Two Evergreen Park police officers were recognized for “Outstanding Performance of Duty” for apprehending an armed suspect during a traffic stop this month.
Officer Karl Koch and Tactical Officer Benjamin Vos were both honored during an Evergreen Park Village Board meeting Tuesday night. Police Chief Michael Saunders requested police commendations for the officers and Mayor Kelly Burke and the board agreed.
Koch initiated a traffic stop on a speeding vehicle on Feb. 8 at 95th and Lawndale. Vos then arrived to assist. Upon running a check on the driver, Koch received an Officer Safety Alert, according to reports.
The information provided in the alert indicated that the driver had a criminal history and was subsequently charged with multiple offenses, including a Class 3 felony, police said.
The officers confiscated a firearm that was located under the seat. He did not have a right to carry permit or a FOID card, according to police.
“We want to thank the officers for all of their quick work, hard work,” Burke said. “We thank them for keeping us safe.”
New business
Ramon Martinez, who was a partner in the now closed Unidad restaurant, will be opening Mi Amor at that same location, 3339 W. 99th St. The new restaurant will be similar to Unidad — which closed on Dec. 31 — where Mexican and Latin American food will be served.
“I’m very happy to be here,” Martinez said. “I’ve been in the restaurant business for 25 years. We had family working there and they will work at Mi Amor.”
Martinez said that along with Mexican and Latin American dishes, the restaurant will feature Spanish food. Unidad closed because the primary owner moved to Florida, Martinez said.
Mi Amor will open in March but a grand opening is planned for mid-April, Martinez added.
“It’s all family,” Martinez said. “They all worked in the kitchen (at Unidad). We are happy and very excited to be here.”
Trustees Carol Kyle and Mark Marzullo were not able to attend the meeting. But the rest of the board approved Mi Amor by a 4-0 vote.
The board also unanimously approved a business certificate for Evergreen Smiles Dental, 9541 S. Pulaski.
Snow job
Trustee Mark Phelan thanked Gavin Yeaman, director of the public works department, for keeping the streets clear of snow and making them safe to drive during the recent deep freeze.
“We want to compliment public works and Gavin for keeping the streets clear,” Phelan said.
Burke also acknowledged the efforts of the public works department.
“We want to thank them for all their hard work.” Burke said. “We also want to thank them for their quick work repairing a water main break.”
In other news
Free tax preparation for seniors and disabled adults will be provided by appointment only at the Office of Citizen Services, 3450 W. 97th St. Appointments can be arranged by calling 708-422-8776 or go to the tax-aide site locator at AARP.org.
A sip and sample fundraiser will be offered from 6 to 9:30 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 22, at the Evergreen Park Library, 9400 S. Troy Ave. To purchase tickets or for more information, call 708-422-8522.
The Citizens of Utility Board and the Village of Evergreen Park is hosting a utility bill clinic from 5 to 7 p.m. Monday, Feb. 24, at Village Hall, 9418 S. Kedzie Ave. To register, email skerwin@evpkadm.org.
The fourth annual Capuano Cup, a 4-on-4 adult 21 and over hockey tournament, will take place Saturday, March 1, and Sunday, March 2, at the Daniel C. Capuano Ice Rink, 8900 S. Kedzie Ave. For booking information, contact Mike Huguelet at 708-703-1322 or email SRBossmanISU@yahoo.com.
All profits and donations will benefit the Ende, Menzer, Walsh & Quinn Retirees, Widows and Children’s Fund. More information can be obtained by calling the Evergreen Park Recreation Department, 708-229-3373.
“This is a really great event,” Burke said. “They raise money for a great cause.”
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