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Roscoe Village Neighbors

2007 RVN Announcements

December 25

The board of directors of Roscoe Village Neighbors wishes you all a safe and happy holiday!

 

Winterfest

Blanketed in a layer of snow, Roscoe Village looked like a winter wonderland just in time for Winterfest.

Children and their families visited with Santa & Frosty, made holiday maracas & hot cocoa, watched

Mary Macaroni's Magic show and much, much more. 

 

Winterfest is a collaboration between RVN and RVCC and we want to thank our Winterfest crew as well as the generous donations of: 

 

Fifth Third Bank for the Horse Drawn Sleigh

Alderman Waguespack for the Trolley

Nanny Tax Company for Mary Macaroni

Lincoln Park Savings Bank

Conexion

Costello's

Chicago United Mortgage

Beat Kitchen

Four Treys

19th District Community Policing

Menard Johnson

Dun-Wel Printing

 

Please enjoy these photos of a wonderful Winterfest on Roscoe!

 

2007 Winterfest Sleigh.jpg

 

2007 Winterfest Santa.jpg

 

2007 Winterfest Band.jpg

 

2007 Winterfest Mary Macaroni.jpg

 

 

November 29

 

We hope you all had a very nice Thanksgiving and enjoyed some time with friends and family.  There are several holiday events and activities in the month of December that we’d like to share with you.

 

Decorate the Community Holiday Tree

Bring your festive spirit and your little elves to help us decorate the Community Holiday Tree this Saturday, December 1st at 10:00am in front of Costello’s (2015 W. Roscoe ). RVN will supply all the tree decorations as well as hot chocolate to all our volunteers. Several of these holiday decorations were created by our local Audubon students.  Additionally, we need a few strong guys to hang the garland on the light poles and hang the lights on the tree.  If you are able to hang garland and lights please RSVP to RVN at info@roscoevillage.org. 

 

Roscoe Village Christmas Tree Farm

Looking for the perfect Christmas tree?  No need to travel outside of Roscoe Village to find one this year.  J&J Landscaping, owned and operated by Audubon Parent John Balderson, will be selling Christmas Trees and wreaths at Audubon this season and donating $10 to Audubon for every tree sold!
This weekend and next weekend trees will be for sale on the west lawn of the garden (Cornelia and Hamilton). Fridays, 1-6pm and Saturdays and Sundays, 11am-6pm. Nov 30th-Dec 2nd and Dec 7-9th.
Trees start at just $50 (cash or check only) and include FREE delivery. (Don't forget to tip your delivery person!) Hurry while supplies last!

You can also visit J&J Headquarters at 1750 N. California weekdays 1-6pm to buy your tree. Just mention Audubon School and J&J will extend the same offer of donating $10 per tree purchased to Audubon.

 

Roscoe Village Tree Lighting Ceremony and Holiday Stroll

Kick off the Holiday Season in Roscoe Village ! Join us with Alderman Waguespack for our annual Tree Lighting Ceremony on Friday, December 7 at 6pm at Costello's (2015 West Roscoe ). Afterward, take in the festive ambience during the annual Roscoe Village Holiday Stroll, from 6-9pm. Enjoy evening activities at your favorite neighborhood boutiques, restaurants and galleries including festive cocktails and hors d'oeuvres, live music, wine tastings, trunk shows and more! Roscoe Village is the perfect place for the holidays!

 

Barnes and Noble Book Fair

Is there a person on your holiday list that loves a good book?  Audubon School invites you to their Book Fair on Saturday, December 8 from 9:00am to 11:00pm at Barnes and Noble (1441 W. Webster).  A percentage of your purchase will benefit Audubon School .  Thank you!

 

New Roscoe Village “Mature Adults” Group

We’ve heard your feedback.  Older adults would like to see more activities and events in Roscoe Village that are not just kid focused. As a result, RVN is starting a new Mature Adults Group for any adult 40 and older who would like to meet their peers, engage in social events, and experience this great city of Chicago .  If you are interested in joining this committee our first meeting will take place on Monday, December 10 at 10:00am at Starbucks ( 2023 W. Roscoe St ).  We welcome all new ideas.  We hope to see you there!

 

December Mom’s Night Out

Chicken Marsala , Veal Scalloppini, Tortelloni Pasta??? If these dishes aren’t enough to entice you, maybe a nice glass of Merlot and friendly conversation with your neighborhood gal pals will.  Come celebrate the holidays at Piazza Bella (2116 W. Roscoe) with other Roscoe Village moms on Thursday, December 13 at 7:00pm. Bring a friend or come make new ones at this fun evening out.  To RSVP please contact event coordinator Robin Kain at robinkain@sbcglobal.net

 

Roscoe Village Winterfest Celebration

Celebrate the season by gathering with friends and family in Roscoe Village on Sunday, December 16 from 2-6pm for our annual Winterfest Celebration. This year’s fest kicks off at 2pm at Roscoe and Oakley with a parade led by the Lane Tech Marching Band who will march east to Damen. The festival will feature many children's activities, choirs, a horse drawn sleigh and, of course, Santa! And don’t worry about getting to all the activities. Just hop the FREE trolley to ride to your next destination (see route below). Note, too, that Roscoe Street will be closed to auto traffic from Damen to Oakley for this event.

 

Winterfest trolley route – The free trolley will run from 2-6pm on Roscoe and Belmont between Oakley and Wolcott, and on Oakley, Damen and Wolcott between Belmont and Roscoe.

 

November14

 

Wow!  Roscoe Village is alive with color today.  Gold, orange and red leaves blanket the sidewalks, and the trees are magnificent.  We hope you are able to go for a walk today to enjoy both the warm temperatures and the beautiful foliage.

 

RVN Membership Meeting Tonight

Come join your friends and neighbors at the RVN November Membership Meeting tonight at 7:30pm at the Lincoln/Belmont Library (1659 W. Melrose ).  We will be discussing the upcoming Roscoe Village Underpass Mural Project, the revamped Street Parks and Environment Committee (SPEC), the new community bulletin board at Fellger Park and many more exciting topics. 

