Austin Weekly News 113022

Finalists for Lake/Kedzie project announced

Three nalists took part in Invest South/West projects, two have West Side ties

By IGOR STUDENKOV Staff Reporter

The Chicago Department of Planning and Development (DPD) released a short list of architec tural firms and developers to build three mixeduse buildings near the Kedzie/Lake Green Line ‘L’ station – and many of them are no strangers to the city’s ef for ts to bring developments to the historically neglected West Side.

The project, which is part of Mayor Lori Lightfoot’s Invest South/West initiative, groups the lots into three sites. The first site at the northeast corner of the intersection spans 3148-56 W. Lake St., the former location of the Garfield Park Community Garden. At the southwest corner, the second site includes 3201-09 W. Lake St. and 201 N. Kedzie Ave. The third site includes 112 N. Kedzie Ave. and 3201-15 W. Maypole Ave.

Last August, DPD invited developers and architects to apply for the project. The developers and architects were then supposed to form teams, and each team would present the proposals to

Austin poetry jam a platform for local

The North Austin Branch librar y’s Poetry Jam: My Voice, My Power open mic session was held Nov. 26

ytellers

By SHANEL ROMAIN Community Narrative Reporter

Doreen Vanlee had something to get of f her chest. She’s miffed about “Candyman,” the 1992 hor ror film that depicts a spirit who murders anyone

who speaks his name five times in the mirror. The film is famously set in the iconic Cabrini-Green housing project, a place Vanlee called home before the last vestiges of the project were demolished

SHANEL ROMAIN/Sta

Denise Stewart, of Austin, reads a poem dur ing an open mic session held at the North Austin Branch librar y on Nov. 26.

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Speaker Welch re ects on growing Ho aj it

By PETER HANCOCK Capitol News Illinois

SPRINGFIELD – Illinois House

Emanuel “Chris” Welch, who announced he has the support ter m as House speaker, says forward to governing with an super majority than he had during two years.

“Expanding our caucus was a priority of mine,” he said interview with Capitol News “But from a policy standpoint, continue to build on the budget we’ve done Expanding our caucus would not have been possible if people didn’t believe Democrats were doing the right things.”

Welch, a Maywood native and Democrat from Hillside whose district spans much of Proviso Township, was elected speaker in January 2021 after most in the Democratic caucus refused to back longtime Speaker Michael Madigan, who’d been implicated in a bribery scandal and has since been indicted on corruption charges.

During his first two years, Democrats held a 73-45 advantage in the House, and Welch used that to pass landmark le gislation, including the Clean Energy Jobs Act, which provides state support for carbon-free energy production and seeks to phase out fossil fuel power plants by 2045.

That super majority also enabled Democrats to control the redistricting process when lawmakers drew new maps for the General Assembly, cong ressional districts and the Supreme Court.

In the elections that followed, Democrats widened their majority in the House by at least four seats – one race remained too close to call as of Monday – while also capturing a 5-2 majority on the state supreme court.

House

of Spring eld Center in Spring eld in this January 2021. Welch says that he has enough votes to be House speaker for a second term and he looks forward to working with an even larger supermajority of Democrats than during his rst term.

In all, while Democrats who ran for statewide of fices received, on average, about 55 percent of the vote, Democrats captured roughly 66 percent of the state le gislative seats.

When asked whether gerrymandering played a role in those results, Welch said it did not.

“What I would say is that the maps reflect the diversity of our state,” he said. “And one of the things that I said as the leader of our caucus and the speaker of the House last year when we were going through that process, that any fair map would reflect the diversity of our state. And if you look at the election results, the election results show that.”

He said the results in the House were an example of that.

“We elected our first Vietnamese American to the House,” he said. “We elected our first Korean American to the House. We elected our first Arab American Muslim to the House We elected our first

Indian American Muslim to the House

We elected our first South Asian, Pacific Islander American to the House. Diversity is well represented in the Illinois House, and we look like Illinois, and we look like America. And we should be proud of that.” Welch said one key factor in the election that worked in Democrats’ favor was the U.S. Supreme Court’s decision in June overtur ning Roe v. Wade That decision, in the case of Dobbs v. Jackson Women’s Health Organization, said the U.S. Constitution does not protect a woman’s right to have an abortion, effectively giving states the authority to regulate that procedure as they see fit

“It certainly played a role in what happened on Nov. 8,” he said. “You know, I said it in a number of speeches here during the campaign that November was coming. And if you look at what happened here in Illinois and across the country, that decision really

AU STIN WEEKLY news

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

Senior Editor Bob Uphues

Digital Publishing & Technology Manager Briana Higgins

Reporter Igor Studenkov

ommunity Narrative Repor ter Shanel Romain

ting Par tners Block Club, Austin Talks

Columnist Arlene Jones

Staff Photographer Alex Rogals

Design/Production Manager Andrew Mead ditorial Design Manager Javier Govea Designer Susan McKelvey

ales & Marketing Representavies icholls, Marc Stopeck, Kamil Brady Business & Development Manager Mary Ellen Nelligan

Donor Relations Manager/Food Editor Melissa Elsmo ales & Digital Development Manager Stacy Coleman

Circulation Manager Jill Wagner Publisher Dan Haley

Special Projec ts Manager Susan Walker

,

Darnell Shields, Sheila Solomon,

y

State’s rst Black House speaker says he has the suppor t for another term, touts diversity of Democratic supermajority

Speaker Emanuel “Chris” Welch speaks during a news conference at the Bank

Right to unionize amendment projected to pass

The ballot measure was carr ying an estimated 53% of total ballots as of Nov. 15, paving way for stronger collective bargaining

leverage for workers

By PETER HANCOCK Editor

and engage in collective bargaining

gover nments from enacting laws that interfere with that right, including passage of so-called “right-to-work” laws, which prohibit requiring membership in a union as a condition of employment.

