Third Ward Newsletter

October 2023

In this Issue


Third Ward Update


Important Announcements


October CAPS

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Dear Brian,


When good things happened in our City I think it's important that they are recognized and celebrated. That is why I'm asking you to join me in congratulating CPS on their first increase in student population in 12 years! This is a great accomplishment and a testament to the work we have all done to make public schools the best choice for our City's students.


I know in the 3rd Ward we have worked hard to provide quality educational opportunities for all residents. We have opened up a new CPS elementary school building for the booming South Loop community, a new high-performing classical school in Bronzeville, new programming for Mollison, a new athletic complex at Phillips, preference boundaries for Dyett, a new high school planned for the South Loop, and so much more. Schools really have led the vitality of the communities in our ward.


I am confident that public schooling in Chicago will continue to grow in quality and that will be reflected in not only the number of students who attend CPS schools, but in their academic performance as well. Congratulations CPS and let's continue to grow together!


As always, the 3rd Ward Public Service Office staff and I are available to assist you by phone at 773-373-9273 or via email at Ward03@cityofchicago.org. Thank you for reading this newsletter. Please share it with a neighbor or friend.


Sincerely,


Pat Dowell

Alderman, 3rd Ward

Third Ward Update

3rd Ward Sponsored Events

Alderman Dowell is bringing resources to the community! She has partnered with various government agencies and community service organizations to help residents get everything from their annual flu/COVID-19 vaccine, to shredding services, to appealing their taxes. Check out the fliers below for more information or to register for any of the events. More information on these events is available by calling 773-373-9273 or emailing ward03@cityofchicago.org.

Alderman Dowell Amends Pedicab Ordinance to Prevent Pedicabs on 18th St. Bridge

During the September 2023 City Council meeting, Alderman Dowell introduced an ordinance to protect residents who use the 18th St. pedestrian bridge to get to both Soldier Field events and the lakefront. The ordinance prevents pedicabs from using the 18th St. bridge and the surrounding area which includes Roosevelt Rd. to the north, 18th St. to the south, DuSable Lake Shore Drive on the east, and Indiana Ave. on the west. The ordinance will protect pedestrians and traffic in the hectic 18th St. bridge area, especially during events on the lakefront/Soldier Field.


This ordinance only affects pedicab operations. Pedicabs will still be allowed to operate and serve businesses and residents outside of the area outlined above. The ordinance will be considered for full passage at the October 2023 City Council meeting.

CPD Chief Larry Snelling Appointed Police Superintendent

With Alderman Dowell's strong support, Chicago Police Department Chief of the Bureau of Counterterrorism Larry Snelling was appointed CPD Superintendent by a unanimous vote of the City Council. Congratulations to Superintendent Snelling on this well-deserved appointment. Alderman Dowell has a long and positive history with Superintendent Snelling dating back to when he was Commander of the 7th District (Englewood), and Deputy Chief of Area 2, which covers portions of the 3rd Ward.


Superintendent Snelling is well-regarded within CPD ranks not only for his work in the field, but for heading the redesign of the Department's use-of-force training model around national best practices and constitutional policing, and as the lead trainer for field force training for the 2012 NATO Summit. Superintendent Snelling joined CPD in 1992 as a patrol officer in his home community of Englewood.


Superintendent Snelling was identified as a candidate for police superintendent through a months-long, community-lead search process headed by the Community Commission for Public Safety and Accountability. From a list of three finalists, Superintendent Snelling was then chosen by Mayor Brandon Johnson and had his appointment submitted to City Council for review and approval.


Superintendent Snelling takes over for Interim Superintendent Fred Waller, who dutifully and capably served the City when Chicago needed leadership the most.

3rd Ward Public Safety Meeting - September 18th

On September 18th, Alderman Dowell hosted a combined 1st and 2nd Police District Public Safety Meeting at Quinn Chapel AME Church. Thank you to Rev. Troy K. Venning for letting Alderman Dowell use his historic venue, and to all the residents who came out to discuss public safety in our neighborhood.


At the meeting 1st District Police Commander David Harris and 2nd District Police Commander Yakimba Phillips talked about the police response to prominent issues like car jackings, robberies, theft, vehicular vandalism and more, and how residents can prevent themselves from becoming a victim. Most importantly, if you see something, say something. Police resources and responses are driven by 911 calls, so a call to 911 is never a waste of CPD or the call-takers time. A copy of the video for the meeting can be found on Alderman Dowell's Facebook page here.