 

Charity Pub Crawl Wrap Up

Last weekend’s RVN Charity Pub Crawl was a huge success drawing 133 participants who donated hundreds of canned goods for the Common Pantry.  As a result of the pub crawl, RVN is proud to donate $1,375 of pub crawl revenues to support the Common Pantry’s Hot Meal Program.  Special thanks go to Black Rock for their delicious lunch; volunteers Colleen Flood Jr., Michelle Hittenmiller, and John from Four Treys; RVN board members Brian O’Connell and Chris Woods; and pub crawl coordinator Colleen Flood. 

 

Streets, Parks & Environment

After a bit of a hiatus RVN is revitalizing our Streets, Parks & Environment Committee (SPEC).  This committee works to beautify Roscoe Village , create and maintain green space and decrease Roscoe Village ’s carbon footprint.  We are looking for volunteers to share their ideas and lead certain projects. Even if you can spare just a couple of hours a month we would welcome your participation.  If you are interested in supporting the health of our ecosystem please join us at MoJo’s Café this Saturday, November 17 at 9:30am.  Coffee is on us!

 

The First Taste of Holiday  Sale , Nov 15th and 16th

Smarty Party has gathered their favorite  Chicago  artisans, jewelers and retailers for a fun, casual shopping experience over two evenings this week. There will be 10 fabulous vendors on hand, all local, woman-owned businesses, mostly from Roscoe   Village , including Audubon's own Kathy Argentar, Minou Janus and Spanish teacher Ms. Jolene Biesak.

Thursday evening (November 15th, 7pm -10pm) will be a" lady's night out" with free chair massages and wine tasting by West Lakeview Liquors! Fixture will be there with 20% off their hottest purses. Roscoe Village 's own Moms Club will be there as well! Gather the girls and join us!

 

Friday afternoon (November 16th, noon - 6pm) is a family shopping experience. Bring the kids, as Smarty Party will be sponsoring a free craft table, holiday movies on the big screen and holiday cookies.

Both events will take place at Smarty Party, located at 1846  W Belmont (at Wolcott), 773-687-0521. www.smartyparty.us

 

November 5

 

Here is the attachment that should have been included with the first RVN e-mail 

 

offender.doc

 

November 5

 

One of the many missions of Roscoe Village Neighbors is to keep our community informed of important information that affects your daily life.  We also feel very strongly about doing our part to keep this community safe.  Please read on about ways you can support this mission. Additionally, there are several fun activities taking place in the next couple of weeks that we hope you will enjoy.

Sex Offender Alert!

District 19, CAPS Management Team Leader, Lt. John Willner wants to alert parents that a registered sex offender was witnessed in the area of Audubon School .  His behavior caused enough concern that he was arrested.  Please see the attachment for the full report and picture of this offender.  If you see this man in the area of a school, playground or other area frequented by children, call 911 immediately. This offender is homeless and has been arrested in the 19th District before for various crimes, although not near any schools.

According to the law, this arrest did not qualify for a felony upgrade due to the fact he was not on school property. He was observed by a parent walking children to school, who thought enough of the incident to call 911 and sign the complaints necessary to have him arrested. If any Village parents or residents would like to appear in court as "court advocates" to support the parent who signed the complaint and demonstrate to the judge how seriously we take this matter, please appear in court on 21 November 2007, 9 a.m.  at Branch 29, located at 2452 W. Belmont Ave. If anyone has a question about appearing, contact Lt. Willner or his staff at the 19th District Community Policing Office, 312 744 5574.  Thanks for your help!

 

The Fall RVN Welcoming Reception

Due to the tremendous response to this event and the limited size of the venue the guest list has been closed.  If you have received confirmation from the Welcoming Committee we will see you tonight, November 5 from 6:30-8:30pm at LUSH, 2232 W. Roscoe St .   We unfortunately can not accept walk-ins.  The RVN Welcoming Committee will be hosting another reception in the spring and we have already started a guest list for this event.  Details of the spring event will be forthcoming.

 

RVN Charity Pub Crawl—This Saturday!

This is your last chance to register for the 14th RVN Charity Pub Crawl, Saturday November 10 from 1:30pm to 9:00pm

The Crawl Line-up is as follows:

1:30 p.m. Black Rock Tavern, 3614 N. Damen Ave.

3:00 p.m. Mulligans Public House, 2000 W. Roscoe St.

4:00 p.m. Village Tap, 2055 W. Roscoe St .

5:00 p.m. Riverview Tavern, 1958 W Rosoce St .

6:00 p.m. Four Moon Tavern, 1847 W. Roscoe St .

7:00 p.m. Four Treys Tavern, 3333 N. Damen Ave.

Proceeds from the event will be donated to The Common Pantry, our local food pantry at 3744 N. Damen Ave. So far, more than $18,000 has been raised at these neighborhood events. The Crawl kicks off with a complimentary lunch at Black Rock, 3614 N. Damen Ave. Participants are asked to bring along canned goods for the Food Pantry Collection Box. In return, each reveler will receive an official Roscoe Village Charity Pub Crawl T-shirt, lunch and drink specials at each pub. The cost is just $20.00 per person.

Participants may pay at the door, but please RSVP by email at info@RoscoeVillage.org to ensure adequate supplies of T-shirts and lunch.

 

Roscoe Village Moms Night Out

The next MNO will be on Thursday, November 15 at the Smarty Party “First Taste of Holiday” event.  From 7:00pm - 10:00pm, some of Chicago 's finest Holiday gifts will come to you! Smarty Party (1846 W. Roscoe) will be showing holiday movies on the big screen and have a free kid’s craft table to occupy the little ones.  Moms can enjoy holiday cookies and wine tasting while you shop. Wares from 11 local women-owned Chicago artisans, jewelers, and retailers will be offered in a fun casual shopping atmosphere. Free professional chair massages too! It should be a fabulous time for everyone. Hope to see you there!

 

Fellger Park Community Bulletin Board

Be on the look out for the arrival of the new RVN sponsored Community Bulletin Board at Fellger Park .  On one side of the sign will be “What’s News In Roscoe Village” with information from RVN about upcoming events and activities  On the other side will be space for neighborhood residents to post flyers for upcoming garage sales, job postings, nanny info, etc.  We have provided this space so that you will no longer have to post this information on the Fellger fence or playground equipment.  Please help us keep this board clean by taking down old messages and only posting what is relevant to the parents and families who frequent Fellger Park .  RVN is proud to say that the new Community Bulletin Board is made of 100% recycled material.

