Austin Weekly News 071322

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A doggie daycare could be coming to the West Side

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FREE July 13, 2022

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‘Turn yourself in’

Following the murder of Jailyn Logan-Bledsoe, church leaders offer up reward, send message to killers, asking them to step forward

By F. AMANDA TUGADE Wednesday Journal

A group of local church leaders from the West Side and Oak Park announced Friday a $5,000 reward for anyone with tips or information leading to an arrest and conviction of whoever is responsible for the murder of Oak Parker Jailyn LoganBledsoe.

Logan-Bledsoe, 18, was shot and killed nearly a week and a half ago in the parking lot of a BP gas station located at 100 Chicago Ave. in Oak Park. According to a news release, a witness told police two men approached the young woman from behind, fired one shot, stole items from her and then fled in her dark Chrysler vehicle. Police found Logan-Bledsoe unresponsive with a gunshot wound to the neck and transported her to Loyola University Medical Center where she was pronounced dead.

See JAILYN on page 2

A barber’s b b ’ W West Side Sid oasis, page 6

Fanya Berry, of Austin, picks out some greens from the Forty Acres Market stand at the Austin Town Hall City Market on July 7.

Food market cultivating taste of fresh food in Austin Liz Abunaw, who manages Austin Town Hall City Market said it gives taste of local demand for her burgeoning brick-andmortar grocery store PEOPLE MY AGE DON'T THINK THE BOOSTER IS NECESSARY

By SAMANTHA CALLENDER Community Narrative Reporter

After a long weekend selling produce at the Soul City Community Market, 5713 W. Chicago Ave., Liz Abunaw thanked her staff for all their hard work.

Abunaw, the founder of Forty Acres Fresh Market — a grocery startup that sells fresh produce at affordable prices,

SHANEL ROMAIN/Contributer

so that residents on the West Side access healthy food — said during a recent interview that the popup market on Chicago Avenue was busy before the crowds tapered off.

“It’s important for things to pick back up,” she said.

And that’s more than rhetoric. Abunaw is in the process of opening a permanent storefront location at 5713 W. See FOOD MARKET on page 11

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Austin Weekly News, July 13, 2022

JAILYN

Family seeing justice from page 1 On July 8, members of the Leaders Network, a group made up of over a dozen faith leaders and activists from the West Side and Oak Park gathered outside the Oak Park Police Department, urging people to step forward if they have any information that could help solve Logan-Bledsoe’s case.

“Jailyn’s life means so much to us. She has impacted two communities,” said Rev. Ira Acree, who co-chairs the Leaders Network and is the pastor of the Greater St. John Bible Church in Austin.

Acree shared how Logan-Bledsoe’s death was particularly painful because of her family’s history of activism. Logan-Bledsoe’s grandmother, Phyllis Logan, serves as vice president of the Westside Branch NAACP and has dedicated her life to fighting for people’s rights, he said. The college-bound teen, herself, was also a member of the youth chapter of the NAACP and had plans to travel this summer to represent the organization.

Now, it’s time for others to step up, and those with information about Logan-Bled-

ALEX ROGALS/Staff Photographer

The Rev. Ira Acree speaks on Friday, July 1, 2022, during a press conference outside the Oak Park police department regarding the murder of Jailyn Logan-Bledsoe. soe’s case must come forward, Acree said.

“We will not rest until these killers are off the streets.”

Congressman Danny Davis (7th) joined Acree and many others, saying they demand the police department do a “full” investigation and find justice for Logan-Bledsoe and closure for her family. Echoing Acree, other Leaders Network members such as the Rev.

Cy Fields and the Rev. John Edgerton pleaded for help, sending a message to those responsible for Logan-Bledsoe’s death.

“You who pulled the trigger: If there’s any measure of humanity in you, any conscious, any value, turn yourself in,” said Fields, another co-chair of the Leaders Network and pastor of the New Landmark Missionary Baptist Church in East Garfield Park.

M A LC O L M X C O L L E G E

“Confess your faults, one to another,” he said. “You’ve done great harm. How can you live with yourself ? How can you wake up in the morning and go about your daily tasks knowing that you have ended the life of someone precious?”

Edgerton, pastor of First United Church of Oak Park, and Deborah Williams, a member of the Westside NAACP, also took a moment to remember Logan-Bledsoe.

Logan-Bledsoe was a part of the Class of 2022 at Oak Park and River Forest High School and had plans to attend Howard University in the fall. She also nabbed a summer internship with a congressman, Edgerton said. Logan-Bledsoe was also a member of the student-led organization Revolutionary Oak Park Youth Action League (ROYAL).

“She is more than promising …” Edgerton said of Logan-Bledsoe. “To see a life like this snuffed out, it is a tragedy.”

The West Suburban Major Crimes Task Force is assisting the Oak Park Police Department in the investigation. Anyone with information related to the shooting should contact the police department at 708-386-3800.

Those interested in providing information anonymously can do so through the village of Oak Park website at oak-park.us/crimetip or calling 708-434-1636.

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Austin Weekly News, July 13, 2022

Young safe zone cofounder says he was punched by cop

AUSTIN WEEKLY

news

Mayor’s Office says it is investigating incident in which Tae Dudley was swarmed by police, punched and cuffed without explanation, he said

Editor/Director of Diversity, Equity, & Inclusion Michael Romain

By PASCAL SABINO

Columnist Arlene Jones

Senior Editor Bob Uphues Digital Publishing & Technology Manager Briana Higgins Reporter Igor Studenkov Community Narrative Reporter Samantha Callender Reporting Partners Block Club, Austin Talks

Block Club Chicago

On the same day Tae Dudley and his friends launched a violence prevention program in his neighborhood, he was assaulted, he said.

The group of young people organized a safe zone in a troubled part of Austin, an event where families could enjoy their summer in peace. But hours later, a Chicago Police officer charged with safeguarding the neighborhood attacked 20-year-old Dudley, bringing violence into the safe zones youth worked so hard to build, he said.

The June 23 kickoff of the anti-violence initiative, known as the Austin Safety Action Plan, began as a smashing success, organizers said. But hours after it ended, Dudley was swarmed by police, punched and cuffed without explanation, he said. He was never charged with a crime, police confirmed. He was given no warnings or orders before officers battered him, Dudley said.

