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Vol. 39, No. 1

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Also serving North Riverside

January 3, 2024

Check out the Landmark stories you loved most PAGE 11

Mayors look ahead at 2024 PAGES 6, 9

RBHS could go solar The $1.2 million proposal could offset 18% of the school’s energy use By BOB SKOLNIK Contributing Reporter

Solar panels could be coming to the roof of Riverside Brookfield High School. The RBHS District 208 school board and administration are exploring whether to purchase and install so-

lar panels. The school hired a solar consulting firm to advise it on solar alternatives, and is expected to hire a construction manager or owners representative later in January to provide further advice and expertise on the feasibility of installing solar panels on the roof at RBHS.

@RBLandmark

At a meeting last month, the RBHS school board meeting consultants from Nania, a Warrenville-based energy consulting firm, presented a 16-page report to the school board. The consultants presented three options — a minimum See SOLAR PANELS on page 7

36 years later, a police officer reconciles with his shooting

Former Riverside police chief Tom Weitzel shares his story AMINA SERGAZINA Staff Reporter

On a hot August morning around 3 a.m. during his routine patrol in 1987, Riverside Police Chief Tom Weitzel was shot. Weitzel kept the story and its memory for 36 years. “When you’re working, you don’t want to dwell on that, and I didn’t want that to define my career,” he said. But Weitzel, now retired, is no longer working. And it was time to share. Weitzel decided to share it with the public in the National Law Enforcement Museum’s Precinct 444 podcast and to release the radio tapes from the time when the table were turned on him and he became the victim. See WEITZEL on page 3

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The Landmark, January 3, 2024

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The Landmark, January 3, 2024

WEITZEL

Managing trauma

IN THIS ISSUE

from page 1 “I have just come to grips with it,” he said. Weitzel spoke with the Landmark about his experience. At the time, Weitzel, who is now an ambassador for the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial Fund, had been on the job for just three years and was newly married. He explained he knew since he was four years old that he wanted to be a police officer. It’s in the family. His uncle, also a man in blue, used to take him on ride alongs or let him sit at the dispatch center. His three sons are police officers, too. According to Weitzel, on the night of the shooting, he was on a routine solo patrol when he noticed a suspicious car without license plates that had heavily tinted windows. It was parked on the wrong side of the street. Weitzel used a flashlight to see what was going on inside, but several layers of tint and lack of light in the area prevented him from seeing inside. “They had to put a lot of extra film on the window because my spotlight just bounced right off the car,” he said. He recalled that when he walked out in front of his car and behind the parked car, the back door opened and a man, dressed in all black, rolled out onto the ground. “I heard the shotgun rack — that’s a very distinctive sound when you hear the pump. Those types of guns are typically used for hunting,” Weitzel said. “The next thing I know, he shot me.” Weitzel said the impact from the bullets lifted him off the ground and he fell, hitting his head on the bumper. He said was unconscious for about 35 seconds. Later, police learned that the shooter used birdshot pellets, small lead spheres used in shotgun ammunition to spread out in a pattern after they’re fired. When Weitzel regained consciousness, he saw two more people getting into the car and fleeing the scene. He tried to call for help, but his portable police radio was damaged from the impact, so he crawled back to his car to use the radio inside. That part of the recording can be heard on the radio tape. Police appeared within minutes. Weitzel said he was rushed to the Loyola emergency room where they found out that he had

Calendar . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4 Crime . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5 Classified . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .14 Opinion . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .11 Obituaries. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .11 Sports . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .13

FILE

Tom Weitzel broken ribs, internal bleeding, and an eye injury from the shrapnel. But most of the impact was on the bulletproof vest. “I could feel that there was blood leaking into my stomach, I could feel the broken ribs and I could feel the eye injury,” Weitzel said. “But I felt lucky to be alive.” The head of the emergency room told Weitzel and his wife that when they got a call about a police officer getting shot in the chest with a shotgun, she expected him to be dead on arrival. “She was amazed that I was alive,” Weitzel said. Police later determined those three people were part of a Chicago street gang who had been attempting to commit an armed robbery in Riverside. But after they shot Weitzel, they fled the scene instead. Weitzel returned to work six weeks later. His wife was against him returning yet supported his decision. “She would have made me quit,” Weitzel said. “She went through hell. Imagine a police chief knocking on her door at 4 a.m. telling you ‘your husband’s been shot, I don’t know if he’s alive or dead. I need you to come with me to the hospital.’” The suspects were not caught at the time. But about eight later, one of the people from that night was arrested for weapons trafficking. He was facing 20 years in prison. To cut his sentence, he offered police information about what he said was an of-

ficer killed in a Western suburb. Police could not find a record of a deceased policeman that matched the description. Eventually, they connected it to Weitzel’s shooting. Although the offender was apprehended, he could not be prosecuted for shooting because the statute of limitations in the 1980s was seven years for the attempted murder of a policeman. “That was very heartbreaking to me that we could not prosecute the offenders,” Weitzel said. However, Weitzel did not give up and collaborated with the late Republican State Senator and Riverside resident, Judy Baar Topinka, to abolish the statute of limitations in the 1990s. “I try not to think about it anymore, I did what I could by getting the law changed, I was proud of that,” Weitzel said. “In order to continue to work, you have to find a place [where] anger isn’t there.” The La Grange Area League of Women Voters invited Weitzel to speak Jan. 18 at the Brookfield Public Library about the Safety, Accountability, Fairness and Equity Today Act, or SAFE-T Act. The law eliminated monetary bail in September and includes other provisions.

Editor Erika Hobbs Staff Reporters Amina Sergazina, Amaris Rodriguez Digital Manager Stacy Coleman Digital Media Coordinator Brooke Duncan Design/Production Manager Andrew Mead Editorial Design Manager Javier Govea Designer Susan McKelvey Sales and Marketing Representatives Lourdes Nicholls, Ben Stumpe Business & Development Manager Mary Ellen Nelligan Circulation Manager Jill Wagner EMAIL jill@oakpark.com Publisher Dan Haley Special Projects Manager Susan Walker

BOARD OF DIRECTORS Chair Judy Greffin Treasurer Nile Wendorf Deb Abrahamson, Gary Collins, Steve Edwards, Darnell Shields, Sheila Solomon, Eric Weinheimer

HOW TO REACH US ADDRESS 141 S. Oak Park Ave., Oak Park, IL 60302 PHONE 708-442-6739 ■ FAX 708-467-9066 E-MAIL erika@growingcommunitymedia.org ONLINE www.RBLandmark.com The Landmark is published digitally and in print by Growing Community Media NFP. The newspaper is available on newsstands for $1.00. A one-year subscription costs $41 within Cook County and $51 outside the county. Advertising rates may be obtained by calling our office. Periodical rate postage paid at Oak Park, IL (USPS 0019-585). Postmaster send address corrections to Landmark, 141 S. Oak Park Ave., Oak Park, IL 60302. © 2024 Growing Community Media NFP.

The Landmark, January 3, 2024

BIG WEEK

Winter fun at the zoo

January 3-10 CZS/BROOKFIELD ZOO

Saturdays, Sundays, Tuesdays, and Thursdays in January, Brookfield Zoo The holidays are over. You spent a mountain of cash and eaten your weight of chocolate Santas. The kids are still at home. Grab the kiddos, bundle up and get some fresh air and exercise – for free – at the zoo. Brookfield Zoo is open without cost on weekends in January and also on Tuesdays and Thursdays. What better way to spend the new year? 8400 31st St.

