​

Draft Minutes of the Pullman Civic Organization

June 17, 2026

 

President Karin Moreno called the meeting to order at 7:14 pm.

​

We welcomed visitor Rochelle Smith and remembered Kathy Dougherty, who recently passed.

​

Motion to approve the minutes of the May meeting, having been posted in advanced. m/s/p (John Cwenkala/Tom McMahon)

Treasurer (Mike McMahon): Opening balance, $39,590.25, closing $38,595.91. Mike presented the annual fiscal report for June 1, 2025 – May 31, 2026, to match our membership year. Mike also presented a draft budget proposal, to be discussed at the next Executive and Membership meetings for approval.

 

Committee and Organizational reports:

• Community Improvement: the QR code to easily pass on infrastructure issues to the committee and then the City is in the Flyer.

• Hospitality (Beverly Ash-Larson): Thanks to the Garden Club for tonight’s refreshments and to Jimmy Badali and Marcia Adduci for July’s.

• House Tour (Cindy McMahon): Four houses are confirmed but more needed. All welcome to the meetings on the Wednesdays following the PCO at 6 pm at 614 E. 113th.

• Greenstone Church (Cindy McMahon): The GoFundMe contributions continue to pay the gas bill, with $8,000 remaining for the upcoming heating season.

• Membership (Arlene Echols): We have 130 members to date.

• Safety (Tom McMahon): National Night Out is Aug. 4 in Palmer Park.

• Community Outing (Tom McMahon): There is a possible trip Windy City Thunderbolts’ game, a minor league team, in Crestwood in late summer.

• Welcome (Linda Feutz): No new residents have been reported.

• Chorus and Morris: The Chorus held a sing-along in June and will resume practice in September.

• Bylaws (Brent LaRowe): Brent presented revised suggestions for bylaws changes, based on the May discussion, namely, for II.3 to retain Historic Pullman Foundation’s representative  as a non-voting board member, but require that representative be a resident and PCO member.

• Bielenberg (Mike Shymanski): The group has created a special video to celebrate America’s 250 years. The video features the efforts of the Pullman community.

• HPGC (Brent LaRowe): The upcoming garden walk is June 27, featuring plein air artists, Project Windows artists, tours, plant sale, and fabulous gardens.

• FPNHP (Cindy McMahon): Railroad Days are July 25 and 26, featuring electrification of the ICRR. Please volunteer, come, and help promote the event. Tickets are $15.

 

Old business:

• We are still in need of a secretary and Block Captains for 113th and Langley.

• John Cwenkala will run Split-the-Pot in July.

• Onyx 360’s next hearing is July 15.

• For the Cultural Trail, they are discussing signage.

• Pullman 250 (Lorraine Brochu): The reading of the Declaration of Independence will be July 8 at 5 pm at the Visitor Center. Motion: to approve purchase of light refreshments for the event. m/s/p (Beverly Ash-Larson/John Cwenkala). Kailey Woolard volunteered to sing at the event. The Bushwallers offered to find a student to read at the event.

 

Announcements: the Alderman’s upcoming Juneteenth event, Police District Council meeting on June 22, and CPD’s State of the District address on June 26.

 

Split the Pot: Gordon Hirsig was this month’s winner of $28.

 

Motion to adjourn at 8:14 pm. m/s/p (Denzel Johnson/all)

​

Submitted,

Lorraine Brochu, Vice President and occasional scribe

​

​

(Note: Due to an area-wide power outage, the June Executive meeting was canceled.)

​

​

Draft Minutes of the Pullman Civic Organization

May 20, 2026

 

President Karin Moreno convened the meeting at 7:09 pm, welcomed new member Sunny Stevine(?) on Champlain, and expressed thanks to the Membership committee for the hot dog event and to the HPF for underwriting the food costs.

Announcement (Soren Spicknall): Pullman Arts will host two free events: Sew Clean, May 23, and an exhibit opening June 5, Pullman Porters and Maids: Invisible Labor, Visible Legacies.

Motion to approve minutes of the June meeting, having been posted online with printed copies available. m/s/p (Brent LaRowe/Megan Baldeshwiler)

Treasurer (Mike McMahon): Opening balance as of April 1, $39,208.70, closing $39,590.25

Committee reports:

• Community Improvement (Andy Morgen): The 111th streetscape is expected to continue to the end of the year. The 2-way sign at 112th and St. Lawrence has been installed. As for the 113th road improvement request, the alderman’s office says it is in the City’s hands.

• Education (Karin Moreno): CPS budgets have a $7M shortage; Poe School is losing 5 positions.

• Hospitality (Beverly Ash-Larson): Membership provided today’s goodies, with Garden Club providing June’s.

• House Tour (Pat Brannon): Houses and volunteers still needed.

• Membership (Arlene Echols): The 2025-6 year ended with a count of 285 members.

• Safety (Tom McMcmahon): A suspect is in custody for the number of garage and residential break-ins. Debbie Newman noted the CAPS flyers from State’s Attorney on avoiding scams. Lorraine Brochu noted the recent attempted theft of large equipment at Speedy Gonzalez’s facility on 114th Pl.

• Chorus and Morris (Susan James): All invite to Chorus’ Sing-Along on June 13, 3 pm.

• Nominating: Motion to approve 2026-27 slate. m/s/p (Andrew Bullen/Lynne Collins)

President, Karin Moreno (2nd term)              Vice President, Lorraine Brochu (2nd)

Secretary, Mike Manika                                       Treasurer, Mike McMahon (2nd)

Zone Director 1, Cindy McMahon                     Zone Director 2, Pat Watson

Zone Director 3, Melinda Moore (2nd)           Zone Director 4, Mary Aaron

Nominating committee, Patrick Brannon, Susan James, Andrew Bullen

(NB: Zone Directors serve two-year terms; all others a one-year term)

• Bylaws (Brent LaRowe): Brent noted all proposed changes were posted on the website, mostly operational updates and grammatical corrections. The evening’s discussion concerned retention of the HPF’s position on the board. Motion: to limit discussion to 16 minutes, allowing for an additional vote to extend. m/s/p  with 2 nay votes (Rebecca Conant, Megan Baldeshwiler). Motion: to extend the discussion another 16 minutes m/s/p (John Cwenkala, Denzel Johnson)

 

Organization reports:

• Bielenberg (Mike Shymanski): Mike notes the video in the Coffee Shop talks a lot about the PCO’s role in saving the neighborhood and getting it historic park status.

