W E D N E S D A Y
Talking EQUITY. What’s working. SAY event Nov. 28, page 35
JOURNAL of Oak Park and River Forest
November 21, 2018 Vol. 39, No. 16 ONE DOLLAR @oakpark @wednesdayjournal
Building a better assessment system
Oak Parker Fritz Kaegi gears up to make good on campaign promises By TIMOTHY INKLEBARGER Staff Reporter
Oak Parker Fritz Kaegi has a little less than two weeks before becoming Cook County assessor, a position that in most other parts of the country is largely overlooked by most of the public — Kaegi says he’d like to make it that way here, too. Kaegi’s goal is not to fly under the radar when he takes office on Dec. 3; his idea is to make the assessor’s office and its business so transparent and routine that it becomes trusted and free of the consternation most building owners have historically dealt with concerning their property tax assessments. In the March primary, Kaegi soundly defeated incumbent Joe Berrios, who also served as chairman of the Cook County Democratic Party, and faced no serious opponent in the general election. The success of the political outsider — Kaegi previously worked as an asset manager for Columbia Wanger Asset Management — was a direct challenge to the power structure of the Cook County Democratic Party. Now Kaegi is working to make good on his campaign promises to fix a broken assessment system, which he argued was unfair and benefitted wealthy property owners. “Everyone in the Chicago area has their own stoSee KAEGI on page 15
Photo by Paul Goyette
CHANGE NOW: Student activists with OPRF’s Black Leaders Union and Students Advocating for Equity speak during the public comment portion of a regular school board meeting on Nov. 15. They want the district to speed up its implementation of a racial equity policy and related procedures.
‘We urge you to move quickly on this!’ OPRF students, community leaders urge school board to enact equity changes By MICHAEL ROMAIN Staff Reporter
For two Sundays in a row this month, student activists at Oak Park and River Forest High School have circulated petitions, protested and led marches in order to pressure District 200 administrators and board members to act swiftly in implementing a series of demands in the area of racial equity.
SAVE THE DATE
During a regular board meeting held Nov. 15, students and community members kept the pressure on even as they acknowledged the support they’ve received from district officials, particularly D200 Supt. Joylynn Pruitt-Adams and board President Jackie Moore. As a crowd of roughly 100 people stood in support, students with clubs such as the Black Leaders Union (BLU) and Students Advocating for Equity (SAFE) told board members during public comment
that they would like to see the district hire and retain more teachers of color. “We’re asking that you all consider [forming] a racial consciousness committee as far as hiring, because, unfortunately, whiteness isn’t something that just affects white people,” said OPRF senior and SAFE member Grace Gunn. “It affects people of all colors, too. Examine every teacher you all hire.” See EQUITY on page 12
SAY Connects presents, After “America to Me”: On the Ground in Oak Park and River Forest
A community conversation for our villages on Wednesday, Nov. 28, 2018 Julian Middle School Auditorium • 7:00 p.m. - 8:30 p.m.
FREE RSVP at: www.OakPark.com/sayconnects
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Wednesday Journal, November 21, 2018
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Wednesday Journal, November 21, 2018
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I N S I D E
R E P O R T
Oak Parkers earn Chicago Mag, Forbes accolades Oak Park has never been in short supply when it comes to interesting people doing important work, and three locals are getting some well-earned recognition for STEVE JAMES Filmmaker their efforts. Chicago Magazine recently named Oak Parkers Steve James and Maria Woltjen as Chicagoans of the Year, and Forbes Magazine named Michelle MARIA WOLTJEN Mbekeani-Wiley Immigration advocate in its 30 Under 30 in the Law & Policy category. Celebrated filmmaker James directed the documentary series America to Me about educational equity at Oak Park and River Forest High School, which ran earlier this fall on Starz. “Somehow, James transformed the daily doings of a suburban Chicago public school into an exegesis of who we are as a nation and how we’re raising and teaching our kids,” the magazine notes. Woltjen is founder and director of the Young Center for Immigrant Children’s Rights and is a national voice on issues of immigration. Chicago Magazine notes that the center served 822 clients this year, “submitting so-called best-interest recommendations to judges to avert deportation.” Mbekeani-Wiley, who is an occasional
contributor to Wednesday Journal and policy advisor for the Cook County State’s Attorney’s Office, was recognized by Forbes for her work on a report MICHELLE MBEKEANI- “on harmful policies in Chicago WILEY Public Schools Attorney that resulted in a new state law dictating training procedures.”
Timothy Inklebarger
Golub to tell its 28-story story
The public at-large will get their first chance to see a new proposal for a 28-story luxury apartment building planned for 835 Lake St. by Golub & Company on Nov. 26 at 7 p.m. in the ballroom of the 19th Century Club, 178 Forest Ave. Property owners within 300 feet of the proposed development, which will be located less than half a block of Frank Lloyd Wright’s Unity Temple, 875 Lake St., recently received a letter from Golub announcing the meeting. The property is currently home to a US Bank branch drive-thru. Golub representatives have reportedly met with the leadership at Unity Temple and recently held a meeting with residents of the Courtland Condominiums, which is adjacent to the building site. Neither the press nor the public were allowed to attend the meeting with Courtland residents.
Transformative
ALEXA ROGALS/Staff Photographer
A memorial for transgender women of color who were murdered in 2018 is displayed near the entrance inside the Oak Park Public Library on Lake Street. The display was put up for Transgender Day of Remembrance by the Trans Task Force. The letter sent to residents within 300 feet of the property acknowledges that the building planned will be 28 stories and will contain 256 units, a 3,500-squarefoot bank drive-thru facility and 195 parking spaces.
Timothy Inklebarger
Make your voice heard at D97 event
Oak Park Elementary Schools District 97 will host a community summit on Nov. 27 to update residents on the district’s progress and allow an opportunity to interact with district administrators. The summit will take place at D97’s administrative offices, 260
Madison St. in Oak Park. Child care will be provided. Among things that will be discussed: ■ Strengthening elementary school literacy instruction ■ Strengthening middle school instruction ■ Co-teaching expansion (inclusive teaching practices) ■ Social-emotional supports ■ Culture/climate supports “As you meet and speak with district and school officials and staff, we are hoping you will share your thoughts and reactions on how the year is going so far with your child,” district officials said in a flyer advertising the event. “Additionally, toward the end of the session, we will host a town hall so that you can ask questions regarding our schools.”
708.383.9000 • forestagency.com
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Wednesday Journal, November 21, 2018
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Nov. 21 - 28
BIG WEEK Turkey Trot Hike Friday, Nov. 23, 1 p.m., Trailside Museum: Get on your feet after that turkey dinner and take a special post-holiday guided hike on the trails. Free. Register: 708-366-6530. 738 Thatcher Ave., River Forest.
Autumn Walk Sunday, Nov. 25, 1 p.m., Trailside Museum: Explore the beauty of fall on a guided nature walk through the woods, by the pond and near the river. Free. Questions: 708-366-6530. 738 Thatcher Ave., River Forest.
Oak Park Boy in “A Christmas Carol” Through Sunday, Dec. 30, Albert, Goodman Theatre: See Dickens’ classic on stage with Oak Park’s own Henry Lombardo, a Holmes Elementary fourth-grader, playing Tiny Tim most weeknights and Ignorance during other shows. $35 and up. Tickets/more: goodmantheatre. org. 170 N. Dearborn St., Chicago.
Art in Oak Park City and Country Through Wednesday, Nov. 28, Prairie Title Services: View an exhibit of paintings by Shelley Timm-Thompson, during regular business hours. Brought by The Oak Park Area Arts Council. 6821 W. North Ave., Oak Park.
Wood Sculptures Through Friday, Nov. 30, Maze Library: The work of found-wood sculptor Harden Taylor is on view during regular library hours, Mondays through Thursdays, 10 a.m. to 9 p.m., Saturdays, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Sundays, 1 to 6 p.m. 845 Gunderson Ave., Oak Park.
Black Hawk’s View of Illinois History Monday, Nov. 26, 1:15 p.m., Nineteenth Century Club:
It is Native American Heritage Month. Drawing from Black Hawk’s autobiography and his knowledge of American Indian Cosmology, Brian “Fox” Ellis portrays the reporter who transcribed and published Black Hawk’s life story. $15, requested donation. More: nineteenthcentury.org. 178 Forest Ave, Oak Park.
ABLE (A Better Life Experience) Accounts Workshop Wednesday, Nov. 28, 6:30 p.m., Oak Park & River Forest High School: ABLE accounts provide a way to save for the present and future needs of individuals with developmental disabilities. Presented by J.J. Hanley, Director of Illinois ABLE State Treasurer’s Office. Sponsored by the Community Mental Health Board of Oak Park Township. RSVP: evite.me/ ybNF6WB7py. 201 Scoville Ave., Oak Park.
Frosty’s Winter Wonderland Puppet Show Sunday, Nov. 25, 2 to 3 p.m., Meeting Room, River Forest Library: Dave Herzog brings his marionettes to life as Frosty and friends celebrate the holidayss. Ages 3 and up. Registeer: riverforestlibrary.org. 735 Lathrop Ave.
Amazing Artists: Paull Cézanne Monday, Nov. 26, 4 to 5 p.m., Meeting Room, River Forest Libraryy: Learn about the French post-impressionnist and create an art piece inspired by his style. Grades K through 4. Register: riverforestlibrary.org. 735 Lathrop Ave.
Craftsgiving
Networking to a Jazz Beat
Wednesday, Nov. 21, 2 to 3 p.m., Meeting Room, River Forest Library: Celebrate Thanksgiving by creating crafts and decorations for holiday festivities. For grades K through 4. Register: riverforestlibrary.org. 735 Lathrop Ave.
Tuesday, Nov. 27, 6 p.m., Eastgate Café: Award-winning jazz pianist Doug Lalli starts the evening with jazz classics and original tunes. Then, marketing writer and Chicago Tribune career advice columnist Wendy Lalli leads introductions (6:30). It’s an opportunity for small business owners and professionals to connect. Food and cocktails available to order. Meets weekly. 102 Harrison St., Oak Park.
Record Store Day
Senior Living Options
Friday, Nov. 23, 9 a.m. to 7 p.m., Val’s halla Records: Spend Black Friday shopping local for limited edition titles and discounts while listening to live music from Big Hair Big Trouble, Constantine, Butterbean, Scott Williams, Black Friars Club and Southside Exiles. Sales extend through Monday. Questions: 708524-1004. More: valshallarecords. com. 239 Harrison St., Oak Park.
Tuesday, Nov. 27, 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., Lower Level, Classrooms A-D, West Suburban Medical Center: There are many different options for aging or retirement — aging in place, low- or mediumincome housing, subsidized living, rentals and buy-in options. There are choices for those who require, or will require, memory care, too. Join reps from Bridgeway Senior Living for a discussion of alternatives. Register: 844-794-4301. 3 Erie Ct., Oak Park
The Living History Presentation
Maker Series: Green Screen Photos
Wednesday, Nov. 28, 5 to 7 p.m., Veterans Room, Main Library: At this More Than a Mic event, hear students engage in a public dialogue about civil and human rights during spoken word performances and a Q&A. More: oppl.org/calendar. 834 Lake St., Oak Park.
Saturday, Nov. 24, noon to 1 p.m., and Monday, Nov. 26, 7 to 8 p.m., Computer Classroom, Main Library: Students grade 6 through 12, bring your family and take a holiday photo in front of the green screen. Each participant gets a copy of the photo and the original emailed. Register: oppl.org/ calendar. 834 Lake St., Oak Park.
Wednesday Journal, November 21, 2018
OAKPARK.COM | RIVERFOREST.COM
ART BEAT
Off-white Christmas stories By DONALD G. EVANS
S
Guest Author
illy smiles in footie pajamas. Gleeful grins beneath mad scientist hair. There’s me holding up Rock ’em Sock ’em Robots and pointing at G.I. Joe with Kung Fu Grip. The camera did not record for posterity a feverish Donnie stuck in his sick bed, or Grandma Knight’s dachshund felling her tree amidst a ruckus of crashing ornaments and tinsel. Here in our own Oak Park bungalow many decades later, I tried to bring that elation to my own son’s sugared-up holiday morning, and felt personally responsible for the tiniest details, down to the weather. During one of those getting-close Donald Evans December mornings, I looked at a landscape I’d heard rd described as white, but saw innstead snow that had been trammpled, dirtied and violated in a thousand ways. We instinctively want to o bring joy, but the standards to do so are impossibly high, as life swirls around us, oblivious to the calendar. The title story, “An OffWhite Christmas,” came first, and it was not intended to be part of anything larger. The war story came next — it, too, was a one-off, coincidentally set around Christmas. Then there was the Vegas story, in which snow globes were objects that had figurative relevance. A theme had assembled itself, and I envisioned a larger arc for the stories, one in which I would be able to roam the country peeking into houses where various people tried in various ways to make this one day matter. I tried to infuse the stories with a certain Christmas spirit, but not the idealized inventions of a world insistently trying to sell to us. These stories were written over years, not months, and during that time I thought of my family, as well as friends as varied as a jumbo Crayola box. The spirit I found myself pursuing had to do with laughter, reflection, hope and a kind of perspective on the life we have versus the one we always thought we wanted. When I started thinking of the stories collectively as a book, I brainstormed about what that should look like. Mostly, I wanted what every writer wants, appreciative readers. Beyond that, I wanted the publication
to be an occasion, like Christmas itself, and the book to be one of those gifts you hold up for the camera. Hannah Jennings, a fellow Oak Parker and a woman whose abundant talents I’d come to know first through work, then friendship, agreed to do the illustrations. When Hannah consulted me about style and preferences, I mostly deferred to her own artistic vision, wanting, like everyone else, to be pleasantly surprised at how her interpretations might enhance the reading experience. Hannah’s illustrations surprised and delighted me. Her work on the book showed keen attention to detail, making, I don’t even know how, snowflakes sparkle and snow globes pop. I no longer believe in God, but I still believe in Christmas. Hannah Jennings For me, it’s an excuse. A reason. An occasion. We all, regardless of our beliefs, need excuses to carve out time to be our best as friends, parents, b siblings, neighbors, even s as a strangers, willing to help where help is needed. h C Christmas does that for m What higher calling me. do I have than to somehow precipitate my son’s ginorpr mous grin, or my wife’s m sparkling smile, or my sp mom’s peppy approval or mo my sister’s contented cluck? To think there is a moT ment each year when we me all agree to do this for each other makes me more optimistic than many of my highly skeptical characters. Donald G. Evans is the founding executive director of the Chicago Literary Hall of Fame, a recipient of the Chicago Writers Association’s lifetime achievement award and a four-time honoree in Newcity’s Lit 50 section. Previous works include “Good Money After Bad” and “Cubbie Blues: 100 Years of Waiting Till Next Year.” See Evans and Jennings at a reading and discussion of “An Off-White Christmas,” Saturday, Dec. 1, from 2 to 3 p.m., Veterans Room, Main Library, 834 Lake St., Oak Park. On Sunday, Dec. 2 at 4 p.m., Hamburger Mary’s, Oak Park Festival Theatre will read two stories from the collection. Doors open 3 p.m. 155 S. Oak Park Ave., Oak Park. Books available for purchase and signing at both events. More: donaldgevans.com/appearances, eckhartzpress.com/shop/an-off-whitechristmas.
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Join us on Small Business Saturday for a festive holiday shopping event at your hometown museum shop. • Draw a discount up to 50% off your purchase • Special dining offers from our community restaurant partners • Sip complimentary champagne • Free gift wrapping
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Wednesday Journal, November 21, 2018
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Holland’s persuasive equity message
Since 1987 we’ve been supplying the Oak Park area with fresh Christmas trees of the highest possible quality. In addition to trees, you will also find wreaths of all sizes, garland, tree stands, etc. Local delivery is available - we can even set it up for you. And to top it all off, we offer free hot chocolate, apple cider, cookies and candy canes!
H
ad a double dose of Chala Holland recently as the former assistant principal at OPRF was back in town, first as part of a panel talking about America to Me and a few days later when she presented on equity in education in a session at the Main Library. Blunt and compelling, Holland made a strong case for vigorously ramping up equity initiatives at our high school, at all schools, as we rethink fundamentals of how we learn and how we teach, how we acknowledge and address the systemic racism that is in the roots of OPRF and every other public school. “Schools are historically conservative,” she told an animated audience at the library. “They don’t change often or easily.” And, she said, schools are fundamentally about “order and compliance.” Holland, who turned up early and powerfully in the 10-part OPRF documentary, worked as assistant principal at the school for four years. But she left our high school, as too many teachers and administrators of color do. She is now the principal of Lake Forest High School. She “tries to imagine entirely different educational spaces and then I always go to a model I’ve seen at other schools.” It seems it is hard to be as radical as the situation calls for when the pull of the educational norm is so powerful. In her thoughtful and provocative presentation Holland talked about schools that are stuck in a command-and-control model, a patriarchal model that most other institutions have worked hard to shed, admittedly with mixed results. A week back, I wrote a piece urging the school board at OPRF to focus its capital improvement plan on projects most connected to equity. A few critics said equity isn’t about bricks-andmortar construction projects. Can’t argue that, though new student learning spaces and gathering spaces have their place in equity work.
At its heart, though, the bold work of equity is in the culture, the ethos of a place. It is in the people assembled and which direction they are looking. And it is where we have so often failed because the questions are so challenging, the change so gut-level. Holland talks plainly about the permanence of racism and patriarchy, about white privilege, about classrooms that are teachercentered when they need to be centered on the complex needs of students. This is the system we have built, and, she says, on a fundamental level “systems mirror what we believe.” “We are the problem,” said Holland, and it is not that we are necessarily malicious in our intent. That said, “none of us is off the hook” when it comes to fostering actual change. “I still have hope,” she said, “if we all take personal responsibility to fight for something better.” At the end of the session at the library, a recent OPRF grad asked Holland how the school could build scale related to the innovation, caring and passion he had seen in both Holland and Jessica Stovall, another teacher of color featured in America to Me, another person who has, at least temporarily, left the school. Breaking my usual just-a-reporter-with-a-notebook mode I suggested the first step in building scale was to stop losing the talent you already have.
DAN HALEY
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Our equity event A week from now, Nov. 28, Success of All Youth (SAY) and the Journal will partner on an event shining a light on the grassroots equity work already underway in our villages. And it is considerable. There’ll be six people on the panel. Doris Davenport, radio host, will moderate. The event is at Percy Julian Middle School from 7 to 8:30 p.m. Admission is free but you need to reserve a ticket at OakPark.com/sayconnects.
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Wednesday Journal, 141 S. Oak Park Ave., Oak Park, Illinois 60302 PHONE 708-524-8300 ■ FAX 708-467-9066 ■ ONLINE www.OakPark.com | www.RiverForest.com CIRCULATION Jill Wagner, 708-613-3340 circulation@oakpark.com DISPLAY ADVERTISING Dawn Ferencak, 708-613-3329 dawn@oakpark.com
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CALENDAR Michelle Dybal calendar@wjinc.com SPORTS/PARKS Marty Farmer, 708-613-3319 marty@oakpark.com
Wednesday Journal is published weekly by Wednesday Journal, Inc. POSTMASTER: Please send address changes to Wednesday Journal, 141 S. Oak Park Ave., Oak Park, IL 60302-2901. Periodical rate postage paid at Oak Park, Illinois (USPS No. 0010-138). In-county subscription rate is $32 per year, $57 for two years. Annual out-of-county rate is $40. © 2018 Wednesday Journal, Inc.
Wednesday Journal, November 21, 2018
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OPRF students crowd out hate with loving Post-its Students, staff stick encouraging notes on lockers in aftermath of racial incidents
By MICHAEL ROMAIN Staff Reporter
In the aftermath of a rough several weeks in November at Oak Park and River Forest High School — with incidents involving racist and antiSemitic graffiti and air-dropped swastikas dominating local and national headlines — students and employees are doubling down on love. Last week, students involved with various extracurricular groups, such as Students Advocating for Equity (SAFE) and Black Leaders Union (BLU), teamed up with OPRF staffer Shoneice Reynolds to carry out a Lockers of Love initiative. The goal? Students plan to stick encouraging Post-it notes on every locker in the school. The notes contain affirming messages such as “Love always wins,” and “You are awesome.” During a regular school board meeting on Nov. 15, OPRF senior Grace Gunn, a member of SAFE, lauded Reynolds for the idea. “The initial idea came from Ms.
Reynolds and [me]. I want to recognize her and everything she does for every student,” Gunn said, before urging those in attendance to show Reynolds “the love, gratitude, appreciation and respect she deserves.” The Lockers of Love initiative comes after OPRF was rocked with cases of racist and anti-Semitic graffiti that were discovered on campus on Nov. 2 and Nov. 6. On Nov. 9, a student used Apple’s AirDrop feature to send the image of a swastika to students’ cellphones during a Tradition of Excellence assembly. School officials and Oak Park police eventually identified a 14-year-old OPRF student as the culprit and charged him with dissemination of an obscene message. During a Nov. 14 juvenile court hearing, a judge scolded the student before releasing him to the custody of his parents. “Our students and staff members took a wonderful step forward today with spreading love,” Supt. Joylynn Pruitt-Adams said on Nov. 15, referencing the Post-its. CONTACT: michael@oakpark.com
Photo provided by OPRF High Schoolle
LOCKERS OF LOVE: OPRF students practiced love speech as an antidote to hate speech last week.
Wednesday Journal, November 21, 2018
OAKPARK.COM | RIVERFOREST.COM
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101 S. Marion St. Oak Park, IL 60302
Community coffee shop suffers setback Location eyed by organizer, trustee purchased By TIMOTHY INKLEBARGER Staff Reporter
Things have been quiet for the last year on the idea of establishing a community owned coffee shop in northeast Oak Park, but one thing is for sure – it won’t be located at 130 Chicago Ave. That’s because the property was recently purchased for a different business. Theresa Jurgus, a broker associate with Baird & Warner who managed the deal, declined to discuss the plans for the location, which previously was Zephyr Cleaners, but she did say it was not likely to be a dry cleaner business in the future. She did note that it is under local ownership and “someone capable of doing a great job with this property.” The property was being watched closely by Oak Park Village Trustee Deno Andrews, who put out a call last year to northeast Oak Parkers interested in establishing a co-opstyle community funded business. He estimated it would cost about $700,000 to get the venture off the ground. In August of 2017, Andrews had more than 220 people who had committed to contribute approximately $325,600 toward the venture. “As a fractional owner, you would not be required to do any work, but you would have voting rights,” Andrews wrote last year. “There would be a board of directors, freely elected each year by owners, to oversee policy and operations, and profit distribution.” Andrews, who is the former owner of Felony Franks restaurant on North Avenue – that business closed up shop about a year ago – said in a recent interview that the community café concept is “very much alive”. “I don’t want it to fail, so I’m not just going to jump on the wrong space,” he said. tim@oakpark.com W E D N E S D A Y
JOURNAL of Oak Park and River Forest
To run an obituary Please contact Ken Trainor by e-mail: ktrainor@wjinc.com, or fax: 708/524-0447 before Monday at noon. Please include a photo if possible.
Wednesday Journal, November 21, 2018
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After 44 years, Women’s Exchange closing its doors
Marketplace for women crafters has had difficulty attracting new members By TIMOTHY INKLEBARGER Staff Reporter
When the Oak Park Women’s Exchange — a business dedicated to empowering women to help support themselves through arts and crafts — was first established in 1974, its organizers had a problem getting the store off the ground. You might be able to guess what stood in the way. “At the time nobody would give them a loan,” said Deanne Alexander, publicity chair and display chair at the exchange, explaining the widespread discrimination women faced only four decades ago. “Somebody came in and backed them up — it was a man,” she said with a knowing chuckle. That’s what it took for women to succeed in an era where many still were blocked from the workforce. While the glass ceiling still has plenty of breaking to do, times have changed, and such exchanges, once numbering in the hundreds nationwide, have largely closed, due in part to inactivity from members.
The women’s exchange in Oak Park, located at 839 S. Oak Park Ave., is following suit, its members announcing they will close the shop at the end of the year. Alexander, a soap maker who has been involved as a vendor at the exchange for the last two decades, said a number of issues have prompted the exchange’s closure: increasing online sales; higher rent; and difficulty staffing the store. She said the store took a major hit from the economic crisis of 2008 and never fully recovered. Online shops like Amazon and Etsy have also cut into the exchange’s bottom line, Alexander said. Another challenge is the time commitment from its members. Alexander said the exchange is a co-op and artisans who sell their wares there also are required to work eight hours a month without pay. “I think a lot of people went to work, so they didn’t have that window of time to donate,” she said. “Younger members could no longer do that.” Diane Symonanis, co-chair of the exchange’s finance committee and a jewelry maker, praised the skills and creativity of the women involved in the exchange over the years. “Unfortunately, we live in a time where that isn’t appreciated as much as it used to be,” she said, noting that the operating costs of running the shop — rent, telephone, elec-
Photo provide by Oak Park Women’s Exchange
END OF AN ERA: Oak Park Women’s Exchange will close at the end of the year. tricity and the cost of paying a percentage of their sales to credit card companies — made the venture financially unfeasible. The shop, which features the work of 33 local artisans — that number was once closer to 200 — is one of the last women’s exchanges in the country. Only about two dozen such shops remain. The Oak Park Women’s Exchange, when
first established, joined a growing tide of such exchanges throughout the nation that gave crafters, artists and makers a place not only to sell their wares but to join a community of women. Symonanis will miss the friendships she’s made over the years. “It’s a nice group of people,” she said. tim@oakpark.com
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Wednesday Journal, November 21, 2018
OAKPARK.COM | RIVERFOREST.COM
River Forest trustees announce election plans
Gibbs will run, Conti and Corsini are done By NONA TEPPER Staff Reporter
River Forest trustees have made decisions about their plans for the upcoming April 2019, when three spots will open on the board. Trustee Michael Gibbs will run for reelection; trustees Susan Conti and Carmela Corsini have announced they will not.
Michael Gibbs Gibbs, an elevator inspector and salesman who is aiming for this third term on the Board of Trustees, said he wants to finish the work he started with the recently approved developments at Lake and Lathrop and at Chicago and Harlem. “I want to see the concrete being poured and shove in the dirt, all that stuff. We made a pledge to the neighbors, to the citizens, and I want to be around to be held responsible,” Gibbs said. He called the senior home development at Chicago and Harlem a “big thing,” saying
that the development will provide a helpful source of revenue outside of property taxes. Once built, the village estimated the development will be the third-largest property tax generator in River Forest. Gibbs named finding revenue sources outside of property taxes as the greatest challenge the village faces. “Shy of pickpocketing people as they go through Jewel, we gotta do everything we can to not rely solely on property taxes,” he said. With Conti and Corsini leaving the board, Gibbs called himself the “tribal elder,” noting that he holds the most institutional knowledge of all the trustees. He said he’s going to wait to campaign because he feels the election cycle is too long for a small town where “everybody knows everybody.” “In the past, I’ve been criticized for being happy with the status quo because River Forest has the reputation of being stodgy compared to our more liberal neighbor to the east. But I don’t think it’s a bad thing. In the past, River Foresters haven’t worn their politics on their sleeve,” Gibbs said.
Carmela Corsini With her sons graduating college and high school next year, Corsini, a retired assistant
village administrator and finance director, said she will leave the post at the end of her second term in April. “After a lot of soul-searching and just conversations with my family, I think I’m at a good transition point,” she said. Corsini named updating the village’s comprehensive plan as “big,” and also said she was proud of the Safe Routes to school traffic survey the village was completing. She believes her biggest contribution to the board is getting the village’s fiscal house in order — the village’s bond rating recently increased to AAA and its annual budget and audits have won many awards, she said. With the upcoming retirement of Finance Director Joan Rock, Corsini said it would be good if the next trustee had a financial background. “Our finances are strong; we’ve really built up some good reserves, instituted a lot of policies and procedures that have helped us get there,” she said. She said the greatest challenge the village faces is the unreliable state of Illinois finances. “The greatest challenge is always going to be the fact that the state of Illinois is in such terrible financial condition. It really trickles down to municipalities,” Corsini said. “There’s al-
ways unfunded mandates, always legislation they push that is not good for us and, being that we’re non-home rule, a lot of times we don’t have a choice to fight against that.”
