Chicago Ridge Village President Gene Siegel (Right) and Village Clerk

Chicago Ridge 75th Diamond Jubilee Anniversary

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Chicago Ridge Village President Gene Siegel (right) and village clerk Chuck Tokar invite The Reporter residents and friends of the village to join them in the celebration of Chicago Ridge's 75th Dia- Section 1-B mond Jubilee Anniversary. Mayor Siegel and Clerk Tokar are pictured sitting in an authentic Thursday, July 13, 1989 1914 Ford Touring Model T, provided courtesy of Skip Hobson. (Photo by Ron Rehfeldt) The Reporter - Thursday, July 13, 1989 - Page 2

Progress through development keynotes village history

On our 75th Anniversary, it is gratifying to see the progress the Village has made in the past, and we look forward to continuing our progress, making Chicago Ridge a better place to live and raise families. Chicago Ridge once was a small residential community with no tax base. Presently, with the development of the commercial properties, Chicago Ridge has built a tax base enabling the Village to expand services to its residents. Chicago Ridge is looking to the future in the development of light industrial properties and expanding the commercial areas to ensure the residents of a well-balanced community, with increased services with minimal or no cost to its residents. On behalf of my family, and our Village family, we wish to extend to all of our residents a Happy 75th Anniversary. Eugene L. Siegel, Mayor VILLAGE OF CHICAGO RIDGE

Chicago Ridge Village President Gene Siegel looks to the future from the perspective of a 1914 Ford Touring Model T. (Photo by Ron Rehfeldt) CHICAGO RIDGE DIAMOND JUBILEE FESTIVAL Birmingham & Oak Avenue — July 12 - 16 CARRY-IN M/ FREEDOM PARK ALCOHOL PROHIBITED Saturday's entertainment Sunday's entertainment provided by provided by

WEDNFSDAY, JULY 12 6.00 urn. Opens 6:15 Lip Sync Contest 6:30 Beatle Brothers Worth Bank and Trust 8:00 David Orion—Comedian SATURDAY, JULY 15 8:30 Big Twist & The Mellow Fellows NOON Opens SUNDAY, JULY16 —Chicago Blues 1 - 6 Pony Rides NOON Opens 12:30 The Broughams 1 - 6 Pony Rides & Petting Zoo THURSDAY, JULY 13 2:00 DuPage Repertory Theatre— 12:30 Harmonica Duet 6:00 p.m Opens "Alice Through the Looking Glass" 1:15 Chicago Natural Gas 6:15 Harmonica Duet 3:00 Franz Benteler and the —Barbershop Quartet 6:30 Breakaway Band—Country/Western Royal Strings Orchestra 1:45 Chicago Chamber Brass Quintet 8:00 Dave Rudolph—Comedian 4:30 Chiefs of Staff—International —Classical 8:30 Dick Holliday & the Bamboo Gang Championship Barbershop Quartet 2:30 4 Guys Standing Around Singing 5:00 Chicago Chamber Brass Quintet 4:00 Big Band Machine FRIDAY JULY 14 —Classical 4:45 Ed Fiala—Comedian 6:00 am. Opens 6:45 Introduction of Queens of the Ridge 6:15 Mickey & the Memories 6:00 Lip Sync contest 1979-1989 7:00 David Orion—Comedian 6:45 David Orion—Comedian 7:00 Backstreet Band 8:00 Queen of the Ridge Presentation 7:00 Colortone Band 8:30 Ed Holden—Comedian 8:15 Cryan'Shames 8:45 Dancing Noodles 9:00 Fayrewether Band 10:00 Fireworks Finale

FOOD VENDORS Cajun Cuisine—Orca Ent Peterson's Ice Cream The Patio Connie's Pizza Glenwood Oaks Restaurant Mi Pueblo Boz"s Hot Dogs Mama Greco's Pizza Tropical Coolers Yo-Gert Nick's Pizza Mickey's Gyros Elephant Ears Frannie's Funnel Cakes ChLRidge Athletic Assoc Jack & Pats The Rib House Golden Phoenix Boy Scout Troop 665

•••• •••••• -Chicago Ridge 75th Anniversary The Reporter - Thursday, July 13, 1989 - Page 3

'Come Grow With Us." VILLAGE OF CHICAGO RIDGE 10655 SOUTH OAK AVENUE CHICAGO RIDGE, ILLINOIS 425-7700

On behalf of the Village Clerk and the Board of Trustees of the Village of Chicago Ridge, we would like to take this opportunity, to thank all of the Residents for the trust they have placed in us, and for the privilege of serving such a fine community over the years.

By working together with all the department employees of our town - the police, the fire, the public works, the clerical staff, and all the appointed personnel - we have made great strides in our progress and growth. In the last few years,

Eugene L Siegel, we've seen tremendous development that has President made our Village a leader in the southwest Charles E. Tokar, Clerk suburbs.

