South Holland ideals become a reality
Transcription
South Holland ideals become a reality
SOUTH HOLLAND TODAY OCTOBER 2006 S O U T H HOLLAND TODAY OCTOBER 2006 1 PRESORTED STANDARD U.S.POSTAGE PAID PERMIT #4 SO.HOLLAND, IL CARRIER ROUTE PRESORT FOR POSTAL CUSTOMER SOUTH HOLLAND, IL Published by the Village of South Holland • 16226 Wausau Ave.• South Holland, IL 60473 • (708)210-2900 South Holland ideals become a reality Churches come together and show support for diversity By Deidra Somerville When Rev. Al Vander Meer of First Reformed Church and Pastor Willard High of Shepard’s Community Church met more than a decade ago through the South Holland Ministerial Association, they didn’t realize then that their futures would be intertwined. As their friendship grew, the two church leaders realized that despite the differences in their backgrounds and their congregations, they shared a similar vision, as well as core Christian values. That ongoing friendship and dialog recently resulted in a beneficial partnership that reflects the diversity and faith of the Village as a whole. Vander Meer and the leadership of First Reformed intentionally opened the doors, which since its inception in 1847 has served a mostly white congregation, to the multicultural members of High’s Shepard’s Community Church. High attributes the partnership to his friendship with Vander Meer, as well as the willingness of both congregations to enter into such a partnership. “By meeting on a personal level, a level of comfort began to develop,” he says. “We discovered that despite our differences, we shared core Christian values together. We met and prayed and got to know each other on a personal level.” There was a unanimous vote among the leadership at First Reformed and Shepard’s Community Church to create a Covenant for Shared Space that would guide the principles of their union and their vision for the church moving forward. “The building belongs to God and we are privileged to use it,” says Van Der Meer. For Pastor High, the principles of reconciliation are important for both individuals and the larger congregational body to examine their own personal challenges to creating a truly diverse community. “When one commits to these principles in their personal life, it carries into the public life,” he says. That commitment to acceptance and celebration of diversity is not a unique one in South Holland. In January, the predominately black congregation of Bethel Community Church in Harvey joined with the mostly white congregation of Calvary Reformed Church in South Holland to create a new, combined and diverse congregation under (continued on page 2) South Holland fire trucks will lead the way Oct. 10 for the 11th Annual Parade of Lights, honoring fallen firefighters. (See map of parade route on page 8.) Village firefighters will be joined by other south suburban departments. Fire Department saves lives By Carrie Napoleon South Holland Fire Chief James Wiley marked a bittersweet anniversary last month. A full-time firefighter for 32 years, Chief Wiley stepped into the position of chief five years ago, Sept. 4, 2001. “I was indoctrinated a week later,” Wiley said. The annual observance of the Sept. 11 terrorist attacks reminds Wiley of that time five years ago and both those who have fallen in the line of duty and how his occupation has changed since then. ‘Saving people’s lives... that’s rewarding.’ James Wiley, Fire Chief Members of the new Calvary Community Church, which formed when congregations of Calvary Reformed and Bethel Community churches combined, gather for fellowship after a service. Pictured from left are Marlene Krist, James Morris holding son James, Christina Zwetschke holding son Christian, Pamela Mauldin holding Joshua Morris, Jacob Morris, Unique Morris, Viada Talbert, June Ettema, June Smits, and Evelyn Zoeteman. To remember those who have fallen, the South Holland Fire Department hosts the 11th annual Parade of Lights Oct. 10. The event is part of National Fire Protection Week Oct. 8 through 14. “The hardest part in my mind is responding to a fire where there is a loss of life involving a child or one of our own,” he said. “We’ve experienced both here.” South Holland lost one of its own in 1989. Douglas P. Maicach (pronounced MayCheck) is the only South Holland Firefighter to fall since the department opened in 1914. The department will be honoring Maicach and all of its brethren with the Parade of Lights. “Every year it starts with a service at Thorn Creek Church,” Wiley said. The service is a unique tribute. Large screens are set up at the church and the name, city and state of every firefighter killed in the line of duty in the last 12 months are displayed. Following the service, as many as 30 trucks from fire departments around the area join in a silent parade with lights flashing. The solemn march includes bagpipe players and the traditional ringing of the bell. (See map of parade route, page 8.) Wiley knows good training and a wellstaffed department will help keep that list of fallen firefighters short. In 2005, the fire department received 3,261 calls, and the department is on pace to match that number this year. “There are days when we may have three calls. Our highest call volume in a 24-hour period was 22 calls. We can be extremely busy,” Wiley said. Of the 2005 calls, 2,273 were ambulance calls and the remaining 988 were fire calls. The full time firefighters are also trained as paramedics, who help with all the medical calls. Wiley says his staff is well trained and able to handle anything that comes its way. He points to the cross training they receive as an example. While the hard part of being a firefighter weighs heavy, the rewards of the occupation can be equally as extreme. “Saving people’s lives, saving a property even … that’s rewarding,” Wiley says. ■ South Holland Fire Chief James Wiley has been a full-time firefighter for 32 years. 