.
From my "Don't Get Me Started" files:
 | ||||
| Kemone's Sister (from the Evanston ArtSkills 2000 project) |
Tuesday, December 20, 2011
Women need to write their own stories
“The most common way people give up
Monday, November 14, 2011
Rotary Club of Evanston's Holiday Benefit December 8
This in from the Rotary Club of Evanston...
Update/November 29: Donate a Silent Auction Item for Rotary: Club members are busy preparing for our annual Holiday Benefit. Rotarians are currently soliciting items from local merchants for the silent and live auctions – highlights of this popular event. Please consider donating a product or service – proceeds benefit Evanston-based charitable projects. For more information, visit www.evanstonrotary.org or call Maggie Noonan at 847-328-4400.
.................................................................................................................................................................
The Rotary Club of Evanston cordially invites you to its Annual
HOLIDAY BENEFIT
In support of our Charitable Fund
Featuring
Open Bar and exquisite Dinner
Live and Silent Auctions
Live Music - ETHS Jazz Ensemble
Photography - Genie Lemieux
When: Thursday, December 8, 2011
Where: The Hilton Orrington/Evanston
The Grand Ballroom
1710 Orrington Avenue, Evanston
FREE valet parking available
Program
6:00 p.m.
Cocktails & Hors D’oeuvres
Refreshments & Lively Conversation
Silent Auction Bidding
7:00 p.m.
Buffet Dinner & Live Auction
Exciting Auction Items include
Holiday gifts, Wines, Restaurant Gift Certificates, Vacation Packages to Paris, Sonoma, Las Vegas, Alaska, Orlando, and more… Golf trips to St. Andrews and the Masters Tournament
And so much more…
Ticket Price: $75 prior to December 5, $80 at the door
(purchase 4 or more tickets for $70 each prior to December 5th)
Interested in sponsoring a table? (1 Rotarian plus 7 guests) $550
TO MAKE RESERVATIONS:
(Please reserve by December 5)
Contact Ada Kahn (847) 328-4512
adapkahn@aol.com
Not required, but replying via Facebook would be nice too.
Make checks payable to:
Rotary Club of Evanston Charitable Fund
Checks can be brought to any regular Thursday meeting (starting at noon at North Shore Retirement Hotel) or mailed to:
Rotary Club of Evanston
P.O.Box 84
Evanston, IL 60204
ATTN: Holiday Party
>> About Evanston Rotary: Founded in 1920, the Rotary Club of Evanston provides service to the community via hands-on volunteer projects and fundraising to help worthy causes. It has raised hundreds of thousands of dollars for not-for-profit organizations, helping Evanston cope with pressing issues ranging from HIV/AIDS and literacy to homelessness and poverty.
The club also provides scholarships, supports international aid projects and maintains the Friendship
Garden in Evanston’s Ladd Arboretum for public use.
Local Rotarians are part of a global network of more than 1 million Rotarians who work together in
providing local, national and international service projects. Since the 1980s, Rotary International has
played a major role as a partner in worldwide polio eradication efforts. The organization’s global
headquarters are in Evanston.
The club’s weekly luncheon meeting is held Thursdays from 12 to 1:15 p.m. at the North Shore Hotel. To learn more about becoming a member, visit www.evanstonrotary.org.
Pictures above from last year's Holiday Benefit produced courtesy of Genie Lemieux.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Karen here: In the name of full disclosure, Joel and I are Rotarians.
Update/November 29: Donate a Silent Auction Item for Rotary: Club members are busy preparing for our annual Holiday Benefit. Rotarians are currently soliciting items from local merchants for the silent and live auctions – highlights of this popular event. Please consider donating a product or service – proceeds benefit Evanston-based charitable projects. For more information, visit www.evanstonrotary.org or call Maggie Noonan at 847-328-4400.
.................................................................................................................................................................
HOLIDAY BENEFIT
In support of our Charitable Fund
Featuring
Open Bar and exquisite Dinner
Live and Silent Auctions
Live Music - ETHS Jazz Ensemble
Photography - Genie Lemieux
When: Thursday, December 8, 2011
Where: The Hilton Orrington/Evanston
The Grand Ballroom
1710 Orrington Avenue, Evanston
FREE valet parking available
Program
6:00 p.m.
Cocktails & Hors D’oeuvres
Refreshments & Lively Conversation
Silent Auction Bidding
7:00 p.m.
Buffet Dinner & Live Auction
Exciting Auction Items include
Holiday gifts, Wines, Restaurant Gift Certificates, Vacation Packages to Paris, Sonoma, Las Vegas, Alaska, Orlando, and more… Golf trips to St. Andrews and the Masters Tournament
And so much more…
Ticket Price: $75 prior to December 5, $80 at the door
(purchase 4 or more tickets for $70 each prior to December 5th)
Interested in sponsoring a table? (1 Rotarian plus 7 guests) $550
TO MAKE RESERVATIONS:
(Please reserve by December 5)
Contact Ada Kahn (847) 328-4512
adapkahn@aol.com
Not required, but replying via Facebook would be nice too.
Make checks payable to:
Rotary Club of Evanston Charitable Fund
Checks can be brought to any regular Thursday meeting (starting at noon at North Shore Retirement Hotel) or mailed to:
Rotary Club of Evanston
P.O.Box 84
Evanston, IL 60204
ATTN: Holiday Party
>> About Evanston Rotary: Founded in 1920, the Rotary Club of Evanston provides service to the community via hands-on volunteer projects and fundraising to help worthy causes. It has raised hundreds of thousands of dollars for not-for-profit organizations, helping Evanston cope with pressing issues ranging from HIV/AIDS and literacy to homelessness and poverty.
The club also provides scholarships, supports international aid projects and maintains the Friendship
Garden in Evanston’s Ladd Arboretum for public use.
Local Rotarians are part of a global network of more than 1 million Rotarians who work together in
providing local, national and international service projects. Since the 1980s, Rotary International has
played a major role as a partner in worldwide polio eradication efforts. The organization’s global
headquarters are in Evanston.
The club’s weekly luncheon meeting is held Thursdays from 12 to 1:15 p.m. at the North Shore Hotel. To learn more about becoming a member, visit www.evanstonrotary.org.
Pictures above from last year's Holiday Benefit produced courtesy of Genie Lemieux.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Karen here: In the name of full disclosure, Joel and I are Rotarians.
.
Friday, October 14, 2011
What are your favorite Evanston150 ideas?
This just snagged from Evanston150's detailed list of the top 100 ideas being voted on this weekend...
TOP 100 IDEAS FOR PUBLIC VOTE OCT. 15 & 16
1. HOST INTERNATIONAL THEATER, FILM, HUMANITIES FESTIVALS
2. ORGANIZE SHAKESPEARE SUMMER FESTIVAL FROM STAGE TO SHOPS
Involve all of Evanston in a Shakespearean summer festival, not just on stage, but
everywhere: shops, public buildings, events, all summer long, with food, costumes,
poetry, fencing- the works.
3. BUILD AN OUTDOOR AMPHITHEATER FOR PERFORMANCE/CONCERTS
4. RESTORE FIRST NIGHT NEW YEAR’S EVE CELEBRATION
First Night is a community wide effort, providing free entertainment for families on New
Year’s Eve, alcohol free.
5. BUILD ALL-INCLUSIVE ARTS AND CULTURAL CENTER
Arts and Cultural Center, possibly housing performance space, space for workshops and
classes, kitchens for catering and cooking classes, spaces for producing ceramics,
metalworking, sculpture, photography, design, acting, dance, music, weaving, writing,
etc.
6. PLACE LARGE, TACTILE SCULPTURES THROUGHOUT EVANSTON
Beautiful and climbable. Sculpture integrated along walking/biking paths; gardens/parks
throughout Evanston
7. CREATE ADVOCACY GROUP FOR GREEN BUILDING SOLUTIONS
A community wide resource directed toward improving Evanston’s built environment by
advocating for better and more relevant building solutions: greener, energy efficient,
aesthetically pleasing.
8. ESTABLISH CULTURAL CENTER FOR ALL ETHNICITIES/RACES
Promote better understanding and awareness of others in our diverse society through
educational and recreational activities, an exhibit space, and lecture hall.
9. DEVELOP WORLD-CLASS MUSIC MUSEUM/INSTITUTE
Music institute celebrating all music genres with performance, teaching, exhibit space.
10. CONSOLIDATE CITY AND TOWNSHIP GOVERNMENTS
The city of Evanston and township of Evanston are two separate, but geographically
identical, bodies governed by the same individuals. Under this proposal, Evanstonians
would eliminate a layer of government and save money by eliminating redundancy.
11. INTEGRATE YOUTH INTO CITY-WIDE GOVERNMENT
A separate youth government would be formed along existing ward lines. One
representative from this group would be chosen to fill a newly created seat on the City
Council. Steering/planning committees for community activities would have youth
membership, broadly representing various groups in the community.
12. CREATE INTEGRATED COMMUNITY CALENDAR/RESOURCES DATABASE/ PHONE APP
This integrated communication system would include civic, cultural, charitable,
educational, and recreational information. Northwestern programming would be
accessible, as would information about local venues and businesses. Content would be
interactive: for example, a map of parks might show basketball courts, drinking
fountains, and playgrounds; a museum might offer a preview of its collections. QR codes
would be added to city paper communications to link citizens to the database. An
Evanston-specific app could be developed for Smartphones. A new communication
office, headed by a Chief Information Officer, might be created for effective management
of these centralized resources.
13. AFFORDABLE HOUSING FOR MIDDLE-INCOME RESIDENTS
Reference the Highland Park Illinois Community Land Trust.
14. CREATE A CENTRALIZED HOMELESS SERVICES FACILITY
Bring all the nonprofit groups, agencies, city government services, faith communities/
civic organizations that serve hungry/homeless together in one large, well-equipped
space. Space would provide housing, meals, job counseling, and practical skills toward
independent living. Training could include traditional skills as well as integrating urban
farm skills to apply towards experience in small-scale organic farming, aquaculture,
greenhouse management, seedling production, marketing, and community outreach. This
space should include an overnight shelter that provides at least 40-50 guests, a safe place
to sleep, shower, and do laundry with a part of the shelter set aside for homeless youth.
15. ESTABLISH DENTAL CLINIC FOR LOW-INCOME FAMILIES
16. CONSOLIDATE SCHOOL DISTRICTS 65 AND 202
Consolidate Districts 65 and 202 into one school district to increase the continuity of the
curriculum and the accountability in the schooling of our children. It should also bring
financial accountability and savings; leveling pay scales and administrative overhead.
17. INSTITUTE A COMMUNITY FINANCIAL LITERACY CAMPAIGN
Develop a long-term, integrated, community-wide commitment to ensuring universal
financial literacy, through K-12 curriculum, college-level programs, and afterschool and
adult programs. Partner with local banks/life training – how to apply for jobs, how to
write checks etc.
18. ESTABLISH YEAR-ROUND SCHOOL SCHEDULE
A year-round school schedule breaks up the long summer vacation over the course of the
entire year.
19. BILINGUAL EDUCATION FOR ALL SCHOOL CHILDREN
Every child in Evanston should speak a foreign language upon high school graduation.
Foreign language should be required in grade school for all children and a variety of
languages should be offered. A drop-in language immersion center should exist to
enhance and foster knowledge of foreign languages in our community.
20. MAKE D65/D202 TOP SCHOOL DISTRICTS IN U.S.
Utilize all of our resources and invest in successful education to enable D65 and D202 to
be recognized as top school districts in the country. We need Evanston public school
districts to research and implement best practices in education that propel them into the
nation’s top districts with the goal of 100% graduation from ETHS.
21. CREATE EVANSTON COMMUNITY COLLEGE
22. CREATE ARCHITECTURAL GATEWAY LINKING DOWNTOWN AND NORTHWESTERN
Developing a special space by erecting a dramatic architectural structure that links
downtown Evanston and the University will underscore physically the connection
between the city and the University. It will also serve as a permanent symbol of
Evanston’s pride in this renowned institution and the University’s pride in its host city.
