The proper ty is a temporar y shelter site for individuals and families experiencing homelessness
By LUZANE DRAUGHON Staff Reporter
The village of Oak Park, as the fiscal agent for Housing Forward, was awarded a $2 million grant in state funds to rehabilitate the property at 211 N. Oak Park Ave., for merly known as The Write Inn.
The property, which Housing Forward intends to rename, is a temporary shelter site for individuals and families experiencing homelessness that provides interim housing as well as medical respite. Oak Park and Housing Forward applied for the $2 million in state funds this summer.
STEVE JOHNSTON
OPRF’s Cora Brown tries to split Addison Trail defenders dur ing the Willowbrook Quad, Sept. 28, in Villa Park
Mars announces McCa ery Interests Inc. as site developer
Residents are a step closer to learning what will become of the Mars Wrigley site
By LEAH SCHROEDER Contributing Reporter
Galewood residents are one step closer to discovering what will re place the sweet smells of chocolate at the site of the old Mars factory at 2019 N. Oak Park Avenue. Nearly two years after Mars announced that they would be closing the factory and donating the land to the developer or organization of the community’s choice, the company released the news that McCaffery Interests, Inc. would be developing the 20acre manufacturing site.
McCaffery Interests, Inc., is an awardwinning development firm based out of Chicago and was chosen after a lengthy and competitive bidding process, administered by Jones Lang LaSalle, a global real estate services company headquartered in Chicago. Throughout the bidding process, several developers submitted their own proposals, which were then evaluated based on how closely they aligned with the wants and needs of Mars and the community, how experienced they were and their past performance.
The desires of the Galewood community
were re presented in a Local Initiatives Support Corporation re port and local community groups, including Austin Coming To gether, Galewood Neighbors and Northwest Center, as well as other community members, were sure to make their voices heard. The re port detailed hopes for a mixed-use site, which included community areas, green spaces, housing, businesses and a small business park.
“We voice our concerns because we want to make sure that the final outcome is at least close to what we had envisioned,” said Chairperson for Greenville Neighbors Steve Green. “We want to make sure that whatever’s in there, is something that is going to benefit. It’s going to be for the city or for the community, the neighborhood.”
At the end of the process, it was determined that McCaffery would be best fit to develop a site most in line with this vision. McCaffery’s history of completing large-scale, mixed-use developments in Chicago and across the country, as well as their commitment to honoring site le gacies, made the choice a done deal. Now that McCaffery has been designated as the developer of the site, they can move forward in the re zoning process by continuing to plan within the City of Chicago’s re zoning process and awaiting the City of Chicago’s decision whether to permit the site to be rezoned in accordance with the uses outlined
in the LISC re port.
Another important component of the process is the community desire to maintain the facade of the old Mars factory as a historical landmark. The Commission on Chicago Landmarks approved a motion in July to recommend landmark designation for the factory. Next, this recommendation will be submitted to the City Council and will await approval by the zoning, landmarks and building standards committee.
McCaffery’s development plan is set to be released in the coming months and the re zoning process will remain public. Community members retain the opportunity to submit feedback re garding the development of the site. Green said he has appreciated Mars’ commitment to the community throughout the process so far.
“From the beginning of this whole thing, the fact that Mars, the Mars family, wants to make sure that whatever happens to the site is to the benefit of the community, has been really a great thing.”
This commitment shows no signs of fading as the Galewood community moves closer to learning the fate of the manufacturing site at 2019 N. Oak Park Avenue.
“Mars remains committed to the City of Chicago and working collaboratively with all our stakeholders to redevelop the site for the benefit of the community,” a Mars spokesperson said in a statement to the Austin Weekly News.
WEDNESD AY
of Oak Park and River Forest
Editor Erika Hobbs
Digital Manager Stac y Coleman
Digital Media Coordinator Brooke Duncan
Sta Repor ter Luzane Draughon
Viewpoints Editor Ken Trainor
Real Estate Editor Lacey Sikora
Contributing Editor Donna Greene
Columnists Marc Bleso , Jack Crowe, Mary Kay O’Grady, Kwame Salter, John Stanger
Shrubtown Cartoonist Marc Stopeck
Design/Production Manager Andrew Mead
Editorial Design Manager Javier Govea
Designers Susan McKelvey, Vanessa Garza
Marketing Representatives
Lourdes Nicholls, Ben Stumpe
Business & Development Manager Mary Ellen Nelligan
Circulation Manager Jill Wagner
Special Projects Manager Susan Walker
Chairman Emeritus Robert K. Downs
Publisher Dan Haley
GOOGLE MAPS
Former Mars factor y in Galewood.
Book Discussion: 'Too Close to the Flame'
Friday, Oc t. 4, 7 p.m., Grace Episcopal Church
Join us for a discussion of Too Close to the Flame: Inside the Southern Killing Machine, led by the author, Rev. Joseph B. Ingle, a UCC minister. The book chronicles Rev. Ingle’s 45 years of ministr y to death row inmates in the South. This event is sponsored by Grace’s Peace and Justice Ministry and the Diocese of Chicago’s Peace and Justice Commission. A reception and book signing will follow the discussion. Books are available for $28, payable by cash, check, or Venmo. 924 Lake St., Oak Park
Book Bike: South Town Fall Fest
Saturday, Oct. 5, 12-4 p.m., South Town Oak Park
The Book Bike will be at the 3rd Annual South Town Fall Fest, featuring free, family-friendly activities and an artisan pumpkin sale. The event is presented in partnership with Stern Glass Works and the Collaboration for Early Childhood Stop by to check out materials, learn about library services, or sign up for a library card on the spot. 801 S. Oak Park Ave.
TA DR AW - The Hilarious Drawing Gameshow for Kids
Sunday, Oc t. 6, 1-2 p.m., Oak Park Public Library
Join bestselling author and illustrator DJ Corchin for an interac tive drawing game featuring renowned comics and children’s book artists Gene Ha, Dan Dougher ty, and Jill Thompson. Kids will be asked for various prompts and ideas during the show, so bring your creativity and silliness. This event is best for families with elementary school-age children. Learn more and register at oppl. org/calendar. 834 Lake St., Oak Park
BIG WEEK
Compiled by Brooke Duncan
Visual Ar t Classes for Kids
Thursday, Oc t. 3, 1-2 p.m., Sunday, Oc t. 14, 1-2 p.m., Friday, Oc t. 25, 1-2 p.m., Tuesday, Nov. 5, 1-2:30 p.m., Oak Park
Join us for visual art classes designed for kids in Oak Park and River Forest. We’ve partnered with Mathnasium to create art projects that teach math skills during school days o this fall. Register at frickkidsart.com. 1101 Chicago Ave., Oak Park
5K Beer Run
Sunday, Oc t. 6, 3:30 p.m., One Lake Brewing
Join us for a day of running, beer, and good vibes at One Lake Brewing. Lace up your shoes for a 5k-ish course that starts and ends at this taproom in Oak Park. Run, walk, or jog the scenic route and celebrate at the nish line with a locally made craft beverage. Fun for all, whether you’re a seasoned runner or just looking for an active day with friends. Purchase tickets at https:// tinyurl.com/awhvnmsp. 1 Lake St., Oak Park
Autumn Adventures in AAC
Monday, Oc t. 7, 6:30-8:30 p.m., Oak Park Public Library
Join us for an evening of fun and games using your augmentative and alternative communication devices. Stations will feature games and activities, sta ed by speech therapists from local clinics, along with opportunities to explore di erent apps, devices, and access methods. Drop in whenever you can and stay as long as you like. Fidgets and a break area will be available. 834 Lake St., Oak Park
Literature: Meet Mamah
Monday, Oc t. 7, 1:15 p.m., Nineteenth Century Charitable Association
Join Elizabeth Carlson, also known as Ellie, as she brings Mamah Bouton Borthwick to life. Mamah, who was brutally murdered in 1914 at Taliesin, the home she shared with Frank Lloyd Wright, re ects on her relationships and the challenges women face in balancing personal desires with societal expectations. 178 Forest Ave., Oak Park
Thursday, Oc t. 10, 6-9 p.m., FitzGerald’s Nightclub
Join us for StorySlam, where storytellers, friends, and supporters come together for an evening of entertainment. The event features a dinner bu et from Babygold BBQ, a cash bar, an online auction, and entertainment. Early bird tickets are available for $100. Premium tickets are also available for $150, with a matching gift included. Purchase tickets at https://tinyurl.com/3jj pfh. 6615 Roosevelt Road., Berwyn
Insights from Multimedia Artist Joe Fournier
Thursday, Oc t. 10, 7-8 p.m., Oak Park River Forest Museum
Join us at the OPRF Museum to hear insights and stories from award-winning multimedia artist Joe Fournier, an OPRF graduate and Oak Park resident. In the lead-up to the Presidential Election, Fournier will share examples of his work and creative process spanning 30 years as a political cartoonist with the Chicago Tribune, covering events from the Clinton administration to the current campaign between Kamala Harris and Donald Trump. Fournier’s unique visual language seeks to address the divisive social climate. His work has been exhibited at The National Gallery of Art, The Cannes Film Festival, and is included in The Library of Congress. For more information, visit oprfmuseum.org. 129 Lake St., Oak Park
Holding court, courting dreams
‘Hoop Dreams’ basketball court honors landmark lm, inspires West Side kids
By CHARLES THRUSH Block Club Chicago
A new basketball court in Garfield Park honors the 30th anniversary of the landmark documentary Hoop Dreams while hoping to inspire a new generation of young athletes
The stars of the 1994 documentary — Arthur Agee Jr. and William Gates — joined city officials Saturday to unveil the “Hoop Dreams” basketball court at Garfield Park, 3705 W. Jackson Blvd.
The court includes six new baskets and a bright blue and orange paint job, with “Hoop Dreams” logos as well. It is a fitting way for Gates, who worked for several years as a youth interventionist with Oak Park Township, and Agee Jr. to give back to the community, as access to basketball facilities played a large role in their well-known stories, they said.
“Seeing these kids play today takes me back to that very first day, when I was five years old, when I first picked up a basketball,” Gates said. “And ever since then, it’s been non-stop, even to this very day. I get to pass it onto the next generation. Basketball creates a family.”
William Gates and Arthur Agee Jr. at the unveiling of the “Hoop Dreams” courts in Garfield Park Sept. 28, 2024. Credit: Alice Tolkin/Block Club Chicago
Hoop Dreams, which was directed by longtime Oak Park resident Steve James, follows Chicago natives Agee Jr. and Gates through their respective high school basketball careers and efforts to make the pro levels. Both initially attended St. Joseph High School in west suburban Westchester under legendary coach Gene Pingatore.
The film was lined up to be a 30-minute television segment about basketball culture in Black communities, but it grew into a 5-yearlong project documenting Agee Jr. and Gates’ journeys through adversity as underprivileged students with NBA aspirations. The documentary reached a global audience and became lauded as one of the greatest documentaries ever made.
“When I was 14 [when filming began], I had no idea what was going on,” Gates said in an interview with Block Club. “I was like, you’re gonna put a camera on me? But I was just excited to be a part of it, because at that point I had to build my reputation and somebody was interested in my life.”
Today, Agee Jr. and Gates, who have their
William Gates and Arthur Agee Jr. at the unveiling of the “Hoop Dreams” cour t in Gar eld Park, Sept. 28.
own podcast together, have channeled their passions for basketball into community work, partnering with a slew of organizations to make Saturday’s unveiling possible.
The basketball court that honors the legacy of Hoop Dreams was brought to Garfield Park thanks to basketball magazine SLAM, Project Backboard, Communities Partnering 4 Peace, and Kartemquin films, the production company that made Hoop Dreams
My Block, My Hood, My City, a nonprofit that engages youth in inner-city Chicago by taking kids on explorations across the city for their “Youth Explorers” program, ran a basketball clinic at the event.
“We partner with 15 schools, and we average between 15 and 20 students per exploration,” said Stephen Gilbert, director of youth and community development for My Block My Hood My City. “This new court is going to bring the community together and bring kids back onto the court. We want to see our kids having fun.”
Around 100 members of the community turned out for the celebration, including Ald. Jason Ervin (28th) and Mayor Brandon Johnson.
Agee Jr. and Gates dedicated the court to Agee Jr.’s father, Arthur “Bo” Agee, and Gates’ older brother, Curtis Gates, who each passed away in the early 2000s and played integral roles in Agee Jr. and Gates’ stories respectively
Agee Jr.’s father struggled with addiction and spent time in prison during the filming of the documentary, leading to Agee Jr. having to transfer out of St. Joseph. He went on to play at John Marshall High School on the West Side, where he led his team to finish third in the 1991 statewide championship.
“When I left St. Joe’s,” Agee Jr. said in an interview with Block Club, “I knew it wasn’t going to be my last thing with basketball. There was a strength that developed in me to keep wanting to go forward and pursue anything. A lot of people would’ve gotten depressed and given up, but I wanted to do the reverse of that and press forward to see what’s happening at Marshall.”
Also present at the celebration Saturday afternoon was Shawn Harrington, who played alongside Agee Jr. at Marshall as a sophomore. Harrington was an assistant coach at Marshall, but in 2014, was paralyzed from the waist-down after someone shot at him and his daughter while he was in his vehicle. Today, Harrington coaches young students at Children of Peace Catholic School, 1900 W. Taylor St.
“Basketball was everything to me,” Harrington said in an interview. “It taught me discipline, respect, sportsmanship, and all of my friends out here today are lifelong friends through sports. That’s why I continue to use sports to mentor kids and give back to the community in that way.”
As we cozy up for Fall 2024, several home decor trends are making waves
Nature-inspired elements are at the forefront, with earthy tones like deep greens, burnt oranges, and rich browns bringing the outside in.
Sustainable materials, such as bamboo, reclaimed wood, and organic fabrics, are also gaining popularity, emphasizing eco-friendly living.
Textured accents are key this season, with chunky knit throws, velvet cushions, and woven rugs adding warmth and depth to interiors.
Statement lighting—think oversized pendants and vintage-inspired chandeliers— is set to illuminate homes with a touch of drama.
Minimalist design focusing on functionality and comfort continues to thrive.
Incorporating dual-purpose furniture that maximizes space without sacri cing style is a must.
Botanical prints on wallpaper, artwork, accessories, and fabrics provide a timeless yet contemporary feel, bringing a breath of fresh air indoors.
How do you feel about incorporating some of these trends into your home?
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ALICE TOLKIN/BLOCK C LU B CHIC AGO
Village receives $299K for supporting asylum seekers
The grant will also assist individuals experiencing homelessness
By LUZANE DRAUGHON Staff Reporter
The village of Oak Park was awarded $299,000 through the third round of the Supporting Municipalities for Asylum Seeker Services grant funding to aid both asylum-seekers and individuals experiencing homelessness.
had time to get work permits, find jobs and save up money to support themselves. The village’s priority has been to make sure the migrants have access to housing through the end of those leases, Matheny said.
This round of SMASS funding does require that a certain percentage of the funds are used for migrant services, Matheny said. But it’s now possible to include the unhoused community.
“We also appreciate this new opportunity to help utilize some funds to suppo rt the unhoused residents that are in the community, too, as they’re both really important populations that are in need of services,” Matheny said.
