Alderman Dowell Gives Away Turkeys, Supports Local Organizations in Thanksgiving Celebrations

As she does every year, Alderman Dowell gave away turkeys to local residents, and supported neighborhood organizations with turkeys in order to help make sure those in need had a happy Thanksgiving holiday. Thank you to True Rock Ministries Church, the 2nd District CAPS office, the Bronzeville Trail Task Force, and to everyone who donated and distributed turkeys this year. A special kudos to Allyson, Lucy and Yvonne of the 3rd Ward Public Service Office who made sure the entire turkey giveaway program was a success!

Mayor Johnson, Finance Chair Dowell Tour Churches, Discuss FY24 City of Chicago Budget

As Chairman of the City Council Committee on Finance, I am proud of my leading role in negotiating the city's budget. I had the honor of visiting several 3rd Ward churches with Mayor Brandon Johnson and Judge Greg Mathis to share highlights of the 2024 Bity Budget including Apostolic Faith Church, Fellowship MB Church, Greater Harvest MB Church, and Indiana Pentecostal Church.

The FY24 Budget fulfills the City's commitments to its residents, and moves the needle forward in a meaningful way on transformational priorities such as: mental healthcare for all, homelessness prevention and support, stabilizing CPD’s officer ranks, reestablishing the Department of the Environment, funding a Reparations Commission, investing in street level/ community-focused violence prevention services, and much more. And it does all this and more without raising property taxes or cutting the institutional supports that are the foundation of good government. My full statement on the budget can be found here.

I Am A Gentleman Opens in New Space

Please join Alderman Dowell in congratulating I Am A Gentleman, Inc. for opening Project Gentlemen, their new storefront at 540 W. 35th St. Led by founder Jermaine Lawrence Anderson, The Project Gentlemen Experience is comprised of an 8-hour day filled with guest speakers, interactive workshops, higher-education vendors, food and culminates with students being able to shop for their graduation outfit in their new official department store. Each student has the opportunity to leave with at least 1 suit, dress shirt, necktie and pair of shoes all based upon available inventory. Jermaine and I Am A Gentleman have been a pillar of the community for years. Congratulations Jermaine and keep up the great work!

Alderman Dowell Attends Honorary Street Naming for Shirley J. Newsome Way

Alderman Dowell attended the unveiling of the Shirley J. Newsome Way honorary street sign at 41st St. and Lake Park Ave. to celebrate a true warrior for the Kenwood Oakland community. What a force who is truly missed! Below is what I wrote upon her passing on Christmas Day, Sunday, December 25, 2022:

"Ms. Newsome was a tireless leader for the community, starting in 1981 when she organized the Lake Park-Berkeley-Ellis-Drexel Block Club Association. Her work continued as the head of the Kenwood-Oakland Community Conservation Council (NK-O CCC) where she fought against the displacement of longtime residents by helping the neighborhoods receive landmark status to preserve existing housing. She then served as the Chairman of the Board of Directors for the South East Chicago Commission from 2008 to 2019 and as the Chairman of the Board of Directors for the Quad Communities Development Corporation since 2008 where through both organizations she focused on bringing economic development to the mid-south side. Because of her vast experience in housing, Ms. Newsome was appointed Vice-Chair/Commissioner of the Chicago Community Development Commission.

Shirley Newsome was taken out of retirement in 2011 when she was appointed as the Alderman of the 4th Ward to replace Toni Preckwinkle following her election as the President of the Cook County Board. Always grounded in her faith, Ms. Newsome worshiped and served in various leadership positions at Monumental Baptist Church since 1979. Her warmth, faith, leadership and unwavering dedication to the community is greatly missed."

Owner of 72 E. 51st St. Withdraws Gas Station Proposal

The owner of 72 East 51st Street has decided to withdraw their application to construct a gas station on the property. This means that a gas station will not be built, and the Zoning Board of Appeals did not consider the project during their November meeting. Thank you to all the residents who participated in this extensive community process.

