* Cobblers Mall Under Gang Rule - UPDATED - It's Fixed

Not the first time the 'Broken Heart' had to help this building remove the tags.

The now vacant Cobblers Mall at 1328-32 West Morse Avenue, (Morse Avenue and Wayne Street, aka - Murder World) has fallen into the hands of the local choir boys. One of the new owners has known about it for a while now. My guess is he doesn't want or doesn't have the ability to remove the tags.

The property was built about 100 years ago as the Morse Theater and was originally used for silent films and vaudeville.?

It also housed a family shoe repair business.

Then the building was bought by a Special Service Area tax #24 commissioner Maryann Carrero. A rubber stamp commissioner who profited by being a specially selected commissioner. She then rented out a space to DevCorp North, the sole serve provider for Special Service Area tax 19 and 24.

As quick as Maryann bought the building, she sold it.

Now it stands as a another vacant building on the street the locals call the "hell-hole." A building the neighborhood choir boys have marked as theirs. Anyone can see from the above photograph. It seems like a matter of time before this building becomes another boarded up wasteland on Morse. First the graffiti, then the plywood, then the crumbling bricks. Soon it will be like the Coe hole.

I asked and I gave the one of the owners plenty of time to have this graffiti removed. After-all, one of the principles in the new 1328-32 West Morse Avenue project, Andy McGee, has close ties to that so-called 'Mr. Fix it' who's running for Alderman.

Being a good Alderman requires doing the little things fast. Like getting gang graffiti removal. This is a basic 'quality of life' issue. O.K., it's more serious than that. It's a crime (gangs,guns and drugs) issue too.

This was the 'other guys' chance to shine. After all the blunders he's been making lately. He could have helped his supporter and done a good thing for the neighborhood - all in one motion.

But as of today, it looks like he couldn't do it. It just hasn't happened.

Can't Wait Anymore:

Even though it's not my building, I took the matter in my own hands. Instead of asking the building owner, again, (which didn't work) I made a contact with Matt Smith at the downtown Streets and Sanitation Department yesterday. I was told by Mr. Smith this gang graffiti removal will take place real quickly. Maybe as soon as this weekend. Let's hope the second times a charm.

Blognotes: I'm heading up to Baraboo Hiils for a motorcycle event this weekend. This involves competition and physical exertion. Plus, a little skill and a little luck. I know, this stinks of athletics, but, the leaves on the trees are changing into their fall colors, this should not only be a "physical exertion" weekend, it will be a very scenic weekend also. Of course, I'll take some photographs.

If you're bored, I've included a few past graffiti and graffiti removal stories below. There's lot's more than these four. You just have to dig through the archives.

Graffiti on Tree:

Family Dollar:

Field School Playground:

Here today 1328-32 West Morse Avenue.....

....gone tomorrow.

Blognotes #2: - Friday, 10:30 a.m. This just in from the downtown offices of Streets and Sanitation:

Hi Craig:

"So you know, we completed that gang graffiti removal this morning. Thanks for the heads up and have a fun weekend."

Matt Smith

* Terrance Palmer Memorial Roll Call

Ceasefire held a circle prayer for Terrence Palmer tonight, the young man who was killed on Birchwood last Saturday morning.

In attendance:
Myself (Julie Seagraves), Craig Gernhardt, Joe Moore, Sarah Jane Knoy (ONE), Jeffrey Orr, Vernandez Jones and his Ceasefire crew, plus the pastor from the Baptist Church in Evanston where services will be held for Terrence Palmer, and Sarah Jane's clergy assistant.

On our way to the event, down the block from the prayer circle, we encountered Chris Adams collecting signatures. He did not attend the vigil, but Craig Gernhardt and I got photos. Joe's comment, "He does exist. I thought he was just a website!"

As we gathered to pray, one block away were Palmer's friends. Craig asked Vern why we weren't inviting his friends. He pointed out that it would seem that would be part of the mission and they should be included. Vern agreed but said that was difficult sometimes, especially when there are authority figures around. Sarah Jane's clergy assistant went to talk to the kids. She came back followed by 7 kids who joined hands with us to pray for the deceased.

They were clearly moved, we were clearly moved. Thanks to Craig, the circle was complete and we prayed as an all-inclusive community.

The clergy assistant made sure the kids knew when the funeral was and advised them not to wear their hats - it's not appreciated at the churches.

Services tomorrow at the Baptist Church in Evanston on Simpson and Emerson. 7 pm.

After the event I asked Craig Gernhardt if he was running for alderman or not with all the gossip going on. He said he'll make his decision and announce his aspirations after the general election is over in November."

You heard it here first - on the 'Broken Heart'....

Report by: Julie Seagraves

* Gordon Pimps Lakefront for Political Gain

His vote YES lakefront protection referendum stinks of politics and has nothing to do with saving the lakefront!
Rogers Park residents, along with aldermanic candidate Don Gordon and his family, collected nearly 1,000 signatures this summer to put a lakefront protection referendum on the November 7th ballot - for the entire 49th Ward. This advisory measure is intended to guide our elected officials in their decisions on issues and policy about the lakefront.

We need improved lakefront facilities, new bike and walking paths, and other improvements, not massive construction on or in the lake! Vote YES to protect the lakefront on November 7. A series of community forums is planned for October to discuss the referendum. We will let you know when dates and locations are confirmed.

The November 2006 Lakefront Protection Referendum: Should the City of Chicago, State of Illinois, and Federal Government prohibit any lakefront development from Hollywood Avenue to Evanston which includes extension of Lake Shore Drive or establishment of any other roadways, marinas or harbors, housing, major landfill, commercial development?

In November of 2004 residents placed a similar referendum on the ballot in the 10 lakefront precincts of the 49th Ward. An overwhelming 88.3% of voters said no to an extension of Lake Shore Drive and Broadways, marinas, housing or commercial structures as part of any lakefront expansion from Hollywood Avenue to Evanston.

Still, the next day, Alderman Moore was quoted in the Chicago Tribune saying he would keep his mind open to marina or commercial building proposals. "I would want to see if it would benefit my community," he said, apparently not believing that we know what is best for ourselves! In public meetings he derided the vote saying that it was only 10 precincts.

In 2005, the Chicago Park District proposed a harbor near Loyola University. Moore initially denied any knowledge of it. Over 400 residents packed a community meeting where State Rep. Harry Osterman spoke for voters. He told park officials, It's a stupid plan. Yet, even as the crowd jeered, Moore said, We should hear them out.

We know from our petition efforts that voters all across this ward love the lakefront as dearly as those who live right on it. This is NOT a NIMBY (Not In My Backyard) issue. On November 7th we will all have a chance to be heard.

Blognotes: First off I want to say Gordon must be asleep at the wheel. Last year, Gordon was no-where to be found when it came to the possible marina in Loyola Park. It was Jim Ginderske who went down to South Shore and asked the officials for a meeting up north. Even James will tell you that. Where was Rogers Park Conservancy leadership?

Afterwards, Jim reported back to the community here on the 'Broken Heart,' as you noticed in the above link.

After the meeting Gordon and Alderman Moore sent out the fancy - take credit press releases. Both men sent me a copy. In Gordons press release, he said, "I'm glad to tell everyone that both Rob Rejman and Chris Gent have agreed to work with the Conservancy in our effort next February to sponsor a series of forums in our community." But February passed, and the community didn't see any forums. Another empty promise by Gordon. Another commitment left by the wayside, Gordon style. Now Gordon wants to pimp the lakefront again, this time for his own political gain.

Blognotes #2: I forgot to mention, Fran Tobin had his view on the matter a month after the dust settled. Later Fran and Anne (Sullivan) had a little dispute over the "save our lakefront" name. No word on the name fight out-come.

* Cease-Fire Responds To Shooting

Hello Craig,

As you may have heard, a young man was fatally shot in our community at about 1:15 am Saturday, September 23rd.