On election night, the Vote Yes for Workers’ Rights campaign declared victory, but media outlets were slow to confir m that due to the complicated rules in Illinois for passing a constitutional amendment.

The state constitution provides two pathways for passing an amendment. It must either be approved by 60 percent of all those voting on the measure or by more than 50 percent of all ballots cast in the election.

percent of the votes cast on that issue but about 53 percent of all the ballots cast in the election.

“From day one, the Vote Yes for Workers’ Rights campaign has been based on the simple idea that every Illinois worker deserves better Better pay, stronger benefits, and safer workplaces don’t just help workers thrive; they strengthen our state and keep us all safe,” Illinois AFL-CIO President Tim Drea said in a statement on election night.

SPRINGFIELD

– Illinois voters have approved a state constitutional amendment guaranteeing workers the right to organize

Estimates compiled by multiple media outlets projected on Nov. 15 that the ballot measure had support on an estimated 53 percent of the total ballots cast in the election, with more than 95 percent of the ballots counted. That’s enough for approval under one of two paths to passage for a constitutional amendment in Illinois. The amendment, which will be added to the Bill of Rights of the Illinois Constitution, states that employees have a fundamental right to organize and bargain collectively “for the purpose of ne gotiating wages, hours and working conditions, and to protect their economic welfare and safety at work.”

It also prohibits state and local

According to projections, the amendment received about 2.1 million “yes” votes and 1.5 million votes against. That’s 58.4

The amendment will become ef fective once the Illinois State Board of Elections certifies results of the election. The board is scheduled to meet Dec. 5.

CONTAC T: michael@austinweeklynews.com

West Side to get more o -peak, evening Metra service

Changes bring ser vice close to pre -pandemic levels

By IGOR STUDENKOV Staff Reporter

West suburban and West Side riders will get more Metra service star ting Dec. with Oak Park, Maywood and Chicago’ East Garfield Park neighborhood g etting more service than they had even before the pandemic.

T he new schedule re presents something of a retur n to pre-pandemic servic levels for the Union Pacific West Line riders, which serves East Garfield Park Kedzie station, Oak Park, River Forest, Maywood, Melrose Park, Bellwood and Berkeley Similar to what Metra did other lines earlier this year, the headwa were adjusted to be more consistent and service frequency was improved in se eral stations

In Oak Park, trains will stop an av age of once every 15 minutes during rush hour, an improvement compared an aver age of 30 minutes under the current sched ule and the average of 20 minutes before the pandemic. And while, even before the pandemic, many trains skipped Kedzie, Maywood and Melrose Park stations, all trains exce pt some express trains and late evening trains will now stop there.

During the Nov. 11 Metra Board of Di rectors meeting, Metra Executive Director Jim Derwinski announced that the transit agency will be beefing up service

for several lines that are still operatin g below pre-pandemic service levels, in cluding the Union Pacific West Line. At the time, Metra spokesperson Michael

Gillis said that he hasn’t seen the new schedules, so he couldn’ t comment on any details.

According to the schedules released on Nov. 22, Metra is adding nine trains in each direction, increasing the number of trips from 40 to 58. It will restore the after 10:30 p.m. evening trains that were suspended early in the pandemic, albeit with slightly dif ferent schedules. Metra increased the number of rush hour trains and set more consistent headways, with trains stopping at Kedzie and west suburban stations once every half an hour For Oak Park, inbound mor ning rush hour trains will stop every 15 minutes, and outbound after noon rush hour trains will stop there every 10 to 20 minutes.

With a few exceptions, the of f-peak and evening trains will stop at each station once every hour. There are currently twohour gaps in several par ts of the of f-peak schedule – something that was an issue even before the pandemi c.

In a statement to the media, Derwinski described the new schedule as a way to ad dress the growing travel demand and adopt to the post-pandemic commuting patter ns.

“We are greatly encouraged by the growth in ridership so far this year and are happy that we are able to expand ser vice on the UP-West Line to provide commuters with another option as winter sets in,” he stated

IGOR STUDENKOV/Sta

Kedzie station outbound platform

Big Fish Aquarium opens in Galewood

Big Fish Aquarium o ers West Siders a mom-and-pop spot to buy sh, tanks and aquarium accessories

By MAIA McDONALD Block Club Chicago

Eddie Tanglao has loved fish and aquatic animals since he was a kid — and now he’s tur ned it into a business on the West Side Tanglao opened Big Fish Aquarium, 6816 W. North Ave., with a celebration Saturday. The shop will cater to local fish hobbyists, selling animals, supplies and accessories — and fulfills Tanglao’s childhood dream.

