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The 46th Ward, much like Uptown, is a bizarre place. Laid out in a strange shape on the northern lake front, the 46th Ward is made up of a lot of different people. One of those groups, however, has a bone to pick with the current alderman, Helen Shiller.
If you've read Chicagoist for any period of time, you've seen our posts on the nonsense that passes for political activism there: strange videos appearing on the internet, and blogging parties of three re-writing Wikipedia to better reflect their own twisted fantasy of what reality is. Last week, however, the reality of election season set in in the 46th Ward, as the two candidates for alderman debated each other. Present were Shiller, and her opponent, James Cappleman.
The debate was, as you might imagine, a full house. The candidates had their questions in advance, and both came well-prepared to answer. While Shiller ran over her time a lot, answering complex questions about development and how the ward works, Cappleman came off as sounding "angry and embittered, frequently making comparisons to other wards," reported people present at the debate. Pointing to some of the surrounding wards, he expressed dissatisfaction with the direction of development in the 46th Ward, claiming that surrounding areas were so livable that everyone could walk to a grocery store, or enjoy vibrant shopping. Safety was another issue he touched on. Obviously he's never visited Roger's Park, half of Eugene Schulter's ward, the east side of Edgewater, or the west part of Lakeview. One major theme, not only in the debate, but among Shiller's detractors, is development in the ward. Cappleman is proposing a master plan to guide development in the ward, and is promising to include all residents in that plan. Shiller responded that she wasn't sure Cappleman understood that the alderman can only negotiate with developers if they need a zoning change. Without that, her hands are tied.
When asked if he would preserve and expand the number of shelter beds in the area, Cappleman announced that he supported Mayor Daley's Ten Year Plan to End Homelessness, which moves the homeless out of temporary shelters. More than half way through this program, there hasn't been a significant level of permanent housing creation, funding from the city, or a plan to generate the kind of jobs that are critical to lifting that population out the cycle of transience that is the foundation of homelessness. Calling programs such as Jump Up ineffectual (which requires developers that receive TIF funding on their projects to train and hire local people into union jobs, and then help place them elsewhere when the initial job is through), he criticized it for not reaching enough people. If he believes this statement, then why hasn't he proposed expanding this program, and working to make it a model for positive development around the city?
The Wilson Yard project has been an issue that has hounded Shiller for years now. Her opponents have attacked her for not including them in the planning process. Our own observations, as well as those of our source, indicate that Shiller has worked to make the project open and inclusive, inviting opposing groups to the task force meetings. According to our source, Shiller pointed out that Cappleman hasn't attended any of those meetings.
For all her faults - and there are many - we think Helen Shiller has done a pretty good job making Uptown a livable area for a community of people that might not otherwise have access to public transportation, low rent, social services, and the lake front. She hasn't always done a good job communicating with her constituents, but she's a great negotiator, and cares more about getting things done than talking about it, which is to her disadvantage. Taking into account the level of abuse and waste that many in this city use TIFs for, we think it's commendable to try and use some of those funds to channel money back into the neighborhood.
We have some deep issues with what Cappleman and his supporters are proposing for Uptown and the 46th Ward. We can't see him standing up to developers and city department heads (nor are we convinced that he wants to). Cappleman makes much of his credentials as a social worker, yet the human component of managing a population that is coping with both mental illness and poverty is strikingly missing from his proposals. For all his talk of architecture and green spaces, the people that make Uptown what it is are sadly missing from that equation. We fear that the solution imposed on Uptown will be a mass exodus of the most vulnerable, sent away from social services, to be someone else's problem. It seems to us that there is a small group of angry condo owners that are frustrated that Uptown hasn't become the next hot North Side neighborhood. Without a comprehensive plan to do more than simply move the poor out of the ward, we're skeptical of Cappleman and and those who support him.
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Wow, this is the biggest load of crap I have read on this site - and that is saying a lot!
Half of Schulter's ward? I live in Schulter's ward - what half are you talking about? The only problem with Schulter's ward is that it's next to Helen's ward.
Cappleman came off as sounding "angry and embittered, frequently making comparisons to other wards," reported people present at the debate. --- wtf? You have got to be kidding. I WAS AT THE DEBATE!
All I know is that if I get one more g-damn friggin' robocall from Shiller asking me to vote for her, I'm going to write in Michael Bloody Friggin' Jackson. The machine (real machine, not "the Machine") has called me about four times already.
All I know is that if I get one more g-damn friggin' robocall from Shiller asking me to vote for her, I'm going to write in Michael Bloody Friggin' Jackson. The machine (real machine, not "the Machine") has called me about four times already.
WTF? Nice "reporting" - this is a shill piece editorial, and nothing else. And, Kevin, perhaps if you were a homeowner with something invested in the neighborhood, rather than a starving student, you'd have a better appreciation of the issues that Cappleman supporters are concerned about.
Thanks for offering this perspective on the 46th ward debate. I know a lot of both newer and long-term residents in the ward who agree. Shiller has a great track record (considering that she's a Chicago alderman) and Cappleman has made a lot of promises that sound good (plus a few that sound bad), but no real experience. I look forward to seeing Shiller win, and to seeing the Wilson Yard project completed!
joj: I actually have a lot invested in Uptown, both personally and emotionally. Besides being a resident myself, I have some deep connections with many of the people that live there. Also, just because I am getting my master's degree (part-time, and at night) doesn't mean that I am a starving student. Quite the contrary. I have a white-collar job, and make close to what most condo onwers in the 46th Ward are making, if a little less. If I were a homeowner, however, my opinon of Cappleman wouldn't be any different.
I heard a rumor that Kevin eats babies and puppies for fun.
This blog entry brought to you by Citizens for Shiller!
Pathetic, uninformed and completely baseless - that sums up all of your comments, Kevin. Have you even attempted to understand the issues in this campaign and what residents of Uptown deal with? Ask yourself how bad things must be that many, many people with families and full-time jobs (not paid political workers or full-time "social service" employees who hide behind that mask to work for the incumbent who secures their job future) take their unpaid, free time to post videos and blogs to try and change things in the ward?
Instead, you are a mouthpiece for Shiller without digging into the issues. You might as well have posted a link to her website - it would be the equivalent.
I await the day you try to raise a child in the 46th ward and have them exposed (literally) to what I have seen.
I guess we would have a different view of the debate if we were allowed to view it online. Oh wait, Shiller totally posted videos on her site and could care less about the rules set forth by the League of Women Voters. Why dont you report that Kevin? She was told before the debate that no part of it could be recorded or used for political purposes. Guess what...she did it anyway.
She is not allowed to have links to her campaign site on her city site....guess what! She did it anyway!
She is beyond unethical and your reporting shows how misguided and in bed with Shiller you actually are.
This is NOT reporting.
As is is obvious your paper amounts to nothing more than political litature for single viewpoint, I will no longer be reading your paper.
Please keep you dayjob, so I do not wish to bump into one of your fictional stories in a real publication.
Cut him loose, Rachelle.
This is even more insipid than his earlier posts.
Can you add this link, or even portions of this message thread from BuenaParkNeighbors.org?
p197.ezboard.com/fbuenaparkneighborsfrm2.showMessage?topicID=1806.topic
It's some good observations on the debate that seem more objective.
I have to admit, I went in to that debate leaning towards Cappleman, just 'cause I'm the kind of gal who likes a little change, but ended up firmly in Shiller's camp. I didn't think Cappleman expressed one firm idea, instead making gross generalizations and empty promises with no substance.
It seemed like the reason Shiller kept going over time was because she knew what she was talking about. You can hardly get an alderman to go to a budget hearing, let alone study the proposal enough to be able to ask 450+ questions. I may not agree with everything she's doing, but her office has always gotten everything done that I've needed done and she obviously works her tail off and knows what she's doing.
i propose that uptown designate the dragons as a community mascot. this will help provide a more unified community identity, possibly even giving everyone the inspiration to truly achieve a neighborhood identity. UPTOWN DRAGONS UNITE!
"We have some deep issues with what Cappleman and his supporters are proposing for Uptown and the 46th Ward."
Which of his proposals do you disagree with, specifically?
I'm really surprised anyone could say that Cappleman sounded "angry and embittered" at the debate. Frankly, I think those words better describe how Helen Shiller came across.
It's so insulting to say that "angry condo owners are frustrated that Uptown hasn't become the next hot North Side neighborhood." I'm one of those condo owners, and I didn't move to Uptown because I wanted it to be "hot" or like Lincoln Park. I love many things about my neighborhood, and I'm committed to working for change where it's needed--safer, cleaner streets and more retail options. Having these things won't make Uptown another Lincoln Park, nor do Uptown residents want it to be. All residents of Uptown deserve those things, no matter how much money they make.
Oh, two more things- Sean, I totally thought Cappleman came off seriously angry, very different from how he usually presents himself. And I'm a little curious - Why are you so passionate about this debate if you don't even live in the ward?
To be fair, I think most people will admit that both Cappleman and Shiller got a little testy at times during the debate, and neither of them will win any awards for eloquence any time soon. Large portions of the crowd were a little testy, too, of course!
My frustration with this piece is that it can't decide what it wants to be. If it's an attempt at straight reporting, then it fails because of obvious Shiller bias. If it's an endorsement of Shiller, then it fails because it comes off as weak due to a half-hearted attempt to be fair to Cappleman (perhaps trying to be reporting). I don't see the point. There's no value to the piece. Make a decision Chicagoist: report (the facts ma'am, just the facts) or put your money where your mouth (keyboard) is by making a strong endorsement of Shiller rather than being "skeptical" of Capplemen.
Shiller is a dirt bag piece of crap. Cappleman might not be the answer but she sure as hell needs to go. She has done nothing for the people she so tries to help either.
Did you even attend the same debate?
Shiller went over her allotted time virtually every question. Cappleman seemed more annoyed than angry.
As for Shiller she was unprepared and the few times she gave answers they were lies.
Speaking of lies here is the press release the League of Women Voters put out regarding the debate:
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact: Debbie Kirman
February 7, 2007
847-224-0109 or 312-939-5935 x33
dkirman@lwvil.org
ALDERMANIC CAMPAIGN VIOLATES LEAGUE OF WOMEN VOTERS DEBATE RULES (Chicago, IL)
The League of Women Voters of Chicago co-sponsored a 46 th Ward Candidate’s forum on January 31, 2007. The League’s moderator made the following announcement to the candidates and 400 audience members:
"The candidates have agreed to ground rules which include that no voice, image, or other duplication of this forum may be used by a candidate's representative or campaign in any campaign advertising.”
Yesterday, the League’s leadership was informed that Alderman Helen Shiller’s campaign website (www.aldermanshiller.com) is featuring video segments of the debate. Displaying this video is a direct violation of the League’s debate rules. The League has made repeated calls to the Shiller campaign headquarters to request the video be removed from their site.
The League has also received dozens of calls, emails, and faxes from 46 th Ward residents expressing their anger that the Shiller campaign site is displaying this video. The League is disappointed that our forum rules were disregarded by the Shiller Campaign and is requesting that the debate video be removed from their website immediately.
The League of Women Voters is a nonpartisan political organization whose purpose is to encourage informed citizen participation in government. The Chicago League is cosponsoring aldermanic candidate debates throughout the city. The League does not support or oppose any political party or candidates. ###
The League of Women Voters, a nonpartisan political organization, encourages the informed and active participation of citizens in government, works to increase understanding of major public policy issues, and influences public policy through education and advocacy. To learn more about the League of Women Voters, visit www.lwvchicago.org.
uptown_girl,
I am mainly upset at the tone of the article. Quoting anonymous sources to bolster your own point of view is complete crap.
