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2008 - 2011
AN OPINIONATED VIEW OF
WHAT'S HAPPENING &
WHAT PEOPLE ARE SAYING!
~ CHRONOLOGICAL POSTINGS - NEWEST INFO AT THE TOP ~
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NOTE: We sometimes have a difficult time returning email to HOTMAIL accounts,
since it's rejected as spam.
You may need to add our email address to your
address book if you'd like a return email.
CHRISTMAS MORNING, 12-25-11
TWO DEAD and ONE WOUNDED
at the VICTOR HOTEL NIGHTCLUB
311 N Sangamon (3 blocks West of Halsted & 2 blocks North of Lake)
Man Questioned After Fatal Shooting Outside Nightclub
by NBC Chicago on December 25, 2011
Shots were fired at about 1:30 a.m. Sunday outside the Victor Hotel nightclub, at 311 N. Sangamon St., following an argument,
said Chicago police spokesman John Mirabelli.
Two men who were shot in the chest were pronounced dead at John H. Stroger Jr. Hospital of Cook County. They were identified as José Duckins, 30,
of the 3600 block of West Franklin Boulevard, and Robert Warren, 34, of the 7300 block of North Damen Avenue.
November 1, 2011
Wednesday - Nov 16 at 10am - City Hall, 121 N LaSalle, Room 805
Fulton/Halsted Residents Rally for Another Community meeting
about the MID Nightclub, 306 N Halsted
Neighbors
In preparation for our next Community Meeting with The City of Chicago, Dept. of Business Affairs and Consumer Protection
regarding The MID, please send me any incident reports/disturbances including date/time, photo, video, the issue and if you called 911.
We are tracking this in a journal to present to The City. The situation with The MID is NOT improving and we need to remain consistent with our complaints.
We had an overwhelming attendance at the last meeting and it was noticed.
PLEASE ATTEND THE MEETING SO WE CAN SAVE OUR NEIGHBORHOOD FROM THE NEGATIVE QUALITY OF LIFE ISSUES.
Thanks for making this a priority!
Erin
740 Fulton Condo Resident
erinbowler@aol.com
October 13, 2011
KNIFE STABBING inside PLUSH "Restaurant" (Nightclub),
1104 W Madison
• Chicago Tribune & WGN Video: Man stabbed in West Loop lounge
• NBC Chicago: Man Critically Stabbed at Chicago Club
• The Huffington Post: Chicago Lounge Stabbing (VIDEO)
• Chicago Journal: Man stabbed at Plush in West Loop
"Burnett says incident is a 'stake in their coffin' for controversial club"
And recent problems with PLUSH are NOT the exception. There was a MURDER across from PLUSH in August of last year.
Neighbors have been complaining and organizing for FOUR years.
In a 1-26-11 CHICAGO JOURNAL article,
27th Ward Alderman Burnett called PLUSH a “restaurant that acts like a nightclub.”
Local West Loop residents have been meeting with the City in order to curb the violence and accompanying issues.
It's NOT rocket science...A BAD business is a BAD business.
NIGHTCLUB PROBLEMS ARE ALWAYS THE RESULT OF THE OWNER/MANAGEMENT.
They alone, are responsible for what happens inside AND outside their establishments. They set up the conditions for everything that happens with their business;
the clientele, the entertainment, the promoters, the dress code, the security protocol and the security staff. ALL problems are within owner/management control.
And it ALWAYS come down to $$$.
The greedier the owner/management, the more problems they have and the more they tend to blame some "OTHER" reason for their problems.
Unfortunately, the patrons & neighborhood residents pay the price.
Sept 21, 2011
Thursday - Oct 6 at 11am - City Hall in Room 805
Fulton/Halsted Residents Ready for 3rd Community meeting
about the MID Nightclub, 306 N Halsted
Neighbors
In preparation for our third Community Meeting with The City of Chicago, Dept. of Business Affairs
and Consumer Protection regarding The MID disturbances, I ask that you kindly jot down and send me any incident reports/disturbances
including date/time, photo, video, what was the issue and if you called 911. We are tracking this in an all inclusive log journal
to present to the City. The MID management is now claiming that the 'neighboring clubs' are causing the noise -- that is ridiculous.
Sample journal entry is shown below:
September 11th - 2:30-4:00am
Woke up due to: Loud Music from Street level/ Loud voices
Additionally witnessed: Cab line ALL honking simultaneously. (VIDEO!), poor traffic flow due to traffic director slacking/ police vehicles parked
in the cab lane, motors revving loudly.
PLEASE ATTEND THE MEETING SO WE CAN SAVE OUR NEIGHBORHOOD FROM THE NEGATIVE QUALITY OF LIFE ISSUES.
Thanks for making this a priority!
Erin
740 Fulton Condo Resident
erinbowler@aol.com
July 24, 2011
Fulton/Halsted Residents Rally to Control the MID Nightclub,
Located at 306 N Halsted
Dear Neighbors
A reminder that the next MID Community Meeting will be held at CITY HALL, Room 805 on August 4 at 11:00 am
This weekend was interesting, Friday night was not good, they started rehearsing at about 9:00pm with bass levels at an all time high and continued with the booming
bass until the usual 4am. I texted Nick numerous times, he told me he would call over there and make sure 'the doors were not open' which sounds like a good excuse.
The bass was so loud my living room windows were shaking. Saturday night was a better -- very low bass -- then the thunderstorms started (thank you Mother Nature)
which blocked out any music noise. I called 911 both nights and watched the squad cars arrive and shake hands with the doormen (the usual routine).
I've had it with The MID and can't wait to hear about the installation of the required ID SCANNER
they must secure -- it wasn't in place last night. I am also interested in hearing about the Basset Training of all staff members -- watched a drunk patron
stumble down Halsted Street last night (the security guy in the vest made darn sure he stepped all the way down to Fulton).
