Village Free Press_122519

the village free press Vol. III No. 52

Pension changes ahead, PAGE 7

D209 supt. resigns to take another job Dr. Jesse Rodriguez will leave for Zion-Benton Township High School District 126

by July 2020

By MICHAEL ROMAIN Staff Reporter

Proviso Township High Schools District 209 Supt. Jesse Rodriguez is resigning to take the superintendent position at ZionBenton Township High School District 126.

The District 126 school board approved a three-year contract for Rodriguez at a meeting on Dec. 17. He’ll leave the district on June 30, 2020, and start in his new role at Zion on July 1, 2020.

“This is a life-changing opportunity,” Rodriguez said in an interview on Dec. 18, adding that the move will allow him the opportunity to work five minutes from where he lives and devote more time with his family. Rodriguez said that his son will be a senior at the high school in the fall.

The superintendent’s decision comes less than a year after the D209 school board voted 4-3 in favor of granting him a new See RODRUGUEZ on page 4

DECEMBER 25, 2019

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Merry Christmas!

PAGE 9

ABOVE THE RIM: The 1969 state championship Proviso East Pirates. Top row, l-r: Asst. coaches Bill Ebenezer, Bill Gloss, Theodore (last name unavailable), Manager Ernest “Chummy” Lewis, Curt (last name unavailable) and Head Coach Tom Millikin. Second row, l-r: Howard Godfrey, John Munchoff, Ralph Sykes, Ira Carswell, Keith Rash. Bottom row, l-r: Walt Williams, Harvey Roberts, Jim Brewer, Pete Bouzeos and William “Billy” Allen. Story starts on page 2.

Submitted

Want lower property taxes?

Boost school funding, researchers say Proposal comes ahead of special property tax task force report due out this month

By PETER HANCOCK Capitol News Illinois

SPRINGFIELD — A pair of researchers are suggesting the best way to reduce property taxes in Illinois is for the state

to take over a greater share of funding for public schools and consolidate some units of local government.

Frank Manzo, policy director at the Illinois Economic Policy Institute, and

Robert Bruno, director of the Project for Middle Class Renewal at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, argue in a new report that such a plan would not See SCHOOL FUNDING on page 8

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Village Free Press | December 25, 2019

Above the rim

the village free press

When the 1969 Proviso East Pirates won the school’s first state title, they transcended the sport

Editor & Publisher Michael Romain Strategic Consultant Kamil Brady Advertising Director Dawn Ferencak Editorial Designer Debbie Becker Advertising Design Support Andrew Mead, Mark Moroney HOW TO REACH US Village Free Press c/o Wednesday Journal 141 S. Oak Park Ave. Oak Park, IL 60302 PHONE: 773-626-6332 FAX: (708) 467-9066 thevillagefreepress.org Twitter: @village_free Facebook: @maywoodnews The Village Free Press is published weekly

by Michael Romain. It is distributed free of charge at locations throughout Maywood. © 2018 Village Free Press We’re proud to partner with Wednesday Journal, Inc.

Publisher Dan Haley

“To learn to be human is to develop through the give and take of communication an effective sense of being an individually distinctive member of a community.”

—John Dewey

By MICHAEL ROMAIN Editor

Fifty years ago, on Saturday, March 22, 1969, Proviso East High School in Maywood won the first of its four state championship basketball titles — a feat that transcended sports and unified a community that was becoming more and more divided against itself, buckling under the weight of racism and prejudice.

Recently, three members of that historic 1969 team — captain and star center Jim Brewer, guard Walt Williams and sixth man (“Mr. Everything,” Williams calls him) Ira Carswell — sat down to talk about the significance of that win.

“Nineteen-sixty-nine became such a big year, because of 1968, when King was assassinated,” Williams said. “That changed all the dynamics.”

“At the time, there was a tug-of-war going on in people’s opinions, between Malcolm X and King,” Brewer said. “Both of them were villains. People think it was all smooth and it wasn’t. It was like, ‘Who are you with?’”

King’s assassination also effectively laid to rest the notion among many young, black activists like classmate Fred Hampton that racial progress would be won nonviolently. And so the tension that had been building within the high school between whites and blacks, more and more of whom were moving into Proviso Township, only grew.

“All of the conflicts we were having — the fights in the hallway or cafeteria, and the protests on certain issues like the homecoming queen and somebody getting kicked out for no reason — that wasn’t the total student body.”

According to news reports at the time, a large fight broke out in the cafeteria in September 1967, when all five of the finalists for homecoming queen, all of whom were chosen by school officials, were white. After extensive property damage, more than 100 members of the National Guard were called into the

school.

“They had this camera system back in 1968-69 that was centrally located in the dean’s office,” Brewer recalled. “And that camera was equipped with mace spray.”

Williams remembers walking from one class to another through a sharp, stinging mist, his eyes covered, the darkness symbolizing what at the time was a systematic void, a grand absence of opportunity for blacks who wanted to be more than manual laborers.

“In the community, there were no activities for blacks,” said Carswell.

“You have to understand the time period,” Brewer said. “You really didn’t have anybody on TV who was black — other than, maybe, Nat King Cole, and we didn’t really see him that often.

“And in the course of going to school, we didn’t understand it ourselves. All of the clubs in the place didn’t necessarily exclude us, but you had to really reach to get involved with all of that stuff. Unless you were somebody who had, as parents, professionals who understood the worth of that kind of stuff going on your resume so that you could go to college, you didn’t know that you needed to be involved in this club and that society.”

In a 2018 interview with the Forest Park Review, Doug Deuchler, who was a rookie English teacher at East in the fall of 1968, recalled the lack of black presence within the school’s administration and curriculum.

“Proviso was packed with over 4,000 students and Doug estimated about a third of the student body was black,” wrote Review columnist John Rice. “He believed these students felt disenfranchised. The administration and staff were mostly white. There was no black history being taught, or black literature being studied. The white students seemed to be in control.”

“There was racial tension, because the neighborhood was changing,” Brewer said. “Black students at the time were See 1969 EAST on page 5

SHANEL ROMAIN

A HERO’S WELCOME: Top, an article in the Alton Evening Telegraph includes a photo of East Coach Tom Millikin during the parade that followed his team’s 1969 state championship.

Below, Jim Brewer, the team’s captain, remembers the moment at a Broadview Starbucks on Dec. 20.

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Village Free Press | December 25, 2019

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Not your mother’s home ec class Culinary arts and nutrition at Proviso East

By TOM HOLMES When Chef Keith Morris hears Proviso East students talking about his culinary arts and nutrition program as “cooking classes,” he corrects them. “My classes are classes with cooking in them,” he says.

“We’re trying to transform the program,” he explained, “from home ec to more of an industry-based program, to make sure students have a chance to learn what is expected of them in the professional world.”

In an online article on the website, The Takeout, Gwen Ihnat wrote, “Those of us of a certain age may remember a time period when high-school girls took home economics class, and high-school boys took shop. … [The expectation was that] women would become homemakers and take care of their families.”

The world has changed. Many women enter the work force whether or not they get married and have children and many men now work in the hospitality industry. The percentage of boys in Morris’ culinary program is 65 percent, or 29 out of 65.

