December --- February 2018/19 TowerTalk News By and For the Condominium Community

In Our Parks Trail separation means providing one Second, if you haven’t walked or biked Lakefront Trail Revisited lane or path for walkers and another for the trail south of downtown, you’re miss- faster traffic, mainly bicycles. Here at the ing something quite lovely. Space is by Sheldon Atovsky & Bob Shamo northernmost end, the trail has now plentiful and the city has worked hard to been widened enough to allow separate make it inviting and safe. Walkers and marked lanes for each. This particular cyclists use separate paths as the trail stretch also illustrates how the entire winds through the recently-completed length of the trail is now navigable at Burnham Nature Conservatory. There is night thanks in part to tripling the num- public art sculpture, a new harbor, mari- ber of historically accurate lampposts, as na and playground at 31st Street, as well seen in the photo at the lower left. as several beaches with restrooms and concessions. Directly east of Park Tower, at the Berwyn underpass, the trail splits. Cyclists heading south use the original asphalt, while walkers are directed to boasts an open and public lake- newly-poured concrete adjacent to the beach. This split is maintained south of front, one of the most beautiful in the Foster Avenue; cyclists are asked to ride United States. Parallel to the lakeshore, a new path which is closer to the lake but east of Lakeshore Drive, runs an 18½ and safer because it incorporates exist- mile Lakefront Trail that provides fresh ing underpasses at Wilson and Montrose. air and an unsurpassed view to walkers, runners, cyclists, skateboarders, and all These, then, are the two approaches to This story continues on page 10 . Go to manner of outdoor enthusiasts. Estimates trail separation: Widen the trail with an- www.ptcondo.com/news to read in color are that 100,000 people use the trail on other lane and link to suggested website s and email a busy summer day, with 30,000 cyclists where city addresses. riding it to and from work -- so many, in parkland is fact, that the trail can be a bit dicey on scarce, or busy days. add a second Inside This Issue path as space Two multiyear improvement projects are permits. Holiday Donations ……………………………... 2 making the trail safer and a better fit for those who use it. The Trail Separation In one configuration or the other, the Social Committee Update ……………….... 3 Project is being completed as we go to trail continues to the city where it is Chicago becomes the “Second City” ... 4 press. The Navy Pier Flyover is scheduled about to be altered dramatically by the to wrap in 2019, but a large portion of it Navy Pier Flyover -- more on that in a Terry Gorman, Park Tower Profile ..... 6 is promised by the end of the year. moment -- then on to 71st street where it ends at the South Shore Cultural Center. Assorted Committee Reports …………... 7 Sheldon and his partner, Terry Gorman, Welcome Aboard / Best wishes ……….. 8 ride the trail regularly on their tandem Health Club Report ………………………….... 9 bike and offer here a couple suggestions. First, where the trail separates, please Assessment Gladly Paid ……………...….. 10 use the correct path. When all is finished Summary of Sales & Leases, 2018 …… 11 and appropriately marked, there should be no confusion as to which is for walk- Directory & Dates to Remember ……… 12 ers and which for cyclists.

