AustinWeeklyNews_091725 by Wednesday Journal

Catalyst increases inschool therapy options for students

Catalyst Circle Rock charter school par tners with Thrive Counseling Center to help students, educators and administration to talk about mental health

By JESSICA MORDACQ Staff Reporter

As the school year kicks of f, students at Catalyst Circle Rock charter school will have a second year of in-school therapy available to them.

Oak Park-based Thrive Counseling Center offers therapy, case management, psychiatrist and crisis services to clients. After providing on-site therapy services to about 15 Catalyst students once a week at the start of 2025, Thrive is adding another therapist and day of in-school services this school year to double the number of students served. The goal is to provide accessible mental health services for young people who may face barriers to care.

See CATALYST SCHOOL on pa ge 8

West Side NAACP president: Trump administration civil rights

Decades of activism

Karl Brinson

By DEBORAH BAYLISS Contributing

The civil rights battles he witnessed in the late 1960s ha today’s challenges from the ministration, says the president of the Chicago Westside Branch

Karl Brinson mo Austin Community as a family when racial tensions as more Blacks mo been an historically he says, may ha subsequent years of activism.

“In my early volved with politics and was a political activist and then a community activist and then got involved with civil rights,” Brinson said. “I’ been a community activist.”

The national merous significant victories in the fight for civil rights, including the Supreme Court case Brown vs. the Board of Education that declared se tion in public school unconstitutional.

See KARL BRINSON on pa ge 11

CIVIL RIGHTS BAT TLE RENEWED: Karl Br inson, head of West Side NAACP, has been in the ght for civil rights since he was a teen.

Overlooking Columbus Park, Oak Park builds rst new building on Austin in 60 years

‘The

Pierce’ focuses on climate, income mix and aesthetics

By LACEY SIKORA Real Estate Reporter

For the first time in more than 60 years, there is a new apar tment building on the Oak Park side of Austin Boulevard. Overlooking Columbus Park at Van Buren, the 44-unit building focused on sustainability and mixed income rentals with 20% of units set aside as af fordable housing.

The first residents are moving this week into “The Pierce,” Oak Park Residence Corporation’s newly-constructed, environmentally-friendly building that its staf f and board first envisioned more than five years ago. The net-zero building puts a new face on multi-family housing in Oak Park and the Midwest, said David Pope, the president of ResCor p.

The building is the first new multi-family construction along Oak Pa rk’s side of Austin Blvd. in more than 60 years, said Pope. And its design takes advantage of its vistas overlooking Columbus Park and across the city to the Loop.

While within the scope of the village’s master development plan for an area close to mass transit, ResCorp’s plan drew notable opposition from its immediate residential neighbors when it was unveiled in 2021. The concerns were largely over its height – at six stories

ResCor p. is a nonprofit community development organization whose mission is to promote Oak Park as a diverse and economically balanced community by providing high-quality multifamily rental housing at reasonable rates for households of all income levels. T he entity owns 32 buildings in Oak Park and manages almost 700 units

Pope said the two-story motel-style apar tment building that ResCorp long owned at 7 Van Buren St. on Austin Boulevard, had outlived its usefulness.

“The property was over 70 years old and would have required significant reinvestment to upkeep. It wasn’t architecturally significant, definitely not something somebody would lay in front of a bulldozer for,” he laughs.

Wayne Pierce, chair of ResCor p.’s board, says the idea for building something new has been percolating for more than 6 years, but it took the right timing to make it happen. He adds that he was very humbled when the board decided to name the building after him in reco gnition of his long history with the organization, which has operated in Oak Park for 54 years.

“We’ve been buying properties here, mostly on the east side of the village, for a very long time,” said Pierce, “but we’ve never done anything like this. We used our own money to do this, and it was significant investment on our part -- well over $20 million.”

Pope and the ResCorp board wanted to create more housing in an area of the village that hasn’t received a lot of attention. While new high rise apar tment buildings rise over Lake Street, Pope notes there has been very little new investment in the east side of town.

“There hasn’t been a new residential building built on our side of Austin Boulevard in ov er 60 years,” he said.

Location was just one of six motivating principles for ResCor p. They were also guided by sustainability, accessibility, height, af fordability and aesthetics.

Pope said he heard a lot about why all the new construction in downtown Oak Park was 18 stories high. He wanted to align the building with the neighborhood, and it tops out at six stories. Given the mission of ResCor p, he was committed to including affordable units, as 20% of all ResCorp build-

ings are occupied by families making 50% of the area median income or less.

Beyond income diversity, OPRC was committed to creating a building that was accessible for seniors, people wanting to age in place and people with disabilities. Every unit and the common spaces at the Pierce are accessible, with an elevator in the building.

Pope says he also got an earful about new construction not being attractive and said addressing the aesthetics piece was also important to OPRC.

In kee ping with the village’s climate action plan, it was important to make the building as sustainable as possible, and on that front ResCorp took its charge very seriously.

They partnered with local Passive House expert and architect Tom Basset-Dilley as an energy modeler on the project and worked with architectural firm Ware Malcomb, engineering firm dbHMS and Synergy Construction Group. In addition, Pope said a $2 million grant from the Illinois Clean Energy Community Foundation was instrumental in their ability to construct a sustainable building.

And the building is certainly sustainable Pope, himself a for mer Oak Park village president, said it is the most significant net-zero, multi-family building constructed in the Chicago metro area in the past five years. “It hasn’t been done on this scale in the Midwest,” he said.

The Passive House design of the building, which allows it to be a net-zero building, also makes for incredibly efficient units for their renters Pope said. “Their

costs to heat and cool will be a lot lower. The high efficiency appliances can be operated at a lower cost. And, their units will be very comfortable.”

