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IN THIS ISSUE
June Events
July Highlight
Fitness
Call Us. Join Us!
Village Sponsors

Edited by
Laurel Baer 
Produced by
Lauren Tucker


VILLAGE PROGRAMS 

 

Register for these programs by calling 773.248.8700 or 

 

Village Members receive registration priority.

 

Payment confirms your registration and is due in advance.


Let the Village office know if you need a ride!    

  

As the Village grows, from time to time events with limited attendance are fully subscribed with a waiting list. If you wish to participate in any event, please sign up early. You can do so by calling the office at 773.248.8700 or e-mailing celebrate@thevillagechicago.org.


SUGGESTION BOX  
The Village Chicago welcomes any comments, suggestions, or concerns that our members have. 

Please  click here to fill out our form to give the Village office your feedback. Thank you!
 JUNE EVENTS

Thursday Memoir Writing 
with Beth Finke
Thursdays, ongoing.
June 1 - July 27
(no class July 6)
2:00-3:30 PM
Wait list only.

&

Monday Memoir Writing 
with Beth Finke
Mondays, ongoing.
May 1 - June 26
(no class May 29 - Memorial Day)
2:00-3:30 PM
Members - $60 for the series & g uests - $90 for the series (for Monday Memoir only)
Participants write short pieces and share their writing on various topics, exploring events in their lives. Sessions are led by Village member Beth Finke, an award-winning author, teacher, journalist, and NPR commentator.
Wait list only.

Village 8th Anniversary Celebration & Benefit: 
Magic, Live!
Monday, June 5
5:00 PM Reception and Silent Auction
6:45-8:00 PM Performance
Galleria Marchetti 
(825 W. Erie)
Members-$60 & guests-$70
All proceeds will benefit The Village Chicago. David Parr and Joe Diamond present classic conjuring in the Windy City style, with an emphasis on audience participation and mind-boggling sleight of hand. As the Chicago Reader put it, "This is an evening that shows magic to its best advantage, up close and personal." Raffle with four chances to win! 

Great Books, 
Great Conversations
Tuesday, June 6
7:00-8:30 PM
Hosts: Jim and Kathy Zartman
(Belden and Halsted)
Members only-free
The reading for the Monday group (meeting on a Tuesday this month) will be Leo Tolstoy,  The Death of Ivan Ilyich

Great Books, 
Great Conversations
Wednesday, June 7
7:00-8:30 PM
Hosts: Pam & Mel Washburn
(Lakeview and Fullerton)
Members only-free
The reading for the Wednesday group will be Homer, 
The Iliad (Book 9 thru end - pp. 176-247).

Wine and Cheese for Prospective Members
Thursday, June 8
5:30-7:00 PM
Hosts: Pam & Mel Washburn
(Lakeview and Fullerton)
This informal wine and cheese gathering for prospective members provides an opportunity to learn more about Village life as well as the chance to meet Village Founding Executive Director, Dianne Campbell.

Book Launch: Writing Out Loud by Beth Finke
Friday, June 9
2:30 PM - 4:00 PM
Women's Athletic Club
The Drawing Room 
(626  N. Michigan Ave.)
Members-$12 & guests-$15
J oin us for an exclusive launch of popular Village Memoir Writing teacher Beth Finke's new book, Writing out Loud, including essays by some Village members. Beth, an award-winning author, teacher, journalist, and NPR commentator, will share excerpts of the book and host a discussion with attendees. Copies of the book will be available for sale at a one-time special price. Light refreshments will be served. 
Reservation Deadline: June 1.

Wildflower Walk and Talk
Saturday, June 10
10:00-11:30 AM
Meet at the North Pond Café 
(2610 N. Cannon)
Members & guests-free
Join for a fabulous insider view of wildflowers, their use, their aromas, and their history. The tour will be lead by Village member, Janet Swenson. Please note that this walking tour is not fully accessible. This tour will be held outside, so please check the weather forecast and dress appropriately! 
Reservation deadline: June 3.

Apple Store Tutorial: 
Photo Walk
Sunday, June 11
8:30-10:00 AM
Apple Store-Lincoln Park
(801 W. North Ave.)
Members-free & guests-$10
Join us for this creative class! We will start at the Lincoln Park Apple Store and go for a short walk through the neighborhood - working on some tips, tricks and techniques for taking good pictures in real time with your phone. Attendees are encouraged to bring their own devices to the store - the store does not provide loaners for the session. Please be sure to know your Apple ID Username and Password!  Class will be held rain or shine. Please arrive on time so that the group can depart from the store together.
A few spots left!

