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Help Wanted! RNRA has Leadership Team Opportunities. Click here for details.
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Thanks to Our Annual Sponsors
Admiral Security Services 5940 W. Touhy #130 Niles, IL 60714
Ai Japanese Restaurant 358 W. Ontario #1B Chicago, IL 60610
Bluprint Restaurant & Lounge North Lobby Merchandise Mart 312-410-9800
The Building Group Property Management Experts 773-989-8100
Cambium Furniture & Kitchens 113-119 W. Hubbard Chicago, IL 60610 312-832-9920
Caribou Coffee 600 N. Kingsbury Chicago, IL 60654 312-335-0576
Children's Memorial Hospital 2300 Children's Plaza Chicago, IL 60614 800-KIDS DOC
Chiro/Medica 520 W. Erie Suite LL20 Chicago, IL 60610 312-440-0477
Chicago Dance 415 W Huron Chicago, IL 60610 312-337-9503
Citizen Bar 364 W Erie Chicago, IL 60610 312-640-1156
Cleanslate Chicago 703 W Monroe Chicago, IL 60661 773-858-7611
Enterprise Rent-A-Car
160 W Kinzie Street
Erie Cafe
536 W Erie Street
Friends of the Chicago River
28 East
Jackson, Suite 1800
Harris, N.A. 33 W Ohio Street
at Deerborn
Help Ease Local Poverty
155 North Harbor Drive,
Suite 301
The Ink Well 57 W Grand Ave Suite 450 Chicago, IL 60610(312) 644-4700
It's Just Lunch
432 N. Clark Street
Kinzie Chophouse
400 N Wells Street
K&S/GMAC Home Services 750 North Orleans Kitsch'n River North
600 W Chicago Ave
The Krug Group Sudler-Sotheby's International Realty 1650 N Wells Chicago, IL 60614 312-981-3830
Levenfeld Pearlstein, LLC. 2 N. LaSalle #1300 Chicago, IL 60602 312-346-8380
Mambo Grill 412 N Clark Chicago, IL 60610 312-467-9797
Northwestern Memorial Hospital 251 E. Huron Street Chicago, IL 60611 312-926-2000
Northwestern Memorial Physicians Group 312-926-DOCS
Park Kingsbury Residences 660 N. Kingsbury Chicago, IL 60610 312-229-5660
Phoenix Rising 946 W. Randolph Suite 200 Chicago, IL 60607 312-850-3251
Redhead Piano Bar 16 W Ontario Chicago, IL 60610 312-640-1000
Reza's Restaurant 432 W Ontario Chicago, IL 60610 312-664.4500
River North Dog Owners Association
Rizzo Realty Group
1 E. Superior #604
Rock for Kids
314 W Institute
Symmetry Center
401 W Ontario #400
7-Eleven 601 N Kingsbury Chicago, IL 60610 312-335-8341
Zocalo Chicago 358 W Ontario Chicago, IL 60610 312-302-9977
New Feature! Click here to submit input on any topic!
For more local info, click here to visit the River North Journal of YoChicago.com.
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Previous Home Page Headlines
Progress
on Grand Avenue
Noise and vibration emanating from the Grand Avenue bridge have been significantly reduced as a result of the locking beams pictured here, as well as other interim measures implemented by CDOT.
Permanent repair of the bridge's locking mechanism is pending scheduling.
Clean
& Green, on May Seventeen!
River
North Postal Service issues
Post Office representatives, Alderman Reilly and local residents met on October 25 at the Dearborn Station to discuss a wide range of concerns regarding the quality of our mail service. Following a series of similar meetings earlier last year, USPS Managers issued a letter detailing service issues, remedial actions, implementation timelines, advice for consumers and customer service contact information. Click here to access the USPS letter.
