We’re BAPA Members. Are You?
Ryan Steinbach & Steve English, The Blossom Boys
“Ten years ago we discovered this mysterious place called Beverly, intrigued by a flower shop for sale. Like too many North Siders, we had never been here. We chose to stay, opened The Blossom Boys and purchased our home. We were different in many ways and decided that’s the reason we should be here. We have reopened The Blossom Boys and have been astounded by the support and generosity of our neighbors – including a donation of emergency toilet paper prior to BAPA’s Sip and Shop. BAPA’s work contributes to the spirit of community we embrace. We are here to stay.”
Monica and Chris Wilczak
“When we moved to Beverly more than 13 years ago, the owner of the bungalow we were buying made us promise we would get involved in the neighborhood. He knew, firsthand, the impact volunteering can have on a community — he was Chuck Shanabruch, former Executive Director of BAPA and founder of the Chicago Bungalow Association. While we had a fixer-upper and a newborn, we joined the Southwest Beverly Improvement Association (SWBIA), and later joined the board of BAPA. Beverly is a great community, but as North Side transplants, we had to yet feel like it was our community. Art is such an integral part of our lives, yet we had to leave the neighborhood to see it. So we sought to be the change we wanted to see. From the beginning, BAPA was a great supporter and advocate for the Beverly Area Arts Alliance, and five years later, the Beverly Art Walk has become as engrained in our community as the Southside Irish Parade or the Ridge Run. This is why we support BAPA and believe in their community leadership and fellowship.
