for belonging to IML is the organization’s contacts in Springfield and Washington D.C.

“We don’t have a lobbyist,” Adduci said. “In that re gard IML makes complete sense.”

She cited the conference as an example of collaboration that benefits individual municipalities, describing it as “a yearly event where mayors and village presidents from across our state can network” as well as share best practices and lear n more about the opportunities and challenges facing local gover nment.

“This is a place where local gover nment leaders lear n how they can join forces with neighboring cities to meet our common goals.”

Noting that membership in the IML in cluded larger municipalities in Illinois such as Chicago and Rockford, she said her being elected president shows that River Forest is important despite its size.

“River Forest has a voice at the table,” she said.

Adduci said she is confident the IML staf f, from Executive Director Brad Cole on down, will support her in her ter m as president.

“Successful leaders surround themselves with good people,” she said. “Brad is well liked and well infor med.

“We all have local issues but he will make sure we fight for our goals.”

Adduci became River Forest village president, the first woman elected to the posi tion, in 2013. She was elected to a four-year ter m as village trustee in 2009 and was previously appointed clerk in 2007.

She said her motivation to serve the IML is the same for serving River Forest.

“I’m not in this for the money,” she said. “It’s really about the public service. What motivates me is working for the taxpayers.”

CASH BAIL Judges maintain discretion

from page 1

Short for Safety, Accountability, Fair ness and Equity-Today, the SAFE-T Act was a broad-ranging initiative backed by the Illi nois Le gislative Black Caucus in the wake of a nationwide reckoning with racism in the criminal justice system following the death of George Floyd under the knee of a Minneapolis police officer

It was passed by the Senate just before 5 a.m. after an all-day session on Jan. 13, 2021, then cleared the House hours later Pritzker signed it a month later.

It has been amended twice, addressing law enforcement concer ns about use of force standards, clarifying some pretrial matters and changing language about po lice body cameras But provisions re gard ing cash bail have not been amended since the bill’s 2021 passage

The goal of the Pretrial Fair ness Act was clear: to move away from the existing wealthbased system of pretrial detention in favor of one based on an offender’s level of risk of re offending or fleeing prosecution.

Keith Grant, a Lake County public defend er and Pretrial Implementation Task Force member, said that citing and releasing people committing less serious offenses provides better outcomes, saves taxpayer money and frees officers to remain on the beat.

“We find that when defendants are de tained even for as little as, research shows, three days, they can become destabilized to the point of lacking all of the social netting resources that they would have otherwise had,” Grant said. “Keeping people in custody when they don’t need to be actually creates a risk of harm to the community.”

The Loyola University of Chicago’s Center for Criminal Justice Research analyzed Illi nois State Police data that showed that from 2020 to 2021, individuals jailed pretrial in Illi nois spent an average of 34 days incarcerated.

The report predicted the numbers would decrease under the PFA for those committing lesser offenses while likely increasing for those held on more serious offenses because they can’t free themselves on bail. (See graphic above)

The report further analyzed U.S. Depart ment of Justice data which showed that in 2019, 50 percent of jail detainees in Illinois were Black compared to 15 percent of the population at large; 33 percent were white compared to 76 percent of the population; and 14 percent were Hispanic compared to 18 percent of the population. The racial disparity numbers were driven by Illinois’

three largest counties

Of those detained, 82 percent were being held on felony charges and 89 percent were being held pretrial.

The new law abolishes cash bail and provides for a presumption in favor of release for misdemeanors, traf fic of fenses and other petty of fenses, provided a defendant is not deemed a risk to the community by the ar resting of ficer. (See graphic opposite page)

Kane County Chief Judge Clint Hull, a task force member, said at a July town hall that the ar resting of ficers will maintain similar discretion as they are af forded under current law.

“Do they pose an obvious threat to the community or any person or are they a risk to… their own safety?” he said. “In both situations, if they are, the police – despite the fact that this isn’t the most serious of fense – (do) have the discretion to bring that person in to try to make sure that they can identify and address that issue.”

In most cases, individuals committing misdemeanors or petty of fenses will re ceive a citation from law enforcement and a court date within 21 days

Pretrial hearings

After the initial arrest, as under current law, judges will deter mine whether detention continues

Under current law, bail hearings typically occur within 72 hours of arrest and last less than five minutes. Prosecutors detail the defendant’s charges and may recommend a bail amount. The judge then decides the conditions of their release, including how much money, if any, the defendant must post before their release from custody.

Under the PFA, the hearings will be more intensive Defendants are given a right to

legal representation and prosecutors can detail their reasons for continued detention.

“One of the primary goals of the law is to make sure that we’re having in-depth, detailed hearings when we’re taking away someone’s freedom,” said Sarah Staudt, an advocate with the Chicago Appleseed Center for Fair Courts, which worked with lawmakers on the bill.

Prosecutors wishing to keep an individual detained would petition the court for pretrial detention.

Upon petition, the law requires an “immediate” detention hearing which could co incide with the defendant’s first appearance in court. If a continuance is requested and granted, the court would have 48 hours in serious felony cases to hold such a hearing.

The court would have the authority to de tain an individual pending a continuance.

For pretrial detention to be ordered, the state must prove “by clear and convincing evidence” that the defendant committed the crime, poses a specific threat to a person or persons and that no other pretrial conditions can mitigate the defendant’s risk to that person or persons

It’s a heightened standard that prosecutors have war ned may be too difficult to meet within the short timeline, but advocates say is necessary to protect a constitutional presumption of innocence.

For lesser offenses, the court would have 24 hours to conduct the same procedure. The PFA makes no exception for holidays or weekends.

Limits to detention

State’s attor neys have been the most vocal critics of the law as written, arguing that it leaves too little leeway for judges to detain

dangerous individuals in certain circumstances

Among them is Republican DuPage County State’s Attor ney Bob Berlin, who said he was not opposed to ending cash bail in principle.

“I want to stress, this is very fixable,” Berlin said. “I’m not one of the people out there saying ‘Oh, re peal re peal, just get rid of it.’ We can fix this. And we can fix it be fore January 1.”

John Curran – an implementation task force member, GOP state senator and for mer assistant Cook County state’s attor ney – said he also didn’t oppose ending cash bail, but he saw several shortcomings with the system replacing it

He, Berlin and other state’s attor neys have called on Illinois to emulate a system put in place in New Jersey in 2017, which eliminates cash bail but gives greater discretionary authority to judges to impose pretrial detention than does Illinois’ law.

“The first big difference is New Jersey doesn’t limit the number of offenses that are detainable,” Berlin said in an interview. “New Jersey allows judges to detain in any criminal offense, which would include misdemeanors. We believe that judges are in the best position to make decisions about who should be detained or not.”

While the PFA does not create categories of offenses that are “non-detainable” under ev ery circumstance, it does, as written, create circumstances in which a judge would have no statutory authority to detain a defendant that doesn’t have a prior record or present a risk of fleeing prosecution.

Another Loyola University study estimated that a judge would not have been able to detain the defendant in 56 percent of arrests that occurred statewide in 2020 and 2021 had the PFA been in place.

From 2020 to 2021, according to the re search, 193,387 people were admitted into jails statewide each year, with 90 percent held for some length pretrial. Due to varying lengths of pretrial detention, the report estimated there were between 13,827 to 15,994 people being held pretrial daily.

Once the PFA is implemented, between 44,000 and 70,000 individuals per year will be eligible for initial detention, the report estimated

About 70 percent of those would be in re lation to domestic violence or violations of order of protections, according to the study, which is one reason the SAFE-T Act had sup port from anti-domestic violence groups.

“If post-COVID trends continue,” the re port reads, “that means somewhere between 89,000 and 115,000 individuals per year could not be initially detained under the PFA once the law goes into effect on January 1, 2023.”

Loyola University of Chicago’s Center for Cr iminal Justice Research shows the breakdown of Illinoi s’ jail population in 2019. See full report at tiny url.com/2k72bjmx

Detention standards

Curran’s and Berlin’s concern lies in the language beginning on page 370 of the 764page SAFE-T Act which lays out the specific circumstances in which a judge can order pretrial detention.

The language allows a judge to deny pretrial release if a defendant is a danger to an individual or the community and is accused of non-probational offenses such as firstdegree murder, as well as aggravated arson, residential burglary, stalking, domestic battery, certain gun offenses and several specified sex offenses

While misdemeanors and other low-level offenses are generally non-detainable under the new law, all charges become detainable if the defendant is already on pretrial release, probation or parole

The language also allows detention for in dividuals charged with a forcible felony “for which a sentence of imprisonment, without

probation, periodic imprisonment or conditional discharge, is required by law upon conviction.”

The task force has noted that language specifically excludes offenses for which a defendant is eligible for probation. Berlin said that means, under the law as written, judges cannot order pretrial detention of an individual accused of second-degree murder, drug traf ficking, arson, robbery, aggravated battery, threatening a public official and other probational offenses unless prosecutors prove they are a risk for “willful flight” from prosecution.

The willful flight standard, unlike the dangerousness provision, can be applied to anyone committing a crime greater than a Class 4 felony – which includes many prop erty crimes and offenses such as aggravated DUI and driving on a revoked license – who is deemed by a judge as “planning or attempting to intentionally evade prosecution by concealing oneself.”

But because the law states that past non-

appearances in court are “not evidence of fu ture intent to avoid prosecution,” Berlin said it will be difficult to prove.

“I mean, you’ve gotta show that they’ve got a ticket to get out of town,” Berlin said.

Advocates, on the other hand, say the differentiation between the willful flight and dangerousness standards was intentional, although further changes may be forthcoming

“If someone’s going to cooperate with the prosecution in a nonviolent case, we don’t want a situation where they’re being de tained,” Staudt said.

Sen. Robert Peters, a Democrat and Senate co-sponsor of the law, said he’s open to discussions about amending the bill’s willful flight standards and detainable offense language based on the Pretrial Implementation Task Force’s recommendations.

“Anytime you take human life and you’re saying I’m going to take away their freedom, that should be somewhat of a higher standard,” he said. “What I again will say is that

I’m willing to have conversations about the practices of this.”

Rep. Justin Slaughter, a Chicago Democrat and the law’s House sponsor, said language regarding detainable offenses in the existing bill is “misleading” and “unclarified,” and his plan is to address it in follow-up legislation this fall.

“We will have a system that prioritizes public safety, and we will have a system (in which)… there’s no such thing as a non-de tainable person,” Slaughter said when asked about the goal of follow-up legislation at a Sept. 15 news conference.

He declined to go into specifics due to ongoing discussions

Curran, who said he’s been pushing for such changes since January 2021, noted another section of the bill states that “at each subsequent appearance” in court, a judge must find that continued detention of a defendant is necessary “to avoid the specific, real and present threat to any person or of willful flight from prosecution to continue detention of the defendant.”

The task force identified the language as problematic, and advocates have said standardizing the language throughout the bill will be a goal of follow-up legislation.

Follow-up bill

Slaughter said lawmakers are working with the task force to address concer ns He’s currently sponsoring House Bill 5537, a 219page bill that, among other changes, seeks to standardize the detention language It was filed in January, has no cosponsors and likely does not represent a final bill.

While court officials like Berlin have engaged lawmakers regarding potential chang es, several others have raised broader alar ms and pushed for a full repeal – an outcome unlikely with Democrats in control of the General Assembly and gover nor’s office at least through the PFA’s effective date

At a news conference with county sheriffs earlier this month, GOP gover nor candidate and state Sen. Darren Bailey pushed for a full repeal and didn’t offer alter native amend ments he’d work to implement. He said he believed repeal would be possible because he believed the Pretrial Fair ness Act was tied to unspecified property tax increases.

At a Sept. 14 news conference, Pritzker re iterated he supports the new law but didn’t say when changes would happen or to what extent they are necessary.

“Are there changes or adjustments that need to be made? Of course,” he said. “And there have been adjustments made and there will continue to be Laws are not immutable.”

Read the full article at oakpark.com

Customer pepper sprays Mc Donald’s employee

A McDonald’s employee was hospitalized after a customer pe pper sprayed her in the face at 11:16 p.m., Se pt. 20. The employee was working the drive thru at the McDonalds, 111 Madison St., when a female customer re por tedly became upset and dis charged the pe pper spray at the employee. The victim was transpor ted to Rush Oak Park Hospital.

Oak Park police are investigating the in stance of battery. The suspect was last seen traveling eastbound on Madison Street in a gray sedan.