The customers “like the variety, the selection of fish over here,” he said.

Tanglao, 43, has 25 years of experience in the aquarium industry and is excited to share his passion with neighbors Large tanks span the walls and blue spotlights showcase varieties of fish, shrimp, crabs, fr anemones and other creatures for sale the

Delaney Woodlief, an employee at Big Fish Aquarium. “I think people are really excited to have a nice fish store over here.”

Big Fish Aquarium has been in the works since April. Tanglao renovated the space — previously a COVID-19 testing facility — and built stands for the fish tanks, he said.

Among Saturday’s visitors were Nia Pitman, a Galewood resident who stopped by with her partner after seeing the store from the street. Pitman said she’s had pet fish for the past year and wanted a “mom-and-pop” to support as opposed to big-box stores.

“It gives some competition to some of those bigger places,” she said. “They have a lot more variety than some of those bigger

resident who keeps tropical fish, stopped by with a flyer for Van Oak’s Pet Shop, a business that closed decades ago but once sold fish and aquarium accessories near Big Fish Aquarium.

“I was surprised the new store opens like this in these somewhat trying retail times as you might describe them,” Feret said. “But I will do my best to spread what little business I have around here in places like this.”

Feret said he’s been in the fish-keeping hobby for many years and would like to continue supporting neighborhood stores like Big Fish Aquarium that help him stay in the hobby.

Tanglao, who chatted at length with Feret about the area’s history and keeping fish, said a neighborhood aquarium makes a big difference by “having a friendly face.”

“You go down to PetSmart or Walmart and

you’re talking to somebody that probably doesn’t really care a lot about fish,” Tanglao said.

Tanglao said he hopes to someday open more aquarium shops across the city so kids can be introduced to the hobby and have the convenience of getting to talk to someone in their neighborhood about their fish.

Beyond the retail side of the business, Tanglao plans to offer services to customers, including going to their homes to clean their tanks.

“I think that by by doing that here we should be able to overcome any failures but but the shortcomings that other sources have made,” he said.

Big Fish Aquarium is open 3-6 p.m. Monday-Friday and noon-6 p.m. weekends.

CONTAC T: michael@austinweeklynews.com

Maia McDonald/Block Club Chicago Ow ner Eddie Tanglao poses for a picture at Big Fish Aquarium, 6816 W. North Ave., in Galewood on Nov. 19, 2022.

Maia McDonald/Block Club

Urban Prep loses charter ag reement for last Chicago campus

opening in West Garfield Park, the campus has moved various times. Most recently, it relocated to Roosevelt University two years ago.

Board member Jaime Guzman, who voted to revoke the agreement, said the most important constituency were the 51 students who would require support from ISBE in the transition.

charter’s West/Downtown campus, located at Roosevelt University in South Loop, currently has 51 students enrolled. The charter school has failed to meet enrollment requirements for three consecutive years and the numbers have fallen precipitously, state officials said.

three years as an Urban Prep student. He described support from teachers, staff, and peers — and cited the charter school’s record of seeing all graduating students receive offers to attend college:

Sides

By MAURICIO PENA Block Club Chicago

After months of controversy surrounding Urban Prep Academy, the Illinois board of education ended the charter school’s agreement for its downtown campus Thursday, citing enrollment declines

The move marks the latest blow to the nationally recognized charter network that specializes in serving Black boys on Chicago’s South and West Sides.

Last month, Chicago Public School moved to revoke its charter agreement and take over Urban Prep’s Bronzeville and Englewood campuses following a report from the district’s inspector general that substantiated misconduct allegations against the charter school’s founder Illinois board members voted to revoke the Urban Prep charter agreement after the charter school failed to maintain enrollment numbers at a certain level for its West/Downtown campus. Since originally

“This is a sad decision,” Guzman said.

Board member Donna Leaks, who abstained from casting a vote, said she could not support revocation of a charter for a school that’s provided a “unique opportunity for African American young men” in Chicago. Still, she said she understood the issues around sustainability.

“My hope is that there will be an effort to maintain this model that empowers our young African American men to feel pride, high expectations, and know their value,” Leaks said, fighting back tears.

Urban Prep’s downtown campus will be required to surrender its charter and close at the end of the 2022-23 school year The charter school leaders will still be able to appeal the decision in court.

The state has had oversight of Urban Prep’s West campus since 2019 after the Chicago Board of Education voted to revoke the organization’s charter for the West campus citing concer ns over financial mismanagement and dwindling enrollment.

As part of the charter agreement with the state, Urban Prep was required to maintain enrollment at 155 students. The

During the meeting, Dennis Lacewell, chief academic officer for Urban Prep, lobbied board members to keep the school open, arguing enrollment declines are not unique to Urban Prep, but something local schools serving Black students are grappling with in Chicago.

“We do not dispute the fact that our current enrollment numbers are not ideal,” Lacewell said. “However, we will like to highlight how this is a challenge that is not unique to Urban Prep and other schools serving Black students, particularly post-pandemic.”

Concer ns over enrollment numbers were first raised in a letter sent to the school last month, leaving the school with only a few weeks to increase enrollment by over 40 students, Lacewell said.

