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Archives for April 2020

The following is a list of resources that may be useful during the coronavirus (COVID-19) crisis

By William S. Bike

Coronavirus (COVID-19) information

The federal Centers for Disease Control and Prevention is www.cdc.gov/coronavirus.

The Chicago Public Schools’coronavirus (COVID-19) website is cps.edu/coronavirus.

The City of Chicago’s coronavirus (COVID-19) website is www.chicago.gov/coronavirus; email coronavirus@chicago.gov or call (312) 746-4835.

Cook County’s coronavirus (COVID-19) website is https://cookcountyhealth.org/patients-visitors/coronavirus-information/.

The State of Illinois coronavirus (COVID-19) website is www2.illinois.gov/sites/coronavirus. For questions about coronavirus, call the Illinois Department of Public Health at (800) 889-3931 or email dph.sick.@illinois.gov. 

Rush University Medical Center’s coronavirus (COVID-19) website is www.rushu.rush.edu/about/novel-coronavirus-covid-19-information. Rush also is offering on-demand video visits for people concerned they might be infected. Call (312) 942-7100.

The University of Illinois at Chicago’s coronavirus (COVID-19) website is today.uic.edu/frequently-asked-questions. UI Health’s coronavirus (COVID-19) website is https://hospital.uillinois.edu/news/covid-19.

Debt

Mayor Lori Lightfoot announced that all City of Chicago debt collections will be suspended until Wednesday, April 15.

Donate blood

The Illinois Coalition of Community Blood Centers is launching the #GiveBloodChallenge to encourage people to make a short trip to donate blood and then post a photo on social media (or at least post your appointment time) and tag ten friends to do the same during the coronavirus (COVID-19) crisis, which has resulted in blood shortages. Contact Vitalant at www.vitalant.org or (877) 258-4835 to schedule a donation time (can be done online) and post a photo on social media with the hashtag #Give Blood Challenge. For more information, log on to www.illlinoisbloodcenters.com.

Electricity

ComEd has suspended electricity disconnections for customers unable to pay their bills and is waiving late payment charges through Friday, May 1. See www.comed.com.

Evictions

Cook County and Sheriff Tom Dart’s office are suspending court-ordered evictions until further notice. Allen Hailey of the Lawyers Committee for Better Housing recommends that “renters still be responsive” to eviction notices so when “court proceedings resume they are not at risk of losing their housing.” The LCBH is located at 33 N. LaSalle St. Call (312) 347-7600 or log on to www.lcbh.org.

Funding

The Chicago Community Trust and United Way of Metro Chicago set up a fund to help victims of the coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak: the Chicago Community COVID-19 Response Fund. Log on to www.cct.org/chicago-community-covid-19-response-fund/ or call (312) 616-8000.

The Illinois Department of Human Services provides a program called Temporary Assistance for Needy Families; adults with children younger than 19 may qualify. See www.dhs.state.il.us/page.aspx?item=49833.

Immigrant justice

The National Immigrant Justice Center, 224 S. Michigan Ave., which provides comprehensive legal services to low-income immigrants, refugees, and asylum seekers, continues to do intakes over the phone, according to communications coordinator Alejandra Oliva. The NIJC also has called for a moratorium on detentions by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement because “COVID is particularly dangerous in detention conditions,” Oliva added. Call (312) 660-1370 or log on to www.immigrantjustice.com.

Meals

The Chicago Public Schools is giving out free meals for any child in need, regardless of whether the child is a CPS student. Meals are available 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Monday through Friday outside CPS schools. Call (773) 553-5437 or emailfamilyservices@cps.edu.

The Greater Chicago Food Depository can connect people to food pantries. Call (773) 247-3663.

Marillac St. Vincent has a homebound elderly program that delivers groceries to seniors at home. It also has a food pantry at 2859 W. Jackson Blvd. Call (773) 584-3265.

Mental health

The National Center on Domestic Violence, Trauma, and Mental Health lists Chicago and Illinois mental health agencies and organizations on its website at http://www.nationalcenterdvtraumamh.org/resources/chicago-and-illinois-mental-health-agencies-and-organizations/. Log on to the website to find an agency or organization if fear of coronavirus (COVID-19) is affecting your mental health.

Are media reports, closures, and social distancing causing you to be anxious, stressed, and lonely? Bright Start Community Outreach’s trauma helpline is available Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Call (833) TURN-123 or log on to BrightStarCommunityOutreach.com.

Parking tickets, auto impound

Mayor Lori Lightfoot announced that the City of Chicago will cease all debt collection and stop issuing parking tickets and impounding autos through Thursday, April 30. The City will issue tickets only if the vehicle presents a safety hazard and will tow cars left in the middle of the street.

Play@Home

Chicago Children’s Theatre launched its Play@Home Contest that encourages kids to tell stories using their imaginations and family members (pets included). Youngsters can write their own script, find props and costumes from around the house, and perform their original work on video. Deadline is Monday, April 20. For more information or on how to send the video, email dexter@chicagochildrenstheatre.org.

Religion

While Masses are suspended due to coronavirus (COVID-19), Holy Family/Notre Dame Parish will offer Sunday Masses on the parish Facebook page at 10 a.m. The house chapel at the parish office, 1335 W. Harrison St., will be open Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. for personal prayer. Email hfndparishcommunity@hf-nd.org for more information.

The Shrine of Our Lady of Pompeii offers virtual meditations and will hold virtual novena prayers Wednesday through Thursday, April 1 through 9. Log on to www.ourladyofpompeii.org/news/virtual-meditation/.

Rental assistance

The City of Chicago has an emergency rental assistance program. Apply at the Garfield Center, 10 S. Kedzie Ave., (312) 746-5400, or King Center, 4314 S. Cottage Grove Ave., (312) 747-2300, or call 311.

Student housing

Campuses across the country and in Chicagoland have closed and asked their students to leave dorms. Many of these students rely on student housing and have nowhere else to go. If you want to host a college student in your home, contact Care For Friends at (773) 932-1010 or www.careforfriends.org.

Symptoms

According to the City of Chicago, if you develop emergency warning signs for coronavirus (COVID-19) or if you are high risk, get medical attention immediately. In adults, emergency warning signs include difficulty breathing or shortness of breath; persistent pain or pressure in the chest; confusion and/or difficulty awakening; and/or bluish lips or face. If you do not have those warning signs but have a high-risk condition such as being pregnant, 60 or older, or existing medical or respiratory conditions, call your doctor to see if you need a test if you develop cold or flu symptoms. Others should merely self-isolate and monitor the situation, as symptoms may indicate only a typical cold or flu.

Unemployment benefits

The Illinois Department of Employment Security is working on unemployment benefits to those temporarily laid off because their employers have been affected by the coronavirus (COVID-19), such as restaurants and bars; those without paid sick leave; and those in general unable to work because their jobs have been affected. See www2.illinois.gov/ides or call (800) 244-5631.

Newman upsets Lipinski for Congress; voters pick other Dem, Rep nominees

By William S. Bike

Democratic voters in the 3rd Congressional District rejected Dan Lipinski, congressman for the last 15 years, in favor of Marie Newman in the biggest upset of the election on March 17. Gazette Chicago had endorsed Newman.

Candidates winning their primaries will go on to the general election on Nov. 3.

“I am bursting with pride and gratitude for the amazing coalition that helped bring about much needed change in our district,” Newman said. “We are going to work together to lower healthcare costs, to fight climate change, and to build an economy that works for everyone.”