2 OCTOBER 2006 SOUTH HOLLAND TODAY Heritage Haul 5K winners S O U T H H O L L A N D SALUTES Pictured above are top finishers in the 5K Heritage Haul, held Sept. 2, as part of the annual South Holland Heritage Festival. Listed below are winners, and their times. YOUTH UNDER 12 YEARS Rachel Blaauw - 11 (26:05); Patrick Osagiede - 8 (41:37); Dominique Brooks - 12 (45:54) 13 - 19 YEARS Austin Smit - 15 (21:37); Daniel Roijas - 19 (22:23) Females: Alicia Smit - 13 (28:44); Marissa Sylvester - 17 (33:55) Males: 20 - 39 YEARS Torrence Moore (24:14); Jake Hutchcraft (24:24) Females: Julianne Tardy (24:34); Valerie Dekok (27:30) Males: Churches unite (continued from front page) one roof, now called Calvary Community Chruch. The process of coming together under one roof involved months and years of building a relationship among the leadership of each church and developing a shared mission that expressly embraces diversity. Rev. Alfonzo Surrett, who previously served as pastor at Bethel, said each congregation shared a vision to build a church that reflects the Kingdom of Heaven, where all of God’s children are together, not separated along racial or economic lines. “Our vision statement is to be a visible example of the Kingdom of God in South Holland and beyond,” says Surrett. “We have more things in common than we do differences. What has made this work is that we emphasize our commonalities.” Surrett believes fear of the unknown and the need to examine one’s heart are critical to the process. “The real reason we’re so divided is the love issue,” he says. “We need to be real with ourselves about ourselves.” Vander Meer agrees. “You cannot let fear dictate your behavior,” he says. At his speech delivered at the National Cathedral in Washington, D.C. in 1968, Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. said, “We must face 40 - 59 YEARS Bill Smit (22:20); Heino Blaauw (26:42) Females: Christie Smit (27:54); Carole Henderson (30:52) Males: 60+ YEARS Don Grimwood (29.51); Dan Zajeski (55:36) Females: Mary Bivona (52:35); Rose Brooks (56:13 Males: the sad fact that at eleven o’clock on Sunday morning when we stand to sing ‘In Christ There is No East or West,’ we stand in the most segregated hour of America.” Both First Reformed Church and Calvary Community Church set out to change that. For both churches, Sunday worship has now taken on a whole new meaning. Both congregations have embarked upon a mission to embrace diversity as an intentional goal for their outreach to the community and as part of their way of life as parishioners. “In doing this we were faced with one question: Can both congregations serve God together better than apart? We feel that we can do more for God’s Kingdom serving together,” Vander Meer says. Vander Meer, High and Surrett invite residents of South Holland to join them for Sunday worship. Church locations are as follows: FIRST REFORMED CHURCH/ SHEPARD’S COMMUNITY CHURCH 15924 South Park Avenue 333-0622 Sunday Worship Service: First Reformed: 9:30 a.m. Shepard’s Community: 12:00 p.m. Gloria J. Taylor, vice president of community education at South Suburban College, was recently honored as a finalist in the Abby Foundation of the Southern Suburbs Women Together 2006 Woman of the Year Award. Taylor who received her doctorate from the University of Chicago, was commended for having a dramatic impact on women’s lives through her work at SSC. Marlene Cook, longtime South Holland Today correspondent, received a second place award from the National Federation of Press Women for her column, Ask South Holland Today. Although retired, Cook will continue to write her award-winning column. Brandon Donald Hedrick Gordon earned a bachelor’s degree in computer science from Truman State University, Kirksville, Mo. While attending Truman, Gordan was active with Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc. and the Residence Life Department. He was a student advisor and participated in the mentoring and tutoring for the Scholastic Enhancement Experience program. Theresa Best graduated cum laude with a degree in business administration from Elmhurst College. Debra DeGraff earned a bachelor’s degree from Hope College in Holland, Michigan. Lawrence Mollo graduated from Carleton College in Northfield, Minnesota with a bachelor’s degree. Rosalyn and Rhonda Dekker were awarded Best of Show ribbons at the Lake County (Indiana) Fair and the Will County Fair for scrapbooking and flower arranging. Numerous 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place ribbons were also received by Rachel, Rosalyn, and Rhonda Dekker for scrapbooking, sewing, cross stitch, crocheting and quilting entries. Several local students were named to dean’s lists at their colleges. They are Tony Butler and Dan Rudenga, Calumet College of St. Joseph; David Kyner and Datia Long, Lewis University; Lisa Kallemeyn, Hope College; Anitra Kemp, Elmhurst College; Briane Christofanelli, and William Smit, Purdue University Calumet. ■ Diversity awards CALVARY COMMUNITY CHURCH 16341 South Park Avenue 339-1133 Sunday Worship Service: 9:30am & 6:00pm October activities at the library By Deidra Somerville ➤ Iternet and Email Classes - South Holland residents are offered a chance to learn how to use the Internet and set up an email account. Registration is required. Class size is limited. Registrants must be 18 years of age or older. Call Bea at the Adult Reference Desk to register. All classes will be on Wednesdays from 1:30 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. Pre-requisite: You must know how to use a keyboard and a mouse. ➤ Terrific Tuesdays - Tuesdays at 3:30 p.m. - Oct. 3 to 24 - An hour of terrific stories, games, and crafts for children K - 2. Registration is required. ➤ Cartooning workshop - Saturday, Oct. 7 at 2 p.m. - Graphic artist Marlene Goodman will teach 9 – 14 yearold participants how to draw popular cartoon characters and how to create your own cartoon character. Registration required. ■ At Diveristy Inc.’s 12th annual dinner, Jan Mulder (top center) and Frank Zuccarelli (bottom right) were honored. Mulder, chair of the South Holland Youth Commission, was honored for her spiritual leadership as director of Young Life and her commitment to fostering diversity among youth. Mulder is pictured with Village officials including Frank Knittle, Mary Ann Thornton, Pat Mahon, Sallie Penman, Cindy Doorn and Art Bennett. Zuccarelli received the David A. Janke Community Spirit award at the dinner, which took place at Idlewild Country Club in Flossmoor. SOUTH HOLLAND TODAY OCTOBER 2006 3 South Park RESIDENTS YOU SHOULD KNOW businesses: ‘We’re Open!’ John and Mary Turton, with daughter JoAnne. Restaurant owners share secrets of success By Deidra Somerville It’s an early fall morning and the constant rain is making for a soggy cloudy day. Along the Lansing strip mall on Torrence Avenue and 173rd Street is a little refuge from the damp weather called the Great American Bagel, owned and managed by South Holland residents Mary and John Turton, who also operate a second location in Homewood. There’s no mystery what’s in store for the customer at first glance. The name appears to say it all. But newcomers are pleasantly surprised to find a nice cup of warm gourmet soup waiting for them – along with the largest variety of bagels one could dream of. From the tried and true of the plain egg bagel to the new fangled chocolate chip or jalapeño cheddar, there is something for everyone. The creamy spreads have the same spicy variety. The Turtons have weathered many storms with their business and manage through faith and strong optimism to maintain their franchises while supporting those in need. The upbringing of the Turtons in their