A number of months ago, Decatur Classical School's principal (Susan Kukielka) and their local school council met with me to discuss the possibility of moving their school from Rogers Park to the Stewart campus.

Last week, I met with over a hundred parents from Decatur Classical School, along with the principal and the school's LSC, to further discuss this option of which I am in full support. For Decatur, this move would provide them an opportunity to add a 7th and 8th grade (currently they are only K-6) and increase the number number of classes to add more students.

Decatur Classical School is rated the #1 public grade school in Illinois, and their solid reputation would add greater strength to the 46th Ward. To view this school's website, click here.

Ultimately, it's the decision of CPS on whether or not this move will occur. Until that decision is made, I have asked to suspend the RFP process for other possible uses until a decision is made about Decatur Classical moving here. Although other private schools and developers have shown an interest, I believe that the best use for this site is a CPS school.

Best,

Meeting with Ald. Cappleman

Every Monday, residents with any questions or concerns are encouraged to meet with Ald. Cappleman during open office hours from 5pm - 7pm at the Ward Office, 4544 N. Broadway. Multi-unit buildings may also request having Ald. Cappleman visit to provide updates and answer any questions. Call 773-878-4646 to schedule an appointment.

Early Voting

On Monday - Friday from Monday, Oct 20 to Saturday, Nov. 1, there is early voting at Truman College from 9am - 5pm. Make sure to have your voice heard.

Congrats to Courtenay Language Arts Center

They were recently awarded a Comprehensive Gifted Program, which is offered in selected magnet, magnet cluster, and open enrollment schools throughout the Chicago Public Schools system. It is designed to provide a challenging, accelerated program of study for the top 10% of students in grades K-8 in each participating school. Selected students will receive accelerated instruction that is a half-year to one year above grade level. Instructors for this program undergo monthly professional development from nationally renowned experts in the field of gifted and talented learners. This program will start in the 2015 - 2016 school year.

CHA Wait List Opening

The Chicago Housing Authority (CHA) will be offering the opportunity to apply for 3 wait lists on one registration form. This includes the Family Public Housing, Tenant-Based Housing Choice Voucher, and Property Rental Assistance wait lists. This will be from Oct 27 through Nov 24. For more information, click here or call 312-971-7700.

Youth Forum Update

At the public meeting last night, barriers and opportunities were discussed to encourage parents, children, and young adults to make better use of the wonderful programming available in the 46th Ward. We will continue to work with interested organizations to break down any barriers for youth participation. Tomorrow, many of the youth services will be reconvening to develop stronger connections with one another by joining Alderman Cappleman in a tour of the programs throughout the ward.

Registration for Winter Basketball for Kids

When: Now until Oct 31, M-F: 3:30pm - 6pm & Sat: 10 - 2pm

Where: Pedersen-McCormick Boys & Girls Club

Boys and girls from ages 5 through 13 would start practice in early November. For more information, contact Sam Jensen, the athletic director, at 773-463-4161, ext. 111 or email sam@ngbc.org. The cost is $45. Click here to learn more about this wonderful organization.

Halloween Pumpkin Party

When: Sat, Oct. 25 from 10am - Noon

Where: Sunnyside Mall (corner of Sunnyside & Magnolia)

An event for kids and grownups alike, come meet your neighbors and have a lot of fun in the process. Plenty of pumpkin decorating along with other crafts and games. Costumes are encouraged and pets are also welcomed.

Buena Park Halloween Event

When: Fri, Oct 31 from 6pm - 8:30pm

Where: Starts at Buena Circle Park, 1049 W. Buena

All of Kenmore Avenue from Irving Park to Montrose participates in this event that has been very popular now for many years.

18th Annual Northalsted Halloween Parade

When: Fri, Oct 31 at 8pm

Where: Parade begins on Halsted from Belmont to Addison

You'll see some of the best costumes in the City at this annual event that is always packed with fun.

Public Safety Meetings

Each police beat in the 46th Ward has monthly CAPS meetings with the Police and the 46th Ward Office in attendance. This is the place to air your concerns and learn about the process to get follow up on any 911 calls that you've made. For more information about CAPS and their meeting schedules, click here.

For more information about the 46th Ward's plans to address public safety, click here to review the public safety portion of the 46th Ward Master Plan.

Drink & Ink (4443 N. Broadway)

Drink & Ink is having a soft opening this Thursday, Oct. 24 from 7pm - 9pm, with owner Paul Collurafici and Ald. James Cappleman serving as the celebrity bartenders. The public (over age 21) is invited to come celebrate the opening of this new bar on Broadway.