HIGHLIGHTS THIS ISSUE Surviving Domestic Violence ...... 4 Partners for Rogers Park ...... 5 Chicago Cares ...... 5 Cultural Exchange ...... 7 Preschool at New Field ...... 7 Helping Youth Become Adults ...... 8 New Look for Metra Stop ...... 10 Dream of Home Ownership ...... 11 Howard Street Craftsman ...... 14 Volume 13, Issue 1 Spring 2008 Published by the Rogers Park Community Council (circulation: 30,000) Rogers Park Community Council and Partners Crack Down on Condo Fraud

By Erica Christoffer ike Skowronski doesn’t know where he will live if M the condo he rents undergoes foreclosure. He fears the only notice he will get—one day out of the blue—is from a bank, telling him to vacate the You are Cordially Invited to Attend premises “immediately.” Skowronski’s apartment complex was converted into condominiums about a year and a half ago and sold to multiple owners. He didn’t know about the deal until after Dare to Believe it happened. “It was illegal,” says Skowronski. “It was, ‘we’re going to make a bundle of money real fast.’” Under Celebrating DevCorp North’s Illinois law, any developer of a condo conversion is 15th Anniversary of Service required to notify renting tenants in advance. Furthermore, tenants are allowed first dibs on purchasing Now a legitimate, well-maintained condo property, this building at and Commitment to the the unit. 7633-39 N. Greenview was once used by “developer” Mike Rogers Park Community One day, Skowronski and his neighbors were all told Kakvand to defraud the community out of millions of dollars. to pay their rent to someone else. “They didn’t notify any - RPCC Housing Action Program director Mary Jane Haggerty— Thursday, May 1, 2008, 5:30pm one in the building,” he explains, adding that he believes who worked tirelessly to uncover Kakvand’s scheme—delivered his building fell victim to fraud. Aided by Rogers Park key testimony at his recent sentencing. Photo by Marolyn Taylor. St. Scholastic Academy Community Development Corporation (RPCDC), Rogers 7416 N. Ridge Park Community Council (RPCC) is currently investigat - What Haggerty had uncovered was a scheme led by ing local incidents of condo fraud. Skowronski’s building Mohammad “Mike” Taghie Kakvand, a crooked real estate Tickets $60 is one of about 15 suspected of fraud. investor who was buying apartment buildings in Rogers “If this were a jigsaw puzzle, I wouldn’t even have the Park (and on the city’s south side) with the intention of outer edge done,” comments Mary Jane Haggerty, direc - turning them into condominium buildings. The catch was ● Award presentation tor of RPCC’s Housing Action Program. “But I do have all that he made little to no building improvements, using the the pieces.” In 1999, Haggerty started getting calls from ● Live Music names of friends and acquaintances as “buyers” and sub - residents who suspected something was amiss in their sequently defrauding banks out of mortgage loans. He ● Silent Auction buildings. Three tenants of one building complained that founded Residential Realty Development in order to ● Taste of Rogers Park their power had been turned off. The following month, no appear legitimate, collecting the bank loans and letting one came to collect the rent. “I knew those tenants would the mortgages default into foreclosure. be evicted,” she explains. For more information Haggerty discovered that between 1998 and 1999, While conducting research at the office of the Cook Kakvand purchased and sold 153 units in 12 Rogers Park Call 773.508.5885 or County Recorder of Deeds, Haggerty found that almost buildings, residents of which either were evicted or volun - all of the units in question had been purchased by the tarily moved due to lack of upkeep. Squatters, drug deal - Email [email protected] same 15 individuals who apparently never occupied any ers and transients eventually moved in. of those units. continued on page 15 How Well Do You Rogers Park Welcomes Chinese Know Rogers Park? Civil Servants This rare variety of sparkle fish is most cer - tainly out of water. Where is his aqua- or the fourth consecutive year, Rogers Park program. In the process, they get a taste of urban life in branch home? (Hint: He may have STAGED F Community Council (RPCC) held a special presen - the heart of the American midwest. tation on local government infrastructure and the Students are sponsored by the Chinese central gov - his own disappearance.) culture of nonprofit service for a large group of civil ser - ernment, which pays their regular salaries during the year vants from the People’s Republic of China. abroad, along with tuition, room and board, and living These very distinguished men and women hold vari - expenses. “It is considered quite an honor to be selected ous (usually administrative) posts within city or provincial to come to the U.S. under this program,” notes Bill Markle, government departments. Already highly degreed, the RPCC board member and IIT professor. civil cervants call Chicago home for a full year, leaving behind families and friends to participate in an Illinois continued on page 12 Institute of Technology Masters of Public Administration

Send your correct response by May 15 to RP2000, c/o RPCC, 1530 W. Morse, Chicago IL 60626, or email your response to [email protected]. Be sure to include your name, address and phone number with your answer. The winner of a $25 gift certificate for Taste of Peru restaurant will be selected by lottery from the cor - rect responses. Good luck! Look for the answer in the Summer 2008 issue of Rogers Park 2000.

Rogers Park 2000’s Winter 2007-2008 issue winner is Francis Dee. Congratulations! Question: This red brick smokestack is found on the property of which Rogers Park institution of learn - Caleb Sjoblom (left), director of the Rogers Park Community Development Corporation, addresses an enthusiastic group of visiting ing? Answer: Roger C. Sullivan High School (6631 N. Chinese officials with the help of Bill Markle, a long-time board member of the Rogers Park Community Council and professor at Illinois Bosworth). Institute of Technology. 2 ROGERS PARK 2000

2 BEAD OR NOT 2 BEAD Beading Group Seeking New Members Meets Every 2nd Saturday of the month

Come any time from 10am to 4pm Rogers Park 2000 Committee: Cathie Bazzon, Lorraine Dostal, Kathleen Gruber, Marolyn Taylor and Elizabeth Vitell. Common Cup Writers: Jeremy Barewin, Glen Barwegen, Cathie Bazzon, Jennifer Caruso, Erica Christoffer, LaNisa Frederick, Peter Fugiel, Anuj Gangopadhyaya, Kevin Gutteron, Ora Harris, David Jones, Kristine Kappel, 1501 West Morse Paul Marcus, Karin McKie, Jaela Neal, Jill Porzio, Ahmad Refky, Peggy Rios, Seth Schwartz, Jennifer Sierecki, Jan van der Woerd, Pamela van Giessen, Ginger Williams and Huang Yuanfang.

Relax, make friends and explore your creativity Designer: Pon Angara Photos: Marolyn Taylor and Nicky Watts For more information . Call Ora at 312.388.8550 Executive Director: Elizabeth A. Vitell or email [email protected] To advertise, call 773.338.7722, x22, email [email protected] or send snail mail to RP2000, c/o RPCC, 1530 W. Morse Ave., Chicago, IL 60626. ROGERS PARK 2000 3 Emphasis on Good Health, Education Neighbors United and Fun at Senior Health Fair In New By Ginger Williams Possibilities espite bitterly cold weather on February 19, State Services Elizabeth Burnside and, of course, State Rep. D Representative Harry Osterman’s eighth annual Harry Osterman (14th District). Senior Health Fair at Broadway Armory Park (5917 The event highlighted the recent opening of the Seeks To Uncover N. Broadway) was judged a great success by all. Chicago Department of Senior Services Edgewater Approximately 60 service providers and 400 residents Senior Satellite Center at the Armory. “We are anxious to braved the temperatures to attend. show off the new Satellite Center and invite everyone to Guests were able to undergo health screenings of stop in and check us out,” noted Commissioner Gallagher. Hidden Treasures blood-sugar levels, balance, cholesterol and blood pres - The new center offers free wellness and fitness programs, sure, courtesy of Resurrection St. Francis Hospital, Weiss monthly health lectures and screenings, and the Golden By Glen Barwegen Hospital, Swedish Covenant Hospital and Advocate Diner Lunch Café, among other senior-centered services Illinois Masonic Medical Center. Gift bags were filled with and programming. Other highlights included a continen - such items as pill cases and back scratchers. tal breakfast, an exercise demonstration, a line dancing ssets of a community are often like hidden trea - Seniors received useful information about govern - class, live music, a box lunch and a raffle. All activities sures. Such treasures often go unnoticed unless ment and private programs from the Chicago Department were free and open to the public. A one searches with the right attitude and a belief that of Senior Services (formerly the Department on Aging), Many volunteers pitched in from the community, the treasures are out there. Rogers Park Community Council, Edgewater Community including students from Senn High School and Loyola Neighbors United in New Possibilities (NUNP) believes that one of the greatest assets of Rogers Park is its people. Unfortunately, many of the gifts and talents of our residents go unnoticed because they are out of the mainstream of the community. NUNP (1503 W. Morse) has discovered that this is the case with many senior res - idents. A number of seniors are relatively new residents of the neighborhood, settling here as a result of their search for affordable senior housing. Rogers Park contains approximately 10 “senior” apartment buildings (for people 55-plus, 60-plus and 62-plus). Many new residents are unfamiliar with our community and opportunities to get involved. Hoping to explore ways that mature adults can become more involved in community issues and events, NUNP has organized a series of Senior Conversations Luncheons for residents of senior buildings. The purpose of the luncheons is to help discover the gifts and talents of seniors and organize activities they would enjoy doing together. NUNP will also take information shared at the luncheons to match seniors with volunteer opportunities in Rogers Park. NUNP’s first luncheon on September 26 was attend - ed by 16 people and revealed talents in visual arts, writ - State Representative Harry Osterman (with Mayor Richard M. Daley to the right) addresses the crowd at this year’s Senior Health Fair, ing, public speaking, music and organizing. It also held February 19 at the Broadway Armory (5917 N. Broadway). This marks the 14th year that Rep. Osterman has hosted this popular revealed that older adults are passionate about a variety and worthwhile event. of social issues. More luncheons are planned for the future. To schedule a Senior Conversations Luncheon at Council, Social Security Administration, Arthritis University, as well as parishioners of St. Gertrude’s your building or to attend a future luncheon, contact Foundation, Chicago Police Department, American Church. All their hard work paid off as a number of guests Katherine Benson (NUNP Americorp volunteer coordina - Kidney Fund and Guild for the Blind, to name a few. commented on how much they enjoyed the morning. tor) at 773.338.0478. Guest speakers included U.S. Representative Jan For more information about this year’s fair or to make Schakowsky, Mayor Richard M. Daley, Department of suggestions for next year, contact Ginger Williams at Senior Services Commissioner Joyce Gallagher, Park 773.784.2002 or [email protected]. Glen Barwegen served as NUNP Americorp volunteer coordi - District Superintendent Tim Mitchell, Cook County nator for a year. He is currently pursuing a certificate in com - Commissioner Michael Quigley, Care for Real Director Registered nurse Ginger Williams serves as constituent advo - munity development and permanent employment in that field. Tom Robb, CJE SeniorLife Coordinator of Crime Victim cate for State Representative Harry Osterman (14th District). Board of Education Kicks Off Regional Housing Sessions

