Evanston Live

New Voters: Ask your questions about latest election at Boocoo March 13

2012-03-09T00:33:00.013-06:00

Bad politicians are sent to Washington by good people who don't vote.

-- William Simon

Eldridge Shannon (ETHS '11) and I invite friends, neighbors and classmates to...

New Voters Get-Together at Boocoo

(Where there's no such thing as a dumb question.)

Tuesday, March 13, 5-7 p.m.

Boocoo Cultural Center and Cafe
1823 Church Street (kitty corner from ETHS)
Evanston (map)

We will discuss the electoral process, the upcoming election specifically and the history of judges' elections.

New voters and veteran voters alike are invited to come with questions and get them answered by neighbors who've been involved in electoral process.

Featured participants include:
Evanston's 5th Ward Alderman Delores Holmes (ETHS '57)
Illinois State Representiave Daniel Biss
Candidate for Cook County judge Abbey Fishman Romanek (ETHS '78)

Others expected include:
Citizens to Elect Judge Jean-Baptiste staffer Ayinde Jean-Baptiste
Political organizer Haley Leibovitz
Past DPOE board member Samantha Reed
Waukegan First Lady Jo-An Takamoto Sabonjian
Former Evanston City Clerk and active League of Women Voters Evanston member Mary Morris

Light refreshments will be served.

Eldridge Shannon has organized this event to promote civic engagement in cooperation with Boocoo Cultural Center and Cafe, League of Women Voters Evanston, Youth Job Center of Evanston, Advocates for Abbey and Kring Lerner Group.

Learn more at on Facebook.

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Kring Lerner Group is the sponsor of this blog and Live From Skokie. Advocates for Abbey is a client of Kring Lerner Group.

What do you know about McDonald's "Hot Coffee" case?

2012-02-09T16:50:00.002-06:00

This in from Percolator Films, presenters of REELTIME...

Seinfeld mocked it. Letterman ranked it in his top ten list. And more than fifteen years later, its infamy continues. Everyone knows the McDonald’s hot coffee case. It has been routinely cited as an example of how citizens have taken advantage of America’s legal system, but is that a fair rendition of the facts?

Susan Saladoff's HOT COFFEE (2011, 86 min.) reveals what really happened to Stella Liebeck, the woman who spilled coffee on herself and sued McDonald’s, while exploring how and why the case garnered so much media attention, who funded the effort and to what end. In HOT COFFEE, lawyer-turned-filmmaker Susan Saladoff closely looks at this and three other cases that illustrate the current threats to the legal rights of everyday citizens.

Cast includes Al Franken, John Grisham and others with insights on U.S. legal system.

The public is invited to a screening of HOT COFFEE.

When: Wednesday, February 22, 2012, 7 p.m.

Where: Evanston Public Library
1703 Orrington Avenue Evanston, IL
Map

Cost: FREE to the public

Questions: Contact 847-371-2804 or filmvideoforum@yahoo.com

Post-screening discussion facilitated by attorney Abbey Fishman Romanek.

This event is presented in collaboration with North Shore LAW and Kring Lerner Group.

The free REELTIME series is a program of Percolator Films, Evanston's non-profit film arts organization that also organizes the annual Talking Pictures Festival.

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Karen here: I first heard about this movie in October 2011 when Susan Saladoff appeared on the Colbert Report...and held her own. You can see how that went here.

Note: Kring Lerner Group is the sponsor of this blog. Advocates for Abbey Fishman Romanek for Judge is a client of Kring Lerner Group.

Joys of Canvassing

2012-01-19T16:15:00.005-06:00

by Anne Crowe

Saturday morning, 10 a.m. It’s sunny and crisp as I pull up to my local Democratic office. Gear check: comfortable shoes, hat, gloves and chapstuff. There’s a spring in my step and a smile on my face. Canvassing today!

Inside, there’s coffee and donuts and collecting packets for the canvass. The packets include your walk map, lists of names and addresses of Democratic voters and a script. I could go alone, but I prefer a walk partner. Both to commiserate and cheer with. More importantly, for me, a walk partner shares tasks and its easier for both of us. Sometimes, we do odds and evens, making our way on blocks that maybe we’ve never seen before and talking to people who have never heard of our candidate.

So off we go, into the neighborhood. We check where we are, house numbers and names. The first door knock and the next. This is where the real work starts and the reward.

This is a chance to interact with my neighbors on a meaningful level about a candidate I know and believe in. Some people aren’t home, aren’t answering or aren’t interested. When someone comes to the door, we are elated. We establish rapport byintroducing ourselves and our candidate. We offer information, answerquestions and discuss the ideals and values of the candidate.

Even when the weather is awful, the idea that I can be an instrument of political change is enough to keep me going. The people we meet make it worthwhile and perhaps, in part because of us, our candidate will garner another vote.

The camaraderie in a Democratic campaign office after a successful canvass is energizing. Our packets are complete and given to the campaign manager. Stories of friendly supportive neighbors are exchanged over the last cups of coffee.

Community building is a civic privilege. Canvassing allows citizens a unique means of connecting with each other, the ability to educate neighbors and effect real change.

That said, walking around talking to people is a great way to lift body and spirit. And at the end of the day, to feel the sense of accomplishment that comes from doing the good work.

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Anne Crowe lives in Chicago, near the shores of Lake Michigan. Anne enjoys all aspects of campaigning and volunteers for local, state and presidential campaigns. When not involved with politics, Anne is a licensed clinical professional counselor and works at NORC at the University of Chicago.

Women need to write their own stories

2011-12-20T09:54:00.003-06:00

From my "Don't Get Me Started" files:
Kemone's Sister
(from the Evanston ArtSkills 2000 project)

I've been paying attention to women's and girl's representation in the media for a long time, well before I help found PICTURE THIS Projects in the early 1990s with other women photographers who understood the value of girls and women creating their own images, images about themselves and how they see the world.

One way we can participate in changing what is considered acceptable portrayals of women is for women to share their own perspectives more directly.

For women wanting to share, to amplify their voices to help others better understand what they know to be true, but need some guidance, there's The OpEd Project.

Medill professor Michele Weldon talks about the October 2011 "Writing to Change the World" seminar on her blog, everywomannews.

The next "Writing to Change the World" seminar is January 15, 2012. Michele Weldon is expected to be one of the leaders of that session too in downtown Chicago. Early bird discount ends January 5. Let me know if you go.

Check out Gini Dietrich's recent piece in Crain's, "Time to take the first step to undo the media's ugly portrayal of women," and see if it doesn't resonate with you.

By the way...

I continue encouraging the voices of women and girls in various ways, such as going to see Julia Sweeney at SPACE last weekend. (She did a version of The Talk which killed.) I'm also active in the Association for Women Journalists-Chicago. More than 10 years ago I founded its listserv, which encourages sharing and camaraderie between more than 700 women in journalism. Now immediate past president, after six years on its board, besides serving on its membership committee, I'm doing my part to help with continuing education of women journalists and development of a new outlet for women's media work via AWJ-TV.