The incident is now being investigated by the Chicago Police and the Mayor’s Office.

“I’m just trying to figure out why. What did we possibly do that was a threat? They didn’t tell me what we did wrong,” Dudley said.

The summer launch event at Austin Town Hall Park, 5610 W. Lake St., had food and music for neighbors to enjoy. There was also a basketball tournament and games like Jenga, bingo and spades aimed at building connections between young people and older people in the neighborhood, Dudley said.

“Everybody needs somebody at the end of the day. As a community we can help each other. If we can trust the people around us we’re rooting for them, we can get a sense of unity and empower each other,” Dudley said.

Organizers were excited about the large turnout and positive feedback from the launch event so they stuck around at the

Staff Photographer Alex Rogals Design/Production Manager Andrew Mead Editorial Design Manager Javier Govea Provided; Pascal Sabino/Block Club Chicago

Left: Tae Dudley is handcuffed by police, video shows. Right: Darian German (left) and Tae Dudley (right) at a basketball court at Austin Town Hall Park, where the Austin Safety Action Plan’s safe zone launched. park after it ended with their friends and family, Dudley said. Around 10 p.m., officers approached the group and told the group to disperse, even though the park didn’t close for another hour, said Darian German, another anti-violence organizer. The Austin Safety Action Plan group partners with the Austin Police District, and most cops in the area know the people who were at the park, German said.

“When they first approached us, we thought they were just saying what’s up, on some cool stuff. But they were telling us we couldn’t be there. It was the first time we’d ever heard that… this was our get-together spot where we all grew up at,” German said.

The group got ready to leave and Dudley peeled off from the group going in another direction, he said. A few minutes later, the officers returned with several additional squad cars and rushed at Dudley, punched him and put him in cuffs, he said.

“They never said anything. They just bounced out the car, pointed at me. One of them got their gun out. … They hit me in the jaw and put their arms around me,” Dudley said.

Dudley feels the group may have been “labeled as gang-related activity because of our skin color,” he said.

When others in the community heard the

commotion and saw officers “rough up” Dudley and shove other young people, they tried to deescalate by explaining the group’s community safety work, German said.

In a video after Dudley was cuffed, organizers yell at the cops “read his shirt.” Dudley’s shirt was the same one other Austin Safety Action Plan violence prevention organizers were wearing. It said: “Protect Our Hood.”

Officers eventually uncuffed and released Dudley before leaving with no explanation as to why the violent confrontation happened, German said.

Chicago Police declined to say why officers approached Dudley and would not identify which officers were involved in the assault.

But leadership is aware of the incident and has opened an investigation, said Sgt. Rocco Alioto, a spokesman for the department.

German said the incident shocked the group.

“I was shocked at this because it had never really happened to us. We were trying to help [police.] Creating [the Austin Safety Action Plan] was us trying to better our city and that’s helping the officers.

How are we supposed to work together if they’re doing things like that, harassing us?” he asked. “We’re not doing nothing See SAFE ZONE on page 10

Designer Susan McKelvey Sales & Marketing Representavies Lourdes Nicholls, Marc Stopeck, Kamil Brady Development Manager Mary Ellen Nelligan Development & Sales Coordinator Stacy Coleman Circulation Manager Jill Wagner Publisher Dan Haley Special Projects Manager Susan Walker

BOARD OF DIRECTORS Chair Judy Greffin Treasurer Nile Wendorf Deb Abrahamson , Gary Collins, Darnell Shields, Sheila Solomon, Eric Weinheimer HOW TO REACH US 141 S. Oak Park Ave., Oak Park, IL 60302 PHONE 773-626-6332 • FAX 708-467-9066 CIRCULATION Jill@oakpark.com ONLINE www.AustinWeeklyNews.com TWITTER @AustinWeeklyChi Austin Weekly News is published digitally and in print by Growing Community Media NFP. It is distributed free of charge at locations across Austin and Garfield Park. Our hours are Monday through Friday 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

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Austin Weekly News, July 13, 2022

Doggie day care proposed for West Garfield Park The project represents the first new construction in Madison/Pulaski in decades

By IGOR STUDENKOV Staff Reporter

The Chicago City Council recently gave the green light for the construction of an apartment building with a doggie day care on the first floor in West Garfield Park’s Madison/Pulaski commercial corridor, which hasn’t seen much development in decades.

John Gardner and his wife have lived in the community for the past seven years and they’ve owned the Fulton Market District-based Furry Paws Chicago since 2017. Gardner said that they have been impressed with the work various community organizations have been doing to improve West Garfield Park and they wanted to be a part of that revitalization process. Once it’s built, they plan to move their business into the facility at 4225-29 W. Madison St. and rent the apartments for affordable prices.

The City Council approved a zoning change on June 22 that clears the way for Gardner to build the project. Gardner said he has funds to cover about a fourth of the project’s cost, adding that he plans to apply for grants to cover the balance. Gardner hopes to break ground in the spring of 2023 and finish the project within the next 12 to 18 months.

The Madison/Pulaski corridor has historically been the commercial heart of the West Side, but it never quite recovered from the riots that erupted in the wake of Martin Luther King Jr.’s 1968 assassination. Since then, there have been some attempts to revitalize the area. Most recently,

BLDG Projects

Proposed West Garfield Park mixed-use building with a doggie daycare on the first floor. the city approved the Special Service Area taxing district for the entire corridor to raise funds for redevelopment. While many long-time businesses, such as Out of the Past Records, have persevered, last year West Garfield Park’s Aldi location closed without warning.

While East Garfield Park is home to several dog care businesses, including See

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Furry Paws Chicago offers daycare and overnight dog boarding services, as well as dog grooming and dog training. Gardner said over the seven years he’s lived in West Garfield Park, he’s grown to appreciate the community’s potential.

“I see a lot of people, a lot of organizations pushing to make the community safer and more prosperous, and just a nice place to be,” Gardner said. “I just feel that it’s inspiring and I feel like my calling is to play a role in that, in helping that. Obviously, it takes more than one person, but I’d like to be able to be a part of redeveloping West Garfield Park” According to the zoning change application submitted to the city, he plans to build a three-story building with 2,659 square feet of commercial space on the first floor and four apartments on each floor above it. The building would have eight parking spaces. The zoning change is to allow them to have larger units than what the current

zoning allows.

