Wednesday, December 31, 2008

Signs and piles of rubbles

When I took these pictures no one was working here although there was some work being done last week here at 97th and Michigan.

My mother and I noticed some water seeping out of the street and this was sometime before Christmas before the snow had melted and while the weather was very cold. She assumed it might have been a water main break. Eventually there was a little stream running accross the street toward Harlan High School.

The pictures you see are the obstacles and signs put up by city workers. The signs that seek to discourage motorists from heading onto Michigan Ave. Those are on 97th Street with a sign near the alley and another one on Indiana Ave.

Scandal/impeachment/appointment items

Happy New Years to you. I want to start New Years Day right. I won't publish a compilation tomorrow and I'll keep today's brief.

Feds seek extension for Blagojevich indictment - AP

Capitol Fax offers a round up of items on this story today.

Items from Le·gal In·sur·rec·tion

The "Rule of Law" Applies to Gitmo Detainees, But Not Roland Burris
Blagojevich Plays The Race Card On Fellow Democrats
Fitzgerald Must Be Worried Blagojevich Will Survive Impeachment

Roland Burris, Senate-appointee - It's My Mind

Burris failed his only major test in office as AG - Eric Zorn
On Valentine's Day 1992, Mary Brigid Kenney, the assistant attorney general whom Burris had assigned to fight the appeal of Death Row inmate Rolando Cruz, sent Burris a memo identifying numerous errors in the investigation and trial that had put Cruz on Death Row for the 1983 murder of 11-year-old Jeanine Nicarico in DuPage County.

The memo concluded, "I cannot, in good conscience, allow my name to appear on a brief asking . . . to affirm this conviction." Rather than re-examining the case, Burris took Kenney off it.

She then resigned with a stinging letter to Burris. "I was being asked to help execute an innocent man," she told him. "Unfortunately, you have seen fit to ignore the evidence in this case."

The evidence he ignored included apparent "perjured testimony" and "fraudulent investigations by local officials," to use Burris' words from last Thursday.

Special election hopes revived in Springfield - Crain's

So I got an e-mail yesterday evening...

From the blogger at Le·gal In·sur·rec·tion notifying me that he added me to his collection of sources regarding the Blagojevich scandal. I'm very flattered by his basic description of this blog.
"Dispatches from Chicago's south side." Obsessed with Blago and potholes, not that there's anything wrong with that.
I hope that the frequent posts about Illinois under Blagojevich doesn't come off as obsessed. :P

As for the potholes well it is topical, it is an issue that you'll find around the city. That reminds me he enjoyed my posts on potholes enough to link to one of them in that description I just posted. Thus stay tuned for another couples posts on the pictures I took on Monday although it doesn't involve potholes.

As a matter of fact I wasn't going to do but one post for today, New Year's Eve, but it might be three as per normal and New Year's Day will become the single post day.

Of course I'm still flattered that I'm included on his list of Blagojevich scandal blogs.

Tuesday, December 30, 2008

Blagojevich to name Burris to Senate

ADDITION: An AP story with regards to the press conference that announced Burris' appointment as Obama's US Senate replacement.

From the Tribune. At this point in time I'm not sure I want my name attached to a disgraced Governor, especially with the knowledge that the US Senate might not allow me to be admitted into the chamber. I suppose since the Governor is fighting the current charges against him, he might as well appoint a man to fill Obama's seat.

Apparently he's been making noises since Obama's ascension to the Presidency as well as not too long after the Governor's arrest for attempting to sell off the vacant US Senate seat to the highest bidder.

ADDENDUM: This is a particularly significant piece of news for this blog, as Roland Burris is currently a resident of the Sixth Ward.

More potholes!

Here are a couple of video clips on potholes from Channel 2. Auto body shops are doing good business because of the potholes and city crews prepare to take on this menace

This pothole is actually at the intersection of 95th and Indiana near the corner of Wesley Church.

The rest of these potholes are found at various points on Michigan Avenue

These potholes are close to the Bishop Ford Expressway abotu 99th and Michigan.

 
  
 
Previous post on potholes was published yesterday!

Welcome to Willye White Park

This is really an old post that mentions that up in the 49th Ward there is a park named for a former 6th Ward resident and a former 2003 Aldermanic candidate. It was published on December 11th on the  24/7 North of Howard Watchers blog.

Monday, December 29, 2008

Small businesses desperately seek customers and help for job seekers

I post this WBBM-TV report to ask if small businesses in the 6th ward are suffering in the current state of the economy?

John Challenger representing Challenger, Gray & Christmas, Inc. was briefly interviewed by Rob Johnson on the 5PM news on Channel 2. He said that there are more bankers and lawyers seeking job hunting advice more than usual. Anyway here's the info you're looking for.
Free Job-Search Advice
December 29, 2008 - CBS 2 News at 5PM

To help job seekers improve their odds of success in the increasingly competitive employment market, global outplacement consultancy Challenger, Gray & Christmas, Inc., will suspend normal business operations on December 29 and 30 to take phone calls from anyone needing job-search advice. The annual two-day national job search call-in will run from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Central Standard Time both days. The telephone number is (312) 332-5790.
You can check out more info over at the Link & Numbers page over at CBS2Chicago.com.

Potholes on Michigan Avenue

There are some other assorted pics that are worth posting but I'll sit on them for the time being. Perhaps whatever I have I'll post until I've run out of posts for this photographs. I checked on side streets for potholes, but Michigan Avenue seems to have the worse of em couldn't find any on the side streets.

These pics are again an indication of Chicago's streetcar past. Some of these pic expose the cobblestone streets or the rails that the street cars formerly run on. The first pic is again from near the intersection of 95th & Michigan. You can look at the previous pic at this link.

The next pictures are looking north towards 95th & Michigan
The next set of pictures are located near the 9700 block of South Michigan.

Give me one--just one--Harvey Milk

I wanted to share this post from over at Clout City talking about the new film Milk about the first openly gay San Francisco city councilman. The post connected the situation of the eponymous Harvey Milk with the current political situation in Chicago politics. We may know about the cautious moderates who may raise a fuss, but not enough. However, where are Chicago's radicals and why aren't they being heard?