Watch me now. I'm saying this out loud: I aim to create (or help create) a platform (a show of some kind, perhaps) that will reveal the stories behind scenes in the worlds of journalism and media. It's going slow. Any conversations you want to have with me, any advice you have to offer, will be well-received.

“The most common way people give up
their power is by thinking
they don't have any.” ~ Alice Walker

Rotary Club of Evanston's Holiday Benefit December 8

2011-11-14T09:12:00.009-06:00

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.
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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.
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Karen here: In the name of full disclosure, Joel and I are Rotarians.

What are your favorite Evanston150 ideas?

2011-10-14T12:38:00.000-05:00

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

Four good reasons to get a good business portrait made

2011-10-03T21:40:00.004-05:00

Nov 20 BizPics shoot offers affordable headshots

Originally post: March 21, 2011, Updated: October 3, 2011

Having a good portrait made of yourself is a good idea no matter what profession you are in or ambitions you have.

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.

Evanston Mash Up 2011: Dynamism and Innovation for the Taking

2011-09-09T17:52:00.013-05:00

by Daniel Schiller

The news of late is enough to lead a thoughtful person to start gathering canned goods and seal windows against the winds of unprecedented challenge. The past three years have forced most of us to re-think the services we expect from our government, our career choices and the way we do business.

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.

Save the date: September 13 for Evanston's next Mash Up

2011-08-05T13:39:00.006-05:00

Non-members and members of the Evanston Chamber can now register for the Mash Up online.

Remembering ArtSkills 2000

2011-07-22T12:54:00.001-05:00

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.

JOURNEY INSIDE THE UNIVERSE OF YOUR IMAGINATION with Mark Kistler July 25-29

2011-07-15T18:03:00.002-05:00

This just in from our neighbor Robert Neustadt in Northfield...

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.

2 tickets for $10 for FROM THE MISSISSIPPI DELTA this weekend

2011-07-14T17:53:00.001-05:00

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

Support Power Paws for Kids in the Pepsi Refresh Project with a click

2011-07-06T17:43:00.005-05:00

$5,000 grant to help expand Read to the Dogs program

This in from our neighbors Lida Liu and Bella...

Please vote for Power Paws for Kids in the Pepsi Refresh Project.

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.

Ten Online Do's and Don'ts for Jobseekers

2011-06-29T15:41:00.000-05:00

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.

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 out. For example, don't create profiles everywhere or list your name on too many sites companies 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) Friend "YJC-Evanston" and "like" the "Youth Job Center of Evanston" on Facebook.

Best Practices for being Green May 24

2011-05-21T18:17:00.003-05:00

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.

Remembering Rona Lerner

2011-05-08T09:07:00.004-05:00

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.

With friends, Eldridge Shannon to hip hop his way to graduation May 7

2011-04-24T23:02:00.003-05:00

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.

~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~

Full disclosure: Eldridge is my pseudo-nephew, for lack of a more descriptive term. I've known him and his mom since he was 9 years old, back when we all lived on Brummel in Evanston.

In Conversation: Photojournalist Lynsey Addario May 3

2011-04-22T21:03:00.006-05:00

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.

All-You-Can-Eat Pizza at PizzaFest May 3

2011-04-13T10:16:00.006-05:00

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.

Homestay hosts needed for high school teachers from Madrid

2011-04-06T18:10:00.006-05:00

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.

Karen here: World Chicago, formerly known as the International Visitors Center, has been hosting visitors from every corner of the world for many years. I've participated on their programs as a volunteer and paid project leader and found the organization great to work with. Marian Reich is especially wonderful.

Someone you should know: Sanders Hicks

2011-03-07T16:37:00.006-06:00

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.

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.

Where are they now?: Catherine Johns and Karen Hand

2011-02-11T17:26:00.011-06:00

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.

Evanston weathers Blizzard 2011

2011-02-10T11:31:00.029-06:00

Images by Evanston Review's Joel Lerner

2/1/11: Crossing Asbury at Central in Evanston

2/1/11: Bracing against the wind near the Peter Jans Golf Course in Evanston during the snowstorm

2/1/11: Crossing Ridge at Noyes

2/1/11: Ducking the snow on Orrington Ave

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.

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.

2/3/11: Evanston Forestry Department's Juan Octaviano on the job plowing Evanston streets

2/3/11: An appreciative thumbs for Juan for plowing her streets without plowing her in

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.

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.

Let's lunch and talk about how we influence our girls Feb 1

2011-01-20T18:05:00.005-06:00

Girl Scouts of Greater Chicago and Northwest Indiana cordially invites us to...
Cinderella Ate My Daughter
Dispatches from the Front Line of the New Girlie-Girl Culture

A Conversation with Peggy Orenstein and Maria E. Wynne

Peggy Orenstein
Contributing Writer for The New York Times and best-selling author of Schoolgirls

Maria E. Wynne
Chief Executive Officer, Girl Scouts of Greater Chicago and Northwest Indiana

When: Tuesday, February 1, 2011, 11:30 a.m. - 1:30 p.m.
11:30 a.m. - Registration and Networking

12:00 p.m. - Lunch

1:30 p.m. - Book signing

Where: The Chicago Club, 81 E. Van Buren St, Chicago

(Here's a map, in case you need it.)

Cost: $50

Learn more and RSVP by Monday, January 31, 2011 online.

If you have questions, please contact Bryn Reese at 312.416.2500 ext. 270.
.

Mountain Heart plays American Legion Post 42

2011-01-10T01:19:00.006-06:00

Evanston/January 8, 2011: Josh Shilling, Jake Stargel, Aaron Ramsey, Barry Abernathy, Jason Moore and Jimmy Vancleeve, collectively known as Mountain Heart, brought their brand of bluegrass to the Bluegrass Legends concert series at Evanston's American Legion Post 42. Post member Chip Miller started the concert series 12 years ago.

Photos by Joel Lerner for Pioneer Press/Sun-Times Media

Rotary Holiday Party and Auction December 9

2010-11-23T21:23:00.005-06:00

This just in...

The Rotary Club of Evanston cordially invites friends and neighbors to eat, drinking and be merry at its annual holiday party and auction.

The evening will feature a live and silent auction, live music, a dinner buffet and an open bar.

"This is one of our biggest fundraisers for the Club. It provides funds for our Charitable Fund that allows us to do so much good in the community through our grants program," says Dick Peach, a key organizer of the event.

When: Thursday, December 9, starting at 6 p.m.

Where: North Shore Hotel, 1611 Chicago Ave., Evanston, IL 60201

Cost: $70 prior to December 6; $75 at the door.

