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Three MPHS Students Admitted to U of C Collegiate Scholars Program 

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By Kristin Boza 

Since 2003, the University of Chicago has hosted the Chicago Public School students in the Collegiate Scholars Program, a competitive three-year program designed to prepare students in grades 10-12 for admittance and achievement at the top colleges in the country. Only 50 spots are open for each new class; three of those spots have been earned by Morgan Park High School (MPHS) students Devan King, Caval Spearman and Erica Taylor. The students begin their Collegiate Scholars journey this summer, and will have the opportunity to take college courses, go on trips around Chicago, and participate in SAT prep classes, among many other unique academic and social opportunities.  

According to U of C, 100% of program graduates earn a four-year college degree, with 70% of them attending highly selective universities. “Collegiate Scholars is an opportunity for students to broaden their academic horizons,” said Dr. Femi Skanes, MPHS principal. “We want to ensure that our students are connected to a variety of academic programs that enhance their ability to compete at Morgan Park and in the next phase of their academic pursuits. We are honored to have three of our top-performing students in this prestigious program. All three students are absolutely wonderful students who represent Morgan Park High School well.” 

MPHS Assistant Principal Kai Erguhart and Dr. Skanes helped eligible students apply, according to Carisa Parker, MPHS parent and LSC Chair. Parker’s daughter and Skanes’ son are two of the three MPHS students accepted into the program.  

“There was an essay portion in the application where students had to talk about how they overcame obstacles, how they see themselves as a leader in their community, and what they hope to gain from this experience,” Parker said. “Ms. Erguhart and Dr. Skanes made sure the students were on task and they even took personal time to give them some interview skills to increase their confidence. I am so proud of these three students and know that they will not only make the Morgan Park community proud, but also be future leaders who help make a difference in society.” 

Students begin the program during the summer after their freshman year of high school. Two of the MPHS students were available for comments for this article. 

 Erica Taylor, from Washington Heights, is looking forward to interacting with people from different cultural backgrounds. “For the next three years, I hope to improve my test-taking skills, grow as a leader, and participate in fun and interesting activities around the city,” she said. “After high school, I aspire to go to the university of my choice and attend a medical program, after which I will become a pediatrician or a gynecologist working in my community to help women and children.”  

Taylor credits her mom, Carisa Parker, to pushing her and giving her the necessary tools to be successful. “I would also like to thank the new administration who cares about our school’s students for pushing me to sign up for this program and preparing me for each step in the process.” 

Beverly/Morgan Park resident Caval Spearman, Jr., son of Dr. Skanes, is looking forward to taking advanced classes and gaining experience to prepare for college. “I hope to gain more maturity, more knowledge to be prepared for college, experiences that will guide me to the next level, and gain a bond with friends that can last a long time. After high school, I aspire to go to the University of California and major in Mass Communications,” Spearman said. “[I’m thankful] for the love and support of my family and teachers at Morgan Park throughout this journey.” 

 

New Ideas for Vintage Homes

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BAPA Home Tour + Home Expo Give Before-and-After Insights to Gracious Living

On Sun., May 19, the old and the new come together as the Beverly Area Planning Association (BAPA) launches the new Home Expo on the morning of the popular Beverly/Morgan Park Home Tour. Together, the events offer before-and-after insights to gracious neighborhood living.

The BAPA Home Expo will take place at Bethany Union Church, 1750 W. 103rd St., Chicago, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., and the Home Tour will start at the same location, with tour check-in and ticket sales 12 to 3 p.m. Home Tour locations are open 12 to 5 p.m.

BAPA Home Expo

Designed to give property owners a range of accessible expert advice, the Home Expo invites attendees to talk to interior designers, wood restoration experts, people who offer eco-friendly services, and companies that offer roofing (including slate roofing), heating and air conditioning, plumbing, decks, landscape design, composting, paint and more.

People considering home projects are welcome to participate in the AIA Chicago Ask and Architect program that connects residential architects with homeowners looking to expand or improve their homes. Bungalows, two-flats, or new construction—architects will be standing by with free, personalized advice.  The architects will be available for short consultations on a first come/first served. Bring plans, drawings, ideas, or any other pertinent information so the architects can assist in the best possible way.