Joe Biden.

“This is a critical victory for the progressive movement in showing that voters are ready for a new generation of progressive leadership in the Democratic Party,’ said Alexandra Rojas, executive director of Justice Democrats, one of the many progressive groups that backed Newman.

“This isn’t just a loss for one incumbent,” Rojas added. “It’s a defeat for machine politics and big corporate donors who want to stop our movement for Medicare for All, a Green New Deal, and reproductive rights.”

Newman scored 49,062 votes for 47.3%; Lipinski was second with 46,273 for 44.6%; Rush Darwish was third with 6,066 for 5.8%; and Charles Hughes last with 2,376 for 2.3%.

Mark Curran.

In the Democratic presidential primary state-wide, Joe Biden won with 919,172 for 59.1%, with Bernie Sanders second with 561,561 for 36.1%. Other candidates, most of whom had dropped out of the race, split the other 4.8% of the vote. Gazette Chicago had endorsed Sanders.

On the Republican side, Donald Trump won the presidential primary with 96% of the vote, to 4% for car salesman Rocky De La Fuente. Gazette Chicago made no endorsement.

The Republican candidate for U.S. Senate will be former Lake County Sheriff Mark Curran,who tallied 200,891 votes for 41.5% against four opponents including Casey Chlebek, whom Gazette Chicago endorsed.

P. Scott Neville Jr.

In a seven-candidate race for the Democratic nomination for Illinois Supreme Court, incumbent P. Scott Neville Jr. won with 185,785 votes for 25.4%. Gazette Chicago endorsed Jesse Reyes, who has strong local ties; Reyes came in second with 152,486 for 20.8%.

The 1st Congressional District saw Democratic incumbent Bobby Rush win with 85,215 votes for 71.5%. Gazette Chicago endorsed Rush. Falling short were Sarah Gad, 12,674 for 10.5%; Robert Emmons, 12,093 for 10.0%; and Ameena Matthews, 9,600 for 8.0%.

In the Republican race to face Newman in the 3rd District, Mike Fricilone,endorsed by Gazette Chicago,tallied 9,347 votes for 57.5%. Catherine O’Shea was second with 5,265 for 32.4%, and Arthur Jones third with 1,635 for 10.0%.

Theresa Mah.

The 7th Congressional District Democratic primary saw Gazette Chicago-endorsed incumbent Danny Davis win with 71,000 for 61.5%. Kina Collins was second with 15,915 for 13.8%; Anthony Clark third with 14,656 for 12.7%; and Christine Schanbacher fourth with 13,962 for 12.1%.

In the Democratic race for Illinois State Senate, 1st District, incumbent Tony Munoz,endorsed by Gazette Chicago,won with 13,927 votes for 62.4% over Froy Jimenez, 8,377 for 37.6%.

The 3rd District saw incumbent Democratic State Senator Robert Peters,endorsed by Gazette Chicago,win a tight race over Ken Thomas. Peters tallied 17,975 for 51.8%; Thomas scored 16,697 for 48.2%.

Lakesia Collins.

For the Illinois State House, in the 2nd District Democratic race, incumbent Theresa Mah,endorsed by Gazette Chicago,received 9,254 votes for 66.7%. Shebeat Bobby Olson, 3,991 votes for 28.8%, and Kenneth Kozlar, 625 votes for 4.5%.

There will be a new 9th District State Rep after the November election. The Democratic nominee will be Lakesia Collins,a leader in the nursing home reform movement, who tallied 6,986 votes for 46.0%. The seat has been held by members of the Turner family for decades, but Aaron Turner finished second with 2,405 votes for 15.9%. Trina Mangrum, endorsed by Gazette Chicago,finished third with 1,654 for 10.9%. Also in the race were Nikki Harvey, 1,364 for 9.0%; Ty Cratic, 1,138 for 7.5%; Sandra Scheneller, 965 for 6.4%; and Maurice Edwards, 659 for 4.6%.

Kim Foxx.

Gazette Chicago-endorsed incumbent Democrat Omar Williams won in the 10th District with 7,170 votes for 45.6%. Gerard Moorer was second with 4,902 for 31.2%; Gina Zuccaro was third with 3,662 for 23.3%.

Marc Loveless was running against 26th District Democratic incumbent Kambium Buckner,but Mr. Loveless passed away of natural causes at age 59 on March 8. Buckner won with 14,542 votes. To donate to Mr. Loveless’s burial fund, type GoFundMe+Marc Loveless into a search engine and go to the GoFundMe site.

Iris Martinez.

In the Democratic race for Cook County State’s Attorney, incumbent Kim Foxx held on with 402,829 votes for 50.3% over Bill Conway, who had 249,967 for 31.2%; Donna More, 107,453 for 13.4%, and former local Alderman Bob Fioretti, 39,944 for 5.0%. Gazette Chicago had endorsed Conway.

Foxx will face Republican Pat O’Brien,who received 47,824 votes for 73.0% over Christopher Pfannkuche, 17,681 for 27.0%. Gazette Chicago endorsed O’Brien.

Cameron Davis.

The Democratic Cook County Clerk of the Circuit Court race saw State Senator Iris Martinez win with 244,159 votes for 34.0%. Gazette Chicago-endorsed candidate Michael Cabonargi was second with 193,408 for 27.0%, followed by Richard Boykin with 181,811 for 25.3% and Jacob Meister with 98,245 for 13.7%.

In the Democratic Metropolitan Water Reclamation District race for nominations for three seats, the winners were Kimberly Neely DuBuclet with 301,875 votes for 17.6%; Cameron Davis with 250,086 for 14.6%; and Eira L. Corral Sepulveda with 209,167 for 12.2%. Gazette Chicago endorsed DuBuclet and incumbent Frank Avila, who came in sixth, and Mike Cashman, who came in eighth, in a ten-person race for three spots.

11th Ward meeting addresses new businesses, construction, school and park improvements

By Rodrigo Hernandez

Alderman Patrick D. Thompson on March 4 hosted a quarterly town hall meeting at Tilden Career Academy High School at 4747 S. Union Ave., addressing a wide variety of issues in the 11th Ward, which includes, all or in part, Armour Square, Bridgeport, Back of the Yards, Canaryville, Chinatown, Pilsen, the University of Illinois at Chicago, and University Village.  

The Chicago Park District offered two options for McInerney Park’s playground.

New businesses, construction

Thompson mentioned new businesses and construction coming to the area, including CPMH Construction, Shinya Ramen House, a new office building, and a new Greyhound bus station on an 8.2 acre parcel at 3940 S. Normal Ave. Lakeside Bank, to be located at the northeast corner of 39th and Halsted Streets, is awaiting further approval for construction this month. The building will provide a full service bank with an ATM and drive-through.

The alderman also mentioned a warehouse shipping facility destined for 35th Street and Ashland Avenue. Starbucks and AT&T will come to the corner of 31st and Halsted Streets, and the Starbucks will have a drive-through.

Concerning the Ramova Theatre development, Thompson called the project “a popular topic” in the community and displayed satisfaction in revealing the project will move forward. “The Ramova has had a lot of publicity, and I’m excited that this will be a catalyst for Halsted Street” development, said Thompson. “I know that many of our neighbors are excited” because, at a community meeting, attendees “unanimously supported the project.” 

The Ramova location will include a live entertainment space, brewery, restaurant space, and a parking lot across the street that Thompson recommended the developer include. The City Council Committee on Zoning must approve the plans. 