By Peter Fugiel

n February 25, the Chicago Public Schools (CPS) advised prospective buyers to O Teacher Housing Resource Center held the first of address their credit standing 11 regional “Buyers Market” education sessions at and to contact RPCDC to Roger C. Sullivan High School (6631 N. Bosworth). learn about the purchase The program—to be held in several other high schools— process and affordable hous - is intended to educate CPS teachers and employees ing options. about what it takes to own a home. The Board of Alberto Diaz of Nuvision Education recently adopted this regional education pro - Realty and Peter Fugiel of gram instead of centrally located homebuyer fairs used in Keller Williams Fox & the past. Workshops are organized by Diana Johnson, Associates explained the CPS director of teacher housing. meaning of a “buyer’s mar - Hosted by Jodi Larson of Citimortgage (a lending ket”—the extra supply of units subsidiary of Citibank), the Sullivan workshop was led by in the current market provides a panel of six real-estate experts who covered topics of buyers with more options. interest both to school employees and to the general pub - Diaz pointed out that the lic. Caleb Sjoblom, director of Rogers Park Community recent drop in interest rates Development Corporation (RPCDC), discussed home - has led to a decrease in owner education programs offered by the organization monthly mortgage payments. such as first-time homebuyer and condo training. “These lower rates are the The Chicago Public Schools Teacher Housing Resource Center now offers Buyers Market workshops Classes are frequently held at the Rogers Park branch of same as having prices drop,” like this one held February 25 at Roger C. Sullivan High School in Rogers Park. The Rogers Park the Chicago Public Library (6907 N. Clark). he remarked. Community Development Corporation (1530 W. Morse) provides CPS teachers and employees with Journalist and housing expert Sally Duros spoke Cornerstone Properties’ comprehensive first-time homebuyer training and access to financial assistance programs. about research she conducted on the Chicago housing Mary Jane Alagheband eral and local neighborhood housing opportunities in par - market. “Among the different housing markets in the described the developer’s latest condo conversion project ticular. country, the Chicago housing market is expected to (7734 N. Ashland), where units range in price from For more information about the CPS Teacher remain steady over the next year,” she noted, adding that $155,000 to $285,000. She also spoke about public Housing Resource Center, visit the combination of diverse neighborhoods and abundant improvements and housing developments planned for the www.teacherhousing.cps.k12.il.us. For more information new construction gives local buyers a variety of housing Howard Street corridor from Clark to Sheridan. Projects about RPCDC first-time homebuyer programs, call options. such as the remodeled Howard Street CTA station will 773.338.7732. Citimortgage loan officer Ralph Scott described the bring a new look to this vital community thoroughfare. current home mortgage market as a mix of tighter lending Future regional workshops will also feature a panel of Long-time area resident Peter Fugiel is a realtor with Keller standards and improving home mortgage rates. He experts focusing on the Chicago housing market in gen - Williams Fox & Associates. 4 ROGERS PARK 2000 Victim Advocacy & Support Program (VASP)

The Rogers Park Community Council’s Victim remains an under-reported crime, with hun - with the help of VASP court advocates, they Advocacy & Support Program (VASP) assists dreds of victims right here in Rogers Park were able to break free of the cycle of violence approximately 1,300 survivors of domestic vio - choosing to remain silent. Featured here are in their lives. The names of the victims have lence (DV) every year. Unfortunately, DV the stories of two very brave survivors and how, been changed to protect their identities. —Ed. When the System Emerging from the Nightmare of Fails to Protect Domestic Violence

By Jill Porzio By Jennifer Caruso

ictims of domestic violence (DV) often feel afraid, nthony” says that without assistance from At that point, Anthony truly understood the cycle of V alone and disconnected from those around them. “A VASP, he would never have been able to get domestic violence and the havoc it creates, no matter Oftentimes, they do not know whether they should through a horrific period in his life. After all, he how strong the individual. He also understood the try to seek help at all, or where to find that help. was brutally attacked by the one person he “myths” of domestic violence, and why it is so hard for But survivors do indeed have options. In 1986, the truly loved and trusted. people to just pack up and leave toxic situations. “Most of passage of the Illinois Domestic Violence Act marked the Born in the southern U.S., Anthony wasn’t ready for the time, people just can’t do that,” Anthony explains. start of a new era for DV victims. Recent Supreme Court the trouble that lurks in the big city. He certainly didn’t Complex emotions are involved, and until something life- rulings have further strengthened that law by effectively know about the effects of domestic violence until he changing occurs (such as a severe threat to physical mandating that law enforcement must act to protect vic - became a victim; neither did he know how to handle his safety), most victims will continue to stay in bad relation - tims. In other words, police officers must take steps to abuser. In his relationship, periods of happiness were fol - ships. To illustrate this point, Anthony describes a time protect victims. lowed by long periods of sadness and suffering. At first, when his abuser showered him with gifts of expensive Unfortunately, the law enforcement system some - Anthony gave the abuser many chances to change his clothing after periods of abuse. Anthony loved the gifts, times fails the victim. This was indeed the case with behavior and become a better person. However, his but he now knows that a pair of Armani jeans can in no “Theresa.” After enduring years of both physical and ver - patience ended when the offender broke Anthony’s hand way make things “right.” He also realizes that his abuser’s bal abuse from her boyfriend, Theresa decided to end the in a physical altercation. attempts to apologize with gifts is all part of the domestic relationship. The abuser began harassing her, phoning It was after that altercation that VASP made contact violence cycle. her and showing up at her workplace and home. He with Anthony, providing many hours of assistance to Since the attack on his life, Anthony has come to made frequent threats to kill her, even explaining to her assure him that he would be protected. In turn, Anthony learn that people are not always who they seem to be, how he planned to get away with it. One night, he came faced his problem head-on within the criminal justice sys - and that domestic violence is not something only women to her home, grabbed her by the neck and threw her tem, which tends to knock people down at their most vul - experience. The issue of domestic violence cuts across against the wall, punching her repeatedly with a closed nerable. Anthony wouldn’t give up, going to court many all economic, gender, race and social boundaries. fist. times—VASP court advocate by his side—in order to pro - Throughout his childhood, Anthony was aware that Theresa finally decided to call the police and file a tect himself and to maintain a sense of serenity. In court, he was different than most people around him. Today, report. Soon thereafter, she obtained a “No Contact by Anthony sometimes felt he was being too hard on the Anthony is ostracized by his family. In light of their lack of Any Means” Emergency Order of Protection. But only a offender, telling himself that perhaps things would change support, he is doubly grateful for the ongoing friendship of few days later, her now ex-boyfriend violated the order, if he didn’t proceed with the charges. However, those his VASP court advocate. harassing her with phone calls and threatening to kill her. feelings changed after Anthony’s abuser and several She immediately called the police, just as she was sup - accomplices assaulted him in public, causing him severe posed to do, explaining that her ex-boyfriend had violat - head injuries. From then on, Anthony vowed never to Jennifer Caruso serves as director of RPCC’s Victim Advocacy ed an Order of Protection. However, when the officers underestimate others and never to believe that one per - & Support Program. arrived at her home, she was told that there was really son can change another. nothing they could do. The police officers briefly looked over the Order of Protection and made out a police report, but no action was taken against her offender as it should have been. Theresa felt defeated and foolish. She sat at home feeling afraid and alone. The following day, however, VASP received her referral from the police department. (All DV incidents reported to the 20th and 24th District Chicago Police Departments are referred to VASP.) A court advocate contacted Theresa, listened to her, vali - dated her concerns and presented her with options for safer living. She then assisted Theresa through the court process, providing knowledge and moral support. The advocate answered all her questions, making sure she understood every detail of her Order of Protection, and explaining what steps to take if the Order was again vio - lated. Theresa was relieved that someone was finally on her side. Without programs like VASP, many victims would continue to live in fear, never receiving the help they need. One in every three women will experience DV in her lifetime. An estimated two to four million women are victims of physical assault by an intimate partner each year. Those in need of assistance may contact VASP at 773.338.7733 or the DV hotline at 877.863.6338.

Jill Porzio formerly served as court advocate for the Rogers Park Community Council’s Victim Advocacy & Support Program. Attn: Building Owners and Managers

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BVyoKlriustinnetKeaepprel Organization Benefits Seniors, Youth and Residents In Need

Chicago Cares volunteers make a meaning - Chicago Cares staff identifies the most urgent needs ities with senior residents, beautifying a park or green ful difference across the city and right here in communities like Rogers Park by meeting with schools, space, or cooking and serving a meal to the homeless. in Rogers Park. social service agencies and community leaders to dis - In Rogers Park, Chicago Cares volunteers lead cuss ways in which dedicated, trained volunteers can painting classes for seniors every other week at Nathalie Billed as the city’s premier volunteer organization, Chicago make the greatest impact. Chicago Cares staff creates, Salmon House (7320 N. Sheridan), an intergenerational Cares (300 W. Adams) and its league of volunteers have been manages and leads all volunteer programs, which might residence managed by nonprofit organization H.O.M.E. serving residents since 1991. Volunteer programming focuses include teaching children art and music in a school that (Housing Opportunities and Maintenance for the Elderly). on hunger, health and wellness, senior services, environmental no longer has a budget for those programs, leading activ - beautification and education. continued on page 6 Organizations and Residents Partner for Good of Rogers Park

By Jaela Neal

artners for Rogers Park (PRP) is a new all-volun - process within Rogers Park. This planning process will Current members of PRP include Housing P teer group of organizations and individuals within employ a stakeholder-based approach to community Opportunities for Women, Neighbors United in New the community who are working collaboratively development centered upon a belief that residents of a Possibilities, Lakeside Community Development towards a more diverse and equitable Rogers Park. Its community best know its own needs. In that vein, com - Corporation, Rogers Park Community Council, DevCorp mission is to promote positive community development for munity meetings around specific topics will include edu - North, Good News Community Kitchen, Good News current residents through open and inclusive partnerships cation, housing, safety, youth and healthcare in addition Partners, Trilogy Inc., St. Scholastica Monastery, Family that foster a healthy and just Rogers Park. to smaller focus groups. The purpose of these meetings Matters, Howard Area Community Center, Seabury PRP began as the North of Howard Leadership is to gather substantive feedback from residents about Foundation, Heartland International Health Center, Forum, an informal gathering whereby local non-profit what they would like the Rogers Park community to Wisdom Bridge Arts Project and individual community leaders came together to share information and discuss become. Once data is complete, information will be used members Kathleen Gruber and Laurene Huffman. topics such as service duplication while embarking upon to set priorities for PRP as well as to outline projects that The first annual meeting of PRP was held January 23 joint initiatives. However, this relaxed structure became can be worked on as a community. at Housing Opportunities for Women (1607 W. Howard). formalized at the behest of Seabury Family Foundation Work is already taking place within the housing com - Members voted in a steering committee, held an intro - which has funded many community development projects mittee of PRP which is focused on providing residents ductory information session, outlined a yearly agenda north of Howard. Boyd McDowell, president of the family with information that will help slow down displacement of and discussed strategies for reaching out to residents. foundation, is committed to the endeavor and its useful - low-income residents, increase awareness and access to Historically, Rogers Park has been service-laden with lit - ness to the community. “Over the six-year period that the housing services, and inform the larger community of tle input from local residents; PRP is working to alleviate Foundation concentrated its funding in the neighborhood, ways to retain and create affordable housing units. some of these obstacles to true community unity. organizing efforts revolved around issues of affordable Research shows that low-income families spend a large - Individuals who live in Rogers Park and agree to sup - housing, community safety, education and the Gale Park ly disproportionate amount of their income on housing port the PRP mission are eligible for membership. To join Recreation Center,” he notes. “While Seabury no longer which can then adversely affect their ability to better their PRP, contact Jaela Neal at 773.465.5770, x261 or concentrates its Chicago grantmaking only in the Howard overall financial situation. There is also much evidence to [email protected]. area, it is gratified that the community feels that it is suggest that African-American, White and Latino renters worthwhile to have this group evolve into a more formal have very different experiences within the rental housing Jaela Neal serves as community development coordinator with structure that will continue to try and make a difference in market. The housing committee has substantive plans to Partners for Rogers Park. With Master’s degrees in both Public the lives of area residents.” address these issues as well as a host of others within Policy and Urban Planning, her interest lies in helping to cre - One PRP initiative is a community-wide planning the coming year. ate affordable housing for underserved and at-risk populations. 6 ROGERS PARK 2000 Century Public House and Morse Theater to Revitalize Avenue

