DON'T ROCK THE BOAT, A STORY OF WORKING FOR A STATE AGENCY

After leaving the City of Chicago I was hired by the State of Illinois, Department of Employment Security. I believe my title was Information Executive. My job was to manage 10 or 12 programmers who maintained accounts payable and general ledger software. My first day set the course for the next eight years. My Manager presented me with a number of reference manuals to the packages I was to manage. There was no conversation, no direction. After that initial meeting, I was on my own.



I quickly learned that the State operated differently, from the City. The City was internally controlled and independent. City workers came through the Civil Service System and selected off a list of qualified candidates. If they were political, they had some related experience or training. The State operated their personnel systems differently. Many of the programmers, that I was assigned, appeared to have political clout and lacked the experience or training to meet expectations. To meet expectations the State used a number of Consulting Firms to run their systems. This was the main difference between the two organizations. The City was independent and used their own staff. In comparison the State provided little opportunity to be creative to design systems. I had a few good programmers I could depend on, after that it was a challenge to get things done. My style of management was different. My first task was to get to know my people and for them to get to know me. I wanted to know what they could and couldn’t do, what were their skills. Each morning I would say good morning to each staff member and check their progress and ask if they had problems. It was not to be intrusive, but to build unity and a team to get the job done. I wanted them to be comfortable and to trust me. Some had no problem with that, but a few were secretive and protective of what they considered their turf. This was a different environment. As I acclimated myself to the work area and the people; I noticed many competent, hard working people. It dawned upon me that maybe my area was sort of a dumping ground for political favors. It was not the people’s fault, that’s the way the system worked. Eventually the message came through, don’t rock the boat, keep quiet and do what you’re told.



One of my early experiences was with a programmer named Roger. I liked Roger; he was an intelligent, smart man, but not a programmer. It was time for his review and I had to sit down and discuss his performance. I was honest and told him I could not recommend him for a raise because of his lack of performance. Roger was very persistent, and kept arguing his viewpoint and wouldn’t give in. I didn’t believe it, this carried on for several days. Finally, I relented, Roger got his raise. My logic was that no one cared, that was the system, why fight it. This was pretty much the story. What was needed was the opportunity to send those in need for more training. Unfortunately, that wasn’t about to happen.



Every year the agency went through a process called RFP or Request for Proposal. It was the process to select the consulting firms that would create and maintain the agencies systems. There would be six to ten firms that made presentations. It was the responsibility of the data processing managers to select the firms to be awarded contracts. It was a repetitive process. Some firms had been working at the agency many years. Selection was based heavily on agency experience. Some of the consultants had been working at the agency so long they could have qualified for a state pension. Most of the firms had excellent reputations and did outstanding work. I only found one that was arrogant and overbearing. They thought they ran the place. Instead of working for us they thought we worked for them. From the sidelines I could see the favors that the consultants bestowed upon top management: tickets, lunches, dinners and more. This was how things were done and this was a culture that had grown over years.



Employment Security did not provide a competitive environment for individual growth. I wasn’t one to sit back and be quiet. I was ambition and still had the fire to succeed....I had plenty of drive and energy to compete. I filled out the civil service forms for promotion. I was qualified with grades qualifying me all the way to the Director of Data Processing. I didn’t see much opportunity at Employment Security so I sought opportunities at other agencies. It was a brick wall and I didn’t want to move to Springfield. For example, when the Data Processing Director retired, my manager was appointed DP Director. Being on the list and being qualified; I felt I earned the opportunity for an interview. My education and work experience was superior to the chosen one who had just received his bachelor’s degree. The DP Manager’s spot went to an outsider. I remember they had a meeting to introduce her. She was a nice person, but I had to know something about her background and experience. What’s wrong with asking honest questions? Wouldn’t you expect someone to be proud of their credentials when receiving a high respected position? When I asked about her background and credentials everyone was aghast. I had just thrown a bomb of inquiry into the room. To this group it was a no, no. There was no reply to the question. She was to remain unknown. That was the system and how things were done. Don’t’ rock the boat, do what you’re told.



After moving to Homer Township I became politically active. I was President of the Old Oak Estates Home Owners Association, then I founded HURTS (Homer United to Reform Tax Systems), and finally joined the Republican Party to work for change. I ran for Precinct Committeeman and won by an astounding 7 votes. As a candidate I didn’t stir up much enthusiasm or support. I was honest and said what was on my mind. I was not a politician. As a member of the Republican Party I got to know many Federal, State and County officials. I diligently worked my precinct to get many elected. .I was featured in newspaper articles on taxes, water and incorporation. My letters were respected in the newspapers. I was featured as a South Towner in the South Town Newspaper. I was a voice in Homer Township. I considered running for Township Supervisor but was told it would be a violation working both at the State and the Township. I accepted the advice and dropped the subject. I still had the problem of stagnation at Unemployment Security. With my new identity in local government I approached the Chairman of the Will County Republican Party to see what he could do to remove my shackles. I guess he was in as much disfavor as I was, it was no cigar. In fact it wasn’t long after that he was replaced as Will County Chairman. Was there a political brick on my advancement or what was needed to move within the State System?



About a year after joining the State I remember sending a donation of $50 to the Thompson Campaign. .I had never donated before, for some reason, this time, I sent the money. Well, would you believe, shortly after that, there was a layoff. I happen to overhear someone mention my name for layoff; I guess I wasn’t one of the guy’s favorites. The reply was, we can’t touch him. Do you think it was the $50? What a system.



In time I was moved to manage a different unit that was responsible to maintain PC and Peripheral Systems. I also worked with and coordinated some of the work done by the telecommunication unit. Fortunately, most people were very competent. This kept management away and we were free to do our work. Except for the assignment of one person, it was uneventful. They assigned the former director’s secretary to my unit. You knew she was being dumped. I had no problem with her and tried to find things that she could do. Unfortunately she was not a favorite of the new DP Director and this created problems.



The DP Director did give me an assignment. It was to reconcile bills for telecommunication lines. It appeared that the agency was approving IT bills with little understanding of what they were paying. I tried to explain to him that I was not qualified to reconcile these bills; he needed someone who understood the internal system and telecommunications. He didn’t accept that, and said “get it done”. I guess he had me. GOTCHA! I tried, using telecommunication people for input, it was too much of a mess. It was as bad as going into a cable closet and trying to straighten out the wires. If there was anything he could hang me with, it was this assignment.



