Dear friends: Here is a copy of the letter I sent to the Univ Chi Police, 5th ward alderman, Mayor and Toni Preckwinkle. Please feel free to use this, edit this, and pass on to people who can help!
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Dear Ms. Hairston,
We are very saddened to learn of the death of Aeyanuna Rogers, a 22 year old Northern Illinois University graduate, who was shot and killed on the pathway between the Point and the 57th street Beach at 11pm 5/30/2011, Memorial Day evening. We understand a 17 year old boy was shot in the leg and wounded near the restrooms of the 57th street beach.
I see that the Chicago Park district states that the Beach closes at 7pm, and Promontory Point park closes at 9pm, yet last night thousands of people were at the Point and the Beach well past these times.
For the past two years, since the opening of the Bar Louie restaurant, and particularly with the closing of the Shoreland Dormitory, we here in East View, 5490, The Park Shore, The Flamingo, and 5500 S South Shore Drive have witnessed a dramatic surge in large numbers of people coming to this area on warm days and evenings. People come to enjoy Promontory Point, the 57th Street Beach, and Bar Louie. However, after 3pm and extending until sunrise on warm days and nights, people also sit in parked cars and there are drug deals and acts of prostitution.
We know the University and CIty Police Departments are well aware of the correlation between the first warm days and a sharp spike in crime. For this reason it was shocking that as thousands of people came to this area on 5/30/11, we saw very little police presence from the CPD and the UCPD.
It's hard to understand how so much manpower and effort could be made at one Beach location (North Beach), while the 57th street Beach did not even have a car patrol or bike police visible for most of the afternoon and evening, until well after 10pm.
We're very concerned that without a significant effort made toward 'peace-keeping' policing by both the CPD and UCPD, this will be just the beginning of a great deal of violence this summer.
After two years of very explicit concerns relayed, and now this death and additional shooting, we hope we can count on Police presence on friday, saturday and sunday evenings, and holidays, at a bare minimum?
I am also sending a letter to the Chicago Police Department for our precinct, and Robert Mason, head of Safety and Security for the University Police, as well as Board County President Toni Preckwinkle, and Mayor Rahm Emmanuel.
http://www.chicagonewsreport.com/2011/05/aeyanuna-rogers-recent-college-grad.html
Sincerely,
Laura 'Hussein'
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Below I have copied my correspondence on this activity to the University Police from a year ago:
-----Original Message-----
From: Laura
Sent: Monday, May 24, 2010 12:11 PM
Subject: Car and pedestrian traffic creating potential accidents at 55th and South Shore drive.
Dear Mr. Nimrocks-
I am a resident of S. South Shore Drive in east Hyde Park, 60615.
I am writing to bring to your attention the situation at 55th and South Shore Drive. With the arrival of warm weather we've seen an increase of people enjoying the park and the beach near 55th and South Shore drive. While this is expected, in past years due to the presence of the University's Shoreland Dormitory, we could count on a police presence on evenings and weekends, when pedestrian and car traffic peak.
My husband, neighbors, doormen, and I were very concerned yesterday however, to see more cars and people than we've ever seen in 6 years of living here, with no police presence until 10:30pm after complaints were phoned in.
My concerns are primarily about the sheer number of people, the number of cars and the chaos of the traffic when there are no police presence, and the inevitable safety risks that may follow.
From 2pm onward yesterday the car traffic was such that cars were speeding from 3 directions, trying to proceed north on south shore, while cars coming from the north turing right and left onto 55th were speeding through the stop sign without slowing down. We saw many pedestrians/bikers trying to cross through the cross walk with cars flowing through the cross walk 3 abreast, competing for a spot in the narrow lane with complete disregard for pedestrians and other vehicles.
By 9pm we noticed that the car traffic was still as busy and dangerously chaotic, and in addition there were approximately 300 people lining South SHore drive, sitting on the tops of parked vehicles, sitting on the chain-link fence of 5490, standing in and around the parked cars, while traffic continued to present safety risks. In addition, there were approximately 200 more people in the grass and closer to the under pass leading to the Point.
The majority of the people were calm individuals enjoying the warm night, but there were also large groups of young adult males who appeared dressed in street-gang type roaming up and down the street, calling out to and harassing pedestrians and people in cars. There were doubled parked vehicles with loud music and people entering and exiting these stopped vehicles, which were blocking the flow of traffic until it was at a stand-still most of the night from 9-10:30 when the police arrived.
Our doorman who has worked at this location for a decade noted that he had never seen the crowd as large, chaotic and unruly as he observed last night, 5/23.
Most alarming is that 55th and South shore appears to be a destination in warm weather for more potentially nefarious activity as well, as noted by Mrs. Heather Refetoff last year at this same time. Namely, the area around "the Pointe" at 55th and South Shore appears to be a summer "destination" for drug sale and use, street partying with loud music, food, drink and sexual activity, as evidenced by the empty bottles, used drug paraphernalia, and dirty condoms visible on the street this morning.
I have placed a call with our Alderman, Leslie Harrison, and plan to contact the local CIty of Chicago police dept. as well to make clear our concerns. We are also counting on the University Police dept. to take action as there are many faculty members and graduate students of the University, and countless children of the University of Chicago Lab school, still residing in this area of east Hyde Park.
In the past, Police presence has dramatically reduced the chaos and "scofflaw" patterns of the traffic, and it has also put a damper on the marauding young males and some of the drug and alcohol consumption in and around the parked cars.
We are requesting that you consult with the city, and find a way to ensure the presence of a patrol car near the parking lot at the end of 55th street, and another car at the cul-de-sac where south shore meets Lake Shore Drive, in order to monitor the growing pedestrian and car traffic and diffuse the more illegal activities before this situation presents yet another Hyde Park "crime disaster" such as those that have graced the headlines of the local media over the past few years, further justifying the northside/suburban
perception that the University of Chicago and Hyde Park is a crime-infested neighborhood.
Thank you in advance for your prompt attention to this developing situation, and please let me know if I can assist in any manner.
Sincerely,
Laura
----- Original Message -----
From: "Heather Refetoff" <hrefetoff@sprynet.com>
To: "Rudy Nimocks" <rend@uchicago.edu>
Cc: "Robert J. Zimmer" <president@uchicago.edu>; "Eleanor Coe"
<eleanorcoe@ameritech.net>; "Onel, Kenan" <konel@peds.bsd.uchicago.edu>;
"Laura Lambert" <lamb5@earthlink.net>; "Corinne Morrissey"
<6morriss@jmls.edu>; "Diane Lukoff" <diane_lukoff@comcast.net>
Sent: Saturday, July 26, 2008 12:23 PM
Subject: Re: 55th and South Shore
Thank you for your prompt response to my complaint about the street
activity
at 55th and South Shore Dr. May I make the following points, which I hope
will be helpful.
1. The unpleasant activity on the street is not Park related per se, it
seems to ebb and flow throughout the year to a greater or lesser degree
directly related to the amount of police surveillance. Naturally it is
greater in summer because with warm weather people stay on the streets for
longer periods; partying in and around parked cars is no doubt
uncomfortable
in winter.
2. I have a direct view of the parking lot entrance from where I often
sit
in the evening and activity can pick up instantly creating an absolute
carousel of cars through the parking lot, which ceases as soon as a squad
car turns up.
3. People on the street is not the issue, it is the behavior of some that
is the problem, and that element has increased this summer more than in
the
past ten years that I have lived here. In recent years I worry about
safety
when coming home in the evenings to park on the street.
4. I believe that this parking lot and adjacent streets have become a
"destination" for the problems I mentioned in my letter to President
Zimmer,
namely drug sale and use, street partying with loud music, food, drink and
sexual activity, as evidenced by the refuse on the street and confirmed by
conversations with City police patrolmen. There has also been the
beginnings this summer of some very noisy motorcycle presence. I think
the
situation needs to be diffused before it presents yet another Hyde Park
"crime disaster" such as those that have graced the headlines of the local
media this past one or two years, further justifying the
northside/suburban
perception that the University of Chicago and Hyde Park is a crime
infested
neighborhood.