The Chicago Bungalow Association will present information on its Stop the Pop campaign that encourages bungalow owners who are planning home additions to maintain the exterior integrity of the original architectural design. This presentation, scheduled for 10:15 a.m., can benefit all property owners who are considering additions.

Oak Brothers Architectural Restoration will present information on restoring and caring for vintage windows, woodwork and architectural elements at 11 a.m. The Oak Brothers are specialists in repairing original windows, providing custom millwork and hand carving, refurbishing vintage hardware, plaster repair and more.

Representatives from the Citizens Utility Board will be available with tips on saving money on utility bills, CHI 311 will provide information on Chicago’s expanded 311 service and the new easy-to-use 311 app, and the Chicago Metropolitan Water Reclamation District will offer a variety of service information and give away 100 free tree saplings.

BAPA Home Expo admission and presentations are free. The Expo is open 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Beverly/Morgan Park Home Tour

This year’s Beverly/Morgan Park Home Tour takes a look at how savvy renovations, inspired decorating, new construction and down-to-the studs restoration add an exciting variety to traditional architectural designs in the historic Beverly/Morgan Park community.

The Home Tour begins at Bethany Union Church, 1750 W. 103rd St. The sanctuary was designed by noted architect Raymond M. Hood soon after he won the contest to design the Chicago Tribune Tower, and erected in 1926. It features carefully preserved Norman Gothic details and as well as a cloister Garth paved with Hudson River blue stone and featuring an open-air stone pulpit. Founded in 1872, Bethany Union Church will also be sharing artifacts and information about it’s long and interesting local history.

Homes being showcased on the tour are:

A stunning home built just ten years ago and designed with an English Eclectic influence that fits beautifully into the vintage character of the surrounding neighborhood. Inside the house is a spectacular combination of vintage amenities, contemporary lifestyle and carefully incorporated elements that make the house handicapped accessible to accommodate the needs of aging parents. From the basement party room with its expansive bar and sparkling disco ball to the perfect-for-entertaining open floor plan kitchen and family room to the fully furnished patio, this house was designed with welcome in mind. Experiences in this house include the Calumet Paint/Benjamin Moore Interior Paint Showcase and a beverage sampling in the back yard.

A handsome French Eclectic home designed by Murray Hetherington and built in 1935 on a secluded lot nestled at the edge of the forest preserves. The home offers a seamless meshing of original construction and renovation projects including a spacious addition with design-perfect details that incorporate original exterior brick and windows that match the unique windows in the front of the house that are protected as historic. Artwork throughout the house has been collected on family vacations and selected for its beauty, diverse media and styles, and as reminders of world travels. Experiences in this house include plein air painting by artist Judie Anderson.

A charming Mediterranean Revival with a brand new, custom-designed kitchen that combines function with contemporary beauty. This welcoming home is filled with elements including lovely casement windows and woodwork, decorating that uses a rich and warm palette of colors, and extensive collections of African American art and literature. Experiences in this house include tastings from guest chefs.

A stately North Beverly Georgian Revival with a warm and welcoming traditional appeal carried through from the original home into a stunning two-story addition. Be prepared to “ooh” and “aah” as every room features styles and decorating that make it special: the gorgeous fireplace in the sunken living room, the elegant dining room with its faux painting; the spacious master suite with walk in closet and spa bath, the comfortable family room that opens into a three-season room; even the cozy TV-room for two! Experiences at this house include beverage tastings on the deck.

A special feature of the Home Tour is the Longwood Drive historic home once owned by Paul Harris, founder of Rotary International, the global organization dedicated to taking action on some of the world’s most persistent issues. The house is currently undergoing a cellar-to-rooftop restoration by Rotary, bringing it back to what it was like when Harris lived there in the 1940s. Members of the Rotary Club will act as guides, offering insights into the home’s fascinating history and its amazing transformation back in time. Experiences include a candy tasting.

Home Tour attendees will get a chance to walk through each of these outstanding sites for an up-close look at the details of design, decorating, art collections and lifestyle that make each of them a unique example of gracious living in Beverly/Morgan Park – the Village in the City.

