“By coincidence, our regular February meeting falls on Valentine’s Day this year, a once in seven years occurrence more or less. While most of our members may be a bit beyond the age of romantic love (should I speak for myself?), we must be solicitous of those who play into the hands of the flowers-and-chocolates-industries. So we have scheduled a type of “political speed dating” for the  meeting: a forum between the two candidates for 32nd ward Democratic committeeman: Ald. Scott Waguespack (the challenger) and County Commissioner John Fritchey (the incumbent). You get to decide whom you want a second date with. And to show that we are truly equal opportunity, we’ve asked the unopposed Republican candidate John Curry to add his 2 cents worth.” — David Duggan, SLN President

Also at the meeting, the Alderman or a representative from the Alderman’s office will explain the recently passed redistricting as a result of the 2010 Census.

What’s happened since the last meeting in November? Check the newsletter.

Update 4 (Fri, 7:15AM): The Tribune has published a map that compares old and new boundaries and a story describing how the map came to be.  South Lakeview Neighbors remains in the 32nd ward.

Update 5 (Friday afternoon): Alderman Waugespack’s office has confirmed that the Tribune map is correct and that the text description of the ward (published yesterday) is incorrect.

Update 3 (Thurs, 5:04PM):  I just called Ald. Waugespack’s office.  They’re doing some digging and will get back to me.  As soon as I have authoritative word from the alderman, I’ll post it here.

Update 2: According to this map from WBEZ, SLN is still in the 32nd ward.

Update 1:  See Mia’s comment — Ald. Waugespack’s office says we are still in 32, they think.

Location:

• Basement of St. Alphonsus Church
• 1429 W. Wellington

Agenda:

• 7:00 Cookies & Socializing
• 7:30
  • Cubs Care
  • 1300 Belmont Medical Center Update
  • 2954 N. Racine Zoning Change

CUBS CARE
Each year the Chicago Cubs raise over $1.5 million dollars for Chicago Cubs Charities which helps to support local organizations and people in communities throughout the Chicago area. Several programs include Reviving Baseball in Inner Cities (RBI), Rehabilitation Institute cross-disability, competitive wheelchair softball team, Rookie League in partnership with the Park District to introduce baseball to 6-9 year old kids at no cost and Cubs Care Legends Fields at Hamlin Park that rebuilt the fields and installed an excellent lighting system in our own neighborhood park. A representative will give a presentation. For more information go to www.cubs.com and go to the Community page. Hey Hey, Holy Mackerel, no doubt about it, the Cubs are on their way.

1325-41 W. BELMONT – MEDICAL OFFICE BUILDING – Update
In order for the Chicago Zoning Board to approve this project, due to parking space issue, the property needs to be rezoned to a dash 5(-5) to be considered as Planned Development. The project still will be built to the 3-story specifications as allowed under the current zoning and presented at the special December 2010 meeting at St. Lukes. A representative of the developer and/or a representative from the Alderman‟s office will explain the mechanics. This is NOT A VOTING ISSUE. Go to the Alderman‟s Website at www.ward32.org for additional information.

2954-56 N. RACINE – ZONING CHANGE
Back after WWI and WWII, when there were housing shortages in the city, many apartment units were cut into two smaller apartments. In addition, as the era of the neighborhood storefront ended, those storefronts were converted into apartment units. This three-story property has 10 apartments: 2 ground level storefronts and 4 front and back apartments on both floors #2 and #3. The building has been configured in this manner as long as anyone can remember. The building is zoned R-4 (which is really under-zoned). The new owners wish to rehab the current apartments keeping the same configuration and keeping them as rental units. In order to obtain a building permit, the Zoning Board has required the owner to upzone the property to R5.5 in order to make the storefront apartments legal. The SLN-NDRC would require a restrictive covenant rezoning back to R-4 after rehabbing is completed to prevent a large building to be built if this property was ever demolished. The NDRC is working with the owner to replace the surrounding sidewalk and improve the landscaping. This IS A VOTING ISSUE.

In the April Newsletter
What happened at the last meeting?  We learned about the Lakeview Are Master Plan, as presented by the Lakeview Chamber of Commerce.   Get updates from Alderman Waugespack, learn about the CAPS meeting, what’s happening with the South Lakeview Park Advisory Council, news from Burley Elementary School, and more!  Read the newsletter here.

South Lakeview Neighbors will flyer the immediate area.

The meeting is being conducted by Alderman Waguespack.

TIME & LOCATION

Tuesday, December 21
St. Luke’s – 1500 W. Belmont
Doors open at 7PM – Meeting starts promptly at 7:30PM.
Please note the new address!

Email the Alderman at info@ward32.org for additional information.

Download the flyer!

A FEW WORDS FROM OUR PRESIDENT …

EMAIL NEWSLETTER

SLN is investigating email newsletters for those interested versus our current method of mailing. See the Article later in the newsletter.

MEMBERSHIP DUES

Please pay your dues and save us the expense of postage sending you a reminder. Membership Form in the Newsletter. Thanks to all.

Dear Neighbors,

You need only walk to your nearest Starbucks to see that this recession has been relentless and non-discriminatory in its effects.  Three years ago, homes turned over like hot-cakes, new business flourished and the Cubs made the playoffs. It’s different now.  Homes languish on the market, “For Rent” signs abound after October 1st and the Cubs are under new management.  Young and old have lost jobs (or never found them) and storefronts are shuttered.  This is not pessimism, but fact.  In my own profession, I know many lawyers who are out of work and others struggle. Yet some may be too proud to ask for help. This is where SLN’s food and clothing drive through the Lakeview Pantry comes in. For 40 years, Lakeview Pantry has provided the stuff of life to those in need. Those old enough to remember recessions of the 1970s and 80s know that we will come out of this one, but the toll in interrupted lives may be steep. Lakeview Pantry is there to close the gap.

For our annual Christmas party on December 14th, we ask members to bring canned or boxed foodstuffs or gently used clothing to be donated to Lakeview Pantry to distribute to our neighbors in need. This is not a “price of admission” or a tax. Any charity should be from the heart , and merely because it will benefit our neighbors should be motive enough to contribute. Lakeview Pantry operates a satellite collection and distribution center on Oakdale and has committed to keeping our donations within the neighborhood.

The October meeting was one of the more heavily attended, and may I say controversial, in many years. There is nothing like a new building (and new use) that will get people’s dander up, but one has to wonder what will go up instead of a medical building (most of the land is zoned for manufacturing), and do we want to confer on those across the street and in a different ward a veto over our own development? With a sixth of our national economy now facing federal control, it occurs to me that we would want to have a leg up on placing the health care facilities of the 21st Century. In the last 25 years, half-a-dozen hospitals on Chicago’s north side – most with roots in the 19th Century – have closed their doors (Henrotin, Augustana, Columbus, Ravenswood, Lincoln Park and St. Anne’s), taking with them thousands of beds and jobs. I for one would like to see those jobs come to our neighborhood. But I have only one vote.

The developers of the proposed medical building took into account the criticisms voiced and went back to the drawing board. Their new proposal is shorter, more in keeping with the residential styles on both sides of Belmont, and less obtrusive than that presented last month. They have asked to re-present their new concept at the November meeting, and because of holiday gaps in our regular meeting schedule, I scheduled them for a brief hearing next Tuesday. In addition, in light of the disturbing crime spree in our midst, we will host our community policing officer, Sgt. Jason Clark. He will talk about the police response to the spate of break-ins and entertain questions.

And by the way, there’s an election on November 2. The question for our November 9 meeting is whether we will all be better off than we were a week earlier.

Sincerely,
David Duggan

NOVEMBER 2010 MEETING PREVIEW

Chicago Police Department – CAPS representative

Chicago Alternative Policing Strategy (CAPS) representative Sgt. Jason Clark will give a pre- sentation. Topics to be covered will be the current rash of home invasions, neighborhood crime and preventative measures homeowners, motorists and commuters can take. If you wish to contact Sgt. Clark in advance for an issue to be addressed, email him at = Jason.clark@chicagopolice.org.

1325-41 W. Belmont – Office Building Proposal and Zoning Change Request

After the 2 to 1 NO vote on the proposal, the Developers have reworked the Project in attempt to obtain neighborhood approval. At deadline date for the newsletter, 2 proposals are being considered. The major changes from the October meeting are as follows :

New Project #1 – the 4th floor is moved back 18ft from Belmont creating a 4th floor penthouse. The height of the Project at Belmont will be 44 ft. The Penthouse 4th floor back will remain about 60 ft. The developer indicated that the 4th floor would not be visible from the north side of Belmont street level. The rentable medical office space will be reduced from 60,170 to 56,947 sq. ft.

New Project #2 – the 4th floor is totally eliminated. The height is reduced to 44 ft. The parking spaces on level 2 are reduced from 57 to 32. Part of level #2 becomes office space. The rentable medical office space is reduced from 60,170 to 45,425 sq.ft.

