Wilson Yard Naming Rights?

Tuesday, July 31, 2007 | | 0 comments | Bookmark and Share


More Historical Uptown Photos

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Our thanks to "Koocachoo72" from BPN for sending in these photos from Uptown's heyday. They are from the University of Minnesota Library. Enjoy.
The "Viceroy Hotel," at Lawrence and Kenmore.
Entrance to the "Uptown Broadway Building."

Corner of Broadway and Lawrence.

Lawrence and Winthrop, currently condos, "Kinetic Playground," and Chase Bank
"Cook Department Store," 4720 N Broadway, currently Borders Book Store and condos.
Under the El tracks at Broadway and Leland.


"Rublof and Wolack Building" at the corner of Wilson and Clarendon

Hope for the Wilson El Station?

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This t-shirt design from the Chicago Reader Blogs made us chuckle. We just may have to wait till 2016 to see our station rehabbed.

Crazy Chicken Coming to Uptown

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It appears that a new fast food restaurant, "El Pollo Loco," will be opening at Wilson and Sheridan at the site of the former Blight, I mean, "Burger King" this fall. Our thanks to "asurfc2" from BPN for finding this. This will be the second "El Pollo Loco" in Chicago. Welcome, El Pollo Loco!

Uptown Business Spotlight

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Those residents who complain that there is not enough retail in Uptown have surely not been to the "Wilson Broadway Mall" at the same intersection. We've been in several times and are amazed at the things you can buy there. We came across used computer monitors, used televisions and electronics, a small booth that sells nothing but used shoes, and several booths that sell ethnic music and DVDs for every taste. You can also pick up clothing with clever sayings such as "Warning: Pimp Zone, All Violators Will Be Bitch Slapped." The ambiance is enhanced by the music that is played at high levels to add to your shopping experience. For those of you who want to check out "Uptown Update" while you are shopping, you can take a quick break and visit the "Internet Chat Room" to surf the web. We sadly noticed many empty booths in the mall and we can now add these to our "Vacant Storefront Showcase."

Uptown Fire Station Garden

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Taken today at Wilson and Racine.

Bridgeview Bank Beauty

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Does anyone else think the landscaping in front of Bridgeview Bank at Broadway and Lawrence looks really nice? It has really spruced up that intersection.

Uptown On The Prairie

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We have been wondering whats up with this huge lot in the 4600 block of Malden. It has been empty for sometime now. A park would be nice. Anyone have info on this?

Vacant Storefront Showcase

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Here are several vacant storefronts near Sheridan and Ainslie. The first one was formerly the sales center of the "Sheridan Grande" development. Contact info is on the sign.

This second series of storefronts is the ground floor retail of the "Sheridan Grande" development. We counted at least 3 possible storefronts. Interested parties should contact the number on the sign above, as "SR Commercial" is handling both properties.

Where The Grass and Retail Won't Grow

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This is the view on the side and in front of the stripmall at Lawrence and Sheridan. There are also several vacant storefronts in this complex. Wouldn't a "Fed-Ex Kinkos" or a "Sprint Store" be nice in this location? We imagine that more businesses would move into this stripmall if it looked a little more inviting and a little less like "Death Valley" outside.

Uptown Historical Map, 1928

Monday, July 30, 2007 | | 2 comments | Bookmark and Share

Here's another fascinating item from the "Jazz Age Chicago" website and Scott A. Newman. Our kudos to him and the research it took to piece this map together. Check it out here:

Somerset Hotel History

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The Somerset Hotel at 5009 North Sheridan Road was one of several multi-story apartment hotels built in Chicago's Uptown district during the 1920s. Opened for guests in 1920, the eight-story hotel cost a reported $2 million to build. It was desinged by owner-architect Samuel N. Crowen and contained a total of 441 fully-furnished rooms arranged in 205 suites of one to four rooms each. One-room suites contained a living room, dressing room, and bath without dining facilities, while larger apartments included a sun parlor, separate bedroom, and dining room with kitchenette. All rooms were completely and luxuriously furnished. Opening-year advertisements promoted the hotel as both an "exclusive summer resort" and a year-round residential hotel. One described the hotel as "the ideal dwelling place for those desiring the homelike atmosphere and privacy of an apartment combined with all the modern conveniences of a hotel."

Arcadia Ballroom History

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Opened in 1910 as a combination dance hall and skating rink, the Arcadia Ballroom, situated along the west side of Broadway just north of Montrose Avenue, was one of the Uptown district's best known entertainment destinations. During the 1920s, the ballroom became one of the city's most popular dance establishments and stood as one of the few places in the city where white audiences regularly danced to the music of all-black jazz bands. The driving force behind the Arcadia's popularity, particularly during the late 1910s and 1920s, was sports and dance promoter Paddy Harmon, whose interests included the Dreamland Ballroom and Chicago Stadium on the near west side.

