Aldermen Dowell, Robinson, Yancy, and Taylor Host Housing Resource Fair

On October 19th, Alderman Dowell partnered with 4th Ward Alderman Lamont Robinson, 5th Ward Alderman Desmon Yancy, and 20th Ward Alderwoman Jeanette Taylor to bring information and resources to South Side residents at their Housing Resource Fair. Thank you to Congresswoman Robin Kelly, Treasurer Michael Frerichs, and the following neighborhood service organizations who participated in this successful event: Safer Foundation, HUD, First Community Mortgage, Spanish Coalition for Housing, DFSS, CHA, BACP, Chicago Urban League, Erie Neighborhood House, I-Pass, People’s Gas, Legal Aid Chicago, Take Root Chicago, Metropolitan Family Services, Ignite, Chase, CEDA, Circuit Court of Cook County, Metropolitan Tenants Organization, DCEO, Law Center for Better Housing, IDOI, ComEd, DFSS, Chicago Coalition to End Homelessness, and NHS.

At the event, guests were able to receive information from professional housing counselors on topics such as purchasing a new home, trying to fix up an existing home, guidance on landlord/tenant issues and much more!

Alderman Dowell Helps Protect Residents at a Flu/COVID-19 Vaccine Event

In October Alderman Dowell hosted her annual event Flu-COVID-19 Vaccine Clinic at the 3rd Ward Public Service Office (5046 S. State St.). Thank you to the Chicago Department of Public Health for coming to the ward to help keep people happy and healthy this winter flu season.

This was a free event, open to the public, and offered in partnership with Alderman Dowell's office. Thank you to 3rd Ward staff Allyson Allison, Lucy Macedo, George Willborn and Yvonne Green for assisting residents during the event. If you missed the flu shot clinic and would like to find another opportunity to receive these services, a calendar of CDPH Flu Shot Clinics can be found here.

Alderman Dowell Stands with Letter Carriers for New Contract

The Illinois State Association of Letter Carriers (ISALC) held eight rallies across the state in October. One was at Federal Plaza. Postal Workers have been working without a contract since May 2023. There are over 200,000 mail carriers in the United States. 

The ISALC is calling on the United States Postal Service to become more transparent in their ongoing contract negotiations, address the reduction of mail transportation from local post offices, improve delivery services to their customers, eliminate non-delivery of mail due to staffing and scheduling shortages, discuss and introduce nationwide planning, handling and processing of November 5, 2024 mail ballots, address and improve wages, benefits and safety concerns.

Thank you to Luis Rivas, President of ISALC and Elise Foster, President of Branch 11 Chicago for your fierce leadership on protecting the men and women who deliver our mail and packages rain or shine!!

Coliseum Park Update

The project to replace the fence at Coliseum Park (1466 S. Wabash Ave.) has begun! The Chicago Park District has removed the existing panels to scrape, clean, and re-powder coat them before re-installing them alongside the new taller fence panels adjacent to the condo building's parking lot. The fence posts were left on site and will be painted in the field. The entire project is estimated to be completed b the end of November. Questions can be directed to the 3rd Ward Public Service Office at Ward03@cityofchicago.org.

Fast Lane Kiosk Program

Secretary of State Alexi Giannoulias has launched the Fast-Lane DMV program, which includes 15 self-service kiosks placed around the state.

As part of the pilot program, Fast-Lane kiosks offer DMV services (vehicle registration renewals/plate decals and driver’s license renewals) inside grocery stores, including one in the 3rd Ward at Mariano's at 1615 S. Clark Street.

Fast Lane kiosks are part of the office’s goal to modernize operations and bring more services directly to Illinois communities. Most important, it provides an additional convenience for residents with busy schedules and enables them to skip a trip to the DMV.

The kiosk program comes at no cost to the state or taxpayers. The vendor charges $4.95 per transaction and a credit card processing fee (if applicable), making the cost less than most currency exchanges and vehicle emission testing sites.

You can learn more about the kiosks, the services they offer and what you need to bring by visiting www.ilsos.gov/kiosks.

Problem Business - 43rd Food & Tobacco (200 E. 43rd St.)