In the meantime my involvement in Homer politics centered on property taxes, which had doubled in a few short years. I concluded that to change my work situation, I would have to work from within the system. After becoming a Precinct Committeeman I attended meetings and became vocal in my efforts. My involvement gained me the opportunity to to know many State political leaders; I supported Jim Edgar and campaigned heavily for him. In his victory I delivered 73% of Homer’s 12th Precinct. I was on the Joliet radio station asking him questions and writing letters supporting his candidacy, I supported the Congressional Candidacy of Harris Fawell helping him gain favor in Homer. .I supported and worked to elect many of the local State Reps and Senators representing Homer. I had become a heavy hitter in Homer Township. Well, with this growing reputation you would figure I could get some help to move out of Unemployment Security. The day did come when a State Senator arranged for me to meet Bill Cellini in Springfield. I had no idea who the man was or his power. Many of the Reps laughed, because they felt George was going to take on the State. When I came for the meeting, I didn’t meet Mr. Cellini; I met his assistant. Nothing came of the meeting. Afterwards and a better understanding of who Mr. Cellini was, it dawned on me I should have brought a gift. He was the bagman. This was not my style; I went to sell my skills and leadership not my soul.



By 1993 or 1994 I was entrenched in a dead ended career. I was unhappy and I was quite sure my Manager/Director was not happy with me. Well, it came to a head in 1994 when the agency was asked to downsize. I was called into the assistant manager’s office and told I was being laid off. This was interesting because it appeared that those with connections weren’t touched. I had given no money, only my time in supporting Republicans. Jim Edgar was Governor and he followed the playbook established by the powers in Springfield. I talked to several people, but found that no one remembered the work and support I had given them. They didn’t know me or wouldn’t put in a word to help. In fact, some my fellow employees wouldn’t even give me a hi on the street. How did everyone get so brainwashed. Politics was raising its ugly head. The advice was to see my State Representative. My Rep was Brent Hassert. I made an appointment and went to talk to him. My objective was to find out why I was let go. I wanted to know what the going rate was for a state job. The people I knew that were let go had no political connections. In my case they never let anyone go at my job level. I knew it was personal. The DP Manager/Director took the opportunity to get rid of a nemesis. Where did he get all this power? So I went to Lemont to see Representive Hassert. I was greeted in a strange manner, instead of inviting me to sit by his desk; he positioned me 20 feet away, near the door. That was weird, what was more strange was the echo in the room. The Representative excused himself, went to a back room and in a few minutes returned. I was blunt, asking him to tell me what the going rate for a job was? He never replied nor offered any help to intercede for me. I found his actions underhanded in trying to catch me offering him a bribe or payoff. There was no doubt in my mind the meeting was being taped. That was the payoff for helping and working for politicians. He was trying to entrap me into a criminal act. It was getting nasty. The true character of the State of Illinois was unfolding before my eyes. I was living something out of a B movie.



Being the stubborn person I am; I went and filed an age discrimination complaint with EEOC. I was 56 years old, a difficult age to find a job. The complaint didn’t go anywhere; after which I filed a grievance with the State of Illinois. Because of my longevity I could bounce someone with less time. The positions that would apply didn’t appeal to me. In the end I wanted to confront the Information Technology Staff for approving my layoff. I knew it was the DP Director’s decision and no one would disagree with him. The meeting was held at a Human Resources Office in downtown Chicago. There was a representative from HR along with the DP Director and his staff of 6 or 7 people. I explained to them that I was not there to ask for my job back but to ask why the managers selected to lay me off. I stated that it was unprecedented to select someone at my grade level for layoff. Why was I the only one at that level, in the agency, to be let go. I didn’t mince words in calling them cowards in bowing to the wishes of the Director. That didn’t go over well. HR wasn’t pleased with me turning the meeting into an opportunity to tell off management. The DP Director said he wanted an immediate report from everyone justifying my layoff. I told him not to bother, I was no longer objecting. I had no need or desire to work for an organization that had no ethics or professionalism. What I didn’t know, they were doing me a favor.



PROLOGUE: William Cellini was convicted of extortion, Brent Hassert lost his re-election bid, and others no longer hold office. By all accounts The State of Illinois hasn’t changed, and the culture remains in tack. The story goes that the former director’s secretary was let go, but in the process had to be removed from the building, kicking and screaming.

CHANGING TIMES

The 1940’s had come to an end. It was an end of an era that many remember as the greatest of times. It was a period in history which reflected on the reliance and strength of the American people. They had come out of a depression, unemployment, little or no wages, little food; many had lost everything and fought back. It was not a time to feel sorry for yourself; it was a time to move forward... The depression ended and we faced an enemy to democracy and freedom. World War II brought us into conflict with Germany and Japan. Many lives were sacrificed to maintain human dignity and the right to be free. It was the story of the great American culture, pride, values and way of life...

Many of the things we have talked about have changed. The story of life is change. As soon as you feel comfortable, something changes. If we meditate on the things we did in the 40’s, in comparison to today, we will find drastic changes. The front porch that we enjoyed for discussions is a thing of the past. The friendships we enjoyed have changed. Many neighborhoods have changed 2 or 3 times over. The ethnics of the 40’s have been replaced by new groups and cultures. The stores we knew have been replaced with foreign signs and ads. The people moved to new areas or the suburbs.

Our small stores have been replaced by large shopping malls. The ma and pa stores could no longer compete with large corporate giants. Gas stations no longer pump gas, clean windows or check your tires, its now self service. If you have car problems you need to find a dealer or someone specializing in the problem... The bakeries of the 40’s are few and are now found as departments within large supermarket chains. The freshness and taste is no longer the same. Candy stores are gone, although you may find fine chocolate shops in larger malls or in frozen displays at supermarkets and drug stores. Most if not all of the Milwaukee Avenue stores are gone. It’s a new day and a new culture that promotes its goods and way of life.

The call to play has been replaced by modern communications. The culture of play has changed. Kids no longer play in gravel schoolyards or rock filled empty lots, they require grassy fields with stands, real bases and line markers. It is rare to see kids just get together and start up a game of baseball or football. They need supervision and coaches to guide and tell them what and how to play. Where is the imagination of the cork stand, hit em outs, pitching pennies? Instead of playing outside and the cammadrarie of friends, most kids of today relate to indoor entertainment with electronic gadgets .Is this good? I don’t know, but I can say that it was a healthier, more enjoyable life growing up in the 40’s.

