The Rogers Park Inconsistent - Chicago, Illinois

The Tomato Plant that was Left for Us

2011-09-07T00:47:00.000-06:00

I’ve begun to appreciate the little things. However all that I am left to nurture, for now, is a small tomato plant. It was a gift from him for Mother's Day. It now serves as the memory of a child who has left and needs to return. The plant seems endowed with love and cherished memories. It reminds me of times that I can only pray for. The conception of loss is now overwhelming. Yet, I have to believe that we reclaim what seems taken for granted.

There were warning signs. Sometimes, I inferred advice by bearing witness to others. In the process, I ignored what was more essential and staring directly at me. You can buy a whole library of self help books in an effort to pave the path of parenthood. Perhaps, even read a few of them, but applying the knowledge can be a battle.

Once I felt more responsible. Like conceptions that come and go, I feel like I am chasing a dream that was handed to me, but denied to others. Unfortunately, parents cast opportunities aside. We should nurture kids to be stable and strong as the tomato plant that we are now left to care for until he returns.

Emmanuel Predicted, Emmanuel Elected. What's Next? Teachers Strike?

2011-02-22T21:40:00.001-06:00

Traditionally, both the U.K. Labor Party and the U. S. Democrats have become the most palatable politicians to destroy unions. Business will support these candidates and so-called liberals overlook these radical changes to the economic landscape.

I expect Emmanuel's next jab at the Teacher's Union. Besides, with Emmanuel's kids safely tucked in The Latin School, does the Rahminator really care about Chicagoans with children in the public school system? Imagine if teachers at Latin School sat out for a day, perhaps a week, and demanded a vote for collective bargaining? Would they be locked out? Would enough pay attention?

Are many Latin School Teachers looking to network and treat their jobs as a transition? Well, I fear that we will experience all the mistakes that resulted in repetitive strikes in Daley Jr.'s early days. Growing pains? Repeating history?

I hope that good teachers stay with CPS. I suspect scapegoating of competent teachers for the sake of the political status quo. Its gone on for years with uncommitted parents blaming CPS, not their own lack of commitment, or that of other parents.

The consequences of losing experienced and well trained teachers is not worth the gamble. Teachers struggle for the attention of those kids. Some have young irresponsible parents and this cycle of ignorance cannot be broken without attention. It is a parent-teacher-student bond that leads to continuing and successful education.

Of course, the continued layoff of CPS social workers and psychologists mean that emotionally challenged or mentally ill children have fewer people and legitimate places to go for positive support. Will these budget cuts result in more financial loss through the golden road to unlimited room and board via the correctional centers. Those who struggle for attention need options for legitimate success.

Kids need a place to thrive. The home television just does not cut it. Oh brave new politics! We feign ignorance for the sake of appeasing the masses into oblivion.

In four years, will the City will be a different place? Will it be a better place? In four years,will Mayor Emmanuel succeed?
Is Rahm that far from Bernard Epton in his political views? I have to wonder. Any thoughts? Perhaps, this is a work in progress with comments to come. Is Rahm a short term Chicagoan with a long term suburban mentality? Is this what Chicago needs for urban renewal?

The public schools are part of the puzzle. Yet, depending upon private enterprise which may have greater incentive to dummy test scores inflate grades creates concern? How much oversight exists in the private charter schools? Does the composition of charter schools threaten education? Can charter school staff more easily dummy up test scores due to less oversight? Or are these simply exaggerated claims?

Political Phone Calls - What the Deal with the Do Not Call List? Has Rogers Park Dummied Down?

2011-02-22T00:48:00.000-06:00

Who is sick of receiving political calls? Why do politicians think that these calls will work? The calls have the reverse effect on me. For those who thought that politicians will honor the "Do not call list;" think again!

What a bunch of blithering hypocrites!

To all those who appreciate our struggle to end idle chatter hinders productivity, then call one of the worst offenders, Rep. Schakowsky. Tell Jan to support a National Political Do Not Call List!

Experiencing the Rahmenon with Eyes Wide Open.

2011-02-01T15:01:00.002-06:00

I was born and have lived in Chicago for nearly thirty years. My family has lived Chicago for over a Century. I have witnessed the Rahm phenomenon. I have concerns. I can only hope that he does a good job, but his staff's actions, as alleged by Gery Chico, may raise eyebrows at the U.S. Attorney's Office.

Chicagoans should look at Rahm Emmanuel for what he is, what he has done, and what he can do. Also, what the other candidates want to do. This means some soul searching in spite of frustration with all the current candidates. Perhaps, Rahm really is the last candidate standing until the next election.

Our troubling Illinois Supreme Court precedent in Maksym is old news. The Illinois Legislature should look at the Burton Odelson Brief and the Hoffman decision in the Maksym case, as well. Yet, I know Illinois needs to move ahead with meaningful legislation when the elections end. Chicago Politics should not be reduced to a vacuum featuring Big Bill Thompson-like characters.

I recall with disappointment the inappropriate lambasting of Supreme Court Justice Heiple by Jenner and Block's Jerold Solovy through Bob Greene in the Baby Richard case. The response by the Illinois Legislature to impeach Heiple seemed more like a tribute to Solovy, who was both tenacious and tender in his practice. Yet, Heiple was dead on correct. I believe that Solovy may have wanted to up the body count. The Jenner Law firm seemed to use it's discretion for the Warburton Family to successfully tempt Loren Heinemann to fight. In that fight, Loren's fate as a licensed Illinois Attorney was sealed. Heinemann's other clients could no longer be served while he fought for the Kirchners with his license at risk. Otto Kirchner deserved his child back according to the U.S. Supreme Court, as well!

Here is another twist on Michael Kasper, who represented Rahm Emanuel. Kasper also represented Illinois in its fight to impeach Justice Heiple. Kasper was the Counsel to the Special Executive Committee for the Illinois House of Representatives for the purpose of impeaching Justice Ronald Heiple. Perhaps, a coincidence, but it is interesting to ponder whether any of the Justices consider this unusual fact.

My concern: should Illinois Attorneys engage in what may appear like political vendettas? Mr. Kasper, don't get me wrong, we all know that we can do; the ethical challenge is, should we? Do our actions encourage Justices to make decisions that they later live to regret? It is their choice, I know, but ethical inconsideration through the use of Ben LaBolt like power can seriously complicate justice as some attorneys have argued. I am not faulting Mr. Kasper, just the environment that creates our arguably overzealous steam that complicates and contorts justice to suit our needs.

This incident, among others, encourages me to believe, until convinced otherwise, that Justice Thomas and the Illinois Supremes punted. In doing so, out went Judge Hoffmann's plain meaning interpretation of the Illinois Municipal Code. However, there is no other choice but to respect the decision until the Illinois Legislature decides what it will do with it! To that, I say good luck!

Still, our politicians, including elected judges, must use wise discretion. I fear that Rahm Emmanuel's Ben LaBolt who purportedly put pressure on Gym Club owners suggest the Chicago to come. That mentality must change! I'm glad that story surfaced. Perhaps, a future Mayor Emmanuel will read about it, investigate, and recognizes whose in his huddle. I hope that he and his staff use the gym for something other than fingerpointing. I can envision Rahm Emanuel holding a 'rat tail' to Representative Massas arse. Fortunately, Emanuel was not alleged to have gone that far! Well, both incidents are on the record even if I dislike quoting Gery Chico's rhetoric and Fox News.

Our media must remain independent of too much suburban affluence and influence. It must cast aside the desire to promote 'Deal Estate' and focus on the day to day issues that affect everyday Chicagoans. I know that the Charter Schools are problematic. I appreciate challenges with the Chicago Public Schools. Children should not have children who never learned how to care about education! This can perpetuate itself.

When a public school sheds itself of a gang member, these misfits often end up in Charter Schools. The recent shootings at C.M.S.A. in Rogers Park demonstrate the challenge. Yet, Rahm Emmanuel and the media ignore this phenomenon that undermines the Charter educational system. Crime at Charter Schools too often goes underreported. Hey Rahm, look at what gang members learn in the Charter Schools!

Chicago issues and challenges are best known by the residents who pound the pavement on a day to day basis. The marketing machine created by Rahm Emmnuel and Richard M. Daley suggest that the media can warped and overly anamored by oversights until it is too late.

Let's not sell out Chicago. Those who work in the media and live in the City that works must put pressure on inexperienced politicians who don't appreciate day to day challenges of City Life.

The media must not overdo its sensationalism and marketing glitz to mischaracterize Emmanuel as some sort of Camelot Conqueror. There are excellent Chicago Public Schools waiting for parents who actually spend time to work with their kids and know where to find these gems.

Again, let's get serious about Chicago, the media should muck rake the challenges and applaud the successes. I hope that if and when Rahm rolls in, he selects a staff that does more than look good in a suit and tie!

Bob the Punter? Rahm in Rollout? Perrier Instead of Tap? Is there a Resident in the House? Or Do We Simply Sellout?

2011-01-30T22:01:00.039-06:00

Punter in my opinion! Okay, I admit that I am still on page four of the 25 page decision. I still remain unconvinced based upon the Trib's excerpts. What about that Illinois Municipal Code? Does it mean anything? Or can Rahm move to Wilmette and govern from the suburbs? Can Chicago have an absentee mayor? That may be an interesting one for both future Justices and the Electorate.

Okay, the good. Rahm has a website fit for President Obama, but it may take more than voters to make it to a second term. Will there be an unexpected backlash in February? I admit that Rahm is much more organized. That is a fact and the disparity is obvious!

My concern: its just a matter of law. What was done to the Illinois Municipal Code to accommodate Rahm Emmanuel? This has lasting consequences and it needs to be challenged for future candidates. I don't believe that those consequences are 150 years old, as suggested. Burton Odelson is an accomplished election attorney; the Municipal Code was clearly and concisely presented. Waiver? I think that it is a procedural stretch. Judge Hoffman did not deserve the lashing from a Justice who claims to know what it means to be defamed!

The challenge with electing Illinois Supreme Court Justices is that when they are voted out of a job or decide to leave office, they often still want to work! That is why Illinois needs to reconsider merit selection. Also, the appointment of Justices for life with the right to resign. Thomas, among others, needs find a job after this gig is over! Who do you think wrote those briefs to the Illinois Supreme Court? The future employers of clout, perhaps? Judges who are free of such concerns, and have the consent of both parties based upon merit are often more objective while on the bench. I don't suggest corruption; I suggest human nature; conscious or unconscious, pure and simple! This decision helps confirm that merit selection makes sense in my opinion.

If the public could care less, then voters can easily be careless with their votes. Who, other than attorneys, read the Chicago Bar Associations Judicial Recommendations? How many voters actually study the judges or download that CBA form? Our ballot is one big amorphous mass of names to sort through! Even I admit that I have trouble without the CBA Cheat Sheet!

If Bob Thomas is the most Anglicized name, then he is elected. Of course, the name of a Chicago Bears Football player who punted his way into Superbowl History can carry carte blanc. This is particularly among suburban season Bears Ticket holders and remote control jockeys. Now, Justice Thomas, among others, have made their mark on Illinois Municipal Political Law. Did Rahm ever meet Bob Thomas when he was younger? Look, the decision does not sit well with me, even if I eventually learn to appreciate the rationale. There is no doubt that I must accept until another case comes.

Imagine, I can now spend most of my time in Boca and return to run for political office in Chicago as I please. I may not be elected, but I can be an 'absentee candidate.' This, as long as I am a snowbird in waiting and the voters are infatuated with me. I need not be 'domiciled' and 'dwelling' in the City of Chicago. All I need is a Chicago address and a tax return. The right celebrity can broadcast on the internet after upgrading the botox, nose job, skin peels, tummy tuck and liposuction. Every school teacher and city employer ever required to reside in Chicago should be seething with jealousy.

I think it was a mistake for the Justices to ignore all of the words in the subsection of the Illinois Municipal Code. However, the vote was unanimous. There is no difference between the right to vote and the right to be a candidate. That is why I will have to read past page four to figure out what the hell just happened!

Summary: Perhaps, too our Justices strive for the charmed silk stocking law firm life after tiring of the job. Where is Patrick Fitzgerald when you need him? Again, this jury is still out, but the excerpts remain unconvincing. They read like a bulldozing litigator on speed in my opinion.

I'm looking for rationale, Justice Thomas, but then, again, you outrank me and you wear a Superbowl XX Ring! Perhaps, it is law on a shoestring. I am now obligated to read, perhaps re-read, the next 21 pages with care, contemplation and objectivity. However, Burton Odelson's brief and the Hoffman decision deserved careful contemplation, not clashing condemnation. The decision was no way to treat fellow Judges!

Are there any others licensed to practice law who also think that the Maksym Decision was a Supreme Court mulligan? Is there a desire by Illinois Justices to spend more time at Medina, or in meditation? Either way, as Rahm goes to the final round, I must wonder whether he will turn into another Mayor Michael Bilandic? Will the next Jane Byrne please prepare herself?

How about that $6.1 Billion Budget and the $654 Million deficit?Will we sell off the Water Department next and forfeit its quality based upon dummy-ed up records for political consumption and public poisoning? Perrier anyone?

The Teething of Inner Jealousy: From a Political Voyeur's View. Rahm and Charter Schools

2011-01-28T08:13:00.005-06:00

It is difficult to watch a candidate, who has lived much of his life in Washington and the North Shore Suburbs run for office. It is upsetting to view his comments about sucking up money to substitute Chicago Public Schools with Charter Schools. My children left private school to attend public schools. It was a conscious choice. It is one for which I have no regrets. Yet, as I read Rahm's chatter about Charter Schools, it seems ignorant. Rahm seems out of touch with our neighborhoods. I can see it in his political rhetoric and position papers.

Rahm Emmanuel is an incredible politician, who has a deft control of his opposition. Strangely, I don't view myself as his opposition. I just wished that he followed the rule of law. He has not dwelled in Chicago within the last year. I wish the that Illinois Supreme Court could have taken a step back and looked at the Illinois Municipal Code with reasonable reverence. However, that is no longer reality.

I have watched the pride of the Chicago School System belittled and underestimated by Oprah, among others. The challenge is parenting, not the schools. Taking the substandard funding from CPS and turning it over to Charter Schools is a mistake.

I know in my heart that Charter Schools are a mistake. The control over learning, once removed from public control, can be manuevered to such an extent as to minimize its effectiveness in order to seek a higher profit for those who work within it. We can ill afford to turn our schools into babysitting services. Chicago needs to find a way to deal with absentee parenting and children birthing children. It will not come from teaching absentenance, but understanding and reacting to reality. These are facts that many politicians politically sidestep.

In Rogers Park, CMSA, that is the Charter School known as Chicago Math and Science Academy on Clark struggles to avoid being viewed as a babysitter service for wannabe gangsters. Kids who lack structure at home, can lash out at those who they know the least; their neighbors. Many of us remember the shootings of a CMSA Student on Clark by another. Perhaps, it is an unfortunate anecdotes to a coming age.

Here are my questions. Does the City of Chicago amass records of violence at Charter Schools? How does it compare? Is there a trend showing that those expelled from public schools are having their impact on the Charters?

My teething sensitivity over this, among other Chicago issues upsets me. Yet, I had a reckoning. I am no more than a political voyeur. I comment, I prophesize, and sometimes I can explain what may be difficult or frustrating to explain for some. Perhaps, it's too complicated for words. Sometimes, its simplistic and sophomoric. Occasionally, I misunderstand, like all others willing to accept it.

The 25 page Illinois Supreme Court decision isn't the issue. I predicted several days ago that Bob Thomas would write it. I feared that politics would dictate a reversal on procedural grounds. The decision seems based upon the failure to object and preserve the issues, perhaps. The scathe from the newest Maksym decision appears like it was written by an upper end law firm and locked in place by the Illinois Supreme Court. I was not surprised. There was meant to be a distinction, but politics steamrolled over reason.

Chicago has four insubstantial candidates, some whom have actually lived in Chicago for the last year. There is another who maintains a residence of convenience for his political aspirations. Yes, a permanent abode, but not a home that has dwelled within for the past year. The storage of personal property was not meant as a sacrifice for physical presence. I am unaware of any candidate for Mayor of Chicago that has ever spent so little time in the Chicago before an election.

Our Mayoral Candidates are career politicians, who seem too pre-occupied in their ivory towers to appreciate the differing needs of Edgewater and Englewood. These politicians carry populist, not practical agendas. Everyone knows that compromise is always on the table, but few appreciate that the dollars spent are often an indicator of where they are from. There is a functional disconnect from the City that I was born in. I have physically dwelled nearly 27 of my 48 years on this earth, like others who have similar insight. There is more to Come.

Well, I think that Rahm just bought it

2011-01-27T18:31:00.000-06:00

The Illinois Supreme Court, that is, and that is just plain sad to me. This sets a poor precedent. The law was clear and the Supreme Court just bent it, but not like Beckham, IMHO.

When high powered law firms can plow our judiciary, we begin to feel that our State is falling to the lows complained about in Texas and West Virginia.

What comes around, goes around. This seems disrespectful. The decision is based more on media hype. Perhaps, I'll have to read the decision and adopt another inconsistent opinion. However, The Court of Appeals seemed extremely pursuasive. I found the Lampkin dissent more questionable.

Will Rahm's 2011 Candidacy be Embalmed upon Our Ballots or Our Memories?

2011-01-24T16:13:00.005-06:00

Rahm has bought himself an appeal. The First District has held that Rahm is not a Chicago Resident for candidacy purposes based upon two decisions:

In People ex rel. Moran v. Teolis, 20 Ill. 2d 95, 169 N.E.2d 232
(1960), a party argued that a voter residency requirement should be extended based on the policy embodied by a precursor to the
Municipal Code section now at issue, which provided, as it provides now, that a candidate for municipal office be a qualified elector and have resided in the area at least one year preceding the election. Moran, 20 Ill. 2d at 104 (discussing Ill. Rev. Stat.1957, ch. 24, par. 9-87). The supreme court answered that the statute "differentiate[d] between 'electors' and those persons who may qualify for municipal office." ***." Maksym v. Board of Election Commissioners, 404 Ill. App. 3d ___ no. 1-11-033 at p. 9 (1st Dist. January 24, 2011) [citing Moran, 20 Ill. 2d at 104].

A mere constructive resident has no better opportunities for knowing the wants and rightful demands of his constituents, than a non-resident, and is as much beyond the wholesome influence of direct contact with them.
*** In [the candidate residency statute] the language is not, shall be a resident, but it is, shall 'reside within' ***." Maksym v. Board of Election Commissioners, 404 Ill. App. 3d ___ no. 1-11-033 at p. 13 (1st Dist. January 24, 2011) [citing Ballhorn,100 Ill. App. at 573.]

There were two laws; one covers voters and the other municipal candidates. Candidates must not only be an elector (voter) but also reside in the City of Chicago. To quote:

These two qualifications are stated separately and in the conjunctive. Id. at 14

A constructive resident is only capable of retaining their right to vote, not serve as Mayor. Unfortunately, the politically appointed administrator did not want to read the laws, so it took the First District Court of Appeals. This is one more reason why we need an independent judiciary. I don't know that elections or merit selection solve this dilemma. However, does Bertina Lampkin, formerly with the night narcotics court appreciate what has happened in this case. In a word, 'clueless?'

When politicians become judges, they hopefully learn to be come objective and independent of the political powers that exist. Robert F. Kennedy Jr.'s riveting documentary of the West Virginia Coal mess demonstrates how special interests can destroy the integrity of public office. How will Rahm's Superfund be spent? Will he help Chicago or hurt and cast dispersions upon the independent judiciary?

Rahm should 'take five,' as in five years of residence in the City of Chicago. Maybe he can actually learn something about the City that Works. Perhaps, his kids can attend the Chicago Public Schools, not The Latin School nor based upon clout. For those legislators who had the insight to enact an amend the Illinois Municipal Code 65 ILCS 5/3.1-10-5(a) (2008), who are still alive or beyond. Thanks, we needed that!

Good luck Carol, Manny, and others, we will have to hope that Justice Bob Thomas, among others, won't punt. Thanks to Justices Hall and Hoffman, who had the courage to care about Illinois law.

An Incredible Lightness of Brain or What? Who is the Rahminator for $25?

2011-01-07T12:25:00.000-06:00

It disappoints me that those who should run from mayor, won't run. Does it really cost that much? Will it cost you more when corruption creates disruption?

Those who often now run for mayor have less credibility than ever. This leaves a potential void and vacuum. The two Mayor Daley's worked within the States Attorney's Office. Washington practiced law in Chicago and served for years as a credible representative of Hyde Park.

Danny Davis is gone. He was a former alderman, postman, and current U.S. Representative. He lived in Chicago for decades. Well, his staff could not figure out the search engine concept, so no one could donate online. This meant that Rahm website showed up instead of his. Yeah, type in "Danny Davis" and we got Rahm's linked adverstisement. As a result Danny's Staff made him appear less competent due to this tech glitch. It was not a money thing; Danny did not know how to campaign in the 21st Century!

Now, the front runners, and one questionable exception, Del Valle, are all that remain on the ballot. Danny Davis felt that Carol Mosely Braun reflects his mindset. Perhaps, I agree, but not based upon anything other than the fact that she has been in the area. The Rahminator just isn't here.

Rahm waltzed into the U.S. Representatives Office after Rod left to seek green pastures. Yep, Rod's misrepresentation to authorities led to his undoing to date. Who knows how many times Rahm did the same. It is called prosecutorial discretion, I guess.

Rahm served in the same District that brought us a Republican, Michael P. Flannagan, that ended the 'reign of Rostenkowski.' In its wake, the Democrats were too ignorant to foster enough contact with the public to train and spawn a credible candidate. So the District served as a vacuum for a nearly lifelong suburbanite named Rahm. Rahm brought Mayor Richard M. Daley the suburban financial power needed to overcome the opposition. Rahm claimed that he was somehow a Chicagoan due to a brief stint as a toddler at Anshe Emet before his family moved to Wilmette. He moved to Chicago to work for the campaign only to end up in Washington, DC for most of his working life. This included his rise to U.S. Representative, where he had questionable appreciation for the needs of urban Chicago.

His time with Federal law, not the inner workings of Chicago Municipal Government create issues. He is an outsider, who has upset many Alderman, lawful and unlawful immigrants, and Citizens that he seeks to represent. He has stabbed holes in the political emotions of others with his raspy rhetoric. He appeared divisive and counterproductive to the Federal body politique. Now a bunch of Chicagoans want this type of politician to serve as our mayor? Or is the money coming from some DNC fanatics.

I just don't understand. Why will any Chicagoan's put our City in jeopardy just for a name? Who will we get next, Minister Farrakhan? Reverend Meeks? Why has the Democratic Party alienated so many Chicagoans from running for office? How can it stop mismanagement at the public trough? Yet, enough of us know that both the Green and Republican Parties are no viable option!

Heartland Cafe Crisis - Fundraiser on 10/10/10 & 10/11/10 - Deadline Looms!

2010-10-09T12:07:00.000-06:00

I just received the down low on the Heartland Cafe from rogerspark.com. After years of taking this inspiration for granted, and the rejuvenation it brings, it now has a bit of a challenge. I remain fond of breakfasts on the veranda, so that I expect to be there for a few days in hopes of reviving my memory.

In the interim, it will have a needed fundraiser with an event this Sunday, October 11, at 7pm and repeat on Monday. For more information, use the above link. If you have some gems of wisdom for Michael and Katy, then e-mail them at michael@heartland.com or katy@heartland.com.

I hope that those in the neighborhood with a heart can help Michael through this challenge. As some may know, The Heartland Cafe did a significant revamp of its restaurant in 2009. Many of us have seen similar challenges in recent days for other reasons. Our efforts to avoid debt vary with the size and type of our businesses. I regret that I know of them, but have not had the chance to speak with either in decades.

Maybe a bit of networking is in order for all of us.

Charmer's Garden Makes Local News, while Joe and the Rahminator Ponder the Mayoral Election

2010-09-09T21:38:00.001-06:00

On the eve of Rosh Hashana, a new genesis. As Craig Gernhardt re-pots, The Charmer's Garden emerged from a temporary hole in the ground created by the CDOT. It was a stroke of brilliance in the midst of confused shock, Dan. You are not to be completely faulted. Joe has presented it as it is.

Hindsight is always 20/20. However, who can fault mother nature and manicured green spaces? Will someone be passing the plate at the next Rogers Park Garden Group Fall Treasures Sale to help offset and support this adventure? Is the contractor bilking the City? Or is did the contractor simply have to delay pouring plans and rent new molds for a different curb type at an additional cost? As it is written, Location location location!

Dan and Joe both mean well. I think most of us realize, including Joe, that the garden is a better idea. However, you can't fault Joe for the response and course of action taken after Dan completed his thesis on political theater for Bandito Gardening 101. Hindsight is always 20/20. Dan did not think to ask until the patch of earth opened up like the Dead Sea. It is unclear if Moses would approve. However, Joe knows the $2Gs is worth the improvement on that corner. That area just keeps getting better!

FWIW, if those of us from RP had a choice, I hope we'd choose Joe Moore over the Rahminator in a mayoral election. Rahm Emmanuel grew up in North Shore's prestigious Ramona and New Trier finishing schools. Rahm's first few years at Anshe Emet nursery school and kindergarten were dubious moments of residence presented in Wikipedia. However, Rahm ascended and took over Rod's old throne, which is now run by Congressman Michael Quigley

The reason why Bill Daley chose Rahm Emmanuel in 1989 was for his alleged suburb connections to raise funds for Friends of Bill Clinton (FOB). The rest is history. Of course, his educational pedigree helped. Since then, Emmanuel shoehorned himself into Chicago politics after Rod left a void in that Congressional District once reserved for Dan Rostenkowski. Most of us know that there are too many Chicagoans, who are in better touch with Chicago, than Rahm. The Rahmeister has lived on the Beltway and should stay there. He knows how to schmooze and can continue to lobby. He should have challenged Kirk for his position, but that might have proven too difficult in a world without Abner Mikva for so long.

