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Chicago Police pointed guns at sleeping children in raid, lawsuit alleges

Vol. 35 No. 32

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August 11, 2021

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PAGE 14

Rep. Davis announces reelection, page 14

County to investigate W. Side flooding, recommend solutions The Metropolitan Water Reclamation District of Greater Chicago wants to hear from residents about location, severity of flooding

By IGOR STUDENKOV

Climate lessons

Contributing Reporter

The Metropolitan Water Reclamation District of Greater Chicago (MWRD) wants to hear from residents of Austin, West Garfield Park and Humboldt Park community areas about any flooding issues they may be experiencing, so that the agency can develop a plan to address it.

The MWRD treats wastewater and works to reduce flooding throughout Chicago and suburban Cook County. Since 2016, it has been working on stormwater master plans for different parts of the county, with the goal of creating a list of projects that could address the issues on the ground and have community support.

The MWRD is looking to complete the study for the West Side community areas by January 2022, with the goal of presenting recommendations to the city later that year.

In the meantime, community outreach representatives for the project, such as Tyrail Williams, have been giving presentations to the public about the MWRD’s plans. Williams presented during a community meeting hosted by Ald. Chris Taliaferro (29th) on July 21.

See FLOODING on page 5

Photo on left provided. Right: Pexels

Jasmine Jones, a science teacher at Al Raby High School, launched a solar panel project with her students.

City launches virtual initiative for employers, job-seekers

Karin M. Norington-Reaves, head of Chicago Cook Workforce Partnership, says Hire Chicago website has over 9,000 jobs posted

By MICHAEL ROMAIN Editor

West Side residents seeking jobs, employers seeking workers and would-be workers who need skills may just find what they’re looking for in a new 5-week initiative recently launched by several city and county entities.

The initiative, called Hire Chicago, is a collaboration between Chicago Mayor Lori Lightfoot’s office, World Business Chicago and the Chicago Cook Workforce Partnership.

The 5-week initiative includes free virtual workshops, pre-screening discussions and support, and job interviews with employers in some of five high-demand in-

dustries: manufacturing; transportation, distribution and logistics; healthcare; information technology (IT); and food service, hospitality and tourism.

Norington-Reaves said that, so far, over 160 employers have registered to interview prospective job-seekers and over See JOBS on page 10

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Austin Weekly News, August 11, 2021

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Austin Weekly News, August 11, 2021

AUSTIN WEEKLY

news

Equity Editor/Ombudsman/Editor Michael Romain Senior Editor Bob Uphues Contributing Reporter Igor Studenkov Reporting Partners Block Club, Austin Talks Columnist Arlene Jones Staff Photographer Alex Rogals Design/Production Manager Andrew Mead Editorial Design Manager Javier Govea Designer Mark Moroney Pascal Sabino/Block Club Chicago

UCAN is expected to be a community partner to the mayor’s Community Safety and Coordination Center.

City launches central ‘nerve center’ to combat crime

The Community Safety and Coordination Center will be a centralized hub for programs that impact safety across all city departments

By PASCAL SABINO Block Club Chicago

The city is restructuring its approach to violence prevention by bringing public safety initiatives that are spread across several departments into one central location, Mayor Lori Lightfoot announced Thursday.

Public safety programs and related agencies will come together under the newly created Community Safety and Coordination Center. All projects that can help address violence will be “living under one roof,” Lightfoot said.

“This new center will act as a city resource nerve center and central location for violence interventions across Chicago,” Lightfoot said.

The center will bring together and amplify many of the investments being made to address community violence and the conditions that allow violence to exist, Lightfoot said.

This year, the city has invested $52 million in violence prevention programs that include

strategies such as street outreach, victim services, targeted interventions for youth, gender-based violence programs, housing initiatives and diversion programs, Lightfoot said.

In addition to housing those programs, the center will coordinate other community support initiatives like youth programs, physical and mental health services, parks, libraries, schools and workforce development opportunities, Lightfoot said.

“We will break down silos and have more [360-degree] visibility across vulnerable communities and thereby be better able to see the problems and solve them,” Lightfoot said.

The Community Safety and Coordination Center represents a new “whole of government approach” that hinges on collaboration between all city agencies as well as nongovernmental partners in the efforts to end street violence, Lightfoot said.

The whole-government approach is “borrowing pages from [Chicago’s] COVID response” because, similar to the coronavirus pandemic, “systemic inequities are at the root of many of the problems we are facing,” Lightfoot said.

Labor unions will have a role, as job readiness programs will be part of the center to help city agencies bring employment opportunities to communities most vulnerable to violence, said Keith Richardson, president of the Chicago Postal Workers Union.

“The centralized coordination of resources

is an essential step in getting our most at-risk residents meaningful employment opportunities that can steer them away from a life of violence,” Richardson said.

Similar to the pandemic response, the city will take a data-driven approach that is rooted in hyperlocal community partnerships, said public health Commissioner Dr. Allison Arwady.

“We want to take the approaches we’ve used in COVID, take those lessons, take the ideas everyone has, get coordinated and try to implement them,” Arwady said.

The city is assembling a steering committee made up of community leaders to guide the development of the center. The committee will mirror the Racial Equity Rapid Response Team convened to address the disproportionate impact the pandemic had on Black and Latino communities.

“To truly reduce violence, you need everyone to be bought in and on board,” said Frank Perez, director of Violence Intervention and Prevention at UCAN. “No organization, government or community group can make a serious dent by themselves.”

Subscribe to Block Club Chicago, an independent, 501(c)(3), journalist-run newsroom.

Every dime we make funds reporting from Chicago’s neighborhoods.

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Austin Weekly News, August 11, 2021

West Siders use baseball to create safe havens

Garfield Park Little League teamed up with The BASE Chicago to hold an anti-violence protest followed by a baseball game for kids

By MACK LIEDERMAN Block Club Chicago

Children’s baseball has turned into a way to promote peace on the West Side.