Help Improve our Local Parks

Staples is teaming up with the Chicago Bears to provide $25,000 for improvements to a Chicago Park District Park .  Chicagoans can visit www.StaplesDreamPark.com between now and Dec. 31, 20007 to vote for their area park. The park receiving the most votes will win $25,000, the second-place park will win $10,000 and the third-place park will receive $5,000 to help with park improvements. The 11 remaining parks will each receive $1,000. Voters will also be automatically entered into a drawing to meet Charles Tillman at Soldier Field for the announcement of the Dream Park Challenge winner. Please go online and Vote for Hamlin Park !!! 

Streets, Parks & Environment

The new Fellger Park Community Bulletin Board is just one of the many projects on which the RVN Streets, Parks & Environment Committee (SPEC) is working.  We have many ideas, but want to hear your ideas on ways to beautify this community, create and maintain green space, and decrease Roscoe Village ’s carbon footprint.  We are looking for volunteers to share their ideas and lead certain projects and others to volunteer just a couple of hours a month.  If you are interested in supporting the health of our ecosystem please join us at MoJo’s Café on Saturday, November 17 at 9:30am

 

Education on Education Re-cap

RVN wishes to thank Alderman Scott Waguespack, Jahn Principal Sulma Grigalunas, Audubon Principal John Price, Education Committee Chair Kathy Argentar and RVN board member Biran O’Connell for their time and energy spent on this years very informative Education on Education Seminar. This event was very helpful to parents in assisting them in making an important decision about their child’s education.

 

 

October 29

 

Halloween Parade & Party a Huge HIT!

Over 1400 residents turned out to partake in the 9th Annual Roscoe Village Neighbors Halloween Parade. The peppy music from the Lane Tech Marching Band and Jack Skellington and his family ushered the parade from Leavitt to Damen Ave. Kids then dispersed to trick or treat at local businesses.  Afterward, families walked over to Audubon to enjoy food, drinks and numerous Halloween activities created by Audubon teachers and staff. Praise and good cheer was voiced by the crowd for such a fun event.  RVN would like to express our appreciation to the following restaurants for their food donations:  Robey Pizza, Piazza Bella, Costello’s, Rudy’s, Pete’s Pizza & Jimmy John’s.  We’d also like to thank PepsiCo for their donation of over 500 drinks, Alderman Waguespack for the street closure barricades, The Lane Tech Marching Band, Distinct 19 police, and Audubon staff and teachers for their creative activities and welcoming of the community into their school.  This all would not have been possible without the tremendous time and energy of the RVN Boo Crew members:  Allie Lippert, Sherry McCrystal, Julie Loose, Sharon Weichman, Leah Argento, Cicely Wilson, Amy Antoniolli, Lisa Wilkins & Alison Kramme.  Finally, thank you to the over 1400 residents who turned out in costume to make this a tremendous community event!

 

 

Trick or Treating in Roscoe Village

Many little ghosts and goblins will be seen criss-crossing the neighborhood on Halloween Evening., October 31st.  Trick or treating begins at dusk (usually 5:00pm) and we ask that trick or treating end at 9:00pm so that the sound of doorbells doesn’t wake sleeping kids. 

 

Education on Education                                                                             

You're invited to the 6th Education on Education seminar, an event designed to give local families as many answers as possible about public school education in the City of Chicago—all in one evening. This year's event will take place on Thursday, November 1, at 7pm at Jahn School (3149 N. Wolcott). The evening will begin with an opening presentation followed by three breakout sessions during which attendees can choose from four or five concurrently running presentations. For a full list of topics please read the attached Education on Education Event Program.

 

Proposed Tax Increases

Alderman Flores will be hosting two community meetings to discuss the proposed 2008 City of Chicago budget including the proposed tax and fee increases. The meetings will take place on: Thursday, November 1, 2007 at 6:30 p.m. at the Goldblatt's Building, 1615 W. Chicago Ave.; and Tuesday, November 6, 2007 at 6:30 p.m. at the Bucktown Wicker Park Library, 1701 N Milwaukee Ave.

Comments can also be sent to Alderman Flores office through their website's online form by clicking this link: http://www.flores1stward.com/ContactUs/ContactUsForm/tabid/93/Default.aspx

 

Last Chance to Register for the RVN Welcoming Reception

Time is running out to RSVP to the Welcoming Reception on Monday, November 5 from 6:30-8:30pm at LUSH (2232 W. Roscoe St). If you have moved to Roscoe Village in the last 12 months, RVN would like to invite you to this complementary event.  Come enjoy wines paired with appetizers while mixing and mingling with other new neighbors, RVN Welcoming Committee members and the staff of LUSH. Each guest is given a Roscoe Village Welcoming Kit brimming with information and goodies from local businesses. Space is limited so please RSVP today by clicking on the NEW RESIDENTS tab on the RVN website at http://www.roscoevillage.org/.

 

Streets, Parks & Environment

Would you like to make a positive impact on your neighborhood, city and global environment?  If so, we invite you to join the new environmentally conscious Roscoe Village Neighbors Streets, Parks & Environment Committee (SPEC).  During our first meeting we will discuss our mission to beautify this community, create and maintain green space, and explore ways to decrease Roscoe Village’s carbon footprint.  We have a few ideas that we are currently working on and we welcome all new ideas.  Please join us in supporting the health of our ecosystem at MoJo’s Café on Saturday, November 17  at 9:30 a.m.

 

RVN Charity Pub Crawl

Join your friends and neighbors at the 14th RVN Charity Pub Crawl, Saturday November 10 from 1:30pm to 9:00pm

The Starting Line-up is as follows:

1:30 p.m. Black Rock Tavern, 3614 N. Damen Ave.

3:00 p.m. Mulligans Public House, 2000 W. Roscoe St.

4:00 p.m. Village Tap, 2055 W. Roscoe St.

5:00 p.m. Riverview Tavern, 1958 W Roscoe St.

6:00 p.m. Four Moon Tavern, 1847 W. Roscoe St.

7:00 p.m. Four Treys Tavern, 3333 N. Damen Ave.