Many thanks to Home Tour sponsors including Mike Haggerty Buick-GMC-Volkswagen, Beverly Bank, Calumet Paint and Wallpaper, Beverly Hills Animal Hospital, Southtown Health Foods, County Fair Foods, PRS professional real estate services, Berkshire Hathaway Home Services – Biros Real Estate, Benjamin Moore Paint, Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage, Solution 3 Graphics, Pacor Mortgage, Green Apple Cleaning, 19th Ward Youth Foundation, The Beverly Review, Smith Village, Horse Thief Hollow, Open Outcry Brewing Co., Sweet Freaks, The Blossom Boys, Steuber Florist & Greenhouse, RMH Interiors + Design, The Music Scene, Nine-One-One BBQ Shack and Chef Alvin Green.

For more than four decades, BAPA’s Beverly/Morgan Park Home Tour has been opening the doors to some of the neighborhood’s most remarkable private residences. Home Tour tickets are $30 in advance and available at Steuber Florist, 2654 W. 111th St., The Blossom Boys, 1810 W. 103rd St., Sweet Freaks, 9927 S. Wood St., and County Fair, 10800 S. Western (cash or checks only) or online at www.bapa.org. The price increases to $35 on the day of the tour. Home Tour locations are open from 12 to 5 p.m. All tours are self-guided and must begin by 3 p.m.

Information about the BAPA Home Expo and or Beverly/Morgan Park Home Tour contact BAPA, 773-233-3100 or bapa@bapa.org,

Run, Walk, Trot or Cheer 

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BAPA Hosts 42nd Annual Ridge Run on Memorial Day 

Expect some new challenges and fun changes at BAPA’s 42nd Annual Ridge Run on Mon., May 27. The race course has been recertified and will take 10K runners on a slightly different route, and the festival will offer new vendors and kid-friendly activities.  

“We keep the event fresh and exciting for participants, but some things will never change for the Ridge Run,” said BAPA Executive Director Susan Flood. “The spirits of the runners will always be lifted by cheers from the spectators and beauty of our neighborhood, and participants will always be challenged by making it up Chicago’s highest hill.” 

The community’s signature event takes runners, walkers and marchers through the historic district to run the 10K, 5K and Youth Mile Ridge Runs followed by the Beverly Hills/Morgan Park/Mount Greenwood Memorial Day Parade down Longwood Drive. 

“The Ridge Run is Chicago’s favorite neighborhood race because it expresses such a strong sense of community,” Flood said. “The cheering spectators all along the route are neighbors who have become friends and friends who have become family. It’s a symbol of belonging that, like the race, runs through the heart of our neighborhood.” 

The presenting sponsor of the Ridge Run is Little Company of Mary Hospital and Health Care Centers (LCMH), which generously provides the day’s health necessities including the Ridge Run doctor and first aid tent, as well as with general health information.  

A Catholic, not-for-profit hospital, LCMH been a vital health resource for the community for nearly 90 years. LCMH continues to achieve accolades for quality through its revolutionary medical technologies and services both at its home and satellite locations and was recently named among best hospitals by U.S. News and World Report. 

Presenting sponsor of the parade is the Road Home Program Center for Veterans and their Families at Rush University Medical Center (find more information on page ).  

Start Training Now! 

April is the time to get in the full swing of training for the Ridge Run. If you’ve never run before, check out the new 5K training at Running Excels, 10328 S. Western (read more on page __.) 

Students and families at local schools are also training to run as teams and compete for the 2019 school team trophy presented by BAPA. School teams are supervised by volunteers and training guides developed by Jenny Harkins of Treadfit Beverly are available for free from BAPA, contact Gary Jenkins, gjenkins@bapa.org.  

Registration 

Ridge Run registration continues until race day for participants signing up for the 10K run, 5K run or untimed walk, Ridge Run Challenge 5K and 10K, and, for kids up to age 12, the untimed Youth Mile. (The wee ones can compete in the Tot Trot in the kids’ zone).  Register by May 1 to guarantee getting your Ridge Run t-shirt. Sign up online until May 20 at www.bapa.org, then sign-up and pick up race packets through May 26 (see www.bapa.org for registration schedule). Fees increase for race-day registration.  