Susan Conti After 14 years in the post, Conti, a former trader and current building manager, said she will not seek re-election this April. “It’s been a really fascinating experience. Every year has been different; it’s a great opportunity and a privilege to serve,” Conti said. She named getting the developments at Lake and Lathrop and at Chicago and Harlem off the ground as the greatest challenge the village faces, stressing their importance because they help stabilize the village’s tax base. “It would be nice if the next [trustee] had some good financial expertise. Even though municipal finances are kind of a singular animal, you need to have financial acumen,” Conti said. “And just being able to listen carefully, and get all the information you can before voting or making decisions. It doesn’t take a particular skill set to be a trustee, but there is a learning curve and you have to pay attention, do your homework and have an open mind.” CONTACT: ntepper@wjinc.com
So far, five candidates to vie for 3 open D200 board seats All except one are current officeholders By MICHAEL ROMAIN Staff Reporter
The race for three open seats on the Oak Park and River Forest High School District 200 Board of Education is taking shape, with five candidates confirming to Wednesday Journal that they plan on running. The field includes two incumbents, firstterm board members Sara Spivy and Fred Arkin. Board member Jennifer Cassell, who was elected to the board with Spivy and Arkin back in 2015, confirmed on Tuesday that she will not run for re-election. “Serving the students at OPRF and my community has been an honor,” Cassell said. “It also has come with a number of personal and professional sacrifices. My life has changed since I decided to run for the board four years ago. Most notably, I now have a 3-year-old daughter who needs my time and attention.” In email statements, Spivy and Arkin touted what they considered to be the board’s major accomplishments during the threeand-a-half years they’ve been members. Those accomplishments include hiring the district’s first African-American superintendent, the implementation of
a comprehensive gender equity policy to protect transgender and gender-fluid students, the abatement of $32.5 million in taxes, a balanced budget and enrolling a historic number of students of color in AP classes, among other achievements. “I ran in 2015 to make sure our black students have the same opportunities as our white students,” Spivy said. “I’m a mother of a biracial son and the achievement gap and disproportionate discipline for black students is personal.” Arkin said that despite the board’s accomplishments, “our work is unfinished and we must dedicate ourselves to ensure that these challenges and all other issues facing the board are addressed in the best interests of our students, taxpayers and staff.” Among the three non-incumbents, two are veteran office-holders. Well-known policy analyst Ralph Martire has been on the River Forest School District 90 Board of Education for two terms, during which he’s been board president for at least four years, he said. Vic Guarino, the current board president of the Park District of Oak Park, has been on the Park Board of Commissioners since 2011. His second term on the board expires next year. In phone interviews on Monday, both Martire and Guarino mentioned equity and facilities as major reasons why they decided to run for seats on the high school board.
Currently, the high school district is in the throes of developing a racial equity policy even as OPRF has been wracked with racist and anti-Semitic incidents recently. In addition, the board is on the cusp of finalizing a long-term facilities master plan that, if fully adopted, could cost up to $218 million, according to rough cost estimates. “I think equity, finances and facilities at the high school are major issues that need to be dealt with and I think I have a lot of experience at the park district, and professionally, that I can bring to the board,” said Guarino, who is a project manager at Argonne National Laboratory in Lemont. Martire, the executive director for the Center for Tax and Budget Accountability, a nonprofit research and advocacy think tank based in Chicago, said that he’d like to bring his considerable policy background on local, state and national education issues to the high school board. Martire touted his experience serving on D200’s Culture, Climate and Behavior Committee, his leadership position on the Tri-Board Equity Committee, his role in coauthoring the state’s new evidence-based funding formula and his membership on a federal commission on education and equity during the administration of former president Barack Obama. “I feel that OPRF’s equity efforts over the last 15 to 18 years have had fits and starts,”
Martire said. “There really hasn’t been a strategic, long-term approach to systems change. I feel that that’s what they need and I understand they’ve got challenges from a facilities planning standpoint and I would like to work on those things.” So far, teacher and OPRF alum Gina Harris is the only candidate in the race for the D200 board who is not a current office holder. Harris, who is also a member of D200’s Culture, Climate and Behavior Committee, which is headed by Spivy, said that she was inspired to run while working on the committee. “I was surprised to see many of the same issues surfacing while my daughter was in high school as when I attended 30 years ago,” Harris said in an email statement. “Having many years of experience in management, an MBA, and now 8 years of teaching experience, I know that I have the skills to support the financial decisions we will be making with a focus on equity and unity to ensure that our students have every opportunity to succeed.” Candidates have until Dec. 10 to file petitions to be on the ballot for the April 2, 2019 Consolidated Election. If you’re running for an elementary or high school board seat or if you know anyone else who is running, send a lead to the email below. CONTACT: michael@oakpark.com
Wednesday Journal, November 21, 2018
OAKPARK.COM | RIVERFOREST.COM
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Wednesday Journal, November 21, 2018
OAKPARK.COM | RIVERFOREST.COM
EQUITY
Grassroots equity work topic of SAY Connects event
Timing critical from page 1 The students also urged the board to hire an undocumented student counselor to address the needs of Oak Park’s growing Latinx population and to ensure that all counselors are trained on issues affecting undocumented students. Some community members, such as parents with District 97’s Diversity Council, recommended that all local school boards in Oak Park issue a joint statement denouncing instances of racist and anti-Semitic speech that had made headlines at OPRF throughout early November. The parents also recommended that local schools in Oak Park create safe spaces for students to talk about race and other issues. John Duffy, the chairperson of the Committee for Equity and Excellence in Education, presented board members a document that he said should guide the district’s creation of a racial equity policy. Nathaniel Rouse, OPRF’s principal, announced in September that the administration would start working on a draft equity policy. The document, which was drafted by Duffy’s committee, Suburban Unity Alliance and African American Parents for Purposeful Leadership in Education, draws on Oak Park Elementary Schools District 97’s racial equity policy, along with equity poli-
Photo by Paul Goyette
SOLIDARITY: A room full of community members stand in support of OPRF students at a board meeting on Nov. 15. The students want the district to hire more teachers of color, among other demands. cies from districts around the country in places like Seattle and Portland. The document calls for D200’s racial equity policy to have a “strong rationale and clearly define equity to include a central focus on race as well as other characteristics that drive D200’s inequities, including disability, and different learning needs.” The organizations also recommend that the district adopt a series of tools, such as a racial equity lens and an equity and diversity impact assessment — tools adopted by school districts in other areas of the country — that would guide the district’s deci-
sion-making and help measure its equity commitments. During the Nov. 15 meeting, Pruitt-Adams read off a litany of actions that the district has already taken in the area of equity, including the implementation of a more culturally responsive curriculum and professional training in the area of racial equity, an HR plan to recruit and retain teachers and staff members of color, and tools to analyze the district’s policies, practices and procedures through a racial equity lens, among other actions. For Duffy, the student activists and other community members, however, the changes
Meet six Oak Parkers working hard at the grassroots level to create greater equity in the village. A major theme of “America to Me,” the work of equity is actually happening right now. SAY Connects, a collaboration of Success of All Youth and Wednesday Journal, will host an invigorating community discussion on equity on Wednesday, Nov. 28 in the auditorium of Percy Julian Middle School. The 90-minute event begins at 7 p.m. There is no charge for tickets but you must RSVP at OakPark.com/sayconnects. Doris Davenport will moderate a discussion with representatives of the Collaboration for Early Childhood, the E-Team, Zingela Ulwazi, Echo Theater, Race Conscious Dialogues and SAFE. cannot come swiftly enough. Duffy urged board members to adopt the equity policy with all deliberate speed. “We urge you to move quickly on this, because if it’s adopted in the spring, it won’t be implemented until a year from now, if we’re lucky,” he said.
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Wednesday Journal, November 21, 2018
OAKPARK.COM | RIVERFOREST.COM
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D200 board accepts Imagine master plan Budgeting, timing, prioritizing projects to be discussed on Dec. 11
By MICHAEL ROMAIN Staff Reporter
During the Nov. 15 regular meeting, the District 200 Board of Education unanimously accepted the recommended facilities master plan drafted by Imagine OPRF — the 40-member working group convened more than a year ago on the recommendation of D200 Supt. Joylynn Pruitt-Adams. The group was tasked with conducting rigorous research into the district’s long-term facility needs. According to an FAQ produced by the high school, that included a detailed “investigation of the high school’s facilities, feedback from surveys and focus groups of 1,600-plus students and staff members, four rounds of community engagement and input, tours of peer facilities throughout the Chicago area, and a wealth of additional research.” Pruitt-Adams explained last week that the master plan is not a single construction project “where design and financing of every portion is done at the start.” Instead, she said, the plan “is a living document that should be reviewed and modified every few years as the impact of early projects is assessed, school needs change, and funding becomes available.” The superintendent added that by accepting the plan, the board is “accepting
the identified facility needs and is not locked into a financial commitment. Once accepted, the Facilities Master Plan becomes the board’s. At that point, the Board of Education has the latitude to then decide what portion of the plan to implement and when, along with how to [fund] that portion.” The proposed master plan includes a range of construction projects — from a new library and tutoring center above the South Cafeteria and renovation or construction of 76 classrooms, to a new four-story performing arts and physical education facility and a new student common area — and is divided into five sequences that span up to a decade. The first three sequences, which include classroom renovations, the construction of the new library and tutoring center, and the new four-story physical education and performing arts building, are projected to cost an estimated $145 million. The fourth and fifth sequences, which include the construction of a new Welcome Center and relocating and renovating a range of instructional spaces, among other improvements, are much harder to price, given the fact that they’re so far out, district officials and architects have said. Nonetheless, rough cost estimates have those last two sequences at around $73 million, bringing the total cost of all projects within the master plan to $218 million.
At the Nov. 15 meeting, board members, residents and district officials unanimously praised the Imagine group’s efforts, with Pruitt-Adams recognizing, in particular, the work of Imagine co-chairs Lynn Kamenitsa and Mike Poirier, along with Karin Sullivan, the district’s communications director. “The scope, depth, thoughtfulness and detail with which you looked at every part of this plan is astonishing,” said board member Sara Spivy. “I am truly appreciative of the work Imagine has done,” said board member Tom Cofsky, before comparing the process to the one the district implemented in the run-up to the failed referendum in 2016 that would have helped fund a long-term facilities plan and, perhaps more importantly, replaced the high school’s two dilapidated swimming pools. “This is not a pool plan — this is a facilities plan,” Cofsky said, channeling a widespread sentiment among some community members that the plan the district drafted two years ago was more restricted to replacing the two pools than comprehensive long-term capital needs. “The work done in 2016 pales in comparison to Imagine,” said board member Jennifer Cassell. The board’s high praise of the Imagine plan, however, was tempered by reservations among many members about the plan’s cost and the constricted time frame that the
board has to evaluate the plan and act on the recommendations. Throughout the process of completing the plan, Imagine members insisted that budgetary considerations take a backseat to evaluating the high school’s facility needs. Now that those needs are identified, however, the board must deal with the budget implications. At the meeting, board members seemed dismayed that the two issues, cost implications and capital needs, were contemplated separately to begin with. “With a plan that doesn’t have budgetary requirements, it has budgetary assumptions,” Cofsky said. “I struggle with that.” Pruitt-Adams said that the administration and school board will discuss which construction projects to prioritize, the timing of the construction process, and potential ways to fund the plan at a Committee of the Whole meeting on Dec. 11. “I want to reiterate my appreciation for all the effort,” said board member Matt Baron. “It’s really been tremendous, but I feel that after 15 months of all this work, for us to turn around and make a decision by December is a tall order and uncharted territory by this board, so we will see. I’m eager to get into the trenches. Up until this point, by design, we haven’t talked about it.” CONTACT: michael@oakpark.com
Oak Park spends $54,000 to study police station
Study could lay groundwork for new police station By TIMOTHY INKLEBARGER Staff Reporter
The Oak Park Board of Trustees unanimously approved spending $53,680 on a “space needs assessment” study for the Oak Park Police Department, which since 1975 has been located in the basement of Oak Park Village Hall. Police and village leaders have long lamented the state of the police department, arguing that the facility is not adequate as a modern law enforcement facility. Among the list of complaints: the department has no windows; the practice shooting range is in disrepair and unusable; the evidence room is too small; and the facility leaks. Acting Oak Park Police Chief LaDon Reynolds did not respond to a request for an interview. It has been more than a year since the Oak
Park Board of Trustees has discussed building a new police station, but trustees and village staff acknowledge that the spaceneeds study by FGM Architects Inc. could be the beginning of a move toward building a new station. The budget expenditure originally was placed on the board’s consent agenda, meaning the study would be approved without comment or discussion by the village board. It was removed and placed on the regular agenda by Trustee Simone Boutet. Boutet said in a telephone interview that she believes the study is “step one” in moving toward building a new police station. “I support our police,” she said. “I want them to have a good environment and the tools that they need, but I don’t know if we can afford it right now.” Boutet said that before the village spends money studying the space needs, it should determine if there is money available for a multimillion-dollar project. “You don’t need a study to say that a police station is in the basement of village hall,” she said.
Photo provided by Deno Andrews
I DON’T WANNA GO DOWN TO THE BASEMENT: The Oak Park Police Department is located in the basement of Village Hall. Trustee Dan Moroney has been among the most vocal advocates for building a new station. He acknowledged in a telephone inter-
view, however, that it could be a tough sell for taxpayers. “Probably more than anyone in this village I have new-facility fatigue,” he said, but added that the police department is sorely lacking. “I think that if any Oak Parker were to tour the current police facility, they would agree the current facility is inadequate for the size of our department and the importance of the work they do,” Moroney said. At the board meeting on Nov. 19, he said that extra land to the south of Village Hall could serve as the site for the new station. “I don’t want to spend money on a new facility, and I don’t want to spend money on studies, but [the status quo] is not an option,” he told trustees at the meeting. Oak Park Mayor Anan Abu-Taleb agreed with Moroney that building the station on the village-owned property at 123 Madison St. was a “good option.” “One day we will have a facility that the police department deserves,” Abu-Taleb said. tim@oakpark.com
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Wednesday Journal, November 21, 2018
OAKPARK.COM | RIVERFOREST.COM
WEST COOK YMCA
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Wednesday Journal, November 21, 2018
OAKPARK.COM | RIVERFOREST.COM
KAEGI
Building a team from page 1 ry about this office and it’s almost always bad,” Kaegi said. “In most of the United States no one has any idea who their assessor is.” Kaegi has recently made it a habit of asking people in other parts of the country, and blank stares are usually the response. “There’s really no reason why you should know that. I talked to people who are really high-level real estate investors on the East Coast, and I ask them, ‘Do you know who Carmela Quintos is?’ And I’ve never had a single person say yes to me,” he said. “She is the assessor of New York, and New York’s assessment system works just fine. It’s in the background.” Kaegi is busy building his team now — one that has to be lean and mean — and Kaegi said he’s looking nationwide and locally. Moving away from hiring political insiders is his goal. The assessor’s office is among the smallest in the country in terms of employees and properties in the system. Kaegi said the office is “dramatically understaffed” with about 280 people to handle about 1.8 million parcels. That’s compared to Los Angeles, for instance, which assesses the value of about 2.4 million properties with a staff of some 1,400 people. Harris County, which covers the city of Houston is the next largest jurisdiction from Cook County with a little over 1 million parcels and 600 people to handle the assessments, Kaegi noted. He said the small staff is only one of the problems in the assessment system. The inaccurate assessments, which trigger the costly appeals that Kaegi and others have said benefit wealthy property owners because of their ability to hire appeals lawyers, is also in part due to bad data and an inexplicable methodology for assessing properties. “We think the best bang for the buck is better data and better training, so that’s where our budgetary asks are today,”
Rep. Welch at Nov. 17 press conference blasts proposal to arm teachers
he said, acknowledging the “financial straits” the county faces. “So when we’re making budgetary asks to folks at the Cook County budget office and the board, it’s really around data and investing in skills, in staff. That will make the biggest difference because that doesn’t entail any additional operating costs but really makes us more effective in future with every dollar we put in.” Kaegi believes the recent round of assessments under Berrios’ watch — conducted in conjunction with county contractor Tyler Technologies and Civic Consulting Alliance — was an improvement for residential properties, at least, over prior assessments, but he is still working to build a better mousetrap. On the campaign trail, Kaegi argued for adopting a methodology touted by the MacArthur Foundation, but he says the future assessment methodology will come from a variety of sources. It will be transparent and easy to replicate and verify. Kaegi plans to show his work. “First of all, we have to invest in better data about homes and about the commercial properties because no amount of good modeling will help us if we have terrible data about the underlying properties,” he said. He also aims to focus on bringing equity and transparency to commercial properties. Although the accuracy of residential property assessments improved in the latest round, the same problems remained with assessments of commercial properties. “Statistically, this is the worst performing commercial assessment jurisdiction in the United States among large counties,” he said. What does this all mean for Oak Parkers and others in the western suburbs? “With higher-level homeowners, the thing they don’t like, we think, is all the hidden costs that come with appealing,” Kaegi said. “You have to pay a commission to someone if they’re doing your appeal. That’s money out of your pocket, and people want to feel better that this number is coming out right the first time, being done transparently and fairly and equally with everybody and no one’s getting special deals or favors, so that’s what we’re committed to.” He said people in Oak Park also know that eventually, if there’s a dramatic underassessment of downtown commer-
Fritz Kaegi cial properties and that changes, then they will benefit. “Even the people who are doing appeals don’t feel good about it. It makes them feel like why couldn’t this number have been good the first time?” Kaegi said his approach is to fix problems on the front end, so appeals are no longer needed. tim@oakpark.com
‘Books in schools not bullets!’
By MICHAEL ROMAIN Staff Reporter
On Saturday, state Rep. Emanuel “Chris” Welch (7th), whose district includes parts of River Forest, convened a press conference in Chicago to protest a resolution that could have empowered local school boards to allow teachers and administrators to carry guns in school. The proposed resolution, which was introduced by the Illinois Association of School Boards (IASB) and other education leadership organizations in Chicago, failed during a vote at the IASB’s meeting held later that day. Forest Park District 91 Superintendent said he does not believe arming school per-
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sonnel is a solution to stopping gun violence. minutes,” Dan Walther, a school board mem“If we truly want to prevent gun violence ber in Peoria who supports the proposal, told WGN 9. “I mean, there’s no in our schools, and in our nation, way a resource officer could get then we need to address the root there. So what we’re trying to causes of violence, mental health do is give these small rural discare, social and emotional comtricts the option of doing this. petence, and common sense gun laws,” Cavallo wrote in an email. Nobody is forced to do this.” “More guns is not a solution to According to the proposed less gun violence.” resolution, local school boards Welch was joined by more than would have the option of devela dozen activists and elected offioping school safety and proteccials, including U.S. Congressman tion plans that “may include Mike Quigley (5th) and members administrators, faculty and/or CHRIS WELCH of Moms Demand Action, the orother staff,” who have all of the State representative ganization focused on gun control, qualifications and prerequioutside of the Hyatt Regency Hosites for carrying firearms, to tel in downtown Chicago, where the IASB do so on school grounds. meeting took place. The resolution urges the Illinois General Some supporters of the proposal cited Assembly to support legislation that would slow response times by law enforcement in allow teachers and administrators to be rural school districts. armed. The controversial proposal ultimate“School shootings take an average of 12 ly failed, with IASB members voting 203 to
179, WGN reports. Welch said he wondered if some IASB members in support of the resolution to arm teachers were aware “that what they are contemplating is in violation” of two federal and state laws, including the Gun Free Schools Act of 1990 and Illinois’ Firearm Concealed Carry Act. “This resolution is in complete contradiction to both of those laws,” said Welch, who has drafted a House resolution “supporting schools as gun-free zones and declaring the Legislature opposes arming teachers and administrators,” according to a press release his office put out over the weekend. The Illinois Federation of Teachers also released its own resolution countering the IASB’s proposed resolution. “This group stands together and condemns that resolution,” Welch said Saturday. “We ask them to consider putting books in our schools and not bullets.” CONTACT: michael@oakpark.com
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Wednesday Journal, November 21, 2018
OAKPARK.COM | RIVERFOREST.COM
TIMOTHY INKLEBARGER?Staff
Bling Blowout Oak Park Jewelers, 101 Marion St., is closing up shop after 33 years in business in the village. Coowners Gary Ciccione and Ron Nikel announced they are retiring from the jewelry busines. Items are going for up to 70 percent off.
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Ring in the Holidays with Fun, Festivities and Friends: The Infant Welfare Society’s Holiday Housewalk & Market
he Holiday Housewalk & Market is sure to be a great time, and if any of the following describe you and your friends, you will find plenty of opportunities for festivities throughout the weekend.
Need to tackle that holiday shopping list? The exciting Artisan Holiday Market at the Nineteenth Century Club will offer unique gift options for everyone on your list. With one-of-a-kind clothing, jewelry, food items and gifts, there is something for all ages.
Love architecture and home design? The 4 houses on this year’s walk each offer a glimpse into a magnificent architectural history. From a Renaissance Tudor-style stunner to a Victorian Eclectic beauty, these houses are decked out in their holiday best.
Want to celebrate the holidays in the spirit of the season? Know that all proceeds of the Holiday Housewalk & Market benefit the IWS Children’s Clinic, which offers pediatric, dental and behavioral health services to children in need.
Been meaning to get to the Oak Park River Forest Museum’s new Cicero Firehouse headquarters? Now’s your chance to visit the restored firehouse on Lake Street while taking in a world-renowned holiday decoration collection on exhibit in the Museum.
Want to purchase tickets or pencil in details for the weekend? Visit www.oprfiws.org for everything you need to start your holidays off on a festive note.
Q: How can I kick off the holiday season with lots of fun while remembering the spirit of the holidays and benefitting children in need?
Park River Forest History Museum will be a stop on the walk and includes an exhibit devoted to vintage holiday décor and lighting.
A: Call your friends, buy some tickets and visit the 20th Annual Holiday Housewalk & Market, taking place November 29 through December 1.
Q: What are some interesting ways to socialize with my friends this holiday season?
Q: Where can I get inspired by holiday decorating schemes and also get a sneak peek into some unbelievable local homes? A: The Holiday Housewalk opens up four architecturally-significant private homes, each decorated with a holiday theme sure to get your own creative juices flowing. This year, for the first time, the Oak
A: The IWS Housewalk & Market is offering three special events – one each day of the weekend- to help you have a good time. From Thursday’s Wine & Spirit Tasting, to Not-So-Trivial Pursuit Night on Friday, to the Sip & Shop Champagne Brunch on Saturday, there are plenty of opportunities to gather with friends to support a local charity.
Wednesday Journal, November 21, 2018
OAKPARK.COM | RIVERFOREST.COM
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Swastika scratched on Trinity bathroom stall
A swastika was found scratched on the back of a bathroom stall at Trinity High School on Nov. 13, the fifth such expression of hate that has occurred in Oak Park and River Forest in recent weeks. In a statement, Trinity President Corinne Lally Benedetto said the Nazi symbol has been removed. “Any expression of hate or intolerance is absolutely unacceptable in our Trinity community,” she said. River Forest Police Chief James O’Shea said the police department is prepared to investigate the incident, as well as bring in
outside county, state or federal partners to assist. “At this time, the school wanted to investigate this matter internally, and use it as an educational moment for their institution to teach students about the very offensive symbol, and the intolerance and hatred it represents,” O’Shea wrote in an email. This is the fifth incident of hate speech that has occurred in River Forest and Oak Park recently. On Nov. 9, a student at Oak Park and River Forest High School used Apple’s AirDrop feature to send out the image of a swastika
to the iPhones of other students while in an assembly. The 14-year-old allegedly responsible for sending the offensive message has been charged with distributing an anti-Semitic image and appeared in court on Nov. 14, according to Oak Park police. The week before, officials discovered racist and anti-Semitic graffiti scrawled on bathroom stalls and on a shed near the high school’s tennis courts. Police and District 200 official are currently investigating this incident. OPRF District 200 officials are also deal-
ing with the fallout from an incident involving a teacher accused of saying the n--- word in class last month. Students and parents have complained that the teacher was only given short administrative leave. In late September, Charles R. Duax, 41, of the 300 block of South Maple Avenue in Oak Park, also threatened members of the West Suburban Temple Har Zion. River Forest police charged Duax with disorderly conduct and criminal trespass.
Nona Tepper
C R I M E
Motorist robbed on Austin Boulevard
A Bolingbrook resident was the victim of vehicular invasion in the 300 block of South Austin Boulevard at approximately 9:10 a.m. on Nov. 12. According to police, two men approached the victim’s vehicle from each side. The offender on the driver’s side opened the unlocked car door, struck the victim several times and placed the victim in a hold. The other offender then entered through the passenger side of the vehicle and took the victim’s iPhone 7 and his wallet, which contained credit cards, ID cards and cash. The two offenders then fled on foot. The estimated loss is $870.
Fraudulent notary on the loose An Oak Park business owner in the 800 block of South Oak Park Avenue was the victim of theft, but the offender didn’t seek cash or goods. The thief, who was described as a man in his 30s, simply took a notary public stamp from a vacant desk drawer, according a police summary of the crime. The offender is still at large. How much is a notary stamp worth, you may wonder? About $100, according to police.
Burglary ■ A man posing as an employee of the Village of Oak Park told the victim he was there to “flush out the pipes” and entered the victim’s residence in the 600 block of North Harvey at 3:05 p.m. on Nov. 13. The victim later realized there was cash missing from his wallet. The estimated loss is $70. ■ A residence was burglarized in the 1000 block of South Harvey between 6:30 a.m. and 3:20 p.m. on Nov. 16. The offender entered through an unlocked basement door then ransacked the residence and stole a PlayStation 4 videogame system and two MacBook computers. The estimated loss is $4,000. ■ A residence was burglarized in the 900 block of South Oak Park Avenue between
Jewelry stolen
A Wood Dale resident was the victim of theft in the 1000 block of Madison Street at noon on Sept. 4. The police summary gave few details about the crime other than to note that the thief “removed multiple pieces of a jewelry collection.” The estimated loss is $24,700.
See what all the buzz is about.
Robbery 10 p.m. on Nov. 8 and 10 p.m. on Nov. 11. The offender entered through an unlocked door and stole a black Microsoft Xbox 360 videogame system, 14 Xbox games, an Xbox controller and headphones. The estimated loss is $550. ■ A residence was burglarized in the 1000 block of South Harvey Avenue between noon on Oct. 7 and 2:20 p.m. on Nov. 12. The offender entered through unknown means and stole a stove and refrigerator valued at approximately $3,100.
Vehicle theft ■ A silver 2008 Ford Escape that was left running was stolen from the 600 block of Madison Street at 6:46 p.m. on Nov. 16. The estimated loss is $6,000. ■ A black 2017 Nissan Rogue that was left running was stolen from the 600 block of South Boulevard at 8:40 p.m. on Nov. 16. The vehicle, valued at $30,000, was recovered by the Chicago Police Department on Nov. 18 in the 4600 block of West Huron Street in Chicago. ■ A silver Toyota Sienna that was left unlocked and running was stolen from the 1200 block of Rossell Avenue at 6:32 p.m. on Nov. 18. The vehicle was last seen leaving the scene followed by a small four-door black or dark-blue vehicle.
An Oak Park woman was robbed in the 1200 block of North East Avenue at 10:52 a.m. on Nov. 15. She was approached by a man who forcefully removed her black leather purse and red wallet, which contained various cards, a checkbook, a gold iPhone 8 with a green case and cash. The estimated loss is $820.
Battery A Berwyn man was the victim of battery in the 900 block of Madison Street at 4:15 p.m. on Oct. 31. The offender shoved the victim approximately three times with his hands and attempted to strike the victim with a closed fist. The offender then fled on a blue bicycle. He was described as a black man between the ages of 40 and 50, bald and wearing a red and blue winter jacket, blue jeans and a camouflage backpack. These items, obtained from the Oak Park and River Forest police departments, came from reports, Nov. 12-19, and represent a portion of the incidents to which police responded. Anyone named in these reports has only been charged with a crime and cases have not yet been adjudicated. We report the race of a suspect only when a serious crime has been committed, the suspect is still at large, and police have provided us with a detailed physical description of the suspect as they seek the public’s help in making an arrest.
