RPBG'S 22nd ANNUAL TRENDS WORKSHOP ENGAGES NEIGHBORHOOD HOUSING PROFESSIONALS
Over 100 real estate professionals filled Rogers Park's Rhapsody Theater on Tuesday, January 28, eager to participate in the RPBG's 22nd Annual Trends in the Industry Workshop.
Acclaimed by most members as their favorite RPBG event of the year, attendees sat in groups of 8-9, and lead by a table moderator, reviewed a series of seven questions - each question causing groups to consider an outcomes two years out.
The questions include predicting the Dow Jones, Illinois unemployment rate, price per square foot on sales of a Rogers Park condo, rent on a particular apartment, lending rates and price/door on apartment sales - all two years out. This exercise is less geared towards garnering accurate predictions, and more towards offering a chance for a group of professionals with different skillsets to banter and engage in thoughtful analysis. We engage in this exercise to promote networking and for attendees to share and learn from each other.
At the end of the program, RPBG President continued the tradition of recognizing that table moderator from two years ago who came closest to predicting outcomes for 2025. This year's winner of this coveted honor: long time RPBG Director Tony Benedetto, of Chase Bank.
MEMBER SPOTLIGHT
EMMA MIEDEMA
GABRIEL ENVIRONMENTAL
Gabriel Environmental Services is an engineering firm that has been servicing the Chicagoland area for over 50 years. My goal is to connect with members of each neighborhood to help with Environmental Phase I Site Assessments required from broker, bankers, property developers and beyond.
RPBG'S 30TH ANNIVERSARY VIDEO
CURRENTLY NOT AVAILABLE. STAY TUNED
Watch our video showcasing RPBG's 30 year history. Learn how our organization was formed, of the challenges we faced and the opportunities we've been given.
CHARITABLE ENDEAVORS
Every year, the Rogers Park Builders Group strives to give back to the Rogers Park community in generous, creative and impactful ways. Below are a few projects from recent years that we are most proud.
BASKETBALL TOURNAMENT
For the 2nd year in a row, RPBG and some of its members covered the full cost for Sullivan High School's Annual Middle School Basketball Tournament. This free, double elimination tournament, provided a competitive and fun outlet for 120 Chicago area students. The youth were introduced to this terrific local high school and participated in classroom discussion focusing on Dr. Martin Luther King's legacy as well.
LIFE SKILLS CLASSROOM
One of RPBG's finest moments occurred in 2016, as the RPBG helped transform a regular classroom at Sullivan High School into a full fledged life skills space. Serving the students of the School's special needs program, which helps students with autism and Down Syndrome, the classroom includes a full kitchen, laundry and day bed. The students eagerly use this room to learn basic life skills and independent living.
FUNDRAISER FOR IMMIGRANTS
During Covid, our community partner, Northside Community Resources told us that many immigrant families living in Rogers Park were struggling, as they did not qualify for federal relief programs. RPBG and its members engaged in a special fundraising drive generating contributions totaling $18,000 to support our newest community members.
GLENWOOD ART FESTIVAL
Starting in 2002, RPBG has consistently sponsored the Glenwood Avenue Arts Fest, an important local festival, founded by our Board member Al Goldberg, which showcases our eclectic and creative community. Many of our members also support this summer street festival through booths and generous sponsorships.
CHICAGO HIGH RIDGE FOOTBALL TEAM
A tragic fire resulted in a local youth football program losing its equipment. RPBG's $2500 gift helped purchase new replacement items. Other local businesses and community members joined the RPBG in supporting this drive, which allows for the Hi Ridge Chargers to continue to compete, offering youngsters from around the neighborhood the chance to gain play tackle football, under the guidance of a set of skilled coaches.
RPBG believes that these sorts of time tested activities are what is needed to keep the neighborhood youngsters engaged and involved in challenging and fun activity.
RESTORED VINTAGE MUSICAL INSTRUMENTS FOR LOCAL H.S.
In 2019, Andrew, the Sullivan High School Music Director, told us that someone had uncovered 60 year old musical instruments in the school's basement. "If we can restore these," Andrew promised, "I can create a marching band and revive a rock 'n roll program. RPBG came through with funding, resulting in restoration of dozens of instruments. That Fall, Sullivan had a marching band and a successful rock 'n roll band program. RPBG also underwrote private music lessons in partnership with Loyola University Chicago and renown local music store, Flatts & Sharpe.
SULLIVAN GRADUATION PICNIC
Due to Covid, the Sullivan HS graduates in Spring, 2021 had no prom, and little fanfare to commemorate their important milestone. At Principal Thomas' request, the RPBG covered the cost of a pre-graduation picnic, attended by graduates and staff. Many students happily celebrated their accomplishment over tacos, pizza, raffle prizes and festivity with their friends and SHS's dedicated faculty.