Alley
Security
In response to reports of criminal activity and concerns expressed by adjacent residents, CDOT workers installed steel fencing at the east and west ends of an alley that runs between 600 Kingsbury and the Ontario feeder ramp. Thanks to Alderman Reilly's staff and CDOT officials for addressing this important local security issue in a timely manner.
America's
Largest Toy Drive: A Big Success!!!
Thanks to our generous donors, we collected an amazing 1,500 pounds of toys, in Nov 07 which will be distributed by Toys for Tots to needy Chicago families.
Clean Streets are Safe Streets!
Members of the team responsible for the River North Weekend Street Cleaning Program receive a Private Service Award at the Cook County Crime Stoppers annual dinner on September 6. From left: Interim CPD Superintendent Dana Starks, RNRA President Brian Israel, Chicago HRP Coordinator Michelle Joseph, Crime Stoppers President George McDade and Cleanslate Chicago Managing Director John Rush.
Quarterly RNRA Community Meeting
Shown below: Jackie Hayes of Help Ease Local Poverty, Erin Frisby of Rock for Kids and John Quail of Friends of the Chicago River receive contributions from RNRA Philanthropy Liaison Heather Vendel at Reza's Restaurant on Sep 25, 2007.
Thanks to Alderman Brendan Reilly and his staff, 18th District Officer Benny Wong, Kathy Caisley of the DPD, Jim Letchinger and colleagues from JDL Development and all of our attendees for making our Quarterly Community Meeting a success. Click here to see a PDF version of the slide show. Meeting minutes are available in the archives.
Community
Alert
Early on the morning of September 1, a fisherman drowned after being pushed into the water at Montrose Harbor by several unidentified individuals. The Chicago Police are asking anyone with information about this crime to contact Area 3 detectives at 312-744-8261. Click here for more details about the incident.
Recent
Crime Incidents
18th District Commander Steve Georgas and Deputy Chief Jim Keating addressed attendees at the July 17 film in Erie Park to reassure residents that the July 9 robbery of an NBA player's River North home, the July 13 aggravated battery near Hudson and Superior, and the July 17 SUV explosion outside of a local nightclub were isolated and unrelated incidents. In the first case it appears that the victim was specifically targeted. The second seems to be an unfortunate example of alcohol-fueled aggression and the third was the latest episode in a long standing dispute between two individuals. Still, the Commander encourages residents to be aware of their surroundings and to ensure that home and garage doors are secured and not to enter their garage or house if suspicious activity is noticed. "Never hesitate to call 911 to summon the Police, that is why we are there."
Larrabee
park improvements
Beginning on June 1, Bovis began grading the north parcel of Erie Park as part of an agreement with the Park District allowing them to stage in this area during construction of 700 North Larrabee. Bovis will only be grading and resurfacing the area. Further redevelopment will come in stages at the scheduling of the Park District. While the site is under construction, access to the park will not be allowed. Local dog owners will have to utilize the Ohio Street dog area.
New
CAPS Leadership Needed!
After many years of dedicated service, Cynthia Bathurst and Barbara Sapstein are stepping down as 18th District Advisory Council Chair and Vice-Chair. Those interested in exploring the possibility of taking on the key role of D.A.C. Chair should email the RNRA or call the 18th District Community Policing Office at 312-742-5778.
Utility
Rate Hikes
Alderman-Elect Brendan Reilly's office is compiling information with which to evaluate proposed utility rate increases for common areas in residential buildings in the 42nd Ward. They are interested in obtaining copies of local invoices or bills from January of 2006 until the present. Since we believe that good public policy must be based on a clear understanding of the facts, the RNRA encourages local condominium properties to comply with this request if possible.
Please contact Adam Gypalo at (312) 642-4242 or adam@reillyforchicago.com with any questions.
Reality TV Show in River North
A cable TV network wants to film "College Hill: Interns" at a location in our neighborhood. Build-out, preproduction and exterior filming will run from late May until mid-June and production will run from June 17 through July 21 on a 24/7 basis. The small crew will film the 8 cast members wherever they go for 6 weeks. The network states that they never cause any disruption and have had excellent relationships with their "host" communities in the past. Click here to view a letter from the Network Producer.