Pope acknowledges that in 2021 there was neighborhood opposition to the project mainly over its height. But he hopes the final product will allay those concerns. As the building opens for occupancy this week, he said, “We’re bringing some smaller groups through on tours, and the first group we’re bringing through will be the neighbors. We are deeply committed to being a good neighbor.”

The Pierce consists of 44 units in total: 35 one-bedroom units, 5 studios, and 4 twobedroom units. Of the 80% of the units that are market rate, Pope says they are available on the open market and can be viewed on the ResCorp website: https:// oakparkrc.com/

There is a protocol for renting the affordable units, and Pope says the waiting list began as soon as he held his first community meeting about the building almost five years ago. ResCorp is using that list and assessing the eligibility of interested parties. With the first tenants moving in this week and requests from visitors around the country to learn about the building’s net zero achievements, Pope hopes the Pierce will be a game-changer in the housing world. “Our intent is that our building will be a model for the rest of the country.”

Pierce adds, “We hope to do other developments in the village, but for right now, we’re just excited to see people move into this one. I know it’ll add so much to the village for a number of years to come.”

PROVIDED

7 Van Buren St., Oak Park

Forty Acres Fresh Market opens in Austin Sept. 27

Owner of Chicago Avenue store says it needs liquor license to succeed

By MICHAEL LIPTROT Contributing Reporter

After over five years of planning, fundraising and construction, Forty Acre Fresh Market is set to open this month in Austin, bringing fresh food to a neighbo hood with few grocery options.

But to be successful and fill a projected revenue gap, the store needs to sell alcohol, management said. Despite an active moratorium on liquor licenses in the area, the local alderman is supporting the ef fort

Forty Acres Fresh Market, a Blackwoman-owned store, is set to host its grand opening Sept. 27 at 5713 W. Chicago Ave. An extension of owner Elizabeth “Liz” Abunaw’s grocery delivery service, the store hosted a soft opening this month.

Forty Acres is intended to bring a fullservice grocery store to Austin, where parts of the neighborhood are considered food deserts. The closure of local stores has forced neighbors to travel long distances for groceries.

The store’s sales are currently performing under projections, Abunaw said at a recent community meeting. The store is projected to need $85,000 in weekly sales, or roughly 3,000 transactions at $28 each, Abunaw said. Selling alcohol could account for 8 percent of the store’s sales, enough for the venture to meet its revenue goals, she said.

“I believe that this a community filled with adults who can make decisions about their own consumption, and that I don’t need to prevent people from buying something that they were going to buy anyways,” Abunaw said. “This is not a liquor store. This is not a store that is going to be racks on racks of alcohol. It is a small percentage of our overall square footage, but a meaningful percentage of our revenue.”

Alcohol products will take up half an aisle in the store, and about 80 percent of the store’s alcohol inventory will be in

locked cabinets, Abunaw said. Single-serve beverages, such as 40-ounce beers, would not be sold.

There is a moratorium on the issuance of liquor licenses for the area along West Chicago Avenue from North Waller Avenue to North Austin Boulevard. At Tuesday’s meeting, Abunaw proposed a lifting of the ban for one year to allow Forty Acres to obtain a packaged goods license.

Ald. Chris Taliafer ro (29th) said at the meeting he will support a one-year pause to the liquor ban. During the meeting, community members had mixed responses to the proposal, with some citing religious and community safety concerns. But following a brief discussion, Taliafer ro held a vote and the decision was unanimous in support of lifting the moratorium

“I support it, I really do,” Taliafer ro said. “I really want Forty Acres Fresh Market to thrive.”

Taliafer ro said he plans to introduce an ordinance to lift the moratorium at the Sept. 25 City Council meeting, expecting the motion to be forwarded to the Committee on License and Consumer Protection.

Abunaw established Forty Acres in 2017 and did her first pop-up in January 2018. She previously told Block Club the name is a reference to the unfulfilled promise to offer 40 acres and a mule as reparations to Black people after 200 years of slavery.

Forty Acres partnered with Westside Health Authority to secure the space for a permanent grocery store in 2020 with funding from the Christopher Family Foundation, the Lumpkin Family Foundation and a state minority-owned business grant.

Abunaw then received a $2.5 million grant from the Chicago Recovery Fund in 2022 to support the buildout. Construction began following a November 2023 groundbreaking.

AU STIN WEEKLY news

Interim Executive Direc tor Max Reinsdorf

Sta Repor ter Jessica Mordacq

Contributing Editor Donna Greene

Senior Audience Manager Stacy Coleman

Fellow Vanessa Lopez

Reporting Partners Block Club Chicago

Columnists Aisha Oliver

Design/Production Manager Andrew Mead

Editorial Design Manager Javier Govea

Designers Susan McKelvey, Vanessa Garza

Senior Media Strategist Lourdes Nicholls

Marketing & Adver tising Associate Emma Cullnan

Development Manager Mary Ellen Nelligan

Circulation Manager Jill Wagner

Operations Associate Susan Babin

Social Media and Digital Coordinator Maribel Barrera

Special Projects Manager Susan Walker

Senior Advisor Dan Haley

BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Chair Eric Weinheimer

Treasurer Nile Wendorf

Deb Abrahamson, Mary Cahillane, Steve Edwards, Judy Gre n, Horacio Mendez, Charles Meyerson Darnell Shields, Audra Wilson

HOW TO REACH US PO Box 6670, River Forest, IL 6035

PHONE (773) 626-6332

CIRCULATION Jill@oakpark.com

ONLINE www.AustinWeeklyNews.com

Austin

MICHAEL LIPTROT/BLOCK C LU B CHIC AGO

Forty Acres Fresh Market o cially opens in Austin on Sept. 27 at 5713 W. Chicago Ave.

Welch securing political terrain ahead of State Central Committeeman election

Harmon continues to evaluate race

By BILL DWYER Contributing Reporter

“Every battle is won before it’s ever fought,” the Chinese warrior philosopher Sun Tzu wrote some 2,400 years ago.

