Dear Neighbors,

We are still reeling from the consequences of the despicable actions of President Trump in urging an insurrection at the Capital, which led to five deaths. This mob action included the erection of gallows, destruction of property, and attacks on police.

The moral and political offensiveness of this attack is epitomized in this picture. Never before in American history has a Confederate flag been inside the US Capital. Well over 600,000 American soldiers died to prevent this symbol of slavery from flying in our Capital. CNN wrote a useful story of the flag's meaning.

Our President's instigation of this attack and his lack of personal accountability for the consequences of his behavior is shameful. I support the calls of our Congressmen Mike Quigley and Jan Schakowsky to impeach him. Never again should we tolerate or enable a President who so disgraces our nation.

General Iron closed for good on December 31, 2020. You can read about it in this Chicago Tribune article, According to its agreement with the city, General Iron has another three months to completely decommission its plant, including removing all material and equipment, and demolishing and removing all the buildings on their property.

The closing of General Iron provides us with a priceless opportunity to provide the North Side with much-needed green space. The COVID-19 pandemic has alerted us that park space is not a luxury; it is necessary for the health and well being of everyone who lives and works in Chicago.

This now former industrial site needs to be converted into an asset that benefits all of us.

That's just one reason why we need a commitment to the  North Branch Park & Preserve. The Chicago River belongs to all of us, not just for some.

We will continue to work to make this a reality in 2021.

As we have previously reported, Chicago Public Schools are beginning a slow re-opening process for the students who most need an in-person education: Pre-K and special needs children. Only those two populations will return to school this Monday, January 11, 2021. Students in K-8 grades are scheduled to return on February 1, 2021.

CPS released this detailed letter in response to concerns that have been raised about its re-opening plan. The entire reopening plan can be reviewed here.

The City expects that most all currently available COVID-19 vaccines will be used for health care workers and residents of long-term care facilities. If you work in an outpatient setting, the city asks that one representative from your clinic/facility (e.g., the clinic administrator or business owner) complete this survey so that appointments can be made for all staff.

Please read this article from Block Club for more information. Chicago Department of Public Health Commissioner Dr. Alison Arwady expects that vaccination of health care workers and nursing home residents to take most of January and February, after which new supplies of the the vaccines will then be administered to the next group of individuals, which include essential workers and people over age 75. If this changes we will inform you immediately.

Meanwhile, our area has one of the highest rates of vaccination at this early time, which is not surprising given the large number of doctors and other health care professionals and workers who live in our area.

Applications are taken on a first-come, first-served basis. The number of participants is based on availability of funds. The program typically reaches capacity quickly, so you are encouraged to apply early on January 11. You must apply again in 2021 if you wish to be considered, even if you applied last year. Applications will only be accepted through the City’s 311 system by calling 311 or through the Chi 311 website. The property owner’s contact information and the property address are required at the time of request.

Visit here for more information about the program.

Your current yellow residential guest parking passes expired on December 31, 2020. To make sure you don't get a ticket, stay safe, and avoid unnecessary contact, please purchase parking passes and city stickers online right now.

Buying City Stickers and Parking Passes on-line is convenient and you can order 24 hours a day at ezbuy.chicityclerk.com.

You can learn how to order online by using our Guest Parking Passes 101 guide.

For other great holiday recycling tips, click here.

The 18th District cover the part of our Ward that is south of Fullerton Ave. You can find your beat on our website. Please email CAPS018@chicagopolice.org for the link.

The CAPS meeting for the 19th District Beat 1932 usually held at the New Life Church will be held virtually, on Monday, January 11th at 7:00 p.m. Please email wrightwoodneighbors@gmail.com for the link.

Travel-size items needed include: shampoo, conditioner, soap, shower gel, deodorant, and body lotion.

With the new year upon us, supporting our local businesses is as important as ever; please shop and dine locally:

Brown Bag Seafood (new!)

Daily Harvest (new!)

French Quiche (new!)

Kaathis Indian Street Food (new!)

King Chicago Indian Cuisine (new!)

Kizami Sushi (new!)

Lakefront (in Theater on the Lake)

Maison Parisienne - new!

Stray Hen Cafe (new!)

Squeez Juice Bar (new!)

X'ian Dynasty Cuisine (new!)

Our 43rd Ward Service Office, and all city offices, will be closed on Monday, January 18, 2021 in observance of the Martin Luther King Jr. Federal Holiday. The office will reopen on Tuesday, January 19, 2021 at 9 a.m.

2021 has gotten off to a rocky start. Perhaps it's some comfort that here at home, we are all still going about our daily lives with its struggles, challenges and triumphs. Wear a mask, be safe, and watch out for your neighbors,