Hey Lincoln Park: did you know that President Barack Obama's Supreme Court Justice nominee lived in the neighborhood for five whole years?

According to Lynn Sweet's Sun-Times blog, Elena Kagan met Obama while they were both faculty members at the University of Chicago, and during her five years on faculty, she called 605 W. Arlington in the Lincoln Park neighborhood home.

According to the Lynn Sweet blog, "After classes, she would 'get into her car, turn up the rock 'n' roll music loud, and drive home fast. She told me that,' U. of C. Law School Professor David Strauss recalled on Monday."

The news of such an important current political figure residing in Lincoln Park was enough to switch my creepy-factor into high gear...

Copyright Google.

Now, I'm not exactly sure which building is actually 605 W. Arlington. Google seemed to be pretty certain it's this 3 story monster on the corner, but the location of the little red pin tag sits rather ambiguously between this building and its neighbor.

Either way, this section of the neighborhood is what Kagan called home while she lived here. How cool and exciting for those Lincoln Park neighbors who currently occupy the block!

Curiously, this beautiful shot of the much-adored Cafe Ba Ba Reeba was taken by the same photographer as the street musician in my last post--swanksalot!

Another fun fact culled from the Sun-Times blog: Kagan often brought students for lunches and dinners at Cafe Ba Ba Reeba at 2024 N. Halsted, a Lincoln Park gem!

Cafe Ba Ba Reeba has glowing Yelp! reviews, ranking a full 4 stars out of 5 based on 662 user reviews. I know that their sangria is legendary among DePaul students, and trendy tapas dining is popular in Lincoln Park as well.

If confirmed, Elena Kagan will become the 4th female justice in the Supreme Court's history, and the 8th Jewish justice in its history.

If you want to learn more about Kagan's personal, professional and political background, check out her Wikipedia page.

What do you think, Lincoln Park? How do you feel about Elena Kagan's Chicago ties coming literally so close to home?

Hey there, Lincoln Park--we're back from our mini blog vacation with some really exciting news...

The Green City Market officially moves to its outdoor, south Lincoln Park location next week! You can find the full schedule of events for the grand opening of Green City Market's 12th season here. It's full of yummy tastings, workshops and demonstrations. Definitely not something you want to miss!

I found this news out from Green City Market's Twitter account, which is an awesome resource for people who want to know more about the market and it's farmers.

I got to thinking: wouldn't it be great to compile a list of must-follow Twitter accounts for the constantly-connected Lincoln Park-er? Yes, it would. So now that list is waiting for you just beyond the "Continue reading..."

Only a couple months remain in the Lincoln Park Zoo's enormous reconstruction plan for the south pond--by the end of June, the newly renovated and completely balanced ecosystem at the Nature Boardwalk will finally open. And with a $12 million price tag, you can expect the long-anticipated renovations to be pretty incredible.

Frank Mathie outlined the south pond's planned transformation from 4 acres of mosquito-infested, dirty, stagnant water to the beautifully balanced, thriving ecosystem at the Nature Boardwalk in this ABC 7 report. Visitors can expect natural vegetation, aquatic vegetation, birds, fish, turtles, frogs--you name it.

Slightly less in tune with the wilderness setting but still quite appealing will be the Cafe Brauer beer garden and patio, where visitors can enjoy food and beverages amidst the wildlife.

But finishing the renovations and re-opening the south pond isn't the only thing the Lincoln Park Zoo has in store for its Nature Boardwalk...

Chicago Breaking News Center is reporting the disappearance of Lincoln Park resident Matthew Goralka, a 17-year-old junior who attends Walter Payton College Prep.  

Police described him as 135 pounds and five foot nine inches tall.  He has freckles and hazel eyes with brown hair.   Anyone with information is asked to contact Area Three special victims unit at 312-744-8266

The family of Matthew Goralka, a Lincoln Park teenager missing since a dispute with his parents Tuesday, pleads for public assistance locating their son, a Walter Payton High School student who received blood thinning treatment for a blood clot at Children's Memorial Hospital Tuesday.