5. Finally I would again like to mention that despite the summer decrease
in the student population of the Shoreland there is a very sizable number
of
graduate students resident in the Flamingo, we currently have four post
docs
there, three single women in the late twenties and one male, (2 Italian,
1,
Spanish and 1 German). I would hate to have any one of them become victim
to the current evening and late night activity on their doorstep.
May I avail myself of your email to comment further as matters progress?
Heather Refetoff
On 7/26/08 10:34 AM, "Rudy Nimocks" <rend@uchicago.edu> wrote:
Dear Ms Refetoff:
We are aware of the problem and will be working with Commander Doty in
order
to devise a long term summer collaborative patrol strategy specifically
for
that area. You are absolutely on point, we are being victimized by one of
our
most important community successes, good public safety. This problem is
particularly perplexing because we cannot deny access to public streets
and
recreational areas to anyone, but it is nevertheless a problem we must
seriously address. I promise you we will do precisely that.
Rudy Nimocks
Chief of Police
and Security Services
University of Chicago
and Seurity Security Services
--------------------------
Sent from my BlackBerry Wireless Device
Laura,
A BIG thank you for sending this and providing contact information for these individuals. Funny, right after I received this e-mail, I had just concluded a long letter to my condo president (I'm a resident of the 1700 East condo, which is right around the corner from this madness). We're in the process of contacting both Leslie's office and CPD about this matter. Monday night was horrible. I made an attempt to take my nightly walk at the lake; I know on warm weather days to venture nowhere near the beach (due to the element that comes after 7:00pm) so I entered the "Point" entrance on 55th and went north along the lake path towards 51st. I turned around after only walking for 15 minutes, due to the thugs and element that had taken over that day. I have never had a feeling before that "something is going to happen, someone is going to be shot tonight." Sadly it happened. I too contacted Leslie's office yesterday (along with most of my friends in the building). This is serious and we need to take action and not let this trash take over the South Shore/Hyde Park area. It's not even officially Summer yet and we're dealing with this. Remember, if everyone calls/e-mails, we have strength in numbers.
Thank you as well Lisa! We have to stay vocal until the currently policing policies have changed - they can no longer ignore this area. I have heard the CPD actually say sometimes the Point and Beach get so overcrowded at night that they don't send in the Police because they anticipate they simply don't have the manpower? Unacceptable!
This is totally unacceptable! I spoke with my neighbor and a few relatives (all CPD). They said that what we have to do is ALL complain to the commander about what's happening here (again, strength in numbers). When they get so many complaints, resources are THEN re-deployed to these hot spots. Again, if we don't want this trash over running our neighborhoods, pick of the phone or send a quick e-mail and make your voice heard.
Printing letters now, but if you know a phone number...???
911 is a number that needs to be called repeatedly & @ the first glimpse of anything looking wrong. Thank you so much for your letter Laura & be advised, please don't wait an hour or two or three to call the police.
Be it a gathering of thugs, dangerous drivers, or numerous, large crowds simply sitting or walking, Too Much, is just that. When you're sitting @ your window & the look/feeling isn't right, go w/your instinct & Call The Police. And Keep Calling The Police till they show up & do their job. Even then, if you observe the police response, see them speaking to folks & then leave w/o any further action/police presence - start the calls again.
CPD resources are spread too thin, particularly in the summer, so with the increase in Lakefront activities, we all have to encourage a corresponding increase in Police Protection.
If not, the creeps, bangers, thugs & drugs WILL spread a thick layer of havoc & chaos.
Not clear who polices this exact area -- the 21st says its the 3rd precinct and the 3rd says it is the 21st!!
Commander Richard Elmver 21st precinct Phone: 312-747-8340
Commander Christopher Fletcher, 3rd precinct 213 747 8201
You may want to address Hairston as Alderman Hairston or The Honorable Leslie Hairston.
Well, thank you for that advice, Winston. Unfortunately, the letter was mailed early this morning. Honestly, I am not a fan of Alderman Hairston, strongly backed her opponent, precisely because in our 4 years of efforts to enlist her to help with this situation, she has not been responsive, and has been dismissive of these safety concerns and the inconsistent police presence.
No fan here either. But, protocol is protocol. More importantly, thanks for writing the letter. If only more of us could convert our political dissastisfaction into action.
I can second that motion...I too have heard from dissatisfied residents that The Honorable Leslie Harriston wasn't a presence in her ward...I followed the Alderman's election for this ward and her opponent came out stronger on certain issues. South Shore needs a change, a strong leader and one who cares and listens to the pp.
Winston the only way to convert our political dissatisfaction is to VOTE....London
I've spoken with and thanked the many CPD officers who have been out in force the past few days in the area of 55th and south shore, the point and the beach. I also showed two of them the pattern of parked cars engaging in drug deals and prostitution, as well as the 'tags' on the light poles which seem to suggest women's names -- does it say which girl might be found in which car? My teenage son's friends think that's what the tags are saying. The police were surprised and took notice.
It's sad to see so much manpower during work/school days and on peaceful weeknights, and I hope it doesn't foster a sense that they are not needed after all.
Let's hope for a better weekend ahead. Thank you neighbors!
Laura,
Kudos to you. This is what it takes. Don't just get mad, get active.
Some years ago I formed a block club for the purpose of ridding our block of gang and drug activity. Like your, I spearheaded drafting letters. I vividly recall writing letters toLobb every elected official in the city, county and state that I saw associated with this problem. Each letter was signed by every resident of our block with their address below. I cc'd all of elected officials on each correspondence with the action taken and the ensuing results. Viola, a house was raided and taken over by the state. They had enough weapons in that house to go over to Afghanistan with.
Interestingly, an officer said something I will never forget regarding the gang activity, "You will never get rid of the problem, but you can push them into another neighborhood that will let them do their thing." You Laura are pushing back. I for one, applaud you.
In my opinion an organized consistent effort will beat voting alone all day long. On all medium and major issues there are lobbyists to provide that consistent sustained effort producing results regardless of who is power. Voting as a way to fix a problem can potentially actually undermines those involved. It can foster the mindset that someone other than you is more powerful and the master of your fate. That is something I just don't buy into.
Again, congratulations!
Amen, WInston! Thank you, and glad you were able to win that battle in your neighborhood safely!
Excellent idea Laura..I too organized and was Block Club President when I lived in the Bronzeville area..so I know about the drugs and prostitutions, loud music and ppl hanging around on the corners. We didn't go to the extent of writing each and every politician ( maybe we should have) but we were vigilant in making sure our Alderwoman ( Dorothy Tillman at the time hmmm) knew our concerns. Needless to say our concern went unmet...but as Bronzeville began to change so did the area...which brings me to my point...I believe that it is a collective effort on EVERYONES part to report crime, write letters (such as Laura and you Winston) to our law enforcer etc..I didn't mean to make it sound like crime fighting is "only" up to our Alderman's (elected Official) or even our Police but I do hold them accountable to a degree. If we didnt need these so-called official then why do we have them? They address all your concerns when running for office, you try to put some trust in what they are telling you and pic the one of the lesser evil and when they win...BAM! They forget the people who put them in office, that goes from the Aldermans right on up to the President and everything (everybody) in between...I will never stop voting...it is "my right" to do so..to many ppl have shedded blood & tears and gave their very lives so I and my children can vote...and maybe, just maybe we will elect someone worthy....London
London,
I feel you on this. I recall years ago reading a book on politics and the south. Maynard Jackson, the first African American mayor of Atlanta said, and I am paraphrasing here, "if voters really want to get things done, they should carry a card in their wallets that list the five things that they want politically. Anytime a politician speaks to them, they should take the card out of their wallet and ask the politician/candidates about those five issues and how specifically they will achieve them. If they cannot provide specific satisfactory answers they should disregard the politician/candidate from further consideration."
