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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.