* Polls Are Now Open

And So Is the Cheating

It's 6:15 a.m., precinct 29 at 6935 North Sheridan Road. Better known as Leona's Restaurant. The polls are NOW open. So is the 49th ward democratic cheating operation. Caught on film. First, this lady and her group of campaigners didn't want to be photographed. I told her she was violating the order of campaigning too close to the entrance. She mumbled a few choice words and started taking out the signs that were too close as I pointed out.

This cool cat in his fur coat and sunglasses didn't want to be photographed either. Mind you, it's 6:15 a.m. and it's dark, he's still wearing his shades. He kept covering his face with the political signs like he was hiding something and it wasn't what brand of sunglasses or fur coat he was wearing. He had to pull out all his signs that he placed too close to the doorway. He wasn't happy, but he wasn't following the rules.

This was the worst offense of all. They pulled their car right up to the door of the polling place, opened the trunk, all the while voters were walking in to vote. It was almost as if they had trunk advertising pre-planned. The cars plate numbers were CHP 594, and the owner was yelling at me not to take a photograph of her car also.

It's no wonder she didn't want a photograph taken, she was violating election laws.

* Police Act After Neighbors Complain

How many of you at one time or another actually complained? I mean openly complained on a serious issue where lives are put in danger? This press release, although a little late, has the Alderman praising those who openly complained about a 'Open Air Drug Market' on Birchwood. Not those who hide under anonymous names on the internet. Or those who draw up fancy problem solving essays on a campaign website. These were everyday neighbors who had enough and loudly complained. Neighbors like Dane R.

It's about those who will stick their neck out for other's to solve very tough problems. Problems like gangs, guns and drugs in our community. Not many have been willing to stick their neck out, so a few of us do.

Here is Alderman Moore's politically generated press release sent out today.

Chicago Police working with community leaders and residents scored another major victory in the fight against crime last week when they dismantled an open-air drug market in Rogers Park and forced two longstanding problem apartment buildings into the City of Chicago' s Drug and Gang House program.

Eight alleged gang members were taken into custody, and warrants were issued for two others.

Dubbed "Operation Heartbreak Ridge," the Police Department initiated the undercover investigation in September after community leaders and residents reported increased narcotics activity on the 2000 blocks of Howard and Birchwood and the 7400 and 7500 blocks of Hoyne and Ridge. The drug market area was controlled by members of the Black P Stones and Gangster Disciples street gangs.

Police used surveillance cameras and made undercover drug purchases to identify the primary offenders and build a drug conspiracy case against them.

The alleged gang ringleaders were arrested at 7514 N. Hoyne and 7650 N. Sheridan. Both buildings have been sites of suspected drug and gang activity, and the arrests will subject the buildings to the City's Gang and Drug House Task Force.

The task force will conduct extensive building inspections of the properties, and will be able to require building owners to evict problem tenants, engage in criminal background checks of prospective tenants and provide building security enhancements.

As part of Operation Heartbreak Ridge, police seized more than $37,000 in crack cocaine, $200 in Ecstasy and $1,800 in cash. Police also seized two 9 mm semi-automatic pistols. Five of the ten targets in the investigation were charged with criminal drug conspiracy. If convicted, they will serve mandatory jail time in the state penitentiary.

Police followed up last week's arrests with a "reverse sting" operation in the Howard, Birchwood and Hoyne area. Undercover officers targeted those attempting to purchase drugs in the area and confiscated automobiles driven by the customers.

Police also saturated the area with additional officers to prevent other drug dealers from filling the vacuum left by last week's arrests.

Alderman Joe Moore praised the work of the undercover officers and the 24th District Police who provided invaluable back-up assistance. "The work of these brave officers has made a significant dent in the drug trade in the Howard, Birchwood and Hoyne Avenue area by removing many of hard core drug dealers from the street," Moore said.

Moore also praised neighborhood residents who brought the alleged criminal activity to his attention and the attention of the Police Department. "Last week's arrests demonstrate that community policing works," he said. "I'll continue to work closely with the block club and other neighborhood residents to make sure our neighborhood continues to improve," Moore added.

BLOGNOTES: For those who don't rely on the 'Broken Heart' for news - click away now. These are the only news reports leading up to the Operation "Heartbreak Ridge' bust. As Dane mentioned to me, any coincidence on the title of the bust? Heartbreak-'Broken Heart'.

The shooting death of Terrance Palmer.

The memorial roll call.

* Election Day Blogging

If you can't get out to vote tomorrow - or say you're at work and want to keep up with the goings on. Stay tuned to the 'Broken Heart' Election Day Tuesday as we keep hourly blog reports around the 49th ward. You'll get a first hand look at what it's like to be involved - without having to be involved.

You'll get reports like this:

Illegal Electioneering by Team Fagus.

Sign Manipulation by Team Fagus.

Stay tuned, you won't want to miss a thing.

* Politicians & Organizations Pimping the Lakefront

From RPCAN: (I edited out most of the RPCAN advertsing)

A advisory referendum on the November 7th ballot in the 49th ward:

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?”

The referendum is at the end of the ballot (49th ward only)

This referendum effort has been very controversial among lakefront protection advocates for a variety of reasons, but now that it is on the ballot, it is in the public domain. It WILL be voted on and the results WILL influence how politicians view the issue of development along our lakefront.

"Save Our Lakefront" is the service marked name for the non-partisan campaign initiated/hosted by RPCAN, with involvement from Chicago Greens and Loyola Campus Greens, which was endorsed by a wide range of groups and individuals. It is not affiliated with, and does not endorse, any candidate for any office.

Background

This referendum has been controversial among lakefront protection advocates for numerous reasons, including, but not limited to:

* Possible voter confusion: In the 2004 referendum and 2005 anti-harbor efforts, Save Our Lakefront (SM) campaign successfully publicized its call for "NO!" to damaging development along the lakefront. This referendum question reverses the question, in a phrasing that some find confusing, so we now are asking for a "YES" response. Ironically, some of the people circulating referendum petitions don't even agree on what the policy response should be, adding to potential confusion.

* Allocation of resources: During late 2005, it became clear that the likely center of political debate on this issue was moving south into Edgewater, and most of the campaign leaders thought that the scarce volunteer energy available should focus on building cross-community connections, and including folks in the 40th and 48th wards in future activities. Also, there was concern that the advocates had not done the groundwork to effectively follow-up on a ballot referendum (getting on the ballot is the easy part), which could actually put our previous success at risk, and obligate us all to devote time and energy to something we considered unwise.

* Principles vs. personalities: A few of the individuals involved in this initiative have deliberately tried to blur the lines between the issue, themselves and Don Gordon's campaign for Alderman. The issue crosses many political lines, and the Save Our Lakefront(SM) campaign's name and agenda should not be morphed into a partisan effort.

* It's Clean, Now Let's Keep it That Way

Took Action - Got Results
Can the other guy's do this on such short notice?

I'm guessing what most of you people want first and foremost in Rogers Park is a leader who can get things done right - and get the job done quickly. Not having to wait around a month or two until the problem festers to a boil.

Like yesterday's big pile of rotting garbage story. That's kind of like a metaphor for the Aldermanic candidates.

Out on their campaign trail at the Morse Avenue EL stop, how many of the candidates spotted and reported the big pile of garbage building up over the last month?

* Did "Lakefront" Don? His questionably built campaign office is down the street. He's had to have passed this once or twice, I'm sure. He didn't notice?

* How about "Wal-Mart" Chris? O.K., I'll give him a pass. Other than this election cycle, I've never seen him around.

* Or "Health Care" James? Come on, I know James has driven his motorcycle by this previous pile of garbage. And he's gotta know a big pile of garbage is one big health hazzard. Just look at that big, smelly, rodent loving pile - James must have seen this trash building up?

Didn't anyone of these three people running to fill Alderman Moore's shoes do anything about the mess at the Morse Avenue EL? Did they put the pressure on DevCorp North and Special Service Area tax #24 to do their job? A job they are paid taxpayer funds to do. After all, that's why they are running, to make the ward a cleaner, safer place, aren't they?

Or are these guy's just one trick ponies?

* It's Official - Crime is Increasing

You heard it hear first. For those who believe and follow Alderman Moore and his "Crime's Down" routine, please click to another site now. For those who want real Rogers Park news, keep reading.

Notice the names, even a young 16 year old girl got tangled up in this mess.

For Immediate Release, November 3, 2006

Operation "Heartbreak Ridge" Open Air Drug Market in Rogers Park is Closed

Chicago Police on Friday announced charges in a undercover investigation that dismantled a open-air drug market on Chicago's North Side.

Operation "Heartbreak Ridge" targeted a open-air drug market in the Rogers Park neighborhood near Howard Street and Hoyne Avenue controlled by members of the Black P Stones and Gangster Disciples street gangs.

Police concluded the operation on Wednesday, arresting eight of ten targets in the investigation.

During the round-up, police also arrested an unrelated offender after observing him with a fully loaded 9 mm semi automatic pistol.