The village was previously granted $400,000 through the first round of SMASS funding and more than $2 million through the second round. But those dollars were restricted to aiding asylumseekers. This time around, the restrictions associated with the funding have been slightly expanded.
“They ’re both really important populations that are in need of services.”
VANESSA MATHENY Community ser vices administrator
The rest of the grant money, about $55,000, will be used for rental costs associated with the St. Catherine – St. Lucy rectory, the site of Housing Forward’s emergency overnight shelter for individuals experiencing homelessness.
The village and Housing Forward are also working to expand the shelter capacity from 20 to 40 beds.
In late October 2023, the village began supporting many asylum seekers that arrived during a snowstorm. For months, these individuals and families were staying in village-sponsored shelters. By early April, Community of Congregations, in partnership with the village, was able to resettle all migrants under Oak Park’s care into stable living situations
The Oak Park Resettlement Task Force, sponsored by the Community of Congregations, helped find available housing for the migrants and offered landlords a fully paid, 12-month lease. But those leases cost money.
Vanessa Matheny, the village’s community services administrator, said the village expects to use about $244,000 of the grant dollars to help fund the remainder of the oneyear leases for these migrant households.
After those leases are up, the hope has been that the migrant households will have
The application for this third round of SMASS grant funding opened in July, Matheny said, and the village had a few weeks to apply. Oak Park officials asked and were awarded the exact amount they asked for, $299,000, based on actual projected costs for the lease payments and for the emergency shelter.
These state funds will be applicable through June 30, 2025, Matheny said, the end of Illinois’ state fiscal year. She said she does not anticipate another round of SMASS funds to become available before then.
“We reco gnize that … as much as the village is prioritizing helping to support the migrants and the unhoused, it also takes additional resources when we are helping to support a lot of initiatives in this community,” Matheny said. “Being able to have access to these additional funds … helps bridge the gap.”
Federal assistance to help Cook County recover from July storms
Severe storms occurred between July 13 and 16
By LUZANE DRAUGHON Staff Reporter
Cook County residents and business owners who experienced damage from the severe weather between July 13 and 16 can now apply for federal aid to help them recover.
United States President Joe Biden signed a federal declaration Sept. 20 that authorized the Federal Emergency Management Agency’s individual assistance program to help individuals and businesses recover from the storms, according to Oak Park officials. Tor nado warnings went into effect throughout Cook County and Chicago July 15. Extreme weather brought down trees in Oak Park’s residential areas, such as on locals’ houses and on streets. Strong winds and flooding were also a risk.
The next day, some streets were closed. Village officials said the part of Oak Park most affected was between Interstate 290 and Madison Street. Sidewalks with tree limbs and debris and downed power lines had to be cleared over the span of a few days One resident even complained of a gas leak at her home as a result of stor m damage.
“Millions of residents across the state have incurred damages from the seve weather in July due to torrential rain and flash flooding,” said Illinois Gover nor JB Pritzker in a Ready Illinois news release Assistance through FEMA could be grants for temporary housing or home repairs loans to cover uninsured property loss, or other programs intended to support recovery, according to village officials.
Seven Illinois counties, including Cook County, are part of the declaration Bide signed. The other counties in Illinois ar Fulton, Henry, St. Clair, Washington, Wi and Winnebago.
By LUZANE DRAUGHON Staff Reporter
Robert Spadoni, for mer RUSH Oak Park Hospital vice president and chief operating officer, was disbarred on consent by the Su preme Court of Illinois.
Spadoni pleaded guilty to stealing $622,500 from the local hospital and was sentenced to a year and a half in federal prison. As a for mer attorney, Spadoni has now been expelled from the le gal profession. Disbarments are typically the result
unethical or ille gal practices. He was licensed to practice law in 1989, according to the September attorney re gulation case summaries for the Supreme Court of Illinois.
According to the Illinois State Bar Association, disbarment is not necessarily permanent in Illinois. That means that over time, Spadoni could be reinstated as an attorney through disciplinary hearings and appeals, though it’s unlikely in most cases
Peruvian dancers brighten the Hispanic Heritage Festival, Oak Park Village Hall, on Sept. 28.
Artists f ind their tribe and will exhibit together
The Groundwater Collective will display their work at the Oak Park Ar t League
By LEAH SCHROEDER Contributing reporter
A small home in Oak Park filled with colorful artwork, novels and flowers is home to the meetings of Jacqueline Lakely, Galen Garapolo, Kelly Donahugh and Mary Jo Parker O’Hearn, a place where the mixed media artists discuss their work and life experiences.
Nearly two decades after the artists initially started meeting, the group is now having its first show under their collective identity, the Groundwater Collective, on Oct. 12 and 13 in the Car riage House Gallery at the Oak Park Ar t League
The show is a “full circle,” moment according to Lakely, with the board of the Oak Park Art League being where the artists originally met 20 years ago. Despite having different art styles, Garapolo, Donahugh and Parker O’Hearn bonded immediately during their time on the board and began meeting as a way to re plicate the critique sessions that they missed from their time in art school. Lakely was a welcome addition to the group when she joined in on the monthly meetings in 2014.
Now, the artists meet each month to discuss what they are working on and provide feedback to each other. Over the years, the
oup has honed their ability to provide honest feedback, while maintaining a validating and supportive energy
“This is a space without ego. We’re very supportive of each other. There’s no competition,” Garapolo said. “It’s just about giving down to earth, frank critiques of each other’s work. It’s easily done and easily received.”
It takes great trust, the women said, to bring in unfinished pieces of work and to provide and receive honest feedback, but there is no question of trust among the four artists.
“I feel like I’ve found my tribe or my other family,” Parker O’Hearn said. “There is a trust and honesty that we have that you don’t find nor mally. It’s really quite beautiful.”
During their two decades of meeting,
Help Wanted: Administrative Assistant (Part Time)
PROVIDED
From le : Kelly Donahugh, Mary Jo Parker O’ hearn, Jacqueline Lakely and Galen Garapolo
River Forest debuts new ser vice request platform
O cials say they aim to speed the process for residents
By ROBERT J. LIFKA Contributing reporter
River Forest residents started using the village’s new service request platform “immediately” after it went live Sept. 6, according to village Administrator Matt Walsh, with the re port of a pothole “within hours
Dof launching.”
Walsh explained that staff members began discussing an upgrade to the village service request platform in late 2023 and began working with Davenport Group in the spring. Davenport Group of Nashville, Tennessee, designs and implements IT solutions that build technology foundations for customers na-
Sponsored Content
tionwide, according to the company website.
The village initially purchased software, called LAMA, from Davenport in 2019 to moder nize the building permit submission and review process and it was implemented in the spring of 2020, said Jessica Spencer, assistant village administrator. LAMA stands for Land Management.
A BOY WHO FOLLOWS HIS GUT
uring my son Luke’s junior year at college, his friends interviewed for summer internship consulting positions. Luke did not pursue this opportunity as he wanted to work for a tech or crypto/blockchain entrepreneur. I was skeptical. Did tech and crypto bros even have money to pay interns? It seemed to me those employers were maxing out credit cards just trying to keep the doors open. But Luke was not deterred. He had a feeling it would work out and he began networking through Twitter/X and LinkedIn. Lo and behold, all those cold emails and informational meetings resulted in Luke receiving a New York City summer internship from Deloitte’s brand new Blockchain Division. Luke loved NYC and took full advantage of getting to know the city and saving his salary. At the end of the summer, Deloitte wanted to consider Luke for a full-time position after graduation. Not surprisingly, Luke refused to pursue it. Luke said it did not feel right. Although Luke loved NYC, he did not want to work for the man. Instead, he wanted to work in a scrappy tech startup.
love with San Francisco.
Luke’s gut was telling him to stay, so he did. Luke signed a year lease for an apartment in Nob Hill and he is now looking for a job at another scrappy tech startup. Will it work out? To Luke, it already has. He is in a beautiful city, making new friends, and enjoying his life. He will figure out the rest.
Luke has learned to trust his gut (his intuition) in decision-making. This decisionmaking process seems random and driven by emotion. But is it really?
Nowadays with all the data we can obtain, listening to our gut may seem unwise. But there is a deep neurological basis for intuition. Scientists call the stomach the “second brain” for a reason. There’s a vast neural network of 100 million neurons lining your entire digestive tract. This helps explain why intuition sometimes has physical reactions.
Getting good at trusting our gut takes practice. When people talk about having great intuition or being good decision-makers, it’s because they have worked at honing their gutfeeling skills. Not surprisingly, more than 40% of CEOs say they still make decisions based on intuition, despite having access to a great deal of data. Even the U.S. Navy has invested millions of dollars into helping the enlisted refine their intuition. Intuition can supersede intellect in high-stakes situations like the battlefield.
Some studies suggest we should rely on our immediate first impression. Others advise delaying the decision for a bit and focusing on another intervening activity. The pause allows our unconscious mind to pinpoint the stored information, which may increase the accuracy of our intuitive judgment.
“After evaluating similar products on the market to improve the current service request system, staff concluded that proceeding with LAMA would enable a quicker rollout,” she added.
Walsh agreed, explaining that staff members researched several programs used by other municipalities, but found that expanding on the currently used building permit software “made the most sense for us.”
He said it took a few months of mapping out the different requests and configuring the for ms that residents would eventually use
Walsh said that nothing specific occurred that led staff members to review the previous service request system, but they discovered that service requests were often being made through Facebook or email messages to staf f and board members.
“This suggested that our old platform was not being used and that we needed an upgrade in order to serve residents more quickly,” he said.
The platform is designed to make it easier for residents to submit inquiries and get the assistance they need. The new system was constructed to streamline the process to have requests addressed in a more timely manner than the previous platform.
So, Luke went back to his Twitter/X and LinkedIn networking. After several emails, phone calls, and meetings, Luke found a connection to a scrappy tech startup guy. That guy offered Luke a one-month room and board unpaid internship in San Francisco. Luke was ecstatic! This opportunity felt right to him, and he left for California a few days later. Unfortunately, the internship ended with no offer of a job. But by then, Luke had fallen in
Gut feelings or intuitions occur when your brain makes a substantial match or mismatch between past and current experiences. Our brains recognize patterns based on our past experiences. We then store these patterns and accompanying information as long-term memories. We retrieve the information when we see these patterns again in our everyday experience.
The more experience, the more reliable the gut feeling. Studies show that pairing gut feelings with analytical thinking helps us make better, faster, and more accurate decisions. It also gives us more confidence in our choices. This is especially true when we are overthinking or there is no correct option.
In Luke’s case, he loved San Francisco upon arrival but his decision to permanently move there took a few weeks to marinate. Plus, Luke has lived in Oak Park, Champaign, Madrid, NYC, northern Minnesota, and traveled extensively in Europe and Asia. All those experiences have likely contributed to Luke’s confidence in his gut decision to make the big move.
Estate Planning also may provide a gut reaction. You probably intuitively know that you should create an estate plan, but it seems complicated. It is easier than you think! Listen to your gut and check “create an estate plan” off your to-do list today!
“The intention is to more quickly respond to resident requests,” Walsh said. “The added benefit is a central location for staff to view and respond to requests, without as much manual entry as our old system.”
Spencer explained that the new platform forwards resident requests directly to the appropriate department.
The new platform can be found in the middle of the main page of the village website.
“We have it prominently displayed on our website so that any visitor on desktop or mobile will see it first thing,” Walsh explained
The platform lists 25 options for residents, including requesting a replacement garbage bin, scheduling a branch pickup and reporting road/sewer issues
Spencer, who Walsh credited as being the lead on the project, explained staff members identified the more common options from the previous system list in choosing the 25.
Walsh added “to make sure we were including the most common questions,” they collected feedback from other staff members and departments
Spencer said several service requests have
THERESA CLANCY Estate Planning Attorney
Madison Stre et set to close next week
Madison Street is scheduled to be closed Oct. 14 as the Canadian National Railroad will be replacing the track structure east of Forest Avenue. The work will include the installation of a new rubber crossing surface. Madison Street will be closed, with traffic detoured via Lake Street, 1st Avenue, and
ARTISTS
Groundwater Collective
from page 9
each of the four women has gone through transformations, both in their artwork and in their personal lives. From experimenting with different styles of art, to experiencing tragedies, their monthly meetings have been a constant, according to Lakely
“You go through an awful lot in life in 20 years, and to have a group that meets consistently like this, where we all know what’s going on, is something special and very grounding,” Lakely said.
The consistency of their meetings has bled into their artwork, Donahugh said, with each of the women taking inspiration from each other while maintaining their own distinct styles of art.
“We’ re all just changing all the time, but yet we all weave together. We’re influencing each other constantly, because we’ve been meeting over time,” Donahugh said. “You see almost each other in our work just because we’ve been growing together and
already been submitted through the new link on the village website.
“We are optimistic that residents will find the for ms simple and efficient to use,” she said. “We encourage residents to provide feedback as we continue to refine the processes.”
“Residents can certainly still call or email,” Walsh said. “We just hope that residents are comfortable with the number of options they have to contact us and will reach out to us directly so that we can respond.”
He said officials will continue to promote the new platform in village newsletters and will highlight it in a postcard mailing
Harlem Avenue. Detour signs will be posted leading up to the closures. In response to the detours, some area police departments announced they will be running targeted traffic missions in the neighborhood to combat speeding and traffic concerns
— WEDNESDAY JOURNAL STAFF
talking together.”
The women had their first show as a group in 2017 and were pleasantly surprised with how well each of their artistic styles inte grated with each other. For the past two years, the group has been planning their first show under its new name: The Groundwater Collective, a name they say is very re presentative of their identity as artists.
“The word groundwater is a natural reflection of what it means to be an artist and take in all sorts of nutrients from all around us and each other,” Donahugh said. They say they are most looking forward to seeing all of their new artwork on display around them and seeing how the different styles interact with each other.
However, the women have no plans of slowing down once the show concludes, saying they plan to return to the studio promptly after and continue their monthly meetings.
“I was thinking as we were reminiscing how long we’ve been together, that it was special and unique that we were four women that have been together sharing our work for that long,” Donahugh said. “We’re just going to keep working to gether forever and ever.”
this fall.
“The village is always looking at ways to strengthen property values through better service delivery to our community and our service request portal does just that,” village President Cathy Adduci said. “Now, residents can electronically submit service requests for a wide range of needs or issues, which are routed directly to the village staf f member who can address it versus trying to figure out who to send it to, reducing the time it takes to resolve them.”
More info rm ation and a link to the new platfo rm c an be f ound on the village ’s we bsit e.
SPADONI
from page 7
Disbarment is also not automatic in Illinois. Disbarment on consent means that Spadoni voluntarily accepted the “punishment,” according to an Illinois Attorney Registration and Disciplinary Commission spokesperson. When an attorney voluntarily accepts it, they can seek reinstatement after three years of losing their license. Seeking reinstatement
“Generally, in the criminal context, the more severe a crime, particularly those related to the practice of law, the less chance the lawyer has of etting his or her license back,” said Sari Montgomer Chicago-based ARDC defense attor
U.S. District dge Matthew F. Kennelly also ordered Spadoni to pay the amount he embezzled, $622,500, in restitution to the hospital. Spadoni orchestrated a billing scheme to defraud the hospital. He used the money to pay for restaurant meals, hotel stays and to transfer $225,805
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River Forest ghts back against the emerald ash borer
By ROBERT J. LIFKA Contributing reporter
River Forest staf f members were able to treat 287 of the village’s 306 parkway ash trees against the invasive emerald ash borer over the summer, using a $7,650 grant from the Morton Arboretum Chicago Region Trees Initiative to cover the majority of the cost.
