Residents respond to proposed Wrigley Hotel
BY PETER VON BUOL
SPECIAL TO INSIDE
More than half of the nearly 1,000 participants in an on-line survey conducted by the Lakeview Citizens’ Council (L.V.C.C.) opposed granting a zoning change that would allow the construction of a nine-story hotel and apartment complex at Clark, Addison and Sheffield, across the street from Wrigley Field.
Participation in the survey was conducted during a three-week period starting on January 25, just two days after a neighborhood meeting that had been held at Wrigley Field. During that meeting, the project’s developer unveiled plans that include an upscale 137-room Park Hyatt hotel and 150 luxury rental units. In addition, the project also includes a 45,000 square foot health-club and 93,000 square feet of retail space. The development would also include 502 parking spaces “allocated to the uses of the complex”.
According to the L.V.C.C.’s John Becvar, the primary concern of most survey participants was the proposed project’s impact on the surrounding area’s traffic flow. Participants were also worried about the height and square footage of the project, the impact the proposed structure would have on existing residents living within a five-block radius (which would add to the area’s density) and the project’s proposed mix of retail and residential use.
Interestingly, the area’s business owners tended to say “yes” more often than residents.
“There is not a lot of support for the development as it was proposed at the January 23 [neighborhood meeting that was held at Wrigley Field’s Stadium Club]. There was a lot of concern about the precedent this would [set],” said Becvar.
Among the minority of those who did support the project, 55% of these respondents said they were not “scared the project would set a precedent” and 87% said they also believed the project would have a “positive impact on the long-term survivability of the neighborhood”.
While the majority of the survey participants said they opposed the project as it was presented at the Janruary meeting, 49% of the participants said they believe there is a need for a brand-name hotel in Lakeview.
“The idea of a hotel in Lakeview did receive some support but not necessarily the [one that was] proposed,” said Becvar.
Nine-hundred seventy individuals participated in the on-line survey hosted by the L.V.C.C. The largest number of respondents belonged to two branches, the Southport Neighborhood Association and the East Lake View Neighbors Association. At the start of the survey, 2,541 Lake View residents and business owners had been invited to participate.
Becvar said he is disappointed the project developer has not been in communication with the L.V.C.C. He said his organization is still waiting for a copy of the project-something that had been promised at the January meeting.
“The developer has not contacted us and we are disappointed he has not shared either a hard or soft copy of his January presentation with the neighborhood. Similarly, he has not attended any L.V.C.C. or branch meetings,” added Becvar.
In contrast, said Becvar, the Chicago Cubs send a company representative to neighborhood meetings and have been very open proposed changes to Wrigley Field and the Chicago Cubs.
“The Chicago Cubs send delegates to attend every meeting we have and are always willing and available to talk to us. We greatly appreciate their openness,” said Becvar.
During neighborhood meetings, representatives from the Chicago Cubs baseball team have said no major decisions have yet been made about the status of Wrigley Field or the baseball team.
“The Cubs [officials] have been very clear to separate rumors from facts. The facts they have shared are [real-estate investor] Sam Zell has bought the Chicago Tribune and said he has been looking at his options. Zell [first] has to figure out what to do with the ball park,” said Becvar.
Becvar said his organization’s primary concern is continued implementation of the 2004 Neighborhood Protection Ordinance.
“This Ordinance has been functioning very effectively. The Cubs have gone over and above to ensure our neighborhood is clean and safe before, during and after Cubs games. Residents were very pleased with how concerts were conducted. We have asked for a 5-year agreement (the draft for which is on the L.V.C.C. website). We want to ensure the same level of neighborhood protections and community support continues in the future, regardless of who the owners of the Cubs or Wrigley Field are. We are not interested in changing the Neighborhood Protection Ordinance,” said Becvar.
According to its web site, “the L.V.C.C. is a non-profit civic organization serving the Lakeview community on the North Side. Its boundaries are Lake Michigan on the east, the North Branch of the Chicago River on the west, Diversey Parkway on the south, going south on Lakewood Avenue until it meets the river, and Irving Park Road on the north. [The boundaries] are approximately those of the original township of Lake View, founded in the early 1800’s and annexed by the City of Chicago in 1903.” Opening day for the Cubs is March 31.
North Lake Shore Drive resurfacing project in the works
BY JEFF BORGARDT
EDITOR
The Chicago Department of Transportation is zooming forward on plans to resurface a portion of North Lake Shore Drive but they have not accelerated plans for the much larger complete reconstruction of the aging, scenic roadway.
This means the 70,000 cars that traverse North Lake Shore Drive each weekday have dodged a major traffic gridlock bullet; but will still face sizable delays once the smaller repavement project begins.
The city is now working with the Illinois Department of Transportation on funding for the $1 million to $5 million repaving of Lake Shore Drive from Irving Park Road to Foster Avenue.
The top layer of the road will be repaved in both directions. This is a big project, but smaller than reconstructing the entire road structure.
The project has not yet been advertised or competitively bid so “it will be at least couple months” until repaving said city transportation spokesman Brian Steele.
Repavements are needed every five to fifteen years while complete reconstruction is needed after 40 to 60 years, Steele said.
North Lake Shore Drive still has the same “sub-base structure” from the 1950s and will require a complete reconstruction eventually. The reconstruction would include resurfacing. In some parts on this stretch, the road still includes original concrete from the 1930s.
North Lake Shore Drive, which is not an expressway and has a speed limit of 40 and 45 miles per hour and does not permit truck traffic, gets 60,000 to 80,000 cars each weekday, Steele said.
The city began discussions with state transport officials last fall and identified the Irving Park to Foster section as the chunk most in need of a new surface.
“This is a large scale capital process,” said Steele. “It will take several months or even a year. The complete reconstruction is a much bigger project and is still a ways off.”
South Lake Shore Drive was completely reconstructed several years ago, and the Northside is next. Lake Shore also got a significant restructure in the 1980s
Illinois Department of Transportation spokesman Mike Claffey said the repavement from Irving Park to Foster is expected to begin this summer.
Lake Shore Drive is a state roadway but is maintained by the Chicago Department of Transportation.
“We have been talking about this. It is badly needed,” said Claffey. “Nothing has been finalized or scheduled, but it is expected this summer.”
Claffey said the extreme cold weather this winter has contributed to added potholes on the road intensifying the need for road resurfacing.
The first portions of Lake Shore Drive, or U.S. Highway 41, were built in 1937. The roadway was named Lake Shore Drive in 1946.
Construction ongoing at North Avenue bridge Project behind schedule
Construction is underway at the North Avenue bridge at 1200 W. North Avenue in Lincoln Park. The original one-lane drawbridge over the North Branch of the Chicago River was constructed more than a century ago in 1907. The drawbridge on that former structure was last raised in 1972.
The new $21.4 million bridge will be both a suspension and cable bridge which is a unique design. This major project is years in the making. In a community meeting held in Nov., 2003 at Yonsdorf Hall at North and Halsted Avenues city transportation officials said the bridge was expected to be completed in June, 2005 but warned there could be delays.
The bridge carries approximately 50,000 motorists per day. A new traffic light is also being installed.
CITY BEAT
Truman College parking garage meeting set for Monday
A community meeting will be held Monday night March 24 at 6 p.m. at Truman College, 1145 W Wilson Ave, to discuss planned improvements.
The college is slated to expand the Student Services Center and build a new parking garage.
College spokesman Clifton Daniel was on spring break and could not be reached for comment last week.
A college statement says “The Student Services Center expansion and additional parking will benefit Truman College students, staff and faculty and be and asset to the community. Benefits of the community-focused design include expanded parking for students and faculty to relieve resident and business street parking, potential weekend garage parking open to the public, expanding continuing education programs for the community, such as yoga, exercise and financial planning courses, additional green space and landscaping, which will improve the environment and be enjoyed by students and community residents alike and new facilities and outdoor space for hosting community events.”