By Anuj Gangopadhyaya and Cathie Bazzon

onstruction of the Century Public House restaurant for the facility. Only a handful of structures nationwide are C and Morse Theater is in full swing at 1328 W. LEED-certified. Morse. As reported in the Rogers Park 2000 The construction is headed by architect Thom Summer 2007 issue, this venture represents a visionary Greene of Greene and Proppe Design (1209 W. Berwyn), dream of Andy McGhee, a Rogers Park resident for near - specializing in historic preservation. Exterior walls are It may not look like much now, but this construction site at 1328 W. ly 30 years. He and partner-son Devin are preserving the being preserved, with original terra-cotta being either Morse will soon be transformed into the Morse Theater and historic legacy of the building that was once home to restored or recreated. Century Public House, an exciting destination for good food and Cobbler’s Mall, a site dating back to 1912. Shop owners on Morse look forward to seeing more musical entertainment. Photo by Marolyn Taylor. This dining and music destination will combine a consumers in Rogers Park. The family-oriented Morse 100-seat restaurant and a 300-seat entertainment venue, Theater will close around 10:30pm, leaving the business with shows (three nights a week) highlighting jazz, of nightlife customers to nearby pubs such as Morseland parking spaces not only for the theater and restaurant, but gospel, folk and other genres of American music, but no (1218 W. Morse) and Red Line Tap (7006 N. Glenwood). for other local destinations such as Heartland Café (7000 “raucous rock shows.” The venue will target patrons 35 Plans for the theater were initially drawn up about a N. Glenwood). and older. year ago at a community meeting held at the United The father-and-son team hope to spark revitalization Renovations on Cobbler’s Mall will include energy- Church of Rogers Park (1545 W. Morse). Sponsorship by on the Morse strip and bring more excitement to Rogers efficient “green” technology including a planted green roof Alderman Joe Moore (49th ward) and the green light from Park. Their $3 million project should be completed this system, LED lighting (95 percent more efficient than stan - City Hall helped make the idea a reality. July. dard incandescent bulbs), extra installation and a ventila - The McGhees worked with Clark-Morse-Glenwood tion system that will use heat generated by the stage Special Service Area 24 and SSA manager Rene Anuj Gangopadhyaya is studying politics, mathematics and lights. The McGhees hope to obtain LEED (Leadership in Camargo at nonprofit community development organiza - chess at Loyola University. Cathie Bazzon serves as associate Energy and Environmental Design) “Silver” certification tion DevCorp North (1557 W. Howard) to configure 150 director of the Rogers Park Community Council. Chicago Cares About Rogers Park continued from page 5

Volunteers also serve a hot meal once a month at United allow larger groups (10 to 1,500 people) to make a mean - Registration for the annual Serve-a-thon opens this Church of Rogers Park (1545 W. Morse) and conduct ingful impact in just a few hours. Projects include school spring at chicagocares.org. Volunteers are encouraged to recreational activities with disabled children and young beautification, environmental work, cooking and serving form teams with friends, family and co-workers and raise adults through a partnership with nonprofit organization meals, or even reading and sharing stories with children funds to support Chicago Cares volunteer programs. KEEN, which operates a project at the High Ridge YMCA or seniors. Social service agencies and schools interested in (2424 W. Touhy). Chicago Cares also is known for two annual days of ser - partnering with Chicago Cares for ongoing or one-time Programs have a direct impact on participants and vice: the Serve-a-thon in June and the Celebration of Service volunteer programs may review program requirements the greater community. “I’ve seen residents at Nathalie held in January in honor of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and submit an application at chicagocares.org. Salmon House discover artistic talents they would never Residents are invited to join Chicago Cares on June Individuals and families who wish to volunteer with have known they had,” notes volunteer Shirin Bridges. 14 for the 15th Annual Serve-a-thon. On this remarkable monthly volunteer projects may call 312.780.0800 or visit “One resident told me he has not painted for many years day, thousands of volunteers join forces to transform chicagocares.org. All volunteers are required to complete because he couldn’t afford the materials. He gave me a schools across Chicago. Volunteers brighten classrooms a brief on-line orientation before volunteering. Christmas card that read ‘thank you for putting painting with fresh coats of paint, give new life to hallways with back into my heart.’” educational murals, organize school libraries to make In addition to weekly, bi-weekly and monthly volun - them more widely accessible, landscape grounds to make Kristine Kappel serves as manager of marketing and communi - teer programs, Chicago Cares creates custom initiatives them more inviting, and design playground line games ty involvement for Chicago Cares. for area corporations and youth groups. These projects (such as hopscotch) to encourage physical activity. ROGERS PARK 2000 7 “Preschool For All Program” Shines at New Field

By Peggy Rios

ew Field School (1707 W. Morse) currently lum aligned to state standards, and strong parent N offers an innovative pre-school program. and community involvement. “Professional devel - Preschool For All—a statewide initiative of opment of our teachers is sustained and continu - Governor Rod Blagojevich—is similar to Head ous, building teacher capacity in order to provide Start in that it employs the highest quality stan - high-quality instruction for all our students,” she dards for teachers and early childhood education. explains. However, unlike Head Start, families need not meet A number of events are planned for the school income requirements to enroll. The only guidelines this spring. Every Thursday from April 26 to May are that children must be either 3 or 4 years of age 29 (1:30 to 2:30pm), families are invited to attend by September 1 and be fully potty-trained. Families English/Spanish language exchange playgroup at are not required to live within the school’s attendance boundaries, though families within those boundaries are given preference. At New Field, the program runs in half-day seg - ments (mornings and afternoons), five days a week. Although registration is ongoing, resi - dents are encouraged to apply early. Each pre-school classroom is led by a full- time, certified educator and a full-time teacher’s aide with a maximum of 17 students per room. Students receive personalized attention and individualized instruction. This writer’s daugh - ter, for example, attends a class featuring gym, art and time with a reading specialist once a week. The classroom model is play based but offers a challenging curriculum. Reem Carlin—mother of another Young participants of the Preschool For all program at New Field preschooler—had been planning to sell her School enjoy fun and educational activities in a nurturing, positive home when she discovered New Field School. environment. The Carlin family decided to take their home off the market because they want their daughter to the school playground. (Registration is limited.) be able to stay in the school. Mother Stephanie On May 2 at 9:30am, the school will host Stories Ward recently toured the school. “The New Field and Crafts, with tours given afterwards upon School event (tour) was wonderful,” she comments. request. And on May 16 at 9am, prospective New “It's a beautiful school, and the teachers and Field parents, caretakers and families are invited to administrators I met and/or observed seem to real - attend a school tour and principal coffee. ly enjoy their work. I feel like having this great pub - Individuals interested in attending one of these lic school in our neighborhood is a wonderful, events or in scheduling a tour may call Sylvia unexpected present.” Sarros at 773.534.2760 or email Peggy Rios at New Field is undergoing exciting changes on [email protected]. top of the preschool program. Under the leader - ship of principal Blanca Trevino, the school has Peggy Rios has been a resident of Rogers Park for over seen an upward trend in Illinois State Achievement 10 years. She is a former CPS teacher who currently testing scores over the last three years. In 2005, stays at home with her two young children. She also 37 percent of students received passing scores. leads a group called Friends of New Field whose goal is That figure increased to 55 percent in 2006 and 64 to support the school and help bring in new families. To percent in 2007. learn more about Friends of New Field, visit friend - Trevino attributes the improvement to a high snewfield.org degree of teacher collaboration, a focused curricu - Cultural Exchange Opportunities Abound for Local Residents and Employers

By Ahmad Refky

ogers Park is known throughout Chicago as The importance of cultural exchange is R one of its most culturally diverse neighbor - extremely relevant in a time of war, when individu - hoods. Those residents who are proud of als need to help bring the world closer together. the hodgepodge of cultural backgrounds, The Rogers Park community can play a huge role heritage and traditions represented in our commu - in this process through hosting foreign exchange nity can in fact play an important role in further pro - students in their homes, exposing them to Chicago moting diversity. culture and promoting cultural understanding and Since 1985, the Center for Cultural diversity. Resident volunteers are also needed to Interchange (CCI) has been dedicated to promot - work as CCI Area Representatives, helping to ing cultural understanding, academic development, locate host families for exchange students arriving environmental consciousness and world peace. this August. The experiential learning involved in student CCI also offers cultural benefits to local busi - exchange helps people appreciate other ways of nesses through its Work & Travel program, which life and consequently improves their own. Over the allows international university students to work in years, CCI (712 N. Wells) has seen the lives of the U.S. on a special visa during school breaks. thousands of students transformed and enriched The program enables local employers to expose as a result of experiences abroad. their businesses to an international perspective Nonprofit CCI organizes academic-year, while offering students from abroad an inside expe - short-term homestay, internship, employment, lan - rience on American working life. Participation in guage study, environmental and volunteer pro - Work & Travel benefits employers while promoting grams in the U.S. and more than 30 other coun - cultural understanding. tries. CCI is recognized by the U.S. Department of For more information about CCI programs, call State as an official exchange visitor program. 800.634.4771 or email [email protected]. Students visiting here from abroad find the experience life-changing and enriching as they Originally from Cairo, Egypt, Ahmad Refky serves as learn about American culture while teaching their academic year program training manager and Illinois host families, friends and classmates about their state director at the Center for Cultural Interchange. own. Different student cultures and views of the A proud resident of Rogers Park, Refky first became world help diversify schools and promote cultural interested in cultural exchange at age 16, when he came awareness and understanding. to Chicago as a foreign-exchange student. 8 ROGERS PARK 2000 Up Close and Personal with RPCC Youth Programs Past, Present and Future