Seth Jansen, management analyst, said village staf f members did not treat those trees in poor condition as part of the grant ag reement, but were able to treat every ash tree deemed to be in excellent, good or fair condition by village arborists. Most were treated in June and July with the last of them being completed in August, he added. The emerald ash borer is a beetle that is responsible for killing millions of these trees nationwide each year.
River Forest is one of 14 communities that received Urban and Community Forestry Grant awards in 2024 to improve forest health resulting from emerald ash borer damage or for emerald ash borer prevention.
Jansen explained that River Forest had
initially became aware of the grant in the early 2023, when the Morton Arboretum put out a survey to gauge the interest of communities in a potential urban forestry grant through the United States Department of Agriculture Forest Service. Village officials later submitted a letter of support to the arboretum for its grant application to the USDA in May 2023, which led to a grant through the Urban and Community Forestry grant program within the Inflation Reduction Act.
In November 2023, River Forest applied to be a subgrant recipient with the intention of utilizing the grant funds to help fund the treatment of parkway ash trees for EAB. The grant, which was awarded in March, covers 50 percent of the cost of the EAB treatments performed this year, he said.
“We were able to use our staf f man hours performing the ash tree injections as part of our match requirement, so the grant is able to cover a good portion of the cost of the insecticide and injectors,” Jansen added. “As another stipulation of the grant, we updated the Trees and Shrubs ordinance in the village code to meet the best practices
recommendations from the arboretum.
Village President Cathy Adduci was appreciative of the arboretum grant.
“We are very grateful for this grant from the Morton Arboretum so that our ash trees can thrive,” she said. “The village is consistently seeking any grant opportunities to lessen the burden on our taxpayers, while providing the highest level of services to the community.”
Grant funding for projects is available for local units of government in Illinois to improve urban and community forestry programs through tree inventories, management plans, tree planting and woody invasive species removal and re placement. Eligible applicants include municipalities, townships, county governments, tribal governments, forest preserves, conservation districts and park districts. Funding is provided by the Urban and Community Forestry program of the USDA Forest Service through the Illinois Department of Natural Resources.
CRTI is the arboretum’s urban and community forestry progr am, working to improve the health, diversity and equitable
Our beautiful 6-story building provides quality, a ordable, independent housing for seniors. e Oaks o ers studio and one-bedroom apartments, with kitchens and private bathrooms. Amenities include an award winning interior landscaped atrium, central meeting room, library, laundry facilities, computer learning center, internet access, electronic key entry system, and parking.
On-site management includes 24/7 emergency maintenance service and a senior services coordinator who is available during business hours to assist residents in accessing service
distribution of trees in the Chicago region and throughout Illinois. CRTI partners with and facilitates collaboration among more than 500 organizations in the public, private and nonprofit sectors to inspire tree stewards and build municipal capacity and support for trees, with a focus on environmental equity and disadvantaged communities
According to the Morton website, the arboretum is an internationally reco gnized tree-focused botanical garden and research center in Lisle. Its 1,700 acres of beautiful tree-filled landscapes are a place of enjoyment, a vibrant hub for nature education and a world-renowned center for scientific research that studies trees and how to sustain them. Its vision is a greener, healthier, more beautiful world where people and trees thrive tog ether. As a nonprofit organization, the arboretum’s mission is to collect, study, display, and conserve trees and other plants from around the world to inspire learning, foster enjoyment, benefit communities, encourage action, and enhance the environment.
agencies and programs designed speci cally for seniors. e Oaks is owned and operated by the Oak Park Residence Corporation and is funded by the US Department of Housing and Ur-ban Development through the 202/ Section 8 Program. Monthly rent is based on the resident’s income, with individuals paying approximately 30% of their monthly income toward rent.
For more information, please visit us at www.oakparkrc.com or contact us at 708-386-5862.
Oak Park board debates priorities in capital improvement plan
Memorializing Perc y Julian, village hall renovations are among projects on the list
By LUZANE DRAUGHON Staff Reporter
Oak Park’s village board is working to approve a recommended five-year capital improvement plan while grappling with the reality that they may have to take on more debt as some federal funding dries up.
Each year, a five-year plan is approved that will help dictate the priority and associated budget for capital improvement projects in the village. The projects in the capital improvement plan are categorized from A to F in order of priority.
The recommended capital improvements for fiscal years 2025 to 2029 is a 240-page document available online. The projects are categorized as building improvements, fleet re placement, equipment re placement or main projects. From there, each category has a budget or fund associated with it. Some, like water and parking funds, are budgeted within their own specific fund, according to records.
On Thursday, the village board debated priorities for the main capital fund, water/sewer advancements, building improvements and vehicle fleet re placements. Trustees have also discussed improvements for parking infrastructure and village equipment and plans for Community Development Block Grant-funded projects on Sept. 10.
As trustees work to balance their priorities with the high price tags, Village Manager Kevin Jackson pointed out that part of the reason the board might issue more debt in upcoming years is due to the lack of American Rescue Plan Act dollars.
Oak Park received $38.9 million in ARPA funding to address COVID-19’s effect on the community. But any remaining funding must be committed by the end of 2024 and spent by the end of 2026. The board has to decide which goals to prioritize, but it’s not uncommon for municipalities to issue debt for the sake of a capital improvement plan, Jackson said.
“I haven’t seen, in my career, where there’s ever been a situation where you have dedicated revenue coming in that matches the amount of need in terms of capital improvements,” he said. “It’s always a balancing act between the administration, based upon what we know about the board’s priorities and then having these conversations.”
But balancing a budget with the board’s goals might mean some sacrifices.
“We have to ensure that we’re maintaining the things that we own, and we build, or we should stop building them,” Trustee Cory Wesley said, refer ring to both Oak Park Village Hall and the Oak Park and River Forest High School pool.
MAIN C APITAL FUND
The main capital fund projects, including the Oak Park Avenue Streetscape project, alley re placements, bicycle lane improvements and traffic-calming measures, are expected to cost nearly $36 million in 2025.
Oak Park Avenue Streetscape
The village board approved a conceptual design for the Oak Park Avenue Streetscape project in 2023 and construction is planned for 2025. The recommended budget for the project in 2025 is listed at more than $19.5 million, up from about $14.5 million due to additional water, sewer and alley work, according to Village Engineer Bill McKenna.
Street resurfacing
McKenna also said the village expects to spend about $3.3 million for various street resurfacing work annually from 2025 to 2029. But to maintain Oak Park’s roads, the village should really be spending $5.4 million to $5.8 million per year, he said.
“Over a five-year period, you will see a slight drop in roadway condition based on this number,” McKenna said. But he also pointed out that with ongoing water, sewer and lead line re placement work comes additional resurfacing work that could help bridge the gap.
Perc y Julian
The village also plans to memorialize Percy Julian’s legacy through streetscape elements like branded banners, crosswalks and gateway signage. Village staf f put a placeholder of more than $7.5 million for that work in the CIP from 2025 to 2027.
“I would like to move this up to at least a B to show the significant support that the board has shown for this,” Wesley said. The project was listed as a D priority level. “I don’t consider it optional. I don’t think the board considered it optional when we voted for it.”
Neighborhood greenway and bike boulevards
Further neighborhood greenway and bike boulevard improvements are also recommended at $2.5 million for 2025 and for 2026. The village is also looking to collect public input about the possibility of a Ridgeland Avenue bike lane and to conduct a related feasibility study.
“We’ re looking at treatments to make it safer for cyclists,” McKenna said. “Some streets in this network we’re actually looking to upgrade to bike lanes and potentially remove parking … There’s some streets where we’ve un-
der-utilized parking that we would, instead of bike boulevards, tur n them into dedicated lanes.
“All of our streets have under-utilized parking,” Wesley responded. “Or most of them.”
BUILDING IMPROVEMENTS
Work toward building improvements, including for Oak Park Village Hall, the Oak Park Police Department station, the Oak Park Fire Department stations, and the Oak Park River Forest Museum, are expected to cost $5,265,500 in 2025.
The recommended work could rack up a bill of more than $50 million in 2026, $36 million in 2027, nearly $18 million in 2028 and more than $12.6 million in 2029. But Rob Sproule, the village’s public works director, was careful to explain that the dollar amounts associated with Village Hall, the biggest driver of those expenses, are merely placeholders based on conceptual designs.
Oak Park Village Hall
Oak Park trustees have decided to remodel the existing Village Hall structure and to build a new police station after more than a year of debate. But the work won’t come cheap, last estimated at between $132 million to $138.3 million.
Now, Oak Park is asking for another architectural firm to render a schematic design for the project, money for which is set aside in 2025. The village board still has a lot of related decisions to make, including setting a budget.
Downtown Oak Park multi-modal station
Trustee Brian Straw and Wesley ag reed that work to enhance the appearance of the downtown Oak Park multimodal station at Marion Street should be a higher priority See IMPROVEMENT PLAN on pa ge 16
STATEMENT OF OWNERSHIP, MANAGEMENT AND CIRCULATION
(Required by 39 U.S.C. 3685)
1.Publication Title: Wednesday Journal
2. Publication no.: USPS 0010-138
3. Date of filing: October 2, 2024
4. Frequency of issue: Weekly
5. No of issues published annually: 51
6. Annual subscription price: $52.00
7. Complete mailing address of known office of publication: 141 S. Oak Park Ave., Oak Park, IL 60302, Cook Co.
8. Complete mailing address of headquarters or general business office of publisher: (same)
9. Names and complete mailing addresses of publisher, editor and manager editor:
Publisher: Dan Haley, 141 S. Oak Park Ave., Oak Park, IL 60302
Editor: Erika Hobbs, 141 S. Oak Park Ave., Oak Park, IL 60302
Managing Editor: Dan Haley, 141 S. Oak Park Ave., Oak Park, IL 60302
10. The owner is: Growing Community Media 141 S Oak Park, Oak Park IL 60302
11. Known bondholders, mortagees and other security holders owning or holding one percent or more of the total amount of bonds, mortgages or other securities are: None.
12. N/A
13. Publication name: Wednesday Journal
14. Issue date for circulation data below: September 25, 2024
15. Average no. copies each issue during preceding
12 months:
A. Total no. copies printed (net press run): 4138
B1. Mailed outside-county paid subscriptions stated on Form 3541: 59
B2. Mailed in-county paid subscriptions stated on form 3541: 3009
B3. Paid distribution outside the mails including sales through dealers and carriers, street vendors, counter sales and other paid distribution outside USPS: 268
B4. Paid distribution by other classes of mail through the USPS: 0
C. Total Paid distribution: 3336
D1. Free or nominal rate outside-county copies included on PS form 3541: 0
D2. Free on nominal rate in-county copies included on PS Form 3541: 424
D3. Free or nominal rate copies mailed at other classes through the USPS: 0
D4. Free or nominal rate distribution outside the mail: 185
E. Total free or nominal rate distribution: 609
F. Total distribution: 3944
G. Copies not distributed: 194
H: Total: 4138
I. Percent paid: 84.56%
15. No. copies of single issue published nearest to filing date:
A. Total no. copies printed (net press run): 3930
B1. Mailed outside-county paid subscriptions stated on Form 3541: 60
B2. Mailed in-county paid subscriptions stated on form 3541: 3106
B3. Paid distribution outside the mails including sales through dealers and carriers, street vendors, counter sales and other paid distribution outside USPS: 269
B4. Paid distribution by other classes of mail through the USPS: 0
C. Total Paid distribution: 3435
D1. Free or nominal rate outside-county copies included on PS form 3541: 0
D2. Free on nominal rate in-county copies included on PS Form 3541: 153
D3. Free or nominal rate copies mailed at other classes through the USPS: 0
D4. Free or nominal rate distribution outside the mail: 185
E. Total free or nominal rate distribution: 338
F. Total distribution: 3773
G. Copies not distributed: 157
H: Total: 3930
I. Percent paid: 90.04%
16. Publication of statement of ownership will be printed in the Oct. 2, 2024 issue of this publication.
17. Signature and Title of Editor, Publisher, Business Manager, or Owner: Jill Wagner Circulation Manager, September 30, 2024
LaShawn Stewart shares the power of Westside Stories
Her story is a vibrant tale of community engagemen open mic, attentive listening, and connection
By HECTOR CERVANTES Contributing Reporter
LaShawn Stewart, a Chicago West Side native, is an author, educator, mentor and consultant whose roots run deep in the vibrant culture of Chicago’s West Side, who was raised by her grandparents and uses her diverse talents to empower others guiding them from their journey to self-discovery and fulfillment.
She recently shared her powerful stories and participated in an open mic monthly Westside stories-telling gathering hosted by the Front Porch Arts Center.
“Her poetry, rich in themes of d and unity, reflects her commitment to fostering understanding and connection as a passionate advocate for education and personal growth,” Front Porch Arts Center founder Keli Stewart said.
he arranged This experience taught s.
After the story LaShawn read a few pages of some of the poetry she created from her ry elationships, and ompresent had c. the
ourth Municipal District in Maywood, icipated in the open-mic and spoke ommunity inole in his owal career, nspired r met any lawyers law school or anything hen my roommate was thinking about going into law school. So, I decided I would apply to go to law school,” Shelby said.
Reflecting on a conversation with Stewart’s grandmother, who suggested that everything needed to know about Black culture could be learned from Stewart’s neighborhood, it became clear there was a lack of documentation about the West Side’s contributions.
“Storytelling is something we have done for thousands of years. Thinking about that first fire being lit and how people would gather at the end of the day to talk about what happened, share their successes, and give testimonies, Westside Stories is very much about mapping those experiences. With its testimony, humor, and drama, anything can be a story at Westside Stories,” Stewart said.
Stewart noted that great storytelling experiences come from the people present and shares that her favorite stories are those about grandparents.
LaShawn begins her story by recounting an impulsive trip she took to Los Angeles to cover the BET Awards with just enough money for a round-trip ticket. If
LaShawn’s grandparents had known what happened, they would have been very upset with her. Planning to spend the night at a Starbuck s, LaShawn found herself overwhelmed by people seeking help that she could not provide
When LaShawn arrived at the Starbucks after the award show, she realized that it was not a good idea, as she was not the only one spending the night there. She faced unexpected challenges at this busy Starbucks, where she was overwhelmed by people asking for things she couldn’t af ford. Unlike the for mer Starbucks in Oak Park on Harlem and Lake, where LaShawn felt secure leaving her belongings unattended, this location was chaotic. Despite trying to seek help through prayer, she struggled with the situation and felt vulnerable.
“I tried this at Starbucks, but struggled because I was frequently asked to buy things I couldn’t af ford. Then, One Direction arrived with a huge crowd, and security had to close the plac e. Amid the chaos, I met an old friend who is now a famous
Initially, he was discouraged by the high cost of law school despite a small scholarship offer. Howeve r, his involvement with the Better Boys Foundation, where he maintained friendly relationships with the staf f, led to an oppor tunity as one day, a staf f member infor med him of a full-tuition scholarship at Chicago-Kent Colle ge of Law for African Americans, which he applied for and rece ived
“I was just so happy. That one phone call got me a scholarship. This shows the Lord works in mysterious ways,” Shelby said.