Morris pushes students who show interest in taking his introductory course, called Nutrition and Culinary Arts, that what they will be getting into is an “occupations” class.

“If you want to come into the class,” he tells them, “you have to have some intention of working in the hospitality industry or at least the desire to learn more about it.

You may not be sold on the culinary arts as a career, but if your work ethic is where it should be, I will give you opportunities to go on field trips and work on catering projects.”

The kind of learning experience Morris provides in his culinary classes fits in with a new model of education recently implemented in D209. Called College and Career

Academies, the new model divides the high school into three smaller academies within one school. The culinary program is located inside the Business and Human Services Academy at Proviso East.

The D209 website describes the model as “creating small learning communities within the high school,” which include “a family-like atmosphere, college preparation and real-world experience.”

Regarding the family-like atmosphere, Brittany Galindo, Christopher Sanchez, Gerardo Corral, Brittin Wheaton and Jonathan Gracia were among eight students who chose to spend their lunch period last week Thursday in the chef’s classroom instead of the school’s cafeteria.

All four talked about how their culinary classes have prepared them to get more schooling after graduation.

Brittin Wheaton is a senior who has taken all three courses that Morris and his colleague Jennifer Miller offer and has the goal of becoming a bakery and pastry chef.

“I plan,” she said, “on going to Triton College and taking culinary classes there for two years and then finishing at a four-year university.”

Christopher Sanchez, a senior who will graduate in June, plans to go on to some kind of higher education and then get into the hospitality industry. He admitted he wasn’t sure about the culinary class when he signed up for it but said, “Once I got into it, I enjoyed it.”

Brittany Galindo is a senior who doesn’t know for sure what career path she wants to take in the future but said that what she has learned from Morris isn’t just cooking skills but lessons that can be transferred to anything she will do.

Morris said he reminds his students regu-

larly that his class is an “occupations” class in which they learn about the importance of getting to work on time, teamwork on the job and how to present themselves — “skills and habits which are transferable to anywhere.”

One of the experiences Galindo recalled was a field trip Morris took them on to a downtown hotel where staff members described how to run an “industrial” kitchen, which fits in with the new D209 model of including “real-world experiences with local businesses and professionals.”

Another real world experience Morris felt good about involved eight of his students catering a D209 Together event last week.

“The students got all kinds of praise for

Submitted

CULINARY ARTS: Top photo, Proviso East’s Chef Keith Morris oversees culinary arts students as they prepare and serve appetizers at a pop-up 209 Together scholarship fundraiser on Dec. 11. Almost $3,500 was raised at the event. Below, the students in Morris’ class pose for a group photo.

their work,” he said, “and guests wanted to talk to them. The people were impressed not only by the food but also by the way the students presented themselves in professional uniforms and carried themselves as professionals.

The focus in all three academies is not just on preparing students for college, but also on getting a career. Gracia, for example, plans on going to college after graduation next year but with a purpose. He wants to major in dietetics because his enjoyment of cooking has evolved into an interest in how what we eat affects the human body.

Another way the culinary program is different than the old home ec classes is that Morris is in the midst of a transformation of his classrooms themselves and the equipment in them. When the redo has been completed, Morris and Miller will have 1,400 square feet of space and an industrial, stateof-the-art kitchen, like the ones in restaurants and hotels, which will be equipped with the latest technology, including eight burner ranges, overhead mirrors, pull-down electrical outlets and double-stacked convection ovens.

One reason Morris is able to give his culinary students real-world experiences and insights is because, in addition to his training at Washburne Culinary and Hospitality Institute, he has experienced virtually every aspect of the hospitality industry from flipping burgers at Wendy’s to managing kitchens.

At present Morris has 65 students enrolled in the three courses he teaches, all of which are elective. A full load for teachers is five classes, and he is doing some marketing among the freshmen to increase the number of students who take at least the introductory course.

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Village Free Press | December 25, 2019

RODRIGUEZ Resigning from page 1 5-year contract that would have entailed his annual base salary growing to $257,648 by 2023, district records show. Theresa Kelly — the board’s longest serving member who voted against the contract, arguing that it was too long — said at the time that the contract was the lengthiest she’d seen during her some two-decades-long tenure on the board.

On Dec. 18, Rodriguez, who was hired to a 3-year contract in February 2016, rattled off the district’s major achievements during his tenure — among them the implementation of a 5-year financial plan, the creation of a 5-year facilities master plan that provides funding for upcoming capital improvement projects that are among the most substantial in the district’s history, the implementation of International Baccalaureate and additional Advanced Placement coursework across the district and a higher bond rating, among other accomplishments.

Just last week, Rodriguez announced that the Financial Oversight Panel would leave the district by Dec. 31. The FOP was appointed by the Illinois State Board of Education in 2008 to help a district that, back then, was in dire financial straits. At a joint meeting between the FOP and the school board, FOP Chair Craig Schilling praised the district’s progress, citing the 5-year financial plan and the fully funded facilities master plan — both aspects critical for the FOP agreeing to leave the district.

“Proviso is in a much, much better place to attract superintendent candidates,” Rodriguez said. “It’s in a much better place and I think there will be a lot of folks attracted.”

But those achievements haven’t come without some friction. In April 2018, after the D209 board voted against a series of key hires and staffing adjustments within his office, Rodriguez said he was “at a crossroads.” And just last week, the board voted 4-2 to reinstate Proviso West Principal Nia Abdullah that Rodriguez had suspended for matters that were not made public, with some board members denouncing the suspension and others claiming that the vote and comments related to it undermined the superintendent.

“All the data was laid out and the superintendent asked for the board’s advice and direction, and no one on the board said anything,” Wagner said during the Dec. 10 meeting where the vote was made.

“I was the only one who said that I didn’t think it was a good fit. I looked around at everyone and said, ‘OK, the superintendent is asking for direction in this matter. This is our chance.’ And no one said anything,” he said. “We told Dr. Rodriguez to do what he saw fit and the board would back him up and now we’re hanging him out to dry.”

On Dec. 18, both Rodriguez and Wagner dismissed any notion that the reinstatement or any other previous board table friction

MICHAEL ROMAIN

MOVING ON: Supt. Jesse Rodriguez, sitting in an administrative conference room at PMSA on Dec. 18, announced that he will resign from D209 to take a superintendent position in Zion, which is closer to where he lives. played major parts in the superintendent’s resignation.

“Prior to that [Dec. 10 board meeting], I had already decided that it was in my best interest to move forward,” Rodriguez said.

“That meeting was transactional to me.

Over the last two years, with the work we’ve done as superintendent and board, we’ve had a lot of support.”

“The Proviso West situation was not the first time he had the board disagree with him,” Wagner said. “I think it was more of a situation of him thinking about his family.”

Cynthia Moreno, the district’s communications director, echoed those points, explaining that the superintendent has had overwhelming board support on most of the major decisions his administration has made.

“Overall, I think we received the support we needed,” she said on Dec. 18.

“I know the timing [between the Proviso West decision and his resignation] seems like, ‘Wow,’ but you do have to go through a process, it’s an intensive process,” Rodriguez said, referencing his hiring in Zion. “Yes, I was in the fast route and did not spend three months doing this, but it was not a one-week thing either.”