23. STRENGTHEN COMMUNITY’S PARTNERSHIP WITH NORTHWESTERN UNIVERSITY
We seek a true, multi-faceted partnership between the community of Evanston and the
University. That partnership would draw on the strengths of each entity and involve
short-term and long-term initiatives planned for the mutual benefit of both Evanston and
its residents and the University and its community. Initiatives might include making NU
libraries accessible and free for Evanston residents, collaborating on cultural offerings,
and engaging NU in enhancing educational opportunities for Evanston students.
24. BURY ALL OVERHEAD UTILITY CABLES AND WIRES
Replace all overhead power and telephone lines and other cables and wires with
underground lines. Enacting this proposal would both enhance Evanston visually and
reduce instances of lost power and dangerous conditions when overhead lines are downed
during storms.
25. PROVIDE FREE WIRELESS INTERNET ACCESS THROUGHOUT EVANSTON
26. CREATE ONE OR MORE TECHNOLOGY CENTERS
These centers should include space for residents to access computers and printers, for an
Internet café and for classes on technology-related subjects, such as scanning,
keyboarding, media and the use of various devices. The centers can also serve as
locations for a summer technology camp.
27. ESTABLISH BRANCH LIBRARIES THROUGHOUT EVANSTON
Evanston currently has only one branch library, and that is available only part time. This
proposal seeks to increase the number of branch libraries, locate them throughout the
City, and keep them open longer hours in order to make library services and programs
more accessible to all Evanstonians. Among other things, the branches can then serve as
community resource centers, and reach out to engage everyone in literacy activities, for
instance, hosting One Book, One Community programs.
28. MAKE EVANSTON CRIME-FREE
All Evanstonians deserve to live in a safe environment, one free from violence and fear.
Gun violence, in particular, should not be tolerated in our community. This proposal
seeks to sensitize and educate citizens through increased violence prevention and
enhanced community policing programs. It supports hiring and deploying more police
officers at schools and in neighborhood satellite offices so that they can be more closely
involved in the fabric of the community, with a goal of reducing gang activity and aiming
to make Evanston crime free.
29. ESTABLISH BLOCK CLUB ACADEMY FOR IMPROVED COMMUNITY RELATIONS
Establish a Block Club Academy, with a structure specific to the needs of Evanston.
Build relationships by offering residents an opportunity to interact on a more personal
level with each other through inter-ward activities. Create an accessible, printable online
registry and map of existing neighborhood groups with contact information. Offer a
centralized, inclusive way for neighbors to communicate and learn.
Workshops could include:
-Meeting facilitation and communication
-Community standards (e.g. property standards, etc.)
-Organizing a Neighborhood Watch
-Creating community-building events across wards
30. FREE CITY BUS PASSES FOR EVANSTON STUDENTS
31. EXTEND BIKE / WALKING PATHS BETWEEN EVANSTON AND CHICAGO
Create continuous bike and walking paths connecting Evanston to Rogers Park and
Chicago.
32. TEACH ALL EVANSTON CHILDREN TO SWIM
All children in our community should be taught to swim for their health and safety.
33. CREATE A NIGHTLIFE DISTRICT
Encourage businesses to establish entertainment venues, for dancing, karaoke, comedy,
etc., by creating a designated district to draw tourists /residents, provide entertainment for
an adult population.
34. MAKE EVANSTON AN AWARD-WINNING WALKABLE CITY
A walkable city is committed to a walkable environment. This includes pedestrians
walking safely and easily, decent lighting, easy mobility, access and comfort.
35. BUILD WORLD-CLASS, ALL-SEASON RECREATIONAL/SPORTS COMPLEX
A state-of-the-art, green technology community recreational center, possibly housing a
leisure pool, a field house (with indoor courts for soccer, basketball, volleyball, etc.),
fitness center, suspended walking/running track, changing rooms, child-care area and
snack bar, racquetball courts, multi-purpose studios and party rooms, tot playground,
skate park, ice arena, NHL-sized ice rinks, and 50-meter Olympic-sized competition pool
and related amenities along with seating for spectators. Facility could offer/host sports
activities and clubs. (See www.recplexonline.com)
36. ESTABLISH COMMUNITY OUTDOOR POOL/WATER PARK
A state-of-the-art, green technology community pool offering Evanston residents an
outdoor facility with, for example, a 50-meter pool, a leisure pool with zero depth edge
and water slides; wading pool with tot slide; diving pool with two boards and two drop
slides; locker room facilities; concessions; party rentals; lessons in swimming and diving.
Pool could be surrounded by natural prairie/gardens.
37. INTRODUCE BEACH RESORT AMENITIES TO PORTION OF LAKEFRONT
Enhance a portion of Evanston Beachfront (Clark Street Beach as a suggested example)
to include fee based chaise lounges & umbrellas, a cafe, playground, and mini-golf
course.
38. CREATE A MARINA/HARBOR/BOARDWALK WITH RESTAURANTS
39. CREATE A PEDESTRIAN BIKEWAY ON OLD MAYFAIR RAIL SPUR
Secure right of way and convert unused railroad tracks of what remains of the old
“Mayfair Spur” line (used to ship coal and lumber) running from SW Evanston NE to
Lyons/Emerson and onward to Green Bay Road.
40. DEVELOP EVANSTON’S “SECOND COASTLINE” ALONG CANAL
Clean and enhance the canal waterway for recreation encouraging more hiking and
biking. (see Princeton’s canal, NJ)
41. ESTABLISH JAMES PARK RECREATIONAL HUB
Re-envision James Park: Include such things as steps on Mt. Trashmore to encourage
healthy climbing and install a Zip line/bungie, skate park, basketball courts. Establish
cross country ski trails.
42. BUILD A MINOR-LEAGUE BASEBALL STADIUM
43. BECOME ONE OF THE GREENEST CITIES IN THE U.S.
This broad and challenging initiative would focus on improving our environmental
ratings relative to other US cities. These ratings may include, but would not be limited to
greenhouse gas emissions, energy, land use, buildings, transport, water, waste, air quality
and environmental governance.
44. BECOME A CARBON-NEUTRAL CITY
Seattle has announced that it plans to go carbon-neutral by 2030:
www.worldchanging.com/archives/010987.html. In the pledge and attempt to become
carbon-neutral, we could become an inspiration and model for cities worldwide.
Achieving net zero carbon emissions would require balancing our carbon released with
an equivalent amount sequestered. Our actions would likely include dramatic changes,
specifically in transportation, energy production and efficiency, as well as setting aside
green space and planting trees for absorption of the carbon we did release.
45. PROMOTE RESPONSIBLE WATER USE & CONSERVATION
Installing rain gardens and green roofs would reduce the city’s heat island effect in the
summer, absorb storm water (preventing flooding), and filter runoff (keeping pollutants
out of our lake and water supply). Green roofs have the added benefit of providing
insulation for cold winters. Rain gardens planted with native vegetation need minimal
water and care, and require no chemical fertilizers or pesticides. (Chicago has been a
leader in green roofs: www.nytimes.com/2011/05/23/science/earth/23adaptation.html )
46. DEVELOP SELF-SUFFICIENT AND SUSTAINABLE ENERGY RESOURCES
We could begin to divest from fossil fuels; research and develop renewable energy
sources: e.g., wind farm on the lake, wave energy, biomass, and/or thorium-based nuclear
power. Also we could research and develop local energy sources around the city: e.g.,
geothermal energy, wind turbines on roofs, solar panels, and electric car infrastructure.
47. INCREASE ENERGY EFFICIENCY IN BUILDINGS
Residential, commercial and industrial buildings are the largest emitters of greenhouse
gases in Evanston, and exacerbate the "heat island effect" of the city in summer. We
could achieve massive reductions in our city’s CO2 emissions by aggressively retrofitting
all large public buildings for energy-efficiency, and strongly subsidize similar retrofits for
commercial and residential buildings. We could offer free home energy audits and classes
on how to reduce energy costs.
48. EXPAND RESIDENTIAL URBAN GARDENING AND COMPOSTING
Promote the cultivation and distribution of food by groups or individuals on private
and/or public property for personal consumption or distribution.
49. OFFER FREE COMMUNITY GARDENS, GREENHOUSES & COMPOSTING SITES
Establish one or more community gardens and greenhouses, as well as adjacent public
composting sites. Community gardens promote increased community engagement, help
the local environment, promote cardiovascular health and good nutrition, and foster new
friendships.
50. CREATE URBAN FARMS IN NEGLECTED SPACE
Like many urban communities, Evanston lacks sufficient local sources of affordable
organic foods. We produce locally only 3% of our food, and are dependent on food that
travels an average of 1500 miles. Urban agriculture is a proven method of successfully
addressing multiple problems, including inadequate food security, poor nutrition, and
excessive fossil fuel used in food production, processing, transport and refrigeration. This
urban farm could also provide educational opportunities and permanent jobs for our
community. ( thetalkingfarm.org , www.greensgrow.org )
51. CONVERT NEGLECTED SPACE TO NATIVE PRAIRIES
Converting unused space (empty parking, industrial or commercial lots) to native
prairies, wetlands and woodlands would help absorb storm water (thus reducing flooding
hazards), filter pollution (keeping it out of our lake and drinking water), and absorb
carbon (helping us offset our emissions). We would enjoy the peace and beauty of the
natural area, and could offer educational and cultural events, as does the North Park
Village Nature Center in Chicago.
52. INSTALL PERMEABLE PAVEMENT THROUGHOUT EVANSTON
This weave of pavement allows 80% of rainwater to filter through to the ground below. It
reduces flooding by absorbing storm water, saves city water by reducing the need to
water nearby trees and shrubs, and suffers far less deterioration (potholes) by expanding
and contracting with freezes and thaws. (Chicago has been a leader in this new
technology: www.nytimes.com/2011/05/23/science/earth/23adaptation.html )
53. CREATE LOW ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT LAKEFRONT ENTERTAINMENT VENUE
This idea incorporates an entertainment venue in a beautiful location with environmental
responsibility. “Low-impact” directs that there would be minimal negative environmental
impact in creating a place for concerts, plays or other forms of entertainment. Building a
low-impact venue would require attention to construction materials and methods, as well
as the livability and functionality of the venue. A low-impact venue would incorporate
environmentally-friendly building materials, blend with its surroundings so that it is an
integral and not overpowering part of the landscape, and be designed so as to maximize
functionality.
54. FOSTER GREATER COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT
Community activities on both the macro and micro level are an important part of bringing
together and honoring the people, cultures and neighborhoods of Evanston. These
activities would bring residents together by age, location and interest. Activities could
include, but are not limited to, block parties, Block Club Academies, collaborative
projects, program for seniors who live alone (YANA) and encouraging front porch use
with zoning incentives.
55. CREATE SUSTAINABLE, CO-HOUSING SPIRITUALLY-ORIENTED COMMUNITY CENTER
This unique community center is envisioned as a prototype of some of the most
sustainable urban living practices, and would include community space for meditation;
interfaith, community and cultural events; and the growing and sharing of food. See
www.enyadatta.com/proposal
56. INSTITUTE EVANSTON COMMUNITY DAY OF SERVICE
An encompassing day of helping others & helping our community, to be held annually on
a designated date (e.g., fourth Saturday of October). A diverse and action-oriented citizen
committee to plan, brainstorm, mobilize, publicize, & recognize members of our
Evanston community to volunteer (skills & resources). Evanstonians are rallied into a
single day of action to help change our community and foster community.
57. CREATE PHYSICAL HUB FOR NON-PROFIT ORGANIZATIONS
This would establish a centralized building for non-profit organizations that serve
Evanston, while utilizing strengths of each organization, reducing costs and increasing
opportunities. Many non-profit oganizations currently work together, but are limited by
funding, insufficient exchange of information, and geography. This group of non-profits
would develop cross-organizational services to increase their opportunities to receive
Federal, State, local, and foundation funding.