A hearing was held at the Department of Administrative Hearings on October 1st, resulting in a judgment being entered against 43rd Food & Tobacco in the amount of $1,605.00 for failure to visibly display the tobacco products sale to minors warning sign, failure to disclose all activities and services that are carried out at the licensed premises, five(5) violations for offering for sale merchandise that is not separated from outdated products, and two (2) violations for offering for sale outdated perishable foods and over-the-counter medications mixed with outdated items. Questions regarding these cases can be directed to the 3rd Ward Public Service Office at 773-373-9273.

Problem Business - Five One Food Mart (51 E. 51st St,)

A hearing was held at the Department of Administrative Hearings on October 1st, resulting in a judgment being entered against Five One Food Mart in the amount of $4,040.00 for offering for sale products that have marked as not for individual sale, and offering for sale merchandise that is not separated from outdated products. Questions regarding these cases can be directed to the 3rd Ward Public Service Office at 773-373-9273.

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 Bears vs. New England Patriots

Sunday, November 10th at noon

Chicago Fire vs. Green Bay Packers

Sunday, November 17th at 12:00 pm

Chicago Fire vs. Minnesota Vikings

Sunday, November 24th at 12:00 pm

Emergency Heating Repair Program

The Emergency Heating Repair Program (EHRP) will be accepting applications starting on November 1st. The EHRP program provides grants to assist income-eligible, owner-occupants of 1-to-4-unit properties with emergency heating system replacements or repairs during the winter season. Residents can register for program by calling 311 or register online here.

CEDA Heating, Electric, and Water Assistance Programs

CEDA assists income-eligible Chicago residents with heating, electric and water assistance programs. Applications for the following programs can be found at CEDAorg.net/Bills.

• Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) - Direct Vendor Payment (DVP) - This program provides a one-time benefit toward a household's heating and/or electric bills.
• Reconnection Assistance (RA) - This program provides a benefit of up to $1,500 to prevent imminent disconnection or to re-connect a household's heating and/or electric services.
• Cash Assistance (CA) - This program provides a cash benefit to eligible households whose heating utilities are included in the rent.
• People Gas Share the Warmth - This program provides a benefit of up to $200 towards the past-due balance of your Peoples Gas Bill.
• Energy Savings Kit (ESK) - This is a kit that contains a variety of energy savings products that can make your home more energy efficient and help you save money on your monthly energy bills.
• Utility Billing Relief (UBR) - This program makes water and sewer bills more affordable. Residents can receive a 50% rate reduction on water, sewer, and water-sewer tax rates and the opportunity for complete debt forgiveness. Income-eligible households are encouraged to apply even if they are not behind on their water bills.

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: Wednesday, November 6th from 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm (link to register)

Boost Your Brian and Memory

Developed by Mather Institute, Boost Your Brain and Memory is an evidence-based program designed to help you learn and practice the most promising strategies for keeping your brain healthy as you age. This program uses a unique, whole-person approach to brain fitness, providing you with healthy practices that can help you remember things better, be more organized, pay closer attention, and reduce your stress—as well as reduce your risk of dementia.

Where: King Branch Library (3436 S. King Dr.)

When: Thursday, November 7th from 1:00 pm to 2:00 pm

4th Ward Flu and COVID-19 Vaccination Event

Alderman Lamont Robinson (4th) and the Chicago Department of Public Health are happy to welcome local health care providers for a Flu and COVID-19 Vaccination event. At the event will be Friend Health to offer dental exams, NAMI to assist with mental health questions, Insight Hospital performing blood pressure checks and blood sugar testing, House of Hands offering relaxation and pain relief, Sisters Working it Out providing resources to women of color, and Illinois Action for Children to assist in finding childcare and early learning programs.

Where: King Branch Library (3436 S. King Drive)

When: Thursday, November 7th from 3:00 pm to 7:00 pm

Jazz & Percussion Concert

Are you ready to groove to the rhythm and sway to the melodies at VanderCook's Jazz and Percussion Concert 2024?! You'll be immersed in an evening of pure musical magic as talented jazz and percussion young artists take center stage, promising an unforgettable experience.

Join VanderCook for an evening of rhythm, harmony, and pure passion as we celebrate the art of jazz and percussion like never before. Admission is FREE and open to the public.

Where: VanderCook College of Music (3125 S. Federal St.)

When: Thursday, November 7th at 7:00 p.m.

2024 Chicago Winter Standdown

To honor and serve our veterans, resources, services and food for veterans who are homeless, home insecure, or in need will be provided. Bring your veteran ID or DD214 for registration. Questions, please call 708-202-5981.