Looking forward to your comments and seeing you at the meeting. Thanks for making this a priority!
740 Fulton Condo Resident
February 1, 2011
URGENT - IMMEDIATE ACTION NEEDED!
Dear L&H
It's been a brutal start to the new year for those of exposed to The MID (formerly know as Mannequin). They kicked off their
Grand Opening launch with a NY Eve bash, crowds gathered, traffic congested on halsted, drunks, smokers, horns -- it was mayhem until 5am!
You got it, they secured a 5am liquor license on the weekend and 4am during the week. The website confirms it all
(themidchicago.com) including
"Freak Boutique Monday's" -- nice way to kick off my work week! The accident on Saturday night might help us build our case as
we are meeting with Alderman Burnett on Feb 3, Thursday at 5:30pm at his office at 1463 W Chicago Ave.
I urge you to spread the word on this meeting,
the police commander is scheduled to attend and the media has been alerted. It gets better, rapper ICE CUBE is scheduled to perform next month --
you want to see a shoot out? Stay tuned, this following is as rough as it gets!
If Ald. Burnett wants to be re-elected he better act fast. Another shoot-out in the Ward would be a terrible campaign headline.
Lastly, looks like the revamped music venue is also being used by our future Mayor, Rahm rented it out last Monday for a fundraiser --
the Rahm-haters were out and the media showed up then . . . this is NOT the last time they will be at The MID.
HELP PROTECT OUR NEIGHBORHOOD
AND SHOW UP AT THE MEETING ON FEB 3rd!
Fulton/Halsted Resident
January 17, 2011
follow-up (former) Mannequin Nightclub
(Now "The MID at 306 N Halsted)
Happy New Year L&H -- as predicted, Mannequin Nightclub has reopened as MID
(themidchicago.com) on New Year's Eve and the madness returns. They are advertising a 4:00am
liquor license and are open on the weekends and weekdays. Monday nights are "Freak Boutique Monday' and judging by the motley crew waiting in the line . . .
they are freaks! The bass of the DJ is blasting through my windows, the Valet parkers are clogging Halsted Street and the noise continues until the wee hours.
I spoke with Jessie Smart at Alderman Burnett's office and he has been of no help other than to tell me to call 911. Looks like it's gonna take a gunshot or
one of the Jersey Shore look-a-like's to tumble down the metal staircase they installed. He told me the Greek family who owned this building sold it --
looks like the Russians have arrived. He also told me the Chief of Police reviewed the license and it's valid.
I encourage my neighbors to call 911 and complain.
Sleepless on Fulton Street
From the EDITOR:
Dear Sleepless,
Sounds like things are NOT getting off to a good start...which means it will likely go down from here. Unfortunately the CPD CAPS office staff was
reduced by over half, but the CPD is still your best advocate. I encourage you to go to your CAPS meeting! It will take you and your neighbors getting involved
to get it under control.
Start here!
December 22, 2010
New Mannequin &
New Bar Opening at NW Corner of Lake and Halsted
First of all, thank you for all of the work you have been doing in the neighborhood,
even though I have only been a resident in the area for 14 months.
My wife and I have been watching all of the "happenings" at Mannequin over the past couple of months (we have a birds-eye view from 740 W Fulton)
and have called 311 to report the lack of a properly displayed building permit (not sure that they even have a building permit) and have seen the
police go there twice, only for the work to continue (sometimes in the middle of the night) w/ what is likely illegal or at the very least non-union workers.
We are concerned about what is going on and will now try to call and email Alderman Burnett, as only bad things can come out of this,
in addition to the Victor Hotel Lounge down the street, where we can see plenty of "suspicious" activity going on at night.
I was also curious if you knew what might be going in at the NW corner of Lake and Halsted. Looks like it could be a normal restaurant / bar,
but was unable to find anything online.
Thanks.
Local Resident
UPDATE 12-29-10:
...looks like The Mid will occupy Mannequins old space:
http://www.themidchicago.com/
From the EDITOR:
I'd like to tell you that writing your 27th Ward Alderman, Walter Burnett, would do some good.
Unfortunately I can't. Best advice I can offer can be found HERE!
And to answer your 2nd Question, about what is being built at the NW corner of Lake & Halsted,
unfortunately I have firsthand knowledge, since they will be my new "neighbor". After contending with Shadow Bar and Chromium,
I thought I'd paid my dues - especially with "neighbors" that sue you after you catch THEM
breaking the law.
Since you asked...meet our new neighbor.
11-22-10
Former Mannequin Nightclub
(306 N Halsted) Planning to REopen
Hello Lakeandhalsted -- love your website and truly appreciate the effort put into maintaining this for our neighborhood. Did you know that
Mannequin Nightclub on Fulton and Wayman street is re-opening?
Yep, the construction crew confirmed it on Saturday afternoon and I am disgusted!
Just when I was catching up on my peaceful beauty sleep, bam, the house music, euro-trash club returns. I was on the committee last year with
Alderman Burnett and closed them down. The building is owned by a Greek family and is run by family members . . . right down to Nick the bartender.
I called the Alderman's office today and left a message for Jessie Smart. Jessie managed the case last year and hopefully will be 'smart enough'
to not let this trashy bar with a 4:00am liquor license to re-open.
The club was shut down for: improper insulation on the ceiling for noise control, Valet parking issues on Halsted St.
(they were trying to make Wayman St. a two-way street and relocate the Valet), disorderly conduct with drunks in the street and guns a swinging and
lastly the garbage trucks picking up the bottles at 5:30am every Sunday!
Can you do a shout out on your site and encourage all neighbors to call Jessie Smart at Ald. Burnett's office
312-432-1995 and COMPLAIN?
Be well. Peace.
