Village Free Press 032923 by Wednesday Journal

Proviso United wants you to vote ‘HBO’ in D209 election

Candidates express frustration over allocation of district funds

By AMARIS E. RODRIGUEZ Staff Reporter

Candidates for the Proviso Township District 209 school board election are making the most of the campaign’s ﬁnal days as the April 4 election draws near. With eight candidates running for three open seats, the Proviso 209 United slate composed of Sandra Hixson, Jennifer Barbahen, and David Ocampo are hoping to land in the public’s favor.

Ocampo, a data engineer for Energizer and 10year Westchester resident, is a ﬁrst-time candidate hoping to bring his best to apply changes to the operations of the district, creating a better school environment for his children who will be attending one of the three schools in the Proviso district.

“It’s multifaceted but essentially it’s for the children, and not only my children,” Ocampo said. “The current situation at the high school is abysmal, there is no nice way to say it. It needs to be a viable option not just for my children but for the community’s children.”

Ocampo believes the biggest issues plaguing the district are the lack of transparency with ﬁnances and the amount of money allocated for students.

“It’s not a question about money, it’s just a question of how it is being spent,” Ocampo said. “It’s obviously not being spent on students when stu-

Maywood trustee candidates pledge focus on parks, safety

Lack of attention to Spanish-speaking residents raised concerns

By AMARIS E. RODRIGUEZ Staff Reporter

Maywood residents turned out March 23 as candidates for village trustee were asked to make commitments by The Coalition for Spiritual and Public Leaderships (CSPL), a grassroot coalition working to address issues in the community through the transformation of racial, economic, social and environmental systemic structures.

The coalition organized the meeting in anticipation of the April 4 election.

The meeting included a presentation of different topics and allowed for a representative of each slate to say if they would commit to working alongside CSPL to address those issues. After a verbal commitment was given to all issues discussed, a slate representative was allocated three minutes to expand on their answers.

The ﬁrst issue presented to Maywood trustee candidates was delivered by Remona Sanders, a resident, who addressed the lack of upkeep for streets and community parks.

“My vision for this playground is for the existing structure to be torn down and replaced with a safer innovative structure that would allow our children to utilize their imagination and creativity,” said Sanders. According to Sand-

ers, in 2006 Maywood residents voted that the parks should be under the care of the park districts rather than the village. However, the process of transferring over ownership is still in the ﬁrst phase.

Sanders asked candidates if they would commit to working with CSPL to create a community of residents and organizations to oversee the transfer of Phase 1 and Phase 2 by Spring 2024.

Maywood trustee candidates Rachel Montgomery, Rahmann Williams and Diann W. Baker said “yes” to the commitment on behalf of their slates.

“I have two young children and I have to take my children outside of

See MAYWOOD CANDIDATES on pa ge 11

M ARCH 29, 2023 Vol. VII No. 13

Photo: Amaris E. Rodriguez

APRIL 4 ELECTION RESULTS AND COVERAGE a t vfpress.news See PROVISO UNITED on pa ge 4

PHOTOS: AMARIS E. RODRIGUEZ Proviso Public meeting: Maywood and District 209 candidates in the upcoming April 4 election joined community members ursday night for a public meeting to address issues raising concern.

D209 Scholarship helps deser ving Proviso seniors

Deadline for scholarship applications is April 8

By AMARIS E. RODRIGUEZ Staff Reporter

Students across the Proviso Township High School District 209 still have time to submit their applications for two scholarships available through the 209 Scholarship nonproﬁt organization for their chance to receive ﬁnancial assistance as they pursue their education.

“This year we really want to make sure that students are aware of it and to know that this scholarship is available to them, and it is very easy to apply,” said 209 Scholarship board member Eileen Olivier.

The 209 Scholarship is a 501c3 non-proﬁt organization that raises funds to award scholarships to deserving senior students across all three of the schools in the Proviso district. The scholarship had humble beginnings back in 2015, with a goal of raising $6,000 annually for students. This year, the 209 Scholarship can award $1,000

to nine students through two different scholarships.

Olivier, a Maywood resident for 23 years, said she has enjoyed her time with the scholarship organization and getting to read about how resilient Proviso students are.

“Reading through the essays and the heartfelt stories the students would give, it would really inspire me every time I read them,” Olivier said. “The things they overcame, and they were able to make such good progress in circumstances that would humble a lot of grownups. But they did it, they overcame, and they continued their education pursuit.”

The two scholarships available are: “Overcoming Adversity” and “Persistence Pays.”

The “Overcoming Adversity” scholarship is awarded to students who meet the required 2.0 GPA and have demonstrated academic improvement.

“We have a unique set of students in our district, it is multicultural, and our income levels deviate. We have kids from all backgrounds and all situations,” Olivier said.

“Some of the students are facing challeng-

es, such as homelessness or family members passing away, and that trauma they are experiencing and still coming to school and still having to get over those things affect them a lot. At the same time, they try to turn into school because that might be the one place they can get away, so they don’t give up on that.”

Olivier said they have also seen many students who work to overcome language barriers and be the ﬁrst person in their family pursuing a college degree.

“We really respect what they are doing and their drive to succeed,” Olivier said.

Students applying for the “Overcoming Adversity” scholarship should have a history of academic growth along with submitting an essay or reference letters that express the adversity faced, how they are overcoming it, and demonstrate that the applicant will succeed during the next stage of their education.

The purpose of the “Persistence Pays Scholarship” is to show support to students who have maintained a 3.5 GPA or higher throughout their high school career

and excel both academically and in other areas of their lives.

According to the application, applicants should demonstrate a strong academic record and produce a well-written essay as well as showcasing how they excel outside of the classroom.

Olivier said the number of applications for this year’s round of scholarships have been rather low, emphasizing that they are working to get the word out to more students.

“It’s getting harder to get information through to the students,” Olivier said. “We are doing everything we can to make sure that these students understand that this resource exists, and we would love to be able to offer it to them.”

Prior recipients of the scholarship also can apply for the renewal scholarships that are available, allowing them the opportunity to receive additional ﬁnancial support to continue their education.

Students can ﬁnd more information and apply online at 209scholarship.com. Deadline for applications will be Saturday, April 8, 2023. Recipients will be notiﬁed on April 27.

2 Village Free Press, March 29, 2023

Senior Editor Bob Uphues

Staﬀ Repor ters

Francia Garcia Hernandez, Amaris Rodriguez

Digital Manager

Stacy Coleman

Design/Production Manager

Andrew Mead

Editorial Design Manager Javier Govea

Designer Susan McKelvey

S ales Representative and Community Engagement

Kamil Brady

S ales Representatives

Lourdes Nicholls, Marc Stopeck

Business & Development Manager

Mary Ellen Nelligan

Circulation Manager

Jill Wagner | Email: jill@oakpark.com

Special Projects Manager

Susan Walker

Publisher

Dan Haley

BOARD

OF DIREC TORS

Chair Judy Gre n

Treasurer Nile Wendorf

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

HOW TO REACH U S

Village Free Press

141 S. Oak Park Ave., Oak Park, IL 60302 PHONE: 773-626-6332 ■ FA X: 708-467-9066

VFPress.news

T WIT TER: @village_free

FACEBOOK : @maywoodnews

James hopes to help restore pride in District 209

D209 Together slate member seeks better relationship between district and teachers

By AMARIS E. RODRIGUEZ Staff Reporter

The April 4 Consolidated Election nearing, and the race for three open seats on the Proviso Township High School trict 209 school board is highly contested. With eight candidates vying for the seats, the D209 Together slate is hoping to seats, with one of the slate’s candidates hoping to restore pride in the district.

Growing up in Maywood, Jayda James, now of Hillside, said that regardless how tough it might have been at times, made her the woman she is today. James, currently an assistant principal at an ementary school in school district CUSD 201 in DuPage County, has personal to the community she is seeking to represent, being a product of the Proviso East class of ‘94.

