It Ain't All Big Hair and Cadillacs

NATIONAL NIGHT OUT SCHEDULED FOR TUESDAY, AUGUST 7, 2007 IN EDGEWATER

The Edgewater Community Council invites you to attend the annual "National Night Out" on Tuesday, August 7th, 2007. ECC is organizing a "Neighborhood Meet and Greet" at the Swift School play lot and all are welcome.

Last year's "National Night Out" involved citizens, law enforcement agencies, civic groups, businesses, neighborhood organizations and local officials from over 10,000 communities from all 50 states, U.S. territories, Canadian cities and military bases worldwide. In all, 34 million people participated in "National Night Out" in 2006. ECC for its' part had a "Neighborhood March" along trouble spots on Kenmore, Winthrop, Granville and Thorndale. The event was concluded with a Roll Call of the 20th and 24th Police District.

"National Night Out" is designed to:Heighten crime and drug prevention awareness;
Generate support for, and participation in, local anticrime partnerships; and
Strengthen neighborhood spirit for, and participation in, local anticrime programs
·Send a message to criminals letting them know that neighborhoods are organized and fighting back

For more information on the event, please contact Aida Kulasic at 773-381-1345 or by email aidakulasic@edgewatercommunitycouncil.org You can also find more information about the "National Night Out" at www.nationalnightout.org.

JUNE CALENDAR OF EVENTS

AA and Al Anon meetings:

North Shore Baptist Church, 5244 N. Lakewood, 773-728-4200: AA Sat. 10 am, 4 pm; Youth AA, Wed. 6:30 pm; AA/Alanon, Wed. 8 pm; Immanuel Lutheran Church, 1500 W. Elmdale, 773-743-1800: Al Anon Fri. 10:15 am; St. Gertrude Ministry Center, 6214 N. Glenwood: 773-561-5343: Al Anon Thurs. 7:30 pm, St. Ita's Church,5500 N. Broadway, 773-561-7343 : AA Tue. 7 pm; Ebenezer Lutheran Church, 1650 W. Foster, 773-334- 5609: AA Mediation, Tue. 7:45 pm, AA Thur.7:45 pm, AA Fri. 7:30 pm, AA Sat. 7 pm, Women's A A, Sun. 6 pm, Men's AA Sun. 6 pm.; Church of the Atonement 5749 N. Kenmore, 773-271-2727: AA Mon: 8 am, 7pm;CA, 8 pm; NA Tue., 7:30 pm; AA Wed. 6 pm, AA Thurs. 7 pm, AA, Fri., 7 pm.

Chicago Public Library's High Speed Wireless Internet System, Edgewater Library, 1210 W. Elmdale.

All you need is a wireless enabled laptop computer, tablet PC or PDA. Library's network is open to all visitors and free of charge without filters. 312-744-0718

Neighborhood Walks are conducted every Monday by the EPIC Block Club and North Edgewater Beach Association. Cellular phones are used for 311 and 911 calls. Walks begin at 8:00 pm northeast corner of Thorndale and Broadway. Dogs on leashes are welcome. Information 773-381-1345

Dog Walking/Safety Patrol, 6 pm, every Thursday, meet in front of Swift School, 5900 N. Winthrop,773-334-5609

Edgewater Historical Society Museum, Open every Saturday, 1-4 pm, 5358 N. Ashland, 773-506-4849

Sewing Classes Every Tuesday, 10 am -12 pm, 6044 N.Broadway, 773-381-1346
Teacher in the Library, Mon., Tue, Thur.,3:30-7:00 pm, Wed., 5:30 pm, Help with Homework, Edgewater Library, 1210 W. Elmdale, 312-744-0718

Cellphone/Printer Cartridge Recycling Program, Gerber/ Hart Library, 1127 W. Granville, accepts expired cellphone and computer printer cartridges, 773-381-8030

Llinnaeus Birthday Celebration: Floral Families, Folk Fashion, Fine Art, continuing through June 10, Swedish American Museum Center, 5211 N. Clark, 773-728-8111

Edgewater Neighborhood Garage Sale, 9 am-4 pm, Broadway to Clark, Ridge to Granville,sponsored by BARGE, EGA, EPIC, NET block clubs, 773-271-2909

Saturday Book Club, Call Library for Book Title, 11 am, Edgewater Library, 1210 W. Elmdale, Book available at Library, 312-744-0718

Edgewater Glen Association Monthly Open Meeting,7 pm, 6044 N. Broadway, 773-334-5609

Community Policing Beat 2433 Meeting, 7 pm, Edgewater Library, 1210 W. Elmdale, 773-334-5609