58. ESTABLISH PROGRAM TO REDEVELOP NEGLECTED NEIGHBORHOODS
Using the "Hope Community" model, work with local communities, converting
abandoned buildings into low-income housing and redesigning neglected neighborhoods
for long-term sustainability and human happiness. (Based on the Hope Community
program in Minneapolis, see www.hope-community.org)
59. ESTABLISH COMPREHENSIVE LOW-INCOME HEALTH & WELLNESS CLINIC (including Medical, Mental Health, & Dental)
60. IMPROVE APPEARANCE OF PUBLIC TRANSPORTATION FACILITIES
Improve the appearance of CTA/Metra facilities and surrounding areas with better
lighting, design and art. Add benches at bus stops, especially near seniors.
61. ESTABLISH A TRANSPORTATION LINK TO O’HARE AIRPORT
62. MAKE EVANSTON A TRULY BIKE-ORIENTED CITY
Rather than privileging the car and designing around its needs, we could design Evanston
around our needs for moderate exercise, efficient and enjoyable transportation, and clean
air, by privileging the pedestrian, bicycle, and public transportation instead. We would
establish new bike paths and trails, especially a new bike/walking loop around Evanston,
connecting the lakeshore with the canal; “borrow a bike” stations all over town; designate
some north-south and east-west streets car-free so that biking and walking is safer; and
add benches, water fountains, and shady trees along these routes.
63. ESTABLISH A WATER TAXI TO DOWNTOWN CHICAGO
64. ESTABLISH AN INTERFAITH PRAYER & MEDITATION CENTER
This prayer and meditation center would be a welcome place for individuals of all faiths
to convene in peaceful reflection. Elements of the center may include yoga, art, and
guided meditation.
65. TUITION-FREE COLLEGE EDUCATION FOR ALL EVANSTON GRADUATES
Like the “Kalamazoo Promise,” this program would provide scholarships to cover 100%
of tuition at any Illinois university for all Evanston public school graduates who attended
Evanston public schools from K-12. Kalamazoo has similar demographics to Evanston,
and these privately-funded promise-type programs nationwide have swiftly created
stronger communities, higher housing values and increased student achievement and
participation in college bound coursework. The long-term transformational goals are to
establish a prosperous community with a well-educated work force, bound by a strong
social fabric.
66. BECOME A TOURIST DESTINATION WITH VISITOR CENTER
There are many attractions, activities and programs in our community that attract visitors
to Evanston. With some coordination, those could be expanded upon, and visitors are
encouraged to spend several nights/week instead of a night. Make it easier for people to
have bed and breakfast lodging to add income and tax base. Create a centrally-located,
easily accessible visitor center promoting tourist companies in the area. Install street
directories to help tourists and visitors find their way
67. IMPROVE LOOK & SIGNAGE AT EVANSTON ENTRY POINTS
Introduce "Welcome to Evanston" in prominent entry points. Provide for better signage
and information (e.g. parking garages, transportation portals, library services, free lots,
etc.). Enhance the entry points into the city to be more welcoming.
68. BEAUTIFY CHICAGO AVENUE
Make Chicago Avenue more pedestrian-friendly, with more trees, flowers, benches, bike
lanes, and cafes. Encourage more small businesses to come.
69. PLANT 2013 TREES
70. EXTEND CHICAGO LAKEFRONT INTO EVANSTON
Create a continuous, accessible beach from Chicago to Evanston.
71. OFFER FREE SHUTTLE TO LOCAL/POPULAR DESTINATIONS
The system could incorporate commercial shuttle/trolley to circulate the various points of
interest and shopping districts of Evanston. People could jump on and off at any shopping
area or point of interest. This would enhance Evanston as a destination and would create
a greater "wow" factor for our visitors. Not only would the venues be a draw, it would
also be a fun, family-friendly activity.
72. ESTABLISH “EL SISTEMA” TRANSFORMING YOUTH LIVES THROUGH MUSIC
“El Sistema” is a 38 year old tested model of how a music program can change the life
trajectory of many thousands of a nation’s or community’s neediest children. Founded in
Venezuela, but now spread to 25 countries and to many cities in the U.S., the Sistema
curriculum relies heavily on the discipline and joy of ensemble performance, as well as
private instruction in skill development. Over 300,000 children in Venezuela participate.
Some of the world’s finest musicians have emerged through the “system.” El Sistema is
an inspiring example of positive and transforming child development through music.
73. CREATE EUROPEAN-STYLE TOWN SQUARE/PEDESTRIAN MALL
Town Squares in European cities are common, large inviting spaces where people meet,
stroll, shop, have coffee or drinks. The vacant lot on Davis Street and the unused bank
lanes are eyesores that could be part of a conversion to a grand style Spanish plaza.
74. CREATE DEMPSTER-DODGE COMMUNITY ENTERTAINMENT CENTER
Rehabilitate and rejuvenate the plaza and general area at Dempster and Dodge.
Restaurants, a Trader Joe's, a library branch, farmers market, an entertainment center,
more appealing stores that would draw people, art galleries. Fun things to do for all ages.
75. REDESIGN FOUNTAIN SQUARE AS PUBLIC GATHERING SPACE
Hold a design competition for Evanston designers for the purpose of making Fountain
Square a pedestrian friendly gathering/meeting place. Bring back the original Fountain
(now in the Rose Garden) as a central focus. Re-route traffic to make the square traffic
free. Plant garden area with shrubs and flowers. Shops and restaurants. Possible farmer’s
market. Create a real downtown focal point for relaxation as well as business.
76. CREATE SESQUICENTENNIAL PARK
A park with an attractive and inviting recreation capability at the downtown lakefront
area.
77. CREATE COMMERCIAL ART GALLERY DISTRICT-CORRIDOR
Artists working and studying in Evanston produce art in all media: painting, jewelry,
metal, ceramic, textile, print. A corridor of galleries would encourage art shopping and
would be a draw to Evanston business.
78. MAKE MAJOR PARK IMPROVEMENTS AND ADDITIONS
Ensure that every neighborhood has a quality park. Consider using recycled and green
technology to build more and better parks. Make sure all parks have great benches and
fountains.
79. KEEP LAKEFRONT COMMERCIAL FREE
80. CREATE A CRIB-TO-CAREER CHILDREN’S ZONE
Support children from the moment they arrive until they are launched as successful
citizens. Modeled after the “Harlem Children’s zone,” the zone would unify existing
social service agencies and educational institutions in Evanston to provide crib to career
services including counseling, mentoring, prenatal services, parenting classes, quality
childcare and preschool, great schools and skills training in underserved neighborhoods.
81. PROVIDE UNIVERSAL PRESCHOOL FOR ALL
Help eliminate the achievement gap by providing early childhood education to all
Evanston children.
82. BUILD A WINTER SPORTS COMPLEX
Rejuvenate Mt. Trashmore with rebuilt state-of-the-art sledding/toboggan runs (and
possibly bobsled). Ring perimeter of park with cross country ski trail and rink. Possibly
an ice rink, pro shop, concessions and a rope pull.
83. HOST AN ANNUAL LITERARY FESTIVAL
A festival of books: possibly at Northwestern and around Evanston, featuring Evanston
authors and including a Writing Festival in collaboration with Evanston Writers
Workshop, Medill, etc. Venues could be donated and revenue produced via a book fair
where exhibitors are charged for tables to sell books at. Festival would celebrate the city's
literary history and its future as a home of intellectual discussion and debate.
84. FREE BEACH ACCESS FOR EVANSTON RESIDENTS
85. BUILD A MARINA
Evanston's most significant asset is the lake. A marina off the Evanston shoreline could
be a tremendous economic asset to the community.
86. BUILD LAKEFRONT HOTEL/CONVENTION CENTER COMPLEX
Evanston’s lakefront is underutilized. Economic development at the lakefront would
bring jobs and city tax revenue as well as offset the ever-growing increases in property
taxes. Potential revenue-producing venues in this proposed lakefront build-out could
include: world class performing arts theatre, meeting and convention halls, boutique hotel
and restaurant with lakeside dining.
87. CREATE LAKEFRONT BOARDWALK WITH COMMERCIAL SPACES
Boardwalk ideas could include: nice new outdoor pavilion, a fun place for simple food,
ice cream and snacks (something really lacking on our lakefront), a comfortable area for
laying out a picnic, bike parking, nice restrooms, and more. Our lakefront is already
lovely; it's just not very people or visitor friendly. A place for people to walk along the
water, populated with various local vendors, both art and food. An architecturallystunning
boardwalk along the beach (similar to the High Line in New York City, see
www.thehighline.org ) - natural, beautifully landscaped, with places to sit and read or talk
or eat along the way, some cafes along the way, sculpture, water feature to walk through.
88. BUILD VOCATIONAL/TECHNICAL SCHOOL WITH REGIONAL EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES
Develop a vocational/ technical school that also includes regional employment placement
opportunities for students and graduates of the school. The purpose of the school would
be to develop vocational or technical skills for those wishing to pursue vocational or
technical jobs.
89. DEVELOP CO-OP TECHNICAL SCHOOL FOR UNDER-SERVED YOUTH
The Cooperative Technical school would serve a diverse population of underserved youth
by providing students the opportunity to integrate classroom study with actual experience
in their field of study. These experiences strengthen and enhance student's overall
competencies, increasing the possibility for attaining a successful and fulfilling position
in their chosen career upon graduation.
90. INSTALL “CITY YEAR”/AMERICORPS PROGRAM IN OUR SCHOOLS
City Year is an education focused, nonprofit organization that unites young people of all
backgrounds for a year of full-time service to keep students in school and on track to
graduation. At City Year’s 21 locations across the United States, teams of diverse young
people called corps members serve full-time in schools for 10 months working to
improve student attendance, behavior and course performance in English and math.
91. FREE CHILD CARE CENTER FOR LOW-INCOME FAMILIES
Create a free child care center for low-income working Evanston families.
92. ELDERCARE/LONG-TERM CARE FOR LOW-INCOME SENIORS
Create affordable/free long-term care for low-income Evanston senior citizens.
93. DEVELOP FAMILY ENTERTAINMENT/BOWLING CENTER
A family entertainment center possibly housing a bowling alley, Ferris wheel,
Exploratorium-like space, coffee shop, laser tag, indoor play, water play, roller-skating,
banquet hall, a museum for kids, and a gaming center where gamers can come and play
each other on one theater-sized screen.
94. CREATE YOUTH CAREER & LEADERSHIP CENTER
A youth career center where career building and leadership skills are taught and job
training and placement is offered. An apprenticeship program is included, as well as
life/career coaching.
95. CREATE YOUTH SOCIAL & ACTIVITIES CENTER
A youth social center that has tutoring (including scholarship application assistance),
weekly social activities, food, advertisement of volunteer opportunities, ping-pong,
jukebox, board games/cards, computer access, pool table, arcade, and a
performance/studio space.
96. CREATE SMALL BUSINESS INCUBATOR CENTER
97. BUILD CONVENTION CENTER/EVENT SPACE
98. DEVELOP COMPREHENSIVE JOBS PROGRAM
A job/career center in Evanston for all ages. This job center will contain mentorship
programs, vocational development as well as incentives for employers who hire
participants of this program.
99. BUILD RECREATIONAL ISLAND OFFSHORE
Build a Marina / Hotel / City Complex about a half mile off the shore of Lake Michigan.
100. CREATE YEAR-ROUND INDOOR/OUTDOOR FARMERS MARKET
TOP 100 IDEAS FOR PUBLIC VOTE OCT. 15 & 16
1. HOST INTERNATIONAL THEATER, FILM, HUMANITIES FESTIVALS
2. ORGANIZE SHAKESPEARE SUMMER FESTIVAL FROM STAGE TO SHOPS
Involve all of Evanston in a Shakespearean summer festival, not just on stage, but
everywhere: shops, public buildings, events, all summer long, with food, costumes,
poetry, fencing- the works.
