March 4-10, 2009 by StreetWise

" O L . 17

2 Buy StreetWise only from a badged vendor

M A R C H 4 - M A R C H 10, 2009

YO+R CITY FROM THE STREETS

ThinkWise

Moving Beyond Appearances success. They did so by refusing to succumb to outer appearances, while relying on a deeper power. There is a power which lies back of our beliefs about appearances, a power available to every person. In the words of Napoleon Hill, in his 1937 masterpiece, Think a nd Grow Rich: “both poverty and riches are the offspring of thought.” In the book, The Science of Getting Rich, published in 1910, author Wallace D. Wattles explains the power of our thought as follows: Mary Beth & Michael Speer “There is a thinking Stuff from which all things are made, and which, in its original state, perIn our world, we face many challenging meates, penetrates, and fills the interspaces of appearances each day. Just listen to the news the universe. A thought, in this Substance proor read the papers – everywhere we turn, we duces the thing that is imaged by the thought. hear about challenges in the econMan can form things in his thought, and, by omy, businesses struggling or closimpressing his thought upon ing their doors, layoffs, and continFormless Substance, can cause the ued slumps in the real estate and thing he thinks about to be creatfinancial markets. ed.” Today, almost 100 years later, The key word here is “appearthese very ideas are widely supportWhen you ances.” A dictionary definition of ed and taught not only by motivadecide not to be tional and spiritual leaders, but by the word appearance is: “the act or instance of appearing; the look or scientists who study the principles moved by outward aspect of a person or of Quantum Physics. appearances, thing; anything that appears; a Can you sustain your life and thing seen.” We can’t and don’t the appearances even flourish in these challenging deny that appearances are happentimes? Absolutely! Millions of indiin your life viduals are proving this to be true – ing and affecting us personally. But what we can do is deny the power move for you! and so can you! You have the abiliin these appearances. In fact, this is ty to move beyond any appearthe single most powerful and effecances in your life and create the tive thing you can do! life you desire. Change your thinkIt is a known fact that there were ing, change your life… countless individuals and companies that flourished and even became millionaires during the Mary Beth & Michael Speer period known as “The Great Depression.” In the accounts they shared when looking back Mary Beth Speer is Executive Director of the over those times, a common denominator DuPage Center for Spiritual Living. Michael Speer shared by all was this: each attributed their is Executive Director and Publisher of StreetWise success to fresh, innovative thinking. In other and is also a Spiritual Teacher at DuPage Center. words, they saw beyond the appearances and Contact them by e-mail at mspeer@streetwise.org in so doing, created an experience of great or visit their website at www.dupagecenter.org

StreetWise needs your help! StreetWise’s headquarters relies on the goodwill and hard work of volunteers to strengthen our mission and services to those in need. The following are current volunteer positions available at our office: •Donated Clothing Coordinator •Office and Office File Organizer •Kitchen and other supply rganizer •Computer Guru •Tutoring/Mentoring

•Fundraising Events support •Advertising Researcher •Grant Writer or Researcher •Sell Subscriptions to Corporations/Businesses •Outreach/Recruitment of new vendors •Distributor of StreetWise flyers to those in need •Heating/Cooling Service person •Writer for StreetWise Magazine To find out more about how you can help, e-mail Pam Frye at pamfrye1@comcast.com

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

Executive Director/Publisher Michael Speer

mspeer@streetwise.org

Editor in Chief

Suzanne Hanney suzannestreetwise@yahoo.com

Director of Distribution Greg Pritchett

gpritchett14@yahoo.com

Production & Marketing Manager Ben Cook

bcook@streetwise.org

Director of Advertising & Corporate Development Grace Federighi grace@streetwise.org

Advertising Sales Executive Michael Montes

Advertising Sales Executive Mary Faith Hilboldt

Board of Directors Rob Federighi-President ChicagoBroker.com

Pete Kadens-Vice President SoCore Energy

Judd R. Horwitz-Treasurer Judd R. Horwitz & Co. P.C.

Ray Gillette-Secretary

Downtown Partners Chicago

Bruce Crane Retired

Judd Lofchie

StreetWise Founder Lofchie & Associates, Inc.

Danny K. Davis

U.S. Congressman, 7th District, Illinois

Pam Frye Retired

Lee Barrie

Kurman Communications, Inc.

Jonathan Reinsdorf

Stonegate Development-Partners, LLC

Kevin Ward John J. Leonard Morgan Stanley

Lonnie Lloyd

Interim Vendor Representative

Timothy Ray

Neal, Gerber, Eisenberg LLP.

Adam Meek

LLP. DLA Piper US LLP

Mission Statement: To help people help themselves to self-sufficiency through gainful employment. StreetWise is published weekly and is sold by the poor and homeless of Chicago. StreetWise is a registered 501 (c)3 non-profit organization and is a member of the North American Street Newspaper Association.

1201 W. Lake Chicago, Illinois 60607 Office: 312-829-2526 Fax: 312.829.2623

www.streetwise.org M A R C H 4-M A R C H 10, 2009

INSP Malawi women fight for equal representation StreetWise welcomes The Big Issue Malawi—the newest street paper—by republishing its inaugural story regarding women fighting for a role in Malawi affairs of state.

page

Event Calendar

0p9.5

St. Patrick’s Day Special Section-The music, parades, gifts, and celebrations kick off at Navy Pier this Friday, and don’t stop for 11 days. StreetWise lists the must-go-to events for the 2009 Green Scene.

page

Entrepreneur of the Week Meet Samuel Martin StreetWise spotlights Samuel Martin, who has come back to sell magazines after he was laid off of his steel mill job. Read Sam’s inspirational story to see how he stays inspired to succed.

page

15th annual Chicago Neighborhood Development Awards

A look at the men and women who were the greatest agents of change in Chicago during 2008. page

news

streetwise

entertainment

volunteer

INSP page 5 This Week in Chicago page 6 Cover Story page 12-13

the playground page 14 vendor profile page 15

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

listings online at www.streetwise.org

M A R C H 4-M A R C H 10, 2009

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

Guest Editor: Access Living

People with disabilities take on unemployment, stigma Photo and story by Gary Arnold Public Relations Coordinator, Access Living

ith recent bail-out history in mind, millions of us are anxious about the Economic Stimulus Package, wondering if it will be a repeat of the 2008 Financial Bail-out, rewarding just a handful of executives, or if it will create jobs for people ready to work. Among those ready to work are people with disabilities. According to the 2007 Census, the employment rate of working age people with disabilities is less than 40 percent, compared to 80 percent for people without disabilities. The percentages translate to 14 million people with disabilities who are able to work, want to work, are ready to work, but can’t find work. The staggering unemployment numbers are not a product of the most recent economic crisis alone. They are a product of an economic and social system that excludes people with disabilities. Even with civil rights laws that protect people with disabilities from discrimination in the workplace, and multiple programs designed to put the community to work, millions of people with disabilities have not found jobs. Explanations include legal protections that have lost their teeth – federal plaintiffs win just 15% of job discrimination cases -- ineffective jobs programs, and inaccessible work spaces and technology. In addition, social stigma denies too many people the opportunity they deserve. Chicago resident William Owens carries the reality of that stigma. Over the course of three years, through Vocational Rehabilitation Programs and on his own, Owens has applied for hundreds of jobs, from Burger King cashier to customer service. He has never been hired. Perhaps he was not the best candidate for each job, but there are problems with a system that denies a chance to an eager applicant who has applied for scores of fast food and entry level jobs.

