A FREE Monthly PublicationSEPTEMBER 2011
©Co
pyrig
ht M
edia
Mar
ketin
g, In
c. 2
011
Serving Leyden Township
NEWS YOU CAN USE AND MORE! Community Briefs & CalendarClassifi edsFine Dining and EntertainmentFamily Fun! Professional Services
SEPTEMBER 2011Volume 1 Issue 2
LEYDEN PEOPLE & PLACESTAMPA BAY PEOPLE & PLACES
WOMEN’S NEWSHEALTH & FITNESS TAMPA BAY
BRIDE TO BETIME OF YOUR LIFE
CAYMAN ISLANDS TODAY
PEOPLE & PLACESServing Leyden Township4303 N. Atlantic AvenueSchiller Park, IL 60176
847-624-1413Member Franklin Park/
Schiller Park Chamber of Commerce
www.womensnews.us
Publisher ........Barbara J. Piltaver
Asst. Publisher ... John E. Piltaver
Sponsor ..........Eugene E. Piltaver
Advisor ..............Peter W. Marder
Staff Writer ..................Jerry Izzo
Staff Writer ....... Barbara Piltaver
Distribution .........Milton Bolanos
Art Director .....Jennifer Erdman
Photographer .........Mary Senfeld
....................and Barbara Piltaver
Subscription Dept .... Joyce Kashe
Controlled Mail Circulation
NAPA - BIP - AS 29360National Association of Publishers of America
All rights reserved. Reproduction or use of material or pictorial content in any manner without permission is prohibited. Printed and produced in the United States. Media Marketing is not liable for the quality or performance of goods and services rendered by the advertisers in this publication. Copyright by Media Marketing, Inc.
Message from the PublisherWell I hope everyone enjoyed the first issue of People
& Places Newspaper. I’d like to thank all the readers who sent letters of congratulations and those that subscribed too! We’ve received hundreds of surveys telling us what you’d like to see in future issues and believe me; we’ll do our best to comply! Speaking of surveys, here are the 25 winners of the $25 Restaurant.com gift certificates chosen from a random drawing of all submissions.
•William Botti (SP)•Paula Catalano (FP)• Jim DeRose (SP)•Donna Dvorak (SP)•Lindita Hasko (SP)•Veronica Japczyk (RM)• James Klafeta (SP)•Thad Kozubek (FP)•Patti Kules (SP)•Robert Larsen (SP)•C. Marquis (RG)•Gladys Martinez (SP)•Elizabeth McMillen (FP)
•Anita Orozco (SP)•Phyllis Pappas (SP)•Anne Pavesic (FP)•Kris Reich (FP)•Gertrude Reuter (SP)•Mrs. Ridgeway (SP)• Jeraldine Roberts (SP)• Joe Sambucci (SP)•Mario Sanchez (BK)•Ronald Scotchmur (SP)•Lillian Wallin (SP)•Pat Winkler (SP)
Your certif icate will arrive in the mail soon. CONGRATULATIONS and thank you for taking the time to complete our survey.
THIS MONTH’S PRIZE DRAWINGSend in a receipt of at least $10 from any of the
advertisers in our paper and you’ll be entered into a drawing for one of two $25 cash prizes. Two winners for September. Remember to SHOP LOCAL!
Don’t forget, we need submissions for the Salute to a Soldier, our new “Clutter Cutter Ads”, Kid’s drawings, Picture of the month, Letters to the Editor, Open Forum, Classifieds, and of course ADVERTISERS! All Submissions must be received by the 15th of the month.
Thank you again for your support. Enjoy the holiday weekend and don’t forget to FLY THE FLAG ON SEPTEMBER 11TH God Bless America!
See you next month!Barbara Piltaver, Publisher/EditorPeople & Places Newspaper, [email protected]
Letters to the EditorI just picked up your paper at Crystal Fountain Café this morning and wanted to send a quick note to wish you the best of luck in your new endeavor. I have mailed a check for a new subscription and included the survey in the envelope as well. I really hope this paper takes off for you. It’s nice to see a true local paper around here.
– Paula Catalano, Franklin Park
Hello. First I want to say that you’re doing a great job Barb with all your efforts to improve Schiller Park. I’ve been living in Schiller Park for 21 years and each morning I jog around town before work. Every day, I run either of the train viaducts located on Lawrence and Irving Park. They are absolutely horrendous with (this may sound graphic!) garbage, broken bottles, feces, and an occasional bum sleeping under there! I brought this to Mayor Montana’s attention a few years ago and she said it was not a Village problem but the Soo Line’s problem. Really? The street department, especially with the summer help, can’t clean this area?
The Village needs to show some pride and integrity, take initiative and clean this up.
– Jim DeRose, Schiller Park
Wish to compliment People & Places staff on a great paper. Read it from beginning to end! Continue the great work. I’m sure this will be a success. The Village of Schiller Park needs this type of newspaper and you seem to have fulfilled it.
– Lillian Wallin, Schiller Park
I loved your newspaper. The articles are all so caring and uplifting. I pray God will “abundantly prosper you.” (Eph. 3:20)
– JoAnn Michonski, Schiller Park
Thank you! Thank you! For the newspaper which I have missed. Looking forward to you having a successful run of it. Take care and God Bless!
– Dolores Olofson, Schiller Park
Enjoyed reading People & Places. Keep up the good job. Lots of Luck.
– Mary Vonderhaar, Schiller Park
Great Job on the Newspaper!! It’s fantastic! It really is informative, and I am so glad you put the newspaper together. Lovin it! All of the guys and myself wanted to just extend our appreciation and gratitude for interviewing us and putting us in the newspaper. You did a great job on the interview! Thanks Barb!
– Mike Kisiel, Imminent, Schiller Park
I’m sending you 2 pictures that I was disgusted when I took them, and I presented on Monday 8/15/2011 7pm Village of Franklin Park Meeting in Community Center...Deputy Superintendent of Public Works Andy Smolen on 02/11/11 @4:16pm parked on handicap spot with car running and overhead lights, by Dunkin’ Donuts for 15 min....I ask the Mayor if Andy is handicap or if he got permission to park anywhere, I did not get the answer from anyone...I guess my question will be for the readers what they think? Are some officials just above the law?
– Christopher Litwin, Franklin Park
We will publish only signed letters with name, address and phone for verification purposes. Letters will not be returned. Letter content is not necessarily the opinion of the newspaper. Send letters to: People & Places Newspaper, 4303 Atlantic Ave., Schiller Park, IL 60176 or email [email protected]
Publisher Barbara Piltaver holding first issue of People & Places “hot off the presses”! ”
2 People & Places • September 2011
Community CalendarSeptember 2-4: TASTE OF MELROSE PARK 1000 N. 25th Ave., Melrose Park – www.melrosepark.org
September 6, 13, 20, 27: SCHILLER PARK FARMER’S MARKET 3-7pm, Metra Station
September 10: FOREST PARK’S RIB FEST 12 Noon-11pm – www.forestpark.net – Info: 771-7737
September 10-11: TASTE OF ST. GERTRUDE Sat. 3-10pm, Sunday 11:30-5pm, 9613 Schiller Blvd.
September 11: WESTCHESTER SILENT PARADE www.westchester-il.org
September 11: SCHILLER PARK CAR SHOW Metra Station, 10am-3pm – September 11th Memorial Service 4pm
September 16-18: NORTHLAKE CITYWIDE GARAGE SALE www.northlakecity.com
Sept. 16-18: DESPLAINES FALL FEST info at www.fallfestdesplaines.com
September 17: SCHILLER PARK VILLAGE WIDE GARAGE SALE
September 23: THE FALLEN SOLDIERS BENEFIT Franklin Park American Legion Hall – Proceeds will fund care packages for troops and the Children of Fallen Soldiers.
September 24: EDEN CEMETERY WALK Schiller Park – Info: 847-671-8513
September 27: COLLEGE FAIR FOR STUDENTS AND FAMILIES Triton College, 7-9pm – Info: 708-456-03009 Ext. 3130
October 1: SCARECROW ROUND-UPBuild your own scarecrow – Bulger Park Tennis Courts, Melrose Park, 5-7pm Info: 708-343-5270
October 2: PROJECT HEART WELL 5K WALK/RUN School District 81 Community Foundation – 9am startInfo: 773-412-0183 – www.sd81.org
October 2: EDDIE BIONDO FALL FEST PARADEPark District of Franklin Park – 1pmInfo: 847-455-2852 – www.fpparks.org Pumpkin Fest immediately following parade at North Park
October 2: 5K PARKS FOUNDATION FUN RUN/WALK FOR ALL AGES$20 entrance fee – Info: 847-455-2852www.fpparks.org
October 8: AUTUMN FEST Gouin Park Franklin Park 11am-3pm
Coming in October: SCREAMS IN THE PARK AT ROSEMONTChicagoland’s newest haunted Halloween attraction. Watch for details at www.rosemont.com
October 22: 4TH ANNUAL MAKE A DIFFERENCE DAY Events held in both Schiller Park and Franklin Park – Info: 847-678-2939
October 28: FRIGHT NIGHT5-7pm Bulger Park, 1601 Hirsch St., Melrose Park – Free Admission
October 30: ST. BEATRICE CHURCH $10,000 RAFFLE EXTRAVAGANZAInfo: 847-840-8570
October 31: SP HALLOWEEN HOWL7-8:30pm Bluthardt Center FP Halloween Hoot 4-6pm North Park
If you’d like to advertise your community or church event in People & Places (space permitting), send your information to [email protected] or call 847-624-1413. Posts must be received by the 15th of the month.
COMMUNITY NEWS & EVENTS
Fighting For A Cure
Help the Park Ridge Firefighters fight breast cancer by donating to the cause. For a donation of $15 you will receive a custom, pink “Park Ridge Fire Department – Fight for a Cure” t-shirt. 100% of the proceeds go the Susan G. Komen-Chicago Foundation. www.komenchicago.org.
T-shirts in regular, ladies cut, kid’s sizes and tank tops are available for $15. Hospital scrubs can be ordered for $30. Purchase your t-shirt or scrub at the Park Ridge Fire Department, 901 Devon. For further information or to order, call 847-318-5284 and ask for Dave Malcombson.
Project Heart Well
Participate in the 5K Walk/Run on October 2, 2011 at 9am p r e s e n t e d by School District 81 Community Foundation. Proceeds will be used for special projects at each school, assistance to the Village of Kamwenge in Western Uganda and a contribution to the Gift from the Heart Foundation.
The event starts and finishes at Kennedy Elementary School (3945 Wehrman Ave., Schiller Park). Run or walk at your own pace by yourself or with a group of friends. The event also features a Kid’s Dash and a Special Olympics.
For more information, contact the Project Heart Well Administrator, DJ Narvaez at 773-412-0183. To register, visit www.sd81.org or any District 81 school.
Join your comrades in arms and support the Americanism we represent!
Wounded and aging veterans at Hines HospitalLocal charitable events in our communitiesSocial events•Picnics•ChristmaspartiesforChildren
•Legionsponsoredadultdancenights
•Localschoolawardsandscholarships
•NewYearsEvecelebrations•Specialeventspromotingpatriotism–MemorialDay,Veteran’sDay,Parades&more!
Join your comrades in arms and support theAmericanism we represent!
ATTENTION ALL MILITARY VETERANS
TheAmericanLegionWantsYou!
Gene KorusVice Commander
For Further details ContaCt
American Legion Post 974Veterans Still Serving
the Community
9757 Pacific Avenue • Franklin Park, IL 60131Post Phone 847.678.7474
September 2011 • People & Places 3
Community Briefs“ALL IN FAVOR?”
Schiller Park Village Board Meeting Highlights
The Mayor and Village Board on Tuesday, August 23, 2011 voted on the following items:
•Swearing in of Police Officer Jesus Duron and additional reserve police officer
•Five year lease for a copier for the fire dept. at a cost of $93/month with Konica Minolta
•Three year renewal service contract for technical support services for the Cardiac Defibrillator Monitors with Physio Control Co. at a cost of $9,579.00.
•Payment to Arrow Road Construction Co. for labor and materials as part of the 2011 paving program in the amount of $8,610.08.
•Acceptance of contract with Sheridan Plumbing & Sewer Co. for labor and equipment needed to proceed with the catch basic cleaning of area 5 in the amount of $18,285.
•Pay estimate to Gerardi Sewer & Water Co. as part of the 2011 sewer repair project in the amount of $31,530.60.
•Increase the budget from $25,000 to $50,000 for the generator & check valve grant program.
•Authorize purchase of a 2011 Ford Crown Victoria police pursuit vehicle in the amount of $21,165.
•Waive requirement for competitive bidding for the Village Hall Improvement Project due to the continuation of previous Phase.
•Contract with Bulley & Andrews for Village Hall Renovation work Phase II in the amount of $182,839.
•Contract with LCM Architects for construction documents and supervision related to the Village Hall Renovation in the amount of $19,410.
•Proposal from Durability Construction Inc. to grind and tuck-point the face brick, the west elevation of the Village Hall in the amount of $15,600.
•Several residents attended the meeting and voiced their opinions on the following subjects:
•Flooding issues that continue to plague 4100 block of Atlantic Ave; parkway trees that need immediate attention - Resident 4100 Blk Atlantic
•Alternative energy for residents/solar panels on roofs, ordinances – 9800 Block of Soreng resident
•Obstructions in Crystal Creek by 25th Ave Bridge that may cause additional flooding 4400 Block Emerson resident
•Concerns about possible church/home construction by Soreng Avenue, flooding concerns, dirt in cemetery. 9800 block of Soreng resident.
•Questions on expenditures by Village, old Brown’s Chicken building renovation; possible pizzeria going in there if permit approved, removal of graffiti on fence by end of Atlantic Avenue. Resident of 4300 block of Atlantic.
COMMUNITY NEWS & EVENTS
Dist. 81 School Board Meeting Highlights
•New teachers introduced
•Report on the disposal of excess school property
•Announcement of Project Heart Well 5K Walk/Run October 2
•Budget published in Pioneer Press 8-18-11
•Report on grants received
•Residency checks; 15 students under investigation for not living in Schiller Park. Investigations continue
•Board discussed letterhead options/tabled until next month
•Board voted on 3% raise for classified Staff (bus drivers, janitors, cooks, etc.) 5 Yes, 1 Abstain 1 No Vote.
•Parents of all school districts are encouraged to attend their school board meetings on a regular basis. The majority of our tax dollars are controlled by the schools and as taxpayers; you have a right to voice your opinion on how that money is being spent.