3. BUILD AN OUTDOOR AMPHITHEATER FOR PERFORMANCE/CONCERTS
4. RESTORE FIRST NIGHT NEW YEAR’S EVE CELEBRATION
First Night is a community wide effort, providing free entertainment for families on New
Year’s Eve, alcohol free.
5. BUILD ALL-INCLUSIVE ARTS AND CULTURAL CENTER
Arts and Cultural Center, possibly housing performance space, space for workshops and
classes, kitchens for catering and cooking classes, spaces for producing ceramics,
metalworking, sculpture, photography, design, acting, dance, music, weaving, writing,
etc.
6. PLACE LARGE, TACTILE SCULPTURES THROUGHOUT EVANSTON
Beautiful and climbable. Sculpture integrated along walking/biking paths; gardens/parks
throughout Evanston
7. CREATE ADVOCACY GROUP FOR GREEN BUILDING SOLUTIONS
A community wide resource directed toward improving Evanston’s built environment by
advocating for better and more relevant building solutions: greener, energy efficient,
aesthetically pleasing.
8. ESTABLISH CULTURAL CENTER FOR ALL ETHNICITIES/RACES
Promote better understanding and awareness of others in our diverse society through
educational and recreational activities, an exhibit space, and lecture hall.
9. DEVELOP WORLD-CLASS MUSIC MUSEUM/INSTITUTE
Music institute celebrating all music genres with performance, teaching, exhibit space.
10. CONSOLIDATE CITY AND TOWNSHIP GOVERNMENTS
The city of Evanston and township of Evanston are two separate, but geographically
identical, bodies governed by the same individuals. Under this proposal, Evanstonians
would eliminate a layer of government and save money by eliminating redundancy.
11. INTEGRATE YOUTH INTO CITY-WIDE GOVERNMENT
A separate youth government would be formed along existing ward lines. One
representative from this group would be chosen to fill a newly created seat on the City
Council. Steering/planning committees for community activities would have youth
membership, broadly representing various groups in the community.
12. CREATE INTEGRATED COMMUNITY CALENDAR/RESOURCES DATABASE/ PHONE APP
This integrated communication system would include civic, cultural, charitable,
educational, and recreational information. Northwestern programming would be
accessible, as would information about local venues and businesses. Content would be
interactive: for example, a map of parks might show basketball courts, drinking
fountains, and playgrounds; a museum might offer a preview of its collections. QR codes
would be added to city paper communications to link citizens to the database. An
Evanston-specific app could be developed for Smartphones. A new communication
office, headed by a Chief Information Officer, might be created for effective management
of these centralized resources.
13. AFFORDABLE HOUSING FOR MIDDLE-INCOME RESIDENTS
Reference the Highland Park Illinois Community Land Trust.
14. CREATE A CENTRALIZED HOMELESS SERVICES FACILITY
Bring all the nonprofit groups, agencies, city government services, faith communities/
civic organizations that serve hungry/homeless together in one large, well-equipped
space. Space would provide housing, meals, job counseling, and practical skills toward
independent living. Training could include traditional skills as well as integrating urban
farm skills to apply towards experience in small-scale organic farming, aquaculture,
greenhouse management, seedling production, marketing, and community outreach. This
space should include an overnight shelter that provides at least 40-50 guests, a safe place
to sleep, shower, and do laundry with a part of the shelter set aside for homeless youth.
15. ESTABLISH DENTAL CLINIC FOR LOW-INCOME FAMILIES
16. CONSOLIDATE SCHOOL DISTRICTS 65 AND 202
Consolidate Districts 65 and 202 into one school district to increase the continuity of the
curriculum and the accountability in the schooling of our children. It should also bring
financial accountability and savings; leveling pay scales and administrative overhead.
17. INSTITUTE A COMMUNITY FINANCIAL LITERACY CAMPAIGN
Develop a long-term, integrated, community-wide commitment to ensuring universal
financial literacy, through K-12 curriculum, college-level programs, and afterschool and
adult programs. Partner with local banks/life training – how to apply for jobs, how to
write checks etc.
18. ESTABLISH YEAR-ROUND SCHOOL SCHEDULE
A year-round school schedule breaks up the long summer vacation over the course of the
entire year.
19. BILINGUAL EDUCATION FOR ALL SCHOOL CHILDREN
Every child in Evanston should speak a foreign language upon high school graduation.
Foreign language should be required in grade school for all children and a variety of
languages should be offered. A drop-in language immersion center should exist to
enhance and foster knowledge of foreign languages in our community.
20. MAKE D65/D202 TOP SCHOOL DISTRICTS IN U.S.
Utilize all of our resources and invest in successful education to enable D65 and D202 to
be recognized as top school districts in the country. We need Evanston public school
districts to research and implement best practices in education that propel them into the
nation’s top districts with the goal of 100% graduation from ETHS.
21. CREATE EVANSTON COMMUNITY COLLEGE
22. CREATE ARCHITECTURAL GATEWAY LINKING DOWNTOWN AND NORTHWESTERN
Developing a special space by erecting a dramatic architectural structure that links
downtown Evanston and the University will underscore physically the connection
between the city and the University. It will also serve as a permanent symbol of
Evanston’s pride in this renowned institution and the University’s pride in its host city.
23. STRENGTHEN COMMUNITY’S PARTNERSHIP WITH NORTHWESTERN UNIVERSITY
We seek a true, multi-faceted partnership between the community of Evanston and the
University. That partnership would draw on the strengths of each entity and involve
short-term and long-term initiatives planned for the mutual benefit of both Evanston and
its residents and the University and its community. Initiatives might include making NU
libraries accessible and free for Evanston residents, collaborating on cultural offerings,
and engaging NU in enhancing educational opportunities for Evanston students.
24. BURY ALL OVERHEAD UTILITY CABLES AND WIRES
Replace all overhead power and telephone lines and other cables and wires with
underground lines. Enacting this proposal would both enhance Evanston visually and
reduce instances of lost power and dangerous conditions when overhead lines are downed
during storms.
25. PROVIDE FREE WIRELESS INTERNET ACCESS THROUGHOUT EVANSTON
26. CREATE ONE OR MORE TECHNOLOGY CENTERS
These centers should include space for residents to access computers and printers, for an
Internet café and for classes on technology-related subjects, such as scanning,
keyboarding, media and the use of various devices. The centers can also serve as
locations for a summer technology camp.
27. ESTABLISH BRANCH LIBRARIES THROUGHOUT EVANSTON
Evanston currently has only one branch library, and that is available only part time. This
proposal seeks to increase the number of branch libraries, locate them throughout the
City, and keep them open longer hours in order to make library services and programs
more accessible to all Evanstonians. Among other things, the branches can then serve as
community resource centers, and reach out to engage everyone in literacy activities, for
instance, hosting One Book, One Community programs.
28. MAKE EVANSTON CRIME-FREE
All Evanstonians deserve to live in a safe environment, one free from violence and fear.
Gun violence, in particular, should not be tolerated in our community. This proposal
seeks to sensitize and educate citizens through increased violence prevention and
enhanced community policing programs. It supports hiring and deploying more police
officers at schools and in neighborhood satellite offices so that they can be more closely
involved in the fabric of the community, with a goal of reducing gang activity and aiming
to make Evanston crime free.
29. ESTABLISH BLOCK CLUB ACADEMY FOR IMPROVED COMMUNITY RELATIONS
Establish a Block Club Academy, with a structure specific to the needs of Evanston.
Build relationships by offering residents an opportunity to interact on a more personal
level with each other through inter-ward activities. Create an accessible, printable online
registry and map of existing neighborhood groups with contact information. Offer a
centralized, inclusive way for neighbors to communicate and learn.
Workshops could include:
-Meeting facilitation and communication
-Community standards (e.g. property standards, etc.)
-Organizing a Neighborhood Watch
-Creating community-building events across wards
30. FREE CITY BUS PASSES FOR EVANSTON STUDENTS
31. EXTEND BIKE / WALKING PATHS BETWEEN EVANSTON AND CHICAGO
Create continuous bike and walking paths connecting Evanston to Rogers Park and
Chicago.
32. TEACH ALL EVANSTON CHILDREN TO SWIM
All children in our community should be taught to swim for their health and safety.
33. CREATE A NIGHTLIFE DISTRICT
Encourage businesses to establish entertainment venues, for dancing, karaoke, comedy,
etc., by creating a designated district to draw tourists /residents, provide entertainment for
an adult population.
34. MAKE EVANSTON AN AWARD-WINNING WALKABLE CITY
A walkable city is committed to a walkable environment. This includes pedestrians
walking safely and easily, decent lighting, easy mobility, access and comfort.
35. BUILD WORLD-CLASS, ALL-SEASON RECREATIONAL/SPORTS COMPLEX
A state-of-the-art, green technology community recreational center, possibly housing a
leisure pool, a field house (with indoor courts for soccer, basketball, volleyball, etc.),
fitness center, suspended walking/running track, changing rooms, child-care area and
snack bar, racquetball courts, multi-purpose studios and party rooms, tot playground,
skate park, ice arena, NHL-sized ice rinks, and 50-meter Olympic-sized competition pool
and related amenities along with seating for spectators. Facility could offer/host sports
activities and clubs. (See www.recplexonline.com)
36. ESTABLISH COMMUNITY OUTDOOR POOL/WATER PARK
A state-of-the-art, green technology community pool offering Evanston residents an
outdoor facility with, for example, a 50-meter pool, a leisure pool with zero depth edge
and water slides; wading pool with tot slide; diving pool with two boards and two drop
slides; locker room facilities; concessions; party rentals; lessons in swimming and diving.
Pool could be surrounded by natural prairie/gardens.
37. INTRODUCE BEACH RESORT AMENITIES TO PORTION OF LAKEFRONT
Enhance a portion of Evanston Beachfront (Clark Street Beach as a suggested example)
to include fee based chaise lounges & umbrellas, a cafe, playground, and mini-golf
course.
38. CREATE A MARINA/HARBOR/BOARDWALK WITH RESTAURANTS
39. CREATE A PEDESTRIAN BIKEWAY ON OLD MAYFAIR RAIL SPUR
Secure right of way and convert unused railroad tracks of what remains of the old
“Mayfair Spur” line (used to ship coal and lumber) running from SW Evanston NE to
Lyons/Emerson and onward to Green Bay Road.
40. DEVELOP EVANSTON’S “SECOND COASTLINE” ALONG CANAL
Clean and enhance the canal waterway for recreation encouraging more hiking and
biking. (see Princeton’s canal, NJ)
41. ESTABLISH JAMES PARK RECREATIONAL HUB
Re-envision James Park: Include such things as steps on Mt. Trashmore to encourage
healthy climbing and install a Zip line/bungie, skate park, basketball courts. Establish
cross country ski trails.
42. BUILD A MINOR-LEAGUE BASEBALL STADIUM
43. BECOME ONE OF THE GREENEST CITIES IN THE U.S.
This broad and challenging initiative would focus on improving our environmental
ratings relative to other US cities. These ratings may include, but would not be limited to
greenhouse gas emissions, energy, land use, buildings, transport, water, waste, air quality
and environmental governance.
44. BECOME A CARBON-NEUTRAL CITY
Seattle has announced that it plans to go carbon-neutral by 2030:
www.worldchanging.com/archives/010987.html. In the pledge and attempt to become
carbon-neutral, we could become an inspiration and model for cities worldwide.
Achieving net zero carbon emissions would require balancing our carbon released with
an equivalent amount sequestered. Our actions would likely include dramatic changes,
specifically in transportation, energy production and efficiency, as well as setting aside
green space and planting trees for absorption of the carbon we did release.