It makes sense that Bill Singer and Rahm Emmanuel have ties, since both seem to have an awkward opportunistic streak. However, it is unclear that Singer could have done better in that mayoral race with Hizzoner without Jesse Jackson's support. At least Singer spent much more of his life in Chicago.

However, suburban money will back Rahm unless Chicago politics can somehow limit contributions from outside concerns. For many of us, the disappearing act of Richard M. Daley does create a void encouraged and arguably nurtured by the DNC. Now, the consequences of incumbency are clear. Will we have another Hillary Clinton type election in Chicago with an arguable carpetbagger taking center stage?

I really don't think that Rahm 'knew Jack' about living in Chicago, even when he served as a U.S. Representative. I'm glad to hear that Daley will not do a Dick Devine and endorse a questionable candidate. Well, I almost did. However, I changed my tune and my vote to Anita Alvarez days before the primary when suddenly it became clear that Milan's candidacy was going nowhere. He began to appear more like Burkett and less like Milan.

However, even if Joe runs, and he should seriously think about it, I see Fioretti and perhaps Danny Davis as serious threats over Rahm. Joe may want brainstorm with David Orr, among others on the North Side. Joe will need to seek Evanston and Schakowsky for support, as well.

Rogers Park Garden Group Meander on Tuesday, July 27th

2010-07-18T21:27:00.004-06:00

The Rogers Park Garden Group will have its Annual Garden Meander on Tuesday, July 27, 2010 from 6p.m. to 8:30 p.m. The walk starts at Touhy and Ridge to be followed by a catered reception and lecture at St. Scholastica High School near Fargo and Ridge.

Although this walk is for members only, membership is only $10 and can be paid through the website. Usually, membership can be paid at the events. However, I'd suggest you check with the Rogers Park Garden Group volunteers and its website. The Rogers Park Garden Meander is a nice way to spend a weekday summer evening. It can help you to know members, who are also neighbors that can provide good garden tips.

The Group may benefit from having the Meander on a weekend. However, I understand that the Meander is still well attended even though it is during the week.

Rogers Avenue: Advantage or Disadvantage? Who controls the pursestrings?

2010-07-17T15:56:00.008-06:00

To those concerned with 7300 N. to 7500 N. Rogers Avenue:

I have walked nights on Rogers and live nearby. Pottawattomi Park is filled with children and the Off duty police officer helps, when the Park District pays for it. The Park District claims it will bring back the Officer after an approximately three month hiatus.

The commercial strip by Damen looks seedier than it is. Residents have to act like they belong.

People know me; they see me, and this makes a difference. Residents are welcome; riff raff isn't. You just have to be a little more tolerant at times. The challenge is often with those who don't live here, not with those who do, with minimal exceptions. We have a commercial landlord at Damen and Rogers who occasionally repairs, but refuses to reasonably maintain the commercial strip. This is what spurs neighborhood embarrassment. This is not a sellers market! However, this does not mean that the owners should sit on an eyesore! Michael Land, his predecessors, and the Alderman are aware of Damen and Rogers. It is debatable about what can or should be done about the situation.

Apparently, the owner has pie in the sky ideas about the value of the property, so it does not sell. It's a teardown! Perhaps there are ties to businesses and "The Ho" that lives in the area. I am sure that there is some neighborhood loyalty to "The Ho" and rightfully so. However, if The Ho won't go, then the building should be reasonably rehabilitated, not randomly redecorated. At least it is no longer pepto bismol pink!

Maybe the commercial strip owner wants to maintain the place as a potential movie set. Perhaps, Sanford and Son, The Movie? Or perhaps, "The Blues Brothers Part II: Urban Blight Ain't Right!" I just don't know! They should should shape up, or sell out!

As for Glencoe, been there, done that.

On convenience and diversity, I can walk to the corner bar, coffee shop, red line, Fish Keg, Jamaican food joint, Romanian Kosher deli, etc. Why would I want to head north just to live on an acre of grass? The suburbs are full of pale faces, who try to keep it that way. The north shore population of approximately 5% Asian, 2% African American, 3% Hispanic just does not cut it for us. I know my neighbors. We all have our 1% that need an attitude adjustment.

Of course, the RP Pace Bus picks up a from stop that is 100 foot walk. And the beaches? We have them! If I want to go to your Fourth of July parade, I just drive 20 minutes or take the Metra north.

The suburbs: nice places to visit, but I would not want to live there. For me, the advantage is in RP. You just have to understand and appreciate it.

The Vote: Say it ain't so, Joe!

2010-04-10T19:05:00.002-06:00

Did you vote today? Did you feel like those who volunteered even cared who voted? It appeared like every mother's son from the suburbs and than some could have voted. Of course, "the vote" was a good faith gesture, or was it? I was never asked for identification.

The cost of those signs, some of which were stuck to an SUV with a Tinley Park High School Sticker made me wonder. Was this simply another ruse to lift Joe's political image to 49th Ward voters?

Again, I soured on the decision by so called election judges not to bother asking me for identification. Anyone could have easily brought in an entourage. I did not see Joe anywhere. Say it ain't so, Joe?

Starved Rock, The Eagles Tour, and an Eagle Tree Gets the Chain Saw.

2010-02-15T19:16:00.012-06:00

After about two hours, give or take, we arrived at Starved Rock Lodge to see whether the eagles had landed. A buffet at 11 a.m. was followed by the Starved Rock Trolley car call. The son of a WPA worker explained how the Starved Rock Lodge was built, while he drove us to see the eagles at the I&M Canal Center. The I&M Canal ranger showed us a movie and gave us some eagle statistics. This was followed by a trip to the Starved Rock Visitors Center. We got out of the Trolley to see the eagles from the opposite side of the River.

The view of the eagles on Plum Island in the Illinois River was rather amazing. Over twenty eagles were perched in one location. A few had enough energy left to soar above and around the locks in spite of the cold temperatures. However, trying to photograph eagles from about a mile is challenging with a compact camera, even if it has a zoom lens. I understand that the eagles may migrate north any day with little notice. Yet, they can stay as long as the fifteenth of March.

This was followed by our tour guide waxing about liability from lawsuits. Apparently, a homeowner feared the wrath of raptor madness on his lawn or corn field. You would think that an opportunity to charge a fee for such eco-tourism might thrill some locals. Unfortunately, it seems that one Utican thinks that Corboy and Dimetrio of Bob Clifford have investigators perched in the cliffs ready to document and sue every landowner on Illinois River with an eagle's nest and a kitchy billboard.

As a result, this led to the destruction of an eagle habitat. A tree that was being used by eagles for nesting on private property was cut down. Perhaps, like a good neighbor, the Audobon Society, Nature Conservancy, and State Farm can intervene and explain the facts of life.

It seems that such things as assumption of risk and the legal challenges to slip and fall lawsuits are unknown in these parts. Also, the fact that State Farm, among other insurance companies, own their own law firm to challenge questionable and valid claims. Maybe, an insurance companies can consider a discount and get some good PR!

Well, it was a good trip. We got out of the house and into Starved Rock State Park. It could have been a trip taken for the cost of gas and toll. However, we learned that the I&M Canal Center's Eagle presentation, with movie, is given exclusively to those who book the Starved Rock Lodge Eagle Trolley Tour. The Lodge is worth supporting and the $25 per person fee was not much to ask for. We didn't even have to stay the night!

On Starved Rock, Plans and Polaroids.

2010-02-14T14:30:00.008-06:00

Eat! Not that! Your fangs aren't made for corn chips!

You bitch, stop dominating the cat, he does not work that way.

Hey! What are you doing! get down!

The Doritos are picked up to prevent that gagging sound after an adventurous mutt has gourmet tendencies. The cat, once it breaks its canine chains, rebells, only to be lowered from the kitchen counter. The long awaited dog walk looms with too little gas in the tank to make it worthwhile.

Now, while simultaneously planning for the day trip, the rush to Costco to fill the tires before six! The four day Lincoln/Washington Holiday is almost over with Valentines Day nestled in for good looks, but no seclusion or much selection for that matter. It looks like OpenTable.com will be my salvation, perhaps Dengeos. Will she remember that kids are not supposed to go to Valentines Day dinners?

Our plans to take off for a day, maybe a night, as well, could not be more tentative, even if reserved. This will be the second time that we have planned to see the eagles soar at Starved Rock State Park this winter. The first attempt was clogged with emotional congestion, sleep deprivation, and a decision to abandon plans. We are starved just to get out of the house in the antique minivan.

The kids are getting older. We aren't getting younger. I continue to persist on those yet to be taken voyages as the kids reach rebellion. I reach for the pomegranate juice, goji juice, and occasional dram of 'the water of life.' A few of the many efforts to find the fountain of youth complete with Lipitor. Well, at least my blood sugar is a pleasant 108! The heart rate also seems well. This is in spite of limited of exercise and a contemptuous diet. The occasional deviation to China Buffet, The Fish Keg, Gullivers, Hophaus, or Sabrin A Sub will not impress a cardiologist. The svelte physique, once worn, is in need of a comeback.

The walk up and down the heights, corners and crevices of Starved Rock may help a bit. The brisk breeze will hit our faces, our hands will be mitted, and we will scour the treetops in search of Haliaeetus leucocphalus.

My significant other has wanted to see the Starved Rock eagles grace the branches and cliffs of Utica, Illinois for a while. Unfortunately, work limits play. Our weekends may once, again, return and we may be a family. As a result, the eagles have never landed onto our schedule until now.

I have this sense of guilt every time I take the kids to some wonderland while the other half is tending to the ill. When we express what we have done, there is a subtle sense of envy eminating. This can put a chill on the moment. It had kept the kids in check for a while.

I'm unsure whether there will be a good photo op. However, I am bringing the Nikon Coolpix S70, anyway. This is the third or forth generation of digital cameras in a long line of broken crystals and malfunctioning lenses. Hopefully, we will land a few photos of the brown and white feathered raptors that will calmly caress our vision on Monday.

So does anyone else have any interesting plans over the weekend, other than those high points that Valentines Day may or may not create? Does Rogers Park have a family or two, who spent the weekend in tow? Are the empty nesters just going to nest in front of Apolo Ohno and wonder, "what happened to my kid?"

Obama, Don't Take it Personally, Kirk Wins, Bernstein Almost! Bottom Line: Fight for Seal

2010-02-05T07:06:00.007-06:00

I am a non-partisan, but as an independent observer, Giannoulias has a challenge for many reasons. First, he is a newcomer on the political scene. He just became Illinois Treasurer and is six years younger. He has significantly less experience and credibility than his challenger. Of course, he has the hard to pronounce Greek name, as well. I can just feel the Opaa, which can scare off voters, even if I enjoy Greece and Greek Culture!

What clinches it for Mark Kirk is that he is viewed by most as a moderate, even if some try to challenge. It will take brains, not brawn, to beat him. Frankly, the current Democratic Strategists seem incapable, incompetent, and presumptuous!

Would I like Giannoulias to win? Likely. Yet, he needs to review how to present his platform on the issues. I just don't think that his current team can do it! In an election bound to bring out the worst in some Democrats, Mark Kirk will get the nod. Voters won't necessarily come from City limits, but will come from everywhere else. The City does not 'currently' have the drive to get out the vote for Gianoulias. The lawn signs and leaflets taped to doors 'turn off' voters!

There is not currently enough interest in this election. The voters are not voting in droves. The 'populist Jewish name' garnered more interest than the most recommended Judges. Even the recommended arguable Jewish surnames like Bender and Greenspan were overlooked by actual voters! Mary Trew, a qualified candidate, nearly lost her election to the least competent candidate, Bernstein. Subcircuit 9A became a circus of political irresponsibility. Yet, Bernstein got his name out!

Bernstein, who is an Evanston Councilman with supposedly little or no recent experience in Court, per ALL lawyers organizations, beat the experienced. Bernstein nearly took the election. He could have been a member of the Socialist White People's Party. It was a near Democratic disgrace. Bernstein should have never run, IMHO, but he had the right to run! It was his choice and his supporters went all out! Perhaps, Bernstein should have run against Gianoulias! This election is one more reason why merit selection of judges should be reconsidered!

That said, the Dems have to look at realistic options. Danny Davis, among others, could have run for U.S. Senate! What are these Dems thinking? Why put out the ethnic name of the son of a dubious banker, whose bank is allegedly in hot water? Yes, Hoffman came out as the reformer. Unfortunately, he appeared to have little experience and limited name recognition. His stint trying to clean up Chicago politics was an obscure fact to most voters. He was a political lesser known 'Jim Thompson' looking to be a somebody. He ran against a politician with limited experience, some name recognition, and the political machine firmly behind his opponent.

Gianoulias and Scott Lee Hooker err Cohen remain mistakes, but not disasters, even if they lose. Now, its time to regroup or concede, but carefully build support Seals, because Dold is on the war path! If Dold appears like a moderate, then Seals' loses! The Democrats must find a way to be civil, not pushy. You can't send pushy Fuller Brush Salesmen door to door on the Northshore and expect to sell voters. It backfires like 'greasy kids stuff' at a '1970s Happening!'

There are more effective ways to reach Northshore Voters without upsetting them. Dold has firm backing from moderate groups that can make a difference. If the Democrats, including the DFA don't get the message, then the Northshore will dump Seals like bruised goods. Yet, few want to see someone like Seal with such drive simply crash, burn, and get slaughtered. This comes from someone who has lived on the Northshore for their entire life.

Yes, Seal has a chance. Learn how to circle the wagons, not pitch a match on the kerosene that lights another backfire.

2010 Primary - One of the Few No One For Office Moments

2010-02-03T07:19:00.002-06:00

As expressed, I was nauseated by this primary election. I expect this November to bring more of the same. Lawn signs on locations creating blight for month until someone gets sick of the Bernsteins, Gianoulias', Lubys', Nubys', and Doobys'. Isn't there a better way?

When in doubt, don't some might say. For me, I was happy to learn that the most publicized, was unqualified and did not win in our district. Yet, Mary Trew was no angel with her lawn signs. Her gang decided to take turf from St. Scholastic and so it goes.

Life at the Lake stop. At 8

2010-02-02T20:05:00.001-06:00

Just another fringe benefit. Living in Chicago is dense but intelligent. I am looking 4ward to a morning off work on Friday plus Free Shakesphere on Navy Pier tickets courtesy of CPS. Slainte!

-- Post From My iPhone

A few photos from Sunday at Leone Beach

2010-01-31T21:00:00.000-06:00

Politcal Waffle Boarding Descends on Rogers Park.

2010-01-30T13:01:00.005-06:00

I don't mind political waffleboards as long as 'my family consents to the boards being on our lawn (my sentiments aside). This is the name that I call the plastic cardboard corrogated political signs with the metal prongs. What some call freedom of speech, but others call political propaganda, urban blight, or trespassing depending upon perspective. It is to blindly persuade those who are waffling over who to vote for, not for those who really care.

Yet, when people live in a shared community, such as an apartment or condo, I don't think that one should nail heels on the native's feet to quote George Carlin. It seems rude and arguably counterproductive without the consent of the tenants, ownership or management.

This is a bit different than wheatpasting an anti-nuke poster over ads on a CTA Platform. Albeit that might seem to some like a lesser form of civil disobedience, even if it is a petty criminal offense. Is there any justice in this synthetic plastic encroachment?

Of course, a political waffleboard is not as harsh as waking up to graffiti on the brick wall of your home or apartment. A political waffleboard has the essence of blind partisanship that presumes or disrespects what others may think. The name for name's sake mentality is an unfortunate fear of politicians. So they foist their name on the electorate in fear of their opponent. It is a rather anti-FDR-like gesture. Apparently, they fear "fear itself!"

Why should Chicagoans tolerate non-consensual Freedom of Speech encroachment on private property. There are too many candidates/supporters who neglect to ask for prior consent! The city has an easement on the parkways, not our political hacks. If 'waffle-boarding' was a strict liability crime, then I realize opponents might remove and place the signs in the most offensive locations for the sake of screwing their opponent. Of course, doing so might backfire, and get the opposition elected. Am I missing another equally reasonable perspective?

Rogers Park Garden Group Sale on Sunday 10am-1pm

2009-09-21T22:22:00.005-06:00

For those who remember my false alarm, this Sunday is the day for the RP Garden Group Sale. The place is in front of Charmers and the entire Sidewalk block down Jarvis. There should be more than a few bargains.

We hope that the weather holds up. For those who don't know, some insist that plants grow better if you plant them when its raining/wet out. Now, I appreciate that there are not as many souls who will brave the wet climates for the sake of their plants. However, this is the weekend for the sale.

The RPGG does quite a bit of sprucing up, which includes the Rogers Park Station. There will be more to come if we can contribute and support to this worthy organization. Of course, if you can't come, go to the meetings and check out this Spring/Summer's Garden Meander. Here is a link to some of the photos from the last 2009 Garden Meander and 2008 Garden Sale.

The Skewed Crime Blotter for the Northshore

2009-09-21T21:18:00.004-06:00

The actual crime statistics are not reported for the suburbs. For four months, the Chicago Tribune's blue metal box remained damaged at Chase and Ridge. The Headline exposed a 2009 triple murder in Wilmette. This was on March 3, 2009. The suburbanite who had already committed a double murder, now took his own life and that of his wife and kid. Several months later, the Tribune/Redeye seems to deny that these homicides took place. What else have our Chicago Newspapers forgotten to tell us about actual suburban crime rate based upon the census? Must the City folk not hear about North Shore homicides? It certainly reports Chicago statistics to the suburbanites!

Out of respect, we contacted Mr. Swartz. This was the response:

"Thanks for the e-mail. Unfortunately, I just track and write about homicides within Chicago city limits. The Tribune and its suburban editions write about crimes in the 'burbs."

I appreciate the comment, but if you look at the map, Mr. S., the article includes homicides reported in Evanston, Lincolnwood, and Park Ridge. The article just cuts off the inquiry! Objective journalism? Dubious reporting? Does the Redeye attempt to puts its toe in the proverbial suburban homicide pool, get wet, and pretend the statistics don't really matter?

As the Morse Hell hole occasionally belches crime, the burbs bury it with bravado! We don't hear about the large scale drug busts. Sometimes, we hear about the Rezko's. Is the goal to keep suburban real estate values up? Do racial and economic barriers keep crime out? Does the decision to create schools with 99% white students benefit society (e.g. Braeside School, under 1% Black; Highland Park)?

Having lived in the north suburbs, I can assure the Rogers Park public that the smell of reefer still levitates on Glencoe and Highland Park beaches and golf courses from time to time, among other locales. The ability to enforce the laws diminish with the number of officers available.

From time to time, there are fights in the High Schools. Usually, the discipline is limited. The kids don't seem to want anything more than to vent. There were a few large cross High School brawls. Police break it up as is done in Rogers Park. Perhaps, fewer see a need for guns, because the police don't seem to care unless crime is open, obvious, and regular.

Yes, there is less, but in proportion to the population? I would wonder whether we really fare well in Rogers Park. What is our population? What is the suburbs population. Will Wilmette have a higher murder rate than Rogers Park this year? Why not!

The House on Mango St, Those Who Don't, Lethargic Real Estate, and Rogers Park

2009-07-11T20:38:00.004-06:00

I get the impression that 'those who don't' want to know any better just don't know Rogers Park. Other than a few malt liquor drinkers and litterpigs, we see little on our Beat. This is not Englewood, but I am sure that Englewood has its 'pleasant pockets.'

I have no doubt that drugs are dealt in RP, but it isn't my job to deal with it. I have no doubt that drugs are dealt down the entire Northshore, but on more discreet terms. It is difficult to label every pop, a gun, when most are fireworks or cap guns. I may groan about minor issues, like inconsideration, because there is really not much to snipe about.

The few aberrations in our densely packed neighborhoods are truimphantly reported by our neighbors 'in over-blog.' Some report crime as if it was some sort of calling to eventually live and witness it in Rogers Park. I don't have time to check the Bearcat scanner; I let someone else live that life. I am sure that most in the suburbs have little time to scan and trumpet the 'Bearcat beat' either, so events are under-reported. Its not like mob action does not occasionally happen in the suburbs.

Its been over eleven consecutive years in Rogers Park and countless others since the early sixties. It is the City; sirens go off, but most are for heart patients en route to St. Francis. Those who triage the tragedies find those easier to spot than the triumphs. Truimphs are not reported to Police. Politicians often, not always, report propaganda. Perhaps, there is solace to blame low real estate sales on minimal crime, rather than the economy or lethargic real estate agents.

How many of us walk by the real estate 'for sale signs' and recognize signals of stupidity? Earth to condo crumudgeon; if you want to sell your condo, then pick up the trash around it! Note to real estate agent, hire a neighborhood kid to pick up the trash on the hour, every hour. Thought to neighbor, if you want to experience new, more thoughtful neighbors, then pick up the trash when you walk your dog! Maybe a change of scenery is good. Find neighbors who care by giving them something to care about.

Those who blame those with fireworks may have to discuss their disgust with Chicago's Finest. It seems like priorities do not include fireworks until someone's eardrum ruptures or a finger gets blown off. Of course, at that point, an arrest must be made, if possible. I've always thought that a 'controlled burn' could prove amusing, provided, adults were actually mature enough to supervise their kids. We may agree to disagree.

What is daily life in your Rogers Park neighborhood? How many of us routinely pass through the Terminal at night? How many of us routinely experience the night air, unabated? How many of us treat those around us with respect, rather than looking at neighbors as if you are their next victim? I thought the expression was Live and Let Live until the Ian Flemming twist!

Of course, back then, we did not see enough color unless it was on tv. And, of course, the suburbs see less to none until you hit North Chicago! Imagine, an African American President and a nation still subtly segregated. The issue is why? How long will this B-S- go on? Is there something that plagues those who treasure immediate pleasure over the Puritan ethic?

Are there fewer opportunities due to a propensity to arrest and convict those with more melanin? What does it take to awaken and respect those who deserve better? How can neighbors subtly encourage parents to treat their kids right and encourage them to do more without pissing them off?

What prevents success from doing more for the neighborhoods? Should success creep North, take a holiday, or can it work from within? Are there some that find a Rogers Park shabby chic existence worth justifying an economic downgrade for other residents? Does picking up a little litter really raise property values? Or does it improve our attitude and outlook?

How many of us remember the old Spike Lee films, when folks move from Black and White to the colorful existence of Central Park, free of all images of trash? Where is the love?

2009-05-30T17:06:00.004-06:00

Rogers Park Garden Group will hold its 3rd Annual Garden sale. Last years sale had a silent auction and many contributors. If you have plants to donate, want to join the group, or simply want to meet those with similar interests, then stop by. Unfortunately, the group chose to locate this sale where near it meets at the Prebyterian Church on Greenleaf. Past sales have been in front of Charmers on Jarvis. The Charmers location is a much wiser choice. (maybe next year?)

Usually, items are eventually discounted, but you may want to arrive early to avoid what has been picked through. The Garden Sale helps support locally sustained gardens at the Metra Station, among other places in the Rogers Park Community. The Group meets at the Presbyterian Church at 1434 W. Greenleaf near Greenview.

An Ode to Anonymous

2009-05-24T14:00:00.009-06:00

There is no chuckle, no abuse, which comes from one who flew the roost. A writer who goes "anonymous," takes the fifth, but spews their rift. They’ll hide behind the orifice of some ill-begotten Thor and piss. They criticize, irrelevantly; that callous bash to wound a knee. They want 'the groan and McEnroe,' but often have just lost control.

They use no pen name for identification, but hope their thread caused aggravation. I regret to inform anonymous that chatter trying to batter doesn't convert to splatter. So when those who anonymously assume, post a verbal boom, act fast, don’t fret, they may simply not get enough, yet.

Well, anonymous, when your testosterone make you so hot, to smoke and blow at someone's lot, then pull a porno, bang the bed, just don’t let loose on someone's spread!

No hard feelings, I hope?

Howard Terminal Parking Lot Empties After Price Gouge

2009-05-22T23:49:00.007-06:00

Standard Parking has once, again, outdone itself! It doubled its prices to $4 a day last January. In doing so, it simultaneously did little to solve the complaints. As a result, vendor Standard chased away many except for the abandoned and dilapidating cars. For those who climb the lot's staircase, the space seems like more of an intermittant urinal. Yes, I have repeatedly called and complained! Have you?

For $4 a day, who wants to do a waltz through an area that smells five fates worse than McCormick and Oakton. The unanticipated stench pierces the nostrils and may trigger the gag reflex. Of course, this pigeon palace leaves a few cars with an array of hood ornaments on departure! The elevator becomes the preferred route even if it takes a minute longer. Yet, even that area can also turn into a sudden cesspool with little abatement.

Does Standard Parking's HR Department do due diligence? Do these people really care who they hire? Does maintenance regularly and reasonably sanitize? I feel like the rent-a-rogues would rather play with their cell phones and sleep than monitor and report the piss fiend. For all the cameras confronting each nook and cranny, it seems like security remains too lathargic to care, coordinate, and confront. I find some asleep when I pass the front desk in the evening. Yes, the sleeping spells are sporadic, but it took several knocks on the glass before I woke up one rent-a-rogue during his night shift.

Is the price right? Given the walk, I could use the exercise, but the bus is just a quarter. Who still parks at the Howard Terminal?

High and Low Rogers Park Area Affordable Restaurants for Service Only

2009-05-05T23:45:00.004-06:00

This list covers all Restaurants that are accessible and affordable. This is not the most appetizing, but the ones that deliver. How many times have you sat and waited for eternity. This list may be a go to list. Disagree? Then comment and I'll investigate with stop watch in hand. I will likely start updating this list, because I am tired of the current state of Chicago Area Wait Staff.

We need to support good wait staff and encourage the poor to improve. Otherwise, the gems for food simply go out of business.

The Good Mid Range with fastest on top:

1. Ruby Tuesday -- (Lincolnwood Town Center) Salad bar quickly quells, food comes soon after. Not the epecurian delights that follow, but efficient when your quacking stomach demands attention.