Thompson noted school improvement investments in the ward, including renovating the auditorium in Tilden Career Academy High School and creating a synthetic turf soccer field surrounded by a walking track at McClellan School. The field’s space formerly consisted of an asphalt lot that acted as a play area for kids at recess and an idle grassy area previously owned by the City. The field is open only to students and faculty during school hours, but the public may use it during after school.

Thompson has contacted school principals throughout the 11th Ward regarding needs at their facilities. “One of the biggest problems we see at our schools are they are not Americans with Disabilities Act accessible,” said Thompson. “McClellan was built in 1881 and did not have an elevator,” so workers have added an elevator to the building’s south side. 

The Chicago Department of Transportation plans to improve Pershing Road between Ashland and Wentworth Avenues.

The alderman showed a map labeled with various colors to display the ward’s improved infrastructure. Each color represented a different project from the period 2015 to 2019. Projects included street and alley resurfacing as well as sidewalk, lighting, and viaduct improvements. “What I’m really proud of is the quality and amount of work that we were able to accomplish throughout the ward, not just in one area,” said Thompson, who noted he and Cook County Commissioner John Daley (D-11th) evaluate projects based on “need, equity, fairness, and making sure projects are equally distributed throughout the entire ward.” 

Don Jerome has been 9th District (Deering) Chicago Police commander for more than a year, and Thompson called Jerome “very active and responsive.” Albert Oseguera recently joined Jerome’s team as captain. In emphasizing public safety’s importance, Thompson reminded the community to report any suspicious activity to the police. 

“A lot of what the police do is data driven,” said Thompson. “So if we’re not reporting crimes or suspicious people or filing reports, they’re not going to see the data. If you see something, say something.”

McClellan School now has a synthetic turf soccer field, which community members may use after school hours.

McInerney Park improvements

London Walther, project manager at the Department of Planning and Construction of the Chicago Park District, presented two playground options for Mclnerney Park, 4446 S. Emerald Ave. Each option had playground equipment for two age groups: ages two through five and ages five through 12. The first design features a standard playground with slides and a climbing area, while the second takes a more modern approach, with different climbing areas and three slides. 

Responding to the designs, a resident noted neither had swings, and she asked if it is possible to add them because many people she spoke to would love to have swings. She also suggested including benches for the elderly who babysit. Walther responded that including swings would change the design due to limited space. 

Other residents addressed concerns including unused space in parks, safety hazards, and periodic inspections for painted profanity and graffiti. Thompson thanked respondents for their questions and concerns, assuring them the Chicago Park District will go back to the drawing board for McInerney Park and come back to the community for final input. 

After the meeting, Walther commented on the interaction with meeting attendees, saying, “I thought it was good. We got a lot of great feedback. We’ve heard that there’s a strong need for swings, which were not a part of our original design.” 

In stressing the importance of community feedback, Walther said he and the Chicago Park District wanted to see what improvements to make, and he anticipated more feedback from Thompson and the community. 

“We’ll take feedback into consideration and then keep going from there,” added Walther. 

The Park District also plans improvements at Armour, Bosley, McGuane, and Palmisano Parks.

Charlotte Piwowar, a high school teacher and chair of the Bridgeport Alliance, said, “As someone generally interested in development trends, civic engagement, and community, I want to be well informed, and these meetings are a great way to do so.”

Particularly interested in hearing about updates to the Ramova, new developments in the ward, and the proposed shipping facility at 35th and Ashland, Piwowar added she found the Park District presentation’s format to be a step in the right direction. 

“For a while, many of us in the neighborhood have been pushing for more community-driven development in the area,” said Piwowar. “Providing a couple of options for playground styles and soliciting community input before everything is a done deal is the right idea.” While she sees room for improvement in the manner and frequency of input from residents, she felt encouraged that Thompson and the Park District are attempting to incorporate community input. 

“I hope that this is a sign that deeper, meaningful input is solicited more often from neighbors regarding developments in the ward,” concluded Piwowar.

To contact the 11th Ward office, call (773) 254-6677. To contact the Chicago Park District, call (312) 742-7529. To contact Bridgeport Alliance, email Bridgeportalliance@gmail.com.

Michael Reese location is key to Bronzeville development

By Nawal Dairi

The long-shuttered Michael Reese hospital site will undergo about 15 years of development, eventually featuring a community center, data center, life sciences campus, and 31st St. Metra station along with retail and housing (both affordable and market-based), according to the developers and City officials.

Project leaders estimate redevelopment agreements will conclude by the end of the year, and Alderman Sophia King predicts construction will begin in approximately three years and continue through four or five phases. 

BRONZEVILLE DEVELOPMENT—City officials and local leaders have big plans for revitalizing Bronzeville with housing, retail, a community center, data center, life sciences campus, and more. See page 6.

The project represents a collaborative effort of a global, research, innovation, and tourism team (GRIT) created by lead developers at Farpoint Development. The acronym also stands for, “get ready, it’s time,” in reference to economic growth on the South Side. 

The GRIT team consists of Farpoint Development, Loop Capital, Draper & Kramer, McLaurin Development, Chicago Neighborhood Initiatives, and the Bronzeville Community Development Partnership. While not part of GRIT, Skidmore Owings & Merrill, serves as the project’s consulting architect agency.

“The GRIT team was chosen with thoughtfulness to collaborate with people from different backgrounds and insights,” Eric Helfand, partner at Farpoint Development, said. “All of which will be helpful for the future development of the site. We constructed our team for everyone to have a voice at the table for decision making. This represents the overall process of how the site is being built. Alderman Sophia King has created a committee as well.”

Community input

King developed the Michael Reese Community Advisory Committee, which consists of 22 members from various backgrounds such as architecture, development, investment banking, and the community. Using specific criteria, such as experience in development and proximity to the site, she accepted members from a pool of more than 150 applicants. 

“Any huge development should have a community leading the charge,” King said. “The committee has been helpful to the GRIT team in visualizing the development for the community.”  

The committee currently meets every two weeks with City officials and GRIT to voice members’ opinions. Recently, the committee developed subcommittees based on expertise, enabling members to assist with architecture, infrastructure, and transportation concepts.

The development site counts 100 acres, with 48.6 acres consisting of the Michael Reese hospital site owned by the City, 40 acres owned by the Metropolitan Pier Exhibition Authority, and 11 acres owned by private businesses such as McDonald’s and Advocate. 

“This is not a site where we had to demolish something and displace people,” Paula Robinson, president of the Bronzeville Community Development Partnership, said. “This is at the head of the Bronzeville south lakefront, where we can reignite the area with renewable energy and infrastructure. We are reinvigorating an area of innovation and entrepreneurship.”

Bronzeville presents an opportunity zone for Chicago under the Tax Cuts and Job Act of 2017. Both Farpoint and King feel redeveloping this area may help alleviate concerns about Chicago talent moving to the east and west coasts. 

Courtesy SOM
Bronzeville’s 31st Street would become a thriving business, residential, research, and commercial corridor.

Jobs and opportunities

King elaborated on the development’s potential to build talent in Chicago. “Life sciences is a practical approach to harnessing the talent leaving the city to stay here by building a health campus,” she said. “In doing so, we can also celebrate the history of the former Michael Reese site. This is an important piece of bringing jobs and an array of opportunities for the community to take advantage of.” 

Plans for the development’s community center integrates efforts toward historic preservation. Along with creating a functional hub for community members, the center will incorporate historical visuals and celebrate Bronzeville’s history. 

