Austin Weekly News 061423

Galewood residents launch petition urging Johnson to take action on local librar y

Petition launched at the urging of U.S. Bank developer

By IGOR STUDENKOV Staff Reporter

As ne gotiations over the possibility of a neighborhood library moving into the redeveloped U.S. Bank building at 6700 W. North Ave. drag on, the developer is hoping that a petition from Galewood residents would spur the city and the recently inaugurated Mayor Brandon Johnson into action.

Ever since the Chicago Public Library system moved the Galewood branch library to a room at the Rutherford-Sayre fieldhouse, 6871 W. Belden Ave., in 2010, residents have been clamoring for a larger space. There have been several plans to accomplish that. Most recently, Viktor Jakovljevic, developer of the for mer U.S. Bank building,

Sports bring West Side youth, police, faith leaders together

By FRANCIA GARCIA HERNANDEZ Staff Reporter

On Saturday, nearly 500 children and youth from the West Side arrived in their baseball uniforms at the Garfield Park Golden Dome. They joined Chi-

cago police officers, many of whom are also youth sports coaches, to march in the annual parade of teams of Chicago Westside Sports.

Chicago Westside Sports brings together volunteers from local organiza-

Local orgs, faith leaders, police collaborate for a safe summer

15th District CAPS and community partners plan series of summer activities in Austin

By FRANCIA GARCIA HERNANDEZ Staff Reporter

The event was funded through a city of Chicago PlayStreets grant, distributed to Austin Youth Travel Adventures by local nonprofit BUILD Chicago. PlayStreets grants are provided to community-based organizations and city blocks to host popup events on streets in the West and South sides of Chicago where youth and families can be physically active, learn and have fun.

Crystal Dyer, president of Austin Youth

tnership is an example of an ongoing collaboration between the police department and community organizations

ent was announced at the 15th

District faith-based meeting held on June 6, among many other events and initiatives. This monthly meeting is an oppor-

Artists trained as community health workers in city pilot

which is a growing field and to use that training to merge with artistic practices to serve communities.”

Applications close June 22

By FRANCIA GARCIA HERNANDEZ Staff Reporter

A pilot program in the city of Chicago will select 10 artists to receive training to become community health workers, an initiative designed to strengthen trauma-informed and culturally responsive health services in communities disproportionately impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. Through this pilot program artists can access career pathways in creative therapy.

“Chicago is ripe with lots of artists who work with community and who think of the work they’re doing, through all kinds of creative interventions, is helping people,” Meida McNeal, senior manager of arts and community impact investments at the Department of Cultural Af fairs and Special Events, said. “They’re helping people express themselves better, mitigate conflict and envision a more productive future for themselves and their communities.”

McNeal said the pilot program is an extension of that work that responds to the labor needs of Chicago artists, many of whom lost their jobs or lacked a sustained income during the COVID-19 pandemic. Simultaneously, the pandemic increased the demand for mental health services citywide and nationally. It is the result of a collaboration between the city’s department of cultural af fairs, the Chicago Department of Public Health and City Colleges of Chicago.

“This felt like a great opportunity to mix those two needs, to build a pipeline for ar tists to become community health workers,

AU STIN WEEKLY news

The Chicago Arts & Health Pilot for Creative Workers is funded by American Rescue Plan coronavirus funds and a grant from FGC, a national funder of community projects. It is also supported by One Nation One Project, a national arts and health initiative taking place in nine cities and towns in the United States.

Through this pilot program, Chicago will join cities like Providence, Rhode Island

“There has been a lot of work and research, not just nationally but internationally with the idea of social prescription,” McNeal said. Through social prescription, mental health clinicians prescribe creative activities to help support their patients’ wellness goals.

Artists selected for the apprenticeship program will be awarded $66,000 to participate in a full-time year-long training program from Fall 2023 through late fall of 2024. The apprenticeship program includes a certification as a community health worker at Malcolm X Colle ge, where they will also be trained in mental health first aid and overdose prevention. They will also get practical experience through on-the-job training at one of the five mental health clinics run by the city of Chicago. The award covers the artist’s salary and benefits. In addition, they receive a fully funded tuition package from City Colleges of Chicago that covers tuition, books and stipends and a $10,000 budget for materials and supplies to support their programming at mental health clinics. As part of the pilot program, they will have access to mentorship and participation in One Nation One Project creative public events taking place in July 2024.

Senior Editor Bob Uphues

Sta Reporters Igor Studenkov, Francia Garcia Hernandez, Amaris Rodriguez

Digital Manager

Stacy Coleman

Reporting Partners Block Club, Austin Talks

Columnist Arlene Jones

Design/Production Manager Andrew Mead

Editorial Design Manager Javier Govea

Designer Susan McKelvey

Sales & Marketing Representavies

Lourdes Nicholls, Marc Stopeck, Kamil Brady

Business & Development Manager Mary Ellen Nelligan

Circulation Manager Jill Wagner

Publisher Dan Haley

Special Projec ts Manager Susan Walker

BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Chair Judy Gre n

Treasurer Nile Wendorf

artists into short-term community health residencies at community-based organizations during the COVID-19 pandemic.

“It became a really important model for us in Chicago to think about what we can create that will bring artists into community healthcare centers and offer creative services as an intervention,” McNeal said, adding the city’s pilot was designed with input from local mental health clinicians, the Chicago Mental Health Board,

The pilot program is also inspired by data and research that shows the effects of arts in mental health and wellness.

To be eligible, artists must meet at least one of three requirements: live in qualifying community areas including low to moderate income communities or qualified census tracts, have an annual household income that does not exceed the low to moderate income limits for the Chicago Metro area or have evidence that can demonstrate they were a dislocated worker between March 2020 and December 2021. Other requirements apply. Experience in mental health or community health is not required, yet it is welcomed.

Applications close June 22. For more information about eligibility, visit the Department of Cultural Af fairs and Special Events website.

Deb Abrahamson, Gary Collins, Steve Edwards, Darnell Shields, Sheila Solomon, Eric Weinheimer

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10 artists will be selected for paid one -year ar tist apprenticeships.

SAFE SUMMER Organized fun

from page 2

tunity for faith leaders and community members to share valuable information and resources with the community. Many of these events are organized by or supported by the 15th District community policing office. The 15th District’s top leader, Cmdr. Andre Parham is also in support of

these efforts.

“In the 15th District, we all work together,” Parham told approximately 40 attendees at the faith-based meeting. Parham said the police department continuously works with community leaders to address many of the community’s needs and bring resources to prevent violence.

Steve Epting, pastor of Hope Community Church, shared an opportunity for faith leaders and caregivers of older adults to participate in a free online faith-based training program by Boston University. This course teaches participants to under-

Youth participate in fun activities at the last day of school block party organized by community partners at the 700 block of North Lorel Avenue

stand and identify the mental health needs of older adults, a population that many faith leaders in the Austin area serve.

“If there is one thing we all have in common is we’re getting older,” Epting said as he urged faith leaders at the meeting and community members to participate so they can use that knowledge to support seniors in their cong re gations and families.

Youth programming was also heavily discussed at the faith-based meeting, with faith leaders and community members urging everyone to engage with youth.

Chris Thomas, founder and CEO of YourPassion1st and Tina Augustus, co-founder of the Chicago West Side Chamber of Commerce, shared key findings on youth needs. Thomas and Augustus are part of the 15th District’s youth committee, which surveyed 212 young adults in Austin to understand their needs, concerns and motivations.

The surveyed youth said one of their main motivations is spending time with their family and friends, they want help to increase their confidence and they want to see less violence in their community.

“We’re taking this data to craft events for youth,” Thomas said. On July 29, more than two dozen community and public organizations, including YourPassion1st, Chicago Westside Sports, SLAM, BUILD Chicago, Project Exploration, the 15th Chicago Police CAPS, Illinois Department of

Human Services, Chicago West Side Chamber of Commerce, will host a youth empowerment music festival at Columbus Park.

Thomas said all quantitative and qualitative data is being analyzed by the youth committee and will be presented to the faith-based committee later this summer so they can use it to create “meaningful experiences” to engage youth.

Dorin “Pastor Mac” McIntyre of Mount Olivet Missionary Baptist Church said the yearly violence prevention campaign 100 Blocks/100 Churches will return this summer. In 100 Blocks/100 Churches, faith leaders and community members occupy spaces identified to have high violence or crime levels, known as hot spots, on recurring dates and times. They come together to unite for peace, engage with people who are in the area and oftentimes, bring information and valuable resources to share.