The View From 46 Years Ago

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We came across this photo on the "Chicago L. org" site from the IRM Collection courtesy of Peter Vesic. The photo was taken in the spring of 1961 on the Wilson El platform facing north.

Wilson Platform to Truman College

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Here is a short video we came across on YouTube. We doubt the filmmaker will win any awards for this video and you may need a dramamine after watching it, but it does give an interesting view of the Wilson El station if you have never used it.

Rehab Roundup

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We came across several rehabs in the neighborhood. The first one is at Sunnyside and Clifton. We are not sure if this rehab is for rentals or condos, perhaps someone who lives nearby has info on this. There is an interesting flag draped over the back porch on the left. We wonder who could live there.
This next rehab is at Magnolia and Sunnyside. The building has been restored to its former glory. The detail on the building is beautiful with turquoise terracotta lining the top near the roof.
This last building is on the 4600 block of Dover at Wilson. Again, we are not sure if this building is being gutted for rentals or condos. The building is enormous and used to feature a huge garden in the front lawn. That has since been removed, and an underground sprinkler system added. Workers have been seen most everyday in the building. If you have info on this building, feel free to add it in the comments.

Aldi Etching and Tags

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Wilson Yard Not On Schedule?

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From the looks of the Azusa building and the Wilson Yard lot, construction is behind schedule. We stopped by the site today and noticed not much has changed since our last visit.

From the Pioneer-Press:
"Last month, the City Council approved increasing Wilson Yard's TIF subsidy from $35.6 million to $43.1 million, stipulating that construction begin on the Target and residential units no later than July. Holsten attributed the increase to a 15 percent rise in construction costs and materials.Holsten told task force members and a handful of residents attending the mid-morning meeting that toxic soil removal had already begun on the site. Demolition of the old Aldi's and the Azusa Building will start in July."

Well, its July 30 and the Azusa building and old Aldi are still intact and there is no sign of construction on Target or the residential units. Hmmmmmmm. Shocking.

Name That Arch

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Uptown Business Spotlight

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If you have been looking for a pilates studio in the neighborhood, look no further than the "Chase Park Commons" development near Clark and Leland and the "From the Center Pilates Studio." Check out their website for more info.

Malden Garden

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'Vis Vitae' Update

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The "Vis Vitae" development at Clark and Leland has a website which is now almost up. Word has been spreading of "Starbucks" joining the ground floor retail of this building. When we find out what other retailers you can expect, we will let you know.

Sunshine Garden Shines On

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An "Updater" sent in a nice pic of the progress made on the "Sunshine Garden" on Clarendon just south of Wilson. The garden features 15 pieces of artwork by local Uptown kids and really looks great. If you get a chance, check it out.

Signs, Signs, Everywhere A Sign

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Seen near Sunnyside and Clarendon.

More Terracotta at the Riv

Friday, July 27, 2007 | | 5 comments | Bookmark and Share

Is There Any Excuse For This in Uptown?

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This fellow was seen sitting on a piece of cardboard behind dumpsters next to Ace Hardware on Broadway.

New 'Fat Cat' Signage

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'Abstract' Graff Art

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Looks like some Uptown youngsters have been experimenting in a new type of "graff art." From the looks of this giant pink paint splatter on the Lawrence side of a condo building at Malden, the artists prefer "abstract." We noticed a white plastic shell covered in pink paint on the sidewalk. Lovely.

Loiterer's Paradise, Part Two

Thursday, July 26, 2007 | | 4 comments | Bookmark and Share





These photos were sent in by an "Updater." The photos clearly show the loitering taking place across from the World Gym on the northside of Montrose. If you think that "Dearborn Wholesale Grocers" should be held responsible for the activity taking place in their parking lot, give them a call at 773-728-7500.

Wilson Yard Reports

Wednesday, July 25, 2007 | | 1 comments | Bookmark and Share


Another Farmer's Market, Compare and Contrast

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This photo was sent in today by an "Updater" of a Farmer's Market downtown near Water Tower Place. Compare and contrast this with our current Farmer's Market offering.

No Immunizations or State ID's Issued at This Fest

Tuesday, July 24, 2007 | | 5 comments | Bookmark and Share

An organizer of the "Family Fun Fair" at Chase Park wrote in and wanted us to pass along info on their upcoming fest. This doesn't appear to be a festival where you can purchase illegal purse knock-offs or used shoes either. Be warned.