The victim’s name was Terrance Palmer. Our thoughts and prayers go out to his family. The incident is under investigation and no one was in custody when I spoke with the 24th District Monday afternoon.

The Rogers Park Cease-Fire is planning a vigil for Wednesday September 27th at 6pm. We will meet at the corner of Seeley and Birchwood, where the shooting occurred.

Thank you.

In peace,

Sarah Jane Knoy
Executive Director ONE/ Rogers Park Cease Fire
773-510-2682

* Ginderske Calls Adams A Shill For Wal-Mart

Hold on, some important news is coming in. We have a couple of candidates going at 'it' - over who Wal-Mart is backing.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
CONTACT: Francis Scudellari
Campaign Manager, Ginderske 2007
773-338-3643 campaign office
773-718-3434
francis@jimgrp.com
Jim Ginderske calls for Disclosure of Candidate's Wal-Mart Ties

September 25, 2006-Chicago, Il - Jim Ginderske, reform candidate for 49th ward Alderman, announced today that candidate Chris Adams is the target of a complaint with the City of Chicago Board of Ethics, demanding that he disclose his ties to Wal-Mart. Chris Adams is a former employee, and his wife Tina-Marie Adams a Senior Vice-President, at Hill & Knowlton. H&K is a multinational public relations firm for Wal-Mart. It is also competing for a $200 million advertising contract with Wal-Mart.

"The special interests in Washington and Arkansas should take their battles elsewhere," Ginderske demanded. "Adams and Moore want to hold a referendum on the big box ordinance, at the expense of serving Rogers Park residents, who are desperately in need of quality healthcare, safe housing, and crime prevention."

For 16 years Joe Moore has served irresponsible landlords and developers at the expense of the public good. He has disguised this harmful local agenda by donning a "progressive" mask on national issues. The needs of the 49th ward are too great to allow this election to be hijacked by outside forces. Ginderske 2007 will continue to address the real issues of the campaign and demand that our community's best interests are served.

Ginderske demands that Adams fully disclose all past and present connections to Wal-Mart.
# # #
Let the name calling begin. If the self proclaimed Jimmy Carter democrat wants, he can respond to Nico's mom and she can post the response here. If the other guy wants to have one of his stooges reply because he doesn't have a clue what's going on, have at it.

Should Wal-Mart be allowed to use Chris Adams as a shill, as Ginderske claims?

* Female Beaten in Front Of Heartland Cafe

Offers Bounty for the Perps Arrest & Conviction:

On Friday September 16th, 2006, a 24 year old female was minding her own business casually walking in front of the Heartland Cafe when a young black male around 20 years old grabbed her for no reason.

When she turned around, the male yelled at her. She yelled back at him not to touch her. He in return, took a boxing stance, then cold-cocked (punched) her in the face for no reason. Then the offender fled.

As a result, the victim's jaw was broken in two places and will be wired shut for 6 to 8 weeks. She has no insurance to cover the medical bills. She suffers from migraine headaches. She isn't able to work either.

Because our leader Alderman Moore won't do anything but make phoney political speeches proclaiming crime is down, the victim is offering a $500 dollar reward for the information leading to the arrest and conviction of this thug.

Blognotes: No word yet if this will be classified as a gooning?

Info number: Flyers are being posted around the neighborhood. If you really want to help make this neighborhood safe or are just hungry to earn $500 bucks - please help and get this low-life criminal off the streets. Call (773)-512-4777. If the leaders of the ward won't do anything, the citizens will.

* Man Beaten - Then Hit by Car

Updated by Julie:
A 43-year-old man was taken to St. Francis Hospital in Evanston Friday night, after being beaten and subsequently run over by a car as he lay in the street.

According to police, at approximately 10:30 pm on Friday night, witnesses reported a disturbance on the 1300 block of West Estes. They observed three males and one female in an altercation with the victim.

Witnesses told police the offenders repeatedly struck the victim’s head against the steel garbage dumpster. They then observed a car traveling eastbound on Estes at a high rate of speed, run over the victim who was lying in the street.

The vehicle, a white or gray Oldsmobile with a male driver, did not stop.

The hit-and run appeared unconnected to the beating, as the offenders were still on the scene.

The victim is in critical condition. Area 3 is investigating the incident.

No word yet if this will be classified as a gooning?

* Boy Shot in the Back - Then Dies on Sidewalk

Over on the Howard Hell Hole Julie tells us a "real nice kid" got gunned down Saturday morning while the neighbors just looked away and minded their own business.

Translation - Someone doesn't have enough money, yet is hunting for dope - then a choir boy gets shot in the back at 1 a.m. in the morning, plus, someone heard the whole thing, but there are no witnesses.

* Alderman Moore - PETA Needs A Resolution

"We are in the midst right now of contacting Six Flags about the cockroach-eating contest. We're asking them to cancel this gratuitously cruel practice."
PETA spokeswoman Jackie Vergerio.
*******
Have no fear PETA - You don't have to worry. Hey Terminix Man, if your thinking of fighting this, you don't stand a chance buddy.

When it comes to cruel and inbug practices, (or just a good story in the media) you can count on Alderman Moore to be there to save the day for PETA. He did it once, he can do it again.

Don't worry you defenseless cockroaches. I smell a resolution brewing on your behalf. Let me get the ball rolling.

Whereas - Cockroaches never hurt anyone,

Whereas - Cockroaches only come out in the dark,

Whereas - Cockroaches have been around since earth cooled,

Whereas - Cockroaches serve a purpose in eating rotting food that's been left out for hours,

Whereas - Six Flags Great America, (like those nasty big boxes) the big bad corporate giant is capitalizing on the poor cockroach by staging a cockroach eating contest,

Whereas - Cockroaches are part of the fabric of a badly managed, rundown building - owned by a slumlord like my campaign contributing buddy Jay Johnson owns,

Therefore - Cockroaches must not be eaten for entertainment purposes by large cooperate giants and saved for the slum properties in which they so love to exist.

So, here be it, On this day, the 24th, the month of September, in the year of 2006 - with the absolute power vested in me as 49th ward Alderman in the City of Chicago, of the county of Cook - I Joe "No Foie Gras" Moore, now bug rights activist, champion of the orthopterous insect, declare the cockroach (kok~roh) off-limits for eating contests.

How's that PETA? Now, one more thing, don't forget the check, payable to the Cockroaches for Joe Moore.

Blognotes:
- Warning -
This is just a lighthearted parody resolution. Any likeness to Alderman Moore's real life - time and tax dollar wasting resolutions - like his quacky 'Save the Ducks' campaign is strictly coincidental.

* Cyclist Asks The 'Broken Heart' For Help

Hi Craig,

What I am asking is for you to use your blog today to raise awareness for all us cyclists - before one of us gets hurt or killed.

Please see the pot hole on bike path at Morse and Lakefront as that is what my buddy hit on his roller blades earlier this summer. Just look at the picture of his mangled face. Welcome to Rogers Park, now lets go to the emergency room.

It is a 6 - 8 foot long crater with yellow paint around it for as long as I can remember.

How long before this happens in Rogers Park?

Every day a truck loads of dry wall and concrete fly down our street along with 20 +semi's and another 15 or so buses. Often originating from West Bound Ridge or traveling East Bound turning North on to Ridge.

In meetings long, long ago, I was asked to sit on the Morse Ave. Streetscape committee (you were there) one recommendation that I made was a bike lane be painted on Morse from Ravenswood to the Lake. The attachment is from 2003 pre Morse Streetscape meetings. Please notice that no mention of a bike lane is included in the project. Was my idea rejected?

From the 2006 map you can see one is planned for Morse Ave. and this was added after those meetings (maybe it was me?). I did gather a petition at the 2004 MANA pot luck with 200 pro bike lane signatures.

At the last Caps Meeting and other civic meetings attended in the past years I have suggested some bike lanes be painted in our ward (how much could that cost).

