PRESIDENT'S MESSAGE - SPRING 2009

From the President's Desk
by Rodger Owen,
Lincoln Central Association

Learning that the LCA board had elected me president was good news for sure. At the same time, the realization imbued in me a sense of heavy responsibility. LCA for so many years has been the advocacy voice for our neighborhood. Its tireless efforts are why our neighborhood is one of the city’s greatest, a neighborhood that gives us joy in our daily living.

We enjoy what we have not by accident. But because of caring residents who expend extra effort to ensure that all the good things about the LCA area stay that way.

In these times of unprecedented economic challenge, it is of historic significance that LCA continue its work. I assure you we are ramping up our efforts.

Our various committees are populated by your neighbors who can be characterized as dedicated and goal-oriented and who don’t shy away from hard work. They are serving as caretakers/watchdogs of our parks, street and alley maintenance, zoning and crime and other vital issues.

Specifically: Zoning—is working arduously to help define goals for future development in our area; Maintenance—we are in close touch with Alderman Vi Daley’s office on street and alley repairs, and calling attention to drainage issues; Crime—committee members attend CAPS meetings and are publishing summary reports; Green—this initiative is in an early stage, but our goal is serve as a model for other parts of the city.

The push for funds continues. They are needed, obviously, for LCA to continue to flourish. We are looking for community merchants to lend a bigger financial helping hand. We have met with a few to date, and will meet with more in the ensuing weeks. The response has been good. Planning is under way for merchants to offer residents incentives in return patronizing their businesses.

On other fronts, we urge you to get your neighbors and friends to become LCA members. An easy way to join is by visiting our web site, then going to membership tab and membership application. If ever we needed a massive joining together, now is the time. If you are not a member, I urge you (please, please) join us today. If you are a member, please stay a member. And possibly become a more active member. Let’s make 2009 the year LCA neighbors stared adversity squarely in the face. And sent it packing.

Rodger Owen, President
Lincoln Central Association