Melinda Gerstein leads chant for Disabled Americans Who Want Work Now campaign during a February 19 rally.

Hopeful about the most recent version of the Economic Stimulus Package, which includes millions of dollars for disability programs that could lead to employment, people with disabilities in Chicago aren’t willing to wait for a job to knock at the door. On Thursday, February 19, a coalition of disability and economic empowerment groups launched an advocacy campaign to ensure that stimulus funds earmarked for disability are used to create employment solutions. At Federal Plaza, the coalition rallied to raise awareness about employment barriers and discrimination. The group urged U.S. Senator from Illinois Dick Durbin to work with people with disabilities to reform job programs and to ensure that agencies

which receive stimulus money hire people with disabilities. While two representatives from the group negotiated with Durbin’s office at 230 South Dearborn, the others passed out leaflets and carried signs on the plaza. After a few hours, Durbin’s office scheduled a meeting, at which the two sides will begin to develop concrete employment solutions. For Owens, who attended the rally, the demonstration was a hopeful step in a long, challenging journey toward employment. “For this country to get back on track,” Owens said,“we all need to do our part. I am here today because I am ready to do mine.”

Contributing Writers John Godoy is a Chicago-based wellness consultant and personal trainer with a leading prevention-based, integrative health and wellness provider.

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.

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 the Chicago Tribune and On-Health magazine. Ginny has a bachelor’s degree in nutrition science and dietetics and a master’s degree in nutrition communications & marketing.

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.

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

Jim Memolo is a member of WGN’s 720 Sports Central, where he can be heard from 7 to 9 p.m. weeknights and weekend afternoons. Memolo previously hosted morning drive on Sporting News Radio and was morning drive co-host for five years on WSCR. He also served as producer for Howard Cosell's shows on ABC Radio. Noleen Kelly Power hails from Dublin, Ireland. She studied Social Science at University College, Dublin and Photography at Dublin Institute of Technology. After college she spent a year traveling the world on a shoe-string budget with her husband, Joe. Currently raising two small children, she plans to concentrate more on writing after returning to the workforce.

M A R C H 4-M A R C H 10, 2009

International Network of Street Papers (INSP)

Malawi women fight for equal representation By Daniel Manyowa The Big Issue Malawi (debut issue)

espite efforts by local and international women and gender activists championing the cause for more women in decision making positions, Malawi is unlikely to achieve the 50-50 representation in its 193member Parliament come May 19 elections, activists have said. Donors have pumped in a lot of resources to see women being trained on how to conduct campaigns, but their way to the august House is still dominated by more challenges than opportunities. "The issue of women in Parliament is taking the right direction though we might not achieve the intended figures," observed Rev. McDonald Sembereka, chairperson of the Council for Non Governmental organisations in Malawi (CONGOMA). He commended efforts being made to provoke thoughts of the Malawian population on the issue but highlighted the need for more political will, which he said is currently lacking. “I believe if the party gurus decided today to make deliberate attempts to make women take up the seats as desired by the civil society, it would happen," said Sembereka. Many observers have said primary elections political parties are conducting in the run up to next year’s general elections continue to act as an impediment to women aspirants. They say violence, favoritism and heavy financing of men’s, rather than women’s, campaigns still place women at a disadvantage in the primaries. "Not all primaries have given chance to women. Women have simply not been given the chance to participate," Undule Mwakasungula, director for Centre for Human Rights and Rehabilitation said. Concurring with Sembereka, Mwakasungula said Malawian women do not have adequate campaigning skills and that the social economic culture still disfavors them. Recent research his organization conducted in the Central region districts of Mchinji, Dowa and Ntchisi revealed almost all party top district posts are held by men. Unfair allocation of party resources and positions; women not willing to support each other; lack of deliberate policies to promote women are some of the factors derailing efforts to increase women representation in Parliament, according to some observers. They say some Southern Africa Development Community (Sadc) countries have quota systems that give women a chance to go to Parliament. Besides, local observers said women’s own attitude that they are supposed to play secondary roles to men in politics greatly disfavors their rise in political circles.

M A R C H 4-M A R C H 10, 2009

"Women in Malawi still dance and sing for male politicians. How can they make it to higher positions with such kind of mindset,” lamented Dorothy Nyasulu, the outgoing chairperson of Malawi Human Rights Commission (MHRC). Nyasulu suggested women must change their attitudes towards men: that being in senior political positions is their right, not a favor.

‘

Women in Malawi still dance and sing for male politicians. How can they make it to higher positions with such kind of mindset?

’

“Women aspirants must fight for their place in Parliament and not expect to get it on a silver platter, Nyasulu said. "It would be very childish for aspirants to think they would go to Parliament on charity," said Reen Kachere, chairperson of the permanent committee on women in politics. Kachere has since won primary elections to contest for the ruling Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) in the Southern district of Neno. A lot of efforts have been made to help women compete with men, but some women aspirants were reluctant to vigilantly contest, Kachere said. W W W. S T R E E T W I S E . O R G

She said men have an unfair advantage in most constituencies because of their general nature of inducing violence and well established financial capacity but women aspirants should tirelessly compete with them rather than frustrate other women. Some organizations such as Norad, Action Aid, Oxfarm among others, have supported women financially to compete against men in the forthcoming polls. Many women across the country have complained some political parties set exorbitant fees for primary elections to hinder their participation. Malawian women have over time shown they are capable of occupying top positions. Senior posts like minister of foreign affairs, government spokesperson, clerk of Parliament, attorney general, chairperson of the Malawi Electoral Commission, deputy governor of the Reserve Bank of Malawi, first deputy Speaker of Parliament, among others, are all held by women. The under-representation of women mirrors their marginalization in the society, despite Malawi being party to several protocols including the Sadc Gender and Development, Convention on Elimination of Discrimination Against Women (CEDAW) and the African Union 50-50 Campaign. Currently, only 14 percent of the 193-member Parliament in Malawi are women. Reprinted from The Big Issue Ma lawi © Street News Service: www.street-papers.org

