Alderman Dowell Lights Up the Christmas Season in Bronzeville

On November 30th, Alderman Dowell joined the Chicago Defender Charities and many festive 3rd Ward residents to kick-off the Christmas season in Bronzeville with the lighting of the Christmas Tree at 35th St. and King Drive. This is the 3rd year the Chicago Defender Charities has sponsored this beautiful holiday tree. Please check it out and take the opportunity to support our local businesses this holiday season!

3rd Ward Christmas Toy Drive

It's time for Alderman Dowell's annual Christmas Toy Drive. Please bring new, unopened toys you would like to donate to the 3rd Ward Public Service Office at 5046 S. State St. The office will be accepting donations through Monday, December 16th. Help us make someone's Christmas extra special!! Call 773-373-9273 with any questions.

True Rock Ministries' Thanksgiving Giveaway

True Rock Ministries provided Thanksgiving blessings of a turkey, canned goods and clothing to over 1,000 people at their church at 16th St. and Wabash Ave. in the 3rd Ward. Pastor Grandberry drove a hard bargain with Mariano's for the turkey donation which allowed True Rock to serve so many deserving residents. Happy holiday to all…Gobble Gobble from the 3rd Ward.

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.

Alderman Dowell Named to States Attorney O'Neill Burke's Transition Team

Cook County States Attorney-elect Eileen O'Neill Burke has announced the members of her transition team, which includes Alderman Pat Dowell. A transition team assists and advises an incoming elected official with important tasks like hiring, setting policy goals, and outreach to members of the public and fellow elected officials.

The three transition co-chairs are Alderman Dowell, Community Commission for Public Safety and Accountability President Anthony Driver, and former U.S. Secretary of Education Arne Duncan, who now runs the violence prevention group Chicago CRED. They will lead nine subcommittees which will undertake the work of transitioning O'Neill Burke into the role of States Attorney.

Alderman Dowell Visits Brownies

After spending the day in budget hearings, Alderman Dowell had the opportunity to speak to a group of very smart and inquisitive 3rd Grade Girl Scout Brownies! Thank you to the troop leaders for setting up this uplifting experience.

Acorn Poll Replacement - 1200-2000 S. Michigan

Due to safety concerns with the structural integrity of the base of the poles, the CDOT Division of Electrical Operations has removed 19 smaller, single acorn light fixtures on Michigan Ave. between Roosevelt Rd. and Cullerton St.

While these poles are currently unavailable in CDOT's existing stock, they anticipate a shipment early next year. This does not affect the taller streetlight poles, which remain in operation. When installation is scheduled, the 3rd Ward Public Service Office will send an alert to residents.

Congratulations Malcolm Whiteside on Retirement from DSS

On behalf of the 3rd Ward Public Service Office staff and the entire 3rd Ward community, a heartfelt congratulations to Malcolm Whiteside on his November 30th retirement from the Department of Streets and Sanitation. As the Deputy Commissioner overseeing the Bureau of Forestry, Malcolm was responsible for the care and maintenance of the City's 580,000 plus tree canopy. In that role, he instituted the new grid tree trimming system, which aims to trim the City's trees more effectively and efficiently. He also helped battle invasive species and protected countless trees, while strategically replacing trees where needed. Malcolm was always responsive and available to residents and staff, no matter the hour. Thank you Malcolm for your years of service to the City and best of luck in your future endeavors!

Commission on Chicago Landmarks Denies Demolition of 2347 S. Michigan Ave.

On November 7th, the Commission on Chicago Landmarks denied the permit application for the demolition of the building at 2347 S. Michigan Ave. The Commission is a nine-member body made up of members of the public who are responsible for recommending buildings, sites, objects, and districts for legal protection as official Chicago landmarks

At a series of public hearings, Alderman Dowell advocated against the demolition, as the building is a contributing property in the Motor Row Landmark District that exhibits historic architectural characteristics associated with the district. In addition, Alderman Dowell strongly believes the property must contain a memorial to the victims of the E2 disaster as part of its redevelopment. While the building will not be demolished, a redevelopment plan for the property has not been submitted to the City. Should that occur, Alderman Dowell will bring the plan to the community for review and input.

Bronzeville Streetscape Update

Below please find a brief summary of the anticipated work to be done along 47th Street as part of the Bronzeville Streetscape project over the next week starting the week of December 2, 2024.

This week the contractor anticipates continuing restoring the remaining curb from Prairie to King Dr. and from Vincennes to Evans, and installing topsoil in the new planter areas and tree pits along the south side of 47th.

