Steve's Story updated 6-20-20

STEVE’S STORY
Narrated by Steve’s sister Libbie (“Lil Sis”) with diverse “voices” of friends and family embedded.

A chance to celebrate your
76th birthday by sharing your story
as seen through my eyes, “ Lil Sis ”
and inviting the diverse voices of friends
“ Walking down Memory Lane
”
and family that share in your
life ’ s adventure.

Cast of Characters
The BELL OF THE BALL
Steve’s Wife Pamela Reed Shufro
The ROYAL FAMILY
Steve, Pam, Matthew, and Gwendolyn
Another view on extended family including members of:
Reed, Shufro, Steinsapir and West families.
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Holiday dinner
From left to right: Pam’s sister, Lavonne (L), and niece Mollee, Libbie,
Steve, Pam, Don, and on the right, Matt.
Floor row: Elyssa West, Debbie Shufro, Erica (Tavi) West
2nd row up: Pam Reed Shufro, (Father Reed), Ethel Shufro, Libbie Shufro
3rd row up: Matt Shufro, Joel Shufro, Carol Steinsapir, Steve Shufro, Judy Steinsapir
(Don West photographer)
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Family Roots
Birthplace: Hyde Park, Chicago:
Born in 1944, Steve grew up on the Southside of Chicago, in Hyde Park, a neighborhood that
had the feel of a small town located in the heart of the City. Hyde Park was the site of the Chicago
World Fair of 1893, the home of former President Barack Obama, and the campus of the
University of Chicago.
Our Parents:
Dad (Mick) and Mom (Ethel) grew up in the immigrant-rooted New York neighborhoods of Brooklyn
and Flushing, respectively. They meet as college students on the campus of the University of Chicago:
Dad, a journalism major, and Mom pursuing her Master’s in Social Work. They shared a vision and a
political commitment toward building a more just and equitable world.
Our Ancestors:
Both sides of our family came from generally the same area
of Kovno, now Kaunas, in the present day Lithuania. The area
vascilated from being under either Polish or Russian control, as
there was no political entity of Lithuania at the time.
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Family Roots
Brothers: Steve and Joel
Bros Steve and Joel playing in the yard at 4960 Drexel Street, where we first lived in
Hyde Park, Chicago.
Joel remembers the place and
those times vividly and explains,
“The apartment building had a
HUGE backyard with cherry
and mulberry trees, family
gardens in the back (Old Victory
Gardens from World War II.) The
apartment building was filled with
kids who played together incessantly.
Here we met our childhood
friends Dave Prosten and
Peggy Gibbons.”
Sibling Evolution:
Welcoming a baby girl to the family equation created a new family dynamic. Early on, I might have been considered
a novelty, but resentment grew as my bros realized that LiL Sis had the power to adversely impact their
“kool zone,” of age and gender!
Mom said that Joel and Steve were
often mistaken for twins because of
their red, curly hair. The story goes,
that one time when she was walking
them down the street in a stroller,
someone stopped to “coo”
and ask if they were twins! Before
mom could answer, Steve
adamantly blurted out: “NO,
we are NOT twins.
We’re FOUR months apart!
Our beloved beagle
“Buttons” was the
family glue.
Over time,
my bros and me
mellowed into
good friends.
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Growing Up
William H. Ray Elementary School:
When we moved from 4960 Drexel Ave to 1322 E. 56th Street in Hyde Park (between Kenwood and
Kimbark), our house was literally a block away from Ray School. All we had to do was to “roll” out of
bed in the morning to start our day. Our proximity to the school and its attached playgrounds, meant we
literally “lived “at Ray School where we hung out with friends, playing baseball, holding waterfights, and
running races.
Ray School’s After-School Program:
Ray School’s afterschool program was important to both my brothers, and their weeks were jam-packed
with many engaging activities, including, sports, clubs, and dodge ball.
Ray School Safety Patrol:
One of Steve’s claims to fame at Ray School was serving as Lieutenant of the Safety Patrol. Ten minutes
after the Ray School bell rang to announce the beginning of the school day, Steve would round up the
members of his “platoon,”to march them into school, belting out verses at the top of their lungs in
unison like: “I don’t know but I’ve been told; Streets of heaven are paved with gold!! Sound off, Sound
off, Sound Off 1, 2… 3, 4!“
Doug Tempkin
and Steve were
buddies on the
safety patrol
Ray Softball Team:
Steve played on the Ray softball team which once a week the whole neighborhood came out to watch
play. As a loyal fan, and as a tried and true tomboy, I was always there, hanging out ad jockeying in
everyway possible to be considered something “official” and team-related.
HOT SHIT!: Story told by Lil Sis:
I was in 7th heaven when I was asked to stay close behind the catcher to run and collect errant baseballs.
As slugger Everett Willhoit came to bat, everyone stepped back several steps in the outfield in
anticipation of his might. As he swung the bat, tearing out to first base, he threw his bat wildly, and
WHAM! It smacked me right across my face. I was knocked to the ground unconscious, with blood
streaming down my white sweatshirt.
Although really shaken, my brother Steve, sprung into action running down the alleyway to our house,
alerting our parents of the emergency, who in turn called for an ambulance. Luckily when examined at
the hospital, ….nothing was broken. As the doctor was concerned that I suffered a concussion, I was
kept overnight for observation.
Recuperating at home over the next few days, Steve brought the team over to pay me a visit. Tough
guy Everett Willhoit cringed at the sight of my still swollen and now ghastly yellow, black and blue face.
But no apologies were needed. I was proud of my ‘red badge of courage,’ and felt like “Hot Shit!”
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Growing Up
“DANCING THE CHICKEN” Story told by Joel Shufro
Ever Friday night, Ray School held a ‘mix and mingle’ social dance that was well attended.
Chicken
Dance!
Steve and Nicki Roberts used to practice “the chicken”, a popular dance of the times that they would
cooly “perform” at the Ray School Social Dance.