Janet Becker, Treasurer At this time, we would like to extend our Trustees: sincere congratulations to our Residents on this Edward F. Buettner Lawrence C. Grove Donald J. Ryan milestone in our history -the 75th Anniversary of George A. Ryniak James S. Saunoris the incorporation of Chicago Ridge! And we wish, Maureen P. Socha to each and every family, prosperty and good health in the coming years. Michael Rio, Police Chief Robert Miller, Fire Chief Peter Chiapetti, Supt. of Public Works J. Kenneth Socha, Eugene L. Siegel, Mayor Building Comrn. VILLAGE OF CHICAGO RIDGE

The Chicago Ridge Post Office is offering special cancellations commemorating the 75th Anniversary on Saturday & Sunday, 2 p.m. to 8 p.m. Philately - Special ^^^ Available The Reporter - Thursday, July 13, 1989 - Page 4 Library contributes to community life

increase the library tax rate to a 40 cents ney and Leonard Musich, executive ceiling was voted down by Chicago vice-president of the Worth Bank and Ridge residents. Trust Co. was for $135,000 at an interest After the referendum was defeated, rate of 5 per cent payable in 60 Bernadine Zarecki, library board presi- months. dent said, "At this point all we can do is Marvin Labahn, board treasurer said, re-evaluate our financial situation and "The fiscal policy of short term financ- wait until the next board meeting to dis- ing, on both the building and land cuss our plans." purchase as well as the remodeling loan A second referendum took place will save the board considerable money Saturday, Feb. 18, 1978 with the voters in interest payments out of its tax approving a library tax levy increase revenues." from 15 cents per $100 of assessed valua- The new Chicago Ridge Public Li- tion to 33 cents per $100 of assessed brary building was formally dedicated valuation. on Sept. 30, 1979. With this victory at the polls the The mortgage for the building and reconstruction project moved rapidly land purchase together with the remod- toward under the direction of the trus- eling loan totaling $225,000 was retired tees, library staff, Mayes, Williams and in full April 21, 1982 just six years after Partners, Architects and John Bryk, the project was started. This accom- field representative. plishment was possible through prudent K.G. Anderson Construction was the fiscal policies exercised by the trustees. general contractor. The second phase of the library build- The total cost of remodeling the building program began with a ground break- ing amounted to $142,070 at a rate of ing ceremony on May 2. 1983, and $37.89 per sq. ft., considerably less than culminated with the dedication of the the cost of new construction. Anne Pote addition, honoring the The remodeling loan negotiated be- original library commissioners with ap- Chicago Ridge Library's trustees are (from left) Norma Willeford, Jackie Quintos, secretary Sharon Ganzer, tween Ken Friker, library board attor- propriate ceremonies on Oct. 23, 1983. president Juanita Babcock, vice president Marvin LaBahn, treasurer Patricia Loewe and Patricia Raczynski. (Photo by Ron Rehfeldt) sion in its mission, Anne Pote, the first the village municipal offices. By Marvin F. Labahn Sr. head librarian of the institution, organized In 1974 after numerous meetings be- "The Friends of the Public Library" to tween library trustees and village of- Chicago Ridge village trustees, just 50 raise funds, solicit book donations, build ficials all the plans were "scrubbed." years after the village was founded, en- shelving, catalog materials and work as This took place at the end of November acted Ordinance 367 on Jan. 7, 1964, volunteer staffers until a referendum when the Board of Village Trustees and Deliriously authorizing Village President Arthur could be held to establish a board of li- its president were indicted on several Cooper to appoint a three member com- brary trustees with authority to levy a li- alleged charges by a federal grand jury mission to "conduct and operate a library tax and hire a paid work force. and were removed from office. Serving You brary for the inhabitants of Chicago On Dec. 10, 1966 the electorate ap- Shortly after Chicago Ridge voters el- Ridge." proved a referendum to support a full ected Eugene L. Siegel as village presi- For 16 years Commission members included Anne time library and established a board of dent, along with a slate of six new Pote, chairman, Elaine Zarnecki and trustees that included, Richard Finnan, trustees, the library board brought the SL* Dolores Gudyka as members. Yetta now deceased, Audrey Clinton, Margaret need for more space to their attention. and Proud of it! Lorensana was selected to take the place Slager. Don Livesey, Sr., Jessie Hall and In the meantime, while the newly el- of Mrs. Gudyka after the family moved a Jeanne Landuyt. ected village officials familiarized short time later to Downers Grove, II. Finding a suitable home for the newly themselves with their duties and studied To assist the newly created commis- established library posed a problem for the financial condition of the town, the the village trustees but eventually the library trustees began a search for land Mall Library Branch commission, during the summer of 1965, and/or buildings suitable for an expand- was granted the use of a single room in ed library. Specializing Early in 1982, developer Ken Tucker the basement of the Ridge School at Eventually, after two years of study offered the Chicago Ridge Public Li- 105th and Oxford ave. to prepare the and reviewing many possible library in brary trustees a license to operate a materials tor public "=P sites, the village board approved the reading room at the Chicago Ridge Mall Daniel Plecki, a village trustee, ^ ^~-i* 1977 tax referendum proposal to

