3rd Ward Resource Fair a Smashing Success

On May 8th, Alderman Dowell brought together elected officials, nonprofits, and other neighborhood service providers to host a 3rd Ward Resource Fair - a one-stop-shop for residents' needs right in the community. Thank you to 3rd Ward Staff Allyson Allison, Lucy Macedo, Yvonne Green, and George Willborn for coordinating this important event. And a huge thank you to the providers: QCDC, Cook County Commissioner Dennis Deer, Midway Moving and Storage, State Rep. Kim DuBuclet, Cook County Sheriff Tom Dart, the Metropolitan Water Reclamation District, City Clerk Anna Valencia, Cook County Commissioner Bill Lowry, and Illinois State Treasurer Michael Frerichs.

At the event, residents were able to find their unclaimed property through the iCash Program, receive free document shredding services, apply for their City Key cards, turn in used electronics and prescriptions, and enter into a rain barrel raffle! If you missed this event and need any of the services listed above, please contact Alderman Dowell's office at 773-373-9273 or at Ward03@cityofchicago.org to find out how to access these important resources.

Alderman Dowell, 1st Police District Sponsor Blood Drive

On May 29th, Alderman Dowell teamed up with Aldermen Lamont Robinson (4th) and Desmon Yancy (5th), and the 1st Police District to host a community blood drive. Thank you to all the volunteers and donors, and to Versiti for administering the blood drive. Participating donors received a $15 e-gift card for their donations. Donations will support patients at 85 area hospitals and 62% of patients are from Chicagoland and Northwest Indiana. To schedule your own donation, or for more information on hosting blood drive, please call 1-800-7TO-GIVE.

Alderman Dowell Leads City Council in Three Honorary Resolutions - Dr. Dorothy Jean Tillman II; Public Allies; Older Americans Month

Following Alderman Dowell's lead, the Chicago City Council during its May meeting honored Dr. Dorothy Jean Tillman II for earning her doctorate at 17 years old, Public Allies for their role educating the next generation of political leaders, and Older Americans Month which recognizes the contributions older residents continue to have throughout our country.

First, Alderman Dowell honored Dr. Dorothy Jean Tillman II, a 3rd Ward resident, who earned her Doctorate in Integrated Behavioral Health from Arizona State University at the age of 17. She is the daughter of Jimilita Tillman of the Harold Washington Cultural Center and granddaughter of former 3rd Ward Alderman Dorothy Tillman. Dorothy Jean is an extraordinary, bright individual who exemplifies the best of Chicago and Black achievement!

Next, Alderman Dowell recognized Public Allies Chicago, founded in 1993 by the former First Lady of the United States Michelle Obama, for serving as a model of youth education and advocacy. Public Allies is a 10-month, full-time, working experience and leadership development program for young adults. As a national organization, Public Allies has trained over 8,000 young adults. Alderman Dowell also formerly served as the Executive Director of Public Allies Chicago.

Finally, Alderman Dowell helped City Council celebrate Older Americans Month, which honors the diversity and contributions of our nation's seniors. Chicago is home to over 500,000 residents 60 years old or better.

Crossing Guard for Beasley AC in the 3rd Ward Named "Crossing Guard of the Year"

Congratulations to Tammy Anderson for being named Crossing Guard of the Year by Chicago Public Schools. Tammy works her magic and great smile every day, rain or shine, for the students and parents at Beasley Academic Center at 53rd and State Streets. Students love her, and both CPS and the community are very appreciative of her focus on keeping our young people safe…all with a flare!!

Night Out in the Parks 3rd Ward List

Night Out in the Parks brings over 1,000 cultural events to neighborhood parks each year. Chicagoans and visitors alike enjoy world-class events in every one of the city's 77 community areas. From traditional performances and concerts, to community workshops, nature-based programs, dance performances, festivals, and more, there is something for everyone happening in the parks this year! 

Bronzeville Microgrid is Complete!

Alderman Dowell, ComEd, and community leaders celebrated the completion of ComEd’s Bronzeville Community Microgrid. During electrical outages, rain or shine, the microgrid powered by solar energy, will reliably power 1,000 area customers, businesses and institutions towards our green energy future. Thanks to Senator Durbin, the Department of Energy, ComEd, CHA and the members of the Bronzeville Advisory Council that have led the Bronzeville Community of the Future process. To learn more about the microgrid and all of the projects that are part of the Community of the Future project, click here.

