Rogers Park Community Council Honors Al Goldberg and Community Partners “Making an Impact” at 52Nd Annual Meeting and Gala

Home , Bernard Stone, Merle Reskin Theatre

HIGHLIGHTS THIS ISSUE Proposed New Shoreline . . . . .4 Victory Over Crime ...... 11 Special Schools Report . . . . .12 Senior News and Resources . .18 Sculpting for Joy ...... 30 Computer Training for All . . . .36 Volume 8, Issue 4 December, 2003 Published by the Rogers Park Community Council (circulation: 35,000) Para Articulos en Espanol, Vea a Pagina 26. Rogers Park Community Council Honors Al Goldberg and Community Partners “Making an Impact” at 52nd Annual Meeting and Gala

aking an Impact in Rogers Park", the 52nd Alan Goldberg, Citizen of the Year “M Annual Meeting of the Rogers Park Alan Goldberg moved to Rogers Park in 1968 as a Community Council, was a three-fold celebra- student of economics at UIC. Committed to social tion. Held November 1 at Croatian Cultural Center (2845 change, Goldberg has always used his talents (both W. Devon Ave). The meeting served to elect RPCC’s personally and professionally) to advocate for our board of directors for the 2004-2005 term and to cele- world’s future. After graduation, he followed his heart and brate 10 years of "Intervention, Information and drumming talents to became a member of the rock and Advocacy" for survivors of domestic violence. roll band "Yama and Karma Dusters", which was the Along with RPCC’s Victim Advocacy Support warm-up group for many anti-war demonstrations. Later, Program, several community-intervention partners were Goldberg established "Euphoria Blimp", a sound engi- recognized, including Illinois Attorney General Lisa neering company which (among other things) sponsored Madigan, Chicago Police Department (20th and 24th free concerts in Lincoln Park. Districts), Apna Ghar, Centro Romero, Council for Jewish By 1977, Goldberg had made a career change and Elderly, Friends of Battered Women and Their Children, joined a Rogers Park real-estate firm located at Morse and Horizons Anti-Violence Project. Also honored were and Greenview. In 1983, he joined Hallmark & Johnson Hispanic Housing Development Corporation (for its Properties, where today he serves as vice president spe- brand-new, affordable rental senior housing develop- cializing in commercial and investment development as ment) and real-estate professionals Marty Max and well as sale and leasing of commercial space. Al Goldberg, Rogers Park Community Council’s Connie Abels. In 1999, Goldberg happened across a real mission. Citizen of the Year 2003. Last but certainly not least, Al Goldberg was named A building at the southwest corner of Glenwood and RPCC’s 2003 Citizen of the Year for his tireless efforts to Morse with boarded storefronts—home to squatters, drug acquisition dollars have resulted in a wonderful home for promote our artistic community and serve those in need. dealing and pitbull fights—was desperately in need of businesses and artists. Over 150 guests joined RPCC to celebrate community renovation. Goldberg took on the task of rehabbing the Goldberg, who wanted to support Rogers Park’s and recognize the accomplishments of Goldberg and 11,500-square-foot building into "ArtSpace"—eight growing artistic community even further, soon founded other outstanding individuals and organizations during a ground-level stores with three live/work spaces and six the Glenwood Avenue Arts District. Its mission is to focus very special evening of dining, dancing and camaraderie. upstairs work studios. Goldberg was able to restore the on the Glenwood area (Touhy to Pratt) as an "arts desti- The stories of our award-winners appear on these pages. oak staircase and marble and mosaic tile flooring in the nation" and promote Rogers Park’s arts community. RPCC thanks you for the privilege of "working to corridors while replacing the plumbing and electrical sys- Activities include creating an arts directory and organiz- improve the quality of life in Rogers Park" and looks for- tems, walls, tuck pointing, heating and air conditioning. ing an annual Glenwood Avenue Arts Festival. ward to another 52 years of service. He installed thermal pane windows, new storefronts and a new roof. More than $1 million in rehabilitation and continued on page 14 How Well Do You Preliminary Plans Unveiled for Know Rogers Park? This intricate and breathtaking mosaic graces the exterior of what Sheridan Road care facility? (Hint: It’s a unique place Howard East District Streetscape serving developmentally disabled children and adults.) By Lorrie Woos

lderman Joe Moore (49th ward) unveiled a west and central districts (together, running from the CTA streetscape proposal for Howard Street’s East viaduct west to Ridge Boulevard), but with important mod- A District at a community meeting held at Stephen F. ifications designed both to reflect the more historic and Gale Community Academy November 4. Although turnout architecturally significant features of the East District, and was somewhat light due to thunderstorms, those in atten- to install special cosmetic and traffic-safety features at the dance appeared very pleased with the plan, which was troublesome six-way intersection of Howard-Rogers- presented by Chicago’s Department of Transportation Greenview. Bureau of Bridges and Transit, Streetscape and Urban Design Group. Project director Janet Attarian was joined Proposed Improvements by Scott Waldinger, city planner-project manager. Also 1) New curbs and sidewalks, with new insets of a present were Carter Strothman, project engineer for medallion-shaped design made out of pavers (as opposed McClier Corporation; and Charlie Crump, landscape archi- to the running bond of central and west district insets) that Send your correct response by January 31 to RPCC, 1530 W. tect with DLK Inc. Both McClier and DLK serve as con- replicates brick ornamentation found on Howard Street Morse Ave., Chicago IL 60626, or email your response to sultants to the project. architecture. [email protected]. Be sure to include your name, The streetscape plan reflects many hours of hard 2) Replacement of existing street lights with tall, "vin- address and phone number with your answer. The winner of a work, not only by Moore’s office and IDOT staff, but also a tage-look" pedestrian-level street lamps identical to those $25 gift certificate for Taste of Peru will be selected by lottery small, committed group of Howard Street merchants and installed in central and west districts. East-district street from the correct responses. Good luck! Look for the answer in other representatives of an East District Streetscape lamps to come with vertical banner hangers (on one side the March 2004 issue of Rogers Park 2000. Committee, including Charlotte Walters of Lost Eras a permanent, enameled-metal variation of "Howard Street Antiques (1511 W. Howard St.) and committee head of the flying ribbon" found on central and west-district light poles; Rogers Park 2000’s September issue winners were Mark Duffy Howard Street Special Service Area (SSA). other side to be available for custom banner installations and fellow residents of Lakeshore Nursing & Rehabilitation The plan (covering Howard Street from the CTA from DevCorp North). Centre. Congratulations, residents! Question: This anti-war viaduct to Sheridan Road) is based on the same statement adorns the rooftop of what popular local hangout? streetscape package recently installed on Howard Street’s continued on page 27 Answer: Heartland Café (7000 N. Glenwood). 2 ROGERS PARK 2000 Local Locksmith Goes Extra Mile for Clients By Elizabeth Burnside

hen asked to name the single W most important thing about his service, locksmith and neighborhood business-owner John Collier has an immediate response: "My knowledgeable, experienced staff—they’re the best!" As our immediate area’s only 24-hour, full- service locksmith, Collier cares about people first, which may explain why he is so well-known to clients of Rogers Park Community Council’s Victim Advocacy Support Program (VASP). Every time a call is placed to Collier Lock Service for assistance, VASP clients and staff alike reap the benefits of the commitment and talents of Collier himself and his terrific service technicians. Collier Lock Service has been in existence in the Rogers Park-Edgewater area for 12 years, but Collier’s work as a locksmith in our community goes way back to the training he received starting from the tender age of 10 in his father’s business. A brief detour into the world of rock-n-roll music notwithstanding, Collier has been a locksmith for 43 years. His staff has over 100 years of aggre- gate experience providing security services, many of those years as a group. In addition to the traditional range of services, Collier Lock Service provides on-site installation and repair of closed-circuit TV, electronic access systems, intercoms, safes and light welding for security gates and fences. The company provides residential, commercial and automotive services (as well as lockout services), and 24-hour emergency service. Collier emphasizes the trust his business is built on. The Collier Lock Service team (left to right): Thomas Evans, Bill Willingham, Ruth Coyle, Ralph Gunterman and owner John Collier. From the first call to Bill Willingham or Ruth Coyle in the shop, customers see the difference made by personal and knowledgeable service. Collier and service technicians also able to provide assistance on the emergency basis Service represent "a light at the end of the tunnel" or a Thomas Evans and Ralph Gunterman fully guarantee all VASP clients often need. "positive turning point," bringing about "a feeling of con- work. Collier staff also advise on practical safety measures trol". VASP has seen the Collier team in action on several and "common sense" ideas that are easily forgotten in Collier Lock Service (5624 N. Clark St.) may be occasions since first establishing a lock-change program times of crisis. Many VASP clients comment that Collier, reached for 24-hour emergency service, consultations three years ago. Under the program, VASP pays for lock Evans and Gunterman are particularly kind, and bring a and appointments at 773.293.0848 or 773.743.KEYS. changing-services for all victims of domestic violence who sense of normalcy and security to stressful situations. Collier has VASP’s gratitude and highest recommenda- currently have orders of protection and are working with VASP clients also praise the Collier staff for their wide tions for services provided to our community. VASP and other agencies to escape abuse. Because repertoire of jokes, patience with children and uncanny Collier Lock Service consistently demonstrates profes- ability to say just the right thing at the right time. In the Elizabeth Burnside is a court advocate for the Rogers Park sionalism, reliability and sensitivity to client situations, it is words of several VASP clients, the men of Collier Lock Community Council’s Victim Advocacy & Support Program. the chosen service-provider. Most importantly, Collier is A Fresh Start for Cocoabean Café By Charese Jordan

hen Orlando Harris opened Cocoabean Café can be expressed through (7007 N. Glenwood Ave.) in October of 2001, he poetry, music and hip-hop W never expected the violence that erupted there without profane language September 12, 2003. That evening, a private party disin- and violent or explicitly sex- tegrated into a mob attack on Max Mora as he tried to ual images. The first stop under-aged partygoers from drinking alcoholic bev- Christian Open-Mic will be erages. Mora—who was in the process of purchasing the held on Saturday, business from Harris—was badly beaten and rushed to December 20. Doors open the intensive care unit at St.Francis Hospital in Evanston. at 6:30pm for networking, With information from Mora and the community, the police and the show runs from made two arrests. Now recovering, Mora is no longer pur- 7:30 to 9pm. Other suing purchase of the café. December events are a hol- "After what happened, I considered closing the busi- iday book drive and the sec- ness," says Harris. "Then I prayed, and remembered my ond-annual Kwanzaa cele- original mission. Cocoabean was never intended to be bration. just a coffee shop. We wanted to provide a space for the Harris invites and positive exchange of ideas, knowledge and information. encourages people to stop We wanted to positively impact oppressed people, and I by the café for coffee, pas- wanted to personally show my young brothers in Rogers tries and sandwiches. "The Park that there was another way. I wanted them to see coffee is what pays for the that an African-American man could own a successful, mission work," says Harris. legal business that could give back to the community." "Without it, we wouldn’t be Armed with that commitment, Harris is refashioning here. Besides, I want Cocoabean to align with his mission. "We’re still working Rogers Park to be known on a new mission statement, but you’ll see the best of for the best sweet potato what came before plus new programs and services," says pie on the north side!" In Harris. In October and November, Cocoabean hosted the addition to coffee, sweet Cocoabean Café welcomes members of BizArts (an organization bringing together the business and first series of "For My Brothas"—a new program targeted potato pie and other deli- arts communities) at a November *** breakfast meeting. Seated at center is guest speaker Bobby at young men between the ages of 13 and 23. On a cious homemade pastries, Gene Mike, affectionately referred to as "the mother of Rogers Park". An accomplished writer, 76- weekly basis, Harris and other older men share their the café’s holiday specials year-old Mike owns and operates Eagle’s Aerie (7003 N. Glenwood Ave), a shop specializing in experience, knowledge and wisdom through classes, should not be missed. Native American arts and crafts. group discussion, movies, food and fellowship. "We can’t Featured items in just expect the young brothers to move off the streets December are eggnog- through community or police pressure. Move their minds sweet potato pie and Black available). Call Cocoabean at 773.856.5050 for more and spirits first, and the bodies will follow." Santa, a decadently rich chocolate coffee drink. The cafe information. Christian Open-Mic is another new program at the also offers computer and internet access at reasonable Cocoabean. Harris opted for a new, faith-based focus. rates. Charese Jordan is president of The Jordan Group, a consulting While respecting artistic freedom and expression, Cocoabean Café is open from 6am to 12pm, Monday firm specializing in public and community relations, special Cocoabean will stay true to its mission when featuring through Saturday. The café is also open for private events events, marketing and strategy. Jordan is a long-time resident artists. Harris believes that positive, truthful messages and meetings (event-coordinating and catering services of Rogers Park and a dedicated community activist. ROGERS PARK 2000 3 How to Write a Winning Resume: Part II of a Three- part Series on Smart Job Hunting By Sharon F. Wilson

any job- everything. seekers suf- 5. Use keywords. Include specific key M fer from words and phrases that describe skills and resume-writer’s experience (such as product launch, block, making it income statement, balance sheet, account hard to get the right management, C++ programming language, words down on word processing, MS Excel, PowerPoint, paper. People Adobe Illustrator, graphic design and often feel that advertising). everyone else’s 6. Avoid listing irrelevant information. resume is more While many people include personal inter- professional and ests on a resume, it is best to only list those better worded than their own. Certain relevant to the job at hand. For example, if resume-writing rules should never be bro- a candidate is applying for a position as a ken. For example, a resume should not run ski instructor, it makes sense to list cross- as long as a Greek epic or be printed on country skiing as a hobby. Personal infor- bright pink paper, but many people still fall mation (date of birth, marital status, height prey to these and other errors that doom and weight, etc.) normally does not appear their chances of landing an interview. The on a resume. following guidelines will help any job-seek- 7. Protect personal information. One dis- er create a better resume. advantage of the computer age is that 1. Be neat and error free. Catch all typos strangers have access to personal informa- and grammatical errors. Ask someone tion, making the threat of identity theft a detail-oriented to proofread your resume. frightening reality. By taking a few simple Even the smallest error can land a resume precautions—such as displaying only first in the trash can (or electronic recycle bin). and last names on an online resume or 2. State specific career objectives. A asking employers to communicate via email solid, clear objective will help carry a only—it is possible to stay reasonably focused message throughout the resume. secure. Scam artists abound, so be alert. The objective summarizes skills and 8. Avoid personal pronouns. Never use emphasizes strengths. personal pronouns such as "I" or "me" in a 3. Make a good first impression. Most resume. employers spend less than 30 seconds 9. List only recent career information. scanning each resume. Most employers The general rule of thumb is to show work are more concerned about career achieve- experience for the last 10 to 15 years. ments than education. Whenever possible, keep the resume at 4. Emphasize skills. Use a skills-based one page in length. resume format that is organized around special abilities and talents. Prioritize continued on page 36 4 ROGERS PARK 2000 Howard Area Community Center Looks Forward to Continuing Tradition of Service By Stuart Iseminger and Cheryl Zminda

stablished in 1967, Howard Area Community Center HACC at a Glance child care, parent education and support services for over (HACC) is a multi-service, community-based agency ¥ Over 3,000 individuals benefited from HACC services in 250 children (up to age five) and their families. HACC to E serving Rogers Park. Widespread programs and 2003. host reception in early 2004. services exist in six major areas: infants and toddlers, ¥ For 2002-03 academic year, 43 students earned high- ¥ Approximately 150 survivors of domestic violence early childhood, after-school youth, alternative high school diplomas from Howard Area Alternative High assisted in 2003, both individually and in education and school , adult education and employment, and social ser- School and participated in commencement ceremony on support groups. Safety information, assistance with court vices. HACC is headquartered at 7648 N. Paulina St. June 20, 2003. procedures and stabilizing housing/income services pro- and has several outpost sites: 1623 W. Howard St., 7500 ¥ Medications access project launched in spring of 2003 vided. and 7510 N. Ashland Ave. and 1527 W. Morse Ave. to assist individuals with serious, chronic health problems ¥ HACC Dental Office updated with new equipment; now "All of our programs have grown in response to iden- to secure prescription drugs at no or low cost. Program furnished with two fully outfitted chairs. tified needs of Rogers Park," says Roberta Buchanan, targets those without adequate health insurance. ¥ HACC Community Garden (Hermitage and Juneway) who has served as HACC executive director for 10 years. ¥ Employment Resource Center (1623 W. Howard St.) wins second place in Mayor Daley’s Landscape contest. "Our mission is to assist low-income individuals and fam- experienced at least 800 visits per month since opening Sister Cecilia Fandel, garden supervisor, named Friends ilies in Rogers Park in stabilizing their lives and develop- in spring 2002. Center features high-tech computer lab of the Parks’ Outstanding Individual. Photographs on ing the skills necessary to become effective community and provides job-readiness training and other employ- exhibit from February through July at Field Museum of members." In order to accomplish this mission, the ment-related services. Natural History. agency provides emergency intervention and family sta- ¥ HACC one of ten organizations selected for two-year, ¥ MAC (Mothers and Children) nutrition program serves bilization services, and promotes personal developmental early childhood initiative launched in 2003. (Collaboration over 850 households per month; eligible pregnant or post- growth. between Robert R. McCormick Tribune Foundation, partum mothers, children and seniors receive monthly HACC’s youth program is expanding to provide after- National Louis University, Loyola University’s Center for food packages. school services to Stephen F. Gale Community Academy Urban Research and Learning, and Illinois Facilities ¥ In 2004, HACC looks forward to undergoing application students in grades 6 through 8. With a strong academic Fund). Project to enhance HACC Early Childhood Center process to achieve North Central Association accredita- focus, the new project connects to the after-school project through development of professional staff. tion for Howard Area Alternative High School. that HACC has long operated for Gale students in lower ¥ State-of-the-art Family Center Campus (7500 and 7510 grades. (For more on HACC youth programs, see story N. Ashland Ave.) almost completed. Renovation of 7500 Stuart Iseminger serves as Howard Area Community Center’s on page 5). building completed in 2002; renovation of 7510 complet- director of social services; Cheryl Zminda as development ed in December 2003. Campus to provide high-quality director. For program information, call 773.262.6622. A New Lake Michigan Shoreline for Rogers Park? Proposed Park System Extension Raises Important Questions By Joel Brammeier

he city of Chicago is often lauded—both regionally fruition. Last year, Mayor Richard M. Daley announced off supplies of essential sediment. and internationally—as a model urban waterfront. his intention to extend the lakefront park system from The process is already under way. The Graham T With long stretches of green space bounded only by Hollywood to Evanston by establishing a series of islands Foundation—a philanthropic organization dedicated to the seemingly limitless horizon of Lake Michigan to the in Lake Michigan. This proposal has raised more than a "informed and creative public dialogue concerning archi- east, the virtues of the "city by the lake" have attracted few eyebrows—some in amazement, some in skepticism, tecture and the built environment"—is sponsoring a countless businesses, tourists and residents to Chicago and some in concern over how this new plan might impact design competition to help develop ideas for the site. A over the past 150 years. the character of the shoreline that means so much to grassroots organization, Friends of the New Lakefront, But as any Rogers Park resident can tell you, this is Rogers Park residents. has formed in Edgewater to begin consideration of more only part of the picture. From the end of Lakeshore Drive One thing is clear—this project would involve the design ideas and monitor the city’s progress. at Hollywood Avenue north to the city limits, Rogers Park largest creation of artificial land on the bottom of Lake When city planners leave behind the baseball dia- gives way to a series of privately owned apartment build- Michigan since the disposal of the remnants of the Great monds and fieldhouses of inland parks for the blue waters ings interspersed with patches of green space and Chicago Fire under what is now Grant Park. Done poor- of Lake Michigan, they open another "kettle of fish" entire- beaches until the shoreline park system starts up again in ly, the lakefill could actually have a negative impact on the ly, so to speak. It is fair to say that the world will be watch- Evanston. Beachgoers and families in this part of the city health of the lake. Done well, this project could be a ing Chicago’s next move to improve its crown jewel of a must seek out these rare access points by crossing tremendous environmental asset to the city and reverse lakefront. If we put the health of our favorite lake first Sheridan Road. Cyclists and runners try to peacefully the trend of treating our urban waterfront like a sacrifice each step of the way, Rogers Park could be on the receiv- coexist with pedestrian and automotive traffic in an zone for fish and wildlife. In order for the project to suc- ing end of the best addition to Chicago’s park system attempt to fit in a good workout amidst the city’s bustle. ceed, certain guidelines should be followed: since Daniel Burnham put pen to paper in 1909. There may be a new future ahead for the lakefront in 1) All land created by the project must become property Rogers Park if city plans taking shape right now come to of local or state residents. Since the lakebottom is already held in trust for the people of Illinois Joel Brammeier is manager of habitat programs at the by the state, the only acceptable transfer of Lake Michigan Federation. Although a Lakeview resident, property can be to another public entity, Brammeier often finds himself at the Rogers Park shoreline as such as the Chicago Park District. This will part of the Federation’s effort to support community organiza- ensure that the land continues to serve the tions throughout Chicago’s Lake Michigan watershed. Visit the interests of the public. Federation website at www.lakemichigan.org. 2) Residents—particularly those of Rogers Park and Edgewater—must be involved every step of the way. One sure way to doom a project to failure is to develop it behind closed doors. Residents with concerns need forums to voice them, while those with ideas need opportunities to apply them. 3) Public access must be paramount to any development. The express purpose of this project should be to allow residents and vis- Rogers Park 2000 Committee: Cathie Bazzon, Lorraine Dostal, Cary Steinbuck, itors to enjoy Lake Michigan in a healthy, Elizabeth Vitell. sustainable way. 4) The natural character of the lake’s water Writers: Pamela Andresen, Edgar Bajana, Cathie Bazzon, Joel Brammeier, Elizabeth Burnside, Ana Coronel, Kathleen McGowan Gruber, and bottomland should be preserved and Kevin Gutteron, Farzana Hamid, Lupe Holguin, Stuart Iseminger, enhanced. It’s no secret that Chicago’s lake- David Jones, Elissa Jones, Susan Kogan, Ramon S. Leon, bottom has been highly altered since settle- Bonnie Tipton Long, Naomi Nakayama, Araceli Vallarta Quiroz, ment of the area. The park extension is an Bea C. Rodriguez, Adam Shames, Cary Steinbuck, Evelyn J. Thompson, Cathy Vates, S. Patricia Welsh, opportunity to provide real improvements to Sharon F. Wilson, Artis Q. Wright, Lorrie Woos and Cheryl Zminda. the zone near the shoreline by enhancing degraded fish and wildlife habitat. Designer: Pon Angara Photos: Cathie Bazzon, Sam Morgan, 5) The project must not cause erosion of Cary Steinbuck Daniel S. Tong. shoreline land along Lake Michigan. Executive Director: Cary Steinbuck Sediment in the waters of the lake naturally replenishes beaches and other landscapes To advertise, call 773.338.RPCC ext 22, worn down by waves. Structures in the email us at [email protected] water can accelerate this erosion by cutting or send snail mail to 1530 W. Morse Ave., Chicago, IL 60626. ROGERS PARK 2000 5 Howard Area Community Center Programs Impact Lives of Local Youth By Bea C. Rodriguez

hen the bell rings to signal the end of a school day, some students rush to their lockers, impa- W tient to go home, eat or hang out with friends. Others find their way into extracurricular activities—some not as positive as participating in school clubs, part-time jobs or sports teams. The five distinct after-school programs of Howard Area Community Center (HACC) provide youth of all ages and backgrounds with the opportunity to positively impact their intellectual, emotional, cultural and social growth by spending time with positive mentors and peers, receiving academic or job assistance, eating healthy foods, developing multiple skills, perform- ing community service and participating in field trips. Most of all, they enjoy safe and supportive environments on a daily basis.