• Garden Club: The Garden Walk is June 27, 10-4 pm with boutique and plant sale.

• FPNSP/HPF (Rebecca Conant): There will be a Pullman Alley tour Sunday, an NPS Lunch and Learn Thursday, and Railroad Days are in July. Volunteers are needed at the latter.

 

Old business:

• Two block captains are still needed for 113th and Langley blocks.

• The next meeting for the Cultural Trail discussions is Thursday at Pullman Tech.

• Pullman 250 (Lorraine Brochu): A reading of the Declaration of Independence will be July 8 at 5 pm.

• Animal Blessing (Andy Morgen): Scheduled for October 4.

 

Announcements:

• Rosemoor Walk and Drive event Saturday at 2 pm

• Calumet Water Reclamation tour May 30 at 3 pm

 

Split-the-Pot: Lynne Collins was this month’s lucky winner of $39.50.

 

Motion to adjourn at 8:23 pm. m/s/p (Andrew Bullen/all)

 

Submitted,

Lorraine Brochu, Vice President

​

Draft Minutes of the  Executive Board Pullman Civic Organization

May 13, 2026

 

Present: Karin Moreno, Lorraine Brochu, Susan James, Mike Mishler, Tom McMahon, Melinda Moore, Jimmy Badali, Mike McMahon, Harriette Burks-Watson, Eva Villagomez, Andreas Morgen, Arlene Echols, Kim Gadlin (guest)

 

Karin called the meeting to order at 7:14 pm.

 

Minutes of the April meeting were read and approved with the following corrections: Karin, Lorraine, and Mike are willing to serve a second term on the Nominating Committee. m/s/p (TM/MM)

 

Vice President (Lorraine): The 9th Ward Superintendent, Valerie Stiggers-Broome, may speak at the PCO general meeting this week. Andreas Morgen will speak at the June PCO general membership meeting on coexisting with the wildlife in the area.

 

Committee reports:

• Beman (Arlene): Owners of the shared disintegrating porch issue are on the way to settling the matter with each other. 

• Communications (Lorraine): The Minutes and Flyer pages of the PCO’s website are slowly beginning to be populated.

• Education (Karin): Pullman School is doing an event this weekend.  Poe School has meet their fundraising goal of $65,000.

• Membership (Arlene): The HPF has donated food for the May Hot Dog Roast.

• Safety (Tom): At least 10 burglaries may be attributable to a single local person, who has been charged, is currently in jail with bond hearing tomorrow.

• Welcome (Arlene): Welcome to new neighbor, Toni Rodgers at 112th/ Champlain.

• Community Improvement (Andreas): Many potholes on Cottage Grove have been filled.  The sinkhole in front of the police station has been reported. The work at 111th and Cottage Grove should be finished by the end of the summer. Mike reported the QR code he established for reporting community improvement issues has had little usage. Karin requested it remain for a while longer.

• Morris and Chorus (Karin and Susan): Morris and Sword performed its annual spring extravaganza on May 3. Pullman Choir invites all to a Community Sing on Sunday, June 14 at 3 pm at the Exhibit Hall.

• Bylaws Committee: Discussion on committee’s main proposed change, striking Article III, Section 2:  The President of the Historic Pullman Foundation or a designated representative shall serve as an ex-officio member of the Board of Directors.  Motion: that the board take a stand for or against removal of  Article III Section two (2) and Article V, Section 5, sub-Section a. of the bylaws at the June Board meeting. m/s/p (TM/MM). A full version of the suggested changes, mainly grammatical, spelling, clarity of language, and formatting changes can be found on the PCO Home website.

• Nominating: May 20 is the election with installation on June 17.

 

Organizations:

• Garden Club (Susan): The Club’s Garden, "Art in the Garden,” is June 27.

 

• FPNHP/HPF: Railroad Days are July 25 and 26. Help needed to promote and volunteer.

 

Neighbor Kim Gadlin introduced herself. As a recent doctoral graduate, she’d like to volunteer her skills in dance to work with people on its ties with Pullman history.

 

Split-the Pot: Harriette and John switched months. John will do May, Harriette June.

 

Old Busines:

• Pullman 250 (Lorraine): IDNR is unable co-sponsor, but offered use of the grounds for $25. Lorraine may reach out to HPF for use of the bandstand.

• Summer Outing (Tom): Do we have 30 people interested in attending a White Sox game?

• Wildwood Party: Inspired by the Pullman Wildwood Club, IDNR is hosting a festive event on August 29. Discussion: whether or not the PCO should participate with an informational table. Lorraine suggested a joint “Pullman” table.

• Pullman Cultural Trail (Mike): A baseline for a map was established. Mike showed the online draft trail he’s created.

 

Animal Blessing (Andreas):  Kragness Animal offered to do animal vaccinations at the event.  Lorraine requested reaching out to local Cats in Action to be represented at the Animal Blessing.

 

Announcement: Pullman State Historic Site is hiring 2 seasonal workers.

 

Motion to adjourn at 9:15 pm.

 

Submitted,

Arlene Echols, Membership committee

​

​

Minutes of the Pullman Civic Organization

April 15, 2026

 

President Moreno called the meeting to order at 7:11 pm at the Exhibit Hall.

 

New members Shiobhan and Thomas Herzog were recognized.