Scout Troop 16 Holds Court of Honor
On Thursday, August 25th, Scout Troop 16 held its Court of Honor at the Schiller Park Community Center. Scoutmaster Wayne Bernacki said, “This is the time to honor our Scouts for their achievements and receive their awards after returning from summer camp.” Scout Piotr received the Alan Oliver Memorial Scout of the Year Award. Piotr was honored for earning the most points by his participation in Troop meetings, outings and community service projects. Scouts also are awarded points for uniform inspections, rank advancement and merit badges.
In the audience was Malia Oliver, the widow of the late Alan Oliver. Alan was a Cub Pack 191 Committee Chairman and Troop 16 Committee
Chairman plus, Troop Advancement Chairman from 1999 to 2009 before he passed away. He was a “Scouter” who played an intricate part in moving the scouting program forward in Schiller Park. The Troop established the Award in his honor last summer.
Schiller Park Commons Construction
Construction has begun in the Schiller Park Commons with ground breaking for the new Chase Bank. Chase is moving its facility to make room for the new and larger Aldi. Several businesses have already moved out to make room for the expansion. Chase is anticipating opening their new
facilities in late October and once they move out, construction on the Aldi will begin.
Since the Dollar Store has moved out, BB’s Bulgarian Market has added a new Dollar aisle to his store. Visit him today to see what great products he has to save you money!
Pictured are (from left) Joe Molli, Troop Committee Chairman, Piotr Galusza, Wayne Bernacki, Scoutmaster and Malia Dorner-Oliver.
Wouldn’t you like local friends and neighbors to know of a loved one’s passing or honor a dear friend or relative?
Place an IN-MEMORIAM ad in People & Places.Include a photo of your loved one
Affordable rates.
Email: [email protected]: 847-624-1413
4 People & Places • September 2011
Chamber Holds BreakfastThe Franklin Park/Schiller Park
Chamber of Commerce held its annual Community Development Breakfast on Friday, August 26th at the Hampton Inn in Schiller Park. This annual “open to the public” event allows attendees to hear first hand, from the Directors of Community Development, exactly what’s happening with development in their towns. Jeff Eder, Director from Franklin Park, reported on several businesses expanding and more small businesses adding employees. He was especially excited with the possibility of the Elgin/O’Hare expansion project, as Franklin Park was promised more storm water retention if the project goes forward. Three new restaurants have opened up with another restaurant opening up in early October on Franklin Avenue. There is also a possibility a new tenant will be moving into the empty Blockbuster store, but negotiations are still in the works. With the fire destroying the old Super 8 Motel, demolition should take place soon and Franklin Park is looking forward to attracting either new retail
or hotel businesses. They are also feverishly working to find and attract a tenant for the now closed K-Mart store.
Schiller Park’s Director of Community Development, George Sakas explained that “everything is a process but it takes time.” He reported that three new businesses move into Schiller Park each month compared to one or two that move out. A new trucking firm opening in the fall will be moving into the empty facility at 3801 Rose Street and a company called TMC, a national clearing house for consumer goods, moved into a facility on Foster. O’Hare Aerospace Center continues to attract more tenants and they are working with other industrial areas to improve and pave roads to attract more businesses. Schiller Park Commons is going through renovations with a new Chase Bank and Aldi. D’Amato’s and Fongs Chinese opened up on Irving Park Road and the old Brown’s Chicken may have some type of new pizzeria. Mr. Sakas commented that foreclosures seemed to have dropped and it looks like many are being purchased and
renovated. He gave reports on the Crystal Creek project and said that construction should be complete by early 2012 and encouraged everyone to attend the September 11th Car Show and Family Fun Day along with the 9-11 Memorial Ceremony. He concluded his comments with reports on renovations at the village hall and said, “It is cheaper to maintain and renovate current buildings than build new facilities.” The only questions from the audience for Mr. Sakas came from a woman who asked if any businesses will be displaced by the expanding Aldi. Mr. Sakas replied by saying, “Some of the businesses were thinking of retiring or moving out anyway. The owner of the property was trying to find other locations for them.” Another question came from this writer who asked, “Do the Villages of Schiller Park and Franklin Park get any monies from the Des Plaines Casino?” He said, “No, that was part of the Rosemont deal if they got the casino.” He joked that the only thing we might get is additional traffic.
CALL FREEDOM HEATING/COOLING/PLUMBING & ELECTRICAL INC. FOR ALL YOUR NEEDS
9958 W. Grand Ave. • Franklin Park
847-228-1788
We Service all Makes & Models24 Hour Service
FreedomHeating/Cooling/Plumbing & Electrical
$250 OFFAny new
installation packageMust present coupon at time of service.
Not valid with any other special PP
$35 OFFAny repair over $200
Must present coupon at time of service. Not valid with any other special
Some restrictions apply PP
10% OFFSenior
DiscountMust present coupon at time of service.
Not valid with any other special PP
$69Reg. $129.00
(Restrictions Apply)Must present coupon at time of service.
Not valid with any other special PP
16 Point Expert Clean& Precision Tune-Up
When You’re Hot ... They’re
Real CoolIf you are looking for a local,
fami ly owned heat ing and cooling business, look no further than Freedom Heating/Cooling/Plumbing & Electrical on Grand Avenue in Franklin Park. Pete Fiorentino has owned Freedom for five years now. He’s a member of the Chamber of Commerce, Angie’s List and the Better Business Bureau. He has an extensive background in heating and cooling repair and employs f ive employees. He offers 24 hour service, seven days a week and they service all makes and models. Pete commented that he enjoys meeting different people, working with seniors and likes to convey a one on one family feel to his customers. Take advantage of the coupons in his ad and tell him People & Places sent you!
September 2011 • People & Places 5
ATTENTION ADVERTISERS: sponsor “The Pet Corner” and show your support to the care and love of pets. People & Places offers gold, silver and bronze sponsorships with 10% of the fee going back towards a pet shelter. You will receive recognition for sponsoring the page along with your ad if you choose to place one. Call 847-624-1413 or email [email protected] today for details and sponsorship prices.
Park Ridge School Holds Guinness Record
Teachers are seeing double and at times triple at one high school in Park Ridge. Guinness World Records website proclaimed last year’s freshman class at Maine South High School a record holder for “the most multiple birth sets
in the same academic year.” Last year’s freshman class contained 16 sets of twins, and three sets of triplets. Plans are in the works to take a group photo of the now sophomore class when school resumes.
COMMUNITY NEWS & EVENTS
PET HAZARDS IN THE HOME
Pets come in contact with many household items which can harm or kill them. Here is a list of a few of the items that should be kept out of your pet’s reach:
medications (even OTC items such as ibuprofen, aspirin and acetaminophen); vitamins; insecticides; rodent bait;
bleach; disinfectants; mothballs; fabric softener; petroleum products (lighter fluid, gasoline, kerosene, nail polish
remover, etc.); lime/scale remover and tobacco products. If your pet contacts or consumes any of these items, call the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center at 1-888-426-4435
or your veterinarian as soon as possible. Source: Askmyvet.net
Area Market WatchAs of 8-19-11
TOWN AVERAGE
LISTING PRICEMEDIUM
SALE PRICENUMBER OF SALES
HOMES FOR SALE
FORE-CLOSURES
Bensenville $218,238 $105,000 47 127 167
Elmwood Park $194,777 $150,000 79 170 272
Franklin Park $170,809 $125,750 42 88 225
Harwood Heights $274,315 $176,000 28 54 78
Melrose Park $167,995 $104,500 60 132 312
Norridge $265,228 $211,250 30 94 88
Northlake $131,689 $105,000 33 56 145
Park Ridge $479,626 $307,750 106 334 182
River Grove $162,370 $144,750 26 58 100
Rosemont $266,511 $105,000 3 7 9
Schiller Park $186,288 $140,000 44 59 145Source: Trulia.com
Salute to our Soldiers Past and Present
Since People & Places did not receive a submission for the Salute to our Soldiers column (don’t forget to remit those), here is an article about HONOR FLIGHTS FROM MIDWAY AIRPORT. Robert Quinlan of Schiller Park attends these “welcoming” parties and here is what he has to say in his own words.
“If you have never attended one you are missing a lot, especially for military families to see. I attended one a couple of years ago and there was not a dry eye in the place. There were about 75 veterans arriving from Washington and the airport was packed with people just there to see them arrive and greet them. The USO passed out flags and kept the crowd in check and back behind a line so the parade could start through the terminal end to end.
First the motorcycle group Patriot Guard marched all with flags then came Great Lakes Navel training group officers and enlisted sailors and Great Lakes Navy band marched in. Arriving next were the Chicago Fire and Chicago Police marching bands with bagpipes and drums followed by Boy Scouts, Girl Scouts and soldiers of WWII. They marched proud and some had to be moved by wheelchair or walkers assisted by a guardian. However, they were all proud of the welcome they received. The families of the veterans chose to write them letters and they were passed to them on the flight home just like a mail call of that era for soldiers.
This is something youngsters of today should see and be aware of what these people went through for our freedom. I get chocked up just writing about this and the memories of that Honor Flight. Below are the future dates for the Honor Flights at Midway Airport so people can plan on attending. Be at the terminal about 7:30pm to get a good spot in line. The plane will arrive about 8:30pm. You do not need to go through security just park and go into the terminal. Bring a hankie (Kleenex) you will need it.” Check out youtube.com for some great video of these events. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=puFWvCpgwSo&feature=related
UPCOMING HONOR FLIGHT DATES AT MIDWAY AIRPORT
SEPTEMBER 21ST, OCTOBER 12TH AND NOVEMBER 2ND
If you have a current or past soldier you would like to honor, send your photo and small article to People & Places, “Salute to our Soldiers”, 4303 N. Atlantic Ave., Schiller Park, IL 60176. Or, email your submission to [email protected]. Put SALUTE in the subject line. We will print one or more a month, space allowing.
6 People & Places • September 2011
CatVando
The number of cats in our streets is growing. They can be seen at dumpsters, in alleys, in industrial areas and in back yards. Some are feral, un-socialized and afraid of humans. Some are strays, pets that have been left out, left behind or have gotten lost. Some of those stray cats become feral-like after having learned not to trust people.
National statistics indicate that the number of cats in an area can be calculated by taking the population of the area and dividing by 6. Divide by 3.3 for the number of cats living in homes as pets. Due to the economy, more of those pets are joining the ranks of cats living in our streets. Community members are divided by their feelings about cats. In the next few issues we will be reporting on various aspects of community cats, mostly outside cats but some content will apply to inside cats too. We will be working towards solutions for the entire community, human and cats alike.
CatVando, based in Maywood, has been working with individuals and communities to help reduce and care for cats l iving in
the communities of the western suburbs for five years. Over the next few editions, they will share their experience and expertise on addressing this growing issue. They will take us through a process that has been documented to be more effective, more economical and more humane than current methods of reducing our street cat populations and what that entails.
The program, Trap Neuter Return (TNR) is being practiced through much of the world. They will talk about health and disease for inside and outside cats, the politics of TNR and how different communities are handling the issue; nuisance behaviors and deterrents, and neighbor relations. The Humane Society of the United States believes that feral cat overpopulation is a community-generated problem and that every community has a responsibility to work toward a solution.
If you are feeding cats, don’t let them multiply. Contact CatVando for help. Your identity and the location of your colony are always kept confidential.
CatVando is solely supported by donations. For further information, to donate or to volunteer, contact them directly at P.O. Box 212, Maywood, IL 60153, 708-829-6013, [email protected], www.catvando.org
Pet of the MonthMurphy, as he is now named, needs a forever home.
This beauty was first spotted sitting in a tree opposite the kitchen window looking in. It didn’t take long to discover he’s a friendly cat looking for a home. He’s charming and charismatic and greets all visitors. Unfortunately, all we can offer is food, water and shelter on one of the enclosed porches where he’s free to go in and out with the ferals. He needs a home but we can’t take him in. He’s unique,
he has great markings with big feet, thick legs and a small body. He’s about 3 years old and while he gets along with some cats, he doesn’t do well with others. He may be an inside outside cat or, once in, he may never want to venture out again. Won’t you adopt him and give him the home he needs? Call today 708-829-6013 or email [email protected]
CatVando is a Trap Neuter Return Group working in our communities. All cats come altered, up to date on shots, micro-chipped, free of fleas and parasites and tested for feline disease.
60153, 708-829-6013, [email protected], www.catvando.org
kitchen window looking in. It didn’t take long to discover he’s a friendly cat looking for a home. He’s charming and charismatic and greets all visitors. Unfortunately, all we can offer is food, water and shelter on one of the enclosed porches where he’s free to go in and out with the ferals. He needs a home but we can’t take him in. He’s unique,
CatVando is a Trap Neuter Return Group working in our communities. All cats come altered, up to date on shots, micro-chipped, free of fleas and parasites and tested for feline disease.
THE PET CORNER
Pets Are His CallingEven as a two year old playing
“doggie doctor” to the family pets, Dr. Miller knew he wanted to be a vet. At the time Dr. Miller was studying, you had to learn medicine for all types of pets, not just cats and dogs. That meant working on all animals big and small, horses and even snakes. Today’s students can now specialize in the type of animal they’d like to work on, small or large. The students are tested on their field of specialty now.
Dr. Miller commented that during his years as a vet, snakes, chinchillas and rats were probably the strangest animals he had to work on. “I don’t work on those any more. It’s more of a specialized field of work. Some snakes can run five to six thousand dollars, and some of the exotic birds can go up to fifteen thousand dollars; so you’d better know what you are doing.” How do you examine a snake? Maybe that’s a question for “Ask Your Vet”.
In 1974 Dr. Miller off icially started in practice at the Franklin Park Veterinarian. He worked there for ten years until he opened his own practice in Schiller Park. His practice includes over eight thousand patients and he sees approximately 100-110 a week.
When asked what the hardest part of his job was he replied, “Probably the long hours but then too seeing the people having to put to sleep an animal, especially a young animal. They get attached; it gets a terminal illness like a cancer and they haven’t had it very long, so that’s hard. Even the people who have had an animal for a long time but they know they have to put them down. That’s hard too.” However, Dr. Miller stated that if an animal is suffering its part of his oath to relieve that pain and suffering. “It’s the humane thing to do.”
There are some funny sides though to his practice. He relayed that one time he was struggling to cut the nails on a big dog. The dog got his paw caught in his pant leg and ripped his pants straight down. There are other times when an animal will get loose in the building and they have to chase him down. ‘It’s comical at times.’
Dr. Miller truly enjoys what he does and loves being in Schiller Park. You can see how much he cares for his four legged friends and the dedication to his practice. It’s obvious to the many patients that trust their pets to him; his childhood dream was his calling.