“I was not expecting this at all, I have to admit,” said Wagner. “It was surprising. I spoke with him and I think he’s doing this for all the right reasons that are best for

him and his family. Speaking for myself, the work he did was absolutely phenomenal.

“He did things in collaboration with the board that no one thought was really possible,” Wagner said. “He got the district on a firm financial footing to the point where the FOP left. He was a unifying force in our community, pushing and helping define the pre-K to 12th-grade mindset in our education community. That didn’t really exist before.

He supported our feeder principals in creating these transformational plans to set the groundwork for sustained academic improvement.”

Rodriguez acknowledged that many people he has called and texted in the wake of his decision to resign have expressed concern about what his departure might mean going back to the days of no-bid multimillion-dollar contracts and a district rife with patronage hires.

“I have answered many, many calls or text messaged everybody who has contacted me and they have said, ‘This type of change can set us 20 years back,’” Rodriguez said.

“But we do have very strong structures in place within the board and administration that will sustain progress regardless of leadership changes.

“For example, we have a construction model for how decision are to be made,” he said. “This model will have checks and balances to prevent operations that are not

aligned with best practices.”

Rodriguez said that he commutes more than an hour to and from his District 209 office within Proviso Math and Science Academy in Forest Park each day, and would often work nights and weekends in the district — a situation that took a toll on his family life, he said.

In a statement released Dec. 17 by the Zion-Benton Township school board, Jerry Nordstrom, the school board president, said that Rodriguez “brings a history of excellence, improving student performance and creating a strong, collaborative culture that provides pathways for every student to succeed.”

The board explained that it utilized consultants School Exec Connect to facilitate the search process. They said that the consultant received more than 30 applications. Rodriguez will succeed retiring District 126 Supt. Chris Clark.

“He really put his heart and soul into working on behalf of the children of our community and probably, most definitely, to the detriment of his personal life,” Wagner said. “He was absolutely consumed with transforming our school district and it became that time.”

Wagner said that the board plans on holding an emergency meeting to discuss next steps before the year is out.

CONTACT: michael@oakpark.com

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1969 EAST

They were first from page 1 becoming aware of the history and things that they just hadn’t discovered in their elementary education,” he said. “There were a lot of books coming out by people like James Baldwin and Ralph Ellison. There was a lot of history we weren’t exposed to. It was kind of like an awakening. We were like, ‘Hey, we got rights.’”

If Brewer and his teammates were beginning to realize racial inequality, they were nonetheless able to focus on a space where the playing field seemed more level, where black students could exert a degree of autonomy, and where black athletes and coaches went to war alongside their white counterparts — the basketball court.

A community first, then a team The 1969 Proviso East team was a tightly knit unit, Brewer said, adding that most of his teammates were either his relatives or longtime friends.

“Walt and I are related,” Brewer said. “Ira is a first cousin. Walt is my nephew and our best friends, collectively, were Harvey Roberts, Billy Allen and Ralph Sykes. I knew all of those guys since at least the first grade and our parents knew each other.”

The team was led by Coach Tom Millikin, who in 1948 played on a state championship team at Pinckneyville High, located in downstate Illinois. Millikin fueled the team’s drive to win by taking them to the state championship tournament in Champaign during the 1967-68 season.

“We were the only team to have beaten Evanston and that year we saw them win it all,” Brewer recalled. “We were like, ‘If they can do it, we can do it, too.’ So, the next season, in 1968-69, we were on a mission

Village Free Press | December 25, 2019

5

and we didn’t want to lose.”

Proviso East was 27-1 and ranked No. 1 in the state heading into the 1969 Illinois High School Basketball Association Tournament.

“In 28 games, no team has scored over 60 points against Proviso East!” touted the Alton Evening Telegraph in an article published March 21, 1969, just as the tournament was picking up steam.

“We held about eight opponents under 40 points,” Brewer recalled. “Our mission was to hold you to your lowest score. Every time we did that, coach would reward SHANEL ROMAIN us with pizza or a social night. We were STILL A BIG DEAL: Ira Carswell, top left, and Walt Williams, below, reminisce on their 1969 state title at a Broadvery defense-oriented. view Starbucks. The win helped heal the racial divide at Proviso East High School.

We had probably the best defenders at every said, recalling his teammates’ elementary a reporter wrote that Proviso East position just about.” schools, which were all-important at the Principal Hubert Pitt “ended Sunday’s wild Along with team captain Brewer — (a celebration in honor of the returning heroes time. highly recruited “6 foot 7 inch, 210-pound” “Billy and I went to Irving,” Williams said. by announcing there would be no classes at defensive prodigy who played “defense like “Of course, Walt started off at Washington, either Proviso East or Proviso West high.”

Bill Russell,” Millikin once told a reporter) Pitt’s announcement received “the loudest which is the only school that matters in the — East’s starting lineup included Roberts, cheer,” but “previous to that Capt. Jim story,” Brewer joked.

Pete Boozeos, Williams and Allen.

Back then, the state championship “was Brewer, who presented the championship In addition to Carswell, other players the only game in town,” Williams said. “Now trophy to Pitt, had garnered the loudest included Keith Rash, Ralph Sykes, Howard you’ve got four and five different classes. cheers. Brewer wore a slipper-like shoe Godfrey, John Munchoff, John Nagle and Understand, we were one of the last Class on his sprained left ankle, a memento of Forrest Coburn, Brewer and Williams A winners before they broke it down into Friday night’s battle with Waukegan [in recalled.

A and AA. The second state champion was the tournament’s Elite Eight contest, which “Harvey and I were the Washington School Class 2A. We had to beat some 714 schools by East won 52-44] but an injury which did not boys, Pete was from Jane Addams,” Brewer my recollection. I might prevent him from leading his club to the be wrong, but we were the championship.”

The victory helped usher in a moment only game.”

The team beat of healing for Proviso East and the wider Champaign Central 37-36 community, the players recalled 50 years in the semifinal. Carswell later, and served as a model for East’s future said he still hears the roar title runs.

“I think about how Proviso East, which of some 19,000 people in the stands at Assembly is dictated by borders because you had to Hall, where the Pirates live in them to play at the school, and yet beat Peoria Spalding 58- we have four state championship teams,” Carswell said. “You look at all the schools 51, to win the title.

Carswell also keeps and how they’re recruiting. Look at all the an article clipping schools around who have yet to win state announcing that more championships and we won four. How did than 125,000 people that happen? Why? And we started it.”

“As people get older, things diminish in lined the parade route the Sunday following importance, because they’re not current,” the Pirates’ win. A Brewer said. “But at that time, [the state title roaring crowd met the victory] was a big deal and we don’t want to large motorcade at the minimize it. It’s still a big deal. It meant a Eisenhower Expressway. lot to people, because there was an evolution “It was unbelievable,” of ideas during that time and that’s how we Carswell said of the really helped other folks. People felt, ‘Well, crowd. if they can do that, we can, too.’ That, they In an article published can’t take away.”

