January 7, 2009 by StreetWise

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J A N U A R Y 7- J A N U A R Y 13, 2009

YOUR CITY FROM THE STREETS

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www.streetwise.org J A N U A R Y 7-J A N U A R Y 13, 2009

another voice StreetWise intern Kenshata Harris marks the 45-year

anniversary of the Surgeon General’s report on tobacco by discussing where and when people should smoke. page

ginny & the chef Ginny & the Chef look at the latest confectionary trend: gourmet cupcakes. They also show how to make “magical” healthy cupcakes using bananas as a base.

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events calendar The New Shanghai Circus, the Chicago Sketch Comedy Festival, the Shakespeare Project, Urban Shopping Guide and more.

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Busting & smashing stereotypes StreetWise looks at Director of Distribution Greg Pritchett’s contributions (above with daughter, Genesis and girlfriend, Sarah) to the organization at the start of his 10-year anniversary.

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Street Papers page 5 This Week in Chicago page 6 Cover Story page 12-13 International Network of

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Richard Pegue page 7 Ginny & The Chef page 8 Health & Fitness page 9 Events page 10

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J A N U A R Y 7-J A N U A R Y 13, 2009

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The Good Life with Temple Hemphill

The Savage Truth:

Terry Savage’s Financial Tips to Rebound in 2009

And, to those barely surviving, Savage says don’t be too proud to contact the City and local charities and churches to ask for aid. Surely, when you get through these tough times and rebound, there will be a chance to give back – simply by offering your time and presence. Hopefully, Savage’s tips can lead StreetWise readers to redefine the good life in 2009.

Temple Hemphill: Any suggestions about staying positive and mentally healthy during the current recession? Terry Savage: This recession is going to require more than a positive mental attitude. (Though, that would help.) It’s going to require those who are fortunate enough to have jobs and secure homes to reach out to others who are hurting.

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By Temple Hemphill StreetWise contributor

erry Savage, a syndicated Chica go SunTimes financial columnist and nationally respected financial expert and author, shared thoughts about the Financial Crisis in a December 2008 StreetWise article. And, in December, economists officially announced the U.S. had been in a recession for a full year. Well, the U.S. faced major recessions before, including in the early 1980s and the late 1920s. The country, says Savage, survived and rebounded stronger both times. Savage once again talks to StreetWise and lends general advice both to the gainfully employed and to people struggling to make ends meet. To employed people worried about their stock market investments and retirement plans, Savage suggests paying down credit card debt and continued contributing to retirement plans – even if the stock market looks scary.

TH: Yes, a lot of people are talking about the “give back.” And, they’re talking about fear. Should StreetWise readers who are investing be fearful? TS: There has never been a 20-year period when you would have lost money in a diversified stock market portfolio. If you have 20 years until retirement and/or plan to live 20 years in retirement, you need some component of stock market investment in your retirement plan…even now when it’s scary. Otherwise, you’ll look back and ask,“Why didn’t I buy?”

TH: Do you believe spending habits are formed during childhood? TS: [Without Pausing] Absolutely. And it’s not only what you tell your children, it’s also what they see you doing. Children don’t think money grows on trees anymore. They know for sure it comes out of ATM machines….

TH: So, this is a teaching moment for children in terms of the financial crisis…and

teaching about the “giveback.” TS: Children see how worried you are even though you don’t think they’re listening to your dinner table conversation. From about age 4 on, you can bring them into the conversation without making them fearful.You can teach them by saying,“We’re going to have to be a little careful about how much money we spend.”

TH: What does living the good life mean to you? TS: It’s pretty easy to say the good life is about good health, friends and family if you have at least enough money to not worry about the roof over your head, food on the table or paying your electric bill. If you don’t have those basics, I don’t think you can say you’re having a good life. If anything, you’re having a worried life. And it’s not helpful to say you’re better off than poor people in a Third World country, because we don’t live in a Third World country. So, for me the good life starts with being gainfully employed…At work you still make a contribution, and you’re earning enough money to cover at least the basic necessities.

TH: Any last thoughts you’d like to share with StreetWise readers? TS: I’m a student of history, and I have some personal perspective. Every time America has gone through a severe recession, we have come out on the other side stronger and growing and creating opportunities. That doesn’t make it any easier to get through a recession...if you are the one impacted by loss of a job or income. But, it does give you hope for the future. TH: Sounds good. Terry Savage writes a syndicated personal finance column for the Chicago Sun-Times and for TheStreet .com. Read more at www.TerrySavage.com

Contributing Writers John Godoy is a Chicago-based wellness consultant and personal trainer with a leading prevention-based integrative health and wellness provider. Julie Cameron has over 16 years experience in the fashion and retail industry. She is also president of Urban Shop Guide, a Web site that has been featured in publications such as Daily Candy, Elle UK and American Airlines’ In Flight Magazine. Urban Shop Guide explores the city’s best neighborhood shopping secrets with tours for both residents and visitors. She is a member of The Fashion Group International, the Chicago Convention and Tourism

Bureau and she participates in local neighborhood merchant associations. Ginny & The Chef: Originally a professional chef, Chef J now writes a syndicated weekly newspaper column on food and fitness in Chicago. J. is the president of the Chicago Research Chefs LLC and president emeritus of the Chicago Nutrition Association. Ginny has written nutrition and fitness articles for several local and national publications such as Chicago Tribune and On-Health magazine. Ginny has a bachelor’s degree in nutrition science and dietetics and a master’s degree in nutrition W W W. S T R E E T W I S E . O R G

communications & marketing. Richard Pegue has lived the music he writes about. Pegue has been music director at WVON and program director and fill-in disc jockey at WGCI. He is now heard Saturday nights on WKKC, 89.3 FM. Temple Hemphill is a Chicago-based journalist, author, media professor and children’s advocate. If you know of a Chicagoan significantly impacting the community, please send spotlight suggestions to templehemphill@alumni.indiana.edu; write “The Good Life” in the subject field.