I live very close to Uptown and what happens in Uptown affects me in a very real way. Crime, for example, does not stop at the ward boundary.
I have to disagree with you on how Cappleman came off. I would certainly not call his performance angry.
here's what pissed me off about the debate, and nobody seems to be addressing this at all...
there was only one question that dealt with the fact that the 46th ward encompasses any other neighborhoods than Uptown, when in fact there's a fairly large swath of Lakeview and Andersonville within its boundaries. Does Cappleman even realize that there's a whole world beyond the Wilson Yard TIF area?
I'm a Lakeview resident, and I was livid at the response both of them gave to the question of how they would deal with the problems the GLTBQ homeless youth community was having with the police in my neighborhood.
At least Helen's was fairly benign - working on the contract and whatnot, but Cappleman's was insulting. He stated that everyone needed to stop playing "the blame game" and take an equal amount of responsibility. There is no sharing the blame when cops are harassing - mentally, physically, and SEXUALLY, children that are already at risk.
To me, that was not the response of a former franciscan monk and current social worker. That was the response of someone who just didn't have a clue, and yes, I'm using that phrase quite intentionally.
It still makes me angry, just thinking of what he said. I'll be surprised if he gets much of the organized Lakeview community's support after that comment.
No worries, people of the 46th
Cappleman will get rid of those savages and give you a nice white peoples neighborhood. The America Nazi Party is alive and well folks
Are you all aware Target has not signed a letter of intent to build there. Shiller is a liar. Do you realize how bad the crime is in Uptown and she looks the other way. Do you realize she hates condos and condo owners. Do you realize she requires all developers to donate to her cause in order to approve new development. How many of you have actually had a meeting with her one on one.
And people like Kevin make a joke of The Chicagoist. You can't take this site seriously. A bunch of socialists. Move to Chavez's country he's your type of guy.
I have to disagree with a couple of comments here:
First, Shiller was not well-prepared, that is whay she continually ran over the time limit. Anybody (uptown girl), who says they were leaning towards Cappleman and changed to Shiller after the debate is full of crap. She rarely made any sense because she ran over the time. She had a lot to say about what she did in 1987, but rarely had examples of anything she has recently brought to the ward. Shiller is no longer an independent voice, she is part of the Daley machine, ready to say "how high" when Daley says "jump".
Also, the comment about Cappleman not being able to stand up to developers. What a load, look at Shiller and who contributes to her campaign. It is an overwhelming amount of developers who live outside the ward. So if your idea of standing up to developers is taking kick backs from them so they can build in the ward, then I guess you are right. The people of the ward don't contribute to her capmpaign. I find it highly unethical.
All of Cappleman's contributions have come from residents of the 46th ward, around $40,000. I thnk the people have spoken.
That map up top in not the 46th ward.
Do some research. That map is Uptown.....they are not one and the same.
Cappleman kept talking about how Ald. Shiller polarizes the ward, but the only people I ever see resorting to personal attacks are Cappleman's supporters. (See comments above.)
Cappleman said in his interview in the Windy City Times that there isn't much difference between him and Shiller when it comes down to social issues. If that's true, then I'm voting for Shiller. At least she has some friends in powerful places who might listen to what she has to say.
Cappleman's website touts the fact that most of his campaign donations came from people in the ward whereas Shiller gets donations from people all over the city. I'm worried that Cappleman doesn't have the relationships with people citywide that he'd need in order to get anything accomplished if he were elected.
Max9913,
personal attacks? How about I call you a moron!
Much of Shillers donations come from real estate types. Here is something you may be able to do with your "wittle brain".
Google the following: Illinois campaign
Go to the state site and search for Shillers donations.
Was that easy enough?
"Calling programs such as Jump Up ineffectual (which requires developers that receive TIF funding on their projects to train and hire local people into union jobs, and then help place them elsewhere when the initial job is through), he criticized it for not reaching enough people. If he believes this statement, then why hasn't he
proposed expanding this program, and working to make it a model for positive development around the city?"
Kevin - I think you misunderstood. James was not "calling programs such as Jump Up ineffectual." James was calling Jump Up itself ineffectual. This was in direct response to the question asking about his support of that specific program.
Jump Up has an incredibly, shamefully low success rate. Over 200 applicants entered the program last year. Only 7 people graduated from the program, none of whom have full-time jobs in the construction trade. James advocates for well-managed job training programs with supportive social services to ensure success. Jump Up doesn't meet that standard and obviously fails in their stated mission.
Thanks for proving my point, irishpirate.
Hey Kevin,
how come it took you over a week to write this insipid piece of crap?
Did you wait to read the Pioneer Press piece on the debate first?
It seems funny to me that you publish this pro Shiller drivel a few days after she's outed for using her campaign office for partisan activity and the League of Women Voters condemn her for not adhering to the agreed upon debate rules.
The "Jesus People" are also outed for their support of her and suddenly you publish.
Makes me wonder?
You are welcome Max.
I'll see you on election day. Crying probably. All balled up in front of the Jesus People building. Screaming at the sky, "Why, oh Why"?
"I'm worried that Cappleman doesn't have the relationships with people citywide that he'd need in order to get anything accomplished if he were elected."
Did Helen Shiller have these relationships when she was first elected? A politically experienced candidate isn't automatically the best choice.
I made a boo boo.
Above I said Shiller used her campaign office for partisan activity. It was her city office, taxpayer paid, that was used for partisan activity.
See What THE Helen dot you know what for the relevant details.
I regret the error. I also regret the quality of Kevin's writing.
ARRRRRRRRRRRRGH
seine Zeit für die Änderung im 46. Bezirk
Amy,
i think you have some good questions...
i think what helps fuel Kevin's stereotype is looking at WhatTheHelen or even the BPN message board....how many messages are simply about how bad SHiller and her supporters are? When EllenSusie posts some of the good things BPN does (like BPN Bunnies or Christmas or Halloween), then is virtually NO response (the most they got was about how one person thought BPN Bunnies had to do with Playboy Bunnies). It makes me wonder why they moved there in the first place, and would they be happy even WITH Shiller gone?
Also, for many in Uptown, Housing is their primary issue. They have been able to live with the safety issue, and would do more if they owned their home. WHy would someone work hard to make Uptown safe if they had to move out the next month?
Sure, (other than CPAN) Helen Shiller hasn't done any affordable homeownership since the early 90's (Habitat for Humanity). But James Cappleman (liek Sandra Reed before him) did not have that as an issue on his web site (where presumably all of his main issues are posted).
Amy, i believe you can be a bridge to communicate some of these issues and bring people on board who normally have distanced themselves from the Uptown Chicgao Commission crowd. Just don't give up, and focus on the positive and disavow the negative.
For Geoff:
Who says Chicagoist is a journalistic publication?
[quote]Chicagoist is a website about the Chicago area and everything that happens there. That means news and events, restaurants and nightlife, happenings, goings-on and observations.
Chicagoist was launched in May 2004 and was the second website by Gothamist LLC It is authored by a growing group of hard-working bloggers.
[/quote]
It's a blog, like WhatTheHelen is a blog. That blog includes news, but also [b]observations[/b].
So i wouldn't expect it to have well researched stuff.
I would like him to elaborate on some things (such as specific disagreements he has, and where he gets his info). But i wouldn't spend much time fretting over what he says. There are plenty of other blogs to choose from, or start your own!
I never comment anywhere, mostly because I feel like these conversations become so vituperative that they are rarely productive. This string is playing into that belief.
But I'm breaking my own rule because I feel it's important state my observations on a few things.
1. As a sometimes attendee of the Wilson Yard Task Force meetings, I feel like I can say that while the members *are* presented with a plan, they are given ample opportunity to ask questions and even to question the decisions that have been made. While a change might not be made on the spot, the recommendations are taken under advisement and have often been implemented in the next meeting. This has included concerns about parking, lighting, driveways, where buses for the school can go, what the street lighting will look like, etc.
2. I have seen every community group with a representative at the Wilson Yard Task Force meetings, including those that are typically Shiller-unfriendly, and including the UCC. They have a spot at the table, and an equal voice in the process.
3.Jump Up is not a failed program. Every new work program has a shaky start, and indeed every program that works with troubled populations - ex-offenders, dual diagnosis, homeless, etc., will have very low success rates, period. That is to be expected. As a social worker, I would think James would know those statistical success rates. Jump Up is on track, and is actually being modeled around the city.
4. Unlike what Cappleman said in the debate, Truman College is involved in Jump Up and has been from the beginning. They are highly supportive of the program.
5. James is a regular attendee of CAPS, and is very unhappy that Helen does not attend CAPS meetings anymore, and does not send her staff anymore. She used to a few years ago, but everytime they did attend they were attacked in the most vicious manner I have ever seen. I was shocked to see that kind of behavior stemming from my neighbors, who were so nice in other situations. Nobody deserved to be treated the way they were treated, and I suspect they were pulled out because being viciously yelled at for 40 minutes was not in their job description.
6. I think people are pissed at this article because they are looking at it from the point of view of only their ward, and hey, that's cool. Most people only care about where they live and that's understandable. But I'm giving Kevin the benefit of the doubt in that he's a Chicago political reporter, and therefore looking at this with a long-lens.
with that in mind:
7. Helen has developed more affordable OWNERSHIP units than 48 other alderman since the CPAN program has been created, (114 units) second only to Ald. Burnett, who has an amazing amount of growth in his ward. She's been able to do that because she negotiates the hell out of anything that comes in here, and forces community benefit agreements. Ergo, she does not just do low-income rental housing, but all types of housing.
8. Kevin was right on in saying that she's one of the only alderman using TIF funds correctly, and THANK YOU for saying it because misuse of TIFs is going to screw us all (and we should all give a shout-out to Ben Joravsky here), and at least she's making sure that money is getting funneled back into the schools and parks, where it's being taken out of.
9. She's done more for honesty in city government than any other alderman (well, she might tie with Munoz, but i think she's got the edge).
I'm an unabashed Helen supporter, that's obvious, so I'm ready to be torn apart here. But I do recognize she has her faults. Yet, my job requires that I work with a lot of alderman, and she has in my experience been by far one of the most hardworking and dedicated and HONEST alderman I have ever come across. I'm glad I live in her ward. I can trust I'm not being sold out to the highest bidder.
Rian,
if Shiller is so HONEST how do you explain the League of Women Voters issue?
Curious what part of the 46th ward Kevin lives in. Is it the area south of Montrose or the area by the Wilson stop. I wonder if he's been in Sheridan and Wilson at night. Cappelman lives around there..Shiller lives around Andersonville.
This is great and accurate reporting.
It is heartening to see something on the internet that accurately reflects what is going on in our neighborhood politics. All of these agry posts seem to help make the point of the author.
What is most telling is that many wealthy condo owners, who are the base of cappleman and common posters in online chatting, make themselves out to be VICTIMS. What is that about? To me it is very disrepectful to feign oppression writing from a heated $300,000 condo when there is real suffering in Chicago.
Then Shiller is maligned (because she talks to all community members in processes like the Wilson Yard charettes) for not being like Mary Ann Smith who only talks to Block clubs (read mostly white home owners) when she seeks community input.
Oh, and one other thing, if cappleman's supporters love the neighborhood so much, why have they been seen pooring trash around the nieghborhood and tipping public trash cans to make the ward look bad?
irishpirate: After Rian's thoughtful and thorough response, that's the best you can do? No wonder I doubt you and your ilk. You really aren't giving us much to vote for, are you?