March 24, 1969 in the CONTACT: thevillagefreepress@gmail.com Alton Evening Telegraph,

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Village Free Press | December 25, 2019

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Pritzker signs pension consolidation bill into law The 649 funds in the suburbs and downstate will be combined into two

By JERRY NOWICKI Capitol News Illinois

SPRINGFIELD — A new law signed by Democratic Gov. J.B. Pritzker Wednesday will consolidate 649 downstate and suburban police and firefighter pension funds into just two.

Pritzker signed the measure, passed in the recent fall veto session, in Chicago and hailed it as an initiative 70 years in the making.

“Bipartisanship in this General Assembly has achieved what none of their predecessors have been able to do: consolidate the (nearly) 650 downstate and suburban pension funds to just two, amplifying their investment power and reducing the burden on property taxpayers,” Pritzker said in a news release. “Working together, we are helping hundreds of cities in Illinois alleviate their spiraling property tax burdens, and just as importantly, we’re showing that Illinois can tackle its most intractable problems.”

The governor’s office said Senate Bill 1300, the legislation he signed Wednesday, will leverage “$15 billion in assets — $8.7 billion in the police fund and $6.3 (billion) in the fire fund — to increase investment returns and lower management costs.” It estimated the

new law would create greater returns from $820 million to $2.5 billion over the next five years, and “billions more over the next 20 years.”

The bill passed with broad bipartisan support by tallies of 96-14 in the House and 42-12 in the Senate.

It was also supported by the Associated Fire Fighters of Illinois, the Illinois Fraternal Order of Police and the Illinois Municipal League, a statewide organization that represents local communities throughout Illinois “Consolidating the assets of the … downstate public safety pension funds throughout Illinois will help provide stronger investment returns for active and retired public safety employees and

reduce redundant administrative costs on Illinois’ taxpayers,” IML Executive Director Brad Cole said in a release. “This is a good first step forward on the complicated and comprehensive issue of pension reform.”

Despite bipartisan support, detractors, including several Republicans, opposed a provision that retroactively enhances benefits for so-called “Tier 2” employees — those hired after Jan. 1, 2011, when the state implemented new retirement systems with substantially lower benefits.

Several pension experts, however, have said the provision was necessary because many of those positions are not covered by

GOV. J. B. PRITZKER

Your

Social Security. That’s allowed under federal law known as a “safe harbor” provision, but only if the benefits are at least as generous as what Social Security would pay.

The governor’s office said the new law “brings Tier 2 pensions into compliance to avoid future additional liabilities, which is estimated to cost $70 to $95 million while projected investment gains can generate an additional $820 million to $2.5 billion.”

Rep. Mark Batinick, a Plainfield Republican who serves as minority spokesperson on the House Personnel and Pensions Committee, praised the passage of the bill in a news release.

“Our state’s broken pension system has been a heavy weight on the backs of Illinois taxpayers,” Batinick said. “With today’s bill signed into law I can proudly say that we are providing relief to our hardworking residents. This was a significant bipartisan reform effort that will make positive change.

The work is not done on pensions, but today we can all celebrate this success.”

The bill was a recommendation of the Illinois Pension Consolidation Feasibility Task Force, which is a body Pritzker created early in February.

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Village Free Press | December 25, 2019

SCHOOL FUNDING One solution from page 1 only hold down future property tax hikes, but it would actually help create jobs and stimulate the state’s economy.

“There have been previous commissions on this issue since the 1980s,” Manzo said in an interview. “Four of them, in fact, and all four unanimously found that really meaningful property tax relief for homeowners would require more state funding for public education. And in three of the four task forces, local government consolidation was also directly or indirectly called for. But these are structural problems that have frankly only deepened since those reports.”

Illinois lawmakers passed Senate Bill 1932 earlier this year establishing a bipartisan Property Tax Relief Task Force. It was part of Democratic Gov. J.B. Pritzker’s socalled “fair tax” package that also included a proposed constitutional amendment allowing the state to levy a multi-tiered “graduated” income tax in which people would pay higher rates on higher levels of income. Voters will decide on that amendment in the November 2020 elections.

Pritzker has said he wants part of the new revenue from a graduated tax — estimated at about $3 billion a year — to go toward local

property tax relief by raising the current property tax credit that property owners can take on their income taxes.

But in their report, which they shared with Capitol News Illinois ahead of its public release, Manzo and Bruno argue that the state’s current property tax system and its school funding system are structurally flawed.

Specifically, they point to the fact that property taxes account for two-thirds of school funding in Illinois while the state pays only about 27 percent, or about half the national average.

They also point to the state’s Property Tax Extension Limitation Law, or PTELL, which allows automatic property tax increases each year, but also caps those increases at the rate of inflation or 5 percent, whichever is less, thus preventing many local governments, and especially school districts, from raising the revenue they need.

Their proposal is to raise the state’s contribution to public education by $5 billion over four years. That would be in addition to the increased funding that comes through the state’s new Evidence Based Funding formula, which calls for an added $350 million for education funding each year.

The new money would be distributed proportionately to all 852 school districts, effectively covering their future increases under the PTELL law and enabling them to hold their property taxes flat for four years.

That plan could be paid for, they argue,

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through the proposed graduated income tax, a new tax on retirement income over $100,000 and savings that could be achieved by consolidating township governments.

“It is not only good for education, for children growing up and going to school in this state,” Bruno said. “But it also happens to have the added benefit of taking the burden properly off of local property owners, and shifting, modestly, some of that additional responsibility to the state, where it actually exists everywhere else in the country but in Illinois. So I think you can make an argument — and I think you can make a winning argument — that this is where the investment needs to be going.”

In their report, Manzo and Bruno note that Illinoisans pay the seventh-highest property tax rates in the country and that roughly two-thirds of all property taxes go to school districts. Average Illinois homeowners pay 7.4 percent of their income on property taxes, compared to just 4.95 percent in income taxes.

They also argue that property taxes are regressive because lower-income homeowners have much more of their total personal wealth invested in their home than upper-income people. According to the report, a household earning $35,000 per year, for example, pays on average 10 percent of their taxable income in property taxes, compared to 7 percent for someone earning $75,000 a year, and just 1 percent for people with yearly incomes over $1 million.

Using economic modeling formulas, Manzo and Bruno estimate the net impact of increasing the state’s investment in education and holding down school district property taxes would be to grow the Illinois economy by about $1.2 billion and adding up to 14,000 new jobs.

Consolidating townships, they suggest, would have a smaller impact, lowering property tax bills by 0.4 percent, adding $11 million to the economy and producing about 100 new jobs.

An alternative, they argue, was reflected this year in House Bill 320, which would have extended PTELL to all local governments, including home rule jurisdictions. It also would have unilaterally cut property tax levies by 10 percent below their 2018 level and then would have frozen property tax levies after that.

“Local governments would have been forced to slash spending on essential services by $3 billion annually,” Manzo and Bruno wrote in their report. “Although property tax relief would produce an economic stimulus, it would be completely offset by the cuts to long-term public investments – shrinking Illinois’ economy by $2 billion and 27,000 jobs.”

Manzo and Bruno said they do not yet know what will be in the task force’s final report, which is due to be released by Dec. 31.