Location: Chase Park, 4701 N. Ashland (at Ashland and Leland)
Date: Friday, July 27, 2007
Time: 4:30pm till dusk, followed by a free movie in the park
Description: Come join us for an afternoon of fun for the whole family! Activities include pony rides, face painting, games, live entertainment, dunk tank, bounce houses, relay races and arts & crafts. Food, drinks and treats will be sold. At dusk, stay for the free movie in the park, "ET, The Extra-Terrestrial."
Admission: Some activities are ticketed. All activities to support the Chase Park Playground renovation and Community Building Tutors NFP. Movie in the Park is free. We need the community to come together to improve our park!
Sponsored By: Chase Park Advisory Council, Ravenswood Chamber of Commerce, Community Building Tutors NFP, and 47th Ward Alderman Gene Schulter
Questions: contact chaseparkplayground@yahoo.com

Another Uptown 'Graff Wall'

Monday, July 23, 2007 | | 21 comments | Bookmark and Share

Seen near Broadway and Sheridan. "Graffti Busters," anyone?

Loiterer's Paradise

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This was sent in by our Buena Park correspondent, "Buena Boy." Loitering continues to be a problem at the famed "Hotel Chateau" at Broadway and Sheridan as well as in Gill Park next door. "Buena Boy" witnessed a manager come out of the building, when this picture was made, and attempt to force the loiterers to leave, or call the police.

Unity At Its Finest

Saturday, July 21, 2007 | | 2 comments | Bookmark and Share

Cub Reporter walked over to Truman College to experience the Uptown Unity Festival on this beautiful Saturday afternoon. In case you aren't able to attend, here are some of the events going on.
A "graff wall" was being constructed for artists to showcase their skills with spray paint.
Until the wall is complete, some kids were practicing their artwork on a piece of plywood.

If walls aren't your thing, you can always apply spray paint to a t-shirt!
An aspiring young entertainer serenaded the audience with her unique blend of shouting and rap.
Weiss Hospital offered blood pressure checks, immunizations and expert manicures.
Why venture all the way down to Michigan Avenue when you can purchase the Louis Vuitton, Kate Spade or Prada purse you were eyeing right at the Uptown Unity festival!

In addition to new purses, you can buy used shoes at the Uptown Unity festival. Who needs to go to DSW when Truman College has all of the latest looks.
And, something for the kids - inflatables of their favorite cartoon character.
If you check this post out before 5 p.m. on Saturday, you can experience unity at the festival too!

Skate Park Fence Needs Repaired ASAP

Friday, July 20, 2007 | | 3 comments | Bookmark and Share

Craig Gernhardt, 'The Broken Heart of Rogers Park' blogger, wrote in telling us about this fence at the skate park at Wilson and Lake Shore Drive that has been broken for weeks. The park has become a showcase for out of town skaters and has proven to be very popular, but now the broken fence is a real danger and reflects badly on our ward. This broken fence even affects those playing softball nearby. Let's get this fixed before someone is hurt.

Why Was This Left Off The Banners?

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Walking by the Wilson El stop today, we noticed the weeds continue to grow like, well....weeds, out of the top of the station. We wonder why this was left out of the new Uptown banners showcasing this once great station. Shame on the CTA for letting this architectural beauty decay to this point.

Thank Goodness The 'Unity Fest' Is Tomorrow

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From the looks of this crumbling CTA pillar at Broadway and Leland near Ace-Hardware, we could really use some unity.

Community Meeting for Theatre District Lofts Phase 2 & 3 Set for August 9 at 7pm

Thursday, July 19, 2007 | | 4 comments | Bookmark and Share

There will be a community meeting for those interested in the status of the "Theatre District Lofts Phase 2 and 3" development on August 9 at 7:00pm in the Aragon Ballroom at Lawrence and Winthrop. Jim Gouskos, developer, is hosting the meeting along with others involved in the project. Phase 2 consists of the condominium tower located south of Phase 1. The movie theatre/retail section (currently the site of the Aragon parking lot) located at Lawrence and Winthrop is Phase 3.
Mr. Gouskos has made complimentary parking available for those attending the meeting in the lot across from the Aragon. Plans and updated renderings will be available at the meeting.

Who Needs Target?

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Who needs a Target when we have more Uptown entrepreneurs setting up shop on Broadway and Wilson? Today's vendor sat in a folding chair right on the corner with a "wheelie suitcase" full of shampoo and soap opened up on the sidewalk. No sign of our previous hat and bag selling vendors as they are being investigated by the city. We have a feeling that this current vendor's days are numbered as well.