“We have a responsibility to maintain the culture of Bronze-ville,” said Regina Stilp, partner at Farpoint Development. “This is a development for the local and global community as well as a continuation of the skyline of Chicago.” 

The development also will address five core ideas through the acronym WRELM: work, relate, eat, learn, and move. WRELM seeks to develop what Scott Goodman, partner at Farpoint Development, referred to as “the healthy community of tomorrow.”

Naomi Davis, president and CEO of Blacks in Green, noted the need for walkable villages in the region. “We want the City to endorse and adopt our sustainable square mile where African American families can walk to work, walk to shop, walk to learn, and walk to play,” Davis said. “I believe that the City has an outright duty to use one of its most precious assets, City owned land, in whatever construct of equity agenda. I know this is what Mayor Lori Lightfoot wants to do, and I know it’s difficult, but if we can send a man into deep space and return him safely, we can do this.”

Mayor Lightfoot’s INVEST South/West initiative seeks to gather corporations and community organizations to invest in opportunities for ten southern and western Chicago neighborhoods, one of which is Bronzeville. 

“Our intention was to invest in the South Side,” said Elle Ramel, partner at Farpoint Development. “For us, it’s a nice alignment because when Mayor Lightfoot issued INVEST South/West we had already started. This development is consistent with the administration’s vision of investing in the South and West Sides and the City’s move toward economic growth.”  

Anchor tenant

The group planning the project has obtained an anchor tenant in a medical innovation center to be founded by an Israeli hospital, Sheba Medical Center, located outside Tel Aviv. The ARC Innovation Center would anchor a health-science cluster that would create new biomedical technologies.

ARC stands for Accelerate, Redesign, Collaboration. It would be located in part of an existing building at the corner of 31st Street and Cottage Grove Avenue.

The project will not include a casino, King said. “The community is adamantly against a casino at the former Michael Reese site,” she noted. “Casinos are known to have deleterious impacts on existing communities, especially communities of color.”

Skidmore, Owings, & Merrill (SOM) is the architectural and engineering firm working on the plans.

Farpoint Development’s website is https://www.farpointdev.com/, and the phone number is (312) 971-2525. For the Bronzeville Community Development Partnership, log on to https://bronzevillepartners.com/, or call (773) 532-9850. Blacks in Green’s website is https://www.blacksingreen.org/ Alderman King’s website is http://www.aldsophiaking.com/, and her phone number is (773) 536-8103. SOM’s website is www.som.com, and the phone number is (312) 554-9090.

Minstrel vs. Puppet film highlights women’s internal conflict surrounding brains, beauty

By Claire Cowley

A film screened in late February at the University of Illinois at Chicago, Minstrel Vs. Puppet, showcases societal challenges diverse women of color face.

Hannah Bonecutter, a first-year master of public health graduate student at the UIC School of Public Health and creator of the film, hosted an open screening and discussion in collaboration with the UIC Black Graduate Student Association, the UIC African-American Cultural Center, the UIC Urban Health Program, and the School of Public Health’s Minority Students for the Advancement of Public Health.

UIC student Hannah Bonecutter, writer and star of the movie.

The film illustrates issues regarding racism, physical superficiality versus natural beauty, wealth disparity, higher education, and objectification through Bonecutter’s educational and artistic expression.

“The issues in the film are what’s key,” Bonecutter said. “Many of them aren’t being talked about how they should, and people aren’t aware of the historical background.”  

The minstrel character’s idea of success, for example, overlaps with general American definitions such as ample monetary resources. She tends to aim for public acclaim as her ticket to success and has low regard for traditional pathways to other forms of achievement, such as higher education.

“The minstrel is a beauty obsessed woman of color who is fixated on her physical outward appearance, luxurious items, and superficial fame to advance herself,” Bonecutter said. 

On the other hand, the puppet is a conservative woman of color who is working toward higher education achievement.

“She looks down on superficiality and doesn’t rely on beauty to get where she wants to go,” Bonecutter said. “She’s a natural beauty, interested in intelligence, and has no desire to be noticed.”

Bonecutter said like many humans, the puppet character wants to be affirmed for who she is and is aware of her Black and Latino history.

Historical objectification

“One thing that’s important to highlight is the historical objectification of women of color…particularly slaves,” Bonecutter said. “This set a deeply rooted foundation for the societal barriers allowing these characters to be here.” 

Bonecutter mentions Sarah Baartman, who was taken from South Africa and exhibited as a freak across Britain, to emphasize a pivotal moment of focus on the physicality of the black woman. 

Baartman “was stretched to represent women of color, being something to stare at and to gawk at, simply because of outward shape,” Bonecutter said. 

Bonecutter said communities of color glorify strippers, solely predicated on women’s physicality, which can be mentally detrimental to society.

A woman of color’s outward physicality may encompass her total value as a human being, even though people bring much more to the table, Bonecutter said. 

“Black women attend colleges and universities 66% more than black men,” she said. “For most it’s proven beneficial for their futures and career goals.”

Bonecutter said the educational background, knowledge, and professionalism the puppet has give her power.

“Her power of breaking the pattern of being remembered for how you look allows a new mindset to be formed around her value,” Bonecutter said. 

Bonecutter does argue the way the minstrel looks can be a power of influence on a mass scale. 

“The minstrel is extremely alluring, attractive, and easy on eyes in a sexual way,” Bonecutter said. “Perhaps a mysterious, confident, kind of cocky way.”

Context is key in knowing when to pull from a minstrel quality or puppet quality, Bonecutter said. 

“You’re not diminishing yourself, but rather utilizing a part of yourself and naturally allowing it to come out in the appropriate context,” Bonecutter said. “We are very adaptable creatures, and the more adaptable you are to different settings, the better you will fare.”

Bonecutter said she learned where her value truly is, how her value should be represented to others, and what her value means regarding racism, discrimination, and prejudice through balancing positive attributes. 

Bonecutter as the puppet in the film Minstrel vs. Puppet.

Stereotypical portrayals

“I understand the stereotypical portrayals of women of color in society, and that doesn’t mean [women of color] have to conform,” she noted. 

Alexis Grant, a second-year doctoral student in community health sciences and president of the BGSA, said Bonecutter allows representation of herself on different levels as an actress, executive producer, writer, educator, poet, and business owner. 

“I think a lot of the time, with different identities, it’s hard to bring it all together,” Grant said. “This event was a way to recognize we can be all of these things.”

Grant said women can be graduate students, artists, and proud black women in a space created for those conversations where multiple identities are not reduced to a single thing.

“I think people might meet people they’re different from, but not necessarily have the space to have those conversations,” she stated. “They might be concerned about being politically correct.”

Grant believes allowing people who are or are not from the same community to understand people of color can celebrate diversity and value it rather than solely recognizing it exists. 

“I think having these conversations in black communities is really important, as is the diversity of blackness,” Grant said. “It’s not one narrative of what it means to be black.” 

She added she thinks these kinds of conversations need to come to the academic sphere across the board as part of recognizing black history is a part of American history.

Krystle Everett, an adult and higher education graduate student and guest at the event, said the American dream, which argues hard work and education grant success, often does not take structural racism into account. 

“The film addresses racism by bringing awareness of the term ‘minstrel’ from a historical perspective and challenging the myth of mediocrity,” Everett said. “I researched the term minstrel and learned Jim Crow originated from a minstrel character.”

Everett said the film reflects reality for women of color because society has yet to see them as full, complex human beings.

“This event brought people from different walks of life together from different religious and ethnic backgrounds, ages, and professions,” Everett said.  