Aggravated vehicular hijacking

A Hazel Crest resident was carjacked by four men, two of whom were ar med, in the 300 block of South Euclid Avenue at 7:18 p.m., Sept. 24. The victim was approached by the four men after exiting his 2011 Dodge and two of the men pulled out handguns and de manded his car keys, which were inside the vehicle. All four offenders then fled in the victim’s Dodge. The estimated loss is $10,000.

Burglar y

■ Someone broke into an apar tment unit, possibly by climbing through a rear window, then ransacked the apar tment and took an Apple MacBook 13-inch laptop, a gold wedding band, a black Nor th Face parka, Wahl hair clippers, a SurgiTel

loupes surgical tool, two hard drives and a bag containing the victim’s passpor t, social security card, two credit cards and a spare key to the victim’s vehicle between 6 a.m. and 6 p.m., Se pt. 20 in the 1000 block of Washington Boulevard. The estimated loss is $4,263.

■ Someone broke into a home, possibly through a bathroom window, and removed a Roomba vacuum cleaner, an air fryer, a por table ice maker, an LG flat screen television, an Apple MacBook Pro laptop, an Apple iPad, an LG camera and a Dyson vacuum cleaner between 10:57 a.m. and 8:11 p.m., Se pt. 22 in the 900 block of High land Avenue

Motor vehicle theft

■ A 2015 Dodge parked in the 400 block of South Maple Avenue was removed at about 7:16 a.m., Sept. 24. Chicago police recovered the vehicle without apprehension at 11:37 p.m., Sept. 24 in the 3000 block of South Ar cher Avenue in Chicago.

■ A brown 2018 Kia Optima parked in the 600 block of North Humphrey Avenue was taken at about 9:39 a.m., Sept. 19. Chicago po lice recovered the vehicle 4:27 p.m. that after noon without apprehension in the 5500 block of West Grand Avenue, Chicago.

■ A black 2015 Kia Optima parked in the 800 block of Fillmore Street was removed be tween 10 p.m., Sept. 18 and 10:52 a.m., Sept. 19.

Police investigating shooting at Ridgeland and Ontario

Police cannot con rm if incident was targeted

By STACEY SHERIDAN Staff Reporter

Oak Park police are investigating a shooting that took place at about 5:45 p.m., Tuesday near Ontario Street and Ridgeland. One person suffered a minor wound but refused medical attention. At this time, police could not confir m if the shooting was targeted or an incident of road rage

According to witness statements made to police, the driver of a white sedan pulled up

alongside a gray sedan that was stopped in the westbound lane of Ontario at Ridgeland The diver reportedly leaned out of the car window and opened fire at the gray sedan. The white sedan was last seen fleeing northbound on Ridgeland

While five shots were fired, the woman driving the gray sedan sustained no injuries. She was taken to a local hospital for stress related issues, according to police A second victim who was stopped behind the gray sedan at the time of the incident received a graze wound to the hip but declined medical attention.

Police describe the alleged offender driving the white sedan as a male in his late 20s or wearing 30s and wearing a gray sweatshirt.

The estimated loss is $14,917.

■ A 2020 Ford Expedition parked in the 500 block of Lake Street was taken between 12:35 p.m. and 3:20 p.m. from the 500 block of Lake Street. The estimated loss is $70,000.

■ A 2017 Volvo XC parked in the 200 block of North Scoville Avenue was stolen between 3 p.m., Sept. 18 and 3 p.m., Sept. 20. The victim’s purse, which contained a driver’s license, personal documents, a key fob, and credit and debit cards, was inside the vehicle. The estimated loss is $25,000.

■ A white 2019 Toyota Highlander was taken from a residential garage with an unlocked side service door at about 7:10 a.m., Sept. 22 in the 500 block of South Humphrey Avenue. The estimated loss is $30,000.

■ A dark blue 2008 Porsche Carrera parked in the 6200 block of Roosevelt Road was re moved between 8 p.m., Sept. 21 and 9:45 a.m., Sep. 22. Chicago police recovered the vehicle without apprehension in 700 block of West 18th Street in Chicago at 1:46 p.m., Sept. 24.

■ A blue 2019 Hyundai Elantra parked in the 1300 block of North Austin Boulevard was taken between 8 p.m., Sept. 21 and 10:49 a.m., Sept. 22. The estimated loss is $25,000.

■ A black 2019 Subaru Legacy parked in the 300 block of South Grove Avenue was taken between 9 p.m., Sept. 20 and 6 a.m., Sept. 21. The vehicle was recovered by Chicago police without apprehension in the 200 block of North Pulaski Road in Chicago at 9:42 p.m., Sept. 25.

■ A gold 2014 Jeep Wrangler parked in the 900 block of Washington Boulevard was taken between 1:30 a.m. and 11:50 a.m., Sept. 21. The victim later found the vehicle parked in the 400 block of South Home Avenue at 10:46 p.m., Sept. 25.

■ An unlocked 2019 Jeep Wrangler parked in the 600 block of Lake Street was removed between 7:30 a.m. and 1:41 p.m., Sept. 21. The estimated loss is $20,213.

Theft

A package was taken from the front of a residence in the 200 block of South Boulevard between 10 a.m. and 12:28 p.m., Se pt. 19. The estimated loss is $30.

The front passenger’s side wheel of a Ca dillac was stolen between 3 p.m. and 7:55 p.m., Se pt. 19. The estimated loss is $200.

These items, obtained from the Oak Park Police De partment, came from re ports, Se pt. 20-26, and re present a portion of the incidents to which police responded. Anyone named in these re ports has only been charged with a crime and cases have not yet been adjudicated. We re port the race of a suspect only when a serious crime has been committed, the suspect is still at large, and police hav e provided us with a detailed phys ical description of the suspect as they seek the public’s help in making an arrest

Compiled by Stacey Sheridan

Home Ave. development goes to village board for vote

Plan Commission split over rezoning property for townhomes

By LACEY SIKORA Contributing Reporter

At the Sept. 22 Oak Park Plan Commission Meeting on the application for a zoning map amendment for 327-329 Home Ave., the five commissioners present failed to reach the necessary majority to approve 327 Home Ave. LLC’s request for a zoning change.

The corporation, re presented at the hearing by John Schiess, is requesting a zoning map amendment from the current R-5 zoning to R-6. If granted, the R-6 designation would allow a developer to build an additional 12 units on the two lots spanned by 327 and 329 Home Ave., in addition to the four units already present in the existing building at 327 Home Ave., for a total of 16 units on the two lots.

The manager of 327 Home Ave. LLC is Gary Collins, who is a board member of Growing Community Media, which publishes the Wednesday Journal. Schiess stated that the new building would be limited to four units, designed by architect Bob Mifflin and built by River Forest-based Levy Homes.

Schiess called the move to R-6 zoning a transition between the zoned R-7 condo building to the south of the project at 339 Home Ave. and the zoned R-5 single family homes to the north of the development. Schiess indicated that failure to grant the zoning map amendment would pose financial and personal hardship for Collins, who Schiess says plans to live in one unit and rent the remaining three.

Village Planner Craig Failor noted that all comments submitted to the Plan Commission prior to the meeting in writing

were considered and that of the comments, there was one phone call from an Oak Park resident in favor of the zoning map change. All other comments were against the zoning map amendment.

An internal project review team made up of personnel from Development Customer Services, Public Works, Police, Fire and Law Departments, determined that staf f had no objection to the zoning map change if a deed restriction were in place limiting the number of units in the new building to four. Absent such a deed restriction, staf f indicated they would not support the ap plication.

Plan Commission attorney Gregory Smith indicated commissioners could not consider a future deed restriction in making their decision, noting, “The deed re striction is a hypothetical.”

Many neighbors of the proposed development spoke during the public comment portion of the hearing. Bryan Lantz object-

has a business and personal relationship with Collins and did not recuse himself from the vote. Lantz also voiced his opinion that the zoning amendment was incompatible with the historic character of the neighborhood.

Several residents of the adjacent condominium building expressed concern that if

Existing building

Proposed townhomes

CREDIT R A MIFFLIN ARCHITECT

A site plan provided to the village (above) shows how the proposed townhome building would be situated on the property.

built as proposed, the new building would lower their property values by blocking light in their units and taking away green space and trees from the neighborhood, while increasing density and adding more cars and residents to an already congested area.

rejected Schiess’ re presentation that the proposed new building, along with garages and the existing building would only take up 35 percent of the green space on lots and asked for clarification from the architect on the amount of lot that is currently green space and the amount that would remain green space if the lot is developed under the re presentations in the application.

Commissioner Gallagher voiced his support for the zoning map change stating that he was focused on increasing revenue to the village and has “no problem with increased density.”

Commissioner Paul Beckwith ag reed, stating, “If we have the opportunity to make some money, we should do that.”

Commissioner Jon Hale liked Schiess’ description of the lot as transition zoning and said that aside from revenue, he would like to see more housing in the village.

Commissioner Nick Bridge did not recommend approving the application.

“I’m not willing to give anyone carte blanche to build another 12 units on this

lot,” Bridge said. “I’m not sure another four is reasonable.”

Plan Commission Chairperson Iris Sims said that aside from the tax revenue piece, she did not see how the zoning amendment could be approved as it did not meet the standards the Plan Commission had to consider, namely compatibility with nearby properties, impact on the overall character of the neighborhood and the probable significant impact on neighbors’ property values.

With only five of nine commissioners present, and three voting in favor and two voting against, the Plan Commission failed to achieve the five-vote threshold needed to recommend approval of the application.

The developer, re presented by Schiess, was given the opportunity to hold the vote until more commissioners could be present at the Oct. 6 meeting or forward the decision to the village board. According to Schiess, his client accepted the Plan Commission’s decision and wanted to move forward to the village board.

The date for the village board to consider the Plan Commission’s recommendation has not been set. Failor says the village board will be limited to information already in the record from the public hearing. Like plan commissioners, the village trustees cannot put conditions such as a deed restriction on a map amendment ap plication.

Prior to the village board meeting, village staf f will provide trustees with a recommendation and the reasons for that position.

ALEX ROGALS/Sta Photographer

e ow ner of the property at 327 Home Ave., where a residential building (above) was divided many years ago into four units, wants to build a four-unit tow nhome development on the vacant lot immediately to the south, at 329 Home Ave.

Homes

Fine arts auction house leaving Oak Park

Toomey & Co. merges with Rago/Wright,

By LACEY SIKORA Contributing Reporter

This fall after a 40-year tenure in Oak Park, Toomey & Co. Auctioneers is packing its bags. The auction house merged with Rago/Wright and is relocating to Wright’s Chicago headquar ters on Hubbard Street in the West Loop.

As with Rago/Wright’s 2021 partnership with LA Moder n Auctions, Toomey & Co. will maintain its name, and all four houses will work together to share technology, expertise and marketing

CEO Lucy Toomey, daughter of founder and President John Toomey, said the timing was right for a change.

“We had outgrown our space in Oak Park, and with the way the auction world is trending, this move made sense,” she said.

According to Lucy Toomey, the Oak Park auc tion house would hold four regular auctions each year, each featuring roughly 1,200 lots for sale. In recent years, the number of auctions has increased almost four-fold, and this move to more frequent, smaller auctions increased their need for resources and reliance on technology.

The merger also dovetails with the changing retail climate created by the pandemic.

“The pandemic really affected things,” Toomey said. “Pre-pandemic, we were challenged by the world of immediate gratification, when people expected to order something online and have it there the next day. With the pandemic, people were spending more time at home and not spend ing their money on traveling or dining out. They got the auction bug.”

TOOMEY & CO.

COURTESY OF RAG O/WRIGHT/L AMA/TOOME Y & CO

TOOME Y & CO. Greater reach

from page 19

Vice President and Senior Specialist John Walcher explained that auction houses like Toomey were not impacted by the pandemic in the same way as other retail businesses.

“We don’t have the supply chain issues that traditional retailers had,” Walcher said

Toomey & Co. is following a trend of houses merging, which allows them to share both resources and technology.

“We were looking to upgrade our technolog y and software anyway, and this made it easier for us,” Walcher said.

The combination lets each house benefit from the specific focus of the others. John Toomey established Toomey & Co. as a specialist in the Arts and Crafts move ment. David Rago is a preeminent author ity in 20th century decorative ceramics and design based on the east coast. Richard Wright’s focus is on moder n design.

As one entity, the new firm will of fer enhanced opportunities for buying and selling objects from a wider range of eras and movements. Toomey calls joining two established firms “the best of both worlds.”