Chicago Ridge 75th Anniversary »••••••• •• The Reporter - Thursday, July 13, 1989 - Page 5 Home to veterans' groups

ington. never touch the ground—it should only By Tara Oosterbaan The Legion Hall is occupied almost lie down to cover a casket." every day of the week. Its use is made The Glenn Maker Post is active in the Two veterans organizations make possible, free of charge, for many non- VAVS. The VA's Volunteer Service Chicago Ridge their home. American profit organizations. Just some of them Legionnaires spend considerable time Legion Glenn Maker Post 1160 are The Vietnam Veterans of America. at Hines Veterans Hospital providing which started in the village in 1947 W.I.C.. Women. Infants and Children, a support and assistance. Cook County funded healthcare clinic. Donations are made to numerous and Chicago Ridge Memorial V.F.W. MUSE, a local writer's group, several charitable organizations. Benefits are Post 2255 which recently cele- senior citizens groups. The Disabled sponsored for needy families and brated its 50th anniversary. American Veterans, the Girl Scouts of seriously ill children, as well as holiday Both serve the interests of America, the Boy Scouts of America and parties and picnics to which ever one veterans in a variety of ways and various YMCA and YWCA groups. is welcome. seek also to serve their com- Since one of the Legion's programs Helping your fellow man is what the munities as well. has always been Americanism, the post American Legion Glenn Maker Post 1160 is all about. Members and non- The American Legion Glenn provides from time to time, flags for school classrooms American Legion members devote their-ime ana energy, Maker Post 1160 was named to determined to take ca e of those that are honor the memory of the only awards are given to area school children and the Auxiliary sponsors an essay less fortunate In thewords of Frank Ab- serviceman from Chicago Ridge contest every year batemarco. "God bbss them all." killed in action during WW II. Sgt. Glenn Maker, at 27 years of age was With regard to the theme of Ameri- Chicago Ridfe Memorial V.F.W. canism, when asked about the recent wounded, and died in a Belgium hos- Post 2255. loca'ed at 10537 S. Ridge- issue of flag desecration. Frank Ab- pital on January 4. 1945. batemarco. current Finance Officer and land Ave. in Jhicago Ridge, cele- A staunch supporter of the Veterans Memorial in Worth, along with Chicago former commander replied instantly. brated its 50t.i Anniversary in 1985. Ridge veterans organizations, is Mayor Gene Siegel, pictured here with the In 1947. an initiatory group of World "The American flag is meant to fly and (Coiiinued on page 6) foundation's executive chairman Al Grajek. (Photo by Ron Rehfeldt) War II veterans applied for and were granted a charter for the Glenn Maker Post 1160 by the American Legion. Department of Illinois Early meetings 1 were held in the Ruceis Tavern, once known as the Twin Pines Lounge, and at WORTH TOWNSHIP l he Chicago Ridge Village Hall. The first I'ost Commander. William Howard (Jinn is a current member and now resides in California Serving You Since 1850 The village hall was also the meeting CHICAGO RIDGE plate for the first nrn^^ers of the post :mx\}\ •.— HI wives, mothers, sisters and (laughters of Legion members were in- ON vited to attend The auxiliary was granted a charter in .January 1953 under the Town Hall auspices of Mrs Lilah Kriespe. then the YOUR 75th YEAR 11601 South Pulaski 8th District Director The first auxiliary Alsip, Illinois 60658 president was Mrs. George Bizzotto. JU5IP Plans were soon underway to make a (312)371-2900 permanent home for the Glenn Maker i Post on Aug. 15. 1952. a lot was purchased at the Legion's present location. 10739 S. Ridgeland Avenue in Ortigara's Chicago Ridge. An adjacent piece of land was donated by Herbert C Polchow. a past commander and chiMb'""1' --'" OI A main ambition of the post was to Musicville Chic, have its own building and in October 1955. ground was broken for the con- Since 1947 struction of the Legion Hall. Comman- der Ken Schaal and auxiliary president. WAREHOUSE SHOWROOM Township Services Mrs John Stecker. shared the honor of • Circuit Breakers digging the first shovel full of dirt. • Dental & Medical Check Ups The building was dedicated on June 9. • Family Counseling 1957 Led by the Battery C 13 AAA Mis- • General Assistance sile BN Color Guard, legion and aux- • Handicap Vehicle Stickers iliary members marched from 107th and Specializing in • Homeowner's Exemption Oxford Avenue to the new Legion Hall. • GED and STEP Program The highlight of the dedication cere- Pianos, Organs, Keyboards, • Mini-bus Transportation mony u.-nq the presentation of an oil • Podiatry Services painting, a portrait oi iiic i<»= monn • Road & Bridge Maker, which had been given to the • Senior Citizens Organization Legion by Elmer Hankes. uncle of Glenn • Operation Able Maker. Among the honored guests were Chvinovas • Youth Recreation Maker's mother. Mrs. Mary Maker, and his sister. Mrs. Marion Brosnan. The current Post Commander is SUPERVISOR HIGHWAY COMMISSIONER Shawn Regan. He leads a membership of Joan P. Murphy Robert D. Smith Jr. 245 veterans from various branches of — Over 200 Instruments — the armed forces. He will soon yield his CLERK position to Gene Plattner. who is at this Thomas'Bucf Gavin time Service Officer. A distinguished member of the post Lessons, Music, Piano Tuning TRUSTEES for nearly 40 years is Edward J. Der- ASSESSOR winski. who serves on the cabinet of William E Connors Donald I. Bettenhausen President Bush as Veterans Affairs Sec- Michael R. Davies retary. The Department of Veterans Af- 10830 S. Central Ave. COLLECTOR Kathleen M. Spencer fairs was recently established the Emmett'Bucf Meyer Michael H. Witt culmination of two decades of vigorous Legion lobbying to provide America's 423-7910 veterans political muscle in Wash- Chicago Ridge 75th Anniversary The Reporter - Thursday, July 13,1989 - Page 6 Home to veterans

