My Audacities of Hope in Beat 2424 and the 49th Ward

1. That homeowners who behave badly, but 'really' want to sell their home learn to clean up the trash on their front lawn before they leave, since it might help inspire a new homeowner.







2. That neighbors who post political signs avoid setting a bad example on their front forty feet. It reflects on their candidate and their audacity of hope!








3. That dog owners clean up after their dogs, but consider cleaning up after fellow dog owners who leave nasty samples on their neighbors' lawns. Premise: guilt by association can be embarrassing and unfairly incriminating, but eliminating all evidence keeps the "no dogs on lawn signs" tucked away at the local hardware store.




4. That city cites homeowners who refuse to clean up the beer and liquor bottles on their grass, among other things like Tan cotton robes with flourescent highlights. These are not sacred garments or vessels, are they?

5. That the city starts towing away abandoned vehicles within a reasonable time after CAPs Beat 2424 residents post repeated complaints on the CAPs BBS.

6. That positive loitering becomes at least a bi-weekly event with reasonable advanced notice. If not, then consider taking a walk or adopt a dog, bring your blue bags/paper towels, and explore.

7. That the Potawattomi Park Outdoor lights are finally repaired after nearly two seasons without safe useable outdoor playing fields. This seems to me like the typically inept Chicago Park District bureaucracy in need of major resignations, disciplinary action, or Concerta. Is there a shrink in that house? Workers Comp anyone? Your kingdom for our non-union volunteer? Can we foot the bill? Did someone rip off the copper?

8. That Armstrong School or Jordan Community students win some major academic or cerebral competition that gets the schools the attention and respect that some of their students deserve. In the alternative, that local RP artists contact the art teacher and volunteer.

9. That people take care of their parkway property by picking up after themselves and each other, rather than pretending like Streets and San or the community service crew will clean it up. Word to the wise, Boy George is not coming!

10. That a Mack Truck with semi-trailer complete with drunk Redneck and frustrated love life roars recklessly up Rogers at a God awful hour like 4a.m. This after discovering that the bridge is once, again, too low for a trailer truck. All this occurs with a 'safe demolition' of the dilapidated commercial slum at Damen and Rogers, which hosts, The Ho.

No deaths or injuries, but substantial/reliable insurance policy in tact. News at Ten and via the Internet on the RP Broken Heart. Landlord for 7308 N. Rogers gets the cash, building is converted into a parking lot; no harm, no foul. [This is for entertainment purposes, ONLY! Don't get any ideas, since good insurance policies investigate before any payout]

Okay, the last audacity is a bit of an oxymoron, since it can cause death, but I can dream of a safe demolition or major renovation, can't I? I have no doubt that the commercial dive can be revamped with a laundramat, among other community needs. Three psychologically venomous blow darts for what seems to me like an irresponsible landlord with no interest in sprucing up the property to sell in good faith! Where's Joe! Was there a political contribution to stave off the heat? Who are these people, anyway? Would they tolerate this sort of crap in their neighborhood? The audacity of commercial slumlords in this neighbor's opinion!

For those who don't recall a previous post, the fence is still unmended, yet good humor still abounds.

CAPs 2424's Positive Loitering Makes a Difference - Parent Park Group Planned

A group of about 15 met at the corner of Custer (Damen) and Howard and had a great one hour walk in both Chicago and Evanston.

Positive effects of the walk. It displaced questionable loiterers and gave everyone a little exercise, as well. The presence, as a group (adults, children, and dogs) was sufficient to make them reconsider staying there.

Expect regular walks in the future. Evanston does them starting in late Spring. If we want a safer neighborhood, we need to do the same on our side. In addition to walks, a suggestion was made to start a Network2424 Parents Park group for the summer for Pottawattomie Park. Getting parents to the park is great, but making them part of an indentifiable group strengthens their presence.

Beat 2424/49th Ward Criminal Stats from 3/07 to 3/08, Improving, but 15th of 50. 2008 2424 Fifth Safest Regional Beat; 49th -9th Safest Ward (of 50)

RP Blogs focus on crime. The actual regional statistics for all crime appear, below, from Clear Map. Most directly relate to the population density in an area with lower populations and cemeteries seemingly safer. Beat 2424, to its credit, is a relatively racially integrated Beat. However, Beat 2424 contains a census tract with an alleged population that appears extremely underestimated. The 24th District, overall, claimed a significant drop in crime during January and February (could it be, the weather?), but March is unclear without further research.


Recent Local Crime Apparently Solved

For those unaware, the 7300 N. Ridge/2000 W. Chase $12 thugging was 'marked solved' on Chicago ClearMap by the Chicago Police. The crime is also alleged to have taken place at the 2000 Block of Chase. Complaints were likely filed in court, because arrests were reported. Convictions require the complaining witness to show up in court. Sometimes, this takes a bit of reasonable effort by a complaining witness, since subpoenas are sometimes overlooked. If the alleged victim is reading this, then show up to court and get the 'telephone numbers' (plural) of the prosecuting attorneys in the court room. Perhaps, Lorraine Swanson can look into whether there was an oversight on Clear Map or the names of the accused.


Positive Loitering, How to Report Grafitti and other Thoughts

The idea of 'positive loitering' was suggested by an experienced 2424 Beat member. It makes the most sense. Those who are concerned should walk their dogs, travel in groups of neighbors (to areas of concern). We are supposed to observe, with a law abiding presence, those with bad manners. This also encourages a bit of affirmative duty, where those with poor manners get out of control. For those interested in the finer art of 'positive loitering' ask about it on Beat 2424's BBS. The 2424 CAPS page is here. The 24th District Official Page is here. Finally, to report grafitti, you can use this online form.


How the Conclusions were derived and interpreted from the CPD Clear Map:

For this Annual Review, the 49th Ward rated fifteenth in the number of 'criminal reports' prepared from 3/2007 to 3/2008. The 49th Ward is 'in the white' so to speak on Clear Map, but arguably has a higher population than its neighbors. Beat 2424 is doing quite well 'in 2008' at 'fifth safest' for the region (of 13), compared with Annual totals at sixth safest. However, the census tract statistics and area covers a different region; it appears confusing on review, since the alleged population of 10,706 seems incorrect and less than reality.

As suggested, for the purposes of this report, 'the safest' is defined as the entire Beat or Ward with the 'fewest police reports.' Some Beats have good neighborhoods/pockets within them. Some crimes may go unreported or prove questionable. Also, complaints, such as assault, battery, domestic orders of protection, and theft reports may be the subject of 'he said/she said' scrutiny.


One Resident's Inquisitive Interpretation of the Data

The 2008 reporting area on ClearMap, Citywide, from 1/1/2008 to 3/30/08 suggests, as follows by lowest crime reports by Ward is, as follows:

1. 48 Ward - 275 police reports

2. 50th Ward -

3. 41st Ward -

4. 45th Ward -

5. 19th Ward -

6. 39th Ward -

7. 33rd Ward -

8. 38th Ward - 341 reports

9. 49th Ward - 352 reports

10. 40th Ward - 360 Reports

The gap between the 49th and the safest 48th Ward was 77 police reports as of March 30, 2008. However, the number of solved crimes may prove significant, as well. Perhaps, Craig Gernhardt or Tom Mannis has more time to delve into this puzzle, further. I don't have time to rake that muck, now. The 49th Ward is allegedly the 9th Safest, overall for the 90 day reporting period starting in January and ending on the thirtieth of March provided the data is reasonable.

