By Mark Weyermuller -
Chicago Mayor Lori Lightfoot made a surprise appearance on Montrose Beach Saturday. She was the official starter for the annual Safe Haven 5k to end homelessness for veterans.
Lightfoot spoke on stage before the start for several minutes with her main theme of “equality.” Unfortunately, she did not address the major issues that most Chicago residents are concerned about, such as less crime, better schools, less taxes, stemming out migration, bringing in more private sector jobs, and fixing the city's pension mess.
The mayor was gracious and stayed around to take photos with organizers and participants, including a quick selfie with me. Neli Vazquez Rowland, President/Co-founder of A Safe Haven Foundation introduced the mayor to the crowd (see photo below)
A Safe Haven has a mission to end homelessness in Chicago. It helps families and individuals experiencing homelessness or crisis to achieve sustainable self-sufficiency. Their center is located west of Chicago's Loop at 2750 West Roosevelt where they have a transitional housing facility with the capacity of 406 beds for 210 men, 69 women, and 127 children. Much of their focus is on helping those in their care find employment to break the cycle of homelessness.
Chairman of Cook County's Board of Review Dan Patlak (pictured above with wife Dulce) fielded a team of over 100 runners and walkers for Team Patlak to participate in the fundraiser. His team wore bright yellow tee shirts saying “Team Patlak Republicans.”
For many years, Patlak says he has been concerned about the plight of returning veterans that have given so much to ensure our freedom and safety, and yet have difficulty assimilating back home.
Others running on Team Patlak included Illinois State Representative Allen Skillicorn, former congressional candidate Vince Kolber, Elk Grove Republican Committeeman Art Niewardowski, Chicago real estate tax attorney Nora Devine, Maine Township Trustee Susan Sweeney, Midwest BBQ for the Brave Organizer Gayla Smith, and Chicago Young Reoublican Vice President Carly Campbell.
More information on on fighting homelessness can be found on their website. http://www.asafehaven.org/
Weyermuller with Chicago Mayor Lori Lightfoot