The façade of the Project has been reworked to give the impression of 3 different buildings instead of 1 giant building.

This issue will be up for a vote. The immediate neighborhood will be flyered.

AT THE OCTOBER MEETING

Alderman Scott Waguespack, State of the Ward

SLN has annually invited the presiding Alderman to speak before the membership. Alderman Waguespack has graciously appeared for the SLN faithful. Mr. Waguespack started out by informing the membership that he is running for reelection of the Alderman position. By mathematical deduction, we assume he is not running for mayor. Nevertheless, he believes the same issues are present for both the aldermanic and mayoral candidates.

CITY BUDGET : Alderman Waguespack’s concern regarding the city budget deficit is a question of “where did the money go.” The City was running at a surplus for many years. Now the City has a $655 million deficit. Mr. Waguespack feels the City needs to open the books to examine how this occurred. He feels there is an urgent need for more transparency in government. The Alderman believes a financial forensic audit of the last 10-15 years in necessary to weed out wastes in the City government.

The Budget and contracts are given to the City Council with little time to review and digest. Then everything is rammed through for the continued benefit of long-time cronies. New York City has an Independent Budget Review Committee to analyze their budgets in detail. The Alderman predicted the budget shortfall would be plugged with the release of unused TIF funds and Parking Meter and Skyway sales reserves which will not fix the budget structural problems. He was correct.

The Alderman recently submitted an ordinance to take back City Council oversight of all contracts over $500,000. See the Alderman’s website for a reading of the ordinance.

CRIME : The Alderman acknowledged recent crimes in our neighborhood of home invasion and attempted child abduction. He also noted an increase in property damage and increased grafitti. The Alderman and Police Chiefs are working to change shift change hours so the criminal element does not have an advantage during the change. Three Tact Teams in unmarked cars have been added to the area. The Alderman encouraged individuals, property and business owners to report all crimes, even if you think they are not a big deal. They will never be addressed unless reported.

The Alderman addressed the lack of communication related to the home invasion. The Police District will email residents “Community Alerts” if they sign-up at Lt. John E. Willner’s email = john.willner@chicagopolice.org. If you subscribe to Alderman Waguespack’s newsletter, he will forward the Community Alerts to you. Sign up with the Alderman at email = info@ward32.org. The Police were expected to flyer the immediate area the week of our meeting.

VACANT PROPERTIES : The Alderman is aggressively tracking down owners and developers of vacant lots, abandoned buildings and developments demanding maintenance of these properties.

BARS & RESTAURANTS – Wellingtons Tap. As reported previously in this newsletter, the Alderman’s office has been involved in Deleterious Impact meetings on this bar. The neighbors have had enough. The Alderman is working with the business to make them a “good neighbor.” The bar has been ordered to hire a sound engineer and limit patrons smoking and loitering outside the establishment. Jacks Bar & Grill – an ongoing battle relating to noise from the beer garden. The Alderman has ordered the Bar to remove the stereo equipment from the beer garden. Jack’s is still trying to establish the sidewalk café. From various meetings relating to bars, if you have a problem with noise, patrons, closing noise, call 911. If you do not report it, the problem will continue. The police will determine hierarchy of 911  calls, but the 911 calls are analyzed by the Police District and the Alderman.

IMPACT FEES and DEVELOPER DAMAGE :

Many developers cause damage to the alleys, streets and engage in substandard street repairs after connecting sewers to new developments. These repairs are paid with taxpayer money. The City is evaluating “impact fees” developers have to pay up-front  for repairs after the developer has left the premises.

Email the Alderman to sign up for his newsletter or updates including community alerts at Email info@ward32.org.

1325-41 W. Belmont – Office Building Proposal and Zoning Change Request

MedProperties is the Developer of this Project. The developers had met with the NDRC the previous week. That proposal was rejected, but several suggestions were floated, that at the time, the developer basically rejected. The Developer decided to present that Project to the Membership. At approximately 2:00PM on day of the Membership meeting, the Developers delivered a revised Project, which was presented to the Membership.

THE REVISED PROJECT : The addresses are currently occupied by a mostly one-story medical building, the associated parking area and a Native American Art store.  The revised Project is a 62,000 rentable square foot medical office building. The Project is a 4-story glass and brick building. The Revised Project reduced the top cornice to approximately 60 ft. high. The Revised Project had required sideyards of 30 inches. The Project will be anchored by Northwestern Memorial Hospital (NMH). There will be an Urgent Care Center at street level with extended hours. 12,000 square feet of retail space will be available on the 1st floor. The retail space will be marketed as health-care related. The 1st floor will include an NMH Imaging Center. 10 physicians from NMH will occupy the 3rd floor. Other medical or business tenants will occupy the 4th floor. There will be 74 indoor parking spaces that can also be used for restaurants and theater in the evening. The roof consists primarily of a green wellness garden. In order to achieve the desired office ratio, the Project will require a B2-5 zoning. The Developer touted the Revised Project as being in character with the mixed-used zoning on Belmont and an opportunity for the neighborhood to bring a world-class operation in and replace a vacant, nondescript commercial building.

QUESTIONS and DISCUSSION :
The overall discussion focused on the height of the building, increased traffic, parking congestion, alley delivery issues, children safety with parking lot in and out, asbestos issues upon demolition and roof top utilities affecting nearby neighbors. Overall, the comments were predominately negative. A ballot vote was taken.

Do you favor the proposed Project : YES=27, NO=54. The information was forwarded to the Alderman’s office. In addition, Alderman Waguespack was in attendance for the presentation as he was speaking afterwards.

Congressman Michael Quigley

Mr. Quigley made an unannounced brief presentation to the membership at the start of the meeting. See his Washington D.C. information later in the newsletter.

FROM OUR ELECTED OFFICIALS & CAPS

Alderman Waguespack 32nd Ward News

FALL LEAVES – place blue bags on the SIDE of your Blue Recycle Cart. DO NOT put leaves in the Blue Cart. Do not overload bags. Do not sweep or blow leaves into the street. They will clog the street cleaner (or cleaner may skip your street totally) and drains will be clogged all winter long.

BUDGET – the City Council budget hearings begin including testimony on funding cuts to neighbor agencies like Chambers of Commerce and the LEED Council.

Alderman Waguespack recently participated as Principal for a Day at Lakeview High School, which many of our current residents and parents attended in the good old days.

Email the Alderman’s Office at info@ward32.org for his newsletter or updates.

Congressman Mike Quigley

Mr. Quigley’s State Ethics Law Protection Act (SELPA) legislation passed through the House of Representatives on September 29. SELPA allows States that enact anti-pay-to-play laws to continue receiving funds from the Federal Highway Administration. SELPA clarifies that anti-pay-to-play laws are consistent with federal contracting requirements, ensuring future projects will be chosen based on merit rather than political connections and favors. Feel free to contact Congressman Quigley at 773-267-5926 or visit his website at www.quigely.house.gov.

CAPS Meetings

Beat 1932 (East of Lincoln) by Sam Samatas
Three home break-ins on the 1300 and 1400 blocks of Barry. In two of the break-ins residents were home and accosted with weapons. The attacks were early in morning 3-5AM. Two to three young black males were involved and are still at large. Access in all cases was through the 1st floor unlocked windows and judged to be a crime of opportunity (unplanned). Police continue to recommend that all residents keep all ACCESSIBLE doors and windows locked AT ALL TIMES.

On October 19, Richard Skora was arrested for numerous trash bin fires, which in some cases caused damage to fences and garages. Car break-ins targeting GPS’s, sunglasses, and I-Pass devises were targeted. Never leave anything of value (coin tray, upscale travel mugs, a box of Tide laundry detergent) visible.

On October 27, the Ashland Dunkin Donuts was robbed around midnight. An employee was able to get in the back and call the police. A chase ensued and the two perpetrators were apprehended. It is believed these criminals were involved in other robberies (but not the home invasions) in our immediate area.

Beat 1931 (West of Lincoln) by Joan Gatz
See next meeting date

•    Beat 1931: 1st Thursday of odd months (November 4) at 7:00 pm, Hamlin Park, 3035 N. Hoyne.
•    Beat 1932: 2nd Thursday of even months (December 9)  @ 7:00 pm, Illinois Masonic, 836 W. Wellington.
CAPS Officers  – Belmont District is Sgt. Jason Clark : 312-744-5983 ; email  CAPS019District@chicagopolice.org.

Ernie T. submits the following information:
Help the Police Improve the Quality of Life in South Lakeview and create a safe neighborhood by reporting the following:
1)    Overflowing construction dumpster, 2) car parked at fire hydrant, 3) dog without a leash, 4) graffiti, 5) car parked in parkway (between street and sidewalk), 6) burned out street light and 7) adult bicyclist on the sidewalk.

