Concepts by Michelle

The Coyotes Are Calling

Posted on January 28, 2020 by Michelle M. Ryan / 4 Comments

When I first saw the news reports of the recent coyote attacks in Chicago, I was hoping it would just be a couple of daily reports and something else would knock them off the headline, but no. It was escalating, which resulted in lots of people scrambling, media all over the place, police swarming the area, even a lockdown at a nearby school. We got to see a few coyotes, especially the one with an obvious paw injury who clearly needed medical attention.

I hoped all the commotion would cause the others to run for their lives.

It started when a dog was attacked, then another, then a child, and shortly thereafter, a man claimed to have been bitten by a coyote on the fanny (which was not confirmed by authorities as of this writing). Once the child was attacked, there was an all-out coyote hunt. The details were sketchy. The reports seemed like a boy and his mom were walking down a street when a coyote just came up and attacked. The only hint that something was amiss was they were near a nature museum.

The Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum has a woodsy trail; however, it is not clear if it was the same trail. According to the Chicago Sun-Times, the boy ran up a hill BY HIMSELF. He didn’t go far, but a coyote was nearby and they came “face to face.” That’s all it takes. That significant piece of information was not reported enough on TV news. (This is a headline ploy that media uses to get attention.) A coyote could take a kid down, however, if the adult was right there, the OBJECT of desire would have appeared more challenging to the coyote. Nature centers and forest preserves need to post signs that say something like, “You are a guest on property PRESERVED for wildlife. Respect it.”

Forest preserves have signs that warn, “Dogs Must Be Leashed,” however, many people don’t adhere. An unforgettable example was when a friend and I started a walk down a forest preserve trail. We soon spotted a coyote. It was awesome until we saw a young lady with a dog a short distance away. She reached down, took off the leash, and the dog took off like a shot. As soon as we caught up, I told her we just saw a coyote. She smilingly said, “Oh, I’m not afraid of them.” I said, “It’s not you the coyote wants, it’s your dog.” I hope that lady remembers this incident as I do, when we see such news stories.

The other innocents of this week-long ordeal were the dogs who were attacked. The first owner never had her dog on a leash. According to CBS news, she just let it out “to do its business,” when the coyote spotted it. The owner was surprisingly ignorant that coyotes lived in the city.

There are still many people out there that do not understand what happens when open land is developed for human occupancy. We understand recreational paths cutting through forest preserves but what about land that is not preserved? When we drive through an area like Palos with beautiful forestry on both sides, it’s the same principle. The highway is a cutting path. Urban sprawl, whether it’s housing or a shopping mall, forces wildlife into areas that used to be theirs. Coyotes are beneficial to the environment and provide a natural service of rat control in cities.

The other dog was attacked as the owner was ABOUT to put a leash on outside but a coyote reached the dog first. The owner should have had the leash on BEFORE going out. This reminds me of an incident with a neighbor. She was walking her dog on a long rope in one hand and a cell phone in another, yacking away. She was wearing sandals. What’s wrong with this picture? The dog had a shaved back with a big bandage on its back. She told me her dog was attacked by a Rottweiler. I gave her some safety tips but she always continued with the improper leash and shoes, and phone distraction.

Throughout the coyote-hunt, I only saw one humorous moment. A man was jogging along a path near the Shedd Aquarium with a coyote following a short distance behind. The police tried to get the man to stop and even used a loudspeaker but the man didn’t hear anything. Guess why? Yes, he was wearing ear buds and in a world of his own. Here is a partial transcript of the police dispatch exchange from CBS news (reported by Charlie De Mar):

Squad: “He’s actually going eastbound. We tried to alert the jogger with the loudspeaker but he has his earbuds on and he can’t hear us.”

Dispatch: “Coyote probably thinks he’s running with him, alright, we’re notifying animal control.”

Squad: “Do you have a description on this coyote?”

Dispatch: “Furry. Probably tan and black. Sharp teeth.”

Squad: “He’s chasing, he is chasing somebody, be advised he is jogging with them.

When the coyotes are calling, we need to listen! They are telling us something. Dog owners are parents of their dog. Without a leash, you have no control over the situation. This is why it’s against the law to have an unleashed dog in public. It should be enforced like child endangerment or people who violate railroad crossings. (Another example of how municipalities could bring in money by enforcing laws already on the books.)

Common sense includes the following:

Be aware of your surroundings at all times. Expect the unexpected. Have this mindset before going out for a walk. Don’t wear headsets and stay off the phone!

Use a proper leash. The longer the leash, the less control you have.

Wear proper attire.