Earlier in May, the faith-based committee hosted two training sessions where representatives from approximately 42 organizations learned to safely engage with people on the streets and connect with community members.

Other events prepared for residents and youth this summer include job fairs, mental health events and youth-focused festivals. For more information, residents can contact the 15th District CAPS office at CAPS015District@chicagopolice.org or call 312-743-1440.

PROVIDED, CHIC AG O AUSTIN YOUTH TRAVEL ADVENTURES

Broadview celebrates Black culture and freedom

Juneteenth Festival of Freedom will be hosted June 16-18

By AMARIS E. RODRIGUEZ Staff Reporter

“Black history is part of American history,” said Broadview Mayor Katrina R. Thompson, as she talked about the importance of the upcoming Juneteenth Festival of Freedom celebration.

The celebration starts on Friday June 16 from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. with the Broadview Resident Meet and Greet, giving the feel of a traditional family reunion, said Thompson. On Saturday, June 17, the village will have its Festival of Freedom from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. with headliner West End 40, a band with a diverse blend of R&B, jazz, gospel and more. West End 40 will be taking the stage at around 5 p.m.

And on Sunday, the village will celebrate the 50 years of hip-hop, which includes a firework show and a performance from Soul to the Bone.

“June is Black Music Month,” Thompson said. “I love hip-hop music but it is not just hip-hop music that is going to be played. It is going to be all the songs that have been played throughout for African Americans and that is exciting because now we get to hear the Motown, or blues, or jazz.”

Sunday will also host a morning worship outside, which Thompson said will be a lot of fun for participants.

“It brings joy to my heart that we can celebrate something through music,” Thompson said.

Celebration is really the theme of the event, as dads will be able to celebrate Father’s Day on Sunday and enjoy a cigar and

whiskey tent at the event.

For Thompson, hosting the Juneteenth Festival is a way of acknowledging the Black culture and the contributions their history has on American history.

“It’s important that we educate and in-

Malcolm X. College celebrates Junete

Includes scholarship reception, panels, family enter tainment

By AMARIS E. RODRIGUEZ and IGOR STUDENKOV Staff Reporters

Malcolm X. Colle ge, 1900 W. Jackson Blvd., will hold a two-day Juneteenth celebration this weekend.

Now in its third year, the festival is organized by a group of Cook County commissioners, state and federal representatives and aldermen that mostly represent the South and West sides of Chicago, including Commissioner Dennis Deer (2nd), Alds. Monique Scott (24th) and Walter Burnett (27th) and Cong. Danny Davis (D-7).

On the evening of June 16, Chicago mayor Brandon Johnson will speak at the Juneteenth Scholarship Reception at the 540 W. Madison St. building rooftop. The evening’s program includes a showcase of youth leadership in the arts with African dance, a drumline, soulful music, the annual “Divine 9 roll call,” and great food.

On June 17, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., the colle ge will host panel discussions, a resource fair and a blood drive. Cook County Board President Toni Preckwinkle will give opening remarks, followed by panels on health equity, criminal justice reform, Black en-

form and bring awareness to the Black community,” Thompson said. “We have a culture too and we should honor that and respect that space.”

As a Black leader, T hompson said it was important to her to continue to carry on the conversations relating to things that impact the Black community, including their culture and support for one another.

“As we look at how we recycle our own dollars in the Black community, how we embrace with love and kindness, how we support each other, not just in local business but for each other,” T hompson said. “In gover nment, in our education system. We should be talking about these things.”

T hompson, who will be at the event, said she is looking forward to supporting the local vendors and small businesses which will be participating in the festivities

“Entrepreneurship and economic development is a big deal and how we get our homebased businesses or our small business to the next level, we should be highlighting that,” Thompson said. “I am excited for that.”

Celebrations for the 3rd Annual Juneteenth Festival will take place at Schroeder Park with free parking available on the west side of the Target Store in Broadview Village Square.

trepreneurship and investing. A family entertainment event will kick at 3 p.m. with performances Kells the Artist, Bobbi Ponder, Sean Black, D’Moment and others.

The events are free and open to the public, but pre-re gistration is encouraged.

For more information, visit www.JuneteenthIllinois.com

g. A ick off s by er, d

Broadv iew Mayor Katrina ompson, Broadview Clerk Kevin McGrier and village trustees look on as Broadv iew rst responders raise the Juneteenth ag above Broadv iew Village Hall in 2022.

National and local talent to perform at Juneteenth Village Fest

It Takes A Village and community par tners bring free celebration to Anna and Frederick Douglass Park

By FRANCIA GARCIA HERNANDEZ Staff Reporter

On June 18, North Lawndale residents will see the local Anna and Frederick Douglass Park, 1401 S. Sacramento Dr., become a space to celebrate freedom culture, family and tradition. For its second year, The Juneteenth Village Fest, org anized by It Takes A Village Family of Schools with support of several sponsors, brings performances, family-friendly fun and a celebration of culture for local residents.

“We want everybody to really think of this as a family reunion that we look forward to do in Douglass Park every single year,” said Nakisha Harris Hobbs, CEO of It Takes A Village Family of Schools

The lineup of performers includes national and local talent who span genres, from hip hop to gospel to R&B and drumming, so all family members can find something they’ ll enjoy.

“On the local talent side, I would really urge everybody to be there to see Bella Bahhs,” Harris Hobbs said. Bahhs is a local hip hop artist, activist and educator from the West Side of Chicago.

“She just really embodies the spirit and energy of this festival, in terms of us as Black people really appreciat-

ing our culture, lifting up our culture and also reco gnizing the responsibility that we have to always be acting in the best interest of our community,” she said.

All participating artists will bring amazing performances, including Angie Stone, Marsha Ambrosius, BJ

The Chicago Kid, Kindred Family Soul, DJ Wayne Williams, South Shore Drill Team, Jesse White Tumblers, DJ Marka Flava, Redd’s Angelz, A-List Dance Team, Darius Parker & Vee Armstrong, Soul Children, Spellbinder Magician, DJ Marco, Muntu Drummers & Dancers and Libations Kamau Rashid.

“Talib Kweli has been an underground hip hop artist for the last 25 to 30 years,” Harris Hobbs said. “He always makes music that is a reflection of the current condition and possibilities for Black people and communities of color.”

The festival’s location is also a significant part of this celebration. Two years ago, Village Leadership Academy students, one of the schools in It Takes A Village Family of Schools, campaigned to change the name of the park from one honoring a slaveholding family to that of renowned abolitionists, Anna & Frederick Douglass.

“This Juneteenth Festival is really for us not only to pay homage to our history but also to pay homage to Village Leadership Academy who led the campaign to rename the Anna and Frederick Douglass Park,” Harris Hobbs said. Village Leadership Academy students will also have a perfor mance at the event.

The festival includes several activities for children and youth, including a petting zoo, a carnival area, inflatables, a youth DJ, face painting, g ames and a magic show. Social

service providers will also be at the event to connect families to resources, empower residents through education and information and perform health screenings, among other activities. The event’s sponsors include State Re p. La Shawn K. Ford (8th), Ald. Monique Scott (24th), the Illinois Department of Commerce, Amazon and Riot Fest, among others.

“We’ re proud to be a part of a community-based team that really is organizing a festival in Douglass Park that is for the local residents of Douglass Park,” Harris Hobbs said, adding the festival was org anized to provide a highquality experience for community members.

Local vendors participated at last year’s Juneteenth Village Fest.

OF

Hip-hop artist Talib Kweli w ill per form at Douglass Park on June 18.

Forest Park’s pione ering Juneteenth Pool Party marks 14th year

Hoskins happy village embraced it from the get-go

By IGOR STUDENKOV Staff Reporter

When then-village commissioner Rory Hoskins launched the Juneteenth Pool Party in 2009, many Forest Parkers and west suburbanites in general had no idea what Juneteenth even was – but he said it was embraced pretty early on.

“A lot of the old families in Forest Park that didn’t necessarily know this tradition were very accepting,” Hoskins, now the mayor, said.

He grew up in Galveston, Texas, where on June 19, 1865, Union ar my general Gordon Granger announced that all those who had been enslaved were now free. In a 2021 documentary released by the Forest Park

Juneteenth Committee, the mayor recalled, growing up, he didn’t think much about the holiday. But after he moved away from Texas and started raising a family of his own, Hoskins realized it was something he wanted to share with his children.