T he Front Porch Arts Center, launched in 2019, aims to bring arts and cultural events to the West Side, a re gion often overlooked despite its rich narratives. T he center was created to celebrate local stories and provide a space for community eng agement.
LaShawn went live on YouTube during the event. View the full video here. To stay up to date on the latest events of Front Porch Arts Center, visit their website at https://frontporchartscenter.org/ welcome-1
HEC TO R CERVANTES
LaShaw n Stewart
4 men rob Oak Parker, later confronted
An Oak Park resident was surrounded by four men who demanded the victim’s shirt Sept. 21 on the 300 block of Lake Street. The victim handed over his shirt, a white Hellstar Brainwashed shirt, and the men fled in an unknown direction. The estimated loss is $400.
But then an Oak Park resident located the group involved in the robbery a few hours later and confronted the group. The men began to grab at their waistbands, so the victim fled in a vehicle and drove westbound on Lake Street. She re ported she saw a man in a white sedan, who possibly pointed a firear m at her
Burglary
■ Four men were seen on camera shattering the front window of KB Smoke Shop with a sledgehammer Sept. 21 at 7101 W. North Ave. The men stole the ATM machine, cash re gister and cigarillos. The men then fled in a red SUV that was last seen heading eastbound on North Avenue. The estimate loss is $2,000.
■ Someone, through an unlocked front window, broke into an Oak Park residence between Sept. 19 and 23 on the 600 block of North Humphrey Avenue. T he person stole a Taurus 38 handgun. The estimated loss is $500.
Robbery
Two men approached two Oak Park residents Sept. 20 on the 300 block of South Elmwood Avenue. The men forcefully stole one of the victim’s purses containing credit and debit cards, car keys, a wallet, an iPhone 15 and other cards. The men fled in a white Toyota Prius that was last seen westbound on Washington Boulevard. The estimated loss is $1,000.
Motor vehicle theft
Someone, with a key fob, got into and stole a Chicago resident’s blue 2014 Mazda 3 Sept. 24 on the 900 block of South Maple Avenue. The estimated loss is $8,258.
Catalytic converter theft
Someone stole the catalytic converter from an Oak Park resident’s 2016 Hyundai Tucson between Sept. 20 and 21 on the 300 block of Home Avenue. The estimated loss is $2,800.
Arrests
■ A 29-year-old Chicago woman was arrested for battery against another Chicago resident Sept. 20 on the 800 block of Lake Street.
■ A 20-year-old man and a 26-year-old man, both from Chicago, were arrested Sept. 20 in Chicago after being identified as those who committed an ar med robbery on the 100 block of South Harvey Avenue. They were also arrested as the offenders in an armed robbery that occurred on the 1000 block of North Austin Boulevard.
■ A 32-year-old Oak Park man was arrested Sept. 21 in Forest Park for criminal damage to property that occurred Aug. 9 on the 800 block of South Austin Boulevard. T he man was issued a notice to appear citation.
■ A 42-year- old Oak Pa rk man was arrested for failing to re gister as a sex off ender Se p. 21 on the 800 block of Ca rp enter Avenue
■ A 45-year-old Chicago man was the passenger in a vehicle stopped for traf fic Sept. 22 in Chicago. He was found to be in possession of a firearm and charged with aggravated unlawful use of a weapon.
These items were obtained from Oak Park Police Department re ports dated Sept. 20 –27 and re present a portion of the incidents to which police responded. Anyone named in these re ports has only been charged with a crime and cases have not yet been adjudicated. We re port the race of a suspect only when a serious crime has been committed, the suspect is still at large, and police have provided us with a detailed physical description of the suspect as they seek the public’s help in making an arrest.
Compiled by Luzane Draughon
The Forest Park Police Department, seeks a Part-Time Civilian Information Management Call Taker. Eligible candidates will be required to pass an aptitude test and an extensive background check. Qualifications include high school diploma (or equivalent), good verbal and written skills, working knowledge of the computer and Windows, ability to type accurately, a good working knowledge of the English language, the ability to treat customers and coworkers in a polite manner and the ability to work under pressure and meet deadlines. Data entry skills and experience answering telephones/operating a switchboard are preferred.
EVENING AND OVERNIGHT HOURS ARE MANDATORY.
Open until filled. $18.70/hour. Applications are available at Village Hall, 517 Desplaines Ave. and should be returned
Attn: Vanessa Belmonte, Village Clerk, Village of Forest Park, 517 Des Plaines Avenue, Forest Park, IL 60130. Email: vbelmonte@forestpark.net.
WRITE INN
Rehab
grant received from page 1
Interim housing is a temporary housing environment that allows people experiencing homelessness a safe place to stay while looking for permanent housing, according to Housing Forward. Medical respite provides care and a safe place to recuperate for patients who need to recover from illness or injury of f the streets, but who are not sick enough to need a hospital.
The $2 million grant is from Community Development Block Grant – Coronavirus funds. The Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity allocated a minimum of $15 million in those funds to shelter construction in “urban entitlement areas,” which Oak Park is.
In February, village officials said the total budget to rehabilitate The Write Inn was estimated at $7.7 million. Officials have since said it could be closer to $9.4 million, but Housing Forward is still working to finalize a project budget and Erik Johnson, Housing Forward’s major gifts officer, said they haven’t asked for an updated estimate recently.
In addition to the $2 million grant, Oak Park’s village board designated $1 million for the renovations. Half came from unspent American Rescue Plan Act funding, and the other half is from CDBG returned funds. Trustees Lucia Robinson and Cory Wesley voted against the motion to allocate ARPA dollars at the time, saying they wanted the funding to come solely from CDBG or other funds.
Housing Forward has also received $3 million from Illinois for this project, and
Johnson said they are working on other funding sources. The nonprofit purchased the property at 211 N. Oak Park Ave. in November 2023 with support from Cook County for $6.5 million. It has served as a temporary fixed shelter site since September 2020.
“The COVID-19 crisis hit us all fast and furious back in March of 2020,” Johnson said. “Housing Forward had the great good for tune to be able to very, very quickly, over the course of a weekend, move individuals who were using our emergency shelter into motel rooms in western Cook County.”
In June, village officials said the property is intended to offer 45 rooms for adults, couples and small families in addition to 19 rooms for medical respite care. Johnson said Housing Forward is working with a general contractor now to put together the plan, but no contracts have been signed yet. The units also need rehabilitation to meet accessibility standards, according to village of ficials.
The remodeled property is also expected to have case management services that can provide continuity of care and wraparound services. Housing Forward also plans to renovate common spaces on the property, improve laundry areas and office space, and add space for group meals.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, Johnson said Housing Forward saw firsthand how individuals experiencing a housing crisis who had a stable place to sleep and did not have live each day on “survival mode” were able to achieve more of their goals and work toward permanent housing stability.
“The shelter [was] an excellent opportunity for people who had no place to sleep at night,” he said. “But when you are experiencing homelessness, even navig ating a day of simple things like ‘Where am I going
IMPROVEMENT PLAN
Looking 5 years ahead
from page 13
than C due to its “sad” condition. But Trustee Lucia Robinson said she’s more concerned about the safety of public transit users at the station rather than the aesthetic. Work to improve the station is anticipated at $150,000 in 2025.
WATER/SEWER ADVANCEMENT S
Water and sewer improvements are expected to cost more than $19 million in 2025, according to the recommended CIP.
to get my next meal? Where am I going to use the restroom? How am I going to take care of my hygiene? … All of those things become something that take a great de gree of planning and forethought.”
With that stability, more individuals were willing and able to participate in case management and wraparound services , he said. And having a safe place for medical respite goes hand in hand with that, too.
On average, Johnson said about 76% of individuals go on to live in more permanent housing from Housing Forward’s interim housing at 211 N. Oak Park Ave. In 2023, it was 89%, he said. But over 28 years of operating Housing Forward’s emergency shelter, he said the average was about 23% to 25%.
Sewer backup protection program
The village is expected to continue its grant program for sewer backup protection for homeowners. This program offers eligible property owners up to a $3,500 grant, half the usual cost of installation for the improvements. The proposed funding for 2025 to 2029 is $300,000 each year. The village averages about 50 grants per year, McKenna said, but about a third of the available funds are unused on average each year.
“I hate that there’s funds leftover, and it’s possibly not getting to the people who need them,” Robinson said. “I want to have that money go to the people who need it, helping people preserve the value of their homes. That’s their biggest asset, for so many families.”
Village President Vicki Scaman suggested using leftover funds to remove mold or address other health considerations that can result after flooding, which Robinson supported.
The start date for rehabilitation of the property is not yet definitive, but Johnson said Housing Forwards hopes to start in 2025.
The State of Illinois called a meeting in early October in Springfield with grant recipients, where Johnson said he expected Housing Forward will learn more about the particulars of accessing the funds. Only certain entities such as local and county governments could apply for these funds, he said, but most, if not all, of the recipients were serving as fiscal agents on behalf of nonprofits.
“[The village was] a true partner in creating this application and working to get everything put together,” Johnson said. “So, we celebrate their participation in helping support our success.”
VEHICLE FLEET REPLACEMENT S
The village board has already approved the purchase of 10 police squad cars for the OPPD, Sporule reminded trustees Thursday. The cost is not yet reflected in the CIP, but he said this purchase will double the number of hybrid vehicles in the police’s fleet. The new cars are not needed due to increased staf f at the OPPD, Sproule said, but rather as re placements of aging vehicles.
The village was also planning to order a new fire ladder truck in 2025, with expected delivery in 2029. That would cost about $2.5 million, Sproule said, about $500,000 more than anticipated, causing village staf f to reevaluate if they need to delay the purchase.
The village board is expected to adopt the finalized capital improvement projects plan at its meeting Nov. 7.
e Write Inn, 211 N. Oak Park Ave.
A colonial charm, this River Forest home stands the test of time
WBy LACEY SIKORA Contributing Reporter
hen 1400 Forest Avenue in River Forest was built in 1939, the village was dotted with Victorian and Prairie-style homes that showcased popular trends from earlier in the town’s history. On the northern side of town, which was developed later, Tudor and Lannon Stone homes were becoming popular.
The unknown architect who designed 1400 Forest for his own residence built his home in the Colonial Williamsburg style, a version of the Colonial Revival style that was sweeping across the country.
Characterized by gabled, hipped or gambrel roofs, broken pediments, symmetrical facades, double-hung windows and shutters, and fanlights and sidelights, the style was popular in suburban areas from the 1930s to the 1950s.
1400 Forest Avenue, which has been home to only three families, retains many of its original design features.
Veronica Tabet grew up in the home, one of six children of Patricia and Caesar Tabet. After the passing of her parents, she and her five siblings are selling the home
While the home evokes a bygone era of design, Tabet remarks that its character remains appealing.
“The builder was the original owner, so he did everything top-flight,” she said, pointing out that details from the brick driveway to decorative features throughout the home are in excellent shape.
The brick home’s entry is topped by a broken pediment with decorative designs in the woodwork. The original, extra-wide front door is flanked by two circular windows. A third circular window is centered above the front entrance in the molding framing the attic space of the home.
See COLONIAL on page 19
GAGLIARDO
1400 Forest Avenue in River Forest
COLONIAL Cra smanship
from page 17
Dentil molding on the exterior is echoed in the entry hall, for mal dining room and living room. Tabet said the dentil work is one of the many signs of true craftsmanship in the house.
“It’s a beautiful feature. On the interior, it’s all plaster. You don’t really see this anymore,” she said.
On one side of the entry hall is the formal dining room, which boasts original decorative murals in the molding on the walls. Tabet said that underneath the rug, there is a buzzer that the original owners could use to summon a maid when they were enter taining.
Tabet’s parents bought the house in 1964 or 1965 after the arrival of their fifth child made their old house on Bonnie Brae a bit too small.
Her family didn’t have a maid for serving dinner, but with six children, they did have a live-in nanny, who enjoyed the use of a downstairs bedroom and bathroom of f of the kitchen.
It’s unusual to find a kitchen with original cabinets in local homes, but the kitchen at 1400 Forest includes details such as the original scalloped kitchen cabinetry and a built-in banquette for seating.
Compass realtor Andy Gagliard o, who is listing the house for $1.39 million for the Tabet siblings, said that he typically tells
clients to live in a new home for a year before planning a remodel.
While the kitchen is pristine and updated with newer appliances, he said that the kitchen area along with what was once the nanny suite are where new owners will be able to put their own stamp on the house.
On the other side of the for mal entry is the home’s library. Tabet said this is the room where her family ke pt all of their books in the floor-to-ceiling bookshelves. It was also the room with the children’s phone line, which meant it was always in use with six children.
Gagliardo said that when potential buyers see this room, which has access to a powder room and to the home’s garage, their first thought is to convert it to a mudroom.
Directly across from the entry hall lies the for mal living room with a fireplace and a large bay window overlooking the backyard and pool.
Tabet said that the pool was the only major change her parents made to the home.
Adjacent to the living room is a family room with a built-in bar. Blueprints the Tabet family retained suggest this room was converted from a porch in 1951 by the second owners.
The basement offers another glimpse into the past. The main staircase and family room on this lower level boast original murals of bucolic European scener y.
In a basement office, the second owners of the home, the Kropp family, added more murals. These include a depiction of the family-owned manufacturing plant, complete with a sign marked with the letter K. In the corner, the artist signed his name
e basement family room features original shutters on the bar and a wood-beamed
R.C. Stoddard, from Oak Park, Illinois, and dated the work May 1956.
The basement family room includes a wood-beamed ceiling, a fireplace and another full bar. Both the bar shutters and the door to the room are decorated with cutouts featuring children and food items.
Tab et said the room was a favo rit e hangout space when she was grow ing up in Rive r Fo rest.
“We had a lot of fun down here,” she said.
The second floor of the home includes a primary suite that looks over the backyard, with an original en suite bathroom
and several closets.
There are three other bedrooms on the second floor, including two large bedrooms on either end of the home that feature builtin storage Tabet and her sister Monica shared a room with twin beds topped with a scalloped canopy. She recalled nights spent flashing lights at the neighboring home where four teenaged boys lived. After 60 years of Tabets living in the home, the time has come to pass it on to another family Veronica Tabet said she hopes that another family will fill it with memories much as her family did.
Vote splitting can defeat the most representative candidates
Majority winners are guaranteed
Positive campaigning is rewarded
Voters have more choice and therefore more voice
Votes can be transferred to candidates who share similar views
Cesar Chavez Frederick Douglass
Cesar Chavez Frederick Douglass
Benito Juárez
Benito Juárez
DEADLINE FOR SUBMISSIONS IS FRIDAY 5 P.M.
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Ken Trainor at 613-3310
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CONSCIOUS AGING
Ageism Awareness with Ashton Applewhite
Next Wednesday, Oct. 9, Ashton Applewhite will be in Oak Park to help us celebrate Ageism Awareness Day. She will speak at the 19th Century Charitable Association, 178 Forest Ave. at 6:30 p.m. This program is sponsored by the Oak Park Aging In Communities Commission, which I chair.