Police Report Statistics by Beat on Chicago's North Side

BY BEAT, in our region (with fewest reports of crime on top) for the last 90 days. This covers 13 Beats across the north wards. The annual statistics provide further information on some of the boundaries.

1. 2022 - 33 police reports (see perimeters, below)

2. 2013 - 48 police reports

3. 2423 - 56 police reports

4. 2431 - 64 police reports

5. 2424 - 66 police reports (most are nearer to Howard but a block or blocks west of Ridge). The smaller homes nearer to St. Scholastica and close to La Cocina di Donatela are good buys for rehab, IMHO. Catholics with daughters who will enroll at St. Scholatica may want to consider their options in a down market. The Beat reports significantly less than a police report a day. I assume that traffic charges are a separate matter.

Beat 2424 has 33 more reports of crime than the safest Beat 2022, which includes Rosehill Cemetery.

WORST BEAT on Northside:

13. Beat 2433 - 136 reports (see perimeter, below)

Annual WARD STATS

The current ANNUAL WARD by WARD figure from the least to more police reports, subject to change (from 3/29/2007 to 3/30/2008):

1. 41st Ward - 1499 reports

2. 45th Ward - 1501 reports

3. 19th Ward - 1551 reports

4. 50th Ward - 1569 Police Reports (This may include the Obama/Osama paper graffiti trespass at Lunt and Sacremento)

5. 48th Ward - 1580 Police Reports

OUR WARD
15. 49th Ward - 2068 Police Reports

WORST WARD
50. 42nd Ward - 7861 Police Reports

Moore needs to think about improvement, rather than trying to put a spin on being 15th out of 50 Wards. Our neighboring 50th Ward is the fourth safest. However, it has a significantly lower population than the 49th, so this may be a fact of life for us until residents demonstrate more concern, among other things.

ANNUAL BEAT Review - of Far North Side, of the Beats that include the 49th Ward perimeter, the 2424 Beat fares, as follows for the last 12 Months, with the Safest on top:

1. 2022 - 177 Police Reports (Kenmore, Broadway, Bryn Mawr; Mostly Loyola U/Lakefront)

2. 2012 - 292 (Peterson, Western, Foster, Ashland; Mostly Rosehill Cemetery) Isn't this the 40th Ward?

3. 2421 - 313 (Pratt, Clark (east), Lunt (south), Lakefront; Craig's Beat?)

4. 2013 - 322 (Elmdale, Broadway, Clark (west), Foster)

5. 2423 - 328 police reports (Lunt (north), Clark (east), Jarvis, Lakefront)

6. 2424 -431 police reports (Pratt, Clark, Howard, Ridge (east)); it yellows in the denser populated apartment in northwest corner.

11. 2411 - 580 police reports (Kedzie, Howard, Ridge(west), Pratt) (Bernie's Ward is most of Beat 2411!Am I mistaken? Or is the crime mostly west of Western?)

WORST BEAT

13. 2433 - 705 police reports (Peterson, Ridge, Devon, Lakefront) Note: This was where the Dalof murder by Hollywood Video took place. I believe that this is also within blocks of where the police couple faced off and the wife than committed suicide on the sidewalk, but she and her husband actually lived a block or two west of the Lamp Post. Does anyone remember that one?

I understand that the Beats are supposedly divided by population density, not just by area. However, I don't think that Loyola University Students and dead folks are a very hostile bunch, so those that handle 2022 and 2012 are needed for coverage based upon the sheer area and the potential challenge, not the actual crime rate.

Criminal Due Process in Court

In a criminal court, a prosecutor (the attorney who represents Police and Illinois) must prove a defendent's guilt beyond a reasonable doubt. A judge or jury needs not do backflips with conceivability before finding someone guilty. As a matter of law no defendent is ever considered "innocent" after verdict contrary to news reports. They are simply found 'not guilty,' because the trier of fact (judge or jury) must find that a defendent (the accused/subject) is "guilty beyond a reasonable doubt." Crime and actual/appropriate punishment is a evasive concept that can cause unneeded agony.

The Now Fascinating Census Tract 010200

One final note for future comment. Beat 2424 contains part of 'census tract 010200.' This tract is a densely populated area of primarily apartments and condominiums. The 2000 census seems ridiculous when it estimates that area at only 10,706 residents. The 2000 census reported a 7% unemployment rate. It also reported that over 2100 of our residents 'were earning wages' at the poverty level.

The census is based upon self-reporting and arguably tax mumbo jumbo, as well, for some but not all. This census tract bounded by Ridge, Howard, Ashland, and Touhy reported quite a bit of crime. Strangely, some census tracts are mostly beach; during the winter, there were no reports of crime. Therefore, tracking crime in some Beats (Cemetery/University dominated) and census tracts (beach (821500), industrial or Forest Preserve dominated) can be deceptive, as well.

Conclusion

Over the last four or five years, bloggers have emerged and begun to track individual crimes. This puts a face and an image on events. This has an advantages, but does not put a big picture perspective on things. Micromanaging a few events may stop major ones. However, paying attention to the big picture may make the situation more understandable. Perhaps, GIS stats in the suburbs may prove both embarrassing or illuminating due to the lower population densities.

Most of us want our Community/Ward to have the lowest crime rate in Chicago. Perhaps, some disagree for what seems to me like demented reasons. Frankly, some of our beats have noticeably low crime rates, when contrasted with other Chicago beats. However, the numbers can be deceptive yet certainly improve. We don't have wait for incumbent politicians to tell us to stroll, do we? Start walking your dogs, pulling out the strollers, taking a jog, or strolling with some new acquaintances or friends! You might stop a crime.

Hit the Road Jack. Close the D, Lee, and Breath out and around RP this Weekend!

The suggestive effort and wisdom is brought to you by those of us aware that our environment is worthy of our attention. How many of us are sitting at home bumming in front of the boob tube? Blogging and beaming our pedantic e-mail into cyberspace as our neighbors walk with little attention given to our solitary confinement? Breath!

Berke will approve! We live in this cloaked environment, caught in our own oblivion of personal intellect. It weaves its web in pathetic cyberspace, Monday comes, and R&R is no more. We didn't water the lawn. The garbage is still on the parkway. The plan to do things was left undone. The trip to the beach just to breath Lake Michigan air will have wait another week, a month, a season, or next year. The bike ride to the lake shore tennis court, the Black Golf Course, and the photo spread now lost in the psyche of brain tissue and nerve synapses.

The trip to the obscure local restaurant or the use of a coupon before it goes out of business or simply expires may be worth the effort. La Cocina? Big Buns, Jamaican Jerk? Amphora? The Blue Nile? Bizmullah? The Big Burrito? The Oakton Street Boat Launch? Leone Beach? J. Millers for a furniture making class? What will we forget about next as we space out in cyberspace about someone else's grief?