He decided to hold the party at the Forest Park Aquatic Center, 7501 Harrison St., because public pools were some of the last public spaces to be integrated.

Hoskins recalled he got support from the Park District of Forest Park, Forest Park School District 91, Forest Park Bank officials and other elected officials, including fellow village commissioners. Cong. Danny Davis (D-7), who, having grown up in Arkansas, was familiar with the holiday, supported Hoskins bringing it to Forest Park.

“I think he was surprised to see it take root in Forest Park,” Hoskins said.

Since then, the pool party has become an annual tradition that only got inter rupted

in 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic. This year, the party took place on June 10 starting at 6:45 p.m. The party featured music and free hot dogs and chips.

Hoskins said he was proud the pool party was reco gnized as the longest-running Juneteenth celebration in the western suburbs. He reflected that it was something that he wanted everyone in Forest Park to

embrace and take part in.

“It appeals that the community really embraced this tradition, and I think it means something to kids in this community, and to the parents,” Hoskins said. “Kids from all backgrounds can take part in this tradition that may be new to the [west suburban] re gion, but an old tradition in the country. It’s very beautiful. Very special.”

YourPassion1st celebrated Juneteenth early this year. Last Saturday, the Oak Park-based nonprofit held its fourth annual “Let’s Grow Together Holistic Wellness and Juneteenth Festival” in Melrose Park

The free festival was attended by Mayor Rory Hoskins of Forest Park, who took a turn in the dunk tank, as did Ana

Garcia Doyle, director of One Earth Film Festival. Oak Park Village President came to enjoy the festivities. Those who went to the festival were treated to music, performances, exercise classes and meditation and yoga sessions, while kids exerted some energy in inflatable bounce houses

— Stacey Sheridan

Kids play in the pool dur ing the Forest Park Juneteenth Pool party at the Forest Park Aquatic Center in 2022.

PHOTO S BY TODD A. BANNOR

Organizers Chuck Carter, Joshua Easter, Chris omas, Kathleen Brennan, Marjorie Adam Clark, Michelle Major, Caitlin Ry ndak, Cody Cotton, James Turner & Julius Spates at the Let’s Grow Together Holistic Wellness & Juneteenth Festival.

Oak Park Juneteenth still a community event

Village’s involvement has not overtaken community organizers

By STACEY SHERIDAN Senior Reporter

For the past six years, Oak Park has had a Juneteenth celebration because of Anthony Clark and Juanta Griffin. The two remain committed to seeing Oak Park celebrate the event but this year is slightly different as the Village of Oak Park has taken a more direct role in helping to plan the parade and community cookout.

“We want the village to come in and take responsibility for it so that it can be sustainable,” Griffin told Wednesday Journal.

The important tradition of celebrating Juneteenth should be maintained annually but the responsibility of planning such a major event for the entire community can lead to burn out if left to only two primary organizers, according to Griffin. Clark declined to comment. Having municipal involvement increases access to resources, so the celebration can continue being free to

the community.

For the 2023 parade and cookout this Sunday, Griffin and Clark worked directly with Dr. Danielle Walker, the village’s diversity, equity and inclusion officer. The village is also having a flag raising ceremony Wednesday at village hall. Together, Griffin said, the three struck up a balance between community involvement and gover nment support

“We wanted it to be an inclusive process where community members are involved in the planning and feel like there’s some ownership,” said Griffin. “We wanted to keep that.”

It was also important that no one felt left out of the process, particularly those community members that have volunteered their time to Juneteenth planning and celebrations over the years.

Inclusivity extends beyond the planning of Juneteenth. Griffin was adamant that the celebration is not just for Black Americans but for all people.

“As a nation we celebrate freedom,” she

said. “This is for everyone.”

The parade steps off at 11 a.m., Saturday morning, from Longfellow Park near Jackson Boulevard and will march on through Ridgeland Avenue to Augusta Street. The community cookout begins at 5 p.m. in Taylor Park, 400 Division St

Oak Park Juneteenth

celebration sponsors:

Good Heart Work Smart Foundation

The Nova Collective Byline Bank

Race Conscious Dialogues

One Ear th Film Festival

Oak Park Climate Ac tion Network

Climate Ready Community Outreach

LifeSpan Counseling & Psychological Ser vices

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JUNETEENTH EVENT S

Here’s Growing Community Media most complete list of Juneteenth celebrations across the Greater West Side. If missed your event this year tell us at Park.com’s Pitch Us a Story feature.

AUSTIN

Front Porch Art Center celebration

The celebration will be held at Columbus Park. 500 S. Central Ave., on June 17 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. This fun, family-friendly event will feature music, food, dancing and a Juneteenth Art Exhibit, along with family art-making activities.

Trunk par ty for college-bound seniors

Graduating, college-bound seniors only. Must bring college acceptance letter. Party will be held at 304 N. Parkside Ave. on J une 19, noon to 5 p.m.

BROADVIE W

3rd Annual Festival of Freedom

Broadview is holding its 3rd annual Juneteenth celebration all weekend at Schroeder Park, 2600 S. 13th Ave. It will kick o on the evening of June 16 from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m., with the raising of the Juneteenth ag, followed by a community meetand-greet. The main event will take place on June 17 from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m., and on June 18 from noon to 9 p.m. The festival will feature music, food and local vendors, as well as cultural exhibits chronicling Black history and struggles. The festivities will wrap up with a Sunday reworks show.

EAST GARFIELD PARK Music and Culture Celebration

Now in its fourth year, the annual Music and Culture Celebration will be held at 345 Ar t Galler y, 345 N. Kedzie Ave., on June 18 from 3 p.m. to 7 p.m. The celebration will feature local music acts, performance by poet Poetry Soulchild, wine curated by P. Michelle, the Music in My Soul art exhibit and local vendors. $10 cover, all proceeds go to the ar t center

OA K PARK

Juneteenth Father ’s Day Festival

Organized by Chicago’s Welcome to Fatherhood and Oak Park ’s King’s Kidz [sic] Academy, the par ty will take place in Oak Park at 847 Madison St. on June 17 from 11 a.m. It will feature food and drinks, games for kids and adults and vendor tables.

Juneteenth parade and cookout

tions, and businesses. Festivities star t on June 16 at Gar eld Park Gold Dome, 100 N. Central Park, from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. for an invite- only Military Honors ceremony to honor veterans. Community members can nominate veterans to receive a special award. On June 17 and June 18, join cultural activities for families, workshops, live music and performances at Gar eld Park Music Cour t Circle from 12 p.m. to 8 p.m. On Sunday, there will be a Father ’s Day Grill O to celebrate Father ’s Day.

FOREST PARK

Liberated: A Juneteenth Celebration

I Am Black Ar t organization will be at Forest Park Public Librar y’s Austin room, 7555 Jackson Blvd., on June 17 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. The event will feature a writing circle, children’s books, arts and crafts, and re ec tion/open mic segment towards the end of the program. Oak Park ’s Chicago Chicken and Wa es will provide food, and there will be local vendors.

HILLSIDE

Juneteenth & Father ’s Day Festival

Illinois House Speaker Emanuel “Chris” Welch is holding his annual Juneteenth and Father ’s Day Festi-

MAY WOOD

Juneteenth celebration and honorary street designation

Join the honorary street designation ceremony in honor of the late Mrs. Nor thica Hillery Stone, former CEO of the nonpro t Operation Uplift, on June 17, at 1 p.m., followed by a family-friendly Juneteenth celebration. The ceremony is taking place at Operation Uplift, at the intersection of S. 5th Ave. and St. Charles Road. The annual Juneteenth celebration features food, music and activities for all ages.

NORTH LAWNDALE

Celebrate Juneteenth with UCAN

Held at UCAN campus, 3605 W. Filmore St., on June 17 from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., this year ’s celebration will feature vendors from the Black Wall Street on Roosevelt summer market, as well as performers, games, and food.