Erin
From the EDITOR:
Dear Erin,
While I wish I could tell you there won't be any problems...we both know that's not reality. If a club with past problems reopens under the same ownership,
it's a good chance that it will be "business as usual". New clubs are always choosey about their patrons when they first open. As attendance wanes, the
owners need to make choices about promotions and music to increase and keep their patrons. Responsible clubs make "responsible" choices. Irresponsible clubs
make irresponsible choices: whether it be cutting back on security or admitting anyone with a buck.
Clubs with a 4 AM license are allowed to stay open till 5 AM on Sunday mornings only. 4 AM clubs typically attract patrons who've already been drinking
and come from a club with a 2 AM license.
You have an advantage in monitoring the Mannequin location, since there are many residents nearby. Please read the 10-7-10 post below for some background info
and suggestions on how to proceed. Keep us up-to-date.
11-7-10
Rednofive Nightclub
It is very early in the morning hours and I have had the unfortunate opportunity of finding your website.
It is an extremely impressive website and I appreciate the time and effort you have put into it. I just wish I didn't have to find the
website because it means I researching night club issues in the greater West Loop area.
I just want to express my concern about the nightclub Rednofive on Halsted and Hubbard. I have lived nearby for 3 years now and have shrugged off
the late night yelling and screaming from people leaving the club in the early hours. But, tonight my husband, 18 month old and I were woken up
by 4 gunshots being fired off outside our home. This club is just bad news and it is had problems before and I just don't want to see things
continue to escalate.
I did call 911 and make an online complaint, but I also wanted to write you to get the word out there.
Thanks for listening.
Area Resident
From the EDITOR:
Sorry you had to find this website under the circumstances you describe. We've had similar complaints about REDNOFIVE. (see the 5-11-09
post below)
You did the right thing by calling 911 and making an online complaint!
It would help to encourage your neighbors to follow through as well. The more residents that complain, the more likely it will be that some action is taken.
The next step would be to call the CAPS office of the 13th Police District and talk directly to someone there. We've had a great deal of success with the CPD
follow-through in the 12th District. I would also encourage you and your neighbors to write your 27th Ward Alderman, Walter Burnett.
Please let us know if you get results.
(NOTE: REDNOFIVE, 440 N Halsted, is in the 13th Police District)
10-7-10
New Nightclub Opening in our Neighborhood, I'm Concerned
Hello,
I've followed your work at lakeandhalsted.com for a while now. I recently saw on metromix that a new nightclub is being opened at 858 w. lake street.
Apparently the same people that own the building are reopening it (they previously had Reserve, Veil, Theatro and The Embassy in this location,
all of which drew the wrong kind of crowd to our neighborhood).
Their website (operaultralounge.com) is promoting an opening party hosted by a porn star,
so I can already see they are planning to continue running a less than reputable establishment. Any suggestions how we can stop this from opening?
I have been encouraged by the recent restaurant openings around us, and I would hate to see the area take a step backwards.
Thanks,
Anne
10-7-10 - follow-up
By the way, they apparently have already changed the name now (two weeks before they are supposed to open)
from Opera to 8fifty8, this also looks like a bad sign to me.
From the EDITOR:
Dear Anne,
Unfortunately we've got BAD News, MORE BAD News and STILL MORE BAD News...but there ARE lots of things you CAN do about it!
BAD # 1: Since it appears the previous owner, or at least the same group, is opening the club,
they bypassed many of the requirements for opening a new club.
Read our Homepage Pop-up: CLOSED: The TRUTH behind the CHROMIUM NITECLUB CLOSING.
Scroll down to the bottom: "The REALLY Fine Print". If this is the case, there is nothing you can do now, to stop them from opening.
Some "club" owners also circumvent the process by serving food, which classifies them as a restaurant. This is what the former CLUB ROYALE "Sushi Bar" did.
(see the 10-25-08 post farther down this page) The "Sushi Bar" bar was located in the same building as "8fifty8" and was run by the building's owner.
BAD # 2: Just last week, the Chicago Police Dept reduced the number of Officers in the CAPS/Community Policing program.
These are the officers who followed through with the ongoing nightclub problems. During our entire struggle with the local nightclub problems,
the 12th District CPD have been our main source of support and advocacy. Read my Editorial:
CAPS Officers are Chicago’s Best Defense Against Crime! YOU SHOULD STILL CONTACT THEM!
Unfortunately, the CPD won't have the staff to follow-through as much as they've so diligently done in the past. If this makes you angry (AS IT SHOULD),
voice you opinion to: Ronald Holt, Director of CAPS
AND Jody Weis, Superintendent of Police
Police Headquarters; 3510 S. Michigan Ave.; Chicago, IL 60653
BAD # 3: With limited CPD resources, you also need to voice concern to 27th Ward Alderman Walter Burnett.
And contact Alderman Burnett DIRECTLY via email. You can read
about our experience dealing with the Alderman's Office, in the Homepage pop-up linked in "THE HOT TOPICS":
WHAT'S THE ALDERMAN DOING? Maybe you'll have better luck with the Alderman than we did.
So what CAN you do?!?!?!?!?!
• DON'T be discouraged! Read the TAKE ACTION page. Then make some NOISE! MAKE LOTS OF NOISE! You have to stand up for yourself!
• Work WITH the 12th District CPD, they are your best advocate.
• CALL 911...if you were like me, you believed the only reason to call 911 was if you saw a murder in progress. DON'T
expect to have 10 squad cars show up in 30 seconds if you report a guy piddling on the street. You're likely calling at peek hours, when there are lots of
other things going on in the City. BUT EVEN IF YOU DON'T SEE AN IMMEDIATE RESPONSE, YOUR CALL WILL BE COUNTED AND THESE TALLIES ARE USED IN ALL LEGAL
PROCEEDINGS. IT ABSOLUTELY DOES MAKE A DIFFERENCE TO CALL 911!!!
• Fill out The CITIZEN COMPLAINT FORM, linked on the TAKE ACTION page. Tell ALL your neighbors to send in the form!