With hopes of giving back, James came back to her community with a degree in early childhood education from Northern Illinois University to teach at Garﬁeld Elementary, her former school, and continued to work for District 89 for 24 years.

“I’ve always had pride in being an [alumnus] and I’ve watched my classmates and peers throughout the years have pride,” James said. “When I started to see the negativity, whether at a board meeting or via social media, I felt that it was taking away the pride of being a product of District 209 and I want to bring that back.”

Not only has James taught students who have gone on to attend Proviso Township, but two of her three children are graduates of the Proviso Math and Science Academy and one is currently enrolled.

As a parent in the district, James said a big concern is student safety as she has seen videos of student altercations that seem to keep escalating.

“When I see things like that, I realize that students are dealing with a lot more

there is a lack of knowledge to what students are dealing with emotionally and mentally,” James said, adding the importance of taking a step back to ﬁnd the root of what is leading to that behavior.

James also hopes to see positive changes in the relationship between the board and the Proviso Teachers Union (PTU.) To repair that relationship, James, who was the secretary and eventually vicepresident of the Maywood Education Association (MEA) for District 89, said it’s important to remain open to opinions and perspectives.

“I know what it is like to be on that side, I know the frustrations of a classroom teacher, I know the day-to-day work of a classroom teacher, so I am open to listening and collaborating when it comes to the PTU,” James said.

In response to controversy surrounding Supt. James L. Henderson. James said she would be open to an evaluation.

“I am willing to put that work in as well with whoever the board members are in coming up with an evaluating tool or measures to evaluate our superintendent

and make that public knowledge,” James said, adding this would help have a standard measure to use when renewals are discussed.

James wants to create an avenue for parents to voice their concerns and allow teachers to express themselves.

“It is about creating this open line of communication and I’m going to go out on a limb and say we are all on the same page when it comes to wanting our students to be successful,” James said. “We have to be willing, as the adults in their lives, to assist them and guide them towards that.”

Joining James in the D209 Together slate is incumbent Theresa L. Kelly, who has served on the board for 23 years, and newcomer Maribel Aguirre.

Kelly, a product of the district and graduate of Proviso East, worked to create the district’s cosmetology program and played a key role in the establishment of the pharmacy tech and nursing program as well.

Kelly, who has previously served as president and vice-president of the board, is the recipient of various awards including “Those Who Excel,” awarded by the National School Boards Association and was also named the 2022 “Distinguished Board Leader,” by the Illinois Association of School Boards.

According to Kelly’s candidate proﬁle in the Forest Park Review, in the last two years the board has been able to add many accomplishments to their list including the removal of Proviso East from the list of lowest performing high schools in Illinois, the establishment of an eight-period day schedule across all three schools, and a state of the art football stadium, named the “Theresa L. Kelly Stadium,” and outdoor track ﬁeld at Proviso East.

Aguirre is the third candidate on the D209 Together slate. Aguirre and Kelly were not able to be reached for an interview.

“We are all about our students, we are all about being communicative with the stakeholders and wanting everybody to be a part of the pride and success I know we are going to have,” James said.

Early voting is now open for the April 4 Consolidated Election and will continue through April 3.

Village Free Press, March 29, 2023 3

The

Village Free Press is published digitally and in print by Growing Community Media, NFP The print edition is distributed across Proviso Township at no charge each Wednesday.

Growing Community Media NFP

PROVISO UNITED Investing in classrooms

from page 1

dent instruction is 29 percent of the budget.”

Considering the ﬁnances of the district as a top priority, Ocampo said every month the school board is receiving a list of expenses without information about where the money is going.

“They are not itemized so we don’t know what is going on with the district’s funds,” Ocampo said.

Ocampo believes the current state of the school is negatively affecting any potential learning opportunities for the students.

“When the children are in a classroom with no instructors or 34 other peers, learning cannot happen,” Ocampo said.

Comparing the current school board to an episode of Jerry Springer, Ocampo says a complete “reboot” needs to happen to reinstate civility and decorum to the board, allowing them to lead by example and follow what they preach in the expectations set for students.

By putting egos aside, Ocampo said the focus should be on student centric policies and reconnecting with the community, who have seen lines of communication with the board and Superintendent Dr. James L. Henderson fragment in the last two years.

“We have parents that are upset, we have students who are upset, we have teachers who are upset,” Ocampo said. “And yet the board majority behaves in a way that shows that none of that matters. We need to move away from that. The environment in which teachers have to work is the same environment in which students have to learn.”

To help create a culture of open communication, Ocampo said he would love to host meet and greet and community nights for district parents to ask questions and get direct answers. With a Hispanic majority in the district, Ocampo said he would be a direct contact for Spanish speaking families.

Also putting transparency and communication in the front lines of priority is Ocampo’s slate mate Jennifer Barbahen, who said the current board has a blatant lack of transparency.

Barbahen, who currently has a senior at Proviso East and lives in Forest Park, said when her family began attending the district, they were really excited in the direction that the schools were going but after the pandemic and leadership changes, they began feeling alarmed.

“I could feel the impact of those decisions affecting the students in the classroom,” Barbahen said, adding that the teacher strike last spring, increase in class sizes, and the way board meetings operated was confusing and appalling.

With the help of others in the communi-

mony to the board.

Barbahen agrees that a big issue is the lack of funds being allocated to student learning.

“Our instructional spending is very low,” Barbahen said. “We have students who are not performing, and they are not able to be competitive at the state and national level. We also have very high administrative spending.”

As a parent, Barbahen said she is frustrated in knowing that students have been left without instructors for multiple classes, that teachers are not made aware if a student has an Individualized Education

staff and programs, Hixson began hearing complaints from disgruntled teachers and began considering what choices she had. She chose to do “something about it” and run for the board.

A concern Hixson has is the lack of resources students are afforded and an increase in student ﬁghts, which she said kept getting more aggressive.

“I have taught some of those students before, so I knew their potential,” Hixson said. “Them not having resources that they need, I was like ‘I’m done, I have to do something about this.’”

If elected to the board, Hixson said her priority would be to ensure that students come ﬁrst. This would include hiring back teachers, adding faculty, updating technology and software, hiring back deans and having more security across the three campuses. Hixson also believes the district needs to look at students as a whole to be able to fully understand what they need to successful. This includes a priority in understanding mental health and the social and emotional needs of students.

Hixson, who tries to keep up with her former students, said she understands the importance of keeping lines of communication open with district parents. Hixson said she would support community events, would encourage parents to reach out to board members, and maintain transparency throughout her time if elected to the board.

ty, Barbahen, a conﬂict supervisor at a law ﬁrm, helped in the creation of the Proviso 209 Cooperative, a Facebook group that shared information about what was happening in the district. But it wasn’t until witnessing the teacher strike in 2022 that Barbahen decided to throw her name in the candidate pool.

“The things that the teachers are ﬁghting for are things that our students need too,” Barbahen said. “It became very apparent that the teachers are an island, the parents and community are an island, we should really be working on this together.”

With hopes of bringing change, Barbahen said after much vetting, the Proviso 209 United slate was formed to bring forward a strong team offering different skill sets.

“We bring a clean perspective of people who are involved and who know the community, they know the schools, they know the problems, but we also know that the trajectory can be positive,” Barbahen said, adding that the candidates also work well together and can bring much needed har-

Program, and there being a lack of seating in classrooms due to the increase in class sizes.

“Our public schools are the pillars of our community, they are in the absolute center of our community. … our schools absolutely affect every single person in our township,” Barbahen said. “Our tax dollars go to these schools…they should be thriving, not struggling.”

Composing the “H” in “HBO,” is Sandra Hixson, a resident of Westchester for 20 years and a former substitute teacher for District 209.

Hixson, who has been in the education ﬁeld and involved in various community service projects, said she resigned from District 209 when she decided to run for a seat on the board. Hixson is currently a substitute teacher for Bellwood School District 88.

“It was great, it really was great until 2020,” Hixson said of her time as an employee of the district. “It had nothing to do with COVID.”

