third ward newsletter third ward update alderman dowell hosts town hall at arts incubator on april...

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Dear Third Ward Resident, The month of April was full of community events - as you will read - and I would like to take this opportunity to highlight one here. A BIG thank you to everyone who participated in the April 16th Citywide Clean and Green Day: Catholic Charities, Firman Community Services, the 46th and Vincennes Block Club, Friends of 51st Street, Park Boulevard 2A, Bronzeville Abundance Campaign, Vision House, Progressive Baptist Church, 5300 S. Wallace Block Cub, Burnham Condo Association, 51st Street Business Association, Bronzeville Retail Initiative, Bronzeville Neighborhood Collaborative, Oakwood Boulevard Neighborhood Association, and the GAP Community Organization. Neighborhood beautification is one of the things my office gets contacted about most frequently, and I really do appreciate all of the residents who stepped up on the 16th to make our ward a cleaner and more beautiful place. Additionally, I would like to say a fond farewell and thank you to former Mollison Elementary School Principal Kimberly Henderson, who is moving on to lead another school outside of the ward. Principal Henderson is a fantastic educator and I am grateful for her service to the school and to the community. Join me in wishing Principal Henderson best of luck with her new school! And let's not forget to give a warm welcome to Joyce Bristow the new principal for Mollison Elementary. Last, I am proud to announce that at the April 13th Chicago City Council Meeting, I was appointed Chairman of the Committee on Human Relations. This is quite the honor and I thank my colleagues and the mayor for trusting in my leadership for this coveted post. The Committee on Human Relations has jurisdiction over all matters relating to human rights and the Commission on Human Relations, and all matters generally affecting veterans of the Armed Forces of the United States of America. I look forward to working with Human Relations Commission Chairman and Commissioner Mona Noriega, my City Council colleagues, Chicago residents and local organizations to identify and address the important issues within the committee's jurisdiction. As always, if there are any issues my office can help you with, please don't hesitate to contact me anytime at 773-373-9273 or at [email protected]. Sincerely, Pat Dowell Alderman, 3rd Ward Third Ward Newsletter May 2016 In This Issue Third Ward Update 2-7 Events in and Around the Ward 8-9 Important Announcements 10-11 Employment and Training 12 May Caps 13

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Dear Third Ward Resident, The month of April was full of community events - as you will read - and I would like to take this opportunity to highlight one here. A BIG thank you to everyone who participated in the April 16th Citywide Clean and Green Day: Catholic Charities, Firman Community Services, the 46th and Vincennes Block Club, Friends of 51st Street, Park Boulevard 2A, Bronzeville Abundance Campaign, Vision House, Progressive Baptist Church, 5300 S. Wallace Block Cub, Burnham Condo Association, 51st Street Business Association, Bronzeville Retail Initiative, Bronzeville Neighborhood Collaborative, Oakwood Boulevard Neighborhood Association, and the GAP Community Organization. Neighborhood beautification is one of the things my office gets contacted about most frequently, and I really do appreciate all of the residents who stepped up on the 16th to make our ward a cleaner and more beautiful place. Additionally, I would like to say a fond farewell and thank you to former Mollison Elementary School Principal Kimberly Henderson, who is moving on to lead another school outside of the ward. Principal Henderson is a fantastic educator and I am grateful for her service to the school and to the community. Join me in wishing Principal Henderson best of luck with her new school! And let's not forget to give a warm welcome to Joyce Bristow the new principal for Mollison Elementary. Last, I am proud to announce that at the April 13th Chicago City Council Meeting, I was appointed Chairman of the Committee on Human Relations. This is quite the honor and I thank my colleagues and the mayor for trusting in my leadership for this coveted post. The Committee on Human Relations has jurisdiction over all matters relating to human rights and the Commission on Human Relations, and all matters generally affecting veterans of the Armed Forces of the United States of America. I look forward to working with Human Relations Commission Chairman and Commissioner Mona Noriega, my City Council colleagues, Chicago residents and local organizations to identify and address the important issues within the committee's jurisdiction. As always, if there are any issues my office can help you with, please don't hesitate to contact me anytime at 773-373-9273 or at [email protected]. Sincerely,