Now I am asking for your readers help in educating the citizens of Rogers Park to the rules of the road. This is the only place things get quick attention.

Something like Kevin did with CAPS on Friday, except no roll call or speeches. Perhaps coordinated with one of the walks.

All literature is free to any one via this site. Something Caps might help coordinate but I turn to Morse Hell Hole to get the ball rolling.

Cathy H. response was that she cycled and knows the dangers and attitudes of the Rogers Park drivers. Then suggested we not spend any time or money on this issue and that the bike child chariot that I use should be illegal. WTF all hail CH and no ice cream for the Kids. The laws are in place and I am in compliance.

The cost of paint, labor and signage is less than any one of the flower pots that people argued over at the streetscape.

Did not you say something about those? Much less than the light poles or single banners fitted to those light poles.

Have a great week end,

A concerned bicyclist

* Alderman's Slumlord Pal Slapped With Lawsuit

"We know for sure that Jay Johnson knew they had no electricity," said Steven Levin, the victims' attorney.

The Ramirez and the Ramos family are suing Alderman Moore's 49th ward zoning and land use committee member and frequent campaign contributor Jay Johnson and his management company for the deadly fire that killed six children earlier this month.. After day's of trying to cover for his slumlord pal, the Alderman decided to pull a political stunt, holding public hearings into the matter.

Channel 7

Chicago Tribune

Update #1:

"No one who played a part in this tragedy will go without scrutiny," attorney Steven Levin said.

Wow, I just got done watching Channel 9's excellent coverage. Wouldn't that be something if Alderman Moore was called to testify under oath about what he knew - and when? After all, his campaign contributing buddy Jay Johnson knew they didn't have electricity. That's what the lawyer for the families said tonight.

Who else knew. Howard Area Community Center. Did someone or someone(s) there know something? How about Gale School. Did a teacher know something? The tutor knew the kids were studying by candle-light. Did she tell anyone about this? So many people to potentially testify in this case. This will be a lot different than Alderman Moore's so-called public hearing.

Will Alderman Moore continue to lie and continue to cover up for slumlord pal Jay Johnson like he did in front of the television cameras earlier this month?

Update #2:

Hitting them all. Named in the suit filed in Cook County are Marshway Limited Partnership, Marshway, L.L.C., CIG Management, L.L.C. and Jay Johnson.

Update #3:

Commonwealth Edison also was named in the suit as a respondent.

Steven Levin said the family believed there was a mistake in the bill and said they had worked with social service agencies and the local alderman's office to resolve it.

But a ComEd spokesman said the amount owed on the bill would not have offset the shutoff, even if the family had resolved the dispute.

The million dollar question. Who told Com-Ed to shut off the power to a struggling family trying to make ends meet - with young children living inside?

* Alderman Moore and Coe Are At "It" Again

Developers fuel the campaign fire. Alderman Moore's major campaign contributor Robert Coe presented plans to build a five-story building with ground floor commercial space at 1523-35 West Howard Street to the 49th ward zoning and land use committee. (ZALUC)

Coe requested a zoning variance for unobstructed open space, since the proposed site is on a through lot, which passes from one street to another. The variance will enable him to building lot line to lot line.

Mr Coe claims he will set aside two units for affordable housing. But where have we heard that before. He loves to offer this up, then after the dust settles, he yanks them away.

For a guy who hasn't done a thing with his Coe hole on Morse Avenue in over a year, why would anyone in their right mind approve another project before the first one is finished? Campaign contributions I guess?

Here is a little track record Mr. Coe is building up. The Alderman seems to run with some very unsavory developers.

1. The near gas explosion.

2. The wall that fell over.

3. Adding to neighborhood blight.

4. Poor Public Zoning Notice

5. Neglecting Public complaints.

6. Neglecting Committeeman/ZALUC/DevCorp North Board Member complaints.

7. North of Howard Watchers has concerns.

8. What Hugh thinks.

* Adams Contributes To Republican Party

Have you all about had it with all these so-called democratic candidates that claim to be independent?

Get a load of what Thomas Westgard dug up. Here we have Chris Adams supporting a republican.

I have to agree with Thomas on a few things about Chris.

I have never seen this Chris Adams at any CAPS meetings. I should know, I've attended over 40 of them in the last 4 years.

I have never seen this Chris Adams at any community rally/march/walks. I should know, I've attended over at least 40 of these in the last 4 years too.

I have never seen this Chris Adams at any community zoning infomercials. I've lost count how many of these I've attended, but I'm sure he wasn't at any of them.

Streetscape meetings, Nope. DevCorp North's SSA and TIF meetings. Nope, hadn't seen him at these types of meetings either. His website seems to be one big fat lie after another.

I'm beginning to wonder - does this Chris Adams as a real candidate even exists - or is he a website candidate made up by the Alderman to divert votes from the other guy?

* Alderman Moore's Solution to the Homeless in Rogers Park

"If we keep rousting them during the night, it will become too inconvenient for them to be there," Alderman Moore said of the homeless.

Clearly, the Alderman is a "not in my backyard" type of guy.

* Alderman No Friend Of Business Leaders

Businesses Big and Small Suffer Under Moore's Lack of Leadership

“It’s very apparent that Joe Moore is ignoring the needs of all Chicagoans when it comes to business development and job creation,” said Jerry Roper, president of the Chicagoland Chamber of Commerce. “His message is being viewed around the country that business is not welcome in Chicago.”

*************
"We are not real thrilled with Ald. Joe Moore and how he is treating business," Colleen McShane, president of the Illinois Restaurant Association, said Tuesday.

* It's Official, Alderman Moore Runs for Re-election

Carpetbaggers Help With Petitions

Today is the start date to get petitions signed to be on the general election ballot for the Aldermandic race in 2007. And the Alderman brought out the troops. The word I'm getting back from my sources - his guys are at every EL and Metra stop.

Some paid, some patronage and some republican suburban people like the guy above?

When I asked this guy if he know much about what our Alderman did in this ward, his answer was, "Not much." So, I figured he knew what he was talking about. This carpetbagger actually knew Alderman Moore.

But what's this? Check out the back seat of our Alderman's petitioneers car. Could Alderman Moore be working with the republican party now? Has our Alderman turned to the republican party for help?

* Ringleader Out of Jail in Less than 2 years?

Last February, Morse Avenue had one of those super big busts. I called it "Operation Five and Dime", not because it was on a dollar store street, but because I thought of it as a small time operation. You know, nickel and dime stuff. Two years later, my opinion stands the same on these operations. Here's why.

Check this guy out closely. I did. This guy kept riding his bike around the perimeter of Kevin O'Neils political rally for Alderman Moore Friday night. It looked like he was stalking the crowd? Or was he the Alderman's security detail?

Back to the beginning. This big bust in February 2005 called "End of the Line" netted a bunch of arrests. The Alderman and Kevin O'Neil made a big deal out of the big bust like they did at Friday's political rally O'Neil held for the Alderman.

They passed out flyers of the arrested open air drug market salesman. That's what caught my eye. According to all written reports on these community flyers being passed out, these open air drug market salesman were to receive 2 to 20 years in prison, if convicted.


One of the quotes Alderman Moore used while doing his political grandstanding in the winter of 2005 was, "These guys will be locked up a long, long time." Really now Alderman?

The flyer you paraded out last February has a guy who looks exactly like the ringleader to "Operation End of the Line" as the above photo. Westgard calls him Big Bird. I'll call him Aaron Price. Yet, I may be wrong. Click the Hell Hole archive button.

You decide.

The alleged ringleader of a so-called major drug bust on Morse Avenue is out of the pokey in less the 2 years and back working the streets? Do these big open air drug market busts really do any good?

* Westgard Calls O'Neil... "A Emotionally Manipulative Snake "

O'Neil gives orders to the police officers during roll call while Alderman Moore watches.