This Week in Chicago: 50 Years Ago Editor-in-Chief & vendor volunteer #6908

50 Years ago this week... ronzeville residents had a full plate of entertainment, as shown in the March 9, 1959 Chica go Defender . Electric bluesman Muddy Waters and his band had become “a permanent fixture” at Smitty’s Corner, 35th Street and Indiana Avenue, on Thursdays through Mondays. Over at the Packing House Workers Hall, 4853 S.Wabash Ave., Chicago’s best three dance bands would compete that night to be one of 10 finalists across the United States and Canada. Sponsored by the American Federation of Musicians, Local 208, (which was the segregated local until its merger with Local 10 in 1966) admission was 75 cents. The Regal Theater at 47th Street and South Parkway (now Dr. Martin Luther King Drive) was

starting a $250,000 renovation that would mean 3,000 new, cushy seats, installed over the next two weeks, before an after show times so patrons would not be inconvenienced. The theater would remain open during remodeling of the front arcade, box office, lounge and lobby. The Sutherland Hotel at 47th and Drexel Boulevard hosted the Billy Taylor Trio. Taylor, a pianist, had just the previous year recorded two albums: The New Billy Taylor Trio and My Fa ir La dy Loves Ja zz , which featured arrangements by Quincy Jones and appearances by Gerry Mulligan, Jimmy Cleveland and Ernie Royal. The latter record was a jazz riff on the Broadway musical by Lerner and Loewe, which had not yet been made into a movie. Meanwhile, the Universal Talent Company hosted its monthly showcase of fast-rising local performers at the South Side Art Center, 3831 S. Michigan Ave. Entertainers included Tiny Davis,

From the Sports Desk We're saving you some more green! Advertise in our Green Issue on April 22nd and save 20% off a second ad. Deadline: April 6th

bandleader/vocalist; Ruby Lucas, drummer/ singer; William Barbee, pianist/comedian; Kande Kain, singer/comedienne; Jacques Christian, female impersonator/modern dancer; Milton Lamb, jazz poetry reader; Paul Turner, bass concert singer; Dede Babbette, exotic comedienne; Ray Stubbs, Shakespearean actor in a soliloquy from Hamlet; Dottie Tillman,“sultry song stylist;” Elvis Avant, primitive dancer; Jimmy Wofford, ballad singer; Jo Jo Pernell and his jazz combo. Bill Aikens and Al Garner alternated as emcees. At the opposite end of the entertainment spectrum, the Defender ran a story March 7 on Lutheran opposition to a bill in the Illinois General Assembly that would allow cities and towns to legalize bingo. Church leaders noted their concern for improving the educational system, “respect for honest work, strength of character and morality in all areas of life” and called gambling “an evil thing.” Legalizing it for charity, they said, “would give support to the mistaken idea that the end justifies the means.”

A-Rod run through the media juicer By Jim Memolo StreetWise Contributor Public wrath is an unpredictable force of human nature that, in 2009, is in a constant search for a scandal from which to feed. Alex Rodriguez is the latest blue plate special to be served up for scorn, and public reaction has been swift and strong. A recent poll showed more than half the fans want the Yankees third baseman banned from the Baseball Hall of Fame. The question yet unanswered is whether it is the person, the crime, or the betrayal of image that sends the crowd at the water cooler and the drive-thru into a frenzy. And why does the public storm rain unevenly over the landscape of shame? Rodriguez, henceforth referred by his dugout tag, ARod, was exposed as a steroid user by a Sports Illustrated piece that uncovered evidence that he tested positive for the performance enhancer in 2003. While you think fans would have grown calloused by steroid stories after Barry Bonds, Mark Mcgwire, Jose Canseco and Roger Clemens, just to name a few notables, the public reacted as if blindsided by the possibility of steroid use in baseball. A-Rod bypassed the previous failed methods of handling the smear of steroids, such as Bonds ignoring it, Mc Gwire looking to the future, or my personal favorite, Clemens claiming his stash was for his wife's use. No, ARod borrowed from former teammate Jason Giambi and admitted his use of steroids. Yet, the same tactic that allowed Giambi to fly under the steroid radar has not worked for A-Rod. A-Rod's problem is he is cursed by his talent and and his previous image. Unlike A-Rod, Bonds or Clemens, Giambi has never been considered a great of the game or even a noble icon. So, when he admitted to falling off the wagon there was little shock and no sense of betrayal. A-Rod, on the other hand, has been projected to shatter records and replace Babe Ruth as the greatest player of all time. He was presented as the one baseball superstar who could be counted on to redefine greatness and do it naturally. A-Rod was the public's antidote to Barry Bonds. Now, he is just another dose of kryptonite. W W W. S T R E E T W I S E . O R G

PHOTO COURTEY OF WWW.ASKMEN.COM

By Suzanne Hanney & Sylvester Quast

Make no mistake, Alex Rodriguez is a fraud. He is a talent of the highest order who has historically shrunk in the face of pressure and failed the challenge of competing naturally. And he really does not come off as that genuine, either. But, there is yet to be a satisfactory answer to how he could have handled the scandal differently other than to have avoided it in the first place. He confessed to his use of steroids, detailed his use and owned up to human frailty. He probably should have passed on the "young and stupid" explanation since Michael Phelps had already played that card way too recently. Strangely, the public has bought into Phelps’ youthful stupidity, but no such luck for A-Rod. After all, A-Rod is just human too, except maybe for the parts of him that have been synthetically grown.

