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• LETTER FROM THE PRESIDENT •


December 19, 2023


Season’s Greetings LCA Friends and Neighbors,


As we find ourselves immersed in the magic of the season, with twinkling lights adorning the streets and crisp winter air filling our lungs, it's hard not to feel a sense of joy and warmth in our close-knit community. Our neighborhood truly shines during this time of year, and it's heartening to witness the happiness that permeates through our homes and the smiling faces of our fellow neighbors.


It was wonderful to see so many of you earlier this month at the Oz Park Holiday Tree Lighting Ceremony, celebrating the sixth year of this beloved tradition… and this past weekend, caroling through the streets of Lincoln Park and the Old Town… I’m not sure Norman Rockwell could paint a prettier picture.


Unfortunately, while many of us gather with loved ones and revel in the holiday spirit, there are those among us who may be facing personal challenges, feeling a sense of loneliness, or dealing with hardships that cast shadows on their celebrations.


In the spirit of true community, let us all take a moment to extend our thoughts and offer support to those who may be going through a difficult time. Whether it's a friendly smile, a thoughtful gesture, or a simple invitation to join in the festivities, let's reach out to our neighbors who might be feeling alone or struggling. Small acts of kindness can make a significant impact, and together, we can help ensure that everyone in our community feels the warmth and kinship that this time of year is meant to bring.


Happy Holidays From the Heart,

Erik Heitman

President, Lincoln Central Association

• Recent LCA News •

You're Invited to the LCA Annual Meeting

LCA Annual Meeting

Marquee Lounge, 1973 N Halsted St.

Wednesday, January 24, 2024

6:30 – 8:30 p.m.

 

Please save the date! LCA will be hosting our Annual Meeting on Wednesday, January 24 at Marquee Lounge from 6:30 – 8:30 p.m. All are invited to this free event where you will learn more about LCA and our neighborhood. Drinks and appetizers will be served.

 

We encourage all Lincoln Central Association members and community members to attend this fun, social and informational event!

 

Lincoln Central Association Board Election

Each year at the Annual Meeting, an election is held to fill seats on the organization's Board of Directors which are open due to term expiration, or otherwise. The procedures for the election of Board members are outlined in the organization's bylaws on our website here.

 

LCA's Nominating Committee make recommendations each year on the selection of Board members. This year's Nominating Committee has recommended the following individual for election to LCA's Board. Pursuant to LCA's bylaws, the Nominating Committee's slate will be elected by acclimation at the meeting as the number of Board member applications submitted to the Nominating Committee does not exceed the number of Board seats that will be vacant as of the Annual Meeting.

 

LCA Board Nominee: Phil Skowron

Phil Skowron is a 10+ year resident of Lincoln Park, and, along with his wife and two kids, is a very active member of his community. Phil grew up in the suburbs of Chicago and graduated from Temple University in Philadelphia. Chicago has been home ever since.   

 

Phil is a veteran realtor with an exceptional reputation. His journey in real estate began with a deep love for architecture and urban living. Throughout his 15+ year career, clients consistently commend his professionalism, responsiveness, and honesty in reviews. Phil's comprehensive knowledge of the Chicago market, combined with his far-reaching network, has resulted in Phil becoming one of the city's most successful and respected real estate brokers. He has been recognized as one of the top 50 brokers in sales productivity by the Chicago Association of REALTORS®. He has been quoted in Crains, WGN, The Wall Street Journal, Fox News, The Washington Post, and Chicago Magazine, to name a few. Phil has received numerous industry awards and recorded nearly $1 billion in career sales volume. 

 

During his free time Phil enjoys coaching his kid’s sports, golfing, and enjoying the local parks, beaches, and the zoo with his family.   

Zoning Update: DePaul Proposed Development

Retraction:  In our December newsletter, we mis-reported that Sheffield Neighborhood Association (SNA) voted to object to DePaul University basketball practice facility proposal.  SNA is currently in discussion with the University regarding its proposal and will make its decision when all community concerns have been addressed.


Corrected Article:

At its last meeting, Lincoln Central Association’s board voted unanimously to object to proposed construction of a DePaul University basketball practice facility on the 2300 block of North Sheffield Avenue, because it would destroy four 19th century row houses.