Chair Zumba Friday, Jan. 5, 1:30 - 2:15 p.m., Linda Sokol Francis Brookfield Library For all those senior citizens and adults who made their New Year’s resolutions to “be more active,” boy, is this the perfect opportunity for you! The Brookfield Library is hosting a Chair Zumba which is, you guessed it, Zumba but with a chair! The 45-minute seated session will allow participants to tone their muscles and give themselves boosts of energy while incorporating dance moves from Latin, world, and pop music. This event improves overall energy, core stability, muscular strength, cardiovascular endurance, and motor skills. This class is perfect for people who find it hard to stand while doing cardio. Registration is required, so visit the Brookfield Library’s website for more information. 3541 Park Ave.

Snowy Tree: Winter Family Fun Thursday, Jan. 4, 6 p.m., Bottle & Bottega

Bring your family over to Bottle & Bottega for a fun family painting event. Put all your artistic skills to the test as you try to paint and perfect the picture: a snowy tree. Painting and instruction time starts at 4:30 p.m. and ends at 5:30 p.m. when dry time and pictures start. The painters at B&B suggest attendees arrive 15-30 minutes before instruction time starts to ensure that all supplies are gathered. Have a contest with your family to see who can paint the best tree and the loser will have to buy everyone ice cream after the event! Tickets range from $35-$45 depending on canvas size. Buy your tickets here: https:// www.paintingwithatwist.com/studio/la-grange/event/3583029/. 1 W. Harris Ave.

First Open Mic of the New Year Wednesday, Jan. 3, 8 - 11 p.m., Pub 78 Calling all slam poets, singers, rappers, and artists of the community: Join Pub 78 this Wednesday for their first open mic night of 2024, hosted by Kelly Ott. Pub 78 urges members of the community to come together and listen to each other’s masterpieces. This is the best opportunity for those who have been too nervous to put on a show for their friends and families. Come together with other artists of the neighborhood and enjoy everyone’s talents. 3733 Grand Blvd.

New Year’s Tarot Reading Saturday, Jan. 6, 12 - 2 p.m., North Riverside Public Library Are you trying to see what the future of 2024 has in store for you? Love? Heartbreak? Success? Money? Well, there’s only one way to find out! The North Riverside Public Library will be hosting tarot readings for the New Year. To provide background, some tarot cards are The Magician, High Priestess, Empress, Wheel of Fortune, Sun/Moon, and more. The cards all have a meaning, and that meaning can be applied to your own life. See what the cards have in store for you. RSVP now at the library’s website. 2400 Des Plaines Ave.

Compiled by Grace Harty Contributing Reporter

CALENDAR EVENTS ■ If you would like your event to be featured here,

please send a photo and details by noon of the Wednesday before it needs to be published. We can’t publish everything, but we’ll do our best to feature the week’s highlights. Email calendar@wjinc.com.

The Landmark, January 3, 2024

Brookfield Chamber of Commerce increases scholarship Students can now get up to $5,000 over 4 years By AMINA SERGAZINA Staff reporter

The Brookfield Chamber of Commerce raised its annual college scholarship to $5,000, up from $1,000. Students who receive the scholarship will get $1,250 each year for four years if they keep good grades and volunteer eight hours a year at a Brookfield business or the chamber of commerce. The initial amount of $1,250 will be directly awarded directly to the student and not to the school. Brian Sharenow, president of the chamber of commerce, said the reason for the increase was to get people more involved in the community instead of just awarding the money one time. “One example could be volunteering at all of the farmers market every Saturday or working some of the chamber and or village sponsored events,” Sharenow said. The chamber will provide the recipients with the list of the volunteering opportunities. The scholarship is funded through the events that the chamber of commerce holds, such as “Dancing With The Chamber,” “60 To Win Raffle” and others. “We’re trying to increase their awareness and their ability to work within business separate from what they learn in college,” Sharenow said. “To get more hands-on experience, to get more practical experience and to be more involved with different business organizations all within the community that they grew up in.” The scholarship is available for senior students at Lyons Township high school and Riverside Brookfield high school who reside in Brookfield and who will pursue a two-or four-year degree in business. Interested students will need to fill out an application, answer a question about

why they want to pursue business, list extracurricular activities and jobs they worked during high school, and maintain a minimum GPA of 3.0, ACT score of 20 or greater or an SAT score of 1000 or greater. The committee, which consists of members of the chamber of commerce, will determine the scholarship winners based on application information, recommendations and an interview of the final list from each school. There will be one recipient from each school and the money can be used on any expenses associated with college. The scholarship was established in 2016 and Sharenow said the number of applicants vary. Some years it was as little as five and some up to 50. “There’s a lot of opportunity for anyone who’s interested in business or a business career to be able to expand on what their opportunities are right here, where they grew up, either before they get to college or even after they’ve been in college,” Sharenow said. The scholarship deadline is March 1 and winners will be announced by May 1. Interested students can apply through their college/career center on campus. The scholarship applies to the 2024-2025 school year.

P O L I C E

R E P O R T S

Woman charged with DUI flees traffic stop, threatens police A woman was arrested for driving under the influence of alcohol after she fled from a traffic stop and ran a red light early Tuesday morning on Dec. 21, according to the Brookfield Police Department. The woman was driving a silver Honda Civic eastbound on 31st Street at about 2:27 a.m. when she was spotted by an officer going 62 mph in a 30-mph-zone, the report said. The officer followed the vehicle, saw her cross the yellow line without signaling, and then swerve back and brake. The officer then pulled the vehicle over on the 8400 block of 31st Street. The officer approached the vehicle and smelled alcohol coming from inside. The woman said she was pregnant and was speeding because she needed to urinate. She had slurred speech and could not find her insurance card. The officer went back to his squad car to check the driver’s license, while another officer arrived to assist. The second officer saw through the rear window how the driver took three sips of a drink from a can. A moment after that, the woman then drove away from the traffic stop, ignoring the officers’ commands to stop. The officer followed the vehicle with his lights and siren on, but the driver did not stop. The vehicle turned onto 1st Avenue and ran a red light, according to the report. The vehicle finally stopped on the 3100 block of 1st Avenue. When asked why she drank if she needed to urinate, the driver said she was thirsty and noted it was ginger ale. She said she did nothing wrong. The driver was taken to the police station.When asked why she smelled of alcohol she said she had diabetes. Police said the officer answered that it has no correlation to the smell. She also threatened the officer and said she personally knows the mayor of the village of Lyons, Christopher Getty. The woman was given a warning to motorist, traffic tickets and tow paperwork. The officer drove her home.

Couple loses $40,000 to a tech support scam A couple fell victim to a tech support scam that cost them $44,600 Thursday, according to Brookfield police. The scam began on Thursday evening, when the couple turned on their computer and saw a message saying it was locked. They called the number on the screen and gave remote access to a person who claimed to fix the problem. The person charged them $200 for antivirus software and said it would take some time. The next day, he called them back and said he had accidentally deposited $44,200 into their checking account and they needed to return it. After the man instructed them to deposit the money through various Bitcoin machines, using a QR code he texted them. After they deposited the money, he reminded them that they still owe $24,000 and asked if they have a different bank account. The couple said yes and went to the Bank of America branch in Oak Park where they withdrew $24,000 in cash and deposited most of that. After thinking about it overnight, the couple realized they had been scammed and called the police on Saturday. The police told them to contact their banks and to take their computer to a repair company. Police also gave them identity theft paperwork and advised them to contact the credit bureaus. These items were obtained from the Brookfield Police Department and North Riverside Police Department reports dated Dec. 25, 2023 – Jan. 1, 2024 and represent a portion of the incidents to which police responded. Anyone named in these reports has only been charged with a crime and cases have not yet been adjudicated. We report the race of a suspect only when a serious crime has been committed, the suspect is still at large, and police have provided us with a detailed physical description of the suspect as they seek the public’s help in making an arrest.