Registration for participating in the Memorial Day Parade continues through May 20. Applications are available online at www.bapa.org  on the Ridge Run page or you can request a paper application by emailing bapa@bapa.org.  

Race Day 

The Ridge Run begins with the 10K at 8 a.m. followed by the Youth Mile at 8:10 a.m. The Memorial Day Ceremony begins at 9 a.m. in Ridge Park and the 5K run and walk starts at 9:30 a.m.  

Make your way or stay on Longwood Drive once the 5K runners pass by! The Memorial Day Parade steps off immediately following the last runner at about 10:30 a.m., starting from 110th and Longwood Drive and proceeding north to Ridge Park.  

Post-race festivities at Ridge Park feature runner awards, food trucks and children’s activities.  

Be a Ridge Run Volunteer 

BAPA’s neighborhood race travels through the heart of our community, and we need volunteers to help as course marshals at selected corners to make sure runners stay on the route, at aid stations where they hand out water and at Ridge Park. Volunteers get a great volunteer t-shirt. Interested? If you have questions, call BAPA, 773-233-3100.Sign up to volunteer at www.bapa,org on the Ridge Run page.   

 

Thank You Sponsors  

Ridge Run sponsors help to ensure the success of the event, and sponsorships are still available; for information contact Anna Fratto, 773-233-3100 or afratto@bapa.org.  

Thank you to Little Company of Mary Hospital, Mike Haggerty Buick GMC Volkswagen of Oak Lawn, Beverly Bank, Road Home Program, Southtown Health Foods, CIBC, County Fair, 19th Ward Youth Foundation, Marquette Bank, Smith Village, Whole Foods, ExcellCare Physical Therapy, Berkshire Hathaway Home Services – Biros Real Estate, Beverly Hills Animal Hospital, Home Run Inn, Chicago Park District, 670 Score Sports Radio, State Farm Agent John Harrell, IMPACT Physical Therapy, Chicago Recovery Room, Calabria Imports, Running Excels, The Beverly Review and Beverly Records.  

For more information about participating in or volunteering for the Ridge Run or Memorial Day Parade, contact the Beverly Area Planning Association, 773-233-3100, bapa@bapa.org or www.bapa.org. 

 

 

 

 

Raise a Pint on the Rooftop

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Go above the crowd for eats, beats, brews and an exclusive birds-eye view of the South Side Irish St. Patrick’s Day Parade at O’Brews and Views, BAPA’s rooftop parade viewing  party, Sun., Mar. 17, 10:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m., Open Outcry Brewing Co., 10934 S. Western.

Join us for live Irish music by Bohola, food, 2 complimentary drinks plus drink specials, and the best views along the parade route. 21 and over only. Tickets $75 for BAPA members or $85 for non-members and available starting Feb. 1 at https://www.eventbrite.com/e/south-side-irish-parade-rooftop-viewing-party-tickets-54925972061

COMPASS – Jeni Nelson Real Estate is our sponsor.

Thank You Neighbors!

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Once again, our generous Beverly/Morgan Park neighbors have come through to support BAPA and our community. Donations reached, then exceeded, the $25,000 challenge for a matching grant from the Richard H. Driehaus Charitable Lead Trust.

“The tremendous response from our community is so gratifying,” said BAPA Executive Director Susan Flood. “Our mail box and inbox were filled with not just donations, but messages wishing BAPA success and thanking us for our work.”

Originally offered as a Giving Tuesday challenge, the grant deadline was extended to Dec. 31. “So many neighbors stepped up to the challenge right away in November, but the early deadline caught us a little short,” Flood explained. “The extension brought about a great response! The Driehaus Trust will double the value of contributions from our community and greatly enhance BAPA’s 2019 programs.”

This generous matching grant from the Richard H. Driehaus Charitable Lead Trust enables BAPA to expand its grassroots work in the community. In 2019, BAPA will be taking a special focus on protecting and promoting our historic neighborhood, beautifying important community spaces, attracting new, exciting business investments, strengthening local schools, creating initiatives to welcome new homeowners to the community, refreshing our mission-based special events to become even better at serving our community, but also in attracting new visitors to experience our Village in the City, and developing strategies to help our neighbors age safely and happily in the homes they love.