Brian: I live off Wilson and Broadway, north of Montrose. And yes, I have been around Wilson and Sheridan at night.
With you use of the word "charettes" and language it is clear what your beliefs are. Which is fine. You have the right to be wrong.
Now as to Capplemans people "pooring" trash around.......I think you meant "pouring".
There was trash blowing up and down are streets pre election hoopla and there will be trash blowing up and down post hoopla.
The main issue is certain businesses on Broadway that use the "public" trash cans on the street for their own trash.
Any more stupid rumors you want to start?
If you support Shiller, you aren't doing her any favors by acting like those you think are bad examples of Capleman supporters.
Let the public read the negative comments and make their own decisions.
If we're going to argue, we should be talking about why we had move dinto the neighborhood in the first place...Uptown has had the reputation of being a really bad neighborhood for over 40 years. Why would someone move there if they knew Uptown was bad (and the more it gets posted on the internet, the more potential buyers will see it and possibly avoid the neighborhood!).
IrishPirate is right -- that is a map of Uptown, NOT the 46th ward (though a lot of intersection).
i don't know if he did that because Cappleman focuses almost exclusively on Uptown in talking about how bad the "ward" is.
Focusing on Uptown i think has been a handicap for those who live in Lakeview. That's why Sandra Reed and Bob KUZAS! ran for alderman after being "encouraged by the community" to run for COmmitteeman.
If Shiller does a fine job with the Wilson Yard Task Force, why is there never posting of the minutes with the decisions made by the task force, who attended the meetings, and who they represented?
I would hope that Cappleman would only want to fund organizations that can effectively demonstrate what they set out to do. Would anyone really expect an elected official to do otherwise?
Cappleman's response about a commitment to working with the police, social services, the GLBT community, etc sounded like the best way to handle such a problem. The LAC admitted that their approach of blaming didn't work. Why would it work if Cappleman used it? Where was Shiller in all of this, anyway?
"What is most telling is that many wealthy condo owners, who are the base of cappleman and common posters in online chatting, make themselves out to be VICTIMS. What is that about? To me it is very disrepectful to feign oppression writing from a heated $300,000 condo when there is real suffering in Chicago."
How exactly are "wealthy condo owners" acting as victims? What are they saying that they're victims of? I own a condo in Uptown; I don't consider myself a victim of anything. (Also, my condo was way less than $300,000... don't think I could afford that.)
Of course you'll find this "reporting" to be accurate, Cory, since you support Alderman Shiller. The article is an opinion piece.
Kevin you didn't even attend the debate did you?
It was "reported"......I would call your writing a joke but that would not do it justice.
Did you see a video of the debate? You know the edited one Shiller is posting after agreeing not to.
There is lots of good stuff posted at What the Helen which is serious. Also lots of amusing crap. Some just crap
"ILK"? What is my "ilk" Kevin?
White guy who owns property. Cuts his lawn, shovels the snow. I guess in your worldview I am trying to "whitewash" Uptown. Didn't you use the term "whitewash" in your recent posting on Pilsen?
Here we go: "my larger point was how the east side of Pilsen has been whitewashed". From Kevin Robinson.
When you use terms like "whitewashed" and "ilk" you say something about your worldview.
You are not self aware enough to realize that.
You "lefties" are just as wrong as the right wing.
Corruption and "hackery" are wrong no matter who does it and no matter the "greater" cause.
I find it fascinating that Helen Shiller's supporters accuse James Cappleman's supporters as polarizing when they are very quick to stereotype his supporters as "rich, white condo owners." As someone who knows James and some of his supporters, I can tell you that this stereotype is NOT true. His supporters includes people from all ranges of economic backgrounds, people who rent and own in the ward, and people of all ages and race. Most importantly, his supporters (and people donating to his campaign) live in the ward and want to see the ward improve.
James wants to represent and help all people of the 46th ward - all of economic backgrounds, race, age and sexual orientation. He has a vision of Uptown being a safe place to raise a family and to truly live in Uptown as a place to shop, eat, and live.
One of the reasons I am a strong supporter of James is that I want an Alderman that is open and honest and wants to hear the voices of all people in the ward. Frequently holding ward meetings during weekday mornings is not a way to hear all voices. Calling CAPS an elitist organization is not a away to show you support lowering crime in the ward, either.
I also find it morally reprehensible that a United Way agency such as Organization of the North East and a tax-exempt religious organization like Jesus People USA are actively campaigning for Helen Shiller.
This isn't reporting, its an opinion piece. Give the guy a break. It seems like this is a side project from his day job.
As for Shiller, she is a socialist idiot but her staff did give me a schedule of all the "random" street cleaning days in the ward, saving me big $$$ in parking tickets. Hence, she gets my vote.
Oh no! People with jobs and an education are moving to the ward! How dare they want to live in nice places. Soon we will have bigger problems like less crime, a larger tax base, and more legitimate businesses in the area.
Hey if you don't like us weathly condo owners move to Rogers Park!!!
Us weathly condo owners that are struggling to make our mortgage payments, pay our property taxes to suppor idiots like Shiller and pay our car payments and making the economy move and prosper. What are all homeless people contributing to our society? Nothing and always bothering us hard working Uptowners that work 12 hours days in loop to make our payments.
Shiller lives in Andersonville by the way.
jp paulus -
With all due respect you misunderstand my earlier post. I never suggested that Chicagoist is a journalistic publication. My point is that this particular piece suffers because it can't decide what it wants to be and ends up trying to be too much. There are attempts at straight reporting and hints of an endorsement (which would be the observation you point out). But the piece is all over the place and tension between the two causes the author to fail to reach both.
This piece tells me nothing. It's not reporting. The obvious bias should lead any reader to question the "facts" presented in the story. Likewise, the author has thrown some observations onto the screen, but doesn't unify them in any way. Is he for Shiller? I suspect so, but all we get is (to paraphrase): we have issues with Cappleman. The author would have been better off picking one direction to go and then modeling the piece to achieve that goal (a basic tenet of good writing--not I did not say journalism). As it stands, it seems to be just a mish-mash of things on a webpage that are just enough to get both sides riled up and arguing in the comments. (Perhaps to drive up web-trafficon the site?)
Cory Quote "Oh, and one other thing, if cappleman's supporters love the neighborhood so much, why have they been seen pooring trash around the nieghborhood and tipping public trash cans to make the ward look bad?"
It is sad that spreading lies is the centerprice of you arguement. Who is spreading trash? You have seen this? When? At what time? What day? Come-on, be specific!
I can engage in these type of rumors too.....
Cory, why were you peeing on my car tire last week? If you are truly a man of intellectual debate, why resort to peeing on the tires of Cappleman supporters? You should be ashamed! Find a better manner in which to display your vile displeasure, please.
Shiller does NOT live in Andersonville.
She lives very near the 1300 block of West Carmen.
That is the 46th ward. Very close to Andersonville, but Uptown. Feels more like Andersonville with all the smaller apartment buildings and single family homes. She DOES live in the ward.
There is a video on What the Helen dot you know what showing her residence and what it lacks.
Actually, Ross, you and other condo owners could likely work less than 12 hours a day if you didn't own cars (or, at least, buy less expensive ones) or paid too much for the glorified apartments you call condos, with all the materialistic trappings that often come with these condos.
No, I am not picking on you specifically, only pointing out how pathetic it is to whine about working hard for all the meaningless shit we Americans like to call "quality of life."
And if you want to say fuck the homeless people, sure, I can get on board, if that makes you feel better. But what about all the blue collar or low-paid white collar folks who work hard but find it difficult to live in this city, and don't have little shot of owing anything in Uptown or most other North Side neighborhoods? Fuck them too, I guess.
Take your car payments and shove 'em. Walk or bike. It's not that bad, and all those El delays give you time to read. And for all heavy lifting you do for the local economy, I assume you are actually engaged in the production of something, right--whether an object or an original idea--not just shuffling paper around and feeding off of others' wealth, or finding ways to screw other people out of their money (advertising, for instance)? You are actually making a contribution to society, right, and not just leeching off the rest of us like the homeless?
We're talking about a debate where responses were limited to one minute a piece. Even then, Shiller frequently didn't respect the time allotment given to her.
The responses could only scratch the surface, so it's kinda silly that anyone uses this to make their full decision about who to vote for. Go to their friggen website or talk to them in person.
To the person who commented that Cappleman didn't even go to the Wilson Yard Task Force meetings. Duh. The meetings are held during the day and Cappleman has a full time job. Why not hold them at times when residents can attend, unless feedback from residents is not the real goal of it all.
Outdoorsy,
I, and two other individuals personally witnessed Richard Thale dumping trash at Broadway and Wilson just prior to the 2003 election. We don't have to lie, you all (and by you all I mean Helen Haters, because I am a rich white condo owner) make it very easy to disparage you, by simply telling the truth.
Wise quote "Actually, Ross, you and other condo owners could likely work less than 12 hours a day if you didn't own cars (or, at least, buy less expensive ones) or paid too much for the glorified apartments you call condos, with all the materialistic trappings that often come with these condos."
Do you have no intellectual fuel here other than the pepetuation of this false belief that if you own a condo you are somehow rich? Uh, I own a condo. It certainly is not fabulous by any stretch of the imagination. The point of ownership is that it is my little piece of world. Now to afford just my little piece of the world, I do have to work my ass off. I rent out a room to help get by. I take the EL.
To my understanding, Helen Shiller made over $100,000 last year. I made much less than that. Now spin that. I am rich...how? Explain, Please, somehow that I am rich and evil?
I am NOT rich like our current alderman. I support JAMES CAPPLEMAN.
Bemax, you're spreading rumors just like how people say that alcoholics are given free beer if they vote for Shiller.
Do you have video proof? If you think it will happen again, go out and video tape it and then upload it to YouTube.
Otherwise, just leave it alone.
It pains me to agree with JP Paulus but he is right on the rumors. I have people send me lotsa of nasty stuff on Shiller. I post what I can prove at What The Helen dot you know what and I don't spread the rest.
If you can prove Cappleman supporters are dumping garbage cans prove it. Film it.
It sounded like bullshit.
At another site someone posted a comment about a certain Shiller supporter and drug use/emergency room visits. I said it was likely bullshit there and this is the same sort of thing.
When people act in an unethical manner, there is a pattern. Often times, the person comes across as mean spirited. I hardly think this characterizes Richard Thale. He has organized Clean & Green activities.
You need to seriously look at why you feel comfortable with lying. It's clear that for you, the end justifies the means. That's why we all wince when we hear the two words "Chicago Politics".
Shiller has clearly shown that she is immersed in this type of politics. It's time for a change. If she couldn't do the job in a couple of terms, why do we keep giving her chances.
Bemax,
Do you actually expect people reading this board to believe a baseless accusation from an anonymous post name? People are supposed to just take your word here, is that the idea? Because you stated it, that somehow makes it true? Do you have pictures, facts, non-bias observations to back this claim? No, I did not think so...just innuendo to further your spin.
Speaking of unethical behavior, facts, and independent resources, can you explain spin the League of Women voters press release posted above?
Now here is something based on facts of identifiable, non-bias sources.
Thanks for playing....
And as a reminder, Cory and Bemax, PLEASE stop peeing on car tires....geeze!
it's survival of the fittest in nature and in humans like it or not.
vise77
us condo owners pay more taxes than anyone in chicago to support the schools, the homeless and keep your sidewalks clean. So you can walk and ride you bike and eat your granolla bars.