“We simply ask that Urban Prep Downtown campus is allowed to continue to grow and move forward in an upward trajectory,” Lacewell said.

At Thursday’s meeting, several students spoke fondly of their experiences at the charter school, expressing interest in wanting to finish out their high school career at Urban Prep

Michael Woodard said he had witnessed “nothing but Black excellence” in his

“I believe that I speak for all of my brothers in every graduating class when I say: ‘We want to finish what we started by graduating as Urban Prep young men.’”

Still, state board members remained unmoved and voted to revoke the agreement of the once-lauded charter school.

Jackie Matthews, executive director of communications for ISBE, said the board will work with the charter school’s families and CPS “to ensure that students have adequate supports before and during their transition into other CPS schools and programs that meets their unique needs.”

Chicago Public Schools plans to continue the Bronzeville and Englewood programs with teachers and staff for the 2023-24 school year, Matthews added in an email.

The district has assured the state board that Urban Prep students at the West/ Downtown campus will be prioritized for the programs should students want to continue under the Urban Prep model absorbed by the district, Matthews said.

The state action also came early enough to allow Urban Prep students to participate in Chicago Public Schools’ high school application process for the 2023-24 school year, Matthews added.

CONTAC T: michael@austinweeklynews.com

issues were put on hold as various “working groups” were for med with lawmakers and stakeholders in an ef fort to reach a consensus on measures that could actually pass.

got women to the polls It got 18- to 24-year olds to the polls, and they voted in droves.”

When the Dobbs decision was handed down, Democratic Gov. JB Pritzker and Democratic leaders in the General Assembly quickly called for a special session to call for even more protection for abor tion access in Illinois. Likewise, a few weeks later after a mass shooting at a July 4 parade in Highland Park, they called for a special session to call for more restrictions on assault-style weapons in Illinois. But in the ensuing weeks, both of those

While Illinois has among the least restrictive abor tion laws on the books, Welch said there is still more the state can do, possibly including a state constitutional amendment to protect abortion rights.

“That’s certainly one of the questions that’s out there, and it’s a strong possibility,” he said. “But again, I don’t want to get ahead of the working group or the recommendations they for mally present. I’m certain that’s one of the things that’s on the table.”

Re garding assault weapons re gulation, Welch said that issue will have to wait until the 2023 session be gins in January,

when only a simple majority of votes is needed to pass new laws with an immediate ef fective date That’s because the Illinois Constitution requires a three-fifths majority for bills passed after June 1 to have an immediate effective date

“Anything that we do on assault weapons, we would want it to be effective immediately,” he said. “And I just don’t think we would have 71 votes to get something done in this shortened veto session. But I do believe that we’re going to be able to deliver for the people of Illinois an assault weapons ban next year, and we’re going to work real hard to make that happen.”

Lawmakers still have three working days left in the veto session, Nov. 29 – Dec 1. Welch said the top priority for those days will be to pass “clarifications” to the SAFE-T Act, a sweeping criminal justice

reform package passed in January 2021 that includes, among other things, eliminating cash bail ef fective Jan. 1, 2023.

In particular, he said, there has been disag reement among prosecutors and law enforcement of ficials about what should happen on Jan. 1 with people already being detained pretrial in lieu of bail. The law doesn’t specifically say what happens to those individuals, which has led some to claim that it could lead to their widespread release from jail

“They’re inter preting it in a way that says that they have to swing the jail doors open at midnight,” he said. “And even though that’s absolutely not true, we’re going to add some language making it explicitly clear how that transition should work.” CONTAC

The move to close its Downtown campus marks the latest blow to the charter network that specializes in ser ving Black boys on Chicago’s South and West

LAKE/KEDZIE

the community in early December. DPD would then use that input to pick the final team.

T he teams were supposed to give their presentations during the Nov. 16 meeting ofthe Garfield Park Community Council’s (GPCC) Open Space and Land Use Committee, which was held virtually over Zoom. Scheduling conflicts pushed the presentations back to Dec. 6.

With Invest South/West, the city tried to facilitate development in the parts of the South and West sides that haven’ t seen much investment by offering developers a chance to submit proposals for vacant, usually city-owned land near major commercial corridors. T he first round didn’t include any sites in Gar field Pa rk

As has been the case in the past, the development teams must develop the proposals within DPD parameters, which g enerally called for retail on the first floor and apar tment units on the upper floors. T he first site will feature an eight-story building with between 56 and 61 residential units and around 10,000 square feet of commercial space.

T he second site would have a six-story building with between 36 and 41 residential units and around 9,500 square feet of commercial space.

T he third site would have a four story building with between eight and 15 residential units facing the Maypole Avenue section ofthe lot and around 5,500 square feet of retail facing Kedzie Avenue.

T he bid documents indicated that the

city will choose three developer finalists and five to 10 architect/design fir m finalists. T he list shared on the GPCC website had five architect/design fir m finalists.