RSVP: Online or by calling Dick at 847-702-1423 and sending a check payable to "Rotary Club of Evanston Charitable Fund" to Rotary Club of Evanston, P.O. Box 84, Evanston, IL 60204, Attn: Holiday Party.

Oh, by the way, Joel Lerner, Genie Lemieux, Jill Brazel and I have donated portraits to the silent auction. Other generous folks have donate some neat items too.

NBC Chicago's looking for a winter intern

2010-11-22T13:30:00.001-06:00

.
This in from NBC Chicago Executive Producer Kathryn Janicek...

I am looking for a winter intern for the NBC Chicago morning show.

Dream candidate:
can start in December,
is a junior or senior,
has taken a few journalism classes including TV writing,
knows the benefits of social media,
and can work early morning hours 3-4 days a week.

The winter NBC Chicago morning show intern can expect to:
shadow reporters during live shots,
learn to write TV news for a live broadcast,
use social media to help promote stories and build relationships with viewers;
and help book guests.

Please have all potential candidates email me directly at kathryn.janicek@nbcuni.com.

Journalists and journalism students can learn about more career opportunities on the Association for Women Journalists-Chicago's listserv.

Kinnier Lastimosa's Excellent Day

2010-10-26T07:45:00.000-05:00

Glimpse of Evanston - October 22, 2010

After a nostalgic ride on the Purple Line up to Evanston, we celebrated my wife's 10-year college reunion by attending the
Northwestern homecoming reception, pep rally and parade. During the pep rally, the audience gathered on Deering Field to
enjoy inspirational words by Coach Fitzgerald, music by the full Northwestern University Marching Band, performances by
the cheerleaders and the Ladycats, and purple flag waving by the colorguard, which caught my eye.

We followed the spirit squad down to Sheridan Road and watched them prepare for the Homecoming Parade. That partially
behind-the-scene glimpse enthralled me as much as the parade itself, during which a cheerleader accidentally pegged me in
the forehead with a piece of hard candy. I was occupied photographing and did not even get to retrieve the candy and enjoy
the spoils.

Instead, after a peek at our old dorm (Public Affairs Residential College), we stopped by Andy's Frozen Custard. The recent
addition to downtown Evanston featured a $0.99 one-day special on a pumpkin pie concrete, the perfect sweet treat to
conclude the fall evening.


Kinnier Lastimosa is an attorney by day and a photographer other times.

Celebrating Alice C.D. Riley Sept 30

2010-09-15T10:19:00.003-05:00

This just in...

The Evanston Art Center (EAC) will celebrate the legacy of its founder, Alice C.D. Riley, with an evening in her honor at the Evanston History Center September 30, 5:30-7:30 p.m.

Refreshments will be provided as well as tours of the Dawes House, information on EAC's Alice Riley Society, remarks on the history of the EAC and the fascinating woman who started it all, Alice C.D. Riley. The cost for the event is $10 per person. For tickets, please call 847-475-5300 to make a reservation.

The Evanston Art Center, founded in 1929, is dedicated to fostering the appreciation and expression of the visual arts among the diverse audiences of the North Shore/Greater Chicago region.

Help a Reporter Out and Get Your Story Told

2010-08-17T09:01:00.012-05:00

Dawn Reiss offers advice on working with journalists

Earlier this year I lead a panel discussion for non-profit communicators and other community members about how people with stories to offer the media can work with freelance journalists at Community Media Workshop’s Making Media Connections conference at Columbia College. I asked my colleague, independent journalist Dawn Reiss to write down some of the ideas she thought those approaching journalists should know. Here’s what she had to say.

Many publicists, media relations “experts” think they know what reporters really want. Most don’t and only a few actually find out. The good ones are former reporters. They understand deadlines, how to pitch, nudge but not overwork a reporter. Here are a few tips based on more than a decade in the business.

•    Do some homework on the reporter before you pitch. Know what publications a reporter covers. If they cover a lot, like I do--newspapers, blogs, magazines, national and local outlets, online outlets--note the daily and long-term deadlines. Pitch appropriately. Google a reporter’s name. Most have something online.

•    Pitch three story ideas. If you strike out on the first two, chances you’ll get it on the third try.

•    Your story ideas answer this question: Why should we care? Also ask yourself, why is this important? Who does this affect?

•    Cut out the bull. We don’t care about adjectives and superlatives. Just the facts. I don’t have time for the extraneous spin and colorful details with flowery writing. Find factoids, give bullets, short paragraphs, 3-4 at the most.

•    When you give details, make sure you can back them up. If you say this is the tallest building in Chicago, give the height, square footage and the previous tallest building. The less initial research a reporter has to do, the more likely you are to get that reporter to follow-up.

•    Make sure you have information online. It doesn’t matter if it is a website, Facebook page or a blog. I need to show my editor something.

•    Give me all that fancy packet, brochure information in e-form. Just PDF it. It’s quicker. I hate snail mail. It takes too long and too bulky to keep track of.

•    This is a no-brainer, but I can’t tell you the number of times people don’t do this. If you call and get a reporter on the phone who has questions and asks for a follow-up, actually follow-up. Ask their deadline, be prompt and try to get back before they originally asked and even if you don’t have the information they requested, call back and tell them so, so they aren’t waiting.

•    Give me photos and videos. We live in a multi-media world. Many of us are mobile journalists. Photos sell a story. But don’t give me stock photos of an empty room. If it is a restaurant opening, give me photos with people in it. I may not need this in the initial pitch, but it certainly helps to paint a picture.

•    Be “politely aggressive.” Pick up the phone and call. I get 300+ emails a day. Some reporters hate to be called. I don’t. If you get a reporter who hates phone calls, just apologize. The worst that can happen is they will be annoyed, but more likely they will just apologize for being overworked since newsrooms and freelancers are inundated with people trying to pitch them. The ratio I last heard was one pr to one reporter.

•    Treat ALL reporters (and other people) with respect. You never know who will end up where next. It’s like a revolving door. A reporter may be someone’s editor in a year from now and vice versa. The most annoying thing is to have a publicist treat a freelancer like a “half-rate” journalist. I think approximately 50 percent of all journalists are now freelancers. Frankly, you’re more likely to get “in” with a freelance journalist who has to frequently pitch to a variety of editors than a reporter who has to worry less about writing a certain number of stories each month.

•    Get on HARO (Help a Reporter Out), Profnet or Reporter Connection and become a resource. Once you become a source for one or two reporters you’re likely to get called again because reporters usually research what has already been written and go back to reliable sources.

•    If you’re trying to find reporters to pitch, read bylines and check out some of these websites’ databases: mediabistro.com, CWIP (Chicago Women in Publishing), AWJ-Chicago (Association of Women Journalists-Chicago), Chicago Headline Club (the local chapter of the Society of Professional Journalists and the largest Chicago-based journalism organization), AAJA (Asian American Journalist Association) and Freelancesuccess.com, a great resource for freelancers and publicists. (There are plenty of others too.)

