Austin Weekly News 042722

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Fundraiser launched for family injured in West Side porch collapse

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FREE Vol. 36 No. 17

April 27, 2022

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Also serving Garfield Park

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Bitoy’s’ Sweet Treats thriving, page 2

City foundation to tackle housing on West Side The Chicago Community Trust to tackle systemic inequality and economic obstacles to affordable housing on West Side, other cities

By IGOR STUDENOV Staff Reporter

The Chicago Community Trust will be working with East Garfield Park and Humboldt Park community organizations to figure out ways to increase homeownership and preserve affordable housing in Black and Hispanic communities.

The initiative is part of the Connecting Capital and Community (C3) program organized by the Lincoln Institute of Land Policy’s Center for Community Investment and funded by JPMorgan Chase bank. Over the next three years, the program will work in several cities to tackle systemic inequality and economic obstacles to preserving, building and buying what the program page described as “safe and affordable homes.”

The Chicago Community Trust, one of Chicago area’s largest philanthropic foundations, will be spearheading the program in Chicago, with JPMorgan Chase providing $1.95 million in funding.

According to a joint press release issued by the Chicago Community Trust and the Center for Community Investment, the Community Trust will work with community organizations to develop several different strategies for addressing the program’s goals. Those stages will include figuring out ways to address the proliferation of vacant See HOUSING on page 3

ALEX ROGALS/Staff Photographer

Helena Wilson, left, and Edwin Wilson hold up a photo of their son, Edjuan “EJ” Wilson.

Parents, friends remember man murdered in Austin Loved ones of Edjuan ‘EJ’ Wilson say ‘he knew he was somebody’

By F. AMANDA TUGADE Wednesday Journal

On a cold, rainy Wednesday afternoon, Helena Wilson sends a text to

change the location for the interview with Wednesday Journal. The interview was initially set at the Oak Park Public Library, a place Helena called home for her and her children.

“VACCINES HAVE PROTECTED US FROM POLIO, MEASLES, AND MUMPS. THEY CAN DO THE SAME FOR COVID-19.”

—DR. DAVID TROTTER

“Library is too open, too familiar,” she wrote.

For years she brought her children See ‘EJ’ WILSON on page 6

Visit Chicago.gov/ChildVax

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Austin Weekly News, April 27, 2022

Bitoys Sweet Treats savors its future

Owner Layla Bitoy-Dillon said warmth, customer service puts her Austin shop a cut above the competition

By SAMANTHA CALLENDER Community Narrative Reporter

Bitoys Sweet Treats sits brightly and boldly near the corner of Chicago and Austin avenues with a tiled mosaic out front and a cheerful exterior that stands out along the corridor.

When you step inside, the unique glassblown lamps, bright paints and lush decor feels as though you’re stepping into another world right within Austin.

Owner Layla Bitoy-Dillon said the cheerful and unique vibe is intentional as she works to carry on the long legacy of entrepreneurship that her family brought to Austin nearly 50 years ago and that she continued with the opening of Bitoy’s Sweet Treats in 2015.

“I want kids in Austin to have a positive experience whenever they come through our doors,” Bitoy-Dillon said of the unique interior. “There aren’t many stores in Aus-

tin that look like this, but our kids deserve to be exposed to experiences like this.”

That experience includes a warm greeting by employees when you first enter, with the smell of fresh popcorn, chocolates and warm desserts also greeting the visitor.

The atmosphere is welcoming.

“I make it a point that we have friendly conversations with anyone who steps into the store. Whether it’s your first time or not, we want you to feel welcome,” BitoyDillon said.

Her shop is surely a sweet treat in Austin, serving confections that aren’t found anywhere else in the community. Ranging from handcrafted popcorn to gelato (inspired by her time spent in Italy), Bitoy-Dillon makes sure that Bitoy’s Sweet Treats not only offers a pleasant experience in-store, but online as well.

“We ship nationwide – that’s actually a large part of our business – but we also enable customers to be able to order online

for curbside pickup and we’re on platforms like UberEats. We’re really trying to be innovative and up-to-date with technology,” Bitoy-Dillon said.

Bitoy-Dillon’s corporate background as a business management consultant gave her expertise in areas like marketing and operations necessary to help steer her company through a challenging pandemic. She’s also leveraged that training to identify workforce needs.

When Bitoy-Dillon realized that many potential employees in Austin couldn’t figure out how to operate the technology necessary to run her store, she urged local community organizations to incorporate technology training into their job training programs.

“Customer service these days is more than just ringing someone’s order up,” she said. “It’s about using apps, being able to have amazing conversations via email to support our nationwide customers. It’s

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about being able to collect customer information that we can use down the line in our business. All of that is important to my business and I need employees who understand that and are able to use the technology needed to make these things happen.”

Bitoy-Dillon has also focused on enhancing the community outreach aspect of her business.

“I’m always evolving,” she said. “Right now I’m working closely with the Chicago Blackhawks, as a part of their Support West initiative. Some great things are going to be coming from that relationship that I’m super excited about.”

Bitoy’s Sweet Treats is open Friday and Saturday, noon to 7p.m, and on Sundays, 11 a.m to 4 p.m. You can also order online at www.bitoysbrands.com and follow along on social media @bitoys_sweet_treats.

CONTACT: samantha@austinweeklynews.com

Austin Weekly News, April 27, 2022

AUSTIN WEEKLY

HOUSING

Studying solutions

news

from page 1 lots, preserving and building more affordable homes, and establishing a “pipeline” to make it easier for minority developers to access capital and resources. The two organizations haven’t outlined in detail how the process would work. The Community Trust didn’t respond to calls and emails seeking comment.

Since 1915, the Chicago Community Trust has been giving out grants and making investments to improve the quality of life in Chicago and the suburbs. The Trust also establishes task forces and initiatives to help area nonprofits pursue various goals.

In 2019, the trust adopted a new strategic plan that put more emphasis on “addressing Chicago’s legacy of systemic inequity and closing the racial and ethnic wealth gap,” according to the release. The Trustee Committee made up of representatives of five major Chicago area banks, including JPMorgan Chase, provides oversight and appoints members to the Executive Committee, which actually develops strategies and policies.

JPMorgan Chase currently has a limited physical presence on the West Side. It has branches in West Humboldt Park, at 4440 W. North Ave., on the Hermosa side of Hermosa/Austin border, at 1851 N. Cicero Ave., and inside the Near West Side’s Pete’s Fresh Market location at 2317 W. Madison St. In June 2021, the bank announced that it would spend $150 million on the South and West sides over the next few years, $100 million of which would be used for grants to area nonprofits.

The C3 program is part of JPMorgan Chase’s broader commitment to spend $400 million nationwide over the next five years to “promote housing stability and affordability and improve homeownership opportunities to close the housing affordability gap for Black, Hispanic, and Latino households.”

Joanna Trotter, the bank’s head of philanthropy for the Chicago region, said that homeownership is a way to build wealth, but that opportunity is often out of reach “for far too many people, especially Black, Hispanic and Latino households.” A September 2021 report by the DePaul University Institute for Housing Studies found that homeownership rates for Black and Hispanic families are 35% and 43%, respec-

Equity Editor/Ombudsman/Editor Michael Romain Senior Editor Bob Uphues Digital Publishing & Technology Manager Briana Higgins Community Narrative Reporter Samantha Callender Contributing Reporter Igor Studenkov Reporting Partners Block Club, Austin Talks Columnist Arlene Jones Staff Photographer Alex Rogals Design/Production Manager Andrew Mead Editorial Design Manager Javier Govea Designer Susan McKelvey tively, compared with 54% for white households.