Juneteenth Freedom Party

Organized by Light Up Lawndale and sponsored by the Chicago Histor y Museum, the par ty will take place on June 19 from 12 p.m. to 3 p.m. at Douglass Park. The family-friendly celebration will feature music, fun and activities.

oin the Village of Oak Park in celebrating Juneteenth with a ceremonial ag raising, parade and community ookout. Come to the courtyard of Oak Park Village Hall, 123 Madison St., at 6 p.m., June 14, for the ag raising. he celebration continues at 11 a.m., June 18 with the annual parade, which steps o from Longfellow Park near Jackson Boulevard and then on to Ridgeland Avenue to Augusta Street. Following the parade, stop by the cookout at 5 p.m. in Taylor Park, 400 Division St.

RIVER FOREST

Flag raising ceremony

River Forest marked Juneteenth with a ag raising ceremony on June 12. River Forest Public Librar y, 735 Lathrop Ave. Check out the Juneteenth traveling museum inside the librar y.

VIRTUAL

A Conversation on Health Equity with Dr. Ngozi Ezike

United Way of Chicago is holding a vir tual conversation with Dr. Ngozi Ezike on June 19 from 9 a.m. to 10 a.m. Ezike is the rst Black woman president and CEO of Sinai Chicago hospital system and immediate past director of the Illinois Department of Public Health, where she helped the entire state navigate COVID-19. Ezike will re ect on her experiences and o er paths towards greater health equity for all Chicago neighborhoods. Visit https://liveunitedchicago. org/ to register for login information.

Compiled by Francia Garcia Hernandez, Amaris Rodriguez, Stacey Sheridan and Igor Studenkov

Laramie Bank project sheds one partner but Housing Center promises progress

Real estate developer put in receivership. New par tner being vetted

By IGOR STUDENKOV and MELODY MERCADO Austin Weekly News and Block Club Chica go

The effective shuttering of Heartland Housing, Heartland Alliance’s affordable housing unit, will slow down, but not stop, the redevelopment of the historic Laramie State Bank property, 5200 W. Chicago Ave., said Athena Williams, executive director of the Oak Park Regional Housing Center, a lead partner on the INVEST South/West project.

In 2021, the Austin United development team spearheaded by Williams’ organization and Heartland Alliance, a long-time Chicago immigrant assistance and anti-poverty organization, was picked as the winning bidder for the Laramie State Bank in Austin under the city’s INVEST South/West Program. That development broke ground in November with $47.7 million in city funds pledged to the conversion. But Heartland Housing ran into financial trouble during the pandemic, and in late May, the Cook County Circuit Court appointed Habitat Company as a receiver, taking over management of its affordable housing buildings.

Williams told this newspaper that the Austin United development team is currently working to choose another real estate development firm, and they expect to make a final selection by June 24. The Housing Center still hopes to begin construction this fall, and they expect it to finish up within another 18 months

Austin United plans to turn the historic bank building into office space, retail and a bank branch, and build a brand-new 78-unit, six-story apartment building with a public plaza on vacant land west of the bank. Williams said that they will build the housing

first and begin renovating the bank buildin around 3 to 4 months later.

On May 11, the city of Chicago filed a motion in Cook County Circuit Court to appoint a receiver for Heartland Housing’s 14 affordable housing properties across the city, and a judge granted the motion four days later. That effectively took day-to-day control of those buildings from Heartland Housing and turned it over to The Habitat Company, a prominent Chicago real estate firm that manages a wide range of properties, from public housing to high-rent luxury buildings

A receiver is a court-appointed officer that acts as a neutral party to manage assets or properties when they are not being properly maintained or fall into legal or financial trouble. In its motion asking the court to appoint a receiver for the Heartland buildings, the city cited unpaid utility and trash bills, building code violations and the expected loss of its property insurance.

The lapse in insurance coverage could potentially impact low-income tenants by putting government subsidies at risk, the city stated in court filings. Those subsidies help keep rents affordable for the tenants in more than 800 units in those buildings.

“Heartland Housing is no longer able to manage its Chicago properties … as of May 31, 2023,” the city’s motion said.

Heartland Housing’s properties included Mae Suites, 148 N. Mayfield Ave. in Austin, and two North Lawndale apartment buildings at 1235 S. Sawyer Ave. and 1251 S. Sawyer Ave.

In a written statement, Ed Stellon, Heartland Alliance’s chief external affairs officer, stated that economic conditions coming out of the pandemic made it difficult for the agency to sustain the properties

“During the pandemic, federal mandates limited our ability to pursue rent collection and at the same time, rising inflation dramatically escalated our operating costs,” he stated. “We’ve also experienced the same staffing crisis as everyone else. In the end, de-

spite our best efforts, these challenges proved too much for Heartland Housing to overcome financially.”

Heartland Alliance’s plan to sell Heartland Housing didn’t pan out, leading to its properties being placed in receivership, Stellon said.

Williams said she wasn’t aware of Heartland’s issues until January, shortly after Austin United got a building permit for the Laramie Bank project. Austin United was doing some due diligence, and city officials started to express concerns about Heartland Housing’s financial status and its impact on the Laramie Bank project, according to emails obtained by Block Club Chicago.

In an email to a city De partment of Housing official, Earl Chase, executive director of Heartland Housing, disclosed that his agency was parting ways with Heartland Alliance, the organization’s sole financial backer. Heartland Housing was in the process of being purchased by another “not-forprofit affordable housing provider,” Chase wrote.

“Subject to all required consents from lenders, partners, and other parties, closing is projected to take place later this year,” he added.

Chase’s message was shared with other top city officials, including Maurice Cox, commissioner of the Department of Planning and Development, and Samir Mayekar, then a deputy mayor overseeing economic development. A city lawyer said that Heartland’s shaky status could threaten the financing for the bank project.

“The entire deal’s credit underwriting is directly implicated with this news,” said Adam Walker, assistant corporation coun-

sel for the city.

In a statement, officials with the city’s Department of Planning and Development said a changed partnership structure for the Laramie Bank project is under review “with Heartland Housing being re placed by an experienced residential developer.”

“Partnership details are expected to be finalized for a City Council introduction this summer,” officials said.

Ald. Emma Mitts (37th), whose ward includes the Laramie Bank site and who has been supportive of Austin United’s plans, said she still has confidence in the project.

“I am a firm believer in working with our city and community partners to assist people and build pathways that ensure every Chicagoan has affordable housing information, convenient retail resources, and diverse business opportunities to help them generate economic sustainability and generational wealth for the future,” she said.

Williams described the situation as a small stumbling block.

“We are moving forward. Nothing is stopping this train,” she said, adding that they had to “pause it for a while” as Heartland tried to sell its housing unit and went through the court process.

Williams said that, once the new real estate developer is selected, it shouldn’t take long for the process to restart again.

“They’d just to have to go through underwriting with the city and the lenders, and they’d have to go through 2 to 6 weeks,” she said. “I’m a believer that when there’s a will, there’s a way. The city has been very supportive. I’m now looking at the new partner and I’m hoping for continued support in the community and support from the funders.”

PROVIDED

Rendering for the proposed redevelopment of the Laramie State Bank

YOUTH SPORTS Unifying force

from page 1

tions and churches and the Chicago Police Department to provide opportunities for youth to participate in free baseball, basketball and archery. The goal of the league is not only to provide safe spaces for youth

LIBRARY North Avenue location

from page 1

agreed to set aside space on the first floor which the library district would purchase, condo-style, and build out into a library. But negotiations have stalled as the two sides are trying to settle on a purchase price.

Last week, Galewood Neighbors and The North Avenue District launched a petition urging the city to get back on track. Galewood Neighbors president Steve Green told this newspaper that Jakovljevic suggested that a show of support from the community might help. While the developer is still interested in having the library in his building, there is only so long he can live with the indecision before deciding to lease or sell the space to someone else.

At 12,000 square feet, the new space would be a significant improvement over

on the West Side, but also to help them lear n valuable skills through sports

On Saturday, the baseball teams of kids in grades 3 through 8, posed at the stairwell of the Garfield Park Golden Dome to celebrate the start of the fifth season of the Chicago Westside Police & Youth Sports Conference. This season, they will be playing baseball in five West Side parks, including Columbus Park, Garfield Park, Moore Park, La Follette Park and Franklin Park Police officers from four districts – the 10th, 11th, 15th and 25th – par-

the 400-square-foot room in the park district fieldhouse, which was closed for much of the pandemic simply because its dimensions made social distancing impossible. Jakovljevic deliberately built out the library space to comply with the code requirements for a branch library. In 2019, State Rep. Camille Lilly (78th) and now-State Sen. President Don Harmon (39th) put $600,000 for either building a new Galewood library or building out/renovating the existing building. The deadline to spend that money has been pushed back several times since then. While Ald. Chris Taliaferro (29th), whose ward includes all of Galewood, has been supportive of the project, the library district insisted the U.S. Bank building was just one of the several possible sites. In the past, they also brought up the issue of funding the larger library’s operations The most recent sticking point hinges on the value of the space.