Pat Dowell Alderman, 3rd Ward

Third Ward Newsletter

May 2016

In This Issue

Third Ward Update 2-7

Events in and Around the Ward 8-9

Important Announcements 10-11

Employment and Training 12

May Caps 13

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Third Ward Update

Alderman Dowell Hosts Town Hall at Arts Incubator On April 6th Alderman Pat Dowell welcomed the University of Chicago, Mercy Housing, the Independent Police Review Authority, the Department of Planning and Development and the Chicago Park District to a 3rd Ward Town Hall meeting at the Washington Park Arts Incubator (301 E. Garfield Blvd.). Thank you to all who presented and attended in this event. At the Town Hall meeting, residents were able to discuss important topics like public safety with the head of the Independent Police Review Authority as well as hear about potential new developments in the 3rd Ward including: the newly remodeled Rosenwald Courts Apartments, the proposed Washington Park Arts Block and a mid-rise multi-unit apartment building with first floor retail planned for the corner of 31st St. and Michigan Avenue. Last, representatives from the City were on hand to discuss a new market rate housing project planned for Bronzeville and introduce numerous park expansion and redevelopment projects planned across the 3rd Ward. If you are interested in the new market rate housing project in Bronzeville called the "Parade of Homes," the full request for qualifications (RFQ) is now available on the Department of Planning and Development's website. The Department of Planning will evaluate RFQ respondents based on their ability to efficiently build and sell quality single-family homes in an urban market. Responses are due by May 31, 2016. If you would like more information about the Town Hall meeting, please visit www.dowellforthirdward.com to review the slides presented at the event.

Daystar School Hosts 3rd Ward Town Hall Meeting On April 7th Alderman Dowell hosted a Town Hall meeting at Daystar School (1550 S. State St.). Thank you to the Daystar School staff, the owners of Overflow Coffee and all the residents who attended for making this meeting a success. The meeting featured an informative question and answer session with 1st District Police Commander Robert Klich who addressed some of the public safety concerns of the community. After Commander Klich, the residents heard from Friends of the Parks in regards to the ongoing Lucas Museum lawsuit, then a series of

developers presented proposed projects for 1411 S. Michigan Avenue and 14th St. & Wabash Avenue. The evening concluded with a short introduction to a new business in the ward, Baderbrau Brewing (2515 S. Wabash Ave). All of the presentations from the Town Hall meeting are available on Alderman Dowell's website at www.dowellforthirdward.com.

Alderman Dowell Addresses Residents at Housing Fair In order to assist residents with their housing related questions and issues, and to improve homeownership in the ward, Alderman Dowell hosted a 3rd Ward Housing Fair on April 16th at Phillips High School. Participants at the housing fair were able to hear from mortgage, real estate and legal experts on how to purchase a home, how to stay in your home, and what protections you have as a tenant. After the presentation portion of the event, guests were invited to speak directly with housing experts one-on-one to get their

housing issues resolved. Thank you to all the residents who attended the event and thank you to the following housing experts who were present at the event: Neighborhood Housing Services, Partners In Community Building, The Property Law Group, Austin Jarret Law Group, Ronald Nolen - Attorney at Law, Paul Ochmanek - Attorney at Law, Chicago Homes Realty Group, Ware Realty, Excellence Home Inspectors, Fifth Third Bank, The Federal Savings Bank, Associated Bank, and Mercy Housing Association.

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Alderman Dowell Attends Meeting with Museum Park Condominium Residents Alderman Dowell continues to meet with community groups and residents, this time meeting with a group of Museum Park Condominium residents in their building at 1629 s. Prairie Ave. These meetings are a great opportunity for residents to meet and talk with the Alderman in a small-group setting. At this meeting the Alderman and Museum Park residents discussed issues related to Metra, Soldier Field /lakefront events, traffic in the area, neighborhood cleanliness as well as a host of other issues important to building residents. Alderman Dowell was also joined by a representative from the Chicago Park District to address the impact on residents of the numerous Grant Park, Soldier Field and lakefront events. Alderman Dowell attends many community events throughout the ward. If you would like to host Alderman Dowell at your organization's next meeting, please contact the 3rd Ward Office with a specific date and time and items to discuss at [email protected].

Williams Prep Students Make it to State History Fair Congratulations to Raven Galloway and Tierra Mason of Williams Preparatory School of Medicine at DuSable for making it to the state competition for the State History Fair! Raven presented on Richard Wright and Native Son, while Tierra chose Voices of the Mad. The History Fair is a program where students choose their own topic based on what is important to them as long as its related to Chicago or Illinois History. Students go to places outside of school to do research with actual sources and then choose how to present their historical arguments though real projects just as actual historians do: writing papers, producing a play or documentary, or building a website or exhibit. Students then compete in public contests and have the opportunity to advance to higher levels of competition in Springfield and Washington, D.C. where they can win cash prizes or secure college scholarships.