I've noticed a trend lately in some old links I've been connecting. It shows Thomas Westgard has been removing dozens and dozens of comments he has made on this blog regarding various subjects. Last night in another blog post he did it again.

So, I asked Thomas why, and I got a answer. Here it is.

Westgard said....>"Here's the reason I deleted that comment, after the march: Kevin O'Neil turned red in the face and was so upset about the comment, that we agreed to delete it. Kevin's expressed feelings of violation were so intense that I had to calm him down a little - "Kevin, do you really want to have this argument, here and now, under the Morse El stop, with commuters coming and going?"

Under the circumstances, we thought that the value of that particular comment was less than the human pain Kevin expressed. Out of compassion, we told him we'd take that one comment down.

Of course, Kevin then completely manipulated the situation in bad faith, by allowing Joe Moore to give a speech to 30 police officers and around 30 other people that, given its time, place, and content, had no value other than political value. In other words, Kevin told us vociferously that the event would not be politicized, and got us to make a concession on that basis. Then he went ahead and politicized it for Joe, just as I predicted in the "offending" comment.

Would it have been impossible to say, "Joe, I just asked another candidate to depoliticize, and they agreed, and letting you give a speech now would be rank hypocrisy." Answer: yes, that is beyond Kevin's abilities. What a snake.

Since we had agreed to take down the comment, we felt obligated to honor our side of the bargain. We decided to do what we said we would - take down the comment - and move on to the next topic.

But since you've resurrected it (and presumably won't delete it even if I ask), I get to have my cake and eat it too.

Since Kevin was so emotionally manipulative and reneged in bad faith, I don't feel sorry for him in the least. Let Kevin get on here, post the text of Joe's speech, and explain why Joe had to address the officers publicly, but no other candidate needed to.

Or, he and Joe can continue to lurk in the background, thus tacitly conceding the point.

If more proof was ever needed, it is now entirely clear that CAPS 2431 is a Joe Moore reelection event. Too bad - done right, CAPS could accomplish many worthwhile things."

* CAPS Beat 2431 meeting Monday

"The operation [Morse] was intiated because of community complaints from citizens and business owners during neighborhood CAPS meetings."
Commander Rottner to Pioneer - News Star

* A Political Pep Talk

Alderman Moore Shamelessly Uses CAPS Program as a Political Tool

We all know this is a popular website with the "movers and shakers" of the 49th ward, but we didn't know how popular we were until tonight. Here's why. From what we heard, CAPS beat 2431 facilitator Kevin O'Neil got bent out of shape today at Thomas Westgard and his comment in the 'Broken Heart' about this evenings so-called safety fair at the Morse EL.

Westgard got chewed out by the Alderman's puppet Kevin O'Neil for posting on the Hell Hole. Then, without reason, Westgard tried to remove the 'in 'question' post. Why? Maybe because Thomas Westgard claimed this event was going to be political like I thought it was going to be and then got afraid to say so in public?

Lucky, I save everything. How I wish I could have seen that chew out session between Kevin and Thomas. Anyhow....

O.K., at tonight's event, the information table set up by the Morse El doorway (which Alderman Moore stood by most of the night) may have been politic free, but the evening was far from being free of a political presents.

Just look at the above photo. If this wasn't political - do you think these officers really would want to listen to the Alderman give them instructions during a staged roll call? On a Friday night no less. If these officers weren't laughing at Alderman Moore under their breathe, they weren't listening to Alderman Moore.

So, the turn-out was about twenty neighbors. Your basic CAPS meeting folks. The usual Alderman Moore cheerleaders were there. Head cheerleader Kevin O'Neil. Back-up Katy Hogan. Not-for-profit cheerleader Mary Jane Haggerty was there. Then there was the other guy and the newest guy running for Alderman. Reader Pro Gun was there. So was loyal reader RP Neighbor. That guy who owes me money named Michael Harrington was there. The usual turnout.

Plus, some guy who was watching us, I believe he was arrested once before, last February 2005 in the first Morse drug bust called "End of the line." I'll do a post on him later to see if you all concur.

Until then, as the Alderman should have told the troops he was facing in the photo, "Be careful, It's Friday night, you're in beat 2431. There is a bunch of bad guys out there."

Blognotes: Knowing how to work a crowd. This evening the "Broken Heart" was able to pass out over 50 fliers to the commuters leaving the Morse Avenue EL stop. Advertising this website to new readers helps the residents learn more about what's really going on in Rogers Park. Thanks to all who grabbed a flier. Hope you enjoy the content here on the Hell Hole. To all the regular's, a big thanks also.

* Arrested at the Block Building

Jeff-O complained.....>"man... no pictures, too many words, equals dullsville." :(
Exclusive Man in Handcuffs Photo Story for Jeff-O

All I know is this, everyone (bike patrol, foot patrol and squad car police officers), and I mean everyone (including two sergeants) was heading to the Block building at 1345 West Lunt Avenue. The time, I'm guessing around 4:45 p.m. The one being chased (we'll call him "the perp") thought he was going to get away because he musta felt he was in the safe zone at the Alderman's buddies building.

Then, when the dust finally settled, this man in the oversized white t-shirt came up, his hands behind the back in handcuffs no less, and all the police were very, very happy. Is Jeff-O?

* Tell Me Something I Don't Already Know

The Lead-up: I just got word Sandi Price at DevCorp North just received a hand-delivered letter from a messenger informing the staff and website of DevCorp North to stop campaigning for Alderman Moore because it's against the rules.

Here is the press release.
***********
49th Ward Aldermanic candidate Jim Ginderske today has notified DevCorp North, a tax exempt organization, that continued campaigning for incumbent Joe Moore is a misuse of its resources, and places the organization's tax status as a non-profit at risk.

"In a strongly-worded letter by my attorneys," Jim Ginderske says, "I have demanded that DevCorp North immediately cease and desist these campaigning activities. I have provided several specific examples of this conduct, and I am aware of other instances. The business of local community organizations is the betterment of the community, not electioneering for Joe Moore."

This measure gives DevCorp North the legal basis to operate independent of Mr. Moore’s cynical practices. Ginderske 2007 encourages all area non-profits who are receiving pressure from the Moore campaign to take heart from this new accountability. Unburdened by undue influence, they can now concentrate solely on serving our neighborhood.

Ginderske 2007 further calls upon Moore to draw a clear line between publicly funded 49th Ward services and his privately funded campaign activities. A prime example is a recent community event hosted by Alderman Moore's city office at which electioneering materials were distributed to participants.

* An alderman’s first priority is providing the services our neighborhood desperately needs, not political self-promotion. Diluting official business with such things as appeals for campaign cash is a disservice to the entire community.

Blognotes: Wow, someone's been reading the Hell-Hole and does something about it. Finally, a candidate puts his attorney to work on DevCorp North - telling them to stop being the Alderman's personal Political Action Committee (PAC). Saves me a few bucks.

Updated: ORIGINAL DOCUMENT TRANSMITTED BY EMAIL & HAND DELIVERY

Ms Sandi Price-Director of Development
DevCorp North
Re: Demand to cease and desist favoritism to a political candidate

Dear Ms Price,

Please be informed that I represent Jim Ginderske, a candidate for Alderman of the 49 th Ward. We are writing to inform you that you are engaging in illegal activity by specifically promoting the candidacy of one candidate for Alderman of the 49 th Ward, the incumbent Joe Moore, and we request that you stop.

Should you refuse to cease this favoritism, we will take steps to have the appropriate governmental agencies require you to do so. To be clear, we seek only that you treat all aldermanic candidates equally either by promoting and informing your members and the public of all campaign activities of all aldermanic candidates or none, as you wish.

I am informed that DevCorp North’s Web site recently ran a notice announcing Alderman Moore’s campaign-funded Web site www.Ward49.com (which plainly solicits campaign contributions and political activity favoring the incumbent) and DevCorp North’s Web site currently links that campaign-funded Web site along with the publicly-funded Web sites for the 40 th and 50th Ward service offices which do not politically promote the incumbent.