The MORE, the better! Then demand a meeting with the Chicago Department of BUSINESS AFFAIRS & CONSUMER PROTECTION. When the FORMER Mannequin Nightclub,
across from the Fulton-Halsted Condos, starting acting up, the condo owners rallied together. They filled a room for the City Hall meeting and Mannequin
voluntarily closed down. There IS strength in numbers.
• DOCUMENT the problems! Read our 8-19-09 entry below, about the Uptown residents who videotaped local problems and then took the tape to the PRESS.
No Alderman wants Chuck Goudie featuring one of their regular contributors on the evening news. Use the media!
• There are legitimate club operators who respect the neighborhood. But the climate in the city has changed regarding those clubs who routinely have
problems. They are no longer tolerated. It's NOT the time to sit back...you KNOW what's coming.
And as far as the sudden name change, from "Opera" to "8fifty8"...we wonder why none of the club's owners bothered to check that Jerry Kleiner already has an
"Opera" restaurant in Chicago? Perhaps the "8fifty8" owners were too busy reviewing the resumes of upcoming headliners.
For those unaware of the prior & successive 858 W Lake Street Clubs (Reserve, Veil, Theatro...):
• scroll down this page to the 3-1-09 articles: "PAYOFFS, FEDS, PONZI SCHEMES..."
• check out our 2007 News & Views page: The 10-5-07 Post with a Tribune article and the
7-27-07 Tribune article.
We're here if you need us.
May 15, 2010
The SHADOW BAR is Closed.
PERMANENTLY CLOSED!
'nuff said
3-4-10
Pending Eviction!
The SHADOW BAR, located at 811 W Lake
(next to the closed down CHROMIUM NIGHTCLUB)
is currently in court for nonpayment of rent.
It's been slow-going for the club this past year,
with several pending building violations and a reduction in
SHADOW BAR'S occupancy permit to 99.
(that's about ONE QUARTER of the people previously allowed to occupy
the club - when all the fighting occurred)
SHADOW BAR tried a venue change after last year's NEW YEAR'S DAY MURDERS, when
2 people were shot to death outside of the club.
Change came too late.
JANUARY 21, 2010
ON THE RADIO!
Outside the Loop RADIO
WLUW 88.7-FM
"Chicago’s Almost Above-Ground Audio Magazine"
Find out what's happening in the neighborhood NOW...
Host MIKE STEPHAN interviews our Editor
LISTEN! to Episode #174
(story starts 2/3 way into podcast)
8-19-09
From Lake & Halsted in the West Loop, To Our Uptown Neighbors
We've received several calls and email over the past couple of days, asking if we've seen last week's viral VIDEO of the street fighting
in the Uptown neighborhood of Chicago. With all the recent press,
it would be difficult NOT to have seen the video.
Some have compared the gang fights to those on this site and wondered how ONE video could get all the press, while it took 5 years
and a full website of videos to make a difference for the Lake & Halsted neighborhood. There are 3 main differences:
1: Until the first nightclub murder in August 2007, we chose NOT to go to the press,
believing the problems could be resolved through the customary measures. Unfortunately, this was NOT the case.
2: The Uptown conflict conspicuously involves the Alderman, and politics always makes for good press.
Where was our Alderman through FIVE YEARS of our problems? We're not sure.
3: Most importantly, the Uptown street fighting was witnessed by a multitude of people who ultimately GOT INVOLVED.
While the Lake & Halsted neighbors, together with the 12th District CPD DID rally to the cause, there were far fewer residents who lived nearby
and only ONE resident who lived directly across the street to witness the fighting firsthand.
As that one resident types this Editorial, she would like to commend the residents of Uptown for standing up, joining together
and fighting for their neighborhood. Your Lake & Halsted neighbors applaud you! Violence can only continue if unchallenged.
KEEP UP THE GOOD FIGHT!
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7-16-09
ANOTHER Local Nightclub is CLOSED!
The MANNEQUIN NIGHTCLUB at 306 N. Halsted
decided to permanently close their doors following CITY HALL meetings
with the BACP (Business Affairs & Consumer Protection)
that were initiated by local neighbors,
particularly the VOTERS and condo owners
living directly across the street at FULTON & HALSTED...
proving one again,
THERE IS STRENGTH IN NUMBERS!
BUT GET READY FOR ANOTHER ROUND - The owners of MANNEQUIN are attempting to sell the building WITH the current LATE NIGHT Liquor License.
That means the new owners will also be able to stay open till 4:00 AM every morning, and 5:00 AM on Sunday morning.
And still ANOTHER nightclub may REopen...
Remember the CLUB ROYALE Nightclub... er... "sushi bar" on Peoria, just north of Lake Street? Evidently residents of The Lake Street Lofts,
located directly across the street, will need to decide if they want another "club" at that location. Plans are in the works.
7-14-09
Hi,
I live in River West, a little north of you, near Halsted and Erie. I just wanted to send you an email to let you know how much I appreciate what you are doing with lakeandhalsted.com.
We're far enough from the clubs that we don't have to listen to the nighttime noise. But the daytime aftermath is horrible. I worked near Lake and May in the nineties and I can remember what
the neighborhood was like before the clubs moved in. The garbage the nightclubs generate is overwhelming. And rolling a baby stroller over used condoms on the sidewalk is just depressing.
Anyway, keep fighting the good fight. And thank you.
Kelly
6-13-09
3 blocks from Lake & Halsted, an early AM West Loop BAR FIGHT results in
FOUR STABBING VICTIMS
at the COLUMBUS GRILL, 651 W Washington at Desplaines
• 6/13/09 Ch 7 TV ABC Video
• 6/13/09 Ch 5 TV NBC News
• 6/13/09 Ch 2 TV CBS News
• 6/13/09 TRIBUNE Article
(Columbus Grill is located in the 1st Police District)
5-31-09
ANOTHER Nightclub-Related MURDER!