(Continued from page 5) This post was originally established cant lot at 87th and Throop Street. project underway will be to arrange a through the hard work and per- Several years of persistent labor donation, from the post, of a complete paramedic unit to the Village of severance of two veterans organiza- followed, primarily from volunteers, including the Ladies Auxiliary who would Chicago Ridge. tions. Progress Post 2255 and Park serve tail-gate meals to weekend and Chicago Ridge Memorial V.F.W. Post Manor Post 5418. having been evening workers. Grand Opening was 2255 looks forward to continuing its vow formed to help the veterans, their held on the night of Nov. 15, 1958. the to aonor fallen comrades by helping the families and the needy. celebration lasting nearly until dawn. living and the needy. They are thriving, The first members of Progress Post As a result of city expansion. Progress with the hope that younger members 2255. residents of Chicago's South Shore Post was forced to vacate its building. sustain equal dedication and in the next neighborhood, were WWI veterans. This Park Manor Post, a longtime friend and century celebrate its 100th Anniversary. group, having established friendships ally, offered its facility and assistance, meeting in local pubs sharing tales of which soon led to a merge of the two their overseas experiences became of- organizations in June 1967. They called ficially chartered Dec. 14. 1935. themselves Park Manor Post 2255. In As the post held together and pros- July 1969. the post moved to its present pered. WW II G.I.s came home and were location and changed its name to recruited as members. The first actual Chicago Ridge Memorial V.F.W. Post post headquarters, completely remodeled 2255. and equipped with "King Arthur" style The 1989 roster shows a membership leather meeting chairs, a generous of 273 veterans, all having served over- donation from the John J. McShane Post, seas for various branches of the armed was dedicated on Memorial Day. May 30. forces during WW I. WW II. the Korean 1947. War and the War in Vietnam. Approx- Members of the Glenn Maker Post joined other veterans and non-veterans Park Manor Post 5418 was started by a imately one quarter of these members at Memorial Day ceremonies. (Photo by Ron Rehfeldt) group of 27 WW II veterans from the old reside in the Chicago Ridge-Worth area, Park Manor neighborhood. G.I.s joined others living throughout Chicago and consistently, many while still in ser- out of state. Vital support is given to the vice, and the post was installed at the post from the Ladies Auxiliary. The Southmoor Hotel on February 16. 1946. current Commander is Edwin L. Grot- Eventually, plans were made for a sema. Richard E. Duncan, a former new post building to be erected on a va- commander, serves as Historian and was one of the post's original members. Congratualtions Chicago Ridge Memorial V.F.W. Post functions to provide community service. to Use of the facility is donated for use by the Boy Scouts of America, senior citizens groups and for park district ac- Mayor Siegel tivities. Monetary gifts are given to such charitable organizations as Ronald and McDonald House, United Way, the Red Cross. The Salvation Army and the The Village of March of Dimes. The post provides sup- Gene Baniew cz, a member of Glenn port through donations for St. Jude Chil- Maker American Legion Post, dren's Hospital and LaRabida Children's played taps a Memorial Day cere- Chicago Ridge Hospital, as well as offering drug abuse monies at Vettrans Memorial Park education in area high schools. The next in Worth. (Phott by Ron Rehteidt) on their 75th Anniversary CHICAGO / ANNIVERSARY RIDGE M *from ^ounort s • For All Your Gardening Needs Cemetery Decorations House Plants Large Selection Of Plants, Trees & Shrubs Visit our Flower Shop — We have flowers for all occasions: Congressman Weddings, Birthdays,*, Marty Russo Anniversaries, Births, Third District, Illinois Funerals, Holidays Goefeel 10634 S. Cicero Ave. 2233 Rayburn Bldg. Oak Lawn, IL. Washington, D.C. (312) 636-4171 (202) 225-5736 GREENHOUSE • FLORIST . GARDEN CENTER • LANDSCAPING 'IMcflora 6000 W. 11 lth St. Chicago Ridge 19600 S. Harlem Ave; TinleyjPark VISA Phone: 4220972 Phone: 479-9000 or (815) 469-3171

Chicago Ridge 75th Anniversary, The Reporter - Thursday, July 13,1989 - Page 7

WE COULDN'T HAVE DONE IT WITHOUT YOU, CHICAGO RIDGE!