Where: Northwest Side Armory (1551 N. Kedzie Ave.)

When: Friday, November 8th from 8:00 am to 4:00 pm

Expungement and Legal Clinic

CCBA Foundation and the Chicago Urban League are offering a legal clinic that will feature an expungement seminar and legal advice. All services will be free of charge to all attendees. A photo ID is required. Register to attend here.

Where: Chicago Urban League (4510 S. Michigan Ave.)

When: Saturday, November 9th from 10:00 am to 1:00 pm

Phi Beta Sigma Blood Drive

The Upsilon Sigma Chapter of Phi Beta Sigma is offering a blood drive in partnership with the Vitalant Bloodmobile. Participants must be at least 16 years old, weigh at least 110 pounds, and be in good health. Please bring your ID, eat within 2 hours of your donation, and drink plenty of fluids! Register to participate here.

Where: 4941 S. King Drive

When: Sunday, November 10th from noon to 4:30 pm

Military Cultural Competency and Suicide Prevention Training

This training is available to health care professionals, mental health providers, law enforcement officers, firefighters, social workers, educators, and any other community members who interact with the military and veteran populations. The training is designed to equip participants with cognitive and behavioral tools necessary to support those who have served, helping them maintain their mental health, strengthen their resilience and reduce the risk of suicide before reaching a crisis point. Register for the event here.

Where: Malcolm X College (1900 W. Jackson Blvd.)

When: Tuesday, November 12th from 9:00 am to 4:30 pm

9th Police District Community Conversation

Let's make a difference in our neighborhood together! Join CPD for a 9th Police District Community Conversation to create the 2025 Strategic Plan. To register, visit chicagopolice.org/convo. For more information please call 312-747-3501 or email caps.009district@chicagopolice.org.

Where: Chavez Academic Center (4747 S. Marshfield Ave.)

When: Thursday, November 14th at 6:00 pm

Napraverse

The American Napraprathic Association welcomes guests to the Napraverse to celebrate Naprapathy Month. Learn more about naprapathy courses, services and degree programs in natural pain relief. Food, vendors, giveaways, resource referrals, and treatment demos will be provided. Visit www.ncnmu.edu for more information.

Where: Insight Hospital (2525 S. Michigan Ave.)

When: Saturday, November 16th

Celebrate Kwanzaa Through Creativity with Joy Joshua

Celebrate Kwanzaa Through Creativity! Join us for a special jewelry-making workshop celebrating the spirit of Kwanzaa. Under the expert guidance of Joy Joshua, you’ll learn to craft unique jewelry

pieces using beads, raw materials, and metals, inspired by the principles of Kwanzaa. Whether you create a necklace, bracelet, or earrings, this hands-on experience will allow you to design meaningful, personalized items that reflect the values of unity, creativity, and community. A perfect way to honor Kwanzaa while crafting gifs for your loved ones!

Where: King Branch Library (3436 S. King Dr.)

When: Saturday, November 23rd from 2:00 pm to 4:00 pm

Concert at Nativity

Join VanderCook College of Music as they celebrate the 50th Anniversary of John Rutter's Gloria. They will also perform works by Runestad, Nelhybel, Joseph Bologne Chevalier de Saint-George, and Woolstenhulme as well as a few traditional carols where the audience is encouraged to sing along. 

This program will feature performances by the Concert Choir, Symphony Orchestra, Guitar Ensemble, and Collegiate Chorale. Admission is FREE and open to the public.

Where: Nativity of Our Lord Church (653 W. 37th St.)

When: Sunday, November 24th at 3:00 p.m.

ABC7 Blood Drive - Southside!

Every two seconds, someone in the U.S. needs blood! You can help meet the need for blood donations by volunteering at the ABC7 Great Chicago Blood Drive. To register, visit https://tinyurl.com/rcabc72025.

Where: Imani Village (301 E. 95th St.)

When: Thursday, January 16, 2025 from 6:00 am to 9:00 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: November 20th at 5:30 pm

Location: For location information, please email Caps.001District@chicagopolice.org or call 312-745-4381

2nd District CAPS Meetings

Beat: 213

Date: November 19th at 6:00 pm

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

Beat: 221

Date: November 12th at 6:00 pm

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

Beat: 223

Date: November 20th at 6:00 pm

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

Beat: 224

Date: November 26th at 6:00 pm

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

Beat: 231

Date: November 21st at 6:00 pm

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