2014 Board of Directors
Bruce Gottschall,
President Patricia Abrams, Vice-President Ofelia Navarro, Secretary Lawrence Grisham, Ex-officio Director Calvin Holmes, Treasurer Joy Aruguete Joel Bookman Pamela Gecan Timothy Hughes Edward H. Jacob Brenda Palms-Barber Rosanna Marquez Robert McGhee Guacolda Reyes William W. Towns Marva Williams Jeffrey Wright Staff
Kara Breems, Executive Director Teresa Lambarry, Outreach Director |
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CCLT Homeowners and Friends, 
I usually do not like watching hoarding shows on reality tv - it's just a little too much like reality for me. I worry that as I age I will start wanting to keep everything I own, not letting go of anything, just in case I need it one day.
Right now though, I am the opposite and have a compulsion to get rid of everything not needed (and, sorry to say, sometimes I get rid of papers that I NEED)!!!
So my advice: As the summer slows and we start to head back inside - which is the time many of us get bit with the organization bug!, be careful while organizing so that you do not get rid of things that you WILL be needing. Hope you enjoy this month's newsletter and get inspired to organize your homes!
Until next month, Teresa Lambarry |
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Featured Article: Organizing Your Home
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While researching this issue, I found this article from Mosaic Online and these tips from HGTV to be very helpful. Below is a summary of the points/tips I found most helpful. Enjoy!
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Three steps to help you de-clutter:
Step 1. Unclutter your thinking. Remember that when you buy something you then must take responsibility for it. You must be able to take care of each of the things you own; from your car to the bookshelf you just bought. You must care for these things to the best of your ability.
Step 2. Make a Plan. Think about the reasons that are stopping you from being able to de-clutter. Make a plan and set goals. Do one room at a time instead of your whole house, it's much less intimidating!
Step 3. Develop a System - Ways to Deal with Clutter. Find a spot in your storage space for things you may want to give away to Goodwill, Salvation Army. Find another spot for things you might want to sell at your next yard sale.
Closets - Clean one closet at a time: empty them completely and put things back one at a time. Once you wear something, turn the hanger the other way, so you get a clear picture of the clothes you are not wearing and that you might want to sell or donate to someone else.
Kitchen System - Do not use cabinets to store things you rarely or never use. Use your cabinets to store things you use frequently. If you have not used something for years and it's sitting way on top of one of your cabinets it is time to let it go!!!
Paper Stream System - Do not bring anything you are not going to read into your home. Once you have read a newspaper or magazine, discard it. Open your mail near the paper shredder so that you can dispose of unwanted items immediately.
File important papers as well as receipts, recipes, and photographs.
Reduce miscellaneous papers by taking notes on your phone or computer and storing recipes online, using sites such as epicurious and recipes.com.
Cardboard Food Boxes and plastic bags that package your cereal, snacks and dry goods take up lots of space and may not your food fresh. Consider swapping them out for glass jars or airtight food storage containers.
Dish Sponges should be replaced every month. You can also sanitize them by throwing in your dishwasher with the dishes.
Old Shoes, clothing, children's clothing too small: Can't remember when you last wore a pair of shoes or an outfit that you have not worn every or for more than one year? It is time to donate them!!! Torn or missing pairs? Toss them out!
Expired Makeup: How long have those cosmetics been lurking in your makeup bag? Mascara should be replaced every three months. Foundation and concealer are good for about a year, while lipstick, eye shadow and blush should be replaced every two years.
Spices: Smell your spices: If they don't have a smell anymore, it is time to replace them.
Tooth Brushes should be replaced every three months.
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REPEAT:
Programs to Assist Homeowners
PORCH/ROOF Program Deadline Coming Up!!
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I know that I already told you about the programs below but again, people don't use them enough probably because they know nothing about them. Also, the Roof and Porch program is coming up and people who need help with those items SHOULD take advantage of it so here is the information again.
H.O.M.E Program: This program helps senior homeowners who meet income and home value qualifications to rehab their homes in order meet local housing codes and standards. Homeowners in Kane and DeKalb counties, may be eligible for the program's interest free, deferred loans to rehab their homes. Community Contacts, Inc., a not-for-profit social service agency, will assist with this program by inspecting the property, writing the work order, bidding the job, supervising the contractors, inspecting the job sites and handling the paperwork. For more information, call Community Contacts at: (847) 697-8800. For more information on this program and others for Seniors please click here.