Teen REACH (Responsibility, Education, Achievement, Caring and Hope) "This is our second home," comments Lobsang Dolma, a sophomore at Roger C. Sullivan High School, with regard to "The Zone". She and approximately 45 other high-school students regularly spend their evenings at The Zone (1527 W. Morse Ave.). A haven for 14 to 18- year-old high schoolers of all talents and backgrounds, Teen REACH offers a gamut of free services and resources: a recently set-up computer lab, tutoring in all academic subjects, ACT classes (every Saturday, 12 to 2pm), college and career counseling, financial workshops, nutritious snacks, cooking classes, leadership activities, journalism workshops, community service opportunities, campus tours, massage therapy, cultural awareness events and field trips to places such as Six Flags, concerts, movies, restaurants and amusement parks. This year, Teen REACH formed its own Youth Janell Halley, a 10th grader at Roger C. Sullivan High School, belts one out for her peers at the November 4 Council, a group of students who brainstorm, plan and Beat Boxin’ kickoff. Tournaments are held at Sullivan every Tuesday at 3:30pm in room 209. implement various activities and events. Their first youth- led event is the Beat Boxin’ Tournament, which showcas- es a healthy competition between the different voices of resumes, dress appropriately and perform well in mock Rogers Park youth. The singing/rapping tournament, interviews, and to deal with real workplace issues. GREENSLEEVES and STARS which kicked off to a dynamic start on November 4, takes Moreover, they may participate in "job shadowing" activi- Where else can 6 to 12-year-old Stephen F. Gale place every Tuesday and is open to any Sullivan high ties at various establishments, working as paid interns or Academy students do their homework with tutors, eat a school student who can "throw" meaningful beats, rap employees in diverse fields. healthy snack, learn social skills, play sports, plant their positively or sing whole-hearted melodies. The final MOWD actively recruits and counsels youth, encour- own garden and have a lot of fun? Originally focused on showdown will be held at The Zone, where the winners aging them to complete high school and make positive environmental issues, the Greensleeves program has will be awarded trophies, T-shirts and gift certificates to a decisions about their lives. Past participants have suc- evolved to provide diverse services that help students music store. A music industry professional will judge the cessfully pursued interests in college, culinary arts pro- succeed in and out of the classroom. final showdown and give tips to all participants. grams, art and design, and other careers. Operating Monday through Friday at Gale Academy Funded by the Illinois Department of Human (1631 W. Jonquil Terrace), this program enhances literacy Services, Teen REACH operates at Sullivan High School PROJECT JAM (Jordan After-School Magic) skills through educational activities such as storytelling, (rooms 209 and 211) from Monday to Thursday, 2:30 to On October 16, fourth through seventh graders made group poetry and science experiments. Structured recre- 5pm; and at The Zone from 5 to 7pm. Parents are encour- 40 caramel apples and donated them to a community ation and life skills-building such as leadership and com- aged to become involved in the Parental Advisory Board kitchen. This is just one of many leadership and service munication are emphasized. Youth-led environmental (where parents can provide input and get a free massage activities that Project JAM offers. Last year, students ran activism remains a program priority, and students beauti- from the Chicago School of Massage Therapy), Bowling their own ice cream parlor, organizing themselves as fy our community by planting basil, echinacea, flowers Night, and Family Pot Luck Dinners. scoopers, servers, cashiers and receptionists. The busi- and oregano in Triangle Park (1750 W. Juneway Terrace). ness raised a total of $250 which was used to fund a field Also at Gale, the new STARS Community Learning MOWD (Mayor’s Office of Workforce Development) trip to House of Kicks amusement park (9535 S. Cottage Center after-school program focuses on academic devel- The Zone also houses the MOWD program, another Grove Ave.) opment of sixth through eighth graders. STARS operates haven for Rogers Park youth. Every Tuesday from 5 to Students also receive academic assistance on a from Monday through Thursday, 2:30pm to 5pm (with a 6pm, 14 to 20-year-old youth participants earn a monthly daily basis. Operating Monday through Friday from possible extension until 6 pm. Students enjoy free tutor- stipend for building skills that empower them to direct 2:30pm to 5pm at Jordan Community School, tutors reg- ing, life skills, fun activities and nutritious snacks every their own future. ularly help with homework assignments. Social work- day. Serving in-school and out-of-school youth in the shops allow youth to express themselves and hone their Rogers Park area, MOWD conducts weekly workshops critical thinking skills. Structured recreation (ranging from that prepare youth to effectively participate in the work- board games to sports) gives Jordan students a chance Bea C. Rodriguez is Teen REACH coordinator for Howard force. Participants learn how to prepare their own to hang out in a safe and fun environment. Area Youth Programs. She may be reached at 773.381.3652. 6 ROGERS PARK 2000 Rogers Park Community Council Annual Report To Improve the Quality of Life in Rogers Park

Rogers Park Community Council (RPCC) has worked to tion on a regular basis was a good idea. It took two years, two al average. But what really is important are the lives that are implement this lofty mission since 1952. Through community police commanders and two superintendents to move the idea changed when a system that is designed to protect is supported initiatives and partnerships with neighbors, organizations and forward. In October 1993, VASPreceived its first referral from with a community-based infrastructure. businesses, we continue to build a neighborhood that is the Chicago Police Department’s 24th District. On behalf of the Rogers Park Community Council, I want involved in its future. Many times people ask the question, "Why does she to thank each of you for all your efforts to make Rogers Park a This year, we celebrate the 10-year anniversary of our stay?" This partnership asks the question, "What can we do to great place to live, work and raise a family. Victim Advocacy Support Program’s partnership, help her live free of violence?" As a community, Rogers Park "Intervention, Information and Advocacy". Through collabo- has created a network that supports a victim of domestic vio- Sincerely, ration with neighborhood organizations, we established an lence in efforts to become a survivor of domestic violence. innovative partnership with the Chicago Police Department We could talk about numbers—during the last year VASP aimed at reducing the recurrence of domestic violence in our received 2,074 referrals from the Chicago Police Department— community. making contact with 56 percent and providing crisis counsel- This was not an easy initiative to begin. In order to make ing, criminal justice advocacy and a link to additional it work, the Police Department administration had to agree that resources. We can talk about the 263 Orders of Protection that Donald Rankins partnering with an outside organization and providing informa- were received and that this is five times higher than the nation- President

HOUSING ACTION PROGRAM cracking plaster. Other times, calls are in regard to man- During the 12-month period from July 1, 2002 agement problems including criminal and drug activity in through June 30, 2003, Housing Action Program . . . stablished in 1967, RPCC’s housing conservation or around the building. Solutions to housing problems are ¥ Targeted 41 buildings with problems of deterioration and program was the first of its kind in the City of developed with tenant, landlord and community input. unsafe housing. E Chicago. Through community activism and inter- Advocacy services are provided, including intervention ¥ Advocated in housing court or administrative hearings vention, problem buildings are seen as clients and specif- with management and often times initiating city inspec- on 17 housing cases. ic plans are developed to improve the buildings. tions and referral to Chicago Building Department and ¥ Through these activities, 10 buildings have met commu- Initiatives range from providing technical assistance to a Housing Court. nity standards and Chicago Building Codes. Overall, Rogers Park’s housing stock is 70 to 75 percent 194 units were improved to provide safe housing to 368 new owner who doesn’t under- To maintain and stand the long-range conse- rental—much of it built in the 1920s. Without constant residents. quences of delayed mainte- improve the quality attention, buildings deteriorate; unsafe and hazardous ¥ Provided individual technical assistance to 25 own- nance, to referring a deteriorat- of housing in Rogers housing result; and eventually, abandonment and dis- ers/managers. ed and poorly managed build- Park in order to placement will occur. Property sales result in substan- ¥ Presented 6 workshops on building improvements, landing to the Drug & Gang House insure that safe and tially higher rents—thereby increasing displacement. lord/tenant issues, and appealing property taxes. Enforcement Section of the City affordable homes Sixty percent of Rogers Park’s housing stock is com- ¥ Met with over 500 neighbors through community block posed of one-bedroom and one-room studio apartments. clubs and beat teams. Held various meetings about of Chicago’s Law Department are available. for prosecution. With an average of 2.5 persons living in each unit, hous- housing problems and improvement strategies. Housing Action Program receives three to five calls a ing is crowded. Safety in our housing is essential for the day for assistance with housing problems. Many times families who live here. Unsafe buildings are targeted Improvements Made. HAP received many calls from the complaints are about an unhealthy living environ- because of serious problems of deterioration and or man- tenants in a 94-unit building. Today, the building is in cir- ment—including broken doors, lack of heat or water, agement. ROGERS PARK 2000 7 Rogers Park Community Council Annual Report cuit court because of the unsafe conditions found by the $4.5 million construction project. This relationship put paper are published quarterly and placed in 50 business- inspectors. The judge placed restrictions on the own- the community at the negotiating table. es for free pick-up by neighbors. In December, RP2000 ers—including providing tenants with leases and requir- Discussions with Chicago Park District officials con- is mailed free to every household and business in Rogers ing tenant screening with criminal history checks. tinued through the year. Community partners organized a Park—35,000 copies! In 2002, more than 40 volunteers Further, the courts ordered that security doors be locked well-attended community meeting in May 2002 to hear assisted with writing articles. at all times and the windows and screens be repaired. Park District plans for a smaller facility. The community The owners are now taking greater care of this property. voted unanimously to oppose the project. RPCC and its ENCOURAGE COMMUNITY PARTICIPATION in the HAP visits the property weekly to assure compliance with partners developed a position paper, which was present- Democratic Process. RPCC co-sponsored two commu- court orders. Calls from tenants say that they are not ed to the City. In August 2002, the Park District came back nity forums to present candidates for Alderman in the afraid to enter or leave their unit anymore! to the community and agreed to build a full-size communi- 49th Ward and organized two forums to present candi- ty center with a full-size gym. The community won! dates for Illinois State Representative. (Note: RPCC does Fines Imposed. One of our most recent successes is an In 2003, community leadership worked with Chicago not endorse any candidate for office and created these initiative in which we partnered with CAPS to assure that Park District (CPD) architects on design of the new build- opportunities for residents to meet candidates and ask five buildings containing 185 units of rental housing pro- ing. Architectural drawings of the new 16,000 square-foot questions about their positions on issues that impact our vided safe homes. Tenants reported lack of heat, water building were presented at a May 17 community meeting. neighborhood.) and security. After inspection by the City of Chicago and Support for the new design was unanimous! A ground- court action, the buildings were placed in receivership breaking ceremony was held in February. By June 2003, SENIOR INITIATIVES PROGRAM and the owners fined $40,000. HAP worked with tenants construction bids were being solicited by the CPD. to make sure that they were able to participate in the n 1992, Rogers Park Community Council initiated a court process, and that their complaints were heard by Early Childhood Network. RPCC facilitated establishment home-repair program for seniors. Home Repairs for the judge. of a network of in-home and non-profit daycare providers to I Accessible and Independent Living is a City of develop strategies to increase the number of placements Chicago sponsored program open to homeowners and COMMUNITY AWARENESS available and the quality of services available to families in apartment dwellers. the Rogers Park and Edgewater communities. In 2000, RPCC’s sub- To support a senior’s and PRIDE PROGRAM sidiary, Rogers Park Commu- choice to live inde- Devon/Sheridan Tax Increment Financing (TIF) nity Development Corporation ommunity Awareness and Pride Program (CAPP) is pendently and remain District. RPCC served on the Devon/Sheridan TIF (RPCDC), became a partner in the organizing arm of RPCC. We work with neigh- in Rogers Park. Advisory Committee. Facilitated by DevCorp North (with the redevelopment of a 57-unit C bors and community organizations to identify com- representation from Edgewater Chamber of Commerce, residential building at 1528 W. Morse Avenue which pro- munity problems, develop improvement strategies and ini- Edgewater Neighbors, businesses and community lead- vides affordable rental housing for individuals aged 55 tiate actions that make Rogers Park a great place to live, ers), two community meetings were organized to provide plus. work and raise a family. an introduction to TIF. An additional community-planning In September 2001, RPCC and RPCDC located their meeting was held to solicit input on development goals. offices to the ground-level storefront. As part of the part- SUPPORT NEIGHBORHOOD INITIATIVES. As one of This community outreach and education occurred prior to nership, RPCC pledged to bring supportive services to Rogers Park’s largest community-based organizations, fulfillment of statute requirements of notification. the residents of the building and to the at-large communi- Rogers Park Community Council serves as a partner and ty—and the Senior Initiatives Program was born! resource for many local initiatives: CELEBRATE COMMUNITY. Organized annual com- In March of 2002, RPCC supported the opening of a munity events to celebrate Rogers Park’s resources: wellness center in the 1528 Morse Seniors Building, Gale Community Park. President’s Reception (recognizing the Citizen of the staffed by Council for Jewish Elderly. RPCC provided RPCC worked collaboratively To increase knowledge Year), Tender Loving Care and Faith in the Community, office space and telephone service to the outpost, as well with Family Matters, Gale and participation by Rogers Park Garden Walk, and Spirit of Rogers Park as a small start-up stipend through a grant from the Community Leadership community resident in Awards. Chicago Department on Aging. Furthermore, RPCC Council, Howard Area developed an outreach program connecting those seniors Community Center and Ald. neighborhood issues FACILITATE COMMUNITY INFORMATION. Rogers to area services. Joe Moore (49th Ward) to to improve the quality Park Community Council prepares and distributes the A database of local senior residents was soon devel- bring a full-size community of life in Rogers Park. quarterly Rogers Park 2000—a free community newspa- oped. Through regular mailings and phone calls, seniors center to the north of Howard per. RP2000 is designed to discuss neighborhood issues are advised of available services, programs and upcoming area. Sen. Carol Ronen and as well as promote Rogers Park, RPCC and other com- events. The database—which has grown to over 1,200 Rep. Julie Hamos asked RPCC to serve as the fiscal munity organizations. Ten thousand copies of the news- continued on page 8 agent for a $700,000 "Illinois First Grant" to be used for 8 ROGERS PARK 2000 Rogers Park Community Council Annual Report households—was used in 2002 to conduct a survey of 150 tance frequently to overcome setbacks to the impending ¥ Obtained 263 orders of protection through court advo- senior households. The survey enabled SIP to gather move. cacy. data about specific needs (employment, housing, in-home ¥ Enrolled 65 clients in "Getting Employed"—and by year- services, etc.) and develop a profile of the senior commu- VICTIM ADVOCACY SUPPORT end, 43 clients obtained employment. nity, while providing excellent outreach opportunities. ¥ Repaired 10 doors within 24 hours of domestic violence PROGRAM incident utilizing the 24th and 20th District CAPS lock During the year . . . repair programs. ictim Advocacy Support Program (VASP) began in ¥ Senior Technology Resource Center was created to 1985 as a community-based resource for survivors familiarize seniors with the benefits and applications of Domestic Violence and Stalking. "Martha" had been V of all violent crimes. In 1993, VASP developed computers and to empower them to fully take advantage dating John for only six months. He did not respect her "Intervention, Information, and of available resources. Three computer stations with decision to end the relationship. He began to stalk and Advocacy"—a partnership to bet- To reduce the internet access were installed in RPCC offices. harass her. Nothing would stop him. He went as far as ter serve survivors of domestic Curriculae for "Microsoft Word for the Novice" and impact of violence setting her car on fire to remove her means of getting battery. Family violence deterio- "Introduction to the Internet" were created. by providing sup- away from him. rates lives in our community. ¥ Home Repair Aiding Independent Living (H-RAIL) VASP received her referral from the Chicago Police Thanks to our partnership with the port, advocacy repaired 25 homes and apartments benefiting 33 Department. VASP advocates contacted Martha and pro- Chicago Police Department’s 24th and education to seniors by assessing needs and making meaningful vide information about options under the Illinois Domestic and 20th Districts, Centro modifications—including installation of safety equipment survivors of Violence Act. She decided to get an Order of Protection. Romero, Council for Jewish such as grab bars. Sixty-eight percent of repairs were violent crime. In court, Martha was frightened. For a while she did- Elderly’s Crime Victim/Witness made in homes of low-income households. Participants n’t think she could go through with the process and keep Assistance Program, Friends of Battered Women and ranged in age from 60 to 91 years old; the average age John away from her. With her advocate’s help, she held their Children, and Horizons Anti Violence Project, sur- of individuals assisted in this program is 72.5. firm to her convictions and the decision she had made to vivors of domestic battery have a network of resources. take care of herself. Our programs work collaboratively—not competitively. ¥ Over 200 Rogers Park seniors received information On the final court date, she spoke without holding In 1999, VASP developed "Getting Employed" to regarding resources in the community. (Our largest back. She gave herself permission and discovered the assist survivors of domestic violence obtain employment request continues to be for affordable rental housing.) strength to face him. At the end of the trial, John was and allow them an opportunity to live free of violence. Seventy applications for benefits were completed— found guilty, and Martha was given a two-year order of Crisis keeps women from achieving independence. Many including assistance with applications for transportation protection. Martha has moved to a new apartment and times, victims of domestic violence are forced to stay out assistance, housing vouchers, medicare and tax report- found a new job. She has not heard from John in two of the job market and find themselves with no skills, little ing. A directory of senior resources was distributed months. self-esteem and few options. Without financial resources, through RP2000. it is almost impossible to leave a violent situation. YOUTH INTERVENTION PROGRAM The Domestic Violence Lock Repair Initiative pro- An Example of Senior Advocacy. "Jane" is a 74-year- vides the funds necessary to hire a contractor to replace old Section 8 voucher holder who originally sought our outh Intervention Program (YIP) was established in locks and doors through a grant from AllState Insurance assistance locating a new apartment. We put her in touch 1988 and works with families and community part- to the 24th and 20th Districts of the Chicago Police with Hispanic Housing Development Corporation, devel- Y ners to develop resources to prevent juvenile delin- Department. opers of a brand-new, 10-story building at 7450 North quency, youth crime and gang affiliation. VASP received special recognition from the Attorney Rogers Avenue, where she decided to relocate. Several Community outreach, short-term General’s office in May, 2001 as one of Illinois’ best com- To reduce weeks later, a distraught Jane phoned to say that while intervention and family counseling, as munity-based victim service programs in the state. VASP she was "all set" to move May 30, Section 8 had yet to well as youth leadership development criminal activ- received the "Police Partnership Award" from the Chicago supply her with moving papers. We contacted Section 8 activities are organized with youth ity by creating Police Department in 1999. on her behalf, only to discover that the first phase of input. YIP receives referrals from alternatives preparations were barely underway. We then resched- schools and the juvenile court system During the year, VASP . . . for youth. uled the date of the move and all related arrangements, through the Rogers Park Youth ¥ Received 2,074 referrals from the Chicago Police negotiating between Section 8, HOME senior moving ser- Network. Department. Made contact with and provided crisis vices and both landlords. Jane is hard of hearing and In partnership with Gale Community Academy, an counseling and follow-up services to 1,167 survivors of very mild of manner—not the most fortunate combination after school program was developed for children in grades violent crimes (56.2%). Provided 4,770 hours of crisis for someone faced with a trying and complicated situa- four through eight. During the school year, daily home- intervention counseling and court advocacy services. tion. Over the next several weeks, she sought our assis- ROGERS PARK 2000 9 Rogers Park Community Council Annual Report work sessions were offered to the children. Individual and calling for coordination between community agencies for ¥ Enrolled 35 volunteers in "Be There for Kids", a city-wide family counseling was provided to assist youth achieve the benefit of our youth. The need for opportunities to recruitment initiative. their academic goals. Daily after-school recreation pro- engage in quality activities and programs during out-of- ¥ Sponsored program development initiatives for after- grams were created for youth participants. school hours is vital for youth to develop life-long skills school and non-school times. Mini-grants were given to Youth also participate in program planning to develop and become productive and self-sufficient adults. agencies that have shown commitment and excellence team-building and leadership skills. Rogers Park Youth Now as RPYN approaches its sixth year, it has grown to serving youth. Network teen leaders work with the program and facilitate into a leading community coordinator, focusing on four after-school recreation and youth development programs. key components: community planning and partnership; RPYN Creates Summer Resources Teens develop employment skills and create a work history. youth involvement; out- To strengthen community ¥ Placed 200 teens in summer jobs through Mayor reach; and enhanced Daley’s KidStart Summer Youth Employment Initiative. During the year, Youth Intervention Program . . . program access, quality and families by creating a Worked with an additional 28 youth in five areas of con- ¥ Assisted 150 youth through after-school programs and and evaluations. We strong and cohesive infra- centration: Head Start/Early Literacy, Summer Nutrition, intervention services. Additionally, YIP youth participat- work through many are- structure which develops Youth Mapping, Community Mapping and Community ed in group activities with Rogers Park Youth Network. nas in our role as a com- Research. Summer projects varied from developing an Seventy-five percent of YIP youth come from low- munity clearinghouse. self-confidence, belonging, educational play for teens about teen pregnancy to income families; 82 percent come from female-headed Approximately 80 organi- individual responsibility, researching and evaluating summer programs in families. zations participate in a healthy lifestyles and a Rogers Park to researching and creating a report and ¥ Facilitated monthly community-service projects Community Consortium sense of safety in youth. video about street harassment of women and girls. designed and implemented by youth. Projects included that meets monthly. ¥ Facilitated "NeighborHoops" basketball program at Gale a clothing drive, food drive and holiday pageant for other Consortium members have been developing and imple- School Park during the summer. More than 150 youth children. menting a community action plan to assess and fully ages 13 to 18 participated in basketball throughout the ¥ Partnered with Howard Area Community Center and serve the needs of youth in our neighborhood. summer. The program was sponsored by the Chicago Alternatives Inc. to offer a summer camp for youth in the During the 12-month period from July 1, 2002 Park District, After School Matters and The Seabury Gale Community Academy neighborhood. through June 30, 2003, Rogers Park Youth Network Foundation. reached more than 800 youth—200 percent of our goal— ¥ Referred more than 200 youth to summer activities More than Just Tutoring. "Byron" was living in a home- with no signs of slowing down. through community partnerships with neighborhood less shelter with his mom and six siblings—ranging in age organizations, parks, etc. from 2 to 16. YIP encouraged and motivated the mother RPYN Encourages Teen Leadership Development to complete documentation in order to obtain food stamps ¥ Engaged 78 teens through Youth Council. Teens RPCC MANAGEMENT AND FINANCES and a medical card. YIP provided ongoing support to planned and participated in activities that fostered lead- Byron while the family lived in a transitional and crisis ership such as Illinois Center for Violence Prevention ogers Park Community Council is governed by a environment. Daily tutoring and recreation programs Youth Peace Retreat, Chicago Department of Human 27-member board of directors composed of individ- offered him stability and a connection to the community. Services Youth Expo, Chicago Commission on Human R uals who live and/or work in our neighborhood and After six months of participation, Byron graduated to the Relations Unity Walk and much more. who are concerned about the future of our community. next grade! Mom found more permanent housing with a ¥ Organized participation of 50 teens in "Teenology" city- Eighty-five percent of revenues are directed to com- family member. wide youth expo. The event was created and imple- munity initiatives and program costs. Fifteen percent of Graduating to the Next Grade. This year, four of the chil- mented by 24 YouthNets and Chicago Department of revenues are directed to administrative expenses. dren participating in the after-school tutoring program did Human Services youth division. Rogers Park Community Council is supported not complete the requirements to move to the next grade. ¥ Participated in monthly community and public activities through its membership, including local fundraisers and YIP continued to work with the families and the youth dur- such as "Clean & Green", CAPS beat meetings, Back to advertisements/donations for Rogers Park 2000. During ing the summer. By September, all four were able to enter School Picnic and local block-club meetings. fiscal 2003, we received grants from: the next grade. RPYN Supports Program Development Corporations, Organizations and Foundations ROGERS PARK YOUTH NETWORK ¥ Worked with Live Bait Theatre to stage two live improvi- ¥ United Way Mayor Daley’s KidStart/YouthNet 24th District sational shows at Lifeline Theatre. The shows starred ¥ Devon Bank RPYN youth and officers of the Chicago Police ¥ Lloyd A. Fry Foundation pen Hearts, Open Minds and Courageous Department 24th District—effectively breaking down ¥ Howard Area Community Center Spirits" is the motto for our network. Seven stereotypes to build positive relations between youth ¥ Kraft Employee Fund “O years ago, City of Chicago released a report and police. continued on page 10 10 ROGERS PARK 2000 Rogers Park Community Council Annual Report

¥ La Salle Bank ¥ Northern Trust Bank ¥ S&C Electric Company ¥ Walgreen’s Foundation

Government Grants State of Illinois ¥ Attorney General—Violent Crime Victims Assistance Program ¥ Criminal Justice Information Authority—Victims of Crime Act City of Chicago ¥ Department of Human Services ¥ Department of Housing ¥ Mayor’s Office of Workforce Development ¥ Department on Aging

Rogers Park Community Council Board of Directors July 1, 2002 through June 30, 2003

OFFICERS Donald Rankins, President Elizabeth Vitell, 1st Vice President Cesar Izquierdo, 2nd Vice President Jennifer Clark, 3rd Vice President Lorraine Dostal, Secretary Magaly Fernandez, Treasurer

DIRECTORS Connie Abels Jennifer Kuhn Marlena Bansa Bill Markle Glen Brooks, Jr. Richard Moran Mina Cardenas Jane Neufeld Emma Clay Craig Siegelin Linda England Diane Taylor Lorene Hopkins Norman White David Jones Patricia Williams Karrie Kindle Roy Witherow