Wells Prep Community Action Day Alderman Dowell and the students of Ida B. Wells Preparatory Academy participated in a Community Action Day focusing on the envi-ronment. Students learned about recycling, the importance of not litter-ing and how their actions affect the environment. Wells Prep is an IB candidate elementary school with strong partnerships in the community. April's Community Action Day provided students the opportunity to take their learning out of the class-room and experience the impact they can have on the environment by working together.

23rd Street Streetscape Beginning in spring 2016, 23rd St. between State St. and Indiana Ave. will be improved as the City renovates the street with infrastructure upgrades and streetscape elements. These improvements are part of a comprehensive streetscaping project designed by the City of Chicago Department of Transportation in close cooperation with community representatives and Alderman Dowell. The project will consist of numerous improvements including: roadway resurfacing, burial of overhead ComEd lines, new sidewalks, curb and gutter, street lighting with LED white lights, ADA ramps and crosswalks, permeable pavers and parkway trees. Throughout construction 23rd St. will remain open but parking will not be allowed in the area of active construction. In addition, there will be periodic parking restrictions on some side streets. The project is scheduled to be complete in winter 2016.

Third Ward Update (Continued)

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Tree Planting, New Concrete and Pavers for 47th Street Starting in early May, the contractors for the 47th Street Streetscape (47th St. from State St. to Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Drive) will begin installing new trees and new concrete along 47th St. as well as decorative pavers for the 47th St. CTA station, weather permitting. These trees, new concrete and decorative pavers will be a welcome addition to area beautifying the busy commercial corridor. The contractor will plant a mix of Honey Locus, Kentucky Coffee and Patriot Elm trees, which are resistant to Dutch Elm Disease.

9th District Peace March Alderman Pat Dowell was joined by the newly installed Chicago Police Superintendent Eddie Johnson, Mayor Rahm Emanuel and other civic and community leaders for a peace march in the 9th District. The event was highlighted by a renewed call for better public safety efforts in neighborhoods plagued by violence. Additionally, the march engaged dozens of local residents who are not only affected by ongoing violence, but in partnership with their local police district, can play a crucial role in helping keep our neighborhoods safe.

AMC Center Chicago Set for Old McCorkle Elementary The new AMC Center will be a community service space led by the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community for the benefit of all people in Bronzeville, regardless of faith, color or creed. The community center is planned for the former McCorkle Elementary school building at 44th and State Streets and will deliver resources and services to foster peace though service to the community. The AMC Center will be built on three main principals: social service, community dialogue and neighborhood revitalization. The Ahmadiyya Muslim Community is a dynamic, reformist and fast-growing international revival movement within Islam founded in 1889. The AMC community has been a longstanding member of the Bronzeville neighborhood ever since they founded their first US mosque on 44th St. and Wabash Avenue.

Comcast Cares Visits Woodson Elementary Comcast Cares Day is a celebration of service and has become the nation's largest single-day corporate volunteer effort bringing employees, families, friends and community partners together for a common purpose and mis-sion. Over the past 15 years Comcast volunteers in the Greater Chicago Region have participated in 624 projects, with 59,217 volunteers donating over 296,085 total volunteer hours. This April, Comcast Cares visited Carter G. Woodson Elementary School (4414 S. Evans) for a day of service. During the event, volunteers helped repaint the walls, landscape the exterior and beautify the classrooms.

Comcast also donated $25,000 to Woodson Elementary as a further show of support for the school and the community.

3rd Ward An "Operation Help a Hero" Collection Site Alderman Dowell is partnering with Alderman Matt O'Shea (19th), the Office of Veteran's Affairs, Chicago Park District, and Military Outreach USA on a citywide effort to collect household items for Veterans transitioning out of homelessness. Currently, there are several hundred homeless veterans in Chicago. When a veteran leaves a shelter or transitional housing and moves to a permanent residence, they often do not have the basic items needed to setup a home. These are things that you and I take for granted, but the men and women who bravely fought to defend our freedom often go without. Throughout the month of June, the 3rd Ward will be collecting household items to support our vets as they move into permanent homes. Please drop off any personal hygiene, kitchen and cleaning, or bathroom items to the ward office at 5046 S. State St.