In 1981 Chicago Ridge Mall first opened its doors with less than 50 stores Today the mall is home to over 140 retailers and it continues to grow.

We thank the city of Chicago Ridge, its leaders and its people and congratulate them on their 75th anniversary. We look forward to serving you in the many years to come. Chicago Rickre MdDKMNS" Malr KOHLS

95th Street & Ridgeland Avenue Chicago Ridge, IL The Reporter - Thursday, July 13, 1989 - Page 8 Library personalities

By Marvin Labahn served the residents during the past 22 years include Anne Pote (1964-81). Mark Numerous residents of Chicago West. (1981-1987) and Ardith Living- Ridge, in the early 1960s, were in- stone who began her duties in March strumental in shaping the history of the of 1987 proposed village library. The policy making decisions of a li- They banded together to form "The brary is vested in the board of library Friends of the Public Library" and trustees who are empowered to act worked tirelessly to convince the voters under Illinois Statutes governing the to pass the Dec. 10. 1966 referendum for operation of public libraries. a tax supported public library. Former trustees include Don Livesey The success of that referendum was Sr. (1966-1971). Richard Firman (1966- the result of the efforts of Donald E. and 1977). Jessie Hall (1966-1973), Audrey Margaret Livesey Sr, Audrey Clinton, Clinton (1966-1969), Margaret Slager Richard Firman. Jessie Hall, Dora (1966-1972). Jean Landuyt (1966-1970), Lisa Coglianese Pam Deutscher Julie Hisgen Kross, James and Shirley McMaster. Shirley McMaster (1969-1987). Clifford Margaret Slager. Irene Coglianese, Dean (1971-1972). Thomas Preston Mary Trapp, Mary Vloedman, Elaine (1971-1983). Nancy Saeger (1972-1973). Zarnecki and Mary Young according to David Oberg( 1972-1975), Edward Lloyd historical records. (1972-1973). Chester Antas (1973-1979). Buildings, books and equipment make Betty Wagner (1975-1979), Bernadine up the physical portion of a library but it Zarecki (1975-1988). Edmund Utsch takes a "people oriented" staff to make (1977-1983). James Collins (1981-1987) the facility function. Administrative librarians who have (Continued on page 9)

CONGRATULATIONS

Chicago Ridge & Lisa Laurenkus Tricia Wertheim Tiffany Witt Worth on your Queen of the Ridge to be chosen 75th

Six Chicago Ridge girls have been named finalists in the Queen of the Ridge contest. They are Lisa Coglianese, ANNIVERSARY Pam Deutscher, Julie Hisgen, Lisa Laurenkus, Tricia Wertheim and Tiffany Witt.

CONGRATULATIONS CHICAGO RIDGE We at Kagen Real Estate FOR 75 YEARS OF PROGRESS from are also celebrating our 20th Anniversary Of service to ST°z Chicago Ridge * HOT DOGS and Worth Residents

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Chicago Ridge 75th Anniversary ( The Reporter - Thursday, July 13, 1989 - Page 9 OLOR Parish serves families, community