By 1950 the radio was fading as TV made its way into our living rooms. Many of the favorite shows started switching to TV; Jack Benny, Red Skeleton, Burns and Allen, and Jimmy Durante. The mysteries didn’t make the move; it was difficult to transfer the mental image to the screen. Radio had to make its own transition. It would soon abandon the old shows and switched to music and talk, Sports continued to be aired and provided large audiences. Radio was to find its niche in the car while traveling, working or doing things around the house... The 78 RPM records became obsolete, while the phonographs, that played the records, have been replaced with new technologies. The black telephone has given way to smaller more convenient methods of communication. The movie theatre with its double feature and cartoon has been replaced by large multiple screen theatres. The cost to go to the movies and buy pop corn or candy has gone from pennies to dollars. In fact, you don’t need money, you can charge it. We have changed from a cash and go society to a society with a charge card.

Advances in transportation have replaced the streetcar with buses and trains. You no longer have a conductor. The conductor has been replaced by coin or dollar machines. The trolleys are gone and all transportation has air conditioning, Automobiles now come in many colors and designs. They have become bigger and more costly. It’s no longer Ford vs. GM, we have entered the global market were foreign competition now challenges the once dominate U.S. companies. Air travel has made it possible to travel long distances in a matter of hours. The once long tedious car and train trips are now made by air.

Our appliances have become automated and computerized. You no longer have to stand over a stove and cook meals. You push a few buttons and the appliance does the work. The old wringer washing machine, ice box, coal stove and cleaning devices have been replaced. Thermal windows and efficient heating systems now give you the convenience of warmth in the winter and coolness in the summer. The sculptures of Jack Frost have melted away. Change has made our lives easier and more convenient.

The walks down the Avenue have been replaced by automobile trips to malls. Window shopping on a Sunday afternoon has become passé. Stores are now open everyday and many 24/7. Discounters have replaced the old department stores with lower prices and fewer services... The loyalty of old is gone; we now search for the best buy. You can no longer run down the block to buy a paper or piece of candy. How hard is it to find a shoemaker or barber? Most of the ice cream shops have disappeared. The movie theatres have been knocked down or boarded up. Yes, the old neighborhood just ain’t the same.

The old friends and neighbors have either passed away or moved to different parts of the city, suburbs or different parts of the country. If you walked down a street you probably couldn’t recognize your old friends or neighbors. Memories are replenished by reading of an old friends passing. What happened to all those people where did they go, what did they do? So many people pass through our lives impacting who we are and what we have become. Time passes and we move on and adjust.

Yes, times have changed, we have changed and everything around us continues to change. Time does not stop. New things are happening every minute and hour of the day. It’s hard to keep up with change. You can look back, but it’s more important to look forward. You can’t change the past but maybe you can impact the future by looking forward and focusing on where you’re going. You can cherish the memories of what was, but you must be positive of the future. The memories of the 40’s have now been relinquished to history. We must use and pass on these memories as a time that was and should not be forgotten.

I hope you enjoyed our visits from the Front Porch. I hope I painted a picture of what life was like in the 1940’s on Evergreen Avenue. Please join me next time as we venture into new discussions. Next week, we begin a new topic, WORK.

Till next time.

This is Sasiad your neighbor on the Front Porch.

Hi, welcome back to My Front Porch. Today, I thought that we would continue our discussion on growing up in Wicker Park. Last week we talked about Evergreen Avenue and the stores and its people. To get a better picture of the neighborhood let’s take a walk and check out the major streets: Damen, Milwaukee, Division Street, North Avenue and Western Avenue.

It’s a short walk to Damen Avenue from The Front Porch on Evergreen Avenue. Damen Avenue was a major thoroughfare with red streetcars that provided transportation North and South... The streetcars where manned by a conductor and a motorman. Damen Avenue was cobble stoned with tracks and trolley lines to run the cars. It was not unusual for the trolley to disengage and the motorman or conductor to exit the streetcar and re-engage the trolley. Let’s start our walk north on Damen. On the corner at Evergreen and Damen was a Rexall Drug Store and across the street a Baptist Church About a block north is Wicker Park. The Park covers about two square blocks. Across from the Park were mostly homes. I remember a clinic that was located across from the park. That’s where I would go to be checked for colds and other ailments. Not far from the clinic was the El Subway that could get you downtown in less than 15 minutes. Somewhere near the El was the Stack and Ryan Bowling Alley. . As we pass the El we find three corners Damen, Milwaukee and North Avenues. This triangle was anchored by the Tower Building that housed doctors and dentists, Northwest Pharmacy, Irv’s Men Store and Fairfield S&L.


Northwest Pharmacy Tower Building

If you went west on North Avenue you would find The Association House, one of many settlement houses where immigrants were welcomed and received assistance in settling into our country. Many of the neighborhood kids played basketball at the Association House

For our tour let’s turn right onto Milwaukee Avenue, to me it was known as the “Avenue”. Milwaukee Avenue was the major shopping center that featured furniture, clothing, jewelry, movie theatres, and more. Wielboldts was our Marshall Field and the major department store in the area. I best remember Wielboldts for opening its 4th floor Christmas Toyland which featured Santa Claus, toys and a great train display. I also remember standing in line and waiting for Polish Ham at Glinkas Sausage and for fish at Jack’s Fish Market, it was a nightmare to go to those stores at Christmas or Easter. Nearby was the People’s Gas and Com Ed offices to pay your gas or electric bills. The A&P was the largest supermarket in the area. I remember the Chicago Bakery for its paczki, kruszecki, kolaczki, éclairs, French donuts and birthday cakes... There was Jack and Jills for ice cream sundaes and sodas. At Jack and Jills your water was served in a triangular tin cup with a paper cup insert. When was the last time you saw that? Two movie theatres, Wicker Park and The Royal Theatres had double features, cartoons and a news reels for pennies. Nearby was a wallpaper store. There was Tri-Are Lamps were we still have a lamp from. As we continue down Milwaukee Ave we cross Evergreen Ave., which runs at an angle and ended at Milwaukee Avenue... Nearby you could find Niederman Furniture, Royal Jewelers, and something you won’t find today, a fresh chicken store. Yes, you could buy fresh live chickens. The chickens were kept in coups until ready for killing and cleaning. There was a Record Store that sold 78 RPM records. You’d browse through the records that were stored on tables; you could play your selections in a sound proof room before purchase. There were a few taverns and you’d could smell the beer, it had a lasting aroma. There was a newsstand to buy local papers and magazines. My favorite store was the Woolworth 5&10; I liked the toys and the candy malt teasers and chocolate raisins... As we cross Wood Street we come to Wileboldts and across the street, were Tom McCann and Father and Son Shoes. Benson Rixon and Continental Clothing where the top men stores and Paddors was a favorite ladies store. You could find ladies hats and other accessories on the Avenue. The stores were closed on Sunday, but you’d find people strolling and window shopping on the Avenue...