“Today, the racial homeownership gap continues to be the largest contributor to the racial wealth gap,” the report stated.

“The national homeownership rate for Black households has remained virtually unchanged since the passage of the 1968 Fair Housing Act.” The C3 program, Trotter said, would try to remedy those inequities.

“At JPMorgan Chase, we’re committed to helping address barriers to home ownership,” she said. “[We] are pleased to support The Chicago Community Trust to create more opportunities for affordable home ownership in the Chicago region.”

“Owning a home is the single largest source of household wealth, which is why it plays an important role in our strategy to close the region’s racial and ethnic wealth gap,” said Helene Gayle, the Trust’s president. “Working alongside community leaders and partners, we are committed to eliminating the barriers that prevent Black and Latinx individuals and families from accessing affordable home ownership opportunities in their communities.”

According to the press release, the Community Trust will initially work with several West Side organizations, including the Garfield Park Community Council and Neighborhood Housing Services of Chicago.

In the early weeks of March 2020, the Garfield Park Community Council un-

veiled the East Garfield Park Affordability Plan, which creates strategies communities can use to keep housing affordable in the gentrifying community. Some of the plan’s strategies overlap with C3 strategies, including increasing home ownership through housing cooperatives and other forms of shared ownership, and taking active steps to keep housing affordable.

The C3 emphasized preserving multi-flat units, which tend to offer more affordable rent and are owned by “mom-and-pop” landlords who sometimes live in one of the units.

The Trust and its partners would also develop “community-led, scalable solutions to address vacant and abandoned land,” according to the release. While some lots are city-owned, other lots are owned by private entities. There are also cases where ownership is unclear.

La Shone Kelly, the director of housing for the Garfield Park Community Council, said that the C3 program aligns with her organization’s goals.

“As a community-driven organization, we are dedicated to addressing the needs of our residents, which at the top of those needs is the lack of quality housing,” she said. “We welcome the opportunity to collaborate on the 3C initiative as an additional solution to open a path to home ownership by reviving vacant and abandoned properties.”

CONTACT: igorst3@hotmail.com

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Austin Weekly News, April 27, 2022

Neighbors launch fundraiser for family injured in porch collapse

The East Garfield Park building, home to four generations, must be torn down because it’s unstable

By PASCAL SABINO Block Club Chicago

Neighbors are raising money to help a family get back on their feet after part of their home collapsed in East Garfield Park, killing one man and injuring two others.

The home at 3418 W. Jackson Blvd. was a haven for four generations of the owner’s family. In the early morning hours April 12, bricks from the top of the building fell, causing the porch to collapse. Three men who were sitting on the porch were trapped underneath the heavy stone.

Anthony Wright, 53, was taken to Mt. Sinai Hospital and pronounced dead, according to the Cook County Medical Examiner’s office. Two other men, ages 68 and 32, were also injured in the collapse, one with critical crush injuries, and the other with a broken leg and back injury, fire officials said.

Because of the collapse and the building’s condition, the city ordered the building to be torn down. That left the family, including the injured men and building

owner Katie Simmons, without a place to stay.

Neighbor Marcus White launched a GoFundMe to support the two men injured in the collapse and to help the family find stable shelter so they can start over. The family has lived there for 30 years, he said.

“They lost a family member. This isn’t a slum landlord. It’s a family member grieving other family members,” March White said.

The building has a history of code violations, according to the Tribune.

Simmons is a hardworking nurse who turned her home into the lynchpin that held together her family, Marcus White said.

The collapse was an accident and Simmons maintained the century-old building as best she could, even when repairs were costly, White said. Simmons hired contractors over the winter to install a new roof, permit records show.

The city had a court-appointed receiver stabilize the façade of the building to prevent damage to the neighboring buildings until it could be demolished.

“This is the first time she’s without a home,” Marcus White said. “She went to work every single day. That’s her home. …

She had kids from her other family members living with them. She was like a mother for her whole family over there.”

Neighbors are pulling together to help the family that lived in the house since there is a long history of kinship on the block, said Sarah White, who is Marcus White’s grand-

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A day later, debris remains piled in front of the building where one person died and two others were injured after a stone porch collapsed in the 3400 block of West Jackson Boulevard on April 12, 2022. mother. Residents were once organized in a block club that wielded considerable influence in the area, Sarah White said.

“We used to get rid of dope houses. We kept the area around here safe,” she said.

Marcus White has known the family living next door his entire life. The neighbors have been close-knit for generations, and the area is “the type of block that you know everybody’s kids, everybody’s family,” White said.

He heard the collapse and ran to help his friends and neighbors. Marcus White said he worked with others to dig the victims out of the bricks, rubble and massive concrete slabs that had buried them, he said.

Wright, who died from the collapse, was “a good father” who enjoyed spending time

on the stoop with his neighbors and family where they would they would “talk about sports, shoot the breeze, listen to old school music, barbecue,” Marcus White said.

Wright kept an eye on the streets to make sure nothing dangerous happened on the block, and he looked out for all his neighbors, Marcus White said.

“If it’s street cleaning, he’d call around to let you know to move your car. All the neighbors are like that,” Marcus White said.

Subscribe to Block Club Chicago, an independent, 501(c)(3), journalist-run newsroom. Every dime we make funds reporting from Chicago’s neighborhoods.

CONTACT: pascal@blockclubchi.org

Austin Weekly News, April 27, 2022

5

Witness protection program to receive state funding State’s new budget, which takes effect July 1, to allocate $12M for proposal championed by Rep. La Shawn K. Ford

By FRANCIA GARCIA HERNANDEZ AustinTalks

The state budget that takes effect July 1 includes $12 million to fund the state’s witness protection program, state Rep. La Shawn K. Ford told members of the Leaders Network at their monthly meeting.

The funding will help neighbors actively assist in reporting crimes, cover witness protection costs, and pay for a tip line and a pilot program to use ring cameras to help solve crimes, Ford said at last week’s meeting.

In March, faith leaders and community activists demanded the Illinois General Assembly funded the state’s witness protection program, something ministers and other community advocates have been seeking for many years.

“You asked for at least $50 million,” Ford said. “The governor and the legislature reduced the witness protection down to $12 million.”

Faith leaders said funding for the witness

protection program was long overdue and thanked the Austin lawmaker for getting it included in the state’s $46.5 billion budget.

Yet faith leaders and others attending last week’s Leaders Network meeting told Ford that more money is needed to sustain the program.

Funds for other public safety and anticrime efforts are included in the state budget, with $124 million dedicated to law enforcement for ballistic testing, forensic equipment and non-deadly equipment.

Investing in non-deadly equipment is an effort to use “less risking-life methods” when police officers respond to incidents, Ford said.

In addition, he said the state budget includes $70 million for domestic violence protection, $2 million for trauma recovery centers and additional funds for substanceuse disorders.

Ald. Jason C. Ervin (28th) also attended the meeting, during which he explained how the new map proposed by the Chicago City Coun-

cil’s Black Caucus proposes to redraw the city’s 50 wards for the next decade, when the next U.S. Census is held.

The map, known as the Chicago United map, creates 16 wards with a majority of Black voters; one ward with a plurality of Black voters; 14 wards with a majority of Latino voters; one ward with a majority of Asian voters; and 18 wards with a majority of white voters.

“The Chicago United map is what’s gonna be best not only for the West Side but is what’s gonna be best for all Chicago,” said Ervin, who is chairman of the council’s black caucus.

The map is backed by 33 alderpersons, eight votes short of the 41 votes required to win council approval. It is opposed by the Chicago City Council’s Latino Caucus, which proposes a different map that would benefit the Latino population by creating 15 wards with a majority of Latino voters.