Van for disabled artist nearing reality
BY HAYLEY CARLTON
SPECIAL TO INSIDE
Lincoln Square children are assisting fundraising efforts to procure a wheelchair accessible van for a disabled artist confined to a chair by street violence. They are painting pictures and selling them with all proceeds earmarked for the van.
Tony Davis, 32, was paralyzed at age 18 in an act of violence that claimed the life of his cousin. Davis’ attackers have yet to be caught. The children’s paintings all revolve around the theme of Africa, and include lions and other African-centric choices. Davis chose that theme, because that is the place where he would most like to visit.
Davis paints by holding the brush in his mouth. “I do oil paintings,” said Davis who enjoys painting roses, portraits, still lifes and sea scapes. Presently, his art work is being used by an organization (for foot and mouth artists) that puts it on greeting cards and calendars. Though he has regained some movement in his hand and arms, he still paints with his mouth because “I can’t get my hand up that far.”
“Look at the detail here,” said Pam Vujovich, who runs Art in the Square, an art instruction studio where Davis takes classes. Vujovich holds up one of Davis’ paintings of a reclining woman. “You can see the spine here (of the woman) and you can’t even see any brush stokes.”
While Davis had artistic interests before being injured, he says that he didn’t really come into his own before taking classes. “I couldn’t get the colors right.” Since taking classes, Davis had created six paintings and plans to do more.
The association that puts Davis’ art on greeting cards and calendars owns it for the time being, Davis says that after a year, the ownership will revert to him and he will hold an exhibition of his work.
It was Vujovich who first came up with the idea of raising funds for a van. “Just the other day he waited here for an hour and-a-half for a cab.”
Davis also takes the CTA, and is a CTA employee, working to make sure that disabled and elderly passengers have proper access. While Davis takes the CTA to work, because the EL station closest to his job is not handicapped accessible, Davis has to get off at another stop and “backtrack three or four blocks.”
The children who are creating paintings for the fundraiser are also taking classes at Art in the Square, where the paintings are for sale. Vujovich is also doing a raffle of such items as tickets to boat rides on Wendella (which has tours of the Chicago River), art supply packages and a portrait from a professional photographer. Tickets are $5 each. “We are going to hold it in April, so we can sell more tickets,” said Vujovich.
In addition to the children’s paintings and the raffle tickets, anyone who wants to donate money can visit any Charter One Bank and make a donation to the Friends of Tony Davis. So far about $3,000 has been raised. Vujovich is visiting local car dealerships in hopes of getting someone to donate or sell a van for a reduced price.
Davis says that he is taking driving lessons and that the van would help him take care of his wife, Juanita, who battles lupus. “In different stages of the year, when the weather changes, sometimes she can’t even get out of bed.” Davis, for example does the grocery shopping. “I come home with bags (of food) on my wheelchair and my wife says she doesn’t know how I do it.”
Once he gets a van, the city will pay to have a wheel chair lift installed as well as a hand brake. Davis says he will get his drivers’ license soon.
Anyone who is interested in purchasing a painting or a raffle ticket can visit Art in the Square at 2314 W. Leland or call Vujovich at (773) 271-4176.
Harry Caray’s opens in Wrigleyville
Holy cow! A grand opening event for the new Harry Caray’s Tavern will be held March 26 at 3551 N. Sheffield Avenue.
The new eatery “offers the perfect blend of a lively sports bar and classic tavern, creating Wrigleyville’s premier location for dining, socializing and unsurpassed viewing for all sporting events. The menu features salads, paninis, pizzas and the Holy Cow Burger Bar.”
Attorney reveals soccer fight plans
BY TRACY YOSHIDA GRUEN
SPECIAL TO INSIDE
Herb Kaplan, the attorney for “The Committee to Keep Lincoln Park Public,” said last week he plans to file for an injunction to hopefully put an end to the construction of the new soccer field near Lincoln Park Zoo.
A FOIA request was submitted on Feb. 1 and on Feb. 8 the park district asked for an additional seven days to collect the documentation. The FOIA asked for “all studies, reports and recommendations relating to the construction of a soccer field in Lincoln Park” and “all records of meetings and communications” including “informal personal contacts, postal mail, E-mail messages, notes of telephone conversations, minutes of meetings, transcripts, recordings and summaries of reports.”
Kaplan said the park district is supposed to perform technical studies to determine the need for park improvements and evaluate their priorities.
Their answer to the committee’s request for documentation was that they haven’t done the study, as well as other preliminary studies, according to Kaplan.
“They haven’t followed the rules,” said Kaplan. “We’ve observed there was construction going on and light poles have been brought in,” said Kaplan. “We found there were no work permits posted on the site even though all of the work is being done by private contractors. The city would not tell us whether permits were actually released.”
The group has contacted the city’s hotline to report that there was work going on without permits on display and they asked the city to stop work and take corrective action against the contractors.
“I doubt that anything will happen,” said Kaplan, mentioning the city’s desire to move forward with the construction of the new modern soccer field. “The city has a conflict of interest.”
The Committee to Keep Lincoln Park Public plans to file for the injunction.
Kaplan added that the park district never filed an application for permit under the lakefront protection ordinance.
He said any alterations must be submitted to the plan commission. Then, letters would be sent to neighbors, an open meeting would be held and then the plan commission would make a decision.
For more information on the soccer field, read a letter to the editor by Park District CEO Tim Mitchell on page 10.
Obama holds event at History Museum
BY JEFF BORGARDT
EDITOR
Illinois Senator Barack Obama continued his historic campaign for the presidency with a stop at the Chicago History Museum last Wednesday, March 12.
He was joined by retired admirals and generals from the United States Army, Navy and Air Force.
Obama first gave a speech about national security.
After his speech, four of the admirals and generals spoke about the senator. Then, after that, Obama took questions from reporters for 45 minutes. About 75 people were at the History Museum event in total. Most of them were reporters. There were 10 TV cameras.
The event was held in the ornate Chicago Room of the History Museum, 1601 N. Clark Street. Nine American flags were on display. In addition, there was one flag for each branch of the military.
Questions focused on the latest happenings in the senator’s campaign for the Democratic nomination.
Obama was asked about a recent comment that he has been helped by his racial identity and he was also asked how his campaign would handle the dilemma of counting votes in the bumbled elections of Michigan and Florida. Obama also reacted to the recent resignation of a top Iraq War commander Admiral William Fallon and commented about his rival Sen. Hillary Clinton of New York while touting his early opposition to the war in Iraq.
Obama stated he was surprised the Clinton camp suggested he was not prepared to be president because he feels that claim would more likely be made by a Republican, but not a fellow Democrat.
Retired Air Force Gen. Merrill Smith said he supports Senator Obama because he is steady and reliable.
“He is no shock Barack and no drama Obama,” Smith said.
The senator started his speech saying “It is my privilege to be joined by some of the distinguished generals and admirals supporting my campaign. They have defended the American people and stood up for American values with honor and distinction. Between them they have served nine Commanders-in-Chief, and I look forward to continuing to draw on their counsel throughout my campaign and beyond,” Obama said. “As a candidate for the presidency, I know that I am running to be Commander-in-Chief to safeguard this nation’s security, and to keep our sacred trust with the men and women who serve.”
The purpose of the event was to tout Obama’s national security skills and the endorsements of the admirals and generals.
“I spent a career involved in coalition warfare, and I am keenly aware of the importance of working with allies,” said retired Air Force Brigadier General James Smith. “Senator Obama brings a powerful approach to dealing with national security challenges by truly leveraging multinational relationships. He brings a new face of America to the rest of the world.”
Racial issues discussed at university
Author offers insight into religion and race
Honest conversations that help Christians advance racial understanding must allow participants to “not be afraid to say some dumb things,” journalist Ed Gilbreath told a forum at North Park Theological Seminary recently.