J A N U A R Y 7-J A N U A R Y 13, 2009

Another Voice

Should smoking be allowed anywhere? By Kenshata Harris

problem with smoking. It is socially accepted to complain about Editor’s Note: Forty-five yea rs smoking if someone is blowing a go, on Ja n. 11, 1964, the Surgeon smoke directly on a person, but that Genera l first sa id tha t smoking is doesn’t always happen.” On the other hand, smoker and ha za rdous to hea lth. Columbia College student a nd StreetWise employee Megan Schenk of Spin intern Kensha ta Ha rris ta kes a nightclub in Chicago believes that look a t smokers’ rights in Chica go. smoking should not be allowed Columbia College student Perry everywhere. “I think it is a hurtful habit and it Lomax, 19, stands right in front of the 623 S. Wabash building. He is shortens life,” says Schenk. “I am all dressed in blue jeans, black hoodie, for smoking not being allowed in white T-shirt, and black shoes. restaurants and bars because it is Lomax is text messaging on his good for smokers to help regulate Sidekick in one hand and holding a their smoking and it protects nonNewport cigarette in the other. A smokers. I don’t think it should be life without cigarettes would allowed on sidewalks either, because it takes up a lot of space. increase his stress level. “I need cigarettes to deal with People are not walking 15 feet from the stress in my life,” says Lomax, a the building to smoke, but are graphic design major. “I smoke smoking right in front of them.” The Chicago City Council passed eight to 10 cigarettes a day because it calms me down and I don’t know a strict smoking ban in December 2005. The ordinance banned smokwhen I will give them up.” There has been a strong debate ing in all indoor public places in the for many years between smokers city such as restaurants, malls, bars and anti-smokers. Smoking is linked and all other areas. The smoking to all types of cancer, heart disease, ban was enacted on Jan. 16, 2006, strokes, emphysema and chronic but restaurants and taverns that had separate bars were bronchitis. Second-hand given until July 1, 2008 smoke also causes canto comply. They also cer in non-smokers. But had to prove they had smokers insist they installed air filtration have a right to smoke. systems to make the air Diana Silvius, owner of the Up Down Cigar Working eight free of carcinogens so secondhand smoke Store in Chicago, hours in a would be equivalent to believes in the individsmoky bar or the air outside. ual right to smoke. On the other hand, Silvius is an occasional restaurant is smoker Perry Lomax cigar smoker. She smokes in the store and the equivalent has a neutral view about customers are allowed of smoking 16 where smoking should be allowed -- or not. to try out different cigarettes, “In places like bars types of cigars. Smoking has been according to and music venues smoking should be allowed allowed in the store the American because drinking is since 1962. involved,” says Lomax. “The constitution Cancer “Restaurants should not guarantees our freedom Society. allow smoking because of choice and by limitpeople don’t want othing the freedoms, peoers blowing smoke in ple will be hurt,” Silvius their face while eating.” says. She also believes Ina Pinkney, chef that there are more owner of Ina’s restauimportant issues around rant in Chicago, hasn’t allowed the world than banning smoking. “Instead of chasing smokers smoking since 1991. Pinkney took around, we should be finding ways her views to the City Council. “I started a group of 125 to help with the economy,” says Silvius. “We go to war and kill peo- restaurants in order to make the ple and that’s okay, but there is a smoking ban law apply everywhere

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StreetWise intern

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J A N U A R Y 7-J A N U A R Y 13, 2009

in Chicago,” says Pinkney. “I told all of the restaurants to come with me down to City Council and say smoking should be banned in all restaurants and other public places.” Pinkney banned smoking in restaurants because of the secondhand smoke near workers and customers. “It is very unpleasant for people when they are eating,” says Pinkney. “It is extremely unhealthy for the workers, because they are subjected to second-hand smoke both day and night.” Working eight hours in a smoky bar or restaurant is the equivalent of smoking 16 cigarettes, according to the American Cancer Society. The society estimates second-hand smoke contributes to the deaths of 2,900 Illinoisans a year -- about eight a day. According to Centers of Disease Control and Prevention, there is no risk-free level of second-hand smoke exposure. Even brief exposure can be dangerous. Opponents say that the government should have no control over smoking. “I think that smokers have the right to smoke,” says Ray Tucker, board of directors of Burley Tobacco Growers Cooperative Association in Lexington, Ky. “It should be left up to restaurant, bar, and other public places’ owners to allow smoking because it is a violation of people’s rights,” says Tucker. “I think it’s unfair

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because the government is getting involved in a private sector. Just look at the economy, I feel that we should not be using taxpayer money to bail out private industry.” On the other hand, Lashone Brown, Chicago-State University student, has experienced a death of a loved due to smoking. In January 2004, Brown’s father died of emphysema and heart-related illness at his home. Since the death of her father, Brown has opposed smoking everywhere. “Smoking should not be allowed anywhere because it is hazardous to everyone’s health.” says Brown. “It should not be allowed in all public places and even homes. I strongly oppose smoking in the homes because the smell can get into clothes, curtains, furniture, bed sheets. I just hate the smell of smoke.” Brown also says smoking can affect personal relationships. “I would not date a smoker,” says Brown.“I hate smelling tar on men’s breath and smelling smoke on their clothes. Most of all, second-hand smoke increases my chances of developing heart disease, chronic bronchitis, and lung cancer. I prefer to live in a smoke-free environment.” Locally at least, the law has come down on the side of non-smokers. Regarding compatibility with smokers’ rights, there is no clear solution.

This Week in Chicago: 25 Years Ago By Suzanne Hanney & Sylveser Quast, vendor #6908 Editor-in-Chief & Vendor volunteer

he Chicago Housing Authority (CHA) faced a January 13 deadline to secure 390 units of scattered site housing or have the program placed in receivership, but CHA was confident of making its goal, although it had only 51 units, according to the Jan. 7, 1984 Chica go Defender. Among the new units, 219 had to be in previously all-white neighborhoods. In 1979, the CHA had been ordered to build or rehab 1,092 units. In July 1983, U.S. District Judge Marvin E. Aspen had said the authority was “dragging its feet;” he set the January 13 deadline for 390 units. “We are working to close deals on acquisitions that are in various stages,” CHA spokesperson Tina Vicini told the Defender. “You can’t just go and buy the site. There are quite a few steps that you have to go through.” The building had to be inspected and evaluated to be sure it fell within allowable census tracts, Vicini continued. Then the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development would appraise it, followed by Board of Commissioners approval of the sale.“If an owner signs an option, the building must be further evaluated to determine whether it is structurally sound and if the asking price is what we can spend.” Supposing an agreeable price for the building and no problems with the title, the closing could take three to six weeks. Vicini also attributed the delay to the firing of the CHA’s newly established housing division by Acting CHA Chair Renault Robinson. Robinson