Scandal/impeachment items

Post updated throughout the day!

The governor is a cooked goose - Rich Miller

Quinn predicts guv’s departure - AP

Holder adds Blago link to his confirmation papers - Sun-Times
Eric Holder -- President-elect Barack Obama's pick to head the Justice Department -- has amended his Senate Judiciary Committee confirmation paperwork to include a tie to Gov. Blagojevich.

That follows a report Dec. 17 in the Chicago Sun-Times disclosing that Holder had left out the fact that Blagojevich planned to appoint him in 2004 as a special investigator to the Illinois Gaming Board and that Holder had made a public appearance with the governor regarding that effort.
A look ahead - Capitol Fax

House impeachment panel to reconvene - Tribune

‘Airing of grievances’ becomes Blagojevich impeachment panel theme - State Journal-Register

Emanuel resigns seat effective Friday - Crain's
Under the U.S. Constitution and state law, Gov. Rod Blagojevich has five days to set the dates for special primary and general elections, both of which must be held within 115 days of when he makes that scheduling decision.

But it’s unclear whether the governor has five days to set the dates starting today, when the congressman sent the governor a letter about his plans to resign, or on Friday, when Mr. Emanuel said his resignation would be effective. Representatives of the governor and congressman could not be reached. A spokesman for the Chicago Board of Elections did not have an immediate explanation.
Feds seek court OK to release some Blago tapes to impeachment panel - Crain's

Impeachment evidence lacking: guv's atty. - AP

Rod Blagojevich back at work - AP

Blagojevich Impeachment Inquiry Shifts to Contracts - Bloomberg

Legislators say capital bill, budget on tap after impeachment
- Sun-Times

Feds showed early interest in Blagojevich hiring - Tribune

Blagojevich remarks don't mean he did anything illegal, attorney says - The Southern

Blagojevich attorney: No reason to impeach - Daily Herald

Sunday, December 28, 2008

Operation Pothole

I'm sure everyone has potholes up and down their streets. I know there are more than a few on mine. WLS-TV wants to know about the potholes on your street. In addition, they offer information to contact city and state offices resposible for the conditions of roads and streets.

You know I intended to take some pics of our potholes but I neglected to bring my point and shoot camera with me so that might have to wait until tomorrow. Also I hope to find some articles on potholes around the city. I missed a segment on the 9PM news on FOX 32 tonight. I'm hoping other stations or news sources have some stories to present.

BTW, I'm glad all this snow and ice has finally melted!

Pic found here thru Google Image Search.

Saturday, December 27, 2008

Their year of buying black

From last Sunday's Sun-Times:
Consumers worldwide might be tightening their belts, but Maggie Anderson's mind is black with plots to spend.

Her Oak Park family is publicly committing to a year of buying from black-owned business and supporting black professionals exclusively, starting Jan. 1.

Maggie Anderson, daughter Cara and husband John vow to buy only from black-owned firms in 2009.

These days, she's searching frantically for black-owned firms for staple items and services, until she and her husband, John, can broaden their awareness of businesses and professionals.

That means she's got to find a new dry cleaner. She's looking for a place to gas up the family's two cars. And locating black McDonald's franchises is a must. "My girls love the fries," she said of her two daughters.

Her family's efforts will be followed by a team of college researchers as part of a project called the Ebony Experiment to determine the impact of the Andersons' spending if extrapolated to a larger portion of black America.
Read the whole article and where would you suggest this family spend their money. Especially if their search for black businesses or professionals should take them here into the 6th.

Scandal/impeachment items

Compiling links from throughout the weekend! I just noticed that I've picked up a lot of items from sources around the nation. Illinois politics has been front page news across the nation and even the world, unfortunately, it had to take the arrest of Blagojevich to get this type of attention.

An Illinois Dynasty Grapples with the Blagojevich Scandal - Time

Blagojevich says he's fighting for people of Ill. - AP

Rod Blagojevich, Eliot Spitzer, John Edwards Top Santa's 'Naughty List' - Associated Content

'Chicago II": The Rod Blogevich Story - Merced Sun-Star

Blagojevich subpoena request criticized - Tribune

The Official Guide To Blagojevich Blogs - Le·gal In·sur·rec·tion

Blagojevich may not hurt chances at stimulus money - pjstar

Burns' Plan To Fill Obama's Senate Seat - Progress Illinois

You know the actions of the Governor will probably hurt other governor's in the long run perhaps we can quell another absurd precent, but making Rep-elect Burns permanent. The Governor's choice to fill a US Senate seat should be subject to approval by the General Assembly.

What's on the Blagojevich tapes? - Kansas City Star

Gov. Blagojevich omitted an important Kipling line - The Olympian

Chicago Furniture Company Mocks Illinois Governor in Newspaper Ad - Cleveland Leader

Is Blago on the wrong planet? - Illinois Review

Friday, December 26, 2008

Chicago, America's most segregated big city

Tribune:
The paths taken by Colin Lampark and Rosalyn Bates help illustrate why Chicago is the most racially segregated big city in America.

Both are young professionals with handsome earning potential. Both moved to the city a few years ago—Lampark, 28, to Lincoln Park; Bates, 31, to Bronzeville. And both chose neighborhoods reflecting their race, a practice common in Chicago.

Their personal stories, and many others, explain why blacks in Chicago are the most isolated racial group in the nation's 20 largest cities, according to a Tribune analysis of 2008 population estimates. To truly integrate Chicago, 84 percent of the black or white population would need to change neighborhoods, the data show.

The calculations paint a starkly different picture from the ones broadcast across the nation during Barack Obama's Election Night rally last month, when his hometown looked like one unified, harmonious city.

The fact is, racial patterns that took root in the 1800s are not easy to reverse. Racial steering, discriminatory business practices and prejudice spawned segregation in Chicago, and now personal preferences and economics fuel it.
 Also note...
Blacks make up about 35 percent of Chicago's population of nearly 3 million and are largely concentrated on the South and West Sides. Whites make up nearly 28 percent, largely located to the north and in slivers of the South Side, while Hispanics, about 30 percent of the population, are scattered to the Northwest and Southwest Sides of the city center.
Furthermore:
Some studies show that blacks tend to prefer a more diverse neighborhood, something closer to a 50-50 split of blacks and whites, but those tend not to exist in a city as old as Chicago.