Or as Speaker of the Illinois House Emanuel “Chris” Welch likes to put it, “Winners do the work.”

With six weeks remaining before candidates begin filing nominating petitions, Welch has done the work and appears favorably situated to attain Sun Tzu’s ideal of victory without confrontation. He has crafted a show of support that may well avoid an actual battle for the 7th District seat on the influential Democratic State Central Committee.

On March 17, voters will cast ballots for both a Democratic State Central Committeeman and a Committeewoman in each of 17 districts throughout Illinois.

Like Welch, State Senate President Don Harmon of Oak Park has had his eye on the coveted seat being vacated by retiring Congressman Danny K. Davis. Both are veteran politicians in powerful state offices, with well-funded campaign committees and solid political power bases.

Unlike Welch, however, Harmon has not announced any endorsements for his candidacy, and that may prove to be decisive in a contest that may never become a race.

Welch hit the ground running July 31, the day Davis announced he would not run for re-election to Congress or the State Central Committee. In less than 24 hours, he had announced endorsements from 18 elected officials, including Davis. By Labor Day he had more than three dozen endorsements and now has more than 50.

It is a displ ay not merely of quantity, but of quality. Many of the endorsements are from key office holders in areas outside his and Harmon’s suburban power bases, including nearly all of Chicago’s sprawling West Side, most of downtown Chicago, and all of the southeast and southwest side areas in the 7th District.

Map from the Chicago Board of Elections showing the 21 Aldermanic wards that are fully or partially w ithin the boundaries of the 7th State Central Committee District. ose wards that have elected city and party o cials who have endorsed Welch are circled

“That was his strateg y, to not have a race,” said one veteran westside political figure, who asked not to be named.

“A lot of people talk politics, not a lot of people do politics,” said C. B. Johnson, another long time westside political activist and social welfare advocate who’s run for public office before. “You can’t get into this business not expecting the unexpected.”

Welch has dominated the narrative throughout, producing a growing drum beat of inevitability, if not invincibility, as he publicly counts up his supporters. While Danny Davis’s imprimatur was sig-

nificant, it is now backed up by an impressive roster of influential Chicago ward political figures well versed in the task of getting voters motivated and to the polls.

On Sept. 10, Welch announced four more endorsements, from Chicago alderpersons Jessie Fuentes (26th), Jeylú Gutiér re z (14th) Timmy Knudsen (43rd), and Lamont Robinson (4th).

There are 21 Chicago wards that are totally or partially within the boundaries of the Illinois 7th District, and Welch has secured the support of one or more key figures in 14, including 10 ward committeep-

ersons directly responsible for getting out the vote. (The 4th, 15th, 22nd, 26th and 43rd wards have small voter percentages within the 7th District).

After Welch’s initial endorsements in August, Harmon released a brief statement through a spokesperson that he was “planning to circulate petitions as I have in the past several elections, and I’ll evaluate the field as we approach filing (deadline).”

In a statement Monday, Harmon said, “A constituent in our community was killed by an ICE agent on Friday under questionable circumstances. There will be plenty of

CREDIT: CHIC AG O BOARD OF ELECTIONS/MODIFIED BY JAVIER GOVEA

Welch’s city endorsements

Of 21 city ward organizations; Welch has endorsements from 14 (in bold)

1st

Committeeperson Laura Yepez

2nd

Committeeperson Tim Egan;

3rd

Alderwoman/Committeeperson Pat Dowell

4th

Alderman Lamont Robinson

11th

Committeeman John Daley; Alderwoman Nicole Lee

15th

Alderman/Committeeperson Ray Lopez

16th

Alderwoman/Committeeperson Stephanie Coleman

17th

18th

20th

22nd

time for politics, and I trust Democrats will give their attention when that time comes. For now, I’m evaluating the race, and paying attention to elected officials who have voiced their preference. I’m focusing on the pressing issues before us, not spending my time asking my friends to choose between the Speaker of the House and the President of the Senate.”

T he westside politico believes Welch has established a dominating political alliance throughout most of the westside wards

“I don’ t think Harmon expected Welch to go out and box him out so early,” the westside politico said, adding, “I don’ t believe Harmon reached out to any of them for endorsements.”

“I’m not surprised he’s g etting the quality endorsements,” Johnson said of Welch. “I endorsed him. I’ve watched him grow and mature (as a politician). We all

24th

Alderwoman/Committeeperson Monique Scott

25th

Alderwoman/Committeeperson Byron Sigcho-Lopez

26th

Alderman Jesse Fuentes

27th

Alderman Walter Burnett (retired) 28th

in our State Capitol, in Washington, and within our Democratic Party.”

Political force multipliers

While endorsements alone don’t guarantee victory, used well they can play a key role. There is a proxy aspect to quality political endorsements, where elected officials or organizations vouch for another candidate. It is a political force multiplier that can extend the reach of a candidate beyond their established power base.

“You’d rather have them than not, have people on your side,” the westside politico said.

“That’s an important factor,” said Dick Simpson, for mer 44th Ward Alderman and UIC political science professor emeritus. “If they’ll put in the work, put your name on palm cards, use the endorsement in direct mail, (then) the support of any party people does make a big difference.”

and said the largely unknown nature of the party position makes it a good fit for an endorsement motivated campaign. While the office is a plum for many ambitious Illinois politicians, he said a majority of voters aren’t aware of its existence.

“Voters don’t have a high de gree of concern about who is in it, about who gets elected,” Simpson said. That can play to the advantage of someone willing to do the political shovel work in the field, where the more motivated voters turn out in an otherwise low turnout election.

“There are fewer people (voting) in primaries,” Simpson said, adding, “though in the 7th District, this will be slightly different.”

