January 5 - 12, 2020

January 6 - 12, 2020 Vol. 28 No. 1

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$1.10 goes to vendor

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Calendar

Experience what Chicago has to offer!

SportsWise

The NFL playoffs are near. Who is destined for greatness?

Cover Story: Vendor letters

Since it is INSP’s 25th anniversary, we were inspired to put a twist on the now ubiquitous ‘Letter to My Younger Self’ feature made famous by The Big Issue (UK), asking vendors from all over the world to write to (or in some cases about) their 25-yearold selves. For many, this meant dipping into the past. For others, it was a glimpse into the future. And for some, it was a good way to reflect on life right now.

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From the StreetS

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Inside StreetWise

The Just Housing Initiative helps people returning from prison access affordable housing. Also, the Point-In-Time Count is looking for overnight volunteers to help count people living on the street.

Vendor A. Allen talks about keeping your 20/20 when legalized marijuana can blur your vision.

The Playground THIS PAGE: Street paper vendors from around the world, all of which are members of the International Network of Street Papers (INSP), including StreetWise vendor A. Allen (lower right corner).

Dave Hamilton, Creative Director/Publisher

dhamilton@streetwise.org

StreetWiseChicago @StreetWise_CHI

This is Miha.

Miha sells Kralji Ulice in Sloven DONATE Suzanne Hanney, Editor-In-Chief

suzannestreetwise@yahoo.com

Julie Youngquist, Executive Director

jyoungquist@streetwise.org

Amanda Jones, Director of programs

ajones@streetwise.org

LEARN MORE AT streetwise.org

Ph: 773-334-6600 Office: 4554 N. Broadway, Suite 350, Chicago, IL, 60640

To make a donation to StreetWise, visit our website at www.streetwise.org/donate/ or cut out this form and mail it with your donation to StreetWise, Inc., 2009 S. State St., Chicago, IL 60616.

We appreciate your support!

My donation is for the amount of $________________________________Billing Information: Check #_________________Credit Card Type:______________________Name:_________________________________________________________________________________

Your local vendor is one of over 9,000 in 35 c selling street papers every day.

We accept: Visa, Mastercard, Discover or American Express

Address:_______________________________________________________________________________

Account#:_____________________________________________________City:___________________________________State:_________________Zip:_______________________ Expiration Date:________________________________________________Phone #:_________________________________Email:_________________________________________

pdet photography

Chicago Ale Fest: See January 11

JAN 6 - MAR 30

Music & Magic When: 7:30 p.m. most Mondays Where: Chicago Magic Lounge, 5050 N. Clark St. What: A live jazz combo plays as talented close-up magicians visit your table to perform feats of prestidigitation right before your eyes. W hen the band takes a break, a magician takes the stage. $20 at chicagomagiclounge.com .

JANUARY 8 - 12

Chicago Boat, RV & Sail Show When: Wed 2-8 p.m.; Thurs & Fri 11 a.m. - 9 p.m.; Sat 10 a.m. - 8 p.m.; Sun 10 a.m. - 5 p.m.

Where: McCormick Place South, 2301 S. Lake Shore Drive What: Offering something for the dreamer in everyone, from boarding luxurious 50+ foot yachts and fishing (for real fish!) indoors in the middle of January, the show will feature over 600 boats, 100 RVs, sailing and boating educational opportunities, plus the latest in technology and outdoor accessories. $15 at chicagoboatshow.com

JANUARY 8 - 25

33rd Young Playwrights Festival When: Various Where: The Getz Courtyard Theatre, 72 E. 11th St.

What: A professional production of winning plays from the annual playwriting competition for high-school-age scribes in Chicago. The second oldest such festival in the country, this annual tradition regularly receives over 500 submissions from students throughout the area. From those, the winning playwrights are chosen to join with professional artists to workshop and stage their scripts. Be sure to witness the amazing results and enjoy an evening of theater from tomorrow’s theater stars. $18-30 at pegasustheatrechicago.org.

JAN 8 - MAR 25

Pure Lies with Trent James When: 7:30 p.m. Wednesdays Where: Chicago Magic Lounge, 5050 N. Clark St. What: “Pure Lies” is a show that will play on your senses but, most importantly, will have you in stitches. Over the course of 60 minutes, you will witness mind-boggling sleight of hand combined with engaging humor. $35-$45 at chicagomagiclounge.com

JANUARY 9

“From Here to There” Artists Talk: Stories That Move Us When: 6:30 p.m.

Where: Spertus Institute, 610 S. Michigan Ave. What: A multimedia exhibition featuring works by four contemporary Chicago artists— Linda Robinson Gordon, Ellen

Holtzblatt, Lilach Schrag, and Michelle Stone—who explore the relationship between the physical and the spiritual. Providing additional context, the Artist Talk allows the artists to discuss how their life experiences informed their work for the exhibition. FREE. Reservations can be made at spertus. edu. The “From Here to There” exhibit has been extended to March 1.

JANUARY 9 - 11

Aura CuriAtlas Physical Theatre When: 8 p.m.

Where: Steppenwolf Theatre, 1650 N. Halsted St. What: Aura CuriAtlas will perform selections from their “Dream Logic” repertoire followed by the Midwest premiere of their newest work, “The Fool and The World.”