After witnessing the multiple cuts to

“Some parents can’t come to the school board meetings, they can’t, but if they can reach out to us say ‘this is what I like, this is what I don’t like, this is what I need help with, this is what I don’t need help with,’ now we are talking,” Hixson said. “That is the only way we are going to build back public trust is to be open and available to all parents in the district.”

While community members have expressed their discontent with certain board members who they believe did not keep their campaign promises, Hixson says she will continue to stand her ground.

“For me it’s about integrity and when you put your hand on an oath you are telling people that you believe in what you are saying, you believe in what you are doing,” Hixson said. “I’m a spiritual person so not only am I taking an oath to the community, but I am also taking an oath to God. I’m not going to go against that oath, period, for no one.”

Early voting in the April 4 Consolidated Election is already underway and will continue through April 3. Election Day is April 4.

4 Village Free Press, March 29, 2023

DAVID OC AMPO JENNIFER (JENNY) BARBAHEN SANDRA JOSEPH-HIXSON

Village Free Press, March 29, 2023 5

Westchester president candidate Galandak wants ‘reactive leadership’ to end

Galandak says he will work to ensure Westchester ‘uses money wisely ’

By FRANCIA GARCIA HERNANDEZ Staff Reporter

David Galandak, 65, is running to be Westchester’s next village president in a contested race against six other candidates who will have to make crucial decisions regarding the relocation of the village hall.

Village Free Press was unable to reach Galandak last week for a story on several other candidates.

Galandak, who has called Westchester home all his life, said he will lead proactively, especially when it comes to planning and making decisions regarding development projects underway in the village.

“It’s very important that we use the money wisely and not make any mistakes,” he said. “We have been subject to reactive leadership,

MAY WOOD TRUSTEE CANDIDATES

Representing Hispanics

from page 1

Maywood for purposes like that,” Montgomery said.

Montgomery, representing The Maywood’s People’s Party which includes Trustee Isiah Brando and Miguel Jones, said they understand the urgency for the transition. Montgomery said that aside from completing the transfer of responsibility, the village board also needs to hold the park district accountable for maintenance.

Following the presentation of the second topic by Jasmine Lopez, candidates Isaiah Brandon, Shabaun Reyes-Plummer, both seeking reelection, and candidate Baker expressed their commitment to implementing an accessible communications system for residents.

Attendees heard concerns from Patricia

which is costing the town money.”

For instance, Galandak said he will prepare risk management plans after evaluating the plans for Mannheim Road and Roosevelt Road. He holds a B.S. in business management and real estate ﬁnance from DePaul University and is certain his 65 years of life experience provide “better judgment.” Galandak has experience in real estate, acquiring delinquent tax properties in the area to redevelop them, in addition to past experience in development of commercial properties. Galandak said he has been involved in local politics since 1983, collaborating with elected ofﬁcials in development projects and advocating for educational programs.

He will also work to evaluate development plans for the old St. Joseph High School, 10900 W. Cermak Rd. to avoid costly mistakes. He said if developers plan to build high-density housing on the site, the village of Westchester will likely have to update the current sanitary and storm sewage, which will require digging up the

Giron, a resident of Maywood for 15 years, regarding the lack of village services communicated in Spanish. With a growing Spanish-speaking community, Giron said Maywood has not been able to provide enough ways for residents to properly communicate with the village.

“I believe that if the last census demonstrated that the population of Hispanics in Maywood makes up approximately 45 percent we should have, as a right, more inclusion in the place where we live and where we pay our taxes to help support our community,” Giron said, adding she has fought to ﬁnd her place in a community where she does not feel included because they don’t share a language.

Candidates Montgomery, Reyes-Plummer, and Baker committed to addressing the prior compromise made in 2021 to hire someone in a permanent administrative position to aid the village in the translation process and provide services in Spanish.

Donna Bronner, a resident of Maywood for 38 years, addressed concerns regarding community violence. Bronner, who has worked to provide counsel to victims of domestic violence, asked candidates if they

DAVID GALANDAK

streets around the property’s perimeter, so it would make no sense to complete resurfacing work now.

He also vowed to increase transparency by sharing a monthly report card on the progress of the village’s projects and overseeing the projects being completed, adding that the village board and past administrators did not adequately supervise the projects leading up to the failed relocation of village hall.

were committed to addressing the issue in the village.

“Last year’s ﬁscal report showed that domestic related calls were by far the highest number of calls that the Maywood Police Department responded to,” Bronner said. “However, still today, we do not have a clear and appropriate response plan in place, such as safe housing, or safe spaces to provide adequate support to families transitioning from crisis to stability.”

Bronner asked candidates to commit to identifying funding and working with Maywood community organizations to help support survivors of domestic violence to implement plans by Jan. 2024. Trustee Miguel Jones, along with candidates Tori Garron and Baker all said “yes” to the commitment.

“The Maywood Four party is committed to bringing those things to the Village of Maywood,” said Williams. “We are committed to working with different outside organizations, safety and inclusion, to bring the safety and the wellness of our parks together, working with organizations and groups to bring all those things together.”

6 Village Free Press, March 29, 2023

Growing Community Media a non-proﬁt newsroom Donate today at We’ve got YOU covered.

is tax season, get free tax- ling assistance

11 locations in city, west suburbs, nonpro t Ladder Up provides free tax ser vices

By FRANCIA GARCIA HERNANDEZ Staff Reporter

With less than a month left to file last year’s taxes, Chicagoland taxpayers can get free assistance at Ladder Up. The nonprofit provides free tax services including preparing state and federal income tax returns and helping taxpayers who are not eligible for a social security number apply for an individual tax identification number (ITIN).

Tax preparation services are free for individuals with an annual income of $32,000 or $60,000 for families who resided in Illinois for the full 2022 year. If ﬁling a joint tax return, both taxpayers must be present. In-person tax assistance is available at 11 sites throughout Chicagoland thanks to hundreds of certiﬁed volunteers who help taxpayers prepare their state and federal returns.

Executive Director Phyllis CavalloneJurek said the nonprofit works with approximately 750 volunteers who have a background in business or finance, including recent retirees, employees who participate in their company’s corporate social responsibility volunteering program and students from local universities. All volunteers receive specific training and an IRS certification to prepare tax returns.

“They go through training that is very thorough. it has multiple layers, it’s pretty rigorous,” Cavallone-Jurek said, adding that even active certiﬁed public accountants or tax experts who volunteer at Ladder Up must go through training, including ethics training to protect customers’ sensitive information.

“To say we have this many volunteers is wonderful because this is not for everybody. taxes aren’t necessarily a sexy thing to volunteer [for],” she said. Most volunteers are motivated by helping people who typically lack access to trusted ﬁnancial resources in their communities.

Regina Gillenwater, an Austin resident who has a disability, said she has had a great experience filing her taxes with Ladder Up for the last five years. She said tax preparers explained her returns and filed them for her on-site, offering a trustworthy

and convenient service. “I’ve never had a problem at all.”

Gillenwater is one of many West Side customers who have benefitted from Ladder Up’s free services. Last year, the nonprofit filed 1,217 returns from taxpayers who live in the Austin, Lawndale and Garfield Park areas resulting in almost $2.1 million in tax refunds.

To serve Chicagoland’s diverse community, Ladder Up has multilingual speakers who assist non-English speakers in 35 different languages, including Spanish, Mandarin, Polish, Dari and Pashto. In addition, there are designated days when American Sign Language interpreters are available for people with hearing disabilities and they provide accommodations for people with other disabilities.

Those seeking tax assistance can bring their documents – social security card or ITIN, a valid form of a photo ID and all their tax documents -- to one of Ladder Up’s locations for ﬁrst come,

ﬁrst serve services. Online ﬁling is also available through their website.

After the tax season is over, taxpayers facing controversies with the IRS or Illinois Department of Revenue can get counseling and representation for free.