In addition, Riley Humler, a Toomey & Co. specialist and president of the American Art Pottery Association, will bring his 30 years of expertise in the ceramics and pottery area to join that of David Rago, who has established Rago/Wright as the leading auction house for early 20th century American ceramics and art pottery.

Walcher says the merger will provide

COURTESY OF R AG O/WRIGHT/L AMA/TOOME Y & CO

greater reach for Toomey & Co

“We already had an inter national print,” Walcher said. “Now, having physical offices on the east and west coasts will us an edge with some of our consignor Richard Wright will remain in the tion of CEO for the combined compan which will continue to offer curated tions of art, design, ceramics, glass, jew and watches with digital presentations state-of-the-art bidding technology Rago Wright’s first auction with Toomey & is planned for Oct. 11 and will feature outsider and self-taught art, and Americana.

Toomey says the newly-launched site, toomeyco.com, is a good entryw the fir m, but said talking to customers mains an impor tant par t of the business

“We still love talking to our clients about all of their needs and interests Toomey said.

Toomey & Co. and their staf f continue to migrate to the new Chicago location, eventually Toomey says her father be looking to lease or sell the building owns on 818 Nor th Blvd. in Oak Park

“It was very bittersweet to leave Oak Park, and it’s very sad to leave our little building,” Toomey said. “Oak Park has been such a wonderful home to us.”

Rago/Wright’s Chicago headquar ters (above) on Hubbard Street in the West Loop. John Walcher and Lucy Toomey (right) of Toomey & Co

COURTESY OF RAG O/WRIGHT/L AMA/TOOME Y & CO

KATRINA WIT TKAMP PHOTOGRAPHY

Fenwick volleyball spikes Trinity, snapping losing streak

Win was rst for Friars after 8 straight losses

By MELVIN TATE Contributing Reporter

Entering this season, both the Fenwick and Trinity High School girls volleyball teams were looking to build of f good 2021 seasons in which each won a re gional title.

However, this year has been dif ficult for both, and the Blazers and Friars met in Oak Park on Se pt. 21 with each looking for a victory to change momentum.

“Both of us have played tough schedules, and both of us have been down the last few weeks,” said Fenwick coach Kathleen O’Laughlin.

Led by Shannon O’Laughlin’s 10 kills, Fenwick snapped an eight-match losing streak with a 25-18, 25-14 win over visiting Trinity.

“It felt really good,” said Shannon O’Laughlin. “We’re getting back into a rhythm these last few games and we’re looking for a big stretch heading into the play offs.”

Injuries have hampered the Friars (6-13) this season, but with key players beginning to retur n, they’re optimistic about having more success over the final month of the regular season.

C AROL DUNNING/Contributor

Trinity’s Lilli Puttin returns a ball against Fenwick in a girls volleyball non-conference match Sept. 21. e Blazers lost to the Friars 18-25, 14-25.

“We were down three players and re placed them with three freshmen, who did an outstanding job,” Kathleen O’Laughlin said. “But we were up against some big teams in [IHSA Class] 4A. T hey lear ned a lot.”

Fenwick jumped out to an 11-2 lead in the opening set and cruised from there. In the second set, T rinity (4-12) led 4-2, but the F riars erupted for a 12-2 r un to take

control and ultimately win the match.

“We’ re young, and sometimes we play well, sometimes we struggl e,” said T rin ity coach Ken Uhlir. “If we can’ t execute on the of fensive side, we can’ t win. We’ve got to be more disciplined.”

A bright spot for the Blazers was senior middle hitter Maddie Breunig, who had a pair of blocks and displayed tremendous energy.

“Maddie has been star ting on the varsity for four years,” Uhlir said. “She’s usually reliable and did a nice job.”

Claire Rambasek had three kills and Flynn Puttin three assists for Trinity.

For Fenwick, Hazel Davis had 17 digs, Felicia Saunders 21 assists and Maeve Welsh three aces.

“It felt good having Maeve back on the cour t,” Shannon O’Laughlin said. “We’ve been missing her a lot.”

Both the Blazers and F riars hope to change their for tunes with the state play of fs looming late next month.

“We’ re definitely becoming closer as a team and I think we’re going to be unstop pable once the playof fs come,” Shannon O’Laughlin said.

“There’s nothing else we can do We’ve got to keep working and practicing,” Uhlir said. “Our first goal is to win conference, and after that we’ ll see what happens.”

Huskies squander lead, fall to Hinsdale Central

Trailing 19-7 at half, Red Devils score winning TD with 22 seconds left

By BILL STONE Contributing Reporter

The Oak Park and River Forest High School football team had first-half leads in two previous West Suburban Conference Silver losses.

The Huskies’ latest WSC Silver defeat

Se pt. 23 was the most frustrating – 22-19 at Hinsdale Central on a 9-yard touchdown pass with 22.4 seconds left after leading 19-7 at halftime

“There’s not much I can take out of that in a positive light,” OPRF coach John Hoerster said. “Hats of f to [Hinsdale Central].

“They wanted to win this g ame more than our guys They came out in the second half down two scores. We didn’t answer on of fense and our defense didn’t get a stop We’ve got some soul searching to do and hopefully our kids take this as a lesson and a challenge and bounce back.”

In the fourth quar ter, the Huskies (23, 0-3) tur ned back Hinsdale Central (3-2, 1-1) twice inside the 10 before the winning score.

Cole Roberson and Khalil Nichols had key interceptions, Jeremiah Williams had a sack and Jacob Bickhem, Nichols and Ja mari Williams had pass breakups

Eric Evans rushed 25 times for 153 yards, with 104 yards and two 1-yard touchdown runs in the first half Jack Gooch was 12for-23 passing for 106 yards with a 24-yard touchdown pass to John Shepard. The Huskies played without the injured Ryan Mar

tin, who has eight touchdown receptions

OPRF, however, had just a three-and out on of fense in the third quar ter and 88 second-half yards and five first downs. An other three-and-out gave Hinsdale Central the ball at its 34 with 3:51 to play for the winning drive.

“We’ve got to lear n how to finish a g ame,” Hoerster said. “But that’s not just on us. Hinsdale did a great job.”

The Red Devils scored on their opening possession of the second half to close to 19-14. The Huskies then stopped them one yard shor t on a fourth-and-2 quar terback

OPRF boys cross country continues impressive run

Newhar t places 3rd at invite featuring state’s top programs

By BILL STONE Contributing Reporter

S enior Liam Newhar t was pa rt of the Oak Pa rk and Rive r Fo rest High School boys cross c ountry team’s impressive race in Peoria on Se pt. 17, taking third and missing second-place Oswe go E ast senior Pa rker Nold by 0.2 second s.

On Se pt. 24, Newhar t was third agai n in another strong field at the Palatine Invitational (14 minutes, 48.2 seconds fo r 3.0 miles), finishing 3.0 seconds ahead of N old after both move d up the final mile

T here we re nine ILXCTF.com top-1 0 r anked C lass 3A or 2A teams and two pe rennially strong out-of-state progr ams T he Huskies move d up to No 3 in C lass 3A after winning the Peoria N otre Dame Invite on Se pt. 17.

“Running with the top guys who are some of the top in the state definitely gives me a lot of c onfidence going fo rward,” Newhar t said. “This makes me f eel g ood going i nto the end of the season. ”

T he Huskies finished four th overall at Palatine (175 points), losing out on a sixth-runner tiebreaker with third-plac e No. 18 Bar rington.

Nick Parrell (13th, 15:08.2), Michael Mi chelotti (27th, 15:28.5) also ear ned top-3 0 individual medals, followe d by Owen Au g ustine (48th, 15:43.8), Lewis O’Connor (86th, 16:07.8), Mariano Escobedo (107th, 16:21.7).

keeper from the 10. After the Red Devils’ intercepted at the 17, Nichols intercepted three plays later at the 6.

In the second quar ter, Evans pressured and Roberson intercepted a deflected pass near midfield and retur ned the ball to the Red Devils’ 10. Evans scored on fourth-and goal and the Huskies led 12-7.

OPRF re gained possession at the Red Devils’ 39 just 43.1 seconds before halftime The Huskies followed a pass interference

Dan Johnson dropped out of the race af ter one mile. Otherwise, the Huskies prob ably would have finished second ahead of second-place No. 10 Maine South (163) and behind No. 1-ranked Plainfield South (35).

Plainfield South’s Camyn Viger (14:44.8) and Sami Hattab of Kentucky’s St. Xavier (14:45.4) finished 1-2.

T he No 11 OPRF girls were 11th (334), losing out on a sixth r unner tiebreaker with No. 12 Palatine. T he Huskies im proved from being 14th with 353 points at 1.5 miles.

Katie Stabb (17th, 17:36.0) ear ned a top-30 individual medal, moving up seven plac es the second half Natalie Quinn (56th, 18:50.7), Avery Minnis (59th, 18:53.9) and Lenny Ster ritt (73rd, 18:58.9) also broke 19:00, followed by Abig ail Lofg ren (134th, 20:03.2), Anne Lynch (138th, 20:06.7) and Rachel Prestes (147th, 20:17.7).

Fenwick boys 25th at Palatine Invite

The Fenwick High School boys finished 25th (677) and welcomed 2021 all-staters Nate McKillop and Grayden Rill back to the lineup

McKillop (30th, 15:29.7) got the last individual medal by 0.4 seconds. Rill was 146th (16:51.6), followed by Chris Bajda (169th, 17:15.1), Benicio Carideo (170th, 17:17.4), Michael Domke (180th, 17:47.3), Jake Leonardi (183rd, 17:57.3) and Dean O’Bryan (199th, 19:08.9).

The Fenwick girls competed four individuals -- Bella Daley (48th, 18:46.6), Amalia Anderson (194th, 22:20.4), Molly Weber (195th, 22:21.7) and Adelai Kaiser (201st, 23:19.4).

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penalty with the touchdown pass to She pard, who broke a tackle at the 5 to score 26.6 seconds before halftime. Nolan Vitale conver ted the extra point after missed oneand two-point attempts.

On the Huskies’ first touchdown drive of 89 yards, Evans had 24, 14 and 17-yard gains.

“He’s a very good football player,” Hoer ster said. “They did a great job defending the pass. He ste pped up and did a great job.”

OPRF girls tennis downs crosstown rival

By MELVIN TATE Contributing Reporter

For the first time since 2019, the Oak Park and River Forest High School girls tennis team is playing matches on campus due to their cour ts being used as a staging area for the ongoing campus construction.

OPRF coach Fred Galluzzo is especially pleased to be back at home given the lo gistical challenges of the last two years.

“We were all tired of constant bus rides, particularly since many of our practices needed to be in a public park,” he said.

Having graduated five players from last season, this year is a reloading one for OPRF. But on Se pt. 21, the Huskies rose to the occasion in a home match against crosstown rival Fenwick High School and prevailed 6-3.

OPRF recorded a pair of victories in singles play. At No. 2 singles, freshman Maria Clara Lau defeated Marin Jancewicz 6-1, 6-0, while senior Libby Majka knocked of f Leah Hyland 6-4, 6-4 at No. 3 singles

The Huskies also won four doubles matches: Kitty DeHaan and Margot Sloan over Caroline Gruber and Mae Mae Mc Donnell 7-6 (7-3 in the tiebreaker), 6-4; Maya Schwartz and Clara Ottati over Ellie Karls and Angelina Squeo 6-1, 6-0; Alice Cald well and Sophie Welch over Anna Androsyuk and Natalie Fuentes 6-2, 6-3; and Baylee Pi asecki and Sophia Lynn over Natalie Sur and Maddie Murray 6-4, 6-2.

“We’ve been trying to find the right combination of solid singles play and good doubles teams,” said Galluzzo.

OPRF hopes to finish in the top three of the West Suburban Conference Silver Division, but it won’t be easy with programs such as Glenbard West, Hinsdale Central, Lyons Township and York as the top con-

tenders The Huskies will also host an IHSA sectional next month.

Fenwick had three victories against OPRF At No 1 singles, Trinity Hardin de feated Anika Gupta 6-1, 6-4.

The Friars’ top two doubles teams also won: Me g an Trifilio and Lily Brecknock over Margaret Brennan and Maeve Marzec 6-3, 7-5 and Rachel Abraham and Maeve Paris over Kathryn Meister and Jessica Locke 6-0, 6-2.

Coming of f a season in which Fenwick finished third in IHSA Class 1A and brought home the first state trophy in program history, coach Gerard Sullivan is pleased with how things are going.