RNRA 2007
Election Update
There is no nobler calling than public service...
Please join us in congratulating former RNRA Treasurer Frank Krug of Two River Place, who will serve as Vice President through June of 2008, former EC member-at-large Mike Riordan of the Montgomery, who was elected Treasurer and Brian Israel of River Bank Lofts, who was elected to a second term as President. Mike's and Brian's terms will expire in June of 2009. Thanks also to our outgoing Vice President, Andrew Swedenborg. Mid-term Officers include Membership Officer Renee Reinglass and Secretary Thom Willis.
Troop 784, A True Success Story...
18th District Community Policing Sergeant Cynthia Schumann describes her experience with developing a local Brownie Scout Troop and the impact it has made on our community.
The 2007
Municipal Election is History
The River North Residents Association congratulates Mayor Richard M. Daley, City Clerk Miguel del Valle and City Treasurer Stephanie D. Neely on their victories in the February 27 Municipal Election.
We wish to express our sincere appreciation to Alderman Burton Natarus for his 36 years of distinguished public service to the 42nd Ward and the City of Chicago. His profound impact on the people who live and work in this community will be felt for years to come and we wish him good health, happiness and success in all future endeavors.
The River North Residents Association also congratulates incoming Alderman Brendan Reilly on his election and wishes him success in this important undertaking. We pledge to work closely with him as we have with his predecessor to continue to improve the quality of life in River North.
18th District Officer
Honored
Sergeant Cynthia Schumann of the 18th District Community Policing Office was presented with a Sage Award "for Leadership and Excellence in Advancing the Status of Women in Chicago Through Community Building". The award was presented by Mayor Richard M. Daley at a Women's History Month Ceremony at the Chicago Cultural Center on March 6.
Thanks For Your
Input!
Our 2006 Community Survey received nearly 400 responses from local residents and businesses on a variety of River North issues including parking policies, parent's resources, dog owner's resources and Erie Park programming. Click here to access the survey results. Your feedback helps us support and encourage public policies that improve the quality of life for our entire neighborhood. We appreciate your participation!
Hot Off The
Presses...
The second edition of "In The Loop", The Newsletter of Chicago's 42nd Ward is now available. Click here to view volume 2
Dog Electrical Shock
Hazard Resolved
In response to several recent incidents involving animals receiving electrical shocks after coming in contact with metal grates, the Office of Emergency Management and Communication shut the power off and arranged to have the wiring completely replaced by a city contractor. It was later determined that a failure in the insulation of one of the wires caused electrical energy to leak to the exposed metal where the dogs may have encountered it. The city contractor and all related subcontractors have been ordered, during all future installations or maintenance work, to completely inspect the wiring to ensure that this instance does not recur.
Thanks to the Alderman's Office, the OEMC and especially to Michelle Wiedman of the RNDOA for their efforts to resolve this important safety issue.
Please check here or www.rivernorthdogpark.com for updates.
Police Ask Residents to Attend
Hearing on March 9...
The owner of Kizoku, a local establishment that has been the
subject of numerous complaints from its Ontario Street neighbors,
was arrested last week and charged with 7 violations of City
ordinances. The hearing has been set for 9:00 AM on Friday
March 9 at Cook County Court 29 at Belmont & Western. 18th
District Commander Steve Georgas has requested that
interested local residents attend the proceedings to
represent the community and convey the seriousness of their
concerns to the Court.
RNDOA to Host
Fundraising Shindig
The River North Dog Owners Association and the Haymarket Group are sponsoring an event from 6:00 to 8:00 PM on Wednesday February 21 at the Erie Cafe, 536 West Erie, to raise funds for maintenance of River North's dog friendly areas.
Click here for more information.