"These drug markets supplied a steady stream of drugs and were a source of danger to the law-abiding residents in these neighborhoods," said Lt. Kenneth Angarone with the Narcotics and Gang Investigations Section. "By taking these drug markets down, we improve the quality of life in this community."

The investigation relied on the use of undercover drug purchases, surveillance and other intelligence-gathering techniques to build a case against the gangs.

As part of Operation "Heartbreak Ridge," police seized more than $37,000 in crack cocaine, $200 in Ecstasy and $1,800 in cash, in addition to two 9 mm semi-automatic pistols.

Five of the ten targets in the investigation were charged with criminal drug conspiracy.

Those arrested or wanted on warrants as part of Operation Heartbreak Ridge include:

Demetrius Shavers, 24; In Custody Criminal Drug Conspiracy
Eric Hicks, 22; In Custody Criminal Drug Conspiracy
Female Juvenile, 16; In Custody Criminal Drug Conspiracy
Lamon Forrest, 21 ; In Custody Criminal Drug Conspiracy
Demarco McBride, 21 ; In Custody Criminal Drug Conspiracy
Quintin Watts, 40; Warrant Delivery of a Controlled Substance
Jimmy Brown, 33; In Custody Delivery of a Cont. Subs. (CLASS X)
Bruce Thomas, 34; In Custody Delivery of a Controlled Substance
Sheldon Morales, 25; In Custody Delivery of a Controlled Substance
Earl Longsworth, 46; Warrant Delivery of a Controlled Substance

* All Good Things Must End

No, the "Broken Heart" is not going away, the free reign in the comments section has.

Because of the childish comments from people who support Gordon and Moore - and those who just are plain idiots, (aka Hopsing and Roger Parker) I have installed comment moderation.

It's not going to effect the quality of content and readership here on the 'Broken Heart', because in the last few months, actually, that's increased and the stories are getting better.

So, enjoy and make all the comments you want, that hasn't changed. What has changed is I post the comments that stay on topic or pad my ego. Keep those coming.

Oh, and I'll be heading to Enon, Ohio for a off road motorcycle competition this weekend. Stay safe everyone.

* Garbage Piles Up in Special Service Area #24

A great deal of readers who attended the Cobblers Mall redevelopment meeting seem to believe the propaganda our leaders of the ward feed them. We've got over a 100 comments on this subject, mostly in favor. I've been to so many of these meetings where the project presented - turned out nothing like the end result. That's why I'm not buying this plan just yet.

Take the Morse sreetscape meeting for example. Or the Special Service Area higher tax meetings (anyone of them). Or the Gateway Mall meetings. Or the Gale Fieldhouse meetings. Or the new fire station meeting. Or the Loyola TIF meetings. Or any CAPS meeting. Sorry, but anytime Alderman Moore approves of a project, I'm very skeptical what the motive was.

Just last year DevCorp North paraded out a private security company that was going to clean up Morse Avenue. Everyone including Pioneer News Star believed the propaganda. When it was all said and done, for three months the security team took notes on the crimes that were happening. They didn't make any arrests, they just took notes. And collected $25,000 in SSA taxpayer dollars. The public still hasn't seen the $25,000 report log.

Now that night of the Cobblers Mall meeting Dean Maragos kept telling us how wonderful and great the SSA is. SSA this, SSA that. He sounded like a SSA preacher. After asking a question, it turns out he's nothing more than a cheerleader for the Special Service Area tax, as a SSA tax spending manager himself (#16). Most everyone in the room ate it up (except me), at times the crowd clapped for the higher taxes disguised as three letters. (Who claps for higher taxes anyway?)

So, here is what you folks were clapping for. Here is an another example of how the Special Service Area #24 doesn't work in the above photograph. Here is an example of why all the Special Service Area is nothing more than a taxpayer boondoggle. People clapped for this.

I could put up endless links of the Special Service Area tax #19 and 24 janitors caught not working, caught peeing in the alley, caught hanging flyers for groups that had nothing to do with the Special Service Area. But I won't. I'll save you the extra clicks today.

What we have here in the above photograph is at least a months worth of garbage at the Morse Avenue EL stop.

Where's the supervision? Where's the accountability?

If you've been to the Special Service Area meetings, you know the main mission is to keep the area clean. Well, this isn't keeping the area clean. This is adding to the problem. When waste builds up this high, it's a breeding ground for rodents.

So, is the Special Service Area #24 really working? In this case, they are not. I'm sure their going to pass the blame off to the local businesses that own the dumpsters. That's their MO. But shouldn't they have spotted this weeks ago - and done this before the garbage got out of hand? After all, that's why they collect taxpayer dollars to do this chore.

And these are the people you trust when they speak? Like I said before, excuse me if I'm skeptical.

* Another Open Air Drug Market Closed

For those who don't rely on the 'Broken Heart' for Rogers Park news, quick, click to another website now.

I got word another Open Air Drug Market was dismantled yesterday after a long investigation. My source said eight of the ten subjects sought - were captured in a early morning wake-up call by the Chicago Police Department. I'm not disclosing the Rogers Park location until the 'official press release' is released.

But I can tell you we had a circle prayer near the spot this summer.

* A Restaurant/Theatre Project With No Parking - Updated

Devin MeGee's (Pictured) Experience @ Denny's Will Serve The Community Well

Let's get right to the chase, shall we? The Morse Theatre/Century Public House at 1328 West Morse Avenue (formerly known as Cobblers Mall) meeting was packed with over 50 people in attendance last night. All the bigwigs were there. As projects go, this one's ambitious. Start to finish time, 16 months. Open date projected at March 2008. There were drawings on the project - but they didn't have any handouts to share with the crowd.

Now, a little about the project. The basics were given - projected hours of operation - 11 a.m to 1 a.m., serving breakfast, lunch and dinner, type of food served - mostly american fare, circa 1915, and music - acoustic, jazz, big band and children's theme.

Experience in the food service industry - Andy Megee and has partner are security traders. They admitted knowing nothing about food service (or music act booking for that matter). But young Devin, Andy's son, he has worked at Denny's before.

The crowd. Well Andy said his demographics are going to be like him. He kept repeating that. I'm guessing that means he wants middle-aged, rich, security trading - white men in his club.

Now the major issue. Parking. The presenters claimed to be well planned, but not on this issue of parking. Everyone who spoke, all promised parking. At one point someone up front was caught saying, "Parking will come.... " as parking spots will magically appear. According to Dean Maragos, the build teams lawyer, "parking is a great problem".... "You can't have a business without parking. "The business will die" Maragos said.

Well guess what folks? This project has got no-parking. Zero - zilch! Not one parking spot was presented on any of the plans.

So the powers that be will be applying for all the permits and licenses well before finding any parking. All on the hopes and prayers parking will mysteriously show up in the neighborhood. When other businesses and residents can't find parking, Andy will wave a wand - and poof, there's parking for 150 cars. Like magic.

Updated - 11:00 a.m: What a hot button topic we got going here. Everything's good - execpt the namecalling. I'm on the verge of comment monderation because of a couple of Gordon or Moore (or both) supporters talking about personal issues that have nothing to do with the topics.

So, all the other candidates were at this meeting last night. All read this website. Let's hear what they think.

Would Chris Adams, Jim Ginderske or Don Gordon allow a inexperienced restaurant owner a green light on this project without secured parking for let's say 100 cars?

Let's hear what they think of such a large venue being built without a single parking space for one customer, much less 300 plus.

They can post the answers on their own websites or send them to me. Or, they can just ignore the issue and hope it goes away. Much like Alderman Moore would do.

* Andy Wants A Liquor License on Morse Avenue

There are those who say, sure let's put another nightclub on Morse Avenue. Sure, why not, give them a liquor license too. But how many of these people are going to have to try to live and sleep 30 feet from the music stage at this nightclub? How many of these people are going to have to deal with the direct impact the extra crowds and extra cars that will flood this area?

We already have major parking woes.

Wait, there's more. The name Andy Megee doesn't ring confidence with me. He's the one asking for a liquor license.

See, I asked Andy to remove some graffiti from the property. I gave him plenty of time to do it. Then, because he couldn't get the job done, I had to get the people to do the job myself. If Andy doesn't have the power or the elbow to remove graffiti from the back of the building, how's he going to move the choir boy's from the front?

Plus, I've witnessed Andy pick up a glass off a table and throw the glass at a couple of teenage kids because they were being teenage kids. The glass completely missed the teenage kids - breaking to bits in the middle of the street. Guess what? I had to clean up that mess of his too. Is this who you want controlling a liquor license on Morse Avenue? Don't we have enough chaos around this area already?

So, I may be limited in questioning at the meeting, I'm not limited here. Plus, I know the principals involved read this blog. If not them, someone close to them. But I'm betting they read this themselves.
Questions - Questions - Questions
Who is Andy the front for? Who's the major investor? If he's the one pulling the strings, we need to cut this string before it starts to get all tangled up in a huge mess.

Parking. Where are they going to find parking spots? 93 seat restaurant - 299 seat theatre, that's a lot of people.