For those of you not in the know, Bro Joel recalls, “They (the dance couple) had some step in which
one of them laid down on the ground and rolled, while the other jumped over the one rolling. Joel
can’t remember on this occasion, which one jumped over and which one rolled under,” but he does
remember it was a catastrophe, “with one landing painfully on the other’s sensitive body parts.”
Ray School Band
Both Steve and Tito played trumpet in the Ray School band. It was a big deal, and because they were
really good, they were asked to perform a duet for their 8th grade graduation.
Joel recounts two stories re: Stevie related to the new annex
“PROTEST WITH A PURPOSE”
“When they built the new annex to the old Ray School, they moved the boys into the new, (but much
smaller) playground, than the girls. Steve helped to organize a protest in which the boys formed a
ring around the teachers and sang the song, “Ring around the Rosie.” When the bell rang, they boys
marched into the school chanting, “Bomb Ray School!” Dump Ray School Teachers! Steve ended up
in the principal’s office, and Mom had to go in to get him released.”
CAUGHT RED-HANDED!
In the new playground, balls often ended up accidentally on the roof of the Auditorium. Although it
was against the rules, kids would climb up on the roof to retrieve them. One would climb up on one
side of the auditorium and come down the other. One day, Doug and Steve climbed up during recess
to get a ball.
I believe Steve came down first. This involved hanging from a ledge and dropping down about 8 -10
feet. Steve dropped down first, only to be caught by a teacher. The teacher started cross-examining
Steve and asked him if he was alone in this rule breaking. Steve, trying to protect Doug, was insisting
that he was alone, ......when all of a sudden Doug dropped down the ledge!” Caught red-handed
(both) at the scene of the crime!
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Growing Up
RAY SCHOOL: Graduating Class
When they ran against each other for Class President,
Bonnie recalls that Steve was clearly disappointed
when she won, but graciously asked to meet to
congradulate her and express his support. The early
beginnings of a real renaissance man…!
One might have thought Steve and Bonnie were ‘an item’ (although never officially confirmed) in
grammar school because they each ‘independently’ recorded their respective nicknames in “The Ray
School Class Record,” Steve as “Romeo,” and Bonnie, as “Juliet.” Just saying....
RAY SCHOOL: Graduating Ceremony
Bonnie and Steve went their separate ways
when her family moved to Evanston and they
attended different high schools.
The Hilkevitch twins Bonnie and Victoria,
remained connected for life with the Ray
School/HydePark contingent.
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15

Growing Up
Hyde Park High School
Joel and Steve
both attended
Hyde Park High,
a college preparatory,
urban public
high school. Both
brothers were
elected presidents
of their junior and
sophmore classes
respectively.
“Lil Sis” Arrives at HydePark High, 1966
I arrived at Hyde Park High only four years after Steve’s graduation, …but it was a different era. In
these time Federal housing an local redlining policies had engineered “white fleight” from the south
side of Chicago, to the suburbs. Once a proud model of balanced integration, Hyde Park High was left
an embattled, and under-resourced ghetto school. Within a school population of 3,000 students, I was
one of the 5% minority whites.
There never was any question that I was staying put. In the context of the burgeoning Civil Rights and
Black Power Movements, my education was mainly “on strike.”
On the occasion of this photo,
I was part of citywide protest
of School superintendent
Ben Willis where we staged
a sit down and ‘when limp’ in
middle of a highly trafficked
Michigan Ave. Hauled off to
the police station, we chose to
each identify ourselves as
“Ben Willis” to jam up their
recording system.
Steve was active in the
City Council and elected Prom
King w/a lovely Queen.
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Growing Up
South Side School of Jewish Studies (SSSJS)
As children of progressive parents, Steve and Joel attended the Circle Pines summer camp each
year. The Camp’s mission was to promote peace, social justice, environmental stewardship, and
cooperation.
My parents were Leftists. Nonreligious, they chose to have their kids attend the South Side
School of Jewish Studies, a secular Sunday School with a mission to explore the historical roots
and cultural identity of the Jewish people. The school was founded by Gerry Revzin, a powerhouse
organizer and peace activist.
Burt Weltman, Gerry’s nephew and a good friend of both Steve’s and Joel describes it best:
“The Southside School was adamantly secular. No rabbis or prayers. Many of
those who taught at the school were individuals who were “blacklisted” from
their professions during the McCarthy era of the “Red Scare”. Some of us used
to refer to the school, as the South Side School of Marxist Studies because we
were given the impression that to be Jewish was to be socialist.”
Although we all three “kavetched” also about having to attend these sessions each Sunday, there
is no question of its positive influence in our lives. Steve, remained a secular Jew, and together
with his wife Pam, a non-practicing Catholic, they choose to bring their two kids up in the secular
tradition of the Unitarian Universalists.
SSJS Graduation Ceremony:
Carrying on this tradition, Steve, a secular Jew, together with his wife Pam, a non-practicing
Catholic, chose to bring their two kids in the secular tradition of the Unitarian Universalists.
I remember my niece Gwen, as a young girl, holding out her two arms and hands to me asking.
“Aunt LIbbie. I’m “half and half. Can you tell me which side of me is Jewish? And which side is
Catholic?”
(left) Team Doug and Steve“collaboratively” dig a ditch!
(above) Steve learning to navigate a canoe.
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Steve’s Favorite Spots
Aunt Mary’s Museum:
One notable destination in Hyde Park was the Museum of Science and Industry, or what the Shufro’s
called “Aunt Mary’s Museum,” She was the Museum’s head librarian and we, her nephews and nieces,
benefitted big time with special perks, like free passes to special exhibits.
THE Promontory Point: “The Point”
The Promontory Point on Lake Michigan was a classic Hyde Park hang out for in all seasons. It was
a uniquely popular place to congregate outside on the rocks when the weather permitted and hold
semi-outside events in the sheltered Promontory, pictured here behind the Point.
(Below right) Steve and friends horsing around after a visit at the museum improvising an “on the
street news report” in front of the building.