IMMEDIATE PAST PRESIDENT Robert J. Winston

STAFF Cary Steinbuck, Executive Director Cathie Bazzon, Associate Director Dana Dyan Doffin, Victim Advocacy Support Program Sharon Wilson, Domestic Violence Employment Counselor Elizabeth Burnside, Maria Kot and Yvette Ayala, Court Advocates Mary Jane Haggerty, Housing Action Director Norman Polk, Youth Intervention Director Sam Morgan, Rogers Park Youth Network Director Aaron Guth, Danielle Nelson, Adriana Lopez, RP Youth Network Carol Butler, Bookkeeper ROGERS PARK 2000 11 CAPS in Command Border Patrol Puts a Stop to Drug Trafficking

hicago Police Department (CPD) in partnership with ity spilled from north of Howard Street into Evanston, so Philip Cline initiated "Operation Closed Market" to contin- Evanston Police Department (EPD) announced the a joint operation was developed," said deputy chief John ue the attack on drugs in our community and citywide. C arrest of nine gang members on December 5. Five J. Risley, head of CPD Narcotics and Gang Investigations. Administrative personnel (inside officers) are assigned on additional offenders are being sought. "Working closely with Evanston police, we were able to a daily basis to monitor drug activity in targeted locations. The arrests are the result of a seven-month under- infiltrate this drug operation and put these drug dealers It is anticipated that Operation Closed Market will cover CPD investigation—"Operation Border Patrol"— out of business. This joint operation is just the latest continue into 2004. which targets drug dealers. Arrests included members of example of the ongoing partnership with Evanston Ronvik noted that the immediate impact of the the Black P Stone street gang, who have controlled drug Police." arrests are a significant reduction in loitering and drug sales along the Evanston-Rogers Park border. A total of 17 individuals—ranging in age from 15 to sales. "People were persistent in bringing this problem to This area was the focus of CAPS Beat Team 2424. 46 years old—face criminal charges including criminal the attention of police. This was a perfect response to the "We’ve been working on this problem for a number of drug conspiracy and possession of a controlled sub- problem." years," reported beat team chair Dane Ronvik. "Initially stance. A conviction for criminal drug conspiracy results The power of CAPS is its ability to bring together we met with business owners looking for a reduction of in a 6 to 30-year sentence. resources to improve safety in Rogers Park and other loitering and drug sales in the area." Ronvik added that During the operation, police made 19 undercover communities. Congratulations to officers of Rogers Park’s although businesses installed gates and "no loitering" drug purchases, seizing $5,500 in cash, 8 guns and 42 24th District and Evanston Police for their attack on illegal signs, dealers were "very savvy and street smart". grams of crack cocaine. Additional weapons and drugs drugs in our neighborhood! CPD initiated Operation Border Patrol early in May. were seized December 5, Several arrests were made in the area, indicating clearly including a .45 caliber that drug activity was an ongoing problem. David V. machine gun, 9mm Ruger, a Boggs (24th District commander) asked the CPD nar- silencer, 40 grams of cotics division to focus on drug trafficking and the players cannabis and five rocks of involved in street dealing. crack cocaine. By infiltrating According to Lt. Michael Fitzgerald (also of the 24th the gang, police learned that district), "offenders started to wise up after the first drug dealers were willing to arrests. They would keep smaller amounts of drugs in trade narcotics for guns. their mouths. When police approached, they’d swallow it." The U.S. Bureau of Alcohol, It is believed that dealers later regurgitated to get the Tobacco, Firearms and drugs back. Explosives (ATF) is helping Sgt. Sanchez conducted the investigation for Rogers with the investigation by Park’s 24th District. Undercover narcotic officers made tracing recovered weapons. controlled buys that were filmed. Chicago and Evanston "Building these drug police officers made identifications from the films which conspiracy cases takes facilitated the arrests. time, but they’re worth the One of the offenders attempted to bribe a police offi- effort," said Risley. "One-by- cer with guns early in the investigation. Police docu- one, we’ll go after these mented the attempted bribery and charges were filed drug markets and take them against a 22-year-old Chicago female. down." "Surveillance of the area showed that the drug activ- CPD superintendent Morse Avenue Train Station "Adopted" by RPCDC by Artis Q. Wright

ogers Park Community At the end of December, RPCDC will Development Corporation (RPCDC) submit a portfolio of local artwork to CTA. R is participating in the Chicago Transit If all goes as planned, the Morse Avenue Authority (CTA) "Adopt-A-Station" program Creative Space will open to the public in by adopting the Morse Avenue "el" station, February. Artwork is the first phase in a major gateway into our neighborhood RPCDC’s multi-year adoption plan. The that is used by thousands of travelers each second phase will include additional art- day. CTA estimates that in an average work and a mural designed by Cuentos (a month, the station has an "entering rider- Rogers Park art gallery and design space). ship" of over 109,900 people. Under the The mural—to adorn a wall near the sta- adoption program, RPCDC will establish tion entrance that has remained blank for the "Morse Avenue Creative Space"—a years—will be painted by local students public gallery of artwork by Rogers Park under the stewardship of a professional artists, theatres and galleries that cele- muralist. brate the beauty, spirit and diversity of our community. Photographs, paintings and Artis Q. Wright serves as associate director of drawings will be prominently displayed in RPCDC. Call 773.338.7732 ext. 20 for further station entrances and walkways. details. 12 ROGERS PARK 2000 RP2000 Youth Journalism Program Kicks Off Rogers Park 2000 is pleased to announce the forma- Vallarta Quiroz and Ana Coronel. Quiroz also prepared New Field School, Daniel Boone Elementary School, tion of a new youth journalism program co-sponsored a report in Spanish, which appears on page ***. Other George Armstrong Elementary School, Roger C. with Mayor Daley’s KidStart/YouthNet 24th District, participating students are Chris Saunders, Maria Sullivan High School, Jordan Community School, Philip Roger C. Sullivan High School and Howard Area Hernandez, Lobsong Dolma and Tenzin Sonam. Sullivan Rogers Elementary School and Joyce Kilmer Elementary Community Center. Under the program, high-school English teacher Naomi Nakayama was instrumental in School. A sampling of "Principal for a Day" activities students compile information, conduct interviews and coordinating details. appears on these pages. write articles covering local school happenings and other "Principal for a Day" took place October 29 at pub- To participate in the RP2000 youth journalism pro- issues. Following is our first installment. lic schools citywide. Nine Rogers Park schools hosted gram, call 773.338.7722 ext. 11. Contributors to this local school report include visiting principals, including Stephen F. Gale Sullivan freshman Ramon S. Leon, and seniors Araceli Community Academy, Eugene Field Elementary School, Great School in Need of Building Improvements By Ana Coronel

aniel Boone Elementary School (6710 N. also working on a design for the new playground Boone and enlarge their size. Washtenaw Ave.) is known for being one of the is trying to build. The playground that they have is run Besides improving student education, Boone is also D largest multi-cultural schools in the city. There are down and the slide is broken. The school needs $15,000 working to improve parent education. There are comput- about 40 different languages spoken at Boone. That is in order to build the new playground. Boone is receiving er classes, English classes and GED classes offered to why Boone emphasizes the importance of art. "Students support from anyone willing to help. all parents. Boone also sponsors a domestic violence express themselves through art," stated Gail Locke, The drama class puts on two productions every year. support group. Boone art teacher. "Art is something everyone can One takes place during winter time and the other one in Besides needing money for a new playground, understand regardless of the language they speak." spring. Besides drama productions, there are four board Boone also needs money to buy computers and printers. Every student at Boone takes at least one arts-related assemblies which take place throughout the year. These There are only six computers for students to use. The class every week. It can be either art, drama, gym, music assemblies are meant to teach kids about other cultures. school also needs money for repairs. Being the over- or dance. Boone also has a large selection of sports, Every assembly provides information about a different crowded school that it is, Boone needs money to expand. including cheerleading, pom-poms, basketball, soccer, culture. The library and computer lab share the same room, just etc. Also being offered is a photography class. Students as dance and drama class share the same room. Boone Boone hallways are decorated with drawings stu- work hands-on in this class, using real digital cameras also needs volunteer tutors for students. dents have created to express themselves. Students are which are provided by the school. Students take pictures “Principal for a Day” Draws Three to Jordan Community School By Araceli Vallarta Quiroz

ordan Community School (7414 N. Wolcott Ave.) Jordan’s permanent principal, and from 9:30 to 11am she Northwestern University’s LAUNCH principal preparation was one of the different schools of the Rogers Park read to selected classrooms. At 11am, Wilson met with program). "It brings resources to our school like money, J community to participate in the seventh annual the Jordan administrative team for a briefing of the day’s tutoring and speakers who talk to our students about Chicago Principal for a Day (PFD) event October 29. activities and to discuss partnership development activi- careers and other issues". Both students and the school Mayor Richard M. Daley and Chicago Public Schools ties. benefit from the PFD program and that’s why it’s so chief executive officer Arne Duncan made this year differ- After the staff meeting and classroom visitations, important. ent from the others, challenging PFD volunteers to forge Eckenhoff (who was assigned the intermediate level) long-term partnerships with their schools and give their attended a meeting for the fourth and fifth grades. Then Other Jordan Happenings time to children "not just for a day, but for an entire year", he met in an assembly to speak with students about their PFD was not the only event taking place at Jordan in said Daley. careers and lives. In this assembly, he challenged stu- October. The school’s annual Parent Appreciation Dinner At Jordan, there were three PFD volunteers: Barbara dents to be of good character and achieve academically was held October 15. Guest speakers were Althea Wilson, Walter Eckenhoff and Merry Dee. Each of them at their highest level. He ended his day building partner- Williams (mother of Chicago Bull Jason "Jay" Williams), was assigned a different school cluster but a similar ships with the administrative team of the school. Deloris Jordan (mother of basketball legend and former schedule for the activities for that day. Wilson, credit man- Eckenhoff is principal of Chicago-based Eckenhoff Bull Michael Jordan) and WGN-TV’s Dee. ager of WGN-TV, was assigned to first, second and third Saunders Architects, the firm that designed Jordan. Jordan Community School is the first Chicago Public grades (primary). From 8 to 8:45am she attended a wel- Dee is director of WGN-TV, and she was in charge of School to sponsor the Partners for Antiviolence come reception and staff meeting with the other PFDs the upper school cluster (sixth, seventh and eighth Awareness Community Training (PAACT) program. and Jordan staff, where she had the opportunity to meet grades). She did the same activities as Eckenhoff but in Students in grades 6 through 8 attended an assembly and talk with small groups of teachers about issues perti- a different sequence. "This program (PFD) gives an which included a demonstration of self-defense moves nent to public education and Jordan. After this meeting, opportunity to built partnerships with business and com- and a martial arts demonstration by Iron Fist International she visited the classrooms with Dr. Maurice Harvey, munity leaders" said Willie White III (a participant of (3845 N. Broadway). Both Field Schools Participate in “Principal for a Day” By Ramon S. Leon

rincipal for a Day" is a plans to keep in touch with the principals about donations For the rest of the morning, Cade discussed terms and program that allows to help support the school. agreements of Computers for Schools with Cavey, who “P Chicago businesses to described the day as an A+. "It couldn’t have gone bet- visit and foster long-term New Field School ter," she said. relationships with Chicago public A few blocks down the street, New Field Elementary A few days before, Ald. Joe Moore (49th ward), schools. Principal for a Day was (1707 W. Morse Ave.) was enjoying its own Principal for Jacqueline Hui (librarian, Chicago Public Library Rogers started in 1998 by Mayor Richard M. a Day program. "Principals" for New Field included Willie Park branch), and Mary Dempsey (library commissioner) Daley. Participants volunteer at the Cade (president of Computers for Schools) and former unveiled a new reading garden with a ceremonial cutting. designated school for half a day and alderman David Orr. According to Dr. Mary Cavey, per- And back at Eugene Field Elementary, a Greet and Meet go to a luncheon with the Mayor at the Chicago Hilton and manent principal of New Field, "Principal for a Day is an breakfast took place October 30 (the day after "Principal Towers. Last year, approximately 1,300 volunteers par- opportunity for students to see people from various for a Day"). "Greet and Meet" allows Chicago’s business- ticipated in Principal for a Day. careers, ranging from athletes to presidents of compa- es to visit Field Elementary. This is the first year for the nies.” Greet and Meet breakfast, which assistant principal Otis Eugene Field Elementary Cade offered to sponsor a program for New Field. Dunson enjoyed. Both events allow Chicagoland busi- This year, Eugene Field Elementary (7019 N. Computers for Schools offers refurbished computers (with nesses to encounter Chicago public schools and even Ashland Ave.) hosted a total of 10 principals, ranging from Windows 98 and MS Works 6.0) for sale to students and foster relationships that might carry on throughout entire lawyers to city employees. The day started with a break- their families for a small fee. Cade also donated several lifetimes or generations. fast meeting with teaching staff to introduce the principals network cables that allow connection to the internet. This was what Mayor Daley was aiming for when he to the working crew of Field. After the breakfast, princi- The day started at New Field with a meeting of originally started Principal for a Day back in May of 1998. pals were led on a tour by two Field students. Some prin- "Golden Teacher Mentors" and teaching staff. After the And year after year, more and more participants volunteer cipals decided to sit in on a lesson being taught, while staffing the "Principals" were taken on a tour, which con- for Principal for a Day, whether it’s to sit in on a class or others chose to give a career lecture to students. Field cluded in time to greet students coming into the building. give an important career lecture to the future of Chicago. ROGERS PARK 2000 13 Stephen F. Gale Community Academy Hosts Principal for a Day and Offers Diverse Student Programs By Ana Coronel

tephen F. Gale Community Academy (1631 W. The Seabury Foundation and the Chicago Film Jonquil Terrace) had three principals for "Principal Festival made it possible for Gale Students (from second S for a Day". These principals came October 29: Ald. to eighth grade) to attend the Chicago International Film Joe Moore (49th ward), Fran Preston (vice president/sta- Festival in October. There were four free buses provided tion manager of WBBM-TV Channel 2), and Fanny and free tickets for all students and teachers who attend- Zeddies (a trustee of Seabury Foundation). These princi- ed the festival. pals visited Gale’s chess team and several classrooms: Gale students are also involved in after-school activ- Mrs. Halliday in room 210, Ms. Alcabez in 108 and Mr. ities. Greensleeves offers homework hour, hands-on Rosales in 107 (both bilingual classrooms), Mrs. Raffel in activities and nature walks to young children from 2:30 to 204, Ms. Wilson in 102 and Mrs. Jonas in 106. They also 5pm. Mayor Daley’s KidStart YouthNet 24th District offers took a tour of the east building where fifth graders are homework study groups, physical activities and trips located and a tour of the west building where eighth (including Great America, which took place October 24). graders are located. These principals met teachers The Good News Reading Program offers one-on-one together with students. tutoring to all students. There is also the "Big Brothers, Big Sisters" mentoring program which offers conflict res- Also at Gale olution, education and life-skills building. Norman Polk, A program helping students while they have fun is Rogers Park Community Council’s youth intervention Participants (from left) of the Rogers Park 2000 Youth "Sit Stay Read!" During this program, students get a director, offers tutoring, recreation, field trips and mentor- Journalism Program include Sullivan High School students book and begin reading to dogs. ing to Gale students from fourth to eighth grade. Araceli Vallarta Quiroz, Chris Saunders and Ana Coronel. There was a Book Fair at Gale November 10 to 24. English teacher Naomi Nakayama (right) assisted in coordi- Students and parents were able to buy books. nating the program. ACCESS Evanston-Rogers Park Family Health Center Provides Quality Care to Those in Need By Kathleen McGowan Gruber

CCESS Evanston-Rogers Park Family Health these children go to school and experience problems ents to impart a love of reading to their children. (Children Center (1555 W. Howard St.) continues to serve as learning. By then, lead poisoning has irreparably affected who attended an annual ROR celebration held over the A a voice for community health and meet healthcare their cognitive and behavioral development. While it is summer received free copies of the book, Read To Your needs of the under and un-insured. possible to remove traces of lead from our biological sys- Bunny.) Two major health problems affecting women and chil- tems, damage to the brain is permanent. Teens at Sullivan High School will soon be able to dren of Rogers Park—childhood lead poisoning, and HACC also sponsors lead mitigation training for meet with ACCESS medical providers at the School breast and cervical cancer—have recently been tackled building owners and contractors. This one day program in Based Health Center (SBHC), scheduled to open in the by ACCESS. In order to increase community awareness lead-safe work practices is presented at no cost. near future. ACCESS has been planning SBHC proof lead poisoning of our children, ACCESS and Howard Attendees typically include contractors undertaking reno- grams with community partners Trilogy (Child and Area Community Center (HACC) sponsored a booth at vation or remodeling projects where lead-based paint Adolescent Services), BE-HIV and Chicago Public this fall’s Rogers Park Farmers Market. Visitors, who might be present, maintenance workers, landlords and Schools. were encouraged to have children tested for lead levels, do-it-yourself homeowners. (For more information on Patient visits to ACCESS are on the rise, with a total received lead poisoning prevention education and lead poisoning prevention, call Monica Dillon at of 16,000 patient visits recorded last year. In order to screening. 773.761.8324.) continue sponsoring special programs/events and serving According to recent data from the Center for Disease Breast and cervical cancer hit minority women hard patient needs, ACCESS applied for and was granted fed- Control, the city of Chicago contains the highest environ- in our community. While occurrences of these two dis- eral money which will be used to expand its staff of med- mental lead levels of the entire country. Unfortunately, eases are actually higher in Caucasian women, women of ical providers and provide longer hours of service. Rogers Park has the third highest lead levels of any color have a higher rate of fatality because their cancer is ACCESS Community Health Network has operated neighborhood in the city. detected in later, more lethal stages. For the second year, medical services at 1555 W. Howard since September of At the season’s last market (Harvest/All Hallow’s Eve ACCESS Evanston-Rogers Park has been awarded a 2000. Prior to then, the staff had provided medical care, celebration) on October 18, Northwestern University stu- grant from the State of Illinois Breast and Cervical Cancer dental and pharmacy services for more than twenty dents presented a program on lead and its impact on the Prevention Program (IBCCP), which pays for regular pap years. environment. These freshmen had worked over the sum- smears and mammograms for women who qualify. (For mer studying the chemical and biological processes that more information on breast/cervical cancer prevention, occur when lead is absorbed by the human body and call Debra Brunk at 773.764.7146). Based at the ACCESS Evanston-Rogers Park Family Health retained in its tissues. For example, infants who crawl Children often visit ACCESS Evanston-Rogers Park Center (773.764.7146), Kathleen McGowan Gruber is commu- about the home putting various objects in their mouths for school and well-child exams. As the facility partici- nity program manager for ACCESS Community Health are in real danger of being poisoned by lead dust that falls pates in the Reach Out and Read (ROR) program, some Network. Gruber helped ACCESS to establish the Evanston- from window wells, landing on floors or objects. Lead children don’t even mind coming to see the doctor! ROR Rogers Park Family Health Center in September 2000. She absorbed at early ages (while the brain is still developing) is a national literacy program that provides free books to enjoys serving our diverse community and patronizing restau- creates terrible damage that remains uncovered until children under five, and assists doctors in coaching par- rants and other venues in Rogers Park. Recycle Plus: Rogers Park’s Very Own Recycling Service

ecycle Plus in Rogers Park has offered recycling tomers also regularly receive a newsletter of useful tips home and office furniture—cabinets, desks, computer services since June 1990. The company picks up and information. "Many everyday things (like yogurt con- stands, metal shelving, partitions, tables and stacking R paper, cardboard, metals, glass, plastic and other tainers) can be re-used to cut down on the amount of chairs. Supplies include art paper, foam and poster board, recyclables for approximately 300 residential and commer- garbage we produce," he says. "Egg cartons and card- wood, plywood and recycled boxes (suitable for moving cial customers—one-third of whom are located in Rogers board towel or tissue rolls can be donated to schools and and shipping). "All items in our inventory are available at Park. Clients include home and condo owners, small and daycare centers for kids to make crafts with." Recycle Plus extremely low prices," Zuckerman explains. Monthly recy- mid-size businesses, and nonprofit organizations such as donates such items and art supplies to local schools and cling rates for 2004 (including pickup several times a schools, churches and synagogues. youth organizations. month and containers) start at $25 for residential service; Recycle Plus supplies clients with a certificate of recy- The newsletter also suggests opting for "solid" items $35 for commercial service. cling (to show compliance with the city’s recycling ordi- such as cloth rags and real dishes instead of disposables. For information about Recycle Plus products and ser- nance). "Few people know that recycling is in fact manda- Use of styrofoam and other non-biodegradable materials vices, call 773.761.5937. The Chicago Department of tory for businesses and buildings with three or more units," should be avoided whenever possible. Streets and Sanitation recycling hotline may be reached at says company president Gary Zuckerman, whose cus- Recycle Plus carries an inventory of many kinds of 312.744.1614. 14 ROGERS PARK 2000 Rogers Park Community Council Honors “Making an Impact” at 52nd continued from page 1

Goldberg’s most recent violence meets after an incident. They are the ones who effort to improve the quality provide the first light in the doorway to living free of vio- of life in Rogers Park lence. We thank them for opening their world to working involves joining with neigh- with outsiders. We thank them for providing professional borhood activists to create police services when responding to calls for help, for tak- Friends of Beth Sholom. ing the time to complete referral cards and for providing Initially, a local business help to families in crisis who need someone to intervene. expressed interest in using We thank Apna Ghar—Chicago’s only residential Congregation Beth program focusing resources on domestic violence sur- Sholom’s parking lot. The vivors from Asian cultures. Apna Ghar provides shelter need for massive physical and counseling services for women and children, offering improvements to the build- tremendous resources to our community. ing became evident during We thank Centro Romero for their work within the conversations with congre- Spanish-speaking community. Centro Romero’s staff and gation members. Today, volunteers provide counseling, advocacy and access to Goldberg and approximate- resources. They have been instrumental in working on ly 30 volunteers are working issues relating to immigration, and are strong advocates to improve the building. for the families in our community. Accepting the Citizen of the Year award on behalf of Al Goldberg was Mary Bao (left), pictured Congregation Beth We thank the Council for Jewish Elderly (CJE) Crime with Goldberg’s parents, Irvin and Dorothy. Sholom is Rogers Park’s Victim/Witness Assistance program for providing criminal last synagogue and an justice advocacy to survivors of violent crime over the age important part of our tradition of diversity. Goldberg and Area Community Center and Horizons Anti-Violence of 60. CJE, one of our original partners in this initiative, other dedicated volunteers are working hard to maintain a Project. In Chicago’s 20th and 24th Police Districts, provides a comprehensive menu of programs for our Jewish presence in our neighborhood. In addition to agencies are working together to ensure that opportuni- elder community. "hands on" demolition and clean-up, the group has orga- ties and resources exist for survivors of violent crime. We thank Friends of Battered Women and their nized classes in teaching the kabbalah (the spiritual foun- Tonight we recognize the VCVA program for creating Children for providing a 24-hour hotline to survivors of dation of Jewish practice) under Rabbi Hershy Worch. opportunities for the neighbors of Rogers Park to live free domestic violence as well as counseling and criminal jus- The work at Congregation Beth Sholom of Rogers of violence. (Accepting on behalf of Attorney General tice advocacy. Friends is not only one of our first partners Park has been an act of love. A fire in the temple last Lisa Madigan was Jennifer Kuhn, Chief of the Crime in this intervention initiative, but an active partner in the month presented a setback, but these volunteers are Victims Services Division.) VASP Employment Counseling program. committed to moving forward. "Doing the physical schlep We thank the Horizons Anti-Violence Project for its work—you feel really good," says Goldberg. "It’s like holy Domestic Violence Intervention Partners: Chicago work with the lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender com- work. Doing the work without strings attached and with- Police Department, Apna Ghar, Centro Romero, munity. Many times, a survivor of domestic violence is out knowing the outcome is very gratifying!" Council for Jewish Elderly, Friends of Battered afraid to step forward, for fear of discovery of their sexual Goldberg could not be here tonight. In honor of his Women and Their Children, Horizons orientation. Horizons provides a support system to help silver wedding anniversary, he has taken his bride on a In 1993, our Victim Advocacy Support Program these survivors escape abuse. "second honeymoon"—a European tour of Amsterdam, (VASP) developed an innovative collaboration with the The long-term impact of our work can be seen as vic- Hungary, Austria, the Czech Republic and Slovakia. Chicago Police Department’s 24th District. Through tims become survivors, and build new lives for them- Goldberg and wife Cookie share great pride of their police order, every time a police officer is called to the selves and their families. Through partnership, we can daughters: Julia, who in December receives her masters home of a domestic violence incident, officers complete a boast that domestic violence-related cases have in education from the University of Colorado; and Rachel, referral card. a freshman of liberal arts at University of Iowa. Rogers Park Community Council is honored to recognize Alan Goldberg as the 2003 Citizen of the Year. He is truly a renaissance man—committed to his profession, his faith and his community.

Violent Crime Victim Assistance Program Illinois Attorney General Lisa Madigan The Illinois Violent Crime Victims Assistance (VCVA) Act was enacted in January 1984, creating a funding resource for centers that provide assistance to victims and witnesses of violent crime. Through this funding, a

Rogers Park Community Council’s Victim Advocacy Support Program (VASP) celebrates 10 years of "Intervention, Information and Advocacy". The VASP team includes (left to right) employment counselor Sharon Wilson, director Dana Doffin, and court advocates Maria Kot, Yvette Ayala and Elizabeth Burnside.

Illinois Attorney General Lisa Madigan is committed to ensur- VASP retrieves referrals every business day and decreased significantly in our community. We can revel ing that survivors of crime and abuse have access to crucial makes contact with the victim—offering crisis counseling, that a system designed to protect is strengthened by your services. information on rights under the Illinois Domestic Violence commitment and your passion. Tonight, we honor our Act, assistance in getting orders of protection, court advo- community partners for their help setting Rogers Park statewide network was created to offer these victims and cacy and transportation to court. families on the path to violence-free living. witnesses a faster and more complete recovery from the During the summer of 2000, one abuser torched his effects of violent crime. car with his wife in it as she screamed for help. State Hispanic Housing Development Corporation Since then, the Violent Crime Victims Assistance pro- Representative Harry Osterman (14th District) was horri- On September 16, Hispanic Housing Development gram has distributed more than $50 million in grants to fied by the act and called upon RPCC to expand its Corporation (HHDC) celebrated the grand opening of hundreds of community-based and government-based domestic violence program into the 20th District. Working Gateway Centre Apartments (7450 N. Rogers Ave.) with organizations. Attorney General Lisa Madigan is working with Commander David Boggs of the 24th District and a ribbon-cutting ceremony. The event marked the cre- hard to increase collections in the VCVA program to Commander Dugan of the 20th District, VASP received its ation of 120 units of affordable rental housing for Rogers ensure that thousands of violent crime survivors are pro- first referral from 20th District officers in October of 2001. Park seniors. This $17 million investment in our commu- vided with the direct services they need. Working with police and receiving referrals is only the nity provides quality studio, one and two-bedroom apart- The impact of the VCVA program in Rogers Park is first step in assuring that victims of domestic violence ments for seniors who want to live independently and tremendous. Rogers Park Community Council’s Victim become survivors who are able to live free of violence. remain in our neighborhood. Advocacy Support Program (VASP) was one of the first Tonight, this room is filled with individuals and agencies The construction project was funded through low- recipients of the grant in 1985. The grant has resulted in that make a difference every day in the lives of these income housing tax credits, City of Chicago HOME and a community collaboration that has worked to improve women and children, and we thank them for their dedica- ARC funds, Illinois Housing Development Authority trust survivors’ experiences within the criminal justice system. tion and spirit of partnership. funds and loans from Manufacturer’s Bank and Federal Other local beneficiaries of this program include First, we thank the officers of Chicago Police Home Loan Bank. Apna Ghar, Centro Romero, Council for Jewish Elderly, Department’s 24th and 20th Districts. These men and HHDC’s goal was to erect a building that comple- Friends of Battered Women and their Children, Howard women are usually the first people a victim of domestic mented the neighborhood. Large bay windows substan- ROGERS PARK 2000 15 Al Goldberg and Community Partners Annual Meeting and Gala

A Message from the President Making an Impact in Rogers Park—it’s about making a difference. Tonight, we recognize the special efforts that neighbors, businesses and organizations have made to improve life in our community.

As president of the Rogers Park Community Council, I have the unique opportunity to work with neighborhood leadership—many are in this room tonight. I’d like to con- gratulate each of you for a job well done—Rogers Park is stronger today because of your hard work.