Randal Ewing, 34, of the 9900 block of South Throop
was found shot in a car on the 900 block of West Lake, around 3:00 AM, Sunday 5/31.
Reports say he had just left a local nightclub,
the VICTOR HOTEL.
5-11-09
A Nightclub GANG FIGHT, STABBING, SHOOTING, BEATING
& someone is RUN DOWN BY A CAR...
ALL in ONE Night...
ALL at ONE Nightclub!!!
Read about what happed this past weekend at
REDNOFIVE, located North on Halsted, over the bridge. With a late night license, they're open till 5:00 AM Sunday mornings.
• 5/11/09 Sun-Times STORY
• 5/11/09 CBS2 STORY
(REDNOFIVE, 440 N Halsted, is in the 13th Police District)
The GOOD NEWS...all remains quiet at Lake & Halsted
3-1-09
PAYOFFS, FEDS, PONZI SCHEMES...
THE LAKE STREET NIGHTCLUB DRAMA CONTINUES
CHICAGO TRIBUNE REPORTER, John Kass reports the owner of the
RESERVE NIGHTCLUB, at 858 W LAKE was jailed, under investigation by the Feds,
for a Ponzi scheme,
costing his clients almost $3 million!
• 2/26/09 TRIBUNE ARTICLE
• 2/27/09 WGN News STORY
• 3/1/09 TRIBUNE ARTICLE
2-16-09
UPDATE on Latest Two Nightclub Murders...
SHADOW BAR
Voluntarily closed for two weeks after the 1-1-09 Shooting. The Club owner reports they fired their DJs, Promoters, most of their Security and
no longer have a HipHop music venue. They have since reopened Saturday nights with a Gay venue and are exploring options for other nights.
(SHADOW BAR is located in the 12th Police District)
The TRANSIT NIGHTCLUB
reportedly reopened later, the same day of the 1-30-09 Shooting.
(TRANSIT is located just west of Ogden Ave., in the 13th Police District)
JANUARY 30, 2009
ANOTHER
NIGHTCLUB SHOOTING & MURDER!
THE SECOND MULTIPLE SHOOTING AND DEATH
ALONG LAKE STREET THIS MONTH!!!
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At 2:30 AM on 1/30/09, a shooting occurred INSIDE the TRANSIT NIGHTCLUB, 1431 West Lake St.
Initial reports indicate TWO people were shot and one person killed. (Some reports indicate a 3rd person was injured)
• READ THE
1/30/09 CHICAGO TRIBUNE ARTICLE
• READ THE
1/30/09 CHICAGO SUN-TIMES ARTICLE
• READ THE 1/30/09 CBS 2 Chicago ARTICLE
• READ THE 1/30/09 ABC 7 NEWS STORY
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1-29-09
MORE Neighborhood Club Problems...
Complaints from local residents about the MANNEQUIN NIGHTCLUB, 306 N. Halsted, prompted
a Public Hearing at CITY HALL with the BACP (Business Affairs & Consumer Protection), FORMERLY the DBA (Dept of Business Affairs & Licensing); the City agency issuing Business & Liquor Licenses),
and the 12th DISTRICT CHICAGO POLICE.
(MANNEQUIN is 1 block north of Lake Street)
READ THE 1/7/09 CHICAGO JOURNAL ARTICLE:
"First '09 homicide
Shootings near Lake Street refocus attention on nightclubs"
By MICAH MAIDENBERG, Editor
JANUARY 1, 2009
NEW YEAR'S DAY SHOOTING!
ONE VICTIM DEAD
2nd VICTIM CRITICAL, SHOT IN THE FACE
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On the afternoon of New Year's Eve, the City of Chicago Department of Buildings reduced
SHADOW BAR'S Occupancy Permit to 99. This is about
a quarter of the previous number of people allowed to occupy the 811 W. Lake Street nightclub.
We expected a quiet night... unfortunately, we were wrong.
Though we hadn't set our Sonycam in the window to record, the early morning events WERE recorded on our ADT
security system and the video has been turned over to the Chicago Police. Since an investigation is ongoing,
this video is NOT posted on this website or YouTube.
Witnesses report gunshots were fired 1-1-09 at about 2:15 AM, just after patrons exited SHADOW BAR.
One victim was found dead on Green Street, just south of Lake and a second victim was found nearby, shot in the face. Investigations are underway by the
Chicago Police Area 4 Detective Division.
• WATCH THE 1/1/09 ABC Channel 7 10:00 PM NEWS for details
• READ THE
1/1/09 CHICAGO TRIBUNE ARTICLE
• READ THE
1/1/09 CHICAGO SUN-TIMES ARTICLE
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12-25-08
SILENT NIGHTS...
QUIET HOLIDAY IN THE HOOD?
The SHADOW BAR
was temporarily closed Thursday, 12/18,
just before a scheduled NELLY Concert...ouch!
SHADOW BAR REOPENED CHRISTMAS EVE after Exit Door code violations were corrected.
10-25-08
We Hate To Say "We Told You So"...
But We Will!
SEEMS LIKE JUST A FEW SHORT MONTHS AGO The Lake Street Lookout disclosed
some new businesses were posing as "RESTAURANTS" to avoid the local moratorium for new tavern/club/bar liquor licenses.
And when CLUB ROYALE, at Lake & Peoria, applied for a liquor license as a "SUSHI BAR",
we objected and reported something smelled "FISHY".
Evidently residents of The Lake Street Lofts, located directly across the street from the CLUB ROYALE "Sushi Bar",
are downwind from the smell. Resident complaints of loud music and rowdy patrons resulted in investigation by the CPD Vice Unit.
Want OUR Advice?
(you KNOW we're going to give it anyway!) Read the
TAKE ACTION page and work with the 12th District Police to Voice your Complaints.... DON'T wait till things get completely out of control.