As promised, here is a rockin' photo gallery from the 2nd annual Chicago Snuggie Pub Crawl, which took place today in Lincoln Park.

Snuggie-clad party people took to Lincoln Avenue today between noon and 8 p.m., circulating between The Apartment/Lions Head Pub, John Barleycorn, Kendall's, Kelsey's, Halligan's and O'Malley's, to celebrate discounted drink deals, Karama Connection and America's most-adored sleeved blanket.

Karama Connection's Executive Director and one of the event's organizers Connie Naber estimated that this year's Snuggie Pub Crawl raised between $15,000 and $16,000. Though she serves as the Executive Director of the organization, she takes no salary or profit, so 100% of the proceeds will go toward Karama Connection's projects in Tanzania.

Part of the money will go to help orphans in Tanzania, but most of it is used to create self-sustaining projects in the country. "I'm not creating a welfare system," Naber said. Instead her efforts aim to provide sustainable assistance for people who need it.

If you didn't make it out to the crawl but you would like to support Karama Connection's efforts, you can explore investment opportunities here.

According to many of the Snuggie Pub Crawl's attendees who also went to last year's event, this year's turn out was smaller but the crawl was still fun.

"Last year was more into the Snuggie thing, this year is more into the drinking thing," explained Robbie Nimmer, who wore a blue Snuggie with a graphic print of Cookie Monster's face.

Despite this year's lower turn out, Tawnia May of Indianapolis insists that she and her friends from Las Vegas will continue to make the Chicago Snuggie Pub Crawl an annual tradition.

But I'll let the pictures do the rest of the talking...

Not sure exactly how I let this one (almost) slip under the radar, but don't fret my pet--I caught it in time. Yes, the second annual Chicago Snuggie Pub Crawl has arrived!

Tomorrow, Saturday April 10, the Snuggie Pub Crawl kicks off at Lincoln Park's very own The Apartment at 12:00 p.m. Closing ceremonies are in the same place at 7:30 p.m., with the pub crawl callin' it quits at 8.

 

Awesome Barb over on ChicagoNow's That's Awesome has full details and a gallery full of shnazzy Snuggie fashion ideas ripe for your picking.

 

[The skinny: the Snuggie Pub Crawl is a fundraiser for Karama Connection's AC-Orphanage, powered by Fate-Monkey.com. You can rest assured that your ticket purchase ($22 in advance, $25 at the door, discounts available for groups of five or more) will go toward providing clean water, food, education, clothing and housing for orphans in Tanzania whose parents were victims of HIV and toberculosis. According to this ticketleap blog post, The Apartment will collect non-perishable donations for CPD's annual food drive at check-in, too.]

You can live the Snug life, too! Chicago's Second Annual Snuggie Pub Crawl is Saturday, April 10 starting at noon. (Although I believe this photo comes from a similar event in California). Photo by flickr user Carlos Almandarez.

If you need a reason to go besides simultaneously helping orphans, day-drinking, and wearing a Snuggie in public in a socially-accepted way, there will also be some pretty great drink specials and a raffle with prizes like Lollapalooza and Cubs game tickets.

 

Eight hours of day-drinking normally sounds like a big disaster, but I'm pretty sure that the Snuggie makes it more than okay. You can count on Lincoln Park Now to be on the scenes, snapping photos for a sweet Snuggie gallery, too!

 

The news after the jump obviously can't measure up to the excitement factor of a Snuggie bar crawl, but you should "continue reading" for information on some other upcoming Lincoln Park events, too...

 

Does this sound anything like the Lincoln Park you know and love (or love to hate?): 

Armitage, an avenue of boutiques and Lincoln Park luxury, is the latest area of the neighborhood to see a spike in knife-related crime. Thanks to Flickr user Zol87 for the snap.

The Chicago Breaking News Center updated information this morning about the 18-year-old man who was stabbed last night in an apartment hallway in the 2000 block of North Bissell.   Chicago Police News Affairs could not confirm for Lincoln Park Now that the victim is or is not a neighborhood resident of Lincoln Park.