ogers Park Community Council’s youth program is cles for the RP2000 and developing workshops on vari - R expanding to create more opportunities for youth to ous topics. They also work one-on-one with mentors and become self sustaining adults. There are currently staff for help dealing with adolescent issues. A majority two main components of the youth program: Youth of the youth attend Sullivan High School, where they can Intervention Program (YIP) and the more recently devel - easily seek support and guidance from staff at Club 137. oped Youth Career Development Center (YCDC). THEATRE FOR A CHANGE. Presented in associa - YIP’s mission is to create educational, recreational tion with After School Matters, this drama program attract - and social growth opportunities for youth, primarily stu - ed youth (ages 14-18) with the dents of Roger C. Sullivan High School (6631 N. desire to learn more about acting, One hundred percent Bosworth), Rogers Park’s only public high school. With directing and writing. Under the of summer workers more than 1,200 students calling it their academic home, guidance of local professional enrolled in the Youth the success of Sullivan is an integral part of Rogers actors, youth developed focus, Career Development Park’s overall well-being. commitment and respect to the Center received job YIP works with students, teachers and parents to craft, ultimately developing “In My and financial literacy training. reach out to those at risk of dropping out. Intake and goal Shoes,” a collection of stage Rose Belizaire (left) and Yvonne Jenkins head downtown via the planning services are provided to each student. vignettes assembled from commu - “el” train. Throughout the school year, participants of RPCC Approximately 83 percent of YIP youth come from low- nity interviews. youth programs enjoy trips to museums, amusement parks, univer - income families; 52 percent live in female-headed house - YOUTH CAREER DEVELOPMENT CENTER sities and other destinations. holds. (YCDC). Established in 2007, this valuable city-funded In January of 2006, Polk Bros. Foundation provided initiative aims to satisfy the city’s youth employment gap. rently seeks to partner with local businesses and organi - funding to support the hiring of a full-time youth advocate. Youth received extensive job-readiness training, job-hunt - zations to ensure the program’s success (see separate That April, YIP began placing more youth in community- ing assistance and post-placement support. YCDC’s first story). service projects thanks to a Venture Grant from United goal is to provide an in-depth, hands-on approach to Long-term goals for RPCC youth programs include Way of Metropolitan Chicago. YIP was also able to recruit learning. Many of the lessons involve role playing, mock building stronger relationships with local employers. If and supervise volunteers from Northwestern University interviews and mental math equations. Last summer, youth see that the community is taking a stake in their and interns from Loyola University to work with young Region 1 YCDC (conducted with partner agency Albany well-being, they will be more likely to achieve long-term people. Park Community Center) was able to train 250 students success. In this most recent fiscal year, YIP assisted 120 youth and place 100. During this time, Region 1 YCDC also through after-school programs and intervention services. held satellite trainings with such organizations as Tasheena is a senior at Sullivan High School with goals of American Indian Center, Ethiopian Community attending Columbia College to pursue modern dance. Aside Constructive After-School Options Association of Chicago, Hamdard Health Center and from the fact that she “loves being on TV,” working on CAN TV Club 137—the Sullivan after-school program—was ZAM’s Hope Community Center has helped her cope with the loss of her cousin who was killed named by the students after the original room number YCDC’s second goal is to help place students in in a act of senseless violence. “I want to do this (CAN TV) to where most YIP activities were held. Youth receive daily entry-level jobs with the help of youth employment spe - help out other youth because I’ve personally lost someone services in homework assistance, recreational programs, cialists who provide youth with job leads based on out - because of gang fighting,” she explains. Discussing violence short-term intervention counseling and youth leadership reach and relationships. Most youth are placed in part- in an open manner is beneficial, adds Tasheena, because it development activities. time jobs and/or internships that suit their interests and makes youth “think about their actions” while allowing them to Club 137 activities help improve study skills, create a goals. This summer, 37 YCDC-trained youth were placed realize that they have other options, and are not alone. support system for students and build the self-esteem in jobs with the Chicago Transit Authority for a seasonal necessary to succeed in school. As freshmen and sopho - summer position; some were invited to work fulltime. Recently an older guy approached me to his vehicle. That’s mores are at greatest risk of dropping out, these students Other YCDC employers include Diamond Management when I used the knowledge my mother gave me and got this per - receive special attention and Technology Consultants, Village North Theatre and vert back! As he stopped and waited for me to walk up I took all Club 137 is an after school during their transition into After-School Matters. the information I could about his vehicle and saved it in my phone. program supporting youth high school, while juniors When I got closer to his car he told me to come here. I said NO development. More than 95 and seniors are prepared What’s Next? and began to run as fast as I could. I was so scared I almost teens participated in after to successfully transition This summer’s youth are looking forward to the sec - began to cry but I stayed strong. When I got to the corner of school education, recreation out of high school and pur - ond installation of Camp IMPACT. Hoping to enroll 30 Ashland he turned and drove off. and social growth activities. sue higher education. “tweens” during this eight-week internship, RPCC cur - After that I went across the street to RRPCC and talked to an Homework assistance is employee about this devastating situation, and came to find the available daily. Volunteer tutors from Northwestern and same guy who tried to get me to come with him did the same to Loyola not only assist students with subjects such as cal - her. We immediately called the police and when they came I gave culus and Spanish, but act as mentors who provide them the description of this guy and his license plate and they insight into a world beyond high school. knew who he was. A detective investigated this crime. I hope they put this man in jail so he won’t bother anyone else. Community Service These situations are very devastating to young women. The Chicago Public Schools system requires that Some safety tips you can use to keep safe are 1) Always be aware, each student complete 40 hours of community service in 2) Don’t give eye contact, 3) Don’t talk to anyone you don’t know order to graduate. YIP partners with a number of commu - 4) If anyone tries to get you to do something you don’t want to do nity initiatives to help youth fulfill this requirement. say NO and collect as much information as you can and RUN! GoodNews Community Kitchen (7649 N. Paulina) When I was a little girl, my mother used to tell me (and still serves hot nutritious meals to youth, adults and seniors does) to always watch my surroundings and to be aware. Without daily. Once a month, Club 137 participants help serve my mother I don’t think I would have made it to the point I am Participants of RPCC’s Club 137 after-school program receive meals and get to know their neighbors. Discussions are now. held before and after trips to help youth and adults guidance from adult mentors, perform community-service projects, learn valuable life skills and—as evidenced here—make lasting express their thoughts on the causes of and possible —Anastasia Gardner, Camp IMPACT graduate solutions to poverty and homelessness. friendships. Last June, seven Club 137 members and three RPCC staff members travelled to New Orleans to partici - pate in rebuilding efforts. Youth raised money via fundraisers, candy sales and direct solicitation to help pay Rogers Park Celebrates Black for expenses. For many, this marked the first trip outside Chicagoland and first-time exposure to another culture and way of life. Youth brought back a deeper appreciation History Month for life and a determination to change the world for the better. ore than 125 people congregated at the Loyola Park Field House (1230 W. Additional Initiatives M Greenleaf) February 24 for the 10th Annual Afrikan Heritage Black History Month Potluck Extravaganza. Organized largely by long-time Rogers Park CAN TV (Chicago Access Network Television) . In asso - ciation with the Illinois Center for Violence Prevention, resident and activist Ora Harris, the event was supported by a number of business - youth produced a monthly CAN TV show on the subject es, organizations and individuals. Harris joins fellow members of the Loyola Park of community violence. Youth chose the specific topic for Advisory Council (Katy Hogan, Mary Bao, Anita Sims and Sandra Glispie) in thank - each show, conducted research and wrote the script. ing these sponsors and supporters for helping to make the event a success: Youth were also trained to operate camera equipment Caribbean-American Baking Co. Neighbors United In New Possibilities and work behind the scenes, switching duties every month A total of 60 youth partici - Mimi Fitzpatrick Sandra Peterson to get a feel for all aspects of pated in summer jobs Mary Hopkins (Loyola Park supervisor) Alexis Pitts Musician, poet and teacher TV work. funded by After School Michael Glasser Marcus Pitts Kelan Phil Cohran was hon - Matters, the Rogers Park CAMP IMPACT. This is a Jim Ginderske Pierre Pitts ored for his many contributions Builders Group and a num - at the 10th Annual Afrikan summer internship transition - Harold’s Chicken Popeye’s Chicken al program geared for youth ber of local businesses. Heritage Black History Month JB Alberto’s Rogers Park Builders Group who may be too young to Potluck Extravaganza. More land a job, but who have the will and desire to work and Lakeside Café Bill “Long Claw Bear” Smith than 125 people attended the are preparing for their first year of high school. Youth Joe Moore (Alderman, 49th Ward) Larry Suffredin (Cook County Commissioner) February 24 event held at the receive a weekly stipend thanks to the generosity of local Morse Fresh Market Anna Vick Loyola Park field house (1230 businesses, fundraisers and private donors. Participants Neville Muir W. Greenelaf). Photo by Nicky are responsible for community beautification, writing arti - Watts. ROGERS PARK 2000 9 Summer Opportunity Returns for Rogers Park “Tweens” By Erica Christoffer

ast summer, 25 young teens were paid to learn and Last summer, participants learned how to protect the things. “It’s a great place to make new friends,” says Polk. L have fun at Camp IMPACT, part of Rogers Park environment and helped beautify Loyola Park (1230 W. The eight-week program is almost entirely funded Community Council’s Youth Intervention Program Greenleaf) by picking up trash along the beach. They through private donations from local businesses, banks (YIP). The initiative was so successful that coordinators also saw their names in print when they wrote stories and individuals. YIP is currently seeking donations for are bringing it back this year—even bigger and better. about the neighborhood for the RP 2000 (see elsewhere Camp IMPACT this summer. Those interested in donating “Camp IMPACT is an opportunity for tweens to in this issue and in the Winter 2007-2008 issue). may contact Maile Horita at 773.338.7722, x19 or at receive pre-high school transitional support,” says assis - Camp IMPACT can be compared to an internship, [email protected]. Parents or teens interested in tant director of youth programs LaNisa Frederick. Frederick explains, in that the teens are exposed to a vari - taking part in Camp IMPACT may stop by RPCC (1530 W. Youth ages 13 to 15 making the transition from junior ety of growth opportunities while being paid a weekly Morse) to pick up an application. high to high school are taught skills that will help them stipend of $20. Parents invest a $30 participation fee succeed in and out of the classroom. In addition to field before Camp Impact begins in June to help supplement Erica Christoffer is a freelance writer and graduate student at trips to popular Chicago cultural landmarks and recre - food costs. “Our participants are too old for regular camp Columbia College working towards a master's degree in public ational activities, the participants are given job training and too young to get a job,” Frederick adds. Camp IMPACT affairs journalism. She is originally from Minneapolis, and community service opportunities. “Camp Impact is can be a real confidence booster for kids entering high Minnesota and currently resides in Rogers Park. no summer school,” says YIP director Norman Polk. school by helping them meet new people and try new Rogers Park Youth Hit the Slopes for Snowboarding Adventure

In January, 10 youth from RPCC youth programs took erwise might not have such an opportunity. Over 20 youth Giovanni Nolasco (both of Jose De Diego School); Tomi Mick part in a very unique opportunity sponsored by the pre - applied, with the final ten chosen for their grades, personal rec - (home schooled) and Leslie Castillo (Hawthorne Academy). miere snowboarding equipment manufacturer Burton ommendations and involvement in the community. Chaperoned While most of the youth were born and raised in Chicago, CLorporation. The Burton “Chill” program teaches youth from by local Rogers Park resident Fernando Vernom, the youth had John Belizaire is a native of Haiti. Even though he is still get - across the country how to snowboard in this six-week program. never been skiing or snowboarding before! The group includ - ting accustomed to cold, snowy winters, he jumped at the Burton provides gear, instruction and transportation to and ed Chevon Brown, Jessica Mendez, John Belizaire, Kevin opportunity to participate in the Chill program. He details his from the site. Awarded the grant in late 2007, RPCC youth staff Hunter and Latrice Lawal (all of Sullivan High School); experience below. held interviews and selected teens for this experience who oth - Natalie Nolasco (Lincoln Park High School); Daniel Tello and —LaNisa Frederick, RPCC youth programs assistant director

