May 2010 newsletter

Posted on by Steven Stern

Download the full May newsletter in PDF format

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

1st Vice President – Sam Samatas

2nd 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: 3rd Wednesday of odd months at 6:30 pm, Lincoln/Belmont Library, 1659 W. Melrose. The next one is May 20th.
  • Beat 1932: 2nd 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.

April 2010 Newsletter

Posted on by Steven Stern

Download the April newsletter as a PDF.

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 32nd Ward News

The Alderman needs volunteers to canvass streets of the 32nd 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: 3rd Wednesday of odd months at 6:30 pm, Lincoln/Belmont Library, 1659 W. Melrose. The next one is May 20th.
  • Beat 1932: 2nd 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.

March, 2010 Newsletter

Posted on by Steven Stern

Read the newsletter as published (PDF)

A FEW WORDS FROM OUR PRESIDENT …

At our Board meeting, the officers and Board members discussed South Lakeview Neighbors’ opportunity to recognize the many outstanding people in our community.  Recognition of these individuals could be acknowledged at our annual meeting in the Summer.  Discussion included that SLN honor an outstanding educator, volunteer and merchant who contributed to the success of our mission.

We have this opportunity to work in consort with several of the school principals in our boundaries and to open further discussion with our general membership for such nominees. I ask for your thoughts and input into this matter.  Should you believe that an individual deserves this recognition, please contact one of our Board members or myself.  Building relationships will only add to the greater cause of our community.  Look forward to your suggestions.

Best Regards,
Susan Radzinowicz

Meeting a Glance …
March 9, 2010

Location:    Basement of St. Alphonsus Church
1429 W. Wellington
Agenda:    7:00 pm: Coffee & Cookies
7:30 pm: Meeting
1) Neighborhood Bars Public Nuisance Ordinance
2) Walgreens – will start selling liquor again

MARCH 2010 MEETING PREVIEW

RESCHEDULED from the February snowed-out meeting:

Neighborhood Bars-Deleterious Impact Public Nuisance Ordinance (Alderman Waguespack Office and the Liquor Commission)
Elizabeth Gomez, director of Business and Community Affairs for Alderman Waguespack’s office will give a presentation of this ordinance that has been in effect since April 2007. The ordinance is designed to solve issues between businesses and residents through community meetings organized by the Department of Business Affairs and Licensing. The Ordinance is designed to address bars that are public nuisances, protect establishments that operate in a professional and neighborly manner and give residents and businesses a forum to work together to address community concerns. In addition, a representative from the City of Chicago Liquor Commission will address issues related to this Ordinance.

Walgreens – commencing packaged liquor sales
Walgreens – The Pharmacy America Trusts will reinstate the sale of liquor at its Paulina and Belmont store. A representative from Walgreens will present the stores policy for the commencing of the sales.


AT THE FEBRUARY 2010 MEETING
Snow, snow and more snow. Phone calls were made during the day discussing whether the meeting should be cancelled. But Mother Nature cannot stop the SLN bulldozer-like mission and we decided to have the meeting. However, we were unaware that  St. Alphonsus closed the school and the rectory due to the snow storm and we could not get the keys to open up. Father Hulbert sincerely apologizes to all members who trudged out in the weather to attend.

While waiting at the door to let members know the meeting was cancelled we talked to some Wellington Tap area residents that are still unhappy with the outside noise at that bar, a representative from All American Bank on Diversey and Southport and newly elected US Congressman Mike Quigley, totally disguised with his hood pulled over his head, dropped in to see what SLN was up to because Washington DC was shut down due to its snow storm. We hope to have the Congressman attend a future meeting.

NEIGHBORHOOD NEWS AND INFORMATION

Alderman Waguespack 32nd Ward News

Neighborhood Safety – Nixle, an alert notification system that sends messages to registered subscribers, now will be used to send public safety information to individuals via email or text message.  Residents will have the opportunity to receive by cell phone and Web-enabled device the most recent updates about critical situations affecting the City.  To begin, Chicago Police will issue community and business alerts, Amber Alerts for the Cook County area, CAPS beat meeting information and relevant news releases to subscribers.  Individuals can register by visiting the Chicago Police Dept’s CLEARpath website at www.chicagopolice.org.

Local School Council (LSC) –  elections will take place on April 23. Each school consists of 6 parents and 2 community residents. Nominees can pick up a nomination packet at the Alderman’s office through February or contact CPS at 773-553-1400.

Small Biz Corner – Free Programs
The Department of Business Affairs and Consumer Protection offers a variety of free programs to help Chicago business owners.  Each month they host a
variety of workshops that can assist entrepreneurs to start or grow their businesses. The following is a sample of upcoming workshops, but for a complete schedule, contact Elizabeth Gomez, at 773-248-1330 or egomez32nd@gmail.com

Talk to City Inspectors, Get Answers – every 1st Wed. of each month, 3pm–4:30pm. Inspectors from five different city departments will give you information and insight about how to best prepare for inspections.