Holiday Appreciation Remembering Our Own and Helping Nearby Neighbors in Need by Frank Muldowney An unassuming storefront just steps when school starts in the fall, and chil- from Park Tower conceals a remarka- dren’s toys are distributed during the ble community service that operates holidays. day-in, day-out with little or no fanfare. Care for Real accomplishes all this with Care for Real distributes a mind- only five full-time employees but doz- bending one million pounds of food ens of unpaid volunteers. Lyle stated Park Tower is alive! It lives and each year to 30,000 people a month. that 92 cents of every dollar raised goes breathes, has a central nervous system, directly to aid, only 8 cents to over- skeleton and skin. Keeping it healthy and head. Monetary donations are welcome humming are, of course, Park Tower’s 32 via www.careforreal.org A $5 cash dona- employees. Most of us nod and smile at tion will feed a person for a week! the ones we see the most; we may even Karen Feller, volunteer coordinator, know their names, at least those who’ve By one estimate, 70 million seniors will mentioned that her charges already given us a personal assist when needed. be living in poverty by 2030. Lyle Allen, include Park Tower residents. She would executive director of CFR, affirmed a But once a year we can do a little more: love to have more, even if for just sever- substantial increase of seniors asking contribute to the Employee Holiday al hours a month. Contact Karen at for help, especially those on fixed in- Fund . Property manager Tim Patricio [email protected] oversees the fund, and in a recent con- comes, grandparents caring for grand- versation he explained how our contribu- children -- about 20% of its clients are tions are distributed. There are three families with children -- as well as factors, each of which accounts for one- single persons and the homeless. third of a given employee’s share: Care for Real considers those it assists • Just being a PT employee to be clients, and most of those clients participate in the food distribution pro- • Length of tenure (some have worked gram. There are canned goods to be here three decades or more) sure, but also fresh fruits and vegeta- • Responsibilities of that employee’s bles, meat, milk and many other nutri- particular position tious foods that would otherwise be But there is a caveat Tim wants us to missing from their diets. Pet food is consider. Beginning this year, tax will be also in great demand. The elderly treas- Lyle Allen, executive director, with volunteer, deducted prior to distribution. In the ure their pets and would otherwise Francisco Villa past, employees were expected to them- willingly sacrifice to feed them. All in all, what a wonderful way to lev- selves declare the amount of tax owed. Organized collection and distribution erage a small amount of one’s time or This change in procedure will reduce by procedures are essential. On the collec- money into a program that has a power- about 30% the amount each employee tion side, the Greater Chicago Food De- ful impact on our community. would otherwise receive at distribution. pository trucks in government surplus The change also adds a procedural step, and greatly-discounted items. CFR As the holidays approach, PT residents so residents are asked to please submit drives its three vans to pick up sched- will find clothes donation boxes at the contributions by Friday, December 14, uled donations from Mariano’s, Jewel doorman's desk and near the Contributions are welcome from tenants and other food retailers. And individu- Management Office. as well as Owners. Checks can be als, churches and similar groups help, Care for Real is located on the east side dropped off at the Management Office, too, by dropping off acceptable food of Sheridan Road, between Park Tower made out to Park Tower but designated and clothing -- repurposing clothing and Tedino’s Pizzeria. for the fund. Owners have another option being another of CFR’s core missions. Donations are also accepted at the rear -- to direct Management to add a one- (Sweaters and warm outer wear are of the building, across the driveway from time amount to their next monthly as- particularly appreciated now that cold the exit doors adjacent to Park Tower’s sessment. weather is arriving.) Management Office. Donation hours are Tim made it a point to say that our em- Having arrived, food is then shelved or 9:00 am to 3:30 pm weekdays and 9:00 ployees greatly appreciate the recogni- refrigerated awaiting distribution by am to 12:30 pm Saturdays. tion and, in fact, the gift itself. As their volunteers, and clothing is sorted, A list of acceptable food, clothing and leader, he sends his appreciation to stacked or placed on hangers. Specialty small household items are at those who choose to contribute. items such as bookbags are available www.careforreal.org/about-us/contact-us/

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Committee Focus More Done, More to Come Social Committee People -to -People Lifts Off!

Early in October, about 20 people met to discuss the People-to-People project -- that is, small groups of Park Tower residents Towards the end of September, your meeting occasionally Social Committee sponsored a Special to share common interests. The interest Edition TGIF honoring Sue and Jim Kim, areas identified so far are listed below and retiring after 37 years of service looking we are open to more. after our Dry Cleaners/Delivery Room. Board & Card Games Bingo, Backgammon, Canasta, Dominoes, Mah Jong, Poker, Scrabble Community Concern Current events, Intergenerational wom- en’s support, Gardening in the park, Park Tower renters group, Redline-Berwyn & Bryn Mawr rebuilds, Positive spirituality and prayers for peace Arts Appreciation In-house listening to music recordings or performances, Preview films being con- sidered for Movie Nights, Offsite attend- ance at concerts, lectures, films, etc. Physical Fitness Thanks to Betty Terry-Lundy and Mike Magliane for the photos. Ballroom dancing, Belly dancing, Biking, We were thrilled with the turnout. seem to work well for these showings, Chicago trails, Running, Tai Chi, Regular 140+ residents stopped by to wish them and we’re still experimenting with show walking, Water aerobics, Yoga, Chair Yoga well, and many also helped with prepa- times, food/refreshment offerings. Medical Support rations. Board president Michael Parrie Sheldon Atovsky, chair spoke eloquently of the couples’ dili- Alzheimer’s & dementia, Arthritis, Cancer gence, attention to detail, and friendly & chronic disease, End of life planning, Upcoming Social Calendar Physician assisted dying, Low & impaired manner over the years, then presented vision, Parkinson’s disease, Understand- them with a certificate of excellence December 7 (Friday) …. Holiday Cheer ing & organizing medical bills and led them to make the first cut in a 5:30 to 7:30 pm, Lobby Lounge colorful cake created in their honor. Written Word January 12 (Saturday) …. Movie Night Book Club, Writing for TowerTalk Sue and Jim have asked me to thank all Kids-focused animation film TBA who attended, and especially those who Time & Pizza details TBA, Party Room Computer/Digital Assistance made it a point, either at the TGIF or February 3 (Sunday) Super Bowl Party One-time instructional since, to speak with them personally. By Management & Maintenance The doorman has People-to-People interest Movie Nights returned with The Sound Time & Details TBA, Party Room cards for any who missed the meeting but of Music in October and Hopscotch in would like to join a group. Fill out a card November. Attendance varied, but the February 24 …. Academy Awards Party and drop it into the slot at the doorman’s equipment worked flawlessly, and the As last year, w/related activities desk. Or, contact me at films were well received. Saturdays Time & Details TBA, Party Room [email protected]