Tiny Theatre: Relativity
Sunday, June 11
2:30 PM Performance
Northlight Theatre
(9501 Skokie Blvd.)
Members-$44 & guests-$50
For several years, Village members and friends have been exploring Chicago's abundant small theater offerings. Join us for the next production,  Relativity. This drama features actor Mike Nussbaum as Albert Einstein, who reveals shocking family secrets. Self-hosted dinner at Jameson's Char House to follow.
Wait list only.

Banjo Night!
Monday, June 12
7:00-9:00 PM
Chief O'Neill's 
(3471 N. Elston)
Members & guests-free
Members John Buenz and Jack Hartray and the Windy City Jammers, a merry band of musicians, play great classic hits, for an evening of good cheer. 
Self-hosted dinner.

Women's Discussion Group: How Does Your Vote Count?
Tuesday, June 13
10:30 AM-12:00 PM
Chicago History Museum
The Holleb Learning Center
(1601 N. Clark)
Members only-free
Village member, Joellen Satterlee, a law professor whose career focused on constitutional law, will discuss the concept of "one person, one vote", and the many factors that contribute to the voting landscape today, including redistricting, gerrymandering, the census and the electoral college. We are so pleased to have Joellen's expertise and wealth of knowledge on this current and very important national issue. All political points of view and party affiliations are welcome. 

Men's Discussion Group: Changing Chicago River and Lake Front: from Fort Dearborn, through Captian Streeter, to Marina City
Wednesday, June 14
11:00 AM-12:30 PM
Chicago History Museum
(1601 N. Clark)
Members and guests-free
Since the 1803 construction of Fort Dearborn the Chicago River has seen many changes. From a sluggish stream it became a major world port with ships lining both banks of the enlarged waterway. Near the river mouth "Captain" Street's boat ran ashore and caused a gradual reconfiguration of the shoreline. Eventually the Port of Chicago was relocated to lake Calumet and the bulk of commercial shipping moved there. Post World War II recovery saw the growth of the suburbs and the subsequent economic decline of the center city. The 1959 construction of Marina City was, in part, an attempt to slow central business district decline.  

Uber & Lyft Tutorial
Saturday, June 17
2:30 PM-4:00 PM
Village Office
(2502 N. Clark St.)
Members-free & guests-$10
Rideshare applications for smartphones are becoming increasingly popular and convenient ways for people to get around. Bring your questions and concerns regarding the apps and you will be given a tutorial on how to use them. Note: we ask that participants download each of the apps onto their smartphones ahead of time. If you need assistance in doing this, please call the Village office. 
Wait list only.

Silver Screenings: 
Something Wild
Sunday, June 18
11:00 AM-1:00 PM
The Admiral at the Lake 
(929 W. Foster)
Members & guests-free
Silver Screenings is a monthly film viewing and discussion group that meets in the very comfortable screening room at the Admiral at the Lake. This month, join us for  Jonathan Demme's Something Wild s tarring Melanie Griffith, Jeff Daniels and Ray Liotta. We will watch a restored, high definition digital transfer on Blu-ray disc that was personally supervised by the film's cinematographer, Tak Fujimoto, and approved by director Jonathan Demme. You do not want to miss it.

Scrabble
Sunday, June 18
2:00-4:30 PM
Host: Mary Jo Field
(Kingsbury and Grand)
Members only-free
Join this fun and friendly word game. Both novice and skilled players are welcome and invited to bring a snack to share.
Reservation deadline: June 16.

Rep. Sara Feigenholtz and Screening of 
A Simple Piece of Paper
Monday, June 19
6:30-8:00 PM
Center of Halsted
(Hoover-Leppen Theatre)
(3656 N. Halsted)
Members & guests-free
What happens when a state provides adopted citizens access to their original birth certificates? Join us to hear how Rep. Sara Feigenholtz and a Village member were personally affected by the law and for a screening of the documentary  A Simple Piece of Paper, which examines the impact of the release of these records, following a handful of the first people to access their record. Their heartwarming - and heartwrenching - stories provoke a new question: what would have happened if the state of Illinois had been able to do this sooner. Discussion will follow.  

Screening: Balance and Fall Prevention
Tuesday, June 20
10:00 AM-2:00 PM
Rush University Medical Center-Atrium Building, 4th Floor Lobby (1650 W. Harrison St.) 
Members and guests-free
Join Village Strategic Partner, Rush University Medical Center, for this Rush Generations Screening. An expert will assess your balance and give you personalized tips for preventing falls during a 15-minute session between the hours of 10:00 AM and 2:00 PM. Appointments are currently completely booked, but Rush will take some walk-ins. To inquire about availability for a walk-in appointment, please contact Rush directly at 800.757.0202.
 