Below (L) Steve with friends at the historic Main Street’s Exhibition having their photo taken in a oldtime
Model T Ford: Pictured, Chris Horton, Tito Urian, Steve Shufro, Doug Tempkin ( Who is the one
the wheel?); and (R) the historic 1954 installation of the U-5O5 submarine.
Below, “The Point” many years later was the scene of a Ray/HP Alumni Reunion.
(l-r) Unidentified, Victoria Hilkevitch, Lynda Hoffman, unidentified,
Mary Whistler & Steve Shufro
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Steve’s Favorite Spots
57TH Street Art Fair
This Art Fair was originally founded as an opportunity for the HP community to meet its artists and
vice versa . Over the years it grew and expanded. As kids we hung out on the streets for the full 48
hours of the glory of unfettered adventure! (not so much, arts and culture!)
HP WATERING HOLE: Jimmy’s Woodlawn Tap
Admittedly “Lil Sis” never saw the inside of legendary “Jimmy’s” but I knew it was ‘the place’ where
Steve and Joel often disappeared to at night to meet friends.
In the words of House Resolution 91_HR0335, passed by the State of Illinois State of Illinois 91st General
Assembly: Jimmy Wilson and the Woodlawn Tap built a tradition of bringing together community
residents, workers, and students, faculty, including Nobel Prize winners, and staff from the University
of Chicago; crossing divides of race, class, and ethnicity and providing entertainment, humor, and joy
to the patrons and Hyde Park Residents.
U OF C Folk Music Festival
Folk dance and music are shared interests of both Joel and Steve, When Joel attended the University
of Chicago he introduced us to the U. of C. Folk Music Festival and the Folk Dances at Ida Noyes Hall.
Steve would join us when he was home from Reed.
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Steve’s Favorite Spots
College Days
Folk Dance at IDA NOYES HALL:
While Steve was an intermittent folkdancer, Joel and I were the regular folk dance enthusiasts. Steve
folkdanced intemittently whenever he was home from college.
REED COLLEGE: Portland, Oregon
Steve chose to attend Reed College a small, intellectually intense and challenging environment.
Reed was located in Portland, Oregon, across the country from Chicago, (was Reed’s distance part of
Steve’s attraction?) As Steve could afford to visit the family in Chicago only once a year, we experienced
Steve’s college experience “vicariously” through his plentiful letters, and storytelling.
One time he brought home a friend from Reed College, Larry Kuhen, who wrote the poem, “A Tree
Indeed!” (see below) that Steve thought was amazing!. (Have to believe a little weed was involved...)
Steve remains a passionate
folk music fan. (He loves all
music with a beat!) Steve,
Joel, Don and me attend the
annual Joe Val Blue Grass
Festival together in Boston
every January.
A Tree Indeed.
A tree indeed, indeed a tree. A
tree indeed, indeed a tree!
Indeed a tree, a tree indeed
Indeed a tree, a tree indeed!
(These verses would go on ad nauseum,
with different points of emphasis.)
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College Days
Spasticats. . . Friends for Life!
Graduation (s)
While 1960s were one of the most tumultuous and divisive decades in world history, marked by the
civil rights movement, the Vietnam War and antiwar protests, While bro Joel was an active protester
of the Viet Nam War on the University of Chicago Campus, Steve managed to stau focus and stay his
course, pursuing a degree for career in urban planning and policy.
CORE VETERANS
A unique club that Joel and Steve helped found with their good buddies. To this day Steve still cringes
when anyone publically mentions the club’s name, but I think its an authentic reflection of the “politically
incorrect’ mentality of adolescence in those times!
Steve earned his
BA at Reed College,
and Masters in
Urban Planning at the
University of
Pennsylvannia.
The president of the Spasticats
was the one who committed
the most clumsy or embarrassing
act of each month i.e. inadvertently
walking into a street
light pole while walking down
the street, or, being ‘cool’
and bringing a girl a drink at a
party, but tripping on the rug,
spilling the drink in her lap!
Steve continued to “keep his eye on the prize,” by joining VISTA,
a domestic peace corps where he lived and worked in Bedford
Stuyvesant (Bed-Stuy) one of New York City’s poorest neighborhoods
in the mid-1960s.
The experience was powerful. Steve witnessed first-hand the detrimental effects of housing discrimination,
segregation, and denial of basic city services on the community . He worked in collaboration
with local organizations, to increase access to jobs and health services , honing his skills in grassroots
planning and organizing.
I had the chance to visit Steve in his Bed-Stuy apartment where he had proudly cooked us a meatloaf
dinner (with lotsa ketchup!) As he carried this main dinner plate to the table, the plate slipped out of
his hands, and the meatloaf fell to the floor. IT BOUNCED! The meatloaf literally bounced! We both
laughed convulsively as he explained in all seriousness, that he must have put in too many eggs!
Old-time
Spasticats reunite
at Ray School
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Spasticats. . .
Steve Shufro~ Tito Urian ~Joel Shufro
David Prosten
Doug Tempkkin
John Lewis In
Memoriam
Burt Weltman
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Spasticats. . .
We have experienced life, going through good times and bad
times. Always keeping in mind that life is a cycle and we have
almost gone full circle.
In the spirit of “Friends for Life,” I insert
here a copy of a letter that Tito sent to his
SPASTICAT friends upon the sad occasion of
the death of his wife Felicita. in 2014 . Also,
here is a photo of the Viet Nam hat that Tito
laid on her grave.
I have seen life, I have seen death, I have given life, and I
have also given death. Going to Viet Nam made me love life
even more than one will ever know. My mother once told me,
"Laugh and the word laughs with you, cry and you cry alone."
I have done enough crying, I want to laugh and enjoy the
remaining years left in my life time.
I have been blessed with a wonderful family, which includes my
wife, daughter, son in law and granddaughter, my sister,
brother-in-law and the many cousins, nieces and nephews that
I have.
