HIGHLIGHTS THIS ISSUE

Officially Speaking ...... 3 Gateway Progress ...... 14 Arts Beat ...... 17 Food Fun ...... 18

Volume 4, Issue 3 September, 1999 Published by the Rogers Park Community Council (circulation: 10,000) Rogers Park YouthNet Fun Camp '99

By Vernandez Jones

ogers Park Youth Network (RPYN) Fun Camp When the staff was R opened it doors July 6th to youth 11-13 years of asked why kids should age. An exciting summer full of sports, recreational get involved in the activities and fun field trips was about to begin. Campers RPYN, Eladio Gomez enjoyed participating and learning skills in volleyball, bas- responded "they can ketball and softball. interact with other peo- The RPYN Fun Camp in collaboration with the ple from different ethnic Howard Area Community Center's Youth Coordinator, and cultural back- Ginger Spitzer participated in field trips including: grounds. By doing this Wendella Sightseeing Boat Tour, Kiddieland, Racing they can expand their Rapids Water Park, Lincoln Park Zoo and a special thank creative minds." you to the Chicago White Sox for donating 50 tickets. We Russell Cunningham all had a great time at the game. said "kids should get The RPYN Fun Camp staff (Chris Baskoff, Russell involved because Cunningham, Andrea Ferguson, Eladio Gomez and RPYN brings teens Arlene Taylor from the Mayor's Office of Work Force together and helps Development) demonstrated an open willingness to work them develop strategies with youth. For most, this was their first job experience. for dealing with issues The campers looked up to them to provide guidance and they are confronted leadership; this made them feel very special. with on a daily basis." Youth Net Fun Camp provided a special and personable When the staff was asked why they chose to work at In response to the question: What does the RPYN atmosphere for campers and remains eager in its efforts the RPYN, Arlene Taylor responded "because of the dif- mean to you? Andrea Ferguson said " RPYN is a place to meet the challenges of youth as we enter the new mil- ferent people we would get the opportunity to work with- where kids and teens can come for an array of activities lenium. through this diversity we learned teamwork, discipline and homework help. It provides a place that keeps kids and cooperation." off the street in a caring environment." Vernandez Jones is the Prevention and Recreation Coordinator at RPYN. For more information on youth pro- grams, call (773) 761-5498. For its first summer the Rogers Park

Summer Teen Success and

Fall Plans By June C. Terpstra

ummer 1999 offered the Rogers Park Youth Network prises including talent shows and rummage S (RPYN) the opportunity for staff and youth members sales. (We have become a favorite place for to join in a successful partnership that will carry for- Loyola faculty and staff to donate books, cloth- ward. RPYN has expanded the partnership with the ing and other stuff!) Howard Area Community Center’s TeenReach program. Funding from the Driehaus Foundation The collaboration brings together the resources of two allowed us to bring Jill Swan to RPYN as a Ginger Spitzer, Youth Outreach Coordinator for Howard Area successful programs to offer a full compliment of summer consultant to our entrepreneurial team. Community Center, and Vernandez Jones, Recreation Coor- recreational, educational, and social development initia- Working with teens and staff, Jill developed an dinator for Rogers Park YouthNet, receive awards for participa- tives. exciting curriculum for training future business tion and collaboration in the June 5th S.A.F.E. Night events. While many teens had ‘nothing to do’, this summer, leaders. Jill is a tremendous asset for teens RPYN and TeenReach kids were able to partake in a myr- and has endured the usual chaos that comes 3. Reach out to other teens in our community to increase iad of classes, sport programs, and city excursions. with the first year of a new program. This summer, the participation. Classes offered included leadership and entrepreneurial entrepreneurial team participated in classes on inventory This fall, RPYN will continue to build on its partner- development, youth and law, dance, painting, mural paint- analysis, conducted marketing surveys, organized two ship with TeenReach. Programs are offered for youth ing, music business, and performance poetry. Teens “yard-sale” fundraisers and sponsored an “end of the aged 11 through 18. RPYN is open Monday through were also able to participate in soccer training camp at summer” community festival. It was a blessing to see the Friday from 2:30 until 8 pm. On Saturdays, Quality Time Warren Park and our basketball league at Loyola Park. ways in which the teens took initiative and leadership in Music School offers free violin and piano lessons. Fall Weekly, participants went on trips to Chicago highlights the project this summer. Thirteen students were able to classes will include: leadership and entrepreneurial train- such as the Peace Museum, Sox Park, and Racing combine work and education at the snack shop because ing; tutoring; how to D.J. & the music business; responsi- Rapids! (Who said there was nothing to do?) of support received from the Mayor's Office Workforce ble choices and parenting; as well as computer, youth and RPYN is located at 6600 N. Sheridan in a special Development (MOWD), the Chicago Community Trust law, dance and painting classes. place donated by Loyola University Chicago. The won- and the Driehaus Foundation. For more information on the Rogers Park Youth derful café has been claimed by our teens and named Network, visit our teen center at 6600 N. Sheridan Road "The Club". The program opened just about a year ago. This fall, our entrepreneurial program is working to or call 773-761-4980. Since that time, an entrepreneurial program was orga- achieve three objectives: nized which trains youth to operate a successful snack 1. Implement the curriculum and create an operations June C. Terpstra is a Rogers Park resident and serves as shop for program participants. Teens work with staff to manual; the director of the Rogers Park Youth Network. determine inventory, student job descriptions and sched- 2. Develop a business plan to enhance the training and ules. This fall, teens will investigate several micro-enter- employment opportunities for teens; and

2 ROGERS PARK 2000 CAPS In Command How Well Do You Know Rogers Park? By Commander David V. Boggs

riday, July 2, 1999 was the start of a holiday week- entire district during this period. Where is this mural painted? F end as well as a day that will be forever ingrained in I would like to thank the many members of the com- all of our minds. munity who came to the scenes on that evening, offering The tragic shooting of Jewish residents of our district information to our officers and comfort to the victim's fam- as well as the murders that followed are reminders that we ilies. As tragic as this was, the entire incident brought out must all be vigilant, at all times. The diversity of West and the best in our community. I saw police officers convers- East Rogers Park as well as Edgewater makes our com- ing with many residents on that evening. Some of the res- munity susceptible to attacks of both overt and much more idents knew the police officers from beat meetings they subtle bigotry. Although the gunman targeted the had attended. Still others knew the officers because the Orthodox Jewish community in West Rogers Park, anyone same officers work the same beats now. Whatever the could have been a target, given the racial and ethnic com- case, the community was very helpful and supportive of position of our community. all of our efforts and we are indeed grateful to the many I am extremely proud of the response that our police residents who showed their neighbors how much they officers and the community made to this crisis. cared. I would also like to thank the community residents Understandably, responding to this emergency was high- and beat facilitators who participated in the "silent vigil" at Send your correct response by September 30, 1999 to RPCC, ly manpower intensive. A great deal of police resources Indian Boundary Park the following Wednesday. The 1772 W. Lunt Avenue, Chicago, IL 60626. The winner of a were used to immediately respond to the various crime turnout and sincere show of support for each other was $25.00 gift certificate to the new Gateway Bar & Grill will be scenes. Fortunately, we plan for such emergency overwhelming. selected by lottery from the correct responses. Good Luck! The response(s). As police officers from all over our district It is now more important than ever to know your answer will be printed in the next issue of Rogers Park 2000. were directed to respond to a variety of tasks associated neighbor and know the police officers who patrol your with these shooting, other officers were brought into the neighborhood. The Chicago Alternative Policing Strategy Last issue's winner was Sharon Robinson. The lion is standing district to ensure the consistent delivery of police ser- (CAPS) contributes to your knowledge of crime preven- guard at Gullivers Restaurant at 2727 W. Howard. vices. We were able to coordinate all the scenes as well tion and solving problems that infect our community. We as continue to answer calls for service throughout the dis- are planning to get all segments of our community does not. Working with your beat officers and your neigh- trict with a minimum of problems. In the days that followed involved in CAPS and our monthly beat meetings. As we bors, regardless of your ethnic or racial heritage, makes the shooting incident, support units such as the Area experienced on July 2, no segment of the community can our community stronger and safer. I encourage you to Three Interdiction Team were brought into the district as stand alone, or should they. attend your next beat meeting and get involved in com- well as several other out of district units. We provided We are all here together. As I said, our community munity policing. Diversity does not mean that we are all directed patrol to sites that we believed were at risk and represents diversity and while we respect each other's that different. Together, we can make a difference. again, were able to amply deliver police services to the culture and heritage, we all need to recognize that crime Together, we can ..... WHAT'S NEW AT 1528 W. Morse Avenue?

n August 4th, Alderman Joe Moore (49th Ward), Rogers Park Community Council (RPCC) and O Rogers Park Community Development Corporation (RPCDC) co-sponsored a community meet- ing to present plans for 1528 W. Morse Avenue. The building, which was formerly a gang/drug infested eyesore, is being rehabbed for 57 units of affordable, accessible, rental senior housing. Approximately 70 people attended the meeting held in the parish hall of St. Jerome's Church. Alderman Moore explained his efforts in making this project a City priority in a time of scarce funds. Moore cited the ongoing improvements in the area. Since the building was vacated, crime on Morse Avenue has decreased significantly. Rehab of this property as a senior residence will further stabilize the area. Officer Debbie Thaxton, the 24th District Officer who received the keys for the building from the for- mer building manager, presented a picture of the unsafe and dilapidated conditions in the building before its closing. A significant percentage of police "calls for service" were due to gang and drug activ- ity at this building. The landlord and management agent walked away and gave the keys to the police in June 1997. Development partner, Jay Johnson, representing Urban Morse LLC, presented the architectural plans for the building, apartments and the parking lot. Johnson explained the funding sources and announced that he expects construction to being within the next six weeks. It is anticipated that the project will be completed before autumn of 2000. Cathy Vates, RPCDC Director, presented a proposal to vacate approximately 60 feet of the alley to the west of the building to create green space for a small contemplation park. The alley vacation would create a safer passage for Morse Avenue pedestrians and provide more green space to the street. The proposed park would be gated, lighted and secured at night. It would be available to build- ing residents during the day and evening hours. The new park is designed to not block any alley garages, and would provide space for existing refuse containers. Vates also spoke of the activities of the Morse Avenue Task Force and invited community residents to get involved with committees being formed by the Task Force. Call (773) 338-7732 for information on how you can become a committee member. FREE Fall Housing Workshops