You have the RIGHT to live peacefully... and that's NO Fish Story!
7-17-08
WOMAN SHOT IN THE LEG
The CHICAGO JOURNAL reports Chicago Police were searching for two men after an early-morning shooting on the 800 block of Randolph,
1/2 block south of Lake St.
On July 18 at 1:45 AM, two men approached a female in her thirties. A struggle ensued and after taking property from the woman, one of the offenders fled. Shots were fired,
hitting the woman in her leg. The victim was taken to the hospital.
No one is in custody for the crime, which was turned over to investigators from the Area 4 Police Department. Shadow Bar was not open at the time of the incident.
Following the incident, the Randolph Street restaurant owners and community organizations rallied together and demanded a City Hall meeting at Alderman Burnett's office.
This Editor questions why the same community outrage was not evident after the 8-19-07 murder of the young man outside the nightclubs.
4-16-08
U did what was rite!!
You're well being and you're sanity is what was at stake!!!
Chromium was a cancer to the neighborhood!! Keep being an
inspiration to many people!!!!! I guess one person can change the
world!!! Or at least one block at a time!!!!
Neighborhood Resident
4-1-08
I am so upset when I woke up from the noise late Saturday early Sunday morning.
I thought this was over!
After weeks traveling I came back to my West Loop apartment and can't sleep.
It's also scary around those clubs and I don't feel safe in this neighborhood when they are open.
Why can't someone buy that building and turn it into retail or a restaurant that serves upscale food?
Please help!
Area resident
2-14-08
Suspect arrested in Chromium murder
Will face charge of homicide in the first degree
By MICAH MAIDENBERG, Editor
Lake Street nightclub murder solved
Read the 2-4-08 UIC Chicago Flame article
by Alex Mariscal
1-17-08
A friend turned me on to your website
and I wanted to take a second to say how scary it must be for you to live there!
Have you ever thought of selling the videos? There's tons of that sort of dvd out there "hood fights" and whatnot.
The whole dvd is just people fighting in cities and stuff like that. Maybe you could take the proceeds and move out
of there for your safety. Don't you ever think about that? I live in the suburbs and never get out to the city at all,
your videos make me glad I don't!
Anyway, take care, and again - great site!
Murphy
EDITOR:
Hi Murphy: I appreciate your concern for my safety. I've never considered selling the videotapes since
I made them to try and STOP the violence, not perpetuate, endorse or glorify it. As far as moving,
I've no plans to do so. I love my neighborhood and it's worth fighting for. Chicago is a great city and the videotapes
represent one problem, that unfortunately, has taken too long to resolve. I hope you'll consider visiting the City again, especially
the West Loop. And if you behave, I promise not to put you on YouTube. Best Wishes!
Many have asked the same QUESTIONS!
ANSWERS TO SOME OF YOUR "HOW-TO" QUESTIONS ABOUT THIS WEBSITE'S DOCUMENTATION...
1-16-08
Hello and Questions
I just want to say GREAT WORK and way to be persistent!
We have a smaller club on the North side which has been a pain for 3 years now.
We have had 4 community hearings with Commissioner Bruner and nothing ever changes.
These owners behave once they are being watched and are out of control when no one is around. So we continue to document
items and complain, but most residents are getting sick of the process and simply moving.
Our biggest issues are traffic issues, fighting, noise and basically bad behavior by the patrons.
We continue to call the police but we, like you, think the police have bigger issues and that the bar's security should
be more responsible. And who would ever allow a 2 AM bar on a residential street would seem to be insane, right?
It was a grand-fathered license I guess.
And yes we have had the threats to women on our street as well.
We are pretty tired of it and are documenting more issues.
QUESTIONS FOR YOU:
1) Any advice on where / how to place a camera? We have several key spots to use and would like to take advantage of
them but have no idea on the type of technology to use and how to turn them on/off and gather pictures for reference.
EDITOR: I was technically clueless when this whole ordeal began
and started recording with my portable video camera as a means of self-preservation after my storefront windows were smashed out.
I put my Sony Handycam video recorder on automatic remote, set to "nightshots" with a wide-angle lens and placed it on my windowsill, aimed
at the clubs. The camera used cassettes that recorded for 1-1/2 hours, so I'd need to put in another tape to record
anything past that. Recording the fighting was initially unplanned, and incidental!
Neither entering/leaving my building nor trying to sleep was usually an option when the clubs were open, since there was
always commotion on the streets. I'd needed to schedule my entire personal life around when the nightclubs were open.
You'll notice many of the videos show no camera movement for some or all of the footage,
since I wasn't operating the camera when the incidents were recorded. Contrary
to speculation, I never actually sat in my window, waiting for something to happen. If I heard a commotion, I'd go to the window
and zoom in by hand to see if I could get a closer shot of the problem. This is why I missed most of the fighting close-ups.
The zooming in/out and panning around only occurred after there was a disturbance and I started operating the camera by hand.
When the 8/19/07 homicide occurred, I was standing in the street, talking to a policeman and was filmed in the video.
I provided VHS tapes to the DBA and CPD by copying directly from my camera's cassettes to a VHS tape in a
VHS recorder. All my on-line videos were made on my MAC with iMovie.
Most web hosts (including Yahoo, which I use) won't upload more than a 5 MB file, so the videos
on my original site were very small.
Here's an example. I started adding the videos to YouTube.com last year when I discovered I could upload videos up to a 100 MB.
I wasn't really familiar with YouTube at the time and had no idea how many people would be viewing the videos or the impact they
would have with a wider audience.
After using my Handycam for a while, I decided it was too much work and installed an ADT security
system to my building which records 24/7 from 4 different cameras. Unfortunately, when making digital copies of the the
ADT files, the system automatically embeds a navigation system which
can only be viewed with a PC (not my MAC). I can view incidents on the ADT screen and review the history, but can't make a copy
that will play on my MAC, from which I can make videos. There's probably a way to convert the files, but I never had the time to play around with it.