I am curious which of my neighbors experienced the wrath of two ignorant thugs in search of chump change, not an apprenticeship with the Plumbing Council. Which of my neighbors or outsiders were ignorant enough to harass a local out of 12 measley bucks? Where was I with my cell phone or a pair of eyes to check out the goobers who had nothing better to do? I guess that I will be taking a few photos this weekend. Maybe I'll post them.

Perhaps, these photos will be a little more appealing or inspiring than a teddy bear and an empty vodka bottle elevated on an oak park bench? I hope the photographer cleaned up the mess when he was done. Maybe, I'll have to do it. Maybe someone else has the time. Maybe someone wants to check out the RP Train Station this weekend? The RP Garden Club deserves some praise for its efforts!

Fact and Fiction? Bias, Sensationalism, and Sources - Scrutiny of the Noah's Ark Fracas

Journalists can be distinguished from reporters. A journalist may provide all comments even the most questionable. A reporter arguably presents what is reasonably verifiable. The reporter is often a witness after the fact. A reporter offers the views of others willing to identify themselves. Journalists may incorporate innuendo, mask, or use questionable sources. Sometimes, reporter are encouraged by fate to become journalists on an event. Credibility of facts can be derived from those willing to accept or reject witnesses for what each is worth to a story. Gossip and journalism have similarities.

The ‘alleged’ 100 person melee on Howard seems like both gossip and journalism to me. Yet, Bud Ogle and Noah's Ark established a reasonable reputation in our community and his efforts were likely well intended. Working with disadvantaged youth and 'kids who have kids' is no picnic. Too many prefer to sidestep, to deport, or expect the sheriff to drop the offender off at the nearest turnpike. Few work with the challenge and overcome ignorance. However, the CTA worker and Mannis deserves credit for alerting Police and the community.

Chicago Police officials allegedly estimated the 'Noah's Ark crowd' at approximately forty teenagers. These estimates likely come from those who are ‘credible’ in estimating crowd control ‘at the time that police arrived.’ The Rogers Park Bench alleged that Friday’s Church dance party group exceeded one hundred. This arguably inflates the number of those who actually fought to exaggerate criticism of Bud Ogle.

I understand that some are upset with Ogle's decision to post Joe Moore's political signs. They also point to his staff's 'alleged' lack of hospitality to Ms. Wang. The implication is that the party kids were African American or Hispanic based upon the church that housed the event. The RP Bench article may inflame some readers. Maybe we should foster some understanding.

The RP Bench' reputable sources are unnamed John Q. Publics' and a CTA worker. This staffer is experienced or trained in the fine art of monitoring the entrance or transportation. However, he is ‘likely’ uneducated in crowd control and density estimation. It is unclear whether the observers were perched somewhere above or at street level. This creates a credibility gap. What exactly happened? Those who were there know the most, but no one has reasonably investigated other than Police, perhaps.

The Witnesses: A CTA Maintenance Worker v. Chicago Police

I have spoken with Howard Street Terminal workers over the years. Police are more reserved and not as chummy on the job. They are paid to take control, remain skeptical, and cannot afford an acquaintance who questions their authority. 'Heat of passion' is the number one cause of domestic and public violence. Let's 'cool our jets' for a moment.

When challenged, one biased and exaggerating CTA worker admitted ignorance about our community. He recognized that he no longer lived in Chicago. I do and so do many of us! Credibility is higher when you have an education, skin tone is paler, or your deeds are actually in the neighborhood. Some of us have earned the right to speak. Another great CTA conversationalist was a second generation Pole; look, I am a fourth generation Pole, among other things. Don't get me wrong, these are nice guys, great conversationalists, and journalists, but they refuse to contrast our dense population with events.

CTA subcontractors and maintenance workers are also around quite a diverse crowd. Some live in Evanston and Wilmette en route to the Loop. Some of the ridership prefers to live in more affluent and manicured existences with less diversity and fewer resources. What about their overall bias, credibility and veracity as depicted in the RP Bench?

Well, at least one CTA worker admitted to moving out. There is pride in the fact that this ‘gentleman John,’ as I call him, does not live in Chicago. This badge of success came out in our conversation. When I asked how much time he actually spent on the platform, then I learned that he moves around quite a bit and is not regularly perched off Paulina and Howard.

If more officers are needed in the 24th District, then Police are going to properly estimate. They must contain and control. This means you get squad cars out, quickly! Frankly, 15 to 20 squad cars are significant. I just don’t see that RP Bench CTA worker counting the squad cars from his location, let alone, viewing all from a non-descript vantage point. I don’t know that thirty 24th District squad cars are available given Craig’s 24th District estimate. Perhaps the Evanston PD joined in at the rumpus. Remember, this is a journal, not a report. Give it whatever weight you want!


Conclusions Drawn?

We are given numerous crowd estimates of the Noah's Ark Social Event; the uneducated CTA worker estimated 250% more than the Chicago Police. I just don’t believe, based upon living in Chicago since 1983, that forty or more kids were simultaneously fighting with each other. However, I was not there. I realize that the higher estimates will please Moore's detractors. However, I am not much of a Moore fan, either, these days, even if the guy once meant well. He reminds me of Eisendrath only Moore overstayed and Eisendrath recognized that the writing was on the wall and gave up on incumbency.

Some claim that the first near the scene are the most believable. How believable and for what purpose? After any dance, a crowd forms when the party ends. This crowd will likely contain both guys and dolls. Look, guys don’t dance with each other at many church functions!

Most teens will stand, observe, and hope to hang out just a little bit longer. A few may try to break up or silence those teens with too much testosterone flowing. Some probably wanted to leave with a member of the opposite sex. However, if these were church girls, then they were meant to entice better behavior, not machismo.

Bud Ogle's and his Good News Church tried to create a non-alcoholic safe social event. Noah's Ark seems to have run short on experienced chaperones. Police could have been dispatched to better monitor the end of the party. Ogle should find more chaperons or security; otherwise, Noah's Ark should not host the parties. Frankly, Ogle needs a good insurance policy, as well, but needs to better communicate with his neighbors.

Decisions on whom and when to arrest must be made in the best interests of the community. Sometimes, Police must use discretion. Sometimes, unreasonable provocation and response promotes a riot like the legendary 1966 PR Riot. Some are not charged for a variety of good faith reasons. The decision not to arrest happens in both Chicago and our suburbs to the angst and chagrin of conceivably well-meaning community members. Does anyone recall the Glenbrook North High School hazying video and controversy?

Most violence is ignited by ignorance and the heat of passion. More can be done than just belly aching. Defusing violence takes foresight, not hindsight.

Privacy and Purpose in an Age of Silent or Vocal Dissent

Some people can stand and deliver. Others shuck and jive. A few may tell it like it is. Some blow or spew verbal steam without realizing that they overlook reality to fit their present perspective. A few of us verbally gnaw each others psyche until we are alienated, nauseated, and frustrated. Most of us don't remain static in one of the these patterns. Perhaps, we remain silent or distance ourselves from mental challenges to our intelligence. Certainly, peace is a virtue, but not to the extent that an oppressive, questionable, and unreasonable status quo looms on our horizon.