BAPA relies on financial support from neighbors who understand our mission to keep Beverly/Morgan Park strong and beautiful. When our neighbors support BAPA with such generosity, it affirms the important role BAPA plays in our community.

BAPA leaders and staff look forward to 2019 and exciting new opportunities to serve our neighbors.

Everyone who supported BAPA with membership donations in 2018 will be recognized in the February issue of The Villager. All donations are greatly appreciated!

BAPA/Driehaus Matching Grant Deadline Extended to Dec. 31

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The deadline has been extended for BAPA’s challenge grant from the Richard H. Driehaus Charitable Lead Trust.  All donations to BAPA made by Dec. 31, 2018 will be matched dollar for dollar, doubling the value of contributions.

“It’s a very exciting time in Beverly/Morgan Park, with so many young families, expanding cultural events and unique new businesses,” said BAPA Executive Director Susan Flood, With this kind of endorsement, BAPA is poised to act on this momentum and take this incredible neighborhood to the next level. “There’s no stronger endorsement of our bright future than when someone like Richard Driehaus decides to give with such generosity.”

The matching grant was announced at the beginning of November and has elicited an outstanding response from the community. The extension of the deadline underscores the importance of this opportunity to help BAPA make its resources go twice as far.

BAPA has a lot of work to do, and these critical dollars will move forward:

  • BAPA’s new Housing and Historic Preservation Committee working on preserving our neighborhood homes, buildings and Metra Stations.
  • Cleanup and beautification of important community spaces.
  • Focus on supporting our growing business community and attracting new, exciting business investment.
  • Continuing the work of BAPA’s Education Committee in strengthening local schools and fostering meaningful opportunities for public and private school students, families and staff connection.
  • The creation of initiatives to welcome new homeowners to the community, and provide the information they need to become active in our neighborhood, strengthening our community bonds: schools, churches, the arts, charitable and civic organizations
  • Commitment to refresh and reinvigorate our mission-based special events to become even better at serving our community, but also in attracting new visitors to experience our Village in the City
  • Develop responsive initiatives to help our neighbors age safely and happily in the homes they love.

“The Driehaus Trust generally only supports organizations that are successful in carrying out their missions in a meaningful manner,” said Thomas Chomicz, BAPA Vice President, emphasizing the importance of the gift as an affirmation of BAPA’s success in serving the Beverly/Morgan Park community.

Born and raised in Chicago, Richard H. Driehaus has longtime ties to our area, and has supported local organizations including St. Margaret of Scotland Church and Saint Xavier University with transformative gifts. His philanthropic and community service-oriented projects support organizations throughout Chicago, as well as nationally and internationally. Gifts to BAPA have strengthened programs in historic/architectural preservation as well as community-building initiatives.

Mr. Driehaus began his successful career in 1968, earning recognition for his business skill and performance. In 1982 he founded Driehaus Capital Management LLC. His philanthropic work supports education, historic preservation, humanistic values, economic opportunity initiatives that benefit people living in poverty, financial literacy, the built environment, and the arts.

In recognition of his outstanding accomplishments and commitment to philanthropy and humanitarianism, Mr. Driehaus has received numerous local, national and international awards and honors.

This generous matching grant from the Richard H. Driehaus Charitable Lead Trust will enable BAPA to expand its grassroots work in the community. BAPA has been busy working on beautification projects that target public spaces, reinvigorating important programs that support neighborhood initiatives, strengthening services to local businesses, invigorating community partnerships and more.

Whether you’re a current BAPA member, planning to renew your annual membership or a first-time member, BAPA leaders hope you can find a little extra in your budget now that your monetary contribution will go twice as far!  Membership donations qualify for the match.

“BAPA relies on financial support from neighbors who understand our mission to keep Beverly/Morgan Park strong and beautiful,” Flood said. “An important aspect of this grant opportunity is the positive reflection of BAPA’s longstanding work and of our neighborhood. It is a tremendous affirmation of BAPA’s vital role in our community.”