Call 311. Operator may transfer your call to 911. The phone call brings police to our neighborhood and gives them the chance to enforce laws that improve our safety and quality of life.

NEIGHBORHOOD NEWS / INFORMATION

SOUTH LAKEVIEW PLAYLOT

South Lakeview Playlot Advisory Council

Halloween Party – October 17
The party was a huge success with capacity kiddy crowds. Crying was held to a minimum. The Advisory Council would like to thank South Lakeview Neighbors, The Goddard Preschool, Stanley Fruits & Vegetables and Lakeview Computer Specialists for their sponsorship. Thanks to all volunteers for set-up, production and clean-up. No volunteers, no events.

SLN would like to congratulate the Advisory Council for the enjoyable and professional programs they put on in Summer and Fall. Please note that these programs were put on solely through the efforts of the Advisory Council and the sponsorship of SLN and other individual sponsors.

Corporate Sponsors
The Advisory Council is looking for Corporate sponsors for its 2012 Summer and Halloween events. Contact Jennifer Roche at jenniferroche@yahoo.com or Carolyn Withey at witheycarolyn@yahoo.com for additional information.

Advisory Council Meetings
Next meeting Tuesday November 16 at Alderman Scott Waguespack’s office, 2657 N. Clybourn, 5:00-5:30PM to discuss repair and improvement issues at the Playlot. Be on TIME.

All interested citizens are welcome to join the Council for the 2011 season. Meetings are to be held 1/24, 2/28 and 3/21, all Mondays at 7PM at the Golden Apple Pancake House. Contact Jennifer Roche for more information

BURLEY ELEMENTARY SCHOOL

Friends of Burley
Did you know this? The Chicago Tribune reported that Burley received an A+ perfect score of 100% rating from the Chicago Public School system.Only four schools of the over 650 CPS schools received this high rating. Congratulations.

Burley School Book Fair – buy books to support the school. In the Burley Field House behind the school: 11/15 Mon. 9-3, 11/16 Tues. 9-3, 11/17 Wed. Noon-6, 11/18 Thur 9-3, 11/19 Fri. 9-12.

Winter Party and Fundraiser – February 4.
www.friendsofburley.com

LAKEVIEW CITIZENS COUNCIL – LVCC

Founders Club Cocktail Reception – November 9, Tuesday 6PM to 9PM at Harry Caray’s Tavern, 3551 N. Sheffield. This event is an integral role in funding the LVCC and programs. See www.lakeviewcitizens.org/founders.asp. for more information.

Operation Mitten – Help children in the area keep warm this winter. Your cash donation will be used to purchase mittens, gloves, scarves and hats for children in need. Many items will be given to police beat officers in the 19th and 23rd Districts to pass out while on patrol. Other items will be used for Children Holiday Parties at the Police Districts for children from financially challenged homes. Send your donation to LVCC, 3355 N. Clark, Chicago, IL. 60657

For membership information. See website www.lakeviewcitizens.org.

LAKEVIEW CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

Lakeview Area Master Plan (LAMP). LAMP is progressing. Visit the Chambers Open House Events for LAMP:
November 20, 11-4 at Flourish Studios – 3020 N. Lincoln Ave. (including finalists of LAMP photo contest) or
December 3, 5-9 at 3440 N. Southport
Visit the progress of LAMP and find out about other activities at www.ThisIsLakeview.com.

Southport Lights Up – November 18, Thursday 5-9PM. Enjoy a holiday evening event highlighting great gift deals along Southport Ave, our premier shopping and strolling area.

Southport Holiday Stroll – December 3, Friday 5-9PM. A very cool Lakeview Holiday tradition.

NATIONAL RUNAWAY SWITCHBOARD

Located in heart of SLN land at 3080 N. Lincoln Ave.  The Switchboard is looking to train volunteers for answering the Crisis Line. 40 hours of training is provided. After training, volunteers are asked to commit 2-4 hours/week. Shifts are flexible. Volunteer in your neighborhood and make an impact nationally. For more information contact Michelle Vos at 773-289-1726 or www.1800RUNAWAY.org

ATTENTION ADVERTISERS – AD SPACE AVAILABLE

Spaces are available for the 2010-2011 season. Members are encouraged to contact their favorite restaurants or vendors. Get in NOW. Yearly rates for 9 issues : Smallest $50, next smallest $75, 1/6 page $110, 1/3 page $210, ½ page $310. Contact Diane Galiej at 773-929-6673 or Ann Sychowski at 773-477-8840

SLN HOLIDAY PARTY – December 14

SLN invites all attendees to participate in the Lakeview Pantry Food Drive. Please bring (recommended items) peanut butter and jelly, cans of fruit, vegetables, tuna, chili or soup. SLN will see to it that this food is directed to the Lakeview Pantry located at 1414 W. Oakdale in the lower level of St. Alphonsus. During the recent economic slump, food pantries have seen  15% increase in clients.

GREATER CHICAGO FOOD DEPOSITORY

Volunteers must be 18 years old and be able to stand for 3 hours. Contact Volunteer Services at 773-247-3663 or visit the website at www.chicagosfoodbank.org. for more information.

RESTAURANT REVIEW by Joni G.

Joni is busy doing stomach crunches and will return next month with her award-winning reviews and coveted restaurant ratings. Yum-yum in the tum.

SLN – WEBSITE = www.slneighbors.org

Visit the site.

Links to Community Resources. 1) 32nd Ward links to Alderman Waguespack’s website. 2) City Service Requests – learn about or request services from the City. 3) CPD Crime Stats – view maps showing up to date crime information. 4) Deleterious Impact Ordinance – trouble with a business or bar. Learn how this Ordinance works. 5) Everyblock for SLN – gathers information (permits, business openings, licenses, restaurant inspections and crime data) for every block in Chicago.

EMAIL NEWSLETTER – Sign up here, Dude.

It is 1990. Email has become the preferred method of information dissemination in most offices. Flash forward to 2009. SLN gets a door hanger about the Internet. What is that? Are we going paperless? If you wish to subscribe to the newsletter by EMAIL, go to the SLN website at www.slneighbors.org. Click on the link on the right side of the page under “Subscribe to our newsletter.” Then enter your name and email address. Click “Subscribe to the list” to complete the process. Those not wanting an email newsletter, will continue to receive the mailed version. Please note that SLN’s biggest expense is the copying and postage of the monthly newsletter. Your switching to the email version will reduce SLN’s expenses and leave more for the parties.

A few words from our president

Dear Neighbors,

Scott Waguespack was elected alderman of the 32nd Ward in 2007, beating two-term incumbent Ted Matlack in a run-off election after neither had won 50% of the vote in a primary. (A third candidate has been lost to history.) It was the first defeat for the vaunted Dan Rostenkowski political organization since Terry Gabinski was elected alderman in the 1960s. At his retirement in 1999, Gabinski was the dean of the 50 Chicago aldermen: Matlack was his chief aide.  You get the picture.  Without re-hashing ancient history, suffice it that Matlak’s zoning decisions did not endear him to many South Lakeview neighbors. The near-empty condo buildings along Lincoln and the “For Sale” signs on other streets stand as testament to the zoning decisions made more than four years ago, when sunshine and blue skies stretched to eternity. It was fun while it lasted.

Ald. Waguespack has been a rare independent at City Hall, voting against the fire-sale of Chicago’s parking meters (sadly, he voted for the Olympics, but the International Olympic Committee saved him from the folly of his self-preservation vote in a system that knows not the term “loyal opposition”).

He comes to our October meeting for our annual “state of the ward” address and will answer questions as to neighborhood concerns (please no political questions, whether of a prognosticative nature or as to his own plans).

Our neighborhood is at the northeast corner of the 32nd Ward, which ropes in a good chunk of the real estate bounded by Addison on the north, Sheffield on the west, North Ave. on the south and Western on the west (how appropriate). I say good chunk, but the 32nd Ward is a monument  to gerrymandering with cut-outs and protuberances on all sides: it resembles a Transformers blueprint.  A second leg juts southeast paralleling the Chicago River to take in much of the new industrial area north of Division along Elston and Kingsbury, including most of Goose Island. For reasons known only to God, the Finkl Steel plant on Cortland is carved out of this cartographic excrescence. Once the 2010 census results are in, the boundaries will undoubtedly be redrawn as estimates have some 20,000 more people living in the ward than the 60,000 or so required by proportional representation. Folklore has it that the 32nd Ward has the highest per capita income in the City (a legend supported by the fact that the boundaries conveniently exclude two public housing developments on the borders: Cabrini Green and Lathrop Homes), so obviously the map-drawers will be looking to “cherry pick” blocks or neighborhoods to bolster certain candidates’ chance for (re)-election. Whether our community will remain part of the 32nd Ward or be shifted elsewhere is anyone’s guess. Some of us old-timers remember when most of SLN’s area was in the 44th Ward, now represented by Tom Tunney.