“Dream Logic” is a curious collection of magical short stories that invite the audience to find enchantment in ordinary situations explored in unexpected ways. “The Fool and The World” brings to life the characters and situations depicted in the 22 Major Arcana cards of the Tarot deck.Joyfulness, athleticism, and reliance on physical storytelling make Aura CuriAtlas engaging. After the show, the performers chat with members of the audience. $20-$25 at steppenwolf. org or call 312-335-1650.

JANUARY 9 - 19

The Chicago Sketch Comedy Festival When: Various Where: Stage 773, 1225 W. Belmont Ave. What: The Chicago Sketch Comedy Festival gathers writers, performers, and comedy lovers together to create and celebrate in the comedy capital of the world. It is also the largest festival of its kind in the world, hosting over 180 groups from around the globe, performing nearly 200 shows over eight days. Every hour, on the hour, performances take place in each of Stage 773's four spaces. Individual shows, as well as day, weekend, or full-festival passes available at stage773.com.

JANUARY 10 - 26

Fillet of Solo Festival When: Fri 7 & 8:30 p.m.; Sat 4, 5:30, 7, & 8:30 p.m.; Sun 4 & 5:30 p.m.

Where: Lifeline Theatre, 6912 N. Glenwood Ave.; The Teal Room, 6956 N. Glenwood Ave. What: Celebrating the breadth of Chicago’s enduring storytelling and live lit scene, Lifeline brings together a dozen storytelling collectives and numerous solo performers for a three-week, multi-venue selection of powerful personal stories. $10 per performance, full festival passes available for $60 at lifelinetheatre.com.

Winter Chamber Music Festival When: 7:30 p.m.

Where: Pick-Staiger Concert Hall, Northwestern Campus, 50 Arts Circle Drive, Evanston What: A six-concert exploration of centuries of chamber music brilliance. 2020 performers include: James Ehnes, violin, and Andrew Armstrong, piano (Jan 10 & 12); Aizuri Quartet (Jan 17); Dudok Quartet Amsterdam (Jan 19); Bienen Faculty and Guests (Jan 24); and American String Quartet with Stephanie Blythe, mezzosoprano (Jan 26). $30 per performance ($10 student) at concertsatbienen.org or 847467-4000.

JANUARY 10 & 11

The Second City After Hours When: 11 p.m.

Where: UP Comedy Club (inside Second City), 230 W. North Ave. What: Stay up late with The Second City as it brings you its latest and greatest. It’s interactive. It’s hyperactive.

It’s the most fun you’ve had past bedtime. Come see an entirely improvised, entirely ridiculous 60 minutes that’ll leave you with a full-fledged comedy hangover. Tickets start at $18 at secondcity. com

JANUARY 11

Chicago Ale Fest When: 3 - 7 p.m.

Where: Aon Grand Ballroom at Navy Pier, 600 E. Grand Ave. What: The fest will feature more than 100 craft beer samples, Chicago’s favorite food trucks and a DJ spinning all-your favorites. $50 at chicagoalefest.com, early entry at 2 p.m. $10 more.

Full Moon Vauedville When: 7 p.m.

Where: Prop Thtr, 3502 N. Elston Ave. What: Curious Theatre Branch and Prop Thtr kick off the 31st annual Rhinoceros Theater Festival with the traditional Full Moon Vaudeville, an evening of recitations, remembrances, songs and stories.

The Vaudeville is hosted by the band The Crooked Mouth, and will feature performances by harpist Tom Hack, prison educator Jenny Alexander, singer Leo Brün, standup Stephanie Weber, and an excerpt from Chris Vanderark’s "The Spacewoman of Dutlerville, MI," a new work in performance at Rhino Fest. $15 at rhinofest.com

JAN 11 - FEB 21

Rhinofest When: Various Where: Prop Thtr, 3502 N. Elston Ave. What: Rhinoceros Theater Festival (Rhinofest) is billed as Chicago’s longest-running fringe theater festival. Choose from dozens of creative new shows daily for only $15 at rhinofest.com

JANUARY 12

12th Annual Chili Cook-Off When: 12 - 5 p.m.

Where: Fitzgerald’s Night Club, 6615 Roosevelt Rd., Berwyn What: A fun-filled day watching the NFL’s divisional playoffs with an epic chili throw-down and great live music. Proceeds benefit Opportunity Knocks, a nonprofit that serves young people with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

Register your chili to compete in the cook-off, or attend the event for $25 ($30 at the door) at opportunityknocksnow.org

JANUARY 14

David Broza & Friends When: 8 p.m.

Where: City Winery, 1200 W. Randolph St. What: Israeli superstar David Broza's charismatic and energetic performances have brought worldwide audiences a fusion of the three different countries in which he was

raised: Israel, Spain, and England. His famous guitar playing ranges from flamenco-flavored rhythmic and percussion techniques and whirlwind finger picking to a signature rock ’n’ roll sound. Broza’s sound utilizes his ability to take on the troubadour tradition, featuring lyrics of the world’s greatest poets. $40 - $65 at citywinery. com

