Concerned Citizens of Chatham

Owe Chicago money? City could take tax refund under proposal: Is It Fair?

2012-02-14T21:59:00.001-06:00

One of the Blog's more straightforward members sent me a link to this article.

More than 100,000 Illinois residents and businesses with overdue Chicago parking tickets, red-light camera citations and judgments rendered by city hearing officers would have their debt siphoned from their state income tax refunds under a crackdown advanced by a City Council committee Tuesday.
Chicago could be in line for a windfall of $8 million to $20 million thanks to a new partnership with the state that will put a “brick” on the state refunds of anyone who owes the city money, according to Tina Consola, managing deputy of the city’s Department of Finance.
The tool already has been authorized by the Illinois General Assembly. Chicago is simply moving to take advantage of it to whittle down its mountain of debt.
The debts in question date back to 2005. In the case of parking and red-light tickets, motorists targeted have received and ignored several warning notices.

The judgments rendered by city hearing officers run the gamut from false burglar alarms and building code violations to citations issued by the city’s Department of Streets and Sanitation.
If the debt owed by an individual or business is larger than the state income tax refund, the claim would remain on the books for five years, giving the city an opportunity to take another bite each year until the debt is paid.
In every instance, the state would take $15 off the top as a collection fee. No debt is too small to trigger the collection efforts.
The Budget Committee approved the ordinance, but not before several aldermen urged the city to send out final warning notices alerting deadbeats to the new tool in the city’s arsenal. Consola said the city was exploring that possibility.

Read the entire article at http://www.suntimes.com/10637288-417/owe-chicago-money-city-could-take-tax-refund-under-proposal.html

Do you think its fair?

RIP Whitney Houston 1963-2012

2012-02-12T17:00:00.000-06:00

6th Ward Public Transportation Forum

2012-02-08T23:11:00.001-06:00

6th Ward Public Transportation Forum

Alderman Sawyer Response to Remap

2012-02-01T00:16:00.001-06:00

Alderman Sawyer Remap Letter

Externship With Federal Justice Sharon Coleman

2012-01-30T14:17:00.000-06:00

Federal Justice Sharon Coleman is accepting applications for 4 or

6-week summer externships for 2012, Applicants

should be a 1st or 2nd year law student with strong

wri ting skills, Include recent transcripts, cover le tter,

and at least one le tter of recommendation, Send all

inquiries to Anthony Swanagan, Senior Law Clerk,

Anthony_Swanagan@ilnd.uscourts.gov by February 28

Upcoming 6th Ward Community Organization Meetings

2012-01-29T23:59:00.000-06:00

Here is a partial listing of upcoming community meetings

West Chesterfield Community Association

SaturdayFebruary 4, 2012

10am

West Chesterfield Community Fieldhouse

9351 S Michigan

Issue: Remap

Park Manor Neighbors Community Council

Monday

February 6, 2012

6:30 to 8:30 pm

St. Columbanus( Glass House)

317 E. 71st

Issue: Remap and IDOT CREATE Project

Chatham Avalon Park Community Council

Monday

February 13, 2012

6:30 to 8:30 pm

Northern Trust Bank

7800 S. State Street

Topic: Community Issues

February 21, 2012

7:00 pm

Roseland Heights Community Association

Temple of Glory International

311 E. 95th Street

Chicago, IL 60619

Greater Chatham Alliance Community Organization

Saturday

February 18, 2012

11:00 am to 1:30 pm

St. James Lutheran Church

8001 S. Michigan

Topic: Community Issues

GCA Meeting: Alderman Michelle Harris and Anthony Beale Sold Me Out

2012-01-28T22:37:00.000-06:00

The Greater Chatham Alliance(GCA) meeting was held today at St. James Lutheran Church in Chatham. The crowd turnout was greater than expected and the meeting had to be moved from the basement to the Sanctuary. After going over organization business, Alderman Roderick Sawyer was given the floor to address two issues. The opening on a Methadone clinic and the recent ward remap.The Alderman confirmed that a Methadone dispensing center had opened in the Chatham Medical Building at 230 E. 79th Street. The crowd silence voiced their displeasure. The clinic was discovered as a result of residents visiting the center's other doctors and reckless behavior they had noticed going on near the center. The Alderman stated he wanted to have the representatives from GCA and the other community organizations visit and meet with the management of the center and discuss the issues. The Alderman explained that the center had been in the ward before but at another location.The main issue of the day and why most individuals came out was to hear what happened to the 6th ward as a result of the remap process. Alderman Sawyer stated that he initially supported the black caucus to keep as many African American ward in the City of Chicago. He also stated he did not want to lose any of his ward but understood that he would probably have to do so. After a series of meetings and public hearings a compromise was made. The 6th ward would end at 87th street and the entire communities of Chesterfield, West Chesterfield and Roseland Heights would go to the 9th ward under Alderman Anthony Beale ad Michelle Harris. After this agreement was made, Alderman Harris stated she changed the map because she did not want Richard Wooten, a former candidate for 6th ward Alderman and current candidate for 6th ward committeeman and 34th district state representative, in her ward. Alderman Sawyer stated that Alderman Beale stood by and supported Alderman Harris rogue move. Alderman Sawyer stated that even senior members of the city council could not understand the audacity of Alderman Harris and Beale. Alderman Sawyer had some heated words with Harris and Beale while the leader of the Black Caucus Alderman Howard Brookins stood by and did nothing but remap a small portion of Chatham into the 21st ward. His feeble attempt was designed to get his taxpayer supported bridge built. This bridge would alleviate the traffic congestion that will occur when Fellowship Missionary Baptist church builds their new church at 85th Vincennes along with the new Walmart.During the questioning Alderman Sawyer was grilled as to why did he think that his previous relationships with members of the black caucus would mean anything. He was also grilled as to what some characterized as a nonchalant attitude and not showing he was mad as hell. Others chastised him for not being more vocal at the public hearings. Then there were the Rodney King comments"can't we all just get along". The answer was NO by some who felt this was all concocted by Alderman Howard Brookins as payback for not backing his Walmart project. But, there were several surprising comments with one coming from Richard Wooten who chastised Alderman Sawyer and the other African American alderman for not communicating with constituents and not being more vocal on the remap process. Then Mr. Wooten stated that Alderman Harris and Beale changed the maps to avoid him. He stated a representative from one of their offices contacted him and stated they felt Alderman Sawyer was running from a battle with Mr. Wooten in 2015 by allowing West Chesterfield to be remapped in the 8th or 9th ward. Mr. Wooten characterized it as cowardliness by Alderman Beale/Harris for gerrymandering to avoid a fight and was disrespectful towards the residents of the City of Chicago. Lastly, former 21st Ward Alderman Niles Sherman, now a 6th ward resident, chastised the community for not being more vocal. He stated that this was in the works for years to dismantle strong African American wards. He clearly stated that if the audience was not up to a dog fight then it was no reason to continue to discuss the remap issue. He made it plain that the community needed to vote in the March primary and bring their A game because they were going to play with the big boys in a remap challenge. He also commented on Alderman Howard Brookins Jr leadership of the Black Caucus. " A leader is born not made". So what will the community do? Can the factions all come together and agree to fight the remap? Will Alderman Michelle Harris continue to be a coward and avoid Alderman Sawyer and the residents of Chatham? Will Alderman Beale be around in 2015? He had a great week with his daughter accepting a scholarship she didn't deserve and his wife coming under investigation by the Secretary of State.

Is the New Whitney Young Library Project Dead

2012-01-27T12:49:00.000-06:00

Now that the mayor has decided to reopen libraries on Mondays and force out Commissioner Mary Dempsey. Where does this leave the Whitney Young Library Project? The project has been delayed because of EPA issues. A grant from the EPA was suppose to be forthcomung but will it make a difference? Is there a will to make this project happen?I talked about this project on several different occassions

Our new mayor Rahm Emmanuel has decided that the Chicago Public Library is expendable , he is proposing closing some libraries and reducing the hours they are open. In 2008 , the City of Chicago Council approved the overhaul of the Whitney Young Library, at 79th King Drive, that served the Chatham, Park Manor, Avalon Park, Chesterfield and West Chatham communities. The Whitney Young Library was a library surrounded by controversy from day one. The community led by members of the Chatham Avalon Community Council(CAPCC) picketed the construction site because of a lack of African American constuction workers present on the site and later because the the building was so shabbily built it needed major repairs that the Chicago Public Library refused to do.Since the approval of the remodeling of Whitney Young library, the Chicago Public Library has opened up new branches in Avalon Park, Greater Grand Crossing and Park Manor communities. The Whitney Young Library stood as an unfunded plan because the community or rather some residents felt the initial proposed library was woefully insufficient. In April 2010, I wrote the following post for the Sixth Ward Blog The post is here http://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=4670547542156136826#editor/target=post;postID=1709762787405151017
The debate about the Whitney Young library seems to continue for no reason except that some individuals in this community have bruised egos.The Chicago Public library commissioner Mary Dempsey has reiterated her position that the Whitney Young Library will be a single story building with a two story facade that will be the same square footage as the two story building. She has stated that based on the current economy that she does not have the resources to staff a two floor building. She has pointed to the Beverly, Mount Greenwood, and West Pullman branches are all built on this model and are functioning well for those communities.It was reported on the CAPCC blog(unverified) that members of CAPCC are still insisting that the CPL build a two story building only because the Humbolt Park branch is two story and their ad hoc committee decided that the Whitney Young branch should be based on that model.The problem with the CAPCC thought process is that first its selfish and unsubstantiated by any meaningful and documented facts. The facts are as follows:There is no substantiated facts that circulation has increased to justify a two story facilityThe CPL did not commission CAPCC to solicit community responseThe Chatham community has six library facilities within a 5 mile radius to frequentAuburn Park - 76Th RacineAvalon Park - 81st Stony IslandWoodson Regional - 95th HalstedGrand Crossing- 73rd South Chicago (Fall 2010)Kennedy King College- 64th halsted (no book checkout)Chicago State University - 95th King (no book checkout)These are the facts as well as several former CPL employees who are also Chatham residents have voiced their disapproval because of the incompetence of the current staff and safety issues.Based on the above, CAPCC needs to get out of the way and let the library process go forward so we can get a building sooner than later. I think we need to focus on a more immediate problem and figure out why with the number of libraries that serve our community why do we have failing elementary and high schools.What do you think?

Fast forward to October 2010, the Whitney Young Library is still in limbo. In May of 2010, it was found that the additional land purchased for the library needed environmental remediation and there had been no monies allotted for this project. The Public Building Commission applied for and was granted funds to complete the project by the US EPA. As of last week, commissioner Mary Dempsey reported to the city council that they have not received the funds from the EPA for the project. Also, at a recent CAPCC meeting the same argument about the building came up. The Wicker Park/Bucktown branch (http://www.pbcchicago.com/content/projects/project_detail.asp?pID=CPL-42). The facts are the new proposal is a 16,500 square feet, 1.5 story building. This is the same model that is being used in Bridgeport and one other community. All the other issues brought up in April 2010 are the same. So my question is if we get a new library, does form overrule functionality? But the big question is did we blow the opportunity with unnecessary conflicts?

The Walmart Era Has Begun on the Southside

2012-01-26T15:09:00.000-06:00

It's official,the Walmart era has begun. The Walmart Express store opened approximately 6 months ago, in West Chatham,with a lot of fanfare that included a visit from Mayor Rahm Emanuel. Yesterday the Walmart Superstore opened with the same fanfare. I wasn't there for the rah rah speeches but went to see what was the hoopla all about. I was greeted by a greeter and I could find an employee everywhere I looked. It was estimated that approximately 150-200 jobs mostly part-time were created with the opening. I walked through the store and its setup like the nearby Target with a pharmacy. They packed a lot of items into the store and the aisle are packed with products. I compared prices on a couple of items and a price war is in effect as the prices on most items were comparable to the nearby Jewel's and Aldi's. I spoke with a couple of customers who stated that they would look at the store as an alternative to shopping at the other grocery stores. Also, they welcomed the store as they feel it would offer some economic benefit. They were not impressed with the pricing. Lastly, what was disappointing was the absence of local vendors products on the shelf. Supervalu(Jewel's and Save A Lot), Kroger(Food 4 less) and Safeway(Dominick's) all have programs that offer local vendors the opportunity to have their products on the shelves of stores. Unfortunately, Alderman Brookins forgot small businesses also hire. The Chatham Business Association totally dropped the ball as the day before they hosted a meeting with City of Chicago Mayor Rahm Emmanuel about economic development. It will be interesting to see what happens after all the buyers, product managers, and other Walmart personnel leave and the employees have to run the store. The Walmart Express has failed to live up to the expectations placed on it. Some of the expectations are unfair as it is compared to the store in the Presidential Towers apartment complex. That store replaced an independent market that was already present. Also, questions remain as are the employees from the 21st, 6th, 8th ward? Will Alderman Brookins continue to push CDOT and IDOT to build a taxpayer financed bridge over the Dan Ryan expressway to direct the traffic out of his community? Will the white residents of Evergreen Park and Beverly resume shopping at the 95th Western Walmart store now that African Americans have another store to shop. Will the Beverly residents now back down and let the Meijer's open on 91st Western? Let's see what happens in 6 months.

The New 6/8/9th Ward

2012-01-22T22:22:00.000-06:00

Well its over for now. The Black Caucus led by Alderman Howard Brookins finally bent down and kissed the ring and crowned the new king. Move over King Richard and make room for King Rahm. Only two African American Alderman had the guts to stand up and say NO. The rest gave in like cowards and basically sealed their fate. This map that was thown down their throats and not presented to the public sealed the demise of the Black Caucus and most of their pathetic members. The members need to make sure they have their continuing education requirements in order and pay up all their fees because most will have to go back into private practice as attorneys and others will hit the unemployment line like former Cook County Commissioner Todd Stroger.Yes the 6th ward and Chatham were split up, it wasn't expected but came to no surprise. It's Chicago politics and when you start crowning mini kings who have egos the size of the State of Illinois you can expect petty politics and its clearly what the motive was when they cut up the sixth ward. We have the 6/8/9th ward because all these areas are interconected with families, business and civic interest. Unfortunately, now to get anything done that will benefit the residents we will have to deal with three politician versus one. To the demise of some of my neighbors, the one they will have to deal with is a genius. Alderman Anthony Beale, a smart gentleman who is only in office as the result of riding the coat tails of Jesse Jackson Jr. and Rev. James Meeks. Mr Beale is a friend of education and economic development. Mr. Beale has supported the academically failing high school Corliss and he also supported the academically and financially failing elementary school of his mentor James Meeks. He fought tooth and nail against the opening of Kwame Nkrumah academy, the best performing elementary school in his ward and was indifferent about Gwendolyn Brooks College Prep, a selective enrollment high school. His position on economic development is just as stellar. He let his mentor Meeks close down stores in Roseland they deemed "problems" but have yet reopened anything leaving vacant storefronts. Also, he stalled developers on a project to redevelop 115th Michigan after they tore down the mini mall standing there. He stalled to allow his mentor to attempt to bully his way into the development. Now years later you have several acres of weeded lots.So what will he do with strong community organizations such as Chesterfield Community Council, West Chesterfield Community Association and Roseland Heights Community Associations who have all vowed to make his life miserable. What will he do with top performing elementary schools Mcdade Classical, Burnside Scholastic, and Harlan High Schools. What will he do to support up and coming Chicago State University? On economic development will he hinder the Imani Village project like he did Kwame Nkrumah because his mentor is not involved?Now on to Alderman Michelle Harris, who got elected because the residents of the 8th ward believed she would lead like her late aunt Lorraine Dixon. Boy were they mislead. No economic development to speak of. A major area of land that has been vacant for years and prime for redevelopment has and continues to stay vacant. All of the schools in her ward are under performers. So why would she elect to pick up several residential blocks in Chatham? She and her cohorts have always made negative comments toward Chatham residents and now she has to represent some. So this is the payback that residents of the 6th ward have to deal with because we would not bend down and praise the new Messiah Walmart and their sponsor and calling out African American Alderman who took gambling lobbyist money. I think the comment made at The Sixth Ward Blog sums up how residents feel:

Can you imagine that black aldermen would have coveted their own self interests to the point of destroying one of the bedrocks of black, middle class communities in the city of Chicago and think they, incredibly, won't suffer the consequences? It's HIT LIST time folks!Do you really believe, Alderman Beale, that the new communities that are now shoved in your ward––Chesterfield, West Chesterfield and Roseland Heights–– are going to VOTE FOR YOU when the time comes? Currently, your entire ward doesn't vote with the intensity of these three communities put together.Do you think Alderman Brookins we can't come across the Dan Ryan into your ward and help anybody–-including BOZO THE CLOWN–-run against you? Don't even think about the dog catcher job! That's how bad we are going to make your life. Sixth ward citizens are going to be gunning for YOU! We are never going to FORGET THIS!The Black Caucus may have taken a bite out of us, but we will ferret out the masterminds–-of which Fredrenna Lyle cavorted with because of her aldermanic loss––and as they say--payback is a b-----! People, just pick up the CHICAGO MAGAZINE, JANUARY 2012 ISSUE and see which aldermen have gang ties.See how low they all have descended. If the FEDS every get involved, don't feel sorry for any of them!We are going to ferret out anyone who is part of the lead aldermen who ripped us apart and go after you like a grizzly bear ––who has been sleeping all winter––that's hungry––and never had sex and is looking for a mate. Because yes, most of us in the 6th Ward weren't paying attention! Just look at the 43rd Ward and see how those rich, white folks in Lincoln Park reacted when they proposed cutting them up and dropping them into three wards as of Monday of this week. Did they take it! Hell NO! 600 hundred of them showed up to protest!You can be sure that every person on the Northside got on the phone and blew up Emanuel's digits until they got his attention. They reminded him that they have a lot of rich attorneys who live in Lincoln Park who would have tied the City of Chicago in court FOREVER! And boy, did our mayor make the council back away from the 43rd Ward like a rattler shaking it's tail at a bobcat!And don't think that Rahm Emanuel actually cares about preseving the black, middle class either. Cause if he did, he certainly didn't demonstrate it this time. So stop thinking he's President Obama cuz he ain't! Make him WORK for your vote the next time––like a Hebrew slave!So black folks in the 6th Ward–– take note when we discover who were the MASTERMINDS who decided to put us uppity, middle class black folks in our place––let's go after them like PIT BULLS! Like folks who have lost our MINDS!They are really scared of us! Case in point: it seems that Alderman Beale made sure that Richard Wooten who lives in Chesterfield and should now be a part of the 9th Ward according to their new map... well, his home and one other block are still going to remain in the 6th Ward. Beale feared this brother would go after him and have a real shot at his job in future elections! Pitiful! Weak!But hey, I suspect a deal was cut with the CEO of Chesterfield's Community Group who never once rallied his community to come out and question the remap. So Alderman Beale, maybe he will be your competition for your seat––unless you and Brookins have already cut him a deal for whatever!It's time to WAKE UP, folks! These professional, political incumbents and their lackeys are only concerned about their self-preservation, pensions and power. They ain't thinking about what it took to try to keep you and your family afloat to aspire and remain part of the black, middle class. And if anyone is taking them to court, you need to come out and HELP that legal group! You, my sixth ward neighbors, need to pay attention! You need to stop feeling you owe them your allegiance because they are BLACK! Because frankly speaking, all these black politicians think they owe you is a turkey dinner at Thanksgiving and a few block party permits. It's time to get ANGRY and do something about it! We may have lost this battle but the war is hardly over!

So welcome Alderman Harris and Alderman Beale. Were they geniuses or cowards?

Alderman Sawyer Votes No on Remap

2012-01-19T15:10:00.000-06:00

Alderman Sawyers Response to City Council Vote on Remap

Will a Remap Compromise Make Anyone Happy: Not in the 6th Ward

2012-01-17T14:17:00.000-06:00

Black Caucus Map, Latino Caucus Map, Taxpayer Map. How bout a Mickey Mouse map because that's what it all starting to sound like.The facts are plain and simple but the alderman cannot seem to find a way to come to a agreement that will make the citizens of Chicago happy and withstand legal challenges for those who will be unhappy with the results.Chatham and the 6th ward is approximately 95% African American and through years of gerrymandering the boundaries have been moved to include portions of Greater Grand Crossing also known as East Englewood. For reasons unknown, the members of the black caucus presented a map that again moved the boundaries of the ward but totally redefine the ward. The new boundaries have incensed the residents of the ward as it redefines the 6th ward as the ward that represents Englewood and its not sitting well will residents east of the Dan Ryan expressway. Residents of the 6th ward both east and west of the Dan Ryan have made their presence and displeasure known at remapping hearings. One resident took to social media to let their displeasure be known. The resident left their comment at The Sixth Ward Blog (not associated with the alderman's office)

Irate in the 6th Ward!Jan 13, 2012 04:57 PMMaybe I'm missing something here, but how does Alderman Sawyer plan to vote? Last I looked, it was the citizens of the 6th Ward who got him elected. I don't recall a run from the incumbent Alderman in the Black Caucus to endorse and support his candidacy in his run-off with Lyle.If Alderman Sawyer plans to vote to support the Black Caucus map at the expense of the voters who got him elected in the 6th Ward, then I say he should be a ONE TERM ALDERMAN!Anyone who would support that incompetent, ego tripping, imperialistacting, brainy smurf, Alderman Brookins, should go by the wayside. Thisnew map would so hideously impact Chatham voters by making our home and automobile insurance go up because we would not have enough of the middle class communities in the ward any longer. It would make Chatham, given the other blights we are now fighting, unattractive beyond compare in our efforts to get younger families to move here.This is an aging ward, people, with most people over 55 years of age living in the ward.As for Brookins, I hope someone will start the drive to assist voters in his ward for PAYBACK! The kind of PAYBACK SUPPORT to make sure he loses his office. Oh, so you Alderman Brookins plan to give 9th Ward Alderman Beale part of the 6th Ward to be fair. As well as a piece to Brookins' ward too! This is the kind of slick move that will eventually cost Brookins any ambitions he has for a bigger office in the future. If 6th Ward voters are paying attention, they should know Brookins has always taken issue with the strength and independence of the 6th ward voter. He has never liked that we question his motives across the DanRyan if they don't seem to be firmly fitting with the community.I am hoping none of us forget this if his recommended map gets approved! I'm hoping black voters in the old 6th Ward, as we are splintered via this new map, remember to dog him the rest of his career. This has nothing to do with being equitable as much as it has to do with helping incompetents like Beale stay in office. Though ultimately, he will probably lose anyway. And is it true that Beale is so scared of folks in our ward that he hasasked that the blocks Richard Wooten live on stay in the 6th Ward so he won't be challenged in the next aldermanic election he runs in?All in all, I will be sicken if Sawyer sucks up to the Black Caucus and bends over to kiss Brookins' ring. If he does, heed this warning, Alderman Sawyer–– Find another office to run for because the rest of us remaining in the 6th Ward will be gunning for YOU! And rightly so!P.S. It's time for black voters to stop licking the boots of the professional, black career alderman. It's time for us to vote for only 25 alderman and see how the whole political landscape shakes up! These people are in it only for their own benefit. And ultimately, that's why black communities have been on the demise. This is not a slick white boy move for 25 alderman, as much as it is a new day move that removes the blinders from the eyes of black voters who are still wanting to believe that the Black Caucus is really concerned about our lives.It's a New Year, let's seek a New Beginning!

The most recent news states a compromise map has been drawn up. This map is suppose to make the alderman happy but will it make residents happy? I don't think any map at this point will make 6th ward residents happy.

Moratoriums: Do they work and do we need them

2012-01-15T13:48:00.000-06:00

I recently attended a local community meeting and they asked a new businnes owner make some remaks.I was happy to hear that we have new businesses come to the community. The he describe his business and thats when the sarcastic side of me came out. WTF? Another beauty salon., here we go again. In the 6th ward and more specifically Chatham a moratorium was put in place on our major streets (75th,79th,83rd, and 87th). In the late 90's, there was a prolifitration of hair salons and barber shops opening on these streets.There were reports that some of these shops were being used as fronts for drug dealers to launder money as at that time these businesses were primarily cash businesses. Also, because of ambiguity in the law, whereas someone with a felony conviction cannot obtain a state issues cosmetology license, they can own a hair salon.Why did the sarcastic side of me come out? Hypocrisy plain and simple. Under the former aldermandic administration a business that required a zoning variance had to obtain a letter from the local community organization before the alderman would consider signing off on the variance. Under the current administration, the alderman reviews the proposal before they are sent to the local community organization.My understanding of NO is NO means NO. So when you say no more hair salons it doesn't make a differece who your parents are, who you are friends with, what organazation you make a donation of time or money to or how much money you claim you are going to place in the business. Unfortunately, it seems that if an individual does the above they can get an exception. So after seeing this happen several times, I now have to ask what's the point?In other parts of the city they have moratoriums on liquor sales, outdoor cafes and even the opening of religious facilities. In some of these communities some have stated that these moratoriums have had a negative impact on the community resulting in empty storefronts along major business strips. So should there be a city wide guideline or should it be left up to community interpretation?

Please attend the public ward remap hearing tomorrow

2012-01-11T20:41:00.000-06:00

Please attend the public ward remap hearing tomorrow:
Thursday January 12th
6:00pm - 9:00pm
Progressive Baptist Church
3658 S. Wentworth Ave

Make your voice be heard, bring a neighbor, and let the City Council know we want to keep the communities of the 6th Ward intact.

Together, we can!
Alderman Roderick T. Sawyer

Is it Time to Privatize the Chicago Public Library System

2012-01-08T16:07:00.002-06:00

Yes I said it. I know that privatization is a bad word but the recent library cuts puts the subject on the table. We are fortunate in this community to have three public libraries within a five mile radius. The libraries being Whitney Young, Greater Grand Crossing/Gary Comer, and Avalon. The Greater Grand Crossing and Avalon branches are both less than two years old. The Whitney Young branch would have been new but the construction process has been bogged down with EPA problems and community dissatisfaction with the model presented. The branch libraries in our community are used for more than book repositories but as community information centers and in the case of Whitney Young a baby sitting service. The two newer branches have attempted to bring programs and resources to the community but because of the hours reductions the attendance at these events is woefully low. Most residents would have to take time off work to attend as the libraries close as most are getting off work. The circulation numbers at all three branches are low because of a lack of popular materials and the lack of technology send patrons to the regional, colleges or main library. Lastly, which is the most disappointing is the partnership the Chicago Public Schools and Chicago Public Library is basically non-existent in our community.

So why not look at privatizing the library system? It would help the system make good on the promise, of building stand alone branches, it made to a number of communities. Also, they could restore extended hours to those facilities that justify the need and bring in modern technology (i.e computers, e-readers, etc). When we look at most college bookstores in our city. most carry as many books as our branch libraries. Would it be a strech for them to start a new division to run libraries? Also, creating TIF districts for libraries?

So do we continue to wait on politicians to make this decision and give the contract to politically connected, incompetent organizations(remember the parking meters?) or should residents step up and decide the fate of their branch libraries?

Public Hearings on Ward Remapping

2012-01-08T01:13:00.000-06:00

The City Council Committee on Committees,Rules and Ethics will hold

Public Hearings on City of Chicago Ward Remapping

Wednesday

January 11, 2012

Depaul University

Cortelyou Commons

2324 N. Freemont Street

Chicago, Illinois

Thursday

January 12, 2012

6:00 pm

Progressive Baptist Church

3658 S. Wentworth,

Chicago, Illinois

Alderman Sawyer's Position on Library Hours Reduction

2012-01-06T16:38:00.001-06:00

Alderman Sawyer Concerned by New Library Hours

Will We See The Return of Chatham-Avalon Park?

2012-01-04T14:05:00.000-06:00

Now that its been over 30 days and the city council still has no agreement on redistricting. The proposed reduction of the council from 50 to 25 members is gaining support. So if that would happen where would it leave Chatham and the 6th ward? The most logical choice would be to merge the 6th and 8th wards and basically recreate the "old 8th ward'. I know for most this doesn't make sense but up until the late 1950's, the 8th ward included most of the current 6th ward.The community was referred to Chatham-Avalon Park and even brought on the name of the oldest community based organization Chatham Avalon Park Community Council. The communities broke off and became separate and distinct organizations when the communities were separated into the 6th and 8th wards. The community organization separated even though the name still exist when the Avalon Park members decided to go with a University of Chicago led organizer attempting to create a southside based super organization that would rival Operation Breadbasket now known as PUSH. The attempt fell and the Avalon Park community was left without a community organization.There are those who are seeking to reunite the communities as both current Alderman supported SSA 51 and are working to revitalize the 79th Street and Cottage Grove corridor. The sixth ward contains a network of block clubs and community organizations such as Chatham Avalon Park Community Council, Park Manor Neighbors, Greater Chatham Alliance and Chesterfield Community Council while the 8th ward has block clubs with no predominate community organization, a bunch of internet trolls pretending to be community activist and a bunch of drive by community activist.If this would come to pass who would you want to represent you?

2012-The Rise of Chatham

2011-12-30T12:42:00.000-06:00

It is no secret that 2010 and 2011 were two of the worst years the residents of the Chatham community have seen. What could go wrong did go wrong. The community lost Officer Thomas Wortham IV, Michael Bailey and Firefighter Corey Ankum. We saw the closing of two Chicago landmark restaurants, Izola's and Army & Lou's. Also, a wave of senseless crime and violence that included the attempted robbing of an 85 year old man who happened to be a retired police officerThrough all of that 2011 taiught the community some hard lessons but also . Standing back and waiting on the police and others to solve our community's problems will not work. So the community has slowly raised their voices and demanded change. The change started with the election of Roderick T. Sawyer as Alderman of the 6th ward. During the election another voice emerged, the voice of social media . Social media influenced the election and has influenced the outcome of several other issues. Those issues being;

The removal of gaudy oversized signs at 71st,75th,87th,and 95th
The removal of the 5th grade art project looking newstand at 71st and 83rd
The discontinuance of the $.99 fried chicken special
The closing down of the "flop" house at 95th Michigan
The owners of EZ Pawn understanding Chatham residents are not EZ.

Although we had setbacks we also saw the emergence of the next generations of leaders. In a time when pundits are stating the African American community lacks leaders, we are seeing and electing the next generation. Starting with the following:

Brian Sleet- Chief of Staff 6th ward
Kari Steele- Candidate, Commissioner of the Metropolitan Water Reclamation District
Jahmal Cole- Community Activist
Richard Wooten-Candidate, Representative for the 34th District State Representative seat
Sondra Wortham- Candidate, Representative for the 34th District State Representative seat
Elgie Sims-Candidate, Representative for the 34th District State Representative seat
Paul Gregoire-Candidate, Representative for the 34th District State Representative seat
Future- Conscience Rapper/Entertainer

We saw the opening of the Thomas Wortham IV Playlot and remodeling of the proposed Ben Wilson basketball courts at Cole Park and look forward to the remodeling of Brown Memorial Park. The reemergence of cooperation between commuity organizations, be it Park Manor Neighbirs, Greater Chatham Alliance, Chatham Avalon Park Community Council, Chesterfield Community Council and others. Lastly, while several restaurants who make up the Pan African cuisine experience have closed, we saw the much anticipated opening of Garrett Popcorn Shop on 87th. Marking a break from tradition for this company, this is their only stand alone location and one week after opening the line is still running out of the door. Also, there are plans to reopen the Chatham Pancake house. In 2012 we will still have the challenges of dealing with crime, economic development and education. We will have to elect several new representatives and deal with the ward remap. Through all of this we will see a new stronger community, a community that has gotten sick and tired of being sick and tired. A community that will put politicians on notice that you cannot overlook our community and expect to get the vote and the reemergence of a independent voice even when it isn't popular. So those "so called community leaders" from other areas of the southside who have taken our dollars for granted and in one case stated we are not welcome, take notice that you will miss these dollars going forward as Chatham rebuilds.Thanks to all those who read this blog and comment whether you agree or disagree. The important thing is that we start the discussion and as we move forward we encourage others to join the conversation.

Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays to all

2011-12-24T16:00:00.000-06:00

Have a safe and Merry Christmas

The Opening of Garrett Popcorn Shops Chatham Store

2011-12-22T16:43:00.000-06:00

This was the scene at the opening of Garrett Popcorn Shops Chatham store. Everyone wanted the free Chicago Mix popcorn today. Garrett hired local and used local bank Seaway for the construction financing of the facility. A Win-Win for Chatham.

We Salute You Corey Ankum- A Chatham Hero

2011-12-22T00:44:00.000-06:00

One year ago today a tragic fire occurred on the southside of Chicago. While fighting the fire two fireman Edward Stringer ad Corey Ankum had the roof of the building collapse on them. Both fireman lost their lives in this fire. Corey Ankum was a Chatham resident and we salute our fallen hero ad thank all the firefighters who work hard everyday to save lives.

Garrett Popcorn Opens Chatham Store

2011-12-19T11:08:00.000-06:00

For Immediate Release Garrett Popcorn Shops®: A Chicago Tradition Since 1949 Opens its First Stand-Alone Shop at 87th Street and Cottage Grove CHICAGO (December 2011)— Garrett Popcorn announces with excitement it will open its first stand-alone Shop located at 737 E. 87th Street and Cottage Grove in the Chatham neighborhood on Thursday, December 22 at 11 a.m. To celebrate this historic occasion Garrett will offer loyal fans complimentary treat-size bags of the famous Chicago Mix popcorn from 11 a.m. when the doors open until 1 p.m. The lucky first customer will receive a special Garrett gift. To all customers who make a purchase, Garrett will also give their Signature Holiday Tin Ornament all day while supplies last. Beginning at 4 p.m. until closing customers can enjoy samples of the Garrett CaramelCrisp® Apple Cider that is being sold to benefit The Boys and Girls Club. Also, fans on Facebook will be rewarded with an opening day special not available to the general public. “So many Garrett consumers have shared in our excitement about our new Chatham home. We wanted to express our appreciation and recognize these loyal and committed Garrett fans with some opening cheer,” says Melissa Mikolajczak, Executive Vice President of Marketing for Garrett Popcorn Shops®. An enthusiastic on-line fan shared the following, “This is within walking distance. I love Garrett’s Chicago mix! Finally something exciting to eat in Chatham!” "I'm excited to welcome Garrett Popcorn to Chatham just in time for the holiday season. Investments like this, by major brands, reinforce the viability of Chatham and the South side as a whole as a place where you can do business and be very successful," says Alderman Roderick T. Sawyer, 6th Ward Chicago. "I am convinced that this location will do very well in Chatham. There has been a great amount of excitement about this store's arrival ever since it was first announced. I have told Garrett executives that I fully expect this to be one of the best performing stores very quickly." The new free-standing Shop at 87th will provide the same delicious Garrett Popcorn everyone loves in a stylish, yet familiar setting. It will feature a colorful mural painted by Chicago native Rahmaan Statik, entitled Global Intellect. The mural commissioned by Garrett captures the spirit of the Chatham community and the important role of education. “We are especially excited, in this economy, to support the growth of the Chatham community,” says Melissa Mikolajczak, Executive Vice President of Marketing for Garrett Popcorn Shops®. 87th Street hours are 11 a.m. – 7 p.m. Monday - Sunday;December 24: Open 11 a.m. – 4 p.m.December 25: Closed for the HolidayDecember 31: Open 11 a.m. – 5 p.m.January 1: Closed for the Holiday The official grand opening celebration is planned for early February. At that time, community leaders and neighbors will gather for a ribbon-cutting ceremony and Garrett will announce a special community partnership with Chicago Public Schools. About Garrett Popcorn Shops Garrett Popcorn Shops®, a Chicago tradition for more than 60 years, handcrafts its gourmet popcorn using only the highest quality ingredients. Every batch is handmade daily in old-fashioned copper kettles. It begins with a privately grown blend of hot-air popped kernels that are then mixed into a secret, family recipe passed down through three generations. Since its very first days in Chicago, Garrett Popcorn Shops attracts lines of historic proportions outside of all its Shops. Garrett Popcorn Shops offers these signature flavors: CaramelCrisp® (which can be selected with almonds, pecans or cashews), CheeseCorn™, Buttery, Plain and the famous The Chicago Mix - a blend of savory CheeseCorn™ and rich, sweet CaramelCrisp®. Vocal fans include Halle Berry, Bill Cosby, Neil Patrick Harris, Salma Hayek, Jane Lynch, Sherri Shepherd and countless others. In Chicago, Garrett Shops are located at 625 North Michigan Ave., Navy Pier food court, Merchandise Mart (2nd floor), 26 West Randolph St., 4 East Madison St., 27 West Jackson Blvd., 737 E. 87th Street; two at O’Hare International Airport, in Terminals 1 and 3, and in the Northwestern Station/Ogilvie Transportation Center at 500 West Madison St. Garrett also brings a taste of Chicago to its Shops in New York City (at Penn Plaza between 7th & 8th), Dubai, Singapore, Hong Kong, and Malaysia. For more information and to share Garrett around the country visit www.GarrettPopcorn.com. Join other Garrett fans on Twitter @GarrettPopcorn and on Facebook. ### Media Contact: Molise PRMichelle Molise, (313) 549-3137 cell, Mmolise@MolisePR.com (312) 577-6985 office

Is There Anything Wrong With Politicians Meeting With Alleged Gang Leaders

2011-12-17T17:39:00.002-06:00

A recent Chicago magazine article http://www.chicagomag.com/Chicago-Magazine/January-2012/Gangs-and-Politicians-An-Unholy-Alliance/ speaks of an alleged meeting between several City of Chicago Alderman, Aldermandic candidates and other politicians with alleged gang leaders. Here is an excerpt of the article

At some of the meetings, the politicians arrived with campaign materials and occasionally with aides. The sessions were organized much like corporate-style job fairs. The gang representatives conducted hourlong interviews, one after the other, talking to as many as five candidates in a single evening. Like supplicants, the politicians came into the room alone and sat before the gang representatives, who sat behind a long table. “One candidate said, ‘I feel like I’m in the hot seat,’” recalls Baskin. “And they were.”
The former chieftains, several of them ex-convicts, represented some of the most notorious gangs on the South and West Sides, including the Vice Lords, Gangster Disciples, Black Disciples, Cobras, Black P Stones, and Black Gangsters. Before the election, the gangs agreed to set aside decades-old rivalries and bloody vendettas to operate as a unified political force, which they called Black United Voters of Chicago. “They realized that if they came together, they could get the politicians to come to them,” explains Baskin.
The gang representatives were interested in electing aldermen sympathetic to their interests and those of their impoverished wards. As for the politicians, says Baskin, their interests essentially boiled down to getting elected or reelected. “All of [the political hopefuls] were aware of who they were meeting with,” he says. “They didn’t care. All they wanted to do was get the support.”
Baskin declined to name names, but Chicago has learned, through other sources at the meetings, the identities of some of the participants. They include: Aldermen Howard Brookins Jr. (21st Ward), Walter Burnett Jr. (27th), Willie Cochran (20th), and Freddrenna Lyle (6th). Alderman Pat Dowell (3rd) attended a meeting; upon realizing that the participants had close gang ties, she objected but stayed. Also attending were candidates who would go on to win their races, including Michael Chandler (24th) and Roderick Sawyer (6th). Darcel Beavers, the former 7th Ward alderman who would wind up losing her race, and Patricia Horton, a commissioner with the Metropolitan Water Reclamation District who lost her bid for city clerk, also met with the group.
Chandler, Brookins, and Burnett told Chicago they did not attend such a meeting. Sawyer and Horton did not return several calls seeking comment. A spokesman for Dowell confirmed that she attended the meeting after she objected. Beavers, Cochran, and Lyle, who was recently appointed as a Cook County judge, said they attended but were not told beforehand that former gang chiefs would be there, nor that the purpose involved gang-backed political support. “It, basically, was no different than sitting in front of any other panel that asks you questions relative to constituent issues,” said Cochran.

Is this new news? Is there anything wrong with these meetings? Can any good come out of these meetings?

Chesterfield Community Council Toy Drive

2011-12-16T01:50:00.002-06:00

Chesterfield Community Council (CCC) is sponsoring a Toy Drive for needy children in the

pediatric wards at Provident, Trinity & St. Bernard Hospitals. Please bring a (new) unwrapped

toy(s) or gifts on

Tuesday,

Dec. 20

Tuley Park

501 E 90th Pl (90th King Drive)

For more information http://www.chesterfieldcommunitycouncil.org/

Ready to Teach Program

2011-12-12T23:28:00.001-06:00

HOWARD UNIVERSITY Ready to Teach program (RtT) is designed for those who have
previously earned a bachelor’s degree and seek to make a career transition into the teaching profession,
Prepares qualifi ed candidates to teach for high needs schools in Chicago, Clayton County, GA, Houston, TX,
Prince George’s County, MD, and Washington, D.C.,
Informa tion, Call Deborah Ma tthews, 773-742-1533,202-806-6502 or
email HowardReadytoTeach@gmail.com, or visit www.readytoteach.org

Are Halfway Houses Welcome in Chatham

2011-12-12T22:46:00.000-06:00

This past weekend Halfway Houses became a major topic of conversation as an article appeared in the Sun Times http://www.suntimes.com/9188667-417/rape-victim-what-happened-was-completely-preventable.html and Cook County Board President Toni Preckwinkle stated she would like to see more halfway houses as a lower cost alternative to incarceration of non violent offenders. She stated these facilities would be in "welcoming" communities. A conversation on Everyblock questions who are the welcoming communities an who will be the welcome committee.The halfway house and transitional housing issue comes up every time the foreclosed housing inventory starts to rise. While the larger transitional housing providers http://www.sober.com/directory/Halfway+Houses/Illinois/Chicago-page1.html such as the Salvation Army, operate well run facilities and within the law some of the smaller individual and not for profit run facilities have caused problems in communities such as South Shore and Park Manor. Several years ago the Park Manor community got into a public debate over the radio with a transitional drug rehab house operator who had illegally converted a single family home into a multifamily dwelling. South Shore residents were upset when they found out that several multifamily buildings had been converted into transitional housing without any public input.On the Southside, the issue comes up and is being covertly marketed by local an state government employees who are "hooking up" friends and real estate investors with problem properties. Many of these properties were illegally obtained with "straw buyers" and overinflated appraisals. These governmental employees are issuing how to primers to these individuals to ensure they can qualify as an operator.Is transitional housing needed? The answer is YES! There is a need for domestic violence survivors, HIV/AIDS, veterans , drug rehab, and those who have been incarcerated. But where does the public's right to decide who comes into their neighborhood lie? Is the systematic "dumping" of individuals and family's with issues, such as what has been done with CHA residents, in the best interest? Where do you stand on the issue?

Are You The Next: Entrepreneurial Idol

2011-12-06T23:13:00.001-06:00

Join CSU, Senator Mark Kirk and Congressman Jesse Jackson Jr. in crowning a new Entrepreneurial Idol.

Apply at http://www.csu.edu/business/eicompetition/apply.htm

Application Deadline Dec 21, 2011
Entrepreneurial Idol Competition Feb 3, 2012

To participate as an audience member visit http://www.csu.edu/business/eicompetition/registration.htm

6th Ward Committeeman's Race: Don't Get it Twisted

2011-12-06T12:55:00.001-06:00

Today was the final day for filing to run in the March 2012 primary and one of the offices up for grabs is the 6th ward committeeman's race. Many were expecting a rematch of the 6th ward Aldermandic race between Freddrenna Lyle and Roderick Sawyer. Roderick Sawyer won the Aldermandic seat. The Illinois Supreme Court cancelled the rematch when they appointed Lyle,an associate judge, to Cook County Circuit Court. But we will have a rematch between Roderick Sawyer and third place finisher Richard Wooten.While we have the same names this is a totally different race with totally different issues. So what is a committeeman?

The position is essentially that of an unpaid political advocate. A committeeman is elected to a leadership position for a partisan political jurisdiction. In Cook County, each of the fifty Wards and thirty Townships elect a Committeeman to represent the people of both (or all) major political parties. Each Committeeman is a voting member of their chosen Cook County Party Organization." They are in charge of activities such as "voter registration within the Ward, hosting community forums, providing election materials, and facilitating the smooth operation of primaries and elections." They also recruit Election Judges, Precinct Captains and Area Coordinators.Ward Committeeman can be a very powerful position. Sometimes they control the ward, and other times they are controlled by the alderman. In some instances, the alderman is also the committeeman. A handful of long time committeeman have the power to anoint (or destroy) the person that will be alderman in that Ward.Either way, the role carries with it both the glory of being an insider and the clout that comes with being so close to an alderman. In the past , if a committeeman bowed to his patron, he had the privilege of doling out jobs, favors, and services around the ward, and occasionally he was able to put his people in other political positions outside of the ward.

But we need to understand "close" is only important in horseshoes and not political races. A committeeman cannot vote on the city council floor, cannot call City of Chicago Department heads to request city services and cannot speak to the Mayor's intercircle.So before individuals get bent out of shape and attempt to reopen bruises and wounds from the Aldermandic race understand who and what you are voting for in the upcoming primary. The 6th ward has many challenges that need our attention and to get bowed down in rhetoric and negative campaigning just is a giant step backwards. Rehashing the aldermandic election and current city services issues is counterproductive. The issue is who will be able to do this job better. So I hope both campaigns will limit the negative campaigning and unnecessary rhetoric. Also, we need to look at the Republican race as there are more candidates running than there ever been in the 6th ward.