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Wednesday Journal, November 21, 2018
OAKPARK.COM | RIVERFOREST.COM
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The 14-year-old was in court on Nov. 14 By MICHAEL ROMAIN Staff Reporter
The 14-year-old Oak Park and River Forest High School student who was charged with using Apple’s AirDrop feature to send the image of a swastika to the cellphones of students during a Tradition of Excellence assembly on Nov. 9 was in court on Nov. 14. The student had been charged with dissemination of an obscene message. According to a recent Chicago Sun-Times report, the teenager “arrived at court with his parents and was released back into custody.” But that was before the judge admonished the teen, asking him, “What the hell are you doing in my courtroom?” The judge told the boy’s parents to “set restrictions you deem appropriate” before telling the student to “take care of yourself and don’t be stupid.” The Nov. 9 incident happened after D200 officials discovered racist and anti-Semitic graffiti on campus on Nov. 2 and Nov. 6. CONTACT: michael@oakpark.com
101 S. Marion St. Oak Park, IL 60302 advertise • 708-524-8300 • www.OakPark.cOm
Wednesday Journal, November 21, 2018
OAKPARK.COM | RIVERFOREST.COM
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Wednesday Journal, November 21, 2018
OAKPARK.COM | RIVERFOREST.COM
“Watching Judy perform is like studying a jewel that reveals new facets as it is slowly turned into the light,” says The New York Times
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Photo by David Hammond
An array of delicious snacks, and a jar of pickles, at Mi Boca Dushi in Aruba.
Let us now praise the pickle
I
the fish and bring out the flavor. ’m sitting in Mi Boca Dushi, Ceviche also delivers a good sour a small, mostly take-away smack that wakes up your mouth shop owned by James for the dinner to come, which is Boonchi on the Caribbean why you sometimes see it on the island of Aruba. We’re appetizer menu. eating some of the island’s Fermentation is another traditional foods, not the fancy simple way to make a pickle. To stuff you might find in the make sauerkraut, for instance, many island restaurants that all you need to do is smash cabserve the tourists Maine lobPrice ads bageour leavesHoliday to get the enzymes ster orRegular North Atlantic salmonis a new feature for flowing, add a little water; put it but rather the local foods any this year. Make sure you change your regular price for all in a crock and wait a day or Aruban will immediately reclength your massage session. so for the magic of fermentation ognizethe and perhaps evenof blush to begin (to convert cabbage to a little to say they love. Local Dining sauerkraut takes around three At Mi Boca Dushi, we’re & Food Blogger days, depending upon ambient devouring pastechi, a flakey temperature). pastryOther filled withEditable cheese; meat Text: Fermentation also confers empanadas; arepas, a Latin Sub Head, Location, Date,upon Body Copy, Session pickles some important health American corn cake brimming with grated benefits. Sandor Katz, perhaps the greatest cheese;Length funchi, fried sticks of polenta; and living proponent of fermentation, has said a big beautiful pile of chicharrons, thick that the most profound nutritional benslices of hard-fried pork belly. All delicious, efit of fermented foods is their bacterial but also all very high in fats and carbs. culture: “Antibiotics, cleansing products, Which is why it’s best to eat these foods and chlorine in water are designed to kill with a pickle. bacteria,” and Katz says fermented foods A sprinkling of pickle sauce (center left replace the critical bacteria that improves in the photo above) made a huge difference. 1 HOUR MASSAGE “our digestion, our immune function, and Boonchi told us it’s just vinegar, onions, our mental health.” salt and habanero chilies. This simple Clearly, a fermented pickle is more than pickle relieved the potential heaviness of just a taste-enhancing condiment. the food, lightening each bite and cleansWhether pickled with acidity or through ing the palate between bites, making these fermentation, pickles provide immense Aruban foods taste even better … because benefits, for flavor and for health. And that’s what pickles do. they’re everywhere: I counted approximatePickles come in a lot of forms, some ly 100(!) types of pickles at Pete’s Market on of which do not announce themselves as Forest Park Lake Street. pickles. Sauerkraut is a kind of pickle, as708.406.6474 elementsmassage.com/forest-park So, let us now praise the pickle … and is ceviche. At the Sunset Grill at the Hilton what better day to offer that praise than Aruba, we enjoyed Chef Matt Boland’s exNational Pickle Appreciation Day, Nov. 14, cellent ceviche “shooter” of blanched scalForest Parkof 708.406.6474 when we honor one of our planet’s most lops, shrimp, squid … and a healthy dose elementsmassage.com/forest-park important foods, the pickle. lemon juice. Lemon or other acidic juice, So much more than a condiment. including vinegar, can actually “cook”
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EDUCATION & ENRICHMENT GUIDE Special Advertising Section
November 21, 2018
8 1 0 2 r e t n i W Fall to
SAY Connects presents
After America to Me:
On the ground in Oak Park and River Forest
Our moderator
Doris Davenport
21
Guide
I I t r a P
Discover the people & organizations working to create change in our villages
Christian Harris, founding member, Zingela Ulwazi
Dot Lambshead Roche, founding member, Race Conscious Dialogues
Engages local men of color to help reduce the achievement gap among young men of color through coalition building, promoting a curiosity for learning, academic enrichment, community visibility, and youth mentoring.
The Race Conscious Dialogues engages people who are white in self-examination of identity, power and privilege, and provides tools for effective participation in racial justice efforts.
John Borrero, Executive Director, Collaboration for Early Childhood. Neighborhood Ambassadors Community Ambassadors are part of a parent leadership training that connects the community with early childhood resources.
Frances Kraft, the E-team E-team is a grassroots coalition of families, educators, and community members working together to provide the resources and support our children need to be successful.
Kamau “Maui” Jones, Founder & Artistic Director of Echo Theater Collective Echo Theater Collective (ETC), is an artistic initiative designed to promote unity and cultural understanding in our community using theater and music.
Michela Anderson, S.A.F.E. S.A.F.E. stands for Students Advocating for Equity. This OPRFHS student club aims to create a dialogue between staff and students about school climate where students are comfortable expressing their views about the culture of the school and the community.
Wednesday, Nov. 28 | 7p.m. to 8:30 p.m. Percy Julian Middle School Auditorium | Free admission | RSVP required
RSVP at: www.OakPark.com/sayconnects
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EDUCATION & ENRICHMENT GUIDE
November 21, 2018
Special Advertising Section
Sharks Basketball Academy Will Be Hosting Camps For All Players In Grades K-8 This Winter Break! Join us at the Roos Forest Park Park District (7501 Harrison St, Forest Park, IL 60130)
December 26, 27, 28 and January 2, 3, 4 Baby Shark Intro to Basketball Camp: 8:00a-9:00a (6 sessions) Boys and Girls Grades K-4th $105.00 Fee Each session will be composed of both drill work and individual/team contests. Prior basketball experience is not required.
Boys Only! Sharks Basketball Conditioning Hybrid Bootcamp:
Girls Only! Sharks Basketball Conditioning Hybrid Bootcamp:
9:00a-10:30a (6 sessions) Boys grades 5th-8th $165.00 Fee
10:30a-12:00p (6 sessions) Girls grades 5th-8th $165.00 Fee
Hour 1 of camp will feature an intense strength and conditioning/basketball hybrid bootcamp with Shaped by Sean founder Sean Mallers. Workout will feature 3 difficulty tiers for each player to challenge themselves at their own pace. Workouts will maximize fitness and conditioning specific to basketball.
The remaining 30 minutes of camp will end with our 17 minute signature shooting competition called “King/Queen of the Ocean� in which each player will be competing at their own pace against the clock for a chance to win a new pair of customized Shark Nike Shoes!
Sharks Basketball Academy would like to congratulate 31 of our 31 high school players who made their high school teams Oak Park and River Forest High School (Oak Park): Charlie Hoehne (Varsity) Dan Francis (Varsity) Graham Eldred (Soph) Keaghan Elmiger (Soph) Jake Birmingham (Soph) Diego Garcia (Soph) Roscoe Cadwell (Fresh) Jack Flagg (Fresh) Connor Hoehne (Fresh) Liem Phan (Fresh) Luke Loftus (Fresh)
Fenwick High School (Oak Park): Charlie Westerman (Varsity) Lucas Kolovitz (Varsity) Damian Dalic (Soph) Patrick Kronstein (Soph) Zach Jakaitis (Fresh) Lou Leonardi (Fresh) Peter Forde (Fresh)
York High School (Elmhurst):
ICCP (Elmhurst): Zach Jordan (Varsity) Justin Hall (Varsity)
Whitney Young (Chicago): D.J. Steward (Varsity)
St. Patrick (Chicago): Caleb Corro (Varsity)
Tyler Olsen (Soph) Luc Rosenstein (Soph) Freddy Levins (Soph)
Nazareth Academy (La Grange Park):
Benet Academy (Lisle):
Jack Doss (Varsity)
Kevin Madden (Fresh)
Elmwood Park High School (Elmwood Park):
St. Ignatius High School (Chicago):
Jack Gavin (Varsity)
Guerin Prep High School (River Grove): Jimmy Dohoney (Varsity)
Learn more at sharksbasketballacademy.com or email info@sharksbasketballacademy.com
Ted Schmiedeler (Fresh)
Willowbrook High School (Villa Park): Ryan Pegler (Freshman)
EDUCATION & ENRICHMENT GUIDE Special Advertising Section
Mathnasium Makes Math Fun!
A
t Mathnasium of Oak Park/River Forest, you can feel the buzz of activity and excitement as soon as you walk in the door. Students of all ages from preschool through high school are actively engaged in learning and understanding mathematics.
Whether students are struggling to keep up or excelling in their classes, the proven Mathnasium Method™ can address and advance their knowledge and abilities. Mathnasium OPRF also offers private instruction, test prep, and homework help.
More than any other subject, math has a stigma of being boring and anxiety provoking. At Mathnasium, all the stress is taken out of the process as compassionate instructors work one on one with learners. As owner, Jana Frank explains, “We Make Math Make Sense. Kids don’t hate math, they hate being frustrated and intimidated by it. Our job is to help our students develop number sense so they aren’t just able to do it, but actually understand what they are doing and why. Since we individually assess each student and create a customized learning curriculum for them, we are able to set students up on a path to success.”
This year, Mathnasium started a MiniMathletes program for preschoolers. The one-hour program runs 9 a.m. to 10 a.m. on Saturday mornings. The focus is on building a strong foundation as well as a positive association with math. The next 6 week session starts January 12, and if you’re interested in the program, call Mathnasium to schedule a trial class for free to check it out before December 8.
The staff at Mathnasium works to ensure students are not just learning, but enjoying what they are learning. “Even more important than the math is the attitude and confidence,” says Frank. “We want to make sure every student feels welcome and encouraged to try their best. We will always adjust our teaching methods to find the one that works for each child.” This personalized instruction incorporates best practices through a combination of learning styles including written, mental, verbal, visual, and tactile.
November 21, 2018
23
FREE ACT SUMMER HOMEWORK ENRICHMENT PRACTICE HELP PRE-K – 12THTESTS GRADE SAT, ACT & ISEE TEST PREPPROGRAMS HOMEWORK HELP SUMMER PROGRAMS
PreK-12TH GRADE
We Make Math Make Sense
On the other end of the age range, Mathnasium is also kicking off a new opportunity to prepare for the ACT math college entrance exam. Aimed at high school children and some advanced eighth graders, Mathnasium will now offer a free Math ACT Practice test every other month for the rest of the school year about 4-5 weeks before the actual test date. Students take real ACT math sections under test-like conditions, and their scores are immediately generated. For a list of test dates and to register for these free practice tests, please go to mathnasiumact.youcanbook.me Mathnasium of OPRF is located at 1101 Chicago Ave, in Oak Park. Learn more at mathnasium.com/oakparkriverforest, or call 708.613.4007 to schedule a FREE TRIAL SESSION.
WE ARE EXPERIENCED TRIAL SESSION MATH SPECIALISTS FREEFREE CONSULTATION
Call today to schedule An in-depth look at how the aMathnasium free session WE TEACH ALL LEVELS Method works andyour how we can meet your OF MATH ABILITY for child. family’s needs.
PROVEN RESULTS www.mathnasium.com/ Mathnasium of Oak Park/River Forest oakparkriverforest mathnasium.com/your web address Your Location 1101 Chicago Ave. 123 Any Street Rd. 708.613.4007 800-123-4567 Oak Park, IL 60302 Any Town, ST 90000 mathnasium.com/your web address oakparkriverforest@mathnasium.com
Love, Kindness, Respect
F
n outstanding, affordable Extended Day •A Program open from 7AM to 6PM on school days. •T wo full-day Kindergarten classrooms variety of Extracurricular Programs •A including band, orchestra, and drama club
• Anti-bullying initiative and a “buddy” mentoring program to connect upper and lower grade students • A service-oriented student council We know that parents have many wonderful options when choosing the right school for their children. When you choose Ascension School, be confident that you are providing your children with more than an academic experience, you are giving them the gift of a caring community and the opportunity to learn in an environment that promotes the principles of Love, Kindness and Respect.
60304
T: 708-386-7282
SCHOOL@ASCENSIONOAKPARK.COM
ASCENSION SCHOOL ASCENSION SCHOOL
OPEN HOUSE OPEN HOUSE OPEN HOUSE OPEN HOUSE 601 VAN BUREN STREET
601 VAN BUREN STREET
OAK PARK, IL
OAK PARK, IL
OAK PARK, IL
60304
60304
60304
T: 708-386-7282
T: 708-386-7282
T: 708-386-7282
SCHOOL@ASCENSIONOAKPARK.COM
JANUARY 28TH
601 VAN BUREN STREET
SCHOOL@ASCENSIONOAKPARK.COM
SCHOOL@ASCENSIONOAKPARK.COM
10AM to NOON
JANUARY 28TH
10AM to NOON
60304 T: 708-386-7282 10AM SCHOOL@ASCENSIONOAKPARK.COM JANUARY 28TH to NOON
OAK PARK, IL
OPEN HOUSE JANUARY 28TH
10AM to NOON
PRESCHOOL Ask about our half-day PRESCHOOL & PRESCHOOL full-day classes for JANUARY 28THolds! 10AM to NOON 3 Ask & 4 about year our half-day & full-day classes for PRESCHOOL 3 & 4 year olds! Ask about our half-day & full-day classes for 3 & 4 year olds!
Ask about our half-day & full-day classes for KINDNESS 3 & 4LOVE year LOVE olds! KINDNESS
RESPECT
RESPECT
TOUR THE SCHOOL MEETTHE FACULTY TOUR SCHOOL TOUR THE SCHOOL
TOUR THEVISIT SCHOOL MEET FACULTY OUR CLUBS MEET FACULTY
MEET FACULTY VISIT OUR CLUBS
VISIT OUR CLUBS
TOUR THE SCHOOL
VISIT OUR CLUBS
MEET FACULTY VISIT OUR CLUBS
VANBUREN BUREN STREET STREET OAK PARK, ILIL 60304 601 VAN OAK BUREN STREET OAK PARK,T: IL708-386-728 60304 601601VAN PARK, 60304 PRESCHOOL T: 708-386-7282 SCHOOL@ASCENSIONOAKPARK.COM LOVE
KINDNESS
Ask about our half-day KINDNESS RESPECT full-day classes for
LOVE&
RESPECT
OOL
n excellent Preschool for 3 and 4 year•A olds, with certified teachers and a studentteacher ratio less than 10 to 1
• Tablets available in classrooms to supplement traditional educational materials
OAK PARK, IL
601 VAN BUREN STREET
HOOL
In addition to an excellent elementary school education, Ascension provides:
• Competitive athletic leagues for grades 5-8 in soccer, cross country, basketball and volleyball
601 VAN BUREN STREET
ASCENSION SCHOOL
Ascension School offers a faith-based education for children from three years old through the eighth grade. Our rigorous curriculum prepares students for the next level of education. We continue to provide a strong fine arts curriculum taught by highly qualified full-time teachers. Ascension students consistently score above national norms on standardized tests at all grade levels. In 2007, Ascension received the U.S. Department of Education Blue Ribbon Award.
The opportunity to learn in an environment that promotes the principles of Love, Kindness and Respect.
ASCENSION SCHOOL ASCENSION SCHOOL
ounded in 1912, Ascension School has been providing excellent, Catholic education for families in our community for over a century. With thousands of alumni, many of whom have chosen Ascension for their children’s education, we continue to be a vibrant school, proud of our history, and ready to serve each new child who joins us.
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EDUCATION & ENRICHMENT GUIDE
November 21, 2018
Special Advertising Section
Intellectual, Spiritual, Physical, and Social Development at St. Giles
S
t. Giles School offers academic rigor, leadership development, and faith formation for students in grades preschool through eight. We emphasize intellectual, spiritual, physical, and social development and value our diverse student body, drawing from Oak Park, Galewood, River Forest, Elmwood Park, Berwyn, and more. Our picturesque, multi-building campus features open green spaces and beautiful architecture. Our outdoor classroom provides hands-on learning in science, math, and social justice, and is Wi-Fi enabled to extend learning. We believe in a balanced approach to technology, integrating iPads, Chromebooks, and Smartboards into our curriculum.
EARLY CHILDHOOD SHOWCASE
1101 COLUMBIAN AVE OAK PARK 60302
Our early childhood program boasts dedicated, welcoming preschool teachers and a renovated facility. Our play-based approach helps students explore their creativity, build communication skills, and solve problems in an enriching environment. A variety of full and halfday schedules are available, including before and after care, with an additional preschool classroom to open this fall.
708.383.6279 | stgilesschool.org 708.383.6279 | stgilesschool.org
We take an interdisciplinary approach to learning, augmenting the curriculum
NOVEMBER 28TH 6:30PM
with gym, art, Spanish, music, and a professionally-staffed library. Cocurricular options include band, choir, scouting, and athletics, and enrichment programs offer cooking, engineering, yoga, and more for K-8. St. Giles students consistently score above local and national norms on standardized tests. Our graduates attend the finest high schools in the Chicagoland area and are known for their intellectual preparedness, leadership skills, and commitment to bettering their community. We are proud to highlight our new leadership model, which includes an executive director to oversee budget, facilities, and enrollment, enabling our principal to focus on the key areas of academics, faith, leadership, and community. Our fully-funded scholarship program supports those who need financial assistance to make a St. Giles education reality. Considering a St. Giles education for your child? Join us November 28, 2018, at 6:30 p.m. for our Early Childhood Showcase and January 27, 2019, at 12:30 p.m. for an all-school open house.
—Daniel Herman, former Minister of Culture of the Czech Republic
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The world is a better place because of Shen Yun.” —Richard Swett, former U.S. congressman
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“The HIGHEST and the BEST of what humans can produce.” —Olevia Brown-Klahn, singer and musician
—Broadway World
DEC 27–30, 2018
CHICAGO Civic Opera House
JAN 10–13, 2019
AURORA Paramount Theatre
FEB 14–17, 2019
ROSEMONT Rosemont Theatre
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Civic Opera House tickets only throgh hotline Get best seats & waive fees by Nov. 19
Wednesday Journal, November 21, 2018
25
Homes
NEED TO REACH US?
oakpark.com/real-estate email: buphues@wjinc.com
20 years of housewalks with a heart Infant Welfare Society’s annual walk supports its children’s clinic
By LACEY SIKORA Contributing Reporter
W
he Oak Park River iver Forest Infant Welfare Society is kicking ing off the holiday season all weekend from Nov. 29 through hrough Dec. 1. On top of four local homes decked out in their holiday finest, the walk includes a bonus stop at the Oak Park River Forest History Museum, also decked out in with an exhibit of vintage holiday décor and lights. The Holiday Market held at the Nineteenth Century Club in Oak Park will feature more than 30 artisan vendors and special events to start the season off on a festive note. Event administration chair and IWS member Mary Cate Kuhl notes that the weekend is special for the Infant Welfare Society. “This year is our twentieth annual year of the housewalk,” Kuhl said. “It’s very exciting because
it’s a major anniversary, and we’re versa implementing a lot of implem extra events to make it ev fun for everyone.” ever Kuhl says the Holiday Housewalk and Market are the M major fundraiser for the th IWS, and that all proceeds are used to support the IWS’s Children’s Clinic. “The goal of the Children’s Clinic is to be the safety net for children whose healthcare is not guaranteed,” she said. “The Children’s Clinic offers medical, dental and behavioral care and last year served over 3,500 children from forty-three neighboring communities at over 10,500 appointments.” While aiming to create a healthcare home for children in need at the Children’s Clinic, the IWS See HOLIDAY HOUSEWALK on page 28
Photos courtesy of Oak Park River Forest Infant Welfare Society
HOLIDAY SPIRIT: Like the homes on last year’s housewalk (above), the 2018 Infant Welfare Society Holiday Housewalk will feature spectacular homes decked out in their holiday finest.
26
Wednesday Journal, November 21, 2018
OAKPARK.COM | RIVERFOREST.COM
In The Village, Realtors®
189 S. Oak Park Ave., Oak Park, IL 60302 (708) 386-1400 HomesintheVillage.com
Featured Listings for This Week
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Morgan Digre
Ed Goodwin
Joe Langley
Jane McClelland
Best wishes for a warm and wonderful Thanksgiving!!
Linda Rooney
Kyra Pych
Keri Meacham
Mary Murphy
Steve Nasralla
Elissa Palermo
Wednesday Journal, November 21, 2018
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Generations of Excellence since 1958 708.771.8040 • 7375 W. North Ave., River Forest 7375 West North Avenue River Forest, Illinois 60305 708.771.8040
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Alisa Coghill Nick Bolognia Dan Bogojevich
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Anne Brennan
Carol Brown
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Joe Cibula
Don Citrano
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Yvonne Fiszer-Steele
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Greg Jaroszewski
Vee Jaroszewski
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Rosa Pitassi
Susan Ponzio-Pappas
Tom Poulos Broker Owner
Kevin Calkins
Tom Carraher
Pat Cesario
Kay Costello
Jolyn Crawford
Maria Cullerton
Ramona Fox
Laura Gancer
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Sherree Krisco
Jack Lattner
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Iris McCormick
Vince McFadden
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Elizabeth Moroney
Mike Roche
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George & Nancy Wohlford
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May the Good Things in Life Be Yours in Abundance this Thanksgiving and throughout the Year!
Our Roots are Here.
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HOLIDAY HOUSEWALK Key fundraiser from page 25 also strives to make the clinic a happy place to be. To that end, Kuhl says the clinic has recently implemented new programming, including pet therapy and a giving library, which means that every child who visits the clinic leaves with a book. Fundraising is the key to offering these services. “These two programs, as well as our behavioral care are not subsidized by the government,” Kuhl said. “We rely solely on fundraising to pay for this.” At the end of the day, Kuhl says the Holi-
Photos courtesy of Oak Park River Forest Infant Welfare Society
DONE UP: The Holiday Housewalk will feature four homes that will be lavishly decorated, in addition to the Oak Park River Forest History Museum, which will display vintage Christmas decorations from the collection of Jerry Ehrenberger. day Housewalk and Market are about having a good time while giving back to those in need. “This event is so fun, and we are so grateful to members of our community who open their doors to make this happen,” she said. “It’s all in the name of benefitting children, and people really get a lot out of that.”
Five Holiday Housewalk stops Housewalk Chair Stephanie Stewart says that in honor of the walk’s 20th anniversary, they decided to veer off past practice and include a non-residence on the walk this year: the Oak Park River Forest History Museum. “This is our 20th anniversary and the 50th anniversary of the historical society and the 120th anniversary of the museum building, the Cicero Fire house,” Stewart said. The museum will fit into the housewalk’s holiday theme, with a display from Jerry Ehrenberger, who Stewart calls a world-renowned Christmas collector. The homes on the walk will include one home in Oak Park and three homes in River Forest, each decorated with a special holiday theme. In Oak Park, a 1906 Prairie-style stunner will be decorated in the theme of “Seasons Greenings,” with abundance of decorations from nature. The dining room will feature
an elaborate table setting for Christmas brunch, and a Dickensian Christmas village will brighten up the butler’s pantry. A 1928 Renaissance Tudor-style home in River Forest is decorated in an “Antique Christmas” theme. Stewart says the home is See HOLIDAY HOUSEWALK on page 30
Wednesday Journal, November 21, 2018
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be thankful for the ones you love. HAPPY THANKSGIVING
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Home for the Holidays
Photos courtesy of Oak Park River Forest Infant Welfare Society
2017 Holiday Market LUXURY
510 KEYSTONE, RIVER FOREST :: $1,395,000 :: 7+ BED :: 7.5 BATH Gourmet kitchen opens to family room. Attached 3 car garage. Walk to train.
KATHY & TONY IWERSEN 708.772.8040 708.772.8041 tonyiwersen@atproperties.com
Road Trip on the Horizon? Let us know we’ll hold your paper!
Email: circulation@oakpark.com
Holiday Housewalk and Market event details The Holiday Housewalk and Market takes place the weekend of Nov. 29 through Dec. 1. Special events take place at Oak Park’s Nineteenth Century Club, 178 Forest Ave. in Oak Park. The opening night Holiday Spirit and Wine Tasting is on Thursday, Nov. 29 from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. Tickets are $40 for the tasting and $15 for the opening night party without the tasting. Not-so-Trivial Pursuit Night runs from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. on Friday, Nov. 30, and tables cost $250 per team, with a 10-person maximum per table. The Sip & Shop Champagne Brunch is on Saturday, Dec. 1 from 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. and costs $25.
The Holiday Housewalk is open Friday, Nov. 30 from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. and Saturday, Dec. 1 from noon to 5 p.m. The Artisan Holiday Market is held at the Nineteenth Century Club and is open Nov. 30 from 4 to 9 p.m. and on Dec. 1 from 11 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Advanced tickets to the walk and market can be purchased at the Careful Peach, 1024 North Boulevard in Oak Park; Geppetto’s Toy Box, 730 Lake St. in Oak Park; or online at www.oprfiws.org. Tickets to the housewalk and market cost $45 for regular admission and $35 for seniors aged 65 and older. Tickets purchased at the door will cost $50 ($40 for seniors). Entrance to the market only is free.
HOLIDAY HOUSEWALK from page 28 filled with beautiful 18th and 19th century antiques, including an 1820s ladies’ card table built in the Jane Austen era. Every room will sport a decorated tree. A “Traditional Meets Modern” theme will bedeck an Edward M. Probst-designed home in River Forest. The home boasts 60 original windows bearing Probst’s images of prairie fruit and plants. Pine cones and greenery from the yard will be brought inside to decorate the home, and the dining room tree will feature birds and nature motifs. A Victorian Eclectic-style home will sport a “Merriment and Music” theme. Stewart notes that the homeowners love music, and their many musical instruments will become a part of the holiday decorating. The music room, which houses two pianos, will be decorated with a miniature Christmas village created by the homeowner’s mother. Stewart says that the walk is a seasonal favorite for many. “It’s such a fun event to start the season
PROVIDED
off, and most importantly, everyone who participates in the walk and market is giving to the health care and mental and dental care of children in need,” Steward said.
Wednesday Journal, November 21, 2018
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LEAD . LEARN . PROMOTE
(Listed from left to right) Liz Holt, Executive Director; Mike Lavery, Vice President; Bob Stelletello, Board President; Karen Mullarkey-Kerrins, Board Member; Amanda H. Young, Board Member; Lynn Palmgren, Board Member.
Our BOARD members want to THANK the amazing OPRF BUSINESS COMMUNITY for all your Chamber support.
Happy Thanksgiving! Get to know us at oprfchamber.org
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2018
The best where-to-shop, what-to-buy local guide this side of the North Pole! Reach 15,000 homes in Oak Park, River Forest, Forest Park, Riverside, North Riverside & Brookfield.
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Sunday, November 26, 2018
Have a Safe and Happy Thanksgiving!
SINGLE FAMILY HOMES
ADDRESS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . REALTY CO. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .LISTING PRICE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . TIME 713 S. East Ave, Oak Park . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices KoenigRubloff Realty Group . . . . . . . .$450,000 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12-2 1100 N. Oak Park Ave, Oak Park. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices KoenigRubloff Realty Group . . . . . . . .$459,000 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12-2 1217 N. Marion St, Oak Park. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Gagliardo Realty Associates . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $485,000 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-3 735 Belleforte Ave, Oak Park. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices KoenigRubloff Realty Group. . . . . . . . . $487,000 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-4 1136 Gunderson Ave, Oak Park. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices KoenigRubloff Realty Group . . . . . . . .$563,000 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-3
TOWN HOMES
1206 Lathrop Ave, River Forest. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Gagliardo Realty Associates . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $795,000 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-3
ADDRESS
REALTY CO.
