Friday, February 28, 2014

Community Meeting To Discuss Granting Mariano's A Liquor License


If you live in the area bounded by Berwyn, Kenmore, Marine Dr. and Argyle, please try to attend this meeting regarding Mariano's request to sell liquor at its new Sheridan/Foster location.

As we understand it, Sheridan is a liquor moratorium area for the sale of packaged liquor, i.e., takeout, such as a liquor store.  The former Dominick's at the location had a great selection of wine, beer and spirits, and we are guessing -- although we don't know for sure -- that it was able to sell because it either had an exemption or that the store was grandfathered in.  We would love to see a similar selection featured at Mariano's.

Our biggest question is whether the community can vote to allow only Mariano's to sell liquor, or if the entire area would have the moratorium on selling liquor lifted.  That would make a big difference.

When Aldi at Wilson Yard requested that the existing liquor moratorium in its area be lifted so that it could sell alcohol, it meant that the entire area near it -- including Broadway and Wilson -- would also have the right to sell packaged liquor, and it was denied.  We wonder if it's the same situation for Mariano's and the area around it, and how big that area is.

Should be an interesting meeting.

Yes, There Will Be Elevators!


There's a sign at the auxiliary entrance of the Wilson L Red Line station that shows "Interior view of main entrance, showing accessible fare gates and elevators."  The ADA finally comes to a CTA station between Addison and Granville.  We so can't wait for this remodeling!

Ceres' Table To Reopen in Lakeview

If you loved having a Michelin-rated restaurant close to home, you'll be glad to know that Ceres' Table has a new investor, a new space in Lakeview, and a tentative opening date.

On its Facebook page, Ceres' mentions its team has been joined by Caryn Struif, and it will open its doors sometime around mid-April at 3124 North Broadway (at Briar), next door to Reckless Records.  "Right in time for favas, artichokes, fiddleheads and ramps."

It also mentions that, as of January, its former storefront at 4882 N Clark has a new owner, but is playing coy about who or what will open there.  "I'm sure they'll make themselves known shortly."

Now, if we could only have similar news about the late, great Fontana Grill, whose "move to a new location" we've been anticipating for more than a year now....

Such A Deal! Local Specials, All Month Long

An exciting month of supporting local business is in store for Uptown and Edgewater shoppers, all March long.  The 48th Ward Office and the chambers of commerce for Uptown, Andersonville and Edgewater have teamed up to present "Deals of the Day" from March 1st through 31st.

"Alderman Harry Osterman invites you to join neighbors in supporting locally owned businesses with a new deal every day at a new business throughout March!

Local businesses are an integral part of our community. This winter's weather has hit our businesses hard. Help keep our neighborhoods of Andersonville, Edgewater and Uptown unique and vibrant by spending locally and supporting our local businesses.

Visit 48thward.org/local to see the full Deal of the Day schedule or click here to download the schedule!

If you visit 5 or more businesses on their "deal day," you can be entered into a drawing to win lunch with Alderman Osterman at your favorite 48th ward local restaurant for you & a guest. See details below.

Thank you to the Edgewater, Andersonville and Uptown chambers of commerce for partnering on this campaign and to all the participating businesses:

Radiant Smiles For You * Edgewater Athletic Club * Cookies and Carnitas * Ethiopian Diamond * A World Class Concierge Service, Inc. * Ethiopian Diamond * Bryn Mawr Jewelry * Spoil Me Hair Salon and Spa * The UPS Store * Sentieri * Swedish American Museum * Castle Food & Liquor * Blue Buddha Boutique * Military Arts Institute * Broken Buckle Antiques at The Landmark * Cheetah Gym * Crew Bar + Grill * Mas alla del Sol * Turley Road * Lovely, too: a bake shop * Sophie’s Closet * Indie CafĂ© * Lickity Split * Metropolis Coffee Company * Sparkles Fine Jewelry * Trillium at the Landmark * Broadway Cellars * Andies Restaurant * Antica Pizzeria * Pizzeria Aroma * Uncommon Ground * Independent Spirits * La Fonda Latino Grill * KOVAL Distillery * Raven Theatre * Andersonville Galleria * Shake Rattle & Read * The T-Shirt Deli, Co. * Antwitech * Living Fit Chicago * City Olive * Foursided * Demera Ethiopian Restaurant * Sifu Design Studio * Li'l Buds Theatre Company * Fat Cat * Ellipsis Coffeehouse * Notice * Chicago Gold Gallery * Green Genes * Third Coast Comics * Joel Hall Dancers & Center * Early to bed * m. henrietta