Proceeds from the event will be donated to The Common Pantry (3744 N. Damen Ave.) our local food pantry. So far, more than $18,000 has been raised at these neighborhood events.

The Crawl kicks off with a complimentary lunch at Black Rock, 3614 N. Damen Ave.

Participants are asked to bring along canned goods for the Food Pantry Collection Box. In return, each reveler will receive an official Roscoe Village Charity Pub Crawl T-shirt, lunch and drink specials at each pub.

The cost is just $20.00 per person.

Participants may pay at the door, but please RSVP by email at info@RoscoeVillage.org to ensure adequate supplies of T-shirts and lunch.

 

 

Rabid Bat Found

On Wednesday, October 24, 2007 a bat was found in the vicinity of 1435 West Fletcher Avenue. It was submitted for rabies examination and determined to be rabid by the Illinois State Public Health Laboratory. All residents should keep their dogs, cats and ferrets on a leash when out of their homes. If the dog, cat or ferret does not have a current rabies vaccination, please see a licensed veterinarian immediately to get the pet inoculated with the rabies vaccine. You are advised not to handle any bats or wild animals. If any bats are found, call the City of Chicago at 311 and they will inform the Chicago Department of Animal Care and Control and the Cook County Department of Animal Control.

 

New Zoning FAQ on RVN Website

The Zoning and Land Use Committee (ZLUC) of Roscoe Village Neighbors has established an online zoning FAQ to help educate residents of Roscoe Village about the important topic of zoning. The FAQ can be found at www.roscoevillage.org by clicking the Zoning & Planning tab on the left, then the FAQs about zoning link. If you have a question you feel should be addressed, please send it to zoning@roscoevillage.org.

 

Recent Robbery

RVN wants to alert all Villagers that the manager of a local tavern was robbed on the street while walking home on Saturday, October 20 about 11:30 p.m. near Melrose and Hoyne. The robbers, two African American men, took the victim’s purse, money and cell phone. Please be aware and report suspicious individuals or behavior to the police immediately.

October 23

 

It's an exciting weekend here in Roscoe Village with several fun activities.  Join your neighbors at one of more of the following events.  We hope to see you there!

 

Thursday

Shop for your School

Shop Little Threads (2033 W. Roscoe St) on Thursday, October 25 from 10am-7pm for fun, fabulous clothing, accessories, and gifts.  15% of your purchase will be donated to the local school of your choice.  They carry a variety of styles for babies through big kids (Girls size 0-16 and boys 0-12).  Wine and appetizers will be served from 5:00-8:00pm

 

Friday

Meet a CUBS Hall of Famer

RCN is bringing Ryne Sandberg to Roscoe Village!  On Friday, October 26, from approximately 5:00 to 6:00, he will be in front of Mulligan's at the corner of Damen and Roscoe to meet and greet all that stop by.  He is planning to stop by Volo Restaurant around 5:40 where he'll help behind the bar until 6:00.  Then he'll be going door to door around the neighborhood with RCN representatives doing a "reverse trick or treat" and handing out candy.  They are planning to cover Leavitt, Bell, Oakley and Claremont between Roscoe and Belmont.  Please come on out and meet a Hall of Famer!

 

Saturday

Halloween Parade and Party this Weekend!

Bring your little ghosts & goblins to the RVN Halloween parade this Saturday, October 27th by 11:15am.  The parade will kick off on the corner of Roscoe and Leavitt exactly at 11:30am and progress to Damen Ave.  This year the Lane Tech Marching band (dressed in costume) and grand marshal "Jack Skeleton" will lead the parade.  Immediately following the parade kids can trick or treat along Roscoe Street.  Some of the merchants that are participating are the Village Tap, Kickin', Sacred Art, Fixture, Denim Lounge, Glam to Go, Dream Dinners, Musical Magic, Suckers Candy & With Grace (they will have a table set up handing out goodie bags along the parade route), Little Threads, and Cinnamon.

 

At 12:00 noon walk to Audubon school (3500 N. Hoyne Ave) for a Halloween Pizza Party with 8 rooms of Halloween activities, face painting, Spooky songs and more!  RVN wants to thank all the participating merchants, teachers and staff at Audubon, Lane Tech Marching band, the RVN Boo Crew and you for making this a tremendous community event.  Come out and join the fun!

 

Sunday

Kids Concert @ Beat Kitchen

Children's entertainer, Karen Lubicz-Banks, will be performing at Beat Kitchen, 2100 W. Belmont on Sunday, October 28 at 3:30pm.  Your entire family can enjoy this kid's concert while ordering hot dogs and other kid-friendly treats.

 

In the Near Future

RVN Charity Pub Crawl

Join your friends and neighbors at the 14th RVN Charity Pub Crawl, Saturday November 10 from 1:30pm to 9:00pm

The Starting Line-up is as follows:

1:30 p.m. Black Rock Tavern, 3614 N. Damen Ave.

3:00 p.m. Mulligans Public House, 2000 W. Roscoe St.

4:00 p.m. Village Tap, 2055 W. Roscoe St.

5:00 p.m. Riverview Tavern, 1958 W Rosoce St.

6:00 p.m. Four Moon Tavern, 1847 W. Roscoe St.

7:00 p.m. Four Treys Tavern, 3333 N. Damen Ave.

Proceeds from the event will be donated to The Common Pantry (3744 N. Damen Ave.) our local food pantry. So far, more than $18,000 has been raised at these neighborhood events.

The Crawl kicks off with a complimentary lunch at Black Rock, 3614 N. Damen Ave.

Participants are asked to bring along canned goods for the Food Pantry Collection Box. In return, each reveler will receive an official Roscoe Village Charity Pub Crawl T-shirt, lunch and drink specials at each pub.

The cost is just $20.00 per person.

Participants may pay at the door, but please RSVP by email at info@RoscoeVillage.org to ensure adequate supplies of T-shirts and lunch.