Chicago Symphony Orchestra Rehearsal
Wednesday, June 21
1:30PM - 3:30 PM
Orchestra Hall
(220 S. Michigan Ave.)
Members only-free
Riccardo Muti will conduct at this open rehearsal, featuring the Chicago Symphony Chorus, the Chicago Children's Choir and music by Verdi and Puccini.

Life 3.0 Presents Cooking Elegantly for 1 or 2: Easy Entrees & Special Sides
Monday, June 26
6:30 - 8:30 PM
Host: Karen Terry
(N. McClurg Ct. & 
E. North Water St.)
Members-$35 & guests-$45
This class will focus on how to make several delicious entrees at one time, reasonably quickly, that can be frozen for future use. This will include education about the ingredients, the techniques involved, and
 efficient preparation. 
Reservation deadline: June 12 - only a few spots left!

Let's Go Out! Internet Resources to Help Plan a Trip or Dinner and a Show
Wednesday, June 28
10:30 AM-12:00 PM
Village Office
(2502 N. Clark St.)
Members-$10 & guests-$15
Summer is upon us, and it is time to plan some fun! Join us for an enjoyable and informative session on internet resources for planning your next trip or night on the town. We'll identify resources and will access helpful information using an easy two-step process. Learn to use the web to organize and book your next outing.

Aging with Pride
Wednesday, June 28
1:00-3:00 PM
Rush University Medical Center - Searle Conference Center, Billings-Herrick Conference Room
(1725 W. Harrison St., 5th Floor)
Members & guests-free
Join Village Strategic Partner, Rush University Medical Center, for this Rush Generations lecture. In celebration of LGBTQ Pride Month, join us to learn how to access affirming healthcare and how to be an effective advocate within your care team. Learn about initiatives Rush is doing to improve healthcare for Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, and Queer (LGBTQ) individuals, and learn about relevant community resources specifically tailored to the LGBTQ older adult community.
Reservation deadline: June 21.

Book Discussion: A Queer History of the United States by Michael Bronski
Thursday, June 29
6:00-7:30 PM
Host: Bill Gordon
(Racine and Dickens)
Members & guests-free
The final of three opportunities to join in on a discussion of the book  A Queer History of the United States by Michael Bronski.  An award- winning book on the history of the U.S which weaves "queer" through the history of this nation. This book, according to one critic, "demonstrates with wit, insight, and impeccable scholarship that queer lives ARE, and always have been, woven into the very fabric of this country."


FAVORITE PASTIME GROUPS FOR VILLAGE MEMBERS
Basic Meditation 
Join this group, hosted by Ellen Stone Belic, to learn and practice basic meditation techniques. This is a great opportunity to start or renew your practice - and to experience the joy and multitude of benefits of meditation. The next session will be led by Sandra Kirmeyer on Saturday, June 3. Arrive at 9:45 AM for setup, meditation is from 10:00 - 11:00 AM. If you would like to attend or receive notices of upcoming sessions, e-mail Ellen at ellen@stonebelic.com

 *** 
Bridge 
This group regularly meets on Wednesdays from 10:00 AM to 1:00 PM in members' homes, usually with three tables. The next meeting will be hosted by Charlotte Brauer on June 7. If you are interested in joining, please contact Diana Phillps at  dsphillips44@gmail.com

 *** 
Just Restaurants 
We are fortunate to live in one of the world's great food cities and our vibrant restaurant group takes advantage of all there is on offer. From BYOB to BBQ, French to fusion, seafood to steak--we try them all. If you want to receive information about these outings, please contact Helene Stoffey at hlnstvns@gmail.com
 
 *** 
Knitting for a Purpose 
The knitting and crocheting group meets most Wednesdays from 3:00 - 5:00 PM at Sister Arts Studio (721 W. Wrightwood). Beginners and experts are welcome to join. The group will be making hats, scarves and mittens for the Night Ministry. Bring your needles and yarn, maybe even some coffee or tea. Sister Arts Studio will be happy to supply needles and/or yarn, patterns, and tips. For more information, please contact 
Beth Hickey at bethhickey37@hotmail.com

***
Saturday Afternoon at the Movies 
Each Wednesday, Village member Mel Washburn sends an email to all members of the group. This email selects one of the films being shown at the Landmark Century Cinema (2828 N. Clark St.) and suggests a time on the following Saturday when members of the group will gather to watch the movie. On that Saturday members come to the Cinema and watch the movie. After the film, they gather in the bar/lounge area of the theater for a self-hosted beverage and lively discussion of the movie.
If you would like to be added to the email list for this group, please email Mel Washburn at melville.washburn@outlook.com .