The residents and businesses in Beverly/Morgan Park have a long history of supporting BAPA’s work. It is hoped that neighbors who have not yet become BAPA members will view this grant as an opportunity to show their confidence in BAPA’s work and double the impact of their dollars.

BAPA is a 501 (c) 3 not-for-profit organization and gifts are tax deductible to the extent allowed by law.

To become a member or make a donation, please use the envelope enclosed in this issue of The Villager or visit www.bapa.org where it’s fast and easy to sign up online at www.bapa.org.

If you need more information about BAPA, please call Susan Flood, 773-233-3100. She is eager to make time to talk about all the wonderful work being accomplished in our community.

A Challenge from the Driehaus Trust

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BAPA has been awarded a challenge grant from the Richard H. Driehaus Charitable Lead Trust that will match donations dollar for dollar, doubling the value of contributions received by #Giving Tuesday, Nov. 27, 2018. 

Whether you’re a current BAPA member, planning to renew your annual membership or a first-time member, we hope you can find a little extra in your budget now that your monetary contribution will go twice as far!   

“The Driehaus Trust generally only supports organizations that are successful in carrying out their missions in a meaningful manner,” said Thomas Chomicz, BAPA Vice President. “The Driehaus grant not only provides funds to support BAPA, but recognizes BAPA’s success in serving the Beverly/Morgan Park community.” 

This generous matching grant from the Richard H. Driehaus Charitable Lead Trust will enable BAPA to expand its grassroots work in the community. BAPA has been busy working on beautification projects that target public spaces, reinvigorating important programs that support neighborhood schools, strengthening services to local businesses, reactivating community partnerships and more.   

BAPA relies on financial support from neighbors who understand our mission to keep Beverly/Morgan Park strong and beautiful. But an important aspect of this grant opportunity is the positive reflection of BAPA’s longstanding work and of our neighborhood. 

“This grant is a validation of BAPA’s leadership and work,” said BAPA Executive Director Susan Flood. “It is tremendous affirmation of BAPA’s vital role in our community.” 

The residents and businesses in Beverly/Morgan Park have a long history of supporting BAPA’s work, and we are hoping that neighbors who have not yet become members will view this grant as an opportunity to show their confidence in BAPA’s work and double the impact of their dollars. 

BAPA is a 501 (c) 3 not0for-profit organization and gifts are tax deductible to the extent allowed by law.  

Please use the membership envelope enclosed in this issue of The Villager or visit bapa.org/give where it’s fast and easy to sign up online.  

If you need more information about BAPA and our work, please feel free to call Susan Flood, 773-233-3100 ext. 207. She is eager to make time to talk about all the wonderful work being accomplished on behalf of our community. 

See What’s Inside Our Iconic Buildings: Open House Chicago Architecture Tour Comes to Beverly/Morgan Park Oct. 13 & 14

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On the second weekend of October, more than 250 of Chicago’s most intriguing buildings will open their doors for the Chicago Architecture Center’s (CAC) annual Open House Chicago (OHC) tour. For the first time, Beverly/Morgan Park sites are included in this free, behind-the-scenes event.  

One of the world’s largest architecture festivals, Open House Chicago is a free, two-day public event taking place Sat., Oct. 13 and Sun., Oct. 14, with most sites open 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. both days.   

“Open House Chicago gives Chicagoans the rare opportunity to discover hidden gems in architecturally significant buildings all across the city,” said Lynn Osmond, President and CEO of the CAC. “But attendees are discovering not only what is near their homes, they are exploring new neighborhoods across town and in the process changing preconceived notions about their neighborhoods.” 

The Beverly Area Planning Association and 19th Ward office worked with OHC planners to identify Beverly/Morgan Park locations for this year’s event.  

“We are thrilled that people from all over Chicagoland will have a chance to get an inside look at the diverse architecture and historic buildings that make Beverly/Morgan Park so amazing,” said BAPA Executive Director Susan Flood. “Being on Open House Chicago’s map has the potential to bring more than a thousand new visitors to our neighborhood. BAPA is proud to be a partner in this citywide event.”  

Persons interested in OHC can pick up a program that details all the citywide locations at any of the participating sites.  