Two out ofthe three developers are no strangers to Invest South/West initiat ive. Chicago-based Evergreen Real Estate Group was part of one of the finalist teams for the Laramie State Bank re development proposal in Austin. KMW Communities is owned by West Humboldt Park native Bill Williams and was part of the team chosen to redevelop the West Humboldt Park property at 3601-25 W. Chicago Ave . T he final development bidder, Citizens Building for a Better Community, is based in Austin, at 5424 W. Madison St

River North-based JGMA is a design firm that’s part ofthe team chosen to redevelop the underused 10th Police District station parking lot in North Lawndale at 3201-3423 W. Ogden Ave. T hey plan to turn the lot into mixed-use de velopment with af fordable housing. The one other Chicago firm, the Humboldt Park-based Studio Dwell, submitted a joint response with Los Angeles-based Brooks + Scar pa

Other designer finalists include Los Angeles-based Lorcan O’Herlihy Architects, Philadelphia-based SITIO Architecture + Urbanism and Mexico Citybased Productora.

GPCC’s Open Space and Land Use Committee has served as a for um where residents g et a chance to review proposed developments in East Garfield Park. T he meetings are open to the public and Zoom meeting information is posted on the council’s website.

For the most up-to-date information on GPCC meetings, visit https://www.gpcommunitycouncil.org/

A parent’s worst nightmare (continued)

The wheels of justice turn slowly. No truer statement can be applied as we await justice in the case of Shanquella Robinson, 25, who was brutally murdered in Cabo, Mexico alle edly by some of her “friends.”

My column last week gave some of the basic facts that many of us who have been following the case since the beginning have lear ned so far. Thanks to the many “vloggers” and amateur internet sleuths, the story is gaining momentum although I still don’t feel the publicity is at the level it should be.

JONES

The slow turning of the wheels, fueled predominantly by the force of Black folks using Twitter, Facebook and TikTok, has finally made the FBI and Mexican authorities take notice

It is obvious that the Mexi can gover nment has botched their role in all of this at every level. The police report regarding Shanquella’s death is polar opposite of the coro ner’s death certificate. And I had to throw some shade when an attorney was inter viewed in Mexico and authoritatively said he believed the death certificate over the police report as said police re port was “hearsay” while the death certificate represented fact. That amazed me because I wondered if he truly knew anything about the case or was just having his 15 minutes of fame. Let’s look at some of the disparities.

The police report states: Drank a lot of alcohol; friends wanted her treated in room; poor verbal response; died within 3 hours; cause of death — cardiac arrest; no mention of spinal cord or neck injuries. The Mexican coroner’s report states: Cause of death — spinal cord and neck injuries; no mention of alcohol; died within 15 minutes of getting

injured; found unconscious So which is it? And why such polar opposite information? We know a doctor was there with Shanquella for almost three hours. An ambulance was also dispatched to the scene. There should be phone records with time stamps. And I am truly bothered that the very people who allegedly caused the inju ries got to be the ones to make medical decisions to not have that child taken to a hospital.

As of this writing, the Mexi can authorities have issued an arrest warrant and extradition request for someone (they haven’t named who, just that it is a female) for the crime of “femicide,” which is the crime of killing a female because of her gender. I feel if the Mexican gover nment issued arrest warrants for all six of them, the Cabo6 as they are now being called would begin talking as the fear of going to jail in Mexico will have them doing all they can to try and save their butts. Right now the Cabo6 don’t have a life and are pretty much in hiding. Folks have been linking them to their parents; all the different last names be damned. Their notoriety is such that they can’t go out in public

Societal pressure has always been the catalyst for behavior and, contrary to many who professed that it no longer matters, the oppo site is true. If only we can begin to use that same sort of energy against all the criminal elements, we could solve the crime in the Black community overnight.

After having watched that video of Shanquella being beaten, we all want justice to be swift

The reality is that it’s not going to be swift, and all we want is to see the justice that Shanquella

deserves!

“The slow turning of the wheels, fueled … by the force of Black folks … has nally made the FBI and Mexican authorities take notice.”

YEARS

Ar ystine Danner

WEST SI DE LIVES

Arystine

Danner,

Austin librarian, reminisces on her mother’s hands

By SHANEL ROMAIN Community Narrative Reporter

While attending a poetry jam at the North Austin Chicago library on Saturday, Nov. 26,

I listened to Arystine Danner, the branch manager and adult librarian, read a short story about her mom.

You’re over a writing group here at the library?

I am. It’s called Write About It. The group has been going on since maybe 2017.We have a nice amount of people. If everybody were to show up, I’d probably be overwhelmed.

Do you instruct them on writing? How does the group work?

Write About It is a forum, a space for you to come and read your writing. It’s like an open mic on zoom.. You read your writing and then it’s gently critiqued by other people You don’t know how it sounds until you read it out loud. It may sound good to you, but not so much to other people. As you read it, you think, that doesn’t even sound right. So, now you can tell that it’s not right. But you don’t know what’s missing or what can be changed and that’s what we use it as. You can read what you write and get some feedback

We have people that write memoirs, fiction, poetry, etc. We have a whole array of people.I have people from Texas, the suburbs, and New York, etc. They love it. They’re always asking me when I’m gonna write something, but I call myself a librarian because that’s what I am. I write, but some people are way better writers than others and I am the other, I’m not fooled by that.

You were reading a shor t story today about your mom?