Mortgage Banking Operations Job Fair

2011-12-05T17:20:00.001-06:00

Chase Mortgage Banking Operations Job Fair

Tuesday December 6^th

11am to 6:30pm

10 South Dearborn

Chicago, IL

Must meet minimum qualifications to be interviewed

Please use the following links to apply

Loan Processor:

https://jpmchase.taleo.net/careersection/2/jobdetail.ftl?lang=en&job=110094372

Req # 110094372 - Minimum 2 year's mortgage processing experience - FHA/VA a plus

Processing Team Manager: https://jpmchase.taleo.net/careersection/2/jobdetail.ftl?lang=en&job=110094370

Req # 110094370 - Minimum 2 year's mortgage operations management experience

Underwriter: https://jpmchase.taleo.net/careersection/2/jobdetail.ftl?lang=en&job=110094385

Req # 110094385 - Minimum 2 year's mortgage underwriting experience - DE, LAPP a plus

Loan Closer: https://jpmchase.taleo.net/careersection/2/jobdetail.ftl?lang=en&job=110094376

Req # 110094376 - Minimum 2 year's mortgage closing experience

Closing Team Manager: https://jpmchase.taleo.net/careersection/2/jobdetail.ftl?lang=en&job=110094382

Req # 110094382 - Minimum 2 year's mortgage operations management experience

Is it Last Call for Alcohol in Chatham

2011-12-02T01:47:00.001-06:00

Alcohol and liquor is a subject that has been trending in Chatham. On a recent drive down East 87th street. I noticed a public notice in the window of the former Shelter Lounge and Deli building. I looked at the sign to see that someone had filed an application with the City of Chicago Liquor commission to open a lounge under the name "Licorice Lounge". Alcohol, liquor stores, wine and spirits, and lounges have been under scrutiny in the Chatham community. Even long time operators Rothchild's Liquors and Kenwood Liquors, in the Calumet Heights community have not been spared criticism. There are those who blame the violence that has been seen in the community on the lounges and liquor stores.Several lounge locations have had issues such as The 50 Yard Line 69 E 75th, where a patron who was kicked out came back with an accomplice to settle the score with employees and shot and wounded a Chicago Police Department off duty officer. Red Pepper's Lounge 428 E. 87th, where a patron exited the establishment walked around the corner with a female companion and was ambushed and shot to death. Laristo's 606 E 75th, where patrons standing in front of the establishment smoking became the victims of a drive by shooting.Happy's liquor store at 7901 S Cottage Grove, resides in the infamous Beat 624 and has come under intense scrutiny. Radio personality and Pastor John Hannah along with Michelle Harris, alderman of the 8th ward worked to temporarily close the store. The complaints include selling of cheap malt liquor, wine and spirits and allowing non customers to loiter around the premises. Recently the City of Chicago Liquor commission closed Happy Liquor for building code violations. Happy's is open under the condition they maintain security for the interior and exterior of the store. The hearings are still in processIn anticipation of Walmart entering the retail environment Walgreens and Aldi Foods have both decided to stock wine and spirits in their stores that serve Chatham. Both Jewel and Food For Less grocery stores have liquor departments and sell alcohol. Many are not happy about this but the stores state they need these departments to be competitive. These stores do not sell cheap alcohol and small sizes that are popular with those who engage in public drinking.Another argument is that while alcohol is legal it is a drug and addictive and the mere presence of a store gives a community a bad reputation. Recently a conversation on Everyblock took long time operator Kenwood Liquors to task. Kenwood Liquors has been selling liquor in the Calumet Heights prior to the racial changes that occurred in the late 1950's and early 1960's. The store which considers itself a high volume wine and spirits store. Although they do not advertise the store always has a line to get into their parking lot. The store has security, own a parking lot and does not allow unaccompanied children in their store. So this comment struck me as odd.

Liquor is a drug, a legal one witrhout doubt. But, the idea that many of our reesidents are obsessed with the purchase of even a legal drug is not a good one. These are repeat customers buying gallons of liquor at a time.Now, adults have the right to do whatever they want as long as they don't break the law. Fine. All I am saying is that the perception of Kenwood liquors is not a good one. I contrast it with Heinemans which was north of the loop for years. Discount prices and all kinds of exotic liquors, but never the maases of people descending on the store.

Maybe this why Heineman's is not open, they could not generate customers?Call it alcohol, wine and spirits,liquor there are those who oppose and it will become a subject for debate. So I wouldn't hold my breath for a Licorice Martini at the Licorice Lounge.

The Internet: A Gangsta's Paradise

2011-12-01T12:02:00.001-06:00

This past weekend I was engaged in an online conversation with my counterparts at The Sixth Ward Blog. The founder of the blog had noticed an unfamiliar traffic source and decided to check it out. The traffic was coming from a website called "The Hood Up"- Where America's Hoods Meet. The site boast to be an authority on gang activity nationwide. Apparently, one of their members decided to use a post from the blog to make a point. The blog post on The Sixth Ward site centered around a television report on Beat 624. The beat is a term Chicago Police use to define an area. Beat 624 borders the Chatham community at 79th Cottage Grove and was referred to as the "deadliest beat" in Chicago earlier this year because of the high level of violence. Well this is what this contributor to "The Hood Up" had to say

Re: Most Hardcore GD sets in the CHI???n$%%!& sound stupid talkin about GD's fell off...the wildest areas in the city is where the folks at..like 79th and cottagethe folks goin at wit each other basically, but best believe its still die 5 around this b@#$^.stones is bums and was never known for getting money anyway thou

Speaking to some who are more knowledgeable about gang matters, state this is not the only site like this. They also feel this person is not a gang banger but hangs around people affiliated with a gang. When you peruse this site some of the comments sound like a little corny but some are very scary and I wouldn't take lightly. Some have said the gangs are the same only the names have changed but it appears that cyberspace has changed not only the names but the game.

An Open Letter to Alderman Sawyer- What Chatham Residents Want

2011-11-30T02:57:00.001-06:00

Several weeks ago there was a post about what Chatham residents wanted http://www.chicagonow.com/concerned-citizens-of-chatham/2011/10/what-chatham-residents-want/to see in their community. Since that post residents have sent emails and made comments on this subject.This past weekend our Alderman issued a press release encouraging residents "To Shop Local". There was an intersting comment made about the press release

Revitalizing the busineeses sounds great but the businesses need to revitalize their vision to what people want in the 21st Century. The old ways of eating have been proven to be unhealthy and the consumers palette for music, books etc. has expanded. Make it relevant and the people will come to purchase

So I decided to compile the results and send a letter to my Alderman. Here is my letterEconomic Development LetterSo will the letter help?

Tuition- Free EMT Training for Women

2011-11-29T17:10:00.001-06:00

The Industrial Council of Nearwest Chicago (ICNC) is now accepting applications for EMT training.

Who qualifies for this program?

To qualify, you must be a working single woman earning between $10,000 - $40,000 per year
and living in the city of Chicago. It is also important that you have a clean record, both criminal
and driving.

Additionally, you must be fluent in English, have good basic math and reading skills and be able
to work legally in the United States.

Application Process:

1. Online Applications accepted Now
2. On-site assessment at ICNC - late January to mid February
3. On-site interviews at ICNC - February
4. Pre-class starts - March 2012

The link for the on-line application is:
http://www.icnctraining.org/index.html

Former Alderman Freddrenna Lyle Named Cook County Circuit Court Judge

2011-11-28T23:58:00.001-06:00

Lyle AppointmentCongratulations to the Honorable Judge Freddrenna Lyle.

Chicago Public Schools: The Lack of a Restorative Justice System Causes Kaos

2011-11-27T00:21:00.001-06:00

Several weeks ago I wrote about the Chicago Public Schools visiting the Chatham community about Richard Milburn Alternative High School http://www.chicagonow.com/concerned-citizens-of-chatham/2011/10/capcc-to-cps-richard-milburn-alternative-high-school-must-go/. The high school is a "safe school" defined by Chicago Public Schools. The alternative high school moved from one of the Chicago Archdioces catholic schools at Holy Angels Catholic Church in the Bronzeville community under "mysterious" circumstances. Many of the catholic schools on the southside have closed or are in the process of being closed. But in Chatham several catholic schools are still operating. The school moved into one of closed Chicago Archdiocese catholic schools. The school is housed inside of St Clotilde Catholic School. The school building became vacant after a private school renting the facility moved. When neighbors started seeing activity of someone moving in they inquired with the church and the Chicago Archdioces.

It wasn't until September 6th, 2011 that the community found out what they suspected. The community was informed that Chicago Public Schools was opening up an alternative high school that was housing at risk students who had been expelled from Chicago Public Schools, The students are also ineligible to attend charter schools and alternative schools. The only alternative is a private school or possibly catholic schools. Several other Alternative High School operators referred to by the Chicago Archdioces and Chicago Public Schools had approached the community about the St. Clotilde location and were told thanks but not interested. Call to Roderick Sawyer, Alderman of the 6th ward resulted in Alderman Sawyer going on local TV discussing his outrage at Chicago Public Schools, Chicago Archdioceses and St. Clotilde on their lack of respect towards the community and his office for no notification of this move. After six weeks into the school year the Chicago Public Schools sent out Jennifer Vidis, Deputy Director of Altenative Education. Ms. Vidis spoke at the Chatham Avalon Park Community Council (CAPCC) and Greater Chatham Alliance (GCA) and met angry crowds at both meetings who did not want to hear her compromise which was to create a community advisory council. Questions why local charter school and alternative high schools operators were not selected. Why several charter schools who have available space werenot considered. The community has requested information from Chicago Public Schools, Chicago Archdioces and St. Clotilde and have not received responses at this time. The story has caught the eye of the University of Chicago who is an operator of Charter Schools in the city of Chicago. The University of Chicago is becoming a leader of operating charter schools. The Chicago Weekly a publication associated with New City recently wrote a story on Richard Milburn. Some of the explanations given to the reporter contradict the explanations given to the community. http://chicagoweekly.net/2011/11/23/no-alternative/

In the early morning, things are pretty quiet around St. Clotilde Church in Chatham. A few cars may be heard turning west off Calumet onto 84th Street, but most of the noise comes from the wind hitting the trees that line the area’s sidewalks, shading its one- and two-story brick houses and 80-year-old stone church. It’s an area that feels more like a suburb than a part of the city, and its residents—mostly families and seniors—generally seem to like it that way, quiet and uneventful. It came as a surprise, then, when on the morning of September 6 a school bus stopped in front of St. Clotilde, and for the first time, opened its doors and let out a handful of teenage students. As far as the community was concerned, the school housed by St. Clotilde had been closed for years.As longtime Chatham resident and community activist Worlee Glover tells it, “Many of the residents had been seeing things move in throughout the summer, and when they were asking questions no one would answer. They approached the church, the church told them they didn’t know, nothing was going on, and then they went to call the Archdiocese and were really told it wasn’t none of their business.” After the school bus pulled up for the first day of class, more calls were made. Eventually it came out that the church’s second and third stories had become the new home of Richard Milburn High School and its 37 high school and ten junior high students.In the official language of Chicago Public Schools, Richard Milburn is an “alternative safe school,” serving students who have received long-term suspensions or, pending adjudication, may receive a long-term suspension. According to CPS spokesperson Frank Shuftan, “In the absence of a safe-school option, these students would be out of school.” Along with Banner North in Lincoln Park and Vivian Summers in Roseland, Milburn is designed to help suspended students continue their education, receive support services, and ultimately graduate, be it from their safe school or local school.Though safe schools are publically funded, each is operated by a contracted company. At Milburn, for example, administrators like school director Calista Winford are employees of Richard M. Milburn High Schools Inc., a private, Virginia-based company that has been contracted by CPS since 1998. The city has similar contracts in place at Banner North, where the school is operated by Banner Educational Group, and at Vivian Summers, operated by Human Resource Development Institute, Inc. According to Shuftan, the contractors “are better positioned to provide the flexible scheduling, wrap-around services, and transition supports needed for these students in highly personalized, very small school settings.”

So who is wrong? Is it Chicago Public Schools for their lack of a logical restorative justice system? Is it Chicago Archdioces for determining what a community want and need without consultation? So where does this school go from here?

Candlelight Vigil for Ben "Benji" Wilson

2011-11-22T12:01:00.001-06:00

In 1984, Ben Wilson was the #1 high school Basketball player in the country and he and his fellow Simeon team members were considered the #1 basketball team in the country. To my community he represented more than basketball, he represented the hopes and dreams that every parent had for their children. They all wanted their children to be the best they can be,go away to college and be successful in their lives.

Unfortunately, on November 21, 1984, 27 years ago to the date we lost Ben Wilson, a student at Simeon when a gang member attempted to rob Wilson and decided to shoot Wilson. Wilson's death shocked the school, community and the city. Some members of my community still have problems discussing that day and others still find it too painful to talk about.

Last night, a vigil was held in Cole Park and organized by Wilson's team mate Ervin Small, Alderman Roderick Sawyer, Wilson's brothers Jeff and Anthony and all his teammates. Approximately 100 community residents, friends, family and Simeon alunni came out. A host of Chicago' best former and current high school player came out to memorialize Wilson. The players included Marcus Liberty, Tracy Dildy, Lowell Hamilton, Bob Smith current Simeon High School coach and other.

The message from last night is the violence must stop. Also,Alderman Sawyer stated that there will be a some form of memorial for Ben WilsonFast forward 27 years and another teenager decided to take a gun innocent people a gun. Individuals with nothing to do with the disagreement lost their life. When will our young people understand they hurt far more people than their intended target when they take a gun and shoot someone down? Do they understand how long the hurt last?

This madness must stop!

The picture gallery can be found at http://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.10150413707324551.374157.79909419550&type=3

The Bridge to Chatham or Nowhere: Who Will Decide

2011-11-20T01:40:00.001-06:00

It looks like the Walmart being built in West Chatham in the Chatham Market Mall is on schedule to open in Feb 2012. Now it will get interesting because this is where politician and so called community activist who sold their souls for this Walmart are going to have to put up or hide. They have promised everyone jobs, displaced workers, youth, seniors, returning citizens, etc and now they are going to have to deliver.The other issue is the traffic. The estimates are that an additional 2,500 cars will travel west through Chatham via 83rd ad 87th Street to Walmart. A traffic study by Chicago Department of Transportation (CDOT), initiated by Howard Brookins, Alderman of the 21st ward recommended that a bridge be build at 85th Vincennes going over the Dan Ryan expressway to 85th State Street, which resides in the 6th ward, to ease traffic congestion on West 83rd and 87th Street. A second independent study funded by Walmart indicated that a bridge diverting traffic at 85th street into Chatham would not have a negative impact. Former Alderman Freddrenna Lyle vowed that a bridge if built would end in the middle of the Dan Ryan expressway. Also, all the candidates for Alderman of the 6th ward indicated they would not support a bridge project. Unfortunately it's not that cut and dry. An adjacent development which has not received a lot of press, "The Legacy Project" at 85th Vincennes, was backed by former Mayor Richard Daley is still in the works and was not factored into the estimates.The question still is who's going to pay for this bridge? Per Alderman Brookins, the revenue generated from Walmart would pay for it and there would be no cost to taypayers. Now, that we have a new mayor, alderman of the 6th ward and a new city council can this project be pulled off?

Transit Chicago: Sawyer Vs Claypool- Who Will Win

2011-11-18T13:19:00.001-06:00

Several days ago there was a tragic accident at 11 E. 79th Street http://www.chicagotribune.com/news/local/breaking/chi-concrete-beam-kills-worker-at-south-side-construction-site-20111116,0,7308729.story. A construction worker on a demolition site was killed when a beam fell on him. We extend our condolences to the family. I called the Alderman's office to inquire what was going to be built on the site, they stated the church was ordered to tear down the building and there were no immediate plans to build anything but the church was interested in working with the community to brig in businesses that would compliment the community. This is a departure from the arrogant stance Carter Temple CME Church and their leadership took several years ago.This was the second building on this corner that was demolished. The 7900 S State building on the corner was torn down several years ago. The building contained a liquor store and other stores on the ground level. Carter Temple led a group to have the have the liquor license revoked. Subsequently the church purchased the building with the intent to rehab but had internal disputes and ran afoul with the city. Also, an apartment building to the south was torn down because it was designated a public nuisance. The last time I checked the church was $400,000 plus in the hole on this project. They had come up with a plan to build a seniors building but were being urged to sell by members who had stayed after this project collapsed. The church will argue that they community and former Alderman Lyle interfered with them completing this project because she would not release a demolition lien against the project. She was asked by the community not to release the lien because there was no solid plan and financing in place at that time.It is unfortunate because the Alderman worked very hard to get Starbucks interested in the site before the building was demolished and after the church indicated that they did not want Starbucks CAPCC indicated they wanted to open a coffee shop/convenience store but members of the church who made up the committee overseeing the building indicated they were not interestedThe church and the community got the short end on this because of a small group of greedy church members. The building could have been rehab as an experienced developer attempted to purchase the building but refused to get into a bidding war against the church. Also, the church never had the necessary financing to complete a project and they brought in experienced urban planning and development personnel only to alienate them.Why is this corner important? The corner of 79th State has over 10,000 people on foot pass there everyday transferring from buses to trains. Other than several gas stations and a fast food restaurant, the intersection brings in very little tax revenue for the city and no jobs for the community. This intersection could be the spark needed to ignite 6th ward Alderman Roderick Sawyer's transit based economy plan. The 6th ward is home to 4 of the busiest stops on the Chicago Transit Authority's (CTA) Red Line El route. While busy with pedestrians with the exception of 87th street the other stops lack any businesses that consumers need. After Alderman Sawyer was elected and discussed his plan. CTA commissioner Forest Claypool dismissed it as unexecutable.