Local violence prevention group The BASE Chicago and Garfield Park Little League recently held what they described as a “weekend for peace” at the baseball fields near South Independence and West Jackson boulevards. They brought together kids to play — and to demonstrate against violence as shootings and murders have risen during the pandemic.

The weekend started July 30: Youth members of The BASE, also a non-profit travel sports program, led more than 200 people in a protest for peace. Protesters held signs that called to “stop the violence” and created a community art project that honors victims.

Then Saturday, BASE partnered with Garfield Park Little League, MLB and the Park District for a Sandlot Day where kids peacefully played baseball in Garfield Park.

“Whenever you talk about something bad, or try to steer away from something bad, I feel like doing something positive after that is essential,” said James Solis, 18, a member of BASE Chicago. “So here we are with our youth, giving them the game of baseball, one of the greatest games ever.”

Youth organizers, many of them local high school baseball and softball players, were at the forefront of both events.

They wanted the weekend to show what a safe haven in West Garfield Park can look like: older kids being empowered as leaders, and younger kids having a place to play in peace.

Monique Jones, 19, is on The BASE’s dance team and will attend Jackson State University in the fall. At Saturday’s part of the event, she ushered kids to their stations: infield practice, home-run derby, softball toss.

“We got everything that kids can do here instead of sitting at home in a bad environment,” Jones said. “Some of them probably think they don’t have anybody, but they have us.”

Uniting parents, community members and kids of all ages around baseball can build a neighborhood support system from the “cradle to the grave,” said Jerry Mack, president of the Garfield Park Little League.

That’s just in line with what the other groups involved in the event want, as Garfield Park Little League and The BASE Chicago are trying to create a pipeline that will keep kids on track from the time they’re playing tee-ball to when they graduate high school.

The BASE Chicago offers competitive travel baseball and softball programs for high schoolers, and it assists Garfield Park Little League with academic support, after-school programs and the fundamentals of the game. It’s had success: The BASE will send six members to college in the fall, and many of them started playing ball in the Garfield Park Little League.

Mack and Frank Brim restarted Garfield Park Little League about 15 years ago. Brim, now the director of Baseball Operations at The BASE, works alongside Mack to connect kids from Garfield Little League to high school travel baseball.

As Brim readies older kids for the chance to play at the college level, Mack helps the younger ones get started.

“At this age, I just want the kids to fall in love with the game.

Coming here on a hot day, playing out in the sun — they got to love to do this,” Mack said. “Because there’s so many distrac-

PROVIDED

Little leaguers wave their hats after completing an exhibition game on Sandlot Day. tions. If I can get them to fall in love with being out in this field, everything else is gravy.”

Mack wears his full uniform even to practices, a sign of respect for the game, while parents, volunteers and The BASE players assist in creating a community safe haven.

Coach Charles Dean pontificated in front of a group of elementary school-aged players, reminding them when to throw to each base. Nobody seemed to mind when Kamau “Lil Runner” Williams, 4, took a quick break, entertaining himself by throwing his glove against a fence.

Mo Hanks and Natoya Johnson of 900 ENT. Smokey Moe’Z BBQ fired up jerk chicken for the little leaguers. When it was time for lunch, De’Angelo Dean, 9, decided to keep playing away.

“I’ve been here for years,” Dean said. “You’ll start on the tee, you move up, you hit farther, you hit higher, you hit harder, you throw faster, harder, and then they teach you all the positions.”

Lil Runner and his other friends picked grass and practiced their cartwheels near the diamond. Just on the other side of the trees in Garfield Park, Mothers Against Community Gun Violence and Mayor Lori Lightfoot rallied in honor of Mieya Sims, a young woman shot and killed last year in West Garfield Park.

Nadine Bass, interim president for Garfield Park Little League, said the kids are not immune to the realities of gun violence in their neighborhood. There have been practices where gunfights can be seen and heard from the field, Bass said. Kids are taught to drop on the sand, pack their things and prepare to go home.

“It’s first nature. It’s become to the point where it’s first nature now,” Bass said. “This is what they are being fed, morning, noon and night. That’s why we want to build a safe haven for them.”

Eric Davis, executive director for The BASE, said he often hears from players who are too afraid to leave their homes for practice. He and Brim initiated a conversation with youth members of The BASE about two weeks ago, raising the question: “What’s the leading cause of violence?”

The dialogue led to last weekend’s solution: a youth-organized protest for peace the evening before Sandlot Day.

“It got the message out. That young voices are tired of the violence,” Davis said. “When you start a program, it’d be very easy if all we had to do was roll out balls and go to games. But we have to adapt and address the issues that are facing the community.”

The BASE and Garfield Park Little League have established small scholarship funds to support former players in need of books or groceries at college. Taliya Harris and Ashley Gaston, scholarship alumnae in attendance on Saturday, consider themselves Garfield Park little leaguers for life. They hope other young adults will join them in growing the league, paying it forward to their community that is not regularly highlighted for its positivity.

“This is a family. It’s another family,” Gaston said. “You want all your kids on the West Side to make it out of the ordinary.”

Bass chatted it up with Rep. Lakesia Collins, who represents part of Chicago and who stopped by to show support. Bass takes pride in keeping the fields pristine, and he reminded Collins again and again that Garfield Park Little League has yet to receive the funds to fix flooding issues on Diamond No. 5.

Bass’ wife, Nadine Bass, said neighborhood perceptions change when people join the baseball community around Garfield Park.

“We got baseball. We are here,” Bass said. “And our children aren’t running amok and shooting at each other. They’re tooted and booted to play ball. And they’re playing. They’re in their element as being children. That’s a positive.”

De’Angelo Dean eventually put his glove away and helped himself to free lunch. Davis hopes to see Dean play for The BASE one day. But for now, he was just glad to see the kids gathered around plates of jerk chicken.

“We want to win,” Davis said. “But winning looks different on the West Side.”

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Austin Weekly News, August 11, 2021

FLOODING

Seeking solutions from page 1 According to MWRD spokesperson Allison Fore, the flooding study kicked off at the start of this year. During the first half of the year, the MWRD talked to city officials and aldermen within the study area.