2. Chilies - Evanston - Its sad, because Chilies does the job based upon service, speed and choices. We prefer other local RP restaurants. We should be able to get served appetizers at Hop Haus sooner than it takes to drive, order and be served at Chilies.

3. Heartland Cafe - Rogers Park - The nachos come out quick and usually satisfy long enough for the entre delay. Perhaps, this has improved.

2. Merle's Barbeque - Evanston - 'Usually' efficient enough. Use http://www.opentable.com/ and you will be seated upon entry!

3. Lucky Platter - Evanston - On Main. People go for the service and the choices. Good, not great, but efficient eats

4. Chilies - Evanston - Its sad, because it is the pick me up speed of service that is why we go; we prefer other locals. We should be able to get served appetizers at Hop Haus sooner than it takes to drive, order and be served at Chilies.

Honorable Mention - L. Woods (Lincolnwood), Red Lobster (Lincolnwood Town Center) and Dixie Kitchen (Evanston)- the bread comes quick and can quell, but the food just does not come out as efficient on a consistent basis.

The Disappointing (the worst on top)

1. Jamaican Jerk - I have not been back due to the delay in at least four years. I was tempted to walk, but felt compassion for the owner. Good meal; slow as tortoise soup service. I may return for carry out.

2. Bakers Square - Rogers Park - In my humble, many are disappointing. My last trip in February introduced me to Melissa; I found her to be a disaster on 2/28! I hope she improves.

3. Hop Haus - Rogers Park - Good food Service was slow 2 out of 3 trips to date. Love the burgers, hate the wait. Beer usually efficient, but not perfect. Please improve!!! Wake up the wait staff.

4. Leona's -- Rogers Park - Great food Service is slow except for bread and spread, but often the bread runs out and you want to lick the tomato sauce out of the container due to the delay for dinner.

I have not included all the options. Obviously, China Buffet is instant gratification. Also Dengeo's of Skokie is a pick up and sit with no wait staff. Both are efficient options without an inconsistent staff. Bravo is quick, but in a higher price point; my choice over Chilies if not concerned on price.

Overall, is it me or has the quality of wait staff at many places dropped way too many notches in the last few decades? Where do you go when you need an efficient restaurant server? What's their name? Where do we find them?

The Rogers Park Armageddonist

2009-04-08T19:51:00.004-06:00

About three summers ago, she suddenly disappeared. Perhaps, she lurks and perks, but I'm not there. Whether I was pulling out of the garage, taking out the garbage, or cleaning up, she rode slowly by. She looked like she was in her sixties. Perhaps, she was younger, having replaced her imbibing with another less hedonistic philosophical view.

There was the fire and brimstone theory on rapture folllowed by the accept it or be lost mentality. This bicycle riding armageddonist would drive her rather aging rusted Schwinn bicycle as if she was being followed by the four horseman of the apocalypse.

This rather rambunctious and regular display of pessimistic armageddonist smugness travelled unpredictably through the alley for about three to five years. Sometimes, she might skip a year. She seemed to completely disappear when things seemed to calm down in Rogers Park.

Perhaps, she stopped taking medication. Maybe she just grew out of it or moved to another church.

Disney Magnet Kicks Butt on ISATs. Beats Braeside in Highland Park

2009-03-31T22:16:00.002-06:00

I just went to www.greatschools.com. I am ecstatic. The kids at CPS - Disney Magnet on Marine drive nailed the ISATs. They out did the suburbs. Don't believe me, then go to this link. Compare and contrast. There is no need for private schools in Chicago, when CPS has options. Albeit, if your kid cannot get into Disney, then consider selective enrollment.

Also, for those who feel that they must move north; consider Rogers Park, when it makes economic and educational sense. All I can say is the proof is in the pudding. All the rest is commentary. The test scores at this point don't lie.

Is the Grass Always Greener: Wilmette 4, Rogers Park 0 - Murder Score Board

2009-03-31T12:53:00.005-06:00

Well, what can I say. In our dense Chicago Neighborhood, Rogers Park has netted 0 Murders for the first 90 days. [Citation: ClearMAP]. On March 1, 2009, Wilmette, another sparse North Shore pressure cooker for people in search of beating the Joneses scored 4 murders. It was a 'mad dad' combo, but an unfortunate one. Certainly, lower in body count than the Laurie Dann extravaganza. However, Mr. X was as certifiable as the Folks versus People fight down Morse last December. I can't stop reading about Wilmette in the broken Chicago Tribune box at Jarvis and Ridge. Calls to Trib 2, Action on Broken Box 0.

What does this mean? I know that some of us may thrive on fear and frustration. We want perfect surroundings. In the last seven years, two of my clients were murdered; one in Highland Park; the other in Wheeling. One was a permanent resident; the other a U.S. Citizen. The living spouse was originally living in Rogers Park. However, the deceased spouse was murdered by someone from the suburbs. The Wheeling crime remains unsolved; the suburbanite suspect likely 'lawyered up' or fled the country.

I am convinced that our grass is always greener in another neighborhood mentalities tend to be the most outspoken. This is not to say that there is room for improvement. Why not take a closer look at where we live and begin work to improve on it. Volunteer for Glenwood Arts, visit Biz Arts Programs, and see the newly redesigned CTA terminal, which recently re-opened the North entrance. I admit that City living may not be for everyone, but certainly suburban life is not, as well.

Maybe this Gateway between the City and the suburbs is worth the wait! However, there is room for everyone who treats others and themselves with respect. And that's my Opinion.

Freddie Put a Load on Rahm Emmanuel: Revolving Trust?

2009-03-26T08:52:00.002-06:00

Obama was once stranger to Chicago until he built trust and was elected to the Illinois State House. Rahm Emmanuel was also a stranger, but had the Daley & Clinton stamp of approval. Blagovich? I dunno . . . Tribune sources tell us that 'the Blagman' allegedly ripped off restaurants as an NU student. A proving ground?

Obama earned the right to run, only to network with what evolved into classic machine politics in Chicago. Should Rahm's decision to serve as a Board Director for Freddie Mac and allegedly suppress financial troubles be an issue? What should the phrase "revolving door" mean? Did Emmanuel have divided loyalties?

We can only wonder whether the other shoe will drop for Rahm Emmanuel; perhaps, others. Does our Mayor have as much respect for his law license as he claims he has for Chicago? I hope so.

Was the $320G payment, err salary, by Freddie Mac to Rahm Emmamuel a de factor advanced payment for his Congressional Election? Are Board of Director appointments of political personas done to appease lawmakers? Why are bills supported that create more of a mess? Was Emmanuel's appointment to the Freddie Mac Board a plume for lobbyists to generate compassion in Congress and prevent indictments?

One can only wonder what the intelligent voter thinks? Or will it be another Rostenkowski primary election moment for dyed in the wool Democrats? Some dubious 'Dubya-like decisions' just won't go away. If so, why put our Nation through an Italianesque political soap opera?

Rahm resign! We need a more virtuous virtuoso. Why is it that politicians seem to sell out to the highest bidder? And what about the repeal of Glass Stiegel? Was that dramatic act simply a political fait au compli' for Wall Street Lobbyists? The Tribune article encouraged this inconsistent digression to North Side politics. Read all about it at http://www.chicagotribune.com/.

-- Post From My iPhone

Tolerance from the intolerant. How people insult without knowing

2009-03-18T19:32:00.003-06:00

I'm not out to nail phylactories on my neighbor's sideburns. Judaism is a faith as is any other. It is a tree of life for those who cling to it. I respect those who have faith and those who question it. However, I am disappointed with those ignorant enough to show brazen verbal disrespect. The latter should rise above and overcome their ignorance. Otherwise, they act significantly less than saintly toward me.

Many who have faith may choose different paths to reach the same destination. Some of us 'do the right thing' without expecting an afterlife as a reward. That said, the Reform Movement welcomes all those with an interest in learning about Judaism. However, we still respect those who choose to believe in another faith.

Some in Rogers Park struggle openly with their personal demons. In doing so, they 'should' avoid prejudice in the form of rude evangelism. When you tell Jews that we are damned, you express pure and unadulterated anti-semitism! Although the concept may seem foreign to our faith, there are no is no excuse for this vile form of bigotry. Those of us who believe in G*d need not be tormented by those who have forgotten "The Golden Rule." That said, my staff happen to be Muslim. Perhaps I'll eventually hire an athiest, because I judge people by their deeds as individuals.

Bigotry through ignorance comes when a few outspoken pastors within our community forget the the five books of Moses, when they present mass. The moral lessons from the Torah (referred to as 'the old testament' by those who focus their faith on the Gospels). Jews are not damned, we were delivered out of the land of Egypt with an out stretched arm. The Jewish faith does not focus on the afterlife, we focus on the 'here and now.' We want to make life better for all.
Shalom.

-- Post From My iPhone

The Morse Theater Just Like That

2009-03-18T19:26:00.001-06:00

I really wanted to see tonight's show, but sometimes you just can't tempt the id within. Your superego has to take control. You just say no to temptation. There will be no Freudian slips tonight.

I think that we all want our moments, but compromises are made. You create trust. You take a rain check when you use up enough 'spontaneity' cards and remain responsible. I head home on the walk down Rogers.

I will have see Doug play on a different day, perhaps, at a different venue, at another moment in time. I will have to settle for his mp3 in the interim. I hope The Morse gives us another chance.
-- Post From My iPhone

Word of Willis: Crass English Co. Raises Bar for Bad Manners; the Donald has More Class; Will Sears go Willis.' Will the Mortgagor Please Stand Up.

2009-03-14T00:10:00.014-06:00

Sears is more than a mail order store. Although bought out by K-Fart through the use of financial smoke and mirrors in my opinion, Sears was a Chicago legend. Julius Rosenwald and others built the catalog department store giant. In addition, Rosenwald was one of the most amazing philanthropists in history. Sears is a historic Chicago name, so the tallest building in Chicago was aptly identified. Therefore, I appreciated the message addressed Willis and illustrated in the Tribune "Taste of Chicago" on 3/13/2009. In a nutshell, word Mr. Plumeri, renaming an American icon with a British company's name is obviously beyond nauseating!

This power move goes beyond the renaming of Marshall Field. In Chicago, architectural namesakes are usually honored. The John Hancock is still 'the Hancock.' That insurance company built the Michigan Avenue icon remains its namesake and to this day. The Inland Steel Building is the same. The Steger Building is still aptly named. Wrigley is still Wrigley and Soldier Field is still Soldier field; so it goes. When Chicago names a significant architectural treasure, the Song Remains the Same. Now, Willis Holdings wants to spoil the soup.

You would think that a gentlemen, who live in the nation that made Led Zeppelin would not sink to such depths. This 'Yellow Submarine move' makes for nasty drama that may continue to submerge in Parliament. This dram deserves to take another course on the sweeter side of the Highlands. If Willis can afford the Sears, the question is what sort of ego runs that place? What sorts of loans or crackerbox palace is Willis Holdings? How leveraged is it?

How many times have we seen banks and investors expand a business based more upon smoke and mirrors, then reasonable adherence to GAAP? [General Acceptable Accounting Practices].

Why do we allow companies 'to PacMan up' the competition only to watch banks fail and Congress bail the bastards out? Why do we tolerate monopolies? Fiscal responsibility, anyone? Who really bought the building, any way. Who provided the mortgage? Does the Mortgagor have any clout?

Will Willis belly up and leave his legacy foisted upon Chicago's landscape? Who owned the Sears in the past? How can our nation preserve the namesakes of national landmark architecture? Willis did not build the Sears from the ground up? Should we really care? Or is this a property issue, where egos rule and residents drool? This reminds me of the Simon and Westfield Mall Saga. Do these so called brand names degrade local landmarks like Northbrook Court, Old Orchard, or Lincoln Towncenter?

Is this a ruse to create enough nausea? Is this a plan or intentional design to sell? This is like changing the name of Picadilly Circus to Ben Franklin Plaza. Just say no to ego! We can only hope that the bank that financed isn't Bank of America, Chase or Citibank. Of course, our illustrious legislators stifled the expansion of Illinois banks until FNB of Chicago among other icons simply merged into near oblivion. Crumpets anyone?

A Tale of Two People

2009-03-13T22:12:00.004-06:00

I just learned from James about Stu. I knew of Stu, since Stu was like an Otis of sorts. Otis from The Andy Griffith Show. Stu was a guy in his mid to late fourties, who looked like he was well over fifty, but was one who allegedly liked to drink as he waltzed down the sidewalk.

I saw Stu, but the one time that I approached him, he was belligerent. I eventually saw Stu collapse at the corner of Ridge and Chase about eight months ago. An ambulance and police had to lift him up from the pavement. Stu tried to avoid going with the paramedics. Perhaps, it was a pride sort of thing. Stu had a drinking problem; I can only speculate why. I was just told that Stu died two weeks ago, allegedly from cirrhosis of the liver. I cannot confirm the diagnosis. It was told to me, third hand.

I have another acquaintance, who is currently more sociable from the burbs. I don't know that he drinks much. I really don't take issue with his orientation, if different, nor care. Some other long time acquaintances sounded the alarm on that poor guy, as well. I delved. What I found surprised me. Apparently, someone loaned him money. When he momentarily took a sabbatical from Facebook, loose nerves developed. I did some research. In a nutshell, the guy seems nearly unemployable; I hope not. His only hope may be that someone who he knows from the past is willing to trust him. We don't need another Stu.

For those who read the Chicago Red Eye earlier this week, convictions hurt; particularly those that involve fraud. Those with convictions are often un-employable. They are also poor risks to banks. This guy who I went to grammar school with had a record that would make anyone who knew him drop their jaw.

The Cook County Court history seemed extensive and suggested a pattern unless his name is common. First, business and personal debts turned into lawsuits. Then, there was forceable eviction and detainer. Eventually a slew of bounced checks and intentional check writing on bad accounts. The criminal convictions lasted and built a bad track record. Of course, there was jail time, some rehab, but now he is borrowing money from a new group of people he used to know, some who may still respect him. However, he has to break the pattern, not us.

Now, back to RP, I heard that Stu had lived in our neighborhood for about 14 to 16 years. I heard that he was also evicted from an apartment on our block. Perhaps, Stu may have also done time for a few of those acts of desperation, but maybe not. Of course, when he had challenges with work, he just turned inward and could not undo the damage, so his liver was stewed prunes at autopsy.

I am critical of those who drink while walking down the sidewalk. I mean, if they cannot wait until they get home to imbibe malt liquor in private, then they may have gone beyond reviving without the 'twelve step,' among other options in de-tox.

There is good public policy in discouraging people from opening and downing the OE from within the glass bottle. Why does the city ignore our public alcoholics, when they beg for attention? Is public drinking a cry to get negative attention? Why do we pretend that this is acceptable conduct, find amusement, anger at it, or ignore it? How should a community approach public alcoholics? How should we approach those who lost their way? Should we ignore them or approach them with our eyes wide open but with care?

Eula Biss, The Trek, Vulgarity, Old English, and Scattering Vegetables. Commander Kirk, Spock here. Can we Transfer Some Tribbles? Section 8 Anyone?

2009-03-08T22:54:00.014-06:00

NPR was on. A Northwestern scholar, Eula Biss, who has just written her latest tome, No Man's Land, waxed about Rogers Park Bloggers, among other arguably nasty neighbors. I agree and disagree with some generalizations released outside of the publication on WBEZ. The ignorant are not always evil. The European immigrants may be occasionally foolish, but not necessarily vicious or intentionally vile in the classical sense.

Some native Chicagoans respect our African American neighbors. Yet, we all have our moments of ignorance or insensitivity. These fleeting moments are shared by our darker counterparts. Perhaps, some of us are occasionally too sensitive. Some neighbors are significantly nicer and/or more reasonable than others with lighter complexions. Yes, Eula, there is some ignorance and occasional white trash in our midst. Perhaps, everyone has momentary digressions into ignorance. We have stopped the car and I walk the fifteen minute trek to and from work from the Howard Terminal, when I miss the 290. The bike is looking better since bike racks were added by the Terminal.

Not all RP bloggers, among others, are divisive bigots or racists. Yes, the "P" word, as in pioneer, is a bit shortsighted and ignorant. Just because I experience the perpetual pigeon spasms above the fiberglass shelters at the old Terminal in the 1990s. This does not give me special dispensation.

Yet, I have heard worse from the few who are ignorant, yet carry darker complexions and less noble mentailities. Yes, not everyone walks the streets with Cobra or Old English in their hands. However, where are Chicago's Finest? Doing the donuts or sparking up at Starbucks on Howard and Western waiting for the next arrest or mop up job?

Why have an anti-open liquor ordinance, when cops refuse to enforce it let alone comply? Why have an anti-grafitti, anti-dog poop or an anti-litter ordinances, as well? This is not gentrification; just an issue of good manners with under funded red tape rituals. Call it, the faux grae fallacy. There is a reason why the Municipal mavens do not want me waltzing with my Wallbanger, yet it will not arrest me. Police seem content waiting until some alcoholic flattens his nostrils on our pavement. Swagger control? Where is it when we need it?

Black or white, I have seen both varients in need of detox and a well attended twelve step program or rehabilitation.

I mean, we have heard of the other notorious letter. I avoid bigotted terms, even if the late yet great Richard Pryor and a few of my less sophisticated neighbors use less than fine language, daily, along with other epithets. The kind that nauseate Rogers Park parents with young children.

If Jews avoid the "K" word, the Irish avoid the "M"word, and Italians avoid the "D" word, then why do more African Americans encourage others to cease using the "N" word and crass language? Why do some, of a variety of differing complexions derive power from cussing loudly on the sidewalk. Do any of us need that kind of attention? Often, the ones that cuss are saying virtually nothing when you remove the vulgarity! Why can't we just shut our mouths when we have nothing good to say?

Some refuse to address and chill the more active vegetation growing within our own community. I make no racial distinctions, here. It would nice if Gale School educators, among others, look for options as well as pastors. Why? Do African American Comedians, among others, get special privileges to be abusive?

I'm just as disgusted at Jackie Mason, among, as well as those few obnoxious neighbors. Frankly, why use words that belittle someone or simply distract others? Are we laughing about ourselves or are others laughing at us?There are amusing ways of discussing our differing ethnic rituals or social experiences without defamation.

Rogers Park will get better, when there is more economic diversity north of the Central Street Border. It will also require some reality on the part of those up north who are too foolish to enjoy Rogers Park. Perhaps, those who are too ignorant finally move in and stay a while.

Can you imagine an economically diverse Deerfield or New Trier High School? Not on Kirk's watch! Any comments, Eula Biss?

Is RP Broken Heart - by Invitation Only? Did you Make the Hellhole Cut? An Epitaph for Public RP News? Too Much Optimism? Is the Morse Still Open?

2009-03-08T19:29:00.019-06:00

Today's Challenge is finding Craig's Blog restricted after my two week hiatus. This restriction notice bars my access to Craig's Hellhole. Does it bar yours, as well? Many of us, including Craig, are embarrassed or unreasonably scolded in public in one blog capacity or another. Therefore, some create and use anonymous user name with consistency.

My wife is friends with a famous Chicago area garden blogger. My wife remains anonymous on the other site with the author's consent even if they are good friends. We are just too busy with other amusements and responsibilities to spend as much time on Blogger. Craig is our fearless loss leader.

A few of us try to grasp at privacy, but vent angst. We let some know who we are, who we meet, but we don't see as threats. Perhaps, they forget because they are too busy or we lose touch due to their blogularity. At times, my words deceive my intentions; sometimes, they don't. Occasionally, we are mistaken. That's why I encourage comments, so I can correct and reasonably retract. So much for consistency! I discourage hatred.

Over the last week, I definitely know that I would prefer 'to live' in Rogers Park, then not! It was wonderful when that skyscraper sized meteor missed the Earth by 44,750 miles! The stock market is no where near the tragedy of that potential cataclysm. Internet news suggests that the North Shore no bastion of cleanliness or safety, either. In the last five years, there are as many beggars on Maple Avenue near Evanston's Century Theater as Wabash and Adams. Streetwise, anyone?

When people verbally attack others, not their actions, then bloggers, among others, can get upset. I choose to attack the actions of others. Yet, I have made fun at the expense of a few public figures. I don't want enemies nor think anyone should have them.

I hope that the hypocrisy ends. Unfortunately, I fear that Craig the Brokenhearted has become a statistic. He wanted us to feel the occasional frustrations of living in Rogers Park on Morse by the Redline. Perhaps, he is too frustrated with being personally attacked on the blogoscape. Lines of communication are a good thing. Taking the Broken Heart private is unfortunate, but I can live without it if I must. Those of us in the private set want the privilege of reading Craig's materials in peace and reasonably comment without having to second guess every gesture on the street.

Craig's roving reporter, the equally anonymous Timmy almost seemed mystical as he appeared on BH last December. He was like some sort of Christmas Carol creation fit for the Broken Heart's Glass Menagerie (e.g. Tiny Tim). The neglected Sullivan H.S. student yearning to explode onto the internet. The not so nice news rationalized why Sullivan is a low performing Illinois High School. Those who want to learn will find their place within the CPS system, private schools or simply move out.

Epitaph?

Craig, you fascinated me. I read about a local do-gooder who 'allegedly' refused to pick up after his dog. I don't know if the proof was perfect. However, Craig, our nosey but necessary neighbor, was our advocate. He was willing to let us know what he believed, when most of us had no clue. For those who have picked up the dog crap after others, we were amused. I hope that Craig ultimately encouraged the suspect to 'blue bag it' and comply with the ordinance.

Craig also promoted his pet projects, like landscaping the more challenging blocks of Morse, only to find a beer bottle buried near his begonias (correct me, Craig?). His challenge with the less than canine friendly cops. He also exposed some of the weak links at DevCorp and had his Bearcat scanner on perpetual alert for his neighbor's curiosity. We can only hope that DevCorp and Moore shape up, wake up, or get replaced. Many of us wonder whether complacency will continue.

We learned about Craig's famous nephew, who raced his motorcycle around Europe's motocross circuit, among other exotic places, in search of fame and fortune. The double team of Gerhardt and Mannis raked Rogers Park ragged with their guts and glory. I hope that Craig has not left for Kentucky.

I would discourage Craig from ostracizing Rogers Park Residents merely because they prefer a user name to disclosing their personal identity to all. Craig also has the right to re-invent himself with an anonymous blog. Craig has enough evidence to confirm that he lives in Rogers Park. I hope that he'll trust me to keep his identity private, as well.

I believe that Madman Mannis of the Rogers Park Bench disclosed that now lives among cheeseheads of Eastern Wisconsin. I guess that his ears are elsewhere, even if he reads and writes about us online. Perhaps, Mannis has nothing better to do in cow country. There, the cornrows are stuck in the ground, not roving the sidewalk on someone's head. I have even seen a few nordic looking blonds with tattoos wearing them. You don't see that much diversity up north!

Apparently, things are tough in the big city. Instant utopias are unrealistic. You have to work for positive change, where needed. If it doesn't come as quickly or at all, then learn to live, understand and perpetually improve your neighborhood where you can.

Some of us discreetly photograph, when our digital cameras are in the shop. Others, find images to convey our concerns and promote information even if it is less than attractive. Some of us see more positive on our streets than others. Sometimes, we act, not alarm those around us and the results comfort us more.

It seems like cronyism to restrict information. The subject should always have a chance to reasonably comment. In some situations, privacy makes sense. Yet, a blog that aspires to devote itself to dispersing local news should not exclude locals. This is particularly true when it is unlikely to cause danger to the writer. Craig, I don't bite. My four legged, two foot long 'beast' just growls and whines, when other canines pass by. She doesn't bite, either, even if she is nuts.

Well, I never saw myself as one of Craig's public enemies, nor wanted to be one. However, I seem to have been tagged for removal. I guess that I was too optimistic for the Hell hole to bear. Perhaps, too private to pulsate. I hope that I am mistaken.

Does anyone know if The Morse is still open? Maybe, I'll get that long awaiting dram. Perhaps, Gernhardt has some time to promote the watering hole.

Return of Blagula, Part II. The Bite on Burris

2009-02-24T15:26:00.007-06:00

Well, it looks like a vaccuum looms. Roland Burris is now the next politician that Blagula has permanently sucked the integrity from. The bite of Blagula is now less than golden. The only concern is whether the next next nominee proves equally afflicted. Too many have been named or rose too fast to avoid the obvious conflict. Therefore, a quick conclusion; those who donated, sucked, or offered to suck blood for the Blagojevich treasure chest will raise questions. Anyone named by Blagula should be required to run for office at this point. Will Creature Features continue?

Well, now we have have it; the 'Transylvania Twist;' According to the Washington Post:

"Burris repeatedly changed his story about how he was appointed. He is facing calls for his resignation after he admitted trying to raise money for Blagojevich. Burris has said he did nothing improper. He refused to comment after his meeting with Durbin."

I understood that our politicians knew that Burris donated $20,000 to Blagula prior to its decision to bestow the beef to Burris. Now, Durbin and Quinn have done 360s on Burris. This sort of "do as I say, not what I do" 'spastification' by politicians creates a bazaar credibility gap that you can fly a 747 through. What will be next? Perhaps, an election is in order? Is there anyone credible and senior enough among the Dems who lacks Blagula's bite marks?

Is there a conflict of interest that obligates an independent counsel to 'vet' all of Quinn's nominee? Or will a 'might is right mentality' loom large, as usual? Is it good to be dah king? Will the Feds tap Quinn's power line? Should an Attorney General Madigan, who is poised to pounce on the Senate seat be responsible for investigating Burris? In egomaniacs we trust? Stay tuned for another episode of "As the Senate Seat Swerves."

Quinn the Populist: Noses like Reconstituted Pork and Sheep Dip

2009-02-21T22:58:00.006-06:00

How Clintonesque, Governor Quinn! You certainly possess Starr qualities. Why do politicians conveniently ignore facts at the onset? Now, we must rehash the obvious. No, Burris did not have sex with Rod. For those who did not know, Senator Burris, along with many other Democrats helped Blagojevich raise funds. Why? Because, he's dah king, but certainly not the brightest bulb nor are the others, either! Supporting Guv Jailhouse Rock was not something exclusive to Roland Burris. It was part of the public record that Burris donated $20Gs to Governor Sunshine. Now, Quinn and the media defrost the obvious. This was old news.