LISTING PRICE
TIME
15 Forest Ave. UNIT 19, River Forest . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . @properties . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $554,000 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Sat. 11-1
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Wednesday Journal, November 21, 2018
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SAY Connects presents
After America to Me:
On the ground in Oak Park and River Forest Discover the people & organizations working to create change in our villages
Christian Harris, founding member, Zingela Ulwazi Engages local men of color to help reduce the achievement gap among young men of color through coalition building, promoting a curiosity for learning, academic enrichment, community visibility, and youth mentoring.
Dot Lambshead Roche, founding member, Race Conscious Dialogues
John Borrero, Executive Director, Collaboration for Early Childhood.
The Race Conscious Dialogues engages people who are white in self-examination of identity, power and privilege, and provides tools for effective participation in racial justice efforts.
Neighborhood Ambassadors Community Ambassadors are part of a parent leadership training that connects the community with early childhood resources.
Frances Kraft, the E-team E-team is a grassroots coalition of families, educators, and community members working together to provide the resources and support our children need to be successful.
Kamau “Maui” Jones, Founder & Artistic Director of Echo Theater Collective Echo Theater Collective (ETC), is an artistic initiative designed to promote unity and cultural understanding in our community using theater and music.
Michela Anderson, S.A.F.E. (Students Advocating for Equity) OPRFHS student club aims to create a dialogue between staff and students, where students are comfortable expressing their views about the culture of the school and the community.
Wednesday, Nov. 28 | 7p.m. to 8:30 p.m. Percy Julian Middle School Auditorium Free admission | RSVP required
RSVP at: www.OakPark.com/sayconnects
Our moderator
Doris Davenport
Have a question for our panelists? Email: say@oakpark.com
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Wednesday Journal, November 21, 2018
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OUT ABOUT Community Leadership Program (now known as the Leadership Lab) alumnae supported fellow CLP graduate Edward Redd at the gala. Left to right: Kristina Skare, Cristy Harris, Andrea Leinweber, Dawn Ferencak, Jessica Mackinnon, Carol Seley, Sarah Abboreno Corbin.
YEMBA Celebrates 10 Years
Y
EMBA (Youth Educational Mentorship Basketball Association) celebrated its 10th anniversary with a gala dinner on November 7 at the 19th Century Club. Founded by Edward Redd, YEMBA provides after-school tutoring, mentoring, life skills and recreation for at-risk students at Brooks and Julian middle schools in Oak Park. Graduates of the program are given opportunities to mentor younger students. During the program, YEMBA honored Timothy Wilson with its Legacy Donor Award and the Community Mental Health Board of Oak Park Township with the Community Partner Award. The event raised $40,000 for the organization.
Oak Park Village Clerk Vicki Scaman, gala committee member, helped sell a Bulls jersey signed by Zach LaVine. With Vicki’s help, the jersey sold for $300.
Jennifer Quinlan, gala committee member, Robert Quinlan and Sarah Abboreno Corbin
Boys who have been impacted by YEMBA and served as ambassadors during the gala event. AJ Aquino, Noa Lloyd, Mekhi Lloyd and Jonathan Harris.
Edward Redd, Timothy Wilson (Legacy Donor) and Mekhi Lloyd, YEMBA participant
all photos courtesy of Melissa Tassone Photography
YEMBA participant Ozell Seaton, Jr. with his parents Ozell, Sr. and Akeisha.
Vanessa Matheny, Edward Redd, Lisa DeVivo. Vanessa and Lisa are from the Community Mental Health Board of Oak Park Township—Lisa is the executive director
YEMBA participant Dylan Willis-Frank and his family. Dustin Frank, Torshia Frank, Stephanie Frank and Dylan.
Wednesday Journal, November 21, 2018
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D O N ’ T M I S S O U R B L A C K F R I D AY S A L E S E V E N T | O P E N 8 A M – 8 P M
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Located at I-290 & Harlem in Oak Park (708) 848-8500 Visit us online at volvooakpark.com Look for the tower!
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RELIGION GUIDE Presbyterian
Check First.
First Congregational Church of Maywood
400 N. Fifth Avenue (1 block north of Lake St.) Come join us for Sunday Morning Worship at 11 am Pastor Elliot Wimbush will be preaching the message. Refreshments and fellowship follow the service. 708-344-6150 firstchurchofmaywood.org When you're looking for a place to worship the Lord, Check First.
You’re Invited to A Church for All Nations A Church Without Walls SERVICE LOCATION Forest Park Plaza 7600 W. Roosevelt Road Forest Park, IL 60130
William S. Winston Pastor
ELCA, Lutheran
Good Shepherd
Worshiping at 820 Ontario, Oak Park IL (First Baptist Church) 9:00 a.m.—Education Hour 10:30 a.m.—Worship
All are welcome. goodshepherdlc.org 708-848-4741
Lutheran—ELCA
United Lutheran Church
409 Greenfield Street (at Ridgeland Avenue) Oak Park Holy Communion with nursery care and children’s chapel each Sunday at 9:30 a.m.
Sunday Service 7AM, 9AM & 11:15AM Believer’s Walk of Faith Broadcast Schedule (Times in Central Standard Time) Television DAYSTAR (M-F)
3:30-4:00pm
Nationwide
WJYS-TV (M-F)
6:30-7:00am
Chicago, IL.
WCIU-TV (Sun.)
10:30-11:00am
Chicago, IL.
Word Network
10:30-11:00am
Nationwide
(M-F)
www.livingwd.org www.billwinston.org
West Suburban Temple Har Zion
1040 N. Harlem Avenue River Forest Meet our Rabbi, Adir Glick Pray, learn, and celebrate with our caring, progressive, egalitarian community. Interfaith families are welcome. Accredited Early Childhood Program Religious School for K thru 12 Daily Morning Minyan Weekly Shabbat Services Friday 6:30pm & Saturday 10:00am Affiliated with United Synagogue of Conservative Judaism 708.366.9000 www.wsthz.org
PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH
744 Fair Oaks Ave. Oak Park 386-4920 Sunday Schedule Christian Education for All Ages 9:00am Worship Service 10:00am
Child care available 9-11am
fairoakspres.org OAK PARK MEETING OF FRIENDS (Quakers) Meeting For Worship Sundays at 10:00 a.m. at Oak Park Art League 720 Chicago Ave., Oak Park Please call 708-445-8201 www.oakparkfriends.org
Roman Catholic
Ascension Catholic Church
www.unitedlutheranchurch.org
708/386-1576
(708) 697-5000 LIVE Webcast - 11:15AM Service
Fair Oaks
Lutheran-Independent
Grace Lutheran Church
7300 W. Division, River Forest David R. Lyle, Senior Pastor David W. Wegner, Assoc. Pastor Lauren Dow Wegner, Assoc. Pastor Sunday Worship, 8:30 & 11:00 a.m. Sunday School/Adult Ed. 9:45 a.m. Childcare Available
Grace Lutheran School
Preschool - 8th Grade Bill Koehne, Principal 366-6900, graceriverforest.org Lutheran-Missouri Synod
St. John Evangelical Lutheran Church
305 Circle Ave, Forest Park Sunday Worship, 9:30am Christian Education Hour 8:30am Wednesday Worship 7:00pm Wheelchair Access to Sanctuary Leonard Payton, Pastor Roney Riley, Assistant Pastor 708-366-3226 www.stjohnforestpark.org Methodist
First United Methodist Church of Oak Park
324 N. Oak Park Avenue 708-383-4983 www.firstUMCoakpark.org Sunday School for all Ages, 9am Sunday Worship, 10am Children’s Chapel during Worship Rev. Katherine Thomas Paisley, Pastor Professionally Staffed Nursery Fellowship Time after Worship
808 S. East Ave. 708/848-2703 www.ascensionoakpark.com Worship: Saturday Mass 5:00 pm Sunday Masses 7:30, 9:00, 11 am, 5:00 pm Sacrament of Reconciliation 4 pm Saturday Taize Prayer 7:30 pm First Fridays Feb.– Dec. & Jan. 1
Rev. James Hurlbert, Pastor
Roman Catholic
St. Edmund Catholic Church
188 South Oak Park Ave. Saturday Mass: 5:30 p.m. Sunday Masses: 9:00 & 11:00 a.m., 5:30 p.m. Weekday Mass: 8:30 a.m. M–F Holy Day Masses: As Announced Reconciliation: Saturday 4:15 p.m. Parish Office: 708-848-4417 Religious Ed Phone: 708-848-7220
St. Giles Family Mass Community
We welcome all to attend Sunday Mass at 10 a.m. on the St. Giles Parish campus on the second floor of the school gym, the southernmost building in the school complex at 1034 North Linden Avenue. Established in 1970, we are a laybased community within St. Giles Roman Catholic Parish. Our Mass is family-friendly. We encourage liturgically active toddlers. Children from 3 to 13 and young adults play meaningful parts in each Sunday liturgy. Together with the parish, we offer Catechesis of the Good Shepherd, a Montessori-based religious education program for children in grades K-8. For more information, go to http://www.stgilesparish.org/ family-mass-community or call Bob Wielgos at 708-288-2196.
Third Unitarian Church 10AM Sunday Forum 11AM Service Rev. Colleen Vahey thirdunitarianchurch.org (773) 626-9385 301 N. Mayfield, Chicago Committed to justice, not to a creed
Roman Catholic
St. Bernardine Catholic Church Harrison & Elgin, Forest Park
CELEBRATING OUR 107TH YEAR! Sat. Masses: 8:30am & 5:00pm SUNDAY MASSES: 8:00am & 10:30am 10:30 Mass-Daycare for all ages CCD Sun. 9am-10:15am Reconciliation: Sat. 9am & 4pm Weekday Masses: Monday–Friday 6:30am Church Office: 708-366-0839 CCD: 708-366-3553 www.stbern.com Pastor: Fr. Stanislaw Kuca
Upcoming Religious Holidays
Nov 21 Mawlid an Nabi * Islam 22 Thanksgiving USA Interfaith 23 Guru Nanak Dev Sahib birthday Sikh 25 Christ the King Christian 26 Day of the Covenant Baha’i
Happy Thanksgiving!
DEADLINE FOR SUBMISSIONS IS FRIDAY 5 P.M.
Email Viewpoints editor Ken Trainor, ktrainor@wjinc.com
A G I N G
Wednesday Journal, November 21, 2018
VIEWPOINTS
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Whatever became of Eddie Vollman? DOOPer’s Memories, p. 45
D I S G R A C E F U L L Y
Giving thanks for musical moments
A
bout three years ago I was diagnosed with an illness that causes severe fatigue. Around the same time Donald Trump announced his campaign for President. One attack on the body and one on the spirit. Around the time the jaw-dropping Republican debates started (look at that face, low energy Jeb, bleeding from wherever), I turned off the TV early each evening and went to bed with a good book and WFMT’s classical music. I often leave WFMT on all night; music is very comforting during the odd toss-and-turn-all-night. And I’ve read a ton of books — lots of history in my old age as I try to piece together the truth about my country, good and bad. Not to spoil Thanksgiving and all the Indian/Pilgrim cutouts, but did you know that Andrew Jackson ordered troops to burn Native Americans alive? I love classical music, with the exception of long operas. I don’t get rap and hip-hop, although I understand their cultural importance. I asked some friends to pick a few pieces of their favorite music — stuff they could listen to over and over if they were, say, in a gulag or stranded on a deserted island. People in my age group, myself included, are crazy about Frank Sinatra, Tony Bennett and Luciano Pavarotti (two of us love La Boheme), and shared my love of Willie Nelson (any man who has a daughter should listen to Willie Nelson’s Scarlet Ribbons with at least one hanky in hand). We like our old musicals, especially with Fred Astaire both dancing and singing, and the big bands — can anything beat Benny Goodman’s “Sing, Sing, Sing”? We like Patsy Cline and James Taylor and Leonard Cohen. And the coolest person — when cool was really cool — says she can listen over and over to an album by John Coltrane and Johnny Hartman, recorded in 1963. Drop down a decade or so to friends who were teenagers when the Beatles crashed the party. One remembers: “I was 16 years old when the Beatles came to New York in the early ’60s. My father bought me my first 33 record of their songs. We were in heaven in Connecticut as we listened to their music on a New York radio station (with Murray the K), watched them on Ed Sullivan and wore the record down playing it over and over again.” And then came Aretha Franklin and Paul Simon. One of my friends put her favorites in images: “Aretha’s voice is so powerful, she could inspire me to build a yacht out of coconut shells and get off the island. Paul Simon’s Graceland takes my mind to places around the world. It always sounds fresh and new, even though I have listened to it dozens of times. At the end of the movie, St. Vincent, Bill Murray sings out loud while listening to Bob Dylan’s ‘Shelter from the Storm.’ It’s a great visual memory that I would enjoy over and over again.”
MARY KAY O’GRADY
See O’GRADY on page 44
The love of thousands The following is an excerpted version of a sermon delivered last Sunday by Rev. Emily Gage at Unity Temple:
I
think about when they were younger and who they celebrated with, you can keep going back in time. When I was younger, I celebrated Thanksgiving with my grandma, and there was a time when probably she celebrated Thanksgiving with her grandmother in Maryland, the one who was probably Jewish and was an immigrant from Germany. I don’t know what that great-great-grandmother celebrated, but she celebrated with someone, and they did before that, going all the way back in time. And here’s the thing — all those people are part of who you are today. That great-great-grandmother loved my grandmother, and she loved me and that is part of who I am. And now part of who my son is. We are the result of the love of thousands. We are also the result not just of love, but of people’s actions, and events, and places. My favorite story about Thanksgiving is about Sarah Hale, the woman who pretty much single-handedly ensured that Thanksgiving became a national holiday. Laurie Halse Anderson writes about this in her awesome book, Thank you, Sarah! Sarah got this idea that all of us in this country should take one day to give thanks at the same time. So she wrote letters to make it happen. It sounds like something easy, but it turns out it took her “38 years, thousands of letters, and countless bottles of ink” until President Lincoln finally said yes. Thirty-eight years. When I think of how much work there is to do to make the world a better place, I take Sarah as inspiration. If she kept at it that long, I know that each one of us can make a difference in this world.
EMILY GAGE
’m lucky enough to have had a lot of Thanksgiving celebrations in my lifetime. One memorable year when I was already a minister, so more or less a grown up, I flew to my dad and stepmom’s house. My dad had just had a serious accident falling out of a tree stand. He was delivered home from the hospital after I arrived into a hospital bed from which he could not get up. He was always head chef for Thanksgiving, but that year he directed the cooking and baking from the room next to the kitchen. I made an excellent, very elaborate cranberry relish that I never would have attempted otherwise. I have been thinking about all the Thanksgivings past. Most of these happened some time ago, and will never happen again in the same way, for all sorts of reasons. Some of those whom I loved have died, and others have been born. People have been married or divorced or moved or any number of things. And still, even though those Thanksgivings will never happen again in the same way, they still are with me. Memory can be like that — it can stay with you and be part of you forever. On my way to exploring memory, I was also reminded of this quote from Linda Hogan: “Suddenly, all my ancestors are behind me. ‘Be still’ they say. “Watch and listen. You are the result of the love of thousands.’” Each one of us is here today because of all of those who have come before. If you think back on the Thanksgivings you may have celebrated and about those people who have been part of that, and maybe
One View
See GAGE on page 44
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O U R
V I E W S
Six editorials in one
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e know you’re late getting the turkey in the oven. So here are six bite-sized editorials: No new police station: Monday night the Oak Park Village Board OK’d $53,000 for a consultant to do a space study of the Oak Park Police Department HQ. Here’s our short version of what the final report should say: There is plenty of space. Needs some upgrades. This place has no damned windows. It is depressing. Oh, 45 years ago the village government put the cops in the basement of village hall. On purpose. Bad decision. Too bad. Then the elected leaders should say: How about we move a few police functions above ground within village hall? The first mayor or trustee who suggests building a new police station for $12 million has to pay for it personally. Messages of hope: An ad hoc group of students at OPRF, supported by staff member Shoneice Reynolds, spent last week placing Post-It Notes with affirming messages on lockers across the building. It has been a discouraging couple of weeks at OPRF, and across our villages, with multiple incidents of hate speech, both racist and anti-Semitic. The simple project with simple truths, such as “Love always wins,” and “You’re awesome,” won the week. Thank you to these students. We needed this. Go get ’em Fritz: Oak Parker Fritz Kaegi is the new Cook County Assessor. Takes office in early December. What a job he has ahead of him in upturning a property tax assessment system virtually everyone agrees is actively unfair to lower-income county taxpayers while also having been actively corrupted by those with resources to work this fixed system. Kaegi is not a politician but he has won a political job. Its current occupant, Joe Berrios, was simultaneously assessor and chief of Cook County Democrats. Extricating this office from those politics won’t be simple. Remaking personnel in a politically charged assessor’s office while undertaking a complex overhaul of all the assessment software and algorithms will not be welcomed with open arms. Finally, because the size of the property tax pie is fixed, progress in creating fair assessments for the powerless who have been perpetually overtaxed comes only in increasing taxes on powerful property owners, many of them commercial owners, who have gamed the system and been underpaying. There is no win-win here. There is fairness and there is pain. Thanks to Fritz Kaegi for taking on this thankless, vital job. From Service to Civic: River Forest has changed so much over 20 years, so much for the better. Here’s the latest indicator: The 80-yearold River Forest Service Club, an organization that ran the town and maintained its stodgy ways for decades, is officially rebranding. With its role as behind-the-curtain decider long diminished, its membership aging, and a new generation that didn’t even know what it was, its current leaders are turning the page, remaking its mission and giving it the notably less “don’t bother unless you’re invited” name of the River Forest Civic Association. That’s a lot of stories: No secret the Journal has been largely supportive of amping up the density of residential construction along the Metra/Green Line through the Downtown Oak Park area. We see it as positive that private developers see Oak Park as a good investment. We believe high-rises are a good way to grow our population of shoppers and taxpayers. And if taxing bodies aren’t endlessly greedy, we believe the boost to the property tax base can be a way to mitigate further property tax hikes. That said, even we gasped when the latest proposal for a new highrise on Lake Street across from Scoville Park came in at 28 stories. That’s seven more floors than Oak Park’s current tallest building. And the proposed footprint to build on, currently a bank drive through and small parking lot, is not big. We’ll need some convincing on this one. Coalescing on equity: As OPRF works to craft its own equity plan, a trio of admired local activist organizations has already come together to offer a supporting plan. The Committee for Equity and Excellence in Education, APPLE and the Suburban Unity Alliance are in sync on these vital and complex challenges. This bodes well.
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@ @OakParkSports
Reasons to be thankful for ‘America to Me’
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hank you, District 200 school board members, who said Yes to America to Me, the 10-week fall viewing phenomenon on the Starz channel that challenged our myths, liberated us from our illusions, made us squirm, shook up our complacent community self-image, and, we hope, accelerated the process of change in an institution that needs it. Thank you, Oak Park and River Forest High School, for opening yourself up to public scrutiny, even though transparency is always uncomfortable. Thank you for opening yourself up to being misunderstood, and better understood, for being willing to take a hard look at yourself in order to become a better school. Thank you for showing the entire country how gloriously imperfect we are because every human being is imperfect and that makes every institution imperfect, which means we can’t change the institution until we also change ourselves. Thank you for demonstrating that a public airing of our shortcomings and systemic insufficiencies is to be welcomed, not avoided or resisted or denied, because that is the doorway to transformational change. Thank you for proving that the discomfort of challenging ourselves is healthy and puts us ahead of the game, not behind — makes us stronger, not weaker. Thank you for showing us how difficult institutional change can be. Thank you for unveiling the creative chaos that is high school in the second decade of the 21st century. Thank you for showing us how you fail as well as how you succeed, sometimes against the steepest odds. Thank you for showing, especially those of us who are white, the goodness of students of color and their families, for showing us how smart these kids are, even when they perform beneath their considerable potential. Thank you for allowing us to just sit back and really listen to these families — without judgment for a change. Thank you for showing how important the arts and other extracurriculars are to these kids, how they provide a crucial outlet for their brilliance. Thank you for exploding the racist myth that black parents don’t care, for showing how deeply, in fact, they do care and how much effort they put into supporting and trying to motivate their kids. Thank you for showing us how these kids move forward in spite of the school — and how much they progress because of the school. Thank you letting us root for these kids, giving us the chance to feel devastated about their setbacks and thrilled about their surges, kids we suddenly began to care a great deal about, whom many of us normally wouldn’t have given a second’s thought. Thank you for humanizing all the people profiled in this series, which in turn humanized us. Thank you for introducing us to teachers, administrators, board members and staff who have a genuine sense of mission — Jessica Stovall, Paul Noble, Aaron Podolner, Michelle
Bayer, Paul Collins, Mike Powell, Peter Kahn, Chala Holland, Jackie Moore, Dave Bernthal, James Sieck, Tyrone Williams, John Hoerster, Anthony Clark, Melinda Novotny John Condne, and the rest who said Yes to having cameras in their face and space and showed a willingness to go above and beyond the job description — to see more in these kids than they often see in themselves. Thank you to those teachers and administrators who didn’t take part but watched the series and now are beginning to feel a heightened sense of mission, as well as those who didn’t watch but will, with an open mind, and let it move them, which will make them more complete teachers and administrators because you can’t become a more complete educator until you become a more complete human being. Thank you to Jada Buford, KeShawn Kumsa, Charles Donalson Jr., Caroline Robling-Griest, Brendan Barrette, Grant Lee, Kendale McCoy, Terrence Moore, Tiara Oliphant, Chanti Relf, Gabe Townsell, and Diane Barrios-Smith, the students who weren’t afraid to reveal themselves and who were so honest and articulate as they navigated an already difficult stretch of life — on camera. Thank you for helping us better understand all the influences that combine to hold back student progress, and how facing and addressing those influences can help us create a safer, more welcoming and empowering environment. Thank you for helping us see that the answer is not to force students of color to toe the line in a white school system but to reinvent our school system. Because it’s their school too. Thank you for helping us understand that we can’t empower all kids unless whites recognize that the system whites built and that they sustain is disempowering to students of color and needs to change. Thank you for showing how this high school is doing so much, and how far it still has to go, to reach every student, but that it’s doable if we can get all the oarsmen on board and rowing in the same direction. Thank you for helping us understand that, just as the glass is always half empty and half full, so we are all part of the problem and part of the solution. Thank you for showing that if parents and educators can do the incredibly hard work of transforming kids, day in and day out, then we can help with the incredibly hard work of transforming the schools they attend. Thank you to Steve James and his entire crew for creating something honest and troubling and hopeful and inspiring and very close to life itself. Thank you to Reality TV, that most appalling of media phenomena, which nonetheless created the precedent and set the stage for this authentic reality series. Thank you, OPRF — and OP and RF — for being willing to redefine the school’s motto, “Those things that are best,” because the truth is best, and if we aren’t aiming for it, then really, what the hell are we here for? And if not now, when?
KEN
TRAINOR
V I E W P O I N T S S H R U B T O W N
by Marc Stopeck
Wednesday Journal, November 21, 2018
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A better response to hate speech
have been reading the online comments in response to the 14-year-old boy who was identified as the person who posted the swastika at the high school. The majority of those responses are focused on punishment. Their tone is one of anger. His act is releasing its own form of hatred from members of our community, one that seems rooted in righteousness. Growing up in this culture that is so divided and filled with hate and judgment, is it a surprise that a child would reflect what is already prevalent in our society? The Chicago Tribune wrote after the election: “More than 56,000 voters in a Chicago-area congressional district cast votes Tuesday for an avowed Nazi and Holocaust denier. Self-proclaimed Nazi Arthur Jones, running as a Republican, managed more than a quarter of the vote against Democratic Rep. Dan Lipinski in the district that includes parts of Chicago’s South Side and several neighboring suburbs.” This is much more disturbing than what this 14-year-old child did. Instead of punishment and revenge, we should use this moment to teach this young man and those who think as he does. This should be an opportunity for all of us to reflect on the teachings we present to our children each day. This boy’s act has held up a mirror for us to take a good look at ourselves, and reflect on how we teach and live out tolerance and
acceptance of those who are different from us. What are the natural consequences for this boy’s actions that will help him to understand what the hate he celebrated has caused in our world? His “sentence” should be to visit the Holocaust museums in Skokie or Washington, to listen to the recorded histories of survivors, and to sit and talk with any remaining survivors face-to-face to hear their stories firsthand. He should be taken to visit the National Museum of African American History and Culture in Washington and the lynching museum and memorial in Alabama. Our public schools should adopt a curriculum such as, “About Us: Facing History and Ourselves” (https://www.facinghistory.org/about-us), whose mission is to engage students of diverse backgrounds in an examination of racism, prejudice, and anti-Semitism in order to promote the development of a more humane and informed citizenry. These are just a few ideas of how to help a child who is misguided to become a positive contributing member of our society. Let us all be awake to the possibilities of this moment. We are the society that has produced this hatred, and we have to be the ones to change our world into a more peaceful and accepting place for all. Steven Parker is an Oak Park resident.
STEVEN PARKER One View
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About Viewpoints Our mission is to lead educated conversation about the people, government, schools, businesses and culture of Oak Park and River Forest. As we share the consensus of Wednesday Journal’s editorial board on local matters, we hope our voice will help focus your thinking and, when need be, fire you to action. In a healthy conversation about community concerns, your voice is also vital. We welcome your views, on any topic of community interest, as essays and as letters to the editor. Noted here are our stipulations for filing. Please understand our verification process and circumstances that would lead us not to print a letter or essay. We will call to check that what we received with your signature is something you sent. If we can’t make that verification, we will not print what was sent. When, in addition to opinion, a letter or essay includes information presented as fact, we will check the reference. If we cannot confirm a detail, we may not print the letter or essay. If you have questions, email Viewpoints editor Ken Trainor at ktrainor@wjinc.com.
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Email Ken Trainor at ktrainor@wjinc.com or mail to Wednesday Journal, Viewpoints, 141 S. Oak Park Ave., Oak Park, IL 60302
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V I E W P O I N T S
Wednesday Journal, November 21, 2018
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Road diet benefits on Madison will likely be minimal
n the eight years since the road diet for Madison was first proposed, research on road diets has evolved considerably. What was once a “slam dunk” case should now be re-considered. Road diets don’t make roads safer, just less used. Initial research found that accidents dropped on roads put on road diet. This is true, but it is also true that drivers end up seeking to avoid the constricted roadway. When the decline in use is factored in, a large-scale study of road diets found no decrease in accidents/mile, meaning there is no real improvement in safety (Huang et al., 2002, Transportation Research Record). Meanwhile, traffic diverted to side streets may cause new safety problems, with one recent study finding “speeders outside the road diet area rose,
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with the percentage increases being fairly large, in the double digits” (Nixon et al., 2017, Mineta Transportation Institute). Road diets increase biking and they do make streets more pleasant for pedestrians and bikers. But the benefits often aren’t that substantial. For example, one highly-touted project in San Francisco found a 54 percent increase in bike traffic after initiating a road diet. That sounds great, but the reality was that bikers during the a.m. rush hour increased from a mere 37/day to 52/day (Polk Street Road Diet Project, 2001 Report from the San Francisco Department of Parking and Traffic). That’s not a strong benefit. Moreover, Oak Park already has good biking
options just north (Washington) and south (Jackson) of Madison. Do we really need to enhance biking on Madison, perhaps by diverting car traffic onto these good bike routes? Madison may be a bad fit for a road diet. Road diets may have weak benefits, but they’re often advertised as doing no harm. This is because even though they reduce traffic lanes, they provide a turn lane, helping to reduce turnrelated congestion. The problem is that Madison already has turn lanes at all major intersections; there’s not much of an issue with turn-related congestion. It’s unclear, then, how the road diet idea applies to Madison. In fact, according to the village’s presentation, Madison may have too
BOB CALIN JAGEMAN One View
Our times require some soul-searching
he America to Me series has prompted us to think about our own ignorance and unconscious racism. I’m writing in the hope that the recent incident at West Suburban Temple and the hateful graffiti at OPRF High School will motivate similar soulsearching regarding your own ignorance and anti-Semitism/Judaism. Such attitudes do exist here, along with the good intentions that prompted many of you to attend recent synagogue services in much-appreciated solidarity with us. Ignorance and anti-Semitism here? Really? Consider the following examples involving gentile Oak Parkers: ■ Under a different village administration, Jewish employees couldn’t take time off for high holiday services without negative consequences. Important meetings were scheduled during Jewish high holidays as well. (I don’t know if this is still the case.) ■ Every year we receive lots of unthinkingly sent religious Christmas cards. ■ I’ve seen someone shudder in disgust when asked if she were Jewish and someone else make a face and complain that she had to celebrate a Jewish holiday. ■ Out of the blue, a Dooper looked at me and said: “Maybe you’re Jewish and maybe you’re not.” As members of a racist society, we’ve absorbed racist attitudes. Racism is a much more serious problem than anti-Semitism/Judaism in the U.S., but it’s absorbed similarly. Was it part of your religious education? The New Testament and the Koran contain considerable anti-Jewish polemic (though there are also statements of respect for Jews and Judaism in both texts). Is/was anti-Semitism part of your social landscape? For example, did family members belong to private clubs that excluded Jews? Is implied anti-Semitism part of your lib-
eral politics? We rightfully blame Trump for emboldening neo-Nazis to commit acts of violence like the Pittsburgh synagogue massacre. But Jewish-Americans are also being attacked from the left. Legitimate criticism of the Israeli government can all too easily morph into antiSemitism. That is apparently why Charles Daux threatened West Suburban Temple recently. He allegedly ranted about the Israeli-Palestinian conflict before calling temple members murderers and screaming: “Your sons are going to die; I am going to kill your sons.” Has your advocacy on behalf of the Palestinians veered into anti-Semitism, emboldening Mr. Daux and others? Please ask yourself: ■ Do you condemn violent attacks against Palestinian civilians and ignore violent attacks on Israeli civilians? ■ Do you equate Zionism with racism? Zionism is a form of nationalism, supporting the existence of a Jewish state. Jews of all races live in Israel and world-wide. ■ Do you assume the Israeli government speaks for all Jews? Most Jewish-Americans are liberals who favor a two-state solution and oppose oppression of the Palestinian people. ■ Do you tend to see Jews as extremely powerful, wielding outsize influence over world events? Most of us aren’t especially wealthy or powerful. Hard work and education have enabled many of us to succeed, not some nefarious conspiracy. Most wealthy and powerful people are not Jewish.