October 17

 

RVN 9th Annual Halloween Parade and Party —October 27th
Roscoe Village Neighbors invites you to the annual Halloween Parade on Saturday. October 27 at 11:30am.  This immensely popular parade starts on the corner of Leavitt and Roscoe St. and will progress east to Damen Ave. Kids in costume will be lead by the grand marshal of this years parade  “Jack Christmas” from “Nightmare before Christmas” followed by the Lane Tech Marching Band.  Kids can then trick or treat down Roscoe St to their favorite merchants.  The businesses will hand out candy directly in front of their stores to ease congestion.  Next, families can walk over to Audubon for the Halloween Party.  The party is free for Roscoe Village Neighbor Members and $10 per adult for non-members (this entrance fee also buys you an RVN membership).  Inside there will be pizza, drinks and goody bags.  Kids can go to several classrooms for Halloween crafts and spooky activities.

 

 

Volunteers Needed                                                                                              

As you may have noticed, this years Halloween Parade has been moved to an earlier time.  This was done to help accommodate the Roscoe St. businesses so that we are not closing the street during their peak retail time.  Many businesses are generously opening their doors to provide candy to the little trick-or-treaters. A few businesses need a volunteer to pass out candy for them so that the merchants can continue to manage their stores.  RVN has offered to help round up a few good volunteers.  If you are able to spend an hour to an hour and a half on Saturday, October 27th handing out candy please let us know at www.info@roscoevillage.org  Thank you!

 

 

Education on Education                                                                             

You’re invited to the 6th Education on Education seminar, an event designed to give local families as many answers as possible about public school education in the City of Chicago - all in one evening. This year's event will take place on Thursday, November 1, at 7pm at Jahn School (3149 N. Wolcott). The evening will begin with an opening presentation followed by three break-out sessions. Attendees can choose from four or five different concurrently running sessions. Topics have not been finalized but may include: “Magnet/Magnet Cluster/Gifted - What's the Difference?”, “Hot Topics - Honest Q & A on Major Issues Featuring Audubon and Jahn Principals”, “Preschool Programs”, “School Funding”, “Parent Testimonials - Candid Thoughts on CPS and Public Education”. If you have any requests for topics, please email boilerkha@ameritech.net.

 

 

Fall Welcoming Reception at LUSH                                                                 

Have you moved to Roscoe Village in the last 12 months? If so we'd like to invite you to the RVN Welcoming Reception at LUSH (2232 W. Roscoe) on Monday, November 5 from 6:30-8:30pm. Come enjoy complementary wine & appetizers while mixing and mingling with other new neighbors, RVN Welcoming Committee members and the staff of LUSH. Each guest is given a Roscoe Village Welcoming Kit brimming with information and goodies from local businesses. Space is limited so please RSVP today by clicking on the NEW RESIDENTS tab.

 

 

Mother Goose Story Time at Audubon School                                              

Neighborhood children, ages 3 and under, accompanied by their parents and caregivers, are invited to join a wonderful gathering for story time. After story time, children participate in a craft project and have a snack.  Audubon parent Caryn Hoffstedt will be leading the group. Please join us! If you are interested in reading on one of the following dates or leading a craft, please email Caryn at D2CHI@sbcglobal.net. The group meets from 9:30-10:15 on the following dates: 10/4, 10/18, 11/1, 11/15, 11/29, 12/13. Mother Goose Story Time is funded by and takes place at Audubon School.

September20

 

Dear Fellow Members of Roscoe Village Neighbors:

 

We hope that you all have a chance to get out and enjoy this very summer-like weather and that you’ll consider joining your neighbors at a few of the events below.

 

Inaugural RVN Movie Night a Success

The cotton candy was spinning, the popcorn was hot and drinks were cool when over 200 residents braved the 60 degree temperatures to experience RVN’s first movie under the stars event.  The community spirit was palpable as the cast of Madagascar hummed its way onto the big screen.  RVN would like to express our appreciation to Audubon school for hosting the event and to board member Brian O’Connell for spearheading the whole evening.

 

 

Sign the Alderman’s Petition for Recycling

Many Roscoe Village residents have expressed a desire to have our ward included in the Blue Cart Recycling Program.  In the 7 wards that now have the blue carts, the recycling rate has doubled.  Our residents recognize that the blue bag system is not a viable option and don’t want to wait for a year or more to get the blue cart program.  As a result, RVN has contacted our alderman and asked him to urge the City to push for faster city-wide roll out of the Blue Cart program.  In response, Alderman Waguespack has created an online recycling petition at http://www.PetitionOnline.com/green32/petition.html.  RVN and Alderman Waguespack are committed to making Roscoe Village a more environmentally friendly neighborhood.  We need your help.  Signing the petition takes less than a minute and will have a large impact.

 

 

Clean and Green Event – September 29

On Saturday, September 29, 2007, you can make an immediate difference in your neighborhood by volunteering your time and efforts to take part in Chicago 's Fall Clean & Green Day.
  
For the past several years Chicagoans like you have teamed up with Roscoe Village Neighbors and the City of Chicago to help beautify our community by cleaning up and recycling accumulated litter and trash.  All you have to do is sign up and join us at the Roscoe & Ravenswood underpass on Saturday, September 29 at 9:00am.  The city will provide all the brooms, rakes, shovels and bags needed to get the job done. We will break up into groups and clean up the unsightly underpasses in Roscoe Village .  We will pull weeds, pick up garbage and sweep away debris.  This is being done in preparation for the city to repaint the underpass walls and put in new brighter lighting that will improve the appearance and safety of these thoroughfares. Join us on September 29th at 9:00am and help make a big difference in Roscoe Village . Please let us know if we can expect you by e-mailing us at www.info@roscoevillage.org 

 

Common Pantry Benefit

Join the staff of the Common Pantry on Monday, November 5, 5-8 pm at Joey's Brickhouse, 1258 W. Belmont for an Italian buffet, beer & wine, raffle prizes and face painting for kids.  The cost is $40 for adults and $25 for children.
Stay after the event for Monday night football and half-price drinks.
All proceeds benefit the Common Pantry, www.commonpantry.org.
The Common Pantry has been Fighting Hunger in Chicago Since 1967.
For tickets contact them at 773-327-0553 or commonpantry@hotmail.com, or mail a check to Common Pantry 3744 N. Damen Chicago IL  60618.   