native Nigeria taught them the values of faith and the market place. They both serve as Eucharistic ministers at South Holland’s St. Jude Parish and have been the proud owners of their franchise business for six years. Prior to opening the Great American Bagel, they ran a medical transport business for three years. Lessons learned from that experience, and with Great American Bagel, have helped them to maintain a steady customer base while they have seen some businesses come and go with the restructuring of the Torrence Avenue overpass at their doorstep. “We understand that cities have to update their infrastructure and improve things, but it can be hard on small businesses,” says John. Mary is the manager at that location and had to find ways to keep interest up with their customer base during uncertain times, a concept that South Holland businesses along South Park Avenue are experiencing now. “We worked hard to keep the customers coming and to get those customers back that had to take alternate routes during the reconstruction,” she said. “Having signs that give customers alternate entrances and offering great deals can help costumers remember your business.” Staying connected to their customers and the broader community played a large role in helping them to overcome those difficult times. Giving back has also served as a source of inspiration for them. They have donated food and coupons for needy families served by public and private organizations, mostly to the food pantries that St. Jude has worked to maintain in good standing through its church leadership. “There have been so many people who have given to us,” says Mary, “so many people have helped us along the way that we feel it’s important to give back whenever we can.” John agrees. “Our busy schedule does not allow for us to be as involved as we would like to be, so that is our way of also staying involved.” John and Mary are blessed with a beautiful daughter, JoAnne, who attends Christ Our Savior Catholic School. Having family in neighboring municipalities played a role in luring the couple from Chicago’s Rogers Park neighborhood, but much more has kept them here. “We love it here. We love the people especially,” John says. ■ South Park Avenue Businesses • South Park Hardware, 16074 South Park Ave., 331-0063, Monday through Friday from 7:30 a.m. to 8 p.m. and Saturday from 7:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. • Flowers & Gifts by Michelle, 16101 South Park Ave., 339-3777, Monday through Friday 8 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., Saturday from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. • Township Trustees in Schools, 16106 South Park Avenue, 225-0225 • Ciecierski & Associates, 16107 South Park Avenue, 331-4221 • Park Avenue Bowl, 16113 South Park Avenue, 339-0234, Monday through Saturday from 11 a.m. until 10 p.m., Available on Sunday for groups or parties, Call for hours of open play or to book a party. • N-Sync Cellular, 16120 South Park Ave., 415-5557, Monday through Friday 7 p.m. to 8 p.m. Saturday 3 p.m. to 8 p.m., or by appointment. • Knox Bonner and Associates, 16122 South Park Avenue, 331-3309 • Glenn A. Evans & Company, 16123 South Park Avenue, 339-9550 • Calvary Book Store, 16125 South Park Avenue, 333-1115, Monday and Friday from 9:30 a.m. to 7 p.m., Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday from 9:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Saturday from 9 to 5 p.m. • Foxborough Realty, 16126 South Park Avenue, 331-9001, Monday through Friday 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., or by appointment. • O’Brien and Associates, 16126 South Park Avenue, 596-1830, Monday through Friday 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., or by appointment. • Shear Designs, 16126 South Park Avenue, 331-1990, call for appointment • Expert Custom Tailors, 16135 South Park Avenue, 339-3040, Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., Saturday from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. • Shiblay’s Beauty Salon, 16135 South Park Avenue, 331-8290, Monday through Friday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., Saturday 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. • Renal Care Group, 16136 South Park Avenue, 331-0200 • Elleoj Salon, 16137 South Park Avenue, 596-4071, call for appointment. ■ By Carrie Napoleon South Park Avenue business owners have one message for residents – We’re Open! While road construction has laid waste to the street and sidewalk, many of South Holland’s well established businesses are struggling through a tough time. The construction project is part of the overall Town Center redevelopment initiative, which will include the Brownstones at Park Place residential community. The finished project will bring in an influx of residents and new businesses to the area. “I think when it’s done it will be very nice and helpful (to our business),” says Noreen Van Deursen, owner of Calvary Bookstore. In the meantime, Van Deursen has had to tighten her belt strap, reduce staffing and create a new entrance to her shop. “It’s been slow. Our loyal customers are still getting through,” she says. While the front door remains open, customers may also access her store through a back door that may be reached via one of the two parking lots the Village created for the temporarily street-less business strip. “The Village is really doing everything they can to be helpful,” Van Deursen says. Signs directing customers to the new parking lot have helped her customers realize her store is still open. One customer said if she hadn’t seen the sign, she would have never tried to get to the store. “I have a lot of loyal customers who continue to shop here because they feel the store and its services outweigh the inconvenience of the construction in the area,” she said. “I’m very thankful for that.” With construction expected to last until Thanksgiving, Van Deursen fears she may lose some of the walk-in holiday shopping. She urges people to remember the businesses along the street. Dale Ter Haar, owner of South Park Hardware, says walk-in traffic has slowed down, but business has not been bad. “It’s not as bad as I thought it would be,” Ter Haar says. The hardware store is lucky in that it has a back parking lot of its own that offers easy access. He says while the construction is making it tough on businesses, the finished project should be worth it. Dale Ter Haar, owner of South Park Hardware, feels the finished project will be worth it. Effie Wiatrowski, owner of Flowers & Gifts by Michelle, wants to make sure customers know that they’re still open during construction on that street, and that customers can still access her parking lot from the rear. “It’ll be great when it’s done. We’ll have a nice new street. When we get the