By Mary Jane Haggerty

he Rogers Park Community Council's (RPCC) how to increase safety in your building - the purposes of T Housing Action and the Rogers Park Community phone trees and block watch groups, locations and times Development Corporation (RPCDC) will sponsor of beat meetings in the 24th District, and ways to work two workshops this fall - one on the Chicago Residential with your landlord to make sure your building is secure. Landlord Tenant Ordinance and one for condominium The RPCDC will present the second workshop and associations and potential condominium buyers. will focus on condominium ownership; self-management Editorial Committee: Jim Yeaman, CHAIR Lorraine Dostal, Sandi Price, Cary Steinbuck. RPCC will sponsor the Residential Landlord Tenant versus outside management; and what you need to know Writers: David V. Boggs, Larra Clarke, Lorraine Dostal, Ordinance Workshop to be held on Tuesday, September about condo associations, by-laws and regulations. This Carol Goldman, Ken Govas, Mary Jane Haggerty, 21st at Pottowatomie Park, 7340 N. Rogers, from 7:00 to workshop will be held on Thursday, October 7th at Vernandez Jones, Bonnie Tipton Long, Joe Moore, Norman Polk, Sandi Price, Selena Seferovic, 9:00 PM. Greg Knapp, of the Lawyers' Committee for Pottowattomie Park, 7340 N. Rogers, from 7:00 to 9:00 Ira Silverstein, Cary Steinbuck, Mary Tatro, Better Housing, has agreed to present the workshop. He PM. Participants who are interested in becoming first- Evelyn J. Thompson, Jack Thurston, Cathy Vates, will cover basic information about the ordinance and the time condo purchasers can also sign up at this workshop Pat Welsh, and Jim Yeaman. rights and responsibilities of tenants and landlords. The for a free, follow-up session on the homebuying process. Designer: Pon Angara workshop will answer frequently asked questions about Registration is free for both workshops, but advance Photos: Larra Clark, Vernandez Jones, Sandi Price, tenant remedies when landlords fail to live up to their end registration is necessary. Please call (773) 338-7732 to Cary Steinbuck, Jack E. Thurston. of the lease; leases and month-to-month tenancies and register, or if you have questions. Business Manager: Sandi Price how your rights in each situation may be different; the laws Executive Director: Cary Steinbuck covering provision of heat, hot water and other essential Mary Jane Haggerty is the Housing Organizer at the To Advertise, call (773) 338-RPCC services; and how to protect yourself in case of retaliation Rogers Park Community Council. or e-mail to [email protected] and lock-outs. There will also be a brief presentation on

ROGERS PARK 2000 3

OFFICIALLY SPEAKING By Senator Ira I. Silverstein

s your Senator, representing Illinois’ 8th Senatorial state police to check the mental health records in other defacement of property committed against a religious A District, I was able to participate in an exciting ses- states to determine whether the individual has a history of school or place of worship. Governor Ryan signed this bill sion in Springfield, and assisted in passing a signif- mental illness. I believe this is very important, because on July 29, 1999. icant number of bills that effected the District and the we have to try to keep guns away from any individual with After the spring Legislative session in Springfield, I State. I have been assigned to several very important a history of mental illness. Governor Ryan signed this bill conducted four town meetings throughout our District. Senate committees, which impact upon the lives of every- on August 13, 1999. The meetings were well attended and I plan to hold more. one in our community. The committees are the Senate The following proposals that have been signed into I believe it is important for me to reach out to our com- Judiciary, the Senate Licensing and the Senate State law are just a part of the extensive effort to make sure that munity in order to understand the opinions in the District. Government Operations Committees. our schools are safe havens where our children can learn If I can be of any assistance to you regarding State mat- I would like to tell you about some of the key pieces without the threat of violence. Illinois Attorney General ters, or if you see a need for a change in Illinois law, of legislation that the General Assembly dealt with this Jim Ryan's "Safe To Learn" program, which I supported, please do not hesitate to call or write my office. spring. I am very glad to have sponsored the HMO requires the Illinois Violence Prevention Authority to cre- reform bill. As an attorney who deals with many elderly ate and administer a grant program that will help schools Senator Ira I. Silverstein is an attorney and lifelong West individuals, health care is an issue that is important to me. with safety and violence prevention. Nearly $14 million Rogers Park resident. His District office is located at 7344 N. The legislation prohibits gap clauses which some HMO's has been appropriated for pilot prevention projects Western Avenue and telephone number is (773) 743-5015. use to keep doctors from discussing all available treat- around the state as well as metal detectors, additional Illinois 8th Senatorial District includes Rogers Park’s 49th ment options. There are approximately 2.3 million HMO security and educational tools. and 50th Wards, as well as portions of Chicago’s 39th and users in Illinois, so this is a very important bill. It provides The School Firearm Notification Psychological 45th Wards, Skokie and Lincolnwood. for an independent review to help smooth disputes Evaluation requires school officials to report to law between patients, doctors and insurance companies. It enforcement those persons caught with firearms at also allows patients to use the hospital closest to them in school. Additionally, students caught with guns can be cases of emergency. We have a long way to go to help held until psychological evaluations have been adminis- the thousands of Illinois families who rely on HMO's, but tered. The bill increases the penalty for illegal use of this is a first step. Governor George Ryan signed this bill firearms, making it a Class X felony (6-30 years in jail) to on August 19, 1999. fire a weapon on or near school property. It also increas- Farewell Another piece of legislation that I sponsored was es penalties for unlawful sale of firearms to persons under based on an incident in Washington last June. Russell age 21; increases the penalty for minors who use Weston, Jr., fatally wounded two police officers in our firearms; and provides that minors (at least 15 years of Charlie! nation's Capitol. Mr. Weston obtained his Firearm age) charged with aggravated battery with a firearm near Owners Identification (FOID) card in Illinois. a school or school activity will be prosecuted as adults. Unfortunately, he had a record of mental illness in We must give children as well as parents the oppor- ongtime Rogers Park business leader and Oregon. Illinois has a way of checking the mental health tunity to know that our schools are safe places to learn. L owner of Charles Variety, 1512-16 W. Morse, records within the state, however, the state does not have Hopefully, through this legislation, we can begin to stem Charles Salinger, is retiring after 48 years. The the means to check those records in other states. I intro- the tide of violence in our schools. Morse Avenue store served our community for 40 duced legislation that would require that an individual who I also supported Governor Ryan's 15-20-LIFE legis- years, selling a range of products from hardware to applies for a FOID card to sign a waiver, which allows the lation. The Bill adds jail time automatically to sentences clothing and housewares. The changing economy for certain felonies if the crimes are and rising costs related to the business have brought committed with the use of a gun - Charles to the decision to sell and retire. 15 years for possessing a gun, 20 We encourage Charles to enjoy his retirement years for firing a gun, and 25 years and relax! The contributions he has made to the to Life for firing a gun and causing community are many. He has been an active mem- death or great bodily harm. The ber of the Rogers Park Chamber of Commerce, 15-20-LIFE legislation is contained board member of many local organizations and a in Senate Bill 1112. successful local entrepreneur! His hard work and Finally, given the increase in neighborhood concern will be long remembered. hate crimes, I sponsored legislation Charlie, may your past business successes only which enhances the penalties for be a foreshadowing of the success you experience in the theft, robbery, burglary, criminal retirement! damage to property and criminal

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4 ROGERS PARK 2000 Field School Happenings

By Selena Seferovic

ield Elementary School, (7019 N. Ashland) in col- because of the impact of F laboration with Chicago Student at the Center, orga- education and industrializa- nized a unique 7-week ESL (English as a second tion, the picture started language)/Bosnian program for upper grade students and changing from the more their parents. The program brought together Bosnian traditional to modern set- people of three nationalities and religions (Bosniaks-mus- ting and from rural to urban lim, Croats-catholic, Serbs-orthodox). Our purpose was to areas. Members of teach survival skills (especially to newcomers as prepa- Dedajics, Mahmutovics, ration for a new school year) and fundamentals of Jusics, Mandjukics, American society (democracy, Constitution, neighbor- Zenkics, Miloss, Lelics, hood). Comparing the similarities and differences of Ignjatics, Droca, Bekto, Bosnian/American cultures and institutions. Tulics, Ogorinacs, fathers The Social Studies part was particularly important for and sons, mothers and 7th and 8th graders as preparation for the mandatory daughters, different ages Selena Seferovic (far left) and her Bosnian students. Constitution tests in Chicago public schools. Preparation and educational and social for passing the citizenship test (for US residents of more stages, from rural and than 4 years) was also provided. Very soon, some of us urban areas, were learning together. It was very touching gram successfully established school-home connections will have a right to vote and to use and practice the differ- and inspirational to me as a teacher to work with a group and opened the door for future activities. Soon, enthusi- ent fruits of democracy. so aware of the importance of knowing English, and to asm and a kind of relief and openness were present and The interest for the program was unexpectedly high observe their tremendous effort. visible; positive power was felt in spite of a history of hard from both students and parents. Even people who are not Unfortunately, time was too short to cover all the dif- and sad lives. residents of our community wanted to participate and we ferent and important topics. At least, we were able to pro- At the very end of the program, I shared with all of warmly welcomed all of them. This is interesting particu- vide information about what has to be learned. Most them the "Spirit of Rogers Park Award" for Education that larly because this is the first time ever family members importantly, the program broke the barrier between kids I recently received. My special thanks go to Sandi Price were learning together. In former Yugoslavia, there was a and parents, especially between fathers and sons, clearly and the editorial committee of the Rogers Park 2000 traditional hierarchically-structured South Slav patriarchal showing that there is nothing to be ashamed of for fathers (Volume 4, Issue1) who published the article about my family. Status and authority were based largely on sex to be taught English by their own sons. The sons learned 1998 multi-cultural, multi-religious program that was the and seniority, men being predominant. Of course, that this is not a reason to lose respect for their father's role basis for receiving the award. and place in the family. I explained over and I also read the two letters of congratulations that I over using different examples and choosing received from State Senator Arthur L. Berman, and Cook carefully the right words trying not to hurt County Clerk David D. Orr. I would like to publicly thank anybody's feelings. both of them. " Thank you gentlemen very much. This is Adults must go to work soon after com- big support for all of us in the Bosnian community, much ing to the United States to earn money for more than you can even imagine!" It was our common living expenses and keep their self-esteem. conclusion that something similar in our country is almost Kids are learning English at school much unthinkable. Our politicians used to keep themselves easier and faster at a young age. The pro- high on top of the mountains for decades, trying to be untouchable, invisible, far away from ordinary people, acting like walking Gods. But, after the bloody war in Bosnia and with new changes and transition in East / South Europe, we are deeply hoping they will change their old-fashioned attitude and move toward real democracy.

Selena Seferovic was a University assistant profes- sor of South Slavic languages and the literatures of those languages with an MA in Linguistics. She came to the USA with her family as a refugee 4 years ago and was appointed to Field School in February 1998. A journalist and language editor in "Tribina Bosnjaka", a Bosnian community based periodical, Seferovic would like to be able to help the more than 20,000 refugees from Bosnia living in the greater Chicago area.