Without the freedom to say dumb things, and even speak words that are rude, unkind or ignorant, true healing dialogue cannot occur because the depth of discussion needed will not occur, added Gilbreath, author of the book “Reconciliation Blues: A Black Evangelical’s Inside View of White Christianity.” Also needed is trust—trust that the other person genuinely wants reconciliation, he added.
Gilbreath is editor-at-large and former editor with Christianity Today as well as a former editor with Today’s Christian magazine. For years he was the lone or one of only a few African-Americans on staff in either organization. He now is the editorial director for Urban Ministries.
He told of hearing dumb things spoken by people who did not know what they were saying. At best, the words were spoken in ignorance by well-intentioned friends, or at worst, by others stoking latent racism.
There have been times, for example, when a person didn’t realize the racism in their comments when they told Gilbreath, “Ed, you’re different. I don’t even think of you as black.”
Such remarks betray the lie that society has become colorblind. “Our ‘color-blindness’ has hindered us from seeing the distance we still need to travel,” Gilbreath said.
The biggest obstacle to reconciliation is that “we still don’t know each other,” Gilbreath said. To overcome the barriers, “We must work, live and worship alongside one another to get to know one another.”
By being with one another, people can move beyond the labels and stereotypes that often lay a burden on others in ways rarely recognized, Gilbreath said. He laughed at how his white colleagues at Christianity Today would always turn to him for a black person’s perspective on events because he was the expert on “all things African-American.”
Gilbreath said he felt the pressure of having to present that perspective although, “No one person can represent any particular race.”
He quipped, however, that there were times he relished the opportunity and sometimes felt slightly threatened when another African-American was hired at the organization, especially if they had a different perspective than his own. Gilbreath laughed as he recalled thinking at the time, “These are my white people! I’ve worked too hard to condition them.”
Gilbreath said Christians must live the call to love others as the Apostle Paul declares in 2 Corinthians 5: 16: “From now on, we regard no one from an earthly point of view.” Such love will require intentionality, he added.
That intentionality must be modeled in the church if Christians are to have credibility with others, Gilbreath said. He quoted from Martin Luther King’s “A Knock at Midnight” sermon in which the civil rights leader declared, “If the church does not recapture its prophetic zeal, it will become an irrelevant social club without moral or spiritual authority. If the church does not participate actively in the struggle for peace and for economic and racial justice, it will forfeit the loyalty of millions and cause men everywhere to say that it has atrophied its will.”
Gilbreath said he does not believe that every church has to be multi-ethnic, but all congregations, regardless of their ethnicity, must have the heart to reach beyond themselves. The church will grow richer as a result because, “each race represents a unique side of God’s image.”
Despite the racial divisions that still exist, Gilbreath stated, “The divide is not too wide for the cross, the cross of Christ.”
Gilbreath met with a group of leaders from North Park University and the Evangelical Covenant Church, and he spoke Thursday evening in Hamming Hall on the University’s campus. The events were sponsored by the Center for Youth Ministry Studies and Center for Justice Ministries at North Park Theological Seminary, as well as University Ministries and the Dialogue Program at North Park University, 3200 W. Foster Ave.
POLICE BEAT
Irish hedge fund accountant robbed
A police officer on patrol observed three people fighting March 14 at 12:45 a.m. on the 800 block of W. Aldine Avenue.
After separating the people, the officer learned that a hedge fund accountant from Dublin, Ireland, 22, and another man from the Northside, 31, were walking down the street when they were approached by a 30-year-old from Maywood who asked them for money. They refused and walked away.
The Maywood man then approached the Dubliner from behind, reached into his pocket and removed a bundle of cash.
The two then followed the robber while looking to locate a police officer. The robber then approached them, raised his hand in a threatening way and a struggle ensued. When the officer found them, the hedge fund accountant yelled “He robbed me!”
The officer saw a large bundle of cash in the hand of the robber. It turned out to be $439 and was returned to him.
The Irish man had a receipt for that amount from a recent
wire transfer.
Schools, police to share crime camera video feed
Chicago Public Schools and city officials have agreed on a partnership that will give the Chicago Police Department and the city’s Office of Emergency Management and Communications a remote connection to the safety cameras installed inside and outside Chicago schools.
Over the years, CPS has installed more safety cameras in and around their buildings to help assure safety on school grounds.
Until now, the real-time video provided by more than 4,500 cameras inside and outside about 200 public elementary and high schools and administrative sites has been accessible only to school officials.
But under the new agreement, the police department and the Office of Emergency Management and Communications will have a remote connection to the safety cameras.
Chicago is the first city in the nation to have this kind of integrated system and the first buildings are on line now. The system will be fully implemented over the next few months.
For example, it will allow first responders to an emergency situation at a school to be able to see real time video from inside and outside the building on their portable data terminals.
“When this program is fully implemented over the next few months, we will have a comprehensive school security system that will make it far easier for us to respond more quickly and effectively to any emergency at a school building,” Mayor Daley said at a news conference held at police headquarters, 3510 S. State St.
Daley and the other officials made the announcement against the backdrop of last weekend’s violence against young people during which four public school students were killed and another five wounded in separate gun incidents.
“Let me make clear that routine monitoring will occur using only the outside cameras. The inside cameras will be viewable to authorized users only during emergencies,” the mayor said.
On March 22, the city’s new curfew hours will go into effect. Starting that night for young people under 17, the curfew will start at 10 p.m. Sunday through Thursday and 11 p.m. on Friday and Saturday.
18/23
Drive-by shooting in Uptown
A victim, 24, standing on 800 block of W. Sunnyside Avenue with several others March 13 was approached by a green or turquoise minivan at 8 p.m.
The driver-side rear passenger door opened and a gunner opened fire shooting off five rounds with a handgun.
The victim then realized he was shot and flagged down a car. He entered this car along with a man, 21, a woman, 24, and another male, 16, who were with him.
That car was then pulled over by police. The shooting victim was then taken to hospital.
Officer bit
A reputed member of the Insane Mafia Vice Lord street gang, 25, was arrested for biting a police officer on the 900 block of W. Montrose Avenue March 3.
The offender, of the 1400 block of N. Larrabee Street, was observed leaving “a known drug house” after walking in and out for only one minute. He was approached by two officers for an interview and they saw his right hand clenched tightly and then placed into his pocket. The officers asked him to remove his hand from his pocket and he refused. The officers then grabbed his hand, pulled it out of his pocket, a small bag of marijuana was observed and he was placed into custody. As one of the officers unzipped the man’s coat, he bit him on the hand and the officer elbowed him in the face. He was charged with aggravated battery and possession of cannabis.
Woman rescued from lagoon
A woman in her 60’s was rescued from freezing water at 10 a.m. March 14 off the 2300 block of N. Cannon Drive. Police marine units and firefighters made the rescue. The water was 38 degrees at the time and the woman had climbed onto a rock.
Stabbing
A stabbing occurred March 7 at 8:35 p.m. on the 4400 block of W. Sheridan Road. A woman, 32, entered a building with a key through the rear entrance. The victim, 42, has told her not to come there in the past. He confronted the woman and told her to leave while standing near the elevator with family members. She tried to walk around him and get in the elevator. He blocked the way. She then became irate, started screaming obscenities, pulled out a key, cell phone and a knife and stabbed the man in the hand causing redness and swelling.
The woman then ran out the door, threw the key to the ground and fled down Sheridan. Officers chased her down and she resisted arrest flailing her arms. She continued screaming at police and then said she was pregnant and wanted medical attention, was taken to Thorek Hospital and then refused treatment. The woman later apologized.
Pick-pocket hits train
A pick-pocket struck on a CTA train March 10 on the 1100 block of W. Lawrence. Money was taken from a victim’s pocket.
