Hello from Chicago!

Chicagoans joke that we only have three seasons—cold, colder, and hot. Well, the summer was hot and now we’re experiencing cold and colder. It seems we’ve skipped December and jumped straight to January. Besides temperatures way below average, there’s been 17.1 inches of snow which almost matches the total amount for last winter. Knowing how the weather can make traveling more challenging than it already is, I’ve put the suitcase away but before doing so attended the SCAD (Savannah College of Art and Design) Film Festival in Savannah, Georgia. In addition to seeing several films, I toured a charming city that’s been on my “To Visit” list since reading Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil. Savannah exceeded expectations. My only regret was not having enough time to explore more of the twenty-three park squares with their museums, monuments, and restored 18th and 19th century homes in the Historic Landmark District where I stayed.

Bird Girl Statue on display at the Telfair Museum

November 17th — Okay, this requires a little explanation. Recently, I knitted two baby afghans. One for my dental hygienist who makes my cleaning appointments as pleasant as possible thanks to flavored numbing topical. After completing a rainbow-inspired one for my friend Kevin who’s going to be an uncle for the first time, I realized someone else needed an afghan—ME! So, a trip to my neighborhood Michael’s where I chose yarn that would complement my paisley upholstered reading chair was how I spent my special day.

December 17th — I have a ticket for a performance of Handel’s Messiah by Camerata Chicago at St. Alphonsus Church in Lakeview. The program includes two performances of the Hallelujah Chorus with the audience being invited to participate the second time. Fortunately, I still remember the words from high school chorus class.

The U.S. Marshal Service was established by President George Washington in 1789 as the enforcement agency for the Federal Judiciary. Since its creation, the Marshals Service has provided court security, escorted prisoners, guarded witnesses, seized and managed forfeited property, and enforced court orders. During the years I worked at Headquarters in Washington, D.C. I got to know several deputies who were carrying out these responsibilities. While I’m reading, it’s cool to see the names of guys I remember working with. At the time, there were no female deputies. It’s also interesting to see how the Marshals Service has evolved and the success they’ve achieved in apprehending fugitives.

ICE activity in some American cities, including Chicago, has become a disturbing reality. When I returned from Savannah, the sign in the photo above was posted at the entrance to my apartment building. Throughout the neighborhood, several residential buildings and businesses posted similar notices. It’s heartbreaking that law-abiding individuals are being subjected to tactics that violate due process. Hopefully, the need for “No Trespassing” signs will soon end, but in the meantime, kudos to Mayor Johnson and Governor Pritzker for proactively working to protect the immigrants in our community.

Until next time — Here’s wishing you a peaceful Holiday Season however you choose to celebrate.

Sláinte!

Shawn