M A R C H 4-M A R C H 10, 2009

CHICAGO’S BENNY the late ‘50s, and then Desa fina do and the Bossa Nova GOODMAN became The was all over the radio and shelves. Easy-to-listen-to Getz-Gilberto, One-Note Sa mba . Stan Getz blew until King Of Swing and first saw 1991. Great Getz! Chicago as a tot in 1909. CHICAGO’S JOHNNY GRIFFIN, held in such high With clarinet lessons at 11, regard for his rapid tenor sax delivery, was known for Benny was on stage with his speed and tone. Benny Meroff’s orchestra. He joined Lionel Hampton in 1945 at age 17. 1934 found Benny playing Griffin excelled in—but was not limited to—jazz but the music in New York’s also played the popular music of the day. New York hotels and music rooms. called and Johnny joined the Jazz Messengers and His band hit the California Thelonious Monk, later teamed up with Eddie coast in the mid ’30s with RICHARD PEGUE “Lockjaw” Davis in tenor sax battles from NYC to the smooth swinging hot Chicago Radio Personality Chicago. About ’62 Griffin moved to Europe but still sounds of the day—which tours the States and blows ’em away. NEXT, Hampton, the younger folks appreciated. The New York radio Hawkins, and Chicago’s Harris and Hancock. broadcasts made his music the band to dance to and THEE EIGHT HER Theater: From the stage, have you the Swing Era started. MR. GOODMAN’s Chicago sound became so popenjoyed The Black Ensemble’s I GOTCHA, the story of ular that he was the first jazz artist to do Carnegie singer Joe Tex? It’s wowing audiences through March Hall in ’38. at 4520 N. Beacon. 773.769.4451. Later he recorded serious music by They got me. DOIN’ THE 9’s It’s our salute to Roger’s lady CHAZ Mozart and Bartok. The band broke EBERT, former student at Crane High tradition by becoming the first racialTake a quick look at 60 years of School, who donated $50,000 to the ly-mixed group with Teddy Wilson, what you were listening to in: 2009 class scholarship fund. Gene Krupa, the great Lionel Chaz graduated in 1969 and Hampton, Charlie Christian’s guitar 1999 Wild Wild West-Will Smith arranged the Ebert foundation donaand Cootie Williams with the sax of tion. It’s good to give back Georgie Auld. BIG HIT: Why Don’t 1989 Wind Beneath My WingsYou Do Right with a young Peggy >>Columbia College does a RAY Bette Midler Lee. The followers were Tommy CHARLES Tribute Concert at 7:30 Dorsey, Charlie Barnet, Glenn Miller Saturday, March 7 at the Harold 1979 Bad Girls-Donna Summer and Artie Shaw. Two of his hits…Sing Washington Library. For info 312.369. Sing Sing and Don’t Be Tha t Way. 6600 >> OSCAR’S Hugh Jackman was 1969 Everyday People-Sly Stone Goodman’s way? OK! surprisingly good in his opening segERROLL GARNER grew up to play 1959 Mack The Knife-Bobby Darin ment at the Kodak Theater. And that Pittsburgh piano on the local station BEYONCE’ didn’t miss a step in the 1949 Baby It’s Cold Outside/Ella by his 10th year in 1931. Leaving a sing/dance number. Good show. I’ll Fitzgerald. Philly orchestra in 1944, Erroll landed bet the Oscar-winning movie title in New York with Slam Stewart’s Trio. becomes a common street phrase… Next week DOIN’ THE 8’s. He started his own group, appeared ”SLUM DOG”! LINE DANCE LINDA really and recorded his rhythmic style with Penthouse Serena de and La ura . Then came MISTY enjoyed Georgia’s Red Ball for Valentine’s Day event at in 1954. Misty+ words + Sarah Vaughn = HUGE HIT. the Lexington House on West 95th. Was Kathy His best live work was 1957’s Concert By The Sea . Hairston there? LOST ANOTHER ONE... ESTELLE BENNET one of He left us Misty in 1977. STAN GETZ blew into Philly in 1927, moved to the RONNETTES at 67. Hits in ’63-65 Be My Ba by and Wa lkin’ In The Ra in produced by Phil Spector. Her NYC and melted into Woody Herman’s and Stan life after the two years of fame…tragic. Rest now. Kenton’s bands in 1944. VISIT OUR SITE TheBestMusicOfYourLife.com and Moving on to L.A. in ’47, he became the leader of Email BestDusty@aol. the new cool school of saxophone. Copenha gen in

PHOTO COURTESY OFWWW.JAZZPAGES.COM, WWW.SLAUGHTERPHOTO.COM, URGE2BURGE.WORDPRESS.COM

The Best Music of Your Life Benny Goodman

Errol Garner

Johnny Griffin

I’m just an ordinary guy, but I was wondering… By Nominal Nomenclature 1) Did you heard the 911 call from the woman with the chimpanzee who was attacking her female friend’s face? Don’t you think the police dispatcher was talking to her “like she was crazy” or like it was prank call? I think so. No compassion at all? 2) Has Roland been taking Rod lessons? Should Roland retire? 3) Did you bet on the Academy Awards? Make any money? 4) Do you really need a new digital antenna for that converter box? And what else are they gonna come up with? 5) You used to get your drug store medicine on an order from the doctor. But in TV ads we now get it from a “prescriber.” So when are we going to get our doctors back?

M A R C H 4-M A R C H 10, 2009

6) Too late, GONE! Weren’t Maurice Lenell Cookies really good? 7) Aren’t you glad the New York Post is in New York? 8) Why do cars with blue license plates drive so badly on the Chicago area expressways? 9) I didn’t understand this whole financial thing until Donald Trump explained it on Letterman’s Thursday night show. He said more in three minutes than all others have said in a week. Don’t you want to go back to the good old days when Bill Clinton was doing his thing and we were doing ours… Had a little money? 10) Is that Chris Brown guilty?

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

FoodWise with Ginny & the Chef Seared Ginger-Soy Salmon ~ serves 2 ~ Shopping List: • (2) 6 oz. salmon fillets. (thicker is better!) • 1 tbsp. ginger-soy sauce [365 brand or similar] • 1 tbsp. chicken stock [ low-sodium ] • 1 tsp. extra virgin olive oil • 1/8 tsp. cracked black pepper • salt to taste

Jump start your heart By Ginny & The Chef StreetWise Contributors, www.ginetics.org

f you are feeling sluggish, and winter has gotten too long, the best thing to do is get moving. Did you love jumping rope as a kid?. February was healthy heart month, and if you are still seeking some exercise that The average will boost your 150-pound heart rate in no person can burn time, jumping rope up to 360 is the way to go. calories in 30 Chef and I are here minutes. That is to tell you that equivalent to one jumping rope is chocolate-filled back in fashion—for donut. kids and adults!. Jumping rope is so easy and effective at lifting your spirits and energy level that you will wonder why you didn’t think of it sooner. What’s so great about jumping rope? You’ll burn mega calories and tone your arms and legs in no time. The average 150-pound person can burn up to 360 calories in 30 minutes.That is equivalent to one chocolate-filled donut. So pick up your rope, turn on your favorite upbeat

tune, and jump to it. You don’t need to spend $50 on a high-tech “professional” jumping device. All you need is a piece of sturdy rope! Pick one that you can easily hold on to and swing over your head. It should be long enough to just touch the ground when your arms are extended downward. First, try the basic 2-footed jump. Start with feet together, jump up and land on the balls of your feet. Your knees should be slightly bent to absorb the landing every time you jump. Try that for three minutes. Once you have it mastered, try the basic run in place by lifting each knee up as high as you can. Try combining front run, and then switch to backward. If you have that down pat you are ready for the “slalom” jump. Keep your feet together, and jump side to side as you jump the rope. This one also trims your waistline, if you add an exaggerated twist with the waist. Finally, when you have really mastered your rope skills, try the jump and leg curl. Start with the basic two-footed jump. Then bend your left knee and pull your left foot to “kick” your butt, and alternate with other leg. Keep the pace going… In no time, you will have sculpted the ideal bottom line!