Representing the wishes of her community, Alderman Dowell opposed the gas station proposal on the grounds that it did not fit the character of the community, and that there were multiple gas stations already operating in the immediate vicinity. Following the withdrawal of the gas station application, the owner has not brought a new proposal to Alderman Dowell for consideration. The same ownership group maintains control of the property, and should they propose a new use for the site, Alderman Dowell will bring the development to the community for review and input.

Winter Street Parking Restrictions Start December 1st

Beginning December 1st, if you see a posted sign that says No Parking Between 3AM and 7AM, that means that the winter overnight parking ban is in effect on this street, whether it snows or not. Do not park at this location between 3AM and 7AM from now until April 1st or you will be ticketed and towed. You should also avoid parking on snow route streets during heavy snowstorms when more than 2 inches of snow has fallen.

If you believe that your vehicle has been towed, you can dial 311 for more information or go to https://webapps1.chicago.gov/vehiclesearch/ and enter your license plate or VIN number. Click here for a citywide map of snow routes and for complete information about winter parking restrictions in Chicago.

DPI Headquarters Informational Outreach Session

Discovery Partners Institute, in collaboration with the Illinois Capital Development Board, is seeking qualified firms to bid on the construction of DPI’s new headquarters, the first development at The 78. The full bid package will be released in the 1st quarter of 2024. This outreach event is being hosted in partnership with Alderman Pat Dowell.

Where: XS Tennis and Education Foundation (5336 S. State St.)

When: Tuesday, December 5th at 10:00 am

Dearborn Park II Residents and Alderman Dowell Host Clean and Green at Local Park

Kudos to Dr. Stephen Caliendo and the Dearborn Park II Advisory Committee for sprucing up Mary Richardson Jones Park (1240 S. Plymouth Ct.) during their annual Fall Clean and Green. Thanks to Marchelle Collins, 3rd Ward Streets and Sanitation Superintendent for providing supplies and Renee Barrera and Allyson Allison from the 3rd Ward Public Service Office for providing the treats for all!

Alderman Dowell Meets with New Commissioner of Planning Ciere Boatright

Following the announcement of Ciere Boatright as the new Commissioner of the Department of Planning and Development, Alderman Dowell met with Ms. Boatright for an initial introductory discussion regarding the 3rd Ward's development needs. Alderman Dowell has a strong existing relationship with Ms. Boatright, stemming from her time directing development for Chicago Neighborhood Initiatives, a leader in neighborhood development with a focus on affordable housing. Ciere was instrumental in the construction of the Bronzeville Marino's, and many residents may know her as part of the project team for the 3rd Ward Disruptive Design competition.

South Loop Event Parking Restrictions

Parking restrictions are in place for the South Loop from Roosevelt Road to Cermak Rd. from Lake Shore Drive to Clark St. during all Chicago Bears football games and many other Soldier Field events. Wintrust Arena events have been removed from the parking restrictions. Vehicles parked in the South Loop without a valid South Loop Event Parking Pass, South Loop Event Guest Pass or Residential Permit Parking pass (for Residential Permit Parking Streets ONLY) are subject to ticketing or towing.

For a complete list of Soldier Field events, please visit www.soldierfield.com/events/all. The 3rd Ward is providing the list below as a courtesy to residents and visitors and does not assume liability for the accuracy of the monthly list of South Loop events. All Soldier Field events are subject to change, including cancellation or the scheduling of additional events. It is your responsibility to adhere to the parking restrictions in place. 

Chicago Bears vs. Detroit Lions

Sunday, December 10th at noon

Chicago Bears vs. Arizona Cardinals

Sunday, December 10th at 3:25 pm

Chicago Bears vs. Atlanta Falcons

Sunday, December 10th at noon

People's Gas Assistance Programs

Customers participating in energy assistance programs such as Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP), Percentage of Income Payment Plan (PIPP), or the Share the Warmth program, late fee waivers should be applied to the customer's account. If you are a customer that qualifies for the fee waiver and are not seeing it on your bill, contact People's Gas at 866-556-6001. Peoples Gas is willing to work with any customer struggling to pay their bills. Further information can be found on their website at: www.peoplesgasdelivery.com/payment-bill/budget. Additional assistance programs can be found here.