Security? How are they going to provide security for crowds this size? How are they going to control the open drinking, the peeing in the alley, etc? People leaving. Who's going to control these patrons? Who's going to keep them safe from the choir boys at the Harold Rider building?

Now, let's talk sound. How loud will the music be? What hours will the music be playing? Soundproofing, are they going to soundproof the building? I've lived next to a music venue and boy are they loud. This is going to be a sticking point with me.

Now, a question for the Alderman. Why do you so-easily grant liquor licenses to affluent whites (Morseland Night Club & Century Public House) and NOT to the old Biddy' Mulligans, aka, the Island Groove Cafe, who are minority owners? Is Alderman Moore being selective in who he wants selling booze at a nightclub? (And don't talk track record Alderman, the Morseland was initially denied a liquor license because of their previous poor track record. Remember? Maybe the campaign contributions will ring a bell?)

So, come out and enjoy a entertaining evening, where Andy and the Alderman makes their sales pitch to the community. I'll be taking notes and listening to all the soon-to-be broken promises.

What: Public Infomercial to Give Andy Megee a Liquor License.

When: November 1st, 2006 AD @ 7p.m.

Where: United Church of Rogers Park - 1545 West Morse Avenue - 3rd Floor

Blognotes: Andy Megee is being represented by perennial political candidate Dean Maragos. In 2003 Dean ran and lost to 44th ward Alderman Thomas Tunney. In 2006, Dean ran and lost in his bid for Metropolitan Water Reclamation district.

* Bambi Caught & Shot After Police Chase

Good Morning Craig,

Field reporter Mike here with a police update. Last night around 6:00 PM, I was startled with a female office yelling at a group of youth that she was one minute from arresting them. So I grab my camera and fly out the door to get the scoop. Look up and down the block and there are four police cars and one paddy wagon sitting down by the Block building (or whatever we call it now). I walk down the street and find out, its an All Points Police Bulletin of a suspicious subject.

Description: Tan with white belly and tan/white tail, subject is to be considered antlered and dangerous.

Suspect last seen headed west on Lunt, then south on Greenview, then east on Pratt, then south on Newguard, wait, no now running down gangways and jumping fences. We are not chasing the subject but following it. We lost it, send more cars and Animal Control. Pop, Pop, shots fired, suspect now has two tranquilizers in it’s hind quarters.

Suspect refuses to stop. Subject now seems to be high on something, and is lying down. Pop, shot fired again. Subject is down. I repeat subject is down. Now what do we do. We have subject cornered in a back yard.

All in all it was a fun chase. My son and I running to keep up with the deer and the police cars. The officers were kind enough to let me in the back yard and I took these pictures for the memories. And now I share them with you.

Signed,

The Deer Chaser

* Suburban Developer Stimulates Alderman Moore's Economy

MC&J Building II LLC, or better known as Robert Coe, who resides his business headquarters at 555 Skokie Blvd-Northrook, which coincidentally is no-where near our local area called the 49th ward, generously gave $1,000.00 dollars on April 6th, 2006, to the Citizens for Joe Moore, calling the transaction a individual contribution, thus stimulating Alderman Moore's economy.

From the looks of things, a few months later Alderman Moore's local ward 'community' Zoning And Land Use Advisory Committee (ZALUAC) grants Mr. Coe his wish - paving the way for a zoning variance on one of Mr. Coe's deals.

Nope, no hint of possible influence here.

* Stealth Condo's Stimulate Alderman Moore's Economy

24 apartment rental units suddenly changed to condos by New City Builders - 6906 North Lakewood Avenue. Then New City Builders generously felt the need to donate $1,500.00 on March 2nd, 2006 as a individual contribution to the citizens for Joe Moore, thus stimulating Alderman Moore's economy.

* Look Ma, No Gloves

A friend from Texas sent me a photograph he took of me competing last weekend in Oklahoma. I had to go through this four foot high, under-cut rock formation section three times. I made it twice. One mistake and you wind up in pain at the bottom of the riverbed, 15 feet below.

Notice I hate to wear gloves when riding. Maybe that's why I end up with massive blisters on my hand after these events.

Tomorrow I'll show a photograph of the time I didn't make it up this section. Let's see the other guy's do this.

* Circle Prayer held for Stanley Butler

Photo and Story by Julie Seagraves

Ceasefire held a Circle Prayer Wednesday for Stanley Butler who was shot Saturday morning when he opened the door to his family’s garden apartment. About thirty neighbors and friends attended to show their support for Butler and his family.

Butler was shot multiple times, twice in the head, twice in the chest and once in the arm in his Rogers Park home, by offenders who are still at large.

Ben Perrin, a childhood friend of Butler’s, came to the event to speak on behalf of Butler’s wife, Keisha.

“He is not a gang banger, he is not a drug dealer! He is a good father and a good friend,” he told the gathering.

Perrin was disturbed that he is being characterized as a gang member. He said the police continuously asked Butler’s wife if he was in a gang or dealing drugs, though she repeatedly told them he wasn’t.

“He worked at Jiffy Lube,” Perrin told the neighbors, “he probably worked on your car.”

Perrin was upset that Butler’s wife is not getting the support from the police that she should. He believes this is because they think the shooting is gang related.

According to Perrin, Butler’s sister called him that day because she was having trouble with some people and she needed his help. Butler answered his sister’s call because “that’s the kind of person he is. If you need help he’ll give it to you.”

As reported by the police, he got into an altercation with these people in Evanston, but left there without incident. Later, as his wife and three children were sitting at the dining room table, there was a knock at the door that changed their lives forever.

Keisha Butler said the children saw the whole thing. “My three year old is terrified. He calls it the house with monsters in it.” The children are currently staying with her mother.

Mrs. Butler echoed Perrin’s concerns about the police.

“Since I was a witness they brought me to the police station to question me.” Her husband had been taken to the hospital in critical condition.

“I was there for about 2 hours. I kept asking if we could continue this at the hospital so I could be with my husband.”

The police refused her request and said “no, it has to be done here.”

Perrin said he called the news media to try to get some attention drawn to this matter. He told the group, “CLTV said ‘If it was gang or drug related we’d be there in a second, but not for a domestic incident."

Though police have told Mrs. Butler that they have someone under arrest, they will not reveal the identity of that person and continue to press her for information.

Officer Kubiak, of News Affairs, said they have not been notified of an arrest by Area 3.

One neighbor at the gathering said it’s sad, “we walk by people everyday, but we don’t just come out of our houses and get together and talk to each other. It takes something like this before we get to know one another."

Another neighbor volunteered that she had been a victim of a crime in her home as well, and told Mrs. Butler if “there’s anything you need please let me know.”

Others expressed their desire to be the kind of neighbors who get involved and help when needed.

Mrs. Butler thanked them for their support, but told them, “We’re moving.”

With her husband in the hospital, she is now the sole wage earner in the family. A friend told her about the Cook County Victim Assistance program, and she indicated she will probably have to take advantage of their services, which include relocation assistance.

Her husband’s condition has been upgraded to stable after undergoing surgery at Illinois Masonic Hospital.

* Stealth Condo's Stimulate Alderman Moore's Economy

"More needs to be done to counteract the negative effects of condo conversions in his ward, but he added that such development has also stimulated the local economy."
Alderman Moore
October 25, 2006
Chicago Tribune

Blognotes: If the Alderman could find a way to muzzle the 'Broken Heart', these negative effects wouldn't be noticed as much and he could continue to stimulate his campaign fund - aka, the local economy.

* More Changes at the Harold Rider Building

We always hear about the lack of parking in the community. The other candidates haven't done much but make website promises. Here at the 'Broken Heart' we're not about fancy promises, we're about solving everyday problems, like parking.

Now, it would be disingenuous to say the above flyer being circulated around the neighborhood by Realty and Mortgage Company and the 'Harold Rider' building wasn't in response to a "Broken Heart' post.

So if you believe otherwise, here is the timetable.

On October 11th I posted this story regarding the lack of parking in the neighborhood and the fact David Fagus was getting special parking treatment. Lot's of angry comment's were posted, one by Mr. Fagus himself and one reader called to find out some real facts.

Well, I'm pleased to announce, the 'Harold Rider' building is now accepting applications for EVERY citizen for a limited time. One guy's slogan is, "take action-get results'. Really? Let's see him do this! Heck, let's see the Alderman find a half dozen plus off-street parking spots for his constituents, and at that price? Wait, his campaign staff is probably drawing up the press release taking credit at this very moment?

* Changes at the Harold Rider Building

First off, this photograph has nothing to do with the Harold Rider building. This is Patrick climbing a 25 foot high - almost vertical rock face incline at the Grand Lake Dam this weekend. It was insane. The competition and landscape was awesome. Patrick finished second overall, Phillip finished fourth and I, well I was upper mid-pack at 33rd place out of 120 plus riders. Some entries never finished this two day rugged event.

We had a great time and will be returning for future events held at this location. Patrick came home $500 dollars richer, as there was a top three purse. I got a finishers coffee mug and a event hoodie.