JANUARY 15 - 19

Tomorrow Never Knows When: Various Where: Lincoln Hall, 2424 N. Lincoln Ave.; Shubas, 3159 N. Bridgeport Ave.; Metro, 3720 N. Clark St.; Hideout, 1354 W. Wabansia Ave.; Sleeping Village, 3734 W. Belmont Ave. What: Founded in 2005, Lincoln Hall and Schubas’ Tomorrow Never Knows (TNK) has proven for over a decade that music fans will brave the brutal Chicago cold for a good show. Taking place over the course of five days in January, TNK gathers the best of rising local indie artists as well as acclaimed national acts, including both musicians and comedians. Some of this year’s artists include: Goth Babe, Allday, IDER, Liza Treyger, Buck Meek, Deeper and many more. All shows $15-$20, with a special Tomorrow Never Knows 5-day pass for $100 at lh-st.com

-compiled by Dave Hamilton

Aura CuriAtlas Physical Theatre: See January 9 - 11

David Broza & Friends: See January 14

courtesy photo

courtesy photo

www.streetwise.org

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Vendors Russell Adams, John Hagan and Donald Morris chat about the world of sports with Executive Assistant Patrick Edwards.

Guessing how the NFL playoffs will play out John: Let’s talk about the NFL: teams already in the playoffs, and those who may make it. Donald, how do you see the playoffs playing out?

SPORTSWISE

Donald: We’ll have the Green Bay Packers going up against a team with a lot of experience: Yes, the New England Patriots. Tom Brady. Brady is somebody who’s always prepared. Dubbed the Comeback Kid, there’s no game he doesn’t have a high chance of pulling out. He’s not perfect, but more times than not, the Patriots win. They win championships. I have no issue whatsoever with them giving the Packers a problem in the Super Bowl because I don’t like the Packers that much. And with the Bears done, there’s no other team I want to root for.

Russell: In the NFC, with last year's playoffs team Bears not making it, we have in their place Green Bay, who did not make it last year. With this said, I’m leaning towards the New Orleans Saints and the Patriots, two teams who each have a veteran quarterback— Drew Brees and Tom Brady, respectively. Other than the Patriots in the AFC, I like the Baltimore Ravens, the Houston Texans, and the Kansas City Chiefs. In the NFC, though I really only like the Bears, I will give a 'lil nod to the Seattle Seahawks and the Dallas Cowboys. I can see Seattle Seahawks’ Russell Wilson upsetting in the NFC and

Have comments or questions for the SportsWise team?

Please send them to dhamilton@streetwise.org

Kansas City’s Pat Mahomes doing the same in the AFC. Patrick: We have an interesting playoffs scenario forming. The San Francisco 49’ers are currently in the fifth slot, which is huge in that they’ve pretty much played the best of all teams (on both sides) this year, so we could definitely witness an “upset” or two. Don, I’m going to tag along with you with the finals being Packers versus Patriots.

I do like the Saints, though.

Another factor in all of this is the battle between the Dallas Cowboys and the Philadelphia Eagles—teams with average records. In the AFC, the Ravens are currently in the top slot, but I’m sticking with the Patriots.

John: I see two fascinating battles between Houston and Tennessee—a battle for the fourth seed in the AFC

South—and Dallas and Philadelphia in the NFC East. We basically know who the six teams will be in both leagues.

The NFC is wide open; even the battle between the two average-record-having teams is huge, because there’s no clear-cut winner. I’m going with the Packers, because I believe the NFL wants to see Aaron Rodgers in the Super Bowl. The AFC? Unless New England drops to #3, New England will make— and win—the Super Bowl.

Any final thoughts?

Donald: Patriots and Packers. Rodgers, you’re looking good, but you’re going up against Brady—the aforementioned Comeback Kid— arguably better than any other quarterback out there.

Patriots win.

Russell: Super Bowl LIV: Saints versus the Patriots.

Now, remember, these are only predictions, so don’t sweat me!

Patrick: One through six— including the wild card teams—is a pretty good lineup. Having a bye will not automatically give an edge—other than not losing in the first round—especially if you’re in the NFC and have to face one of the two lowest seeds: San Francisco or Minnesota; even in the AFC, the leaders may have to face the Pittsburgh Steelers or the Buffalo Bills—and, again, these four teams I mentioned are the LOWEST-seeded teams in the playoffs. This should be good.

John: A shout-out to a couple of dark horses: the AFC’s Kansas City Chiefs and the NFC’s Seattle Seahawks.

Look out for these two.

A LETTER TO MY 25-YEAR-OLD SELF Edited and compiled by Tony Inglis. Additional contributions at StreetWise from Sydney Wirtz and Jack Maddox.

As always around the festive period, INSP asks vendors across the street paper network to contribute to a collaborative feature. Since 2019 is INSP’s 25th anniversary, the resulting feature is a twist on the now-ubiquitous "Letter to My Younger Self" series made famous by The Big Issue UK (with the best of them now compiled into a book) and reworked by many INSP members. We asked each vendor to write to (or in some cases about) their 25-year-old self. For many, this meant dipping into the past. For others, it was a glimpse into the future. And for some, it was a good way to reflect on life right now. Of course, many are stories of hardship, but all of them are tales of hope.

ROBERT SMITH

STREETWISE, CHICAGO, USA

LUISE SLAMANIG APROPOS, SALZBURG, AUSTRIA

Today, I am very happy with how I have managed to live through life, with my own apartment and my own domain where I can simply lock the door. A warm home is worth a lot and I truly appreciate it. As a 25-year-old today, I would think this about myself: "Hopefully this will never happen to me;" or "It's not easy for her either." Perhaps my 25-yearold self would encourage me.