Carry a deterrent spray, such as SprayShield Citronella, which is as effective as pepper spray or Mace, except without the harmful side effects. Carry a “bite stick” (something that will deliver a forceful strike) that is an appropriate length to match your size.

Avoid running if possible, during a coyote encounter or when other dogs are loose. It triggers the chase instinct. Show you are the dominant force.

For further information about living with coyotes, check out this link from Willowbrook Wildlife Center: https://www.dupageforest.org/plants-wildlife/wildlife/living-with-wildlife/coyotes

This article was published in the January 2020 issue of the Blue Island Forum Newspaper.

Blue Island Chronicles

Residents Weed Through Cannabis Concerns

Posted on January 18, 2020 by Michelle M. Ryan / 0 Comment

First, thank you to the residents who supported me for my last (and first) city council coverage (11-12-19). My goal was to maintain your interest and it went beyond what I expected.

January 14, 2020

Present were Mayor Domingo Vargas, Clerk Randy Heuser, Attorney Kelly Burke, and Aldermen Annette Alexander, Fred Bilotto, Raeann Cantelo-Zylman, Candace Carr, Kevin Donahue, Bill Fahrenwald, Tom Hawley, Johnny Hill, James Klinker, and Mike Mech. Treasurer Carmine Bilotto, and Aldermen William Cazares, Dexter Johnson, Nancy Rita, and Alecia Slattery were absent.

Public comments are often the most interesting and important segment of a city council meeting. Remember the city council members have a position, a microphone, and even their own name plate. The most discussed topic on resident’s minds this evening was the legalization of recreational marijuana. Three residents took the stand regarding this issue.

Former alderman, Nancy Thompson, from the 5^th Ward, has a concern about the legalization of marijuana. She reminded us that Illinois has the reputation of being one of the most corrupt states in the Union and a lot of our leaders went to jail for corruption. She still has the stench of what Bread & Bottle Liquors (2213 119^th St.) left behind. She said our town was assaulted for 25 – 30 years with alcohol, which led to prostitution and selling liquor to minors. She pleaded with the council, especially the Community Development Committee, not to bring any dispensaries into the 5^th ward because she is still suffering from the Bread & Bottle.

Kimberly Byrne, who just moved to Blue Island in September, 2018, from San Francisco, wants the city to have an impact statement to educate the public about the many issues involving the legalization of marijuana. She said the city needs to review other state’s mistakes, and have proper police and fire department training. Since it’s not just smoking (as in cigarettes), but a narcotic, ordinances need to be updated – parking in front of dispensaries, loitering, signage in stores, near daycare centers, etc. She reminded us of the stigma involved if someone in a position, such as clergy, is seen going into a dispensary.

Carol DiPace Greene agreed that an impact statement was needed and Blue Island has not taken on the necessary steps to prepare us for recreational use of marijuana. She reminded us how our small businesses already have parking problems and doesn’t feel that dispensaries should be anywhere along Western avenue, our business district. Suggestions included the outskirts of the city, such as the old Christy Webber landscaping business (11900 Division St.), away from the businesses, children, and people. However, DiPace Greene reiterated, “not anywhere near the former Bread & Bottle,” which resulted in chuckling and clapping. She emphasized that Blue Island is self-insured and the payouts keep rolling out for lawsuits, and we don’t need to incur any more lawsuits. “If we’re gonna do this, we’ve got to do it right,” she said.

While writing this, I was alerted to a 3% tax on marijuana that passed, which would bring total taxes to 41% by this summer. The Sun-Times reported, “The tax is needed to pay for potential increases in health and policing costs due to legalization.” My first thought was, why not just find a local drug dealer and pay cash as usual? After all, we’re allowed to have it in our possession, right? This is why many think it will lead to more street dealing.

This reminds me of how money for the lottery was supposed to go to education. WBEZ radio reported, “The lottery legislation was part of a compromise package whose main purpose was to provide additional funding to help out the Chicago Transit Authority.” Thompson is literally right on the money because it somehow never really goes where it is supposed to go.

Another concern is how we’ve always had enough issues with drivers under the influence of alcohol. Then we see signs stating, “Don’t Text and Drive.” And now this. Pharmacies regulating medical marijuana is more reassuring; however, it seems that we will be making up procedure as we go along (hence, Byrne and DiPace Greene’s emphasis on an impact statement). Others tell me it doesn’t matter, it’s all about the money.

In a more somber tone, the second most talked about subject this evening was our veterans. Nancy Thompson initially thanked Mayor Vargas for participating in an assembly honoring 23-year-old, Henry Mayfield, Jr., who was killed January 5, 2020, in Kenya.

Mayor Vargas again expressed gratitude to our veterans for their service reminding us all that their sacrifice allows us to have such meetings. He requested that we stand for a moment of silence.