And as a reminder, Cory and Bemax, PLEASE stop going on car tires....geeze!
IrishPirate,
I am shocked with your last post..so i bow my head in respect (seriously).
Thanks for the kind words.
I had two questions asked about my post, which I am happy to answer.
1. If Shiller does a fine job with the Wilson Yard Task Force, why is there never posting of the minutes with the decisions made by the task force, who attended the meetings, and who they represented?
My response: Unfortunately for the whole of Chicago, I have never seen or heard of an alderman taking meeting minutes and then posting them anywhere. Now someone may be able to find those one or two special alderman who do so, and good for you if you prove me wrong and please let me know who they are, but generally they do not do so. I happen to believe that would be a great community measure, just as I happen to believe they should post the minutes and attendance records for every council committee meetings on the city clerks website. Alas, we haven't quite reached that level of transparency in this city yet, but I think there's hope with Del Valle in office.
But I'm not about to go pointing fingers blaming Helen for not doing something that nobody else does.
Particularly because at every meeting, Helen makes a decided point about how each representative on the task force is responsible for relaying the information from the meeting to their membership. If that's not happening, that organization is sadly lacking organization. Now I understand that this does leave the folks who are not so involved in the dark, and that's not good. Though I do believe that many are looking at message boards for their information.
The question about it being held during the day - they start at 8:30 and are usually over by 10am, which hardly requires anyone to take the entire day off, and if it does I'm sincerely sorry that I said that, and that you have such a tight-ass employer. But I have to say that the timing has not stopped any organization from sending a representative - those meetings are packed with people.
They are held during the day because the meetings require the coordination of about 8 different city and state agencies and their employees. There is NO WAY you could get all of those groups to agree to come to a night meeting.
2. if Shiller is so HONEST how do you explain the League of Women Voters issue?
My response: I really didn't know anything about this, but when I called I was emphatically informed that Shiller and her campaign staff never agreed to any of those conditions. Now, I wasn't there for the very beginning so I don't know anything about this supposed disclaimer, but frankly I'm a little confused as to why everybody is so worked up about this...
By complaining about it so much I'm sure you're driving a ton of traffic to her website, which no doubt her campaign actually is grateful for - additionally, if everyone thought she did such a bad job, wouldn't everyone want videos of her to be out, edits and all? I know how you looove videos, my celtic friend. I suspect that some people are just upset they cut out the "TIME" shouts, which I'm actually sad about. I think they should have left those in, because it made her detractors seem very unfriendly.
JP,
even a broken clock is right twice a day.
You have one more instance of being right to go for today.
Garbage cans on Broadway, that is a first!!!
Rian,
since you missed the beginning of the debate I will enlighten you. Or attempt to. It will likely be useless but as your hero GW Bush might say "surge ahead".
One of the first things the moderator said was that this:
"The candidates have agreed to ground rules which include that no voice, image, or other duplication of this forum may be used by a candidate's representative or campaign in any campaign advertising.”
Simple isn't it. Shiller's campaign agreed to it. If they didn't they should have walked out of the debate. Frankly I think it is going to hurt her campaign. It makes no sense to me. But then I believe in mom, apple pie and the American Way. So maybe I am naive.
ARRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRGH
Rian,
The League of Women Voters--the non-partisan organization that moderated the debate--has issued a press release confirming that Shiller agreed not to use videos of the debate and expressing their disappointment that she did so. Anyone who was at the start of the debate will clearly remember the announcement by the League that videos are not allowed to be taken, and it was a rule that both candidates agreed to. Pretty compelling evidence, wouldn't you say?Shiller is on the Ethics Committee--and you don't see why people are making a big deal of this? Fortunately, her actions speak for herself--and they aren't speaking highly of her.
Even if she get's re-elected this time she will lose if she runs in 4 years. Either way her days in Uptown are numbered. And market forces will change Uptown no matter what.
Wow, apparently I'm full of crap. Thanks so much for informing me of my own opinions diz1997, I sure appreciate you straightening me out.
Shiller may have ran out of time, and she surely was not the most polished of speakers, (which is suprprising for such a longterm politician) but Cappleman had nothing of substance to say. Nothing. Empty platitudes does not a platform make. I think the reason she ran out of time is because 1 minute is way too little time to answer most of those questions. Maybe not for Cappleman, because he had nothing to say, but since Schiller has been working on these issues for a while now, she's got a little more content and context to cover, wouldn't you think?
I haven't been in Chicago or Uptown all that long, so my opinions were pretty unformed, but wow, being accused of being full of crap sure has a way of turning you against a group.
You should refrain from making accusations of someone you don't know, Diz.
Uptown Girl has seen the light and now admits to being full of crap.
Once again da light wins and da darkness loses.
PS
it is S H I L L E R
uptown_girl, what are all these topics of substance that Shiller brought up during the debate? The ones that were in clear opposition to Cappleman's "empty platitudes"? I honestly remember leaving the debate and thinking that she'd talked in circles a lot of the time. I do remember Cappleman speaking at length about the ward development plan he wants to institute and how it would work. You can also read more about his platform at his website.
Uptown_girl:
I invite you to drop by the Cappleman office if you wish to learn more about him. When I first moved to Uptown, I tried to do the same with our current Alderman. No luck though. No time for a commoner it seems...until election time. To be heard during non-election time, you have to be what she deems as a "stakeholder". A simple resident of the ward, need not apply.
You may not indeed be "full of crap", just misinformed. Wonder into the Cappleman office to learn a little more and to see what good can be done.
You are right, Ross. You should just have total control of the city because you condo owners pay so much in taxes, and you are such freaking victims of all the poor people and their bullshit.
Social darwinism, I see--that is due for a comeback, and it's nice to know good citizens of our city are fans of it. Don't worry, asshat, I'm pretty fit, even if I don't share your apparent materialism or discredited 19th-century views.
Anna Nicole Smith dead at 39.
Helen Shiller's electoral career..........dead at 20.
Some people might consider that bad taste. But considering the amount of crap being spewed here it seems appropriate.
Uptown girl, just how can anyone go into explicit detail when only one minute was allowed for each question? He did give a plan about how he would involve the community in decision making and that was refreshing. If you need more details, go to Cappleman's website or ask him yourself.
As far as who I vote for, I don't vote for anyone's supporters. I vote for the candidate.
uptown_girl,
When I moved to Uptown five years ago, and heard Alderman Shiller speak for the first time, I thought it sounded like she had the community's best interests at heart. I though she had a lot of good things to day. She was speaking about the Wilson Yard project: how it was moving along quickly, and we should fill out a survey describing what we would like to see there.
Over the last five years I have personally witnessed her spin and her lies, and how she took a true community project and turned it into a disaster. The second she sacrificed the theaters at Wilson Yard by insisting on even MORE low income housing (thus making the theater economically unfeasible) she lost my vote forever. That was the number one request of the community (as determined by the survey results), and should have taken precedence over the housing component.
I have personally witnessed her horrible track record on addressing crime in the Ward, no matter how many photo-ops she sets up right before an election that claim otherwise.
I have personally witnessed how she completely ignores a large percentage of her constituents, and cow-tows to a select few organizations, special interest groups, and the Mayor's agenda. I have personally witnessed her total lack of communication with most of her constituents for almost four years, and how she suddenly becomes verbose mere months before the election.
No matter how she spins her record, and the events that have occurred in the last five years, it won't change my mind--because I have witnessed what actually transpired. Unfortunately, for newcomers, it may take a few years for you to see the truth. If Shiller does win re-election, you'll no doubt see some of your convictions shattered.
I can't count the number of times I heard Republicans say this about the Democrats before the mid-term elections. We saw how that turned out. This election will be a vote for change--any change--in the same way the mid-terms were. Personally, I felt that Cappleman had a great deal to say--but again perhaps that is coming from the perspective of someone that has been here for the last four years.Shiller kept running out of time at the debate because she was desparate to defend a horrible record, unorganized, and disrespectful of the rules (as evidenced more now, by the posting of the videos on her Web site). Cappleman always finished on time because he was prepared, organized, and respectful of the rules. Shiller had many of the questions in advance--apparently she didn't practice her prepared response in front of a clock to determine if it would fit into the allowed timeframe. Or perhaps she didn't care...
Cappleman is very accessible (unlike our current Alderman, although she pretends to be). Perhaps you should talk to him one-on-one and ask about some of your concerns before making up your mind. Don't assume any poster here speaks for Cappleman. People are angry, and there is a reason for that anger.
This guy who wrote this is clueless. What a hilarious joke. Thanks for the laugh, Kevin whatever your name is..!! HAHAHAHA
the guy that wrote this.. he likes to go by the nickname "Kevi." Also, should I be afraid that one of you (pirateboy) may show up at our event tonight just to sock him in the arm?
Both your event and Kevin are safe from me(pirateboy).
I only believe in violence in self defense of myself or others. Insipid writing is not a provocation that justifies violence.
If it was both Kevi and I would be in da hospital........along with most of your writers and commenters .........at least on this subject.
Actually, all 50 Aldermen are on the Ethics committee, which we can all have a giggle and shed a tear at in a Studs Terkel kinda way.
The press release says 'the candidates have agreed." It was not asking the candidates at the time if they agreed. Shiller's camp said they didn't agree. Just because the League of Woman Voter's said they agreed doesn't make it true.
It all seems like a really sad misunderstanding. I imagine the candidates were a little busy getting their heads in order during the introduction/instruction period (please refrain from clapping, no jeering, etc).
You can say I'm being naive and that's cool, but anyone who works with her will tell you she's about as squeaky clean of an alderman as you will ever find in this town, so I believe she deserves the benefit of the doubt. Leon Despres, who I hope everyone knows was the most independent and fantastic alderman we've ever had in Chicago, called her the last "good one" in the council not one week ago.
I definitely don't think this is going to hurt her candidacy, but who knows. I suppose we'll see.
I feel like this whole conversation is degenerating - on both sides of the aisle - very quickly. I believe I've made all the points that I think are important to this discussion, and I have definitely noticed a lack of willingness to look at the substance of my points.
People keep repeating the same thing over and over on both sides, and I've gotta wonder if you all aren't a little bored? Most of my first post was basically ignored, except to have someone speak erroneously for the LAC and to continue the harping on this video thing.
I'm willing to admit when I'm wrong, and that there's problems in our ward, just like there is in every ward. I do not have a problem with condo owners, I hope to own myself one day. I have many techie toys, I delight in new clothes... Sometimes I do laugh at those with cars, but only when I see you digging it out of the snow, or paying $25 to park. I have no problem with anyone trying to improve their quality of life, as long as it doesn't require destroying someone else's to get there.
What it comes down to is this: I believe there is room in Uptown for everyone, but I'm sick of moving because my rent keep going up (and I make a very decent salary). I appreciate the free market, but even Cappleman admitted there's an affordable housing crisis here in Chicago. I think that Shiller is promoting development, but is trying to preserve the economic and ethnic diversity that we have, which is something that did NOT happen in most other gentrified neighborhoods. If you've seen all the condo conversions in our ward, you know that's what it's about at this point - preservation.
But it doesn't matter what I say, or how I say it. I think many people on this board - on both sides - only know how to fight, and be mean and terrible to each other, and frankly it makes me a little ill. I have so much better things to do with my time - like my job (how do you all keep your day jobs anyway?), and keeping my dinner reservations.
Have fun tearing each other apart.
Rian,
enjoy your meal. I will be eating foie gras.