ComEd Construction Project - 301-325 E. 18th St./1800-1817 S. Calumet Ave.

ComEd is providing notification for a proposed construction project at 301-325 E. 18th St. and 1800-1817 S. Calumet Ave. ComEd has planned installation of 437 feet of 12-5'' conduit via open cut trench and another 14 feet of 12-5'' conduit at the alternate location with cuts to be restored upon completion. This project is being undertaken on behalf of McCormick Place. This build is scheduled for Q1 2025.

Problem Business - 3526 S. Calumet Ave.

On November 9th the Department of Business Affairs and Consumer Protection conducted an inspection of 3526 S. Calumet Ave. As a result of the inspection, citations for operating without the required Motor Vehicle Service license - Residential, failure to display a required license, and conducting motor vehicle repair activity on the public way were issued. A Cease and Desist order was issued, and the business has a hearing in the Department of Administrative Hearings scheduled for January 7, 2025 at 10:00 am to address the violations. Questions regarding this case can be directed to the 3rd Ward Public Service Office at 773-373-9273.

CDPH Releases Community Level Health Data

Based on recent data compiled by the Chicago Department of Public Health, the current state of health in the 3rd Ward provides reasons for optimism while also leaving some room for growth. COVID-19 hospitalizations in the 3rd Ward are low in comparison to other areas of the city. The ward also has low amounts of Cannabis-related hospitalizations, and a low percentage of the adult population with asthma.

The main area for concern is the transmission of STIs (sexually transmitted infections). From HIV, to Syphilis, to Chlamydia, 3rd Ward communities have seen very high rates of STI transmissions. The best way to limit the the spread of STIs is to ensure that you, and those around you, are aware of how these diseases are transmitted and to take the recommended steps to avoid contracting them. For the most up-to-date public health data, or to learn more about how the City can play a role in your health journey, please go to the CDPH website.

Alderman Dowell's Committee on Finance Team Wishes Everyone a Happy Holiday Season!!

Alderman Dowell's Committee on Finance Team Assisting with FY 25 Budget Hearings

(from left to right - Constantin Carrigan, Audrey Wade, Renee Barrera, Sharonica Obadele,

Tina Ford, Brian Freedman)

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 22nd at noon

Chicago Fire vs. Seattle Seahawks

Thursday, December 26th at 7:15 pm

Shop South Side

This holiday season, shop small and support South Side creativity at the L1 Retail Store! Discover unique, quality gifts crafted by local makers and entrepreneurs right in the heart of the Washington Park community. Shop from our 2024 L1 Fellows, Joli Chandler of Soma Gems Jewelry, Twjuana Simone Robinson of Callie Decor and Olu Adeleke of prgrssn

The L1 Retail store is located at 319 E. Garfield Blvd and is open Tuesday- Saturday from 11:00 am to 7:00 pm.

City of Chicago Law Department Volunteer Programs

The City of Chicago's Law Department offers unpaid and year-round volunteer programs in the areas of pre-law, law clerk, externship, and post-graduate fellowship. Division placement based on preference and availability. Come work for one of Chicago's largest law offices! Read more and apply here.

UChicago College Scholars Program

The University of Chicago Collegiate Scholars Program (CSP) was founded in 2003 and operated through the University’s Office of Civic Engagement. It is a free, three-year program that encourages talented Chicago Public Schools students to apply to and succeed at highly selective colleges and universities.

The Collegiate Scholars Program now accepts applications for the newest cohort of scholars, the CSP Class of 2028! Applicants must be current 9th-grade students in Chicago Public Schools.

The CSP Class of 2028 Application can be accessed here. The deadline to apply is Friday, February 7, 2025. Questions? Please email uccsp@uchicago.edu or call (773) 834-2774. 

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 3rd from 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm (link to register)

Know Your Rights Workshop

The Committee on Immigrant and Refugee Rights is hosting a Know Your Rights Workshop. The workshop will cover cultural competencies of the new immigrant, know your labor and civil rights, an immigration overview, and available community resources. Register at bit.ly/CIRR-KYR.

Where: Blackstone Branch Library (4904 S. Lake Park Ave.)

When: Thursday, December 5th from 3:00 pm to 6:00 pm

Never So Free Dream House

Celebrate the 2024 Never So Free Dream House Artists Kemi Alabi, Alexandra Antoine, Benji Hart, India Martin, Natasha Moustache, Thair, and cai thomas. Register at artsandpubliclife.org/never-so-free.