Dr. Miller and the Animal Care Hospital of Schiller Park are located at 9726 Irving Park Road. Appointments are necessary so call 847-671-5258.
September 2011 • People & Places 7
What’s on Your Mind?Here’s your chance to state what’s on your mind on any issue important to you or you feel is significant.
“Best of Luck” I am happy to see a Local Paper
with Local News back in print. It was a long time coming. I wish you the best of luck with your endeavor. Keep up the good work. My subscription is in the mail. Jim
NoisyHow about a irport noise
pollution? What can be done? The noise level is worse not better. Where are our windows and sound insulation? I’m glad we finally have a local newspaper. Good luck and best wishes for your success.
Calling All Cops Love the new publication, and we
would really like to see the “Police Blotter” section expanded.
Regards, Delighted SP Residents
Love your paper. Thank you.
“Enjoyed Every Page”Picked up a copy of People
& Places at the car wash today. Enjoyed every page. We need a neighborhood paper.
“Fine Them”Garage Sales! What about them?
Signs! They put up every where but do not take them down. Fine them! I went to my village a couple of years ago. Answer? “We don’t know who they are! Da! Their address is on the sign!
“Swap or Swipped?”The other day I picked up the
premiere issue of the People & Places August issue. I began reading the paper and came across an article about Schiller Park approving a land deal with Chicago. I’m a bit confused by the deal being called a swap. Looks as though Schiller Park is giving Chicago money. As a taxpayer for many years in this town, I’m a little concerned about a deal as large as this was never brought to the attention of homeowners and businesses that pay into the coffers of the City to enable them to have $3-6 million to buy 9 acres of land and also to spend $255,481 on 1 acre of land. This needs more media attention along with some serious explanations to a lot of taxpayers in this town. Would it not make more sense that this swap would go more like Chicago giving these 10 acres or more of land to Schiller Park in exchange of letting Chicago annexing the 190 acres that they want? This is what a swap is like not the buying of land with money that’s called purchasing not swapping. Who in their right mind would approve such a crazy deal? You would be doing a great service to all in Schiller Park if this was looked at a lot closer and get some answers. Concerned Taxpayer
Obey Speed Limits30 miles a minute down streets
that have 10 mile speed limit and speed bumps (side streets)
Step Up!Special request to all children
returning to school in the next few days; If you see someone who is struggling to make friends or being bullied because he/she doesn’t have many friends or because they are shy, not as pretty or not dressed in the most “in” clothes – PLEASE step up. Say hi or at least smile at them in the hallway. You never know what that person might be facing outside of school. Your kindness might just make a BIG difference in someone’s life!
Water Fountains Are Not For Dogs!
Hi, I have seen people allowing their dogs to drink water out of the water fountain at the Kennedy Park. People should provide water for their dogs before going out or after the walk. It is not sanitized for people using the water fountain after the dog use.
China Cleaner? This is in response to the article
“Litter Bugs” in last month’s Open Forum. China has 1,000,000 more people than we do. Wherever you look there is not 1 ounce of litter on the streets. They are so clean you can eat off them.
Does it Help? I just came from the Village Board
meeting. The mayor kept saying they have been cleaning out the sewers and catch basins for years. Instead of just cleaning out these sewers, how about spending the money on replacing them with bigger ones? All this money on supposedly cleaning and taking video of the sewers and has it really helped? Don’t expect different results when you keep doing the same thing. We need real solutions to our flooding problems and a plan to alleviate it! I’m tired of hearing how it’s the amount of rain we are getting that is causing the problem. Florida gets big rain on a daily basis and they don’t have flooded streets every day. What do they know that we don’t? No it’s our old sewer systems. Even the mayor said they are a hundred years old. If the village would have had a plan to start replacing these sewers 20 years ago, we might not have this problem now. I’m so angry! Stop passing the blame and somebody do something that works! Thanks for listening. By the way, liked your paper.
Who’s Profiting? Hello, I’d like to know who is
sharing in the profits from the Des Plaines casino. Is it just Des Plaines or do other villages get a portion of the profits? Some towns may see increased traffic and crime. Shouldn’t they be compensated?
Submit YOUR opinion. Call 847-624-1413 or send us an email at [email protected]. Message must be brief, to the point, no vulgarity, as this is a family newspaper. Please speak plainly and slowly. Opinions expressed in the Open Forum are the opinions of the submitters and not necessarily the opinion of People & Places and/or the publisher.
OPEN FORUM
Jules CuomoServing up a mix of kid’s songs, patriotic songs, sing-alongs, and even some Elvis, his set is sure to please the birthday boy or girl. If that wasn’t enough, how
about a game of “Live Music Hot Potato”?
–– 45 Minute Set of Live Music: $80 ––
The Jules & NiCk DuoHaving a barbecue or block-party? Jules & Nick are an acoustic-based Pop-Rock, Blues, & Rockabilly
duo, performing songs from the 1950s - 2000s. Song list is available online.
–– Two 45-Minute Sets of Live Music: $250 ––
Make Your Kid’s Birthday Party Memorable with
LIVE MUSIC
708-278-1501 - www.CuomoMusic.com8 People & Places • September 2011
Summer Camping with Troop 16
Reported by Scoutmaster Wayne Bernacki
Boy Scouts from Schiller Park Troop 16 sponsored by the Knights of Columbus, Ave Maria Council and accompanied by Scoutmaster Wayne Bernacki, enjoyed seven days at Camp Napowan swimming, boating, doing archery and rif le and shotgun shooting, all while trying to earn merit badges and other BSA (Boy Scouts of America) awards. Troop 16 joined over 375
other campers on the trip. Along with evening campfire
programs, one of the highlights of the trip is the “Muzzle Loading” at the rif le range. Scoutmaster Bernacki encourages the Scouts to try shooting the muzzle loaders each year. “Once they fire that first shot, they are hooked by the opportunity to try something really different.” The boys also try their skills at archery shooting at 3D animal targets. Safety is #1 with the BSA and BSA guidelines require all participants take part in a safety briefing prior to any shooting being done.
Camp Napowan is unique in that it has a full working metal forge. The forge is located in “Flintlock Village”, an 1870’s replica town. Scouts can a throw a tomahawk at a target, make their own old fashioned candle and participate in a tug-o-war “Flintlock-style” while balancing on logs. Scouts work on basketry, pottery, wood carving and Indian lore merit badges. They also try to bend a souvenir spike after heating it, red-hot, in the forge by stoking the fire and using the billows to heat the coals.
Archery tournaments are held, and f irst year camper Pawel Galusza, 17, of Schiller Park, became Napowan’s new archery champ after an intense and exciting competition.
First year Campers, Sean Cychosz, Pawel Galusza and
Michael Valdez earned their CAPS recognition for completing several requirements at each area of camp.
On Saturday morning at the closing ceremonies, the Camp Commissioner announced that Troop 16 had earned the “Lord Baden Powell Award” for superior achievement, passing campsite inspections and completing a camp service project. This award marks the 10th consecutive year Troop 16 has been recognized as one of the Top Troops in Camp with this award.
Scoutmaster, Wayne Bernacki was joined by three other adult leaders from Troop 16, Joe Molli, Miguel Valdez and Brian Cychosz. Six Scouts attended camp, Senior Patrol Leader, Jacob Molli, Troy & Sean Cychosz, Piotr and Pawel Galusza and Michael Valdez. The Scouts earned 20+ merit badges plus, BSA Snorkeling and Kayaking Awards.
A fter camp, the 7th year Scoutmaster likes to ask the Scouts; “So, do you think any of your friends did anything nearly as cool as you did this week?” “No way”, said first-year Camper, Michael Valdez. It was a unanimous response!
Next up, Troop 16 will attend the Illini Jamboree in September down at Champaign/Urbana, as the Scouts will see a Fighting Illini Football game and camp on the U of I campus.
If you are a boy between 11 & 17 and interested in joining Troop 16, contact Wayne Bernacki, Scoutmaster at 847.671.0330. Troop 16 meets twice a month on Thursday evenings at the Schiller Park Community Center. Fall meetings begin on September 8th. The BSA provides a program for young people that builds character, trains them in the responsibilities of participating citizenship, and develops personal fitness. The Boy Scouts of America believes — and, through over a century of experience, knows — that helping youth is a key to building a more conscientious, responsible, and productive society. For more information visit www.scouting.org
9626 Grand Ave., Franklin Park, IL 60131
847-455-6730
Floors & Walls Unlimited, inc.Benjamin Moore Paint Dealer
Tile • Wood • Laminate • Vinyl • Carpets • Blinds
FabUloUs FlooringFor Every Room in Your Home
Looking to Remodel?Visit the experts! Family
owned and operated Floors and Walls Unlimited has been serving customers for almost 40 years. They are a complete home decorating center offering name brand paint, laminate f loors, ceramic and porcelain tile, carpet installations, bathroom remodels, glass tiles and wallpaper. Find just that right paint color or wallpaper pattern that suits your tastes. Unlike the big box stores, owners, Elaine and Bob are there to offer
you knowledgeable, personalized and friendly service at competitive rates. Stop in their store today and see the difference outstanding customer service makes!
The Perfect Place for Your Perfect Day
Galaxy Banquets & Catering
www.galaxybanquets.net
Let Galaxy Banquets be the back drop to all your party and special occasion scrapbooks!
Call to schedule a banquet room walk-through!
(847) 928-0187
Up to 300 Guests in Our Elegant Banquet Room (Min. 100)
• Professional Catering Staff• Weddings • Anniversaries
Cotillions • BaptismsBridal/Baby Showers • All Social Events
Corporate Functions
4663 N. RubySchiller Park IL 60176
September 2011 • People & Places 9
St. Beatrice NewsCARDINAL FRANCIS GEORGE will
be at St. Beatrice Church to celebrate the Archdiocesan Mass for Life, sponsored by the Respect Life Office. All are invited to attend this mass on September 11th at 12:15pm. A reception will follow in the Parish Hall (school building) where you will have a chance to meet the Cardinal.
RUNNING FOR ST. BEATRICEFr. Robert Schultz of St. Beatrice
Parish will be running in the Chicago Marathon for the first time on October 9, 2011. He is running the marathon not only as a personal goal, but also to raise money for St. Beatrice Parish. He is seeking sponsorships for his 26.2 mile run. All monies collected will be used to make much needed repairs to the heating and A/C system in the school building. This building is used by their CCD program, Sunday Bingo, parish meetings and events, and a tenant leasing the building.
If you wish to support Fr. Rob in his quest, send checks made out to “St. Beatrice Church” and please write “marathon” in the memo line. You may drop checks off at the rectory or mail to St. Beatrice Church, 4157 Atlantic Ave., Schiller Park, IL 60176.
MARKET DAY RETURNS! Market Day orders are now being
taken for delivery on September 3rd. Each monthly order benefits the church and 5% of your order is tax deductible! Ordering is easy on line or through order forms found at church.
Check out www.marketday.com and PURCHASE WITH A PURPOSE!
BINGO! St. Beatrice holds Bingo every
Sunday. Doors open at 3pm, Speed Ball starts at 4:45 and Regular Bingo begins at 5pm. Jackpots as high as $500! Food and refreshments are available for purchase. Anyone 18 years and older are welcome to attend. Fun every Sunday! Watch for the $10,000 RAFFLE EXTRAVAGANZA coming Sunday, October 30, 2011. $100 Pre-Buy In. Tickets available now.
ENJOY WATCHING FOOTBALL? Enjoy it more when you play
FOOTBALL MANIA! Simply purchase a $20 ticket from St. Beatrice. Guaranteed winner each week. First game starts September 8th and continues through the football season. For tickets call 847-678-1038.
RELIGIOUS EDUCATIONDon’t forget to register your child
for CCD – Contact Zerlina Kirchen at 847-671-6429 or email [email protected]
TOOTSIE ROLL CAMPAIGNHeld annually by the Knights of
Columbus to “Help Citizens with Intellectual Disabilities.” Friday and Saturday, September 16 & 17th at various traffic light locations in Schiller Park. Please give generously to this worth cause.
ADVERTISERS! Sponsor People & Places School/Church news page with your ad. We have Gold, Silver and Bronze sponsorships which will help this paper continue to publish events in the Leyden Township area. Call 847-624-1413 or email [email protected] to find out further information on how your business can help support area schools and churches.
LOCAL CHURCH NEWS
Allegra Banquets O’Hare’s “Suite”-est New Secret
Make Your WeddingSimply Unforgettable!
Hosting Groups from20 - 250
Premium Open Bar
Complimentary Suite for Bride & Groom
Discounted Hotel Rate for
Banquet Guests
Unbelievable Friday& Sunday Packages
Receptions to Fit All Budgets
Wedding ReceptionsCeremonies ~ Showers
Christenings
4200 N. River Road Schiller Park, Illinois 60176 (Irving Park & River Road) www.AllegraBanquets.com
(Located inside the Comfort Suites, O’Hare Hotel)
847-987-0897
Great Food!
Great Prices!
(Located inside the Comfort Suites, O’Hare Hotel)
Buy One Entree and Get a Second One of
Equal or Lesser Value
With Coupon. Minimum $10 Purchase. Exp. 10/1/11
2 for 1 Entrees
FREE PP
LegendsSports Bar
10 People & Places • September 2011
St. Maria Goretti NewsSt. Maria Goretti School is now accepting new registration for its Pre-K
through 8th grade classes. St. Maria Goretti School offers an excellent academic program and daily religion classes. Enrichment programs of computers, physical education, library, music, Spanish, drama and art are built into the curriculum.
Students may participate in our competitive Athletic Program, which offers opportunities in basketball, volleyball, and cheerleading. Other extracurricular activities include: National Junior Beta Club, Student Council, Band, Girl Scouts and Boy Scouts. In a beautiful child-centered environment attached to our school, we offer a 12 month Children’s Center facility. Students, age 3 and older, will be able to utilize the Children’s Center, 5 days per week, before and after school, school days off, and all summer from 6:30am-6:00pm.
Please feel free to call for more registration information (847) 678-2560 or come to the school office between the hours of 8:00am-4:00pm to register. Those registering Pre-Kindergarten and Kindergarten students must present a birth certificate at time of registration. Plan to register immediately. Waiting lists are made when class sizes reach their limit.
St. Maria Goretti also offers Religious Education Classes. For information, contact Dr. Donna Cascino 847-678-2561. Classes begin Saturday, September 10th.