Later, Alderman Hill announced that he attended the service on January 14, in Hazel Crest honoring fallen soldier, Mayfield. He felt it was his duty, as his brother served 30 years as a marine, rose to the rank of Sergeant Major, and went through Viet Nam and Desert Storm.

In closing, this is only the second city council meeting I have attended and both times, veterans were acknowledged. Everyone is welcome to express themselves in front of a polite and patient audience.

This article was originally published in the January issue of the Blue Island Forum Newspaper.

Blue Island Chronicles

First Lutheran Church

Posted on December 22, 2019 by Michelle M. Ryan / 0 Comment

Several years ago, our editor (now emeritus), Sandy May, proudly stated that the First Lutheran Church was our oldest loyal church supporter. It was not simply a matter-of-fact statement. I could hear the humility in her voice. I never thought that years later, I would be inside the beautiful church (at 2519 Grove St.) interviewing Pastor Brittany Baurle Kooi.

Upon first contacting Pastor Baurle Kooi (pronounced Barley Koy) for this column, she stated that they are not really a business, but a non-profit. However, a non-profit organization is still a legal entity. It is not a surprise that churches have been the Forum’s number one supporters. Churches are an integral part of a community where people seek sanctuary.

The First Lutheran Church was officially founded in Blue Island in 1863 after a year of Bible studies by worshippers. I always associated Lutherans with German heritage and wondered how this population was today at First Lutheran compared to the past. Pastor Baurle Kooi said, “A good chunk are of German descent but there are lots of American mutts. Its peak population was in the 70s and 80s, and there are currently about 70 members, many still living in Blue Island.”

Front Entryway, 2519 Grove St. (Photo by Michelle M. Ryan)

I didn’t know much about the Lutheran faith and thought it was synonymous with Protestant. Baurle Kooi said, “No. ‘Protestant’ is a BIG term that includes Lutheran, Methodist, Pentecostal, non-denominational …” And what about the differences between Lutherans and Catholics? She said, “A big issue is how the hierarchy is structured – pastors, priests, who reports to who.”

Another major difference between the two religions was the role of a priest in the Catholic religion. Baurle Kooi explained, “Priests stand in between people and God. That’s why you have to go to Confession to receive forgiveness through the priest. In the Lutheran church, there is no intermediary beside Jesus. It is between you and God. If you ask for forgiveness, God forgives.”

Pastor Brittany Baurle Kooi (Photo by Michelle M. Ryan)

There are theology differences as well. Based on Baurle Kooi’s first name, “Brittany” , we can tell that she is female. And if that isn’t enough, she is actually pregnant. (She’s married.) “Being a female pastor and pregnant, would not be allowed in the Catholic church,” she said. She is not the first female pastor at First Lutheran. Two other women included an interim pastor for three years and an associate pastor.

I know my parents would have been surprised by this and queried if parishioners were apprehensive or welcoming when she first started there earlier this year. She said, “No, they were past that, but some were surprised when I stand up because I’m now showing. There is an understanding of Life, and it’s good. God calls people of all stages to lead. In Catholic pastoral leadership, Catholics would have to give up family life while Lutherans can be married with kids.”

We began delving into our family backgrounds. My mom was a German/Irish Protestant. My dad was an Irish Catholic. She decided to convert and had to attend classes for weeks and went through a ritual to convert. I didn’t understand what all the ritual was about and asked if this process still goes on today. Baurle Kooi said, “Yes, but it depends on the church. Some have very formal guidelines with membership classes. It depends also on whether you have a history with the church.” With First Lutheran, if it’s someone she doesn’t know who suddenly wants to join the church she would say, “Let’s talk about what it means to be a Lutheran. It’s not an interview, but a discussion. Talk about your journey.”

On the same note, I reiterated what a philosophy teacher told my class about how we cannot just simply choose or join a religion. He was adamant that we are born into our religion. He did say it was possible to convert but you have to be serious where it’s a life-long commitment. Baurle Kooi stated that, “It comes down to Truth. You may go places you might not expect and you’re not just born into something. You may marry into a religion.”

The million-dollar-question about “The Calling” seems more prevalent with ministry. Baurle Kooi grew up the western suburb of Glen Ellyn. She did not grow up in ministry. Her family has a corporate-management background. Her mother is Catholic, her father is Lutheran and she is only a quarter German.

Before going into ministry, she was teaching English at an alternative high school. A science teacher died in the middle of a school day who had just turned 40-years-old. Baurle Kooi took over her homeroom and helped the students through the grieving process. A few months into studying for her master’s degree, which she thought would just bump her up the educational ladder, she realized she really loved what she was doing with helping her students. At 24-years-old, it was clear that she was on the right path. Interestingly, another female pastor who was a good friend recommended that she go into ministry years before.

