Cook County 4-H Fair on Saturday

By Bob Bong

Did you know that Cook County has a county fair?

That’s right, the same kind of county fair we are all aware of with projects by members of the Cook County 4-H, a parade of clubs, and even a livestock judging.

The Cook County Fair was moved to Toyota Park in Bridgeview in 2014 and then it took a hit like so many other events from the COVID pandemic.

But’s it’s back this year and it has a new home at the Bridgeview Park District, 8100 Beloit Avenue.

The fair is open to the public Saturday, July 23, from about 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. The participants are there well before that setting up their exhibits and they stay around long after to take down said exhibits.

Winners from the various categories will move on to the State Fair next month in Springfield.

4-H is a national youth organization that teaches leadership, citizenship and life skills. While animals and agriculture are a big part of the program, there is much more including drones and robots.

Cook County 4-H is organized by University of Illinois Extension. For information, visit https://extension.illinois.edu/cook/4-h-youth-development.

Wolf Road bridge closing

The Illinois Department of Transportation announced that a project to replace the bridge carrying Wolf Road over Interstate 80, in Mokena and Orland Park, will require a full closure of Wolf Road, between 183^rd and 187^th streets beginning, weather permitting, Monday, July 25 through early December.

A posted detour will direct motorists to 191^st Street, LaGrange Road and 179^th Street. Motorists should also expect occasional overnight lane closures on Interstate 80 at the bridge during that time.

The $4.7 million project, which consists of replacing the existing bridge with a new wider structure, installing new storm sewers, along with resurfacing and landscaping, is anticipated to be completed in fall 2023.

Access to local residences and businesses will be maintained throughout construction.

Motorists can expect delays and should allow extra time for trips through this area. Drivers are urged to pay close attention to flaggers and signs in the work zones, obey the posted speed limits and be on the alert for workers and equipment.

Iversen’s Bakery closes in Blue Island

Longtime fans of Iversen’s Bakery in Blue Island were surprised last week when its owners suddenly announced that the annual closing for vacation on July 16 would actually be their last day in business.

The bakery on Western Avenue has been a landmark in Blue Island for more than six decades.

Their Facebook announcement also indicated that while the owners were retiring it might not be the end of Iversen’s Bakery.

“The Iversen’s thank their employees, Blue Island, and the entire Chicago area for 63+ years of support. We are excited to work with The Beggars Pizza Family to continue the tradition as much as possible. Stay tuned, the story continues … sequel coming soon.”

Calls to Beggars were not returned.

County board Oks tax incentives

The Cook County Board of Commissioners recently approved property tax incentives for businesses in Harvey and South Holland.

A class 8 incentive was approved for Harvey Real Estate Inc., 15325 Dixie Highway in Harvey, for a new Sunoco gas station and convenience store.

Another class 8 incentive was approved for Actuation Group Inc. to open at 16660 S. Canal St. in South Holland to modify, re-manufacture and test all sizes of gate, globe, control and safety relief valves.

If you see a new business in town or wonder what happened to an old favorite, drop me a line at bobbong@hotmail.com.