While we understand that it is not within your control to prevent Alderman Moore mixing his public duties and campaign activities, your response to such a cynical tactic is required either to be the promotion of all candidates equally or the promotion of none.

Likewise, DevCorp North’s Web site recently contained a news story respecting the recent Glenwood Avenue Arts Festival crediting Mr. Moore as a sponsor but not mentioning the Mr. Ginderske who was also a sponsor.

Similarly, we are informed that DevCorp North recently sent out an email promoting Alderman Moore’s Back To School Picnic which was a campaign event, paid for by campaign funds, at which political literature for Alderman Moore was distributed.

I also understand that the Ginderske campaign asked DevCorp North to equally promote a similar event, a cook-out, hosted by the Ginderske campaign and that you refused.

Again, we request that you cease and desist in this unequal treatment and we assure you that we will take adverse action if you do not.

Footnote: Gee, I didn't get this bent out of shape when DevCorp North left me off the same sponsorship list.

* If Joe REALLY Cared About Us

One Readers Opinion

In the last 4+ years Alderman Joe Moore has spent a great deal of time pushing “national” issues through the Chicago City Council. Among other things, he has sponsored the resolution against the war in Iraq, the ban on foie gras, and most recently the now failed big box amendment. Not one of these measures has had any impact, whatsoever, on the daily lives of 49th ward residents, very little impact on Chicagoans, and zip impact on Americans overall. No lives have been saved (soldiers or geese), no living conditions improved, no new jobs, no improved humane treatment of animals.

One wonders if Joe intentionally sets out to do things that will have zero impact or if he simply detests the voters and taxpayers of his ward, Chicagoans, and perhaps even all American citizens. Or, maybe he only undertakes initiatives that will lead to more campaign contributions from special interest groups so that he can keep a job in which he gets to repeatedly fail while being paid? One has to wonder given that there are some things in Chicago that do need addressing – that if examined might lead to legislation that would have a real and profound impact on peoples’ lives.

Let’s take the high price of gasoline in Chicago. At the gas station at the corner of Clark and Touhy, gas sells for $3.05/gallon. In Chesterland, Ohio, gas sells for $2.10/gallon. That’s almost a buck a gallon less. In Arlington Heights you can fill up for $2.69/gallon! How come Chicagoans are paying SO MUCH MORE?

Folks who have to drive to those lousy paying jobs (that actually pay over $10/hr) at Walmart in Niles have to pay 1/3rd more to get there than the same people who work at Walmart in Chardon, Ohio. That dollar difference can’t be in federal taxes. Could it be state and city taxes? Why doesn’t Joe take on this fight? Doesn’t he care about workers who have to drive or take public transportation? Doesn’t he care that more tax dollars taken from peoples’ pockets means that they have less for housing, food, education, entertainment, retirement savings? Doesn’t he care that higher fuel costs the Chicago Transit Authority, which, in turn, impacts riders?

While we are looking at IL and Chicago taxes – how about our property taxes? Has Joe even whispered that he’s concerned about the 50 to over 100% increase in property taxes his residents will be paying come 2007? What are Joe’s views, exactly, on these substantial increases? Is he at all concerned that moderate income home owners, young couples, and even apartment building owners will be faced with bills that many of them will have a hard time paying, if they can pay them at all? Does he care that the property tax increases may very well force residents from Chicago, into the suburbs (where, at least, they will be closer to big box stores like Walmart that offer less expensive goods), or that rental unit owners may sell and go condo?

Look at all the multi-unit buildings for sale in RP maybe they are getting out before the property tax bills hit next year.

What has Joe done for the taxpayers and voters of the 49th ward? What is ours and where is it, exactly? Joe got a big raise (which it appears that he is keeping, unlike Tom Tunney who is donating his raise to several elementary schools), and he gets to be on national TV a lot. He has over $33k in aldermanic pocket money that taxpayers also pony up (maybe this and/or campaign contributions pay his transportation and property tax bills). What have we got? Joe gets his $100+k job, benefits, car, and pocket money AND he gets to hold another job, if he wants. Does Joe have another line of business we should know about? When would he possibly find time to fit it in?

Joe does care about children (after they die, but not if they are black teenage boys in his ward, who are simply SOL) so he’s sponsoring legislation that would demand that the Chicago public school system provide free breakfast to ALL students in the first period. Leaving aside that school is supposed to be a place of learning, not a food camp, and leaving aside that not all public school students are so poor that they need the school system to provide them with sustenance, how does Joe propose that the beleaguered school system pay for this freebie meal? And what diet should be provided to these students? Eggs and bacon or something lower in cholesterol? Would we have to have special meals, as they do on airplanes, for special needs students such as diabetics, etc.? (And what is with Joe’s obsession with food?) While it is commendable for Joe to be concerned with low income students who arrive at school hungry, shouldn’t the school system’s focus be on EDUCATION so the children don’t grow up and have to work at a low paying job at Walmart? Aren’t there other avenues to provide for poor children’s nutritional needs? Is school really the place this should be addressed? Do we need more public education employees who work in non-educational capacities? Maybe Joe could take his raise and donate it to a 49th ward food bank? Or even work with one of our myriad neighborhood charitable organizations to help feed hungry children.

Maybe Joe could ask his landlord, developer, and PETA campaign contributors to instead donate funds to provide for the hungry in his ward. Or maybe he could ask these campaign contributors to donate funds for job training and adult education that would get people out of low paying jobs and into more meaningful and lucrative careers.

If Joe really cared about any of us – from the impoverished to the middle class – it seems as though he’d be focused on addressing our real world issues: taxes of all stripes, crime, education, job training, and business creation instead of alienating business, spending other people’s money like a drunken sailor, and working on silly legislation that either won’t get passed or will have zip impact if it does.

But, I think Joe hates us all – black, white, rich, poor, and everyone in between – so he doesn’t do any of these things. He just wants to dine with Hot Lips and be on TV – and get paid for it, and we can just go %$# ourselves. What do you think?

Signed,

A Screwed voter.

* Alderman Moore Flees City to Shop in Suburban Big-Box Stores

Not that you didn't al-ready hear this from the 'Broken Heart' first - Now one of the high-class economic journals is re-porting what this blog has known all-along......

The Wall Street Journal on the 'big-box' hypo-crite.......>"It turns-out that the wage bill's chief sponsor, Alderman Joe Moore, shops at suburban big-box retail stores, for the usual reasons. His campaign committee has purchased $30,589 worth of supplies at big-box retailers out-side the city, according to dis-closure forms.

Information from The Blog-Critics:

* Not a Good Month For Alderman Moore

* Mayor Daley vetoed the 'Big Box' ordinance yesterday forcing Alderman Moore to go into attack mode against the Mayor calling him a few choice republican names. Is this the best Alderman Moore can do? He has used this tired old rhetoric before.

* Then we have this. A couple of Alderman are ready to change their mind's on the foie gras issue. A repeal has been ordered on the menu.

Clearly it hasn't been a good month for Alderman Moore so far. He's had to cover-up for a campaign contributor slumlord after six children died in a fire that was preventable.

The month's not even half over. What will Alderman Moore do next?

Pop-Quiz:

Question 1 - Will Alderman Moore fight both challenges while:

a.) his ward is under gang attack,

b.) his ward is being run down by poor landlords,

c.) his health care programs are third world in nature,

d.) all of the above.

Question 2 - Will Alderman Moore fight both challenges while:

a.) his ward's commercial districts remain empty and boarded up,

b.) his ward is being overtaxed with SSA's,

c.) his very own Special Service Area janitors are paid sub-standard wage ,

d.) all of the above.

Question 3 - Will Alderman Moore fight both challenges while:

a.) his ward's residents struggle to find jobs,

b.) his ward residents have to fight for their own safety,

c.) his wards residents have to travel outside the ward to shop,

d.) all of the above.