I was curious about whether a pastor is assigned to a church or do they have a choice? Baurle Kooi explained that each denomination does it differently. Catholic and Methodist pastors can be sent somewhere and the congregation has to deal with it. “The ELCA (Evangelical Lutheran Church in America) allows a pastor to choose a region. Based on openings available, you must apply for it with an extensive resume, other paper work, and a round of interviews. You then have to preach a sermon for them. There is another round of interviews, a sermon is preached at the church for parishioners, there’s a meet-and-greet afterward, and they vote in a few weeks. The church has to want you.” It’s a two-to-three-month process and Baurle Kooi was chosen over two other candidates.

Stained Glass behind Altar (Photo by Michelle M. Ryan)

I asked the pastor what she especially likes about First Lutheran Church and what she would like for its future? Without hesitation, she stated, “Its tenacity and stubbornness. A real commitment.” With her teaching background, the church is like her classroom. She loves to deal with mental health issues and says there is a huge need for this. She would love to have her parish “explore more of what it means to be a Christian. We should not just worship God for an hour on Sunday. It’s a lifestyle. We need to worship God in everything, every day. A deeper living faith is needed − living moments throughout the day. We need to understand that God is always at work.”

On that note, the closing of MetroSouth Hospital came up. Baurle Kooi said, “This was awful. The way Quorum went about this was not right. Clearly, it’s profit over people. It shows how healthcare in this nation works and how it doesn’t work. It’s a for-profit system. People came together from all over attending meetings and rallies, which didn’t work. It makes us question God, ‘Why did you let this happen? Where are you in this? Do you see us?’ We need to see how this will work for our good.”

Balcony (Stained Glass is opposite of first photo of entrance)
(Photo by Michelle M. Ryan)

First Lutheran Church has a regular service at 10:00 a.m. Sunday. (Baurle Kooi and First Lutheran Church were part of a special Service of Closure for MetroSouth Hospital on October 28, along with seven other churches from Blue Island, two from Robbins, and one from Alsip and Midlothian.)

This article originally appeared in the October/2019 issue of the Blue Island Forum Newspaper and has been updated.

Blue Island Chronicles

Legal Battle Dominates City Council

Posted on December 21, 2019 by Michelle M. Ryan / 0 Comment

In early November, I was asked to cover the Forum’s City Council column for Lynne Ingersoll. I cannot compare to the detail she writes regarding all the committees, so please bear with me. I will focus on highlights that I think will be informative for the community from the November 12th meeting.

Present were Mayor Domingo Vargas, Clerk Randy Heuser, Treasurer Carmine Bilotto, Attorney Cary Horvath, and Aldermen Annette Alexander, Fred Bilotto, Raeann Cantelo-Zylman, Candace Carr, William Cazares, Kevin Donahue, Bill Fahrenwald, Tom Hawley, Johnny Hill, Dexter Johnson, James Klinker, Mike Mech, and Nancy Rita. Alecia Slattery was absent.

First, Mayor Vargas acknowledged Veteran’s Day because if not for the sacrifices made by them, none of us would be able to express our rights and have such a meeting as city council.

Early on, it seemed there was a possible setup of a snare when Ald. Donahue wanted to ensure that council rules be followed to a tee. City Attorney Horvath repeated this to be clear, “to a tee.” His tone was concerning and I thought this could come back to bite Donahue. It was like being mirandized – “Anything you say can and will be used against you …”

Ald. Fahrenwald requested an update on MetroSouth Hospital. Horvath explained a recent conversation between him, a rep from Quorum and MetroSouth’s CEO John Walsh, “The original proposed agreement was time-sensitive, which included a $2 million payment from Quorum and possible future control of the hospital by Blue Island, was completely off the table now. While Quorum still wants to engage with Blue Island for cooperation purposes … hands-on participation will not materialize because this council chose not to act.”

Fahrenwald was clearly miffed and stated, “The city council dithered away $2 million. Nice going. Plus, we have no control over the property.”

Donahue brought up Resolution 2019-033 (an independent investigation for the purchase of two Chevy Tahoes that Mayor Vargas was involved with last year and vetoed a previous attempt for said investigation). Vargas interjected that before he (Donahue) goes any further, he needs to hear from the city attorney.

Horvath slowly and methodically stated, “The matter according to city council rules, case law and the Open Meetings Act, which you placed on the agenda is not properly placed on the agenda and is in violation of the Open Meetings Act because it does not inform the public that you want to reconsider the resolution and the intention to move to override the decision of the mayor to veto the resolution.”