Residents can visit Ladder Up at Unity Junior High School, 2100 S. Laramie Ave., or the McCormick YMCA, 1834 N. Lawndale Ave. near the city’s West Side. In Melrose Park, Ladder Up provides services at Our Lady of Mt. Carmel Casa Esperanza, 1116 N. 22nd Ave. To review eligibility and document requirements, visit Ladder Up’s website.

“If you’re eager to use our services, we urge you to go now. Don’t wait until the last couple of days,” Cavallone-Junek said.

Village Free Press, March 29, 2023 7

PROVIDED

Ladder Up volunteers assist customers w ith their tax retur ns

With Proviso backing, teen mental health center opens

NAMI and Pillars Community Health unveil The Loft at 8 Corners

By BOB UPHUES Editor

The National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) Metro Suburban and Pillars Community Health on March 13 opened the doors to The Loft at 8 Cor ners, a first-of-its-kind center dedicated to the holistic mental health of teenagers.

Over the past six months, NAMI and Pillars renovated the for mer yo ga studio at 9045 Monroe Ave. in Brookfield into a welcoming space for high school students to access a host of mental health services, and where families can lear n more about the range of strategies, tools and services available to them.

The Loft is open seven days a week, 365 days a year from 1 to 8 p.m. and is staf fed with a team of mental health professionals Teens and families can simply walk in or schedule times to visit. All services are free

“This space is really an expansion, it’s a broadening of our continuum of services, everything from education to suppor t to activities,” said Angela Curran, president and CEO of Pillars Community Health during a March 8 ribbon-cutting event to show of f the center and thank a half do zen foundations, Proviso Township and Cook County Health for their financial support.

NAMI and Pillars Community Health also sought out teenagers to help them identify key elements, both visual and programmatic for The Loft – even getting input on its name.

Kimberly Knake, executive director of NAMI Metro Suburban, said they recr uited students at Riverside-Brookfield High School and Proviso Township high schools to form a Teen Advisory Committee.

“They met over a few months led by [a consultant] to discuss their take on mental illness, the additional program of ferings, renaming it from a working title of Teen Living Room to The Loft at 8 Cor ners, and working on what they wanted the look and feel to look like,” Knake said.

Cook County awarded the initiative a $1 million grant, while additional funding came from the Community Memorial Foundation, Healthy Communities Foundation,

BOB UPHUES

Cutting the ribbon on e Lo at 8 Corners on March 8 were (from le ) Tina Ramirez Moon, program o cer, Healthy Communities Foundation; Jesse Rosas, executive director of Prov iso Township Mental Health Commission; Heather Alderman, CEO, Illinois Children’s Healthcare Foundation; Greg DiDomenico, CEO, Community Memorial Foundation; Kim Knake, executive director, NAMI Metro Suburban; Angela Curran, CEO, Pillars Community Health; Carmen Soldato, NAMI board chair; and April Schweitzer, PCH board chair.

Illinois Children’s Healthcare Foundation, Naffah Family Foundation, the VNA Foundation, Westlake Foundation and the Proviso Township Mental Health Commission.

“Our work here speaks to not only who we are as a local community but what we believ e in as leaders, collaborators, friends and neighbors: To respond to a local need, to create a sense of belonging and to empower our youth so that they can be healthy and well,” said Greg DiDomenico, president and CEO of the Community Memorial Foundation.

Teens visiting The Loft will, after staff obtains necessary consent, will receive a mental health screening to deter mine the appropriate level of support, from access to education resources, support groups and classes to family suppo rt services to one-on-one support to crisis intervention.

The Loft includes rooms where private one-on-one counseling can take place, a larger room where families can meet privately with staf f, a classroom, a living room-type area where teens can relax and a yo ga studio.

Adrian Cardenas, who is Loft’s coordinator, oversees the day-to-day operation of the center, facilitates groups and assesses teens who may be experiencing a crisis to determine their level of care

His team also includes three young adult recovery sup-

por t specialists who work directly with teens, a family suppor t specialist, an education manager and program manager.

He said The Loft’s team “will be there the whole ste p of the way, walking [teens] through [recovery].”

“We want to walk along in that jour ney with our teens and not do everything for them,” Cardenas said. “We want them to have that autonomy in their own recovery If we do everything for them, they won’t know how to do that once they walk out of these doors. If we’re able to give them that power of choice that is our ultimate goal and that’s how the inter-professional team will do that together.”

An impor tant par t of The Loft’s of ferings are skill-building groups to help teens work through issues af fecting mental health, from being mindful and fostering healthier inter personal relationships to controlling emotions, solving problems and reducing stress

“There is no one right way to work with your mental health,” Cur ran said. “No jour ney is the same, so our goal is really to expand this continuum as much as we possibly could.”

For more information, visit the center’s website at loft8cor ners.org.

8 Village Free Press, March 29, 2023 vfpress.news

Village Free Press, March 29, 2023 9 Take Control OF YOUR DIABETES Zing Health makes it easy! Ask me how to get a FREE Continuous Glucose Monitor and $0 preferred insulin medications! Find out if you qualify for a Zing Health Medicare Advantage plan! Zing Health is a Medicare Advantage Plan with a Medicare contract. Enrollment in Zing Health depends on contract renewal. Zing Health complies with applicable Federal civil rights laws and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, age, disability, or sex. Fred Schmidt Senior Insurance Advisor 708-733-0276 Y0149_ZH-Insulin-B001_M HHDIAGNTBOP2 insuremenow.store *Annual Percentage Yield (APY) accurate as of March 21, 2023 and is subject to change. A minimum of $1,000 is required to open the account and to obtain the stated APY. Fees may reduce earnings on the account. A penalty may be imposed for early withdrawal. Offer is for new money only. 7 Month Certificate of Deposit 5.10% APY *Annual Percentage Yield (APY) accurate as of March 21, 2023 and is subject to change. A minimum of $1,000 is required to open the account and to obtain the stated APY. Fees may reduce earnings on the account. A penalty may be imposed for early withdrawal. Offer is for new money only. 7 Month Certificate of Deposit 5.10% APY*

Forest Park unveils community fridge at Mohr Community Center

Fridge o ers fresh food, nonperishables to anyone in need

By IGOR STUDENKOV Staff Reporter

In her online invitation, Forest Park Health & Safety Commissioner Maria Maxham said the grand launch of the Forest Park Community Fridge would take place on March 25, at 1 p.m., “rain (or snow) or shine.”

And, indeed, light snow didn’t stop Mayor Rory Hoskins, the entire village council, Forest Park School District 91 board member Monique Cotton-Yancy and mayoral candidate John Doss, among other notable Forest Parkers, from gathering at the nook on the north side of Mohr Community Center, 7640 Jackson Blvd. The refrigerator is

made up of two parts – the actual refrigerator that contains perishables such as milk, bread and eggs, and the pantry containing nonperishable items.

Maxham said that, while she expects many homeless individuals to take advantage of it, the fridge is open to anyone who is struggling to put food on the table. The village is working with District 91 to let Forest Park families know about the fridge.

The community fridge was something that grew out of a Facebook discussion among Forest Park parents and other residents. Maxham previously told the Review that the makeshift group – which is calling itself the Forest Park Fridge Volunteer Group – was inspired by similar fridges in Forest Park and Maywood. Rachell Entler, Hoskins’ executive secretary, and Mohr Community Center director Karen Dylewski got involved as well.

Volunteers will regularly restock the fridge, but anyone can drop off their own

donations as well. Aside from the usual pantry nonperishables, residents can donate fresh fruits and vegetables, eggs, cured meats, prepackaged bread and pastries, pasteurized milk, yogurt, fruit juices, cheeses and other packaged foods. All donations must be unopened and unexpired, and residents can’t donate any products containing peanuts, raw milk cheeses, home prepared foods, raw meat and ﬁsh products, alcohol and “unlabeled multi-ingredient items.”

Maxham said that after the Forest Park Library and District 91 “very politely” declined to put the fridge on their properties, Dylewski suggested the community center.

Kevin Hibbitts, owner of the Forest Parkbased McShane-Hibbitts and member of the Forest Park Planning and Zoning Commission, enclosure for free with his son. Volunteers secured the materials.