If your school or church would like to publish upcoming events in People & Places (space permitting), please send your notices to: [email protected]. Put “Church/School Notice” in Subject Line
20 Years Experience • Interior and Exterior, Decks Too!
Call Ziggy at 847-682-2933RefeRences upon Request
Painting andLight CarPentry
ST. BEATRICE CHURCH PRESENTS…
$10,000 RAFFLE EXTRAVAGANZA!SUNDAY, OCTOBER 30, 20114157 ATLANTIC AVENUESCHILLER PARK, IL 60176
Doors Open 2 pm Raffles Begin 3:45 pm
$100 PRE BUY IN TICKETS AVAILABLE NOW!
1 – 18 ON PAPER BOOK1 – BONANZA CARD1 – DINNER1 – DABBER
TICKETS SOLD AT THE DOOR $125.00
For more information contact:St. Beatrice Church – 847-678-0138Len Robaczewski – 847-840-8570
MUSIC SERVICES All Occasions – Weddings, Anniversaries, Birthdays
Mówię Po Polsku
847.867.7561 ~ [email protected]
Beautiful floral arrangements for all occasionsUnique fruit and vegetable creations
Table centerpieces for all seasons
Beautiful floral arrangements for all occasions
Arrangements by Margo
SCHILLER PARK
9350 W. Irving Park RoadSchiller Park, IL 60176Phone: 847.678.5100
Complete Auto and Truck Repair Service• Foreign & Domestic • Complete Engine Analysis• Tune-ups • Brakes • Shocks • Mufflers • Air Conditioning• Emission Repair • Engines • Transmissions • Tires • Alignment
September 2011 • People & Places 11
IN CASE YOU MISSED IT...
Old News is better than No News!
Some of the following local community stories may seem “old news”. However, since many of our villages and towns do not have local newspapers that keep the residents informed of what REALLY is happening in their towns, it’s better to have old news than no news at all! To that end, if you hear of a story that you feel needs reporting, let this publication know! We’ll do our best to get the facts and cover it.
Super 8 Motel Goes Up In Smoke!
In the early morning hours of August 11th, Franklin Park Firefighters starting battling a blaze that would eventually destroy the Super 8 Motel on Mannheim Road. Abandoned for several years due to its business license being revoked for fire code violations, the fire quickly spread throughout the building and eventually collapsed the roof. Numerous neighboring towns responded with fire equipment and it took nearly three hours to get the fire under control. Mannheim Road was closed and didn’t re-open until later in the afternoon. Fire Chief Steve Iovinelli commented that many of the local businesses close to the fire showed a lot of generosity by donating food, water and the use of their bathrooms to the firefighters during the blaze. ”It was really nice of them to do that for us.” Thankfully, no one was hurt and no one was found in the
building. Investigators sent to the scene after the fire found evidence of arson. Franklin Park feels the buildings that make up the motel to be a public hazard and is looking to demolish the building very soon.
Dealing With the Storms Aftermath
Although the storms of June and July are behind us, what lies behind closed doors for hundreds of residents is a disturbing sight. The anguish of people affected by the torrential rains continues with uncertainty of how they will pay for repairs, whose going to help them and why does this continue to happen.
Schiller Park held its Village Board meeting on July 26th and the packed board room had some thunderous outbursts directed towards the mayor, village officials and the Village Engineer, Paul Flood. Although the Board sympathized with the residents, they gave little hope for alleviating future f looding or assisting in cleaning up the devastation residents were faced with. Homeowners were reporting three and even four feet of water in their basements and water throughout the house if they were on
a slab. Cars were totaled, basements and garages under water, appliances damaged and un-repairable. The mayor sympathized with the residents saying, “I understand. It’s horrible to be devastated like that. We got seepage and my carpet got totaled,” which offered little solace to residents whose whole lives have been literally washed away. In response the audience replied, “We’ll trade you.”
Mrs. Iannacco, who lives on Kolze in Schiller Park, said that her husband ended up in the hospital with chest pains, thinking he had a heart attack because of the clean up they encountered. They had over four feet of water in their newly remodeled basement. “We had to tear down our whole basement walls. The floor is coming up, tiles cracking, plus I lost all my records from my work. Everyone took water on our block. My neighbor just finished her basement and she lost everything
even a $4000 bedroom set. I think it’s terrible. It just seemed like something happened.” This writer interviewed several residents who lost an untold amount of possessions including family heirlooms, pictures, furniture and other treasured items. Zerlina Kirchen and her mother, whose house sits lower than two newly built homes on either side of theirs, lost a car and had over forty thousand dollars worth of damage. “It’s devastating,” replied Zerlina, her voice cracking. “We lost possessions that can’t be replaced and the Village is doing nothing for us. We’ve been in Schiller Park over 25 years and we’ve flooded constantly more times than we’ve lived here. The flooding has gotten worse since the houses were built.”
Everyone had a story and several other residents went before the Board to express their complaints and concerns. Many were simply worn out with the constant flooding. One woman takes care of her 96 year old mother whose home’s foundation suffered structural damage; walls are pulling away from the floor. She commented, “I cannot move more sandbags anymore. I need help. Who’s going to help me?” Mayor Montana explained that the Village televises and looks for problems in the sewers. “It’s not that we are not concerned and it’s not that we are not trying. We are just not finding what we are hoping to find; a deficit somewhere that we can fix. We found nothing majorly wrong with our sewers. They just were not built for the population and the rains.” As Mrs. Iannacco said, “My husband walks the floors every time it rains now;” him and hundreds of other residents too.
Tell us your story. How did you weather the storm? Do you have a solution, an idea, or just want to vent? Let People & Places know what you think.
Photos courtesy of Frank Onorati
Reunited At Last! Tony Wasilewski’s stubbornness
has paid off. After four years of grief, testifying before Congress, depression, losing his home, and never, ever giving up, Tony was reunited with his wife and son. Tony’s wife, Janina, was deported to Poland after she allowed a US visa to expire and she didn’t voluntarily leave the country as ordered by officials. Tony stayed behind in Schiller Park to tend to a home-cleaning business the couple had built together after they were
married. However, the stress of his separation from his family led him into a state of depression with talks of suicide. This convinced the U.S. officials that Tony was suffering from “extreme hardship” which allowed the couple to win a waiver of Janina’s 10-year ban from the U.S. Their emotional reunion in August at O’Hare airport was filled with tears of joy and the promise of a renewed life together in the United States. Best Wishes to the Wasilewski Family!
12 People & Places • September 2011
Open MOn-SAT frOM 6AM TO 8pM & SUn frOM 7AM TO 6pM
9700 frAnklin Ave, frAnklin pArk, il 60131
847-260-5551 Or fAX yOUr Order TO: (847) 260-5553
check OUT OUr MenU AT OUr new webSiTe
crySTAlfOUnTAincAfe.cOM
Come be our guest and enjoy a delicious meal in our newly updated, sparkling clean family restaurant or, take
it go on your way in or out of Chicago. Either way, we appreciate your business and look forward to serving you.
crySTAl fOUnTAin cAfeDAILYSPECIALS
15% OFFEntire Bill
With this coupon. Specials not included.
A REA DINING & FOOD
Crystal Fountain Café & Diner Same owners as the former Four Seasons Restaurant, Crystal Fountain Café is conveniently located near the Franklin Park Metra Train Station at 9700
Franklin Avenue in Franklin Park. They serve large portions of great home-cooked meals including super low-priced breakfast, lunch and dinner specials, scrumptious soups and awesome salads. Plus, customers say they have the absolute best burgers and Reuben sandwiches in Chicagoland! Be their guest in their newly updated, sparkling clean restaurant (which offers FREE Wi-Fi) or call in (847-260-5551) and take your order to go on your way in or out of Chicago. Gus, George and the entire staff appreciate your business and look forward to serving you!
• BulgarianSpecialties
• FreshMeats• Vegetables• Breads• NEW!DollarItems
IrvingParkRoad•SchillerParkEmail [email protected] We look forward to satisfying your sweet tooth craving.
sapphirecupcakes.com
SapphireCupcakes
We are a Online Cupcake Factory expanding in the Chicago Area &
Surrounding Suburbs. We specialize in bold combinations of flavors.
Anything goes from Keylime Coconut to Sweet Potato Spice.
We Service: Reunions • Parties • Kids Parties • Baby & Bridal Shower • MeetingsRehearsal Dinners • Graduation Parties • Weddings
TO ADVERTISE WITH PEOPLE & PLACES CALL 847-624-1413 OR EMAIL [email protected]
September 2011 • People & Places 13
Dining with Bonnie and JerryPoor Phil’s - Come for the beer and stay for. . .well, the beer.
This month’s quest for wonderful suburban dining takes Bonnie and I (and guests) to Poor Phil’s Shell Bar in Oak Park. This month we are joined by our good friend and colleague, Scott Kupferschmidt, a wine wholesaler and graduate of the Culinary Institute in New York and Justin Wenzelman and Lindsey Campos, good friends and fellow well traveled foodies.
Atmosphere: Poor Phil’s is located on Marion
Street in Oak Park. The outdoor seating looked comfortable and would offer a nice view of the area. Given the stormy weather, it had been raining and storming for a few hours previous, our group sought shelter inside. (I assure you, it was the weather and NOT the fact that the Bears pre-season had just started.) This was the first time I had actually been seated inside and was a bit surprised at the decor, as there seems to be a lack of theme. The furniture and color scheme tend to suggest Irish pub, yet the large statue of Poseidon behind the bar nods to a nautical theme as do the menu selections. The fact is, while nothing inside is particularly horrifying, nothing stands out and a lack of cohesion had us all feeling as though we were in just another haphazardly decorated bar. Festive, for sure. But nothing special. RATING: (INDOOR DINING) (OUTDOOR DINING)
Quality and Execution: The reviews were mixed. The
consensus was that, overall, the seafood was fresh. That being said, the consensus was also that the spicing was bland almost across the board. The high points were: the nicely spiced Chicken Tortilla Soup in a loose broth, the Crabby
Hardshell Combo served with a mustard dipping sauce that featured just enough tang to offset the sweetness of the fresh crab, the Garlic Fingers (nicely spiced garlic crab claws), and the Crab Cake Sandwich which was lightly breaded and allowed the crab to shine instead of being hidden behind the breading which is the unfortunate demise of so many crab cakes out there. The low points or f lawed dishes were: Philz Fish Tacos which were bland, underwhelming and subject to my previous concern of being hidden behind breading and served with an uninspiring take on Spanish rice, the Lobster Roll, which while solid in f lavor and served on an authentic New England Roll (which Justin was very happy about) was unfortunately doused in enough mayonnaise to negate any originality of f lavor, the Bomb Burger, which while perfectly acceptable bar food, certainly wasn’t winning any culinary awards and almost all of the side dishes, which were uniformly bland. The choices themselves are intriguing and inspired including mashed sweet potatoes and mac n’ cheese, but the execution was f lawed. The sweet potatoes were bland as was the mac n’ cheese (“think grade school lunch”, offers Justin). Bonnie and I are mussel fanatics and sampled the Garlic Mussels and were once again disappointed. The sauce was heavy on butter and low on wine and f lavor. It was also served with two small pieces of bread leaving a nearly filled bowl of potential dipping sent back to the kitchen to be wasted, which is somewhat sad. RATING:
Value: This was a difficult category to
rank as we were not thrilled with the overall quality or the execution of the dishes, nor were we inspired by the spicing. However, given the location, innovation of the beer list and that the freshness of the seafood was abundantly evident, I believe three and a half stars is more than fair. RATING:
Innovation: This is the part where Poor
Phil’s begins to have glimmers of brilliance. The beer list here is very impressive. It features excellent choices spanning Belgium and American craft beers to Lambic and more common staples as well. They even have a hand pump selection which runs out quickly, so consider yourself lucky to receive any on a Saturday night. This night they were featuring Arcadia IPA on the hand pump, which they were out of. However, the staff is knowledgeable about their beer list and navigated me to a very acceptable replacement, while also impressing Scott and Bonnie with their selections and expertise. Lindsey and Justin were running the half-marathon the next day, but they assure me that both the water and iced tea were exceptional. RATING:
Overall Impression: All in all, Poor Phil’s seems to
struggle with a crisis of identity. The seafood selections represented East Coast, West Coast and Creole/Cajun and the more standard fare suffered from uninspired seasoning and overall lack of passion. However, the freshness of the seafood and the excellent beer list leave me wanting to give this somewhat unique establishment another chance. One piece of advice I would offer the owner: a bit more focus, vision and cohesion might be the ticket to greatness. Come to think of it, I might offer the Chicago Bears the same advice. OVERALL RATING:
Poor Phil’s Shell Bar, 708-848-0871 139 S. Marion Street, Oak Park
As usual, if you would like to suggest a dining establishment for review, send your request to [email protected].
A REA DINING & FOOD
Mon: 10am-3pm • Tues-Fri: 10am - 9pm • Sat: 12-9pm • Sun: Closed
4663 N. Ruby • Schiller Park • (847) 928-2277www.hubcapsbarandgrill.net
Delivering to:Schiller Park, Franklin Park, Melrose Park, Northlake, O’Hare, River Grove, Maywood, Norridge, Harwood Hts., Niles, Des Plaines,
Rosemont, Park Ridge, & Surrounding Areas
XL 18-inchTwo-Topping
Pizza
HalfSlab of RibsWith French Fries
& Slaw
Buy any large pizza with 1 topping or more, get a
FREE Spaghetti or Mostaccioli dinner with
meat or marinara sauce!
With the purchase of2 Large - 1 Topping
Pizzas
Any order of $15 or more
4 PieceChicken Dinner
With Fries & 1 SideMacaroni, Pasta Salad,
Potato Salad or Cole Slaw
With Coupon. One Coupon per customer. Not valid with other offers. Expires 8-30-11
With Coupon. One Coupon per customer. Not valid with other offers. Expires 8-30-11
With Coupon. One Coupon per customer. Not valid with other offers. Expires 8-30-11
With Coupon. One Coupon per customer. Not valid with other offers. Expires 8-30-11
With Coupon. One Coupon per customer. Not valid with other offers. Expires 8-30-11
With Coupon. One Coupon per customer. Not valid with other offers. Expires 8-30-11
only
only
$1500
only $995 $995
FREEPasta
$300
Off
FREE
10 ” Pizza
PP
PP
PP
PP
PP
PP
Dine-In Carry-Out • Delivery
14 People & Places • September 2011
9416 West Irving Park Road Schiller Park, IL.Come in or call us at: (847) 678-0400We look forward to seeing you soon!
Monday-Saturday 7:00 a.m.-6:00 p.m. Sunday 8:00 a.m.- 3:00 p.m.
7/5/11 5:54 PMProducts
Page 1 of 1http://www.damatobakery.com/products.aspx
Plugin cannot be renderedwith the specifiedparameters.