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

Ginny’s Cooking Instructions: • Pre-heat oven to 400 F. • Using olive oil in an oven-safe skillet, quickly sear all sides of salmon fillets. • Remove fish from pan – set aside on a cool plate. • Add stock to pan. • Deglaze pan using chicken stock. Bring to boil. • Sprinkle fish with salt & pepper. • Coat fish evenly with ginger-soy sauce using a pastry brush. • Return salmon fillets to pan (with chicken stock). • Place pan in pre-heated oven. • Cook fish for 8 minutes or until it begins to “flake,” when tested with a fork. • Fish should be served immediately, on a heated plate • Garnish with lemon slices, fresh Italian parsley or basil leaves. • Enjoy with baby carrots and steamed asparagus.

Nutrition Facts

M A R C H 4-M A R C H 10, 2009

Health & Exercise

A fit lifestyle starts with a fit mind By John Godoy StreetWise Contributor, john@johngodoyfitness.com

tuck in a rut? Dead-end job? Economy got you down? Job prospects look bleak? Question: What are you doing about it? What are you doing to improve your situation in life? What are you doing to improve your capacity to better your circumstances? Read any good books lately? Exercise your mind lately? Just as physical exercise and good eating habits strengthen your body, self study, thinking and expanding your circle of friends strengthen your spirit and mind. Both are critical to your overall well-being and success in life. Where you are today is a result of every choice you have made in your life – some good, some bad. As a whole, they define you. If you wish to change your life, improve your life, better your situation – then the solution is this: you must further your education and you must meet new people. In other words, you must train your brain and meet and greet. It is that simple. Both are hard work, both take time. However, the rewards are infinite. Most people choose not to do either because it is hard and it takes them out of their comfort zone. But know this: it is the only way to take charge of your life and influence your future. Read books on self development, money management, language, design, leadership— whatever interests you. Just rea d. When you read, you strengthen your brain, while you open yourself to new ideas - one of which just may change your life. Read books on critical thinking, strategic thinking or creativity like “a whack on the side of the head” or “strategic thinking.” Through this, you strengthen your ability to reason and problem-solve your way to a better life.

Featuring: Sola Restaurant 3868 N. Lincoln Ave. (773) 327-3868 By Cindy Kurman and Lee Barrie StreetWise Contributors

Every Thursday, Sola features what they claim as their “soon-to-be prize winning” Wagyu burger, a featured beer, and a special appetizer, all with Gunthorp Farms bacon. While chef/owner Carol Wallack may have jumped the gun on winning top prize at the South Beach Food & Wine Festival earlier this month, her juicy, large 8-oz burger topped with a healthy slice of pungent Cambazola cheese, bacon, pineapple, caramelized onions, and arugula, served on a fresh Labriola pretzel roll with handcut fries, is certainly award-worthy even at the hefty $18 price tag. The burgers were perfectly cooked to order. We loved the flavor but thought that the Cambazola slightly overpowered the beef.

M A R C H 4-M A R C H 10, 2009

Remember, the best person to answer your questions is you. You must learn to think – and to think in many different ways. Read books on speaking and writing such as Spea k like Churchill, and Sta nd like Lincoln and Influencer . These books will teach you the skills and science of communication. The people you see on TV are not born with it – they worked at it – tirelessly. Because they did, they enjoy the benefits of living the life of their dreams.The ability to communicate well could be the single most important skill you ever develop. At your next social event or party, start up a conversation with a stranger—who upon first impression you would probably not interact— someone who may perhaps seem from a completely opposite world. Do it – initiate the

conversation - ask questions and listen. Let them talk. Make it a game. You never know with whom you might be speaking. On a recent flight to Arizona I struck up a conversation with the guy next to me and he happened to be one of the top TOP people at McDonald’s. One conversation could change your life. Understand this: unless you alter course, your life and situation will not change. Nothing and no one can do it for you. Where you are 5-10 years from now will depend on the people you speak with and the education you give yourself. Take action, decide to be a true human being and strengthen not only your body through exercise and nutrition, but your spirit and mind through education and social interaction.

We started our meal with another Thursday special, the clams, mussels and shrimp appetizer ($14). Our waitress dissuaded us from thinking that it was enough to eat as an entrée but, the dish would have been more than enough to satisfy. It was loaded with clams, mussels and tiny bay shrimp, steamed and smoked in beer, baby fennel, Asian chilies, and house-made bacon. We enjoyed dipping Sola’s delicious breads in the sauce but it did have a beer-bitter aftertaste. The artichoke appetizer ($8 ) came with four lightly floured and fried artichokes and two dipping sauces: soy-based and cream and truffle. The latter was the clear winner. We could have stopped there but we were intrigued by the dessert special: a taffy apple tart in black pepper cider sauce with bacon brittle ice cream. All we can say is YUM. The tart was served warm with flavorful apples and a crisp yet flaky crust. The bacon brittle ice cream contained chunks of bacon with bacon-flavored curly crisps on top. While we thought that Thursday night burger promotion would be a value meal, our tab came to almost $100 W W W. S T R E E T W I S E . O R G

including tax, tip and no cocktails. The price didn’t seem to bother other patrons. The room was packed. Everyone seemed to be having a great time. Note: The winner of the South Beach Food & Wine Festival Burger Bash was former Top Chef contestant Spike Mendelsohn, chef of Good Stuff Eatery in Washington DC.

calendar for March 4-March 14 IRISH AMERICAN HERITAGE CENTER

Shannon Rover

Friday, March 6 34th Annual Forever Green- billed as Chicago’s largest St. Patrick’s Day charity party by its sponsor, the Young Irish Fellowship Club. 5 to 10 p.m. in the Grand Ballroom of Navy Pier. Tickets $40 in advance, $45 at the door, include beer, wine and non-alcoholic drinks. Headliners include the Larkin and Moran Brothers, two sets of brothers who have been playing original and traditional Irish tunes in Chicago since 1995. Also in the lineup are the Weber Band and the Chancey Brothers, a tribute to the Clancy Brothers and Tommy Makem, as well as the Wolf Tones, Christy Moore and the Saw Doctors. More information at 312.902.1943 or www.youngirish.com.

Saturday, March 7 Thursday, March 5 Pakistan: Challenges, Threats, and Opportunities. Join host John Callaway—host of the 2008 Emmynominated program Front & Center with John Callaway—for the discussion at 5 p.m. associate member reception, 6 p.m. program/live webcast. 610 N. Fairbanks Court, second floor. For more information call 312.587.0234, or visit www.pritzkermilitarylibrary.org. Free.