 

We honored the passing of Albert Antoniazzi, Renee Frigo, and Warren Simpson.

 

Terrius Harris, Midwest Senior Program Manager for National Parks Conservation Organization, gave an overview of the Pullman Cultural Trail meetings to date.

 

Motion to approve the minutes of March 18, as posted on the website. m/s/p Susan James/Lynn Smith

 

Treasurer (Mike McMahon): Opening balance 3/1 $40,131.62 Closing balance 3/31 $39,208.70. The report will be filed for audit. Motion: to adjust our budget to reflect Blue Island Printing’s $50/month increase to print the Flyer from $3,000 for the year to $3,450. m/s/p Andy Bullen/Lynne Collins.

 

Committees:

• Community Improvement: The QR code to report infrastructure issues is in the Flyer.

• Hospitality (Beverly Ash-Larson): This evening’s treats are from the Beman cmt. Next month’s will be from the Membership cmt.

• House Tour (Cindy McMahon): The next meeting is Wed. at 6:15 pm at 614 E. 113th St. Volunteers and houses are needed.

• Membership (Arlene Echols): 285 members to date. There was a thank-you party for Zone Directors, Block Captains, and Welcome cmt. members.

• Safety (Tom McMahon): The 5th Police District has a new commander, Gregory Jackson. There have been backyard and garage thefts, as well as illegal entry to 4 buildings. CPD has been asked to provide more patrols.

• Chorus and Morris: The Morris team’s annual May Day celebration is May 3 at 7:30 pm in Arcade Park. Both groups welcome new members.

• Nominating: Pat Brannon, Karin Moreno, and Mike Mishler are joined by Larry Lagadinos and Arlene Echols. Slate to date: President, Karin Moreno (2nd term); Vice President, Lorraine Brochu (2nd term); Treasurer, Mike McMahon (2nd term); Secretary, open; ZD 1 and 4, open; ZD 2, Patrick Watson; ZD 3, Melinda Moore; Nominating, open. Nominations from the floor: ZD 4 (1?), Mary Aaron; Nominating cmt, Pat Brannon, Susan James, Andrew Bullen.

• Bylaws (Karin Moreno): Members may submit suggestions for changes to Brent LaRowe by 4/30.

 

Organizations:

• Garden Club: All are welcome to join workdays on Thurs. at 6 pm in Arcade Park and Sat. at 9 am in Gateway Garden.

• FPNHP (HPF): Tickets remain for Sunday’s Beer tour. There is a Thurs. Zoom Lunch and Learn at 12:15 pm, May 16 at 10 am all are invited to meet new PNPS superintendent Josh Wilkes. Rail Road Days return July 25 and 26.

 

Old business

• We still need a secretary and two block captains.

• Split-the-Pot: Harriett Watson volunteered for the May meeting.

• Onyx 360: The next hearing is scheduled for July 15. Tarps will go on the church roof soon.

• Pullman 250 (Lorraine Brochu): A reading of the Declaration of Independence will be held July 8 at 5 pm. Volunteers are needed to plan. Please contact Lorraine if interested.

 

Announcements:

• UIC will present a master class findings and hold a community discussion May 12 at 6:30 pm at the exhibit Hall.

• Membership Kick-off with free hot dogs will be May 20 at 5:30 pm.

Split-the -Pot: The Bushwallers won $48 and donated it to the PCO.

 

Motion to adjourn at 8:10 pm m/s/p many hands

 

Submitted,

Lorraine Brochu, Vice President

​

​

Minutes of the Executive Board of the Pullman Civic Organization

April 8, 2026

 

Present: Karin Moreno, Mike McMahon, John Cwenkala, Beverly Ash-Larson, Harriette Burks-Watson, Melinda Moore, Eva Villagomez, Susan James, Jimmy Badali, Arlene Echols.

 

Meeting was called to order at 7:17 pm at 614 E. 113th St.

 

Motion to accept the March 11 meeting minutes m/s/p (MM/SJ).

 

Treasurer’s Report: Opening balance 3/1: $40,131.62 and closing balance 3/31: $39,208.70. Discussion: value in pursuing higher rate CD vs. time to do so.

 

Vice president’s Report: NPCA will come to speak next week. Andy Morgen has been given permission by his boss to speak but no date has been given yet.

 

Zone Directors' Reports

• Zone 2: Susan said there have been 4 garage break-ins in the past month, all in the daytime as far as she knows.  There has been property damage and theft.  One person’s house was entered.  Chicago Police Department has not done sufficient follow-up.

• Zone 3: Karin reported for Zone Director Mike Mishler that Block Captains are needed for 11300 Langley on both the east and west sides of the street.

 

Standing Reports

• Communications:  Beverly said the Pullman Flyer will arrivie Monday night, because editor Sandy Melnyczenko, is out of town.  Beverly asked Zone Directors to let Block Captains know.

• Hospitality Committee: Beman will provide refreshments for the upcoming April 15 meeting.

• Membership Committee There are now 285 members.The Block Captain/Zone Director/Welcome Committee pizza mixer is next Wednesday at 6:00 pm, directly before the PCO general meeting at the FoPNHP/HPF Exhibit Hall. The Hot Dog Roast Membership Kickoff is May 20 at 5:30 pm before the May 20 PCO general meeting, outside of the Exhibit Hall.

• Morris and Chorus: Sunday, May 3 at 7:30 am, the Morris and Sword Dancers will be performing their annual Spring Welcome performance at Arcade Park.

• Bylaws Committee: Mike McM says the Bylaws Committee met last Monday. Suggestions regarding the bylaws can be forwarded to PCO President Moreno.  