9416 West Irving Park RoadSchiller Park, Illinois 60176
(847) [email protected]
Storefront Hours: Monday-Saturday 7:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. and Sunday 8:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m.
Products
Here is a preview of some of our products. A full product list will be coming soon.
A Variety of Delicious Italian Breads
Sliced Whole Wheat Bread
Filone: A Home-style Italian Bread
Italian Pizza Bread
Sesame Breadsticks
White Frezzelle
Nick & Frank D'Amato Bakery, Inc. © 2011 All Rights Reserved.
7/5/11 5:54 PMProducts
Page 1 of 1http://www.damatobakery.com/products.aspx
Plugin cannot be renderedwith the specifiedparameters.
9416 West Irving Park RoadSchiller Park, Illinois 60176
(847) [email protected]
Storefront Hours: Monday-Saturday 7:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. and Sunday 8:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m.
Products
Here is a preview of some of our products. A full product list will be coming soon.
A Variety of Delicious Italian Breads
Sliced Whole Wheat Bread
Filone: A Home-style Italian Bread
Italian Pizza Bread
Sesame Breadsticks
White Frezzelle
Nick & Frank D'Amato Bakery, Inc. © 2011 All Rights Reserved.
NOW OPEN
7/5/11 5:54 PMWelcome to D'Amato Bakery!
Page 1 of 1http://www.damatobakery.com/default.aspx
Plugin cannot be renderedwith the specifiedparameters.
9416 West Irving Park RoadSchiller Park, Illinois 60176
(847) [email protected]
Storefront Hours: Monday-Saturday 7:00 a.m. -
6:00 p.m. and Sunday 8:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m.
Now Open For Business!
D'Amato's Bakery is a family owned business that is operated bybrothers, Nick and Frank D'Amato. We are committed to providing ourcustomers with only the highest quality of fresh baked goods that are allnatural with NO PRESERVATIVES. Our bakery specializes in a variety ofproducts, including old world breads, focaccia's, and pizza's that arebaked using recipes that have been passed down generation togeneration for over 40 years.
D'Amato's Bakery is currently serving our wholesale customers in the
Chicagoland area and surrounding suburbs. Please contact Nick or Frank
D'Amato at (847)-678-0400 for a full list of our available products or set up a
delivery to your business. We can also arrange for a consultant to come out and
meet with you regarding any of our baked goods, and provide samples of any
of our many products.
Retail Storefront Now Open!
Storefront bakery and sub-sandwich shop is now open! Come in for old world
breads baked fresh daily, focaccia, pizza by the slice, as well as a variety of
sub-sandwiches, paninni sandwiches, cookies, pastries, cannolli, and specialty
cakes made to order. In addition, you can enjoy a cup of coffee, espresso, or
cappuccino in our café.
Storefront hours: Monday-Saturday 7:00 a.m.-6:00 p.m.- Sunday 8:00 a.m.-
3:00 p.m.
Website
We will be updating our website regularly. Please check back soon for store hours, online forms, upcoming
specials, and a complete list of our products.
Located in Schiller Park
©2011 Google - Map data ©2011 Google -
View Larger Map
Nick & Frank D'Amato Bakery, Inc. © 2011 All Rights Reserved.
Conveniently located at
9416 West Irving Park Road
in Schiller Park, IL.
Click on the map for directions.
Come in or call us at:
(847) 678-0400
We look forward to seeing you soon!
www.damatobakery.com
Storefront bakery and sub-sandwich shop is now open! Come in for old world breads baked fresh daily, focaccia, pizza by the slice, as well as a variety of sub-sandwiches, paninni sandwiches, cookies, pastries, cannolli, and specialty cakes made to order.
GRAND OPENING SPECIAL!
Buy One Loaf of Bread and Get the Second Loaf
FREECOUPON EXPIRES 10/1/11.
Shortcuts for Fast Weeknight Meals Most people are busy balancing
family life and careers. This can make mealtime challenging. Sometimes it seems easier to go through the drive-thu of the nearest fast-food restaurant than to spend time in the kitchen. But making dinner doesn’t have to be time-consuming or difficult.
It is possible to create healthy meals the entire family will enjoy with planning and smart time management in the kitchen. Here are some tips to make meals in a snap.
Mark the calendarSure it seems like a page right out
of the school cafeteria operations, but planning at least two weeks of meals in advance can alleviate the toughest part of meal creation -- deciding on the menu. Shop for all of the ingredients and stock up the pantry and the refrigerator. Come mealtime, it’s simply grab and cook.
Prep in advanceSome people like to spend
Sunday afternoon pre-cooking
items that will be used during the week. For example, one can bake chicken cutlets that can be used for a variety of meals later on. Or slice and dice items so that the preparatory work is done. Package into individual baggies or bowls for later use. Sometimes the longest time spent on meals is the prep work.
Take some shortcutsNot every meal that is cooked
needs to be entirely from scratch. Mix fresh-made elements with store-bought options. For example, serve barbecued flank steak with prepared salad greens from your grocer’s refrigerated section and cornbread from their bakery.
Consider breakfast foodsBreakfast foods tend to cook
faster and with less prep work than others. One night a week serve pancakes, French toast, omelettes, or Belgian waff les. It’s easy and tasty.
Invest in a slow cookerSlow cookers cook food on very
low heat for several hours. Many now feature programmable displays so a person can punch in the cook time and the slow cooker will automatically shut off when done. Individuals can come home after a long day of work and school with an entire meal fully cooked and ready to eat.
Stir-fry satisfiesMeats and poultry cut into
smaller strips and pieces will cook much faster than an entire steak. Pair this with favorite flavors, such as ginger and teriyaki and seasonal vegetables (fresh or frozen) and serve over rice or noodles. There are dozens of stir-fry recipes a person can create with a little experimentation.
Have leftover nightOne night of the week can be
set aside for leftovers to clean out the refrigerator. Simply reheat and
serve, letting each member of the family concoct a buffet-style meal, featuring a little of this and a little of that.
Make-your-ownFoods that involve participation
are enjoyable and often fast. Tacos, fajitas, personal pizzas, nuggets and dipping sauces -- all of these options are quick to make and eat. Plus, they get the kids involved in meal preparation.
Pastas a plusA pot of pasta can be boiled in 7
to 10 minutes. In roughly the same amount of time, it is possible to put together a sauce to top the pasta, whether oil and garlic, tomato or something cream-based. Pasta should be the go-to dish when a person is short on time and needs a hearty meal.
Cooking for the family during the week can be done quickly and easily with organization and a little know-how.
September 2011 • People & Places 15
Wining with Jerry
Welcome back, wine friends. This month I would like to discuss the art of wine appreciation. As fans of wine we all start in the same place: appreciation. From the moment we sip our first thoroughly enjoyable wine, we get hooked and everything else falls into place from there. But what exactly happens when we sample that life-changing first sip? Lets find out.
Wine tends to engage all of your senses. Often the first is sight. You can learn something of a wine by what you can see. A few questions to ask are: how would I describe this color: is it a white, red or rose? Is the wine opaque or translucent, does the color fade or change as it nears the rim of the glass and do I find the color to be appealing? The best way to gauge these things is to hold the glass up to a white background and tilt the glass slightly. The more wines you analyze the more you will be able to make certain generalizations about wine based on sight. However, it is important to remember that absolute statements should be avoided. Just because an opaque wine usually means it will be more concentrated and denser in flavor does not always mean that will be true. Certain other generalizations one can make about wine based on sight are: as red wines age they tend to take on a brick colored tone and lose color, while white wines tend to gain color and become more golden and less translucent as they
age. One common misconception is that you can determine something of a wine by looking at the “legs”. As you swirl a wine around the glass, the “legs” are the ribbons of wine that form on the inside of the glass coating it and running slowly down the sides. It was once a commonly held belief that thicker legs that drained more slowly back into the glass indicated a higher quality wine. Now we know this to be a fallacy. “Legs” are formed due to a complex equation including the alcohol content of the wine, its rate of evaporation, the thickness of the glass and the surface tension formed by the liquid. It is not indicative of quality.
Next is scent. The best way to engage this sense is to swirl the wine in the glass to release the aromatics, then stick your nose in the glass (not the wine, tempting as it may be). Next, inhale. Some people have different methods of inhalation ranging from a long, deep inhalation, to short repeated bursts. Use whatever method works best for you, just remember that your nose fatigues quickly, however, it recovers quickly as well. Once the scents begin to lose potency, re-swirl and take a moment to “reset” your nose by sniffing something else; food, another beverage or even your shirt sleeve will work. Next, try to capture and identify some of the scents in the wine. What is that wonderful scent? Is it mint, leather, fig, currant, cherry, lemon, orange zest or something else entirely? All of these scents are common in wine and they just get crazier from there. The best judges of wine in the world are the ones with the best memory of scents and the ability to recall them on command. The best way to practice and increase your “scent vocabulary” is to smell
everything. Next time you are in a grocery store, go ahead and start sniffing. Before you eat anything, smell it. Believe me, once you start, you will be swirling and sniffing everything (including your morning coffee) and I promise your awareness of scents in every day life will increase and you will be amazed at how much different your world will be. One word of caution; because so much of wine appreciation is scent related, when you go to a wine tasting refrain from wearing perfume or cologne as it interferes with people’s ability to accurately perceive the wine. We can all agree that Chanel No. 5 is wonderful, but it’s also not what I am looking for in my Sauvignon Blanc.
Once you have swirled and sniffed we can move on to everyone’s favorite part:tasting. Which, sadly, must wait until next time. Let me leave you with this month’s recommendation, which, since I mentioned it previously, will be Sauvignon Blanc. Almost always leaning towards acidity, it is refreshing and light and nimble, which also makes it perfect for paining with shellfish or spicy ethnic cuisine such as Indian, Thai and Chinese. The acidity cuts through the protein of sushi in a
wonderful marriage of flavor as well. Sauvignon Blanc is made all over the world, but the best versions come from the Loire Valley in France, New Zealand and California. Most examples will have a very bright citrus flavor often reminiscent of grapefruit and to varying degrees may have a grassy nature as well. This grassy aspect, while a somewhat acquired taste, is a brilliant and wonderful element to a unique flavor profile. I highly recommend trying one. Here are a couple of examples. •Brancott Sauvignon Blanc,
Marlborough, New Zealeand (an excellent citrus-y example) under $15
•Kim Crawford Sauvignon Blanc, Marlborough, New Zealand (fairly grassy, not for the faint of heart) under $20
•Francis Blanchet, Pouilly-Fume Vieilles Vignes, Loire, France (citrus, mineral, grass, smoke and something so very French) under $25
As usual, if you have any burning questions about wine, please email them to [email protected]
Until next time, Cheers!!
LePoulet RotisserieLePoulet Rotisserie Resturant
rated four stars by People & Places Newspaper in last month’s issue. American Food with a French Flair! Quaint little restaurant that may be hard to find, but is worth the search! (Just look for the red door on Opal.off Belmont Ave.) Our Favorite MUST TRIES are the roast duck, fresh cut fries, rotisserie chicken, of course, and
top it off with crepes. YUM! The meals are always freshly prepared and owner Paul Skrzypczyk and partner Maria Chlanda give great, personalized service. All size parties are welcome. Remember to BYOB if you care to have some wine or beer with your meal. Take advantage of the great value coupons in their ad and tell them People & Places sent you!
A REA DINING & FOOD
With Rotisol Rotisserie We Well Give To Our Customers Delicious, Healthy Roast Chickens And Meats Cooked To Perfection. European Style Cooking Allows Meat To Constantly Baste Itself. Sealing In Natural Juices While Letting Fat Drip Off.
www.LePouletBistro.com
TUES-FRI: 4:00-9:00 PMSAT: 12:30-9:00 PM
SUN: Private Parties Only
MON: Closed
Rotisserie ChickenBYOB Dine-In Carry-Out Catering
Private Parties Available
3205 N. Opal Ave. Chicago, IL 60634Corner of Opal Ave. & Belmont Ave.
773.589.9080
EERF 1/4 Chicken Dinner With Any $10:00 Order
11/51/01 seripxE
EERF 1/2 Chicken Meal With A Purchase Of Whole Chicken Dinner
11/51/01 seripxE
EERF Specialty Sandwich When You Buy A Specialty Sandwich Of Equal Or
Greater Value And 2 Beverages 11/51/01 seripxE
EERF Soup With Any Specialty Sandwich Meal
11/51/01 seripxE
MUST TRYNEWRESTAURANT!
16 People & Places • September 2011
Palermo Bakery – Sweeten Your Life!Loreto, along with his sister
Paola, and brother-in-law Joe, want to bring new business to Palermo Bakery on Rose Street in Franklin Park. “Business has dwindled after some large businesses in the area closed down. We used to get sheet cake orders once a week but no longer. That’s losing over four hundred dollars a month. That’s hard to make up,” Loreto explained. However, he’s determined to bring back the booming business he had in the past.
Pa lermo Bakery of fers a wonderful, cozy atmosphere to sit and talk while enjoying a sweet role for breakfast or a sandwich for lunch. Their traditional Sicilian baking goes hand in hand with the American classic offerings such as soups, stuffed green peppers and peppers and eggs on Friday. “We have an excellent Italian chili and we offer Italian Ice in the summer.” Palermo has a variety of coffee cakes, cookies, donuts, pizza bread, pastries, cakes and of
course all types of breads. My personal favorite is the walnut cinnamon bread; you’ll find it hard not to eat the whole loaf in one sitting!
Palermo Bakery has two locations, one in Franklin Park and the other on Harlem Avenue in Chicago. The Chicago location is celebrating their 10th anniversary in business and although the Franklin Park location has been open for just six years, they are celebrating also by offering .99 cent cannolis. “We make them fresh and only enough so they don’t sit around too long.” The baking business isn’t easy, and Joe gets up at 2 in the morning to
start baking the breads. There are
no holidays in the baking business. “We may close for a couple of days around a holiday, but there is always someone in the back doing or baking something. It’s a 24/7 operation.”
When asked if he remembered any funny experiences, Loreto replied, “Working with family can have its ups and downs. Sometimes it’s like an episode from the Cake Boss; screaming, mistakes here and there; always something going on.” He also told the story about a bride giving them the wrong date for her wedding; one month early.
“We showed up at the banquet hall with the wedding cake and pastries and they looked at us like we were nuts.” The bride ended up paying twice for everything but had a lot of cake and pastries for pre-wedding events. “I cut up the wedding cake for her and she froze a lot of it.”