had said the firings were due to “a lack of progress.” Two months later, CHA had retained a firm to negotiate with real estate brokers; its own legal staff handled the closings. The Defender also faulted former Mayor Jane Byrne for the delay. “During her administration, in 1982, she placed a freeze on the acquisition of scattered site housing (a move that made her a heroine in the eyes of neighborhoods opposed to such housing), saying it was silly for the CHA to acquire more sites when it couldn’t manage the ones it already had.” Scattered site housing received more emphasis after the 1969 Gautreaux decision in federal court. A group of CHA tenants had sued the authority on the grounds it was deliberately segregating African-Americans in low-income areas. As a result, the judge prevented CHA from building family housing in black neighborhoods and ordered scattered site housing built elsewhere in the city. “Thereafter the authority built no more than a handful of scattered-site dwellings,” according to the Encyclopedia of Chica go online.“Following the Gautreaux decision, almost all of the housing built by CHA was for elderly tenants, housing that could be built in white sections of the city. CHA erected its first project for the elderly in 1959, and between 1961 and 1976 the CHA built 46 developments, totaling 9,607 units.” In June 2000, the Chica go Reporter published a story that said “the scattered site era was coming to an end.” Rather than move public housing residents into other neighborhoods, CHA was transforming its high-rises into mixed-income

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MAGAZINE.UCHICAGO.EDU

Chicago's high-rise public housing was constructed on a foundation of prejudice. It took the landmark Gautreaux v. the Chicago Housing Authority, a case hard fought by U of C alumni, to frame some new solutions-from the ground up.

communities and giving Section 8 vouchers for rental subsidies in the private market. Later that year, CHA would complete the last 21 of 3,000 scattered site units required by Gautreaux. Given the restrictions of the decision, “There is not land available, nor money available, to be building scattered sites,” CHA Chair Sharon Gist Gilliam said. The CHA’s $1.5 billion Plan for Transformation, approved in 2000, allotted just $77 million toward rehabbing scattered site units. Only 2,400 units would remain, Gilliam said. Alexander Polikoff, the attorney who brought the Gautreaux case, told the Reporter the federal decision resulted in fewer units than it could have because CHA didn’t start complying until 1974 and it delayed until Habitat took over in 1987. Land was cheaper and more available, and there was more federal funding before 1987, Polikoff said.

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The Best Music of Your Life WE’RE ON TWO COUNTDOWNS at the same time: Inauguration and digital conversion. January 20 and February 19. First, when you think about it, this is the Integration Inauguration. The one where one of the big questions about this major event will be… What RICHARD PEGUE outfit is the new first lady Chicago Radio Personality going to wear? And since Michelle is going to be the new fashion trendsetter for the next four years, this is major important! Michelle chic will be mentioned often for the first time since the early ’60s. Since Barack was chosen, the designers have been studying, sketching, submitting and selling their ideas. But we’ll have to wait to see what Chicago’s Michelle wears to the party. Chicago Designing Fashionaires, are you on the short list? We hope so! SNOWDAY HOLIDAY-It’s now Friday, December 19 and I’ve been up since six taking in all the reports of sleet, snow, sliding traffic and rail delay difficulties. Remember when you were a kid and used to enjoy weather like this because the schools would close for that instant holiday? Well, it ain’t like that any more! Snow shovel, snow blower, ice scraper and salt make a difference, and the older you get, the more it means. And this STREETWISE Public Service Message also reminds you to slow down while driving, walking and shoveling. Happy snow went out with streetcars. TV DEPARTMENT-NBC and JAY LENO are going to change the sleeping habits of Chicago and the country. With Leno’s move to 9 p.m., we could be on the forefront of a whole new nighty night procedure. But don’t start programming your DVR yet, as there might be more players in the game IF CBS decides to make the same move. OR, if DAVE LETTERMAN’s counter move is to put in a half hour show from 9 p.m. until 9:30, then news from 9:30 until 10. At 10 Letterman would start just as Leno ends. No half-hour separating the end of Leno and start of Letterman. See one, then see the other. Get ready because it’s going to be TV wars in the fall. Stay tuned. By the way, the other night, Letterman’s Paul and the band played I Wa nt To Testify by George Clinton’s Parliament and Dave

really got into it and named the song. I was surprised and smiled when Dave showed he was so musically into the funk. Right on, Dave! And at Channel 5, RENEE FERGUSON retires after 21 years with NBC 5. We only met twice, once at WGCI and a year ago at NBC. She’s a fine lady. GEORGE, YOU LEFT US TOO SOON. Can you imagine how GEORGE CARLIN would have handled that shoe-throwing guy situation? You also would have appreciated George’s explanation of how we got in this worldwide financial mess. If you don’t know George Carlin, pick up one of his three or four books. And have you picked up my two recommended books: Dempsey Travis’ Autobiogra phy Of Bla ck Ja zz and Ra ge To Survive by ETTA JAMES and David Ritz. Let’s get with it! I KNOW SHE WAS BEAUTIFUL because of what she wrote. I happened to pick up a community newspaper and read her article on what she knew best: Public Housing in Chicago. Written by BEAUTY TURNER. With a name like that, I had to take time to read her description of life in the high rises and the stories about her bus tours through the projects. Beauty’s legacy and byline was “giving a voice to the voiceless.” Beauty B. Hardy was born in 1957 and raised in Stateway Gardens. She later spent time in Robert Taylor while becoming a community activist. Writing for the public housing newspaper, The Residents’ Journa l later, Beauty Turner started the Ghetto Bus Tour franchise. She took people who would never get a close-up view of the Dearborn and Ickes homes into the community to meet the people and establish communication. I never personally met Beauty, only talked to her on the phone twice. We lost her Sunday, December 14. Who’s going to take her place? If they could. Blessed Beauty. SENIORS ON THE MOVE: MONDAY at The Atlas Center, 79th and Cregier between Stony and Jeffery, with me and The Best Music Of Your Life at 11 a.m. THURSDAY, it’s the new West Side Central West Dept. of Senior Services, 2102 W. Ogden from 11 a.m. until 1 with Pat Stovall, Ann Digby and the Westside Seniors. SUNDAY, the party is at the KIMBARK LAUNDRY at 53rd and Woodlawn in the plaza. It’s Dancing With The Detergent from 4 until 7 p.m. Come wash and step with the soapsuds and me. VISIT US our Web site at THEBESTMUSICOFYOURLIFE.com.