Mark Your Calendars

The RVN Halloween Parade and Pizza Party has been set for Saturday, October 27!  The parade will kick off at the corner of Leavitt and Roscoe St. at 11:30am.  Kids in costume will parade east down the street to Damen Ave.  Kids are then welcomed to trick or treat at many of their favorite merchants who are generously opening their doors and handing out candy to the little ghosts and goblins.  Families are then invited to Audubon Elementary School ( 3500 N. Hoyne Ave ) at 12:00 noon for a pizza party and fun activities.  The party is FREE to RVN members and $10 per adult for non-members; kids are free.  The Boo Crew could still use a few volunteers for the day of the event so if you are interested please e-mail info@roscoevillage.org.

 

Glam to Go is Turning 7!!!

Join Glam to Go on Saturday, September 22, 2007 for food, wine and fun.  Spend at least $25 and enter their 2nd annual bag raffle (tano, highway and other brands are included in the raffle)  A Glam lotto ticket will be given out with every  purchase - everyone's a winner!

 

Jeweled Souls is Celebrating their 2 Year Anniversary!

Come out and celebrate with Jeweled Souls ( 2257 W. Belmont Ave ) on Thursday, September 27 from 7:00 to 11:00p.m.  Drinks and Appetizers will be served, and the first 20 guests to arrive will receive a special gift.  RSVP with Andrea at 773-880-9093 or e-mail jeweledsouls2@sbcglobal.net.

September13

 

Dear Fellow Members of Roscoe Village Neighbors:

 

FREE Movie under the Stars

Pack a picnic and grab a blanket for a movie under the stars.  RVN’s inaugural Family Movie Night will take place on the lawn at Audubon School tonight, Friday, September 14.  The gates will open at 6:30pm with the movie “ Madagascar ” starting promptly at 7pm. The film will be shown on a giant (9’ x 12’) outdoor screen. Admission is free!  Drinks, popcorn and cotton candy will be available for $1 each.  The school restrooms will be available to moviegoers.  We hope to see you there!

 

Roscoe Village Neighbors cordially invites ALL Roscoe Village members and non-members to attend this community event. Please extend an invitation to your neighbors!

 

COME AND ENJOY THE MOVIE RAIN OR SHINE!!!!  In case of inclement weather, the movie will be shown in the Audubon gymnasium.

September11

 

Dear Fellow Members of Roscoe Village Neighbors:

RVN has been experiencing some computer issues lately and we realize only about half of you received last weeks e-mail blast.  Here is the information again in case you missed it!

RVN September Membership Meeting

Join your friends and neighbors at this month’s RVN membership meeting this Wednesday, Sept 12 at 7:30pm at the Lincoln Belmont Library ( 1659 W. Melrose Ave ).  The board will be discussing the results from Retro on Roscoe and upcoming Fall events.  

FREE Movie under the Stars

Pack a picnic and grab a blanket for a movie under the stars.  RVN’s inaugural Family Movie Night will take place on the lawn at Audubon School this Friday, September 14.  The gates will open at 6:30pm with the movie “ Madagascar ” starting promptly at 7pm. The film will be shown on a giant (9’ x 12’) outdoor screen. Admission is free!  Drinks, popcorn and cotton candy will be available for $1 each.  We hope to see you there!  

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Next RVEC Meeting

The next meeting of the Roscoe Village Education Coalition will take place on Wednesday, September 19 at 7:30pm at Riverview (Roscoe and Damen). We will be discussing plans for the upcoming Education on Education forum.  We welcome any new volunteers who are interested in joining our committee.

Town Hall Meeting

State Representative John Fritchey invites you to discuss important issues affecting our neighborhood and hear about the latest news out of Springfield at a community forum on Monday, September 17 at 7:00pm at the Lincoln/Belmont Library ( 1659 W. Melrose St .).

Gently Used Books Needed

The Lincoln Belmont Branch Library ( 1659 W. Melrose St ) is seeking gently used books to be donated right away. The Library also invites everyone to come to their Friends of the Lincoln Belmont Library Annual Book Sale on September 27-29, 2007. All the funds raised from the sale are used to support their programs & collections.  If you are interested in volunteering for the sale, the library needs helpers the Saturday prior. THANK YOU FOR YOUR SUPPORT!

 

Looking for a faithful companion?

The Chicago Canine Rescue Foundation’s (CCRF) Mutt Strut is a dog & family event for all 2 & 4-legged participants.  This special event includes music, food, drinks, entertainment, demonstrations, canine/human merchandise, a dog wash, and a casual walk passing by Hamlin Park and thru the Roscoe Village neighborhood.  In addition, CCRF will have adorable dogs available for adoption.  This event takes place on Saturday, September 15 from 8:30am – 1pm at Lincoln Park Savings Bank ( 3234 N. Damen Ave ). The 1 ½ mile walk will take place at 9:30am.  All dogs must be leashed and up to date on all vaccinations & rabies shots.  There is a $25 advance registration fee; $35 at the event. Kids and dogs are free!  Please visit www.chicagocaninerescue.org for more information.

Common Pantry Wine Tasting Fundraiser and Raffle

The Common Pantry is celebrating its 40th Anniversary as the oldest continuously operating emergency food pantry in Chicago .  They fight hunger in right here in Roscoe Village as well as in Lakeview, North Center/Lincoln Square and Albany Park areas.  Every week they supply numerous households consisting of families, seniors, children and infants with staples, canned goods, meat, fresh produce, occasional school supplies and personal care/cleaning items.  They serve an average of 800 individuals per month!  They can’t do it alone and need your support.  Please consider joining them at Lush, 2232 W. Roscoe St. on September, 20 from 6:30-9:00pm.  The fee is just $30 per person for the wine tasting and $5 per raffle ticket or 5 for $20 (prizes include two sets of Cubs tickets, Old Town School of Folk Music Gift Certificate ($200 retail value), and numerous prizes from North Center / Roscoe Village merchants).  To purchase tickets call the Common Pantry at (773) 327-0553.  No tickets will be sold at the door.

 

August 3

 

Dear Fellow Members of Roscoe Village Neighbors:

 

RVN was a little worried there for a minute that we would not get the needed volunteers to staff the Retro gates.  As a result, the board members placed flyers on our neighbor’s doors encouraging you to help us out.  Help us you did!  With-in 48 hours all the Retro gates were fully staffed and we are ready for our summer celebration. Thank you for your tremendous support.  We have a feeling this 13th annual neighborhood festival will be the best Retro on Roscoe to date because of your efforts!