“I think they both want to have a say on the state central committee,” Simpson said of Welch and Harmon. “Or a say on who is in the chair.”

Alderwoman/State Central Committeewoman Emma Mitts

42nd

Alderman/Committeeperson Brendan Reilly

43rd

Committeeperson Lucy Moog; Alder man Timmy Knudsen

do, when you go into this business. It’s on the job lear ning.”

Welch has made no secret that he intends to maintain African American leadership in the 7th District. “He clearly made a point that this seat should be held by a Black person,” the westside politico said.

Danny Davis, Johnson said, was a man who “has always been about poor people, black, white, green or blue. He wants someone there who will serve the people.” Welch, Johnson said, is seen as the person best able to continue that le gacy, and Welch is ag gressively seconding that notion.

“Across the country, we see how communities of color are being silenced,” Welch said in an online post. “That’s why in Illinois, it’s so important that our diverse communities always have a seat at the table on our local gover nment boards,

“Being urged to vote by someone you trust and respect and have voted for can be influential,” Simpson said. “If (voters) are handed a card from the local ward organization saying vote for Welch, they’ll tend to do it.”

’

‘Going door to door

Johnson said local political organizations make a big difference in West Side political races. The widespread support Welch has attracted will provide him surrogates who will “go to the door” in large areas across the West Side and elsewhere in the 7th District.

“Politics has changed a lot,” Johnson said. “The ward bosses are gone.” But, he added, “You can’t discount the door. You have to go to (a voter’s) door. It’s a sign of respect to knock on my door. To ask for my vote. It means something to people.”

Simpson called the Democratic state central committee “a pretty obscure office,”

In the end, though, all three ag reed that, politically, the point is not to win a primary, but to avoid having a primary. As Sun Tzu also tutored, “To subdue the (opponent) without fighting is the acme of skill.”

“That’s the easiest way to win a race,’ said Simpson.

Johnson let out a chuckle when he noted his 2024 primary loss to 29th Ward incumbent Alderman Chris Taliafer ro by just 308 votes, a slim 2.8 percent margin.

“If I’d been able to keep Chris Taliafer ro of f the ballot, I’d have done it,” Johnson said.

It is looking more and more like Welch will have the final say on the central committee seat, after putting Harmon in a position where, as he “evaluates the field” with filing time approaching, he will see no one but Welch -- surrounded by an ar my of political support -- and find himself pondering yet another adage by an ancient Chinese sage

“Who wishes to fight must first count the cost.”

CATALYST

Moms seein

from pa

“It’s really helping students. tom line,” said Kimber social worker at Catalyst. “The students can get suppo have a small inter day, and then go back ter meeting with the therapist se and able to make some what I really appreciate

“Some of the changes are big enough tha you can’t miss it, and some of it took a mom to tell me how her daughter is engaging with her differently Walton.

She speaks of one student who was sent to the dean’s office nearly every day last year After meeting with the in-school Thrive therapist starting this February, Walton said she stopped seeing him in the dean’s office. Another student is vocal about not wanting to go to therapy every time Walton comes to get her from class. But she talks more than any other student at therapy and, when Walton called her mother who signed her up, she said “‘It is helping her. We are getting along better. Her attitude is better,”’ according to Walton. Both students attended Thrive’s bridge services over the summer for continuity of care.

“The goal is to reach more students and support more of the students in their needs, whether that be something that is a little bit more temporary based on an event or something that’s a little bit more long term,” said Daisy Rios, a licensed clinical professional counselor and program manager for youth services at Thrive. “One mom in particular shared with a social worker how she sees a visible difference in her child’s wellbeing and the amount of happiness that her child has and how she feels connected to the services.”

Catalyst Circle Rock is located at 5608 W. Washington Blvd. In Austin and teaches kindergarten through eighth grade students

This kind of partnership between Catalyst and Thrive has been years in the making.

According to John Meister, who retired as executive director of Thrive in 2022, Thrive thought there was a need for in-school therapy, but didn’t know how to get into a school like Catalyst or others in Austin.

“Even though we suspected there was a need, after discussions with parents and others, it became incredibly evident that

the need was there, and it was significant,” Meister said.

But Thrive had never provided therapy inside a school before.

“That was one challenge because the school has to agree, they have to provide space, but then you have to overcome the parents’ mistrust,” Meister said. He added that it took time to win that over with help from Catalyst.

“Another significant obstacle is: Can Thrive dedicate its resources?” Meister said. “How does that therapist get paid while they’re trying to build the trust and the client base at the school? You’ve got a lot of complexity over something that should be fairly straightforward.”

It was a new kind of partnership for Catalyst too. Ed Siderewicz — Catalyst’s co-founder and director of mission and external relations, who brings programs to Catalyst, whether it’s a one-time collaboration or longtime partnership — came to Walton about a potential partnership with Thrive to provide in-school behavioral health support.

Catalyst works with organizations like Association House and Community Counseling Centers of Chicago to provide inschool community services on a limited basis because of staff and budget constraints. It’s the same challenge Thrive would have dealt with too without the Caroline Meister Fund

“One of the things that my wife and I were able to do with the tragic loss of our daughter [last year] was to help Thrive with, not quite a scholarship, but with dedicated

funds to build a program just to help these students,” Meister said.

Thrive’s reach extends beyond the 30some students it will regularly meet with this year.

To address other needs students might have, Thrive has put on workshops for students and educators. Rios said Thrive is looking to expand these workshops and explore what group services would look like at Catalyst.

“I know the workshops to be really popular, and it really gives us access to a lot more scholars,” Rios said. She mentions a recent workshop on substance use prevention that Thrive put on for 75 students. An upcoming workshop with educators will center compassion fatigue and how students’ mental health impacts teachers.