Alderman Dowell Part of Guaranteed Income Advisory Group

The City of Chicago has announced the launch of an advisory group of City of Chicago officials, Chicago City Council members, and community advocates to advise on the Chicago Empowerment Fund, a guaranteed income pilot using federal dollars through the American Recovery Plan Act (ARPA). Alderman Dowell has been named as a member of the Guaranteed Income Advisory Group. The advisory group will be tasked with providing guidance on the eligibility and outreach strategies for the guaranteed income pilot.

Guaranteed income is an essential policy tool for directly serving residents, and Chicago is proud to be a national guaranteed income leader. Guaranteed income gives people what they need most – reliable money to support their daily costs. The new pilot program builds on the success of the City’s first guaranteed income pilot, the Chicago Resilient Communities Pilot (CRCP), also funded through ARPA. According to the University of Chicago Inclusive Economy Lab’s initial insight on the CRCP, 70 percent of participants were Black, 72 percent were women and 14 percent were housing unstable.

Juneteenth Baseball Invitational Tournament at Armstrong Park

The Armstrong Park Advisory Council received a small grant from the Chicago Parks Foundation to host a Juneteenth Baseball Invitational Tournament at Armstrong Park. This event is part of the CPF Connecting Communities Award, which supports advisory councils with resources to host events to foster meaningful relationships within their community. Residents can attend the games or help sponsor the tournament by using the linked form.

Where: Armstrong Park (4433 S. St Lawrence Ave.)

When: Wednesday, June 19th from 9:00 am to 8:00 pm

University of Chicago Fossil Lab Moves to Washington Park Neighborhood

Paleontologist Paul Sereno’s Fossil Lab at the University of Chicago is moving to the center of the Washington Park neighborhood on South Wabash Avenue, just off Garfield Boulevard. The 6,000-square-foot facility opened May 2, transforming a 1921 wood-beam warehouse into a fossil wonderland.

In addition to housing Sereno’s fossil specimens, the new lab is designed to welcome the neighborhood as well. Featuring a colorful dinosaur mural on the front of the building, the glass walls of the Prep Lab and the mobile work desks and projector screen of the central Learning Room aren’t just for scientists and research. Sereno will invite community groups, teachers, and students to tour the facility and use its spacious rooms for meetings, service training, in-school visits, and after-school programs. For visiting hours and information, click here.

Alderman Dowell Celebrates the 95th Anniversary of the First Church of Deliverance

In May, Alderman Dowell was happy to celebrate the 95th Anniversary of First Church of Deliverance in Bronzeville where James R. Bryson, Jr. is the Pastor. The gala celebration and worship service was amazing with Pastor Reginald Sharp, Jr. of Fellowship Missionary Baptist Church delivering a powerful message inspired by Psalm 3:3 when you have “One of Dem Days.” Congratulations to the entire First Church of Deliverance community, and here is to another 95 great years of faith and service!

TRC Closes on RAD-2 Rehabilitation Project

The Renaissance Collaborative Inc. (TRC), a Bronzeville-based community development organization with a mission to promote self-sufficiency, is pleased to announce the successful closing of the RAD-2 (Rental Assistance Demonstration Phase II) rehabilitation project for the Renaissance Apartments, the organization’s flagship development. Originally opened in 2000, the upper floors of the restored historic former Wabash Y, Renaissance Apartments provides 101 single-room occupancy (SRO) units to individuals with a history of chronic homelessness.

Since 2010 Renaissance Apartments has operated under yearly Section 8 allocations. This new contract will transfer the Mod Rehab Section 8 units into RAD-2 Section 8 housing units, ensuring rental affordability is extended another 20 years.

The RAD-2 contract also provides investment capital to rehabilitate the building to ensure it is stable for that entire 20-year period. The building’s boiler has already been replaced and upcoming repairs include a full replacement of the roof and insulation, replacement of hot water systems, transition away from a concrete parking lots to a green water-retention lot and upgrades to the elevator system. All residential apartments will also undergo renovation with current residents temporarily moving to a vacant unit while their apartment is upgraded.

VanderCook College of Music Announces Appointment of President Kimberly Farris

VanderCook College of Music proudly announced the appointment of Ms. Kimberly Farris as their next President. She will begin her appointment on August 1, 2024, following the retirement of Dr. Roseanne Rosenthal.

With a successful career in both music education and administration, Ms. Farris brings a wealth of experience and leadership to this role. As the Director of Admissions for VanderCook, her leadership has shaped the college's recruitment efforts and fostered strong connections within the music education community. Her innovative strategies and creative marketing for the college have not only expanded VanderCook's reach but also strengthened its reputation as a premier institution in the field. For more information about VanderCook College of Music and the appointment of President Farris, visit www.vandercook.edu.