Bar burglarized
An unlawful entry burglary occurred in a bar at 2913 N. Clark Street March 16
Cars stolen
Several cars were stolen recently. One motor vehicle parked on the street was stolen March 16 on the 3600 block of N. Wilton Avenue. A 2002 Red Ford focus was stolen on the 900 block of W. Lawrence March 13. Another vehicle was stolen on the 1000 block of W. Buena Avenue March 13 and a 2000 Z3 was stolen March 13 on the 900 block of Roscoe St.
Also, a 1999 White QX4 parked on the street was stolen March 14 on the 500 block of W. Wellington Avenue. A silver S40 parked on the street was taken March 13 on the 2900 block of Lake Shore Drive.
Hospital theft
A woman was arrested for theft under $300 at a hospital on the 800 block of Irving Park Road March 5 at 3 p.m.
19/20
Neighbor steals Gin from Dominick’s
A 44-year-old from the 5000 block of N. Sheridan Road was arrested for stealing a bottle of Gin from the Dominick’s on the 5200 block of N. Sheridan March 16 at 4:05 p.m.
“Give me all you got or I’ll shoot you in the face”
A man, 28, an underwriter, was robbed March 12 at 1:05 a.m. He was walking to his car on the 4800 block of N. Seeley Avenue when he noticed a car come to a stop and several people came up from behind him. He was asked if he had anything and said no.
When he tried to walk across the street, he was blocked by a man who displayed a semiautomatic handgun and told him to get on the ground. The man lay down and handed over his wallet which had his credit cards, ID and $6.
The robber then said “You got more, give me all you got or I’ll shoot you in the face.”
The man then handed over his cell phone and car keys. The robber then said “you got more” and searched his pocket taking his house keys and work ID pass. The robber then kicked the man in the face and shouted “let’s go,” jumped in the car and drove away. The man flagged down a patrol officer and was treated at Swedish Hospital for a cut face.
Taxicab stolen from repair garage
A taxi was stolen from a taxi repair garage on the 1100 block of W. Foster March 15. An unknown man walked into the garage and took the unattended Crown Victoria at about 2 p.m.
New friends steal pants
A retail worker, 45, met a man and woman, both about 20, March 15 about midnight and they went to his apartment to hang out. When he went into the bathroom, however, the two took his black pants and fled. Inside the pants was $900. The pants were dropped in the man’s lobby, but the cash was gone.
Death threats issued after fight
A man, 20, was in a dispute with another man of the same age March 16 on the 1500 block of W. Winnemac Avenue. He suffered a laceration after a fight. The fighter then went to his apartment, spit on his car and yelled obscene death threats at him as he was in his home.
Mother hits boy in face with bat
A mother of boys playing basketball in the park on the 5900 block of Broadway came by the game with an aluminum baseball bat and hit one of the boys in the eye with the bat March 17 at 5 p.m. and started screaming and threatening the boy. He ran from her and tripped and fell, causing further injury, according to a police report. Four of the boys were nine years old and one was 12.
Babysitter punched, robbed
A robber punched a man, 25, in the face and took his money March 17 at 4:40 p.m. on the 5600 block of N. Winthrop Avenue. The victim’s occupation is a babysitter. The robber has the nickname “Midnight” and is believed to be a member of the Mickey Cobra street gang.
Bar manager caught stealing
The manager, 27, of Charles Ale House, 5308 N. Clark, was arrested for allegedly stealing between $100 to $300 each time she worked. The owner suspects this has been going on since November, 2006.
108 items of clothing taken
Two men hauled out loads of new clothes from brand-name retailers on the 800 block of N. Michigan Avenue Feb. 29 at 5 p.m. The men loaded up a total 24 shirts, 32 t-shirts, 32 tank tops and 20 pairs of shorts at two shops. Police suspect they put aluminum foil inside their bag to thwart security detectors.
Drummer hit in head with bottle
A drummer, 33, was cracked in the head on the 1000 block of N. Rush Street at 2:15 a.m. March 2. The offender, 21, was arrested and the victim was treated at Northwest Memorial Hospital.
Drunk attorney beaten, jacket taken
An attorney, 26, was beaten by a group of men after drinking at 3 a.m. March 1 on the 1200 block of N. Clark St.
During the beating, his jacket was stolen. The next day, he thought he spotted his jacket on the street and approached the man wearing it. The jacket wearer claimed he purchased the coat for $10 from a drug dealer and then sold it to the attorney for $10.
Zoo study says chimps on TV bad for ecology
A study conducted by researchers at Lincoln Park Zoo, 2200 N. Cannon Drive, reveals the first evidence that conservation efforts for endangered chimpanzees may be hampered by the entertainment industry’s inappropriate use and portrayal of the species. The research findings are published in March 14 issue of the journal Science.
According to lead author of the paper Steve Ross, supervisor of cognitive and behavior research at Lincoln Park Zoo, in 44 of the 50 states in America, chimpanzees can be privately owned as pets and used as “actors.”
“In movies, television and advertisements chimpanzees are often dressed in human clothes, picturein contrived positions and depicted as human caricatures. These images are viewed by millions of people annually,” said Ross. “We now have evidence that this inaccurate and inappropriate portrayal of chimpanzees may negatively influence the way the public perceives this endangered species which is in need of serious conservation efforts.”
A recent survey of nearly 1,000 people was conducted at Lincoln Park Zoo’s Regenstein Center for African Apes to assess visitor knowledge and attitudes towards apes. Despite the fact that all great apes are endangered, ninety-five percent of respondents thought gorillas were endangered; 91 percent thought orangutans were, while only 66 percent believed chimpanzees to be endangered. When asked to provide an explanation for their choices, the most common response was that chimpanzees were often seen on television, advertisements and movies and therefore must not be in jeopardy. Lincoln Park Zoo’s study was duplicated with similar results at the Great Ape Trust of Iowa. Current scientific estimates are that chimpanzee populations could go extinct in the wild within a few decades if drastic conservation action is not taken
“The inappropriate portrayal of great apes in media undermines the scientific, welfare and conservation goals that Lincoln Park Zoo and others are working hard to achieve,” said Ross. “Together with like-minded organizations the zoo is working to make progress in shifting the perception of chimpanzees as frivolous subhumans in no danger of extinction
to more scientifically
accurate characterizations of our closest relatives that stir interest, respect and conservation effort.”
NEIGHBORHOOD NOTES
Lake View * Lincoln Square * Ravenswood * Uptown
Chamber organizing ‘Kids in the Square’ day
The Lincoln Square Chamber of Commerce’s Spring event, “Kids in the Square” takes place Saturday, April 26 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at participating businesses.
To participate a business must be willing to host some sort of incentive to get people in their door and should be related in some way to kids, babies or parents. For example, Timeless Toys, 4749 N. Lincoln Avenue, will be hosting Teddy Bear picnics throughout the day; Salamander of Chicago, 4740 N. Lincoln Avenue, will be giving out treats. Other ideas include giving away helium balloons, doing story time or giving away juice and cookies.
Book discussion at library for public information series
Fred Krupp, president of the Environmental Defense Fund, will discuss and sign his new book, “Earth: The Sequel, The Race to Reinvent Energy and Stop Global Warming” Thursday, March 27 at 7 p.m. at the Conrad Sulzer Regional Library, 4455 N. Lincoln Avenue.
In this book, Krupp explains how to harness the great forces of capitalism to save the world from catastrophe. And in doing so, he explains how we can build the new industries, jobs and fortunes of the twenty-first century.
“Chicago Matters: Growing Forward” will explore critical issues affecting our region’s ability to address the challenges and opportunities to develop the Chicago region. Chicago Matters is an annual public information series initiated and funded by the Chicago Community Trust, metropolitan Chicago’s community foundation, with programming by WTTW Channel 11, Chicago Public Radio, the Chicago Public Library and the Chicago Reporter.
Radio comedy in Edgewater
On Saturday, April 5, at 2 p.m., the Edgewater Historical Society hosts “Those Were The Days Radio Players.”