Research indicates that whites tend to have a lower tolerance for blacks and other minorities. A 2000 study found that whites prefer neighborhoods where they are nearly 60 percent of the population and blacks represent about 17 percent.

One theory posits that whites associate black neighborhoods with high crime and poor-quality schools. A recent study conducted in the Chicago and Detroit areas by the University of Illinois at Chicago and University of Michigan found that whites consistently rate a neighborhood higher when its residents are white regardless of the physical quality of the neighborhood.

Not only do the studies show a white reluctance to move into black neighborhoods, research shows that the share of whites who say they would leave a neighborhood grows as the proportion of black residents increases. That has proved true in Chicago.
Another important note...
A final factor often cited as a reason that segregation persists is economics. Poor end up living with poor, and because blacks maintain the lowest place on the socioeconomic food chain, they are often lumped together.

But research shows that blacks largely remain segregated from whites across income levels, though to a lesser extent than 30 years ago.

Many higher-income African-Americans who could afford to live anywhere in the city choose to live among blacks, even at the expense of wealth accumulation in their homes.

"It provides a certain comfort for middle-class African-Americans who may work in a corporate environment where they are minorities to live in a neighborhood where they aren't a minority," said Richard Pierce, chairman of the Africana studies department at the University of Notre Dame.

Via Newsalert!

Scandal/impeachment items

Took a break for Christmas Day and Eve I hope everyone who read this blog had a very blessed holiday!

People of Illinois need a bit of a timeout - Defender
There is no doubt that the allegations against Gov. Rod Blagojevich are alarming and identify some brazen activities on his part. The allegations cast a pall of negativity over the state’s image, especially coming after the immediate past governor was convicted of malfeasance similar to Blagojevich’s accusations.

To invoke a pay-to-play practice in the state’s business practice is not only deplorable and down right shameful, it hurts the worthy businesses denied an opportunity to fairly compete for contracts with the state, which could help the businesses’ bottom line and, thus, the Illinois residents they employ.

Selling a coveted Senate seat for any kind of gain–personal or political–as Blagojevich is charged with doing, is beyond comprehension, counterproductive to the citizens of this state, and an injustice to the worthy, competent and accomplished candidates who may be interested in the post.

Blacks say they retain clout despite possible loss of Senate seat - Defender
Despite the scandal swirling about Gov. Rod Blagojevich and the delay in choosing a replacement for President-elect Barack Obama's U.S. Senate seat, Black politicians say the controversy and delay will not diminish Black political clout in the state.

“I don’t think that any political clout has been compromised,” said U.S. Rep. Danny Davis, D-7th, who said that the scandal has “damaged” politics in general.

State Rep. David Miller agreed, stating that the Black community has a relationship with many elected officials, including others whose names were tossed in the ring for the vacancy, such as Madigan and Giannoulias.

Talks With Blagojevich 'Innocent' - American Chronicle

Guv's woes are a big gift for some - Greg Hinz

Advice for Obama on Blagojevich Scandal - CPR

State Capitol Q&A: Why Blagojevich hasn't stepped down
- State Journal Register

Video: Gov. Blagojevich Plays "Sen. Clay Davis" From The Wire
Watch the eerie similarities between indicted Illinois Governor Rod Blagojevich, and "The Wire" character, "Sen. Clay Davis." Who says art doesn't reflect, and sometimes dictate, life?

Obama Questioned by FBI for Two Hours - Newsalert

Blagojevich's lawyer asks House for subpoenas - Sun-Times
Gov. Blagojevich’s lead lawyer has asked the Illinois House panel weighing whether to impeach the governor to subpoena three high-profile witnesses.

The lawyer, Ed Genson, said Wednesday that testimony by Valerie Jarrett, a top adviser to President-elect Barack Obama; U.S. Rep. Rahm Emanuel (D-Ill.), Obama’s incoming chief of staff; and U.S. Rep. Jesse Jackson Jr. (D-Ill.), would bolster the governor’s contention that he did nothing wrong when it comes to filling Obama’s vacant U.S. Senate Seat.
Blagojevich Probe Expands to Include Prison Closing - Bloomberg

Biden: Blagojevich 'Incapable' of Governing
- MSNBC
Appearing on "Larry King Live" on CNN Monday night, Vice President-elect Joe Biden referred to Gov. Rod Blagojevich as "a guy who is not capable of governing."

"I know in our system you're innocent until proven guilty, but those tapes that were released by the special prosecutor, by the, excuse me, by the U.S. Attorney, seem incredibly, incredibly incriminating. It's a decision for the people of Illinois to make, and the legislature of Illinois to make, but from where I sit he looks like a guy who is not capable of governing," Biden said during the interview.
Video: You're a mean one, Blagojevich LOL!!!

Can Eddie Genson's fireworks get a fair trial for the hate figure of the hour?
- Conrad Black

Illinois politics: Easier than Dec. 26 shopping - John Kass

Jones III set to succeed father, mum on Blago scandal - Southtown

Gov's lawyer asks panel to subpoena Obama staff - AP

Guv's woes are a big gift for some - Greg Hinz

Troutman to be sentenced next year

Defender:
Former Alderwoman Arenda Troutman, who initially claimed innocence, will be sentenced next year on mail and tax fraud charges.

Troutman, head of the 20th Ward for 17 years until she lost her re-election bid in 2007, was originally scheduled for sentencing Dec. 3. Her new date is Jan. 6, 2009, said Randall Samborn, a spokesman for the U.S. Attorney’s Office.

Indicted in 2007, the 51-year-old Troutman was caught on wiretaps during an FBI sting requesting money from real estate developers in exchange for letters of support for several land and property deals.

She vehemently denied all allegations when the federal corruption charges were levied against her. But in August, she did an aboutface and admitted in federal court, orally and in a 33-page plea agreement, to extortion and income tax evasion.
When the story came down about the Governor I thought exactly about the former Alderman for the 20th. Although it's safe to say that the Governor's schemes was on steroids!