45. PROMOTE RESPONSIBLE WATER USE & CONSERVATION
Installing rain gardens and green roofs would reduce the city’s heat island effect in the
summer, absorb storm water (preventing flooding), and filter runoff (keeping pollutants
out of our lake and water supply). Green roofs have the added benefit of providing
insulation for cold winters. Rain gardens planted with native vegetation need minimal
water and care, and require no chemical fertilizers or pesticides. (Chicago has been a
leader in green roofs: www.nytimes.com/2011/05/23/science/earth/23adaptation.html )
46. DEVELOP SELF-SUFFICIENT AND SUSTAINABLE ENERGY RESOURCES
We could begin to divest from fossil fuels; research and develop renewable energy
sources: e.g., wind farm on the lake, wave energy, biomass, and/or thorium-based nuclear
power. Also we could research and develop local energy sources around the city: e.g.,
geothermal energy, wind turbines on roofs, solar panels, and electric car infrastructure.
47. INCREASE ENERGY EFFICIENCY IN BUILDINGS
Residential, commercial and industrial buildings are the largest emitters of greenhouse
gases in Evanston, and exacerbate the "heat island effect" of the city in summer. We
could achieve massive reductions in our city’s CO2 emissions by aggressively retrofitting
all large public buildings for energy-efficiency, and strongly subsidize similar retrofits for
commercial and residential buildings. We could offer free home energy audits and classes
on how to reduce energy costs.
48. EXPAND RESIDENTIAL URBAN GARDENING AND COMPOSTING
Promote the cultivation and distribution of food by groups or individuals on private
and/or public property for personal consumption or distribution.
49. OFFER FREE COMMUNITY GARDENS, GREENHOUSES & COMPOSTING SITES
Establish one or more community gardens and greenhouses, as well as adjacent public
composting sites. Community gardens promote increased community engagement, help
the local environment, promote cardiovascular health and good nutrition, and foster new
friendships.
50. CREATE URBAN FARMS IN NEGLECTED SPACE
Like many urban communities, Evanston lacks sufficient local sources of affordable
organic foods. We produce locally only 3% of our food, and are dependent on food that
travels an average of 1500 miles. Urban agriculture is a proven method of successfully
addressing multiple problems, including inadequate food security, poor nutrition, and
excessive fossil fuel used in food production, processing, transport and refrigeration. This
urban farm could also provide educational opportunities and permanent jobs for our
community. ( thetalkingfarm.org , www.greensgrow.org )
51. CONVERT NEGLECTED SPACE TO NATIVE PRAIRIES
Converting unused space (empty parking, industrial or commercial lots) to native
prairies, wetlands and woodlands would help absorb storm water (thus reducing flooding
hazards), filter pollution (keeping it out of our lake and drinking water), and absorb
carbon (helping us offset our emissions). We would enjoy the peace and beauty of the
natural area, and could offer educational and cultural events, as does the North Park
Village Nature Center in Chicago.
52. INSTALL PERMEABLE PAVEMENT THROUGHOUT EVANSTON
This weave of pavement allows 80% of rainwater to filter through to the ground below. It
reduces flooding by absorbing storm water, saves city water by reducing the need to
water nearby trees and shrubs, and suffers far less deterioration (potholes) by expanding
and contracting with freezes and thaws. (Chicago has been a leader in this new
technology: www.nytimes.com/2011/05/23/science/earth/23adaptation.html )
53. CREATE LOW ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT LAKEFRONT ENTERTAINMENT VENUE
This idea incorporates an entertainment venue in a beautiful location with environmental
responsibility. “Low-impact” directs that there would be minimal negative environmental
impact in creating a place for concerts, plays or other forms of entertainment. Building a
low-impact venue would require attention to construction materials and methods, as well
as the livability and functionality of the venue. A low-impact venue would incorporate
environmentally-friendly building materials, blend with its surroundings so that it is an
integral and not overpowering part of the landscape, and be designed so as to maximize
functionality.
54. FOSTER GREATER COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT
Community activities on both the macro and micro level are an important part of bringing
together and honoring the people, cultures and neighborhoods of Evanston. These
activities would bring residents together by age, location and interest. Activities could
include, but are not limited to, block parties, Block Club Academies, collaborative
projects, program for seniors who live alone (YANA) and encouraging front porch use
with zoning incentives.
55. CREATE SUSTAINABLE, CO-HOUSING SPIRITUALLY-ORIENTED COMMUNITY CENTER
This unique community center is envisioned as a prototype of some of the most
sustainable urban living practices, and would include community space for meditation;
interfaith, community and cultural events; and the growing and sharing of food. See
www.enyadatta.com/proposal
56. INSTITUTE EVANSTON COMMUNITY DAY OF SERVICE
An encompassing day of helping others & helping our community, to be held annually on
a designated date (e.g., fourth Saturday of October). A diverse and action-oriented citizen
committee to plan, brainstorm, mobilize, publicize, & recognize members of our
Evanston community to volunteer (skills & resources). Evanstonians are rallied into a
single day of action to help change our community and foster community.
57. CREATE PHYSICAL HUB FOR NON-PROFIT ORGANIZATIONS
This would establish a centralized building for non-profit organizations that serve
Evanston, while utilizing strengths of each organization, reducing costs and increasing
opportunities. Many non-profit oganizations currently work together, but are limited by
funding, insufficient exchange of information, and geography. This group of non-profits
would develop cross-organizational services to increase their opportunities to receive
Federal, State, local, and foundation funding.
58. ESTABLISH PROGRAM TO REDEVELOP NEGLECTED NEIGHBORHOODS
Using the "Hope Community" model, work with local communities, converting
abandoned buildings into low-income housing and redesigning neglected neighborhoods
for long-term sustainability and human happiness. (Based on the Hope Community
program in Minneapolis, see www.hope-community.org)
59. ESTABLISH COMPREHENSIVE LOW-INCOME HEALTH & WELLNESS CLINIC (including Medical, Mental Health, & Dental)
60. IMPROVE APPEARANCE OF PUBLIC TRANSPORTATION FACILITIES
Improve the appearance of CTA/Metra facilities and surrounding areas with better
lighting, design and art. Add benches at bus stops, especially near seniors.
61. ESTABLISH A TRANSPORTATION LINK TO O’HARE AIRPORT
62. MAKE EVANSTON A TRULY BIKE-ORIENTED CITY
Rather than privileging the car and designing around its needs, we could design Evanston
around our needs for moderate exercise, efficient and enjoyable transportation, and clean
air, by privileging the pedestrian, bicycle, and public transportation instead. We would
establish new bike paths and trails, especially a new bike/walking loop around Evanston,
connecting the lakeshore with the canal; “borrow a bike” stations all over town; designate
some north-south and east-west streets car-free so that biking and walking is safer; and
add benches, water fountains, and shady trees along these routes.
63. ESTABLISH A WATER TAXI TO DOWNTOWN CHICAGO
64. ESTABLISH AN INTERFAITH PRAYER & MEDITATION CENTER
This prayer and meditation center would be a welcome place for individuals of all faiths
to convene in peaceful reflection. Elements of the center may include yoga, art, and
guided meditation.
65. TUITION-FREE COLLEGE EDUCATION FOR ALL EVANSTON GRADUATES
Like the “Kalamazoo Promise,” this program would provide scholarships to cover 100%
of tuition at any Illinois university for all Evanston public school graduates who attended
Evanston public schools from K-12. Kalamazoo has similar demographics to Evanston,
and these privately-funded promise-type programs nationwide have swiftly created
stronger communities, higher housing values and increased student achievement and
participation in college bound coursework. The long-term transformational goals are to
establish a prosperous community with a well-educated work force, bound by a strong
social fabric.
66. BECOME A TOURIST DESTINATION WITH VISITOR CENTER
There are many attractions, activities and programs in our community that attract visitors
to Evanston. With some coordination, those could be expanded upon, and visitors are
encouraged to spend several nights/week instead of a night. Make it easier for people to
have bed and breakfast lodging to add income and tax base. Create a centrally-located,
easily accessible visitor center promoting tourist companies in the area. Install street
directories to help tourists and visitors find their way
67. IMPROVE LOOK & SIGNAGE AT EVANSTON ENTRY POINTS
Introduce "Welcome to Evanston" in prominent entry points. Provide for better signage
and information (e.g. parking garages, transportation portals, library services, free lots,
etc.). Enhance the entry points into the city to be more welcoming.
68. BEAUTIFY CHICAGO AVENUE
Make Chicago Avenue more pedestrian-friendly, with more trees, flowers, benches, bike
lanes, and cafes. Encourage more small businesses to come.
69. PLANT 2013 TREES
70. EXTEND CHICAGO LAKEFRONT INTO EVANSTON
Create a continuous, accessible beach from Chicago to Evanston.
71. OFFER FREE SHUTTLE TO LOCAL/POPULAR DESTINATIONS
The system could incorporate commercial shuttle/trolley to circulate the various points of
interest and shopping districts of Evanston. People could jump on and off at any shopping
area or point of interest. This would enhance Evanston as a destination and would create
a greater "wow" factor for our visitors. Not only would the venues be a draw, it would
also be a fun, family-friendly activity.
72. ESTABLISH “EL SISTEMA” TRANSFORMING YOUTH LIVES THROUGH MUSIC
“El Sistema” is a 38 year old tested model of how a music program can change the life
trajectory of many thousands of a nation’s or community’s neediest children. Founded in
Venezuela, but now spread to 25 countries and to many cities in the U.S., the Sistema
curriculum relies heavily on the discipline and joy of ensemble performance, as well as
private instruction in skill development. Over 300,000 children in Venezuela participate.
Some of the world’s finest musicians have emerged through the “system.” El Sistema is
an inspiring example of positive and transforming child development through music.
73. CREATE EUROPEAN-STYLE TOWN SQUARE/PEDESTRIAN MALL
Town Squares in European cities are common, large inviting spaces where people meet,
stroll, shop, have coffee or drinks. The vacant lot on Davis Street and the unused bank
lanes are eyesores that could be part of a conversion to a grand style Spanish plaza.
74. CREATE DEMPSTER-DODGE COMMUNITY ENTERTAINMENT CENTER
Rehabilitate and rejuvenate the plaza and general area at Dempster and Dodge.
Restaurants, a Trader Joe's, a library branch, farmers market, an entertainment center,
more appealing stores that would draw people, art galleries. Fun things to do for all ages.
75. REDESIGN FOUNTAIN SQUARE AS PUBLIC GATHERING SPACE
Hold a design competition for Evanston designers for the purpose of making Fountain
Square a pedestrian friendly gathering/meeting place. Bring back the original Fountain
(now in the Rose Garden) as a central focus. Re-route traffic to make the square traffic
free. Plant garden area with shrubs and flowers. Shops and restaurants. Possible farmer’s
market. Create a real downtown focal point for relaxation as well as business.
76. CREATE SESQUICENTENNIAL PARK
A park with an attractive and inviting recreation capability at the downtown lakefront
area.
77. CREATE COMMERCIAL ART GALLERY DISTRICT-CORRIDOR
Artists working and studying in Evanston produce art in all media: painting, jewelry,
metal, ceramic, textile, print. A corridor of galleries would encourage art shopping and
would be a draw to Evanston business.
78. MAKE MAJOR PARK IMPROVEMENTS AND ADDITIONS
Ensure that every neighborhood has a quality park. Consider using recycled and green
technology to build more and better parks. Make sure all parks have great benches and
fountains.
79. KEEP LAKEFRONT COMMERCIAL FREE
80. CREATE A CRIB-TO-CAREER CHILDREN’S ZONE
Support children from the moment they arrive until they are launched as successful
citizens. Modeled after the “Harlem Children’s zone,” the zone would unify existing
social service agencies and educational institutions in Evanston to provide crib to career
services including counseling, mentoring, prenatal services, parenting classes, quality
childcare and preschool, great schools and skills training in underserved neighborhoods.
81. PROVIDE UNIVERSAL PRESCHOOL FOR ALL
Help eliminate the achievement gap by providing early childhood education to all
Evanston children.
82. BUILD A WINTER SPORTS COMPLEX
Rejuvenate Mt. Trashmore with rebuilt state-of-the-art sledding/toboggan runs (and
possibly bobsled). Ring perimeter of park with cross country ski trail and rink. Possibly
an ice rink, pro shop, concessions and a rope pull.
