ROGERS PARK
a small town in a big city
The Department of Recreation and Parks plants flowers every Spring at the entrance to Loyola Park, gateway to the shores of Lake Michigan.
On May 30, 2023, I left Los Angeles where I was born and raised and drove out the driveway for the last time from the house I had known since 1965. With my dog, Cali in the back seat and my nephew Adam riding shotgun, our journey took us through Arizona, up into Colorado through the Rocky Mountains, and across the plains of Nebraska and Iowa. Finally, arriving in Chicago, also known as Chi-town, the Windy City, or the Third Coast.
I now live in an amazing neighborhood called Rogers Park in the far north section of the city. I walk along the coastline of Lake Michigan every morning and see the same people every day. Rogers Park feels like a small town. Considered a “walker’s paradise” according to Redfin, I have the independent Morse Fresh Market two blocks away, Le Piano jazz club even closer and RP Social Club, the neighborhood bar where one of my favorite bands plays every Monday evening. There is so much to do, you must pace yourself!
Recently, LoveandGrief.org installed another beautiful memoriam next to the tennis courts for a few weeks. This one was particularly stunning and whimsical.
A local told me that Rogers Park has more dogs per capita than any other neighborhood in Chicago and I believe it. I’ve found a group of like-minded dog owners at the far end of the park where we let our dogs romp off leash in the early morning. Sometimes, we bring coffee and donuts just for fun. It’s a 2-mile walk roundtrip for me, but it’s worth it because Cali basically sleeps for the rest of the day.
Everyone can’t wait until Memorial Day weekend when the Blue Jay Café will open its doors for the summer next to the sand and children’s playground at the beach.
And the Glenwood Farmers Market which starts April 19th. Unlike Los Angeles which has open markets all year long, we have to wait until Spring.
The other day, I was sitting outside in the front yard with Cali when I saw a postal truck stop and park. Our mailman Luke got out and crossed the street for only one reason: to pet my dog. Are you kidding me?
I would also contend that RP may have more artists than any other neighborhood in the Windy City. Writers, painters, musicians and everything in between seem to gather here in a supportive atmosphere crackling with creativity.
How ironic I had to leave Hollywood in order to be successful in the “biz”. Since my move here, I secured distribution for the documentary ABOVE AND BEYOND: The Story of Cpl. William T. Perkins, Jr. that I produced with my late partner Craig Ingraham. I’ve joined a band singing and playing electric bass and published my debut novel FREEDOM QUEST-A Love Story.
There is something to be said for living in a vibrant community of fellow artists who support each other and spread love.
We’re having a great big party on May 3, 5-7pm in Rogers Park at Jarvis Square Tavern to celebrate my book release and a second book release event at the Guitar Works Ltd. music store on May 17, 4-6 p.m. in Evanston. Both are easily accessible via the Red Line.
And I’ll be in San Diego April 25, 3-6 p.m. at Folk Arts Rare Records and L.A. (Studio City) May 2, 5-7 p.m. at The Last Bookstore. I sure would love to meet you!
Check out the Events page on my website www.deboramasterson.com and follow me on social media.
Peace always, Debora