If City Council can’t approve a map by May 19, the decision will be determined by Chi-

cago voters through a referendum on June 28.

Ervin said there is a high chance the new map will be voted on in a referendum, stressing the importance of letting West Side residents know they should vote for the map backed by the Black caucus.

“We have to let our people know what ultimately is in the best interest of our community, especially here on the West Side of Chicago,” Ervin said.

Also during last week’s meeting, Deborah Thurmond (formerly Deborah Williams), who serves as secretary of the Leaders Network, shared voter registration activities being organized for Austin residents.

Last month, a coalition of organizations and civic leaders, including Habilitative Systems Inc., Austin Coming Together, the Leaders Network and the NAACP Chicago West Side Branch, organized a March Madness voter’s registration drive that entailed several events on the West Side.

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Austin Weekly News, April 27, 2022

‘EJ’ WILSON

na said her son had a “glow” about him that went beyond first impressions.

They said their son was a product of the Pop Warner Little Scholars youth football program and later played the same sport in from page 1 high school. EJ, who graduated from OPRF in 2019, was also on the basketball team, but to the library. That included her son, Ed- those closest to him knew about his dreams juan, who spent days on end wandering the of becoming a musician. In recent years, EJ aisles, burying his head in the Harry Potter was tucked away in the studio, perfecting series, or hunkered down in the computer his songs, Helena and Edwin said. lab. But with Edjuan Wilson, who among “He was elevating, and what turned out to family and friends was known as EJ, now be what I thought was a hobby was actually gone, the mother of four can’t bring herself his passion,” Helena said. to their favorite spot.

Helena told Wednesday Journal she and “You know how people hang out at the her son often complemented each other. mall or hang out on the beach or hang out in She took on the role of “critiquer” when EJ the park?” asked Helena, who sat at a table shared his songs, while he always encourinside the main library at Concordia Uni- aged her to step out of her comfort zone versity Chicago in nearby River Forest. Her whether it was through dancing or doing eyes were hidden behind sunglasses, mouth other things. EJ was, Helena said, a mama’s covered by a black face mask, bearing her boy. son’s initials – and rap name, A.I. – in red.

Anthony Clark, a teacher at OPRF who “I think we spent as sponsors the school’s hip much time – or more – in hop club, recalled EJ as the the [Oak Park] library student who sang in the than we did in the park, hallways or stopped by his in the beach combined,” classroom to strike up conHelena said, her husband, versations.

Edwin, beside her.

“He was so personable, Here, inside the unihad a great sense of humor versity’s library, Helena and could communicate settled into more memowith anyone, could hold a ries of her children. Years conversation with anyone, ago, Helena was a student make anyone laugh – anat Concordia, working on noy anyone in a good way,” her degree while balancsaid Clark, who met first ing motherhood. EJ and met EJ in the hip hop club. his siblings accompanied “He was just a center of ata young Helena on campus tention – and it was a good grounds. thing.”

Two months have passed “So many students since the couple lost their looked up to him, followed 21-year-old son. EJ, an him, whether it was in “EJ” WILSON Oak Park and River Forest sports, in music, in life, he High School graduate, was just drew you in. He just regunned down in mid-February after leaving ally drew you in,” Clark said. a Subway in the city’s Austin neighborhood, Kevin Radzinski, director of the faithimmediately adjacent to Oak Park. Over the based organization Young Life in Oak Park, last few weeks, former classmates, com- echoed Clark and spoke about EJ’s ability munity members and friends have rallied to connect people together. Radzinski, who around the Wilson family. They held a vigil first met EJ when he was a high school and a balloon release. They also gathered sophomore, told Wednesday Journal a late last month at the site of EJ’s death, can- quick story about a young, “goofy” EJ and vassing the area for clues to help with the his friends at summer camp a few years ago. investigation.

Radzinski explained Young Life hosts an “It’s just a tragedy,” Edwin said, his eyes annual summer camping trip in Michigan watering. “It’s hard to deal with at this and thought back to the time when he was point. I try to stay focused, but it just gets woken up in the middle of the night by EJ overwhelming. He was a good kid.” and his friends. Radzinski said he could still When Helena and Edwin talk about EJ, picture the teenage boys huddled together, they remember his smile, athleticism, out- using his cellphone as a flashlight in the going personality and love for music. Hele- dark cabin.

Remembering his life

PROVIDED

“EJ” Wilson “They’re just scheming, having some talking the whole night about how much we miss our girlfriends, how much time we got fun,” he said, laughing.

Radzinski said there was this other side in life. That was my best friend for real.”

Throughout the interview, Gilbert continof EJ that he and so many at Young Life ued to share anecdotes about EJ. He spoke saw. EJ was a leader who was unafraid of opening up and sharing his experiences as a about how his friend was naturally gifted, Black teen, especially in Oak Park. Radzin- the type who “could pick up a skateboard ski, who is white, said it was because of EJ and do a kick flip without even knowing how to skateboard.” Gilbert that the Young Life chapter in said EJ was the one who Oak Park became more inclutaught him how to box by sive and pulled in more young showing him a couple moves, people of color to the organithe one who taught him all the zation, as well as helped exjokes and kept him up on the pand its mission to serve the new slang. community.

“He was that person I Helena said she was unthought I was going to grow aware of EJ’s role at Young old with,” said Gilbert, who to Life and how instrumental he this day says EJ was his first was in shaping the group. It friend in Oak Park, the first was only after Helena attendperson who talked to him back ed the vigil at First Presbytein elementary school. rian Church in River Forest, Back in the library at Conwhere Young Life members cordia, Helena and Edwin regather, that she learned more HELENA WILSON vealed more memories about about her son.

EJ’s mother their son, with Edwin pausing “You know how you don’t every now and then, his eyes know certain things about swelling up. your children? Well, that was “He knew he was somea little known fact to me,” she said about EJ and his impact on Radzinski body,” Helena said. “No matter what you told him. He knew that he should walk and Young Life.

Keon Gilbert, EJ’s childhood friend, re- around with his chin up.”

Hours after the interview, Helena sent membered those weeklong summer camping trips. Gilbert, now 20 and a college ju- a lengthy text message, rounding out her nior, said one time, he and EJ went on one thoughts about her EJ and who he was as a of those trips, leaving their girlfriends at man, a son, a brother and a friend. home.

In a poem, she summed it up: “Our son, “We were trying to sneak out [of the our middle boy, our joy, our Edjuan. You cabin], meet up with some [other] girls in glow …” the woods, but it was hard to get outside,” Gilbert said, laughing. “So, we were just CONTACT: amanda@oakpark.com

“He knew he was somebody.

No matter what you told him.

He knew that he should walk around with his chin up.”

Austin Weekly News, April 27, 2022

7

FUNDING

A chaotic summer is ahead

T

he long hot summer is about to begin and if this past warm Saturday is any indication, it’s going to be one hell of a ride! From shootings, to carjackings, to just bad behavior in general, I do not look forward to the warm summer days that are approaching.

Sadly, there is no one speaking out to the segment of the population that believes chaos is the norm, to tell them otherwise. We have become a society of excuse-makers. And worse, we have folks believing in their pathetic reasoning. My favorite that I can’t stand to hear is when folks claim you can no longer whip your children. If there’s one group within this entire country that continues to believe in spankings, it is black folks. The same with the ones who complain about prayer being taken out of the classroom. I went to school in the 1960s, and we never

had to formally pray in class.

What has changed, though, is the quality of parents who are raising children.

Truth be told, far too many folks are raising children who do not have any concept of limits.

Those children feel entitled and free to do whatever they please.