Our new mayor may be a good mayor, he may be a flop. But at no point was he ever pressed to answer how he would do anything. Imagine, you going for a job interview and because you have good interpersonal skills and your references that you provided vouched for you got you the job. You would think the firm that did the hiring crazy. Basically, that's what the vast majority of us do all the time when it comes to voting. We don't have a list, or anything specific that we want.
There are over 100 high schools in Chicago. Less than 12 have average ACT scores over 19. 19 is the magic number to survive in college. Yet, the person who put this system in place and maintained it won every single ward his last run for office. The former head went on to become the Secretary of Education. The public voted to keep this incompetent system in place - one vote at a time.
Laura,
I just wanted to introduce myself and strongly commend you for your courageous activism against street crime off the 55th street Point, 57th street beach.
I am a born and raised Hyde Park/Kenwood man - returning to live in the Parkshore. My family has lived in Hyde Park/Kenwood since the 1930s... we've had lots of experiencing dealing with urban crime issues.
I would greatly like to meet with you and share ideas, contacts on the summer crime issues.
Please come to the CAPS meeting next week:
June 8, Wednesday 6:30 pm . CAPS beat 2132 Community Alternative Policing meets at Treasure Island Lower Level
I went to high school with our alderwoman Leslie Hairston and I am working with her and her assistants on many neighborhood issues.
Thanks you again for your courageous efforts to protect our community.
Regards,
John Ellis
Parkshore
773 575 5273
I live in East View Park at 54th and South Shore Drive. I won't dance around the issue or be politically correct. There's way too much partying going on at the Lake around here at night. It goes on until very late night/early morning. I don't see the police very often. The west-siders have made our street a hang-out spot. It must be stopped.
Hi Chris
I've been back in East Hyde Park (55th) for 2 summers this time - seems like a fairly predictable problem. What has worked best in the past - ticketing and towing cars? Undercover police sweeps, stopping and frisking for guns, drugs, booze?
I've read that malls have been very effective playing classical music to drive away the young thug, criminal elements that just can't stand classical music.
I'm up for trying whatever works anywhere - our immediate Lake front area can not become THE hangout spot for the worst late teen thugs from outside our neighborhood.
Thtas a good idea..pipe in some classical music..classical music clears your thinking...I suspect some folks don't like clear thinking...they prefer the low bass frequencies that keep you clouded...lol. We have to do something.
Laura,
I tried to reply to a message from you, but was block by some spam filter.
Here's my reply:
Hi Laura,
The Caps meetings are once a month, I believe they are always the 2nd Wednesday of the month.
http://www.hydepark.org/hpkccnews/commmtgscal.htm
I've been to 3 meetings and they were not well attended.
I also suggest you try to get to know some folks in Leslie Hairston's office - Sue Purington handles police issues.
FYI - the 5th ward is not all Hyde Park and contains a sizable South Shore voter base. So any effort to wall off the Hyde Park Lakefront from South Shore residents or just poor African Americans from other parts of the city is going to be strongly resisted.
But most good people in our ward, in our adjacent communities are strongly against 22 year old African American college grads getting murdered on the Lake Front by gang bangers.
Thanks again Laura for your courageous activism - I would enjoy meeting you sometime - I am just one building away (I think) I'm in the Parkshore.
Regards,
John Ellis
Chris, I totally agree with you in regards to the "way too much partying" comment. I live near you, around the corner at 56th and Everett and used to love to go for my lake walks after work, but since Monday, I confess, I try to get out early now, on the theory "trouble sleeps in." I've noticed for about the last 3 summers it's been all down hill in the Summer in East Hyde Park, since we had a shooting in front of our building in 2009 (again, late partying on the lakefront on a Sunday night AFTER 11:00pm) I love Hyde Park. so much to the extent that I've put down roots and become a home owner here, like many of you. All residents (be they owners or renters) are not making an effort to "wall off" ourselves from the outside world because we think we're better than anyone else. Whats wrong with working hard and wanting to live in a nice neighborhood. I'll be blunt; the "trash" I saw Monday night at the Point were NOT good, hardworking people, but, like you said, a bunch of trashy thugs who have no respect whatsoever for our neighborhoods. What really bothered me the most was that I saw almost NO police that night or any weekend night for that matter. I find that because our building is near the park and the beach, I'm having to call the police to get the thugs out at least one weekend night a week. I plan on attending the CAPS meeting this week, but confess, like most working people, find it difficult to make it due to it's early hour (seriously, 6:30pm? everyone is not a retiree or can work from home). And, btw, LOVE the classical music idea. Anything to drown out the scratchy booming bass music and motorcycles that I have to endure every warm weather night; can't even sleep with my windows open. Pathetically, we've all come to dread Summer now.
Mr. Ellis and Chris,
The beach is a "public" beach for your private enjoyment. It is open to all residents of the public, from within the city and outside the city. Granted, a certain level of decorum should be expected and the police should enforce the law. However I don't think it is productive to go around complaining about "west siders" and "low income African Americans". The vast majority of all the visitors are enjoying themselves without incident.
When I am on the local golf course and see beer bottles all over the place as I did this and most morning, I don't hear my anyone saying we have to stop these "northsiders" from running amuck and ruining our course. That mindset does not build communties but division. Focus on enforcing the laws - on everyone.
Chris and Ellis,
I too have grown up in the Hyde Park area went to Shoesmith Louis Worth and Kenwood,,,used to hang out at the Point, Beach Lake Front and "all " over Hyde Park in the 20 plus years that I lived there...,but what I'm reading/hearing I can only PRAY that the "race card" isn't being used in an under tone that you think people are oblivious too! I honestly don't want to go there! Chris if you look around Hyde Park you too will see thugs that live and breath right there its not just coming from other areas..I hear you...its a problem no matter whose out there (i.e. black white red brown southside westside notheside eastside) ITS A PROBLEM...I GET IT...EVERYONE HERE LOVES EVERYTHING THE LAKE HAS TO OFFER..the people are so friendly...instead of pointing out colors lets try to come together and start working towards a solution and it start with the residents...London
Thank you all for all of your comments and advice. I can't go to this month's CAPS mtg but will be going to the next. I know we all get upset about what is happening at the Beach and the Lake and we all want safety first. I feel sad when I see race come into play - it's not race. There are hundreds of innocent people of all ages and color who come to enjoy these public spaces, and that is great. It's the small fraction of 15-25 year old's who create the dangerous situations - and yes, race/poverty/lack of resources might create the conditions that would cause kids to join gangs, but if we were in england, the trouble-makers would be poor white kids. It's not race, it's the fact that some of the partying teens are interacting with those selling drugs, prostituting, and bringing weapons and agendas to the beach -- maybe some of it does come down to west side versus south side kids, but the main point is that it does get out of control at times and we don't want this. I feel sad when my wealthy white neighbors start to blame Bar Louie for the problems at the Beach -- are you kidding, i say??!! The middle-class middle-aged patrons enjoying Bar Louie are just as likely to be crime victims as are local residents. We don't want a police state, but if they maintain a consistent presence, those who are up to no good will either be less likely to stay at the beach, or they will keep a lid on their nefarious activity. I hail from NYC and have been here since 2004, and although I did not like or vote for Guiliani, his work with the police changed the city and brought peace to all neighborhoods there - partly possible because the borders are finite. Chicago is not NYC and has unique challenges - not the least of which is the ability for people to flee and spread to the north and west, but I still hope that the south side can receive much needed attention if we keep vocal about these concerns.