Now, suddenly, an opportunity arises for the Eskimo to get something 'golden' as our former Governor once put it. Quinn just can't resist getting his thumbs stuck in the plum pie. Horner, he is not. Quinn, don't say, "what a good boy am I!" We are tired of your plays for passion.

Everyone knows that that dramatic and outraged sell the most papers. Whether it's Papa Kass singing Springfield Dreamin' or some other commentator laying down his own track on this muse, one thing is clear, we need someone to represent us. Politics always seems to create sore ducks waiting to plunge. As some Democratic Ducks plunge the party deeper into the ice this winter, a psalm.

May we do away with excessive campaign contributions, campaign dinner overdrive, and ban pronged plastic signs pitched on our parkways. May we allow those to make buttons for candidates as a way to provide the little guy a means to capitalize. May we figure out a way to inform voters before they vote for some American or Irish sounding name. Do we ever hear IVI/IPO discuss the conflicts of interest and pan the detailed or vague positions on issues? May Illinois and all our our states earn an electorate that actually cares about something other than who gave them a free ear of roasted corn, a breakfast banana, or which candidate had the most good hair days.

Quinn the Eskimo needs to go back in his igloo and rethink his bold and cold rhetoric. I regret that the second shoe never seems to drop 'Fast Eddie' enough in Chicago or Illinois. Perhaps, Mr. Fitzgerald can teach us how it is done. Maybe, a few more politicians can stop stashing away their campaign contributions for the next election or an early retirement for that matter. Campaign deform has gotten no where very slowly. The loopholes were simply moved a little to the right or left. Does Quinn the kettle calls the pot black?

Governor knee jerk, again, bows to the tabloid ice cannons. LeBon's mind theory? Well, it did not work for Sly and the Family Stone in Grant Park and it is certainly creating a failing grade for Illinois politics. Is there a politician with a backbone in the House? Too idealistic am I?

Thoughts of a Cold, Mad and Impatient Rogers Park Dog Walker

2009-02-18T21:01:00.004-06:00

It is cold this evening. For those stuck with the dirty duty, some inspirational thoughts to think or verbalize to your precious pooch:

1. Purse your a** and let it pass.

2. Pucker Tucker and release that sucker.

3. Free that pee and let it freeze.

4. Flash your a** or get a rash.

Any additional dog evacuation cheers are welcome. Not that I can imagine my niece's cousin getting on the cheerleader pyramid for 'the beast' this evening. Perhaps, maybe the da*n dog will appreciate the pressing need to spend less time imersed in snow flakes and sub-zero wind chill. Slainte.

Know Your Enemies? Why?

2009-02-14T17:39:00.003-06:00

The word "enemy" left my mindset decades ago. I don't know who convinced me, but I excised this social tumor from my vocabulary. I may dislike what people occasionally say, do, or how they act. I may be disappointed with myself, at times. Those who oppose my opinion may be temporarily ignorant or I, the same. Perhaps, they are reasonable, yet unwilling to listen. Why consider those who occassionally disturb me, an enemy? We just disagreed or had some disappointing moment. Why not forgive and move on?

At times, it may seem silly to me how other people dress. I may dislike what some may say, do, or think on one topic or another. I may take offense when people forget to pick up after their dog. Someone may callously drop their Dorito Bags on our front lawn. However, why hate a person, when what they do bothers you, not who they are? Manners are fleeting. I hope that my children never despise, envy, or hate others. I choose to have no enemies. Frankly, I can't afford them. Are enemies for the more affluent? Are enemies for the more shortsighted?

There are probably people intent on labeling us. I hope that I never aggravate anyone, even if I agree to disagree on one issue or another. This is bound to happen. There is no one in any of the communities which I consider myself among, who I will ever consider an enemy. These folks may be upset and may demonize us. I may also feel overlooked, at times. However, some of us are more isolated at times than others.

I know that it is natural for all of us to be 'occasionally' envious, even jealous, of the success of others. This is particularly true when we are frustrated, but misdirecting hostility. However, I would rather overcome envy and learn from success stories. Also, share in someone's happiness without appearing like a leach.

There are times where I will be excluded. I will also appear to have bad mannners at some odd moment. Those who wear tinted lenses may criticize yet display the same unknowing flaws. We all leave our manners at the door, at times. I don't hold grudges. The expression "it is like the pot calling the kettle black" sums up the hypocrisy of life. Righteous indignation comes full circle, so I would rather be humble. I would rather make friends out of those who might consider me an enemy. Yet, I accept that regardless of my efforts, this may never happen.

Decisions are made and commitments, as well. The reason why I try to maintain my 'relative obscurity' is due to the less outspoken in my family; also the desire to maintain relative privacy. In the effort to reach out to old acquaintances and friends, I try to honor my spouse who thinks it important to be discreet. There is a tenuous compromise. There are people who fear others due to their obscurity. In doing so, they may choose to view us as enemies, rather than potential friends or good neighbors.

No one is perfect. I am sure that I occasionally upset others. Public examples of hypocrisy are embarrassing to public figures, but it comes with the salary. Only the most pompous are incapable of accepting and recognizing. I would rather work toward eliminating flaws. Impulse and unconscious actions are often misunderstood.

Hatred is alien and evil to me. The terms "enemy" and "hate" seem like terms for those who are incapable of burying the hatchet any place other than in another person's back. Two wrongs don't make a right. My hatchet is in the ground when I am done with the verbal woodshed and it usually stays there. If I am mistaken, I retract. Why miss out on opportunities due to petty indifferences? I am too busy trying to deal with the priorities in our lives then to consider anyone an enemy.

There will always be those who are unable or just won't care about us, some who are too busy, and others who will and express it. Why close the door unless there is actual danger, not just ignorance, misdirected enmity, or anxiety. Shalom.

For all the Chatter, News from Country Club Hills

2009-02-09T08:01:00.006-06:00

Rogers Park is a dense and diverse community. Its newcomers insist on a crime free existance. Its natives recognize that Chicago is getting better, but with a few bumps on the way. Some neighborhoods get bumped harder than others at times. Certainly, the school system re-orients itself. Devoted children and their parents find public school alternatives. Others rush to judgment by leaving or support the parochial, religious and private school systems. Life has its challenges.

People get jobs; people lose jobs. Gangs attract those in need of attention and more devoted communities and parents; Police arrest the thugs who are compelled to get too much attention or fast money, among other things. Life in a densely populated City has its bumps and bruises. It also has its advantages. Most of us find solace, when we improve our neighborhood, rather than dwell on every nook and cranny at every moment.

It is now nearly eleven consecutive years in Rogers Park, but twenty-two years on the North side. I have never lived in a community that had five murders in one weekend. I regret hearing about the five lost lives in Country Club Hills over this weekend. Rogers Park as a community should continue to positively re-direct those prone to randomly questionably provocative or violent outburst. Strangely, I understand that some who comment no longer live here. Good manners are not just the responsibility of politicians. Let's communicate, but try to work with Rogers Park Community Groups to improve the area. Running around with pitchforks and torches ignore challenges and create more chaos. Let's anticipate that if we are unwilling to enjoy what we have, then others may take that joy from us. Carpe diem.

When the warmth sets in, we can walk with those neighbors who want to walk. We can assist with the art festivals, garden walks, and home history tours. We can walk our beaches and bike the paths both north and south. We can elevate to the ball games. We can secure beach front for one reason or another in the early morning. We can enjoy our gardens, jungle gyms, parks, and zoos (yes, Indian Boundary and Lincoln Park).

If you are in Beat 2424, then you have a number of opportunities to leash the dog and head out with Bernard Garbo, among others. Meet your neighbors, act responsibly, take care of your block when others won't. Enjoy your surroundings, discover your options and above all, smile! We haven't had a Country Club Hills experience nor do I expect one. Life could always be better, but it is certainly good.

The Bag in the Sidewalk

2009-01-30T21:35:00.002-06:00

With the dog comes the walks. I get a unique vantage point as a dog owner viewing the minority who refuse to use a bag. The most visible is in the minority and he is one. All he has to do is ask for a bag. He seems clueless and does not know or want to know about the dog doo Ordinance. I am sure that there are others. However, at about 9:09 pm, I observed a black duffle bag.

The bag was left in the middle of the sidewalk. I don't see too many people leave bags in the sidewalk. This is a first for me on our block. At first, I was puzzled. I looked for someone to pick it up. Then my mind began to get a bit concerned, albeit moderately.

People were passing and ignoring the bag. A family of four walked right by with little children. I have seen one domestic disturbance at a different address, but the condominium was the sight of a foreclosure and distressed auction sale. Who could have left the bag and why?

For those of us with memories of 1996, we don't really want to relive them on our block. It was lousy enough that someone had a heart attack and died. No chances were taken. A call was made. Within 12 minutes police arrived.

Police cavalierly picked up the bag and opened. Contents: blankets. Investigation closed: lost bag inventoried. Happy ending except for the owner

To the Man on the Street about the Morse "L" Attack

2009-01-05T16:33:00.013-06:00

To Man on the Streets among other frustrated residents:

Most of us don't see much crime in our neighborhoods. We may see someone involved in an arguable drug deal, an open beer bottle, and the perpetual trash. We may see someone flash a gang sign and evoke anger. Perhaps, we experience little else other than never ending dog crap on our grass. We may find that the local apartment building lacks reasonable maintanence or some event happened while we were gone at work. Most of us are non-confrontational. We respect people's space, even if others have yet to learn how to respect our space.

If we approach the belligerent, then we risk misunderstandings. Some are 'hard of hearing' or simply 'want to hardly hear.' Diplomacy is a tender art best left to the experts. Whatever the issue, the Morse Street "L" seems like a textbook example of what not to do at 3:30 a.m. on New Years Eve based upon the blogs! Nevertheless, I sympathesize with the victims. Anyone can become frustrated and vulnerable after work at 3:30 a.m.

Some appear confused about when the crime was committed. A crime must be quickly defined and geographically pinpointed for 911 to get Police to react fast! The Morse "L" event escalated into an aggravated battery; the subjects committed the attack on CTA Property. See 720 ILCS 12-4(b)(9). However, perceived crimes were in progress before the victim ever reached the turnstyle.

It seems, in hindsight, unwise to report the crime until after there was physical confrontation. Perhaps, the victim should have reported the "assault in progress." Unfortunately, a decision was made to confront. The law requires a victim to back away from crimes in progress (assault, mob action, and trespass). Otherwise, a victim can become the offender. Of course, hindsight is always 20/20, but ponder these thoughts.

The victim 'may' have had other options. I am unaware that there was a report of "assault, mob action, and trespass in progress" before the Morse "L" confrontation. A criminal 'assault' is an event that puts the victim in 'reasonable apprehension' of 'receiving a battery. That is, reasonable fear of future bodily harm. Activity of an insulting 'or' provoking nature, such as confinement or restraint is often criminal, as well. See 720 ILCS 5/12-1(a), 5/12-3 and related law. Either crime, among others, are punishable by a maximum of less than one year of imprisonment. 730 ILCS 5/5-8-3.

A call to 911 for 'mob action, assault or battery in progress' should get immediate attention. Why approach the CTA turnstyle, when someone is committing a crime? Just report it! Unfortunately, the victim is made to appear 'unintimidated' in blog reports. The victim's alleged state of mind seems 'unreasonable' to me in hindsight. In approaching, he put himself and others at risk and escalated the incident. He 'might' have been arrested, as well, but the suspects fled, which is an arguable admission of their guilt. See 720 ILCS 5/12-4(a) and 12-4(b)(9). Perhaps, there were grounds to charge the suspects for a hate crime, if caught, but this is unclear from the blog reports.

Of course, if any suspect is ever arrested and arraigned as a defendant, then the judge or jury makes the final ruling. Locals have a right to pack the courtroom, do research, and provide morale. Residents can send advance information to the appropriate Assistant States Attorney ["ASA"], States Attorney Unit, or news agency. This is particularly helpful, when there is evidence of the accused defendants' propensities to repeatedly commit attacks. There is a place to research a defendant's record, if arraigned. Go to the 10th Floor of the Daley Center, if you want to 'mine data,' but beware, an arrest is not a conviction and neither is an indictment. Also, dragnets can happen. Ultimately, the ASA must prove that a defendant is guilty beyond a reasonable doubt and may dismiss a case.

When someone prevents passage through intimidation and looks like they won't let a passenger take the train, then a victim must decide whether it is menacing and thus 'an assault in progress.' Most reasonable people find it innappropriate to physically bar passage to a CTA turnstyle. When faced with an assault, you should report it to 911. An "assault in progress" should evoke immediate action by CPD. The alleged confrontation resulted after there was a 'reasonable apprehension' of receiving physical contact of an insulting or provoking nature with an individual. See Battery 720 ILCS 5/12-3(a)(2).

Of course, an Assistant States Attorney will make the final decision on whether to prosecute, as well. That said, a court can impose or revoke conditional discharge, supervision, or a suspended sentence. See 730 ILCS 5/5-6-3. This may depend upon whether the offender was provoked, etc. These are known as mitigating factors. Some mitigating factors may mean zilch to a Court as a matter of discretion. Also, there can be aggravating factors, such as a possible secondary charge of Mob Action (720 ILCS 5/ , among other grounds for arrest. The law requires a victim to avoid confrontation; otherwise, the victim can be deemed an aggressor and be charged for a battery, as well, as a matter of discretion.

My morals on the alleged Morse "L" incident: Two options: (1) carry a cell phone and call a taxi from Glenwood Tap, or (2) Call 911, repeat (if necessary), and wait for Police to arrive and clear the area. Let Police know where you are. Encourage them to provide safe passage onto the red line. There may be other options "man on the street." If we don't use them, we lose them, among other things.

Disclaimer: the above is general information not meant to be legal advice. Every circumstance requires a reasonable reaction based upon experience. For more information, attend your Beat meetings and seek assistance, when provided, from those who professionally teach others to avoid being a victim. Some crimes take two parties. Other crimes are difficult to punish due to demands placed on law enforcement. Don't turn yourself into a victim.

Dog Days of Winter; MacArthur Returns, Crap Abounds.

2009-01-04T22:47:00.004-06:00

The lack of posting can come for a number of reasons. I don't like to promote my traveling for a variety of reasons. We cashed in years of frequent flyer miles months ago. As a result, we took the indirect route to LAX via Nola for those who know LA. We arrived to experience the wrath of graffiti in Malibu and Oxnard California, among other CA locales. That was an awakening! No graffiti blasters there!

Man, what an education! Craig should travel down PCH and experience the situation on the ground. I understand that Malibu has its share of drug rehabs, as well. Of course, with a view that incredible, who has time to view the chicken scratch, among other things? I wonder if those in rehab reside at Malibu by day and head south to Venice Beach by breakfast? Of course, there is a Phoenix House right on the Venice Beach strip, as well. The belief is to immerse the rehabilitated right back into the crap that got them into their mess. Yet, life is a bit more optimistic over on Oxnard Boulevard!

Upon return from LAX via O-K-L-A-H-O-M-A, I stepped into mother earth and the debatable German Shepard's crap from the apartment dweller at 7333 North. Yes, I speculate based upon the size and past observations. That dog owner never seems to have a bag with him and moves his dog from squat to squat without a thought. Yes, home sweet home. I must learn to make light of the few folks raging about old news that took place before I left. Well, at least there is one arrest and a second one with an APB. Why dwell on the loss and sit on our hands?

Recent Outbursts - A Rap on Rogers Park's Poor Grammar

2009-01-04T22:35:00.006-06:00

What amuses me is the creative license that all of us take, some more than others, to mangle written English. Why contort words and sentences into a condition that suggests ignorance? Why should a writer display raging pride in their poor dicta? When is ignorance considered brilliance? I suppose when it makes a recording artist money. Frankly, All others need not apply unless they need the negative attention!

Of course, I must assume that a few of the pseudonyms posted on blogs like the Broken Heart come from those who post as individuals in good faith. Hopefully, we lack the sort of 'Sybil Dorset' multiple personality type that enjoys messing with the minds of those who respond! Is there a Flora Shreiber in the house? Craig, can I safely assume that Jammo, et. al are not you, Westgard, or Mannis, among others. Are personalities presented in an effort to envision some sort of opposing viewpoint? Revolution for the hell of it?

Why should poor English skills seem acceptable to anyone? I suppose that sort of display attracts negative attention. Also, it encourages unneeded defensive rage. Who wants to hire someone with such poor grammar? Perhaps, there is a niche, but most would rather hire someone who can speak a language, even if it is reasonably fluent Spanish.

Of course, 'rap' or 'slang' has always been in vogue among the radical chic who can cash in on it. Yet, in the last two decades it seems like some kids want to perpetually "dummy down" their grammar. At times, it may appear to some like a psychotic display. I suppose that some must create a cryptic code to share with an 'in crowd,' but the average joe thinks they may be on some other juice!

Again, it is one thing to publish a book or record an album that uses rap to commercially capitalize on a trend. Also, those who are less educated from the Bayou must express themselves in any way possible. However, those who have access to an education should not blatantly ignore the training. There is nothing prejudice or racist about expressing the above. There should be no pride in ignorance.

However, using words like "white" and "black," rather than French (e.g. Spanish, English, etc) or African (e.g. Ethiopian, Filipino, Jamaican, Antiguan, Cuban, Brazilian, Somalian, etc.) seems a bit racially motivated upon either complexion. Life is not that simple. Racists are not limited to those with less melanine. Bigots are of all complexions, purported faiths, and nationalities. However, all of us has a red tongue, so I suppose that we have to stick it out every once in a while.

Death is universal and heaven is an unreasonable substitute.

It is okay to contemplate, we are all capable of making ignorant inferences and statements, but live and let live.

Flashing in Public

2008-12-21T02:22:00.005-06:00

Murder is murder. Flashing in public is foolish. Having witnessed the hostility generated from such a transaction, it is difficult for me to completely accept the explanations given. Teens want to make statements just like the dude in the doo rag. Impressionable kids are programmed by folks and people to kill over spilled milk. It is not difficult to imagine that there is more to the story. Yet, I was not there nor were most of us when Isiah Stroud was stabbed, so speculation abounds. Why did Isiah run blood, rather than run? My hope is that more appreciate that life is sacred. Teens need to accept that restraint is often a lifesaver.

Cars 'usually turn around' when the wrong response is generated. Yet, fighting over foolishness is F-ed up. I have witnessed a stabbing in the past. The victim, a tow truck driver, acted like a fool, IMHO. Perhaps, Isiah Stroud could have avoided the pain regardless of the idiotic act against him, his family and his friends. Social suicide need not last a lifetime.

Disrespect never justifies the taking of another's life. Regardless of whether, we once lived in a world where the hotheads' dueled and sudden violence was a means of ending all shortsighted concerns over disrespect. If those who minimally disrespected or are disrespected die over a thoughtless taunt, then do they serve justice with the taking of life? Murder is immoral.

The psychological game of stupidity ends when more of the ignorant integrate with more of the intelligent. This won't happen until the neighborhoods and suburbs economically balance out. There are many more Chicago wards that need to accept scattered site housing. Of course, there are many suburbs too prejudiced to find a place for those who need to witness success that comes from something other than a drug deal.

Rogers Park will only improve if our Alderman, among others, appreciate economic diversity need not be strongly tilted in favor of the less industrious and skilled. People who will not afford to live in a neighborhood and fail to demonstrate appropriate sidewalk manners deserve to be geographically evicted to another ward or area for their next lease. However, few LEAs coordinate with Section 8 Housing Administrators to flesh out challenged families or refer them to appropriate agencies for attention. I wonder if this was a Senn-Sullivan thing?

Chicago's Finest Need to Focus - Craig's List Crooks

2008-12-21T00:52:00.002-06:00

I had the chance to review the 12/19 chatter on the bogus RP car sale to the poor cheese heads from up north. Think about it; asking for a money order or cashiers check from a bank is appropriate. When a seller insists on cash, then you are pretty much a walking porcelin piggy bank.
That said, no one deserves to get robbed.

The challenge is that Chicago's Finest rarely spend enough time to investigate these sorts of robberies unless someone is murdered. This is sad, because the next robbery can end in murder.

Other issues abound. There are many issues that Steans and other legislators rarely take up.
For example, for years, perhaps, decades, CPD evidence techs are without the ability to use flourescent fingerprint materials. Instead, they are limited to cheap-0 powder and the results are beyond pathetic. If you want flourescent, you have to summon the Illinois State Police based upon my understanding. Efficient internet investigation training? A pipedream?

All that Police need to do to stop it is to track the e-mail and the CL entry. The information from the Craigslist account remains on a hard drive. Criminals are dumb. Once the info is on the hard drive, deleting won't work.

This may be an arguably solvable crime, but getting police to subpoena CL or the ISP involved for the coordinates on the computer is pretty much the battle. Yes, other issues abound, but than again, sometimes it becomes a no brainer. Are investigators lazy? Do the right folks get the promotion?

Is there a Commander in the 24th District?

2008-12-16T11:02:00.006-06:00

Just curious. Once pronounced, it seems like the one annointed to serve and protect is conspicuous by his silence. Will Commander Sobczyk come on down?

Oh well, perhaps he has better things to do. I wonder if he plays the accordian and dances a good polka? So much for PNA Membership! Maybe he's some other sort of Eastern European. I guess I might have to FOIA City Hall to find out.

Its was a Wonderful World! Or was it?

2008-12-16T10:51:00.003-06:00

Did anyone go to The Morse for that Affordable Housing fund raiser with Its a Wonderful Life movie showing? Never got a reply from the charity. Could kids have gone? The URL was totally silent. To all those at the exalted http://www.rogerspark.com/ and charity please get all the facts from the sponsor. The movie is a cult classic, so we can't assume anything.

We could have brought the kids if they were $25, but at $50 to $100 a head, this becomes more of a Francis Parker, Latin, NCA or Roycemore oriented event. Many neighbors may not have $200 or more for those events where there are families of four. A cut off figure may be $100 to $150, but if the group got the numbers, then that is all that counts.

Some may have something to sell! We don't. Was this a pay to play event? Or a sincere effort? Perhaps, someone just dropped a few balls and thought a few hundred from neighbors with 2.5 kids was not worth the effort. So much for not for profit marketing in tough economic times! Perhaps, next year will bring a better effort.

Challenges of a Rogers Park Dogwalker

2008-12-16T09:55:00.003-06:00

We have seen the posts, whether it is from Broken Heart or The Inconsistent. The issue, what to do with the poop positioned on the parkways? As a dog walker, I know the answer: just pick up it. To all of those convinced that being lazy will work, just wait until you wallow in it.

Yes, late night experiences stepping on the parkway don't always do everyone justice. However, if you walk your dog, chances are you are more likely to land a sandal in it, if not a Sorel, or a Nike. Bags make the process easy. Rather than repeat, another 'blogspotter' has provided an easy to use online instruction manual for those so inclined. Frankly, a Dominicks bag will work and most will deify the deed even if it is not from your dog. It will also help if other neighbors keep track of those who cannot seem to 'bag it.'

Whether or not you canter with your canine, cleaning up, even if you it is not your puppy makes good sense. Scrubbing your shoes at the sink after the fact doesn't. Once you have stepped on 'DC' a few times or maybe observed the rodent population at a rare moment, you begin to appreciate Chicago's 'DC' ordinance.

If you pick up after your pooch, among others, then bring a few extra bags. You, too, can avoid misery in the future. Yes, we all should have a few bags to share. Perhaps, there is someone over at 7333 North Ridge, who could use an extra baggie. If you are out there, just ask and we'll answer. Bumming those doggie bags are easier to easier 'to bum' than a cigarette.

There is no excuse; Chicago has an ordinance. The anti-dog crap rule is meant to keep the rat population down, as well as the frustration level of your neighbors and their visitors. Perhaps, your visitors may step in it! As I walked my dog, one of your fellow residents at 7333 North expressed frustration with dog owners like me. The German Shepherd looks cute, but cut the crap.

Chicago Tribune on Rogers Park - 11/14/2008 - Where are those T-Shirts?

2008-11-29T13:21:00.003-06:00

For those who missed this Chicago Tribune Article in the Chicago Tribune on Rogers Park, here is the link.

http://www.chicagotribune.com/classified/realestate/communities/chi-rogers-park-profile_chomes_1nov14,0,7126248.story

So where are those Rogers Park t-shirts?

Joe Moore to 49th Ward: Super Lawyers Must Sue Criminals, Chicago's Finest and Costly Agencies are Helpless.

2008-11-26T09:24:00.018-06:00

Joseph Moore's Public Safety Meeting last Monday was more of a vent-fest. Moore's panel did not successfully facilitate enough comments on how law enforcement can creatively protect the public. At one point, Moore told a local attorneys to 'sue local criminals.' This 'Moore Mantra' should change. State legislators like Osterman and Steans should help to meaningfully re-evaluate and re-codify the dram laws.

Whether a conscientious effort emeges may depend upon the few offending liquor stores. Have they contributed enough to create a conflict of interest among legislators? Some bars and liquor stores merit less attention. Impotent political incest complete with 'Fagus and the 'Yes men'' does little to encourage the public's trust.

There is a place and a purpose for everything. Ineffective assistance of alderman or legislator counsel is unactionable. Your vote can make a difference. However, Moore is not completely responsible for ineffective or unwilling law enforcement; only for maintaining the status quo. Police officers should not mock residents when they try to help other neighbors. Officers should not 'glance and glide,' in their cruisers when dispatched to a trouble spots. It seems like mob action sometimes waits to return when 'the heat' moves south. Where is that subsequent timely drive by by our caring peace officers?

Assault, disturbing the peace, drinking in the public way, littering, statutory rape, and tagging are crimes. Chicago may have an easement over property. However, in doing so, it should reasonably enforce laws when private property is abused by litter bugs or the beligerent. Why can't these folks lose driving, licensing, transportation, or some meaningful privilege like the right to purchase alcohol until they shape up?