83. HOST AN ANNUAL LITERARY FESTIVAL
A festival of books: possibly at Northwestern and around Evanston, featuring Evanston
authors and including a Writing Festival in collaboration with Evanston Writers
Workshop, Medill, etc. Venues could be donated and revenue produced via a book fair
where exhibitors are charged for tables to sell books at. Festival would celebrate the city's
literary history and its future as a home of intellectual discussion and debate.
84. FREE BEACH ACCESS FOR EVANSTON RESIDENTS
85. BUILD A MARINA
Evanston's most significant asset is the lake. A marina off the Evanston shoreline could
be a tremendous economic asset to the community.
86. BUILD LAKEFRONT HOTEL/CONVENTION CENTER COMPLEX
Evanston’s lakefront is underutilized. Economic development at the lakefront would
bring jobs and city tax revenue as well as offset the ever-growing increases in property
taxes. Potential revenue-producing venues in this proposed lakefront build-out could
include: world class performing arts theatre, meeting and convention halls, boutique hotel
and restaurant with lakeside dining.
87. CREATE LAKEFRONT BOARDWALK WITH COMMERCIAL SPACES
Boardwalk ideas could include: nice new outdoor pavilion, a fun place for simple food,
ice cream and snacks (something really lacking on our lakefront), a comfortable area for
laying out a picnic, bike parking, nice restrooms, and more. Our lakefront is already
lovely; it's just not very people or visitor friendly. A place for people to walk along the
water, populated with various local vendors, both art and food. An architecturallystunning
boardwalk along the beach (similar to the High Line in New York City, see
www.thehighline.org ) - natural, beautifully landscaped, with places to sit and read or talk
or eat along the way, some cafes along the way, sculpture, water feature to walk through.
88. BUILD VOCATIONAL/TECHNICAL SCHOOL WITH REGIONAL EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES
Develop a vocational/ technical school that also includes regional employment placement
opportunities for students and graduates of the school. The purpose of the school would
be to develop vocational or technical skills for those wishing to pursue vocational or
technical jobs.
89. DEVELOP CO-OP TECHNICAL SCHOOL FOR UNDER-SERVED YOUTH
The Cooperative Technical school would serve a diverse population of underserved youth
by providing students the opportunity to integrate classroom study with actual experience
in their field of study. These experiences strengthen and enhance student's overall
competencies, increasing the possibility for attaining a successful and fulfilling position
in their chosen career upon graduation.
90. INSTALL “CITY YEAR”/AMERICORPS PROGRAM IN OUR SCHOOLS
City Year is an education focused, nonprofit organization that unites young people of all
backgrounds for a year of full-time service to keep students in school and on track to
graduation. At City Year’s 21 locations across the United States, teams of diverse young
people called corps members serve full-time in schools for 10 months working to
improve student attendance, behavior and course performance in English and math.
91. FREE CHILD CARE CENTER FOR LOW-INCOME FAMILIES
Create a free child care center for low-income working Evanston families.
92. ELDERCARE/LONG-TERM CARE FOR LOW-INCOME SENIORS
Create affordable/free long-term care for low-income Evanston senior citizens.
93. DEVELOP FAMILY ENTERTAINMENT/BOWLING CENTER
A family entertainment center possibly housing a bowling alley, Ferris wheel,
Exploratorium-like space, coffee shop, laser tag, indoor play, water play, roller-skating,
banquet hall, a museum for kids, and a gaming center where gamers can come and play
each other on one theater-sized screen.
94. CREATE YOUTH CAREER & LEADERSHIP CENTER
A youth career center where career building and leadership skills are taught and job
training and placement is offered. An apprenticeship program is included, as well as
life/career coaching.
95. CREATE YOUTH SOCIAL & ACTIVITIES CENTER
A youth social center that has tutoring (including scholarship application assistance),
weekly social activities, food, advertisement of volunteer opportunities, ping-pong,
jukebox, board games/cards, computer access, pool table, arcade, and a
performance/studio space.
96. CREATE SMALL BUSINESS INCUBATOR CENTER
97. BUILD CONVENTION CENTER/EVENT SPACE
98. DEVELOP COMPREHENSIVE JOBS PROGRAM
A job/career center in Evanston for all ages. This job center will contain mentorship
programs, vocational development as well as incentives for employers who hire
participants of this program.
99. BUILD RECREATIONAL ISLAND OFFSHORE
Build a Marina / Hotel / City Complex about a half mile off the shore of Lake Michigan.
100. CREATE YEAR-ROUND INDOOR/OUTDOOR FARMERS MARKET
Monday, October 3, 2011
Four good reasons to get a good business portrait made
Nov 20 BizPics shoot offers affordable headshots
Originally post: March 21, 2011, Updated: October 3, 2011
First, you never know when the AP might want to feature you in an article, like the one social media strategist Alecia Dantico was featured in back when she was at Garrett Popcorn. Fast Company's piece on Domino's Ramon DeLeon was very useful to him, but more so because he had a picture of himself to provide the magazine (which I'm pleased to have made for him.)
You're doing yourself a favor, and the media outlet, by having a photo on hand. Because deadlines and budgets are tight, editors and producers don't always have the resources for getting an image made for their stories. And if by chance they are able to assign a photographer to make your picture, there's no guarantee you'll like the image.
Second, to help maintain or enhance your reputation, having a strong, smart online presence is important. If you are using LinkedIn, Facebook, Twitter and other social media sites, you're expected to include a picture of yourself. An up-to-date one is usually best, because you'll want to use one that communicates the qualities you want the public to know about you now.
Third, as the old adage goes, a picture is worth a thousand words, but who's got time to read a thousand words? Reading a picture is faster. Portraits communicate in seconds qualities of a person words can't. They transcend language. Images are more show and less tell, which is what effective communication is about.
And lastly, because getting a portrait that works can be pricey, my firm, Kring Lerner Group, in cooperation with Boocoo Cultural Center and award-winning stylist Edda Coscioni of Salon Lamia, is offering good portraits at a good price on November 20. Space is limited. For more information and to register, check out register as soon as you can.
Results from past shoots are online on Facebook.
In the portraits above: SymphonyIRI Group’s Nicole Kirkwood (upper left), Portnoy Enterprise’s Ken Portnoy, NPR's Cheryl Corley (lower left) and Catalyst Magazine's Linda Lenz.
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Friday, September 9, 2011
Evanston Mash Up 2011: Dynamism and Innovation for the Taking
by Daniel Schiller
What a drag you say? Not necessarily. Each challenge we face individually has potential, and seasoned crisis managers never allow a good crisis to go to waste. That may seem an ersatz panacea, but looking to thrive in the future is required. Evanston business and civic leaders, with other Evanston stakeholders, will be discussing this and other issues at the Evanston Mash Up on Tuesday, September 13.
Since you are taking the time to read this blog, Evanston and its status as a hub of economic innovation and cultural leadership is likely important to you. This is a big role for any city, and few are able to foster this dynamic environment. There are even fewer cities that have a global research and educational institution (Northwestern University) within its borders. Just last week I heard a story on WBEZ about how universities are beginning to coordinate their development with the communities in which they reside. Maybe that’s a new idea in some cities, but it is a fully integrated practice in Evanston.
A second, but crucial element of the body politic is the resident brain trust. The creative class is drawn to Evanston, where they start and grow businesses, thus making for a thriving local start-up community. To address their unique challenges and needs savvy leaders have created infrastructure to build leading edge companies. This fostering of community ranges from the long-established, such as the Technology Innovation Center, aka The Incubator, to newer, but equally crucial, spots such as Creative Coworking and the late Coworking Evanston. Full disclosure, the latter is of particular interest to this guest blogger. Although I was not an official member, I did benefit mightily from association with Coworking Evanston. The entrepreneurs benefiting from the existing infrastructure established in Evanston are the very people who can write their own ticket in an economy starved for a specific kind of knowledge worker. While some of the infrastructure's architects have moved on to other endeavors (@alphabetum), the fact that I’m guest writing this piece and doing more business in Evanston is testament to the power of the connections made there. I’m writing from my first hand experience, and I’ve covered this topic previously.
If you live, work or study in Evanston, you are associating with the resident intelligentsia in one way or another. It may be at the library, at Whole Foods, at Brothers K or even an Evanston Chamber meeting. But Tuesday’s Evanston Mash Up is the chance to meet many of them—an impressive roster of top local business, cultural and civic leaders—in one night, in one place. If you are debating whether to join us, I invite you to consider the potential value of making connections.
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An aside from Daniel...
I'm pleased to be posting my inaugural post on Evanston Live. I love writing, and try to do so on a regular basis and to address an array of topics.
By simply hanging out with the former Coworking Evanston brain trust I was able to meet many of the area's leading entrepreneurs. It is the self-starters and entrepreneurs that drive the dynamism and innovation that is so important to our local economy. Evanston is, after all, a special, dynamic spot.
In my work with a technology start-up (JasperLabs), and as an adjunct faculty member in the Department of Communications at Roosevelt University, I emphasize the need to create communication solutions that work, and are tailored to each campaign or project, that are audience-centric.
Please be sure to tweet this, to connect with me (@danielschiller and LinkedIn), and our hosts here at @KRKring or @EvanstonLive.
Friday, August 5, 2011
Friday, July 22, 2011
Remembering ArtSkills 2000
Not widely known by most my Evanston friends is that in the Summer of 2000, I led one of the City of Evanston's summer youth employment projects: ArtSkills 2000.The project introduced Evanston teens to the art and business of photography. Though we were headquartered at Chute Middle School where we hosted many photographers who came to share their expertise, it was just as likely to find us shooting pictures around the city, developing film and printing in Norris Center's darkrooms, scanning negs at Columbia College or at the Art Institute or Evanston Photographic,
The coaches encouraged the kids to express their personal vision through the lens of their camera while documenting and exploring their Evanston. The resulting images were as varied as the kids themselves. Then-freshman Nick Cade's focus was on cafe life. Then-senior Gwen McPherson focus was more personal. She shot a series of pictures of her cat Muffy. Mia Rollow shared a views of her room. Some images captured decisive moments such as a picture of a seagull in flight by Richard Hammell, which he nailed with a point-and-shoot no less. Some images were graphic and contrived like Kemone Hendricks’ "Up in the Sky', which she created by hanging a flower in a tree limb. (It's the first image displayed on this page.) Other participates include Kate Broitman, Ann Heindel, Nicole Newman, Michelle Ilme, Jonathan Payne, Tim Robinson Jr., Anthony Sanders, Quinn Stephens, Gabe Patay, Dominique Harrison, Dominique Cunningham, Justin Shields, Kenneth Coe Jr., Eric Edwards and Mort King II.
Later in the project all of Evanston was invited to get involved through a portrait shoot, Evanston People, that invited everyone associated with Evanston to pose for a picture.
The kids' ten weeks of work culminated in a group exhibition at Noyes Cultural Center. We displayed individual portfolios, a slide show and large prints which offered the public a unique perspective on Evanston and what some of its teens are about.
Collaborating organizations included PICTURE THIS Projects and the Evanston Arts Council. Participating coaches and speakers included Jennifer Keats, Shavan Spears, Matthew McNulty, Scott Strazzante, Jon Lowenstein, Tom Maday, John Brooks, Terrence James, Yvette Dostanti, Todd Heisler, Joel Lerner, Bob Quane, Saben Orr and George Pfoertner.
I have many fond memories from that project. Thank you all.
From top to bottom, images displayed here are by Kemone Hendricks, Dominique Cunningham and Justin Shields.
Friday, July 15, 2011
JOURNEY INSIDE THE UNIVERSE OF YOUR IMAGINATION with Mark Kistler July 25-29
If you've ever wanted to learn to draw, renowned author and TV host, Mark Kistler will be hosting a week-long cartooning workshop in Northfield.