O.K., now to the Rider building. Well, now that Mr. Block has retired, the building we're guessing is under the control of the management companies leader, Mr. Harold Rider. So, we've changed the name of the building to the 'Rider' building. That's not the only changes.

It looks as if there is a new cleaner/janitor working the building unless Chris is on vacation. I saw a female cleaning the lobby yesterday. The same lobby where just last Friday morning some chior boys were hanging out when I left the city. I had to walk by a few times yeasterday to unload the gear and each time there was no activity at the 'Rider' building. No hanging out drinking, no loud swearing at the cameraman, no garbage thrown around, no nothing. It was very nice.

Now, back to Patrick. Patrick and I talked about these goodie two shoes who hang around the "Rider' building and what they should do. Patrick has suggested that if anyone of these kids wants to climb rocks with a bicycle or motorcycle instead of smoking them, he will mentor them (him or her) for one year.

That's right, any city kid, who's parent or parents sign a waiver, we will fully sponsor the child for a year. This includes a bike, food, lodging, travel and training. The only requirement, the kid must maintain a passing grade in his studies. The ideal situation would be to have the entire family embrace this outdoor sport. For all you basketball fans, it would be like being trained by Lebron James.

If this doesn't keep the youth out of trouble, nothing will. Personally, I don't expect anyone to take us up on this offer, but it's something we thought we would try to help out at least one person who wants to end the cycle of drugs and violence in our neighborhood.

Anyhow, it was nice of Patrick to offer to help. He's really a special young man.

* Crime is Decreasing?

Hello,

A man from Evanston was shot 5 times on Saturday at 11:30 am near 6600 North Ashland. As of Saturday he was in critical condition and I have no information as to his name or age.

Cease Fire will hold a vigil and response on Wednesday the 25th at 6:00 pm. We will meet at the corner of Ashland and Albion. I’ll send you more information as it becomes available. The Living Waters Community Church will join us.

Thank you for your support.

Sarah Jane Knoy and Verne Jones
ONE for Rogers Park Cease Fire

* Eat @ Jesse's

This is a neighborhood blogvertisment. Eat @ Jesse's Mexican Grill, located at 6950 North Western. Tell em the 'Broken Heart' sent ya.

* Remember, Crime is Down

Funny thing about crime, it needs to be reported before it can be considered a crime. Take for example this broken window at Morse Gyros with police tape wrapped around it. Until Nino the owner reports the window broken, there is no crime. Thus crime is down 100%.

* Shocking News - Daisy Duke Endorses Ginderske

Both Daisy Duke and James Ginderske were victims of stealth condo conversions in Rogers Park as reported here on the "Broken Heart". Both Daisy and James decided they couldn't fight the good fight. Unlike Margot Hackett, who continued to fight the Stealth condo conversion, both Daisy Duke and James Gindreske caved in to Alderman Moore's developer buddies and eventually moved out.

So last night Daisy showed his support and held a underwear fashion show fundraiser for Jim Ginderske at the Morseland nightclub. Why? I'm still trying to figure this one out. It's like both of them got tossed out in their shorts, then decided to hold a underwear party. I don't get it.

Don't fool youself, this was a huge endorsement. Almost a coveted as the Tribune.

These two stealth condo victims got there community start with the 'Broken Heart'. Now, both of them have turned their back on the 'Broken Heart'. The 'Broken Heart' is crushed, yet will rebound from this shocking endorsement.

* Tribune Snubs Aunt Jan

Chicago Tribune - October 19, 2006
9th District: We endorsed Democratic Rep. Jan Schakowsky in her last few elections, even though we disagree with her on many issues. But her style of unceasing partisanship contributes to the bitter atmosphere in Washington. She'll bash Republicans on all matters, but when her husband Robert Creamer was sentenced earlier this year for federal bank fraud, she wouldn't acknowledge he had committed a crime. She'll rack up big numbers in this heavily Democratic district against Republican businessman Michael Shannon of Park Ridge, who refuses to take campaign contributions. The Tribune makes no endorsement.

* Priest Accused Of Stealing From Own Church

Mark Sorvillo Spent Church Funds On Himself

(CBS) CHICAGO A Roman Catholic priest will be in court Thursday morning, accused of stealing from his own church.

Investigators said the Rev. Mark Sorvillo stole close to $200,000 from St. Margaret Mary Church, at 2324 W. Chase Ave. in the West Rogers Park neighborhood, where he was pastor.

Police said Sorvillo spent the money on European vacations, trips to Neiman Marcus, and liquor.

Sorvillo turned himself in on Wednesday after learning he would be arrested.

* Oklahoma or Bust

I know we all need a break, so I'm heading off to Oklahoma this weekend for a motorcycle October-test event. We're packing the big rig with two wheelers and we're spending three day's at the Grand Dam area near Langley/Disney, OK.

For the hard-core 'Hell Hole' junkies, I'll have a couple posts for everyone to mull over while I'm away spinning my wheels.

* Are Candidates Too Good For Blogs?

The 'Broken Heart' gets thousands of comments to the 100 stories posted about our community. Lately most comments are on the political subjects. It's fair to say that the candidates read the blog on a daily basis. If not them, someone on their campaign. But I'm willing to bet a pot of gold, they all read it themselves.

Why don't they respond to the posts or comments? Jim used to comment, heck Jim got his start writing here, but doesn't anymore. Even though Fagus has his own blog, he still posts stuff here. Gordon claimed he open early on, but doesn't seem to follow his own rules now. Harrington, he's stopped too. (Actually, Hartrington should get a job and pay off his 2003 campaign debt, but that's another story.)

Yet, the questions on this blog will keep coming and coming, like today. This was buried from a story a few months ago, I pulled it up for all to read. It's important and I felt it needed it's own story.

It's about the other guys no-permit build which he still hasn't answered.
***********
I am renter, a person with a disability, and have lived in Rogers PARK 17 YEARS, PATRONIZED IT FOR OVER 25. I see no candidate but Joe really concerned about the issues of diversity, which include disability issues, but Joe. However, though I like Joe.

I serve on a committee with James and he does not really speak to me, rather brushes me off as if I am insignificant. It is quite interesting the dynamics that come into play when we are at the Rogers Park Consortium meetings. That does not bode well for a candidate for alderman.

I find Don Gordon sincere and a nice guy, but his campaign office space is not even accessible, so I can't get in to sign his nominating petition or attend his meetings. However, I like his website.

I like Joe Moore as a person and as someone who cares about all in the ward, though I, too, would like to see someone else take the reins just as Joe did when David Orr left for the County Clerk's office. However, based on what I have witnessed and experienced from the alternative, I may still be forced to vote for Joe.

I will say this, if Don wants my vote and help with his Campaign, he needs to have a ramp, even if a wood incline available for people in wheelchairs to get into his Campaign headquarters. Aldermen have to uphold the city ordinance Section 2-160 forbids discrimination in public accommodations.

I work with youth and I am a renter myself, so I oppose anything that pushes people out of their home just because they cannot afford homebuying or high rental costs. I live in Rogers Park for the diversity of ideas, people, ages, lack of a racial majority, spirituality, acceptance of all races and cultures without putting any down, haven for artists and people with disabilities (through an alderman who upholds the ordinance even when his Campaign supporters gripe), an alderman who supports living wages and benefits so that he is not a rubber stamp for the mayor.

I have not seen Joe's house, but I have not seen any other candidate's house either. I don't want to see their houses, so much as their hearts. Where is your heart? What makes you tick? If you weren't opposing the incumbent, what would your platform really be? Instead of focusing on the negatives of the candidates, I would now just like to focus on Rogers Park and who could do the most good for all of Rogers Park--who is a reform candidate instead of a machine politician? Who supports William Walls III for mayor as the reform candidate?

Who represents a champion for cultural democracy? Who can I call even when they are at their daughter's wedding to dispel racial violence--Joe did.

Who will not just lip words of action, but actually demonstrate their commitment to the people of this ward? Who is willing to take on police corruption, violence, and ward cleanup without criminalizing youth? Who is willing to work with the community groups that really do support a united Rogers Park even if those groups do not support your candidacy?

Who is willing to see the CAPS meetings have community ownership--so it creates a sense of trust not just between homeowners and police, or business groups and police, but ordinary people and police, youth and police. Real community policing-on neutral ground, in an environment of trust where everyone is worthy of comment and respect.

An environment in which police officers and residents have mutual respect, not just because the police carry guns and can rid the corners of drug dealers if they had the time and manpower, but because police officers like residents we are just ordinary people with an extraordinary task of building relationships based on honest feedback, integrity, ongoing training, and intuition. If people don't get it, they should not be aldermen.

Right now, I am considering either Joe Moore or Don Gordon, but I need to see Don be more cognizant of the human rights ordinance as it pertains to people with disabilities. As for any candidate who does not like youth, people in wheelchairs who demand access, people born outside the USA, people who have low income and are forced by discrimination or disability to accept government help (big business does it everyday), or people who do not have the same sexual gender as the candidate, I don't have much time for people running for office who alienate particular populations; so please don't let me find out if you do-- I will broadcast it.