Call Me a Snowboarder I joined the school's soccer team the very same year I arrived. It was an unforgettable experience; my team - My name is John Belizaire and I’m a 19 year old mates were helpful in the field and with the language. We senior at Sullivan High School. I moved to the United even won the indoor soccer tournament of 2006. I am States with my family three years ago at the age of 16. very athletic; I play several sports such as basketball, That transition in my life has been a big experience for football and volleyball and I also like to swim. I am look - me; I had to fit in a new environment and a new culture. ing forward to use my athletic skills to help with my col - lege's expenses. I like living in Rogers Park, it is such a lovely place. There is always something to do. It is inhabited by a group of friendly and generous people. I was amazed to see how people from different places in the world are try - Young participants of the “Theatre for a Change” summer drama ing to get along while in some other countries people are program are shown here at RPCC’s annual Spirit of Rogers Park fighting within their own race. What I dislike about Rogers Awards, where they treated guests to a special performance. Park is that a group of people accompanied by some Guided by RPCC’s own LaNisa Frederick—herself an accom - property and businesses owners are supporting urban plished actor-director— the talented crew worked tirelessly to cre - gentrification; in order words they are chasing people who ate “In My Shoes,” a brilliant, gutsy performance piece about life live in low-rent buildings by renovating and increasing the in all its bittersweetness. value of property so that wealthy folks can move in. By doing that, Rogers Park is losing its value because it will TVs on it so we were able to watch movies during the long be losing what makes it different from other communi - drive. Upon reaching our destination in Lisle.), we were ties—its diversity. called out by group to get fitted with our gear and board; Adome and Rose graduated from Sullivan High School last year. Rogers Park offers a lot of opportunities to youth then we headed to the hill. Nobody was more excited They both credit RPCC youth programs for helping them to succeed growing up in the area. This year through RPCC, I had than me. It was my first time snowboarding, and it had academically and to build self-esteem. Rose was one of seven teens the opportunity to learn how to snowboard with the Chill always been a dream of mine since I come from a tropi - to travel to New Orleans and take part in rebuilding efforts there. program. Everything was provided for us, even bus trans - cal country where it's about 90 degrees every day. We portation and head-to-toe gear. “Rogers Parkers” were had some terrific teachers; they always made sure that Rogers Park is the perfect place for newcomers. I didn't not the only people participating in the program, other we were safe and they were really patient with us. I fell a feel left out because I was not alone; there is a huge people from other schools and communities joined us. lot, my whole body was sore but I would definitely sign up diversity of people living in Rogers Park trying to adapt. I During the trip, we met other people and ultimately made for it next year because it is really fun and it's not some - was put in an ESL Class (English as a Second Language) some friends. Every Tuesday our group met in front of thing that everybody has a chance to do. and in no time I was able to communicate with my peers. Sullivan High School and was picked up by this gigantic To learn more about Chill, check out cool bus. The coolest thing about the bus was that it had www.burton.com/Chill/Default.aspx. Heartland International Health Center Now Open

n February 11, more than 100 community members, health care providers, O human rights workers and advocates attended a ribbon-cutting ceremony to cel - ebrate the grand opening of the new Heartland Health Center-Rogers Park. As originally reported in the Fall 2007 Rogers Park 2000, the center is operated by Heartland International Health Center (HIHC), an affiliate of Heartland Alliance for Human Needs & Human Rights. The ceremony was highlighted by a keynote address from Congresswoman Jan Schakowsky, who emphasized the need for universal health coverage and applauded the community’s efforts to raise awareness on this subject. Alderman Joe Moore (49th Ward) and Cook County Commissioner Larry Suffredin commented on the crucial ser - vices that the center will bring to residents, as did Jim Ginderske of Neighbors for a Healthy Rogers Park. “We’re thrilled to be in Rogers Park and to be providing affordable, quality health care to young and old,” said Bechara Choucair, executive director of the health center. “Our staff is committed to treating all patients with respect, dignity and culturally-appro - priate care.” Heartland Health Center (2200 W. Touhy) will serve as a “medical home” for men, women and children, filling gaps in their local health care options by offering primary It’s a community effort! Public officials, residents, community activists and members of Heartland care, mental health care and prenatal care. The health center expects to treat 3,300 Alliance together cut the ribbon at a February 11 celebration for the new Heartland Health Center- patients in its first year, with capacity to see up to 4,300 patients in coming years. Rogers Park. The center (2200 W. Touhy) specializes in meeting healthcare needs of underinsured and uninsured residents. To learn more or make an appointment, call 773.751.1875. 10 ROGERS PARK 2000 SPRING ON STAGE IN ROGERS PARK

By Karin McKie

Bohemian Theatre Ensemble at Heartland Studio by his own early-career experience churning out jokes for Theater Sid Caesar’s “Your Show of Shows,” where he worked 7016 N. Glenwood alongside Mel Brooks, Carl Reiner and Woody Allen. The AA773.791.2rr393 ttssBBeeaatt play introduces a room full of oddball writers, many based www.bohotheatre.com upon actual personalities including Simon himself. This Boho concludes its fourth season with M. Butterfly play chronicles the writing room’s outrageous antics and (based on a true story), which runs to April 19. increasing stress levels under the pressures of rising The production opens in a cramped prison cell, where McCarthyism and television executives resistant to diplomat Rene Gallimard is being held captive by the sophisticated humor. Tickets $15 to $25. French government—and by his own illusions. He recalls Babes With Blades will use Raven’s West Theatre for the beautiful Chinese diva named Song who touched him Los Desaparecidos (The Vanished), a world premiere with a love as vivid and elusive as a butterfly. How could running April 6 to May 11. This play explores the impact he have known then that she was actually a spy for of family ties and unexpected love in the lives of two sis - the Chinese government, arraying herself as the meek, ters. The production features clandestine trysts, plots submissive Asian female of his fantasies? In the end, and counterplots, blackmail—and lots of swordplay! there remains only one truth: whether or not Gallimard's Tickets are $20. Call 773.880.0016 or visit passion was a flight of fancy, it sparked the most vigorous www.BabesWithBlades.org emotions of his life. Tickets $18 to $20. Side Project Theatre Company Lifeline Theatre 1439 W. Jarvis 6912 N. Glenwood 773.973.2150 773.761.4477 Actor James Elly stars as famed swordsman Don Diego (aka www.thesideproject.net www.lifelinetheatre.com “Zorro”) in Lifeline Theatre’s swashbuckling production of “The Ensemble member Jesse Weaver (now residing in Lifeline Theatre—an anchor of the Glenwood Avenue Mark of Zorro,” running May 16 to June 22. Ireland) penned current offering On My Parents' One Arts District—continues its 25th anniversary celebration Hundredth Wedding Anniversary , which runs on Side with outstanding adult and family offerings. Featured on Project’s intimate stage until May 11. stage from May 16 to June 22 is Lifeline ensemble mem - they find him cavorting in the bathtub of their new home. This twisted memory play features a couple re-enacting ber Katie McLean’s world premiere adaptation of The Part of Lifeline’s KidSeries. Tickets $10. their courtship and marriage in the turn-of-the-century Mark of Zorro , which relates the story of the famed Paris dance world, in a yearly ritual of truth, denial and swordsman as he fights against corruption and attempts Raven Theatre revelation. Tickets $10 to $20. to save the young daughter of a noble family from ruin. 6157 N. Clark 773.338.2177 Tickets $25 (or $15 during preview week May 2 to 11). Karin McKie is an actor and writer. Originally from the www.raventheatre.com He was so popular the first time around that Lyle, Washington, D.C. area, she moved to Chicago in 1993, and has Raven Theatre is also closing out its quarter-century Lyle, Crocodile is back to delight youngsters in this spe - lived in Rogers Park since 2003. For more information, visit season with Laughter on the 23rd Floor , running April cial run June 13 to July 13. This caviar-eating croc quick - www.treefalls.com. Go see a play now! ly becomes a treasured member of the Primm family after 29 to June 28. Neil Simon’s classic comedy was inspired Rogers Park Garden Group and Neighbors RPGG Grant Available for Beautification Projects Launch Metra Community Garden Project Rogers Park Garden Group has launched “Adopt the Public Way,” a program that provides grants of up to $200 for beautification projects taking place in public By Pamela van Giessen spaces such as parkways, frontages and building ogers Park Garden Group (RPGG) has adopted exteriors. Applications are due by May 15, with grants the Metra train stop at Greenleaf and Ravenswood awarded at a May 27 meeting to be held in the green - R as its major community gardening project for this house at Stephen F. Gale Community Academy (1631 season. Spearheaded by Brian White of Lakeside W. Jonquil). The meeting will feature a hands-on Community Development Corporation (1806 W. demonstration of container gardening. Greenleaf), the effort entails cleaning, preparing, design - For a grant application or more information, ing, planting and maintaining a garden at the large site. email [email protected]. An ever-growing group of Greenleaf-area neighbors and other Rogers Parkers are becoming involved. The project For more information about RPGG, visit is off to a great start but more volunteers are needed to Thanks to the efforts and dedication of Rogers Park Garden www.rpgardengroup.org. see the garden through to completion. RPGG was able to Group, Lakeside Community Development Corporation and local donate $1,000 toward the project, thanks to funds raised neighbors, the Greenleaf-Ravenswood Metra stop is set to receive last thing that Metra users see. This garden will improve at last September’s Garden of Treasures sale held at a major face lift. Funds are still needed, however, to bring the pro - the scenery for locals, commuters and visitors alike. A Jarvis Square. However, the Metra Garden is a large ject to fruition. garden says that people care about the land, about the space and to do it justice, more donations are needed. community and about one another. As Lady Bird Johnson The project was launched with a March 2 meeting at ning and design committee met several times to scope once said, “Where flowers bloom, so does hope.” Greenleaf Art Center (1806 W. Greenleaf). More than 25 out the project, setting as its objectives beautification of Planting is scheduled to begin in May. Progress on people came together to consider such ideas as native the area and community education about the techniques the garden, and meeting and activity dates are available plantings, arts and bioswales (landscape elements and plant materials used. at www.metragarden.wordpress.com. designed to filter pollution from runoff water). Attendees The hardworking and motivated Metra Garden broke into smaller teams who worked through the month Planners (soon to be Metra Garden Planters!) have Pamela van Giessen is co-founder of RPGG. of March to design and schedule the project, which will devoted much time to the project, which will benefit the A 16-year resident of Rogers Park, she serves as an editorial feature many native plant varieties. A 10-member plan - larger community. Often, the Metra stop is the first and director for international publisher John Wiley & Sons. ROGERS PARK 2000 11 The Popcorn Papers

By Kevin Gutteron & David D. Jones • “Brothers Separated by Gene Slicing” Horton Hears a Who