Name the Location

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CTA Duct Tape

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Seen on the north wall of the Lawrence El stop overpass.

Uptown's Own 'Graff Wall'

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And Then There Was Terra Cotta

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We are now getting the first glimpse of the new terra cotta being added to the Riviera Building at Lawrence and Broadway. Looks like the folks doing the restoration are trying very hard to stay true to the buildings original appearance, which is great. New brick is being added as we write this. Our thanks to Larry Leland from BPN for tipping us off to the new addition. We were unable to view the pics he uploaded to BPN so we went over and took some ourselves.

Schools Serve Meals During the Summer

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By Lorraine Swanson
Pioneer Press News-Star

Chicago Public School students don't have to go hungry this summer thanks to the Seamless Summer Option program that is keeping most public school cafeterias open during the summer break.
Sponsored by the U.S. Department of Agriculture and supported by the Illinois State Board of Education, communities where at least 50 percent of children are eligible for free and reduced-price meals during the regular school year are offering the program to all children age 18 and under. Children do not need to be enrolled at participating schools during the summer or regular school year to receive a free breakfast or lunch.
"Our schools serve as important feeding centers for children in low-income families during the school year, and we want to make sure they can continue that critically important role over the summer," CPS Chief Executive Officer Arne Duncan said.
CPS is also teaming up with the Illinois Hunger Coalition which is helping to get the word out about the program through schools, churches and community organizations. Last summer, the federally-sponsored program served more than 4.7 million meals to low-income kids in neighborhoods across the city.
"When you have families that are very low income, kids are often on their own during the day when parents are working. When parents find out there is some place where kids can get fed, they're excited," said Diane Doherty, executive director of the Illinois Hunger Coalition.
Cafeterias will close, however, when high school summer programs end Aug. 3, Aug. 10 or Aug. 17, per the school's discretion. Doherty said the Illinois Hunger Coalition is working to line up churches and other sites that can continue offering the summer food program until Chicago Public Schools re-open for the regular school year on Sept. 4.
Anyone who is interested in the Seamless Summer food program can call the Illinois Hunger Coalition's toll-free hotline at 1-800-359-2163 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday (Spanish available), or call the neighborhood school to see if free summer meals are being offered. Churches and other facilities with refrigeration and dining space who wish to help continue serving free meals to kids until school starts in the fall, should also contact the Illinois Hunger Coalition's toll-free hotline.
The following schools are offering free meals through Aug. 18. Some schools may ask kids for an ID or address to show that students live in the neighborhood.
Amundsen High School, 5110 N. Damen Ave. Breakfast, 7:15 to 8 a.m. and lunch, 10:55 to 11:15 a.m., Monday through Friday.
Lakeview High School, 4015 N. Ashland Ave. Lunch, 10 to 10:45 a.m., Monday through Friday.
Mather High School, 5835 N. Lincoln Ave. Breakfast, 7:30 to 8 a.m. and lunch, 10 to 10:30 a.m., Monday through Friday.
Roosevelt High School, 3436 W. Wilson Ave. Breakfast, 7:30 to 7:55 a.m. and lunch, 11:45 a.m. to 12:15 p.m., Monday through Friday.
Senn High School, 5900 N. Glenwood Ave., Noon to 12:30 p.m., Monday through Friday.

Wanna Vandalize Like a Pro?

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An "Updater" sent in this advertisement for the "Kuumba Lynx Urban Arts," who will be at the "Uptown Unity Fest" on July 21. If you would like a lesson in how to deface public property and disguise it as "graff art" then this is for you. And while you're at the Unity Fest, don't forget to get the kiddies immunized or pick up a new state ID. This is truly family fun that can only be brought to you by the 46th Ward.

'Deep Thought' of the Day

Wednesday, July 18, 2007 | | 8 comments | Bookmark and Share

Courtesy of a resident of the "Wilson Club Hotel" as seen from the El platform. Sent in by an "Updater."

Shooting on Clark

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Police were summoned to Clark and Winnemac after receiving a call of shots fired around 2:30 a.m. July 7. Police surveyed the area and found no signs that a crime had occurred. Later that morning, police were summoned to Illinois Masonic Hospital to interview a a 20-year-old man who had been in the La Primera Restaurant parking lot at 5016 N. Clark St. The victim was standing in the parking lot talking to a female who was sitting inside a car, when a male in his late teens came up in another vehicle and started yelled at the victim. The male, who had a bandana covering his nose and mouth, shot the victim and took off, fleeing southbound on Clark. The victim's friends took him in their own car to the hospital. The victim sustained a gunshot wound to the chest and is listed in serious condition. (News-Star)

Committee Approves Zoning for SRO Facility

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By LORRAINE SWANSON Staff Writer
Pioneer Press News-Star

The Chicago City Council's Committee on Zoning approved a zoning change for a Single-Room Occupancy, or SRO, facility at the former Carmen Manor Nursing Home that has divided residents along the Uptown/Andersonville border.