Everett added she believes the film has potential to start a large social justice movement.

Bonecutter wrote and starred in the movie, playing both the minstrel and the puppet. Besides being a UIC student, she also has been active in the community with Housing Opportunities and Maintenance for Elderly, 1419 W. Carroll Ave.

The film has earned kudos including screenings at several film festivals, an award of merit at the Best Shorts Competition, and winning the Chicago section of the Gentleman Jack Real to Reel Competition (sponsored by the makers of Jack Daniel’s Gentleman Jack whiskey).

For more about Bonecutter, see www.boneclutter.com/meethannahbonecutter. For the UIC School of Public Health, see publichealth.uic.edu or call (312) 996-6620.

Short-term health insurance plans falling short

By Igor Studenkov

Short term health insurance, also called temporary or term health insurance, originally was meant to tide over people who are between jobs or waiting for other coverage or Medicare to begin until they can obtain longterm coverage.

Under the Trump administration, those plans’ limit increased from six months to 12 months. Several states, including Illinois, have limited them to six months again. 

Photo courtesy UI Health
While the Trump administration has pushed for short term insurance plans, experts note the plans may not cover needed procedures or may result in large out-of-pocket payments for patients.

Proponents argue they provide an affordable alternative to many plans on the Affordable Care Act (ACA) markets. Other experts, including at least one health insurance company, argued such plans fall far short in terms of benefits and can become more expensive quickly if one needs procedures and services such as chemotherapy or mental health care. In addition, they assert other affordable options, including group insurance pools and tax credits, can help lower the cost of ACA-compliant policies. 

When the ACA became law, Illinois was one of the states that expanded Medicaid to cover more lower income individuals than before. Since 2014, those who made $1,366 or less a month ($1,845 for a couple filing taxes jointly) can apply. Those earning more than that can buy health insurance thought the State’s health insurance marketplace.

Illinois Department of Insurance spokesperson Carol Brookens indicated those who have trouble finding affordable plans can get help.

“When consumers shop the marketplace, advanced premium tax credits may be available to help with the cost of premiums,” she stated. “Eligibility is determined based on information consumers provide, including family size and income. In 2018, more than 216,000 people received some level of credits to reduce the cost of their insurance.” The 2019 figures are not yet available.

Do not provide full coverage

Short term health insurance plans are cheaper, but the trade-off is they do not have to provide the kind of coverage longterm plans do under the ACA. Notably, they do not have to cover maternity care, mental health care, substance abuse treatment, and prescription drug purchases. For these reasons, Brookens’s department generally advises against them.

“The department is committed to ensuring Illinoisans have quality and affordable health care and all of the information they need to choose the right plan for them,” she stated. “Since short term, limited duration health insurance policies are not covered by the protections of the Affordable Care Act and often do not offer essential health benefits or coverage for preexisting conditions, we recommend that Illinois consumers shop for health insurance plans on the official marketplace through Get Covered Illinois.”

Sarah Lueck is a senior policy analyst for the Center for Budget and Policy Priorities, a research and policy institute that advocates for “federal and state policies designed both to reduce poverty and inequality and to restore fiscal responsibility in equitable and effective ways.” She specializes in health issues and said the problem with short term plans being allowed to last for a year is the illusion that they are good alternatives to longer term policies. 

“Sometimes, people think that it’s better than nothing, especially if they’re middle income and are not eligible for premium tax credits,” Lueck said. “That may not always be true. They can cost a significant amount of premiums. For the benefits that you’re getting from it, it could be a significant amount and not that much protection.”

She pointed to a recent Leukemia and Lymphoma Society (LLS) study, which found that people diagnosed with lymphoma pay an average of $23,100 to $45,800 in out-of-pocket expenses, including premiums and cost sharing for medical expenses, if they are on a short term plan during the course of six months following the diagnosis. By comparison, it found that people diagnosed with lymphoma while enrolled in an ACA-compliant plan could pay $6,300, on average, in out-of-pocket expenses over the same time period.

Photo courtesy Washington University
A Leukemia and Lymphoma Society study found that people diagnosed with lymphoma pay an average of $23,100 to $45,800 in out-of-pocket expenses if they are on a short term plan.

Patients vulnerable

The findings “confirm what we long suspected—that the design of these plans leaves patients vulnerable to expensive bills,” said Gwen Nichols, MD, LLS’s chief medical officer. “Short term plans don’t offer typical health insurance benefits and provide very little protection when a patient faces a serious, unexpected diagnosis. LLS is working at the state and federal levels to protect patients from these dangerous plans. We urge cancer patients and their caregivers to ask questions about whether their treatments are covered by these plans, given their serious shortfalls.” 

Lueck argued many people may not realize they may have other, more comprehensive and equally affordable alternatives.

“People talk about robocalls, urging people to buy [short term] plans,” she said. “I worry that the marketing and their push is going to confuse people and distract them, and they will not find out about more comprehensive coverage, more affordable and that would cover you if anything catastrophic would happen.”

Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Illinois, a major health insurance provider that used to provide short term health insurance plans, no longer does so. Spokesperson Colleen Miller said, “Short term health insurance plans aren’t just shorter in duration. They can also be short on the types of benefits many people need. Short term plans may exclude people with preexisting conditions, can include waiting periods for coverage, and may not cover essential health benefits offered by more comprehensive ACA plans. They also may not meet the needs of those who have multiple or chronic health conditions and require longer term care.”

“I agree that short term medical plans are not the ‘idea’” health insurance, but they do serve a benefit to folks that are healthy without any pre-existing conditions,” said Carmen P. Valentino, licensed health insurance agent from the Healthcare Solutions Team. “I encourage folks who are considering purchasing a short term medical plan to bundle them with minimal essential coverage, accidental and critical illness policies for more comprehensive coverage.”

Open enrollment for an ACA insurance plan on the Illinois exchange for 2020 has ended, although due to the coronavirus (COVID-19), some elected officials are talking about opening it up again, but they have not done so as Gazette Chicago went to press. The next open enrollment period is scheduled to begin Sunday, Nov. 1.

Log on to www.bcbsil or call (312) 653-6000 for Blue Cross and Blue Shield. For the Center on Budget and Policy Priorities, log on to www.dbpp.org or call (202) 408-1080. Get Covered Illinois, the State’s official health coverage marketplace, is at getcovered.illinois.gov/en or call (800) 318-2596. For the Illinois Department of Insurance, call (217) 782-4515 or log on to insurance.illinois.gov. Log on to www.lls.org for the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society or call (800) 955-4572. For Valentino, call (312) 259-0333 or email cvalentino@myhst.com.

Around the Neighborhood: April 2020

By William S. Bike

Editor’s note: At press time, future events listed in Around the Neighborhood still were scheduled, but changes are happening on a daily basis due to the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic.  Check websites or call before going out in case events have been postponed or cancelled.

SUICIDE PREVENTION

The American Foundation for Suicide Prevention Illinois Chapter will hold a volunteer gathering on Saturday, April 18, in Oak Park, IL, and a research connection event on Thursday, April 30, in Chicago. Call (312) 890-2377.

BENTON HOUSE INFO

At Benton House, 3052 S. Gratten Ave., find out about public benefits such as supplemental nutrition assistance and citizenship application help. Food pantry hours are noon to 2 p.m. Fridays. Enjoy movies most Mondays at 7 p.m., senior exercise Mondays and Wednesdays at 10:30 a.m., yoga on Tuesdays at 8 p.m., and open basketball games Wednesdays at 8 p.m. Call (773) 927-6420 or email info@bentonhouse.org.