I mention Viet Nam here, it seemed cast a unspoken shadow of class tension within Spasticats Most
of the Spasticats were from middle class families vehemently opposed the war. While they used every
option possible to resist and avoid the draft, Tito a young Philipino from a working class family was
drafted, he simply went.
Tito was embraced warmly upon his return, and he proudly assumed his rightful place with the Spasticats.
They listened to his war stories, learned from his experiences. and helped him to heal. I was
moved that human solidarity ultimately reigned supreme to their political view, and I found it moving.
I want to thank you all for bringing me into your life and
also remembering my family. May we enjoy life, and may you
all have peace, love, health and wealth.
Your Friend for Life
Tito
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Marriage & Family
Despite intense morning
anxiety about signs of impnding
rain, the sunshine emerged,
and Steve and Pam’s wedding
was a joyful occasion!
After their honeymoon trip to Montreal and Quebec, and, because Pam was a good sport, she conceded
to going camping in Vermont. They spent their first year of marriage in Trenton, New Jersey,
where Steve worked for Model Cities, and Pam took the train daily to NYC where she worked on her
Masters. When Steve was offered a job at UMass Boston campus, the couple made a move to Boston
where they settled down in a Brighton apartment.
Aunt Lib, Uncle Joel, with nephew Matt
Two years later Gwen joins the TEAM!
Aunt Mary, Mom, Dad, Grandson Matt
and Steve
In 19..., GLORY BE... Matt was born!
Pam and Steve with Gwen and Matt
Gwen growing up GRAND!
…and fortunately… he cleaned up real nice!
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Aunt Lib with nephew Matt and niece Gwen
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Marriage & Family
GWEN GETS MARRIED:
SPECIAL TIME with GRANDPA / UNCLE STEVE
Proud parents and beautiful bride.
GIGGLE TIME:
Grandpa Steve with Julia
CUDDLE TIME
Grandpa Steve with Jake
HORSING AROUND TIME
Niece Debbie and friend Ana
Happy couple, Gwen & Jon Bauer
CONNECTING TIME:
Uncle Steve with niece
Debbie (Joel Shufro and
Carol Steinsapir, are her
parents)
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And then there were FOUR!
Top row Gwen, Jon; First Row, Julia, Jake
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Life With Dad
(Gwen)
Love Of Reading & Travel
Both my parents shun TV and love to read – though my interest in nonfiction took many decades
to formalize, I too now read every night before bed and am interested in the history and politics
of a region.
Similarly, both my parents prioritized travel for their family. Like my dad, I enjoy discovering local
markets and unique aspects of each new city and/or place, and we both enjoy trying new foods.
Passion for Politics
Of course, we both have an interest in and passion for politics, and continue to discuss the
current state of affairs. My dad taught me how to become interested in the news – by choosing
a topic to read each day (such as health care policy) rather than trying to read and/or become
an expert in everythingThis was a helpful way to begin my foray into the news junkie that I have
become!
Love Of Nature And Music
My dad loves nature and he loves music – two things I enjoyed growing up and appreciate
more due to his interests.
I remember our Father/daughter hiking trips and family hiking trips with such fond memories
– from hiking the Appalachian trial, to climbing goat paths in the rocky mountains, the
hikes were memorable and a time for bonding.
His love of hiking and, subsequently, cross-country skiing allowed me to appreciate those
pensive, meditative times in nature. I hope to instill that same appreciation for hiking and
the outdoors to my own children.
My dad and I love the song “Lean on Me” It is a good description of the type of father my
dad is – always supportive, encouraging, and someone to lean on. I remember attending
music events from blue-grass festivals to gospel concert music. One time we went to attend
a Baptist church in Dorchester, Boston.
A Daughter’s Pride
I’m proud of how my dad is able to mediate and manage disparate personalities both at work
and at home. Ever the peace-maker, my dad is very good at listening –particularly to both sides
of an argument. This is something that I am not as good at. However, I admire my dad’s ability
to be the calm party in a discussion and continue to learn from his demeanor in such heated
debates!
A Great Sense of Humor!
My dad has a great sense of humor, and he often uses jokes to ease the tension in tough situations.
Even on a daily basis my dad likes to throw in one-liners. Common ones include: 1) “It’s
been good, and it’s been real, but it hasn’t been real good.” 2) “Good enough for government
work,” ironic considering his role in government!
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Steve’s Professional Life (contin’d)
Life With Dad
(Matt)
Work Summary:
Within the field of urban development, Steve’s professional focus has been on affordable housing
and public health, with a core mission to shape sound policy and planning, to deliver quality of service,
and to ensure equitable access for all.
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“My father is a great guy who has been a wonderful dad. He’s always been there for me
and has been someone I can count for support, unconditionally.”
Childhood Memories
I have many fond childhood memories of my Dad. Whether it was...
• Rough housing with the terrifyingly fun “Electric Operation” tickle.
• Schlepping me to soccer practice and games and cheering me on from the sidelines
• Helping me with my math and science homework.
• Being a sympathetic ear during tough times in adolescence.
• Or giving me sage advice, both solicited and... many times, unsolicited (which continues to
this very day). On a more serious note, I will never forget the time I saw my father moved to
tears when he saw how I was suffering in pain when battling my bacterial pneumonia.
Core Values
My dad also taught me many of the values I continue to cherish today:
• The importance of family
• Importance of mental preparation, which became a mantra in my family after I botched my
first violin recital at the age of six. Little did I know that performance would lead to years
and years of “mental preparation” lectures!
• In good conscience, I can’t not mention, the value my father often articulated regarding the
importance of eating roughage...And like any good progressive household, he taught my
sister and me about the importance of “taxation,” which he often levied during dinner time,
or when are eating out in our favorite restaurant.
I love my Dad and feel so privileged that I am his son. He’s such a great guy!