I’d be remiss if I didn’t acknowledge that tonight we’re also celebrating the 10-year anniversary of our domestic Gateway Centre Apartments (7450 N. Rogers Ave.) is Hispanic Housing’s new $17 million apartment building targeted at the violence police project: Intervention, Information and near-elderly population (55-plus). A ribbon-cutting ceremony took place Sept. 16. Advocacy.

tially increased construction costs but offered residents Realty, she is a master at marketing our community and We met Dana Nate Doffin seven years ago when she vol- light and air. Red brick construction and a landscaped its housing stock. unteered with CAPS. Her energy and enthusiasm were parking lot and courtyard provide a campus feeling to the On October 4, Abels and her staff celebrated the infectious. We invited her to become the Director of the development. The building is designed to offer quality Grand Opening of new offices located at 1225 W. Morse Victim Advocacy Support Program—and have never housing to people of mixed income, with rents ranging Ave. As usual, Abels’ celebration was about more than looked back. from $350 to $850 per month. Professional management just her own business—it was also a way to show off services, laundry facilities, weight room, health room and some of the new happenings on Morse. She timed the When this project was born 10 years ago, a busy month a community room with large screen TV offer on-site grand opening to coincide with the Glenwood Avenue Arts meant following up on five referrals from the Chicago amenities for residents. Festival and the introduction of Morseland, a new restau- Rogers Park Community Council honors HHDC’s rant soon to open across the street. Police Department. Just this last month, Sharon Wilson— investment in the affordable housing stock available to our Abels leased (with an option to buy) the ground-level our domestic violence employment counselor—worked community. It is through their commitment that Rogers store front for the sales and business offices of Re/Max with 25 women in their efforts to attain self-sufficiency Park is able to offer 120 new homes to the near-elderly NorthCoast Realty which specializes in residential, devel- through employment. and elderly community. opment and investment real estate. The building is undergoing conversion to loft apartments upstairs. This venture VASP court advocates Elizabeth Burnside, Maria Kot and Marty Max was both a construction challenge and an act of love. It Yvette Ayala provided outreach and assistance to 108 vic- Many of you have probably heard the story of "The provides a home to 16 sales agents and administrative tims of domestic battery, advocated in 37 criminal court Lost Boys of Sudan"—a group of young men forced from staff, and creates a business anchor for the east portion hearings and helped women receive 37 orders of protec- their homeland because of ongoing religious war. of Morse Avenue. tion. During the first 10 months of this year alone, domes- Last year, some of the Lost Boys and representatives Re/Max offices are located well within view of daily tic violence incidents reported to the 24th District of the from St Paul’s Church by-the-Lake spoke at a Rogers passers-by. "One of our greatest assets here is the win- Park Builders Group meeting, telling their unbelievable Chicago Police Department have decreased more than 12 story. At the end of the presentation, the church asked for percent over last year, resulting in 208 less victims! And in assistance to create a computer lab which could provide the 20th District there has been nearly a 4 percent decrease, the young men with a place to improve employment skills, resulting in 29 less victims during the first nine months of as well as communicate with family and friends left this year. behind. Marty Max, who serves as vice president of the The staff of the Victim Advocacy Support Program regu- Rogers Park Builders Group, was at that meeting and larly face some of life’s most difficult and dangerous situa- said to himself, "Maybe I can help." tions with compassion, respect and direct action to prevent And he did just that. repeated incidents of abuse. Daily, they reach out to victims Marty Max is the owner of MLC Properties and man- of violent crime and provide the ear of someone who ages 150 units of rental housing in Rogers Park. His management philosophy is "Communication in every way understands, who cares and who is committed to making a possible. If there’s a problem, I want them (tenants) to difference! come to us!" Max keeps a "hands on management team" on-site in one of the buildings and tries to visit each of the They help victims navigate a confusing and frightening four buildings every day. "Our goal is to take care of any legal system, obtain safe housing arrangements, and enter problem within 24 hours," he says. Connie Abels (right), president of Re/Max NorthCoast Realty, the workforce to gain independence from their abusers. Being a problem solver, Max decided to make some- poses with executive administrator Sue Nagy, a 14-year veter- thing happen at St. Paul’s. He offered the equipment and an of that real-estate operation. Abels recently relocated It is with deepest appreciation that on behalf of the board of manpower necessary to help the church convert a leaky Re/Max NorthCoast—honored as Rogers Park’s Business of directors of the Rogers Park Community Council, I say basement area into a computer learning center. The fire the Year—to 1225 W. Morse. thank you to the staff of the Victim Advocacy Support inside him made him want to help. Program: Dana Doffin, Elizabeth Burnside, Sharon Wilson, Marty’s crew worked to install walls and fixtures in the new center. They painted and installed carpeting and dows for marketing client properties. It will make an inter- Maria Kot and Yvette Ayala. doors, making it a pleasant place to work. Today, the Lost esting space to celebrate the passing seasons," says Boys use the space for skill building. They also feel a lit- Abels. Sincerely, tle closer to home when they are able to send and receive Behind those windows you will find a woman with a emails to their friends and families in Sudan. (See story smile to welcome you and a professional sales staff to on St. Paul’s Computer Learning Center, page 36.) work with you. The design of the offices is contemporary, Max’s compassion and willingness to take action functional and fun—reflecting the owner’s energy and demonstrates what one person can do when he has the personality. The space is creative and offers individual will to make things happen. Tonight, we thank him for his offices with private areas to negotiate deals, hidden stor- community partnership and efforts to make Rogers Park age places (for tons of required documentation!) and a a great place to live. small conference room for when an office just won’t do. Donald Rankins Tonight we honor Connie Abels and Re/Max RE/MAX North Coast Realty NorthCoast Realty as Rogers Park’s Business of the Year. President of the Board Connie Abels Abels’ passion for Rogers Park is evident in the enthusi- Rogers Park Community Council Connie Abels is one of Rogers Park’s greatest cheer- asm she brings to making our neighborhood a great place leaders. Not only is she the owner of Re/Max NorthCoast to live, work and raise a family. 16 ROGERS PARK 2000 Charlotte Goldberg—A Citizen for all Times

In 1998, the Rogers Park Community Council ing our street-end beaches, establishing Warren Park and to praise, to laugh, to cry, to be human. She was the kind (RPCC) named its Citizen of the Year Award in honor of initiating Chicago's first Housing Action Program. of person who always told the truth. Charlotte Goldberg to reflect the history of one of our If there was one characteristic that clearly defined And so, in honor of Charlotte’s legacy, RPCC calls strongest advocates. Goldberg, it was her fierce, loyal passion for Rogers its most prestigious honor the "Charlotte Goldberg Charlotte Goldberg served on the RPCC’s board of Park. Her second great characteristic was persistence. Citizen of the Year Award". The tribute recognizes spe- the directors and was later hired as its first staff member. The community had a true friend and advocate in cial people, organizations or groups for their efforts to Under her leadership, the organization undertook major Charlotte. make Rogers Park "a great place to live, work and raise community initiatives that continue today—such as sav- She was never afraid to love, to question, to criticize, a family".

Making an Impact in Rogers Park

Rogers Park Community Council would like to thank the Silent Auction Donors Loews Cineplex (Hillside) sponsors who made our 52nd Annual Meeting such a American Theatre Company (1909 W. Byron) Monastero’s Ristorante (3935 W. Devon) tremendous success. Ann Sather Restaurants (929 W. Belmont) Moody’s Pub (5910 N. Broadway) Black Ensemble Theater (4520 N. Beacon) Murphy’s Fit, Inc. (513 Dempster, Evanston) Neighborhood Defenders Café Luciano (2676 Green Bay, Evanston) Museum of Contemporary Art (220 E. Chicago) Dominick’s Capt’n Nemo’s (7367 N. Clark Street) Museum of Science & Industry (57th Street & LSD) First Commercial Bank Chicago Architecture Foundation (224 S. Michigan) Newberry Library (60 W. Walton) Loyola University Chicago Chicago BlackHawks (1901 W. Madison) Next Theatre Co. (927 Noyes, Evanston) Re/Max NorthCoast Realty Chicago Brauhaus (4732-34 N. Lincoln) PARA Dice Hotel & Casino (East Peoria) Chicago Bulls (1901 W. Madison) Pegasus Players/Truman College (1145 W. Wilson) Community Advocates Chicago Children's Museum (700 E. Grand) Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum (2430 N. Cannon) Baird & Warner Chicago Cubs (1060 W. Addison) Pick-Staiger Concert Hall (625 Colfax, Evanston) The Devon Bank Chicago Historical Society Radiance Yoga & Wellness (5412 N. Clark) Gullivers Restaurant Columbia College Theatre Center (72 E. 11th) Ritz Camera (Beltsville) Markle Development DePaul University Merle Reskin Theatre (60 E. Balbo) John G. Shedd Aquarium (1200 S. Lake Shore) Rogers Park Builders Group ETA Creative Arts Foundation (7558 S. Chicago) Spirit of Chicago (455 E. Illinois) Fireside Restaurant (5739 N. Ravenswood) The Second City (1616 N. Wells) Council Friends Fitzpatrick Hotel Group (166 East Superior) Theatre Building (1225 W. Belmont) Alan Goldberg & Cookie Gluck Giordano’s (308 W. Randolph) Tommy Gun’s Garage (1239 S. State) CIG Management Good’s of Evanston (714 Main, Evanston) Tony ‘n Tina’s Wedding (230 W. North) Cyrus Development Corporation Gullivers Restaurant (2727 W. Howard) Victory Gardens Theater (2257 N. Lincoln) Representative Louis Lang Lakeshore Athletic Club (441 N. Wabash) Wishbone (1001 W. Washington) Representative Harry Osterman Lettuce Entertain You (5419 N. Sheridan) Zanies Comedy Club (1548 N. Wells) Marty Max Lifeline Theatre (6912 N. Glenwood)

Intervention, Information and Advocacy A Profile of Domestic Violence Partners in the Chicago Police Department 20th and 24th Districts

Apna Ghar Council for Jewish Elderly’s Crime Victim/Witness ing violence prevention program. Friends’ philosophy is Apna Ghar is a domestic violence agency that pri- Assistance Program to provide a safe, violence-free, supportive, self-help marily serves South Asian women and children. Its name Experiencing or witnessing a crime is traumatic environment for women and children in crisis. For more is derived from a Hindi-Urdu phrase meaning "Our enough, without having to worry about what happens information, call 773.274.5232. Home". Apna Ghar’s mission is to provide comprehen- afterwards. Council for Jewish Elderly (CJE) created its sive, multi-lingual and multi-cultural services to women Crime Victim/Witness Assistance Program to assist Horizons Anti-Violence Project seeking to live free of domestic violence. Chicago residents age 60-plus with immediate needs Horizons Community Services Apna Ghar was established in response to increased after a crime (purse-snatching, pick pocketing, mugging, Lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender victims of reports of emotional, physical and sexual abuse and etc). domestic violence are confronted with a multitude of desertion occurring in Asian-American families. The Services include support, replacement of ID cards, complex issues that extend beyond those faced by their agency operates a 24-hour hotline and shelter, and pro- filing of claims under Illinois Crime Victims heterosexual counterparts. Among these are lack of provides counseling, art and movement therapy, case man- Compensation Act, courtroom assistance, advocacy and grams and services to meet their specific needs; lack of agement, legal advocacy, translation and supervised legal referral. The program also provides safety educa- properly trained service providers, law enforcement offi- child visitation. Approximately 100 women walk tion to address specific crime/safety issues affecting cials and shelter staff; and homophobia and heterosexism through the doors of Apna Ghar each month. For more seniors. For more information, call 773.508.1000 of the larger culture, which complicates decisions to information, call 773.334.1073 access services, to pursue legal recourse, and even to Friends of Battered Women and their Children acknowledge that domestic violence is occurring. Centro Romero The mission of Friends of Battered Women and Established in 1988, the Anti-Violence Project Centro Romero’s Women’s Program—targeted to Their Children (Friends) is to provide alternatives to (AVP) provides programs and services to lesbian, gay, the Spanish-speaking population—takes a four-fold abused women and their children who are survivors of bisexual, transgender and HIV+ survivors of domestic approach to women’s issues: direct client services, lead- violence, to increase public awareness of domestic vio- violence, hate crimes, sexual assault and police miscon- ership development, community education/outreach, and lence, and to aid in the prevention of domestic violence duct. AVP takes a holistic approach to ending discrimi- collaboration with fellow service-providers. Services to in future generations. nation and violence. Project services include a 24-hour survivors of domestic violence include group and indi- Established in 1986, Friends created the first crisis hotline, care management services, legal and med- vidual counseling and legal advocacy. On-site child care statewide, toll-free crisis line for battered women. ical advocacy, court accompaniment, assistance in is provided to women while participating in programs. Today, Friends’ comprehensive programs/services acquiring victim compensation, individual counseling For more information, call 773.508.5300. include a 24-hour crisis line (800.603.HELP), counseling and support groups. Horizons Community Services for women survivors and their children, court advocacy, (soon to be known as "The Center on Halsted") may be employment counseling, and community education, reached at 773.472.6469. including healthcare education and an extensive teen dat- ROGERS PARK 2000 17 18 ROGERS PARK 2000 NEWS FOR SENIORS Home-Sharing Program Gains Momentum as Affordable Housing Option By Marilyn Grinager Mason

lthough this is not its first go-around in Chicago, the for other bills. Home-sharing is thus an increasingly clear indication of each person’s responsibilities. Home Sharing program has recently returned to attractive option for the elderly (and other age groups), as One match was recently made just south of Rogers A the city through a grant from Chicago Department waiting lists for subsidized housing can stretch many Park at Sheridan Road and Bryn Mawr Avenue. A 73- on Aging (CDOA). The senior leadership group of north- years into the future. year-old woman whose 81-year-old husband is in early side agency Northwest Neighborhood Federation (NNF) The Home Sharing program provides independence, stages of dementia sought the help of a seeker, a young sought to join forces with Park Ridge-based Center of companionship, financial relief and a sense of security for woman in her 30s who provides respite to the provider. Concern, which has long administered a vibrant Home homeowners and home seekers alike. The basic princi- The seeker does not pay rent in exchange for approxi- Sharing program in the northern suburbs. "We now act as ple is simple: homeowners receive assistance with costs, mately 10 hours a week of service, with primary respon- partners and consultants to NNF," says Eva Gertzfeld, household chores and/or other needs, while home seek- sibility to care for the husband during the provider’s who has served as Center of Concern’s housing coordi- ers gain a decent, affordable place to live. Each pairing is absence. nator for 16 years. "Home Sharing utilizes existing hous- designed to meet the needs of both parties. "Providers" Home Sharing is a viable option for people with many ing stock to assist those on fixed budgets. Without this and "seekers" alike fill out applications listing likes and different housing-related, financial and personal needs. program, many would not live in comfortable, home-like dislikes, specific expectations of a companion and refer- Clients of Mather Lifeways (an Evanston-based organiza- atmospheres," she says. ences (which are thoroughly checked). tion which has provided promotional support to the Home NNF subsequently developed a partnership with The next step is a personal interview with the home- Sharing program) may be entered into the Home-Sharing north-side agency Metropolitan Family Services (MFS) to owner (in the home); individuals seeking a place to live network by calling Mather Info Plus toll-free at provide office space for the Home Sharing program. are usually interviewed at MFS offices, which recently 888.600.2560. When Center of Concern hired Marilyn Grinager Mason relocated to 3249 N. Central Ave. When an appropriate as program coordinator this past March, the program was match is made, the homeowner and seeker get to know Marilyn Grinager Mason, a licensed clinical social worker off and running. each other through a meeting at the owner’s home. If with 17 years of experience working with seniors, has served as Many people over the age of 60 who pay rent and both parties are interested in moving forward, an agree- Home-Sharing program coordinator since March of 2003. other housing costs do not have enough money left over ment intended to meet their needs is prepared to give a Mason may be reached at 773.371.3732.

Hamdard to Dedicate New Facility to Elder Services By Dr. Farzana Hamid

amdard Center for Health and Human Services has lations.’’ case management, transitional housing, domestic vio- established a new location for its COPE Hamdard Center for Health and Human Services lence support, foster care, a depression clinic, and senior H (Community Outreach Program for Elders) pro- (formerly known as the People’s Alliance for Progress) services (including an adult day center) for its target pop- gram, including adult day services, at 1542 W. Devon Ave. was established as a nonprofit organization in 1992 to ulations. Hamdard also offers educational and outreach The 18,000-square-foot, handicapped-accessible facility address critical needs of the South Asian, Middle Eastern programs at its four Chicagoland sites , as well as a 24- will also house an array of culturally and linguistically tai- and Bosnian communities. However, Hamdard’s services hour, toll-free crisis line (866.305.3933). lored services, and serve as the base for all Hamdard are open to all individuals regardless of ethnicity, race, The facility’s grand opening is scheduled to take activities and programs throughout Chicago, including religion, gender, age, income or sexual orientation. place in 2004. For further information on Hamdard ser- administrative offices. Hamdard’s mission is "to promote physical and emo- vices or volunteer opportunities, call 773.465.4600, or "Our mission is to empower our community by pro- tional health and psychological well-being of individuals email [email protected]. viding members with hope, help and healing," says Dr. and families by offering hope, help, and healing." Mohammad Hamid, Hamdard chairman of the board. Through the past 11 years, it has established deep roots "This new facility will greatly enable Hamdard Center to in the community by providing culturally tailored and mul- Dr. Farzana Hamid is co-founder and executive director of meet the growing needs of our underserved target popu- tilingual services: family and individual counseling and Hamdard Center for Health and Human Services.

Loyola University Nursing Center Provides Free Care to Elderly By Pamela Andresen

ndividuals with chronic health problems frequently do not qualify for Medicare-reim- bursable home care. They are often unaware of health and social service agencies in I the community that provide the long-term support necessary for independent living. The Loyola University Nursing Center opened in 1981 to serve residents of the Rogers Park and Edgewater communities, particularly the area’s homebound elderly. Senior- level nursing students from Loyola’s Niehoff School of Nursing provide home care under the supervision of nursing faculty at no charge to clients. Clients are referred for home visits by numerous health, social service and government agencies. Some clients are self-referred or referred by neighbors or family members. A comprehensive nursing assessment is conducted on the initial home visit to identify physical and psychosocial needs. Nursing visits include health assessment and teaching focused not only on health problems (such as hypertension and diabetes) but also prevention of potential problems (such as isolation and falls). Student nurses work with clients in developing systems within the home to enhance compliance with medications and other aspects of a medical regimen. The Loyola University Nursing Center is one part of a large network of agencies serving elderly residents of our community. The nurse serves as case manager, linking clients with community resources, while continuing to provide nursing care in the home. The Loyola University Nursing Center (1052 W. Loyola Ave.) is open Tuesdays through Thursdays, 8:30am to 3:30pm. For more information, contact Pamela Andresen or Ranell Sleman at 773.508.3391.

Pamela Andresen, PhD, RN is Director of the Loyola University Nursing Center and an associate professor of community health nursing at Loyola’s Niehoff School of Nursing. She has worked in community health in the Rogers Park community for 25 years. Final-year nursing student Jessica Shore tends to the needs of a Loyola University Nursing Center patient. ROGERS PARK 2000 19 Opening Doors for Senior Citizens Directory of Resources for Seniors (DORS) Prepared by the Council for Jewish Elderly / Distributed by Rogers Park Community Council COUNCIL FOR JEWISH ELDERLY Council for Jewish Elderly and other care facilities. CJE also offers outpost sites at • Crime assistance 3003 W. Touhy 1528 W. Morse, 1420 W. Farwell, 1345 W. Jarvis, and 6748- • Home-delivered meals (773) 508-1000 50 N. Ashland. • Health Services Council for Jewish Elderly (CJE) is a nonprofit, non- • Holocaust Community Services denominational agency that has served seniors (age 60-plus) • Adult day services • Home health for almost 30 years with an array of direct and referral ser- • Bill paying • Personal services and live-in care vices, as well as educational programs. CJE owns four • Consumer assistance • Senior Housing senior apartment buildings in Rogers Park, one retirement • Consultation residence in Skokie, an assisted-living facility in Deerfield, • Counseling

ROGERS PARK COMMUNITY COUNCIL Rogers Park Community Council familiar surroundings with friends and family in the com- opment of Rogers Park. RPCC has taken public stands relat- 1530 W. Morse Avenue, (773) 338-7722 munity which is "home" to them. ing to zoning, recreational land use and open housing. The mission of the Rogers Park Community Council Housing Action Program---Works with community res- Youth Intervention Program & Rogers Park Youth (RPCC) is to improve the quality of life in Rogers Park idents to intervene and provide advocacy on many housing Network---Afterschool enrichment and counseling pro- through social, civic and education purposes that foster issues. The RPCC maintains a comprehensive database of grams for the children of Rogers Park. urban renewal, law enforcement, health and welfare and housing information and is instrumental in bringing Rogers Park Community Development Corporation community organization. RPCC programs include: resources into the community to preserve our housing. (RPCDC)---Working to create and preserve affordable Senior Initiative Program---A new initiative designed Victim Advocacy Support Program (VASP)---Family housing and economic development opportunities for resi- to reach out to seniors in Rogers Park. Included in this pro- violence is a problem throughout our world and our nation. dents of Rogers Park. The Home Ownership Assistance gram are free home repairs to aid independent living Rogers Park has developed an award-winning program to Center provides first-time buyer and foreclosure prevention (HRAIL) for neighbors 60 years or older. RPCC hires a reduce the incidents of domestic violence in our community. counseling. contractor to make improvements in homes or apartments Community Awareness and Pride Program (CAPP)--- that will enable them to live more comfortably and safely. The organizing arm RPCC; our activities have ranged from The goal is to enable people to remain independent and in demonstrative actions to an overall plan for the future devel- HOWARD AREA COMMUNITY CENTER Howard Area Community Center Programs at the Howard Area Community Center fully certified high school alternative. 7648 N. Paulina, (773) 262-6622 include infant, toddler and early childhood programs such Social Services such as emergency services, legal clin- Howard Area Community Center is a vital and active as HeadStart, home care network, early childhood education ic, dental clinic, seniors program, community health ser- community service agency in the Rogers Park community and parent programs. Education and employment programs vices, energy assistance (LIHEAP), senior and mother/child providing comprehensive social services. The mission of such as English as a second language (ESL) classes, tutor- nutrition, domestic violence assistance, and case manage- the center is to assist low-income residents become self- ing adults, family literacy, job readiness training, after ment are also available. suffient contributors to community life. school programs and high school outreach programs - a CENTRO ROMERO Centro Romero Services that are available at Centro Romero include: include: counseling and support groups, court advocacy, 6216 N. Clark Street, (773) 508-5300 youth learning and leadership such as peer-guided pro- emergency assistance, recreational activities and family Centro Romero has been a neighborhood resource cen- grams, after school enrichment programs, mentoring, art support services; Health Education programs including ter since it’s inception in the 1980’s. Serving the Spanish- and cultural workshops, youth recreation programs; adult HIV/AIDS education, cancer prevention seminars, and speaking members of our community, the center focuses on education such as classes in English as a Second Language healthy nutrition seminars are also available; Legal education. (ESL), first language literacy for Spanish speakers, GED Assistance such as legal representation with family law, per- preparation and citizenship; Women’s project programs sonal finance, and immigration law are also offered.