If you answered d to all three questions - you'd be right.

If these elected officials are going to waste our tax dollars, first voting on - then vetoing and repealing Alderman Moore's silly laws, they might as well make Alderman Moore look like an economically challenged idiot while they do it.

Still it makes me wonder, if these elected officials were really smart, they could have saved the taxpayers a lot of money and just read the "Broken Heart" first.

* Alderman Moore Offers Third World Health Care

With all the hoop-la Alderman Moore made this week regarding a health fair on such short notice, I had to go and find out exactly what was being offered. Here's how I would grade Alderman Moore after what I saw.

When it comes to health care, Alderman Moore scores a big fat F. Make that a F-. If this is the best Alderman Moore can do - well, he should be very ashamed of himself. After all, the Alderman spent more time and money trying to save the ducks and geese of the world, than he did this weekend trying to take care of his human residents of the 49th ward. Here we photographed the examiner who can't even wear the mask right. Wait, there's more.

Guess what? There was no health care van like promised on the Alderman's promotional material. All the Alderman offered - was a pop-up tent. This pop-up tent was set-up for everyone to see the exams, if that's what you want to call them. Watching the nightly news, some third world countries offer a better environment when treating poor patients who can't afford health care.

Plantation Politics:

* Play music spun by DJ Land - stuff the kids with popcorn, nachos and soda.

* Offer the kids a carnival like atmosphere with a moon walk. (The line was longer for the moon walk than the line for the dental screening.)

* Give away political t-shirts letting the poor people know who pandered to them.

* Don't forget, the too little - too late, passing out of the smoke detectors after six children die.

This poor turn-out was more of a political event for the Alderman trying to save face after a deadly fire and less a check-up for the kids who's families can't afford REAL medical care.

I wonder if Alderman Moore would put his children through this type of third world medical treatment?

Blognotes: Toni over at 24/7 Howard Watcher has her view on the day.

Toni also mentions in another blog post, the lost, or runaway 16 year old girl named Emma Wasserman has been found, apparently she's alive and well. Now that's good news.

* The Lighter Side

This possum decided to camp on my back staircase last night. It's not that I haven't seen one before, I've never seen one so close to my back door. After my dog Cota started barking, the little rodent froze up and wouldn't move.

* Forced Entry A Misdemeanor?

A man was reported in stable condition Saturday morning after falling from a window in Rogers Park while on the run from police.

Officers pulled the man over for a traffic stop Friday night near Birchwood and Damen avenues. But the driver bailed from his car and ran off into an apartment building.

Witnesses said he tried to kick down several doors before he finally forced his way into a third-floor apartment at 7454 N. Seeley Ave., half a block west of Damen. Then he fell from the window.

“They tried to get him out the window, and he was holding on, and he just said, ‘My life is over,’ and he let go, and he fell,” a witness said.

The offender has been charged with criminal trespass, criminal damage to property, and possession of cannabis, all misdemeanors, Rogers Park District Capt. Howard Denk said.

He was also wanted for a warrant in Wisconsin, which might explain why he ran.

The suspect’s injuries are not considered life-threatening.

From the STNG Wire

Updated: On the Howard Hell Hole.

* Beat 2431 Citizen Walk Tonight

Last week, CAPS beat 2431 facilitator said because of the dismal CAPS walk turn-out last week, he would go all out and do flyers for a CAPS walk next week. Kevin even went as far as saying the walk would be a celebration of sorts.

Well, next week is here and Kevin just sent me a last minute email saying he wanted to push this event off a week and really have a celebration.

This guys got to be kidding. Celebrate what? The fact Alderman Moore continues to cover up for Mr. Block and the Block building? The Block building is as bad as ever. He wants to wait a week?

The Alderman continues to turn his back and not listen to the citizens concerns regarding this slumlord. Sound familiar? So, instead of waiting for someone else to get shot or beat up in front of this Block building, Paws4Peace will pick up the slack and host this weeks walk Kevin promised to host - but didn't.

What: Neighborhood Citizen Walk
Where: Block building - 1340 West Morse (Glenwood and Morse Avenue - northeast corner)
When: Tonight - Friday - 6 p.m.

For those who want to make it a March or Rally or Protest, feel free, join in. Word is, there is going to be a BIG announcement.

Updated - 9-9-2006: Five dogs joined the Paws 4 Peace dog group last night for a walk down Morse Avenue - with nine neighbors in tow. The walk started at the Block building at 1340 West Morse Avenue and went to Clark Street, then back to the Block building. The walk lasted about 45 minutes.

All aldermanic candidates (including Alderman Moore) knew about the walk. Jim Ginderske was the only "official" Aldermanic candidate brave enough to attend the walk.

This was double the crowd that attended last weeks pathetic CAPS venture.

* Waste Removal Company Starts Too Early for One Resident

Reader submitted story

Hi Craig, Yet another 911 call goes unanswered. What time can private trash collectors begin to remove waste?

4:45 am.... I think not.
,
Premiere Waste also demes it necessary to silence there backup alarm. I even witnessed a fellow neighbor pelting the truck with rocks. Taunting the driver to leave his vehicle. Pussy boy driver would not only made a few calls. Have video for supporting evidence I'm enclosing. I can be pretty easy going and let a lot of things slide but when my 3yr old and 1 year old cry at 4:45 am Every fucking Monday and Wednesday this summer.

Groot picks up the Condo's on S.E corner Lunt and Wolcott every other Monday at 6:00 AM. Today's collector started at 4:45 AM corner Farwell and Wolcott emptied 4 dumpsters then proceeded to Lunt and Ridge for another 5 dumpsters.

Signed,

Help me stop the early morning noise.


Here's the code, Sec. 30-458. Scavenger operations.

All scavenger operations in the County, commercial and municipal, shall limit the actual contact hours involved in the pickup of refuse and all other solid waste in any residential or business-commercial zone (R-1, R-2, R-3, R-4, R-5, R-5A, R-6, R-7, R-8, C-1, C-2, C-3, C-4 and C-5 ) wherever regular human occupancy is involved by virtue of residence only and such contiguous portions of any I-1, I-2, I-3 or 1-4 zone within 600 feet of any such place of regular residence or the institutional equivalents (hospitals, nursing homes, etc.) to the period of 7:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. These limits apply only to those contact periods wherein the collection function is in progress in R-1, R-2, R-3, R-4, R-5, R-5A, R-6, R-7, R-8, C-1, C-2, C-3, C-4 and C-5) and contiguous portions of I-1, I-2, I-3 and 1-4 zones and are not intended to include or confine such functions as start up and shut down operations at the central operating point (transfer station, sanitary landfill, incinerator, etc.) or the transit time of the first trip to and the last trip from the defined collection areas. Noise levels in such central operating points shall be governed by the property line values applicable for the location ( Sections 30-464 through 30-467). The exemptions on engine operation when parked of Section 30-460(a) shall apply as will the restrictions on new vehicles of Section 30-460(b) and vehicle use of Section 30-460(c)(1). When under severe conditions it can be shown to the satisfaction of the Director that operation outside these hours is in the overall public interest or operationally essential, special variance can be requested for such period as can likewise be shown necessary. (Code 1980, § 16-9.5; Ord. of 4-30-1963; Ord. of 11-6-1972, p. 5163.)

* Publishers Father Runs With Rough Crowd

Lots a buzz (no pun intended) has been made over my story on Shanna Gordon today, which I did nothing she didn't do. I linked her website to mine.

I didn't take any photos of the drunk people. I didn't make any of the comments. Those were her words, her photos. It was her website, I just did a link up.

She was using her website to reach out for campaign help for her father. Even going as far as offering class credit to those who did help. I spotted it And a whole lot more!

Since it's been exposed. She's altered the word content to choir girl status.

How did this start. About a week ago, at the Top Hat. RP Everyman wanted to talk about my drinking habit in the comments section. He went on and on. I never talked about private issues before. But I have been attacked over numerous occasions, in my own comments section. I had enough of this so-called Everyman - closet case.