“This is a group that plays serious, fo cused tennis in practice, which has set a foundation for how they approach their matches,” he said. “They’re still lear ning ways to play more aggressive and adaptive tennis.”

The Friars hope to defend their Girls Catholic Athletic Conference championship next month, though Sullivan believes Loyola Academy will provide a challenge. Also, with five players retur ning from last year, there are expectations for another successful state tour nament.

“How we play in the big matches coming up during the key g ames and points will show what kind of team we are,” Sullivan said. “If we perfor m well, the results will take care of themselves.”

DEADLINE FOR SUBMISSIONS IS FRIDAY 5 P.M. Call Viewpoints editor

Ken Trainor at 613-3310

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It’s in my yard … it’s mine!

Recent events remind me of an incident that took place when my son, Dan, was a little boy of 4. My next-door neighbor and his son accidentally kicked their soccer ball into our back yard. Dan was delighted. When the neighbors came to retrieve their soccer ball, my son, clinging to it, exclaimed, “It’s mine!” After all, the ball was in his backyard, and he was angry at our neighbors’ very appropriate attempt to retrieve what was

My kind-hearted neighbor the ball to Dan, but of course I would not allow him to accept this generous th a dose of motherly and an understanding of disappointment, I took the opportunity to teach him that we that which is not ours. It was a difficult lesson for a little boy to acce pt … and a lesson that Donald Trump never learned!

Government documents belong to the U.S. government. Period! They do not belong to any for mer president, and certainly none of the information, classified or not, is ever to be removed from the National Archives to anyone’s home, let alone Trump’s home and public club. Why Trump would illegally take confidential gover nment information from the archives to his club is a major question and of great concern. I don’t want to accuse Trump of treasonous wrong-doing, but the secrets and classified information he hid at Mar a Lago (his backyard) could be sold to foreign enemies for millions of dollars.

Perhaps if he had learned Dan’s lesson, this improper behavior would not have happened.

Over many, many months and after multiple govern ment requests for return of the documents, Trump finally released some boxes of information in early 2022. At that time his lawyer assured the National Archives that this was the entirety of the papers taken. This was obviously a falsehood, whether she was aware of it, or not. Further demands from the government to have the balance of absconded materials retur ned were ignored.

Finally, a court-approved warrant was issued by a judge allowing the FBI to search Trump’s home for the hundreds of documents that were missing. Instead of

VIEWPOINTS

Vote Yes for the environment

Electoral College map of the U.S. from the 2020 election.

Elect our president by popular vote

The Pew Research Center (Aug. 5) re ported that support for electing the president by national popular vote is increasing among all voters, re gard less of party, ideolo gy, or age. In fact, 63% of voters say we should change the current system so the candidate who receives the most nationwide votes wins. (And Pew re ports over 50% supporting a national vote since at least 2000.) This is the essence of one person-one vote, the core belief in our democracy.

BARBARA

of that state’s electoral votes, re gardless of who wins nationwide. Those who voted for the second-place candidate in each state essentially have their votes discarded once the state’s tally is completed, as all of the state’s electors must vote in the Electoral Colle ge election for their state winner

Yet the Electoral Colle ge methodology used in most states defeats our conviction in one person-one vote: the winner of the popular vote may not secure enough electoral votes to win the presidency. This occurred with 5 of our 46 presidents, the most recent in 2000 and 2016. And there have been two near misses, in 2004 and 2020. With the National Popular Vote Interstate Compact, we can change the current system relatively quickly, so that by 2028 all of our votes will count and the winner of the nationwide popular vote will always win the presidency.

Currently, we don’t really have a single presidential election, we have 51 (each state plus D.C.) When the victor in each state election is called, he or she gets all

This “state-winner take all” method is used in all states and D.C., except for Nebraska and Maine. It is not mandated by the Constitution, which allows States to determine how their electors are ap pointed. “State-winner take all” can lead to a divergent election — the popular vote winner losing the presidency.

The National Popular Vote Interstate Compact is the solution.

The compact is an ag reement between the states to award all their electoral votes to whichever presidential candidate wins the overall popular vote nationwide. The compact ensures that every vote, in every state, will matter in every presidential election. Because the ag reement employs the Electoral College process set forth in the U.S. Constitution, no Constitutional amendment, and thus no lengthy political

Giving up on granite

There is inevitably some face-saving underway. As Oak Park prepares to remove the granite pavers that constitute the crosswalks at Marion Street and South Boulevard and re place them with fancy-colored concrete the word from village government is that no one could have predicted the volume of the car traf fic at the cor ner.

Well, 11 years back, when Marion Street was remade from Lake to Pleasant, the village government already owned the property at Harlem and South and was lusting after a high-rise development for the site. It took a while but eventually Oak Park landed the mostly hideous and entirely gig antic mass of the Eleven33 apar tment complex owned by Lincoln Properties. It came with cars!

Since then three high-rises have risen in downtown Oak Park, there is a mid-rise coming up a block south at the old funeral home property and another mid-rise under construction on Lake across from the library.

Like it or not — and we like it — adding substantial density to the greater downtown Oak Park area has been the plan for 20 years. It’s why the village ke pt overpaying for property.

The simple truth is that the high-end streetscaping on Marion Street was definitely handsome, very expensive and not built to last in the environment Oak Park was working so hard to create.

As further streetscaping has subsequently occurred along Lake Street from Harlem to Euclid, the village learned some lessons. The building materials became more sustainable and more af fordable. Still handsome, still destination-worthy, but not so over-the-top, and likely to last more than a decade.

And it would be worthwhile for village of ficials to simply acknowledge that.

e next trustee

We re port today that at least a dozen people have applied for possible appointment to the Oak Park Village Board. The vacancy exists following the summer resignation of Arti WalkerPeddakotla for reasons of physical and mental health.

Village President Vicki Scaman acknowledged the 12 applications, which the Journal surfaced via a FOIA request. She also said she is considering others who have not officially applied for the post. And, she said, her recommendation to the villa ge board will come during October.

The for mal applicants are an interesting array of women and men with wide-ranging experience in the community and in their professions. One is a for mer trustee, Simone Boutet, looking to re-enter the fray. Many have vital nonprofit experience in the village. Several have a distinct focus on racial equity work

Our preference, as expressed previously, is that the next board member will be a woman of color with progressive leanings. But we are impressed by the number of applicants and their willingness to serve.

As autumn turns toward night

Now are come the days of brown leaves

They fall from the trees, they flutter on the ground,

When the brown leaves flutter they are saying little things.

They talk with the wind.

I hear them tell of their borning days when they did come into the world as leaves. …

Today they were talking of the time be fore their borning days of this springtime.

They talked on and on and I did listen on to

What they were telling the wind and the earth in their whisperings

They told how they were a part of earth and air before their tree-borning days

And now they are going back.

In gray days of winter they go back to the earth again.

But they do not die.

From the diar y of Opal Whiteley, age 6 Sung by Anne Hills, music by Michael Smith

We have clocks to remind us that time drives relentlessly forward, and the sun rises and sets on each day, bookended by dreams. But none of this has quite the impact of the year turning from summer to fall.

For some, the changing season kindles excitement. The cooler air brings them out of their summer tor por. They feel alive again, eager for the holidays ahead.

For me it elicits ele gy. Autumn signals the dying of the life that burst for th so hopefully just six months ago.

Not everything I love is dying, however. On the evening of the autumnal equinox, Anne Hills perfor med in the Veterans Room of the Oak Park Public Library, a welcome reminder of how much I love folk music.

Musical genres maintain an uneasy relationship between words and tune With rap, words are dominant. In opera, the lyrics seldom live up to the emotional exhilaration of an aria. With rock-and roll, words often seem an after thought. Musical theater establishes a better balance, but true fusion takes place in folk music, where melody, voice, and lyrics blend with equal value

Folk songs capture the sacredness of the ordinary, chronicling the lives of the kind of folks Garrison Keillor used to read notes from during Prairie Home Companion. Folk songs — or as Hills calls them, storysongs — celebrate nature and the seasons and our ordinary/extraordinary lives. It feels like tonic.

Other genres have their place and claim on my affections. The previous Saturday, I spent a pleasant hour listening to Nikki Lane, the final act of the

Oaktoberfest celebration in Downtown Oak Park. Louder, bluesier, accompanied and amplified in an outdoor setting, Lane’s forceful voice commanded attention. Very enjoyable.

Hills’ effortless contralto in the more intimate space at the library, meanwhile, was never overpowered by instrumentation (guitar alternating with banjo), and her content was more poetic, less driven by all that remains unresolved in the human heart. Rock-and-roll chronicles the internal storm; folk evokes the calm after. It has more in common with the poet’s solitary daily walk along the ocean, emotion recollected in tranquility (in Wordsworth’s words) and set to music.

And it captures my elegiac mood as each fall ar rives, now intensified by age.

Hills’ appearance was one of a series of folk concerts made possible by Nancy Clark and her late husband Peter, a gift to the community.

We’re not that different, one from another, the songs seem to say, though some of our lives are harder than others. The need to come to gether, to tell and hear stories through song, is ancient, and just as compelling as in our storied past. As our storysong-teller sings, she casts a spell, momentarily elevating our lives to the level of art and universality.

The coming holidays are meaningful partly because we know so many others, in some fashion, will celebrate them too. That’s also why it’s more meaning ful to “go to” movies at a theater instead of watching at home alone. And storysongs have greater impact when we listen to them in a communal setting

Life is richer when we raise our eyes from the sidewalk or from our smartphones and notice that our path has room for multitudes, possibly room for everyone

The year is turning toward winter, the season of deep sleep mimicking death, buffered by autumn, the season of enlivening before the great surrender The seasonal cycle of death and re generation is reassuring in its predictability.

It’s the larger cycle, where our lives are stuck, that remains unresolved in the human heart — until some small hint makes us wonder if, or believe that, there might be a grander re generation awaiting us on the far side of death.

Squirrels fattening up on nuts seem to believe. Sandhill cranes, flying south in November and north again in March, seem to believe. Leaves that burst into color then fall and fade, seem to believe. Roses, still flowering late into autumn, seem to believe.

Storysongs, or songstories, capture our borning days of springtime and whisper softly of re generation yet to come as the year turns toward night.

This is an updated version of a column that first ran on Sept. 28, 2016.

Vote Yes for the environment

Concerned about climate change? Interested in protecting our precious resources of breathable air, drinkable water, and native habitat? Want to create jobs while mitigating local flooding? Here’s a way: in the upcoming midterm election, vote Yes on the referendum to fund the Cook County Forest Preserve (you’ll find this referendum at the bottom of your ballot.)

A property tax increase of 0.025% — which amounts to less than $1.66 a month for most homeowners — will help restore 30,000 acres of forest preserve land to good health. And restoring the health of our forest preserves will make our communities better by:

• making air cleaner to breathe in the Cook County area, reducing health complications such as asthma be cause the forest preserve’s millions of trees are our collective lungs, absorbing pollution and cleaning our air;

• ensuring cleaner water sources and less flooding, because forest preserves filter storm and rainwater, keeping pollution from entering our waterways and re ducing the risk of flooding from heavy rainfall in communities across our area;

• protecting local habitat and wildlife because native wildlife thrives when land and water are conserved.

Voting Yes on this measure will also help create and sustain thousands of jobs and lead to more opportunities for county residents, such as summer jobs and

scholarships for youth, including those from historically underserved communities

The referendum has the support of more than 100 environmental, labor, civic, business, and faith organizations across Cook County — the Illinois Environmental Coalition, The Nature Conservancy, the Trust for Public Land, the Field Museum, the Chicago Botanic Garden, and many more.

Join them and vote Yes to fund the Cook County Forest Preserve on Nov. 8. For more information, visit https://www.voteyesforestpreserves.org.

And please spread the word

Wendy Greenhouse Oak Park

1.3 million summer reading minutes

Thank you to everyone who explored “Oceans of Possibilities,” our kids’ summer reading program theme, at the library. The results are in, and from June through August we can re port families (both local and as far away as California and Oregon):

■ Lo gged 1,382,435 minutes of reading;

■ Completed 8,598 activities, and;

EILEEN SAAM & GENEVIEVE GROVE

One View

owner) can get a card for complete access to public library services and resources.