If I were 25 now, I would perhaps be well-informed about what is going on. But with selling the street paper, I don't think that many young people would stick it out. I would advise my 25-year-old self never to give up, no matter how difficult it is. There is always a way out of a sticky situation because I have experienced it myself.

25-year-old Robert, stay committed, stay positive. Definitely stay positive. And if you do get a rejection, don’t give up and please do not curse the customer. They can have a bad day and come back nine times out of 10 and just give you money, just because they went off on you. Just keep it positive and if there’s any rejection, you know, say “have a nice day” and keep moving.

I was in a depression when I was 25. It was rough. And going through depression, I didn’t care about how I dressed, what motivated me, nothing. That would cause me to drop out of school and do stuff that’s illegal, just because. That’s part of some of the reasons I derailed from the good part of life. Basically depression.

To 25-year-olds now, embrace the moment, but always strive to do better, no matter what you do. Never give up, never. I’ve been through hard times and I have a testimony.

So, if it looks like the road is hard, difficulty first, then ease.

There’s nothing easy in the world, but do not give up, keep striving because you will be successful. Keep God in your life at all times.

LEE A. HOLMES

STREETWISE, CHICAGO, USA

If I could go back in time and meet myself? I’d tell him, to stay focused, stay in school, and strive hard for the things that you want.

To others, be careful what you do. Be careful who you associate with. Think before you act, because your actions will come back to haunt you.

THURMAN LESLEY STREETWISE, CHICAGO, USA

My name is Thurman Lesley and I am 76 years old.

When I was 25, it was 1968. I was out there working two jobs and starting a family. During the week, I was a tool and die maker and a carpenter. On the weekend I took photographs. I just had to make some money.

The world as a whole has gotten a little worse since then, I think. Crime is out of hand now in comparison.

Everyone wants to do something slick, people are beating other people in the streets. It seems like it didn’t used to be this way. As for how my 25-year-old self would feel about me today, surprised is the word. First of all, I’m still here. I could have been dead by now. Second, I intended to be a millionaire. Not to mention at that time I was so busy working that I didn’t know anything about street papers so that would surely be a surprise.

My advice for 25-year-olds today is to save as much money as you can and invest it wisely. That can go a long way as you get older.

MAXIME VALCOURT L'ITINÉRAIRE, MONTREAL, CANADA I turned 25 in 1987. It was a happier time back then.

People were having fun. I was listening to Led Zeppelin, the Stones, Pink Floyd and some great Québécois bands like Offenbach, Harmonium, and Cano. I would go dancing in clubs. Seems the 80s were the good times. Plenty of parties, disco too. The fun lasted till the year 2000. Then everything went downhill. Drugs and alcohol took their toll.

To my 25-year-old self: It’s true, you’re having fun.

You’re young, you’re healthy. But it’s not going to last.

You will get sick. There will be hospitalizations, detox, therapies. The fun will be gone. If you stop doing stupid things and hanging out with the wrong people, you can find a good job. you might even get to travel and lead a good life.

Hey! You’re an honest guy! You’re a hard worker. You did OK compared to others not as lucky as you. Thank God you are now clean and sober! You are empathetic because you’ve been there and back. You’ve got a mini-van, you’re L’Itinéraire’s top seller. You did good! I’m happy for you.

To all 25-year-olds: You can do it! Work hard, look ahead. If you need help, there are a lot of resources out there for you.

ANN WARKE

THE BIG ISSUE UK, LONDON, UK

You are going to make mistakes! Like everyone does, don’t be too hard on yourself, it will help you understand people and their mistakes. And please don’t allow friends, family and society to make you feel small because you didn’t live your life the way they expected! Live your life your way, like you’re going to do, and try hard not to worry too much.

You will be liked and loved.

DARYL

THE BIG ISSUE AUSTRALIA

I found out about The Big Issue just after I turned 25. I started selling the street paper when I turned 26, back in 2004. Facing long term unemployment and living by myself, unfortunately a lot of people would tell you it gets a bit hard to cover all your living expenses. I was behind on my rent, and back then due to a lack of experience, qualifications, skills, and having no proper transport, my job prospects were very low. I decided to work for The Big Issue to pay the bills.

If my 25-year-old self saw me, he’d probably be shocked at my appearance! These days I’m clean shaven, but back then I wasn’t. I had a big beard, and if you’d even suggest for me to trim it, I would say no! My dress is different; the way I present myself now is completely different.

If I could go back and speak to my 25-year-old self, I’d say that you think you know a lot, but you don’t. You’re actually quite naive. You’ve got a lot of growing up to do, a lot of personality to develop. Even though you might think you’re smart, like a lot of people in your age demographic, you’re not. There are other people your age who are a lot more switched on then you are, so you’ve got a long way to go!

www.streetwise.org

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JOHN HAGAN

ANTONIO MUNGUÍA

My name is John Hagan and I am 49 years old.

My vendor locations are in the Loop, Lincoln Square, and on Sundays at Old Saint Patrick’s Catholic Church. I turned 25 in the year 1995. When I was 25 years old, the world seemed easier.