brownstones built, it will be a great neighborhood,” he says. Like his counterpart, he too wants to spread the word to residents: “We’re open for business.” Effie Wiatrowski, owner of Flowers & Gifts by Michelle, says she too has seen a decrease in foot traffic to her shop. However, phone orders are managing to help the business during this tough time. “About 90 percent of our orders now are over the phone. I’m still struggling to make ends meet,” she says. The road construction makes it more difficult to get the delivery truck on the road, but they are making do. Some people don’t realize they can still access her parking lot from the rear. “People call up and say ‘I didn’t know if you were still open with the construction’,” she says. She wants to let everyone know she is, and with Sweetest Day and Homecoming on the horizon, she is hopeful people will not let the construction deter them. Henry Malone, owner of N-Sync cellular phones, is keeping a positive outlook even though he has had to drastically reduce the store’s hours. “Right now, due to the decrease in the traffic and the decrease in business, I’m only open a couple of hours a day,” Malone said. Because it is not economically feasible to keep the normal business hours, he is also available by appointment. He doesn’t mind the sacrifice in exchange for the improvements. He is looking forward to what the finished project will bring to the area. “The area, even before construction, was going through some hard times. At the end of construction it should be a benefit to all the remaining businesses,” Malone said. “I see this as an improvement. This is going to help us, especially with Walgreens,” he said. Malone says if the small businesses along South Park can manage themselves during the downtime and make it through, the benefits of a new street and other improvements will be worth it. “It undoubtedly is going to be a brighter day,” Malone says. ■ 4 OCTOBER 2006 SOUTH HOLLAND TODAY Performing artist brings medals home to South Holland SSC seeking additional employers for Fall Job Fair By Cindy Cruz Brad and Sharon Burrink are proud parents, and they have every right to be. Their fourteen-year-old daughter Brianna participated in her first international competition and took home three medals from the 10th Annual World Championships of The Performing Arts held recently in Los Angeles. Burrink competed in five dance categories – ballet, jazz, lyrical, hip-hop and musical theatre; and four modeling categories – casual, formal, photo model and swimsuit. She won silver in casual and formal modeling, and bronze for the musical theatre number that she performed to the overture from Chicago. Although Burrink has studied dance for several years, it was just a few months earlier that she told her mother she wanted to model. Sharon Burrink immediately began looking on the internet to see what was available locally and just happened to come across the local auditions for the World Championships for the Performing Arts that were being held in Joliet. She was thrilled when Brianna competed and was selected for the U.S. team. The world championships featured participants from 40 countries with competitions in acting, dance, modeling, vocal and instrumental performance. The experience was indeed an adventure that also presented its challenges. Burrink had to deal with lost luggage that contained all of her costumes, a mix-up with her music, and blisters caused by the shoes she wore for her musical theatre performance, but nothing fazed her. “She was very elegant and cute, and she stole the show,” her mother said. Burrink said her daughter modeled for an ad for Baby Fresh baby wipes when she was just six months old. Other than that, she never modeled professionally. Dancing was something that just came naturally. Burrink started studying ballet seven years ago. She caught on so quickly that she was placed with the older girls. She later studied other forms of dance. Her dance teacher, Rachel Nicoli, called her a natural talent who will go far. “Brianna deserves the recognition because she has worked so hard,” she said. Burrink presented a ballet performance at a contest in California. The South Suburban College Career Development & Jobs Center is seeking employers to participate in the Fall 2006 Job Fair. The Job Fair is scheduled for Thursday, Oct. 12, from 9 a.m. - 1 p.m., at the SSC Fitness Center. This is an excellent opportunity for employers to recruit upcoming graduates, current students, alumni and community residents for full-time, part-time, seasonal employment or internships. There is a $50 fee for employer participation. All job seekers are welcome to attend free of charge. For more information about the Fall 2006 Job Fair or CCJobNet.com, please contact JoAnn Morgan at (708) 5962000, ext. 2391 or Linda Kopulos at ext. 2309. Seton to hold Shadow Day Seton Academy will hold Shadow Day on Monday, Oct. 9. Students from the local grade schools can shadow in a group format and get a first hand account of what Seton Academy has to offer. Brianna Burrink proudly displays her medals from the 10th Annual World Championships of the Performing Arts. While Burrink isn’t modeling professionally yet, her mother believes it is just a matter of time because when they were in Hollywood agents had expressed interest in her. She was even approached by MTV about being in a music video, but was too young to participate. Sharon Burrink has spoken with an agent who is interested in her daughter, but said because she lives in the midwest it may take time to place her. He was confident that as she got older she would find work. Her mother is optimistic and hopes that she will be able to earn enough to pay for college. Right now the freshman at Illiana Christian High School is committed to her school work, participating in high school sports, and working with children. As far as the future, Burrink said she definitely wants to continue modeling and dancing and hopes to study the performing arts at Columbia College. Her mother is grateful to all of the sponsors who helped finance their trip to the world championships. They were S & J Construction, Dr. Gene Ossello, Thornton Township Supervisor Frank Zuccarelli, Gibson Realty LLC, Royal Ford of South Holland, Lexmor Engineering LLC, Marilyn Cornell, Joseph R. Bennett, Michael Nylen, Dr. Stephen Shulman, Care Cleaners, Burrink Concrete, and Artistic Interiors, Inc. Burrink looks forward to modeling. “Participating in the world championships was exciting and different. I always liked dancing, and modeling seemed like it would be fun. I like performing and being on stage. It was also great to make friends from all over the United States, South Africa, and France,” she said. Sharon Burrink knows her daughter has a very bright future and is willing to do whatever