I’m just an ordinary guy, but I was wondering… By Nominal Nomenclature

1) Do you get it? Am I, the taxpayer, going to end up paying money to bail out an auto company that makes cars that I can’t get a loan for, can’t afford, or don’t want to buy? So either way, because SOMEBODY was loose with the finances, I lose. It’s not right! Right? 2) Ain’t no shame but--did you re-wrap presents that you don’t want or need and give them to someone else? 3) How in sensitive! Didn’t you get mad at Saturday Night Live for their bad judgment and ill-conceived Governor David Paterson “blind” skit?

5) Is minority involvement going to become a BIG contract thing as we approach the Olympic construction and preparation period? 6) Maybe it’s just me, but the lady who might replace Arne Duncan, Barbara Eason-Watkins, with those glasses, doesn’t she look a look a lot like former alderman Arenda Troutman? 7) It’s not impossible, so what if Gov. Rod was NOT guilty, because he was working with the people who are doing the investigation? Just to see who would come out of the woodwork?

4) Does the (education) world really run on (Arnie) Duncan?

J A N U A R Y 7-J A N U A R Y 13, 2009

Beauty Turner W W W. S T R E E T W I S E . O R G

FoodWise with Ginny & the Chef Chef’s Secret Recipe Banana Magic Cupcakes

~ makes 12 ~ Shopping List: Glaze Topping

• 1 c. of softened low-fat cream cheese • 1/4 c. fresh orange juice • 1/4 c. honey or agave • 1/2 tsp. of vanilla extract • 1/4 c. crushed walnuts (optional) Cupcake Batter

• 2 c. whole wheat flour • 1/2 c. oat bran • 1/4 tsp. baking soda • 1/4 tsp. salt • 1/8 tsp. of pumpkin spice • 4 ripe bananas (mashed) • 1 small carrot (grated) • 3/4 c. brown sugar • 2 eggs • 1/4 tsp. vanilla extract • 1/4 c. chopped walnuts

Ginny’s Cooking Instructions

Cupcakes!

By Ginny & the Chef

StreetWise contributors

CUPCAKES are all the rage in the Windy City. It seems as if every trendy or artsy Chicago neighborhood sports at least one micro-bakery specializing in cupcakes. Just Cupcakes. No cookies. No Pies. No breads. Some don't even offer a beverage to go with the tasty little treats. Perhaps the trendsetter bakery in this sweet niche is also named CUPCAKES, 613 W. Briar, Chicago, (773) 525-0817. This place was the first and is still one of the best. Serving over 60 varieties, it is every child's dream. (No matter how old you are!) Do you remember your first cupcake? Swirlz bakery at 705 W. Belden has been on the cupcake scene for a couple years now, and it boasts a different gluten-free cupcake every day of the week. Those of you with gluten sensitivities can enjoy a tasty treat of your very own. As with other cupcake “bars” popping up in New York and San Francisco, Chicago has its version of the upscale cupcake bar. More cupcakes at 1 E. Delaware is considered an upscale cupcake bar. Yes, there’s no place to sit and enjoy your treat; however, there is a Starbucks right next door. What makes More different from the others is the style of cupcakes they serve. You can get a sweet version, like its “Hostess” style made with devils food cake and real cream, or try one of its savory versions, like the BLT made with fresh bacon batter, tomato and bacon icing. Another savory version is the Maple Bacon – tastes similar to pancakes and bacon, all in one bite! And then there’s Molly’s Cupcakes at 2536 N. Clark St.Wolfy and the gang have created an old-fashioned, bakery-style hang out, complete with swinging chairs at the bar. They also serve Chicago’s very own

Intelligentsia coffee. This place makes you want to stay a while to enjoy your decadent cupcake-and coffee! Are desserts and decadence making a come back in this economy? Well, Chicago has been there and done that. Five years ago in an up and coming section of downtown, a very trendy hot spot named SUGAR opened. Chef J was a regular. It was a sleek, contemporary space dedicated to soothing guests with comforting savories, sweets, and drinks fit for grown-ups. The nightspot had a fast rise to fame and closed a couple years later. Though it was very popular with the glitterati girls and the entourage boys who chased them, it did not make any money. The place was a big favorite with women and businesspersons. It turns out that, at least in Chicago, women don't drink as much as men do, and after a few over-thetop desserts, most people weren't interested in knocking back five or six cocktails. That is how a nightclub makes a bigger profit margin, on the drinks of course, not desserts. Dessert “bars” are popping up here and there. Many are next to coffee shops and wine bars. For city dwellers who perhaps cannot afford, or choose to, not dine out five days a week, and who still crave the “night out” city experience, these dessert bars might be the perfect answer for those cravings. For more inside tips on what’s hot and what’s not, visit Chef J’s new Chicago food blog, the FOOD AND BEVERAGE UNDERGROUND. www.foodandbeverageunderground.com/Chef-J.html And for the latest news on food health and fitness, keep on reading Ginny & The Chef! W W W. S T R E E T W I S E . O R G

•You will need 3 medium size bowls. • Preheat oven to 375 degrees. • Spray cupcake pans with non-stick spray. •In one bowl mix, flour, bran, baking soda, salt and spices together. •In another bowl, mash bananas, add grated carrots, and stir completely. •In a medium bowl, cream together the vegetable oil, brown sugar, eggs and vanilla (use a hand mixer or wooden spoon). • Mix thoroughly banana mixture with other wet ingredients. • Slowly add dry ingredients until thoroughly mixed. • Pour batter into prepared cupcake cups (fill threequarters full). • Bake cupcakes for 20 minutes or until toothpick comes out clean. • Remove from pan, let cool before frosting. To make glaze: • Whisk together the softened cream cheese, orange juice, honey and vanilla,until it becomes thick. • Use one tablespoon of glaze for each cupcake. •Sprinkle with crushed walnuts.