We’ve reached the end of what I called the Avenue. We’re now at Milwaukee, Ashland and Division Street. Next week I would like to take you down Division Street and continue to look back at growing up in the 40’s...


Sasiad

WHEN JOHNNY COMES MARCHING HOME

As WWII ended the nation rejoiced and echoed the old Civil War song “When Johnny Comes Marching Home Again, Hurrah, Hurrah”. Celebrations took place throughout the land. The Stars and Stripes was flown proudly and the pride and patriotism was seen throughout the land. Happy Days Were Here Again.

The transition from wartime to peacetime was about to begin. What was once a male dominated work force was about to change. Through their hard work and efforts women were now competing for the jobs previously occupied by men. The factories began to hum and produce the much needed and desired domestic goods: refrigerators, automobiles, furniture, clothes... After years of shortages the stores were stocked and meeting consumer demand. I remember a neighbor who waited a year for his new Ford Coup. It was a beauty, bright shiny red... Within days it was stolen. It was heartbreaking to see this man’s happiness turn to anger and sorrow... I guess you can never eradicate evil. Our household participated in the change by buying a refrigerator and saying good by to the ice box. We got a used gas heater for the kitchen to replace the coal stove.We purchased a radio and phonograph. We ran out to buy the latest 78rpm hits: Julida Polka, Jedzie Boat, Too Fat Polka, Helena Polka, Czy Jak Ta Dzywiecyna and others. Yes, we liked Those Polkas! Oh, by the way, we did buy popular records.

My sisters were now getting older and starting to date. They’d go polka dancing to the ballrooms and picnic groves. They ‘d go to Polonia Ballroom and Grove, Pulaski Village, Veterans Hall, Wozniaks, Trombas and Natomas. There were plenty of dance halls in the 40’s. This is were the Polish Boys went to meet the Polish Girls. This was also the Big Band era, they would go to the Aragon or Trianon Ball Rooms to listen and dance to Eddie Howard, The Dorsey Brothers, and Wayne King. For movies they went to neighborhood theatres or Downtown too the Chicago, Oriental, State Lake Theatres where they watched live performances presented by big bands, singers and comedians. It was like vaudeville. I remember going to the Chicago Theatre to watch a James Cagney movie, the one were he pushes a grapefruit in the girls face. After the movie, we enjoyed the big band sounds of Guy Lombardo or Carmen Cavarello.

After the war couples started to marry and it was the start of the baby boom. It was a time when people married within their own nationality and religion. It was frowned upon for a Pole to marry someone that was not Polish or Catholic. Everyone in my family, aunts and uncles, married Poles. The only non compliant one was my brother who married an Italian girl. Most of our weddings took place at Holy Trinity Church on Noble Street. This was the time of the famous Polish Weddings. The couples rented a hall, hired Polish cooks, bought the food and drinks, and hired a Polka Band. For food there was chicken soup, chicken, golambki, Polish sausage, mash potatoes, kapusta, a salad, coffee, and kolaczki. The wedding cake was taken home. The cooks were the best. The halls were situated so that you had dancing on the main floor and dinner on the lower level. When it was time to eat, the band would strike up the Polish Wedding March and the Bride and Groom would invite and lead the guests to the dining area. After dinner the bar would open and dancing would begin. The bar would be manned by friends and relatives. The drinks would be beer, wine, straight shots, high balls and soda. Sometimes, someone would have too much to drink and fights would break out, or other foolish incidents would occur. I remember, at my eldest sister’s wedding, my brother and several friends took my brother-in-law’s car for a joy ride and were caught by the police. They were escorted back to the wedding where my brother-in-law talked them out of the situation.

In 1947 my parents celebrated their 25th wedding anniversary. It was a surprise party hosted by my sisters and brother. It was held at an old hall, Gutz Hall. It featured great home cooking by our Polish Cooks and the music of Joe Durlak. To this day I still listen to his renditions of Czy Jak Tak Dzywiecyna, Kuku Oberek and Young Fellows Waltz. It was like the typical Polish wedding with the Wedding March, dinner and dancing. My father was famous for his Russian Cossack Dance and entertained the guests with his energy and footwork. All the relatives and friends attended. In those days you invited your neighbors. It was like a block party. The Anniversary was held on a Sunday and on Monday we stayed home to rest and continue the celebration. My father went to work. He never missed a day of work.

The day after a Polish Wedding was called Poprawina, the Day After. It was a continuation of the celebration. The relatives would gather at the home of the bride or groom to visit and talk about the wedding. It was a time when the question, how much money (ile) did they collect was asked. We would enjoy the left over food and have a good time, talking and laughing about the crazy things that happened at the wedding.

One of the things I enjoyed after the war was watching the men, back from service, play 16” softball. After super I would go to Wicker Park School Yard to watch the games. The season lasted from June thru July. The two neighborhood teams were the Rippers and Wolves, My favorite was the Rippers. They wore red burgundy pants with white stripes. They were a solid team. I remember they had Gene at 1st, Whitey at 3rd and Mike at shortstop. Gene was a big guy who could hit the ball a mile. The playing field was covered with gravel and was surrounded by Damen, Schiller, Evergreen and Hoyne. Home plate was at Schiller near Damen. The school was about 200 feet from home plate and 50-60 feet from left field. It was like having a big fence in center field... A lot of home runs were hit on to the roof of the school. I remember Gene hitting one from Schiller to almost Evergreen Avenue. The Wolves wore Blue and Gold. I had a habit of watching the Wolves along the 1st baseline, until their pitcher, Johnny; a left hand hitter hit a line drive that hit me in the nose. .. I still can feel that ball and blood coming from my nose. The problem was that it didn’t happen once, it happened twice. I guess I didn’t belong on the 1st baseline. The teams would meet once or twice during the season. Sometimes, Joe Graboski played for the Wolves. They called him Bones. He was about 6-6 and played for the Chicago Stags and later the Philadelphia Warriors. Joe went straight from Tuley High School to play professional basketball with the Stags. The Rippers normally came out on top. The best games were when the Cats, a black team, came by truck to play the Rippers. This was the show down of all show downs. It was like the Yankees coming to play the White Sox. Two great teams squaring off in what was always a big money game. The Cats were so good they were unbeatable. If the Rippers beat them once or twice it was a miracle. The scores were something like 40 to 1 or 43 to 0. They were unbelievable and it was a joy to watch the teams and the respect they had for each other. I didn’t see any racism.