Also on the October agenda is a proposal to re-zone eight lots in the middle of the 1300 block of West Belmont to allow a medical imaging (read MRI) and urgent care facility under the auspices of Northwestern Hospital. Most of the subject property is now occupied by the low-rise “industrial” building that runs dialysis or other medical services. The developer, which claims to be “very experienced and highly respected”, would put in 12,000 square feet of ground floor retail in a four-story building with 74 indoor parking spaces. The proposed height of the building (70’) is greater than that of the surrounding residential properties, but less than that of the Renaissance Plaza at Greenview and Belmont, and the condo-converted former industrial building on the southeast corner of Lakewood and Belmont.  This will be a voting issue.

So, the October meeting portends to be one significant to our neighborhood’s future. Please put it on your calendar, Blackberry or iPhone and tell your friends and neighbors to come. We are no better than the enthusiasm we show at the meetings held for our mutual benefit.

OCTOBER 2010 MEETING PREVIEW

Alderman Scott Waguespack–State of the Ward
An annual event, SLN welcomes the Alderman for his State of the Ward speech. Considering the volatile environment of the City budget shortfall and the open Mayoral race, this appears to be an interesting evening. Get there early for a good seat.

1325-41 W. Belmont  –  presentation and discussion of potential zoning change
MedProperties, LLC will present its proposal for the Project at the above address. Those addresses are currently occupied by a mostly one-story medical building, the associated parking area and a Native American Art store.  The Project is a 62,000 square foot medical office building. The Project is a 4 story glass and brick building. The top cornice will be 70 ft. high. The parapet wall will be 68 ft. high. For comparison purposes, the Senior Housing at 1501 W. Belmont is 77 ft high and 3133 N. Lakewood is 75 ft. high.The Project will be lot-line to lot-line front to back and side-to-side. There will be no side yards (gangways) for the properties bordering the Project. The Project will be anchored by Northwestern Memorial Hospital (NMH). There will be an Urgent Care Center at street level with extended hours. 12,000 square feet of retail space will be available on the 1st floor. The 1st floor will include a NMH Imaging Center. It is unclear how many medical or business tenants will occupy the building or if the make-up of the tenants is known. There will be 74 indoor parking spaces that can also be used for restaurants and theater in the evening. The roof consists primarily of a green wellness garden. In order to achieve the desired office ratio, the Project will require a B2-5 zoning. This Project is developed as a Planned Development.

ISSUE : The NDRC committee is concerned that allowing that zoning to accommodate this project will set off an avalanche of similar requests on the 1200 and 1300 blocks of Belmont.

The immediate area surrounding the Project will be flyered. This will be a Voting Issue.

AT THE SEPTEMBER MEETING

State Representative John Fritchey

Mr. Fritchey has served as our State Rep. since 1996. Most recently he received the 2010 Bishop Shiel Award from the Illinois State Crime Commission. However, Mr. Fritchey is not returning to Springfield and he did not paint a pretty picture of what is going on down there. He noted the dire budget situation did not happen over-night. It was a basic math issue of spending all the revenues in the “good times” and not planning for any future shortfalls. He stated that the current mess cannot be solved in 1 to 2 years. It will take time and at this time, nobody has come up with a plan. Mr. Fritchey believes the State Income Tax hike is inevitable and necessary. The number of State employees has been slashed to the point that Illinois has the lowest number of employees per capita in the U.S. except for the State of Mississippi. Some pension reform has been passed, but Mr. Fritchey believes it should have been done years ago. The State’s pension plan was so lucrative, that it encourages workers to stay in government jobs for the pension only.

TIF (Tax Increment Financing) Problem. With all the State money problems, Mr. Fritchey claims that the City of Chicago and the State of Illinois is sitting on millions of unused TIF Funds. On Mr. Fritchey’s website, he states that at the end of 2009, an audit found that the City of Chicago had a combined balance of $1.2 billion dollars. Of that amount, only $37.1 million was reserved for developments. Mr. Fritchey is introducing legislation to return unused TIF money to the taxing bodies such as the Chicago Public Schools. These unused TIF funds could wipe-out the Chicago Education deficit. Mr. Fritchey noted that TIF is really controlled by the Mayor and this issue is definitely on the radar. See Mr. Fritchey’s web-site for more detailed information.

Mr. Fritchey addressed the education system. He stated that Illinois has the highest funding disparity from highest to lowest schools of all 50 states in the U.S. and also behind Washington D.C. The State should fund 50% of all education. It currently funds about 32%. As the states share decreases, the local government has to come up with funds. Normally this is done with increased property taxes. Poor communities cannot raise taxes and the schools are running at deficits. Unfortunately, any State Income Tax increase would go to the deficit, not education.
The Future : Mr. Fritchey is running for the Cook County Board Commissioner  spot vacated by Forrest Claypool. He noted that Cook County’s budget would make it the 15th largest State in the U.S. Mr. Fritchey believes the County is unorganized with duplicate services, waste and fraud.

Finally, an overriding theme during Mr. Fritchey’s talk was to be informed of the candidates and vote. An informed public will make a difference in the long run. SLN thanks State Rep. Fritchey for his many years in the House and good luck in his future endeavors. Website = www.fritchey.com.

Republican Committeeman – John J. Curry

Yes Virginia, there are Republicans in Chicago. Mr. Curry took the membership for an informational ride as to the duties of a Committeeman. He noted that in the last election, the 32nd Ward cast 7th most Republican votes. Mr. Curry has been the Republican Committeeman for the 32nd Ward since 1996. It is an elected position. He also noted that it is a non-paying position. The Committeeman’s duty is to reflect the interest of our Ward to the Republican Party regarding slating the Republican candidates. The Committeeman also is heavily involved in making sure elections are fair by appointing Republican election judges for Election Day. He is also the liaison for local voters to contact their elected officials.

For more information on the Republican Party in the 32nd Ward contact Mr. Curry at 1-800-694-9036 or email = johncurrygop@gmail.com

WELLINGTON’S TAVERN – update

At the September 23 Mediation Meeting residents reported no change in the noise or bad behavior level since the July 20 meeting. However, with the bar opening earlier for football games, the commotion starts earlier on the weekend. Thursday nights have become worse due to the influx of college students for Thursday Night Football. Officials noted that 911 calls were down; however, the residents reiterated that they are hesitant to call 911 for noise issues. Wellington’s is currently under scrutiny due to a “sale of alcohol to minor” (SAM) charge. As part of the Mediation Process, Wellington’s has been requested to 1) attend CAPS meetings, 2) meet with the Community Police Officer and the Alderman, 3) establish a public way line rope to keep smokers separate from sidewalk pedestrian traffic, 4) investigate noise level restrictions and 5) keep side door on Lakewood closed.

The next Mediation Meeting is scheduled for November 9, Tuesday at 10:00AM, Room 805 in City Hall. It his highly suggested that residents affected by this issue attend these meetings.

SOUTH LAKEVIEW PLAYLOT – NEWS

South Lakeview Playlot Advisory Council

Halloween Party

October 17, 2010 Sunday from 3:00-5:00PM. This great family event is a blast. Corner of Lakewood and Wolfram. Be there or be scared. BOO!

Sponsors

The Advisory Council is looking for Corporate sponsors for its Halloween Party and 2012 Summer events. Contact Jennifer Roche at jenniferroche@yahoo.com or Carolyn Withey at witheycarolyn@yahoo.com for additional information.
NEIGHBORHOOD NEWS AND INFORMATION

Alderman Waguespack 32nd Ward News

DAMEN AVE. road closure – from Armitage to Churchill (1832 north) to repair water main. Starting late September.

FALL LEAVES – place blue bags in blue recycling garbage can or on the side. Do not overload bags. Do not sweep or blow leaves into the street. They will clog the street cleaner (or cleaner may skip your street totally) and drains will be clogged all winter long.

GRAFFITI – call 311 and the Alderman’s office to report it as soon as you can. Two major taggers “BigL” and KWT were arrested on August 20. They appeared in court, but the owners of the properties did not show up for court. The taggers walked out with “a smile on their face.”

VOTER REGISTRATION and ADDRESS CHANGE – Tuesday, October 5th is the deadline to register or change your address for the November 2nd General Election :
1)    Email form at www.chicagoelections.com
2)    At any Secretary of State office where drivers licenses are issued. 2 forms of ID.
3)    Through the Alderman’s office

DOCUMENT SHREDDING – bring your documents to the Alderman’s office from today to November 10. There is a locked bin you can dump your documents. The Alderman’s office has partnered with Midway Document Destruction to collect the documents and destroy them for you.

Email the Alderman’s Office at info@ward32.org for his newsletter or updates.

CAPS Meetings

Beat 1931 (West of Lincoln) by Joan Gatz
Most frequent crime in our District was unlawful entry. Police reported this as a “Community Alert.” Take extra care with securing your home while asleep at night or away on vacation. Officers encouraged residents to take a home inventory, record your valuables as well as photos. A home inventory sheet can be obtained by an email request to = CAPS019district@chicagopolice.org.