JUDITH
ALEXANDER One View
Anti-Semitism/Judaism is like a herpes virus, relatively dormant for years before flaring up during periods of stress like this one. You can be part of the solution by confronting it in the world around you and in your own heart. Judith Alexander has lived in Oak Park for decades. She treasures her relationships with both Jews and non-Jews.
much traffic for a road diet. The presentation notes that when a road diet is applied to streets carrying more than 875 vehicles per hour per direction the diet “may induce operational changes and concerns.” By the village’s estimate, however, Madison was already slightly exceeding that level of traffic during rush hour in 2014 (https://www.oakpark.us/sites/default/files/planning-documents/madison/2016-06-13-madison-streetpresentation.pdf). If traffic on Madison has increased since 2014, the road diet plan may no longer be reasonable. As the research on road diets has evolved, so should the village’s plan. Streetscaping and resurfacing would be great, but a road diet may increase congestion without any major safety benefits. Bob Calin-Jageman is an Oak Park resident.
Problems with the Imagine OPRF proposal
We only recently became aware of the Imagine OPRF proposals so we examined the FAKO survey, the presentation to the Imagine Committee by consultant Dr. Grossi, ISBE reports, and high school rankings. We have reservations about Imagine as follows: Priorities – The data indicate that the priority need for OPRF should be the improvement of educational outcomes rather than undertaking extensive construction projects. ■ We were dismayed to learn from the 2016-17 Report Card that 68 percent of OPRF students are academically “proficient,” that 70 percent are “Ready for College Coursework,” that the majority of black, Hispanic, low-income and students with disabilities have SAT scores that “Partially Meet” or are “Approaching” ISBE “Academic Success,” while 72 percent enroll in college. ■ The 2018 report indicates that approximately 75 percent of black students, students with IEPs, and low-income students have SATs within “Partially Meets Standards” or “Approaching Standards.” ■ OPRF is ranked 37th or 40th amongst Illinois high schools. In 2018, US News ranked high schools nationwide and OPRF was not among the top high schools. ■ Building Needs – It is readily apparent that the building, with the exception of the pools, is in functional condition. We agree with the saying “if it is not broken don’t fix it.” ■ Finances – We believe the costs for Imagine, a possible $218M total, is excessive. ■ D200 has $105 million in reserves, which could provide sufficient funds for necessary projects, leave millions to ad-
dress the school’s academic needs and maintain millions in reserve. ■ D200 continues to increase expenditures without Imagine. The ISBE report card shows that instructional spending rose from 2014 to 2016. Community Partners – We feel that D200 has not shared both viewpoints with the community. Two years ago the FAKO survey indicated that the communities did not favor costly construction. Improving educational quality was the main concern (Table 1). 74 percent wanted to “improve classrooms with technology and more efficient design;” 39 percent wanted to “replace the school’s existing pool with a new pool or pools.” (Table 2) However FAKO did indicate community views on proposals under consideration in 2016: 45% favored the $40 million plan for two pools, 37% favored the $54 million plan for a 40 meter pool and new garage, and 27% favored a $68 million plan for a 40 meter pool below the baseball field (graphs 1- 3). Given the lengthy time frame which will disrupt academics and neighbors, and tremendous cost of Imagine, it is fair to ask that D200 move forward with Imagine only if the majority of the community agrees. Dr. Grossi’s presentation does not suggest that D200 will necessarily seek community agreement. Most of us teach our children that acquiring knowledge and skills are more important than attending school in a grand edifice and to involve others when making decisions that impact them. Our hope is that the D200 board will ask the community — in a referendum — to decide upon Imagine.
Allan and Rhoda Bernstein Oak Park
V I E W P O I N T S
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Summer reading camp for low-income students
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hank you, Wednesday Journal, for publishing my piece on our “underperforming” middle schools (Brooks and Julian) with suggestions for intervention that would help bring low-income students achieve their grade level in reading/writing and math [What do we do about underperforming schools? Viewpoints, Nov.7]. There is a wealth of material on successful intervention programs for reading and writing, but there has been less success in math programs, so I will leave that for someone else. We all know programs that deal with early childhood education are the best way to prevent low skills by third grade However we must intervene at periods which are decisive in terms of entering middle school (fifth grade going into sixth) and entering high school (eighth grade going into ninth). We must also consider the issue of “summer learning loss” in which low-income students have a greater loss of achievement in summer than higher-income students. Throughout the U.S., summer reading programs have been created and evaluated. Some work; others don’t. The research data is readily obtainable and points to programs such as the What Works Clearinghouse, Teaching Matters, and other websites that have accumulated data over the years on intervention programs. Instead of summarizing the data, I will present my ideas for a Summer Reading Camp that incorporates the data interwoven with my ideas: 1. A 4- to 8-week, full-day program, offered free to students not performing to grade level. 2. Mornings to work on skill develop-
ment, lunch included as an opportunity to learn about good nutrition, and afternoons to incorporate museum visits, local pool party, film showings or other rewards. 3. Groups or teams should consist of 10-15 students. 4. Fifth-grade group, readiness for middle school in reading and writing skills, and eighth-grade group (based on results of PSAT 8/9 high school testing and other criteria) with readiness for high school. 5. Skill assessment at beginning and end of camp program, preferably of eight weeks length. 6. Highly skilled, socially committed teachers, with two per group. Could be present: area reading specialists or graduate students in education. 7. Parental involvement – at least weekly contact with parents to present each student’s progress as well as ways parents can help the student over the weekend by trips to a library, reading a book together, or spelling bees. Even a pilot program of one group of 10-15 students would give us a start toward lessening the achievement gap. Could we do this for summer 2019? I think it is possible to find the necessary funds and personnel to initiate a Summer Reading and Writing Camp for students in need of a caring and well-researched curriculum. Doing nothing means that yet another group of underperforming fifth-graders will start middle school and eighth-graders will be passed along to the high school. We cannot afford that as a community that values the best in education and cares for our children. Bobbie Raymond is a longtime Oak Park resident and head of the OPRF High School Alumni Association.
ROBERTA RAYMOND
Wednesday Journal, November 21, 2018
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One View
Oak Park and River Forest voters did well for J.B. It was a team effort. Oak Park is a unique community. However, when we got on board the J.B. Pritzker campaign for Illinois Governor, our efforts in Oak Park turned out ... hmmmm ... good. A 69.9 percent turnout. Every precinct in Oak Park carried for Pritzker. J.B. captured 81.58 percent of the vote. (J.B.’s right-wing, anti-union, pro 1% opponent received 15.37 percent of the Oak Park vote — an alarmingly high percentage that we will need to
work to lower in future campaigns!) In River Forest, our western neighbor, turnout was 61.13 percent, J.B got 67.4 percent of the River Forest votes for governor and all but one RF precinct carried for J.B. (The one RF precinct we lost, we lost by two votes.) Thanks for all your help.
Bob Haisman
Proudly from Oak Park and the Democratic Party of Oak Park
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Wednesday Journal, November 21, 2018
V I E W P O I N T S
D200’s declining PE needs As the District 200 school board considers facility improvements to address needs for today and tomorrow, it’s reasonable that the board review and update the school’s approaches to education and physical education (PE), before investing scores or hundreds of millions of taxpayer dollars. Yet the fact is that D200 has conducted no such PE review. And the actual “need” for PE space is declining. In her closing comments at the recent D200 Town Hall meeting, Superintendent PruittAdams incorrectly stated that the state of Illinois requires five days of high school PE each week. In August 2017, the state reduced the PE requirement from five to three days and also exempted all student athletes from PE while in season. Previously, only juniors and seniors on varsity teams were eligible to opt out of PE for a study hall. Fifteen months later, D200 has implemented neither update. During the 2017-2018 academic year, 1,429 students participated in at least one sport, and 466 students participated in multiple sports, according to D200. The total number of students participating in sports teams should have resulted in an equal number of PE exemptions. The state still issues PE waivers, despite lessening its mandatory requirements last year. Fenwick is one example. Its students are only required to take two semesters of PE during their four years, and PE classes meet only three days a week. Fenwick’s one-year PE requirement allows students more time for electives and AP classes too. In addition to updating its PE requirement,
it’s time D200’s classes undergo a 21st-century makeover. D200 students have the option of taking education classes online. Why not a virtual PE class? One has been offered at Charlottesville High School in Virginia since 2014. Students enrolled in the course wear a wristband that logs daily movement and complete an online course on exercise, healthy eating and general fitness principles. There’s another progressive program, also offered at a Charlottesville school, which provides swim lessons for elementary students. It’s a common-sense program as, according to the Park District of Oak Park, children who don’t learn to swim by the third grade or so are less likely to ever learn how to swim. Waiting to teach swimming to students in the ninth grade is not a best practice in the 21st century. In her comments, Pruitt-Adams also implied that Imagine’s large pool is a racial equity need. Such a comment and any effort to frame a large swimming pool, that’s double the size of a standard-size high school competition pool, as a racial equity need are disingenuous. Underscoring that point, an organizer of a recent racial equity rally held up a sign that said, “Ditch the Big Pool! It’s Drowning Racial Equity.” Email the board, BoE@oprfhs.org, and urge rational updates to the school’s PE requirements and rational action regarding its $218 million master facility plan that earmarks 60 percent of its expenditures to PE.
GAGE
us of the good, it lifts our spirits, it gives us courage to keep being who we are and doing what we need to do to help the world. There are many things that are weighing heavy on my heart these days, and so I take deep breaths and enjoy the clear cold blue skies. I hug the people I love. I enjoy delicious food and interesting conversation and great music. I appreciate being warm and cozy on a cold almost-winter’s day. I keep on learning and sharing my voice. I am part of the thousands, the millions, the infinity that love the people and the world around me. I have been lucky enough to have been part of many Thanksgiving celebrations over the course of my lifetime. They have not always been perfect. There’s been lumpy potatoes and spilled gravy, and arguing over toys, and bad table manners. There’s been traveling misadventures and difficult sleeping arrangements. There’s been ones where I’ve missed someone because I’ve been far away, or missed someone because they died. But there is always, always something to be grateful for. And so each has been perfect in its own way. “Suddenly, all my ancestors are behind me. ‘Be still’ they say. “Watch and listen. You are the result of the love of thousands.’”
Subversive joy from page 39 Thanksgiving became a national holiday in 1863, which was probably one of the worst times in our history as a country. The Civil War was happening, people in the country were battling each other, and the future did not look good. We weren’t sure what was going to happen to the United States; we didn’t know what, especially, was going to happen to the enslaved people. And still, Lincoln agreed that it would be a good time for people to stop and look around and give thanks. It seems like it would be easier to give thanks when things are going well. But I agree with Lincoln on this — I think it’s even more important to give thanks and be grateful when things are at their most challenging. I went to the Shabbat of Solidarity a couple of weeks ago, to gather with people after the tragedy at the synagogue in Pittsburgh. We gathered to mourn and to celebrate what someone called “subversive joy.” Subversive joy is an act of resistance. Giving thanks in difficult times is also an act of resistance. Giving thanks reminds
Monica Sheehan
OPRF Pragmatic Solutions
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An open letter to OPRF parents
e have had a very challenging few weeks at OPRF High School. The hate graffiti has highlighted larger issues within the school and community — issues that are not new, but now stand front and center. We are not the only community or school dealing with issues of inclusion and discrimination. Trinity high school in River Forest has now had an incident of hate speech in their school. As citizens of Oak Park and River Forest, we will shape with our actions or inaction what we stand for. And our children are watching us. What we do says more about who we are than what we say. As a psychologist and a mother of an OPRF student, I want to address the parents. These events of the last few weeks have been scary for everyone. Swastikas and hate speech always are. Our job, as parents and educators is to support the kids to take control of the narrative — I mean decide that, while this hatefulness happened and in the larger world happens at this moment, they can control the story, what these events will mean to them, how they will respond emotionally and with their boots on the ground. They are smart, they know bad things happen and will happen in life. But the ability to be resilient and creative in response to hatefulness is something you learn. We come with different strengths and challenges, but we can all learn to be more resilient. Our job now is to help our young people learn resilience. It begins with empowerment. Give them voice. Listen to their needs and, yes, their demands. Many of our students are very good at speaking up. We adults aren’t always as good at listening. But
it seems to be happening more now. Stay connected to your student by listening to them. Hold off on voicing your opinion or providing answers. We want to give them our answers instead of trusting that they will find their own. Give them an outlet for their feelings. Ask them if they need something from you (to advocate for them, come to a meeting, or just be there for them). If you feel you need to say something or do something, based on what they shared with you, let them know that. And don’t overwhelm them with your emotional response. They need room to figure out what they feel. The march and rally with OPRF faculty member Anthony Clark was very positive. It was a positive response to negative actions. The kids need to be included in finding solutions and feel a sense of purpose by taking steps now in their lives, to help create changes for a safer and fairer environment for themselves. I’m so proud of our students. They have been courageous and incredibly articulate when they are given a chance to speak. The questions they asked in the Wednesday night community meeting a few weeks ago were intelligent and provocative. Resilience begins with empowerment, listening to their perspective and respecting that, though young, they have valuable and even essential parts to play in real life problem-solving. As parents, we work hard to prepare our kids for the future. Building personal skills and competence now in the face of adversity is one of the most important life skills they will develop. Christine Popowits Look, PhD, is an Oak Park resident.
O’GRADY
The rock operas Tommy and Jesus Christ Superstar are the music of my youth, and I still love them. Next to Normal is in a category of its own; I have seen it 15 times.” Finally, I heard from two men who are married to each other, for whom music, theater, and musical theater define their lives. Their lists of favorites were so long that one pal said, “How big is the vehicle that will take me to this deserted island?” I guess I should have replied “Think raft, not destroyer.” At any rate, in addition to their very comprehensive list of faves, they both agree that anything by Joni Mitchell or Stephen Sondheim would be to them like Tom Hanks’ volleyball, Wilson, in the film Castaway.
CHRISTINE LOOK One View
from page 39 My longtime CSO partner says, “I could go on and on because I love music in so many genres: classic rock, pop, jazz (yes, of course, Ella and Dinah and others), cabaret and opera which are so close in the feeling they convey, symphonic music (I’d take the American composers like Copland and Bernstein and Barber and Floyd) and a few select European classical composers.” Another in that age group reports, “Lyrics are critical to my enjoyment of music. I love poet musicians like Leonard Cohen (my favorite of all time) and Tom Waits.
V I E W P O I N T S
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D O O P E R ’ S
I
45
M E M O R I E S
I wonder whatever became of Eddie Vollman
first met Eddie when he was in the sixth grade and I was in seventh. He was one of the students who crossed Oak Park Avenue at my patrol post on the corner of Oak Park and Chicago. Eddie was an only child who lived with his parents and grandmother in an apartment next to First United Methodist Church on Oak Park Avenue. His dad taught engineering at IIT, and his mother taught math at a Chicago public high school. His grandmother mainly stayed in the apartment. Eddie and I had a great deal in common, including a love for western movies. The Lake Theatre showed many western movies during the early 1950s, and Eddie and I rarely missed seeing one, paying 25 cents admission. Most every Saturday afternoon, we would go to The Lake to see our favorite western movie stars, of which there were many. Eddie and I also played sports — especially baseball, but for some reason we decided to take up tennis, which turned out to be a
complete flop because neither of us was fast enough to play the game. We persisted, however, ignoring the derision of the other players on the courts at Scoville Park. We then decided to play ping pong, and this required some improvisation since neither family owned a ping pong table. We bought paddles, balls and a net and persuaded Eddie’s mother to let us put two extra leaves in the Vollmer’s dining room table. We told her that the clamps used to attach the net to the table wouldn’t scratch the table. Well, the clamps marred the table and our games came to an end. Eddie and I also had a love for reading. We didn’t read to discover the answers to the mysteries of life; we read for fun. Our problem was that the librarian at the Main Library on Lake Street tried to
limit our reading to books in the children’s section — like animal tales and simple stories about American history. We read through these books rapidly, and we were then allowed to check out books from the adult section. Eddie and I were particularly interested in adventure stories by Dumas and one-time Oak Park resident Edgar Rice Burroughs, which included not only his books about Tarzan but also the Martian books. We also enjoyed Zane Grey and Victor Hugo. Although Eddie and I were rascally guys, we were both reasonably intelligent, but Eddie was sharper than I was in adapting to new situations. He was also self-assured and had an outgoing personality. The two of us were always hoping to win an electric train, an erector set, or a bike by
JOHN
STANGER
In praise of the Park District of Oak Park
S
Wednesday Journal, November 21, 2018
ometimes it’s easy to overlook the great things that surround us. One of those things is the Park District. Parks can be very positive forces to a community’s economic and environmental health and social welfare. I believe the Park District of Oak Park (PDOP) supports our community in those ways. It’s easy to take our parks for granted in a community like Oak Park that offers so much. I am part of the Greening Advisory Committee for the park district which has given me a little more insight into the activities of PDOP. It is unique in all of the special facilities and functions it provides: the Oak Park Conservatory; the Gymnastics and Recreation Center; the indoor, year-round ice rink; Pleasant Home in Mills Park; Cheney Mansion; Scoville Park as our community gathering place; Austin Gardens with the Environmental Learning Center; the Taylor wetlands and the Lindbergh native gardens; good community parks; an incredible program of activities and sports; a great environmental commitment; superior park maintenance; and astute financial stewardship. When you put all of these resources into a small land-locked community, it’s truly an amazing feat to provide all the playing fields for sports that our park district provides to our youth. I think it’s fair to say that the parks and facilities have never looked better than they do now. PDOP has done this job so well that it is recognized as one of the premier park districts for its size in the country, with the awards to prove it. The environmental commitment of the district is truly amazing. Within the past few years, there
TERRY GRACE
One View
is splash pad water recycling for irrigation at Longfellow and Field parks. Solar power has been installed at Ridgeland Common, Longfellow Park, Fox Park, and the Austin ELC, and is being added as much as possible as grants and cooperative agreements are
obtained. The taxpayer costs have been minimal for these projects. This could be a model for other government institutions. PDOP is working to recycle, compost, and reduce as much as possible; they work to promote “Carry In, Carry Out” programs and zero waste concerts; conversion of outdoor lights to LED lighting; near-elimination of pesticide usage; green buildings with the Environmental Learning Center and the Gymnastics Center; motion sensor lights; bioswales to reduce run-off; with plans for much more as resources allow. The amazing thing is that PDOP has done much of this environmental upgrading at minimal expense to the taxpayers. Due to legitimate concerns about property taxes, this cannot be emphasized too much. Investments in green technologies and principles have resulted in taxpayer savings much more rapidly. Example: conversion to LED lights was 50 percent supplemented by grants. Result: the park district’s investment paid off within a year, and the estimated savings thereafter: $13,000/year. Isn’t this the kind of governmental administration we are seeking? I truly hope the Oak Park community understands and appreciates the commitment the Park District of Oak Park has to its residents, their pocketbooks, and our environment. Terry Grace is an Oak Park resident and member of the park district’s Greening Advisory Committee.
selling magazine subscriptions. Eddie was the one who knocked on doors and made the sales pitch while I stood on the sidewalk trying to look intelligent. My job, though, was to keep the paperwork in order. Eddie was a super salesman because we won an erector set and an electric train. I kept the erector set and Eddie kept the train. Eddie and his family moved to Pittsburgh at the end of his eighth-grade year because his father accepted a teaching job at Carnegie Tech. I lost track of Eddie after he moved, but because he was a smart and resourceful guy, I am certain that he has had a great life. I am thankful that Eddie Vollman was my friend. John Stanger is a lifelong resident of Oak Park, a 1957 graduate of OPRF High School, married with three grown children and five grandchildren, and a retired English professor (Elmhurst College). Living two miles from where he grew up, he hasn’t gotten far in 78 years.
Enough already with the high-rises
Enough already! Even before there was a proposal for a 28-story high-rise on Lake Street the vast majority of Oak Parkers I’ve talked to were very unhappy with the glut of high-rise buildings in the last few years. This is a terrible idea, even if they are trying to get us to settle for something like 20 stories. Our village is being forever scarred by this rush to construction. The other day, I was trying to arrange lunch with a friend and she would not go into Oak Park from Oak Park to Harlem because of the traffic. I know several people who will no longer drive on Lake Street. I’m already finding it difficult to get in and out of the library garage and as the downtown buildings become fully occupied, the traffic will be backed up even more. The current high-rises going up are not yet completed and filled, so how can there be demand for more housing? What if this building is largely empty? The great Unity Temple would be overwhelmed. The claim that the high-rises would lower our taxes has not panned out at all. We all chose to move to Oak Park, not Evanston. The Oak Park quality is being lost. The “mayor” does not have a mandate. It’s true that we elected him because he is a business person, but that was to try to keep the small businesses that were moving to Forest Park. If he had run on the platform of building highrises, I know I would never have voted for him. Please keep the building to 5 stories or so. In the next election, I will be voting for the VOICE candidates, who believe in government listening to the people.
Joyce Porter Oak Park
Maybe a lesson here?
I see Hinsdale voters soundly defeated a $166M high school referendum to fund a wish list very similar to OPRF’s. You ask for too much, you get nothing. Imagine that.