One rhetorical question. If Shiller is so honest and wonderful according to Leon Depres why do businesses in the ward with liquor related issues before the city hire her attorney son? As for Depres I remember him basically accusing the first mayor Daley of taking part in the 1919 race riots as a young man. Depres' proof? Daley was from Bridgeport.......voila.
From the Chicago Reader Archives. There are more businesses than the one mentioned here:
T H E C U L T U R E C L U B
Southwest-Side Story; The Lawyer of Choice in the 46th Ward;
Author: Deanna Isaacs Date: September 3, 2004 Appeared in Section 2 Word count: 1098
Here is your first search term shown in context the first time it appears in the article:
...will reopen in the fall, after extensive renovations that he hopes will attract larger crowds. Macharello says the club has lost 80 percent of its Saturday-night crowd since some residents in the Dakota condominium next door complained about noise and he had to turn the music down. Circuit has hired attorney Brendan Shiller, Alderman Helen Shiller's son, to help it fight a dry-vote referendum poised to go on the November ballot. "There's no connection between the closedown and the vote-dry," the younger Shiller says, adding that he's helped Circuit with the process of getting some signatures on the referendum petition reversed and has...
Rian:
Are you calling the Leauge of Women Voters liars?
Wow. That reeks of desparation.
One thing that annoys me when people are debating about Shillerville is the failure to distinguish between poor working class people and the junkies/homeless/indolent/criminals/etc. in the ward.
Were MOST of the social service efforts in the 46th geared to poor working people, especially those with families, who just need modest support, I don't think anyone would have a problem with sustaining a strong effort to provide more affordable housing, better youth and family medical programs.
The reality though is that most of the beneficiaries of the social programs are in the second group. It's the clustering of people in this group and their attendant enablers (The misdirected, self serving fools who doggedly clutch after saintliness even though their futile efforts land foul more than fair.) that perpetuates the crime, vandalism, harrassment and such.
> According to our source, Shiller pointed out ...
were you there or not, Kevin?
> we think Helen Shiller has done a pretty good job making Uptown a livable area
who cares what you think?
are you an editor or reporter?
your belief is unsupported by anything in your article
this is irresponsible
Rian,
That's total nonsense, and I think you know it. Like any debate, the rules were announced and spelled out at the start of the debate. Everyone but you heard them--I guess you should try to be a little more punctual. By taking part in the debate, and not publically objecting to the rules, Shiller implicitly agreed to follow them. The League of Women Voters was the moderator--if you don't know what that means, it means they are responsible for laying out and interpreting the rules. They are non-partisan, and their press release is clearly confirming that Shiller broke the rules.The same rules that were announced were presented to both candidates before the debate, so being distracted at the start is no excuse. That's a weak defense at best, and still doesn't explain why the videos are still up on her site.
It's always good to rely on unbiased sources...Something about pots and kettles goes here...This morning, I was still undecided about whom to support on election day, but after reading this article and the many comments here (lyra's and rian's were especially interesting) and the viciousness from so many who appear to find more fulfillment in being "anti-Shiller" than "pro-Cappleman," I've finally decided, I'll be voting for Shiller. Thanks for your help.
Wow, 93 comments in one day. Is that a record or something? Somehow, I think we're going to be seeing a lot more posts designed to bring all the political schills for various candidates crawling out of the woodwork before election day!
Wow. 93 comments in roughly 8 hours. Is that a Chicagoist record or something. Call me crazy, but I bet we're going to see a lot more posts designed to bring all the political schills crawling out of the woodwork between now and election day!
Janet, it's Cappleman running for alderman, not his supporters. Why in blazes would you vote for a candidate based on what supporters would say? Don't you think your decision should be based on the candidate?
Actually, 96...i suspect we'll hit 100 by 6pm...probably a wrold record for Chicagoist...there are enough posts here to have a face to face conversation....
i encourage people like Janet to strive for that.
i know there ar a few more people like you, Janet. Are your neighbors are with the same mindset as you? i hope to hear from others like you, who can help us sortthrough the muck, and let us know what is being heard in themidst of all that's spoken.
Janet (and others) i encourage you to connect with people at buneaparkneighbors.org i sure would NOT declare who you'll vote for (unless it's Cappleman), but ease into conversations. People like ASURFC are people in the middle and can help bridge the extreme points of view with some practical unifying ideas.
Janet,
You're welcome. Enjoy your vote.
JP,
you are still do for one more correct comment for today. I haven't seen it yet.
ARRRRRRRRRGH
This morning, I was still undecided about whom to support on election day, but after reading this article and the many comments here (Sean and Robert's were especially interesting), and the viciousness from so many who appear to find more fulfillment in being uninformed and "anti-Cappleman" than "pro-Shiller," I've finally decided, I'll be voting for Cappleman. Thanks for your help.
As of this morning I was undecided on who to vote for. But after reading the IrishPirate's insightful and wonderful posts I have decided to write in his name.
Or maybe Cappleman.
I wish I had access to the IP addresses of these various pro-Shiller posts. I would guess many that many of the multiple voices are actually the same person. Not all.........just many.
It is kinda easy to do...........as I, da IrishPirate, have just demonstrated.
ARRRRRRRRRRRGH
Yes, I'm an angry condo owner - but I'm supporting Helen Shiller - and angry about the residents consistantly complaining about Uptown. I've owned for more almost 20 years and enjoy the diversity. The negative changes in Uptown are not related to crime or the poor.
> Leon Despres... called her the last "good one" in the council
If he said that, which I doubt, and you do not cite, he's wrong. The single most important duty of an alderman is their vote. Shiller votes the same as the "worst" one you can think of 99.99% of the time. Shiller's voting record is indistinguishable from any other alderman's to the 3rd decimal point. Shiller routinely throws her vote away. She is as machine as any. She is an unindicted co-conspirator in every City Hall scandal. She is an active participant in the total failure of the legislative branch of the government of our home town. She's gotta go. The future of democracy in Chicago demands it.
Please "angry condo owner" pray tell us what the "negative changes" in Uptown are related to?
I likely already know your answer, but I want to hear it anyway.
Should I tell everyone what you are going to say?
You are no more an "angry condo owner" than I am a freaking pirate.
What's the next poster's name gonna be? "Angry Cop who loves Shiller"?
I'm also an angry condo owner, and I'm supporting James Cappleman. Any complaining I do about Uptown is because I love Uptown, and I'm angry that our current Alderman doesn't seem to think it could be better, or that I deserve to have a voice in it's future. I'm angry because Uptown is an amazing place to live despite the Alderman, not because of the Alderman. I'm angry because our current Alderman claims that just because I and many others don't subscribe to her personal view of what Uptown should be means that I want to turn it into Lincoln Park!
I'm so angry with all you angry people that I'm going to vote for the least angry person on earth.
Mickey Mouse. Who could possibly argue with a cartoon mouse with a squeaky voice?
Signed,
NotWhatTheHelen?!
Let's face it.
None of the people on this web site reading this nonsense is a "swing" vote.
This is a joke.
Just take a look around your neighborhood. If you think its "just swell" and does not need improvement, you vote one way. If you think there needs to be some change, you vote the other.
Very simple.
Signed,
Also Not What The Helen
Death to Mickey Mouse.
He is a representative of the oppressors. He is all smiling and happy all the time.
He should be out there wearing a beret and causing "malarkey".
He should cheer on the Shilleristas and like my idol Che Guevara kill children and be proud of it.
Vive La Castro!
But Walt Disney was gay.
James Cappleman is gay.
Although Mickey has Minnie, we believe that is a front to hide his gayness too.
Perhaps some day, Mickey will come out of the closet when the world is ready for an openly gay rodent. We can only hope that day is soon.
Signed,
Not Mickey Mouse Either
New term for the day "web insurgents".
Head over to What The Helen dot u know what and see the post.
Quite amusing concept. Unless you are Hillary Clinton.
I dont even live in the 46th ward, live in the 48th, but cant even believe how people cant see the obvious, when you walk up Clark street in the 48th ward its vibrant and clean- then go into shiller's ward HUGE difference.. compare whats happened recently on Bryn Mawr ave, with the mess on wilson avenue.. and you are really naive or young if you can blindly support the use of tif funds for more public housing in wilson yard , without the movie theatre etc that was promised, man what a joke..Ms. Shiller is stuck in the sixties with regard to enabling type social programs for junkies etc, while intentionally telling those who work and buy homes in the neighborhood they should move to lincoln park if they want a nicer area (like thats some crime or something) .. those of us with kids etc who have been tired of being aggresively panhandled or seeing people urinate in the streets see the obvious- if you are young and idealistic and think that shiller "only wants to protect the down and out by enabling their addictions (rather then keep her voting base) you to will probably grow up some day and see the truth,, andmaybe move to nearby andersonville or something where its ok to wish for clean srteets and nice stores etc...
I agree with famed Tribune columnist, Mike Royko's, observations about Shiller's lack of real concern for the poor in his column about Uptown:
"Helen Shiller, ... has a vision of what that seedy old neighborhood should be in the future. And apparently her vision is that Uptown should remain a seedy old neighborhood. She wants to make sure that no real estate developers come into Uptown and put up nice new buildings that will attract nice new people
It's not surprising. Shiller is a protege and pal of Slim Coleman, the radical organizer who has turned Uptown into his political power base. Coleman is a Harvard grad who poses as a gritty ol' street guy. He talks reform, but used old-fashioned Machine methods to build his clout... He did it exactly the way the old West Side bosses did it in the River Wards and along Skid Row-by hauling the derelicts and drunks to the polling places and rewarding them with nickel-dime favors."
Obviously, it's not to Coleman's advantage to have Uptown go upscale. If that happens, people who move in might have good jobs and be able to think for themselves. And they would tell someone like Coleman to take a walk. Or at least to shave and bathe.
So Shiller, since recently becoming an alderman, is doing everything she can to make sure that Uptown remains as it is. She's introduced nutty housing ordinances that would make it almost impossible for anybody to renovate beat-up apartment buildings
October 6, 1987 Tuesday, SPORTS FINAL EDITION
SECTION: NEWS; Pg. 3; ZONE: C HEADLINE: SAVING UPTOWN FROM GOOD HOUSING
Not much has changed with Shiller over the years. While she has played political prostitute, flip-flopping her support among opposing special interst groups and political parties (Communist, FALN, George Ryan Republican, and now the Daley Machine, which benefit from her vote fraud operations, her only real agenda remains the same.
She doesn't give a damn about the quality of life for our poor. She just wants them warehoused and under her control where she can use them for her own political purposes.
This is truly interesting! I think the issues that are being raised have more to do with the issue surrounding urban renewal rather than the upcoming election. I am neither a condo owner, nor a home owner. I do however rent in Uptown and have wanted to for years now. My apartment is great I love the community and the diversity and would like to stay as long as my rent stays reasonable, or from the tone of this board discussion, as long as my working class clothing and face can be tolerated at my local Jewell and CTA stop. But unlike what I surmise is the large majority of Uptown folk I can never hope to buy a 300k condo or even the so called cheaper ones starting at "as low as 150". But what has happened to other Chicago neiborhoods as they go thru the phases of urban renewal always ends the same resulting in higher rent, and in the long run more expesnive condos and less apartments. It is the same driving force which is at work to tear down Adler Sullivan buildings to build huge towering condos down town. Or in an prime example the east village effect in NYC. Once a great mecca of diversity of privately run retail shops, restaurants, and boutiques, replaced with Wal Mart, Target, Prada, and other useless stores that really have no vested interested in the community at large. And it also begs the question where did all those hard working families go. But seriously lets stop the class war fare here. I am sure and know the middle class folks in this neiborhood work equally as hard if not more so than the proletariat types. And as far as the Socialist label being thrown around, since when is it a bad thing to want every American to have the same chances that the Condo, and home owners have. And another thing that is seriously interesting. If you do not like homeless people, trash blowing in the street, unwanted poor people in the grocery store, or having your child go to school with (gasp) homeless children, these things are part of urban living, if you can not handle even the smallest diversity or possibility that your child or you might have to see a homeless person on your way to work, well metra runs to Wilmette, and they have gates to their communities.