***
Six at The Table
With this group, you will have an opportunity to share a meal with three or four other members several times throughout the year. Everyone in the group hosts one meal for six and it can be anything the host wants -- brunch, lunch, dinner, or a picnic -- whatever suits you. Once the date and type of meal is announced, members of the group sign up -- first come, first served. If this interests you, please contact Sheila Ganch at  sgsculpture@yahoo.com  to be added to the list.

 JULY HIGHLIGHT

An Evening with Kevin Coval:
A People's History of Chicago
Wednesday, July 19
6:00-8:30 PM
Lincoln Park Presbyterian Church
(600 W. Fullerton Pkwy)
Members & guests-$25
(includes book)
Join us for a summer barbeque and an evening of history and stories with Kevin Coval, the author of  A People's History of Chicago and       Artisitic Director of Young Chicago Authors for a stop on his year-long journey to visit each of the 77 neighborhoods to tell "...the most radical and real and celebratory and difficult parts of our Chicago story we often times forget or didn't know in the first place." All ages are welcome!
WAYS TO STAY FIT
  
Village Yoga Program
Mondays, Ongoing
3:00 - 4:30 PM
Yoga Circle
(401 W. Ontario)
Special yoga program led by
Village member Donatella Santoro and her colleague, Cheryl Hurst, both taught and inspired by Gabriel Halpern's yoga technique, will bring a self healing approach to yoga.  See  www.yogacircle.com
 for a list of prices and packages.

***

Pilates 
Eight-session series: 
Tuesdays, Ongoing 
10:00 - 11:00 AM
Studio 1002
(1002 W. Diversey)
Members only-$160 for the series of 8 sessions
Payment goes directly to Studio 1002. 

  
*** 

NIA
Eight-session series :
Thursdays, Ongoing 
10:30 - 11:30 AM
Church of the Three Crosses
(333 W. Wisconsin)
 
Members - $64 for the series of 8 sessions, or $10 per session;
Guests- $100 for the series of 8 sessions, or $15 per session.
For personal growth, body-mind-spirit fitness, and lifestyle practice fusing dance, yoga, and martial arts. Join in anytime! 

 
SPECIAL OFFERS
Check out these special offers for Village members to stay active.
 
Chicago Athletic Club
Click here for details on their discounted membership rates. Contact the Village office for information on obtaining a one-month free trial membership.

XSport Fitness
Click here for information and a printable flyer you can redeem for a discounted gym membership. Contact the Village office for information on obtaining a 7-day trial membership and special rate for Village members only.
LEADERSHIP
Board of Directors 
Kathleen Kologdy, President
Mary Ann Schwartz, Vice President
David Baker, Vice President
Nancy Felton-Elkins, Vice President 
Joan Goldstein, Secretary
J. Dirk Vos, Treasurer

Donald M. Bell
John A. Bross
Charles G. Cooper
John Craib-Cox
Hollis Hines
John Holton
Bruce Hunt
Beth Joosten
Joe Lane
Alan T. Lougée
Ann Rusnak
Leatrice Berman Sandler
John Simonds
Mary Ann Smith
Lois Stuckey
Dick Sullivan
Karen Terry
Mel Washburn
 
Advisory Council
Neelum T. Aggarwal, MD
Robyn L. Golden
Joanne G. Schwartzberg, MD
Michael Spock
 
Immediate Past President
Ruth Ann Watkins
 
Founding Executive Director
Dianne S. Campbell
  
PARTNERS

The Village uses an asset-based approach to identifying first-rate resources for members, leveraging existing strengths within our communities. This approach has led to the formation of strategic partnerships with two organizations chosen for the breadth and depth of their capabilities and their recognized expertise in the health and well-being of older adults.

CJE SeniorLife™
Click here for more information.
 
Rush University Medical Center 
Click here for more information.
 
What is The Village Chicago?

The Village Chicago is an innovative, not-for-profit membership community that helps members navigate the new longevity by connecting them to each other and to trusted resources that support vibrant, secure later lives. Members value a unique array of programs and activities, the certainty that someone is there to help, and the kind of neighbor-to-neighbor connections that last a lifetime. Our Member-Plus program enables all neighbors regardless of income, to join and engage fully in Village life. Volunteers along with a small, nimble staff respond to each member's interests and requests with personal attention. By leveraging the talents, wisdom and skills of older adults, we have become an important asset to each other and to our communities, and a model for the future. Together, we are inventing a new future for older adults in America.  

Serving Chicago's neighborhoods from South Loop to Edgewater and beyond, our Village is a unique resource--professional yet neighborly and close-by--valuable to you right now and as your needs change.  