What about community service? When tolerated, in the absence creative policing, law enforcement sends the wrong message. Alderman Moore knows that the public cannot sue a 'judgment proof roving nuisance.' We know that if there is no enforceable penalty or public enlightenment, then criminal nuisance will continue.

Petty nuisances and major vandalism remain based upon a pitifully funded education and enforcement mandates from our Chicago and Illinois Legislators. This is sustained by the fear of a few more tax dollars. The top one percent continues to accumulate wealth. A few of the spoiled and outspoken prevent the wealthy from providing a fair share of their assets. In doing so, those like 'Joe the unlicensed plumber' ignorantly complain about taxes and do themselves a disservice. However, it takes more than money, it takes persistent attention.

Some locals just seem too addicted to keep the bottle in the brown bag until they get home. Those who have to drink and dribble on the walkway merit attention. Alcoholism is an addiction; addiction is an illness. Of course, there are a few who have forgotten to take their medicine, who the need attention of public mental health providers before they unreasonably assault others, as well. Yet, nothing is done to bring the resources to the neighborhoods before things get out of control.

This is why many are unimpressed with public safety meetings that simply march out the troops and the politicians. We don't need a 'dog and pony show.' The bottom line is Police need to find ways to do their jobs better. They are professionals, who should ask difficult questions. They should work with CAPs volunteers and politicians in more productive ways, not merely dictate statistics to them. The FOP needs to develop and encourage higher standards. The States Attorneys Office has resources and few Beats ever get much access.

Rational and responsible volunteers should be given a reasonable way to communicate more expedientely to those who care. Community Police reps from the 24th District need to effectively communicate with Caluris. Monday's meeting seemed like public promotion of the status quo. True, official crime is down, but the apathy that maintains our ignored and unreported crime still haunts us.

Drink Responsibly, but Don't Drive; Use Howard Terminal

2008-11-12T07:31:00.004-06:00

The past challenges of a lifetime are trivial after subtle and sudden distractions while driving under the influence. Not all of the victims of drunk drivers die. Turning tipsy and skipping stop signs are reckless acts that can be avoided. Accessible public transportation is one reason why living in Chicago often makes it easy to avoid being a driver or passenger in car accidents. Public transportation abounds particularly to Rogers Park. Why not go public?

I don't care how many excuses are given; accessible public transportation makes it easy to leave the car keys at home when there is intent to imbibe. In Rogers Park, in spite of all of the sensationalism, I know the Terminal to be a rather safe place. The aberrations are the exception. I find that the new South Terminal is full of more than enough passengers to deter the ignorant felon or fool. Often, it takes two. Most of us have better things to do than to mouth or mutter, so we move on. If you are elderly, then the Howard Steet taxi cab stand at Paulina is just north and visible from the exit. The cab line is rarelywithout a cab driver ready, willing and able to drive you home even at 2 a.m.

If you just want to rush home after kicking back a few at your favorite nightclub or tavern, then leave the ride at home. The taxi or the walk may do you well. There is enough light. If you walk in pairs, you have four eyes and ears plus a witness. This seems sufficient. If you binged, which is not worth the effort, then taxi's make it easier to eventually do your discreet prayer to the porcelain gods. Frankly, a few drinks are usually enough and if you have three or four hours, space them out if you must, but don't drive DUI.

The Pace 290 ends service around midnight on most weekdays. Perhaps, it ends later on Fridays; the Pace website can be surfed for schedules. I find that CTA's Route 22, among others, will put you that much closer, where you live just east or west of Clark. The 22 will also take you to a nearby 24 hour burrito bin that will serve you coffee, where you don't want to travel west to Western and Howard for Dunkin Donuts or Bakers Square on Touhy. Of course, the Loop to Sheridan bus or the Route 22 will take you from downtown to the Terminal or even closer.

I post this after reading today's front page on the Chicago Tribune about the Jahn family. How many families and friends must we read about before enough of us understand? How much motivation or planning does it take avoid the hazy drive from point A to point B? Whether we are peace officers or the public, all of us should set the best example. All you have to do is begin a pattern. Park the car in the lot or at home, go to http://www.yourcta.com/ or the Pacer link, and check out the bus and train schedules. Standard Parking at the Terminal rarely charges more than $2 per exit and entry unless you push your luck beyond a few days.

You are more of a threat than you think you are! You can create your own hellhole for Craig to ponder over after the police radio requests back up. You don't need a cab, just a conscience.

Well, that Woke Me Up: Fire on Ridge, Somewhere

2008-11-09T08:03:00.006-06:00

We run a seven day work shift in our household. My wife, who is in extreme demand, works the weekends. I work Monday through Friday. My kids try to figure out whether their parents will really make sure that they actually do their homework. Our dog tries to figure out if she will be walked at the brink of dawn; on Sunday. My wife strategizes how she will get me out of bed and momentarily fails. However, an opportunity emerges this Sunday at 6:30pm on the drive to work.

The phone spews out it's pleasant computer music tone that we have grown tired of. I look at the half functional caller id, courtesy of the cable phone service. It is my wife's cell phone. I pick it up. The voice; "You might want to walk the dog now." Next comes the half awake yawning "Why?"

Wife: "Well, there are four ambulances, two ABC7 News Trucks, and a lot of police cars."

Husband: "Thanks." [in an uncertain tone unsure whether to appreciate and levitate or return to slumber][Phone's push button is pressed and phone placed in charger with right hand].

My half conscious slumber is suppressed. The body has levitated and feet have hit the ground. What has happened? This concerned or nosy (depending upon your perspective) Rogers Park Neighbors want to know.

Within two minutes, the dog is leashed and I hit the pavement heading north on the east side walk on Ridge. As I walk, I realize that this event must be closer to Howard. Where? I have no clue. As I reach the subtle turn at Jarvis and Ridge I can see the large tower of an ABC News Truck. It is parked at St. Scholastica. A little further and it becomes obvious that there are two ABC Media Trucks. However, I see no ambulances.

At Birchwood, I notice that one of the cameramen is putting his equipment away. I walk with the dog across Ridge and reach St. Scholastica's driveway.

Me: So what happened? [or words to that effect]

Cameraman: There was a fire in an apartment building. A few people were hurt, no one was seriously injured.

Me: Thanks.

At this point, the dog gets the urge, and with baggies in hand, the indiscretion is promptly cleaned off St. Scholastica's grass. The conversation continues.

Me: You know, someone should do a public interest story about owners who don't pick up after their dogs. If you have to walk your dog, you are more likely to step in it than someone who is not an owner. I read that we have a . . . who alledgedly . . .Yada, yada, yada.

The cameraman acknowledged. Discussed his own dog experiences and again, wished me a good morning or words to that effect.

I continued to walk down Ridge, disposed of the baggy at Shell, purchased a cup of hot chocolate and continued back on the east side of Ridge. On the way, I stopped to say hi to a familiar dog owner with his chocolate lab, then stopped to talk to a second cameraman perched at Birchwood and Ridge.

Me: You know, I can smell the fire, but I can't see it. Where is it.

Cameraman2: Its over there. [pointing down Birchwood east of Ridge]

Me: Thank you.

Of course, I head down Ridge with eyes wide open. I see nothing. I also saw nothing down Ridge. However, you could smell something. I don't had no idea where the fire was, but at least the dog got her walk. Footage courtesy of ABC7 News.

The World is Watching - Near Head on Collision by Cop Car

2008-10-26T22:25:00.005-06:00

Police indiscretion is visible and under reported. This is not disrespect; just disappointment. Most Chicagoans know that Chicago Police Officers demonstrate public disrespect for the traffic laws. When a safe option to ticket is there, police are known to overlook it, as well. Officers lose the credibility war, when they violate traffic laws, among other indiscretions. I was not the only one who witnessed the near 'head on collision' at Ridge and Chase this evening at 8:58 p.m. The officer would have been at fault, but is that how it would be reported?

I watched as a squad car parked in front of the alley sidesaddle to the sidewalk under construction on the north side of Chase. An officer stepped out of his squad car. He left the motor running. Someone was walking their small dog. Apparently, the officer was convinced that the dog walker wasn't going to commit grand theft auto this evening in a squad car. I'll leave some facts out. The officer walked north down the alley to a gated porch stairwell. He was greeted about thirty seconds later and let in.

Another forty five seconds passed before he trotted down the stairs and off to his squad car. Rather than properly head east down Chase, a one way street; or down the alley heading south to Rogers, the officer did a U turn against traffic and drove west bound on up one way Chase. At 8:58 p.m. this exemplary specimen of Chicago's Brainiest suddenly stopped within five feet of a 'head on collision' with a yellow colored taxi cab turning right onRidge and Chase. Your tax dollars at work.

If the 24th District officer is reading this, there were at least three witnesses. All of us were disappointed. A decision was made not to release the squad car number or the peace officer's description. However, we want you to know that we are watching. If we see you get into an accident, then OPS should know who caused it. Also, the lazy recklessness that goes into such a thoughtless act!

Be a good neighbor. State Farm is not always there. Follow the traffic laws like the rest of us! How can we encourage Police compliance without citations? Just a public warning?

I have seen Fire Truck travel at 50 mph or more up Rogers, among other indiscretions. We hear about Fire truck/car collisions too often these days. Those who serve to protect should not have to swerve, project, and perhaps, even eject!

I encourage those in Rogers Park who have the time, squad car number, and location to report CPD traffic violations as comments, among other concerns. Perhaps, online public embarrassment may make a difference. Perhaps Caluris might read this. Then, again, we didn't bother to identify the officer, so maybe he will ignore it.

Bezo, Oprah, and Kindle; A-Okay?

2008-10-25T15:13:00.005-06:00

The temptation of bolstering another Bill Gates in Bezo bothers me. Do we really need to set ourselves back over $300 to help what seems to be an F-O-O- (Friend of Oprah) with a product that had bombed based upon bucks? The show attempts to simultaneously encourage and discourage debt with temptation after temptation. I thought that Oprah's mantra was against debt? This product has a price tag made for Malibu, but not for Main Street.

We all want to see the economy improve. However, many of us in the urbs, that is, not living in the suburbs find this message of economic seduction, a disappointment. This Gadget episode is too opulent for our bank accounts; affordable cheap gadgets, not Visa and Mastercard gadgets is what should be promoted. The Kindle can wait unless we are in Oprah's Audience.

Many of us don't face foreclosure because we forgo the tempting tangibles. We are fond of travel, but must avoid getting United much of the time. Of course, choices must be made, and splurges occur. We feel that the opulent array of items generating on talk shows and shopping network screens disappoint us! Where are the personal interest stories? Why are we stocked with escape? Where are the stories where those with disabilities overcome? Where is the philanthropy? This sort of discount is really a temptation for those who make $250 to $500Gs per year. Most of us don't earn a hundred, yet our politicians do. The system is out of sync, when you have to have money to get political privilege. Is it the Jesse Jackson Juniors' that 'make the break' and garner the grail in Government?

I am a professional who works with foreigners who are disenfranchised too often by the minority of Americans too lazy to work in a job that reasonably pays. The laziness comes from the average Joe the Plumber who hires foreigners to do their bidding without penalty. The DHS lacks the funds from Congress and ignores that Joe. If wages are not paid, the unpaid worker fears complaining against one Joe or another who may threaten to deport his workers while seeking that almighty $250G gross per year. Those Joes are the ones who grasp at the Kindles. We are the ones who settle for used paperbacks. We work within the law; our license obligates us.

We are just as disappointed with those who may misrepresent their assets to bankers to secure questionable loans that bungle the banking machine. Those who can crank out keen algorithms and repackage financial disasters to questioning consortiums suck up even more. Yet, many of us don't have $50Gs, let alone $10Gs, due to challenged discretion and ethical choices. If the mortgage is paid, then the roof remains over our heads, and all is good. With that mantra which we have, we have other priorities. Perhaps, we may splurge. Everyone must occasionally take the anxiety and hurt off us due to the clients or customers that assume that we are financially better off. Does it affect savings and force us to forego the family trip to Trinidad, perhaps!

Well, we are free from most, but not all of the debt. We may be self-employed, but there is security. We know that the next president, Demo or Repo, will not bring us much salvation, just jargon. We are genuinely happy that the next president should be from an ethnic or racial group that has lacked political power in America. Nevertheless, we know that THE ECONOMY IS US, not Obama. Whether we lay brick or defend the legally challenged, we are the economy. As the economy goes through its throws, some of us are strangely doing better, but not best. We knew are limits and never overextended ourselves to the extremes.

That is, some of us held off on the kitchen remodeling and settled for a redone bathroom. We watched Oprah, but avoided overhanging debt. We tried to stay away from the Tru's and settled for more spaghetti. We did what we had to do and have nothing but disgust for those who extended themselves well beyond their means. Now, some merely ask for us to subsidize their craving for kindles, HDTVs, and mortgages that they were never able to pay for.

The uniting thread to all of this blabber is that some of us look at Bezo's Kindle, the banks, and the borrowers. We feel a sense of security for our own decisions and restraint. We harbor no worries, but the desire for reason and personal responsibility in our economy. We want Milton Freedman to rise from the dead and tell our Government to leave things alone. We want justice and will pay tax when we must, even if we must be penalized for forgoing priorities.

If the Government needs money, then Congress should not be shy to ask for more taxes. We want the Government take on its responsibilities or absolve itself of some power. We recall the presidential phrase, "Ask not what your country can do for you, but what you can do for your country." We are not fearful of the future, since the FDIC need only cover the less than $10,000 in our accounts, if anything. We appreciate restraint, but know that the deadly sins can doom those in any century with greed not gratitude. Some of us are just happy to be alive!

My Kindle order can wait; I would rather pay for the kindling wood to light our fireplace and experience the joys of the moment this season. Some of us hope for justice and find little solace in a $700 Billion dollar socialistic handout to the F-O-Gs' [Friends of George] on Wall Street. We loath the AIG Bailout for executives; there are those who used extremely poor business judgment and dropped a lifetime of earnings for most in a one weekend romp in California luxury.

The drop in the market gives us no delight, but we have no stock. Some of us recall when 2000 on Dow Jones average was a record two decades ago. The market fluttered in the hundreds for decades on Dow before it eclipsed into the thousands. We dabbled in stocks, dreamed, but dumped years ago. We were shocked when the Glass Stiegel Act was repealed by Bill Clinton; the justification for that move is malignant and menacing. We knew that new stocks may carry questionable 'come ons' from interconnected entities with conflicts of interest. We felt that those who were in the know were already on board including Martha.

Again, new gadgets are nice, including Kindle, but a disappointment when they come with such a high price tag even after a fifty dollar price drops. Our real income remains stagnant, but our reality remains realistic. I hope that you focus on why there are mortgage challenges; it takes two to tango, that is, negligent bankers and questionable consumers. I hope that you deter foreigners from being the scapegoats of our nation, since we should prize those who want to live the puritan ethic and work. Perhaps, we need to look at realistic issues that are overlooked, rather than the temptations, but than again, you can argue that we can dream, can't we. And I suppose that Bezo has, as well. We await the Kindle to come down to an affordable alternative. Oprah, fifty dollars just won't do it!

Rogers Park, When No One is Watching

2008-10-20T21:27:00.003-06:00

I was given a privilege to participate as a soccer dad in Rogers Park AYSO. For those without the experience, who pretend that Rogers Park lacks good neighbors, you may want to rethink that assumption. As I read this Obama piece with amusement, I thought of all the 'sung' but subtle AYSO volunteers in our community who use the resources and volunteer to improve our community. A few are known entities; I don't know that Joe Moore had children in AYSO; perhaps so, but Nathan was not on my watch.

It is certainly amusing for Obama to descend upon a Lake Front Soccer field, but there are many public figures who go on doing their jobs and still find time to serve their community. Yes, the baseball cap does bring Obama down to earth, since he is a contemporary, many of us contemporaries who do justice to our community also find time to work as volunteers.

For those in that position with kids, don't just attend the games, ensure that the games continue to happen for all who have yet to participate. Rogers Park AYSO needs referees, among others. AYSO Rogers Park is as significant as you want it to be. Being a soccer mom does not have to be cliche. Watching a child interact with other kids to reach any goal is quite an experience, even when they don't score. Take time out to participate in life. Don't be a statistic.

Reply to Dennis Rodkin; In a Nutshell, Appreciated.

2008-10-19T21:02:00.009-06:00

For those who follow this rather slow blog, Dennis Rodkin just replied. His thoughtful post is the last comment in the previous piece. Mr. Rodkin, I appreciate the response and don't mean to sound formal. Sometimes, I feel a rasp in the writing, but revisions remain focused on the speculation and skepticism. I am no stranger to the provocative, which draws attention. I read Ted Allen's article on Chaz, but did not recall the author. It was well written, but I found the Chaz billboards beyond tacky. Whatever happened to the Chaz?

Alleged Visit

Apparently, my recollection of who I actually met and where must have failed to pierce through the haze of my aging and slightly disoriented memory. Perhaps, not you? The reason for the conceivable visit may have been my past involvement with the Illinois Orchid Society's Annual Show at the Botanic Garden. I am curious if this rings a bell. If not, then I must be mistaken and stand corrected.

That Annual Spring IOS show is huge and quite a spectacle. The Fall Show is small by comparison. Nevertheless, the IOS seems regularly overlooked by Chicago Magazine. This, even though the Society, among others have existed in the area since the early fifties. I think that the Show made the Robb Report. Maybe Chicago Magazine eventually included a piece on it. I recall leaving a PSA and some purple and white promotional materials with some Chicago Magazine writer. Who I actually visited and where must have eluded me.

That Orchid Organization returned to Botanic Gardens from a brief stint at Oakton Community College. Did a zealous IOS PR Person have any contact with you in the distant? I may have stopped off in Rogers Park. Like you said, it may have been someone else from the publication who ignored the effort.

The Love/Hate Relationship with Chicago Magazine from a Native Chicagoan's Vantage Point.

I am now on my 10th to 20th year on and off with the Chicago Magazine subscription. I think that everyone 'without deal estate size funds' has a love/hate relationship with the opulent ouzo of Chicago Mags articles. The Dreihaus Fourth of July Parties and Blue Blood articles fascinate some of us, but eventually begin to reek of anise when in overdrive. Maybe we fall in the arguable, but private 'nouveau pobre' ambiance. The phrase "nouveau pobre" was coined by someone other than me. Perhaps, it does not apply.

I haven't thrived on publicity, nor did family. I recall the Zahn kidnapping and his eventual escape. I wonder how many remember that story? Was there ever any follow up, because that story seemed like it was lost to history? Zahn was quite a publicity hound from what I was told until after the kidnapping and his escape.

This is about the fourth or fifth generation in Chicago with some in the family tree remaining on either coast and a few who left for other continents. I expect to remain and look forward to RP improvements.

Now RP Development in Spite of the Dogs of Gore

On Rogers Park developments, where can anyone begin. The Howard Terminal and the new apartments on Howard seem like quite a change. The RP Parent Club that you can locate at http://www.rogerspark.com/ may reveal a transformation of sorts. A few of us are staying put and taking the CPS System seriously.

The old condo developments like Casa Bonita on Ridge Blvd near St. Scholastica and the Castle Condos by Indian Boundary Park have yet to be revealed in their full splendor. The HGTV show on the Oakley Property just north of Touhy ignored some of the new condos emerging down Touhy.

However, I am always fascinated by the Prairie Style Arts and Craft Stucco single family homes on and off Ridge. I regret the loss of the home on the Corner of Ridge and Rogers kitty corner from the Lamp Post. Nevertheless, the auction for the condo by Ridge and Chase should get some attention.

One thing that you might have meant to bring attention to is that Ted Allen once lived in Rogers Park, as well. Of course, I understood that he moved out, when Queer Eye went platinum for New Yorkers. I regret no Queer Eye visits to RP. I enjoy his current show, but we can always hope that he encourages attention for Rogers Park, as well.

I am glad to hear that you make efforts to keep your independence. Many readers might fear otherwise. It is obvious that the value of real estate dictates demand, even if a good location is in the eyes of the beholder. I thrive on the diversity of a non-Wonderbread world. Some don't. I harbor no grudges, just curiousity. Thanks for the insight.

The Next RP Piece is One that Some Should have Done Years Ago! Perhaps, it was, but forgotten. Check back on Thursday.

Will Chicago Magazine Dictates Deal Estate Value? Who is Chaz, Anyway?

2008-09-21T20:38:00.013-06:00

I have always wondered what makes Dennis Rodkin tick? Ever since I first met him on his Ravenswood stoop back in the early nineties (eighties?), I've wondered! I mean, what a cushy job! Is he wined and dined by the other neighborhood realtors? Woo'd and Coo'ed by socialites in need of a little satisfaction on the deal estate exchange? Spoiled and oiled by mortgage brokers looking to suck in another $20Gs on the next 'cook the books' closing? Whose to blame for the mortgage mess?

Meanwhile, he gets to dice, slice, and dictate to us. The statistics are with questionable rationale. Pure numbers without any ability to determine what is going on in one neighborhood or another. What do the statistics on home buying really mean? I admit that reporters must remain objective. Perhaps, some of this speculation should be turned upside down. Now, I get to do it to some extent. Where to buy now? Buy where you want to dwell. Don't get fooled, again.

The Rogers Park statistics really mean less than they seem. In all, a measly 17 homes were sold from 7/1/07 to 6/30/08. What does that tell us? Rodkin surmises that it means that the value of our homes plummetted by -13.45%. I disagree. Few want to sell their home unless they are in foreclosure, perhaps. Most of us know that there is not much stock in single family homes in Rogers Park. That is a legitimate factor.

Presuming so, who wants to sell their home below market, when the neighbors know RP life is worth more? The average sale price of those 17 homes is $419,818. Were these distressed property sales? Perhaps, the housing stock stinks? Who wants to buy a home unless it fits expectations? Some may want to buy to fix it up. Others, to live closer to their jobs, the sights, the Lakefront, Loyola, NU, and public transportation.

The natives know that the new Howard Street Terminal is like a lit Menorah at Night. It is a major modern transportation hub. The Terminal is within walking distance of Ridge Boulevard for the more religious on Friday. This, combined with the Evanston Condos to the north will bring further revival to Howard Street. At night, there is always a taxi waiting to bring me home when I'm lazy and arrive after midnight. It is not a matter of if, just a matter of when!

Rogers Park homes have gone up at least 159.81% since 1994. We are not selling any time soon unless distressed. The average Rogers Park Condo sells for $221,452. One example; we visited the Casa Bonita's Spanish Revival Pool with the sliding glass doors, among other significant amenities. There is style and value. The photo is from a property on Hoyne north of Jarvis.

The attractiveness and size of the average RP Condo is a significant improvement over what many see elsewhere. The buildings are much more vintage. More buildings were gutted, renovated and subdivided. We have also seen teardowns and build ups on Touhy, but in so doing the replacements have really brightened up our neighborhood.

Chicago has many neighborhoods. This means that some neighborhoods will remain unknown gems ripe with value. There will be those who think that they can improve the quality of life with pessimism. They may discourage others. They will put fear into the ignorant and rookies. They will make Lakeview and West Ridge Boosters gleem with pride. I am not one of them. It is okay to bring reality to light. However, using a sledgehammer encourages outsiders to poke fun at the natives. I can live with a little humility.

Being the one who walks home late and varies the routine, I find that the walk is worth the exercise. How do you integrate with your neighborhood? Yes, there is security in numbers, but some of us feel secure and others don't. I am sure that they are reasonable. I can read fear a mile away. I think that if you fear fear, then you bring on stupidity. I realize that some areas are in need of better lighting, but some have it. Some of us should pick up the litter and push landlords to retain reliable maintenance contractors.

I realize that there will be apartments. We will have to questionable the ignorance of management from the Long Kogen folks, among others. There is a telephone number at 7239 N. Ridge. Iif you don't like the shrubbery or what is left of the grass (more glass), then contact Sandy and let her know. Her telephone number is strapped to the bricks just aching for attention.

The Challenge of Density v. Ignorance

Rogers Park has density, and with it, the challenges of city living. We are not looking to change the price as much as the quality of life. We need to work with those who have access to the brains of others when they are young. Why more neglect to volunteer or work just a little with the local school councils at Armstrong, Gale, Jordan, etc. confuses me. Perhaps, the kids can start influencing their parents.

Imagine if a kid rebelling against his mother by telling her to 'stash the trash,' only to get hit with a shoe? Imagine what you can do to influence those who need it the most. When kids have kids, then they 'may' develop generations of ignorance. That means that intelligence is often held by great grandma, not the other two generations that proceed her.

I hope that some of us wake up instead of living life through CSI. I am on maggot overload. Perhaps, some of us might learn something from those whom we least expect to learn. Maybe taking a walk is healthier and safer than couching your potatoes? Maybe getting noticed may get your neighborhood noticed? Perhaps a few more merchants and writers will smell the Starbucks and wake up. However, than again, maybe our neighborhood is better off a Duncan Donut Kingdom?

Litterpigs, Isn't There a Law? What about Enforcement?

2008-09-15T09:12:00.009-06:00

What is the City Ordinance that requires dog owners to clean up after their dog? What is the City Ordinance or State Statute that penalizes pedestrians and derides drivers who throw trash on the ground?

Are homeowners and building management supposed to show some pride and clean up after their property is trashed? It is ashame that Chicago does not deputize or encourage Streets and Sanitation. Someone should cite those with perpetual litter on their property or fine pedestrians who are careless and could care less! Imagine if the litterpigs themselves had to do community service cleaning up Ridge Boulevard! Justice delayed is justice denied?

I recently saw what seemed to me like an obese drunk African American drinking a can of Sprite Zero. This is by no means limited to African American. I admit to seeing a drunk white patron and his less inebriated friend zigging out of the Lamp Post. The blond tried to get the neighborhoods attention last spring. Nevertheless, the Icehouse and Old English bottles 'tend' to be carried and dropped by those with darker complexions. However, I know that most of us of any complexion keep our empties inside. The challenge for us is how to live with the consequences of those who don't.