Mando Magnificat-Mike Marshall & The Big Trio, Sam Bush, Caterina Lichtenberg, Don Stiernberg, and the Milwaukee Mandolin Orchestra gather to celebrate the enduring and brilliant versatility of this small but mighty instrument, the mandolin. Virtuosic flight into classical, jazz, new acoustic, Americana, blues, and orchestral music come together in this unique collaboration. Mirko Schrader joins on guitar. Pick-Staiger Concert Hall, 50 Arts Circle Drive, Evanston.. For tickets visit. www.pickstaiger.org or

Local romantic gift spots Pour Vous The only way to take the edge off an icy commute is with a hot bath. One of our newer favorites on the Division strip, this Wicker Park bath and body shop has unique soaps and other bath products beautifully packaged for a gift she is sure to use tonight. Aroma Workshop This Lincoln Park boutique allows you to design your own scented perfumes and bath products. A perfect alternative for those sensitive to some smells, but who need a little aromatherapy for cold winter days. Vosges Haut-Chocolat Do not be intimidated by the wild chocolate pairings at this shop located on Michigan Avenue as well as Lincoln Park. Our favorite gift is the red flaming heart, which is made of Mexican ancho & chipotle chillies, Ceylon cinnamon and dark chocolate. A surprising, but delicious combination. Spa Soak One of our favorite spas in Bucktown, Spa Soak has a package that includes a facial and massage and facial for two titled, “I love you, you love me.” By Julie Cameron StreetWise Contributor

Just because Valentine’s Day has come and gone doesn’t mean that Chicago’s fantastic chocolate shops stopped making delectable delicacies. Bring your friends and family to these top-notch local chocolateries.

Isabella Finally, if you love lingerie, Isabella features beautiful robes, lingerie, and nightgowns in a lovely and feminine assortment. Complement the gift with our favorite bodycare by Kai. The products smell like fresh tulips on a warm spring day. W W W. S T R E E T W I S E . O R G

call 847.467.4000. 7:30 p.m. Tickets $16.

Sunday, March 8 Northwest Side Irish Friends and Family St. Patrick’s Day Parade- steps off 11 a.m. from Norwood Park Dodge, 6633 W. Raven. Grand marshal is John McDonough, president of the Chicago Blackhawks; Humanitarian of the Year is Cheryl Johnson, International Brotherhood of Teamsters Vice President and Director of its Human Rights Commission. After party, 12:30 p.m. at Moretti’s, 6727 N. Olmstead.

Friday, March 13 Irish Dance Chicago-a showcase of the city’s best dancers on one stage, 7 p.m. Irish-American Heritage Center, 4626 N. Knox Ave., Chicago. Tickets are $10 for adults; children under 12 admitted free with a paying adult. For more information call, 773.282.7035 or visit www.irish-american.org.

Saturday, March 14 Dyeing the Chicago River-10:45 a.m. Best viewing is from the upper levels of bridges at Michigan Avenue or Columbus Drive. Chicago Journeymen Plumbers Local Union 130, sponsor of the parade since 1957, has turned the river as green as the Emerald Isle for over 40 years. The green comes from environmentally safe orange dye typically used to detect pipes leaking into the river. The orange dye “converts” to green: a subtle reference to Protestant Orangemen and historic repression of Irish Catholics in the old country. Other cities have tried to duplicate the effect but none have succeeded. “We believe that is where the leprechaun comes in,” Plumbers Union officials say. St. Patrick’s Day Parade steps off at noon from Balbo and Columbus and proceeds past the reviewing stand at Buckingham Fountain to Monroe Street. The parade is always the Saturday before the actual March 17 St. Patrick’s Day, to allow families to participate without taking their children out of school. Rain or snow, the parade goes on; you can watch on ABC7 or WGN Channel 9. St. Patrick’s Post-parade Festival, 1 p.m. to midnight, Irish-American Heritage Center. Traditional and contemporary Irish music, dance, food and children’s activities. Live entertainment by Chicago Irish music groups and performers from Ireland. Irish gifts, baked goods, books and jewelry. Lineup includes: 1 p.m. Tim O’Shea and Stephen Carroll; 3 p.m. Shannon Rovers; 4 p.m. Dooley Brothers; 7 p.m. O’Sullivan Brothers; 10 p.m. David Dunne and Blackwater. Also, in the Social Center, Anish at 5 p.m.; Mulligan Stew at 7 p.m. and an open ceili (dance party) at 9 p.m. with the Joe Shannon Band. Performing in the auditorium will be the Mullane Healy O’Brien Irish Dance Academy at 3 p.m.; Spriorad Damhsa at 4 p.m.; Trinity Irish Dancers at 5 p.m. and the Mulhern School of Irish Dance at 6 p.m. There will be a sing-song with Irish Heritage Singers at 6 p.m. Tickets are $15 for adults, or $12 through March 13; children 12 and under free with paying adult.

M A R C H 4-M A R C H 10, 2009

St. Patrick’s Day Special Section

By Noleen Kelly Power StreetWise Contributor Springtime in Chicago has arrived at last! The days are finally stretching, but few days stretch the span of St. Patrick's Day in this city. For much of this month you'll find innumerable opportunities to immerse yourself in all things Irish. If you're in the market to experience some unparalleled Irish music, whether traditional or modern, you're in the right town. "Irish Americans have a rich history in Chicago," says Megan McDonald, executive director of the Mayor's Office of Special Events. "Irish music plays a role in the city's music scene not only in March during the parades for St. Patrick's Day, but year round." The Irish American Heritage Center (4626 N Knox Ave.) on the Northwest side, is a hubbub of activity this time of year. Don't miss David Dunne & Blackwater, a trio of old-timers with a cult following. Using guitar, fiddles and