While the application notes that the project isn’t subject to the city’s Affordable Requirements Ordinance, Gardner said he plans to make the rent affordable to an average resident.

During the June 21 meeting of the Chicago City Council’s Committee on Zoning, Ald. Jason Ervin (28th) whose ward includes the entire Madison/Pulaski corridor, said he supports the project.

“I had a chance to meet with the applicant,” he said. “This lot has been vacant forever and this will enhance residents’ quality of living and bring new retail [to the corridor].”

Gardner said he didn’t want to do much community outreach until the project was more of a sure thing. Now that the zoning change has been approved, that process can start, he said. Gardner said that he has been in conversation with Ervin and Mike Tomas, the executive director of the Garfield Park Community Council.

Gardner declined to give a specific figure for how much he expects the project to cost, JOHN GARDNER citing inflation and Furry Paws Chicago owner ongoing supply chain issues; however, he expects costs to be at least $1 million. Part of those funds he and his wife will raise by selling their home, he said.

“Right now, there aren’t many developers who are really putting in anything on that corridor, so it’s like, ‘Here I am, give me a little help,’” he said. “I’m bringing the housing—that’s a very big plus—and just trying to bring it more, giving [the corridor] a different look, more modern look, more prosperous look [and] hopefully encourage more developers to come in and join to give West Garfield Park a different image.”

“I just feel that it’s inspiring and I feel like my calling is to play a role in [being part] of redeveloping West Garfield Park.”

CONTACT: igor@growingcommunitymedia.com

Austin Weekly News, July 13, 2022

Food Aid Festival aims to stock pantries and fill fridges Austin and Oak Park partner in two-day event highlighting local musicians

talent buyer for Harmonica Dunn, hope to maximize concert attendance by keeping the event accessible both geographically and financially. As such, they are offering shows at two locations, one in Chicago’s Austin neighborhood and the other in Oak Park. Tickets for each day are affordably

By MELISSA ELSMO priced at $25.

Oak Park Eats Clark and Biggins, both OPRF graduates have music in common and have worked to Music lovers unite! WBEZ, Suburban ensure the Food Aid Festival will highlight Unity Alliance and Harmonica Dunn have artists from the communities joined forces to sponsor the the event impacts most. Day one first annual Food Aid Festival of the festival will bring ticket to benefit the Oak Park Comholders to the Kehrein Center munity Fridge, Beyond Hunger, for the Arts, 5628 W. WashingA House in Austin, Austin Comton Blvd in Austin, where The ing Together, Best of Proviso O’My’s with Wyatt Waddell and Township and the Westchester Kara Jackson are slated to take Food Pantry. Scheduled for July the stage.

22 and 23, the event features two “Friday’s event will have a locations and multiple musical more traditional structure,” acts. said Biggins who is also owner “As we continue to grow and KARA JACKSON of Golden Dagger in Chicago our work evolves, addressing and the former head of music at food insecurity has become FitzGerald’s Nightclub in Berwyn. “Kara core to our mission,” said Anthony Clark, Jackson is an artist from the Oak Park founder and director of Suburban Unity community, and it is a real honor to have Alliance. “When families reach out to us it them be part of the show.” is generally related to food. Issues of equiJackson, an OPRF graduate, is an acty are all interconnected and we want this tivist, author, and singer-songwriter who event to support organizations doing won- served as the third National Youth Poet derful work in our communities.”

Laureate from 2019-2020. Their perforClark and Donnie Biggins, founder and mance at the Food Aid Festival’s Friday show comes in advance of dropping their debut album this fall. In 2020, Chicago Reader’s Gossip Wolf said Jackson’s “striking acoustic guitar melodies and tender singing go straight for the gut.” Notable Chicago based artists, The O’My’s and Wyatt Wydell will round out the evening with R&B sounds and meaningful melodies.

Day two ticket holders will be welcomed into School of Rock Oak Park, 219 Lake St, Oak Park, for a freer flowing afternoon and evening of live music. Artists including Mary Lane, FURY, Mikey Everything, Since96ix, Yomí, Trichomes and The School of Rock show team will perform between 3 p.m. and 10 p.m. on Saturday July 23. Taylor’s Tacos will be at School of Rock on Saturday serving up their “street tocos for the soul.”

FURY

See FOOD AID on page 11

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Austin Weekly News, July 13, 2022

Barber creating West Side oasis for the marginalized

“I think that when we make a service that’s made for all of us — if you are servicing queer trans Black folks — then everything else can come afterwards,” Jai Rodriguez said

By LOU FOGLIA Block Club Chicago

In 2007, when Jai Rodriguez walked into Jayuya Barbershop in Humboldt Park it was his first time getting a haircut he actually wanted.

For years, Rodriguez kept his hair curly and long down his back. The cut he had in mind was drastically shorter — so much so that the barber was nervous about cutting it and asked Rodriguez five times if he was sure, Rodriguez said.

“It took him a while, and I remember the whole barbershop stopped what they were doing to come see,” Rodriguez said. “It was just so affirming to walk out of there and have the haircut that I wanted.”

Now, Rodriguez, a 38-year-old Puerto Rican and transmaculine barber based in south suburban Homewood, wants queer people who sit in his barber chair to feel the same affirmations. Through education and mentorship within his community, Rodriguez is building a barbershop centered around Black, queer, transgender people.

“One of the things that we don’t get all the time is businesses or places that put Black queer trans folks to the front,” Rodriguez said. “I think that when we make a service that’s made for all of us — if you are servicing queer trans Black folks — then everything else can come afterwards.”

For now, Rodriguez cuts hair out of his home. Most clients find him by word of mouth and identify as LGBTQ, he said. He books clients multiple days a week. Some travel by carpool in groups, booking entire afternoons at a time.

Rodriguez is also the host of Boi Talk, a transmasculine support group through Brave Space Alliance, a Black and trans-led LGBTQ center based in Hyde Park at 1515 E. 52nd Place. Two Saturdays a month, he works hair appointments out of Brave Space Alliance, an idea he helped bring to the organization.