I was with the mutt, stuck walking until the doo hit the grass. That can take a while. I used the "H" word as in "Hi," G-d forbid. All that this guy could do is look up with tensed raging facial muscles, glazed glassy eyes and expend a subtle grunt. He may have been younger, but alcohol can age the dependent. As a momento, he intentionally placed his empty Sprite can on the small metal box attached to the traffic light. He was in a piss poor mood, perhaps, a piss plentiful mood.

Inside the white bag suspended from the fingers of his left hand looked like a standard issue vodka bottle. Perhaps, it was purchased from the grocer/liquor store south of Touhy and Ridge. The man's sacrifice to the traffic pole god now placed, he traveled north past Jarvis and Ridge. I was curious whether he would collapse en route, so I walked the dog north. I chose to lose track of him; perhaps as he headed for Birchwood or Evanston for that matter.

Unfortunately, Chicago police and paramedics seem to care less about those in need of alcohol or drug treatment. This does not overcome current neighborhood concerns, when Police look the other way to open expressions of drug and alcohol addiction. Maybe the arguable alcoholism and binge drinking exposed on ABC's 20/20 by Stoessel is the reason for what seems like reckless restraint.

Nevertheless, the above sign near the northeast corner of Chase and Ridge was removed in spite of the litter challenge. Perhaps, there are a few similar signs still posted on Chase west of Ridge. I was told by my significant other that it is inappropriate to post these signs. Yet, in an effort to encourage sign posters, I have come up with more amusing ideas for signage. I encourage those with the gall!

PROPOSED SIGNAGE

"Plant pride, not Kentucky Fried. Dogs that eat bones choke!"

"Display Respect: Stash the Trash."

"Dog doo on shoes makes for a poor first impression. Respect those who walk in your dog's tracks."

"Enjoy the view. Don't destroy it. Carry on!"

"She who throws garbage has no respect for those stuck displaying it."

"Neighbors appreciate restraint: The dumpster is just around the corner."

"We don't collect aluminum and glass, so stash your trash!"

Should I like Ike? Hopefully, the Garden Will

2008-09-14T18:12:00.004-06:00

Well, when it rained, it poured and so did the known and unknown pore in the ceiling. The pots, pains and plastic recycling bags came out. The roofer gave up and told us to hire a carpenter. In spite of last weeks carpentry bill from the previous downpour, we are back to the beginning.

We are on three voicemail messages to the carpenter, two completed calls, two disconnects from poor reception, no date to repair, and counting.

I think that Sting should have written a song entitled, "how to seal an imploding roof." It seems more evasive and inevitable, then defusing a nuclear bomb.

The White S90 Volvo reappears

2008-08-27T09:16:00.008-06:00

Well, the car and driver covered in one of my recent posts seems to have reappeared in the neighborhood on the morning of August 27th. He parked his white Volvo on the north side of Chase just east of Ridge next to the alley. From my vantage point above the trees, I watched as the doo rag dude, without doo rag, exited the car. The camera was at work.

He headed toward the apartment building at Jarvis and Ridge. He wore his signature white t-shirt, but sported swimming trunks this morning. This is the one who lingered two Saturdays ago. As if in a trance, I departed to confirm my hunch. Behold, I discovered a Winnetka city sticker on the lower corner of his windshield.

Of course, we don't know that he is really from Winnetka with the city sticker. We don't know whether lives in the building. All we know is that he is at least visiting the building that he loitered in front of at a minimum. This time, I have the license plate.

Could it be that we are graced by the presence of an African American New Trier Graduate or Student who may feel obligated to drink his Old English 800 Malt Liquor at night at the corner of Jarvis and Ridge? Maybe he went to school at Northshore Country Day? I wonder if Winnetka's Finest would tolerate open alcohol in their neighborhoods? Perhaps, that is why he emigrates to Chicago from time to time. Illinois license plate G57 3923; look it up!

That Post Saturday Evening Post

2008-08-25T22:45:00.004-06:00

The observations are in. The mob that decided to hang out in front of 7237-39 N. Ridge were looking for "white boy" on and off for about three hours It was unclear whether they were looking for 'a white boy' or someone named white boy. However, it seemed to be synonomous that evening. A hate crime? Perhaps!

Police were repeatedly called by many in the neighborhood. A group of neighbors claim that calls started coming in around 10:30pm. District 24 finally dispatched 5-6 police cars around 1a.m. Oh, one notable; a squad car stopped at the northeast corner of Ridge, Rogers and Touhy for about two seconds and drove off at about 10:15 p.m. It seemed to ignore the teens sharing the pint of brandy in front of 7237 N. Ridge acting as lookouts. Hmmm.

Residents report that the 25 to 30 visitors were on the property, in the alley or on its roof; allegedly an overstaying tenant is the cause celebre. Long Kogen Realty Strikes again with its impeccable management skills. L-K also gets the gardening award for the most decorated greenscape (I can't really call it a lawn, since there is no grass). The rye bread ornaments on the parkway sidewalk were a real treat last week!

So what is the deal with open alcohol. Should the law be repealed? What I noticed is that Police try to discourage 911 calls by what seems to me to be the intentional refusal to enforce the laws that need the most enforcement.

E-Town residents like to use Rogers Park for a stomping ground, when their Police Department is 'on to' them. Also, there are fewer abandoned and unsupervised apartments, among other distractions to frolic in, perhaps. I hope that Long Kogen has the brain power to change the locks on that apartment when the tenant finally departs. The written consensus on the Beat 2424 Board is that District 24 needs dedicated Beat cops walking the Beat, not just Beat cops doing mop up jobs and dispatching ambulances to St. Francis at 1:30 a.m.

DWB - Probable Cause to Frisk?

2008-08-25T21:43:00.007-06:00

I appreciate that speeding and blowing stoplights present 'probable cause to stop and issue a traffic citation.' Yes, 'vocal belligerence' to Chicago's Finest is often a piss poor move. Okay, showing disrespect to a peace officer challenges that authority with few compromises to save face. Police are trained to take control of a situation. Yet, showing unnecessary disrespect to a disappointed African American by spreading his arms on the hood of a cruiser is overkill and unneeded theatrics.

'Driving while black' is not probable cause to frisk. I don't care how low the pants go or how long the t-shirt hangs. It is demeaning to get Chicago' Finest feeling you up. African Americans are forced more often to take the position. Why? We hear about the idea of questioning authority, but everything has a place and purpose. Discretion and grace sometimes pass in the night. Common Sense and education are not always in sync, when each needs to surface.

We view situations, but need to be objective. Respect and restraint are reciprocal virtues. Encouraging those virtues to kids and to adults makes sense. That is what those CAPs meetings are for. Otherwise, those who take the position of peace officer can breach the peace with disrespect just as easily as the teenager intent on expressing his frustration. Whether it was a stale green or a fire red light is best discussed in front of a Judge. Random acts of kindness in the form of a delayed warning, or two, rather than citations; think about it.

Just some objective thoughts on an observation this evening.

Ridge Incident Last Night

2008-08-24T08:06:00.002-06:00

Other than the chatter on the Beat 2424, what really happened on Ridge Boulevard last night. We observed some groups of teens prowling and some idiots cussing, but I heard that Police did a mop up at about 1:30a.m. with an Ambulance. Does anyone have any information to share?

RP - Babies having Babies Abusing Babies, Who Abuse Babies; Role Models Welcome.

2008-08-23T23:08:00.011-06:00

The endless cycle seems to unfold decade after decade. The child who you see being yelled at, impaled with fingernails, or dragged by the t-shirt collar on the sidewalk too often grows up to have a child as a youngster. As I watched the TiVo-ed 20/20 from last Friday entitled "Babyland." I earlier observed two African American teens walking side by side sharing a pint served up by a local mom and pop grocer. This afternoon another African American teen drove his bicycle on the sidewalk while cooking up a joint. What is known is that teens are more likely to get pregnant, when they are depressed. Seems like common sense.

Will those two teens find feasible fur this evening on Ridge Boulevard? Will she be a tween or teen ingenue? Will she be assaulted or inviting? Will her pastor push her to post-partum? In what type of condition will the fetus be born? What life will the infant lead? For how long? How much will hospitals financially bear before they go bankrupt? We know that fewer abusive mothers part with their kids unless DCFS intervenes. For those of us who have witnessed a DCFS baby farm, we also know that some foster parents (not all) abuse the privilege and also abuse the kids. How will this evening 'eventually end?'

Tonight, the inebriated teen boys cavort in front of 7241 N. Ridge at 10:30p.m. They may look for hispanic pelo de gatito. Perhaps, they are looking for an excuse to release some adrenalin with more proof than the police care to smell in one night. Maybe, there is hope that the metal love seat gets full antes de huele mal. Then, the opportunity to walk, put an arm around her, and pull out a few of those lifestyle condoms that may be tucked inside a jean pocket. More often, kids seem not to appreciate two words: "child support."

The cycle must be broken! Someone should begins to take control at Gale or Sullivan High School, among other places. Kids should not have kids. This is a cycle that breeds poverty, not privilege. For every second generation kid of a kid who makes it, there must be at least 500 who really don't. Where do those kids go?

Are the babies abused due to ignorance, end up ill, and on a stainless steel shelf at St. Francis or Childrens Memorial? Do they eventually end up at Audi Home or CCJ? Do they end up bleeding on a sidewalk, selling crack in tiny ziplocs, flipping burgers, or packing crates? Will they end up with some overwhelming student loan from some questionably uncompetitive college whose degree is as valuable as the mentality that leaves it? Where do the United Negro College Fund Scholarships go? Where could the funds go?

The rhetoric simultaneously struggles with reality; there are unmet needs in Rogers Park. Yes, there are kids with desires. They need our attention. The children of children need long term mentors in public places to fill the void. Short term 'feel good solutions' melt in less than one year and a spring thaw. I appreciate that I experience the spring thaw, myself.

It is easy to criticize those who push childbirth, when there are no mentors presenting all solutions to challenged youth. For those suburbanites who push these kids to postpartum; the pius also parade around and ignore why there is poverty. It may seem lofty to push an orthodox pro-life/abstenance agenda, but there are consequences for poorly planned parenthood.

Many of the lofty encourage, but refuse to welcome enough teen families in Glencoe, among other North Shore communities. Such shunning perpetuates a system of will nots. That system puts its full weight on urban neighborhoods. Premature teen pregnancies can cost urban hospitals upwards of $500,000 or more. Many pregnant kids are African Americans or Hispanics. Perhaps, the suburbs can only deal with about three to five percent African American before each fear real estate depreciation and white flight. Segregating poverty is no solution.

I appreciate scattered site housing as long as it is scattered across metropolitan Chicago, not simply concentrated in urban Chicago and Evanston. Affordable housing concentrated in urban Chicago and other appropriate solutions weighs down on the children of children. This also perpetuates a dense population of ignorance in need of attention and role models.

The suburbs should look to programs like One Milwaukee for guidance. One Milwaukee should advocate for more scatter site housing in its Milwaukee suburbs. Volunteer support must welcome the ignorant and stigmatized. I can only wish that the teenagers drinking the pint had packs of Lifestyles in their jeans. Usually, they don't.

Nuts at Hoyne and Fargo?

2008-08-22T23:29:00.005-06:00

Does anyone know if the nuts that drop from this tree at the north east corner Hoyne and Fargo are edible? There are two of these trees. The green husks with prickles that drop look unique. I have yet to identify the tree.

How about the huge plant with the orange flowers that look like daisies?

How many really take the time to look around? Walking the dog can be an adventure!

Applauding the Pick Up Your Dog Poop Signs

2008-08-17T22:45:00.005-06:00

The signs may be viewed as crass, but for those who know, dog poop attracts hungry rats and creates stinking footgear. I appreciate the wisdom of the signs, even if it seems a given to most dog owners. The rat food claim comes directly from Streets and Sanitation Investigators. They were dispatched to our alley after repeated complaints. There are at least two neighbors who seem to noticeably forget their bags at home to put it, politely.

I heard from another dog owner about someone who actually wrote on sidewalk cement that people should keep dogs off their lawn. Our home gets periodically hit by distracted, insensitive, or negligent dog owners. Who wants to step in dog &h*t?

One homeowner posts a copy of the Chicago Dog poop Ordinance in the alley running west of the 7200 block of Damen. This plastic encased sign on the telephone pole is getting old. Yet, despite the valiant effort, we still experience the callous wrath. What brain trust finds the signs embarrassing and a challenge to their insensitivity? What is so challenging about using a Dominicks bag. The rolls of small Petsmart poop bags are cheap compared to rat abatement! Why entice a local rat pack to evantually raid your kitchen pantry?

There is a rational basis to issue citations to those who refuse to pick up their dog's poop. However, with no Beat cops on foot patrols, there's no enforcement of the poop-scoop ordinance. How can District 24 reasonably deal with routine open alcohol drinking, sidewalk gambling, littering, street mechanic, and dog poop scoflaws. Have you ever given your local Beat Officer a cup of coffee, lately? Have you ever seen one? Will Caluris send us a few good peace officers? Will ignorant neighbors be offended?

Fred, the Alley Guy, in a Coma at St. Francis

2008-08-17T12:01:00.006-06:00

For those who know him, he is a saint, sentinel and sinner all wrapped in one. A teller of tall tales, Fred, the Alley guy was known to pass out peppermint sticks to neighborhood kids in December. He occasionally rejected gifts from neighbors, as well.

Fred watched the garages when they accidentally remained open, while smoking his signature Swisher Sweets. His wife, Carol, walks the streets exercising and helps out with the neighbors animals, when they are unable, as well.

I heard that Fred suffered a fall last week. I also heard that Fred is currently in St. Francis Hospital in Evanston in a Coma. He had been battling with his diabetes, among other maladies that he liked to boast about. He is a teller of tall and straight tales as well as some ridiculous ones. Perhaps, somewhere in the muck was the truth.

Fred was like a member of the family for a while, but when he stopped coming out to the back, we stopped. When he unpredictably returned, I was too anxious to get into the house. Although I know that Fred cannot read this, I wished that he would wake up from his desire to expire. Although Fred could be the quintescential B.S. Artist, he always had something to say and he was worth a listen from time to time.

Snap out of it Fred and I promise to stop by the fence.

Abandoned Stroller, Day 4

2008-08-17T11:49:00.002-06:00

Attention, a neighbor has moved this abandoned or lost stroller to the parkway. If this is yours, move it! If not, do you recognize it? Will the Police deal with abandoned items before the junk dealer picks it up, among others?

Who leaves and forgets a stroller? I guess that embarrassment and pessimism sets in, but it still costs money. Well, we actually found a stroller in our parkway, but it had a luggage tag on it. We were able to call the owners. They returned for it. Any thoughts? Do Police ever take the time to collect and inventory abandoned or lost items? Why not?

We called 911 on a bike left on our sidewalk about five years ago. After two calls to Police and the District along with repeated promises to pick up the bike, we left it on our cement front porch, as instructed by CPD. After two weeks, we realized it was not going to be picked up, but the bike was just functional. What to do?

Well, the bike became a social science project, not another piece of crap in our garage. On day 17, the bike disappeared. Who took it? Anybodies guess? We should have installed a security camera.. That would have been interesting.

It was Old English! -- Transient Rant, Part II

2008-08-17T10:14:00.009-06:00

Last nights piece; this mornings trash. Yes, it was fiction based upon speculation. If only, I had taken down the license plate, then the subject's residence would be verified. What happens if some fool of a suburban kid attracts flies and gets shot on the parkway in front of your apartment building? Who needs the hassle!

Loitering with open alcohol is an issue. I realize, as a kid, you have to find a place to drink with the under 21 prohibition. However, screaming at crazy drivers in moving cars on a residential street takes things up a notch. What ever happened to the concept of "Beat Cops?" Why not drain the bottle in front of 'junior' like they do in the suburbs?

What is the real deal? Do Police really cruise or simply pick up the pieces and ship them to Saint Francis? Does periodically cruising and walking the neighborhood Beat create conflicts of interest, hostility, or foster respect?

If Steve Caluris suggests to the Tribune that negative loitering is a challenge, among other crimes that evolve from it (e.g. mob violence, open alcohol, drug sale/use), then what is his plan to address it? The most obvious violations are not innocuous (e.g. littering, loitering, and public alcohol/drug use). Each need to be discouraged with meaningfully productive enforcement or intervention.

The air show ends on Saturday and Sunday afternoons. A days pay for a days work or a days pay for an hour of work? When will 'some' members of the Local FOP anointed by 'hizz honor da Second' start appreciating the community? When will they do their tour of duty? They don't even have to smell Napalm or inhale subsaharan dust in the morning! Maybe they can learn about us at something other than a CAPs Meeting or a mop up expedition!

Does 911 really work?

Does this Sign Mean Anything to Chicago's Finest or is it Just an Antique?

2008-08-16T23:25:00.007-06:00

This rusty sign regurgitates Chicago's prohibition on open alcohol. It is perched high on Chase and Damen and has historic symbolism. It is rises on a street just north from where local bums used to congregate with impunity.

A once popular Chinese Banquet Hall was demolished. The space made way for the Dubin Development just west of Summit Grocery.

The Hall had built-in tile shelves for plants or other displays. My recollection was that the local drunks, who liked to hang out here, planted themselves in these shelves as a convenient place to sit.

The buzzed would guzzle their brownbagged Colt 45 or Old English 40s within the cubicles. I don't recall if Police found the need to ruffle the feathers of these pissing human pidgeons. However, I did not miss the stench from the west side of Damen before the first owner's son sold the Banquet Hall to developers.

Now, we are left with this perched sign, little enforcement, and wandering alcoholics. Summit Grocery persists from its ancestral predecessors as does the Pantry. Our local Otis, or Otises, still occasionally waltzes through. As they dip, empty cans of Ice, Malt Liquor quarts and pints of Schmirnoff appear on the lawns and sidewalks.

Yet, this is an ongoing issue that has persisted for decades. What if Police reasonably cited with better discretion? How about all of those minor things like disturbing the peace, verbal assault, open liquor, underage drinking, contributing to the delinquency of a minor, not picking up the dog poop, and littering?

Would Otis Campbell and company actually begin to care and not escalate their insensitivity to 'deaf con 5?'

He's Just a Dude. . . Doo Rag Rage?

2008-08-16T21:54:00.020-06:00

He’s just the dude with the black doo rag sitting on the hood of an immaculate, almost antique, well polished White Volvo S90 at Ridge and Jarvis. He arrives complete with designer white t-shirt and jeans. Maybe he is from Evanston or lives up north, glamorously, but just can't accept it.

Perhaps, he wants to be in the hood, so he drove Daddy's birthday present south to picturesque Rogers Park. Maybe he is hanging out with a cousin or some internet acquaintance. He cops a call perhaps to one of his Chicago girlfriends with a cell phone thin enough to sport the letter ‘i.”

The brown paper bag sits on the curb 'possibly' waiting for the next swig from that liter. He seems to be standing sentinel. Tonight’s assignment is just Rogers Park. The idea is to facilitate action and upset some locals, even if it kills him or them. Is it a game of chicken? Does his mother know where he is at 10:00 p.m.? Where are the Police?

This wholesome player of soul may have hung with the homies on a romp back northbound past the local convenient store. He may have bought Old English or Miller GD, from the Pakistani. The brown bag conceals all but the clear glass upper neck of the malt liquor bottle. The bag with bottle is strategically placed within within three and a half feet of his right toes on the narrow cement curb sidewalk.

The almost feng shui placement of the bottle in bag looks like it may avoid a citation. It appears poised to look like someone else's trash rather than open alcohol. Perhaps, it is not his, but the bag looks too convenient to think otherwise.

Earlier, the dude and his foot patrol; all 'less than magnificent seven' of them . . . may have moved some fingers up and down on the corner of Jarvis and Ridge. Apparently, the driver to which the fingers or vocals twitched was less than pleased with the communication. She let out linguistics, which were returned by useless chatter. She screeched her tires, then sped south and west towards Western Avenue. From my vantage point, these folks have a death wish; thanatos, anyone?

The others, well, they went upstairs at that point. Perhaps, they were freshening up. Maybe, they simply wanted to get away from the dude or in need of supplies to head out to some party. Are they are watching from above while what appears like a fool become a 'target' in spite of Alderman Joe Moore's opposition to Big Box.

Meanwhile, back in the hood, some folks in a fire red pick up truck circle the hood cussing out their open window. This seems like an effort to provoke action from others with profanity. Did their dear mother encourage such civility? Was the profanity deemed chic and edgy after a trip to an unsupervised playground? Where are they from, anyway? Evanston?

Now Cochise hangs out on the hood of his Volvo. He aches for action, IMHO. He looks to me like he is humming Carly Simon’s Anticipation while simultaneously sucking on a Heinz ketchup bottle for attention. He wants to ‘sit watch;’ perhaps others may end up sitting at his wake. Not ‘how’ Cochise . . . ‘why?!’ Is this copacetic or pathetic? Maybe, its just an adrenalin dream that tempts stupidity. Get a life, take the horse north Cochise, hang out on the links with Kemo Sabe; they subsidize those greens just for you! Cooley High is gone.

Politics and Hypocrisy: Inconsistent, International, and Subtle, So Get Used to It

2008-08-15T20:21:00.001-06:00

I am not sure whether this rant falls into the Murphy's Law or the arguable Facts of Life Blog. We, like this YouTube video, view hypocrisy in our families, friends, journalists, politicians, and ourselves. The trash compacter of life looks for the least consistent hypocrites. We crown the virtuous few, but nearly all eventually lose their way in the fog causing the abuse of power and privilege. Some are unable or unwilling to wait for the fog to evaporate, so mistakes are made. Too few will admit to error.

Lessons in life: (1) everyone will eventually become a hypocrite, but not as consistently as others; (2) those in power with privileges often hoard it and become gluttons, fearing other alternatives in life; (3) the haves and those who seek economic interdependence support the status quo and democratic options; (4) those who envy the power or productivity of others often criticize those in power until they too become powerful and are themselves, criticized; (5) exaggerations and irresponsible posturing within the body politique nauseate moderates.

The concern of these journalists is, why now? The answer: Congressional ‘posturing’ and ‘tolerance,’ pure and simple. Posturing and expending money for a ‘cause delayed’ turns off voters. The above CNN video is an example of Congress spending our money on political partisanship. This is a commercial for the Democratic Party that offends most except for an exceptionally devoted niche of political storm troopers.

Nevertheless, the ‘alleged’ CNN Clip fails to get the political parties correct! We can talk of the virtues of politics; yet, it is the reality of politics that counts. Politburo or Congress; man is an imperfect leader, but so is HAL! [Reference to movie “2001 – A Space Odyssey”]

On the “We” so fondly brought up in local Rogers Park Political Discourse?

We the people "try to form a ‘more perfect’ union." Perfection is a pipedream for those with personal agenda's or OCD. One may prevail more, but in politics, compromise and tolerance is what should carpe diem. Sometimes, people neglect to appreciate peace and reasonable opportunities for prosperity until it evaporates.

Partisanship is not an issue like slavery. Yet, people should demonstrate and struggle. Fewer seem to rally for causes that they are more content writing about. Congress is postures in an era of arm chair complacency, despair, and frustration; call it laziness. If someone wants to publicize their POV, then more tools are available than ever. However, most of us need to appreciate the most effective routes. We also must learn how to separate the wheat from the chaf and reality from the rasp.

Annual RP Butterfly Month

2008-08-11T00:09:00.006-06:00

From experience, we see the most butterflies around now. This is the season when Phlox, milkweed, butterfly bushes, and coneflowers seem irresistable. It is strange for me to see Yellow tails beyond tame, but the food supply in Beat 2424 will not repulse.

Monarchs are a common sight. Yellowtails are becoming more of the same. Now, morning cloak varieties seem much more majestic than last year. Perhaps, we were not around or forgot without photographs.

While walking the dog, Fargo and Damen had one yellowtail that just wanted to sit in the grass, but flew around when it felt disturbed. I wanted to bring it to the garden, but noticed ample food in nearby yards.

The above flowers, among others, will work. However, butterflies are creatures of habit and education, perhaps. This year, we saw more Yellowtails and Morning Cloaks, but Monarchs are now daily and often bi-hourly visitors in August.

Last years' photo makes this years experiences seem overwhelming. I can only hope for a group of four or five yellowtails to return en masse next year, perhaps sooner.

Bernie Mac 1957-2008

2008-08-10T22:49:00.003-06:00

For those of us reaching fifty who listened, watched and witnessed this Big Mac of a Chicagoan grow onto the silver screen, we will remain numb and in shock for a while.

Bernie Mac struck a chord and stuck with what he wanted to do. In his persistence, he proved that hard work as well as getting into the right place at the right time pays off. His success should serve as inspiration to every teacher who chooses to work at Chicago Vocational. Some of us can only hope for a wife like Rhonda to tolerate our efforts and challenges.

The trade offs of any career may unintentionally hurt. The hope is that when you are struggling, all will be forgiven, when life hits the mark. I share that mutual desire to find time in my fifties, perhaps sooner, before my time runs out. Balance is a vital brass ring to reach for. Everyone wants to get home, but the detours toward success in any career can drive us away.

It does not matter what you do, but how you do it. Bernie had his own candid style. He could not hold back. At times, he made statements that had to be made where too few were willing to make them. All of us want to reach that pinnacle in our careers and some of us take longer than others.

Of course, like anyone, B-M- had his moments, but those blips were totally overwhelmed. Those who paid attention, recognized his remorse and the efforts made to give his gay nephew the respect that he deserved. Sometimes, the only way to learn is to make a mistake, reckon with it, and ask for forgiveness. At times, some of us are too busy, ignorant, or overwhelmed to appreciate remorse.

Some might have found some of those comedic or personal moments crass and over the top. Nevertheless, Shecky Green, among others, were much more racy, IMHO. The Mac Man was sensitive and had a heart. His career turned the corner and humor persisted to those who paid attention.

Bernie was on a run and did not stop until pre-mature illness took his lungs from him and those of us who wanted to hear and see him one more time.