During his May 27 community meeting, Taliaferro said the city sent an appraiser, and the price the appraiser came up with

ticipate as coaches for the baseball teams, in partnership with a church and non-profit volunteer who also serve as coaches and mentors for youth.

Chicago Westside Sports was founded in 2018 by Lt. Jer maine Harris of the Chicago Police Department, Pastor Steve Epting of Hope Community Church and Stephanie Marquardt, executive director of City of Refuge Chicago.

Collaboration is at the center of the community volunteers and young sports players

was too low for Jakovljevic. After some back and forth, the library system agreed the price was probably too low, so it’s sending a different appraiser. Taliaferro said that this may take another “3 to 4 months.”

He subsequently told this newspaper that, as of June 7, there hasn’t been any progress.

In a recent interview, Green said that Jakovljevic suggested that a petition showing that the community “still wants the library” wouldn’t hurt. They decided to time it until after the election was over and Johnson had a few weeks to settle in. But the new mayor’s approval, Green said, was vital for the project to get any traction.

Chicago’s library system is governed by a board of directors appointed by Chicago mayors. Furthermore, the library system works with the city on its capital projects, since it doesn’t have its own capital budget.

“It’s gone on for over 10 years, and left a lot of people frustrated, because Galewood residents wanted their own library,” Green said. “It seems like the closest we’ve been in a long time, there’s actually a place for

experience, helping all community members work together in areas that have historically experienced high-crime and disinvestment in youth.

“The ‘three-legged stool’ model at Chicago Westside Sports is a true example of an allhands-on-deck approach,” the police department’s Harris said in a social media post.

Under this model, all parties -- churches, nonprofits and police -- work together to bring positive, lasting change for West Side youth.

it, the developer actually designed that first floor especially for the library, it’s perfect, it’s ready to go, it’s ready to be built out. So, to be so close and to have it fall through would’ve been very disappointing. We felt [the petition] would help to make a positive statement, to reinforce that people want a library.”

Judith Alexander of the North Avenue District said her organization ag reed to help with the petition because they might be able to reach people Galewood Neighbors can’t.

“A library has never been more wanted anywhere than in Galewood,” she said. “They need a real library, and it will be used, absolutely no doubt about that. And the North Avenue location is absolutely a good one, because of the convenience. It’s on a couple of bus lines [CTA Route 72/ North Avenue and Pace route 311], and there’s ample parking.”

To sign the petition, go to https://for ms. gle/EAZygee v882VQUJN8

O cer Sara Lozada (above), Chicago PD, pictured hugging youth athlete. Kids (right) waiting in line for a new pair of shoes.

PUBLIC NOTICE

PUBLIC

NOTICE

NOTICE

INVITATION TO BID TO METROPOLITAN WATER RECLAMATION DISTRICT OF GREATER CHICAGO

Sealed proposals, endorsed as above, will be submitted back to the District via an electronic upload to the Bonfire Portal only, from the date of the Notice for Request for Proposals, up to 11:00 A.M. (Chicago time), on the proposal due date.

CONTRACT 23-665-13

LANDSCAPE MAINTENANCE AT VARIOUS SERVICE AREAS (RE-BID)

Group A:

Estimated Cost: $ 600,000.00

Group B:

Estimated Cost: $ 375,000.00

Group C:

Estimated Cost: $ 225,000.00

Group D:

Estimated Cost: $ 138,000.00

Total Estimated Cost:

$ 1,338,000.00

Total Bid Deposit: None

Bid Opening: July 11, 2023

Voluntary Technical Pre-Bid Conference via ZOOM: Thursday, June 22, 2023 at 10:00 am CST.

Compliance with the District’s

Affirmative Action Ordinance

Revised Appendix D, Appendix V, Appendix C, and the Multi Project Labor Agreement are required on this Contract.

***************

The above is an abbreviated version of the Notice-Invitation to Bid. A full version which includes a brief description of the project and/or service can be found on the District’s website, www.mwrd. org; the path is as follows: Doing

Business > Procurement and Materials Management> Contract Announcements. Specifications, proposal forms and/or plans may be obtained from the Department of Procurement and Materials Management by downloading online from the District’s website at www.mwrd.org (Doing Business > Procurement & Materials Management > Contract Announcements). No fee is required for the Contract Documents. Any questions regarding the downloading of the Contract Document should be directed to email: con‑ tractdesk@mwrd.org or call 312‑751‑6643

All Contracts for the Construction of Public Works are subject to the Illinois Prevailing Wage Act (820 ILCS 130/1-et.seq.), where it is stated in the Invitation to Bid Page.

The Metropolitan Water Reclamation District of Greater Chicago reserves the right to reject any or all Proposals if deemed in the public’s best interest.

Metropolitan Water Reclamation District

By Darlene A. LoCascio, Director of Procurement and Materials Management

Published in Austin Weekly News June 14, 2023

REAL ESTATE FOR SALE

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF COOK COUNTY, ILLINOIS COUNTY DEPARTMENTCHANCERY DIVISION

WILMINGTON SAVINGS FUND SOCIETY, FSB, AS TRUSTEE OF STANWICH MORTGAGE LOAN TRUST I

Plaintiff, -v.UNKNOWN HEIRS AND LEGATEES OF LUCILLE REED, A/K/A CLUCILLIE REED, DECEASED, WILLIAM BUTCHER, SPECIAL REPRESENTATIVE OF LUCILLE

REED, DECEASED, CHARLOTTE BRUCE A/K/A CHARLOTTE REEDBRUCE, TONYA REED, UNKNOWN HEIRS AND LEGATEES OF HENRY ANTHONY PARKER, UNKNOWN OWNERS AND NONRECORD CLAIMANTS

Defendants

2019 CH 12175

1306 NORTH MAPLEWOOD CHICAGO, IL 60622

NOTICE OF SALE

PUBLIC NOTICE IS HEREBY

GIVEN that pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale entered in the above cause on April 11, 2023, an agent for The Judicial Sales Corporation, will at 10:30 AM on July 13, 2023, 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 1306 NORTH MAPLEWOOD, CHICAGO, IL 60622

Property Index No. 16-01-218-041-

0000

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, in certified funds/or wire transfer, is due within twenty-four (24) hours. 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. 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

REAL ESTATE FOR SALE

FRONTAGE ROAD, SUITE 100, BURR RIDGE, IL, 60527 (630) 7949876

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. 14-22-06098

Attorney ARDC No. 00468002

Attorney Code. 21762

Case Number: 2019 CH 12175

TJSC#: 43-1928

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 # 2019 CH 12175

I3221960

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF COOK COUNTY, ILLINOIS COUNTY DEPARTMENTCHANCERY DIVISION REVERSE MORTGAGE FUNDING LLC Plaintiff,

-v.-

TRACIE MCCALL, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA - SECRETARY OF HOUSING AND URBAN DEVELOPMENT, CITY OF CHICAGO, ILLINOIS HOUSING DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY, UNKNOWN OWNERS AND NONRECORD CLAIMANTS, UNKNOWN HEIRS AND LEGATEES OF LAUREEN MCCALL, AMIR MOHABBAT, AS SPECIAL REPRESENTATIVE FOR LAUREEN MCCALL (DECEASED)

Defendants 2022 CH 05741 234 N MASON AVENUE CHICAGO, IL 60644

NOTICE OF SALE

PUBLIC NOTICE IS HEREBY

GIVEN that pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale entered in the above cause on April 10, 2023, an agent for The Judicial Sales Corporation, will at 10:30 AM on July 12, 2023, 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 234 N MASON AVENUE, CHICAGO, IL 60644

Property Index No. 16-08-406-0160000

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, in certified funds/or wire transfer, is due within twenty-four (24) hours. 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 (driv-

er’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) 7949876 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. 14-22-04336

Attorney ARDC No. 00468002

Attorney Code. 21762

Case Number: 2022 CH 05741

TJSC#: 43-1527

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 # 2022 CH 05741 I3221862

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF COOK COUNTY, ILLINOIS COUNTY DEPARTMENTCHANCERY DIVISION US BANK NATIONAL ASSOCIATION NOT IN ITS INDIVIDUAL CAPACITY BUT SOLELY AS INDENTURE TRUSTEE FOR THE HOLDERS OF THE CIM TRUST 2020-R2, MORTGAGE BACKED NOTES SERIES 2020-R2

Plaintiff, vs. ROMONA DE LA GARZA AKA RAMONA DE LA GARZA; UNKNOWN OWNERS GENERALLY AND NONRECORD CLAIMANTS; Defendants, 22 CH 11471 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 Tuesday, July 11, 2023 at the hour of 11 a.m. in their office at 120 West Madison Street, Suite 718A, Chicago,

ESTATE FOR SALE

Illinois, sell at public auction to the highest bidder for cash, as set forth below, the following described mortgaged real estate:

P.I.N. 16-26-424-044-0000.