For Rodriguez, hair is an essential part of how queer peo-

LOU FOGLIA/Block Club Chicago

(Above and right) Jai Rodriguez cuts hair for Woodlawn resident Benji Hart at Love Blooms Here Plaza in North Lawndale Saturday, June 18, 2022.

LOU FOGLIA/Block Club Chicago

Jai Rodriguez, a transmasculine barber based in Homewood, is building an inclusive barbershop centered around Chicago’s Black, queer, transgender community.

Rodriguez, pictured in North Lawndale on June 18, cut hair at Love Blooms Here Plaza. ple express themselves. It holds the power to make a statement and “the freedom” to be who you are, he said.

“I was told I would look super manly if I cut off all my hair,” Rodriguez said. “I think before I knew I was trans, I kind of battled with keeping hair for somebody else because it made them feel comfortable. When I was able to chop my hair down to a one — it was so freeing. I was able to look at myself so differently than I used to before.”

Rodriguez grew up in Humboldt Park. Routine visits to Jayuya Barbershop led Rodriguez to the idea of cutting his own hair. He spent hours learning from barbers in neighborhood shops and eventually got a job cutting hair at Jayuya.

Rodriguez later went independent, buying a vintage barber chair from a retiring barber and cutting hair out of his mother’s Humboldt Park home. Rodriguez built a following among queer clients and began cultivating a space where LGBTQ people could be their authentic selves.

“We could be as gay as we wanted to be,” Rodriguez said.

“We didn’t have to dial anything down or constantly be monitoring.”

Rodriguez said he is proud to be “visibly queer,” but he noted queerness is not something people can hide or turn off when walking into a barbershop, even if there is an urge to do so.

“Being in a barbershop can also be really weird for somebody who is not a straight dude,” Rodriguez said. “The conversations get really weird really fast. It’s super sexist.”

Rodriguez working out of his own space has allowed for clients to discuss difficult topics, like gender-affirming health care, gender dysphoria, relationships and family. Clients share resources while getting representation and mentorship from Rodriguez. Safety is a top priority, he said.

“I take my job really seriously because there’s not that many people that come in such close contact with you. It’s literally like doctors — and barbers,” Rodriguez said. “I’m a person that is pretty big on personal space, so I really make sure that I’m in the right headspace and in the right energy when I’m dealing with my clients because I know It can get really uncomfortable when someone’s not respecting what you want or what you need at that point.”

Benji Hart, 33, of Woodlawn, said being able to discuss LGBTQ topics with their barber is one of the reasons they keep coming back to Rodriguez.

“It’s great having another queer person of color that not just understands my hair but understands me,” Hart said.

“We can talk about what’s going on in our lives, we can talk about relationship advice and friendship advice and navi-

Austin Weekly News, July 13, 2022 gating these issues of identities with our families.”

Hart has been a client of Rodriguez since 2013. They said they experienced pushback from other barbers in the past and were told certain styles they asked for wouldn’t be what they wanted.

Rodriguez always knew where Hart was coming from. Rodriguez always listened.

“Jai really knows my hair,” Hart said. “Jai is really good at helping you figure out what you want without telling you what you want and really being a guide for you and figuring out the look that was best for you.”

Rodriguez’s said he hopes to open a threechair barbershop to service queer and trans people by the end of the year. He recently completed a business course through Sunshine Enterprises and is seeking an acces-

sible space on the South Side.

Rodriguez envisions a space where pronouns are respected and where he can teach other queer barbers to build their own clientele.

Rodriguez hopes having his own location will help draw attention to the work he is doing, he said.

He wants people to understand there is a need for LGBTQ friendly space within barbershops and a market for queer and trans people who need barbers that listen to them.

“The feeling LOU FOGLIA/Block Club Chicago when you get a good haircut — it’s like you’re on top of the world,” Rodriguez said. “That’s always what I’m looking for: to give people exactly what they want and to know what exactly it means when you get it right.”

CONTACT: pascal@blockclubchi.org

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Austin Weekly News, July 13, 2022

My Block, My Hood community walks coming back

Stops on the tours will include the home and church where Martin Luther King Jr. lived and preached while he organized in Chicago in the ‘60s

By PASCAL SABINO Block Club Chicago

For the fifth year running, Lawndale teenagers want to show you around their neighborhood.

Nonprofit My Block, My Hood, My City is bringing back its “Youth-Led Community Walks” July through August, according to a news release.

The program employs Lawndale youth as tour guides to give people a view of the neighborhood through their eyes and fight pervasive stereotypes about the area.

People can sign up for the neighborhood walks at formyblock.org/communitywalks. Tickets are $35 each.

Walking tours this summer will focus on North Lawndale’s rich history in the Civil Rights Movement, according to the news release. Teen tour guides will show visitors the streets where Martin Luther King Jr. lived and worked while he organized in Chicago.

The iconic Stone Temple Church, 3622 W. Douglas Blvd. where MLK preached will be a stop on the tours, according to the news release. Participants will meet community members who are preserving MLK’s legacy in the neighborhood and continuing his fight for equal rights, organizers said.

The community walks have grown every year since starting in 2018, according to My Block, My Hood, My City. All proceeds go back into the program and to support participating youth, according to the news release.

Those interested in booking private walks can email nathaniel@mbmhmc.com.

CONTACT: pascal@blockclubchi.org

PASCAL SABINO/Block Club Chicago

North Lawndale teens who led scooter tours of their neighborhood in 2019.

PEOPLE MY AGE DON'T THINK THE BOOSTER IS NECESSARY

HEAR WHY

KIYA C.

CHI.GOV/REALSTORIES

Austin Weekly News, July 13, 2022

Free COVID tests work!

M

y recent trip to Florida was the first time I had flown since the COVID-19 outbreak. I was diligent in wearing an N-95 mask the entire time and did my best to be as cautious as possible during the entire trip. But alas, three days after returning home from Florida, I didn’t feel well. I had those “at home” COVID tests that the government had been sending out in the mail, so I put it to use. Ten minutes later, I had my answer.

I had the COVID antibodies in my system.