Use Social Media

This is so overlooked by so many people. You need to use it and think about the future. Everyone is going mobile. Most media organizations now have apps or are in the process of creating one. Look at how your website comes up on a smartphone. If it doesn’t work well, consider revamping your page.

Twitter

•    Make lists to help “divide and conquer” your different topics, reporters to follow, everyone.

•    Consider using: Tweetdeck, Friendorfollow.com, PeopleBrowsr.com, Tweetmeme.com, Twitalyzer.com or Twinfluence.com

•    Create a custom Twitter templates: Mytweetspace.com, Twitterbacks.com and Twitterbackgrounds.com

•    RT (Re-Tweet), Pay a compliment, Pay it Forward.

Blog

•    Consider putting a blog on your website. Write about industry trends about your non-profit. Make yourself an expert so the public and reporters view “you, the organization” as an expert.

Viral Sites

•    Consider posting links of stories reporters write or blog posts from your own website on viral sites. Consider sites like StumbleUpon, Digg, Reddit, Facebook Share, Buzz, Fark, Del.icio.us, YouTube, as well as local sites like WindyCitizen and GapersBlock that repost and can aggregate, or national ones like Gawker and Jezebel.

Facebook

•    Create a page. It’s free. Post photos, updates, get fans, link to your website and to videos. Just make sure to monitor it. It’s an easy way to go viral and get your name out. Reporters frequently use Facebook pages for reliable sources, so it is a quick way to access people who are interested and/or knowledgeable about your non-profit, especially if reporters need sources.

Karen here: Let me just add this: Getting your news covered is about relationship building and communicating with journalists as quickly and succinctly as possible. Doing your homework will help on both counts. To help with that, consider getting Community Media Workshop's media guide, Getting On Air, Online and Into Print. It offers information on Chicago-area journalists and then some. Getting both the digial and printed version is a good investment. If you can't afford to buy the guide, call your library to see if they carry it. If they don't, ask them to get it. You'll be doing yourself and your neighbors a favor.

Also, when you call a journalists, whether they are an editor, a freelancer or staffer, after you identify yourself, ask them "is now a good time to talk?". Sometimes they are on deadline and can't talk and this acknowledges that you understand their working conditions and saves them from having to explain to you that they are busy at that moment.

Red Cross offers some interesting testimonials from broadcaster who've worked with them. Consider what is being said about them and consider whether journalists you're developing relationships with could say the same thing about you and your organization. The Red Cross mentions "partnering". When you have a story to tell, finding the right partner and holding up your end will matter.

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Dawn Reiss is a Chicago-based freelance journalist and a former St. Petersburg Times and Dallas Morning News staff writer. Her work has been published by 25+ outlets including: CNN.com, Chicago Tribune, Chicago magazine, USA Today, Travel + Leisure, American Way and Life & Style. She is currently working for Time magazine and is a paid blogger for Trueslant.com . She practices what she preaches; she's on Facebook and Twitter. View her portfolio at www.mediabistro.com/dawnreiss. She can be reached at dreiss100@gmail.com or 312-590-1921.

Donate Back-to-School Gear and be on TV August 25

2010-08-16T12:27:00.002-05:00

If you or your company would like to donate back-to-school items to Chicago-area kids going back to class, NBC-5's Katherine Janicek wants to hear about it. You can donate live on TV at NBC's Studio 5 Plaza in Chicago next week, August 25 from 5-7 a.m., and get a mention (depending on how large the donation is.)

Contact Kathryn Janicek, Daypart Manager, NBC 5 News Today at Kathryn.Janicek@nbcuni.com or 312-836-5737 to follow up.

This just in from Kathryn Janicek...

Here are examples of school supplies I am told the children need:

Backpacks
Solar powered alarm clocks
Ballpoint pens
#2 pencils
Pencil sharpeners
Spiraled notebooks
Folders
Filler paper
Crayons
Colored pencils
Erasers
Supply cases/boxes
Protractors
Rulers
Flash drives
Weekly planners

Please let me know if you'd like to donate live on next Wednesday's show -- and I'll make sure to carve out time for your company.

Want to be on the radio with WGN's Rick Kogan?

2010-07-21T01:15:00.014-05:00

Updated September 2010

Journalist Leah Pietrusiak made the top bid for being on the radio with Rick Kogan. She sat in with him as he had on other guests and she did a great job. I asked her what inspired her to bid and what she'd want to talk about with Rick. Here's her reply:

When I was in journalism school and people would ask me what I wanted to write about, I would always say, "I just want to write about people." And when I first read Rick's "Sidewalks" column in the Trib, I was like, Ah! I want to meet him. I always thought about asking him out to lunch, but never went through with it.

I've thought about contacting him on and off over the years, for inspiration. I've been working on a book of short stories centered around my dad's parents and their house in Humboldt Park--my grampa, who passed away a year ago, lived in the same house in for over 80 years. It's the same three-flat I live in now, on the second floor apartment above my gramma. It's the house where my dad grew up and my uncles grew up, and their cousins too, on the floors above.

The book will basically be Chicago history told through my family's stories. My uncle once grabbed my dad's collar (my dad left the priesthood to marry my mom) to go out and see if he could help in any way during the Puerto Rican riots of the 60s and 70s. My grampa delivered bread by horse through the streets of Chicago. And my grandparents never moved out of Humboldt Park as the neighborhood changed; when it started becoming Puerto Rican, they stayed at the church they'd worshiped at for so long, welcomed their new neighbors, and learned to sing some of the songs in Spanish.

As I'm thinking about it, that's something I might like to talk about--and just about storytelling, and how Rick collects information. It'll motivate me to work more on the stories, in preparation for the show, and finally push through and get the book done. Rick Kogan and deadlines--two great motivators!

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For the benefit of the Association for Women Journalists-Chicago and its members in its AWJ-TV continuing education program, Tribune columnist and WGN Radio host Rick Kogan is allowing the association to auction the chance to be on his radio show.

The winner of this online/silent auction and three friends can join Rick in studio during his “The Sunday Papers” program, 6:30-9 a.m. Sundays, and get the chance to be on the air for a segment of the show. In addition, you’ll receive autographed copies of Rick “A Chicago Tavern: A Goat, a Curse, and the American Dream,” his history of the Billy Goat, and “Sidewalks,” a collection of his Tribune columns, embellished by the photography of Kafein denizen Charles Osgood. Rick might also pop for coffee and donuts 'cause that's the kind of guy he is.

Bidding just started this morning.

Here's how it works:

Anyone within the sound of my voice--journalists and the public alike--is encouraged to bid on being on the radio with Rick. Bidding starts at $50. Bidders can up their bids in $5 increments. Bids should be sent to awjraffle@gmail.com.