BLESOFF
Ageism refers to stereotypes (how think), prejudice (how we feel), and discrimination (how we act) ward others or ourselves based on e. It negatively impacts our health and well-being, our financial security, and the economy. It exists in many rms, influencing everything from personal interactions to public policy, and it impacts us at every age.
shton Applewhite is one of the rld’s foremost activists, writers, and thinkers regarding ageism. She avels the globe speaking about and encouraging anti-ageism. Some of what she will talk about next Wednesday, right here in Oak Park, will be what ageism is, how we inter nalize ageist beliefs, how ageism affects our prospects and potential, how to counter ageism in ourselves and in our culture at large, and the intersection of ageism with ableism, racism and sexism.
The program will be kicked off by music from our own community musicians, George Bailey, Carl Spight and Dorie Blesoff, and will include a Q&A session between Ashton and the audience.
The first time I met Ashton Applewhite was in 2017. I was in “retirement transition” and she was firing on all cylinders. Ashton had just published her groundbreaking book, This Chair Rocks: A Manifesto Against Ageism, in 2016. This book is a major step forward in the world-wide movement to expose and dismantle ageism.
I met her at a conference in Chicago, at a time when I had just started reading books by Dr. Bill Thomas, Angeles Arrien, Elizabeth White and others like them. In the hallway, between sessions, we had an unhurried conversation. She was gracious, and everything she said made sense to me. She talked about both theory and practice — how everybody is always aging, how almost everybody is both subject to and
VIEWPOINTS
Election issues: A ordable housing
Let’s talk about something that is both a national issue in the presidential campaign and a local issue here in Oak Park: the lack of affordable housing. A recent poll from the Bipartisan Policy Center showed that nearly 75 percent of respondents believe the lack of affordable homes is a significant problem in the U.S. In Oak Park, we have the full panoply of housing affordability issues, whether it is homeless people living outside the Metra station, rents that now average more than $1,800 for a two-bedroom apartment, and single-family homes that sell for an average of $450,000, according to Zillow.
This same trend is happening in Austin, Galewood, River Forest, Forest Park and Berwyn.
This means tha ing affordability is no longer an issue just fo low-income families; it has trickled up to man middle-income families Who vote.
And so, both presi dential candidates ha responded
Vice President Kamala Harris has promised to build three million ne homes and provide do payment assistance to first-time home bu
JACK CROWE
prophesies that home values will tumble if a low-income person moves nearby
Others encourage any housing project, the taller the better, to help staunch everincreasing real estate taxes that are driving middle-income families out of the village, tur ning Oak Park into a town where you live until the day after your kids graduate from OPRF High School and then move out.
In the same way that incremental change is unlikely to prevent climate change, housing affordability in our neighborhood will not improve with incrementalism. We need more low-income affordable housing, such as the new 6-story construction on Austin at Van Buren near Harrison and the recently approved affordable housing project on Madison next to Al’s also need more non-subsidized larger elopments such as the newly completed building across from the leton Hotel, which eater vibrancy wntown retail usinesses.
For mer President Donald Trump, meanwhile, has vowed to reduce regulatory hurdles to building new homes and make federally owned land available for large scale housing developments, something we won’t see in Chicagoland
Recently completed a ordable housing development at 7 Van Buren St. on Austin Boulevard.
Housing experts say we can either provide subsidies to increase the supply of affordable housing or we can impact the demand side by providing gover nment subsidies, such as the gover nment guaranteed low interest mortgages for veterans after WWII.
And in Oak Park? We have withdrawn into binary opposing views: NIMBY and YIMBY
And news flash, Oak n’t improve affordability alone We need a more friendly development environment regionally, including in our surrounding neighborhoods. Example? Someone needs to complete the real estate project in River Forest at Lake and Lathrop. We also need more housing density on the Galewood side of North Avenue and the Oak Park side
Withdrawing into our NIMBY comfort zone may make us feel good. But one day we will wake up and find we are San Francisco and can’t afford to live here.
Sources
See MARC BLESOFF on pa ge 26
Any proposal to build affordable housing, luxury units, even modest coach houses here, can expect to be met with a howl of opposition. Too dense for our historic town. Not near my house. And apocalyptic
This is the moment, Oak Park The first leaves are beginning to fall. And perhaps you have heard that if a leaf falls in your yard, it may not, under any circumstances be raked into the street. You must take that leaf, and each one of its compatriots, and put it into a brown paper bag.
It has been so decreed by Oak Park’s village board in an action so politically clunky that Wednesday Jour nal had to cut down more trees to provide the paper for all the reader letters castigating village gover nment for this action.
Collecting leaves each fall is a major project for any village. There are a lot of leaves. They don’t fall on a precise schedule or confine themselves to convenient spots. In Oak Park, and many other towns, homeowners traditionally raked leaves into the street — along with the rest of the summer garden detritus, which isn’t exactly kosher but is oddly satisfying.
Once they’re in the street there is the challenge of all the parked cars, rainy days and early snows that make for a sodden mess, all of which must be cleared by a combination of the village’s contracted waste hauler and the public works team, which unclogs the drains and sweeps the streets
This is expensive for the village and while the cost is built into the garbage fee every homeowner pays, it all adds up, it is not climatefriendly, and generally doesn’t make much sense.
So Oak Park took decisive action which is often a good thing. But not in this case
Meanwhile, over in Forest Park we presume its village government has the same midterm goal of ending the leaves-in-the-street tradition. But there village gover nment is undertaking a soft-soap, cajoling-not-mandating effort to get Forest Parkers to think differently about those pesky leaves.
A town hall meeting was held last week and featured multiple public officials and a member of the village’s Environmental Control Commission.
“You might think about, you know, just consider, maybe if you want to, putting all your leaves in those big old paper bags and dragging them out to the alley. You know, it might be fun,” was the paraphrased message
The secondary message was “Leaves are your friends. They grew on the trees by your house. Doesn’t it feel right that they should also end their lives there, decomposing, re-energizing the dir t, dust to dust and all that?!”
That, of course, is the right answer. Rake your leaves into your flower beds and make your own mulch. Or smash them to smithereens with your lawnmower and let them lay. Or, if you’re really modern, gather them up and compost them.
The wrong answer, on all fronts is to rake the leaves into the street, have expensive and gas-guzzling trucks push them into giant piles and then haul them to an unknown landfill, maybe in Iowa. So credit to Forest Park for trying a less dictatorial route.
Americans have a fixed view of our lawns and gardens. When autumn ends, there should not be a brown leaf in sight. It’s a very limited take on nature, even on urban nature. But moving us past it might be better accomplished by Forest Park’s methods than Oak Park’s
e two sides, with one month le
The election is a mere month away. No one knows which way it will go, least of all the pundits and pollsters. The pundits worship at the altar of polls, even though the polling results are topsy-turvy. One day Trump is ahead in the swing states. The next day it’s Harris. The one re port I haven’ t seen from mainstream media is why the polls are so unreliable and what’s wrong with their methodolo gy.
KEN
I’ ll be voting in my 14th presidential election (going back to 1972) and I have yet to be contacted by a polling fir m in 52 years. How about you? Maybe they always contact the same people. Jury duty never has any trouble finding me, but pollsters? Crickets
TRAINOR
Mainstream media obsesses over polls, mostly because they’re lazy. What the “polls” seem to measure are misperceptions — especially about the economy, which has been strong and getting stronger through the last four years though, alle gedly, “a lot of people think it’s weak,” supported by a firehose of lies from Trump (and social media).
Rather than re po rt on the actual economy, media prefers to re po rt on the misperce ptions because “perception is reality.” Not true. Misperce ption only carries an aura of credibility when media reinforces it by re po rt in g the misperce ption as if it we re reality, as if it we re tr ue. The actual truth, meanwhile, gets under-rep orted. Pe rc ep tion is not reality; it’s self-fulfilling prophecy.
In spite of all that, the pro-democracy, protruth side has a lot going for it. Here are the reasons for hope and confidence with one month remaining:
■ T he pro-democracy, pro-rights, pro-people side is united behind one candidate. That wasn’t the case until Joe Biden’s selfless, noble act, withdrawing from the race on July 21, made it possible.
■ This side is energized, enthusiastic, and mobilized by its candidates, who emphasize the positive and telling the truth. The other side is mobilized, too, but not energized and enthusiastic. They ’re ang ry and agg rieved, emphasizing the ne gative and spreading what is demonstrably false.
■ Based on the results of all but one presidential election since 1988, there are more voters on the pro-democracy side, which seems resolved and determined to vote in record number s.
■ T he pro-democracy side held a joyful, substantive, inspiring convention while the anti-democracy side wallowed in cult worship, painting an ugly picture of a doomed country and world, based on wildly inaccurate imaginings of conspiracy theorists and well-practiced liars.
■ Kamala Har ris, sur prised many (including me), kicking ass in the Se pt. 10 debate, showing impressive command of the issues and humiliating the other candidate, who is clearly either mentally ill or in co gnitive decline … or both.
■ T he pro-democracy candidate is charismatic, ar ticulate, capable, and preaches optimism and hope. The other candidate is a crank y, morally-impaired has-been who spews pessimism and has proven he’s fit only for prison. The good news is, voters always choose the more charismatic candidate.
■ Many more Re publicans will be voting for the Democrat this time than the other way around
■ T he truth about the economy is that inflation has been dramatically reduced to just over 2 percent, with 16 million jobs added in the last four years, compared to a net loss of jobs (2.7 million) during the other candidate’s previous term. The numbers are readily available at FactCheck.org.
■ Things have fallen into place and have gone as well as the pro-democracy side could have hoped for.
What the other side has going for it :
■ Misinfor mation and conspiracy theories
■ Voter suppression ef forts
■ Mainstream media “normalizing” their campaign’s steady stream of malicious falsehood s
■ Dee ply flawed polling
■ Miso gyny and racism
■ Lies that exploit people’s fears and biases
■ Practice at overtur ning elections when they lose (although it didn’t work last time)
I wouldn’ t bet against democracy. There is no room for complacency or over-confidence, but I’m betting more Americans are committed to preserving democracy than overtur ning it, and that most Americans want to be gover ned by someone competent who is trying to make life better for everyone, not just the privileg ed few. With one month left, the indicators are pointing toward democracy. That’s our cue.
Now — as it should be — it’s up to us
SHRUB TO WN by Marc Stopeck
“Super-Enhanced Tra c-Calming”
e new American Dream
This letter fell through the cracks back in early September. With one month till the election, however, it seems like a good time to finally print it. Sorry, Tom, about the delay. Your column about the Democratic National Convention is beautifully written, it is timely, and it speaks of the new American Dream that had ’em dancin’ in the aisles [Getting my hopes up, Ken Trainor, Viewpoints, Aug. 28]. We unite behind a shared vision of a better and more achievable future.
As to the recent DNC, it was indeed different. The euphoria flowed easily, and the speeches reinforced my levels of pride and comfort in the extraordinary, dedicated talent supporting the candidates. The two brilliant Obama speeches were encouraging, providing much fuel for dancing.
Poet Amanda Gorman was exciting and insightful. She said
it falls to us to stand together, or we cannot stand at all, and how patriotism is not just love of freedom, but love that frees us all. Tomorrow is written by the audacity of our hope. She states that perhaps the American Dream is no dream at all, but instead is a dare to dream together. In many ways, she echoed Lincoln’s most famous speech, his Gettysburg Address.
You wrap up your comments with a listing of the good that would come if American voters deliver the White House and Congress to the Democrats. It is indeed an impressive and encouraging list.
Thank you, Ken, for your cogent and optimistic piece
My Dream is active and thrilling
Clari cation
Last week, there were no obituaries to run, which is always for tuitous, so we were able to run for mer Illinois Gover nor Pat Quinn’s One View about an upcoming referendum [Vote Yes for property tax relief amendment] on the page nor mally devoted to obituaries. Unfortunately we forgot to remove the “Obituaries” banner at the top
WEDNESD AY
of Oak Park and River Forest
Viewpoints Guidelines
e goal of the Viewpoints section is to foster and facilitate a community conversation and respectful dialogue. Responsible community voices are vital to community journalism and we welcome them. Space is at a premium and readers’ attention is also limited, so we ask that Viewpoints submissions be brief. Our limit for letters to the editor is 350 words. For One View essays, the limit is 500 words. Shorter is better. If and when we have su cient space, we print longer submissions, but when space is limited — as it o en is — we may ask you to submit a shorter version or hold the piece until space allows us to print it.
We reser ve the right to edit submissions. We do not have time to allow the writer to review changes before publication. We also do not have time to do more than super cial fact-checking, and because of our national epidemic of misinformation and conspiracy theories, when writers include statistical evidence to support their opinions, we require them to include the source of that information, such as credible websites, print publications, titles of articles and dates published, etc. Be as speci c as possible so that we and our readers have some way of assessing the credibility of your claims. Links may also be included for the online version. We follow the Society of Professional Journalists’ code of ethics: seek the truth and report it and minimize harm. As a result, we will do our best not to publish pieces that espouse doubtful or debunked theories, demonstrate harmful bias, or cross the line into incivility. While we will do our best not to engage in censorship, we also do not intend to be used as a platform for misinformation. Your sources for fact-checking are a critical step in keeping the discourse honest, decent and respectful.
All submissions must include your rst and last name and the municipality in which you live, plus a phone number (for veri cation only). We do not publish anonymous letters. One View essays should include a sentence at the end about who you are.
If we receive your submission by 5 p.m. on Sunday, you can expect your opinion to be included in that week’s paper (and online), space permitting.
Tom Lynch
Oak Park
of the page, which made it look as if we were r unning Pat Quinn’s obituary. We will spare you the famous Mark Twain quote about his demise, but we’re happy to report that the for mer gover nor is alive and (we hope) well and (we hope) hasn’t lost his sense of humor. We apologize for our great exaggeration.
Pieces can be submitted through our online form at oakpark.com or directly to Viewpoints editor Ken Trainor, ktrainor@wjinc.com. For the latter, we prefer attached Word les or plain tex t included in the email.
LETTER TO THE EDITOR
■ 350-word limit
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‘ONE VIEW’ ESSAY
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Where shopping bene ts our community
Do you know who lives in the large house on the northwest corner of Grove Avenue and South Boulevard in Oak Park? I’ll give you a clue, it is not just one family, but many families. It is an organization called The Economy Shop, a “unique charity resale store with three floors of shopping.”
JOY AARONSON
One View
This nonprofit thrift shop was started in 1919 by a group of community-minded women with the goal of receiving donated home furnishings, clothing, and other items and selling them for the benefit of local charities. I’m amazed that even before these women got the right to vote, they founded this charity and that now, over 100 years later, The Economy Shop is still benefitting our community
Proceeds from sales go to seven local charities: Animal Care League, Beyond Hunger, The Day Nursery, Housing Forward, Infant Welfare Society, Senior Citizens Center, and Thrive Counseling Center
The small rooms in the house have been converted to specialty areas. You can find antiques, including vintage glass, china sets, silver pieces, sculptures, vintage linens and lace, men’s and women’s casual and better clothing, shoes, tools, craft supplies and much more. As a writer who likes to imagine scenes, I enjoy looking at various pieces of clothing and jewelry and imagining the stories behind them.