Neighborhood sites and OHS touring hours: 

Givins Castle, 10244 S. Longwood Dr., Chicago’s most famous castle, built 1887 by real estate Robert C. Givins as an extravagant private residence. Open Sat., 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sun., 1 to 5 p.m.  

Vanderpoel Art Association Gallery, Ridge Park, 9625 S. Longwood Dr., features an impressive collection of 19th and 20th century art including many pieces that depict Chicago scenes. An exhibit of works by the Chicago Society of Artists will be on display during OHC. Open Sat., 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. and Sun., 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. 

Optimo, 1700 W. 95th St., the headquarters and production facility for Chicago’s only custom maker of men’s hats, located in a century-old firehouse renovated by Skidmore, Owings & Merrill, is a working museum of hatmaking. Open Sat., 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.  

Driscoll-Graver House, 10621 S. Seeley, designed by John T. Hetherington in the Tudor Revival style and built in 1922, the house is home to Ridge Historical Society. Open Sat. and Sun., 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.  

Wild Blossom Meadery & Winery, 9030 S. Hermitage, a crafty adaptive reuse of an industrial building is home to Chicago’s first meadery and winery. Open Sat., 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Sun., 1 to 5 p.m. 

Ingersoll Blackwelder House, 10910 S. Prospect, an elegant Victorian home built in two stages beginning in 1874, and home to several historic community leaders. Currently owned by physicists, the house will showcase three quark-inspired outdoor sculptures by Guy J. Ballaver during OHC. Open Sat. and Sun., 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. 

Morgan Park Academy Alumni Hall, 2153 W. 111th St., a stately neo-Gothic building built in 1927 and showcasing dramatic spaces that include the historic library with a vaulted ceiling, grand fireplace and wrap-around mezzanine. Open Sat. and Sun., 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. 

Morgan Park United Methodist Church, 11030 S. Longwood Dr., designed by village architect H.H. Waterman and built in 1913, the Prairie Style church features Art Nouveau windows, curving pews and a stained glass dome. Open Sat., 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sun., 1 to 5 p.m. 

Wintrust is the presenting sponsor of Open House Chicago.   

BAPA Events Build Community Spirit, Attract New Neighbors

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Although area residents best know the Beverly Area Planning Association (BAPA) for our events, they don’t always realize that events are organized for purposes that align with the organization’s mission to sustain and enhance the Beverly/Morgan Park neighborhood.  

The Beverly/Morgan Park Home Tour showcases beautiful homes to potential home buyers; the Ridge Run and Memorial Day Parade bring thousands of athletes and spectators to the historic district to show off the community’s rich architecture and outstanding lifestyle; and events like Family Fun Nights and the Beverly Hills Cycling Classic/Bikes and Brews Festival are designed to boost community connection.    

BAPA is involved with five upcoming events that are designed to bring customers to neighborhood commercial strips and foster shopping locally and to show off our spectacular architecture.  

Sip and Shop #2 

BAPA will be collaborating with the 19th Ward Office and Morgan Park Beverly Hills Business Association to present Sip n’ Shop Girls Night Out on Thurs., Sept. 20. Businesses in the train station districts at 99th and 103rd Streets will participate in the event that features special sales, beverage and food tastings, demonstrations and more from 6 to 9 p.m., and a BYOB after party from 9 to 11 p.m.  Admission of $10 in advance or $15 at the event covers the goodies and giveaways, and the first 250 people to sign up will get a free wine tote. Check in is at Calabria Imports, 1905 W. 103rd St., 6 to 8 p.m. 

Stores committed to participate include Belle Up, Beverly Barre, Beverly Yoga Center, B Sides Coffee, Cakewalk Chicago/Markland Hubbard, Capsule, Heritage Gallery & Gifts, New Beginning Alterations, Ohana Ice, RMH Design, Root, Sweet Freaks, The Blossom Boys, Turkey and Tranquility Salon. Buy tickets online at www.bapa.org.  

Fall Fest on 95th Street 

On Sat., Oct. 6, BAPA will team up with the 95th Street Business Association and 19th Ward Office to host Fall Fest on 95th Street. Participants will gather in the parking lot at Barraco’s, 2105 W. 95th St., for activities and entertainment. Televisions will be tuned to college games.  