Donahue responded that he did indeed send it in writing and made a motion to approve. Ald. Bilotto seconded it while Horvath said it was out of order. Donahue then made a motion to override the chair, Bilotto seconded it and was again told it was out of order.

Horvath said, “In accordance with these rules the motion should be reduced in writing and case law states that parliamentary rules, the proper acts need to be taken … it was not a proper subject for a legislative council to decide.”

Donahue stated this is business of the city council, not the city attorney and made a motion to override the rule of the chair. Horvath rehashed that it was out of order, needs to be in writing, it’s an attempt to avoid the rules and remember, “the rules were to be followed to a tee.” Donahue made a motion to suspend the rules, seconded by Bilotto. It was deemed out of order for not following rules. Bilotto made a motion to silence the attorney on the chair, seconded by Ald. Rita.

Fahrenwald wanted to move the meeting along, save the city money, and interjected. “This is not important enough and it’s a waste of time having two attorneys billing us over this nonsense. We just learned that the city decided to spend NO time taking a $2 million offer with no strings attached and would have given us six months to research and review the hospital with an option to purchase the property with another $3 million. We passed up potentially $5 million and we’re arguing over this? It will result in nothing new. This is political nonsense, this is vendetta against vendetta, lawyers against lawyers, spending money the city doesn’t have. I’m ashamed to be here.”

Rita respectfully disagreed stating this was immoral and ethically wrong to purchase Tahoes without anyone knowing and getting a city discount. She asked, “Can you imagine if I did that, with my name? Are you kidding? The whole city council would be in an uproar!”

Vargas wanted to “make it clear that no city money was used.” Vargas said at least four times, “I’ve got all night.” I wondered if he packed a sleep-over kit ahead of time. He let the three aldermen know that he was disgusted with them. “This investigation has been handled by the Cook County State’s Attorney and FBI for a year and four months. So, if you want spend another $15,000 for the same results … it’s not your money, it’s the taxpayers,” he said.

We’ve heard of political footballs but this would best be described as a political volleyball because it was getting passed back and forth between multiple players facing each other. Instead of a net, imagine a wall of stone that literally resulted in stonewalling. There were so many motions getting tossed back and forth, motion sickness was a possibility.

Every time Donahue brought up a motion, Vargas said, “You’re out of order.” This stalled Clerk Heuser to take a vote. Heuser was stuck in the middle with Horvath and Vargas holding one arm firmly and three aldermen trying to pull him to their side like a tug-of-war. Horvath reminded Donahue of his intention to “follow the rules to a tee” several times.

Throughout the tournament, Aldermen Johnson and Alexander looked downward with each folding their hands as if in prayer. Longtime community activist, Carol DiPace-Greene shouted, “WHERE’S THE POPCORN?!” I knew I was going to miss the beginning of my beloved NCIS New Orleans at 9:00.

Attorney Matt Ingersoll from Montana & Welch, LLC, representing the city council, approached the podium THREE TIMES to read rules from the Open Meetings Act. “With respect to the Open Meetings Act, you are entitled to suspend rules, the topic needs to appear on the agenda and the action needs to be germane to the topic.” He also became part of the game as he admitted he was repeating what he said before. The aldermen involved were lacking in legal skills, which Horvath and Vargas used as their trump card, hence the presence of Ingersoll.

It seemed that Donahue may have struck the stone wall too many times or maybe he was trying to kill with kindness when he stated to Horvath – “ I understand your advice, you’re a good attorney, for what it seems, I do like you, I think you’re a really good person, I really do. I’m not just trying to butter you up.” Horvath smiled. There were some chuckles. Rita seconded it with “And we really like your tie.” It added some much-needed comic relief. However, it wasn’t long before they were back to tossing the volleyball.

Bilotto may have also suffered a blow to the head from the stone wall when he was tripping over his exact words for Horvath. “Can a chair of a city, mayor, alderman, be overruled by any scenario and by what scenario can they be overruled?” He was trying a different approach but lacked the proper tools. At least a hammer was needed and the closest resemblance was the gavel that Vargas had, which was pounded a few times throughout.

However, Bilotto’s approach was working as he chipped away − “I’m asking the clerk to take a roll call to overrule the chair.” Horvath said, “There’s nothing to vote on.” Bilotto said, “That’s not what I’m asking. You keep giving your advice, which I respect but it is our meeting. It’s a state statute that the clerk is charged with taking a roll call. I was a clerk myself for four years and Clerk Heuser is an effective clerk and knows he has to take roll call.” Heuser indeed knew because he kept turning to Horvath who kept stating, it was out of order.