M A R C H 4-M A R C H 10, 2009

IRISH AMERICAN HERITAGE CENTER

Shannon Rovers in downtown parade on Columbus Drive

drums, they fuse Irish folk and contemporary music in a style all their own. Another winner is Mulligan Stew, a band that raises the rafters wherever they roam. With the bodhran, (a flat wood-and-goat skin drum played with a doubleheaded stick) bones, banjo and every instrument imaginable, expect a knockyour socks off performance! The city will be alive with top-notch music on the day of the Downtown parade. Brendan McKinney, owner of Chief O'Neill's Pub (3471 N Elston, 60618) invites one and all to "come to the pub you've been practicing for, for the craic and the ceol." The fun and the music respectively, as we'd say in Gaelic.The bar is named after Chicago Police Chief Francis O'Neill, who as an immigrant in the early 1900's dedicated himself to the preservation of otherwise unrecorded Irish music. Needless to say, music is central to this spot. One of their best bets this year is Baal Tine. Pronounced “Ball-tin-uh,” this fivesome will have your feet tapping to rumbling Celtic instrumentals. Its flute player, Noel Rice, is founder and dean of the Academy of Irish Music of Chicago, whose students have won honors around the world. The Abbey Pub (3420 W. Grace St.) hosts its annual St. Patrick's Day Bash to coincide with the parade. Fonn Mor will treat the crowd to rollicking reels and jigs set to a percussive base.Think traditional music with an Afro-Celtic infusion. Also on the cards are The McCabes - one of America's best loved bands-and Larry Nugent. Nugent is an Irish transplant living in Chicago. He is a master whistle player and flautist, with chart-topping trad music albums under his belt. Irish dancing will add to the festivities. Kick off is at 1 p.m., with tickets costing $10. The South Side parade starts Sunday March 15 at noon from 104th and Western. Many bars will be hosting live Irish musical offerings on the days surrounding. Corrigans (3047 W 111th St,) will have the Larkin and Moran Brothers on March 12 at 9 p.m.This is the perfect opportunity to see a concert-style band in an intimate setting. If you are out for the parade, be sure to stop by the Cork & Kerry (10614 S. Western Ave.). Maggie Speaks, the ever-popular cover band, will be blasting out hits from the 50's to the 90's. "The selection of music they play is always diverseeven I'm a fan," says day manager and live music eschewer Devra Brenn. If you fancy leaving half of the South Side parade crowd and joining the other half, 115 Bourbon Street (3359 W 115th St, 60803) has several notable cover bands on the menu. Wedding Banned may just top the bill. You might find yourself plucked from the crowd and paired “matchmaker-style” with the mate of your dreams! All set to funny and fantastic renditions of rock and pop classics. Regardless of where you are, the infamous Shannon Rovers will be making their rounds-like Santa dressed in a kilt! This louder than life troupe of musicians grace what seems to be every bar in Chicago with a short but memorable visit. You'll know they've arrived when their bagpipes take over beating for your heart. The options are limitless for shaking your shillelagh this year in Chicago.With the City and South Side parades falling on the same weekend, you might want to alternate between green beer and green tea. But that wouldn't be very Irish of you now, would it? Slainte!

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

StreetWise Feature Studio Gang Architects designed the SOS Children’s Villages Lavezzorio Community Center with openings that connect the Center to the surrounding neighborhood and a strata wall that allowed the use of donated, recycled materials.

15th Annual

Neighborhood Development Awards Architects, community and government leaders, businesses and foundations celebrate efforts to keep Chicago neighborhoods vibrant and strong

Rami Nashashabi, founder and executive director of the Inner-City Muslim Action Network (IMAN) stands in front of a mural proclaiming "in the name of God the most gracious, the most merciful" on the side of its headquarters at 2744 W. 63rd St. Nashashabi won the new Norman Bobins Leadership Award from the Chicago Neighborhood Development Awards for his leadership and innovative approach to service. ( Suzanne Hanney photo)

By Suzanne Hanney Editor-in-Chief ami Nashashibi spent his first 18 years in Europe and the Middle East, but once he landed on the Southwest Side of Chicago, Islamic values of brotherhood, service, charity and faith helped him become a Chicago Neighborhood Development Award (CNDA) winner. Nashashibi, who is founder/executive director of the Inner-City Muslim Action Network (IMAN), received the Norman Bobins Leadership Award, one of 10 CNDAs presented February 9 at the Hyatt Regency. LaSalle Bank created the Bobins Award last year to honor those with the “leadership, innovation and long-term commitment to Chicago communities” embodied in Bobins, its retired CEO who still serves on the Chicago Board of Education. The 30-something Nashashibi first settled in Chicago as a student at St. Xavier and then DePaul universities. A summer job running a youth program for the Southwest Youth Collaborative put him in touch with both Arab and AfricanAmerican Muslims in the diverse working class Chicago Lawn neighborhood, where he founded IMAN, 2744 W. 63rd St., in 1997. Starting with youth programs, Nashashibi expanded IMAN to direct family intervention, arts and culture, food distribution, health clinics and job placement services. Using volunteer Muslim doctors from throughout Chicago, the free clinics offer complete physicals -- exams, blood tests, specialist referrals – to 35 people weekly. A variety of free computer classes are also offered weekly in Spanish and English. Over 65 percent of participants in both the clin-

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

ics and computer classes are non-Muslim, Nashashibi said, which makes IMAN a “cultural bridge institution.” Nashashibi also points to IMAN’s Ta kin’ it to the Streets Festiva l, held every other year in Marquette Park, which most recently drew 10,000 people for speeches by civic leaders and artists’ performances. Also, the Community Café offers jazz and hip-hop in family-friendly environment: $5 at the Parkway Ballroom on South King Drive. A Koran verse to “stand up for justice, even if it means going against yourself and your family, be they rich or poor” inspired his proudest work. Along with the Chicago Coalition for the Homeless, Organization of the NorthEast and Target Area Development, IMAN led the Developing Justice Coalition, which successfully pushed for Illinois legislation that offered alternatives to prison for low-level, nonviolent drug offenders. Created by LISC/Chicago, CNDA is the nation’s largest program honoring community leaders, architects, businesses, government and community organizations and foundations that make neighborhoods vibrant. Other 2009 winners include : The Cara Program, winner of The Chicago Community Trust’s Outstanding Community Strategy of the Year for its success in addressing the challenges of homelessness and barriers of employment such as incarceration in the Quad Communities. Cara’s Cleanslate workers wear fluorescent green uniforms as they rid streets of litter and graffiti – and gain job experience. Cara’s Center for Working Families provides one-on-one counseling on careers, finances and benefits. Through Cara’s Career Pathways Initiative, in partnership with the University of Chicago and

M A R C H 4-M A R C H 10, 2009

Available at www.streetwise.org

Above: Marca Bristo of Access Living and John Catlin of LCM Architects, LLC (foreground) accept the Second Place Richard H. Driehaus Foundation Award for Architectural Excellence in Community Design for the new Access Living Headquarters at the 15th Annual Chicago Neighborhood Development Awards. Behind them are Richard H. Driehaus and Richard Lehner of LCM Architects.

Mayor’s Office of Workforce Development, 97 neighborhood residents have found permanent jobs at the University in the past year. SOS Children’s Villages Lavezzorio Community Center, winner of the Richard H. Driehaus Foundation Award for Outstanding Non-Profit Neighborhood Real Estate Project. SOS Children’s Villages has 12 homes and four duplexes on 76th Street for children without parental care and for families in difficult situations; the Lavezzorio center opens the agency to the surrounding AuburnGresham neighborhood. Besides space for administration, case management and counseling, the center accommodates educational, social and recreational activities, including child care, after school care, a computer lab and job training for foster children, their biological and foster families and local residents. Ehresman Management for the Lawndale Restoration Project, winner of the Polk Bros. Foundation Affordable Housing Rental Housing Preservation Award. After code violations and foreclosure forced the breakup of the city’s largest privately owned subsidized apartment project on the West Side, Ehresman worked with all stakeholders – government agencies, funders, community members – to preserve 153 units of affordable rentals in five buildings. The firm worked quickly and cost-effectively, yet also met with local residents and hired them where possible. DL3 Realty, LP, for the Roseland Medical Center, winners of the Outstanding For-Profit Neighborhood Real Estate Project Award. The 27,000 square-foot medical office building catalyzed its neighborhood. Developed across the street from Roseland Community Hospital – the only hospital within a five-mile radius -- there is ground floor retail and outpatient care for the hospital as well as Chicago Family Health, a nonprofit health care provider; and Fresenius Medical Care, the world’s largest provider of outpatient dialysis. United Neighborhood Organization (UNO), a Special Recognition award for its grassroots work in promoting citizenship for 80,000 people. UNO also works in voter registration, housing, job training and education. In the 1980s, UNO organized thousands of people around Local School