LINK CARDS ACCEPTED MONDAY–SATURDAY: 8 AM–9 PM, SUNDAY: 9 AM–7 PM

ROGERS PARK 2000 5

From the Director’s Desk By Cary Steinbuck

or those of you who do not work with a non-profit CAPS beat team 2431, local businesses, and neighbor- research, and develop strategies that will allow families F organization, you may not know that there is increas- hood residents. Partnerships have been formed that will from a variety of economic backgrounds to remain in our ing emphasis on organizations to work in partner- result in a community strategy to improve safety and qual- neighborhood. To maintain a community that is diverse ship. Decreasing resources and increasing needs require ity of life offered on this major arterial street. Plans for and offers opportunity is difficult. Representatives from innovative solutions. Non-profits in Rogers Park continue commercial stabilization and development, streetscaping, Family Matters, Good News Partners, Howard Area to lead the way towards developing true collaborations. housing management, safety, and social services are Community Center, Loyola University’s Center for Urban The Rogers Park Youth Network (RPYN) is just one being drafted and will be brought to the community for Research and Learning, Rogers Park Community Action example of how partnerships can work. This summer consideration. Network, and the Rogers Park Community Council are RPYN joined with the Howard Area Community Center’s Rogers Park offers a model for partnership between building a dialogue that can have a large impact on hous- TeenReach program. Each program brings to the table organizations. The Domestic Violence Referral Project ing in the next millennium. different, yet complimentary expertise and resources. works with the Chicago Police Department – 24th District On September 14th, the Task Force will sponsor a This summer, they worked together to offer a host of inno- to assure that there is follow-up to every survivor of a community “charrette” to hear from neighbors their goals vative programs for teens. Other partners include Loyola domestic battery in our community. The RPCC’s Victim for the North of Howard Community. The initiative contin- Park, Warren Park, as well as talented community teach- Advocacy Support Program provides intervention, infor- ues to build neighborhood partnerships to improve the ers and volunteers. mation on the Illinois Domestic Violence Act, and advo- quality of life offered in Rogers Park. The Morse Avenue Task Force is a collaboration cacy to criminal court proceedings in order to obtain an It is an honor to work with so many committed and between the Rogers Park Community Development Order of Protection. Our partner, Friends of Battered knowledgeable community leaders. Working together is Corporation, DevCorp North, the Council for Jewish Women, provides on-going counseling and supportive sometimes difficult, many times frustrating, and always Elderly, Loyola University Chicago, community policing / services. To expand on the partnership, a job-readiness rewarding. Everyday, I learn, evolve, and experience program has been developed between the opportunities and challenges. And everyday is another partner agencies. To date, more than 16 chance to make a difference. women have found employment and are able to provide for their family in a violence- Cary Steinbuck is a Rogers Park resident and serves as free environment. executive director of the Rogers Park Community Council. Rogers Park’s most recent partnership is the Community of Opportunity Affordable Housing Coalition. Neighborhood organiza- tions have come to the table to discuss,

6 ROGERS PARK 2000 Loyola Park Introduces

New Chess Club By Jack Thurston

he children in Barbara Evans' chess club may not level keeps newcomers T have the prodigious talents of Bobby Fisher, but the from getting discouraged, skills they learn through competition, discipline and Evans said. "If a young new strategy will prove to be valuable assets throughout their player loses repeatedly, he entire lives. is likely to shy away from "The discipline is good for the children," said Evans, the game too soon." At the Loyola Park's chess coordinator. "I set game rules that end of the summer, all the must be followed, including no talking at the chess table players participated in a unless it's about chess." tournament and won prizes "I use chess as a tool to eliminate behavior problems such as computerized in some of the children," she said. "Most of the children chess games. These Loyola Park day camp participants put their chess skills to the test. love to play; and they know that if they go around causing "This was the first sum- too much trouble, their playing privileges can be taken mer for the chess club, and away. It's very effective." it was really a success," said Loyola Park Supervisor free Halloween party on Saturday, October 30, from 10:30 Evans also uses chess as a tool for positive rein- Mary Hopkins. "The kids love playing chess and have a.m. - 12 noon. forcement. "When the children try hard and study the new taken a real liking to Mrs. Evans. We have already incor- For more information about fall programs at Loyola techniques and tips I am trying to teach them, the next porated this program into our year-round programming." Park, 1230 W. Greenleaf, stop by the park or call (312) day I'll bring in some candy or potato chips for them to Other new classes offered at Loyola Park this fall 742-7857. snack on," said Evans. include Japanese braiding (Kumihimo), volleyball, and Students are placed in one of three categories: wood shop for adults; and the art of doll making and cre- beginner, intermediate or advanced. Grouping by skill ating stuffed animals for children. Watch for Loyola Park's Volunteer Shares Computer Knowledge at

Berger Park By Jack Thurston

olunteers across the city help keep parks cleaner, "If you want to get V coach leagues and generally share their time and involved in the computer skills with patrons and park staff. Thanks to repeat revolution, but you are volunteer Jack Winans, Berger Park, 6205 N. Sheridan intimidated by computers, Road, is helping patrons of all ages get better acquainted this class is for you. Before with computers. long, you'll be doing things About 75 day-campers frequented his computer with your computer you classes this past summer. Winans teaches a variety of never thought possible," programs, including Microsoft Word, Excel, Works on Winans said. Windows 3.1, Windows 95 and DOS 3.1. "Most of these Classes meet once a kids do not even know what a mouse is," Winans said. week on Monday, Tuesday, "I'm trying to teach them how to operate basic programs Wednesday or Friday from 1 and teach them the mechanics of a computer. It is a great to 2 p.m. class for children who have a computer and need to learn The Chicago Park how to use it." District is always looking for Most of the computer equipment has been donated to new volunteers for a variety the program over the last couple of years by local business- of programs and events. If es, community members and the Chicago Park District. you are interested in Winans also teaches adult computer classes. "Most becoming a volunteer, head Children at Berger Park test out their new computer skills as adults who are unfamiliar with basic computer use are afraid over to your local park or call the Volunteer Hotline at volunteer instructor Jack Winans watches on. to touch the keyboard; they feel as though they'll break it if (312) 747-1491. For more information about programs they touch it," he said. "I break them in and make them feel and activities at the Berger Park Cultural Center, please comfortable behind the controls of their computer." stop by or call (312) 742-7871 for more details. Indian Boundary Park Focuses Talents on Cultural Programs

By Larra Clark and Pat Welsh

ver the past year, new staff at Indian Boundary Park, Saturday Evening Jazz Cafe: "Dueling Altos" O 2500 W. Lunt, have been selected for their experi- Saturday, September 18th, 8 - 10 p.m. ence in the arts to revitalize this location as a cultur- Ages 18 years and over. $5 donation al center. As part of this effort, Indian Boundary Park is offering a cultural alternative to the Park Kids after-school Two One-Acts: "Sure Thing" & "Actor's Nightmare" program. New after-school classes are offered in theatre, Friday, October 8th, 8 - 10 p.m. dance, music, arts and crafts, and yoga. Individual class- Saturday, October 9th, 8 - 10 p.m. es are offered, as opposed to the traditional Park Kids Sunday, October 10th, 3 - 5 p.m. rotation format. Ages 18 years and over. $5 donation Parents in the Rogers Park community seeking the Park Kids program can find it close to home at Loyola Halloween Party & Show Park, 1230 W. Greenleaf, Pottawattomie Park, 7340 N. Saturday, October 30th Rogers, and the Broadway Armory Park, 5917 N. 3 to 4:30 p.m. Broadway. All ages. Free! "People are responding so positively to all of our changes," said Indian Boundary Park Supervisor, Joe Teen Production Savino. "Our Saturday Evening Jazz Cafes have been Saturday, November 6th, 7:30 - 8 p.m. & very successful and I'm looking forward to all of the per- Sunday, November 7th, 3 - 4 p.m. formances we have coming up this fall." All ages. $3 donation The teen improvisation troupe "Lozenge" and the jazz cafe series feature community residents who are Winter Solstice Neighborhood Celebration donating their time and talents to help raise money for Saturday, December 11th, 7 - 8:30 p.m. new lighting and sound equipment at the park. All ages. $2 donation. "We hope everyone will join us throughout the year as we continue to become the center for cultural pro- Storytelling, poetry and music will greet winter. A gramming in the north region," Savino said. A sampling of special highlight for the evening will be the feature upcoming special events is listed below. Please stop by performance of the Chamber Orchestra of the or call the park at (312) 742-7887 for more information. Chicago Symphony Orchestra.

ROGERS PARK 2000 7 Parks Make Great Halloween Haunts

alling all witches, goblins, ghosts and superheroes! Put on your best costume and C head over to the park for a variety of fun family events for Halloween. The Rogers Park community is packed with parties and special offerings like the Pumpkin Patch at Warren Park. The Pumpkin Patch will feature pony rides, pumpkin decorating, petting zoo, hay rides, face painting and games. Or head out to the Haunted Trails at Peterson Park in North Park Village, 5801 N. Pulaski for a bigger scare. Please call parks for admission prices and details.

October 22 & 23, 29 & 30 October 29 CHIPPEWA PARK PETERSON PARK BROADWAY ARMORY PARK 6758 N. Sacramento 5801 N. Pulaski 5917 N. Broadway (312) 742-7867 (312) 742-7584 (312) 742-7502 4 to 5 p.m. Haunted Trails 4 to 6 p.m.

Halloween revelers

EMMERSON PARK SCHREIBER PARK LOYOLA PARK 1820 W. Granville 1552 W. Schreiber 1230 W. Greenleaf (312) 742-7877 (312) 742-7876 (312) 742-7857 5 to 6 p.m. 4:30 to 6:30 p.m. 10:30 a.m. to 12 noon

POTTAWATTOMIE PARK TOUHY PARK PASCHEN PARK 7340 N. Rogers 7348 N. Paulina 1932 W. Lunt (312) 742-7878 (312) 742-7870 (312) 742-7865 4 to 5 p.m. 5 to 6 p.m. 1 to 3 p.m. October 30 ROGERS PARK October 31 7345 N. Washtenaw INDIAN BOUNDARY WARREN PARK (312) 742-7859 2500 W. Lunt 6601 N. Western 4 to 6 p.m. (312) 742-7887 (312) 742-7888 3 to 4:30 p.m. Pumpkin Patch Warren Park’s Pumpkin Patch 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Pardon Our Dust...North Side Parks Are Under

Construction By Pat Welsh

everal parks in the Rogers Park community are Schreiber Playground, S experiencing growing pains this fall as we improve 1552 W. Schreiber Ave., is our properties. being expanded by almost Broadway Armory Park, 5917 N. Broadway, is the one-third. The field house is Chicago Park District's largest indoor recreational facility. being rehabilitated, and a One of our newest acquisitions, the Armory is due for new path system, basket- extensive building improvements. Work will take place ball courts, a passive land- from top to bottom starting with the roof this September. scaped area and ornamen- After this project is complete, parking lot construction and tal fencing and lighting are landscaping will begin. being developed. Pottawattomie Park, 7340 N. Rogers Ave., continues Completion is scheduled for its renovations with new landscaping in the front and rear October. Community mem- of the fieldhouse. New trees also will be added. The pro- bers wishing to view the ject is due to be complete by September. plans can visit Alderman Rogers Park, 7345 N. Washtenaw Ave., will begin Patrick O'Connor (40th construction of a small building in September. Based on Ward) office at 5850 N. community input, the new structure will contain bath- Lincoln Ave. (773) 769- rooms and a small meeting room. This amenity will allow 1140. for greater use of the outdoor fields and basketball courts Construction at Schreiber Park. on weekends and evenings when Rogers Park School is not being used for programming. Paschen Park Wrestlers Receive National Awards

wo wrestlers from the Paschen Park Wrestling Team T came home from the USA National Greco-Roman and freestyle wrestling championship in Waterloo, Iowa, big winners this summer. Jeremy Perry (right) finished first in Greco Roman and third in freestyle, while Donatello Barrett (left) fin- ished fifth in Greco-Roman. Both wrestlers received All American Honors. Congratulations!