Hoskins

center, which already helps many “unhoused” residents, was a logical choice for the site.

“We learned during the pandemic that there are a number of people in Forest Park who are unhoused,” he said. “The community center has always done an excellent job, doing a lot with little.”

“I’m really excited,” Maxham said at the unveiling. “The only concern I’ve heard [was] – ‘we’re going to attract homeless But that’s kind there are also can’t afford [to put

11 Month Certificate of Deposit

5.36%

APY*

10 Village Free Press, March 29, 2023

*Annual Percentage Yield (APY) accurate as of March 21, 2023 and is subject to change. A minimum of $1,000 is required to open the account and to obtain the stated APY. Fees may reduce earnings on the account. A penalty may be imposed for early withdrawal. Offer is for new money only.

IGOR STUDENKOV

APY *Annual Percentage Yield (APY) accurate as of March 21, 2023 and is subject to change. A minimum of $1,000 is required to open the account and to obtain the stated APY. Fees may reduce earnings on the account. A penalty may be imposed for early withdrawal. Offer is for new money only.

5.36%

Village Free Press, March 29, 2023 11 COMMUNITY Please join House Speaker and State Representative Emanuel “Chris” Welch for a Help protect yourself from identity theft! Bring documents that contain your personally identifiable information – such as old bank statements, tax returns, bills, receipts, credit card applications and outdated medical records – to be safely shredded. • Limit two boxes per car. • Cardboard boxes cannot be left at the event. • Residential shredding only (no commercial shredding). • Shredding accepted until shred trucks reach capacity. For more information, please contact Rep. Welch’s constituent service office at 708-450-1000 or RepWelch@EmanuelChrisWelch.com

EVENT IS FREE TO THE PUBLIC! Please remember to remove all paper clips, staples, and other bindings. Bellwood Village Hall 3200 Washington Blvd. | Bellwood, IL 60104 Saturday, April 15, 2023 10:00 AM to 1:00 PM Emanuel “Chris” WELCH SPEAKER OF THE HOUSE 7th District STATE REPRESENTATIVE and Bellwood Mayor Andre F. Harvey

THIS

12 Village Free Press, March 29, 2023 PAID POLITICAL ADVERTISING PAID

C ONN ECTS FREE INTERNET Qualify today for the Government Free Internet Program CALL TODAY (866) 943-1981 YOU QUALIFY for Free Internet if you receive Medicaid, SNAP, WIC, Housing Assistance, Veterans Pension, Survivor Beneﬁts, Lifeline and Tribal. Bonus offer: 4G Android Tablet with one time co-pay of $20 ACP program details can be found at www.fcc.gov/affordable-connectivity-program-consumer-faq Growing Community Media NFP is a 501(c)3 not-for-proﬁ organization Our Community Needs Community Journalism Reporting local news, telling local stories and keeping local o cials accountable is more important now than ever before. Let's keep Proviso informed. Read and Support the Village Free Press. Donate today at

FOR BY PAT DEGNAN

D209 candidates asked to focus on violence, language equity

Inadequate support for student mental health also discussed

By AMARIS E. RODRIGUEZ Staff Reporter

Proviso District 209 school board candidates were asked to commit on issues that have raised concerns locally around education during the March 23 Coalition for Spiritual Those language school violence prevention. of health souri-Columbia, survivor lack pus.

“I worry for my brother who attends Proviso East because I am wondering if he will confront the same issues at his school when he needs someone to talk to,” Doughty said.

“I know East provides mental health support and services but these resources are lacking at Proviso West and this shouldn’t be that way.”

Calling for mental health support for all schools in the Proviso Township District 209, Doughty asked candidates Sandra Hixson, Jon Kubricht, and Theresa Kelly, if they would be committed to addressing the

services to the schools, all starting with a proposed needs assessment survey.

Patricia Giron went back to the mic to speak on behalf of the Spanish-speaking community. With children in the Proviso schools, she asked for a commitment from Candidates David Ocampo, Claudia Medina, incumbent, and Jayda James to commit to improve the language equity and inclusion for Spanish-speaking families.

Giron, whose daughters attended Proviso East, said she struggled ﬁnding someone who would communicate with her in

With concerns regarding school violence, Tonja Harris, member of the safety and violence prevention committee with CSPL and a resident of Maywood for seven years, expressed hope that “someday soon” Maywood would be able to be like Oak Park and other surrounding communities. Expressing fear for the safety of her teenage son, Harris said she not only fears for his safety walking to school but also for his safety in the school.

“Concerns around school violence are falling through the cracks and the adminto would weaponizing Kuto to violence with a focus on restorative justice by

Village Free Press, March 29, 2023 13 vfpress.news

Presenter Danaya Doughty asks D209 candidates Jon Kubricht, Incumbent eresa Kelly, and candidate Sandra Hixson if they publicly would commit to helping address student mental health. MARIS E. RODRIGUEZ

Former Proviso Together leadership throw support behind HBO slate

As many know, Proviso Together, the organization that elected the current Proviso High School board, folded last year in part due to irreconcilable differences between board members, highly controversial and unethical decisions by the school board and lack of respect towards volunteers and the community.

We -- some of the former volunteers of Proviso Together, including founders Connie Brown and Ken Snyder -- are writing today because we don’t want you, the voters, to be fooled by candidates trying to imitate the colors and font of Proviso Together or brag about being the founding members of the organization. Proviso Together doesn’t exist and the incumbents asking for your vote now are the very people who helped destroy it.

We do not recommend any of the candidates running for re-election this year. We do, however, believe in the strength of our community and are not surprised that our towns have risen up and are demanding change. We want to share why we and so many of the former volunteers are so excited about the new team of Sandra Hixson, Jenny Barbahen and David Ocampo (HBO) running for the Proviso High Schools District 209 board.

Sandra, Jenny and David have put their

time into our communities over the years and have proven that they will put our students, schools and communities ﬁrst. They show through their actions that they seek facts, will listen to students, teachers and residents. They understand that the district doesn’t just need a change in direction, but a change in attitude. They are the only candidates endorsed by Proviso teachers and community leaders across the district.

Contrast that with the actions of the current board who now ask for your vote to be re-elected: racial polarization, dividing our district and pitting towns against each other, disrespecting and insulting each other and community members who merely disagree with them. Not to mention actions that deeply harm our district: proposing a charter school, provoking a teachers’ strike, giving a lavish contract to the superintendent without accountability, sending their children to schools outside our district, and making ﬁnancial decisions without ﬁscal transparency.

We cannot spare any more time waiting for the incumbents to do better. Instead, we thank the current school board members for their service but vote for change to get District 209 back on track. The Proviso 209 United slate of Sandra Hixson, Jenny Barbahen and David Ocampo is a new legitimately grassroots team of parents backed by teachers, which builds on the movement that began in 2015..

We hope you will join us in supporting Hixson, Barbahen, and Ocampo on April 4.

Connie Brown, Ken Snyder, Nick Ardinger, April Baker, Geo Binns Calvey, Maria Maxham, Michelle Woehrle, Kevin Leonard

Time to support Proviso 209 United is now

Like many of my neighbors over the last few years, I have observed with dismay the dysfunction that has become the calling card of almost all of the Proviso Township High School D209 school board and their appointed superintendent. I am alarmed at the lack of transparency and competence, the lack of respect, the lack of emotional intelligence that, whether they like it or not, is what many on this current D209 board will be remembered for.

I’ve invested time attending school board meetings, researching the candidates, contributing to non-partisan efforts such as The Activist Toolkit in generating a candidate questionnaire, and partnering with respected community organizations in order to organize a Candidate Forum. I wanted my choices to be based on evidence and facts, on the record of performance and behavior.

For me, the choice is clear: the candidate slate of Sandra Joseph-Hixson, Jennifer Barbahen, and David Ocampo (Proviso 209 United, HBO) represent the next generation of parent advocate candidates that our district deserves, and I will be proud to vote for them on April 4.