Bob Stigger
Oak Park
46
Wednesday Journal, November 21, 2018
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ANNUAL STATEMENT OF AFFAIRS SUMMARY FOR FISCAL YEAR ENDING JUNE 30, 2018 Copies of the detailed Annual Statement of Affairs for the Fiscal Year Ending June 30, 2018 will be available for public inspection in the school district/joint agreement administrative office by December 1, annually. Individuals wanting to review this Annual Statement of Affairs should contact: Oak Park & River Forest High School Dist. #200 201 N Scoville Ave 708-434-3265 7:30 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. School District/Joint Agreement Name Address Telephone Office Hours Also by January 15 the detailed Annual Statement of Affairs for the Fiscal Year Ending June 30, 2018, will be posted on the Illinois State Board of Education’s website@ www.isbe.net. SUMMARY: The following is the Annual Statement of Affairs Summary that is required to be published by the school district/joint agreement for the past fiscal year. Statement of Operations as of June 30, 2018 Educational Operations Debt Services Transportation Municipal Capital Projects Working Cash Tort Fire Prevention & Maintenance Retirement/ & Safety Social Security Local Sources 1000 59,738,493 12,151,013 (18,529) 1,001,800 2,769,255 20,557 1,034,568 1,102,512 820,351 Flow-Through Receipts/Revenues from One District to Another District 2000 0 0 0 0 State Sources 3000 3,121,884 0 0 1,034,625 0 0 0 0 0 Federal Sources 4000 3,172,296 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 Total Direct Receipts/Revenues 66,032,673 12,151,013 (18,529) 2,036,425 2,769,255 20,557 1,034,568 1,102,512 820,351 Total Direct Disbursements/Expenditures 63,049,778 5,827,942 2,425,945 2,018,566 2,868,991 4,023,826 849,769 25,600 Other Sources/Uses of Funds 0 (3,792,513) 2,466,675 0 0 3,792,513 (2,466,675) 0 0 Beginning Fund Balances - July 1, 2017 80,943,876 123,740 197,827 3,085,335 2,957,623 3,219,351 4,969,762 4,170,474 1,627,812 Other Changes in Fund Balances 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 Ending Fund Balances June 30, 2018 83,929,771 2,654,298 220,028 3,103,194 2,857,887 3,008,595 3,537,655 4,423,217 2,422,563 PAYMENTS OVER $2,500, EXCLUDING WAGES AND SALARIES Person, Firm, or Corporation Edgenuity, Inc Ef Educational Tours Northwestern Univ Model Un Edvotek Scantron Igov Mighty Mites Awards Triton College William C Young Jr Stuller University Of Arkansas Press The Pogil Project Kristina M Johnson Sherwood Forest Farms Alarm Detection Systems, Inc. Ward’s Natural Science Melinda P. Novotny Illinois State University Paul N Wright Illinois Theatre Association Cum Laude Society Weissman Our Planet Automotive Vocareum, Inc The Ridge Hotel Amy Stanis Tom Tarrant Magic Tree Bookstore Louise Brueggemann Able Net Mhs, Inc Hinsdale Central High School Raymond James & Associates, Inc Music & Arts Center Timothy J Hasso Marks Travel Service, Inc. Bmo Harris Bank Verizon Network Fleet Diversity Training & Consulting, In Peoria Charter Coach Company Washburn Machinery, Inc University Of Illinois Creative Language Class Llc Oriental Trading Company Hotel Harrington Knowledge Matters Ilmea District 1 Bernie Heidkamp Laura Voigt Biozone Corporation Cms Communications Maureen Grady Access Lift, Inc. Thomson Reuters Doron Precision Systems I.d.e.s. Munuc Bob Roger’s Travel Westmont Interior Supply House National Association Of Biology Tea Coleman Chiropractic Sports Care Waukegan Roofing Co., Inc National Seating & Mobility Chicago Tribune Media Group J.c. Licht, Llc Holden Towels Correct Electric Inc Meetinghouse Companies Inc William Aramil Illinois Association Of School Boards Northwestern Medical Group Modern Energy Systems, Inc Sheila Johnson Citadel Information Management Insperity Business Services Midwest Principals’ Center, Inc. Screencastify, Llc Jfc International Christy O’halloran Clarke Council For Exceptional Children International Society Of Technical Linda Carlson Stacey A Gibson Perma-Bound Msdsonline Ignacio Ponce Jr West 40 Rssp
Aggregate Amount $2,500.00 $2,500.00 $2,514.00 $2,517.90 $2,523.05 $2,524.46 $2,534.00 $2,535.20 $2,537.50 $2,548.69 $2,550.00 $2,550.00 $2,550.55 $2,563.00 $2,574.25 $2,586.16 $2,587.25 $2,600.00 $2,600.66 $2,605.00 $2,630.00 $2,634.77 $2,638.78 $2,640.00 $2,643.92 $2,666.68 $2,683.47 $2,697.00 $2,706.08 $2,707.10 $2,710.67 $2,740.00 $2,750.00 $2,776.29 $2,779.91 $2,781.60 $2,794.00 $2,799.50 $2,800.00 $2,825.00 $2,830.99 $2,832.00 $2,840.00 $2,851.64 $2,875.74 $2,890.00 $2,900.00 $2,901.46 $2,935.00 $2,961.75 $2,965.68 $2,993.75 $3,000.00 $3,003.95 $3,010.00 $3,019.47 $3,045.00 $3,058.00 $3,069.34 $3,070.00 $3,078.00 $3,079.00 $3,088.90 $3,109.07 $3,146.15 $3,150.00 $3,160.00 $3,162.35 $3,185.60 $3,194.00 $3,200.00 $3,200.00 $3,202.50 $3,211.00 $3,217.72 $3,224.00 $3,240.00 $3,242.70 $3,261.74 $3,262.00 $3,280.00 $3,295.54 $3,300.00 $3,300.15 $3,360.00 $3,378.90 $3,400.00
G&K Services Chicago Shakespeare Theater Freestyle Photographic Supplies Neopost Usa Ncpers Group Life Ins (#1985) Certica Solutions, Inc Ml Rongo Inc Kristin Wirtz Bhfx Pear Deck, Inc Matinga Ragatz Abc Window Cleaning Co. Royal Pipe & Supply Co Marilyn Marshall Jason Fried Riverside-Brookfield High School Specialty Floors, Inc Illinois Dept Of Revenue Broadway In Chicago Jostens Printing & Publishing Irving & Peter R. Meyers Ptr Hinsdale Twp High School Dist #86 Thomas Pump Company Mep, Inc. Timothy Freehan Crisis Prevention Institute Plus One Av Atlas Bobcat Scope Shoppe Inc Bright Endeavors Mc Master-Carr Supply Co James C Sieck Larson Company Amigos Library Services Adolph Kiefer Vertical Endeavors Pianoforte Krossover (Spay, Inc) Kurzweil Educational. Inc. Learn By Doing, Inc. Court Theatre Cbiz Retirement Plan Services Bluemack Airgas Usa Rayner & Rinn-Scott, Inc School Specialty Reta Security, Inc. Meadowlark Golf Course Ebsco Information Services Carrier Corporation Holiday Inn Chicago North-Evanston Gourmet’s Delight Inc Alexian Brothers Behavioral Formal Fashions Inc Rachel Loftin, Phd, Pc Nicole Cordero Tableau Software, Inc W W Norton & Co Inc Ice Town Crystal Financial Consultants, Inc Health Resource Service Mgmt Identisys, Inc Illinois Computing Educators New York Times Agile Sports Technologies Waters Edge Golf Club Valor Technologies, Inc Verizon Wireless Cisco-Eagle Inc Oprfhs Food Service Minipcr Makemusic, Inc. Micheline Piekarski Texthelp, Inc The Omni Group Mike Powell Visual Image Photography, Inc. Oak Park & River Forest Food Pantry Housing Forward Global Alliance For Africa Ed-Red Alimed Cintas Corporation #23K Aramark Mr. David’s Carpet Service Standard Stationery Supply Co Overdrive, Inc. Athletic Equipment Source Barnes & Noble Booksellers
$3,419.44 $3,429.75 $3,440.03 $3,441.89 $3,456.00 $3,474.45 $3,475.00 $3,476.99 $3,495.00 $3,500.00 $3,500.00 $3,500.00 $3,505.74 $3,525.06 $3,532.24 $3,535.00 $3,547.00 $3,575.77 $3,606.00 $3,626.28 $3,637.72 $3,650.00 $3,660.00 $3,682.50 $3,697.78 $3,729.80 $3,738.00 $3,774.26 $3,814.20 $3,834.00 $3,839.11 $3,843.67 $3,859.00 $3,895.45 $3,960.00 $3,978.00 $3,998.00 $3,998.00 $4,000.00 $4,000.00 $4,020.00 $4,066.92 $4,127.50 $4,145.20 $4,163.66 $4,235.42 $4,250.00 $4,284.00 $4,295.86 $4,302.97 $4,304.16 $4,318.00 $4,320.00 $4,357.86 $4,362.50 $4,387.61 $4,410.00 $4,416.00 $4,525.00 $4,550.00 $4,580.94 $4,595.00 $4,600.00 $4,662.00 $4,699.00 $4,700.00 $4,710.00 $4,764.91 $4,769.00 $4,790.80 $4,841.00 $4,879.00 $4,886.40 $4,941.00 $4,972.50 $4,979.51 $4,992.00 $5,000.00 $5,000.00 $5,000.00 $5,000.00 $5,007.24 $5,065.85 $5,123.08 $5,200.00 $5,232.50 $5,239.31 $5,330.36 $5,391.00
Noredink Corp Trophies By George Heph Foundation S & R Sport Project Lead The Way, Inc Sikich Rivar’s Shar Products Company Fisher Scientific Cooperative Assn For Special Ed Phoenix Systems Pasco Scientific Buona Beef Brook Electrical Distribution Conserv Fs Mid South Baseball John Kasarda Aqua Pure Enterprises, Inc. Sos Technologies Brenda Horton Daniel Lee Moore Keeper Goals Compass Health Center Chicago Amplified It, Llc Automated Logic Corporation Fuse Technical Group Berlands House Of Tools Andy Frain Services Pizza Hut Mybudgetfile Inc Rush Univ Med Center Metropolitan Preparatory Michelle Bayer Fluid/Air Products Joseph D Curtis Berwyn Garage Burnt Ends Llc Prc Tyler Technologies, Inc Jamf Software Wednesday Journal Quality Huts, Llc West Suburban Conference Snap-On Industrial Mr. David’s Flooring Illinois State Board Of Ed J W Pepper & Son, Inc. Opportunity Knocks University Of Illinois At Chicago University Of Illinois At Chicago Seps, Inc. Cove School Perfect Cut Productions Tom Vaughn Standing Trustee Oprfhs Athletic Imprest Account Shirtworks Mps Coach Comm, Llc Edward Stauber Wholesale Apple Store Customink.com Oxford University Press Yoko Schmadeke Neff Company International Sport Surfaces Kaplan Higher Learning Corp - Pre-C Cote Decorating Co Southwest Regional Publishing Clic/School Board Legal Isdlaf Plu Vex Robotics Quill Corp. Great Lakes Clay & Supply Co Robert C Collins Applause! Ncs-Pearson Inc. Education Framework Inc Illinois Student Assistance Commiss Achieve3000 Totem Lumber Supply Daniel S Cohen Turnitin Samuel French Inc Gray Step Software Inc C. R. Leonard School Health Corporation Dunbar Armored, Inc. Varsity Rio Grande Arthur J Gallagher Rms, Inc.
$5,500.00 $5,574.90 $5,600.00 $5,629.19 $5,690.00 $5,713.50 $5,774.79 $5,790.08 $5,794.69 $5,829.64 $5,865.34 $5,871.00 $5,890.52 $5,892.33 $5,895.20 $5,900.00 $5,900.00 $5,967.00 $5,975.00 $5,994.27 $6,000.00 $6,040.00 $6,090.00 $6,125.00 $6,179.00 $6,184.00 $6,193.99 $6,337.84 $6,416.25 $6,500.00 $6,575.00 $6,691.50 $6,740.29 $6,775.23 $6,800.00 $6,803.90 $6,817.25 $6,820.00 $6,902.50 $6,960.00 $6,973.50 $6,973.75 $7,000.00 $7,026.05 $7,042.81 $7,071.91 $7,084.74 $7,140.00 $7,300.00 $7,300.00 $7,313.60 $7,354.80 $7,475.00 $7,518.50 $7,554.28 $7,558.30 $7,572.62 $7,661.00 $7,668.59 $7,671.92 $7,836.24 $7,850.13 $8,027.41 $8,308.20 $8,350.00 $8,350.00 $8,373.00 $8,406.00 $8,452.00 $8,457.96 $8,497.50 $8,541.04 $8,635.70 $8,677.00 $8,689.85 $8,750.00 $8,769.18 $8,905.00 $8,949.20 $9,103.96 $9,175.00 $9,207.10 $9,209.96 $9,308.50 $9,371.02 $9,403.97 $9,420.40 $9,454.43 $9,480.00
Aa Rental College Entrance Examination Board South Side Control Supply Co Palmer House Hilton Tprs Books Vernier Software & Technology Nelco Ultimate Golf Inc Anderson Lock Davis Tree Care Naviance Universal Dance Association Industrial Wholesale Lumber Nasco Innersync Michigan State Disbursement Unit Educational Systems & Services Bmc Software Lifestyle Beverages, Inc. Presto-X Ameriprise Financial Services Mail Finance Upslope Solutions, Llc Riddiford Roofing Company Dude Solutions Ambassador Athletic Apparel Scantex Business Systems Art Of Problem Solving P.a. Crimson Westgate Flowers Marine Lab Resources Carlsen’s Elevator Service Wenger Corp Cooperative Association For Domino’s Pizza Sunbelt Staffing Integrated Systems Corporation Wi Center For Education Research Lisa Garvin, Msw Hoh Water Technology, Inc. Knowbe4 Premier Agendas Inc Apex Learning E-Conolight North-West Drapery Illinois State Police Td Ameritrade Institutional Sweetwater Johnson Controls (Simplexgrin) Pacific Educational Group Carolina Biological Supply Diamond Ranch Academy Randall Industries April Building Services, Inc Service Sanitation, Inc. Powerschool Group Llc Wesley Woods Retreat Center Equal Opportunity Schools College Board R.e. Walsh & Associates, Inc Home Depot Credit Services Quinlan & Fabish Barak Player Sports Frontline Technologies Group, Llc Bill Lane & Associates Office Depot Cher-Mar Mechanical Insulation Tasc-Client Invoices Kathleen L Myers Metlife Veolia Environmental Services Trimark Marlinn Universal Taxi Dispatch, Inc Ms. Roberts Academy Gale/Cengage Learning Sievert Electric Service Perspectives Forecast 5 Goldstar Learning, Inc. Clyde Printing Company Central Continental Bakery Hpi International Camp Manitoqua Coldesi Headquarters Netrix Renaissance Learning, Inc Cengage Learning Academic Approach, Llc
$9,482.50 $9,512.00 $9,662.05 $9,741.85 $9,927.50 $9,942.90 $10,062.50 $10,080.50 $10,120.05 $10,200.00 $10,219.11 $10,255.00 $10,315.74 $10,326.61 $10,471.20 $10,560.44 $11,055.00 $11,241.81 $11,292.44 $11,326.00 $11,460.58 $11,668.74 $11,860.00 $11,880.00 $11,978.68 $12,227.50 $12,239.00 $12,553.00 $12,661.42 $12,828.78 $12,891.40 $12,981.90 $12,997.00 $13,056.00 $13,108.00 $13,124.50 $13,200.00 $13,500.00 $13,800.00 $13,801.99 $13,830.28 $13,850.00 $14,700.00 $14,893.74 $14,990.00 $15,000.00 $15,074.73 $15,143.96 $15,282.00 $15,365.00 $15,403.58 $15,421.24 $15,587.05 $15,885.00 $16,075.71 $16,296.38 $16,393.50 $16,500.00 $16,901.00 $17,035.13 $17,086.64 $17,092.46 $17,125.04 $17,132.72 $17,237.62 $17,267.75 $17,269.16 $17,485.05 $17,809.06 $18,130.00 $18,200.00 $18,238.95 $18,254.64 $18,374.00 $18,600.00 $18,813.46 $19,121.50 $19,160.00 $19,250.00 $19,374.03 $19,633.00 $19,840.78 $20,000.48 $20,411.05 $20,508.00 $20,548.16 $20,568.42 $20,573.86 $21,605.00
Boathouse Sports Bob’s Dairy Service Mcgraw-Hill Companies Center For Psychological Services The Sandner Group, Alt. Risk Soltns Center For Independence Follett School Solutions, Inc Flinn Scientific Frank Cooney Co Spirit Products Music Filing Solutions Maryville Academy Huntco Site Furnishings Uncharted Learning, Nfp Advent Systems, Inc. Avant Assessment, Llc Barnes & Noble Jeffrey Kelly Costume Design Riddell/All American At&T Valic Hero K12 Advanced Disposal Vistar Of Illinois B&H Photo And Video U.s. Postal Service Chicago Flyhouse Inc Boom Entertainment Emc Publishing Llc Pocket Nurse International Equipment Inc Pearson Education Oak Park Twnshp Youth Services Petty Cash, Oprfhsd #200 Little Friends, Inc. Decisioned Group, Inc Kranz Inc. Postmaster, Oak Park Metlife Fuel Education Alpha Baking Co Hanover Research United Radio Comm, Inc. Staples Great Lakes West, Llc Clare Woods Academy Chandler Decision Service, Llc Parkland Prep Academy, Inc Comcast Mc Adam Landscaping, Inc Pekron Consulting Unicom.arc Barr Mechanical Sales Securatex Vision Service Plan (Il) Des Plaines Valley Region Jewish Child & Family Services Kendall/Hunt Publishing Shc Services Inc Acer America Skyward Menta Academy-Hillside Excel Edge Villa Park Office Equipment Noland Sales Maxim Staffing Solutions Nicor Gas Veritiv Operating Company Parkway Forming Inc Blue Cab Healthpro Rehabilitation Gallagher Benefit Services, Inc Andrews Technology Hms, Inc Airport Electric Blick Art Materials Pilgrim Congregational Church Speedlink Jtb Usa, Inc Il State Disbursement Unit The Chicago Autism Academy, Inc Protolight, Inc. Britten School Conference Technologies, Inc Meck Print Illinois Municipal Retirement Northern Il Academy C. Acitelli Heating & Piping Contra First Investors Perkins & Will Inc
$21,725.95 $21,792.03 $21,988.71 $22,550.00 $23,231.00 $23,262.00 $23,427.09 $23,504.78 $23,611.08 $23,890.80 $24,317.00 $24,337.50 $24,989.00 $25,045.00 $25,363.00 $26,133.90 $26,209.40 $26,555.00 $26,808.57 $26,895.97 $27,055.92 $27,100.40 $27,105.63 $27,937.04 $28,534.93 $30,000.00 $30,538.00 $30,848.88 $32,297.17 $32,903.89 $33,600.00 $33,668.43 $33,990.30 $34,308.02 $34,553.58 $34,872.00 $34,989.86 $35,450.00 $35,983.99 $36,000.00 $36,457.12 $36,500.00 $37,003.26 $37,380.27 $38,059.50 $38,143.20 $39,187.50 $39,571.99 $39,863.28 $41,629.50 $42,166.00 $43,112.64 $43,950.00 $44,302.34 $44,803.47 $45,926.00 $46,252.10 $47,325.41 $48,699.24 $48,765.50 $49,187.45 $49,666.13 $50,020.00 $50,356.58 $50,431.00 $50,866.50 $51,561.28 $51,768.26 $52,200.00 $52,225.00 $52,688.00 $55,250.00 $57,618.00 $57,846.36 $58,900.51 $58,966.83 $59,070.00 $59,241.60 $61,072.01 $61,756.28 $62,625.03 $64,186.20 $64,638.00 $64,933.55 $65,151.45 $65,730.25 $65,785.15 $67,070.77 $68,049.81
Wednesday Journal, November 21, 2018
OAKPARK.COM | RIVERFOREST.COM
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PAYMENTS OVER $2,500, EXCLUDING WAGES AND SALARIES (CONT’D) Franczek Radelet & Rose M G Trust Company Elim Christian Services Athletico Ideal Charter At&T Global Services Baker Tilly Virchow Krause, Llp Zayo Group Falcon Ridge Ranch Bridge View Extended Day Powerstone Communications Llc Colfax Corporation Seiu Local 73 Waddell & Reed Hyatt Regency Chicago Bob Wondries Ford Pearson - Prentice Hall
$68,335.66 $68,908.45 $69,603.99 $71,637.51 $71,695.50 $72,974.24 $73,105.00 $73,610.48 $74,555.65 $75,516.70 $77,100.00 $77,200.00 $81,795.55 $83,078.72 $83,684.75 $83,729.01 $88,685.18
Challenger Day School Grainger Soaring Eagle Academy, Inc Get Fresh Produce Incorporated New Horizon Center For The Solacium New Haven, Llc Edward Don & Co Connect Search, Llc Integrity Fitness Special Education Systems Indico, Llc Lincoln Investment Planning, Inc Pacific Life Vanguard Energy Services, Llc P.a.c.t.t. Learning Center Joseph Academy Gordon Flesch
$91,800.80 $94,361.39 $96,601.83 $96,727.44 $106,301.04 $107,068.97 $114,214.36 $114,842.70 $115,417.42 $118,023.29 $119,008.41 $119,359.00 $122,815.73 $125,225.13 $126,600.12 $130,411.20 $134,057.01
Change Academy At Lake Of The Ozark Great Lakes Coca-Cola Distribution, Ap Exams Unique Products Alpine Academy Amazon.com, Inc. River Forest Community Center Houghton Mifflin Oprfhs/Faculty Senate Dues New Hope Academy Thresholds Giant Steps Illinois, Inc All-Ways Transportation Services, I Yellowstone Boys And Girls Ranch Bsn Sports Village Of Oak Park
$141,934.56 $143,044.64 $145,019.00 $145,348.41 $153,215.00 $154,407.12 $156,372.70 $167,283.97 $180,994.54 $188,507.80 $189,066.89 $193,145.00 $193,459.22 $202,852.12 $203,211.01 $206,927.42
Easter Seals Metropolitan Chicago $208,778.54 Legat Architects $238,575.08 Glen Oaks Therapeutic Day School $252,612.45 Bellefaire Jewish Children’s Bureau $258,808.48 E2 Services $273,280.94 Robbins Schwartz Nicholas Lifton $312,478.74 Frederick L. Chamberlain Center, In $321,043.15 First Student $325,644.45 Equivest $383,322.63 Fidelity Investments $413,806.36 The Hope Institute For Children $424,156.15 Krueger International $446,269.35 Village Of Oak Park Ecc (Dist 200) $447,310.00 Bmo Harris Mastercard $474,987.92 Oak Park & River Forest High School $500,000.00 Delta Dental Plan Of Illinois $514,285.94 Constellation Energy Services $552,648.52
Osa Integrated Solutions, Llc $557,413.98 Sonia Shankman Orthogenic School $576,949.91 Clic $581,852.00 Menta Academy Oak Park $611,272.64 THIS $685,752.77 Performance Foodservice-Chicago $762,209.85 Madison Construction Company $1,041,142.57 Grand Prairie Transit Ws $1,134,755.49 Cdw Government, Inc. $1,325,753.34 Henry Bros. Co. $1,476,152.88 Lincoln Investment $1,495,666.64 State Of Illinois $1,851,591.60 Illinois Municpl Retiremt Fund $2,019,304.17 Teachers Retirement System $3,225,962.26 Healthcare Service Corporation $7,724,770.57 IRS $7,876,609.34
ANNUAL STATEMENT OF AFFAIRS SUMMARY FOR FISCAL YEAR ENDING JUNE 30, 2018 SALARY SCHEDULE OF GROSS PAYMENTS FOR CERTIFICATED PERSONNEL AND NON-CERTIFICATED PERSONNEL GROSS PAYMENT FOR CERTIFICATED PERSONNEL Salary Range: Less Than $25,000 Agrela, Maria-Elena; Ahmed, Karen Hunt; Allen, Darryl ;Allen, Keven ;Allen, Suzanne L; Ancieta, Victor; Anderson, Kjerstin Julia; Anderson, Rashada; Apostol, Emmanuel; Appel, Michael; Aramil, William J; August, Donald J; Bagos, Miroslava; Barbian, Christopher D; Batts, Triniece; Berg, Aileen; Blackman, Francis; Block, Yulia; Boland, Harry; Bracey, Julie; Brown, Andrea M; Bruce, Justin Dalton; Buckner, Eliza; Budimirovic, Gordan; Burgess, Cameron R; Butera, Heike; Calabrese, Jeanne; Calcagno, Asia; Carter, Jameel; Castronovo, Kim; Chase, Paul; Cheefus, Mekonya; Chierici, Rocco O; Clark, Jamael I; Clemons, Marcus; Coglianese, Steven J; Collins, Niall; Collins, Tracy L; Cone, Patricia A; Connell, Hannah C; Connelly, Maeve E; Cordero, Nicole; Cornelius-Burke, Connor L; Corvo, Angela; Cotiguala, James R; Cousin, Janice; Cozette, Kara; Crespo, Mikki; Danielewicz, Richard; Darr, Joshua; Davion, Colette; Davis, Gwyneth; De La Paz Canel, Alberto; Debord, Joseph; Dennehy, Timothy D; Divine, Taylor; Dixon, Marcie Lynn; Doherty, Bridget; Druley-Herron, Katherine E; Dudek, Stephen; Dye, Jason Michael; Eiger, Stephanie; Fantozzi, Richard K; Farnham, Ryan A; Fedro, Alexandria; Fiala, Esther; Fillyaw, William; Fischer, Alexander; Flowers-Mance, Andrea A; Fondow, Grace; Fox, Robert R; Freehan, Timothy; Frisch, Alexandria; Galvan Alba, Elisa; Gamble, Timothy L; Garcia, Antonio E; Garland, Tyrone; Gentile, Rosalee L; Gerin, Virgil; Gillett, Michael Schaap; Glamoclija, Natasa; Goddeyne, Ann; Gronwold, Benjamin I; Gumin, Pauline; Hall, Jamie; Hamilton, Kathleen J; Harczak, Michael J; Harris, Claudia B; Hartman, Edward Elliott; Heneghan, Joseph; Hernandez, Shannone; Hines, Derik S; Hitpas, Andrea L; Holman, Deborah; Holt, Cathleen; Hooper, Amber M; Hoshi, Megumi; Hunt, Henry; Jacobucci, Jennifer; Jaques, Alfred Bernardo; Jennings, Candice Latisa; Johnston, Brent; Kadlec, Christian; Kalal, Benjamin; Kimmel, Carol; Kirsch, Jon; Kitto, Karen; Kluber, William T; Kolbusz, Mel F; Krausz, Mark Thomas; Kuchenbecker, Jay S; Kudo, Matthew A; Lamar, Peter; Levi, Yakira; Lian, Rebecca; Linninger, Philip M; Lipa, Jennifer L; Luchez, Sylvia Prokopowicz; Mackenzie, Nigel; Madden, Lori; Majnarich, Melissa J; Martin, Paul; Marzullo, Matthew; Mcelhatton, Ann Elizabeth; Mcginness, Timothy; Mcnamara, Mari Jo; Mead, Robert; Meglan, Christopher; Miller, Michelle R; Morgan-Williams, Antoinette Celeste; Morlidge, John B; Mroczek, Joseph; Muncy, Veronica; Neusner, Samuel; Ocasek, Thomas; Ogundipe, Kathleen J; Ousley, Linda; Ozarka, Katherine Lauren; Paloian, Deanna Marie; Pena-Davis, Janet; Perez, Elizabeth J; Peters, Jennifer F; Pontikes, Peter L; Poulos, Valerie S; Powell, Michael J; Powers, Nathan; Prechel, Katie; Prendergast, Michael; Prossnitz, Megan Elizabeth; Quan Kiu Vazquez, Elizabeth; Raad, Jason R; Ramos, Vanessa; Rapp, John; Reid, Rhonda M; Rigas, Mike; Ristau, Meghan A; Robinson, Martha Suezette; Robinson, Minnie; Roche, Mark; Rodriguez, Kaitlyn Brianna; Romine, David Malcolm; Romoser, Lisa T; Routen, Orlando Bruce; Rundell, Veronica; Russo, Gia; Rutter, Eric C; Sakellaris, Nick J; Sandoval, Sofia; Sharif, Madihah; Simatic, Charles M; Smith, Diane Lee; Soo, Tiffany; Sorensen, Michael M; Spencer, Stephanie; St. Clair, Sean; St. John, Monica; Staples, Jennifer; Sullivan, Bennett Gene; Sundling, Miriam Sally; Taflan, Eileen; Taylor, Marc; Tegmeyr, Kara; Tencate, Therese; Thewis, Leah; Thomas, Dellrita; Thomas, Jennifer; Thompson, Jaclyn; Tisue, Heather E; Touchette, Melanie; Trowbridge, John L; Troyanovich, Allyson Kathleen; Tunnicliff, Alison; Turk, Laura; Vagias, Demetra; Velazquez, Lauren; Vellucci, Jacob; Wallace-Silha, Jacquelyn Denise; Walsh, Natalie; Wassmer, Lauren; Weigel, Marjorie E;
White, Megan A; Wilson, Ronald; Wiza, Noah; Wong, Cindy; Wright, Kristina L Salary Range: $25,000 - $39,999 Adelman, Jonathan B; Cain, Jennifer; Day, Noriko; Melgar Hooks, Patricia; Shallenberger, Thomas M; Young, Karen Salary Range: $40,000 - $59,999 Cano, Paula; Cousin, Justin C; Finkbeiner, Kristen; Honn, Kevin A; Hung, Ailien; Lukic Cole, Daniela; Walquist, Stephanie; Young, Laura K Salary Range: 60,000 - $89,999 Ackerman, Craig; Arceo-Witzl, Ixtla R; Belpedio, Kristina M; Benson, Conchita; Bracey, Christopher; Brown, Andrew; Brueggemann, Louise; Cain, Benjamin J; Calcuttawala, Nabiha; Callaghan, Kevin A; Campbell, Kevin T; Colamussi, Ginger; Curtis, Joseph D; Doyle, Kelly A; Eakley, Jennifer A; Ecker, Jonathan; Ferguson, Lauren; Geissler, Kaitlin; Glower, Alexis; Godinez, Melissa; Himes, Khalida; Hornik, Natalie; Houk, Jennifer M; Howell, Jessica A; Jaber, Sana; Johnson, Susan; Johnston, Christine; Kaiser, Kelsey V; Kanwischer, Jennifer L; Kralik, Catherine A; Krefft, Lauren M; Kuenster, Wendy S; Makely, Lisa; Martin, Daniel R; Mcnulty, Sara L; Miller, Scott W; Moore, Jazmen; Morris, Jacquelyn; Pitt, Rachel; Preuss, Tiffany; Ruzicka, Peter; Ryan, Joseph; Sadowski, Teslen; Sieck, James C; St. John, Benjamin W; Stephen, Michael; Stewart-Day, Chonita; Tarantino, Carley; Tarshish, Evan; Terretta, Julee M; Valenzuela, Patricia; Watson, Ellayne; Watzman, Stephen; White, Valerie R; Wilson, Rockeya; Wirtz, Kristin; Wolman, Daniel; Woytek, Patricia Salary Range: $90,000 And Over Booth, Christine N; Borja, James; Brent, Virginia E; Brown, Douglas E; Burbano, Jaime M; Burns, Linda G; Byars, Michael B; Byrne, Deirdre; Cahill, Meghan; Caldwell, Daniel; Campbell, Tia D; Carlson, Linda M; Carparelli, Annamaria; Carrow-Sever, Michelle M; Cartier, Kirsten A; Chichester, D James; Clark, Anthony V; Cohen, Daniel S; Collins, Kelly A; Collins, Mark S; Collins, Paul D; Colquhoun, Jeremy D; Condne, John J; Conrick, Teresa B; Conway, Joseph M; Conway, Lauren B; Corcoran, Daniel W; Costopoulos, John T; Coughlin, James P; Dalo, Nicholas J; Davis, Brian M; Dennis, Jason R; Depasquale, Katie J; Detrick, Tilia; Diaz, Kelly M; Diverde, Marci L; Dixon, Kennedi; Domanchuk, Theodore P; Dorame, Michael A; Dunson-Johnson, Betina; Espinosa, Jill; Farley, Elizabeth A; Farrow, Elizabeth; Faust, C Stan; Ferrier, Suze A; Fischer, Timothy J; Fotzler, Kimberly L; Fox, Elizabeth Kaufman; Fredrickson, Andrew L; Frey, Julie L; Fried, Jason; Fuentes, Julie L; Gajda, Joyce L; Gallagher, Helen C; Ganschow, Daniel J; Gardner, Tamara Johnette; Geovanes, James J; Giovannetti, Louis F; Gonzalez, Manuel; Grady, Maureen E; Graham, Jane E; Grosser, William; Hanson, Jacqueline; Hardin, Sheila M; Heidkamp, Bernard E; Hennings, Allison K; Herbst, Joseph M; Hildner, Naomi O; Hill, Amy V; Hill, Douglas A; Hobson, Darryl; Hoerster, John R; Hoffmann, Jennifer L; Hostrawser, Peter H; Hunter, Sarah Dove; Johnson, Gregory T; Johnson, Kristina M; Joyce, Fawn C; Kahn, Peter R; Kennedy, Meghan M; Kennedy, Thomas J; Kinnan, Glynis J; Kirkpatrick, Matthew J; Kleinfeldt, Daniel A; Kostal, Joseph J; Kramer, Leigh M; La Porte, Danielle L; Ledbetter, Christian J; Lee, Brendan T; Lee, Jason B; Lee, Lauren E; Lesniak, John M; Lessing, Avram; Leuschel-Perzov, Erin K; Limberg, Dana C; Lundgren, Clyde O; Lynch, Heidi K; Madock, Katherine; Maloney, Matthew W; Martinek, Vincent M; Mazumdar, Rena N; Mccarron, Kevin L; Mccormack, Patrick S; Mcgrail, Amy Christopher; Mcguire, Meredith; Mckee, Kristen K; Mckittrick, Christina L; Mckittrick, Kevin M; Mclaughlin, Cameron E; Mcmurray, Matthew T; Medina,
Real.