“Me and Kimberly are constantly looking at where the needs are and how we can support them,” Rios said of Walton, who helped Rios launch the in-school therapy services, has given Thrive student referrals, and served as a liaison between Thrive, school administrators and parents. “Her vision of supporting youth and mental health in an educational environment has been a really great support for us.”

Walton said she hopes Catalyst can continue increasing Thrive’s in-school services.

“I do hope and pray and claim that someday we could have someone here five days a week,” Walton said.

“Our mission really is about communitycentered mental health and how we can empower individuals and families to connect, support, build resilience, and really

e Caroline Meister Fund

Catalyst students who are on Medicaid will have their in-school Thrive therapy billed to their insurance, according to Thrive’s for mer executive director John Meister. If students don’t have private insurance or Medicaid, their therapy services can be covered by the Caroline Meister Fund. The fund also sponsors the training of Catalyst’s administration and educators.

Caroline Meister, the daughter of John and Jean Meister, died in March 2024 in a hiking accident. John and Jean Meister created the Caroline Meister Fund to honor their daughter and her goals to work with vulnerable children and families

Caroline graduated from Oak Park and River Forest High School. After attending Oberlin Colle ge, Caroline became associate director of the YWCA in Lorain County, which aims to empower women, eliminate racism and promote justice and peace.

“Her favorite part of the job was going to high schools in that community, which was largely African American and low income,” Jean Meister said. “She would lead girls’ circles and create a safe place for teenage girls to find their voices. She dealt with girls who had suf fered trauma and bullying and lots of problems and were able to talk among their peers and resolve some of them.”

Caroline learned of her acceptance in a master’s de gree program in drama therapy and family therapy the week before her death.

“The population that is served at the Catalyst schools and the kind of therapy that is of fered through Thrive is just so perfect for what Caroline hoped to do with her life,” Jean said.

have some hope in their lives,” Rios said of Thrive. “Having us build this school-based program and embracing my vision of what this can look like has been a really great opportunity, not only for me as a clinician in this community, but also for our residents and for our youth. Because really, that’s what it’s about for me is being able to serve youth.”

GOOGLE MAPS

Catalyst Circle Rock at 5608 W. Washing ton Blvd.

Submit events and see full calendar at austinweeklynews.com/events

PUBLIC NOTICES PUBLIC NOTICES

NOTICE INVITATION TO BID

TOMETROPOLITAN WATER RECLAMATION DISTRICT OF GREATER CHICAGO

Sealed proposals, endorsed as above, will be submitted back to the District via an electronic upload to the Bonfire Portal only, from the date of the Invitation to Bid, up to 11:00 A.M. (Chicago time), on the bid opening date, and will be opened publicly as described in the Invitation to Bid by the Director of Procurement and Materials Management or designee at 11:00 AM on the stated bid opening date below for: CONTRACT 21-092-3P

BATTERY E ACTIVATED SLUDGE FACILITY, OWRP

Estimated Cost: Between $308,754,750.00 and $373,755,750.00

Bid Deposit: $3,737,557.00

Optional Pre-Bid Walk-Through will be held on Thursday, October 2,2025, at 1:00 P.M. Chicago Time at the O’Brien Water Reclamation Plant, 3500 Howard St., Skokie, County of Cook, State of Illinois, 60076.

Voluntary Technical Pre Bid Conference: Friday, October 3, 2025 at 10:00 am Chicago Time via ZOOM Link.

Compliance with the District’s Affirmative Action Ordinance

Revised Appendix D, Appendix V, and the Multi Project Labor Agreement are required on this Contract.

Any contract or contracts awarded under this invitation for bids are expected to be funded in part by a loan from the Illinois Environmental Protection Agency (IEPA). Neither the State of Illinois nor any of its departments, agencies, or employees is or will be a party to this invitation for bids or any resulting contract.

The procurement will be subject to regulations contained in the Procedures for Issuing Loans from the Water Pollution Control Loan Program (35 IAC Part 365), the Davis-Bacon Act (40 USC 276a through 276a-5) as defined by the United States Department of Labor, the Employment of Illinois Workers on Public Works Act (30 ILCS 570), Illinois Works Jobs Program Act (30 ILCS 559/20-1), and the federal “Build America, Buy America Act” requirements contained in the Infrastructure and Investment and Jobs Act, Pub. L. No. 117-58. This procurement is also subject to the loan recipient’s policy regarding the increased use of disadvantaged business enterprises. The loan recipient’s policy requires all bidders to undertake specified affirmative efforts at least sixteen (16) days prior to bid opening. The policy is contained in the specifications.

The requirements for bidders and contractors under this order are explained in 41 CFR 60-4.

Bid Opening: October 14, 2025

CONTRACT 25-942-11

JOB ORDER CONTRACTING SERVICES

Estimated Cost Group A:

$3,000,000.00

Bid

$25,000.00

Estimated

$6,000,000.00

Bid

$25,000.00

Estimated Cost Group C:

$3,000,000.00

Bid Deposit Group C:

$25,000.00

Total: $12,000,000.00

Total: $75,000.00

Voluntary Technical Pre Bid Conference: Friday, October 3, 2025 at 11:00 am Chicago Time via ZOOM Link.

Compliance with the District’s Affirmative Action Ordinance

Revised Appendix D, Appendix V and the Multi Project Labor Agreement arerequired on this Contract.

Bid Opening: October 14, 2025 ********************************

The above is an abbreviated version of the Notice Invitation to Bid. A full version which includes a brief description of the project and/or service can be found on the District’s website, www. mwrd.org; the path is as follows: Doing Business > Procurement and Materials Management > Contract Announcements.

Specifications, proposal forms and/or plans may be obtained from the Department of Procurement and Materials Management by downloading online from the District’s website at www.mwrd.org (Doing Business > Procurement & Materials Management > Contract Announcements). No fee is required for the Contract Documents. Any questions regarding the downloading of the Contract Document should be directed to the following email: contractdesk@mwrd.org or call 312-751-6643.