Nutrition Facts

J A N U A R Y 7-J A N U A R Y 13, 2009

Health & Exercise

New Year’s resolutions: Reality Check

By John Godoy StreetWise contributor john@lifepts.com

very year, thousands of Chicagoans go through the same ritual of making new year’s resolutions that start off strong but inevitably fizzle out. At this moment, fitness centers across Chicago are bracing for the annual “gym rush” where thousands of people of all ages, resolute on getting in shape, losing weight, or simply improving their health, pack their establishments obesity, skin from wall to wall... conditions, The cruel reality is that if you examine aging-related these same people conditions... one year from now, cardiovascularmost will be in the exact same state of related illnesses Goal setphysical health as are all physical ting is about they are right now. defining a manifestations of The main reason is major objective, that they enter the poor health breaking it down fitness arena armed into smaller benchsolely with lofty ideas and good intentions. mark goals and then furAbsent from their arsenal are a clearly defined ther breaking those down purpose or goal as to why they are there, and a into manageable tasks. By planned method of tracking their progress. How performing those tasks day in and day can anyone possibly steer a ship if they have no out, you chip away at the major goal and you clear map or destination? dramatically improve your chances of achieving Throngs of Chicagoans are also embarking it. on some sort of nutritional “adventure.” I am Real life is not like MapQuest. We cannot simcautious to say diet, as not everyone will succed ply type in a start and end point and have the at shedding pounds. computer spit out the plan.We are all different in Most people will posterms of our external and internal make up, the sess only broad goals, influences and experiences that shaped our good intentions and no clear plan. Although some may achieve emboldening initial sucGoal setting is about cess, the reality is that breaking it down into it’s possible to lose weight, feel better and and then further breaking improve health at the those down into onset if they simply cut calories or eat better. Unfortunately, experience shows that most will eventually hit a plateau, lose heart and give up. beliefs and our abilities to cope with obstacles So, given these bleak observations, how can and stress. Where we must find common you succeed? Five words: wha t gets mea sured, ground---and therefore what creates an even gets done. playing field---is goal setting and executing

defining a major smaller

objective, benchmark goals manageable tasks.

J A N U A R Y 7-J A N U A R Y 13, 2009

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the tasks required to achieve those goals. We must come to grips with the fact that there is no quick pill, diet, magic bullet, special exercise or machine that will get us to our clearly defined goal. It takes guts, heart and determination, something not all can stomach. There is a saying: “if it were easy, everyone would have it.” Goal setting with respect to health is about thinking long term rather than short term. Many of us focus on how we look on the outside and struggle to achieve what we believe society’s ideal is. Understand that obesity, skin conditions, many aging-related conditions and many cardiovascular-related illnesses are all physical manifestations of poor health. Identify the lifestyle-based, root cause of your symptoms and break your goals down from there. I encourage you to clearly define what you would like to achieve with respect to your health by Dec. 31, 2009. Then, break it down into smaller steps to which you attach individual tasks. I have found a program called “goal pros” absolutely invaluable to achieving my health goals and beyond. Good luck.

event calendar - January 7-January 13 Thursday Master Your Universe Change-Your-Life Fair-The Atrium of the State of Illinois Building hosts The Master Your Universe Fair. Companies speak to the consumer about self improvement and change by offering products and services that will significantly enhance quality of life. Master Your Universe participants will greet the crowd and will sell, sample, and promote their products and services. State of Illinois Building, Clark & Randolph Streets. 10 a.m-4 p.m. Free. The Chicago Sketch Comedy Festival- The eighth annual festival features local and national comedy acts on three stages (North, South and West). The festival begins January 8 and runs until January 18. Catch 35-minute performances by two ensembles on Thursday and Sunday; Friday and Saturday lineup is 40-minute, one-act shows. Theatre Building Chicago, 1225 W. Belmont Ave. For more information on performances, call 773327-5252 or visit www.chicagosketchfest.com. $12 per show or $150 for all-festival pass.

Friday 2009 Winter Chamber Music Festival-Celebrate chamber music at one of Chicago’s premier festivals: Northwestern’s 13th annual Winter Chamber Music Festival. This season features renowned guest artists plus members of the Chicago Symphony Orchestra and the Bienen School of Music faculty. The festival begins January 9 and runs until January 25 with concerts every Friday

and Sunday at 7:30 p.m. The concerts will take place at Pick-Staiger Concert Hall, Northwestern University. (50 Arts Circle Drive, Evanston, IL.) Friday, January 9- Evanston Chamber Ensemble; Sunday, January 11- Lincoln String Quartet; Friday, January 16- Cassatt Quartet; Sunday, January 18Shmuel Askenasi, Marc Johnson & Andrea Swan; Friday, January 23- James Giles, Robert McDonald, Joseph Genualdi & Gerardo Ribeiro; Sunday, January 25- Orpheus Chamber Orchestra. For more information, call 847.491.5441 or visit www.pickstaiger.org.$22-$30. The New Shanghai Circus- Acrobats of China display their skills in incredible acts ranging from group contortion and jar juggling to trapeze and pole climbing. The group formerly known as “Incredible! Acrobats of China” has gained recognition from the Culture Ministry of China, the highest administrative cultural office in that country. They have maintained the first entertainment group of their kind in the tough market of the U.S.A. The company now wishes to expand into a larger market. 7 p.m., the New Regal Theatre, 1645 E. 79th St. For more information, call 773.298.9400. $15; $10, kids.

Saturday The Shakespeare Project of Chicago-In accordance with Artifacts of Childhood: 700 Years of Children’s Books, an exhibition showcasing the development of children’s books over the last seven centuries, The Shakespeare Project of Chicago presents its original two-actor adaptation,

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50 Minute Hamlet. This production provides an excellent introduction to Shakespeare for students sixth grade and up. 11 a.m., The Newberry Library, 60 W. Walton St. For more information call 773.334.8771. Free.

Sunday Jim Craig, Ed Holstein and Mark Dvorak pay tribute to the songs of Chicago folk music legend Fred Holstein. Old Town School of Folk Music, 4544 N. Lincoln Ave. 4 p.m. For more information, call 773.728.6000. $16-$20. -COMPILED BY TARYN RANDLE

Holiday recovery—spend the day in Bucktown By Julie Cameron Urban Shop Guide, StreetWise contributor

and accessory items.