333 Our Neighborhood Past, Present & Future (now the corner of Michigan and Chicago Episode Four - Chicago Becomes the Nation’s Avenues) stopped working. Ironically, the pumping station itself and the iconic Wa- “Second City” (1850 to 1900) ter Tower across the street were left un- by Frank Muldowney Chicago also housed the Midwest’s larg- damaged -- among the few structures to est Confederate prisoner of war jail. survive. Rain on October 10 helped Chicago, sitting on Camp Douglas quench the fire, which by then had burned all the way north to Fullerton Avenue. In the shore of Lake was located on all, 300 people were killed and 100,000 Michigan, was an Chicago’s South left without shelter. insignificant player Side, near the on the U.S. stage in lake and be- [“A disaster to end all disasters,” it was 1850. But by 1900 it tween 31st and said. Almost entirely overlooked by the had grown from 35th streets. press was the massive Peshtigo Fire that 40,000 people in also started on October 8 in nearby Wis- 1850 to 1.7 million, The Chicago Fire - 1871 consin. It is the deadliest wildfire in Amer- mainly by annexa- ican history, destroying an area 50% larger tion, and has since than the state of Rhode Island and killing been known as the 1,500 to 2,500 people.] Second City, that is. Chicago began rebuilding immediately, Growth 1850 (circle) to second only to New 1900 (curved line) and within a few years we were again on York City. our way to becoming the Second City.

Lincoln Park – 1850’s Beginnings of Edgewater - 1885 The history of Lincoln Park goes all the way back to the late 1840’s and 1850’s. In In 1871, Chicago was humming along, a 1843 an area near North Avenue was des- growing boom town -- 300,000+ people ignated City Cemetery. A few years later, and 59,500 structures spread over some Cemetery Park was added. Then, due in 23,000 acres. But because of the rapid part to cholera outbreaks, city council growth, speed of construction was val- added all the burial grounds north of ued over quality; many structures were North Avenue, allowing many graves to sub-standard and mostly wood. be relocated. In 1865 this entire area was The fire started the morning of October 7 renamed Lincoln Park in honor of our re- in a barn in the near southwest part of cently-assassinated president. Thus, from the city. Legend has it (never proved) a small beginning Lincoln Park has grown that a cow kicked over a lantern. Given to a gigantic park more than seven miles extremely dry conditions, those wooden long, stretching from Chicago’s north lake homes and buildings were ideal kindling. shore all the way to Hollywood, and cre- The fire spread quickly to nearby build- ating a handsome back yard for our own ings and was out of control by the time Park Tower building. the fire department responded. A strong southwest wind further scattered burn- CIVIL WAR – 1861 TO 1865 ing embers toward the heart of the city. By the time the city annexed Lakeview in Chicago played an important role in the 1889, that neighborhood’s far northeastern By 11:30 am, the near southwest and United States Civil War, which started on portion -- where Park Tower is located some downtown buildings had been April 12, 1861 and lasted until May 13, now -- was already known as Edgewater, reduced to ashes. The fire then leapt the so named by the prominent developer, 1865. The northern part of Illinois was Chicago River and proceeded to devas- John Lewis Cochran. Edgewater was early anti-slavery and contributed large num- tate structures further north, even neigh- to have electricity, and Cochran soon built bers of soldiers to the Union cause. But borhoods bordering the lake shore. Left a portion of electric railway along Broad- the southern part of the state, abutting In its wake were piles of bricks, burnt out way to encourage further development. Kentucky and Tennessee, was largely homes and factories. Hundreds of people (Later, this was folded into the CTA and sympathetic to the Confederate cause. even fled into Lake Michigan to avoid still serves us as part of the Red Line.) Chicago itself was a staging area for dis- the flames. By the late 1890s, Edgewater was regard- tributing supplies to the Union armies. As Attempts to fight the fire ceased the fol- ed as one of Chicago’s most prestigious a result, the city was a hotbed of spying, lowing morning, October 8, when the neighborhoods. All along the lakefront for both the Union and the Confederacy. pumping station at Pine Street