Open House Chicago 

For the first time, Beverly/Morgan Park will be featured on the Chicago Architecture Center’s Open House Chicago, Sat., Oct. 13 and Sun., Oct. 14. Several neighborhood spots will be among more than 300 locations open for this popular – and free — city-wide event. Locations, which are not widely open to the public, are chosen for their architectural importance, historic value and outstanding interest. Among the neighborhood locations where visitors will get behind-the-scenes tours are the Optimo Hat Co., Morgan Park Academy Alumni Hall, The Castle, Wild Blossom Meadery and several more. 

BAPA and the 19th Ward Office are working with Open House Chicago to make sure the neighborhood is ready to welcome 1,000 or more guests from throughout Chicagoland for the two-day event. Area residents can help out as volunteers at the neighborhood locations. For information on how to volunteer and volunteer benefits, visit openhousechicago.org/volunteer.  

Tap Into BAPA 

Tap Into BAPA, our popular pub crawl, returns to Western Avenue on Sat., Nov. 10, starting at 3 p.m. Patrons age 21 and over will receive music, food and giveaways with their ticket, and drink specials for purchase at each location. Tickets are $25 in advance at www.bapa.org or $30 on the night of the event. Join in at any location for an evening filled with community spirit.  

Holiday Cookie Crawl  

BAPA invites area families to sweeten up the spirit of the season at the 3rd Annual Holiday Cookie Crawl on Sat., Dec. 8. Just purchase a souvenir tin from BAPA, then spend the afternoon filling it with a variety of cookies and treats from participating businesses. Make sure you take time to shop where you stop, and support the businesses that support our community.  

Keep up with event details at www.bapa.org, in The Villager or with The Villager Weekly Report enews. Info: 773-233-3100 or bapa@bapa.org. Founded in 1947, BAPA is a community-based not-for-profit organization located at 1987 W. 111th St. and supported in part by donations from area residents and businesses.  

Village Viewpoint

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By Susan Flood, BAPA Executive Director 

Like any good Chicagoan I am absolutely thrilled when summertime rolls around.  I often find myself wondering if those who live in warm climates ever experience the day after day euphoria we feel when we open our front doors on summer days.      

At BAPA, summer comes with some kind of event to produce almost weekly: Home Tour, Ridge Run and Memorial Day Parade, weekly Family Fun Nights and Tech Tuesdays. Coming up next is the Beverly Hills Cycling Classic.   

While these events keep the BAPA staff on our toes for a few months, they are not possible without the time, energy and commitment of our neighborhood partners. The process is a lot like leading an orchestra for a performance piece with BAPA as the conductor.  The music happens when everybody comes together with their talent and hard work, sitting alongside friends and neighbors, pursuing the common goal of offering sheer enjoyment to all who come out to join us.   

Our local restaurants come out of their kitchens to offer their best in picnic style foods, beverages and treats.  The Alderman’s staff and the police from our 22nd District help in too many ways to count.  The Ridge Run wouldn’t be possible without Chicago Park District’s Ridge Park and the big-hearted hard-working Park District staff.   

We showcase our neighbors who have talent (and there are so many) to entertain us with music, art or children’s activities.  Our local businesses sponsor the events so we can afford to put them on, and join us onsite to meet residents and talk about what they have to offer.   

This year our 16th Beverly Hills Cycling Classic and Bikes and Brews Festival will be possible thanks to St. Barnabas parish joining us as a new festival partner following the closing last year of Beacon Therapeutic School.  The new St. Barnabas location makes the event more exciting than ever, with a challenging new race course and sprawling festival grounds in the St. Barnabas parking lot. I can practically hear the music now!   

And of course, all of you are important partners. 

Neighbors jump in to volunteer for tasks like selling tickets, pouring drinks, serving as course marshals or helping set up tables or tents.   

Watching everyone coming together takes us all to a new height of connection.  Like individual instruments, we can all make music as a solo, but when we’re all working together the result is an experience that transforms the day.  As a team, we create memories, make new friends and accomplish something wonderful. And it’s all in our own backyard.   

I can tell you, from where BAPA stands as conductor, our community orchestra is nothing short of extraordinary.