Fine print: If there is more than one bid of $50, the first email received will hold that bid, a practice that will continue as the bids increase. For example, if two bids come in for $100, the first one to arrive will hold the $100 spot until a higher bid is made.

Announcements of the amount and name of the high bidder will be emailed frequently to all bidders, but certainly as least once daily, early in the morning.

Bidders should include a name, address and telephone number on the bid email. The address and telephone number will not be shared, but your name will be included when the updated bid announcements are emailed.

Online bidding closes at 11:59 p.m. on Wednesday, July 28, the day before AWJ-Chicago annual summer picnic, where members can have one last chance to be the highest bidder. The winner will be announced the evening of July 29.

The Association for Women Journalists-Chicago has been supporting women in journalism and promoting fair and accurate treatment of women by the media since 1993. Its members include some of the most talented and influential journalists working in print, broadcast, online and academia on the planet.

If you have any questions, contact the multi-talented Terri Colby at terricolby@gmail.com.
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I'm in my third year as president of the Association for Women Journalists-Chicago. I started its listserv 10 years ago.

Scenes from Evanston's Fourth of July Parade

2010-07-08T11:11:00.015-05:00

I'd not been actually in a parade since dressing as a clown for a homecoming parade during my Niles North days. On the other hand, as a photojournalist I've walk with many a Fourth of July parade sometimes covering four in one day...and have gone with Joel to many he was covering.

This year I chose to focus more on what was going on on the curb than in the street and had a good time just getting pictures of some neighbors.

Looking forward to your comments. If you know these folks and are up for sharing their names with me, I'd be appreciative.

Karen

The Vernon-Wallace clan (left to right): Tia Vernon Wallace, Mark Wallace, Michael Vernon, Robin Wallace surely being harassed by both her uncle Michael and her sister Robin Wallace.

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Joel and I marched with the Rotary Club of Evanston this year.

Young Elliot Kreuz with Gene Servillo. That's Rosie Rees at the wheel.

Karena Bierman rides with a fellow Rotarian.

The Baumbergers.

More to come.

Share what you've learned so far now

2010-06-24T12:18:00.003-05:00

This just in from Jennifer Fernicola Ronay...

In my ongoing search for work that is fulfilling and meaningful, I am participating in a project with SoFar Publishing where we will be interviewing people who are dealing with a terminal illness. The final product will be a book that aims to answer the question "What have you learned so far?"

As it states on the website, "the project not only offers participants a chance to reflect on their lives, but also an opportunity to leave a legacy that touches friends, family and perhaps even the entire world."

If you know anyone who might want to share their story, please let me know. I can be contacted at jen.fernicola@gmail.com.

................................................................................................................................................
Jennifer is a lawyer and CPA turned writer/reporter/blogger. She's experimenting with a year of thank you's. She's on Twitter at @fernronay.

Entertaining journalists perform to aid colleagues on July 1

2010-06-21T09:04:00.008-05:00

Update: This just in from Steve Franklin - We'll start with a jazz group anchored by Curtis Black and John Atkins--check out Curtis' video on YouTube--then blues by Mike Hirsley and his son Quentin, then Lou Carlozo on guitar on Jim Quinn on drums, and finally Mary Schmich, on piano, and Eric Zorn on guitar leading us in a not-for-Xmas singalong and if anyone wants to get up and tell a story or make a statement about what we are doing, they are more than welcome.

Journalists especially have taken hard hits during these bizarre economic times. Like other professionals, their careers and economic well-being have been threatened during this recession. News outlets shifting revenue streams and changing business models have exacerbated the situation. I don't know one news outlet in Chicago that hasn't had layoffs. (If you know any, let me know.) The mass layoff done in one single day at the Tribune last year I call the April 09 Purge. The Tribune eliminated some excellent journalist, many of them friends of mine.

With this in mind, through the Chicago Headline Club, Tribune alumni Flynn McRoberts and Steve Franklin and other journalists are putting on a show for money, money to be used to help journos get new gear, additional training and other support. The public is invited.

Piano player and Trib columnist Mary Schmich, horn blower and journalist Curtis Black and Tribune alum John Adkins are scheduled to perform. Headline Club president Sue Stevens reports that booking a folk group is in the works. I might sign myself up to tell a joke, one joke, if they let me. We'll see.

"We don't think we'll raise enough to allow us to offer large amounts to our colleagues, but we hope that this gesture will remind our colleagues that we don't forget those of us who have run into bad luck and that it will help to work together...," says Steve Franklin, now with Community Media Workshop (one of my former employers).

When: July 1, 8 p.m.

Where: Rogers Park's Heartland Cafe, 7000 N. Glenwood Ave., Chicago

Why: Fun and fundraising

How much: $10 (or more, if you can afford it) donation at the door. $5 for students

Donations are tax deductible

For more information on how volunteer at the show, how to donate and who else might be performing, contact Steve Franklin at steve@newstips.org or stevebey@live.com.

Cormerstones for Cooperation

2010-05-29T08:57:00.008-05:00

In 1993 I helped establish a charitable organization of photographers, journalists and other community members called PICTURE THIS Projects. It is still kicking, still encouraging creative expression and self-esteem and helping bridge the gap between people of different backgrounds through a variety of photography projects. I'll share stories soon about a big project we did 10 years ago in Evanston.

During our first year, some of our foremothers crafted these guidelines. They serve as our "rules". It helps set expectations of conduct within the group. It describes what is commonly thought of as appropriate ways of working together productively. Both the kids and coaches involved in cerrtain project are asked to sign the pledge.

I'm sharing here as food for thought and in case others might find them useful.

CORNERSTONES FOR COOPERATION
A Team Member's "Pledge to my Peers"

We are colleagues with a common vision and mission. I will trust you and depend on you to help me in meeting that vision and mission. I pledge to meet my commitment to you as a member of the PICTURE THIS team and expect that you will meet your commitment to me.

I commit myself to practicing these principles:

maintaining and enhancing self-esteem
listening and responding with empathy
asking for help in solving problems

I accept my individual and/or collective responsibility to solve problems. It's not important
to fix the blame.

I will seek opportunities to compliment you for the contributions you have made.

I will ask you for feedback about my behavior and respond openly to your request for
feedback.

I will talk directly to you about any problems I have with you, instead of complaining to
others about you.

I accept that all decisions are not perfect and if I disagree I will do so openly and at the same
time present possible alternatives. However, once a decision is made, I will strive to make it
work. If I find a decision is not workable, I will work through the appropriate decision-making
channels to have such decisions reconsidered, modified and rescinded.

I will hold other members of the team accountable for fulfilling the above agreements,
remembering first my commitment to you and the other team members.

Social Media for Work and Play May 27

2010-05-20T11:41:00.007-05:00

Where there's no such thing as a dumb question.