Meanwhile, there is time for each candidate learn the needs of the community, the contents of the human rights ordinance that they must uphold as alderman (not just their personal reasons for running), and cultivate a campaign of honesty. Sometimes the best man or woman does not win, but may the best man win in 2007 who will be a representative of the community in the best interests of the entire city.

Hey, by the way, why do no women run in Rogers Park? Don't answer. We know why. Besides, that is another consideration for a separate blog, and I have written enough.

# posted by Maatjewelry

Blognotes: Like I said, we all know the candidates follow the blogs. If they say they don't, they're pulling your leg. Let's see if we get a answer this time around.

Or will we be ignored - like before? Or another example, like Adams has a habit of doing.

Now that they are these special candidates instead of everyday citizens, are they too good for the blogs?

* 49th Ward Affordable Housing Plan

We know the cost of housing has gone through the roof - But this is crazy.

From the looks of things, it looks as if we have a new affordable development being build along the lakefront.

Our location is the three willow trees that are near Pratt Pier. They are taking on a drastic change as a ladder and construction materials have recently appeared. There's even a electrical power cord running to the trees from the lifeguard station.

Something seems odd here.

Haven't we heard this before. There is no sign of any work permits. No notice of a Lakefront Protection Ordinance violation. I wonder if the 'other guy' who is oh-so-concerned about 'pimping the lakefront' is doing anything about this latest development?

Or maybe this is Alderman Moore's new 'help the homeless' plan? If they live in a tree, they can't be called homeless, right? Either way, I don't think we had a community meeting on this. Did we?

Bonus coverage: Not Close-up - Jeff-O View

* CAPS Beat 2431 Meeting Tonight

Tonight @ 7 p.m., the CAPS beat 2431 meeting will take place at 1530 West Morse Avenue. Listen to endless, mind-numbing index and non-index crime stats which ends in the saying, "crime is down" so and so percent.

Talk about crime and bad buildings. Learn the difference between 311 and 911 when calling for help.

* Dealing With A Slumlord

For those who think we don't try to get something done with the Block building through the Alderman's office, you'd be very, very wrong. We do. We've forced the Alderman to break away from the Foie Gras issue long enough to hold three after hours meetings at his office this summer. Not that these meetings did any good - but we tried. At the last meeting in August, the Alderman disrespected the group so much, he didn't show up at his own office.

Since our last meeting on August 8th, the Block building has gotten so bad, it's turned into a full blown, 24/7 - drug house on the 1345 West Lunt side! Why just Saturday afternoon, about 12:25 p.m., 911 was called because a lady was openly smoking crack in the lobby. This gives a new meaning to the saying "high noon."

These are the meeting notes just sent to me. Here are the questions and, shall I say, lame results. Could it be dealing with the Alderman only makes matters worse? You be the judge. Here we go.

Ideas and suggestions from June 21 problem solving meeting on 1340 W. Morse/1345 W. Lunt:

8/8/2006 update:

Current situation:

Police calls for service: Police report 174 and 138 calls for service to these addresses (respectively), for an average of almost one call every two days. By comparison the nearby address of 1257 W. Lunt (55 units) had just 13 calls in one year’s time. Of those calls, 11/2 (respectively) were related to “Domestic Disturbance,” and another 80/50 were about a disturbance, narcotics, theft, batteries and assaults in progress (though perhaps related to domestics), or suspicious person. A meeting was held July 12 at Alderman Joe Moore’s office to review proposed solutions with Harris Block, property manager, and Chris Hill. Attending were Don Gordon, Alicia Lopez, Kevin O’Neil, Tom Westgard, Francis Scudellari, Craig Gernhardt, James Ginderske, Dan Sullivan.

UPDATE meeting was held 8/8/06 at the alderman’s office. Present were Kevin Cosgrove, representing the alderman, Kevin O’Neil via speaker phone, Tom Westgard, Francis Scudellari, Craig Gernhardt, and Dan Sullivan. Harris Block did not attend; Kevin Cosgrove thought this was another meeting where Block’s attendance was not required. Kevin C. did talk to Block on Aug. 7 to get updates from him. Notes from this 8/8 meeting are included after the bold “Update:”.

Proposed solutions

1.) Mr. Block must use credit and criminal background checks on potential renters, month-to-month renters, and renters on a lease that is up for renewal.

Response: Block said he already does credit and criminal background checks on potential renters. In addition, he promised to do criminal checks on renewals.

Update: Block is using Data General to do criminal and credit checks. Kevin C. will verify this. Kevin will verify procedures for checks on month-to-month tenants.

2.) Mr. Block should require security deposits for his buildings.

Response: Block promised to begin requiring security deposits immediately. He said he would change his Sun-Times ad immediately and change his Web site by July 21.

Update: Block says he is now requiring security deposits. A check of the Realty and Mortgage Co. Web site (http://www.realtymort.com/listings/othercity.htm) shows that the mention of no security deposit is gone from the Morse/Lunt buildings, though it is there on some South Side buildings. Incidentally, the site lists Chris’ phone number as 773-560-8704.

3.) Mr. Block should make certain all exterior lights are always in good working order. Some have been reported to be out. It was suggested that he get better lights. Replace the ballasts. Remove timers and replace with light sensors.
Response: Chris first said all the lights were working, but meeting attendees said two of three Lunt Avenue lights were out. Block and Chris promised all lights would be replaced by July 14, and that Block would install light sensors by July 21.

Update: FX Construction replaced ballasts and light fixtures. Dan S. says lights have been better. Craig reports lights on east side of each building are blinking and need to be fixed. Block did replace the lights on streetside of Lunt.

4.) Actively invite tenants to beat meeting. Mary Jane Haggerty and Alicia Lopez will help do this. We’ll need Mr. Block’s and Chris’ help on this.

Response: Mary Jane and Alicia were scheduled to go door-to-door with beat meeting flyers at both buildings on July 13. Chris promised to meet them and escort them through the buildings.

Update: MJ and Alicia did this for July. We’ll ask them to do it for August beat meeting.

5.) Check to make sure tenant signs are still posted in the buildings.

Response: Alicia promised she would check on these signs July 13. She would work on Spanish translations also.
Update: These are still posted. Will check again in August.

6.) Mr. Block should immediately schedule an interior inspection for the Building Dept. Exterior building violations have already been noted in April. Interior inspection has been requested.

Response: Meg Gillman reported via email before the meeting that tenants in the Morse building had call 311 to complain about bugs and other issues in the building. Block said he would call Meg July 14 to work with her on getting an interior inspection scheduled.

Update: We think Block did get in touch with the Building Dept. He got name and number of guy to talk to at Building Dept. from Meg Gillman. Kevin C. will confirm that Building Dept. was contacted, and what the results of inspections were. Need to determine what the violations were and when administrative hearing might be, if it is scheduled. Kevin C. will tell us when the hearing is. Kevin will let us know by Aug. 11 what he finds out.

7.) CTA needs to clean the viaduct. Tree, weed and trash trimming on viaduct. Alicia to handle request.

Response: Alicia promised to call the CTA about this on July 13.

Update: Need to confirm with Alicia, who is on vacation. Kevin C. will check with Alicia’s contacts and determine status of request. Kevin will let us know by Aug. 11 what he finds out.

8.) Someone from this group should review the videotapes every week, but we’ll look at time/dates where specific complaints have been made. We should rotate the job. Mr. Block should change tape length date to 8 days.

Response: Block promised to ask his video provider about changing the tape length to 8 days. Group members then promised they would check tapes if they saw disturbances.

Update: Block changed rotation date to 10-day cycle. He already gave copies of tape to neighbor who had broken car window. Dan Sullivan and Jim Ginderske will request recent tape of last Sunday, of broken windows on 1344 W. Lunt. Craig mentioned a convenience store break-in might be on the tape (date to come), and an attempted assault on Craig (date to come). We need to push Block to deliver these tapes on a timely basis. Kevin C. will emphasize his in call to Block.

9.) Mr. Block and Chris should work with police to aggressively combat trespassing by non-residents. Signs should be posted if they are not already.

Response: We explained to Chris the importance of signing police complaints about loitering. He promised to sign some complaints by the Aug. 21 beat meeting. Chris told us and his uncle had been walking the hallways and exteriors on Friday and Saturday nights from 1 am till 5 am.

Update: Signs are up. There was a break-in at Unit 501. Chris called it in. Arrest was made, Chris signed complaint. He will go to court. We don’t know of any trespassing complaints that Chris signed. This is crucial. He must sign complaints to keep knuckleheads who don’t live there off the property.

10.) Mr. Block should attend landlord workshop held at police stations around the city on a regular basis.

Response: Block said he had previously attended these seminars, and didn’t find them very useful. Nonetheless, Tom Westgard said he would give Block a pamphlet with seminar dates.

Update: Block said he would go to the next one when he gets the list of times, date.

11.) Continue to work with police on addressing problem tenants, and evict them.