444 large mansions were constructed, one for 20th century building methods such The scale of the undertaking was im- next to the other. A luxury hotel, the as Park Tower’s “curtain wall” construc- mense, to say the least. 46 nations partic- , was built right tion. ipated in the exposition, and nearly 26 on the lake. The Edgewater Beach Apart- million visitors took in the exhibits, rides Another development around this time ments, which has landmark status, stands and entertainment during the event’s six enabled these tall : the Otis today at the corner of Sheridan Road and month duration. Located on 600 acres of elevator. Prior to Otis’ invention in Bryn Mawr. land in Jackson Park -- site of the future 1854, buildings rarely reached even Barack Obama Presidential Center -- it First Steel Structure , seven stories because higher floors with featured canals, lagoons, 200 buildings, Home insurance Building - 1885 all those stairs would have failed to the largest Ferris wheel in the world at attract tenants. Chicago was home to the time, as well as innumerable other the first skyscraper, World’s Columbian Exposition - 1893 attractions. Sadly, only two of those build- designed by William ings remain today: the Field Museum, Le Baron Jenny and near the lake and Roosevelt Road, and the completed in 1885. Museum of Science and Industry, near the The Home Insurance lake at 57th Street. Building, since demol- New York City also badly wanted to host ished, was the first the Exposition. But Chicago was deter- tall building to be mined, loud and brash -- to the extent supported both inside and out by a fire- that the press complained we were like proof structural steel and metal frame “bags of wind.” So it was not those fero- and to include reinforced concrete as a Chicago ushered out the 19th century cious winds off the lake, but rather brag- building material. with the spectacular World’s Columbian gadocio that earned us our second nick- By the time New York got its first steel- Exposition, also known as the World’s name, the Windy City! frame skyscraper in 1889, Chicago had at Fair. The name reflected its purpose, to ----- least five -- as well as a reputation for celebrate the 400th anniversary of the Frank is a member of the Newsletter advanced design known as the discovery of the New World by Committee and author of this “Chicago School” that paved the way Christopher Columbus. continuing series.