LEGAL or to reserve a meal, please call (312) 744-4016 or (312) Conrad Sulzer Regional Library American Jewish Congress 744-6777 (TTY) for the hearing impaired. 4455 N. Lincoln Ave., (312) 744-7616 (312) 761-9100, (312) 332-7355 Monday through Thursday 9 am – 9 pm; Friday and Cases accepted on a case-by-case basis. Clients are FOOD PANTRIES Saturday 9 am – 5 pm screened for income and eligibility requirements. The Ark 6450 N. California Ave., (773) 973-1000 CRIME VICTIM ASSISTANCE Lawyers Committee for Better Housing Council for Jewish Elderly -- Crime Victim/Witness 220 S. State Street – Ste 1700, (312) 347-7600 Breakthrough Urban Ministries Assistance Program Legal assistance for tenants experiencing housing problems. 5249 N. Ashland Ave, (773) 989-8353 3003 W. Touhy, (773) 508-1050 Fees are on a sliding scale basis. Crime victims or crime witnesses who are age 60 and over Care for Real are assisted through the legal system with advocacy ser- Legal Aid of America 5459 N. Broadway, (773) 769-6182 vices, support services, and form assistance. (773) 221-0541, (312) 642-1553 Pantry is available to Edgewater residents. customereservice@legalaidofamerica Rogers Park Community Council Chicago Uptown Ministry Food Pantry Victim Advocacy Support Program Legal Assistance Foundation 4720 N Sheridan Road, (773) 271-3760 1530 W. Morse, (773) 338-7733 343 S. Dearborn – Ste 700, (312) 427-5200 Open from 8:45 -10 am Monday and Wednesday. Pantry Crime victims or crime witnesses who are under age 60 are Assistance for low-income individuals and families. closes after 40 families have been helped. assisted through the criminal justice advocacy services, information and referral Loyola Community Law Center Howard Area Community Center 1 East Pearson, (312) 915-7830 7648 N. Paulina, (773) 262-6622 Friends of Battered Women and Their Children Community law clinic offers assistance in small business Pantry is open from 9 -11:30 am and 1 - 2:30 pm Monday (773) 274-5232 (Office), (800) 603-4357 (Hotline) law, family law and tax law. Clients are served from 9 am through Thursday; and 10 am to 2:30 pm on Fridays. To be 24-hour crisis hotline, individual and group counseling ser- to 5 pm by supervised law school students. Clients are served, clients must bring in income and address informa- vices for survivors of domestic violence. encouraged to call for an appointment. tion (lease or utility bill) and live in the service area (between Western and the Lake; and between 6800 north RECREATION SENIOR DINING PROGRAMS and the City border). Chicago Park District: (312) 742-PLAY Golden Diners – Sponsored by the Department on Aging, North Region Coordinator: (312) 742-7879 City of Chicago St. Ignatius Food Pantry Lakefront Region Coordinator: (312) 742-7857 Hot, nutritious lunches are served to older adults (over 60 6559 N. Glenwood, (773) 764-5936, x12 Leone Park: (312) 742-7864 years of age) at 74 community sites each weekday through- Pantry is open Wednesdays from 2 - 4 pm; and Fridays from Loyola Park: (312) 742-7857 out Chicago. In addition to enjoying a meal with friends and 10 am to Noon. To be served, clients must live in service Pottawatomie Park: (312) 742-7878 neighbors, seniors can participate in the many activities area (between Devon and Pratt and Western and the lake). Schreiber Park : (312) 742-7846 scheduled at the sites. Touhy Park: (312) 742-7870 Some sites provide meals designed for specific ethnic GROCERY DELIVERY Warren Park: (312) 742-7888 groups. Two locations serve breakfast as well as lunch. The Dominick’s Finer Foods Golden Diners program is available at the following loca- 1763 W. Howard St., (773) 761-7022 Bernard Horwich JCC tions: Grocery delivery between 10 am- 5 pm Monday through 3003 W. Touhy Ave., (773) 761-9100 Fisher Apartments, 5821 N. Broadway Saturday. Delivery charge is based upon order size. The Adult Department offers classes Monday through Northeast Levy Senior Center, 2019 W. Lawrence Friday, including mah jongg, Yiddish, current event discus- Sheridan/Argyle Apartments, 4945 N. Sheridan LIBRARY sions, bridge, music, folk dancing and more. Day and out- Devon/Sheridan Apartments, 6400 N. Sheridan Rogers Park Branch of the Chicago Public Library of-town trips are planned each month. Join the JCC or pay Samaritan Family Services, 1333 W. Devon 6905 N. Clark, (312) 744-7995 a non-member fee. For more information on the program, for serving times continued on page 20 20 ROGERS PARK 2000 Directory of Resources for Seniors Seniors dress rehearsal performance, a special event for Jewish singles and couples in their 60's and over. A large continued from page 19 seniors is offered once a year in November or December, range of activities like fishing, boating, mah jongg, bingo, call to reserve tickets in the beginning of September. choir and evening presentations, such as Tommy Bartlett's Water, Ski and Sky Show, and trips to golf courses, the dog SOCIAL CENTERS AND CLUBS Old Town School of Folk Music track and Madison Wisconsin. Vacations can be 5 to 8 days Center for Older Adults 4536 N. Lincoln; (773) 728-6000 long. Six summer vacation options. (773) 761-9100 Fourth Presbyterian Church Regularly scheduled concerts. Enjoy jazz, klezmer, celtic, 126 E. Chestnut, (312) 787-4570 international and more. Oakton Community College. An interfaith social center offering day trips, luncheons, Offers First Class Adventures -- travel/study programs fea- speakers and seminars, activities, yoga, T'ai Chi and a walk- Orchestra Hall - 220 S. Michigan Ave; (312) 294-3333 turing college faculty escorts and in-country specialists, ing club. Ravinia -- 400 Iris Lane, Highland Park; (847) 266-5100 national and local guides, flexible itineraries and comfortable accommodations. Destinations include Morocco, Chicago Department on Aging HIGH SCHOOL EVENTS Egypt, Costa Rica, Bermuda, Australia, Belize, Turkey, Renaissance Court - Chicago Cultural Center The local high school drama departments open their perfor- Greece, Nova Scotia, Indonesia, Ireland, Alaska, Kenya, 78 E. Washington St. mances to the public. Call for show times. China, the Galapagos Islands, the Santa Fe Opera, the (312) 744-4550; (312) 744-6777 (TDD) Stratford Shakespeare Festival and an Israel Music Tour. This center offers approximately 60 events per month, Sullivan High School - 6631 N Bosworth; (773) 534-2000 (847) 635-1812 including classes, recreational activities, tournaments and St. Scholastica High School - 7416 N Ridge; (773) 764- others. Many are free of cost. 5715 American Jewish Congress 15 E. 84th St., New York Howard Area Community Center SPORTS Specializes in trips to Israel. They also offer visits to over 7648 N. Paulina, (773) 262-6622 Cubs - Wrigley Field, 1060 W. Addison; (773) 404-2827 30 countries. They have trips four times a year, specifical- Seniors Club for various outing and social gatherings. White Sox - Comisky Park, 333 W. 35th; (312) 674-1000 ly for people over age 55. A singles trip to Israel is in See page 23 for separate story. October of each year. (800) 221-4694 Robert A. Black Golf Course (Warren Park) 2045 W. Pratt Northeast Levy Senior Center Ave; (312) 245-0909 (automated line for information and Close up Foundation 2019 W. Lawrence Ave., (312) 744-0784 reservations) or (708) 291-9666. Persons 65 and older -- Dept. POA, 44 Canal Center Plaza, Alexandria, VA 22314 This center invites seniors to spend the day playing cards, half-price admission to golf courses (admission varies Has a travel program designed for people 50 and older in reading and socializing. Exercise programs and outings are depending on course). Proof of age is required. cooperation with AARP. They sponsor unique week-long also offered. educational trips to Washington, D.C. including seminars Fishing, Hunting and Camping with key Washington personalities and a day on Capitol Leaning Tower YMCA Senior Adult Center Golden Age Pass to National Parks Hill. They offer 15 to 20 trips during the spring and fall. 6300 W. Touhy, Niles, (847) 647-8222 Army Corps of Engineers (703) 706-3300. Many activities offered at this center including swimming, 111 N. Canal St., St 600 , (312) 353-6400 bowling, shuffleboard, art classes, special events and trips. Persons 62 and over are granted free membership to all Seniors Abroad The center is open Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday and National Parks and recreation areas, along with a 50% 12533 Pacato Circle North, San Diego, CA 92128 Friday from 10 am-3 pm. reduction on camping, parking and other federal user fees. An international home-stay program exclusively for travel- Inquire at entrance of park and present proof of age. Pass ers over 50, offering an opportunity to stay in homes in Levy Center will admit everyone in vehicle. other countries for three weeks and learn first-hand how 300 Dodge Ave., Evanston, (847) 448-8250 other people live. (619) 485-1696 Weekly and monthly activities, including exercise, games Illinois Department of Natural Resources and trips in and outside of Chicago. 160 N. LaSalle, (312) 814-2070 DISCOUNTS Persons 65 and over pay 1/2 price for State fishing, hunting Some large national department store chains offer special Senior Centers of Metropolitan Chicago and camping licenses. Hunting and fishing licenses can be services and enticements to shoppers over 50 years of age. Jane Addams Hull House Association purchased at sporting goods stores. Local retailers of all sizes are also joining this trend. 10 S. Riverside Plaza, (312) 906-8600 Wednesday is traditionally a senior discount day in many A variety of art classes are offered, including ceramics, Cook County Forest Preserve, (800) 870-3666 stores. bingo, a bridge club and much more. Classes are free with Information about 10 golf courses. Ask about discounts a $5 yearly membership. available using the golf I.D. card. Sears Roebuck and Company’s "Mature Outlook Club" offers sizeable retail price cuts and valuable discounts. Call MUSEUMS TRAVEL (800) 336-6330 for more information or to join. Listed below are some museums that offer discounts for Airlines. Many discount by 10% all fares for anyone 62 or people 65 and older. over. These specials are usually unadvertised. A 10% dis- Ark Thrift Shop, (773) 248-1117 count is also offered to one travel companion of any age. Four thrift shops in Chicago offering furniture, pictures, Adler Planetarium Always ask. clothing, collectibles, and other items. 1300 S. Lake Shore Drive; (312) 322-0304, AirTran (800) 247-8726 Art Institute America West (800) 235-9292 OPTICAL SERVICES Michigan & Adams; (312) 443-3600, American (800) 433-7300 Pearle Vision – 2357 W. Howard, (773) 262-2100 Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum American Trans Air (800) 435-9282 20% discount for seniors 2430 N. Cannon Drive; (773) 755-5111, Continental (800) 525-0280 Chicago Historical Society Delta (800) 221-1212 Lenscrafters 1601 N. Clark St; (312) 642-4600, Kiwi (800) 538-5494 Lincolnwood Town Center - 3333 Touhy, (847) 675-8637 Field Museum Northwest (800) 225-2525 10% discount on all products for people ages 65 and over. Roosevelt & Lake Shore Drive; (312) 922-9410, TWA (800) 221-2000 Museum of Contemporary Art United (800) 241-6522 EDUCATION 220 E. Chicago; (312) 280-2660, USAir (800) 428-4322 Loyola University Chicago -- Lake Shore Campus Museum of Science and Industry Vanguard (800) 826-4827 6525 N. Sheridan Road, (773) 274-3000 5700 S. Lake Shore; (773) 684-1414, Rogers Park/West Ridge Historical Society Amtrak. Available daily, age 62 and older, 15% discount off Northeastern Illinois 6424 N. Western; (773) 764-4078 lowest available coach fare, some restrictions apply. (312) 5500 N. St. Louis Avenue, (773) 583-4050 Shedd Aquarium 655-2101; (800) 872-7245. 1200 S. Lake Shore; (312) 939-2426, Greyhound. Age 55 and older - 15% discount off full fare. Northwestern University (two campuses) Spertus Museum of Judaica (800) 231-2222. Institute for Learning in Retirement 618 S. Michigan Ave; (312) 322-1747. 2115 N. Campus Dr., Evanston; (847) 491-7724 MOTELS AND HOTELS 339 E. Chicago Ave., Chicago; (312) 503-7881 THEATERS Many of the large hotel chains give senior discounts. The Offers seniors interested in anything from Short Fiction to Many theatres have senior discounts,call for information. minimum age is often lower than the minimum age for the Physics an opportunity to participate in two 15-week study Auditorium Theatre; (312) 922-2110 airlines. There are three types of discounts - discounts given groups during the year. The annual fee of $310 includes the Goodman Theater when you show proof of age, discounts for joining the hotel three study groups, which meet once a week for two hours (312) 443-4947 - Group sales (312) 443-3800 senior club and discounts for members of senior organiza- and other special educational events. Lifeline Theatre; (773) 761-4477 tions. Many of the senior clubs also discount the hotels' Loyola University - Kathleen Mullady Theatre restaurants. Senior discounts usually cannot be combined Oakton Community College Box Office (773) 508-3847. with other types of deductions. Older Adults Program Pegasus Theatre; (773) 878-9761 7701 N. Lincoln Ave., Skokie, (847) 635-1414 Raven Theatre; (773) 338-2177 CAR For people 60 and older. Shubert Theatre; (312) 977-1700 Car Rentals Most movie theaters have senior discounts. They may ask All of the major car rental agencies offer discounts or spe- Harry S. Truman College for proof of age. cial promotional rates to members of various over-50 orga- 1145 W. Wilson Ave., Chicago, (773) 907-4440 Village North Theatre, 6746 N. Sheridan; (773) 764-9100 nizations. Always ask. Non-credit courses, including computer, business management, financial planning, and office skills. CONCERTS TRIPS Chicago Cultural Center Jewish Community Center. The University of Chicago - Center for Continuing Studies 78 E. Washington; (312) 744-6630 Organize travel to many locations throughout the world all 5835 S. Kimbark Ave., Chicago; (312) 702-6033 year round. Trips include a Mayan Cruise, a Great Capitals Chicago Downtown Center - 450 N. Cityfront Plaza Dr. Chicago Park District , (312) 742-PLAY of Europe Cruise, weekends in Las Vegas, trips to Israel, There are two programs available - The Open Program and Concerts are preformed throughout the parks during the Rome, National Parks, New York, Florida, Arizona and summer. Schedules may be obtained from your local field- much more. Call (773) 761-9100 for more information. The Basic Program. The Open Program offers non-credit, house or by calling the central office. JCC Chicago Yiddish Institute invites you to spend a 4- university-level learning opportunities for adults. The adult day weekend at the Perlstein Vacation Center in the student selects courses to create a program of study that best Grant Park- Petrillo Music Shell Wisconsin Dells learning and speaking Yiddish. Enjoy serves his or her unique interests and learning needs. The 235 S. Columbus Drive, (312) 742-4763 musical entertainment, guest lecturers and Yiddish stories. Basic Program is a non-credit sequence of study which Free outdoor concerts and festivals all summer long that Takes place after Jewish High Holidays. builds a foundation in liberal learning and introduces stu- appeal to any musical taste. Vacation at the beautiful JCC Perlstein Vacation Center dents to the great works of Western thought. Lyric Opera of Chicago - 20 N. Wacker Dr; (312) 332-2244 full service resort in the Wisconsin Dells. Designed for ROGERS PARK 2000 21 Directory of Resources for Seniors to prescribe and fit them; prescription drugs; and routine HEALTH ASSOCIATIONS AND ORGANIZATION continued from page 20 physical check-ups and related tests. Must be eligible for Many health associations and organizations provide free Social Security. Certain low-income individuals who are information about specific health issues, preventive and receiving Medicare may enroll in the Qualified Medicare treatment services and education, support groups, referrals OTHER CONTINUING EDUCATION PROGRAMS Beneficiary (QMB) program, which is offered through the to specialty physicians and other services. Call the specific RPCC Senior Technology Resource Center Illinois Department of Public Aid and pays for medical organization for details. 1530 W. Morse Ave., (773) 338-7722, x11 insurance premiums, deductibles, and coinsurance amounts. Free instruction is offered in Microsoft Word and internet Alzheimer's Disease and Related Disorders Association use, including email, research, etc. Maximum classroom Medicare Assignment: When a doctor or supplier accepts (847) 933-2413; (800) 272-3900 (helpline) size is three. Computers are also available for open use assignment, he or she agrees to bill Medicare for all covered 4709 Golf Rd - Ste1015, Skokie (including internet) Monday through Friday, 9am to 5pm. services, and to collect from Medicare patients only the dif- New job coaching program provides one-on-one assistance ference between the Medicare approved amount and the American Diabetes Association creating resumes, researching employment opportunities Medicare payment. This amount is normally the Medicare 6 N. Michigan Ave., (312) 346-1805 and applying for jobs. deductible and coinsurance payment. Doctors not taking assignment may not charge more than 15% above Medicare Arthritis Foundation--Illinois Chapter Mayer Kaplan JCC approved amount. This is called the limiting charge. 303 E. Wacker Dr - Ste 1928, (312) 616-3470 5050 W. Church St., Skokie, (847) 675-2200 As a general matter, the same medical procedure will SeniorNet Computer Learning Center gives people 55+ the cost you less from a doctor who accepts assignment. Ask National Parkinson Foundation opportunity to learn various computer skills including word your doctor if he or she will accept Medicare assignment. (800) 327-4545 processing, spreadsheets and going "online." Medicaid. A medical assistance program which provides a Parkinson Disease Foundation Lifelong Learning at Evanston Township High School range of outpatient and inpatient services, including nursing 833 W. Washington Blvd., (312) 733-1893 (Adult Education) home, home health and some residential facility services. 1600 Dodge Ave., Evanston, (847) 492-3877 Individuals who are receiving financial support through Alcoholics Anonymous Offers courses in the arts, business, real estate, computers Public Aid's income assistance programs (except Food 205 W. Wacker Dr., (800) 371-1475 and recreation/fitness. Stamps) are eligible for Medicaid. Other low-income individuals may also be eligible. People who are not eligible for American Lung Association Discovery Center - Lifelong Learning Centers Medicaid but who have excessive medical expenses may be 1440 W. Washington Blvd., (312) 243-2000 2940 N. Lincoln Ave, (773) 348-8120 required to participate in a "spend-down" program in which Courses include film, martial arts, personal growth, lan- they accumulate medical bills or receipts up to a predeter- Easter Seal Society guage, theater, computers and more. 20% discount for peo- mined amount (depending on their income and assets) 14 E. Jackson, (312) 939-5115 ple 65 and over. before Medicaid benefits begin. Scholl College of Podiatric Medicine EDUCATION AND TRAVEL Illinois Department of Public Aid 1001 N. Dearborn, (312) 280-2934 or (312) 280-7886 Elderhostel (877) 426-8056 Qualified Medicare Beneficiary (QMB) Program 75 Federal St., Boston, MA 02110 (800) 252-8635, (800) 526-5812 (TDD) Schwab Rehabilitation Center (617) 426-7788 - National Headquarters Jesse B. Harding Building 1401 S. California Ave, (773) 522-2010 (217) 786-2415 - Illinois State office 100 S. Grand Ave., E, Springfield, IL 62762-0001 (217) 333-7369 – University of Illinois Payment of Medicare premiums, medical and hospital American Heart Association of Metropolitan Chicago Educational and travel programs for seniors 60 and older. deductibles and 20% of charges not covered by Medicare. 208 S. LaSalle St., Suite 900, (312) 346-4675 Take classes and travel at the same time. Many of the pro- Must meet income and asset limits. grams are theme oriented and there are many Jewish content National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute elderhostels across the country and in Israel. Fee averages Specified Low-Income Medicare Beneficiary Information Center $300 per week in the U.S. and Canada, which generally (SLMB) Program P.O. Box 30105, Bethesda, MD 20824-0105 includes room, linens, meals, entertainment and social (800) 252-8635, (800) 526-5812 (TDD) (301) 251-1222 activities. Payment of monthly Medicare premiums. Must meet income and asset limits. Income limits are slightly higher American Medical Association VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES than those of the QMB program. 515 N. State St., (312) 464-5000 Council For Jewish Elderly 3003 W. Touhy Ave., (773) 508-1000 Council for Jewish Elderly National Kidney Foundation of Illinois Volunteers provide services to clients either on a regular or Senior Health Insurance Program (SHIP) 215 W. Illinois St., Suite 1C, (312) 663-3103 periodic basis. These services include delivering meals to 3003 W. Touhy Ave, (773) 508-1000 the homebound, friendly visiting, working at the Shabbat Free counseling sponsored by the Illinois Department of National Cancer Institute luncheons and providing clerical assistance in CJE offices. Insurance for senior citizens with questions about health 800-422-6237 insurance. SHIP counselors answer questions about Jewish Federation of Metropolitan Chicago Medicare, Medicare supplement insurance, and long-term Y-Me National Breast Cancer Organization 1 S. Franklin St., (312) 346-6700 care insurance; organize and assist in filing Medicare and 212 W. Van Buren St, (800) 221-2141 Medicare supplement claims; and analyze Medicare supple- Jane Addams Hull House Association Retired and Senior ment and long-term care insurance policies. American Cancer Society Volunteer Program (RSVP) 77 E. Monroe St., (312) 641-6150 10 S. Riverside Pl., Chicago, (312) 906-8600 ext. 214 Health Maintenance Organizations (HMO) Volunteers age 55 and older are needed to work in non-prof- A HMO is a prepaid health care plan. In exchange for one Chicago Hearing Society it, community service organizations. monthly fee, all outpatient and inpatient care is provided. 2001 N. Clybourn, (773) 248-9121, (773) 248-9174 (TTY) Some HMO’s in the Chicago area have contracts with The United Way/Crusade of Mercy Volunteer Center Medicare. For an additional monthly fee, they provide Chicago Lighthouse for People Who Are Blind and 560 W. Lake St., (312) 906-2425 health care in their contracted facilities for Medicare-cov- Visually Impaired Provides opportunities in 1,000 organizations in metropoli- ered patients. They handle all of the billing. Names of 1850 W. Roosevelt Rd., (312) 666-1331 tan Chicago. HMO’s can be obtained at any CJE Resource Center. Call (773) 508-1000 for more information. Blind Service Association Uptown Hull House Grandma Please Program 22 W. Monroe St., (312) 236-0808 501 W. Surf, (773) 755-2255 Generic Drug Substitute Provides an in-home volunteer opportunity providing a tele- Illinois law allows pharmacists to substitute less expensive American Foundation for the Blind phone resource for "latchkey" kids. generic drugs for name brands unless the doctor indicates 401 N. Michigan Ave., Suite 350, otherwise. Discuss this with your doctor and pharmacist. (312) 396-4420 Chicago Department on Aging Foster Grandparents You can save a good deal of money by using generic drugs. 510 N. Peshtigo Court, (312) 744-3223 Illinois Society for the Prevention of Blindness Provides volunteer opportunities for people 60 and older. Pharmaceutical Assistance Program 407 S. Dearborn St., Suite 1000 One-on-one service to children with special needs. The Pharmaceutical Assistance Program is an optional ben- (312) 922-8710 efit of the Circuit Breaker program that helps you pay for The Ark, 6450 N. California Ave, (773) 973-1000 approved prescription medications used for the treatment of HOSPITALS / PHARMACIES / HEALTH CLINICS (ask for Director of Volunteers) heart and blood pressure problems, diabetes, and arthritis. ACCESS Evanston/Rogers Park Family Health Center Volunteers needed for home visiting, shopping, driving and To qualify for the program you must be an Illinois resident, 1555 W. Howard St., (773) 764-3774 resale shop. file Form IL-1363 Circuit Breaker and Pharmaceutical Medical care provided to under-insured and uninsured. See Assistance Claim, meet income requirements, and be 65 page 13 for separate story. Rogers Park Community Council years of age or older, or disabled. Pharmaceutical cards cost 1530 W. Morse, (773) 338-7722 $25. Low-income individuals may apply for a reduced fee. The Ark Volunteers needed to work with teen programs as well as Call (800) 624-2459 for an application or for more informa- 6450 N California Ave., (773) 973-1000 assist with office duties and special projects. tion. The Ark offers a medical clinic, vision screening and a pharmacy for qualifying individuals. HEALTH INSURANCE Medicare (800) 642-6930 EMERGENCY RESPONSE SYSTEMS & TELEPHONE REASSURANCE/ FRIENDLY VISITING SERVICES Chicago Department of Health Part A: Hospital insurance may pay for inpatient hospital LIFELINE Systems Uptown Clinic, (312) 744-1938 care, skilled nursing facility care, home health care and hos- LIFELINE and MEDCALL are electronic, personal emer- pice care. No premium is required if the party worked 40 gency response systems. For a monthly fee, the sponsor Dominick’s Finer Foods quarters and paid into the Social Security system. Insurance will install an electronic system, train the client on how it is 1763 W. Howard St. , (773) 761-7022 may be available to those not eligible for Social Security if used and monitor the system. If the client is in need of a premium is paid. Deductible applies. emergency assistance, they push a button and the trained Morseview Pharmacy operator determines the nature of the emergency and con- 1448 W. Morse, (773) 465-1272 Part B: Medical insurance may pay for doctor's services (up tacts appropriate responders, such as family members, Mon-Fri 9 am-9 pm; Saturday 9 am-5 pm to 80% of allowable charges); outpatient hospital services; friends, neighbors or emergency personnel. Call (800) 451- A full service pharmacy with delivery at no charge. home health visits; diagnostic x-ray, laboratory and other 0525 for LIFELINE systems throughout the United States. tests; and other medical services and supplies. Medical Osco Drug insurance does not pay for custodial care; dentures and rou- 1425 W. Morse Ave., (773) 761-0594 tine dental care; eyeglasses; hearing aids and examinations continued on page 22 22 ROGERS PARK 2000 Directory of Resources for Seniors at a place of residence. One site is CJE at 3003 W. Touhy. tained from September 15th to June 1st, report to the num- continued from page 21 Call (773) 508-1000 for the next date and time. ber above. 10:30 pm - 7:30 am 63 degrees CHICAGO CITY STICKERS 7:30 am - 8:30 am 65 degrees St. Francis Hospital City Clerk's Office, (312) 744-6861 8:30 am - 10:30 pm 68 degrees 355 Ridge Ave., Evanston, (847) 316-4000 121 N. LaSalle St., Room 101 Stickers available at half price for individuals 65 and over. Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program. St. Francis Community Health Center - Rogers Park LIHEAP is an energy assistance program designed to help 7464 N. Clark St., (847) 316-2500 DRIVER IMPROVEMENT COURSES low-income people pay their home energy bills or have dis- "55 Alive/Mature Driving" connected utility services reconnected. Program runs from Walgreens American Association of Retired Persons (AARP) October 1 to April 30, depending on availability of funds. 7410 N. Clark St., (773) 743-0615 8750 W. Bryn Mawr Ave., Suite 600, (773) 714-9800 Community and Economic Development Association of An eight-hour class (usually given in two, four-hour ses- Cook County (CEDA) at (312) 795-8998 or the hotline FINANCIAL BENEFITS AND SERVICES sions) on defensive driving, including physical changes that (800) 252-8643. Tax Benefits take place as people age, how to avoid accidents and how to Illinois Department of Revenue handle difficult driving situations. All seniors (55 and over) Salvation Army Gas Bill Assistance Circuit Breaker, (800) 624-2459 will receive a discount on their auto insurance upon com- 5040 N. Pulaski Rd., (773) 725-1100 P.O. Box 19003, Springfield, IL 62794-9003 pletion of the course. For information about class sites, con- Customers of Northern Illinois Gas Company who are in Annual cash rebate on property taxes for residents of Illinois tact AARP at (773) 714-9800. need, may receive up to $200 once per year in the payment who are 65 years of age and older or disabled. Renters as of natural gas bills. Customers of Peoples Gas company well as homeowners are eligible if they meet the income "Rules of the Road" who are in need may receive up to $300 per year in the pay- requirements. Deadline is December 31st of the year fol- Illinois Secretary of State, (800) 252-2904 ment of past due gas bills through the Add-A-Dollar pro- lowing the filing year. Applications are available at CJE Howlett Building, Room 450, Springfield, IL 62756 gram. Programs are dependent on the availability of funds. Resource Centers, Rogers Park Community Council or by A free two-hour class to prepare you for the written driver Individuals may not be receiving assistance through the contacting the Illinois Department of Revenue. examination. The class is given at sites throughout Illinois. Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP). Call the Secretary of State at (773) 714-9800 for class Call for screening and referral to nearest site where services Internal Revenue Service, Federal Income Tax schedule. are available. 230 S. Dearborn St., (800) 829-1040. Older adults maybe eligible for some deductions. Call for information. LOCAL TRANSPORTATION Shut-offs Due to Non-Payment of Utility Bills PROVIDED BY ORGANIZATIONS Illinois Commerce Commission, SOCIAL SECURITY OFFICES Council for Jewish Elderly Consumer Affairs Division; (800) 524-0795 2127 W. Lawrence, Chicago 3003 W. Touhy Ave., (773) 508-1000 2116 Green Bay Rd, Evanston, (800) 772-1213 The Shalom buses provide transportation for people 60 and Illinois law prohibits utility heating shut-offs when the tem- www.ssa.gov over to a variety of pre-arranged destinations, such as the perature is below 32 degrees. If you feel you've been shut Social Security Retirement Benefits: Monthly pay- doctor's office, shopping or the JCC. off illegally, first contact the utility company to verify that ments are made to people ages 62 and over who have earned shut-off is heat-related and then contact the Illinois (by working) the required amount of Social Security credits. Leukemia Society of America--Illinois Chapter Commerce Commission at (312) 793-2877 for assistance. Certain family members, including divorced spouses, may 100 W. Monroe, Suite 100 , (312) 726-0003, also be eligible for benefits on the record of covered indi- Reimbursement for up to $750 per year for the cost of med- CHICAGO AND ROGERS PARK viduals. The benefit amount is based on lifetime average ication (no more than $500 per year), transfusions and trans- Quick Reference Section earnings covered by Social Security and the age at which portation (including 5 cents per mile, parking, and tolls) for benefits begin. Individuals may continue to work and still people diagnosed with leukemia or some other form of lym- Elected Representatives: get benefits as long as their earnings are below certain lim- phoma. Many hospitals, social service organizations, adult 40thWard -- Alderman Patrick O'Connor its. Call the Social Security Administration or walk in or day care centers, recreational facilities, senior centers and City Hall Office; (312) 744-6858 write to the nearest local office. To obtain a personalized other groups offer transportation for their clients/members. Ward Office; (773) 769-1140 benefit estimate, individuals may call the above number or Always ask if transportation is provided. walk in or write to the nearest local office and ask for a 49th Ward -- Alderman Joseph Moore "Request for Earnings and Benefit Estimate Statement." MUNICIPAL TRANSPORTATION PROGRAMS City Hall Office; (312) 744-3067 Social Security will supply a form to be completed and Regional Transportation Authority Reduced Fare Program Ward Office; (773) 338-5796 returned and will then mail back the complete earnings his- (312) 836-7000; (708) 836-7000; (312) 836-4949 (TDD) tory with an estimate of benefits. Allows senior citizens 65 and over and people with disabil- 50th Ward -- Alderman Bernard Stone Social Security Disability: Monthly payments are made ities of any age to ride Pace, Metra and CTA services at City Hall Office; (312) 744-6855 to people who are unable to work because of a disability and approximately half the price. Registration for the Reduced Ward Office; (773) 764-5050 who have, or whose family member has, earned the required Fare Program is available at all CJE Resource Centers. number of Social Security credits. The benefit amount is Must bring one 1_ x 1_" color photo of yourself and one of City of Chicago; 311 based on lifetime average earnings covered by Social the following; either a drivers license, a state I.D., a pass- Chicago Police Emergency; 911 Security and benefits continue as long as the individual is port, a resident alien card or a Social Security 24th District Community Policing Office; (312) 744-6321 disabled. Disability benefits will not begin until the sixth Administration printout verifying your disability. Abandoned Autos; (312) 746-4957 full month of a disability. Application will be sent to Springfield and Reduced Fare Animal Care & Control; (312) 747-1382 Social Security Survivors Insurance: Monthly pay- Card will be sent to you by mail in approximately four Building Inspections; (312) 744-2951 ments are made to the eligible survivors of individuals who weeks. Call the RTA for other locations and for list of buses earned the required number of Social Security credits. The that serve people with disabilities. Rogers Park Education benefit amount is based on a percentage of lifetime earnings Board of Education, Region 1; (773) 534-1100 covered by Social Security of the person who died. Chicago Transit Authority Taxi Access Program (TAP) Central Board of Education; (773) 535-1500 Supplemental Security Income (SSI): Monthly pay- (312) 917-4357; (312) 521-1153 (TDD) Armstrong School; (773) 534-2150 ments are made to people who are age 65 and over, blind or Gives people with disabilities who are certified Special Eugene Field School; (773) 534-2030 disabled and who have little or no income or assets. People Services riders the opportunity to travel in participating Gale Academy; (773) 534-2100 who have applied for SSI and whose applications are pend- taxis at reduced rates anywhere in the city of Chicago, 24 Jordan Elementary; (773) 534-2220 ing may apply to the Illinois Department of Public Aid for hours a day, 7 days a week. Kilmer Elementary; (773) 534-2115 interim assistance. Sullivan High School; (773) 534-2000 Chicago Transit Authority Special Services MONEY MANAGEMENT (312) 917-4357 CTA Information; (312) 664-7200 Council For Jewish Elderly Door-to-door transportation for people with disabilities who CTA Embankment Clean-up;(888) 968-7282 3003 W. Touhy, (773) 508-1000 have been certified as unable to use the CTA's mainline bus Dead Animal Recovery; (312) 744-6465 Volunteers provide a range of financial services for the and rail service. Service is available 24 hours a day, 7 days Graffiti Removal; (312) 744-1234 elderly and/or their caregivers. Services include education- a week anywhere within the city of Chicago and to suburbs Green Streets; (312) 744-7080 al workshops to address financial planning needs, assistance with CTA transportation services. Registration for the pro- Lerner Newspaper; (847) 329-2011 with organizing and/or paying bills, health insurance claims gram is available at all CJE Resource Centers. You must Metra - General Information; (312) 322-6900 processing and management of Social Security benefits. bring two 1_ x 1_" color photos of yourself and one of the Union Pacific; (312) 225-5536 Services are available on an at-home basis to individuals 60 following; either a driver’s license, a state I.D., a passport or Noise Abatement Hotline; (312) 666-2377 and over. Call the above number to be matched with a a resident alien card. Doctor must complete part of the Rodent Control; (312) 744-6465 senior consultant. application. The application will be sent to Springfield and Sewers - City Hall; (312) 744-2952 Reduced Fare Card will be sent to you by mail in approxi- Street Lights; (312) 746-4400 DRIVERS LICENSES AND IDENTIFICATION mately four weeks. LICENSE PLATES AND TITLES STREETS & SANITATION Illinois Secretary of State, (312) 793-1010 TAXICABS 40th Ward (Joseph Howard, Supt.) (312) 744-8387 Downtown Location-- 100 W. Randolph St. Blue Ribbon (773) 878-5400 49th Ward (Bill Norkett, Supt.) (312) 744-0940 North Location -- 5401 N. Elston Ave. Checker Taxi (312) 243-2537 50th Ward (Don Kaufman, Supt.) (312) 744-3099 License plates are available at a 50% discount to drivers 65 Flash Cab (773) 561-1444 and over or with disabilities who qualify for Circuit Breaker Wolley Cab (877) 888-8294 TRAFFIC tax relief. Yellow Cab (312) 829-4222 Bureau of Streets; (312) 747-5236 Asphalt Maintenance; (312) 747-7504 DRIVERS LICENSE RENEWAL TAXICABS Concrete Maintenance; (312) 747-6550 Illinois Secretary of State, (312) 793-1010 Weatherization Assistance Traffic Planning & Design; (312) 744-4686 North location -- 5401 N. Elston Ave. (312) 795-8844 Traffic Signs & Markings; (312) 744-8092 Downtown location --100 W. Randolph St. City of Chicago Department of Housing Program is North Suburban location - Golf Rd., Niles designed to assist low-income persons and families "weath- TREES erize" their homes. This is available to both homeowners Removal of dead parkway trees; (312) 744-7681 STATE PHOTO IDENTIFICATION CARDS and renters. Tree Trimming (Forestry Dept); (312) 744-4380 I.D. cards are available for those who do not drive. There is Emergency; (312) 744-6321 no fee for those 65 or over. For further information, contact Minimum Apartment Temperatures Woodchips (312) 747-3307 the Secretary of State's senior hotline at (800) 252-2904. (312) 744-5000; (312) 744-8599 (TDD) The Secretary of State's office conducts photo I.D. sessions If the minimum temperatures listed below are not main- Zoning(312) 744-9039 for those 65 and over at various locations and, if necessary, ROGERS PARK 2000 23 Senior Apartments from Howard Area Seniors Club Cornerstone Residential