Drawing details: If you visit 5 or more businesses on their "deal day" and send us proof, you will be entered in a drawing to win lunch with Alderman Osterman at your favorite 48th Ward local restaurant for you & a guest. Show us proof by emailing 1) a photo, 2) copy of a receipt or 3) a proof of a "check-in" or #48wardLoveLocal on social media to Sara@48thward.org by April 3, 2014.

If you have any questions, please contact the 48th Ward office at 773-784-5277 or Sara@48thward.org."

Thursday, February 27, 2014

More Filming In Uptown, This Time "Crisis"

For more info on "Crisis" check out the page on NBC.

First Look: Safeguard Self-Storage At 5026 Sheridan


Rendering of the proposed self-storage at 5026 N. Sheridan
From an email to residents of Argyle-Winmore Block Club:

"Apparently, the driveway is behind the glass garage door towards the right and cars will enter with the door closing behind them. Also, there are '3 feet of planters,' though I'm not sure what that means precisely. I'm trying to see if we can get the developer to meet with our block club to go over the details at a more commuter-friendly time (i.e., after 6:30pm).

In the meantime, Dan confirmed that the Alderman's office (Osterman) had previously requested a downzone of the property, but the storage company had already requested permits. It appears that the downzone request is likely to be denied, but the Alderman's office might have some influence over the aesthetics details of the project."

Chicago Tribune: Abuse Allegations Aimed At Jesus People Commune

Filmmaker Jaime Prater
photo by Nancy Stone, Chicago Tribune
By Manya Brachear Pashman
Tribune Reporter

A recent lawsuit and a new video documentary raise allegations of sexual abuse in decades past in a cloistered, evangelical commune in Chicago’s Uptown neighborhood.

Heather Kool, 38, who now lives in Georgia, alleges in the lawsuit that she was abused in the 1980s by members of Jesus People USA, one of the last vestiges of a religious movement that emerged in the renowned “Summer of Love” of 1967.

The lawsuit names the commune and the Evangelical Covenant Church, a Chicago-based denomination that has considered the Jesus People one of its congregations since 1989. Kool’s lawsuit does not identify anyone who allegedly abused her.

The legal action sets the stage for a new documentary available Friday in which Kool and a half-dozen others share their accounts of alleged abuse at the religious commune.

“I loved being part of a family,” Kool said in the film, describing her growing up in the commune. Continue Reading

Help Plan Broadway's Future

From Ald. Cappleman's latest newsletter:

The City's Dept. of Planning and Development is sponsoring a public meeting to discuss the North Broadway Plan, which will look at improving transportation and economic development along the Broadway corridor from Devon Avenue to Montrose. The goal is to create a plan that will encourage sustainable development and improve transportation mobility for drivers, bicyclists, transit users, and pedestrians. For more information, click here.

We're seeing a wonderful surge of strong economic development in our Ward, so your input is needed to make sure we move forward in a way that benefits the entire community. Hope to see you there!

When: Thursday, March 6 from 6:30pm - 8pm
Where: Edgewater Library, 6000 N. Broadway

Karaoke for A Cause: Sing To Support Tree House

Warm up your windpipes for Karaoke for a Cause on Thursday, February 27th from 6:30-9:30pm at Chicago Party Animals, 1133 W. Fulton Market, Chicago. Admission is free and well-behaved, vaccinated, leashed dogs are welcome.