8 ROGERS PARK 2000 Howard Theatre Apartments Ready By Lorraine Dostal

ay Johnson's renovation of the Howard Theatre is um view". Studios range in J near completion. Sixteen apartments in the east size from 425 square feet wing of the building are now available. The retail to 560 square feet - quite spaces on Howard Street have new windows and spacious. The units on the improved interiors. New retail tenants will be moving in west adjacent to the el within the next few months. Work is progressing on the have triple glazed windows west wing and the new loft apartments located in the cen- to reduce the noise level. ter of the building over the old theater lobby. All apart- Kitchens are equipped with ments will be completed and available for rental by mid- white Euro-style cabinets September. and Kenmore stoves and When completed, the property will offer 12 studio refrigerators. Hardwood apartments ($400-525 per month), 24 one-bedroom floors have been installed apartments ($540-695 per month), and 4 two-bedroom and bedrooms are carpet- apartments ($695 per month). These are "affordable ed. These are very attrac- housing" units targeted to households with annual tive apartments. incomes between $22,000 and $32,000. Ten units will be Jay Johnson says, "It "handicapped adaptable" having large bathrooms is very exciting to see this equipped with grab bars and kitchens planned for wheel- first completed project in chair access. A residential elevator located in a secured the rejuvenation of Howard lobby area serves all apartments. Parking is available at Street." the rear of the building (off Ashland) for residents and commercial customers. Lorraine Dostal, long- The Howard Theatre Apartments are quite interest- time Rogers Park resident is ing in that many different floor plans are available. The a member of the Board of Directors of the Rogers Park loft units on the south face of the building have balconies. Community Council, as well as a member of the Rogers Park The loft units on the north face have "decks" and an "atri- 2000 Editorial Committee. Alderman Joe Moore Announces Staff Changes in 49th Ward Service Office

lderman Joe Moore would like to announce staffing changes in the 49th Ward Committee. He will work on development and zoning issues. Lopez has been a CAPS A Service Office. As many of you who read Rogers Park 2000 already know, long- organizer in the Rogers Park community for the past two years and will continue to work time Chief of Staff Charese Jordan has accepted a position as Public & Community on police and public safety issues as a member of Alderman Moore's staff. "I'm very Relations Manager at Bethany Hospital. Kevin Cosgrove, who will continue to focus on excited that I was able to hire two people who have so much prior experience in the housing-related issues while overseeing office operations, has assumed the Chief of Rogers Park community," said Alderman Moore. Staff position. Alicia Ivy also remains on staff with a focus on service and infrastructure 49th Ward Service office hours are Monday - Tuesday - Thursday (9am to 6pm), matters such as streetlights, signs, potholes and clogged sewer drains. Wednesday (9am to 7pm) and Friday (9am to 5pm). The telephone number is (773) 338- Joining the 49th Ward Service Office staff are Michael Land and Alicia Lopez. Land 5796. Messages may be left on voice mail during non-business hours. Constituents are comes to the office from LaSalle Bank's Rogers Park branch and has worked with our also encouraged to call the City of Chicago's new Service Request Hotline at 311. local chamber of commerce, DevCorp North and with the Howard Street Landscape

ROGERS PARK 2000 9 Housing Opportunities By Alderman Joseph Moore

hat will Rogers Park look like in 10 years? In 20 ever rehabilitation costs that are needed. W years? What kind of community do we want to Renters have no say in the amount of the live in? To raise children in? These questions are rent increase and many (if not most) are being discussed throughout our community about the forced to look for a new apartment. I believe future of housing in Rogers Park. that increasing opportunities for home own- The question is one of vision. I envision a communi- ership is the best chance for our families to ty that offers hope, opportunity and diversity. The fact is gain stability. that our actions today will have long-lasting impact on our Current condominium conversions are neighborhood and the future of Rogers Park. seeing record sales prices. Two-bedroom Recently there has been a lot of activity in Rogers condos in Rogers Park sold (on average) for Park's housing market -- and no area of our community $80,000 just two years ago. Today, that has experienced more change than the north of Howard same unit sells at $125,000. Many families neighborhood. Plans are moving forward to build "high- are not able to afford $1200 a month in end" townhouses and condo's on the Sheridan Road housing expenses (including mortgage, property formerly occupied by Juneway Shell. There assessments, and taxes). It is my goal to have been several conversions of 6-unit rental buildings encourage development that will provide for into market rate condominiums. Renovation of the a broad range of family incomes. Howard Theater is near completion. Three buildings have I have asked the City of Chicago to been razed to expand Kiwanis Park and link it to Gale assess housing programs that can assist School. Property sale prices are becoming equal to our community with its goal of increasing prices in the rest of Rogers Park. Change is happening stability and offering opportunities to our and community leaders are working to assure that families. Over the coming months, we will changes continue to offer opportunity. There are as many be reviewing these programs and planning opinions of what should happen as there are changes. for our future. I look forward to working with Throughout our Nation, leaders talk about the need you to build a stronger Rogers Park. to build mixed-income communities. No where is this goal Joe Moore has served as 49th Ward more possible than in Rogers Park. We are and can Alderman for the last 9 years. He can be reached remain an example of a neighborhood that offers oppor- at the Ward office at (773) 338-5796. tunities to individuals and families from all backgrounds. Our people come from all ethnic, religious, and econom- ic backgrounds. Our housing is diverse - single family homes, condominiums, as well as large and small apart- ment buildings In most cases, when a rental building sells to a new owner - rents go up - a lot. The new owner must pay a new large mortgage, increased property taxes, and what-

*Loyola Copy Center *Manufacturer’s Bank RE/MAX NorthCoast Realty * Stanley H. Kaplan Learning Center

10 ROGERS PARK 2000

September, 1999 Project JAM! By Juan Moya and Marie Espeut

roject JAM! Is a kind of program that is fun P for kids. Project JAM comes from the name given by the students. JAM stands for Jordan After-School Magic. During the summer we also have Project JAM. We do many fun things like going to the beach, going to the park, doing art with Ms. Martin, visiting the Harold Washington Library and most importantly reading and writing by writing an article for Rogers Park 2000. We have lots of fun but we also work. Many of the students who participate in Project This is a picture of Jordan After-School JAM have been involved since the program Magic at the beach. Kids are playing in the water. They are having fun. began three years ago. We come at 9:15 to 12:30 then sometimes we have dictionary races for money. Project JAM happens Monday through Friday. We play in the gym and at the park. It is always fun to be outside. In Project JAM every Tuesday we go to the beach. We have gone to Washington beach, Loyola Park Beach ad North Avenue Beach. We go into the water and we play games in the In this picture, everybody from JAM is smiling, and I am water. Then, we get out and we usually go back saying “cheese.” to school. Sometimes, we go to a restaurant. Project JAM is saying “cheese” at the beach! Every Friday we go downtown to Harold Washington Library to see plays or shows. We have seen a yo-yo man, two brothers who per- formed children's poetry, a play about science and the parts of the universe and a play with marionettes. During Project JAM sometimes we go to Pottawattomie Park and play games and We were playing “ring-around-the-rosie, we all go swings. We play All Ball in the gym and some- down.” We all went down and I stayed the longest. times we play Kickball. During class we work on writing articles for the Rogers Park 2000 newspaper. We came up with ideas for the articles, we interviewed teachers and students and members of the community, and then we started writing drafts. We had to go home and look up a word that Mr. Bowman had given us and we got money for prizes. Sometimes the students wrote paragraphs about something and we traded This is a picture of Project JAM at the downtown beach. papers and read it to see if what they wrote As you can see, the skyline is behind them. They’re sitting on the sand and towels. was correct. We did other proof reading activities. Sometimes we would have to read a book or just finish the newspaper article. In Project JAM we have fun everyday. We also meet new friends.

Newspaper production Participants Peter told the kids to bury him under the sand. They buried him deep under the sand. Daisy Coronel Omar Enriquez Calivn Espeut Phillip Hall Britney Rutheford Peter Kerizareth Lilia Luengas Tamacdra Dickson Desmond Kettle Deon Smith Mitzi Coronel This is Peter, the boy Marie Espeut we buried under Gualdelupe Juan Moya the sand. He is smiling and having fun. Cardenas Lazerrick Hereford Chelsea Baxter Diana Kerizareth Paul Hall Sehlone Teah Samantha Biamby Tyree Crosby Tyesha Rutheford

NEW Rogers Park Supermarket Library By Britney Rutheford By Paul Hall

here is a new library in Rogers Park. It opened on ustomers at the Jewel on Howard and Western may T June 8, 1999. It is located in Rogers Park on 6907 C be in store for a big change. There will be a meeting North Clark Street. They decided to build a new on August 4 to determine whether the store stays library in 1997 because the other one was too small. open or closes. No one knows what will happen, even the The new library is a big, two story brick building full of store manager. over 60,000 books. When I walk in the doors of the library "I have no idea if the store is going to be rebuilt or there is a desk where the librarians stand. Downstairs closed down," said Beth Melzer, general manager of there is a children's section where they have smaller Jewel. "This store is old so I'm not sure. tables and chairs and all children's books on the shelves. One of the customers said, "I don't know why the They have tapes of books that you can listen to. There are store would close, because they're always busy." Senior red tables and some of them have computers on them. citizens make the store busy a lot. If the store closes it Upstairs there is a computer that shows you where all the will be hard for the older citizens that don't have cars. "If books are when you type in the name of the book. it is far I would have to take a bus," said one older cus- There are many different kinds of people in the tomer. "[This location] is more convenient for senior citi- library. About 200 people come to the library daily. Some zens," said citizen of Rogers Park. are from the United States and some people are from dif- If Jewel closes down there is going to be another ferent countries and speak different languages. There are problem, because there can't be another store built there old and young people. for five years. The community will start to move to differ- People read books in the library. They go on the com- ent areas because there is nowhere to shop for food, so puter to do work or to play. They do their homework the citizens might abandon the community. "If you because they know that the library will be quiet. They read remove the basic food store the community starts desta- magazines and listen to stories. The librari- bilizing," said Inez Macko, an urban planner. an said preschoolers can watch videos. Rogers Park Library has a multimedia computer which children can use every half an hour. The kids can play games and print Safety at out pictures. If you want to use Internet you have to make an appointment at the refer- ence desk. Jordan School To check out books you need a library card. To get a library card you go up to the front desk and ask for an application. When By Guadelupe Cardenas you fill it out they ask you if you had a library card and if you say no they give you a free one. You can check out thirty books at one ur group interviewed Officer Renee Cortas. It was time. You can check out the books for 21 interesting to talk to her and she told me about her O days. If you don't follow the rules you will get job. a charge on your record. For example she took a test to become a police offi- The Rogers Park Library is open every cer. She has always wanted to be a police officer. She day except Sunday. Monday through has been working for three years. She never saved any- Thursday it is open from 9 a.m. until 9 p.m. one but is still working hard. She got hurt for trying to On Friday and Saturday it is open from 9 arrest someone. She has drawn her gun but she hasn't a.m. until 5 p.m. ever shot anyone. She has two partners, their names are If you like to read the library is a good Roger and Lorenzo. She doesn't go to court every day place to go. See you there! and she has broken her arm once or twice. She works in the 20th District. Her car is #2051. She shares it with her partners. They go around seeing if anything is wrong. She does not go on a motorcycle because they are bro- ken, but the District is trying to fix them. She seems nice and kind to talk to. She will listen and not give mean looks to anyone. We found out that she loves children and if she weren't a police officer she would be a teacher.Ms. Renee is a single woman and does not eat a lot of donuts. On her free time she will either ride her bike or read, or sleep or paint pictures of the ocean. At Jordan School, Ms. Renee will be working four hours and will go around the school to find out everything and try to know everyone's names. She will try to keep the school safer, and whoever has something that they're not supposed to have in the school she will report it. She will do her best to make our school safe. Teacher Profile