While some folks’ idea of recovery from the holiday rush might not include more shopping, a day in Bucktown offers a little something for everyone.

Time out--take a break and warm up at Northside Bar and Grill. Snag the table by the fire and have a hot toddy or two before heading out for the second half of the day.

Relax and snack--start the day at SpaForever on North Damen. Spa services may seem a bit indulgent in this economy, but SpaForever offers incredible values on hour-long facial and massage services. Next, hit Goddess and the Grocer. Refuel after your relaxing spa services with some coffee and a sandwich at Goddess. Their fresh sandwiches are just the right size to get you through the shopping portion of the day. Bucktown mainstay shops P45 and Tangerine are must-stops in your Damen Avenue visit. Both boutiques carry unique pieces that will be the special item in your wardrobe for years to come. After that, hit Clothes Minded for your winter ensemble. Their assortment of cozy sweaters and array of great layering pieces will be staples in your closet. Don’t leave the guys out. Both Riley and Apartment Number 9 have some of our favorite men’s clothing

Shop more--Beta Boutique is next and is stocked with great deals on sample and overstock items. We are always wary of sample sales outside of New York City, but this is the real deal, and the slow retail season in the department stores and full-price boutiques has made the selection here better than ever. Climate is a great card and gift shop with multiple locations on the North Side. The greeting card assortment will have you laughing out loud. Stock up on cards for 2009, and you’ll have one on hand for every occasion. Finally, hit Scoop, a short walk away on North Milwaukee Avenue. Scoop has gorgeous clothing all year round, but this time of year features its famed resort collection. I understand that it is winter in Chicago, but trying on colorful caftans, bright sandals and other beach attire this time of year gives one hope for the distant summer. Scoop is a breath of W W W. S T R E E T W I S E . O R G

fresh air during the winter doldrums. Eat and Drink--Lastly, Bristol is our new favorite Bucktown spot for small plates and wine. Bristol offers a great neighborhood atmosphere with delicious food. Communal tables add to the fun of checking out other guests’ dishes. Much of the menu is “snack” size, so that there is an excuse to taste a number of different items. Round out your relaxing day with their seasonal cocktail menu and an assortment of organic wine.

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StreetWise Contact: Michael Speer at 312. 829.2526 Address: 1201 W. Lake St. Chicago Tasks: Aid in adult education, including computer assistance, GED studies and job readiness training. Time commitment: Flexible Become a Vendor. Prescreening 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Monday through Thursday. Ask for Michael or Greg.

Due to limited space, StreetWise will be cycling various volunteer contacts throughout the month. For a full listing, please visit the new StreetWise Web site at www.streetwise.org

The Illinois Hunger Coalition The Illinois Hunger Coalition is seeking a volunteer to work at our downtown Chicago office. We are a statewide non-profit organization that combats hunger and poverty through education and advocacy. We also run a Hunger Hotline (1.800.359.2163) that provides a number of services including: referrals to food pantries and free and reduced-price clinics, referrals to the WIC program, and referrals to programs that help cover the cost of utilities and housing. We also prepare food stamp applications and applications for free medical insurance over the telephone. Please contact Diane Doherty at 312.629.9580 or email dianedihc@aol.com with subject titled “VOLUNTEER” if you are interested in this opportunity.

The Chicago Recovery Alliance Contact: Dan Bigg, cra@att.global.net Address: Many sites throughout the city Tasks: Syringe exchange, medical care, overdose program, safe sex/injection education, substance abuse and shelter referrals, legal assistance (training included for all services). Time commitment: Flexible; site visits last 2 hours. Website: www.anypositivechange.org

Community Health Contact: Kelly Jordan, kjordan@community health.org www.communityhealth.org or call 773.395.9901 ex. 23 Address: 2611 W. Chicago Ave. Tasks: Community Health is a free health clinic offering free primary and specialty care as well as medication. We are looking for volunteer Polish and Spanish interpreters. Interpreters need not know medical terms, but must be at least conversational in either Spanish or Polish. We are also in need of Volunteer Physicians and Specialists. Volunteer Physicians and Specialists must be licensed in Illinois. Volunteers are needed for day, evening and Saturday clinics. Time commitment: Generally 1-2 times per month.

session, you will gain knowledge and experience on the hospice philosophy, death and dying issues, grief and bereavement. Time commitment: Flexible

Court Appointed Special Advocates Contact: LaDora Robinson-Locke, 312.433.4928 Address: 1100 S. Hamilton St. 8 West Tasks: Act as a nonlegal advocate and friend for a child in the court system (training provided.) Time commitment: 1-year commitment

Metropolitan Tenants Organization Contact: Rebecca McDannald, 773.292.4980 ext. 223 Address: 1180 N. Milwaukee Ave. 1st Fl. Tasks: Work on Tenants’ Rights hotline, data entry. Time commitment: 8-hour training session, but hours are flexible. Website: www.tenants-rights.org

Access to Recovery Contact: Vince Gillon, 773.407.9030 Address: 113 Custer, Evanston Tasks: Assist with office duties pertaining to ATR clients. Help with computer tasks, such as creating resumes, employment search and online applications. Time commitment: Flexible Email: carepoint@ameritech.net Website: www.carepointoutreach.org

Albany Park Community Center Contact: Michelle Fleming, 773.433.3737 Address: 5121 N. Kimball Ave. Near CTA Brown Line Kimball stop. Tasks: Tutor immigrants and new readers in English and literacy skills. Training provided. Time commitment: 2-4 hours per week.

UNITY Hospice Contact: Dorris Mitchell, 312.949.1188 Address: 439 E. 31st St. Tasks: Provide support to terminally ill patients and their families. Duties include visiting with patients, reading, friendly conversation, sharing a meal, light errands, and companionship. Time commitment: Flexible, usually 8-hour training commitment required.

VITAS Healthcare Contact: Beverly Carnes-Brinson, Volunteer Services Manager, 773.533.2890 Address: 700 N. Sacramento Tasks: Patient care at home or in a nursing home, inpatient unit, administrative, bereavement. Training: VITAS Healthcare in Chicagoland Central is offering free hospice volunteer training as a community service to persons interested in providing support to the terminally ill and their families. In this comprehensive

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StreetWise Feature Greg with daughter, Genesis where Greg used to sell his StreetWise papers, near the Millenium Park parking garage.