BOULEVARD NEWS

The Boulevard of Chicago at 3456 W. Franklin Blvd. provides medical respite care and housing services for homeless adults discharged from area hospitals. Call (773) 533-6013 or log on to www.blvd.org.

PASSPORT TO TASTE

Career Transitions Center’s Passport to Taste annual event as of press time is scheduled to be held Thursday, May 7, 6 to 9 p.m. at 625 W. Adams. St. Enjoy award presentations, wine, beer, food, and a silent auction. Tickets are $100 each. Call (312) 906-9908 or email ajenke@ctcchicago.org. 

NURSE CONSORTIUM NEWS

The Chicago Bilingual Nurse Consortium helps foreign-educated nurses attain licensure in Illinois. 

National Council Licensure Examination predictor tests are available to demonstrate probability of passing the nursing exam.

The organization’s website at www.chicagobilingualnurse.org also lists jobs available for nurses. For more information, call (773) 838-1870.

RENTAL ASSISTANCE

City of Chicago emergency rental assistance is available for people suffering financial hardship due to a loss of job, home fire, or illness. Call 311 or use a search engine to find City of Chicago Family & Support Services online.

SCHOLARSHIPS AVAILABLE

The Chicago Department of Family and Support Services reports that Community Services Block Grant Scholarships are available for those enrolled or planning to enroll in college or vocational training. Contact Jenny Schuler at jenny.schuler@cityofchicago.org or (312) 746-7291.

CINCO DE MAYO

Chicago Latino Network will host a Cinco de Mayo celebration Tuesday, May 5, at 6 p.m. at Roof on the Wit, 201 N. State St., 27th floor. Tickets are $25 each. See www.digitallatinos.com.

De La Salle Institute bridge builders, Alexa Acevedo, teacher Mark Jackowiak, Frank Galvin, and Judith Hernandez. 

GET ORGANIZED

Community Organizing and Family Issues, 2245 S. Michigan Ave., (312) 226-5141, organizes and trains parents to win improvements in schools and communities and in how to create organizations and programs. See cofionline.org.

DE LA SALLE NEWS

De La Salle Institute celebrated its 50th annual Honors Geometry Bridge Contest, in which students competed by building bridges to see which had the greatest strength and durability. Frank Galvan placed first, as his bridge held 270 pounds; Alexa Acevedo  placed second with a bridge withstanding 255 pounds of pressure, and Judith Hernandez garnered third place with a bridge that sustained 235 pounds. Galvan’s 270 pounds also earned him second place in the student category over the contest’s five decades. Acevedo’s 255 pounds ties her for third place in the student all-time category, with Hernandez sharing fifth place at 235 pounds.

Students participated in the Model United Nations Conference at the Hyatt-Regency Chicago, sponsored by the University of Chicago. Representing De La Salle were Michael Baker, Matthew Dixon, Branden Goeden, Byron Hidalgo, Desmond Jones, Ivan Martinez, Christian Meyer, Mateo Strainis, and Jonathan Valenzuela.

De La Salle recently received two plaudits from the Illinois Basketball Coaches Association for excellence in boys’ basketball. De La Salle won honors for reaching the 1,500-victory plateau, having won 1,751 games since the 1920-21 season, and the association lauded De La Salle head coach Tom White for winning his 400th career game in a 73-63 victory over Payton on Nov. 27. 

Six students participated in the 2020 Chicago Archdiocesan Math Competition sponsored by the Math Teachers Association of Chicago and Vicinity at Loyola University. Alexandra Brist, Christopher Considine, Victor DeAvila, Kayla Roman-Flores, Drayona Rollins, and Zheng (Jack) Sun represented De La Salle.

Roman-Flores won the 2020 National Center for Women & Information Technology (NCWIT) Aspirations in Computing Award. NCWIT honors young women in high school who are active and interested in computing and technology.

The Illinois Student Assistance Commission named 11 Class of 2020 members Illinois State Scholars: Matthew Boehm; Alexandra Brist (West Loop); Christopher Considine; Matthew Dixon; Michael Gallagher (Near West Side); Isaiah Hernandez (Near West Side); Nina Penny; Marc Rhymes; Alanna Saucedo (McKinley Park); John Stewart (Bridgeport); and Joshua Thornto.

De La Salle named Dominic Freddura head coach for lacrosse.

The De La Salle Mock Trial Team recently competed against 30 other high schools at an event held by the Northwest Suburban Bar Association. De La Salle student Jonathan Valenzuela won Outstanding Attorney against a field of nearly 100 students. Joining Valenzuela on the team were Peter Brennan, Isabella Brogan, Samantha Brost, Mackenzie Capers, Chelsea Guardiola, Judith Hernandez, Ivan Martinez, and Nadiya Muhammad.

De La Salle is located at 3434 S. Michigan Ave. Call (312) 842-7355.

LEGAL DEFENSE

First Defense Legal Aid, 5100 W. Harrison St., provides representation to people in custody, informs people of their rights, and organizes volunteers to help.

For more information, call (773) 434-4162. 

DONATIONS WELCOME

First Trinity Chicago Lutheran Church Community Center welcomes donations of clothing, shoes, and hygiene items. Volunteers accept donations on Tuesdays from 5 to 7 p.m. and Fridays from 10 a.m. to noon. The church is located at 643 W. 31st St. Call (312) 842-7390.

PARK CLEANUP

Friends of Printers Row Park will host a cleanup on Saturday, April 18, from 9 a.m. to noon. The park is at 634 S. Dearborn St. Call (312) 742-3918. 

GWTP JOB TRAINING

Greater West Town Partnership, 500 N. Sacramento Blvd., offers job placement and training programs in wood products manufacturing and shipping and receiving. Call (312) 563-9570.

HOLY FAMILY-NOTRE DAME NEWS

While Masses are suspended due to coronavirus (COVID-19) through the Easter season, Holy Family/Notre Dame Parish will offer Sunday Masses on the parish Facebook page at 10 a.m. The house chapel at the parish office, 1335 W. Harrison St., will be open Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. for personal prayer. You may park in the lot at 1334 W. Flournoy St. and enter the chapel off Harrison Street. Office hours are suspended. Email hfndparishcommunity@hf-nd.org for more information.

HONORING VETERANS

Honor Flight Chicago,a not-for-profit organization,flies veterans of the U.S. armed services to Washington, DC, at no charge for a day of recognition and sightseeing. For information on signing up a veteran for a flight, or to make a donation, log on to www.honorflightchicago.org.

HR HOTSEAT

HR HotSeat Chicagois a free monthly online meetup of more than 1,600 human resources practitioners, service providers, students, and Chicago-area professionals in job transition who come together to expand networks and solve problems. Visit www.HRHotSeat.com or email info@hrhotseat.com for a calendar of upcoming events.

GIVE BLOOD CHALLENGE

The Illinois Coalition of Community Blood Centers is launching the “#GiveBloodChallenge” to encourage people to take a brief trip to donate blood and then post a photo on social media (or at least post your appointment time) and tag ten friends to do the same. Contact Vitalant at www.vitalant.org or  (877) 258-4835 to schedule a donation time (can be done online) and post a photo on social media with the hashtag #GiveBloodChallenge. For more information, log on to www.illlinoisbloodcenters.com.

Illinois Institute of Technology has created a College of Computing to educate students in data and computation.