If you're anything like me, as soon as this week's weather conditions work their way into the forecast, your limbs literally itch to start riding your bike.

Perhaps you haven't yet heard the buzz, but earlier this month Google made it even easier for Chicagoans to two-wheel the town safely. Yes, Google maps has introduced a bicycling directions feature that will change your bike-riding life forever.

In a neighborhood like Lincoln Park, which is rich with scenery and bike paths to boot, this new feature can become an indispensable tool for biking enthusiasts.

Allow me to demonstrate...

Move over, lake shore path, you're not the only bike friendly pavement in town! Google's new bike path directions allow two-wheeling commuters to veer off the lake shore path while still pedaling safely. Photo by flickr user discosour

When I was a freshman at DePaul, I decided to start volunteering as an English teacher for a Burmese refugee. Another Burmese refugee and incredibly inspirational Chicago Burmese community leader, Poe Clee, was an enormous help to my student and her family.

He helped them adjust to life in Chicago, he helped them find valuable resources they needed, and he used his incredible English language skills to help them communicate with doctors and officials whenever they needed him.

What does this even have to do with Lincoln Park, you ask? Well, for the first time in 4 years, Poe Clee is going back to the refugee camp in Thailand where he lived before moving to the United States, and he is hosting a fundraiser at Small Bar in Lincoln Park on Friday, March 26 in order to raise money for soccer equipment for the kids at the camp.

Burmese people love soccer the same way Lincoln Parkers love the Cubs (or hockey--the Blackhawks!--did anyone go to the Brent Seabrook meet up at the Starfruit Cafe a few weeks back?). From the looks of the pictures on Poe Clee's poster, it looks like the kids in the camp could really use some new gear.

So if you're not doing anything on Friday and you want to support Poe Clee's cause (and maybe even meet a real life Lincoln Park Now blogger--me!) come out to Small Bar at  1415 W. Fullerton at 7.

DETAILS:

Student video reporters from Columbia College, Toni Grimes and Brandon Smith, recently weighed the issue of muggings around the LP with DePaul student area residents. 

Chicago Public Schools issued a last-minute press release tonight striking Prescott Elementary from the list of schools that the Board of Education will vote tomorrow whether or not to close.

In this ABC7 news report, 32nd ward alderman Scott Waguespack specifically calls out the Board of Education, Ron Huberman and Mayor Daley, insisting that schools like Prescott can thrive if given the right opportunity.

For the full CPS press release granting reprieve to both Prescott Elementary and Marconi Elementary School at 230 N. Kolmar, check out the ChicagoNow District 299 blog's most recent post.

What saved Prescott at the last minute? The ABC7 reporter says it is the community's plan to increase enrollment that spared the school, while an anonymous commenter on District 299 asserts it's the alderman who changed Huberman and Daley's minds.

What do you think, Lincoln Park?

(A special thanks to Joe Lake for sending this news tip to Lincoln Park Now)

A panicked pack of parents from West Lincoln Park are doing all they can to save Prescott Elementary School from the swinging CPS axe slated to shut down, turn around, phase out or consolidate several neighborhood schools this week.

At a Chicago Board of Education meeting on Wednesday, Feb. 24, officials will decide the fate of Prescott Elementary. Chicago Public Radio offers a comprehensive break-down of all of the targeted CPS schools and what they face in this week's vote.

The schools in question are being flagged for restructuring or elimination based on under-enrollment and low test scores, and if you take a look at Prescott's statistics, the neighborhood elementary school isn't doing so hot.

Still, a grassroots fundraising and marketing group called Prescott Parents has a different opinion, and they're voicing it loudly all over the internet in hopes of saving the school.

60614 is the buzz right now, Chicago, like when Colbert profiled Quigley (read on if ya missed it...), and even here on ChicagoNow, where I'll just go ahead and award the (make believe) Lincoln Park Now's Winter Blogger Olympic medals to:

I have basically wanted to write this post my whole (blogging) life. Now, thanks to a RedEye tip, my wildest Lincoln Park Now blogging dreams are coming true.