David: Welcome to the first Sr. Seuss movie that wasn't were unfounded. Carrey's portrayal of Horton is devoid of released at Christmastime. Horton is the retelling of that unnecessary over-the-top wackiness, except when it's old classic tale of an elephant and his speck. called for, and is in fact quite touching at times. Some of the credit for keeping the tone even would have to be given Kevin: Before the Grinch came to town, there was Horton to the film's directors, Jimmy Hayward and Steve Martino. (Jim Carrey), a jungle elephant who teaches the younger Hayward, especially, has the experience, having worked in animals about the world around them. the animation department for both “Toy Story” movies, “A While they obviously adore him, he is frowned upon by the Bug's Life,” “Monsters, Inc.” and “Finding Nemo.” Not a bad area's matriarch, Kangaroo (Carol Burnett), who thinks his track record. lessons are too frivolous. One day, Horton hears a voice coming from a minus - D: This cast screamed for everyone to go over the top K: Well, I wouldn't put it up for the Academy Award next cule speck lodged on a poppy. The speck is actually the with their characterizations but the subdued performances year, but this film will invariably become another holiday microscopic community of Whoville, and it is at the mercy give much greater depth to the story as opposed to their standby that all children of future generations will view of the elements. Once Horton is able to communicate with ironic relationships, which is often the strength of any Dr. approximately 300 times before their sixth birthdays. So the Mayor of Whoville (Steve Carell), he promises to take Seuss project. They also did a brilliant job managing the go see it now to avoid the rush. them someplace safe, a small niche at the top of a distant tone of the story. Bear with me on this. Horton has been mountain. While the mayor tries to convince Whoville of used by many people as an ideal for political and philo - Horton’s presence, Horton tries to convince the jungle sophical arguments. (No, I swear I am not kidding, people The Popcorn Pyramid of creatures of Whoville's invisible existence. Both are have heatedly, passionately and occasionally violent - ridiculed and even threatened by the closed-minded, and ly argued that Horton was the pinnacle ideal to whatever Top 5 Carol Burnett Movies are forced to depend on themselves—and sometimes the heck their argument was about.) So in this day of each other—to save Whoville. extreme punditry, where any movie that has even a slight - (Where she doesn't play a kangaroo) *INPO ly moral lending is picked up by group A or group B and The Front Page D: “Horton Hears a Who” is yet another revamping of a waved around in peoples’ faces, Horton does a brilliant job heart-warming favorite by Dr. Seuss. (See also of sticking to Dr. Seuss' original intent and masterfully Once Upon a Mattress Theodore Seuss Gissel, Theo LeSieg and Rosetta Stone.) deflecting any chance of it being waved around as a polit - Annie He has been entertaining the last several generations with ical point by anyone. Well done, chaps. Pete 'n' Tillie his eerily physics-defying drawings and I, like many of you, grew up with his books and may have read or given them K: You are so high. *In No Particular Order, duh. to others as well. So if the millions of people who grew up loving his stories are any indication, Hollywood has a pret - D: Sadly no, but the film was still brilliant at being apolti - ty safe bet with any project by the venerable Mr. Gissel. cal. The Popcorn Prognosticator Hollywood has had a long-term love affair with Dr. Seuss' stories. Horton was introduced to film goers in K: Fair enough. To add to Dave's point, as skillful as the Films you might want to watch out for: 1942 in the first of four films starring the gentle Horton in movie was at staying out of the political arena, it was Indy IV “Horton Hatches an Egg.” Since then, he has perhaps equally skillful at keeping and incorporating the moral best been immortalized (on the screen anyway) by Chuck lessons that were so much a part of the book. Without Forbidden Kingdom Jones, his friend and confidant. Which leads us to an being too preachy (which was the whole point of the Get Smart almost ironclad rule for adapting any story of the venera - metaphors Dr. Seuss used), audiences, and young people Iron Man ble Dr. S. to the big screen. When the film is animated by specifically, will recognize the lessons that the story Forgetting Sarah Marshall a brilliant director and has ridiculously good voice talent, it embraces. Horton cares for and looks after Whoville, just becomes an instant classic. When done by live actors — as its Mayor tries to protect its citizens. Young people will Son of Ranbow no matter who or what is involved—it becomes instantly see the themes of believing in yourself and doing the right Harold and Kumar Escape from Guantanamo Bay creepy and a waste of money. thing in the way that Horton stands up to the other animals Wall E who can't hear the Whos. Like the books, children will find Wanted K: You're absolutely right, Dave. When I first saw the themselves absorbed into this colorful and funny world, makeup on Mike Myers for “The Cat in the Hat,” I predict - and will come away with some life lessons, nonetheless. David D. Jones works with RE/MAX Equitygroup in Portland ed that it would scare the bejeezus out of any kid under the Oregon and helps Who’s, Delusional Elephants, and Doubting age of 14. This seems to be a new Hollywood trend, D: “Horton Hears a Who” is a good story, has great act - Kangaroos find their perfect home, including dandelion specks, because the Johnny Depp version of Willy Wonka was ing, wonderful directing, and is a delightful film that is and lone mountain tops. Kevin Gutteron lives in Hollywood and nothing short of downright creepy. appropriate for everybody in the entire world. It will invari - does not eat green eggs and ham. Not on a starlet, not on a har - Also, I'm sure that many viewers remember the last ably become a classic and you will punch it up “On lot...Mail can be sent to [email protected] time Jim Carrey was associated with a Dr. Seuss project— Demand” or on Blue Ray every Thanksgiving for all the Recent archives of The Popcorn Papers can be read in the “How the Grinch Stole Christmas”—and his hyperactive, children to watch while you go back and try to avoid hav - Newsletter section at www.DavidSellsPortland.com & Robin Williams-like performance in it. So when I saw that ing real conversations with your relatives. Sigh ... I hate www.RogersPark.org he was the lead voice in this film, acting opposite Steve reviewing really good movies. Carell, I thought to myself, "Uh-oh." Fortunately, my fears Homebuyer Pools Resources to Reach Ownership Goal By Jan van der Woerd

ormer Rogers Park resident Gwendolyn Wade tance through the CPS Employer Assisted Housing along with a $5,000 closing cost grant—Wade’s purchase F recently reached a goal six years in the making. Program. To secure the grant, Wade was required to par - price range changed dramatically. Thanks to careful planning and collaboration with a ticipate in RPCDC’s First Time Homebuyer Training, Utilizing the services of National City Bank (an IHDA number of agencies, Wade is now the owner of a single- which outlines every step of the home purchase process. partner lender), Wade succeeded in gaining access to yet family home in Chicago’s Brainerd neighborhood. “Armed with my IDA funds and the information given in another opportunity—the City of Chicago’s Mortgage Many city programs are available to first time home - class, I did a lot of research to see what I could do next,” Revenue Bond Program (“City Mortgage”), offering a buyers, but the collaborative effort by which Wade says Wade, referencing her new-found knowledge. reduced interest rate and a grant equivalent to four per - secured home financing is especially unique. Although she was approved for closing-cost and cent of her purchase price. Enthusiastic about the multi - Wade initially became interested in the north-of- down-payment assistance, Wade had yet to secure mort - ple layers of financing, her loan officer was willing to bring Howard Individual Development Account (IDA) program gage financing and locate her ideal home. After complet - all the pieces together. offered by Asset Builders Community Development ing training, Wade opted for additional one-on-one coun - With time running out, Wade finally found the home Corporation in cooperation with Charter One Bank. This seling with RPCDC (1530 W. Morse), whose staff helped she wanted, but signing a contract was only the first step. need-based program for low-income individuals offers a evaluate her income, expenses and long-term budget. Countless forms and applications had to be completed for three-to-one savings match of up to $8,000 total. (For Wade soon realized that her ideal purchase—a single- each funding source while a slew of phone calls and instance, if the participant saves $1,000, the IDA program family home—was still quite a stretch. After viewing many meetings were required to facilitate the purchase. On a contributes $3,000 to those savings.) Participants are properties, she became frustrated with the lack of afford - Friday evening, after a lengthy closing, Wade proudly held required to attend a series of financial literacy classes, to able housing citywide. With two children at home, Wade up the keys to her new home. regularly add to their savings account and to define a was also concerned with safety. She stayed hopeful that Today, Wade is satisfied with her achievement. “It clear objective for savings. After six years of steady the right opportunity would present itself. was a scary process and a happy process at the same progress, Wade’s IDA funds were applied toward a home Wade’s relationship with RPCDC had proven benefi - time,” she explains. “I am really glad that I can assist my down payment exactly as she had planned. cial thus far, and her housing counselor there told her of children in the future with an asset like a home!” Wade is “The IDA program is really beneficial to people who can an Illinois Housing Development Authority (IHDA) pro - spreading the word to friends and family about all the pro - use these services,” says Wade. gram that offered an interest-free 30-year loan to eligible grams available to first-time home buyers. She had suc - Wade first contacted the Rogers Park Community clients. During the loan term, no payments are required, cessfully found funding assistance from the city, the state, Development Corporation (RPCDC) after hearing about a but the borrower must repay the loan in full at the end of her bank, her community and her employer! grant opportunity through her employer, Chicago Public the 30-year term. (Borrowers are encouraged to re- Schools (CPS). A full-time school nurse, she was eligible finance the loan balance prior to the due date.) With Jan van der Woerd is a homebuyer educator with the Rogers to receive $3,000 in down payment/closing cost assis - $40,000 available to her with no monthly payments— Park Community Development Corporation. 12 ROGERS PARK 2000 Rogers Park Welcomes Chinese Civil Servants continued from first page

More than 100 students attended the March 28 event held services to residents at the journey’s end. Moore ter place to hold an event in that spirit than Rogers Park, in the Sky Room at the Loyola Park Field House (1230 W. explained the basic workings of Chicago-style govern - where more than 75 languages are spoken every day. Greenleaf). Speakers included 49th Ward Alderman Joe ment while Boggs familiarized the audience with commu - See below for the insights of Huang Yuanfang, a mid- Moore, RPCC executive director Elizabeth Vitell, former nity policing philosophy and strategy. ranking official in Xigang District, province of Dalian. 24th District Police Commander David Boggs and last but The concept of foreclosure—which Sjoblom attempted to “Because my daily work at home is to serve the commu - not least, Rogers Park Community Development explain—seemed especially hard to grasp for individuals nities, I am quite interested in how U.S. counterparts do Corporation (RPCDC) director Caleb Sjoblom. whose homes essentially remain government property their jobs and how organizations function,” he explains. In order to illustrate the paradox of independently run throughout their lifetimes. “The presentation answered my questions well and yet government-supported community-based organiza - In a time when ignorance-based fear and extreme offered a lot of good information on U.S. programs and tions, Vitell used colorful symbols and graphics depicting nationalism divide many of the earth’s peoples, it is espe - practices.” (See the Summer issue for more “East meets the flow of funds through various channels, with direct cially crucial to promote cultural exchange. And what bet - West” perspectives.)

Community Organizations like RPCC Offer Great Information

By Huang Yuanfang

n March 28, Chinese civil servants (including quite different from that of China. In China, these works Governments always play the leading role in community O myself), who are currently students of the MPA pro - are undertaken by community committees which are construction and management. The amount of donations gram at IIT, gathered at Loyola Park to hear pre - funded and supervised by local governments and sub- for community service from local private sectors and res - sentations by the directors of several community organi - district government offices. idents is very limited. Some programs are short of funds zations and Joe Moore, alderman for the 49th ward, an Most of the services have been provided similarly for to operate smoothly. Although there are many volunteers elected official. a long time in China, but we can learn some new ideas working in communities, people, especially young people Before I came to USA, I worked in a sub-district gov - from those programs to improve our current government are not willing to participate actively in the daily manage - ernment office in Dalian, whose mission is to provide services. For example, the work done by Rogers Park ment of their communities. These are some of the prob - community services to local residents and businesses, to Community Development Corporation (RPCDC) is brand- lems we are facing in our work. improve the quality of their lives and promote local econ - new to me. It promotes low and moderate income hous - China is now trying to build up a harmonious society, omy. As per the introduction of Ms. Elizabeth A. Vitell, ing development in the area, conducts training for condo - and our city government has been taking great efforts in executive director of Rogers Park Community Council minium Boards of Directors, and also has contracts with improving the lives of people and constructing harmo - (RPCC), non-profit organizations like RPCC in USA play the City, State, and lenders to do homebuyer counseling nious communities. How to encourage all the forces in a major role in providing community service by operating and foreclosure counseling. These kinds of services are communities to jointly contribute to their neighborhood several programs, such as housing action program, youth very thoughtful and putting people’s real needs first. and how to improve local government work are my cur - intervention program, senior initiatives program, victim Contracting out almost all the community services to rent concerns. So I feel it is worthwhile to learn more and advocacy support program. These programs offer exten - non-for-profit organizations is a common operation in make a further study in this field so that I may have some sive help and service to local residents. The organizations U.S., while it is rarely seen in China. We do have some new ideas in my future work in China and make a differ - are funded not only by governments, but also by mem - private business and non-for-profit organizations working ence in my career. bers, local business and private foundations, which is in the community, but they are not the major players. ROGERS PARK 2000 13 WWOORRDD OOFF MMOOUUTTHH By Paul Marcus Taste Food & Wine Sandra Carter and Linda Van Amerongen, all of whom 1506 W. Jarvis came together in this venture to celebrate their love of 773.761.3663 food and wine. Open Monday through Saturday 11am to 9pm The handsome Taste storefront is warm and inviting, Sunday 11am to 6pm (closed Tuesday) mirroring perfectly the owners’ attitude about their busi - The Jarvis Square restoration at Jarvis and ness. Visitors to Taste are exposed to products from Greenview has yielded yet another terrific offering for food small-batch vineyards around the world—brands that are and drink. Sandwiched between the Italian specialties at not found at the supermarket. Gruppo di Amici and the Poitin Stil Irish tavern is Taste Wine offerings represent much more than the tradi - Food & Wine, a smart little wine and appetizer shop. tional European sources, most affordably priced at Debbie Evans and husband Jamie represent one- between $10 and $15 (even less for some bottles). A 10 quarter of the four close-knit couples who own Taste and percent discount is offered on cases of wine. The Taste share equally in the work duties there. (The couple also team is constantly on the lookout for new and exciting own and operate Celtic Knot at 626 Church in Evanston). varietals to share with clientele. Other co-owners include acclaimed restaurateur Eric Every Monday and Friday evening from 6:30 to 8pm, Aubriot and wife Carrie, Steve and Linda McMillan, and the shop hosts free wine tastings. A convivial atmosphere pervades the space as wine lovers and neighbors gather to sample featured reds, whites and yes, rosés. A recent other goodies. For lunch, try a homemade soup (pre - Valentines tasting, for example, paired champagnes with pared fresh daily) along with a Panini, or grab a creamy imported chocolates. cupcake. The energetic owners of Taste continue to look for Taste’s well-stocked shelves also hold a nice selec - new ways to reach out to the neighborhood. Coming tion of imported beers like Unibroue and Boddington, as soon is a special workshop featuring information on local well as specialty liquors. Evans and her partners tend to BYOB restaurants and beverages that complement their stock products with a unique story or those that are local - menus. Area restaurants Taste of Peru (6545 N. Clark) ly produced. One such example is a wheat-based gin and and Luzzat (1505 W. Jarvis) will provide free food to sam - vodka brand from Washington Island, Wisconsin called ple with the featured wines or beers. A wine club is also Death’s Door—a name that dares you to try it. in the works, with classes and a discounted wine-of-the- There is a kind of family attitude growing among the month selection. new stores at Jarvis Square while neighbors and out - Patrons need not be wine experts to appreciate siders alike appear to be welcoming them with a revived Taste. The staff is open to questions as well as sugges - sense of community. tions. Wine is often carefully paired with food, and to that Filmmaker Paul Marcus has lived in Rogers Park for nearly end, Taste carries an enticing variety of imported 10 years. cheeses, prepared meats, crackers, olives, cookies and Older Adults Share Insights Through Council for Jewish “Reflecting Miles” Art Exhibit Elderly Changes Name to CJE SeniorLife By Jeremy Barewin