Greg Pritchett: 10 years of

PHOTO BY GRACE FEDERIGHI

Busting & smashing stereotypes By Ben Cook StreetWise Staff

treetWise is a place that empowers men and women who are homeless—or at risk of being homeless—to selfsufficiency.”The words flow with a practiced rhythm, falling on the ears of a group of four men who decided that this particular Wednesday they were going to turn their life around by attending orientation. StreetWise Director of Distribution Greg Pritchett has trained over 5,000 men and women to use StreetWise as a tool to create a brighter future for themselves. At the heart of the training is the mission statement, which Greg recites from the perspective of a person who benefited from its practice. Greg is celebrating 10 years as an employee of StreetWise. “I’ve done everything at StreetWise, from representing the organization (speaking at universities), to selling advertisements. I’ve written poetry for the paper, instructed orientation, unloaded trucks, mopped floors, worked security and sold papers for a couple years before all of that. Greg was born in Detroit to a family of musicians. His father, Richard Mitchell, sang with a group called the Capitals, who in the year that Greg was conceived, were on top with a hit called “Cool Jerk.” Greg recalls, “When I was born in ’67, the Capitals were one--hit wonders, looking for more gigs. Eventually, drugs started to mix in. My grandmother saw the warning signs, so she decided to take me away from all of that.” Greg’s grandmother, Alfreda, moved from Detroit to Chicago’s middle-class Chatham neighborhood, where Greg “didn’t want for nothing.” He attended the all-male private Catholic school Mendel, where he was introduced to the upcoming genre of “house” music at Mendel’s famous weekend parties.

While he participated in all three sports the school offered (football, basketball, and baseball) to keep himself busy—and out of trouble—it was music that Greg chose to pursue. He was three years into a communications/record production degree at Columbia when he secured an internship at Blue Noise studios. It was there that he met former Jimmy Hendrix drummer and California Raisin, Buddy Miles. Greg’s friendship with Buddy was extremely influential—they performed together, toured together and partied together.“I learned a lot of do’s and don’ts from Buddy--a lot more don’ts than do’s.” While Buddy had secured his musical legacy and could afford to live off of his name, his young protégé found himself in a thick haze of substance abuse and misplaced priorities. The wayward path eventually led to a three-year imprisonment. “During that period of my life I lost everything— everything that I thought was mandatory: my car, my house, the money. I discovered that when the money’s gone, the so-called friends are gone. When I got out I wanted to celebrate, but I had no one to celebrate with and nowhere to go. I was homeless in downtown Chicago.” Few can face the reality of going from comfort to having none at all. “I was 30 years old and I remember this one guy who kept telling me to come down to StreetWise and get my life together and I remember thinking, ‘StreetWise is for people going through all that homeless stuff.’ Who was I? What was I thinking? I was sleeping on trains and at the airport. I was gone—you wouldn’t have known me then.” Looking to make a quick buck, Greg attended the StreetWise orientation. He received his 10 free papers, which he then quickly sold at the same spot where he had been panhandling for nine months. The income allowed him to stay in transient hotels most nights, but it wasn’t until Greg started to take his life and his mind seriously that his life came together. “I started seeing all the money I could make selling papers; I started seeing my job as a real business opportunity.”

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J A N U A R Y 7-J A N U A R Y 13, 2009

From left, former executive director Anthony Oliver, Angela Bonner, and Gregory Pritchett at the 2004 StreetWise picnic in Lincoln Park.

By treating his paper sales as a business and by seeing himself as an entrepreneur, Greg was able to upgrade his living quarters to Lakefront SRO. When he wasn’t selling papers, he spent Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. - 4:30 p.m., learning how to use computers and the internet at the StreetWise work empowerment center. “I was taking advantage of idle time in a positive way. I found it really fascinating that any topic I could think of, I could just type it in and get all kinds of information about it. I remember a lot of vendors around that time thought that I was crazy because I was there every day, all day.” StreetWise employee Paula Mathieu led a writer’s group for vendors that Greg became involved in as well. “It was a really good outlet at the time—it was a way to let out a lot of the stuff that had been brewing inside,” Greg explained. Eventually, the writers group put together a proposal: to give a tour through the city they knew. This was not a glossy, pre-packaged city beat tour, but it was Not Your Mama's Bus Tour, a joint project organized by Anthony Oliver (thendirector of StreetWise) and Paula Mathieu, in collaboration with the Neighborhood Writing Alliance (publishers of the Journa l of Ordina ry Thought) under the direction of Bertolt Gunster of Theater Mandarijn of Utrecht, Holland. The tours continued for four years and consisted of vendors telling their stories while engaging the tourists in the city’s history. Greg happily played the role of tour guide for the offbeat show. While the tour provided a creative outlet, Greg felt there was a problem with how vendors were perceived throughout the city. “I didn’t want them to be seen as bums, but entrepreneurs. I didn’t want vendors to inherit those bad stereotypes. I didn’t see vendors like that. During training I told incoming vendors that they didn’t have to add to those negative stereotypes but that they could create their own positive examples.” While Greg had previously volunteered to

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Greg Pritchett conducts an orientation session for incoming StreetWise vendors in December 2008.

train incoming vendors, it eventually became his career calling. Giving people who come in StreetWise’s door on their last leg an opportunity became an addiction for Greg. “I believe that opportunity can kick poverty’s butt every time.” He loves to see the turnaround; after two or three weeks of having a job, vendors have more self-confidence, or as Greg puts it, “pep in their step.” By giving vendors the basic tools for selfsuccess, plus the stability and programs to keep a positive momentum, they have a unique recipe to get back on their feet. “What keeps me going is that sometime during each day I impact someone’s life. Every night I go to bed knowing that I affected at least one person that day—a lot of people can’t say that about their jobs,” Greg said.

