New year, old challenges

By Peggy Zabicki

Your correspondent in West Lawn

3633 W. 60th Place • (773) 504-9327

It’s a new year and a time for new beginnings. Many of us will be starting a new diet program. I plan to do this as soon as I’m done eating the remaining Christmas candy and cookies at my house. Wish me luck!

West Lawn Park has their new 2022 activities schedule ready. There will be a variety of classes, exercise programs and sports for all ages. It is best to go there in person and pick up a winter schedule. West Lawn Park requires everyone to bring a personal vaccination report in order to sign up for any classes. Call for more information at (773) 284-2803.

Has anyone visited the Southwest Senior Center at 61st and Kedzie? I got a few calls before Christmas from seniors who would like to go there for exercise classes. I was told by one neighbor that there is nothing going on at the facility.

I called twice and got no answer. I also checked the City of Chicago website and couldn’t find any information. I haven’t had a chance to visit in person, but a friend told me that she went there and inquired at the front desk about the classes and also about the meals they used to serve. She was told by a woman behind the desk that she has no information. Hopefully, the city has not forgotten about Southwest Side seniors.

Another ongoing problem is loose dogs. Every single day last year and now this year there are reports of missing dogs and sightings of loose dogs. Irresponsible dog owners really need to take care of their pets. I feel sorry for the dogs. If you see a loose dog, call 311 with a description and approximate location.

One more problem: the Bank of America branch at 6115 S. Pulaski is still closed. Those who do need to do their banking business in person have had to travel to another neighborhood and stand in long lines.

I emailed Bank of America on Dec. 27, but I haven’t heard back. I called a number that the bank sent to my husband. I heard a recorded message stating that no messages can be left at that number. If I am ever successful in getting any information, I’ll let you know. I’d like to close my account there. This is really poor customer service.

Envision Community Services, 4324 W. 63rd St., is now offering help in finding a job, being prepared for job interviews and more. They will be offering informational meetings at their second location, 5680 S. Archer, on Tuesdays and Thursdays. Call (312) 373-0887 for more information or sign up online at envisioncs.org.

The Calvary Lutheran Church senior club would like to extend Pat Nielsen, Norma Lopez and Pat Losh happy January birthday wishes. May the dear Lord bless each of you this month and all year through with good health and happiness.

West Lawn neighbor Jose P. shared this new year’s wish to all: “Wishing you 12 months of success, 52 weeks of laughter, 365 days of fun, 8,760 hours of joy, 525,600 minutes of good luck, and 31,536,000 seconds of happiness.”