A South Loop mini-library

As Americans fall further and further behind in reading, the public library becomes of greater importance

03/31/2010

While on North Michigan Avenue recently, I looked up to see "Chicago Public Library" posted outside of the Water Tower Water Works building. As my bibliophile heart quivered - and with my public library card in my pocket beside my CTA card - I entered.
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Just like a handywoman

03/24/2010

I wish I had a nickel for every South Looper who asks me every week to recommend a handyman. "My handyman retired," they lament. "I need someone now!"
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Fighting for UIC

We want the State of Illinois to pay the $500 million that it owes us. And make higher education a higher priority.

03/17/2010

Last week, two hundred of us from the University of Illinois-Chicago - faculty, staff, and students - went downtown to save our school.
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The principalities of the West Loop

When I am asked where I live, the answer varies because our area goes by so many different names.

03/10/2010

When my mom tells people where I live, she says Greektown. “Anybody who has been to Chicago knows where Greektown is,” she says. The area’s rich history and the fond memory of her post-prom at one of Halsted Street’s Greek restaurants probably have her imagining my lazy Sundays including trips to the Athenian Bakery for a box of melomakarona. It is also easier than telling her friends I live in the neighborhood formerly known as Chicago’s Skid Row.
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Staying vigilant on schools

One View

03/03/2010

The 3rd Ward was hit disproportionately hard this year with actions that would have impacted five schools, with a combined attendance of more than 1800 students.
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The businesses need us

We don't realize we are creating a depression outside our doors.

02/24/2010

Walking through the neighborhood recently with one of my pals, the conversation turned to one of our most recurring topics: How come there aren’t more businesses in the neighborhoods that are thriving? We seem to have the density now, right?
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The end of the Ickes Homes

One View

02/24/2010

From my purely unscientific and untrained perspective, when I first laid eyes upon the Harold Ickes Homes in 2006 – the year that we arrived in Chicago – it was apparent to me that I was looking at a “dead man walking.” I gave the place three years before it would meet its end.
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How to reform county government

02/17/2010

The epic spree of corruption exposed in Illinois in recent years have us confirmed as national laughingstock.
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From one craze to another

From running and yoga to Zumba and hockey.

02/10/2010

Last Monday was filled with work and community meetings. As the fourth one wrapped up after 7:00 p.m., I was ready to wind down. That would typically include my couch, Chicago Tonight on the television and a cup of vanilla tea (though Monday deserved a glass of wine).
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Roosevelt Square realities

All involved in this project should be realistic and address the community like adults, rather than posturing and saber rattling.

02/10/2010