n existence for nearly 20 years, the Howard Area Paulina Ave.), was considered a tremendous success. Group Seniors Club is dedicated to improving life for not only The club also sponsors trips to museums, attractions I seniors, but residents of all ages. Since 1994, Sister and historic places of interest. Every month, members 6928 North Wayne Avenue Christina Gelting of Howard Area Community Center meet for a nutritious lunch, presentation and discussion. ¥ Studios from $233; one-bedrooms from $275 (HACC) has led the club in advocacy initiatives, educa- Guest speakers on safety, health and other topics have ¥ Heat and gas included tional and social activities. The Club actively promotes included representatives of Council for Jewish Elderly, ¥ On-site laundry and engineer citizenship by participating in voter-registration efforts and ACCESS Community Health Network and other organi- ¥ Parking available community political events, as well as speaking out in zations. ¥ Pets welcome favor/opposition of legislative policy affecting the senior According to official club literature, seniors have the population. "We have written to legislators in support of right to participate "in all aspects of community life" and to 1528 West Morse Avenue affordable housing, saving the Medicare system and lead "full and gracious lives." It is with these ideas in mind ¥ Studios from $465; one-bedrooms from $565 other crucial issues," says Gelting. "In fact, during our last that the Howard Area Seniors Club continues to serve its ¥ Free rent for one month aldermanic election, we collaborated with HACC on an members and the community. For information about the ¥ Heat and gas included open forum, where all five candidates spoke." The event, club, contact Sr. Gelting at 773.262.6622. ¥ On-site laundry and engineer held at Howard Area Alternative High School (7647 N. ¥ Parking available

Thirty-one Moderate Income Families Win Affordable Condos By Artis Q. Wright

n the morning of October 18, dozens of aspiring $40,000 of purchase-price assistance from the city. of funds available to cover homeowners and their families filled the lobby of Lotteries occur several times throughout the year, the difference.) O Truman College (1145 W. Wilson Ave.) to partici- depending on availability of units. The one, two and For more information about CPAN and other DOH pate in a lottery drawing to purchase 31 new condomini- three-bedroom units awarded in this CPAN drawing were homeownership programs, call 311 and ask for a um units. The housing lottery was part of the city’s all located in Uptown and ranged in price from $140,000 "Chicago Affordable Housing Package" or call DOH Chicago Partnership for Affordable Neighborhoods to $155,000. directly at 312.747.9000. To register for free workshops (CPAN) program. Sponsors include Jack Markowski, To participate in a CPAN lottery, households must in first-time homebuying, condo training or landlord train- commissioner of the Department of Housing (DOH), Ald. complete homeownership counseling and condo training, ing, call RPCDC at 773.338.7732. All classes are offered Helen Schiller (46th ward) and Rogers Park Community available through RPCDC. In addition to homebuyer in English and Spanish. Development Corporation (RPCDC). training, lottery participants must have a household CPAN is a City of Chicago affordable homeownership income between 60% and 120% of the area’s median Rogers Park resident Artis Q.Wright serves as associate direc- program through which first-time homebuyers may pur- income (levels vary throughout Chicago.) Pre-approval tor of RPCDC, which offers training for first-time home and chase new condos in market-rate developments for must be obtained from a mortgage lender for a minimum condo buyers, landlords and other property owners, and sup- $165,000 or less. Depending on household income, mortgage amount of $100,000. (If a family is pre- ports responsible retail, residential and commercial develop- some families may also qualify to receive $10,000 to approved for less than $100,000, they must provide proof ment in our community. 24 ROGERS PARK 2000 Winter has Chicago descended! Park District Break out from the dreary days and enjoy great Calendar of Chicago Park District (CPD) programs at local parks: tots classes at Chippewa, Emmerson, Touhy and Warren Parks; and basketball leagues at Pottawattomie, Rogers and Warren Parks. Also at Events Warren Park are fitness and seniors classes, an indoor soccer league, ice skating and sledding (open until March, depending on weather conditions). The winter session runs from January 5 to March 21, 2004. Indian Boundary Park Cultural Center On-line registration begins December 1; in-person (2500 W. Lunt Ave.) 312.742.7887 registration begins December 6 (9am) and continues until programs are filled. The spring session runs from December 17, 6:30pm/December 18, 3:30pm and March 29 to June 6, 2004. On-line registration begins 6:30pm February 16; in-person registration February 21. Visit Chocolate House Project. Open to all ages; children must the CPD website at www.chicagoparkdistrict.com, or be accompanied by an adult. Create a large, completely call 312.742.PLAY. edible chocolate house. Fee of $18 (per house) includes all supplies and take-home box.

These young dancers perform at Indian Boundary Park February 15, 3pm (2500 W. Lunt Ave.), which offers introduction to dance, Interactive concert: "Dances from Around the World" (part ballet, creative movement and other classes. of LaSalle MusiCorps concert series). Ages 8 and up; free of charge.

February 29, 3pm Interactive concert: "Music with a Spanish Flair" (part of LaSalle MusiCorps concert series). Ages 8 and up; free New Permit Parking for Rogers of charge.

Park Residents Schreiber Park (1552 W. Schreiber) 312.742.7876

December 18, 9am to 3pm n response to requests from neighborhood residents, enforced daily by Lincoln Towing Co.), neighborhood resi- Free immunizations for all ages; bring immunization the Chicago Park District will soon convert the parking dents will now have access to parking spaces formerly records. Co-sponsored by Ald. Patrick J. O'Connor (40th I lot by the Rogers Park fieldhouse (7345 N. used by abandoned cars and commercial vehicles. ward), Chicago Department of Public Health and Blue Washtenaw) into a permitted parking lot. The change is A three-month permit will cost approximately $25. Cross/Blue Shield of Illinois. scheduled for January 1. The Rogers Park office is located at the east end of Rogers Park supervisor Jim Ziaja has worked with the Rogers School (open Monday through Friday, 3pm to 7pm park’s advisory council to create safer parking alternatives while school is in session). For information, call Warren Park at the park. The parking lot was resurfaced and relined in 312.742.7859. (6601 N. Western Ave.) 312.742.7888 October. With the creation of permit parking (to be December 17, 6:30pm/December 18, 3:30pm and 6:30pm Chocolate House Project. Open to all ages; children must be accompanied by an adult. Create a large, completely edible chocolate house. Fee of $18 (per house) includes Lakefront to Serve as all supplies and take-home box.

Inspirational Setting Loyola Park (1230 W. Greenleaf Ave.) 312.742.7857

February 13, 6:30pm to 8pm for Writer’s Workshop Daddy Daughter Dance. Valentine’s dinner and dancing. Fee of $5 includes catered refreshments, musical enter- elebrate the stories of your life—whether they’re their skills and ultimately enjoy personal and professional tainment and Polaroid photo. cruel intentions or benevolent ambitions, reality or success. "You don’t have to be a Charles Dickens, fantasy! Writers of all genres and seasons are invit- Stephen King or Joyce Carol Oates to write a story that’s February 27, 6:30pm to 8pm C Black History Month Pot Luck Dinner. Bring a traditional ed to register now for the Chicago Park District exciting," she says. "Using my system won’t make you a Writer’s Workshop starting January 5 at Loyola Park (1230 writing genius, but it certainly can free you to discover it." African, Caribbean or African-American dish to share. All W. Greenleaf Ave.). From what began in 1992 as a single Johnson adds that many of her students learn to write ages; free of charge. workshop of 30 community writers, founding instructor truly amazing stories. "They end up feeling quite pleased Venice Johnson continues to blaze trails within the literary with their story-telling abilities." community. She has led numerous students to publish Compiled by S. Patricia Welsh, a marketing assistant at the magazines and novels. For more information, call Loyola Park at 312.742.7857. Chicago Park District’s North Region Office. The ten-week Writer’s Workshop is designed to Writing classes are also held at Berger Park (6205 N. Sheridan change the nature of storytelling from "abstract" to "visu- Rd.),#312.742.7871. al". Johnson developed the system to help writers hone ROGERS PARK 2000 25 Good News Community Kitchen Celebrates 20 Years of Service By Elizabeth Burnside

he mission of Good News Community T Kitchen is "to reduce poverty and hunger in the Rogers Park and greater Chicago community by providing nutritious meals daily, while building a just society through advocacy and col- laborative relationships across racial, cultural and socio-economic lines to promote the well-being of patrons served." This is the guiding statement by which Good News has served our community for 20 years. First established as a joint project between Good News Community Church and First Congregational Church of Wilmette, Good News became an independent organization in 2000. While the organization may be best known for serving a hot, nutritious dinner every night of the year to anyone in need, Good News also provides advocacy, education, workforce training, referrals and information to address the underlying causes of hunger. Executive director Rev. Marilyn Pagan hopes to expand programs in the Rogers Park YouthNet participants lend a hand during a special November 22 coming months to include lunch service. Top: Sullivan High School student Daphnee Rene (standing, greater advocacy and sup- left) and older sister Christine take a quick break to pose with patrons. port, and childhood nutri- Bottom: Melissa Chavarria (left), Leticia Alvarado and Joel Ring are all tion. Pagan was particularly smiles after a busy day of service. proud of Good News’ involvement last summer with a Chicago Summer Lunch program, and Several individuals and organizations— hopes to expand programming to include the win- including Mayor Daley’s KidStart YouthNet 24th ter break. "Many families depend upon school District—offer their volunteer services to Good lunch programs to feed their children and those News. The day of the fundraiser, YouthNet partic- services are often lost during school breaks," she ipants served lunch to patrons. Good News explains. Community Kitchen (7649 N. Paulina) may be To celebrate Good News’ 20th anniversary, a reached at 773.262.2297. Thanksgiving Ball was held November 22 at Galleria Marchetti (825 W. Erie) for friends and A court advocate for Rogers Park Community supporters. "We were simply delighted over the Council’s Victim Advocacy Support program, Elizabeth success of the event," says Pagan, who now con- Burnside lives with her husband Gerry and two fat and siders holding a fundraiser every year. sassy cats.

Tanya Dillard, supervisor at Paschen Park, teaches numbers to pre-school students on a computer donated by the park’s advisory council (scheduled to meet Tuesday, January 20, 7pm). Park advisory councils are usually made up of local residents and business people who want to enhance and support programs, and increase participation. To join or form a park advisory council, call 312.742.PLAY. 26 ROGERS PARK 2000 ROGERS PARK 2000 27 Preliminary Plans Unveiled for Howard East District Streetscape continued from first page

3) More tree pits and replacement trees all along street, with tree varieties and planting techniques selected for tolerance to growing conditions along city streets (salt, infrequent watering, etc.). 4) Low-walled planters at key intersections (similar to those located along central and west district sidewalks). 5) Traditional, wrought-iron benches reflecting more historic look than in central and west districts. Bench placement subject to additional study to ensure that community concerns about loitering and public safety are addressed. 6) New wrought-iron waste receptacles identical to those on Sheridan Road. Because east district is in immediate need of waste receptacles, installation to begin in a few months. 7) Reduction of vehicle area of Howard-Rogers- Greenview intersection by enlarging pedestrian public way at all six corners (larger sidewalks beginning approximately 30 feet from each corner, with decorative insets and planters, allowing placement of stop signs and stop lines closer to actual intersection). Motorists to gain much better view of vehicles and pedestrians, increasing safety for all. 8) Pressed concrete "neighborhood identifier" paving blocks displaying the "tree of many hands" motif found throughout Rogers Park to be laid into key sidewalk locations. 9) Cast iron, 16-foot, double-faced clock to be located on Howard Street at northwest corner of

If plans for a streetscape are approved, the intersection of Howard and Sheridan will receive quite a "face lift"—with new sidewalks, streetlamps, trees and planters.

Howard/Rogers/Greenview intersection. Clock to be organizing special appeals to Moore and to Mayor Daley mounted in decorative, protective planter with balustrades to make the streetscape plan a reality. and low-wrought iron fencing (similar to that along Devon Avenue). One issue that surfaced throughout the meeting is Lorrie Woos is a 28-year resident of Rogers Park and a long- whether funding is in fact available to begin the project, time advocate for improvements to Howard Street. originally scheduled for spring of 2004. Moore reminded everyone of the city’s budget problems, mentioning more than once the need for funding for the future proposed Morse streetscape. However, various community representatives noted that Morse Avenue is still in a very preliminary planning stage, whereas the Howard Street East District Plan is detailed and complete. Public sentiment runs high that Howard Street improvements need to be completed, and that with significant constructions (Gale Park community center, new Morse Avenue CTA station) on the horizon, construction needs to be coordi- nated in conjunction with Vintage-style streetlamps (with "double" banner hangers) are other improvements. Some among the proposed improvements for Howard Street’s east residents and business own- district. ers indicated interest in

Howard Streetscape Key Questions and Answers

Q: Who will maintain the plants in the planters? A: Maintenance staff of the Howard Street Special Service Area (SSA).

Q: Since many of the decorative, vintage-look sidewalk lights in Gale Campus Park have already been damaged, will the new vintage lights be vandalized as well? A: The Gale sidewalk lights were purchased by the Chicago Park District and are of lesser quality than the proposed new sidewalk lights. CDOT has had good experiences with the street lights in similar settings, and they are also holding up well in the central and west districts of Howard Street.

Q: Are all proposed pedestrian crosswalks located properly to enhance safety, especially along Gale Campus Park? A: Current locations were determined after much study, onsite observation and committee input, but modifications can be made as the project progresses if pedestrian patterns change, especially when the new Gale field house is built. 28 ROGERS PARK 2000 A Brief Introduction to Our Elected State Officials By Adam Shames

o you know who your state representatives are? Avenue," he says. that men and women in the same job receive the same Just ending its 93rd session, the Illinois General At 36, Osterman is one of the youngest elected rep- pay). "Early childhood issues have always been my top D Assembly (composed of a 59-member Senate and resentatives in the state. He was pleased to play a role in priority," she says. "My intention is to focus on the issues a 118-member House of Representatives) is responsible developing a 2003 state budget that did not call for high- that surround early childhood development and to bring for enacting, amending or repealing laws that affect er taxes while increasing funding in essential areas such positive change through legislation that will give kids the as education and childcare. His legislative efforts have best start possible." many facets of our local community. Six of its members included protecting children from toxic chemicals, advo- represent Rogers Park, which is cut like a jigsaw puzzle cating for immigrant and refugee rights, increasing child- into six legislative districts. care benefits and protecting the state’s natural resources. These three senators and three representatives—all Osterman has become one of the leading gun-control Rep. Julie Hamos democrats—are passionate lawmakers committed to advocates in the House, fighting NRA-sponsored and 16th District making a difference both locally and in Springfield. Our proposed legislation that would have pre-empted home (has served since 1999) elected officials include Representatives Harry rule authority for Chicago (affecting its autonomy with 820 Davis Street, Suite 103, Osterman, Julie Hamos and Louis Lang and Senators regard to policy), as well as sponsoring a bill designed to Evanston, IL 60201 Carol Ronen, Jeffrey Schoenberg and Ira Silverstein. close the gun show loophole and keep illegal guns off our phone: 847.424.9898 streets. "I want to make sure criminals don’t use Illinois fax: 847.424.9828 Rep. Harry Osterman gun shows to purchase illegal guns," he explains. email: [email protected] 14th District Chairs Housing and Urban Development Committee (has served since 2000) Former advisor to then-state’s attorney Richard M. Daley 5533 N. Broadway, Chicago, IL Lives in Evanston; seven grandchildren 60660 Sen. Carol Ronen phone: 773.784.2002 7th Legislative District Much of the Rogers Park region north of Touhy and fax: 773-784-2060 (has served since 2000; east of Wolcott falls into the legislative districts of Rep. email: [email protected] state rep from 1993-2000) Julie Hamos (16th District) and Sen. Jeff Schoenberg Chairs Local Government Committee phone: 773.769.1717 (9th District), who share an office in Evanston. Coming to Formerly Deputy Commissioner, Streets and Sanitation fax: 773.769.6901 America as a young girl to escape the government abus- Born and raised in district; currently lives in Edgewater email: [email protected] es and anti-semitism of her native Hungary, Hamos describes herself as "an energetic legislator interested in Rep. Harry Osterman (14th District) and Sen. Carol Chairs Labor and Commerce Committee creating an effective state government for people who Ronen (7th District) serve the majority of Rogers Park, Formerly ran Mayor’s Commission on Women depend on us." Her top priorities are affordable housing their districts covering all residents east of Ridge Avenue Born on Chicago’s north side; resident of Edgewater and environment issues (described in detail on her web- and south of Touhy Avenue (plus several blocks north). In site, www.juliehamos.org). Her recent work includes pro- late November, they opened a second office at 1409 W. An avid Cubs fan, Ronen has served Rogers Park for moting a universal fare card for all three transit agencies Morse Avenue (773.274.2003), shared with Cook County more than 10 years, embarking upon her second senate and working to create a one-stop child support system. Commissioner Larry Suffredin. According to Osterman, term in November 2002. She has advocated strongly to the new office provides easier access for services to help provide better access to health care, reduce crime and area residents with issues and concerns. "We’re looking violence, and protect human rights. In 2003, she helped forward to working with local community organizations to raise Illinois minimum wage, secure more state funds for continued on page 29 reduce crime and revitalize the commercial area of Morse child care, and pass the Equal Pay Act (which assures ROGERS PARK 2000 29 Our Elected State Officials continued from page 28

Sen. Jeffrey Schoenberg state taxes. He continues to be a leader for state funding lies, laying the foundation for a stronger Illinois econo- 9th Legislative District of education. "I have fought for years for the Fund my," says Silverstein. (has served since 1990) Education First Act," he explains, "to force the state to For more information about these state representa- 820 Davis Street, Suite 102, direct 50 percent of all new tax money to schools to ease tives, visit www.senatedem.state.il.us or www.house- Evanston, IL 60201 the burden on homeowners." dem.state.il.us. You can find information about other phone: 847.492.1200 Illinois state representatives at www.housedem.state.il.us fax: 847.424.9828 and www.housegop.state.il.us. For a complete listing of email: [email protected] Sen. Ira Silverstein Rogers Park federal, state and city officials, call Chairs State Government Committee 8th Legislative District 773.338.7722 ext. 11. Lives in Evanston; two children (has served since 1999) 6199 N. Lincoln Avenue, Adam Shames is a freelance writer and an organizational A former six-term state representative, Schoenberg has Chicago development consultant who works with companies and orga- tackled challenging and technical issues since first taking phone: 773.743.5015 nizations to enhance team performance and creative potential. office 1990. He spearheaded efforts to enact reforms to fax: 773.743.4750 He also teaches "The Creativity Experience" at Truman the state’s procurement code (which regulates what orga- College, a six-week course in creative freedom and self-expres- nizations receive state contracts for good and services). email: [email protected] sion. Call Truman at 773.907.4440 for more information. As a senator, Schoenberg continues to oppose political Chairs Senate Executive Committee Shames may be reached at 773.334-3811. For more informa- deal-making and inefficient government spending. He Director of Bernard Horwich JCC tion, visit his website at www.kreativity.net. recently introduced legislation to reform the Illinois State Lifelong resident of West Rogers Park; four children Toll Highway Authority and stop "revolving door" govern- Join Rogers Park YouthNet and 24th ment hiring. An attorney born and raised in West Rogers Park, Silverstein was an upset non-party endorsed winner of a District CAPS for a Very Special New 1998 primary that led to his senate stint, which began in Year’s Eve Celebration January, 1999. A strong advocate of public education, Rep. Louis Lang Silverstein describes himself as particularly passionate 5th Annual S.A.F.E. Night 18th District about protecting the elderly, combating hate crimes, fight- (has served since 1987) ing identity theft, funding our schools and improving Monday, December 29 4528 W. Oakton St., Skokie, IL health care opportunities. "I am most proud of a long-time 60076 initiative I have sponsored that finally became a reality Loyola Park phone: 847.673.1131 this spring," he says, referring to the Senior Citizen 1230 W. Greenleaf fax: 847.982.0393 Prescription Drug Discount Act. Signed into law by the email: [email protected] Gov. Rod Blagojevich, this program for senior and dis- Safe, Alcohol-Free Family Activities Chairs Conflict of Interest and Gaming Committees abled individuals provides a discount of up to 40 percent Former Counsel for Niles Township or more on prescription drugs. Lives in Skokie; five children Food Representing Rogers Park and its neighbors, this Entertainment The most veteran member of the General Assembly team of able legislators continues to take stands for bet- Games representing part of Rogers Park is Lou Lang, first elect- ter schools, safer communities, affordable health care, Live D.J. ed in 1988. Along with Sen. Ira Silverstein, his district human and equal rights. Despite the challenges of the Workshops covers the northwest section of Rogers Park. In 2003, state budget crisis, the year ends with a sense of success Lang sought to secure laws to help prevent elder abuse, rather than frustration. "Working together, we accom- reform the mental health system and collect delinquent Call 773.338.7722 ext. 13 to make a donation plished many goals for our children and working fami- 30 ROGERS PARK 2000 Sculpting for Joy Part II of a three-part series on members of Rogers Park’s artistic community By Elissa Jones