Members of the zoning committee voted unanimously on July 12 to recommend upzoning the property at 1470 W. Carmen Ave. that will allow for greater density. Two non-profit organizations, Heartland Housing, a division of Heartland Alliance, and International Consultants and Associates, plan to share the building's living space. The zoning committee's recommendation is expected to go before the City Council for a full vote later this month or next month.

Heartland to purchase nursing home
Heartland Housing is putting the financing together to purchase the nursing home, which has been vacant for several years. The property will be leased to International Consultants and Associates, which will manage the facility.

Resident who oppose the SRO took issue with Heartland's plan to house persons living with HIV/AIDS who are clients of its Rafael House program. During a community meeting with Alderman Helen Shiller, 46th, last month, many residents cited past problems with Uptown SROs, saying tenants panhandled and caused other disturbances in the neighborhood.

"Many of the people who would have liked to have been here today are working like yourselves. An SRO does not fit in our community," said Uptown resident Annie Claussen, who lives on the same block as the proposed SRO.

"We have many new restaurants, bars, a health club, and lots of new, small shops trying to develop business. They want to prosper. They need an environment that customers will feel safe visiting and patronizing," Claussen added.

Residents sign petition
Claussen presented a petition signed by 67 residents, 85 percent of whom live within a few blocks of the proposed SRO. Claussen also questioned how many Single-Room Occupancies there are per capita in the 46th Ward. Residents have frequently remarked that the 46th Ward has a disproportionate number compared to other wards in the city.

Shiller could not specifically give the number of SROs in her testimony before the zoning committee.

"We have many SROs in our community, although I think there are a number of wards and communities, including Lincoln Park, that have comparable numbers," Shiller said, stating that her office had received many calls and letters supporting the SRO.

Some favor SRO
Uptown resident Heather Rakes spoke in favor of the SRO.

"I'm not afraid of this population living in this neighborhood," Rakes said, referring to the Rafael House residents.

Andrew Geer, executive director of Heartland Housing, said that he expected to close the sale of the property in September. The hard part now, Geer said, was winning the confidence of those residents who opposed the project.

"We are going to be a responsive owner and landlord. At the end of the day, we take that responsibility to the community very seriously. We don't view today as, 'we won.' This is our first step to building community trust," Geer said.

Alta Vista Terrace

Tuesday, July 17, 2007 | | 2 comments | Bookmark and Share



If you haven't had a chance to walk down Alta Vista Terrace and check out the amazing rowhomes, it's something you need to consider. You can get to this slightly secluded street by taking Sheridan south of Irving Park to Byron, taking a right and then a left on Alta Vista Terrace. Check out the pics.

Wilson Yard Progress...Zilch

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What's Being Built Here?

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We noticed this parcel of land from the El tracks today, right before exiting at Sheridan southbound. We remember seeing a sign for an auction for this land (at Irving Park and Kenmore) a while back and wonder who actually purchased it and what is being done with it. We are guessing maybe some sort of park? Anyone who lives in this area know? Anyone?

Stairway to Heaven

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We know these Wilson El station stairs have been completed for a couple weeks but this was the first chance we had to use this entrance on the south side of Wilson. The dated Truman College mural (covered in graffiti) also appears to have been removed from the stairwell. Seeing these new stairs made us yearn for the day in the distant future when this station will finally be rehabbed. We can dream, can't we?

Guns for Giftcards

Monday, July 16, 2007 | | 0 comments | Bookmark and Share

Saturday July 21, 2007

TIME: 10:00am to 4:00pm

WHERE: Uptown Baptist Church
1011 W. Wilson
Chicago, IL 60640
773 784-2922

WHAT: a “NO QUESTIONS ASKED” gun turn in

HOW: Anyone can bring an unloaded gun, (firearm- shotgun, rifle,
automatic, semi- automatic, pistol or revolver) to any one of 23
locations and receive a $100 Prepaid MasterCard per gun.
Attendees may bring in a BB, replica or air gun and receive a
$10 Prepaid MasterCard per gun
More Information

Seen Around Uptown

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Vacant Storefront Showcase on Broadway

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Tonight we feature the continuation of "Vacant Storefront Showcase on Broadway."All of these storefronts can be found on Broadway from Lawrence to Irving Park. Once again, if you would like to forward this post to real estate developers or budding Uptown entrepreneurs, feel free to do so by clicking the email icon at the end of this post.