it takes to help her fulfill her dream. “She was born to do this,” she said. Christ Our Savior prepares for Walk-A-Thon Christ Our Savior will hold their Third Annual Walk-A-Thon on Oct. 31. Anyone wishing to participate should call the school at 333-8173. The walk was previously held at the end of the school year. Students will also continue to make and send cards throughout the year to the homebound parishioners of our six founding parishes. SSC announces fall performances performances during the Fall. The following are scheduled: • Jazz Band Concert on Friday, Oct. 6 at 7:30 p.m. in the college’s Kindig Performing Arts Center. • Evening Chorale Concert on Tuesday, Oct. 10 at 7:30 p.m. in the Kindig Performing Arts Center. • Symphonic Band Concert on Friday, Oct. 13 at 7:30 p.m. in the Kindig Performing Arts Center. • Evening Chorale Concert on Sunday, Oct. 15 at 4 p.m. at the First Christian Reformed Church of South Holland. • Joe Cisar Concert in Lecture Hall A on Friday, Nov. 3 at noon. • Fall Play: The Curious Savage on Nov. 3, 4, and 10 at 8 p.m. and Nov. 11, at 2 and 8 p.m. in the Kindig Performing Arts Center. District 150 announces upcoming activities School District 150 will hold several activities during October. They include the Greenwood Principal Open House at 7 p.m. on Wednesday, Oct. 11, Band Parent Assoc. General Meeting 7:30 p.m. on the Tuesday, Oct. 17, McKinley Principal Open House at 7 p.m. on Wednesday, Oct. 18; and the Band Fundraiser Kickoff on Thursday, Oct. 19. SSC Foundation conducts successful fund drive The South Suburban College Foundation raised more than $170,000 from their two major fundraisers – the fall Annual Donor Drive and the spring Showcase Dinner Dance. The increase in fundraising and investments permitted the Foundation to provide 240 total awards for over $96,000 to SSC students in 2005-06. An additional $30,000 was spent updating the Fine & Performing Arts programs at SSC with new state-of-the-art equipment, and $25,000 was provided to the college by the Foundation to begin construction on a new high-tech multimedia lab. ■ South Suburban College will hold several oday T d ollan s H h t Sou present STUDENT OF THE MONTH By Cindy Cruz Based on a list of criteria provided by South Holland Today, school administrators choose their “South Holland Today Student of the Month.” Students must be residents of South Holland and exemplify the best of their respective school – academically, socially, spiritually, and athletically. Activities involved in at school: She is vice president of Student Council, National Honor Society member, president of the speech team, school announcer, plays French horn in the marching band, and works on the yearbook. Activities involved in outside of school: Constance is assistant director of her church youth group. This summer she participated in the Summer National Forensic League for Speech and hosted a teen talk show on WKKC 89.3. Her goal is to become a broadcast journalist. CONSTANCE STANLEY 12TH GRADE THORNWOOD HIGH SCHOOL Parents: Nicole Young and Gary Stanley. How long have you been a resident of South Holland? 8 years. Favorite Subject: History. “It is important to me because I believe we learn from the past.” Insight into school: “Thornwood is an excellent place to learn. There is a lot of growth going on. I am happy to be a Thunderbird.” SOUTH HOLLAND TODAY OCTOBER 2006 South Holland police officers receive awards Police offer trick or treating tips South Holland Police Officers Maurice Roberts (above, center) and Justin Bultema (left, center) were presented with an Award of Valor by Police Chief Warren Millsaps (left) and Trustee N. Keith Chambers (right). The Award of Valor is given to officers for demonstrating great bravery while in the line of duty. OCT at.. R E B O . Sand Ridge Nature Center ♦ Introduction to Nature Photography – Saturday, Oct. 7, 1:30 p.m. Join nature photographer Joe Nowak for an informative class to learn tips and techniques for creating better 35mm photos. Nowak has been a regular presenter at the Heritage Festival’s Gallery of Art. Bring your camera and tripod and be prepared to go outside if the weather allows. Adults only, registration ends Oct. 5. ♦ Wee Wonders: Falling Leaves – Thursday Oct. 12, 1:30 p.m. Preschoolers can come out for their very own nature program about fall, and the changing of the seasons. ♦ Birdfeeder Workshop – Saturday, Oct. 14, 1:30 p.m. A variety of bird feeders and tips on building them from common materials will be featured. Learn which seeds attract which birds. Visitors are invited to create their own thistle feeder from a one-liter or smaller pop bottle (bring a clean, dry one). 5 ♦ Indian Summer and Fall Color Walk – Saturday, Oct. 21, 1:30 p.m. How was this time of year important for Native Americans and early settlers? How and why do autumn leaves attain their beautiful displays of color? Join us for answers to these questions, including a guided walk in search of the most colorful spot at Sand Ridge. Register by Oct. 19. ♦ Native American Cultural Workshop: Dream Catchers – Saturday, Oct. 28, 1:30 p.m. Learn about the significance of dream catchers in Native American cultures. Make your own neotraditional dream catcher under the tutelage of one of our volunteers, who herself is Native American. A twohour program for ages 7 and up (with adult). Register by Oct. 14. Fee of $6 per person, pre-paid; non-refundable. The South Holland Police Department is requesting that all trick or treating be done on October 31 between 4 and 7 p.m. By planning your route ahead of time and staying on course, you can visit a number of homes and still make it home before dark. Here are some tips to use while out with the children: ✔ Trick or treat in groups of only four or five children with one teen or adult accompanying them. The teen or adult should carry a flashlight in case it begins to get dark while they are out. ✔ Trick or treat on well-lighted streets and go to homes of people that you know and that have porch lights on. ✔ Stay on sidewalks at all times and always walk. ✔ For those of us who are greeted by our young neighbors who are trick or treating, take the time to introduce yourself to the children and parents who come to your door. ✔ As an alternative to trick or treating, neighbors can plan a joint costume party for the children on your block. This occasion can be used as another way for neighbors to come together and become familiar with the children in your neighborhood and have fun! ✔ Those who wish to forego trick or treating can attend the Village’s annual Best friends, Laurel White (left) and Kaila Thornton, dress in their best princess gowns for the Harvest Fest. Harvest Fest to be held on Thursday, Oct. 26 at the Community Center from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. Festivities