We understand De Paul’s need for such a facility, as they must attract and retain student athletes. Could DePaul consider other parcels on or near its campus for such construction? Could the gym on Sheffield Avenue be repurposed? 


When we lose 19th century structures, we lose the historic beauty that defines Lincoln Park. Once gone, we never get these buildings back. They’re built more solidly than new construction, with three-brick thick walls, timber from old-growth Midwest forests, unique masonry facades. Too, we lose affordable housing for families and students. 


We ask DePaul to be good neighbors. We look forward to ongoing discussion of this proposed construction. 

18th District Police Station Toy Drive Extended Until Tonight!

The 18th District Police Station is collecting toys for our neighborhood youth, as well as coats, hats, gloves, scarves and more! See the flyer below, however, they have extended the collection deadline until tonight!

Help New Community Members Celebrate 12 Warm & Happy Days of Christmas

Our friends at Sheffield Neighborhood Association are working to help our new community members feel welcome this holiday season and put together 12 days of donations!


14th Deodorant - $14.38

15th - Diapers - $28.22

16th - Toothbrushes - $12.99

17th - Scarves - $24.99

18th - Hats - $23.99

19th - Winter Boots - $46.99

20th- Gloves - $7.99

21st - Kid's Coat - $26.99

22nd - Boy's Coat - $36.99

23rd - Women's Coat - $46.99

24th - Men's Coat - 39.99

25th - Pediasure - $40.83


View the full wish list here. When you click on an item, it will send you to Amazon. Then simply add to cart, then in the cart, select "Immigrant Rapid Response's Gift Registry Address," and complete the purchase.


If you are able, we encourage you to participate in this wonderful giving event.

18th Police District Releases Results of 2024 Budget Survey

Earlier this week, the 18th Police District Council shared the results of the survey they conducted about the 2024 Chicago Police Budget.


More than 2,000 people took the survey. Here are a few of the key findings:

  • 97%+ of residents want a strong police presence in our neighborhoods,
  • 97%+ want increased staffing to improve response times to answer 911 calls
  • 92% want consistent police officers so they know our neighborhoods. 


Learn more in the full letter to the mayor here.


Please consider attending a brief Zoom meeting on January 9th at noon to learn about different options to become involved in crime reduction efforts. Over the next year, the Police District Council is launching 7 Neighborhood Task Forces, each with a different focus. They hope residents find one (or more) task forces to join. 


Register here for the brief informational meeting on your options to participate in building public safety on January 9th Zoom at noon.

Thank You LCA Sponsors!

LCA is dedicated to inspiring people to join together for the social, cultural, and physical enrichment of our neighborhood, and our local businesses are a critical part of that! LCA is honored to work with local businesses to improve our neighborhood and promote their business.

 

Thank You to Our Sponsors:

• Neighborhood News •

Vanille Releases Their Holiday Menu

LCA partner, Vanille Patisserie has released their Christmas treats menu! See below!

Calling For Artists to Apply for the 2024 Old Town Art Fair

The Old Town Art Fair (OTAF) is considered one of the top outdoor fine art shows in the nation. Now in its 74th year, the fair will once again line the streets of the historic Old Town Triangle neighborhood on Chicago’s near north side, amid charming homes, leafy parkways, and welcoming neighbors.


This is a show for artists and art buyers alike -- our art patrons are considered to be discerning, art-educated, and loyal art buyers. We continue to place a strong emphasis on increasing our marketing profile to bring more buyers to you.


The volunteer-led Old Town Art Fair is committed to providing the highest quality experience possible for both our artists and our patrons. The Fair is produced by the Old Town Triangle Association (OTTA), a nonprofit neighborhood organization whose Director also serves as staff support for the Fair. Fair proceeds go to support the Menomonee Boys and Girls Club, our local schools, community organizations, neighborhood improvements, and the activities and operations of the Triangle Association.


OTTA invites artists to apply for one of their highly coveted artist spots! For more information, including requirements and the application page, click here.

Lincoln Common Yuletide Stampede Runs Through Dec. 23

Lincoln Common is hosting Yuletide Stampede this holiday season! Pick up a card from Lincoln Common retailers, then when you visit the retailers, don’t forget to get stamped! Visit 5 or more retailers between December 7th -23rd to enter your card into the raffle.

 

More information and raffle details are available here.

From the Heart is an award-winning newsletter published by Lincoln Central Association.

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