The Department of Planning and Development offers two programs:
Ongoing: Small Accessible Repairs for Seniors (SARFS): Free program deals with the safety, security and accessibility for seniors. For more information about the program please see flyer click
2015: Roof and Porch Assistance Program
For more information please click here to view flyer.
LIHEAP Program - This programs helps you pay your utility bills as well as give you grants to fix your heating unit and other repairs as long as you meet the income requirements. Please click here for more information.
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CCLT Homeowner Tip of the Month
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CCLT Homeowner Responsibilities (Articles 4-7)
1. Live in your home! Your CCLT home must be used for residential purposes only, and it must be your primary residence - meaning it must be your home for at least 9 months of the year. CCLT Staff will require you to file an annual residency affidavit to track long-term residency. (Articles 4.1 and 4.4)
2. Maintain your Home in good, safe condition - and make any repairs or replacements necessary to keep it that way. (Article 4.2)
3. Insure your Home
- Maintain a homeowner's insurance policy for the full replacement value of the home;
- The CCLT will require that you provide proof of insurance each year.
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Get Involved in Your Community
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Did you know that by volunteering your time and effort to your community or other worthwhile event will make you more appealing to a new employer?
Looking for ways to volunteer in your community? Check out the following:
All for good.org can help out and give ideas as to were you can volunteer your time.
Chicago Cares gives you many opportunities to give back to your community.
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Monthly Calendar of Events
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Do not let Summer pass and you have not taken advantage of the warmer weather here are some events that you might want to attend.
August 22 - 23, 2014
Scrapbookers will find classes, vendors, and crop parties at the Scrapbook Expo at Pheasant Run Resort in St. Charles.
Boulevard & Brazil Festival
August 22 - 24, 2014
Formerly Boulevard Bash, The Boulevard [sound] in Logan Square has two stages of music, Brazilian food and entertainment, and craft beer. Donation.
Craft Expo
August 22 - 24, 2014
See 164 artisans exhibiting one-of-a-kind museum quality work at American Craft Exposition in the Henry Crown Sports Pavilion at Northwestern University. Preview party the prior evening. Cost.
Bacon, Sports, and Beer
August 23, 2014 (3 to 6 p.m.)
Bacon, Sports and Beer Celebration is billed as a hat trick of awesomeness. Sample bacon-inspired creations from 20 restaurants, taste 20 craft beers, and enjoy sports in the Great Hall at Union Station.
Food Truck Festival
August 23 - 24, 2014
Enjoy a meal from a mobile eatery and listen to live music at the Chicago Food Social at 900 N Branch in the Kendall College parking lot. Cost.
South Loop Street Fair
August 23 - 24, 2014
Bash on Wabash offers musical acts, arts & crafts, a big kids' area, food trucks, and beer on Wabash Avenue at 13th Street. Donation.
Taste of Greece
August 23 - 24, 2014
Enjoy Greek restaurant food, traditional music and dance, handcrafts, and children's games at Taste of Greektown at 400 S Halsted Street. Free.
Fashion & New Orleans Festival
August 23 - 24, 2014
Chicago Fashion Fest is an outdoor runway show plus New Orleans festival with Zydeco and Dixieland bands, seafood gumbo, jambalaya, drinks, and arts & crafts at Division and Damen Streets. Donation.
Bucktown Arts Festival
August 23 - 24, 2014
Bucktown Arts Fest is an arts celebration that showcases 200 artists, musicians, dancers, poets, and performers at N Oakley and Lyndale. Free.
Triathlon
August 24, 2014
The Chicago Triathlon follows a picturesque course along Lake Michigan, beginning at Monroe Harbor.
Jazz Festival
August 28 - 31, 2014
The Chicago Jazz Festival is Labor Day weekend at Millennium Park. No dogs. Free.
North Coast Music Festival
August 29 - 31, 2014
North Coast Music Festival is an all-ages music fest that ranges from hip-hop to electronic to indie rock in Union Park at Ogden & Randolph. Cost.
African Festival
August 29 - Sept. 1, 2014
African Festival of the Arts celebrates African art, books, crafts, drumming, food, and entertainment at a giant festival in Washington Park. Cost.
Polish Festival
August 29 - Sept. 1, 2014
Taste of Polonia features 32 bands, 70 vendors, and 12 food booths (polska kielbasa, pierogi, potato pancakes, beer) at Copernicus Center. Cost.
Music & Art Festival
August 30, 2014 (2 to 10 p.m.)