The young men playing softball were a great example for the neighborhood kids. Many of the men continued their education under the GI bill and went on to successful careers. It was there way of staying in touch with their buddies and relaxing.

Early in May the Polish Constitution Day was celebrated. It was on the first Sunday in May and started with mass at Holy Trinity Church and followed with a parade that proceeded down Augusta Blvd to Humboldt Park than to the Kosciuszko Statue, The statute had stood for years near North and California. Every year we would have lunch and run to watch the parade. We’d walk down Potomac Street to the park. There was always a packed crowd lining the parade route. Everywhere you would see Red and White Polish Flags and American Flags. A number of bands played as we watched former Polish soldiers march by. The Polish Ladies auxiliary were dressed in white outfits with Blue and red capes and blue hats. They would string out huge white sheets to collect money for Polish charities... My Uncle Miller marched in his Goral outfit, Mountaineer; he had his handy curved Polish Cane in hand. The parade ended at Kosziciuczko’s statue where a well known dignitary would speak. It was an enjoyable and memorable event that was looked forward too every year.

The end of WWII also marked the year that the Chicago Cubs battled the Detroit Tigers for the pennant. It was 1945 and the Cubs had such favorites as Phil Cavaretta, who batted 355, Stan Hack, Andy Pafko, Bill Nicholson, Lennie Murrelo, Claude Passeau, Hank Borowy and Hank Wyse who won 22 games. The Cubs were managed by Charlie Grimm, but lost in a 7 game series to the Detroit Tigers.

In 1948 Harry S. Truman ran for re-election against Thomas Dewey, former governor of New York. This was the year that the Chicago Tribune printed its famous headline that “DEWEY DEFEATS TRUMAN”. Truman was the winner and continued on for four more years with his standby trademark, “The Buck Stops Here”.

Yes, Johnny had come home and we had returned to normal, unfortunately it was to be short lived. . In a few short years we would find ourselves in the Korean Conflict.

Join me next week on the Front Porch as we discuss the grammar school years.

AS TIME GOES BY

AS TIME GOES BY

Today let’s begin with a little history of the family. My father was born in 1895 in Ternavka, a small village in the Russian Ukraine. His family lived on a farm in the rich farmlands of the Ukraine. He had three brothers. He came to America at the insistence of his mother to escape the tyranny of the Russian Revolution. He set sail on the Vaterland and arrived at Ellis Island in 1914. It was a bold an adventurous journey for a 19 year old who didn’t know the language or anyone in a new home called the United States. He came to Chicago and boarded with a Polish family. There were other boarders and the lady of the boarding house was known as Hazika. My father went to evening school and learned to write, speak and read English. In a very short time he was competent in the language and soon found work in the picture frame industry...

My mother was born in 1903 in Philadelphia of Polish parents. Her parents were born in Szczawnica, Poland. At an early age she made two trips with her parents to visit her grandparents in Poland... She had two brothers and twins that died when babies. Her mother died when she was 13. Her father remarried and had two boys and a girl with the second wife. My mother completed most of grammar school but had to quit and go to work. She worked for a Jewish family cleaning house. Her father died in 1929. She met my father through Hazika. They were married in 1922. They had three girls and two boys; I was the youngest. My oldest sister was 15 and the youngest sister 7 when I was born. My parents had a long history of living on Evergreen Avenue. They lived in two different houses before moving to 2143 W. Evergreen. My Uncle Frank owned the grocery store and then bought a 3 flat three doors down. During the depression Uncle Frank lost everything and my parents moved to 2143 where I was born.

My mother was the boss; she managed the house, kids and money. My father was easy going and brought home the pay. Times were rough during and after the depression. Somehow my father was able to work and support the family. By the time my three oldest siblings were 16 they quit high school. Education wasn’t a priority when the family needed financial help. It was an era when working in a factory and steady work was looked upon as success. By the time young people were 19 or 20 they were getting married. We were a disciplined family and followed the rules. If you got out of line, the strap came out and you scurried to find safety. No no, no don’t hit me!

Supper time meant everyone sat down together. We learned to share and work together. Everyone had chores. As you got older the chores went down the line. Pretty soon I had inherited the chores. You learned to respect each other and bind together. We weren’t an outward affectionate family, but inside had the love and respect for each other. The credit goes to my mother and father for instilling good values: honesty, hard work, respect, courtesy, the tradition of family, how to manage good and bad times, responsibility, cleanliness, and to be a good person.

My mother was quite sociable and liked to entertain. Although we didn’t have much, we always seemed to have guests and plenty of food and drinks on the table. My relatives would take turns visiting .Uncles were called Wujek, aunts ciotka,grandma busia and grandpa dziadek. The kitchen table was the vocal point for the visit. .For the men my father would bring out a quart of beer and a half pint of whiskey and coffee or soda was served for the ladies. Around supper time my mother served lunch meat, bread, pickles and cake. When my uncles came they liked to play cards, 66 was their game. They would argue and accuse each other of cheating. They took this game seriously. They smoked cigars and sometimes cigarettes. The kids weren’t allowed to congregate with the adults, they stayed in another room. At the end of the evening they would say their good byes and head home. Most lived within walking distance and some would take the street car.

I can recall when my oldest sister was dating that my mother invited her fiancé and friends for Sunday dinner. They were from Pennsylvania and weren’t fortunate to have good home cooked meals. My mother served golambki and won everyone over. One of the memorable guest was the father of my future brother-in-laws friends. His name was Pop Laskowski. He was a tall, gray haired, slender man in his sixties. He loved to sing ,his favorite song was Jak Sybko Mila Chwile, As Time Goes By, In fact the whole group loved to sing and we where entertained with their harmonies of: Down By The Old Mill Stream, Dinah, I’ve Got Six Pence, Me and My Gal and other songs of the 30’s and 40”s. Their visits brought joy and happiness to the house.