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

When: Friday, December 6th from 7:00 pm to 9:00 pm

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 four 2-hour sessions. This is a virtual meeting.

Where: NHS South Side Hub (639 E. 87th St.)

When: Saturday, December 7th and 14th from 9:00 am to 1:00 pm

Credit Basic and Restoration with Lisa Gavin

This class will teach you how today’s economy can affect your credit and borrowing power. You will receive in-depth information on repairing, restoring, maintaining, and securing your credit. Discover ways to navigate through the COVID adjustments available from Creditors. Register for the Zoom webinar class by using this link. For more information call the Housing Department at 773-548-8859.

When: Saturday, December 7th from 10:30 am to 12:30 pm

Ugly Sweater Bingo

Insight Hospital is hosting an Ugly Sweater Bingo for the holidays! Food, prizes, raffles and a prize for the ugliest sweater will be awarded. $2 per board and $0.25 for extra boards. Information at ncnmu.edu.

Where: Insight Hospital (2525 S. Prairie Ave., Grate Room, 12th Fl.)

When: Saturday, December 7th from 11:00 am to 3:00 pm

83rd Remembrance of the National Pearl Harbor Day

A "Post Everlasting" memorial program remembering and honoring all warriors assigned to USS Naval Shops or stationed on land-base at Pearl Harbor, Hawaii Sunday morning December 7, 1941 is being hosted by the Franklin D. Roosevelt Post 923.

Where: American Legion Post 923 (1824 W. Cortland St.)

When: Saturday, December 7th from 11:00 am to 12:30 pm

Talking Walls: Dinner and Conversation

Our spaces say a lot about us, but what are they saying TO us? Join Twjuana Simone, founder of Callie Decor, for an intimate dinner and discussion about the nostalgia of home décor. Together, we'll explore how the spaces of our childhood influence the homes we create today and reflect on the meaningful ways we can intentionally craft comforting foundations for our own families to cherish for generations to come.

Don't miss the cocktail hour activity "Getting the Last Word," an opportunity for all guests to collaborate on a wallscape/vignette using word tiles, artwork and Callie Décor tapestries. It's an Instagram-able moment! Register here.

Where: Arts Incubator (301 E. Garfield Blvd.)

When: Saturday, December 7th from 3:00 pm to 6:00 pm

Careers in Construction Information Session

Join Lakeside Alliance and the Mid-America Carpenters Regional Council for an information session covering: available applications, resources available to potential applicants, the application process and what to expect, a question and answer session. RSVP to tgary@lakesidealliance.com. More information is available at www.lakesidealliance.com/events.

Where: 1514 E. 63rd St.

When: Wednesday, December 11th from 3:30 pm to 4:30 pm

Out Loud: A Showcase of Youth Voice and Vision

Join Arts and Public Life to celebrate the community, unity, and the transformative power of art and witness the remarkable talent and creativity of our community’s young emerging artists. Connect with youth, engage in meaningful conversations, and explore the boundless potential of the next generation of artistic visionaries. Register here.

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

When: Wednesday, December 11th from 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm

Shop the Holidays in Bronzeville

It’s the most wonderful time of the year! Experience the magic of “Holidays in Bronzeville” when you shop locally and support our unique boutiques, art galleries, restaurants, and specialty shops.  

There’s no need to travel outside of Bronzeville to discover the perfect gift this holiday season. Discover the culture of Bronzeville through our beloved shopkeepers and entrepreneurs. Find one-of-a-kind gifts for everyone on your list, savor the flavors and sounds of Bronzeville, and gather family and friends to enjoy our festive events. Visit shoplocalbronzeville.com for a full listing of participating businesses and events.

When: Saturday, December 14th from noon to 6:00 pm

ABC7 Blood Drive - Southside!

Every two seconds, someone in the U.S. needs blood! You can help meet the need for blood donations by volunteering at the ABC7 Great Chicago Blood Drive. To register, visit https://tinyurl.com/rcabc72025.

Where: Imani Village (301 E. 95th St.)

When: Thursday, January 16, 2025 from 6:00 am to 9:00 pm

HBCU College Tour

The Chicago Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority Inc. is hosting a "Roadmap for the Future" a HBCU College Tour from April 1st to April 7th. The fee for the tour is $600. An informational session will be offered:

Where: D'Estee (4525 S. King Dr.)

When: Saturday, January 18th at 6:00 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 18th at 5:30 pm (in person)

Location: For location information, please email Caps.001District@chicagopolice.org or call 312-745-4381

2nd District CAPS Meetings

There are no 2nd District CAPS Meetings in December