Commonly known as 3050 S Drake Ave, Chicago, IL 60623.

The mortgaged real estate is improved with a single family residence. If the subject mortgaged real estate is a unit of a common interest community, the purchaser of the unit other than a mortgagee shall pay the assessments required by subsection (g-1) of Section 18.5 of the Condominium Property Act. 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. Matthew C. Abad at Plaintiff’s Attorney, Kluever Law Group, 225 West Washington Street, Chicago, Illinois 60606. (312) 236-0077. SPS001737-22FC1 INTERCOUNTY JUDICIAL SALES CORPORATION intercountyjudicialsales.com

I3221626

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF COOK COUNTY, ILLINOIS COUNTY DEPARTMENTCHANCERY DIVISION MORTGAGE ASSETS

MANAGEMENT, LLC F/K/A REVERSE MORTGAGE SOLUTIONS, INC.

Plaintiff, -v.-

GEORGIA MAE ELLIS, UNITED STATES OF AMERICASECRETARY OF HOUSING AND URBAN DEVELOPMENT, ILLINOIS HOUSING DEVELOPMENT

AUTHORITY, STATE OF ILLINOIS

Defendants

2021 CH 04050 2629 W GLADYS AVE CHICAGO, IL 60612

NOTICE OF SALE

PUBLIC NOTICE IS HEREBY

GIVEN that pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale entered in the above cause on June 3, 2022, an agent for The Judicial Sales Corporation, will at 10:30 AM on July 20, 2023, 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 2629 W GLADYS AVE, CHICAGO, IL 60612

Property Index No. 16-13-224-0120000

The real estate is improved with a multi-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, in certified funds/or wire transfer, is due within twenty-four (24) hours. 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

REAL ESTATE FOR SALE

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. 14-21-00797

Attorney ARDC No. 00468002

Attorney Code. 21762

Case Number: 2021 CH 04050

TJSC#: 43-2308

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 # 2021 CH 04050

I3222426

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF COOK COUNTY, ILLINOIS COUNTY DEPARTMENT -

CHANCERY DIVISION

DEUTSCHE BANK TRUST

COMPANY AMERICAS F/K/A

BANKERS TRUST COMPANY, AS TRUSTEE FOR SAXON ASSET

SECURITIES TRUST 2000-4, MORTGAGE LOAN ASSET BACKED

CERTIFICATES, SERIES 2000-4

Plaintiff, -v.-

FRANCIS JULIEN, ETHEL JULIEN

A/K/A ETHEL HOLLOWAY

Defendants

REAL ESTATE FOR SALE

PUBLIC NOTICE IS HEREBY

GIVEN that pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale entered in the above cause on December 12, 2019, an agent for The Judicial Sales Corporation, will at 10:30 AM on July 12, 2023, 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 1501 N. PARKSIDE AVENUE, CHICAGO, IL 60651

Property Index No. 16-05-207-0170000

The real estate is improved with a single family residence.

The judgment amount was $166,764.59.

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, in certified funds/or wire transfer, is due within twenty-four (24) hours. 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.

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

REAL ESTATE FOR SALE REAL ESTATE FOR SALE

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, contact Alexander Potestivo, POTESTIVO & ASSOCIATES, P.C. Plaintiff’s Attorneys, 223 WEST JACKSON BLVD, STE 610, Chicago, IL, 60606 (312) 263-0003. Please refer to file number 112866. 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.

POTESTIVO & ASSOCIATES, P.C.

223 WEST JACKSON BLVD, STE 610 Chicago IL, 60606

312-263-0003

E-Mail: ilpleadings@potestivolaw.com

Attorney File No. 112866

Attorney Code. 43932

Case Number: 18 CH 16085

TJSC#: 43-60

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.

REAL ESTATE FOR SALE

EQUAL HOUSING OPPORTUNITY

All real estate advertising in this newspaper is subject to the Fair Housing Act, which makes it illegal to advertise any preference, limitation or discrimination based on age, race, color, religion, sex, handicap, familial status or national origin, or intention to make any such preferences, limitations or discrimination.

The Illinois Human Rights Act prohibits discrimination in the sale, rental or advertising of real estate based on factors in addition to those protected under federal law. This newspaper will not knowingly accept any advertising for real estate which is in violation of the law. All persons are hereby informed that all dwellings advertised are available on an equal opportunity basis.

Restrictions or prohibitions of pets do not apply to service animals. To complain of discrimination, call HUD toll free at:

1-800-669-9777.

SHE SNORES MORE THAN I DO, BUT I STILL LOVE MY HUMAN.

BUT I STILL LOVE MY HUMAN.

SHE SNORES MORE THAN I DO, BUT I STILL LOVE MY HUMAN.

SHE SNORES MORE THAN I DO, BUT I STILL LOVE MY HUMAN.

SHE SNORES MORE THAN I DO, BUT I STILL LOVE MY HUMAN.

SHE SNORES MORE THAN I DO, BUT I STILL LOVE MY HUMAN.

— BANDIT adopted 11-26-09

— BANDIT adopted 11-26-09

— BANDIT adopted 11-26-09

— BANDIT adopted 11-26-09

SHE SNORES MORE THAN I DO, BUT I STILL LOVE MY HUMAN.

SHE SNORES MORE THAN I DO, BUT I STILL LOVE MY HUMAN.

SHE SNORES MORE THAN I DO, BUT I STILL LOVE MY HUMAN.

— BANDIT adopted 11-26-09

— BANDIT adopted 11-26-09

— BANDIT adopted 11-26-09

— BANDIT adopted 11-26-09

— BANDIT adopted 11-26-09

June 14, 2023

AU S TIN FORWARD. TOGETHER. 2023 QUARTER 2

THE AU S TIN COMMUNITY PUBLISHED ITS FIRST QU ALITY-OF-LIFE PLAN CALLED AU STIN FO RWARD. TOGETHER. (AFT) IN 2018. THIS QU ARTERLY PUBLICATION DESCRIBES HOW AU S TIN COMING TOGETHER (ACT) IS SUPPORTING THE C OMMUNITY TO IMPLEMENT AFT AND OTHER EFF OR TS .

UNITING AU STIN

How redeveloping Central Avenue will connect Austin neighborhoods

THE AVENUE TO SUC CES S PA GE 3 | CENTRAL AVENUE: CONNECTING YOU TO AU S TIN’S BES T PA GE 4 INITIAL REC OMMENDATIONS FOR CENTRAL AVENUE PA GE 7

Special thanks to these Austin Forward. Together. quality-of-life plan legacy investors:

Since 2010, Austin Coming Together (ACT) has facilitated collaboration to improve education and economic development outcomes in Chicago’s Austin neighborhood. Today, we serve a network of 50+ organizations committed to improving the quality of life in the Austin community. Our strategic plan is called Thrive 2025 and outlines how we will mobilize our resources to achieve four impact goals by the year 2025: Quality Early Learning, Safe Neighborhoods, Living Wage Careers, and Stable Housing Markets.

ACT BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Officers

CHAIR

Larry Williams

Broker, State Farm Insurance

SECRETARY

Bradly Johnson

Chief Community Officer, BUILD Inc.