ECC Membership Committee Meeting, 7 pm, 6044 N. Broadway, 773-334-5609

ECC/EDC Planning/Development Committee Meeting, 7 pm, 6044 North. Broadway, 773-334-5609

Griffin Theatre Company Annual Benefit, 6 pm, Mary's Attic, 5400 N. Clark, $40 per person , $70 per couple, in advance,$50 per person at door, Reserve tickets by June 1, 773-769-2228

Women's Book Discussion Group, " The Color Purple" by Alice Walker, 7:30-9 :00 pm Gerber/Hart Library, 1127 W. Granville, 773-381- 1030

Andersonville Midsommerfest, 10 am - 4 pm, Art, Entertainment, Food, on Clark Street, in the Heart Andersonville, 773-778-2995, ext. 2

Thorndale L Painting/Repair/Cleanup, 8:30-11:am, hosted by EPIC,NEBA, TAHBS block clubs, Volunteers call 773-334-5609

Edgewater Library Summer Reading Program Kickoff, 11 am, Edgewater Library, 1210 W. Elmdale, 312-744-0718

Arts & Crafts for School Aged Children, 3:30-4:30, Edgewater Library, 1210 W. Elmdalle, Also June 18 & 25, 312-744-0718

Hayt School Local School Council Meeting, 7 pm, Hayt School , 1518 W. Granville, 773-534-2040

Community Policing Beat 2022 Meeting, 7 pm, Church of the Atonement, 5749 N. Kenmore, 773-334-5609

TAHBS Association Meeting,After Beat 2022 Meeting, 773-334-5609

"Get Wild About Reading", Program by Hull House11 am, Edgewater Library, 1210 W. Elmdale, 312-744-0718

Community Policing Beat 2012, 7 p.m. St. Gregory Gym, 1609 West Gregory, 773-334-5609

Edgewater Triangle Neighbors Association Meeting, 7 pm, Edgewater Baptist Church, 1401 W. Hollywood, 773-334-5609

ECC Edgewater Beautiful Committee Meeting, 10 am, 6044 N. Broadway, 773-334-5609

Dance Moves: Learn Dance Steps, 1-2 pm, St. Andrew's Church, 5649 N. Sheridan, also June 21, 28, $12 for 3 classes, Sponsored by Mather Edgewater, Reservations required, 1-888-600-2560

Writers at Heart, 1 pm, Edgewater Library, 1210 W. Elmdale, 312-744-0718

Greek Festival sponsored by Mather Edgewater, 11:30 am, $6, Lunch & Entertainment, St. Andrew's Church, 5649 N. Sheridan, Reserve by June 13, 1-888-600-2560

ECC Education Committee, 7 pm, Edgewater Library, 1210 W. Elmdale, 773-334-5609

ECC Board of Directors Meeting, 7 pm, 6044 N. Broadway, 773- 334-5609

Care for Real Committee Meeting, 7 pm, 6044 N. Broadway, 773- 334-5609

Community Policing Beat 2013 Meeting, 7 pm, Philadelphia Church, 5445 N. Clark, 773-334-5609

ECC Book Club, "Inheritance of Loss " by Kiran Desai, 7 pm, Pause Café, 1107 W. Berwyn, Book available at Edgewater Library, 1210 W. Elmdale, 773-334-5609

Northside Players present "The Audition", 8 pm, North Lakeside Cultural Center, 6519 N. Sheridan, $20, Audience space limited, reservations required 773-293-1358, Parking, $3, Must request with reservation. Continues through July 28

Home Expo II (Grant Mortgage Programs), 10 am-2 pm, Free, sponsored by Edgewater Neighbors Block Club and Edgewater Community Council, 773-386-4565

Tuesday Morning Book Club, " Nazi Officers Wife" by Edith Hahn-Beer, 10 am, Edgewater Library, 1210 W. Elmdale, book available at Edgewater Library, 312-744-0718

Edgewater Beach Neighbors Association Meeting, 7 pm, Edgewater Presbyterian Church, 1020 W. Bryn Mawr, 773-334-5609

Men's Book Discussion Group, "The Line of Beauty" by AlanHollinghurst, Booker Prize Winner,7:30-9 pm, Gerber/Hart Library, 1127 W. Granville, 773-381-8030

ECC Safety Committee Meeting, 7 pm, 6044 N.Broadway, 773-334-5609

EBNA 2007 HOME EXPO II

The Edgewater Beach Neighbors' Association invites you to be a part of a community event we will be hosting for buyers and sellers of real estate. The EBNA 2007 Home Expo II will beheld on June 23, 2007 from 10:00 a.m. until 2:00 p.m. at the Epworth Church, 5253 North Kenmore Avenue.