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Park Tower Profile Tests were mostly essay questions and you Terry Gorman, Resident With a Story to Tell had to get a perfect score to graduate. When I got a score of 92 on the final aba- by Terry Gorman orchestras, chorus, and classes in music cus test, the teacher said, “Great, you would history and piano tuning. Among my give 8 taxpayers per day the wrong an- fondest memories are learning the swer!” He asked the state to pay for one Scottish ballad, “Barbara Allen,” probably more month of training, and I wound up in fifth grade, and singing carols in multi- with a score of 100. part harmony most every Christmas. My first posting was to IRS offices in Cleve- We blind kids moved freely around cam- land, Ohio. But having always wanted to pus performing in plays, wrestling, roller live in Chicago, I soon applied to be trans- skating, and not learning to use canes ferred and, true to form, took an overnight until 11th or 12th grade. By then we were Greyhound bus to my morning interview. acting like teenagers anywhere, raising a The Chicago IRS office had had a couple little hell occasionally and even nick- outstanding blind employees. That plus my naming our school “Braille Jail,” due to its solo bus ride and favorable interview got rules and regulations! me the coveted Chicago position. I was 26 Most long-time residents will recognize During one summer of high school I sold years old. Terry, the gentleman pictured above. Watkins Products door to door in Milwau- I held three positions at IRS in Chicago: Slim, erect, dark glasses, either navigating kee, carrying a kit of sample products and taxpayer service representative, taxpayer alone or on the arm of his partner, ringing doorbells. It was much safer to do service specialist and tax law specialist. Sheldon. that sort of thing in the 1960’s. The fresh This was work at a call site with about four air was great, as was the conversation Terry kindly agreed to be interviewed for hundred employees, some 15 of whom this profile piece but, no surprise to those with the women who, probably stunned, were blind and had come from the Arkan- of us who know him, he followed up with answered their doors! sas program. meticulous written responses. My notes I attended University of Wisconsin in pale by comparison, so what follows are Initially, the work involved answering basic Madison for two years but dropped out Terry’s own comments about his remarka- tax questions, referring to IRS publications because I couldn’t see exactly how it was ble life these past 70 years. [Editor] which were brailled for us or which we preparing me for a career. Thereafter, I brailled ourselves outside of working Back around the time I was born, hospitals worked in customer service at the Mil- hours. Later I handled more complex issues began installing incubators to save the waukee Journal/Sentinel followed by a and taught classes to other employees, lives of premature babies. Administering much longer stint at a National Industries some sighted, some blind. Eventually, my extra oxygen was part of the treatment and for the Blind factory in Milwaukee. until the dosage was eventually moderated, assignment required answering written several thousand “preemies” like myself Then, when I was about 22, I heard that inquiries on very technical issues and were inadvertently made blind. Wisconsin was sending blind people to answering them in writing -- always a Little Rock to be trained as IRS customer touchy issue and very carefully handled. The public schools in Manitowoc, Wiscon- service representatives, I asked for and “Gorman vs Regan,” (Donald Regan was sin were not equipped to teach blind chil- was granted that training, which turned dren, so beginning at age six I attended President Ronald Reagan’s Secretary of out to be extensive -- three months for Wisconsin School for the Visually Handi- Treasury) was a federal lawsuit that I blind trainees as opposed to three weeks capped in Janesville, a boarding school assembled on behalf of blind employees for sighted ones. about 150 miles from home. At first my dad seeking to have specialized electronic drove me, but by age nine I was taking There being no talking calculators in equipment installed in IRS offices. The suit Greyhound buses (with a transfer in 1973, I had to master the abacus (a sim- was successful and enabled blind employ- Milwaukee) for the seasonal commute to ple one pictured). ees to work at higher technical levels simi- and from school. Drivers would show me Now I had had lar to their sighted colleagues and to earn to a seat in the terminals, and when I heard a bit of experi- commensurate salaries. the departure announcement I would navi- ence in high gate to the area and board the bus. And, At age 58 I retired from IRS, with almost school with the yes, I learned to ask for help occasionally! 32 years of service. Having recently met abacus but Sheldon, my partner, it was an easy deci- My education in Janesville continued nothing like sion to make when the agency decided to through twelfth grade. It was good in some what the Little move its Chicago office to St. Louis. Look- surprising ways, music being one of them. Rock school ing back, IRS enabled me to continue the Piano lessons began in third grade, violin demanded. customer service work I had done years in fifth. There followed junior and senior 666 before, using computers and up-to-date Park Tower is a great place to live be- Carpeting & Light Fixtures technology, plus earn a middle class cause of its location near the Lakefront The durable flooring selected for the income and a lifetime government pension Trail, the buses and Red Line, Clark Package Room will also be installed -- in short, the American dream. Street’s many restaurants, and the com- this coming year in the hallways of 1P And retirement is enabling me to pursue munity of people who live here. I do have and 2P, then eventually in the service three passions. First, I volunteer for one simple request of residents who know elevator areas on all floors. me and want to be sociable: Please start Bookshare.org, scanning, proofreading and New light fixtures will be installed in off by telling me your name, as in “Hi correcting braille translations which are the 55th floor hallway -- one row of Terry, I’m ______!” then available to other Bookshare mem- similar fixtures per side of the hallway ----- bers. 145 books so far, and going strong! triangle. These are intended as sample The titles often reflect my interest in classi- Terry has lived at Park Tower since 1994. fixtures, and Owners are encouraged to cal music (two biographies on G. F. Handel) provide feedback about the ones they and LGBT issues ( Gay American History , by Committee Focus prefer. Replacements on all remaining Jonathan Katz, and titles not otherwise floors will be done in 2021-22, by Home Improvement available). which time the appropriate fixture will My second retirement pastime is bicycling. Package Room have been chosen. I've always loved it and bought my first Cable & Internet tandem in 1972 while in Madison. Sheldon As TowerTalk goes to press, the newly rebuilt Receiving Room, now the and I have bicycled some 27,000 miles The Board has voted unanimously in Package Room, is near completion. We since we began in 2007. Mostly we take favor of a resolution to accept the have contracted with Luxer One to man- the Lakefront Trail which runs south to recommendation of the Ad Hoc Com- age package deliveries. Both deliveries 71st street, but occasionally other routes mittee for Cable and Internet to pursue and pickups are via codes unique to like the Green Bay or North Branch Trail to renewal with RCN for bulk cable and each package, which are entered onto a the Chicago Botanical Garden. Internet service. Management is now screen just outside the room. Residents negotiating terms and conditions. Our (Sheldon and I have an understanding: will be informed of package arrivals by current contract with RCN expires I drag him out on the bike whenever I can, email or a phone text and then be able April, 2019. and he feeds me broccoli, cauliflower and to pick them up 24/7. Refrigeration is brussels sprouts. Exercise + diet are work- available for perishable items, as is a JUST IN The Condominium and Com- ing; we’ve both lost weight and feel great.) space for oversized packages. mon Interest Community Ombudsman My third passion is classical music. Person- Directly across from the Package Room Act requires that condo associations ally, I favor Baroque vocal music but are lockers, installed by Pressbox , for have clear written policies for resolv- together we attend a fair number of opera residents who want clothing profession- ing Owner complaints in place by and small ensemble concerts. Over the ally cleaned or laundered. Pickup is at January 1, 2019. Plans are to include a years I’ve collected and catalogued 6,500 or shortly after 8:00 am. Expect a two- draft with the budget mailing early in or so CDs. And digital streaming offers a day turn-around. For more info, go to December, then discuss it with Owners variety of radio stations including WFMT www.ptcondo/news in an open meeting prior to formal and a Finnish station I’m enthused about. acceptance by the Board.