Chicago Monuments Project Grant for George Washington Monument

Through a Chicago Monuments Project grant, the George Washington Monument located at 5531 S. King Drive in Washington Park in the 3rd Ward will be rehabilitated. Local visual artist Amanda Williams (pictured right) will lead the $300,000 beautification and renewal of this historic statue. Designed by Daniel Chester French in 1904, the statue is a duplicate of a 1900 Paris sculpture, and the Chicago version was commissioned by wealthy residents. 

UChicago Arts Lawn Grand Opening!

Arts + Public Life, an initiative of UChicago Arts at the University of Chicago, is excited to announce the grand opening of the Arts Lawn on Saturday, October 7, 2023.  


The inaugural ceremony will feature University of Chicago, City of Chicago, and State leaders, as well as performances by Kuumba Lynx and the King High School Marching Band. In addition, there will be family-friendly activities and a photo booth.


Throughout the day, guests will be invited to #SupportingSouthSideArtists at Vends + Vibes, a beloved annual arts marketplace showcasing the creativity and entrepreneurial spirit of local South Side vendors. More than 20 entrepreneurs with curated products, including handmade goods and art, will be present.


The event will conclude with the world premiere of a short film by D-Composed, projected on the exterior screen wall of the adjacent Green Line Performing Arts Center. 

IIT

Illinois Tech Ranked #23 in 2024 Best Colleges in America

The Wall Street Journal has released its 2024 Best Colleges in America Report, and Illinois Tech Ranked #23 in the Nation and #1 in Illinois! Illinois Tech is so thrilled that their university vaulted ahead in this year’s Best Colleges rankings due in part to essential updates to the ranking methodology that increased the weight of student outcomes, with particular emphasis on graduation rates and the earning potential of graduates. Illinois Tech was also ranked #16 for Salary Impact, the highest-ranking university in Illinois, validating the university’s focus on student success. You can read more about this story on Illinois Tech's website.

Driehaus Preservation Awards Bronzeville Legends Project for Cultural Heritage Preservation

The Richard H. Driehaus Preservation Awards honors individuals, organizations, and programs demonstrating a commitment to historic preservation. This year, Bronzeville Legends has won the 2023 Landmarks Illinois Richard H. Driehaus Foundation Preservation Award for Cultural Heritage Preservation.


Bronzeville Legends, launched in 2014 by Chris Devins, is a curated multi-site placemaking campaign that uses large murals of the South Side community’s past residents to celebrate Bronzeville’s rich heritage. Other award winners this year include the Old Post Office Chicago Adaptive Reuse Project, the Tribune Tower Renovation and more.


Learn more about Bronzeville Legends and other award-winning preservation efforts at Landmarks Illinois’ website.

Chicago Excellence in Gardening Awards (CEGA) Recognizes Belnavis Bird and Botany Balcony

Since 2017, the Chicago Excellence in Gardening Awards (CEGA) Committee, Chicago's only citywide gardening honors program, has recognized almost 300 Chicago gardeners from the north, south, west, and even east for their contributions towards making their neighborhoods--and the planet--better places to live. In 2023 CEGA has recognized the Belnavis Bird and Botany Balcony at 1919 S. Wabash Ave. in the 3rd Ward for their outstanding gardening work. This honor is proof positive that individual citizens can do wonders in their own backyards to make Chicago more beautiful and sustainable.

Conduit Installation Project - State St. and 43rd St.

ComEd is providing notification for a proposed conduit installation project at State St. and 43rd St. The proposed 1,360 linear feet of 2-5” PVC concrete encased conduits will be installed via open cut trench beginning by coring into the east wall at State St. and 43rd St. travelling north. All cuts will be restored upon completion. ComEd is projecting this work to commence in Q4 2023.

Problem Business - MK Savvy LLC (2036 S. Michigan Ave.)

On September 2, 2023 the Department of Administrative Hearings entered a judgement against MK Savvy LLC (2036 S. Michigan Ave.) in the amount of $2,040 for operating without a business license. Questions regarding this case can be directed to the 3rd Ward Public Service Office at 773-373-9273.

Problem Business - East/51st (208 E. 51st St.)