The second half of the year focused on reaching out to residents through several venues, including the presentations like the July 21 presentation.

Fore said that they would focus on measures that “alleviate localized flooding,” while the city would work on larger projects, such as widening underground pipes and expanding sewers.

During his presentation, Williams said that the plan would identify projects designed to reduce water back-ups that cause flooding in basements and keep the water off the streets, as well as projects that would be “resilient” in the face of flooding, among other priorities. The projects would also need to have the support of residents.

Fore said that, while MWRD will develop the plan, it will be up to the city to decide if they want to pursue it, either on their own or in partnership

with the water district. Williams said that the costs of the projects would come from both the MWRD and the city.

Fore said that the plan would most likely include projects that temporarily store rainwater before releasing it into the sewers to avoid overwhelming the pipes and reduce flooding. That may include “local rain gardens, green alleys [and] green roofs,” along with other water detention measures on vacant lots. Williams mentioned stormwater planters and curb extensions on major streets, which would serve a similar function while also improving the streetscape.

Williams said that MWRD wanted to avoid the situation where residents have no idea the study is happening until the results are released, so they are trying to get the word out to as many West Siders as possible.

He said that he would be happy to speak to “as many block clubs as possible.” Fore said that the study will be presented to the city “in the early 2022.”

Residents wishing to give their input can email Williams at tyrail4@yahoo.com. For more information about these and other MWRD stormwater projects, visit mwrd.org/stormwatermanagement-1.

CONTACT: igorst3@hotmail.com

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Metropolitan Water Reclamation District

A rendering of green infrastructure along a street. The image shows a stormwater planter, which helps stormwater flow into sewer system while providing above ground curb appeal.

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Austin Weekly News, August 11, 2021

West Side teacher’s lesson lay in solar panels on Conservatory

The solar project at the Garfield Park Conservatory could create more than $500,000 in energy savings over the next 15 years.

That money would be reinvested in community programs

By PASCAL SABINO Block Club Chicago

When Jasmine Jones started teaching physics at Al Raby High School in 2018, she noticed the topics covered in the science curriculum had little to do with the daily lives of her students living on the West Side.

The typical science lessons would help them in higher education and future careers, Jones said. But the standard curriculum wouldn’t teach students how science and engineering could be an answer to the social conditions rooted in a history of racism that residents of Garfield Park and other Black neighborhoods experience daily, she said.

Jones devised a solar project to allow her students to learn about science and technology while making a tangible impact on the issues that matter to youth in the neighborhood. Garfield Park is considered to be an environmental justice community, or a neighborhood where the impacts of pollution and environmental issues weigh especially hard on people who are Black and low-income.

“So many people are having asthma; so many people are having these health issues that impact quality of life,” Jones said.

“Our environment is unhealthy compared to other neighborhoods that are not Black and Brown. You clearly see a difference.”

The solar project makes the physics curriculum more “culturally relevant and justice-centered so we can actually look at real

issues happening in our communities and use science as a tool to intervene in that and for students to be empowered as civic activists,” Jones said.

Jones and her students are working with Central Road Energy to plan solar panels that can be installed on the roof of the Garfield Park Conservatory across the street from the school.

The team is developing a proposal to take advantage of the Illinois Solar for All program, a state initiative that provides tax incentives to encourage residents, businesses and organizations to bring clean energy to traditionally underserved communities.

The tax credits are so substantial that in many circumstances, they can completely offset the cost of building the solar array, said Ky Ajayi, president of Central Road Energy.

The Park District declined a request to interview conservatory staff about the project.

The solar array would reduce energy costs at the Garfield Park Conservatory by at least 65 percent, Ajayi said. That could save the conservatory upwards of $500,000 over the next 15 years, the team estimated.

Central Road Energy has done seven other Solar for All projects in the past three years. Its partners have included churches, nonprofits and a senior center, Ajayi said.

“All of these venues have been able to save money and use those savings to provide additional programming for the lowincome communities where they are located,” Ajayi said.

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The Garfield Park Conservatory.

The Al Raby students have been building community support for the project, working with engineers to develop their proposal and conducting shade studies to determine how much energy would be produced by the solar array year-round, Jones said. But part of why youth involvement is so important is because the students get a say in what community group and what programs will benefit from the energy savings, Jones said.

“They have such incredible and unique funds of knowledge just from growing up in the community and being around it all the time,” she said. “There’s a lot of decisionmaking. But I believe students are best positioned to make those decisions.”

Students vetted several potential partners and picked the conservatory as the site where the solar array would be installed after determining “they offer authentic social, economic and environmental contributions to the community that are valuable enough to partner with,” Jones said.

The young people are also drafting proposals for how the money saved by the solar array should be used on community programs. One plan proposes working with the

conservatory to use the savings to create a community garden “that we can harvest at different times in the year and give food away to unhoused individuals,” Jones said.

Ajayi, Jones and the Al Raby students are looking for a developer that would fund the installation at the conservatory and cash in on the energy tax credits.

The process has allowed the students to be more civically engaged in the neighborhood they live in while cultivating a more advanced understanding of the sciences and technologies that impact the environment, Jones said.

“Empowering students to use their science knowledge to intervene and begin to take steps toward creating lasting change is really powerful,” Jones said. “We’re not just talking about it. We’re doing something about it.”

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Austin Weekly News, August 11, 2021

I

Let’s make roller skating an Olympic sport

f there’s one thing Chicago does well, it’s roller skating!

Every day on social media, there are those who recall the heyday of the best skating rinks around.

As a teen I went to the Norridge skating rink. As an adult, I went to Rainbow Skating Rink.

So it was very wonderful to hear about the roller rink they opened off Pulaski and Madison. No, it’s not an independent building with an indoor rink but rather an outdoor apparatus placed on a previously empty lot. As I watched the news report, the police commander said it is also a safe space. They host movies there at night and the children are flocking. The citizens of Chicago should demand of every person who breathes air on Earth, that this spot remain a safe space. Our children deserve it!