HBO is a dedicated and resourceful team of parents and educators who, above all else, have placed the welfare of our young scholars at the center of what they do. They have invested countless hours listening, responding, and engaging with

the community. They provide information concisely, transparently, and honestly, in ways that are easy to understand and without the need to gaslight. They have provided insight as to what their objectives are, and how they will achieve their goals.

And because of these efforts, partnered with school board member Amanda Grant, I know they can rebuild the essential relationships of trust with the educators of our D209 schools, as evidenced by the fact that they alone are the only ones endorsed by the Proviso Teachers Union and West Suburban Teachers Union Local 571. Their majority vote will help the district turn back many of decisions made in recent years and hold the tide against future errors. They will not invite charter schools into our district, and instead, will invest in our students and facilities with judgment and clarity.

My ﬁrst vote as an American citizen was in 2015 -- and I was proud then to vote for a slate of candidates powered by an allvolunteer grassroots coalition of community members. I respectfully thank them for their service, and the change they once were part of.

The people have the power -- and I know I will continue to endorse and volunteer and vote for the only clear choice for our community, and the next wave of grassroots change. I remain inspired by Sandra, Jenny, and David, and hope you join me in punching 123, 124 and 125 on your ballot.

Above all -- please vote. Every election is essential, and yes, our lives, and the lives of our kids, do depend on it.

Betty Alzamora Co-Founder, Forest Park Against Racism

14 Village Free Press, March 29, 2023 vfpress.news letters

Growing Community Media a non-proﬁt newsroom We’ve got YOU covered.

Village Free Press, March 29, 2023 15 vfpress.news THE GEORGIE ANNE GEYER LECTURE GET TIX! BOX OFFICE (708) 488-5000 events.dom.edu April 4 @ 7:00p with PHOTOJOURNALIST Paula Bronstein Free to attend Coming straight from assignment in Ukraine

REAL ESTATE FOR SALE REAL ESTATE FOR SALE

(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.

PUBLIC NOTICES

PUBLIC NOTICES PUBLIC NOTICE OF COURT DATE

REAL ESTATE FOR SALE REAL ESTATE FOR SALE

FOR REQUEST FOR NAME CHANGE STATE OF ILLINOIS, CIRCUIT COURT COOK COUNTY.

Request of GISELLE LOPEZ Case

Number 20234000897

There will be a court date on my Request to change my name from: GISELLE LOPEZ to the new name of: JAX GIAN LOPEZ

The court date will be held:

On April 18, 2023 at 11:00 AM at

1500 MAYBROOK DRIVE, MAYWOOD, COOK in Courtroom # 0112

Published in Village Free Press March 22, 29, April 5, 2023

REAL ESTATE FOR SALE

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

WELLS FARGO, NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, NOT IN ITS INDIVIDUAL OR BANKING CAPACITY, BUT SOLELY AS INDENTURE TRUSTEE OF THE BEAR STEARNS STRUCTURED PRODUCTS

TRUST 2007-EMX1

Plaintiff, -v.-

DOROTHY RAY, MICHAEL RAY, SR. A/K/A MICHAEL RAY, ILLINOIS HOUSING DEVELOPMENT

AUTHORITY

Defendants

2019 CH 12174

1215 MANDEL AVENUE

WESTCHESTER, IL 60154

NOTICE OF SALE

PUBLIC NOTICE IS HEREBY GIV-

EN that pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale entered in the above cause on January 3, 2023, an agent for The Judicial Sales Corporation, will at 10:30 AM on April 25, 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 1215 MANDEL AVENUE, WESTCHESTER, IL 60154

Property Index No. 15-20-104-0330000

The real estate is improved with a tan brick,single family home with a detached two car garage.

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.

MCCALLA RAYMER LEIBERT PIERCE, LLC Plaintiff’s Attorneys, One North Dearborn Street, Suite 1200, Chicago, IL, 60602. Tel No. (312) 346-9088. THE JUDICIAL SALES CORPORATION

One South Wacker Drive, 24th Floor, Chicago, IL 60606-4650 (312) 236SALE

You can also visit The Judicial Sales Corporation at www.tjsc.com for a 7 day status report of pending sales.

MCCALLA RAYMER LEIBERT PIERCE, LLC

One North Dearborn Street, Suite 1200 Chicago IL, 60602 312-346-9088

E-Mail: pleadings@mccalla.com

Attorney File No. 20-04291IL

Attorney ARDC No. 61256

Attorney Code. 61256

Case Number: 2019 CH 12174

TJSC#: 43-1008

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

REAL ESTATE FOR SALE REAL ESTATE FOR SALE

information obtained will be used for that purpose.

Case # 2019 CH 12174

I3216046

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

AMERICAN ADVISORS GROUP

Plaintiff, -v.GABRIELE PLEDGE, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA ACTING BY AND THROUGH THE SECRETARY OF HOUSING AND URBAN DEVELOPMENT

Defendants

19 CH 04604

1202 ELSIE DRIVE

MELROSE PARK, IL 60160

NOTICE OF SALE

PUBLIC NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale entered in the above cause on April 1, 2022, an agent for The Judicial Sales Corporation, will at 10:30 AM on April 19, 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 1202 ELSIE

DRIVE, MELROSE PARK, IL 60160

Property Index No. 15-03-217-0080000

The real estate is improved with a single family residence.

The udgment amount was $253,506.75.

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.

You will need a photo identification issued by a government agency (driver’s license, passport, etc.) in order to gain entry into our building and the foreclosure sale room in Cook County and the same identification for sales held at other county venues where The Judicial Sales Corporation conducts foreclosure sales. For information, contact HEAVNER, BEYERS & MIHLAR, LLC Plaintiff’s Attorneys, 601 E. William St., DECATUR, IL, 62523 (217) 422-1719. Please refer to file number 368422.

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.

HEAVNER, BEYERS & MIHLAR, LLC

601 E. William St DECATUR IL, 62523 217-422-1719

Fax #: 217-422-1754

E-Mail: CookPleadings@hsbattys. com

Attorney File No. 368422

Attorney Code. 40387

Case Number: 19 CH 04604

TJSC#: 43-960

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 04604

I3215719

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF COOK COUNTY, ILLINOIS COUNTY DEPARTMENT - CHANCERY DIVISION FREEDOM MORTGAGE CORPORATION

REAL ESTATE FOR SALE

Plaintiff, -v.JOSE I SALGADO, FRANCISCO SALGADO, MODESTA REYES DELGADO, SECRETARY OF HOUSING AND URBAN DEVELOPMENT

Defendants

22 CH 07175 407 SOUTH 20TH AVENUE MAYWOOD, IL 60153

NOTICE OF SALE

PUBLIC NOTICE IS HEREBY GIV-

EN that pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale entered in the above cause on December 19, 2022, an agent for The Judicial Sales Corporation, will at 10:30 AM on April 20, 2023, at The Judicial Sales Corporation, One South Wacker, 1st Floor Suite 35R, Chicago, IL, 60606, sell at a public sale to the highest bidder, as set forth below, the following described real estate:

Commonly known as 407 SOUTH 20TH AVENUE, MAYWOOD, IL 60153

Property Index No. 15-10-313-0020000

The real estate is improved with a single family residence with garage. 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 YOU ARE THE MORTGAGOR

MCCALLA RAYMER LEIBERT PIERCE, LLC Plaintiff’s Attorneys, One North Dearborn Street, Suite 1200, Chicago, IL, 60602. Tel No. (312) 346-9088.

THE JUDICIAL SALES CORPORATION One South Wacker Drive, 24th Floor, Chicago, IL 60606-4650 (312) 236SALE

You can also visit The Judicial Sales Corporation at www.tjsc.com for a 7 day status report of pending sales.