Most of us refuse to comment and opt out as observers of another's agenda or perception. Opting out is not always a 'cop out.' We remain silent for several reasons. Perhaps, it is likely that the other person will appear aggressive, outraged, or simply won't pay attention. No one wants to appear ignorant, ignored, or overlooked. However, in doing so, a minority may hijack morality for the sake of unreasonably dominating our cheerished freedoms. Dissent without action may evolve into consent.


In many nations, privacy is not an option. Silence and submission is! In our nation privacy has become a shrinking commodity. Our right to remain silent and the option to have our preferences kept confidential 'may' be sacrificed even though the 'data diggers' had the best intentions. In its place, products are improved and facts released, but in its wake lives are scrutinized. Aren't these sharp tactics arguably unfair and ethically questionable? Will a past, present or future position or vote remain private, persecuted, or proselytized?

We are criticized for seeking neutrality and objectivity in spite of our ignorance or perspective. Our perspective may be reasonable yet deviate from others. We are panned or praised for our desire to seek some pinnacle of virtue. We accept, ignore, wade, or welcome the consequences of reaching or losing attentiveness while seeking reasonable goals. We scold or are scolded due to our shortsighted vision of what we perceive as civic, personal, professional, and parental responsibility. Such a moral compass is sometimes uncertain and vacillating.

The moral magnetism driving us north can prove elusively south, yet appeal to a minority. Some of us are bullheaded in our pursuit of reality and reason. In our elusive aims, we forget how to treat each other. We raise our voices and point our words in righteous indignation. Perhaps, only to later realize that we have overstated the obvious or ignorance to someone alienated and numbed by our messages.

One aspiration is that those who lose touch and those numbed by ignorance will return to some sort of appreciation and humility. That is, an apology in deeds or its acceptance is not a form of weakness. Rather, a reckoning form of strength for those willing to listen. Those who are outspoken or those who are on the receiving end should appreciate that the voice of reason need not always be expressed in rhetorical or condescending tones. We should appreciate and occasionally exercise our bill of rights unlike those without one. Otherwise, we may get bent and out of shape.

Rogers Park Garden Club Metra Project on Sunday @ 1pm

Consider helping with this Garden improvement event on Sunday to improve the Rogers Park Metra Station. Also, vote with your e-mail message to support the grant for RP Metra Project at www.mytownhelper.com. Click on links, below, for more information. The project should progress quicker with more consistent support, particularly from families and/or neighbors who tend to lurk, not work.

http://web.mac.com/rrouilly/iWeb/RPgarden2/Home/Home.html


http://www.myhometownhelper.com/ViewProject.aspx?tell=1&id=40744

Chicago's Water Supply One Big Pharmaceutical Question Mark?

Some of us may have read about the pharmaceutical cocktail that likely awaits us at our faucets. This drug contamination in the nations water supply is by no means limited to major City limits but likely stretches outside to the major metropolitan areas. The ABC and the New York Times have some pretty good coverage. Still, as Hal Zenick of the EPA's office of research and development put it in an e-mail message to the New York Times, “there is uncertainty as to the risk to humans.”

Chicago, in its infinite fear opted out of testing. Recently, Rod insisted that Ravenswood get tested in an effort to verify whether sleeping pills, among other compounds, may have kept Blagojevic from making more trips to Springfield. However, there is a known solution to this mess; a reverse osmosis ["RO"] water filtration system. Frankly, even WebMD admits, "The water supply has a drug problem."

Some fear the cost to purify water, but for less than $500 a 50 gallon RO unit and tank can be yours. That is cheap insurance. There remains uncertainty about the long term consequences of trace and ongoing unneeded anti-biotic exposure. The RO process completely eliminates pharmaceuticals from the water supply according to well placed sources. However, you must replace the filters every year or two. Otherwise, you may ruin the membrane. Even the filter replacement cost is minimal when compared to the benefits. We have owned a Culligan RO unit since 1990 and the new non-Culligan units are half the price and twice the capacity of the older ones.

For some of our more pessimistic Rogers Park blogging community, the prozac and zantac may prove to be welcome additions to their households. Again, there is a solution worth considering, where you don't want the city's runoff of anabolic steroids to leach into your barley soup.

Consider Culligan, but I am sure that there are other vendors. Culligant rents units, but it also sells them at what once seemed like premium prices.

Again. For those who wish to bulk up on your water, then wait for Mayor Delay and the City Clown Cell to figure out how to deal with the waste water generated by RO. For those who want to invest in a healthy future, consider purchasing an RO unit on your own.

Thomas Dalof Saga - What about the other Thugs?

Should the media fixate exclusively upon Boubacar Bah? He is alleged to have intentionally hit Thomas Dalof with his 1994 Buick Skylark in Edgewater near Granville and Lakewood. What about the four or more guys who kept Dalof and his friend from leaving in another friend's car?

When you aide and abet a crime, you can be considered an accomplice or co-conspirator. Obviously, Dalof's surviving friends can hopefully identify these co-horts. I hope that Police consider other counts and suspects. Those who cajole others to commit voluntary manslaughter deserve to be charged, as well, even if a jury must struggle with whether to convict.

Where was the bouncer? Was Bah and his buddies served until they were blitzed? Will that liquor license be pulled?

What's the deal with Weed? Or Abbie Hoffman?

What is the deal with weed? Why is it such a forbidden and offensive herb? This cured plant that causes grown men to get the munchies was always a questionable scourge! Why do the ‘Congressionals’ and Legislators have such a ‘hard-on’ against the transportation, possession, sale and use of Cannabis Sativa?

I have pondered these edicts and have come up with no logical basis. The only arguable purpose is to save the lungs of the common man, while perpetuating the “Reefer Madness” myth demonizing dope for the sake of hooch. I don’t smoke anything, but if I had the choice, and ‘Maui Wowie’ was decriminalized, then it would not be a pack of Marlboros.

I mean . . . why is it that grown men in uniforms or walkie talkies chase teenagers, waste tax payers’ money, and isolate them for selling or smoking Columbian Gold? Why did our Government punish the populace with paraquat? The answer lies! There is no rational answer!

For hundreds of years man has hybridized, subsidized, and smoked commercial grade nicotiana only to get lung cancer. Yet, we cannot face the fact that not only is there medicinal uses, but also recreational, and even commercial uses for hemp.

We are so married to our depressing Budweiser that we forget that drinking and driving kills more than toking with the Toyota. Obviously, irresponsibility is inevitable and that requires law enforcement’s attention. Currently, we have codified away a freedom that may not necessarily impact others with rational controls.

In the Seventies, I had the pleasure of meeting quite a few intelligent people, who occasionally smoked grass without fabled enduring side effects. I enjoyed my days spent in the Aragon or the Uptown. In the eighties, I finally met Abbie Hoffman at Northwestern University. Abbie ‘was the movement’ to legalize weed.

Hoffman shocked the nation by sending weed to the middle class and middle aged in number 10 envelopes each containing two joints and instructions. He was one of the most humorous and politically astute people that graced this Earth with their presence. The recent Looney Toon like cartoon called Chicago Ten makes Abbie 'look like' Don Imus, among others, but that is not the point.