I took delight in watching all the different levels of skating occurring within the rink.

From amateur to pro, people took their spin around the rink. I’m going to admit, my heart went out to all the young children for whom this was the first time they ever had the opportunity to rollerskate. What for some of us is a fond memory of the past has been missing from a lot of these children’s lives. They are now getting that opportunity and we need to make sure it continues!

While we’re enjoying the beauty that is roller-skating, let’s begin a campaign to make roller-skating an Olympic sport!

Somewhere on the West Side of Chicago — or to be fair, within the city limits — there is a GOAT who will put on a pair of skates and do things nobody thinks is possible. I have seen skating routines where it looked

like they were gliding on air.

But unlike ice skating which requires specialty rinks, roller rinks are a lot easier to create.

If you’ve got a smooth surface, even the streets can serve that purpose. I recall street skating was a phenomenon in the late ’70s and early ’80s. Men would glide down the street, carrying huge boom boxes while rollerskating. I can’t say why, but it ceased.

Ice skating has long dominated the sports world for the Olympics. And ice skating is, for the most part, a cold weather sport. So those who participate in it are a very limited group. But roller skating … that is where Black folks show up and show off ! A campaign to get rollerskating certified as an Olympic sport can be a unifying opportunity. When was the last time you heard of our young people even thinking of attempting a sport that could take them to the Olympics? It is rare.

Gymnastics is wonderful, but it is extremely costly. With roller-skating, people can perfect their skills literally at home.

Prior to writing this column, I did Google to see why roller-skating is not an Olympic sport.

All the responses I saw seemed very trite.

To sum it up, there’s been no concerted effort to push for it. So let Chicago be the first on the map to get it started. Chicago already has a “Bike the Drive Day.” Why not add roller-skating too? Let’s see how the politicians and those in charge refute the idea of allowing roller-skating as an Olympic event when there are hundreds of thousands of young people carrying signs demanding it?

ARLENE JONES

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Austin Weekly News, August 11, 2021

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Austin Weekly News, August 11, 2021

Nonprofit planning historic scavenger hunt in Austin The event on Aug. 14 at Austin Town Hall designed to unite young people from Austin and Oak Park through local history

By IGOR STUDENKOV Contributing Reporter

Teens from Austin and Oak Park will get a chance to learn about the history of the two communities that get to know each other during the Aug. 14 Historical Scavenger Hunt.

Now in its second year, the event is organized by YourPassion1st, an Oak Park-based nonprofit that helps teens become entrepreneurs in creative, sports and culinary fields.

Founder Chris Thomas said that he originally came up with the idea during the racial justice protests that erupted in the wake of the killing of George Floyd in 2020. He said he wanted to do something that would bridge the divides between the two communities and alCredit: Eric Allix Rogers low teens from Austin and Oak Austin Town Hall Park to get to know each other.

This year, the scavenger hunt will kick off at 9 a.m. in front tions, he explained. of Austin Town Hall, 5610 W. Lake St., and Like last year, the scavenger hunt will last until 3 p.m. The objects will be scattered highlight “certain people, certain houses” throughout Austin and Oak Park, and teens in both communities, as well as historical will use bicycles to get from one spot to the events. Thomas admitted that, as of Aug. next. Thomas said that they were still put5, he was still in the process of putting toting together the details, but he expects to gether the clues and objects the teens will be have everything ironed out in time for the hunting for. event.

He said that he’s been consulting with the Thomas explained that YourPassion1st helps young entrepreneurs through work- Historical Society of Oak Park and River Forshops, events and holding contests where est, the Oak Park Public Library and Austin teens create their pitches individually and residents. Participants will be able to use the as a group. According to data the nonprofit Divvy bikes provided on site to get around provided, last year 57 percent of the partici- town and, if all goes accordion go to plans that pants leveraged the nonprofit to earn paid are still being worked out, the nonprofit may work either during or after the program’s raffle off free bikes to the young people.

As with other events YourPassion1st is orcompletion. ganizing this year, they will take COVID-19 In addition to Chicago teens, the nonprofit also recruited teens from Brazil and South precautions based on city recommendations.

“We will not require masks, but we will Africa to participate in the scavenger hunt have masks available there and we will ask by using virtual reality apps. people to do what they’re comfortable with,” “Really, it was a community-bridging event, a chance for young adults in both com- he said.

Thomas said he’s glad to be doing his part munities to meet each other, ride around on the bikes and interact with each other and for the youth and the community.

“I’m happy,” he said. “I’m honored and I’m work together to win a prize,” Thomas said.

He said that the event went so well last humbled to do what I love, which is really year that he wants to do it again this year. helping to change the community and bring He said that it’s important for youth to peace.”

For the most up-to-date information about learn the history of the area in order to give them a better understanding of their the Historical Scavenger Hunt, visit https:// present. The event also ties into YourPas- www.facebook.com/events/304003611487908/. sion1st’s mission, because it allows youth to practice networking and make connec- CONTACT: igorst3@hotmail.com

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Austin Weekly News, August 11, 2021

JOBS

Applicants wanted from page 1 9,000 jobs have been posted on the site.

Each industry will be featured in one week of the initiative based on the following schedule: ■ Week

1 | August 2: Manufacturing

■ Week 2 | August 9: Hospitality, Tourism, and Food Service ■ Week 3 | August 16: Transportation, Distribution & Logistics ■ Week 4 | August 23: Healthcare ■ Week 5 | August 30: Technology

The initiative kicked off on Aug. 2 and runs through Sept. 2.

Job-seekers and employers can register for various activities, which are taking place virtually, at hirechicago2021.org.

“We have a responsibility to help people get back to work,” said Karin M. Norington-Reaves, the founding CEO of the Chicago Cook Workforce Partnership. “Unemployment insurance will be running out soon and so we’re making sure that people put their best foot forward and get in front of employers.”

Residents who are interested in jobs can participate in workshops and pre-screening activities on Monday through Tuesdays, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Interviews are scheduled for Wednesday and Thursday, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., according to the Hire Chicago website.