Stones were loosening and falling out of the stone wall as Horvath turned to Vargas and they quietly discussed. Heuser finally announced the motion to override the chair by Bilotto, seconded by Rita. Donahue moved to his original motion to override the mayor’s veto. Heuser called it as well, with both motions passing by a 10-to-3 vote. Fahrenwald, Hawley, and Johnson dissented. The stone wall crumbled.

The tournament lasted approximately 40 MINUTES. It has clearly set the stage for the playoffs in the coming year to prepare for the 2021 election.

This article was published in the December 2019 issue of the Blue Island Forum newspaper.

Chime In

Blue Island Mayor to be Investigated

Posted on November 20, 2019 by Michelle M. Ryan / 5 Comments

#2 On November 12, 2019, after an extensive heated debate, the Blue Island City Council voted 10-to-3 in favor of investigating Mayor Domingo Vargas about the questionable purchase of two Chevy Tahoes last year. Vargas allegedly reimbursed the city; however, more questions remain.

Do you think the matter should be pursued despite the cost of the investigation? Why or why not?

Blue Island Chronicles

A Fateful Hour at MetroSouth

Posted on September 22, 2019 by Michelle M. Ryan / 0 Comment

Patient transported out of MetroSouth while workers cover up ER sign, shortly after 7:00 p.m., September 20, 2019. (Photo by William Theda Hughes)

On Friday evening, September 20^th, during the 7:00 hour, MetroSouth Hospital dropped another bomb. I just came from a business meeting with a friend and we were traveling down Gregory street. While approaching MetroSouth, I mentioned that after my dental visit, I drove past the back of the hospital on Tuesday, the 17^th, to check out the parking lots. There were still plenty of vehicles in the surrounding lots. You would never know anything was wrong, however, I heard from others who had recently been serviced by MetroSouth, that the inside was “noticeably void of people.”

My friend drove into the Emergency Room entrance into the lower parking lot. We just sat there for awhile looking at the ER entrance door and taking in what could be the final weeks. An ambulance pulled up in front of us. EMT workers went inside, wheeled a patient out on a gurney, and placed him in the ambulance. As we sat there, the feeling was dismal. I sure as hell was not expecting what was to come next.

There were three men with a ladder. One was holding it steady, another was tearing off large silver pieces of tape and handing it to the man on top who was covering the words “Emergency Room.” I said, “Oh no, look what they’re doing, they’re closing it down!” We watched in awe and my friend finally said, “This is MetroSouth’s last gasp of life.” It seemed like a rather oxymoronic statement considering an emergency room saves lives. Apparently, the owner, Quorum Health, likely has a Do Not Resuscitate order as well.

It was just stunning and upsetting to say the least. My friend walked up a little, whipped out his cell phone, and took pictures. Unbeknownst to us, as we were about to leave, we noticed that cones had been set up where we drove in. We think we were the last car to drive through followed by the last ambulance.

The whole time we were sitting there, I could feel the memory of bringing my mom to this emergency room one night. It was over ten years ago, back when St. Francis owned it. Oftentimes when someone needs to go to an emergency room, the person may be in some state of shock. The feeling can be surreal and that’s just what it felt like to observe this moment of history in the making.

I’ve been writing about this subject matter since July and felt like I was somewhat on auto-pilot. On one hand, you feel like you want to help change an outcome but you don’t have the power, yet, many feel that this is all pre-ordained and we are merely players on a stage. When I got home shortly after seeing this sad scene, I finally started crying. It wasn’t just about the connection with my mom, but I wondered about the patient on the gurney and where he was transported. How many others?

MetroSouth ER Department’s Entryway and Exit blocked,
September 21, 2019. (Photo by Michelle M. Ryan)

To ensure that this was not just a temporary situation of blocking the entrance, I drove around their block the next day. The cones were still there. Every single sign had the silver tape blocking the Emergency Department signage. Interesting how they started this shortly after the 7:00 hour the night before, just as darkness fell.

On Saturday afternoon, September 21^st, the village of Calumet Park sent out a message from their Code Red system announcing that “MetroSouth has cancelled all emergency room operations. They will no longer accept patients by ambulance or walk-ins. The Calumet Park Fire Department has prepared for this situation and will transfer you or your loved one to the closest appropriate hospital. In most cases, this would be Ingalls Hospital in Harvey. Please do not seek medical attention at MetroSouth because you will be turned away by hospital security.”