Artopia Fest features live music, live art stations, food trucks and beer, a kidtopia, and work of 100 artists at Chicago Urban Art Society. Kids under 12 free.
Eco Art & Music Festival
August 30 - 31, 2014
Remix Chicago (was Ravenswood Remix) is an art and music festival featuring artists who use recycled and re-purposed materials, with food trucks, green workshops, kids' activities on Milwaukee Avenue from Fullerton to California. Donation.
African Festival
September 1, 2014 (begins Aug. 29)
African Festival of the Arts [sound] celebrates African art, books, crafts, drumming, entertainment, and food at a giant festival in Washington Park. Cost.
Polish Festival
September 1, 2014 (begins Aug. 29)
Taste of Polonia features 32 bands, 70 vendors, and 12 food booths (polska kielbasa, pierogi, potato pancakes, beer) at Copernicus Center. Cost.
September 1 - 20, 2014 (begins June 16)
Ravinia Festival is billed as America's oldest outdoor music festival, with a long series of performances at Ravinia Park in Highland Park. Cost.
Seniors Day at Art Institute
September 3, 2014
Senior Celebrations at the Art Institute of Chicago offers lectures, demonstrations, and free entry at 159 E. Monroe St. Register for optional luncheon.
Country Fair
September 3 - 7, 2014
Head to the Sandwich Fair for carnival games, fair food, grandstand shows, and farm animals. Cost.
Movie at the Zoo
September 5, 2014
Zoovies are free outdoor movies at Lincoln Park Zoo at dusk on July 24, Aug. 21, Sept. 5, and Oct. 3.
- Best in Show - Sept. 5 (Sept. 19 if rain)
Turkish Fest
September 5 - 6, 2014
Experience the art, music, dance, and cuisine of Turkey at the Chicago Turkish Festival in Pioneer Court at 401 N Michigan Ave. Free.
Wine Festival
September 5 - 6, 2014
Sample from more than 300 wines at the outdoor Windy City Wine Festival near Buckingham Fountain.
German Festival & Parade
September 5 - 7, 2014
German American Fest has German music, culture, beer, and food at Lincoln Square. The Von Steuben Parade is 2 p.m. Sat. at 4000 N Lincoln Ave. Free.
Beethoven Festival
September 5 - 21, 2014
The Beethoven Festival is 100 events that include classical and contemporary musical performances, visual art exhibitions, performance and installation art, and fashion shows at Merit School of Music.
September 6 - 7, 2014
Shop from independent artisans and chefs at the Renegade Craft Fair in Wicker Park. Free.
Ukrainian Festival
September 6 - 7, 2014
Ukrainian Village Fest offers folk dance, music, food (potato pancakes, borsch, pierogies, kabos, blintzes), beer, wine, and a kids' area at Superior St. & Oakley.
September 6 - 28, 2014 (Aug. 30 - Oct. 19)
Midnight Circus in the Parks is a series of daytime shows at eight parks that's perfect for families. Cost.
Bike and Eat
September 7, 2014
Four Star Bike & Chow is a non-competitive biking event that has routes from 12 to 65 miles with snacks on the way and after party. Routes begin and end at Circle Memorial Grove on the UIC campus. Cost.
Half Marathon
September 7, 2014
The Chicago Half Marathon begins at Jackson Park and goes along the scenic lakeshore. Free to watch.
September 8 - 29, 2014 (except Sat. & Sun.)
Show Illinois ID to enter the Museum of Science and Industry free during Free Days. Repeats in January.
Berghoff Oktoberfest
September 10 - 12, 2014
Berghoff Oktoberfest serves bratwurst, sauerkraut, chicken, pretzels, and apple strudel plus German music at W Adams St. and Dearborn. Free to 9 p.m.
Beer Festival
September 12, 2014
Festiv-Ale offers fine Midwest beers, excellent food, music, and a charity auction at Carmichael's Chicago Steak House. Cost.
Rock Festival
September 12 - 14, 2014
Riot Fest is an outdoor punk, rock and alternative music festival plus carnival at Humboldt Park. Cost.
Mexican Independence Festival
September 12 - 14, 2014
Thousands attend Festival de La Villita for authentic Mexican cuisine, music, artisans, carnival rides, and family entertainment on W 26th St. at Kostner. Free.
Beer Festival
September 13, 2014
Buy tickets online for beer tasting and snacks during an afternoon or evening session at The Chicago Beer Festival in Union Station. Repeats March. Cost.