Norington-Reaves said that residents who need access to computers to participate in the initiative’s activities can visit one of the Partnership’s job centers, such as the Westside American Job Center at 605 S. Albany Ave.

A screenshot of the home page of Chicago Hires, a new virtual job initiative launched by the city of Chicago.

Norington-Reaves explained that Hire Chicago was among the actions recommended in a report drafted by Mayor Lightfoot’s Economic Recovery Task Force, which launched in April 2020.

“Employers are saying they can’t find people and have all these openings, so we want to provide a means to connect these two populations and that’s what we do at the Chicago Cook Workforce Partnership every day,” she said.

In a video statement announcing the launch of Hire Chicago, Mayor Lightfoot said the initiative comes amid a changing economic landscape.

“The pandemic has changed us individually as people and,

collectively, as a workforce. What worked in January 2020 no longer works today, as our priorities have shifted and our lifestyles have changed,” said Mayor Lightfoot.

“As we continue to work towards an equitable and inclusive economic recovery in Chicago, we are making sure that companies relocating and expanding here have access to our incredibly talented and diverse workforce, and that, in return, they provide good-paying, sustainable jobs and careers,” she said.

For more information or to register to participate in Hire Chicago, visit: https://hirechicago2021.org/.

CONTACT: info@vfpress.news

PLATO LEARNING ACADEMY "Working Collaboratively, Thinking Critically, Achieving Academically"

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Austin Weekly News, August 11, 2021

11

Public safety initiatives discussed at community briefing Mayor Lightfoot’s office hosted meeting on Aug. 4 to update residents on civil oversight ordinance

By SHELBY E. HAWKINS AustinTalks

The mayor’s office held a community meeting on Aug. 4 to update Chicagoans on the just passed Civilian Oversight Ordinance and recently implemented Alternate Response Model.

The briefing, hosted by Tina Hone, the city’s chief engagement officer, is part of an ongoing effort to address longstanding public concern over policing. There have been calls for reform for decades, especially with how police engage with communities of color.

After the 2014 police killing of 17-year-old Laquan McDonald, the Police Accountability Task Force was created to rebuild trust be-

tween local residents and the police department.

In December 2015, an investigation of the CPD was initiated to determine if officers were engaging in a pattern of unlawful conduct. That led to a consent decree with the U.S. Department of Justice that the police department is still under.

In recent days, the police department has agreed on a tentative contract with the Fraternal Order of Police that will impact the consent decree the city is under.

The plan calls for increased community policing, more information on how officers train on the use of force and requires officers to file paperwork every time they point their gun at someone. It also bans officers from changing their testimony after viewing video and prohibits investigations of anonymous complaints.

Last month, the Chicago City Council approved a civilian oversight ordinance to increase community engagement and improve policing.

The ordinance creates district councils or elected bodies for each of the city’s 22 police

districts, with three members serving fouryear terms in each district.

The first elections will be held in February 2023, at the same time other city officials are elected. Each member will receive $500 per month, or $6,000 per year, to serve.

The goal is to improve police-community relations and policing by collaborating with members of each neighborhood to develop community policing initiatives and restorative justice programs.

Before the 2023 district council elections, the city council will nominate 14 people to serve on an interim basis, seven of whom will be appointed by Mayor Lori Lightfoot.

Those interested in serving should have relevant experience and can’t work for the police department, the Civilian Office of Police Accountability office (COPA) or the police board.

They will represent the North, South or West side, and two commissioners have to be between the ages of 18 and 24.

Their key powers will include identifying candidates for key leadership positions – though the mayor will maintain control in hiring and firing the police superintendent –

drafting police policy and promoting community engagement.

Wednesday night’s briefing also touched on the newly implemented alternate response model, which limits the response of police officers in cases of mental health emergencies by integrating mental health professionals into CPD. The aim is to de-escalate situations that don’t require an officer.

This Framework for Mental Health Equity allocates $8 million to expand services in communities of highest need through trauma-informed centers of care, $3.5 million to strengthen mental health clinics operated by the Chicago Department of Public Health and $3 million to increase team-based care outside of clinics to help people with more complex needs.

Mental health professionals will be staffed in the city’s 9-1-1 call center since many mental health calls can be handled over the phone, Hone said. In other instances that require an in-person response, mental health professionals will be dispatched from the 9-1-1 call center.

CONTACT: austintalks.org@gmail.com

With suicide increasing among Blacks, help is available Suicide is 10th leading cause of death for Americans, second leading cause of death for people 10 to 24

By SHELBY E. HAWKINS AustinTalks

An Austin resident knows firsthand the importance of suicide prevention.

The West Sider, who asked to remain anonymous due to the sensitivity of the topic, cited external circumstances as a driving force leading her to want to “escape.” There had been a death in her family, and she had experienced trauma and violence.

But she also desperately wanted to live.

The woman has also been diagnosed with what she calls a “hidden illness” without naming it, saying it’s something she carries with her each day despite it being invisible.

It’s manageable, she said, now that she has the help of medication and a doctor.

Her biggest tool is her support system; the people around her have aided her in finding the help she needs.

“Sometimes help is put on us by people that love us noticing a change in activity or mood, “ she said, “Sometimes you have to accept help or seek out help.”

She wants people going through a difficult time to know: You are not alone. Whatever you’re going through, somebody else has already been there.

See if you can hang on for five minutes, then another five minutes and five minutes more after that. Sometimes you have to live your life in compartments, and you can get through five minutes of almost anything.

Seek help. Go to a friend or to a hospital if you’re having suicidal thoughts.

And lastly, she said, you are loved.

“The Changing Face of Suicide: African

American Youth” was the focus earlier this year of the 2021 Illinois Suicide Prevention Summit, held virtually because of COVID-19.

Dr. Tami Benton spoke about the increasing rate of suicide among Black adolescents. Black children are more likely to be diagnosed with a behavioral disorder than an internalized mental issue, Benton said.