I. HIGHER EDUCATION:
1967-69: Master of City Planning, University of Pennsylvania
1962-66: Bachelor of Arts, Reed College, Portland, Oregon
Graduate Awards
Mellon City Planning Fellowship
Sears, Roebuck Fellowship in City Planning,
Louise D. Laskers Fellowship,
Program for James Scholars of Urbana,
Tau Sigma Delta Nomination (Honorary Fine Arts Fraternity)
II. WORK EXPERIENCE: (earlies to latest)
1962-66: Summers, Chicago IL
• Social Work Intern, Jewish Vocational Service
• Lifeguard, Chicago Park District
1966-67: Community Organizer Volunteers in Service to America, VISTA
Assigned to neighborhood office of New York City Housing and Redevelopment
Board to assist local community organizations’ address housing issues and
improve social services.
1968-69: Planner Philadelphia Housing Development Corporation
As a Planning Intern and Part -Time Employee I helped to plan and administer
city-wide program, to locate and acquire substandard building for use in
low-income housing rehabilitation.
1969-72: Program Manager, Manpower and Economic Development Department Model
Cities Program City, City of Trenton
Planned, implemented and evaluated comprehensive manpower program for
inner-city community. Prepared comprehensive annual master plan, specific
project, proposals and implementation contracts.
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Steve’s Professional Life
1972-74: Associate Director, Office of Community Service
Developed programs which increase access of urban residents and institutions
to the technical, educational, and corporate resources of the university and organized
strategic planning process which involved student, faculty, administrators and
community residents
1974-76: Director, Office of Grant Development and Special Programs
University of Massachusetts, Boston Campus
Developed programs to increase access of urban residents and institutions to the
technical, educational, and corporate resources of the university. Facilitated a
comprehensive planning process, which involved students, faculty, administrators
and community residents
1983-86: Assistant Commissioner for Health Regulation and Planning,
MA Department of Public Health (DPH)
Key role in the development of a State Health Plan for Policy in MA; Designed an
administrative approach to limiting operating cost impact with a commitment to ensure
quality, and access to the poor; Ranking of the State’s Health Care needs.
1986- :? Executive Director, Concord Hillside Medical Associates (CHMA)
Implemented a systemic approach of Total Quality Management (TQM) to address the
issues of access and to improve the quality of health care services.
1990-?: VP of Operations, Harvard Vanguard Medical Associates
Responsible for the development of group practice, moving it into a leadership position
within the Massachusetts healthcare marketplace.
III. HONORS AND AWARDS:
1962 B’Nai Brith, Youth of the Year Award
1966 Chicago Park District, Commendation for Saving a Life
1984 Commendations from the Commonwealth of Massachusetts
displayed keen insight and awareness of the problems unique to the Department and
contributed immeasurably to the expansion of service administered by said Department.
In his public service, Steven Shufro discharged his duties with honor, unusual ability
and unfailing courtesy to all with whom he came in contact.”
Thomas M. McGee, Speaker of the House Thomas M. McGee,
Robert J. Bohigian, State Representative:
“The entire membership of the House of Representatives extends its very best
wishes and expresses the hope for future good fortune and continued
success in all endeavors.
1984 Commissioner, Bailus Walker, Department of Public Health, MA, 1984
“Steve, you can be proud of your outstanding contribution to the development of
sound health services, policy and planning in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts.
As a capable administrator, a crack salesmen of ideas, and a talented innovator, you
have helped improve the health care system for all people regardless of their social
or economic status.”
199? Dr. Kenneth H. Paulus, Harvard Vanguard President and Chief Executive Officer
“It gives me pleasure to thank you for everything you have done on behalf of Harvard
Vanguard I could not think of anyone that I would rather work with as we take on the
challenges of improving the performance of this group. Also, I cannot say enough
about how I enjoy working with you as a professional and as a human being. You truly
exhibit all of the qualities that I value as a leader.”
19?? Dr. Simon Weitzman, Brigham Hospital, Harvard Vanguard Medical Assoc.
“You, my best ally in the organization is leaving! Where do I go now? How will I
reconcile the sadness of losing your knowledge, wisdom, friendship and support with
the feeling that you are doing what is best for Steve, his family and his future. I know you
will succeed Steve because you have the qualities and a special kind of foresight that
can see the future. Please, share it from time to time, I’d like to avoid mistakes
and potholes if I can help it!”
Governor Michael Dukakis:
“To Steven M. Shufro for his 12 years of dedicated service to the Massachusetts
Department of Public Health which is deserving of recognition by all the
Citizens of Massachusetts.”
President of the Senate William M. Bulger, and Senator Chester G. Atkins:
“During his long tenure in the Department of Public Health, (as the Assistant
Commissioner of the Massachusetts Department of Public Health) Steven Shufro
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41

Special Recognitions &
Colleguial Comments
Commissioner, Bailus Walker, Department of Public Health, MA, 1984
“Steve, you can be proud of your outstanding contribution to the development
of sound health services, policy and planning in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts.
As a capable administrator, a crack salesmen of ideas, and a talented
innovator, you have helped improve the healthcare system for all people regardless
of their social or economic status.”
Dr. Kenneth H. Paulus
Harvard Vanguard President and Chief Executive Officer
“It gives me pleasure to write this letter thanking you for everything you have
done on behalf of Harvard Vanguard. I could not think of anyone that I would
rather work with as we take on the challenges of improving the performance
of this group. Also, I cannot say enough about how I enjoy working with you as
a professional and as a human being. You truly exhibit all of the qualities that I
value as a leader.”
William M. Bulger, President of the Senate,
and Senator Chester G. Atkins, 1984
“During his long tenure in the Department of Public Health, (as the Assistant
Commissioner of the Massachusetts Department of Public Health) Steven Shufro
displayed keen insight and awareness of the problems unique to the Department
and contributed immeasurably to the expansion of service administered
by said Department. In his public service, Steven Shufro discharged his duties
with honor, unusual ability and unfailing courtesy to all with whom he came in
contact.”
Michael S. Dukakis, Governor, 1984
“To Steven M. Shufro for his 12 years of dedicated service to the Massachusetts
Department of Public Health which is deserving of recognition by all the Citizens
of Massachusetts.”