will include a costume judging contest, candy bags (while supplies last), games for children ages 3 to 12 and pumpkin decorating. Children should bring a pumpkin from home. The materials to decorate it will be supplied. Space is limited to 150, and participants must reside in South Holland. Registration continues until Oct. 17, or while space remains. ■ Early voting now available Starting this month, Illinois voters may take part in early voting in advance of the November election. Early voting allows people to vote before the election without having a reason or excuse. Those early voters must vote in person. Early Voting will take place from Oct. 16 through Nov. 2 at the South Holland Village Hall. Early voters must present a valid ID. Mail-in absentee voting applications are available online or at the Village Hall if you are not able to vote on the Early Voting dates. Absentee Voting Dates and Deadlines: Oct. 10: LAST DAY TO REGISTER TO VOTE Oct. 11: First day of grace-period registration and voting Oct. 12: First day of early voting Oct. 24: Last day of grace-period registration and voting Nov. 2: Last day of early voting; First day the Clerk’s office can receive absentee ballot application from voters who have been admitted to a hospital, nursing home or rehabilitation center five days or less before Election Day. Nov. 6: Last day of in-person absentee voting; Last day Clerk’s office can receive absentee ballot applications from individuals admitted to a hospital, nursing home or rehabilitation center. Nov. 7: ELECTION DAY 3-on-3 basketball event More information on voting and elections is online at www.voterinfonet.com. COFFEE WITH THE MAYOR You are cordially invited to have coffee with the Mayor. Because communication is the very essence of our strength as a Village government, morning or evening Mayor’s Coffees are held quarterly at the Village Hall or Community Center to provide an informal opportunity for residents to meet with the Mayor and other Village officials to share comments and concerns. NEXT MAYOR’S COFFEE: TUES., DEC. 5, 2006, 7:30 AM The Village of South Holland, Calvary Academy, Spirit of God Fellowship and Restoration Ministries recently presented a 3-on-3 Basketball Tournament for boys grades 6-12. The event was held Saturday, August 12, behind Calvary Academy and inside the school’s gymnasium. Coffee will be held at the South Holland Village Hall 6 OCTOBER 2006 EDITORIAL PAGE Ask . . . South Holland Today! By Marlene Cook Q With winter coming and utility rate A hikes poised to take effect, I’m concerned about being able to pay my utility bills. Does the Village know of any programs designed to help the elderly pay for heat and electricity? A Thornton Township has a gas program, which is a winter project with limited funds. Help is available to those who qualify through Catholic Charities located in South Holland. Call 333-8379 and ask for intake worker, Ms. Dobbins. Manager Fred Shannon said that your call will be returned within a few days as Ms. Dobbins receives more than 100 calls per day from the region. So be patient. Recipients are limited to help only once every couple of years. Q I noticed an excavation taking place in Veterans Park and a pile of dirt. Can you provide details about this project? The large pile of dirt will be removed by the end of the year and the excavation will become a detention pond, or wetland. The pond will be shaped and beautifully landscaped with thousands of aquatic plants. This project coincides with the reconstruction of South Park Avenue and the separation of the combined sewer under the street. The old, combined sewer system accommodated both sewage and storm water. The new system will allow storm water to be diverted to the detention pond and when it peaks the water will be returned to the Little Calumet River. QI frequent the businesses along South Park Avenue, but with that street being closed, where can I park? A Signs have been posted “everywhere” in the Town Center area inviting drivers to follow the arrows to several parking lots. Parking is available behind Roosevelt School, behind the bowling alley with access from 161st Place, and on the northeast corner of Route 6 and South Park Avenue (the old bank parking lot). The sidewalks will remain open throughout construction and the street is expected to be open mid-to-late November in time for Christmas shopping.■ SOUTH HOLLAND TODAY WISDOM & ENCOURAGEMENT FROM OUR CHURCHES The South Holland Ministerial Association, in support of South Holland’s Village theme of “Faith...Family...Future” endorses this monthly column.The viewpoints expressed herein are those of the writer and do not constitute official endorsement by South Holland Today or the South Holland Village administration. What’s Holding You Back I believe most individuals desire a successful life and want to see their dreams come to fruition. Most people desire to be successful parents and successful in their careers. Most people desire to be successful as friends and as husbands and wives. Even one who is determined to be a failure wants to succeed at failing. If so many people have it in their heart to achieve, why do so many fall short? Many of us do not have a problem with desiring, planning or attempting something. The problem, however, comes when we try to gain or acquire the thing that we desire. I can plan to go back to school, but that does not mean I am going to go. I can plan on starting a new business but that does not mean that I will do it. There’s something in between desiring and obtaining. This space in between is a struggle. That word implies opposition, forces seeking to block accomplishment. Have you ever wondered why your car would not start the day of your interview for your new job? Just when you decided to put your financial house in order, the car breaks down, the furnace goes out or the roof starts leaking. If one is to be successful and victorious in this life, he or she must be able to overcome all those opposing forces. But there is an opposing force that is more difficult to tame. Individuals who set sail toward success must eventually deal with this foe, which can be found in the nearest mirror. What do you do when you come to the realization that you are holding yourself back? Allow Jesus to step in and help you overcome your struggle and you will soar to heights that you never thought were possible. – Kevin Davenport New Beginning Church Standard Time ‘ Fall Back’ Remember to set your clock BACK on October 29! S O U T H HOLLAND TO DAY Welcome, new residents! ‘New Homeowner’ packets available at Village Hall. THE PEOPLE SAY: Behind the scenes at Gallery of Art Dear Editor, I wanted to tell you what took place at the art gallery this year but kept forgetting to write it down. This may not sound like much, but