Name the Location

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We would like to see how well our readers know Uptown area architecture. Can you name the location of this particular terra-cotta face? It may be too easy. The winner will receive nothing except the admiration of their peers. Enjoy.

Art Gallery Coming at Leland and Racine

Sunday, July 15, 2007 | | 0 comments | Bookmark and Share

Last night we spotted a construction notice on the window of Heartland Alliance's Leland building on the corner of Leland and Racine. Construction has started on the lower level retail space next to ONE's lovely new office. According to the construction notice, an art gallery/studio is slated for the spot. No other info was available. If anyone has information, feel free to add it to the comment section.

Montrose Dog Beach

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Most Uptown residents with dogs are frequent visitors of the "Montrose Dog Beach." We will be adding a link to their blog on the right. You can sign up for updates on dog beach events or make donations. If you haven't checked it out, you should. It is a definite asset to Uptown.

"The Montrose Dog Beach is currently the only legal off-leash beach with in the city of Chicago. The dog beach is located on the Northwest corner of Montrose Beach (the point closest to the city). Just follow Wilson Avenue until it curves to the left at the lake. Look for the big corrugated steel walls of the old Boat Launch, and you’re there. The entrance to the beach is to the right (south) of the boat launch, at the end of the path, down the rockwall. There’s a gate in the black fence."

Lawrence and Clark Construction Update

Saturday, July 14, 2007 | | 1 comments | Bookmark and Share

The area around Lawrence and Clark is seeing a huge construction and rehab boom. Today we noticed that the beautiful building right on the corner, named "Lawrence," appears to be being gutted judging by the windows being removed and retail now closed.
Next door at Rainbo Village, progress remains steady. We now have word from a resident who just purchased in this development that "Panera" has signed on to fill the ground-level retail as well as a "Tea" shop. Our fingers are crossed that it is Argo Tea.
We have also received word that "Lincoln Towing Service" has been sold and a new development will be replacing it. You can see the "Lincoln Towing Service" on the far right in the pic above. The amount of development that has taken place in this block is also apparent with the blue scaffolding in front of yet another upcoming condo building.

Goodbye 'Clarkview,' Hello 'Vis Vitae'

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The development at the corner of Leland and Clark formerly known as "Clarkview" has been rebranded as "Vis Vitae." We had heard the previous developer lost funding, then construction ran into ground water drainage problems. No website listed yet but it looks like there will be quite a bit of retail space to fill. From the looks of Alderman Schulter's 47th Ward, including Lincoln Square and Ravenswood, there shouldn't be as much trouble filling this retail.

Jesus People USA School Coming Soon

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We noticed a "Public Notice" sign on this building near Wilson and Sheridan (across from Joan Arai School) announcing the upcoming Jesus People USA school. It appears it will be taking up the ground floor of this building.

It's A Sign of the Times

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A Tree Would Look Great Right About Here...

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Seen near the "46th Ward Community Service Office" for quite some time now.

Would You Like Blight With That?

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Jerry Olson needs to be contacted again about the property he has listed at Sheridan and Wilson. This former Burger King site is no longer secure as the weak, chain link fence around the site has been pushed down. The site is overrun with weeds and trash and we came across what appears to be an area in the drive-thru that someone is now calling home but happened to be away at the time. You can contact Jerry Olson at Epic-Savage Realty Partners at 312-961-1011. He should be able to get the ball rolling on getting the property cleaned up and secured. Notifying the Alderman's office couldn't hurt either.

Holsten Hotel

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Out for a walk two nights ago, we noticed some folks had pulled mattresses and blankets over to the front of the old Aldi store and were sleeping in the entrance. Today we noticed some of the remnants of the bedding on the site and also a new sleeping area behind a dumpster on the site. We hope that Mr. Holsten is monitoring what takes place on this site because we will be.

'Three Harmony' Chinese Restaurant

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If you love good Chinese food as much as we do, then you have to check out "Three Harmony" in Magnolia Plaza at Wilson and Magnolia. "Three Harmony" features an extensive menu of Cantonese and Mandarin cuisine and some of the most reasonable prices around. They offer a lunch special from 11-3pm Monday through Saturday starting at $4.50 and that includes a large portioned entree, rice, an egg roll and a drink. Be sure to try the crab rangoons which are some of the best we've tasted.
We've found all the entrees to be generously portioned and very delicious. "Three Harmony" also delivers. Orders can be placed at 773-728-6376.

