3rd Ward Resource Fair May 8th

Join Alderman Dowell and community partners for an opportunity to receive important community services right in your neighborhood! Programs and participants include: iCash Unclaimed Property from the Illinois State Treasurer, document shredding provided by Midway Moving and Storage, City Key from the Chicago Clerk's Office, Electronic Recycling and Rx Take-Back from the Illinois Sheriff's Office, a rain barrel raffle and free flower seeds from the Metropolitan Water Reclamation District, and much more! For further information or to register for a City Key, call 773-373-9273.

Where: 3rd Ward Public Service Office

When: Wednesday, May 8th from 10:00 am to 3:00 pm

Alderman Dowell, Mayor Brandon Johnson Attend Diverse Learners Recovery Fund Announcement

Mayor Brandon Johnson and Ada S McKinley CEO Jamal Malone announced the $5 million Diverse Learners Recovery Fund, which is designed to provide a one-time cash grant of $500 to eligible K-12th grade Chicago students with disabilities in public or private schools.

The program provides grants for as many as two eligible students per household, for a maximum one-time payment of $500 for one student and $1,000 for two students. A parent or guardian will be responsible for applying to the fund and receiving the cash payment on behalf of their student[s] if their eligible application is selected from the lottery. This no-strings-attached grant will not affect any benefits for families receiving government assistance, and there are no restrictions on what the money can be used for.

Eligible parents or guardians can apply online at www.AdaMOPD.com. Since the program uses a lottery selection method, submitting an eligible application is not a guarantee of receiving a grant.

Easter Celebrations in the 3rd Ward

Over the Easter weekend, groups from across the 3rd Ward participated in spring festivities, including the very popular Easter Egg Hunt at Women's Park and Gardens (1801 S. Indiana Ave.) hosted by the Prairie District Neighborhood Association. Thank you to Tina Feldstein for once again organizing this wonderful event for the community! Easter celebrations are always filled with smiling kids and families enjoying the day together. Truly heartwarming!

3rd Ward Residents Participate in Clean and Green Day

Another great Clean and Green Day was held on April 20, 2024. Thank you to all the residents and neighbors who came together to kick-off spring the right way, by beautifying our community! From public parks to the boulevards, schools and sidewalks, every bit helps. Thank you to all those that participated, including but not limited to: South Loop Elementary School, the 46th and Vincennes Block Club, and the residents of the 500 block of 46th St. And thank you to Marchelle Collins, 3rd Ward Superintendent, for coordinating the Streets and Sanitation work for this great day.

Clean and Green Day isn't the only opportunity to beautify our neighborhoods. We all should be working every day to keep our community clean! Everyone enjoys, and deserves, to live in a clean, safe community. So let's reach that goal together!

Mayor Brandon Johnson, Alderman Dowell Visit DuSable High School

Mayor Johnson and Alderman Dowell, stopped by the DuSable High School campus in April to hear from students about their expectations for school and the resources they need for academic success. Students shared many good ideas that were well received by the Mayor and CPS CEO Pedro Martinez.

Alderman Dowell is committed to providing a safe, equitable learning environment for all students. While Alderman Dowell does not have direct jurisdiction over school budgets or curriculums, she has worked with CPS and her City Council colleagues to: open the new Bronzeville Classical School, build a new gymnasium for Phillips High School, construct a new track for Jones College Prep, fund life safety/HVAC upgrades for multiple schools in the ward, expand the neighborhood boundaries for Dyett High School, construct a new playground for Beasley Elementary, secure funding for roof repairs and a playground at Mollison Elementary, and much more.

Alderman Dowell Leads Passage of Historic Housing and Economic Development Bond Ordinance

As Chair of the Committee on Finance, Alderman Dowell played a leadership role in passing an ordinance to secure historic funding for housing and economic development in the City of Chicago. This newly established program will put Chicago on par with its peer cities by funding the Departments of Housing and Planning and Development, and their related activities for the next five years, through the issuance of a $1.25 billion bond, instead of through the existing Tax Increment Financing (TIF) structure.

This change in funding has many advantages. Primarily, it is a more equitable way to fund development. Many communities that traditionally suffer from disinvestment do not have TIFs, or have TIFs that do not generate enough funds to support neighborhood development. The bond funds can help every community regardless of TIF status. Additionally, bond funds can be used for a greater range of project types. TIF funds by law can not be used to build a grocery store on vacant land in a food desert from the ground up. Bond funds can. Finally, bond funds are a sustainable funding source. Funding to support the bond does not come from a tax increase. It is supported by funds already coming into the City's general fund from TIFs that are expiring by law.

Chairman Dowell worked with her colleagues and Mayor Brandon Johnson's administration to hold multiple public hearings on the bond proposal, and collaborated on changes to the ordinance to increase transparency and accountability regarding the use of bond funds. For more information on the bond, and to access ongoing spending reports, please click here.

Digital Bus Shelter at 302 E. Cermak Rd.