 

Volunteer Appreciation Party

Over 200 volunteers showed up for our Volunteer Appreciation Party last night at Four Treys Tavern ( 3333 N. Damen Ave ).  Important information about Retro was discussed and questions were answered.  All volunteers enjoyed free pizza, soft drinks and beer complements of Four Treys Tavern.  There were also numerous door prizes generously donated by:  Four Treys Tavern, Lincoln Park Savings Bank, Dream Dinners, Kitsch’n, Village Tap, Curves, Mario and Ginos Ice Cream, Volo, Orange , With Grace Stationary, Vitners Wine Cellar, Lush, Connections Spa, & Beat Kitchen.  These merchants go out of their way to make Roscoe Village an extraordinary place to live.  Please remember them this weekend at Retro. 

 

Retro On Roscoe: This Weekend12:00 noon to 10:00pm

How great is it to walk down the street to enjoy great food and drink, exciting live music, eclectic local shopping, and fun, family-oriented experiences. Our 13th Annual Retro on Roscoe Neighborhood Festival has it all! This year there will be a Chili Cook Off, live cooking demonstrations (with three guest chef demos each day, preparing everything from sushi to desserts with plenty of samples and live jazz), numerous local merchants and artisans as well as world class bands and food. RVN has also expanded the Childrens Area this year to include a trackless train, many craft tables a blow up slide, face painting, balloon animals and Bozo Buckets.  Parents can buy tickets at a nominal cost for these fun experiences.  The Childrens Area entertainment has also moved to a larger stage at Roscoe and Oakley.  We will set up Astroturf so that children and parents can sit and watch the show without having to sit on the pavement.  We ask that people reframe from standing on and placing strollers on this Astroturf to keep it clean for others.

 

Please see the attachment for the full Retro line up.  Come and enjoy the fun and camaraderie that make Roscoe Village a special place to live.

 

Parking Reminder

One last reminder that due to “Retro On Roscoe,” a parking ban will be in effect from 11:00pm on Friday, August 4 through 11:59pm on Sunday, August 6.  Areas included are:  Roscoe Street from Damen to Oakley; and:  Seeley, Hoyne, Hamilton , Leavitt, and Bell between the alleys to the north and south of Roscoe.  The City of Chicago will tow any vehicles parked in these areas during these times to a city lot—it is $160.00 to retrieve your vehicle, so don’t wait until 11:01 on Friday night to move your car!  The city will be posting notices on parking meters, light posts, trees, etc. shortly before the festival to help you remember.  And please tell your friends and family, too.

Guests to the fest can find additional parking in the Lane Tech High School parking lot just west of Western and North of Roscoe St .

 

Special Thanks

The cool logo on the back of the Retro tees was once again designed by Brian Peters from Wilkinson Blender architects.  This is his third year designing our logos.  Thanks Brian!

If you’ve had the chance to stroll past the RVN office window lately you no doubt viewed the art work of the very talented locally grown but nationally known artist Heather Gentile Collins.  Both of these individuals gave generously of their time and abilities.  We couldn’t do it with out you!

July 19

 

Dear Fellow Members of Roscoe Village Neighbors;

 

Retro on Roscoe Volunteers Needed

Retro on Roscoe is less than 3 weeks away, and it takes over 300 volunteers to put on this street fest.  We need your help!

 

Come on out and be a part of Chicago ’s 3rd largest street fest, Retro on Roscoe 2007!  RVN needs volunteers to work the entry gates and staff the children’s area at Retro on Roscoe on August 4 & 5 from 12:00pm to 10:00pm.  As many of you know, the proceeds from Retro fund the vast majority of RVN's activities, including the welcome receptions, "What's News in Roscoe Village" newsletter, Education on Education seminars, park & street improvements, school donations, pub crawls, seasonal events, the RVN website and more.  Retro on Roscoe

 

would simply not be possible without the literally hundreds of residents who step up to work a 2-hour shift during the festival.  Volunteering is easy!  Just go to www.RoscoeVillage.org and click on the "Retro on Roscoe" tab at the left.  Then click on the "volunteer" link, and choose a 2-hour (or more!) time frame on the day(s) of your choice.  All volunteers will be invited to the Volunteer Appreciation Party on Thursday, August 2, where they’ll be treated to complimentary beverages and pizza.  There will also be fantastic raffle prizes donated by local merchants.  And of course, all volunteers will receive the very popular Retro on Roscoe T-shirt.  This year’s men's T-shirts include a ringer, and the women's fitted tees are much longer and even more flattering than last year’s!  Both feature the distinctive Retro logo on the front.  Volunteering at Retro is a fun way to meet your neighbors while helping out the community, so sign up now!  Thank you in advance!

 

Parking Reminder

A parking ban will be in effect from 11:00pm Friday, August 4, through 11:59pm Sunday, August 6, and will include Roscoe Street from Oakley to Damen, and Bell, Leavitt, Hamilton, Hoyne and Seeley between the alleys to the north and south of Roscoe. The City of Chicago will tow any vehicles on the venue during this time to a city lot ($160 fee to retrieve your vehicle).  The city will post notices on parking meters, trees, etc. shortly before the festival.  Please make sure your friends and neighbors are aware of this temporary inconvenience so they do not have to go to the trouble and expense of retrieving their vehicle.

 

Aldermanic Town Hall Meeting on Recent Flooding

Alderman Waguespack has convened a special community meeting to discuss the flooding that followed recent heavy rainstorms. Panel members from the city’s Department of Water Management will be on hand to take questions and suggest practical measures our community can take to prevent future flooding.  This meeting will be held on Wednesday, July 25 at 7:00pm at the Hamlin Park Field House (3035 N. Hoyne ).  For more information please contact Trevor Montgomery or Kerri Stojack at 773-248-1330. 