Call us! Join us!
773.248.8700
 
2502 N. Clark Street   
Chicago, IL 60614
p. 773.248.8700  f. 773.248.8181

MAY/JUNE 2017

Dear Neighbors, 

There is power in community. Much of what Village members do for each other and for our communities succeeds because we do it together. Borrowing a metaphor from Robert Putnam's book, in the Village, no one "bowls alone."
 
Lately, the importance of working together has taken on a heightened significance. You have probably heard friends and acquaintances and even total strangers saying, "I want to do something." Each of us wants to know that we have left our mark, created impact, made a difference. This yearning is not surprising when interpreted in the light of a body of research in social and emotional aging done by Stanford's Dr. Laura Carstensen who I had the pleasure of meeting last week. She has demonstrated that older people live in the moment, know what's important, and prioritize meaningful activities. ( Read more.)
 
Here are some stories about what Village members are doing, working for change. It may be a change for the better in the life of one person; or it may be working toward a goal we may not even see in our lifetime.
 
We hope you will be heartened and inspired by these stories about what our Village community is doing -- both for each other as members and in the community at large -- working together -- hand in hand, shoulder to shoulder.

Warmly,
Dianne S. Campbell
Founding Executive Director

P.S. Join us and support the Village as we celebrate our 8th anniversary at "Magic, Live!" on Monday, June 5 at the Galleria Marchetti, 825 W. Erie. For more information, a sneak peek at our auction items, and to purchase tickets visit our web site.

NEW & RETURNING MEMBERS

The Village welcomes these new and renewing members. Thank you all! Click here to view new and renewing members.

What They're Saying About The Village

... about Member Appreciation Day:
DePaul Volunteers on Member Appreciation Day, May 7
"
For member Appreciation Day I was visited by four young ladies who performed simple tasks that I find very difficult to do: changing the shower curtain and washing the kitchen floor. Simple -- but for me fraught with difficulty. Whenever I talk about the Village I talk about how there are caring people who are available to assist the members; so many thanks to the Village staff for arranging this day." 
-- Barbara Susin
 
... about Village volunteer drivers:
One of our new members wanted us to send a grateful thank you to our volunteer drivers. He asked, "Where do you find all these wonderful people? Everyone is so nice and so kind. They are just great people. Thank you."

Hand in Hand - Making a Difference in Each Other's Lives

Whether it is as volunteers, friends, neighbors or as a community, Village members are having a positive impact on each other's lives. And it begins with listening -- listening with the intent to understand because, as Alan Alda says, "Listening is being able to be changed by the other person." Helping someone changes both people as these stories will reveal.


Staying Engaged Through Mobility
by  Bruce Hunt

Jim Nagle (L) and Jack Hartray (R), Village members
Jack Hartray and  John Buenz are members in good standing of the Colony of Retired Architects (Jack's term), who have happened to settle in Lincoln Park. The colony has no regular meeting times. "We get together whenever John is hungry," claims Jack who appreciates John's willingness to drive to the intended destinations. (John is the only one with a valid adult driver's license so this makes his willingness to serve as tour director especially valuable.)

Food is not the only centerpiece of their gatherings -- so is music. They believe that the Village has established them as godparents of Banjo Night at Chief O'Neill's Pub. And so on any Monday night, they will have planted Jim Nagle (also a member of the "colony" and of the Village) in the front seat of John's car while Jack is tucked in the back and they head out.

Their delight in these Monday night adventures is contagious. "The same people show up and they bring all manner of instruments with them. They sing all the old songs -- John can sing four of them -- and because we are regulars, they don't start until we get there. As you might imagine, the good natured banter continues through the performance.


A Life Transition: Support Through Obstacles Large and Small

Pat and Cliff Terry, Village members
After 43 years in a two and a half story home, Pat and Cliff Terry were feeling somewhat overwhelmed by the constant burden of maintenance, and weary of the flights of stairs that separated their office, living and sleeping spaces. Being city people, they wanted to stay where the action is but were unsure of the financial implications. The Village was offering one-on-one sessions with sponsor Raymond James financial planners and they attended. Pat says, "We brought all our numbers and they had software and actuarial tables that did projections and we were relieved to learn that we could make this move."  
 
Once they moved, they faced the inevitable mountain of unpacked boxes and that unsettling feeling of unfamiliar space. The Village referred them to a vetted provider, Kib Voorhees who helped them get artwork and treasured items up and out of boxes, recommended ways to hang and arrange them and helped transformed one room into the familiar office where  these two freelance writers feel most at home. With the arrival of some new bookshelves, the creation of a photo gallery in the entry and some time spent by Pat with her piano, this transition will be successfully complete.  