Dr. Simon Weitzman, Brigham Hospital,
Harvard Vanguard Medical Assoc. 2000
“You, my best ally in the organization is leaving! Where do I go now? How will I
reconcile the sadness of losing your knowledge, wisdom, friendship and support
with the feeling that you are doing what is best for Steve, his family and his future.
I know you will succeed Steve because you have the qualities and a special
kind of foresight that can see the future. Please, share it from time to time, I’d like
to avoid mistakes and potholes if I can help it!”
Thomas M. McGee, Speaker of the House, Thomas M. McGee,
Robert J. Bohigian, State Representative, 1984
“The entire membership of the House of Representative extends its very best
wishes to Steven Shufro and expresses the hope for future good fortune and
continued success in all his endeavors.”
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43

Stories, Songs & Poems
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“Adventures With Steve”
by Bro Joel
One year when Steve was returning to Reed College we decided to drive across country. We
got a drive away car from Chicago which had to be delivered in Seattle. Steve insisted that we start
in the evening and drive 24 consecutive hours so we would get through the “boring” states and get
to mountains in time to sleep. We drove through the night – stopping somewhere at 5 AM to get
breakfast. I remember to this day the breakfast. Best breakfast, I ever had. For fifty cents, we each
got a couple of scrambled eggs, potatoes, pancakes, toast and coffee. Fortified, we continued our
travels and pulled into a campsite somewhere in South Dakota as the sunset at around 8 PM.
Steve had made the trip before with his friend Kermit. He wanted to show me the Bad Lands – and
especially Glacier National Park. I still remember going through Idaho along the Snake River. There
were foot bridges into what was wilderness. I had fantasies, then and to this day, of going back and
crossing the River and hiking into the wilderness. We finally made it to Seattle – travelling along a
highway through a winding valley with steep mountains on either side following some river. I think
my love of being out West came from this trip.
At that time I still had red hair and a beard and was planning to hitchhike back. Steve convinced me
that nobody would pick me up looking like a hippy. He insisted I get a shave and a haircut. Understanding
that this was a big concession on my part, Steve told me he would find the “right” barber.
We must have stopped at 10 to fifteen barber shops along the way. He would dismiss one after
another. Finally in Butte Montana we walked into a barber shop – which, after spotting several left
wing pamphlets on he magazine table, Steve gave his seal of approval. I got into the chair and the
barber let us know that he was a former legislator who had engaged in many battles with Anaconda
Copper. The three of us got into a long discussion. At some point, as the barber regaled us in
stories about the perfidy of the copper company, I realized he had been continually cutting my hair.
When I glanced in the mirror, not only was my beard gone, but I was as near to looking like I was
prematurely bald. Steve, seeing how upset I was, walked me straight into a bar and got me drunk.
Whether it was my shaven appearance or what, my brother was correct. On my return trip, I had no
trouble getting rides and made it back to Madison, where I was in school in record time.
We took a second trip around Lake Michigan in which we planned to replicate by car what our
parents had done by bicycle. Like the first trip, we decided to drive through the first night to get
to Northern Michigan. I’ll never forget being awoken from a deep sleep being thrown to the floor
in the back seat as Steve hit the brakes to avoid hitting a deer that had frozen in the middle of the
highway as we travelled at what was probably 70 – 80 miles per hour. The next day we decided to
go for a walk along the lake. We got out of the car and before our feet hit the ground, we were
attacked by mosquitoes with such ferocity that after several futile attempts we gave up. We tried
driving to other parts of the State – but to no avail and returned home about 5 days early. Both of
these trips were bonding experiences about which we have talked countless times.
“Thoughts On Steve”
by Burt Weltman
#1. Steve is primarily responsible for one of the very best things that ever happened to me,
and for which I am enormously and eternally thankful to him.
My family did not move to Hyde Park until I was a junior in high school. Before that, we lived in
Chatham and I went to Hirsch High School. Although I knew Steve and Joel from having gone
as kids to the South Side School of Jewish Studies, a secular Jewish Sunday School, we were more
merely acquaintances than friends. I did not really know anyone when I got to Hyde Park High
School. And I felt lost and like an outsider.
Nonetheless, somehow made a connection with Steve (Joel was getting ready to go off to Shimer
College), and he immediately welcomed me into his circle of friends and even brought me into the
Spasticats. This was one of the biggest turning points for the better in my life. I cannot overemphasize
the effect it had on me then and on my life since. And it was such a gratuitously warm an eroneous
act on Steve’s part. But that is Steve.
#2. Steve was a leader, even when he was a follower.
A group of us used to walk together in the morning to Hyde Park High School. It was usually Steve,
Tito, Bob Schwartz, and me. We would meet up at the Shufro’s house. Steve’s mother was gracious
enough to let us hang out in her living room while Steve was getting ready. And he was always late.
And she was almost always chastising him for being so slow. And we were invariably giving him a
hard time. Come to think of it, Mrs. Shufro may have been so gracious to us in part because she
hoped we would hurry him up.
In any case, Steve would eventually be ready and we would set out on the mile or so walk to school.
On the way, we would usually play “Doing the dozens,”which we called “Signifying,” and was a
game of verbal insults. We would insult each other and each other’s mothers, as in “Yo momma is
... ‘Tito and Schwartz were the champions at this. They would go back and forth, endlessly trading
insults If Steve or I had the audacity to try one ourselves, we would invariably be slammed down
mercilessly.
So, Steve and I generally held our tongues and followed the repartee, quietly rooting for the underdog
Tito, because Schwartz almost always got the better of him. Occasionally the verbal combat
between them threatened to devolve into physical combat, and Steve would step in to calm the
situation. Steve had that kind of effect on a tense situation. And, of course, that didn’t stop Tito
from doggedly coming back the next day for another try at Schwartz, and occasionally Tito got the
better of him, or maybe Schwartz took pity and just let Tito win.