WEDNESD AY

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

Staff Photographers Alex Rogals, Shanel Romain

Viewpoints Editor Ken Trainor

Real Estate Editor Lacey Sikora

Big Week Editor James Porter

Columnists Marc Bleso , Jack Crowe, Doug Deuchler, Harriet Hausman, Mary Kay O’Grady, Kwame Salter, John Stanger, 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 Gre n Treasurer Nile Wendorf Deb Abrahamson, Gary Collins, Darnell Shields, Sheila Solomon, Eric Weinheimer

About Viewpoints

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

■ Earned 20,000+ beads and stickers as prizes.

With an Oak Park collection of more than 230,000 physical and digital children’s items, as well as 120 activities in six categories (art, stories, music, nature, body and mind, and science) to choose from, there was something for everyone to explore. Nearly 1,500 kids (age 3 through rising ninth-graders) participated.

While this particular program ended Aug. 31, the library has so much to keep reading and learning fun for everyone of all ages, all year long. Here are four ways to take advantage of free library services and resources:

1. September is #LibraryCardSignupMonth. So if you haven’t already, be sure to get and use your library card. Oak Park is home to a library for everyone. Every Oak Park resident of every age (as well as every teacher, daycare provider, and business

2. Use library apps hoopla and Libby. Check out and dive into new library materials at any time, from anywhere. When you can’t come into the library, your library meets you where you are. Or if you cannot find the title you want on the shelf, check these apps for a digital version. You can place holds, stream immediately, and download for later use. To learn more, visit oppl.org/ hoopla and oppl.org/libby. Or ask us; we offer that support, too.

3. Listen to digital audiobooks — great for all ages. Hearing stories on hoopla and Libby is a great way to enjoy new content. Just like with ebooks, you can stream or download titles to listen to later. We love listening while in the car, on a walk, and when doing chores around the house.

4. Eng age younger readers with animated, talking picture books. TumbleBookLibrary offers a fun collection. Get started at oppl.org/tumblebooks.

We love helping families connect with books they want to read and making learning fun. We hope we see you at the library soon!

Saam and Grove are children’s librarians at the Oak Park Public Library. Learn more at oppl.org/kids.

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

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

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

LETTER TO THE EDITOR

■ 250-word limit

■ Must include rst and last names, municipality in which you live, phone number (for veri cation 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

HOW TO REACH US

ADDRESS 141 S Oak Park Ave., Oak ParkIL 60302 ■ PHONE 708-5248300

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A one-year subscription costs $48 within Cook County and $60 outside of Cook County Adver tising rates may be obtained by calling our o ce. 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.

OPRF needs objective measures

The Wednesday Journal editorial, “Believe in our students” [Viewpoints, Sept. 21], reflects an inap propriate political agenda. A defense ofOPRF’s de tracking — sterilely labelled “freshman curriculum restructuring” — the editorial implicitly acknowledges it will lower scores on national standardized tests (sour-graped as “suspect anyhow”).

WJ asks us to ignore tests and instead measure success in “the self-confidence and resilience of Black and Brown students.” But where to find a barometer for resilience or self-confidence? We cannot because these are not objective measures. After proposing such subjective evaluation criteria, WJ claims “we all need to be on board for the long haul.” I disagree.

As a for mer OPRF District 200 school board president who consistently championed effor ts to improve education for all students, and particularly for disadvantaged groups, I never supported de-tracking. The data didn’t support it. De-tracking was ar ro gant virtue signaling, with little evidence supporting it as a solution to disparate achievement. Data indicated that de-tracking had failed in other districts, most notably nearby in Evanston. OPRF adopted it anyhow. Now a board member has appropriately requested a status re port. I ag ree. Ifthis experi-

ment is to continue, a positive impact must be demonstrated with objective data.

I applaud Fred Arkin, the only board member demanding data to evaluate this ef fort. Arkin requested to see facts that demonstrate that detracking improves student learning, or at least that it doesn’t harm it. Disparate outcomes on national standardized tests were key evidence that justified de-tracking in the first place. Test scores cannot be discarded as factors simply because they don’t support measures the board chose to adopt. These or other objective factors must indicate that de-tracking does not diminish lear ning, or we should abandon it.

Our communities must help all students suc ceed, not make some appear to succeed, or make them feel like they are succeeding. Feelings aren’t facts. We need objective measures ofstudent perfor mance, including national standardized test scores measuring colle ge readiness, and numbers ofNational Merit Scholarship semifinalists (three this year, down from 22 just six years ago).

Confidence and resilience, which this paper would rely upon, are not the primary goal of education. The goal of education is lear ning

John Phelan River Forest

Opossums are OK

Re garding Kris Hansen’s idea of opossums to deter rats: that’s an excellent suggestion.

The estimate ofbird loss stated in her letter is truly disturbing. I wonder, though, if pesticides and herbicides that humans seem to feel they need to use have affected bird population. Birds need potable water, insects, berries, and seeds to eat, and safe places for their nests.

All these things are affected by poisons that humans use.

Personally, I’ve had feral cats living happily by my house. I also had a very popular bird feeder. Never did I see a dead bird. The cats were way more interested in chipmunks, and never did I have a single mouse in my house

Jayne Gould River Forest

Russia’s shame

What is the power oftruth and disapproval? A few years ago, I was speaking with a woman from Krasnodar, Russia. She told me she had voted for the current Russian president and would vote for him again. The fact is that the people of Russia voted for a president who has committed a large crime.

I have seen many YouTube videos that show Russian citizens basical-

ly disconnecting themselves from their own government. The Russian people put this criminal into office, and this crime is their responsibility.

Ideally, every Russian citizen should see before and after pictures oftheir country’s “contribution” to humanity.

Robert Sullivan Oak Park

Funding OPRF’s Project 2 should go to referendum

An open letter to the District 200 High School board:

I am dismayed to lear n that your bond consultant, Elizabeth Hennessy, is again suggesting nonreferendum bonds and/or debt certificates to fund capital projects, including the unnecessarily expensive Project 2. Since the Community Finance Committee rejected the issuance of debt cer tificates to pay for the Ten-Year Maintenance Plan in February, I take Hennessy’s latest suggestion as evidence that you are strenuously attempting to avoid a referendum on funding the proposed Project 2. This in turn strongly suggests that you don’t think you have enough community suppor t to pass it.

The solution here should not be avoiding a referendum, at the cost of still greater damage to the high school’s relationship with taxpayers and considerable extra expense. Funding for major capital proj-

Librar y should keep daily print newspapers

My husband Victor and I totally ag ree with Pe gg y Conlon-Madig an (Sept. 14 letter to the editor), that the removal of daily print newspapers at the Oak Park Main Library does not car ry out the library’s Stewardship Objective #2: “We provide broad, ef fective and equitable access to resources.”

Actually, we were quite taken aback when we heard about this ill-conceived plan. Why, in this time of misinfor mation and disinformation unduly influencing people, would Oak Park want to de prive people of real investigative re porting?! Maybe the library needs more community programs involving print newspapers. I star ted reading the New York Times when I was a teen and still read it. What about people who don’t have online access or those who experience eye strain from being online? Surely, we want to sup por t good newspapers and not contribute to their financial strain.

Don’t do this, Oak Park Library Board!

Iris Yipp Oak Park

ects should rightfully go before taxpayers for approval in a transparently worded refe rendum. Re garding Project 2, the solution should be to scale back the spend

JUDITH ALEXANDER

One View

T he obvious and best solution is to team up with the park district and enclose the Ridgeland Common pool, adding locker rooms and showers as needed. The community would welcome such cooperation, as you know from the universally positive response to your sharing the park dis trict’s turf field. We are frustrated by the high school’s continued unwillingness to pursue this option. You tur ned down a park district of fer to share the pool a few years ago. And solutions proposed by the Imagine Group were required to lie within the footprint of the school’s campus. No of f-campus options were even to

be considered. Why?

Walking across the street may seem less convenient, but students already do so to use the Lake Street field. To minimize inconvenience, swim classes could be of fere d before or after school, or on weekends. Swimming could be of fered as an extended two-period class. OPRF High School could drop its mandatory 12-week swimming requirement for incoming students who already know how to swim, reducing swim class demand by about half For those who can’ t swim, a focused three- or four-week water safety program could be adopted. This approach is working at a Glenbard high school and elsewhere.

Why not implement such options? “We’ve always done it this way” is not a good answer.

An enclosed Ridgeland Common pool would be a resource everyone can use year-round. It would open up a lot of space in our space-constrained high school. And it would obviate the need to tear down part of a structurally-sound building. T he community cer tainly would appreciate this sensible approach and reduced cost, making it much more likely that your referendum would pass Debt certificates are an even worse approach than non-referendum bonds. T hey are a last-resort funding measure, involving even more expensive debt ser vice. Please vote ag ainst non-referendum approaches to funding major high school capital projects

Taxpayers in the district should have the oppor tunity to vote on them. It’s our money. It’s our school.

Judith Alexander is a longtime Oak Pa rk resident and taxpayer.

Kribi is coming to town

Cof fee has become a lifeline for me (though I was raised as a tea drinker). Besides a great taste, it’s an incredible antioxidant.

Counter Cof fee in Forest Park has been a family friend to our palate mainly because they have gluten-free donuts. So it was to my sur prise when in 2019 in the last days of the “real world,” before the pandemic hit, I was able to get a glance at the newly named Kribi Coffee before hunker ing down indoors. Even the facade had changed. It looked very “ethnic,” very lively, sticking out li ke a glorious sore thumb. I stopped in to see what was going on as soon as I was released from the COVID cage

One View

on site and my donut, I have calculated I have re duced my carbon footprint by at least 50% (migh t be an exaggeration) by eliminating making two stops. Kribi has essentially changed my life

Team Blonde, the for mer management compan y, sold Counter Coffee to Jacques Shalo, a businessman from Cameroon. He redefined the vibe of the cor ner building at Circle and Madison. T he advice for Jacques to open a coffee house came directly from Zev Sie gl, co-founder of Starbucks a year after he sent him a letter asking for advice and mentorship. Jacques transfor med the vibe of Counter Coffee and the coffee

Kribi Coffee now has a patented air roaster where people can roast their own coffee on site from the green coffee bean. It puts us in charge of our coffee! Patrons select from fair trade green coffee beans, sustainably picked by Cameroonian far mers. They ship it from the town of Kribi, a resor t and import town in Cameroon, to Chicago, making its way to Kribi Coffee in Forest Park

My routine was to get donuts at Counter Coffee, and then dash down the block to Starbucks to get my coffee to complete my donut and co ffee experience. With Kribi coffee

Jacques was raised in a lar ge family as one of the youngest, by a charitable and entrepre neurial matriarch on the family co ffee farm in Cameroon. He enlisted family and far mers at a live-able wage, to help create the Kribi brand. After acquir ing Counter Coffee, and a warehouse facility in Elmhurst, he lost some customers. He therefore thought it necessary to build relationships with clientele With a more inviting coffee house, reduced cost per bag, and successful taste tests, it was clear the process was better

This led to exce ptional growth through the pandemic as people were able to come to Kribi and roast their own coffee.

Now Jacques is expanding after becoming a milliondollar business. Kribi Coffee was also selected by Oak Park to open a location in early October, in what will be the newly built Focus building in Oak Pa rk, across from Poor Phil’s restaurant. The customer will be in charge of the brand here too, in the African spirit of Ubuntu, an African proverb that means, “If we are going to get there, we will g et there to g ether.”

He is actively raising capital for those who want to be owners in the Kribi Coffee experience by launching a campaign in Se ptember and October. If you would like to own part of the Kribi Coffee franchise, you can reach him at Jacques@kribicof fee.com.

EL Serumaga is a resident of Ri v er Forest and Founder of ecovici.com

e proof of the pudding is in the eating

Re ply to the Se pt. 14 editorial, “News as a weapon of the right”:

The Fox family of programming has found a business plan that is overwhelming the news media business The Wednesday Jour nal accuses them of editorial dis honesty without a shred of proof of their accusations. You have made the claim and I am challenging you to defend your position with some references and examples You also find fault with the people who back conservative positions yet stay strangely silent when George Soros’ name comes up — a tad hypocritical I would say.

My grandfather came to the United States after WWI and joined the ar my to get his citizenship. As a high school student (Riverside-Brookfield H.S., 1956) I would sit with him at our picnic table and talk politics Seventy-five years later my beliefs in small, limited gover nment have not changed at all. Those of you who have adopted the woke progressive mindset have moved so far to the left tha t we are no longer visible and you believe our philosophy has changed — it has not!