Chicago North will perform two comedies from the Golden Age of Radio of the 1930s, 1940s and 1950s.
A Great Gildersleeve and a Jack Benny comedy are on the agenda at the Edgewater Historical Society, 5358 N. Ashland Avenue. Free program and donations to the museum are gratefully accepted.
Recycling meeting at Truman College
Learn how to recycle in the home by attending an upcoming informational meeting at 7 p.m. Tuesday, March 25 at Truman College, 1145 W Wilson Ave.
Hear from ward and City of Chicago staff on how to effectively recycle. Come with questions on how to recycle with Blue Carts and hear how multi-unit buildings in the area have set up effective recycling programs.
Before the meeting, look on garbage dumpsters and write down the name of your waste hauler. Bring that information to the meeting, and get advice on how to work with waste haulers to create an effective recycling program.
Meeting sponsored by 46th ward Alderman Helen Shiller, Uptown United, Uptown Business Partners, Department of Streets & Sanitation and the Department of Environment.
Sewing ladies
The Emanuel Congregation Sewing Ladies meet at the Emanuel Library, 5959 N. Sheridan Road every Tuesday morning from 9 a.m. until 12:30 p.m. They knit, crochet, and sew items for delivery to St. Joseph’s Hospital, St. Gertrude’s Church, the Ark, and Jewish Children and Family Services. They welcome volunteers, donations of machine-washable yarns or cash to buy yarn
Performance: Carmen
The opera Carmen will be performed March 28 and 30, times vary, at the Athenaeum Theatre, 2936 N. Southport.
The colorful, passionate score, Gypsy rhythms, and fiery drama of Bizet’s Carmen never fail to capture the imagination of audiences of all generations. Perhaps the most popular story in all of opera, it tells the tale of the tempestuous gypsy Carmen and her tormented lover, Don José. Let Chamber Opera Chicago’s innovative new production of this classic opera transport you from Chicago to Seville. Barbara Landis returns in her critically acclaimed signature role as Carmen. Presented in an exciting new condensed adaptation with full orchestra, children’s chorus, and Spanish dancers. Performance times: 7:30 p.m. on March 28; 3 p.m. on March 30. Tickets cost $20–$35, with discounts available for students and seniors. Purchase tickets online or by calling 312-951-7944.
Gold Coast * Lincoln Park * Loop * Near North
State budget hearing
Northside state representatives are hosting a regional state budget hearing this month to “bring state government to the people, provide a greater understanding of Illinois’ current financial condition and give local residents the opportunity to offer their views on what state funding priorities should be.” Community organizations, local officials, health care facilities and school districts are invited to participate. The budget hearing will take place on Thursday, March 27 at 6 p.m. in the Olson Auditorium of Advocate Illinois Masonic Medical Center, 836 W. Wellington Ave. For more information, call Jon Paul Valadez at 312-814-4887.
Oz Ball at Planetarium
The family-friendly Oz Ball will be held Saturday, April 26, from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. at the Adler Planetarium, 1300 S. Lake Shore Drive.
The Emerald City Theatre Company encourages participants to come dressed in the best party attire or as a favorite Oz character for their third-annual Oz Ball benefit fundraiser.
“Everyone knows there’s no place like Oz, so c’mon parents, have the brains, heart and courage to take your kids to Emerald City’s Oz Ball,” said Oz Ball Co-Chairperson Mary Ellen Messner of Chicago’s Department of Children and Youth Services. “Not only is it a rare event specifically designed for families, but it fits perfectly with Emerald City’s mission - to bring families closer together and inspire children everywhere.”
Call Emerald City, (773) 529-2690, or click on emeraldcitytheatre.com/ozball before March 31 to take advantage of early bird discounts.
Nelson Algren reading
Writer “Nelson Algren’s 99th birthday party” will be held at 8 p.m. on Saturday, March 22 at St. Paul’s Church, 2215 W. North Avenue. Poets reading from Algren’s work include Charlie Newman, Gregorio Gomez, Joe Rorty and Dan Godston. Live blues bands will also be on hand. Sponsors are the Near Northwest Arts Council and the Nelson Algren Committee.
Disability activist to present work
Poet and disability advocate Stephen Kuusisto will read from his work at Roosevelt University’s Chicago Campus on Wednesday, April 2.
The reading begins at 5 p.m. in AUD 244, 430 S. Michigan Avenue.
Kuusisto’s first memoir, “Planet of the Blind,” was a New York Times Notable Book of the Year in 1998. His second book of nonfiction, “Eavesdropping: A Memoir of Blindness and Listening,” was published by W.W. Norton in 2007. He is also the author of “Only Bread, Only Light,” a collection of poems from Copper Canyon Press. The New York Times has recognized Kuusisto as “a powerful writer with a musical ear for language and a gift for emotional candor.”
Kuusisto’s essays and poems have appeared in numerous anthologies and literary magazines including Harper’s, The New York Times Magazine, Poetry and Partisan Review. He is currently working on a collection of prose poems for Copper Canyon Press called “Mornings with Borges,” as well as a collection of political poems about disability.
Kuusisto teaches in the graduate creative nonfiction writing program at the University of Iowa, where he also holds a dual appointment as a public humanities scholar in the Carver School of Medicine. Blind since birth, Kuusisto is an energetic advocate of people with disabilities. He speaks widely on diversity, disability, education and public policy and blogs on disability issues at www.planet-of-the-blind.com.
For further information, email creativewriting@roosevelt.edu or call Peggy Shinner at 312-341-2142.
Free Spring nature event in Lincoln Park
Spring into Action Day will be held Saturday, March 22, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. at the Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum, 2430 North Cannon Drive.
Celebrate spring and reconnect with nature. In honor of the Chicago Academy of Sciences’ 150th anniversary, enjoy free admission and parking in the harbor lot across the street on Cannon Drive as well as numerous special programs including the debut of the North Gallery Activity Center with green projects for the whole family. Visitors can also release a longwing into the Haven for the Adopt-a-butterfly event or take in the critter connections, animal feedings, art activities and music.
Magnet school benefit
A Latino world music, dance and arts benefit for Inter-American Magnet School will be held Saturday March 29 from 4 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. at 851 W. Waveland Ave. The benefit includes live music, dance performances, food fair, silent auction, artisan bazaar and children’s art activities representing over a dozen different Latin American and Spanish traditions. Bilingual, family-friendly, open to the public; $10 adults, $5 children. Limited free parking.
Literature class at Newberry Library
The class “Charles Dickens: A Tale of Two Cities and Great Expectations” will be held on Tuesdays from March 11 to April 22 at 6:00 p.m. at the Newberry Library, 60 W. Walton St.
Charles Dickens is often considered the most influential fiction writer of the 19th century, owing in part to his astounding prolificacy (16 novels) but also to his innovations and contributions to publishing, copyright law, popular culture, and the development of the novel form. In lecture and discussion, this seminar will focus on a close analytical reading of A Tale of Two Cities (1859) and Great Expectations (1860–1861). This is the seventh in a series of eight seminars devoted to the reading of Dickens’s novels (to which newcomers are always welcomed). Taught by Tim Strzechowski, who holds an M.A. in English literature and regularly conducts seminars on Paradise Lost and the literature of Hell, along with his ongoing series on Dickens. Registration for this seven-session class costs $150 and may be completed online or by calling 312-255-3700.
Spring fling
The March Spring Fling and Annual Event of the River North Association will be held at the Embassy Suites-Chicago Downtown, 600 N. State St., March 20, from 5:30 p.m. to 8 p.m.
Join us for an evening of highlighting the years achievements, installing 2008 board members, awarding prizes and networking.
Food and drinks have been donated by Zocalo, The Original Gino’s East and The Embassy Suites Chicago-Downtown.