• Nominating Committee: Committee members are Pat Brannon, Mike Mishler, and Karin M.  Larry Lagadinos and Arlene E have agreed to be appointed by President Karin M. The current slate from the Nominating Committee is:  Lorraine Brochu, Karin M, and Mike Mishler, the latter two for a second term. Melinda Moore has agreed to serve as Zone Director for Zone 3 west for a second 2 year term. Eva V, Harriette B-W, and Beatrice Hardy are leaving their Zone Director posts due to their second terms ending. Patrick Watson is being nominated for Zone Director for Zone 2 west. The committee is still searching for candidates for PCO Secretary and Zone Directors for zones 1 west and 4 west.  Please contact Karin Moreno if you know of people willing to serve.

 

Organization Reports

• Historic Pullman Garden Club: Susan said the rescheduled Winter Lecture is this Sunday, April 12 at 2:00 at the FL Miller Building, 614 E. 113th Street.

• Friends of Pullman Historical National Park (HPF) Jimmy B said more volunteers are needed to permit the Exhibit Hall to be open on Tues. – Thurs., 11-3. It’s now open Fri. – Sun.

• National Park Service: Beverly and Jimmy said there’s a new superintendent, Joshua Wilkes.

 

Onyx360/Reformation Lutheran: Arlene said she attended a hearing this morning.  The city attorneys are pleased with the progress of Onyx360 regarding coming into compliance with the city’s requirements.  The buildings are now secured.  First floor windows have been boarded up.  A neighborhood resident has been hired to keep an eye on the property.  Tarp has been purchased and will be installed over the church roof soon.  Judge Leonard Murray has set the next hearing for July 15.  By this date, the Onyx attorney expects the property to be in compliance.

 

Split the Pot: John C will run the April Split-the-Pot and Harriette B-W will run the May Split-the-Pot.

 

US 2026: Karin M has changed the name to Pullman 250 to be consistent with other government references to the celebration, ie: America 250, Illinois America 250, Chicago 250. Lorraine sent word through Karin M that she’s awaiting permission from Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR) to use the outdoor space.  Anyone wishing to serve on the committee is welcome.

 

Pullman Cultural Trail: Mike McM said the next meeting is at Pullman Tech on Front Street, Thursday April 16 at 1:00 pm.

 

New Business: There is a porch problem regarding feuding neighbors and their collapsing porch at 11258/60 Champlain.  A letter was written to Karin M from a resident of the block asking for the PCO’s help. Arlene said that on behalf of the Beman Committee, yesterday, she called and wrote to Dijana Cuvalo, AIA at the Department of Planning and Development, Historic Preservation Division about this matter.  She is awaiting a response.

 

Pullman Passings : Jimmy B noted the deaths of 3 long time Pullmanites who grew up as next door neighbors: Albert Antoniazzi, Renee Frigo, Warren Simpson, all from Forrestville Ave.

 

Motion to adjourn at 8:10 pm (JC/MMc)

 

Submitted,

Arlene Echols, Beman Committee

​

Minutes of the Pullman Civic Organization

March 18, 2026

President Moreno called the meeting to order at 7:10 pm.

​

Motion to approve the minutes of Feb. 18 as posted online and available at sign-in m/s/p (Arlene Echols/Ed Kruger)

​

Treasurer (Mike McMahon): Opening balance Feb. 1 $39.379.38, closing balance $40,131.62. Report filed for audit.

​

Committee reports:

• Community Improvement (Karin Moreno/Andy Morgen): Ald. Beale’s office replied to our collective request to resurface streets, saying the request is under review. Potholes were reported and some filled. Andy will update Alderman’s office of those not done.

• Education (Bob Bushwaller): Pullman Elementary’s LLC is considering doing Saturday athletics but needs volunteer supervisors and trainers. If interested, contact the principal.

• Hospitality (Beverly Ash-Larson): Pullman Club Coffee Shop is providing the evening’s treats, and Beman Cmt. will host in April.

• House Tour (Cindy McMahon): Houses are needed and committee meetings begin on the 4th Wed. in April at 6 pm at 614 E. 113th St.

• Greenstone Church (Cindy McMahon): Both boilers have been repaired, thanks to the GoFund Me drive, with $8,000 left in the account.

• Membership (Arlene Echols): We have 283 members. The Block Captain/Zone Director pizza party for membership kickoff is April 15 at 6 pm.

• Safety (Tom McMahon): At recent CAPS meeting, recent crimes in Pullman (2 burglaries, illegal house entry, breaking/entry of garages) were discussed.

• Chorus and Morris: Practices are Tuesdays at 7 pm for Chorus, and Sundays at 7 pm for Morris. All are welcome.

• Nominating: 2 volunteers are still needed to select a slate.

• ​

Organization reports:

• Bielenberg (Mike Shymanski): Many international visitors are coming. The Coffee Shop provided free coffee on Election Day with proof of voting.

• Garden Club (Sue James): All are welcome to attend the free lecture on Nathan Barrett on March 22 and on container gardening on April 12 at 2 pm, and join in community tree planting on April 29th .

• Friends of the Pullman National Park (HPF): All are welcome to a Zoom talk on trains to national parks, March 19 and in-person, ticketed tour and talk on beer in a dry town, April 19 at 2 pm.​

 

Old business:

• We still need a secretary and two block captains (113/Langley East and West).

• John Cwenkala volunteered to run Split-the-Pot in April.

• Onyx 360 (Arlene Echols): Next hearing on the project is April 8, online and in-person.

• Pullman Cultural Trail (Mike McMahon): Many City, State, and other groups participated at a workshop organized by NPCA to discuss submitted reports and recommendations.

• US250 (Lorraine Brochu): The PCO will contribute to the festivities with a reading of the Declaration of Independence on July 8 at 5 pm. All are welcome to help plan the event.

• Motion: to raise PCO dues to $15 effective for the 2026-27 membership year. m/s/p (Mike Shymanski/Beverly Ash Larson) – 45 yea, 4 nay

 

New business:

• Motion: to send letter of support for Preservation Chicago to National Trust for Preservation. m/s/p (Mike Shymanski/John Cwenkala)

• Motion: to amend 2025-26 budget to include $120 for postage to mail Flyer to those taking out ads, per contract. m/s/p (John Cwenkala/Tom McMahon)

​

Announcements:

• Joshua Wilkes has been named the new supervisor of Pullman National Historical Park.