On September 5, 2023 the Department of Administrative Hearings entered a judgement against East/51st (208 E. 51st St.) in the amount of $1,040 for hosting large events without a business license. Questions regarding this case can be directed to the 3rd Ward Public Service Office at 773-373-9273.

Important Announcements

Chicago Marathon - Sunday, October 8th

The Bank of America Chicago Marathon will be held on Sunday, October 8th. Streets in certain areas of the 3rd Ward along the course route will be closed to traffic starting at 7:00 am and continuing to 4:00 pm. A comprehensive list of street closures and their approximate reopening is available at chicagomarathon.com/streetclosures. Towing of vehicles on the course will begin at 1:00 am on Sunday, October 8th. For inquiries about towed vehicles, call 312-744-4444. If you have any questions, contact the Chicago Marathon by emailing office@chicagomarathon.com or visit chicagomarathon.com for more information about the event.

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 FC vs. Inter Miami FC

Wednesday, October 4th at 7:30 pm


Chicago Fire FC vs. Charlotte FC

Saturday, October 7th at 7:30 pm


Chicago Bears vs. Minnesota Vikings

Sunday, October 15th at noon


Chicago Bears vs. Las Vegas Raiders

Sunday, October 22nd at noon


Illinois Court-Based Rental Assistance Program

The Illinois Court-Based Rental Assistance Program (CBRAP) provides funds directly to eligible tenants if their landlord is unresponsive or chooses not to participate in the program. Participants receive up to three months of future rent payments to assist with moving into a new home following an eviction or a terminated lease.


Tenants must be a Chicago tenant currently in court for eviction due to failure to pay rent. They must have a rental delinquency for more than one month's rent. The rental delinquency must be related due to the circumstances the family has experienced or is experiencing because of the pandemic. Assistance is provided as a grant and does not need to be repaid. This funding opportunity expires in December. For more information call 866-454-3571 or email CBRAP.info@ihda.org.


Robbery Safety Tips

Don't be a victim! Always be alert and aware of the people around you. Be aware of locations and situations that would make you vulnerable to crime such as ATMs, alleyways, dark parking lots, or deserted streets. Be alert to your surroundings, especially after dark or if you are alone. During a robbery, become an expert witness. Remain calm and do not resist. Assure the robber you will cooperate and take no action that may jeopardize your safety. Take mental notes of the robber's appearance, any vehicles, weapons, clothing, etc. After a robbery immediately go to a safe location where you will feel secure, your safety is your top priority. Call 911, try not to touch anything at the scene, and find a witness and ask them to remain with you. If they leave, write down their name, address, and telephone number.


The Chicago Department of Law is Hiring

Please see below for our most up to date attorney job opportunities at the City of Chicago Law Department (DOL).

 

SENIOR ATTORNEYS - DOL has five (5) Divisions hiring Senior Supervisor-level attorneys:   

Regulatory & Contracts, Federal Civil Rights Litigation, Labor, Constitutional & Commercial Litigation, Legal Information & Prosecution. SENIOR-LEADERSHIP VACANCY:  Deputy Corporation Counsel – Torts.

 

ENTRY to MID-LEVEL ATTORNEYS - DOL has twelve (12) Divisions hiring entry to mid-level attorneys: Building and License Enforcement, Torts, Federal Civil Rights Litigation, Regulatory & Contracts, Employment Litigation, Risk Management & Compliance, Finance, Labor, Constitutional & Commercial Litigation, Revenue Litigation, Legal Information & Prosecution, and Real Estate. 

 

STUDENT OPPORTUNITIES: Paid Law Clerk Positions, Year-Round Clerkship, Non-Paid ExternshipPost-Graduate Fellowship, Pre-Law Volunteer Program Summer 2024 Law Clerk Program Open House more information coming soon here.


Small Business Growth Fund is Back!

the Small Business Growth Fund is back for the third and final round of 2023! in partnership with the Global Entrepreneurship Network (GEN) and with funding from Etsy and Progressive, the Small Business Growth Fund provides small business owners the capital they need to make their next move. Recipients will receive $5,000-$25,000 grants to help accelerate their growth and achieve their goals. Apply here.


Don't Clever Your Way Out of Cash

How you communicate your business can attract new customers, new opportunities, and impact your revenue. Presented by the Quad Communities Development Corporation. Register here.