All Contracts for the Construction of Public Works are subject to the Illinois Prevailing Wage Act (820 ILCS 130/1-et.seq.), where it is stated in the Invitation to Bid Page.

The Metropolitan Water Reclamation District of Greater Chicago reserves the right to reject any or all Proposals if deemed in the public’s best interest.

Metropolitan Water Reclamation District of Greater Chicago By Darlene A. LoCascio Director of Procurement and Materials Management

Published in Austin Weely News September 17, 2025

HELP WANTED

Grant Administrator (Original)

The Metropolitan Water Reclamation District of Greater Chicago will be accepting applications for the following classification(s):

Grant Administrator (Original)

Additional information regarding salary, job description, requirements, etc. can be found on the District’s website at www.districtjobs.org or call 312-751-5100.

An Equal Opportunity Employer - M/F/D

Published in Austin Weekly News September 17, 2025

REAL ESTATE FOR SALE

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

THE BANK OF NEW YORK MELLON F/K/A THE BANK OF NEW YORK AS TRUSTEE FOR CWABS, INC. ASSETBACKED CERTIFICATES, SERIES 2003-BC2

Plaintiff,

-v.-

UNKNOWN HEIRS AND/OR LEGATEES OF VANESSA PERRY, DECEASED, ERIC PERRY A/K/A ERIC DWAYNE PERRY, ERIC D. PERRY, WILHELMEINA RENEE BROWN, JULIE FOX, AS SPECIAL REPRESENTATIVE OF VANESSA PERRY, DECEASED, UNKNOWN OWNERS AND NON-RECORD CLAIMANTS, UNKNOWN OCCUPANTS

Defendants

23 CH 1926 5060 WEST VAN BUREN STREET CHICAGO, IL 60644

NOTICE OF SALE

PUBLIC NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN

that pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale entered in the above cause on June 18, 2025, an agent for The Judicial Sales Corporation, will at 10:30 AM on October 7, 2025, at The Judicial Sales Corporation, One South Wacker, 1st Floor Suite 35R, Chicago, IL, 60606, sell at public in-person sale to the highest bidder, as set forth below, the following described real estate: Commonly known as 5060 WEST VAN BUREN STREET, CHICAGO, IL 60644

Property Index No. 16-16-214-2430000

The real estate is improved with a single family residence.

The judgment amount was $59,112.64.

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, in certified funds/or wire transfer, is due within twenty-four (24) hours. 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.

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

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

For information, contact The sales clerk, LOGS Legal Group LLP Plaintiff’s Attorneys, 2801 LAKESIDE DRIVE, SUITE 207, Bannockburn, IL, 60015 (847) 291-1717 For information call between the hours of 1pm - 3pm.. Please refer to file number 23-098263.

THE JUDICIAL SALES CORPORATION

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

You can also visit The Judicial Sales Corporation at www.tjsc.com for a 7 day status report of pending sales. LOGS Legal Group LLP 2801 LAKESIDE DRIVE, SUITE 207 Bannockburn IL, 60015 847-291-1717

E-Mail: ILNotices@logs.com

Attorney File No. 23-098263

Attorney Code. 42168

Case Number: 23 CH 1926

TJSC#: 45-1642

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 # 23 CH 1926 I3272257

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF COOK COUNTY, ILLINOIS COUNTY DEPARTMENTCHANCERY DIVISION GUILD MORTGAGE COMPANY LLC Plaintiff, -v.-

THOMAS QUINN, SPECIAL REPRESENTATIVE OF JULIUS W HARRIS, DECEASED, UNKNOWN HEIRS AND LEGATEES OF JULIUS W HARRIS, UNKNOWN OWNERS AND NON-RECORD CLAIMANTS, MARY L LANE

Defendants 24 CH 07692 563 NORTH LAWLER AVENUE CHICAGO, IL 60644

NOTICE OF SALE

PUBLIC NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale entered in the above cause on June 25, 2025, an agent for The Judicial Sales Corporation, will at 10:30 AM on October 14, 2025, at The Judicial Sales Corporation, One South Wacker, 1st Floor Suite 35R, Chicago, IL, 60606, sell at public in-person sale to the highest bidder, as set forth below, the following described real estate:

Commonly known as 563 NORTH LAWLER AVENUE, CHICAGO, IL 60644

Property Index No. 16-09-219-0010000

The real estate is improved with a three unit multi family home. Sale terms: If sold to anyone other than the Plaintiff, 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, in certified funds/or wire transfer, is due within twenty-four (24) hours. 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 with-

out 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).

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.

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. 24-18961IL_1099418

Attorney Code. 61256 Case Number: 24 CH 07692 TJSC#: 45-1766

Case # 24 CH 07692 I3272694

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF COOK COUNTY, ILLINOIS COUNTY DEPARTMENTCHANCERY DIVISION WILMINGTON SAVINGS FUND SOCIETY, FSB, NOT IN ITS INDIVIDUAL CAPACITY BUT SOLELY AS OWNER TRUSTEE OF CIM 2021-R5 Plaintiff, -v.SEARCY CARTER, AS INDEPENDENT ADMINISTRATOR OF THE ESTATE OF ELNORA CARTER, SEARCY CARTER, UNKNOWN HEIRS AND LEGATEES OF ELNORA CARTER, TORREESE CARTER, UNKNOWN OWNERS AND NONRECORD CLAIMANTS