By Deon Smith

e interviewed a teacher from Jordan School to W find out more about who she is and what she does at Jordan school. Mrs. Owens was born in February. She has three brothers and one sister that died. She went to Taft High School. Mrs. Owens went to Northeastern Illinois University. She always wanted to become a teacher. She began teaching at Armstrong Elementary School. She came to Jordan when it first opened in 1993. She was excited when she came to Jordan. In summer school she teaches third grade and has fif- teen students in her class. Her students are very nice. She has fun teaching her class most of the time. She mainly teaches math and reading. Her favorite subject is math. Mrs. Owens said that summer school lasts for six weeks. During the year she teaches second grade. She is still going to work at Jordan during the 1999-2000 school year. She will move up with her class and teach third grade. Mrs. Owens teaches with a new assistant teacher at Jordan school whose name is Ms. Pool. Mrs. Owens' favorite color is black. Mrs. Owens is a very nice teacher. Mrs. Owens is an important teacher at Jordan School.

12 ROGERS PARK 2000 Four World Cultures Exhibit Their Holiday Traditions at the Winter Open House at North Lakeside Cultural Center

The art, music and traditions of the Greek Dodecameron, Swedish Jul, African-American Kwanzaa and Filipino Paskohan were represented in last year’s Open House. The Center’s “long gallery” at left featured the stories of the four cultures’ Holiday traditions.

The Hellenic Choral Society directed by Georgia Mitchell performed in the living room of the historic mansion the traditional songs of a Greek Christmas.

Musician Kelan Phil Koran performed the sounds of the African American Holiday tradition “Kwanzaa” symbolized by fruits of the Harvest repre- senting unity, pur- pose,

Members of the Greek community view the artist- made objects of the Filipino-American exhibit. In the window, the traditional “Parol” represents the Star of Evangeline Bethlehem (left). A creche made with the materials Mistaras (right) native to the Philippine Islands created by artist Willi and a friend of Buhay (right) was exhibited along with the works of the Hellenic five other Filipino-American artists. Museum exhibit the traditional Greek Holiday banquet in the mansion’s period dining room.

Members of the Filipino-American Sinag-Tala Choir perform in their The Swedish Jul native Tagalog curated by the language Songs Swedish American of the Holiday in Museum featured the Philippine the grann (tree), Islands. decorated with straw ornaments, julbock (Christmas goat) and Lucia lights.

ROGERS PARK 2000 13 Holiday Diversity By Mary Tatro

he Holiday art, music and tradition of four cultures pranks and tricks such as spilled milk, disappearing keys, town with her court, bearing a tray with mugs of hot cof- T was presented in an Open House at North Lakeside etc. It is common to blame mishaps at this time of the year fee and Lucia buns (lussekatter). They sing the traditional Cultural Center last year on the first weekend of on the kalikantzari. Fire, light and holy water protect peo- Sicilian carol "Santa Lucia." The oldest record of a Lucia December: the Swedish Jul, Filipino Paskohan, Greek ple from the kalikantzari. procession in Stockholm dates to 1655. Dodecameron and African-American Kwanzaa. The most popular New Year's custom is the cutting of Another symbol of Christmas is the straw goat The Holiday 1999 Open House, December 4th and the Vasilopita (bread for St. Basil). The Vasilopita com- (Julbock). The boys of a village used to pose as beggars 5th at the restored lakeside Mansion will feature four memorates a miracle performed by St. Basil. He recov- (lussegubbar) for the night. They would go out with a figure more examples of the community's cultural diversity. The ered the lost gold, silver and jewelry of the people of in a black shaggy fur coat with a buck's head. That figure cross cultural understanding that comes by way of the Caesarea and became responsible for returning the rich- was none other than the devil himself, brought round in arts is energized during the Holiday season because it's es to the people. However, they could not agree on right- chains and conquered by Saint Nicholas. Today, the shag- a time of celebration and joy. The common language spo- ful owners. St. Basil suggested that the women bake the gy devil has been replaced by a decorative straw goat. ken through the art, music and winter Holiday traditions valuables inside a large pita. When he cut the pita, each This Christmas Eve smorgasbord feast features brings a sense of being in a great human family. owner miraculously received the right valuable. Today a warm meats, particularly the Christmas ham, potato The economic, social, political and educational dif- single coin is baked inside each loaf to honor this miracle, sausage, blood sausage, herring in several varieties and ferences that divide people can be further complicated by and the recipient has good luck for the coming year. lutfisk. A peculiarity of the Scandinavian palate, lutfisk is differences of language and culture. There are few places The holiday season ends with the feast of the a dried cod, which has been soaked in lye. The lye is where there is common ground. The language of the arts Epiphany or Theophania (God appears). It ranks after washed from the fish. It is softened, baked and served provides that common ground. It is why this is so impor- Easter and Christmas in importance. The faithful receive with a cream sauce. Then, tradition demands that there tant a time of year for sharing some of the traditions that the blessed holy water on January 5th, Eve of be seven kinds of sweets on the table (sju molts kakor). create culture. At the Winter Holidays, those traditions are Theophania (Lesser Blessing of the Water); January 6th, When the smorgasbord has been eaten, the children wait abundantly represented in the hand-made objects, songs, Theophania (Greater Blessing of the Water); and January for Jultomten, the Christmas elf to arrive. The tomte is the music, foods, stories, and rituals that have been played 7th, Feast Day of St. John the Baptist. magical figure who guards the farmyard all year, and out for centuries and carried on in the homes of families whose goodwill is sought by leaving a bowl of rice pud- celebrating privately. The Christmas celebration of the Philippine Islands, ding with an almond in it. Without the gift to the tomte, North Lakeside Cultural Center has opened its doors called Paskohan, is said to be the longest observance of Christmas might not happen. Finally the tomte comes, to publicly exhibit a selection each year of some of the the Holiday in the world. The season begins November asking "Finns det nagra smalla barn har?" (Are there any arts and traditions shared in the homes of Rogers Park's 2nd, just after the Day of the Dead, and ends with the nice children here?) richly diverse neighborhoods. Artists come to the Center Feast of the Candlelight Mass, Nustra Senora de la Luz, Swedes generally bring the tree into the house near to display and sell their works. Musicians perform the February 2nd. The celebration is a mosaic of Spanish tra- to Christmas Day, and keep the tree decorated and lit Holiday music, and the stories describing how it all came ditions (the result of the 375-year Spanish rule from 1521 each night until the 20th day of Christmas, called "tju- to pass are told and retold. to 1896); and the ethnic traditions of the 121 tribes of the gondag Knut," the 20th of Knut. On that day the family Last year, the Hellenic Museum and Cultural Center, Islands combined with American ideas. dances around the tree one last time, and celebrates a the Filipino-American Historical Society of Chicago, and The "Panunuluyan," or the "Knocking at the Inn," final party, "julgransplundring," or Christmas Tree the Swedish American Museum Center collaborated to coincides with the search for a Christ Child birthplace. On Plundering. All the remaining sweets that have decorated bring their arts, music and traditions to the Center for the the nine nights from December 16th through December the tree are found and eaten, the paper and straw deco- weekend event. They were joined with a display of the 24th, a designated Mary and Joseph couple go from rations are removed for another year, and the tree is African-American Holiday tradition, Kwanzaa, presented house to house in the village. Each visit brings food and removed. by community resident and musicologist Kelan Phil coins that are brought to the church, where, on the final With the gay decorations removed from the house, Choran. eve, there is music and chanting as the couple arrives at the family moves into the somber period of anticipation the birthplace. There, the food and coins are shared with and waiting for Spring, which in Scandinavia is many dark The Kwanzaa observance celebrated today in African- the celebrants. months away. American families was inspired by the first celebration in On December 25th, the Misa de Aguinaldo, the Mass 1966 in California. It was created by UCLA Professor Dr. of Gifts, ends with an exchange of gifts at midnight. Mary Tatro is Executive Director of the North Lakeside Ron Kerenga to focus African-American direction and pur- Christmas Day is a day of food and community. Families Cultural Center. She is a former university communications pose by identifying unifying values. It came to the Chicago open their houses and offer food and drink to all who visit. director, business communications consultant and journalist. area in 1969 and spread to be celebrated today by more Traditional drinks of the day are tuba, or coconut wine, than 18 million people nationwide. The name, Kwanzaa, is and lambanog, rice wine. During the celebration, the Swahili meaning first fruits of the Harvest. In the Kwanzaa hands of the elders are kissed in a ritual named, the observance, children are celebrated as the Harvest cher- "mano po ninong." Home decorations are similar to ished in African-American homes. American traditions: the Kwanzaa celebrates seven principles: unity, self- tree, the Nativity scenes, determination, collective work and responsibility, cooper- gingerbread houses, ative economics, purpose, creativity and faith. The seven Christmas stockings, principles of Kwanzaa are represented in the Mishumaa apples and nuts, Santa Saba, the seven candles lighted in the progress of the Claus and reindeer. But the seven days of Kwanzaa from December 26th to January Parol is one decorative ele- 1st. The candleholder, the Kinara, presents the seven ment unique to the candles, one black candle in the center, three red candles Philippine tradition. It is a to the left and three green candles to the right. The large lantern that is set out Kikombe Cha Umoja, or unity cup, is used to pour the cer- for the duration of the emonial drink honoring the ancestors and reaffirming Holiday. The star lantern, or family unity. A place mat, the Mkeka, is a foundation for Parol, is lit in every home the symbols. It represents tradition, the ground from and represents the Star of which life is grown. Fruits and vegetables are arranged Bethlehem. together with the other symbols to represent wholesome The Tatlong Hari food and the need for a quality diet. An ear of corn for (Three Kings) Epiphany tra- each child in the family honors reproductivity. On the sev- dition, January 6th, allows enth day comes Karamu Y Imani, or the Fest of Faith, children to ask for their when the whole community comes together to reaffirm wishes. They bring their their faith in the Creator and one another. shoes to the window before bedtime and awaken to find The Greek Orthodox tradition combines the holidays money, candies and fruits. of Christmas, New Year, and Epiphany into the period The Feast ends February called the Dodecameron. It starts with Christmas on 2nd with the observance of December 25th and ends January 6th with the Epiphany. the Nuestra Senora de la The Orthodox tradition involves fasting and reflection Luz, or Virgin of Light cere- before the Christmas feast. The story of the Annunciation mony, with a candlelight to the Virgin Mary, the journey with Joseph to Bethlehem, Mass. The observance cele- and the birth of Jesus in a stable is retold each year. brates the spiritual light in On Christmas Eve Day in Greece, young people car- the darkness during the rying triangles, small drums, and harmonicas, go from darkest months of the year. house to house, singing the Kalanda (carols) about the birth of Christ. They carry small ships of cardboard, wood Swedish Christmas or tin to honor St. Basil who came to Greece by sea to (Jul) begins with the cele- bring presents to the children. Decorated with the Greek bration of Saint Lucia, flag, the ships hold the sweets and money given to the December 13th. Lucia, the carolers. patron saint of light marks An old folk belief in Greece holds that mischievous the beginning of the return goblins called kalikantzari appear during the of the sun. Today the day is Dodecameron. The kalikantzari live beneath the surface celebrated all over Sweden, of the earth and chop away at a large tree trunk, the foun- and among most Swedish dation of the earth. With their chopping they attempt to Americans. On December destroy God's work. They almost succeed when they hear 13, the white clad Lucia, a the noise created by the birth of Christ. They come to crown of lit candles on her earth on December 25th to disrupt people's lives with head, processes through