777 Welcome Aboard Best Wishes Ryan Gest, Newest Doorman & Yvonne & Kay Patrik Janic, Assistant Chief Engineer Yvonne Sanchez and Kay Kroger -- by Jeff Hauser assistant property managers for busi- ness operations and office operations,

respectively -- resigned their positions this fall. In reply to Tower- Talk’s invitation, Yvonne wrote as follows: I have always wanted to live abroad and I feel that now is the perfect opportunity. I just recently paid off my student loans, but I would still like to continue my edu- cation. So why not out of the country! I will be living in Germany with my boy- friend, Paul, and starting with a German If Ryan Gest looks familiar to you, it’s Patrick, born and raised in Slovakia, course at Heidelberg University. Paul will because prior to joining our staff as over- moved to the USA when he was 9 years be working on his masters degree. night doorman, he worked here as a se- old. He grew up in suburban Norridge I will miss my colleagues and the curity guard. Important as they are, those and has been in Chicagoland ever since. residents. There was never a boring day guards are not Park Tower employees. He currently lives in Harwood Heights, at the management office! Rather, they work for a security firm where his passion is his own home. At under contract to Park Tower. present he is remodeling room-by-room Kay was uncertain of her Ryan was enjoying his work here at Park and taking his time. long-term plans but at Tower and, like all our security guards, the time of writing was Previously he worked with PTCA as a he would hold down the front desk from considering PhD pro- foreman with MPD construction, coordi- time-to-time when regular doormen took grams for the follow- nating day-to-day site activities for two their breaks. He had even filled in short- ing year. For now she riser projects and a couple other con- term after Robert E. Lee’s recent retire- has a position that al- tracting jobs here in the building. When ment. So when the overnight doorman lows her to work remotely from home. Management found out he was available, position was offered, Ryan was pleased we reached out to see if he’d be interested What I most value from working at Park to accept. in joining the team as the engineer’s Tower is the incredible management Ryan grew up in Chicago’s Cabrini Green right hand, to replace long-time employ- team. The office culture felt like family, housing complex and now lives in Aurora. ee Matt Brown. caring for one another personally but still Yes, the commute is a long one but expecting each other to do a good job. I’ll worthwhile, he feels, given the challenges Patrik enjoys traveling, snowboarding, certainly miss all of them. (My humorous and doing small construction projects he finds in his work: the “Grand Central Park Tower anecdotes just wouldn’t read Station” feel of signing visitors in and around his house. well in TowerTalk!) out, directing deliveries, writing the oc- casional work order and, in general, be- ing part of a large staff team. Pastimes include basketball and hiking the trails in parks and nature preserves. Interestingly, he and his girlfriend, Oliv- ia, love poetry and music, writing and sharing songs at area “open mic” nights. Ryan is an alert, engaged, and ambitious new employee. We wish him a long and happy tenure at Park Tower. ----- Jeff is a member of the Newsletter Committee. 888 Committee Focus • The 32 lighting fixtures surrounding • If you use the weights in the back of Health Club the pool will be replaced. We are the weight room, please remember to looking for appropriate fixtures at a put everything back when you are After many years in a reasonable price. done, especially any weights you put on the bars. Some folks may not be high-humidity and There are continuing concerns about able to lift as much weight as you and chlorine environment, rules violations in the Health Club, pri- will have difficulty removing them or renovations are need- marily those applying to guests, show- could possibly incur an injury. ed in the pool area of ers and equipment. The committee con- the Health Club. There sidered adding enough staff attendants • Please remember to keep control of may be minor inconvenience while to supervise all hours the club is open. weights and weight stacks, and not to work is progressing, but we will try to But this would require increasing dues, drop them back onto the rack after a keep it to a minimum. something we want to avoid. Therefore, lift. Over time, slamming weights back • Seven sliding windows will be we are emphasizing to club members down is harmful to the equipment. that they must comply with rules so as replaced -- three at the south end of • The sign-up system for cardio room to avoid the need for additional staff. the pool enclosure, and four on the equipment exists for the convenience Here are a few reminders: other sides for access to the outdoor of all members. Please stop at the deck and air circulation when • Each visitor/guest needs a Guest Pass. attendant’s desk to sign up before go- opened. This work will begin before These can be purchased at the time ing to the cardio room. Those with busy year’s end. of use or in advance .. and either at schedules can reserve time with a • The remaining 21 windows sur- the attendant’s desk or the Manage- phone call to the attendant. And just rounding the pool will be sealed and ment office. Guests cannot them- because a machine is available when permanently closed. selves be Park Tower residents. you start doesn't mean somebody isn’t • The jacuzzi platform structure will There is a limit of three guests at any signed up for it 10 minutes later. Sign be rebuilt and retiled, with timing of given time. Club members allowing a up and avoid conflicts! non-member to enter without a Guest the project yet to be finalized. Work ----- will be scheduled taking into ac- Pass are subject to a minimum fine of count the staff time required and $50 for EACH non-member or guest Ken Anderson, Board liaison other building projects. without a Guest Pass.