The party will celebrate Mardi Gras with beads, a donation bar, hearty appetizers, “spokescats” for adoption, a fabulous raffle, professional party photos, and a shopping bazaar featuring pet themed gifts for you and your pets.

All proceeds will help Tree House Humane Society continue to rescue thousands of the neediest cats each year, as well as provide low-cost spay/neuter for cats and dogs, and will help Pets are Like Family (PALF) continue their programs to help pets stay with their families and out of the shelters, while honoring the bond that people share with their beloved companion animals.

DUI Strike Patrol Out This Weekend

Just in case you needed another reason not to drive under the influence:
"The Chicago Police Department will conduct a DUI Strike Force Patrol along Lake Shore Drive this upcoming weekend. The DUI Strike Force Patrol will commence at 8:00 p.m. on Saturday, March 1, 2014 and end at 4:00 a.m. on Sunday, March 2, 2014.

The purpose of this program is to saturate a pre-designated area with roving police officers that continually monitor vehicular traffic for signs of impaired driving. Patrols also place emphasis on speed, alcohol-related and safety belt violations. Police vehicles equipped for speed detection are deployed to apprehend speeding violators.

In addition, the Breath Alcohol Testing (BAT) Mobile Unit may also be deployed to allow officers to expedite the process of charging a person with Driving under the Influence (DUI) prior to transporting an alleged into the nearest lockup for bonding. The mobile unit also allows for Individual Recognizance Bonds (I-Bonds) to be issued at the site of the DUI Strike Force Patrol."

When one of these things happens, they find all sorts of violations:  unsafe cars, weapons in vehicles, lack of insurance, open containers, expired licenses and license plates.  Don't give them a reason to pull you over and you won't have to deal with the unpleasantness.

Oscar Party At Crew On Sunday

Catalytic Converter Thieves Back In Business

courtesy of How Stuff Works
A thievery trend that has hit all over the country is surfacing in Uptown (again).  A reader says:
"I learned about catalytic converter theft as a regular reader of Uptown Update, and I'm sad to say that my car was chosen for this crime sometime over the past few days. It was parked on Carmen Ave, between Broadway and Glenwood, where I've lived for nearly four years with absolutely no issues. I filed a police report (I want to note that it was a very easy process, and the officer (on 311) was extremely friendly), had the car towed, and am waiting to see what will happen with repairs and insurance.

Thanks to what I learned about this theft previously on Uptown Update, I was able to pretty quickly determine that's what was wrong with my car, and I knew how important it was to file a police report. In the scheme of things, this isn't that big of a deal (no one was hurt, I had the time to deal with it, and the ability to cover the cost to fix it), but it is an expensive and time-consuming pain. I wanted to share that it happened in case you think others should be made aware."

There are deterrents -- engraving your license plate number on your catalytic converter, having it welded to the car frame, or asking a muffler shop attach some extra metal to make it harder to remove.  The best deterrent is to look out for your neighbors and call 911 if you see anyone inspecting their cars or lying or crouching near it.  A reminder to call 911 if you see any suspicious behavior.

Wednesday, February 26, 2014

Go For The Gold At Razon

And, the OSCAR goes to ...

Join RazĂłn THIS Sunday 6pm-10PM
for an Oscar Viewing Party
Complimentary Small Bites and Popcorn
Dress to Impress for a Chance to Win a Dinner For Two

Call 773.880.9115 for Reservations

RazĂłn • 4250 N Marine Dr, Chicago, IL
773.880.9115 • Facebook.com/ChicagoRazon
Instagram: #RazonUptown

Attention, Urban Farmers (And Those Interested In Growing Food In The Middle Of The City)

ICA Greenrise (4750 N. Sheridan Rd.) is partnering with Green Community Connections and the third annual One Earth Film Festival. We will be showing the documentary Growing Cities on Saturday, March 8th from 2-4 pm in the 6th floor conference room.