Beginners and experienced social media users are invited to this discussion that will help demystify social media and offer ideas for using Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn and other online tools most productively. You can expect to learn something useful whether you are using social media for personal reasons or business purposes, or aim to.

When: 6 p.m. Thursday, May 27

Where: Waukegan Public Library's Bradbury Room
128 N. County Street
Waukegan, IL 60085

Cost: Free

I will offer a quick overview before leading a panel discussion and Q and A with:
- Jo-An Takamoto Sabonjian, operative at Little Fort Media and the Office of Susan Garrett
- Bill Oakes, former online director for ChicagoMag.com
- David Motley, Director of Public Relations and Marketing for the City of Waukegan
- and possibly one other.

RSVP at on Facebook, on Waukegan Public Library's website or at 847-623-2041, ext. 234.

Consider posing the questions you already have on the Facebook event page.

Not widely known is that I tweet about Waukegan and other interesting things at @WaukeganLive.

Joel's favorite 2009 photos for Evanston

2009-12-31T19:03:00.006-06:00

Annually Pioneer Press' photographers are asked to selects some of their favorite picture of the year for a year-in-review section. Here's some of Joel Lerner's picks from the Evanston Review.

A packed Beardsley Gymnasium stands and listens as Barack Obama is takes the oath to become the 44th President of the United States at Evanston Township H.S. on January 20, 2009.

Evanston's Nicole Brown saves the ball off of Glenbrok South's Danielle Drews at a home game in February.

Second-grader Grace Loveland of Evanston (center) exercises along with her classmates and Northwestern wide receiver Jeff Yarbrough as part of a program called "Game On! The Ultimate Wellness Challenge" at St. Joan of Arc School in February.

Joan of Arc principal Gail Hulse (left) and 1st graders Alexandra Renoult-Orlandini (middle) and Halina Osojnak dance in class as part of the "Game On! The Ultimate Wellness Challenge."

Bessie Rhodes' Alyssa Nichols, Julia Larson, John Hruska and Sarah Cooper ponder a question during the District 65 Health Bowl held at the Frank Auditorium at Evanston Hospital in January.

ETHS graduate Stephanie Marquez give ETHS faculty Taya Kinzie a hug after receiving her diploma in June.

Tiffany Baltimore's family reacts as the ETHS 2009 graduate proceeds into the the Welsh-Ryan Arena for graduation in June.

The Evanston Library Precision Book Cart Team twirl their way down Central Ave. during the Evanston Fourth of July Parade. From left to right: Rick Kinnebrew, Beth McGuire, Lea Solis and Nancy Engel.

The Wellness Revolution shop in downtown Evanston marched down Central St. as a spine to highlight their chiropractic services during the Evanston 4th of July Parade.

All in red, white and blue, the Rearbon family, who moved to Evanston from Australia just 5 months previous, meet Governor of Illinois Pat Quinn during the Evanston Fourth of July Parade.

Kevin Schrieber of Chicago, takes on the Triple Undisputed at Weiner and Still Champion, a 9 patty, 11 American cheese slice colossus in October. Reporter Irv Leavitt didn't dare take it on.

Evanton's Morgan Fitzpatrick runs back to the dugout of the new field at Evanston Township H.S. with the flag after the National Anthem, before the first game at the field in March.

Evanston's Colleen Harper competes in floor exercise at a New Trier girls gymnastics meet in January 2009.

This photo would have run in the first Evanston Review of 2009: Levi Laber of the Cheder Lubavich Hebrew Day School uses the shamash to keep his hands warm before Evanston Chanukah Menorah lighting in Fountain Square in December 2008.

Santa's Express rides the Purple Line

2009-12-23T22:16:00.014-06:00

Joel Lerner, while on duty for Pioneer Press, caught these images while covering Santa's Express train action on the CTA's Purple line Tuesday, December 22, 2009.

CTA's Holiday Train pulls into the Howard St. station.

Twelve-year-old Angeles Lopez shakes hands with Santa during the CTA's Holiday Train's stop at the Howard St. station.

Evanston's Matthew (left) with his sister Anna Clemson.

Three-year-old Khendal Terrell of Evanston gets some candy canes from Santa's helper, Ian.

Castanza Wilson of Skokie,with her godson Marocco Vaughn, 4, shoots a picture in the Linden St. station.

Sarah Quish of Wilmette leads her son Emmett, 3, back onto the CTA Holiday Train with everyone else at the Linden St. station for the trip south.

Five-year-old Jason McDermott of Evanston poses with Santa in the Linden St. station.

Sam, Allie, and Abbie Deyhle of Evanston poses with Santa in front of CTA Purple Line Holiday Train on Tuesday evening.

From the family archives: Karen in front of 1218 Hartrey

2009-12-23T11:40:00.007-06:00

That's me. Little Karen Kring in front of her grandparent's home at 1218 Hartrey in Evanston in the early 1960s.

My grandparents, Mildred and Lawrence Swarthout built the home at 1218 Hartrey, just south of Dempster.

The photographer is facing east. In the background is what used to be Apeco.

One has to appreciate the effort the photographer made to get low in the snow to make this picture.

Eye on the Prize: Shifting from Reacting to Teaching & Learning

2009-11-19T18:12:00.016-06:00

by Michael J. Banks, Ph.D.

Years ago, a couple was driving through the mountains near Boulder, Colorado. As the husband steered their car through a number of turns, his wife started to feel a little carsick. When she mentioned this to her husband, he said that he was feeling fine. She was a very resourceful woman who believed that "if it’s possible for one, it’s possible for anyone". So, instead of feeling annoyed, frustrated, or angry with her husband, she became very curious. She wondered how it was possible for him to be feeling fine while she felt dizzy and nauseous.

Right away, she noticed that he was leaning back comfortably in his seat, while she was tensely leaning forward watching the road in front of the car. Taking a cue from her husband, she settled back and quickly her focus shifted from the front of the car out to the horizon. When she asked her husband about his visual focus, he said that he was almost always aware of the mountain range in the distance even while negotiating sharp turns. Within a few moments after her shift in focus, her dizziness subsided and her nausea went away.

Often when we parents correct our kids, our focus is on the immediate situation instead of the long-term horizon. Out of stress, annoyance, and frustration, we often snap at our kids. We yell, we send them to their rooms, and we sometimes say hurtful things that we later regret. What we also do is miss an opportunity to teach and learn with our kids.

One afternoon, a few years ago, I went to pick up my sons from school. My younger son, Morgan, who was about six at the time, came running up to me and asked me to hold his Gameboy. He said that he needed to talk to a friend and would be right back. When I looked at his Gameboy, I noticed that is was still on. So, I switched it off to save the battery. When Morgan returned, I gave the Gameboy back to him. Immediately, he got very angry and yelled at me because in turning off the Gameboy, I had lost the progress he’d been making. While it was OK with me for my son to feel angry, it was not OK with me for him to talk to me the way that he did. I angrily took his Gameboy from him and told him to get in the car.