“Emergency Room” covered on all signs surrounding MetroSouth Hospital,
September 21, 2019 (Photo by Michelle M. Ryan)

Of all the departments of a hospital, the emergency room is literally the most critical. This was the one major department that everyone was trying and hoping to save. We can understand downsizing the hospital beds, eliminating other departments, etc., but the emergency room? Wow. I would’ve thought that would have been the last leg standing. Instead of falling from the top to the bottom like the Twin Towers, they have removed the foundation. Meanwhile, the legal battle continues.

Blue Island Chronicles/Calumet Park Chronicles

MetroSouth Follow-up

Posted on August 24, 2019 by Michelle M. Ryan / 2 Comments

Calumet Park Mayor Ronald Denson & State Rep. Bob Rita address residents about MetroSouth.

On July 23^rd, Calumet Park Mayor Ronald Denson hosted a meeting for the public about the impending closure of Blue Island’s MetroSouth hospital. The crowd gathered outside the village hall at 124^th & Throop street, with Throop street closed down. Mayor Denson asked how many people here have used MetroSouth’s services. Many hands went up including mine. He spoke of the consequences for residents with the bottom line that people will die by not getting to the hospital soon enough.

There was only one comical moment when State Rep. Robert Rita showed up late and announced that he couldn’t find a parking space. The chuckles broke up the tension and concern that everyone felt, but things quickly got serious again. Rep. Rita said he and other officials were given very little notice about the closing before the news went public. He said it was unacceptable, especially since MetroSouth officials made promises about investing in the community. The owner, Quorum Health, is from Tennessee and Rita said they have no idea how this will affect our community.

Cal-Comm director, Gerard Corrigan, spoke of how much crucial equipment was set up on top of the hospital. Fire Chief, James Ross, stunned the audience with a report of ambulance transportation times:

From Calumet Park to MetroSouth – 2 minutes

Ingalls (Harvey) – 12 minutes

Roseland (Chicago) – 14 minutes

Little Company of Mary (Evergreen Park) – 16 minutes

Christ (Oak Lawn) – 20 minutes

Palos Community (Palos Heights) – 30 minutes

Mayor Denson wants to buy time by keeping the doors open long enough to exhaust every option. Rep. Rita invited everyone to attend the following day’s meeting at St. Benedict in Blue Island to share their own story of how they will be impacted of the closure.

No one wants a hospital to close. We’re all holding out hope that someone will buy the hospital despite a pending vote on September 17^th to close. However, any prospective owner will inherit the same issues that MetroSouth inherited from St. Francis Hospital. The Daily Southtown reported (August 21) that MetroSouth officials will need to accelerate their plan to close the hospital by September 30^th instead of the previous date of November 1^st. The clock is ticking faster and louder.

Comments are open to this article (and previous one in ChicagoLand) and one opinion poll (see Chime In). We should keep discussing this because a new buyer will need to clean up the mess and that includes listening to the communities it serves. Below is a sign that Cal-Parkers are sharing to sign a petition at the village website.

Blue Island Chronicles

MetroSouth Alternatives (?)

Posted on July 31, 2019 by Michelle M. Ryan / 4 Comments

A few years ago, I went to the Oak Forest hospital for a free TB test as a requirement to work in home healthcare. Upon telling the officer at the gate why I was there, I was directed where to park and to enter a door on the north side. Once inside, there was an extremely long corridor and NOBODY was in sight. The corridor was like two blocks long.

As I quietly walked along, I passed one nurse’s station after another on the left and empty stretchers and wheelchairs on the right. There was complete silence. (If these walls could talk.) The eeriest part were the clocks on the wall. Every clock at each nurse’s station was stopped at a different time. 11 minutes after 2:00 … 40 minutes after 6:00 … It would never be known if the clocks stopped in the day or night. Each clock likely continued ticking after the employees and patients moved out and were pronounced dead in their own time.

Finally, I heard the ding of an elevator. I thought of ducking behind a partitioned wall but just stood there looking at the elevator. A lady in burgundy scrubs stepped out and was startled to see me. I told her this place would be a great scene for a horror movie. She agreed and said it was very spooky working there and directed me where to go. It was such a shame that a place that once served a purpose and gleamed with life, now sat empty. Such is the threat with MetroSouth.

The Daily Southtown reported last month that MetroSouth operators said “that years of decreasing patient volumes, increasing market saturation, reduced insurance reimbursement and ongoing operational losses” contributed to the hospital’s decision to likely close unless finding a buyer. The concern here is that officials have known for a couple years of the peril and have spoken to “nearly 40 healthcare organizations but none were willing to operate MetroSouth as a full-service community hospital (hold that thought).” By the time the public gets notice, everyone is in a scrambling state of mayday.