I have been compiling more scandal/impeachment items since Christmas Eve so be ready when they are finally published.

Wednesday, December 24, 2008

Al Capone's House -in the 6th - is up for sale!

Just saw this on Chicago Breaking News

Check out the story of Al Capone's home, and the current owner of it, who is putting it on the market for $450,000 (a great price for this market!). The home has had only 2 owners since Capone's mother lived there in 1952.

We may update this entry with more details, photos, etc. Your comments are appreciated, as well as additional info or pictures!

Levois adds...
Go to this link at the Chicago Historical Society for more info.

Also a story from WGN!

City Water Dept. official target of probe

Crain's:
A high-ranking city of Chicago official with ties to the Daley family’s 11th Ward Regular Democratic Organization is being investigated for allegedly dispatching water crews to work on private sites, including a politically connected Bridgeport church.

The city’s inspector general’s office is trying to find out whether Deputy Commissioner Tommie Talley improperly ordered Chicago Water Management workers to fix or improve sewer and water pipes for private owners who should be paying for such work themselves, sources say.

Mr. Talley hung up on a reporter who called him Tuesday to discuss the investigation. A spokesman for the Water Management Department declined to comment.

Tuesday, December 23, 2008

Where to see Christmas Lights in the 6th ward?

There are some great places to see Christmas lights in the city , such as Sauganash on the Northwest Side (we plan to go Friday night).

But what about here in the 6th? I seem to recall the 8700 block of Calumet having several houses decorate for Christmas. (I have not had the chance to stop by again & check it out)

Any places worth checking out this week?
The Chicagoist had an article last year (on our birthday) about how to find great places to see the lights.

They reference Chicagloand Christmas Lights , which only lists Tuley Park.

My display looks meager...but i hope to stock up on Dec. 26 with better stuff!

Are city snow plows doing their job?

A video report from WBBM-TV.

Would anyone like to share the snow situation on their side streets?

Scandal/impeachment items

Merry Christmas. I hope that I won't continue to do this until impeachment hearing convene again next Monday!

Panel hears Gov. got 435 contributions of $25K, more - Sun-Times

Lisa Madigan denies asking for Senate seat - Tribune

Quinn has Transition Team in Order - CPR

Fundraiser seeks immunity in Blagojevich probe - Tribune

The Illinois Attorney General's Suit To Remove Blagojevich Looks Even Worse In Retrospect - Le·gal In·sur·rec·tion

Blagojevich information withheld from impeachment panel - LA Times
As the transition team of President-elect Barack Obama prepared today to release its investigation into staff contacts with Illinois Gov. Rod Blagojevich, federal prosecutors asked a state panel to limit its examination of whether to impeach the governor, who faces corruption charges.

In a letter this morning, U. S. Atty. Patrick Fitzgerald declined to give the committee of the Illinois Legislature any of the information his office has gathered in preparing charges against Blagojevich, arguing that the release could compromise the federal probe.
U.S. Attorney Won’t Assist Blagojevich Impeachment - Bloomberg
Fitzgerald’s office won’t provide affidavits, wiretap applications, fundraising lists or the names of anonymous witnesses, according to a letter released today by the committee. The prosecutor also asked the panel to avoid current and former members of Blagojevich’s staff, as well as fundraisers such as Antoin Rezko, who was convicted in June for seeking millions of dollars in kickbacks.

“Any inquiry into these topics, as well as the taking of testimony from present and former members of the governor’s staff, could significantly compromise the ongoing criminal investigation,” Fitzgerald said in the letter dated yesterday.
Prosecutor limits Blagojevich impeachment probe - PJ Star
At the same time, Fitzgerald said the committee could look into other issues surrounding the administration without jeopardizing the investigation, including expanding health care in defiance of the General Assembly and whether the administration illegally hired and fired some state workers.

Fitzgerald rejected the committee's request for the identities of people listed in a federal affadavit only by code name. He said he will consider the committee's request to turn over tape recordings made of Blagojevich conversations that, among other things, caught him trying to sell the vacant U.S. Senate seat once held by president-elect Barack Obama.
Rich Miller takes a look at what the US Attorney would provide help with or what he won't provide help with.

FriendsofBlago.com - IL GOP

Ald. Manny Flores on Public Affairs talking about the Blagojevich scandal and possible successors to the President-elect's now vacant Senate seat.

Blago catches a teeny break from Fitzgerald, but will it matter? - Greg Hinz

Former Crain's editor will be Lt. Gov. Quinn spokesman - Crain's

Quinn warns Blagojevich impeachment coming - AP

City's "vital signs" are worsening, officials say

Chi-Town Daily News:
The pulse of the Chicago public service community is weakening at a time when demands on food, energy assistance and emergency housing are increasing.

That's the message from a new report out from the Chicago Community Trust measuring the increase in the demand for human services as a result of the recession.

The report measures six indicators of human impact - food pantry visits, food stamp utilization, foreclosures, calls to the homeless prevention hotline, unemployment and mass layoffs - and all six show a drastic increase from where they were a year ago.

"It means they have to scrap for resources that they didn't think they would have to scrap for," says Jim Lewis, the Trust's senior program officer.

Monday, December 22, 2008

Scandal/impeachment items

The Special Investigation Committee has adjourned until next Monday. You can check at the CapFax for what went on today!

Testimony: Ill. gov built 'aggressive' fundraising machine

Blagojevich Appointees Decline to Testify at Panel (Update2) 

Fix Pick: Blagojevich's Tentacles

Special election may cause funding headaches for clerks

Impeachment panel breaks; no word from prosecutor

Impeachment update: State leases, donor ties

Quinn ready to go if Blagojevich quits

Obama to reveal review on Blagojevich contacts Tuesday

Blagojevich at work in Chicago

The Chicago Democrat was in his 16th-floor office on Monday at a downtown state office building.

Blagojevich has kept a consistent work schedule since his arrest Dec. 9 on federal corruption charges.