For example, a lot of things that are expensive now, weren’t expensive then. If my 25 year old self were to look at me today, he would think that I have really grown up. When I was younger, I was very naive. I didn’t know much about street papers in my 20s. I knew what StreetWise was, but I thought that it was just organized panhandling. I didn’t realize that it was actually a professional way to earn an income. My advice to current 25-yearolds is to give opportunities like StreetWise a chance. This is a way to supplement your income. StreetWise is different than other jobs because everyday is payday. Another important piece of advice that I would give to new StreetWise vendors is to learn to budget your money.

“What we can fix since yesterday?”

STREETWISE, CHICAGO, USA

MI VALEDOR, MEXICO CITY, MEXICO

Hello! My dear Antonio, I come from the year 2019, I congratulate you for having begun working at this mall that we like so much. I am doing well.

Surely you will ask yourself, what have we dedicated ourselves to in the last year, given our taste in reading and culture? We are now working in a cultural magazine, not only do we sell and promote it, we also take photos and all of a sudden we write. Very often we go to museums, galleries, book fairs, exhibitions and presentations. I know that you like all of this, and that you would like even more the fact that, in your work, they have done these type of events. It is good that you feel proud to be a part of this project and that now you know how to get ahead from nothing, earning yourself the respect, and perhaps the admiration, of people.

Please do not put in a broken bag everything that makes you unique, as well as the advice of your parents, who were always loving you and your sister, until the last of their sighs, and now they are stars.

Be prepared to shed many tears, since each one will be worth it, just like every drop of sweat. With all my devotion to you, evolving from my own past, for one of your many futures.

BOJAN VULOVIĆ LICEULICE, BELGRADE, SERBIA

When I was 25 I was maybe a bit more hardworking, resourceful and also a bit cleverer than I am now. But, my music taste has stayed the same – I still adore classical music.

My advice to all young people is: brains over brawn. Invest in your mind when the time is right so you have less regrets later.

MARIA JAMES

ONE STEP AWAY, PHILADELPHIA, USA

Welcome to being 25 years old! You have two very beautiful daughters. You’re separated from your husband, the father of both daughters. You dream of getting back together but you know in the back of your mind it won’t happen. The children will miss him and suffer the most but they are a part of you too and you feel their pain. You have each other and love each other very much, so that’s all that matters.

You enjoy time alone now since they started school and now it’s time to think about your future too. First you will get your diploma and learn a job skill. You like clerical work, so that’s your next plan, which is successful.

You also notice parenting is becoming more a responsibility so you have to be mom and dad. You’re alone, completely alone with two daughters, and it’s harder than you thought it ever would be. Where is this husband? Has he abandoned us completely? You feel sorry for the girls but they are very young so they don’t understand completely yet and now it’s time to begin letting go and living again.

The campus is a nice place to do this and that’s where we live. In University City you meet all nationalities and there’s nice parks for the children. They have an excellent school program and day care. You meet new friends. You’re too busy to think about anything else.

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GABRIEL RUSZNYAK TROTT-WAR, STUTTGART, GERMANY

When I’m 25, I would like to find a good job, a nice wife, a nice flat, and a nice car (laughs). I did a threeyear long traineeship with a car mechanic in Rimavská Sobota. I want to work in Germany, but before that I want to learn more German because it’s difficult to find work without speaking the language.

MARIA DRANGOU SHEDIA, ATHENS, GREECE

Hello, 25-year-old girl!! I am writing this letter to you after 28 years. It’s been a long time, and a lot of things have happened that nowadays help me to face you with more love and understanding.

After so much time and through the experience I have gained as a middle-aged woman, I can see clearly your faults both professionally and personally.

But at this moment, I am not here to judge you. The only thing I will tell you is that I appreciate and love you exactly as you are. I am certain that if the conditions in your life, your upbringing and the environment in which you lived were different, then you would have made other choices.

I want to tell you that life is in front of you and that you can achieve whatever you choose.

You can dream of and envisage a better future. Don’t be afraid of claiming whatever you want. Everything is possible in this life, as long as you know what exactly we want and to do our best so as to realize it.

Always bear in mind that you are a perfect creation and that your existence on Earth is not accidental.

Your mission is to discover your destination and to follow your own path. There, you will meet a lot of fellow travellers. Learn to love and to share your life with these people, because they are your best friends and teachers. Because no one can succeed alone. We need each other. Finally, I want to encourage you so that every moment in life is worthy. Life is so beautiful that you will never have your fill and, as you live it, it seems to you more and more fantastic.

So, never give up. Enjoy whatever life offers you. Be glad.

STEVE ZEUNER

STRAßENKREUZER, NUREMBERG, GERMANY

In 2004, I was 25 years old. I had a more realistic picture of the world than I did at 18. I wasn’t as naive as I had been. Basically, you’re not a child anymore and you can’t behave like one when you're a young adult. I already felt more comfortable in life than I did before.

My 25-year-old self would be fairly proud of who I am now. At that time, I didn’t have very high expectations for my future and what I wanted to achieve. As a 25-year-old, I also wouldn't have guessed that I’d have so many responsibilities in the future, like I do in my position as a spokesperson for Straßenkreuzer vendors [at the street paper, vendors choose a representative to be their spokesperson every two years].

I’ve been selling Straßenkreuzer since I was 18. Therefore, at 25, I already thought that it was a really good thing, I had a really positive opinion about the organization. But at that age, I wouldn’t have thought that working as a vendor in the future would have helped me this much.