Response: Block said there were a total of 9 evictions in process – 2-3 for illegal activities such as loitering, the others for non-payment of rent. He said he would call the alderman’s office for assistance with speedy evictions when the court writs come through.

Update: Block said on Aug. 16 he has an eviction on Morse Unit 410; Unit 406 already evicted from Morse. Lunt: 207 and 512 are out. 409 and 513 are pending. Kevin C. will help with expediting sheriff requests when they come through. We should confirm these evictions. Dan wants names of tenants evicted so they don’t go into other nearby buildings. We need to set up a better mechanism for making sure those evicted from nearby buildings don’t end up in these bad buildings. What is mechanism, how to put in place and who is responsible? To be determined.

12.) Attend Beat 2431 meetings for the duration of the problem-solving process.

Response: Block said he would attend beat meeting through the rest of the year, though he would not be able to on July 17. Chris would attend July 17. Block also promised to plant flowers and make other beautification efforts, particularly on the Lunt side.

Update: Block said he will be at beat meeting on Aug. 21. He got a bid of $3,200 for landscaping, and needs another bid. He promises to have it done by end of September. Craig said he has already put down grass seed that was eaten by pigeons. He still needs to remove dead bushes on Lunt.

13.) NEW: Craig says biggest new issue is non-tenants loitering in front of the vestibule. They are 15-20 years old, they hang at all hours of day, some on bikes. We need to get Chris to press charges on trespassing by non-residents. There’s lots of frustration about this loitering, and Chris not signing complaints about this. This summer is the worst by far. Dan has had seven windows broken in the last four months. Check on whether gang dispersal is in effect at Lunt and Glenwood.

14.) Dan wants to get police to take him up on his offer to give them surveillance space in his building across the street at 1344 W. Lunt. Kevin O. gave Dan the number for beat team leader Sgt. Lori Cooper. Dan will call her.

We will get monthly call-for-service stats from police as one gauge of progress on building improvements. Meeting adjourned on 8/8 at 7:10 pm.

Blognotes: Summary - Oct. 14th, 2006

Current situation: Very, very bad.

Proposed solutions: Are not working.

* Rogers Park is Hell on Earth

" I mean, we live in a nice, upper middle class neighborhood but I have to ride through Rogers Park to get to work. Howard St. in Rogers Park is hell on earth to me (and it's not even the worst in Chicago) Clark St. through Rogers Park is a fucking dump. "
Jenn Handel
The Look @ Me Mom Blog
October 14, 2006

Remember little Shannon? Well, I think we found another one just like her. She calls herself Jenn. She's a sheltered girl from Iowa who I'm guessing, just moved to Chicago.

As you can see from the above quote, Jenn doesn't much care for Howard Street and Clark Street in Rogers Park.

What you think about Jenn Jeff-O?

* Celebrating Joe's Accomplishments

"Gale Park Community Center project which I shepherded"
Alderman Moore
October, 2006 - Chicago Tribune -Letter to the Editor:

Remember this date on the Alderman's flier? Monday, February 10, 2003. Remember the time? 1 p.m. If you're not familiar with this time and date in history, let me fill you in.

It was about two weeks before the 2003 Aldermanic elections. At the time Alderman Moore was worried his political opponents were gaining in popularity. The Alderman was really desperate for positive media attention.

He had previously given away free shoes at the Good News Kitchen. Then he tried free movie theatre tickets. And of course the free turkey's at Thanksgiving. But none of that 'giving away free stuff' was helping in the phone polls.

The Alderman had to do something BIG - and do 'it' FAST. Time was running out.

So, Joe pulled out one of his finest stunts he could imagine at the time. (This was before he knew what Foie Gras mind you.) The Alderman decided he needed to hold a monumental ground-breaking to gain political momentum. The Alderman's puppets fliered the neighborhood with the above celebration notice to spread the good word.

That's right, Alderman Moore promised a Gale Fieldhouse celebration. It was almost biblical in sense. Joe shepherded the local kids to stand next to him and pose with fancy golden shovels. The people north of Howard ate it up. This was a proud moment for 'Joe the Shepherd'.

His 'I'm the king' stunt netted him a large 4-color cover photograph in the local News-Star newspaper at the time.

(But in reality, the community and media got duped into thinking a fieldhouse was actually going to be built that year.)

A few weeks later the folks north of Howard came out and supported the Alderman in huge numbers. Mainly because of the fieldhouse promise a couple weeks earlier. In the 34th precinct Joe got 61% of the vote to Harrington's 31%. In the 1st precinct, the numbers were worst for Harrington, Joe got 67% of the vote. This should have been a Harrington stronghold, after all, that's what Harrington claimed at the time.

Now fast foward, it's nearly four year later and election season is around the corner. After three years of nothing, the Alderman is at 'it' again. With the same project called Gale Fieldhouse.

Will the voters buy Joe's tired, worn out act this time around? Will the voters follow their self proclaimed shepherd to this so-called promised land?

Only time will tell. But history is repeating itself - already.

Blognotes:

24/7 Toni's Timeline.

Sorry the flyer is faded, old and ripped, but it's really a historic piece of ward history. I'm betting the Alderman wished it never existed.

* Joe The Greatest - UPDATED

Finally, Alderman Moore's pathetic response to the Tribune. I'll let this sit in whole for a while before we start debunking this pack of lies he sent to the Tribune.

To the editor:

For years the Tribune ridiculed the Chicago City Council as the Mayor's “rubber stamp." Now that we are beginning to assert ourselves as equal policymaking partners with the Mayor, the Tribune says we're meddlesome” and tells us to just focus on our own wards.

By prohibiting foie gras, forty-eight of my colleagues joined me in standing up for compassion and humanity by following fifteen nations in banning a product of egregious animal cruelty.

Perhaps the Tribune's real concern is the City Council's growing independence on issues of far greater importance to big business, issues such as the popular Box Living Wage Ordinance, which I co-sponsored.

Unfortunately, in attacking City Council activism, the Tribune denigrated my neighborhood and completely ignored a long record of accomplishments in the 49th Ward.

You should know that your symbol of ward “problems, a vacant storefront pictured in the editorial, is the future site for an exciting new community arts center, which I secured for the Wisdom Bridge Arts Project. You should also be aware that we already have half the Howard St. vacancies in the process of retail and residential redevelopment.

Your editorial should have noted the construction underway for the new Howard El Station and the Gale Park Community Center, projects which I shepherded, and which will secure jobs for community residents on those projects.

You also failed to mention the $800,000 rehabilitation of the Morse El Station and the $3 million streetscape project on tap for Morse Ave. You neglected to mention my 49th Ward zoning planning process, which resulted in extensive zoning changes that will prevent overdevelopment.

Finally, you failed to note the scores of slum buildings my office turned around and my efforts to bring community policing to the 49th Ward, actions which helped lead to a nearly 50% drop in crime since I took office 15 years ago.

Clearly, the Tribune's concern is not the welfare of the 49th Ward. Rather, you'’re attacking the leadership many of us have taken on the living wage and other issues with which the Tribune and big business strongly disagree. Good aldermen (like good newspapers) have a responsibility to meeting both the local needs of their wards and the policy needs of their City. The new activism of the City Council is one to be welcomed, not attacked. I take all of my responsibilities seriously; so should this newspaper.


Joe Moore
Alderman, 49th Ward

Updated:

Wow, I just received this original letter to the editor sent out by David Fagus just after the Chicago Tribune printed the editorial. Read his call to arms from the 49th ward democrats to flood the Tribune with denoucements.

It's much different, with far more greatness attached.

Urgent Appeal for Your Help - Tribune on the Attack

Dear Friends,

The Chicago Tribune went on the attack again this weekend with a vicious editorial slamming Joe Moore and our community. We need your help. Will you please write a letter to the Tribune today? Here's the editorial:

To the editor:

For years the Tribune ridiculed the Chicago City Council as the mayor's rubber stamp and chastised the aldermen for being too parochial. Now that we are beginning to assert ourselves as equal policymaking partners with the mayor, the Tribune says were meddlesome and tells us to just focus on matters in our own wards (“The Chicago Folly Council” Oct. 1).

Apparently it’s ok to be a rubberstamp for the mayor as long as it is in keeping with the Tribune’s editorial viewpoints.

I am proud that 48 of my colleagues joined me in standing up for compassion and humanity by following the lead of fifteen nations in banning a product of egregious cruelty. And I am pleased that, while he expressed reservations about the ban, Mayor Daley signed the measure into law.

The Tribune claims the City Council is “preoccupied” with this issue. Really? The foie gras ban was just one of hundreds of pieces of legislation on topics as varied as zoning changes, business incentives, fee waivers and the like, which the Council considered on the day the ban was adopted.

Just who is preoccupied with the foie gras issue? The City Council, which briefly considered and passed the ban and then moved on to other pressing issues, or the Chicago Tribune, which has devoted barrels of ink to this topic and can't seem to let it go?