On my visits, I sometimes buy scarves and earrings. I have also found bargains for my grandchildren, including babies and children’s toys, games and books. Some
The dictionary defines hope as “desire accompanied by expectation of or belief in fulfillment.” This common definition evokes the idea of gratification, happiness, our dreams coming true. It describes wanting something and thinking that what we want will magically appear. It is high on waiting for others to act and low on taking action oneself. This is the hope of wistful imagination, of secret longings, of sitting and watching
This common definition is the hope of believing that a presidential candidate can take care of everything — “I alone can fix it,” as one of the contenders famously said. With this mindset, we cast our votes once every four years and then sit back, believing our job is done
In fact, we must do the constant work of building our communities and society. We must organize ourselves, connect with our neighbors and colleagues, decide on our col-
of my friends have purchased designer women’s clothing at a fraction of the full price. Customers come from near and far looking for bargains. I’ve seen people of all ages, including families with babies, teenagers, and younger and older adults. The Economy Shop also keeps our community “green” by helping us declutter our homes. Volunteers accept donations, and sort, from Tuesdays through Saturdays, 8 a.m. to noon, except on shopping days
I’ve donated knickknacks, clothing, and children’s items that my grandchildren have outgrown. At one sale, I was pleased to see for sale an old-fashioned doll that I had donated. It feels good to donate items that were just sitting around so others can use them. Certain items, including appliances, furniture, and textbooks, are not accepted
The Economy Shop, located at 103 S. Grove Ave, is closed in the summer, as the building does not have air conditioning. Shopping days this month are Thursday, Oct. 3, and Saturdays, Oct. 12, 19, and 26 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.
For more information on donations, a calendar of shopping days, history, and volunteering, readers can go to their website at https://theconomyshop.org
Joy Aaronson is an Oak Park resident who writes stories for Wednesday Journal about her favorite things in the village. Previously, she contributed to Chicago Parent and wrote the Kids’ World column for the former Logan Square Free Press.
Mills Park Tower’s elevator problems
I am a resident of Mills Park Tower, a 199-unit HUD senior housing building in Oak Park We are that 19-story concrete looming over Mills Park
We have only two elevators and one is completely shut down for repairs, leaving one elevator that is supposed to be operating. That “working” elevator stops working on a regular basis now, sometimes for up to 12 hours. The management office is not open in the evenings or on weekends. We are often confused as to who we should be calling when the elevator goes down.
Many of the residents here are not ambulatory without their walkers, wheelchairs and scooters. They cannot walk up any stairs, let alone 19 floors where I live The ambulances and EMTs are unable to get up or down to assist the residents who are in crisis.
Management states it will take 16 weeks to repair the one elevator and the second one will also take 16 weeks. Thirty-two weeks to repair two elevators? Yesterday when I went into the office to ask the manager when the one “working” elevator would be working, I was told just to be patient.
We residents have complained loudly about this to David Pope and the management team. We have complained loudly and often, and yet we still are waiting on our floors or in the lobby, hoping to get to our apartments. Some residents had to sleep in the community room one night when the elevator was down overnight. I believe David Pope and his team are responsible for our wellbeing, even though we are “independent living.”
We would like to be safe and able to access our apartments.
Jacqueline Elder Oak Park
Passive vs. active hope
lective dreams, and hold our political leaders at all levels accountable for making those collective dreams a reality
This common definition is the hope of praying for God to solve our problems. With this mindset, we ask a cosmic being to resolve our challenges and wait for them to do so. In fact, we must do the work of joining with one another to build and repair our communities. We must do the selfreflection that allows us to discover that we don’t really need all the things we think we need, that we can get by on less, but that less still has to include one another
This common definition is the hope of putting our faith in outside institutions — corporations, the gover nment, the police, the military — to resolve our difficulties With this mindset, we ask groups of others to do what we are unwilling to do our-
selves. In fact, what happens to us is in our own collective hands. This doesn’t mean that we are to be blamed for our misfortunes
When a family is bankrupted by medical debt, it doesn’t mean that they are at fault and should be on their own. It means that we all must work to create the kind of society that doesn’t leave them on their own, that provides health care through existing institutions, that doesn’t throw people into the winds of the free market to land where they may.
For me, hope is the belief that we can make something good in tomorrow. It doesn’t mean expecting everything will be solved or cured or healed, nor that we can solve or cure or heal everything. It means holding onto our own ability to create and appreciate the small beauties of the world. It means trusting that we can discover those
small beauties even among the cracks and fissures.
This hope is solitary, in that we must make it our own work to search for and create those small beauties. But this hope is also collective, in that it is amplified when we join together. As we combine the resonance of our individual hopes, they vibrate in concert, creating a melody that is more than the sum of its parts. Our individual hope can give us sustenance when times are difficult. Our collective hope can shake down the walls of oppression. Our individual hope can help us get through the day. Our collective hope can transform societies. Our individual hope can inspire others. Our collective hope can change the world.
We cannot allow hope to be a passive desire. We must make it an act of creation. Jim Schwartz is an Oak Park resident, an educator, and a blogger at Entwining.org.
Calling out our litterers
As any corner home owner knows, summer is prime time for picking up litter on your parkway. With fall upon us, I wanted to take a moment to express #gratitude for a record-breaking season.
Yes, litterers, you may have thought your work had gone unnoticed, even unappreciated, but guess what? As the person leg ally responsible for the upkeep of the parkway, I spent every weekend in pure awe of your work.
It took time and dedication as you obviously traveled far and wide (where is the closest White Castle anyway?) and it took consistency (shout out to Wendy’s fry containers which were definitely the MVP (Most Visible Pieceofgarbage).
Thank you all for a great season! Look forward to seeing what you can launch onto my lawn next summer!
Rachel Stark Oak Park
Recycling plastics all a scam?
The state of California is suing ExxonMobil, accusing the company of falsely propagating the belief that plastics were safe to use because they could be recycled. But in the U.S., according to the Washington Post, only 5 to 6% of the plastic produced actually gets recycled. Most plastics, even ones marked by recyclable symbols, are not actually recycled because they vary too much in color and chemical composition.
This be gs the question: Why in Oak Park are we residents going to great effort and some expense to wash and rinse plastic containers, discard them in separate blue bins (which cost money and take up space), and then paying LRS, the g arbage pickup contractor, for a second truck to drive down our streets and alleys each week picking up recyclables?
Maybe it’s too expensive of a task for Wednesday Journal to investigate. But it would be worthwhile for some investigative body to follow the plastic
trash in one Oak Park resident’s blue bin, and see where it actually eventually ends up. How much of it is actually recycled? How much of it is incinerated? How much of it is thrown into a landfill, just like the g arbage we throw in the green bins?
It seems a fair demand to make of the recycling company that the village hires to pick up and carry away all our plastic: Prove how much of it actually gets re cycled.
In short, are the blue bins worth their cost and trouble? Or when it comes to plastics, is recycling just a scam? We feel like we’re doing our bit to save the environment, but actually we’re not. In fact, we’re using more plastic than we might if we knew they weren’ t actually being recycled.
And conned as we have been by the plastics industry, we’re spending a lot of extra money and ef fort on a fool’s er rand to recycle it.
Providing care for patients with disabilities
This year, we celebrate the 34-year anniversary of the American Disabilities Act being signed into law, but I am embar rassed to admit that I have no idea how to provide care to patients with disabilities.
As a physician-in-training, I am challenged to lear n every aspect of medicine and demonstrate mastery of what is considered best medical practic e. We lear n to take a patient’s medical history, carry out a physical exam and develop appropriate assessments and plans We lear n to put the patients at ease and build trust through empathy, open communication and compassion.
After I be g an working with patients with disabilities, however, I realized that I did not know how to treat them, let alone make them feel at ease. Medical educators must do a better job at building a curriculum that adequately prepares physicians to meet the complex needs of patients with disabilities.
As a Schweitzer Fellow, I worked with blind adults and adults with visual impair ments living in a community home. In this setting, more than 90% of residents live with multiple diseases, including chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and cardiovascular disease,
which are managed by medications. On average, residents take more than nine medications, administered by the onsite nursing team.
SIMON PARK
Where are the doctors who prescribed them, you might ask? Well, they are nowhere to be found. Some residents make the ef fort to see their primary care physician (PCP) but they often re port that they are not treated with respect. Despite efforts to coordinate transportation plans with appropriate accommodations, residents often find themselves being asked to reschedule due to unforeseen conflicts when they ar rive at their primary care physician’s clinic. When they are seen by their PCPs, it is not uncommon for them to navig ate office visits or undergo physical exams without proper accommodations. In some cases, I was hor rified to hear from one patient that their PCP screamed at them for not following instructions.
One
View
people live with a fo rm of disability. With an aging population, exper ts anticipate that more adults will lose their vision and/or hearing. When we also consider social and health disparities, risks for developing multiple medical conditions increase significantly for adults with disabilities.
More impor tantly, adults with any disabilities are nearly twice as likely to die from all-cause mortality than those without disabilities, according to the CDC. With this changing patient landscape and compromised outlook, we need more progr ams to educate and prepare physicians to provide better care.
lear n about the causes of intellectual/ developmental disabilities, gain patient perspective, and demonstrate clinical skills through an objective, structured clinical examination. Courses like this prepare us to better serve patients with disabilities and supplement our core clinical skills. I eagerly look forward to taking this course in my last year of training.
T he Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) re por ts that approximately 61 million adults in the U.S. live with some disability — and the numbers are growing. According to World Health Org anization, an estimated 1.3 billion
To address this gap, the American Medical Association encourages medical schools to establish elective rotations specializing in care for the disabled. The Loyola University Chicago Stritch School of Medicine established an elective designed to teach physicians-in-training to specialize in care for the disability community.
T he cur riculum focuses on inter professional communication and of fers an opportunity to eng age directly with patients who have disabilities. Students
T he disability community is often overlooked. To address this, more physicians must become advocates for patients with disabilities. While some medical schools already have a curriculum designed for serving patients with disabilities, a large majority of U.S. medical schools do not. Medical schools should expand their ef for ts to educate physicians and physicians-in-training.
T he Chicago Area Schweitzer Fellows progr am is a year-long, service-lear ning initiative suppor ted by the Health & Medicine Policy Research Group. Fellows design and implement innovative projects that address the health needs of underserved Chicago communities.
Simon S. Park, PhD, is a 2023-2024 Albert Schweitzer Fellow at the Loyola Uni versity Chica go Stritch School of Medicine.
Mark Wallace Oak Park
Backyard observations
In the fall of my sophomore year in high school, my biology teacher gave the class a tw assignment to observe and write a detailed report about the wildlife we obser respective backyards.
Our teacher divided the class into three mammals, birds, and insects
I was happy to be placed in the mammals because I would have found it difficult to identify most birds and insects without the help of a guide book, but I could identify all of the local fauna.
During the two-week study, carried out both in daytime and at night, I was able to obser bits, squirrels, a raccoon, and an opossum.
The rabbits I saw were Easter n Cottontails They were gray-brown in color with a short, rounded white tail. I noticed their eyes were large, and their rear feet were long and appeared to be quite strong. I estimated their length to be 18 inches. I watched them feed on tree bark and saw that they stayed under brushy cover much of the time, but if they heard a loud noise, they would either remain motionless or run.
My grandmother fed squirrels, so it wasn’t difficult for me to observe them as they chomped away on nuts, but I wanted to see their other actions as well. I watched as two squirrels performed a high wire act on our telephone line then chased each other up and
Alley oops?
As did Alan Krause [Not a priority? Viewpoints, Sept. 25], I contacted the village’s Public Works Department after reading the Wednesday Jour nal article about the proposed capital improvement program budget being discussed by the village board [Village board dives into 5-year capital improvement plan, News, Sept. 18]. Prior to making contact, I looked at the budget for the CPI funds to be devoted to alley replacements over the next five years: 2024-2029.
I also looked at the two rating systems utilized by public works to deter mine the conditions that rank the priority for alley replacements. I learned that the north-south alley between the 700 blocks of South Elmwood (my home) and Gunderson are among those ranked with the worst conditions. With new alleys between the 500 and 600 blocks of Elmwood and Gunderson, and the replacement of the alleys between Elmwood and Ridgeland in all four blocks between Madison and Harrison, plus the poor rating scores for the alleys between the 700/800 blocks of Elmwood and Gunderson I
wn an oak tree and scurried off into a neighbor’s yard. I estimated the squirrels’ length to be 16-20 inches long, including the bushy tail. As I observed the squirrels more I realized they were rather solitary mammals, ound for nuts and berries. When they ound these edibles, they hid them in the crotch of the oak tree so they would have a stash of food in the winter
One night I observed a raccoon as it tried to tip over rbage cans. When I tur ned my flashlight on, the raccoon hissed at me, causing me to retreat a few feet. it did not attack me. I saw that this stocky mammal was about 3 feet long with sharp claws, a masked y coat that gave it a gray-black color he opossum I observed in early daylight was the ugliest animal I had ever seen. It was a gray, stocky beast with short legs, a pointed snout, a very long tail, a white face, and dark, pointed ears. I had heard that these mammals play dead when they are startled, so I threw a stick to its right side, and the opossum rolled its 3½-foot body over on its side and remained motionless.
I went inside the porch to watch the opossum through a window, and when it realized the “danger” had passed, it rolled back on its feet and left the yard
My life as a mammalogist ended when I completed the assignment. I then resumed my lifelong attitude toward animals: I don’t bother them, and, thus far, they have not bothered me
thought that I and my neighbors would be the next beneficiaries of the village’s alley replacement schedule in 2025.
I was wrong.
I received a very polite response from Public Works Engineer Chris Kim that included the following, “Your alley has a PCI of 30, which is on the lower end of the 200+ alleys that need to be reconstructed throughout the village. After my inspection last year, I did adjust the 5-year plan to include your alley for the 2029 construction year. I’ll continue to inspect our 5-year plan annually to make adjustments accordingly.”
Another way of reading the schedule according to the timeline of the budget is that any adjustments for the “200+ alleys” over the next five years could further delay the replacement of the alley between the 700 blocks of South Elmwood and Gunderson past 2029. But I and my neighbors will try to be optimistic; hope springs eternal that it could go the other way.
Chris Donovan Oak Park
MARC BLESOFF
Ageism Awareness event
from page 21
a perpetrator of ageism, and how being called “young lady” is insulting and disrespectful.
In 2022, the United Nations and World Health Organization named Ashton one of the Healthy Aging 50, a group of leaders “transforming the world to be a better place in which to grow older.” That same year she was named one of the world’s most inspiring women by FemaleOneZero and she won the Maggie Kuhn Award. Having Ashton Applewhite speak in our own neighborhood about ageism is a special opportunity that I hope you can take advantage of. Obviously, if you have no interest in ageism and how it impacts your world, then just don’t show up. But if you have even a spark of interest, do yourself a favor and come to the Ageism Awareness Day program next Wednesday at the 19th Century Charitable Association. It starts at 6:30 p.m. It’s Free. You can reserve a seat at www oak-park us/AAD
Uniforms?
I wrote a Viewpoint for Wednesday Jour nal after the Columbine High School massacre in Colorado. “Nothing to lose with uniforms,” was the headline. There have been 400 school shootings since then.