Growing Cities - A Film About Urban Farming in America. "In their search for answers, the filmmakers take a road trip and meet the men and women who are challenging the way this country grows and distributes its food. They discover that good food isn't the only crop these urban visionaries are harvesting. They're producing stronger and more vibrant communities, too."

 Join us on Saturday, March 8th at 2 pm here at ICA GreenRise 4750 N. Sheridan to see what these filmmakers discovered is already being done (some of the "urban visionaries" featured in the film are right here in Chicago) and to see what else we might be inspired to do.

Sunday, February 23, 2014

Thar She Flows! Running Water Makes Its Return To Malden

Some really good news at 8:03pm from the folks who haven't had running water in ten days:

"We just got water back on. Thanks again for your help and support."

We noticed some City trucks blocking the street at Lawrence and Malden earlier this evening.  Apparently they were out there most of the day.  Thanks to the city workers who endured hours outside in this weather to get it done.

We wish all residents extravagantly long hot showers, squeaky clean dishes, freshly washed clothes, and all the tooth-brushing they want. Happy news indeed.

Ameya Pawar Announces He'll Run For A Second Term

Yesterday, Ald. Pawar made it official:
"Three years ago today the 47th ward elected me to office. It's been an incredible honor to serve our community and City. I look forward to serving you this year and if you'll have me back, for another term."
The municipal election is a year and a day away: February 24, 2015.

Saturday, February 22, 2014

How Dry I Am -- No Water Since Valentine's Day

We've heard from several readers on the 4700 block of Malden who have been without water in their building for over a week.  Valentine's Day, to be exact.  And there's no guarantee of when they will get it back.

It's not frozen pipes or a building issue or a payment issue.  It's a city issue caused by underground pipes that ruptured during the last cold spell.  Ald. Cappleman is aware of it, and has a staff member dedicated to the problem, who is in contact with the Department of Water Management on a daily basis.

But they're still without water, including an 80-year-old woman.  Imagine having to melt snow in your bathtub to have water to flush your toilet.  That's been going on for eight days now.  And, again, there's no guarantee when the water service will be restored.

The first calls were made Friday, February 14th.  The City came out to investigate on Monday, February 17th, and said the problem would be fixed by that evening.  But now, the Department of Water Management says that the first time they were contacted was Tuesday, February 18th, and these tenants will have to wait their turn.

We believe the folks at the DWM when they say they've been working around the clock to get services restored throughout the city, but that's not very much comfort if you've just hauled up a few buckets of snow to be able to flush your toilet.  Or if you're 80 years old and can't haul water upstairs.

Until you don't have water, you don't know how much you depend on it: bathing, brushing your teeth, providing water for your pets, flushing the toilets, doing laundry, washing dishes.  Now imagine not being able to do those things for more than a week.  Most people have friends who can help out, or can haul water from the store.  But not everyone is mobile or able to go out, especially when there are subzero temperatures or slippery streets.

If you do not have water, we assume you've called 3-1-1.  Now, call your alderman's office and make sure they know your situation so when they make their calls to DWM, you are included.  And, yes, subzero temperatures are on the way again.

It's been a very long time since Chicago was known as "The City That Works." Situations like this remind us just why that's the case.

It's National Margarita Day

We didn't know that there was such a thing, but there needs to be.  In honor of National Margarita Day, Razon says: 

"Join us for $3 Margaritas ALL DAY!!
RazĂłn • 4250 N Marine Dr, Chicago, IL
773.880.9115 • Facebook.com/ChicagoRazon
Instagram: #RazonUptown"

More Details On Sheridan/Dakin Proposed Project

Loukas Development's proposed project at 3936 N Sheridan
Curbed Chicago spoke to Loukas Development and got more information about the proposed new building at 3936 N Sheridan that UU featured a couple days ago.  Read the entire article here. One thing that stood out, which may go towards answering the questions many readers expressed wondering why this particular location:
"Planning the building next to an L station is no coincidence either, as this project joins a litany of other proposed north-side-neighborhood apartment projects that want to focus on transportation oriented development. In addition to quick and easy L access, the developer wants to emphasize bicycle parking, which will be a featured amenity for the project."
Another thing we noticed was the design of the building just across the street, on the southwest corner of Dakin and Sheridan. Built by Loukas in 2006, its design and the proposed design of the new building, while not identical, do complement each other.