HAUSMAN

A spoiled child

from page 25

appropriate cooperation, Trump outrageously criticized the FBI and the Justice Depart ment, claiming his home was raided and his property was taken. This distortion, along with Trump’s rhetoric, incited a violent response from some of his followers

Lest we are blindsided by Trump’s antics, this is not child’s play, and the stakes couldn’t be higher. Trump has placed our nation in great jeopardy.

At some point, a judge allowed some of the gover nment information held at Mar-a Lago to be publicly revealed. To the public’s amazement, the papers were not in any order, and at least 40 of the folders marked “classified” were empty. Others marked “top secret” had been opened and were most likely viewed. One of these top-secret folders revealed a foreign nation’s nuclear infor mation. No doubt our allies feel they can no longer trust us, and the danger to our own national security is evident.

Your editorial mentions West Cook News in a dero gatory light, so I recovered my most recent issue for a more complete re view. I find that I like seeing local football players who are going to colle ge teams, which local grade schools are succeeding and which are failing their students academically and socially. Reading the “Pub lishers Notes” I find that they are aiming to “Speak with the community not at them” a worthy goal that the Wednesday Jour nal should aspire to. Their explanation of the SAFE-T le gislation would make your blood boil.

So speaking from the right, I write to voice my commitment to honoring your right to hate and speak badly of whoever you choose, but be aware that we have the constitutional right to believe whatever we like and stand tall in defense of our beliefs. The Fox team is winning in every ratings category and they are profitable. I have not ever seen a hear tfelt plea for funds to help them survive.

Ray Simpson Oak Park

In Trump’s lawyers’ attempt to delay the Justice Department investigation of Trump’s actions, they requested a “Special Master” to review the gover nment’s findings. It is interesting to note that Trump sought out an inexperienced federal judge from Norther n Florida whom he appointed to that position in 2020 after the election for a favorable decision on the master review.

Using Mafia tactics, he recently encour aged some of his followers to threaten the judge who issued the warrant, and also his family, his associates, and members of the FBI. Sadly, there has already been a death: an ardent Trump follower who tried to kill FBI workers. It is as true today as it was with the January 6th insurrection of our Capitol, that Trump could contain frenzied rioters if he chose to do so

On the Labor Day holiday weekend, Trump spoke at a rally to further influence and encourage his followers with his dis torted views about the gover nment records. His followers carried signs, “Save America.”

This slogan is the name of a fundraising pact that has already collected over $250 million, supposedly ear marked for the 2024 campaign. Fraudulently, most of this money has disappeared. Is this the saving of America?

‘Trumplicans’ vs. ‘Republicans’

Your latest column on neutrality [Ken Trainor, Viewpoints, Se pt. 21] got me thinking.

I have a suggestion that might clarify discussions involving Re publican voters and politicians.

Use the ter m “Trumplican” for the far ir rational right.

For Democrats, don’t say Re publican when you really mean “Trumplican” which would not insult the many fine Re publicans who helped keep our 2020 elec tion free of fraud. Using “Trumplican” would not demean the Re publicans courageously testifying before the January 6 Committee.

For GOP Re publicans, they could at tack “Trumplicans” without being dis

loyal to the Re publican Party, which quietly waits in the shadows hoping the stor m will pass

Using the ter m “Trumplican” would enable people to speak more freely and accurately without including true Re publicans in attacks. “Trumplican” must not be applied to conservatives, but only to people who believe that threats and vio lence trumps democracy.

“Trumplicans” are almost the antithesis of Re publicans re garding facts, ra tional thinking, rule of law and protecting our Constitution from all enemies foreign and domestic. I got the ter m from a site I read.

Rob Kleps Oak Park

Trump has no moral compass

You can count on it. Every time ex-President Trump’s actions have come under scrutiny, he insists, “I did nothing wrong!”

Whether at the federal, state, or local level, everything he has ever done is above re proach, according to him. Pick just one example: The value of his properties is inflated to justify borrowing more money from banks and deflated to justify paying less in taxes. That’s on the record, along with so many other blatant crimes Maybe the legalities can be warped and twisted to get him out of jail, or bankruptcy.

But “wrong” has a moral as well as legal meaning. It’s broader and deeper. Trump’s definition seems to hinge on whether a particular action favors his bottom line or his

PATERICK

Let the most votes win

from page 25

process, is required

The compact will go into ef fect when states re presenting at least 270 (the majority) electoral votes adopt the le gislation. With 270 electoral votes committed to the winner of the nationwide popular vote, the popular vote winner and the electoral colle ge winner are identical.

Cur rently, 15 states and D.C. have ad opted le gislation to join the Compact.

hold on power or opposes it. The Golden Rule comes down to us in the Bible and from the wider ancient cultures: “Do unto others as you would have them do unto you.” And Jeremy Bentham (1748-1832, English), speaking as a philosopher, not a theologian, bases ethics on “the greatest good for the greatest number.”

Clearly, both of these guidelines are foolish in Trump’s mind, and always have been. His only concer n is his self-interest. He has no moral compass

It could not be more obvious that he is totally unfit to hold any kind of office, least of all the presidency.

Fred Reklau Oak Park

To gether, they re present 195 electoral votes. Only 75 more are needed.

Illinois passed the law in 2008, so we can use our ef for ts and resources to educate and help our neighbor states get the billed passed. With 63% of Americans in favor, we can do it. We must do it to preserve our democracy

Barbara Paterick is a new resident of Oak Park and a grassroots volunteer with nationalpopularvote.com, who works with the Lea gue of Women Voters on promoting their position supporting the National Popular Vote Interstate Compact as one acce ptable way to achiev e the goal of the direct popular vote for election of the president.

Charlie Schumacher, 62

Producer for TV news

Charles Ward Schumacher, 62, of River Forest, died on Sept. 22, after a battle against colon cancer. Throughout his struggl e, his spirit remained, as a close friend put it, “on brand with who Charlie was, a loveable, gentle and kind human.”

Born in Champaign, Illinois and an Eagle Scout, he graduated from Champaign Central High School, and the University of Illinois, with a B.A. in political science.

While at the U of I, he was a DJ on WPGU, the colle ge radio station, and after graduation, he went into journalism. As a producer for CNN, he covered Re publican and Democratic National Conventions, was in China during the Tiananmen Square Massacre, supervised the channel’s coverage of the OJ Simpson chase and arrest, and the 1990 Gulf War.

He then became an executive producer at WFLD-Fox 32 in Chicago, and was producer of their 9 p.m. newscast. After five years, he became assistant news director at WGN-TV and, later, the senior news director at Comcast SportsNet. He ended his journalism career as a re porter/managing

editor at Rivet Radio, and returned to his first love, photo graphy, by starting his own photo graphy business.

Throughout his life, he remained passionate about music and vintage audio, sports, motorcycle touring, and sports cars. In recent years, he spent his time restoring and driving his orange MG convertible around the streets of the River Forest-Oak Park area, and spent many hours playing tennis at the River Forest Tennis Club.

Above all, he loved and was absolutely devoted to his two children, Kate and Will.

Charlie is survived by his parents, Larry and Elaine Schumacher; his children, Kate and Will Schumacher, and their mother, Florence Hackman-Schumacher; his brothers, John Schumacher (Carol Stack) and William Schumacher (Paula) and his sister, Lisa Simpson (David), as well as many nieces and nephews.

As Charlie was known for hosting epic celebrations that marked his gregarious, outgoing nature, and as he neither deserved nor would have wanted a somber, subdued remembrance, an appropriate celebration of his life will be announced at a later date. Ever the Illini at heart, he will be laid to rest at Mt. Hope Cemetery in Champaign, along the extended 40-yard line of nearby Memorial Stadium.

Donations can be made in his memory to: Illini Media Alumni Network, 1001 S. Wright Street, Champaign 61820.

Arrangements were handled by Peterson-Bassi Chapels. For more information, call 708-848-6661.

Daniel Moore, 88

Alaska Supreme Court justice

Retired state of Alaska Supreme Court Justice Daniel A. Moore, 88, for merly of Anchorage and Oak Park, died peacefully,

at Meridian Park Hospital in Wilsonville, Oregon, from COVID-19 complications. He graduated from Ascension Elementary and attended Fenwick High School, graduating from Cathedral High in Duluth, Minnesota, and Notre Dame University, class of 1955. He spent two years in the Marine Corps, then graduated from Denver Law School.

A prominent defense attorney in Alaska for 20 years, he ser ved two years as a Superior Court judge and 12 years on the Alaska Supreme Court, retiring as Chief Justice in 1995. His great pride was helping law clerks as they launched their law careers. He had a big heart and always wanted the best for family and friends.

Dan is survived by Pat, his wife of 58 years, his son, Danny (Stephanie); his granddaughters, Maddy and Elise; his siblings, Kay Dutton (Chuck), Mike (the late Patti), and Mary Helen; and many nieces & ne phews. He was preceded in death by his daughter, Brideen; his parents, Dan & Irma; his siblings, George (Dorothey and the late Jeneane), Pat Walle (Dennis), Nancy Lopez (the late Ramon), Tim (Jennifer) and Jim (Ann).

Funeral Mass will be celebrated at St. Cyril in Wilsonville, Oregon on Oct. 8. Burial will be private

Peter Gabay, 93

Korean vet, avid bowler and Cubs fan

Peter James Gabay Jr., 93, of Elmhurst, died on Aug. 29, 2022. Born on March 20, 1929 in Berwyn, to Peter Sr. and Emma (Michalec) Gabay, he was a union construction worker, specializing in reinforced concrete, building many skyscrapers in the Chicago area. He was also an employee of Teitelbaum Construction Company and a 50-plus-year member of the Chicago Re gional Council of the Carpenters Union. He was also a Gold Card member of the Veterans of Foreign Wars.

He served overseas in the Korean War as a tank commander of the 89th Medium Tank Battalion, C Company and named his tank “Chicago.” He wore his Korea Veteran ball cap everywhere and even maintained a couple of 50-plus-year friendships with members of his unit. His greatest joy was participating in the Lake County Honor Flight and seeing the Korean War Memorial in Washington D.C., bringing his service full circle.

A simple man, he loved cabbage pies, grapes, cherries, pork, dumplings and sauerkraut and every end cut he could snitch of a turkey or roast fresh out of the oven.

He loved fishing, with bullhead his fish of choice. A very competitive man, he played a mean card game of Crazy Eights, with few ever able to beat him. Bowling was another passion. As a young adult, he was an amateur bowler with the American Bowling Congress (ABC), competing in New Orleans, Texas and Chicago. He had quite a hook. Well into his 80s he was still able to practice his skills and beat everyone at mini-bowling. He was also competitive in several softball leagues and lo ved baseball. The Chicago Cubs were his life-long team. As a child he would often skip school to take the train downtown for opening day. He died listening to a Cubs game on the radio.

He was always where help was needed. The importance of his handshake was his strongest belief. Even at 93 he had the grip of a 20-year-old. As many have described him, he was a “true gentleman.”

Peter’s five daughters were among his proudest accomplishments.

He is survived by Joann, his wife of 67 years; his daughters, Joni, Vicki, Susan (Scott), Gina (Richard), and Korynne (Jef frey); his five grandchildren, Shawn (Mary Anne), Damien, Xavier, Ashley (Mike), Maria; two great-grandchildren, Gianna and Cora; and many cousins, nieces, nephews and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents, his sister Charlotte (Jack), his sons-in-law, Toti and Randy, and his granddaughter, Xara.

Private inter ment will take place at Abraham Lincoln National Cemetery, Elwood, Illinois.

Kevin Kopicki

contributing to the Congregation’s mission through the smooth and effective accounting of Unity Temple’s financial ledgers and is responsible for journal entries and balance sheets. Working with the Director of Finance & Administration, the Bookkeeper will prepare statements, investigate and clear discrepancies, compile reports and analyses of accounts and update congregational pledge data.

org/job -postings/. To apply, send a cover letter and résumé to jobs@ unitytemple.org indicating “Nursery Supervisor / Childcare Coordinator” in the subject line.

CUSTOMER SERVICE

REPRESENTATIVE II

HELP WANTED

OFFICE ASSISTANT

Core Competencies

- Accounting principles

- Bookkeeping procedures

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,

HELP WANTED • NETWORK SPECIALIST

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.

Unity Temple Unitarian Universalist Congregation is looking for a part time Office Assistant. The Office Assistant plays a key role in contributing to the Congregation’s mission through the smooth and effective running of Unity Temple’s administrative and office needs. Working with the Director of Finance & Administration, sitting at the front desk and welcoming visitors, managing the congregational calendar, ensuring the procurement of supplies and supporting the rental program of our historic and culturally renowned buildings is the focus for this position.