National
Women's Heart Day Health Fair
Free, 15-minute heart screenings with counseling will be offered during the fair on Friday, February 16 from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Merchandise Mart in Chicago. The event is sponsored by Sister to Sister: Everyone Has A Heart Foundation, Inc®.
Click here for more information.
Neither
Rain
Nor Sleet Nor Dark of Night...
Alderman Natarus plans to host a Town Hall Meeting on Thursday, February 8th to address Postal Service Issues in River North. The meeting will begin at 6:30 PM at Westfield North Bridge, 520 N. Michigan Ave in the 4th Floor Mag Room. Click here for more information.
Happy New Year
River North From The RNRA!
A Grand Time Was
Had By All...
Thanks for joining us at the RNA/RNRA 2006 Holiday Extravaganza on December 13 in the beautiful lobby of Park National Bank. Approximately 500 attendees enjoyed delicious food, festive holiday libations, live swing music and great prizes!
Click here view a photo slide show of the event! Just click on Community Events and then River North Holiday Party 2006. Click here to hear a sample from: Bopology
Thanks again to our presenting sponsors: Diageo, Mambo Grill and Park National Bank, our supporting sponsors Ala Carte Entertainment and the Lodge Management Group and our co-host, the River North Association!
Alderman To
Developers: "Obey The Law..."
In a recent meeting with representatives of several major 42nd Ward developers, Alderman Natarus addresses the issue of noise and disruption during construction.
Troop
784, A True Success Story...
18th District Community Policing Sergeant Cynthia Schumann describes her experience with developing a local Brownie Scout Troop and the impact it has made on our community.
Carroll
Street Transitway Survey Results
A CDOT study is underway to assess potential ridership on a proposed transitway that would link the West Loop to River North, Michigan Avenue, Streeterville and Navy Pier. RNRA and RNA helped to conduct a survey of the River North Community regarding the proposed system.
Click here to access more information, survey results and a route map.
Debut
Edition of 42nd Ward Newsletter
Children's
Memorial Is Coming To Streeterville
The RNRA has been contacted by Patrick Magoon, President and CEO of Children's Memorial Hospital, who advised us that the new CMH facility will be located between Chicago Avenue on the north and Superior on the south. near the Prentice Women's Hospital. Ground breaking is planned for 2008 and opening in 2012. Members of our Executive Committee have met with CMH representatives to discuss opportunities to work together. More to come...
42nd Ward Alderman
Speaks Out On Cafe' Pet Proposal
Alderman Burt Natarus explains his opposition to an ordinance allowing dogs in Chicago's outdoor cafe's.
Letter To The
Community About Erie Park Use And Misuse
The River North Residents Association's Executive Committee is asking neighborhood dog owners to take steps to protect our new park...
Click here to access the letter
Click here for Alderman Natarus' July 17 Status Update Letter
Help Clean Up The
Bark In The Park!
The River North Dog Association is looking for volunteers to help out at 9:30 AM this Saturday September 23 with a project to remove the bark ground cover, which may be hazardous to the health of pets.
18th
District Officer Appreciation Day 2006
For 24 hours beginning at 5:00 AM on Thursday September 21, River North will express its heartfelt appreciation to our local Police Officers with meals, gifts and entertainment in the Community Room of the 18th District Station, 1160 North Larrabee.
Click here for more information
Erie Park
Opens!
As soon as the main section opened on August 15, 2006, local residents immediately gravitated to the area and reveled in the long-awaited experience of actually entering the park. They strolled along the paths, sat on the lush grass and gazed out at the river flowing by on the clear summer evening. It seemed to be every bit as beautiful and satisfying as they expected it to be since the plans were first announced several years ago.
Pending additions may include more trees, a fence along the south border, more benches, trash receptacles and lighting. Plans for future park enhancements include a children's playground and a designated dog area, although details and timelines for these amenities have yet to be confirmed.