Raffle Prizes have been donated by Southwest Airlines, Embassy Suites Chicago-Downtown, and National GraphX. Presenting Sponsor is North Bank.
Art talk
The School of the Art Institute of Chicago, hosts “Artist’s Talk: Angela Ferreria” March 24 at 6 p.m. at 37 South Wabash Avenue. Admission $5 general public, $3 students, seniors, and alumni.
100 paintings by contemporary artist displayed
Born in Missouri, lesser-known painter, 80, lives in France
One of the more accomplished yet lesser known American artists of his generation, James Bishop is the subject of the Art Institute of Chicago’s latest installment of the focus contemporary art series.
His delicately rendered, relatively rare drawings and paintings--which American poet and art critic John Ashbery once called “half architecture, half air”--combine European with American traditions of postwar art. Spanning his career, more than 100 paintings on paper and three on canvas--many from the artist’s personal collection--will be on display March 13 to May 4, in Galleries 138-139.
This is the first solo museum exhibition in the United States for Bishop, arguably long overdue for the now 80-year-old artist.
“The exhibition of Bishop’s work is a real occasion,” said James Rondeau, of the Art Institute. “His lyrical works echo the flowering of American abstraction but also look forward to a truly synthetic style of painting in which incident and emotion are distilled and reshaped in nonrepresentational terms. Bishop, working quietly in Europe since the late 1950s, has long deserved such an extensive exhibition of his work.”
This exhibition brings together roughly 60 paintings and drawings from Bishop’s collection along with selections from collections in Germany, Switzerland, and the United States.
Additionally, the Art Institute will present a small selection of works on canvas, including two recently acquired paintings, Early (1967) and Untitled (1980).
The exhibition consists of approximately 100 works.
Bishop’s art emerges from early exposure to both Abstract Expressionism and a deep, sensitive study of European art. He has labeled himself an “Abstract Expressionist of the quieter branch.”
Working within and across seemingly divergent schools of painting, Bishop found lessons in each.
His approach to painting and drawing is marked by a poetic, reductionist tendency, with a palette that is sometimes, but not always precisely, monochromatic.
Early in his career, in the mid-1960s, Bishop painted his first large-format square paintings. He divided his canvases, which measure nearly six foot square, into progressively smaller units--halves, quarters, and eighths. To achieve saturated fields of color Bishop pioneered an unorthodox method of manipulating paint. After putting down pencil guidelines, the artist applied, with great precision, luminous skeins and pools of paint thinned with turpentine onto a stretched canvas laid flat on the floor, tilting them to control the flow of paint. This process allowed him to achieve subtle structure--often architectural, suggestive of a house or a building--within veils of finely saturated pigment. Over the years, the artist has shifted from working with large-scale canvas to mostly small paper supports. These works--often painted on irregular-size sheets of paper, with no fixed date assigned to their creation--continue Bishop’s subtle explorations of color and structure, allowing material and process to shape form rather than form dictating material.
Born in 1927 in Neosho, Missouri, Bishop studied history at Syracuse University from 1946 to 1950, fine arts at Washington University from 1951 to 1954 (attending Black Mountain College, studying with Esteban Vicente, in 1953), and art history at Columbia University from 1955 to 1956. He has lived in Europe, full-time and intermittently, since 1957, in quiet, modest seclusion from the stresses and pressures of the international art market. As a result of his expatriate status and infrequent exhibitions of limited works, Bishop’s achievements have not been fully integrated within the narratives of postwar American art. At the same time, these very factors--the freedom of isolation, distance from New York, and influence of foreign aesthetics--reveal the conditions fundamental in cultivating Bishop’s originality.
INSIDE – LETTER TO THE EDITOR
Parks chief: soccer field deal was open, not shrouded in secrecy
Over the past year, there has been much discussion regarding the construction of a new field in Lincoln Park. Despite our efforts to provide the public and the media with an accurate account of details leading up to the project, misinformation spouted by a few individuals with personal agendas continues to circulate. We would like to take this opportunity to clarify details surrounding the project, the partnership behind it and its impact on the quality of life for Chicago residents.
Among the mischaracterizations and distortions reported was the suggestion that the agreement was shrouded in secrecy and conducted behind closed doors. Nothing could be further from the truth. The matter was heard at a board meeting held October 25, 2006.
Also on the meeting agenda that day were the multi-year Lollapalooza license agreement and the long-term lease of the Grant Park parking garages.
In fact, those issues received substantial media coverage in the Tribune, the Sun-Times and Crain’s Chicago Business. In fact, representatives of Friends of the Parks spoke at the meeting on both Lollapalooza and garage lease matters but raised no issues about the athletic field agreement.
Notice of the meeting was posted publicly, in accordance with the Illinois Open Meetings Act, in the same manner that the Park District has been posting its meetings for decades.
Representatives of the District also participated in community meetings sponsored by both the Latin School and Gold Coast neighbors; while administrators from the Latin School met with Alderman Vi Daley’s staff several times, and attended meetings with the Lincoln Park Advisory Council and Friends of the Park.
With construction costs at $2 million dollars, and usage of less than 20% of the available time, Latin School will be paying the Chicago Park District over $222 per hour for the use of the field. That makes this location the priciest within the Chicago Park District system, and far from the sweetheart deal our critics have claimed.
Partnerships such as these are vital.
In recent years, the District has faced the challenge of building new and renovating dated facilities with limited resources. Despite these obstacles, we remain firm in our commitment to enhance our parks and meet the recreational needs of Chicago residents. In today’s financial climate, budget deficits can be managed in one of three ways: by raising taxes, cutting programs, or being creative.
As General Superintendent of the Chicago Park District, I have pledged to seek creative means wherever possible to avoid the need to raise taxes or cut programs. The partnerships that we have forged with park advisory councils, elected officials, organizations and corporations have been instrumental in our progress.
Finally, the Chicago Park District’s agreement is not a “lease” but a permit which, among other things, means Latin has no assignable rights to the field and does not retain any exclusivity during the term of the agreement, excepting the specific permitted times. This permit holds with it the identical right and privileges that 300 public and private schools currently have over Chicago Park District property during their specified and permitted times of use.
The Lincoln Park field is one of five being constructed in Chicago parks, each with the financial assistance of community partners.
The advance permit fees will allow the Chicago Park District to divert capital project funds to other communities in need and provides Chicago youth with an additional arena to learn, play and enjoy the games of soccer, field hockey, lacrosse, and more.
Upon completion, the Lincoln Park field will operate by the same standards as any other Chicago athletic field across the city. It will be available to all Chicago residents for permitted play as well as general public use.
While a small number of Lincoln Park residents have criticized the Chicago Park District’s creative approach to funding much needed projects, most Chicagoans, from communities across the city understand the need for public-private partnerships and appreciate the lasting impact they make on our parks.
Tim Mitchell
Chicago Park District CEO
Northcenter Egg Hunt March 22
The Northcenter Chamber of Commerce, in conjunction with Ald. Gene Schulter, 47th Ward, is hosting the 21st Annual Spring Egg Hunt. Families are invited to come to Town Square for a morning of activities. The day begins with an egg hunt at Northcenter businesses as well as in Town Square.
Afterwards, there will be a party in Town Square with the Easter Bunny, refreshments and the Spring Ahead Hat/Headwear Contest. Get out the markers and glue gun! Any decorated head-wear is eligible including helmets, ball caps and bonnets. Prizes will be awarded for age groups three and younger, four to eight years of age and nine and older. The event is slated for 11 a.m. March 22 at Northcenter Town Square, 4100 N.
Damen Avenue.
INSIDE EDUCATION
New director for child care site
Kids Hope United has named Connie Acevedo as the new center director of Kids Hope Child Development Center, 5244 N. Lakewood Ave.
Acevedo joins the center after working at Christopher House for 15 years as a site director, managing the operations of a child care center, participating in budget development, and implementing and managing all program components offered at the site.