I have never been vaccinated, and that is a personal decision I chose to make. So seeing the positive test results for COVID was sobering. It truly is the luck of the draw as to the variety of COVID one gets, and the corresponding symptoms.

My daughter and her boyfriend both caught it over Thanksgiving week of 2021.

They came through with flying colors, so I prayed that I would have a similar experience.

I never got a fever. I did have an upset stomach and that was partly the reason why I decided to test for COVID. In truth, though, I had an event that I was supposed to attend last Saturday, July 2, and I needed a negative COVID test result to gain admission. When my at-home test came back positive, I decided it was best to stay home and quarantine. I ended up losing my ability to taste anything, but that only lasted 24 hours. I quarantined for eight days, constantly checking my temperature and doing additional tests.

Since I never had a fever, I quarantined beginning Thursday, June 30 through Friday, July 8. One of the symptoms I did have was a sharp throbbing pain that would come and go in my left temple. I have no clue what that was all about.

I needed groceries, and Amazon was the place I turned to. I was pleasantly surprised that the prices for the food items were not that exorbitant.

The first day I was going to order, the only delivery times were late in the evening, so I decided to wait until early the next morning and get a delivery window that was a little bit better for me. Most of the grocery items were good, but the fresh mushrooms lacked appeal and the carrots had a freshness date that made them suspect. But Amazon quickly refunded my money for those two things.

I would highly recommend that every household get and maintain those free COVID tests. I Googled “free COVID test” and got the link to those from the post office. Those free test kits are especially useful because of the kids. My grandchildren have undergone several COVID tests at their doctor’s office, and they are now paranoid about their noses getting swabbed. Plus anytime one is sick, you can at least test for COVID so that you know if you’ve had it or not. Based on the lack of symptoms I had, it could have been easy to have overlook it as a 24-hour bug.

But because I know I had it, I knew all the precautionary steps to take.

Everyone is expected to get COVID at least once in their lifetime.

ARLENE JONES

AUSTIN WEEKLY NEWS Mail your letter to the editor to: Austin Weekly News, 141 S. Oak Park Ave., Oak Park, IL 60302 or email michael@austinweeklynews.com

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Austin Weekly News, July 13, 2022

Oak Park artist transforms used plastic into work of art Cody Norman’s ‘Plasticus Porticus,’ made from waste and with help from Takeout 25, at Chicago Botanic Garden through September

By SAMANTHA CALLENDER Community Narrative Reporter

During the pandemic, Takeout 25 was created to help support local restaurants in Oak Park that were struggling to stay in business.

The initiative, which started as neighbors helping neighbors, eventually turned into an organization that is still around today Recently, Takeout 25 inspired an art installation at the Chicago Botanic Garden. Artist Cody Norman’s “Plasticus Porticus” sculpture is made entirely of waste from takeout containers and was created by Norman in his studio at 5339 W. Lake Street in Austin.

“I started working with plastics in graduate school,” said Norman, who lives in Oak Park. “Only 10% of plastic gets recycled, so I enjoy exploring how my work can recycle and tie back to these conversations of environmental consciousness and sustainability.”

Oak Park Trustee Ravi Parakkat, founder of Takeout 25 and the organization’s board president, said Norman’s work is a representation of both the past and the future of Takeout 25.

SAFE ZONE

Investigation happening from page 3 but chilling in our community.”

These kinds of incidents shatter the trust between residents and the police, German said.

“If it can happen to us, it can happen to anyone,” German said. “We’re supposed to be trusting them with our lives. We’re supposed to feel comfortable around them.”

The young people behind the Austin Safety Action Plan were recently commended by Mayor Lori Lightfoot for their leadership in creating community-led solutions to stop the violence.

PROVIDED

“Plasticus Porticus” by Cody Norman will be on display at the Chicago Botanic Garden through September.

The organization’s projects fall under at least one of three core pillars: helping local businesses, addressing food security and sustainability.

“The connection that supporting businesses had with waste from takeout containers bothered me a little bit,” said Parakkat.

“This was a way to address that sustainability pillar.”

“Plasticus Porticus” features a vibrant 12foot arch that Norman created using a combination of high-density polyethylene and polypropylene plastics.

Norman used more than 250 pounds of the

material for his work, which he describes as “a small-scale effort that can lead to larger changes in how individuals in our community choose to consume single-use plastic.”

In collaboration with Oak Park and River Forest High School’s Clean Up Give Back student group, Takeout 25 and Norman collected waste from area homes.

“I think [art and sustainability] are parallel to each other. Art can really change how we think of sustainability. I like to think of my art as an awareness tool,” said Norman. “If someone sees my piece at the Botanic Garden, they read the

“We need to make sure we are listening to our young people… our young people are doing amazing things all over the city every day,” Lightfoot said at a recent press conference where German was invited to speak about the Austin Safety Action Plan.

Young people should not be assumed to be troublemakers and many are at the forefront of fixing the problems in their communities, the mayor said at the press conference.

“We don’t want to paint every single young person in our city with the same broad brush because it’s not fair,” Lightfoot said.

The mayor’s office is working with police and community members to learn more about how the confrontation unfolded, spokesman Cesar Rodriguez said in a statement.

“[The Austin Safety Action Plan] is a valued partner who shares our commitment to creating safe spaces and reducing violence in the Austin neighborhood,” the statement said. “Everyone from the government to community organizations to city residents has a role to play in violence prevention.”

Now, the youth organizers are working to hold the officers accountable while ensuring their public safety project does not get derailed by the confrontation, they said.

The Austin Safety Action plan was designed to reclaim areas that struggled with violence by filling them with positive events and community-building programs based out of neighborhood hubs like the Austin Town Hall Park, the library and local schools. The project was initially started in 2021, and it was successful in reducing violence in the safety zone, organizers said.

description and they see its origin story and that it’s made of recycled materials, then maybe they’ll have this moment where they begin to think about how they engage with and consume plastics.”

The piece will sit in residence at the Chicago Botanic Garden through September to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the gardens. Afterwards, Parakkat says that he hopes the sculpture can find a home in Austin, where it was created.

While the studio where Norman works isn’t open to the public, he makes it a personal priority to engage with the neighborhood around him.