What is she talking about, you might ask yourself? Let me spell it out for you: there's a winter storm watch in place starting lat tonight night. In a 24 hour span, Chicago could accumulate up to 10 inches of snow. That means snow everywhere--especially in the parks.

And as all you dear readers obviously know, Lincoln Park has got a LOT of parks.

This can only mean one thing. A lot of snowmen.

Effective Sunday, February 7, most CTA bus routes servicing Lincoln Park will strand you overnight if you're seeking a lift after midnight or before 6:00am.  Teaming with several other city council seats to appeal certain CTA's service cut decisions, Ald. Daley blasted the ending of owl service in a press release sent to all major media outlets in Chicago, and us!

Well, at least a little bit famous.

Last weekend, Molly and I had the pleasure of meeting up with Anton from funsherpa.com at Lincoln Park's own Savor the Flavor in order to discuss this blog, all the cool things funsherpa has to offer, and a new and exciting relationship between Lincoln Park Now and funsherpa.

These Sherpas look like they know where to find all the fun! Photo by flikr user ilkerender

Crime alert: A Lincoln Park man posing as a cop allegedly robbed a North Side couple on Friday, according to several news articles across the web.

According to examiner.com, 37-year-old Dwayne Carter of the 1700 block of Clark St. pulled up in a silver Chevy Impala alongside the couple as they walked in the 4800 block of N. Hamlin.

Even undercover cops have proper police identification.Photo by flikr user davidsonscott15

He allegedly showed the couple a set of handcuffs, a handgun, and a police scanner, and asked them to get in the vehicle as part of an investigation. According to the article, police say that he drove the couple to an alley and robbed them of their money, cell phones, and an iPod.

The couple called the real police, and they found and identified Carter as the offender.

According to the Examiner article, Carter is charged with 2 felony counts of impersonating a police officer, 2 counts of aggravated robbery, and possession of cannabis.

The Examiner article advises that real undercover cops are required to carry and show photo identification, and anyone pulled over by an undercover cop can request that a marked squad car arrive on the scene.

Hey Lincoln Park, how much do you love the RedEye?

Do you love it enough to follow the RedEye blogs Accidentally Sexy, Off the Markley, and Geek to Me on ChicagoNow?

If so, you'll already know all about the "Accidental Threesome" that has Stephen Markley and Elliott Serrano competing for Ana Fernatt's favor today in a series of dates, with many components happening right here in Lincoln Park!

If not, read on!

Off the Markley, Accidentally Sexy, and Geek to Me will be making appearances in Lincoln Park today during their love-triangle triple date!

Lincoln Park, your beaver is back.

And this time, his online support community is stronger than ever.

You may remember last spring when the Chicago Park District attempted to live trap a family of three beavers that made a home in North Pond, intent on relocating them, but accidentally killing the mom-beaver and sparking outrage in the community...

How about this, Lincoln Park?  We've got some superb news to share: the BEST volunteer opportunity in Lincoln Park RIGHT. NOW.    Democracy flourishes in your school district, and the time to bring that back into the schools has arrived.  

Since many eyebrows raised over the hiring of Lincoln Park High School's current principal, now is a chance to dust off your vetting gloves and get involved.

Could it be true?  We think so:.

A new principal will be coming to the Lincoln Park High School if this announcement takes it upon itself to confirm that very fact.   Until January 21st, anyone living within the borders of the Lincoln Park High School community may apply to join the Local School Council's principal selection committee as a community representative. One parent of a student currently enrolled will also join three additional teachers on the council to screen the applicant pool.   

Though the notice specifies the winners' names will be drawn from a hat if applicants exceed the available positions, the committee member will be confirmed behind closed doors.   LSC Chair Maryanne Petritis is the go-to person with any questions, and the sign-up sheet is hanging in the main office of the school at 2001 N. Orchard. 

