Logan Square Preservation’s silent auction raises funds for tree planting project

LOGAN SQUARE — A replica of the sign for the now-closed Johnny’s Grill could be yours.

The artwork by prolific Logan Square artist Derek Erdman is among dozens of items up for auction at Logan Square Preservation’s fundraiser and silent auction. The event helps the group raise money for neighborhood initiatives, including planting new trees along Logan Boulevard.

Logan Square Preservation typically holds its biennial walk of homes and gardens, its main fundraising event. This year, the volunteer group decided to put on a bigger show with the silent auction, the second time it has held an auction, said group president Andy Schneider. The walk of homes will return next year.

The group hopes to raise at least $15,000 at the auction.

The silent auction features more than 30 items, including neighborhood paintings and historical artifacts, gift cards and experiences from local businesses, concert tickets to local venues and more.

People can get their hands on a piece of the historic 1889-90 Auditorium building, a coffee tasting at Café Umbria, lunch and a private tour of City Hall with Ald. Carlos Ramirez-Rosa (35th), a stay at the bed and breakfast above Longman & Eagle and a $250 gift card to Lonesome Rose, Longman or Parson’s.

“We are grateful to all the local businesses and artists who donated,” Schneider said.

A large portion of the fundraising will go toward planting new trees on the boulevards between Logan Boulevard and Whipple Street, where the local farmers market once took place.

The group will plant about seven to 10 trees in the area, consistent with other neighborhood beautification efforts the group has organized and funded, Schneider said.

Bidding for the auction items is underway and will conclude at the group’s garden party Saturday in the historic side yard of the Jefferson Ice House, 3024 W. Logan Blvd.

Founded in 1980, Logan Square Preservation is a neighborhood organization dedicated to the preservation and beautification of Logan Square. The group reviews zoning and land use proposals, helps restore local landmarks, and conducts improvement projects, such as tree planting.

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