Another negative with the ADT system is the fact it doesn't have sound.
Many of the videos made from my Handycam were effective
BECAUSE of the crowd noise, traffic noise and police sirens. I'd sporadically leave the Handycam in the window after the ADT
system was installed, which is mainly why the number of on-line videos started decreasing in 2006. I recorded several other mob
fights on the ADT system that were never made into videos. I was able to provide copies of the incidents recorded with the ADT
system on a CD for the DBA and CPD to view on a PC.
Since my videotaping was random and based on my vantage point, I'd estimate my on-line
documentation to represent about FIVE PERCENT of the problems that actually occurred, with another FIVE PERCENT being archived on
my ADT CDs. What you see on this website is really the tip of the iceberg.
When I stopped recording as often with the Handycam, several people told me there were more problems on
the street because people didn't see my camera in the window.
That's when I set up a studio mannequin by the window, so the silhouette could be seen at night. It stood vigil all the time, with
a non-functioning camera prop. I may seem silly...but it was very effective because there were less problems when the nightclub
personnel believed someone was actually sitting there recording them. It all comes down to accountability.
After some research, I recently bought a new Sony Handycam with a digital hard drive.
I can set it to remote and record for up to 7 hours, without the expense of buying cassette tapes.
I've recorded a few nights with the new camera, but haven't had time to make them into videos, except for the recent
incident with more gunshots.
If you're lucky enough to be able to sleep when your local establishment is open, I recommend
a video camera with a hard drive that you can leave on remote.
In the morning, you can fast forward though the digital file to review, then either download it or
delete it. Most digital cameras do NOT work well at night or in dark areas, but the Sony has a "nightshots" setting which let's
you film in very low light. The new iMovie lets you burn a DVD on the computer, directly from the camera, so you don't need to fuss
with a video-making application unless you want to do some editing. This is the easiest
solution I know of, but I'm really a self-taught amateur at all of this. The objective is to get the documentation
with the LEAST amount of interference to your REAL life.
As far as this website, I'm neither a graphic artist nor web designer, so my efforts are basic,
but enough to get the point across. When I decided to upgrade the site from my
original simple design,
I tried to use
the endeavor to learn the basics of web design so I could use it later. While there's many things to improve upon, I've neither
the time or inclination to entirely change the web design again. Besides, it's really the content that I feel is important.
I intentionally designed the new site to be a bit "over the top", not to diminish the gravity of the situation, but rather to
accentuate the absurdity of these conditions being allowed to continue.
I hope some of this info is useful.
2) Are there any other good resources to draw upon to do research on the property
or the bar owners themselves. We know their names / where they live etc. but suspect some funny- business with them as well.
EDITOR:
That's a good question. In our case, the building and business owners divulged
much of the information themselves when questioned at public hearings and City Hall meetings. We were also provided info by
"concerned citizens". Having a website with an email address gave those with grievances a contact point to send info. Additional info was
gathered by attorneys when representing me against the frivolous lawsuit filed by Chromium. (info in the LITIGATION link) This was
another example of Chromium contributing to their own demise.
The property owner can be obtained through public records. Additional information on the licensee
can be obtained through the DBA
under the Freedom of Information Act.
You will need to request this info from the DBA in a formal letter.
3) If we post on your site, we may remain anonymous to begin but I suspect support
will grow (as well as evidence) - just an FYI.
EDITOR: You can always remain anonymous on THIS site! I NEVER post
any identifying info about someone unless they specifically give permission or request so. Might I suggest you look into a
simple on-line site so your neighbors will have a location to come together? (many sites are free if you don't mind the advertising)
When I started the lakeandhalsted.com website, I passed out flyers at the local CAPS meeting so neighborhood residents would
know about it.
I chose to remain anonymous, at first, since I didn't want the controversy associated with my business. I didn't try to hide my
identity with the nightclubs, neighborhood locals or the 12th District CPD. After the young man was shot to death on my corner,
I knew it was time to involve the press and the only way to do so was to go public with my name.
The most important piece of advice I can give you, is to unite with your neighbors.
You'll not only find support, but there IS
strength in numbers. It was initially difficult for me since I'm the only person living on my block. However, while I was the only
person who had a direct view of the nightclubs and fighting, there were other neighborhood residents who experienced many of the
same problems. As more people moved into the area, the support grew. You can also enlist the support of your local CPD,
Alderman and community organizations.
BUT DON'T UNDERESTIMATE THE POWER OF DOCUMENTING THE PROBLEMS!!!
When our neighborhood struggles began, it was "their" word against "ours"...but the problems couldn't be denied once they were documented.
You have every right to document what is happening in your street AND post it on-line WITHOUT anyone's permission. There is no
"Reasonable Expectation of Privacy" if the behaviors
in question were knowingly exposed to public view, as on a public street.
I naively assumed that putting the videos on-line would bring the incidents to the attention of the
appropriate City of Chicago officials whom I expected would put an IMMEDIATE end to the fighting. It DIDN'T happen! Tragically, after posting the
problems on the website for OVER TWO YEARS, there was NO significant intervention, other than the 12th District CPD. Commander
Sodini and his staff were working with attorneys from the Drug and Gang House Division. They had always been supportive, even
before there was anything on-line. Nevertheless, while the CPD could intercede with the problems, revoking a liquor license was not
within their jurisdiction. You indicated your community has already had FOUR meetings with DBA Commissioner Bruner and "nothing
ever changes". NOT unlike my community's struggles, it doesn't appear that working through the conventional channels will always
successful.
Had I known at the start, what I know now, I WOULD HAVE CONTACTED THE PRESS FROM THE VERY BEGINNING.
I wish I could tell you otherwise, but it seems that THE MORE PEOPLE WHO KNOW ABOUT THE PROBLEM, THE MORE LIKELY IT IS TO GET
RESOLVED.