The chosen reps will participate in: 

• Weekly meetings
• Screening resumes
• Conducting phone interviews
• Conducting competency-based interviews
• Narrowing the candidate pool
• Visiting candidate's place of employment
• Presenting the candidates in an open forum
• Making recommendations to the LSC

The current principal of five academic years, Dr. Bessie Karvelas, has come under several incidents of public pressure.  Firing a popular librarian in 2006 due to CPS cutback orders during the school year nearly resulted in a student walk-out, and the controversial sweeping end of off-campus lunching saw the entire student body restricted from a long-term privilege "for academic reasons."

Grant an upscale, progressive, urban community like Lincoln Park three major hospital site re-developments in a few years and 60614 is one story on the beanstalk away from:  A New York Times cameo, reports galore, a Crain's play-by-play, Alderman moderated blogs, and what now? 

You've baited the site's new owner into calling you, Lincoln Park, that's right, you,  the "biggest classic case of not in my backyard as I've ever seen in my lifetime." Richard Zisook's deafening words to the Chicago News Cooperative for the New York Times are a serious allegation.  Battling the Mid-North Neighbors community association over their proposal, Richard Zisook and Michael Supera plan a five-building redevelopment of the former Lincoln Park Hospital into a mixed-use of senior-housing condominiums, a few single-family homes, commericial/retail, and an altered, already existing parking garage. 

Participate in the continuing carnage this Tuesday, January 12, at 6:30 p.m. in the auditorium of Lincoln Park High School.  Ald. Vi Daley will referee the latest stab at compromise between Zisook and Supera and the Mid-North neighbors over the modified plans for the site's use.   

Petitioning against the site drew over 400 signatures from residents who armed Michele Smith, 43rd ward Democratic Committeeman, with a hefty argument against tall buildings, traffic, excessive retail, and tarnishing the charm of their blocks.   

Championing a feasibility study last year on the community's guidelines for re-using the Children's Memorial Hospital space for mixed use earned Vi Daley her blogger black belt.  The use of community blogs to stage a podium for Lincoln Park citizen proposals and debate over this very issue not only left marvelous tracks for those of us who weren't there to watch in the beginning, but also sparks questions like,  "so what the heck is REALLY going on here?" 

Hi, Lincoln Park Now readers, and sorry for my recent post-hiatus. Any of our readers who are also DePaul students will know how crazy the last week has been with winter quarter classes starting, but enough excuses!

Searching the web recently for Lincoln Park topics of interest has only served to remind me that I need to put my New Years resolution exercise plan into motion likerightnow.

If you're in the same situation, let's not fight it anymore! Don't let the blizzard stop you from building a bangin' bod. I've found a great deal and an exciting class that will make getting fit in Lincoln Park a fun and thrifty possibility in 2010.

 

While Americans passionately react to the Stupak amendment, 43rd Ward Ald. Vi Daley is being honored this month by Planned Parenthood of Illinois' at their  "Future of Choice" celebration to mark 37 years since the Supreme Court's ruling in Roe Vs. Wade.  

If you've just turned 18, recently moved into Lincoln Park, or something just inspired you to become a voter (let me guess: living in Cook County in 2009?) - you're going to have to register.  

The last day to register for the February 2nd Primary Election is TODAY, at CITY HALL or until midnight at 69 W. Washington.  

 

 

 

Though nobody is up for City Council office, Lincoln Park, it's a statewide and countywide race this time around, oh, yeah, and U.S. Senator.   (Time to replace Roland Burris, at least!)  

 

So what's the deal anyway, you're thinking?  Are you? 

Good afternoon, Lincoln Park, and I hope this cloudy, gray final-day-of-December is treating you well! Hopefully some of our followers on Twitter will respond to our New Years Resolutions inquiry, and I can post those up for your viewing pleasure later today.

But I have a special New Years treat for you right now, dear readers.

There's no place like home for the New Year. Photo by flikr user Zol87, text added by me.

http://www.flickr.com/photos/zol87/ / CC BY-SA 2.0

What do beer, free rides, 5k runs, hip hop music, and butterflies have in common? This is a Lincoln Park blog, so I'm sure you can make the connection...