By Mary Harvey the Veterans of Foreign Wars hall. ture, not just the modern way of thinking. (economics) was not the supreme value ple that it is often more a question of Jesus asked a blind man once. '"What Support for the new congregation Spiritual roles are lost sight of in pursuit of Jesus' time," said Fr. Sloan. "Other- what people want for themselves. "The do you want me to do for you?' Rabboni,' came in the form of fund-raisers and of material comforts. They had the same wise He wouldn't have been born in a outside influences make it harder," said the blind man said, 'I wish to see." Jesus parties, organized by Fr. Gentleman's problem in the New Testament." stable." Fr. Sloan. "But it is a question of what a said in reply, 'Be on your way. Your faith former parish, St. Andrew. The parish While it is true that economics are a While religion is often associated in human being chooses to do or to re- has healed you.'" congregation grew, and a school building necessity, and giving toCeasar's what is the popular mind with mere formalism, spond to. People make the choice. Christ creates the invitation. People will avail Trusting in the power of faith to make was erected at 10859 Ridgeland Avenue Ceasar's is important, materialism a way of acting, dressing, or behaving, themselves to come or not." the undone whole again could best des- in 1954. The Franciscan Sisters of Our should not be the supreme value. "That OLOR's mission is to gently remind peo- cribe the mission of Our Lady of the Lady of Perpetual Help soon followed. Ridge, 10811 S. Ridgeland in Chicago The parish eventually outgrew its Ridge. As a source of communal church. Extra masses were celebrated worship, the quiet, family-oriented in the school's auditorium. In 1958, a rec- parish of OLOR focuses on the healing tory and a convent were built. By 1965, 09 forces of faith in a world of diverse the school auditorium was extended Turtle Wax values and splintered vision. with a church building. Current Sunday The parish of OLOR was founded as an attendance requires the use of the school All Cloth Full Service Car Wash offshoot of the parish of St. Christina. hall to accommodate the overflow. Around 1938 Father Alfred Rebedeau, a The school itself, which accom- pastor at St. Christina's, sent one of his modates first through eighth grades, has is proud to participate in assistants to celebrate mass at the a reputation of its own. Its standards of "Ridge," the area known as the Chicago academic excellence are evidenced by Chicago Ridge's 75th Anniversary Ridge-Worth Township community. The its high rank in national school 1 first services were held in the public placement. school at 105th and Oxford Avenue. The church also holds its own as far as The area was growing, slowly but sur- standards of achievement go. In a time ely, from open farm land to more settled when piety does not have a good name, housing units. "The area grew because when social values place more emphasis people came here to get away from the on bank accounts and portfolios than inner-city," said Father Thomas Sloan, vocation, the mission of OLOR con- who has been a pastor at OLOR since tinues to focus on togetherness and the 1987. "People were becoming more need for communal strength. urban. They wanted fresh air and open "What's amusing and even amazing," space." said Monsignor M. Edward Roche, "is to Eventually, the area grew enough to see people stay out 2 or 3 nights a week, be considered a parish. Petitions were or to spend a day standing in line waiting taken up for the inception of a parish, and to get tickets for Bears games or rock turtle wax in June of 1948, Samuel Cardinal Stritch concerts, we (Our Lady) have never had appointed the Reverend William Gentle- people stand in lien for more than an man to establish a new parish. The site hour to get into mir ">•"•- uui mai is numan nature. Paul (the CAR WASH f^e^Ji^at 106th and Ridgeland Apostle) felt the same way about the Avenue. It seated 260 people. Today it is Corinthians. It's all part of human na- & AUTO APPEARANCE Library automation CENTER

Shortly after Mark West assumed the in the face of rising costs, to increase the position of administrative librarian at efficiency of staff members through the 1 the Chicago Ridge Public Library he rec- elimination of tedious manual pro- TRUST YOUR CAR TO ommended that the trustees pursue a cedures and to provide increasingly im- course of action to reduce the large proved services to our patrons." TURTLE WAX amount of clerical labor needed to SAM (Simple Answer Machine) was operate the facility. unveiled to library patrons in August of In 1981 the library acquired a micro- 1983 and has served as a useful tool for computer system that was designed for both patrons and staff. such tasks as book acquisitions, a card 424-1334 When Mark West suddenly resigned catalog, track overdue books, a library his position at Chicago Ridge on Dec. 29, accounting system and an on-line data 1986 to become the Administrative Li- base searching tool. brarian for the Elk Grove Public it was The library, a member of the Subur- the intention of the trustees to employ ban Library System could have par- West as a part-time consultant to assist ticipated in the CLSI circulation system, in upgrading SAM to SAM II LC-MARC 10652 S. Ridgeland Ave. however while there was a potential Compatible. This arrangement did not benefit to be derived from sharing this work out. Hours: cooperative data base, the cost of the One Block South benefit was deemed too high and out- After an intensive study of various op- Mon to Sat — 7:00, am -7:00 pm weighed its usefulness to the local li- tions to upgrade SAM, the Automation of brary. Committee of Bernadine Zarecki, Pat Sunday — 7:00 am to 5:00 pm Raczynski, Pat Loewe, and Sharon Gan- Chicago Ridge Mall In March 1983, Thomas Preston, li- zer recommended that the board join the brary board president said, "We are SLS automation network. Their recom- pleased with Mark West's pioneering mendation was approved. development of the micro-computer All Cloth * Full Service system at the Chicago Ridge Public Li- Early in 1988 the Chicago Ridge brary that has enabled the board to Village trustees approved the request of Car Wash & Auto Appearance Center maintain a stabilized operating budget the library trustees to secure financing to acquire the license and equipment to become a member of SWAN (System- Personalities wide Automation Network) headquar- $1 OFF ANY CAR WASH tered at the SLS headquarters in Burr Good thru (Continued from page 8) Ridge. Not valid with Aug31, 1989 turtle wax* and Joseph Dillon (1984-1985). Ardith Livingstone, administrative li- any other offer The board of library trustees current- brarian said, "99% of the equipment has ly are Juanita Babcock, president, Mar- been acquired, automated "check in and * vin F. Labahn, Sr., vice-president, out" of books and other materials is in ef- Ask about our other professional Detail Services Patricia Loewe, treasurer and Sharon fect, and we are waiting for SLS to com- Handwaxes • Buffing 9 Interior Shampoos • Fabric Protection Ganzer, secretary. Members are Pa- plete the updating of the system wide tricia Raczynski, Jackie Quintos and book catalog holdings before SAM is CAR WA«H 10652 S. Ridgeland Ava 424-1334 Norma Williford. retired. •••••••••••••••< •••• Chicago Ridge 75th Anniversary i The Reporter - Thursday, July 13, 1989 - Page 10 Parks that could