Compiled by Amina Sergazina

The Landmark, January 3, 2024

By Linda Sokol Francis. E.A.

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A look at 2024 with Riverside’s president Douglas Pollock Big plans for parks, facilities and the village’s 150th anniversary

half for the year for sure. The details of that are to be determined, but that will certainly be a priority. Other items that come to mind: We’re still working with the Army Corps of Engineers on the Groveland flood wall. That is still in progress. They’re in the design phase of that, the village is not By AMINA SERGAZINA committed to build that yet, but we’re hopStaff Reporter ing that we can get more information and reach a decision sometime soon. With the new year on us, We’re just dependent upon the everyone is abuzz with resoarmy corps of engineers is to lutions, predictions and fresh the timing of that, as well as destarts. To see what’s ahead for pendent on Metropolitan Water Riverside, the Landmark sat Reclamation District in terms down with village president of funding for that project. So Douglas Pollock to talk about that’ll be a big focus of 2024. the top priorities for the vilThe only other item that lage and the challenges awaitcomes to mind right now is the ing ahead. starting a planning process for The interview has been edDOUGLAS POLLOCK the sesquicentennial of the vilited for length and clarity. Riverside lage of Riverside. In 2025, the village presidnet village of Riverside will celWhat are the top priorities ebrate its 150th anniversary. for the village in 2024? You may recall at a recent board meeting The Village board right now is working we appointed a committee to oversee that, on adopting strategic goals for 2024 and we the planning efforts. They’ve met once and anticipate that those will be determined they’ll be meeting on a regular basis here and finalized in early January. I can’t say in the coming for the rest of 2024 and we’re for sure what our priorities are for 2024, excited about that. They will plan some but I can give you some idea of what we’ll events to celebrate our anniversary in 2025. be looking at. The last thing I would mention is the Some of the items that have been brought village board, the trustees, want to priup in this process of developing strategic oritize parks and recreation facilities and goals includes our facility needs, Riverside programs and we’ll be looking more at has a need for better police and fire facili- what we can do to enhance our parks and ties. Some of our facilities are substandard recreation offerings for the village. and we’d like to improve those for our police and fire in particular. But overall, the What do you mean by that? village’s administration department also Well, we recently hired a consultant to do needs some better facilities, but mainly a survey of the community and that survey police and fire. We’re looking at what’s will lead to a master plan for parks and reccommonly called the youth center build- reation facilities and programming, and ing, which is at kind of warehouse-looking that’ll be occurring throughout 2024. We building behind the village hall and we’ll awarded a contract at our last board meetbe looking at that to see what we can do ing to a consultant to do that survey and with that. That’ll certainly be a priority in research for us and prepare a plan for us so that we can look at where we’re meetthe coming year. Other items that have come up that are ing the needs, where our strengths are, in priority include the sustainability that terms of parks and recs, as well as what some of our opportunities could be in the we’ve been working on. We are members of C4, the cross-community climate collabora- future to improve parks and rec. programtive, and I expect that we’ll be adopting a ming and facilities in Riverside. We have sustainability plan for the village of Riverside in the first quarter of the year, first

Continued on page 7

The Landmark, January 3, 2024

SOLAR PANELS scope option, a medium scope option and a maximum scope option. School officials seemed most interested in the medium scope proposal. The cost of the medium scope proposal to install solar panels on the roof would be nearly $1.2 million, but a significant portion of that cost would be recouped by federal, state and ComEd grants and incentives. The consultants predicted that RBHS would qualify for $449,552 in yearone incentives from the federal government and ComEd that would bring the net firstyear cost of installing solar panels down to $749,611. The consultants said that RBHS could also qualify for state incentives of $550,156 over seven years. The medium scope option is projected to produce 674,349 kilowatt hours of electricity annually, which would offset 18% of the school’s energy use and save the school an estimated $54,285 in its first year of operation. The school’s initial investment would be recouped in about five years and the school is projected to save more than $1.3 million over 25 years in reduced energy costs. RBHS officials said that they would also use a $50,000 state school-maintenance matching grant to help pay for the installa-

tion of solar panels. “The numbers make sense,” said Superintendent Kevin Skinkis. “I think it makes sense financially.” But Skinkis said he was not yet ready to recommend installing solar panels. Before doing that, Skinkis recommended, and the school board agreed, hiring a construction manager to make sure the roof and school can handle solar panels and associated mechanicals. Skinkis said that it makes sense to hire an independent advisor focused on the mechanical capability of the school building. “We need to do some homework,” Skinkis said. “We need to some more research.” At its Jan 16 meeting, the school board is expected to hire the Mount Prospectbased firm of Nicholas to advise it on the feasibility of solar at RB. In 2014, the school used Nicholas to manage the construction of its new football stadium and has used the firm since then to manage the modernization of the main gym, the construction of the new parking lot, and to oversee roof work. School board member Laura Hruska suggested that a school board member and school officials visit some schools where solar panels have been installed to see how they are working out in practice. “Another pair of different eyes and questions,” Hruska said. Approximately 20 school districts in Illinois are using solar generated electricity and more are considering it.

a lot of young families in Riverside now, and we want to take advantage of that and make sure that we’re meeting their needs as well as every other demographic group in the village.

To be determined. We’ll be looking into that as a board, trustees will be looking into that with support from our staff. We’ll have to make priorities and make decisions on how we address these issues.

What are the biggest challenges that the village is facing in 2024? Well, you know, as with most villages it’s always about making the best use out of limited resources. Yeah, we have very strong facility needs, as I mentioned, financing that’s going to be a challenge. Financing facilities, the Groveland flood wall, financing that, coming up with a plan for the Groveland flood wall that will honor and respect the existing homes on the river, as well as provide flood relief for residents in that area. So yeah, financing some of these projects that we’d like to get done. Probably the biggest challenge that we face.

Are there any other challenges besides the financial? That’s the main thing, finding out how we can continue to meet the needs of the residents.

Doing homework from page 1

How are you planning to deal with these challenges?

Are there any plans for improving the infrastructure in the village? Oh yeah, that’s ongoing, I’m glad you mentioned that because that’s right up there with the other categories I mentioned is continuing to improve our infrastructure. We’re looking at how to fund our street maintenance program and we will be reviewing and discussing how the board wants to continue to finance that and as well how that fits in with our overall capital improvement plan.

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increase by 5%

The school board also authorizes three new ELL positions By BOB SKOLNIK Contributing Reporter

The cost for most students attending the Riverside Elementary School District 96 preschool is going to increase by 5% next year. On Dec. 20, the District 96 Board of Education unanimously approved raising the tuition for the preschool, which serves kids ages 3 to 5, to $3,573 annually, or $397 a month for the nine months that the preschool is open. The District 96 preschool, like all preschool programs operated by public school districts, is what is known as a blended program, which means it includes children who have individual education plans and those who do not. By state law, the families of preschool students with IEPs, often for some time of development delay or learning disability, do not pay any tuition because the school district is legally obligated to provide those students preschool services without any charge. The District 96 preschool, which is located at Ames School in Riverside, has four blended classes, two in the morning and two in the afternoon, which meet for 2.5 hours a day. There are 40 tuition paying students in the blended classes and 23 students with IEPs. “The goal is to have an inclusive community setting,” said Supt. Martha Ryan Toye. There are also two classes for students with more extensive needs that serve 14 other students with IEPs. Each blended class has one teacher and two paraprofessionals. In recent years, the District 96 school board has been trying to peg its preschool tuition increases to its annual levy, which is tied to the rate of inflation and capped at 5%. This is the second straight year of a 5% tuition increase. Previous increases were lower. In the 2021-22 school year, the increase tuition increase was just 1.4%.