The governor has given no hint that he plans to forfeit his job any time soon. In his first public comments last week, Blagojevich said he wouldn't resign and would fight the charges against him.

Impeachment decision may be soon

The committee, established last week, met for about three hours Monday, taking testimony on pay-to-play politics and the difficulty federal investigators have in getting permission to wire tap.

But the panel recessed for a week without getting a response from U.S. Attorney Patrick Fitzgerald about whether it can delve into the governor's alleged criminal activity without jeopardizing the ongoing federal investigation.

Rep. John Fritchey, D-Chicago, doesn't expect the committee to get the prosecutor's permission, which could bring a quick end to the legislators' work.

"It's safe to say that we're in the homestretch right now," Fritchey said. "Barring an unexpected response from the U.S. attorney, I think that we are looking at a couple of days of hearings left, tops."
I'm thinking that if impeachment is largely political that looking at information from the US Attorney might not be critical although to be sure it might go to the heart of the issues involving Gov. Blagojevich and whether or not he can be trusted.

Jackson lays out his timeline

I stole this title from this post over at the CapFax which discusses the news regarding Congressman Jesse Jackson Jr. cooperating with federal authorities. Since the Blogojevich scandal broke there has been nothing but speculation which goes between did he attempt to buy a US Senate seat to did he essentially become a snitch.

One comment I would like to offer is that we haven't had an news about Rep. Jackson in a few days. Probably since it was revealed that he might have been somehow involved in an investigation against the governor and also the expectation that he'll meet with federal authorities with regards to this Blagojevich scandal. If the post at the CapFax is any indication perhaps there will continue to be stories about JJJ.

BTW, I haven't decided whether or not I'll do a compilation of impeachment or scandal items if I do, I may start later this afternoon.

City can't afford 50 aldermen any longer

Sun-Times:
There have been a lot of discussions about cuts -- less snow removal, longer waits for things like tree cuttings -- and fee increases, such as those parking meters increases that are going to kill neighborhood businesses. The people of Chicago will be paying for a lot more and getting less. Such a deal.

But in all these talks, not once has it been suggested we lop off something completely unnecessary -- so many aldermen.

We don't need 50 aldermen. Some aldermen, but not 50. Maybe before 311, you needed an alderman to help you get city services. But not anymore. So really, 50 is a luxury Chicago can ill afford.

Because it's not just those 50 salaries of $110,556 each that we are stuck paying. That's 50 staffs, neighborhood offices and aldermanic "expense" accounts that pay for who knows what.

I like several of our city's aldermen and the work they do. But there are more than a few we never hear from, who do little for their paychecks. We need to lop off the deadwood.
I thought exactly about the post here that has generated so far 18 comments with regards to Hugh's analysis of Aldermanic salaries. Perhaps this won't generate as much discussion, indeed there may not be much support for this either. Just thought this would be interesting.

Via CapFax morning shorts!

Updated: Police action on 97th and Michigan

You see this is why I love the EveryBlock Chicago feed for the 6th Ward. I did a post on this back on the 11th of December. I suppose this was why the police was there...
Location 9700 block S. Michigan Ave
Crime date December 11, 2008
Case number HP728352
Crime time 1:31 p.m.
Primary type Burglary
Secondary type Burglary: Forcible entry
Place Residence
Beat 0511
Domestic No
Go to Everyblock, pick a ward, zipcode, street, block or whatever and see what might be there in your neck of the woods. You never know what you'll find! If you prefer to get this info via email that can be done too. Of course I choose to use a feed reader to get these updates as they come.

Warming Centers

How about that weather. I originally posted this on Sunday and I bumped this up so that it will be posted Monday morning. The weather wasn't as cold back in December when it was in the news that an elderly man died due to cold exposure. If you don't have any way to stay warm at home provided is a link to warming centers around the city. Take advantage!

Check out this page for places to go especially if you don't have any heat for this cold weather currently. These places are also available for the summer if you don't have any air conditioning. If you can't get to these places on your own dial 311 on your phone.

Sunday, December 21, 2008

What schools could bring in more residents?

I've been planning a post like this for a while. I even have a draft which this post will effectively supplant because I've been hinting at a post like this since the one year anniversary. Also a nice comment was left in the aldermanic salary survey post and I want to quote a piece of that comments...
And a HUGE need in our area is better schooling and funding for educational improvements and not just cosmetic face lifts that look nice off the Ryan (i.e., Deneen Elementary).
Anyway I would like to see any responses that you might have to the rest of this post. I'm sure many of you look forward to a return to community issues since the scandal broke.

There was this post last week over at YoChicago describing how real estate agents make sure they drop the name of a public school, James G. Blaine Magnet School, when they make a potential sale in that part of town. Blaine School is said to be one of the city's acclaimed primary schools although enrollment is from pre-Kindergarten thru 8th Grades. It is also located on the city's north side.

Well that being said, what other schools in the 6th ward have a good reputation that could bring in new residents?

JP Paulus adds:
My wife & i did some research, so i am adding some of that text.

There are two schools in particular that are extrardinary, even compared to many North Side schools, such as Walt Disney Magnet School in Uptown.

They are Ted Lenart Magnet School at 8101 S LaSalle St, and McDade Classical School at 8801 S Indiana Ave.

The McDade student population was 98.5% black last year, but had 97% meeting Academic Yearly Progress (a No Child Left Behind standard). That certainly blows away any racial steroetypes.

Lenart listed the student population as 100% black as well (though other reports on the CPS listed the school as more diverse: 62% black, 23% white, 6% Asian ). Their measure was 100% meeting standards.

Blaine "only" had a 94% overall "success" rate. They were 41% white, 31% Hispanic, and 10% black.

Disney was only 62% meeting AYP. It was 40% black, 20% Hispanic, and 18% white.

You can find the query page at the CPS website. Just type in part of the school name, and it should come up.
I look forward to other responses!

Should there be a church linkroll?

If there should can anyone help compile a series of links of neighborhood church websites for this blog. Here are a couple I have already Googled.

Carter Temple
Wesley United Methodist Church
St. Mark United Methodist Church

Oh and you can also offer links to community organizations or neighborhood businesses.