The EBNA 2007 Home Expo II will be a one-stop information source for people interested in learning about purchasing, selling or refinancing real estate. The EBNA 2007 Home Expo II is looking for businesses that provide supportive services to home owners and who are willing to spend some time answering questions and providing information. Topics will include financing, home inspections, appraisals, legal and insurance services, and sponsor's gallery where you can offer information to participants. EBNA Home Expo II is seeking mortgag brokers, bankers, inspectors, insurance brokers, tax specialists and attorneys. Local developers in the Edgewater area are also encouraged to attend.

The EBNA 2007 Home Expo II is free to the public.

Various sponsorship opportunities are available For information on purchasing a table at the event for $125.00 contact the Vice President of the EBNA Block Club, Killian Walsh at 773-386-4565.

April home sales in Illinois rose for the third consecutive month in 2007.

According to IAR's latest report, total home sales (single-family and condos) were up 9.6 percent in April 2007 to 12,932 homes sold compared to 11,797 homes sold in March 2007. Sales were 12.1 percent below the 14,718 homes sold in April 2006. The Illinois median home price in April was $201,000, off 0.5 percent from $202,000 a year earlier.

"The Illinois housing market continues to progressively up-tick month-to-month. Location and pricing are key factors for getting a home sold,” said IAR President Robert Zoretich. “Recent news regarding economic factors including rising energy costs and tighter lending standards due to the subprime situation has added to the tentativeness factor for buyers leading some to delay home-purchase decisions.

This remains, however, a good time for buyers to view a larger inventory and take advantage of attractive mortgage interest rates and flat prices in some areas.”