I am glad that Abbie published before he passed on. However, he was a zealot. Regrettably, in his ultimate moments, he was a deeply depressed dude desiring to die. I am proud that Abbie was a Reform Jew. I like to say that Abbie was a ‘reformed Jew’ in that he was totally oblivious to the unrighteous stigmas created by society. Sometimes, I wonder if Hoffman’s mailing list came from his Temple.

I am sure that it brought disappointment for Abbie to hear about Jerry Rubin’s last jaywalk after Hoffman resurfaced to face Court. However, it was unfortunate that Abbie refused to look for a logical way to overcome his agony and depression; his humor brought tears of joy to many of us. I mean he was ‘right on’ so far as his sensitivity to political realities; his humor hit home. This is how he and others instilled the ‘Woodstock Nation;’ it was and is a state of mind.

I wonder whether Abbie had ADHD, among other things. I wish that we had the opportunity to see Abbie grow more humorous. On the day that he passed away, I drove to Lincoln Park. I walk in what I believed was the location of the ‘Watermelon site’ organized by the Woodstock Nation. I was the only one in the Park at Midnight. I pondered as to what was next as I walked the cement tightrope wall by the monument. Where do I go from here? I have taken the ‘Abbies’ of this world for granted.

Well, I stopped smoking weed just before I quite smoking cigarettes in the early ‘80s. My justification for one was no different than the other. I prized my lung capacity more than the tar, THC and nicotine. That was over twenty years ago. It had little to do with the law, but more to do with the fact that I did not want to play Russian roulette with my lungs.

Later on, a colleague encouraged me to smoke a cigar or two every six to eight months. However, that ended about two years later when an angiogram found plaque over ten years ago. I also quit to avoid disqualification under a new life insurance policy. Frankly, when I woke up in the morning on those few occasions, I dreaded the sensation of cigar tar in my stomach, so it was not much of a sacrifice.
Now, in 2008, we have come full circle. We have finally banned tobacco smoking. Now, the Marlboro man is anathema. He died, but not before his lust for smoke ended. Near the end, the less than magnificent cowboy model for Phillip Morris personally refuted his poor judgment. He did this while attached to the oxygen tank keeping his emphysema under control.

In spite of this edict and that of John Wayne after he, too, kicked the cow dust too much, we still have people smoking and square dancing at NASCAR into the new millennium. They are still puffing on their pack of Palls or hacking on other ‘coffin nails’ as Ronald Reagan did in the fifties. Some probably wished that Reagan continued, but no such luck, since we learned why Bush lost to Reagan. Unfortunately, Gore and Kerry were too blow dried to bellow brilliantly from their buttresses, as well, but Nader never nudged enough either.

Well, we still have Chicago’s finest chasing a few kids with a joint, while trying to tackle Thai stick on Touhy. All that we have done is to create a market whose price escalates for no other reason than to get a rise out of society. We also have a market that encourages those who’s reasons to smoke are to question authority or seek solace. In exchange, we have trained dogs and delved into people’s privacy for the sake of social control. Has the experiment worked? Well, our expanding detention and prison system says enough about our conception of justice.

One of the few comparable nations recognizing the realities of this challenge is the United Kingdom. In a system that provides addicts with options, true drug abusers seem to have figured the situation out in the U.K., but it takes time. Some of us appreciate that Pot is an herb that can be used for many purposes for commercial gain. There are ways to imbibe that create a high, not a die in many people without the need to even smoke it.

Yet it, among other substances, is illegal, which is an unfortunate fact that awaits eventual objective re-evaluation. A conscious parent can objectively explain the ups and downs to a receptive child, who can make reasonable choices given good judgment and the current laws.

It does not take a rocket scientist to proclaim that controlled substances, including whiskey, in excess, can hurt you. I appreciate the effects of THC, but I don’t think that we have to continue to label tens of thousands of people as criminals. This does not stop substance abuse. It seems prejudiced in that those without a good attorney or prestige get convicted. Some who are oblivious to the consequences of a criminal conviction mess up their chance at getting employed or get deported, among other things.

The idea that a few joints on your free time create havoc at the work place is questionable at best. I wonder about current scientific data and the objectivity of the sources. No, I don’t donate to NORML, nor am I a criminal attorney. Frankly, I prosecuted cases at one point. If I decided to resume doing so, then I would obligate myself to enforce all criminal laws including the more questionable ones. Perhaps, that is why I don’t prosecute, nor do I savor representing anyone charged with drug crimes.

In my halcyon days, I had no horror stories with herb. The euphoria worked for me, because I kept one thing straight. If you cannot party with good acquaintances or friends, then just don’t party. Passing the peace pipe was not passé. That and the fact that our home must now be excessively clean is probably why my scotch bottles remain relatively full. The phobia for guests seeing 'our dust' overwhelms the significant other. Instead, I drink tea from Assam to Zulu, because its legal, not a depressive, and the flavor will not diminish my depth perception.

May our nation get brilliant and legalize, abandon its most materialistic urges, and may we begin to appreciate the finer points of a democracy with lasting peace. Anarchy is cute with its scarlet letter, but a relatively organized yet non-conformist house need not always be divided for the hell of it. Although, I don’t plan to smoke cannabis or tobacco, I don’t see why a person cannot do so in the privacy of their home or some open field as long as the smoke does not reasonably offend or seep too far out.

This is for Aron, Ben, Kim, and Larry, Ron, and Steve, but not necessarily in that order.

The Letter Please? CPS Releases Academic Center Results

Well, the writing was on the wall, but the CPS Academic Center acceptance remains bittersweet. Perhaps, our child should be grateful for this lesson at a young age. Our sixth grader will make the transition from Decatur Classical to an Academic Center. The results arrived today. Last year 29 children from the entire Northside were selected for Young Academic Center. Our child ships out to Taft Academic Center [“TAC”] this fall. I am looking forward to it.

We learned, too late, that fifth grade Chicago Public School [“CPS”] transcripts count. However, we certainly encouraged and worked with our child. What the CPS ignores is our gain. Decatur Classical School teaches one or two grade levels above the overall CPS System. This means that Decatur grades seem not as watered down as the other schools. The ISAT scores at TAC are 100% above in both Math and Reading, which is as good as Young Academic Center.

Some may question the above mentioned assumption of the Decatur grading system. Our other child, who is in a near gifted program at another renowned CPS institution received straight As. Perhaps, our younger child’s grades, not the test scores will catapult into a Young Academic admission in spite of lower test scores.

Some parents presume that Young Academic Center is the best option, but I am not necessarily convinced. Taft also provides AP College credit to Academic Center Students. The kids probably prefer Young AC, because it is newer and has better facilities. However, I favor the idea of a child rising up like a Phoenix from this slight setback. It may be worth its weight in gold. Perhaps, another selective enrollment high school becomes our child’s target, not just ours. This is real life. Kids just cannot get this in the suburbs!