If you don't mind leave a comment in this post or send a quick e-mail.

Fifty/Fifty

A Chicago Public Radio program about the stories at Robeson High School. This school is one of two contained in Chicago's Sixth Ward. The clips aren't entirely complete however you should listen to this clip about a hardworking 14 year-old young lady, Sarah, and her struggles in rising about the culture of underacheiving amongst her peers. Fity/Fifty refers to the odds of a Robeson student or indeed a CPS student graduating from high school.

Oh and it should be noted although I'm very much behind the curve that CPS CEO Arne Duncan has been appointed the new Secretary of the federal Dept. of Education.

Saturday, December 20, 2008

Scandal/impeachment items

Updated throughout the weekend!

WBBM-TV
Governor's Body Language Tells Story: Expert

Video: Has Blagojevich story boosted consumer spending?
Video: Chicago citizens weighs the Governor's words
Video: Mike Flannery on the Governor's statement

Marathon Pundit
Ill. GOP: Blago statement unacceptable
Blago lawyer stayed in governor's mansion in Springfield

WLS-TV: Ill. politicians urge Blagojevich to resign

Russ Stewart: No "rosy scenario" in Blagojevich situation

Bill Barr: Blagojevich - I Will Fight, I Will Fight, I Will Fight Until My Last Breath

Greg Hinz: Blago nightmare seems destined to run long after Christmas

Sun-Times: Daley declines to call for Blagojevich's resignation

ArchPundit: End it now!

The Eleventh Hour: He Has Spoken

Times Online: Seat for sale scandal causes wider worries over American corruption

The Fix:
Blagojevich: Animated
Blagojevich's Defiance Complicates Democratic Strategy

2nd City Cop: Sneedling is a Gold Nugget

Chicago police boss' 1st year saw major rise in violent crime

Tribune:
Chicago is on track to end the year with a 16 to 17 percent increase in homicides and an overall increase in violent crime of about 3 percent. It's also in a tight race with New York City for the most homicides in the country. By Dec. 14, New York had 492 homicides, the same as Chicago's tally on Friday.

Still, Weis said Chicago's murder total for 2008 will be among the lowest in decades—the fifth lowest since 1965. He called the number 500 an "arbitrary bar" to which the department did not hold itself accountable.

"We didn't fit it as a goal when we ended this year," Weis said. "The goal is zero homicides."

Weis points to the usual suspects in rising crime: gangs, guns and drugs. Deputy Supt. Steve Peterson, the head of investigative services, said the dismantling of larger gangs may have contributed to more violence.

"Perhaps some of the violence has spiked because we've been successful at bringing down some of the leadership of the gangs, and now we've created infighting," he said.

The 6th Ward Scene

I saw this month's edition yesterday where Ald. Lyle had a representative of Renaisannce Row. I joined the show almost 10 minutes after one and I immediately picked up that her and her guest were discussing development on 75th Street. It sounds all great that there is going to be some commercial development in the way of retail, restaurants, or what have you. In fact it's great that there is some redevelopment.

The Alderman says that parking is an issue, but certainly not traffic so perhaps 75th has some advantages compared to either 71st Street or 79th. Well 71st may not have the traffic of 75th or 79th streets.

Anyway the end of the program provided a website @ renaissancerow.com. For which I may offer a critique.

The critique is to say that I'm elated that there is a website, but I'm somewhat dissapointed. If the point of this website is to advertise another place for people to shop and eat well I would like to see more from the presentation. I'm big on minimalism, but I think there should be some elements of good design and perhaps pictures of scenes on 75th Street. Just a few ideas for them.

That is assuming that they will read this blog. Play it up a lil Renaissance Row!

Friday, December 19, 2008

Talking tough, acting soft

Ben Joravsky at Clout City talks about the flap over minority contracts and Michael Reese Hospital in connection with the 2016 summer olympic bid. Via Mechanics!

Scandal/impeachment items

If you want to see any footage from the impeachment hearings then go to this link at CLTV and look for the tag Blagojevich! As usual post updated with links throughout the day!

IL Channel Blog: Underscoring He's Still Governor, Blagojevich Issues 22 Pardons

Rich Miller notes:
Like I said earlier, the governor’s arrest has finally forced him to do the job he was elected to six years ago.
So where has our studious Governor been since 2003. When did he finally find time to sign bills into law, sign contracts or finally approve pardons? It's unfortunate that all it took was an arrest by the Federal gov't and attempts at removing him from office.

AP: Blagojevich: 'I will be vindicated'

3PM: I saw Blagojevich's statement as well as the statement of his attorneys who include Sam Adam Jr. Also assorted officials spoke, especially two Republican legislators and Lt. Gov. Pat Quinn. I'm currently watching all of this on CLTV.

The Governor is expected to make a statement at 2PM. WBBM-TV will cover this story at the Thompson Center live. If you won't be in front of a TV at that time you can look for a link at the CapFax blog and watch it on your PC. This is old news of course it's been in the news all morning, but you got the update here.

Progress Illinois: Giannoulias: IL One Of Two States Under "Negative Credit Watch"

Hot Air: Blago discussed laundering campaign funds

AP: Highlights of Thursday's House impeachment hearing

Newsalert: FBI informed of Blagojevich's Chicago Mob links:Ex-Senior FBI Agent Confirms Bookmaking Story

Crain's: Illinois tollway to review $1.8B construction program
The chairman of the Illinois State Toll Highway Authority board today directed his agency’s inspector general to review the process by which the $1.8-billion congestion-relief program came to fruition to ensure it was not tainted.

The program — which calls for the construction of interchanges and carpool lanes — was mentioned in the criminal complaint against Gov. Rod Blagojevich, who allegedly was trying to use it to motivate an unnamed highway contractor to make $500,000 in campaign contributions.
Marathon Pundit: Your Thursday night Blago scandals reader This is where I have often got a lot of the items for these scandal/impeachement links blogs.

Sun-Times: Emanuel talked directly to gov: source

Chicago Argus: “I” word talk is getting out of hand

Washington Post: About That Special Election

Tribune: Why is Obama dodging?