Perhaps more is at play here than the ban of a product that few restaurants served and few patrons consumed. Perhaps the Tribune's real concern is the City Council's growing independence on issues of far greater importance to big business and the purveyors of the status quo, such as the living wage ordinance for Big Box retailers, which I co-sponsored.

The Tribune calls the living wage ordinance a “loopy idea, but it was supported by nearly three quarters of the voting public according to an independent poll conducted by the other major daily newspaper in this town.

Unfortunately, in taking me to task for my political independence and City Council activism, the Tribune felt obligated to denigrate my neighborhood and completely ignore my long record of accomplishments in the 49th Ward.

If the Tribune had actually taken the time to conduct any meaningful research, it would have discovered that the vacant storefront pictured in the editorial is the future site of the Wisdom Bridge Arts Project Community Arts Center, and that I had convinced the previous owner of the property to sell it to the arts project at below the market price.

If the Tribune had honestly reported DevCorp North's store vacancy statistics, it would have also reported that Dev Corp disclosed to the Tribune that half the 45 vacancies on Howard Street are in the process of being redeveloped for retail and market-rate and affordable residential developments.

If the Tribune editorial was truly balanced, it would have noted the construction underway for the Howard El Station redevelopment project and the Gale Park Community Center project, both projects which I shepherded. And it would have noted my successful efforts to secure jobs for community residents at those construction sites.

The Tribune also neglected to mention the $800,000 rehabilitation of the Morse Ave. el Station and platform and the $3 million streetscape project on tap for Morse Avenue, both of which I was instrumental in securing. And the Tribune also left out the new businesses coming to Morse Avenue, including a new coffee shop and a new jazz club and restaurant. It also conveniently overlooked the revitalization of the Jarvis Square business district, across the street from my office.

If the Tribune had taken the time to speak with my 49th Ward Superintendent, it would have discovered he requires his laborers to hand sweep the alleys in addition to picking up the garbage, and that he regularly patrols the ward in the evenings and on weekends, emptying city wastebaskets and trimming overgrown weeds.

The Tribune also made no mention of the extensive community-based planning process I oversaw, which resulted in extensive zoning changes that will preserve the residential character of the neighborhood and prevent overdevelopment.

Finally, the Tribune failed to note the scores of slum buildings my office has turned around and my efforts to bring community policing to the 49th Ward, which helped lead to a nearly 50 percent drop in crime since I first took office 15 years ago.

My record more than amply demonstrates that a good alderman can both successfully oversee the issues affecting his community and help shape city policy. Clearly, the Tribune'’s concern is not the welfare of the 49th Ward residents. Rather, it is the fact that I have taken leadership positions on issues with which the Tribune strongly disagrees.

These are issues on which people of good will can disagree. I hope in the future the Tribune focuses on the merits of the arguments, rather than running down my neighborhood and taking cheap and diversionary shots against those of us who dare to challenge the status quo.

* Jake CP Fires Back - Again

Ultra conservative, urban, right wing, teenage vlogger Jake CP from Lincoln Park has issued yet another warning to the 'Broken Heart' of Rogers Park. Stop questioning his republican sincerity or stop watching Jake's Chicago Politics. Sorry Jake CP, even though I believe you're a hoax, I'm hooked.

* Special Parking For Special People

When I go to any community development meeting, I always hear the complaints from almost every neighbor who attends, all the complaining about the trouble of finding parking spaces. But lookie at the photograph above. While other's suffer when it comes to parking in Rogers Park, 49th ward democratic committeeman David Fagus gets a special spot in the Block building when he can't find a spot for his car down the street in front of his own condo.

* Parking is never a problem for Fagus.

As the community struggles with the multitude of problems in and around the 1345 West Lunt building, David Fagus can find a safe retreat for his auto, right next to the Ashland Viking Nation gang logo that has been there since David started parking in the Block building.

Look closely, David Fagus parks his car in Block building's - AVN's Killa King specially marked spot. I told you the gangs owned this building. If the Chicago Police did a contact card on Fagus, would that David's street name, Killa King?

Isn't that special - exclusive parking for Joe Moore's main political lapdog - David Fagus. It's no wonder we can't remove the gangs from the Block building. If we did, Moore's pal Fagus wouldn't have a safe spot to park.

* Jake CP Fires Back @ the 'Broken Heart'

The 'Broken Heart' Responds

A week ago I called Jake CP - politics version of lonelygirl 115 on the Capitol Fax blog. Boy, did young Jake CP get mad. I just found out today Jake's firing back at me for calling him a hoax in the above new You-Tube video he made in defense of what I view as a shameless, well-scripted republican puppet show, using a 14 year old city kid.

Why am I not buying Jake's You Tube propaganda? Here's why.

Jake is going up against the entire democratic ticket, all because his one school book got blown up by a alleged firecracker. That sure seems weak. Couldn't he have requested a newer book? After all, Jake CP says he goes to Lincoln Park High School. In 2006, Newsweek magazine listed Lincoln Park High School one of the best high schools in the nation. So, this has to be one of the better public schools in the city, right?

Who's know's if it wasn't Jake himself who alleged blew up his school book with a firecracker to give his political hoax a greater ka-boom?

What's really the issue with Jake CP hating the all us democrats?

Is Jake mad Governor Blagojevich didn't give him a $1500 birthday check when he was 10 years old?

Maybe Jake doesn't like Jesse White because Jake didn't make the tumbling team when he tried out last year? I don't know.

Or maybe Jake's parents and grandparents never got a job working for the city or county under Stroger administration?

* Boy Flees Scene After Being Shot in the Back

Around rush hour, 5:15 pm-ish, there were calls of shots fired from a gun in the 7600 block of North Paulina. Witnesses say a boy in his teens - wearing a black jacket with a gold stripe down the sides of the jacket, was alleged shot in the back.

A witness said the guy who got shot in the back alleged jumped into a green van and took off.

The alleged offender and gun, a possible 380 automatic, headed west on Jonquil. He was said to be between 6 foot and 6 foot 2 inches tall, about 160lbs. The shooter was said to have short braided hair.

By the time the police officers got on scene, the alleged offender and alleged victim had left the scene for safer ground.

After checking area hospitals, the police found the 18 or 19-year-old victim at Evanston Hospital. He is not cooperating with the police. No word who will be covering his un-cooperative shooting victims hospital bill at this time.

Blognotes: In case you're not keeping track, that's two incidents of crime reported that the victim has refused police help in the past two day's.

* A Father Speaks to the 'Broken Heart'

Posted in the comments section yesterday.

I'm Paul's father. Paul was raised in Rogers Park and our family still lives here.

I can understand the attitude of "He's 19. Let him do what he wants." The difference here is that he left a note in his dorm room at Grinnell College indicating an intent to commit suicide. The failure to find a body after an intensive search gives us hope he either changed his mind or never intended to take his life and instead is on a walkabout.

Because there is a chance it is the former, we want to find him ASAP before he changes his mind again. We have concentrated our search efforts on Chicago because he loves the city.

But he could be anywhere.

We created a web site with a bit more information and links to posters for those interested in helping.

Steve Moore

* Rogers Park Inquiries

On Friday, October 06, 2006, one of our still active neighborhood bloggers wrote the below letter to the people who want to be in charge of the ward. It's been a couple of day's and only Thomas Westgard has responded. So much for his sabbatical.

Maybe Khreis and the 'Living Room of Rogers Park' blog doesn't get the major exposure the 'Broken Heart' does? Maybe the candidates she sent the letter to don't actually read their e-mails that's sent to them?

Why is it these candidate only want to talk when they are holding a fundraiser? Or a get-together at their campaign office?

Anyway, it would be disingenuous to say the candidates and incumbent don't read THIS blog. So there should be no excuse not to answer the questions now. That's unless you are Chris Adams who feels he can ignore the Rogers Park Neighbors.

Here are the five inquiries from Kheris...

Gordo is meeting with the citizenry tomorrow and I will miss it. So I sent the following to him, Chris Adams and Jim Ginderske:

I would like to know;

1) How Mr. XXXXX intends to deal with the gangbangers who feel confident enough to threaten civic minded individuals like Craig Gernhardt.

2) What specific ideas he has for cleaning up the Block buildings on Morse and Lunt, and ensuring that affordable housing does not equate to crime-ridden housing.

3) What specific ideas he has for bringing retail business to Morse, Sheridan and Howard Streets that amounts to more than additional dollar stores. I shop in the Loop and Evanston because there is no reason to shop in RP aside from Dominicks in Gateway because I can walk to it.

4) What specific ideas he has to assist the homeless, including those who use Loyola Park as their sleeping quarters and those who continually solicit help at the Howard El.

5) What specific ideas he has to work with CTA and the city to improve the El stops in RP. I use Loyola because it is safer than the rest and doesn't smell as bad. Jarvis is closer to my residence but is a public urinal. Howard is on a street with very little to recommend it as a safe venue for walking home.

I'll let ya know if any of them deign to actually answer a mere voter. Given RPNeighbor's experience with Adams, I am not too hopeful.
posted by Kheris at 9:13 PM

Here's the 'Living Room of Rogers Park' blog.