“I try to speak to folks and engage with them if they ask me what’s going on around here,” he said. “Folks have asked me what goes on in here and I tell them there’s a bunch of artists in there creating things.

They tell me stories of racing go karts around the building when it was abandoned.

I’ve learned so much about the history of this block from the residents.”

Parakkat said Takeout 25 wants to engage more with the Austin community and encourages small businesses in Austin to join their network.

“We want to break down the lines that exist with Austin. We’re always interested in the impact versus our intent,” Parakkat said. “Our members share everything from resources to professional connections and just general advice. We’d really like for Austin business owners to be in on this as well.”

CONTACT: samantha@austinweeklynews.com Later in the summer, ASAP will have programs that “invest in our mental wellness” as well as peace circles, men’s groups, women’s groups and activities to promote physical health, Dudley said. The plan will “keep people engaged” in the community, which helps keep the peace, he said.

By offering activities and events that address the things people in the neighborhood need, ASAP aims to “create a designated safe zone and take back space that’s used for loitering and idle behavior,” Dudley said.

“There’s a lot of things we want to make a change with, like grocery stores and mental health,” Dudley said. “We want to be able to be safe so everybody can come out and have fun and be themselves.”

CONTACT: pascal@blockclubchi.org

Austin Weekly News, July 13, 2022

FARMERS MARKET

An appetite for fresh food from page 1 Chicago Ave. in Austin. Work on the space is expected to start later this year. Abunaw hopes to open sometime in 2023.

There will be a lot riding on the location.

After the closure of numerous grocers in the last few years, including the sudden departure in February of Save-a-lot at 5555 W. North Ave., Forty Acres will be one of the only brick-and-mortar stores where West Side residents can purchase affordable fruits and vegetables.

And if her store is to work, Abunaw said, the community will need to support it.

“If investors see in the numbers that there is buying power in a neighborhood, they will come,” Abunaw said. “When the numbers don’t reflect the opportunity, then

they won’t.”

Abunaw said that the various popup markets Forty Acres hosts are ways to both test the strength of that local buying power and to enhance it by cultivating regular customers who will have already established a relationship with the Forty Acres brand once the permanent store opens. ““Come out and support the pop-ups and markets in the meantime,” Abunaw tells residents. “Sign up to get produce delivered if you can’t make it out. Start taking steps now that will make it easier for you to become a regular once we open our store and so we can stay in the community.”

That message seems to be resonating with some residents like Janaiya Adams, of Austin, who attended the Austin Town Hall City Market, a summer farmers market for the West Side held each Thursday through October in the courtyard of Austin Town Hall, 5610 W. Lake St. “I heard they were doing this last year, but I didn’t come at the time,” she said. “I don’t

SHANEL ROMAIN/Contributer

Earline Williams, of Austin, picks out some green tomatoes during the the Austin Town Hall City Market on July 7.

FOOD AID

Celebrating the local from page 5 “I said yes right away, and I am excited to partner with the Kehrein Center for the Arts,” said Amy Renzulli, owner of School of Rock Oak Park. “When it comes to using music, art and food to help the community I am always going to raise my hand.”

Eighty-six-year-old headliner, Mary

Lane, is a member of the Chicago Blues Hall of Fame and her first solo album in two decades, Travelin’ Woman, released in 2019 helped her earn recognition as “comeback artist of the year” by Living Blues Magazine. Lane was the recipient of the prestigious Koko Taylor Lifetime Achievement Award presented by the Jus Blues Music Foundation last year. Expect her soulful and timeless voice to connect with the audience.

“We are excited and truly honored to host legendary blues singer Mary Lane,” said Renzulli. “We owe our rock and roll

11

SHANEL ROMAIN/Contributer

Mandy Penksa, farm manager for Fighting Justice, gathers some locally grown green onions to display and sell at the Austin Town Hall City Market on July 7. know, I just wasn’t sure what all it was. But then I saw they were doing it again this year, so I came to check it out. It’s cool they take LINK. I didn’t know that, so I’ll be back next time with my card.”

“People act like Austin doesn’t want fresh food,” said Austin resident Amina Holcomb.

“We do. So, I come to support Liz, so that her people can keep doing stuff like this.

“I buy a lot of the fresh fruit and I grab greens and stuff like that for my mama.

She’s old, so she can’t make it out, but she likes the produce. I come when I can. I can’t make it every week, but if I’m free I try to stop by and show some love.”

While Forty Acres manages the Austin Town Hall City Market, the initiative is sponsored by the city’s Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events.

Nona Ethington, the Garfield Park Community Council’s garden network project manager, said the affordable fee attracted

her organization to the market. They were selling greens for $2 a bundle, honey and jams.

“Some markets have pretty expensive vendor fees that we just can’t do,” she said.

“This one was super affordable, plus we love what Liz and Forty Acres are doing, so we’re happy to come and support that.”

Lindsey Collier, a butcher and market operator for the Chicago Meat Collective, said she supports Abunaw’s mission.

“We’re a woman-owned business as well, so we love supporting other women,” Collier said. “We’re excited to help build up this market and get fresh butchered meat into Austin.”

The Austin Town Hall City Market is held at Austin Town Hall Park, 5610 W. Lake St. 1 p.m. to 6 p.m., every Thursday through late October.

roots to groundbreaking musicians like her and her fellow blues musicians. We look forward to seeing the incredible line up of music and giving back to the community at a time when resources are stretched thin.”

The Saturday concert also boasts hyperlocal flair with performances by hiphop artist, Oak Park native and LGBTQ activist, Mikey Everything and Austin based rapper, FURY. Sure to be a draw, FURY, standing for “finally understanding the real you” will bring her socially conscious themes to the stage; an artist and activist,

she is focused on revitalizing Chicago’s West Side — her passion for community dovetails nicely with Food Aid’s mission.

Clark established Suburban Unity Alliance in 2016 and over the years addressing food insecurity has evolved to become a core issue the equity focused organization aims to address. Both he and Biggins hope Food Aid will become an important funding source for interconnected community organizations dedicated to hunger relief efforts this year and for years to come.