Vacant Storefront Showcase on Broadway

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Someone obviously wants people to know this building has space to rent in the 4600 block of Broadway (across from the Wilson El vacant storefronts) judging by the number of "Store for Rent" signs in the window. This is one beautiful building and with a little TLC, it could be restored to its former glory. We know there are quite a few other vacant storefronts on Broadway and we will be featuring them, but we felt this one deserved its own post. If you know someone who would be interested in this building, just click the pic and the numbers to call are easily visible. You can also email this post by clicking the email letter icon at the end of the post.

'Fat Cat' Opening July 17

Friday, July 13, 2007 | | 5 comments | Bookmark and Share

Hey folks, mark your calendars for Tuesday, July 17. An "Updater" wrote in telling us that the "Fat Cat" restaurant at 4840 N. Broadway (next to Marigold and the Annoyance Theatre) will be opening for business then. We look forward to the outdoor seating and a new option for eating in the neighborhood.

Uptown United to Use 'Asset Mapping'

Wednesday, July 11, 2007 | | 9 comments | Bookmark and Share

Asset Mapping. What is it? We wondered what this term meant after reading about it on the "Uptown United" site. This project started in Uptown on July 5 and will continue through August 18. We did a google search and came across the following from a Michigan State University "Best Practice Briefs."

“Community Asset Mapping is a capacity-focused way of redeveloping devastated communities. This positive approach is proposed as a substitute for the traditional deficits focus on a community’s needs and problems. Using problems to formulate human service interventions targets resources to service providers rather than residents, fragments efforts to provide solutions, places reliance on outside resources and outside experts, and leads to a maintenance and survival mentality rather than to community development."

Let's hope the mappers notice the plethora of vacant storefronts on both Wilson and Broadway. This "Full Circle" program was already implemented in Rogers Park over 2 years ago, according to Craig from 'Broken Heart.' We suppose its up to debate whether or not it was successful there and whether it can be successful in Uptown. Check out the comments on this post for more info on what to expect once this study concludes in Uptown. Unfortunately, it appears that Uptown United won't learn anything more from this "mapping" than what the average informed Uptown resident already knows.

Wilson Yard Annual Report

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Download it HERE

Riviera and Uptown Broadway Building Progress Update

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The last time we visited the Riviera Building at Lawrence and Broadway it was in disarray, but a good disarray. Today we noticed that much of the building has been repaired and it looks like bricks will soon be added back to the facade. Workers were hard at work today throwing debris out of the windows. At this rate, we should be seeing windows installed soon.

Across the street, the Uptown Broadway Building has been seeing a lot of action too. Most of the sidewalk in front of the building has been removed, revealing the large basement space below. We're sure that this part of the building has not seen the light of day in a long, long time.

'Vacant Storefront Showcase' Wilson Avenue from Beacon Street to Broadway

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Today starts a new series we'd like to call "Vacant Storefront Showcase." We will be featuring vacant storefronts throughout Uptown in the hope that a renter/real estate developer will step in and bring retail and dining back to the neighborhood. Feel free to forward this post to any businesses or real estate developers you see fit. If you have a vacant storefront in your neck of the woods, email it to us and we will feature it in the next showcase. Today we feature vacant storefronts on the "Wilson Avenue Retail Corridor" from Beacon to Broadway, a mere 4 blocks and nearly 15 empty storefronts. We did not include the "Spotted Pig" location, as that appears to be up in the air at the moment. Also, three of the larger buildings have more than one retail spot open, but for the sake of space we are only showing one.

Rabbi: Burglars 'cleaned us out'

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By Lorraine Swanson
Pioneer-Press

Last week, someone enjoyed a Fourth of July picnic of kosher chickens, believes Rabbi Philip Lefkowitz of the Agudas Achim North Shore Congregation.
For the second time in as many weeks, burglars broke into the synagogue at 5029 N. Kenmore Ave. and "cleaned us out," Lefkowitz said.
"It happens more and more. The police come and their hearts are broken. No matter if you are a Jew, Christian or Muslim, if you're a human being and see a house of prayer robbed or vandalized, it's diabolical," Lefkowitz added.
Continued

One of Market's Only Vendors Profiled

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From 46th Ward Website:
Blue Sky Inn sells pastries and baked goods at the Uptown Farmer's Market. Blue Sky Inn is a non-profit, tax-exempt organization established to provide educational, cultural and recreational activities to at-risk youth in Chicago. The youth in their programs are between the ages of fourteen and twenty-four. Blue Sky Inn exists to empower our youth to regain the opportunities and options that have been taken from them.

Hai Yen Roach

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A visit to their Web site boasts that the Hai Yen restaurant on the North Side produces such Vietnamese and Chinese delicacies as pho beef noodle soup and lotus root salad, but city inspectors found something much less appetizing -- roaches and rat droppings.


