March Meeting and Newsletter

The next South Lakeview Neighbors meeting is Tuesday, March 12. As usual, we will gather for coffee and chat at 7:00 PM in the basement of St. Alphonsus church, at 1429 Wellington. The meeting itself begins at 7:30 PM.

On the agenda this month:

District 19 Commander Voulgaris

Commander Voulgaris is the new commander of the Town Hall District that was combined with the former Belmont District. The District now encompasses the area between Lawrence to Fullerton and from the Lake to the Chicago River on the west. The operations are run out of the new police station on Addison just west of Halsted. The Commander has contacted various groups to introduce himself and meet the residents and will be appearing at the March meeting. This is the first time in almost 20 years that the standing Commander has reached out to meet personally with neighborhood groups. Show your appreciation by attending this month’s meeting.

The Midwest Native Garden

Charlotte Adelman, author of The Midwest Native Garden, will give a presentation on the subject. Topics may include native plant suggestions, growing requirements, attraction of birds, and reduction of pesticides and water usage.

Ms. Adelman’s book has been positively reviewed by The National Gardener and Audubon Magazine and will be available for purchase.

St. Alphonsus Octoberfest

It is never too early to plan. The Octoberfest Committee has requested a few minutes to gauge the feelings of the neighborhood and to reveal plans for this Fall. Gemutlikeit.

At the February meeting

The appointed developer Lathrop Community Partners (LCP) and the Chicago Housing Authority (CHA) presented the current three versions for redevelopment of the property to the SLN membership and to a large contingent of Lathrop residents, community activists, internet news reporters and men in great looking suits.  Read more in the newsletter.

Several nearby residents spoke favorably about the rezoning of 1248 W. George, citing the cooperation of the owner with concerns the neighbors had over the size of the original proposals and elimination of the business zoning which will preclude any business (bar, restaurant, night club) from ever occupying this site. 100% of the nearby residents were in favor of the project. A hand vote was taken of members and those flyered. In favor, YES=35, against NO=0 ABSTAIN=2. Read more in the newsletter.

Also in the newsletter

  • Chitown Jazz Festival Performance to benefit  Lakeview Food Pantry
  • Burley Community Garden
  • Hamlin Park fundaiser

Future Meeting Plans

  • April 9, 2013 – principals representing neighborhood elementary and high schools and the educational opportunities that are offered.
  • May 14, 2013 – Culture in Your Neighborhood with representatives from SLN neighborhood theaters The Athenenaeum, Stage 773 and Theatre Wit.