Thursday, March 31, 2011

Cook County not sure how to pay for OF Hospital reprieve

Excerpt from the SouthtownStar, March 22, 2011

By Jessica Tobacman


"A state board on Monday voted to allow Oak Forest Hospital to stay open for now, denying a request by Cook County to transform it into an outpatient center." (read more)

National Guard sergeant has thriving amateur singing career

Excerpt from the SouthtownStar, March 27, 2011

By Jessica Tobacman

"As a member of her grade school chorus, Army National Guard Staff Sgt. Jennifer Kohany had a role in the musical “Oliver.”

As her family sat in the audience, they realized how good her voice was." (read more)

MRI-safe pacemaker gets hearty welcome from Southlanders

Excerpt from the SouthtownStar, March 13, 2011

By Jessica Tobacman

"Roger Harpold was short of breath. He had dizzy spells and frequently felt fatigued.

The 75-year-old Orland Park resident’s heart rate was slowing, a monitor showed.

Harpold needed a pacemaker, which uses electrical pulses to regulate a heartbeat, Dr. Sean Tierney determined." (read more)

With the Arrival of Spring, Local Zoroastrians Celebrate a New Year

On Saturday, local Zoroastrians will celebrate a new year at their temple in Burr Ridge and in the streets of downtown Chicago.

Excerpt from Patch.com, March 26, 2011

By Jessica Tobacman

"For followers of Zoroastrianism, an ancient Persian faith based on the philosophies of personal responsibility and good conquering evil, spring marks the beginning of the Zoroastrian New Year." (read more)

"Green" Can Take on New Meaning for St. Patrick's Day


There are many ways to green your life while you continue to celebrate St. Paddy's Day.

Opinion--Excerpt from Patch.com, March 19, 2011

By Jessica Tobacman


"For enjoying St. Patrick’s Day in Burr Ridge, green is key, for clothes, cabbage and beer. Although the day itself occurred Thursday, March 17, local celebrations don’t have to stop. It is easy to find St. Patrick's Day-related activities this weekend. Also, you can revel in the holiday by making it an event that’s green—in more ways than one." (read more)

Burr Ridge Members of MECCA Speak Out in Support of Muslim Community Center

Residents hope that they will soon be able to begin construction of a Muslim worship center off 91st Street and Rte. 83.

Excerpt from Patch.com, March 14, 2011

By Jessica Tobacman


Update: Andrea Korovesis at DuPage County told Patch that "the Development Committee voted on MECCA's petition at [the Tuesday, March 15] meeting and approved it 4-1, with a list of conditions. The County Board will take up the item at its next meeting, which will be Tuesday, March 22."

A circle drive sits in front of an older house just west of Route 83 on 91st Street. If all goes well for the Muslim Educational Cultural Center of America (MECCA), this summer a new structure will begin to rise on the property—a Muslim Community Center." (read more)

Celebrate Spring with Floral Alternatives


Fruit bouquets and potted plants are green ways to celebrate spring.

Opinion--Excerpt from Patch.com, March 5, 2011

By Jessica Tobacman


"With patches of grass beginning to show as the snow recedes, I can’t help but think of spring and imagine that you may eagerly be anticipating it, too. Spring is approaching after a harsh winter which brought 20 inches of snow to Burr Ridge and the snowiest February on record. All of this white means that we may be even more grateful for spring than usual." (read more)

D180 Celebrates Black History Month



Anne M. Jeans Elementary School and Burr Ridge Middle School celebrate Black History Month with inspiring performances and activities.

Excerpt from Patch.com
, Feb. 25, 2011

By Jessica Tobacman


"Actor Will Smith’s words greeted visitors to the Anne M. Jeans Elementary School Website on Feb. 23: 'I don’t know what my calling is, but I want to be here for a bigger reason.'" (read more)

Green Ways to Celebrate President's Day

Take this Monday to explore new outdoor activities, or use low prices to purchase long-awaited items.

Opinion--Excerpt from Patch.com, Feb. 21, 2011

By Jessica Tobacman

"Monday, Feb. 21 is an opportunity to celebrate our country and our environment in unique ways." (read more)