45

Stories, Songs & Poems
“Thanks For The Memories!”
by Doug Tempkin
odd jobs around the camp, playing volleyball after dinner with other staff members, relating to
adult staff members as peers. So thanks - I consider that summer a watershed time for me.
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Steve - This is a collection of memories as they occurred to me when I thought about our long connection.
They’re random to say the least but for one reason another, they’ve stuck with me - some because
they were meaningful, some for no reason at all I can think of - but of course they all involve you -
and they’re all fond memories - except one, as you’ll see. I hope reading them will trigger some fond
memories for you too...
• Sitting in the back two seats of Mrs. McCabe’s graduating class (don’t know why she let us sit
next to each other), cracking up that everyone looked funny to us that day. Were we stoned?
Maybe sniffing glue? Probably just that we were thirteen years old and bored.
• Ping pong with you in Bonnie and Vicky’s building’s “rec” room on Kenwood. This is
a bitter memory though - I never beat you. Never. But I have you to thank for those early
games as I just took up ping pong again after brief respite of 60+ years....
• A philosophical moment: Why, you said, if baseball teams change players over the years, as
well as owners, managers, and even cities, are they considered the same team? In what sense
are the White Sox of 1938 the same team as the White Sox of 1958? I’ve been reminded of
and pondered your question at least once a year since you said it and have never been able
to come up with a satisfying explanation. It touches on psychology (the importance of naming
something, identification), Greek philosophy (you can’t step in the same stream twice), and a
whole lot of other mind- warping imponderables. Thanks.
• On the IC platform by the Art Institute when your watch flew off and landed on the tracks and
you jumped down to the tracks and retrieved it. And survived.
• Circle Pines Camp: It was thanks to you leading the way as you often did, that I grew up
a lot that summer, becoming more independent and responsible. This must have been the
summer of 1957 or 1958, after 7th or 8th grade: At your invitation I went with you to Circle
Pines for the summer, where we were “junior counselors”, working with groups of kids, doing
• After 8th grade graduation my family moved to the North Side but our bond was so strong for
the next couple years I stayed at your house - well, your family’s house - just about every weekend
for the next couple years.
• 1958: Dancing (not with each other) to 45s on Fridays in the basement of the church on the
corner of 6th St and Woodlawn (that would be Elvis’s Don’t Be Cruel/Hound Dog; Bill Haley’s
Rock Around the Clock; The Del-Vikings, Come Go with Me; The Everly Bros.; The Platters,
Johnny Mathis, etc.)
• Now it’s 1963, starting our sophomore year in college - this is one memory I’m sure you’ll
remember. Probably two words will bring it back: “drive-away car.” No? What about “ end of
summer drive away car back to Reed College”? Still no? What about “driveaway car stuck in
a cornfield in Wisconsin?”
• Now we’re in the 21st Century: A great reunion: You, Joel, and I spending time together on a
desert trip to Palm Springs, Borrego Springs, and Desert Hot Springs glued to the television
every night in the “Glass House” the weekend of Hurricane Sandy. At one point you gave your
analysis of the situation, and I can’t remember now what you said, but I remember thinking,
Yes, that’s the same old Steve I remember from eighth grade - as usual he’s really got a handle
on
the situation and sees things about it I didn’t realize until he pointed them out.
• A couple years later, good memories with you on our other hiking expedition with Joel to Bear
Valley high in the California Sierra - to a waterfall, the Pacific Crest Trail - where we stayed at
my friends’ condo that you drove to from San Francisco, then continued on to explore the
mountains near Yosemite.
In fact here’s a list of the hiking trips you, Joel, and I took:
• 2011 (not sure of date) Palm Springs, Borrego Springs (our first trip as a trio)
• March 2012 Death Valley, Valley of Fire, date farm outside small town of Tecopa between
Death Valley and Vegas, Red Rocks (adjacent to Las Vegas)
• Oct 2012 Joshua Tree and Desert Hot Springs (where we stayed in the “Glass House” with
front patio and cactus garden, staying glued to the television every morning and evening the
weekend of Hurricane Sandy).
• August 2014 Bear Valley in the High Sierra (at my friends’ condo; we hiked the Pacific Crest
Trail and a trail alongside a cascading waterfall).
Thanks for the memories...!. Always – Doug Tempkin
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Stories, Songs & Poems
I wish I had a humiliatingly, embarrassing tale I could tell on Steve but, dammit, I don’t.
The problem with Steve — ah, maybe THIS is the way I can embarrass him — is that he
was the flawless cool guy I wanted to be.
Although the Prostens and the Shufros lived in the same south side Chicago apartment
building when we kids were toddlers, family moves soon put us in different neighborhoods
and elementary schools. It wasn’t until high school that Steve and I really became
friends and I could see what a smooth operator he was.
In short, Steve had it all. He had a great big brother Joel and a cute little sister Libbie.
He was an athlete, on the swim team along with Joel, and so good at it that he had a
summer job as a lifeguard and, of course, actually saved lives. He was a great basketball
player too, but I think his parents put him on a one-team limit. He was in the band,
playing trumpet alongside his cool friend Tito. He was class president. He was prom
king. And, of course, he had a girlfriend.
I, on the other hand... Anyway, Steve was way cool.
He was so cool that when I, on the school newspaper, asked that upon his election
as class president he and his co-officers dance The Twist for a photo so I could write
a headline declaring “new officers twist into office,” he wisely declined, believing the
image not befitting the office. The bastard!
I got back at him somewhat. While Steve typically spent his evenings doing — shudder
— homework, I would usually be goofing off, frequently listening to a radio station
with a disc jockey who had a wide following among the high school crowd. One evening
he had some sort of name- that-tune contest, and the winner’s name would be
announced. I called, won, and declared myself to be Steve Shufro from Hyde Park High
School. The Next day at school Steve, totally befuddled, was on the receiving a lot of
‘attaboys ‘and congratulatory backslaps.
I THINK I eventually confessed.