London
"Concerned Southshore Neighborhood Resident"
John Ellis replies:
I understand your concerns - and they are very valid concerns. I commend you on your loyalty to our neighborhood - especially your enrollment in our public schools - Shoesmith Louis Worth and Kenwood.
I think I am a bit older than you - I played little league baseball right next to Shoesmith school. This park has been called Kenwood Park for many years, but in my day it was remember as "Farmer's Field" named after some farmer who actually owned this land way back, past my father's time.
This neighborhood has been very good to me and my family and I have so many positive experiences with my Black African American neighbors here.
My last year in little league baseball I was the only White player in the entire league, not just on my team but in the entire league and my team mates and everyone in the league treated me great. I once had a bad experience walking to a practice in the alley behind Madison Park, 50th street - some punks jumped me and scared me and the next day my entire team game to escort me on my 2 !/2 block walk to Kenwood Park/Farmers Field.
We've always had crime "issues" here and in my lifetime most/all of the crime issues have been from Black African American thugs, criminals. In my father's day this was not the case. Hyde Park was surrounded by tough White ethnic communities and my father and aunt had to contend with the likes of Dick Butkus, mostly working class Irish toughs coming in to the neighborhood to cause trouble. That's life.
London - I don't think anyone posting here is an evil, hateful, RACIST person - just local folks concerned about real issues of crime.
Most of us are extremely upset that Aeyanuna Rogers, a 22 year old Northern Illinois University graduate, who was shot and killed on the pathway between the Point and the 57th street Beach at 11pm 5/30/2011.
This young woman (Black African American) had her whole life in front of her, and she was brutally killed by some idiot thug/punks. This terrible crime could have been prevented if we - the decent folks in our community and the Chicago Police, U of C police had our act together, but we didn't.
Those of us in the know - KNEW with 100% confidence that the first warm/hot day of Summer - Memorial Day after 3 moths of rough, wet and cold weather would bring out the worst criminal elements to the S.S. LakeFront - we should have been prepared, but we weren't and now a very bright, Northern University graduate Aeyanuna Rogers has been killed - and too many local folks are throwing up their hands and conceding that our Lakefront parks will be taken over by thugs, gang bangers for the whole summer.
I am here to join with the other good folks posting here that I REFUSE to give up our Lakefront/our community to thugs, gang bangers. We're not going to become evil, hateful RACIST people just for protecting our community.
I welcome regular, working class and poor folks from South Shore and other areas of Chicago to come to our community and to enjoy our great parks - you don't have to be an upper class member of the British royal family or some PHD student in Renaissance music to be given access to our Lakefront Parks. But criminals, low life thugs, punks, low life prostitutes, hard drug dealers - and the wanna be gang bangers that killed Aeyanuna Rogers, these folks need to be identified and stopped.
Many of us are honest "liberals" - but we aren't cowards or pussies. And this is OUR NEIGHBORHOOD, so we will do what needs to be done.
OK, so let's start networking, attending CAPs meetings, writing letters and forming neighborhood, block patrols.
We will do what is necessary to protect our community.
From: <caparks@thepublicityworks.net>
Date: June 4, 2011 1:20:30 AM CDT
Cc: "Kimberly Webb" <kimberly.webb@cityofchicago.org>
Subject: Police Roll Call June 6
Ms. Hussein:
Ald. Leslie Hairston thought you might be interested in the following information about a police roll call on Monday, June 6. Please feel free to send it to others.
Thank you,
Carole A. Parks
The Publicity Works
3533 S. King Dr. - 2S
Chicago IL 60653
773-373-3860; F: -3868
Concerned Constituents of
The 5th Ward
Join
Ald. Leslie Hairston
and the
Chicago Police Department
Outdoor Roll Call of the
003rd and 0021st Districts
6:00 p.m.
Monday, June 6, 2011
57thStreet and Lake Shore Drive
(Promontory Point)
· Show your support
· Voice your concerns
· Meet your Beat Officers
Get involved in our efforts for a safe summer!
Thanks for the notice Laura - I will be there and hope to meet some of you good folks there tonight.
I am so saddened by the events of late. I cannot add to anything more to this posts other than perhaps we should 1) get to know each other and form a neighborhood coalition. 2) Establish a phone tree. 3) Remind Leslie Hairston who she works for and 5) Get a petition started for permit parking from 6p.m. to 9 a.m. daily. Perhaps someone can start collecting information I will be happy to meet with all concerned Hyde Parkers and get things moving. Hopefully I can meet some of you this evening at the roll call. My name is Karen.
They have been out in force since the shooting every day, and closed the park with at least 14 vehicles thursday at 11pm, and with about 20 to close it Friday at 11pm. We have to stay vocal, but they don't want this either.
Hi Karen, thanks for posting here. I hope to see you tonight at 6 PM 57th street Lakefront entrance or Wednesday 6:30 Treasure Island CAPs Beat 2132.
We have lots of good neighbors, good CPD, U of C Police, we're going to get a handle on these problems.
It's not good enough. As soon as the police leave, the folks come back at 2, 3 am..the police spend most of their time writing parking tickets for small stuff on the residents who pay thousands of dollars in taxes to live by the Lake. I mean it. I have a parking lot at East View Park, but when it's full, I must try to park along the lake. I get ticketed for nonsense while the west siders take up all the available parking spots.
If anyone is able to attend the meeting tonight, please be sure to post a recap afterward.
You're also welcome to continue any discussions that take place at the meeting here on EveryBlock. We're here to help you connect with your neighbors.
Thanks John for your response..Im going to try and meet with you guys tonight..don't get off until 8. But if not please let me know how I can help an any other way..London
Hi, I was there at roll call & sorry... I didn't meet any of you who have posted here. The roll call was a nice symbolic gesture. Leslie Hairston was there. It was very noisy so I couldn't hear all that was said but it was a nice showing of officers and supervisors.
I heard Alderman Hairston say that she is opposed to permit/zoned parking because it kills the 'commuters', well so does guns, but that's another story. Hopefully, I can meet you at the next caps meeting and have a better chance on being able to hear the Alderman better. I will have to admit though she's very concerned and she was effective in getting the police to pay attention. I'm on her side but we have to do better as community.
Thanks for the update iKare. I couldn't make the roll call but will be at the CAPS meeting this week. Honestly, everyone in my building and most of my friends in East Hyde Park are pretty frustrated by Leslie's perceived lack of concern to what's going on over here. We've all called/complained consistently for the last three years (since we had a shooting in front of our building 1700 East). I'm trying to be optimistic but she just comes across as being "reactive", only "responding" when things happen or get in the news. Really I think she got tired of people "blowing up her phone" since last week; she thinks this token gesture will satisfy us. And I point blank asked when I called last Tuesday (I spoke with Sue) WHY she is so against permit parking? We're only talking from 56th to 53rd, from Hyde Park Blvd to the lake. Sue didn't have a concrete answer. Personally, I think she has some sort of vested interest in keeping the management of RDG Group (they own Bar Louie) happy; just my thought. Okay, so the police were out tonight. Where were they at 2:00am on Saturday when I called them to get the 10 or so thug teenagers that were hanging out in the park on 56th? Of course, after CPD never showed, 20 minutes later I called the U of C police and they instantly came and got those thugs out. We need consistent patrols into the wee hours of the morning, not just when the parks/beaches close.
Well, I was there, and was surprised that we did have a decent turn out given such short notice. The nice thing is that Commander Fletcher of the 3rd district in particular took the time to thank me for my concern, and both he and the Alderman noted that both the 3rd and 21st have been allocated 30% more manpower as of last Thursday. Looking at the individual officers, one can see how seriously they take all of this and how this is not just grandstanding on their part. Let's all keep vocal and make each other aware, and don't hesitate to phone the police when things are not being monitored. I am glad we all care so much. One thing of note, is that the Alderman said the teens who are often carrying the weapons and up to trouble often decide where to meet and post last minute on Facebook -- so the undercover units are trying to work through the social networking site Facebook. Incredible.