Problem Business - Jones Auto Center (5100 S. Wabash Ave.)

On May 13th the Department of Business Affairs and Consumer Protection conducted an inspection of Jones Auto Center (5100 S. Wabash Ave.) for operating without the required Motor Vehicle Service license, failure to display a required license, and operating a business or occupation which has been closed by the Commissioner. The business has an upcoming hearing in the Department of Administrative Hearings on July 9, 2024 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.

Problem Business - Last Chance Food Mart (347 E. 47th St.)

On May 24th the Department of Administrative Hearings entered a judgement against Last Chance Food Mart (347 E. 47th St.) in the amount of $8,040 for operating without the required Retail Food Establishment license. Questions regarding this case can be directed to the 3rd Ward Public Service Office at 773-373-9273.

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 Fire vs. LA Galaxy

Saturday, June 1st at 7:30 pm

Argentina vs. Ecuador

Sunday, June 9th at 5:30 pm

Kenny Chesney Concert

Saturday, June 15th at 5:00 pm

Billy Joel Concert

Friday, June 21st at 7:00 pm

Rolling Stones Concert

Thursday, June 27th at 8:00 pm

Rolling Stones Concert

Sunday, June 30th at 8:00 pm

Chicago Star Award from the City Treasurer's Office

The Chicago Star Award aims to highlight the remarkable contributions of small businesses in Chicago and foster community involvement by inviting members of the public to nominate local establishments that contribute to the vibrancy of their communities.  

The City Treasurer's Office (CTO) will provide resources to the winners to help enhance their visibility, marketing, and overall success. Additionally, awardees will gain access to exclusive business workshops facilitated by the CTO’s community partners, covering essential topics like financial management, digital marketing, and growth strategies. Recipients will also receive a special invitation to the fourth annual Building Wealth Today for Tomorrow Financial Education and Empowerment Summit at the UIC Forum on October 12, where they will find networking opportunities and further professional development. 

To be eligible, businesses must operate within the City of Chicago, be registered with the Department of Business Affairs and Consumer Protection (BACP) and have no outstanding delinquent debt or felonies. Additionally, nominated businesses must not currently be engaged in business with the Chicago Treasurer's Office in any capacity, nor be a franchise or a large business with more than 500 employees.

Nominations for the Chicago Star Award are open NOW and remain open until 11:59 p.m. Central on September 2, 2024. To submit a nomination or learn more, visit. www.chicagocitytreasurer.com/chicagostars.

City to Relaunch TIFWorks Program

The Department of Planning and Development's Small Business Development Bureau is preparing for the relaunch of the TIFWorks program aimed at businesses & companies within TIF districts. This initiative offers reimbursement grants to small businesses to subsidize training, enhancing business performance, profitability, and increase workforce productivity in Chicago. In the 3rd Ward, businesses in the following TIFs may be eligible for TIFWorks funds when the program is fully operational by the end of this year or early next year: 47th/Halsted, 47th/King Drive, 47th/State, Bronzeville, Michigan/Cermak.

To keep updated on the release of TIFWorks applications, or for complete program rules and regulations, please visit the Department of Planning and Development's website.

47th/King Dr. SBIF Opens Saturday, June 1st

The Department of Planning and Development (DPD) and SomerCor will roll out the Small Business Improvement Fund (SBIF) grant program for applications in the following TIF districts in June.

• 47th/King Dr.

Applications open: 9 a.m. Saturday, June 1st

Applications close: 5 p.m. Sunday, June 30th

The SBIF program uses revenue from TIF districts to help owners of commercial and industrial properties to repair or remodel their facilities for their own business or on behalf of tenants. Tenant businesses are also eligible to apply on their own. Please note that residential projects are not eligible for the SBIF program, and residential developers should not apply.

Program participants can receive grants for 30 to 90 percent of project costs, with a maximum grant of $150,000 for commercial properties and $250,000 for industrial properties. The grants are administered by SomerCor on the City's behalf and do not have to be repaid.

Free White Sox Ticket for Veterans

The Cook County Clerk's Office is again teaming up with the Chicago White Sox to offer a game ticket to veterans, active-duty military, national guard and reserves. To get a ticket, simply sign up for the free Military and Veterans Discount Card with the Cook County Clerk's office, present your card at the Gate 4 Box Office window at Guaranteed Rate Field within two hours of game time, and claim your complementary ticket. Tickets are subject to availability and are good for Monday-Thursday home games, excluding games held on June 24-26, and August 12-14. Learn more at cookcountyclerk.com/veterans or call 312-603-5788.