Navigating Health Care with Members
by Bonnie Kepplinger

Ruth Ann Watkins, Committee Chair
"Health care advocacy is an issue that resonates with Village members," observes Ruth Ann Watkins, chair of the Village Health Care Advocacy Committee. In fact, the committee is a direct response to members' requests to develop innovative ways to navigate the medical, social, and legal complexities of their health care needs. The committee is in the process of identifying areas where the Village can provide volunteer-based and member-driven programming, services, and resources through health care advocating teams. These areas include managing your health care when ill; preparing for the future with advance directives and support systems; and help prioritizing social, medical, and financial needs.
 
The Health Care Advocacy Committee is multi-generational, including Village interns, staff, and adult children, as well as Village members. Liz Metzger, an occupational therapist who serves on the committee and was the first Village intern, stresses that health care impacts not just seniors but families and generations. "It involves all of us, regardless of age."


Staying Connected Through Technology

Carole Meiselman, 
Village Volunteer
For the past two years Carole Meiselman, a Village volunteer, has organized monthly tutorial sessions at the Apple store on North Avenue. These classes are special because they occur in a quiet atmosphere before store hours during which two Apple trainers and Carole focus on specific features and functions each session. Topics have included advanced iPhone, managing contacts and calendars, photography and more. Carole
establishes the content and coordinates with the store to make sure the sessions are delivered at the right pace and that examples are relevant to Village members so that everyone learns something. She says the best times for her are those "Aha!" moments.   
 
John Craib-Cox, Village member (standing, 2nd from right)
One member who attends regularly is John Craib-Cox. He appreciates being able to concentrate on learning without distraction. He says, "For example, in the photography session I learned how to use the attachment, how to sort and  manipulate and then was able to go home and do it. Most young people I know are up to date in their tech skills and this way I can keep abreast with developments in the platform and keep communicating with them." 


Allies: Who Will Be Our Allies as We Age?

The crisis endured by Sarah Squires Doyle and her family in her mother's last year of life led her to approach the Village about how it could help her generation be better prepared for their parents aging transitions and end of life issues. Sarah says, "We thought we were prepared but when confronted with decisions about medical treatment, rehab, caregivers, how to maintain Mom' s mobility as an amputee, what Medicare covers and what it does not, we were at a loss and paying $15K per month for 24 hour in-home care when all else failed." 
A Village committee was formed by Sarah which soon realized they had tapped into another pressing need among members: those who have no children or family to support them wondered who could they rely on for support in later life and end of life. Who would be their allies? Sarah says, "We started with this group and held a some events to address the question of who will be your allies -- the first of which was attended to capacity."

In exploring the notion of allies, we have all learned three important things:
  1. Even though family members may not be available or appropriate to fill the role, allies can still be found.  
  2. Many may need a network or team of allies -- one person can't do it all.
  3. There are things everyone can do to make sure they feel secure (e.g. opening up communication about aging transitions and end of life, discussing and completing advance directives, etc).
Barbara Su sin -- Building My Structure

Barbara is her own best ally and has started the process of putting in place a professional team to make sure she is safe and secure all her days. She hired a health advocate who is helping her plan, plus identified legal surrogates for assets and health care. She says, "You can't deal with a crisis if there is no plan."
 
She views the Village as "a garden of opportunities to build trusted relationships over time." One of those opportunities came in the form of group that meets weekly, "The Power of Support." Led by therapist and member Linda Randall, six women have found comfort by sharing, being understood, and the power of the group process. There was a lot of talk about caregiving and it started Barbara thinking "Who will care for me?" Being in the group she learned that the way to be cared for is by inviting other people into your life. Barbara says, "However you choose to interact with people through the Village, whether it is a support group, or memoir writing or whatever, you begin to develop relationships over time that have trust and understanding." If we reach out, allies are all around us.


Shoulder to Shoulder - Working for Change in the Community, the City, the World

The world is full of need. Where to begin? Many Village members have found a place to lend a hand and collectively are creating significant impact. Here are a few examples of our community's contribution to the $78 billion worth of service provided each year by people 55 and older.*
*Source: The Corporation for National and Community Service (CNCS)


Krys Lordahl: Combating Food Insecurity and Homelessness
by Bonnie Kepplinger
 
Krys Lordahl, Village member
Tutor, theater "Saint," Village volunteer driver -- Krys Lordahl wears many volunteer hats.
 
Add to that job description cook, waitress, computer technician, and secretary work she does for organizations that focus on food insecurity and homelessness. Krys works with the Little Sisters of the Poor, a group that provides housing, meals, and care for seniors. In this capacity, she serves meals.
 