“We are continuing to increase it at the rate of inflation,” said school board member Joel Marhoul. School board authorizes three more ELL teaching positions In other action at the school board’s Dec. 20 meeting, the school board unanimously approved creating three more full-time positions in the English Language Learner department, which teaches students whose native language is not English. It is not clear whether those positions will be filled during this academic year because state rules prohibit Illinois public school districts from hiring teachers who work in another district during a school year. District 96 has 51 more nonnative, English-speaking students this year than last year, including some who are recent migrants to the United States. “We have had an increasing number of foreign-born students and their families who have recently arrived in the United States,” said District 96 director of teaching and learning Angela Dolezal in a memo to Ryan-Toye laying out the need for additional ELL staff. Dolezal said ELL students at Ames and Central School need more help than they are getting. “All ELs receive the minimum required minutes of services; however, many ELs and their families require more than the minimum to realize their full potential in Riverside District 96,” Dolezal wrote. “With an increase in newcomers at Ames Elementary School and Central Elementary School, a higher level of support is needed at these two schools. However, our current department staffing does not allow more time to support Ames and Central Elementary Schools.” The priority of placement of any new hires would be to support higher levels of need at Ames and Central; to support higher levels at L.J. Hauser Junior High School, outplaced students and to increase family liaison services. It is also to grow the district’s family liaison services and to support increasing needs at Blythe Park School, as needed. “This is definitely filling a need,” said school board member Dan Hunt.

The Landmark, January 3, 2024

What’s in store for 2024? Q&A with Brookfield village president Michael Garvey Major projects are ahead, Garvey says By MALLIKA MITRA Contributing reporter

After an exciting year for the village, Brookfield is ready to close the chapter on 2023 and get ready for 2024. There’s a lot to look forward to. The Landmark caught up with Brookfield’s village president Michael Garvey about what he’ll most remember about the last year, and what Brookfield residents can expect in the months to come. This interview took place in early December and has been edited for length and clarity. What 2023 events in Brookfield stuck out to you most? The outdoor activities, the excitement about our business districts, and some of our local gatherings. We had our Music on Grand Boulevard series with attendance of people of all ages. It was so exciting to see the crowds out there, and people say they can’t wait for next summer. But it’s not just about the music and entertainment: It also does a lot for our business districts as it brings people in from out of town to see what we have to offer in Brookfield. Another one of the really exciting things we did last year for the first time was the Intelligentsia Cup bike race, which was a massive undertaking. We worked with our friends at Cycle Brookfield and it was another tremendous showcase for the village of Brookfield. We had so many visitors from outside of Brookfield, including international visitors, who got to see our beautiful village. What are you looking forward to in 2024? There are a lot of important initiatives in the upcoming budget that might not necessarily excite the average person, but

myself and the village board are excited about them. That includes what we’ll be able to do in terms of additional personnel to provide better services to residents, major infrastructure upgrades and improvements, and capital equipment and economic development issues. We’re going to be doing another million dollars in street work and lead water service replacement, which doesn’t sound glamorous, but it’s a safety issue. We’re just doing the solid things that we believe village governments are supposed to be doing. On top of that, we’re still going to have some fun.

going forward for this year: framing each issue and seeing how it affects our movement towards that goal. We also want to continue to work with other communities, and through region-wide and statewide initiatives, to become more sustainable. There’s everything from our economic development department encouraging green-type developments, and projects like rooftop gardens and bioswales. We’re looking for any future building projects that we have on village property to have a sustainability goal or outlook on it when it’s feasible.

“We think it’s going to be an Are there other issues that How so? are top of mind as we move exciting year into We’re working on hosting the new year? the bike race again. We hope for economic We always look at what our to improve our offerings to the main responsibilities are as public in terms of even better development.” elected officials, like providing

concerts in the park, Music on Grand and other events where we could pair with the Chamber of Commerce. We have a world-class farmers’ market thanks to the Brookfield Chamber of Commerce and we look to continue to support them and make it even bigger and better next year.

excellent police and fire protection, and making sure we have Brookfield village president safe water sources and that the streets are in good condition. We’ve put a lot of time and effort into making Brookfield very bike friendly, and have other transportation options, and made improvements along Salt Creek including the new canoe launch. So, we’re trying We’ve of course been talking a lot re- to make ourselves very environmentally cently about climate change. What sus- friendly and attractive in that area. tainability efforts can we expect from We think it’s going to be an exciting year Brookfield? for economic development. We have some We’ve joined the C4 collaboration group major projects that are in the planning with other suburbs. We want to look at stages or early approval stages. We pureverything through the lens of our re- chased a building that we plan on using to sponsibility and our desire to be more sus- create one of our first community parking tainable, looking out for the future of our lots, and the board specifically asked that planet. So, we’ve asked village staff to in- as we design and build that parking lot, we corporate ideas of how particular projects make it a model example of how we want and initiatives can be more environmen- private parking lots to be built in terms of tally friendly and sustainable. That’s a goal landscaping sustainable design.

MICHAEL GARVEY

YOUR

BEST

LIFE

with Lisa Capone

New Year. New Home. Moving to a senior living community is a major decision…one that should not be taken lightly but also one that should not be delayed. Procrastinating could mean missing out on a more comfortable, supported and socially engaging lifestyle. • Comfort. Packing up and moving is a physically and mentally demanding process. Making the transition to a senior living community while you’re healthy gives you the chance to settle in at your own pace and enjoy all the perks of your new residence. • Support. Senior living communities offer a range of services and amenities to support your physical, emotional and social needs. Delaying a move could result in you missing out on benefits and assistance that can enhance your overall quality of life. • Engagement. Social connections are crucial at any stage of life but they often diminish as we age and become more isolated. Senior living communities provide a built-in social network, allowing you to form friendships and deep connections that can contribute to your long-term happiness and well-being. When deciding if a senior living community is the right choice, remember you control your destiny…seize the opportunity to take the next step toward a fulfilling and enriching life.

Visit Cantata.org for more senior living advice or call (708) 387-8182.

Independent Living•Assisted Living•Memory Support Short-Term Rehab•Long-Term Care•Home Care

The Landmark, January 3, 2024

Queer-friendly hair salon opens in Brookfield

name in her hometown. Schaffrath, Oak Goldiloxx focuses on Park native, who has been doing hair and special effects makeup for 10 years, worked inclusivity and creativity in her salon for a year.

By AMINA SERGAZINA Staff reporter

Goldiloxx, a new queer and family-owned hair salon, has opened its doors in the heart of Brookfield. The salon with gold and white decor is the brainchild of two cousins, Cynthia Citro and Giovanna Schaffrath, who share a passion for hair and a vision for inclusivity. Berwyn location is Goldiloxx’s second life. Citro, a Berwyn native, has been immersed in the hairstyling industry since 2016 when she owned a salon with the same

The two worked together harmoniously, their professional relationship strengthening over time. It was during this period that they discovered they were related through a conversation with Schaffrath’s grandmother, a revelation that added a new dimension to their partnership. “I’m Italian and we’re all related in some way shape or form,” Schaffrath said. “She does remind me a lot of my family with the way that she carries herself, she’s a strong, badass woman – of course we’re related.” In 2018, Citro faced a significant personal

PROVIDED

Goldiloxx at 9152 Broadway Ave.