TREASURER

LaDarius Curtis

Senior Director of Community Engagement & Health, West Side United

ACT STAFF

Leadership

Darnell Shields

Executive Director

Andrew Born

Strategic Advisor

Operations

Deirdre Bates*

Director of Operations

EXECUTIVE DIRECT OR Darnell Shields Austin Coming Together

Directors

Sharon Morgan Director of Graduate Support & Community Outreach, Catalyst Schools

Reverend Reginald E. Bachus Pastor, Friendship Baptist Church

Tenisha Jones

Vice President of Community & Government Engagement, Catholic Charities

Dearra Williams

Executive Operations Lead/ Assistant to the CEO

Strategic Initiatives

Sandra Diaz*

Service Delivery Enhancement Manager, Austin Community Hub

Janelle Martin

Austin Community Hub Specialist

ACT MEMBER ORGANIZATIONS

A House in Austin

Academy of Scholastic Achievement

Austin Childcare Providers

Network

Austin Community Family Center

Austin Weekly News (Growing Community Media)

Be Strong Families

Beat the Streets Chicago

Bethel New Life

Reginald Little

Business Development Specialist, Great Lakes Credit Union

Dawn Ferencak

Senior Marketing Strategist, Chicago Parent

Deborah Williams-Thurmond

Community Outreach & Engagement Specialist, Habilitative Systems, Inc.

Ruth Kimble

Founder & CEO, Austin Childcare Providers Network

Jerrod Williams

Law Clerk, Illinois Appellate Court

Max Komnenich

Associate Principal, Lamar Johnson Collaborative

In Memoriam

BOARD OF DIRECT ORS

Jack Macnamara

1937–2020

FOUNDING BOARD CHAIR

Mildred Wiley

1955–2019

Beyond Hunger

BUILD Inc.

By The Hand Club For Kids

Cara

Catholic Charities

Chicago Austin Youth Travel Adventures

Chicago Community Loan Fund

City of Refuge

Defy Ventures Illinois

Erikson Institute

Emone Moore Engagement Coordinator, Austin Community Hub

Dollie Sherman Engagement Specialist, Austin Community Hub

JeVon D. Moore*

Planning & Investment Manager, Austin Forward. Together.

Ethan Ramsay

Lead Organizer, Austin Forward. Together.

Friends of the Children

Friendship Community Development Corp. of Austin

Greater West Town Community

Development Project

Housing Forward

i.c. stars

IFF

Institute for Nonviolence

Chicago

Grace Cooper

Project Specialist, Austin Forward. Together.

Natalie Goodin

Micro Market Recovery

Program Coordinator

Nicholas Galassini

Micro Market Recovery

Program Intern

Jane Addams Resource Corporation

Kids First Chicago

KRA Westside American Job Center

Learning Edge Tutoring (fka Cluster Tutoring)

Legal Aid Chicago (fka LAF)

Manufacturing Renaissance

Mary Shyrese Daycare

Maryville Academy

Mercy Housing Lakefront New Moms

Marketing & Development

Alicia Plomin*

Director of Marketing & Development

Scott Prywitch

Marketing & Development Coordinator

*Also part of the ACT Leadership Team

OAI, Inc.

Oak Park Regional Housing Center

Open Books

PCC Community Wellness Center

Project Exploration

Renaissance Social Services, Inc.

Sarah’s Inn

South Austin Neighborhood Association

St. Joseph Services

St. Leonard’s Ministries

Stone Community Development Corporation

The Catalyst Schools

The Journey Forward

The North Avenue District, Inc.

Towers of Excellence

UIC Jane Addams College of Social Work

VOCEL

Westside Health Authority

West Side Forward

Worldvision

Youth Guidance

The Avenue to Success: A key focal project driven by the community

By Darnell Shields Executive Director, Austin Coming Together

Central Avenue represents a unifying and supportive spine through Austin. It connects the neighborhoods and districts that together make up our community, from Galewood Crossing in the north, through shopping near Midway Park and Austin’s historic downtown, past Columbus Park, and on to The Island in the south. Some of these neighborhood areas appear on o cial city maps and some do not, but all are important to us.

When discussing Austin’s main thoroughfares, many people think of our east-west corridors: Madison and Lake Streets, Chicago, and North Avenues, and the Eisenhower Expressway. These have become paths that often help people navigate through Austin on their way to Oak Park or the Loop, instead of encouraging them to spend time in our community. However, local leaders are working to revitalize Austin’s main corridors and renew them as vibrant commercial districts.

Despite being a unifier of Austin, Central Avenue currently does not illustrate a picture of an inviting cityscape. Empty storefronts, underutilized buildings, and a prominent lack of grocery stores and retail businesses are our present reality. But for all that Central Avenue doesn’t have, it is important to remember what it does have. Between

Harambee Community Garden, Austin Town Hall, and the Frank Lloyd Wright House, Central Avenue traverses the heart of Austin and has vast potential to be more than a simple pass-through.

We propose that Central Avenue can complement existing e orts in the community by becoming Austin’s Main Street, connecting some of our community’s strongest assets. A healthy Central Avenue Corridor consistently branded from the north to the south will support and embody a thriving and united Austin.

The Central Avenue Corridor is a key project outlined in the Austin Forward. Together. (AFT) quality-of-life plan and has the ability to address four of its seven issue areas:

COMMUNITY NARRATIVE

Rewriting the community narrative will happen by revitalizing the image and spirit of Austin. By building on what Austin already has—its history, its people, and its energy— we can ensure that our community is a place where everyone can thrive and enjoy all that our city has to o er.

ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT

Strengthening new and existing local businesses, entrepreneurs, and the workforce, while also attracting new investment will build a stronger, more dynamic local economy, a critical piece of a thriving community.

HOUSING

Reimagining housing in a way that is supportive of new commercial development without displacement of existing residents will be accomplished by incorporating community engagement so that those who

live, work, or have a historic connection to Austin and its physical spaces are able to participate in its rebirth.

PUBLIC SAFETY

The Central Avenue Corridor will help reclaim the physical space so residents can feel a stronger attraction to their streets, and an improved sense of safety and community that has long been sought after.

Read specific recommendations made

In April, ACT sta met with the Urban Land Institute of Chicago and Chicago Metropolitan Agency for Planning to facilitate conversations with Austin stakeholders to discuss recommendations for revitalizing the Central Avenue Corridor

Central Avenue: Connecting you to Austin’s best

As the connecting spine of Austin, the Central Avenue Corridor will integrate the other commercial corridors throughout the community and hopefully serve as something more than a main thoroughfare. These corridors include the Soul City Corridor along Chicago Avenue, the Arts, Culture, and Town Center along Lake Street, the Anchor for Commercial and Economic Revitalization along Madison Street, and the Austin Gateway at Interstate 29 0.

LOCAL SHOPPING CORRIDOR Soul City on Chicago Avenue

The Soul City Corridor will revitalize a 1.6-milelong stretch along Chicago Avenue in the Austin community and focuses on guiding the development of underutilized land. Its main goals are to promote Black culture, arts, and entertainment, as well as heighten economic development, job creation, and new development that serves neighborhood residents. Many nearby community assets, such as Forty Acres Fresh Market, Laramie State Bank, many thriving businesses, and available CTA options will help to enhance the unifying character of the Central Avenue project. The Austin African-American Business Networking Association (AAABNA) is leading the charge in the Soul City Corridor Noted for its more intimate, small business ecosystem, Soul City aims to attract people from Central Avenue with a variety of local shopping options.

ARTS, CULTURE, AND TOWN CENTER Lake Street

With what is likely the central-most location, the Arts, Culture, and Town Center corridor at Lake and Central will help illuminate many of the historic landmarks, artistic riches, green spaces, and architectural marvels that have long stood in the community. Namely, Austin Town Hall Park (which is the only Town Hall in the City and has been a youth-led safe zone), the Austin Branch Chicago Public Library, Austin High School, Fraternite Notre Dame Church, and Levin (John) Park are on that list. And with the Green Line train running along Lake Street, commuters that pass by get the chance to see what’s happening in Austin.

Austin Town Hall Park and Cultural Center at 5610 W. Lake St. sits on 3.69 acres and o ers outdoor basketball courts, an auditorium, fitness/dance studio, programming through the Park District, and more. It is also the site of the Austin Town Hall City Market, an outdoor farmers market accepting Snap/Link that runs on Thursdays in June through October

Madison Street

The location at Madison and Central is an especially unique piece of the Central Avenue Corridor and the revitalization of the Austin community as a whole. Nearby assets like the Kehrein Center for the Arts, the Walser House designed by Frank Lloyd Wright, Columbus Park, and countless businesses help amplify the many commercial and economic development opportunities surrounding the area. Yet compared to other community corridors like Soul City, Madison Street is notable for a wider range of commercial activity. Larger businesses, big box stores, and other commercial endeavors are what can attract people from Central Avenue. Beyond that, the intersection of Madison and Central is home to one of the most prominent development projects in the community: The ASPIRE Center for Workforce Innovation. The Center will repurpose the former Emmet Elementary School into an anchor for commercial revitalization and a destination for top-notch workforce training. An inspiring feat of community organizing, the Center was largely made possible by the firm commitment of Austin residents who stepped up and donated their own money to the cause. Anticipated to open in 2024, the Aspire Center will represent a deep transformation in Austin.

