To RPBG Members, Colleagues and Friends:

RPBG PRESENTS

PRESIDENTS' AWARD TO LONG TIME RESIDENT & OWNER MARY BAO

At the Rhapsody Theater on Tuesday, November 11, the Rogers Park Builders Group celebrated and recognized long-term Director Mary Bao by presenting her with the Annual Presidents' Award. In what is now a nine year tradition, the past and the present RPBG Presidents recognize one RPBG member for his or her long term commitment to Rogers Park and/or to the RPBG.

In his opening comments and joined by past RPBG Presidents Marty Max and Allen Smith, RPBG President Michael Glasser described how Mary is a true Rogers Park native - born and raised in the neighborhood. Mike explained how Mary steadfastly supports all things Rogers Park, serving on many boards and committees.

Pictured above, left to right: Dorian Bezanis, Mike Glasser,

Marty Max, Mary, Allen Smith and Al Goldberg.

The 90-plus attendees then heard from long time friend and business relation, Alan Goldberg, of Al Goldberg Real Estate LLC. Alan knew Mary years ago, selling to Mary and to her mother a prime piece of real estate on Pratt near Sheridan, and, later, several other properties as well. Later, Mary and her husband Neil Lifton operated Duke's Bar, and Al served as their landlord. Al described Mary as a skilled and savvy business owner (who brought terrific music to Morse/Glenwood and helped energize that new arts district), real estate investor and property manager.

Following Al, Dorian Bezanis of Alpha Adjusting, the 2024 Winner of the same award, presented the plaque to Mary, along with kind words. "Tonight those people who have long known you describe you as a brat," he joked. "To be honest. I've never seen it."

In her acceptance speech, Mary was gracious and humble, and she then impressed the crowd by telling her life's story, including the challenges faced by her parents in Mao's China, en route to America. We learned of Mary's Rogers Park roots, and then her stellar career in fashion design before settling down back in Rogers Park as a resident, business person and property owner.

"Mary is often the first to support nearly all RPBG charitable initiatives," said RPBG administrator Sheryl Rosenberg, who is also a dear friend of Mary's. "Mary is always there when you need her!"


Congrats Mary, on your well deserved honor!

Mike Glasser

RPBG President

Pictured above: At the Annual Meeting, RPBG recognizes member Jack Slubowski, Director of Builder Sales at ABT Electronics, for donating replacement appliances for the Sullivan High School Life Skills classroom. RPBG launched the Life Skills classroom over ten years ago to help teach students with autism and Down Syndrome, independent living.

Director of Preservation Compact and RPBG Director Maggie Cassidy conversing with RPBG supporter Kim Cardosi.

BILL SCHLOSS - OWNER