Creating a Vibrant Community

Creating a pleasant, vibrant community is probably the biggest theme of this blog. An article in this week's Parade Magazine lists some things that contribute to a healthy local zeitgeist.

1. Support the arts

Until everybody starts reading this blog, a local newspaper that focuses on and publicizes local cultural events would be nice. "Our Town" does a nice job despite the fact that it covers the entire north side. There are events at Wright College, Eisenhower library, local libraries, and churches that could use additional promotion provided by a local newsletter.

2. Boost biking and walking

The painted bike lane on Narragansett has been a welcome addition. The Harlem-Irving-Forest Preserve drive triangle is still a pedestrian nightmare.

3. Create a "green belt"

If space was available, a playlot or two between Hiawatha and Shabbona parks would enable residents to walk, instead of drive, their children to a recreational area.

4. Prohibit drive-throughs

It's us against the big fast food chains

5. Stamp out cigarettes

City's doing great there already.

6. Shrink signage

It's improving but there are some lingering instances on north Harlem.

7. Empower the people

Yep, that means referenda and plebiscites (you know, all that goofy, nutty stuff they do in California and not here).