Loreto invites everyone to visit the Franklin Park location; come in for lunch, try some dessert or take some home. Once you see the variety and taste the freshness Palermo Bakery has to offer, you’ll definitely make a habit of coming back regularly. You can satisfy your appetite along with your sweet tooth. Take advantage of the coupons in their ad. Come in for the free cookie, stay for the delicious food!
Check out Palermo Bakery’s website to see all the wonderful products they offer. You can even order products on-line at: www.palermobakerychicago.com
And remember, tell them People & Places sent you!
Palermo Bakery opened its doors in 1998 as a place for people to find authentic Sicilian cakes, pastries, and breads. Since that time the bakery has become a symbol of Sicilian culture in Chicago. On any day, customers can select from
a large variety of the exquisite pastries and cookies that make Sicilian baking an art form.
Come to Palermo Bakery. Sweeten your life! Addolcisci la tua vita!
Seniors Save 15% on Wednesdays!Buy one pastry,
get a second
Free 10% offany cake or pastry order
over $30
Lunch Special! 6” Sub, Chips or Soup,
12oz. can of soda
$5.99Freecookiewith coupon
Coupon must be presented at time of purchase. Offer valid at Franklin Park
Location ONLY. Expires 9/30/11
Coupon must be presented at time of purchase. Offer valid at Franklin Park
Location ONLY. Expires 9/30/11
Coupon must be presented at time of purchase. Offer valid at Franklin Park
Location ONLY. Expires 9/30/11
Coupon must be presented for FREE cookie. No Purchase Necessary. Offer valid at
Franklin Park Location ONLY. Expires 9/30/11
CHICAGO: 3317 N. Harlem Ave., 773-777-5957 –– FRANkLIN PARk: 3531 Rose St. 847-349-5120
www.palermobakerychicago.com
Come for the cookie, stay for the food!
10 Year Anniversary Special!99¢ cannolis
September 2011 • People & Places 17
Senior SnipsThere’s a new website for adults age 55 and older that can help save
them as much as 15 percent on everything from travel to pet services. At sciddy.com, people can search for everyday discounts by zip code or city; no need to purchase coupons as with Groupon or other similar sites. Sciddy was developed to tap into the increasing buying power of older adults. Several thousand local and national companies are on board. CHECK IT OUT!
UNEMPLOYED OR UNDER-EMPLOYED? In today’s economy it is notably harder on older workers. Unemployed
workers under 55 had on average been jobless for 39 weeks. For those 55 and older, the duration exceeded one year. Here are some tips to help you stay competitive. •Maintain and update your skills.
•Continue to look for work in your field, but don’t reject a job because it pays less than the one you had or because it’s not exactly what you want. It’s easier to get a job if you have one.
•Consider taking community college courses developed with local employers. The move may lead to a job that requires a specific skill set.
•Take advantage of employer-provided training. Training successfully shows what you can do. It may get you promoted or teach you skills to get something better as the economy improves.
•For job resources go to aarp.org/work/job-hunting. Source – AARP Bulletin June, 2011
RETUNE YOUR TVYou can save on your electric bill by reducing the brightness on your high-
definition TV. Many are shipped from the factory set at a “retail mode” of screen brightness that displays optimum picture clarity in a showroom. Go to your TV’s setup menu and look for “home mode” or some other way to dial down the brightness. This reduced electricity consumption and can possibly save you $50 a year! AARP -SK
Percentage of people age 50 plus who say they have used herbal
products or dietary supplements in the past 12 months. 37%
Leyden Credit UnionLeyden Credit Union was
founded by teachers of District 212 in 1955 as Leyden Schools Credit Union. Membership quickly grew to include all school districts within Leyden Township.
In 1994 we became a community credit union welcoming all who live or work in Leyden Township and changed our name to Leyden Credit Union.
We recently added the following six additional townships to our charter: Addison, Elk Grove, Lyons, Maine, Proviso, and York.
All who live, work, or worship in our Field of Membership, as well as their families, are welcome to join Leyden Credit Union and enjoy the benefits of membership with a full service financial institution.
The credit union industry philosophy of “people helping people” has been a basic part of LCU since the beginning, with low-cost loans, excellent savings rates and minimal fees. We continue that tradition today by offering the latest advancements in financial services to our members - at minimal cost.
Back or Neck Pain?If you are in need of chiropractic
services, look no further than 9707 Franklin Avenue in Franklin Park. Dr. David Jordan can help. He’s been in practice for over 25 years and has helped thousands of patients achieve pain free lifestyles. Dr. Jordan not only offers treatment
for back pain, sciatica, neck pain, shoulder pain, headaches, sport injuries, and work-related injuries, he also offers a warm, comforting smile accompanied by informative conversation. Call today for an appointment. 847-451-2232 Se Habla Español
Reported Phone Scam From Resident
Recently, the editor of this newspaper was contacted by a resident who reported she was scammed on the phone by someone trying to sell her an extended warranty on her vehicle. “They were very convincing”, she said; so convincing that she gave them her credit card and authorization to charge her for their “services”. Luckily she was leery after the call and contacted her car dealer only to find out her warranty was not up! With the help of her credit card company, she was able to get a full refund, but not without a fight. She wanted to prevent someone else from getting scammed.
Telemarketing Fraud is becoming more common and targets Senior Citizens with Health Care Fraud,
Counterfeit Prescription Drugs, Funeral and Cemetery Fraud, Fraudulent “Anti-Aging” Products, and Investment Fraud to name a few. Another scary fraud scheme is the one where someone calls to say a grandchild is in trouble and needs to have money wired to them immediately. DON’T FALL FOR IT! Call the parents of the child to find out where they are before even thinking of sending any money. One woman was taken for over four thousand dollars only to find out her grandson was safe at home. For further information on Common Fraud Schemes and what you can do to prevent them, visit the FBI’s website at www.fbi.gov/scams-safety/fraud/fraud.
LEYDEN
VISA GOLDCREDIT CARDFIXED RATEAPR DOES NOT CHANGE 9%
APR
CREDIT UNION‘S2% CashBack Up to$100
Balance Transfer
Blowout!
2701 N. 25th Ave.Franklin Park, IL
847-455-8440www.LeydenCU.org
Membership is available to all who live,work, or worship in Leyden Township.
Receive a 2% cash back reward, up to $100, when you make a balance transfer from any other credit card to a Leyden Visa Credit Card.Offer available only with this coupon. Offer expires August 31, 2011. Offer available to Leyden Credit Union Members only. Membership is available to anybody who lives, works, or worships in Leyden Township. To be a member, a savings account must be opened and $25 must be maintained in the account. The $25 pledge makes you an owner of LCU. Restrictions apply. Subject to qualification. APR=Annual Percentage Rate.
Receive a 2% cash back reward, up to $100, when you make a balance transfer from any other credit card to a Leyden Visa Credit Card with coupon.
BackPain?
Franklin AvenueChiropractic Center
9707 Franklin Ave.Franklin Park, IL 60131
847-451-2232
Feel Better Today!
Dr. David W. JordanChiropractic Physician
18 People & Places • September 2011
Need a Plumber?Drain-EEZ Plumbing is a family owned and operated business with over
30 years of experience. Owners Patrick and Katrina make their home in Franklin Park and are parishioners of St. Beatrice Church. Patrick’s father taught him everything he knew and plumbing is his specialty. Plumbing problems can’t wait, so don’t hesitate! Call Drain-EEZ Plumbing today and tell them People & Places sent you.
TO ADVERTISE WITH PEOPLE & PLACESCALL 847-624-1413 OR EMAIL
We Want to Hear From You!
Complete the questionnaire and return it along with a $10 or more receipt from any advertiser in this paper to be entered into a drawing for a $25 cash prize. Two winners for September. We’d like to find out what is relevant to you and what you’d like to see in future issues. We look forward to hearing from our valued readers. THANK YOU for your help!What type of articles do you want to see more of in People & Places? Check YOUR top five.
Local News Health Articles Senior Living Obituaries School News Classifieds Help Wanted Pet Articles Family Fun Kids Page Cooking Movie Reviews Ethnic Articles Sports Community Calendar
Other ___________________________________________________________
Where did you obtain a copy of People & Places: Store Restaurant Home Delivery From a Friend
Have you shopped at any of the retailers after seeing their ad in People & Places? Yes No Will in Future
On average, how often do you participate in the following activities?
Dining out or ordering take out? 5 or more times a week 1-4 Times a Week 1-3 times a month Seldom/Never
Traveling for business or pleasure? Weekly Monthly 1 or more times a year
Seldom/Never
Visiting a Spa, Beauty Shop or Barber? Weekly Monthly A couple of times a year
Seldom/Never
About your shopping habits… Check each box in the following list indicating if you have purchased that item within the past 12 months.
Women’s Apparel Children’s Apparel Men’s Apparel Electronics Major Appliances Vacation Home Primary Residence Media Services New or Used Vehicle !
About you…
Age Group Under 18 18-24 25-34 35-44 45-55 55 & Over !
Family Status Single Married Widow/Widower Separated/Divorced Other
Number of Children living at home? _____
Do you Rent or Own your Home? Own Rent Live w/parents !
Annual Household Income Under $25,000 $25,000-$34,999 $35,000-$49,999 $50,000-$74,999 $75,000-$100,000 $100,000 & Over
To enter your opinion and have a chance at one of twenty-five $25 Resturant.com gift certificates, fill out the form below and mail entire survey today!
NAME
ADDRESS
CITY STATE ZIP
TELEPHONE
SEND SURVEY/ENTRY TO:PEOPLE & PLACES NEWSPAPER, ATTN: OPINION SURVEY
4303 N. ATLANTIC AVENUE, SCHILLER PARK, IL 60176
PC-DEE 708-557-7818
Complete Computer Repair Service
Software Installation
Virus Removal
Upgrades/ Custom Computer Build
Mówię po polsku
NEED A PLUMBER NOW?WHY WAIT?
CALL DRAIN-EEZ PLUMBING NOW
(847)671-0171FAST DEPENDABLE SERVICE
24/7
YOUR
Senior Specials
$25OFF
• Toilets/Tubs/Sinks• Anydrainproblemcorrected• SumpPumps/EjectorPumps• WaterHeaters/Faucets
WE DO IT ALL FOR LE$$September 2011 • People & Places 19
Fast, Simple, Meals on a Budget
If you’re trying to watch your budget but still prepare fast, satisfying meals, we hope this column will help you with some affordable meals your whole family will enjoy.
BAKED RAVIOLI AND SPINACHToss together one 15-ounce bag
frozen cheese ravioli, one 6-ounce bag fresh spinach, and one 24-ounce jar marinara in a 2-quart baking dish. Bake, covered, at 400 degrees F until cooked through, 25 minutes. Top with grated mozzarella.
GRILLED CHEESE AND TOMATOButter outsides of thick-sliced
bread. Sandwich together sliced tomato and plenty of Monterey Jack cheese. Grill on medium-low heat until toasted on both sides and cheese is melted.
ENJOY! If you have a fast and simple recipe that’s a family favorite, submit it for publication to People & Places Newspaper to [email protected]
Ten Tips to Toilet Training Your Toddler!
Quick, Easy and Effective; Just in Time for Pre-school!By Wendy Sweeney, RN
BOOTY CAMP “Potty Talk” “Say”1. Feel that your pants are dry! Good, because that’s your responsibility.2. Great job for keeping your pants dry.3. If you have to go potty, walk over to the potty, pull your pants down
and go potty in the potty.4. It’s your responsibility to do all your pee and poop in the potty.5. You should be so proud of yourself for having dry pants.6. You may have that when there is pee or poop in the potty.7. Do not go pee or poop in your pants or you’ll have to clean it up.8. I know your listening to your body because your pants are dry.9. It’s unacceptable and we are not going to tolerate you going pee and
poop in your pants.10. You may have a toy or watch 15 minutes of TV when there is pee or
poop in the potty. Keep the child in one common area in your home in just their underwear.
Let the child earn privileges when there is potty in the potty.
“Don’t Say”,1. Do you have to go potty?2. An accident is okay
Never ask stupid questions and never ask questions you don’t want the answers to!
Remember, it’s not about you or your reaction. It’s about the child being proud of themselves and continuing the behavior.
Wendy Sweeney is a pediatric/neonatal ICU nurse and the mother of six. Booty Camp was created almost ten years ago and to date has successfully trained over a thousand children and has helped thousands of families with potty training, behavioral modification, parental coaching and nutrition. Mrs. Sweeney has been recognized in People Magazine, on the Today Show along with many other media outlets.
The Complete Booty Camp Potty Training Parental Instructional DVD/CD Set is available on the web site at www.bootycampmom.com.
Looking to Lose Weight?Try a smaller plate! Research shows that by using a smaller plate you eat less. Today’s massive plates make a reasonable amount of food look tiny, so using a smaller plate tricks the mind into thinking you’re
eating more. Just be careful you don’t overload that plate or keep going for seconds! Also, portion control is the key and remember to BREATH
while you eat. Savor the aroma of your food before it even hits your mouth. Deep breathing helps you slow down and enjoy every bite!
EAT ASPARAGUSRather than blanching or sautéing the stalks, try eating them raw. Katie Sweeny of yumsugar.com recommends shaving raw asparagus with a vegetable peeler into paper-thin slices for a salad or a side dish.
Percentage of men who are now the primary grocery shoppers in the family.
Source: Advertising Age via Yahoo 51%
PEOPLE & PLACESHEALTH & FITNESS JUST
HEALTHfortheofit
Healthy HeartzzzzNow you have an excuse for dozing
off at your desk. Researchers at the Harvard School of Public Health and the University of Athens studied more than 23,000 Greeks with no history of heart disease over a six year period. They found that those who napped during the day had a 34 percent lower risk of dying from heart disease than those who did not nap. Those who napped regularly, taking a 30-minute siesta at least three times a week, had a 37 percent lower risk. The benefit was most dramatic among working men who napped at midday, whether occasionally or regularly; They had a 64
percent lower risk. One possible reason is a reduction in job-related stress.
Flash! Here’s an incentive to go easy on the salt: Research shows that a high-salt diet makes the bacteria that trigger stomach ulcers more virulent. About half of U.S. adults ages 60 and older are infected with the nasty bugs.
Keep Healthy - Keep Fit - Walking not only relieves stress, it helps you lose weight and keeps you limber. For busy people on the go, fitting in just two ten minute walk sessions a day can add years to your life and mental health.