The latter two cited reasons I understand firsthand from working in healthcare. First, regarding “reduced insurance reimbursement,” Medicare and Medicaid allow patients to get care upfront (services and drugs), but it takes a long time for the service provider to get reimbursed from the government. Meanwhile, the service provider has to pay monthly expenses and it’s like trying to fill a bucket with a hole in it. The government may also only reimburse a lesser amount than the actual cost of the service.

Second, “ongoing operational losses,” is something that is more likely in a hospital because of the 24/7 operation. It’s harder to run a tight ship with hundreds of employees. Years ago, I worked at MetroSouth for a short period of time and found some practices disturbing. We’re talking thousands of dollars wasted on a monthly basis. These practices would obviously catch up with them. I was not there long enough to request help. Proper training and all three shifts working closer together could have helped reduce this loss.

Let’s think about why there are “decreased patients.” Nowadays, there is a lot of emphasis on preventative care, especially with all the cancer screenings, etc. Before drug stores offered flu shots, I had to make an appointment with a doctor. Advances in equipment have allowed many outpatient services. Urgent care facilities have lightened the load of emergency rooms. Maintenance medicine has kept people out of hospitals and increased lifespan. Has all this contributed to hospitals possibly becoming obsolete? Instead of being a double-edged sword, maybe we should go with the natural flow. We may need to consider repurposing the hospital instead of just closing it, which would leave an all-or-nothing result.

Apparently, there is a problem with MetroSouth having 314 beds that they can’t fill. Well, do we want an epidemic just to fill the beds with sick people? Why can’t the number of hospital beds be downsized to accommodate the actual need? Instead of eliminating a full-service hospital, what does the hospital have that is still serving a purpose? The Daily Southtown reported that MetroSouth’s outpatient center is being diligently pursued.

Since patients are spending less time hospitalized and living longer, where will all of these aging folks live? A hospital offers a skeletal framework that can accommodate BOTH an independent living facility, as well as an assisted living one. Assisted living facilities need a medical staff (that is already there). Seniors are vulnerable to broken bones, joint replacements, etc., and often need physical therapy. A rehabilitation facility is already there. Ambulances make frequent trips to senior-living facilities, and again, medical staff is already there.

MetroSouth also has a built-in cafeteria, a fitness center, an outdoor garden/refuge space. Why can’t some sections be consolidated for certain purposes while renting out space for the growing senior population? According to Crowe LLP Healthcare, “If hospitals want to remain vital to their communities, they must change. Repurposing is always expensive. The question they have to ask themselves is can they afford not to (Modern Healthcare, 2015).” Remember, 40 healthcare organizations were unwilling to operate MetroSouth as a full-service community hospital. What about a partial-service one combined with something else? A training or educational facility is also a possibility especially with Moraine Valley nearby.

Hospitals closing is not just here in Illinois. In October, 2017, the Harvard Business Review reported that since the beginning of 2016, the financial performance of hospitals and health systems in the United States has significantly worsened. “The root cause is twofold: a mismatch between organizations’ strategies and actual market demand, and a lack of operational discipline.” Again, I’m thinking of the preventable waste that I witnessed.

Blue Island obviously stands to lose a lot here, but what about the surrounding communities? Calumet Park Mayor Ronald Denson said he was surprised by the lack of notice or engagement prior to the announcement, given area residents’ reliance on MetroSouth for a variety of health services and the critical role of MetroSouth in Calumet Park’s emergency management plans. “Although all impacts haven’t been defined, given the sudden notice, the closure would certainly affect fire and police department operations and require revisions of emergency management plans for area municipalities.”

Mayor Denson further stated that he has actively engaged with municipalities in the area that will be impacted by the closure, as well as elected officials representing the area, since the notice was received. “In particular, I have been in close contact with leadership for the municipalities served by the Cal-Comm 911 Center to discuss shared concerns and assess impacts of this sudden development.”

The Village of Calumet Park is hosting a press conference, Tuesday, July 23, 11:00 a.m., at the Village Hall (12409 S. Throop St.) for residents and officials of all communities affected by the abrupt closure of MetroSouth. All are encouraged to attend.

The above article was submitted to the FORUM on July 15, 2019, and published for their July issue.

Chime In

Patients Avoiding MetroSouth Hospital

Posted on July 31, 2019 by Michelle M. Ryan / 4 Comments

#1 In June, MetroSouth Hospital in Blue Island suddenly announced plans to close by the end of the year if a buyer isn’t found. The CEO stated in the Chicago Sun Times (07-25-19) that “More patients are choosing to leave the community for care and as a result, the hospital is losing millions of dollars a year.”

What experiences have you (or anyone you know) had that would attribute to not seeking care at MetroSouth? Do you have positive experiences to share or other comments?