• There will be a Pet Food Pantry March 27.

• Community meeting will be March 24 at 6:30 at Pullman Presbyterian Church.

 

Norma Zarris won $39 from Split-the-Pot.

 

Motion to adjourn at 8:08 pm m/s/p (Megan Baldeshwiler/Rebecca Conant)

 

Submitted,

Lorraine Brochu

Vice President

 

Minutes of the Pullman Civic Organization

February 18, 2026

 

President Moreno called the meeting to order at 7:12 pm.

​

Motion to approve the minutes as posted online (NB: printed minutes were available at the sign-in desk prior to the meeting). m/s/p Brent LaRowe/Wyatt Ollestad

​

Treasurer (Mike McMahon): Opening balance $34,205.13, closing balance $39,379.39

​

Vice President (Lorraine Brochu): A representative from the National Parks Conservation Association will present at the April meeting.

​

Committee reports:

• Education (Karen Moreno): Poe School’s Kindergarten classes shared a project they did on Pullman.

• Hospitality (Beverly Ash-Larson): Pullman Book Club provided this evening’s snacks.

• House Tour (Jimmy Badali): the committee is looking for houses for the tour.

• Membership (Arlene Echols): 283 members to date.

• Community Improvement: A QR code is in the Flyer where community members can report infrastructure issues to the committee.

• Chorus and Morris: Both groups welcome new members; the choir meets Tuesdays at 7:30 pm at the Mishlers and Morris dancers meets Sundays at 7 pm at 614 E 113th.

• Nominating: two more volunteers needed to select this year’s slate.

• Bylaws: volunteers still welcome to serve on the committee.

• ​

Organization reports:

• Bielenberg (Mike Shymanski): the group is adding another house this year.

• Garden Club (Brent LaRowe): All are welcome to the free Feb. 22 lecture on container gardening at 2 pm at 614 E. 113th St.

• Friends of the Pullman National Historic Park (HPF)(Rebecca Conant): the group is hosting a lecture on the Pullman Brotherhood of Sleeping Car Porters in the Civic Rights era, Feb. 28 at 2 pm. Rebecca also announced that the NPS monthly virtual lecture is Dining a la Pullman, Feb. 29 at 12:15 pm, and that Railroad Days will be July 25 and 26.

 

Announcement: There will be a celebration of long-time Pullmanite DeeDee Fabris on Feb. 21 at 3 pm at the Coffee Shop.

​

Presentation: Dr. Ramona Burress and board members from Onxy 360 spoke on the proposed wellness and health project in the Beman-designed Elim Lutheran Church and later school. Community input is greatly appreciated, as well as a letter of support.

 

Old business:

• We still need a secretary, but welcome new Block Captains Pam Eiten (114 Champlain E), AJ Lavin (114 St. Lawrence W), and Karina Avila, 111 St Lawrence)

• The Pullman groups were unable to forge a partnership with Connecting Routes interactive theater group this year, but possibly in the future.

• Nancy Johnson agreed to run Split-the-Pot for March.

• Discussion: pros and cons of raising dues. Motion: to raise dues to $15 m/s/tabled to March (Mike Shymaski/Lynne Crivello and Beverly Ash-Larson)

 

New business:

• Pullman Park III (Tom McMahon): Tom announced that Veterans Roaster pulled out of CNI’s development on 111th St. Instead, they have letters of intent from Slim & Husky pizza, Tropical Smoothie Café, and Starbucks. Motion: to endorse the (prepared and read) letter of support for a community development grant for the project, addressed to the Planning Dept. m/s/p (Tom McMahon/Ed Kruger)

• Motion: to approve up to $130 for refreshments for the April Block Captain/Zone Director event m/s/p (Arlene Echols/Lynne Crivello)

• Discussion: Arlene suggested having someone from Animal Control (perhaps our own Andy Morgen?) to make a short presentation on our relationship with coyotes and other wild animals.

 

Split-the-Pot: Melinda Moore won $60.

 

Motion to adjourn at 8:30 pm (Lynne Collins/lots of folks)

 

Submitted,

Lorraine Brochu, Vice President

​

​

Minutes of the Pullman Civic Organization Executive Board

February 11, 2026

​

In attendance: Tom McMahon (ZD), John Cwenkala (ZD), Rogelio Cadena , Eva Villagomez (ZD), Arlene Echols, Beverly Ash-Larson, Susan James (ZD), James Badali (HPF), Harriet Burks Watson (ZD), Melinda Moore (ZD), Mike McMahon (Tres)

 

Treasurer Mike McMahon called the meeting to order at 7:09 pm.

 

Exec Board Reports

• Secretary (read by MM): Motion to accept the January minutes. m/s/p (JC, TM)

• Treasurer (MM): Opening, $34,205.13. Closing $39,379.39. 

• Zone Directors

• Zone 1, 3, 4 none

• Zone 2 (HBW) porch pirate incidents continue, Fedex delivering to vacant houses by mistake

 

Committee Reports

Standing

• Beman - agreements need to be signed by VP, P

• Communications (BAL/MM): Website renewal due in May, Flyer letter went to advertisers with responses to pcopres@gmail.com.  Flyer posted to website? Ad revenue coming in.  Visitor counter to website?

• Community Improvement (AM): QR code to Flyer soon.  Evann Johnson menu requests for ward office.  1.5 million available ward-wide for 2026.  Street resurfacing, alley resurfacing under review in South Pullman.  113th St considered collector street and under the funding of CDOT.  Parks supervisor contacted regarding Arcade Park bench replacement.  Lights out in Langley Park.  Lights still out on Cottage in front of NPS.  Garbage collectors not always putting cans back. 