When: Monday - Friday, July 25 - 29, 2011
5 Sessions per day: 9a-10a, 10:30 - 11:30a, Noon - 1:00, 1:30 - 2:30, 6:30 - 7:30 p Family Drawing Night
Where: Lutheran Church of Ascension (at the corner of Willow Rd. and Sunset Ridge), Northfield
Cost per session: $89/wk or $69/wk for siblings.
Mark claims anyone can learn to "draw in 3D" by adding depth and perspective.
He encourages kids to translate their dreams and visions onto the page, linking right brain and left brain thinking. The highly energetic Kistler appeared as "Commander Mark" on the PBS TV series "The Secret City" and later on "The Imagination Station."
It's an unforgettable week of laughs and skill building.
Sessions are held for everyone ages 5 and up.
For more info, drawing lessons and registration, go to www.Draw3D.com or call 800-431-6829.
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Thursday, July 14, 2011
2 tickets for $10 for FROM THE MISSISSIPPI DELTA this weekend
This just in from Fleetwood-Jourdain Theatre...
Early Bird 2 for 1 Special!
Arrive at the box office between
6:00-6:30 p.m. on Saturday, July 16
or
3:00-3:30 p.m. on Sunday, July 17
and receive two tickets for $10!
The Theatre at Noyes Cultural Arts Center
927 Noyes St.
Evanston
847.448.8254
Tickets: usually $10 in advance or at the door
About the play: FROM THE MISSISSIPPI DELTA
By Endesha Ida Mae Holland, Ph. D.
Directed by Tim Rhoze
This autobiographical work follows Dr. Holland's powerful journey through poverty and abuse in the Jim Crow South, her role as an activist in the civil rights movement, academic achievement and triumph as a Pulitzer Prize-nominated playwright. This play is filled with story and song.
Featuring Joi-Anissa Russell, Ebony Joy and Elana Elyce
Musical accompaniment by bluesman Vince Agwada
Early Bird 2 for 1 Special!
Arrive at the box office between
6:00-6:30 p.m. on Saturday, July 16
or
3:00-3:30 p.m. on Sunday, July 17
and receive two tickets for $10!
The Theatre at Noyes Cultural Arts Center
927 Noyes St.
Evanston
847.448.8254
Tickets: usually $10 in advance or at the door
About the play: FROM THE MISSISSIPPI DELTA
By Endesha Ida Mae Holland, Ph. D.
Directed by Tim Rhoze
This autobiographical work follows Dr. Holland's powerful journey through poverty and abuse in the Jim Crow South, her role as an activist in the civil rights movement, academic achievement and triumph as a Pulitzer Prize-nominated playwright. This play is filled with story and song.
Featuring Joi-Anissa Russell, Ebony Joy and Elana Elyce
Musical accompaniment by bluesman Vince Agwada
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Wednesday, July 6, 2011
Support Power Paws for Kids in the Pepsi Refresh Project with a click
$5,000 grant to help expand Read to the Dogs program
This in from our neighbors Lida Liu and Bella...
PPK provides animal-assisted therapy programs in the NW Indiana area. Pepsi's grant will help us expand our "Read to the Dogs" programs in the NW Indiana area and possibly to the greater Chicagoland area.
Many kids struggle with reading and find that reading to a dog is much less intimidating and more relaxing than reading to their peers. Power Paws has had much success in helping children improve their reading skills through participation in these programs. The kids really enjoy reading to the dogs and the dogs love being read to as well. Many of these dogs were rescued and are now proud therapy dogs making a difference in the community.
Please help a great cause and remember you can vote everyday through July 31st!
Please click here to vote: http://www.refresheverything.com/powerpaws.
You may also Text 107162 to Pepsi (73774) to vote from your mobile.
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Power Paws for Kids, Inc. is a 501(c)3 not-for-profit organization.
Lida Liu is the Manager of Social Media for Power Paws for Kids, a rock climbing instructor at the Evanston Athletic Club and, with her dog Bella (above), is a Coworking Evanston denizen.
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Wednesday, June 29, 2011
Ten Online Do's and Don'ts for Jobseekers
by Nubia Dandridge, Jonathan Senecal, Amanda Pink, Jordan Burghardt and Karen Kring
On the afternoon of Tuesday, June 28, 2011, after the Youth Job Center of Evanston discussion at the Evanston Public Library about how to use social media to help find jobs, a few of us stayed late to assemble and share some key points from the conversation.
1) Search for yourself on Google and see how easily accessed your information is to strangers. Look for other people with the same name as you and what they are posting as well.
2) Watch out for the pictures and posts that you and others put on Facebook. Monitor photos you're tagged in and filter out the ones that may be inappropriate. Consider having a portrait made of yourself that gives a good first impression.
3) Don't use profanity or mention drug use or sex. Have an appropriate Facebook profile picture. No nudity.
4) Watch where you put your name. For example, don't create profiles everywhere or list your name on too many sites companies that may have access to that you'd not want to be associated with while looking for or maintaining a job.
4.5) Be cautious about your privacy settings on social media sites.
5) Beware of people who check you into places on Facebook. As Daniel Schiller mentioned, you might not want some people to know too much about where you go and what you're doing.
6) Don't connect yourself with everything your friends do.
6.5) Post something positive on the "wall" of Facebook pages of organizations you'd enjoy working with or being associated with in some way, based on the kind of job you'd like to get.
7) Use Facebook status and notes to broadcast what you're interested in. Could post something like "Really interested in volunteering with an animal shelter this summer."
7.5) Create a Facebook "note", or a blog post for another site, that reflects your interests and integrity.
8) Even if you've only ever had one job, even as a volunteer, consider posting a profile for yourself on LinkedIn. Not only does it allow you to post past positions you've held, it allows you to post a narrative about yourself which you will allow potential employers to know more about you. LinkedIn is very popular with potential employers.
9) Find ways to accentuate the positive, eliminate the negative, as the old song goes.
10) "Like" the "Youth Job Center of Evanston" on Facebook.
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Saturday, May 21, 2011
Best Practices for being Green May 24
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This just in from Business Alliance for a Sustainable Evanston (BASE)...The Evanston business community or anyone wanting to be greener is invited to the next meeting of BASE.
Topic: Members' Best Practices
Research has found that 83% of consumers will choose greener products and companies. How can you become one of those companies?
Learn best practices from the NU Engineers For A Sustainable World and several BASE members who have taken steps to green their businesses.
When: Tuesday, May 24, 2011, 5:30 - 7:00 p.m.
Where: Tiny Dog Cupcake
616 Davis St.
Evanston, IL 60201 map
847-563-8680
For more info and to RSVP, message info [at] baseevanston.org.
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Sunday, May 8, 2011
Remembering Rona Lerner
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Joel and I are remembering his mom today. It was five years ago this month that she'd left us. Here's the obit that ran in May 2007, with some embellishment.
Rona Lerner, Educator (and mom, mother-in-law, sister, aunt, gardener, neighbor...)
Rona Lynn Lerner, an Evanston resident, was the kind of teacher who didn't stop being an educator when the school day was done.An educator and community activist, she taught 21 years at the Rudy Lozano School, 1424 N Cleaver St, Chicago. She also co-founded the Evanston School Children's Clothing Association.
A passionate believer in the potential of every child, she devoted her life to knowing her kids, their families and their communities, said her son Joel Lerner of Skokie, a photographer for Pioneer Press. She specialized in teaching 4th and 5th grade science and rediscovered the delights of very young minds three years ago when she started teaching pre-K students, he said. She was pleased to teach many children of former students in her new position.
For Mrs. Lerner, what other people discarded, be it an old detergent bottle or a plastic bag, became the stuff of arts and crafts and science projects, said her daughter, Elita Lerner, of Atlanta.
She would turn things into planters and containers and art objects for her students. The whole family would keep a collection pile for her various projects. She was also famous for cultivating plants and having kids start terrariums or outdoor gardens. An avocado seed was a lesson, she said.
Mrs. Lerner was also a profound believer in the value of field trips to broaden a student's horizons, sometimes paying a student's way, bringing members of her own family when chaperones were needed.
She would go to great lengths to provide a unique experience for the children who were her students'? said Mr. Lerner, her son.
Mrs. Lerner was a lifelong learner who could be found on any given weekend day or evening at the Field Museum, the Chicago Botanic Gardens or the Lincoln Park Zoo.
Born Rona Lynn Weiskirch to William and Ruth Weiskirch on July 7, 1938, Mrs. Lerner grew up in atwo-flat in North Park, attending Peterson Elementary School and Von Steuben High School. She was a graduate of Roosevelt University.
She met her husband, Howard Lerner, who died in 2002, after a friend originally fixed him up with her younger sister.
At their Evanston home, Mrs. Lerner cultivated a garden full of Rose of Sharon, purple hibiscus,
snapdragons and other unusual plants.
Mrs. Lerner died May 14 in Skokie of complications following a cerebral aneurism. Other survivors include a sister, Marla Heller and grandson Gabriel Lerner-Sperow. Funeral services will be held 3 p.m. on Thursday, May 17 at Chicago Jewish Funerals, 195 N. Buffalo Grove Rd, in Buffalo Grove.
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The photo above, made by John Brooks, was taken during an exhibition opening of PICTURE THIS Projects' kids work. She was supported her kids and her kids' kids, whether they were her grandson, our PTP young participants or the children of students she'd taught earlier in her career.
She met her husband, Howard Lerner, who died in 2002, after a friend originally fixed him up with her younger sister.
At their Evanston home, Mrs. Lerner cultivated a garden full of Rose of Sharon, purple hibiscus,
snapdragons and other unusual plants.
Mrs. Lerner died May 14 in Skokie of complications following a cerebral aneurism. Other survivors include a sister, Marla Heller and grandson Gabriel Lerner-Sperow. Funeral services will be held 3 p.m. on Thursday, May 17 at Chicago Jewish Funerals, 195 N. Buffalo Grove Rd, in Buffalo Grove.
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The photo above, made by John Brooks, was taken during an exhibition opening of PICTURE THIS Projects' kids work. She was supported her kids and her kids' kids, whether they were her grandson, our PTP young participants or the children of students she'd taught earlier in her career.
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Sunday, April 24, 2011
With friends, Eldridge Shannon to hip hop his way to graduation May 7
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Hip hop dancer Eldridge Shannon, winner of this year's E-Town Idol, has recruited his fellow dancers and friends for Dance Class of 2011 Benefit Show. Scheduled for May 7 at BooCoo, this rare show aims to showcase some of the best young hip hop dancers in the area and raise the funds Eldridge needs so he can graduate in June from ETHS with his class.Eldridge and I recently discussed his ambitions and the show:
Q: You need money in order to graduate from school. Why? Is someone holding some test scores hostage or something?
Eldridge: No, no, nothing like that. Everyone's been great to me. I took a trip with my theatre class to Canada. It was great, something I'll remember for the rest of my life. We all did some fundraising, but unfortunately I didn't make enough money selling those candy bars, so I had to borrow some from the school. It's time to pay them back.
Q: How much do you owe?
Eldridge: Approximately $480. I'm hoping to have at least 80 people at the show, hopefully more.
Q: What if the show is so well-attended that you make more than you owe ETHS?
Eldridge: I'd like to use some of the funds toward another dance show to raise funds for dance education. The dance community has been so great to me. I want to find a way give a little back.
Q: What are your plans after graduating ETHS?
Eldridge: More dancing and theatre. Also, I'll be going to the Illinois Institute of Art in the fall to study media and animation.
Q: You've got some great friend who are stepping up to perform. Who's performing and what kind of a show can we expect?
Eldridge: JigguRs Dance Company, Nonstop Dance Company, Variations Dance Crew, Samantha Lento, Nicholas Brownlee will be there, and hopefully Kirby Reed and his dancers will come by. The show will be stellar, nothing short of amazing. I'm taking all these great dancers and putting them all under one small roof (lol). I'm trying to make this the biggest local hip hop dance performance Evanston has ever seen.