25-year-olds should start to be realistic and move away from their childish naivety. Apart from that, it’s important to always be on the ball, always go to work. Also, they shouldn't worry about improving themselves and being successful, they should be courageous in life and trust themselves.

FREDERICKA BOWMAN STREETWISE, CHICAGO, USA

My name is Fredericka and I am 55 years old. I was 25 in 1989 and things were definitely different back then. When I was 25 I was all over the place. I had a lot of friends and we did everything together, I didn’t miss out on anything. The 25-year-old version of myself would be proud of who I am today because I am 24 years clean and sober. I’ve worked hard at that and am very proud of myself for it. When I was that age, I didn’t know much about street papers but I know that learning as much as possible through the news in any form is important for all 25-year-olds as individuals rising into adulthood. The advice that I have for all 25-year-olds today would be to stay away from drugs.

They can cause all sorts of problems and get in the way of a lot of opportunities.

www.streetwise.org

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A. ALLEN

KJETIL JOHNSEN

Take it easy, don’t rush things. I was rushing through life. At 25 it looks like you’re going to live forever and everything is immediate… You try to get more really quick, so you have more fun. But actually, you should have just taken a little time out and been able to step back and learn that life is not like that and you have to take responsibility for the things you do. And that’s one of the things that selling papers for StreetWise has taught me: to be responsible and to take care of myself.

You took your guitar and got on a plane to Seattle at the age of 25.

In the USA, hopefully your music career would get up to speed. The experience with drugs was already there, and together with your friend you soon discovered that the heroin was thick as tar in Seattle, and – boom! You were hooked. I would tell you not to be so cocky. A lot of good musicians went down the drain because of heroin, and you were no better. The world was easy back then, and you were always told you had a talent for songwriting. If you had seen a picture of what you look like now, you would have thought, "I'm as rock 'n' roll as a 53-year-old as I am now!"

STREETWISE, CHICAGO, USA

My 25-year-old self would not even recognise me… I’m celebrating 10 years of sobriety and 25-year-old me would have never thought that I would be sober. Never, ever thought that I would be sober. I was looking to die young, so my 25-year-old self could not fathom me now, being sober for 10 years.

My advice for 25-year-olds is to not waste your life away, to try to be productive, try to do something for yourself and do something for someone else.

ASFALT, STAVANGER, NORWAY

I was only a musician at the age of 25, and have only experience in giving advice to other musicians. You’re too young, too headstrong - come on. Don’t follow my footsteps: you end up shot at, stabbed and beaten before you get out of bed. Run while you can. And dress as you please, wear whatever you want! Take a look in the mirror and ask yourself, is this me today? Seize the day.

TAUBI

KRALJI ULICE, LJUBLJANA, SLOVENIA My dear Taubi,

Do you remember last night's needle in the park? Probably not, you were so damn stoned. I'm not going to tell you that you should stop doing drugs. No. You'll get it in a few years’ time. Question is, why was that needle so important to you since you were already buzzed? Taubi, you're a jackass. You were in such a rush that you left the dirty needle on the ground in front of the bench. What if a kid found it and got pricked on it? No, you didn’t think about that, because you could hardly think at all. And if he got infected? Hepatitis? HIV? AIDS? Don't know about them? Well, you will soon, but some divine force will love you so much you won't get personal with any of them.

Even though you don’t give a shit about anything, especially not about yourself.

What did you eat yesterday, Taubi? What are you going to eat today? Will you be surfing the trashcans again? Go ahead. Don't be hungry. However, this will change over time. The time will come when you’ll have your own room and you will not be sleeping on benches in parks or in cellars anymore. You will have your own food.

And don't think about suicide anymore, because you’ll never be successful at it. Instead try remembering every moment of your shitty life. Every stupid thing you’ve done - especially the hardest – and every beautiful moment.

Do you remember your girlfriend? You would do anything for her. No? She'll occupy your head again in years to come. I know I'm already getting on your nerves because I know you get pissed off at every moral lesson you hear. And you still will when you reach my age.

You’ll go to prison shortly. Be smart. I know very well who you are because I was you at that time. Don't act out behind bars. Be quiet and obedient, you’ll make it easier for yourself. I just got out of prison recently and it was a completely different experience from your time inside. Well, times are changing. However, foolish actions teach you good and hard life lessons. You will only get to realize this later.

P.S. If you’ve got balls, save this letter and read it again when you are 50 years old.

For you will lose everything in your life but keep this letter as your own eyes.

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Just housing amendment gives returnees a fair chance to secure housing The Cook County Board’s Just Housing Amendment took effect on Dec. 31, 2019. The amendment protects more than one million residents of Cook County and their families by giving people with arrest and conviction records a fair chance at finding housing in Cook County.

The Just Housing Initiative, cochaired by Housing Action Illinois and the Chicago Area Fair Housing Alliance, has worked for years to achieve this major step toward economic and racial justice for families. Fair access to a safe, affordable home is fundamental to building a stable life and caring for yourself and your family, they note. Research shows that when individuals with records have stable homes, recidivism rates are reduced.

The leadership, testimony, advocacy, and enduring support of people with “lived experience” was critical to the amendment’s passage. Sharing personal challenges of trying to find a place to call home changed hearts and minds and made it clear the amendment was needed by real people, right now.