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From Our Readers Lakefront Trail, continued from page 1 For These Owners, An Assessment Gladly Paid Now to the Navy Pier Flyover. It will do for pedestrians and cyclists what upper A couple years ago • Health Club (subsidy) Lake Shore Drive does for motorists -- Owners Dan Johnston • Heating & air conditioning eliminate the congestion on lower Lake and Catherine Kestler Shore Drive, with the Chicago River • Hikers (car parkers) 24/7 sent along a list of facil- Bridge and intersections leading to Navy ities and services resi- • Insurance (common property and Pier. dents enjoy here at Park liability) The completed flyover will be 16 feet • Tower. We’ve updated it annually Landscaping & snow removal wide and 1,750 feet long. The portion to because every item – and no doubt • Laundry Room (subsidy) be opened yet this year begins with the some we haven’t thought of – is sup- • ramp at the Ohio Street Beach (pictured, ported in one way or another by Own- Lobby furnishings & décor in place for the past year but closed) and ers’ monthly assessments. • Lock out service (free when office continues alongside upper Lake Shore is open) A proposed 2019-20 budget will be Drive until exiting at lower Lake Shore arriving in mailboxes soon, to be • Maintenance 24/7 Drive just north of the Chicago River. discussed in an open Board Meeting • Market (subsidy) Next year, the flyway will be extended and then adopted by the Board. Are across the river where it will meet up • Newsletter these facilities and services -- available with the existing trail leading down to to Owners and tenants alike -- worth • Otis elevator maintenance the Chicago Yacht Club. your assessment dollar? • Package Room (rebuilt this year and • Bicycle Room (subsidy) modernized for delivery and pickup) • Cable & Internet including high • Real estate tax appeals (periodic) speed broadband (a separate uniform • Reserve fund (never had a special charge, otherwise like an assessment) assessment) • Doorman 24/7 • Rooftop deck & garden • Draper & Kramer onsite team • Security equipment & personnel (property manager, two assistant • Social Committee managers, office assistant, chief and So, there you have it, a vastly improved assistant chief engineers plus back- • Utilities in common areas Lakeshore Trail. How much does it add to office support) • Waste removal & recycling your quality of life? To the resale value of • Dry Cleaning and laundry pick up by • your unit? Water & sewer ----- commercial service via lockers near • Window washing (exterior) Sheldon is a member of the Package Room) • Work orders (materials & labor be- Newsletter Committee, Bob its chair. • Guest parking (subsidy) low market price) The online edition links to updates on the trail and flyover.

11101000 Our Condo Park Tower Unit Sales & Leases, January through October, 2018

Medium 1 -Bedroom Sales Studio Leases

(’02, ’05 Tiers) ('03, '07, '10, '12 Tiers) - Floor Tier Purchase Price Lower levels (floors 3 19)

30 05 $ 157,500 11 leased, averaging $1,148 - - 11 02 $ 155,000 Mid levels (floors 20 39)

08 02 $ 162,500 10 leased averaging $1,153 - 24 02 $ 175,000 Higher levels (floors 40 55)

54 05 $ 113,500 10 leased, averaging $1,228 ------37 05 $ 162,200 - Total 6 Medium 1 -Beds Sold Small 1 Bedroom Leases Average Price $ 129.950 (’08, ’09, ’14, ’15 Tiers) ------Lower levels (floors 3 -19) Studio Sales 6 leased averaging $ 1,358 Large 1 -Bedroom Sales ('03, '07, '10, '12 Tiers) Mid -levels (floors 20 - 39) (’04 Tier) Floor Tier Purchase Price 7 leased averaging $ 1,413 23 03 $ 103,000 Floor Tier Purchase Price Higher levels (floors 40 -55) 44 12 $ 114,900 30 04 $ 192,000 9 leased averaging $ 1,395 53 10 $ 109,000 54 04 $ 113,500 ------31 07 $ 119,500 Total 2 Large 1 -Bedrooms Sold Medium 1 -Bedroom Leases

23 12 $ 98,500 Average Price $ 152,750 (’02, ’05 Tiers) ------06 03 $ 92,500 Lower levels (floors 3 -19)

50 10 $ 120,000 2-Bedroom Sales 2 leases averaging $ 1,380

32 12 $ 123,000 Mid -levels (floors 20 - 39) (’01, ’06, ‘11 Tiers) 35 03 $ 107,000 4 leases averaging $ 1,431 Floor Tier Purchase Price 53 07 $ 115,000 Higher levels (floors 40 -55) 41 01 $ 271,000 Total 10 Studios Sold 1 leases averaging $ 970 08 06 $ 240,000 Average Price $ 110,280 ------09 01 $ 284,450 ------37 01 $ 265,000 Large 1 Bedroom Leases - Small 1 Bedroom Sales Total 4 2-Bedrooms Sold (’04 Tier) (’08, ’09, ’14, ’15 Tiers) - Average Price $ 265,113 Lower levels (floors 3 19) Floor Tier Purchase Price ------2 leases averaging $ 1,425 33 14 $ 131,000 Mid -levels (floors 20 - 39) Combined Unit Sales (none) 2 leases averaging $ 1,525 25 15 $ 124,000 ------24 15 $ 126,500 Higher levels (floors 40 -55) Commercial Sales (none) 12 14 $ 121,000 2 lease averaging $ 1,655 ------47 14 $ 125,000 ------54 14 $ 150,000 Data provided by 2-Bedroom Leases