Source: IAR Weekly Connection

Summer festivals

Courtesy of Chicago Sun Times, June 1, 2007

JUNE

1-3: Chicago Gospel Music Festival, Millennium Park. (312) 744-3315;www.chicago gospelmusicfestival.us.
1-Sept. 30: Cool Globes: Hot Ideas For a Cooler Planet, Lakefront between the Field Museum and E. Balbo. Free. www.coolglobes.org.
2-3: Arlington Heights Promenade of Art, Downtown Arlington Heights. Free. (847) 926-4300; www.amdurproductions.com.
2-3: Belmont-Sheffield Music Festival, Sheffield from Belmont to School. $5 donation. (773) 868-3010; www.chicagoevents.com.
2-3: Community Art Fair, Bixler Park, 57th and Kenwood. Free. (773) 363-8282.
2-3: East Troy Electric Railroad Centennial Celebration Weekend, 2002 Church, East Troy, Wis. (262) 642-3263; www.easttroyrr.org.
2-3: Richton Park's Blues and Bones Fest, Sauk Trail and Governors Highway, Richton Park. $15. (708) 481-8950; www.richtonpark.org.
3: United Run for the Zoo, Lincoln Park Zoo, Cannon and Fullerton. $14-$30. (773) 868-3010; www.chicagoevents.com.
5-Sept. 3: Millennium Park Family Fun Festival, Millennium Park. Free. (312) 742-1168; www.millenniumpark.org.
6-Sept. 3: Cirque Shanghai: Bai Xi, Navy Pier. (773) 205-9600; www.navypier.com.
7-10: Chicago Blues Festival, Grant Park. (312) 744-3315; www.chicagobluesfestival.us.
8-10: Pride of the Fox Riverfest, Downtown St. Charles. (630) 557-2575; www.prideofthefox.com.
8-9: Summerfest, Madison between Besplaines and Harlem, Forest Park. Free. (708) 366-2543.
8-10: Skydiving for MS, Chicagoland Skydiving Center, 12637 US Route 30 West, Hinckley. (800) 404-5867; www.skydivingforms.com.
8-10: SportsFest Collectibles Show, Renaissance Schaumburg Hotel, Schaumburg. $10. www.sportsfestshow.com.
9: Country Western Night Festival, Our Lady of Knock Parish Hall, 497 163rd, Calumet City. $10. (708) 862-3011.
9-10: Ribfest Chicago, Lincoln between Irving Park and Warner. $5 donation. (773) 525-3609.
9-10: Wells Street Art Festival, N. Wells between North and Division. $7-$10 donation. (773) 868-3010; www.chicagoevents.com.
9-24: American Spanish Dance Festival, Northeastern Illinois University, 3701 W. Bryn Mawr. $25-$45. (773) 442-5916; www.neiu.edu/~eespanol.
9-Oct. 7: American Players Theatre Summer Theater Festival, 5950 Golf Course, Spring Green, Wis. $35-$53. (608) 588-2361.
10: Palos Community Hospital's Band on the Run Run, Palos Health and Fitness Center, 153rd and West, Orland Park. $8-$22. (773) 868-3010; www.chicagoevents.com.
14: Hackensaw Boys, James Park, Dodge at Mulford, Evanston. (847) 448-8058; www.cityofevanston.org/arts.
14-17: Festa Pasta Vino, Oakley just south of Cermak. Free. (847) 233-9966; www.festapastavino.com.
15-16: Highland Games and Scottish Festival, Oak Brook Polo Grounds, Oak Brook. (708) 447-5092; www.chicago-scots.org.
15-17: Bloomington Gold Corvette Show, Pheasant Run Golf Course, St. Charles. $15-$40. (309) 888-4477; www.bloomingtongold.com.
15-17: Darkmoon Faire, Renaissance Schaumburg, 1551 N. Thoreau, Schaumburg. Free. www.ude.com.
15-17: Great Galena Balloon Race, Eagle Ridge Resort and Spa, 444 Eagle Ridge, Galena. (815) 777-2444; www.greatgalenaballoonrace.com.
15-17: Lake Meadows Art Fair, Lake Meadows Shopping Center, 35th and King. Free. (312) 225-5692.
15-17: Prairiefest, 91 Plank, Oswego. (630) 554-1010; www.prairiefest.com.
15-17: Taste of Randolph Street, Randolph between Peoria and Racine. $10 donation. (312) 458-9401; www.jamfests.com.
16: Juneteenth, Sankofa Cultural Arts and Business Center, Chicago from Menard to Mayfield. Free. (773) 626-4497.
16: Puerto Rican Pride Parade, Columbus from Balbo to Monroe.
16: Unity Day, Village Green, Hoffman Estates. (847) 882-9100.