14 ROGERS PARK 2000 Gateway Plaza and Howard Street Progress

By Ken Govas

ateway is being built. As most of you know, the last new Kiwanis Park and G few weeks has seen a rush of construction and Community Center is being progress at Gateway Plaza. The Dominick’s store built as part of a new Gale scheduled to open later this year is being built at a quick Academy campus. All of pace and it’s great to see. The former Northshore LaSalle this building and revitaliza- Bank building has been demolished in preparation for tion adds up to a new retail construction and parking. Negotiations with the CTA Howard Street for Rogers related to this Howard L Stop project seem to be on a Park. very positive track right now and so, all in all, the progress In addition to the con- this summer has been very positive. This will allow for the struction on site, many of theater and other related retail and parking to be built and you have noticed the infra- opened in the next phase early in 2001. structure work being done It should be mentioned that the Howard Theater pro- on Rogers and Clark, ject (a combination of retail and housing development which includes major sewer east of the Howard L Stop) is targeted for completion improvements. All of this before the end of this year. And just down the street, the leads me to say “pardon the dust and tem- porary traffic snags” but there is some price for new development and progress. It is also a good to see our aging of commissioners who are Howard Street business infrastructure needs being replaced on an owners and property owners. These owners are taxing ongoing basis. We know these projects will themselves for extra service on Howard Street. The happen in the Rogers Park area constantly. money pays for a SSA manager who helps to coordinate Also early next year Howard Street is services and programs like cleaning/snow removal, scheduled for renovation and improvement lightpole banners, merchant promotions, such as holiday between Ridge and the Howard L Stop. coupon and discount books, and just about anything Shortly thereafter, a second phase of else that they deem beneficial to their business strip streetscaping and renovation will occur and the community. between the L Stop and Sheridan Rd. All of this work is thanks to the Evanston/Rogers Ken Govas has been executive director of DevCorp Park Partnership that is spearheaded by the North, the commercial development corporation and cham- Howard Street Redevelopment Committee, ber of commerce for Rogers Park since November 1998. which includes representatives from govern- Prior to that he was the executive director of the Industrial ment, business and citizens of Rogers Park Council of Northwest Chicago and has also worked in fair and Evanston. housing and private industry for a food processing company. These improvements dovetail nicely with the ongoing street cleaning and snow removal efforts provided by the Howard Street Special Service Area (SSA). The SSA is a private public/quasi governmental body

Tanya and Oleg Dimitrov, both graduates of BIR Training Center, 3601 W. Devon, received the 1999 Excellence Award for Outstanding Achievement. They were selected for this honor by the Board of the Workforce Development Council of Northern Cook County.

YOUTH STUFF By Norman Polk

Youth Intervention Program Specialist, Alex Schwartz, responded to a need present- The Rogers Park Community Council's (RPCC) Youth ed to us during classroom presentations. The girls group Intervention Program is going small. That's no misprint or addressed issues identified by the 11 to 14 year olds. play on words. The sports program will begin this fall for Topics like relationships, sexuality, hygiene and self- girls and boys between the ages of 11 to 14. Our summer esteem were explored. The group concluded with a trip fun camp was a complete success and we will continue for lunch to the "Old Country Buffet" to practice table eti- the fun (see summer fun camp on page 1). Youth quette. (As some of you may know, etiquette doesn't Intervention Programs will include boys and girls group, count at the Old Country Buffet, so everyone passed.) conflict resolution groups, and an activities committee that plans all the fun stuff like field trips, parties and much Congratulations to the more. We will continue to provide individual, and family Graduating Classes of '99 services to those who are in need of counseling. We had hoped to acknowledge all of the graduates in Rogers Park but that was not possible. Instead we chose GameTime the graduates from Eugene Field School and gave them As part of the successful Rogers Park Youth Network, our a party. With the help of eighth grade teacher Ms. Boys Basketball League took off this summer. We grew Thompson, invitations were given to each student in eight from 7 to 14 teams with the help of Loyola Park (1230 W. grade. Needless to say a good time was had by all. Greenleaf). Thanks to park supervisor Mary Hopkins and recreation leader Reggie Brown, we were able to provide New Stuff organized sports for 140 male youth. We also partnered This fall we will be inviting all middle school teams to par- with the park to provide co-ed volleyball to park kids and ticipate in our "GameTime Invitational". The Tournament YouthNet members. will give the Rogers Park Community Council the oppor- tunity to provide prevention services to these athletes on Prevention gang awareness, drug education and conflict resolution The Prevention Program concluded a very successful 22- training. We are working towards providing services in week program at Kilmer School, (6700 N. Greenview). each elementary school in Rogers Park. Drug and Conflict resolution education was provided to sixth, seventh and eighth graders. We were also able to Norman Polk is the Youth Intervention Director at the Rogers establish a girls group with the help of the school's coun- Park Community Council. selor, Ms. Castro. Castro and RPCC's Prevention

16 ROGERS PARK 2000 Rogers Park Garden Walk Blooms, Bushes and Bulbs By Carol Goldman

ogers Park is a unique community in Chicago. Its in previous years. R location directly on the shore of Lake Michigan, with RPCC thanks the Garden Walk Committee and those full access to the lake, is unequaled in the city. It is gardeners in Rogers Park who opened their gardens for also a unique laboratory of city gardening ideas. From the whole neighborhood to enjoy. Committee members shade gardens to community plantings on a tree lawn, are Co-Chairs Lorraine Olsen and Millie Hansen, and vol- from ponds to perennial gardens riotous with color, unteers Sharon Harvey, Deborah Nolte, Andrea Graham Rogers Park has many prime examples. Many gardens and Pamela Van Giessen are hidden away in back yards, but many are right up front for all to enjoy whether walking or driving by. The following people shared their beautiful gardens: On an absolutely perfect day, the Rogers Park * Fran and Greg Reimer Community Council (RPCC) held its fifth Annual Garden * Craig Segelin and Harvey Paula Walk on Sunday, July 11th. Over 200 people enjoyed the * Don Collins sunshine, temperatures in the 70's and a lake breeze as * Regas and Kathleen Chefas they walked from one breathtaking garden to another. * Sherri Schmidt The walk was the most successful to date. The * John and Sharon Harvey and Deborah Nolte Garden Walk featured 25 outstanding home gardens, * Mildred Reed front landscaping and backyards. There were 14 new gar- * Lorraine Olsen dens to be seen, as well as 11 which had been on the tour * Andrea Graham * Mr. & Mrs. Juan Vanaga * Jannelle Brittain * Dan Dooley * Johan and Pamela Van Giessen * Bluma Cannon and Deb Kezcar * Melton Aktas * Alex Swenson and Mark Farr * Alexandra Nelson and William Chin * Kim Carlson and Jim Nevins * Carl Anderson * Angela and Dave Goodrich * Nancy Belsen and John Reed * Christine Inserra and All the participants are to be congratulated for their Chris Ellicott cooperation and effort in fulfilling the motto of the City of * Claudia Oney and Bill Paige Chicago (and therefore of Rogers Park) Urbs in Horto - * Deborah Lee the city in a garden. * Lisa Crowe and John Barnes * Chase Ave. Parkway Carol Goldman is a long-time Rogers Park resident and Beautification Garden the Housing Director at the Rogers Park Community * John Beaudry and Kevin Putz Council. * Nancy Belsen and John Reed