OPRF today has 42 security staff, up from about 5. There are many parts to a possible solution. In every case they will save money
Almost everyone in education believes that by the third grade you know which children will have difficulty going forward. In fourth grade there can be extra effort with those children, but by fifth they just promote them to junior high. You can’t hold a child back. Why?
Junior high is only three years and they are shipped to high school. Because of privacy laws, for many years districts 90 and 97 did not communicate with the high school about the students they were receiving. We could solve this problem by making the superintendent of the high school the superintendent of K through 12 as happens in 47 of our 50 states. The whole system would be working together on solving this problem during their earlier school years.
In 1995 John Callaway did a program about Stevenson High School in Lincolnshire that was rated three times as the top high school in Illinois. He interviewed students about their problems. They spoke about cliques, jocks, nerds, etc. Many thought they were not accepted at Stevenson and didn’t feel comfortable joining many of the programs that the school offered because they didn’t want to be noticed or be subject to more abuse. One thing came out clearly in what a lot of students had to say. How they dressed had a lot to do about how they were treated!
England and Ireland require students to wear uniforms. They haven’t had any school shootings. The cellphone problem is more easily fixed if there is a united front at the school and board level. Unifor ms could solve most of the fighting problems. Instead of spending countless hours on student problems, you could spend valuable time on how to put OPRF back on top. Uniforms could be as simple as khaki pants, skirts or shorts and a collared shirt or polo shirt for war m days
When my girls were at OPRF the problem many school mor nings was trying to decide what to wear and still catching the bus. Isn’t it time for common sense in education?
Jack Flynn River Forest
Cameron Beatley, 58
A passion for the arts
ameron David Beatley, 58, died unexpectedly on June 11, 2024 at his home Chicago. Born in ashington D.C., he was raised on Capitol Hill. After aduating from Gonzaga College High School and traveling around Europe, he set off to Chicago where he received a Bachelor of Fine Arts from the School of the Art Institute of Chicago. After graduation, he returned to Washington for several years. In 2000, he returned to the Chicago area, where he lived in Oak Park and started a family. He also lived in Humboldt Park and earned an MBA from DePaul University.
Known for his wicked sense of humor, he experienced joy in taking his children on epic trips, his loyalty to the Washington Redskins (now Commanders), his love of dogs and cats (especially strays), and his appreciation of great music. Many of his Oak Park/ Chicago-area friends shared his enthusiasm for music and joined him at local venues and cultural events over the years. He volunteered with the Working Bikes Network and housing organizations such as Housing Forward. Although he worked with computer systems and in the digital economy, his true passion was the arts and development of his Widelawns Distilling Company.
He enjoyed Chicago, but always remained a true Washingtonian at heart.
Cameron was predeceased by his parents, Mary Anne (Cullen) and Paul F. Beatley, and two older brothers, Chris and Kevin
He is survived by his two children, James (Jamie) Cullen Beatley and Maille Grace Beatley of Oak Park; his brothers, Kirk (Lisa) Beatley; Paul (Sylvie) Beatley, and Craig (Martha) Beatley; his sisters, Noreen Beatley and Kate (Joe Stargiotti) Beatley; his “adopted brother” Bob (Carol) Widman; and a multitude of nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends. His marriage to Sarah Carey ended in divorce.
A celebration of Cameron’s life will be held on Nov. 3 in Chicago and in March 2025 in Washington D.C.
For more information, please contact his sister, Noreen, at 202-270-8462.
Joseph May, 91 Oak Park resident
Joseph A. May, 91, of Oak Park, died on Sept. 28, 2024. He was the husband of Joanne May (nee Duffy); the father of Joseph, Mary Helen, John (Kathy), and Michael (Cathy); the son of the late Joseph and Mary May; the brother of the late Michael James (the late Marilyn) and Bernadette
(the late Edmund) Boyle; grandpa to John, Kelley, Hannah, Jack, Kristen, Katelyn, and Brian; and the uncle of many nieces and ne phews.
In lieu of flowers, donations are appreciated to Misericordia.
Visitation will be held on Thursday, Oct. 3 at Peterson-Bassi Chapels, 6938 W. North Ave., Chicago, from 4 till 8 p.m. Friends and family are asked to meet on Oct. 4 at St. Luke Church, 7600 Lake St., River Forest., for a funeral Mass starting at 11 a.m.
Celebrating alifeofcare andcommunity
2024 1:00 – 3:00 pm • Reception To Follow
A passionate educator, an intuitive organizer, a loving mother and a generous friend, she built community wherever she wentalways with a love of joy and justice.
Hank Souders, 19
OPRF grad, SIU student, automotive wizard
Henry “Hank” Souders, 19, of Oak Park died on Sept. 21, 2024, victim of a traffic accident on the Southern Illinois University campus in Carbondale. He was heading to work as a certified motorcycle license school instructor. Born on June 3, 2005, he grew up and spent nearly his whole life on South Elmwood in Oak Park, attending preschool at Barrie Park and elementary school at Irving, where many knew him as the kid who was left at the Museum of Science and Industry on a field trip. Totally unfazed, he had a discussion with a security guard, called his dad, and hung out until the buses picked him up. A preview of his unflappability.
He was a Pack 23 Cub Scout then a Troop 2 Boy Scout, where the pinnacle of his experience was completing the 12-day, 70-mile trek at Philmont Scout Ranch in New Mexico, often in adverse conditions. Scouting fueled his appetite for adventure and prepared him for independence.
When something caught Hank’s interest, he had one speed: 100%. It started with Go-Gos, then World of Tanks, Magic the Gathering, Anime, Manga, boxing, JiuJitsu and then cars and motorcycles. As he became an expert, he would share his passion with friends, and anyone who would listen, to try and bring them aboard.
Of course, he loved playing video games with his crew, but he was also up for adventure. Riding bikes around Oak Park Then snowboarding. Mountain biking. Traveling. Fishing. Snorkeling. Hiking lava tubes. Global thrifting. Taking in European museums, solo, that intrigued him. Car culture hot spots, too.
His diet was equally adventurous — he’d eat anything and everything and want to share it with his crew. He’d drag them to Mexican, Puerto Rican, Jamaican and Chinese places across Chicago. His friends joked he was a sandwich connoisseur. His
staples were cheeseburgers from Pete’s and chicken shawarma from his friend Yusef at North Avenue Falafel (they were on a first name basis). Last week he cooked Japanese curry for his SIU friends.
The kid was funny, both a quick wit and silly. It’s hard to find a photo of him without some type of face that would make you smile. He was also kind. If you needed help with calculus or your car or a laugh on a bad day, all you had to do is ask. He was friendly to everyone. Peers thanked him for helping them get through tough classes.
While curious and thoughtful, he was not studious. He did fine at OPRF and had some great classes and eng aging teachers, but auto shop with Nick Michalek ignited the rocket engine that would power his young adulthood. The combination of problem solving, physical work, science and cool stuf f resonated with his DNA. When Michalek was on paternity leave, Hank often taught the class for the substitute. He found the absolute perfect colle ge fit — the automotive technology and engi-
(John) Yarberry, and Kevin (Leesa) Rosinski; and cousins, Ashley, Megan, and Jacob Yarberry and Kyle Rosinski. Hank is preceded in death by his grandparents, David and Mary Jo Souders.
We thank the Oak Park and River Forest community for their outpouring of love and support during this unthinkable time.
Many remark that “You raised a great kid.” It’s gratifying, but so many families, friends, teachers, coaches and neighbors also helped Hank become the great person he was. We are grateful to you.
A celebration of Hank’s life will be held on Oct. 20 at the Salt Shed in Chicago. Details will be shared at www.hankfest.com.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Hank Souders Scholarship, benefitting SIU auto technology students at https://give.siu.edu/henry-hank-soudersmemorial-scholarship.
Jo Davis, 74
Through her dedicated teaching and generous heart, she shaped a legion of students who set for th to continue the fight for peace and justice throughout the world.
Joan had an indomitable spirit and was a fighter for equality and justice throughout her entire life: for union, labor, women’s rights, and civil rights, and many other progressive causes. She was a leader and activist, inspiring others through speeches and boots-on-the-ground work as much as in her day-to-day interactions and conversations. She lived and embodied the words of her lessons, being the change, and paving the roads she would lead others down. She was also a great lover of life, which was infectious, even in the face of great loss. On any given sunny afternoon, you could find her meditating among her flowers in her beautiful garden, releasing butterflies with her grandson, creating exceptional pottery pieces and art, and always dancing and humming along to the music. A loyal friend, she created and maintained a multi-generational quilt of friendships throughout her life. She loved storytelling ms and instilled that love in her A free spirit, she flowed rld and somehow ounded. she had many opportunities to travel the world with her Jacobs, spreading er the globe, with home relishing the stories of hugging sloths, and swimming with the sharks. And in her final , embracing her role as devoted Nana to her grandson, William.
oan was exceptional as daughter, sister, mother, nana, wife and partner. She was her husband, Bill, and ved by her daughbecca (Bryan Dowling); her grandson, ve; her sister, Gail, Claudio and favorite nephew and the many step/ whom she showfection.
d and appreciated Joan are her memorial on Oct. heney Mansion (220 N. k), the grounds open10 a.m. Please wear your brightest clothing. (Should there ather issues, an alternative location will be announced and posted). lease make a donation osh Davis Memorial Scholarship, rest High School St., Suite 204, Oak , IL 60301 (708-848-1560) https://oprf iphiview.com/oprf/Donate/OnlineDonation.
SPORTS
OPRF f lag football makes strides one victory at a time
Huskies prep for rst IHSA state playo s with ‘huge’ win at Willowbrook
By BILL STONE Contributing Reporter
For Oak Park and River Forest High School girls flag football players, the biggest challenge in the first year as an IHSAsanctioned sport has been the schedule.
“I think all of the girls definitely understand that playing harder teams makes us better,” junior cornerback/linebacker Julia Spencer said. “When we play those teams that aren’t as difficult, we’re prepared and we play better.”
The Huskies’ hard work resulted in their
finest hour Saturday. They earned a 15-14 victory over Willowbrook in their first of three games at the Willowbrook Quad.
When the Huskies (4-8) began as a club program two years ago under coach James Geovanes, they lost 48-0 to the Warriors, who went on to win the state tournament.
“This might be the most important win in our program history,” Geovanes said.
“For the last two years, that’s been our standard, to be as good as they are.”
Junior quarterback Julia Henderson has passed for 845 yards and 18 touchdowns and junior Leia Hammerschmidt has a team-best 297 receiving yards. Other offensive starters are seniors Harper Stotts and Khalaya Cooper-Coleman and juniors
Tavia Allen, Niani Patton and center Oliwia Slezak.
Defensive leaders include juniors Elianna Brucato (87 flag pulls) and Gwen Watters (3 interceptions). Other defensive starters are Spencer, senior Zaria Barker and juniors Aniyah Blackwell, Jonell Clark and Anaiah Hall.
“We have a lot of potential and a lot of juniors, which is good for next year,” Henderson said. “We’ve been really ogressing since the beginning of the year.”
The Huskies were coming an 18-0 win over Hinsdale Central on Friday. They lost to Addison Trail 36-0 and Evanston 20-0 on Saturday. In the third round, Willowbrook beat Addison Trail 18-6 to enge an earlier loss.
Against Willowbrook, the Huskies opened a 15-6 lead before the Warriors got a red-
OPRF quar terback Julia Henderson passes against Addison Trail during the Willowbrook Quad, Sept. 28, in Villa Park.
zone interception and scored with a twopoint conversion. The Huskies halted the Warriors’ final drive and ran out the clock.
“Coach likes to say we’re the underdogs and I think we just showed that,” Henderson said.
“A huge win. We are a very talented football team and getting better,” Geovanes said.
T he Huskies have lost to Addison Trail twice. On Sept. 18, they lost to Willowbrook 22-6 and 2023 state champion Lane Tech 28-14.
“I’ve stacked our schedule on purpose,” Geovanes said. “We don’t want to play cupcakes, and there are a lot of cupcakes out there [as a new IHSA sport]. We want to play the best to get better for when the playoffs come around.”
Senior Faith Anderson is the lone threeyear program member. This season’s roster has been boosted by multi-sport athletes, primarily from softball, track and field, and basketball.
A JV softball player last spring, Henderson played quar terback for the first time
in 2023 after throwing the football around with her father
“I think my arm’s gotten a lot stronger,” Henderson said. “I know how to read the defense more. And how to lead somebody when I throw so when they catch it, they’re not shifting their weight.”
Spencer has been excited with the defense’s improved flag pulling and inter ceptions. A sprinter and thrower in track, she also joined as a sophomore.
“I saw the girls playing after school one day [as a freshman] and I was like, ‘Wow, that seems like fun,’” Spencer said. “It’s just so fun. Everyone on the team is so loving, great coaches.”
The Huskies hope to return to Willowbrook for the first IHSA state finals Oct. 18-19. Their Lane Sectional includes the Champions (14-3), Fenwick and Jones, which beat Lane 12-6, Sept. 14.
“I don’t see any reason why we can’t win a re gional, if not a sectional championship,” Geovanes said. “We can make a pretty serious run, based on our schedule.”
STEVE JOHNSTON
STEVE JOHNSTON OPRF’s Elianna Brucato ags Addison Trail’s Emma Caniglia
OPRF eld hockey nishes strong at invitational
Huskies notch shutout in nal game of their tournament
By MELVIN TATE Contributing Reporter
The Oak Park and River Forest High School field hockey team figured on challenges during their Huskie Invitational last week, due to the presence of several top Midwestern programs.
Although the Huskies dropped their first two games before winning their finale, head coach Kristin Wirtz thought progress was made. The tourney was won by Ann Arbor Pioneer, which defeated Lake Forest in the title game.
“I think the tournament helped us try some things out,” Wirtz said. “It also reminded our athletes that they are a great team, and we can compete with these strong teams.”
On Sept. 27, OPRF (3-8-1) lost the invitational opener to Pioneer 6-0, but Wirtz felt the Huskies played better than the result indicates.
“While the score doesn’t show it, we competed with them strongly for three quarters,” she said. “Our team just needs to remember to believe in themselves.”
Later that evening, the Huskies dropped a tight 2-1 match to Louisville Colle giate. Senior Siena Alfonsi tal-
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: G24000482 on September 13, 2024 Under the Assumed Business Name of HARMONY TREE YOGA with the business located at: 1249 DEERFIELD PKWY, BUFFALO GROVE, IL 60089. The true and real full name(s) and residence address of the owner(s)/partner(s) is: MEGAN BRANCATO 1249 DEERFIELD PKWY APT 303 BUFFALO GROVE, IL 60089, USA
Published in Wednesday Journal September 18, 25, October 2, 2024
NOTICES PUBLIC NOTICE OF COURT DATE FOR REQUEST FOR NAME CHANGE STATE OF ILLINOIS, CIRCUIT COURT COOK COUNTY.
Request of Sarah Jennette Nieman Case Number 20244005683
There will be a court date on my Request to change my name from: Sarah Jennette Nieman to the new name of: Sasha Jennette Nieman
The court date will be held: On November 12, 2024 at 11:00 a.m. at 1311 Maybrook Dr, Maywood, Cook County, IL 60153 in Courtroom # 0112.
Published in Wednesday Journal September 25, October 2, 9, 2024
lied OPRF’s sole goal.