In response to the complaint regarding the Shiller robo-calls, has anyone noticed that the calls from our “Neighbors supporting Shiller” come from a for-hire California political phone bank that is also making calls for the Christian Coalition? After pressing *69 after my last call, it said the call came from 858-244-2019, clearly not from in the Chicagoland area. Going to the WHOCALLED.US website, I found these comments regarding robocalls for another candidate originating from that same number:
“Doug Lamborn Christian Coalition Autocalls: We're getting automated phonecalls from Doug Lamborn to "conservatives like us" from (858) 244-2019 which is a cell number registered in "SNDG LVTA, CA" to Xo communications.They're getting tricky, aren't they? Another out-of-state organization doing his calls for him. ...
Seems to me that this kind of call is not only annoying but very impersonal and anti-grassroots. Do you all think auto-calling annoys the Republicans who get the calls as much as it annoys us?
If so, maybe we should point out that this fellow is relying on a CALIFORNIA company to do auto-calling (i.e., he has the money to spend and he's spending it out of state, rather than having local volunteers who will call on his behalf)? So much for supporting Colorado, Mr. Lamborn"
REGARDING THE SHILLER ROBOCALLS FROM THIS PHONE NUBMER I say “ditto” regarding how these phony robocalls are anti-grassroots and don’t represent local residents and voters. But, hey, Shiller never represents Uptown residents or voters , so why should we be surprised?
Captain Crunch........I mean Pappy,
There may be gated communities in Wilmette, but not many. My limited experience with the town is that is is a moderately wealthy enclave of mostly single family homes.
It is amazing the crap that gets said here.
Personally I don't give a rat's ass what someone's income is. I do care whether they commit crimes, shit on the street, sell drugs or their bodies on MY streets etc etc etc.
I shop in the Jewel almost exclusively. Sometimes I even hit the Aldi because their name brand candy prices are always good.
So instead of moving to Lincoln Park we should move to Wilmette. Hey, Pappy.........why don't you move. My family history in this immediate area goes back to 1954. I'm staying.
Diversity? In my building or the one next door in the last few years we have had gay couples, single men, single women, blacks, hispanics, mixed race couples, single mom with kids, Asian Indians, Christians, Jews, and even a goddamn Republican.
Those are your non-diverse condo owners.
Don't let the door hit your ass on the way out!
ARRRRRRRGH
"obviously he has never visited rogers park"???
WTF! Fuck you people. That's where I am from. I was reading this thread to see what the hububub was about but you know what? People like the chicagoist staff who hate on other neighborhoods without doing shit to improve them have no say.
fuck you people.
man, that hurts.
seriously, this is not cool. fine schiller might be ok in my book, but come on. What the f do you know about Rogers Park?
I read gothamist too and they do this same shit to the outerboro neigborhoods. Rogers Park must be terra incognito to you people but it's not a bad place to live.
If you read morsehellhole.blogspot.com , you will get a Rogers Park that sounds horrible -- and that's from a longtime resident!
Not all parts of Rogers Park are "bad", but Morsehellhole ignores those areas and concentrates on how horrible life is by Morse Ave.
Kevin Robinson is just trying to have the former president of Uptown CHicago COmmission look beyond his neighborhood, and see that even neighbors who seem so much better also have their issues.
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IN 1988 SHILLER'S CAMPAIGN PROMISE WAS A COMMUNITY ZONING BOARD AND AN INCLUSIVE COMMUNITY BASED DEVELOPMENT PLAN
QUOTE "She would establish a community zoning board to give more influence to residents on development decisions ............."
SOURCE Chicago Tribune, February 4, 1987 Wednesday, CHICAGOLAND EDITION SECTION: CHICAGOLAND; Pg. 1; ZONE: C
HEADLINE: PROGRESS, FATE OF THE POOR CLASH IN 46TH WARD RACE BYLINE: By R. Bruce Dold.
YET, FOR THE PAST 18 YEARS, SHILLER RENEGED ON HER CAMPAIGN PROMISE AND WE STILL DO NOT HAVE A COMMUNITY BASED DEVELOPMENT AND ZONING PLAN.
QUOTE: Cappleman is proposing a master plan to guide development in the ward, and is promising to include all residents in that plan. Shiller responded that she wasn't sure Cappleman understood that the alderman can only negotiate with developers if they need a zoning change. Without that, her hands are tied
SOURCE: As copied from the Chicagoist story at the top of this web page)....
THE REASON SHILLER OPPOSES AN INCLUSIVE COMMUNITY BASED DEVELOPMENT AND ZONING PLAN HAS BEEN WELL DOCUMENTED...
QUOTE: "The proposed settlement would give Ald. Shiller and Slim Coleman, guru of the Heart of Uptown group, a personal stranglehold on development in their area-not only the 46th Ward but part of the 48th. And they have shown rigid determination to strangle it. The poorer and more dependent that area remains, the stronger is their political base and Helen Shiller's chances of re-election. The remaining puzzle is why the city should even be listening, let alone agreeing, to this proposal for sabotaging a ward and helping a political gang rule its turf."
SOURCE: Chicago Tribune, November 13, 1987 Friday, SPORTS FINAL EDITION, SECTION: EDITORIAL; Pg. 2; ZONE: 2
HEADLINE: THE ANTIGROWTH CRUSADERS FIGHT ON
The other key ingredient is to keep people in the dark. The less transparent, the greater the ability to do whatever you want. Have meetings during the business day so residents can't easily attend. Keep office hours at very inconvenient times for residents who work. Have no public forums. Don't let people know who is on what committees. Never publish minutes. Keep the community angry and divided, and then blame them for being angry.
You have to admit it, Shiller has the process down.
Wow Kevin, nothing like stirring up the Uptown melting pot. You did it this time. 120 plus comments in one day. That's gotta be a some sort of record?
ps. Thanks again for the Rogers Park link,. My site had a rush of new readers yesterday. I know it upsets some (JP Paulus) to see the REAL view of Rogers Park, but the truth hurts.
Craig,
Can you answer (or provide the link for) a few questions:
1. How long have you lived in ROgers Park?
2. Why did you move there? When did you realize things were bad?
3. If it' so bad, why not move someplace where you'll be happy?
4. If Joe Moore wins, will you stay in Rogers Park? If so, why?
IrishPriate: You said "It is amazing the crap that gets said here."
Finally, we can agree on something!
If a tree falls in the woods and there is no video recorder there to tape it, does it happen?
(For those of you who do not live in Uptown, broadway and kenmore are approximately 150 feet apart at wilson.)
This is the final north side gentrification throw down.
Mentally ill people were dumped in Uptown in the early 80's and the social services ended up going where the population is. The Chicago gay community has been pushed up the lakefront for the past 20 years, every time they seem to find the beauty in an underappreciated 'hood they get priced out by yuppie families. The sad part about this debate is that it seems that each party is looking for a safe place for their population.
Do you remember when Schiller let the condo developers in? Oh hell, this sounds similar. She can't win for losing. Give her some credit for trying to balance a diverse community's needs.
I live in Schulter's ward (and have for a decade now) and I'm getting priced out with the older people (and I'm only 32). I won't lie, I need Uptown to keep Ravenswood affordable.
I love where I live and I don't want to lose my home. As my alderman is a total schill for the Mayor (and developers - hello Lincoln Square Gap?) Helen Schiller at least tries to keep the city honest. I hope Cappleman has the same desire, but I still support Schiller because she has acted on her words.
Total side note, but what the hell...
Richard J. Daley the first never denied involvement in the 1919 riots, when he was 16. The albeit circumstantial case against him was not that he was from Bridgeport, but that his street gang, the Hamburg Athletic Club, was a major participant in the riots. Daley then went on to be supported by the HAC throughout his political career.
Amy, I think what is getting people so riled up is that Shiller has not been honest with the community. She also recently wasn't honest with the League of Women Voters when she refused to abide by the rules of not posting any video of the debate on her website. I would also want to remind you that she's breaking the law when she has a link to her campaign website from her aldermanic website.
Shiller is a lot of things, honest is not one of them. I really don't believe the arguement is about the amount of subsidized housing anyway. It's about subsidized housing that has decent management. It's about addressing gangbanging. It's about making it so that there is more diverse shopping in Uptown. We don't have it and you know it.
You're thinking about what will help keep your rent lower. How about what will keep the residents in Uptown safer?
Thanks Dino.
Now where is bam bam. My grandmother lived in Bridgeport around that time. She even went to the same Church as Daley for a brief period.
If members of the church took part in the riot, likely, did my granny take part in the riot?
Your logic is flawed. By the way my Granny never denied taking part in the riot.....ergo........she did take part.
Not unlike some of the comments here, I've concluded that this is just a troll article -- written only to boost outraged comments and so-called debate; perhaps just traffic for the Chicagoist.
Even as a a non-report, side project, opinion piece, this fails to serve of use to the Chicago community, and fails to serve as the basis for rational conversation. If it's just an opinion, then, as the opinion of someone pursuing his Masters degree, it is particularly ill conceived and thoughtless; based on old, tired rhetoric.
When will this cliche be seen through: that anyone running against Shiller must be in the pocket of "angry condo owners"? The discussion has already ended at that point. Wet the mud for slinging. Bring out your poison pens.
Based on the article, I understood the author did not attend the debate. Had he, he likely would have picked up the 7 or 8 identical questions -- "Answer me this, Yes or No: Will You Work to Ensure Affordable Housing in Uptown?!?" Put aside the rudeness of the question, the implied accusation, the complete redundancy. Each and every time, Cappleman answered in the affirmative, and suggested ways to extend beyond the current services to offer even more.
I thought this would be an interesting campaign, because Cappleman is clearly in agreement with so much of what Shiller advocates. Obviously, the argumentative mud of "condo vs. poor" serves too well to allow anyone to think.
As both an aside and a response to some previous comments, I have to wonder about the people who get so angry and reactionary over anything they consider to be socialist in nature. As if capitalism is advanced, endorsed or even mentioned anywhere in either The Declaration of Independence or the U.S. Constitution...
I have no problem with some of my tax dollars going toward the benefit of the greater good and my fellow man, even though I do live paycheck to paycheck (I do not live above my means--I do not own a car and am about to close on my first home only through benefit of the CPAN program)...
I imagine that the types of people who do get so worked up over the concept of socialism in general are probably very selfish and self-absorbed individuals to begin with...
Irishpirate-
Parish membership and street gangs are slightly different indicators of whether somebody was involved in a riot, but nice try. I've read the definitive book on the riots, and it's hard for me to believe that King Richard sat at home while his buddies took to the streets and killed people over what beach they could swim at.
If a card-carrying member of the Vice Lords in the 1960s--the equivalent of the HAC in 1919--claimed they didn't take place in the various Lawndale riots, would you be so understanding? After all, belonging to a violent street gang is really just the same as belonging to a church.
I say this all with the full knowledge that long-dead members of my Irish family could very well have taken part in the 1919 riots in then-Irish Oakland/North Kenwood. I guess I could pretend that they weren't involved and point to the lack of hard evidence as innocence, but I know better than that.