PROVIDED

Cynthia Citro and Giovanna Schaffrath. challenge when she was diagnosed with breast cancer. The diagnosis, coupled with the onset of the COVID-19 lockdown, led to the closure of the salon last February. Despite these setbacks, Citro remained resilient. After her cancer went into remission, she freelanced for a while. Throughout, Citro and Schaffrath knew they could achieve together. They envisioned a salon that would not only offer hairstyling services but also foster a sense of acceptance. With this in mind, they embarked on a search for the perfect location, which they found in Brookfield. “Growing up, I always liked Brookfield,” Citro said. “I started investigating Brookfield and went to the village hall. I’m a woman business owner and was pleasantly surprised to find that most of the people in the chamber and at city hall were women. That made us really happy and extremely comfortable.” Citro and Schaffrath felt welcomed and supported, not just by the chamber of commerce, but also by the Brookfield community and businesses. Schaffrath echoed Citro’s sentiments, saying, “For our grand opening, people were stopping by all day, it really felt like people in Brookfield care about the businesses.” The choice for the location was further solidified by the significant number of women business owners in the area, which resonated

with the duo’s vision for their salon. Citro decided to keep the name of the old salon. The name Goldiloxx was inspired during a six-hour tattoo session Citro had with a friend who is a tattoo artist. The artist mentioned Goldilocks, and Citro loved it but decided to put her own spin on it. “I wanted to cater to something that we all grew up familiar with like Goldilocks and the three bears, but I am a little different and a little edgier, so I wanted to do a spin on it,” she said. “When I thought about marquee letters [sign], it was a winwin situation.” The dynamic between Citro and Schaffrath is a blend of contrasting yet complementary energies. “Cynthia is a firecracker, I love her to death, she keeps me on my toes,” Schaffrath said. “I’m her angel on her shoulder, and she’s my devil on my shoulder.” This energy is evident in their work as well. Citro specializes in extensions, while Schaffrath prefers alternative cuts and bold hair colors. Goldiloxx prides itself on being a safe space and a judgment-free zone. The salon also has a gender-neutral bathroom. During phone consultations, Schaffrath said she always makes sure to respect people’s identities. Goldiloxx is an appointment-only salon and is open Monday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. It is located at 9152 Broadway Ave.

The Landmark, January 3, 2024

Landmark stories you couldn’t live without in 2023 Here are the stories you read the most online last year By ERIKA HOBBS Editor

What would January be without a good roundup? We decided to have a little fun and poke into our website to see which stories you liked the most. Sorry, print readers, there’s no way for us to do that for you. If you want to weigh in, just email me. In the meantime, let’s take a walk down memory lane to see what piqued your interest. But first, the biggest change. Bob Uphues retired as the Landmark’s editor in August 2023 after 20 years on the job. You’ll see that many of your beloved stories are by him. 10. Riverside man faces contempt hearing in chronic nuisance case by Bob Uphues; Judge says homeowner repeatedly defied court order barring people living there The lawsuit against Robert Golba said that Riverside police had been called to his house more than 120 times between June 2020 and July 2022 for a variety reasons, including loud noises, unwanted subjects and disturbances, some of which resulted in arrests.

9. LTHS student hospitalized after attack outside North Campus by Bob Skolnik; School administrators says it was a ‘targeted incident,’ few details released A sad story from the campus. 8. Tornado tears through suburbs, narrowly missing Brookfield by Bob Uphues; Damage reported from Burr Ridge to Stickney as winds approached 110 mph “I looked out the window and saw a large rotating column of debris as it seemed to float through the intersection of Joliet and LaGrange roads, moving east,” a witness said. “I’d never seen a tornado before, and although it didn’t look like something out of the ‘Wizard of Oz,’ I still knew it was a tornado and something pretty dangerous. I was worried for the people in the intersection and in its path.” The event capped a volatile cycle of weather that began July 2-3, when between 6 and 9 inches of rain was dumped on Brookfield, Riverside and North Riverside. Another strong storm followed July 5, again overwhelming sewers that were still recovering from the earlier storm. 7. Riverside property owner faces $412,000 in fines for ‘chronic nuisance’ home by Francia Garcia Hernandez; The homeowner is set to appear at initial eviction hearing after failing to follow court orders Nuisance or not, Landmark readers couldn’t get enough of Robert Golba.

FILE

Galloping Ghost founder Doc Mack 6. West 40 buys 30-acre St. Joseph High School campus by Amaris E. Rodriguez; Agency serving local school districts plans alternative school The campus in Westchester was purchased for $8 million, wrote our education reporter, with plans for it to be the home of an alternative school run by the West 40 Intermediate Service Center, a state-funded entity which is an intermediary between the Illinois State Board of Education and 38 public school districts and three co-ops in western Cook County 5. Galloping Ghost acquires 19 parcels along Ogden Ave. by Bob Uphues; $3 million transaction caps two-year effort to buy leased properties “It was a big step,” said owner Doc Mack, who opened Galloping Ghost Arcade in 2010 with 120 games. At the time, it had since expanded to include more than 930 games.

VILLAGE OF BROOKFIELD

Cars and spectators shut down the intersection of 31st Street and Maple Avenue at about 9 p.m. on March 24, 2023, allowing cars to “drift” inside the ring for a couple of minutes before dispersing as police arrived on scene.

4. Illegal street takeovers hit suburbs, Brookfield by Bob Uphues; Cars, spectators block 31st/Maple to cheer on ‘drifters’ We doubt you forgot this one. Street takeovers, where dozens of vehicles converge on an intersection or parking lot and then block it, set off fireworks and cheer as a vehicle drifts inside the ring, made their way to the suburbs, causing a stir in many towns, including Brookfield.

3. Riverside man killed by stray gunfire in Chicago by Bob Uphues; Classic car buff was hanging out with colleagues after car show on June 23 This heartbreaking story moved readers. Jose Alejando Medina, a classic car lover, left behind his wife and two daughters. 2. Still with us? Juvenile charged with attempted murder in LTHS attack by Bob Skolnik; LaGrange police investigation remains active, victim still hospitalized This issue was connected to the story we listed in number nine. The juvenile was the second to be arrested in connection with the incident. And the drumroll please… 1. Riverside police investigate fatal crash at First and Ridgewood by Bob Uphues; Impact demolishes digital display sign at Riverside-Brookfield High School Landmark readers sure love their police and crime stories. This one, however, ended in tragedy after the driver of the car died in the crash. We hope you enjoyed reminiscing with us! We’re happy to serve you and promise you even better stories in the year ahead. We couldn’t do it without you. Come back, read often and drop me a line, if you’re so inclined. erikahobbs@GrowingCommunityMedia.org