SBA Expands 504 Green Loan Program

Effective April 30, 2024, the Small Business Administration (SBA) removed the $16.5 million cap on Energy Public Policy projects, also known as Green Loans, financed by the SBA 504 Loan Program.

Borrower benefits to using the SBA 504 Green Loan are:

• Larger SBA/CDC Loan Amount – SBA maximum contribution is up to $5.5 million per loan - compared to a $5 million maximum for non-green projects. There is no limit on total project cost. 
• Unlimited Aggregated Lending – Borrowers can now have multiple SBA 504 Green Loans with no aggregate cap limit on capital.

To be eligible for a SBA 504 Green Loan, borrowers must meet one of these metrics:

• Reduce energy consumption by at least 10 percent (compared to historical consumption) through building upgrades.
• Generate at least 15% renewable energy (solar, wind, geothermal, hydropower, and biomass) through property upgrades.
• Increase the use of sustainable design, including designs that reduce the use of greenhouse gas emitting fossil fuels or low-impact design that reduce the use of non-renewable resources and minimize environmental impact.

The SomerCor team is here to help. Visit the SomerCor website to learn how the SBA 504 Green Loan can help your clients. 

The Odyssey Project

The Illinois Humanities Odyssey Project is a free college-credit bearing humanities program for income-eligible adults who have had limited access to higher education. The University of Chicago’s Department of Race, Diaspora, and Indigeneity is proud to support this program. Apply by June 15 here.

Do You Have The Best Yard?

Do you live in the Bronzeville, Douglas, Englewood, Kenwood, Grand Boulevard, Hyde Park, Oakland or Washington Park community? Do you have the best yard in the neighborhood? If so, enter the best yard competition sponsored by the Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Chi Omega Omega Chapter. Prizes are $200, $100, and $75. Contest rules and entry forms are available here. Entries will be accepted between May 22nd and June 22nd.

Veterans Summer Sports Clinic

The Chicago Park District and the Shirley Ryan Abilitylab are sponsoring a Veterans Summer Sports Clinic featuring rock climbing, archery, pickleball, golf, and disc golf. To register, click here. Questions, email veterans@chicagoparkdistrict.com.

Where: McKinley Park (2210 W. Pershing Rd.)

When: Monday, June 3rd from 9:00 am to 3:00 pm

First Monday Jazz with Jeremiah Collier and the Re-Up Band

JC AND THE RE-UP BAND consists of unique musicians who value culture, good morals, and a love for diverse music genres, including Latin, Jazz, Gospel, Hip-Hop, R&B, Pop, and Neo Soul. Based in the Chicagoland area, the band gained popularity through their Porch Sessions on Chicago's South Side, specifically on 74th and Indiana Ave. This exposure led to numerous opportunities and featured them on the COFFEE MUSIC platform, where their video garnered 1.8 million views. Led by drummer Jeremiah Collier, who has collaborated with renowned artists like Kamasi Washington and Stanley Clarke, the band aims to reach new heights with passion and love for music. Register here.

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

When: Monday, June 3rd from 7:00 pm to 9:00 pm

Building a Future Narrative - Building a Financial Forecast

Financial forecasting involves predicting a company's financial future by examining historical trends and incorporating assumptions about the future. By having a forecast available, owners can better position the business to navigate good times and bad. Register at www.qcdcbronzeville.eventbrite.com.

Where: QCDC Office (4210 S. Berkeley Ave.)

When: Monday, June 3rd from 6:00 pm to 7:30 pm

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, June 4th from 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm (link to register)

Credit Repair For Small Businesses

Navigating the financial landscape as a small business owner can be challenging, especially when it comes to managing credit. A healthy credit score is not just a number—it’s a key that unlocks opportunities for growth and stability. Join Accion Opportunity Fund in their upcoming webinar, “Credit Repair for Small Businesses,” where experts will share insights and practical tips to help you repair and enhance your business credit.  Register for the virtual event here.

When: Wednesday, June 5th at noon

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. This is a virtual meeting.

When: Thursday, June 6th from 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm (link to register)

FAME Center Block Party

School is out, and the party is on! FAME (Fortson Arts and Music Education) Center, a nonprofit organization that offers a wide variety of music, theater, creative writing and art classes for children in the South Loop, is hosting its first annual block party! With an initiative to encourage attendees to donate, FAME Fest is a free event that will help fundraise for the center's upcoming summer camp program, allowing the staff to grant scholarships and buy supplies. To register for FAME Fest, please visit

www.famecenter.org/event-details-registration/fame-fest.

Where: 1319 S. State St.

