NEW ROGERS PARK BUSINESS STEPS UP; OFFERING BIG ASSIST TO NBOA
This is the second RPBG newsletter in a row where our lead topic is about the Neighborhood Building Owner Alliance's 12th Annual Summer Soiree, held on Thursday, August 1. The event drew more than 500 attendees.
More than a few of you will object to my repeat in choice in topics.
“Mike. The Summer Soiree is an NBOA event. Why are you cluttering the Rogers Park Builders Group newsletter with a second story about an event that another organization held – albeit a parent organization to the RPBG? Why aren’t you discussing Rogers Park real estate issues?”
My response to any of you detractors – “Chill out.”
In fact, there is a uniquely Rogers Park component to the story of the NBOA's 12th Annual Summer Soiree – one that puts Rogers Park and, in particular, a great Rogers Park business in the spotlight.
PIctured above - Michael Glasser and Lenice Levy, owner of Good to Go Jamaican Restaurant and
Seven Star Venue event space, both on Howard Street in Evanston and in Chicago.
NEXT UP!
Stay tuned for
details about our
Annual Meeting
TUESDAY, OCT. 30
MEMBER SPOTLIGHT
MICHAEL HOBBS
PAHROO APPRAISAL & CONSULTANCY
I am first and foremost a real estate investor and also an entrepreneur, an inventor, an author and a global speaker and trainer. I've started 9 businesses and for 20+ years have lead Pahroo Appraisal & Consultancy and now Appraisal Angels, both recognized experts in real estate appraisal, valuation and consulting. We help clients make confident decisions today that transform tomorrow by solving problems, overcoming obstacles and empowering investment. I love entrepreneurs and am grateful for the opportunity to travel around the world to train, facilitate and cultivate their unique entrepreneurial abilities.
RPBG'S 30TH ANNIVERSARY VIDEO
Watch our video showcasing RPBG's 30 year history. Learn how our organization was formed, of the challenges we faced and the opportunities we've been given.
The final 7 minutes show one of RPBG's most epic moments.
CHARITABLE ENDEAVORS
Every year, the Rogers Park Builders Group strives to give back to the Rogers Park community in generous, creative and impactful ways. Below are a few projects from recent years that we are most proud.
BASKETBALL TOURNAMENT
For the 2nd year in a row, RPBG and some of its members covered the full cost for Sullivan High School's Annual Middle School Basketball Tournament. This free, double elimination tournament, provided a competitive and fun outlet for 120 Chicago area students. The youth were introduced to this terrific local high school and participated in classroom discussion focusing on Dr. Martin Luther King's legacy as well.
LIFE SKILLS CLASSROOM
One of RPBG's finest moments occurred in 2016, as the RPBG helped transform a regular classroom at Sullivan High School into a full fledged life skills space. Serving the students of the School's special needs program, which helps students with autism and Down Syndrome, the classroom includes a full kitchen, laundry and day bed. The students eagerly use this room to learn basic life skills and independent living.
FUNDRAISER FOR IMMIGRANTS
During Covid, our community partner, Northside Community Resources told us that many immigrant families living in Rogers Park were struggling, as they did not qualify for federal relief programs. RPBG and its members engaged in a special fundraising drive generating contributions totaling $18,000 to support our newest community members.
GLENWOOD ART FESTIVAL
Starting in 2002, RPBG has consistently sponsored the Glenwood Avenue Arts Fest, an important local festival, founded by our Board member Al Goldberg, which showcases our eclectic and creative community. Many of our members also support this summer street festival through booths and generous sponsorships.
CHICAGO HIGH RIDGE FOOTBALL TEAM
A tragic fire resulted in a local youth football program losing its equipment. RPBG's $2500 gift helped purchase new replacement items. Other local businesses and community members joined the RPBG in supporting this drive, which allows for the Hi Ridge Chargers to continue to compete, offering youngsters from around the neighborhood the chance to gain play tackle football, under the guidance of a set of skilled coaches.
RPBG believes that these sorts of time tested activities are what is needed to keep the neighborhood youngsters engaged and involved in challenging and fun activity.
RESTORED VINTAGE MUSICAL INSTRUMENTS FOR LOCAL H.S.
In 2019, Andrew, the Sullivan High School Music Director, told us that someone had uncovered 60 year old musical instruments in the school's basement. "If we can restore these," Andrew promised, "I can create a marching band and revive a rock 'n roll program. RPBG came through with funding, resulting in restoration of dozens of instruments. That Fall, Sullivan had a marching band and a successful rock 'n roll band program. RPBG also underwrote private music lessons in partnership with Loyola University Chicago and renown local music store, Flatts & Sharpe.
SULLIVAN GRADUATION PICNIC
Due to Covid, the Sullivan HS graduates in Spring, 2021 had no prom, and little fanfare to commemorate their important milestone. At Principal Thomas' request, the RPBG covered the cost of a pre-graduation picnic, attended by graduates and staff. Many students happily celebrated their accomplishment over tacos, pizza, raffle prizes and festivity with their friends and SHS's dedicated faculty.