Black youth suicide in on an upward trend while rates for other races/ethnicities are declining, said Benton, executive director and chair of the Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry and Behavioral Science at the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia.

These trends hold true in Chicago as well.

While exact reasons for the rise in Black suicide are not entirely clear, exposure to traumatic content, such as videos depicting brutality against Black people, can have adverse effects on mental health.

Tandra Rutledge, board member of the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention and director of business development at Riveredge Hospital in Forest Park, said suicide prevention research is a newer field. There’s not a lot of research about suicide prevention, specifically regarding the Black community.

Rutledge said one reason she got involved with AFSP was because she understood how much representation matters.

“I didn’t see a lot of people that looked like me reaching out to communities that I look like. I made it a personal mission of mine to understand the cultural nuances within the Black community and the stigmas that exist.”

A way to combat a lack of racial equity in the mental health field is to provide healthcare professionals with cultural humility training,

Rutledge said. There aren’t enough providers who understand the experiences of people of color.

“When I see increasing rates in Black and brown communities as well as the LGBTQ community, I’m struck by the fact that there are entire demographics of individuals who are left behind,” she said.

Rutledge emphasized how racism and discrimination are stressors that affects mental health, but it’s often now talked about as a risk factor.

Suicide is the 10th leading cause of the death in the nation for people of all demographics, and it’s the second leading cause of death in people ages 10 to 24.

Nearly 45,000 Americans died from suicide last year, according to the New York Times, and even more people suffer from suicidal ideation and suicide attempts.

The main risk factors for Black youth are neighborhood safety; racism and discrimination; sexual and gender identity; and adverse childhood experiences.

Adverse childhood experiences can be anything from economic hardship and parental divorce or separation to parental incarceration and violence in the home.

A strong familial support system can be a protective factor, as well as a strong relationship with ethnic and racial identity, spiritual engagement and stable family housing.

A poll conducted by AFSP found 90% of Americans would want to help a loved one if they suspected they were suicidal. But that same number said they wouldn’t know what to say or do.

Rutledge suggests be aware of changes in

mood, such as irritability and anger, behavioral changes like becoming more distant or engaging in risky situations, and indirect or direct language about wanting to die.

These conversations are difficult to have, but the mental health advocate advises asking individuals directly about how they are feeling. Say things like, “I notice you seem more irritable, is something wrong?”

If someone is using language suggesting they’re having suicidal ideation like, “I want to go to sleep and not wake up,” you can ask them, “Are you thinking about killing yourself ?”

If the answer is yes, then get them help.

Anyone who is suicidal needs to meet with a healthcare professional. That could mean calling 9-1-1 so a wellness check can be conducted.

If you are physically with someone and suspect their life is in immediate danger, take them to the emergency room.

Rutledge said someone doesn’t need to be an expert to help; just be prepared to be a good human. Listen empathically, and give support and validation.

It’s also important to remember is it not our responsibility to make others feel better. Those who are struggling need professional help.

If you are having thoughts of suicide, reach out to someone you trust and tell them you’re not OK. There are ways (even virtually) to get connected with a mental health professional and find treatment.

Find information here about how to talk to a loved one and find suicide prevention trainings.

The national suicide hotline is (800) 273-8255; both calls and texts are accepted.

12

Austin Weekly News, August 11, 2021

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

Budget duties include assisting in the development, analysis and application of performance measures with regard to Village services and resources; preparing, modifying, tracking and monitoring Village expenses and transfers; and conducting budget-related research and analysis. Applicants are encouraged to visit the Village of Oak Park’s website http://www.oak-park.us/ jobs. Interested and qualified applicants must complete a Village of Oak Park application. First review of applications August 16, 2021..

TEACHER AND TEACHER AIDE MINI ME BUNCH seeks teacher and teacher aide to enhance and expand daycare serving children ages 6 weeks to 5 years. Teacher must have at least Associates’ degree in Early Childhood Education.

Minimum 1 year experience preferred in each position. Must love children and be outgoing, patient, flexible. Contact 773-521-9499

HELP WANTED

HELP WANTED

HELP WANTED

River Forest Public Schools District 90

District 90 is seeking qualified and experienced applicants for the following positions:

• English Language Learners Teacher (Full-time at Roosevelt Middle School and Part-time FTE 0.50 at Lincoln Elementary School) • School Social Worker (Part-time FTE 0.50 at Lincoln Elementary School & Part-time FTE 0.50 Willard Elementary School) • Physical Education Teacher ( Part-time FTE 0.60 at Lincoln Elementary School)

For detailed qualifications requirements and job duties, please visit our website at https://www.district90.org/about/ employment for our complete list of employment opportunities.

Interested candidates should complete the online application available at www.district90.org. Please do not send hard copies of supporting documentation, i.e. cover letters, resumes, licensure, etc. to River Forest Schools District 90; instead, upload these materials onto the online job application system for proper processing.

HIRING BONUS!

Part Time Positions Available for 2021-22 school year After-School Recreation / Day Care Worker Youth Development Specialist on site at Oak Park public schools The Day Care Program of Hephzibah Children’s Association is accepting applications for nurturing individuals to provide care and supervision of 5-11-year-old children in the After School Day Care program on site at Oak Park public schools. The days and hours are Mon – Fri from 2:30-6:00 PM and 2:00-6:00 PM on Wednesdays.

Plan and supervise arts and crafts, indoor & outdoor play, games, sports, homework help and more.

Requirements include: -previous experience working with children -6 semester hours in education, recreation, social work or related college courses desired Program starts mid-August and runs through the 2021-22 school year.

Contact MJ Joyce at mjjoyce@hephzibahhome.org Equal Opportunity Employer We are an inclusive employer and welcome people from all backgrounds to apply

HIRING BONUS!

HEPHZIBAH DAY CARE PROGRAM SITE SUPERVISOR Hephzibah Children’s Association offers after school day care on site at each of the Oak Park elementary schools.

The Day Care Program is accepting applications for a Site Supervisor for the 2021-2022 school year to provide supervision to childcare staff as well as care and supervision of 5-11-year-old children.