FOX Chicago Sunday: CTA President Forrest Claypool: MyFoxCHICAGO.com

Alderman Sawyer was disturbed about the comment and vowed he would prove Claypool wrong.Hopefully, when it comes time for developing the site the church will not renege and we can finally look at a building versus a large dirty lot at a major intersection. Frankly, I smell some coffee and sandwiches on that corner. what would you like to see?

Alderman Sawyer Votes to Approve 2012 Chicago Budget

2011-11-16T17:44:00.001-06:00

Alderman Sawyer Votes to Approve 2012 Chicago Budget

Letter to the Mayor: I Know How to Dial 311

2011-11-16T15:47:00.001-06:00

I attended the Park Manor Neighbors Commuity Councill (PMCC) meeting last Monday, November 7, 2011. The meeting was lively as residents put the Chicago Police Department on the hot seat.The President Darlene Tribue addressed the audience about her frustration with a lack of communication with the Chicago Police Department. Her frustration led up to her calling 311 and leaving a stern and nasty message for Mayor Rahm Emmanuel.
Well it appears that the message got through as she stated, she started receiving phone calls from various high ranking police personnel. In response, the Chicago Police Department Area 2 personnel came out to the meeting. Deputy Superintendent Ernest Brown, Area 2 Commander, 3rd District Commander Christopher Fletcher, 6th District Commander Eric Carter and several other raking offiicer were in attendance. Also, the meeting was graced by Felicia Davis of the Mayor's office.
Residents wasted no time laying into Deputy Superintendent Brown who was the former commander of the 3rd district. Brown attempted to explain that the police department was in process of implementing a new strategy and computer based policing model. It sounded good but the residents were not buying it as they said they have heard all of this before. Commander Carter, Fletcher and others one by one were placed on the hot seat by the audience.Then came Ms. Davis. I asked Davis why does Mayor Rahm Emmanuel do drive by's in our community? He stops in Walgreens and Niketown for a photo op. He stops at Dixon Elementary and 95th Red line stop for photo ops, but will not sit down and have a conversation with the residents of the 6th ward. I challenged her to go back and ask him to walk down 79th street with community leaders and see what the concerns are as 79th street has been hit with a lot of crime. I stated if they were really serious about fighting crime that would add more lighting on 79th street as the street is extremely dark and becuase they have cut the budget of the bureau of Electricity to the bare bones we have frequent power outages leaving the street completely dark in some areas. I even illustrated it by stating when a dark skin person cannot see the back of their hand that means its really dark outside.Well this is when the show started, Ms. Davis and Deputy Superintendent Brown tap danced better than Sammy Davis Jr and Gregory Hines. I was told to call 311 about the lights. That will solve the situation but its only been 120 days I've been waiting to get my alley light replaced. Then I was told about him stopping at the Red Line and riding with officers through Englewood. The last statement angered several residents who angrily voiced their disapproval by stating "This isn't Englewood".After seeing that the officers got the message loud and clear Mrs. Tribue adjouned the meeting and wished Deputy Superintendent good luck in his retirement.

So again the mayor ducked the people of the 6th ward. He sends his aide who tap dances and gives the commuity no answers. Is he still mad about the Izola's situation? Again. Mr. Mayor the residents of the 6th ward are waiting on you or are you going to try and avoid us for 4 years?

Help the Ben Wilson Documentary

2011-11-13T15:20:00.001-06:00

I have been contacted by ESPN Films. They are producing a documentary on Ben Wilson. They are looking

for videos of the community that may or may not include him from the 1960-80's. Also, he is looking for any

pictures people may have of Ben. If you have videos or pictures please send to http://ryangoldberg.net/. This

is our opportunity to ensure history is told correctly.

Wilson went to Simeon and was tragically killed in November 1984 the day before his senior season began;

the outpouring of grief city-wide was unprecedented. Wilson and his family grew up in Chatham.

Upcoming 6th Ward Community Meetings

2011-11-13T13:39:00.001-06:00

Here is a partial listing of upcoming community meetings

Chatham Avalon Park Community Council
Monday
November 14, 2011
6:30 to 8:30 pm
Northern Trust Bank
7800 S. State StreetTopic: Community Issues

November 15, 2011
7:00 pm
Roseland Heights Community Association Remap Forum
Temple of Glory International
311 E. 95th Street Chicago, IL 60619
Guest Speaker: Jean Paul Thomas

Greater Chatham Alliance Community Organization
Saturday
November 19, 2011
11:00 am to 1:30 pm
St. James Lutheran Church
8001 S. Michigan
Topic: Community Issues

Who Stole the Planters in Front of Josephine's ?

2011-11-11T14:44:00.001-06:00

Picture courtesy of Chicago Defender

Received this press release

Josephine Hardtimes boilingmad over theft of her planters allegedly by firemen

By Chinta Strausberg

Josephine Wade, the owner ofJosephine’s Hardtimes Cooking Restaurant, 436 E. 79^th St., isboiling mad over the Chicago Fire Department’s allegedly orchestrating theremoval of two of her large planters she put outside of her popular restaurantback in 1990. A witness said he saw firemenin their uniform inspect the planters then allegedly directed a man on atractor to haul them away. “I feel so hurt, and I amdepressed because they felt like a part of my soul,” she said. “I put those outlong before the city’s beautification program. I bought them in Great Lakes. Ihad a truck to deliver them. “I want the city to give meback my property,” an irate Wade said. “They should be glad that a personthought enough to beautify this area.
“There were drawings on theoutside of the beige concrete planters that were drawn by area students as partof a summer program to prevent violence,” said Wade. “Each painting was adoptedby myself, another one was adopted former Ald. Freddrenna Lyle, Ald. MichelleHarris, and Rev. Walter Johnson. “I want to know why would thecity take my property without first consulting me,” Wade said. “I want the cityto return my planters and the paintings. I feel like I have lost a part of my soul,” she said calling on Ald.Roderick Sawyer (6^th) to launch an investigation into the theft ofher planters allegedly by city workers. Calls placed to the Chicago Fire Department were not returned

What do you think needs to be done?

Veterans Day 11.11.11- We Salute the Unsung Heros

2011-11-11T02:20:00.001-06:00

Today is Veterans Day and we take time to honor all those who are serving and have served in the Armed Forces to protect our country. Let us today honor those who's story haven't been told, those acts of courage, overcoming barriers and acts of bravery.

Today, we salute the Tuskegee Airmen. In December, 1941, the United States entered World War II’s European Theatre to join the Allied forces of Freedom and Democracy against the Nazi ideals of ethnic and racial purity. One of the Allies’ strongest weapons was the 332nd Fighter Group, 450 Fighter Pilots known as the Tuskegee Airmen because they were trained at the Tuskegee Institute in Alabama. They were all Black.There were 996 original Airmen. These included pilots, bombardiers, and navigators.More than 10,000 black men and women served as their vital support personnel.There were 450 pilots who served in combat overseas in the European Theater of Operations, North Africa, and the Mediterranean.Of the Tuskegee aviators, 66 died in combat.There were 33 Tuskegee Airmen who became prisoners of war.They flew over 700 bomber escort missions and ended the war as the only fighter group to never lose an escorted bomber to enemy fighters.The flight of a combat aircraft on a mission is called a sortie. The Tuskegee Airmen flew 15,533 sorties between May 1943 and June 1945.White American pilots were not allowed to fly more than 52 missions, but black American pilots often flew up to 100 missions due to lack of replacements.They destroyed 251 enemy aircraft.They won more than 850 medals which included:150 Distinguished Flying Crosses8 Purple Hearts14 Bronze Stars744 Air Medals and clusters3 distinguished unit citationsThis story has never been told on the big screen but in January 2012 the movie "Redtails" will tell their story. These gentlemen had real "swagger" and hopefully our young men and women will view this movie and see the definition of the word in these men. These men were respectful, smart and fearless.

The Chatham community was fortunate to have an "Airmen" living and working in our commuity. The late Dr. Andrew Perez lived his life after the war just as honorable as he did during the war. We salute Dr. Perez, the Airmen, and all those who serve and protect.

Harlan Community Academy High School Student Council Annual Coat & Food Drive

2011-11-09T12:06:00.000-06:00

The Harlan Community Academy High School Student Council

is hosting their annual COAT & FOOD DRIVE

Begins November 1, 2011 until December 14, 2011

Our mission is to collect gently used, clean coats and non- perishable food items for those who are less fortunate.

Our goal is 200 COATS and 300 NON-PERISHABLE ITEMS(also accepting jackets, hats,

scarves,sweatshirts and mittens)

Items can be turned in to the Harlan Community Academy Attendance Office

9652 South Michigan Avenue

Chicago, Illinois 60628

Tel 773.535.5415

When Does the Madness Stop

2011-11-09T10:34:00.002-06:00

Yesterday I received an email that brought great news that was long overdue. A major media entity stated they were producing a documentary on a former Chatham resident Ben Wilson. In 1984, Ben Wilson was the #1 high school Basketball player in the country and he and his fellow Simeon team members were considered the #1 basketball team in the country. To my community he represented more than basketball, he represented the hopes and dreams that every parent had for their children. They all wanted their children to be the best they can be,go away to college and be successful in their lives.

Unfortunately, almost 27 years ago to the date we lost Ben Wilson, a student at Simeon had a disagreement with Wilson and decided to solve his disagreement by shooting Wilson. Wilson's death shocked the school, community and the city. Some members of my community still have problems discussing that day and others still find it too painful to talk about.Fast forward 17 years and another teenager decides to take a gun and solve a disagreement with a gun. This time individuals with nothing to do with the disagreement lost their life. When will our young people understand they hurt far more people than their intended target when they take a gun and shoot someone down? Do they understand how long the hurt last?There was an anti-violence rally last night and some questioned was it going to make a difference. But they did not understand it was there to memorialize those we have lost in the past present and unfortunately the future. Maybe it was the rallying call that is needed.

This madness must stop!

ALDERMAN SAWYER RESPONDS TO THE WEEKEND VIOLENCE IN THE 6TH WARD

2011-11-07T16:29:00.000-06:00

For Immediate Release

Contact Lesley Chinn lrchinn33@gmail.com

(773) 746-9044

ALDERMAN SAWYER RESPONDS TO THE WEEKEND VIOLENCE IN THE 6^THWARD

Today, Alderman Roderick T. Sawyer reaffirmed his commitment to end the random violence in the 6^th Ward after a rash of events this weekend. There were reports of shootings on 87^th and King as well as 91^st and Urban, separate from the triple homicide and police crash that also happened at 87^th and King Drive.

“Our hearts and prayers go out to the victims of this horrible crime but I want to make certain that everyone understands that our resolve to maintain our neighborhoods and business districts has not diminished,” Alderman Sawyer said. “We are working hard to provide opportunity for everyone that wants it, but for those punks who insist on terrorizing our community they will find that we don’t fall easily.”

In seeking to address the increased violence in the area Alderman Sawyer has supported increased police presence as well as the establishment of residential Special Service Areas (SSAs) that are focused on safety. This is also why Alderman Sawyer criticizes some of the reductions in front line OEMC staff that helps dispatch emergency personnel.

Alderman Sawyer plans to attend the Stop the Violence Vigil being held tomorrow at the place of the shooting on 87^th and King Drive tomorrow November 8^th at 6:00 pm sponsored by the Chatham Avalon Park Community Council.

Where to Find "Da Bears" in Chatham

2011-11-06T23:09:00.000-06:00

2nd Annual Monday Night Football Fundraiser
Monday November 7, 2011
7:00- 11:00pm
Frances
307 East 75th Street
MINIMUM DONATION: $100

ICE Chatham 14
210 W. 87th
7:30 PM
Free: with $5.00 concession purchase

Is it Time For Zero Tolerance

2011-11-06T16:29:00.000-06:00

Yesterday's incident http://www.chicagotribune.com/news/local/breaking/chi-at-least-3-wounded-in-south-side-shooting-20111105,0,4322644.story brought me back to Shayla Raymond a 15 year old who was struck by a car fleeing an individual at the 87th King Drive intersection. http://thesixthward.blogspot.com/2010/03/15-year-old-girl-dies-in-chatham-hit.html. Also, Zero Tolerance a topic I have discussed in the past.

Over the last several years http://concernedcitizensofchatham.blogspot.com/2010/02/man-found-fatally-stabbed-in-chatham-do.html http://concernedcitizensofchatham.blogspot.com/2011/06/wtf-pimpin-continues.html. I have called for allowing the Chicago Police Department to institute a Zero Tolerance Policy. Many have said "be careful for what you wish for because you might just get it", but at this point the Chicago Police Department, Roderick Sawyer, Alderman of the 6th ward, Chatham area community based organizations and concerned citizens have to make a strong statement. "NOT HERE AND NOT ON MY BLOCK". Over the past several years their have been some high profile incidents and the fact is the perpetrators are coming into or through the Chatham community. This must stop, the fear of being arrested must be put on the minds of those who think they can run through and pillage and Chatham is not a "hangout" spot. Our Mayor, Rahm Emmanuel loves to do drive by's in the community for photo ops but will not answer the question "Why Can't We Light Up 79th Street"?. Our Chief of Police, Garry McCarthy dissed the community by not showing up to a community meeting and has stated he has been in our community more than any others but has yet showed us the policing strategy that made him a rock star on the Brick City series. Also, he has yet to fulfill the promise he made to the young people of our community at Peace in the Park.

Yes, the City of Chicago can be blamed but the residents of the community have to step up and demand that we get better city services and select politicians that can get the job done. If we continue to reelect politicians who are sound bites and not "bring home the bacon" politicians we are going at this backwards. Continuing to spend money on security systems, cameras, surveillance help bu will not the problem and community organizations with "Bloods and Crips" attitudes must stop immediately.

Once we stand up and say I'm sick and tired of this $@^%!, then and only then will it stop.

Plumbers Local 130 (Cook County)- Accepting Apprenticeship Applications 11/3/2011-1/26/2012

2011-11-05T15:51:00.000-05:00

Apprentice Applications2011 to 2012 Registrations
The Plumber's Joint Apprenticeship Committee, Local 130 U.A. will beaccepting applications for apprenticeship.
WHERE1400 WEST WASHINGTON BOULEVARD
CHICAGO, ILLINOIS 60607-1821
(312) 421-1028

2114 S. I- 80 FRONTAGE ROAD
JOLIET, ILLINOIS 60436
( 815) 725-0278DATE
Every Thursday, starting November 3, 2011 and ending January 26, 2012.(Closed Thanksgiving Day)TIMEThursday 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. and 1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m.
Extended hourswill be available on the 2nd and 3rd Thursday, 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.
REGISTRATION* $25.00 Fee (Cashiers Checks or Money Orders, No Cash, No PersonalChecks, No Credit Cards) Make Payable to Plumbers J.A.C., Local 130.* $10.00 Optional Test Taking Tip Book (Cash Only)

REQUIREMENTS1. 18 Years of Age or Older 17 years of age for Senior High SchoolStudents (must provide students I.D.)
2. Two forms of I.D. including one photo I.D.
3. Must provide a valid Drivers License
4. Photo Copy of Birth Certificate.
5. Photo Copy of Diploma or G.E.D. A Water sealed letter from your HighSchool will be accepted. Water sealed transcripts with the graduation datewill be accepted.