• Hospitality (BAL): Book Club providing refreshments for Feb. meeting

• Membership (AE): 283 members, 49 new neighbors, paid via 55 PayPal, 174 by cash, 5 more paid.  Linda Feutz working hard to identify new neighbors.  Budget needed for Block Captain April pizza event.  MM says with ad revenue coming in, funds can be allocated pending analysis. Proposed budget amendments needed for March Exec meeting, for approval in General meeting. 

• Safety- No report

• Welcome- No report

 

Special/ Ad Hoc

• Audit- (MM) no report. Next Audit in June

• Bylaws- No report

​

Organization Reports

• Bielenberg- No report

• Garden Club (SJ): Next lecture 2/22 at 614 E. 112th at 2 pm on container gardening

• HPF(JB): Railroad days July 25-26.  100th anniversary of electrification

• House Tour- FRP deposited. 

• NPS - no report

 

Old Business

• Onyx 360 ( AE): Next hearing April 8th, securing building.  Judge compliance work continues. 

• Vacancies

Block captain zone 4 114th St Lawrence West AJ Lavine

Block captain zone 3 113th Langley east and west- Vacant, Mike Mishler filling in still

Block captain Zone 1 111th St Lawrence- Filled.  Carina Avilla 

Secretary

• PCO Dues increase  (MM): Notice going in Flyer in Feb. Vote in March.  Discussion. 

• Summer event  (TM ): Tom McMahon co chair with committee, interested members should talk to Tom or Karin.  Funding ideas needed, White Sox game suggested. 

• Flyer revenue-(MM) Invoices sent, checks coming in. 

• US 250- tie summer event into US250 possible?

• New State Superintendent- invite to meetings, introduction

• Bylaws- TBD Karin Chair

• Fiscal year- Tabled

 

New Business

• Nominating committee needs 2 more people

• February Split the Pot- John Cwenkala

​

Announcements

• Veterans Roasters not happening, CNI developing site as a pizza place, slushie store and Starbucks with grant from City of Chicago, letter needed for community support.

• Request by Beman- Onyx 360 project inspired Beman designed churches lecture. Presenters needed, to be organized by Beman Committee. 

​

Adjourned m/s/p (TM/JC)  8:08 pm. 

 

Submitted,

Arlene Echols, Membership and Beman committees

​

​

Minutes of the Pullman Civic Organization
January 21, 2026

President Karin Moreno called the meeting to order at 7:04 pm.

Business was suspended for the December meeting for the annual holiday party. Motion to accept the November minutes as posted online. m/s/p Andy Bullen/Ed Kruger

We welcomed new member Sarah Piper.

Presentation: HPF President Maria Hibbs summarized the Foundation’s strategic plan and priorities and announced their new name to reflect these, Friends of Historic Pullman National Park. Their new Executive Director, Peggy Parfenoff, was introduced.

Treasurer (Mike McMahon): Opening balance as of 12/1 $35,617.70, Closing $34,205.13

Committee reports:

• Beman (Rogelio Cadena and ): Recipients of this year’s Facade program grants are:

1. Luke Korzenko (11419 Forrestville)

2. Barbara Conant (11117 St. Lawrence)

3. John Cwenkala (11202 Langley)

4. John and Megan Lyndon (623 111th)

5. John Hayes (11355 Champlain)

6. Pat Brannon (11214 Champlain)

7. Mike and Pat Shymanski (529-31 112th)

• Community Improvement: We will soon have access to a QR code created by Mike McMahon to report infrastructure issues to the committee online. Tom Shepherd drafted, and Karin signed, a letter to the Alderman about the poor pavement conditions of 113th St.

• Education (Karin Moreno): Volunteers to serve on and chair the committee are needed.

• Hospitality (Beverly Ash-Larson): Thanks given to the HPF for the evening’s treats.

• House Tour (Cindy McMahon): Houses are needed.

• Safety (Tom McMahon): Discussion: A dark Nissan Murano with no plates seems to be connected to a number of porch pirate hits.

• Membership (Arlene Echols): 279 members to date.

• Audit (Mike McMahon): The committee consisting of Brent LaRowe, Megan Baldeshwiler, Larry Long, and Sue James found the books from June through November 2025 to be in order.

Organization reports:

• Morris and Chorus: The Morris team will be presenting a free workshop at the U of C Folk Festival, February 21. The Choir resumes practice Tuesday at 7:30 pm. Both groups welcome new members.

• Historic Pullman Garden Club (Sue James): The first Winter Lecture is Jan. 25 at 2 pm on invasive plants. All are welcome to the lecture and Membership dinner on Feb. 4.

• FPNHP (HPF) (Tom McMahon): December’s Candlelight Tour and model train event were successful.

Old Business:

• A volunteer to serve as secretary would be greatly appreciated.

• Onyx 360 (Arlene Echols): Ownership of Reformation Lutheran Church and school has been transferred to Onyx 360 for a medical clinic, with another hearing April 8.

New Business:

• Nominating committee: Two volunteers are needed to join members Pat Brannon, Mike Mishler, and Karin Moreno.

• Bylaws review: Others are welcome to join Karin Moreno, Tom McMahon, Mike McMahon, and Lorraine Brochu.

• PCO Dues: Mike McMahon reported that due to the rising cost of everything, the board recommends raising the annual dues, which were last changed in 2012) to $15. Motion: to publish in February Flyer that the raising of the dues will be voted on in March. m/s/p (Linda Bullen/John Cwenkala)

• Connecting Routes (Rebecca Conant/Lorraine Brochu): The PCO has been invited to cosponsor a theater/community story telling event with a professional troupe. Motion: To cosponsor a public event with Connecting Routes project this Spring. m/s/p (Lorraine Brochu/Andy Bullen)  (2 nays)

Announcements:

• Tom Shepherd and Brent LaRowe presented a certificate of thanks to Method on behalf of the PCO and Garden Club.