The Sculptor Noftsier’s ingenuity is not limited to her art. "I could Tara Noftsier, 39, has called Rogers Park home for not afford studio space at first," she explains, "so I worked five years. She notes that many local residents are out of my apartment. I even had a kiln there that my actively involved in artistic pursuits and causes, in some mother bought at an estate sale," she laughs. "After I cases pooling resources to showcase art—one of the rea- molded an object, I would fire up that kiln to bake it. But sons why artists find our community so enticing. The there are chemicals and fumes in pottery glazes, and the Glenwood Avenue Arts District is one such example of kiln gets up to about 2,100 degrees. Having a wood floor residents supporting the arts. Al Goldberg, a local devel- was dangerous!" A few years ago, Noftsier hooked up oper concerned with keeping Rogers Park affordable to with four other artists to rent a 7005 N. Glenwood Ave. artists, formed the district in 2001 "to create an identity as storefront—which they named Phantom Limb—but three an arts destination in Rogers Park". The district, which of those artists have since moved down the street. runs along Glenwood Avenue from Pratt to Touhy Noftsier now shares Phantom Limb with photographer Avenues, is home to theatres, music venues, art galleries Angela Scalisi (one of the original studiomates) and and private studios. Goldberg was honored as Citizen of leather weaver Kevin Kalom. the Year at the Rogers Park Community Council’s annual "Kalom has greatly influenced my work," says meeting November 1 (see front page). Noftsier. "He and I have begun making leather masks Largely self-taught, Noftsier has worked with clay together. First, I shape the mask forms from clay and since high school. Instead of paying for formal instruction, then we basically ‘sculpt’ the leather to the clay," she she opted to purchase equipment, including a pottery explains. "We plan to hold monthly workshops for people wheel. Her specialty is the "tree goddess"—a clay female to come in and learn this creative and fun art form." figure nestled in the bough of a tree. A Savvy Promoter Noftsier’s website, www.dragonbug.com, was designed on a lark. While she stresses that a web page is essential to anyone in business, she also points out Varying in design, Tara Noftsier’s "tree goddess" sculptures that all of her sales have resulted from word of mouth. celebrate womanhood in all her forms. Noftsier, who currently works for a nonprofit agency in Evanston, has 10 years of marketing experience. To sur- Google, MSN, Alta Vista and others. "Or, you can pay a vive, she explains, artists need to promote themselves service to register you, supplying that service with key just as businesses do. words associated with your page—in my case, words like "I’m involved with groups such as DevCorp North," "pottery," "sculpture" and "tree goddess. The more spe- she says, "and in the past, I have donated pieces to silent cific, the better. Also, the website must be several pages auctions at fundraising events. Everyone there sees my long." work, with my name and business card next to it." Noftsier also puts on shows at the studio, and Noftsier also "barters" when money is tight. "If another exhibits in as many local art shows as possible. From an artist and I like each other’s work, we’ll do an exchange," email list of about 60 (largely comprised of names from she says. "And when I started out, I traded my marketing her guest book), she emails patrons about upcoming and graphic-design skills for studio space in a pottery events. store. It was a beautiful experience." She goes on to explain how artists and musicians Sculptor Tara Noftsier continued on page 35 can register their web pages with search engines such as How to Recognize Predatory Lending A Homeowners Alert By Edgar Bajana

very homeowner should be aware of Balloon Payments certain pitfalls before refinancing an ¥ A balloon payment is a huge, one-time E existing home loan or taking out a payment due within the first 15 years of home-equity or home-improvement loan. the loan. Those persons unfamiliar with lending Steering practices may become easy targets for ¥ The borrower is sometimes steered into refinancing companies or cash-out loan high-cost products (mortgages, pro- products. In the rush to maintain the grams) that are designed for less credit- American dream, that dream can quickly worthy borrowers, even if the applicant become a financial disaster. can qualify for a lower-cost product. By keeping aware of predatory lend- Negative Amortization ing practices of mortgage lenders and ¥ Negative amortization occurs when brokers, a homeowner can sidestep grave monthly loan payments are structured financial errors, such as unnecessarily so that the balance due does not go paying high closing costs and high inter- down, even though the borrower makes est rates for mortgages. Being unaware monthly payments. of predatory lending practices may cost A major step to curb predatory prac- the unsuspecting homeowner several tices in Illinois was signed into law by Gov. thousand dollars in loans that "steal" Rod Blagojevich on August 20. The High home equity from the homeowner and put Risk Home Loan Act protects Illinois the family in danger of foreclosure. homeowners from predatory mortgage Following are some of the more com- lenders who make loans based on equity mon predatory lending practices: of the home, rather than the borrower’s High-Cost Loans ability to repay. The Act also allows the ¥ High interest rate on a loan (as com- Illinois Attorney General to prosecute pared to industry average) lenders who make or purchase predatory ¥ High fees and "points" in excess of 5 loans. Borrowers may take limited legal percent of the total loan amount. Loans action against the lender or party who granted without regard to borrower’s holds the loan during a foreclosure or ability to pay default, or who holds the loan within five ¥ Mortgage, insurance, taxes, and sched- years of the loan origination. The Act uled debt (car, credit card, medical, goes into effect January 1, 2004. tuition, etc.) that exceed 50% of the borrower’s income. Edgar Bajana serves as RPCDC’s newest Loan Flipping housing counselor for English and Spanish- ¥ Loan flipping is the act of refinancing a speaking, low to moderate-income families in loan within 12 months of origination Rogers Park. For information or counseling, unless there is a tangible benefit to the call 773.338.7732 ext. 29. borrower. ROGERS PARK 2000 31 Midwest Shorei-Ryu Karate Center THE arketplace 1600 West Morse Avenue m 773.973.6898 As ownersm of the new Midwest Shorei-Ryu martial Women’s self-defense is a key program at Shorei-Ryu. arts school, husband-and-wife team Michael and Mary Doris notes that several women have been attacked in the Doris have a two-fold philosophy: that quality martial arts Morse Avenue area in past weeks, and that local crime instruction should be affordable to local residents, and continues to be a problem. Self-defense instruction is that children should have a safe place to go after school. comprehensive, including prevention, defense tactics, Open since September, Shorei-Ryu offers diverse pro- and mental preparedness. "We teach women to be programming (beginning to advanced) for men, women and active," says Doris. "Learning proper self-defense tech- children. Classes are conducted in traditional karate and niques before an incident has occurred makes a lot more self defense. "Our rates are much more competitive than sense than waiting until afterward," she observes. other schools," says Mary Doris, who has over 25 years Women’s self-defense class is held Tuesday and of experience as an instructor. Thursday evenings from 7:30 to 8:30pm. Unique to Shorei-Ryu is its after-school martial arts program, in which about 15 children (ages 5 to 13) are currently enrolled. Monday through Friday, from 2 to 7pm, Elsewhere on Morse children learn valuable lessons in discipline, courtesy and Northside Outfitters—offering hiphop and urban self-control—qualities that are essential to any martial apparel and accessories for men, women and chil- artist. A special monthly fee of $45 includes a nutritious dren—opened November 21 at 1546-48 W. Morse. snack, homework assistance, activities and instruction. This is store No. 3 for owner Eddie Errej, whose Rates will increase in 2004. Adult classes are offered Monday, Wednesday and other two operations are also located in the area. For store hours and information, call Friday evenings from 7:30 to 8:30pm. A monthly rate of These young martial arts students of Midwest Shorei-Ryu also 773.370.8124. $35 per month (in effect until year-end) includes partici- participate in an after-school program offered Monday pation in all three classes if desired. through Friday, 2 to 7pm. Women’s Arts Program Launches in Local Church By Kathleen McGowan Gruber

he Ibeji Art Project officially took off December 3 at executive director Craig Harshaw. ACCESS Community sharing oneself with other women. United Church of Rogers Park (1545 W. Morse Ave.) Health Network works with Ibeji to provide information on Ibeji is also working to develop Ibeji Women’s T for seniors and community residents on limited health and community resources to participants. Marketplace, a store at which Ibeji Art Project participants incomes. Participants learn to foster their creativity and The project centers around the concept of "twin- will be able to sell their art. The shop will be run by local increase their income through the arts. Ibeji Art Project ning"—"Ibeji" is a Yoruba word meaning "twin". The Yoruba women living with disabilities or economic disadvantages. meets every Wednesday from 11am to 2pm on the sec- people of Nigeria have the highest incidence of twin births Artwork from local residents and artists will be sold in ond floor of the church (accessible by elevator). Supplies in the world, and hold a special reverence for twins. They time for the holiday season! and snacks are provided to participants of this free pro- believe the defining essence of twins lies in the paradox of For information about Ibeji (including donations and gram. how they are at once different and separate, but very much volunteer opportunities), call Selena Awoleye at Insight Arts (a community arts organization working the same. 773.761.7306, Joanna Barnhart (DevCorp North) at for social justice and human rights) is hosting Ibeji Art Likewise, each woman is unique, but in many ways 773.508.5885 or Kathleen Gruber (ACCESS community Project, with additional support provided by Insight Arts the same as other women. "Twinning" is the experience of program manager) at 773.764.7146. 32 ROGERS PARK 2000 ROGERS PARK 2000 33 October Job BEATBy Bonnie Tipton Long arts Fair Draws "Peoplearts must not do things for fun. We are not here for fun. Runs February 13 through April 18. There is no reference to fun in any Act of Parliament." Blueberry muffin-loving polar bears are running the -- A. P. Herbert, Uncommon Law show over at Lifeline’s KidSeries when Bongo Larry and Two Bad Bears opens January 24. Mind you, Martin Large Crowd bviously somebody got up on the wrong side of the Frobisher’s poetry-spouting, bongo-playing pet polar bear bed. On the other hand, large doses of fun in close Larry is a good bear. But Irving and Muktuk have been pproximately 250 job seekers attended a free O intervals can be debilitating. So pace yourself when concocting disguises with which to sneak into the October 15 job/career fair at Loyola Park field house scheduling your winter arts activities in Rogers Park. Blueberry Muffin Festival—for shame! Tickets $8 and (1230 W. Greenleaf Ave.). The event was funded by under. (You can still catch The Cricket in Times Square A the Irvin Stern Foundation (a charitable trust committed to the side project until January 4.) empowering urban communities) and co-sponsored by 1520 W. Jarvis Ave. Ald. Joe Moore (49th ward), Project J.O.B.S., DevCorp 773.973.2150 Raven Theatre North and West Ridge Chamber of Commerce. Volunteer Let’s play ‘guess who.’ You get three hints and 30 6157 N. Clark St. seconds to name this theater company. Hint No. 1: Its 773.338.2177 mission is "to explore humanity at the peak of adversity by Handsome Lake is a Native American who cannot showing the individual in relation to society, striving for the tell stories. Luckily, the Storytelling Star is on the scene betterment of both through the portrayal of life’s with all kinds of myths and legends about the sun. Raven extremes." Hint No. 2: It specializes in new works and Theatre’s Children’s Program presents Here Comes the late-night fare, including the original six-month run of Sun through January 4. Tickets are $8. Sock Puppet Showgirls. Hint No. 3: Beginning January Raven’s hilarious Social Security, about a happy, 15, it will present a revival of The Elephant Man.Time’s urbane couple who suffer through the extended visit of a up. If you guessed the side project at 1520 W. Jarvis, you relative, has been held over till January 11. After that, see win. Tickets are $15. the Arthur Miller fable The Man Who Had all the Luck, Chances are that if you went to high school, you read about a young man with the misfortune of getting every- Stephen Crane’s The Red Badge of Courage. Well, the side thing his heart desires. Dates to be announced. project isn’t doing that story. However, it will present Adam assistance was contributed by Rotary Club-Rogers Park Webster’s adaptation of Crane’s 1896 tale Maggie: A Girl of North Lakeside Cultural Center and Howard Area Community Center. the Streets beginning February 21. Tickets are $10. 6219 N. Sheridan Rd. "The job fair provided me with a unique opportunity to 773.743.4477 meet with representatives of several organizations," said Boxer Rebellion Theater There’s still time to see the Chicago premier of local resident Nanik Gurnani, who has recently updated 1257 W. Loyola Ave. William Inge’s Natural Affection over at North Lakeside his resume under the guidance of Tony Roberson, a vol- 773.465.7325 Cultural Center (NLCC). This is the story of Sue, whose unteer "job coach" with the Rogers Park Community Someone’s imagination was working overtime when abandoned teenaged son suddenly appears, disrupting Council (RPCC). Job coaches work with local seniors at Assassins came about. How else to explain a Sondheim her life. Call it a Christmas story minus the warmth. RPCC to create resumes, locate employment opportuni- musical about the likes of John Wilkes Booth, Lynette Tickets are $15. Call 773.293.1358 for reservations. ties and apply for positions. "Squeaky" Fromme, John Hinckley and Lee Harvey More lives are disrupted by the unscheduled arrivals Recruiting employers at the job fair included Oswald? Intrigued? The show runs through December of friends and progeny in Edward Albee’s Pulitzer Prize- ACCESS Community Health Network, Addus Healthcare, 20. Tickets are $15. winning play A Delicate Balance. Witness the assault on Z-Frank Chevrolet, Cognisa Security, Harmony Health the lives of upper-middle- class couple Tobias and Agnes Plan, Servicios Villareal, Target, Illinois State Police, Lifeline Theatre in this Pyewacket Theatre production. Opens February 13. Securitas, Lakefront Supportive Housing, Thorek Hospital 6912 N. Glenwood Ave. and others. Many community organizations also partici- 773.761.4477 pated: Center for Ecomonic Progress, Chicago Health The battle of Gettysburg and its key military leaders Bonnie Tipton Long is executive director of North Lakeside Outreach, Alternatives Inc., Amerigroup, Asian Human take center stage in Lifeline’s The Killer Angels, a brilliant, Cultural Center. She is also a musician and educator who Services, Empti-Spoon Job Service and Breakthrough intimate look at the emotions and personalities behind works with Gallery 37, Ars Musica Chicago and other organi- Urban Ministries.For a listing of employers, call one of the most pivotal conflicts in our nation’s history. zations. 773.338.7722 ext. 11. 34 ROGERS PARK 2000 Para la comunidad latino “Principal for a Day”en la Escuela Jordan De Araceli Vallarta Quiroz

a escuela Jordan Community fue una de las ager" de WGN-TV, quien fue asignada los grados 1, 2 y las y por lo tanto a los estudi- varias escuelas de la comunidad de Rogers 3, visito los salones de clases en compañia del Dr. antes. “L Park que participaron en el septimo evento Maurice Harvey, el principal permanente de Jordan. annual "Chicago Principal for a Day" (PFD). Durante el dia, Wilson leyo a algunos salones de clase. Mas Eventos a Jordan Este evento se llevo a cabo el 29 de Octubre. El progra- Despues volvio a reunirse con el equipo administrativo Hubo otros grandes acontecimientos en la Jordan; uno ma consiste en que lideres communitarios y empresarios para hablar sobre las actividades del dia y discutir el de ellos fue la Cena de Apreciacion a los Padres. Esta locales se ofrecen como voluntarios para asistir a una desarrollo de las actividades de compañerismo. cena se realizo el 15 de Octubre y conto con la presen- escuela de su eleccion y ser los principales por un dia. Los grados intermedios (4 and 5) estuvieron a cargo de cia de personas importantes, por ejamplo, Deloris Jordan La diferencia en esta año fue que el Mayor Daley reto a Walter Eckenhoff, el arquitecto principal de Eckenhoff, (la madre de Michael Jordan) y Althea Williams (la madre los voluntarios de PFDs a que forjaran un compañerismo Saunders Architects. De hecho fue el quien diseño la de Jay Williams, un jugador de los Chicago Bulls); Dee a largo plazo con sus escuelas y aque dedicaran su tiem- Jordan. El estuvo en una asamblea con los estudiantes tambien asistio a esta cena. La escuela Jordan es la po a los niños "no por un dia, pero por un año entero," dijo en la cual hablaron sobre la vida y carreras para los estu- primera en tener el programa antiviolencia, Partner For Daley en una conferencia. diantes. En esta asamblea tambien los reto a dar lo Antiviolence Awareness Community Training (PAACT). En Jordan, tres personas fueron los PFDs: Barbara mejor de ellos. Dee, la tercera PFD, realizo las mismas En este programa, los estudiantes de los grados 3 a 6 Wilson, Walter Eckenhoff y Merry Dee. Cada uno de ellos actividades que Eckenhoff pero con los estudiantes de tuvieron la oportunidad de participar en una preasamblea fue asignado un grupo de grados deferentes pero tambi- los grados 6, 7 y 8. de actividades de como menegar situaciones rela- en una seria de actividades similares. Al inicio del dia los "El programa (PFD) nos da la oportunidad de fomen- cionadas con violencia. El programa finalizo con una PFDs assistieron a una recepcion de bienvenida y tar un compañerismo con lideres empresarios y comuni- asamblea en la cual se incluyo una demostracion de despues a una reunion con todo el equipo administrativo tarios," dijo Willie White III (del programa "LAUNCH" de movimientos de defensa personal realizada por Iron Fist de Jordan, donde tuvieron la oportunidad de discutir Northwestern University). "Provee recursos a nuestra International (3845 N. Broadway), una escuela de artes asuntos pertinentes a la educacion publica y a Jordan, escuela tales como dinero y tutorias," continuo. Este marciales. con pequeños grupos de maestos. Wilson, "credit man- evento es muy importante ya que beneficia a las escue- “Principal for a Day” en la Sullivan High School De Araceli Vallarta Quiroz

a cultura y legado de cada estudiante Medical Career Academy, un programa que provee a los Socraticos) forman parte del concepto paideia , por lo enriquece toda la comunidad escolar y deben estudiantes con habilidades para que en un futuro tanto Sullivan los ha estado llevando a cabo desde 1984. “L ser repetados". Esta es una filosofia y un puedan terminar una carrera en el campo del cuidado de En estos seminaries los estudiantes y maestros en exam- proposito de la Sullivan High School. Para la la salud. Para mas informacion sobre este programa inan textos, regularmente clasicos, exponen sus opinions comunidad escolar de la Sullivan, lo primordial es comuniquence con M. Lang, 773.534.2000. y puntos de vista sobre los textos. Socratic Seminars proveerle a todos los estudiantes la misma calidad de Otros programas ofrecidos en Sullivan son: incitan a los estudiantes a explorer y evaluar ideas con el educacion permitiendoles a cada uno de ellos la oportu- ESL/Bilingual Curricula (para aquellos estudiantes que el proposito de que lleguen a ser pensadores criticos efec- nidad de llegar a ser un ciudadano un una democracia y Ingles no es su primer idioma), Fine Arts, ACT tivos. un aprendiz de por vida. Esta es la razon del por la cual Preparatory, College Bridge y Tutorias en Sabados. Sullivan a desarrollado un programa educacional que Paideia y Paideia Preparatory program son otros progra- reune todas las necesidades de estudiantes de diferentes mas incluidos en Sullivan. La palabra Paideia viene de Araceli Vallarta Quiroz cursa su cuarto año en la Sullivan High culturas y antecedents academicos. Esta escuela cuen- origen y significa "los conocimientos generales que todos School, y participa en el programa bilingue de la misma. A ta con una gran variedad de programas tales como el deberian poseer". Socratic Seminars (seminaries vivido en Rogers Park por los ultimos cuatro años Señales de Prestamos Fraudulentos para Duenos de Casa De Edgar Bajana

i estas pensando en refinanciar su hipoteca, sacar dolares a los duenos de casa. Estos prestamos roban la prestador. un prestamo sobre la equidad de su casa, o un equidad a los duenos y ponen la familia en peligro de una S prestamo para reparaciones, existan grandes ejeccucion hipotecaria. Pago de Globo desventajas que los duenos de casa necesitan saber. ¥ Una enorme cantida de pago que necesita ser pagado Muchas familias no estan muy familiarizados con los Prestamos con costos altos antes de los 15 anos del prestamo. diferentes tipos de prestamos. Esto los hace susceptibles ¥ Tasas altas de interes comparados con otras para companies refinancieras y los diferentes prestamos ¥ Costos exceso de 5% de la cantidad de prestamo Influenciar que le regrese dinero en effectivo. A la medida que los ¥ Los prestadores son dirigidos a productos con costos duenos de casa tratan de mantener el sueno Americano, Prestamos procesados sin la habilidad de pagarlo. altos, que han sido disenados para personas con cred- el sueno se puede convirtir en desastre financiero, si los ¥ La hipoteca, aseguransa, impuestos y otras deudas ito no perfecto aun cuado pueden calificar para un pro- dueno de casa no estan enterados de los prestamos (carro, tarjetas de credito, medico, etc.) no deben de ducto de costo mas bajo. fraudulentos. excederse 50% del, ingresso del prestador Al estar informado, los duenos de casa puedan evi- Amortizacion negativa tar los errores y incessarios costos de cierres y altas "Flipping" de Prestamo ¥ Los pagos mensuales del prestamos son estructurados tazas de intereses. Ademas, el no estar enterado de ¥ Un prestamo es refinanciado en menos de 12 meses de de modo que no vayan al principal, aun cuado se hacen practices fraudulentas les puede causar varios miles de la orinazion almenos que exista en beneficio para el pagos mensuales.