20 People & Places • September 2011
Splendor Salon & Spa4738 n. Cumberland ave. ~ Chicago ~ 773-625-0200ave. ~ Chicago ~ 773-625-0200a
www.splendorsalon.comMówię po polsku
ServiceS Offered:Hair deSign, Color and TreaTmenTS
FaCialS ~ Body TreaTmenTS ~ anTi-STreSS
maSSage ~ makeup ~ Waxing
Bride, groom & Wedding parTy paCkageS
perSonalized Splendor paCkageS availaBle upon requeST
giFT CerTiFiCaTeS
First time customers only. one offer per person, per visit.
offer expires 10-1-11
Splendor Salon & Spa naturally combines the miracle healing of botanical herbs with advanced spa treatments from europe.
We at Splendor Salon are stylists trained in top new york, Chicago, york, Chicago, y las vegas and San Francisco salons. egas and San Francisco salons. egas and San Francisco salons. vegas and San Francisco salons. v
We apply our skills to realize your ultimate vision of yourself.
THe HigHeST qualiTy Salon & Spa ServiCeS
50%OFF
any haircut and color
FEATURE BUSINESS
Splendor Salon & Spa – Indulge!Close your eyes and imagine what
pampering would feel like; a warming facial, a massage, the perfect haircut and color… You can have this and more when you visit Splendor Salon and Spa located at 4738 N. Cumberland Ave. I was introduced to Splendor Salon when they first opened in December of 2005. They offered some wonderful grand opening specials which I gladly decided to take advantage of. First the full “oh that feels good” body massage and facial. Ahhh bliss!
My next luxurious splurge came when I went for a haircut and color. That’s when I met Alexandra, owner of Splendor Salon and the most amazing hair stylist. Although I had experienced other “high end” haircuts, never have I had the results that I received at Splendor Salon. I now cannot go to anyone else.
However, let’s go back a bit to the beginning and how Splendor Spa got started. Alexandra grew up in Poland. She finished high school and then attended beauty school with the intention of opening up her own salon
one day. In 1997, she moved to Chicago.” It was the best decision in my life.” When she first came over to the United States, she did free lance work at different salons and worked with a photographer styling hair for models. With experience, she built up a nice portfolio for herself. In 2005, she felt it was time to realize her dream and open her own salon. It did not come without struggles though. With a bit of stress in her voice Alexandra commented, “Everything was a fight. I had to negotiate over and over again to obtain a massage license for my spa.” After what seemed to be a long battled, she was able to open, “A place for clients to enjoy the whole spa experience,
where people can come and escape from this crazy world.”
Alexandra loves her job and the people she works with. “People are the most important. It’s not all about money; it’s about making the client feel relaxed and happy.”
Alexandra currently employs 8 stylists in her trendy and bright salon and she recently introduced a new line of organic products for the hair, face and body. “I am so happy with these products. The hair color is exceptional and has so much shine. It also last so much longer. I love it!”
Oh, by the way, A lexandra would not even start talking with
me for the interview until she did one thing first, “I have to get my appointment book so we can make an appointment for you. I’m stressed knowing you need a haircut and color.” That’s how much she cares about her customers. I couldn’t argue, and its one appointment I truly look forward to.
Splendor Salon and Spa offers an extensive line of services for both men and women; hair design, color treatments, skin care and facials, body treatments, massage, waxing and more. They also offer bride and groom packages that start 4-8 weeks prior to the event. “Disappear for one to 6 hours and we will make you feel like you have been hiding out for a week.” Splendor Salon also offers gift certificates, but most importantly the opportunity to immerse yourself in pampering along with wonderful customer service. Visit their website at www.splendorsalon.com. Look for future articles in upcoming People & Places Newspaper featuring hair care tips by Alexandra.
September 2011 • People & Places 21
September is National Library Card Sign-Up Month!
Adults frequently forget that the library is a public resource paid for by their taxes. In addition to information resources, the library provides residents with free access to computers, the internet and other information technologies. Library staff are trained and ready to help individuals master newer technologies. The Library regularly schedules entertaining and informative programs for adults, and our meeting rooms are available to the community residents.
Another important consideration is that research indicates that students who use their library do better in school. Eighty-nine percent of Americans agree that the public library enhances the educational experience. That is not hard to understand when you consider all you get with a library card including free access to online resources, educational programs and activities, as well as homework help, books and more.
So, enrich your life and your children’s education. Stop by your local library to sign up for the most
important school supply of all: a library card.
Franklin Park Library 10311 Grand Ave., 847-455-6016 www.franklinparklibrary.org
This year, between Thursday, September 1st and Friday, September 30th, the Franklin Park Library will have gifts for first-time card holders and will also be raffling off gift baskets for regular patrons who borrow items from our library during September.
Schiller Park Library 4200 Old River Rd, 847-678-0433 www.schillerparklibrary.org
Although the Schiller Park library is going through some major remodeling to improve their computer center, it is open for business and waiting for eager readers! If you don’t have a library card, September is the perfect time to obtain one. If you are 5 years of age and can print your name, come in and get your first library card! But don’t forget your legal guardian.
Also, if you’re 18 years or older all you will need to bring is two pieces of identification that states your (or your parent’s) current name and Schiller Park address. Plus if you are 8 years of age, please bring your legal guardian and have them fill out our user agreement forms to allow you to use the internet here at the library once you are a member. FREE GIFT for first time card holders.
Celebrate with a Book! Join the l ibrary Tuesday,
September 20th from 6:30-7:30pm and listen to some book and library inspired stories in honor of National Library Card Sign-Up Month.
Adult Beginner Computer ClassesSeptember 10th from 9:30-11am
Limit of 8 adults for this class and limited to Schiller Park residents only. Registration is required.
Save the Date: Halloween Party at the Schiller Park Library
Saturday, October 29th 1:30 – 4pm. Pre-Registration required
NoveList™: A reviewFrom the Adult Services Dept. of the Franklin Park Library
Generally , library columns offer book reviews , but today I’d like to present you with a review of an online resource originally developed to help librarians answer the questions posed by readers seeking advice on what to read next. This database, NoveList™, is designed to answer questions like “what is the first book in the J D Robb ‘In Death’ series”; “I really like the novels of John Sanford, are there other similar authors that you can recommend?”; or “I once read a book about time travel involving witches and Bonny Prince Charlie’s rebellion. I don’t remember the author or the title, but I’d like my daughter to read it. Can you help me find it?”
NoveList™ is now available for use by you from your library’s website. There are now over 150,000 fiction titles in the database and in March 2008, EBSCO launched NoveList Plus ™with an additional 50,000 readable nonfiction titles as well. Both services offer feature articles, BookTalks, Book Discussion Guides and Author Read-alike lists.
This summer an exciting new service called NextReads rolled out. NextReads allows library patrons to sign up for any of 24 topical e-newsletters and get great book suggestions by either email or RSS. Reading lists are delivered right to you, and you’ll be able to check immediately whether the items are on the shelf at the library or whether they’ve been checked out.
For more help selecting your next book, visit www.franklinparklibrary.org/readerscorner
LOCAL LIBR A RIES
The Importance of School Libraries
“Closing a school library is not just an issue for schools. Library programs at schools foster a love of reading, and develop information, research literacy and critical thinking skills. They allow kids to learn about their world, and to explore and develop their own interests. The lack of these skills among students will have a big impact on both the public and academic library, as well as on society. A major Canadian study from People for Education and Queens University has found that having a school library improves
test scores, and schools with teacher librarians have more positive attitudes toward reading; while schools with no professional librarian have lower reading scores. As school libraries and librarians become fewer, the impact on public libraries and society as a whole will grow. We will be raising a generation of children who don’t read, leading to a generation of adults who won’t read, and who won’t know how to f ind information or critically evaluate the information that they do find.” Support your local libraries!
ADVERTISERS – Show YOUR support to libraries by sponsoring the Library Page in People & Places Newspaper. Become a Gold, Silver or Bronze sponsor. 10% of each month’s sponsorship goes back to the libraries for books, programs, or other needed items. Your Ad will appear along with announcing your support of our Library Page.
22 People & Places • September 2011
SUBMITTED BY MARK B. OF SCHILLER PARK.
Taken in their backyard pond. The bloom is a water hyacinth and the goldfish they grew from a pup.
Submit your picture to Picture of the Month to [email protected].
Be sure to include your name and city along with a brief explanation of where the picture was taken.
Picture of the Month
Picture of
HOUSE & HOME
The Green Party: Hosting an Eco-Friendly Get-Together
With so much emphasis on protecting the planet and preserving resources, party hosts are under pressure to throw a party that’s not only fun, but earth-friendly as well.
Though it might seem a tall order to plan a party and do so with the planet in mind, that’s not the case at all. Fortunately, it’s easy for hosts to plan a party that’s both guest- and earth-friendly.
1. Start With the FoodAs the old saying goes, “The
easiest way to a man’s heart is through his stomach.” But as any party host knows that adage can be altered to read, “The easiest way to a guest’s heart is through his or her stomach.” When planning an eco-friendly party, everything starts with the food. Finger foods like hummus and tortilla chips, cheese and crackers, or even fruits and vegetables are both delicious and
earth-friendly because they don’t require the use of disposable utensils or plates like more traditional hors d’oeuvres and appetizers. Hosts can even go the extra mile by serving organic foods that are in-season and local.
2. Take It to the TableBeing earth-friendly doesn’t have
to stop with what guests are eating. Tableware can be earth-friendly and cost-effective as well. Instead of disposable plates and utensils, use metal utensils and reusable plates and cups. For larger gatherings that might stretch the tableware pantry a little thin, purchase inexpensive yet reusable plastic plates and cups. It might not be the fancy china, but it is more earth-friendly and it’s a one-time expense, unlike paper plates and cups.
3. Party PaperlessPaper napkins and paper towels
have long been a staple of parties. However, such items are not very eco-friendly. Instead of paper napkins and paper towels, use cloth napkins and washable towels that can be reused the next time around. If napkins and paper towels are a must,
purchase recycled napkins and paper towels.
4. Don’t Pass Over the Party BusMany hosts are understandably
worried about guests getting home once the festivities have ended. Guests can sometimes overdo it, and if there isn’t a designated driver around the burden is on the host to ensure guests get home safely.
However, hosts can reduce their stress and help the planet by arranging for a party bus to pick up guests who live nearby. This helps save fuel while ensuring everyone will get home safely. Though guests might prefer the party bus, hosts can also arrange for more routine transportation that still reduces fuel and ensures all guests get home safe.
When hosting a party, hosts should keep in mind the myriad ways their party can be both guest- and earth-friendly.
Party hosts can employ a few simple tips to ensure their party is both guest- and earth-friendly.
Stocking the Home Bar Plenty of at-home
entertainers choose to try their skills as amateur mixologists at cocktail parties and other social occasions. The key to honing one’s skills is having the right tools on hand -- and that includes the staples of any home bar.
A person can choose to have a limited bar, where he or she only mixes a few favorite drinks, or something that is sure to have the ingredients for an array of cocktails friends will enjoy.
When outfitting the home bar, here are the essentials to have on hand to make most of the common drinks a person can find in bars and restaurants.
LiqueursAmaretto, various Schnapps
(apple, peppermint , et c .), vermouth, triple sec, and Irish cream
LiquorsLight rum, gin, brandy, bourbon,
vodka, tequila, and whiskey
MixersSour mix, water, club soda, cola,
lemon-lime soda, orange juice, tomato juice, tonic water, ginger ale, cranberry juice, and pineapple juice
GarnishesBitters, black pepper, cocktail
olives, limes, lemons, oranges, grenadine, maraschino cherries, salt, sugar, and tabasco sauce
September 2011 • People & Places 23
CLUES ACROSS 1. A roll of insulation 5. Brazilian dance10. Something that is owed14. Middle Eastern chieftain15. South African village16. 6th Jewish month17. Sandwich shop18. “Air Music” composer19.Extinctflightlessbird20. Exabyte21. 1/1000 of an inch22. 4th US state23. Boater27. Quarterback throws30. Dentist’s group31. Honorable title (Turkish)32. Ursidae family35. Removes an apple’s center38. To have supper42. Back breaking work43. Public promotion of a product 44. Point midway between N and E45. Dull in appearance46. Change by reversal47. Attack on all sides49.Scientificworkplaces50. Prickly seed covering52. Frozen water54. Move back and away from56.Fippleflute60. Bladed tool61. Actress Farrow62.2001Spielbergfilm63. An explosive device66. Explosive sounds68. Duffels70. Dwarf buffalo71. Seraph72. Scottish hillside73. Czar (alt.)74. Iraq seaport75. Metal food containers
CLUES DOWN 1. Cover with condensation 2. Rhizopodan (alt. sp.) 3. ‘__ death do us part 4. Denotes three 5. Swedish krona 6. A pleasant odor 7. One who navigates a ship
8. Yellow edible Indian fruit 9. River in Upper Austria10. Father11. Ancient Tokyo12. Scout merit emblem13. Region near Troy24. Common piercing location25. Rural delivery26. Suggesting the horror of death27.Oneafflictedwithparesis28. Silver29. A maker of saddles32. British thermal unit33. Longest division of geological time34. Assistance to others36. A lyric poem37. Midway between NE and E39. One of the Gershwins40. Grab41. One point S of due E48. Elastic coils of wire51. Newark Del. school53. Atomic #2754. Capital of Morocco55. Interspersed with introns57. Showing keen interest58. MN 5512159. Ascends61. Supernatural force64. Extinct bird of New Zealand65. A measure of music66. Founder of Babism67. Patti Hearst’s captors68. London radio station69. Macaws
LAST MONTH’S ANSWERS:
VIRGO - Aug 24/Sept 22You’re getting pulled in all directions again, Virgo. It seems you’re always in demand. Find a hidden retreat and make plans to visit it soon. You can use the rest.
LIBRA - Sept 23/Oct 23A new romance has you seeing stars. Count yourself as one of the lucky few who meet Mister or Miss Right. These days, love isn’t always easy to come by.
SCORPIO - Oct 24/Nov 22Big news changes your focus on the future. New priorities are set and things you once thought were important take a back seat. Keep this news a secret for a little longer.
SAGITTARIUS - Nov 23/Dec 21No one likes a tattle tale, and that’s just what you’ve been, Sagittarius. Ratting out others won’t get you ahead -- it will only make enemies.
CAPRICORN - Dec 22/Jan 20Someone close is going to need some advice and support, Capricorn. You’ll have all the answers this person needs and feel rewarded by offering assistance.
AQUARIUS - Jan 21/Feb 18Expect good news late in the week. A loved one has a delicious surprise in store for you. Others look on with envy as you enjoy your just desserts, so share your wealth.
PISCES - Feb 19/Mar20You are about to make a statement in the world. It doesn’t have to be a major event but will impart great change. Thursday is a power day.