We unconsciously preferred a few of the other selective enrollment high schools, so Taft Academic may be the better option. Nevertheless, this can also serve as a wake up call. There was some resistance with the temptation to runescape, among other diversions. This challenge always pits one parent against another for our child’s affection. Now, our kid may actually listen to me, among others.

I felt like our tween may have acted like an academic prima donna, when potential study time may have been used more wisely. We can be more encouraging and set limits, but we do well in spite of the situation. Now, I hope that this letter proves to be an inspirational moment. There will be a separation from more successful classmates and friends. Some seem to have studied harder or expressed more interest. The test scores were not an issue, here; just a draconian grade scale.

The gifted academic center programs at all Chicago Public Schools contain children and parents who remain fiercely dedicated to those schools. This leaves few, if any, spaces for transfers. We never wanted our child to attend Lincoln Park High School for personal and practical reasons, so we ‘flinched’ at the Ogden interview. Consequently, if your child can attend a Classical School, or is an overachiever at a local school, then consider applying and testing for the CPS Academic Centers.

Now, our goal will be to work to improve an already exceptional program at Taft Academic Center. We will also hope that our child appreciates that hard work can eventually pay off.

If you reasonably consider the CPS System and learn how to navigate, then the Academic Centers and Gifted Programs are more than worthy of consideration. Both populations usually eclipse the suburbs on test ISAT test scores, because all students are dedicated and so are their parents. However, you have to live in Chicago to attend and some are 'big hat, no cattle' types.

I guess some just don’t appreciate the advantages of living in Rogers Park. Perhaps, a few would rather pay excessive real estate taxes or pay High School tuition. A few of us will put ourselves into mega-debt to show off to a few neighbors or refinance for University tuition only to have an academically ungrateful child who drops out.

The Rogers Park Tourist - News @ 11pm

Six bells and all is well. Hark, who goes there? Tourist? Meandering around and bothering natives with camera clicking? Fie on thee scurvy demented soul. . . yeh say ye are rrrr local? What would a fine lad like you be dithering with a box like that stealing people's souls?

Arrrrrrrrrrrrrrhhhh, expecting an opportune moment to catch the heathen slithering in around ye ole tracks and onto the platform? Have ye no fear, pagan; the heathen will slice your neck and roast yer ears for supper? Where is thy reason, boy?

I am so tired of hearing the blotter, blithering ignorance, and review of a few power tripping anonymous comments! This is not a reference to the routine gossip among the RP blogging community. Believe me! When do some begin to live and 'get a life? Let's here it for anonymous in his/her refusal to take any responsibility for a few questionable comments about Rogers Park.

I am an at dusk person, who routinely experiences RP at night, whether it is on the Howard Terminal Platform or waiting for tips or wings at Buffalo Joes. I don't fixate on peoples' Football or Baseball jerseys. I have better things to do than predict who is the L.A. Raiders fan, the poser, or the few pumping for power at some gangster picnic or street corner.

Well, tonight, I got a kick out of the mocking that someone left on the dust covering some of Standard Parking lot's finest patrons: "Tow me . . . I dare you." Does anyone think that Gabriel from Standard's centeral office in Streeterville gives a crap about freeing up some of those parking spaces and giving the 'Lincoln Pirates' their just desserts?

I suppose a few posers have spoken in RP, but perhaps they are from some other community. The power of the internet. Do you believe everything that you read. Do you objectively pay attention to everything that you see? Has anyone forgotten that segregation was supposed to end in the Seventies but for prejudiced real estate agents on a mission to limit diversity and prosperity.

We should not pretend that St.Margaret Mary’s Parish has been overcome by the sentries of Stoneville! Three hail Mary’s, but no great volleys of gun fire here! Head South, my man, head south, but veer away from 26th and Cal! The Paddy wagon is not a cool ride.

Frankly, I am too busy trying to make some cents out of life, rather than freaking out over a few northbound yuppies with BMWs. Well, at least I can get here from there without selling crack or cracking a few ribs for that matter! I have lived on and off in RP for over forty years; get used to it! Yes, some of your neighbors actually have pale complexions and have lived here for years wih both day and evening jobs.

Lions and Tigers and Bears? Use common sense and if you don't have the street saavy, check out J. J. Bittenbinder. BTW, that is one heck of a handlebar moustache!

Faith, George Michael, and Opening the Door to Strangers

Six years ago, I did what all of us are told not to do. I opened the door for a complete stranger, or at least the first of two doors and quickly closed it. The solicitor began to talk, but my first impression was not too good and my patience incredibly short. In a blink, about two seconds into the black leather workout gloved stranger's delivery, my door closed. He was not exactly dressed for success. However, I heard enough to know that he wanted to work as a handyman of sorts. Another approach, a little advanced warning, some references and the incident would have never happened. He probably was harmless.

George Michael, or so I fondly call him, had faith, but I had little. His shoulders were sheltered by a black leather jacket with silver rhinestones. I could feel the word 'revenge' etched on my soul. I, too, had done my time going door to door for Greenpeace through the north and south suburbs during one to three evenings a week. In exchange, I received a commission, but I was educated enough to inspire a few people not only to join and donate, but to actually appreciate and be a part of the decision that was made, hopefully.

Anyway, within about a year or two, our fearless Greenpeace leader had to resign, because he shot off one too many bottle rockets at the Zion Nuclear plant and filmed footage to display his sensationalistic frustration with security, but that is old news to the core and serious digression. This is meant to display how totally unprepared I was for someone at our front door. A minor digression to make a point that I am sympathetic, but I wore a polo shirt, docksiders, and khakis for Greenpeace. I dressed like a University student and put my best first line forward. I also froze for Greenpeace, as well, from time to time and I recall my feet feeling like drumsticks ready for frying at Buffalo Joes.

I have to take some credit for my closed mindedness and gut reaction, which is normal. First, the guy was not dressed for success so to speak. Dressing like George Michael in black motorcycle gang leather, perhaps with shades in your pocket and black leather workout gloves does not win customers. In addition soliciting in those garments at 7:30 pm without an advanced flyer is less than target marketing to homeowners; freaky is an understatement, IMHO.

Of course, if you warn your neighbors of your unique and distinct garb and the need to moonlight, then you may encourage a more receptive audience. Particularly, if you live down the block with the folks. Of course, if you say hello every once in a while from the sidewalk, it does break down a few barriers, but if you are still a stranger, you are going to have to find a way to network, get street credibility, and then let people know that you are available, as needed.

Most of us are not going to open the door without some advanced notice from those who dress like George Michael about to sound off on the "Faith" video. If 'this George' is out there, albeit, living with a different identity, then I regret closing the door without giving you the time of day. However, what did you expect at 7:30 p.m. on a weekday. Guttennacht.

NIU - Remember the Victims, Forget the Attacker!

Yesterday's incident is just another example of the sorry state of mental health in the U.S. A few people are so primed, that they go off without talking to anyone out of fear for the stigma attached.

Anger management and violence have little to do with gun control, but everything to do with the fact that some people have their priorities so screwed up that none of us know until it is too late. Many foreigners often find the stigma of mental health care to be too embarrassing or costly. Life is priceless and so is peace of mind.

