Minding Our Business

The Times They Are a Changin’

by Candace Carr

The Blue Island Arts & Culture Committee held its first fundraiser on Thurs, April 22nd at Tenochtitlán Restaurante. Anyone who was there can tell you; the turnout was fantastic! Young and old, men and women, black, white, Hispanic, a true crosssection of Blue Island. I think it’s safe to say that everyone had a great time.

After a long period in which I felt hopeless and helpless regarding the state of our city, and the detrimental effect that the recession has had on it, I now feel a renewed sense of hope. There were many, many young people who attended. By young, I mean younger than me, of course. It was great to experience a sea of new faces that are ready, willing, and able to make Blue Island a better place to live.

Just a few of the comments I heard and saw the very next day:

“What a coup!”

“I couldn’t believe how many people showed up!”

“This is what Blue Island is all about.”

“Ya know what? I love Blue Island. Love it. The rest of Chicago? You’re just jealous. It was a beautiful night...”

Truthfully, I have not seen this much energy and excitement since the early days of Main Street. Back when we believed that it was possible to re-energize our city. Back when we first moved our business into Blue Island. Back when I had hope.

Recently, an older woman (older than me) stopped in at our new location. “I blame the older generation for the deterioration of the city. We got scared, and many of us moved out, but I’m not leaving. I think this city could be great again.” I think so, too. And so do many of the young people.

If, some day this week, you can’t figure out where or how to spend your $5.00 in Blue Island, send it to the Blue Island Arts & Culture Committee. Good things are afoot, be part of it!

CARR home-garden-holiday
2357 York Street

in Blue Island, my kind of town!

Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world. Indeed, it’s the only thing that has -Margaret Mead