The Landmark, January 3, 2024

Opinion OBITUARIES

THE LANDMARK VIEW

2024 in our hometowns

s this new year opens, the Landmark turned to the village presidents of Brookfield and Riverside, Mike Garvey and Doug Pollock, for their assessments of the year ahead. Interestingly, both talked about essential services residents expect from their local governments, including public safety and infrastructure, with a clearly growing focus on sustainability as a core mission of local governance. Each president also talked about the softer side of governing, from touting the value of local events to investments in parks and recreation services. Pollock, recently promoted from trustee to president with the resignation of Joseph Ballerine, offered a candid assessment of one of Riverside’s longstanding and not-effectively-addressed challenges: Its multiple public buildings, while handsome, are outdated and underinvested. Several years ago, the village assessed its physical assets and the conclusion was both grim and costly. An actual, though gradual, plan of improvement did not really follow and the structures have not magically improved. Pollock is directly acknowledging that the police and fire departments, as well as the administrative spaces, are substandard. He is calling for a strategic plan to assess the needs and, more critically, to consider plans to fund the necessary fixes. He is clear that there is not a simple or painless solution. He would add the youth center building, the not-handsome structure behind village hall, as a facility with genuine needs. The only way out is with a plan, and a long-term view, but with first steps settled. Both Garvey and Pollock tout their village’s participation in the plucky regional C4 climate collaboration among near-western suburbs. Garvey says the village will “frame each issue” Brookfield faces through a sustainability lens. That’s smart and essential. A major portion of any climate solution will come in villages and cities that take this approach. Green development. Bioswales. Rooftop gardens. All are noted by Garvey as a path toward sustainability. Riverside will adopt its own sustainability plan in the first half of 2024, says Pollock. When it comes to fun, Pollock notes an increasing number of young families in town and points to a recently let consulting contract that will include a community survey and then a master plan for parks and recreation facilities and programming. He also touts the creation of a new committee that will plan the 2025 sesquicentennial of Riverside. Garvey is beyond enthused about last summer’s Intelligentsia Cup bike race which brought crowds to town, many likely for the first time outside of zoo visit. He said the village and Cycle Brookfield are working toward repeating the event in 2024. Likewise, he sees great value in local music events which draw people to the village’s retail areas, again many visitors from outside of town. Garvey, a longtime trustee, president, trustee and, again village president, is a happy local-government fan. He is excited about budget initiatives that may not register with many locals but which reinforce the solid local governance that they appreciate.

Ann Gerardi, 82

Teresa Torres-Lopez, 86

Banker

Banker and gardener

Ann C. Gerardi (nee Preston), 82, of Broadview, died on Dec. 19, 2023. She worked in customer service in the banking field. She was the longtime Annie of Hector Perez; the sister of Harry (Charlotte) Preston, the late Georgy (the late Charlie) Lane, and the late Ruby (the late Lou) Bowling; aunt of Machelle (Michael) Buehner and the late Michael Preston; great-aunt of Molly Preston and Jacob Preston; great-great-aunt of Skyler Preston; and cousin to many. Visitation was held on Dec. 22 at Hitzeman Funeral Home & Cremation Services, 9445 W. 31st Street, Brookfield, IL 60513. Interment was private. Information: 708-485-2000 or www.HitzemanFuneral.com

Teresa R. Torres-Lopez, 86, of North Riverside, died on Dec. 24, 2023 in Maywood. Born on Oct. 15, 1937 in Tuxpan, Veracruz, Mexico, she was a longtime employee (25 years) of Bank of America, formerly known as Continental Bank. She enjoyed gardening and sewing. Teresa was the wife of Gilbert Lopez; the mother of Martin G. (Judy L.) Torres and Marco Antonio (Margarita Nuñez) Torres; grandmother of Alexandra Torres, Gerardo Torres, Erica M. (Shawn) Torres Kelley, Samantha E. Torres, Miguel R. Torres; great-grandmother of Carlos E. Torres, Hailey Torres, Viviana Torres, Maximus Torres, Conner J. Dadban; future great-grandmother of Harper J. Kelley; sister of Martina Ramirez Sosa, Elena Garcia Sosa and Elena Maria Garcia; and the aunt of many nieces and nephews. Visitation was held on Dec. 30 at Kuratko-Nosek Funeral Home, 2447 S. Desplaines Ave., North Riverside, followed by interment at Woodlawn Cemetery in Forest Park. Online condolences, memories and photos may be shared with the family at www.KuratkoNosek.com.

Robert Drake, 78 Electrical engineer Robert F. Drake Jr., age 78, of Brookfield, died on Dec. 21, 2023. He worked as an electrical engineer for a utility company. Robert was the husband of Carol Drake (nee Mazur); the brother of Ann L. (Robert Radzak) Drake; brotherin-law of Christine (the late Fred) Wojciuch and Tom (the late Kathy) Mazur; uncle to David (Brandy) Wojciuch and Ryan (Alicia) Wojciuch; and great-uncle of Alison, Luke, Aiden and Rowen. Visitation was held on Dec. 27 and 28, 2023 at Hitzeman Funeral Home Ltd., 9445 W. 31st St., Brookfield, IL 60513, followed by interment at Resurrection Cemetery, Justice.

Audrey Behnke, 87 Former Lyons resident Audrey A. Behnke, 87, formerly of Lyons, died peacefully at home surrounded by her family on Dec. 19, 2023. She was preceded in death by her husband George N. Behnke on May 31, 2015). Audrey was the mother of Jack (Sharon) Behnke, Jeffrey (Christine) Behnke, Wendy (Ken) Elder, and Peggy Behnke, the grandmother of nine and the great-grandmother of 12. Cremation was arranged by the Neptune Society. A special thanks to Lightways Hospice Care of Joliet. No services are scheduled at this time.

Sports

The Landmark, January 3, 2024

Lions’ revised lineup excels at Morton College tourney LTHS wins three, two in OT; Bulldogs finish 2-2 at Sandburg By BILL STONE Contributing Reporter

Sophomore Emma O’Brien and her Lyons Township High School girls basketball teammates accepted the challenge of playing all four games at the Morton College Christmas Tournament without 6-foot-2 junior Division I prospect and leading scorer Nora Ezike. “Each game I feel like we did better without her and stepped up a little bit more. We kind of adjusted to it, but it’s obviously great having Nora. She’s so big for us,” O’Brien said. “We’ve known all season so we prepared for it last week when we had no games. That was good, but obviously you don’t know how much she impacts in real-game scenarios.” They gained a lot more experience than they ever imagined. LTHS played four overtimes over the last two games but prevailed in both to capture the consolation championship Saturday. The Lions (12-5) beat Hersey 53-48 in overtime for ninth place after a 70-60 triple-overtime thriller over Lincoln-Way East, Friday, and a 55-49 victory over Lincoln-Way West, Thursday. The Lions lost their opener to fifth-place Mother McAuley, 64-51 Dec. 27. O’Brien and senior Elin O’Brien scored in double figures three times, senior Kennedy Wanless had two double-doubles, and sophomore Avery Mezan scored between 15 and eight points in all four games. Senior Keira Kessler also started. Junior reserve guard Tess Bernson made significant contributions, including two 3s and nine of her 10 points against Hersey (11-7) in the fourth quarter and OT.

The 16-team tournament used a 35-second shot clock. “What I think is going to make us stronger from [Ezike] not being here is each one of these girls stepped up in totally different ways,” LTHS coach Meghan Hutchens said. “I knew that could be an outcome, and I’m really, really proud of them.” Ezike traveled to visit relatives in Nigeria, the home country of her parents. She scored a career-high 32 points at Glenbard West, Dec. 20, and 20 points when the Lions beat Lincoln-Way Central, 53-34 on Dec. 16. “We’ve known [about the trip] for a full year,” Hutchens said. “[Her parents] know their time is limited to go out there because of her college career coming. They told us this would be their year to go.” Against Lincoln-Way Central (11-5), Friday, Emma O’Brien (26 points with 3 threes, 12 rebounds, 6 assists, 4 blocks) and Wanless (24 points, 13 rebounds, 4 assists, 3 blocks) had huge games and six points each in the overtimes. Mezan had nine points, five in overtime. Despite similar efforts — Emma O’Brien (22 points, 4 blocks), Elin O’Brien (10 points) and Mezan (8 points, 4 assists) — against McAuley (11-5), the lineup needed time to jell. The Lions fell behind quickly and were outrebounded 41-26. Then they outrebounded Lincoln-Way West (7-9), 36-26, behind Elin O’Brien (18 points), Mezan (15 points), Wanless (12 points, 10 rebounds) and Emma O’Brien (8 points, 9 rebounds) and outrebounded Lincoln-Way Central, 35-31. Hersey (11-7) dominated the boards 2514 in the first half, yet the Lions were tied at halftime 24-24. They ended the second quarter with a 9-2 run on two baskets from Elin O’Brien and two free throws and a three by Emma O’Brien with 6.8 seconds. Both teams had 15 rebounds the rest of the way. Mezan had 14 points and five of her six rebounds after halftime. Emma O’Brien (8 rebounds) and Elin O’Brien each had 13 points and three 3s, followed by Bernson