Dance Class of 2011 Benefit Show: One-night only performance at BooCoo on May 7 starting at 7 p.m. Tickets are on sale online and at the door.
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Friday, April 22, 2011
In Conversation: Photojournalist Lynsey Addario May 3
This in from the Ellen Stone Belic Institute for the Study of Women and Gender in the Arts and Media...
The public is invited to a special evening presentation and discussion with Institute Fellow and award-winning photographer, Lynsey Addario, in conversation with Executive Director Jane M. Saks.
Tuesday, May 3, 6:00 p.m.
Columbia College's Film Row Cinema
1104 S. Wabash Ave., 8th Floor
Chicago
As an Institute Fellow, Addario was commissioned to create portraits of women and girls who are survivors of gender-based violence in the Democratic Republic of Congo for the internationally traveling photography exhibition, Congo/Women Portraits of War, co-produced by the Institute and Art Works Projects. The exhibition premiered at Columbia College in February 2009, and is currently touring internationally through 2012.
A MacArthur Fellow and recipient of a Pulitzer Prize for team reporting, Addario photographs for numerous publications, frequently focusing on human rights and women’s lives around the world. She is a member of the prestigious VII Network, and was recently named one of O Magazine’s “Power List of 2010.”
This will be Lynsey Addario’s first live public program in Chicago since she and three New York Times colleagues—Stephen Farrell, Tyler Hicks, and Anthony Shahid—were held captive in Libya for a week in March by Col. Muammar el-Qaddafi loyalists.
This program is presented by the Ellen Stone Belic Institute for the Study of Women and Gender in the Arts and Media, with support from the Leadership Donors of the Institute, and Illinois Arts Council, a state agency.
For more information, or to request ASL services (48 hrs advance notice): 312-369-8829.
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Wednesday, April 13, 2011
All-You-Can-Eat Pizza at PizzaFest May 3
This in from Evanston Rotary...
Pizza lovers from near and far are invited to the Evanston Rotary's annual PizzaFest.
When: Tuesday, May 3 from 4:30-8:30 p.m.
Where: Giordano's of Evanston, 500 Davis St., Evanston (public parking by Hinman entrance)
Cost: $15/adult and $7/child in advance via Rotary members or online. Tickets will be $17 and $8 at the door.
The menu includes all the cheese, veggie, and cheese and sausage thin crust pizza you can eat, plus soft drinks and beer.
Celebrities and Rotarians will be serving up the pizza and drinks. Evanton's City Manager Wally Bobkiewicz, Nineth Ward Alderman Coleen Burrus and Sixth Ward Alderman Mark Tendam have signed on. Stay tuned for more details.
PizzaFest is just one of the ways Evanston Rotary and it's charitable fund raises money to support youth-focused projects and non-profits in Evanston. This year's beneficiaries include Y.O.U. of Evanston, First United Methodist Church, Childcare Network and McGaw YMCA.
To advertise on PizzaFest placemats--business-card-sized ads for $50--contact Herb Rivero at h.rivero@u.northwestern.edu or 847-866-9777.
Big thanks to the Rotarians organizing this event--Pam Johnson, Bernice Valantinas, Kelly Gilbert, Maggie Noonan, Joe Brownlee and Herbert Rivero--and all those selling tickets, publicizing it, plus serving and helping out on the May 3.
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Full disclosure: My husband Joel Lerner and I are Rotarians. We joined a year ago and are enjoying it. Our club includes some of the most substantial, funny, talented, community-oriented people we've ever met.
When: Tuesday, May 3 from 4:30-8:30 p.m.
Where: Giordano's of Evanston, 500 Davis St., Evanston (public parking by Hinman entrance)
Cost: $15/adult and $7/child in advance via Rotary members or online. Tickets will be $17 and $8 at the door.
The menu includes all the cheese, veggie, and cheese and sausage thin crust pizza you can eat, plus soft drinks and beer.
Celebrities and Rotarians will be serving up the pizza and drinks. Evanton's City Manager Wally Bobkiewicz, Nineth Ward Alderman Coleen Burrus and Sixth Ward Alderman Mark Tendam have signed on. Stay tuned for more details.
PizzaFest is just one of the ways Evanston Rotary and it's charitable fund raises money to support youth-focused projects and non-profits in Evanston. This year's beneficiaries include Y.O.U. of Evanston, First United Methodist Church, Childcare Network and McGaw YMCA.
To advertise on PizzaFest placemats--business-card-sized ads for $50--contact Herb Rivero at h.rivero@u.northwestern.edu or 847-866-9777.
Big thanks to the Rotarians organizing this event--Pam Johnson, Bernice Valantinas, Kelly Gilbert, Maggie Noonan, Joe Brownlee and Herbert Rivero--and all those selling tickets, publicizing it, plus serving and helping out on the May 3.
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Full disclosure: My husband Joel Lerner and I are Rotarians. We joined a year ago and are enjoying it. Our club includes some of the most substantial, funny, talented, community-oriented people we've ever met.
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Wednesday, April 6, 2011
Homestay hosts needed for high school teachers from Madrid
This just in from World Chicago...
World Chicago is seeking homestay hosts for up to 30 bilingual (Spanish/English) high school science teachers from Madrid, Spain June 26-July 23, 2011. Monday through Friday, the teachers have a full set of classes at Roosevelt University downtown, but most weekends and evenings are free for these teachers to explore Chicago together with their host families.
We ask the homestay hosts to provide:
A separate bedroom for the delegates and access to a private or shared bathroom;
Breakfast and dinner daily; and
Quality time spent with Spanish guests to share experiences/insights about daily life and culture in Chicago and help them practice their English while becoming familiar with American culture!
A stipend will be made available to homestay hosts.
If interested, please contact Marian Reich at (312) 254-1800 x103 or mreich@worldchicago.org.
Monday, March 7, 2011
Someone you should know: Sanders Hicks
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Sanders
Hicks takes photos at the Evanston Northshore Speed Skating Open at
Robert Crown Ice Center in Evanston, Sunday March 7, 2011. |
Sanders Hicks, known as Sam, founded the Evanston Speed Skating Club in 1966. He's member of
the National Speed Skating Hall of Fame and was Olympic speed skater Shani Davis' first coach.
This year the Evanston Speed Skating Open renamed of the 1000 Meter races
for both men and women as the Sam Hicks Classic.
In 1980, Sam became Evanston's first African American fire chief.
the National Speed Skating Hall of Fame and was Olympic speed skater Shani Davis' first coach.
This year the Evanston Speed Skating Open renamed of the 1000 Meter races
for both men and women as the Sam Hicks Classic.
In 1980, Sam became Evanston's first African American fire chief.
More photos from the Open by Joel Lerner are on Facebook.
Side note: Tip of the hat to Harry Porterfield with the Someone You Should Know reference.
Side note: Tip of the hat to Harry Porterfield with the Someone You Should Know reference.
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Friday, February 11, 2011
Where are they now?: Catherine Johns and Karen Hand
Now at the Chicago Hypnosis Center, Catherine and Karen have a sweetheart deal for you
You might remember Catherine Johns and Karen Hand from their careers in Chicago radio.
Catherine was a news anchor, talk show host and morning show sidechick for WLS and later for WJMK. She still hears from people who miss having her keep them company from their car's dashboard. Karen was once at WLS too, then later served as News Director, on-air personality and talk show host at B-96 and WCKG. She headlined the top rated program Private Lives with Dr. Kelly Johnson for more than a decade, helping Chicagoans with self improvement and relationship issues.
Catherine and Karen are still using their voices to help Chicagoans, though now as hypnotists.
Working together again, they established their hypnosis practice in 2005 and together founded the Chicago Hypnosis Center.
Catherine is now a Certified Hypnotist and a Master Practitioner of Neuro-Linguistic Programming. She works with clients on weight loss and developing their professional presence and business skills.
Karen Hand is a Master Hypnotist and National Guild of Hypnotists Certified Instructor. She specializes in pain management, smoking cessation, fear release and stress reduction. She also teaches classes in the art of hypnosis.
"The transformation we see in our clients is amazing," Catherine says. "It's very gratifying work."
Through the Chicago Hypnosis Center, Catherine and Karen are offering a "sweetheart deal". From now until Valentine's Day, a person can sign up for a hypnosis program with their sweetheart, or a friend, and one of them gets their help for free.
"There is no predetermined set program to help clients accomplish their goals. Each program is tailored for an individual's needs."
"What we do is start with a consultation to get a good sense of a person's objectives and lay out a plan to help them get there. The program could be anywhere from two or three sessions, or more, depending on a person's goals and motivation."
There's more information about hypnosis and the Center's practice on their website and Facebook page.
To learn more about their deal and how they can help you, Karen and Catherine are reachable at 773-725-3200.
You might remember Catherine Johns and Karen Hand from their careers in Chicago radio.
Catherine was a news anchor, talk show host and morning show sidechick for WLS and later for WJMK. She still hears from people who miss having her keep them company from their car's dashboard. Karen was once at WLS too, then later served as News Director, on-air personality and talk show host at B-96 and WCKG. She headlined the top rated program Private Lives with Dr. Kelly Johnson for more than a decade, helping Chicagoans with self improvement and relationship issues.
Catherine and Karen are still using their voices to help Chicagoans, though now as hypnotists.
Working together again, they established their hypnosis practice in 2005 and together founded the Chicago Hypnosis Center.
Catherine is now a Certified Hypnotist and a Master Practitioner of Neuro-Linguistic Programming. She works with clients on weight loss and developing their professional presence and business skills.
Karen Hand is a Master Hypnotist and National Guild of Hypnotists Certified Instructor. She specializes in pain management, smoking cessation, fear release and stress reduction. She also teaches classes in the art of hypnosis.
"The transformation we see in our clients is amazing," Catherine says. "It's very gratifying work."
Through the Chicago Hypnosis Center, Catherine and Karen are offering a "sweetheart deal". From now until Valentine's Day, a person can sign up for a hypnosis program with their sweetheart, or a friend, and one of them gets their help for free.
"There is no predetermined set program to help clients accomplish their goals. Each program is tailored for an individual's needs."
"What we do is start with a consultation to get a good sense of a person's objectives and lay out a plan to help them get there. The program could be anywhere from two or three sessions, or more, depending on a person's goals and motivation."
There's more information about hypnosis and the Center's practice on their website and Facebook page.
To learn more about their deal and how they can help you, Karen and Catherine are reachable at 773-725-3200.
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Thursday, February 10, 2011
Evanston weathers Blizzard 2011
Images by Evanston Review's Joel Lerner
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| 2/1/11: Crossing Asbury at Central in Evanston |
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2/1/11: Bracing against the wind near the Peter Jans Golf
Course in Evanston during the snowstorm
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2/1/11: Crossing Ridge at Noyes
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| 2/1/11: Ducking the snow on Orrington Ave |
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| 2/2/11: Anna Marlene Topping leads her family,
(from left) father Rob, sister Jacqueline and mother Alice in a cross country skiing excursion down the middle of Colfax St. |
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| 2/2/11: Evanston's Cathy Steege leads her daughter, Beth Neal
and husband Justin Neal snowshoeing through Perkins Woods in northwest Evanston Here's the Feb 2 Evanston Review story to go with the above pictures. |
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| 2/3/11: Evanston Forestry Department's Juan Octaviano on the job plowing Evanston streets |
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| 2/3/11: An appreciative thumbs for Juan for plowing her streets without plowing her in |
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| 2/3/11: In accordance to the snow emergency plan, cars on the wrong side of the street are ticketed, moved, and placed back where they were on the newly cleaned street. |
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| 2/3/11: On larger roads, two plows work in concert to clear the streets Here's the Feb 8 Evanston Review story Joel worked on with Bob Seidenberg about the slow-plow ride-along. |
More pictures of our Skokie, Morton Grove, Wilmette, Winnetka and Glencoe
neighbors wrestling or playing in with the snow are up on Joel's Facebook page.
neighbors wrestling or playing in with the snow are up on Joel's Facebook page.
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