16-17: Cantigny Fine Art Festival, Cantigny Park, Wheaton. Free. (847) 926-4300; www.amdurproductions.com.
16-17: Custer's Last Stand, Main Street and Chicago, Evanston. $1 donation. (847) 328-2204; www.custerfair.com.
17: Garden Prairie Strawberry Festival, Susie's Garden Patch, Highway 20, Garden Prairie. Free. (815) 597-3011.
17: Ruralfest, Lisle Station Museum, 921 School, Lisle. $20. (630) 968-0499; www.ruralfest.com.
17-Aug. 26: Chicago Outdoor Film Festival, Grant Park, Butler Field, Monroe and Lake Shore. Free. (312) 744-3315.
19: Lucy Smith, Butler Bark, Canal and Dempster, Evanston. Free. (847) 448-8058; www.cityofevanston.org/arts.
19-24: Midsommar Festival Swedish Days, Downtown Geneva. (630) 232-6060; www.genevachamber.com.
20-24: Country Fair, Church of the Holy Spirit, 1451 Bode, Schaumburg. (847) 882-7580; www.churchoftheholyspirit.org.
21: Question Mark and the Mysterians, James Park, Dodge at Mulford, Evanston. Free. (847) 448-8058; www.cityofevanston.org/arts.
21-Aug. 18: Northwestern Summer Music Theatre Festival, Northwestern University, 20 Arts Circle Drive, Evanston. (847) 491-7282; www.northwestern.edu.
22: Chicagoland Ukulele Jam Festival, 1300 Maybrook, Maywood. $10. (708) 615-9000.
22-23: Berwyn's Cartopia, Cermak and Harlem, Berwyn. (708) 788-8100; www.berwyncartopia.com.
22-23: Cans Music Fest, 1640 N. Damen. $5 donation. (773) 276-7582.
22-24: Close Up 2 Smooth Jazz Summer Festival, Pritzker Park, State and Van Buren. Free. (312) 385-1111.
22-24: Downers Grove Heritage Festival, Main and Curtiss, Downers Grove. Free. (630) 434-5555.
22-24: Taste of Greece on LaSalle Street, Annunciation Cathedral of Chicago, 1017 N. LaSalle. (312) 664-5485.
23: Chicago Pride Fest, Waveland and Halsted. $5 donation. (773) 868-3010; www.chicagoevents.com.
23: Villa Park Summerfest, Cortesi Veterans Memorial Park, 320 E. Kenilworth. Free. (630) 834-8500.
23-24: Belmont Arts and Music Festival, Belmont between Damen and Leavitt. $5 donation. (773) 327-5123; www.rvcc.biz.
23-24: Fountain Square Art Festival, Downtown Evanston. $5. (773) 868-3010; www.chicagoevents.com.
23-24: St. Andrew the Apostle Parish SummerFest, 768 Lincoln, Calumet City. (708) 862-4165.
23-Sept. 30: Morton Arboretum Summer Concert Series, Morton Arboretum, 4100 Route 53, Lisle. $6-$15. (773) 868-3010; www.chicagoevents.com.
24: Garage Sale Sunday, Harlem-Foster Shopping Center, 7240 W. Foster. (773) 631-4000.
24: Gay and Lesbian Pride Parade, Halsted and Belmont. Free. (773) 348-8243; www.chicagopridecalendar.org.
28: Dub Dis, James Park, Dodge at Mulford, Evanston. Free. (847) 448-8058; www.cityofevanston.org/arts.
28-Aug. 2: Plaza del Lago Concert Series, 1515 N. Sheridan, Wilmette. (847) 884-0000; www.plazadelago.com.
29-July 1: Crystal Lake Gala Festival, 401 Country Club, Crystal Lake. $5. www.clgala.com.
29-July 1: Des Moines Arts Festival, Western Gateway Park, Des Moines. (515) 286-4950; www.desmoinesartsfestival.org.
29-July 1: Jeff Fest, Higgins and Milwaukee. $5 donation. (773) 868-3010; www.chicagoevents.org.
29-July 1: Pizza Fest, Racine and Fullerton. $5. (773) 868-3010; www.chicagoevents.com.
29-July 4: Lisle Eyes to the Skies Balloon Festival, Lisle Community Park, Lisle. $10. (630) 575-9798; www.eyestotheskiesfestival.com.
29-July 8: Taste of Chicago, Grant Park. (312) 744-3315; www.tasteofchicago.us.
30: Chicago Antique Market, W. Randolph. $8. (312) 951-9939; www.chicagoantiquemarket.com.
30-July 1: Chicago Country Music Festival, Grant Park. (312) 744-3315; www.chicagocountrymusicfestival.us.
30-July 1: Joliet Fine Art Festival of the Masters, Chicago Ave. near Rialto Square Theatre. Free. (847) 926-4300; www.amdurproductions.com.
30-July 4: Naperville Ribfest, Knoch Park, Naperville. $10. (630) 548-5215; www.ribfest.net.