SARA JANZ

Lyons Emma O’Brien (#43) mid-layup during the Morton College Basketball Christmas Tournament. and Wanless (5 rebounds, 3 assists). “That was exhausting. But it was good that our team stuck with it. We just had to keep going. We wanted the overtimes until we won,” Mezan said. “Without having Nora around, she’s a big body to get at the boards. I just knew I had to step in with that.” Mezan forced overtime at 46-46 by hitting the first of two free throws with 2.6 seconds left. Bernson had six of the Lions’ seven overtime points. Bernson hit one of two free throws after her defensive rebound and a three for a 50-46 advantage. Her free throws with 2.7 seconds sealed the victory after the Huskies missed a game-tying three. “It felt really good. It was a good win, a very good team win,” Bernson said. “Tess hit some major shots late in the game. It’s a testament to Tess because she doesn’t get a ton of time,” Hutchens said.

RBHS girls basketball The Bulldogs (7-11) finished 13th at the Sandburg Holiday Classic with a 58-49 victory over Richards Friday. RBHS also beat Argo 56-37, Thursday, after losing to fifth-place Hinsdale South, 49-39, and ninth-place Providence, 62-25

on Dec. 27. Emily Organ (21 points), who returned from an ankle injury for the tournament, and Mayan Covarrubias (19 points) fueled the comeback against Richards. RBHS trailed 42-41 entering the fourth quarter, but Covarrubias scored 12 points with two 3s and hit 6 of 6 free throws to finish 8 for 8 from the line. Organ had four points after an eightpoint third quarter. Amanda Buckley (8 points), Julia Madera (7 points) and Niamh Larson (3 points) also scored for RBHS, which made 11 of 12 free throws. “[The fourth quarter] we came together as a team and just started to play the way we should have played the entire game. Our defense started to kick it up a little bit,” Covarrubias said. “My teammates were calm and kept continuing to make steals. It was definitely a good shooting quarter.” Covarrubias (18 points with 2 threes), Madera and Organ (9 points each), Larson (7 points) and Kelley Tyler (4 points) helped the Bulldogs build a 33-14 halftime lead on Argo. Larson (18 points with 3 threes) and Alyssa Morris (7 points) led the scoring against Hinsdale South. Madera had seven points against Providence.

S P O R T S

The Landmark, January 3, 2024

Bulldogs top Lions, go 3-1 at York’s Jack Tosh Classic Cicic again named all-tournament; LTHS splits four games

By BILL STONE Contributing Reporter

Riverside Brookfield High School senior guards Steven Brown and Mehki Austin are basketball teammates again for the first time since grade school. “I grew up with Steven,” said Austin, a transfer from Oak Park and River Forest. “He was kind of the reason of me coming over. He’s made it a lot easier. They’re a very welcoming staff, welcoming teammates. I’m starting to fit in more and more as we keep going. I like to play with energy and just go with what the team needs most.” The pair enjoyed quite a victory Thursday as the Bulldogs defeated Lyons Township 7156 in the third round of York’s 32-team Jack Tosh Holiday Classic. RBHS (13-2), a top-eight seed, finished 3-1 and tied for ninth by beating Conant, 54-41, Friday. They suffered a last-second 53-51 loss to fourth-place Palatine in the second round on Dec. 27. RBHS senior center Stefan Cicic was named to the 20-player all-tournament team for the second straight year. LTHS (4-8) finished 2-2 and tied for 13th by beating St. Francis, 63-42 Friday. The Lions visit RBHS on Jan. 26. In Thursday’s meeting, Brown delivered 26 points with four 3-pointers and eight assists after fouling out against Palatine with 7:19 left. “It was a very nice win, especially after [Palatine], and it was LT so that made it better,” Brown said. “[Palatine] was a tough loss and I wasn’t even in the game. It was hurtful. Painful.” Cicic (18 points, 8 rebounds), Austin (13 points) and sophomore Cam Mercer (11 points with 3 threes) also were in double figures. Seniors Liam Taylor (23 points with 3 threes), Brady Chambers (11 points), Jimmy Pajauskas (9 points) and Caleb Greer (9 assists) led the Lions. RBHS started 3-for-16 shooting but finished 25-for-38. After missing his first three shots, Brown made his last 10, starting early in the second quarter. “I didn’t realize that. I think [after] my fourth 3, I felt it,” Brown said. With offense, and defense, the Bulldogs turned a 34-28 halftime deficit into a 52-49 lead after three quarters. Then they scored

STEVE JOHNSTON

Riverside-Brookfield’s Steven Brown (22) puts up a shot over Thornwood’s Kyvon Thomas (4) during the Bill VandeMerkt Tournament on Nov. 24, 2023 in Brookfield. the first seven points of the fourth quarter. “[At halftime] I got on us about playing defense,” Brown said. “We came out and took pride in our defense. It showed and it turned into offense.” “I was really proud of how Steven kept the guys together. He was a very good leader in addition to making shots,” RBHS coach Mike Reingruber said. “It helps when you put the ball in the basket. You look like a much better team. We’ve got good shooters and good shooters have to keep shooting. It’s contagious sometimes and that’s what it was in the fourth quarter, second half.” For Austin, it was the first time his team ever had beaten LTHS. Austin had eight points in the fourth quarter with two 3s. The second opened a 67-53 lead with 3:05 left. Brown and Austin played AAU basketball with the Mac Irvin Fire. They attended sixth

grade at Gwendolyn Brooks Middle School in Oak Park before Brown moved to Riverside. “He’s my brother. We’re close and it’s very great [being teammates again],” Brown said. The Bulldogs trailed Conant 37-27 in the third quarter before prevailing behind a 21-2 run. Cicic (19 points, 12 rebounds), Mercer (17 points) and Danny Loftus (5 rebounds) paced that comeback. “To go 3-1 in a tournament like this, as loaded as it is, I’d be lying if I said I wasn’t happy,” Reingruber said. “I’m happy where we’re at, but I think we’ve got a long way to go and we’re going to keep trying to get better.” Cicic averaged 17.3 points and 8.8 rebounds for the tournament with another double-double against Palatine (14 points, 12 rebounds). The Bulldogs led Palatine 42-39 entering the fourth quarter but needed a four-point play from Mercer for a 51-51 tie with 1:26 left. The Pirates won on a last-second layup off a