Local. Community.
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Esteban Z; Mertz, Richard A; Messer, James D; Michalek, Lingen, Kathryn Virginia; Livingston, Harris; Lloyd, Carlyn; Loud Nicholas; Miller, Gary M; Mondragon, Christine A; Moran, Iv, Irwin C; Loughran, Liam P; Mack, Crystal; Mance, Londen; Katherine M; Mulvaney, Ryan; Murray Baielli, Scyla J; Myers, Marcus, Karen; Marcus, Nathaniel; Martinez, Kendra; Martinez, Allison S; Myland, Sarah; Nash, Elizabeth Caliendo; Nelson, Normareli; Mascaro Romine, Emma Rene; Mc Intyre, Rebecca; Faith M; Neuman, Andrea J; Nixen, Pete D; Noble, Paul G; North Mceachen, Jacob H; Miller, Auden Paul; Miller, Paolo Romolo; Hamill, Anita; Novotny, Melinda P; Nudera, James A; Ojikutu, Momney, Andrew Alexander; Monroy, Dereck; Moore-Fields, Carolyn T; O’keefe, Eleanor C; Oliver, Stephanie M; Pang, Lucas; Kendall Ann; Moore-Fields, Lindsay Cornelia; Muhammad, Pappalardo, Mark N; Parenti, Joseph J; Pearson, Patrick A; Pena, Nadirah T; Murray, Ryan; Nelson, Connor Thor; Nelson, Kenneth Emmanuel; Perez, Cynthia; Perez, Luis P; Podolner, Aaron S; Luke; Neumann, Benjamin; Norman, Emmet; Nowak, Hope Ponce Jr, Ignacio; Potts, Robert M; Prebble, Matthew; PruittAdeline; O’connor, Ruairi; Oldach, Kathryn R; Oltman, Alessa M; Adams, Joylynn L; Purvis, Derrick R; Quinn, Peter W; Rabichow, Parrell, Claire; Pendleton, Kyle Anderson; Perez-Feliz, Alexander; Keldra L; Radziszewski, Dariusz; Ramilo, Gisele P; Reagan, A Perisho, Margaret; Petges, Amanda; Phillpotts, Zoe; Politis, Clay; Roodhouse, Sarah J; Rosas, Sarah E; Roth, Jenifer M; Matthew James; Pospisil, Rachel; Pulliam, Patrice; Ramirez, Rouse, Nathaniel L; Sahagun, Claudia C; Sakellaris, Max A; Alexis Maria; Ramos, Erica Maleah; Ramp, Jonathan Phillip Schmadeke, Yoko K; Schwartz, Steven M; Sherman, Thaddeus; Spence; Reeves, Eric; Reilly, William C; Risch, Jaycie Madison; Silver, Jonathan S; Singletary, Rahasad; Smolek, Jeri; Soffer, Roarty, Clare A; Ross, Abram Amos; Ross, Malachi Matthew; Michael B; Spilotro, Raffaella M; Sponsler, Scott; Spoorharvey, Ryan, Maeve R; Sawyer, Nicholas James; Schiffner, Matthew S; Jason; Stanis, Amy M; Steffen, Emily S; Stelzer, John A; Stoeger, Schoeny, Alexander; Schroeder, Mahal B; Scott, Renee; Sears, Mary; Stow, Kristen S; Sullivan, Karin H; Svejda, Anthony J; Robin R; Sheehan, Flynn; Sheehan, Maeve Kerrins; Shelton, Tellez, Carlos A; Terretta, John V; Tolomeo, Dana M; Topf, Craig Elliot; Silber, Elizabeth Margaret; Simitz, Tija Aleksandra; Regina; Torrez, Buster; Traphagen, Stephen; Tsilimigras, Kathy; Sims, Isaiah Marquise; Sklar, Hannah N; Sleuwen, Alessandra Van Duinen, Tracy M; Venhorst, Ryan R; Wade Jr, Leandrew; Christel; Smith, Kaelin N.p.; Sosa, Amanda Milagro; Sullivan, Walker-Qualls, Gwendolyn; Walton, Alisa K; Wangelin, Beth Julia Marie; Trinka, Maya D; Ubogy, Alec Joshua; Underhill, Anne; Warren, Patti B; Webster, James G; Weintraub, Jonathan; Grace Magdalene; Ungareth, Natalie; Unruh, Charles; Van Delft, Weisman, Neal H; Weisman, Nimmi; Williams, Tyrone W; Wirtz, Heather M; Van Dyke, Linda M; Vejcik, William Scott; Villalon, Kathleen Q; Wright, Paul N; Young Jr, William C; Young, Mary B Jocelyn; Voss, Hallie Matisse; Washington, Lazaria; Watson, Jada; Wegener, Alexa Joyce; Wegener, Nicole; Weinand, Dylan GROSS PAYMENT FOR NON-CERTIFICATED PERSONNEL S; White, Cameron Jordan; Willett, Katie; Willis, Dimitri; Winfrey, Salary Range: Less Than $25,000 Dazorona; Word, Felicia; Woulfe, Patrick; York, Kayla Shanita; Barajas, Armando M; Basso, Khalil; Battersby, Sylvia; Bayles, Young-Alia, Melody; Zucker, Rosaline Janet Chance; Bonaccorsi, Katherine; Borjas, Jaclyn B; Brooks, Salary Range: $25,000 - $39,999 Veronica T; Brookstein-Burke, Talia; Brown, Jaynita M; Buckles, Anthony, Loren M; Ballard, Deena; Carton, Christopher Owen; Kimberly; Buczrowski, Leo; Burnham, Eloise Avy; Butler, John; Cipparrone, Carolyn; Cobbins, Cassandra; Collins, Alethia; Cahill, Sarah; Castaneda, Edward Manuel; Cekander, Emily Corbett, Laura; Dickson, Elizabeth; Digioia, Donna M; Diodonet, Margaret; Chacon, Abigail; Childs, Dallas; Chizzo, Natalie Barbara A; Elmiger, Julie A; Erickson, Mary Beth; Giesenschlag, Avis; Cho, Catherine; Cho, Grace; Clark, Kelly; Clay, Cay Rebecca; Joyce, Kelly; Karels Jr, Richard; Kennedy, Frank J; A; Cobb, Chelsea Laurita; Coffman, Tim; Cole, Charles H; Krick, Alex C; Levin, Adam; Long, Phillip James; Love - Raglin, Colucci, Michael; Conley, Christen Corren; Connoly-Arce, Erica W; Mckenzie, Gwendolyn; Mcnichols, Shannon J; Meador, Estevan; Conrardy, Riley; Corotis, Kevin Robert; Corr, Angelina Donna M; Parker, Daniel L; Patterson, Gregory; Phelan, Michael B; Coughlin, Alyssa; Crawford, Courtnee Cymore; Crawford, L; Poro, Mary E; Raad, Bradley; Rogers, Deanna Marie; Ruiz, Delaney Amber; Cuneen, Devin Devore; Curtis, Kameron D; Angela; Sassone, Gina; Scholtens, Christopher; Short, Richard Davis, Valerie; Dike, Chidimma; Dinuzzo, Lorenzo; Dorian, Grace J; Smith, George; Spearman, Kim; Tomaino, Ann C; Wahlin, Diehl; Downey, Juliana Mei; Duffy, John K; Dunavan, Ella; Gayle R; Walksler, Annalise; Williamson, Kisha; Yorty, Natalie; Dunne, William Roarke; Durazo, Dali; Elmiger, Olivia Kathrine; Youngblood-Boone, Brittney Ernst, Rachelle; Evenson, Jack Wales; Failor, Braley Catherine; Fenwick, Donald S; Fisher, Jack Jared; Flowers-Mance, Andrea Salary Range: $40,000 - $59,999 A; Francis, Daniel Scott; Franklin, Daniel Boeldt; Frickx, Sarah Billingsley, Olivia; Brown, Melody J; Calderon, Gustavo A; C; Fromberg Jr, Daniel; Fuller, Isaiah Arrington; Gaines, Jeremy; Caliendo, Gianna M; Carter, Kejuan; Colletti, Ashley; Collins, Gallagher, Brian Edward; Gallagher, Nathan R; Galo, Caroline Donal F; Collins, Margaret M; Foley, Lori; Granzyk, Lynn; Hayes, Mary; Garcia, Mireya Victoria; Gardner, Mike; Gates, James A; Denice Parks; Korab, Diane M; Kremidas-Lumbereraz, Patricia Gill, Mavin Singh; Gonzalez, Ivan; Gonzalez, Mirian; GonzalezL; Lush, Lyneice M; Malhiot, Bryce R; Maxwell, Elizabeth; Stuver, Gabriela Isabel; Graham, Omar; Gravely, Ryan Nicole; Mcginnis, Nancy P; Mcgowan, Leila E; Mclaurin, Earliana; Meraz, Gross, Cameron Daron; Guarino, Natalie Consetta; Guerrier, Olivia; Nissen, Mary A; O’connor, Clare E; Ordman, Joseph J; Madeleine Marie; Hamilton, John Harrison; Hanna-Morrison, Pruitt, Barbara D; Reynolds, Shoneice L; Sandoval, Janine M; Serene; Harren, John; Hawkiins, Kayla H; Hennig, Adele Sarah; Sanfilippo, Vincent P; White, Tanya; Williams, Leonotis T Henry, Lena; Heyer, Abigail Z; Hoehne, Charles; Houston, Salary Range: $60,000 And Over Dericka; Huettel, Grace Elizabeth; Huettel, Timothy C; Huston, Boznos, Toula M; Carlin, Leah R; Cheney, Patricia A; Collins, Erik James; Hyman, Lauren E; Irving, Grace; Ivery, Paul; Jamroz, Deloris A; Dial, Dominique C; Evans, Lisa A; Gust, Carolyn; Harris, Maya Ingrid; Jeffries, Katrina Elizabeth; Johnson, Grace Keyona; Jones, Sarah G; Julious, Willa M; Karsten, Victoria; Kelley, Evelyn Andre J; Jackson, Latonia D; Kalmerton, Gail A; Martin, Amit; Martinez, Gabriela; Mazzulla, Gabriela; Paul, Janie Denise; Riles, R; Kelty, Caroline Rose; Kindler, Anna; Kipta, Richard Stanley; Andrea P; Sakellaris, Courtney A; Serrano, Le’anndra; Sidor, Klevgard, Charles; Kouris, James Steven; Larscheid, Judith; Latham, Kathryn; Lavery, Alexander Patrick; Lefevre, Michael J; Cynthia A; Thivel, Marilyn; Ury, Karen L; Vincent, Lisa M; Welter, Lenyoun, Martinez Steven; Lesiotis, Athena; Lindholm, Blake R; Lynette
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Wednesday Journal, November 21, 2018
OAKPARK.COM | RIVERFOREST.COM
O B I T U A R I E S
Honor Brennan, 86 Singer and artist
Honor Patricia Brennan (nee Petrie), 86, of River Forest, died peacefully on Oct. 12, 2018 surrounded by family. Affectionately known as Wookie, she grew up in the Woodlawn neighborhood, attended Holy Cross School, and graduated from Mercy High School in 1950. With Richard, her late husband of 65 years, she raised seven children in Oak Park and River Forest. Her passion for music began early. She sang in church and other choirs as a young child and throughout high school, gaining recognition as a talented alto soloist. She studied music theory at Triton College and HONOR BRENNAN trained in voice under Ione Root. With the Chicago Irish Musicians in the 1950s and ’60s, she sang frequently on Tom McNamara’s Irish Radio Hour from Hanley’s House of Happiness. She and Richard also sang together with the Irish Heritage Singers for many years. As an artist, she continually promoted and supported involvement in the arts, including with the Austin Fine Arts Academy and as treasurer of the Chicago Artists Association. As a mother of three in the 1950s, she worked at Time Magazine while Richard attended the University of Chicago. As her family grew, she welcomed many of her children’s friends into the heart of their home. She will be remembered for her beautiful voice and her passion for gardening. Many family members and neighbors who exchanged plants with her marveled at her extensive — and self-taught — knowledge of horticulture. Honor Brennan is survived by her children, Richard, Sean, Timothy (Terrence Gilles), Christopher (Sabrina), Patrick (Nora), Daniel (Nancy) and Catherine (Robert) Millette; 16 grandchildren and two great-
grandchildren; and her many nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her husband, Richard; her parents, George and Honor Petrie; and her brothers, Jack, Thomas and Donald. Visitation will be held on Friday, Nov. 30 at 10 a.m., at St. Luke Church, 528 Lathrop Ave. in River Forest and Mass will follow at 11 a.m., with private interment on Saturday, Dec. 1 at Mt. Olivet Cemetery. The family appreciates memorial donations to Seasons Hospice.
Christine Douglass, 73
Music and word weaver Christine Charlotte Douglass, 73, of Northampton, died on Oct. 31, 2018, in Bay State Medical Center, Springfield. Born on May 14, 1945, in Chicago, she was the third of five children of Benjamin and Elizabeth Douglass and grew up in Oak Park. She earned a degree in biology from the University of Michigan and arrived in Western Massachusetts soon after. She lived in Worthington then moved to Northampton where she lived for the past 32 years. She worked in a number of fields, most of them related to health care, which best reflected her desire to care for people of all stripes and share her warmth and attention. An avid weaver, she was a lover of music and the English language. In middle age, she resumed her childhood pursuit of the cello, which she enjoyed playing in small local ensembles and with friends. She also sang in the Hampshire Choral Society for the past several decades. Her love of literature was complemented by a loving insistence on grammatical precision inherited from her mother. She will be best remembered for her kindness and generosity of spirit. While she did not practice the religion of her childhood, she had a truly spiritual nature. The greatest joy of her later years was the birth of granddaughters, Charlotte and Catherine, with whom she spent as much time as she could in Northampton and in their home in New
Robert P. Gamboney Funeral Director
York City. Just weeks before her passing, she finished construction on a treehouse and playset so they would always feel like “Nai Nai’s house” was a second home to them. Christine Douglass leaves behind a son, Matthew McGuire; his wife, Mingke Wang; their daughters, Charlotte and Catherine; her siblings, Catherine Douglass, Constance Harvard and Bruce Douglass; her former partner, James McGuire; many nieces and nephews; a universe of friends; and her beloved dachshunds and cats. In addition to her parents, she was predeceased by a brother, Benjamin Jr. She was an organ donor and her remains will be cremated and her ashes spread in private ceremonies at places of significance to her and her family in Massachusetts and Michigan. The family appreciates memorial donations to the Dakin Humane Society, 163 Montague Road, Leverett, MA 01054. Alternatively, friends and loved ones may honor her life by caring for one another, being kind to animals and those in need, and promoting harmony and peace in the world.
Paul Gresik, 64
Helped those facing addiction Paul Michael Gresik, 64, formerly of Oak Park, died peacefully on Nov. 15, 2018, surrounded by family, friends, and the music of his favorite band, the Grateful Dead. On Friday night, on less than 24 hours’ notice, a crowd of 50-60 people who loved him crowded around the bar at Goldyburgers in Forest Park to fondly remember and toast a man they recalled as “a good and gentle soul.” Paul asked that he be remembered by something he shared with his son: “Life is about the journey, not the destination — enjoy the ride!” Paul Gresik was the father of Jamie; the son of the late Paul and Jean Gresik; the brother of Pamela (John) Eggum, James (Virginia) and Frank (Maribeth); cousin of many; uncle adored by his nieces and nephews; friend to many; and devoted sponsor to numerous people who needed a little help facing the challenges of addiction.
Drechsler, Brown & Williams
Services will be private. In lieu of flowers, please send donations on his behalf to the Suburban Fellowship Club, 7438 Harrison St., Forest Park 60130.
John Lubben, 54
John E. Lubben, 54, of Bloomington, formerly of Oak Park, died suddenly on Nov. 6, 2018. He was the father of Nichole and Jaymee Lubben, brother of Mike J. and Lucy (Steve) Cielocha; and the uncle of many nieces and nephews. JOHN LUBBEN Services have been held, with burial at Forest Home Cemetery. May he rest in peace.
Roy Kruse, 77 Architect and avid sailor
Roy Hans Kruse, 77, renowned Chicago architect passed died on Nov. 13, 2018. An Eagle Scout and graduate of IIT, he was a mentor to young architects. He was an avid sailor and commodore of the Chicago Corinthian Yacht Club. An art ROY KRUSE and Symphony enthusiast, he was also a history buff and the best family handyman. A truly wonderful man, he was dearly loved. Roy Kruse was the husband of Marie, the father of Matthew Kruse, Jennifer Kruse, and Amy (Scott) Nixon; Grandpa of Rose, Claire and Jack Flanigan, Aidan and Annie Kruse and Benjamin and Emily Nixon; brother of Elaine Aicher; and uncle to 12 nieces and nephews. A memorial visitation was held on Nov. 17 at Drechsler, Brown & Williams Funeral Home. A memorial service was held Nov. 18 at United Lutheran Church, Oak Park. In lieu of flowers, donations to WTTW, Habitat for Humanity, and/or Unity Temple Restoration Foundation may be made in Roy’s name.
Funeral Home
Since 1880
I am there for you in your time of need. All services handled with dignity and personalized care.
Family Owned & Operated
Cell: 708.420.5108 • Res: 708.848.5667
Charles Williams, Owner/Funeral Director
I am affiliated with Peterson-Bassi Chapels at 6938 W. North Ave, as well as other chapels throughout Chicagoland.
203 S. Marion St. Oak Park 60302 708/383-3191
W E D N E S D A Y
JOURNAL of Oak Park and River Forest
To run an obituary Please contact Ken Trainor by e-mail: ktrainor@wjinc.com, or fax: 708/467-9066 before Monday at noon. Please include a photo if possible.
Wednesday Journal, November 21, 2018
OAKPARK.COM | RIVERFOREST.COM New local ads this week
WEDNESDAY
CLASSIFIED
YOUR WEEKLY AD
REACHES SIX SUBURBAN COMMUNITIES: OAK PARK, RIVER FOREST, FOREST PARK, BROOKFIELD, RIVERSIDE, NORTH RIVERSIDE, AND PARTS OF CHICAGO
49
HOURS: 9:00 A.M.– 5:00 P.M. MON–FRI
Deadline is Tuesday at 9:30 a.m.
Please Check Your Ad: The publisher will not be responsible for more than one incorrect insertion. Wednesday Journal Classified must be notified before the second insertion. The newspaper reserves the right to edit or reject any advertisement.
Place your ad online anytime at: www.OakPark.com/ClassiďŹ ed/
BY PHONE: (708) 613-3333 | BY FAX: (708) 467-9066 | BY E-MAIL: CLASSIFIEDS@OAKPARK.COM | CLASSIFIEDS@RIVERFOREST.COM HELP WANTED
HELP WANTED
Business Information Developer Advisor sought by Anthem Inc. in Chicago, IL to program processes & set up data for advanced analytic capabilities. Apply at www.jobpostingtoday.com, ref #96408.
POLICE RECORDS CLERK The Village of Oak Park is seeking qualified candidates for the position of Police Records Clerk in the Police Department. This position will perform a wide variety of specialized clerical duties in support of the Police Department including processing and maintaining documents, correspondence and coding reports; and to provide information and assistance to the public. Applicants are encouraged to visit the Village of Oak Park’s website at http:// www.oak-park.us/jobs. Interested and qualified applicants must complete a Village of Oak Park application no later than December 10, 2018.
COMMUNITY RELATIONS INTERN The Village of Oak Park is seeking qualified candidates for the position of Community Relations Intern in the Community Relations Department. This is a seasonal position will provide assistance to the Community Relations Department provides intake and referral services for residents to community resources, assists in investigations of landlord/ tenant complaints, etc. Applicants are encouraged to visit the Village of Oak Park’s website http:// www.oakpark.us/. Interested and qualified applicants must complete a Village of Oak Park application no later than December 10, 2018. Data Engineers sought by Grubhub Holdings, Inc. in Chicago, IL to develop proofs of concept for data solutions and design production platforms to support data warehousing. Apply at jobpostingtoday.com ref # 58223. ELECTRICIAN’S HELPER PART-TIME Part-time Electrician’s Helper. Must have own transportation. Call for more info 708-738-3848. OFFICE CLEANING Part time janitorial position. Must have car. North suburbs. Must pass background check. Call 773-680-0329
SUBURBAN REAL ESTATE
SUBURBAN RENTALS
OFFICE SPACE FOR RENT
FOREST PARK LOFT STYLE APT 2nd floor of 2-flat w/ laundry room. Walk-in closets & pantry. Heat, parking & gas incl. Close to transportation. Avail. Dec. 1. $1000 plus security. Call Henry 708-436-3644.
OAK PARK OFFICE SPACE Private office (approx. 100 sf) for lease at 1100 Lake Street, Oak Park. Includes high speed Wi-Fi; coffee, tea and water service; nightly cleaning; corporate-style conference room; reception area; desk & chair. Parking in attached garage (with covered access to building) is free for first 1.5 hours or purchase monthly pass from VOP. $375/ month. Includes heat, AC, electric. Available now. Call 708-432-5703. For pictures and more info, search “6753184183� on Craigslist.
OAK PARK 3BR 519 N HUMPRHEY 2nd floor of 2-flat. Hardwood floors throughout. Parking avail. Laundry next door. Month to Month. $1390 per month. Call 312-927-4725. OAK PARK SMALL 1 BR Downtown Oak Park. Hardwood floors throughout. All utilities included. $800 per month. Call 708-657-4226.
CITY RENTALS
CEMETERY LOTS FOR SALE CONCORDIA CEMETERY Two lots near entrance in Concordia Cemetery in Forest Park. $1600 for both, or best offer. Email: russ.home@gmail.com
NEW CONCEPT FOR MAYWOOD
3BR 1.5 BA APARTMENT 2nd floor. Jackson & Lockwood area. Close to transportation. Available December 1. $1500. Call 773-540-3459.
902 S. 3RD AVENUE
2BR APT FOR RENT First floor apartment near Central & Congress. No stove or refrig. Tenant pays heat & electricity. $900 plus 1 month security. 773-287-1981 or 773-320-3402
WANTED MILITARY ITEMS: Helmets, medals, patches, uniforms, weapons, flags, photos, paperwork, Also toy soldiers – lead, plastic – other misc. toys. Call Uncle Gary 708-522-3400
ROOMS FOR RENT
TO BE GIVEN AWAY
In this quiet residential neighborhood (2 blks W of 1st Ave & 1 blk N of Madison)
Reserve your own affordable 2 or 3 BR condo unit of 1000+ sq ft of living space being built on this historic site. You’ll benefit from a unique 12 year tax freeze and lower monthly living expenses from energy saving systems/appliances, and you can help design your own individual unit. Plans also include building 5 new townhomes onsite. For details Call 708-383-9223.
SUBURBAN RENTALS
M&M
property management, inc.
708-386-7355 • www.mmpropmgt.com 649 Madison Street, Oak Park Contact us for a complete list of available rentals throughout Oak Park and Forest Park.
Apartment listings updated daily at:
Find your new apartment this Saturday from 10 am – 4pm at 35 Chicago Avenue. Or call us toll free at 1-888-328-8457 for an appointment.
AUSTIN CLEAN ROOM With fridge, micro. Nr Oak Park, Super Walmart, Food 4 Less, bus, & Metra. $116/wk and up. 773-637-5957 Large Sunny Room with fridge & microwave. Near Green line, bus, Oak Park, 24 hour desk, parking lot. $101.00 week & up. New Mgmt. 773-378-8888
OFFICE SPACE FOR RENT AUSTIN Clean small office in nonprofit community center. Near Green Line & CTA bus. Other amenities. $475 plus 1 month security & credit check. 773-887-4317
Selling your home by owner? Advertise in Wednesday Classified! Call: 708-613-3342
WANTED TO BUY
PRO FORM TREADMILL Complete with instruction book. Yours to haul away! 708-771-9670
NOVENAS PRAYER TO ST. JUDE May the Sacred Heart of Jesus be adored, glorified, loved & preserved throughout the world now & forever. Sacred heart of Jesus, pray for us. St. Jude worker of miracles, pray for us. St. Jude helper of the hopeless pray for us. Say this prayer 9 times a day for 9 days. By the 8th day your prayer will be answered. It has never been known to fail. Publication must be promised. Thank you Jesus. Thank you St. Jude. R.B. NOVENA PRAYER TO THE BLESSED VIRGIN (NEVER KNOWN TO FAIL) OH, MOST BEAUTIFUL flower of Mt. Carmel, fruitful vine, splendor ofheaven, Blessed Mother of the Son of God, Immaculate Virgin, assist me in my necessity. Oh, Star of the Sea, help me and show me, herein you are my mother. Oh, Holy Mary, Mother of God, Queen of Heaven and Earth. I humbly beseech you from the bottom of my heart to succor in my necessity (make request). There are none that can withstand your power. Oh, show me herein you are my mother. Oh, Mary, conceived without sin, pray for us who have recourse to thee (3 times). Holy Mary, I place this prayer in your hands (3 times). Say this prayer for three consecutive days and publish; your request will be granted. RB.
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New hardwood flooring installation & pergo. Sanding, re-finishing, staining. Low prices, insured. Call: 773-671-4996 www.klisflooring.com
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All of us at Wednesday ClassiďŹ ed wish you a Happy and Warm Thanksgiving!
50
Wednesday Journal, November 21, 2018
CLASSIFIED
OAKPARK.COM | RIVERFOREST.COM
(708) 613-3333 • FAX: (708) 467-9066 • E-MAIL: CLASSIFIEDS@OAKPARK.COM | CLASSIFIEDS@RIVERFOREST.COM
Let the sun shine in...
Public Notice: Your right to know
In print • Online • Available to you 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, every day of the year OakPark.com | RiverForest.com | PublicNoticeIllinois.com PLUMBING
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BROKEN SASH CORDS? CALL THE WINDOW MAN!
