Tough Times.....

This has been a tough time for small retail businesses across the country.

I want to Thank my loyal customers for continuing to support the store, and for their kind words of encouragement.

More and more the small businesses have to compete with the big box discounters, and the online companies that do not have to worry about rent, gas, insurance, etc.
The education field has changed quite a lot in the 25 years I have been at this location. Teachers today spend many hours disciplining the students and teaching for the state tests.

It is hard to find time for art, music or field trips. Soon PE will be eliminated.

That in itself is a tragedy, considering that Illinois was one of the first states to require mandatory Physical Education. Classroom parties and celebrations are going the way of the dinosaur.

Chicago Citywide Science Fair

I was privileged to be a judge at the CPS Student Science Fair on Friday, March 19, 2010. The title of the event was "Cultivating the Seeds of Innovation Through Science and Math", and was held at the Museum of Science and Industry.

I remember doing my own science fair projects in 7th and 8th grade while a student at Myra Bradwell Elementary School. This was in the late 1960's. I think I had a crush on my 8th grade science teacher, and so I tried to do my best. The students had to build their displays out of plywood or particle board. I got more help from my sister, Michele, than from my parents, because she was artistic. I don't think either of us were much into the scientific aspect of the project. I also remember hanging out by Bon Ton Restaurant on 79th and Colfax, because that was where Mr Starnicki(Science) and Mr Reese would go for lunch.
Times have certainly changed in the 43 years since I did my last project. There are decorated display boards, power point presentations, graphs, charts,and detailed written reports. The students at the Science Fair represent a rainbow of colors and a potpourri of nationalities. English is not necessarily the first language. There is no longer a rigid dress code...dresses for females...suits for males.
What has remained the same is the students eagerness to present their project. I judged five students, and then I spent time with some of the other entrants, asking them to explain their project. The students were polite, confident, and knowledgeable about their project. Some were better than others. But all of the students are winners in my book. Love, Debi and Max