Two Calls for Action:
For Parks and Kids
Dear Neighbors,

The most significant development of our generation, the redevelopment of the Clybourn Corridor Planned Manufacturing District, is moving toward final conception in the City's North Branch Industrial Corridor Modernization effort.  As I have previously written, this moment represents a once-in-a-lifetime chance to create much needed public recreational space for residents. Unfortunately, to date, there is no commitment yet to include meaningful park space in a redefined PMD. We must not waste this opportunity.

The Department of Planning and Development will be hosting one of the last North Branch Industrial Corridor Modernization meetings on  Tuesday, December 13th at 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM at UI Labs, 1415 N Cherry Avenue

You are strongly encouraged to attend and express your support for public recreational space. If you or your family is involved in any type of sports, please contact me with your opinion of the space needs of your leagues.  

An RSVP is required for this meeting due to facility requirements. Please click here to register.

Please contact  [email protected]  with any questions.

Governor Rauner Vetoes School Funding

Chicago Public Schools CEO Forrest Claypool and Chief Education Officer Janice Jackson have written to CPS supporters concerning the Governor Rauner's recent veto to the CPS funding bill.


We have been fighting for fair funding for CPS for years.  It is critical to pass the bill, which previously received support from the City, unions, and the Governor.

Open House Presentation of the Natural Playscape at the North Pond Nature Sanctuary

Join the Lincoln Park Conservancy and the Chicago Park District for an open house presentation regarding the proposed natural playscape at the North Pond Nature Sanctuary on  Tuesday, December 13th between 5:30 PM - 7:00 PM with a  formal presentation beginning at 6:00 PM  at The Cabrini Shrine - Lower Level Gathering Space, 2520 N. Lakeview Avenue. 

Learn how this interactive playscape engages children of all ages  and abilities in a safe, fun environment reflecting the natural wonders of  the North Pond Nature Sanctuary. Stop in during the  open house to provide feedback and help refine the design.

Join Me for Holiday Meet and Treats

Let's celebrate the holidays once again by meeting up at some great neighborhood spots. On Monday, December 12th from 5:00 PM to 6:00 PM get a sweet holiday treat and a special neighborhood discount on all purchases at Molly's Cupcakes, 2500 N. Clark Street.

Future Meet and Treats:
  • Berco's Popcorn, 810 W. Armitage AvenueTuesday, December 20th from  3:00 PM to 4:00 PM
  • Floriole Cafe, 1220 W. Webster Avenue; Wednesday, December 21st from 3:00 PM to 4:00 PM
  • Twisted Baker, 2475 N. Lincoln AveWednesday, December 21st  from 5:00 PM to 6:00 PM

Groundbreaking for Theatre on the Lake

Breaking ground with Mayor Rahm Emanuel, Chicago Park District Superintendent Michael P. Kelly and Meghan Beals of Chicago Dramatists
I was honored to join Mayor Emanuel, Chicago Park District  Superintendent Michael P. Kelly, and members of the theater community on Monday to break ground on the Theater on the Lake year-round theater and restaurant, located at Fullerton Avenue and Lake Shore Drive.

Theater on the Lake's new redesign preserves the landmarked structure while transforming it into a multi-use, year-round venue.  The building will be divided into three sections: a new 330-seat main theater, two-adjacent event spaces with access to a lakefront terrace, and a public restaurant which includes a semicircular outdoor patio with a breathtaking vista of the city skyline.

Culture is the #1 business of Lincoln Park, and this venue will be a valuable addition to our neighborhood. DNAinfo covered the story.

Renovations are expected to be completed in the summer of 2017.
Chicago Property Tax Rebate Application Deadline Extended

There is still time to apply for your property tax rebate from the City of Chicago. The City has extended the deadline to apply in person to Friday, December 30th. Eligible Chicago homeowners can apply for the  City of Chicago Property Tax Rebate   at any of these  26 neighborhood locations ,   including City Hall. 

Homeowners must apply for the rebate in person. Review this previous newsletter  for further information  and visit the city's webpage on the Chicago Property Tax Rebate to see if you qualify. 

The Stock Room Pop-Up Shop

The Stock Room launches its first pop-up shop in Lincoln Park from December 9th-12th. It will be a shopping destination for unique and finely-crafted ceramics, printed ephemera, textiles, apparel, and holiday gifts. The Stock Room will be located at 1011 W. Armitage Avenue and will be open Friday and Saturday, December 9th and 10th, from 10:00 AM to 7:00 PM and Sunday, December 11th, from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM. 

Click here for more information on the shop and designers who will be showcased.

Holiday Concert at Lincoln Park Branch Library

Celebrate the Holidays with Lincoln Park Branch Library on Saturday, December 10th at 2:00 PM. Come out and hear a concert featuring student ensembles from Lincoln Park High School.

Seminar on Domestic Violence Against Seniors

Join the Circuit Court of Cook County Elder Justice Center (CCEJC) on  Tuesday, December 13th from noon to 1:30 PM  for a seminar discussion on "Domestic Violence Against Seniors: Misuse of Power and Control"

The discussion will cover the court process for obtaining orders of protection and legal protections and resources for survivors of domestic violence. 

The seminar will be held at the Daley Center, 50 W. Washington Street, in Courtroom 2005, on the 20th Floor. Call the CCEJC at (312) 603-9233 to reserve your seat.

18th  District Explorer Scouts Holiday Food Drive

The 18th District Explorer Scouts are asking for your help. Through Thursday, December 15th bring non-perishable food items to the 18th District Chicago Police Department Community Policing Office at 1160 N Larrabee Street for the annual Holiday Food Drive

For further information contact: Officer Mary Kay Ferguson at 312-742-5778.

Weekend Happenings

Looking for fun things to do this weekend? Check out the  weekend guide here  for Thursday, December 8th through Sunday, December 11th.

Need some help finishing your holiday to-do list? Here are some gift giving ideas to make your holiday season a little easier.

Happy Holidays,

Michele Signature

Michele Smith
Alderman, 43rd Ward 


43rd Ward Office Hours: M 9 AM - 7 PM, T-F 9 AM - 6 PM 
 2523 N Halsted | 773-348-9500| [email protected]| www.ward43.org
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