 

RVN Garden Walk a Success

This year's garden walk was a great success. We had a perfect summer day, a welcome respite from the 100-degree scorchers of the last two years! It was one of the best attended walks in our seven-year history. We estimate that more than 1,000 people participated, whether they made it to one garden or, as many did, all 45. Our efforts to publicize the garden walk in Roscoe Village and beyond paid off, too. Neighborhood residents were joined on the walk by visitors from far-flung Chicago communities and suburbs, such as Beverly , Edgewater, Deerfield, and Evanston . There are many people to thank who contributed to make the event possible. Thanks, of course, to each and every one of the garden exhibitors, and to the members of the Roscoe Village Neighbors Garden Walk Committee – Howard Kaplan, Cheryl McCabe, Catherine Aragon Munden, Maryann Siwek and Rose Wehner. Thanks also to Roscoe Villager Michelle Jolas of Wildflower Design for designing this year’s exquisite poster and guide, which received innumerable compliments and really set the Roscoe Village Garden Walk apart from every other one in the city. We'd also like to thank three Roscoe Village merchants for their efforts on behalf of the garden walk. Pradhan Balter and Victory's Banner provided a hospitable central location for us to distribute guides and information. Frankie and Johnnie Andrae at Original Expressions for Kids got up early to inflate more than 100 flower balloons, providing them at cost to RVN.  Jon Young and Volo provided a wonderful garden setting for a delicious exhibitors’ get-together after the walk. Finally, thank you to Garden Walk Coordinator Extraordinaire, Howard Kaplan, for all his creativity, time and energy that goes into making this event a huge success. 

Thanks to all, and see you next year!

 

Fellger Park Concert

Come and get your groove on next Thursday, July 26 at 6:30 pm at Fellger Park (located on the corner of Belmont & Damen) with a live performance by Rosanne & The Musical Magic Band!! Admission is free, so bring a blanket and pack a picnic dinner for this family concert! Hope to see you there!

 

 

June 22

 

Dear Fellow Members of Roscoe Village Neighbors:

Happy summer! We look forward to a warm and eventful summer filled with activities keeping with the RVN mission of providing social events that bring the community closer together.

RVN Annual Meeting a Huge Success

RVN wishes to thank Alderman Waguespack and Mark Farina from Chicago ’s Department of the Environment for speaking to the RVN board and the 40+ RVN members in attendance at the RVN Annual Meeting. Residents learned about 5 quick and easy ways we can help curb global warming. The new Alderman discussed his vision for our ward and answered numerous questions from the audience. Delicious food was generously provided by Costello’s, Volo, Kitch’n, Four Treys and the Village Tap.

RVN Board Election Results

We are pleased to announce that Don Tomei is the new RVN Vice-President, Steve Miller will complete another term for Treasurer, Bill Hackney will serve another director term and our newest board member is Lisa Wilkins. Congratulations everyone! RVN wishes to thank the other residents who ran for election and to all residents who voted.

BAM! Fest – This Weekend

Kick it up a notch at the inaugural Belmont Arts and Music Festival (BAM!) this Saturday and Sunday, June 23 & 24, from noon to 10pm, on Belmont Ave. between Damen and Leavitt. Two stages of live music will feature Bob Mould, The Heartless Bastards, Omega Moos, The Wrens, Michael McDermott, The Redwalls and more! There will also be family and kids entertainment from noon to 3pm on both days. The kid’s stage is located on Belmont at Damen just in front of the children’s park; there is a big fountain in the park for the kids to cool off. Kid’s entertainment will be Mary Macaroni on Saturday at noon and Karen Banks-Lubicz at 1:00pm. On Sunday kid’s entertainment will include Stacey Buehler at noon, Little Miss Ann at 1:00 and Mary Macaroni at 2:00pm.

For more info and/or to volunteer contact the Roscoe Village Chamber of Commerce at 773-327-5123 or info@rvcc.biz. As a result of BAM! Fest CTA has rerouted the buses to Clybourn Ave.

Household Chemical and Computer Collection Day June 23

Make Your Home Safe and Clean for Summer Drop-Off Your Household Chemicals & Computers on Saturday, June 23rd from 8:00am-3:00pm at the United Center Parking Lot D, 1901 W. Madison St. Chicago
Bring your old and unused household chemicals, computers and electronics to this neighborhood collection day. Plus, you can exchange your old gas-powered lawnmower for a $100 rebate toward a new electric or manual mower. You can also recycle old gas can for a new environmentally-friendly can, while supplies last. Acceptable items include: chemicals, oil-based paints, cleaners, solvents, computers, cell phones and fluorescent light bulbs. For a full list of acceptable items or more information, call 311 or visit www.bluecartschicago.org/

Library Events

The Lincoln/ Belmont Library (1659 W. Melrose ) will be hosting “Graphic Novels 101” with famous graphic novelist, Josh Elder on Tuesday, July 3 at 6:30pm. Josh is the author of the new series: Mail Order Ninja. Also joining the program event is a local cartoonist, Jeffrey Brown, who will talk about the writing and the illustrating business.

Super Summer Sale

Glam to Go is currently having a big sale on clothing, select lines of jewelry and children’s accessories including 20-50% off spring and summer clothing, 30% off jewelry and 30% off See Kai Run shoes for children. Pick up several bargains while supporting our local merchants.

Wiggly Wash
Lincoln Park Savings Bank and Bark Chicago Spa Bark ( Chicago ’s first mobile grooming spa) present “ Wiggly Wash ” a Dog Wash to benefit Chicago Canine Rescue this Saturday, June 23 from noon to 4pm at Lincoln Park Savings Bank, 3234 N. Damen Ave. Bring your pup to a squeaky clean good time during these oh so hot days of summer. Dog washes and blueberry facials are only $20. For more information visit www.chicagocaninerescue.org

$20

Unfortunate Signs of Summer

The weather is heating up, and so, unfortunately, are the reports of graffiti and break-ins. So, a quick reminder to please report graffiti to both 311 and your alderman's office as soon as it appears. As for break-ins, the police tell us that thieves do tend to look for the easiest targets. Keeping lower level windows locked and porch lights on do act as deterrents. Keep CD’s and loose change out of view in your cars and remember to lock your car doors. Stay safe everyone!
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Virtual Zoning Walk II
Posted: Friday January 19, 2007

Take the "mystery" out of zoning by understanding the technical, legal and political complexity of it. RVN's Zoning and Land Use Committee is holding "Virtual Zoning Walk II" on Wednesday, January 24 at 6:30pm at the Lincoln Belmont Public Library (1659 W. Melrose). Zoning is important to the future of our neighborhood. Please join your neighbors at this important seminar. We look forward to seeing you there!

 

 

 
 

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