And another important thing...try NOT to make it personal...stop it at their front door. I've always made it a point to comment only on
what happens in the street and in my neighborhood, and NOT comment on what happened inside the clubs. I spoke about the occupancy
limit of one club only AFTER if was brought up by the club management at a City Hall meeting. And the occupancy limit directly
impacts the number of people who will be on the street when the club closes. I never made complaints or calls about what happened INSIDE
the clubs. But once the clubs brought THEIR problems onto the street, to MY front door and into MY life, THEY made them MY problems and I
have every right to stand up and say something about it.
4) Did you hide a regular digital camera anywhere as well - somehow activated
by motion? any ideas you can share for technology would be great.
EDITOR: Again, I'm really operating from a low-tech
background. When I'd set the video camera on my windowsill, I'd place my still digital camera next to it. When I did go to the
window after a disturbance started, I'd sometimes pick up the camera to take a few photos. Often, the line of police cars
responding to a fight would be a block long, so I'd piece together a couple of photos to get the panoramic views.
I would understand if you need more information about me - We want to put our issues to bed before everyone moves
out of the neighborhood!
EDITOR: You've provided MORE than enough info. And sadly,
yours is NOT the only similar story sent to the website. Others have chosen to remain anonymous, fearful of reprisal. Feel free to
contact me with any additional questions, concerns or comments.
Thank you.
BP, Chicago
1-15-08
Twin Cities am1500 TALK RADIO
L+H Editor's LIVE 6 AM on-air interview - Willie & Jay Show
1-14-08
Good For You!
I just wanted to shoot a quick note and congratulate you for being persistent with cleaning up lake street night clubs.
I lived on Lake and Aberdeen for 3 years, and know first hand of the trouble that those clubs brought to the area,
with the litter from fast food bags just tossed on the street, to empty liquor bottles consumed on the way to the clubs,
to the constant public urination.
Many times my wife and I would not go out at night because of the element that was out there. I am in full agreement with you,
this nonsense needs to continue to be monitored and watched closely, as more and more families make their way to living in the
West Loop.
Please add me to any distribution lists you may have, as I would like to help in any way clean up the area, and not let others
abuse the place we call home.
Regards,
James Stout
neighbohood resident
Chicago Police Capture Gunman
of 8-19-07 Lake & Halsted Homicide!
Most likely, you came to this website because of the fighting videos,
you're a neighborhood resident or you've seen some of the recent press.
What HASN'T received enough attention, however,
is the fact there's been a great deal of behind-the-scenes work by the
12th District Chicago Police Department to
hold everything together, till other City departments were able to close Chromium.
Commander Sodini and dozens of
Officers have consistently worked with our neighborhood and other City agencies over the past 4 years.
We'd like to
give special thanks to TAC Officers Joe Corbett & Ken Fowler, who've been the main contacts, stationed outside the
clubs most Saturday nights.
And the capture of the 8-19-07 homicide gunman, is REALLY the story about all the police
work that went into capturing the shooter. CPD Area 4 Homicide Detectives, Gang Intelligence and
the Fugitive Division tracked the gunman for months after he left the Chicago area and were able to capture
him after he returned to Chicago's West Side.
Let's give 'em their PROPS!
|
Chicago Police Capture Gunman of 8-19-07 Lake & Halsted Homicide!
READ the 1-14-08 Sun-Times article by
Crime Reporter, Annie Sweeney:
"Late last week, Chicago Police said they solved the murder,
arresting a 23-year-old with deep ties to West Side gangs
after tracking him for months."
1-14-08
On 10-17-07 the ABC Channel 7, 10:00 PM NEWS featured
an I-Team story
by Investigative Reporter, CHUCK GOUDIE,
about problems at the Chromium Niteclub.
A follow-up story aired on 10-29-07 when Chromium agreed to forfeit their licenses.
CLICK THIS LINK TO WATCH ANOTHER FOLLOW-UP STORY:
“Police arrest suspect in nightclub murder”
1-14-08
MICHELLE GIELAN reports for FOX TV
on the 10:00 PM NEWS
CLICK THIS LINK TO WATCH THE STORY:
“West Loop Nightclub Closed Due to Efforts of One Woman”
1-14-08
VIEW the
ABCnews.com website
Law & Justice: Cameras Capture Chicago Nightclub Murder
A Chicago artist tries to stop street violence on her block.
1-7-08
Bravo
Good job. I live down the street, Lake and Canal and I've always hated driving by Chromium
on a weekend when it's closing time. And I'm a DJ!!!!! That club gave club patrons and promoters bad names.
Good for you.
djizzi
1-5-08
I just came across your website and felt compelled to write a quick note.
I am a former resident and business owner of the Lake and Halsted area. I now provide expert witness
and consultancy services for nightclubs, bars and casinos in Illinois and Nevada for liquor liability, dram shop and security.
I testified last last year as an expert witness in a case against Chromium nightclub where a patron outside the club was injured.
The case was won in short order, with the club being shown to be negligent in protecting their patrons, staff and the general public,
both in and outside of the club. The judgement against the Chromium Club supported my testimony which correlates with the assertions
made by your website - that Chromium Nightclub ownership and management has/had been negligent with the security and operation of
the Club which in turn has resulted in grievous bodily injury to an innocent bystander.
Such negligence it seems, has now resulted in the death of an innocent man. It is a terrible tragedy that could have been prevented
had the Club been diligent and exercised responsibility and sadly it comes as no surprise to me - based on my research and resultant
findings of Chromium's clubs operations - that this has happened.
I commend you for what you are doing. I would imagine your voice and that of your website has had some impact on the events that
lead up to Chromium club closing so you can be proud of the work you have done. Without being too melodramatic, it could very well
have resulted in the death of another innocent had the Club remained open.
That's my professional and personal opinion.
name withheld
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