MCCALLA RAYMER LEIBERT PIERCE, LLC One North Dearborn Street, Suite 1200 Chicago IL, 60602 312-346-9088

E-Mail: pleadings@mccalla.com

Attorney File No. 22-10308IL_804565

Attorney ARDC No. 61256

Attorney Code. 61256

Case Number: 22 CH 07175

TJSC#: 42-4722

Case # 22 CH 07175 I3215583

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF COOK COUNTY, ILLINOIS COUNTY DEPARTMENT - CHANCERY DIVISION NATIONSTAR MORTGAGE LLC

D/B/A MR. COOPER Plaintiff, -v.WILLIAM RILEY A/K/A WILLIAM E. RILEY, UNKNOWN HEIRS AND/ OR LEGATEES OF CLARA RILEY, THOMAS P. QUINN, AS SPECIAL REPRESENTATIVE FOR CLARA RILEY A/K/A CLARA J. RILEY, DECEASED, UNKNOWN OCCUPANTS, UNKNOWN OWNERS AND NON-RECORD CLAIMANTS

Defendants 22 CH 5038 803 SOUTH 19TH AVENUE MAYWOOD, IL 60153

NOTICE OF SALE

PUBLIC NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale entered in the above cause on January 18, 2023, an agent for The Judicial Sales Corporation, will at 10:30 AM on April 19, 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 803 SOUTH 19TH AVENUE, MAYWOOD, IL 60153

Property Index No. 15-10-330-002-

0000

The real estate is improved with a townhouse.

The judgment amount was $239,744.58. 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.

For information, contact The sales clerk, LOGS Legal Group LLP Plaintiff’s Attorneys, 2121 WAUKEGAN RD., SUITE 301, Bannockburn, IL, 60015 (847) 291-1717 For information call between the hours of 1pm - 3pm.. Please refer to file number 22-096327. 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. 22-096327

Attorney Code. 42168

Case Number: 22 CH 5038

TJSC#: 43-333

16 Village Free Press, March 8, 2023 vfpress.news

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

that purpose.

Case # 22 CH 5038

I3215573

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

THE HUNTINGTON NATIONAL

BANK Plaintiff, -v.-

SHERROME WALTON, THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA, SECRETARY OF HOUSING AND URBAN DEVELOPMENT, UNKNOWN

OWNERS AND NON-RECORD

CLAIMANTS

Defendants

2022 CH 01796

1914 SOUTH 17TH AVENUE

MAYWOOD, IL 60153

NOTICE OF SALE

PUBLIC NOTICE IS HEREBY GIV-

EN that pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale entered in the above cause on January 18, 2023, an agent for The Judicial Sales Corporation, will at 10:30 AM on April 19, 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 1914 SOUTH 17TH AVENUE, MAYWOOD, IL

60153

Property Index No. 15-15-315-022-

0000

The real estate is improved with a single family residence

The judgment amount was $184,880.38.

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.

You will need a photo identification issued by a government agency (driver’s license, passport, etc.) in order to gain entry into our building and the foreclosure sale room in Cook County and the same identification for sales held at other county venues where The Judicial Sales Corporation conducts foreclosure sales. For information, contact MANLEY DEAS KOCHALSKI LLC Plaintiff’s Attorneys, ONE EAST WACKER SUITE 1250, Chicago, IL, 60601 (312) 651-6700. Please refer to file number 22-003916.

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.

MANLEY DEAS KOCHALSKI LLC

ONE EAST WACKER, SUITE 1250 Chicago IL, 60601 312-651-6700

E-Mail: AMPS@manleydeas.com

Attorney File No. 22-003916

Attorney Code. 48928

Case Number: 2022 CH 01796

TJSC#: 43-424

Case # 2022 CH 01796

I3215525

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

PNC BANK, NATIONAL ASSOCIATION

Plaintiff, -v.-

JUDY A. THOMPSON, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA ACTING BY AND THROUGH THE SECRETARY OF HOUSING AND URBAN DEVEL-

OPMENT

Defendants

22 CH 06348

1716 S 8TH AVE.

MAYWOOD, IL 60153

NOTICE OF SALE PUBLIC NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale entered in the above cause on January 19, 2023, an agent for The Judicial Sales Corporation, will at 10:30 AM on April 20, 2023, at The Judicial Sales Corporation, One South Wacker, 1st Floor Suite 35R, Chicago, IL, 60606, sell at a public sale to the highest bidder, as set forth below, the following described real estate:

Commonly known as 1716 S 8TH AVE., MAYWOOD, IL 60153

Property Index No. 15-14-156-0140000

The real estate is improved with a single family residence. The judgment amount was $126,936.46.

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.

For information, contact HEAVNER,

BEYERS & MIHLAR, LLC Plaintiff’s Attorneys, 601 E. William St., DECATUR, IL, 62523 (217) 422-1719.

Please refer to file number 1651043.

THE JUDICIAL SALES CORPORATION

One South Wacker Drive, 24th Floor, Chicago, IL 60606-4650 (312) 236SALE

You can also visit The Judicial Sales Corporation at www.tjsc.com for a 7 day status report of pending sales.

HEAVNER, BEYERS & MIHLAR, LLC

601 E. William St DECATUR IL, 62523

217-422-1719

Fax #: 217-422-1754

E-Mail: CookPleadings@hsbattys. com

Attorney File No. 1651043

Attorney Code. 40387

Case Number: 22 CH 06348

TJSC#: 43-299

Case # 22 CH 06348 I3215386

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF COOK COUNTY, ILLINOIS COUNTY DEPARTMENT - CHANCERY DIVISION FEDERAL HOME LOAN MORTGAGE CORPORATION, AS TRUSTEE FOR THE BENEFIT OF THE FREDDIE MAC SEASONED LOANS STRUCTURED TRANSACTION TRUST SERIES 2020-3;

Plaintiff, vs. RHEADIE EAGINS; DENISE S. EAGINS; CITIBANK NATIONAL ASSOCIATION FKA CITIBANK FEDERAL SAVINGS BANK; ILLINOIS HOUSING DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY; UNKNOWN OWNERS AND NONRECORD CLAIMANTS;

Defendants, 22 CH 715 NOTICE OF SALE

PUBLIC NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale entered in the above entitled cause Intercounty Judicial Sales Corporation will on Tuesday, April 18, 2023 at the hour of 11 a.m. in their office at 120 West Madison Street, Suite 718A, Chi-

ESTATE FOR SALE

to the highest bidder for cash, as set forth below, the following described mortgaged real estate: P.I.N. 15-09-218-005-0000. Commonly known as 2610 Glos Ave., Bellwood, IL 60104. The mortgaged real estate is improved with a single family residence. If the subject mortgaged real estate is a unit of a common interest community, the purchaser of the unit other than a mortgagee shall pay the assessments required by subsection (g-1) of Section 18.5 of the Condominium Property Act. Sale terms: 10% down by certified funds, balance, by certified funds, within 24 hours. No refunds. The property will NOT be open for inspection.

For information call The Sales Department at Plaintiff’s Attorney, Diaz Anselmo & Associates, P.A., 1771 West Diehl Road, Naperville, Illinois 60563. (630) 453-6925. 1446181310

INTERCOUNTY JUDICIAL SALES CORPORATION intercountyjudicialsales.com

I3215217

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF COOK COUNTY, ILLINOIS COUNTY DEPARTMENT - CHANCERY DIVISION WELLS FARGO BANK NA; Plaintiff, vs. SHAVON E. WALKER AKA SHAVON WALKER; JAMES T. JACKSON AKA JAMES JACKSON; UNKNOWN OWNERS AND NONRECORD CLAIMANTS; Defendants, 19 CH 6251

NOTICE OF SALE

PUBLIC NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale entered in the above entitled cause Intercounty Judicial Sales Corporation will on Monday, April 17, 2023 at the hour of 11 a.m. in their office at 120 West Madison Street, Suite 718A, Chicago, Illinois, sell at public auction to the highest bidder for cash, as set forth below, the following described mortgaged real estate: P.I.N. 15-10-408-010-0000. Commonly known as 312 South 10th Avenue, Maywood, IL 60153. The mortgaged real estate is improved with a single family residence. If the subject mortgaged real estate is a unit of a common interest community, the purchaser of the unit other than a mortgagee shall pay the assessments

ESTATE FOR SALE REAL ESTATE FOR SALE

18.5 of the Condominium Property Act Sale terms: 10% down by certified funds, balance, by certified funds, within 24 hours. No refunds. The property will NOT be open for inspection.