Loukas Development's completed project at 3920 N Sheridan (Google Maps)
We couldn't find any documentation telling the age of the current building at 3938, but it did show up in photos taken in 1937.  You can see them on the Chicago Uptown History blog, here.

Friday, February 21, 2014

No Lyin' -- It's Cold Again

The three-day warm-up and resulting reduction of the snow cover were oh-so-welcome, but take a tip from Lionel at Montrose and Dayton.

Cold weather is coming back, with snow flurries expected today and negative thermometer readings by mid-week.

So put on your best pink snow-veralls, enjoy the somewhat clearer sidewalks and extra hour of daylight, and get back into winter mode.  It's gotta end sometime.

Immigration Assistance Available On Saturday

Thursday, February 20, 2014

Loukas Development Plans 8 Story Building At Sheridan & Dakin

3936 N. Sheridan as seen today
Although just out of Uptown's official borders, this will certainly be of interest to anyone who uses the Sheridan red line station or lives nearby. Loukas Development is planning an 8 story development at 3936 N. Sheridan, right on the NW corner. Currently, the property is home to a vintage 3 story apartment building that has called that corner home for many, many years. Loukas was also the developer for the project on the SW corner of Sheridan and Dakin. The project will be presented to the 46th Ward Zoning and Development Committee at the next meeting on Monday, February 24, at 7pm in the Weiss Hospital Auditorium.
Loukas Development's plans for the property

Wednesday, February 19, 2014

Winter Morning at Montrose Harbor




Gene Tenner took some gorgeous photos of the lakefront earlier this week on an early-morning bike ride and shared them with UU's readers.  Click to enlarge them for the full effect.

Public Meeting On Proposed Sheridan Self-Storage Building


As many readers might remember, there's been a lot of action lately at the long-abandoned property at 5026 N Sheridan, one building north of Tweet/Big Chicks.  Ald. Osterman requested a downzone in December, the former laundromat there was razed in January, and later that month, Safeguard Self-Storage announced it would be building there.

As for us, we're happy something will be there, but had hoped for something more in keeping with the retail/pedestrian vibe that Argyle, Big Chicks, and the new residences at 5050 North Sheridan and Somerset Place will provide.  As Ald. Osterman said, "I am hoping it will be redeveloped in a positive way to complement the success of its neighbor, Tweet and Big Chicks, and to match the momentum of Argyle Street, the Somerset, newly announced Mariano's and other great things happening in Uptown."

If you have strong feelings about a self-storage building going in -- pro or con -- please make your feelings known at this community meeting.

Here's a view of one of the new self-storage buildings that Safeguard is planning for Chicago.  It's not known whether it's the one planned for Sheridan.


"The Sound Of Art" At Decibel On Saturday

People's Music School Turns 38, And You're Invited


The People's Music School is located at 931 West Eastwood.

Tuesday, February 18, 2014

Did Someone Say Something About A New Wilson Station?

Because here's a news flash:

We need a new one.  Really bad.

This lovely bog is what commuters got to wade through this evening.

Did anyone go to the CTA's feedback meeting at Uplift?

Your impressions?

BTW, the CTA featured the Wilson renovation on its main page today, with an excellent FAQ and some nice big drawings.

Update:  DNAinfo reported on the meeting last night.

Sunday, February 16, 2014

Razon Announces Sunday Brunch

RISE AND SHINE!

Starting February 8th, 2014, RazĂłn is proud to present
SUNDAY BRUNCH

Eggs Benedict • Omelettes
French Toast • Savory Salads
Fresh Fruit Crepes & much more!