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Security Monitor

Options available: January - June $100.00 July - December $100.00 January - December 2020 - $200.00

The Bellwood Public Library is looking for a Security Monitor who will build relationships with our patrons while keeping the library a friendly and secure place. Must have a genuine commitment to providing quality customer service.

Village of Maywood 40 Madison Street, Maywood, IL 60153 Phone: (708)450-6321 Hours are afternoons, Website: www.maywood-il.org

evenings and Saturdays, 8-12 hours per week. Pay starts at $12.38 per hour, depending on qualifications.

VILLAGE OF MAYWOOD OVERNIGHT PARKING APPLICATION Apply by December 27 at Bellwood Library, Visit Maywood-il.org for more info

ProhibitedNo Overnight Parking phone calls, please.

600 Bohland Avenue.

PART I - APPLICANT INFORMATION Applicant Name _____________________________________________

*Please note that the following main streets can no longer be approved for overnight parking.  1st Ave (Entire Village)  5th Ave (Entire Village)

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Village Free Press | December 25, 2019

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thevillagefreepress.org

Village Free Press | December 25, 2019

Public Notice: Your Right to Know REAL ESTATE FOR SALE

REAL ESTATE FOR SALE

REAL ESTATE FOR SALE

REAL ESTATE FOR SALE

REAL ESTATE FOR SALE

REAL ESTATE FOR SALE

REAL ESTATE FOR SALE

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF COOK COUNTY, ILLINOIS COUNTY DEPARTMENT - CHANCERY DIVISION DEUTSCHE BANK NATIONAL TRUST COMPANY, AS TRUSTEE, IN TRUST FOR THE REGISTERED CERTIFICATE HOLDERS OF FIRST FRANKLIN MORTGAGE LOAN TRUST 2006-FF5, MORTGAGE PASS-THROUGH CERTIFICATES, SERIES 2006-FF5 Plaintiff, vs.

STANFORD SULLIVAN; BARBARA SULLIVAN Defendants, 19 CH 8657 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, January 14, 2020 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. 15-15-229-009-0000.

Commonly known as 1631 S. 15TH 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 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. 19017340 F2 INTERCOUNTY JUDICIAL SALES CORPORATION Selling Officer, (312) 444-1122 I3139166

Sale terms: 25% down of the highest bid by certified funds at the close of the sale payable to The Judicial Sales Corporation. No third party checks will be accepted. The balance, including the Judicial Sale fee for the Abandoned Residential Property Municipality Relief Fund, which is calculated on residential real estate at the rate of $1 for each $1,000 or fraction thereof of the amount paid by the purchaser not to exceed $300, in certified funds/ or wire transfer, is due within twenty-four (24) hours. No fee shall be paid by the mortgagee acquiring the residential real estate pursuant to its credit bid at the sale or by any mortgagee, judgment creditor, or other lienor acquiring the residential real estate whose rights in and to the residential real estate arose prior to the sale. The subject property is subject to general real estate taxes, special assessments, or special taxes levied against said real estate and is offered for sale without any representation as to quality or quantity of title and without recourse to Plaintiff and in “AS IS” condition.

The sale is further subject to confirmation by the court.

Upon payment in full of the amount bid, the purchaser will receive a Certificate of Sale that will entitle the purchaser to a deed to the real estate after confirmation of the sale.

The property will NOT be open for inspection and plaintiff makes no representation as to the condition of the property. Prospective bidders are admonished to check the court file to verify all information.

If this property is a condominium unit, the purchaser of the unit at the foreclosure sale, other than a mortgagee, shall pay the assessments and the legal fees required

by The Condominium Property Act, 765 ILCS 605/9(g)(1) and (g)(4). If this property is a condominium unit which is part of a common interest community, the purchaser of the unit at the foreclosure sale other than a mortgagee shall pay the assessments required by The Condominium Property Act, 765 ILCS 605/18.5(g-1).

IF YOU ARE THE MORTGAGOR (HOMEOWNER), YOU HAVE THE RIGHT TO REMAIN IN POSSESSION FOR 30 DAYS AFTER ENTRY OF AN ORDER OF POSSESSION, IN ACCORDANCE WITH SECTION 15-1701(C) OF THE ILLINOIS MORTGAGE FORECLOSURE LAW. You will need a photo identification issued by a government agency (driver’s license, passport, etc.) in order to gain entry into our building and the foreclosure sale room in Cook County and the same identification for sales held at other county venues where The Judicial Sales Corporation conducts foreclosure sales.

For information, Alexander Potestivo, POTESTIVO & ASSOCIATES, P.C. Plaintiff’s Attorneys, 223 WEST JACKSON BLVD, STE 610, Chicago, IL, 60606 (312) 263-0003.

Please refer to file number 105814.

THE JUDICIAL SALES CORPORATION One South Wacker Drive, 24th Floor, Chicago, IL 60606-4650 (312) 236-SALE You can also visit The Judicial Sales Corporation at www.tjsc.com for a 7 day status report of pending sales.

POTESTIVO & ASSOCIATES, P.C. 223 WEST JACKSON BLVD, STE 610 Chicago IL, 60606 312-263-0003 E-Mail:

ilpleadings@potestivolaw.com Attorney File No. 105814 Attorney Code. 43932 Case Number: 17 CH 12642 TJSC#: 39-7654 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 # 17 CH 12642 I3139278

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, JOHNSON, BLUMBERG & ASSOCIATES, LLC Plaintiff’s Attorneys, 230 W. Monroe Street, Suite #1125, Chicago, IL, 60606 (312) 541-9710. Please refer to file number 19-6866.

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.

JOHNSON, BLUMBERG & ASSOCIATES, LLC 230 W. Monroe Street, Suite #1125 Chicago IL, 60606 312-541-9710 E-Mail: ilpleadings@johnsonblumberg.com Attorney File No. 19-6866 Attorney Code. 40342 Case Number: 2019 CH 02347 TJSC#: 39-7646 NOTE: Pursuant to the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act, you are advised that Plaintiff’s attorney is deemed to be a debt collector attempting to collect a debt and any information obtained will be used for that purpose.

Case # 2019 CH 02347 I3139237

0000 (VOL. 158) The real estate is improved with a single family residence.

The judgment amount was $195,647.72.

Sale terms: 25% down of the highest bid by certified funds at the close of the sale payable to The Judicial Sales Corporation. No third party checks will be accepted. The balance, including the Judicial Sale fee for the Abandoned Residential Property Municipality Relief Fund, which is calculated on residential real estate at the rate of $1 for each $1,000 or fraction thereof of the amount paid by the purchaser not to exceed $300, in certified funds/ or wire transfer, is due within twenty-four (24) hours. No fee shall be paid by the mortgagee acquiring the residential real estate pursuant to its credit bid at the sale or by any mortgagee, judgment creditor, or other lienor acquiring the residential real estate whose rights in and to the residential real estate arose prior to the sale. The subject property is subject to general real estate taxes, special assessments, or special taxes levied against said real estate and is offered for sale without any representation as to quality or quantity of title and without recourse to Plaintiff and in “AS IS” condition.

The sale is further subject to confirmation by the court.