Capitol Fax:

About those wiretaps…
“I can’t recall,” attorney-client privilege frustrate impeachment committee
Impeachment odds and ends - and oddities

Thursday, December 18, 2008

Federal Judge upholds Chicago's handgun ban

Sun-Times:
A federal judge today upheld Chicago’s 1982 handgun ban as Mayor Daley disclosed plans to strengthen it by following Washington D.C.’s lead.

In a 5-to-4 decision in June, the Supreme Court overturned the D.C. handgun ban on grounds that the Second Amendment establishes the right to own a handgun for personal self-defense.

Hours later, the National Rifle Association and the Illinois State Rifle Association filed lawsuits seeking to overturn handgun bans in Chicago, Morton Grove, Evanston and Oak Park. Wilmette and Morton Grove subsequently repealed their handgun bans. Chicago held fast.

Today, U.S. District Judge Milton Shadur rewarded the city for hanging tough, rejecting a pair of lawsuits challenging Chicago’s handgun freeze.

The Daley administration was pleased, but “not surprised” by the decision. City attorneys are well aware that the fight goes on.
Via Newsalert!

Illinois job cuts highest since ’01

Crain's:
Illinois companies cut their payrolls in November by the greatest number of jobs in about seven years, while unemployment stayed at a 15-year high, government figures show.

Employers in the state cut 23,000 jobs last month, the most since October 2001, according to figures from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics and Illinois Department of Employment Security. Illinois’ unemployment rate held at 7.3% last month, the highest since November 1993 and up from 5.3% the same month a year ago.

Scandal/impeachment items

Post updated with links throughout the day!

Tribune: Video - Blagojevich nude painting WHY???

Tribune: Impeachment panel adjourns until Monday

WBBM-TV: Video - Lisa Madigan, attorney spar over Blagojevich

First Read: Scandal in Illinois: Love in his heart

Progress Illinois: Genson: Blagojevich Won't Appoint Next Senator (UPDATED)

WBBM-TV: Video - Truth In Politics: Gov Wins Some, Loses Some

Current items from the CapFax:

The special election kerfluffle
More bad news and fallout

Herald & Review: Fitzgerald seeks assurances impeachment won't impede federal investigation

Lynn Sweet: Until Blagojevich mess, Obama COS Emanuel mulling installing placeholder in his House seat so he could reclaim it later

Mountain of Evidence: Blago Yesterday, Stroger Today.

Sneed: Gov in fetal position?
Sneed hears Gov. Blagojevich displayed bizarre/unusual behavior during his arrest by the feds last week.

• • To wit: The governor, a relentless runner, reportedly surprised feds when, upon entering his home, he began jogging in place -- and then lying down in the fetal position. He reportedly repeated the frenetic exercise several times.

• • The upshot: The feds reportedly let him have at it and then said, "Let's go."
People are already playing amateur psychologist. This blurb, even if it is gossip, might ask more questions about the Governor's metal fitness. WOW!

Wednesday, December 17, 2008

Chicago’s lone Wal-Mart has pumped $10M into city coffers, report says

Food for thought as the city continues to dance around whether or not they should allow a second Wal-Mart to be built. Especially on the land on Holland Dr. and 83rd Street. Crain's:
Proponents who want to see more Wal-Marts in Chicago point to a report that says the chain’s first, and so far only, city store has generated $10.3 million in sales tax revenue in its first two years.

The report card, released Wednesday, showed that $5.3 million came in the second year, and half of that amount benefited the city, Regional Transportation Authority and Cook County.

“Wal-Mart has proven to be an incredible economic engine for the West Side of Chicago,” Alderman Emma Mitts (37th) said about the store, which opened in her ward in the Austin neighborhood in 2006. Her office compiled the report.

The report revives an ongoing battle over whether the Bentonville, Ark.-based retail giant should be allowed to open more stores in the city. So far, that idea has been met with much resistance from unions and some aldermen. The retailer has faced a parade of setbacks since City Council allies in 2006 narrowly defeated a proposed measure, known as the “big-box” minimum wage law, that would have required Wal-Mart and other retailers to pay employees more than smaller shops.
Don't think Howard Brookins of the 21st hasn't given up on a Wal-Mart in his ward yet...
Alderman Howard Brookins (21st) on Wednesday said he plans to introduce a measure next year that would revive the push for a store in Chatham.

“I’m more committed to this project than ever,” said Mr. Brookins, who has criticized Mayor Richard M. Daley for bowing to union pressure.

He added that the city needs the store more than ever, as Wal-Mart is one of the few retailers generating sales amid the economic slowdown. “We really have to rethink our position on Wal-Mart,” he said. With unemployment on the rise, “jobs are at a premium. This would be a significant economic stimulus for the community.”

Chi-Lites, Delfonics and Intruders bring their old school hits to the newly renovated Regal Theater

Just to let you know what goes on in our part of town courtesy of the Defender:
Ronald and Regina Evans, new owners of the Regal Theater, have decided to return to the recently renovated auditorium’s entertainment roots, presenting jazz, comedy, classical music and soul acts. Marshall Thompson & The Chi-Lites, The Delfonics and Intruders will kick off that return on December 26.

Once upon a time, especially during the ‘60s, ‘70s and the ‘80s, these entertainers and others thrilled audiences at the Regal’s original home on 47th Street and South Parkway (now King Dr.). That building was demolished and the theater eventually reopened at its current location, 1645 E. 79th St.

Now the Evanses have revived the cultural and entertainment palace, restoring it once more to the beauty of Moorish and Byzantine architectural splendor, and are using the theater as a multi-purpose cultural center.

Aldermen give mixed reviews on snow removal

Tribune:
"There are cars getting stuck all over the place, and we need to do more," Ald. Billy Ocasio (26th) said. "I don't think that with all of the taxes we raised, and with the new budget that we passed -- you know, we should have accounted for this. ... In our neighborhoods, those neighborhoods that are poor, we're angry. We're not seeing [increased snowplowing]. Last night, I drove around for two hours looking for a salt truck."