Defendants 2022CH11095 5047 ‘’C’’ W. JACKSON CHICAGO, IL 60644

NOTICE OF SALE PUBLIC NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale entered in the above cause on September 26, 2023, an agent for The Judicial Sales Corporation, will at 10:30 A.M. on October 14, 2025, at The Judicial Sales Corporation, One South Wacker, 1st Floor Suite 35R, Chicago, IL, 60606, sell at public in-person sale to the highest bidder, as set forth below, the following described real estate: PARCEL 1: A PART OF THE FOLLOWING TRACT OF LAND DESCRIBED AS: LOT 12 (EXCEPT THE EAST 32 FEET THEREOF) AND ALL OF LOT 13 IN BLOCK 11 IN COMMUNITY RESUBDIVISION OF CERTAIN LOTS AND PART OF LOTS IN THE SCHOOL TRUSTEES’ SUBDIVISION OF THE NORTH PART OF SECTION 6, TOWNSHIP 39 NORTH, RANGE 13, EAST OF THE THIRD PRINCIPAL MERIDIAN, ACCORDING TO THE PLAT RECORDED APRIL 22, 1946 AS DOCUMENT 13774213, IN COOK COUNTY, ILLINOIS, SAID PART BEING DESCRIBED AS FOLLOWS: COMMENCING AT THE NORTHWEST CORNER OF LOT 13; THENCE SOUTH A DISTANCE OF 61.45 FEET TO A POINT IN THE WEST LINE OF SAID TRACT FOR A PLACE OF BEGINNING; THENCE SOUTH ALONG SAID WEST LINE A DISTANCE OF 17.58 FEET TO A POINT IN THE WEST LINE OF SAID TRACT; THENCE EAST AT RIGHT ANGLES TO SAID WEST LINE OF SAID TRACT A DISTANCE OF 50.00 FEET TO THE EAST LINE OF SAID TRACT; THENCE NORTH ALONG SAID EAST LINE A DISTANCE OF 17.58 FEET TO A POINT IN SAID EAST LINE; THENCE WEST AT RIGHT ANGLES TO SAID EAST LINE OF SAID TRACT A DISTANCE OF 50.00 FEET TO THE PLACE OF BEGINNING.

PARCEL 2: THE WEST 12.50 FEET OF THE EAST 37.50 FEET OF THE SOUTH 27.18 FEET OF THE FOLLOWING DESCRIBED TRACT OF LAND: LOT 12 (EXCEPT THE EAST 32 FEET THEREOF) AND ALL OF LOT 13 IN BLOCK 11 IN COMMUNITY RESUBDIVISION OF CERTAIN LOTS AND PART OF LOTS IN THE SCHOOL TRUSTEES’ SUBDIVISION OF THE NORTH PART OF SECTION 6, TOWNSHIP 39 NORTH, RANGE 13, EAST OF THE THIRD PRINCIPAL MERIDIAN, ACCORDING TO THE PLAT RECORDED APRIL 22, 1946 AS DOCUMENT 13774213, IN COOK COUNTY, ILLINOIS.

PARCEL 3: EASEMENT FOR THE BENEFIT OF PARCELS 1 AND 2 FOR INGRESS AND EGRESS AS SET FORTH IN THE DECLARATION OF EASEMENTS RECORDED MARCH 24, 1972 AS DOCUMENT 21845538 AND AS GRANTED BY DEED IN TRUST MADE BY CHRISTINA KLAJA TO CHICAGO TITLE AND TRUST COMPANY, AS TRUSTEE UNDER TRUST NUMBER 58367, DATED FEBRUARY 1, 1972 AND RECORDED MARCH 24, 1972 AS DOCUMENT 21845544, ALL IN COOK COUNTY, ILLINOIS.

Commonly known as 5047 ‘’C’’ W. JACKSON, CHICAGO, IL 60644

Property Index No. 16-16-213-1200000

The real estate is improved with a single family residence.

cial 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).

For information, examine the court file, CODILIS & ASSOCIATES, P.C. Plaintiff’s Attorneys, 15W030 NORTH FRONTAGE ROAD, SUITE 100, BURR RIDGE, IL, 60527 (630) 794-9876 THE JUDICIAL SALES CORPORATION

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

You can also visit The Judicial Sales Corporation at www.tjsc.com for a 7 day status report of pending sales. CODILIS & ASSOCIATES, P.C. 15W030 NORTH FRONTAGE ROAD, SUITE 100 BURR RIDGE IL, 60527 630-794-5300

E-Mail: pleadings@il.cslegal.com

Attorney File No. 14-22-04713 Attorney ARDC No. 00468002 Attorney Code. 21762 Case Number: 2022CH11095 TJSC#: 45-2207

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF COOK COUNTY, ILLINOIS

COUNTY DEPARTMENT � CHANCERY

DIVISION

ERIE CENTRE CONDOMINIUM

ASSOCIATION, AN ILLINOIS NOT� FOR�PROFIT CORPORATION

Plaintiff, -v.-

DAVID R. POWELL

Defendants

2025 CH 01372

375 W. ERIE STREET, UNIT 505 AND P�538

CHICAGO, IL 60654

NOTICE OF SALE PUBLIC NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN

that pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale entered in the above cause on July 16, 2025, an agent for The Judicial Sales Corporation, will at 10�30 AM on October 16, 2025, at The Judicial Sales Corporation, One South Wacker, 1st Floor Suite 35R, Chicago, IL, 60606, sell at public in-person sale to the highest bidder, as set forth below, the following described real estate: Commonly known as 375 W. ERIE STREET, UNIT 505 AND P�538, CHICAGO, IL 60654

Property Index No. 17�09�127�039� 1062; 17�09�127�039�1391

The real estate is improved with a condominium.

The judgment amount was $112,384.03.

Sale terms: If sold to anyone other than the Plaintiff, 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, in certified funds/or wire transfer, is due within twenty-four �24� hours. 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.

Plaintiff’s Attorneys, 640 N. LASALLE DR., SUITE 495, CHICAGO, IL, 60654 �312� 880�1224. 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.