Mayor Richard M. Daley's Dumpster Task Force, acting on complaints, inspected the restaurant at 1055 W. Argyle on Tuesday and found live roaches in the food prep area, along with rat feces, grease-encrusted equipment and no proof of garbage service. That led to a closure order, according to Department of Streets and Sanitation spokesman Matt Smith.
Inspectors spotted more than 50 live roaches on the walls and under boxes of mangoes and fish sauce, Smith said.

"There were tons of live roaches," Smith said. "They counted more than 50 and usually, if they count that many, they just stop counting."
And when inspectors stopped counting roaches, they also noticed a handful of flying insects and more than 50 rat droppings on the floor, Smith said.
"In the alley, they found a barrel used as a grease container that was splattered with grease, along with the pavement around it," Smith said. "The spillage had attracted rats, because more droppings were found there."

Back inside, Smith said said it was a "customer beware situation," with the dining room appearing clean and pleasant, "but just under the surface was all sorts of filth. Just about every piece of equipment, from utensils to coolers were encrusted in grease."

The restaurant has been featured on the WTTW-11 show "Check Please!", but the show's Web site did not say when.
Hai Yen was closed after being issued citations for inadequate pest control, failing to properly contain used cooking grease and failing to be able to prove they retained garbage service, according to a release from Streets & Sanitation.

"This business deserved to be closed because they put their customers at risk by preparing and serving them food under totally unacceptable circumstances," Deputy Streets & San Commissioner Josie Cruz said in the release. "Now they have to prove that they deserve to be reopened and that will entail a serious and thorough cleanup , a total revamping of housekeeping and pest control practices, and passing a tough reinspection."

New Banner Designs Released

Monday, July 9, 2007 | | 13 comments | Bookmark and Share

Neighborhood Welcome Wagon

Saturday, July 7, 2007 | | 28 comments | Bookmark and Share


Folks moving to our neighborhood are greeted by these fine gents upon leaving U-Haul near Broadway and Irving Park. The men loiter, and litter, directly across the street or even in front of the entrance to U-Haul hoping to "help" someone move. We also noticed an extremely large quantity of U-Haul trucks lining streets in the area. Good luck finding street parking. If you would like to let U-Haul know that these men are not appreciated in your moving process, call 773-871-7155 or the Alderman's office.

No more Spotted Pig?

Thursday, July 5, 2007 | | 4 comments | Bookmark and Share

During a Fourth of July walk, the Cub Reporter noticed that the sign and menu that were in the window of the Spotted Pig have been removed. Did the owners decide not to open? Uptown could use a nice casual restaurant and that location has a great area for outdoor dining. Any insight?

Wilson Yard Progress Update

Tuesday, July 3, 2007 | | 7 comments | Bookmark and Share


Today at Truman College

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Uptown Streetscape

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If At First You Don't Succeed...

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We have to hand it to them. These Uptown entrepreneurs don't give up. They have simply moved about 150 feet to the east of the currency exchange and have set up shop once again. We hope they are claiming this added income on their taxes. The police have been notified and we will keep you updated.

Dueling Shopping Carts

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Promoting Recycling in the 46th Ward

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We've seen these all over the neighborhood and unfortunately most of them are ending up on the sidewalk. So much for recycling.

Dominick's to be Replaced?

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According to Crain's Chicago Business, the dated Dominick's grocery store at the corner of Foster and Sheridan may be replaced with two high-rises with 400 residential units, parking garage and replacement (and updated) Dominick's store.

What To Watch For In Your Neighborhood

Monday, July 2, 2007 | | 6 comments | Bookmark and Share



A must-read for folks in our neighborhood from The 'Broken Heart' of Rogers Park. Bravo Craig!

Inside and Down Below the Uptown Broadway Building

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Walking past the Uptown Broadway Building this evening we noticed that construction has resumed and is focusing now on the section under the sidewalk in front of the building. It appears that the basement of the building extends out until Broadway. Hanging our camera over the fence we were able to snap a few shots down below and a few inside the ground floor of the building. Whoever leases the basement portion will have alot of space to fill.

Uptown-Style Advertising?

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We walk near the intersection of Lawrence and Kenmore often and have made it a habit of removing various cups that are placed on the fence and throwing them away only to find them back up the next day. Could this be a clever game or do these cups on this fence signify more? Thoughts?

New Condo Building at Irving Park and Sheridan

Sunday, July 1, 2007 | | 11 comments | Bookmark and Share


Former gas station to be replaced with 87 condo units and first floor retail, according to the Chicago Tribune.