‘

Greg lives it more than anyone I know. He’s a man who works from integrity.” While he works to inspire those down on their luck during the day, Greg has his own source of inspiration coming from his home. His 14-month-old daughter, Genesis, and her mother, Greg’s girlfriend of 6 years, Sarah, have provided a new series of challenges and growth. “Knowing that you’re responsible for another life has been very humbling. Being with Genesis every day has allowed me to experience things that I never have before. It’s a joy.” In addition to working behind the scenes at the StreetWise office, Greg has a more visable role as the host of the CAN-TV 21 call-in show, StreetWise Street Scene. The show runs two 13week seasons during the year.

I believe that opportunity can kick poverty’s butt every time

Michael Speer, current executive director of StreetWise said, “Greg Pritchett is the heart of StreetWise. He has an amazingly big heart for our vendors and our mission and for supporting the vendors as a part of that mission. He keeps a keen eye on what’s happening on the street, looking out for schemers and imposters who are looking to benefit off of StreetWise by infringing on our vendors. On one hand, I’ve seen him help vendors work on all of their personal issues. At the same time, he’s no push-over. He understands that we have to make the vendors self-sufficient by making them strong on their own. We don’t give a hand out, we give a hand up. Those are glib, fun words to say, but W W W. S T R E E T W I S E . O R G

’

On the show, Greg focuses on spreading the message that StreetWise is there for anybody. “Perhaps you don’t need StreetWise today, but it will be there for you tomorrow, you can bet on that.” Congratulations on 10 years of compassionate leadership Greg. StreetWise is lucky to have you. Greg would like to thank all of those who have supported him over the years, and allowed him to find his true calling, especially Anthony Oliver, Suzanne Hanney, Bruce Crane, Judd Horowitz, Karl Nass, Officer Ruben, Ollie Thomas, Michael Speer, Vern Cooper, the StreetWise Quality Assurance Team (QAT) and the entire StreetWise vendor force.

The Playground crossword

Ask Eugene Each week StreetWise’s own Eugene answers life’s toughest questions. If you can’t take the answer, don’t ask the question. Dear Eugene: My wife’s birthday is coming up next week. The problem is, I just used all of my good gift ideas for her during Christmas. What do I get her? — Ungifted Gifter, Streeterville

Dear Ungifted, I would recommend that you give your wife the greatest gift of all: dance. Don’t take her dancing, but instead spend hours carefully choreographing fresh, hip dance moves to perform to her favorite song. While this will not let you off the hook for skimping on an actual gift, she will be laughing too hard to be mad at you for long. Dear Eugene: Is it impolite to wipe my nose on my gloves? It’s really cold out there, and I don’t know what else to do. — Running Away, Humboldt Park

Dear Running, Man has been wiping his nose with his hand since the dawn of time. Don’t let the powerful tissue lobby guilt you into using their flimsy substitutes. Be a man: your ancestors didn’t need some delicate pillowy scented piece of disposable cloth to honk their ancient schnozzes in, and neither should you, for that matter. If people give you dirty looks, just smile a deep, satisfied smile knowing how much more angry this person would be if you wiped your nose on their hand. Trust me, it would be bad. Dear Eugene: Why don’t you take any of your reader’s questions seriously? — Annonymous

Dear Coward-who-is-not-named, Because, dear coward, most people take themselves seriously enough for both of us.

You can send Eugene your questions at 1201 W. Lake, Chicago, IL or e-mail him at supreme_eugene@yahoo.com

sudoku medium difficulty

last week’s answers

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J A N U A R Y 7-J A N U A R Y 13, 2009

Vendor Profile

Former trucker loves to socialize By Ben Cook StreetWise Staff

for everything and there’s always a sale made. If you stop and talk, but Tom Gibbon’s life had come don’t buy anything, then you made apart. For a period of time he the sale. But if I talk to you, and sell to you, then I made the drowned his sorrows. sale.” While alcohol turned The socializing with down the emotional customers is among the volumn knob temporarmany benefits of his ily, it wasn’t a perjob. “My job keeps me manant solution but To his young. I’ve got too rather it created a void. customers he much brain matter to “I came to StreetWise would like to just sit there and look because all I did was sit say happy out the window, so I around the house and New Year, all have to interact with drink a lot of beer. My the best and people. It’s the idea that life was going nowhere it’s a pleasure I can work on my own in a hurry. I had lost a to see them hours and people look dad and a house in whether they for me, and simple Indiana, and a wife at buy the paper things people say to me, the same time, so all I or just say hi. like ‘how are you this did was drink. Take it easy. evening?’ It’s a high all “Then I had an unto itself.” epiphany. After losing In the past Tom has my home, my family, and driven tractor-trailer a car--that I bought with semi trucks, and the cash--I gave up on the concept of “keep on rest of my life because I was a victim of the circumstances, truckin’” shows in the deep lines on so I had to turn the circumstances his face. “I’ve been to Canada, Mexico, Ireland and Scotland and around.” Tom made a serious effort to get here I am back to ‘keep on truckin.’ himself clean and sober. He didn’t I like the feeling of accomplishjust set goals, he completely com- ment about my job. When I get mitted himself. “I started going to there, I get there. I have severe Alcoholics Anonymous, and spent arthritis in my back, so I don’t six months in rehab at Guild always have the luxury of moving like I would like to. Sometimes my House.” After he got out of rehab, Tom medical conditions are overwhelmneeded to keep his positive ing, so people might be looking for momentum going. “This (selling me when I’m at the doctor.” When he’s not selling the magaStreetWise) is a good way to keep my feet on the ground and sober— zine, Tom enjoys watching TV and with the threat of me regressing spending time with his girlfriend. into the past always there. But He also enjoys spending money that’s not going to happen as long and “stimulating the economy.” To his customers, he would like as I keep putting one foot in front of the other, and continue to sell to say happy New Year, all the best and it’s a pleasure to see them these papers.” Tom sells his magazines “all over whether they buy the paper or just Blue Island, 111th and Western, say hi. Take it easy. 111th and Kedzie. I got an answer

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Meet: Tom Gibbons

Went through a 6-month rehab program.

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Has been to Ireland, Mexico and Scotland. Available at www.streetwise.org

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StreetWise Streets e e is back

The 5th season of StreetWise s call-in TV show premieres on CAN-TV 21 on January 7 at 5 p.m. Join host Greg Pritchett and his guests as they discuss StreetWiseâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s mission and upcoming events. The show will be on every Wednesday at 5 p.m.