I don't know how to post photos here, but I took a few cell photos and made this public if anyone would like to see.
https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.10150208969724656.332642.829149655&l=7ddfa7ce65
You're absolutely right Laura. Myself and some buddies were discussing yesterday how the whole "social media craze is working to the advantage of these thugs. If you recall, Water Tower Place has been plagued with mobs of teens who all tweet to each other and invade various stores, robbing them. I work downtown and I've been noticing, particularly around Michigan Avenue this summer there are HUGE crowds of teens, more than usual, invading the downtown area. It's like an armed fortress in Water Tower Place now. And, as recently as this weekend, a person was attacked in broad daylight in Streeterville for his iphone and ipad by a mob of 10 or more teens.
You're absolutely right Laura. Myself and some buddies were discussing yesterday how the whole "social media craze is working to the advantage of these thugs. If you recall, Water Tower Place has been plagued with mobs of teens who all tweet to each other and invade various stores, robbing them. I work downtown and I've been noticing, particularly around Michigan Avenue this summer there are HUGE crowds of teens, more than usual, invading the downtown area. It's like an armed fortress in Water Tower Place now. And, as recently as this weekend, a person was attacked in broad daylight in Streeterville for his iphone and ipad by a mob of 10 or more teens.
Youth unemployment might be the highest ever, and that deficit, combined with the social networking connections - crazy!
Dear friends and neighbors and Alderman Hairston,
The 3rd and 21st districts did a roll call last evening at 57th beach and promontory point. The ALderman Hairston noted they've received more manpower to both districts as of last thursday.
It was an impressive force of officers dedicated to keeping a web of safety, but they feel stretched, this is clear. I hope for more CPD hires to keep things calm.
https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.10150208969724656.332642.829149655&l=7ddfa7ce65
these are some photos I took ^
Note we should call
911 (not 311) to report incidents and potential problem spots.
Contact the 21st Dist. police directly at 312-747-3365 or the 3rd Dist. at 312-747-5530. Get the name and position of whoever answers the phone and report unacceptable responses to my office at 773-324-5555.
The next CAPS meeting is this Wednesday, 6/8 in the basement of Treasure Island at 6:30p.
----------------------------------------------------
Here is a link to the letter I wrote last week, widely distributed. http://chicago.everyblock.com/announcements/jun01-homicide-and-other-shooting-5-30-11-57th-3991246/#comment-12076
This is a public letter from our Honorable Alderman Hairston, Addressing the letter I wrote last week - my internet name is 'Laura Hussein' for privacy.
http://chicago.everyblock.com/announcements/jun03-improving-security-5th-ward-beaches-4000018/
In response to Laura Hussein, I saw for myself the overcrowding where Aeyanuna Rogers was shot. I called the police commander to clear the area and arrest those breaking any laws. Even though I have asked the police to notify me of violent incidents, I had to hear about this young woman’s death on the news. I was more than saddened. I was incensed. Most of these tragedies are preventable.There are rules and regulations governing our parks and beaches – curfews, occupancy limits, prohibited activity. The degree to which they are enforced communicates what behavior is acceptable and which can be gotten away with. The most effective response to most complaints on the South Side is police giving the same prompt, appropriate and reliable attention they do on the North Side. Once they handle a problem, they should return to monitor new waves of people.The police superintendent and commanders have assured me these measures would be implemented immediately. I will continue to do all I can as alderman. What can the community do? Get involved. As of today, June 3, the police tell me not one person has come forward to help identify Aeyanuna’s killers. Beyond writing to me and other officials, we need you to be heard in other ways.
911 (not 311) to report incidents and potential problem spots.
Contact the 21st Dist. police directly at 312-747-3365 or the 3rd Dist. at 312-747-5530. Get the name and position of whoever answers the phone and report unacceptable responses to my office at 773-324-5555.
You can also call that number for details about my monthly ward and CAPS meetings where you can voice your concerns. If we all keep up the pressure, perhaps we will not have to mourn yet another senseless loss of life.
Leslie Hairston, 5th Ward Alderman
Thanks Laura and everyone else who came out and publicized this community/police meeting, show of force. I enjoyed meeting a few of my neighbors and exchanging ideas with police officers. It was an impressive show of force as our police officers are young, fit, street savvy.
iKare - sorry we didn't meet. I was the tall guy in a lavender polo shirt, dark sun-glasses, shaved head and a go-tee beard... maybe I looked like one of the bad guys or a fake professional wrestler.
:-)
The consensus I came away from last night is that we need to have large numbers of regular, good neighbors use the park, encourage organized activities - as the thug, criminal element like to take over whole areas to themselves.
Let's all try to come up with some group activities that young thugs/punks would absolutely HATE - things like opera appreciation night or bible study sessions - that sort of thing. Some police officers were receptive to my idea about playing classical music - something that most young thugs don't like to hear and don't like to be around.
Thanks again everyone - I hope to see folks at the CAPs meeting Wed. June 8th 6:30 PM in the basement of Treasure Island.
Open sing-alongs on the beach!! Love it!!
I just got off the phone with Carole Parks from The Publicity Works. She noted the Alderman was not initially even informed of the shootings. She also mentioned that the temporary closing of the lake front from the 20's down to 47th street have created additional pressure on our community beach to absorb beach-goers. We'll have to keep alert and focused this summer to keep our area safe for everyone. Thanks everyone!
Laura,
My name is Alexandra Schwappach and I a reporter with the Medill News Service. I am currently working on a story about beach security in Chicago and would love to speak with you briefly about your concerns with this issue.
Please email me at amschwappach@gmail.com or call me at 312-503-3773 sometime before Thursday if possible. I would love to hear your thoughts.
Thank you very much!
Best,
Alexandra Schwappach
Maybe we can meet at the next caps meeting. Here is a video of the roll call yesterday. It was so noisy, I just eliminated the sound and added music.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Jv-gd6ArsbM
I am sorry I missed everyone but hopefully I will meet you @ the CAPS meeting on Wednesday. I did get a chance to video the roll call although it was too noisey to record.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Jv-gd6ArsbM&feature=youtube_gdata_player
I can't be at CAPS bc I work wed nights, but please speak out!
Here's an interesting presentation of Chicago's history of flash mob violence, violence on the Lakefront beaches:
http://www.chicagomag.com/Chicago-Magazine/The-312/June-2011/Flash-Mobs-and-Chicago-Beach-Violence/
Readers should note that Chicago has a rich history of White thugs, White mobs behaving badly in the past.
I was at Wednesday Night's CAPs meeting at Treasure Island - well attended, but it seemed to be mostly older Hyde Park homeowners who want the whole neighborhood shut down at night, want to build a wall around Hyde Park to prevent anyone from outside the neighborhood from walking, driving, or parking on our streets - don't think that's the way to go.
I am impressed with 3rd district police commander Fletcher. He's young, street smart and personable. 3rd district starts at 56th street on the Lake, covers South Shore.
I get the feeling that Chicago Police Department and South Shore political/community leaders aren't working well with the University of Chicago police or University of Chicago anything. So maybe folks here should start networking with University of Chicago police, U of C officials separately.
So far the police have no suspects and no leads in the killing of Aeyanuna Rogers. I think we should raise funds for a reward for information.
Was anyone else there at the CAPs meeting?