The next day, sophomore Maeve Carmody’s two goals helped OPRF blank Milwaukee Divine Savior Holy Angels 4-0. Seniors Rosie Ondria and Paulina Simkowski each added a goal for the Huskies.
Senior Kiera Locke, whom Wirtz said “had a great weekend,” was in goal for all three games and made over 30 saves in the tournament.
“We also played [Louisville] DuPont, who couldn’t come Friday due to weather from [Hurricane] Helene,” Wirtz added. “It didn’t count toward the tournament. We lost 3-0 in re gular time and then played overtime and shootouts to add some fun.”
With just a few matches remaining before the state playoffs, Wirtz would like to see OPRF sharpen its game, believing at this point it’s more mental than physical.
“We just need to start believing that when things might go wrong, we need to maintain the belief that we can still do it,” she said. “The mental part of the game is always the most challenging, but I believe this group can do it.”
The Huskies will hit the road this weekend as they take part in the Great Lakes Showcase, Oct. 4-5, in Dexter, Michigan.
LEGAL NOTICE
Riverside Township hereby provides public notice that an Audit of its funds for the period April 1, 2023 through March 31, 2024 has been made, and that a report of such audit dated August 30, 2024 performed by Selden Fox, LTD has been filed with the County Clerk of Cook, Illinois, in accordance with 30 ILCS 15/0.01 et seq.
The full report of the audit is available for public inspection at the Riverside Town Hall, 27 Riverside Road, Riverside, Illinois, during regular business hours 9:00 am to 4:00 pm, Monday through Thursday, and 9:00 am to 3:00 pm on Friday, except for holidays.
Published in RB Landmark October 2, 2024
LEGAL NOTICE
The Village of Oak Park will receive sealed Bids from qualified contractors at the Public Works Center, 201 South Blvd., Oak Park, IL 60302 Monday through Friday 7:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. local time until 2:00 p.m. on Wednesday, October 16, 2024 for the following: Village of Oak Park 2025 Parkway Tree Watering Contract Bid Number: 25-101
Bid documents may be obtained from the Village’s website at http://www.oak-park. us/bid. For questions, please call Public Works at (708) 3585700 during the above hours.
Published in Wednesday Journal October 2, 2024
The Village of Oak Park will receive sealed proposals at the Office of the Village Engineer, 201 South Boulevard, Oak Park, Illinois 60302, until 10:00 A.M. on Thursday, October 24, 2024, for the following: 2024 Ridgeland Ave Sewer Siphon Cleaning & Inspection. Proposals can also be sent electronically to msudkamp@ oak-park.us In general, the contract will require the following work: cleaning and inspecting by means of closed‐circuit television (CCTV) the sewer siphon east of Ridgeland Ave under I‐290 and providing reports of CCTV and chamber inspections.
Proposal forms may be obtained from the Village’s website at http://www.oakpark.us/bid. For questions, please call or email Marilyn Sudkamp, (708) 358-5727, msudkamp@oak-park.us. The work to be performed pursuant to this Proposal is subject to the Illinois Prevailing Wage Act, 820 ILCS 130/0.01
Published in Wednesday Journal October 2, 2024
LEGAL NOTICE
ZONING BOARD OF APPEALS
RIVER FOREST, ILLINOIS
Public Notice is hereby given that a public hearing will be held by the Zoning Board of Appeals (ZBA) of the Village of River Forest, County of Cook, State of Illinois, on Thursday, October 17, 2024, at 7:30 p.m. in the First Floor Community Room of the River Forest Village Hall, 400 Park Avenue, River Forest, Illinois on the following matter:
The ZBA will consider an application for a major zoning variation submitted by Cory Croft, owner of the property at 506 Edgewood Place, who is proposing to construct an addition onto the existing house.
Section 4-8-5 of the Village Code provides the Zoning Board jurisdiction to hold public hearings and offer recommendations to the Village Board concerning variations to the Zoning Ordinance.
The applicant is requesting a major variation to Section 10-9-5 of the Zoning Ordinance.
Section 10-9-5 of the Zoning Ordinance (10-8-5) allows a maximum Lot Coverage of 30 percent of the lot area. The proposed addition will increase the Lot Coverage to approximately 33.48 percent of the lot area.
The legal description of the property at 506 Edgewood Place is as follows:
THE NORTH 50 FEET OF THE SOUTH 98 FEET OF LOT 10 IN WALLER AND HUMPHREY’S RESUBDIVISION OF RATTLE AND WALLER’S SUBDIVISION OF PART OF LOTS 2 AND 3 IN THATCHER PARK SUBDIVISION AND LOT 3 IN SUBDIVISION BY ZENOT COBB AND DAVID C. THATCHER IN THE
NORTHEAST 1/4 OF SECTION 11, TOWNSHIP 39 NORTH, RANGE 12 EAST OF THE THIRD PRINCIPAL MERIDIAN, IN COOK COUNTY, ILLINOIS.
A copy of the application will be available to the public at Village Hall and on the Village’s website at www. vrf.us/zoningvariation no less than 7 days prior to the public hearing. The Zoning Board of Appeals meeting packet will also be available at www.vrf.us/meetings no less than 48 hours prior to the public hearing. All interested persons will be given the opportunity to be heard at the public hearing. For public comments to be considered by the Zoning Board of Appeals and Village Board of Trustees in their decision, they must be included as part of the public hearing record. Interested persons can learn more about how to participate in the hearing by visiting www.vrf.us/zoningvariation
Sincerely, Clifford Radatz
Secretary, Zoning Board of Appeals
Published in Wednesday Journal October 2, 2024
STEVE JOHNSTON OPRF’s Siena Alfonsi sends the ball up eld against Pioneer High School dur ing the Huskie Inv ite Sept. 27, in Oak Park.
LEGAL NOTICE
The Village of Oak Park will receive qualifications submittals via email to the Public Works Department, at eduffy@ oak-park.us until 3:00 P.M. on Wednesday, October 23, 2024, for the following: Project 24-130 – Schematic Design Architectural Services for Oak Park Municipal Campus.
The Village of Oak Park is proposing a renovation of the existing Village Hall facility to meet the needs of modern Village governance while preserving the historic integrity of the existing building and the spirit of Open Government. Due to space constraints within the existing facility footprint and operational space needs for both Police and Village Hall operation, the Village of Oak Park is also proposing to construct a new Police Department facility adjacent to the Village Hall facility on the existing site. The intent of this portion of the project is to engage an architectural firm with experience in design of renovations to historic commercial and municipal buildings and experience in programming and design of police facilities.
The Request for Qualifications may be obtained from the Village’s website at http://www. oak-park.us/bid starting on Wednesday, October 2, 2024. For questions, please call or email Erin Duffy, Deputy Public Works Director, at 708-3585700 or eduffy@oak-park.us.
Published in Wednesday Journal October 2, 2024
EQUAL HOUSING OPPORTUNITY
All real estate advertising in this newspaper is subject to the Fair Housing Act, which makes it illegal to advertise any preference, limitation or discrimination based on age, race, color, religion, sex, handicap, familial status or national origin, or intention to make any such preferences, limitations or discrimination.
The Illinois Human Rights Act prohibits discrimination in the sale, rental or advertising of real estate based on factors in addition to those protected under federal law.
This newspaper will not knowingly accept any advertising for real estate which is in violation of the law. All persons are hereby informed that all dwellings advertised are available on an equal opportunity basis.
Restrictions or prohibitions of pets do not apply to service animals.
To complain of discrimination, call HUD toll free at: 1-800-669-9777. GROWING COMMUNITY MEDIA
LEGAL NOTICE
ZONING BOARD OF APPEALS RIVER FOREST, ILLINOIS
Public Notice is hereby given that a public hearing will be held by the Zoning Board of Appeals (ZBA) of the Village of River Forest, County of Cook, State of Illinois, on Thursday, October 17, 2024, at 7:30 p.m. in the First Floor Community Room of the River Forest Village Hall, 400 Park Avenue, River Forest, Illinois on the following matter:
The ZBA will consider an application for a major zoning variation submitted by Steven Hoover, owner of the property at 633 Ashland Avenue, who is proposing to construct an addition onto the existing house.
Section 4-8-5 of the Village Code provides the Zoning Board jurisdiction to hold public hearings and offer recommendations to the Village Board concerning variations to the Zoning Ordinance.
The applicant is requesting a major variation to Section 10-9-5 of the Zoning Ordinance.
Section 10-9-5 of the Zoning Ordinance (10-8-5) allows a maximum Floor Area Ratio of 0.40 (40 percent of the lot area). The proposed addition will increase the Floor Area Ratio to approximately 0.4572.
The legal description of the property at 633 Ashland Avenue is as follows: LOT 44 IN BLOCK 2 IN RIVER FOREST, BEING A SUBDIVISION OF PART OF SECTION 12, TOWNSHIP 39 NORTH, RANGE 12, EAST OF THE THIRD PRINCIPAL MERIDIAN, AS SURVEYED FOR THE SUBURBAN HOME MUTUAL LAND ASSOCIATION ACCORDING TO THE PLAT THEREOF RECORDED JUNE 23, 1890 AS DOCUMENT 1291334, IN COOK COUNTY, ILLINOIS.
A copy of the application will be available to the public at Village Hall and on the Village’s website at www. vrf.us/zoningvariation no less than 7 days prior to the public hearing. The Zoning Board of Appeals meeting packet will also be available at www. vrf.us/meetings no less than 48 hours prior to the public hearing. All interested persons will be given the opportunity to be heard at the public hearing. For public comments to be considered by the Zoning Board of Appeals and Village Board of Trustees in their decision, they must be included as part of the public hearing record. Interested persons can learn more about how to participate in the hearing by visiting www.vrf.us/ zoningvariation.
Sincerely, Clifford Radatz Secretary, Zoning Board of Appeals
Published in Wednesday Journal October 2, 2024
LEGAL NOTICE
ZONING BOARD OF APPEALS
RIVER FOREST, ILLINOIS
Public Notice is hereby given that
a public hearing will be held by the Zoning Board of Appeals (ZBA) of the Village of River Forest, County of Cook, State of Illinois, on Thursday, October 17, 2024, at 7:30 p.m. in the First Floor Community Room of the River Forest Village Hall, 400 Park Avenue, River Forest, Illinois on the following matter:
The ZBA will consider an application for major zoning variations submitted by Matt and Liz Heintz, owners of the property at 1105 Park Avenue, who are proposing to construct accessory structures on the property.
Section 4-8-5 of the Village Code provides the Zoning Board jurisdiction to hold public hearings and offer recommendations to the Village Board concerning variations to the Zoning Ordinance.
The applicants are requesting major variations to Section 10-9-7 of the Zoning Ordinance.
Section 10-9-7 of the Zoning Ordinance (10-8-7-C-1) requires the minimum side yard setback to be equal to 10 percent of the lot width or 5 feet, whichever is greater. The minimum required side yard setback for this property is 20 feet. The applicants propose to construct an accessory pergola structure with a setback of 13’-6” from the north property line and an accessory outdoor fireplace with a setback of 8’-5” from the north property line.
Section 10-9-7 of the Zoning Ordinance (10-8-7-A) requires a front yard setback based on the average of the existing front yard setbacks of the homes along the same side of the street and on the same block.
The average front yard setback has been calculated to be 52.43 feet.
The applicants propose to construct an accessory pergola structure with a setback of 44’-7” from the west property line.
The legal description of the property at 1105 Park Avenue is as follows: LOTS 7 AND 8 IN BLOCK 3 IN SUBDIVISION OF PART OF NORTHWOODS, BEING THE NORTH HALF OF THE EAST HALF OF THE SOUTHWEST QUARTER OF SECTION 1, TOWNSHIP 39 NORTH, RANGE 12 EAST OF THE THIRD PRINCIPAL MERIDIAN, IN COOK COUNTY, ILLINOIS.
A copy of the application will be available to the public at Village Hall and on the Village’s website at www. vrf.us/zoningvariation no less than 7 days prior to the public hearing.
The Zoning Board of Appeals meeting packet will also be available at www.vrf.us/meetings no less than 48 hours prior to the public hearing.
All interested persons will be given the opportunity to be heard at the public hearing. For public comments to be considered by the Zoning Board of Appeals and Village Board of Trustees in their decision, they must be included as part of the public hearing record. Interested persons can learn more about how to participate in the hearing by visiting www.vrf.us/zoningvariation.
Sincerely, Clifford
Radatz Secretary,
Zoning Board of Appeals
Published in Wednesday Journal October 2, 2024
NOTICE TO CONTRACTORS
Notice is hereby given by the President and Board of Trustees of the Village of River Forest, Cook County, Illinois, that sealed bids will be accepted for:
2024 Lead Service Line Replacement Project
The project scope is the full replacement of lead service lines from the water main or from the B-Box through to the interior of the building, including connection to the water meter as identified. Work includes complete connection of the new service line, disconnection of the old lead service line and associated site restoration.
The bidding documents are available for download starting Thursday, September 26, 2024 at:
www.vrf.us/bids
Bids must be submitted by Thursday, October 24, 2024, at 10:00 a.m. at:
Public Works Department, 2nd Floor Village of River Forest 400 Park Avenue River Forest, IL 60305
The bid proposals will be publicly opened and read at that time. Proposals will be considered not only on the basis of cost, but also on past performance, experience and ability to perform the work.
No bid shall be withdrawn after the opening of the Proposals without the consent of the President and Board of Trustees of the Village of River Forest for a period of thirty (30) days after the scheduled time of the bid opening.
The Village of River Forest reserves the right in receiving these bids to waive technicalities and reject any or all bids.
Published in Wednesday Journal October 2, 2024
IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF COOK COUNTY, ILLINOIS COUNTY DEPARTMENT - CHANCERY DIVISION
U.S. BANK TRUST NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, NOT IN ITS INDIVIDUAL CAPACITY BUT SOLELY AS OWNER TRUSTEE FOR RCF 2 ACQUISITION TRUST Plaintiff, -v.-
CHRISTOPHER J. HANSON, JPMORGAN CHASE BANK, N.A.
Defendants 2022 CH 09656 1138 ERIE ST 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 July 22, 2024, an agent for The Judicial Sales Corporation, will at 10:30 A.M. on October 24, 2024, 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:
THE WEST 37 FEET OF LOT 4 IN SCHULTZS SUBDIVISION IN THE SOUTHWEST 1/4 OF BLOCK 6 IN KETTLESTRINGS ADDITION TO HARLEM, BEING A SUBDIVISION IN SECTION 7, TOWNSHIP 39 NORTH, RANGE 13 EAST OF THE THIRD PRINCIPAL MERIDIAN, IN COOK COUNTY, ILLINOIS.
Commonly known as 1138 ERIE ST., OAK PARK, IL 60302
Property Index No. 16-07-106-0180000
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, in certified funds/or wire transfer, is due within twenty-four (24) hours. 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 Cer tificate 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 mort gagee, 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 foreclo sure sale other than a mortgagee shall pay the assessments required by The Condominium Property Act, 765 ILCS 605/18.5(g-1).
REAL ESTATE FOR SALE
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) 7949876 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. 14-22-04152
Attorney ARDC No. 00468002
Attorney Code. 21762 Case Number: 2022 CH 09656 TJSC#: 44-2028
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 09656 I3252359
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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