When: Friday, June 7th from 2:00 pm to 6:00 pm

Vehicle Safety Giveaway

The 2nd District CAPS Office is sponsoring a vehicle safety giveaway. Steering wheel locks, catalytic converter stickers, and gun locks will be provided for free, while supplies last. Questions? Please call 312-747-5109.

Where: 35th St. and Prairie Ave.

When: Saturday, June 8th from 10:00 am to 1:00 pm

Doing Business with Bally's Supplier Diversity Vendor Fair

Don’t miss an opportunity to join Bally’s Chicago Purchasing and Chicago Community Builders Collective (CCBC) to learn more about contracting opportunities for the Bally’s Chicago Casino project. Meet with City of Chicago, Cook County and other certifying agencies along with a host of business development resources. Engage with key stakeholders and decision-makers for match-making possibilities. There will be an open forum for networking and dedicated sessions to enhance your learning. Register for the event here.

Where: Chicago Teachers Union (1901 W. Carroll)

When: Tuesday, June 11th from 10:00 am to 3:00 pm

Women Veteran Recognition Day

You are invited to join the Women's Health Program for a special Chicago boat tour along the beautiful Chicago River. Let's celebrate Women Veteran Recognition Day together! Seats are limited. For more information or to RSVP please call 312-569-8387 ext. 59339.

When: Wednesday, June 12th at noon

KKC Instant Admissions Day

Unlock your future in a day at Kennedy-King College! Take advantage of this unique opportunity to complete your admissions process in just one day. Bring your academic records and identification to expedite your process. For registration go to https://forms.office.com/r/msV88E22v2 or call 773-602-5090.

Where: Kennedy-King College W Building (6343 S. Halsted St.)

When: Thursday, June 13th starting at 9:30 am

Prayer on the Corner

The 2nd District CAPS Office, Rain or Shine Baptist Church, and Chicago City Life Center are hosting a Payer on the Corner event with remarks from Pastor Olumide. Come and experience the dynamic worship and powerful prayer.

Where: 35th St. and Prairie Ave.

When: Thursday, June 13th from 5:00 pm to 6:00 pm

RearView Mirror Sessions: George Benson

We will start at the Green Line Performing Arts Center with a lecture by Duane Powell, renowned music historian and DJ, as he brings to life George Benson's music and legacy. After the lecture, we will move to the Arts Lawn for an evening of relaxation on the green with music from our talented musical guest, Larry Brown, Jr. Register here.

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

When: Thursday, June 13th from 6:30 pm to 9:00 pm

Tour the Arts Block

You're invited to take a walking tour of all four venues managed by Arts + Public Life: Arts Incubator, Green Line Performing Arts Center, L1 Retail Store, and the Arts Lawn. We will discuss the rich cultural history and current context of the Arts Block as it relates to the Washington Park neighborhood and offer details about the purpose and function of the venues along the historic block of East Garfield Boulevard. You’ll also have the opportunity to learn more about the APL programs and community engagement initiatives. Register here.

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

When: Friday, June 14th from 4:30 pm to 5:30 pm

Adult Book Discussion: Three Girls from Bronzeville

Join King Branch for a discussion of Dawn Turner's memoir Three Girls from Bronzeville. "They were three Black girls. Dawn, tall and studious; her sister, Kim, younger by three years and headstrong as they come; and her best friend, Debra, already prom-queen pretty by third grade. They bonded—fervently and intensely in that unique way of little girls—as they roamed the concrete landscape of Bronzeville, a historic neighborhood on Chicago’s South Side, the destination of hundreds of thousands of Black folks who fed the ravages of the Jim Crow South.

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

When: Saturday, June 15th from 11:00 am to noon

Little Builders: Books and Block Play

Join us for some fun, indoor playtime offering imaginative open play with a variety of blocks and fun building toys. For kids 0 to 6 and their caregivers.

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

When: Thursday, June 20th from 5:30 pm to 6:30 pm

Joffrey for All

The Joffrey Ballet is hosting an open house at their South Loop studios as part of their Joffrey for All program. The Joffrey Ballet South Loop Studios offer free dance classes for all ages and all ability levels. To sign up click here.

Where: Joffrey Ballet South Loop Studios (1920 S. Wabash Ave.)

When: Sunday, June 23rd from 10:00 am to 3:00 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: June 26th at 3:00 pm

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

2nd District CAPS Meetings

Beat: 213/215

Date: June 25th at 6:00 pm

Location: Rosenwald Community Center Senior Room (4642 S. Michigan Ave.)

Beat: 221/223

Date: June 18th at 6:00 pm

Location: Taylor Park (39 W. 47th St.)