cross-court pass from the three-point line off an inbounds play with 3.6 seconds. “[Palatine] really brought our energy down, but against Lyons we really brought it back. We finished out 3-1 so I feel like that was good for us,” said Cicic, a transfer last season from Notre Dame in Niles. “Last year was my first year here. I didn’t really know much about this tournament. This year I’ve improved as a player, a lot more confident. I’m just doing my game, playing my game.” The Lions also lost to Yorkville 64-55, Dec. 27, after leading 30-25 at halftime. Michael Reilly (14 points with 4 threes), Chambers (12 points, 16 rebounds), Taylor (12 points) and Greer (7 assists) led the Lions. In Friday’s third quarter, the Lions outscored St. Francis 16-2 to open a 50-28 advantage. Chambers (19 points, 12 rebounds), Taylor (11 points), Ian Polonowski (9 points) and Greer (6 assists) paced the victory. “The guys continued to play solid defense in the second half. On the offensive end, the guys handled the pressure and took quality shots,” LTHS coach Tom Sloan said. “Yorkville and R-B are both very good teams with very good players. Both took advantage of defensive mistakes if we made them. They also had players make tough shots. [Our] group continues to improve offensively and defensively. We hope to build on these experiences.” Taylor (23 points with 4 threes), Chambers (18 points, 10 rebounds) and Greer (7 assists) helped the Lions open with an encouraging 62-61 victory over St. Patrick, Dec. 26. LTHS led 55-48 after Chambers’ three with 5:13 left but St. Patrick pulled ahead 56-55. Chambers’ three with 41 seconds left put the Lions ahead 62-61. With 4.9 seconds, the Shamrocks failed to connect on an inbounds pass in the lane, Polonowski stole the ball and the Lions ran out the clock. “I’m pretty comfortable with [threes]. I air-balled a shot before but came back and drilled a big one so it was nice. You’ve just got to stay confident in your shot,” the 6-6 Chambers said. “The last four minutes, we all stuck together. Even though they pulled ahead it was nice that we just kept playing together.” Brown (18 points, 8 rebounds), Cicic (18 points), Austin (14 points, 5 assists) and Loftus (13 points) paced the Bulldogs’ 65-51 opening victory over Minooka Dec. 26.

The Landmark, January 3, 2024 15

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RIVER FOREST TOWNSHIP BOARD OF TRUSTEES REGULAR MEETINGS THIRD TUESDAY OF EACH MONTH EXCEPT SECOND TUESDAY IN FEBRUARY, APRIL AND DECEMBER Tuesday, January 16, 2024 Tuesday, February 13, 2024 Tuesday, March 19, 2024 Tuesday, April 9, 2024 (also Annual Meeting) Tuesday, May 21, 2024 Tuesday, June 18, 2024 July 16, 2024 August 20, 2024 September 17, 2024 October 15, 2024 November 19, 2024 December 10, 2024 All meetings will take place in person at 6:00 PM at the River Forest Civic Center Authority Building 8020 W. Madison Street, River Forest, IL 60305. The River Forest Civic Center Authority Board of Managers approved the same meeting dates. The meetings of the River Forest Civic Center Authority Board of Managers will take place in the same location immediately following the River Forest Township Board of Trustees meetings. Any changes in time, date or location as well as Zoom remote participation information will be posted in advance on the River Forest Township website (www.riverforesttownship.org), at the River Forest Civic Center Authority Building and at the River Forest Library. Published in Wednesday Journal January 3, 2024

This project consists of the patching of approximately 4,000 square yards of existing, defective asphalt pavement at various locations throughout the Village, as designated by the Department of Public Works. The bidding documents are available for download starting Thursday, December 21, 2023 at: www.vrf.us/bids Bids must be submitted by Wednesday, January 24, 2024 at 10:10 a.m. at: Public Works Department, 2nd Floor Village of River Forest 400 Park Avenue River Forest, IL 60305 The bid proposals will be publicly opened and read at that time. Proposals will be considered not only on the basis of cost, but also on past performance, experience and ability to perform the work. No bid shall be withdrawn after the opening of the Proposals without the consent of the President and Board of Trustees of the Village of River Forest for a period of thirty (30) days after the scheduled time of the bid opening. Bidders shall be prequalified by IDOT for: HMA Paving The Village of River Forest reserves the right in receiving these bids to waive technicalities and reject any or all bids. Published in Wednesday Journal January 3, 2024

This project includes the replacement of curb and gutter, sidewalk and driveway aprons, hot-mix asphalt surface removal, frame/lid adjustment, resurfacing, and other associated work. The bidding documents are available for download starting Thursday, December 21, 2023 at: www.vrf.us/bids Bids must be submitted by Wednesday, January 24, 2024 at 10:00 a.m. at: Village of River Forest 400 Park Avenue River Forest, IL 60305 The bid proposals will be publicly opened and read at that time. Proposals will be considered not only on the basis of cost, but also on past performance, experience and ability to perform the work. No bid shall be withdrawn after the opening of the Proposals without the consent of the President and Board of Trustees of the Village of River Forest for a period of thirty (30) days after the scheduled time of the bid opening. Bidders shall be prequalified by IDOT for: HMA Paving The Village of River Forest reserves the right in receiving these bids to waive technicalities and reject any or all bids. Published in Wednesday Journal January 3, 2024

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NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING VILLAGE OF OAK PARK HISTORIC PRESERVATION COMMISSION HEARING DATE: January 18, 2024 TIME: 7:30 p.m. or as soon thereafter as the Agenda permits LOCATION OF HEARING: Room 201 (Council Chambers), Oak Park Village Hall, 123 Madison Street, Oak Park, Illinois, 60302 APPLICATION: The Historic Preservation Commission will conduct a public hearing on an application for a Certificate of Appropriateness filed by the Applicant, March Risch, to demolish the residence at 125 S. Lombard Ave., Oak Park, Illinois, P.I.N. 16-08-302-0150000, which is located in the Ridgeland-Oak Park Historic District. A copy of the application and applicable documents are on file and are available for inspection at Village Hall, Development Customer Services Department, 123 Madison Street, Oak Park, Illinois 60302, Monday through Friday between 8:30 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. All interested persons will be given an opportunity to be heard at the public hearing. The public hearing may be adjourned by the Commission to another date without further notice other than a motion to be entered upon the minutes of the hearing fixing the time and place of the date. The Commission shall issue or deny the Certificate of Appropriateness within 15 days following completion of the public hearing. Published in Wednesday Journal January 3, 2024

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

HEARING DATE: January 24, 2024 TIME: 6:00 p.m. or as soon thereafter as the Agenda permits LOCATION OF HEARING: Room 201 (Council Chambers), Oak Park Village Hall, 123 Madison Street, Oak Park, Illinois, 60302 CALENDAR NUMBER: 01-24-DRC APPLICANT: Donald Madia Gianfrancisco ADDRESS: 211 Harrison Street, Oak Park, IL 60302 REQUEST: The Community Design Commission will hold a public hearing on an application filed by the Applicant, Donald Madia Gianfrancisco, on behalf of Publican Quality Bread, seeking variances from the following sections of the Oak Park Sign Code relative to increasing the size of a wall sign, allowing a sign to be painted on the building’s exterior façade and allowing a wall sign to be located on the side of a building without public street frontage for the establishment located at the premises commonly known as 211 Harrison Street, Illinois, Property Index Number 16-17-302-030-0000 (“Subject Property”). 1. Section 7-7-15 (D) (1) (a), requiring that the maximum size of a wall sign shall be established at one (1) square

foot per lineal foot of zoning lot frontage as measured along the front lot line; whereas the zoning lot frontage of the establishment is approximately 36 lineal feet and the proposed wall sign is approximately 558 square feet; and 2. Section 7-7-15 (D) (3), requiring that no aesthetic sign elements may be affixed or painted directly on a building’s exterior façade; whereas the proposed sign is proposed to be painted on the building’s exterior façade. 3. Section 7.7.15 (D) (1) (a), which section requires that wall signs for buildings located on interior lots shall only be placed along the front lot line; whereas the proposed sign would be located on the west elevation of the building alongside an alley and no street. A copy of the application and applicable documents are on file and are available for inspection at Village Hall, Development Customer Services Department, 123 Madison Street, Oak Park, Illinois 60302, Monday through Friday between 9:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m., except holidays. The public hearing may be adjourned by the Commission to another date without further notice by public announcement at the hearing setting forth the time and place thereof.

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