JCDecaux and the City of Chicago are bringing an upgraded digital bus shelter to the stop at Cermak Rd. and Prairie Ave. (302 E. Cermak Rd.). The shelter will be equipped with new 75'' outdoor screens, the same type of screens that are currently installed on the shelters that serve Bus Rapid Transit stops. Installation is scheduled to be completed in time for the summer.

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

On March 26th the Department of Business Affairs and Consumer Protection issued an Order to Cease and Desist to Last Chance Food Mart (347 E. 47th St.) for operating without the required Retail Food Establishment license. The business has an upcoming hearing in the Department of Administrative Hearings on May 24, 2024 at 10:00 am to address the Cease and Desist Order. Questions regarding this case can be directed to the 3rd Ward Public Service Office at 773-373-9273.

Additional Parking Enforcement Complaints on 311 App

The Department of Finance is pleased to announce that City residents now have the option to report the following parking enforcement complaints on the 311 app or online:

Bus lane parking, commercial loading zone, commercial vehicle parked on a residential street, disabled parking, fire hydrant parking, other, residential parking, rush hour safety zones, school safety zones, and vehicles parked in bike lane.

Previously, only bike lane violations could be reported on the app. Complaints are one of the drivers of community-based enforcement. Residents can also report violations by calling 311 or clicking "Request Parking Enforcement" at www.chicago.gov/parking.

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. New England Revolution

Saturday, May 4th at 7:30 pm

Chicago Fire vs. FC Charlotte

Wednesday, May 15th at 7:30 pm

Chicago Fire vs. Columbus Crew

Saturday, May 18th at 7:30 pm

Chicago Fire vs. Orlando City SC

Wednesday, May 29th at 7:30 pm

Aviation Job Fair

The Chicago Department of Aviation is hosting its third annual Airport Expo and Job Fair on May 16th from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the UIC Forum at 725 W. Roosevelt Rd. The expo will connect hundreds of job seekers, contractors, and small business owners with employment and procurement opportunities available both within the department and Midway and O’Hare International Airports. For information and to register visit flychicago.com/airportexpo.

Farmers Market Schedule

Chicago Farmers Markets sell fresh seasonal produce, flowers, prepared foods, unique Chicago-made products and rare finds – at Chicago’s longest running farmers market on Daley Plaza, the historic Maxwell Street Market and community markets in neighborhoods across Chicago. Below is a schedule of farmers markets in and around the 3rd Ward:

Insight Farmer's Market (2525 S. Michigan Ave.)

Saturdays, starting August 17, from 10 a.m.-3 p.m.

Bronzeville Farmers Market (4700 S. King Dr.)

Sundays, from July 14 – October 20, from 10 a.m. – 2p.m.

UChicago Farmers Market (4 E. 58th St.)

Saturdays - starting April 27, from 10am-2pm

Jumping Jack Applications Now Available

With great pleasure, the Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events (DCASE) announces that the Jumping Jack Portal is NOW OPEN! The inflatable bounce house is available, free of charge, to Residential Block Parties within your ward from Saturday, May 25^th through Sunday, September 1^st.

Reminders:

• The Jumping Jack is limited to residential block parties within the Chicago city limits.
• Requests must be made through the Jumping Jack Registration Portal – no emails or phone calls will be accepted.
• The application is best completed on a computer using Google Chrome.
• Applicant must reside on the block where the Block Party is taking place.
• When completing the application, if all information is input correctly, the applicant will receive an immediate auto-reply confirmation message containing the request. If applicant does not receive the auto-reply message, the request WAS NOT received.
• To avoid errors:
• Be sure to manually fill in each of the boxes on the application; errors can occur when the fields auto-populate.
• Please try putting a “.” (period) after the letter used to denote the street direction.
• Press “SUBMIT” at the end of the application.
• Units are available on Saturdays and Sundays only. Requests are typically highest on Saturdays – applicants should consider Sundays.
• Only one request per block, per season will be honored. Multiple requests from the same block may be denied.
• If the incorrect date is selected in error, applicant MUST email JumpingJack@cityofchicago.org for further instruction. Last minute date changes will not be honored.
• Requests are filled on a first-come, first-served basis. 
• Applicants MUST receive a permit from their Aldermanic office in order to hold a Block Party.

The online application can be found here or by logging onto ChicagoNeighborhoodFestivals.us.

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: Wednesday, May 1st from 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm (link to register)

Arts in Bloom: A Teen Arts Showcase

Join UChicago for an engaging exploration into the minds of APL’s young artists, designers, and performers. Experience their creativity and innovation firsthand with two showings at 6:00 PM and 7:30 PM. Discover design objects, an intriguing exhibition, and enjoy a dynamic theater performance that's sure to inspire. Register for the 6:00 pm show here, and the 7:30 pm show here.

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

When: Friday, May 3rd at 6:00 pm and 7:30 pm

Rental Workshop

The South Side Community Federal Credit Union is hosing a Rental Workshop where residents will learn about the Best Practices when looking for rental properties such making sure that the amenities that you are looking are a part of the rental package as well making sure you can receive efficient in a timely manner for repairs in your living quarters. You will also learn how to determine if renting or buying a home is best for you. Register here.