CONTACT: samantha@austinweeklynews.com

CONTACT: michael@austinweeklynews.com

12 Austin Weekly News, July 13, 2022 RENTALS & REAL ESTATE OFFICE FOR RENT

OAK PARK THERAPY OFFICES: Therapy offices available on North Avenue. Parking; Flexible leasing; Nicely furnished; Waiting Room; Conference Room.

Ideal for new practice or 2nd location.

708.383.0729 Call for an appt.

HELP WANTED LIFELONG AUSTIN RESIDENT CONSULTANT

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.

Seeking Austin resident 38-45 years old who grew up in Austin to consult on character development for a fiction project. Nerdy or interested in science fiction and fantasy particularly suited. Contact editoranaea@ gmail.com or DM @anaealay on Twitter. $25/hour.

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.

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.

ANIMAL CONTROL OFFICER

The Village of Oak Park is seeking qualified candidates for the position of Animal Control Officer in the Health Department. This position will perform a variety of duties involved in enforcing Village ordinances governing the care and keeping of animals in the Village; and to impound, care for and assist with redemption of animals as appropriate. Applicants are encouraged to apply using the following link: https://secure.entertimeonline.com/ta/6141780.careers?ApplyToJob=218333253. For additional information on the position please visit the Village of Oak Park’s website http://www.oak-park.us/jobs.

This position is open until filled.

  

PARK DISTRICT OF OAK PARK LANDSCAPE SPECIALIST The Park District of Oak Park is hiring a Part-time Landscape Specialist with an hourly pay rate of $15.00. To view the full job description and apply online please click the following link: https://www.paycomonline.net/v4 /ats/web.php/jobs/ ViewJobDetails?job=66642 &clientkey=41D830018490 6117978771C10E755DC6

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Austin Weekly News, July 13, 2022

CLASSIFIED

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

MARKETPLACE

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Restored or Unrestored Cars & Vintage Motorcycles Domestic / Import Cars:

WANTED MILITARY ITEMS:

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

Call Uncle Gary 708-522-3400

Mercedes, Porsche, Corvette, Ferrari’s, Jaguars, Muscle Cars, Mustang & Mopars

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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

NEWS

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REAL ESTATE FOR SALE

REAL ESTATE FOR SALE

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF COOK COUNTY, ILLINOIS COUNTY DEPARTMENT CHANCERY DIVISION NATIONSTAR MORTGAGE LLC D/B/A MR. COOPER Plaintiff, -v.AUGUSTINE MORGAN, CITY OF CHICAGO, UNKNOWN OWNERS AND NONRECORD CLAIMANTS, UNKNOWN HEIRS AND LEGATEES OF WILL W SMITH III, THOMAS HARDING, FREDDIE HARDING, WILL HARDING, LATEE SMITH, DANIEL SMITH, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA, JULIE FOX, AS SPECIAL REPRESENTATIVE FOR WILL W. SMITH III (DECEASED) Defendants 2019 CH 00118 2128 S HARDING AVE CHICAGO, IL 60623 NOTICE OF SALE PUBLIC NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale entered in the above cause on February 11, 2020, an agent for The Judicial Sales Corporation, will at 10:30 AM on August 8, 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 2128 S HARDING AVE, CHICAGO, IL 60623 Property Index No. 16-23-317-0290000 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)

14

Austin Weekly News, July 13, 2022

CLASSIFIED

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

REAL ESTATE FOR SALE

REAL ESTATE FOR SALE

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. 14-18-13484 Attorney ARDC No. 00468002 Attorney Code. 21762 Case Number: 2019 CH 00118 TJSC#: 42-2475 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 00118 I3198170

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, contact JOHNSON, BLUMBERG & ASSOCIATES, LLC Plaintiff’s Attorneys, 230 W. Monroe Street, Suite #1125, Chicago, IL, 60606 (312) 541-9710. Please refer to file number IL 21 8346.

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.

JOHNSON, BLUMBERG & ASSOCIATES, LLC 230 W. Monroe Street, Suite #1125 Chicago IL, 60606 312-541-9710 E-Mail: ilpleadings@johnsonblumberg.com Attorney File No. IL 21 8346 Attorney Code. 40342 Case Number: 2021 CH 00422 TJSC#: 42-1952 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 00422 I3198288

REVENUE, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA, UNKNOWN OWNERS AND NONRECORD CLAIMANTS, MARY CATHERINE HICKS Defendants 2017 CH 15961 5731 W. RACE 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 May 11, 2022, an agent for The Judicial Sales Corporation, will at 10:30 AM on August 12, 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 5731 W. RACE AVENUE, CHICAGO, IL 60644 Property Index No. 16-08-221-0050000 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 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. 14-17-16813 Attorney ARDC No. 00468002 Attorney Code. 21762 Case Number: 2017 CH 15961 TJSC#: 42-1862 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 # 2017 CH 15961 I3198359

forth below, the following described real estate: Commonly known as 648 NORTH LECLAIRE AVENUE, CHICAGO, IL 60644 Property Index No. 16-09-209-0210000 The real estate is improved with a single family residence.

The judgment amount was $105,458.87.

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.

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, contact The sales clerk, LOGS Legal Group LLP Plaintiff’s Attorneys, 2121 WAUKEGAN RD., SUITE 301, Bannockburn, IL, 60015 (847) 2911717 For information call between the hours of 1pm - 3pm.. Please refer to file number 19-092414.

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.

LOGS Legal Group LLP 2121 WAUKEGAN RD., SUITE 301 Bannockburn IL, 60015 847-291-1717 E-Mail: ILNotices@logs.com Attorney File No. 19-092414 Attorney Code. 42168 Case Number: 19 CH 14173 TJSC#: 42-2173 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 # 19 CH 14173 I3197744

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF COOK COUNTY, ILLINOIS COUNTY DEPARTMENT CHANCERY DIVISION DEUTSCHE BANK NATIONAL TRUST COMPANY, AS TRUSTEE, ON BEHALF OF THE CERTIFICATE HOLDERS OF THE FFMLT TRUST 2006-FF13, MORTGAGE PASSTHROUGH CERTIFICATES, SERIES 2006-FF13 Plaintiff, -v.HILDA DIAZ, MORTGAGE ELECTRONIC REGISTRATION SYSTEMS, INC. AS NOMINEE FOR FIRST FRANKLIN A DIVISION OF NAT. CITY BANK OF IN Defendants 2021 CH 00422 1040 N. MENARD AVE CHICAGO, IL 60651 NOTICE OF SALE PUBLIC NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale entered in the above cause on May 9, 2022, an agent for The Judicial Sales Corporation, will at 10:30 AM on August 11, 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 1040 N. MENARD AVE, CHICAGO, IL 60651 Property Index No. 16-05-411-0280000 The real estate is improved with a multi-family residence.