Regular days and hours are Monday through Friday from 2:30 - 6:00 PM, Wednesday 1:30 – 6:00 PM. Additional hours on school closing days, in coordination with the school district calendar. May work other hours during school holidays and for staff meetings.

Associate degree in child development or early childhood education, or the equivalent in child development or education desired.

Previous experience working with children required.

CITY RENTALS

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

ROOMS FOR RENT Large Sunny Room with fridge, microwave.

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

Mercedes, Corvette, Mercedes,Porsche, Porsche, Corvette, Ferrari’s, MuscleCars, Cars, Ferrari’s,Jaguars, Jaguars, Muscle Mustang && Mopars Mopars Mustang $$ Top $$ all makes, $$ Top $$ all makes,Etc. Etc.

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Contact MJ Joyce at: mjjoyce@hephzibahhome.org Equal Opportunity Employer We are an inclusive employer and welcome people from all backgrounds to apply

SUBURBAN RENTALS

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• Wednesday Journal • Forest Park Review

• Riverside/Brookfield Landmark

AUSTIN RENAISSANCE APARTMENTS

A HUD subsidized affordable Apartment property announces the opening of its waiting list for both One and Two Bedroom Apartments! Resident rent is approximately 30% of gross household income, some restrictions apply. Our property is located on Washington Blvd in Chicago’s Austin neighborhood.

Apartments offered with an occupancy of one to four persons. Properties feature modern kitchens, include appliances, and offer onsite maintenance. Austin Renaissance will accept requests for application packages by U.S. Mail postmarked no later than , September 15, 2021. Send or email a written request for an application package that includes your name, mailing address. Daytime telephone number, Email address, and the number of persons in your household to: Town Center Realty Group LLC, PO Box 64, Huntley IL 60142-0064 or Email requests to mrpaul.tcrg@gmail.com Application packages available by mail or email delivery only. No walk-ins accepted.

OAK PARK THERAPY OFFICE Oak Park: Free wifi; flexible leasing, and offices nicely furnished right down to the Kleenex. Secure building & friendly colleagues, often giving referrals to other office mates.

Shared Waiting room, Conference room & option to join Peer Supervision Group. Ideal for new practice or 2nd location.

WANTED TO BUY

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

Program starts mid-August and runs through the school year.

SUBURBAN RENTALS CITY RENTALS

GRANTS SUPERVISOR The Village of Oak Park is seeking qualified candidates for the position of Grants Supervisor in the Development Customer Services Department. This position will perform a variety of responsible for developing. Administering and coordinating activities related to Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) and other grant-funded programs for the Village.

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

Position opened until filled.

OFFICE SPACE FOR RENT

Find your new apartment this Saturday from 10 am – 4pm at 35 Chicago Avenue.

Or call us toll free at 1-833-440-0665 for an appointment.

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Collector James

Austin Weekly News, August 11, 2021

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IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF COOK COUNTY, ILLINOIS COUNTY DEPARTMENT CHANCERY DIVISION U.S. BANK NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, AS TRUSTEE FOR RESIDENTIAL ASSET SECURITIES CORPORATION, HOME EQUITY MORTGAGE ASSET-BACKED PASSTHROUGH CERTIFICATES, SERIES 2005-KS12 Plaintiff, -v.THEODORE MULLINS, DONALD SAWYER (A MINOR) AND JAMILAH ASHKIRAT (A MINOR),

BY THEIR MOTHER AND NEXT FRIEND, LESLIE GARCIA AND LESLIE GARCIA INDIVIDUALLY, UNKNOWN OWNERS AND NONRECORD CLAIMANTS Defendants 19 CH 14641 909 N. AUSTIN BLVD 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 February 26, 2021, an agent for The Judicial Sales Corporation, will at 10:30 AM on September 1, 2021, at The Judicial Sales Corporation, One South Wacker Drive, CHICAGO, IL, 60606, sell at a public sale to the highest bidder, as set forth below, the following described real estate: Commonly known as 909 N. AUSTIN BLVD, CHICAGO, IL 60651 Property Index No. 16-05-418-0400000 The real estate is improved with a single family residence.

The judgment amount was $166,630.86.

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, 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 311568.

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. 311568 Attorney Code. 43932 Case Number: 19 CH 14641 TJSC#: 41-1144 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 14641 I3173413

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) 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. 14-19-10514 Attorney ARDC No. 00468002 Attorney Code. 21762 Case Number: 2019CH13260 TJSC#: 41-827 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 # 2019CH13260 I3172858

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF COOK COUNTY, ILLINOIS COUNTY DEPARTMENT CHANCERY DIVISION DEUTSCHE BANK NATIONAL TRUST COMPANY, AS TRUSTEE FOR ARGENT SECURITIES INC., ASSET-BACKED PASS-THROUGH CERTIFICATES, SERIES 2005-W4 Plaintiff, -v.ROSEMARY ANDERSON, WILLIE ANDERSON, STATE OF ILLINOIS - DEPARTMENT OF REVENUE, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA Defendants 2019CH13260 3916 W WILCOX ST CHICAGO, IL 60624 NOTICE OF SALE PUBLIC NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale entered in the above cause on April 26, 2021, an agent for The Judicial Sales Corporation, will at 10:30 AM on August 26, 2021, at The Judicial Sales Corporation, One South Wacker Drive, CHICAGO, IL, 60606, sell at a public sale to the highest bidder, as set forth below, the following described real estate: Commonly known as 3916 W WILCOX ST, CHICAGO, IL 60624 Property Index No. 16-14-102-0280000 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,

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Austin Weekly News, August 11, 2021

Lawsuit: Police pointed guns at children in warrantless raid Two children awoke with guns pointed at their heads, the suit says. They are struggling with post-traumatic stress disorder, according to the complaint

By PASCAL SABINO Block Club Chicago

Chicago Police unlawfully burst into an Austin home and awakened two sleeping children with guns pointed at their faces, a lawsuit filed by a West Side family alleges.