22 09 $ 147,000 Management (’01, ’06, 11 Tiers) 20 15 $ 151,000 Within the Sales Report, units are Lower levels (floors 3 -19) 10 09 $ 110,000 listed in the order sold. To compare 6 leases averaging $ 1,907 48 15 $ 143,500 with the same period one year ago, Mid -levels (floors 20 - 39) 10 08 $ 129,000 go to www.ptcondo.com/news 1 leases averaging $ 2,100 42 08 $ 145,000 where Issues are listed in reverse Higher levels (floors 40 -55) 20 09 $ 155,000 chronological order in the right 3 leases averaging $ 2,467 Total 13 Small 1 -Bedrooms Sold column. ------Average Price $ 136,231 Combined Unit Leases (none) ------

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Building Contacts Dates to Remember Building Office 773-769-3250 Open to Owners only and may be canceled if no agenda

Fax 773-769-0047 Holiday Cheer Party 5:30 pm PT Lobby Dec 7 *Board of Directors Meeting 7:30 pm Party Room Dec 10 Doorman 773-769-3083 Movie Night (kids’ animation) TBA Party Room Jan 12 Garage 773-271-8859 *Board of Directors Meeting 7:30 pm Party Room Jan 14 *Board of Directors Meeting 7:30 pm Party Room Jan 28 Health Club 773-769-1513 Resident Forum 11:00 am Party Room Feb 2 RCN Service & Billing 312-955-2500 Super Bowl Viewing & Party TBA Party Room Feb 3 *Board of Directors Meeting 7:30 pm Party Room Feb 11 Academy Awards Viewing & Party TBA Party Room Feb 24 Mall/Business Contacts *Board of Directors Meeting 7:30 pm Party Room Feb 25 Cooking Class (sign up TBA) 11:00 am Party Room Mar 9 PTCA Market Suite 114 773.275-9130 * Board of Directors Meeting 7:30 pm Party Room Mar 11 HangOuts Dance IV TBA Party Room Mar 23 Aynot Enterprises, Inc. * Board of Directors Meeting 7:30 pm Party Room Mar 25 Suite 103 773-728-6486 Management Office Hours Dralyuk Real Estate Mondays, Tuesdays, Wednesdays & Fridays 8:00 am - 5:00 pm

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(Gift Certificate purchases) Holiday Schedule Suite 105 773-924-4438 Friday, Dec 21 Office closes at 1:00 pm for employee party Saturday, Dec 22 Office closed Shirley Roy, MD Monday, Dec 24 Office open 9:00 am to 3:00 pm (Internal Medicine) Tuesday, Dec 25 Office closed Christmas Day Suite 106 773-878-5151 Saturday, Dec 29 Office closed Monday, Dec 31 Office open 9:00 am to 3:00 pm Tuesday, Jan 1 Office closed New Year’s Day Park Tower Management Office ([email protected] ) Contributing to this Issue of TowerTalk Suite 107 773-769-3250 * Newsletter Committee Member Elizabeth Todorovic, Attorney Ken Anderson *Frank Muldowney Thanks to Paul Heck for (Real Estate) *Sheldon Atovsky Michael Parrie his participation this past year as Board Suite 110 773-271-2110 Terry Gorman Tim Patricio liaison to our committee! *Jeff Hauser *Bob Shamo (editor)

Stephen J. Feldman, Attorney TowerTalk is published four times a year (Sep-Nov, Dec-Feb, Mar-May, and Jun- (Criminal & DUI Defense) Aug) and delivered in black and white to Park Tower’s 700+ residential units. Sto- Suite 113 312-371-5522 ries are also posted in full color at www.ptcondo.com Currently we’re accepting photo-ready business card, quarter-page, and third-page ads for the Mar-May 2019 issue. To inquire, email [email protected] Roger Philip Feldman & Co. CPA

Suite 113 773-944-0664 BusCrd ($40) = 2½2½”” tall & 3¾3¾”” wide .. 1/4 page ($75)=5” tall & 3¾3¾”” wide .. 111/1///3333 pppapaaaggggeeee ((($($$$111122225555)))) === 333¼3¼¼¼ tttataaallllll &&& 777 ---⁄-⁄⁄⁄////”””” wwwiwiiiddddeeee

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