Beat 1932 (East of Lincoln) by Sam Samatas

See next meeting date.

•    Beat 1931: 1st  Thursday of odd months (November 4) at 7:00 pm, Hamlin Park, 3035 N. Hoyne.
•    Beat 1932: 2nd Thursday of even months (December 9)  @ 7:00 pm, Illinois Masonic, 836 W. Wellington.
CAPS Officers  – Belmont District is Sgt. Jason Clark : 312-744-5983 ; email = CAPS019District@chicagopolice.org.

Burglary Workshop attended by Sam Samatas and Diann Marselek put on by CAPS : September 22, Wednesday from 7:00-8:00PM. Location – 19th District Auditorium, 2452 W. Belmont. See Page 6
for recap of Burglary Workshop.

Burley Elementary School : donorschoose.org
The website = www.donorschoose.org is a site that allows educators across the country to post classroom wish lists. See what Burley teachers are hoping for in their classrooms this year. You can choose to fund an entire project or donate toward a goal. DonorsChoose then delivers the materials to the classroom. To find Burley Elementary School projects use the keywords “Burley Chicago” in your search. Be sure to use Chicago in your search as there are many Burley Schools across the U.S.

Lake View Citizens Council – LVCC

Energy & Environment Seminar – October 13, Wednesday 6:30PM-8:30PM at Standard Bank & Trust, 3920 N. Sheridan Road. Representatives from Commonwealth Edison, Chicago Department of Environment and the Department of Water will discuss ways to conserve, save money and help the environment. It is FREE man. Complimentary wine, appetizers and rain barrel water shots.

Founders Club Cocktail Reception – November 9, Tuesday 6PM to 9PM at Harry Caray’s Tavern, 3551 N. Sheffield. This event is an integral role in funding the LVCC and programs. See www.lakeviewcitizens.org/founders.asp. for more information.

Membership – a reminder to all SLN members. You should join LVCC to get a broader sense of what is happening in Lakeview community. See website www.lakeviewcitizens.org for an application.

Lakeview Chamber of Commerce

The Chamber is scheduled to appear at the November SLN membership meeting. As reported last month, the Chamber and SSA#27 are working on the Lakeview Area Master Plan (LAMP). LAMP will benefit the entire Lakeview service area with heavier concentration on the commercial districts on Lincoln, Southport and Belmont. Visit website www.placeconsulting.net.

Trick or Treat on Southport and Pumpkin Party – October 24, Sunday 1PM to 4PM. Trick Treat at businesses on Southport from Roscoe and Irving Park. Visit the Pumpkin Party on Southport between Grace and Byron.

National Runaway Switchboard

Located in heart of SLN land at 3080 N. Lincoln Ave.  The Switchboard is looking to train volunteers for answering the Crisis Line. 40 hours of training is provided. After training, volunteers are asked to commit 2-4 hours/week. Shifts are flexible. Volunteer in your neighborhood and make an impact nationally. For more information contact Michelle Vos at 773-289-1726 or www.1800RUNAWAY.org

St. Alphonsus – Children’s Garage Sale
7th Annual. October 23 from 8AM to Noon in the Lower Church. Donate your gently used children clothing (infant-pre teen), toys, furniture, baby gear and maternity clothing. Collection times 8AM-Noon on October 16, 18, 19 and 20. This is a very big and organized sale. For more information contact Trish Kelly at email = tricia@inmarksales.com.

ATTENTION ADVERTISERS – AD SPACE AVAILABLE

Spaces are available for the 2010-2011 season. Members are encouraged to contact their favorite restaurants or vendors. Get in NOW. Yearly rates for 9 issues : Smallest $50, next smallest $75, 1/6 page $110, 1/3 page $210, ½ page $310. Contact Diane Galiej at 773-929-6673 or Ann Sychowski at 773-477-8840

RESTAURANT REVIEW by Joni G.

Chizakaya, 3056 N. Lincoln, 312-943-6255
“Konichiwa”, is what we said as we entered this modern, clean Japanese restaurant in the location formerly know as Felice Bakery. The interesting murals on the ceiling seemed to melt down the walls which brought your attention upwards to the beautiful art. The music and lighting were at pleasant levels with the hip-hop lounge sound catering to the young crowd, many Japanese couples.

We began our small plate Japanese fused with an American twist meal on an early Friday evening. Good thing too, by 7:00 the place was packed! The front of the restaurant has about 15 tables and a bar, where singles sit to nosh. In the back the kitchen is open to all who are seated on tall chairs at a long communal table, where you watch what it takes to get all the orders made and how quiet everyone is doing so.

Not knowing about the back dining area, we sat in the front room and ordered miso soup with tofu and barley, a little too salty for my taste. The tofu basket with bonito (fish stock) was very light and served in a small basket. Except for the soup dishes, only chopsticks are used for dining. Good exercise for the cerebellum region of your brain.

We tried three different Yaki (prepared and cooked on a stick) plates. The turnip and the sweet sausage were very tasty. The best plate we shared was the Corn Fritters, an American food with a Japanese twist served with lime and spicy mayo. I could eat these all night long and sip either a cold Japanese beer or sake, which they have several to choose from, along with specialty cocktails and Japanese whiskeys. We concluded our meal when we agreed to being full after slurping up our Ramen noodle dish with fish ball, bacon and egg. The plates and soup are served in beautiful pottery.

Chizakaya is a very hot new restaurant and I am honored that they chose our neighborhood. This place is going to become very popular because it has a different type of menu with excellent service. The ingredients are from local and sustainable farms keeping the menu seasonal. The evening out can get a bit pricey with several small plates and a couple of beverages. I recommend that you go have a new dining experience and arrive early. “Arigato” to the two chefs, one with experience at Charlie Trotters and the other from restaurants in New York and Las Vegas.

SLN – WEBSITE = www.slneighbors.org
Visit the site. It is a work in progress. Pictures and information to be added.

MEMBERSHIP

Do not delay. Pay your 2010-2011 dues in a timely
Manner to insure your ability to vote on ALL MATTERS and continue the delivery or your NEWSLETTER.
PLEASE PAY PROMTLY.
MEMBERSHIP FORM IS IN THE NEWSLETTER.

GREATER CHICAGO FOOD DEPOSITORY

The City of Chicago has an immediate need for 40,000 family food boxes now through mid-September. Sign up NOW to join the Food Depository on the Flex Line with your family or community group. Volunteers must be 18 years old and be able to stand for 3 hours. Contact Volunteer Services at 773-247-3663 or visit the website at www.chicagosfoodbank.org. for more information.

Recap of 19th District Burglary Workshop

Four former burglars spoke at the workshop.  Here is a recap of what they said:

Areas to commit crimes:
•    Yuppie areas where there is wealth
•    Areas where people don’t know neighbors

Means to see if anyone is home:
•    Knock on doors, no answer a good sign that noone is home
•    Watch movements to see when people come and go

Areas where they gain access to home:
•    Back doors – less seen by anyone
•    Window
•    Front doors that have weak frames
•    Air conditioners that they can punch out

Areas in house they go to:
•    Closet
•    Master bedroom
•    Dressers
•    Junk drawers in kitchen
•    Computer rooms

What they look for:
•    Cash, jewelry, electronics, guns checkbooks, pre-approved credit cards

When they commit the crimes:
•    Day light hours

Suggestions to prevent burglaries:
•    Have as many layers as possible. They want to get in and out quick. The layers are sensor lights, alarms, cameras, crime watch signs
•    Have strong door frames. Lock all doors and windows.
•    Don’t put boxes on garbage cans that advertise that you bought something new
•    Leave on radio or tv so they think someone is home
•    If you have a safe, bolt it to the floor
•    Have block clubs. They avoid homes where there is a nosy neighbor.
•    Engrave serial numbers on items and keep in a secure place

SLN’s long-time State Rep and Democratic Ward Committeman will appear to discuss the State of Illinois political mess. Budget issues, Educational funding, Governor Blagojevich and other issues will be touched on. Mr. Fritchey always gives interesting viewpoints on the State’s political issues. Mr. Fritchey is retiring from the State legislature at the end of his current term. Mr. Fritchey is currently running for the Cook County Board position vacated by Forrest Claypool.

Republican Ward Committeman – John Curry

As an equal-opportunity neighborhood association, SLN has invited Mr. Curry to give the Republican point of view of local and State-wide issues. Mr. Curry has appeared before the SLN membership in previous years and often attends SLN meetings.