there was an important event that happened behind the scenes. There was a weight lifted off someone’s heart at the gallery. It seems that one of the young men at the show, a young artist of 22 years old, had been a real pain of a student and gave the teachers a lot of grief - cutting classes, disrespecting them, a real bully to others! On Thursday night this gifted young man went up to the art teacher from McKinley and introduced himself, and apologized for the way he treated him, and the way he acted in his class. The teacher remembered him and of course accepted his apology and they talked and laughed together for the remainder of the evening. When I was told this story by the art teacher, he was smiling, and told this to me with much respect for this young man. He was more amazed that he apologized for his actions from so many years ago. The art gallery has created and bonded many new friendships. I am glad I was a part of it. Thank you! – Robin Scheldberg Managing Editor Patricia R. Mahon Editor Mary Ann Thornton Assistant Editor Paul Eisenberg Production Manager Phyllis Pallay Photographer Doris Morrissette Correspondents Marlene Cook, Cindy Cruz Carrie Napoleon, Deidra Somerville Printed at Park Press SOUTH HOLLAND TODAY is published ten times each year by the Communications Department of the Village of South Holland and distributed by bulk mailing to all postal customers in South Holland Zip Code 60473. Additional copies are available free of charge at the Communications Department located at the municipal complex at 16226 Wausau Ave. South Holland Today does not accept paid advertising. SOUTH HOLLAND TODAY aims to provide beneficial information to present and potential residents, businesses, and municipal employees so that community pride is enhanced, investment and reinvestment in the community are encouraged, participation in community events is stimulated, and public dialogue about issues affecting community life takes place. SOUTH HOLLAND TODAY OCTOBER 2006 Petting Zoo and Pony Rides – a busy place for the young. ➤ Mayor De Graff, with WGN Anchor Valerie Warner, gives an enthusiastic welcome to runners before the Heritage Haul 5K. ➤ ➤ ➤ Heritage Festival 2006 Heritage Haul attracts a family of walkers. ➤ ➤ Ronald MacDonald greets visitors to the Festival. Hosting a Diversity Dinner By Deidra Somerville It’s said that variety is the spice of life. That’s true not only for the food we eat, but the people we encounter. Diversity Dinners are a great way to entertain both your love for food and your love for meeting people. There are many approaches that can be taken to the evening given your particular need or lifestyle. Here are a few suggestions: ✔ Cater in: This may be an obvious choice for some, but for others who feel that entertaining means cooking, this may be something different. Working mothers who often cook dinner during the week may find this to be a great way to relax a little more and let someone else do the cooking for a change. You deserve it. There are some great ethnic restaurants in and around our area that can fill the bill quite nicely. ✔ Pick a theme: For those who really like to cook and would like to try your hand at a thematic cultural menu, there are an exhaustive list of possibilities to choose from. Many dishes that work wonders on the taste buds are deceivingly simple and there are websites with great recipes to guide you step-by step through the process. Some accents around your home can bring your theme to life and make the evening more festive. ✔ Eat out: Many hosts and guests love to enjoy a great restaurant together, which saves on time and energy that is focused on your guests having a great time. Many restaurants have nice private rooms if you prefer, in order to create an atmosphere that doesn’t compete with the hustle and bustle of a great restaurant. Everyone can and will chip in, but it may be worth it for people who really have a lifestyle that caters to this choice. ✔ Incorporate the children into the hosting duties: For families with young children, it’s great to give them an opportunity to feel part ownership of the evening. Let them help you pour the teaspoon of cinnamon into that rice pudding, set the table, or serve the appetizers. If you have a small table you can have your children sit there at a formal setting along with any other children that may arrive. ✔ Ask an expert: If you want to host this year, but want to know more about how it works and what the experience is like, call the Village (210-2918) and ask to be connected with someone who has hosted before and is hosting again this year and who may have a similar lifestyle background to your own. That person can be a resource who can help you bring your diversity dinner to life. SIMPLE IDEAS Sign up today! See below for Diversity Dinner form Gallery of Art, a popular venue for local artists. VILLAGE OF SOUTH HOLLAND 2006 DIVERSITY DINNERS October 14, 2006 Registration ➤ Communications Commission Village of South Holland 16226 Wausau Ave. South Holland, Il 60473 Phone: 210-2918 Fax To: (708) 210-1019 Thornwood High School Band entertains. Mayor's Leadership Awards Nominations are being accepted for the 2007 Mayor's Leadership Awards, honoring residents who believe in and support the Village of South Holland's values of Faith, Family and Future. Nominees are being sought for each of the three categories. Deadline to submit a nomination is Dec. 31, 2006. Nomination forms are available at Village Hall and online at www. southolland.org. The winners of the awards presented in February 2005 were: 2005 FAITH LEADERSHIP AWARD Heino Blaauw “I am grateful to serve in a Village where not only our Mayor, but many leaders govern and lead us with Christian integrity.” 2005 FAMILY LEADERSHIP AWARD Cindy Miston “My dad taught me to invest in the things that are important to me…It is an honor to invest in people’s lives.” 2005 FUTURE LEADERSHIP AWARD South Holland Police Officer Maurice Roberts – “South Holland is indeed a community that exemplifies a heritage of faith, a community that places extreme emphasis on family values and a community that values honesty, integrity and morality. I ask you to continue this endeavor as we march forward together.” 7 t I/we would like to host a DIVERSITY DINNER. Please circle one option: At My/Our Home Other Location: _____________________ t I/we would like to attend a DIVERSITY DINNER. NAME (Mr/Mrs/Ms/Dr/etc.)