By Sheila Elliott a variety of activities, the RAH program works to reduce the likelihood that area You could call it the story of the little children will face an afternoon with park district that could—could take a nothing to do. handful of recreational programs, a Pratl says that the district's recrea- small amount of district land and 21 tion programs should be strengthened years later have if not the largest park even more in coming months when John system in the area, then one of the area's Hecker, Chicago Ridge's new director of most enthusiastic. parks and recreation, takes over later "We could be doing more," park board this month. The park system has been president Ron Pratl said last week, es- without a recreation director for pecially in developing recreational pro- several months. grams for adult residents. He says he'd like to see Hecker study But with the backing of the local com- the possibility of installing a miniature munity, a new park director coming on golf course and work on strengthening board and optimistic plans for a new rec- the system's current offerings. The reational center, it would seem the chance that Chicago Ridge could, in the Chicago Ridge Park District has already next three to five years, begin planning a made important strides in its goals to new recreation and gym center also serve Chicago Ridge residents. should figure in the district's future, said Founded in 1968, The Chicago Ridge Pratl. Park District comprises eight parks and "We have quality people" on the park playlots scattered over 26.2 acres district staff, he said. "Thanks to them, throughout the community. we've been able to keep (the district) With a full-time staff of six and more running," for all community residents, than 50 seasonal employees, the park said Pratl. district offers residents more than 40 organized activities, covering every- thing from goin' fishing to how to paddle their own canoe. Last year more than 100 Chicago Ridge preschoolers attended the district's specialized preschool programs, an indication of the popularity of that Chicago Ridge's program. "We like children to be individuals," says the program's director Tracy Dalton. "We try to teach creativity," she Largest says, by combining methods from Mon- tessori education, traditional preschool techniques and other methods of instruction. Employer Caring for children is a common theme in many of the district's programs. The popular RAH program—Recrea- Wishes Village of tion After Hours—has grown from a handful of school-age kids two years ago to over 70 in the last year, says Pratl. Chicago Ridge Designed as a type of latch-key program, RAH provides supervised, or- Everyone ganized entertainment after school for a moderate fee for any Chicago Ridge child. 75th Anniversary "No child should have to go home and A sit in front of a TV set," says Pratl. By organizing counselors and offering DlAMONBJUB)gEreST.A Happy Chicago Ridge Public Library Trustees