Core Competencies

-Organization and Planning: Organizes people, funding, materials, and support to accomplish multiple, concurrent goals and activities.

-Vision and Purpose: Commitment to and knowledge of Unitarian Universalist Principles and values (see Support for the Mission and Values of the Congregation below)

-Trust and Integrity: Is widely trusted to keep confidences, admit errors, and adhere to a transparent set of personal and professional values that are congruent with the ministry of the congregation.

Proficiencies: Google Workspace, specifically Google Drive, organizational skills with a strong detail orientation, ability to communicate with a variety of different people, familiarity with CRM software is a plus (UTUUC uses Realm).

You can find more information about the position at https://unitytemple. org/job-postings/. To apply, send a cover letter and résumé to jobs@ unitytemple.org indicating “Office Assistant” in the subject line.

BOOKKEEPER

Unity Temple Unitarian Universalist Congregation is looking for a part time Bookkeeper.

Hours: 15 hours/week Sept – December 2022, then 10 hours/week as of 1/1/2023

The Bookkeeper plays a key role in

River

- Vision and Purpose: Commitment to and knowledge of Unitarian Universalist Principles and values (see Support for the Mission and Values of the Congregation below)

-Trust and Integrity: Is widely trusted to keep confidences, admit errors, and adhere to a transparent set of personal and professional values that are congruent with the ministry of the congregation.

Proficiencies: Quickbooks Online (certification is a plus but not required), Google Workspace (specifically Google Drive), organizational skills with a strong detail orientation, ability to communicate with a variety of different people, familiarity with CRM software is a plus.

You can find more information about the position at https://unitytemple. org/job-postings/. To apply, send a cover letter and résumé to jobs@unitytemple.org indicating “Bookkeeper” in the subject line.

NURSERY SUPERVISOR AND CHILDCARE COORDINATOR

Unity Temple Unitarian Universalist Congregation is looking for a warm, welcoming and experienced Nursery Supervisor and Childcare Coordinator to work with the youngest among us on Sunday mornings in the nursery as well as coordinate babysitting for congregational events outside of Sunday mornings. This is one job with two different roles. As Nursery Supervisor, this person will provide a compassionate and consistent presence in caring for our babies and toddlers during the Sunday morning worship service times, supervise, train and schedule other nursery staff, maintain the nursery as a safe and clean environment, welcome and orient new families to the nursery, and build relationships with and communicate effectively with parents. The nursery hours are Sundays from 9:30–11:30am, and approximately one hour outside of Sunday morning worship service.

You can find more information about the position at https://unitytemple.

Public

The Village of Oak Park is seeking qualified candidates for the position of Customer Service Representative II in the Development Customer Services Department. This position provides customer service to the public by providing a variety of responsible and difficult customer service and receptionist work including high volume telephone traffic; and to perform the more difficult and complex customer service duties depending on the department including but not limited to service requests, permits, parking passes, block party permits, accounts payable processing and vehicle stickers. This position is crosstrained with the other Customer Service Representative IIs in the Village.

Applicants are encouraged to visit the Village of Oak Park’s website at http://www.oak-park.us/jobs.

Interested and qualified applicants must complete a Village of Oak Parkapplication. First review of applications October 5, 2022.

The Metropolitan Water Reclamation District of Greater Chicago will be accepting applications for the following classification(s):

Engineering Draftsman II (Original)

Engineering Draftsman III (Original)

Administrative Specialist (Original)

Principal Environmental Scientist (Original)

Additional information regarding salary, job description, requirements, etc. can be found on the District’s website at www.districtjobs.org or call 312-751-5100.

An Equal Opportunity EmployerM/F/D

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.

EMERGENCY PREPAREDNESS AND RESPONSE COORDINATOR

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.oak-park.us/ jobs. Interested and qualified applicants must complete a Village of Oak Park application. First review of applications will be August 5, 2022.

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.oakpark.us/jobs

GRANTS COORDINATOR

The Village of Oak Park is seeking qualified candidates for the position of Grants Coordinator in the Development Customer Service Department. This position will develop and coordinate CDBG and other grant-funded programs for the department; coordinates assigned activities with other departments and outside agencies; and to provide highly responsible and complex staff assistance to the Development Customer Services Neighborhood Services Division Manager and department director. Applicants are encouraged to visit the Village of Oak Park’s website http://www.oak-park. us/jobs. Interested and qualified applicants must complete a Village of Oak Park application.

Teachers and Teacher Aides, $130-$150 per day!

FLEXIBLE Schedule between the hours of 7:50a - 3:20pm

Work one day a week or up to 5 days a week, half days or full days

Responsibilities:

The On-Call Substitute will work in place of the individual he/she will be temporarily replacing during the scheduled day. This individual may also be asked to perform other duties as required in relation to the substituting assignment.

Qualifications:

One of the following licenses:

• Professional Educator License (PEL)

• Substitute Teaching License (Bachelor’s degree required; beginning January 2023 enrolled in an IL approved educator program & have completed 90

semesters hours of coursework)

• Short-term Substitute License (Associate’s degree or at least 60 college credit hours)

• Educator License with Stipulations

• Paraprofessional License (Associate’s degree required)

• Short-term Paraprofessional License (High School Diploma w/3 years to work towards obtaining Paraprofessional license.)

Apply online at: www.district90.org/about/employment

HELP WANTED

(Colt Internet US Corp - Chicago, IL w/ option to work remotely in any location nationally)

Sales

Act as the customer facing technical specialist for bespoke Asian fin’l mkt connectivity solutions. Define technical specification of any 3rd party reqmts & solutions. Reqts: Bach in any field, + 5 yrs of exp in the position offd, or as a Solutions Consultant, Project Mgr, or rel. Must have 5 yrs of exp w/all the following: Dsgng or implmtg exchange connectivity & electronic trading infrastructure solutions for customers trading in Asian fin’l mkts; Working w/ low latency electronic trading tech infrastructure, incl specialist server h/ware, & specialist n/work switches & routers, FPGA appliances, & accurate timestamping solutions; Dsgng or implmtg solutions for fin’l svcs customers utilizing telecommunications data connectivity products incl wide area n/working tech (WAN), optical transmission tech, carrier Ethernet, multiprotocol label switching (MPLS), Internet access, Cloud connectivity, IP addressing, routers, switches, & firewalls; Working w/in stock exchange IT infrastructure incl trade engines, order routing platforms, mkt data protocols, risk mgmt platforms, customer connectivity options, licensing & reporting reqmts, regulatory reqmts, & exchange & colocation envrmts; Dsgng or implmtg Asian Exchange Access solutions for US based customers, incl working & liaising w/ the Japanese Stock Exchange (JPX) on their behalf; Working w/ key Asian fin’l mkts incl Singapore Stock Exchange (SGX), Hong Kong Stock Exchange (HKEX), Korean Stock Exchange (KRX), Australian Stock Exchange (ASX), Taiwanese Stock Exchange (TWSE), & Asian foreign currency (FOREX) trading venues, liquidity providers & platforms; Dsgng or implmtg low latency electronic trading infrastructure solutions for customers trading SGX, HKEX, KRX, ASX, JPX & TWSE mkts; Dsgng or deploying China fin’l mkts connectivity solutions for foreign firms, incl Shanghai (SSE), Shenzen (SZE), Shanghai Futures Exchange (CFX). Up to 10% travel req. To apply go to https://joblistings.colt.net/ & search Job ID 32054. EOE.

Software Engineer sought by Amount, Inc. in Chicago, IL. to Work with other engineers and technical product managers to write, test, and deploy your code safely and automatically to production. Telecommuting permitted. Apply at jobpostingtoday.com Ref# 43057.

OFFICE/RETAIL FOR RENT

Sq.

PARK,

(END

Condition. Recently

traffic location. Ideal for: CLEANERS, FAST FOOD, RETAIL PRODUCTS, OFFICES, ETC.! (SPACE FOR A DRIVE-THRU BUILD)

Rates.

If Leave message, Include:

Phone Number and Type

TEXT or CALL: (708)828-6491

James • 630-201-8122

WANTED TO BUY

WANTED MILITARY ITEMS: Helmets, medals, patches, uniforms, weapons, flags, photos, paperwork, Also toy soldiers – lead, plastic –other misc. toys.

Corvette, Ferrari’s,

Call Uncle Gary 708-522-3400

YARD SALE

CITY RENTALS

WOODWORK

PUBLIC NOTICES

PUBLIC NOTICE

Notice is hereby given, pursuant to “An Act in relation to the use of an Assumed Business Name in the conduct or transaction of Business in the State,” as amended, that a certification was registered by the undersigned with the County Clerk of Cook County. Registration Number: Y22009637 on September 9, 2022 Under the Assumed Business Name of ZOYPHCO with the business located at: 815 LATHROP AVE, FOREST PARK, IL 60130. The true and real full name(s) and residence address of the owner(s)/partner(s) is: ZOEPHIA VICTORIA LAUGHLIN 815 LATHROP AVE FOREST PARK, IL 60130, USA

Published in Forest Park Review September 14, 21, 28, 2022

LEGAL NOTICE

IN THE SUPERIOR COURT OF THE STATE OF ARIZONA IN AND FOR THE COUNTY OF MARICOPA NO. FN2022-091197

SUMMONS (Domestic Relations)

In re the Marriage of TEARA DYNAE CARPENTER, Petitioner, and TYISHA PENNINAH MARSHALL, Respondent, THE STATE OF ARIZONA

TO THE ABOVE NAMED RESPONDENT, YOU ARE HEREBY SUMMONED and required to appear and defend in the above entitled action within TWENTY (20) DAYS, exclusive of the date of service, if served within the State of Arizona, or within THIRTY (30) DAYS, exclusive of the date of service, if service is made without the State of Arizona. If service is made by publication, service is complete THIRTY (30) DAYS after the date of FIRST PUBLICATION and you must appear and defend within THIRTY (30) DAYS thereafter.

In order to appear and defend, you must file a proper response or answer in writing with the Clerk of this Court, accompanied by the required filing fee. Failure to appear and defend will result in judgment by default being rendered against you for the relief requested in the Petition. You are required by law to serve a copy of your response or answer upon the Petitioner, and such response or answer should be addressed as follows: TEARA DYNAE CARPENTER 99 W PALOMINO DR APT 173 CHANDLER, AZ 85225 If service is made by publication, a copy of the Petition and other papers filed in this matter may be obtained from the Clerk of this Court whose address is as follows: CLERK OF SUPERIOR COURT 201 W. JEFFERSON ST PHOENIX, AZ 85003 Request for reasonable accommodation for persons with disabilities must be made to the Court by parties at least three working days in advance of a scheduled court proceeding.

SIGNED AND SEALED this date: 08/18/2022, CHRISTOPHER COURY, Clerk /s K. CLARK, Deputy Clerk

Published in Wednesday Journal September 14, 21, 28, October 5, 2022

PUBLIC NOTICE

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that on 17 October 2022, at 7:00 P.M. in the Council Chambers of the Village Hall, 517 Desplaines Avenue, Forest Park, Illinois, the Planning and Zoning Commission will conduct a public hearing to consider a text amendment to Title 9 of the Forest Park Zoning Ordinance to add a Permitted Variation. Additionally, there will be a public hearing for a variation request to allow the resubdivision of two adjacent lots, under common ownership, on the following described properties(s):

Parcel 1:

LOT 7 (EXCEPT THE NORTH 30 FEET) AND LOT 6 (EXCEPT THE SOUTH 56 FEET) IN BLOCK 7 IN RAILROAD ADDITION TO HARLEM IN THE SOUTH EAST 1/4 OF SECTION 12, TOWNSHIP 39 NORTH, RANGE 12 EAST OF THE THIRD PRINCIPAL MERIDIAN, IN COOK COUNTY, ILLINOIS.

Commonly known as 118 Rockford Street, Forest Park, IL

Parcel 2:

THE SOUTH 56 FEET OF LOT 6 IN BLOCK 7 IN RAILROAD ADDITION TO HARLEM, BEING A SUBDIVISION IN THE SOUTH EAST QUARTER OF SECTION 12, TOWNSHIP 39 NORTH, RANGE 12, EAST OF THE THIRD PRINCIPAL MERIDIAN IN COOK COUNTY, ILLINOIS.

Commonly known as 7515-7521 Dixon Street, Forest Park, IL

PINs: 15-13-407-026-0000, 15-13407-034-0000, 15-12-407-018-0000

The applicant is Jerome Olson.