The incident that took place Aug. 7, 2019, has left the children struggling with emotional scars and trauma, their father, Steven Winters, said in a federal lawsuit filed against the city and the officers involved. The children were 4 and 9 at the time of the raid.

Officers kicked in the family’s door without a warrant and entered without their consent, the lawsuit says. The officers also did not knock or identify themselves before

kicking in the door, the family said.

Bodycam footage obtained by the family’s attorney, Al Hofeld Jr., shows officers rushing into the apartment building up to the third floor where the family lives. An officer kicked at the family’s door and shouted, “Open the door!” the video showed. A few seconds later, the officers kicked the door down and pushed inside with guns drawn, the video showed.

As police raided the home, Winters said, “We’re asleep, man. What’s going on?”

Chicago Police declined to comment on the incident since the lawsuit is ongoing. A statement from spokesperson Don Terry obtained

by CBS2 before the lawsuit was filed said the incident took place “three months prior to the implementation of the Department’s Firearm Pointing Incidents directive,” which restricts when officers can point their weapons at suspects.

The updated firearm pointing policy was one of the court-mandated reforms outlined in a federal consent decree. The consent decree reforms stemmed from the fallout surrounding the fatal police shooting of 17-year-old Laquan McDonald in 2016 that led

to widespread protests and a Justice Department review of the Chicago Police Department.

Mayor Lori Lightfoot said at a Thursday news conference that in the years since the raid of the Winters’ home, Chicago Police has updated policies on foot chases and search warrants.

“That was an incident that occurred back in 2019. The rules have changed. There’s always more that we can learn, and the rules changing doesn’t take away that family’s sense of violations and trauma, I understand that. But the rules have been changed,” Lightfoot said.

Citing the Justice Department’s 2017 review of Chicago Police, the lawsuit says the department “has a pattern and practice of using excessive force against citizens, including children.”

The family’s legal complaint said police mistakenly entered the home while searching for two men, one of whom may have had a gun, who were fighting at a nearby gas station.

After entering the apartment, officers forced Winters to the ground and held him down at gunpoint with a knee on his back, the

lawsuit says.

When officers searched the young girls’ bedroom, they pointed their guns at the crying girls’ heads, the lawsuit said. One of the girls was so terrified, she wet the bed, the lawsuit says.

Both girls will “require counseling in order to cope with the long-term, psychological injuries inflicted by defendants’ display of excessive force,” the lawsuit says. The children still struggle with symptoms of posttraumatic stress disorder, the lawsuit says, including nightmares, bed-wetting, trouble sleeping, decreased appetite, crying fits and fear of police.

The girls’ mother, Jessie Evans, has been on medication to manage depression since the incident. She regularly has “gruesome nightmares of police shooting and killing her family members,” the complaint says.

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CONTACT: michael@austinweeklynews.com

‘I almost didn’t run,’ Davis says at reelection launch

Congressman Danny K. Davis was flanked by political power players at Aug. 8 campaign launch

By MICHAEL ROMAIN Editor

During a campaign event outside of his West Side district office at 2813 W. 5th Ave, longtime Congressman Danny K. Davis (7th) announced on Aug. 8 that he’s running for another term.

Based on the showing at the launch event, the congressman has already significant support. Former Gov. Pat Quinn, World Business Chicago CEO Andrea Zopp, Ald. Pat Dowell (3rd), Ald Jason Ervin (28th), Ald. Chris Taliaferro (29th), City Treasurer Melissa ConyearsErvin and Cook County Assessor Fritz Kaegi were among the slew of powerbrokers in attendance. Cook County Board President Toni Preckwinkle was not present, but sent a surrogate as a show of support.

During his remarks, Davis talked about the Second Chance Act — legislation the West Side congressman introduced in 2007 that has helped smoothen the path to reentry for prisoners around the country.

Davis also touted the Community Renewal

and New Markets Act, legislation that the congressman said was “the last bill that Bill Clinton signed when he was president” and that “has brought billions of dollars in reinvestment to our disadvantaged communities all over America.”

Davis, who took office in 1997, said his decision to run for reelection wasn’t necessarily a foregone conclusion.

“I almost decided that I wouldn’t run for office,” the congressman said. “Well, I got a book to write. I’ve got some other things to do.”

Davis, however, said the political climate is favorable to Black lawmakers, citing the role his colleague, South Carolina Congressman Jim Clyburn, played in Joe Biden’s presidential bid. Many political observers consider the South Carolina powerbroker’s endorsement of Biden as the decisive factor that helped him win the Democratic Primary election.

Davis said that leverage among Democratic congresspersons, particularly Black lawmakers, has extended to policymaking in the House.

“Let me tell you, this environment is so good,” Davis said, before talking about his role as chairman of the Worker and Family Support subcommittee on the influential House Ways and Means Committee.

As subcommittee chairman, Davis helped steer through $1.9 trillion in federal stimulus contained in this year’s American Rescue Plan Act, legislation that resulted in increased child

MICHAEL ROMAIN/Editor

Congressman Danny K. Davis launches his reelection bid outside of his West Side offices on Aug. 8. tax credits for low-income working families.

As with the last two primary elections, Davis will face at least one much younger opponent attempting to stake a claim to the left of the incumbent.

Austin resident Kina Collins ran against Davis in the last Democratic Primary, but she’s coming in with much more momentum this time around, garnering major endorsements and even doubling Davis’ second quarter fundraising total.

On Sunday, Davis addressed what he said was a criticism he’d heard Collins lodge

against him, involving his lack of presence in the community. The congressman’s response may have reflected just how tense the race can get in the months to come.

“My mama would say that the good Lord said, ‘A liar [won’t] tarry [in God’s] sight,” Davis said.

In June, Gov. J.B. Pritzker signed a bill moving Illinois’ primary election from March 2022 to June 2022, in order to make voting more accessible for residents.

CONTACT: michael@austinweeklynews.com

Austin Weekly News, August 11, 2021

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Austin Weekly News, August 11, 2021

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