Irishpirate-
Parish membership and street gangs are slightly different indicators of whether somebody was involved in a riot, but nice try. I've read the definitive book on the riots, and it's hard for me to believe that King Richard sat at home while his buddies took to the streets and killed people over what beach they could swim at.
If a card-carrying member of the Vice Lords in the 1960s--the equivalent of the HAC in 1919--claimed they didn't take place in the various Lawndale riots, would you be so understanding? After all, belonging to a violent street gang is really just the same as belonging to a church.
I say this all with the full knowledge that long-dead members of my Irish family could very well have taken part in the 1919 riots in then-Irish Oakland/North Kenwood. I guess I could pretend that they weren't involved and point to the lack of hard evidence as innocence, but I know better than that.
Nick -
'More diverse shopping'. You want the Target in Wilson Yards. Great. I love Target, however I heard the main thing killing the project is the transportation impact. Montrose/Wilson & Broadway do not have the capability to handle a big box retailer.
The reality for my living situation right now is that if Uptown continues to go condo, reasonable rental prices will go. There needs to be balance.
Blaming Uptown's population on Schiller is an easy way out. It *is* a fight between rich and poor. I wish I didn't get cancer in the past year and could afford to buy a condo. But I can't. I need an affordable place to live with public transportation. That is becoming a more difficult thing all of the time in this town.
Dino,
your argument about da first "da mare" is stupid.
When did you stop beating your wife? Same type of question.
Leon Depres makes the same argument about Daley. No proof. Just hey he might have been nearby. Some guys he knew took part. Blah, blah.
If you want to condemn your own relatives based on where they lived do it. I got news for you. Most people from those neighborhoods did not take part.
When I was a kid the fookin Illinois Nazis marched and rallied often. Most people ignored it.
When Martin Luther King was attacked in Marquette Park most people from the neighborhood were not there. Condemning your relatives or anyone because of where they live or some association is stupid.
The Vice Lords and the Hamburg Club are not nearly the same thing. I am not claiming the Hamburg members were saints. But they were not all criminals.
If a cop beats the hell out of an innocent kid are all cops guilty? If Hamburg members took part in the riots, which they did, are all Hamburg members guilty?
With the tight rein his mother had on Richard the First it would not surprise me if he stayed at home. He may not of. Maybe he went out there and beat and killed. But until you have proof of it.......shut your pie hole.
I've said the same thing to Leon Depres.....except I was more polite.
Cory,
Thanks for educating those who don't live in Uptown; the two streets are half a block apart, rather than a full block. However, I do live in Uptown, and I'll repeat my concern. This rumor continues to spread without any proof, and the story keeps changing. You try to downplay that the intersection it occurred on has changed from story to story by mentioning that the two streets are closer together than normal. That's a weak excuse, but whatever. In addition, you don't respond at all to my point that the perpetrator changes with each telling as well. Even if we assume you aren't lying and something did happen, how are we supposed to put any credibility in your recall when the event took place four years ago and the details keep changing?Further, you have never answered why, if you (or your friend, depending on the telling) could identify the perpetrator, you didn't file a police report or otherwise report the incident when it happened? Why do you suddenly bring it up four years after the fact?
Finally, if you are the Cory I think you are, you fail to mention that you are heavily involved in the Organization of the NorthEast (ONE), and are hardly an unbiased source.
Nick, are you saying the answer to keeping Uptown affordable for you is to keep the retail blighted for everyone?
she is just a piece of shit like an old car, broken down and un-reliable. she might have a few more miles on her for another 4 years but she has been ridden pretty hard and probably will stall for sure in the next 4 years if she get's a tune up on election day.
and if she gets in there will be a lot of oversight on her from the residents and the feds.
Nice to see that you've already given up on this election.
The answer to affordable housing is not to artificially keep rents and prices low by creating and maintaining a high level of "suck" in the 'hood - the L stations suck, the retail sucks, the level of cleanliness sucks, the number of shootings, murders, and other violent crime sucks, etc.
The answer is to make an environment where we can have MORE AND BETTER PAYING JOBS so that we can afford to not have to partake in government programs to assist us over the long term.
The idea is to have a BETTER PLACE TO LIVE and to HAVE A HOPE FOR A BETTER FUTURE FOR EVERYONE.
Why is that so freaking hard to comprehend?
This whole "greedy rich condo owner" line of nonsense is just that. Nonsense. We have yet to meet a single property owner who wouldn't give the shirt off their back to help someone in need. We personally donate hundreds of dollars worth of clothing, shoes, coats every year.
Has anyone who makes the claims of "greedy rich condo owner" ever bothered to think that maybe many of those people live paycheck to paycheck? That maybe after paying their mortgage, taxes, assessments, and utility bills, there isn't much left over month-to-month?
Knock off the bullshit already, and let's start getting serious about crime, jobs, education, and corruption.
test
I felt compelled to post again. It's a bright morning in Uptown and my anger is now more appropriately described as disapointment.
I'm disappointed in my neighbors who say they want to live in a diverse neighborhood, but don't try to meet people who are different than they are. And who make fun of the unfortunate residents in the ward. Or use the unfortunate to promote themselves. The nasty comments on multiple boards. Just read what was written here. Personnel attacks are not called for in any circumstances.
I'm disappointed in residents who complain about Uptown, but don't participate. I own a home, work and try to attend community meetings when possible. Usually I just have to listen to residents complain about what they don't like. The arguments with no basis of truth. Many are not even new. And residents who are hiding behind ward politics rather than trying to work together.
Take a walk and enjoy the morning. Say hello to someone you don't know.
Head on over to WHAT THE HELEN dot u know what and see the link to the Reader story on Helen Shiller and her lovely way of doing business.
Why is Chicagoist blocking posts that do not insult other posters or use profanity?
People who support Shiller tend to mischaracterize the issue. In some cases, maybe it's not on purpose, but I think many of her supporters are more cynical in their spin.
It's NOT rich versus poor, it's functional versus dysfunctional.
There are functional, yet poor people in the 46th as in other wards who are sick of the coddling of the masses of dysfunctional low lifes who flock to the 46th and torpedo the quality of life. They are sick of it just as much as the "wealthy condo owners". Maybe more so, since they often happen to send their children to schools that are around the corner from half way houses teeming with dope fiends and predators.
We know that whenever a neighborhood stabilizes and begins to attract more commerce that rents rise. Shiller's solution to this "problem" seems to be to keep the largest stock of nutjobs possible hanging around the ward in order to keep things affordable. To pretend that the neighborhood is only "diverse" if it includes an unhealthily large minority of derelicts is ridiculous.
The reality is that no single ward can act as a balance to class polarization. Not without becoming a hell hole. Having social services, even those that service addicts and the homeless, subsidized housing, clinics and the like is a good thing. In moderation. If urban planning has taught anything over the last 50 years it's that clustering poor people together is a recipe for disaster-multiplying their, and society's, problems. Clustering dysfunctional poor people together is a recipe for Uptown.
What needs to happen is that the ward needs for some of the programs that attract criminals, addicts, the homeless and the shiftless to close. Too many of these programs coddle people who have proven that they are not likely to straighten up. Ever. People who prey on the sympathies of others and manipulate them into granting chance after chance. People who know how to appeal to the self serving, messianic zeal of many of the counselors that staff these programs.
In a world with limited resources, the lion's share of aid needs to target poor children to break the cycles of poverty. The focus needs to be placed on helping people who genuinely want to improve their lives, specifically those with families. Education, mentoring, afterschool programs, health care (including mental health care. If most of the deluded counselors and activists who overreach trying to "save" 10 time losers would instead work with kids, the landscape would be much different.), skills and job training for parents, and affordable housing for families is where the action should be.
But it's not. Why not? Because Shiller and her allies either have a worldview that leads them to offer ineffective, inefficient solutions to the wrong problems or, much worse, because she knows she's found a great recipe for staying in office, ruling over her little fiefdom while being given the adulation of those who have been tricked into thinking their interests are aligned with that of the filth of society and those who enable them.
"Education, mentoring, afterschool programs, health care (including mental health care. If most of the deluded counselors and activists who overreach trying to "save" 10 time losers would instead work with kids, the landscape would be much different.), skills and job training for parents, and affordable housing for families is where the action should be."
i pretty much agree with that...
Whatthe anti-Shiller movement, so far, has failed to do is to show a sincere care for these issues. Uptown Chicago COmmission is the power base for the anti-Shiller movement, and they are not perceived to be for this issues. Rae Mindock, who attempted to bridge that gap, was forced out several years ago, and there hasn't
The swing voters, that COULD be persuaded to switch their vote, don't seem conviced (so far) that an ant-Shiller candidate would truly address those issues, but rather just move those people to someone else who has to deal with them (and most likely, won't have the resources to help)
The only social service agency in Uptown that the UCC seems to have postively acknowledged is the Salvation Army family shelter. But i am not aware of any of the other 75+ area agencies that they either support, or are willing to help improve by being involved.
James Cappleman is a social worker, but not in the community, so that the "problem" people are somewhere else, not where he lives. (Certainly the perception...good PR can change that)
I have been saying for years that if UCC & UNC would do things like sponsor (i.e. host, not necessarily staff) seminars that would make people CPAN eligible (ROgers Park COmmunity Development Corp. is one such qualfying organization), you could legitimately spin it so that they made X number of Uptown residents homeowners (even if it's not anywhere near Uptown)
Also, i have been saying for years, that if 10% of the anti-Shiller voters were to start mentoring a youth aged 15 & older, right after the elecion, they would be able to gather enough votes to beat Shiller (by positively influencing youth, their family, and friends).
There are things happening like this. EllenSusie regularly posts them on BuenaParkNeighbors. But perceptually, it seems like a blip, as there are almost NEVER any responses that they of people's involvement (the biggest reponse to EllenSusie's messages involved mistaking Buena Bunnies, an Easter event, as somethign to do with Playboy Bunnies).
Bottom line -- i am not arguing anyone's quarrels with Shiller & what they feel she isn't doing. i am just saying, if the want guaranteed success, they need to be active -- and communicate -- BETTER responses to the issues that SOME part of the Uptown community faces (and ackowledge that they are a LEGITIMATE part of the community).
JP, when some of these social services start acting as good neighbors to the community, perhaps they would get more volunteers. I do volunteer work but no way in hell would I do so for most of the social services in Uptown. The teachers at Uplift School didn't help matters any by alienating the kids from the community, especially with that mural that promoted violent revolutionaries. There's no way in hell I would volunteer there after seeing that mural. It was insulting to everyone in the community.
Rae Mindock has managed to alienate members of UCC, UNC, and her own block club which went defunct because of her. Her people skills are lousy and she will keep alienating people wherever she goes. Perhaps that's why she gets along with Helen so well.
You keep putting demands on what UCC should be doing. They have no paid staff and as it stands, there are WAY TOO MANY housing organizations in Uptown. If they wanted to focus on housing, they would merge with ONE.
You might pretend to be some political campaign expert, but you are not. You are successful in alienating a lot of people who keep telling you over and over again that you are too self-promotional, but that's about it. Why don't you focus on the aldermanic race in your own ward?
Since when is Lincoln Square (47th) dangerous? Uptown is where the public housing, assisted living and EZ drive thru drug strips are.
Don't know if anyone will read this anymore...