Signed: Marsha East, Chair Planning and Zoning Commission

Published in Forest Park Review September 28, 2022

PUBLIC NOTICES

PUBLIC NOTICE

STATE OF WISCONSIN CIRCUIT COURT

WALWORTH COUNTY

Plaintiff CURT PATRICK

158 W. Whitewater Street Whitewater WI 53190

-vsDefendant DOMINIQUE SOOKIKIAN 517 S. Lombard Avenue Oak Park IL 60304

Publication Summons And Notice (Small Claims)

Case No: 2022SC000634

If you require reasonable accommodations due to a disability to participate in the court process, please call 262-741-7012 at least 10 working days prior to the scheduled court date. Please note that the court does not provide transportation.

Publication Summon and Notice of Filing

TO THE PERSON(S) NAMED ABOVE AS DEFENDANT(S): You are being sued by the person(s) named above as Plaintiff(s). A copy of the claim has been sent to you at your address as stated in the caption above. The lawsuit will be heard in the following Small Claims court:

Walworth Co. Judicial Center 1800 County Road NN, P.O. Box 1001 Room 2055 Elkhorn WI 53121

On the following date and time: October 20, 2022 at 9:30am.

You must appear at the time and place stated. If you do not appear or answer, the plaintiff may win this case and a judgment entered for what the plaintiff is asking.

/s/ Alyssa S. Wilson 7/28/22 Bar No. 1099926 262-725-0175

Published in Wednesday Journal September 28, October 5, 12, 2022

PUBLIC NOTICES

PUBLIC NOTICE OF COURT DATE FOR REQUEST FOR NAME CHANGE

STATE OF ILLINOIS, CIRCUIT COURT COOK COUNTY.

Request of Caleb Jordan Baze Case Number 20224003956

There will be a court date on my Request to change my name from: Caleb Jordan Baze to the new name of: Caleb Jordan

The court date will be held:

On October 18 at 11:00am at 1500 Maybrook Drive Maywood, Cook County in Courtroom # Zoom

Published in Wednesday Journal September 28, October 5, 12, 2022

REAL ESTATE FOR SALE

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF COOK COUNTY, ILLINOIS COUNTY DEPARTMENT - CHANCERY DIVISION HSBC BANK USA, NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, AS TRUSTEE FOR MERRILL LYNCH MORTGAGE INVESTORS, INC., MORTGAGE PASS-THROUGH CERTIFICATES, MANA SERIES 2007-OAR4

Plaintiff, -v.-

ELLEN C. SCHNACK, RANDALL C. SCHNACK Defendants 19 CH 14891 626 NORTH TAYLOR AVENUE OAK PARK, IL 60302

NOTICE OF SALE

PUBLIC NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale entered in the above cause on October 4, 2021, an agent for The Judicial Sales Corporation, will at 10:30 AM on October 11, 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 626 NORTH TAYLOR AVENUE, OAK PARK, IL 60302

Property Index No. 16-05-319-0080000

The real estate is improved with a single family residence.

The judgment amount was $417,344.71.

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

REAL ESTATE FOR SALE

RIGHT TO REMAIN IN POSSESSION FOR 30 DAYS AFTER ENTRY OF AN ORDER OF POSSESSION, IN ACCORDANCE WITH SECTION 15-1701(C) OF THE ILLINOIS MORTGAGE FORECLOSURE LAW.

You will need a photo identification issued by a government agency (driver’s license, passport, etc.) in order to gain entry into our building and the foreclosure sale room in Cook County and the same identification for sales held at other county venues where The Judicial Sales Corporation conducts foreclosure sales.

For information, contact The sales clerk, LOGS Legal Group LLP Plaintiff’s Attorneys, 2121 WAUKEGAN RD., SUITE 301, Bannockburn, IL, 60015 (847) 291-1717 For information call between the hours of 1pm - 3pm.. Please refer to file number 19-092500.

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.

LOGS Legal Group LLP

2121 WAUKEGAN RD., SUITE 301 Bannockburn IL, 60015 847-291-1717

E-Mail: ILNotices@logs.com

Attorney File No. 19-092500

Attorney Code. 42168

Case Number: 19 CH 14891

TJSC#: 42-3258

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 # 19 CH 14891 I3202427

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF COOK COUNTY, ILLINOIS COUNTY DEPARTMENT - CHANCERY DIVISION DEUTSCHE BANK NATIONAL TRUST COMPANY AS TRUSTEE FOR AMERICAN HOME MORTGAGE ASSETS TRUST 2006-5; MORTGAGE BACKED PASS THROUGH CERTIFICATES SERIES 2006-5; Plaintiff, vs. KARRI L. SPILLANE; PRAIRIE PLACE AT 6436

ROOSEVELT CONDOMINIUM ASSOCIATION; ILLINOIS DEPARTMENT OF REVENUE; UNKNOWN OWNERS AND NONRECORD CLAIMANTS; Defendants, 19 CH 14565

NOTICE OF SALE

PUBLIC NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale entered in the above entitled cause Intercounty Judicial Sales Corporation will on Monday, October 17, 2022 at the hour of 11 a.m. in their office at 120 West Madison Street, Suite 718A, Chicago, Illinois, sell at public auction to the highest bidder for cash, as set forth below, the following described mortgaged real estate: P.I.N. 16-18-428-043-1032, 16-18428-043-1051and 16-18-428-0431059.

Commonly known as 6436 Roosevelt Road, Unit 415 and P-17 and P-25, Oak Park, IL 60304.

The mortgaged real estate is improved with a condominium residence. The purchaser of the unit other than a mortgagee shall pay the assessments and the legal fees required by subdivisions (g)(1) and (g) (4) of Section 9 of the Condominium Property Act. Sale terms: 10% down

REAL ESTATE FOR SALE

by certified funds, balance, by certified funds, within 24 hours. No refunds. The property will NOT be open for inspection.

For information call Law Clerk at Plaintiff’s Attorney, The Wirbicki Law Group, 33 West Monroe Street, Chicago, Illinois 60603. (312) 360-9455. W19-0997 ADC

INTERCOUNTY JUDICIAL SALES CORPORATION intercountyjudicialsales.com I3202441

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF COOK COUNTY, ILLINOIS COUNTY DEPARTMENT - CHANCERY DIVISION REVERSE MORTGAGE FUNDING LLC Plaintiff, -v.-

CLEMENT C. RYZA, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA - SECRETARY OF HOUSING AND URBAN DEVELOPMENT, UNKNOWN HEIRS AND LEGATEES OF ELAINE E. RYZA, UNKNOWN OWNERS AND NONRECORD CLAIMANTS, CARY ROSENTHAL, AS SPECIAL REPRESENTATIVE FOR ELAINE E. RYZA (DECEASED)

Defendants 2022 CH 01290 830 N GROVE AVENUE OAK PARK, IL 60302

NOTICE OF SALE

PUBLIC NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale entered in the above cause on June 13, 2022, an agent for The Judicial Sales Corporation, will at 10:30 AM on October 24, 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 830 N GROVE AVENUE, OAK PARK, IL 60302

Property Index No. 16-06-306-0060000

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.

Where a sale of real estate is made to satisfy a lien prior to that of the United States, the United States shall have one year from the date of sale within which to redeem, except that with respect to a lien arising under the internal revenue laws the period

REAL ESTATE FOR SALE

shall be 120 days or the period allowable for redemption under State law, whichever is longer, and in any case in which, under the provisions of section 505 of the Housing Act of 1950, as amended (12 U.S.C. 1701k), and subsection (d) of section 3720 of title 38 of the United States Code, the right to redeem does not arise, there shall be no right of redemption.

The property will NOT be open for inspection and plaintiff makes no representation as to the condition of the property. Prospective bidders are admonished to check the court file to verify all information.

If this property is a condominium unit, the purchaser of the unit at the foreclosure sale, other than a mortgagee, shall pay the assessments and the legal fees required by The Condominium Property Act, 765 ILCS 605/9(g)(1) and (g)(4). If this property is a condominium unit which is part of a common interest community, the purchaser of the unit at the foreclosure sale other than a mortgagee shall pay the assessments required by The Condominium Property Act, 765 ILCS 605/18.5(g-1).

IF YOU ARE THE MORTGAGOR (HOMEOWNER), YOU HAVE THE RIGHT TO REMAIN IN POSSESSION FOR 30 DAYS AFTER ENTRY OF AN ORDER OF POSSESSION, IN ACCORDANCE WITH SECTION 15-1701(C) OF THE ILLINOIS MORTGAGE FORECLOSURE LAW. You will need a photo identification issued by a government agency (driver’s license, passport, etc.) in order to gain entry into our building and the foreclosure sale room in Cook County and the same identification for sales held at other county venues where The Judicial Sales Corporation conducts foreclosure sales.

For information, 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. 14-22-00572

Attorney ARDC No. 00468002 Attorney Code. 21762

Case Number: 2022 CH 01290 TJSC#: 42-2273

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 01290 I3202624

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF COOK COUNTY, ILLINOIS COUNTY DEPARTMENT - CHANCERY DIVISION U.S. BANK NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, AS TRUSTEE FOR GSAA HOME EQUITY TRUST 2006-14, ASSET-BACKED CERTIFICATES, SERIES 2006-14 Plaintiff, -v.-

ELIZABETH SMITH, LARRY E. SMITH Defendants

2018 CH 03138 646 LYMAN AVE

REAL ESTATE FOR SALE REAL ESTATE FOR SALE

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 July 27, 2022, an agent for The Judicial Sales Corporation, will at 10:30 AM on October 31, 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 646 LYMAN AVE, OAK PARK, IL 60304 Property Index No. 16-17-114-0150000

The real estate is improved with a single family residence.

Sale terms: 25% down of the highest bid by certified funds at the close of the sale payable to The Judicial Sales Corporation. No third party checks will be accepted. The balance, including the Judicial Sale fee for 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. 14-18-00602

Attorney ARDC No. 00468002 Attorney Code. 21762

Case Number: 2018 CH 03138 TJSC#: 42-2855

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 # 2018 CH 03138 I3203178

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

ASSOCIATED BANK, NA; Plaintiff, vs. SHEILA CONNER; STEVEN CONNER; THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA, THE OFFICE OF THE DEPARTMENT OF THE TREASURY; THE STATE OF ILLINOIS; CITIMORTGAGE, INC.; Defendants, 19 CH 13166

NOTICE OF SALE

PUBLIC NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale entered in the above entitled cause Intercounty Judicial Sales Corporation will on Tuesday, October 25, 2022 at the hour of 11 a.m. in their office at 120 West Madison Street, Suite 718A, Chicago, Illinois, sell at public auction to the highest bidder for cash, as set forth below, the following described mortgaged real estate: P.I.N. 16-08-311-001-0000.

Commonly known as 200 South Humphrey Avenue, Oak Park, IL 60304.

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

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

For information call Sales Department at Plaintiff’s Attorney, Manley Deas Kochalski, LLC, One East Wacker Drive, Chicago, Illinois 60601. (614) 220-5611. 19-038564

XOME F2

INTERCOUNTY JUDICIAL SALES CORPORATION intercountyjudicialsales.com I3202926

MY LOVE FOR OAK PARK RIVER FOREST IS AT THE HEART OF WHAT I DO.

I am the 4th generation of my family to call OPRF home and my wife and I are proud to be raising our family here. I have been a full-time Oak Park & River Forest agent for more than 23 years. I walk through more front doors in this community in one year than most will in their lifetime.

I specialize in historic homes, I’ve had the honor of helping residents sell multiple Frank Lloyd Wright’s as well as Earnest Hemingway’s boyhood home. The history behind every OPRF home is something I hold dear.

Taking care of my customers’ needs is job #1. This is all I do, every day, seven days a week. Let me help you learn what to do and what not to do in selling your home and get you on the path to a successful sale.

Realtor & Local Expert 708.369.8043 steve.scheuring@compass.com

“Clearly, Steve has been Oak Park & River Forest’s #1 Agent year after year for good reason... chiefly, that he is very good at what he does, and at all aspects of what he does (which was just what we needed from a realtor). He walked us through each phase and facet of the sale of our Oak Park home and was always happy to take the time to educate us (or to just make things happen). The depth and breadth of his experience and his real-time connection to the ebb and flow of the real estate market in our community made our experience as first time sellers so much easier. At each fork in the road, his counsel was timely and spot on. He gets our highest possible recommendation and if fate ever brings us back to the area, he is the only person we will be calling for assistance!” -JE