• There is a class action lawsuit against Pullman Innovations as the probable source of foul odors this year.

Split the Pot: Jim McDonough won $45.

Motion to adjourn at 8:19 pm m/s/p (Cindy McMahon/Rebecca Conant)

Submitted,
Lorraine Brochu, Vice President

​

​

Minutes Pullman Civic Organization Executive Board

January 14, 2026

 

Present: Beverly Ash-Larson, Lorraine Brochu, Jimmy Badali, Harriette Burk-Watson, John Cwenkala, Arlene Echols, Luke Korzenko, Susan James, Mike McMahon, Tom McMahon, Mike Mishler, Melinda Moore, Karin Moreno, Andy Morgen, Tom Shepherd, Eva Villagomez

 

President Karin Moreno called the meeting to order at 7:07 pm.

 

The minutes of Dec. 10 were read, amended, and accepted to read that a QR code was created for the Community Improvement committee, rather than for Beman. m/s/p (TM/MM)

 

Reports:

• Treasurer (MMc): Opening balance $35,627.70, closing $34,206.13. The report will be submitted for audit.

• Vice President (LCB): Presentations will be made in January by the HPF and in February by Onyx 360. The board was amenable to inviting a local group that deals with domestic violence.

• Zone Directors: Block Captain needed for ZD 4 for 114th/Champlain. The Tri-Sate Disposal dumpster at 113th and Langley is back, but appears to have valid permit.

• Beman (LK): The committee will present Façade program awardees (upon completion) at the upcoming PCO meeting. Mike noted we have received $4993.90 from the 2025 House Tour proceeds for the Façade program. The committee will follow up on a report of non-conforming window replacement at 11325 S. Langley.

• Communications (BAL): Beverly noted she has sufficient postage for sending hard copies of the Flyer to 5 past presidents and those with paid ads, but will send a letter explaining that only electronic copies will be sent in the future. Debbie Newman is sending bills to those taking out ads.

• Community Improvement (MMc/TS/AM): Mike is working to send out the QR code for people to report infrastructure needs to the committee. Tom drafted a letter asking the Alderman to address the bad pavement on 113th between St. Lawrence and Langley. After discussion, Karin agreed to sign and submit the letter to the Alderman. Andy will follow up with the Alderman about the streets and lights off on Cottage Grove. A sign was replaced on 112th and St. Lawrence.

• Education (KM): Donated winter items were dropped off at Pullman School. Poe School is sending their donations to Jamaica nonprofits and will have items for local charity.

• Hospitality (BAL): The HPF will provide refreshments for the January PCO meeting.

• Membership (AE): We have 279 members. The committee is planning the May kick-off and ZD/BC event.

• Safety (TMc): Porch piracy appears to be down. Issues of a resident at 113th and Champlain were discussed.

• Audit (MMc): The audit was completed in November by committee members Brent LaRowe, Larry Long, Susan James, and Megan Baldeshwiler.

• Morris and Chorus: Both groups welcome new members to their rehearsals, respectively Sunday and Tuesday. Chorus is looking for new keyboard.

• Movie (TMc): Open to suggestions.

• HPF (JB): There were two successful December events, model train car and Candlelight Tour.

 

Old business:

• Onyx 360 (AE): Arlene reported on the Onyx Commons Stabilization Walk-Through on Dec. 13 at the former Reformation Lutheran Church, 11310 S Forest and that the buildings are secured. Documentation of the historic church will be done as debris is removed.

 

• Block captains are needed for ZD 3 113th Langley E and W; ZD4 114th St. Lawrence W; 114th Champlain; 111th St. Lawrence.

• Split-the-Pot: Mike Mishler volunteered for January, and John Cwenkala for February.

• Fiscal year: conversation of proposed changes tabled.

• PCO dues: Motion: to recommend to the membership that dues be raised to $15 beginning 2026-27. m/s/p (JC/MMc) 8 yes, 1 no. Discussion followed on possible alternatives for raising funds.

• Flyer ad revenue: Karin will follow up with Debbie Newman about status of billing.

• Summer event: tabled

• US 250 (LCB): The PCO is sitting in on discussions with HPF, NPS, HPEO, IL Labor Historical Society for participation opportunities.

• Announcements: We mourn the passing of DeeDee Fabris and Edie DeAngelo this year.

• Pet Blessing (AM): checks from the event were sent to the not-for-profit recipients.

 

New business:

• Nominating: The committee needs to add 2 more volunteers to the elected members Mike Mishler, Karin Moreno, and Pat Brannon.

• By-laws review: Karin will chair. Tom McMahon, Mike McMahon, and Lorraine Brochu volunteered but others are welcome to join

 

Motion to adjourn at 8:45 pm. m/s/p (JC/TMc)

 

Submitted,

Lorraine Brochu, Vice President

​

Pullman Civic Organization

December 17, 2025

​

(Note: A single motion was made and accepted to suspend usual business for seasonal festivities.)

​

​

Minutes Pullman Civic Organization Executive Board

December 10, 2025

 

Present: Karin Moreno, Mike McMahon, John Cwenkala, Susan James, Melinda Moore, Tom McMahon, Rogelio Cadena, Harriette Burk-Watson, Jimmy Badali, and Arlene Echols

 

President Karin Moreno called the meeting to order at 7:06 pm.

 

Karin announced that Denzel Johnson has tentatively offered to be secretary, since Yvonne Smith has resigned.

 

Holiday party: Karin, Melinda, and Susan stepped up to organize the party in light of Lorraine Brochu’s illness.

 

Motion to accept the November minutes as presented. m/s/p (JC/TM)

 

Treasurer report (MM): read and submitted for audit.

 

Discussion: Recovery of Pullman Flyer ad revenue from this past, ways to improve/streamline the documentation and collecting of revenue, and solicitation of new ads.