The Just Housing Amendment: • Ensures that housing providers and housing authorities do not consider arrests, juvenile records, and sealed and expunged records when evaluating someone’s application for rental housing; • Protects tenants and homeowners from being denied housing based on convictions more than three years old; • Requires housing providers to conduct an individualized assessment for applicants with convictions that are less than three years old, considering factors such as the nature of the offense and how much time has passed since it happened.

One in 3 Americans has an arrest record before they turn 23.

Blanket housing bans against people with records disproportionately impact Black and Brown families as well as people with disabilities; they are often an avenue for race- and disability-based

The Cook County protections will go into effect before the coldest months of winter set in, helping fight housing instability for the most vulnerable members of our community.

Supporters spent four years working to pass the Just Housing Amendment and another seven months working to pass rules to implement it. Together, the Just Housing Initiative’s 100+ supporting organizations and allies prevailed. The steering committee includes Alliance to End Homelessness in Suburban Cook County, Chicago Area Fair Housing Alliance, Chicago Lawyers’ Committee for Civil Rights, Community Renewal Society, Housing Action Illinois, Housing Choice Partners, John Marshall Law School Fair Housing Legal Clinic, Safer Foundation, Sargent Shriver National Center on Poverty Law, Supportive Housing Providers Association, Westside Health Authority, and the Woodstock Institute.

FROM THE STREETS

Troy O’Quin, a veteran and community leader who now lives and works in Cook County, was joined by his wife and two daughters as he testified in April about his difficulties accessing housing due to his past record. As Troy says, “it takes only a second to break the law but a lifetime to live with the consequences.

One second, one crime, one serious lack of judgment…in America this can be a life sentence.”

discrimination. Jurisdictions across the country have passed similar fair housing measures as an integral component of criminal justice reform.

Commissioner Brandon Johnson was the chief sponsor on the Cook County Board, while early champions were co-sponsors Commissioner Larry Suffredin and Commissioner Jeffrey Tobolski.

Board President Toni Preckwinkle added her support. The Cook County Human Rights Commission spent considerable time delving into the issue and discussing how to best implement it.

The Just Housing Initiative will be doing education and outreach with would-be tenants, landlords, and members of the public to help people understand the new protections in 2020.

- by Suzanne Hanney, from email sources

Gianna Baker, Co-Executive Director of CAFHA (Chicago Area Fair Housing Alliance) surrounded by Just Housing Leaders from a w wIllinois, w . sShriver t r eCenter, e t wandi Safer s e Foundation. .org variety of organizations, including CAFHA, CSH, CLCCRUL, Housing Action

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Point-in-time count is looking for volunteers The annual Point-In-Time homeless count, which provides the Chicago Department of Family and Support Services (DFSS) a “snapshot” of Chicago’s homeless population, will be 9 p.m. to 3 a.m. Thursday, January 23. The U.S Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) requires the count be conducted on the street every two years, but Chicago finds that data gathered annually is more useful to demonstrate the need for federal funding, for service and resource planning, and to raise public awareness about homelessness.

Volunteers are instrumental in participating on teams that canvass the entire city in just a few hours. Training and materials are provided that night. If you are interested in volunteering and have not previously volunteered for the Point-In-Time Homeless Count, please visit www.chicago.gov/city/en/depts/fss.html and click on FAQ. To register, please go to : https://www.surveymonkey.com/ r/2020homelesscount or email homelesscount@cityofchicago.org The City conducts a homeless count in order to receive federal homeless funding from HUD. Chicago and the continuum of homeless service providers must demonstrate need by collecting data on how many persons experience homelessness on one given night.

The count includes a tally and survey of every homeless person in shelters and a canvass of streets and public spaces for those unsheltered.

Every volunteer will receive training on the night of the count.

You do not need experience to volunteer. Anyone over age 18 is qualified.

INSIDE STREETWISE: Vendor A. Allen on legal weed 20/20, of course, is perfect vision, but 2020 can bring you blurred vision with the legalization of marijuana.

I am not looking forward to the legalization of recreational marijuana.

My Dad would have called it, "looking forward to getting your head bad." He was totally against using drugs because he believed weed would lead to harder drugs.

In my case, it was true. I went from grass and weed to heroin. At first it was fun and sociable, even though it was illegal. Everyone in high school was doing it. At least that was what I was told.

Everyone was not doing it, but it seemed like it, because of the social networks with which I associated. There was a lot of peer pressure to be with the "in" crowd.

So, now in 2020, cannabis will be legal. I sort of feel sorry for some of the young people in today's society because even if they have discipline and the luxury of not doing something illegal, they will have easy access. So, I would like to encourage young folks who don't smoke weed to continue to stay focused and not to smoke weed, not to "get your head bad." It's better to have 20/20 vision than blurred vision.

You can get a lot of things done when your head is clear.

I'm speaking from experience, having been sober for more than 10 years. It's better to deal with life on life's terms than to be influenced by peers or drugs that blur your vision and knock you off your square. To all my friends, family and associates, stay focused and keep your 20/20 in the year 2020.

Volunteers will be trained and divided into teams between 9 and 10 p.m. Teams will be dispatched after 10 p.m. to cover their assigned areas and will usually require several hours, so that they will not typically return to their site until 2 or 2:30 a.m.