All one has to do is watch the news reports from this past weekend of young black teens hanging around Millennium Park to see “Bad Behavior In Action 101.”

If I had my way, when those teens get picked up for curfew violations, or creating whatever havoc, they would be obligated to spend at least 72 hours in a cell with their responsible adult. Within that cell, there would be one cot and one chair.

It would be very interesting to see which one of them got to lie down to go to sleep. It might be the first time in years that the two of them really spent time together. It would

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be a wake-up call for both the child and the responsible adult (and, truthfully, the term “adult” is used quite loosely. Many who are parents are still in a childish mindset themselves).

We also need psychiatric service for both the parent and the child, and it should not be free because people’s pocketbooks always seem to purchase what they want while they beg for what they need. Since we know the majority of those kids do not live around Millennium Park, and are wearing the latest fashion, money is available within that household. So no excuses will be accepted.

My idea would be a huge undertaking, but because we don’t have a reset button to stop this bad behavior that is becoming the norm, then something has to be done that is a wake-up call to everyone involved.

I truly believe that those causing havoc need to see a physical reminder that their freedom is not free. And the price of that freedom will have to be paid, if not monetarily, then by time.

“A lot of young people have turned 18, and it’s time to get them registered to vote with this being an election year,” Thurmond said.

Voter registration activities included outreach, social media posting, events, meetings, workshops, dinners and voter registration pop-ups – all that invited Austin residents to register to vote in the June 28th primary as well as the Nov. 8th general election, or update their voter information.

The coalition also educated residents about the city’s ward redistricting process in preparation for residents who may end up deciding the city council’s new map. Another event on the ward remap will be held May 5th at Michele Clark High School.

“Civic engagement is so important.

People will feel much better about themselves if they get involved in their community,” she said.

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Austin Weekly News, April 27, 2022

In the world of vultures, regular people with power don’t exist

A

mazon’s aggressive, yet stealthy push into the Chicago metropolitan region has been speedy, secretive and subsidized. In this ever-expanding world, people like Howard Ray — who notice what’s happening before it happens, act on that information and demand to be recognized as human beings with political agency and not abstract extensions of a profit-and-loss statement — aren’t supposed to exist.

As WBEZ reported in 2020, when Amazon entered the south suburb of University Park, the developer of what at the time was being called Project Condor (appropriately named after a species of vulture) told village trustees that they had to “keep the identity of the company behind the project a secret, at least until the deal was sealed.

“Second, they had to promise more than $100 million in future tax revenues to help pay for it. And third, they had to ram through a vote on the deal to meet the project’s construction timeline, which put the first shovel in the ground just weeks later on April 1.”

I’m familiar with Amazon’s tendency to silently steamroll municipalities. In January 2020, I interviewed longtime Melrose Park Mayor Ron Serpico after news broke that Amazon was the tenant moving into a 623,000-square-foot warehouse facility on the site of the old Maywood Park racetrack in what was once unincorporated Cook County before Serpico annexed the property in 2018. That warehouse was completed about a year ago.

“In terms of Amazon, about several months ago it was mentioned that [the developer] was negotiating with the company, but Amazon has all these confidentiality agreements, so quite frankly, when it came to our attention it wasn’t really that long ago,” the mayor told me. “Maybe 60 to 90 days ago.”

The mayor acknowledged that there were no community meetings held with residents to address the distribution center’s potential impact on quality of life. There were no discussions with would-be workers about warehouse conditions or wages.

Residents were supposed to look up, suddenly notice the Amazon logo on a building, applaud the company’s mere presence and report for duty.

I call this the ‘Voila! Now shut the f— up’ effect.

In the words of British novelist Christo-

pher Priest, every great magic trick has three acts. In “The Pledge,” the magician “shows you something ordinary. …

Perhaps he asks you to inspect it to see if it is indeed real, unaltered, normal. But of course … it probably isn’t.

“The second act is called ‘The Turn.’ The magician takes the ordinary and makes it do something extraordinary.

Now you’re looking for the secret ... but you won’t find it, because of course you’re not really looking. You don’t really want to know. You want to be fooled. But you wouldn’t clap yet. Because making something disappear isn’t enough; you have to bring it back. That’s why every magic trick has a third act, the hardest part, the part we call ‘The Prestige.’”

If Jeff Bezos, Amazon’s myopic founder, is the magician, Howard Ray is a one-man Penn & Teller.

Roughly a year ago, there were rumors that Amazon was looking to buy a 26-acre site in Chicago’s West Humboldt Park community.

The site was owned by Allied Metals, an alloy producer. Amazon would take the land and people’s tax money and their political agency and by the third act, turn all of that into thousands of jobs paying $16 an hour, property tax revenue, and more business development. The prestige.

But when Howard learned that Amazon had stealthily purchased property in his community and the company well into the second stage of its act, he rushed the stage and started asking questions.

How would the company be held accountable to its neighbors? Beyond the elusive promise of more jobs, how would people be treated once they were hired for them?

Why wasn’t the company holding any public meetings to discuss its plans? Why didn’t any city officials or the alderwoman let residents know about such a massive investment until well after the monopoly company bought the land?

Eventually, Howard formed the West Humboldt Park Community Coalition. The organization held community meetings of its own, some of which were attended by Amazon representatives. They canvassed the area, circulating informational material and gathering residents’ opinions.

The overwhelming neighborhood consensus, Howard told me, is that residents don’t mind Amazon coming into town,

MICHAEL ROMAIN

but they have some demands. They want a Community Benefits Agreement (CBA) that would at least nominally hold the company accountable and that would take into consideration the collateral effects and externalities of doing business. They’re pushing the company to do more robust community outreach, hire at least 60% of the hub’s workforce from the community and pay workers a $28.50 starting wage.

Regardless of whether or not one thinks these demands are realistic, it sounds like these community members want more than anything the power to force Amazon to recognize them as autonomous actors, as mature citizens responsible for their own lives and the lives of their neighbors — power that is vanishingly rare nowadays.

Howard also realized that Amazon’s planned warehouse, which is currently under construction, would be located inside of an Opportunity Zone, which means that the company would get a large tax break if it holds onto the newly constructed warehouse long enough. The Opportunity Zone program was pitched as a way to lure capital to distressed urban areas like the West Side.

If a property is held for at least 10 years, according to a Forbes contributor, the corporate “taxpayer can pay zero capital gains tax on the new investment […] I think that’s the real prize: if you hold your investment in some of these opportunity zones […] you essentially pay no tax on your returns, which could lead to a 30-40% increase in your annualized return. That’s what I want people to really understand: this isn’t a small tax benefit, it’s pretty massive.”

That may help explain the decision by Amazon, whose modus operandi is to aggressively eschew liability (for people, property, processes and even its products), to actually own the West Side property, instead of lease it from another owner, as it does in Melrose Park.

In his 2021 book, Only the Rich Can Play: How Washington Works in the New Gilded Age, Journalist David Wessel traces the genealogy of the Opportunity Zone to the mind of 30-something-year-old “Silicon Valley billionaire wunderkind” Sean Parker, the founder of Napster and Facebooks’s first president.

Parker spent about $11 million to lobby Democrats and Republicans in Washington D.C. before the proposal was “stealthily inserted in six pages of the 185-page Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017, largely thanks to the determination of Sean Parker’s chief congressional ally, Republican Tim Scott of South Carolina, the first Black man to

be elected to the U.S. Senate from the South since Reconstruction.”

Parker is another magician, a master of “the prestige.” Here are millions of acres of blighted, undeveloped inner-city land (Manifest Destiny’s new frontier in certain respects), here is some rhetoric about publicprivate partnerships and socially responsible capitalism and helping the poor and the Blacks, here is the promise of jobs and future development and … Voila!