My anger didn’t last very long. By the time we got home (about 10 minutes later) my focus had shifted from the immediate to the long-term, which made a very productive exchange possible:

First, I explained to my son why I’d gotten angry (being talked to disrespectfully) and encouraged him to explain to me why he’d gotten upset (losing progress in the game).
Next, I told him that in the future when someone did something that he didn’t like, he should let them know, in a respectful manner, what was the matter and what he’d like them to do differently in the future.
Then, we practiced the new scenario. Morgan gave me his Gameboy. I turned it off. He told me what I’d done wrong and explained what he wanted me to do differently in the future.
As a result, we both felt better. I had taught my son a more effective way to deal with a negative situation. He had gotten his dad to really understand him and how to handle his Gameboy.

While that situation was resolved nicely, what has been particularly gratifying is that this pattern of relating continues to persist in our family to this day. If I’d simply kept my eye on the immediate situation, an opportunity for long-term learning and relationship building would have been lost.

Eye On the Prize

Identify Your Reactive Response: The point here is to realize that your knee-jerk reactions often provide feedback about things that are important to you. What you can do here is simply pause and ask yourself, “What was important to me in this situation?” Or, “What is the message being signaled?” In the Gameboy example, it was important to me to be treated with respect as well as for my son to act respectfully.
Appreciate Your Emotions: Being in touch with our feelings, plays a critical role in living well. Be aware of your response and appreciate the message that it is signaling to you. In the above example, my anger was in response to being talked to in a disrespectful manner and led to a constructive change.
Shift Your Focus: Look beyond the immediate event to the longer-term lesson or goal you can have for your child. Ask yourself, “What would I like my child to do differently in the future?” Or, “What would I like my child to learn from this experience?” This shift in focus will move you out of a reactive mindset and into a teaching or coaching mode.
Seek First to Understand: Before you attempt to influence your child’s behavior in a new direction, take time to develop a mutual understanding of the problem. In the Gameboy example, Morgan & I were able to understand each other. This mutual understanding prepares the way for coaching new behavior.
Rehearse a New Response: This is where we as parents put on our teaching or coaching hats and show our kids a new response. In the Gameboy example, Morgan and I replayed the triggering event but with new behaviors. Be clear about what you’d like your child to learn or do differently and rehearse the new behavior you’d like to see in the future.
Monitor Results: In the days, weeks, and months to come, monitor the impact of your coaching. Appreciate any signs of success by acknowledging your child’s progress. After the Gameboy incident, I happily noticed a positive change in Morgan’s behavior with his older brother as well as with others, which I acknowledged. If there are setbacks or if the problem persists, gently revisit coaching by recycling through the steps of the process with your child. Sometimes, it takes several cycles before a new habit of behavior is formed.

Discussion: In some Native American traditions, leaders were taught to make decisions with respect for their forbearers and concern for their descendants.

As you incorporate this pattern into your parenting style, it might be useful to keep your own grandchildren in mind. As you are correcting your children today, you are also influencing how they will parent their children in the years to come. By keeping your future grandchildren in mind, you will have your eye on the horizon of tomorrow while dealing with the twists and turns of today.

This article has focused on the parent-child relationship, but you can apply this approach to any relationship. The point is to calmly and respectfully let the other person know what you’d like them to do differently. Instead of focusing angrily on what has happened, you let the other person know your preference by saying, “In the future, I’d prefer you do this.”

A Refinement: Although the behavioral rehearsal step is very important for young children, it often isn’t necessary with adults and teens. A simple verbal request can do. However, I’ve found that having clients and seminar participants actually practice new behavior is far more effective than simple verbal discussion. So, you might try the behavioral rehearsal whenever simple verbal request isn’t enough.

In Conclusion: I hope that as you shift your focus away from an immediate problem and become curious about the learning opportunity it presents, you will start to take steps to turn your hopes and aspirations for your child into reality.
..............................................................................................................................................

Michael J. Banks, Ph.D. is a clinical psychologist, health & life coach, trainer, and consultant. His mission is to assist others in developing the skills that they need to improve their health, enhance their lives, and turn their dreams into reality. He is happily married and the very proud father of two delightful sons both students at Pope John XXIII. To get information about his training seminars, consulting, or health & life coaching, see Boundaries Unlimited online or contact him via 773-262-2794 or MJBndunltd@aol.com.
© 2009, Michael J. Banks, Ph.D.

Free writing classes at NU Dec 5 and 6

2009-11-19T17:00:00.001-06:00

This just in...

For the fifth year in a row, students in Northwestern's MA/MFA in Creative Writing program are offering short, FREE writing classes on the Evanston campus.

The dates are Saturday and Sunday, Dec. 5 and 6, and you can get more info by e-mailing scs@northwestern.edu. You can sign up for one class, all of them, or any number in between.

WTTW invites the public to "Health Secrets" taping

2009-11-03T17:50:00.003-06:00

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This just in from ETHS alum, Class of 2002, Lindsay Miller, now with WTTW...

WTTW/Channel 11 and Northwestern Memorial Hospital have partnered to inform and inspire women to take control of their health.

Health Secrets: What Every Woman Should Know is a four-part television series being taped at WTTW. The public is invited to be part of the program.

Hosted by award-winning journalist Paula Zahn, each one-hour program is aimed at different points in a woman’s life. From teenage body image issues to menopause to life after being diagnosed with a serious illness, these programs will benefit women in all stages of life; each of the four programs examines the challenges that women face throughout their lives.

> Coming of Age
Thursday, November 12, 6:30pm-8:30pm
Helping mothers talk to their teens about body image, obesity, eating disorders, and the HPV vaccine

> Reproductive Years
Friday, November 13, 5:30pm-8:00pm
Starting a family, infertility, balancing family and work, and stress management

> Menopause and Beyond
Thursday, December 3, 6:00pm-7:30pm
Menopause, alternative choices to staying healthy, integrative medicine, and
age-appropriate screenings

> Healthy living and options after a difficult diagnosis
Friday, December 4, 5:30pm-8:00pm
Disease prevention and the options available when dealing with heart attack, stroke
or cancer diagnosis

This program is free and open to the public. Seating is limited. If you are interested in being an audience member for any of the four programs or would like additional information, please contact Lindsay Miller, Audience Coordinator at WTTW, at lmiller@wttw.com or 773-509-5473.
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Wacky Cake

2009-10-31T23:44:00.016-05:00

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My friend and Evanston neighbor Suzanne Cosgrove treated some of her friends and colleagues to her homemade cupcakes today, which inspired me to make some cupcakes today myself.