1325-41 W. Belmont – preliminary presentation and discussion of potential zoning change

A developer has approached Alderman Waguespack’s office for a development proposal for the above address. Those addresses are currently occupied by a mostly one-story medical building, the associated parking area and a Native American Art store. Information is in a raw presentation stage. The developer wishes to obtain feedback from the neighborhood before committing a large investment in architectural and legal zoning fees. The general plan is as follows : 1) 4 story medical building, 2) 78 indoor parking spaces, 3) proposed tenants are to be doctors associated with Northwestern University Hospital. To obtain the desired office spaces needed, the property will need to be zoned as a B2-5 commercial property. This development will be considered a Planned Development.

ISSUE : The NDRC committee is concerned that allowing that zoning to accommodate this project will set off an avalanche of similar requests on the 1200 and 1300 blocks of Belmont.

A FEW WORDS FROM OUR PRESIDENT …

Our Nominating Committee met and some changes to the composition of our Board and Officers occurred. Change brings new ideas and energy to a group.

I want to thank the past Board and Officers, members, advertisers and volunteers for allowing me to serve as President of SLN. It was a privilege. I feel most fortunate to be part of the community and our organization. I look forward to continued participation in the efforts of SLN. Again, heartfelt thanks to all.

Susan Radzinowicz

MAY 2010 MEETING PREVIEW

Fun Night

SLN will supply beer, wine and pop at no charge at the May meeting which is our last meeting before our Summer break. Any member is welcome to bring a small snack. Come, meet your neighbors and maybe leave with a new Summer friend. Yeah baby!

Meeting a Glance …

May 11, 2010

Location: Basement of St. Alphonsus Church
1429 W. Wellington

Agenda:

• 7:00 pm: Coffee & Cookies
• 7:30 pm: Meeting

• 1A) Election of Officers and Directors
• 1) Fun Night – free beer, wine & pop
• 2) St. Alphonsus Parking Lot – zoning change
• 3) Cody’s – Beer garden permit
• 4) 3000-3100 N. Southport – Future zoning issues general discussion – Continued
• 5) South Lakeview Playlot Advisory Council – Introduction

St. Alphonsus Parking Lot

Consisting of the parking area behind the school and church and the lot at Oakdale and Southport, these parking lots have been operated as pay lots (on certain nights excluding parishionsers with parking permits) for several years. In late 2009, the City of Chicago determined that the zoning of these properties was not appropriate for the operation of a pay lot. Since then, St. Alphonsus has discontinued the operation pending an appropriate zoning change from the current RS-3.5 to RT-4. After receiving the appropriate zoning and obtaining their license, these parcels will be down-zoned back to RS-3.5 in order to protect the neighborhood from a large multi-story development being built by the Archdiocese or whoever buys the parcel when St. Alphonsus retires. This is a voting issue.

Cody’s Public House – Beer Garden

Located at 1658 W. Barry, the owner has applied for a beer garden license. The owners will present their plan. This is a voting issue.

3000-3100 N. Southport – updated discussion of future zoning issues

SLN’s NDRC continues the discussion of potential zoning issues on these two blocks based on the information gathered at the March meeting and new information based on a parking space inventory conducted by SLN. The blocks are currently zoned RT-3.0 which allows for the construction of single family homes only. Developers are inquiring as to possibly getting zoning changes to RT-4.0 for the purpose of building 3 or 6 unit condominiums.

South Lakeview Playlot Advisory Council

Still in its building stage, this Council will be taking on the responsibility of planning events at the Playlot, capital improvements and fund raising. The current Board will give a brief presentation of how things are going.

Election of Officers and Directors

Always nerve-racking with multiple nominations from the floor, back-room deals and the final dropping of balloons for the newly elected officers and directors. Come see all the excitement plus the free booze and pop. Let’s do it.

AT THE APRIL 2010 MEETING

U.S. Census Bureau

Mr. Floyd T. Rutues, Partnership Specialist from the U.S. Census gave a brief presentation for the membership. The Census was mandated by the Constitution in 1790 and is completed every 10 years. The mail-in portion of the Census ended on May 1. The door-to-door process for those who did not respond will start shortly. There may be up to 6 visits by a U.S. Census taker to get the required information. The Census information affects the number of seats our State occupies in the U.S House of Representatives. People from many walks of life use Census data to advocate for causes, rescue disaster victims, prevent diseases, research markets, locate pools of skilled workers and more. The information collected helps determine how more than $400 billion dollars of Federal funding is spent each year on infrastructure and services like : hospitals, job training centers, schools, senior centers, bridges and other public works projects and emergency services. Mr Rutues noted that the Lakeview area

had one of the top 3 participation rates in the Chicago region. He also noted that the Census is still hiring. The U.S. Census Bureau donated hats and t-shirts to the SLN meeting which were quickly gobbled-up by the membership. For more information visit www.2010.Census.gov. SLN appreciates the time Mr. Rutues and his staff spent with our membership.

New Sidewalk Café Permits

Alderman Waguespack’s office forwards all new permits to the neighborhood groups for approval. Here are the results of the votes

Jack’s Bar & Grill and 404 Wine Bar located at 2856 N. Southport. Jack’s was represented by Manager Lyndsey Anderson and Bar Manager Chris Keagle. The plan submitted was substantially the same plan for a café on Southport as in July 2009. The proposed hours were to open only until 9:00PM Monday-Thursday (instead of the allowable 11:00PM and until 10:00PM on Friday and Saturday (instead of the allowable Midnight).

Ms. Anderson noted that all street café patrons would have to order food. Ms. Anderson also described the decibel testing Jack’s does for its beer garden noise. The membership noted that Jack’s already had a beer garden and questioned as to why Jack’s should have two outside venues. Ms. Anderson answered that the overriding reason for the street café was to increase sales. Other members questioned and complained that Jack’s has installed a wide screen TV and speakers in the garden emitting B96 music that can be heard in the members kitchen. Others members noted that smokers on George St are loud and disruptive, trash bins are often open, overflowing and emit a strong order, beer bottles are found outside of the establishment, rats patrol the alley next to Jack’s and noise has increased over the years. There was a smattering of support from some members, but none who lived in the immediate vicinity of Jack’s. Voting results : Do you favor the proposed street café :Yes=3, No=39. The vote was forwarded to the Alderman’s office.

Patsy’s Bar & Grill located at 2825 N. Lincoln Ave. Patsy’s was represented by owner Tom Murphy. Currently Patsy’s has 2 large tables with 6 chairs. Patsy’s wished to expand to 4 small tables with 16 chairs total. Mr. Murphy noted that his establishment must be one of the smallest bar and grills in Chicago. He is a hands-on owner that is present 5-7 days a week. He intends to expand the time of his weekend brunches to 10AM starting time and closing time of the street café would be midnight as allowed by the license. The membership had overall positive comments on the operations of the business. Voting results : Do you favor the expansion of the street café : Yes=32, No=4. The vote was forwarded to the Alderman’s office.

The Ashland Bar located at 2824 N. Ashland Ave. The Ashland was represented by the new owner Bo Doung. Mr. Doung is also in the process of purchasing the building. Mr. Doung’s group also owns the Grand River Bar & Grill on Lincoln Ave. He noted that he was aware of the neighborhood’s negative opinion of the prior owners operations. After closing on the building (estimated date is April 30), the bar will close and have a total remodeling including painting over the graffiti mural currently on the side of the building. They have spent $50,000 on the new kitchen and plan to make the establishment more family friendly. The street café plan is to relocate the current café from building side to curbside to improve pedestrian traffic on Wolfram and expand the outdoor café from 30 seats to 50 seats. Mr. Doung noted that his café sits across from McDonalds and businesses and not residences. The membership objected to the expansion of total seats because of potential increased noise but relented to give the new owners a break and see how it goes noting that a close eye will be kept on The Ashland. Voting results : Do you favor the relocation and expansion to the street café : Yes=25, No=8. The vote was forwarded to the Alderman’s office.

Macondo Coffee located at 2965 N. Lincoln Ave. The owned by the same owners of Las Tables, Macondo was represented by Manager Leo Saurez This establishment does not serve liquor. The establishment serves fair-trade and organic Colombian coffee, empanadas and Colombian baked goods. The café plan calls for 4 tables and 16 total seats operating from 8AM to 8PM and 9PM on the weekends. The overall impression of the business from members that have visited the shop was positive. Voting results : Do you favor the proposed café : Yes=33, No=4. The vote was forwarded to the Alderman’s office.

3000-3100 N. Southport – updated discussion of future zoning issues

SLN has been approached by Alderman Waguespack’s office and various developers to examine zoning issues on an overall basis for this area. These blocks were flyered inviting all to attend the meeting. Currently zoned RS-3 which allows for only single family homes to be built. An inventory of the housing stock perfomed by SLN showed that many of current buildings are actually 3 flat multi-unit buildings, with some coach houses (3 to 5 rental units) that are currently legal because they were built and grandfathered-in before the Zoning Laws of 1957. However, most of these buildings do not exceed new height restrictions and generally not as deep on the lots as even a new single family house would be. Developers wish to build 3 unit condominium projects. The floor was opened up for comments. Owners on or near these blocks were concerned about 1) increased density if multi-unit condos were built, 2) the square box look of condos ruining the general residential look of the blocks, 3) the increased parking problems in an already congested area and 4) dilapidated and boarded-up buildings and current vacant lots negatively affecting the value and resale value of houses that have been renovated and kept-up by responsible owners.