So today, I leveled myself to their level. Using my full name of course. Not some hide behind the computer troll. In the process, people want to dig more dirt on me naturally. That's the game. And if they want to play hardball, I can play. See, I've been fighting in this hot kitchen for years, I can handle it.

If you can't handle me, you are never going to handle Alderman Moore.

Jordan Vielehr and one of my closet - coward commenters named RP Everyman wanted to get some dirt on my dead dad. So I figured I'd help then out. Here my dad is at some wild party a few years ago. A few, few years ago.

Yes RP Everyone, you seem to know my families life so well, (I'm narrowing you down and yes, I believe you are part of the other guy camp) my dad went to many parties and got all greasy. Some were wilder than others. But let me tell you about this one. Left to right we have Dewey Harrington, Kathy Osterman, (yes folks, that's Harry's mom) then state's attorney Richard Daley, Alderman Bernie Hanson and some other party animals. My dad is far right next to Nancy Reiff.

Check out the party balloons in the background. No one underage here. No one making fun of the ghetto here. Woo hoo. Party on.

* Racially Insensitive Party Hosted By Candidates Daughter

I'm not a parent, but I can tell you, if I was, I would talk to my daughter about posting stuff like this on the internet. I came across the website a few weeks ago when Don Gordon's daughter was recruiting people to help on her father's campaign via Craig's list website.

What I saw, shocked even me.

First, in Shanna's profile, Shanna promotes underage drinking as a general interest. Update, link remove by the Gordon campaign.

Underage drinking as a hobby? Who in the world taught her that? Isn't it against the law and dangerous too? If underage drinking occurs in a parents house, isn't the parent responsible?

Then there's this party photo. A pimps and hoe's party. A PIMP & HOE's PARTY? My word. How racially insensitive! For a man to claim to be diverse in all his campaign talk, this isn't the way to let your children party. In today's super sensitive culture, this isn't the way anyone should party.

We have a real bad pattern here. Now, it's looking like the other guy should be focusing on teaching his children to be more racially sensitive and less time telling us how to keep other children safe.

I'm all for a good party, everyone knows that. But this. Underage drinking? Pimps and Hoe's Party? What was she thinking when she held this party and posted this information? From the looks of things, the other guy needs to focus on issues at home.

It's time for this guy to get out of the race and go back to Parenting School 101 - ASAP.

* Alderman Panders To The Poor

Too little - too late. That's what this up-coming political event is all about. On Saturday Alderman Moore is holding a quickie, short notice damage control party in Gale Park. Just like the stunt Alderman Moore pulled last year, by pandering to the less fortunate when I exposed his lack of concern for our homeless residents in Rogers Park.

I'd like to ask the question why, but we already know that. His slumlord buddy Jay Johnson neglected his duties as a decent, community landlord. Now six children are dead. Alderman Moore needs to cover up the fact he turned his back and looked the other way while taking money from this slumlord who Mayor Daley says is "responsible" for these six children.

If he really cared about the children, like he claims, he would have held this so-called safety event last month. Before these six children died, instead of a holding gangsta picnic.

* Slumlord Stops Talking

After trying to shift the blame to the Ramirez family in regards to no working smoke detectors in the 7706 North Marshfield #3 unit, aldermandic pal and neighborhood slumlord Jay Johnson had two words to say to the media yesterday.

"No comment!"

* Alderman Continues Covering for Slumlord Campaign Donor

"Investigators found only a brace where a smoke detector should have been mounted in the Ramirez's apartment. I don't know what happened to it and we may never know," said Alderman Moore, again doing his best to defend his frequent campaign contributor and neighborhoood slumlord buddy - Jay Johnson.

Then there's this:

"We found no evidence of any smoke detectors, period. Anything can be removed, but there would have to be a place where it was hooked up and there wasn't," said Chicago Fire Department spokesman Larry Langford.

Who do you believe?

* Wash His Mouth Out With Soap

"GO FUCK YOURSELF.... PRINT THAT!"
Alderman Moore to the "Broken Heart" after a brief verbal exchange tonight in front Jay Johnson's deathtrap on Marshfield.

* DevCorp North Promotes Alderman's Questionable Fund

When the Alderman goes into full spin mode, he calls out the heavy hitters. Here the Alderman enlists his other politcal action group - DevCorp North to promote his questionable Ramirez Fund.

DevCorp North campaigning for the Alderman's Fund against the Ramirez family wishes. See, the Ramirez family has asked for funds to go to HACC, not the Alderman's office.

Is DevCorp North in the business of promoting a election year fundraiser for the Alderman or are they here to clean the sidewalks?

* Alderman Continues Cover-Up & Promotes Questionable Fund

"There were eight outstanding violations and these are general maintenance issues on the building," Alderman Moore said to the media. Once again defending his slumlord pal and frequent campaign contributor Jay Johnson on why there was no electricity and why there were no working smoke detectors in the Ramirez apartment building.

This time the Alderman interrupted the family press conference at the Howard Area Community Center - the official family fund headquarters. The Alderman came to grandstand for his own fund he set-up as a ruse to promote his re-election campaign. And the mainstream media is buying it by running the Alderman's information.

Sending money to that fund is like giving money to FEMA to distribute to Hurricane Katrina victims. You don't know where the money will end up.

The family clearly has ties to HACC, they've helped the family before. Plus, this is the families wishes as to where to donate money. They actually have hand-made signs out-side the deathtrap on Marshfield, indicating as such request.

My advice to the Alderman. Please, stop helping. You've helped enough already. Six children are dead.

* Alderman Covers Up Tragedy For Campaign Contributor

""I did conduct a visual inspection of a couple of the other units in the building today. They were equipped with smoke detectors, hard-wired. So, I believe the fire department's finding of there being no smoke detectors in that apartment were preliminary," said Alderman Moore, sounding like a lawyer covering for his guilty client.

The Chicago Fire Department says there were NOT working smoke detectors in the unit.

Watching Alderman Moore being interviewed on the news just hours after the tragedy that killed six children on Marshfield - in a building of a political friend, was like watching President Bush after Hurricane Katrina in New Orleans covering for the government's poor response.

Lie, lie, lie. Then lie some more. This is just another example why the man sitting in the 49th ward Alderman's seat has to go. He's out of touch with his community.

Didn't the Alderman know you need electricity to make these hard-wired smoke detector's work?

Jay Johnson, the owner of the "Death Trap on Marshfield" is a frequent Alderman Moore campaign contributor and has been notified of the tragedy. Mr. Johnson blames the Ramirez family for this tragedy on the news programs. Mr. Johnson also sits on Alderman Moore's rubber stamp - local 49th ward ward, "community" Zoning And Land Use Advisory Committee. (ZALUAC). He must have known the electricity was turned off to the 7706 North Marshfield #3 unit. ComEd is required to tell the property owner when they shut off power to a unit.

Plus, according to a source, the Ramirez family was stealing power by using a extention cord from the hallway to the apartment unit.

To say Alderman Moore didn't know Jay Johnson didn't take care of his properties - is to say Wayne Jones didn't get beaten to death in front of a Johnson property on Morse earlier this year.

The Alderman covered for Mr. Johnson then - and he's doing it again. This is a clear pattern of political cover-up. Cover up problems for your campaign contributors. Even when people die senselessly.

Campaign contributions over public safety must be Alderman Moore's motto?

Then there's this:

"Politics' didn't start this fire, but human indifference did," said Toni Duncan. She was interviewed by a WGN/Tribune reporter, who later called Toni back asking for clarification on why the Alderman would say, " not to listen to the nay-sayers, they are just politically motivated."

It's too bad these children weren't ducks or geese. Then Alderman Moore would have done something to save the children.