In Parker’s case, Wessel has rushed the stage to interrupt the trick. Wessel’s book opens with a scene at the Opportunity Zone Expo held May 2019 in Las Vegas.

“It’s clear why the OZ tax break unleashed a flurry of interest from the wealthy, investment funds, real estate developers, and conference organizers,” Wessel writes. “I’m here to witness tax-avoidance capitalism firsthand.”

Inside of the convention center, Wessel notices all kinds of people, “drawn together by the possibility of making money and reducing their taxes. But given that Opportunity Zones were sold as a way to steer investment toward left-behind communities, there are notable absences. I don’t come across, say, many heads of local economic-development groups or capital-starved entrepreneurs based in poor neighborhoods.”

On Monday, the Financial Times reported that Amazon had commissioned “an audit, led by former U.S. attorney general Loretta Lynch, to look into ‘disparate racial impacts’ from its employment practices on its U.S. frontline workforce.”

The decision comes after “pressure from shareholders who had accused the company of putting a disproportionate number of workers of colour in harm’s way in its warehouses, where injury rates are higher than the industry average.”

Cue the pledge, turn and prestige. Voila!

The Financial Times report doesn’t mention that the audit decision also comes a few weeks after a historic election at Amazon’s JFK8 fulfillment center in New York, where workers voted to unionize.

Now, to crash the stage, I predict that, in Lynch’s report (as with former attorney general Eric Holder’s “Civil Rights Assessments” of Starbucks, conducted over the last several years) the workers — as selfdetermining adults with sufficient political power to counteract union-busting Amazon’s seeming omnipotence — will be hard to find.

In this world of vultures, average people with political power don’t exist.

CONTACT: michael@oakpark.com

AustinWeekly News, April 27, 2022

9

HELP WANTED ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH INTERN

The Village of Oak Park is seeking qualified candidates for the position of Environmental Health Intern in the Health Department. This full-time seasonal position will provide assistance to the Environmental Health Practitioners in the inspection and local businesses, homes and other establishments to enforce state and local laws and ordinances related to public Health safety; to respond and resolve citizen complaints regarding nuisances and reported epidemics.

Applicants are encouraged to visit the Village of Oak Park’s website http://www.oak-park.us/jobs.

POLICE RECORDS CLERK

The Village of Oak Park is seeking qualified candidates for the position of Police Records Clerk in the Police Department.

This position will perform a wide variety of specialized clerical duties in support of the Police Department including processing and maintaining documents, correspondence and coding reports; and to provide information and assistance to the public.

Applicants are encouraged to visit the Village of Oak Park’s website at http:// www.oak-park.us/jobs.

PARKING ENFORCEMENT OFFICER

The Village of Oak Park is seeking qualified candidates for the position of Parking Enforcement Officer in the Police Department Field Services Division. This position will perform a variety of duties and responsibilities involved in the enforcement of Village parking regulations; and to provide general information and assistance to the public. Applicants are encouraged to visit the Village of Oak Park’s website http://www.oak-park.us/.

Interested and qualified applicants must complete a Village of Oak Park application.

BUDGET AND REVENUE ANALYST

The Village of Oak Park is seeking qualified candidates for the position of Budget and Revenue Analyst in the Development Customer Service Department. This position will Serve the public with professional administrative and analytical duties in the areas of budget preparation, purchasing, payroll, data analysis and process improvement. Provides, prepares and maintains records, and financial and statistical reports and analysis which assist in the Village’s ability to improve business processes and gain efficiencies through better use of technology.

Budget duties include assisting in the development, analysis and application of performance measures with regard to Village services and resources; preparing, modifying, tracking and monitoring Village expenses and transfers; and conducting budget-related research and analysis. Applicants are encouraged to visit the Village of Oak Park’s website http://www.oak-park.us/ jobs. Interested and qualified applicants must complete a Village of Oak Park application.

FULL TIME DELIVERY DRIVER

Local company looking for full time driver. Must be drug free and have a valid IL DL. Must be able to lift 75lb. $14-16/hr Email resume: HR@sievertelectric.com

COVID-19 RESPONSE INTERN

The Village of Oak Park is seeking qualified candidates for the position of COVID-19 Response Intern in the Health Department.

This position will perform a variety of responsible and complex professional COVID-19 response support, as well as routine documentation of related tasks in support of the Emergency Preparedness & Response Coordinator. Applicants are encouraged to visit the Village of Oak Park’s website http://www.oakpark.us/. Interested and qualified applicants must complete a Village of Oak Park application.

COVID-19 RESPONSE COORDINATOR

The Village of Oak Park is seeking qualified candidates for the position of COVID-19 Response Coordinator in the Health Department. This position will perform a variety of responsible and complex professional COVID-19 response support, as well as routine documentation of related tasks in support of the Emergency Preparedness & Response Coordinator. Applicants are encouraged to visit the Village of Oak Park’s website http://www.oakpark.us/. Interested and qualified applicants must complete a Village of Oak Park application.

SANITARIAN

The Village of Oak Park is seeking qualified candidates for the position of Sanitarian in the Health Department. This position will perform a variety of duties including education and enforcement activities for the promotion and protection of the public health environment.

Applicants are encouraged to visit the Village of Oak Park’s website http://www.oak-park.us/jobs.

FLAT ROOFERS, TUCKPOINTERS AND LABORERS

Call 708-452-7900

HELP WANTED GRANTS COORDINATOR

The Village of Oak Park is seeking qualified candidates for the position of Grants Coordinator in the Development Customer Service Department. This position will develop and coordinate CDBG and other grant-funded programs for the department; coordinates assigned activities with other departments and outside agencies; and to provide highly responsible and complex staff assistance to the Development Customer Services Neighborhood Services Division Manager and department director. Applicants are encouraged to visit the Village of Oak Park’s website http://www.oakpark.us/jobs. Interested and qualified applicants must complete a Village of Oak Park application.

SEASONAL FARMERS’ MARKET ASSISTANT

The Village of Oak Park is seeking qualified candidates for the position of Seasonal Farmers’ Market Assistant in the Health Department.

This position will provide administrative support to the Farmers’ Market Manager to allow growers and producers of food to sell directly to the public within established guidelines. This position requires work in inclement weather conditions; some heavy lifting of up to 50 pounds; walking or standing for sustained periods of time. Applicants are encouraged to visit the Village of Oak Park’s website at http://www. oak-park.us/jobs. Interested and qualified applicants must complete a Village of Oak Park application.

Open until filled.

 

CASHIER

The Village of Oak Park is seeking qualified candidates for the position of Cashier in the Finance Department. This position will perform all clerical tasks related to the cash receipt function. Collect process and deposit payments made to the Village received directly from customers, via mail, or lockbox or from other internal departments.

Applicants are encouraged to visit the Village of Oak Park’s website at http://www.oak-park.us/jobs.

Interested and qualified applicants must complete a Village of Oak Park application.

Starting a New Business?

Publish your Assumed Name legal notice in Austin Weekly News or all of our GCM publications.

Call the Experts! (773) 626-6332



   

HELP WANTED • NETWORK SPECIALIST Class specifications are intended to present a descriptive list of the range of duties performed by employees in the class.

Specifications are not intended to reflect all duties performed within the job.

DEFINITION To perform various network/system administration, computer support, and operational activities for the Village including computer system setup, configuration, and testing.

SUPERVISION RECEIVED AND EXERCISED Reports directly to the Information Technology Services Director.

EXAMPLE OF DUTIES: Essential and other important duties and responsibilities may include, but are not limited to, the following: Essential duties and responsibilities 1. Ensure that best in class customer service is provided to both internal and external customers and also embrace, support, and promote the Village’s core values, beliefs and culture.

