MORGAN PARK — Jonah Dobrutsky wasn't suggesting lowering the drinking age on Monday morning, though it certainly sounded that way.
"I would propose making alcohol legal," the 14-year-old Beverly resident said when asked what he'd do if he was the 19th Ward alderman.
Actually, what the Morgan Park Academy student was saying was he'd work to change the laws prohibiting the sale of alcohol in "dry" areas of Beverly. He believes this could help spur the development of restaurants, particularly along 95th Street.
Jonah was one of 19 student leaders who gathered on Monday for the annual Student Council Breakfast at Morgan Park Academy at 2153 W. 111th St.
Elementary schools from throughout the 19th Ward sent those involved in student government and others to the breakfast. DNAinfo pulled several attendees away from their bacon and eggs to ask them what they'd do if they were in charge of the ward that includes Beverly, Mount Greenwood and portions of Morgan Park.
Marty Jepsen, 13, of Beverly, attends Christ the King School. He said he would prioritize street repair, including fixing several large potholes near his home. Marty also said he'd focus on economic development.
"I live two blocks away from Borders, so maybe do something with that?" said Marty, referring to the long-vacant retail structure at 2210 W. 95th St. in Beverly.
Michael Swistowicz, 14, of Mount Greenwood, attends George F. Cassell Fine Arts School. He'd also make street repair a priority in his imagined term as alderman on the Southwest Side.
"On my street, someone crashed into a light pole and the curb is still all messed up," Michael said.
Erica Hollander, 14, attends St. Cajetan School in Morgan Park. She's considering a career in computer engineering or as a teacher.
"I would focus on young children's education," Erica said of her aldermanic platform. She believes area students would benefit greatly by introducing them to more career options at a young age.
Henry Zapata, 14, of Beverly, attends Sutherland Elementary School. He would concentrate on improvements in public schools.
"For the public schools, I would make renovations to make bigger gyms," said Henry, who also enjoys playing basketball.
Gianna Ferguson, 14, attends John H. Vanderpoel Elementary School in Beverly. She'd focus on environmental improvements both big and small. So litterbugs and industrial polluters should be on alert.
"If you are in a messy environment, it can really mess up your whole attitude," Gianna said.
Madelyn Bird, 13, of Beverly, attends St. John Fisher School. Her teachers chose to have her participate in the breakfast based on her volunteer work in the library as well as with students in the after-care program.
"I think I would want to teach more about current events in schools," Madelyn said.
The breakfast event was hosted by Ald. Matt O'Shea (19th), state Rep. Fran Hurley (D-35th) and state Sen. Bill Cunningham (D-18th). All three of the elected officials were educated in the 19th Ward.
The students also held a mock debate on three topics facing the statewide legislators, including sweet corn being named the official state vegetable, the licensed hunting of bobcats in Illinois and the funding scenario for public schools.
After the debates, the crowd of parents and principals voted based on the arguments presented by both sides. Then there was time for pictures before heading back to class.
"You are coming out of great schools and a great community," Cunningham said. "We always hope that the community will be a part of you."
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