New Neighbors
Jessica and Paul Payne
Jessica and Paul Payne moved into their Beverly/Morgan Park home on Aug. 21, 2019 and couldn’t be happier to be here. After a dozen years in a South Loop condo near UIC, they were smitten with our friendly neighborhood at first sight. As with many of our new neighbors who arrived here without a history in the community, the Paynes learned about Beverly/Morgan Park from coworkers.
“Paul works for the City of Chicago and many colleagues raved about how wonderful the Beverly/Morgan Park neighborhood was and we couldn’t agree more!” Jessica said.
The couple had outgrown the condo lifestyle and were ready house with a garage – Pau’s hobby is woodworking — and space for family and friends to stay when they visit. Both were both born and raised in Cadillac. Michigan area.
“We looked at almost 30 homes before finding our dream home, which was nothing we were envisioning!” Jessica said.
When asked what they like best about living here, Jessica gave an enthusiastic reply: “The people!”
Their block party was held the weekend they moved in. “Everyone on the block made sure to greet us and truly welcome us to the neighborhood,” Jessica said. “The sense of community was prevalent immediately. Our letter carrier made sure to welcome us to the neighborhood and said many residents are second or third generation as people just don’t leave Beverly once they are here. We loved hearing that!”
Although they do not have any children, Jessica and Paul have nieces and nephews ranging from 6 months to 19 years old. “Knowing we were in a safe community with diversity, a yard to play in, and access to incredible healthcare among a plethora of food, shopping, parks, et cetera, made it that much more exciting to be here.,” Jessica said. “Plus, we aren’t that far from the Loop so we really have the best of both worlds.”
The Paynes have been involved with two not-for-profits outside the community and are excited to become volunteers here at home. They will certainly be hearing from BAPA!
In the few months they’ve been here, Jessica and Paul have discovered a lot to love about where they live. “We LOVE to eat (who doesn’t?) and so far, we haven’t had a bad meal,” Jessica said. “Beverly Park has been a top hit with our nieces and nephews and it’s just 2 blocks from our house. We stop at Swanson’s or Nicky’s on the way to the park and a few hours later, we’ll stop at 7-11 for a Slurpee on the way home. Kids love it!”
The Paynes also enjoy events, and cited the Beverly Art Walk, Sip & Shop Girls Night Out, and Breakfast with Santa at the Givens Beverly Castle as part of “what makes Beverly/Morgan Park so popular and so inviting. [We] applaud the everyone that gets involved to keep our neighborhood thriving with excitement and opportunities.”
Jessica and Paul are looking forward to spring. “You’ll be sure to find us out and about exploring everything Beverly/Morgan Park has to offer.”
Are you new to the Beverly/Morgan Park or do you know someone who recently moved here? Let BAPA know! BAPA welcomes new residents to the community and shares information about local organizations, schools, businesses, events and more to help new neighbors become a part of our community. Send contact information to Mary Jo Viero, mjviero@bapa.org or call 773-233-3100.