September 13 - 14, 2014
Celebrate Mexico's separation from Spain at these Mexican Independence Day parades, with colorful floats, mariachi bands, and street dancing. Free.
- Sept. 13 (12:00) - Pilsen Mexican Independence Day Parade on 18th Street at Newberry
- Sept. 14 (12:00) - 26th Street Mexican Independence Day Parade on 26th St. at Albany
- Sept. 14 (2:00) - South Chicago Mexican Indep. Day Parade on Commercial Avenue at 87th
Wells Street Festival
September 13 - 14, 2014
Crush in Old Town has fine art, beer and wine tasting, macaroni & cheese tasting, local restaurants, music, and a kids' area at Wells St. & North Ave. Donation.
Lakeview East Art Festival
September 13 - 14, 2014
Meet 175 juried artists selling paintings, sculpture, photography, furniture, and jewelry at Lakeview East Festival of the Arts on Broadway Avenue, north of Belmont. Donation.
Gay Film Festival
September 18 - 25, 2014
Reeling is Chicago's LGBT International Film Festival.
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CCLT Spotlight: Board Member
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Jeffrey Wright is the newest CCLT Board member - he joined the Board in March of 2014 and we are very fortunate to have him!
A Chicago native, Mr. Wright graduated from St. Ignatius College Prep in 2003, Georgetown University in 2007, and Northwestern University's Kellogg School of Management in 2012. His academic studies were focused on management, finance, and entrepreneurship. Mr. Wright has worked in the banking industry since 2008, starting as a commercial credit analyst at ShoreBank, and then working with its successor institution, Urban Partnership Bank, as a commercial lender. He has experience advising business clients in various industries, including manufacturing, food services, business services, security management, environmental remediation, child care and health care. Mr. Wright also currently serves on the Board of Directors of the Daniel Murphy Scholarship Fund, the Chicago Jesuit Academy, and on the Chairmen's Advisory Council for Big Shoulders Fund.
Our interview with Jeffrey:
Q. What motivated you to volunteer your time with the CCLT Board?
A. Growing up, I was a direct beneficiary of affordable housing programs. I was exposed to different cultures, lifestyles and environments as a result of affordable housing programs. I am passionate about facilitating opportunity for people to build their lives in a safe and comfortable living situation. It can be hard to focus on education, career, family, relationships when you don't have a stable living situation. I believe in CCLT and how the organization provides hard working people with a strong foundation to build and improve their lives.
Q. Any recommendations for our CCLT homeowners?
A. A general recommendation I say to everyone, including myself: Read more! Someone has written a book about anything you are experiencing or want to learn about. All the knowledge and information you have ever wanted is available and is probably easily accessible. Also, do whatever you can to make your home (or even a room in your home) a sanctuary. Whether it is a can of paint, art work, colorful curtains, a few nice towels, or even air freshener, there are a lot of quick and affordable ways to create a little luxury at home!
Thank you Jeffrey!
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Community and Ward Information |
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CCLT homeowners live in the 2nd, 3rd, 26th, 28th, 35th, 46th, 47th, and 49th Wards. Click the links below for information regarding your Alderman, your Ward, and your Community, including links to City events in your Ward! If you are in a different Ward or do not know what Ward you are in, please give me a call or shoot me an email and I will let you know.
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Let your family and friends know!
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CCLT RESALE UNIT LARGE TOWNHOME LOCATED AT 1756 N. Kedzie (Logan Square) $181,000
4 bedroom - 2.1 baths, located in Logan Square! Open floor plan with hardwood floors, washer and dryer in main level, maple kitchen cabinets, 9' ceilings, space on 2nd level for a sitting/office room, large unfinished basement.
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Your total household income
must be equal or less than 80% AMI
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1 person $41,250
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2 persons $47,150
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3 persons $53,050
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4 persons $58,900
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5 persons $63,650
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6 persons $68,350
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7 persons $73,050
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8 persons $77,050
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Must meet income requirements and have a bank pre-approval in order to view. Please call Nadia Stewart at 773. 909.6384 to make an appointment.
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Single Family Home - Humboldt Park
1632 North Sawyer
$165,000 - Area Median Income must be at or below 80% to purchase (income chart above.
3 bedrooms, 11/2 bath, unfinished basement
Energy efficient constructions.
Please call Raul Echevarria if interested in property at 708.522.4873.
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And remember...
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You can visit us online for information on the CCLT.
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