Previously, she worked as a kindergarten/pre-school teacher at Bridgeport Child Development Center and the head pre-school teacher at Grace Church Pre-School. She also is a founding member of El Hogar del Niño, a day care center, where she worked as the bilingual head teacher for 16 years.
Acevedo received a Bachelor of Arts from Northeastern University and is certified by the American Montessori Society.
School: enrollment up due to added technology use
Early enrollment at St. Matthias Transfiguration School has resulted in full classes with waiting lists for the preschool and Kindergarten; officials say the increased demand is a result of added tech use in classrooms.
“Our early childhood enrollment numbers are a testimony to the great programs being offered at the school,” said Principal Sandria DeSapio. “Our teachers, in preschool and in the entire school, challenge the children to be active and happy learners. They do a tremendous job.”
St. Matthias Transfiguration, 4910 N. Claremont Avenue, is a technology leader in the archdiocese. Students in grades six through eight have individual laptop computers. The school has six Promethean interactive white boards. Children use ECTO, an online learning community, for homework assignments.
The fourth through eighth grades use PowerPoint and Excel in their studies. Portions of each day are dedicated to working in teams to solve problems.
“Through using technology and project based learning, our students are well-prepared for high school,” DeSapio said. “We find that our graduates are confident, critical thinkers with the skills to succeed.”
Students at St. Matthias Transfiguration go on to the high schools of their choice. Last year, St. Matthias Transfiguration attended St. Ignatius College Prep, St. Scholastica Academy, Lane Tech and St. Benedict High School, among others.
Red carpet ceremony held at school
Audubon Elementary School students walked the red carpet in an early morning assembly for the school’s sixth annual “Pulitzer” Prize Award ceremony” Feb. 29 at the school 3500 N. Hoyne Avenue.
Pairs of student presenters announced winners in 16 categories including Best Personal Memoir, Best Historical Fiction, Best Poetry, Best Science Fiction and Best Illustration in an Academy Award-style ceremony.
The opening ceremony featured a K-4 mixed pairs dance routine; a Lifetime Achievement Award for dedication to Audubon was presented to outgoing LSC Chair Linda McBride. Audubon students have spent the past two months working on their short stories, essays and poems; all nominees and presenters were in formal attire.
Other “celebrity” attendees include representatives from the school’s partners, Northeastern Illinois University, Redmoon Theater group, Roscoe Village Neighbors Association, and Beth Beatty from 47th Ward Alderman Eugene Schulter’s office who presented a $2,500 check to Audubon from Cubs Cares and the Alderman.
Student club studies global warming
With escalating concern over global temperatures and climate changes, more and more people are beginning to contemplate the environmentally detrimental consequences of their current lifestyles. But what are local high schools doing in order to increase awareness of the state of our planet’s health?
This year, Gordon Tech High School’s Environmental Club has initiated several activities aimed at diminishing inefficient activities or routines and promoting environmentally beneficial behavior. In order to identify and categorize wasteful activities, club members conducted a school-wide Air and Energy Audit.
Additionally, students organized a recycling program in order to reduce the waste output of paper. At the end of the year, several club members will participate in the Envirothon, a citywide event aimed at raising awareness of climate conditions at the high school, 3600 N. California Avenue.
In addition to that, on March 7 Gordon Tech High School hosted a school-wide blood drive. The blood drive was open to students who are 16 to 18 years old. About 150 students were expected to take part.
School system files pension fund lawsuit
On Thursday, March 13 the Chicago Public Schools filed suit against the State of Illinois in the Chancery Division of the Circuit Court of Cook County over the “unconstitutional funding scheme” for the pension fund that covers Chicago’s public school teachers.
The lawsuit seeks to end the inequitable system the state has used to provide funding to the Chicago Teachers’ Pension Fund.
Because the state has not met its obligation to adequately support the Chicago Teachers’ Pension Fund, money that could be used to in the classroom has been diverted to cover pension costs, and that has resulted in an unfair burden on Chicago taxpayers, say Chicago Public School officials.
School legal officials say they wouldn’t have filed the suit unless it was absolutely necessary. They have fought about these funds in past years and believe the time “is now ripe” for success on gaining proper pension funding from the state.
Police districts get new commanders
Major Shakeup
New Chicago Police Supt. Jody Weis announced last Thursday a major restructuring in the top command ranks of the police department.
It has been described as the biggest high-rank personnel overhaul in the police department’s history.
Sixteen district commanders were promoted; 8 district commanders were re-assigned or remain in place and one district commander is expected to be named in an acting capacity.
Community Relations and Internal Affairs are two key areas where Weis is committed to improving.
South-side Commander Lynette Helm (2nd ) was named Chief of CAPS and will be responsible for establishing community and neighborhood programs to enhance the Chicago Alternative Policing Strategy (CAPS) Office reporting to the First Deputy Superintendent.
Area 2 Deputy Chief Tina Skahill was named Chief of Internal Affairs and will report to the Deputy Superintendent of the Bureau of Professional Standards.
Former Assistant Deputy Superintendent of Internal Affairs, Debra Kirby, was also named General Counsel to the Office of the Superintendent.
“I have been impressed by the talent within the Chicago Police Department, and with the assistance of my new team of Deputy Superintendents, the selection process was focused and deliberate in choosing proven leaders,” said Weis. “Many of these faces are familiar to the rank and file as well as the community, and I believe that they are solid choices that will no doubt enhance the department’s mission going forward,” he added.
INSIDE: LETTER TO THE EDITOR
Transferred police commander: replacement is highly experienced, conscientious
Recently, Superintendent of Police Jody Weis announced major changes in the police department including my re-assignment as Commander of the Area 3 Detective Division. Area 3 is comprised of districts in the northeast part of the city, specifically the 19th, 20th, 24th and, of course, the 23rd District.
Your new district commander, Kathleen Boehmer, is an extremely intelligent, highly experienced and conscientious police officer and is being transferred from her current position as the district commander of the 20th District, the district immediately adjacent to the north. Please welcome her as warmly as you did me over four years ago when I arrived here in the district.
It has been my honor and pleasure serving this wonderful community and it is with anticipation that I continue to serve the 23rd District, although in a different capacity. Please remember that it takes everyone in the community working together to make it a safer place. Every person has a role and responsibility.
The 23rd District police officers that work the street are out there 24 hours a day - 7 days a week and have done an outstanding job.
I thank them for their hard work and dedication and please remember to let them know the same when you see them on the street, at beat meetings, or community events. I know it means a lot to them. They are truly Chicago’s finest.
Lastly and most importantly, thank you for your hard work and partnership in fighting crime. Without you, we could not have achieved so much these past few years and cannot do so in the future.
Sincerely,
Gary Yamashiroya
Commander, Area 3 Detective Division
New residential street parking zone created
Starting July 1, all residential streets north of Addison Street, south of Irving Park Road and west of Broadway will be in the newest 383 Residential Permit Parking Zone, which is effective every day from 6 p.m. to 6 a.m.
In an effort to simplify the parking process for residents and by popular demand, the new area will have no need for the LV2 permits after July 1.
When renewing city stickers, residents of this area must also purchase a Zone 383 Residential Permit Parking Sticker for $25.
The Zone 383 RPP Sticker, like the City Sticker, is valid for one year, and must be renewed annually.
Both City Stickers and RPP Stickers must be purchased through the City Clerk’s Office on their website, in person on the first floor of City Hall, or by mail.
Temporary 383 Permits, valid for 24 hours, are available at 46th Ward Alderman Helen Shiller’s Community Service Office, 4544 N. Broadway. A book of 15 passes costs $5.
Cubs Night Game LV2 permits will not be valid in Zone 383 RPP areas, and Zone 383 RPPs will not be valid in LV2 areas.
New city special events director appointed
Mayor Richard Daley last week appointed Megan McDonald as the Executive Director of the Mayor’s Office of Special Events. She had served as the department’s Acting Executive Director since last March.