Donation Notes: The Ramirez family and friends have a fund set-up for today between 9 a.m. and 1 p.m. at the Howard Area Community Center at Jonquil and Paulina. Please avoid the Alderman's political fund set-up with one of his political action committee groups - RPCC. This fund is un-trustworthy, like the Alderman.

* Fire Kills Six Children in Slum Building

Remains of the families belongings, including a child car-seat.

Early this morning at 7706 North Marshfield, on the third floor, six young lives ended in a fire that was allegedly caused by burning candles because the family was living with-out electricity for at least one month.

The six children from the ages of three years of age - to mid teens, all allegedly died from smoke inhalation. Three children are still in the hospital, along with one adult, the mother.

The property is a CIG property that has a long history of neglect in the Rogers Park area. The ownership would rather contribute to the Alderman's campaign fund than take care of his properties.

Now, the building is a scene of a major tragedy that could have been prevented.

There is no security system on the entire property. The gated doors both front and rear don't have locks. The buzzer system is broken. This is what I photographed this morning. Word at this moment if there weren't any working smoke detectors in the unit.

Updated: This was a mother with nine children living in a three bedroom apartment with-out working electricity. Ages of the dead children are: Two-3 year olds, one - 6 year old, a 10 year old, a 12 year old and a 16 year old. The father has been notified.

What a heart-breaker this morning. This is so sad how people are forced to live in that CIG building with-out security and power. Now we have so many dead children. I pray the mother and her remaining three children pull though this tragedy and fully recover. All reports are preliminary according to Commissioner Orozco.

CNN
Channel 2
Chicago Sun-Times
Chicago Tribune

Updated #2:

Statement from Jay Johnson General Partner, Marshway Limited Partnership, which owns the apartment building at 7706 North Marshfield Avenue.

On behalf of Marshway Limited Partnership, I am deeply saddened by the devastating tragedy that occurred early this morning at 7706 North Marshfield Avenue in Rogers Park.

Our company has a longstanding commitment to the development of housing in Rogers Park and Chicago that is affordable to families. We join people in this community, city and around the nation and world who mourn the loss of six young lives and offer our condolences to the family and community members.

Jay Johnson
General Partner
Marshway Limited Partnership

Updated #3: I just received a press release from the Alderman's office also. I'm not going to run it. This jackass of a public official is using this tragedy for political purposes and this must stop. How long are people going to buy this tired act? Six people died because Alderman Moore allows slumlords to run free - without taking care of their properties. Then acts like some modern day Robin Hood when tragedy strikes. He's as much of a scumbag as his buddy Jay Johnson. I'll have much more on these two pals tomorrow.

The Law: Residential building owners in Chicago are required to install code-compliant smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors. A landlord can be fined up to $500 per day for negligence.

It is also against the law for anyone to remove batteries or damage smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors. A person who tampers with a smoke detector can be fined up to $1,000 and be jailed for up to six months.

* Another Sad Turn-Out for CAPS Beat 2431 Friday Walk

It's part of the CAPS program. Neighbors getting together with neighbors. Neighbors then joining hand in hand to fight crime with the Chicago Police Departments help. That's what CAPS is. A facilitator gets the message out to the neighbors. But once again, it didn't happen.

Last night CAPS walkless-stand was nothing more than 2 neighbors yelling at each other on a street corner, while two others watched. O.K. I was doing most of the yelling, But I was mad as hell. Only five people showed up for the first of the month - Friday Walk this month.

There was no promotion for the walk other than mentioning it at the CAPS meeting.

When these CAPS walks started earlier in the summer, I made fliers and posted them, I posted the information on the Hell Hole, we had over 40 residents attending.

The last two months, we've had less than a half dozen. No-one wanted to help flier for these walks anymore. I did my part, TWICE. Were other's too busy fliering for a political picnic or Alderman's Developer Informercial maybe?

Now here's what the arguing was about. Kevin O'Neil wants to celebrate the big open air drug bust next week. Alderman Moore is already taking credit for this with a press release. Can you believe it? Alderman Moore is again taking credit for something he never lifted a finger to try to help. And Kevin O'Neil wants to cheer him on, I'm sure, he always does.

It would be disingenuous to say the "Broken Heart" didn't have a hand in helping bring this Open Air Market to the Police Department's attention. But that's most likely what's going to happen. After all, it’s an election year.

* Herron Brother Arrest in Operation Morse Code

Eight gang members are in custody on drug charges and another four are being sought after police shut down an open-air drug market in CAPS Beat 2431 !

Operation Morse Code targeted a drug territory bounded by Pratt, Greenleaf, Sheridan and Clark and Morse controlled by the Gangster Disciples street gang, which peddled crack cocaine in the area, according to a release from Chicago Police.

Initiated in May, the investigation was launched in response to complaints about narcotics activity from citizens, business owners and 24th District Commander Bruce Rottner, who noted an increase in violent crimes in the area, according to the release.

"With a Morse POD #19 camera at Glenwood and Morse, it forced these drug dealers to conduct their sales in alleys, vehicles, hallways and gangways,” Lt. John Escalante of the Narcotics and Gang Investigations Section said in the release. “But by using surveillance and undercover drug purchases, we were able to identify the primary players and build a drug conspiracy case.”

Reading the Hell Hole Works!

Eight offenders were taken into custody -- Roland Turner, 34; Antwon McCoy, 25; Lawrence Herron, 18; Robert Vann, 22; Vernice Wilson, 42; and Iesha Morales, 20 are charged with criminal drug conspiracy; and Preston Bennett, 27; and Anthony Bailey, 38, are charged with delivery of a controlled substance, according to the release.

Wanted for delivery of a controlled substance are Michael Williams, 27; William Collazo, 30; Crystal Houston, 24; and a 25-year-old male, the release said.

Blognotes: Notice this is a citizen and business owner investigation. Citizens who care enough to stick their neck out against these gangs. No elected public official helped in the bust.

Thank you Sergeant Cooper, Commander Rottner and all the officers who stuck it to these super dangerous scum-bags.

* Candidate Avoids Displaying City Sticker

While other city of Chicago motorists buy City of Chicago city stickers for their automobiles, candidate Don Gordon doesn't feel he has to display one from the looks of his automobile parked on this 49th ward parking lot. His car is missing the sticker on the portion of the window it's suppose to be displayed.

The question is raised, is a suburban banker trying to avoid paying into the city revenue pot? From the looks of the photograph, it's sure looks like it.

It doesn't look like the first year "the other guy" has avoided displaying a city sticker either. His car showed no signs of a 2005 city sticker either. If we looked back at the records, did he buy a 2005 sticker? Will records show he bought a 2004 sticker? Or 2003?

The car shows a pair of suburban stickers though.

Is this who we want for Alderman? Someone who cheats the city out of revenue? Valued revenue? Much needed revenue. Doesn't he know the rules? You MUST display the city sticker on the front, right-hand side of the window. The simple instructions are on the back.

Just like not displaying a city building permits.

Or not displaying a union bug.

It's a law to buy a city sticker for all cars if you live in the city. It's a law to display a city sticker for all the cars you own, if you live in the city. Just because you own a private parking garage and are privileged enough not to hunt a parking spot on the public streets of Chicago doesn't give you the right for not displaying a city of Chicago sticker.

The "other guy" claims to have lived in the city for thirty years. How many of those did he not buy a city sticker?
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Updated: I've held out on this story, it's over a month old. I wanted to give Don time to comply with the law. When I saw Don still hadn't had one on his car, I emailed Don and asked him why I couldn't find a city sticker on his car. This was the lame response.

"I HAVE a sticker - it's in my glove compartment. It's been there for a month. I haven't had time to breath or think about anything but this campaign, much less put my sticker on."

Don
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Well, Don, get to it. Get that city sticker displayed. If you would have done it right the first time you wouldn't be in this mess.

And, if you want to be up-front with the voters, send all city sticker receipts, to prove you've actually bought city stickers for say the last four years. For someone who claims to care for the city, he sure doesn't display it well.