 

Discussion: Dumpster at 113th and Langley and non-historic windows. Neighbors can report inappropriate facade work to the Beman Committee and/or to 311.  Also, Mike M mentioned a new form he has designed to alert the Community Improvement Committee about such work, with a QR code going into the Pullman Flyer.  Mike M looked up the permit for the dumpster at ChiStreetWork.chicago.gov, and it’s due to expire tomorrow.

 

Tom M reported that porch pirates were at 11325 St Lawrence this afternoon.  Resident got a photo of the Nissan Murano, which will be posted on the Pullman Safety FaceBook page.

 

Karin M reports that hats, gloves, scarves, and socks will be collected for Pullman School at the Exhibit Hall. Poe School will sponsor a drive to collect school supplies in January for Jamaican schools damaged by Hurricane Melissa, to be sent to Jamaica by the Jamaican Embassy in Chicago.

 

The Audit Committee will tentatively meet January 8, 2026.

 

Tom M reports that of the 3 finalists, Celadon was named by the State of Illinois to be the developer of the Hotel Florence.  Celadon developed the former West Pullman School into affordable senior apartments.  The Pullman proposal is an $82 million project.  The original hotel will be a boutique hotel with 25 units.  The annex will be affordable housing.  The Rear Erecting Shops are included in this project, and will house a music venue.  The HPF has previously had a Memorandum of Agreement with the State of Illinois to use the outside of the Rear Erecting Shops for the 2 train cars earmarked for Pullman.  Tom M encourages Pullman residents to become informed about the project.

 

Arlene E mentioned the Onyx Commons Stabilization Walk-Through on Dec. 13 at the former Reformation Lutheran Church, 11310 S Forest:  9:00-10:30 am.

 

Mike M enjoyed the US Bank presentation that Lorraine Brochu arranged a couple of months ago, and would like to see US Bank representatives return to talk more about its initiatives.

 

Karin M says that Tom Shepherd requests Method Soap and another Veterans Day supporter receive a public commendation. Arlene E notes the Method Soap leader made a point of approaching every veteran at the reception to thank them for serving.  Karin M says a team of volunteers from Method annually deep cleans Poe School every ML King Day and leaves behind cleaning products.  

 

Harriette B has a suggestion for the nights the Split-the-Pot total is higher than $100:  split the winning half of the Split-the-Pot into 2 or more parts to garner more excitement.  The PCO would still get its half of the pot, and the winners would get at least $25 each.

 

Tom M suggested simplifying the tasks of the post of PCO Secretary.  Discussion ensued.

 

Discussion:  PCO holiday party details, with many volunteering.

 

Motion to adjourn at 8:27 pm m/s/p (JC/TM)

 

Submitted,

Arlene Echols, Beman Committee

​​

​

Minutes of the Pullman Civic Organization  November 19, 2025

 

Vice President Lorraine Brochu called the meeting to order at 7:10 pm.

​

The minutes of the October meeting were read and approved. m/s/p Lynne Collins/Mike Shymanski

​

Presentation: US Bank representatives David Valesco and Jose Chavez discussed loan opportunities for first time buyers and current home owners, and free programs to improve credit and receive financial coaching.

​

Reports:

• Treasurer (Mike McMahon): Opening balance $35,887.04, Closing $36,323.83. This will be filed for audit.

• Beman (Arlene Echols): Dec. 31st is the deadline for Facade program. Information and application are available on the PCO website.

• Community Improvement (Andy Morgen): Andy has reported to the City about lights out on Cottage Grove, upside down benches in Arcade Park. Mike McMahon developed an online form for the community to report infrastructure issues to the committee for a comprehensive report to the City. Discussion: how neighbors can apply pressure on delinquent homeowners.

• Education (Karin Moreno): Poe School is seeking school supplies to send to Jamaica. Pullman is looking for volunteers for a “walking school bus” and tutors. Donations of winter gear can be dropped off at the PCO holiday party.

• Hospitality (Beverly Ash-Larson): The House Tour committee provided the evening’s treats.

• House Tour (Cindy McMahon): A full financial report will be delivered to the membership in January.

• Safety (Cindy McMahon): Discussion: dealing with a problem property.

• Audit (Mike McMahon): The committee plans to convene in December.

• Morris and Chorus: both groups are accepting new members. There was a request for the Morris team to organize caroling.

• Garden Club: All are welcome to the holiday party on Dec. 3 at 6:30 pm at 614 E 113th.

• HPF (Rebecca Conant): The Candlelight Tour is Dec. 14 and decorating of the Exhibit Hall is Nov. 22 at 10 am.

• NPS (Rebecca Conant): The Visitor Center is again open and there is a Dec. 13 holiday event planned.

 

Old Business:

• Onyx 360 (Arlene Echols): Ownership of Reformation Lutheran Church has been transferred to Onyx 360 for a medical clinic.

• Animal Blessing (Andy Morgen/Marnee Schereck): The event netted $2736 in profit, with a larger attendance than the previous year

• Trunk-or-Treat (Karin Moreno): Although light on attendance due to area competition, the event was a success.

• Veterans Day ( Tom Shepherd): Thanks to all who attended, donated, and participated. Costs for the event were $180.

• Greenstone Church (Cindy McMahon): Cindy followed up on the furnace.

 

New Business:

• Holiday party will be on Dec. 17 as a potluck. Beverly Ash-Larson, Sue James, Lorraine Brochu and Karin Moreno volunteered to coordinate.

• We are looking for volunteer to fill the secretary vacancy.

• Announcement: Andy Morgen’s collection of Iannelli works will be on display in Park Ridge.

• Split the Pot: Pat Brannon won $26 and donated it back to the PCO

​​

Motion to adjourn at 8:19 pm. Lynne Collins/many

 

Submitted,

Lorraine Brochu, Vice President

 

​