Here's my family's recipe for Wacky Cake. It requires no eggs. I know no other cake recipes that includes vinegar. You don't have to grease your baking pan. In fact, you can mix it in your baking pan, thus saving yourself one less bowl to clean.

Wacky Cake

1-1/2 Cup flour
1 Cup sugar
1 t. baking soda
3 T. cocoa
1/4 t. salt
1 t. vanilla
1 t. vinegar
6 T. melted butter
1 Cup warm water

Sift all dry ingredients into an 8" cake pan, or into a 9" x 13" pan if you double the recipe.
Make three holes in the flour mixture for vanilla, vinegar an butter.
Pour warm water over all.
Mix well an bake at 350 degrees for 30 minutes.
Frost if you want to.

To make cupcakes mix in a bowl. A single batch will make about 12 cupcakes.

Our family got this recipe from our Morton Grove neighbor Eunice Mattes.
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From the family archives: Joel, Elita and Rona on Mulford

2009-10-26T11:13:00.002-05:00

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Rona Lerner, with her children Joel and Elita, in front of their then home at 1620 Mulford in Evanston in the summer of 1970.

Joel is my husband. He currently lives in Skokie, but as a photojournalist for Pioneer Press, shooting for the Evanston Review, he's there a lot. Elita lives in Atlanta and works for S.C. Johnson. Both are ETHS alumni. Rona was a Chicago Public School teacher for more than 30 years. She passed away in the spring of 2007.

Portrait Fun with Maura and Karen October 23 in Chicago

2009-10-15T21:04:00.017-05:00

Dear Friends and Neighbors,

Having a good portrait made of yourself is a good idea no matter what profession you are in or ambitions you have. You never know when someone might want to write about you in a news article, like the one Garrett Popcorn's Alecia Dantico was featured in. And then there's LinkedIn, Facebook, Twitter and other social media sites that ask for profile pictures.

Getting a professional portrait made, that you actually like, that works for you, is usually pricey. This is why Maura Hernandez and I put our heads together to figure out how we could help our friends, colleagues and acquaintances get some good portraits made at a relatively reasonable price.

Friday, October 23, noon - 3 p.m., Maura and I will be making portraits at 9 W. Washington in Chicago for $75. We'll both shoot a whole bunch of pictures of you and we'll deliver six or more images files to you for your personal use.

A portion of all proceeds will go to the Association for Women Journalists-Chicago's scholarship fund.

Sign-up and pay for Portrait Fun here: http://portraitfun.eventbrite.com.

No refunds for no-shows, but you can come to another portrait session yet to be schedule.

Questions? Contact me at karen@kringlernergroup.com.

Best,
Karen Kring/@EvanstonLive
http://kringlernergroup.com

Some portraits I've made for fun, money, sometimes both, are on Facebook:
- Emily Lonigro, owner, LimeRed Studio
- Dr. Barbara K. Iverson, professor, Columbia College
- Cheryl Corley, reporter, National Public Radio
- Monty Cole, actor, writer, director
- Michael M. Lorge, trustee, Village of Skokie
- Pam McKuen, independent journalist and journalism instructor
- Ramon DeLeon, operating partner, Domino's Pizza
- Justin G. Roy, co-founder, Networking for a Cause and TweetNetworking

TweetCamp Oct 10: Where there's no such thing as a dumb question

2009-10-01T18:03:00.007-05:00

The Association for Women Journalists-Chicago invites you to TweetCamp Chicago, a day-long “unconference” for anyone interested in utilizing Twitter professionally, or just learning more about it.

Emerging media specialist and blogger Keidra Chaney and journalist and social media consultant Maura Hernandez have organized this educational opportunity not just for journalists, but also marketing and public relations pros, entrepreneurs, developers, educators, consultants, artists and others. Anyone wanting to figure out Twitter and social media is invited to this potent and affordable day of learning.

When: Saturday, October 10, 10 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.
Where: Columbia College Chicago’s Film Row Cinema
1104 S. Wabash, Chicago

Cost: $35 - non-members and the general public
Profits from the event will go to AWJ's scholarship fund

Lunch provided to all. Door prizes will be raffled.

Speakers and session leaders will include Twitter users:

Scott Smith, Playboy.com
Craig Kanalley, Breaking Tweets
Mari Luangrath, Foiled Cupcakes
Alecia Dantico, Garrett's Popcorn
Ramon DeLeon, Domino's Pizza

Columbia College's Dr. Barbara K. Iverson is expected too.
Chicago Tribune's Alicia Eler aims to talk with others about Twitter and arts writing.

Kathryn Janicek, Supervising News Producer at WGN-TV
John Cary, newly named Director of Interactive at Time Out Chicago
Mary Jo Maffei, Production Asst at WFLD-Fox Chicago News
Sally Duros, Independent Journalist
Lauran Berta, Web Coordinator, Sun-Times News Group

What makes this conference an unconference is that the content of most of the sessions will be determined on the day. For example, if a participant wants to discuss how one decides what to keep private and what to reveal online, a time and space can be posted on the big board they'll be using to create the schedule.

Like some other unconferences, it will not be about some participants being "teachers" and some "student". Everyone will have something to teach and everyone will have something to learn. Yes, even the self-described experts will learn something and even those feeling tech-challenged will have something to teach. There will be no such thing as a dumb questions.

Further developments will be announced on the TweetCamp blog as they happen.

Spots are limited. You must register on the TweetCamp Chicago registration page.

If you have questions, contact Maura at tweetcampchicago@gmail.com.

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Karen Kring here: I aim to be there too and plan to propose and participate in a session about how and why to get started on Twitter. I'll share some of what I know, but will also be interested in listening to what non-users and new users have to say. Some Evanston folks know that I tweet from Evanston Live

I recently asked Keidra Chaney what advice she has for people who find Twitter and social media scary or useless.

Here's her reply: I think social media, at its best, is a fantastic tool to bolster and strengthen real-life relationships and to communicate with a broader audience about news/events. I think one of the biggest misconception is that it's for tech savvy youth. Honestly it's not about technology, but it is about getting used to a multi-level two-way conversation, communicating with people and expecting - even anticipating a direct response. That's hard for a lot of people to get use to... But it's really liberating, even democratic. It's great to see a platform where lots of different voices get to be heard without filters. A lot of my daily job is evangelizing about social media, and honestly, it is not for everyone, especially Twitter, which can be really time-consuming.

From the family archives: Larry with Buttons at 1218 Hartrey

2009-09-13T22:16:00.007-05:00

Lawrence Swarthout, Jr. with Buttons in front of his then home at 1218 Hartrey, Evanston. January 1952.
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Larry Jr. is my uncle and his parents built this home.

Like his father, he was a plumber. He worked for L.C. Swarthout Plumbing and Heating and later F. J. Kerrigan Plumbing until her retired. Larry passed away in August 2008. Larry Jr's son, Michael, is also in the business.