RazĂłn • 4250 N Marine Dr, Chicago, IL
773.880.9115 • Facebook.com/ChicagoRazon
Instagram: #RazonUptown

Saturday, February 15, 2014

22-Year-Old Man Apprehended For Thursday's Shots Fired

Oh, for crying out loud.  We studied about Marquette and Joliet, but now Marcus from Joliet is making headlines.

The guy arrested on suspicion of being the shooter the other night?  From Joliet. His getaway vehicle? The #36 bus.  Which he was riding with a loaded gun under his seat.

Somewhere legions of Uptown gangsters are rolling their eyes.

According to the Tribune:  "A Joliet man is accused of firing a handgun outside an Uptown ‘L’ station on Thursday evening before getting on a CTA bus and stowing the weapon under his seat. Prosecutors said Marcus M. Dixon, 22, was standing at the vestibule entrance to the Wilson Red Line station, 1107 W. Wilson Ave., when he fired the gun three times. A witness told officers he heard one shot and then saw Dixon fire twice more in a downward direction.

The witness called police, described Dixon’s clothing and said he saw the shooter board a southbound Broadway bus. Officers pulled the bus over at Broadway and Sheridan in the Lakeview neighborhood just before 6:45 p.m. They found Dixon in the rear of the bus with a semi-automatic pistol beneath his seat. The gun, which police said had a defaced serial number, was loaded with 11 live rounds."

Marcus Dixon, not to be confused with the football player or the character on Alias of the same name, is being held in Cook County Jail on $400,000 bond and will have a date with a judge on Thursday. He has a criminal record, not much of a shock for someone with his level of street smarts.

Interestingly, he committed his previous crimes in Cook County as well, which either means he's fibbing about the address where he actually sleeps at night, or he likes coming into the city to get his thrills.

Update:  Similar story in the Sun-Times.

Friday, February 14, 2014

Sheridan/Foster Mariano's: Opening In April, Job Fair In March

click for larger version

Ready, Set, Thaw



Temperatures are predicted to be in the 30s and the giddy high 40s next week.  If your car has become one with the elements, as those pictured above have, or if people are still playing slip-n-slide on your sidewalk or crosswalks, you may want to take some good advice from Ald. Tunney:

"This is a good opportunity to shovel the remainder of snow off the sidewalks and dig out your car. Please don't throw the snow back into the street, as temperatures drop overnight, icy conditions may occur. If you live in front of or near a sewer drain, please clear off the snow to allow passage of water to the drain.  Thank you, and enjoy this brief break from subzero temperatures!"

Thursday, February 13, 2014

Update: Shots Fired On Wilson; Man In Custody

Apparently Uptown's gangbangers are coming out of hibernation and they didn't get any smarter about their life choices during the big chill.  Four shots were fired on Wilson west of Broadway around 6:30pm.  One man was hit and received medical attention at the fire station.  Two men, one of whom is believed to be the shooter, ran north on Racine. No word yet on whether they were apprehended.  Heavy police presence at Wilson and Broadway.

Can we get another polar vortex, please?

Update:  Two pieces of good news last night:
  1. According to the Commander and alderman, no one was hit by the shots fired.
  2. A man is in custody.

Some Valentine's Day Doings In Uptown

Forget that someone special?  Don't buy Russell Stover at Walgreen's!  Uptown has its very own florist now, FORGET ME KNODT, at 1313 West Wilson.  If you need flowers delivered Friday, call by 3pm today! 773-944-1041



The Neo-Futurists present a special Valentine's edition of Too Much Light Makes The Baby Go Blind. The Neo-Futurists push Cupid aside and take aim with their own quiver of arrows to present a special Valentine’s Day performance of their signature show! Too Much Love Makes The Baby Go Blind features 30 plays about love, sex, romance, hate, loneliness, awkwardness, and every other joy and despair that come with human relationships. A perfect date night for spouses, partners, significant others, friends with benefits, and all of your It’s-Complicateds.  Doors open at 7:30pm – Show starts at 8:00pm.  More info here.