FAST RELIABLE SERVICE
(708) 452-8929
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PUBLIC NOTICES
Insured
Ralph Grande Elmwood Park 708-452-8929
Serving Oak Park, River Forest, Forest Park & Riverside Since 1974
PUBLIC NOTICES PUBLIC NOTICE Notice is hereby given, pursuant to “An Act in relation to the use of an Assumed Business Name in the conduct or transaction of Business in the State,� as amended, that a certification was registered by the undersigned with the County Clerk of Cook County. Registration Number: D18155807 on October 30, 2018. Under the Assumed Business Name of GBG CONSULTING with the business located at: 1193 S GROVE AVE UNIT #8, OAK PARK, IL 60304. The true and real full name(s) and residence address of the owner(s)/partner(s) is: JESSICA PICKENS 1193 S GROVE AVE UNIT #8 OAK PARK, IL 60304. Published in Wednesday Journal 11/7, 11/14, 11/21/2018
Lost & Found and To Be Given Away ads run free in Wednesday Classified. Call 708613-3342
NOTICE is hereby given that the Village of Brookfield Planning and Zoning Commission will conduct a public hearing on Thursday, December 13, 2018 at 7:00 p.m. in the Edward Barcal Hall located at 8820 Brookfield Avenue, Brookfield, Illinois to hear the application of the Village of Brookfield which is seeking certain text amendments to the allowed uses set forth in Section 62.30 entitled “Other Use Category� of Article I entitled “In General� of Chapter 62 entitled “Zoning� of the Village Code of Brookfield, Illinois to prohibit certain uses. The public is invited to attend the public hearing and present oral and/or written comments. The application may be viewed at the Village of Brookfield Village Hall during normal business hours. Written comments may be provided prior to the public hearing to: Village of Brookfield, Planning and Zoning Commission c/o Nicholas Greifer, 8820 Brookfield Avenue, Brookfield, IL 60513. Individuals with disabilities requiring a reasonable accommodation in order to participate in any meeting should contact the Village of Brookfield (708) 485-7344 prior to the meeting. Wheelchair access is available through the front (South) entrance of Village Hall. By Order of Chuck Grund, Planning and Zoning Commission Chairman. Published in RB Landmark 11/21/2018
REAL ESTATE FOR SALE
REAL ESTATE FOR SALE
REAL ESTATE FOR SALE
REAL ESTATE FOR SALE
REAL ESTATE FOR SALE
IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF COOK COUNTY, ILLINOIS COUNTY DEPARTMENT– CHANCERY DIVISION NATIONSTAR MORTGAGE LLC D/ B/A MR. COOPER Plaintiff, -v.CAROL L. GAUGER A/K/A CAROL LYNN GAUGER Defendants 18 CH 6328 1034 LATHROP AVENUE Forest Park, IL 60130 NOTICE OF SALE PUBLIC NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale entered in the above cause on September 12, 2018, an agent for The Judicial Sales Corporation, will at 10:30 AM on December 21, 2018, at The Judicial Sales Corporation, One South Wacker Drive, CHICAGO, IL, 60606, sell at public auction to the highest bidder, as set forth below, the following described real estate: Commonly known as 1034 LATHROP AVENUE, Forest Park, IL 60130 Property Index No. 15-13-416-0160000. The real estate is improved with a multi-family residence. The judgment amount was $187,806.48. 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 Certificate of Sale that will entitle the purchaser to a deed to the real estate after confirmation of the sale. The property will NOT be open for inspection and plaintiff makes no representation as to the condition of the property. Prospective bidders are admonished to check the court file to verify all information. If this property is a condominium unit, the purchaser of the unit at the foreclosure sale, other than a mortgagee, shall pay the assessments and the legal fees required by The Condominium Property Act, 765 ILCS 605/9(g)(1) and (g)(4). If this property is a condominium unit which is part of a common interest community, the purchaser of the unit at the foreclosure sale
other than a mortgagee shall pay the assessments required by The Condominium Property Act, 765 ILCS 605/ 18.5(g-1). IF YOU ARE THE MORTGAGOR (HOMEOWNER), YOU HAVE THE RIGHT TO REMAIN IN POSSESSION FOR 30 DAYS AFTER ENTRY OF AN ORDER OF POSSESSION, IN ACCORDANCE WITH SECTION 15-1701(C) OF THE ILLINOIS MORTGAGE FORECLOSURE LAW. You will need a photo identification issued by a government agency (driver’s license, passport, etc.) in order to gain entry into our building and the foreclosure sale room in Cook County and the same identification for sales held at other county venues where The Judicial Sales Corporation conducts foreclosure sales. For information, contact The sales clerk, SHAPIRO KREISMAN & ASSOCIATES, LLC, 2121 WAUKEGAN RD., SUITE 301, Bannockburn, IL 60015, (847) 2911717 For information call between the hours of 1pm–3pm. Please refer to file number 18-086592. THE JUDICIAL SALES CORPORATION One South Wacker Drive, 24th Floor, Chicago, IL 60606-4650 (312) 236-SALE You can also visit The Judicial Sales Corporation at www.tjsc.com for a 7 day status report of pending sales. SHAPIRO KREISMAN & ASSOCIATES, LLC 2121 WAUKEGAN RD., SUITE 301 Bannockburn, IL 60015 (847) 291-1717 E-Mail: ILNotices@logs.com Attorney File No. 18-086592 Attorney Code. 42168 Case Number: 18 CH 6328 TJSC#: 38-7574 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. I3103811
CERTIFICATES, SERIES 2005-1 Plaintiff, -v.ELIZABETH L. PURNELL, KENNETH PURNELL JR. A/K/A KENNETH PURNELL, STATE OF ILLINOIS, CITY OF CHICAGO Defendants 14 CH 000292 110 S. HUMPHREY AVENUE OAK PARK, IL 60302 NOTICE OF SALE PUBLIC NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale entered in the above cause on November 2, 2015, an agent for The Judicial Sales Corporation, will at 10:30 AM on December 10, 2018, at The Judicial Sales Corporation, One South Wacker Drive, CHICAGO, IL, 60606, sell at public auction to the highest bidder, as set forth below, the following described real estate: Commonly known as 110 S. HUMPHREY AVENUE, OAK PARK, IL 60302 Property Index No. 16-08-305-0030000. The real estate is improved with a single family residence. Sale terms: 25% down of the highest bid by certified funds at the close of the sale payable to The Judicial Sales Corporation. No third party checks will be accepted. The balance 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 Certificate of Sale that will entitle the purchaser to a deed to the real estate after confirmation of the sale.
The property will NOT be open for inspection and plaintiff makes no representation as to the condition of the property. Prospective bidders are admonished to check the court file to verify all information. If this property is a condominium unit, the purchaser of the unit at the foreclosure sale, other than a mortgagee, shall pay the assessments and the legal fees required by The Condominium Property Act, 765 ILCS 605/9(g)(1) and (g)(4). If this property is a condominium unit which is part of a common interest community, the purchaser of the unit at the foreclosure sale other than a mortgagee shall pay the assessments required by The Condominium Property Act, 765 ILCS 605/ 18.5(g-1). IF YOU ARE THE MORTGAGOR (HOMEOWNER), YOU HAVE THE RIGHT TO REMAIN IN POSSESSION FOR 30 DAYS AFTER ENTRY OF AN ORDER OF POSSESSION, IN ACCORDANCE WITH SECTION 15-1701(C) OF THE ILLINOIS MORTGAGE FORECLOSURE LAW. You will need a photo identification issued by a government agency (driver’s license, passport, etc.) in order to gain entry into our building and the foreclosure sale room in Cook County and the same identification for sales held at other county venues where The Judicial Sales Corporation conducts foreclosure sales. For information, examine the court file or contact Plaintiff’s attorney: CODILIS & ASSOCIATES, P.C., 15W030 NORTH FRONTAGE ROAD, SUITE 100, BURR RIDGE, IL 60527, (630) 794-9876 Please refer to file number 14-13-22714. THE JUDICIAL SALES CORPORATION One South Wacker Drive, 24th Floor, Chicago, IL 60606-4650 (312) 236-SALE You can also visit The Judicial Sales Corporation at www.tjsc.com for a 7 day status report of pending sales.
CODILIS & ASSOCIATES, P.C. 15W030 NORTH FRONTAGE ROAD, SUITE 100 BURR RIDGE, IL 60527 (630) 794-5300 E-Mail: pleadings@il.cslegal.com Attorney File No. 14-13-22714 Attorney ARDC No. 00468002 Attorney Code. 21762 Case Number: 14 CH 000292 TJSC#: 38-8752 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. I3104027
Starting a new business? Call the experts before you place your legal ad! Publish Your Assumed Name Legal Notice in • Wednesday Journal • Forest Park Review • Riverside Brookfield Landmark • Austin Weekly News • Village Free Press Call 708/613-3342 to advertise.
IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF COOK COUNTY, ILLINOIS COUNTY DEPARTMENT– CHANCERY DIVISION U.S. BANK NATIONAL ASSOCIATION AS TRUSTEE SUCCESSOR IN INTEREST TO WILMINGTON TRUST COMPANY, AS TRUSTEE, SUCCESSOR IN INTEREST TO BANK OF AMERICA, NATIONAL ASSOCIATION AS TRUSTEE, SUCCESSOR BY MERGER TO LASALLE BANK NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, AS TRUSTEE FOR STRUCTURED ASSET INVESTMENT LOAN TRUST MORTGAGE PASS-THROUGH
IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF COOK COUNTY, ILLINOIS COUNTY DEPARTMENT– CHANCERY DIVISION WILMINGTON SAVINGS FUND SOCIETY, FSB, D/B/A CHRISTIANA TRUST, NOT INDIVIDUALLY BUT AS TRUSTEE FOR PRETIUM MORTGAGE ACQUISITION TRUST Plaintiff, -v.UNKNOWN HEIRS AND DEVISEES OF SANDRA OLIVA, DECEASED, UNKNOWN CLAIMANTS AND LIENHOLDERS AGAINST THE ESTATE OF SANDRA OLIVA, DECEASED, UNKNOWN CLAIMANTS AND LIENHOLDERS AGAINST THE UNKNOWN HEIRS AND DEVISEES OF SANDRA OLIVA, DECEASED, JOHN SNAKENBORG, ALEXANDRA OLIVA, UNIVERSAL RESTORATION SERVICES, ADAMS MANOR CONDOMINIUM ASSOCIATION, GERALD P. NORDGREN, AS SPECIAL REPRESENTATIVE OF SANDRA OLIVA, DECEASED Defendants 17 CH 07790 7200 ADAMS STREET, UNIT 4 FOREST PARK, IL 60130 NOTICE OF SALE
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WANTED TO BUY FREON R12 WANTED: CERTIFIED BUYER will PAY CA$H for R12 cylinders or cases of cans. (312) 291-9169; www.refrigerantfinders.com
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Wednesday Journal, November 21, 2018
OAKPARK.COM | RIVERFOREST.COM
CLASSIFIED
51
(708) 613-3333 • FAX: (708) 467-9066 • E-MAIL: CLASSIFIEDS@OAKPARK.COM | CLASSIFIEDS@RIVERFOREST.COM
Let the sun shine in...
Public Notice: Your right to know
In print • Online • Available to you 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, every day of the year OakPark.com | RiverForest.com | PublicNoticeIllinois.com
local employees, happy employees!
MORTGAGE DIRECTORY REAL ESTATE REAL ESTATE FOR SALE FOR SALE
REAL ESTATE FOR SALE
MORTGAGE RATE DIRECTORY LENDER COMMUNITY BANK OF OAK PARK - RIVER FOREST
(708) 660-7006 1001 Lake St., Oak Park IL 60301 www.cboprf.com
AMOUNT
RATE/YR
80% 80% 80% 80% 80% 80%
4.875% / 30 yr. fixed 4.750% / 20 yr. fixed 4.375% / 15 yr. fixed 4.750% / 5 yr. ARM 4.750% / 7 yr. ARM 4.875% / 10 yr. ARM
POINTS/ APP. FEE 0%/$550 0%/$550 0%/$550 0%/$550 0%/$550 0%/$550
A.P.R.
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Mortgage rates are accurate as of Monday afternoon. Due to the fluctuation of mortgage rates, the rates may vary before publication. Contact your mortgage lender for complete details. Mortgage rates vary in APR and other qualifying factors.
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REAL ESTATE FOR SALE
REAL ESTATE FOR SALE
REAL ESTATE FOR SALE
REAL ESTATE FOR SALE
PUBLIC NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale entered in the above cause on October 2, 2018, an agent for The Judicial Sales Corporation, will at 10:30 AM on January 3, 2019, at The Judicial Sales Corporation, One South Wacker Drive, CHICAGO, IL, 60606, sell at public auction to the highest bidder, as set forth below, the following described real estate: Commonly known as 7200 ADAMS STREET, UNIT 4, FOREST PARK, IL 60130 Property Index No. 15-13-215-0171004 fka 15-13-215-001-0000. The real estate is improved with a residential condominium. The judgment amount was $183,076.24. 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 Certificate of Sale that will entitle
the purchaser to a deed to the real estate after confirmation of the sale. The property will NOT be open for inspection and plaintiff makes no representation as to the condition of the property. Prospective bidders are admonished to check the court file to verify all information. If this property is a condominium unit, the purchaser of the unit at the foreclosure sale, other than a mortgagee, shall pay the assessments and the legal fees required by The Condominium Property Act, 765 ILCS 605/9(g)(1) and (g)(4). If this property is a condominium unit which is part of a common interest community, the purchaser of the unit at the foreclosure sale other than a mortgagee shall pay the assessments required by The Condominium Property Act, 765 ILCS 605/ 18.5(g-1). IF YOU ARE THE MORTGAGOR (HOMEOWNER), YOU HAVE THE RIGHT TO REMAIN IN POSSESSION FOR 30 DAYS AFTER ENTRY OF AN ORDER OF POSSESSION, IN ACCORDANCE WITH SECTION 15-1701(C) OF THE ILLINOIS MORTGAGE FORECLOSURE LAW. You will need a photo identification issued by a government agency (driver’s license, passport, etc.) in order to gain entry into our building and the foreclosure sale room in Cook County and the same identification for sales held at other county venues where The Judicial Sales Corporation conducts foreclosure sales.
For information, contact Plaintiff’s attorney: HEAVNER, BEYERS & MIHLAR, LLC, 111 East Main Street, DECATUR, IL 62523, (217) 422-1719 Please refer to file number 616060918. If the sale is not confirmed for any reason, the Purchaser at the sale shall be entitled only to a return of the purchase price paid. The Purchaser shall have no further recourse against the Mortgagor, the Mortgagee or the Mortgagee’s attorney. THE JUDICIAL SALES CORPORATION One South Wacker Drive, 24th Floor, Chicago, IL 60606-4650 (312) 236-SALE You can also visit The Judicial Sales Corporation at www.tjsc.com for a 7 day status report of pending sales. HEAVNER, BEYERS & MIHLAR, LLC 111 East Main Street DECATUR, IL 62523 (217) 422-1719 Fax #: (217) 422-1754 CookPleadings@hsbattys.com Attorney File No. 616060918 Attorney Code. 40387 Case Number: 17 CH 07790 TJSC#: 38-7966 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. I3102238
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 informedthat 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. WEDNESDAY JOURNAL Forest Park Review, Landmark
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Wednesday Journal, November 21, 2018
OAKPARK.COM | RIVERFOREST.COM
Ungaretti gets last laps at state OPRF senior takes fourth in 50 and 100 freestyle finals, UT next By MARTY FARMER Sports Editor
It’s official. The Oak Park and River Forest Huskies’ loss is the Tennessee Volunteers’ gain. OPRF senior swimmer Natalie Ungaretti, who has committed to UT, closed out her remarkable high school swimming career with a pair of fourth-place finishes at the 2018 IHSA Swimming & Diving Championships, hosted by Evanston High School on Saturday, Nov. 17. Ungaretti placed fourth in both the 50yard freestyle (23.09 seconds) and 100-yard freestyle (50.50 seconds). She accounted for all 22 points for OPRF, which came in 15th place in the team standings. “I’m happy with how I did,” Ungaretti said. “I’m so proud of the team and all of my friends who swam so well.” The Huskies also had a pair of relay teams compete at state. The 200-yard freestyle quartet of junior Sara Segal, freshman Teagan Osga, senior Emma Wojack and Ungaretti recorded a time of 1 minute, 37.68 seconds to earn 21st during Friday’s preliminary races. In the 400-yard freestyle prelims, the same group came in 19th at 3:35.43.
Ungaretti has a history of excellence at the state finals. During her sophomore year, Ungaretti and the Huskies turned in a historic showing in 2016. She became only the third OPRF girl (joining Kate Wendt and Marissa Lumkes) to win an individual state title when she captured the 50 free with a time of 23.31 at Evanston. Ungaretti also was runner-up in the 100 free (50.90). In the relays at that state meet, Ungaretti teamed with Hanna Blankemeier, Alex Gill and Samm Neilson in the 200-yard medley, posting a time of 1:43.94 to become just the third relay team in program history to win a championship. Ungaretti also anchored the Huskies’ 200 free relay, which notched fifth (1:35.94) in the state. Ungaretti recorded her fastest times at state as a junior. She finished third in the 50 free (23.06) and fourth in the 100 free (50.34) in a pair of exceptionally fast races. About a third of the way through her senior year, only memories remain now for Ungaretti — at least in the pool. “It’s hard to believe that it’s over,” she said. “I feel like just yesterday I was going to my first tryouts as a freshman. One thing I’ve learned is how to be part of a team that supports each
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OPRF senior Natalie Ungaretti will graduate as one of the best swimmers in school history. other. I don’t think I would ever have been able to find the success I’ve had the past four years without my teammates by my side.” Her next challenge is to make a splash in football mad Southeastern Conference
country. “I am beyond excited,” Ungaretti said about Tennessee. “I know it’s going to be an amazing time with great coaches and a supportive team.”
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Wednesday Journal, November 21, 2018
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OPRF girls on a fast track
Led by Spencer and Sanchez, up-tempo Huskies hope to stay healthy By MARTY FARMER Sports Editor
For the past several seasons, injuries have been a bugaboo for the Oak Park and River Forest High School girls basketball team. Nevertheless, seniors Maeve Nelson, Amaya Coleman and Joi Holman led the Huskies to a 15-16 record and a fourth-place showing in the West Suburban Conference Silver Division last season Head coach J.P. Coughlin may want to knock on some basketball hardwood, but the Huskies finally appear healthy entering this season. Seniors Darsé Sanchez and Katie Sisler are back after dealing with injuries. Sanchez tore an ACL last year and Sisler has been injured the majority of her varsity career. “Darsé is healthy and ready for a big season,” Coughlin said. “It’s great to have Katie in the lineup. She has a solid 3-point stroke and is the best defender on our team.” Along with Sanchez, who averaged 19 points per game before her injury, senior Ahsha Spencer (13 points per game in 2017) provides scoring, plus everything else. Spencer led the Huskies in points, rebounds, assists, steals and blocks last season. “Ahsha and Darsé are going to be steals for some mid-major D1 or D2 college program,” Coughlin said. “They are two of the best guards in the area.”
Tatym Coe, who led the sophomore team in scoring last season, is a good shooter with a quick release. Coughlin is excited about the potential of freshman Lilah Gery. “Lilah can do everything,” he said. “She has a good shot and solid handle. We’re expecting big things from her leading our second unit.” Senior Faith Smith and juniors Karly Cantrell and Alia Anderson will contribute this season as well. “Faith has had some big games for us,” Coughlin said. “Karly hustles, rebounds and plays good defense. Alia is a guard who can shoot and is very effective going to the rim.” Aside from health, the Huskies’ “small ball” style of play will be the other narrative to monitor this winter. “We are very guard-oriented. We will play four or five guards at all times,” Coughlin said. “We press and play very fast. We need to improve our team rebounding and be committed to pressing and trapping.” Defending conference champion Glenbard West has a good chance to repeat; however, Downers Grove North, Lyons Township and OPRF could challenge the Hilltoppers for the title. OPRF will be tested in and out of conference. Along with the rigors of West Suburban Silver play, the Huskies will face excellent teams like Nazareth, New Trier and Proviso East plus local rivals Fenwick and Trinity in nonconference action. OPRF also competes annually in the Montini Christ-
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OPRF senior Ahsha Spencer led the Huskies statistically in five categories last season. mas tourney, one of the premier holiday tournaments in the Midwest. The Huskies (2-0) are off to a fast start with convincing wins over Lane Tech 80-61 and St. Edward 65-45.
OPRF
Built to win from page 56 to make more history. OPRF returns four seniors who have attracted recruiting interest from Division I and II college basketball programs. Over the past two years, the seniors have won 47 games with a cumulative 25-1 record in the West Suburban Silver. All-conference players Dashon Enoch, Chase Robinson and Anthony Roberts will lead OPRF this season. Enoch (12 points, 2.5 assists, 1.5 steals per game in 2017) is an effective combo guard with great athleticism. He’s also an excellent defensive player with multiple years of varsity experience. Robinson, a transfer from Marist last year, and Roberts emerged last season as key contributors. Robinson (11 ppg, 5 rpg, 3 apg) and Roberts (10 ppg, 5 rpg, 1.5 spg) are not only stat-sheet stuffers, but bring strong intangibles like toughness and competitiveness to the lineup. Charlie Hoehne, a returning honorable mention all-conference player, averaged nine points and five rebounds last season. He has signed with Rockhurst University in Kansas City. The Hawks are a perennial power in Division II basketball.
File photo
Senior Charlie Hoehne has size and versatility. He signed with Rockhurst University. As if having four versatile veterans isn’t enough cause for optimism, the Huskies have several other players primed to make significant contributions. Sophomores Isaiah Barnes and Josh Smith have considerable upside. The 6-foot-6 Barnes (younger brother of former OPRF star Daniel Barnes) already has five Division I offers. At 6-foot-3, Barnes led the
sophomore squad in scoring last season. At 6-7, junior Justin Cross combines skills, size, and length. Senior guards Langston Robinson and Dan Francis bolster the backcourt. “These five guys will add length, versatility and depth to an already talented and senior-laden squad,” OPRF coach Matt Maloney said. “We will have depth, versatility, skilled size and tremendous guard play, but
we will need to improve.” With a rotation of players perfectly suited for their style of play, expect OPRF to fulfill its signature “Huskie Havoc.” The approach features a variety of high-intensity defensive looks designed to force opponents into turnovers and create transition scoring opportunities for OPRF. While the Huskies prefer a faster pace, they are capable of executing in either the half court or on the fast break. “We are going to be pushing pace all game,” Maloney said. “We have to be able to dictate the tempo while playing smart and under control.” OPRF is the prohibitive favorite to repeat as conference champs, but West Suburban Silver games are typically a grind with so many well-prepared teams and coaches. Look for York and Downers Grove North as the top contenders to dethrone the Huskies, with Lyons Township, Glenbard West, Hinsdale Central and Proviso West vying for conference positioning as well. The Huskies open the season at the Riverside-Brookfield Thanksgiving Classic (Nov. 20-24). Other notable games include Fenwick in the Chicago Elite Classic (Nov. 30) at Wintrust Arena, at St. Patrick (Dec. 31), and at home against Evanston (Feb. 2). OPRF also will play at the prestigious Pontiac Holiday Tournament (Dec. 27-29).
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P R E V I E W
Peck takes over Fenwick hoops New head coach, Hopkins and Oraegbu will lead new-look CCL champs
By MARTY FARMER Sports Editor
In previewing the upcoming season for the Fenwick High School boys basketball team, the inclination is to mention who the Friars lost last spring rather than the returners this winter. After all, the departure of highly respected coach Rick Malnati, losses of nationallyranked recruit DJ Steward and Damari Nixon (both transferred out of Fenwick), plus graduation of all-state football player Michael O’Laughlin, all-conference pick AJ Nixon and Billy Bruce is a lot to absorb. With that group leading the way, Fenwick went 20-8 and won the Chicago Catholic League Blue with an 8-0 record. Steward, who transferred to Whitney Young, was the Chicago Catholic League Lawless Player of the Year, while O’Laughlin, Bruce, AJ Nixon and Damari Nixon (now at Curie) earned all-conference honors. Fenwick has won 38 straight CCL league games. Fortunately, the new-look Friars have
cause for optimism this season. Staunton Peck, a former New Trier star who played for Malnati and then served as his top assistant coach, takes over the program. Peck, who is also the assistant athletic director at Fenwick, has paid his dues in the coaching ranks. Before coming to Fenwick with Malnati, Peck was an assistant coach at New York University, Vassar College and the University of Wisconsin-La Crosse. “I am extremely excited to take on the role of head basketball coach at Fenwick,” Peck said in a press release last spring. “I am grateful for all the mentoring that Rick Malnati has given me as a person and basketball coach throughout the past five years and beyond. He is an incredible coach and an even better person. I hope to carry on the great culture he has established over the past five years.” Like his young but promising players, Peck will need to be a quick study. A very difficult schedule could contribute to some growing pains, but the Friars have enough talent to be competitive. Bryce Hopkins looks like the rising star at Fenwick. At 6-foot-5, 210 pounds, Hopkins is
one of the most talented players in the CCL. College recruiters certainly have taken notice as the prized sophomore already has four Division I offers (notably Nebraska). Hopkins will be flanked by seniors Solomon Oraegbu and Lucas Kolovitz. Both averaged five points per game last season as key reserves. They will be called on to step up their games in both production and leadership. “Along with Bryce, Solomon is our best playmaker/scorer,” Peck said. “Lucas is one of the best athletes in the area. He will be a matchup problem for other teams because of his ability to shoot from the perimeter as well as post up opponents on the interior.” Guards Ryan Jackson, Sean Walsh and Charlie Westerman are perimeter guards who shoot well from beyond the 3-point arc. Junior forward Ryan Planek is another nice bench piece for Fenwick. Trey Pettigrew and Kaden Cobb are promising freshmen. According to Peck, Pettigrew is a probable starter this season. The 6-3, 180-pound Cobb, who starred on the freshmen football team, is a tremendous athlete with strong leadership skills.
Courtesy @FenwickADTwitter
Fenwick sophomore Bryce Hopkins is a Division I prospect. Hopkins takes a photo with Sister Jean Dolores Schmidt, chaplain of the Loyola University mens basketball team. While inexperience, rebounding and the aforementioned schedule could be issues, Peck has confidence in his players “I think we will compete for a CCL championship again this year. This will be a young, fun group to coach with great senior leadership,” he said. “We will play fast on offense and use our depth as our strength.”
All Friars on deck for Power With Blaze and Moore gone, returning sectional finalists need teamwork By MARTY FARMER Sports Editor
During his storied coaching career at Fenwick, girls basketball coach Dave Power has seen his share of spectacular players: Erin Lawless, Tricia Liston, Devereaux Peters, who had their Fenwick jerseys retired last January, come to mind. 2017 graduates McKenzie Blaze and Kate Moore etched their place in program history last season. Both scored over 1,000 points in their careers. The terrific tandem provided leadership as well, powering the Friars (16-17) to a regional championship and sectional final berth against Nazareth, which finished as the state runner-up last season. The Roadrunners edged Fenwick 63-58 in a riveting sectional title game. Fenwick will look to replace Blaze and Moore by committee. A deep, versatile and talented roster appears ready to answer the call. A mix of experienced upperclassmen will stabilize the lineup. Seniors Maggie Van Ermen, Audrey Hetzer and MK Kapsch, collectively, offer a little bit of everything on the court.
Van Ermen is a lockdown defender and the glue of the team. Hetzer qualified for the IHSA 3-point shooting contest last season. Kapsch is a hard-nosed player known for taking charges and crashing the boards. Junior Sheila Hogan is a returning all-conference player. Hogan is a complete player offensively with great court vision and shooting ability. Katie Schneider provides an inside presence with her toughness and ability to score and rebound. Stephanie Morella also rebounds well and is a high-end competitor. Lily Reardon is known for her quickness, which translates well on both ends of the floor. Reardon can make shots from behind the 3-point arc, penetrate the lane and defend the perimeter well. Several underclassmen may contribute as well, including sophomores Lauren Hall and Gianna Amundsen and freshmen Audrey Hinrichs and Elsie Heneghan. “We will play up-tempo offensively but with an emphasis on defense,” assistant coach Dale Heidloff said. “We should be a force to be dealt with and very entertaining to watch.” Alyssa Stramaglia and Cassandra Lee, a
File photo
Fenwick guard Lily Riordan adds speed and quickness to the lineup. pair of standouts on the Fenwick softball team, and senior guard Gianna Ortiz could contribute off the bench as well. The Friars will be tested throughput the season due to a very difficult schedule. Fenwick will face five of the top 20 teams ranked in Illinois Preps Insider. “We play a very tough schedule, including the GCAC Red, which may be the toughest conference in the state,” Heidloff said. “Our
win-loss record may be a bit deceiving, but our goal is to get deeper into the playoffs than a year ago.” Blending the Fenwick players into a cohesive unit is the charge of Power. Since 1977, Power has amassed an overall record of 941-312, including a 618-219 mark at Fenwick over 26 years. Fenwick defeated Taft 58-43 in its season opener.
Wednesday Journal, November 21, 2018
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SPORTS
Peck takes over Fenwick hoops 54
B A S K E T B A L L
OPRF girls on a fast track 53
P R E V I E W
Heady times for Huskie Havoc
Stacked lineup sets up OPRF well to win this season By MARTY FARMER
T
Sports Editor
imes are good around the Oak Park and River Forest High School boys basketball program. The Huskies went 23-6 last season, highlighted by a 13-0 record in the West Suburban Conference Silver Division. The undefeated run in the West Suburban Conference (created in the early 1980s) was a first for the program. During the 2016-2017 campaign, OPRF won the Riverside-Brookfield Thanksgiving Classic title, along with conference and regional championships, en route to the Huskies’ first sectional final appearance since 1976. OPRF upset Chicago powerhouse Curie in the semifinals before falling 73-55 to eventual state champion Whitney Young in the Proviso East Sectional. The Huskies’ recent accomplishments raise the obvious question: What’s next? While that query will be answered over the course of the upcoming season, the Huskies certainly have the players in place See OPRF on page 53
OPRF senior Dashon Enoch is a terrific two-way player. The returning all-conference guard averaged 12 points and 1.5 steals last season.
File photo
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