Her work with the Night Ministry, an organization that provides housing, health care, and human connection to community members suffering the effects of poverty and homelessness, ranges from computer work to setting up displays for events.
 
Another agency, the Common Pantry, works to combat hunger in certain northern Chicago neighborhoods. Krys provides data entry, writes thank-you notes, and volunteers at events for the pantry.
 
Krys finds her volunteer work rewarding. "It reminds me not to take everything for granted. How lucky we are to be able to contribute to these organizations! Incidentally, all these places welcome new volunteers."


Rick Stuckey: Fighting for the Environment
by Bruce Hunt

Taken by Village member, Rick Stuckey at the People' s Climate March, Washington, D.C., April 29, 2017
Rick Stuckey has been a life member of the Sierra Club, the country's largest environmental organization, since the 1970s -- not just a member on paper, but an active member. Lobbying for clean air and a safe environment is the most important activity Rick pursues. With others, he has opposed coal-fired power plants that damage the surrounding areas and contaminate the air, which are major contributors to climate change. He meets regularly with his state representative and senator to persuade them to support the environment with upcoming legislation and he frequently joins lobbying events in Springfield. He is proud of an organization he and other activists have built to oppose pipelines that are particularly difficult to fight. He and his colleagues have found ways to educate residents through town hall meetings and one-on-one meetings with landowners.

Rick is also involved in interviewing potential candidates for local office who are seeking Sierra Club endorsements and supporting the endorsed ones with phone banks and door-to-door canvassing.
This list of wide-ranging activities demands that Rick pay attention, build relationships and persist when there is resistance. He says "It all comes down to teamwork. It has never been more important than now when years of environmental progress are under threat."


Rhoda Reeling: Preparing Young People to Make Thoughtful Life Choices
By  Mel Washburn

Village member Rhoda Reeling and Ira Glass at a recent Storycatchers fundraiser
Rhoda Reeling has served for nine years on the board of Storycatchers Theatre. She also serves on their development and personnel committees. Storycatchers works with young people being held in the Illinois Youth Centers in Warrenville and Chicago, and the Cook County Juvenile Detention Center. Staffed by professional teaching artists, Storycatchers conducts multi-week programs where participants are coached through story-writing assignments, personal development exercises, readings, planning sessions and rehearsals, culminating in their performance of an original musical play based on their writings and their own life stories. Participants gain writing and performance skills, personal development, and practical knowledge that will help them succeed in school, at home, and in their communities.
 
Storycatchers also serves young people recently released from the juvenile justice system. Participants are coached through the same creative program, culminating in a musical play performed in their communities. Participants are paid employees of the program, who receive on-the-job training with opportunities for advancement and increased pay. They are encouraged to complete high school or obtain a GED. They receive anger management and trauma training, and have access to counseling, safe housing, long-term employment, and other resources.

Says Rhoda: "It's rewarding to support young people working to change their lives."


Marsha and Phil Dowd: Fostering Public Art
Eyes on the Fullerton Underpass: Brilliant Form and Color is Coming
by Jane Curry

No need to remind Marsha and Phil Dowd that 2017 is the Year of Public Art in Chicago.

These long-time Village members have spent the past eight years, off and on, putting public art top-of-mind. Their current goal is to transform the underpass at Fullerton and Lake Shore Drive into a piece of art. And, guess what? That piece of art is headed for an August unveiling.

The Dowds and their colleague in this project, Paula Kahn, a strong supporter of the Village, have been friends and neighbors for years. "Marsha called me one day and described the mural art at the Bryn Mawr underpass she had just biked through," Paula explains. 'Why not Fullerton?' she said. We were both captivated by the possibility."
And that was the beginning of what now has become a partnership between Chicago Public Art Group (CPAG) and Chicago-based visual artist Renee Robbins .

Mesophytic Cameo, an example of Renee Robbins' art exploring the natural world
"I was thrilled to find Renee Robbins while researching the large group of public art muralists who had participated in the Chicago Wabash Corridor Project last year," Marsha says. "Renee's work immediately caught my eye and sparked my interest.
 
Preparation and sandblasting of the walls was completed, on time, in mid-May. Very significant, this art installation is being completely underwritten by contributions from residents of the 43 rd Ward and surrounding neighborhoods.

You Can Do Something!

Here is just a sampling of the organizations with whom Village members are working -- linked to their websites.