Have a romantic mani/pedi with the one you love at Spoil Me Salon.  Rose Petals in the water, champagne and chocolates.  More details here.








Celebrate with your love on Saturday evening with a romantic dinner sponsored by Buena Park Neighbors.  Details here.





For more information, visit www.pivotarts.org or "like" https://www.facebook.com/PivotArts


Fat Cat, at 4840 N Broadway, is holding an Anti-Valentine's Day event on Friday.  "Slasher movies & sweat pants encouraged and rewarded!  Decorate your own pint of ice cream sundae, Garlic infused food items including ... Roasted garlic, scallion and pesto mac & cheese, Garlic risotto balls stuffed with brie cheese and chipotle raspberry sauce.

It's not because you've given up, it's because it's a stupid holiday, that doesn't really matter anymore. Make your reservations now ...or not, no tables for 2, come as you are."  More information here.

Mid-Winter 46th Ward School Supply Drive

There was a school supply drive for 46th Ward students last summer, but five months into the school year, supplies are dwindling and it's time for some mid-winter restocking.  Please help take a burden off the teachers (who always end up buying supplies out of their personal funds) if you're able to contribute supplies or a gift card or a cash donation.

From Ald. Cappleman's Wednesday newsletter:

"Friends of the 46th Ward Schools was founded from the planning and research process of the 46th Ward Master Plan right after I was elected in 2011. A group of residents working on the educational section of the plan continued to meet to help boost the resources available to the schools. They soon formed a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization and have spearheaded supply drives for schools located in the 46th Ward. 

This group has been a huge asset to the community with their supply drives and volunteer services that help strengthen the schools. Their recent clothing drive for students at Courtenay School was a great success, especially given the cold winter we've had this year.


How You Can Help.  This organization is now sponsoring a mid-year school supply drive for Brennemann, Courtenay, Disney, Greeley, McCutcheon, and Uplift. You can shop for school supplies and drop them by the 46th Ward Office. Friends of the 46th Ward Schools will then divide them up and distribute them to the neighborhood schools.  The type of supplies needed are: copy paper, Kleenex, paper towels, glue sticks, loose leaf paper, dry erase markers, spiral notebooks, hand sanitizer, and Clorox wipes. For more information about what types of supplies are needed, click here.


I'd like to thank all the many volunteers from Friends of the 46th Ward Schools for their commitment to the children and parents of this community. If you would like to be involved with this wonderful organization, please click here."

Wednesday, February 12, 2014

48 Years For Shake Rattle & Read, And We All Win


It's been 48 years in business for Uptown's legendary book and record shop, Shake Rattle & Read, located at 4812 North Broadway, and Ric Addy is having a sale to celebrate!  Up to 48% off the stock in hand, beginning Friday, and running through Monday.

SRR has been creating memories for Uptowners and others for nearly half a century.  If you happen to run into Ric while you're there, ask him about some of the famous folks who have shopped there, usually stopping by before a show at the Riv or Aragon.  We are proud to have part of rock history right here in our community.

Shameless Films In Uptown Wednesday & Friday

A reader at 4750 N Racine photographed a notice on the front gate

From Ald. Cappleman's latest newsletter:

"No Parking Due to Filming
  • Today, Wed. (Feb 12) from 11:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m. at Racine from Leland to N. Broadway and west side of Broadway from Racine, south to Leland; Fri., 
  • (Feb 14) all day at south side of Lawrence Ave. from Sheridan Rd. to Marine Dr."

Tuesday, February 11, 2014

TCF/Jewel Bank Robber Hits Uptown


She's previously hit the TCF branches inside Jewel stores at Broadway & Addison in Lakeview, and Broadway & Berwyn in Edgewater.  Today a female bank robber who apparently likes her thefts to be next to the produce section robbed the TCF in the Jewel at Montrose and Broadway, around 2:40pm.

She is described as 5'7", and around age 35.  If you have any information that can help the FBI find her, call 312-421-6700.