Yes. It’s called “My Mother’s Hands.” My mom would always look at her hands when I was younger and she would say, ‘My hands are so ugly,’ and I would say, ‘Ma, you have beautiful hands.’ And I noticed as she got older, her hands would lose elasticity and become thinner. I said one day I’d write about that.

I know what she went through from when she was a little girl and had to work in the cotton fields in Arkansas. When she got older she was working in the factory and she was always digging in the dirt, gardening and stuff.

My mother’s hands were beautiful because they raised me, they provided for us and her hands did so many things. She was country strong

CONTAC T: shanel@growingcommunitymedia.org

SHANEL ROMAIN/Sta

Shop Local 2022

The West Side o ers unique holiday gifts for ever yone in the family, from cigar a cionados to nature lovers

By MICHAEL ROMAIN Editor

The West Side has plenty of art, culture and commerce for people seeking unique gift ideas this holiday season.

There’s a di verse range of options, from Ida Nelson’s popular artisan ice cream to Shaquita Thorpe’s holistic massages. Here’s what you can buy:

The Roasted Leaf Cigar & Coffee Shop, 5925 W. Chicago Ave.

To paraphrase a famous actor, some people meditate; others smoke cigars. At the Roasted Leaf ’s calming and spacious lounge, you can do both.

The Black-owned business, which opened in 2020, has a range of flavors and brands. You can try the popular Blue Mountain Crown Royal Peach ($13.58 each), the Acid Blondie Belicoso ($11.58) or the French Cognac ($13.58).

Open 11 a.m.-9 p.m. Tuesday-Thursday, 11 a.m.-10 p.m. Friday-Saturday and noon-5 p.m. Sundays. 773-413-7853.

For more info, visit: https://www. facebook.com/theroastedleaf/

A Natural Mind and Body, 1921 N. Harlem Ave., suite S-106.

If you want to give the gift of stress relief this year, Shaquita Thorpe’s A Natural Mind and Body offers a variety of holistic services and therapies.

Thorpe’s 60-minute AromaParadise Massage ($130) is a relaxing Swedish treatment that allows you to choose which aroma oil you want to be massaged in. For the expectant mom in the family, there’s a 90-minute My Mommy and Me PreNatal Massage ($160) that focuses on the mother’s needs.

Book an appointment online at https:// www.anaturalmindandbody.com/ or call (708) 634-8837.

Ida’s Artisan Ice Cream & Treats, online

Who said you can’t enjoy ice cream in winter? North Lawndale native Ida Nelson’s innovative ice creams are popular year-round.

Pints are $12 and half-pints are $8. And with more than a dozen flavors, there’s plenty of room to experiment. Try the Mexican Hot Chocolate, Peach Cobbler or

Red Velvet Cheesecake for starters. There are also ve gan and non-dairy options.

Order online at https://idasartisan.com/ or call (773) 956-3353.

Sweet Beginnings, online

Sweet Beginnings, a wholly-owned subsidiary of the nonprofit North Lawndale Employment Network, offers full-time green jobs to residents returning from incarceration.

The company’s employees manage bee far ms across the city that produce honey, which gets infused into the company’s popular beeloveTM natural skin care products.

The Winter Sweet Holiday Box Set ($65) includes beeloveTM sugar scrub, body lotion, raw honey and shower gel, among other ing redients, for the perfect spa day. The beeloveTM Pure Necessities Collection ($17) includes shower gel, lotion and lip balm. Of course, you can also buy the honey itself ($15 for a 12-ounce jar).

Order online at https://beelovebuzz.com/ collections/all or call (773) 638-1825.

The Gar field Park Conser vatory, 300 N. Central Park

Winter and construction might be Chicago’s only two seasons, but the famous saying doesn’t apply at the Garfield Park Conservatory.

Step out of the cold and into a tropical landscape at the conservatory, which has more than 70 palm trees, lush ferns, an indoor lagoon and cacti — to name just some of what it has to offer.

For the naturalists in the family, gift a year

PROVIDEDf

Shaquita orpe’s A Natural Mind and Body o ers Swedish treatment massages.

MICHAEL ROMAIN/Editor

One of Sweet Beginnings’ beeloveTM holiday box sets.

MICHAEL ROMAIN/Editor

Cigars on display at e Roasted Leaf.

long membership that offers free admission for exhibits in the Artist’s Garden, presale ticket access for select special events, discounts at the gift shop and on classes and more. Membership is $60 per person, $84 for two people and $120 for a family of four Buy a membership online at https:// garfieldconservatory.org/. The Garfield Park Conservatory is open 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Wednesdays and 10 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Thursday Sunday. 773-638-1766.

Two Sisters Catering, online

Give the cook in your family a break this holiday season by treating your loved ones to the savory dishes of Two Sisters Catering.

Owner Veah Larde started the catering company in 2012 before moving to a brickand-mortar spot in Austin. Earlier this year, she closed the Austin location and now cooks her catered dishes at The Hatchery, the Garfield Park food incubator

The menu is expansive, featuring everything from salmon croquettes, cheesy grits (salt or sugar is up to you) and butter milk biscuits to pot roast, collard greens and fried fish. Pricing depends on the size and variety of the order.