M A R C H 4-M A R C H 10, 2009

Councils and now it operates eight charter schools to relieve overcrowding. Valerie Jarrett, 2009 Friend of the Neighborhoods, former City of Chicago attorney, deputy chief of staff, Commissioner of Planning and Development, chairman of the Chicago Transit Authority and CEO of the Habitat Company, was instrumental in Barack Obama’s campaign for president. She is now senior advisor and assistant to the President for intergovernmental relations and public liaison.

The Richard H. Driehaus Foundation Awards for Architectural Excellence in Community Design First Place ($15,000) to Studio Gang Architects for SOS Children’s Villages Lavezzorio Community Center. Multiple uses mean the building can serve both its residents and the surrounding community. The wide lobby stairs can be classroom seating or an impromptu stage; the second floor community room is a classroom, exercise room and meeting space. The “strata wall” at the entry allowed the building to use donated, recycled supplies without compromising structural or aesthetic integrity, which also reduced cost. Second Place ($3,000) to LCM Architects, LLC for the headquarters of Access Living, an organization that advocates for rights of disabled people. “We began by meeting with people with many kinds of disabilities to identify the challenges each faces when using commercial buildings, then worked to address these challenges creatively and cost-effectively,” said John Catlin and Richard Lehner, partners. A model of universal design —accessible to all—its elevators are wide enough for wheelchairs, its lighting helpful to those with limited vision. Third Place ($2,000) to Kennedy King Architects, LLC for the new, 40-acre Kennedy King College at 63rd and Halsted. A partnership of Johnson & Lee Ltd and VOA Associates Inc., the building brings Englewood the treelined quadrangle of a traditional American university along with athletic facilities, a library, culinary school, bookstore, theater, TV and radio studios, graphic services and day care center open to the public, as well as student-run Sikia Restaurant, the first full-service ea tery in the neighborhood in decades. W W W. S T R E E T W I S E . O R G

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: I also check and update my Myspace and Facebook a lot, mostly at work. Am I addicted? -Electro Spaz

Dear Spaz: You are kind of vague about how many hours you are on Facebook or Myspace, so I can’t accurately diagnose your “addictiveness.” Listen--you do not want to be looking for a job in this market, so my advice is to stop everything that you are doing and get back to work. Plus, no one wants to log onto Facebook when they’re bored to read about how bored you are. I know computers can be distracting, trust me. I’m considering a class-action lawsuit against the Spider Solitaire people. (For all those years I’ve lost in pursuit of that cheesy fireworks

display when I beat it on the easiest setting). While I do feel your “pain” and appreciate you taking the time to write to me, you should probably look like you’re actually doing something productive. Dear Eugene: It seems that you are quite a connoisseur of snacks. Is snacking a passion of yours? -Curious Jake

Dear Curious: How kind of you to ask. Yes, snacking is my art. You know how really rich people have wine cellars? In my basement I have a temperature-controlled snack cellar. I’m really excited because the ’74 Twinkies are peaking right now, so I’m going to have some really posh tastings coming up. I’ll keep you posted.

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

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

M A R C H 4-M A R C H 10, 2009

Entrepreneur of the Week:

Rebuilding with StreetWise By Ben Cook

it’s him showing his support for me and what I’m trying to do with my f you have walked by the situation.” While Martin has made his share Starbucks at North Avenue and Wells in the morning, you might of regrettable choices in the past, have recognized a familiar face. he knows where to invest his enerSamuel Martin is back selling gy to create a better future: his chilStreetWise every weekday morning dren. Martin has three children, two of whom are in college. from 6 a.m. to noon. His oldest daughter is currently For one year he was working in Portage, Indiana at a steel mill. He pursuing a medical degree on a full scholarship, was offered the job Martin’s Poem: although Martin by a man who had I walked into the treatment likes to send her seen him selling center with a problem money every StreetWise. The man was so impressed I thought was beyond solving month to help with day-to-day with Martin’s work So I got down on my knees her and prayed expenses. He’s so ethic he offered him And asked God to help me excited with the a job on the spot. prospect of a docU n fo r t u n a t e l y, with my state since that moment After being there for a while tor in the family that he’s happy to conof good fortune, I began to feel like a child Martin’s job has Living and learning things I tribute what he can. With a world-worn been downsized never knew but enthusiastic due to the dour My self-esteem suddenly voice he said, economic trends grew “They’re teenagers. that dominate curI always considered myself I don’t want them rent headlines. real slick to make the same Martin finds himself But I dropped the ‘L’ and mistakes that I did. I in a bittersweet realized I was sick didn’t go to cols i t u a t i o n — h e ’s In the beginning I felt shame lege—I want to be happy that he gets to see the men and But I’ve come to realize my the dumbest Martin there is.” women he knew for life is not a game When he’s not so many years in Old Because today my life is on selling his magaTown every mornthe right track ing, but he, like so And I know I’m never going zines or spending time with his family, many others, lost his back. Martin gives back to steady professional those who helped him during darkemployment. Luckily for Martin, he knew what er times by doing inspirational to do to keep positive momentum speaking engagements for a in his life—make a trip to substance abuse program. A poem StreetWise rather than a trip to the he wrote for one such engagement unemployment line. His positive is printed in the green box above. To all of his customers, Martin attitude and sociable demeanor have already paid off: yet another would like to say thank you and customer has given him a part-time God bless you. He would also like to extend job in the afternoons. Martin explains, “He said that he special thanks to the employees of was really proud of me for working the Starbucks near his location. He as hard as I was, and he wanted me said, “they are some of the kindest, to stay in that employment mind- most generous people I know.” set—it’s not really a hand out but

Meet: Samuel Martin

StreetWise staff

M A R C H 4-M A R C H 10, 2009

Inspirational speaker

Helps support his daughter toward her medical degree

Look for the Badge! Please purchase your copy of StreetWise from badged vendors only. For questions or comments regarding our vendor force please contact Greg Pritchett at (312) 829-2526 or at gpritchett14@yahoo.com

Where the money goes... Vendors buy StreetWise for 75 cents and the remaining $1.25 goes directly to the licensed StreetWise vendor.

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