The judgment amount was $195,619.84.

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

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF COOK COUNTY, ILLINOIS COUNTY DEPARTMENT CHANCERY DIVISION U.S. BANK NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, AS TRUSTEE FOR MASTR ASSET-BACKED SECURITIES TRUST 2007-HE1 MORTGAGE PASS-THROUGH CERTIFICATES SERIES 2007- HE1 Plaintiff, -v.TYRA V. KENNEDY, STATE OF ILLINOIS - DEPARTMENT OF

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF COOK COUNTY, ILLINOIS COUNTY DEPARTMENT CHANCERY DIVISION MIDFIRST BANK Plaintiff, -v.DAISY POWELL, UNKNOWN HEIRS AND/OR LEGATEES OF GERTRUDE ELLIS, DECEASED, UNKNOWN HEIRS AND/ OR LEGATEES OF JOANNE POWELL, DECEASED, TAMARA POWELL, DWAYNE J. POWELL, DAMON RITENHOUSE, AS SPECIAL REPRESENTATIVE FOR GERTRUDE ELLIS, DECEASED, UNKNOWN OWNERS AND NON-RECORD CLAIMANTS, UNKNOWN OCCUPANTS Defendants 19 CH 14173 648 NORTH LECLAIRE 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 January 12, 2022, an agent for The Judicial Sales Corporation, will at 10:30 AM on August 3, 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

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF COOK COUNTY, ILLINOIS COUNTY DEPARTMENT CHANCERY DIVISION WILMINGTON SAVINGS FUND SOCIETY FSB, AS OWNER TRUSTEE OF THE RESIDENTIAL CREDIT OPPORTUNITIES TRUST V-B; Plaintiff, vs.

EDP PROPERTIES, LLC; MARY JEAN PORTER; UNKNOWN OWNERS, NON RECORD CLAIMANTS; Defendants, 21 CH 851 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, August 9, 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: Commonly known as 625 N. Lotus Ave., Chicago, IL 60644 P.I.N. 16-09-109-014-0000 and 1609-109-047-0000.

The mortgaged real estate is improved with a single family residence and vacant land. 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. Stephen G. Daday at Plaintiff’s Attorney, Klein, Daday, Aretos & O’Donoghue, LLC, 1051 Perimeter Drive, Schaumburg, Illinois 60173. (847) 590-8700. Porter INTERCOUNTY JUDICIAL SALES CORPORATION intercountyjudicialsales.com I3197561

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.

GROWING COMMUNITY MEDIA

Austin Weekly News, July 13, 2022

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ai1657040535164_SummerDance Austin Weekly -Half page vertical 49167 x 9 585 June 2022 FINAL.pdf 1 7/5/2022 12:02:16 PM

Prayers for Highland Park from the West Side West Side ministers traveled to the north suburb July 8

By THE LEADERS NETWORK

In addition to the mass shooting in Highland Park, the Independence Day Community Contributor weekend statistics totaled an unacceptA 2 year-old left orphaned when his able 72 shootings in Chicago.

The Leaders Network is dedicated to parents were murdered.

A dedicated synagogue congregant stopping all of this violence, regardless and a grandfather visiting from Mexico of the race or ZIP code of the victims.

Any new gun legislation by Congress left dead.

An 8 year-old shot in the chest and like- must finally include a complete ban on all assault weapons, the group says. ly paralyzed from the waist down.

Separately, Rev. Acree, pasThese are some of the victor of Greater St. John Bible tims of last week’s IndepenChurch, released the followdence Day shooting in Highing statement on state Sen. land Park that killed seven Darren Bailey’s insensitive people and wounded 38. The comments regarding the high number of casualties Highland Park mass shootwas caused by an AR-15 asing and his record on fightsault rifle, which is increasing gun violence: ingly the weapon of choice “It is offensive and downfor violent men who target right disqualifying for Darinnocent people. ren Bailey to use Chicago’s This weapon of war left REV. IRA ACREE Black and Brown communione victim with half of their Co-chairman, ties as a talking point. Mr. head missing. Other victims Leaders Network Bailey voted against all of had their bodies and internal organs splattered on the the historic funding for viostreet. The graphic barbarlence prevention programs ity of how these weapons dechampioned by Gov. Pritzker stroyed their victims is why and is desperately attemptthe Leaders Network has ing to steer the narrative been calling for a ban on asaway from his own abysmal sault weapons for more than failures. a decade.

Bailey’s “extreme views and belief It is also why the Leaders Network that unmitigated access to guns actuwere in Highland Park on July 8 – to ally keeps people safe is out of touch stand with the victims of America’s lat- with reality and may be why it was so est mass shooting. easy for him to tell people to ‘move on’ “We are going to support our neigh- just 90 minutes after a mass shooting,” bors and to offer our prayers,” Pastor Ira Acree said in a statement.

J. Acree said before making the trip to Bailey, the Republican nominee runHighland Park. “It’s the least we can do ning against Democrat Gov. J.B. Pritzer, as we continue our advocacy for the ban has repeatedly voted against necessary of assault weapons.” funding for mental health services along “Our parishioners have been heartbro- with gun violence prevention and public ken thinking of the baby McCarthy be- safety programs, Acree pointed out. ing left alone and all the victims in HighThe minister added that Bailey a few land Park,” said Rev. Marshall Hatch Sr., years ago raffled off an assault weapon pastor of New Mount Pilgrim Mission- that was nearly identical to the one used ary Baptist Church. “People understand in the Highland Park massacre and has that the tears and pain from gun violence called Chicago a “hellhole.” in West Garfield Park and Highland Park CONTACT: michael@austinweeklynews.com hurts all the same.”

“We are going to support our neighbors and offer our prayers.”

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Austin Weekly News, July 13, 2022