Upon payment in full of the amount bid, the purchaser will receive a Certificate of Sale that will entitle the purchaser to a deed to the real estate after confirmation of the sale.

Where a sale of real estate is made to satisfy a lien prior to that of the United States, the United States shall have one year from the date of sale within which to redeem, except that with respect to a lien arising under the internal revenue laws the period shall be 120 days or the period allowable for redemption under State law, whichever is longer, and in any case in which, under the provisions of section 505 of the Housing Act of 1950, as amended (12 U.S.C. 1701k), and subsection (d) of section 3720 of title 38 of the United States Code, the right to redeem does not arise, there shall be no right of redemption.

The property will NOT be open for inspection and plaintiff makes no representation as to the condition of the property. Prospective bidders are admonished to check the court file to verify all information.

If this property is a condominium unit, the purchaser of the unit at the foreclosure sale, other than a mortgagee, shall pay the assessments and the legal fees required

by The Condominium Property Act, 765 ILCS 605/9(g)(1) and (g)(4). If this property is a condominium unit which is part of a common interest community, the purchaser of the unit at the foreclosure sale other than a mortgagee shall pay the assessments required by The Condominium Property Act, 765 ILCS 605/18.5(g-1).

IF YOU ARE THE MORTGAGOR (HOMEOWNER), YOU HAVE THE RIGHT TO REMAIN IN POSSESSION FOR 30 DAYS AFTER ENTRY OF AN ORDER OF POSSESSION, IN ACCORDANCE WITH SECTION 15-1701(C) OF THE ILLINOIS MORTGAGE FORECLOSURE LAW You will need a photo identification issued by a government agency (driver’s license, passport, etc.) in order to gain entry into our building and the foreclosure sale room in Cook County and the same identification for sales held at other county venues where The Judicial Sales Corporation conducts foreclosure

sales.

For information, JOHNSON, BLUMBERG & ASSOCIATES, LLC Plaintiff’s Attorneys, 230 W. Monroe Street, Suite #1125, Chicago, IL, 60606 (312) 541-9710. Please refer to file number 19-7012.

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.

JOHNSON, BLUMBERG & ASSOCIATES, LLC 230 W. Monroe Street, Suite #1125 Chicago IL, 60606 312-541-9710 E-Mail: ilpleadings@johnsonblumberg.com Attorney File No. 19-7012 Attorney Code. 40342 Case Number: 2019 CH 03175 TJSC#: 39-6960 NOTE: Pursuant to the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act, you are advised that Plaintiff’s attorney is deemed to be a debt collector attempting to collect a debt and any information obtained will be used for that purpose.

Case # 2019 CH 03175 I3139491

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, HEAVNER, BEYERS & MIHLAR, LLC Plaintiff’s Attorneys, 111 East Main Street, DECATUR, IL, 62523 (217) 422-1719.

Please refer to file number 331007.

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 111 East Main Street DECATUR IL, 62523 217-422-1719 Fax #: 217-422-1754 E-Mail: CookPleadings@hsbattys. com Attorney File No. 331007 Attorney Code. 40387 Case Number: 18 CH 11023 TJSC#: 39-7015 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 11023 I3137006

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF COOK COUNTY, ILLINOIS COUNTY DEPARTMENT - CHANCERY DIVISION U.S. BANK NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, AS TRUSTEE FOR STRUCTURED ASSET SECURITIES CORPORATION MORTGAGE LOAN TRUST 2007-BNC1 MORTGAGE PASS-THROUGH CERTIFICATES, SERIES 2007-BNC1 Plaintiff, -v.CHERYL TURNER A/K/A CHERYL D. TURNER Defendants 17 CH 12642 218 49TH AVENUE BELLWOOD, IL 60104 NOTICE OF SALE PUBLIC NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale entered in the above cause on April 19, 2018, an agent for The Judicial Sales Corporation, will at 10:30 AM on January 6, 2020, at The Judicial Sales Corporation, One South Wacker Drive, CHICAGO, IL, 60606, sell at a public sale to the highest bidder, as set forth below, the following described real estate: Commonly known as 218 49TH AVENUE, BELLWOOD, IL 60104 Property Index No. 15-08-110-0260000 The real estate is improved with a single family residence.

The judgment amount was $298,039.71.

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF COOK COUNTY, ILLINOIS COUNTY DEPARTMENT - CHANCERY DIVISION NEWREZ LLC, F/K/A NEW PENN FINANCIAL, LLC D/B/A SHELLPOINT MORTGAGE SERVICING Plaintiff, -v.SUSAN L. HANSEN, WAYNE D. GRILLS, TCF NATIONAL BANK, VILLAGE OF MELROSE PARK, UNKNOWN OWNERS AND NON-RECORD CLAIMANTS Defendants 2019 CH 02347 1532 N. 19TH AVENUE 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 November 25, 2019, an agent for The Judicial Sales Corporation, will at 10:30 AM on January 6, 2020, at The Judicial Sales Corporation, One South Wacker Drive, CHICAGO, IL, 60606, sell at a public sale to the highest bidder, as set forth below, the following described real estate: Commonly known as 1532 N. 19TH AVENUE, MELROSE PARK, IL 60160 Property Index No. 15-03-129-0220000 The real estate is improved with a multi-family residence.

The judgment amount was $133,714.91.

Sale terms: 25% down of the highest bid by certified funds at the close of the sale payable to The Judicial Sales Corporation. No third party checks will be accepted. The balance, including the Judicial Sale fee for the Abandoned Residential Property Municipality Relief Fund, which is calculated on residential real estate at the rate of $1 for each $1,000 or fraction thereof of the amount paid by the purchaser not to exceed $300, in certified funds/ or wire transfer, is due within twenty-four (24) hours. No fee shall be paid by the mortgagee acquiring the residential real estate pursuant to its credit bid at the sale or by any mortgagee, judgment creditor, or other lienor acquiring the residential real estate whose rights in and to the residential real estate arose prior to the sale. The subject property is subject to general real estate taxes, special assessments, or special taxes levied against said real estate and is offered for sale without any representation as to quality or quantity of title and without recourse to Plaintiff and in “AS IS” condition.

The sale is further subject to confirmation by the court.

Upon payment in full of the amount bid, the purchaser will receive a Certificate of Sale that will entitle the purchaser to a deed to the real estate after confirmation of the sale.

The property will NOT be open for inspection and plaintiff makes no representation as to the condition of the property. Prospective bidders are admonished to check the court file to verify all information.