75th Juanita Babcock Patricia Loewe Tuty 12.**16 • CWaggKj^eJl- I Sharon Ganzer Jackie Quintos Marvin Labahn Patricia Raczynski Commemorative Anniversary Norma Willeford cancellation The Chicago Ridge Post Office will offer a special cancellation to com- Ardith Livingstone memorate the village's 75th Dia- Administrative Librarian mond Jubilee Anniversary. On request, letters will be cancelled at PLASTICS, the post office at 10525 S. Ridgeland 6301 W. Birmingham Ave., Chicago Ridge during office hours between July 12 and July 15. Also the post office mobile facility will be at the Chicago 423-7753 Ridge Fest Saturday, July 15, and P.O. Box 92 • 10800 So. Central Avenue Sunday, July 16, from 2 p.m. until 8 p.m. to provide the special cancella- (5600 West) • Chicago Ridge, Illinois 60415 tion. Philatelic items also will be available. For more information, call 423-3346. Chicago Ridge 75th Anniversary ••• The Reporter - Thursday, July 13, 1989 - Page 11 Mall important to village CUSTOM KITCHENS & BATHS «JSjT^ By Linda J Steger 200.000 square foot store of Sears and the lost, at least temporarily, to Chicago W55EMODE MKBA three-screen, 2.400 seat cinema in the Ridge Mall. Evergreen Park Chamber of fina Custom Ctbmttry [«'"»«"°"«'K>« At the turn of the '80s. the economic Chicago Ridge Theaters, opened July Commerce President Robert E. Ken- on your 75th Anniverssiy fate of Chicago Ridge turned as well. The 31. nedy helped organize the campaign Starlight Drive-in at 95th Street and Finally on Oct. 3. 1981 the final "Shop in Evergreen" during Aug. 24 and Certified Kitchen Designer On Staff Ridgeland Avenue was torn down and a touches were set on the 73-acre site Sept. 30 to promote local business and foundation to build a 900.000 square foot which used to be drive-in movie counteract the consumer traffic headed Complete Kitchen & Bath Remodeling shopping mall was in the making. By Oc- speakers, asphalt and prairie just for the CR Mall Evergreen Park resi- Stock and Custom Cabinetry tober 1981. over 100 retailers opened months before The single-level shop- dents received special coupon booklets OVER 25 YEARS EXPERIENCE their doors to Chicago Ridge residents ping center built of brick, exposed steel for the Evergreen Park stores. and their neighbors. and glass, designed by Charles Kober With time, their fears proved valid DESIGNING WITH YOUR THOUGHTS IN MIND Before the mall, village businesses Associates of Los Angeles would display The Chicago Ridge Mall continues to Kitchens, Baths & Other Rooms kicked in about $278,000 in sales tax. its magnificence grow and it has since created the off- Corian - Laminate - Tile Countertops Now. after the malls share is tallied, the Deceived by the stark, compassion- spring of the Chicago Ridge Commons, Jenn-Air - KitchenAid - Whirlpool - Sub Zero figure has jumped to about $1.5 million less brick exterior, shoppers were awed just south on Ridgeland. Another theater & other quality kitchen and bath products The increased income paved the way for by the interior. The waterfall, the complex, other major anchors like T.I LICENSED & INSURED village streets to be resurfaced and new gazebo, and the eatery areas similar to a Maxx and Marshall's joined the success- street lights to be added with a minimal cafe complete with trees, all reflected ful ventures of investors in the village of VISIT OUR SHOWROOM Chicago Ridge cost to taxpayers. The village picked up spaciousness reminiscent of European 10527 S. Ridgeland 70 percent while residents were billed 30 railroad stations and covered markets. Before the malls, downtown Chicago percent. The center court itself is 90 feet wide and Ridge businesses consisted of one hard- CHICAGO RIDGE Also. Chicago Ridge is one of the few 120 feet long with a clerestory that vaults ware store, a gas station and a grocery M-F9-5 SAT1O1 villages whose services have increased 50 feet. store They are gone, like the days when (like the doubling of the police force) Evergreen Park Plaza executives you could get a candy bar for a nickel and while the village tax rate has decreased worried that their customers would be a movie for 10 cents. 636-1659 For the last seven years, residents pay only $12 to $13 of every $100 of the prop- •••••••••« erty tax bill to the village. In the spring of 1987 new mall own- ers, an institutional investment arm .1MB Realty Corp enhanced the temptation for shoppers by bringing in Happy 75th Anniversary popular stores like Carson Pirie Scott & Co. and Madigans to complement the already present attraction of nation- wide stores like Sears & Roebuck Walgreens and Jean Nicole. Serving You The idea to add two more anchor stores. Carson's with 125.000 square feet and Madigans with 80.000 square feet. mav have been an idea JMB riwiH"-1 Since 1950 ...^.i oi area resi- Ss in March 1980. The original developer. Ken Tucker & Associates, conducted market surveys to determine For shopping habits and preferences. What was learned besides the obvious fact that • Paint • Housewares people want "pleasant and secure" places to shop with well lit parking lots. • Hardware • Electrical Supplies the Chicago Ridge and Oak Lawn shop- •Tools • Plumbing per's interests lean towards "low priced •Giftware •Sporting Goods merchandise right up to higher priced • Newspapers •Automotive Supplies goods offered by ... Carson Pirie Scott." • Lawn & Garden Supplies Tucker's success formula for real estate investments was a result of his working in the business for 25 years. In Congratulations 1985 he even changed his name to en- compass the range of areas his firm's interests included. Ken Tucker and Chicago Ridge for Associates was changed to The Tucker THANKS Companies. Tucker explained at the time that "it best conveys who we are and how we operate today." NEIGHBOR! 75 Years Tucker oversees diverse groups of commercial properties. In Tuckers years in the developing, including retail of Progress leasing and property management busi- "It's Worth A Trip To Worth Hardware" ness, his credentials include more than 4.5 million square feet of commercial space. 15 retail environments, four office buildings and four industrial WORTH HARDWARE parks. Chicago Ridge Park District In June 1980 Chicago Ridge Mayor Eugene Siegel was on the construction site to see the first steel beam raised. The grand opening was set for Aug. 4 the Board of Commissioners following year. But a strike on July 20 by Local 150 of the International Union of Ron Pratl Operating Engineers, having labor President management disputes in the Chicago- Kevin King Vice President land area, delayed the gala affair by two months. Only the already completed 7103 W. 111th St. Kath Schweiger Treasurer 448-1700 Ed Stortz Commissioner William Smith Hours: Weekdays9to7 Sat9to5 Sun.l0to2 Commissioner

Chicago Ridge 75th Anniversary The Reporter - Thursday, July 13, 1989 - Page 12 -

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