Tutoring Chicago

Life-changing role models needed. No experience necessary. One-and-a-half hours per week is enough to change a child's life. You don't need any special skills, you just need to be willing to be there reliably for just one kid, and that child's family. Find out how at tutoringchicago.org/volunteer. In-person and virtual options available. Presented by SBEV Chicago Impact Center (5410 S. State St.).

VanderCook College of Music Position Available - President

The President of VanderCook College of Music is its Chief Executive Officer responsible for executing the mission of the College. He or she has the authority to manage the institution within the framework of the policies and procedures outlined in the College’s Faculty and Staff Handbook, College Catalog, By-laws, Strategic Plan and its accrediting agencies. Full job description and qualifications can be found at www.vandercook.edu/president-application.

Please email your CV, cover letter, three letters of reference, and up to three work samples showcasing your professional work experience to presidentsearch@vandercook.edu. Please do not send hard copies. Priority deadline is January 15, 2024 but applications will be accepted until the position is filled

Hyde Park Holly Day

The University of Chicago is excited to present a full day of free, fun holiday activities for your whole family to enjoy! Come check out an ice carving demonstration and dance performances, meet live reindeer, make holiday crafts, and take pictures with Soul Santa, Mrs. Claus, and Buddy the Elf. More information can be found here.

Where: Harper Court (5235 S. Harper Ct.), The Promontory (5311 S. Lake Park Ave.), and Hyde Park Shopping Center (55th St. and Lake Park Ave.)

When: Saturday, December 2nd

A Taste of the Nutcracker

Hyde Park School of Dance will perform scenes from Tchaikovsky's famous ballet, The Nutcracker based on Hans Christian Anderson's fairy tale. Meet the Nutcracker Prince, Clara, the Sugar Plum Fairy, and other characters from this delightful production. This is a free program open to all ages.

Where: King Branch Library (3436 S. King Drive)

When: Saturday, December 2nd at 10:45 am

NHS Home Buyer Education Webinar

Learn about the home buying process such as the basics of budgeting, improving credit, understanding the closing process and down payment assistance programs. This is an eight-hour course delivered in two 4-hour sessions.

When: Saturdays December 2nd and 9th from 9:00 am to 1:00 pm (link to register)

Veteran and Family Ice Skating

The Chicago Park District is hosting free ice skating for veterans and their immediate family (up to 4 people) with skate rental included. Contact aimee.gottleib@chicagoparkdistrict.com with questions.

Where: Morgan Park Sports Center (11505 S. Western Ave.)

When: Saturday, December 3rd from 12:30 pm to 2:30 pm

Blood Drive

Cook County Health is proud to partner with Vitalant to host a blood drive. To schedule an appointment, call Vitalant at 877-258-4825 or click the following link. While appointments are recommended, walk-ins are welcome.

Where: Stroger Hospital Cafeteria (1969 W. Ogden Ave.

When: Tuesday, December 5th from 9:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. 

NHS Financial Literacy Webinar

Whether you are planning to purchase a home or simply need to improve your finances, this webinar will

prepare you for financial security. Learn How To: develop a spending plan, reduce your debt, and increase your credit score.

When: Tuesday, December 5th at 6:00 pm (link to register)

Chicago Criticism: A Culminating Discussion

Join the inaugural cohort of the Chicago Critic’s Table for our culminating discussion. The Chicago Critics Table was founded on the belief that we need new forms of criticism and critical communities that can connect across audiences and platforms that have been siloed. We’ll start with a brief summary of the Critics Table’s activities in its first year, and continue with a panel discussion exploring various questions concerning our Chicago Critics today. Register here.