“A Cool Guy Dammit!”
by David Prosten
“Friends For Life”
by Aunt Louise
“I played the trumpet.” this is what makes Steve special for me; I have pictures in my
mind of moments with Steve; playing the trumpet is one of those moments, though I
never heard him play but he said it, adamantly, and its stayed with me.
Behind the house on Drexel Blvd, we played ball with the new aunt who spoke funny.
As a young teen-ager Steve cme to visit us in Port Washington, during summer vacations.
We went to Jone’s Beach and packed lunches—Steve could not get over the 1”
thick sandwiches.- “Aunt Louise, a sandwich for me is one slice of baloney between
two pieces of bread!”
Big smile, big laughing eyes- after four years in the Oregon boondocks, Steve was no
longer my funny nephew – but a full-grown man with a political agenda.
We had serious conversations about jobs, about living in Brookyn, long walks. We
eventually talked about women, the future where to settle down. There was a mutual
trust between us, a trust that never failed.
Boston is where love took Steve, the enchanting wedding in the meadow. Years that
followed unfurled peacefully –two little Shufros joined the tribe, the family moved to
the suburbs of Boston, purchased a house and settled down. Steve smiles at the wonder
of it all. Pam had the magic touch when it came to making a home beautiful.
And Dad, Matt and Gwen came to visit us at the farm in Conway. I opened all the lower
kitchen cabinets, the kids took out al the cooking pots make a racket. Steeve looking
concerned “Oh, Steve, I like all the banging, They’re having a fun time.”
Parents and children grew up. Pam maintained a decorum in the dining-room, fine antiques
appeared in the living room, Steve so proud.
Moments of great anxiety came unbidden; Matt’s return from Japan with a serious
infection; Pam’s eyes, jobs, financial planning.’’ Pam’s long commmunities home after
long days at work. My good friend Steve was sad in the telling but not helpless.
Things got better. We received post-cards from Europe, Steve an Pam often came
to visit in Williamstown; Steve introduced me to Edie who became good friends, and
Gwen got married. Lo and behold Pam and Steve Immensely happy grandparents.
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Steve and I are fast friends forever. He came to visit us, here in Millerton, and an easy
thing to do for him and for Pam. It was an unforgettable moment of friendship. Once
more we talked about brooks, about the grandkids, about the last Seder, about the
exigencies of Parkinsons. He telephoned October last, this is what I play and replay in
my mind. Just good friends!
49

Stories, Songs & Poems
A Dedicated 75th Birthday Song
A Dedicated Poem
by a colleague of Steve’s
Steve, a good man, a mensch, at star to look up to.
One who care’s about man’s humanity to man.
A facilitator of human and caring human relations; who skillfully encourages
community building among confrontative factors.
Steve, a leader who fashions organizations toward a kinder and gentler style
with a more effective way of being.
A father who cares deeply for his children, who wants them
to be strong and good; A husband giving total support to his wife.
Steve, a motivator, a curious soul who always takes a challenge, wasting none
of his talents on taking the easy way out.
A curious soul, who finds grace in nature, and is eager to experience it always.
and everywhere.
Steve, a self-contained individual, who takes his quiet night after a busy day,
considering how much better the world can be.
SHUFRO!!
(For Steve’s 75th Birthday, to the tune of Downtown)
When we were young and life was busy and fund
We made a friend, you know
SHUFRO!
Claflin was fightin’
Like the Clash of the Titans and he helped, you know
SHUFRO!
We worked to form an afterschool, a safe school-day extender
Somewhere where the teachers didn’t look like ex-offenders
How could we lose?
The board was a tense affair
And though we ran into troubles and pulled out our hair, we had
SHUFRO!
Always so smart and smooth
SHUFRO!
He helped us lift the mood
SHUFRO!
We celebrate you tonight
SHUFRO!
SHUFRO!
SHUFRO!
SHUFRO!
We needed teachers and all new classroom features
You led the team, you know
SHUFRO!
And when it snowed and Brenda was a no-show
You didn’t scream, you know
SHUFRO!
You’re great in an emergency, so smooth, calm and collected
The fact that we were clueless somehow no one else suspected
How could we Lose?
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51

“Bro Steve”
Through a SISTER’S lens
admittedly not a poet,.... but somehow writing in verse helped my flow)
Hope you enjoyed 'taking a walk'
down memory lane!
Steve...
A good guy and family man,
Enjoys people, dogs, and cats,
Gets great pleasure making jokes,
(especially if someone laughs ...)
Steve...
A caring ‘mensch’
for whom the small things matter,
Delivers newspapers errant-flung
from faraway lawns to neighbors’ porches.
Steve...
A humble man
In awe of nature,
Takes keen pleasure in mountain hikes
& local jaunts for ice-cream.
Steve...
An unassuming man
and thoughtful fellow
Provides leadership of substance
Rooted in vision and values that run deep.
Bro Steve...
Fine with casual, or gourmet fare
Loves music with a beat,
Emits a calm that grounds one’s soul
Just like ‘a tree standing by the water’
Heart felts thanks to Steve’s Colleagues, family and
friends for their enthusiastic contributions.
• Steve’s family and friends who helped me to construct “Steve’s Story” by sharing
their experiences, stories and photos,
• Spasticat members, and Hilkevitch sisters (Margie, Bonnie & Victoria) for their
enthusiastic support and photographic contributions.
• Aunt Louise who despite the pandemic confusion ensured that Post Office delivered
ON TIME her hand-written contribution and memorable photos.
• Sister in-law Pam, for her thoughtful dialogue with Steve to help capture Steve’s
professional life, and for distracting Steve’s attention away from this surprise
project (!)
• Bro Joel, for his keen review and for the diligent copy editing of Carol Steinsapir.
• Husband Don West for his restorative photography and groundedness.
• My artist-friend and colleague Christle, who enhances everything with the visual!
A Heartfelt thanks.
Please note: This is a creative interpretation of Steve’s life as seen through the eyes
of his younger sister. Please excuse any unintentional inaccuracies or disputed facts.
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