The Office of Special Events is responsible for creating, programming and managing large scale free events for the City of Chicago.
These events range from family focused events to sporting events to music festivals and cultural performances.
“Megan brings experience, ability and enthusiasm to this position,” Daley said. “She has done a fine job for the past year as Acting Executive Director and I’m confident she will keep the department moving forward with its important task of managing events that drive tourism, entertain Chicagoans, bring people together and help build a greater sense of community.”
As Director, McDonald will manage day to day operations of the office, which produces more than 20 events annually and provides technical assistance to hundreds of private and civic events taking place in the city.
She also will work closely with Chicago’s corporate community, which sponsors many large-scale and small-scale special events throughout the year.
McDonald, 32, re-joined the Office of Special Events in December, 2006, as First Deputy Director, having worked there from November 2000 to November 2002 as an event manager in the Sports Development Department.
From 2002 to 2006, she served as Director of Lakefront Operations for the Chicago Park District. In that role, she was responsible for daily operations and maintenance of the city’s 26 miles of lakefront property - including 18 miles of lakefront trail, 48 lakefront parks, nine harbors and 29 lakefront beaches.
From 1999 to 2000, she was a project manager for the National Conference of State Legislators, and from 1998 to 1999, she worked for the Metropolitan Pier and Exposition Authority as supervisor of its Student Ambassador and Internship programs.
She grew up on the city’s South Side and is a graduate of St. Ignatius College Prep. She holds a Bachelor of Arts degree
from Fairfield University, Fairfield, Connecticut.
New chance offered for property value reassessments
The Cook County Board of Review acted on a request recently by Mayor Richard Daley to give every property owner in Chicago who believes the assessed value of their property has fallen the opportunity to appeal their 2006 assessment for the 2007 tax year.
In a news conference held at Garfield Park Field House, 100 N. Central Park Av., the mayor said he had provided Board of Review Commissioners Joseph Berrios, Larry Rogers and Brendan Houlihan with data showing that residential property in Chicago may have decreased in value for assessment purposes today compared with two years ago when property in Chicago was last assessed.
“For years I’ve argued that Cook County’s property tax system is broken and puts property owners who are struggling to make ends meet both in good economic times and bad at a disadvantage,” Daley said.
“That’s why, in these tough economic times and even with the steps we taking, I believe our leaders in Cook County can be even more aggressive when it comes to protecting struggling homeowners and businesses. So my staff worked with the Board of Review and its staff to determine whether the Board can be part of the solution for our hard pressed home and business owners soon, not some time down the road,” the Mayor said.
The window of opportunity for property owners to file their assessments through the Cook County Assessor’s Office has expired in the city for the 2007 tax year.
“Obviously, as the nation’s economy has slowed and the foreclosure crisis has grown, property values have gone down for many people,” Daley said.
For example, the data he gave the Board, provided by the Chicago Association of Realtors, show that in the last two years the sale price of single family homes in the Englewood community have decreased by 13 percent and in the Belmont-Cragin neighborhood by 6 percent.
During the same time period, the sale price of multi-unit dwellings in West Garfield Park decreased by 13 percent, in Portage Park by 6 percent and in Brighton Park by 6 percent.
“We’re gratified that the Board is taking this important first step and granting a special assessment appeals period for property owners,” Daley said.
“Because the Board of Review has agreed to our request, we’ll notify property owners soon about the steps they need to take to appeal their assessment,” he said.
The request for the special appeals period is another in a series of proposals Daley has put forward in the last several weeks to reform and make Cook County’s system of property tax assessments fair and more predictable for property owners.
Recently, he named a group of leading Chicagoans to advise him on the overall issue of property tax assessments and make recommendations for long term reform of Cook County’s assessment system. It is led by Andrew Mooney, Executive Director of the Local Initiative Support Corporation and Theodore Swain of Gould and Ratner.
He has asked that the panel identify the components of establishing an annual assessment factor for Cook County for homes and businesses alike -- and to suggest ways to protect the city’s renters from the trickle-down effects of higher assessments.
Daley again called on the Illinois General Assembly to amend the 7 percent property tax cap legislation that it extended last year. The cap has provided relief for homeowners for the last four years.
“Reforming the assessment system is a complex challenge and as we move forward there will be many groups opposing us. But, we have to try,” Daley concluded.
Hospital elects medical officers
Saint Joseph Hospital physicians recently elected new medical staff officers
Jack Lyons, M.D., of Uptown has been elected medical staff president. Dr. Lyons, board-certified in diagnostic radiology and nuclear medicine, joined Saint Joseph’s medical staff in 1999. He has a medical degree from the College of Medicine at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign. He completed his residency and a fellowship at Rush-Presbyterian St. Luke’s Medical Center, now Rush University Medical Center.
Elected vice president was Cathleen Watt, M.D., a board-certified physician in anesthesiology and internal medicine. Dr. Watt, who resides in Lincoln Park, joined the medical staff in 1999. She received her medical degree from the University of Iowa, Carver College of Medicine. She completed her residency and a fellowship at Northwestern Memorial Hospital in Chicago.
Raynelda Hidalgo, M.D., a board-certified obstetrician/gynecologist, was elected secretary-treasurer. A Lincolnwood resident, Dr. Hidalgo received her medical degree from Loyola University Chicago, Stritch School of Medicine in Maywood. She completed her residency at Saint Joseph Hospital. Dr. Hidalgo joined Saint Joseph’s Medical staff in 1995.
They will serve two-
year terms.
Open space included in Northcenter senior campus
As a part of the new Senior Campus at the intersection of Western Avenue and Irving Park Road, a half-acre of new open space will be created featuring benches, ornamental lighting, landscaping, and a fountain.
In addition, a pocket park at Oakley and Belle Plaine Avenues will be created. A portion of the funds for this project have come from Open Space Impact fees paid by developers who have built new residential projects in the 47th Ward.
TACH Development Company, the non-profit project developer, will build the park and then convey the property over to the City.
This development is a part of an ongoing community-based process to build a Senior Campus that meets the needs of both 47th Ward Seniors and the surrounding neighborhood.
Alderman Gene Schulter hosted a community meeting regarding the development of this open space on April 22, 2006.
During this meeting, plans were presented to the community about both the main green space and the park.
Beginning in 2000, Schulter brought together a collection of non-profit organizations, including TACH, to formulate plans and develop the Northcenter Senior Campus.
Alderman Schulter is thrilled to see this new green space come to the 47th Ward.
“The seniors of our community deserve a beautiful space to enjoy being outside and connecting to the community around them. Not only will this open space serve as a great entry point into the Northcenter neighborhood, it’s also going to provide a nice place for everyone in the neighborhood to come together.”
The City Council’s Committee on Parks and Recreation overwhelmingly approved the development of the new open space.
Lil’ Mustangs Summer Camp
St. Matthias Transfiguration School, 4910 N. Claremont Ave., will hold its first summer camp June 3 to July 9, providing a full day of learning to children ages 3 to 8.
Lil’ Mustangs Summer Camp provides a nurturing and fun environment that encourages discovery through exploration, individuality and a positive self image as a child of God.
Children in three groups, Pinto (Ages 3-4), Palomino (Ages 5-6) and Appaloosa (Ages 7-8) will have time dedicated to Drama, Art, Physical Education and Spanish each day as well as outdoor play time on our private play lot. The four weekly camp themes will be: Movement, Exploring My Community, Animals/Insects and Undersea/Ocean.
Once a week, the children will go on a field trip related to our theme.
Early registration is $200/week or $750 for 4 weeks. Regular registration (after March 15) is $225/week or $850 for 4 weeks.
Registration fee is non-refundable after May 1.
Children may bring their own lunch or purchase lunch through our food service. Before and aftercare are available for an additional fee.
Call the school for more information, 773-784-0999.
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