REGISTEREDU.S. Department of LaborBureau of Apprenticeship and TrainingApproved Apprentice ProgramAFFIRMATIVEACTION STATEMENTNOTICE OF NONDISCRIMINATION POLICYAS TO STUDENTSThe Trust Fund for Apprentice and Journeyman Education and Training,Chicago Journeymen Plumbers Local Union 130, U.A., school admits studentsof any race, color, national and ethnic origin, or sex to all phases ofApprenticeship. It does not discriminate on the basis of race, color,national and ethnic origin or sex in the administration of its educationalpolicies, admissions policies, scholarship and loan programs, and otherschool administered programs.JAMES T. SULLIVAN ChairmanCRAIG W. THOMAS Co-ChairmanRICHARD C. O'CONNOR Training Coordinator
Visit http://www.plumberslu130ua.com/site/section/3/214 for more information.

Remember to Fall Back - Change your Clock and Change Your Batteries

2011-11-05T14:22:00.001-05:00

Daylight Savings Time ends at 2am . Set your clocks back one hour and don't forget to change the batteries in your smoke detectors.Also, if you see any vacant and open buildings, please report to 311 or email troubledbuildings@chicagopolice.org.

Save The Date: November 10, 2011 Important Meetings

2011-11-04T01:16:00.000-05:00

6th Ward Seniors Meeting
Thursday
November 10, 2011
11 AM
St Mark AME Zion Church
7358 South Cottage Grove Avenue
Chicago, IL 60619
The Assessor’s Office will be a special guest helping Seniors Re-apply for Property Tax Exemptions until 2pmOther Guests include:Guest Speaker: Ms. Delores Williams (OEMC)Guest Speaker: Mr. Michael Johnson (Sheriff’s Dept.) &Guest Speaker: Ms. Julia Coleman Director of Peace Hospice
CTA Budget Hearing
Thursday
November 10, 2011
6:00 P.M.
Kennedy-King College
740 W. 63rd Street
Chicago, Illinois 60621

8TH Ward Town Hall Meeting Forum hosted by Ald. Michelle Harris,
Thursday,
November 10,2011
6:30 p.m. – 8:30 p.m.
1215 E. 83rd St.
Information, Call 773-874-3300

Calling All 8-17 Yr Olds- Become a Tuskegee Airmen Young Eagle

2011-11-03T15:08:00.000-05:00

Calling All 8-17 Yr Olds- Become a Tuskeegee Airmen Young Eagle
The Young Eagles is a program developed by the Experimental Aircraft Association (EAA) to introduce children, ages 8 to 17 to the exciting world of flight. The Young Eagles program encourages volunteer EAA pilots to volunteer their time, aircraft, and fuel to give free introductions to aeronautics to the children. During most years, we average about 40 new Young Eagles each month that the weather permits us to to fly. The program includes a ground orientation to the principles of flight, an introduction to the aircraft’s systems and controls, and, of course the highlight, an introductory flight where the child can experience the joy and excitement of flight first-hand. The Young Eagles program is fully insured and has an excellent safety record.
After each flight the child receives a special certificate signed by his or her pilot and the child’s name is entered in the World’s Largest Logbook at the EAA Air Adventure Museum at EAA headquarters in Oshkosh. The goal of the program is to introduce as many children as possible to aviation. By doing so, the programs sponsors will encourage the next generation of U.S. pilots, and will excite children across the country and around the world excited about staying in school, studying hard, and following their dreams.

Contact the Hotline 773.602.2880. Fin out more information on the Airmen at http://www.taichicago.org/

Black World Cinema- Black Power Mixtape

2011-11-02T23:42:00.000-05:00

Black Power Mixtape: 1967-1975, 2011, Sweden A film by Göran Hugo OlssonAt the end of the Sixties and into the early Seventies, European interest in the US Civil Rights Movement and the US anti-war movement peaked. With a combination of commitment and naivetО, Swedish filmmakers traveled across the Atlantic to explore the Black Power Movement, which was being alternately ignored or portrayed in the US media as a violent, nascent terrorist movement. Despite the obstacles they were confronted with, both from the conservative white American power establishment and from radicalized Movement members themselves, the Swedish filmmakers did not cease their investigation and ultimately formed bonds with key figures in the Movement, based on their common objective of realizing equal rights for all. In the Black Power Mixtape filmmaker Goran Olsson brings this newly discovered footage to light and introduces it to a new generation across the world in a penetrating examination – through the lens of Swedish filmmakers – of the Black Power Movement from 1967-75, and its worldwide resonance.
Thurs,
Nov 3,
7pm
Adm:$5.00
ICE Theaters Chatham 14
210 W. 87th Street
Chicago, IL
All screenings are followed by lively discussions moderated by program director Floyd Webb or local scholars, screenwriters and directors.

Screenings occur the first Wednesday atICE Theaters Lawndale3330 W Roosevelt RoadAnd first Thursday of every month atICE Theaters Chatham 14210 W. 87th StreetChicago, IL

Why It's Time for Chatham to Reach Out and Make Friends With Republicans.

2011-11-02T09:58:00.000-05:00

The remapping process is going into the middle rounds and several players have emerged to battle it out. The Black Caucus, Hispanic Caucus and Republicans. The remap process has become a big issue in Chatham because the maps presented so far by the Black Caucus alters the 6th ward as we know and have known it. The Black Caucus maps seeks to keep all the current wards that were predominately African American although the African American population has decreased based on the last census. The Hispanic Caucus believes they should have more wards with majority Hispanic population based on the results of the last census. The Republicans while not a major player in the city believe that the broader borders at the State and Federal levels are unbalanced.So why is it a big issue in the 6th ward. The Black Caucus map moves the southern border from 99th street to 87th street and moves the western border from Green to Halsted. The residents on the southern end living in the Chesterfield, West Chesterfield and Roseland Heights are mad as hell and crying foul. They feel that the remap is retaliation by former Alderman Freddrenna Lyle for not supporting her in her reelection attempt. Lyle is the chief architect for the Black Caucus in the remap process. They do not like or want to live in the 9th ward because they feel that the cost of insurance will increase and home values may decrease. The alderman is Anthony Beale. Alderman Beale and State Senator Meeks are the kings with no kingdom and fought extremely hard during the last remap to have Chicago State University in the districts, they went as far as passing out materials to Chicago State students and faculty declaring themselves the new political representatives. On the western end, several rogue community groups have decided to make Alderman Sawyer the poster boy for the problems in Englewood and Greater Grand Crossing. In 120 days, Alderman Sawyer is the cause of 30 years of disinvestment by business and misuse of government resources by various not for profits, church's and community organizations. These groups claim to represent Greater Grand Crossing/Englewoo residents in the 6th ward but those I have met and seen at ward events do not indicate this.

So my strategy to stop the dismantling of the 6th ward, by the Black Caucus is to reach out to the Republicans and hear their proposals. Since the Black Caucus is hell bent on saving a couple of slack alderman who may or may not support them in a tight vote( Remember Ike Corruthers). The rogue community groups on the western end have probably already reached out to the Hispanic Caucus. Do we have a chose? Why won't the Black Caucus sacrifice a couple of districts and move on. Frankly, if the person is someone who should be an Alderman their constituents irregardless of race will support them. Alderman Walter Burett and former Alderman Thomas Murphy proved my point. Maybe after the Black Caucus sees the Republicans are interested, maybe they will come to their senses.

Energy Community Outreach Day

2011-11-01T10:38:00.000-05:00

Community Outreach Day
Saturday
November 5, 2011
10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Kennedy-King College
740 W. 63rd St.

To provide opportunities for public to access state, city, and community services in one location. These services include applying for grants to help pay or reconnect your gas or lights and receiving information on your pending CEDA application. Please bring the following items such as
proof of household income for the past 30 days;
current rental lease agreement (ID required);
original social security cards for all members of your household;
original current electric and gas bills. (If your utilities are inclued in your rent payments, it must be stated in your lease agreement to receive a cash payment)
proof of home ownership required for an emergency furnace.

For more information, call the following offices:

CEDA Hotline: 1-800-571-2332
Peoples Gas: 866-556-6001
ComEd: 800-334-7661

Alderman Sawyer Supports Maintaining Library Funding in the 2012 Budget

2011-10-31T18:40:00.000-05:00

ALDERMAN SAWYER SUPPORTS MAINTAINING LIBRARY FUNDING IN THE 2012 BUDGETAlderman Roderick T. Sawyer of the 6th Ward supports maintaining library staffing and hours of operation at its current levels. “This is not the time to be laying off workers,” Alderman Sawyer said, “the city council must do what it can in order to maintain services.”Not only is the library facing a reduction of nearly 33% of its staff but there will also be a reduction in hours. Furthermore, in communities that are facing challenges in bridging the digital divide there needs to be an expansion in community resources provided by the public library system, not a reduction. Job searchers need to be able to look for jobs, update their resumes and print out cover letters at our public libraries. Alderman Sawyer joins those who believe that the reduction of hours will disproportionately affect lower income communities.While joining others who are looking for alternative savings or revenue that could offset covering the cost Alderman Sawyer is focused on a serious political reality. Funding for the Chicago Library System was never intended to be covered by the corporate fund, the initial ordinance called for all operations to be handled through a real-estate levy. Many years ago the decision was made to transfer a part of the budget to the corporate fund, a decision which is leading to the service cuts requested in this budget.“Right now it seems like we are asking our workers and communities to once again pay the cost for the politicians’ short term political decisions. That’s not right and I can’t support it.”

Career Opportunities

2011-10-31T18:35:00.000-05:00

South Suburban College will host an Open House for the Court Reporting/Verbatim Technology Program on Thursday, November 10th from 7:00 p.m. – 8:30 p.m. at the University & College Center, Room 5109. The SSC Court Reporting/Verbatim Technology Program is fully accredited by the National Court Reporters Association. It is a comprehensive career education program that can lead to an exciting, high paying career. Upon completion of all of the courses, students receive an Associate in Applied Science Degree and are well-prepared to take the Illinois Certified Shorthand Reporter Examination–the professional certifying exam for the State of Illinois. Reporters are in high demand and may work in areas such as judicial reporting, broadcast captioning, steno interpreting and web casting. In addition to the excellent earnings, court reporters have opportunities for travel, exposure to high-profile cases, and self-employment. All of SSC’s Court Reporting classes are held at the University and College Center in Oak Forest. The UCC is located at 16333 South Kilbourn Avenue, Oak Forest, IL. For more information, please contact LaTherese Cooke, Program Coordinator, at (708) 596-2000, ext. 3217, or visit www.ssc.edu.

Labor Compliance Specialist

Assistant Conductor

Upcoming Community Meetings

2011-10-30T23:11:00.000-05:00

Here is a partial listing of upcoming community meetings

Park Manor Neighbors
Monday
November 7, 2011
6:30 to 8:30 pm
Northern Trust Bank
7800 S State Street
Topics: Community Issues

Chatham Avalon Park Community Council
Monday
November 14, 2011
6:30 to 8:30 pm
Northern Trust Bank
7800 S. State Street
Topic: Community Issues

8th Ward Town Hall Meeting Forum
hosted by Ald. Michelle Harris
Thursday,
November 10,2011
6:30 p.m. – 8:30 p.m.
1215 E. 83rd St.
Information, Call 773-874-3300

Greater Chatham Alliance Community Organization
Saturday
November 12, 2011
11:00 am to 1:30 pm
St. James Lutheran Church
8001 S. Michigan
Topic: Community Issues

In Need of DSLR Camera Lens

2011-10-30T19:55:00.002-05:00

The Friends of the Bessemer Bears, a non profit organization supporting the Special Recreation program at Bessemer Park is in need of any unwanted DSLR camera lens. Please contact ccchatham@sbcglobal.net and thank you.

Did Walgreen's Pull a Fast One on the First Lady?

2011-10-27T16:02:00.000-05:00

Recently, I received an email from one of my readers asking did I know that Walgreens located at 8528 S Cottage Grove was selling Pork Chitterlings. Some may ask what are Chitterlings? Pork Chitterlings are the intestines of pigs. Some consider Chitterlings a delicacy while others find them disgusting. What makes this an issue is that Walgreens history is that they are a pharmacy. Also, hypertension is a major cause of death in the African American community. So the irony here is the same company that sells products to help extend life is also selling products that end life.This past Tuesday, First lady Michelle Obama visited the Walgreen's store at 75th Dan Ryan located in the Chatham community. She received a tour around the store by Walgreen officials touting their "healthy" food options of fresh fruits and vegetables. they touted they are doing business with local African American vendors and they have a clinic inside the store. The first lady praised them in their efforts to reduce the "food desert" on the southside of Chicago. The only problem is they did not show her Aunt Bessie's Pork Chitterlings in the freezer section.So I asked Walgreen's why were they selling Pork Chitterlings. Their response was as follows:

We serve a wide variety of customers and recognize that some options aren’t for everyone. Your readers should also know that this location is one of the many in Chicago where we've expanded the healthy food offerings by adding things like fresh fruits and vegetables, meats, whole grain pasta and other basic healthy meal components.
We appreciate your feedback and will certainly take it into consideration

So do you think Walgreen's will remove Pork Chittelings?

Safe Halloween Options

2011-10-27T00:55:00.000-05:00

Here are some safe options to trick or treating

Chicago Park District
Nightmare at 63rd St. Beach Haunted House
Oct. 28th-30th,
6:30-9:30pm.
Ages 12 & up.
Admission $10

2nd Annual West Chesterfield Haunted House
Saturday
October 29
12:00pm - 3:00pm
9351 S Michigan,
Chicago IL 60619
Sponsored by the West Chesterfield Community Association
Get ready to be scared crazy!!! Children ages 5-17 welcome.
Admission $3.00 per person. Come in costume.

HALLELUJAH PARTY
sponsored by the Singles Community of TUCC
SaturdayOctober 29, 2011
Fun, food and fellowship for children ages 12 and under,
3:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m.
TUCC Atrium
400 W 95th
Pumpkin decoration2:30 p.m. – 3:00 p.m.
George Washington Carver Organic Community Garden
Costume parade, face painting and more
Admission Free

Got Drugs? Turn in Your Unused or Expired Medication This Saturday

2011-10-26T23:43:00.001-05:00

Have unwanted pills? Prescription 'take-back" is this Saturday. The Drug Enforcement Administration's program to help prevent pill abuse and accidental overdoses by disposing of unwanted or expired prescriptions.Because prescription drugs shouldn't be flushed down the toilet or washed down the sink, police will collect pills, capsules, and tablets.There is no charge, and they won't ask any questions.Police will not accept intravenous solutions, injectables, and needles. Nor will they take marijuana, methamphetamine, or other illicit substances. Drop off points in Chatham
CHICAGO POLICE DEPARTMENT
3RD DISTRICT - GRAND CROSSING
312-747-8201
7040 S. COTTAGE GROVE AVENUE
CHICAGO IL, 60637
CHICAGO POLICE DEPARTMENT 6TH DISTRICT - GRESHAM
312-745-3617
7808 SOUTH HALSTED
CHICAGO IL, 60620

For more information http://www.deadiversion.usdoj.gov/drug_disposal/takeback/index.html

Did Chatham Blow the Opportunity to Get a New Library

2011-10-26T00:34:00.000-05:00

Our new mayor Rahm Emmanuel has decided that the Chicago Public Library is expendable , he is proposing closing some libraries and reducing the hours they are open. In 2008 , the City of Chicago Council approved the overhaul of the Whitney Young Library, at 79th King Drive, that served the Chatham, Park Manor, Avalon Park, Chesterfield and West Chatham communities. The Whitney Young Library was a library surrounded by controversy from day one. The community led by members of the Chatham Avalon Community Council(CAPCC) picketed the construction site because of a lack of African American constuction workers present on the site and later because the the building was so shabbily built it needed major repairs that the Chicago Public Library refused to do.Since the approval of the remodeling of Whitney Young library, the Chicago Public Library has opened up new branches in Avalon Park, Greater Grand Crossing and Park Manor communities. The Whitney Young Library stood as an unfunded plan because the community or rather some residents felt the initial proposed library was woefully insufficient. In April 2010, I wrote the following post for the Sixth Ward Blog The post is here http://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=4670547542156136826#editor/target=post;postID=1709762787405151017

The debate about the Whitney Young library seems to continue for no reason except that some individuals in this community have bruised egos.The Chicago Public library commissioner Mary Dempsey has reiterated her position that the Whitney Young Library will be a single story building with a two story facade that will be the same square footage as the two story building. She has stated that based on the current economy that she does not have the resources to staff a two floor building. She has pointed to the Beverly, Mount Greenwood, and West Pullman branches are all built on this model and are functioning well for those communities.It was reported on the CAPCC blog(unverified) that members of CAPCC are still insisting that the CPL build a two story building only because the Humbolt Park branch is two story and their ad hoc committee decided that the Whitney Young branch should be based on that model.The problem with the CAPCC thought process is that first its selfish and unsubstantiated by any meaningful and documented facts. The facts are as follows:There is no substantiated facts that circulation has increased to justify a two story facilityThe CPL did not commission CAPCC to solicit community responseThe Chatham community has six library facilities within a 5 mile radius to frequentAuburn Park - 76Th RacineAvalon Park - 81st Stony IslandWoodson Regional - 95th HalstedGrand Crossing- 73rd South Chicago (Fall 2010)Kennedy King College- 64th halsted (no book checkout)Chicago State University - 95th King (no book checkout)These are the facts as well as several former CPL employees who are also Chatham residents have voiced their disapproval because of the incompetence of the current staff and safety issues.Based on the above, CAPCC needs to get out of the way and let the library process go forward so we can get a building sooner than later. I think we need to focus on a more immediate problem and figure out why with the number of libraries that serve our community why do we have failing elementary and high schools.What do you think?