If the ex-student was currently enrolled at UIUC, then perhaps he could not cope with the change. If the media and the public find mental health a stigma and embarrass those who try to seek help, then those silent with serious issues may simply find death a means to end their internal dilemma. Religions have to consider realistic options and evolve in their perceptions, but so does treatment. Some conditions may be curable or misdiagnosed.

This guy, like those who look to terrorism to get respect, should be disrespected by putting their names in oblivion.

We should remember the victims and obscure the terrorists, whether they are home grown or otherwise. Whether they claim affiliation or act on their own.

Society needs to look at what makes these folks tick and get ticked off. We need to find outlets and not be recreationally and socially adverse. There is a place and a time for almost everything, but obvious not this.

Shooting off comments about gun control and even enacting a ban it will not stop violence. Those bent on it can pull out a butcher knife just as easily and attack a New York Psychologist like Kathy Faughey.

http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/23143942/. Let's work on stopping the causes of violence, not merely pretending that a gun ban or conceal/carry will cure all evil.

"Si Se Puede!" Anita Alvarez Wins!

Both the location and state of mind symbolized a renaissance this evening. Some of us gravitated in that direction with an incredible lightness of being. Today we voted and this evening we celebrated with Anita Alvarez. My sensitivities are an easy to follow diagram. I regret that I anticipated more from the Devine endorsement, but realized that character can prevail when it counts. Consistency is the hobgoblin of simple minds.

There were two highly qualified candidates for Cook County States Attorney, but the most effective one won. I was in total shock and satisfaction this evening; it was the best possible outcome. The last minute poll was icing. Anita even did it without making a mess!

Anita will become not only the first woman, but the first Hispanic to hold the position of the Cook County States Attorney. She earned it! As some may know, Devine held back his endorsement and tried to remain neutral. However, when the chips were down, it was Anita, not a gaming lobbyist, who beat the odds.

This was reminiscent of Harold Washington's win. The votes were so split up, that the Hispanic vote had only one candidate and she was also a woman. Que suave! Que dulce! Que bueno! It was the perfect storm and it could not have happened to a more qualified candidate. Cook County has made the brightest decision of this primary. It has chosen a level minded prosecutor, who is an effective administrator, as well.

For those who followed Anita's rise, she beelined through what seemed like a politicized mudslide of mediocrity. Some with prominent pedigrees had so much fear of Alderman Allen, that each failed to respect the Hispanic vote. It assumed that Luis Guitierez would bring home the bacon for Suffredin. I was totally awed and floored; Devine's delayed endorsement was a blessing for Anita Alvarez. It is no small feat for prosecutors who have never run for office to take on accomplished political thespians like Allen, Brookins, and Suffredin.

49th Ward Political Information - Polling Places-Sample Ballots -CBA Judge Recommendations Links

For those of us with last minute Voting Compulsions

Objective Listing without Prejudice -

Find your polling place:

http://www2.chicagoelections.com/voterinfo.php















Sample Democratic Ballot

http://www2.chicagoelections.com/docs/ballots/392d.pdf



Sample Green Party Ballot

http://www2.chicagoelections.com/docs/ballots/392g.pdf


Sample Republican Ballot

http://www2.chicagoelections.com/docs/ballots/392r.pdf



Chicago Bar Association Recommendations for Judges:

http://www.chicagobar.org/public/judicial.asp



49th Ward Judicial Recommendations - CBA, contrasted with others, etc. in contested races

Alan Greiman

Steele or Walsh - (Even but Other Bar Assn - Decalogue Society favors Steele - Decalogue is a Jewish Society, org size varies over the years)

Dennis Burke

Reyes or MacCarthy (Other Bars Assns favor Terry MacCarthy; Jesse Reyes networks well, helps legal community @ CBA & ISBA, spent time in Government legal, and is already serving as a judge; arguable toss up)

Kirby

Lingo or Ryan (Other Bar Assns noticeably favor Lingo) personal knowledge helps in this race.

Sexton or Hyman (Other Bar Assns favor Hyman, Sexton may not be as extroverted, but worthy)

O'Neill or Powell (Chgo Council of Lawyers and Womens Bar favor Joan Powell over Madeline)




Recommendations From Other City, State, Ethnic, Social, and Race Related Bar Associations from which evaluations, above made:

http://www.voteforjudges.org/

Rogers Park Residents Taking on Non-Biodegradable Plastic for a Change!

How much spin can you pin until your neighbors get dizzy with political nausea? When non-biodegradable signs are posted on public parkways, then they are fair game as garbage. This mess comes to you as a public disservice pronouncement from the political departments of dirty tricks and scourge pilots. Political litter pigs purposely use the parkways, flowerbeds, and corners of our block, not the inner sanctum. How environmentally insensitive!

That is how you know it is not a neighbor, among others. If you know the difference, then it is okay to pick up the trash, because that is what it looks like to the casual observer. All of us know where exclusive private property begins. Parkways are easements, but still your property, not theirs. You control your flowerbeds. Their your corners and if you know that your neighbor won't do anything, then think about cleaning up. Eventually they should get the message.

Political hacks plug the grass on the parkways in an effort to confuse condo residents and townhome owners. They want us to believe that a co-owner posted it. They probably didn't! Furthermore, the condo association probably had to approve it, so express yourself. Go ahead, make your day remove it; no one really cares if it is your property too! If you like the candidate, then post it on your mid section, so the neighbors know its yours. Better yet, post it in your windows or all over your building. Make a statement on your building. Public space deserves some respect.

If we tolerate the plastic, then it will only get worse, just like grafitti. Just say no to hypocrisy. Our so-called environmental politicians spend thousands of dollars on non-biodegradable plastic campaign signs that fill our landfills. When they can't get us to voluntarily post their signs on our properties, some resort to encouraging third parties to get rid of the signs near polling places.

My philosophy is to educate voters, not to innudate them with the name game. An educated vote is what counts. Sometimes, it takes time to sort out between the Adamses, Ginderskes and the Gordons, but if you give it a chance, then your vote is more reassuring. Of course, if you really don't care, then you may care about the litter on your lawn.

Vote with intelligence! Make a difference. It is okay to change your mind. It is okay to disagree. Its okay to vote for some of the names on the signs. Just know what they stand for and their credibility in the community compared with others. Just do it.

Snow Blown this Winter, Among Other Things.

The snow did not keep me in. Rather than photograph every moment of the day like some narcissist, I went through the typical. Although there was quite a bit of football fever, I only caught the final score. There was a sense of fascination over the Patriot's loss. It was conceivable, but unexpected, so my yartzeit is lit. However, I never looked at it, since the paycheck was not mine. The amusement of watching a Superbowl is only as good as the attention given to the football season. Instead, I threatened to go to the beach this afternoon just to inhale the fresh frozen lakefront air for a moment.

This season, I was too busy trying to make a living, toying with the computer, cleaning the house, or doing the laundry. Yet, today, I was doing the Target tour in search of loose Earl Grey Tea, toilet paper, and detergent on three hours of sleep. I am working on a Powerpoint presentation.