Teams are instructed not to separate under any circumstances or to venture alone or to enter any abandoned building or nonpublic space. Volunteers will be partnered into teams of four or five, with at least one experienced team member. They will spend the evening traveling by car and on foot. If you do not have a car, you may still volunteer and will be assigned to a team with a volunteer who has a car.

Unfortunately, volunteers are not paid or reimbursed for any expenses, such as transportation to and from the site location. They are encouraged to bring layers of warm clothing for themselves, including gloves and a hat in case of snow and wet weather. A clipboard, flashlight, and pencils to use with the forms are also helpful. For their own and their team’s safety, they should not bring any large sums of money, items/food to pass out to people who are homeless, or other valuables. Other questions or concerns? Contact homelesscount@cityofchicago.org or call 312-746-8864.

–Suzanne Hanney, from online source

Vendor A. Allen (Santa) poses with carolers during the GiveAShi*t Pop-Up Shop on Dec. 6, 2019.

Streetwise 12/2/19 Crossword To solve the Sudoku puzzle, each row, column and box must contain the

numbers 1 to 9.

Sudoku

©2019 PuzzleJunction.com

7 Polynesian 38 “Ol’ Man paste River” 8 Chinese zodiac composer animal 42 More rational 9 Demeanor 45 They can be 10 Sheltered, tossed nautically 49 Fall from grace 11 Impose, as a 51 Start out tax 54 Terrestrial 12 Ticks off lizard 15 Tough going 56 Femme fatale 20 Dabbling ducks 57 Cave dwellers 22 Off one’s feed 58 Nobelist Pavlov 24 Airedale 59 Horror film 25 Bizet work staple 26 Former 60 Angler’s hope 27 Trunk Sheepskin 61 Kind of holder 29 Go belly up agreement 31 Applies lightly 62 Test choice Hard to find 32 Twosomes ntentions 63 The good life 33 Miscue Mount with 64 Henna and Copyright ©2019 PuzzleJunction.com 34 Stadium pirit others San Diego team walkways 67 Neighbor of Still-life subjects 36 Regard Ger.

Theory type Went ‘round and round Steer clear of Calendar abbr. mpressive display Bakery items Extinct flightless bird Recycle Bygone blade Is that ___?”

Leg joints

Copyright ©2019 PuzzleJunction.com

©PuzzleJunction.com

Solution LastSudoku Week’s Puzzle Answers

Solution

Solution

Find your nearest StreetWise Vendor at www.streetwise.org

Crossword Across 1 OPEC land 6 Bursts 10 Mouselike animal 14 Little rascal 15 Stead 16 Declare openly 17 Third canonical hour 18 Exuberance 19 Shoestring 20 Letter opener 21 Query 22 Majority 23 Blackguard 25 Beget 27 Beneficial 31 Team supporter?

35 Starch source 36 Break loose 40 Epoch 41 Goodyear product 68 Not fake 42 Elementary 69 Bug-eyed particle 70 Vote into office 43 Many a 71 Interjects tournament 72 City between 44 Self center Boston and 45 Asian skiff Salem 48 Guitar part 73 White gold, 49 Blue moon, e.g. e.g.

51 Unrefined 53 Executes Down 55 Wood-dressing 1 Mil. transport tool 2 Like some 56 Whole bunch drinks 58 Address book 3 Unadorned abbr.

4 Gym site 60 Miles away 5 Short synopsis 64 Dog pest 6 Implore 65 Mongolian 7 Perfume expanse ingredients 66 All of the 8 Valleys’ chums words in a 9 Catch some language rays

©2019 PuzzleJunction.com

10 11 12 13 22 24 26 27 28 29 30 32 33 34 37 38 39

Appraises Face shape Wrestling hold Merino mother Scottish hillside Stein contents Rascal Unqualified Goat-like antelope Kind of message Other side Bay of Naples isle Curved moldings Tither’s amount Mobile device card Bluecoat Gasteyer of “Mean Girls”

43 Wide of the mark 45 Put on board 46 Sailor’s affirmative 47 The land of ___ 50 Worthy principles 52 Flowering shrub 54 Smelly smoke 55 Set straight 56 Downhill racer 57 Toxic element 59 Black, to poets 61 Tumbled 62 Olympics jump 63 Puerto ___ 64 Monk’s title 65 Guy’s date 67 Hog haven

How StreetWise Works

Our Mission

Orientation Participants complete a monthlong orientation, focusing on customer service skills, financial literacy and time management to become a badged vendor.

Financial Literacy Vendors buy StreetWise for $0.90, and sell it for $2. The profit of $1.10 goes directly to the licensed vendor for them to earn a living.

Supportive Services StreetWise provides referrals, advocacy and other support to assist participants in meeting their basic needs and getting out of crisis.

S.T.E.P. Program StreetWise’s S.T.E.P. Program provides job readiness training and ongoing direct service support to ensure participants’ success in entering the traditional workforce.

Solution

THE PLAYGROUND

To empower the entrepreneurial spirit through the dignity of self-employment by providing Chicagoans facing homelessness with a combination of supportive social services, workforce development resources and immediate access to gainful employment.

PuzzleJ

15

Saturday, January 18 11:00 am Grant Park www.womensmarchchicago.org outreach@womensmarchchicago.org

5 issue areas • • • •

2020 Census Climate Change Gun Violence Prevention Women’s Health Rights and Access • Get Out The Vote

WMC will honor its marchers with disabilities by having them lead the March.