You can bank on good service here

By Kathy Headley

Your correspondent in Chicago Lawn and Marquette Manor

6610 S. Francisco • (773) 776-7778

In this world of corporate takeovers, it is kind of hard to feel safe in the hands of big business.

First, we have to supply some of our personal information to the automated system. Then there’s the seemingly endless time spent on hold or being transferred from department to department; and of course, the possible disconnection during transfer.

If we are lucky enough to get through all of that and find a person on the other end of the line that can help, let’s hope we don’t have to call back because we will never find that person again.

That said, even though it has been through several name changes since this business was first established, US Bank, 3525 W. 63^rd St., has retained its neighborhood feel. Everyone is friendly and welcoming. I could go through a list starting with Diana, who has been there through several name changes; and Emilio, who is the branch manager.

But this is a special shout out to Deisy Gonzalez.

Through no fault of my own, a problem came up on an account I have with them. As soon as I was alerted, I went into our branch and was greeted by Deisy. From that moment on, she made me feel I had nothing to worry about because, while it might take a while, the problem would be fixed. I spent several hours at the bank that day as she dug through the red tape for me, explaining every step as she went.

Kathy Headley

In all, the debacle took just over six weeks to correct. Normally I think that would be horrifying, waiting in frustration, but Deisy took that upon herself as well, continually checking the progress on her own and then calling me with updates. Quite frankly, in those six weeks, she didn’t give me time to get upset or worried.

When we last hung up the phone, Deisy said, “If you have any questions on your app or any problems at all, I’ll be here and happy to help.” Knowing that makes me feel really good.

You may have heard about the community baby shower coming up on Sunday, Jan. 30. This event is being sponsored by Monarca and the Helen and Joe Foundation, a newer not-for-profit, that was established in 2019. As the pandemic situation worsened and people began to lose their jobs, the NFP saw a need. This is their first event of this type. They will offer food, gifts, and resources for single moms. They also would be happy to accept in kind donations, gently used items, baby furniture, car seats, etc. To sign-up for the event or to donate, call Juanita the Community Engagement Director at (312) 972-9133.

Just as last week, as of this writing, the events I’ve listed at the Chicago Lawn Branch Library, the Soutwest Regional Senior Center and Marquette Park are still taking place. But as we experienced last year, things can change in an instant. So I would think calling ahead might still be a good idea right now.

A reminder that two special DVD productions featuring the final Latin Mass at St. Thomas More Church and also Msgr. Zborowski’s final Mass, which celebrated the 75^th anniversary of St. Thomas More Parish, are available for purchase. For more information, contact Father Scott Haynes at president@muicapacis.org.

Now for our final trip back to 1972, last week I wondered if anyone remembered the name of the restaurant was going to be opening at 3007 W. 63^rd St. Fifty years ago this month the store at that address was being remodeled into a restaurant by owner Dennis Xenos. Rich G. was the first to come up with the answer we were looking for: Little Denni’s.

Last month, when we were Christmas shopping while visiting 1971, we learned that Lindon’s Furniture and Applicances, 2540 W. 63^rd St., was going out of business. Mary Lou B. grew up not far from Lindon’s, on 62^nd and Campbell. She remembers at some point in the 1960s that Lindon’s had a monkey in a cage in the window.

All the kids would walk by and wave or try to talk to the little fellow. Sometimes the monkey would not appreciate the attention, and would jump toward the window, sending the kids falling backwards. She was wondering if anyone else remembered the monkey.

She also remembers a cow on the loose, running down possibly Maplewood at some point. She doesn’t remember where it came from but knows it was rounded up and brought back to its proper home, She does remember kids running over just to see and also the damage the cow did to the front lawns on its outing. If you can add to either of these memories, please let us know.

Next week we’ll begin going back thirty years, spending some time in 1992.