Thomas M. Olson

KOVITZ SHIFRIN NESBIT

640 N. LASALLE DR., SUITE 495 CHICAGO IL, 60654 312�880�1224

E�Mail: tolson@ksnlaw.com

Attorney Code. 38862

Case Number: 2025 CH 01372 TJSC#� 45�1869 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 # 2025 CH 01372 I3273322

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

U.S. BANK NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, AS TRUSTEE, SUCCESSOR IN INTEREST TO BANK OF AMERICA, NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, AS TRUSTEE, SUCCESSOR BY MERGER TO LASALLE BANK, NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, AS TRUSTEE FOR MERRILL LYNCH FIRST FRANKLIN MORTGAGE LOAN TRUST, MORTGAGE PASS�THROUGH CERTIFICATES, SERIES 2007�1, Plaintiff vs. UNKNOWN HEIRS OF MARILYN WILSON, CITY OF CHICAGO, ANDRE WILSON, JAMES WILSON, FAYDRA LEWIS A/K/A FAYDRA HOUSTON, CARY ROSENTHAL AS SPECIAL REPRESENTATIVE, UNKNOWN OWNERS AND NON�RECORD CLAIMANTS, Defendant 24 CH 1984 CALENDAR NOTICE OF SALE PUBLIC NOTICE is hereby given that pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure entered in the above entitled cause Intercounty Judicial Sales Corporation will on October 27, 2025, at the hour 11�00 a.m., Intercounty’s office, 120 West Madison Street, Suite 718A, Chicago, IL 60602, sell to the highest bidder for cash, the following described mortgaged real estate: P.I.N. 16�05�225�014�0000. Commonly known as 1217 N. MASON AVE., CHICAGO, IL 60651. The real estate is: 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: At sale, the bidder must have 10% down by certified funds, balance within 24 hours, by certified funds. No refunds. The property will NOT be open for inspection. Prospective bidders are admonished to check the court file to verify all information. For information call Sales Department at Plaintiff’s Attorney, Law Offices of Ira T. Nevel, 175 North Franklin Street, Suite 201, Chicago, Illinois 60606. �312� 357�1125. 24�00375 INTERCOUNTY JUDICIAL SALES CORPORATION intercountyjudicialsales.com I3273345

Karl Brinson, president of Chicago Westside NAACP branch, chants “no seat, no peace” along w ith others in attendance in 2017, during a rally outside of Chicago City Hall on LaSalle Street in Chicago.

KARL BRINSON

Moms seeing di erences

from page 1

Other successes were the Civil Rights Act of 1964 that ensured the federal government would enforce dese gregation and prohibit segregation in public facilities, government and employment, the Voting Rights Act of 1965 and the Fair Housing Act of 1968.

In a time when President Donald Trump’s administration is making moves to roll back civil rights accomplishments along with Black history, Brinson said when you look at the NAACP’s more than 100-year history, it’s just a new time but the same fight that was fought decades ago.

“This is just a new era of what we’ve been trying to establish and trying to maintain in this country,” Brinson said. “They’re rolling back things that we fought so hard to gain. For some reason or another, I think we thought we had arrived and we took our foot off the pedal in maintaining and still pushing even before Trump got into of fice.”

With African Americans disproportionately represented in impoverished, high crime, and divested communities, the Westside Branch’s aim is to fight for an equitable distribution of resources in those areas.

The organization’s 17 standing committees focus on housing, youth, criminal justice, veteran af fairs, political action, education, environmental justice and more.

As president of the West Side Branch, Brinson pushes back on references to

“leader” when it comes to himself, preferring instead to be described as a “representative.”

“I think when you use the term leader, it indicates someone who knows more, has more and is going to do more,” Brinson said. “Most folks call me that and I don’t like that. Being an activist doesn’t make me a leader. I just preside over the organization.”

One of the biggest challenges these days for the NAACP and other organizations is the lack of support from those whom the organization advocates.

“We’re an all-volunteer organization but most people think that me being president, that I get paid but we don’t get a dime for doing this,” Brinson said. “So, when we get held to the fire and all the demands people put on us, they’re not understanding that we do this because we care.”

U.S. Rep. Danny Davis, who recently announced his retirement from office, said in a prior Austin Weekly News interview that engagement and voting is a must if there’s any hope of changing where things stand today and where things are headed in terms of civil rights.

If you’re feeling powerless during these times, Brinson suggested joining organizations like the NAACP.

The NAACP’s upcoming “The Fierce Urgency of Now! 2025 Freedom Fund Concert” fundraising event featuring songstress Terisa Griffin is scheduled to take place Se pt. 20 at the Kehrein Center for the Arts, 5628 W. Washington, Blvd.

For ticket cost and other information, go to the NAACP–Chicago Westside Branch at cwbnaacp.org.

Rush North & Harlem — Expert Care, Right in Your Neighborhood

Rush brings nationally recognized care closer to you with the opening of Rush North & Harlem, your new neighborhood hub for health and wellness. Conveniently located at the corner of North and Harlem in Chicago, this state-of-the-art, 61,000-square-foot facility offers comprehensive health care services.

Urgent Care, 7 Days a Week

Walk in for minor injuries and illnesses — no appointment needed. Open daily from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m., our urgent care clinic is here when you need it most.

Primary & Specialty Care

Access trusted primary care providers, along with specialists — ranked No. 2 in the nation among academic health systems by Vizient.

Advanced Imaging Services

A full range of on-site imaging, including 3-D mammograms, X-rays, MRIs, CT scans, and ultrasounds, making it easier to get the tests you need.

On-Site Pharmacy

Pick up your prescriptions without making an extra stop. Located on the first floor, easily accessible and steps from the main entrance.

Free, Easy Parking

Enjoy complimentary parking in our dedicated surface lot.

Rush North & Harlem 1625 N. Harlem Ave.