This was the first membership meeting on this issue. It was agreed that SLN will undertake and perform an inventory of parking spaces and how new buildings will change that number. These results will be presented at the May meeting and the discussion will continue.

OFFICERS AND DIRECTORS – Election 2010

A Presidential Election year. 14 possible candidates was whittled down to 7. Upon being asked to serve as President, 3 people immediately put their houses up for sale and are moving to Wisconsin. We had to invoke, the SLN President eats free at all restaurant myth to entice the remaining candidates to consider the positon. For the an amazing 40th year plus, we have a slate for the 2010-2011 season :

President – David Duggan

1^st Vice President – Sam Samatas

2^nd Vice President – Ernie Toth

Recording Secretary – Bill Haderlein

Treasurer – Ann Sychowski

Corresponding Secretary – Marge Fahrenbach

Directors : Joseph Semerling, Robert Taugner, Joan Gatz, Daniel Clifford, Maureen Short, James Volkober, Greg Brown, James Frendreis, Perry Castrovillari and former President Susan Radzinowicz.

Thanks to the Nominating Committee for all the time they put in : Joe Semerling, Bill Haderlein, Ann Sychowski, Marge Fahrenbach, Daniel Clifford, Katy Toth and Susan Radzinowicz.

SOUTH LAKEVIEW PLAYLOT – NEWS

South Lakeview Playlot Advisory Council

An introductory meeting was held April 19 at Hamlin Park. Two nearby Playlot residents, who have been involved in the planning of past summer events at the Playlot, are spear-heading the creation if this Advisory Council. The meeting was attended by Park District Supervisor, several members of SLN and approximately 12 interested volunteers.

The next meeting is scheduled for May 17 Monday @ 7:00PM Hamlin Park Fieldhouse 3035 N. Hoyne.

Contact Jennifer Roche at jenniferroche@yahoo.com or Carolyn Withey at witheycarolyn@yahoo.com for additional information.

South Lakeview Playlot – Clean up

The first activity scheduled by the Advisory Council. Sunday – May 16 from 10AM to 12PM Noon. Contact Ari Silverstein, clean-up coordinator at email = arm829@aol.com to volunteer or additional information. Good luck for good weather.

NEIGHBORHOOD NEWS AND INFORMATION

CAPS Meetings by Sam Samatas

Arrests are up, crime is down. Beat 1932 has 884 911 calls which includes calls for unusual or suspicious activity which could prevent crime at another location. There were a couple of arrests for battery on the 1300 and 1400 blocks of Belmont and Wellington. A major undercover sting on St. Patrick’s Day nabbed 6 arrests for prostitution at the Belmont and Clark intersection during 10PM and 4AM. Go to bed early my friends.

• Beat 1924: 3^rd Wednesday of odd months at 6:30 pm, Lincoln/Belmont Library, 1659 W. Melrose. The next one is May 20^th.
• Beat 1932: 2^nd Thursday of even months @ 7:00 pm, Illinois Masonic, 836 W. Wellington.

GARDEN TIPS by Maureen “Dolly” Regan

Composting: the controlled decomposition of organic, kitchen scraps, wood shavings and paper is a thing of beauty to gardners and spring is the time to harvest that gold mine. Compost recipe – you will need a container like a small garbage can and poke holes in the top for air circulation.

Ingredients: brown materials like leaves, dry matter, not wood sticks (takes too long to compost), green materials like grass, vegetable waste soil or old compostis full of microorganisms that act similar to yeast in the making of bread or yogurt – just a little. A bacteria to kick off the process. Although the composting will work without this addition of soil or old compost, it helps the process go faster. Water, to a damp sponge consistency, to have adequate moisture inside the compost pile. Many compost piles suffer from being too dry. Water and stir the pile as you build it. Air: oxygen is required for slow fire called composting. Without air any biological activity will be severely limited. Direction: mix all of these ingredients and turn as you can. Easy compost recipe: two parts tree leaves (for deep minerals), two parts grass clippings (fresh hot greens) and one part steer manure (crumbly handles best). Add a dash of soil and a dash of minerals such as phosphate rock, potash, clays, etc. Spray with water while mixing, but don’t let the pile get soggy. Cover with soil, turn every few days and respray with water lightly at least twice. The compost is usually ready in two to four weeks in warm water. Mix with soil and add to the garden. Cover composted areas with mulch.

NEW AROUND THE NEIGHBORHOOD

Things were slow at the office, so I took a walk around the neighborhood to see if any new businesses have cropped up.

The Belmont Ave. strip was pretty bustling for 1:30 on a dreary Thursday afternoon:

Insight Sign Company – 1631 W. Belmont. Get your car wrapped in advertising, increase your profits. www.chitownwraps.com

The Pony Inn – 1638 W. Belmont. Been around for a few months. Formerly Gunther Murphy’s and for the old-timers The Belmont Lounge. A TV at every table so you can ignore your husband or wife. People tell me they like to take the kids there early for food, drinks and general mischief.

A FEW WORDS FROM OUR PRESIDENT …

Greetings to all! I am writing this as a reminder which came from an earlier Board discussion. South Lakeview Neighbors is committed to build and galvanize relationships with our members, volunteers, business owners and those who contribute to make our neighborhood desirable, stronger and evolving.

I am requesting that we as an organization continue to think about those who have made such contributions to SLN. Perhaps a teacher, principal, business owner, member, officer or neighbor, and recognize that person or establishment at our annual meeting. Presently that meeting is scheduled for June. Should you know of such a person, or a contact for that person, please inform a Board member, officer or me (773.858.1592) so we can pursue.

I also want to remind everyone about Earth Day and how we can get involved with cleaning up our neighborhood. I have volunteers who can assist us; however, I need someone to coordinate this effort. We can address the playlots or designate blocks on certain streets. If any are interested, please contact me. Truly , Susan Radzinowicz

Meeting a Glance …

April 13, 2010

Location: Basement of St. Alphonsus Church
1429 W. Wellington

Agenda: 7:00 pm: Coffee & Cookies
7:30 pm: Meeting

1) U.S. Census Bureau – speaker
2) New Sidewalk Café Permits
A) Jack’s Bar & Grill
B) Patsy’s Bar & Grill – expansion
C) Macondo Coffee Shop
D) The Ashland Bar – expansion
3) 3000-3100 N. Southport – Future zoning issues general discussion

APRIL 2010 MEETING PREVIEW

U.S. Census Bureau

We have all received our Census Forms. A speaker from the Bureau will give us insight as to why we should take the 10 minutes to fill it out.

New Sidewalk Café Permits

Alderman Waguespack’s office will forward all new permits to the neighborhood groups for approval. It is Spring so permit requests are in. On the agenda to present their plans are as follows:

Jack’s Bar & Grill and 404 Wine Bar located at 2856 N. Southport. Jack’s is submitting its plan from last year for a café on Southport side of business. The café will be located on the parkway that they patio bricked in last year. They will present specifics on times of operation.

Patsy’s Bar & Grill located at 2825 N. Lincoln Ave. Patsy’s has a café on Lincoln Ave. They would like to expand the length of the café. They will present specifics at the meeting.

Macondo Coffee located at 2965 N. Lincoln Ave. The owner wishes to set out a few tables and chairs at curbside for its coffee and food patrons. No alcohol is served at this site. The owner is also the owner of Las Tables.

The Ashland Bar located at 2824 N. Ashland Ave. The owner wishes to relocate the current sidewalk café to the curbside and expand it to accommodate additional seating. This establishment was recently purchased by the owners of the Grand River Bar & Grill on Lincoln Ave.

3000-3100 N. Southport – future zoning issues

The NDRC wishes to engage the membership and residents of these two blocks in a discussion of future zoning issues on these blocks. The blocks are currently zoned RT-3.0 which allows for the construction of single family homes only. Developers are inquiring as to possibly getting zoning changes to RT-4.0 for the purpose of building 3 or 6 unit condominiums. These two blocks are virgin and have been untouched by developers. The area will be flyered and your opinion is appreciated.

AT THE MARCH 2010 MEETING

Neighborhood Bars-Deleterious Impact Public Nuisance Ordinance (a/k/a The Bad Bar Ordinance)

We love our bars in SLN. However, we are not interested in becoming the new Lincoln Ave. or the Southport Corridor where the interests of the bar owners has surpassed the lifestyles of the homeowners. The huge increase in outside partiers to our area is threatening our preferred urban environment.