ARIES - Mar 21/Apr 20It’s best if you take the straight and narrow path this week, Aries. But you find that it’s not so easy with temptation at every turn. Keep your wits about you and stay focused.
TAURUS - Apr 21/May 21Are you tired of being described as stubborn, Taurus? Well, then change your tune a bit. When plans present themselves this week, listen with an open mind.
GEMINI - May 22/Jun 21You’ve been making excuses to a loved one and this person is on to you. What are you hiding from? Think about reassessing your plan of action. Others will be glad you did.
CANCER - Jun 22/Jul 22You’ve reached a roadblock and don’t know how to find a detour. Rely on close friends to help you out. You could be in a financial bind for a while. Be frugal.
LEO - Jul 23/Aug 23Now is not the time to be the center of attention, Leo. Give others a chance to shine, particularly at work. Take an opportunity to slip into the shadows. You just might like it there.
Horoscopes
THIS MONTH’S CHUCKLE! A man turns to his wife while they were sitting in their family room
and said, “just so you know, I never want to live in a vegetative state dependent on some machine. If that ever happens, just pull the plug.”
The wife immediately got up, walked over and unplugged the TV.
Sign under a mounted large mouth bass. “If I had kept my mouth shut, I wouldn’t be here.”
24 People & Places • September 2011
Hey Kids, have your parents send us your original artwork, comic strips, drawings, short stories or poems to
People & Places. We’ll print them in upcoming issues
What’s the Difference?There are four things different between Picture A and Picture B. Can you find them all?
Artwork Submitted by Julia RosteckaAge 6-1/2, First Grader, Schiller Park
Creative ColoringColor in this picture to create your own masterpiece.
Answers: 1. Umbrella all one color; 2. Missing shadow under chair; 3. Ear different; 4. Bigger smile on face
September 2011 • People & Places 25
Legal BriefAvoid Foreclosure
with These StrategiesDiminishing jobs and widespread layoffs are
causing many people to fall behind on their bills, including mortgage payments. That means many homeowners are facing foreclosure. But there are options to avoid it.
Statistics show that there are still a high number of homes that are going into foreclosure, despite early real estate stimulus efforts. The Mortgage Bankers Association predicts that 1 out of every 200 homes in the U.S. will be foreclosed on, and every three months another 250,000 new families enter into foreclosure.
A slower real estate market has translated into falling home prices for many people. For those who
opted for adjustable rate mortgages, higher adjustments mean the inability to pay outstanding loans. Furthermore, low home values could mean that many people owe more on their home mortgages than the properties are currently worth.
Despite public perception, lenders do not want to foreclose on a house unless absolutely necessary. Lenders can lose 20 cents to 60 cents on the dollar for a foreclosure. The average lender loses $50,000 or more on a foreclosure due to legal fees and other expenses. This means that banks may be willing to negotiate with homeowners who are facing foreclosure.
A lender will generally contact a person within 90 days if payments on the mortgage are missed and will file a “notice of default.” However, even with one missed payment, the credit bureaus generally get wind of late or unmade payments, which can greatly affect a person’s credit rating. Acting before payments are late can save a homeowner’s reputation.
•Contact the bank to talk about inability to pay. Homeowners will want to speak with the “loss mitigation” department. There they can talk about payment plans and schedules that may be able to stretch out or reduce payments, called loan modification.
•If there is enough equity in the home, a homeowner may be able to refinance the home at a better rate. Don’t wait until the last minute to do this. Credit ratings are likely to be a factor when determining the interest rate. Steer clear of other risky loans, such as interest-only or another adjustable rate, if possible.
•Try selling the home in a conventional manner. Too many times people are attached to their homes. In essence, the home is a piece of property. Holding on to it when it cannot be afforded can spell trouble. Sell while there is still equity and find a new place to live that’s more affordable.
•Consider a short sale if what is owed on the house is considerably more than what the house is worth. The loss mitigation department is also in charge of approving a short sale on the home. The lender will agree to accept a lower price on the home than what the homeowner currently owes on the mortgage note.
•Offer the lender a deed in lieu of foreclosure. If efforts have been made to sell the house without results, a homeowner can propose handing over the deed to the home and the lender agrees to release him or her from the mortgage. Lenders may only agree to this if an unavoidable hardship was the reason a person is facing foreclosure.
Assault & RobberyBrian Lavergne, 41, of Schiller Park was charged
with one count of robbery and faces up to seven years in prison if convicted. He is accused of beating up a couple and stealing the woman’s shoes in the Schiller Woods Forest Preserve. Lavergne was held on a $25,000 bond. Readers are reminded that an arrest does not constitute a finding of guilt.
Police Blotter
Burglary AlertFRANKLIN PARK
Burglaries were reported in the 2500 block of Silvercreek Drive, 10000 block of W. Grand Avenue, and 2900 block of Gustav Street. Also a garage in the 2800 block of Elder Lane was burglarized. Over eleven hundred dollars worth of saws were stolen.
An 83 year old woman returned from a trip to the salon to find her home vandalized with racist messages. The intruders broke into the back door of Lucia DeFrancesco’s home and came through a screen in the sun room. The vandals also stole some of her jewelry. No word if the perpetrators were captured.
Schiller ParkAn attempted robbery in the
early morning hours of August 12th was reported in the 4500 block of Wesley Terrace. A man described as approximately 5’8” with a buzz cut, in his early twenties wearing a t-shirt and jeans was seen in a garage prior to the homeowner leaving for work. “The neighbor’s dogs were barking wildly and they called me to see if I had someone over. When I told them no, they called police,” replied homeowner Ellen Melnitzke. The intruder had ridden up on a bicycle and left it on the sidewalk before he walked up the driveway. However, when the dogs started barking, the man fled the scene on foot leaving the bike behind. Although police circled the area several times, the intruder could not be apprehended. The homeowner was grateful to the neighbor’s dogs for barking. If not alerted, Ms. Melnitzke might have encountered the man in the garage and something worse happen. It appeared nothing was stolen.
In the 10000 block of Seymour during the day, a young man came
home to find someone walking out his home with a DVD player and other electronics. Surprised, the burglar threw the items at the man and started running. Police were called and they found that the intruder had ransacked the home and had everything he wanted to take piled near the door. Intruder escaped on foot. No arrests have been made.
June Monthly Police ReportTYPE OF INCIDENT 2011 YTDAutomobile Accidents 284Criminal Arrests 329Traffic Citations 2,993Parking Citations Issued 1743Photo Enforcement Citations 2848Monies Received YTD $120,573Cases Assigned to Detective Div. 212Cases requiring Add’l Police Work 1313Calls requesting Police Services 4,486(July and August reports were not available at time of printing)
NORTHLAKERobberies were reported in the
200 block of Medill, 100 block of Parkview, 10600 block of Montana, 200 block of East Dickens, 400 block of LaPorte, and first block of Wagner. Also a $20,000 motorcycle was stolen from the first block of King Arthur Court.
LEYDEN TOWNSHIPA vehicle was stolen and another
vandalized in the 10400 block of West Lyndale and 200 block of East Grand Avenue. An arrest for prostitution was made on near Fullerton and Mannheim Road.
Residents in all areas of Leyden Township are reminded to take precautions with their property. Lock doors even when at home. Keep valuables out of plain sight and garage doors shut. If you park your car on the street, always close car windows and lock your car; never leave your keys in the ignition. If you notice any suspicious activity in your area, call 911 immediately.
26 People & Places • September 2011
CLASSIFIEDSPeople & Places is the perfect place for Wedding Announcements, Notice of Passing/Memorials,
Garage Sales, For Sale, Help Wanted, For Rent or Business Services Ad.
ATTENTION 1953 STEINMETZ GRADS
1953 Steinmetz High School Graduating Class. 3rd Annual Casual Gathering Sept. 19th – No reservations needed. Simply show up at the Rolling Meadows Russell’s Barbeque, 1pm
VOLUNTEERS WANTEDDo you like to write? Are you an artist waiting to be discovered? Do you have spare time on your hands? Would you like to be part of a fast growing newspaper? If so, People & Places is looking for you! We need article writers, columnists, proof-readers, photographers, creative, ambitious people! Great for retirees and students interested in journalism. Could later turn into a paid position. Contact [email protected] if interested and/or for further information.
HAPPY BIRTHDAY SANDRA!
To the person who can always make me laugh. Thanks for being there for me and your enduring support. May you be blessed with many more wonderful birthdays filled with surprises. Best Wishes! Lov ya girlfriend! Barb
LEGAL NOTICECorona Express Services3045 W. 25th Ave.Franklin Park, IL 60131• Auto Insurance /Commerical/
SR-22 with or without a License• Auto Plates Services• Renew Auto Plates• City Stickers (River Grove/
Franklin Park/Chicago)• Bill Payment Center• Money Transfers to US and Mexico• Calling Cards• Prepaid Visa /MasterCard
50TH WEDDING ANNIVERSARY
Santo and Kathie LoVecchio of Schiller Park will be celebrating their 50th Wedding Anniversary on September 2, 2011.CONGRATULATIONS and Best Wishes for many more years together!
HELP WANTED ADVERTISING SALES REPSIn between jobs? Need additional income? Make your own hours. Full or Part Time selling advertising for newspaper. Commission based only. 50% Commission on first 10 contracted/paid ads. Great commission rate thereafter. Immediate openings. Email resume to [email protected] SALES IN SUBJECT LINE. NO PHONE CALLS!
SAVE THE DATE 4TH ANNUAL MAKE A
DIFFERENCE DAY IN SCHILLER PARK SAT., OCT. 22, 2011
Join the 3 million volunteers across the country who will rally to make a difference in their communities this year on USA WEEKEND’s Make A Difference Day: As in the past, volunteers in Schiller Park will be helping Seniors or People with Disabilities with chores around the house like grass cutting, leaf raking, errands, small repair jobs, etc. Plan to volunteer or sponsor the event by donating supplies or food for the volunteers. This is a great event and a lot of fun too! To volunteer or sponsor the event, contact Barbara at 847-678-2939. HELP MAKE A DIFFERENCE IN SCHILLER PARK!
Clean out that clutter in your attic, basement, garage or home with our Clutter Cutter Ads.
FOR SALE Dark wood entertainment center. $20/OBO. 847-671-0949
FOR SALE VCR & 200 VHS movies. All good condition. Best offer. 847-671-0949
FOR SALE 13” Color TV $20 OBO 847-671-0949
FOR SALE Bedroom set: 2 dressers, night stand. Made of cherry wood. Beautiful $400/OBO 847-671-0949
FOR SALE Bissell rug cleaner works great. $70 OBO 847-671-0949
FOR SALE Rain bird esp 4 station professional sprinkler timer. Expands to 13 stations. Like new, used one cycle. Too big for our needs. List price $127, sell for $50. Listed on Amazon for $89. 847-678-2939
Rates are simple and affordable•Clutter Cutter Ads: 15 word ad
FREE for any ONE item sold. Limit of 3 free ads per issue per person.
•Classified ads are $20 for 25 words or less with .50 cents for each additional word. Add a picture for $10 and/or $2.50 for a fancy border. Special rates for larger size ads.
How to Submit Your Ad•Email your Clutter Cutter ad to
•Email your Classified ads to [email protected]
•All ads must be submitted on or before the 15th of the month for the next month’s publishing.
People & Places has great coverage and great rates! Larger size ads at half the cost! Call and place your ad with us today at 847-624-1413.
Enjoy the convenience of HOME DELIVERY! For just $24 a year, you’ll receive 12 issues of People & Places. Each issue is packed with feature articles, community news and information you’ll want to know!
Fill out the form below and mail back with your payment today. Your first issue will arrive directly in the mail, so you won’t miss a minute of People & Places. PLUS, receive a FREE GIFT WITH ANY PAID SUBSCRIPTION.
YES! I want to subscribe to People & Places Newspaper.Enclosed is my check or money order for $24. Send a year’s subscription starting
with the next issue. Save! Two Year Subscription just $40!
AMOUNT ENCLOSED: $24.00 $40.00
NAME
ADDRESS
CITY STATE ZIP
TELEPHONE
SEND INFORMATION AND PAYMENT TO:PEOPLE & PLACES NEWSPAPER
ATTN: SUBSCRIPTION DEPT.4303 N. ATLANTIC AVENUESCHILLER PARK, IL 60176
CLUTTER CUTTER ADS
RATES & SUBMISSION GUIDELINES
SUBSCRIBE TO PEOPLE & PLACES
IN LOVING MEMORYVictoria P. Kreitzer, Age 89, Schiller Park. Beloved wife and childhood sweetheart of Albert. Married 67 years. Mother of 3, Grandmother of 9, Great Grandmother of 5. At rest August 18, 2011. May God grant her eternal peace.
September 2011 • People & Places 27
Wouldn’t your ad
look great here in full color?
Looking to increase your business? People & Places Newspaper has
amazingopportunitiesinadvertising,
sponsorships,classifiedsandmore.
Get the word out to all the people and places around our local area.
Show your support and patriotism for all the men and women who perished on September 11, 2001. Many area towns and villages will be holding ceremonies honoring those that lost their lives and also the heroes who helped with recovery efforts. On September 11, 2011, FLY THE FLAG, attend a memorial, say a prayer, do whatever you can to show your support of our country and, NEVER FORGET!
By the Numbers:•Total Number Killed in attacks.
2,819 Official Figure as of 9-5-02
•Number of Firefighters and paramedics killed – 343
•Number of NYPD Officers – 23
•Number of Port Authority Police Officers – 37
•Estimated Number of Children who lost a parent – 3,051
•Percentage of Americans who knew someone hurt or killed in the attacks – 20
•Point drop in the Dow Jones Industrial Average when the NYSE reopened -684.81
•Estimated amount of money donated to 9/11 charities - $1.4 Billion
Source: nymag.com
Local Events Honoring 9/11 and Fallen Soldiers•September 10-11: Taste of St.
Gertrude Sat. 3-10pm, Sunday 11:30-5pm, 9613 Schiller Blvd. 9/11 Memorial Service
• September 11: Westchester Silent Parade www.westchester-il.org
•September 11: Respect for Life Mass, St. Beatrice Church with Cardinal Francis George 12:15pm
•September 11: Schiller Park Car Show Metra Station, 10am-3pm – September 11th Memorial Service 4pm
•September 23: The Fallen Soldiers Benefit Franklin Park American Legion Hall – Proceeds will fund care packages for troops and the Children of Fallen Soldiers.
REMEMBERING 9/11on the 10th Anniversary
Call 847-624-1413 or E-Mail [email protected] People & Places • September 2011