Hi John, I along with a few friends were at the meeting as well (we were the younger ladies, sitting near the back with the 1700 residents). Unfortunately, I don't agree with your take on the meeting. I don't agree with your assumption with "older Hyde Parkers wanting to wall themselves off from the world." Quite frankly, my heart goes out to the majority of those residents. Like myself, we all settled in Hyde Park (btw, everyone at the meeting was NOT old) and we truly love it and have all put down roots here. It pisses me (and most of my neighbors) off, quite frankly when we're all portrayed as a bunch of self entitled folks wanting to "wall ourselves off from the world. I'm tired of that assumption and quite frankly and have begun to dread warm Summer nights because I know I have to be bothered with noisy, violent, unruly teenagers who clearly have no respect for our neighborhood or for anyone in Chicago for that matter. I know that it's the assumption that everyone who lives here is a snob born with a silver spoon in their mouth; quite the opposite with me. I was raise in a working class home, worked my way through college and worked hard to purchase my home that I love. My parents taught us to work hard and to respect our elders and to take care of and honor our home/neighborhood. Clearly, these young thugs do not. Most of the people here are TIRED and we've had it. For the last few Summers things have gotten progressively worse in the area. Is it wrong to just want peace of mind and not to have to worry about being harrased, robbed or shot every time we all venture to the lake or surrounding areas? Quite honestly, quite a few of my neighbors are wondering WHY Alderman Hairston opposition to zoned parking (from 53rd to 56th, to the lake shore to Hyde Park Blvd, from 7:00pm until 7:00am). We're just as congested as the South Loop or Lincoln Park now (btw, THEY have it) Her excuse that "it inconveniences the commuters is bull; most folks who commute are generally out of here by 7:00pm, so, try again with that one. Whatever, that's her take on it, but she's sending a clear message that she thinks East Hyde park is low priority for her. Also, there were several comments about how she's "reactive" and not "proactive" in these cases. Again, we've ALL complained about the violence on the lake, dating back to a few years ago when I witnessed two people being shot right in front of the 1700 building. Quite frankly, the CPD are overworked and overwhelmed. They are trying but unfortunately the area that they have to patrol (with very little man power) is from 31st to 63rd. I had a chance to speak with the young beat officers after the meeting. They're great, I see them in the evenings when I'm on the lake; they're young and dedicated, but VERY few in numbers. Also, they've had to do away with the beach patrols that they had in the past, due to budget constraints. Honestly, I don't get much response from CPD when I call 911 (not because they don't care, but simply put, they respond to the most serious crimes first because they're stretched thin). I give it 10 minutes and then call U of C police (who come quickly and in abundance). I did however like the "zero tolerance stance" (which, they should have started doing 2 years ago). I think that will definitely help. When these punks understand that the police just won't "shoo them away" and will instead start arresting them, throwing them in paddy wagons and impounding their cars when they find drugs, that will make the message loud and clear that this type of behavior will not be tolerated here in Hyde Park (or anywhere else in Chicago for that matter). In conclusion, we should all concentrate on contacting the new police commander to lobby for more manpower on the South Shore. I noticed, they've already caught most of the punks committing those awful crimes in Streeterville. I think because it's a tourist area and they want to send the message to tourist that it's business as usual here.
I am sorry I missed the meeting but I see it was well respresented. Lisa I agree with you about the neighborhood and the parking permit. Bullets inconvenience commuters and residents alike. I overheard Leslie Hairston telling some supporters that if she agreed to permits, no one will come visit us? Well now really? My sis has permit parking and she gives us guest passes when we visit. Leslie stated that she couldn't do it for one area, it would have to be everywhere... I find that hard to believe because one block south of my sister, there is no permit parking. I don't know what to believe, but it would be an uphill battle if we wanted to pursue the permit parking.
Thanks for clarifying John's post.
Hi iKare, not a problem! And yes, you are most definitely correct (re: obtaining guest passes if you have permit parking). I was speaking to a really good friend of mine who lives in Printers Row; he too told me that they also have guest passes for visiting friends/relatives. Again, the excuses that Leslie Hairston is giving in regards to not wanting zoned parking are weak. I don't know why she's opposed to it. It makes one wonder......
Lisadee,
I apologize for saying everyone at the meeting was old and of course your concerns about real dangerous crime, Summer nights of crime and chaos are 100% legitimate.
To a certain extent, OK to a large extent our neighborhood and the University of Chicago do try to keep out the problems, trouble makers or just crowds and congestion of large numbers of people coming from the poorer neighborhoods that border Hyde Park.
I think our goal needs to be to dramatically improve crime, noise and chaos on hot Summer nights.
Other ideas about making Hyde Park a large "gated community" where only residents have the right to park on the streets - that just isn't going to work given political and racial realities.
Have folks here considered giving up on the idea of owning a private car and expecting lots of open, free, safe parking on the streets?
I gave up my car and now rent the Zip Car - this system works great. One big reason that say Millennium Park downtown hasn't become a hangout for prostitution, drug use and generally thug behavior is that the area doesn't have lots/any free parking for anyone, locals or visitors.
I think that is the best solution to make the Hyde Park Lakefront "green" - we encourage locals and visitors to use our parks in a respectful "green" manner, walk, bicycle, use public transportation - thus we don't get invaded by thousands of cars with disruptive criminals, thugs looking to trash our parks/community.
We need paid parking for non-residents on the Lake, increased police bike patrols, strict enforcement of curfews and park hours, police need to return after they kick people out of the park and kick them out again, many just return, a subtle educational signage campaign on the lakefront instructing west-siders that the lake is to be enjoyed, not trashed...i was swimming at 63rd beach the other day amidst White Castle cups and condoms in the water.
Very Sorry Chris that your swim on 63rd included White Castle cups and Condoms - well at least some "West Siders" are practicing safe sex.
I note that upper middle class environmentalist types are responding to the lower class misuse of Lake Michigan beaches by cutting down on beach space and putting in "prairie/dune restoration" areas that are fenced off from "the public". I though I noticed one such are on the northern end of the 63rd street beach.
Chris you might want to consider switching from swimming to fishing off the 63rd street pier. The views are great and there are few people, haven't seen prostitutes or drug users there.
Hi John and Chris. John, I think you're missing Chris' point. This is not an "upper class vs. lower class issue." I've been a patron of both the 57th and 63rd street beaches, since I was a teen in suburbia LONG before I became a Hyde Park resident. The thing that attracted me to Hyde Park so much that I put down roots here was that it unlike what I experienced in suburbia, you have a "melting pot" here; all people (regarding race or social economic backgrounds) living/coexisting together and have a love for the neighborhood. The "trash" (and yes, I'll call them that; and it has nothing to do with race or class) that has been making life unbearable for good folk (resident or non resident) who love to use our beach/lakefronts) needs to go. Oh, and the "prairie/dune restoration" project that your referring to is quite lovely in my opinion. Having participated a few times in the "Friends of the Park" volunteer beach cleaning project at the beginning of the season, that project has enhanced the area. Very few folks tended to picnic in that area, preferring to use the general beach area or the grass area (which, they now prohibit grilling on, due to the fact people failed to dispose of hot charcoal properly). Oh, and Chris, I have to correct you on the West Sider thing; TRUST me; it's not just them. quite a few of our other city (including South) and suburban residents (including the south and western burbs) are coming in to contribute to the drama as well. Case in point; a buddy of mine commented how one of her "black sheep" younger thug cousins from the south burbs now LOVES to hang out at both 57th street beach and Bar Louie.
Lisadee - can you follow up and get the name and some contact info on that "younger thug cousin from the south burbs who now LOVES to hang out at both 57th street beach and Bar Louie."?
We need to start getting some useful personal intelligence about the thug culture that has adopted/taken over our Lakefront on hot summer nights. Maybe this young thug cousin has heard something about who killed Aeyanuna Rogers.
Sure, I'll certainly ask her about the name (doubtful if I can get contact information); but, knowing the mentality of these thugs (remember, they all subscribe to the idiotic "don't snitch" code, popular among thug life; and which is no doubt hindering the investigation) I doubt if it will do any good. But, won't hurt to ask. Just don't hold your breathe.