Order online at https://twosiscatering. com/ or call (312) 869-2527.

Tasa Coffee Roasters, 4136 W. Nor th Ave.

One of the first café and roasters in the area, Tasa Coffee opened in Se ptember from husband-and-wife team Pier re and Jackie Marquez.

Tasa strives to give fair compensation

to the far mers who produce its coffee For the coffee lover in your life, there’s the ASMUCAFE Colombia Women’s Co op blend, a medium, single-origin coffee with notes of caramel and tof fee grown by women farm holders and growers in the Cauca re gion of Colombia ($14.99-$17.99 per bag); or the Luna Espresso Blend, which combines Central American, South American and South Asian premium cof fees ($14.99-$17.99 per bag).

Tasa also sells a mug ($11.99-$13.99) and gift cards.

Open 8 a.m.-4 p.m. Tuesday-Friday and 8 a.m.-3 p.m. Saturday-Sunday Instagram. 872-205-9767. Visit https://tasa.coffee/index. html for more info

CONTAC T: michael@austinweeklynews.com

Pipeline reaches sales agreement for 2 hospitals

Resilience Healthcare, based in Michigan, will assume all operations of West Suburban and Weiss Memorial

By STACEY SHERIDAN Wednesday Journal

Resilience Healthcare, a Michigan-based healthcare management group, is expected to assume all operations of West Suburban Medical Center in early December The hospital’s current owner, Pipeline Health Systems LLC, announced a sales agreement had been reached with Resilience in a Nov. 23 news release. Pipeline is the for mer owner of Westlake Hospital in Merose Park, which the company closed in 2019.

The sale is pending approval from a Texas bankruptcy court and also includes Weiss Memorial Hospital in Chicago’s Uptown neighborhood , as well as West Suburban’s River Forest medical campus and the Chicago Health Medical Group

The change in ownership has been in the works since last March and has had some bumps in the sales process.

“We are excited about this progress and look forward to a closing date of Dec 2 for Resilience to assume the hospital operations and continue serving the communities around Weiss and West Suburban,” said Jane Brust, a Pipeline spokesperson.

The agreement between Pipeline and Resilience is bifurcated. While Resilience will take over the operations for both hospitals early next month, the two healthcare groups are still working out the details regarding the purchase of the medical facilities and underlying real estate That second phase is still under discussion.

“We expect it close in the next few months as the second transaction of the deal,” said Brust.

The sale of the two hospitals has a planned price tag of $92 million, with a $12 million refund going back to West Suburban and Weiss as previously committed. Resilience is led by healthcare executive Manoj Prasad and his financial partner, Rathnakar R. Patlola, who manages Ramco Healthcare Holdings LLC. Wednesday Journal has reached out to Prasad for comment.

The California-based Pipeline says it invested $60 million in the two hospitals since it took over ownership in 2019. Pipeline

and its affiliates filed for bankruptcy Oct. 2. The U.S. Bankruptcy Court for the Southern District of Texas is expected to approve the sales agreement next week, according to Brust.

West Suburban is considered a safety net hospital. More than 80 percent of the hospital’s patients live in the Chicago’s Austin community. Weiss is a high Medicaid hospital.

“Pipeline Health is excited to reach this milestone in discussions and plans for change of ownership and we are grateful to hospital leadership, employees and physicians who have continued their ongoing dedication to the patients they serve,” said Brust

FILE

e Little Miss Ann Band performs during an event at the Gar eld Park Conservatory

Tasa Co ee Roasters

In-house roasted co ee from Tasa Co ee Roasters

West Suburban Hospital

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.

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.

HELP WANTED • NETWORK SPECIALIST

REAL ESTATE FOR SALE REAL ESTATE FOR SALE

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF COOK COUNTY, ILLINOIS COUNTY DEPARTMENTCHANCERY DIVISION WILMINGTON SAVINGS FUND SOCIETY, FSB NOT INDIVIDUALLY, BUT SOLELY AS TRUSTEE FOR RESIDENTIAL MORTGAGE AGGREGATION TRUST Plaintiff, -v.MONICA MARKO, THE MARINA TOWERS CONDOMINIUM ASSOCIATION Defendants 2022 CH 03244 300 NORTH STATE STREET, UNIT 3426 CHICAGO, IL 60654

NOTICE OF SALE

PUBLIC NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale entered in the above cause on September 8, 2022, an agent for The Judicial Sales Corporation, will at 10:30 AM on January 4, 2023, at The Judicial Sales Corporation, One South Wacker, 1st Floor Suite 35R, Chicago, IL, 60606, sell at a public sale to the highest bidder, as set forth below, the following described real estate:

Commonly known as 300 NORTH STATE STREET, UNIT 3426, CHICAGO, IL 60654

Property Index No. 17-09-410-0141503

The real estate is improved with a condo/townhouse.

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 resi-

dential 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, examine the court file, CODILIS & ASSOCIATES, P.C. Plaintiff’s Attorneys, 15W030

REAL ESTATE FOR SALE

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. 14-22-00135

Attorney ARDC No. 00468002 Attorney Code. 21762

Case Number: 2022 CH 03244

TJSC#: 42-3447

NOTE: Pursuant to the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act, you are advised that Plaintiff’s attorney is deemed to be a debt collector attempting to collect a debt and any information obtained will be used for that purpose.