2. Configure, test, and deploy network systems, such as, firewalls, routers, switches, wireless equipment, network servers and storage arrays.

3. Configure, test, and deploy system servers, such as, file, print, Internet, e-mail, database, and application servers.

4. Configure, test, and monitor server and end-user systems for security, such as, user accounts, login scripts, file access privileges, and group policy management.

5. Configure, test, and deploy end-user systems, such as, workstations, laptops, mobile devices, printers, and software.

6. Test, configure, deploy, and support security systems, such as, facility access system, video & audio system.

7. Monitor and auditing of networks, systems, and user activities to ensure security and efficiency of systems. Create scripts and reports of detail activities for regular review.

8. Perform and participate in disaster recovery activities, such as, backup procedures, data recovery, and system recovery planning.

9. Assist end-users with computer problems or queries. Troubleshoot systems as needed and meet with users to analyze specific system needs.

10. Ensure the uniformity, reliability and security of system resources including network, hardware,

software and other forms of systems and data.

11. Prepare, create and update user/technical procedure documentations and provide computer training.

12. Assemble, test, and install network, telecommunication and data equipment and cabling.

13. Participate in research and recommendation of technology solutions.

Other important responsibilities and duties 1. Train users in the area of existing, new or modified computer systems and procedures.

2. Participate in the preparation of various activity reports.

3. Travel and support remote facilities and partner agencies.

4. Operate, administer and manage the Village and Public Safety computer systems, including E-911 center, in-vehicle computer systems.

5. Prepare clear and logical reports and program documentation of procedures, processes, and configurations.

6. Complete projects on a timely and efficient manner.

7. Communicate effectively both orally and in writing.

8. Establish and maintain effective working relationships with those contacted in the course of work.

9. Perform related duties and responsibilities as required.

QUALIFICATIONS Knowledge of: Principals and procedures of computer systems, such as, data communication, hierarchical structure, backups, testing and critical analysis.

Hardware and software configuration of. computers, servers and mobile devices, including computing environment of Windows Server and Desktop OS and applications, Unix/Linux OS, VMware, iOS/Android.

Network protocols, security, configuration and administration, including firewalls, routers, switches and wireless technology.

Cabling and wiring, including CAT5/6, fiber network, telephone, serial communication, termination, and punch-down.

Telecommunications theory and technology, including VoiP, serial communication, wireless protocols, PBX, analog, fax, voicemail and auto-attendant.

Principles and methods of computer programming, coding and testing, including power shell, command scripting, macros, and

VB scripts.

Modern office procedures, methods and computer equipment.

Technical writing, office productivity tools and database packages.

Ability to: Maintain physical condition appropriate to the performance of assigned duties and responsibilities, which may include the following: - Walking, standing or sitting for extended periods of time - Operating assigned equipment - Lift 50 pounds of equipment, supplies, and materials without assistance - Working in and around computer equipped vehicles Maintain effective audio-visual discrimination and perception needed for: - Making observations - Communicating with others - Reading and writing - Operating assigned equipment and vehicles Maintain mental capacity allowing for effective interaction and communication with others.

Maintain reasonable and predictable attendance.

Work overtime as operations require.

Experience and Training Guidelines Experience: Three years of network/system administration in the public or private sector, maintaining a minimum of 75 Client Workstation computers. AND Training: Possession of a Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university with major coursework in computer science or a related field. Certifications in Microsoft Server Administration, Networking, Applications and Cisco Networking.

Possession of a valid Illinois Driver License is required at the time of appointment.

Vaccination against COVID-19 strongly preferred.

WORKING CONDITIONS Work in a computer environment; sustained posture in a seated position for prolonged periods of time; continuous exposure to computer screens; work in and around computerized vehicles outdoor and garage facility; lifting heavy equipment, communication cabling and wiring into walls and ceilings.

✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸✸

10

Austin Weekly News, April 27, 2022

CLASSIFIED

BY PHONE: (708) 613-3333 BY FAX: (708) 467-9066 BY E-MAIL: EMAIL@GROWINGCOMMUNITYMEDIA.ORG

MARKETPLACE

CAREGIVER

Caregiver for senior

WANTED TO BUY

HOME SERVICES WANTED TO BUY

Affordable price, excellent references.

With a car. 24-hour live-in overnight or hourly come and go.

708-692-2580 CAREGIVER

MATURE CAREGIVER Trustworthy, honest 20 yrs. Exp. 773-557-2781

AUTO FOR SALE SALE AUTO FOR 2005 Hyundai Sonata • 28,700 miles! • Original owner • Silver • 4 door sedan • Sunroof • Automatic trans • 2022 battery • Regularly maintained • Garage kept $8,000.00 (OBO)

Call 630-335-5406

CLASSICS WANTED CLASSICS Restored or Restored or Unrestored Unrestored

Cars Motorcycles Cars & & Vintage Vintage Motorcycles Domestic / Import Import Cars: Cars: Mercedes, Porsche, Corvette, Mercedes, Porsche, Corvette, Ferrari’s, MuscleCars, Cars, Ferrari’s,Jaguars, Jaguars, Muscle Mustang && Mopars Mopars Mustang Top $$ Etc. $$$$Top $$allallmakes, makes, Etc.

Collector James Collector James 630-201-8122 630-201-8122

WANTED MILITARY ITEMS: Restored or Unrestored Cars & Vintage Motorcycles Domestic / Import Cars:

Helmets, medals, patches, uniforms, weapons, flags, photos, paperwork, Also toy soldiers – lead or plastic – other misc. toys.

Call Uncle Gary 708-522-3400

RENTALS Mercedes, & REAL Porsche, ESTATE Corvette, Ferrari’s, Jaguars, Muscle ROOMS SPACE FOR RENT Cars, Mustang & Mopars FOR RENT

WANTED TO RENT WANTED TO RENT Coach House/Guest House Wanted to Rent Contact George at 708-722-1111or gfunkpunk@gmail.com with info.

WANTED TO RENT Garage Wanted to Rent 2 car or Larger.

Contact George at 708-722-1111or gfunkpunk@gmail.com with info.

CEMENT

MAGANA

C O N C R E T E C O N S T RU C T I O N

CLASSICS WANTED WANTED TO BUY

RIVER FOREST–7777 Lake St. * 1116 sq. ft. * 1400 sq. ft. Dental Office RIVER FOREST–7756 Madison St. * 960 sq. ft.

OAK PARK–6142-44 Roosevelt Rd. * 3 & 5 room office suites FOREST PARK–7736 Madison St. *2500 sq. ft. unit Strand & & Browne Strand Browne 708-488-0011 708-488-0011

CEMENT

$$ Top $$ all makes, Etc. Collector James

630-201-8122

“QUALITY IS OUR FOUNDATION” ESTABLISHED IN 1987

COMMERCIAL INDUSTRIAL RESIDENTIAL

708.442.7720 '5,9(:$<6 )281'$7,216 3$7,26 67(36 &85% *877(56 6,'(:$/.6 612: 3/2:,1* 67$03(' &2/25(' $**5(*$7( &21&5(7( FREE ESTIMATES LICENSED, BONDED & INSURED

ELECTRICAL Ceiling Fans Installed

ELECTRICAL

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We install plugs for battery-operated vehicles We fix any electrical problem and do small jobs We install Surge Protectors • Home Re-wiring • New Plugs & Switches Added • New circuit breaker boxes • Code violations corrected Service upgrades,100-200 amp • Garage & A/C lines installed Fast Emergency Service | Residential • Commercial • Industrial Free Home Evaluations | Lic. • Bonded • Ins. • Low Rates • Free Est.