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

When: Tuesday, October 3rd from 6:00 pm to 8:00 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, October 3rd at 6:00 pm (link to register)


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: Wednesdays October 4th, 11th, 18th, and 25th from 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm (link to register); Saturdays October 7th and 14th from 9:00 am to 1:00 pm (link to register)


Cosmopolitan Community Church Blood Drive

The Cosmopolitan Community Church Nurses Guild will be hosting a blood drive in partnership with the American Red Cross. We need your help. The Black community has an urgent need for blood. Your blood could be a valuable, lifesaving gift to someone. As an added incentive, all donors will receive a $20.00 gift card from Amazon. If you are able to assist in this endeavor early registration is available at www.redcrossblood.org/give.html/find-drive. From there enter the 60615 zip code and find the Cosmopolitan Community Church Blood Drive link.


Where: Cosmopolitan Community Church (5249 S. Wabash Ave.)

When: Saturday, October 7, 2023 from 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.


Southside Connection Symposium

learn about pathways to a multi-million dollar business. Keynote speakers include: City of Chicago Deputy Mayor Kenya Merritt, Sr. Vice President of Community Development for PNC Daryl Newell, Founder and CEO of 37 Oaks Terrand Smith, and many more! More information at www.secc-chicago.org/symposium.


Where: DuSable Museum (740 E. 56th Pl.)

When: Saturday, October 14th from 8:00 am to noon


CPS Five-Year Strategic Plan Outreach Events

Chicago Public Schools (CPS) launched the planning and public engagement process for a new five-year strategic plan during Thursday’s Chicago Board of Education meeting at Austin College & Career Academy High School. The District will begin the development of a five-year strategic plan, which will include an Educational Facilities Master Plan (EFMP) Report that details the state of CPS facilities. The district will host a series of public engagement events to share updates and solicit input from families, educators, and members of the community. Below, you will find the engagement opportunities for the month of October.


October 21, 10 a.m. - 12 p.m.

Virtual

REGISTER


October 23, 6 p.m. - 7:30 p.m.

Little Village Campus, 3120 S. Kostner Ave.

REGISTER


October 28, 6 p.m. - 7:30 p.m.

Julian High School, 10330 S. Elizabeth St.

REGISTER


The Wiggles & Giggles Halloween Bash

The Wiggles & Giggles Halloween Bash is a unique Halloween party for South Loop families with children, dogs and both. Co-hosted by the South Loop Dog Park Action Cooperative (SLDogPAC), South Loop Neighbors (SLN), and the Fred Anderson Park Advisory Council, the event is generously sponsored by Burnham Park Animal Hospital and South Loop Animal Hospital.


After registering for the costume contests, trick-or-treating, and other entertainment, there will be two Costume Parades and Contests, with multiple prizes in several categories such as Child, Dog, and Ensemble (a combination costume of humans and dogs). The two short Costume Parades will be on the strolling path surrounding the Performance Area. The Children’s Costume Parade and Contest will go first, and prizes given, followed by the Dog and Ensemble categories. Dogs must be on leash, unless inside the Dog Friendly Areas.


Where: Fred Anderson Park Performance Area (1629 S. Wabash Ave.)

When: Saturday, October 21st from 1:00 pm to 4:00 pm


Home Movie Day

Join the annual celebration of the South Side Home Movie community! Spend a cozy afternoon watching scenes of vintage South Side life in our Pop-Up Video Lounge, complete with comfy couches, popcorn and a live DJ. Get a sneak peek at the latest revelations from the Ramon Williams Collection, offering a new lens on the South Side’s cultural contributions to Black arts and social class in America. Plus, talk to an archivist on-site about preserving and donating your family films, and check out our new resources for high school students and teachers. Register here.


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

When: Saturday, October 28th from noon to 3:00 pm


Financial Management Series for Small Business owners

Join the Quad Communities Development Corporation (QCDC) for a follow-up conversation as they discuss how participants have used the tools shared in the Financial Management Series. Sign up here.


Where: QCDC Office (4210 S. Berkeley)

When: Monday, October 30th from 6:00 pm to 7:30 pm

October CAPS Meetings

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: October 18th at 3:00 pm

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

312-745-4381


2nd District CAPS Meetings

Beat: 213/215

Date: October 24th at 6:00 pm

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


Beat: 221/223

Date: October 17th at 6:00 pm

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

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