When you talk about happiness and fun times I remember my youngest sister’s First Communion Party. It was held on the 2nd floor and all the aunts and uncles came. They were a fun bunch and liked good times. To celebrate they formed a band of combs, scrub board, paper and other items to make musical sounds to which they sang their favorite Polish songs. The windows were open and the merriment could be heard down the street...

In the summer my uncles would take us picnicking at Dam No. 2 or 4 on the far Northwest Side. My mother fried up hamburgers, prepared breaded pork chops, potatoe salad, coffee would be put into an empty gallon bottle and everything placed in a big picnic basket. This was a treat and always exciting. At one time I remember going in a truck, otherwise we traveled in one of the uncle’s cars... My father never owned or drove an automobile. The families didn’t own homes, everyone rented, and free time was for family. In those days cars had running boards while the small coups had rumble seats. Rumble seats were seats that are now occupied by your trunk and they would open outward with two seats. They had no roof and you were vulnerable to the weather.

One of my most favorite times was visiting Coitka Wlodska, Aunt Lucy, in Chicago Heights. We’d start out early on a Sunday taking a Damen Avenue Streetcar to Halsted Street and Halsted all the way to Harvey where we would pick up a bus to Chicago Heights. Once in Chicago Heights our Uncle Schultz would pick us up in his car. He was wild and drove like a maniac. They lived in an old frame house. They shared a bathroom with a next door neighbor; the bathroom was interesting because the water closet was on the wall near the ceiling. In the back of the yard they raised pigeons which were kept in little houses or coups. Ciotka had a large garden where she grew vegetables for canning. I always loved to come for her pork roast and roast potatoes. The best roast potatoes you ever tasted. She was a cook at the local country club. After several hours we would start our trek back home.

In the summer we would have visitors from Philadelphia, my mother’s mother’s brother, Wujek, would come with his daughters Mary and Nellie and spend several days with us. At times we would have other relatives from Philadelphia. My Uncle John was also a periodic visitor. He was a career soldier and came with his wife. It was never boring; there was always a variety of friends and relatives to make things interesting. I still can’t figure out how my mother managed, housed and fed all those people...


Next week I would like to continue our discussion by talking about holidays and how they were spent at 2143 W. Evergreen.


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MOVING TO OUR DREAM HOUSE

Before I got married Carol and I looked for a place to live. With the help of her father we found a nice apartment, located at 8308 S. Kedzie, behind Max’s Barbershop. We fixed it up and bought furniture and were ready to live there by the time we got married, it was convenient for Carol to go to Christ Advocate Hospital. I was working at North American and took a bus downtown. We moved there in June 0f 1968. In June, 1969 Georgie was born. When we moved there, Max the owner said he wouldn’t raise our rent. Well after a year the rent was raised from $130 to $150 a month. We felt it was too high. We started looking for a house. We started on the North Side were prices were higher and then scaled down our expectations to look on the SW side. The houses were newer and cheaper. Again Carol’s father came to the rescue. At the time he owned Frank and Walt’s Grocery Store on 56th Place and Pulaski. One of his customers had died and the family was selling their home at 5436 S. Avers. The house was about 20 years old and in decent condition. It needed a lot of paint and some work but was worth the $23,000 price tag. Our parent agreed and we bought the house. Over time we fixed the lawn, built a garage, redecorated the basement, put in new kitchen cabinets and remodeled the bathroom. I especially liked the basement and the bar that Carol’s parents had bought us. We had many parties that provide us with many fond memories. When my mother passed away, we built an apartment, in the attic, for my sister Loretta. It had become a very beautiful home for the area. It was conveniently located with the Pulaski and Archer Bus Lines close to Chicago’s loop. In April 1970 I started working for the City and the transportation was good. Carol was working at Christ Hospital which was straight down Pulaski to 95th Street. Georgie was going to St. Turibius where he could walk or get a ride to school. It turned out to be a practicable and good decision for a first home.



We lived in St. Turibius Parish, were Carol had gone to grammar school and had attended Lourdes High School. As Georgie got involved in various activities: soccer, band and scouts; I also got involved in the School Board, Scouts, and Band Boosters. Monsignor Mroszkowski was pastor and was an excellent religious leader. The Monsignor was always pleasant and treated the people who worked around the church to a variety of parties. He was a gifted organist and singer. Because of his love for music Georgie participated in a number of organ recitals that were held in the church hall. While at Turibius, Georgie’s interest in music grew. A big influence was St. Turibius’ Band Director Stan Robeson. Georgie took Organ and accordion lessons from Mr. Robeson. Stan also worked with Otto Nagel who gave Georgie Clarinet and Saxophone lessons. As his skills grew he was able to join Mr. Nagels Spartan Band. The Spartans were composed of mostly grownups but he was able to fit in. The Spartan Band also played at the Chicago Sting Soccer Games at the Chicago Stadium. In between those activities he participated in numerous organ recitals that he placed 1st place. Because of his interest we purchased a Hammond Organ. It would turn out to be an excellent investment for his future. By the time he was going to high school he was beginning to play at churches. St. Turibius was probably the most enjoyable part of living at 5436 S. Avers.



After along 10 years Carrie was born on January 19.1980. We had three bedrooms so it worked out just fine. Georgie had some neighborhood friends, bur Carrie didn’t have any one her age in the area. She had one lone friend, Kathleen, who came to visit her grandmother. By the time Carrie was ready to go to grammar school we had to make a decision on where we would live. Georgie was to go to Marist High School at 115th and Pulaski. We knew the neighborhood was changing. Next door we had a drug dealer and 2 frame houses that were neglected. Was this the neighborhood we wanted our children to grow up in? The major problem was, I worked for the City. That was a problem. The residency rule didn’t allow you to live outside the city. So the decision was made to look for another job.



Finding a new job wasn’t easy. The private sector had reservations about government employees, the ads were fruitless and networking was limited. Through a friend in the National Guard I was able to secure a position with the State Of Illinois’; Department of Employment Security. The money was a little less, but it provided the opportunity to leave the City. Next we had to select a place to live. After searching for a time we opted to build a new home. By chance, one Sunday I found a small ad in the Tribune with a vacant lot for sale in Homer Township. So we took a ride to Homer, which was still a small farming community. Our destination was the Old Oak Country Club. There, we met Al Lieponis who was representing property in Old Oak Estates. He took us around and we found lot at the corner of Old Oak and Pin Oak. It was a quarter of an acre with plenty of room. There was only one home at this location. To our back was vacant land that butted up against horse ranches located on Bell Road. We liked it and decided to purchase the property. The cost was about $18,000. We would need a mortgage. This would be a problem because banks weren’t lending money for vacant land. I told this to Eleanor Orchowski, a friend at City Hall. who told me to see her banker son. Through Eleanor’s son we got a mortgage and bought the land. Carol’s parents liked the location so much they bought the lot next door.