If this property is a condominium

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF COOK COUNTY, ILLINOIS COUNTY DEPARTMENT - CHANCERY DIVISION QUICKEN LOANS INC Plaintiff, -v.WAYNE WASHINGTON, DESRI H. WASHINGTON, CITY OF CHICAGO, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA Defendants 2019 CH 03175 1444 MORRIS AVENUE BERKELEY, IL 60163 NOTICE OF SALE PUBLIC NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale entered in the above cause on October 17, 2019, an agent for The Judicial Sales Corporation, will at 10:30 AM on January 22, 2020, at The Judicial Sales Corporation, One South Wacker Drive, CHICAGO, IL, 60606, sell at a public sale to the highest bidder, as set forth below, the following described real estate: Commonly known as 1444 MORRIS AVENUE, BERKELEY, IL 60163 Property Index No. 15-08-105-036-

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF COOK COUNTY, ILLINOIS COUNTY DEPARTMENT - CHANCERY DIVISION DITECH FINANCIAL LLC Plaintiff, -v.ALMA D. MARTINEZ, ADRIAN DOMINGUEZ Defendants 18 CH 11023 1925 N. 19TH AVE. 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 October 30, 2019, an agent for The Judicial Sales Corporation, will at 10:30 AM on January 31, 2020, at The Judicial Sales Corporation, One South Wacker Drive, CHICAGO, IL, 60606, sell at a public sale to the highest bidder, as set forth below, the following described real estate: Commonly known as 1925 N. 19TH AVE., MELROSE PARK, IL 60160 Property Index No. 12-34-306-0110000 The real estate is improved with a single family residence.

The judgment amount was $271,934.49.

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

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF COOK COUNTY, ILLINOIS COUNTY DEPARTMENT - CHANCERY DIVISION BANK OF AMERICA, NA; Plaintiff, vs.

PAMELA ELLIS AKA PAMELA J. ELLIS; Defendants, 19 CH 7231 NOTICE OF SALE PUBLIC NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale entered in the above entitled cause Intercoun-

thevillagefreepress.org

Village Free Press | December 25, 2019

11

REAL ESTATE FOR SALE

REAL ESTATE FOR SALE

REAL ESTATE FOR SALE

REAL ESTATE FOR SALE

REAL ESTATE FOR SALE

REAL ESTATE FOR SALE

REAL ESTATE FOR SALE

ty Judicial Sales Corporation will on Friday, January 24, 2020 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. 15-08-229-048-0000.

Commonly known as 339 48th 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. 19021829 F2 INTERCOUNTY JUDICIAL SALES CORPORATION Selling Officer, (312) 444-1122 I3140099

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, The sales clerk, SHAPIRO KREISMAN & ASSOCIATES, LLC 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 15-075849.

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.

SHAPIRO KREISMAN & ASSOCIATES, LLC 2121 WAUKEGAN RD., SUITE 301 Bannockburn IL, 60015 847-291-1717 E-Mail: ILNotices@logs.com Attorney File No. 15-075849 Attorney Code. 42168 Case Number: 18 CH 15235 TJSC#: 39-6950 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 15235 I3139743

which is calculated on residential real estate at the rate of $1 for each $1,000 or fraction thereof of the amount paid by the purchaser not to exceed $300, in certified funds/ or wire transfer, is due within twenty-four (24) hours. No fee shall be paid by the mortgagee acquiring the residential real estate pursuant to its credit bid at the sale or by any mortgagee, judgment creditor, or other lienor acquiring the residential real estate whose rights in and to the residential real estate arose prior to the sale. The subject property is subject to general real estate taxes, special assessments, or special taxes levied against said real estate and is offered for sale without any representation as to quality or quantity of title and without recourse to Plaintiff and in “AS IS” condition.

The sale is further subject to confirmation by the court.

Upon payment in full of the amount bid, the purchaser will receive a Certificate of Sale that will entitle the purchaser to a deed to the real estate after confirmation of the sale.

Where a sale of real estate is made to satisfy a lien prior to that of the United States, the United States shall have one year from the date of sale within which to redeem, except that with respect to a lien arising under the internal revenue laws the period shall be 120 days or the period allowable for redemption under State law, whichever is longer, and in any case in which, under the provisions of section 505 of the Housing Act of 1950, as amended (12 U.S.C. 1701k), and subsection (d) of section 3720 of title 38 of the United States Code, the right to redeem does not arise, there shall be no right of redemption.

The property will NOT be open for inspection and plaintiff makes no representation as to the condition of the property. Prospective bidders are admonished to check the court file to verify all information.

If this property is a condominium unit, the purchaser of the unit at the foreclosure sale, other than a mortgagee, shall pay the assessments and the legal fees required

by The Condominium Property Act, 765 ILCS 605/9(g)(1) and (g)(4). If this property is a condominium unit which is part of a common interest community, the purchaser of the unit at the foreclosure sale other than a mortgagee shall pay the assessments required by The Condominium Property Act, 765 ILCS 605/18.5(g-1).

IF YOU ARE THE MORTGAGOR (HOMEOWNER), YOU HAVE THE RIGHT TO REMAIN IN POSSESSION FOR 30 DAYS AFTER ENTRY OF AN ORDER OF POSSESSION, IN ACCORDANCE WITH SECTION 15-1701(C) OF THE ILLINOIS MORTGAGE FORECLOSURE LAW. You will need a photo identification issued by a government agency (driver’s license, passport, etc.) in order to gain entry into our building and the foreclosure sale room in Cook County and the same identification for sales held at other county venues where The Judicial Sales Corporation conducts foreclosure sales.

For information, The sales clerk, SHAPIRO KREISMAN & ASSOCIATES, LLC 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 16-080707.

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.

SHAPIRO KREISMAN & ASSOCIATES, LLC 2121 WAUKEGAN RD., SUITE 301 Bannockburn IL, 60015 847-291-1717 E-Mail: ILNotices@logs.com Attorney File No. 16-080707 Attorney Code. 42168 Case Number: 16 CH 13155 TJSC#: 39-6951 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 # 16 CH 13155 I3139673

TRY 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, The sales clerk, SHAPIRO KREISMAN & ASSOCIATES, LLC 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 18-088222.

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.

SHAPIRO KREISMAN & ASSOCIATES, LLC 2121 WAUKEGAN RD., SUITE 301 Bannockburn IL, 60015 847-291-1717 E-Mail: ILNotices@logs.com Attorney File No. 18-088222 Attorney Code. 42168 Case Number: 18 CH 14907 TJSC#: 39-6109 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 14907 I3140650

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 Friday, January 31, 2020 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 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. 19016721 F2 INTERCOUNTY JUDICIAL SALES CORPORATION Selling Officer, (312) 444-1122 I3140836

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, HEAVNER, BEYERS & MIHLAR, LLC Plaintiff’s Attorneys, 111 East Main Street, DECATUR, IL, 62523 (217) 4221719. Please refer to file number 523796333.

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 111 East Main Street DECATUR IL, 62523 217-422-1719 Fax #: 217-422-1754 E-Mail: CookPleadings@hsbattys. com Attorney File No. 523796333 Attorney Code. 40387 Case Number: 15 CH 04846 TJSC#: 39-7124 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 # 15 CH 04846 I3138180

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF COOK COUNTY, ILLINOIS COUNTY DEPARTMENT - CHANCERY DIVISION WELLS FARGO BANK, N.A., AS TRUSTEE, FOR CARRINGTON MORTGAGE LOAN TRUST, SERIES 2006-NC2 ASSET-BACKED PASS-THROUGH CERTIFICATES Plaintiff, -v.HINTON DILLARD A/K/A HINTON T. DILLARD, MARTHA JENKINS A/K/A MARTHA LOUISE JENKINS A/K/A MARTHA L. JENKINS, NEW CENTURY MORTGAGE CORPORATION Defendants 18 CH 15235 2124 SOUTH 10TH 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 October 25, 2019, an agent for The Judicial Sales Corporation, will at 10:30 AM on January 28, 2020, at The Judicial Sales Corporation, One South Wacker Drive, CHICAGO, IL, 60606, sell at a public sale to the highest bidder, as set forth below, the following described real estate: Commonly known as 2124 SOUTH 10TH AVENUE, MAYWOOD, IL 60153 Property Index No. 15-15-430-0240000 The real estate is improved with a single family residence.