JULY

1: International Festival, The Lighthouse Church of All Nations, 4501 W. 127th, Alsip. Free. (708) 385-6020.
3: Independence Eve Fireworks Spectacular, Grant Park. (312) 744-3315.
3-4: Wheeling Freedom Fest, Park District Field, 333 W. Dundee, Wheeling. (773) 868-3010; www.chicagoevents.com.
3-8: Lions Village Fair and Taste of Mt. prospect, Melas Park, Central and Busse, Mt. Prospect. Free. www.mtprospectlions.com.
4: Fireworks and Peter Frampton, Hamilton Lakes, Thorndale and Rt. 53, Itasca. Free. (630) 773-0835.
4: Hinsdale Independence Day Show, Third and Washington, Hinsdale. Free. (630) 325-8080.
4: Lake Forest Festival and Fireworks, Deerpath Community Park, Deerpath and Hastings, Lake Forest. Free. (847) 234-6700; www.chicagoevents.com.
5: Picante, James Park, Dodge at Mulford, Evanston. Free. (847) 448-8058; www.cityofevanston.org/arts.
5: Sidewalk Sale, Harlem-Foster Shopping Center, 7240 W. Foster. (773) 631-4000.
6-8: Peace Fest, 1660 N. Stockton. Free. (708) 212-2035.
7: Exotica 2007, FitzGerald's, 6615 Roosevelt, Berwyn. $35. (219) 923-4748.
7: Wrigleyville Summer Fest, Resurrection Lutheran Church, Seminary between Roscoe and School. $5. www.wrigleyvillesummerfest.com.
7: Bristol Renaissance Faire, Russell Road, Kenosha, Wis. (847) 395-7773; www.renfair.com.
7: Party in the Park, Unity Park, 2636 N. Kimball. Free. (773) 478-1410.
7-8: Lake View Music Fest, Barry and Ashland. $5 donation. (773) 868-3010; www.chicagoevents.com.
7-8: Lincolnshire Fine Art Festival, Village Green, Lincolnshire. Free. (847) 926-4300; www.amdurproductions.com.
7-8: Skokie Art Guild Annual Art Fair, Skokie Village Green, 5211 W. Oakton, Skokie. Free. (847) 677-8163.
7: Summer Soiree, North Berwyn Park District, 1619 Wesley, Berwyn. Free. (708) 749-4900.
10: Hot 8 Brass Band, Twiggs Park, Simpson at Dodge, Evanston. Free. (847) 448-8058; www.cityofevanston.org/arts.
11: Sunset Cinema, Lincoln Park, Lake Shore and Waveland. $10. www.sunsetscreenings.com.
12: Gin Palace Jesters, James Park, Dodge at Mulford, Evanston. Free. (847) 448-8058; www.cityofevanston.org/arts.
12: Niketown Bastille Day 5K Run, Walk and Block Party, Jackson and Aberdeen. $25-$30. (773) 868-3010; www.chicagoevents.com.
12-15: Lincolnwood Fest, Proesel Park, 6900 Lincoln, Lincolnwood. (847) 679-5760; www.lincolnwoodfest.com.
12-15: St. Symphorosa Parish Family Fest, St. Symphorosa, 6135 S. Austin. Free. (773) 767-1523.
12-15: West Chicago Railroad Days, Reed-Keppler Park, Arbor and Hawthorne, West Chicago. Free. (773) 868-3010; www.chicagoevents.com.
13-15: Irish Fest, Irish American Heritage Center, 4626 Knox. $12. (773) 282-7035 Ext. 10.
13-15: Magnificent Mile Art Festival, Pioneer Court, N. Michigan. Free. (954) 472-3755; www.artfestival.com.
13-15: Michigan Peace Festival, Willow Ranch, Lacota, Michigan. $30. (269) 253-4306; www.michiganpeacefest.com.
14: Kicks for Kids, Hutchinson Field, Grant Park. (773) 868-3010; www.chicagoevents.com.
14-15: Buffalo Grove Invitational Fine Art Festival, Buffalo Grove. Free. (847) 926-4300; www.amdurproductions.com.
14-15: Chicago Folk & Roots Festival, Welles Park, 4400 N. Lincoln between Montrose and Sunnyside. $7. (773) 728-6000; www.oldtownschool.org/festival.
14-15: DuSable Museum of African American History Arts and Crafts Festival, 740 E. 56th Place. Free. (773) 947-0600; www.dusablemuseum.org.
14-15: Mayor's Cup Youth Soccer, Lincoln Park, Montrose and Lake Shore. (312) 744-3315.
14-15: North Shore Art Festival, Westfield Old Orchard parking lot, Skokie. Free. (773) 868-3010; www.chicagoevents.com.
14-Aug. 25: Puerto Rican Film Festival, Humboldt Park Boat House, 1440 N. Sacramento. (773) 486-8345; www.iprac.org.
17: Brute Force, Dawes Park, Sheridan at Church, Evanston. Free. (847) 448-8058; www.cityofevanston.org/arts.
19: The 1900s, James Park, Dodge and Mulford, Evanston. Free. (847) 448-8058; www.cityofevanston.org/arts.
20: The Ultimate Coffee Break, 2 N. Riverside Plaza. Free. (312) 920-9802.
21: The Silver Room's Sound System Block Party, Evergreen and Milwaukee. Free. (773) 278-7130.
21-22: St. Barbara Family Fest, 2859 S. Throop. Free. (312) 842-7979.
21-22: Southside Art and Music Festival, Halsted between 32nd and 35th. $5 donation. (773) 927-7373; www.chicagoevents.com.
21-22: South Side Art and Music Festival, 35th and Halsted. $5 donation. (773) 868-3010; www.chicagoevents.com.
23-Aug. 5: Chicago Human Rhythm Project's Rhythm World Festival, Chicago Cultural Center, 78 E. Washington and Northwestern University, 1979 S. Campus, Evanston. (773) 281-1825; www.chicagotap.org.
24: Instant Karma Band, Dawes Park, Sheridan at Church, Evanston. Free. (847) 448-8058; www.cityofevanston.org/arts.
25-29: DuPage County Fair, DuPage County Fairgrounds, 2015 W. Manchester, Wheaton. $7. (630) 668-6636; www.dupagecountyfair.org.
28: Chicago Antique Market, W. Randolph. $8. (312) 951-9939; www.chicagoantiquemarket.com.
28-29: Geneva Arts Fair, Third Street, Geneva. (630) 232-6060; www.genevachamber.com.
28: Palmer "Mud Queens" block Party, Palmer between Leavitt and Bell. Free. (773) 852-8990.
28: Venetian Night, Lakefront.
28-29: Greek Festival, St. Peter and Paul Greek Orthodox Church, 1401 Wagner, Glenview. $3. (847) 729-2235; www.glenviewgreekfest.com.
28-29: Taste of Lincoln Avenue, N. Lincoln between Fullerton and Wrightwood. $7-$10 donation. (773) 868-3010; www.chicagoevents.com.
28-Aug. 12: Woodstock Mozart Festival, Woodstock Opera House, Woodstock. (815) 338-5300; www.mozartfest.org.
31: Hobex, Dawes Park, Sheridan at Church, Evanston. Free. (847) 448-8058; www.cityofevanston.org/arts.