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ROGERS PARK 2000 17

Arts Beat By Bonnie Long s we bid summer, full of fountains and outdoor fes- n't it be fun join such a class? There are also groups for Also meeting in the 'salon' is the Neighborhood A tivities, a fond adieu, let us not forget this; there are 6 to 12 year olds and teens. New classes begin Music Consortium, a music reading and performance fewer power outages in autumn. We should be September 20th and continue through December 5th. workshop that is offered free of charge. Learn to read especially glad for this, because, once again, the local It seems that there are "arty" parks, and then there notes and play the recorder, a popular (and cheap!) arts forces have a lot of indoor activity planned. I'll be are "sporty" parks. Indian Boundary is definitely the for- instrument from the Renaissance. New classes begin more than happy to sit here for a minute while you fetch mer. For instance, they offer ballet classes and private September 4th, October 2nd and November 5th, at 9 a.m. your calendar and dig up a pencil, because I know you're voice and piano lessons (at outrageously low prices). After working for four weeks in the 9 a.m. Beginner ses- going to want to write a lot of this down. Or, forget music, and take up drawing, decorative sion, players are absorbed into the Intermediate group, Lifeline Theatre opens their new season with SCARY arts or crafts. Actually, creative schedulers could draw, which meets at 10:15 a.m. The workshops are a hoot (lit- HOME COMPANION, an original work by Eric Lane decorate and sing. If you are having problems getting erally), and new players are gladly welcomed. Barnes. This tribute to the American short story is based creative, do not despair. Yoga is offered on all age levels Goings on at the NLCC gallery include an exhibit of on a variety of sources including ghost stories and urban (including for seniors), beginners and beyond. Bonne, American Indian Art, which runs through October 25. legends. Ghosts, vampires, a mysterious prom date and one of the two yoga instructors, tells me that one of yoga's Make plans to attend the opening October 1st at 7 p.m. a phantom bus, hey--I'm scared just writing about it. Runs many benefits is to enhance creativity, and that many of North Lakeside Cultural Center is located at 6219 N. September 10th through November 28th. the yoga students are in the arts. You do not, however, Sheridan Rd. For more information on any of the pro- Once you've had the wits scared out of you, why not have to be an artist to join. grams listed above, call (773) 743-4477. follow up with MY FATHER'S DRAGON, from the If you don't want to learn how to do anything, you can While the topic is galleries, if you haven't been to Kidseries. Adapted from Newberry award-winning chil- still come out for the entertainment. Don't miss DUELING Loyola's Martin D'Arcy Museum of Art in the last few dren's book, it is a nonsensical adventure following a ALTOS, part of the Jazz Café series, on Saturday, months, then you haven't seen The Art of the Spanish young boy on his journey to rescue an overworked drag- September 18 at 8 p.m. SURE THING and ACTOR'S Renaissance and the New World which features two on. Opens October 23rd and runs through January 9th. NIGHTMARE are two one act plays being presented exceptional paintings from the Cuzco School of Peru, Bring a child! For ticket information, call the Lifeline box October 8 through 10. Keep an eye open for the wacky along with fine examples of the Spanish Renaissance office at (773) 761-4477. comedic stylings of the teen improve class, Lozenge. For from the D'Arcy collection. The exhibit runs through There's still time to catch the two one act plays from more information, call (312) 742-7887, or drop by and see September. Gallery hours are noon to 4 p.m., Tuesday the "Shorties" series at the Raven Theatre. Tennessee the display of memory boxes created by the inhabitants of through Saturday. Williams' THE LONG GOODBYE (a short study of family the summer Cultural Arts camp. The park is located at D'Arcy's popular KULTUR UND KAFFEE series life) and LORD BYRON'S LOVELETTER (a romantic 2500 W. Lunt. opens its third successful season with Bloody Good: story involving the good-looking poet) are on deck On the music front, there is a little of everything over Chivalry and Sacrifice from the Middle Ages to World War through September 19th. at NLCC. But, first, for those not in the know, our delight- I, Wednesday, October 6. You'll want to be present and Raven Theatre will open their 17th season and ring ful and learned friend, Kelan Phil Cohran, makes music accounted for when they bring us Lust, Greed, and Envy: in the millennium with an American classic, Arthur Miller's every Friday night, from 7 to 10 p.m., at the Ethiopian Hell and the Christian Imagination in Art, Wednesday, A VIEW FROM THE BRIDGE. This 1955 tragedy about a Diamond Restaurant. Although he is known in many cir- October 27. The last of the autumn offerings is The New York longshoreman's obsession with his orphaned cles (his fields of expertise include, among other things, Agony of Ecstasy in Art and Religion, Wednesday, niece is a riveting tale of consuming passion and jealousy. musicology, astronomy and instrument making), this November 17. The art police have rated this entire series Opens October 22nd and runs through January 1st. For reporter sees him first, and foremost, as a top-notch com- Mature 14 based on the titles alone. Okay, I made that more information, call (773) 338-2177. poser and musician. If you've been to the Adler up. The outstanding truth, however, is that this is one ter- Arthur Miller devotees hit paydirt this fall, because Planetarium, you've undoubtedly heard the music from rific lecture series. The various topics are chosen from Loyola University Theatre opens its new season with THE his score, African Skies, from the long running exhibit of history, art, theology, and culture. All of the programs list- CRUCIBLE. This classic drama about the Puritan witch the same name. Come out and enjoy Kelan's music, ed above begin at 3:30 p.m. and are free and open to the hunts is a gripping historical play, a timely parable of con- which he describes as, "some jazz, some new age, and a public. An unbelievable treasure-trove of culture, and the temporary society, and, it goes well with the arrival of little blues." For sure, it's all original Kelan. The Ethiopian coffee and refreshments are free. The Martin D'Arcy autumn. See it October 1st to 3rd or 7th to 10th. Diamond is located at 6120 N. Broadway. For more infor- Museum of Art is located in the Cudahy Library on Then, get ready for love! Stephen Sondheim's musi- mation, call (773) 338-6100. Loyola's Lake Shore Campus, 6525 N. Sheridan Rd. For cal, A LITTLE NIGHT MUSIC, celebrates the stages of More original music will be experienced November more information, call (773) 508-2679. (what else?) love and features the hit song, Send in the 14th at 3 p.m., when the American Composers Forum Citizens of Rogers Park, your assignment this fall is Clowns. Enjoy this spectacle November 12 to 14 and 18 presents another of their Sunday afternoon concerts at to attend at least one of the above events and report to to 21. For more information, call (773) 508-3847. NLCC. An appreciation for the avant-garde is helpful, but the class. And remember, neatness counts! Get into the spirit of Halloween October 29, when not required. The concerts usually contain at least one North Lakeside Cultural Center invokes the spirit of premiered work. Be the first on your block to hear this Bonnie Tipton Long is a local musician and Associate at American author Edgar Allen Poe. Be shivering in your new music! North Lakeside Cultural Center. boots as they present theatrical readings of selected works. Talented English violinist Drosten Hall will perform As famous American authors go, why not become one more traditional works on yourself? NLCC offers ongoing workshops in memoir and Sunday, November 7th at 3 playwriting. For more information, call (773) 743-4477. p.m. His last concert at When you call, don't forget to inquire about the as yet to be NLCC held the audience in announced production by the Scap Metal Soul Edgewater absolute thrall, and was as Community Players. I can't tell you what they're planning, charming as it was dramat- but with a name like that, it's got to be good. ic. Don't miss a chance to Speaking of things I know nothing about, you can hear this exciting performer enjoy the end results of Indian Boundary Park's Play in the salon setting that is Production class sometime later this fall. Actually, would- NLCC.

Lifeline Theatre ANNOUNCES 1999-2000 Season

MAINSTAGE Scary Home Companion By Eric Lane Barnes September 10th thru November 28th Fridays & Saturdays @ 8:00pm, KIDSERIES Sundays @ 7:00pm Tickets $18.50, Students & Seniors My Fathers Dragon $15.00 By Ruth Stiles Gannett October 23rd thru January 9th The Two Towers Saturdays @ 1:00pm & 3:00pm, By J. R. R. Tolkien Sundays @ 1:00pm January 21st thru May 2nd Tickets $7.00 Fridays & Saturdays @ 8:00pm, Sundays @ 3:30pm Mrs. Piggle-Wiggle Tickets $18.50, Students & Seniors By Betty MacDonald $15.00 February 12th thru May 28th Saturdays @ 1:00pm & 3:00pm, Pistols For Two Sundays @ 1:00pm By Georgette Heyer Tickets $7.00 June 9th thru August 27th Fridays & Saturdays @ 8:00pm, Sundays @ 7:00pm Tickets $18.50, Students & Seniors $15.00

18 ROGERS PARK 2000

FOOD FUN By Evelyn J. Thompson et ready for a trip to explore the world of eating is in the process of getting a liquor license so that woman because independently she imports many G in Rogers Park without going to the bother of alcoholic beverages can be served with meals. of the food items needed for this style of cuisine. getting a passport. Besides the large dining area, Yen Restaurant has a These items include giant smoked snails, smoked bar and a banquet room. guinea hens and smoked fish. Then, she sells part YEN RESTAURANT The menu is divided into the usual categories of of her orders to grocery stores in Chicago that spe- 7242 N. Damen (corner of Damen and Rogers) appetizer, soups, beef, poultry, vegetable, seafood, cialize in African ingredients. (773) 262-9596, Fax (773) 262-9605 pork, fried rice, chow mein, noodles and glazed When you sit at your table, the wait staff places Mon thru Sat - 11am -10pm desserts. Some specialties, which were not includ- a bowl of water in front of you. As is the custom, Sun - 12 noon -10pm ed because of scope of the menu, can be made on most of the customers eat with their right hand and request. The seafood section is gigantic in scope-- this service allows them to wash their hand before In years past, I'm sure that some of you have 23 dishes. Many of the noodle dishes and items eating. African cooking is a slow and laborious pro- eaten at the old Mandarin Gardens. Who says that that are wrapped in dough use the dough that Lee cedure with the meat and vegetables stewed the past cannot be re-captured? How fortunate we produces in the kitchen. The desserts are a won- together in a sauce for hours and hours so that all are to have the same restaurant re-open by the son derful experience. Glazing is the process of dip- of the flavors are well combined. Meats and fish are of the former chef. Sam (the father who ran ping the fruit into a hot sugar glaze and then imme- often smoked first and then incorporated into a dish. Mandarin Gardens) has a resume that is very diately plunging the fruit into ice water. This causes The ingredients are very puzzling because these impressive. He was born in Northern China near the sugar glaze to harden so that you have a are names, tastes and textures which are not com- Beijing and trained in China as a chef. After he and crunchy sugar crust with the fresh fruit inside. You mon to the typical Chicago diet. The menu is small his family went to South Korea to escape will be able to order glazed bananas, apples, lychee and you will be able to determine known ingredients Communist rule, he produced quite a grand career. and potato candy. Lee can even do ice cream in this by reading the description with each selection. For manner. One item not instance, even if you have never had beans and listed is the Beauty Rice plantains together, you can visualize what they are. Soup, which helps the The same goes for fried rice made with fish, chick- complexion. It is good for en, and goat. slimming and acts as a The day I visited, one of the helpers was rolling medicine. Lotus seeds out the dough for Chin Chin which is fried dough and lychees are used with a sprinkle of sugar. The dough was extremely and a special rice that rich looking, the texture was soft and it was being becomes transparent cut into strips. A Paul Bunyan sized pot of stew when cooked. This soup meat with sauce was prominently situated in the can be eaten hot or cold small kitchen. I could see different parts of goat, and must be special cow, smoked fish, stewed leafy green vegetables all ordered. This is an bathed in a sauce that was made of chile powder, example of the traditional tomato sauce and oil. This type of stew is served Chinese and Asian belief with pounded yam which is not the orange yam that that specific foods can be we associate with Thanksgiving. A pounded yam is used as medicine. Lee's pounded instead of mashed to achieve a consisten- soups are beyond com- cy of a mashed potato that really stays together. pare and the stock is Seasonings, leafy vegetables and herbs are incor- made the laborious, old- porated into this mix. The pounded yam comes to In Korea he had a cooking school, was head chef of fashioned way--the stockpot that is constantly sim- the table in a ball and pieces are torn off and used a 5 star hotel, created the menus for the Korean Air mering on the back burner. The vegetable section as an eating utensil. The small wad of torn off Line, was a chef for the president of South Korea for is quite large and many of the other items feature a pounded yam is held between the thumb, index fin- 17 years and was the chief administrator for the wonderful array of vegetables for healthy eating or ger and the middle finger and acts as a scoop for inspection and issuance of restaurant licenses. He for the vegetarian. Salt and MSG are omitted on the juicy sauce and as a tool to separate the meat incorporated the Mandarin and Szechwan style with request and Lee says that he wants his food to be so that it can be mashed into the yam and brought the Korean style of cooking. Sam's fusion cooking flavorful, tasty and satisfying. This is indeed a full to the mouth. Very simple, and quite smart. was and still is very popular with Koreans. and glorious menu. We are fortunate to have this The menu is not large but is full of favorites of Sam and his family moved to the US in 1980 restaurant back with us. Nigerian and Caribbean cooking. Beans and corn, and to Chicago in 1981 because he wanted to work After your meal, come around to the back of the beans and plantains, tapioca pudding, coconut tof- in a big city. He opened Mandarin Gardens (which restaurant to see what the Chase Avenue Garden fee, Mosa (banana fritter), rice pudding are some of was a converted supermarket) and all of the family Club has done to Chase Ave. the choices from the Nigerian section that would worked in the restaurant. One of Sam's special tal- seem to be a good place to start for someone not ents is that he is that of a master noodle maker. TOHAM AFRICAN RESTAURANT experienced in this cuisine. Although the ingredi- This takes years of training and the application of a 1422 W. Devon ents are listed for each item, unless you are familiar very subtle skill. The procedure is very strenuous (773) 973-4602 with the names of plants and seasonings from West because a ball of dough is stretched by hand while 7 days a week - 11am - 11pm Africa you will not be able to draw a comparison being held in front of the chest. After a stretch, the between your daily fare and West African food. loops of dough are slipped around the noodle At Toham African maker's hands by constantly swinging, looping and Restaurant, your dining stretching the dough. There is always an increase experience will be infor- of strands with each loop. If the person is really mal and carry-outs are skilled, he can make noodles as thin as a hair or as easy to obtain. Toham is wide as a cigar. By the time the looping is done a very bright and upbeat there is a large number of noodles swinging place. The rooms are between the hands of the performer. I remember painted white and the one New Year's eve when Sam and Lee (his son) tables are covered in demonstrated this art for the patrons. vibrant, cheery pink Lee has recently re-opened the restaurant tablecloths. The walls under the name of Yen, which means mountain or are festooned with plas- solid rock. The logo on the front of the restaurant is tic vegetables, pictures the image of a revered historical general, Chang and mirrors that echo Phi, who was wise in the ways of war as well as back the colors and being kind in his dealings with the people that he sounds of the restaurant governed. surrounding the counter Lee attended chef's school as well as learning where you place your directly from his father. Previously, Lee had two order. restaurants in Indianapolis and one in West Tony (the young, spirited, self-assured owner of Here is just a small example of the items that I know Lafayette. For a year or so, he was a meat inspector Toham) studied cooking in Nigeria and also from about: Moin Moin is made with ogi and tapioca pud- but he missed being around people and liked a big her mother. When she came to Chicago, she ding which is tapioca and corn. Ogbono is a veg- city feel so he decided to re-open his father's opened a restaurant on Broadway and last year, etable similar to okra and is used in stews. Another restaurant. The dining room is an expansive, circu- moved to the Devon address. Not only is she a lar room that can accommodate many guests. Lee capable chef, but she is also a smart business continued on page 19