We are fortunate that Bernie's grace, skill and timing will remain digitally ingrained on America's memory. We can only hope that others with such discipline, grace and talent learn, persist, and grow, rather than ignore the challenge. We can ill afford to allow the talented that we know to become the litter of lost dreams.

Those who experience the wrath of sarcoidosis deserve attention. Perhaps, other incredible talents are in our midst who also need our support to keep them going for years to come. Apparently, some of us were unaware of Bernie's challenge.

Let's hope that his wife Rhonda, daughter Je'Niece and grandaughter Jasmine look forward to the future. They should cherish good memories and encourage more of the same among those who care. Chicago has much more talent to share with the world. Let's cheerish it and put it on a pedestal for public consumption.

7200 N. Damen Near Daily Drinking Fiesta

2008-08-10T13:13:00.001-06:00

Has anyone seen 7227 North crowded with underaged drinkers? It seems like the grand daddy neighbor at 7223 N. Damen kicked off the public binge. This may be old news, since I have seen less action in recent days.

The old man drinks from his paper bag. This seasoned senior citizen sets a bold example for neighboring teens. There seems to be a twenty-something resident who hosts a perpetual drinking party. He looks like a Hispanic guy around 5' 5" to 5' 10" from a distance. I was in the area on the morning of August 10, 2008 in front of 7227 N. Damen hanging out with a neighbor. For those who drive, walk, or ride the bus by, 7227 N. Damen often had a crowd on the east side of the street just south of N. Rogers.

The groups tend to get obnoxious with loud and abusive language which intimidates and offends some neighbors. At least three other neighbors observed the group on this recent borachero.

On the tenth, when the four revelers left, they carried their Modelo beer cans with them. Sometimes, they drop the empties. Today, they were drunk enough to urinate on their SUV's bumper in public or pretend to. I didn't bother to check, but the act looked convincing. Another teen looked out his second floor window with disgust within 10 feet of the Black Chevy Blazer with Illinois license plate 848 1188.

If Chicago will not enforce its litter laws or open alcohol ordinances and State Statutes in some meaningful way, even inconsistently, then we will continue to experience regular and routine violations in our neighborhood.

Non-enforcement encourages contempt for police, where police don’t first warn and then come back to see if these whether the drinkers think Police are actually serious. Most ignore the warnings. If they see that they can get away with open and obvious beer drinking and public pissing, then what's next? Will it turn to drug sales, where it has not, already. My belief is that one from the party at 7227 N. Damen networked and picked up a drug seller who periodically vends in front of Summit Grocery.

The challenge of reasonable enforcement is not that extreme. A little enforcement can encourage compliance; the drinking party will move indoors or into the backyard, where it belongs. To drink in front on a public sidewalk is an advertisement. It encourages party crashers or those who might be acquainted with a few, but have no business being at 7227 N. Damen.

Again, I am not against a good party, but the uninvited may get frustrated. Some recruit for gangs with open drinking. Why does CPD encourage delinquency, open alcohol uses, and public urination with its 'mop up and pick up the pieces 20 minutes later tactical unit?' Is it understaffing or the desire to avoid confrontation? Is it really the best practice to let the situation fizzle out?

National Night Out Attracts Neighbors/Group Home Spurs Crime?

2008-08-07T23:20:00.004-06:00

Beat 2424 and Brummel Park Community conduct walks to encourage concerned neighbors to pay attention and get to know each other. Walk numbers vary, but the Beat 2424 website can be reached at the Police links from http://www.cityofchicago.com/ for more information . Last Tuesday's Walk for National Night Out attracted about 30 Evanston and RP walkers. The group trapsed up and down Howard. Walkers passed out flyers and met local police. The Chicago Police provided a cruiser, while Evanston Police had at least four officers on foot. The walk culminated at Brummel Park, where tables were set up and a buffet dinner was served courtesy of a local restaurant. A few Evanstonians filmed participants.

No, Joe Moore was not in attendance. He doesn't need to be at every event that graces our shores. Those who are concerned about the 2424, amoung other Beats may want to lend their eyes and ears as well as their pens. Perhaps, the walks will introduce them to places that they may not know and neighbors that they did not understand. Sometimes, spontaneous walks with neighbors are worth the effort, as well.

A Delinquent Dumping Ground Spurs Delinquency Wave Among Group Residents?

Each of us has perceptions, others witness, and a few report what they hear on police scanners. Sometimes a few who cause a mess need Audi Home after parental and group home malfunction. What do you do when you see parental malfunction on RP sidewalks? Have you ever called DCFS? Do you do a double take to decide the right thing to do? Is Rogers Park, like Uptown, being used as a dumping ground for dilapidating delinquents? Perhaps, this needs to be re-evaluated. Perhaps, our Alderman should pay attention to these important concerns that foster crime, not children. Some agencies are ill-suited to handle some of societies challenges.

Group homes are better placed in isolation rather than dense neighborhoods. There is merit to the concept behind Military Academies, Secret Harbors and Boy Towns. Inadequate and fuzzy supervision in dense neighborhoods incubates delinquency. Chicago's Northside should not be an MSI chickhouse for gang recruitment. Less aggitated suburbs can provide options for some emotionally challenged youth. Inadequate supervision in group homes spawn criminals. Suburbs are better suited to apply pressure for appropriate supervision.

Those who write should map the locations of densely packed problem group homes and their related organizations. Placing homes in claimed gang territory is flirting with recklessness. Those with licenses to treat should be cited for inept supervision that leads to crime. Those without licenses should be subject to closure by State of Illinois authorities. Illinois Agencies can assert control! We cannot depend upon Chicago, alone, where Federal and Illinois laws are ready to be enforced upon persistent request. Simply reporting to a kvetching blog crowd does little to wake up the regulators.

Periodic follow up to report on inept regulation until the message is understood, sanctions issued, or major media awakened makes moral sense. Simply hitting the crimes of a few and moving on does little to identify suspects. Justice may be overlooked when sensationalism takes center stage. The accolades of a badge of blog fame does not, in itself, cure laissez faire neighbors.

There were about six locals who walked in Beat 2424 on National Night Out. Where were you, when neighbors were attacked?

Politics and Hypocrisy: Inconsistent, International, and Subtle, So Get Used to It

2008-07-30T10:32:00.004-06:00

I am unsure whether this rant falls into the Murphy's Law or Facts of Life Blog. A concerned neighbor highlighted the above YouTube video. In life, we experience hypocrisy in our families, friends, journalists, politicians, and ourselves. The trash compactor of politics searches for the most outspoken but least consistent hypocrites. I recall former Third Ward Alderman Dorothy Tillman as a bold example, but there are many others.

Society may crown the publicly virtuous and outspoken few. Nearly all of our laureates eventually lose their way in the fog causing the abuse of power and privilege. Most are unable or unwilling to wait for the fog to evaporate, so mistakes are made. Too few will admit to error. Some errors are not fatal to every politicians career; get used to it.

Lessons in life: (1) everyone will eventually become a hypocrite, but not as consistently as others; (2) those in power with privileges often hoard it and become gluttons, fearing other careers; (3) the haves and those who seek economic interdependence support the status quo and democratic options; (4) those who envy the power or productivity of others often criticize those in power until they too become powerful and are themselves, criticized; (5) exaggerations and irresponsible posturing within the body politique nauseate moderates.

The concern of these journalists is, why now? The answer: Congressional ‘posturing’ and ‘tolerance,’ pure and simple. Positioning for a ‘cause delayed’ turns off voters. The above CNN video is an example of Congress spending our money on political partisanship. This is a commercial for the Democratic Party that reasonably offends and serves an exceptionally devoted niche of partisan storm troopers and yes men. Republicans in need of credibility found an easily accessible soapbox at this hearing.

Nevertheless, the ‘alleged’ CNN Clip fails to get the political parties correct! We can talk of the virtues of politics; yet, it is the reality of politics that counts. Congress, Committee, or Politburo; man is an imperfect leader, but so is HAL! [Reference to movie “2001 – A Space Odyssey”]

On the “We” recently scribed in local Rogers Park Political Yahoo! Group Discourse?

We the people "try to form a ‘more perfect’ union." I believe 'perfection' is a pipedream for those with personal agenda's or OCD. One's opinion may prevail more, but in politics, compromise and tolerance is what should carpe diem [seize the day]. Sometimes, people neglect to appreciate peace and reasonable opportunities for prosperity until each evaporates.

Partisanship is not an issue like slavery. Yet, people should reasonably demonstrate and struggle for their cause. Fewer seem to rally for causes and seem more content writing, rather than interacting. Congress postures in an era of arm chair complacency, despair, and frustration; call it laziness. If someone wants to publicize their POV, then more tools are available than ever. However, most of us need to appreciate the most effective routes. We also must learn how to separate the wheat from the chaf and reality from the rasp.

Skunk stuck in Yoplait Container Surprises Neighbors at Chase and Ridge

2008-07-24T09:08:00.000-06:00

Yesterday, a skunk with a preference for Yoplait was discovered with head encased in a yogurt cup near Chase and Ridge. According to concerned neighbors, the furry black and white varmint with extremely noxious scent glands was seen running around in circles. It was also viewed doing other odd and contorted jigs for local residents. We are unsure whether the skunk that another neighbor is smoking had any effect on this Pepe Le Pew's propensity to get the munchies.

This dance was an effort to rid itself of the plastic yogurt cannister left by local litterbugs. Fortunately, with additional local attention, the skunk freaked out and managed to make the right move; it suddenly separated from his visual obstruction and head east. This is not the first sighting of a skunk with a taste for Yogurt; one was also spotted doing a similar dance in Hopkinton, MA on the morning of September 17, 2007. [note: use the "find" function in your browser to uncover news of the Hopkinton Skunk Dance].

I understand that a group of garbage loving skunks have now found a habitat near our Veola dumpsters in the alley just east of Ridge behind 7239, but roam the sidewalks, as well. Neighbors strongly suggest that pedestrians approach with caution. Also, discourage neighbors from dropping Popeye's chicken leftovers, McDonalds, other fast food waste, and yogurt cups anywhere other than in local trash cans. Otherwise, you may be bathing in tomato juice for a week, when you meet up with a skunk that does not want to get to know you.

In the last week, we have noticed about two incidents where skunks lifted their tails, so to speak. We are unsure if there are any locals who were the recepients of the exotic perfume, but have no doubt that it won't be difficult to determine.

Again, use caution. For those who are unaware, according to Streets and San, the rats not only appreciate and multiply from the fast food leftovers, but also feast on dog feces, as well. There is a reason for those little dog doo bags, so use them.

The Walk West from Terminal Park, Guidelines to Keep Bullets in Gun Shops, Recommendation to Chairman Moore about the Northshore Slumlords

2008-07-20T01:03:00.009-06:00

The pundits may call me crazy, but I'm not intimidated, whether I lived at Winchester and Rogers or Ridge and Rogers. I walk home sporadically down Rogers or Touhy from the Howard Street Terminal. I am by no means, alone. After midnight, the only way to get home, other than by using the parking lot is by foot. The 290 does not run. There are cabs on Howard that line up by Paulina, but you need cash. I don't see mobs, but don't doubt their infrequent existence. I don't know how neighborhoods will change without a constant law abiding presence.

What is the point of taking the CTA Train if you can't save a few dollars. Other than the area west of Damen just before the former Pulse Ambulance, the north sidewalk is well lit. I see no reason why others avoid the walk on the well lit south side of the street or even bike home from the Terminal. The new Walgreens and the remodeled RP Fruit Market give you an excuse to avoid the 'boob tube' for thirty to forty minutes.

There is often, not always, an baseball game that starts around 7pm on the diamond in the east corner of the Park. By the time that you reach Ridge Boulevard, the Lamp Post usually has a few smokers eager to 'light a grit' on the southwest corner. Neighbors just south of Potawattomi Rec Center hang out on their porch until about 11pm. I promise that they don't bite, but may chupa the 'cheles,' upon occasion. Near that corner is the shrine to the Virgin of Guadalupe, which was relocated from the fence and sidewalk. A few often sit inside the fence at the home out of respect as the velas burn.

My walk home may include a stop at the RP Fruit Market on Clark and Rogers if I get home by 9pm. If not, then I stop by Dominicks which is open until one. If I want to skip the trudge through the Dominick's Parking lot, then I take the 22 to Clark and Rogers.

After living in the area on and off for nearly fifty years, I have accepted integration, embraced it, and even moved from the north suburbs more than twenty years ago. A few inconsiderate or loud folks talking on their cell phone or each other are not going to intimidate me. Why should they intimidate anyone else. However, being a guy has its advantages. Nevertheless, I see no reason why a few people cannot take a stroll without a hassle. It can be quite serene; I guess some are too afraid of each other to appreciate the moment.

Life on the West End - Suggested Guidelines that Keep the Bullets in the Gun Shops

If you live here, you belong and your neighbors will likely respect you. If you visit, enjoy your stay; don't be intimidated and visit friends in peace. If you waltz around raising your hands, dressing with 'boxers hanging out of your jeans,' doo rag flapping, rapping jive/trash talk, and looking for attention, you probably don't belong. White folks wear doo rags, occasionally even my wife, so it is the complete image not one garment! Start waltzing for the heck of it, with or without the dog, you might learn something or get some exercise.

Perhaps, you are unintentionally disrespect others or never figured out how to co-exist. We can observe, but need not report. We can act as a constant unintimidated presence to witness and encourage those who disrespect our streets to move on. However, that said, simply being a good neighbor and cleaning up your apartment's or home's parkway is a reasonable request.

Those who do and I have seen them more often than not sport Evanston City Stickers on their windshield, loiter on the corner, park in a no parking area, and eventually make it to the local grocery store to pick up a few cans of malt liquor. Yes, the locals go for the singles, but more often than not, those who don't belong trash our block and drive away. Chicago's Finest seem to care little about open alcohol or just don't look for it.

Chances are if you see something, it may be a new neighbor or someone who crossed Howard to get attention or attract bullets. Yet, I don't live in or near the Jonquil Jungle, but even Jonquil and Sheridan has significantly improved from its abandoned gas station past. You cannot get stability without reasonable amounts of single family housing.

Chairman Moore, Will We Encourage Single Family Homes to Challenge High Density Abandoned Apartments?

Chairman Moore, condemn and tear down those apartment building walls! The Jarvis walls just east of Ridge are full of brick waiting for demolition. Some are caked with City Condemnations Stickers. Building violations deserve attention, fines, condemnation, and demolition, not funerals for desperate Hispanic tenants. I recall that the Law Division contains a Department specifically geared to slumlords, condemnation, and demolition. Demolition was done in Pilsen, so why not Rogers Park? Why do we wonder about contributions to the Moore Political War Chest? Consider the sources! Could it be, slumlords and liquor stores?

Why stoop, Chairman Joe? A true progressive rejects and returns those contributions to their source! What influence does Joe actually wield towards those contributors that Craig Gerhardt so fondly harps about? [sarcasm intended] However, alas, I digress and am too utterly distracted by what seems like 'the current party line.' I regret that I fear that many, 'but not all,' members of the local DFA are a bunch of Cheerleaders for the status quo, rather than activists for significant local issues. Certainly, it makes it easier for others to fill the vacuum of dissent that seems non-partisan and often reasonable.

Should residents 'OD' near the front stoop of your Ward Office and local sidewalks without meaningful intervention or a POA, Alderman? Is this stupor an indication that the uneducated in your Ward have alcohol and drug challenges in need of reasonable police and medical attention? Or is it simply not a priority because these folks vote when encouraged? Neighbors should not have to post photos of small Ziploc bags gathered from the parkway on CAPs Websites to get attention for the obvious!

Well, my walks are otherwise undisturbed except for those unconscious concerns, which are often stored in brain tissue until the persperation makes those thoughts do the lambada out of there! When will Joe appreciate that those folks who live in Deerfield are looking forward to the next Blajovevic to influence? Perhaps, he does. What happens when Joe, among others, is sucked in, chewed up, and spit out in an eleven count indictment?

Perhaps, Joe will get out of politics in time. Maybe he will find a job at a large law firm until it implodes from too much political weight. Others have found private practice. Politics is a hypocritical livelihood in that you can only remain popular for so long. The rights to hold office are made that much tougher by the challenge of an incumbent's dependency upon power and privilege. The spotlight gets brighter and the wine turns acetic.

The Intimidated, 'spaced out folks' Up North with the Long Commute through Our Streets.

Well, those Northshore folks are too afraid to live nearer to their jobs. Perhaps, they are too embarrassed! Maybe, they are too bigoted and ignorant to find good Chicago Public schools in which to send their kids. Some suburbanites seem to revel in driving down 25 mph Ridge Boulevard at about 45 mph. Most, including the Freedom Bus, remain unabated by our local officers.

I fear that these peace officers would rather ticket the parked cars of locals on the west side, then cite speeders, ticket stoplight slackers, stifle litterbugs, and show up 'in key' at traffic court. Actions and integration are not curses nor is the freedom of speech! We should learn to interact and present reasonable, yet subtle persuasion to those who simply don't get it or reasonably appreciate our needs.

However, everyone deserves respect even if they let their boxers hang out and little else. We should tolerate and observe the lazy and loitering just long enough to encourage them to continue their stroll outside of our eyesight. When it ceases to be a stroll, it begins to become a trespass in progress. The sidewalk is an easement, not a public space to stop and drink a soda or make a phone call unless you live there. Don't be convinced, otherwise. Yet, I find the sidewalks to usually remain free of distractions.

I regret that some partisans may be encouraging the resurgence of Republican State lawmakers in Illinois, regardless of Democratic control of Federal elections. The concern is whether partisan progressives wake up, clean out their nostrils, and smell the stench. Perhaps, some prefer to be cavalier and feign ignorance about the situation; I think that their boxers are showing, as well.

Heading to the Fox River, but Enough in RP

2008-07-12T23:38:00.004-06:00

We just hooked up with the Prairie State Canoists. The group has numerous trips over the year. Sunday's voyage is down the Fox River. One of the challenges is getting the cars to the pick up point. This is made much easier when you canoe in a group. PSC has been around for years. We will likely spend more time in the Wenonah with our 'outward hound.'

It will also give us the chance to explore other areas. It seems that a number of people in the area are members, but they don't blog much. The cost to join is $20, but they encourage guests to join them. However, you must phone or e-mail to confirm if there is room.

Has anyone heard of the Midwest Adventurer Travellers Club of Chicago? FWIW, Sunday is the Celebrate Clark Street Festival (1pm-11pm) and the Lincoln Park Boat Club's Chicago Sprints Regatta.

For all Our Belly Aching, We Don’t Live in Cedar Rapids’ Squalor

2008-06-23T13:03:00.006-06:00

With all the sympathy in the world for China and Iowa, among other losses, I accept that there are a few residents extremely eager to live in a ‘sanitized version’ of an urban Kenilworth.

I applaud these visionaries for their high hopes, but Chicago's Urban life in Rogers Park brings a few challenges with no natural disasters thus far. We live in a diverse world full of information and ignorance. We live in a community of bliss and brilliance, but unclear priorities. We want peace without disrespect or hatred. We dislike certain things; we have every right to express ourselves. Some work to improve their conditions more than others. Vigiliance is not a bad trait. Frankly, suburban existence thrives on its closed doors at times; significant thefts don't always make the blotter.

Whether we consider Alderman Joe Moore, some wannabe gangster, or a local blogger like myself, we all look for attention to our concerns and local pet peeves. A few are unable to locate that missing link for a reasonable and responsible outcome. Trying to seek that ‘holy grail’ is sometimes a futile crusade; it is a humorous exercise not limited to the cast of Monty Python's Flying Circus.

I just could not ignore page 3 of the Chicago Tribune from Sunday. We have our challenges in RP. However, they don’t come in the form of the rising river banks courtesy of Mother Nature. Those entities unknown to date but arguable called “freaks of nature” seem to only come from that lakefront phenomenon known as a ciche [okay, I don't have the time to figure out how to spell the Lake Michigan equivalent of an unexpected swell].

Instead, we have a few irresponsible residents. Some, we hope will wake up and sell Taiwan Li Shan or another legal substance on eBay instead of a controlled substance like Thai Stick in the Jonquil Jungle. BTW, Li Shan Oolong tea sells for an average of $190 a pound on the market. You can find reasonable quality Li Shan for $138 plus shipping from eBay. However, until demand reaches reasonable proportions, this tea will be overlooked by all except the most die hard tea aficionados. I guess that those who want to avoid reality, rather than face it, are willing to more easily part with their money.

Yet, so few spend the time to look at lawful options to make serious money. There is broker churning, insider trading or mortgage fraud, among other diversions. There are those who simply give up instead of putting in hard time, outside of incarceration or a questionable reputation, to learn or point out the attraction that brings respect in any trade.

A few of the optimists still dwell with a realistic and objective appreciation of our surroundings. There is the school of hard knocks and the school of fast knocks, when you seek or market goods. Fast knocks don’t always come from Chicago’s finest these days, so why waste the effort and your days on Earth.

FWIW, there are too few looking at how to wake up the minds of those with little. How do we ease the access and use of education, information, markets, social services and trades. This seems like the wisest means to raise the quality of living in Rogers Park and the residents who live here.

In the restaurant trade, it comes with attentive service and good human relations. If you are a bus boy or a waitress, you ‘kibitz’ and console while serving bisquits and tea, when the chef is inefficient, slow or having a tough day. You don’t sit in the corner and complain about the guests.

In the construction trade, if you don’t have the materials and tools, you work with what you have. You make room for those things that you will have to do in the future. I am sure that have shortened the long list on this one. Logistical challenges are overcome without giving yourself and others headaches during oversight in the project. Project managers depend upon others, as well. Contingencies are worth attention.

Finding reasonable labor in a closed shop city is possible, but takes a little more time and effort. However, there will be those who are too cheap, shrewd, or looking to keep the bottom line too low. This makes Chicago’s challenges that much more realistic. For those moments, we really depend in some trust, not necessarily the local inspectors who seem overwhelmed. A few are willing to use limited discretion and fear losing their jobs or stifling development. We can only hope the Alderman does not ignore tradesmen, while kissing up to them. How many contractors in Chicago 'reasonably rely' upon the local IBEW or the Plumbing Council? How many neighbors have bothered to inquire to find out how much it really costs for a journeymen, among others, to do the job? How many of us have ever tried to reasonably get a job with a union in the last year?

Life takes time and effort. If you get cash handed in your lap, then 'chances are' it is going to disappear with interest and anxiety without the hard work to retain it.

Why is there poverty? Where can G-d or anyone begin! There is no exact answer to everyone’s excuse or actual priorities. Ignorance of people’s actual priorities, the desire to make a fast buck without the communications skills/wisdom, and all sorts of other intangibles are sometimes the function of chance and planning. Some just want to sit around and drink a beer off of another’s earnings. C’est le Vie! However, there is some bias so let's face it. We can ill affort to incorporate bigotry in our day job or our lives. We are a nation of minorities, who need to find strength in our similarities and differences.

No one is going to end all of the ignorance in the world by eliminating those that refuse or unable to listen. Finding the right flavored carrot to get them to eat is not a task left to the social scientists. Only those who yearn for affluence enough that they can taste it will take that road. Few want to spend ten years away from the community for the seeking the wrong product to sell. However, ignorance is bliss, until your dead or dumbfounded, along with your family.

Frankly, some people don’t want all of that money and just don’t care. They just want enough, but the economy keeps moving in a direction. It forces us to re-evaluate where to go next. Sometimes 'just enough' never seems like enough. That is, until you wake up and look at where you are now compared to where you were five years ago. Sometimes, success look evasive based upon our state of mind.

Live from Rogers Park, Photo from Yesterday's Hail Storm

2008-06-23T12:38:00.006-06:00

I got these photos on a neighborhood driveway. Just in case Obama's looking:

Hail for the Chief.

Pun intended.

That was one long outpouring of Hail last night. Remember, you didn't read about it in the Trib, but other RP Bloggers have yet to show you this full color extravaganza or even comment on possible damage. I guess there was none other than the rat fatality. How lucky!

Flowers for Algernon

2008-06-23T11:59:00.004-06:00

Just an update. It seems like our weak link took a dive into eternity. Not a 'smooth move' heading out into the afternoon during a hail storm. Shame on you! Well, it was a disappointment, yet fulfillment to see this one leave us.

Rats have been domesticated. Now, pet stores carry rats in a variety of colors with the warning that their teeth either need to be filed/fixed or rats will naturally kill themselves, perhaps. Whether this is true or just a repressed memory is another story. When you see a helpless rat and have been to the pet store to see the caged wonders, you may get a warped sense of regret in these situations.

It seems like the outdoor variety do not think much of our electric rat trap or its peanut butter filling. Perhaps, the voltage is not strong enough to make a difference.

Well this one was a gimme for all of the hail damage to the lillies. Now, my wife will no longer let out a shriek over this little guy, again.

Dog Darts

2008-06-23T08:34:00.003-06:00

The bad news is that it has happened to me before. The good news is that it did not happen. I was mentally prepared to deal with an experience last witnessed in 1966. What do you do when the leash clasp opens and the dog darts? In Chicago, perhaps, you pray depending upon the dog.

Our dog is not the most brain rich puppy. She is a small loud mongrel with reckless abandon, whose baby teeth are falling out. She is in her golden year. She barks as if she could attack the largest dog or living thing on earth. If challenged or wants the territory, she may bite. She rarely does so, but I have no doubt what could happen in a pinch. However, she does have her rabies shots even if it wouldn’t look pretty; she is no pitbull.

I don’t want to discuss the chewing issue. Our cat hisses at this cute irresistable ball of curly hair, which licks with reckless abandon at times. This dog is a lick machine and in her drive soothes emotions.

The puppy’s living quarters will not be described in depth. What can be said is that in the two moments that the pooch’s collar has separated from her leash clasp, shrieks of the puppies name have been heard for blocks.

What do you do when what seems like an un-trainable terrier takes off? Think about what was done and don’t do it, again seems appropriate. We have already had an experience with the retractable leash. Before today, I was the last dog walker who watched the leash fail or the dog dart south. Our ‘nine pounder’ took off with the speed of an alien mistakenly freed by the DHS.