Doing Business with the City of Chicago, February 24th: 3:15 pm – 4:30 pm. If you’re interested in doing business with the city or being a certified vendor, this is your workshop. Presented by the Office of Compliance and the Department of Procurement Services (DPS), you’ll learn about the multifarious procurement opportunities.

Get your Taxes done for Free! – Free tax preparation assistance from professionally trained volunteers may be available in your community.  The Tax Counseling Project (TCP) and the Tax Assistance Program (TAP) are Chicago-area non-profit programs offering free tax preparation assistance to families earning less than $45,000 and individuals earning less than $20,000.  TCP and TAP provide trained volunteers at 30 sites in Chicago.  To find a free tax preparation location in Chicago, call 311.

Call the Alderman’s office at 773-248-1330 or email his office at 32ndWard@gmail.com to get his newsletter emailed directly to you.

The Neighborhood Development Review Committee (the NDRC)
The lack of zoning issues over the last few years has eased the burden of the NDRC. We have kept in shape by having zoning quizzes, healthful walks around the neighborhood, playing poker and drinking. However, some items are on the back burner and may come up shortly.

1520 W. Diversey – request to change from RT-3.5 to RT-4.0 for a 3-unit condo building. NDRC is working to get the developer to adjust the shape of the building to conform to the “Diversey Guidelines” set for the 1400-1500 blocks of Diversey.

3132 N. Southport – Request for change from RS-3 (single family home only) to RT-4 for a 3-unit condo building. The NDRC does not support the proposal at this time.

Lathrop Homes Low income housing project at Diversey/Clybourn and Damen : At the invitation of Alderman Waguespack, several SLN board members attended a community meeting at the Melrose Library concerning the proposed redevelopment of Lathrop. The discussion centered on the US Supreme Court mandated mix of housing consisting of 1/3 public housing, 1/3 affordable rental/ownership and 1/3 market rate rental/ownership housing. Some attendees questioned the inclusion of market rate housing given the abundance of such housing in the neighborhood and the need for affordable housing.

Lakeview Chamber of Commerce

WOW (Women Out Working) Networking Group Meeting, Friday, March 26th, 8:30AM – 10:00 AM at the Chicago Photography Center, 3301 N. Lincoln Ave.  Have you ever thought about growing fresh food in the city?  Organic farmer and Roscoe Village resident Jennifer Borchardt of Harvest Moon Farms will talk about how to “farm” in the city, from starting a small pot of herbs on your window sill to creating a backyard vegetable plot.  She will also discuss how to seek out more locally grown, healthful food.  For more information visit www.harvestmoonorganics.com.

CAPS Meetings by Sam Samatas
Beat 1932 east of Lincoln : 819 calls for police service with 40 arrests since the December meeting. The SLN area had 4 drug possession arrests. Crimes to homeowners are down compared to last year. Theft from building 19 vs. 13 and forcible entry 12 vs. 5. SAFETY WARNING for Public Transportation pickpockets and thefts : (1) prefer to  use an aisle seat, (2) don’t be distracted by arguing persons, they can be a decoy, (3) women carry handbags in front of yourself and not on your side, (4) men keep wallets in inside coat pockets or front pants pockets.

Stupid criminal of the month : arrestee after appearing in court at Belmont and Western got into a fight in the police parking lot with another victim and was rearrested.
Beat 1924:Thurs, March 18th @ 6:30 pm, Lincoln/Belmont Library, 1659 W. Melrose
Beat 1932: Thurs, April 8th @ 7:00 pm, Illinois Masonic, 836 W. Wellington.

City of Chicago Property Tax Relief Program Application Form
As announced by Mayor Daley in various interviews and news conferences, the City has made funds available to assist homeowners whose real estate taxes increased from last year. The relief is based on the increase of your taxes and your income level with the relief being between $25 to $200. SLN will have forms available at the March meeting. You can get a form by going to the City of Chicago website at www.cityofchicago.org and click on the Property Tax Relief Program icon on the left side of the home page.  The application deadline is March 31st.  You can also contact the Chicago Tax Assistance Center in City Hall.


GARDEN TIPS by Maureen “Dolly” Short and Susan Rad.
Out my back door, with winter still around, there’s not much to do except some cleaning up.  Remove dead stubble from ornamental grasses before they resume growth.  Think about the season you had last year with insects and diseases.  Make sure when it warms up a bit to clean up spent foliage and debris from last season in your vegetable and flower garden.  Replace mulch and consider using a dormant or horticultural oil on fruit trees, grapevines and scale infested shrubs.  Check labels for application instructions on dormant and horticultural oil.  Roses that need a transplant would be best moved mid to late April after you have pruned them.  If the temperatures are low, be sure to wrap the root ball and get them in the ground as soon as possible.