iving for more than 30 years near Estes and it. “I can portray some of the things that I’ve done in my L California, Shirley Blumenfeld could often be seen lifetime, some of my accomplishments and my enjoy - outside her home gardening and planting flowers. ments.” Davis first became involved in art as a Girl Scout Her love of nature and art ran deep as she would regu - in Morgan Park, only to see her participation wane as she larly take her daughters to nearby Indian Boundary Park raised four children and worked as a registered nurse for or to the Art Institute of Chicago for a Saturday morning 25 years. It wasn’t until 2005, when she began coming to n January 1, nonprofit organization Council for visit. “She has always had an appreciation of art,” says the ADS center (1015 W. Howard, Evanston), that she O Jewish Elderly (CJE) officially became known as Blumenfeld’s daughter Randee Curciarello. finally rekindled her passions. Her love of animals, regu - CJE SeniorLife. A new tagline of “Jewish Values for But it wasn’t until recently that Blumenfeld, 82, lar visits to the shores along Lake Michigan, and years of Positive Aging” reflects the agency’s past while outlining a applied her lifelong interest in art to an actual canvas caring for others in the medical field are often reflected in healthy aging vision for the future. using pastels and a brush. She was one of 30 artists who “CJE has been and continues to go through a transi - contributed to “Reflecting Miles,” a CJE SeniorLife art tion, repositioning itself in the marketplace,” says CJE installation featured this winter at ARC Gallery (832 W. president-chief executive officer Mark D. Weiner. “This is Superior). All participating artists live at CJE SeniorLife a natural part of change in response to a demanding and residences or otherwise take part in CJE programs. changing industry and market. The name change honors Consisting of more than 75 paintings and an audio our past, but reflects a re-branding to help us, as an tour in the artists’ voices, the exhibit reflected thoughts agency, better communicate to our current and future and feelings on such topics as politics, relationships, customers.” technology, environment, religion, war, aging and pop cul - The 35-year-old agency has also changed its logo to ture. More than 100 people attended a January 17 include a pomegranate. This fruit is of major significance gallery reception with artists and their family members, in Jewish theology and history, its 613 seeds representing CJE SeniorLife staff and community representatives. the 613 “mitzvoth” (commandments) that Jews must keep. “Self-expression through the creative arts is a way for Eighteen colorful pomegranate seeds in the new CJE older adults to address the life issues that often arise dur - SeniorLife logo represent “chai,” the Hebrew word for life. ing the aging process, whether it’s the onset of dementia, “At our core, we are a Jewish-sponsored organiza - a decline in physical or cognitive health or a general loss tion, driven by our Jewish values of respect, advocacy, of self,” says Sara Bennett-Steele, a CJE SeniorLife art compassion, intention and accountability,” says Weiner. therapist who helped organize the project. “The pomegranate seeds represent our commitment to Blumenfeld’s love of gardening was evident in her 12 our values and our responsibility to respond to the chang - x 12-inch painting of a potted plant overflowing with bright ing and diverse market by continuing to enhance the qual - pink flowers near an array of blue and purple flowers ity of our programming.” growing from the green earth. “It (painting) keeps me The two-year re-branding process included more busy,” she says. “Life is interesting. I’m not just sitting than 150 individual and group meetings within the com - around.” munity. CJE SeniorLife (formerly Council for Jewish Elderly, CJE SeniorLife serves 16,000 older adults annually. see sidebar) is one of few agencies in Chicagoland with a For more information about programs and services, call comprehensive creative arts therapy program for seniors, Artist Shirley Blumenfeld points to her creation amidst the many 773.508.1000 or visit www.cje.net. employing three full-time art therapists and one full-time works produced by CJE SeniorLife residents and participants for music therapist, all with Master’s degrees. Self-expres - “Reflecting Miles.” This very special exhibit of paintings by older sion through the creative arts is proven to aid older adults adults was on display last winter at ARC Gallery (832 W. creative arts can bring out these short-term memories. It with self-esteem issues, pent-up emotions and isolation, Superior). is so important for the individual to share these emotions while preserving a sense of pride and dignity and provid - that are inside, and that was the intention behind the ing opportunities for success. “The purpose is not neces - her paintings, including her portrait of a nurse that Reflecting Miles project.” sarily for people to create great art, but to learn more adorned the ARC wall. CJE SeniorLife (3003 W. Touhy) provides programs about themselves,” adds Bennett-Steele. “Individually, Ralitza Vladimirov, creative arts therapist at ADS and and services for older adults and their families throughout you see the residents in awe at what they can accom - a co-organizer of the exhibit, explains that expression Chicagoland. For more information about services, call plish.” through paintings and other forms of art can serve as a 773.508.1000 or visit www.cje.net. Elnora Davis—a current Rogers Park resident and bridge from the past to the present. “Older adults in early member of CJE’s Adult Day Services (ADS) program — stages of dementia can often remember the emotional uses art as an emotional outlet. “For me, it’s a form of events from their past, but they are unable to process ver - Jeremy Barewin serves as senior associate of public relations relaxation,” says Davis, who had two pieces in the exhib - bally what is going on in the present,” she explains. “The and marketing for CJE SeniorLife. 14 ROGERS PARK 2000 Leather Craftsman Brings Old World Standards to Howard Street

By Seth Schwartz

ven if you look hard, it’s easy to miss. Just west of “In Greece, almost works with doctors of St. Francis Hospital (355 Ridge, E the Northwestern railroad tracks on Howard Street all shoes were made Evasnton), who provide him with an “outline” on which to sits a small shoe repair store. by hand,” Prokopios make adjustments, sometimes by raising a sole or Through the window, a row of assorted shoes is vis - explains. “People walk decreasing length. “You just have to be careful and follow ible. Against the east wall is a sewing machine. A much more so they want the doctor’s instructions,” notes Prokopios, who works on counter and tiny swinging door separate owner Chris a stronger shoe. We’d roughly 50 pairs of orthopedic shoes a year. Prokopios from the many customers who visit daily. At measure the foot and One reason Prokopios has been able to flourish 375 square feet, quarters are a little cramped. stitch the leather togeth - while others have gone out of business is a loyal cus - For the last 33 years, Shoe Repair & Leather Work at er by hand, so it fit like a tomer base from all geographic areas and ethnic back - 1913 W. Howard is where Prokopios has toiled, mending Chris Prokopios uses a heavy-duty glove. There was a lot of grounds. “We have clients from Skokie, Des Plaines and shoes and administering to a litany of leathers as he ham - sewing machine to stitch and repair competition; people Elgin as well as Chicago mers out the American dream. He was born in 1947 in leather goods. Photo by Marolyn expected a shoe to last a and Evanston,” states Taylor. long time.” Prokopios. “I treat every - With his brother Bob one the same, no matter and sister Bessie living in where they are from or Chicago, Prokopios decided to join them in 1977. “I knew what they look like.” a city the size of Chicago would have a better opportuni - Shoe Repair and ty for business,” he says. Leather Work has been Prokopios purchased the Howard Street shoe store a great home for shortly thereafter, unaware that the spot had its own Prokopios, who tries to impressive history until he came across an old photo of be a friend to all. Prokopios uses “lasts” like these to Vince Vitale Sr. in a drawer. The Vitale family owned the “Sometimes people help keep a shoe’s shape. Photo by place from 1932 to 1977. When Vince Jr. got a job work - come in and ask for a Marolyn Taylor. ing for the city, Vince Sr. retired and sold the business. dollar or two for soup A year after Prokopios was established, he returned and I give them a dollar,” to Olympia, where he met Rita. Prokopios asked if she he remarks. “Some people pay back and others don’t.” would be interested in moving to America. When she Prokopios considers his children to be his biggest replied ‘yes,’ they wed, returning to Chicago to take an investment. Patty, Peter, Joanne and Stacy all graduated apartment at Damen and Howard. In 1986, after starting from Maine East High School. Peter earned an academ - a family, they relocated to Morton Grove. ic scholarship to the University of Illinois-Champaign For the first few years, Prokopios focused on shoe Urbana and now works as an engineer for Motorola. Expert craftsman Chris Prokopios has operated a shoe and leather repair. Always resourceful, he began to make belts and Patty is a pharmacist, Joanne is a teacher in Morton repair shop at 1913 W. Howard since 1977. In addition to repair - they sold quickly. (The belts come in a variety of sizes Grove and Stacy is a junior at University of Illinois- ing shoes, boots and other goods, Prokopios makes belts and and colors, ranging in price from $25 to $45.) Prokopios Chicago. orthopedic shoes by hand—and will also make keys while you soon became adept at fixing bags, purses and suitcases. Three years ago, Prokopios brought local resident wait. Photo by Marolyn Taylor. When other owners saw expensive materials, they would Ronald Anderson on board. After shining shoes on the shy away from a job. But Prokopios has found a niche street for years, Anderson has become a trusted assistant repairing luxury goods like Gucci and Louis Vuitton, in charge of shining and cleaning. People often drop in the small town of Olympia, Greece. After high school, patching tears on leather coats and replacing zippers. just to say hello and chat. “I’ve been in this neighborhood Prokopios briefly studied mathematics in college. In Like an experienced doctor, Prokopios has learned to long enough for people to know me,” says Prokopios. And 1975, he visited Chicago for five months, working in a listen to the patient, make a diagnosis and prescribe a it’s a good bet that he will be on the job for many years to west-side factory before returning to Greece. While there, cure. “I hear what they tell me or look at a picture and I come! Prokopios spent two years laboring for a shoe repairman figure it out from there,” he says. “With a shoe, I can feel and learning the trade. “If customers didn’t like your work, what’s wrong with my hand.” you could go out of business,” he recalls. Superior crafts - Another special skill he acquired is making shoes for A 12-year Rogers Park resident, Seth Schwartz covers high- manship was imperative. people with one leg shorter than the other. He currently school sports for the Chicago Sun-Times. ROGERS PARK 2000 15 Crackdown on Condo Fraud continued from first page