Elizabeth Gomez, director of Business and Community Affairs for Alderman Waguespack’s office and Ms. Burnett- Whitaker from the City of Chicago Commission appeared before the membership to describe how this ordinance works.

Ms. Wittaker informed the group that there are two ways for a bar to lose their license. First and most serious is illegal activities, which could be serving minors, operating outside of legal hours, drug dealing on the premises or crimes committed in the bar or outside the bar such as patron fighting or gun-play, illegal happy hour specials or restaurants with liquor licenses operating as bars. The Bad Bar Ordinance is designed to address non-criminal issues arising from the operations of a bar, but issues that, nevertheless, negatively affect the surrounding neighborhood such as noise from the bar, noisy patrons outside the bar, fighting that spills to the street after patrons are evicted from the bar, trash issues, traffic issues and my favorite – vomiting.

Ms.Gomez let it be known, that any resident who is having trouble or has complaints about an establishment can contact the Alderman’s office to get help with confronting the bar owners with any issues. Any group of 5 or more residents who reside within 500 ft. of the bar may file a complaint to the Local Liquor Control Commissioner relating to the bars operations related to Nuisance activities. Though not necessary to start the process, but important are complaint calls to 911. The bar is brought before the Alderman, community members and the police to hear the complaints and give their rebuttal. After usually a minimum of 3 meetings, a plan of action is adopted to address the complaint issues. If the bar does not resolve these issues within a certain time frame, the process moves to Step 2. The community submits a Public Nuisance Petition in which 51% of the registered voters within 500 ft of the bar must sign. The petition is submitted to the City’s Department of Business Affairs. At this point, the bars liquor license is under review. Under the Ordinance, the bar can be fined, or have its’ license suspended. If continued disregard for solving the problems occurs, the bar can be closed. The Alderman’s office has found that if the owners know the neighborhood is serious, they will comply with terms of the plan. Ms. Gomez stressed how important it is for the community to keep involved as the owners can refute any evidence

Ms. Gomez offered that LaVida on the 1200 block of George St was recently closed as the owner could not comply with the neighbor’s demands under this Ordinance. Ms. Gomez summarized the information by stressing that 911, not 311, calls are important and that the community must work together and keep the pressure on the owners. For additional information call Ms. Gomez at Alderman Waguespack’s office at 773-248-1330 or email her at elizabeth@ward32.org.

Walgreens–commencing packaged liquor sales

Residents of SLN are tired of having to walk more than 100 yards to purchase liquor. Here comes Walgreens – The Pharmacy America Trusts to the rescue. Representing Walgreen’s to give us the good news was Walgreen’s Public Relations firm, the District Manager and the Store Manager. Walgreen’s has met with the Alderman and applied for a license to sell 6 packs and 12 packs of beer (no individual cans) and bottles of wine. They have no intention of selling hard liquor or any Bailey’s type liquor concoction. It will be a modest selection, though Walgreen’s does intend to have a fairly high-end selection of wines. The employees will have to undergo special training and all purchasers that look under the age of 40 must be carded, which means all SLN members can leave their ID’s at home. The proposal was met with nods of approval and vigorous applause from the membership.

1520 W. Diversey – Zoning Change

The developer of this property requested a zoning change from RT-3.4 to RT-4.0 in order to build a 3 unit condominium under the guidelines previously set by the SLN membership for the 1400-1500 blocks of Diversey. The proposal conformed to the requirements except for the additional of a garage deck. Discussion on the issue ensued, with the SLN memberships being strongly opposed to the garage deck as potentially noisy to surrounding neighbors, too close in proximity to the coach house on the adjoining property and an invasion of privacy to neighbors on each side and across the alley. The developer noted how the garage deck makes the units more marketable but this point was not received favorably by the membership. A hand vote was taken on the issues as presented. In favor (Yes) = 6, opposed (No) = 25. The developer and NDRC Chairman Joseph Semerling asked for a second vote excluding the garage deck. That vote was (Yes) = 26, (No) =1. The developer is still considering garage deck issue in their plans to proceed with the zoning change. The vote was forwarded to the Alderman’s office.

NEIGHBORHOOD NEWS AND INFORMATION

Alderman Waguespack 32^nd Ward News

The Alderman needs volunteers to canvass streets of the 32^nd Ward to report potholes, graffiti, trim trees, street lights out, etc. so they can be fixed. For more info contact Kerri Stojack at email=kstojack@cityofchicago.org or 773-248-1330.

Street Cleaning – The city recently released a sweeping schedule but it is no longer valid as the mayor’s office determined they were moving to a citywide grid system. Alderman Waguespack’s office is currently working on providing a new map and schedule.

Street Closures for Filming – The City Film Office has requested a full day closure of the Lincoln, Southport and Wellington intersection on a weekday. Specific dates are to be determined.

Call the Alderman’s office at 773-248-1330 or email his office at ward32.org to get his newsletter emailed directly to you.

NOMINATING COMMITTEE and 2010-2011 OFFICERS and DIRECTORS

Any members wishing to serve on the Nominating Committee to develop the slate for the next season, please leave a message for Bill Haderlein at 773-348-4516 (Chicagoland Deck) or email = chicagolanddeck@rcn.com. The Committee will meet on a date shortly after the April 9 membership meeting to present the slate at the May 11 meeting.

Any members who would like to serve as an officer or a director, please contact Bill Haderlein in the same manner. If you believe a member you know would be a qualified candidate, please contact us. This is a great chance for all to get involved in your neighborhood. ALL RESPONSES MUST BE RECEIVED by APRIL 13 – MIDNIGHT.

CAPS Meetings by Sam Samatas

• Beat 1924: 3^rd Wednesday of odd months at 6:30 pm, Lincoln/Belmont Library, 1659 W. Melrose. The next one is May 20^th.
• Beat 1932: 2^nd Thursday of even months @ 7:00 pm, Illinois Masonic, 836 W. Wellington.

GARDEN TIPS

Garden Tips by Maureen “Dolly” Regan

Spring is here except it’s still cold. Are you ready for some more cleaning up? The daffodils and crocus are showing up. The tops of the tulips from bulbs from Amsterdam are also showing up. Prune summer-flowering shrubs and hedges mid-April. Spring-blooming shrubs such as forsythia should be pruned immediately after flowering. I’ve been collecting paper egg cartons to start my seedlings like tomatoes, cucumbers, bell peppers and hot peppers. Cut top of carton, put plastic in the bottom, mix miracle grow with potting soil, plant seed as directed and water. Put in large plastic bags and water every couple of days. Start planning your vegetable garden. Relocate tomatoes from last year’s placement. If you have any questions about native plants, stop in at the flower house in Lincoln Park. I’m sure they can answer your questions.

Garden Tips by Susan Radzinowicz

Trees and shrubs can be planted late in the month and fertilized. Cool annuals can be planted if no suggestion of serious frost. Start seeds indoors. Compost and prepare beds with compost for seasonal planting in May.

SLN – WEBSITE = www.slneighbors.org

Visit the site. It is a work in progress. Pictures and information to be added.

RESTAURANT REVIEW by Joni G.

Fiorentino’s Cucina Italiana, 2901 N. Ashland, 773-244-3026

There’s no place like home or Fiorentino’s. That is what many folks who frequent this Italian eatery say. You are always warmly greeted by Frances Fiorentino and any of her family members upon walking through the door of this very popular Sicilian restaurant. Sometimes you may have to wait briefly to be seated and sip a glass of wine or cocktail at their back bar. Therefore, reservations are highly recommended. The wait is always well worth what is to follow: a relaxing, enjoyable evening that will be palate pleasing as well.

You will never go wrong with any menu choices at Fiorentino’s. Always try something from the special of the day, often prepared by Frances herself. Our entrees on this visit comprised of hearty fare since there was a chill in the spring night air. I enjoyed the Pappardelle alla Bolognese, wide pasta ribbons in a rich meat sauce. There was ample sauce for dipping crusty bread in. My dining partner had the Rigatoni alla Boscaiola, sweet Italian sausage and mushrooms in a creamy tomato herb sauce. Both equally delicious and served in large enough portions that lunch is taken care of the next day.

Fiorentino’s has an extensive wine list. We enjoyed a bottle of Primitivo red wine from Puglia this evening. The bottle prices are a deal on any evening; however, they have a ½ off wine special on Mondays. They do have a full compliment bar and feature special martinis on Wednesday evenings.

The service at Fiorentino’s is comparable to a fine upscale dining restaurant, although business casual is worn and not so upscale prices are charged. Their year-round outdoor piazza is the best place to sit for a quiet warm evening, no matter what time of year!

The first time I reviewed Fiorentino’s, almost four years ago, they had just opened their doors. I remember meeting Frances on the street in front of her restaurant. As she proudly promised then, Frances and her family have brought the warmth and good taste of Sicily to our neighborhood and enriched our lives and palates over the past four years. This is a true treasure for dining in our neighborhood.