For information call Sales Department at Plaintiff’s Attorney, Manley Deas Kochalski, LLC, One East Wacker Drive, Chicago, Illinois 60601. (614) 2205611. 19-016721 ADC F2

INTERCOUNTY JUDICIAL SALES CORPORATION intercountyjudicialsales.com

I3215196

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF COOK COUNTY, ILLINOIS COUNTY DEPARTMENT - CHANCERY DIVISION PNC BANK NATIONAL ASSOCIATION; Plaintiff, vs. UNKNOWN HEIRS AND LEGATEES OF PETER ZOUGRAS; UNKNOWN HEIRS AND LEGATES OF SHERYL J. ZOUGRAS; SPIROS J. ZOUGRAS; STATE OF ILLINOIS DEPARTMENT OF REVENUE; UNKNOWN OWNERS AND NONRECORD CLAIMANTS; Defendants, 22 CH 7871

NOTICE OF SALE

PUBLIC NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale entered in the above entitled cause Intercounty Judicial Sales Corporation will on Monday, May 1, 2023 at the hour of 11 a.m. in their office at 120 West Madison Street, Suite 718A, Chicago, Illinois, sell at public auction to the highest bidder for cash, as set forth below, the following described mortgaged real estate:

P.I.N. 15-21-423-010-0000.

Commonly known as 2118 Bristol Ave., Westchester, IL 60154.

Sale terms: 10% down by certified funds, balance, by certified funds, within 24 hours. No refunds. The property will NOT be open for inspection.

For information call The Sales Department at Plaintiff’s Attorney, Diaz Anselmo & Associates, P.A., 1771

nois 60563. (630) 453-6925. 6746183348 ADC

INTERCOUNTY JUDICIAL SALES CORPORATION intercountyjudicialsales.com

I3216277

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

US BANK NA AS SUCCESSOR TRUSTEE TO LASALLE BANK NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, ON BEHALF OF THE HOLDERS OF BEAR STEARNS ASSET BACKED SECURITIES I TRUST 2006-AQ1, ASSET BACKED CERTIFICATES SERIES 2006-AQ1; Plaintiff, vs. DERRICK FORD; THEODOCIA L. FORD; STATE OF ILLINOIS; UNKNOWN OWNERS AND NONRECORD CLAIMANTS;

Defendants, 19 CH 2846

NOTICE OF SALE

PUBLIC NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale entered in the above entitled cause Intercounty Judicial Sales Corporation will on Tuesday, May 2, 2023 at the hour of 11 a.m. in their office at 120 West Madison Street, Suite 718A, Chicago, Illinois, sell at public auction to the highest bidder for cash, as set forth below, the following described mortgaged real estate:

P.I.N. 15-10-302-030-0000.

Commonly known as 413 23rd Avenue, Bellwood, IL 60104

The mortgaged real estate is improved with a single family residence. If the subject mortgaged real estate is a unit of a common interest community, the purchaser of the unit other than a mortgagee shall pay the assessments required by subsection (g-1) of Section 18.5 of the Condominium Property Act. Sale terms: 10% down by certified funds, balance, by certified funds, within 24 hours. No refunds. The property will NOT be open for inspection.

For information call Sales Department at Plaintiff’s Attorney, Manley Deas Kochalski, LLC, One East Wacker Drive, Chicago, Illinois 60601. (614) 220-5611. 19-007507 F2

INTERCOUNTY JUDICIAL SALES CORPORATION intercountyjudicialsales.com I3216311

Village Free Press, March 29, 2023 17 vfpress.news

REAL

SH E SNOR ES MOR E T HAN I DO, B UT I STILL LOV E MY HU MAN. — BAN DIT adopte d 11-26-09

18 Village Free Press, March 29, 2023 vfpress.news CELEBRATE TWO DECADES OF THEATRE ARTS PERFORMANCES AT DOMINICAN UNIVERSITY tickets are free; donation to the theatre arts scholarship fund appreciated GET TIX! BOX OFFICE (708) 488-5000 events.dom.edu April 1 @ 7:30p 20 YEARS OF SONGS & STORIES WITH KRISTA HANSEN & GUESTS A Retrospective Revue free!

Village Free Press, March 29, 2023 19 B.B.Q. RIBS & CHICKEN BURGERS & HOT DOGS Italian Beef Sandwich w/ Fries $9.89 3 Vienna Hot Dogs w/ Fries $9.99 Wednesday Gyros Plate Dinner 1 lb meat, 2 pita breads, fries & 3 cups sauce $13.99 Every day Special! Gyros with fries $9.69 1/4 Lb Double Cheeseburger Big Mickey! $3.69 525 N Harlem Ave, Oak Park (708) 848-3333 11am - 9pm Daily includes fries or baked potato, coleslaw and garlic bread 1/2 Slab Dinner $14.49 Full Slab Dinner $21.79 Mickey’s is the place! Mickey’s Rib Special RibFest Every Day!

20 Village Free Press, March 29, 2023 vfpress.news Zing Health makes it easy! Ask me how to get a FREE Continuous Glucose Monitor and $0 preferred insulin medications! Find out if you qualify for a Zing Health Medicare Advantage plan! Take Control OF YOUR DIABETES Zing Health makes it easy! Ask me how to get a FREE Continuous Glucose Monitor $0 preferred insulin medications! Find out if you qualify for a Zing Health Medicare Advantage plan! Take Control OF YOUR DIABETES [[A g e n t N am e ] ] Zing Health makes it easy! Ask me how to get a Continuous Glucose Monitor $0 preferred insulin medications! Find out if you qualify for a Zing Health Medicare Advantage plan! Take Control OF YOUR DIABETES [[A g e n t N am e ] ] [[A g e n t Ti t l e ] ] [ [ XXX-XXX-XXXX] ] Find out if you qualify for a Zing Health Medicare Advantage plan! Fred Schmidt Senior Insurance Advisor 708-733-0276 Take Control OF YOUR DIABETES Zing Health makes it easy! Ask me how Monitor and a Zing Zing Health is a Medicare Health depends on contract rights laws and does not disability, or sex. insuremenow.store insuremenow.store Zing Health makes it easy! Ask me how to get a FREE Continuous Glucose Monitor and $0 preferred insulin medications! Find out if you qualify for a Zing Health Medicare Advantage plan! Y0149_ZH-Insulin-B001_M CMS Accepted 11132022 HHDIAGNTBOP1 [[A g e n t N am e ] ] [[A g e n t Ti t l e ] ] [ [ XXX-XXX-XXXX] ] Zing Health makes it easy! Ask me how to get a FREE Continuous Glucose Monitor and $0 preferred insulin medications! Find out if you qualify for a Zing Health Medicare Advantage plan! Y0149_ZH-Insulin-B001_M CMS Accepted 11132022 HHDIAGNTBOP1 Take Control OF YOUR DIABETES [[A g e n t N am e ] ] [[A g e n t Ti t l e ] ] [ [ XXX-XXX-XXXX] ] Zing Health makes it easy! Ask me how to get a FREE Continuous Glucose Monitor and $0 preferred insulin medications! Find out if you qualify for a Zing Health Medicare Advantage plan! Y0149_ZH-Insulin-B001_M CMS Accepted 11132022 HHDIAGNTBOP1 Take Control OF YOUR DIABETES [[A g e n t N am e ] ] [[A g e n t Ti t l e ] ] [ [ XXX-XXX-XXXX] ] Zing Health is a Medicare Advantage Plan with a Medicare contract. Enrollment in Zing Health depends on contract renewal. Zing Health complies with applicable Federal civil rights laws and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, age, disability, or sex.