ROGERS PARK 2000 19 Prom Night at Don's Coffee Club By Lorraine Dostal SPECIAL on's Coffee Club (1439 W Jarvis) will host the 4th D Annual Prom Dance on Saturday September 25th EVENTS from 9pm until midnight. Be there or be square! Since opening for business in 1993, Don Selle has hosted swing dance events on the patio outside his Coffee Club. Friends and neighbors have had the oppor- tunity to take informal lessons and enjoy the summer Loyola University Chicago will host nights with Duke Ellington and other big band favorites. Chicago Farmers’ Markets Last year more than 350 people came to prom nite, Sunday, September 12, 1999 dressed to the nines and ready to party. Attire ranged Sunday, October 10, 1999 from traditional taffeta and tuxedos to vintage cocktail 7:00am – 2:00pm frocks and military uniforms. Those who arrived in t-shirts Southwest corner of Sheridan and Arthur and blue jeans were definitely under-dressed, but wel- come none-the-less. Gale School3will host Don generously donated the proceeds of the 1998 Prom Dance event to the Leon Feldman Fund benefiting Affordable Housing Charrette a local merchant who was tragically assaulted last sum- Tuesday, September 14, 1999 mer. The event was an affirmation that we live in a fine 7:00pm community that does not accept random acts of violence. For more information, call Tom Pigman The proceeds of the 1999 Prom Dance will benefit The at (773) 465-6011 Artists of Rogers Park. The suggested donation is $5 per person. Rogers Park Library will host a seminar on the In 1997, Wild Chicago featured Don's Coffee Club on one of their shows. The producer said "Don's segment is Fundamentals of Investing the most requested show to date". In the September Wednesday, September 15, 1999 1999 issue of Chicago Magazine, an article about past 7:00pm proms at Don's will be featured. 6907 N. Clark - 2nd Floor Auditorium Prom Nite (and every night) at Don's is an alcohol- For more information, call (312) 630-7057 free event. Coffee and soft drinks will be served. Other refreshments are available. Parking is tight, but Don's Rogers Park Library will host Coffee Club is easily reached by train (Jarvis station) and (in English) by CTA 151 and 22 buses. Latin American Stories Wednesday, September 22, 1999 7:00pm 6907 N. Clark - 2nd Floor Auditorium For more information, call (312) 744-0156

Don’s 4th Annual Outdoor Prom Dance Saturday, September 25, 1999 9:00pm – Midnight Don’s Coffee Club 1439 W. Jarvis For more information, call (773) 274-1228

Rogers Park/West Ridge Historical Society presents 1999 Fall House Tour Sunday, October 3, 1999 12:00 noon – 5:00pm Starting at Indian Boundary Park Fieldhouse For information, call (773) 764-4078 or 2401

Lifeline Theatre presents KidFest Sunday, October 10, 1999 1:00pm – 4:00pm On Glenwood Ave., just south of Morse FOOD FUN from page 18 For more information, call (773) 761-0667

stewing vegetable is egusi, whose Bethany Evangelical Lutheran Church presents leaves and seeds are used for An Organ & Choral concert greens and thickening. The Sunday, October 24, 1999 Caribbean offerings seem to be a lit- 3:00pm tle more familiar such as ox-tail soup, 1244 W. Thorndale roast beef slice, hot pepper/sweet Tickets $20.00 For more information, call (773) 334-0627 pepper soup and jerk chicken. Tony says that the food is piquant but not Chicago Waldorf School killer hot so those of you with timid will be collecting food donations for tongues can place a small order for St. Ignatius Food Pantry some of the specials without fear. Wednesday, November 24, 1999 This is an excellent place to feel 1300 W. Loyola that you are truly in another country because of the customers, the lan- Chicago Waldorf School presents their annual guage, the music and the aroma of Holiday Fair the food. Right inside the door is a Saturday, December 4, 1999 good supply of advertisements for 9:00am – 5:00pm events that are happening in 1300 W. Loyola Avenue Chicago's West African and For more information, call (773) 465-2662 Caribbean community. There are also some free news papers that give St. Ignatius Church presents an interesting slant to the news of the Sing-Along Messiah world. Go and be adventurous. Sunday, December 5, 1999 Evelyn J. Thompson is a long-time 7:30pm Rogers Park resident who is a cooking 6559 N. Glenwood For more information, call (773) 274-4880 teacher and writer. She has explored Chicago from top to bottom and side to side.

20 ROGERS PARK 2000 The Marketplace Heartland Café and Red Line Tap By Jim Yeaman 7000/7004 North Glenwood Avenue, Chicago, IL 60626 (773) 465-8005/(773) 274-3239

eartland Café: "Old hippie/boho oasis serving vege- ads, sandwiches, and enough hearty veg- H tarian and macrobiotic entrees along with a mean etarian entrees to satisfy the pickiest buffalo burger." The Chicago Reader. eater. Fine dining it's not, but it is a north- Rogers Park has long been distinguished as the side sanctuary for hungry bohemians of City's most ethnically diverse and culturally enlightened all stripes. While service can be erratic, neighborhood. It was that reputation, along with low rents, most who frequent the Heartland know a high degree of tolerance for diversity and the serendipi- what they're getting into. They also have a ty of three friends with an idea for a restaurant that gave lefty-leaning general store, a full bar, and birth to what is now known as the Heartland Café. live music on weekends." One does a Just the name "heartland" invokes a warm and com- disservice to himself if he doesn't just forting feeling; and once you step inside the establish- linger a while to chat with his companions ment known as The Heartland Café, you know that some or other guests and soak up the 60's part of you has found a home. Could it be that a menu ambiance that exudes from every nook laced with tofu, brown rice and buffalo burgers contributes and cranny of the Heartland Café. to the good karma that is to be enjoyed at the Heartland If the inside dining and bar area don't Café? Maybe the tell-tale sign that the Heartland is suit your mood, try the outdoor patio that unique starts when one observes the abundance of alter- exudes the ambiance of the Rogers Park native literature, books, videos, gifts and accessories that neighborhood. Situated at the corner of can be found in the General Store, a great space in which Lunt and Glenwood, The Heartland's out- to meander around while you wait to be seated in the door dining space is perfect for catching a restaurant. breeze from Lake Michigan, for people Getting to the dining room of the Heartland is an watching or for enjoying the full compli- experience, too. One must walk through the rustic bar ment of the restaurant and bar's wonder- which evokes a by-gone era where you would think that ful assortment of delights. (My favorite is The Grateful Dead's Jerry Garcia and a bunch of Dead the vegetarian chili with a side of corn Heads may have downed a few brews along the way. The bread!) warm glow of holiday lights and the fading hint of yellow on The Heartland Café is no "accident". the walls let you know that this vegetarian-styled estab- The concept for the restaurant grew out lishment is not to be confused with any fast food joint. A of the minds of three friends some 20 years ago. Michael with the neighborhood's 60's-style ambiance, there is a recent review in The Chicago Reader by Martha Bayne James, Diane Libman and Katy Hogan dreamed up the peace symbol carved into the sidewalk outside the front pretty much sums up the Heartland: "Unfortunately there notion of a laid back place where those of that era could door of The Red Line Tap. are not many places to get a really good buffalo burger, come, relax, listen to music, read poetry, and enjoy some When you first walk into The Red Line Tap, you're The Heartland, however, serves up a mean one, plus sal- vegetarian delights. struck with a sense of a time warp. Some have described For those who just the interior as "found-it-on-the-street décor of a hippie's want to hang out in the first apartment." A picture of Albert Einstein graces the midst of a group of con- wall along with some old maps and deer antlers. With the genial souls, shoot pool, common ownership, tasty delights from the Heartland or have a round or two Café are available at The Red Line Tap, and orders are of cold brews, the passed through a serving "window" between The Tap and Heartland has reached the kitchen of the adjacent Heartland Café. around the corner and The Red Line Tap is open daily from 4:00 p.m. until embraced another 2:00 a.m. The Heartland Café is open weekdays, 7:00 establishment. Formerly a.m. until 10:00 p.m. Weekends: 8 a.m. until midnight. known as Roy's, a leg- Bar Hours: Monday - Friday and Sunday, until 2 a.m. endary Rogers Park tav- Saturday until 3 a.m. While the restaurant is closed on ern, the Heartland own- Thanksgiving and Christmas day, the bar remains open to ers have christened the quench the thirst of tired turkey cooks and over worked bar The Red Line Tap, Santa Claus'. Being the kind of establishments they both because of its close are, it is always best to call to confirm times: The Red proximity to the CTA's Line Tap: (773) 274-3239. The Heartland Café: (773) 465- Red Line, which clatters 8005. along the north-south route some 30 feet from Jim Yeaman is President of the JOY Group and is a the bar's front door 24 Rogers Park based organization services, marketing and com- hours a day. In keeping munications consultant.

PRE-PAY AND SAVE CONVENIENT CHICAGOLAND LOCATIONS (773) 274-1500

1529 W. Howard 1762 W. Devon 6119 N. Broadway W Howard “L” Closed Sunday At Ravenswood Walgreens Plaza 7003 N. Clark 4837 Oakton Skokie 4937 W. Dempster 2100 Green Bay Rd. 1333 W. Fullerton Near Skokie Swift Evanston Walgreens Plaza

79¢

(Expires Oct. 15, 1999) (Expires Oct. 15, 1999)