Now that we had the land we had to find a builder and the plans to build our dreamhouse. Carol had been impressed with the builder who had built her mother’s home on 56th Place. So we went to Tatoo and Schroll but for some reason it wouldn’t work. One problem was that we needed space for my sister, Loretta. Carol’s parents were able to build and move before us. They had selected Mundo Builders. So we selected the same builder. We found the plans that we liked. It was a combination of a Gallagher and Henry design and another builder. It was to be 2800 square feet, not counting the basement. The rec room area was huge enough that we could build a studio apartment for my sister. The cost was about $240,000. That was a lot of money for 1985. To finance the property I took a loan on my City pension, and with the sale of 5436 we were able to obtain a reasonable mortgage. Interest at that time was about 12%. With Carol and me working we were able to manage the mortgage.



So with a new job and the sale of our old home we were off to Homer Township. The first thing was to make sure our kids were set in school. Carrie was bused to Goodings Grove and Georgie to Marist. I drove downtown and sometime took the train. We needed many improvements: landscaping, furniture and general odds and ends. Over time we used our money wisely and accomplished our objectives. We where now in our dream house as the story goes on.

CITY HALL DAYS

After I got married my outlook on life changed. I had to become responsible and serious. Changing jobs, every 2 or 3 years, was no longer acceptable, it was time to settle into a secure career. It was time to get off the roller coaster. The opportunity came when I answered an ad, in the Chicago Tribune, for a Systems Analyst position with the City of Chicago. I was leery of government, but applied anyway. Working for government presented a negative perspective. I got a reply for an interview. The first step was a programming test. I passed, than was interviewed by a Systems Manager in the Chicago Data Center. I was hired. My start date was April 15, 1970, the salary, $10,700.

I was assigned to Lavern Breen who was to become my mentor and friend. She was great. You couldn’t ask for a better person to work with. She wanted me to succeed. I was assigned to work on the Board of Health Birth and Death System. Again I was fortunate to work with some wonderful people: the manager Henry Stanton and Jim Masterson, Chief Statistician. My responsibility was to ensure that a statistical report of births and deaths was prepared every Friday for the CDC (Center for Disease Control) to develop national figures for analysis. The assignment lasted 3-6 months.

I did very well, I passed the 3 month review and received a raise, I passed the 6 month review and got a raise and I passed the one year review and got a raise. I soon was promoted to Senior Systems Analyst and in a short time Principal Systems Analyst. I was beginning to make money. And Fred Farris said I should be an accountant! The environment fit my skills and personality. The only problem that came up in my first days was receiving my first paycheck My check was held up. They put a brick on it. I couldn’t understand it. I got the job through the Tribune, passed the requirements and was performing my duties. This upset me. I was mad. I wasn’t sure what to do. Than, I thought, that since I had been a member of the Illinois National Guard and General Kane was Director of Gun Control, I should talk to him. I went to his office and told him the situation. He told me it might be a good idea to see my committeeman since I was working for a political organization. I nodded my head and went back to my office. By the time I got back, my check was there. The General had made a phone call and resolved the situation. The Data Center Managers heard what I did and weren’t pleased with my actions and spoke among themselves about being more careful on who they hire. For the rest of my tenure no one approached or talked to me about politics. I never went to my committeeman and remained non political.

In time Laverne introduced me to Mike Hogan, from the Department of Personnel. Mike was in charge of Payroll Certification and coordinated personnel systems with the Data Center. Mike became a true friend and helper in moving my career forward. He was honest and realistic. He was interested in doing a good job. In time Mike transferred to the Chicago Fire Department and wanted me to replace him in Personnel. The timing was perfect, for I was to face some of the biggest system challenges the Department of Personnel would ever encounter. At the time, the Department of Personnel was dependent upon the Data Center for its data processing. As I became familiar with the systems, I began to plan the reorganization of the data processing needs for the DOP. I was fortunate that the Data Center had sent me for classes in Systems Development and Analysis at the Federal Building. These classes laid the foundation for much of the work that was to follow. The education provided me with the knowledge and approaches needed to bring about the changes necessary to meet the challenges in a timely and efficient manner... Two areas were of concern: Personnel Records and Examinations. I was about to venture into something unheard of, challenge the data center, and move some of the technical responsibilities to the User Department. This was rejected by the Data Center. Dr. Pounian, Director of Personnel, backed my position and took our proposal to Mayor Richard J. Daley. We won and were able to purchase our own Mini Computer, Entrex System. By this time I was enlisting the help of Lester Ascher, who moved from the Examination Division to my Systems Unit. Lester was a good technician and quickly learned to run and manage the Entrex. We became a team. I not only needed someone to manage Entrex, but also the expertise to write programs to create and modify systems. I applied for and received several grants to fund changes to the Certification System and to build a Biographical Examination Entry Program (BEEP). Again, I was fortunate to enroll the part-time help of two former DC Programmer Analysts to accomplish these tasks. Janis Kelly, former Programming Manager, took on the Certification project and Joe Tumminaro the BEEP Project. For $10,000 we put in place two excellent systems.

The BEEP System eventually grew to not only capture examination biographical data but encompassed the complete exam process: preparing exam notices, exam lists, statist tics, logistics, and other needed information. BEEP was instrumental in the processing of the Police and Fire Exams in the 70’s and 80’s. The system managed over 40,000 candidates for several police and fire exams and established the logistics for exam sites as well as test scoring. We also captured oral and physical exam data. Lester and James Jackson were instrumental in utilizing the data to generate the statistics used to defend the City in numerous court cases. There were times that we worked into the night, taking over the City’s two IBM 360 Computers; to prepare the statistics and information needed to meet court deadlines.