COLLEGE OF COMPUTING

Illinois Institute of Technology has created a College of Computing to educate students in data and computation. The new college will open June 1, ahead of the fall 2020 semester. It will house Illinois Tech’s computer science, data science, artificial intelligence, applied mathematics, cybersecurity, information technology, and management programs. Illinois Tech is at 10 W. 35th St. Call (312) 567-3000.

LOW-COST INTERNET

Internet Essentials makes it possible for people receiving public assistance to qualify for low-cost internet service. Log on to internetessentials.com.

LADIES OF VIRTUE

Ladies of Virtue,1245 S. Michigan Ave., (877) 565-7121, provides mentoring and leadership and empowering experiences, including help with school applications, for girls ages nine through 18 from underserved communities. Log on to lovchicago.org.

LATINO UNION

Latino Union of Chicago collaborates with low-income workers to improve their social and economic conditions through employment opportunities. Log on to latinounion.org or call (312) 491-9044. For those looking to hire workers, call (773) 588-2641.

RENTERS’ SERVICES

The Lawyers Committee for Better Housing provides eligible renters with supportive services and free legal aid. The LCBH also offers Rennie the Chatbot at rentervention.com to help with people’s housing problems. The LCBH is located at 33 N. LaSalle St. Call (312) 347-7600 or log on to www.lcbh.org.

Photo by Alexander Giraldo
Former 11th Ward Alderman James Balcer at the podium at the recent Vietnam War Memorial commemoration.

VETS HONORED

Former 11th Ward Alderman James Balcer on March 8 gathered with other Vietnam era veterans at the Vietnam War Memorial at State Street and Wacker Drive to commemorate the 55th anniversary of U.S. Marines landing in Danang, South Vietnam. Balcer gave a keynote speech, joined by about ten Vietnam and other veterans. The group also visited the wall at the memorial, which lists the 2,995 Illinois military personnel killed in the Vietnam War as well as Vietnam War prisoners of war and Medal of Honor winners from Illinois.

AWARDS PRESENTED

The McKinley Park Civic Association recently presented the William H.G. Toms Community Service Award to Steve Demitro and the Educator of the Year award to Nathanael Greene Elementary School teacher Michelle McKeown. Other winning teachers were Marty Basco of Evergreen Academy Middle School, Mark Darnall of Thomas Kelly College Prep, Patrick Hunter of Horizon Science Academy-McKinley Park, Cindy Mlynarski of Burroughs Elementary School, Br. Christopher Oddo of De La Salle Institute, Miguel Patino of Blessed Sacrament Parish, and Sara Urban of Namaste Charter School. The association also recognized winning student essayists Layla Cruz, Zoe Martinez, Rosie Moreno, Giselle Rios, and Gavin Torres. For more information, email info@mckinleypark.news or call (312) 560-1115.

MENTORS SOUGHT

Mercy Home for Boys & Girls seeks adults to be mentors for youngsters. Learn more at MercyHome.org/ChicagoGazette.

LETTERS OF INTENT

Six Mount Carmel High School students signed letters of intent to play sports at various colleges and universities: football players Michael Foggie, Valparaiso University; Jalen Grant, Bowling Green State University; Aaron Lopez, Augustana College; Lance Swain, Quincy University; and Jason Thompson, Carthage College; and wrestler Alex Lelezas, Campbell University. The school is located at 6410 S. Dante Ave. Call (773) 359-0497.

Six Mount Carmel High School students signed letters of intent to play sports at various colleges and universities.

MERIT GALA

Merit School of Music will honor Richard Colburn of the Negaunee Foundation and the Civitas Ensemble at its 41st annual benefit gala at Four Seasons Hotel Chicago, 120 E. Delaware Pl., on Tuesday, May 5. The gala starts with a reception at 6 p.m., followed by dinner and student-led concert program at 7 p.m. Tickets are $500 each. Log on to meritmusic.org/gala.

EMPOWERING LATINAS

Mujeres Latinas en Accion empowers Latinas through service and advocacy. Their domestic violence crisis hotline is (312) 738-5358 and their rape crisis hotline is (888) 293-2080. Mujeres is located at 2124 W. 21st Pl. Call (773) 890-7676.

IMMIGRANT JUSTICE

The National Immigrant Justice Center, 224 S. Michigan Ave., provides comprehensive legal services to low-income immigrants, refugees, and asylum seekers. It will continue to do intakes over the phone during the coronavirus crisis. Call (312) 660-1370 or log on to www.immigrantjustice.com.

SAINT IGNATIUS NEWS

Saint Ignatius College Prep reunions are set for Saturday, April 18, for the 1995, 2000, 2005, and 2010 classes.

The school is located at 1076 W. Roosevelt Rd. Call (312) 421-5900.

POMPEII NEWS

The Shrine of Our Lady of Pompeii offers virtual meditations as well as virtual novena prayers Wednesday through Thursday, April 1 through 9. Log on to www.ourladyofpompeii.org/news/virtual-meditation/. The church is at 1224 W. Lexington St. Call (312) 421-3757.

INTERNET COURSES

Public Narrative,600 S. Michigan Ave., offers courses in various locations on topics including social media, communication plans, podcasting, search engine optimization, and analytics. Call (312) 369-6400.

RUSH GENERATIONS

Rush Generations, a health and aging program, offers classes, screenings, support groups, and other programs for older adults and caregivers. On the third Thursday of every month, including April 17, Rush’s Diabetes Support and Education Group meets to share healthful habits, establish longterm health goals, and learn about nutrition and lifestyle changes that can help participants live with diabetes. A licensed physical therapist will offer Balance Screening on Tuesday, April 21, plus tips to improve balance and reduce fear of falling. Rush’s Take Charge of Your Diabetes Workshop meets for six Wednesdays, beginning April 22, to help participants build skills and gain confidence in managing diabetes and leading an active, fulfilling life. All programs take place on the Rush University Medical Center campus on the Near West Side. For more information or to register for an event, call (800) 757-0202.

CRIME VICTIM ASSISTANCE

Attorney General Kwame Raoul’s Crime Victims Services Bureau helps those dealing with the effects of crime. Call (800) 228-3368.

CONTACT ROBINSON

State Representative Lamont J. Robinson (D-5th) wants to hear what residents think are the most important issues in the community. Contact him at (773) 924-4614 or at his office at 5048 S. Indiana Ave.

TRAUMA HELPLINE

The toll-free TURN Trauma Counseling Helpline,(833) TURN123, operates from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday, Wednesday, and Friday. TURN stands for The Urban Resilience Network, and the helpline assists those experiencing trauma caused by exposure to violence. The organization also provides trained ambassadors to visit community events and schools to educate about trauma.

BUSINESS ASSISTANCE

If your business has experienced substantial economic injury due to the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic, the U.S. Small Business Association is authorized to issue assistance through a small business economic injury disaster loan program. This program can provide low interest loans of up to $2 million to businesses and private non-profits. See https://disasterloan.sba.gov/ela/.

SUMMERLAB

The University of Chicago Laboratory Schools will host Summer Lab, Monday, June 22, through Friday, July 31, featuring a day camp, theatre training, summer school, sports, dance, and recreation. Log on to SummerLab.org.

BLOOD NEEDED

Vitalant,the Chicago area’s largest blood center, is facing an emergency need for blood and platelets. To donate, visit vitalant.org or call (877) 258-4825.