Lisadee - consider spreading some money around in this sub culture. It's not considered "snitching" when folks just do some business and money is exchanged.
lisadee writes:
" I think you're missing Chris' point. This is not an "upper class vs. lower class issue." I've been a patron of both the 57th and 63rd street beaches, since I was a teen in suburbia LONG before I became a Hyde Park resident. The thing that attracted me to Hyde Park so much that I put down roots here was that it unlike what I experienced in suburbia, you have a "melting pot" here; all people (regarding race or social economic backgrounds) living/coexisting together and have a love for the neighborhood. "
JE replies:
I would say "Yes and No". Yes, Hyde Park is blessed to have so many different kinds of people living here, working together, co-existing together and loving our neighborhood.
At the same time, it is often noted that:
"Hyde Park is a place where Blacks and Whites get together to keep out the (Black) poor."
The University of Chicago has waged a rather concerted effort since ~ 1957 to keep the Black ghetto out of Hyde Park and to acquire property, take down businesses on 53rd street and close drinking establishments that "cater to the wrong type of people".
Bar Louie is now in the cross hairs of this U of C "powers that be".
:-)
Sorry for that neighborhood history lesson.
My point is that good folks here should understand local class/racial realities and focus on specific crime places/people to improve the situation.
All should understand that any effort by Hyde Park residents to put a wall around Hyde Park to keep out (Black) poor and working class residents from coming in to the neighborhood to shop, use the parks will be strongly resented/resisted by the communities that border Hyde Park.
If I was some poorer Black African American living in a rougher part of South Shore and upper middle class Hyde Park residents were tearing out all the public basketball courts on the Lake Front/South Side and putting in dune/prairie restoration projects on the beaches, pushing for "locals only" resident parking permits for Hyde Park/Kenwood - I would be justifiably insulted and might consider coming in to the HP to cause noise and trouble and get back at the rich folks.
Everybody has the right to hang out at the beach and the Point- I agree- As long as they do not harrass, harm, kill others-
These past few summers do take me down memory lane, to the late'70's and the'80's, when Hyde Park was more criminally active especially the lakefront-
However, there is no reason why anyone going to the beach and/or the Point ( btw there have always been garbage and condoms there I called 57th st beach "Condom Cove") should be allowed to trash it up with actual garbage or dangerous behavior like harming/killing people .
Any beach, Park or public space should be safe- no matter what area it's in- rich, poor, middle class folks should be safe and be safe from angry bored people of all economic and ethnic backgrounds - *sses come in all shapes sizes colors gender backgrounds etc that's what Lisadee is saying
I think
That's what many of us are saying
Well, these last weekend nights seemed very quiet and calm.
Maybe we should thank Mighty Thor - God of Thunder and storms for bringing the cool, damp weather and wild Thunderstorms.
Our problems seem to be almost exclusively on hot, hot Summer weekend nights. So folks should think/act in ways to help the situation.
Does anyone want to meet with University of Chicago police officers? I have some contacts?
Also does anyone want to start a neighborhood "observe" and report (not engage) civilian patrol? This would entail documenting what you see/hear at specific times and places and turning in a formal report, not just calling 911 and letting it go.
Thanks everyone especially Mrs. Hussein. It was nice to see some relative of SADDAM HUSSEIN out on our local Lakefront and she turned out not to be a terrifying terrorist.
:-)
Take care everyone - I think I might follow Mrs. Hussein's example and use a Nom de plume here as the killers of Aeyanuna Rogers are still at large and I plan to be working on finding and helping to bust them.
Thanks John!
I hope everyone had a good Father's Day. Mine was very nice, spent lots of time in our Jackson Park.
Unfortunately there was bad crime in parks just South and West of Hyde Park - police had to respond with deadly force to a trouble maker shooting an Uzi machine gun!
Here's the Trib account:
www.chicagotribune.com/news/local/breaking/chibrknews-fathers-20110619,0,6028311.story
chicagotribune.com
Father's Day celebration leads to shooting at park
By Carlos Sadovi, Jeremy Gorner and Dawn Rhodes
Tribune reporters
10:07 PM CDT, June 19, 2011
A gun-wielding man was critically injured this evening by police after he began shooting at a Father's Day celebration at a South Side park and then attempted to shoot the officers, officials said.
The incident occurred at Grand Crossing Park on the 7600 block of South Ingleside Avenue at about 6:30 p.m., officials said. The incident also left three police officers with minor injuries.
About 1,000 people were attending picnics at Grand Crossing Park, near East 77th Street and South Ingleside Avenue, when someone fired gunshots into the air, authorities said.
Officials said a man who was part of the celebrations fired a gun several times in the air.
At the time of that shooting, two police officers were driving near the incident when someone approached them and told them that someone was shooting a gun in the park this evening, according to police and Camden.
Police were at the park because there had been a large shooting at the park several years ago during Father's Day, said Patrick Camden, a spokesman for the Chicago Fraternal Order of Police.
The officers were near the entrance of the park near 76th Street and Ingleside this evening as a swarm of people quickly escaped the park, officials said.
The officers then saw a man wearing a white T-shirt and holding a 9mm semi-automatic handgun with an extended clip, Camden said.
After the officers told the man to drop the gun he instead fired at the police who responded by shooting back and the man and critically injuring him, officials said. Police believe he was possibly the same individual who fired shots into the air.
Three officers sustained minor injuries but were not shot, officials said.
Christopher Raymond was with three other adults and two children and were just getting to the park when they saw the crowd charging toward them in fear.
Raymond then saw the man with an Uzi-style gun, he said. He said he saw the police order the man, who was about 20 feet away from Raymond's group, to drop the gun when he opened fire at the officers. The man refused and Raymond said he saw the man respond by firing at the officers.
"He fired first because he saw the police coming into the park," said Raymond. "He didn't care who he shot, there were children all over the place."
Raymond who was with three other adults and their daughters, 13, and 9, and the others in the group credited police for saving their lives. He said the officers acted properly and saved many from being shot by the man.
"If they didn't shoot him when they shot him, his bullets would have hit us," said Raymond.
The wounded man was taken in critical condition to Stroger Hospital for treatment, said Chicago Fire Deparment Chief Joseph Roccasalva. The officers were taken to Little Company of Mary Hospital in good-to-fair condition, Roccasalva said.
Members of the Independent Police Review Authority were investigating. A gun was recovered at the scene, police said.
Marion Jeffrey, of Hazel Crest, said that he was with his family in the park near East 77th Street and South Ingleside Avenue when his brother-in-law said he heard firecrackers.
"I said, 'No, those are not firecrackers, those are gunshots. Everybody get down,'" Jeffrey said.
He said he then looked up to see a man with a gun in his hand, squad cars swarming the area, then heard at least a dozen more gunshots.
Jeffrey added that he hesitated to attend Sunday's celebration in the neighborhood where he grew up, and had not planned to stay long.
"It just takes one nut to start a situation like this," he said.
As of 9:00 p.m., police were still at the park processing the scene.
People who were in the park were waiting for police to allow them to collect their gatherings. Food that people dropped on their way out of the park lay smashed in the grass near the scene.
And sadly, this is all too common, and the police are challenged to monitor all of the hot spots at once. :(
UPDATE: In response to my letter, the University Police Chief stated that the area that they police to the east ends at 55th street and does NOT cover the park, Lakeshore Drive, Promontory Point, nor the Beach. They also stated that while they still patrol 55th street, with the closing of the SHoreland Dormitory in June 2010, their priorities for policing are Drexel and south of the Midway by their NEW dormitory.
Thanks Laura for that update. This confirms my own inquiries. The U of C police have scaled back their patrols in our East Hyde Park area. Also, the U of C police used to be staffed by off duty Chicago police and worked closer in the past with the CPD.