AUGUST

1-4: Jazz Dance World Festival, The Harris Teater for Music and Dance in Millenium Park, 205 E. Randolph. $45-$60. (312) 334-7777; www.harristheaterchicago.org.
3-5: Gold Coast Art Fair, River North. free. (847) 926-4300; www.amdurproductions.com.
3-5: Lollapalooza, Grant Park. www.lollapalooza.com.
3-5: Sugar Creek Symphony and Song, Cherry Street Art Fest, Watseka. (815) 432-1111; www.sugarcreekfestival.org.
4: 37th Ward, Back-to-School Gospel Fest, LaFollette Park, 1333 N. Laramie. Free. (773) 745-2894.
4: Glory to Glory Family Christian Center Inspiration of Love Community Festival, 122 S. Parnell. Free. (773) 568-0074.
7: Elana James, Dawes Park, Sheridan at Church, Evanston. Free. (847) 448-8058; www.cityofevanston.org/arts.
8-12: Crestwood Fest, 141st and Kenton, Crestwood. Free. (708) 371-4800; www.crestwoodrecreation.com.
9: Occidental Brothers Dance Band International, Twiggs Park, Simpson at Dodge, Evanston. Free. (847) 448-8058; www.cityofevanston.org/arts.
9: Race Judicata, Grant Park. $31-$38. (773) 868-3010; www.chicagoevents.com.
9-12: Mendota Sweet Corn Festival, Downtown Mendota. Free. (815) 539-6507; www.sweetcornfestival.com.
10-12: Taylor Street Festa Italiana, Taylor between Ashland and Loomis. $10 donation. (312) 458-9401; www.jamfests.com.
11-12: Alexian Brothers Tour of Elk Grove, Elk Grove. Free. (773) 868-3010; www.tourofelkgrove.com
11-12: Art at the Glen Town Center, Glen Town Center, Glenview. Free. (847) 926-4300; www.amdurproductions.com.
11-12: Northalsted Market Days, N. Halsted between Belmont and Addison. $6 donation. (773) 868-3010; www.chicagoevents.com.
12: Prairie Trail Storytelling Festival, Lake Ellyn Park, Lenox Road, Glen Ellyn. Free. (630) 469-0879; www.gepl.org.
14: Indigo, Dawes Park, Sheridan at Church, Evanston. Free. (847) 448-8058; www.cityofevanston.org/arts.
14: Reggae Cowboys, Dawes Park, Sheridan at Dawes, Evanston. (847) 448-8058; www.cityofevanston.org/arts.
18-19: Chicago Air and Water Show.
18-19: National Championship of Cycling, Main and Curtiss, Downers Grove. Free. (773) 868-3010; www.dgcycling.com.
24-25: AnnunciataFest, Annunciata Church, 11128 S. Avenue G. (773) 592-4186; www.annunciataonline.com.
24-26: Skokie's Backlot Bash, Oakton and Floral, Skokie. Free. (847) 674-1500.
25: Chicago Antique Market, W. Randolph. $8. (312) 951-9939; www.chicagoantiquemarket.com.
25-26: Glenwood Avenue Arts Festival, Glenwood between Farwell and Lunt. Free. (773) 262-3790; www.rogerspark.com.
25-26: Port Clinton Art Festival, Highland Park. Free. (847) 926-4300; www.amdurproductions.com.
25-26: Viva! Chicago Latin Music Festival, Grant Park. www.vivachicago.us.
26: Polka Fest 2007, Bicentennial Park. Free. (815) 724-3760.
30-Sept. 3: Buffalo Grove Days, Lake Cook and Raupp, Buffalo Grove. (847) 459-2500; www.vbg.org.
30-Sept. 2: Chicago Jazz Festival, Grant Park. www.chicagojazzfestival.org.

SEPTEMBER

1-2: Bash on Wabash, 1300-1500 S. Wabash. $5. (773) 868-3010; www.chicagoevents.com.
7-8: Windy City Wine Festival, Daley Bicentennial Plaza, Grant Park. $25. (847) 382-1480; www.windycitywinefestival.com.
7-9: Mokena Downtown Merchants Association, Wolf and Front, Mokena. $2. (773) 379-7759.
8: For the Love of Art Street Fair, Downtown Whiting, Ind. (219) 659-0901.
8-9: Lake View East Fine Art Festival, Broadway from Belmont to Roscoe. Free. (847) 926-4300; www.amdurproductions.com.
9: Guinness Oyster Fest, Roscoe Village. $5 donation. (773) 868-3010; www.chicagoevents.com.