When: Thursday, December 7th from 6:00 pm - 7:30 pm

Where: Green Line Performing Arts Center (329 E. Garfield Blvd.)

Physics with a Bang!

Families, students, teachers and especially the curious are invited to attend this event to experience fast, loud, surprising, and beautiful physics demonstrations! Talk to scientists about their latest discoveries and take tours of their labs. This event is hosted by the Materials Research Science and Engineering Center (MRSEC) at the University of Chicago. Get more information here.

Where: Kersten Physics Teaching Center 106 (5720 S. Ellis Ave.)

When: Saturday, December 9th starting at 11:00 am

PrairieLights

The 3rd Annual PrairieLights event, hosted by the United Neighbors of Prairie Block Club, will feature free photos with Santa, free hot chocolate, food trucks, holiday music and more. Donations of new socks or gloves for teens in need will also be accepted.

Where: 3500 and 3600 blocks of S. Prairie Ave.

When: Saturday, December 9th at 5:30 pm

My Best Friend Is Black: A Live Comedy Show

My Best Friend is Black provides a platform for Black comedic performers. This Black-produced comedy show brings Chicago’s funniest for stand-up, improv, games, and more. 

Friday headline: Fab Monroe - Register here

Saturday headliner: Marlon Mitchell - Register here

When: Friday, December 15th and Saturday, December 16th from 8:00 pm- 10:00 pm

Where: Green Line Performing Arts Center (329 E. Garfield Blvd.)

Holidays in Bronzeville Shop and Sip

There’s no need to travel outside of Bronzeville to discover the perfect gift this holiday season. Join the Quad Communities Development Corporation on December 16th for a festive day of shopping and holiday cheer as you check everyone off your list. More information and participating locations is available here.

Where: Various Locations in Bronzeville (link above)

When: Saturday, December 16th from noon to 6:00 pm

Veterans Pickleball Tournament

Open round robin format for beginner, intermediate and advanced veteran pickleball players. Proof of service is required. To register, contact aimee.gottlieb@chicagoparkdistrict.com or call 312-881-0499.

When: Saturday, December 16th at 9:00 am.

Where: Ellis Park (3520 S. Cottage Grove Ave.)

Soulful Chicago Holiday Book Fair

holiday book shopping at its best! Over 100 black titles on sale, along with gifts and fun for the entire family. Visit www.soulfulchicagobookfair.com for more information.

Where: Betty Shabazz International Charter School (7823 S. Ellis Ave.)

When: Saturday, December 16th from 10:00 am to 6:00 pm

Celebrate Nguzo Saba: a pre-Kwanzaa Event

King Branch Library presents the Chicago Association of Black Storytellers who will share stories and songs that will guide participants through the seven principles of Kwanzaa. Adult and youth storytellers will share stories along with African drumming.

Where: King Branch Library (3436 S. King Dr.)

When: Saturday, December 16th from 2:00 pm to 4:00 pm

Attending and participating in the Chicago Police's Community Policing Program (CAPS) is one of the best ways to address crime and quality of life issues in your neighborhood. By attending CAPS meetings, you can share important information with the police that will assist them in making arrests and preventing crime as well as receive valuable information about resources that promote homeowner and community safety. Visit www.chicagopolice.org to find out what district you live in and click on each district title to learn more about what is happening in your neighborhood.

1st District CAPS Meetings

Beat: 132

Date: December 20th at 5:30 pm

Location: For location information, please email Caps.001District@chicagopolice.org or call312-745-4381

2nd District CAPS Meetings

Beat: 213/215

Date: December 19th at 6:00 pm

Location: Rosenwald Courts Apartments Senior Room (4642 S. Michigan Ave.)

Beat: 221/223

Date: December 13th at 6:00 pm

Location: Greencastle of Kenwood (4909 S. Cottage Grove Ave.)