In particular, a building at 7633-39 N. Greenview can no longer afford the mortgage payments. ing mortgage options (such as negative amortization) that became a nuisance with criminal activity. Haggerty con - The condo fraud occurring in Rogers Park is set in may ultimately increase a borrower’s chances of default tacted Alderman Joe Moore (49th Ward), who assembled the context of a community undergoing gentrification. and foreclosure. “Consequently there is dialogue over a task force of local residents, community organizations Gentrification is a process in which low and moderate whether some of the available credit options are appro - and city officials to join Haggerty in finding a solution to income households are replaced by higher income priate for specific borrowers, whether they are properly the growing problem. The city charged Kakvand with mul - households, often at the cost of resident displacement. underwritten, and whether borrowers are informed of the tiple housing-code violations. However, according to Sjoblom, displacement statistics risks of nontraditional products,” reads the report. While the U.S. Attorney’s Office and Federal Bureau are hard to come by. The matter seems to be a touchy one at the Federal of Investigation (FBI) became involved, the FBI agent Lakeside Community Development Corporation Reserve. Alicia Williams, who serves as vice president of working on the case was reassigned to New York follow - (1806 W. Greenleaf) serves the communities of Rogers consumer and community affairs, refused to comment on ing the events of September 11, 2001, which stalled the Park, West Ridge, North Park, North Center, Lincoln the issue of condo fraud. When asked whether someone Kakvand investigation. Three years and $29 million in Square, Albany Park, Uptown and Edgewater. would be available for an interview on the topic, Michelle defaulted mortgage loans later, Kakvand was indicted by The organization’s October 2006 “Community Housing Coussens, senior analyst in the Federal Reserve’s federal prosecutors along with his partners Syed Ali Audit” evaluated 479 Rogers Park multifamily rental build - research department, responded with this cryptic mes - Mohammed Razvi and Thomas M. Groh, who acted as ings with 13,659 rental units, accounting for 65 percent of sage: “I would back off. I think that you should let this go.” Kakvand’s real estate appraiser. Groh pleaded guilty to the neighborhood’s rental housing market in the 2000 But Haggerty is one who won’t let the issue go. She one count of wire fraud, while Kakvand and Razvi fled the Census. is currently working on a report to pass on to the FBI and country. A survey of those buildings found that condominium hopes that Attorney General Lisa Madigan will take up the A native Iranian, Kakvand changed his name and conversions have taken over rental housing at a rate of issue. No one from the Attorney General’s Office took a job with Bliss Energy Drinks based in Saudi Arabia. The company sent him to Canada, where police learned Kakvand’s true identity after he was pulled over Rental Tenants Often Innocent on a moving violation. He was promptly extradited to the U.S. and pleaded guilty to the mortgage and wire fraud charges on February 12, 2007. Victims of Foreclosure Nearly one full year later, Haggerty spoke at Kakvand’s sentencing hearing on behalf of the communi - By Erica Christoffer ty. “Because Kakvand entered a plea of guilty, the sen - tencing hearing provided the sole opportunity to present oreclosures can be a long and difficult process. a blemish which stays on record for future landlords to evidence,” explains RPCC executive director Elizabeth F Owners end up in court with ruined credit. Banks find. Vitell, also present at the hearing. “Haggerty’s concise but are out money owed on mortgages. But where do William Moore of Lawyers Committee for Better vivid descriptions of the disrepair, decay and generally tenants fit in? Housing would like to see the law modified to allow judges unlivable conditions that befell Kakvand’s buildings were Families and individuals renting homes and condos to “seal” eviction court cases in which the renter is not at compelling and highly persuasive,” adds Vitell, herself an are often overlooked when an owner undergoes foreclo - fault, preventing future landlords from viewing records. attorney. Thanks in part to Haggerty’s powerful and effec - sure, according to John Bartlett, director of the “If this was one of the pharmaceutical companies tive testimony, Kakvand was sentenced to nine years in Metropolitan Tenants Organization (MTO). “The problem and there was a drug that (adversely) affected a person’s prison. U.S. District Judge William Hibbler ordered we see is that there is absolutely no communication going health, the drug company would file a motion to seal the Kakvand to pay $8.4 million in restitution. “The damages on between the owner and the tenant,” Bartlett says. record and it would be allowed,” illustrates Moore. “So if caused not only to the lending institutions, but to the com - MTO saw a sharp increase in foreclosure-related they will seal a record in these cases, why won’t they seal munity, are immeasurable,” he said. cases during the second half of 2007, answering about 49 the record in somebody’s eviction case?” Kakvand’s sentencing was widely reported in local calls from tenants renting throughout Chicago. In most If renters suspect something is amiss in the building, media including the Chicago Sun-Times and Chicago instances, renters were suddenly served with eviction Bartlett’s advice is to find out if the landlord is in court. Tribune. notices because their landlords had defaulted on a mort - Court filings are considered open records. In Cook gage. In one case, according to Bartlett, the sheriff actu - County, they may be accessed through the Circuit Court The search for criminals continues ally showed up at the door of the renter’s home, instruct - clerk’s website at www.cookcountyclerkofcourt.org. A form of mortgage fraud, condo fraud occurs when ing him to vacate immediately. Bartlett also encourages tenants to talk to the owner and a developer, owner or mortgage broker converts rental Currently, 20 percent of buildings in foreclosure are ask questions. units to condos and sells the units at inflated prices to renter-occupied, says Bartlett. “It’s a fairly significant Real-estate attorney Richard Magnone offers guid - uneducated buyers with promises of a good investment. chunk of who is being hurt through no fault of their own,” ance as well. If a landlord is unavailable or refuses to These criminals sometimes pay “straw buyers” for use of he notes. accept the rent payment, he advises, the tenant should their names and credit information in order to take out On the upside, a recent change in the law aims to pay the rent to a court-appointed receiver or to the mort - loans much larger than a property is worth, and for their protect tenants from unexpected evictions. Previously in gage holder. If efforts to pay rent remain unsuccessful, signature on fraudulent documents. The developer then Illinois, tenants renting in a building or condo undergoing the tenant will likely need to contact the court to deter - pockets the extra money as a “closing cost” and runs, foreclosure didn’t have much say in the matter. But as of mine who will accept payments. while the buyer (if legitimate) is stuck with an inflated January 1, any tenant with a signed lease who is current “In either case, the tenant should get a receipt for mortgage. Units usually go into foreclosure. Renting ten - on rent payments may remain in the home for up to four payment,” Magnone writes in his Illinois Attorney blog. ants remain completely in the dark. “Some buyers think months after receiving notice of foreclosure. If less than Meanwhile, Moore suggests that tenants make all they are making a smart investment,” explains RPCDC four months remain on a lease, the tenant must vacate requests in writing and keep records. “It’s very difficult for director Caleb Sjoblom. the building by the time that lease expires. If more than the tenant to stay current with rent if the landlord disap - four months remain on the lease, the tenant has a full 120 pears,” he admits. In that case, renters should store the The American dream falls short days to move. Even renters without a valid lease are pro - rent, and write a letter to both the landlord and the bank Haggerty—who works to preserve and create afford - tected; landlords and mortgage companies must give stating that rent owed has been retained in a bank able housing stock—believed at one time that Kakvand’s them at least 30 days to move. (The law also states that account. “This action shows the judge that the tenant has operation was a one-time occurrence for Rogers Park. tenants must continue paying rent during this period.) made a good faith effort,” Moore explains. But the similarities between Kakvand’s buildings and the These stipulations provide renters with time to make Illinois law should include a provision, he says, allow - building she is investigating today are too great, she said. arrangements, pack their belongings and find a new ing tenants to stay in their homes if a good-faith effort is In Skowronski’s building in the 3800 block of North home. made to pay rent. “After all, the tenant is an innocent vic - Seeley, four units were purchased by the same person in Sadly, many renters are unaware of the mandatory tim,” he points out. July and August of 2006. Although the units were recent - 120-day notice period, Bartlett explains. They are often ly appraised at between $18,000 and $22,000 by the city pushed out too soon, with some ending up in shelters or of Chicago, the deed filed with the county lists the selling living with family. Erica Christoffer is a freelance writer and graduate student at price at between $165,000 and $195,000. Then there’s the problem of eviction court records. Columbia College working towards a master's degree in public While the owner is listed in the phone book at a sec - Renters forced to move due to foreclosure receive an affairs journalism. She is originally from Minneapolis, ond residence in the 2400 block of West Bryn Mawr, no eviction notice even if they have paid their rent on time— Minnesota and currently resides in Rogers Park. phone number is given. Additionally, the Cook County Treasurer’s Office has no record of a property index num - ber for the Rogers Park building. 900 to 1,000 units per year—much faster than in previous returned phone messages and e-mails asking for com - In a similar case that Haggerty is investigating, two years. Condominium conversions reduced the rental ments. units underwent foreclosure in the same building only a housing supply in Rogers Park by 17.4 percent between Haggerty also plans to continue helping residents week after she learned of problems there. Haggerty has 2003 and 2006, the report concludes. through RPCC and RPCDC classes and counseling. identified a husband-and-wife team who operate a bro - Lakeside (1806 W. Greenleaf) found documented “Every first-time homebuyer should take a class,” kerage firm, which she believes is luring buyers into fraud - evidence of illegal displacement of renters who were not Haggerty notes. ulent mortgages. At least two buyers that she spoke with properly notified of their rights related to condo conver - When Skowronski was looking for a resource to didn’t seem to know what they were getting into. sions, according to the study. In fact, some developments advise him on the situation in his building, he found “Someone they trust is promising to get them rich,” were completed without proper permits, and few created Haggerty’s name on a flyer at the library. “When I have to Haggerty suspects. affordable rental or ownership opportunities in their build - move, it might kill me,” said says. “The rents are going ings. “A lot more people than just the condo buyers are through the roof.” Putting condo fraud in a context impacted by this problem,” Haggerty says, “including Skowronski’s advice to would-be condo buyers? Stacy Karel, a real estate agent who specializes in condo owners looking to sell in a falsely inflated market, “Save your paperwork, never give cash and don’t sign condo sales with Keller Williams Chicago Properties, says legitimate buyers and rental tenants.” anything without checking it out.” she has not heard of the condo fraud problem. Haggerty and others working to preserve affordable “If something like this has occurred, it is not affecting the housing say that laws must be put in place to protect market in general,” Karel comments. Yet both Haggerty renters from being left on the street when foreclosures and Sjoblom believe that inflated prices in the fraudulent occur. Kakvand’s buildings left about 60 Rogers Park condo sales have contributed to rising housing costs in families displaced between 1999 and 2001. Haggerty Rogers Park. “The market ballooned and prices were arti - doesn’t want to see that happen again. Erica Christoffer is a freelance writer and graduate student at ficially inflated for a long time,” Sjoblom explains. The Chicago Federal Reserve’s Consumer and Columbia College working towards a master's degree in public One buyer Haggerty is assisting purchased a 1,000- Community Affairs Department released a mortgage affairs journalism. She is originally from Minneapolis, square-foot, three-bedroom condo for over $300,000. He fraud report in December 2006 that says banks are offer - Minnesota and currently resides in Rogers Park. 16 ROGERS PARK 2000

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