.
By Mary Stanek
Your correspondent in Archer Heights and West Elsdon
3808 W. 57th Place • (773) 517-7796
.
Spring is still far away, but the Staneks are getting ready. Over the past few years, the yield on our pear tree has not been as prosperous as in past years. So, this week, Davey tree (the tree doctor) is coming to make it better. The tree is going to be trimmed while there are no leaves in the way.
I predict it will be a big project, because it is a big tree. But come spring, I am hoping for sweet smelling blossoms and come September – fruit, and lots of it! So be prepared, neighbors, for pears.
Back in the day, both my husband, Robert, and I served terms on the Peck Elementary School’s Local School Council. It was a way to get involved in the community; and since we are right across the street, a way to voice our opinion as well. We had a great bunch of people: Linda Young (RIP), the “mayor” of 57th Place at that time; a great principal, Mr. Domovic; and even Tony Peraica.
The Chicago Public Schools’ elections for Local School Council members are coming up soon. To apply for a position on your school’s LSC, the deadline is Feb. 8. For more information, please visit cps.edu. The Midway Chamber of Commerce’s Restaurant Week runs from Feb. 9-18. Many restaurants along Archer will be participating in this event with discounted items and specialty menus. The list is long and still growing. I can name a few that are closer to Archer Heights and West Elsdon: Red Barrel Restaurant and Guide’s Sports Bar. In fact, you might even find me at Guide’s.
On that note, I want to say thank you to both Joe and Daria from Guide’s for the help/support they have shown me during the past few months. It is great to visit a place where everyone knows your name! For those of you that are not aware, it has been a very trying holiday season and January for my family. Robert decided to take sick and was hospitalized but is on the mend. Also thank you to my prayer warriors, the Sisters of St. Turibius.
Another person who really pulled things together for us was our social worker from RUSH Hospital. For that reason, I would like to visit the Garfield Ridge Satellite Senior Center, 5674-B S. Archer, on Thursdays from 8:30 to 11:30 a.m. During that time, a social worker will be available to talk one on one with seniors. Social workers help vulnerable people and are committed to advocating for individuals and families.
Artopia is featuring more free concerts at West Lawn Branch Library. On Tuesday, Feb. 20 there will be a guitar duo. The concert starts at 7 p.m. There are a few more on the agenda later in the spring.