Mayor Vetoes "Big Box" Ordinance
Alderman Natarus has pledged to vote to uphold the Mayor's veto, and encourages his City Council colleagues to do the same...
7th Annual River North
Rendezvous
From 5:00 to 8:30 PM on Thursday September 14
Enjoy art, music, food and beverages in River North's Gallery District
Alderman Natarus
Requests input on "Big Box" Ordinance
"Unfortunately, the "Big Box" ordinance was approved by the City Council on July 26th despite vocal opposition from the Mayor, myself and 13 of my colleagues. The good news is that Mayor Daley is considering exercising his authority to veto this legislation. But he needs to know that he has your strong support. Please tell me what you think about the possibility of a "Big Box" ordinance veto. I will share your feedback with the Mayor as well as my fellow Aldermen."
National
Night Out
Join 18th District Police Officers and CAPS Officials for the 50's themed anti-crime march, departing from the Near North Public Library and culminating in a barbecue party at the 18th District Station. The festivities begin at 6:30 PM on Tuesday August 1.
5th
Annual River North SummerFest a Hit!
Thanks to our sponsors, our vendors, our volunteers and our guests for making
SummerFest 2006 a Fabulous Success! The 5th Annual River North SummerFest was held on Sunday July 23 from Noon to 3:00 PM on Erie Street between Kingsbury and the River
Over 500 attendees made this our biggest and best summer celebration yet. Guests enjoyed live music from Chicago funk band KongFuzi, great food and beverages from 9 of River North's best restaurants, 22 local merchants, terrific prizes, entertainment for children and treats for pets. This festival was brought to you by the River North Residents Association and the River North Association with generous support from Presenting Sponsors: Erie LaSalle Body Shop and New Century Bank, and Supporting Sponsors: East Bank Club and Keller Williams Chicago Realty.
Click here to hear a clip from KongFuzi
Alderman
Natarus Opposes "Big Box" Ordinance
"Tomorrow, July 26th, the City Council will vote on a “Big Box” Ordinance that would establish a super-minimum wage just for large retail stores located in the City of Chicago. I will vote no on the ordinance and I need your support for my vote..."
Press
Conference Heralds Launch of Hospitality Initiative
On April 7 at the Palmer House Hilton, representatives of the local media were invited to witness the unveiling of the Chicago Hospitality Resource Partnership. Initiated by the California-based Responsible hospitality Institute, the CHRP is an organization representing city officials, local residents, the hospitality industry and other stakeholders working together to create safe and vibrant places to socialize. Its strategies new business orientation sessions, hospitality roundtables and an early assistance team to help at-risk establishments get back on track.
2006 RNRA Annual
Election Results
The Association's annual meeting and election was held on Tuesday June 27 at Reza's Restaurant. The following individuals were elected to two-year terms as officers of the RNRA, beginning on July 1, 2006. Andrew Swedenborg-Vice president, Thom Willis-Recording Secretary and Renee Reinglass-Membership Officer (a newly created position). The terms of the remaining two Officers: Frank Krug-Treasurer and Brian Israel-President, will expire in June of 2007. Congratulations and best wishes to the RNRA leadership team!
Updates to RNRA Bylaws Adopted
Since taking office last year, one of the RNRA Executive Committee's objectives has been to update the Association's Bylaws to better reflect our mission, objectives and structure. On June 27, 2006, the updated Bylaws were reviewed and formally adopted by the Board.
Changes
Approved for Planned "Ronsley Site" Development
Click here for additional information
Important Sculpture
Installed at Entrance to Erie Park
Alderman
Works to Improve mail Delivery
Education Zoning
Bonus Passes City Council
Religious
Symbols Get Support From Council
City
Council Passes Smoking Ban
Moratorium
on Late-Hour Liquor Licenses Passes City Council
Religious Symbols
get Support from City Counci
Proposed
Downtown Tax Hike Defeated
Crackdown
on Loud Motorcycles