This morning, as I drive by the sleek glass windows of international schools, boutique clothing stores, upscale movie theaters, bike lanes, and restaurants I can’t help but flashback to a time when these blocks were anything but sunny, open, brightly-colored, and inviting.

I thought about the people and families who lived near this stretch of Halsted Street just one generation ago. I wondered if they could have ever known now valuable their neighborhood would become...once they left.

I cross North Avenue into the theater district, passed the Royal George and Steppenwolf. My destination - a large city high school - sit quietly, with a handful of cars parked in its parking lot.

Four stone Greek columns frame the facade of the building’s front entrance. Colorful banners touting the school’s academic programs hand on the outside of the two-story brick structure.

Inside, I pass by a dormant metal detector and I am greeted by a friendly lady who directs me down the hallway towards the auditorium. Tall gray lockers are offset by flags of countries around the world that are hanging close to the ceiling.

There were only a few people in this section of the auditorium at this point, a few sound and video guys were working on the projection screen. A young man greets me, and introduces himself. I wound up having extended conversations with multiple people during my visit.

The journey continues in the Lincoln Park neighborhood on the north side, at the corner of Armitage Avenue and Orchard.

Intro Theme Music: Victory Lap by QSTN ft. Mecca:83
Background Music: www.bensound.com/

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