D took off with reckless abandon or perhaps to freak out the family with her cunning stupidity. She headed south toward what for us seems like a major traffic artery in Beat 2424. I feared a looney tunes scene setting in only this could be a final episode. I could hear her name being called. I felt mentally ready to hear screeches, screaming and possibly bent metal. Would man’s machines try to compete to simultaneously move and stop in both careless and careful efforts at automobile prowess?

Somewhere, during that period, I had time to put on my shorts, return, and view the nine pound menace in the control of a hopefully more sensitive dog owner. I handed my wife the cheap neon blue canvas/nylon leash with the look of I’ve been there, done that. It was accepted.

How About that Hail? Dog doo is rat food. Sympathy for Algernon.

2008-06-22T23:57:00.008-06:00

Well, am I the only local who decided to comment on the fifteen minutes that turned our airconditioners and car exteriors into out of tune xylophones and bucket drummers?

A few of our lilies were damaged. One other 'possible fatality' is the damn rat that Streets and Sanitation could not kill. They tell me that the dumpsters in back of 7239 W. Ridge are encouraging the night rats and rat holes. However, we have a weak rat that comes out during the day. The rat has become a bit of a simultaneous amusement and nuisance. He doesn't seem to go for the peanut butter in our electric rat trap. I think that he just shows up every once in a while to upset my wife.

This is the first time in ten years that we have seen a rat. With the additional dogs and dog poop, combined with the tendency for some not to clean up after themselves. Well, our local rats have found the "abundanza platter" rather tasty. The McDonalds and White Castle leftovers must be appealing appetizers, as well.

The reason for the dog poop bag ordinance is to deter rat infestation. For those who won't pick up, the rats will pick up and swallow it for you. Most girlfriends don't find a rising local rat population an amusing backyard attraction.

Yet, during one of our rats self appointed missions to hang out in our backyard this afternoon, he was inundated by the round icy things. For some reason, my wife wanted me to take a look at the gangway to see her newest change and who did I find? Our local perpetual afternoon rat visitor, Algernon Junior, on his back; dazed and confused. This was the first time I saw him, but my wife mentioned Algernon Junior about two weeks ago.

This rat was looking up at my eyes giving me the slow motion Stevie Wonder head sway. It was weird. I'll check in the morning to see if Algernon awoke and took off after his coma like stare. When you see a helpless rodent like that, you begin to feel a bit awkward. However, I didn't have the baseball bat with me for that unconscious swing of fate, so I left it, alone.

I don't recall this ever happening in the last ten years. Hail and amusing rat stories. I don't know if you will ever get this on the Broken Heart. If the rat is still around, I will pull out the Coolpix for a Nikon moment.

Sorry Sonny, No Money - Lotto Takes Hold - That is What Two Tickets Will Take!

2008-06-15T21:59:00.007-06:00

For all the false promises given, Illinois Instant Lottery takes from the poor and feeds the politicians or so it seems. The program started with the promise of funding education. Now, it seems to bask in the misfortune of the less educated. That is, those who forget the odds. Instant Lottery is a means for the Government to take from the poor.

It does not feed them, it fools them. It gives them an empty feeling of loss once the wax is removed and the numbers revealed.

Is it Neon 9s all the time? Or is it Sunny Money, lost my honey, here's a dollar keep me in squalor! Where do we go, what do we do? Is this a state of promise of state of take? What little is there seems to sprinkle its fragments onto the grass. The frustrated may dream of the money that they probably won't take from the State of Illinois Lottery, which is likely outsourced to some other concern. Of course, the other concern may be some allegedly minority run business, which is really not minority run, perhaps.

How do you "win up to 6 times," when you usually lose once! The Illinois Lottery is about as good as a licensed punch card scheme. The most that can be won is $999, but only if the winning tickets are sold. The Lottery takes from the people who can least afford to lose it. Yet, our Legislators have looked the other way!

In fact, Illinois LINK cards have made the sort of spending many of us consider discretionary, an unregulated public disgrace in my opinion. How many of us have witnessed a cashier or small grocer look at a sale and ignore the consequences for the sake of the almighty dollar? We wonder, when will the audit come? Does it ever come?

"Get two like amounts, win that amount." "Get a Sun symbol and win [a whopping] $25 dollars [off dear Uncle Rod!]" Well, the two tickets deposited on my neighbors lawn were losers and so was the litter pig who dropped them.

I see folks lean up against Summit Grocery's wall just scratching off the wax. It doesn't take long before the five to ten dollars in tickets reveal nothing other than wax shavings and unmatching numbers. Will the tickets make it into the garbage? What are those odds? It seems like the player sport poor habits is in need of gamblers anonymous, perhaps?

These two tickets disrespected a neighbor, created blight, and stole hope from someone who probably could least afford it. I think that I'd rather buy a ticket on the next PACE Bus heading west to a job interview or some CPS GED course at Truman College. Two dollars can buy two thirds of a Lean Cuisine Dinner on Sale at Dominicks. Two Instant Lotto tickets are rarely worth the two dollars. Is the suspense of losing it worth the time it takes to work for it? What is indignity for two dollars? That is what two Lotto tickets will take. That is one neighborhood Jeopardy!

Howard Street Terminal Opens New Entrance 6/9/08 - A Few Photos for those who Ignore it

2008-06-14T23:26:00.008-06:00

I ride the Red and Purple on a near daily basis. I also park in the lot. Other than a connecting door to the Standard lot, the Terminal entrance makes using the platform a much more efficient and serene experience.

I don't have any fond memories of the fiberglass awnings that graced the Howard Terminal in the nineties. The holes not only leaked water, but pigeon droppings, as well. The area has changed quite a bit. It is not the unfriendly confine that it once was. One situation taken out of context was the temporary closing of Duncan Donuts during construction. One person suggested in a video that Duncan was closed for good. A quick review at that time confirmed that this was incorrect. Of course, history has confirmed it. Nevertheless, Quizno's stayed open for the duration.

For those who are curious, the Chinese restaurant was supposed to go through a remodelling, but my discussions with the former owners suggested that he was not fond of union labor. This was an unwise preference in a 'closed shop' Chicago. I will never know whether his plans for a non-union remodeling or a decision to simply move were the basis of China Lite's departure.

My current Howard Terminal concerns; still (1) no concessions for bathrooms and (2) an insecure bike area without racks or real supervision to date. When push comes to shove, I hope to see ongoing improvements. The north end of the terminal is the next part of the rehab project from what I recall from the plans.

That section is supposed to look more like the historic Howard Terminal.

Heartland Human Care Services - Gassman's Tenant

2008-06-09T22:31:00.002-06:00

The Gassman wants to know what you think about his new Tenant, which is some sort of rehab center likely geared to pay his $3.5 million mortgage/refi on 1149 W. Lunt. Upset? Offended? Disenchanted? Let the guy know, even if it is an excuse to vent. Consider legal options to abate this alleged nuisance. Gassman has invited anyone with a beef to this address for his meeting.

Maybe someone should invite the police in case they have concerns.

JUNE 12 - THURSDAY @ 6:00 PMDLG MANAGEMENT BUILDINGS' LAUNDRY ROOM LOCATED JUST EAST OF ENNUI - A COUPLE DOORS DOWN WE NEED MEMBERS OF THIS COMMUNITY TO SPEAK UP!!!

Stoner's Set up House at Gassman's Lakeside Resort - 6979 N. Sheridan - The Gassman Beatle's Parody

2008-06-07T00:48:00.010-06:00

It seems like its time to take Craig's List at the Hellhole to task, observe 6981, and make a massive call- in to 311 after a careful once over.

Perhaps, the Mayor's Office, as well, since Daley tends to have little affection for Joe these days. The issue is whether Gassman allowed an unregistered business that allegedly monitors former addicts to take over part of a private apartment building without complying with City, Federal, and/or Illinois law. However, if this does not work, then an lawsuit in chancery to abate the nuisance can be filed against the Land Trust created by 6981 N. Sheridan, Inc. which is held in Trust by First Midwest Bank. David Gassman is the President of 6981 N. Sheridan, Inc., which controls the interest.

Nuisance lawsuits work, where there is a Plaintiff, who can show "actual damage" to the Plaintiff and others by Gassman's neglect. A Plaintiff must file an injunction against Gassman's alleged Trust. Otherwise, he can continue to let the place decay unless the City actually cites and eventually condemns the property. Of course, you can argue that damages to Rogers Park in the form of a dip in property value may exceed the value of the property in order to forfeit it as part of the damages, perhaps.

In addition, you can sue for damages, but you have to prove damages by a preponderance of the evidence. The best thing to do is to call in a jury. Once the litigation starts, and the white shoe law firm uses up Gassman's retainer, the other shoe begins to drop. If the case is dismissed, then it can often be appealed in good faith.

Gassman and his arguable interlocking directorates and holding companies have "deep pockets." However, he may have taken out loans against the properties, with what 'may' be an appraisal "made according to instructions" for use by Citibank, among others, from my unique vantage point. This may get verified in discovery. If he doesn't start spending on the property to rehabilitate, then he may have to start spending with the bar and it won't be Spin, either, just arguably provable fact. Sometimes, the community has to consider who is around and what can be done about it.

To Recap, here are the addresses, the information, and the alleged slumlord:

6979 N. Sheridan

AKA 1149-1155 W Lunt

AKA 6971-6981 N SHERIDAN, PIN 11-32-200-001

Owner: 6981 N. Sheridan, Inc. President: David Gassman

840 Heather Lane, Deerfield, IL

Tel: 773-327-7711 (Spin Nightclub)

Maybe, if Alderman Moore is reading he might rethink about who his friends are and whether they even give a crap about Rogers Park! When an Alderman claims that he is fighting slumlords, only to let one waltz right in and subsidize the Moore war chest, then his days should be numbered. Moore should have learned from former Alderman Eisendrath's decision; move up or out. I hope that Evanston and Jan Schakowsky really pay attention to the politicians that may 'come a courting.'

So when will Moore begin to genuinely care for Rogers Park and not people like the Gassman? News at 10? Or have they forgotten about us as well? Hopefully, Gassman puts some money into renovating 6981 North, rather than sitting on it. Frankly, I could see a really good parody of the Taxman by the Beatles coming out of this one!

The Gassman

[An Ode to a Publicly Declared and Arguably Unregulated Repetitive Contributor of Alderman Joseph Moore]

Let me tell you how it will be,

There’s one for Moore, nineteen for me,

‘Cos I’m the Gassman,

Yeah, I’m the Gassman.

Should five per cent appear too small,

Be thankful I don’t take it all.

‘Cos I’m the Gassman,Yeah yeah,

I’m the Gassman.

(If you drive a car car), I’ll slime your street,

(If you try to sit sit), I’ll invite drug addicts to piss on the seats,

(If you get too cold cold), I’ll turn off the heat,

(If you take a walk walk), I’ll summon rats to bite your feet.

Gassman.‘Cos

I’m the Gassman,

Yeah, I’m the Gassman.

Don’t ask me what I want it for(Ah Ah! Alderman Moore!)

Unless you want to smell some more (Ah Ah! Mister Gerhardt!),

‘Cos I’m the Gassman,

Yeeeah, I’m the Gassman.

Now my advice for those who die, (Gassman!)

Put up with my blight upon your eyes, (Gassman!)

‘Cos I’m the Gassman,

Yeah, I’m the Gassman.

And you’re putting up with no-one but me,(Gassman).

I wonder if Moore will continue to accept Gassman's money? In my humble opinion, we seem to live in a world of Rezko's just yearning for Federal Attention.

Howard Street Terminal - New Entrance Opens on June 9, 2008

2008-06-05T23:34:00.004-06:00

This is the moment that terminal riders have been waiting for. The possibility of riding escalators less likely to reek. Yes, after years of seeing the blue prints and years after the ground broke, the new terminal is scheduled open in three days. The old portion will likely be closed for its renovation based upon my recall of the plans.

It would be nice to have a walkway to the second floor parking lot wall. How easy was that? Imagine how easy it would be to get from point A to B in addition to the safety factor of easier accessibility. It seems like a no brainer. Oh well, still no restrooms and that can really hurt! Yet, J. C. Decaux remains completely untapped by CTA Officials who schuck and jive after failing to re-evaluate its inconsistent and ridiculous ban on bathrooms. What would it take to act like many normal major metropolitan cities and at least promote privatize restrooms. Think Olympics? How many atheletes will you upset? Maybe, if we e-mail Daley about the much sought after five rings, he might buckle on banos?

What's the point? Well, a wise person would come up with a way to simultaneously encourage sanitation, prevent vandalism and promote safety. However, we must depend upon well connected so-called experts with an agenda, who have no appreciation or clue that the trade offs of installing a restroom are well worth it to the ridership.

Yet, after all is said and not done, I have to marvel at how inept Mid America seems in failing to rent out nearly all the store fronts that line the Terminal at Gateway Plaza. When I went to its website to search for Gateway, I found no listing. It shows how interested they are in renting or selling the property. Not! Who owns Gateway, anyway? Duncan Donuts?

Canoeing and Kayaking Near Rogers Park?

2008-05-30T21:44:00.007-06:00

The Friends of the Chicago River make this clear. There are places near Rogers Park to launch a canoe, kayak, or crew team. Friends has good maps to help make the trip work at no charge. We purchased our first canoe at Sam's Club for less than $250 with tax about seven years ago. No one seemed to figure it out. It took us little time to find the Oakton Boat Launch at Oakton and McCormick. For those who have witnessed the Herons on a serene weekday, it is fascinating that these options exist within cycling distance,yet are ignored by many Chicagoans.

Maybe it is fear of the unknown. Maybe they make an excuse that they will get hit by a golf ball or think that the earthy smell by the filtration plant off McCormick is pollution. The Northshore Channel 'had' a reputation. However, over time, the fish, turtles, herons and other life have returned. The area is a mecca of tranquility for anyone wanting a relatively peaceful moment in nature. You can take canoe tours off McCormick. However, if you have past experience, the Friends of the River is looking for volunteer Canoe Guides

I can't understand why the crew teams are nearly the only ones who use the Dammrich Rowing Center at 3220 W. Oakton, but this is changing. Dammrich is not the only boat launch or nearby River. Another launch is off Devon in back of the Whealan Swimming Pool at 6200 W. Devon near Super Dawgs. If you want to canoe with a group consider Chicago River Canoe and Kayak at Oakton; they have Moonlight Dinner Paddles.

If you fear dams and the trip back, then speak with an expert. Ralph Frese is one of the foremost canoe experts in the Midwest. Chicagoland Canoe base rents and sells both canoes and kayaks. Ralph will also equip you with a rack and instructions on how to keep the canoe securely strapped at highway speeds. Of course, we now have a kayak store in Rogers Park, but if we don't use it or it does not create options for residents, it will not sell.

I have heard of at least one Chicago high school student, who travelled by kayak to classes at Northside College Prep. Yet, I have not heard of anyone who has enough time to kayak to the loop. Cycling is about an hour and twenty at a reasonable pace from north Rogers Park to the South Loop.

Is there any reason why residents need to make excuses that their local environment doesn't have options other than concrete? I guess it all depends upon what we want to do with our time.

Vandalism at Armstrong School Greets Students After Memorial Day

2008-05-27T06:41:00.006-06:00

The spraypainted mess of black and red flaunted its gaze upon us. Two selfish messages of blight appeared on the southside of Armstrong School. The taggers spray painted the limestone monument and yellow brick wall west of Hamilton and Greenleaf. My daughter and I encountered it upon our arrival at the bus drop off for Disney. Why do tagging vandals fail to understand the consequences of blight?

A photograph does little justice. Only clean up, deterrence, and perhaps remorse by selfish vandals will make adifference. I hope that the Rogers Park Community contacts Armstrong School. Perhaps, the tags can be quickly and carefully cleaned up as soon as possible with community consideration and support. Perhaps, it can be made to appear as if it never happened.

I won’t post a photo, because taggers’ want negative attention. A tagger's mark is a form of callous hatred and insensitivity for a community. If the huge Limestone sign must be replaced, then that is both a burden and a disappointment. Those who glorify graffiti and tagging do Chicago and the public schools a disservice. The Public School System can ill-afford the financial costs taken from educational funds due to those who damage and tag public schools. Schools need to afford to pay engineers and teachers to remain viable educational institutions. However, not in that order.

Blight can be litter, but also forms of insensitivity, bias and hate. Blight is also the spray painted tags from selfish taggers. Why don’t taggers care or realize that they commit acts of disrespect and greed? Why are taggers never taught to care by their parents, among others? How can we appreciate and divert the greed and inconsideration that taggers possess? Do we have to incarcerate taggers until they appreciate that they are no freer to kill than to damage property?

The taggers’ mark brings no prestige, only emotional and visual anguish to most residents. It contorts and converts messages of importance and improvement into a selfish act that defiles. A tag defames structures for the sake of greed and notoriety. A tag is a message of hatred and selfishness directed at an entire community. The cost of removing a single tag is more than just the money it costs for clean up or replacement. Tags must be perpetually and quickly removed or they multiply.

Graffiti or tags bring negative attention. Tagging, in effect, creates attention for selfish cowards. These attention seekers lack an agenda in life other than to pollute. Society may accept well painted murals and public art in our community, many of which now need extreme rehabilitation, but not the graffiti add-ons! Yet, in the end, in spite of these public concessions, we are still faced with these selfish acts of greed, immaturity and inconsideration.

Some taggers insist that they are anarchists. Tagging is not consistent with anarchy; anarchy depends upon having faith and trust that mankind as a whole will know good from evil for more efficient justice. This is why anarchy rarely works, since Anarchy lacks a reasonably effective system of justice. Then, again, democracies depend upon trust, as well.

Tagging is blight. Blight is evil. No matter who and how you verbally frame or spin graffiti or tagging, it is 'rarely' done with permission. Those who permit or tolerate it merely encourage blight as a consequence. Tagging is a form of destruction, greed and theft, rather than art. Those who encourage or ignore blight have a direct negative impact on communities. There are financial costs and personal toil to remove blight. The longer a tag remains, the more of a challenge it is to remove.

Blight left on walls sends a message. It communicates to those around us that we forgot how to care. We should make an effort to eliminate blight, not act like it belongs. These lawless forms of disrespect and greed deserve our immediate attention.

Sources for clean up:

Hydrawash

The Closing of the Rogers Park Mind?

2008-05-24T08:21:00.006-06:00

Some know me. Others question why I try to maintain my anonymity. The reasons are practical. I don’t want to be a public figure nor derive notoriety or pleasure from my political position; it changes over time. I am not looking for attention, just communication. I don’t want to be the neighborhood blog bully or the most read blog about Rogers Park. I don't want to take pot shots to a private audience. All that I want to do is occasionally point out my pet peeves, preferences and positive thoughts to create constructive, and objective dialogue in Rogers Park.

A flurry of inconsistent but ongoing insults and pessimism won't improve the community. If someone goes inward and limits comments, then they create a one sided dialogue limited to an inner circle of like minded 'yes men.'

I appreciate compliments, but want to know whether I'm missing something, even from those who disagree. It happens. If I digress or criticize people who want notoriety, then I don’t take pleasure in the anxiety and frustration, but the outcome. I want change, but micro-managing a community doesn't work, nor fixating on national issues.

I try to steer people in a positive and less pessimistic direction, but am not a member of some sort of optimist's club. Perhaps, we need an Optimists Club in Rogers Park. Sometimes, I fail to communicate or miss the mark. We live among a few folks who occasionally ‘appear’ to thrive on attention at the emotional and public expense of others. Perhaps, we all have our moments. Perpetual criticism or kvetching is a concern.

It is okay to thrive on attention and criticize, when some good is accomplished. Yet, it seems unjust to me to nauseate the public. Also, focusing on what is going wrong, rather than what is going well in Rogers Park misses the mark. It is okay to report on the Police Blotter. It is okay to challenge politicians. Good faith attempts at political humor are appreciated.

However, calling someone a “slime ball” or personally attacking them simply for taking a political position that may open an intellectual dialogue are the marks of a blog bully. I am seeing some change and change is good. I have to complement some recent posts by Mr. Mannis as well as his report on the asbestos. I guess that I have never stepped into Moore's office to appreciate the money talks allegations, but regret the reports of those who feel that way.

Unfortunately, our media, whether it be ABC, CNN, NBS, or Fox cater to a broad series of niches and viewers. Networks now look for people who are not as cunning or concise as the Ed Bradleys’, Dick Cavetts’, and William Safires.’ In an effort to annoy and nauseate moderates, some abuse those who take a position by writing or attempting to help. The idea of just ‘hearing someone out’ has become a nuisance in the age of sound bites and insensitivity, not sensibility.

This is not an ode to the politically correct. It is acceptable to incorporate 'clever humor' in any public debate, but humor that comes at the expense of others may bring anger and hostility. Some focus on the issues and others on the individuals. Therefore, there are those who don’t know me, who will attack me for not coming out of the relative privacy of my closet. I have entrusted those who are either part of the media or simply neighbors with the option of knowing.

Some may recognize me by what I write or because I thought that what I wrote was worth their attention. Whether I think that the most prolific appreciate how to express themselves to Rogers Park in the midst of these challenges depends upon the moment. I think that we have a few Rebel’s without a Cause.

Morning Rituals/Wanda, A School Bus Driver Who Cares.

2008-05-20T22:14:00.010-06:00

The morning ritual begins every morning at 5:45 a.m. regardless of blogging or surfing. The alarm, complete with a seranade of about ten computer generated clock sounds, blares through our ears. The sound sends the morning message that it is time to levitate. The brain disses the day and the body rises and moves towards the bathroom.

Upon return, daughter's blanket is pulled from her shrouded body which lays petrified on the futon couch tucked neatly in the corner of the room. The dawn's early light blows playfully through the whites of my eyeballs as I move toward the bedroom in search of pants. I return to wake my daughter and feed the puppy.

There is a synchronicity in our household at times. We know when the day starts and the bus leaves. Eventually, daughter gets her clothes on. Usually, the clothes must be reviewed, since she seems to think that she lives in California. The temperature still ranges from 40 to 50 degrees. Capri pants will not work unless I want to cancel the appointments on the next day, risk default judgments, and rest on malpractice claims as my premiums shift skyward. Life is now setting in.

With clothes on, we check the remains in the white box that is encased in the wall. The fridge will remain enshrined until we finally begin the perpetually delayed kitchen remodeling. Nothing appeals to my daughter except milk. The cerial is never worthy of more than one or two bowls. Boredom with the characters that christen the cardboard boxes seems to set in too early. We are the proud owners of stale flakes and oat rings.

Now, Wanda

After reacting over socks and soreness, we check out the Motorola cable box and are reassured that it is 6:31 a.m. We are dressed, our jackets are on, and we are ready to head south to Greenleaf. Wanda waits patiently in her school bus as we, among others, succeed in moving in the serpentine manner necessary to get from our home to Armstrong School.

The Disney Magnet School's bus pick up is at Armstrong School,among other stops. The deadline is 6:40 a.m. Wanda, our bus driver, has proven herself to be one of the most attentive and reliable people. She works her bus with patient and sympathetic precision. Wanda is rarely off the mark. She is a bus driver extraordinaire on a mission that she makes every day with painstaking dedication. It becomes clear that there is more to her life than hand to mouth.

Today, as I and another parent headed east down Greenleaf, two kids rushed north down Hamilton in disbelief. You could sense the sweat and air swirl around them in their relentless gallop. The anxiety was great. Wanda had pulled out and headed west down Greenleaf. The bus turned left on its path toward Jordan Community. The two distraught students began the trip back home. There, their mother was tending to their youngest sibling. The two kids were less than enthusiastic about notifying Mom. Today, would she have to drive the clogged artery from Rogers Park to 4140 N. Marine Drive?

As her children walked north, an Atlantic Express Bus slowly came to a stop in the distance. It stood one block south, its red lights were glaring, while two childrens spirits began to rise. Wanda had stopped the bus, turned on the gear, and waited for two extremely excited school children. In less than twenty seconds, the bus door closed, the kids sat down, and Wanda proceeded.

I am told by a few of my neighbors that people just don't care. Don't believe it! Start caring! Maybe it will be Contagious!

He Who Parks in the Handicapped Parking Spot May Get Towed

2008-05-17T22:26:00.003-06:00

Well, we don't have any of these on our street, but I just caught the tail end of what seems to be an effort to tow someone in Rogers Park. Yes, among a few extreme events may come a night or two or three of mundane and routine Police actions.

In spite of 20/20, there are some that are attentive enough not to ignore these requests. For all of the times that a car is towed from a questionable spot in Fioretti's Ward ( just across the street from the Fire Academy on Jefferson), comes a reasonable effort. However, I sometimes wonder whether the spots are always necessary or the spot holder reasonably handicapped.

2513 W. North Shore - White Toyota in the Alley blaring music.

Of course, I can't vouch for what happens before or after I turned on the scanner. However, it seems rather uneventful. When will CPD tell The Lamp Post to turn down the volume? The last two weeks have been a little high on the decibel levels.

Evanston's Howard Street Condos, A View from Vacant Gateway Plaza, and Will Weekend Warriors Leave RP Cheetos Bags to Another Blogger Until Next Year?

2008-05-17T22:01:00.006-06:00

I have curiousity, but no knowledge. How many of the units are sold? Who is financing? Will it meet the same fate as Gateway Plaza?

For that matter, who owns or operates Gateway? Does the management Company with offices well outside Chicago really care? Why can't they fill many of the units or provide reasonable incentives for 100% occupancy? Has the Alderman chased out potential renters with his rhetoric? Do businesses fear that they will be labelled 'big box' or be subject to some sort of challenge by hack politicians with personal not civic agendas? What can be done to fill this joint? How many years has Gateway lay unreasonably dormant just south of Marshalls?

How was the clean up today? Will those who participated make cleaning up their neighborhood a routine part of the week? Or will this just be another moment for weekend warriors to converge on the Pop Tarts and T-Shirts only to leave the RP Cheetos bags for another Blogger?