But, the U of C police will still respond to a specific complaint by Hyde Park residents and it helps to have a U of C connection.
Here are two U of C police contacts I received as most helpful:
Lt Dows
Sgt Eric Grays
773 702 8181
I spoke with one and he was very helpful.
The Tribune ran two stories today about crime and economic decline/collapses in Englewood which borders Hyde Park on the West. These stories confirm my own impression that the neighborhoods to our West and South (North seems to be much better) have gotten much more dangerous in the last few years.
http://www.chicagotribune.com/news/local/ct-met-englewood-20110623,0,1319894.story
We need to be aware of conditions in near by neighborhoods and work to see that these crime problems do not spill over in to Hyde Park. It's also time to discuss the University of Chicago working with the City to acquire, tear down abandoned properties in Englewood and South of the Midway. This was once called "urban renewal". I would call it something like - closing crack houses.
Hi John, I had an opportunity to read the story in the Tribune you sent along, MOST interesting; thanks for sharing. To further elaborate on this topic, was watching WGN News tonight and they had a REALLY interesting segment on tonight about how the CHA has relocated more residents to South Shore than any other neighborhood in Chicago. I've included the link below to the story on WGN's site. Great to see the neighborhood activist in South Shore are DEFINITELY on top of this:
CHA's plan taking toll on neighborhood
Residents in voucher program relocated more to the South Shore than any other Chicago neighborhood
http://www.wgntv.com/wgntv-cover-story-cha-housing-june27,0,3831176.story
Hi everyone.
I was up in Wisconsin for a week, got back Tues - how were things in our neighborhood - on our the Lakefront? The weekends before seemed to be under control. I saw a strong police presence at the 55th street under pass entrance to the Lakefront on a Friday at ~ Midnight, with CPD cars closing down the parking lot crowd. Didn't see any troublesome crowds outside Bar Loui
It seems the main trouble spot in Chicago on hot weekend nights is Boys Town on the North Side - large groups of teens go up there for entertainment, causing trouble, beating each other, bystanders.
I believe I saw you yesterday, John, walking around the Point as I walked with my young daughter, around 6p? But I wasn't sure...
Anyway, i am glad to say it was crowded down here, and Saturday saw a very large party of people in their 20's AND a wedding at the Point. WHile people left too much trash laying about, it was calm and peaceful, with primarily families enjoying the weather. Police were present, but not in a showy way, not overbearing. I hear North Beach and Montrose seemed to attract the restless teens on this 4th, and there were more minor skirmishes up there, not to mention the 6 dead, 28 wounded, in addition to the Boystown flash mob beating. We had a good one, but as a city, the trouble is everywhere. Six dead, 28 wounded in holiday weekend violence - Chicago Sun-Times: http://bit.ly/mZXLXL
From what I read in the online trib and Sun-Times, the incident in Boystown does not appear to involve a flash mob- for now, police do know it was a group of about ten people who attacked one guy but they are not definitely sure about the motivation for the attack.
Andi J, it was the 3rd attack in Boystown in less than 3 weeks, and by definition, it was what they call a 'flash mob" http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Flash_mob
-- a beating done for sport.
"A flash mob (or flashmob) is a group of people who assemble suddenly in a public place, perform an unusual and sometimes seemingly pointless act for a brief time, then disperse, often for the purposes of entertainment and/or satire."
Thanks Laura and AndiJ.
I saw the video of the teen mob violence in Boystown - horrible. But it didn't look like flash mob attacks against pedestrians or deliberate attacks against gays. it looked like these teens were fighting amongst themselves, the victim who was badly stabbed looked to be part of the group.
My take on this is that certain areas just need to be avoided on hot nights and frankly, Chicago is best appreciated during the day, Chicago nightlife isn't very good and is often unsafe. What's fun about the communities around Wrigley Field - just drunk college kids? In Chicago dance clubs people don't know how to dance, it's very dark so you can't see anyone, the thumping music is so loud you can't carry on a conversation. Our young people have no social skills.
It's an environment like this at night that leads to the sort of lifestyle depicted in A Clockwork Orange - Soccer Hooliganism etc. - bored young people with nothing to do - let loose to cause violence and mayhem just for kicks.
I looked up Chicago's curfew laws for folks under the age of 18 and the time is 10PM during the week, 11 PM Friday and Saturday.
So I think an option is to try to close down the whole city for "youths" at 10 PM week nights, 11 PM weekends. Late night events should be very organized and cater to people over the age of 30 - laws and customs about "loitering" need to be pushed.
What do others think about my idea of playing classical music in local parks after hours? Teens hate classical music and will not want to hang out in places where this music is played.
FYI, the beating in boystown, the 3rd in 2 weeks, was a group of 10 15-22 year old males walking south, who came upon a group of 2 women and 3 men walking north, and they suddenly attacked and stabbed and beat the crap out of one young innocent man. The boystown witness who filmed this was stunned and the local residents definitely view this as a case where groups of young men come looking to 'beat the gays' for sport. http://www.suntimes.com/6355051-417/tom-tunney-extremely-concerned-after-videotaped-beating-in-boystown.html
Bring a body guard if you want to play classical music! ;-)
Hey everyone, it's great to see this thread is continuing.
At some point you may want to branch off and post a new neighbor message to start a new discussion (ie. proposal for classical music in the parks). This might also help bring some additional neighbors into the conversation.
You can do that here: http://chicago.everyblock.com/start-discussion/
You don't have to, but I just wanted to make the suggestion.
Thanks Laura for the (depressing) news about the 3rd mob attack in Boystown. This does confirm my own impression that gangs of "youths" target Boystown as a place to go at night to cause trouble, intimidate people or even attack people and there are strong homophobic elements in these attacks.
Another view I have is that crime has to be addressed on a local level. We in Hyde Park have to address crime here, find resources here that work here.
Have others heard the phrase?
"Think Globally, Act Locally"
The Boystown residents have to come up with anti crime strategies that work in their area. We have to police our own community.
From reports And video this does not appear to be a "flash mob" - they did not "appear suddenly" - apparently they two groups were walking in opposite directions when they intersected and the incident began- unless there is other info that has not been reported, we must not jump to the "island of conclusions"
This may or may not have been a hate crime- the reports so far are that the authorities aren't completely sure-
And please let's not become terrified of teenagers- as adults, we hafta maintain our adult status-
Side note - because, between the ages of 11 & 14 I was bullied, stalked, and teased by groups of teen boys, I had to learn early not to let them "see me sweat" - or else they just keep feeling more and more empowered-
And that not all "scary looking " people are the scary dangerous ones-
The Tribune has a good story today discussing the violence in Boystown. Some locals say violence is spilling out from youth programs at a LGBT community center on Halsted:
http://www.chicagotribune.com/news/local/ct-met-boystown-fight-20110706,0,7842584.story
"Some believe that the influx of young people from other neighborhoods can be traced to youth programs at the Center on Halsted, an LGBT community center. Many minority LGBT youth don't feel comfortable or safe being themselves in their own neighborhoods, so they come to the center, which offers everything from a safe space to interact with friends to mentoring and even job-training courses."
Darrell Snyder, 42, has lived in Boystown for 20 years. He said he's concerned about the attacks, but not surprised.
"I don't want them gone," Snyder said. "I just want them to stop hanging out in large groups and to find something to do when they're not at the center.
I meant to call attention to it as violence that can erupt suddenly, throughout our city. I'm going to try the new thrread thing.
To Laura and others.
I'm going to get off line for awhile, concentrate on doing simple positive things in real life. I have a cousin in the area - Sean, who has an interest in stepping up internet anti crime/corruption activism - he's got that Irish rebellious streak about him and I think it should come in handy here.
Take care - best of luke to all.
John
Thanks John - enjoy real life!
;-) wink and a smile