708-409-0988 • 708-738-3848 Sr. Discounts • 30 Yrs. Exp. Servicing Oak Park • All surrounding suburbs • Chicago area

CLEANING CLASSIC PAINTING Fast & Neat Painting/Taping/Plaster Repair Low Cost - 708.749.0011

HANDY MAN

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LANDSCAPING FAST DELIVERY

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Premium Shredded Hardwood ���������������$28/yd Dyed Red ������������������$35/yd Dyed Brown ��������������$33/yd Playmat��������������������$30/yd Premium Blend Dark �$38/yd Premium Bark Fines��$48/yd Blonde Cedar ������������$54/yd • Spreading Available! • Topsoil, Garden Mix, Mushroom, Super Mix, Compost, Gravel, Sand

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HAULING

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708-848-9404

CLASSIC PAINTING Fast & Neat Painting/Taping/Plaster Repair Low Cost - 708.749.0011

PUBLIC NOTICE

PUBLIC NOTICE

Health Resources and Services Administration

PUBLIC NOTICE Loretto Hospital will be conducting a public hearing on Thursday, April 28, 2022, from 5:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m. to discuss the hospital’s intention to apply for buses through the Illinois Department of Transportation’s (IDOT) Consolidated Vehicle Procurement (CVP) Program.

The buses will be used to provide patients with transportation to its clinics. The hearing will take place at Loretto Hospital’s main campus located at 645 S. Central Avenue, Chicago, IL 60644. Residents are invited to attend the hearing to learn more.

NOTICE TO THE PUBLIC OF FINDING OF NO SIGNIFICANT IMPACT for PCC Austin Family Health Center Campus New Construction Project In accordance with the National Environmental Policy Act, the Council on Environmental Quality regulations for implementing NEPA (40 CFR Parts 1500 through 1508) and the HHS General Administration Manual Part 30 Environmental Protection (February 25, 2000), HRSA has determined that the PCC Austin Family Health Center Campus New Construction project proposed by PCC Community Wellness Center will have no significant adverse impact on the quality of the human environment. As a result of this FONSI, an Environmental Impact Statement will not be prepared.

The Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) of the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) provides discretionary grant and cooperative agreement awards to support health centers expand their capacity to provide primary and preventive health care services to medically underserved populations nationwide.

PCC Community Wellness Center in Chicago, Illinois has applied for HRSA grant funding. The applicant proposes to use grant funds to construct a new three-story, 35,395 square-foot medical clinic with an associated parking lot at 5475 W. Lake Street in Chicago.

The applicant has submitted an Environmental Assessment (EA) that documents impacts of the proposed action. This EA is incorporated by reference into this FONSI. Additional project information is contained in the Environmental Assessment for this project, which is on file at the following locations for public examination upon request.

Austin Branch, Chicago Public Library 5615 W. Race Ave, Chicago, IL 60644 Attn: Librarian Phone: 312-746-5038 Email: austin@chipublib.org Hours: Mon/Wed 10am-8pm, Tues/Thurs 10am-6pm, Fri/Sat 9am-5pm PCC Austin Family Health Center 5425 W. Lake St, Chicago, IL 60644 Attn: Carla Land Phone: 708-524-7687 Email: cland@pccwellness.org Hours: Mon-Thurs 8am-8pm, Fri 8am-5pm, Sat 8am-12pm No further environmental review of this project is proposed prior to final approval from HRSA. Public Comments Any individual, group, or agency disagreeing with this determination or wishing to comment on these projects may submit written comments to PCC Community Wellness Center, Attn: Carla Land, Director of Development and Communications, at 14 Lake Street, Oak Park, IL 60302.

HRSA will consider all comments received within 15 days of this “Notice” prior to final approval from HRSA. Published in Austin Weekly News April 20,27, 2022

Published in Austin Weekly News April 27, 2022

REAL ESTATE FOR SALE IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF COOK COUNTY, ILLINOIS COUNTY DEPARTMENT CHANCERY DIVISION JPMORGAN CHASE BANK, NATIONAL ASSOCIATION Plaintiff, -v.SANTEL MELTON, UNKNOWN OWNERS AND NONRECORD CLAIMANTS, UNKNOWN HEIRS AND LEGATEES OF HERBERT MELTON JR., STATE OF ILLINOIS - DEPARTMENT OF REVENUE, JULIE FOX, AS SPECIAL REPRESENTATIVE FOR HERBERT MELTON JR. (DECEASED) Defendants 2020 CH 02843 4112 W 5TH AVE CHICAGO, IL 60624 NOTICE OF SALE PUBLIC NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale entered in the above cause on February 3, 2022, an agent for The Judicial Sales Corporation, will at 10:30 AM on May 31, 2022, at The Judicial Sales Corporation, One South Wacker, 1st Floor Suite 35R, Chicago, IL, 60606, sell at a public sale to the highest bidder, as set forth below, the following described real estate: Commonly known as 4112 W 5TH AVE, CHICAGO, IL 60624 Property Index No. 16-15-406-0210000 The real estate is improved with a single family residence.

Sale terms: 25% down of the highest bid by certified funds at the close of the sale payable to The Judicial Sales Corporation. No third party checks will be accepted. The balance, including the Judicial Sale fee for the Abandoned Residential Property Municipality Relief Fund, which is calculated on residential real estate at the rate of $1 for each $1,000 or fraction thereof of the amount paid by the purchaser not to exceed $300, in certified funds/or wire transfer, is due within twenty-four (24) hours. No fee shall be paid by the mortgagee acquiring the residential real estate pursuant to its credit bid at the sale or by any mortgagee, judgment creditor, or other lienor acquiring the residential real estate whose rights in and to the residential real estate arose prior to the sale. The subject property is subject to general real estate taxes, special assessments, or special taxes levied against said real estate and is offered for sale without any representation as to quality or quantity of title and without recourse to Plaintiff and in “AS IS” condition. The sale is further subject

Austin Weekly News, April 27, 2022

CLASSIFIED

11

BY PHONE: (708) 613-3333 BY FAX: (708) 467-9066 BY E-MAIL: EMAIL@GROWINGCOMMUNITYMEDIA.ORG

REAL ESTATE FOR SALE

REAL ESTATE FOR SALE

REAL ESTATE FOR SALE

REAL ESTATE FOR SALE

to confirmation by the court.

Upon payment in full of the amount bid, the purchaser will receive a Certificate of Sale that will entitle the purchaser to a deed to the real estate after confirmation of the sale.

The property will NOT be open for inspection and plaintiff makes no representation as to the condition of the property. Prospective bidders are admonished to check the court file to verify all information.

If this property is a condominium unit, the purchaser of the unit at the foreclosure sale, other than a mortgagee, shall pay the assessments and the legal fees required

by The Condominium Property Act, 765 ILCS 605/9(g)(1) and (g)(4).

If this property is a condominium unit which is part of a common interest community, the purchaser of the unit at the foreclosure sale other than a mortgagee shall pay the assessments required by The Condominium Property Act, 765 ILCS 605/18.5(g-1).

IF YOU ARE THE MORTGAGOR (HOMEOWNER), YOU HAVE THE RIGHT TO REMAIN IN POSSESSION FOR 30 DAYS AFTER ENTRY OF AN ORDER OF POSSESSION, IN ACCORDANCE WITH SECTION 15-1701(C) OF THE ILLINOIS MORTGAGE FORECLOSURE LAW. You will need a photo identification issued by a government agency (driver’s license, passport, etc.) in order to gain entry into our building and the foreclosure sale room in Cook County and the same identification for sales held at other county venues where The Judicial Sales Corporation conducts foreclosure sales.