With UCC...i am not saying they need to start a housing program (especially if UCC thinks there is a housing program that WORKS). i am simply saying they should HOST and PROMOTE programs. Since they represent "the community", surely they can ask someone from the community to get a room for a housing seminar that Rogers Park COmmunivty Development Corp. (and perhaps Lakeside Dev. Corp.) does to qualify people for CPAN.
They can also get the word out for support for making places like 4640 N. Sheridan Co-ops -- a form of affordable home OWNERSHIP
If UNC can plaster flyers for an "artist residence" that no one was truly interested in, why can't UCC rally such support for real programs that are out there.
UCC is a 501c3. They are eleigible for FAR MORE grants than just the HRAIL and the CAPS grants. They can also receive TAX DEDUCTIBLE donations. If 10% of those who voted against shiller gave just $100 a year (less than $10 a month!), they would have enough for 1 full time person, some programs, and even a part time or temp person.
As for Uplift...the mural has changed. And tutoring means you are working with 1-2 kids, NOT the "revolutionaries." If UCC members worked with 1-2 kids each, you could reach their families. If you avoid the school (except to protest), you have given up that territory to Shiller, and show that your group doesn't really care about the school or the kids.
Regarding Rae Mindock -- she has tried to bring people to gether...in 2002-2003, she had people come to her home..people from COURAJ, but also Buena Park Neighbors. She was a very gracious host.
There are some anti-Shiller people (usually the loudest ones) who contribute to the alienating as well. Denying that perpetuates the negative stereotypes.
i am simply giving a perspective of ANOTHER part of what is supposed to be a DIVERSE community. We will see Feb. 27 if that is so.
If you are interest in contintuing th discussion, you can also e-mail me at jpuptown-chicagocom
Sorry -- that didn't come out right (i was "hiding" my e-mail address from spambots)
It is jp[at]uptown-chicago[dot]com
I am picking this discussion up late and maybe this has been expressed, but in terms of Helen Shiller, her inactivity has hurt the very people who need an alderman's help. The Wilson Yard "project" has been going on for 10 years and no progress has been made. Certain people in the community are not even certain if the Target will be built on that vacant land. I read this in the Tribune yesterday and I think it is fitting. Hard-working Ald. Emma Mitts stood firm in her opposition to the big-box ordinance and her ward has reaped the benefit: The city's first Wal-Mart opened in her ward in September. How many people in the 46th ward could benefit from a Target opening up and providing jobs and benefits for the very people who need them. You cannot afford housing without a job. I understand that $7.50 an hour will not allow people to run out and purchase a new condo, but it will help the people who are unemployeed in the ward. Plain and Simple, Helen has failed the very people in the ward who have supported her. I think it is time to give someone else a chance.
Kevin, this article is actually laughable and wrong.
You left out the part where Cappleman said he couldn't attend the meetings to help plan for the Wilson Yard project, because Schiller holds the meetings during the work day. He and most everybody else in the Ward actually have to work and can't attend.
That is just one of the several examples where you manipulate the truth to endorse Schiller.
If you want to write an article to endorse Helen Schiller, then just do it. Don't pretend to write an article about why the Ward is divided and then cowardly use it as a means to push your own political agenda.
I don't care who you're voting for. The fact of the matter is you're a coward, and no one should trust a person who can't honestly come out and say how it is he or she really feels.
"What needs to happen is that the ward needs for some of the programs that attract criminals, addicts, the homeless and the shiftless to close. Too many of these programs coddle people who have proven that they are not likely to straighten up. Ever. People who prey on the sympathies of others and manipulate them into granting chance after chance."
This is the smartest thing I have heard on here. I have lived in the 46th ward for several years and have always been mystified by how angry and aggressive the pan-handlers here are. They do not evoke my pity, but honestly-my fear. I don't feel bad about that. These are dangerous and unstable people I see. As a resident of the ward, and a single woman, it should not be too much to ask to feel safe. Life is difficult for everyone, I understand, and sometimes it is harsher on some people more than others. However, I do not feel sorry for people who play victims in this world to try and get by. Begging me for my money I work hard for and swearing at me when I don't give it to them is unacceptable. I don't know who will win this election, but it obvious that there is a tremendous amount of dissatisfaction in our neighborhood. If you are dissatisfied, and I am, perhaps it is time for a change. What we have now is obviously not working.
I am a homeowner in Uptown along with my wife. We have recently had stabbings, shoottings, car smashing, there is garbage everywhere, most stores near us are boarded up, the el station is a mess. I love the diversity of my neighborhood and I don't want that to change but we all want change. Shiller has had 20 years and has done little or nothing except for polarizing a community. I am not voting her because Cappleman has proved to be that far better with ideas, I just can't stand the fact that she seems to pay no attention to her constituents, she is rude and the neighborhood looks like a dump. I am willing to try something new and hope everyone else is too. She has had her test and failed...NEXT!
I voted for Cappleman this morning...and let me tell you, IT FELT SOOOOO GOOD!!!
I love my neighborhood, I really like my neighbors, and I'm proud of my condo investment. For those of you crying because you "can't afford rent" as more of me (young upwardly mobile professionals) move in and try to make the neighborhood shine - I say "SEE YA!!!"
That's life people. That's the way the cookie crumbles. The ambitious and self-enabled move forward, while the complacent get left in the dust.
Shiller has had 20 years to completely fuck up Uptown. Fortunately the innate gravitas of the neighborhood has worked on it's own to attract a degree of gentrification...and this is where Cappleman has a very good point - it's absolutely pathetic that it's taken this long to see a solid gentrification movement in progress. We're just a few blocks north of Lakeview, and just a few blocks south of Andersonville - We've been the rotting meat of what could be a beautiful sandwich for way too long!!!
I know everyone with a mortgage in Uptown is voting for Cappleman. You'd be an absolute fool not to. I just hope there's enough of us to overthrow the caniving bitch who's holding our property values hostage...especially in light of her Wilson Yard incompetencies.
May the gang-bangers who tagged the Uptown Theater beware.
Winos hanging out at the Wilson L stop, pack up your shit.
Blue flashing crime light over Starbucks, lets hope you can be de-commissioned soon.
Love Uptown - Go Cappleman!!!
Oh, and the slanted article above that pissed me off to no end is absolute rubbish. It says a lot about the lack of class this bastard child of LAist really has. You can trust that I'll do my damnest to never use one of your advertisers.
It is the day after the election, and it had been a poor day for incumbants indeed, all over Chicago. Except in the 46th ward. Looks like old Helen squeaked by with her paltry 700 votes to pluck a victory for herself at the expense of Uptown.
And I just wanted to say thanks!
Thank you people who voted for Helen. I guess you must really enjoy the police lights in our neighborhood, and the shop-less stretch of wasteland between Montrose and Lawrence. "That’s just great!" You say. After poisoning our futures, you will probably move to Lakeview in a few months anyway. What do you care? You will tell all your Lakeview friends you moved because of the crime, or it just wasn’t quite as nice as Lakeview. You went to the polls and while shrugging your shoulders and put back the person who was there already because she gave you a street-cleaning schedule, or because you figure she has more city-council clout, (these are reasons from Schiller-people above by the way) or because you didn’t care for Cappleman. Once you can afford Lakeview, you will just move there with that bitter look on your face I have seen from all you movers, without trying to change our neighborhood or casting your ballot with familiarity over progress.
Thanks for thinking ‘Nazi Germany is alive and well’ (again par above) if you think Nazi Germany means more job opportunities for impoverished locals and cleaner streets! Thanks for thinking people who want commerce must be inherently evil. After all, nothing makes for a better neighborhood than low-income projects planted on prime real estate! Who needs a movie theatre? Only stupid yuppies watch movies, and yuppies just suck. I mean having a job? Come on! There goes the neighborhood. What? You mean you wouldn’t want to walk through some projects to get to a Target? How unenlightened you are. How ignorant! After all, it is because of you we will have more marvelous low-income housing, perhaps a new Cabrini Green. Oh wait. You won’t be around anyway. Well, I thank you for the soon-to-be installed crime lights! I think their pretty blue flashing is soothing in the twilight.
I hope you sleep well. :)
It is the day after the election, and it had been a poor day for incumbants indeed, all over Chicago. Except in the 46th ward. Looks like old Helen squeaked by with her paltry 700 votes to pluck a victory for herself at the expense of Uptown.
And I just wanted to say thanks!
Thank you people who voted for Helen. I guess you must really enjoy the police lights in our neighborhood, and the shop-less stretch of wasteland between Montrose and Lawrence. "That’s just great!" You say. After poisoning our futures, you will probably move to Lakeview in a few months anyway. What do you care? You will tell all your Lakeview friends you moved because of the crime, or it just wasn’t quite as nice as Lakeview. You went to the polls and while shrugging your shoulders and put back the person who was there already because she gave you a street-cleaning schedule, or because you figure she has more city-council clout, (these are reasons from Schiller-people above by the way) or because you didn’t care for Cappleman. Once you can afford Lakeview, you will just move there with that bitter look on your face I have seen from all you movers, without trying to change our neighborhood or casting your ballot with familiarity over progress.
Thanks for thinking ‘Nazi Germany is alive and well’ (again par above) if you think Nazi Germany means more job opportunities for impoverished locals and cleaner streets! Thanks for thinking people who want commerce must be inherently evil. After all, nothing makes for a better neighborhood than low-income projects planted on prime real estate! Who needs a movie theatre? Only stupid yuppies watch movies, and yuppies just suck. I mean having a job? Come on! There goes the neighborhood. What? You mean you wouldn’t want to walk through some projects to get to a Target? How unenlightened you are. How ignorant! After all, it is because of you we will have more marvelous low-income housing, perhaps a new Cabrini Green. Oh wait. You won’t be around anyway. Well, I thank you for the soon-to-be installed crime lights! I think their pretty blue flashing is soothing in the twilight.
I hope you sleep well. :)
Just went swimming with a couple guys who grew up in Uptown like I did. We all have school-aged children and 2 of us still live here as home owners and 1 of us is a landlord. We have middle incomes now. We had a good laugh at some of the above comments. Here's mine.
What a bunch of whinny, spoiled, middle class brats!
We all want the neighborhood to be nice. Want to help?
How about
-helping affordable housing work by asking for better oversite and accountability so gang bangers can be kicked out.
-asking for better services for the mentally ill instead of asking them to simply go away.
-working with developers and landlords to secure affordable housing for families with children so the children don't suffer as they shuffle from one school to another.
-pressuring condo building owners to shovel so a mother or disabled person can walk down the sidewalk?
Think I'm a puppet for Schiller? Wrong! We've butted heads. But she's the only politician I've seen who consistently works for segments of Uptown's population that most of you don't seem to give a rats ass about.
HELEN SCHILLER IS AN ASS AND SHOULD BE THROWN OUT. WE DON'T NEED ANYMORE LOW INCOME HOUSING OR MENTALLY CHALLENGED PEOPLE LIVING IN THIS WARD. WE SHOULD TAKE CARE OF THE ONES WE HAVE AND SEE THAT THEIR NEEDS ARE MET. WE NEED STORES THAT WE CAN WALK TO, RESTAURANTS THAT WE CAN EAT AT AND ENTERTAINMENT TO GO AND SEE. THE SIDEWALKS SHOULD BE CLEANED UP AS WELL AS THE EL STOP. WE NEED TO MAKE IT SAFE FOR EVERYONE! IT DOES NOT TAKE THIS LONG TO GET THINGS MOVING. SHE SUCKS! WE NEED A STRONG LEADER WHO ALSO HAS AN OPEN DOOR POLICY TO MAKE THIS WARD BETTER FOR ALL WHO LIVE IN IT.