Case # 2022 CH 03244 I3207924

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

WILMINGTON SAVINGS FUND SOCIETY, FSB, NOT IN ITS INDIVIDUAL CAPACITY BUT SOLELY AS OWNER TRUSTEE FOR CASCADE FUNDING MORTGAGE TRUST HB5 Plaintiff, -v.-

ALMETA LEVY, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA - DEPARTMENT OF HOUSING AND URBAN DEVELOPMENT

Defendants 2022 CH 03088 932 N RIDGEWAY AVENUE 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 September 28, 2022, an agent for The Judicial Sales Corporation, will at 10:30 AM on January 3, 2023, at The Judicial Sales Corporation, One South Wacker, 1st Floor Suite 35R, Chicago, IL, 60606, sell at a public sale to the highest bidder, as set forth below, the following described real estate:

Commonly known as 932 N RIDGEWAY AVENUE, CHICAGO, IL 60651

Property Index No. 16-02-321-0340000

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,

REAL ESTATE FOR SALE REAL ESTATE FOR SALE REAL ESTATE FOR SALE

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. 14-20-03776 Attorney ARDC No. 00468002 Attorney Code. 21762 Case Number: 2022 CH 03088 TJSC#: 42-3669

NOTE: Pursuant to the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act, you are

advised that Plaintiff’s attorney is deemed to be a debt collector attempting to collect a debt and any information obtained will be used for that purpose. Case # 2022 CH 03088 I3207898

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF COOK COUNTY, ILLINOIS COUNTY DEPARTMENTCHANCERY DIVISION MIDFIRST BANK Plaintiff, -v.-

WILBERT ESTREMERA, CITY OF CHICAGO, AN ILLINOIS MUNICIPAL CORPORATION, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA, UNKNOWN OWNERS AND NON-RECORD CLAIMANTS, UNKNOWN OCCUPANTS Defendants 18 CH 10759 2028 WEST ERIE STREET CHICAGO, IL 60612

NOTICE OF SALE

PUBLIC NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale entered in the above cause on September 19, 2022, an agent for The Judicial Sales Corporation, will at 10:30 AM on December 22, 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 2028 WEST ERIE STREET, CHICAGO, IL 60612 Property Index No. 17-07-112-0370000

The real estate is improved with a single family residence. The judgment amount was $188,054.37.

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

REAL ESTATE FOR SALE

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 18-087388.

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.

LOGS Legal Group LLP 2121 WAUKEGAN RD., SUITE 301 Bannockburn IL, 60015 847-291-1717

E-Mail: ILNotices@logs.com Attorney File No. 18-087388 Attorney Code. 42168 Case Number: 18 CH 10759 TJSC#: 42-3682

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 # 18 CH 10759 I3207218

Happy Holidays

in 2011.

POETRY JAM

Telling their stories

from page 1

“I don’t like that movie and how it’s attached to Cabrini-Green,” Vanlee said. “There was nothing scary about growing up in Cabrini. Forget candy man, we had other things going on there.”

Vanlee has poured her frustrations with the film into a book, “Damn, Candy Man: He Ain’t All that I Lived Beneath the Candy Lady for Years.” The book is about Vanlee’s life growing up in Cabrini-Green in the 1970s and 1980s. According to the book’s Amazon profile, the Cabrini-Green Vanlee knew and loved was about family, community, relationships, triumph and survival.

“It is not about a boogey man running loose with a hook in hand,” the profile reads. “It is about the ups and downs of growing up young, gifted and black.”

Vanlee was among about 10 people who attended the Poetry Jam: My Voice, My Power open mic session at the North Austin Branch Chicago Public Library, 5724 W. North Ave., on Nov. 26.

Vanlee and others read poetry and short stories about family, history, grow hope and other topics. Carolyn a librarian, said the sessions ha happening since 2012.

“As a librarian, I like reaching out to people and everyone has a story to tell,” she said. “I like listening to what have to say. I think it’s pretty gr people have so many hidden stories they want to share. I think it’s kind of neat to relate to others.”

Vanlee said she’s been writing since she was 9 years old.

“I was inspired by my teacher reading a poem to me about the four little girls of Alabama, then my mother would read that poem to me at home and I just started crying one day when I realized wh about,” she said.

“Then, I started to write poetry. write little short poems and stuf said. “I wrote for different newspapers and magazines and then went to school for journalism and poetry came back to me.”

Vanlee said she’s working with the National Public Housing Museum and Stage Left Theatre on a play based on her book — yet another hidden story revealed.

CONTAC T: shanel@growingcommunitymedia.org

SHANEL ROMAIN/Sta

Logan Quann gets emotional reading “On Aging” by Maya Angelou during the Nov. 26 poetry jam in Austin.

SHANEL ROMAIN/Sta

e North Austin Branch librar y hosted an open mic poetry jam session on Nov. 26.

Around 10 people showed up, librarians said.

SHANEL ROMAIN/Sta

Doreen Vanlee, an autho r, reads some of her or iginal poetr y at the Nov. 26 event.