For information, examine the court file, CODILIS & ASSOCIATES, P.C. Plaintiff’s Attorneys, 15W030 NORTH FRONTAGE ROAD, SUITE 100, BURR RIDGE, IL, 60527 (630) 794-9876 THE JUDICIAL SALES CORPORATION One South Wacker Drive, 24th Floor, Chicago, IL 60606-4650 (312) 236-SALE You can also visit The Judicial Sales Corporation at www.tjsc.com for a 7 day status report of pending sales.

CODILIS & ASSOCIATES, P.C. 15W030 NORTH FRONTAGE ROAD, SUITE 100 BURR RIDGE IL, 60527 630-794-5300 E-Mail: pleadings@il.cslegal.com Attorney File No. 14-20-01890 Attorney ARDC No. 00468002 Attorney Code. 21762 Case Number: 2020 CH 02843 TJSC#: 42-978 NOTE: Pursuant to the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act, you are advised that Plaintiff’s attorney is deemed to be a debt collector attempting to collect a debt and any information obtained will be used for that purpose.

Case # 2020 CH 02843 I3192900

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF COOK COUNTY, ILLINOIS COUNTY DEPARTMENT CHANCERY DIVISION US BANK NATIONAL ASSOCIATION AS INDENTURE TRUSTEE FOR THE HOLDERS OF THE CIM TRUST 2021-NR3, MORTGAGE BACKED NOTES SERIES 2021-NR3; Plaintiff, vs.

DESMOND LEE; BARBARA LEE; STATE OF ILLINOIS; Defendants, 21 CH 3117 NOTICE OF SALE PUBLIC NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale entered in the above entitled cause Intercounty Judicial Sales Corporation will on Monday, May 16, 2022 at the hour of 11 a.m. in their office at 120 West Madison Street, Suite 718A, Chicago, Illinois, sell at public auction to the highest bidder for cash, as set forth below, the following described mortgaged real estate: P.I.N. 16-10-324-011-0000.

Commonly known as 4717 W. WEST END AVENUE, CHICAGO, IL 60644.

The mortgaged real estate is improved with a multi-family residence. The successful purchaser is entitled to possession of the property only. The purchaser may only obtain possession of units within the multi-unit property occupied by individuals named in the order of possession.

Sale terms: 10% down by certified funds, balance, by certified funds, within 24 hours. No refunds.

The property will NOT be open for inspection.

For information call Mr. Ira T. Nevel at Plaintiff’s Attorney, Law Offices of Ira T. Nevel, 175 North Franklin Street, Chicago, Illinois 60606.

(312) 357-1125. 21-00342 ADC INTERCOUNTY JUDICIAL SALES CORPORATION intercountyjudicialsales.com I3191817

of Foreclosure and Sale entered in the above cause on February 15, 2022, an agent for The Judicial Sales Corporation, will at 10:30 AM on May 19, 2022, at The Judicial Sales Corporation, One South Wacker, 1st Floor Suite 35R, Chicago, IL, 60606, sell at a public sale to the highest bidder, as set forth below, the following described real estate: Commonly known as 5223 W ADAMS STREET, CHICAGO, IL 60644 Property Index No. 16-16-108-0130000 The real estate is improved with a residence.

Sale terms: 25% down of the highest bid by certified funds at the close of the sale payable to The Judicial Sales Corporation. No third party checks will be accepted. The balance, including the Judicial Sale fee for the Abandoned Residential Property Municipality Relief Fund, which is calculated on residential real estate at the rate of $1 for each $1,000 or fraction thereof of the amount paid by the purchaser not to exceed $300, in certified funds/or wire transfer, is due within twenty-four (24) hours. No fee shall be paid by the mortgagee acquiring the residential real estate pursuant to its credit bid at the sale or by any mortgagee, judgment creditor, or other lienor acquiring the residential real estate whose rights in and to the residential real estate arose prior to the sale. The subject property is subject to general real estate taxes, special assessments, or special taxes levied against said real estate and is offered for sale without any representation as to quality or quantity of title and without recourse to Plaintiff and in “AS IS” condition. The sale is further subject to confirmation by the court.

Upon payment in full of the amount bid, the purchaser will receive a Certificate of Sale that will entitle the purchaser to a deed to the real estate after confirmation of the sale.

Where a sale of real estate is made to satisfy a lien prior to that of the United States, the United States shall have one year from the date of sale within which to redeem, except that with respect to a lien arising under the internal revenue laws the period shall be 120 days or the period allowable for redemption under State law, whichever is longer, and in any case in which, under the provisions of section 505 of the Housing Act of 1950, as amended (12 U.S.C. 1701k), and subsection (d) of section 3720 of title 38 of the United States Code, the right to redeem does not arise, there shall be no right of redemption.

The property will NOT be open for inspection and plaintiff makes no representation as to the condition of the property. Prospective bidders are admonished to check the court file to verify all information.

If this property is a condominium unit, the purchaser of the unit at the foreclosure sale, other than a mortgagee, shall pay the assessments and the legal fees required

by The Condominium Property Act, 765 ILCS 605/9(g)(1) and (g)(4).

If this property is a condominium unit which is part of a common interest community, the purchaser of the unit at the foreclosure sale other than a mortgagee shall pay the assessments required by The Condominium Property Act, 765 ILCS 605/18.5(g-1).

IF YOU ARE THE MORTGAGOR (HOMEOWNER), YOU HAVE THE RIGHT TO REMAIN IN POSSESSION FOR 30 DAYS AFTER ENTRY OF AN ORDER OF POSSESSION, IN ACCORDANCE WITH SECTION 15-1701(C) OF THE ILLINOIS MORTGAGE FORECLOSURE LAW. You will need a photo identification issued by a government agency (driver’s license, passport, etc.) in order to gain entry into our building and the foreclosure sale room in Cook County and the same identification for sales held at other county venues where The Judicial Sales Corporation conducts foreclosure sales.

For information, examine the court file, CODILIS & ASSOCIATES, P.C. Plaintiff’s Attorneys, 15W030 NORTH FRONTAGE ROAD, SUITE 100, BURR RIDGE, IL, 60527 (630) 794-9876 THE JUDICIAL SALES CORPORATION One South Wacker Drive, 24th Floor, Chicago, IL 60606-4650 (312) 236SALE You can also visit The Judicial Sales Corporation at www.tjsc.com for a 7 day status report of pending sales.

CODILIS & ASSOCIATES, P.C. 15W030 NORTH FRONTAGE ROAD, SUITE 100 BURR RIDGE IL, 60527 630-794-5300 E-Mail: pleadings@il.cslegal.com Attorney File No. 14-21-02975 Attorney ARDC No. 00468002 Attorney Code. 21762 Case Number: 2021CH04393 TJSC#: 42-813 NOTE: Pursuant to the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act, you are advised that Plaintiff’s attorney is deemed to be a debt collector attempting to collect a debt and any information obtained will be used for that purpose.

Case # 2021CH04393 I3192419

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF COOK COUNTY, ILLINOIS COUNTY DEPARTMENT CHANCERY DIVISION REVERSE MORTGAGE FUNDING LLC Plaintiff, -v.ETHOLA JORDAN, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA SECRETARY OF HOUSING AND URBAN DEVELOPMENT, SYMPHONY OF EVANSTON HEALTHCARE, LLC, UNKNOWN OWNERS AND NONRECORD CLAIMANTS Defendants 2021CH04393 5223 W ADAMS STREET CHICAGO, IL 60644 NOTICE OF SALE PUBLIC NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that pursuant to a Judgment

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