Fast forward to October 2010, the Whitney Young Library is still in limbo. In May of 2010, it was found that the additional land purchased for the library needed environmental remediation and there had been no monies allotted for this project. The Public Building Commission applied for and was granted funds to complete the project by the US EPA. As of last week, commissioner Mary Dempsey reported to the city council that they have not received the funds from the EPA for the project. Also, at a recent CAPCC meeting the same argument about the building came up. The Wicker Park/Bucktown branch (http://www.pbcchicago.com/content/projects/project_detail.asp?pID=CPL-42). The facts are the new proposal is a 16,500 square feet, 1.5 story building. This is the same model that is being used in Bridgeport and one other community. All the other issues brought up in April 2010 are the same.

So my question is if we get a new library, does form overrule functionality? But the big question is did

Did Chatham Blow the Opportunity For a New Library?

2011-10-25T14:52:00.000-05:00

The debate about the Whitney Young library seems to continue for no reason except that some individuals in this community have bruised egos.The Chicago Public library commissioner Mary Dempsey has reiterated her position that the Whitney Young Library will be a single story building with a two story facade that will be the same square footage as the two story building. She has stated that based on the current economy that she does not have the resources to staff a two floor building. She has pointed to the Beverly, Mount Greenwood, and West Pullman branches are all built on this model and are functioning well for those communities.It was reported on the CAPCC blog(unverified) that members of CAPCC are still insisting that the CPL build a two story building only because the Humbolt Park branch is two story and their ad hoc committee decided that the Whitney Young branch should be based on that model.The problem with the CAPCC thought process is that first its selfish and unsubstantiated by any meaningful and documented facts. The facts are as follows:There is no substantiated facts that circulation has increased to justify a two story facilityThe CPL did not commission CAPCC to solicit community responseThe Chatham community has six library facilities within a 5 mile radius to frequentAuburn Park - 76Th RacineAvalon Park - 81st Stony IslandWoodson Regional - 95th HalstedGrand Crossing- 73rd South Chicago (Fall 2010)Kennedy King College- 64th halsted (no book checkout)Chicago State University - 95th King (no book checkout)These are the facts as well as several former CPL employees who are also Chatham residents have voiced their disapproval because of the incompetence of the current staff and safety issues.Based on the above, CAPCC needs to get out of the way and let the library process go forward so we can get a building sooner than later. I think we need to focus on a more immediate problem and figure out why with the number of libraries that serve our community why do we have failing elementary and high schools.What do you think?

Recap of Officer Thomas Wortham IV Playground Dedication Ceremony

2011-10-23T20:34:00.000-05:00

The Officer Thomas Wortham IV Playground dedication ceremony took place yesterday. The $300,000 playground, which replaced an old dilapidated playlot, has been years in the making has finally come to fruition. Mr & Mrs Thomas and Sandra Wortham led the ceremony while being supported by the Cole Park Advisory Council, Friends of the Park, presidents of Chatham community organizations and Roderick Sawyer, Alderman of the 6th ward. The large crowd of over 200 included committeeman Freddrenna Lyle, Judge John Steele, State Senator Donne Trotter, Deputy Chief of Police Eddie Johnson and Commader Eric Carter. A number of police officer attended as well as current members of the U.S. Army who served with Officer Wortham.

See photos at http://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.10150367811699551.366183.79909419550&type=3&l=f967cd9ede

Officer Thomas E Wortham IV Playlot Deidication Ceremony

2011-10-20T00:19:00.000-05:00

Saturday
October 22, 2011
10 am
Cole Park
361 E. 85th Street
312.747.6063

The Cole Park Advisory Council, community residents, and the Chicago Park District invite you to join us at the ribbon cutting and dedication ceremony celebrating the new Officer Thomas E Wortham IV Community Build Playground.

Also, the Cole Park Advisory Council is lookig for dedicated residents to assist with the next phase in the upgrade of Cole Park. If anyone is interested in joining, please see Park Superintendent Guy Morgan or any PAC member.

Become an Education Watchdog- BGA LSC Training

2011-10-20T00:09:00.000-05:00

ThursdayOctober 27,20116:30-8:30 pmSt. Columbanus School Hall7120 S. CalumetThe event will provide people with a thorough understanding of Local School Councils (how they operate, how to become an LSC member, what the roles and responsibilities of the LSC are, etc.) and school budgeting (how to obtain a budget from your local CPS school, how to compare that budget to school budgets at surrounding neighborhood schools, how to take part in the budget process, how to read the budget, etc.). Presenters at the training will include Wanda Hopkins from P.U.R.E. (Parents United for Responsible Education) and Sarah Karp from Catalyst Chicago.

For more information http://www.bettergov.org/citizen_watchdogs_of_education_training_-_south_side/

What Chatham Residents Want

2011-10-19T11:07:00.000-05:00

Over the past several weeks Chatham residents told EZ Pawn No. They told Richard Milburn Alternative High School No. These actions have caused some to feel that saying NO is counterproductive to the growth of the community. When Lakeview, Beverly, or Rodgers Park say NO its Ok. Others say Chatham residents do not know what they want and are "fickle". But what I have found is most residents want business and services that offer first class products and world class service.

So here is what I propose. Here is a partial working list that will be submitted to Roderick Sawyer, Alderman of the 6th ward.
Alderman Sawyer,As a resident of the 6th ward I would like to see the following businesses come into our ward:
Panera Bread Co. http://www.panerabread.com/about/contact/index2.php
Golden Corral http://www.goldencorral.com/
Chilpotle http://www.chipotle.com/en-US/fan-antics/talk_to_us/talk_to_us.aspx
Meijer's http://realty.meijer.com/NewStoreSiteSubmission.aspx

So what do you want to see on this list? Are you willing to let the retailers know you want them in your neighborhood?

Freakonomics Chatham Style- The Fried Chicken Dilemma

2011-10-16T14:45:00.000-05:00

Since the book Freakonomics came out a number of dilemmas and questions have been answered. Unfortunate for some it discovered cheating scandals and how drug dealers and other nefarious individuals hide assets. Well Chatham has a question that Freakonomics can answer. The fried chicken dilemma, how fried chicken stymied economic development in our community.Several years ago, many of the large chains began to come out with $1 value products as a way to get customers back into their stores and restaurants did it better than anyone else. The largest fried chicken chains began a pricing war that offered customers a deal almost everyday of the week. Kemtucky Fried Chicken(KFC) on Monday, Church's on Tuesday, Popeye's on Wednesday, and so on. These daily dollar specials lasted for quite a while and several regional chains got involved as well. Harold's Fried Chicken ad Brown's Fried Chicken got into the fray as well. Eventually, KFC, Popeyes, Brown's and Harold's raised the white flag and offered deals but got away from the $1 deals. This left Church's as the winner of the pricing war or it appeared that way. Church's has had a long and sometimes rocky past with the Southside of Chicago. They reached out to African Americans to become franchise owners on a positive note but they became the subject of an Urban Legend after that and this legend still keeps some African American customers away. Overall, the stores are nothing special, poor customer service, average product and angry customers. What keeps customers coming back? Tuesday's $.99 special, the lines are out the door, customers are angry and can get down right nasty and the staff has a nonchalant attitude. They tried to let the special go and customers did a mass exodus from the store and forced Church's to bring it back.While it sounds like a win for consumers and a win for the business, it has become a loss for the Chatham community. The Brown's store has closed as they couldn't compete, several restaurant entrepreneurs have reported that they are having difficulty obtaining financing from financial institutions because the financial institutions do not see the community supporting a fast casual restaurant because they all they see is the $.99 deal continue and it is rumored that Whole Foods passed on Chatham because of the $.99 deal and several other issues.So the $1 deal looks good for both business and the consumers but its been bad for community economic development. Sometimes cheaper is not always good. Maybe the Freakonomics team can give us some insight on this dilemma that can be used to stimulate economic development.

What to do This Weekend 10/14/2011

2011-10-14T00:06:00.000-05:00

The 2011 100 Black Men of Chicago College Sponsorship Fair
THIS SATURDAY
October 15th
9am-3pm
UIC Forum
725 W. Roosevelt Rd.

Register on the link below! STUDENTS BRING YOUR ACT RESULTS, & TRANSCRIPTS. On site interviews! Dress for success! MEN SUITS AND TIES, WOMEN BUSINESS ATTIRE!!http://www.100bmc.org/StudentParentPage.htm

Greater Chatham Alliance Community Organization Meeting
Saturday
October 15, 2011
11:00 am to 1:30 pm
St. James Lutheran Church
8001 S. Michigan

CAPCC To CPS- Richard Milburn Alternative High School Must Go!

2011-10-11T14:28:00.000-05:00

This was the message that Keith Tate, President of the Chatham Avalon Park Community Council (CAPCC) told Chicago Public School(CPS) representative Jennifer Vidis, Deputy Director of Alternative Schools. While the focus of the meeting was to be on EZ Pawn, who decided not to attend the meeting, Roderick Sawyer, Alderman of the 6th ward invited Mrs. Vidis to come out and address the community. The uproar started last month when resident living near St. Clotilde Catholic Church (http://www.stclotildechurch.com/)noticed moving trucks full of supplies unloading these goods in the former elementary school. When they asked questions, they were rudely told by St. Clotilde and Milburn representatives it was none of their business. When the regular school schedule started they saw buses unloading students. Numerous attempts by residents and community organizations to find out information about this school went unanswered and finally when Alderman Sawyer inquired it was stated it was an alternative "safe" school for student ranging from the 6-12 grades who had been expelled from Chicago Public Schools (http://www.cps.edu/) who could be reinstated if they showed improvement in their behavior. Questions arose as to why the community wasn't notified by CPS, Chicago Archdioces( http://www.archchicago.org/)and St. Clotilde parish. Also, the community had questions about the students and the reason some were expelled because they noticed the school had armed security guards.CPS and the school's principal reached out to the Alderman after the story showed up on television and newspapers. The answers CPS gave were unacceptable to the community and they decided to send Ms. Vidis out to address the community's concerns. The Chicago Archdioces and St. Clotilde parish have yet to respond to numerous inquiries. Ms. Vidis was greeted by Mr. Tate with a straight forward and direct opening stating his displeasure with CPS, Chicago Archdioces, St. Clotilde parish over this matter. Mr. Tate stated CPS and Milburn's offer to create a community advisory council was far too little and way to late because this was something that should have been handled prior to the school's opening.Ms. Vidis stated that the CPS is mandated under State law to provide these young adults an education. A decision to move Milburn from the former Holy Angel's facility, because of health and safety concerns, were known back in early July. She further stated that the Chicago Archdioces offered Milburn the St. Clotilde location. These answers just fueled the anger of the crowd.Questions and comments from the audience ranged from the lack of disclosure from the Milburn, CPS and Archdioces parties who knew Milburn had to move from the former location. Also, that there have been allegations of residents witnessing a student engaging in indecent exposure and another skipping school. Also, it was asked why other Alternative and Charter Schools in the area such as Sullivan House,Charles Houston and Gary Comer locations were not considered. Ms. Vidis stated these students were not eligible to attend these schools because they were expelled from the CPS system and these schools are considered CPS schools. Also, Milburn won a competitive bidding process to offer this type of schooling. Per Milburn's website http://milburnschools.org/ they do not operate any other schools in Illinois.Lastly, after the call to void the Milburn contract and move the school, Ms. Vidis stated she would go back and speak with CPS legal counsel about the matter and would attempt to come up with some solutions to address the community's concerns.Also, the Chicago Police Department attended the meeting to address concerns over the violence that occurred this past weekend. A call by CAPCC to have the Chicago Public Library build a 15,000 sq ft building versus a 16,500 one and a half story building was brought up again. The final topic was cadidates introductions. Kari Steele stated she is runing for Water Reclamation District Commissioner. Two candidates made it public that they were running for 34th District State Representative seat that is being vacated by Constance Howard. Elgie Sims and Sondra Wortham both stated that they are in the running for the office and they join Paul Gregoire and Richard Wooten.The only question now is will Ms. Vidis come back out to Chatham for the Greater Chatham Alliance meeting and answer questions for those residents.

Recap of Troubled Building Seminar

2011-10-10T15:41:00.000-05:00

Over 350 residents of the 5,6,7,8,17,18,20,and 21st wards came out to Carter Temple this past Saturday morning. Alderman Roderick Sawyer in conjunction with the 3rd & 6th district Chicago Police Department CAPS departments held a Troubled Building Seminar. The seminar was presented in response to the growing number of complaints that various city agencies and alderman are receiving regarding vacant buildings. Howard Brookins Jr, Alderman of the 21st ward urged residents to stop running and work to rebuild their communities. Willie Cochran, Alderman of the 20th ward was scheduled to attend but could not due to a family emergency. The central theme of the seminar was correcting issues with troubled buildings is a process and various agencies can and sometimes will have to get involved. Also, the process can lead up to long court battles so patience is necessary. Speakers included Chicago Police Department Commander Christopher Fletcher, Cynthia Vance, Chicago Police Department Leuitentant- Troubled Building Unit, City of Chicago Department of Buildings, Law, and Strategic Task Force, Jimmy Stewart, Chicago Housing Authority, Ronald Holt, Director of CAPS program, Linda Hanpton, Streets and Sanitation 6th ward and Chicago Fire Department.The seminar also included representatives from South Central Community Services, Neighborhood Housing Services,Chicago Police Department Gang Unit, Chicago Housing Authority, ADT Security Services and City of Chicago Emergency Management services Department. The seminar rapped up with attendees treated to a breakfast supplied by The Greater Chatham Alliance Community organization.
If you have problems with an open and vacant building, call 311 and file a repor. Also, some other resources are Chicago Police Department Troubled Building Unit TroubledBuildings@chicagopolice.org. If you have an issue with Section 8 call 1-800-533-0441 or contact JJstewart@thecha.org The event was well planned and attended hats off to 3rd & 6th district CAPS staff and the 6th ward alderman's office. My only question was where were the other Alderman, especially Alderman Beale of the 9th ward who has representatives telling 6th ward residents south of 87th , he is the new sheriff in town. Hopefully, they will stay in the 6th ward because if they move to the 9th they will get what the 9th ward has gotten, a former "rock star" state representative and a do nothing Alderman.