You're on the clock. We're waiting for the answers men. Or do we need to put a check in the 'questions for the campaign' jar?

* Sunday Morning Beatdown @ the Block Building

Leftover Blood From the Night Before

My neighbor was quite upset this morning. Shaking upset. First thing she asked me instead of saying 'good-morning' was, "Did you hear that last night Craig?"

I told her I "didn't hear a thing." See, I sleep with a high-powered fan to block out the un-wanted noise. Anyhow, because I didn't witness this little human whip-down, here's her account of what happened.

About 1:10 a.m. Sunday morning, three black guys took one male hispanic male down hard to the ground in the alley next to the Block building. They all started kicking the man who was now curled up on the cold pavement.

These three meanies kicked him in the ribs and kicked him in the stomach! Then the three bad boys started stomping up and down on the helpless hispanic guy's head! The three were dancing all over this guy's face.

This caused him to bleed in the alley!

By the time the three black guys were done beating and stomping the guy, he was life-less looking, according to my neighbor. She noticed a group of hispanic males running towards the scene from Morse Avenue. Then the three black males who were doing the major beat-down retreated and got into a car that was illegally parked in the alley next to the Block building at 1345 West Lunt.

The group of hispanic males picked their bloodied buddy off the ground and carried him back towards the Morse Avenue area.

911 was called. Everyone denied help from the police. No arrests were made, according to my neighbor. Case closed. I think not. I think we're going to see a good case of street justice in the future. It's bad enough I'm a target of a few misguided youths. Now, what's worse, I could get caught up in the cross-fire, actually getting hit.

* "Hey Cameraman, We're Gunna Getcha - Ya Bitch"

Every once in awhile I get the "hey cameraman" cat-call from the choir boys that hang out in front of the Block building. It's no secret they don't like me butting in their 'beating the neighbors up for nothing - business'. These are the youths who like to terrorize the neighborhood. A Loyola University newspaper labeled this activity - Gooning. On a couple of occasions, I've been verbally threatened and physically chased down the street by these 'goodie two-shoes' myself.

Yes, I called 911. Once, one of my neighbors in my building who has a black dog similar to mine was mistaken for me and got the 'hey cameraman' routine. He wasn't too happy and told the group it wasn't him, but he knew the guy.

Now, I got this intimidating threat from a newbie called "tiedie' in the comment section last night.

HEY U DUMB SUN OF A BITCH IT WAS NOT A GOONING WE DONT HIT FEMALE WE HIT GOOFY LOOKIN FUCKS LIKE U U THINK YOURE SUCH A FUCKING HERO BUT U GOT YO ASS PUNCHED TO WE SEE U OUT SIDE WIT YOURE DOG IM GO STAB IT IN THE EYE WHILE U GET YOUR ASS WOPED FROM THE DUDE THATS GO KILL YOUR DOG BITCH IF U GOT A PROBLEM ADRESS ME AT 1345 W LUNT OR AS U CALL IT THE BLOOCK BUILDING IL GIVE U A HINT WHO I AM CRIAG "RED"

Blognotes: Looks like I'll have to keep an even closer eye on another one of Alderman Moore's buddies slum buildings - this one formerly known as the Block building. Why? Now they are threatening Cota too.

Speaking of the Alderman and his buddies slum buildings, the 1345 West Lunt and 1340 West Morse properties have fallen deeper and deeper into the world of slum. We'll call it Super-slum!

If anyone who has walked by the Block Building, they can attest. The groups of straight A students hanging out hours and hours at a time studing.

Before you ask, yes, I've called 911.

* A Cowardly Act - Alderman Moore Backs Down

From the Sun-Times

Alderman Moore had promised to introduce a revised ordinance at Wednesday's Council meeting that would apply to all Chicago businesses with more than 1,000 employees.

Alderman Moore decided to hold off until after the February aldermanic election.

* Let's Find Paul Moore

From Toni At The 24/7 Howard Watchers Blog


This young man may be in the Rogers Park area. He is a student at Grinnell College in Grinnell Iowa and was last seen on September 25. His family is very concerned, if you know him or see him, please contact the number above.

Paul Shuman-Moore's uncles, Bob Moore and Mark Shuman, spoke to members of the media. Their statement follows:

We are speaking on behalf of Paul's parents, his sister and all of his relatives and friends. Our hearts are filled with gratitude for everyone who has taken part in the search for Paul.

To the students, faculty and staff of the college Grinnell Police and Fire Departments and other county and state agencies: thank you. Your efforts looking for Paul are phenomenal and we will never forget what you have done. We've been supported by farmers during searches, by fellow Grinnell students of Paul's who have reached out in so many ways and by local community members. All of you have expressed so much concern that we know Grinnell is a special place.

We don't know where Paul is or where he would be going. Most heart-breaking, we don't even know why he is missing. Friends and family members have left their own families and jobs t o come to Grinnell to support Paul's parents, Betsy and Steve, and his sister Nora and to search for Paul.

Family friends in Chicago have organized themselves and are circulating flyers of Paul. So many people who know him - adults, friends, college classmates and teachers say the same thing: He's a bright, level-headed, young man full of energy and laughter every day.

I want to tell you about Paul. He is an American kid. He loves music with a passion, he plays guitar and trombone. In high school his band was CawCaw!!, which played the most innovative music you'll ever hear from kids that age. The night he disappeared, he was the opening act playing solo guitar at Bob's Underground on the Grinnell campus.

Paul's listening taste is also eclectic - free jazz, alternative rock and noise - yes, that's a musical genre. He also loves Ultimate Frisbee - he played it in high school and is on the Grinnell team.

Paul is funny, thoughtful, socially-conscious, a beautiful writer and a person who will make the world a better place.

Most important, Paul's parents, family, and friends want Paul to know this.

We love you.

Nothing else matters. You need to come back to us now. We can help you with things you're dealing with.

Come home.

* All Bark - No Bite

After the Alderman made a major fuss about unexpected changes in the allocation of TIF funds, they then went ahead and green-lighted the bonds for those changes with hardly a peep.

* National Night Out 2005

I've been waiting and waiting for the CAPS 24 website to update the minutes for beat 2431. We're missing August and September. But, I did find this. Sonny Hersh Productions has put together a video of the 2005 24th district CAPS national night out. Enjoy.

* Not So Human Services

On Monday, the Human Services Mobile van pulled into Loyola Park at Morse Avenue and the lake as I expected it would. At first glance this would have been a good thing, had it not been for public pressure to do something about the homeless situation.

But instead of offering check-ups or hygiene kits from the human services mobile van, the people got this. A yellow card. That's right, the big health care van had no food, no check up equipment, no clothing, just a yellow cards to hand out.

Any help is good help when you don't have anything. But a yellow card?

The person I spoke with said the whole thing was a joke. He explained to me all he wants is a job. If he had a job he could get his own apartment. He could buy his own food. He could get his own clothes. He could go to the doctor of his choice.

With all the tax dollars spent on this big mobile health care van, you would think the city could offer more than a yellow cards. Heck, he didn't even want a yellow card. So, he gave it to me.

* Chicago Tribune Rips Alderman Moore

It's Sunday morning in the Wisconsin Dells. Of course the hotel has a Chicago Tribune in the lobby. Any good hotel 300 miles around the Chicagoland area does.

As I got to the Tribunes famed editorial section, my eye lit up. What's this I see? The Chicago Tribune is printing what I have been telling you for years.

Out of all the 50 Alderman, our very own Alderman Moore got singled out and raked thoroughly over the coals for being a, get this now, a do nothing Alderman in his community. Our Alderman isn't doing his job.

Here's one juicy quote from one of our neighbors. A quote that looks like the reader was reading this website.

"Our neighborhood is out of sorts. The alleys are never, ever cleaned. If we don't do things for ourselves, it doesn't get done," said Judy Bernardi.

Judy. Judy. Judy. Tell us something didn't already know. Like I said, just read the Hell Hole.

I'm sure that the Moore political spin machine is in full motion. Mr. No Foie Gras will have DevCorp North, RPCC, Kevin O'Neil at CAPS and David Fagus defending his honor with vigor. Actually Fagus has already started, being the good lap dog he is. He's one of the people the Chicago Tribune calls "his fans in the 49th ward."

Blognotes: I had a darn good weekend - results wise. I did make one very nasty crash early on. I recovered nicely. On Saturday, I finished 4th in class out of 19 riders. On Sunday a couple more riders signed up making my class size 21 riders. I bettered my results on day two, just missing victory by one point. Funny thing, I only scored one point though-out the entire day. The winner had a perfect day riding, making no mistakes. This was a great way to finish the event. I was nearly on top in a epic battle that went down to the wire. Hat's off to Barry Tope from Minnesota.

When I returned to the city, my e-mail box was full of mail regarding the Tribune editorial. I even got a couple of phone calls. I guess my readers didn't think Wisconsin got Illinois news? Well folks, they do. And get this, now Alderman Moore is known as a major idiot up there too.