Garden Tips by Susan Radzinowicz
Prune just above the ground, all ornamental grasses and perennials that were left remaining over the winter.  Start Summer blooming bulbs, tubers and seeds indoors.  Attend the Flower and Garden Show at Navy Pier.

100 BEST BARS IN CHICAGO – 404 Wine Bar (Jack’s Bar & Grill) 2852 N. Southport
Congratulations to the 404 Wine Bar for being named to a list compiled by Chicago Magazine (February 2010 issue). The magazine gives the award specifically to the 404 Wine Bar section of Jack’s. It is described as a serene neighborhood spot with about 100 wines by the glass and bottle with an impressive menu. During the winter, patrons can enjoy wine by a fire in the living-room like setting or in the summer on the lush, tree covered patio. Jacks is an advertiser in the SLN newsletter which includes a coupon for a free appetizer and kids under 6 always EAT FREE. 773-404-8400 or www.jacks404.com.

MEMBERSHIP
If you really like your neighbor, give them your newsletter, show them the membership form and tell to join so they can attend the upcoming May election of SLN officers and fun-night  and the mid-summer July shin-dig at Will’s beer garden which was awesome last year!  Bill H. said so.

RESTAURANT REVIEW by Joni G.
Deleece, 4004 N. Southport, 773-325-1710

This family friendly restaurant has been at the corner of Southport and Irving Park for many years and we have enjoyed it often.  Although it is out of the SLN arena, it deserves a revisit by this reviewer and hopefully many readers.

The doors open for dinner early at 5:30 and fortunately we had reservations.  By 6:45 the place was full on a Friday evening, with couples, families with very young children (one cried loudly for only a brief time), and what appeared to be a few tables of four singles and multiple couples.  You may also opt to sit and dine at the bar, which this evening was robust with patrons.  Service is excellent and the atmosphere is casual with a subtle romance to it.

Our starter course was rosemary scented polenta stuffed with sun-dried tomatoes and garlic pesto served on a bed of wilted spinach.  I could have eaten it all night.  Thank goodness we moved onto one of the soups du jour, creamed carrot and parsnip.  Oh so tasty, especially served with crusty bread to dunk in.  We raved to neighboring diners to order it as well.  Our butter lettuce salad with walnuts, goat cheese and roasted red peppers was served with creamy vinaigrette.  This was too much cream especially following the soup.  Finally we shared a special of the day.  The roast beef tenderloin served with sweet potatoes au gratin and sautéed kale and mushrooms.  The beef was tender and the au gratin ruled.

Be ready for large size portions of everything.  We shared each dish on this occasion and were quite content with quality and quantity.  Every course was beautifully plated separately for us.  Besides specials, there are pastas, poultry and fish dishes available.  Several appetizers and a variety of salads are offered.  We did not have room or time to sample their desserts. Save that for next time.  Deleece offers a full bar and several beers and wine choices in both glass and bottle.

Whether you have been to Deleece prior or not at all, go there so you can be fed will.  You will leave happy without too much of a lighter wallet.

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

Lake View Citizens Council – LVCC
Membership – a reminder to all SLN members. You should  join LVCC to get a broader sense of what is happening in Lakeview community. See the webite for an application = www.lakeviewcitizens.org

South Lakeview Neighbors
1505 West Oakdale Avenue
(312) 409- SLN6
www.slneighbors.org
Officers:
President:    Susan Radzinowicz
1st Vice President:    Ernie Toth
2nd Vice President:    Marge Fahrenbach
Recording Secretary:    Bill Haderlein
Treasurer:    Ann Sychowski
Corresponding Secretary:    James Volkober
Web Master:    Steven Stern
Directors:
Greg Brown            Sam Samatas
Daniel Clifford            Joseph Semerling
David Duggan            Maureen Short
Missy Frendreis        Robert Taugner
Joan Gatz
Newsletter Articles:                  Bill Haderlein
Newsletter Editor:        Jeanne Haderlein

For membership call Ann Sy at 773-477-8840

Posted in SLN

March 9 Meeting Preview

Posted on by Steven Stern

March 9, Tuesday
St. Alphonsus Church Basement

Doors open at 7:00 PM. The meeting begins at 7:30 PM sharp.

MEETING PREVIEW

Neighborhood Bars-Deleterious Impact Public Nuisance Ordinance

Elizabeth Gomez, director of Business and Community Affairs for Alderman Waguespack’s office will give a presentation of this ordinance that has been in effect since April 2007. The ordinance is designed to solve issues between businesses and residents through community meetings organized by the Department of Business Affairs and Licensing. The Ordinance is designed to address bars that are public nuisances, protect establishments that operate in a professional and neighborly manner and give residents and businesses a forum to work together to address community concerns.

Walgreens will start selling liquor again

Walgreens will reinstate the sale of liquor at the Paulina and Belmont store. A representative from Walgreens will present the store’s policy on liquor sales.

Posted in SLN