While building the exam systems, Florence Brophy, Manager of Test Scoring became ill requiring me to assume responsibility for the Test Scoring Division. We made some changes and McKinley Rogers became supervisor. Mac did a good job and was an excellent support person during this critical period in the City’s history. We modernized the file systems and kept pace with new technology to enable us to process the large number of applicants. .I also accepted responsibility for the Personnel’s Administrative Division which included: mail room, tuition reimbursement, photo id, reception room, purchasing, and most important the Budget. This assignment came because of my suggestion to Dr. Pounian that we needed better management of the budget. I was given the title Director of Systems and Administration... I had a fine staff: Connie, Eleanor, Olga, Lilly, Paula and more. With good people the job was enjoyable and successful.
We forged ahead in automating Personnel Systems and setting the model for other user departments. The changes wouldn’t have been possible without the fine work and effort of everyone involved. It was a team effort.

The environment was fascinating. We were part of history... Some mornings, when we went for coffee, at Counselors Row, across from City Hall, we would see legendary Aldermen: Keane, Roti, Vydolyak, Burke and others. This was a historical meeting place. When you were lucky, you might see Mayor, Richard J. Daley walking briskly through the tunnel of the Civic Center (Daley Center) to a meeting. The period was famous for its Council Wars. It was exciting to watch the Aldermen conduct business. One of my tasks was to sit on test panels for Police and Fire Exams where I had the pleasure to meet many of the top brass that commanded Police and Fire Units. I remember sitting on one of those panels, on a Friday before Memorial Day, when a plane crashed at OHare, killing over 190 passengers. The commanders were quickly sent to the crash site. To look back and revisit the accomplishments and events is amazing to know we participated in such an important period in the history of the City of Chicago...

Keeping morale was a priority. With the help of Katie we introduced “Scoop” to the DOP. It was a monthly newsletter of the Department’s happenings. Dr. Pounian would have preferred a literary piece, but Scoop was designed for and well received by the employees. After a year or two we disbanded Scoop and restructured it at Christmas time as a means to exchange season greetings and collect money for charity. We sold space in Scoop and donated the money to charity. Debbie provided much of the art work and the idea became a big hit. The Christmas Party was also a favorite, for $3 you got a hot lunch along with a raffle and Christmas Carols. The Department was like family.

The Department provided me with the opportunity to get a Masters Degree in Public Administration. Under the Tuition Reimbursement Program I went to DePaul U. from 1976 to 1980 gaining a degree that enhanced my career. In the early eighties, I found that there was a Superior Service Award for top employees. Knowing that no one would nominate me, I conspired with Lester to write a nomination letter. I was selected as a top candidate in the Supervisor category. I did not win, but did receive an honoree certificate. In a similar case, I tooted my horn to go to the City’s Executive Development Program. If you didn’t speak up, no one would do it for you. As a supervisor I also attended the Media Program at the Police Academy which instructed employees on how to work with the media.

During my 15 years the saddest day was in December 1976 when Richard J. Daley died. I believe it was late on a Friday afternoon that he passed away from a stroke. The Mayor was replaced by Michael Bilandic. Unfortunately for Bilandic there was a big snow storm in 1979 that provided Jane Byrne the ammunition to defeat him in the next election. . Byrne had a fiery term. She seemed to cause all kinds of rumors and problems. I remember her assistant, Lou , asked me for a list of personal information on all Police or Firemen. I didn’t know what do, so I had Lester prepare the list. When Lou called for the report I gave it to Dr. Pounian... I advised Lou to see Dr. Pounian; the Doctor threw him out of his office. There was a period of time after that that the Doctor was on the hot seat with the Mayor. Byrne lost in a bid for reelection to Harold Washington, Chicago’s first black mayor. City Hall changed. What bothered me was the attitude of Harold Washington’s followers; they thought it was now their turn to get their share. I went to a meeting that was conducted by Bernie Barfield, The Mayor’s Chief of Staff, instead of asking people to do a good job; the message was to protect the Mayor. It was inappropriate, you don’t make a good City by protecting one person, you make a good City by everyone doing a good job.

There was a time when I worked in the Data Center that the Director called everyone into the conference room to remind them that it was Election Day. He told us to remember who our employer was. Remember, vote early and often. Only in Chicago. St. Patrick’s Day was a big day during the Daley Administration. The Irish had great pride and ready to party. We normally got off at noon to watch the parade. It was interesting and lively. I had the opportunity to work with the Budget Director, Comptroller along with the Director of Personnel. I would have to say it was my most rewarding and challenging position. I will always remember the fine people and the binding of family that was alive in the Department of Personnel.

During my stay with the City of Chicago We bought a house at 5436 S. Avers. My wife was working at Christ Hospital and my son Georgie was one year old. I commuted via the Archer Ave. bus to downtown Chicago. Later in the 90’s the elevated was expanded to Pulaski and would have made the commute faster. We were members of St. Turibius Parish, where Georgie went to school and would graduate. We were active in scouts, Band, and later the school board. Georgie played the organ, sax and clarinet and was successful in many competitions. He took instructions from Mr. Stan Robson and Otto Nagle and joined Nagel’s Spartan Band. The Spartan Band was also known as the Rafter Rats and played at Chicago Sting Soccer games. Turibius kept us busy and active. Monsignor Mroczkowski was the pastor and was an excellent spiritual and administrative leader. One of the memorable moments was in 1979 when I got 2 tickets to attend Pope John Paul’s, Polish mass at Five Holy Martyrs parish. It was held outdoors and I attended with Georgie. We admired John Paul and were hoping to have a child and name it John Paul... In 1980 after 10 years, we didn’t have a John Paul; we had a lovely girl, Carrie Marie Tarasuk. We had been in the neighborhood about 10 years when things started to change. The two frame homes to the south of us had changed hands and the owner, a realty firm, started renting to different types of people. The worse was to happen when he rented to a well known drug dealer. There was a lot of activity to which the neighbors did not take well. Reports were made to the police but little happened. One day, they nabbed him with angel dust in his car. That’s when we found that he had prior arrests for selling drugs to teens at SW Side schools. The neighbors picketed the realty office and forced the dealer to move. He was followed by one of his customers who lost the home. This created a question, do we want our children to be raised in this environment.

The affects of a changing environment and the change to the Washington Administration created a dilemma: should we make changes. The City’s residency requirement was clear that you had to live in the City and job stability under a Washington Administration was questionable. Some said, wait and there would be change, but what if I was forced out. The decision was to find a different position. This was not easy. Through some networking, I was able to find a position with the State of Illinois’ Department of Employment Security. The decision was made to move and end 15 exciting years at the City of Chicago. The best job one could ever expect to have.