Youth and Children

Alternatives - Youth social service agency.
Larry Damron

UCAN - Youth and family services.
Char Damron

VOCEL - Redefining early education, child by child.
Barbara Koren

St. Vincent DePaul Center - Preschool and afterschool day care.
Melaine and Bob Stephens

Urban Initiatives - Youth soccer for underserved communities.
Beth Joosten

Education

Chicago Debate Commission - Competitive debating league among low income Chicago area high schools and middle schools.
National Association for Urban Debate - Debate leagues on Chicago model in large urban secondary schools.
Dick Sullivan

WITS (Working in the Schools) - Building a more literate Chicago.
Diane Graham-Henry

Open Books - Nonprofit social venture that provides literacy experiences for thousands of readers each year through inspiring programs and the creative capitalization of used books.
Dirk Vos

Hunger and Homelessness

The Lakeview Pantry - Food distribution program.
Joellen Satterlee

The Crib - Emergency overnight youth shelter.
Bonnie Kepplinger

CUMALI - (Chicago Urban Ministries & Life Intervention) - Focuses on the most vulnerable homeless.
Judy and John Bross

Environment

Save the Dunes - Preserve, protect and restore the Indiana Dunes.
Harold Olin

Jarvis Migratory Bird Sanctuary - Creating and maintaining a nature area of Chicago's lakefront.
Bob Stephens

Other

Friendship Force Chicago - Hosts international visitors.
Dorothy and Bob Hernquist

Lyric Opera Education Department - Backstage tours for student groups.
Dorothy Hernquist

Organizing for Action - Progressive political change.
Melaine and Bob Stephens

Jesse Brown VA Medical Center - Assisting staff and hospitalized veterans.
Chuck Cooper

Blind Service Association - An array of programs and services for people who are blind and visually impaired in the Chicagoland area.
Judy Roth

Seventh Circuit Bar Association Foundation -  Organizing a day-long symposium,  What to do About Gun Violence.
Tom Campbell

Crossroads Fund -   Supports community organizations working on issues of racial, social and economic justice in the Chicago area.
Jackie Zevin

Village News and Upcoming Events
Do You Believe in Magic?
The Village Chicago's 8th Anniversary Celebration and Benefit
You are invited to The Village Chicago's 8th Anniversary and Benefit, "Magic, Live!" on June 5, at  Galleria Marchetti, 825 W. Erie. Join us at  5:00 PM for a reception with light appetizers, drinks, silent auction and raffle and the show at 6:45 PM.
 
The magic will be provided by David Parr and Joe Diamond, masters of Windy City style of conjuring with an emphasis on audience participation and mind-boggling sleight of hand.  
 
The auction features items you will find nowhere else ranging from a 5-day, 4-night stay at Bandon Dunes with unlimited golf, to a box at the Symphony, to an in-home hot Himalayan salt stone massage.
 
All proceeds will benefit The Village Chicago --  register here.  For a sneak preview of the spectacular auction items, click here.

Special thanks to our generous  8th Anniversary  Host Committee , Underwriters, and Sponsors.



Directions to the  Old Town Art Fair
The Village Chicago Awarded Grant  
The Old Town Triangle Association has just awarded The Village Chicago a $1,500 grant to support Member Plus -- a program which makes it possible for all neighbors, regardless of income, to join and participate fully in Village life. The OTTA's annual Old Town Art Fair is the source of funds for such grants. This year, the fair will be on Saturday and Sunday, June 10 and 11.


P.S. If you would like to volunteer to booth sit for 15-20 minutes each at several artists' booths on Sunday, June 11, from 12:30 to 2:30 PM please call Jane at 312-285-2828 or email her at boothsitting2017@gmail.com. 




Rep. Sara Feigenholtz and Screening of A Simple Piece of Paper
Village member Rep. Sara Feigenholtz
This event demonstrates another way that one person, Sara, made a difference and there is a story which inspired this event
which you can read here. Join us on Monday, June 19, from 6:30-8:00 PM at The Center on Halsted (3656 N. Halsted) and learn what happened when the State of Illinois passed legislation sponsored by Village member Rep. Sara Feighenholtz that allowed citizens access to their original birth certificates. You will hear how Rep. Sara Feigenholtz and another Village member were personally affected by the law and see a screening of the documentary A Simple Piece of Paper which examines the impact of the release of these records. Discussion will follow. This event is free -- to register, click here.

CALL US! JOIN US!

 

Joining The Village Chicago


Membership is available to people 50+ living in Chicago's north side communities from River East to Edgewater and beyond. For your convenience, you can click on the membership application below, or if you prefer, call the Village office for other options. A reduced-rate program, Member Plus, is available for those on limited fixed incomes.

After becoming a member, we will welcome you and connect you to the specific people, activities and services that fit your unique interests and needs. Our goal is always to help you explore possibilities and support your choices so you can live the life you wish to live.

 

Download Membership Application

 

Click here to pay and join online

  

VILLAGE SPONORS