Ocasio, who voted against the budget and has become an increasingly frequent critic of the Daley administration, said city officials gave him the runaround when he went to them with complaints. Ocasio noted that Daley recently split snow-removal responsibilities between Streets and Sanitation and Department of Transportation officials.

"Who's running the show here?" Ocasio said, citing a "lack of leadership."

But several other aldermen said the city did a much better job than it had during the last snowstorm a couple of weeks ago.

"The snow removal was 100 percent better than it was the last time," Ald. Howard Brookins (21st) said. "When I went out this morning, it was markedly better than it was on the past two snowstorms. I commend the [Streets and Sanitation] commissioner and the mayor. I guess they got the message that the residents were really upset with the slow response on the last two snow dates."

Scandal/impeachment items

Updated throughout the day!

Tribune: Dan Walker - A disgrace to the state Published on the 11th and I missed this one, but Ridge 99 got wind of this one first. Dan Walker was a Democratic Governor of IL from 1973 to 1977.

Althouse, who herself is a law professor, seems to be gleeful about Lisa Madigan's failed attempt to remove the Governor from office.

Tribune: Video - Gov. Blagojevich goes jogging

AP: Blagojevich says he'll address Illinoisans 'soon' - I saw some of this on Channel 2 today very interesting session. I look forward to seeing what he has to say for himself.

AP: State should pay for Blagojevich's impeachment defense: Genson

Greg Hinz: The 12 Days of Fitzmas

At 1:51PM the CapFax reports that the state Supreme Court has rejected without comment Attorney General Madigan's request to either remove the Governor from office or strip him of his powers.

AP: Supreme Court refuses to hear Madigan's challenge to Blagojevich

Also at 2:15PM the Special Investigative Committee has adjourned until 10 AM tomorrow hat-tip CapFax

If you want to follow the impeachment committee you can either go the WGN-TV or directly to this page at the General Assembly website.

I had to see who was on the impeachment committee which is actually named Special Investigative Committee. Check out this link, and click on the tab members. One of the members of this committee is one of the state representatives for the 6th, Constance Howard.

Washington Post: Rep. Jackson Said to Have Reported Blagojevich Request
Rep. Jesse L. Jackson Jr. (D-Ill.) told federal investigators that Gov. Rod Blagojevich asked for a $25,000 campaign contribution during Blagojevich's 2002 run for governor and may have exacted retribution when the money did not arrive, a political source close to Jackson said Tuesday.

After Blagojevich (D) won, he considered and rejected Jackson's wife, Sandi, for the job of state lottery director, the source said.

Later, the governor saw Rep. Jackson at an event in Washington and, according to the source, told him he bet Jackson regretted not paying up.
Michael J. Madigan, Speaker of the IL House of Reps on MSNBC via CapFax!



AP: Family pushes their dog as next Illinois governor LOL!

Crain's: Major local cement supplier talking with Feds in Blago case
The parent company of a major cement supplier in the Chicago area is cooperating with federal authorities investigating alleged corruption under Gov. Rod Blagojevich.

Votorantim Cement North America, which purchased the cement portion of Bridgeview’s Prairie Material in January, is “cooperating fully with the investigation and will continue to do so,” said Steve Gallagher, vice-president of human resources for Toronto-based Votorantim.

Nobody at the company has been accused of anything illegal or “improper,” Mr. Gallagher said.
Clout Street: Blagojevich scandal biggest non-election, non-economy story of the year

CPR: Is Rezko Still Relevant to Prosecutors?

From sj-r.com...

State Capitol Q&A: Blagojevich's potential impeachment
Can Blagojevich beat impeachment?

Chicago Argus: Blagojevich Dems? Don’t make me laugh

Sun-Times: Daley turns up heat on Blagojevich to 'do the right thing'

Daily Herald: Ex-Supreme Court justice doesn't believe court can remove governor
Former Illinois Supreme Court Justice Louis Rathje believes Attorney General Lisa Madigan's request for the state's highest court to remove Gov. Rod Blagojevich from office is beyond the court's powers.

"Lisa Madigan is doing a stretch and is pushing this as far as she can go to see what she can do," Rathje said Monday in a telephone interview. "Hopefully, he'll just resign."
WBBM-TV: State Offices Feel Strain Of Gov's Legal Problems
The governor worked Tuesday at his Thompson Center Office, but for the first time, his spokesperson, Lucio Guerrero, acknowledged the stress on his staff.

"It's difficult to work right now," Guerrero said. Obviously, the events that happened in the last week were a shock to all of us here.

"What you have here is really unprecedented and uncharted," said Dennis Culloton, who handled media relations for Gov. George Ryan when Ryan faced lengthy federal investigations.

But, unlike Blagojevich, Ryan wasn't charged until leaving office. Culloton says the facade of normalcy is just that.

"There is great paralysis because we've already seen the chief of staff is gone, the other senior staff of the governor's office are probably very anxious about even talking to each other," Culloton said. "So that's a horrible situation, a horrible atmosphere..."
The Bench: Idiot voters of IL deserves Blagojevich

Newsalert: FBI Informant Told Feds of Blagojevich's Gambling Operation:Blago Accused of Paying Street Tax to Chicago Mob Years Ago

Hot Air: Holder holding out on Blagojevich connections

Carol Marin: Governor's Lawyer Likely to Infuriate Legislators - Currently listening to impeachment hearings at 1:55PM and I think I'm listening to this in action. A few combative moments at this time.

ChicagoGOP: Cartoons - Illinois' moment of embarrassment

Defender: Candidates unsure about U.S. senate seat

The Caucus: Blagojevich Questions Continue to Overshadow Transition

The Bench: Jesse Jackson, Jr.: Snitch

WLS-TV: Obama: Answers coming soon on Illinois case

Crain's: Illinois tollway chief steps down
Less than a month after taking over as the top administrator at the Illinois State Toll Highway Authority, Executive Director Jeff Dailey has submitted his resignation.

A spokeswoman for the authority says Mr. Dailey indicated “a desire to explore other engineering and transportation planning opportunities.”

But someone familiar with the situation says the scandal involving Gov. Rod Blagojevich was a factor in Mr. Dailey’s decision, as was a controversy involving the previous executive director.