The judgment amount was $223,656.23.

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

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF COOK COUNTY, ILLINOIS COUNTY DEPARTMENT - CHANCERY DIVISION NATIONSTAR MORTGAGE LLC Plaintiff, -v.JAMES L. LEE, DOROTHY A. LEE, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA, CITY OF CHICAGO, AN ILLINOIS MUNICIPAL CORPORATION Defendants 16 CH 13155 698 MORRIS AVENUE HILLSIDE, IL 60162 NOTICE OF SALE PUBLIC NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale entered in the above cause on October 25, 2019, an agent for The Judicial Sales Corporation, will at 10:30 AM on January 28, 2020, at The Judicial Sales Corporation, One South Wacker Drive, CHICAGO, IL, 60606, sell at a public sale to the highest bidder, as set forth below, the following described real estate: Commonly known as 698 MORRIS AVENUE, HILLSIDE, IL 60162 Property Index No. 15-08-309-0140000 The real estate is improved with a single family residence.

The judgment amount was $218,882.23.

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,

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF COOK COUNTY, ILLINOIS COUNTY DEPARTMENT - CHANCERY DIVISION MIDFIRST BANK Plaintiff, -v.CONSTANCE E. HILL A/K/A CONSTANCE HILL, ANNIE HILL, AS TEMPORARY GUARDIAN OF THE ESTATE AND PERSON OF CONSTANCE HILL, A DISABLED PERSON, JON DEMETRAL HILL, AS TEMPORARY GUARDIAN OF THE ESTATE AND PERSON OF CONSTANCE HILL, A DISABLED PERSON, UNKNOWN HEIRS AND/ OR LEGATEES OF JON D. HILL A/K/A JON HILL, DECEASED, JON DEMETRAL HILL, JAMAL HILL, JACK LYDON, AS SPECIAL REPRESENTATIVE FOR JON D. HILL A/K/A JON HILL, DECEASED, UNKNOWN OWNERS AND NON-RECORD CLAIMANTS, UNKNOWN OCCUPANTS Defendants 18 CH 14907 349 MORRIS AVENUE BELLWOOD, IL 60104 NOTICE OF SALE PUBLIC NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale entered in the above cause on September 20, 2019, an agent for The Judicial Sales Corporation, will at 10:30 AM on January 31, 2020, at The Judicial Sales Corporation, One South Wacker Drive, CHICAGO, IL, 60606, sell at a public sale to the highest bidder, as set forth below, the following described real estate: Commonly known as 349 MORRIS AVENUE, BELLWOOD, IL 60104 Property Index No. 15-09-302-0110000 The real estate is improved with a single family residence.

The judgment amount was $174,082.08.

Sale terms: 25% down of the highest bid by certified funds at the close of the sale payable to The Judicial Sales Corporation. No third party checks will be accepted. The balance, including the Judicial Sale fee for the Abandoned Residential Property Municipality Relief Fund, which is calculated on residential real estate at the rate of $1 for each $1,000 or fraction thereof of the amount paid by the purchaser not to exceed $300, in certified funds/ or wire transfer, is due within twenty-four (24) hours. No fee shall be paid by the mortgagee acquiring the residential real estate pursuant to its credit bid at the sale or by any mortgagee, judgment creditor, or other lienor acquiring the residential real estate whose rights in and to the residential real estate arose prior to the sale. The subject property is subject to general real estate taxes, special assessments, or special taxes levied against said real estate and is offered for sale without any representation as to quality or quantity of title and without recourse to Plaintiff and in “AS IS” condition.

The sale is further subject to confirmation by the court.

Upon payment in full of the amount bid, the purchaser will receive a Certificate of Sale that will entitle the purchaser to a deed to the real estate after confirmation of the sale.

The property will NOT be open for inspection and plaintiff makes no representation as to the condition of the property. Prospective bidders are admonished to check the court file to verify all information.

If this property is a condominium unit, the purchaser of the unit at the foreclosure sale, other than a mortgagee, shall pay the assessments and the legal fees required

by The Condominium Property Act, 765 ILCS 605/9(g)(1) and (g)(4). If this property is a condominium unit which is part of a common interest community, the purchaser of the unit at the foreclosure sale other than a mortgagee shall pay the assessments required by The Condominium Property Act, 765 ILCS 605/18.5(g-1).

IF YOU ARE THE MORTGAGOR (HOMEOWNER), YOU HAVE THE RIGHT TO REMAIN IN POSSESSION FOR 30 DAYS AFTER EN-

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF COOK COUNTY, ILLINOIS COUNTY DEPARTMENT - CHANCERY DIVISION CITIMORTGAGE, INC., Plaintiff, vs.

MIGDALIA VAZQUEZ, ILLINOIS HOUSING DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY, Defendants, 17 CH 16034 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, January 27, 2020 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. 15-03-109-030 AND 15-03109-031.

Commonly known as 1739 N. 24TH AVE., MELROSE PARK, IL 60160.

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

For information call Mr. Ira T. Nevel at Plaintiff’s Attorney, Law Offices of Ira T. Nevel, 175 North Franklin Street, Chicago, Illinois 60606. (312) 357-1125. 17-03904 INTERCOUNTY JUDICIAL SALES CORPORATION Selling Officer, (312) 444-1122 I3140493 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,

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF COOK COUNTY, ILLINOIS COUNTY DEPARTMENT - CHANCERY DIVISION KONDAUR CAPITAL CORPORATION, NOT IN ITS INDIVIDUAL CAPACITY BUT SOLELY IN ITS CAPACITY AS SEPARATE TRUSTEE OF MATAWIN VENTURES TRUST SERIES 2019-2 Plaintiff, -v.DIANE UNDERWOOD Defendants 15 CH 04846 1311 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 November 5, 2019, an agent for The Judicial Sales Corporation, will at 10:30 AM on February 6, 2020, at The Judicial Sales Corporation, One South Wacker Drive, CHICAGO, IL, 60606, sell at a public sale to the highest bidder, as set forth below, the following described real estate: Commonly known as 1311 S. 8TH AVE, MAYWOOD, IL 60153 Property Index No. 15-14-125-0050000; 15-14-125-006-0000 The real estate is improved with a single family residence.

The judgment amount was $233,370.21.

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

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

The Illinois Human Rights Act prohibits discrimination in the sale, rental or advertising of real estate based on factors in addition to those protected under federal law.

This newspaper will not knowingly accept any advertising for real estate which is in violation of the law. All persons are hereby informed that all dwellings advertised are available on an equal opportunity basis.

Restrictions or prohibitions of pets do not apply to service animals.

To complain of discrimination, call HUD toll free at: 1-800-669-9777.

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Village Free Press | December 25, 2019

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