By: John Matthew Simon

1^st Ward Alderman, Proco “Joe” Moreno is an exuberant Chicagoan. Whether he’s jogging in Wicker Park, or out enjoying the festivities of his musically and artistically oriented ward; he is always approachable. Engrossed with getting to know his constituents, their small businesses, and the community as a whole, his open door policy towards community organization and his drive to better his community at large make him an admirable cog in a sometimes cloudy machine. From his first day on the job in March of 2010 he has strived to impact his neighborhood and it’s residents from the roots up. And he certainly has. The Alderman was kind enough to take time out of his busy schedule to sit down with DO312 and discuss many wonderful developments in the 1^st Ward. As well as let us in on his love of punk rock, his desire to keep Wicker Park as the cultural hub of Chicago, and to inform us of who will be headlining this years 2^nd Annual Green Music Festival.

DO312 - We had a blast at Green Music Festival this past year and we are looking forward to 2012. Can you explain a little bit about the purpose of the festival and what you would like people to take from it?

Alderman Moreno - First and foremost, it’s for people to enjoy our neighborhood and spend money in our businesses. We have a lot of these (and I’d argue the best) festivals throughout the summer. Green Music Fest was a great way to emphasize a positive message to the attendees and showcase how we’re at the forefront of innovation.

DO312 - Are there any new programs or initiatives for this year’s festival?

Alderman Moreno - We’re still looking at ways to make it “more green” or more “effectively green.” These debates are continuing in the community and hopefully we’re bringing in some new expertise for 2012.

DO312 - After last years incredible line-up with big time indie-rock headliners that included the likes of Les Savy Fav, The Thermals, and Yo La Tengo… Who can we expect to play in 2012? Any clues?

Alderman Moreno – Dinosaur Jr. I hope… more to come.

DO312 - You have stated that Yo La Tengo is, “if not my favorite band… one of my top bands of all time.” What is your top Yo La Tengo song and why?

Alderman Moreno - This incredible band remains as relevant as always… They have the unique ability of being true artists, simplifying their art at times, and complicating it when necessary. It’s truly difficult to pick a “top song” from their expansive collection. I’ll say anything from the Elctr-o-Pura album. The reason being… beauty meets sonic assault.

DO312 - In doing our homework we have read that you are big fan of Minor Threat and that you have the album “Complete Discography” on your office wall, is this true and if so what is your favorite song?

Alderman Moreno – This is true. At 13, I was listening to Minor Threat and people thought we (my friends and I) were weird. Didn’t care… they spoke to us and still do. I was Straight Edge for a bit growing up so I’d pick that song… but the intro to “We’re just a Minor Threat” is hard to replace.

DO312 - What was your favorite show of 2011?

Alderman Moreno – It’s a tie between Wild Flag at Wicker Park Fest and Yo La Tengo at Green Music Fest.

DO312 - Which band/song has the most play(s) on your iTunes?

Alderman Moreno - “Icky Thump” by the White Stripes is tied with “Radio Daze” by the The Roots.

DO312 - In terms of music what are you most looking forward to in 2012?

Alderman Moreno – New releases from Jack White. As well as the ability to still be able walk to Empty Bottle, Double Door, and Subterranean to see some great shows.

DO312 - How about in regards to the 1^st Ward, any new programs or initiatives that you are excited for your constituency to be involved in/with?

Alderman Moreno - I think Green Music Fest had a terrific first year on Damen Avenue and will have an even better 2012. Also, anyone that knows a young girl who is (or isn’t) interested in Punk Music— they should check out Girls Rock Chicago! My daughter did their camp last summer and it was phenomenal and the camp is in the 1st Ward (Josephinum High School).

White Stripes – Icky Thump