HIV+ WOMEN

The Women’s Treatment Center offers free assistance with online applications for enrollment into the Illinois Ryan White Part B Program for HIV+ women. Call (312) 850-0050, x4994. The center is at 140 N. Ashland Ave. Log on to www.womenstreatmentcenter.org.

Need for blood at all-time high; Give Blood Challenge is now underway 

School closures and business disruption due to the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic have caused officials to cancel hundreds of blood drives across the state, putting patients who need blood at risk. The Illinois Coalition of Community Blood Centers has launched the #GiveBloodChallenge to encourage people to make a brief trip to donate blood and then post a photo on social media (or at least post your appointment time) and tag ten friends to do the same. Donors may schedule a time at their local blood centers online 24/7.

“Unlike hand sanitizer and paper products, which can be stockpiled, whole blood has a very short 42-day shelf life—only five days for platelets—and constantly needs to be replenished,” explained Margaret Vaughn, government affairs director of the Illinois Coalition of Community Blood Centers. “The Food and Drug Administration reports that the coronavirus does not pose any known risk to a blood donor during the donation process or by attending a mobile blood drive, which are not ‘mass gatherings’ but sterile environments, where healthy people can donate.” 

Photo courtesy Red Cross
Donating blood is easy, and blood centers need donations during a time of critical shortages to ensure hospitals have what they need to treat patients.

 “With so many people being taken away from their regular activity schedule, this is a perfect opportunity to contact their local blood center and make an appointment to donate blood,” said ICCBC vice president Heidi Ognibene, director of operations at Rock River Valley Blood Center. “The screening process takes about 15 minutes, and the actual blood donation portion takes five to ten minutes, but your efforts can mean a lifetime to those in need.”

“Less than an hour of your day can make a tremendous impact on the lives of people going through cancer treatments, childbirth, trauma surgeries, anemia, sickle cell, burn injuries, etc.,” said ICCBC president Jim Watts, who works at Mississippi Valley Regional Blood Center. “So much attention is on the coronavirus that people are overlooking the fact that patients across the state are going through medical procedures around the clock, which require a safe and adequate blood supply which is now dwindling.”

If you are 17 years old (16 with parental permission), in good health, and weigh at least 110 pounds, you may be eligible to donate blood. The donation process consists of a health screening, donating time, and snack. The actual donation time lasts about ten to 15 minutes.

To donate blood, call Vitalant at (877) 258-4835 or visit its website, www.vitalant.org, to schedule a donation time. Then post a photo on social media with the hashtag #GiveBloodChallenge. For more information, log on to www.illlinoisbloodcenters.com.

Railroad noise disturbs peace for nearby Near South residents

Excessive sound from railroad operations is disturbing some Near South/South Loop residents.

George Rudawski, secretary of the homeowners’ association for residential properties at 1501 to 1511 S Prairie Ave., noted the disturbance occurs on the St. Charles Air Line, a nearby northbound elevated railroad track that turns west on 15th Street. Canadian National Railway owns the track. 

Noise from freight trains running along the St. Charles Air Line is disturbing Near South/South Loop residents.

“I didn’t realize the proximity with the trains and with the noise would be so disturbing,” said Rudawski. He and other residents have experienced a loud metallic screeching noise caused by freight trains. The noise exceeds 100 decibels, he said. Rudawski’s household and others are located close to the turning point used by freight trains. 

Rudawski emphasized the noise becomes most bothersome in the wee hours, about “4:45 in the morning, and the noise really wakes up everybody,” he said. 

Rudawski contacted the Chicago Department of Transportation, proposing that workers grease the tracks to alleviate screeching. After the department investigated, the noise stopped temporarily but then gradually started coming back, he said.

Train noise lasts roughly five to ten minutes. Said Rudawski, “It can go for a while until the train passes. It’s a persistent screeching noise that goes on and off.” He emphasized how the sounds occurring at night aggravate residents, especially when two sets of freight trains pass over the tracks in one night (which happens often). “Your sleep is ruined, and that’s unacceptable,” he said. 

The South Loop’s high population means the situation affects many people adversely. “We have a lot of people living right next to that calamity of a track,” said Rudawski. The noise causes “extreme nuisance to the neighborhood and degrades the quality of life in the South Loop.” 

Rudawski also raised concern about potential incidents in a densely populated area next to a playground and a park, as some freight cars appear to be carrying oil. “It’s amazing that the company would be so myopic to disregard their 2013 disaster in a town in Quebec to allow these dangerous trains through Chicago,” said Rudawski.

Like Rudawski, 3rd Ward Alderman Pat Dowell feels concern over train noise. Her office has hosted numerous town hall meetings about the St. Charles Air Line’s operations and reconstruction, where residents have added their voices to the call for solutions. 

“While I don’t know the exact nature or frequency of the noise, I know it is something that is affecting the quality of life of my constituents,” said Dowell. “To that end, I have already engaged the Chicago Department of Transportation on the issue, and I am working with Congressman Danny Davis as well, as most train regulations, including noise, are handled at the Federal level by the Federal Railroad Administration.”

Dowell noted Canadian National ought to acknowledge South Loop residents. “Even though the train has been in the area for over 100 years, the South Loop neighborhood has grown and changed significantly in recent years, becoming a bustling center of beautiful homes and local businesses,” she said. “That has to be accounted for by Canadian National.”

Dowell stated her goal is “to ensure that the railroad is a meaningful, open, and transparent partner in the community, who works with us to improve the quality of life for everyone along the St. Charles Air Line.”

Canadian National did not respond to requests for comment.  

Davis can be contacted at (773) 533-7520. Dowell’s office phone number is (773) 373-9273. 

—Rodrigo Hernandez

De La Salle chooses new principal, Thomas J. Schergen

De La Salle Institute’s board of directors announced it appointed Thomas J. Schergen principal of the 130-year-old co-educational Catholic and Lasallian high school.

Schergen, a member of the school’s Class of 1997, will assume his post on Wednesday, July 1.

Thomas J. Schergen.

“De La Salle is pleased to welcome one of our alums as the academic leader of our school,” De La Salle’s president, the Rev. Paul Novak, OSM, said. “Mr. Schergen’s strong academic vision and his familiarity with our Lasallian spirituality and Catholic mission will enable him to guide De La Salle into the future.”

Schergen replaces Diane Brown, who is retiring on Tuesday, June 30.

“Becoming the principal at De La Salle Institute is a great opportunity,” Schergen said. “Some people never get the chance to pursue their dream job, so I am fortunate to be able to return to a place that is special to me.

“Not only do I get to return to my alma mater, but I am able to lead the dedicated faculty and staff of De La Salle and guide the institution forward,” Schergen added.

Schergen currently is principal of IC Catholic Prep in Elmhurst, IL, where he also served as president and athletic director in his eight-year tenure.

Before beginning at IC Catholic Prep, Schergen worked at Marist High School and Maria High School. He previously taught at De La Salle Institute in 2001-2002.

“My main goals are to begin to have some focused conversations with the current faculty and administration to begin to build our future vision,” Schergen said. “I believe in creating a student-centered atmosphere and allowing the students of De La Salle to contribute to the culture of the building.

“I will focus on continuing the traditions of De La Salle, along with keeping the Lasallian mission strong and at the core of what we do as a school community,” Schergen added.

Schergen earned a bachelor’s degree in special and elementary education from Illinois State University in 2001 and a master’s degree in educational administration from Saint Xavier University in 2005.

De La Salle is located at 3434 S. Michigan Ave. Log on to www.dls.org.

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Chicago, IL
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Mark J. Valentino
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