___________________________________________________ SPOUSE/PARTNER NAME____________________________________________________ MAILING INFORMATION (Please circle mailing preference: Home/Business) HOME Address_______________________________________________________ City_________________________ State___________ Zip________ Telephone__________________________ Fax _______________________ E-mail ____________________________ BUSINESS Title & Company_______________________________________________ Address_______________________________________________________ City_________________________ State___________ Zip________ Telephone _________________________ Fax _______________________ E-mail_____________________________ This information helps to ensure a healthy balance at the dinners. Age Range: (Circle One) 18 – 25 26 – 35 36 – 50 51 – 65 66 & above Do you have/like pets? Do you smoke? Race/Ethnicity (optional):__________________ Religious Affiliation (optional):_______________ Yes Yes No No Do you have children? Yes If yes, children participating? Yes No No 8 OCTOBER 2006 WHAT’S GOIN’ ON IN TOWN? SOUTH HOLLAND TODAY Old friends reunited http://www.southholland.org DON A. DE GRAFF, President 15962 Louis Ave. • 339-8707 • 210-2911 By Deidra Somerville Give blood SALLIE D. PENMAN, Clerk 895-0854 The next blood drive will be held October 5 from 4 to 8 p.m. at Redeemer Lutheran Church located at 651 E. 166th Street. ARTHUR L. BENNETT, Trustee 418-5532 N. KEITH CHAMBERS, Trustee 251-5010 Stay safe The Police Department is offering informational videos on safety measures and terrorism education for residents. They will be made available to community policing meetings that are held for various neighborhoods. For more information, visit www.southholland.org. Harvest Fest The annual event will be held October 26 at the Community Center and features costume judging, candy bags (while supplies last), games for children and pumpkin decorating. Participants are asked to bring their own pumpkins from home. Materials for decorating will be supplied. The program is open to South Holland residents only and limited to 150 children ages 3-12. An adult must accompany eligible children. Advanced registration is required and is now being taken at the Community Center through Oct. 17. Good as Gold St. Jude the Apostle Parish will be celebrating its Golden Jubilee on Sunday, October 28. They will be joined at the Feast of St. Jude the Apostle by Cardinal Francis George at the 11:30 a.m. Liturgy. There will be a full year of events, activities and celebrations. The Parish Council is leading and organizing this year of jubilee. Go to their website, www.stjudetheapostle.org for more information. Watch what you heat Once again its Fire Prevention Week. The theme of this year’s campaign, Oct. 814, is “Prevent Cooking Fires: Watch What You Heat” with a special focus on preventing cooking fires in the home. Daylight Savings Time ends on October 29 – don’t forget to check and change the batteries on fire alarms in your homes and businesses. LARRY W. DeYOUNG, Trustee 339-4535 CYNTHIA L. DOORN, Trustee 339-6891 MATHEW JAMES, Trustee 332-0529 Members of the Thornton Township High School class of 1941 reunited for their 65th class reunion in September at the Double Tree Hotel in Alsip. Pictured are (back row, from left) Al Jacobsma, Tony Jansma, Henrietta (Zeldenrust) Kooy, Mel Hoekstra, Sophia (Acquaviva) Stump, Clarence Leensvaart, Howard Kamen, Laverne (Dalenberg) Kampen, Kathryn (DeYoung) Vinke, Marjorie (Oling) DeYoung; (front, from left) Lenora (Lagestee) Mulder, Virginia (Bruin) Dalenberg, Marie (DeYoung) Reznor. Montessori students plant seeds JOHN SULLIVAN, Trustee 331-4061 BETH HERMAN, Treasurer 596-1604 Village Board Meetings Municipal Building • 16226 Wausau Ave. First and Third Mondays of each month, 8:00 PM Village Administrator J. Wynsma • 210-2913 Deputy Village Administrator Patricia R. Mahon • 210-2906 Director of Communications Mary Ann Thornton • 210-2918 Members of the kindergarten Flood Assistance Coordinator Fred Block • 210-2915 class at Laran Montessori School Economic Development Coord. Virgil O. Jordan, Jr. • 210-2915 assist Montessori Directress, Dir. of Parks & Recreation Wally Widelski • 331-2940 Mrs. Faber, planting. with Students the fall included Dir. of Community Development & Public Works Frank E. Knittle • 339-2323 Daniel Powell, Isaiah O’Connor, Police Chief Warren Millsaps • 331-3131 Nia Bell, Paige Alexander, Fire Chief James Wiley • 210-2922 Khairi Ross, Brandon Krusza, Saige Porter. ARADE OF OF LIGHTS IGHTS ROUTE ROUTE PARADE Fire Inspector Randall Stegenga • 331-3123 Dir. of Emergency Services Disaster Agency John Thomas, Jr. • 210-2919 Village Engineers Robinson Engineering • 331-6700 Village Attorney / Prosecutor Hiskes & Dillner • 333-1234 Public Access TV Coordinator Herb DeYoung • 339-2744 Librarian Alma DeYoung • 331-5262 Regularly Scheduled Meetings Village Board Committees ............. 1st & 3rd Mon., 7 PM Cable Commission .......................... Call for information Parking Hearings .................................. 2nd Tues., 1 PM Local Ordinance Hearings .................... 2nd Tues., 2 PM Housing Hearings .................................. 3rd Tues., 5 PM Economic Develop. Commission ....... 1st Tues., 7:30 PM Planning & Develop. Commission ...... 1st Wed., 7:30 PM Flood Control Liaison Committee ..... Call for information Communications Commission ................ 4th Tues., 7 PM Community Development Committee ...... 3rd Mon., 7 PM Neighborhood Groups Committee ........ 4th Sat., 8:30 AM Mediation & Reconciliation Commission .................................. Call for information Waste Disposal Day Household Hazardous Waste Disposal Day is Saturday, October 21, 2006, 8:00am – 3:00pm at the Midlothian Metra Station South Parking Lot, 147th Place and Waverly Avenue. This is an opportunity to rid your home of hazardous waste products! You must be in a vehicle and may have a wait of 10 to 40 minutes. For more information, call 312-751-6633 or visit www.mwrd.org. Because special meetings are sometimes scheduled and cancellations and changes frequently occur, it is always wise to call 708/210-2900 ahead of time to confirm individual meetings. Ministerial Assn. helps Fire Department The South Holland Ministerial Association voted at its last meeting to donate the offerings collected at the Labor Day Combined Worship Service to the South Holland Fire Department to assist in fire prevention education. POLICE - FIRE - PARAMEDICS 9-1-1 Non-Emergency: Police • 331-3131 Fire • 331-3123 VILLAGE CLERK’S OFFICE See the Bulls play South Holland Night with Chicago Bulls, is scheduled for Monday, November 6, 7:00 pm, against Milwaukee. Tickets are $38 each or $50 with transportation. Call 331-2940 for information. ■ VILLAGE OF SOUTH HOLLAND Phone • 210-2910 FAX • 210-1019 COLLECTOR & WATER BILLING The Oct. 10 Parade of Lights honors firfefighters who have lost their lives in the line of duty. Douglas P. Maicach was one of South Holland’s own who will be remembered in this memorial. 16226 Wausau Ave. • 210-2900 Office hours: Mon. thru Fri., 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM; Sat., 8:00 AM to Noon