Pictures at http://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.10150351649264551.363135.79909419550&type=3&l=e6677ba48b

Where is This Business Located

2011-10-07T15:10:00.003-05:00

Here is a picture of a former business in Chatham. Where are we?

Reminder: CAPCC Meeting on EZ Pawn- Will it be EZ?

2011-10-07T10:59:00.000-05:00

The Chatham Avalon Park Community Council will have their monthly meeting

Monday October 10

Chatham Avalon Church of God

8601 S State

The topic of discussion will be EZ Pawn. Is the community in favor of EZ Pawn? Should a letter be sent to Alderman Roderick Sawyer rejecting the proposal? All this ans more will be discussed at the meeting.

Chatham Resident Jahmal Cole Wins Chicago Ideas Week Award

2011-10-05T23:28:00.000-05:00

October 10-16, 2011, Chicago Ideas Week (CIW) will bring the world’s top speakers together with Chicago’s best thinkers to create an ecosystem of innovation, exploration, and intellectual recreation.The Idea Awards were created to acknowledge some of Chicago’s most innovative individuals, as distinguished by their use of new ideas and the positive, measurable impact they have in the community.Idea Awards: FellowsCIW Fellows are talented individuals under the age of 35 who are making a difference in their community or industry through the positive force of their energy and efforts, and who are distinguishing themselves through innovation. These are the leaders and change agents of the world tomorrow, who are making a huge impact on their local and regional communities today.On Monday October 10, 2011. A Chatham resident will be awarded the CIW Fellows award.Jahmal Cole: Founder, Role Model MovementJahmal Cole is an author, speaker and community leader. One of Cole’s first inspirations toward public service came from his father, who ran for City Council. Today, Jahmal is using that inspiration to service and mentor inner city youth. As the founder of Role Model Movement, a not-for-profit branch of Role Model Publishing, Cole strives to make the community a better place to live as he inspires and helps teens and young adults to rise above their present circumstances and upbringing.For more information on CIW http://www.chicagoideas.com/For more information on the Role Model Movement http://rolemodelmovement.com/

Chicago Public Schools Denies Special Need Children Busing but Offers Citywide Busing to Milburn Alternative School Students

2011-10-05T02:33:00.001-05:00

The Chicago Public Schools (CPS)http://www.cps.edu/ has a slogan of "Children First" but my recent experience has been if you are the "right" student. Recently, here in Chatham CPS stuck a new alternative school in our community without any regards to the feeling of the community, elected officials or parents of those students. The Richard Milburn Alternative School students receive busing and armed security services, provided by CPS, from their homes throughout the City of Chicago to the school located here in Chatham. So I'm perplexed as to why my child busing service is being denied by CPS.My child, a special needs student, attends Gwendolyn Brooks College Prep http://www.brookscollegeprep.org/and the transition from elemetary to high school has been anything but smooth. Although, we thought we were going to be prepared for the first day by submitting our busing forms early because we knew there would be a process because my daughter attends a therapeutic recreation after school program. That proved to be a bad strategy as the office staff at Brooks did not send all the required forms to student transportation in a timely manner although they had they received the forms in a timely manner. The form that did not make it was the request for Chicago Park District "Park Kids" program. The Chicago Public Schools are suppose to drop off students to an "approved' afterschool Chicago Park District program. For whatever the reason, Chicago Park District does not start this program to coincide with the opening of the regular school year. So for several weeks there is no after school program. My adventure with Chicago Public School central office bureaucratic ineffective and incompetent individuals begins. After having to make calls to the student transportation unit to get the using information I was told they never received the form, then I contacted the school and they assured me they sent it and after going back and forth with this over several days we asked the school to resubmit the form. It took several days for the form to make it from the school to central office. The approval process took several days and we were directed to contact the bus company Sunrise Bus Service http://www.sunrisebus.com/. Calls to the bus company proved unfruitful and finally a call back to the central office someone finally decided to do their job and looked into their database and found that they sent the bus company an approval with the wrong school name on it. So for one week the bus company had an approval for the right student with the wrong school. This could be forgivable but Sunrise Bus doesn't serve the school listed. Thinking I'm at the end of this adventure a bomb is dropped on me, the bus company states they cannot drop my daughter off at the park unless they receive a letter from the school ensuring that she can safely be placed on another bus that would be going towards the park.This is where part two of my adventure begins as we go back between the school, bus company and the student transportation unit playing "Who's on First" as no one knew who was suppose to do what. Finally, after a rude and unprofessional conversation with Sunrise Bus, we called student transportation and was transferred to the general manager of the unit who stated my daughters application was denied because there was no bus leaving her school that passed the park. When I stated that was incorrect as there are two buses that pass the park, his story changed and stated that it was off her route. I explained that for the pass 3 years she has received busing to the park from CPS with the understanding it was "off her route". Again, his story changed and he became rude, indignant and unprofessional and stated he was following "policy". I have since called and tweeted CPS and have been referred to several clueless, incompetent individuals in Special Education and Operations. My email to Patricia Taylor, Chief Operating Officer has yet to be answered. So the bottom line here is if your child acts a damn fool and gets kicked out like the students at Milburn, who get busing and armed security guards, you can get attention from CPS. If you teach your child respect and manners and send them to school to learn they get shafted. Thanks CPS for making "Children First". I guess my child is not the right kind of child.

79th Street- A Great Street That is Not Looking Great

2011-10-04T00:29:00.000-05:00

Yes, 79th Street is a great street. It's one of the longest continuous running streets in Cook County. The 79th street CTA route has the highest ridership in the city because it has the greatest number of north/south connections than any other route. The intersection of 79th State Street has over 100,000 people pass through on a daily basis. If you go west to Halsted, you will run into the Salaam Restaurant, a beautiful granite facade building and if you go east, you run into the Chatham Executive Building, a newly renovated building and one of the "greenest" buildings on the southside. But, there is one problem, both buildings are empty. The great 79th street once was the home of grocery stores such as Dominicks and A&P, car dealerships such as RL Dukes Cadillac and entertainment venues such as Perv's Place and the Rhodes Theater. Fast Forward to 2011 and the car dealership and theater are gone, Dominick's has been replaced by a limited option grocery store Save a Lot and Perv's Place has a new name and lost its once famous luster. When 79th street is mentioned in the press its usually is not in a positive light. Most of the time it's about senseless violence that is taxing the Chicago Police Department 6th district and failing business. This has become a point of frustration with residents who are demanding radical change along 79th. The new mayor Rahm Emmanuel comes to Chatham but avoids 79th Street, like the plague, after receiving a not so warm welcome during his campaign.The question is how radical of a change is needed, some argue that older storefronts need to be torn down and replaced with national fast casual dining spots such as Panera Bread, Qdoba, etc. They believe that this will make the community more marketable to northsiders of all nationalities, who currently will not come into or consider moving to Chatham. Others believe that we need to recruit more small businesses that offer a variety of product and services. Currently, Roderick Sawyer, Alderman of the 6th ward is focusing his efforts on building a transit base economy that will cater to the 100,000 plus individuals at the 79th State Street intersection and others who ride public transportation, through the Chatham community.
Whatever the plan, we will need infrastruture improvements such as new lighting, dedicated cleaning crews to keep current businesses such as Chatham Food Market and Pride Cleaners and attract new business such as the new Whitney Young Library. The future of Chatham will be depend on the rejuvenation of 79th Street. Mayor Emmanuel we would love to walk 79th street with you, so you can see it through our eyes.What would you like to see change to make 79th Street a great street again?

Important Events for the Week 10/3/11

2011-10-03T09:32:00.000-05:00

Troubled Building Educational Seminar/Breakfast
Saturday,
October 8
8:30am- 12:30pm
Carter Temple CME Church
7841 S. Wabash
Some issue to be addressed "vacant/open, drug & gang, nuisance, absentee landlords, slumlord, etc"Vendors attending: depart of buildings, gang unit, vacant build div., animal care & control, cha, family and support svc, law dept, strategic task force, troubled build unit, state att., str and san. and othersfor more info call 773-635-0006 or 312-747-7004

Illinois Service Federal Shredfest
October 8, 2011
10:00 am-1:00 pm
Illinois Service Federal
8700 S King Drive
www.isfbank.com

Upcoming Community Organization Meetings for October

2011-10-01T13:09:00.000-05:00

Here is a partial listing of upcoming community meetings

Park Manor Neighbors
Monday
October 3, 2011
6:30 to 8:30 pm
Northern Trust Bank
7800 S State Street
Topics: Community Issues

Chatham Avalon Park Community Council
Monday
October 10, 2011
6:30 to 8:30 pm
Northern Trust Bank
7800 S. State Street
Topic: Followup on EZ Pawn Proposal

Greater Chatham Alliance Community Organization
Saturday
October 15, 2011
11:00 am to 1:30 pm
St. James Lutheran Church
8001 S. Michigan
Topic: St. Clotilde Alternative School

EZ Pawn Finds Chatham Residents Are Not EZ

2011-09-30T09:42:00.000-05:00

On Wednesday, September 28, 2011 the Chatham Avalon Park Community Council(CAPCC) held a community meeting, at Seaway Bank,to discuss a proposal by EZ Corp to open an EZPawn Store in the former Chatham Pancake House location. The building at 700 E. 87th street was the home of The Original Pancake House, Chatham Pancake House and most recently Yonni's Chicken and Waffles. The latter closed because of issues with the IRS but the building was still owned by Chatham Pancake House owner Leslie Noel, who moved the restaurant to Country Club Hills seeking greener pastures but found nothing but mud, he had to get a loan from Country Club Hills to pay his light bill, that angered residents, only to go under later.

EZ Corp (www.ezcorp.com)is a publicly traded company(Nasdaq EZPW) operates pawn shops in 11 states under the EZPawn(www.ezpawn.com) banner and is headquartered in Austin Texas. The representative stated that they are a community based financial institution that provides small loans to individuals who do not meet bank and other financial institution standards. They also stated that they are different than the local mom and pop pawn shops as they have bright clean stores versus seedy dark junky stores of local operators. These individuals pledge collateral that is held by EZPawn ad if they default EZPawn is allowed to sell the collateral for market value. The representatives of EZPawn attempted to paint a picture that they were a normal retail store and further attempted to patronize the audience by stating they give money back to the community through a foundation. But the audience of over 100 Chatham residents were buying what EZPawn was selling. Overall, residents felt that the store would halt additional stores from considering moving to 87th and increase crime in the community. Also, it was brought up that there was already a pawn shop in the area Chatham Jewelry and Loan. EZPawn attempted to make assurance but the residents did not budge. Overall the residents voted unanimously to reject the proposal and asked CAPCC to send a letter to Roderick Sawyer, Alderman of the 6th ward of their decision. But, the story wasn't over as EZPawn came back to state that they are also considering other locations in Chatham. A number of residents were uneasy about this statement and several voiced a concern that Alderman Roderick Sawyer may overrule their decision and approve the proposal. This concern referenced the Alderman's decision to allow a $4 million renovation of the Shell gas station to go forward despite a small group of dissenting residents.

Also, several residents took it upon themselves to apologize to the EZPawn representatives for the community having a negative feeling towards their business and several others did their "begging preacher" pitch to the EZpawn representatives.At the time, Alderman Sawyer has not made a statement on the matter. EZPawn corporate office was contacted but has not responded.

Concerned Citizens of Chatham

Owe Chicago money? City could take tax refund under proposal: Is It Fair?

RIP Whitney Houston 1963-2012

6th Ward Public Transportation Forum

Alderman Sawyer Response to Remap

Externship With Federal Justice Sharon Coleman

Upcoming 6th Ward Community Organization Meetings

GCA Meeting: Alderman Michelle Harris and Anthony Beale Sold Me Out

Is the New Whitney Young Library Project Dead

The Walmart Era Has Begun on the Southside

The New 6/8/9th Ward

Alderman Sawyer Votes No on Remap

Will a Remap Compromise Make Anyone Happy: Not in the 6th Ward

Moratoriums: Do they work and do we need them

Please attend the public ward remap hearing tomorrow

Is it Time to Privatize the Chicago Public Library System

Public Hearings on Ward Remapping

Alderman Sawyer's Position on Library Hours Reduction

Will We See The Return of Chatham-Avalon Park?

2012-The Rise of Chatham

Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays to all

The Opening of Garrett Popcorn Shops Chatham Store

We Salute You Corey Ankum- A Chatham Hero

Garrett Popcorn Opens Chatham Store

Is There Anything Wrong With Politicians Meeting With Alleged Gang Leaders

Chesterfield Community Council Toy Drive

Ready to Teach Program

Are Halfway Houses Welcome in Chatham

Are You The Next: Entrepreneurial Idol

6th Ward Committeeman's Race: Don't Get it Twisted

Mortgage Banking Operations Job Fair

Is it Last Call for Alcohol in Chatham

The Internet: A Gangsta's Paradise

An Open Letter to Alderman Sawyer- What Chatham Residents Want

Tuition- Free EMT Training for Women

Former Alderman Freddrenna Lyle Named Cook County Circuit Court Judge

Chicago Public Schools: The Lack of a Restorative Justice System Causes Kaos

Candlelight Vigil for Ben "Benji" Wilson

The Bridge to Chatham or Nowhere: Who Will Decide

Transit Chicago: Sawyer Vs Claypool- Who Will Win

Alderman Sawyer Votes to Approve 2012 Chicago Budget

Letter to the Mayor: I Know How to Dial 311

Help the Ben Wilson Documentary

Upcoming 6th Ward Community Meetings

Who Stole the Planters in Front of Josephine's ?

Veterans Day 11.11.11- We Salute the Unsung Heros

Harlan Community Academy High School Student Council Annual Coat & Food Drive

When Does the Madness Stop

ALDERMAN SAWYER RESPONDS TO THE WEEKEND VIOLENCE IN THE 6TH WARD

ALDERMAN SAWYER RESPONDS TO THE WEEKEND VIOLENCE IN THE 6THWARD

Where to Find "Da Bears" in Chatham

Is it Time For Zero Tolerance

Plumbers Local 130 (Cook County)- Accepting Apprenticeship Applications 11/3/2011-1/26/2012

Remember to Fall Back - Change your Clock and Change Your Batteries

Save The Date: November 10, 2011 Important Meetings

Calling All 8-17 Yr Olds- Become a Tuskegee Airmen Young Eagle

Black World Cinema- Black Power Mixtape

Why It's Time for Chatham to Reach Out and Make Friends With Republicans.

Energy Community Outreach Day

Alderman Sawyer Supports Maintaining Library Funding in the 2012 Budget

Career Opportunities

Upcoming Community Meetings

In Need of DSLR Camera Lens

Did Walgreen's Pull a Fast One on the First Lady?

Safe Halloween Options

Got Drugs? Turn in Your Unused or Expired Medication This Saturday

Did Chatham Blow the Opportunity to Get a New Library

Did Chatham Blow the Opportunity For a New Library?

Recap of Officer Thomas Wortham IV Playground Dedication Ceremony

Officer Thomas E Wortham IV Playlot Deidication Ceremony

Become an Education Watchdog- BGA LSC Training

What Chatham Residents Want

Freakonomics Chatham Style- The Fried Chicken Dilemma

What to do This Weekend 10/14/2011

CAPCC To CPS- Richard Milburn Alternative High School Must Go!

Recap of Troubled Building Seminar

Where is This Business Located

Reminder: CAPCC Meeting on EZ Pawn- Will it be EZ?

Chatham Resident Jahmal Cole Wins Chicago Ideas Week Award

Chicago Public Schools Denies Special Need Children Busing but Offers Citywide Busing to Milburn Alternative School Students

ALDERMAN SAWYER RESPONDS TO THE WEEKEND VIOLENCE IN THE 6^THWARD