Last week I got the nicest call from a reader of my column. He thanked me for mentioning Peace Officers Memorial Day on May 15. It meant a lot to him and to many people, I’m sure.
President John Kennedy signed the day into law in 1962 to remember law enforcement officers who died or were disabled in the line of duty. I remember learning about this in my current events class in elementary school. My Girl Scout Troop marched in a neighborhood Memorial Day parade that honored and remembered not only soldiers who died but police officers as well. I don’t know if this is still part of the school curriculum these days. I hope parents will teach their kids about it. How meaningful it would be to honor and remember all police who gave their lives in the line of duty.
Congratulations to Linda Kelly, the principal of Queen of the Universe School at 7130 S. Hamlin. Principal Kelly was awarded the Gretchen A. Ludwig Outstanding Principal Award. This annual award is given to an exceptional school leader who embodies excellence, integrity, and commitment to children by providing a path to success. The Archdiocese of Chicago Catholic Schools reports that 72 percent of Queen of the Universe students perform at or above grade level in reading. This is quite an accomplishment for a Chicago school. Only 40 percent of Chicago Public School elementary students are reading at grade level. Thank you Principal Kelly for your leadership. May the coming year bring continued success to you and Queen of the Universe students.
The Universidad Popular (People’s University) at 3702 W. 60th St. has a program called Up to Youth. They offer summer activities every day from 10:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. for kids ages 11 to 17 years old. They offer music, art, sports, games, and more. Register in person.
Pop-N-Pizza restaurant at the corner of Lawndale and 59th is now giving a free slice and a soda to any kid, first grade through high school who has all A’s on their report card. Bring your report card and enjoy some pizza. Pop-N-Pizza is open every afternoon to late evening hours.
Speaking of pizza, the following neighborhood pizzerias are uniting to support our police officers: Stunods, Cipriani, Triano, and Danny’s. All are offering donations to the Healthy Mind Healthy Life Fundraiser which supports police wellness. Let’s support these pizzerias. Enjoy yummy pizza and help our guys and gals in blue at the same time.
Recently, thieves broke into local businesses on Archer Avenue. They stole cash and seriously damaged the properties of Borinken Cakes, Wing Stop, Rosatti’s, and a barbershop. Video surveillance captured the moment that the thieves broke into the bakery but as of today, no one is in custody. One neighbor said “What we need is a police station that is located in this immediate area.”
23rd Ward Alderman Silvana Tabares is collecting food and other donations for a neighborhood food pantry. Items needed are baby supplies like shampoo, lotion, diapers, and wipes, plus non-perishable foods like canned and boxed goods. Donations can be dropped off at either of her offices — 5680 S. Archer or 3954 W. 63rd Street until June 30. Call the alderman’s office at 773-582-4444 for more information. Thank you Alderman Tabares!
Marquette Bank at 6155 S. Pulaski is also collecting non-perishable food items as well for their Neighborhood Food Drive. Bring your donations to the bank lobby until June 26. Bank hours are Monday through Thursday 9 to 5, Fridays 9 to 7, and Saturday 9 to 2.
Here’s something fun. The Ballet Folklorico de Chicago will be performing at Strohacker Park at 4347 W. 54th St. on Thursday, June 18. Participants of all ages can learn the traditional folk dance called Jarabe Tapatio. No experience is needed. The dance company will provide a welcoming environment. The fun starts at 7 p.m. and goes to 8 p.m.
A Dog and Cat Adoption Event will take place on Friday, June 19, 3 to 8 p.m. at the VFW Rhine Post located at 5858 S. Archer. The members of the VFW are putting an enormous effort into this event even though most are in their 80s and 90s! There will be lots of rescue animals both dogs and cats, available for adoption. There will also be food, vendors, raffles, and music. Call Ramona at 630-991-3834 if you have any questions.
I talked to Ramona who is the organizer of this event. She is truly an embodiment of the Bible verse from II Corinthians about a cheerful giver. Ramona has put so much care and effort into this event. She said that the community has really stepped up and volunteered due to their love of animals. Several local businesses are donating food and gifts for the raffles. Ramona said “Our love of animals brings us together. I think this is going to be a real love fest.”
Speaking of animals, loose dogs continue to run around our neighborhood every single day. Please, dog owners — be responsible and take care of your dogs. Just today, I met three dedicated teens who were trying to find the owner of a loose dog that was spotted roaming around near Lawndale and 60th Street. I appreciate their efforts.
West Lawn correspondent Peggy Zabicki can be reached at 773-504-9327.