9: Misericordia Family Fest, 6300 N. Ridge. $7. (773) 273-2766.
13-16: Festival de la Villita, 26th and Kostner. (773) 868-3010; www.chicagoevents.com.
14-16: Festival of the Vine, Downtown Genveva. Free. (630) 232-6060; www.genevachamber.com.
14-15: Naperville Wine Festival, Naper Settlement, Naperville. (847) 382-1480; www.napervillewinefestival.com.
15: AIDS Run and Walk Chicago, Grant Park. $20-$25. (312) 334-0946; www.aidschicago.org.
15: The Wine Crush in Old Town, North and Wells. $5 donation. (773) 868-3010; www.chicagoevents.com.
20-23: Italian Style 2007, Crystal Gardens at Navy Pier. Free. (312) 553-9137.
29: Chicago Antique Market, W. Randolph. $8. (312) 951-9939; www.chicagoantiquemarket.com.
29: Johnny Appleseed Festival, Downtown Crystal Lake. Free. (815) 479-0835; www.downtowncl.org.

OCTOBER

6-7: Midwest Literary Festival, Aurora. Free. (630) 844-4731; www.midwestliteraryfestival.com.
27: Chicago Antique Market, W. Randolph. $8. (312) 951-9939; www.chicagoantiquemarket.com.
Note: All events are subject to change without notice. Information was accurate as of press time.

Call and write to your legislator today and urge them to vote against the proposed Real Estate Transfer Tax for the RTA.

Senate Bill 572, as amended includes the authority for the Regional Transportation Authority (RTA) to impose a real estate transfer tax of $3 per $1,000 within the city of Chicago WITHOUT VOTER APPROVAL.

The Illinois Association of REALTORS and the Chicago Association of REALTORS STRONGLY OPPOSE this proposal and urge you to contact your Representative and Senator and urge them to REJECT this proposed transfer tax increase.

It is very troubling to give this statutory authority to levy a real estate transfer tax to a special taxing district governed by an APPOINTED Board.

This is ANOTHER LAYER OF TAXING authority on property owners in Chicago where a very high home rule municipal real estate transfer tax is already in place ($7.50 per $1,000 paid by the buyer) in addition to the State and county real estate transfer tax (combined $1.50 per $1,000 on the seller).

Illinois law also is very clear in that VOTER INPUT is required to impose a new or to increase an existing home rule real estate transfer tax. This proposal contravenes that public policy.
As you are well aware, the real estate transfer tax is a "hidden" property tax because most property owners are not aware of it until they buy or sell property.

SB 572 is sponsored by Representatives Julie Hamos, Paul Froehlich and Kathy Ryg and Senator John Cullerton and Ira Silverstein. To send an e-mail to your Senator and Rep., follow the prompts below. To call your state legislators, go to www.ilga.gov and look in the "Members" section for your legislators' Springfield phone numbers (the one with a 217 area code)

Click the link below to log in and send your message:

HOUSE passes version of the 7% bill Late Wednesday night (Thursday morning) the Illinois House passed House Amendment #1 to SB13.

The votes:
101 Aye
9 No
6 Present
Click HERE to see the Votes

The bill now goes to the Senate, with expectations that it may be called for a vote today (Thursday).

The language of this bill became available to us Wednesday morning, and has MANY components. TRAC will need time to review and fully understand the bill.

In essence, House Amendment #1 increases the Alternative general homestead exemption (the 7% cap) to $30,000 in the first year (previously $20,000); $24,000 in the second year; and $18,000 in the third year.

The bill aslo includes:
- Disabled veterans exemption
- Returning Veteran's homestead exemption (one-time benefit)
- Disabled persons' homestead exemption
- Disabled veterans standard homestead exemption
- An increase to the senior citizens homestead exemption
- An increase in the senior citizens assessment freeze homestead exemption
- An increase in the general homestead exemption
- The long-time occupant homestead exemption
- An abatement for the residence of a surviving spouse of a fallen police officer or rescue worker

The bill also establishes a Property Tax Reform and Relief Task Force selected from the House and the Senate.

There is a lot to review in this bill - and we look to have more information as it passes the Senate and makes its way to the Governor for his signature.

P.S. the House also passed a budget bill last night.