I vowed that I would express the non-political, since my state of mind is rather cashed out on the election. I will vote, but others in the household won't. Politics often nauseates them, as well. Most of us are occasional hypocrites, so I suppose, 'what should we expect from our politicians?' However, I don't double dip. Frankly, it nauseates me, when I do the research, pull out some memories, and find out more than I expected. Politics is sometimes a mix of optimism and spin, depending upon who throws their hat in the ring and when.

I let loose while others apparently agree, remain silent, or rationalize. The disappointment is that we don't always appreciate why or how people do things, take a particular position, or act in a way that appears dubious. Without an explanation, it makes little sense. It is so easy to fixate that you simply fizzle from frustration. I mean, who are these people, anyway? Why do we let our politicians go teflon with their trespassing steel prongs? Why vote for a familiar names, when these candidates could be the functional equivalent of Hitler? I would rather not vote, but I go with my final gut position. do research, and let's leave it at that. Anita Alvarez is the only option for me.

I could have gone off on the Steans-Elder rant, but many in the area agree with me. Many in RP have expressed their support for Elder with mega-banners on their homes. I refuse to tow the 49th Ward Politburo's 'Stean push. In any event, politicians will be elected. Hopefully we will take the time to be heard at their offices on local ward issues. Maybe, they will take the time to not only listen, but confirm that they acted in some meaningful way.

In spite of cruising the Targets in Evanston and Niles, today, we have gone local. For those who remember Ames (Aames?), which turned into the flea market, we regret that it has taken the ward so long to finally encourage some decent merchants. Now, we have to find time to go or find them. We went to Buffalo Joes on Howard for the second time in the last decade. We ate-in the first time. If you like Buffalo Wings, then it is worth it, even with the blue light dangling a block away.

We are regulars at the Fishkeg and the last month was no exception. For those from the southwest, Fishkeg is the near equivalent of Hagens, but it is mostly fried and raw, not smoked based upon my recall. Perhaps, I have yet to check out Fishkeg's smoked selection. Fishkeg is open till 1 a.m. on Friday and midnight every other day. It is just off Ridge and Howard. Has anyone eaten at Burek's on the east side of Ridge?

For those who have avoided Dominicks at Gateway, it has been renovated in the last six months. In addition, Runge's Auto Repair has let a few tarps on their 'problem child cars' loose. The result is that a 1970-something Cadillac looks pathetic on the third floor at the Howard Terminal parking lot. Efforts to express concern at the security desk seem useless. Perhaps, a mass call-in to Irma at Standard Parking downtown to bug her about Runge's junkyard might make a difference. If I did not need to head downtown so early, I probably would stop by Runge's to see if it is theirs. The cars don't bite. There is an Alfa Romeo from Runges nearby, as well.

I think that the pigeons are too cold to roost at the parking lot. For those who don't know, the parking lot is loaded with video cameras, even in the stairwells. Just another evening trying to drop the political rhetoric one step below the front page.

More Suffredin Rants. You be the Judge Series. Future Nepotism? Double Dipping? Bloom for States Attorney?

I found this photo and could not resist. Is this Loyola University Law School posturing or just coincidence? Future nepotism at work? Cronyism? Or just networking? You be the judge!

Larry, Larry quite contrary how does this garden grow? From left to right: Thomas M. Suffredin ('05), Mary Anne 'Molly' Phelan ('05), and Brian Monico('04). Participants in the Loyola University Law School Alumni Golf Outing of 2007. Isn't that special? For those who appreciate this photo, these are the sons and daughters of a few prominent Chicago Law Dynasties with political connections. Perhaps, they are some of the few who can afford to take off from work to slice the greens, while Dad's associates do the dirty work on Saturday or Sunday mornings under threat of a pink slip. This is not where Anita Alvarez came from.

Again, simultaneously holding a private law job as a Shefsky and Froehlich Partner and a Cook County Commissioner has its perks. However, taxpayers foot the bill for Commissioners who are arguably full time employees, even if elected. Was lobbying, while representing ,what contributed to former 5th Ward Alderman Larry Bloom's convictions?

Remember, that unlucky Larry Bloom did time in 'Club Fed' when he served as both an Alderman and a Springfield lobbyist for a Chicago dumpsite. Unfortunately, Bloom's client was an Operation Silver Shovel FBI Mole. Larry Bloom was lobbying in Springfield, as well. However, the client was wearing a mic. Interestingly, Larry Bloom also ran for Cook County State's Attorney, while an Alderman.

Are there conflicts of interest when taxpayers offer a salary to someone who is also doing unrelated legal work as a sidebar to a paid elected position? Will Larry Suffredin continue to hold two salaries or more when he becomes Cook County States Attorney? Are there issues of integrity when paid public officials continue to serve two masters during the day? In my day, we called this 'double dipping!' I guess that on two salaries, it is easier to put your kid through law school and perhaps support expensive recreation, if any. How progressive!

Why does the ARDC or the media ignore 'double dipping' as a conflict of interest issue? If you work one job, then should a Commissioner be allowed to simultaneously hold other jobs. Is this in the public's best interests? As an attorney, should you know better? Do we need a law or ordinance to do the right thing? Is Lucky Larry a reformer or simply Joe Blow status quo?

Frankly, Alderman Allens and Brookins may fare no better. However, Brookins inability to pay rent means that, perhaps, it is time to concentrate on the Aldermanic tasks at hand. Maybe, its time to find another attorney to share your office space. It seems like Elzie Higginbotham may have covered the outstanding rent for Brookins, for now, so that Brookins can focus on his campaign. The issue of 'double dipping' by our politicians is not new, but should it be tolerated and ignored?

Okay, perhaps I'm mistaken about poor Brian and Thomas. Maybe, I need better time management skills, stop my ranting, and save up some money for greens fees, as well. So boys and girls, when is the next LUC Law School Alumni Golf Outing? Will the rest of the Alumni appear on the 2008 photo?

Suffredin: Litigator or Pontificator? Does the Federal Record Tell? Seven cases? Less?

Is Suffredin Bluffing about his recent litigation experience? Does he have a significant docket or does he Frolic at Froehlic in Springfield? A recent review of the Federal Record through the Pacer Search System confirms that the media does not do its homework. Suffredin claims that he is a litigator. Unfortunately, at least in the last eighteen years, the Federal Courts have kept track. These are the cases in which Larry Suffredin actually filed an appearance as an attorney or was simply a party to a lawsuit in Federal Court.

This means that Commissioner Suffredin seems less than candid about his experience with Federal litigation and jurisdictional issues. In fact, the person who researched did not even bother to check if Larry Suffredin was merely a plaintiff or a defendant. Much Environmental litigation, is covered under the Federal Code and Regulations. Does anyone remember the magnet wire criminal case? In a nutshell, the burden of proof and jurisdiction can waste a public attorneys time and your tax dollars! Witnesses, not just politicians, must come forward, actually show up and testify in court. When Strayhorn came down, so did the prosecution. Perhaps, the case was best handled by the Feds, not O'Malley!

This is the Suffredin Federal Court Record. If you don't believe it, then have a lawyer friend who practices in Federal Court do a Pacer search. Does Larry Suffredin understand environmental litigation, Federal Regulations, and jurisdiction. You be the judge.