When: Saturday, May 4th from 10:30 am to 12:30 pm

Blood Drive

The Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity Upsilon Sigma Chapter is hosing a blood drive. Did you know one in 83 moms needs a blood transfusion after giving birth? Join us in honoring mothers by donating and you’ll be entered to win one of 83 gift cards worth $83 each! Donors must have an online donor account and be opted into the Donor Rewards program to qualify for this drawing and to receive points to redeem for the

gift card(s). To schedule an appointment contact Vitalant at 877.258.4825 or visit Vitalant.org and use group code: 10054103.

Where: Vitalant Bloodmobile (4941 S. King Dr.)

When: Sunday, May 5th from noon to 4:30 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, May 7th from 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm (link to register))

CPS Job Fair

Chicago Public Schools Talent Office is hosting a CPS Job Fair in the community for positions with CPS. Positions include teacher assistant, special education classroom assistant, nurse, security officer, cook, porter, crossing guard, tutor, bus aide, substitute teacher and many more. To register for the event, please visit bit.ly/CPSJobFair5924.

Where: Chicago Teachers' Union (1901 W. Carroll Ave.)

When: Thursday, May 9th from 10:00 am to 1:00 pm

Crafting for Women Veterans

The Chicago Vet Center is hosting a morning of self-care and creativity. Women veterans are invited to celebrate Mother's Day and enjoy a fun morning of creating a craft, connecting with other women veterans while eating some good food. To RSVP call 773-962-3740.

Where: Chicago Vet Center (8658 S. Sacramento Ave.)

When: Saturday, May 11th from 10:00 am to noon

Rear View Mirror Sessions: Gladys Knight

Celebrated music historian and DJ, Duane Powell dedicates the second installment of the 2024 Rear View Mirror Sessions to the great Gladys Knight. Following this one-of-a-kind music lecture, the show will close with an inspired musical tribute by Frankie “Breezy” Parker. Register here.

Where: Logan Center for the Arts (915 E. 60th St.)

When: Tuesday, May 14th from 6:00 pm to 9:00 pm

Bronzeville-Black Metropolis National Heritage Area Fundraising Event

The final installment of the Grand Boulevard Trilogy The Prodigal Daughter by Joshua Allen and directed at Jerrell Henderson is coming to the Raven Theater. Get your tickets at www.raventheatre.com/stage/tpd/. Use promo code "History" for the Sunday, June 2nd performance.

Where: Raven Theater (6157 N. Clark St.)

When: May 16th through June 22nd

Etiquette Class

Cosmopolitan Community Church invites young ladies and gentlemen to a etiquette class. ConnectThem is a mentoring group for preteen and teen boys and girls focusing on the areas of life skills, self-love, goal development, and goal achievements. For registration, call 773-536-3610 or visit www.cosmocommchurch.org.

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

When: Saturday, May 18th from 10:00 am to noon

Summer50 Fest

The inaugural Summer50 Fest will provide parents, teens, and youth opportunities to learn about and connect with youth programs, educational initiatives, education-based athletics, and jobs/internships available throughout the summer and beyond. Key city stakeholders and agencies, corporate and civic partners, educational institutions, and community-based organizations will be invited to host a booth/activation where they can highlight their programs and enroll families and teens on the spot. 

The Fest will feature on-site job applications and placement for teens, job readiness stations, summer programming enrollment, athletic opportunities PLUS engaging and fun clinics, pop-up events hosted by corporate partners, raffles, personal appearances, a DJ and more. Find more information at www.wards365.com/summer50-fest.

Where: United Center Atrium (1901 W. Madison)

When: Saturday, May 18th from 10:00 am to 2:00 pm

Veteran Hiring and Resource Expo

The Mayor's Office of Veteran Affairs, the VA, IDVA, National Louis University, Chicago Vet Center and others are hosting a Memorial Day Veteran Hiring and Resource Expo. Questions? Contact Lauren Schmidt at lschmidt17@nl.edu.

Where: National Louis University (122 S. Michigan Ave.)

When: Thursday, May 23rd from 10:00 am to 2:00 pm

Building Wealth and Wellness Festival

Join the Entrepreneur's Academy, the Illinois Criminal Justice Information Authority, UJIMA, and the Chicago Park District for the 2nd Summer Festival of Wealth and Wellness. This is an exciting opportunity to exhibit your products and business, connect with fellow entrepreneurs, network with potential partners, and showcase what makes your venture unique. Reserve your spot at https://entrepreneursacademy.shop/#.

Where: Mandrake Park (3858 S. Cottage Grove Ave.)

When: Saturday, June 1st from noon to 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: 131

Date: May 15th at 3:00 pm

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

2nd District CAPS Meetings

Beat: 213/215

Date: May 28th at 6:00 pm

Location: Our Lady of Africa - St. Elizabeth (44 E. 41st St.)

Beat: 221/223

Date: May 21st at 6:00 pm

Location: King Center (4314 S. Cottage Grove Ave.)

Beat: 224

Date: May 23rd at 6:00 pm

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

Beat: 231

Date: May 16th at 6:00 pm

Location: Washington Park Field House (5531 S. King Dr.)