New art brightens old viaducts

By Mary Stanek

Your correspondent in Archer Heights and West Elsdon

3808 W. 57th Place • (773) 284-7394

I read an article (actually several) on how artwork can help stimulate our brains. Viewing art can create emotions and make positive impacts.

As some of you know, I was involved in the start-up plans for the mural at the 59^th and Central Park viaduct. Our committee met several times to pick the muralist who would be commissioned for the artwork.

But just the other day I took my dog, Oliver, for a walk to 58^th and Central Park. There is a beautiful mural located in that viaduct. So, I searched on 23^rd Ward Ald. Silvana Tabares’ website and I believe the muralist is Robert Valdez. The focus of the mural is Mexican folk art. So, if you are close by, take a walk on over to observe. It sure beats the old worn-out walls that used to be there. Thank you, Alderman.

The 23rd Ward’s new office at 3954 W. 63^rd St. had a great showing at the open house on the 16th. Many neighborhood folks along representatives of various organizations were present. Chicago Lawn (8^th) District Commander Bryan Spreyne was present, along with representatives of local schools like Tonti, Peck and Hubbard, just to name a few. Artwork was also displayed, and the local artists spoke about their work. Beverages and cakes were served, and the ribbon was cut!

This office is in addition to Ald. Tabares’ office at 6247 S. Archer.

Happy Birthday on the 27^th to Geno Randazzo, whom I met through his company (All Exterior Contractors) and to Diana Lechuga, whom I met through Peck School. During the height of the pandemic, Diana played an essential role in obtaining the free milk that was given out to the neighborhood.

Robert and I will be heading this weekend to North Central Park in Lawndale. Peck’s Panther Patch is registered to receive some free plants for its garden. So that means on the weekend we will be busy planting. The garden needs some fresh plants especially with color. We mostly have greenery for now. The little birds have turned into vultures. There are new bird feeders and if we fill them up by the very next day the seed is gone. And the moment of truth will be arriving soon. Did the exterminator completely get rid of the yellow jacket nest that was quite the nuisance last year? We shall see, yellow jacket season is soon approaching.

There will be a march against crime on Aug. 2 at West Lawn Park, 4233 W. 65^th St. The march starts at 6:30 p.m., but festivities will start earlier. There will be popcorn, snow cones raffles and fun. Robert and Oliver went last year and really enjoyed themselves.

This is all to support crime prevention in the Chicago Lawn (8^th) Police District. Everyone is invited.