THE AUSTIN GATEWAY Interstate 290

When driving into Austin from Interstate 290, enue Corridor will serve an important role as the Austin Gateway. With nearby assets such as Columbus Park, Loretto Hospital, and CTA Blue Line, the gateway aims welcome people into the neighborhood as nture up Central Avenue and connect the other destinations.

A rendering of the Aspire Center for Workforce Innovation at the corner of Central and Madison, which will house a variety of workforce training programs and resources.

Columbus Park is one of Austin’s most prominent features with its beautiful green spaces, lagoon, playing fields, playgrounds, gardens, golf course, and more.

By serving as the main vein of Austin, we hope Central Ave maximizes connectivity all throughout our community, especially with the work of the other community projects in motion

MALCOLM CRAWFORD, AUSTIN AFRICAN AMERIC AN BUSINESS NETWORKING ASSOCIATION

Economic Development

Plan Leaders

Community Narrative

TASK FORCE CHAIRS

Briana Shields

Briana Janeé Arts

Kenneth Varner Healthy Schools

Campaign

Dearra Williams

Austin Coming Together

Education

TASK FORCE CHAIRS

Housing

TASK FORCE CHAIRS

Public Safety

TASK FORCE CHAIRS

Youth Empowerment

Civic Engagement

S TRATE GY LEAD S

Lasondra Kern

Community Resident

Suzanne McBride

Austin Talks

Michael Romain

Community Stakeholder

Alicia Plomin

Austin Coming Together

Cindy Gray

Schneider

Spaces-n-Places

Rosondunnii

Marshall

Artesian Collaborative

Jai Jones

PSPC, The Chicago

Community Trust and Community Member

TASK FORCE CHAIRS

Jerrod Williams

South Austin

Neighborhood Association

Heather Sattler

Community Development Consultant

S TRATE GY LEAD S

Erica Staley

Manufacturing Renaissance

Emily Peters

Jane Addams Resource Corporation

Tina Augustus Chicago West Side Chamber of Commerce

Roxanne Charles West Side Forward

Melissa O’Dell

Defy Ventures

Fanya Berry

Community Resident

Crystal Bell

Ella Flagg Young

Elementary School (retired)

Charles Anderson

Michele Clark High School

S TRATE GY LEAD S

Ruth Kimble

Austin Childcare

Providers Network

Madelyn James

Austin Childcare

Providers Network

Pam Price Chicago Public Schools

Cata Truss

Community Resident

Sean Schindl Kids First Chicago

Athena Williams

West Cook

Homeownership Center

Allison McGowan

Community Resident

S TRATE GY LEAD S

Shirley Fields

Community Resident

Rosie Dawson Westside Health Authority

Athena Williams

West Cook Homeownership Center

Bradly Johnson BUILD Inc.

Marilyn Pitchford

Heartland Alliance

S TRATE GY LEAD S

Adam Alonso BUILD Inc.

Edwina Hamilton BUILD Inc.

Gina Young

Catholic Charities

Bertha Purnell Mothers OnA Mission28

Jose Abonce The Policing Project

Ruby Taylor Taproots, Inc.

TA SK FORCE CHAIRS

D’elegance Lane

Community Stakeholder

S TRATE GY LEAD S

Deonna Hart BUILD Inc.

Gina Young Catholic Charities

Aisha Oliver

Lurie Children’s Hospital of Chicago

Helen Slade

Territory NFP

Dollie Sherman

Austin Coming Together

Chris Thomas YourPassion1st

TASK FORCE CHAIRS

Deborah Williams-Thurmond

Habilitative Systems Inc.

S TRATE GY LEAD S

Arnold Bearden

South Austin Neighborhood Association (SANA)

Crystal Gardner

Protest to the Polls

Sharif Walker

Bethel New Life

Initial Recommendations for Central Avenue

By Scott Prywitch Marketing & Development Coordinator, Austin Coming Together

Given the enormity that is the Central Avenue Corridor Project, it is vital to recognize its distinct e orts in the conception, planning, and implementation processes.

Currently, the community is situated within the pre-planning stage, which mainly comprises engagement and research aspects. Lasting approximately 18 months, this phase will allow the community to identify leaders who can guide and steward the vision of the project.

On May 23rd, Austin Coming Together (ACT) joined forces with the Urban Land Institute Chicago District Council (ULI Chicago) and the Chicago Metropolitan Agency for Planning (CMAP) at the Kehrein Center for the Arts to present initial recommendations on the Central Avenue Corridor. Attendees had the chance to ask questions and provide feedback for the recommendations.

This public presentation came after a series of group interviews and conversations with Austin stakeholders to determine how best to redevelop the corridor. By connecting with stakeholders directly, the panel was able to hear some of the community’s most glaring concerns with regard to Central Avenue. Some of these include the unmet demand for services and amenities, physical barriers, walkability, development conditions, high unemployment, limited skills-building opportunities, public safety, and negative perceptions.

ULI Chicago formed a Technical Assistance Panel composed of 12 professionals representing urban design, economic development, and real estate. The panel found it imperative to be guided by the following principles when creating recommendations based on community engagements:

• Connect Austin residents to the existing spaces, landmarks, and public assets within Austin.

• Foster a sense of community pride and community awareness.

• Enhance connectivity between major east-west corridors and north-south corridors

• Recapture economic power and activity within Austin.

• Coordinate planning between community stakeholders and public sector.

PANEL RECOMMENDATIONS

STREETSCAPES AND PUBLIC SPACES

• Establish Central Avenue as a spine of destination hubs that are reinforced through a variety of open spaces, civic assets, and historic sites.

• Amplify Austin’s cultural spaces & celebrate Austin’s historic sites by implementing wayfinding tools, visitor signs, key entry points, engaging landscapes, public art installations, and more.

• Enhance connectivity of the Central Avenue Corridor by altering tra c patterns that improve the pedestrian experience.

• Establish Central and Lake as the main destination hub through gateway infrastructure opportunities, establishing flex streets, linking green spaces, and defining Town Hall as a celebrated community anchor.

DEVELOPMENT OPPORTUNITIES

• Create a town center / main destination hub at Central and Lake that will address public safety, implement streetscape and public space improvements, and support food-oriented businesses.

• Build human capital by enhancing the “upskilling” cluster and providing training and resources in many industries.

• Support the residential ecosystem through the support of existing homeowners and enhancement of multifamily properties around Washington Avenue.

• Connect to commercial corridors that continue to focus on and support Chicago Avenue and Madison Street commercial development, attract people to Chicago and Madison, and enhance walkability and bike connections to local community assets.

PARTNERSHIPS AND IMPLEMENTATION

• Focus on alignment with local and city government and continue research into viable financing options.

• Leverage the organizing strength of ACT to create more cohesive planning and investment across public sector actors and create a “master plan” for Austin.

• Coordinate with Westside Health Authority to expand Special Service Area #72 to include Cicero/Chicago/Austin/Madison to generate more revenue and more cohesive governance and use of resources.

Source: Urban Land Institute Chicago Technical Assistance Panel

Looking ahead, the panel also recommends that a “sister agency” task force be established to leverage financial, planning, and other resources. ACT is excited about the potential of the Central Avenue Corridor and is looking forward to building meaningful connections with Austin stakeholders and community partners to set the project in motion.

Though ACT is leading the charge in this e ort along with the aid of ULI Chicago and CMAP, it is important to remember that the project is community-driven. As previously mentioned, the recommendations made during this presentation were inspired by community input, and all future recommendations will be as well. ULI Chicago stresses that the recommendations are merely recommendations, and no o cial planning measures have been taken to implement them. They have come about solely during the initial engagement phase with the community. In the coming months, these recommendations will be subject to evolve per the community’s continued input and will culminate in the release of a formal plan for the corridor which could be ready in late 2024.