Al final, en el 20 de augosto, un paso importante fue dado para contener las practices fraudulentas. Una Centro de Consejeria de la nueva ley fue firmada por el Governador de Illinois, Rod Blagojevich. El "High Risk Home Loan Act" permite al Attorney General de Illinois, Lisa Madigan, de procesar en la corte a pretamistas por hacer o comprar prestamos Comunidad de Chicago fraudulentos. Los prestarios pueden tomar accion legal contra el prestamista que tiene el prestamo cuado se De Susan Kogan hace una ejecuccion hipotecaria o no puede hacer pagos cinco anos depues que el prestamo fue hecho. La nueva ley entra en efecto el 1 de enero, 2004. l Centro de Consejeria de la Comunidad de Chicago Si usted o alguien que usted conoce padece de (C4) abre sus puertas a la comunidad latina de depresión o ansiedad, y reside en el area de Rogers E Rogers Park. En su centro de atención (en el 2525 Park, Edgewater o Uptown y habla español; llame al W. Peterson), se ofrecen servicios de salud mental espe- 773.506.2525 para solicitar una consulta. C4 se cialmente para la comunidad latina residente en el area enorgullese de servir a la comunidad latina en la ciudad Edgar Bajana es el nuevo consejero al Rogers Park Community de Rogers Park, Edgewater y Uptown. Los servicios de Chicago. Development Corp. Por una cita, llame a 773.338.7732 ext. incluyen consejeria individual, grupos de apoyo y servi- 29. cios psiquiátricos en español para adultos con dificul- tades emocionales e interpersonales. Susan Kogan es directora de C4 Peterson. ROGERS PARK 2000 35

Rating System: Sculpting for Joy corner EXCELLENT with Cathy Vates VERY GOOD continued from page 30 literaryliterary FAIR POOR

In the cold winter months when daylight fades fast, what could "I send notices out two months early asking people to be more pleasant than curling up in a warm, comfortable chair save the date. Then, a month prior, I send another notice, with a good book? Spending a blustery evening at home read- and then a few days before the event, yet another one." ing helps me face the next day refreshed and ready to go. Here one with a single parent. The book looks into the chal- The subject headers of her email messages are are a couple of winners for your winter reading list. lenges of each family type, dealing with expectations and descriptive enough to catch the recipient’s attention. struggles of intergenerational family life. It is well written, "Sometimes, I include a photo of a sculpture in the The Vineyard with good character development and a twisting plot. email—but I keep it small, because photos take time to Truly a good read! load and not everyone has a high-speed internet connec- by Barbara Delinsky tion. Also, it’s best to ‘blind carbon copy’ recipients so that email addresses remain hidden." I have read many books by Delinsky and enjoyed No Second Chance Noftsier’s biggest goal is to broaden her market. most of them, though The Commitment was not a bell Because a single tree goddess takes three days to com- ringer for me. Maybe the topic didn’t fit the season or I By Harlan Coben plete, she has considered approaching a manufacturer was too sensitive to appreciate the story line—a mother who might be willing to mass-produce them. Ultimately, who places her handicapped child in a home and On a very different theme, Harlan Coben’s No Noftsier’s "dream job" is to use art to help disadvantaged becomes involved with a TV reporter turned Second Chance is a mystery thriller about a child abduc- youth find constructive ways for self-expression. She murderer/turned convict/turned lover. That one didn’t tion and other family trials. Marc Seidman, a successful points out that art programs have been drastically cut from make my top-ten list. surgeon, has been the victim of an assailant’s attack that public-school curriculae. In the past, she has conducted The Vineyard, on the other hand, is a charming tale has killed his wife, while his six-month-old daughter is mask workshops enabling teenagers to express how they of single mom Olivia and her dyslexic child Tess. Olivia taken by kidnappers. He receives a note warning him that perceive themselves. "One young girl drew really big lips works as a photo restorer until her boss retires and clos- he gets "no second chance" to claim his daughter and on her mask because her mother thought she talked too es shop, and she finds work as the personal assistant of that he is not to notify police or FBI. much," Noftsier recalls. "But another child remarked that a (former) client for whom she has restored many photos. He turns to his father-in-law for help, the FBI she disagreed, giving the girl a more positive perspec- In fact, Olivia had spun a fantasy around these old photos becomes involved, and the ransom attempt fails—the kid- tive." In the future, Noftsier sees herself traveling to group and the people in them. nappers get the money but he does not get the child. The homes in a van to administer art therapy programs, per- In her new position, she is asked to write narrative to story then focuses on the relationship between our hero haps establishing her own agency. accompany the photos, but the real story is not at all the and one of the FBI agents (a former girlfriend), and the For now, though, she enjoys living in Rogers Park one she imagined. Olivia becomes deeply involved with paths each has taken in life. Marc continues to search for and participating in local events. The Glenwood Avenue all the family members and their efforts to protect the fam- his child, eventually returning to his work, and after a long Arts Fair (held October 4 in honor of Illinois Arts Week) ily wine-making business and vineyards. The story time passes, he is contacted again by the kidnappers. At drew several hundred visitors throughout the day. Noftsier relates a fact that those of us enjoying the "golden years" this point, the story becomes a real page-turner, with was one of the many artists who opened her studio to the know well—our own children are usually the last to see us many twists and turns that add to the fabric of suspense public during the fair, which included stages for theatre as "real" people. and intrigue. The character development of the "bad and music, interactive activities for children and adults, The matron of the vineyard, Natalie Seebring, is try- guys" is excellent. No Second Chance is ultimately a tale activities in art therapy, games, drumming and world ing to put her life on paper for future generations. of great, unfailing hope in the face of terror and fear. I music. Noftsier also hosts semi-private open studios at Recently widowed, she plans to marry a long-time friend. highly recommend it for when things begin to look dull Phantom Limb three times a year. "I have been extreme- Her children are upset that she is about to remarry so and gray—great winter reading! ly blessed to be able to sell my work!" she says. soon after their father’s death—and to one of the vineyard’s "hired hands" to boot. This interesting and realistic tale is one of people living out difficult decisions and Cathy Vates, an avid reader, serves as director of Rogers Park struggling with life problems. Olivia finds more than a Community Development Corporation (RPCDC), which offers A resident of West Ridge, Elissa Jones plays both the violin and summer job when she travels to the vineyard (with daugh- education to first-time homebuyers, condominium owners, mandolin, and sings with the Old Town School of Folk Music’s ter Tess), growing a great deal in the process. landlords and other property owners. RPCDC also supports Soul Ensemble. Jones may be reached at 773.203.2374 or via This book was interesting because of the portrait it responsible development in our community. Vates may be email at [email protected]. paints of two family structures—one very traditional and reached at 773.338.7722 ext. 19. 36 ROGERS PARK 2000 St. Paul’s Computer Learning Center Off to Swell Start By David Roeder

fter a successful campaign for financial and com- standard of living for the Sudanese. Twenty years of war Trust, $5,000 from an anonymous donor, and another munity support, St. Paul’s Church by-the-Lake in have destroyed so many schools that "three generations $5,000 from St. Paul’s. The Rogers Park Builders Group A Rogers Park (7100 N. Ashland Ave.) has opened its of Sudanese have gone without (schools),’’ he said, not- donated labor and materials to establish CLC. Additional Computer Learning Center (CLC) to offer low-cost training that with training received in the U.S., some refugees sponsors include AskMe for Training, CustomGuide Inc., ing to area residents. do return home as teachers and doctors. "We are going MLC Properties, Camelot Realty and Mr. John Atwood. Adults and students in the 6th grade and higher can to start with zero, and will be hard (to do that)," he told an The church is seeking additional support for future take classes in the parish hall Course instruction is avail- audience of about 70 people, including members of sev- operations. Information about the program is available at able in basic keyboard, Internet and e-mail usage, and in eral area churches that have helped the Sudanese. 773.764.6514 or at www.stpaulsbylake.org. popular programs such as Microsoft Word and Excel (see The refugees came "not because they wanted to go sidebar for further information about classes). to the United States. They came because the war was David Roeder, a 17-year resident of East and West Rogers Park CLC is designed to improve job and communication terrorizing them," Bishop Bul explains. With parents often and long-time St. Paul’s parishioner, is a business reporter for skills, especially among those with limited incomes. slain and sisters taken away for slavery or prostitution, the the Chicago Sun-Times. He enjoys taking his family to local While church-supported, the program is open to all, so-called Lost Boys of Sudan have become the benefi- hotspots Leona’s and Gulliver’s—and working off the calories regardless of religious affiliation. ciaries of assistance from several religious institutions at the High Ridge YMCA! Helping the neediest was on the minds of St. Paul and other organizations. Banding together for protection, parishioners and others present for the formal unveiling of the Sudanese walked hundreds of miles to camps in bor- CLC November 6. Daniel Bul, an Anglican bishop of dering countries, seeking safety and freedom. Sudan, presided at a ceremony dedicating the center. St. One Sudanese refugee in attendance at the dedication was 21-year-old Jok Free and Low-Cost Wel, a Truman College student who has been in the Computer Training in U.S. for more than two years. "The United States has been very good to us. Rogers Park I’m learning new things and improving my English," he RPCC Senior Technology Resource Center says. (1530 W. Morse Ave.) Kettelkamp hopes Contact: Cathie Bazzon, 773.338.7722 ext. 11 the center will draw a Established in June of 2003 by the Rogers Park diverse student body. He Community Council (RPCC) Senior Initiatives Program, says skills learned in St. Senior Technology Resource Center (STRC) offers free com- Paul’s and other local train- puter training to all local residents age 60-plus. All classes ing programs can serve a are held in small groups (three maximum) to ensure that stu- variety of practical uses: dents receive adequate attention. Schedules vary. Classes creating or enhancing include the ten-week "Microsoft Word for Beginners" and six- resumes and other docu- week "Introduction to the Internet" (including establishment ments, teaching secretarial of e-mail accounts). In September, STRC added a job-coach- skills, and giving parents ing program whereby clients receive assistance creating and guardians the Internet resumes, writing effective cover letters, posting resumes on- know-how to help children line (with monster.com, hotjobs.com and other websites), with homework. researching employment opportunities and applying for jobs. Outside of classroom times, three computer stations are Together with Rev. Kenneth Smith, senior fellow at Chicago Community Trust (far right) and Classes meet on available for individual use Monday through Friday, 9am to Fr. John Heschle of St. Paul’s Church by-the-Lake (right), Bishop Daniel Bul of Sudan presides weeknights. All students 5pm. STRC recruits and trains volunteer instructors and job over the November 6 dedication of St. Paul’s Computer Learning Center. are required to pay a $20 fee for course materials; coaches on an ongoing basis. Senior Initiatives is funded by course fees are based on a grant from the Chicago Department on Aging. Paul’s Fr. John Heschle described Bul’s presence as ability to pay, with the maximum fee set at $150. Classes especially fitting since the program grew from an idea are small, with no more than six students per teacher. Howard Area Community Center (1623 W. Howard St.) parishioners had for assisting Sudanese immigrants. To fund its first year of operations, the center Contact: Nichole Meier, 773.262.3515 Many Sudanese who settle on Chicago’s north side received a $20,000 grant from the Chicago Community Howard Area Community Center (HACC) offers several after fleeing civil war in their Microsoft-based, introductory courses: Windows XP, Word, homeland come to St. Excel and Access. Students learn to create, modify, cus- Paul’s. Heschle says tomize and print documents in various programs, and to parishioners are deeply browse the internet, use internet search engines, apply for moved by the challenges jobs on-line and create e-mail accounts. HACC has an Open and deprivations faced by Lab (available daily) with 11 computers connected to a net- the Sudanese people. worked printer. Successful completion of HACC’s Basic Skills "Their faith is truly Tutorial Training is required before enrollment. There is no inspiring and their desire to charge for courses. learn is enormous,’’ he remarks. According to Jim St. Paul’s Church by-the-Lake Computer Learning Center Kettelkamp, a computer (7100 N. Ashland Ave.) consultant who serves as Contact: Jim Kettelkamp, 773.262.9420 or 773.743.1504 CLC coordinator, 31 people St. Paul’s Church by-the-Lake offers evening instruction have registered for courses to children and adults in the sixth grade and higher. thus far. Six of them are Microsoft-based classes include Word, Excel, Access, Sudanese. The church PowerPoint, Internet and E-mail, Basic Typing and Resume hopes to attract many more Writing. Courses are available at three levels: Module I of the 100-plus Sudanese (introductory, 6 to 8 hours), Module II (intermediate, 6 to 8 refugees currently living in hours) and Module III (advanced, 12 to 14 hours). the community and sur- Prerequisites for advanced training include basic computer Marty Max, president of MLC Properties and vice president of Rogers Park Builders Group, rounding area. hardware knowledge and completion of Module I and/or spearheaded efforts to convert St. Paul’s leaky basement into the comfortable and inviting At the CLC dedication, Module II. Registration begins in January and ends in April. Computer Learning Center that exists today. Max was recently honored at Rogers Park Bishop Bul noted American Fees may range from $0 to $150, depending on ability to pay. Community Council’s annual meeting and fundraiser November 1 (see story on page 15). aid is key to improving the Trilogy Inc. Group Services Program (1400 W. Greenleaf Ave.) Contact: Nancy Starkman, 773.508.6100 Trilogy Inc. offers a variety of development, vocational How to Write a Winning Resume and employment training programs to clients with psychiatric disabilities. A new computer training workshop focuses on Microsoft Word and Excel. Instruction is provided on an indi- continued from page 3 vidual basis and meets twice a week in the Trilogy computer lab (10 to 15 computers available). Fee is determined by income level. 10. Omit salary information. Never make any reference come back to haunt the job seeker. Since employers usu- to salary history or request a particular salary range in a ally check into serious candidates, make sure every detail resume. is accurate and legitimate. 11. References. Employers assume that job seekers Information compiled by Tony Roberson, a real-estate con- have professional references. Use the statement "refer- sultant with Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage (serving the Rogers Park area). Roberson, who volunteers as a ences available upon request" only to signal the end of a Sharon F. Wilson serves as employment counselor for the job coach with the RPCC Senior Initiatives program, may lengthy resume or to round out the design. Rogers Park Community Council’s Victim Advocacy Support be reached at (312) 437-4443. 12. Be honest. Lying or exaggerating abilities will always Program. She may be reached at 773.338.7722, x16. ROGERS PARK 2000 37 FOOD FUN Sweet Occasions By Evelyn J. Thompson

1622 W. Morse Ave Eye-popping "single- 773.262.0880 scoop" servings start at $1.90, depending on type Hours: Monday through Friday, of cone. The nicest thing of 7am to 9pm all is a child-size serving of Saturday, 8am to 9pm ice cream (cake-cone or cup) for only $1.25. The Sunday, 11:30am to 7pm "small" serving that the friendly staff dish up for This delightful sweet shop is just what the neighbor- local children is unbeliev- hood ordered! Visitors to Sweet Occasions can satisfy a able! Generosity may be sweet tooth with a variety of decadent treats, including hard to come by these ice-cream, domestic and imported candy bars and choco- days, but this candy shop lates, dreamy baked dessert items, 400 kinds of hard exemplifies that concept. candies, lollipop bouquets, sinful smoothies and sundaes, Sweet Occasions also milkshakes, floats, malts and blooming candy bouquets. offers 19 blends of rich, fla- The specialty at Sweet Occasions is colorful, imagi- vorful Hawaiian Kona cof- native candy bouquets and arrangements for every occa- fee (hot or iced), which may One scoop or two? Staff person David Hannah poses in front of the menu board at Sweet sion—perfect as corporate or personal gifts. One bou- be bought by the cup or in Occasions. The Morse Avenue location is No. 2 for this retailer, which plans to open yet a third quet—"U R My Sunshine"—is a huge yellow blossom of sealed bags. Also available store in Uptown. lemon-flavored candies in a pretty red pot. "Take Me Out are Ashby’s English teas to the Ball Game" is a Chicago Cubs container bursting (by the cup or in artfully labeled gift boxes), hot or iced Unique items abound, such as "Star of David" candy with Big League Chew, Cracker Jack, peanuts and other chai, juices and sodas. Those customers looking for a boxes, chocolate cigars to celebrate the birth of a baby (in traditional game goodies. "Sweet Swing" is just the thing snack or light meal before dessert will be tempted by the blue or pink foil), wind-up toys, music boxes and many for golfers—a ceramic golf bag brimming with chocolate selection of sandwiches and paninis handmade and theme gifts. One popular item is a candy bar with a spe- golf balls, candy cigars, caramels and other delights. And delivered daily by Mimi (French Traditional, Latin Suede cial "wish" wrapper bearing such messages as Get Well, any youngster would be thrilled to unload "Sweet Ride", a and Ham Citronette, to name a few). Since the store is Happy Anniversary, Keep Smiling and Good Luck. mini Radio Flyer wagon steered by a darling toy monkey open so early, customers may conveniently stop in for cof- Sweet Occasions opened in July in the lobby office and positively overflowing with treats. These "candy bou- fee on the way to work and pick up a fresh croissant or space of a large, remodeled apartment building. The quets" are so colorful and cheery, it is a shame to even sweet roll provided by Wicker Park bakery "Sweet Thang". store’s cozy, inviting interior features exposed brick walls think of eating them! Sweet Occasions has just enlarged the sandwich and and lots of natural wood. A lovely patio surrounded by Customers may choose from 28 distinctive arrange- dessert selection with mousses, tiramisu and other items. greenery provides seating at large, umbrella-shaded ments (with choice of candy) or opt for a completely orig- Sweet Occasions decorates indoors and out accord- tables (and special kid-size chairs). Hopefully, summer inal design. All gifts may be ordered at the store itself, ing to every season and holiday. This past Halloween, big will be back soon so that we can all enjoy our ice cream from a catalog or via the Sweet Occasions website at beautiful pumpkins were artfully arranged beside the outdoors! www.eatsweets.com. door. Eyeball candles were placed along the entire length Another Sweet Occasions specialty is ultra-rich ice of the counter. Spider and ghost chocolates were dis- Evelyn J. Thompson has been studying Chicago’s ethnic mar- cream from The Chocolate Factory in Madison, played by the candy wall—a "corridor" of 28 self-serve kets and cuisines for 20 years, giving ethnic grocery store tours Wisconsin. The store features a rotating daily assortment bins of individually wrapped hard candies (butterscotch, for the last 7 of those 20. On those tours, Thompson covers of 110 intense flavors such as dulce de leche, caramel dulce de leche, butter toffee, chocolate mint, cinnamon, food history, use of ingredients, cuisines and their taste princi- apple pie, peanut butter cup, brownie explosion, black blueberries-n-cream, mint and more). On a nearby table ples, origins of fruits and vegetables, influences of invasions, licorice, cherry chocolate chip, blueberry cheesecake, sat a large dish of candy from whose center sprouted a neighborhood history and recipes. Individual tours may be orange custard chocolate chip, cotton candy twist, mint ghoulish hand. Lovely, hand-crafted Halloween cards arranged through Thompson at 773.465.8065 ext 2. Visit her avalanche and key lime pie—and yes, of course, choco- were also for sale. In front of the ice-cream station sat website at wwwcomputersandfood.com, or email evelyn@eth- late and vanilla! buckets of gourmet imported chocolate bars. nic-grocery-tours.com. 38 ROGERS PARK 2000

Pumpkin Pancakes Makes 6 servings (2 per person) Prep time: 30 minutes

1 cup all-purpose flour _ tsp salt _ cup yellow cornmeal _ cup pumpkin (canned or freshly cooked) _ cup brown sugar (firmly packed) 12/3 cups lowfat buttermilk 1_tsp baking powder 2 tbs vegetable oil _ tsp nutmeg 1 egg white _ tsp cinnamon 2 whole eggs

Combine first seven ingredients in large mixing bowl and stir well. Separately, combine buttermilk, pumpkin, oil, eggs and egg white, stirring well. Add to flour mixture, stirring until smooth. Spoon roughly 1/3 cup batter onto hot nonstick skillet. Cook approximately 1 minute on each side or until done. (Note: Bubbles will not form on top and edges may not appear fully cooked.)

Recipe provided by Conn’s Catering, 1535 West Devon Ave. For a free copy of Conn’s 2004 Recipe Calendar, call 773.262.CONN (2666). For information about catering menus, visit www.connscater- ing.com.

Evelyn Thompson (foreground) accepts a 2003 Good Eating Award from editor Carol Haddix (left). WGN’s Dean Richards (background) and Spago’s Amanda Puck (right) emceed the November 10 event.

Congratulations, Evelyn!

Rogers Parker Evelyn Thompson, a long-time contributor to the Chicago Tribune’s popular Good Eating section, was one of 12 individuals honored at the 2003 Good Eating Awards held November 10 at Spago restaurant. Thompson is recognized as a connoisseur of our fair city’s ethnic markets and cuisines. Over the past seven years, her one-of-a-kind ethnic grocery tours have provided tourists and locals alike with a rare and delightful glimpse into Chicagoland’s ethnic treasures. Since 1997, Thompson has authored Rogers Park 2000’s Food Fun—a regular feature highlighting eater- ies and food retailers throughout the community. ROGERS PARK 2000 39 The chance at the playoffs." The Apaches who abduct Lily are not a whole tribe just doing what comes naturally. They are Popcorn clearly just a group who have broken off to become white slavers (most of the Apaches during this period have more important things to do—like being "relo- Papers cated" by the U.S. Army). Also, there are never just "indians". There are three distinct tribes represented A MOVIE REVIEW in the film, each with individual beliefs and practices. Unfortunately, the filmmaker forgets this even-hand- By Kevin A. Gutteron & David D. Jones edness when the Mexicans show up. (Note: This is “brothers separated by gene splicing” not a give-away of the ending. We know the bad guys are heading for Mexico 15 minutes into the film, and you don’t think they’re going down there to sell slaves to the Irish, do you?) They (the Mexicans) look like stock extras from "The Three Amigos", all but passing a jug of tequila amongst themselves. It makes me wonder if maybe Howard was a little rushed when he shot that part of the movie.

D: Oh Kevin, I don’t know about rushed stereotyped characters and themes in classical westerns. But it was just a bit noticeable that all the blond caucasian females were damn near the only ones left alive at the The Missing end of the film. Not to delve too deep into transient zeitgeists in contemporary genres, but to quote Mel David: Ron Howard cranks out a thriller-action- Brooks, "Where are all the white women at?" That mystery-western, now with horses. glaring oversight aside, the film is fairly good, it just doesn’t have any outstanding quality. So much equal Kevin: Maggie Gilkeson (Cate Blanchett) is living time is given to each scene (action scene-drama the hard life of a woman in old New Mexico, not only scene-mystic allusion-chase scene, etc.) that the film being the doctor for the locals but also running her is "bloated" with extra time. Howard needs to pick farm with the help of her handyman Brake (Aaron one story and drive it home as events evolve around Eckhart) and her two daughters, teen-aged Lily the characters. Not to say that this hasn’t been done (Evan Rachel Wood) and little Dot (Jenna Boyd). well before, it’s just that no single story really When her father Samuel (Tommy Lee Jones) arrives emerges to grab you and sweep you into it. on the scene, she brushes off his attempts at reconcil- iation. (He had abandoned the family to live with the K: The word David is looking for here is "episodic". Native Americans and adopt their ways.) But when In looking at the movie as a whole, it is a story about an evil band of Apaches and deserters—led by a a woman who comes to terms with her father while powerful brujo-witch played by Eric Schweig—kills trying to rescue her daughter. But there are very few Brake and abducts Lily, Samuel returns to help individual scenes that weave these two stories togeth- Maggie and Dot get her back. er. Instead, there is a chase scene, then a family scene, followed by an escape attempt scene, which D: The film starts off where all is cold and foggy. leads into another family scene. It’s like some odd You never see to the end of the horizon, and the char- dramatic bi-athlon, where the athletes must ride a acters are content and happy plodding along in the horse 50 miles, then stop to make their granddaugh- well-worn grooves of their lives. Once Samuel’s ter smile. Each story is interesting in its own right, attempts to reconnect with his family are summarily but it rarely seems to all come together. Fortunately, dismissed, their lives spiral into an American west- there are some elements that make this film worth ern’s attempt at Russian tragedy. As Brake takes the watching. If the story’s pacing is its weakness, then daughters off to brand some newborn cattle, he states the strong acting performances in the major roles are that he and the girls will be back by sunset. its strength. Right here, the educated moviegoer has absolutely no illusions that they are coming back. D: Tommy Lee Jones is normally wonderful at play- The director has in no way indicated that something ing Tommy Lee Jones, but it’s a coin toss as to bad will happen; no mysterious noises or lurkers just whether he was simply just reading his lines and out of sight. Yet the film screams that horrible, terri- remembering his marks, or if he had truly immersed ble, awful, rotten, yucky things will happen. So himself in the culture and was bringing to the audi- wasting five minutes to show Maggie staring out ence some fairly complex cultural nuances. Nah, he through the sunset, then staring into the night, and was just reading his lines. However, there were three then into the foggy dawn just drags out. It just does- strong performances by Cate Blanchett, Jenna Boyd n’t add any suspense. (the young daughter) and Eric Schweig (the evil So, Maggie rides out and finds one farm hand brujo). Blanchett shifted easily from enraged daugh- dead (oh no) and nude (shock), and the other—a ter to hurt mother, strong healer, victim and resigned slight love interest—is dead but in a really weird way killer. Her grief and fear were believable, but she (gasp), and her oldest daughter’s bonnet and clothes rarely has trouble playing strong vulnerable women are laying nearby. (Cue the music: dum-de-dum- (i.e., Elizabeth). dum.) She's been taken by injuns!! (Shock and pre- Eric Schweig is wonderful as the evil brujo, Dances with Wolves horror!!) Maggie runs into town though shame on whomever decided against giving and discovers that the director has hired his kid him just one or two disfiguring marks (to indicate brother (gasp!!) Clint Howard (double gasp) to play that he was evil) in favor of the whole kit and caboo- the sheriff. He won’t save the daughter ‘cause the dle. That person should get a large hairy mole in fair is in town. If only there was someone around some embarrassing place. No joke, Freddy Krueger who had been living with Native Americans for was more suave-looking by the time they were done years, knew their ways, and might have a vested with Schweig. interest in saving the girl! (Cue: organ music, excite- And what the golly-gosh-heck is it with this new ment.) Why that’s right, her dad!! The same dad batch of really good child actors we’ve been getting? who abandoned her, and not only is he the only one They are acting rings around many of their well-sea- who can save Lily, but he is in the next cell for being soned, older co-stars. Jenna Boyd’s character Dot the town drunk. (Cue the muffled trumpet: wha, fits this bill well, though some might call it reckless wha, whaaaaa..) Sigh. Then it just gets silly. endangerment to bring a daughter under 10 to a gun fight and tell her to shoot for the middle. However, K: I wouldn’t go so far as to say "silly" (the movie it is well known that families bond more tightly when doesn’t turn into "Dude, Where’s My Daughter"), but facing adversity together and each person has a part David has a point. Ron Howard has given us a won- to play. Remember: the family that slays together, derful body of films that any director would be proud stays together. to call his own. He sets a pretty high bar. So to say that "The Missing" doesn’t live up to Howard’s usual K: Astounding! This is the first time I can remem- level of storytelling doesn’t mean that this is a waste ber seeing terrific, professional-level performances of 138 perfectly good minutes and not worth the film from child actors in back-to-back movies (see our it was shot on. It just means that it’s not up to his last review of Keisha Castle-Hughes in "Whale usual level of craftsmanship. In his defense, Howard Rider", September issue). I feel lucky if I get treated and screenwriter Ken Kaufman avoid most of the to good child performances in back-to-back years. usual "cowboys ‘n indians" cliches. The Native Little Jenna does a great job by herself, and remem- American mysticism in the movie is never explained ber, her character is stuck between two strong adults, in a pedantic way, such as with a holy man saying, torn between loyalty to her mother and fascination "This is how we pray to the Great Spirit, to show the with her newfound grandfather. Oh yeah, and her White Eyes the error of his ways," as if it was neces- sister is kidnapped by Apaches. Not once does she sary to announce how you prayed to everyone in "mug" for the camera or go for laughs by being cute. earshot. It would be like me making the sign of the In my opinion, her performance outshines Evan cross, then turning to a non-Catholic and saying, Rachel Wood as the older sister, and is on par with "This is how I pray to God, the Father of our Savior Blanchett’s. Jesus Christ, that he may bless the Cubs with a continued on page 40 40 ROGERS PARK 2000 Popcorn Papers continued from page 39

So, in our final analysis, this film has its strengths Top 3 Popcorn Pyramid and weaknesses. Films made by Ron Howard that you won’t be We’re just not used to seeing such weaknesses searching the video store shelves for. in Howard’s films. If the genre and actors of "The 1. Gung Ho Missing" particularly appeal to you, it is worth dis- 2. Edtv count-matinee price. For anyone else, definitely 3. Far and Away (horrible, painfully horrible) worth renting when it hits the video stores. Your (Thank Ron for Backdraft, Apollo 13, A Beautiful take, Dave? Mind, Parenthood, Willow, etc.)

D: I wouldn’t even hit the matinee, I would wait for David D. Jones and Kevin A. Gutteron have been video for this one. Save your money for some of the writing together since they were old enough to play big epic flicks coming out. Howard just keeps tak- "Gauchos and Yaquis". Jones is relocating people ing a dive on these fall-winter releases. to newer and better homes at RE/MAX NorthCoast Realty. Gutteron lives in Hollywood and has changed his name to "Dances With Starlets".

1) Carol Ronen’s email address is: Correction [email protected]. 2) Alderman Patrick O’Connor’s 40th ward In the September RP2000, "New Addresses office is located at 5850 N. Lincoln Ave., for Government Representatives" (page 4) Chicago, IL 60659. Phone: 773.769-1140. contained certain errors. The correct infor- Downtown office: 312.744.6858 mation is provided below. RPCC apolo- gizes for any inconvenience. For a com- 3) Alderman Bernard Stone’s 50th ward plete listing of local, state and federal office is located at 6199 N. Lincoln Ave., elected officials serving Rogers Park, call Chicago, IL 60659. Phone: 773.764.5050. 773.338.7722 ext. 11 Downtown office: 312.744.6855.

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