Third Ward Update (Continued)

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New Water Main in S. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Dr. - E. 53rd St. to E. Garfield Blvd. Alderman Dowell and the Department of Water Management (DWM) are pleased to announce the installation of 1,506 feet of new 16-inch water main in S. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Drive from E. 53rd St. to E. Garfield Blvd. Work is scheduled to begin in late-April 2016, weather permitting. When DWM is working in the street, they may close or limit it to traffic for safety reasons, but you will always be able to reach your home or business. Outside of working hours, a travel lane will be left open for local traffic only. DWM will post the work area for "No Parking" as needed during work hours (generally 7am-4pm). Parking outside of those hours will be allowed, but cars will need to be moved by the start of the next workday. DWM will try to preserve as much parking space as possible. DWM knows that construction always involves inconveniences and noise. They will do everything possible to maintain your quality of life throughout these projects. Should you have any questions or concerns please call 311 or the Department of Water Management at 312-744-6635.

3rd Ward Park Improvements are Underway Hadiya Pendleton, Aspen, Birch, Metcalfe and Poplar Parks in the 3rd Ward are receiving enhancements and new equipment. Construction is underway at each park. Construction on each project is scheduled to be completed in 2016. For more information on the park improvements and individual project timelines for each park, contact the 3rd Ward

Public Service Office at 773-373-9273.

Third Ward Update (Continued)

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New City of Chicago Tobacco Regulations On March 16, 2016 the City Council of the City of Chicago issued new tobacco regulations effective July 1, 2016. The Department of Business Affairs and Consumer Protection will conduct workshops on tobacco regulation compliance on May 18th at 10:00 am at 2350 W. Ogden if you are interested in learning about these changes. Citations for violations of the new ordinance will be issued beginning July 1, 2016. Under the new ordinance, the sale of tobacco products and accessories to people under the age of 21 is prohibited. Retail employees age 18 and older may still sell tobacco products. All tobacco products must be sold in their original factory-wrapped packaging except for cigars and pipe tobacco. Taxes imposed on "Other Tobacco Products" (OTP) including cigars, pipe tobacco, smokeless tobacco and smoking tobacco take effect July 1, 2016 as follows:

$1.80 per ounce of smoking tobacco

$0.60 per ounce of pipe tobacco

$0.20 per little cigar

$0.20 per large cigar Beginning October 10, 2016 all coupons and other discounts on tobacco products are banned. The 3rd violation of this section in a 24-month period subjects the licensee to revocation or non-renewal of license. If the new OTP tax is struck down, a set of minimum price floors for tobacco products will be imposed and a minimum package size of 10 little cigars will go into effect. For more information on these new regulations please go to www.cityofchicago.org/bacp.

March 2016 Streets and Sanitation Requests

Fast-Track Demolition of Vacant Buildings in High-Crime Police Districts in Full Force Announced in February 2016, the fast-track demolition of vacant buildings in high-crime areas is moving full-speed ahead. This important targeted initiative stops criminals from using these buildings as centers for illegal activity and eliminates unsafe and deteriorating buildings from our city neighborhoods. Buildings torn down through this program meet a number of factors that warrant demolition: they are located on a block with documented criminal activity; the buildings' owner is absent or not taking responsibility; and the structures are unsound and are marked by years of deterioration beyond repair. The city has demolished 60 buildings since the program announcement.

Third Ward Update (Continued)

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New City Forfeiture Program In its ongoing effort to combat the problems of criminal activity and blight associated with vacant and abandoned nuisance buildings, the city of Chicago continues to aggressively prosecute the owners of those properties in the Circuit Court of Cook County. As a result, the City of Chicago has obtained court orders to demolish hundreds of properties located throughout the city. A list of those properties currently slated for demolition is listed on the Department of Building's website. Forfeiture is a legal remedy, available pursuant to Section 13-12-145 of the Chicago Municipal Code, which allows the City to file a petition in the Circuit Court of Cook County based on dangerous and hazardous conditions that have not been addressed and request that property be forfeited to a third party. The goal of forfeiture is the abatement of blight associated with these nuisance buildings, while preserving viable housing stock whenever possible. The forfeiture process is open to all qualified applicants, and private citizens are encouraged to participate. The cost of obtaining a property through forfeiture is essentially the cost of the delinquent taxes plus the cost of rehabilitating or demolishing the building in accordance with the City's Building Code. Therefore, obtaining a property through forfeiture could be an affordable option for private citizens, developers, and first time home buyers.

Internet Essentials Zone in Fuller Park Internet Essentials from Comcast is the nation's largest and most comprehensive broadband adoption program. Each year since 2011 when the program was created, more and more partnerships are formed to help spread the Internet Essentials program. On April 12th, Comcast announced the South Lake Internet Essentials Learning Zone which includes the Fuller Park community. The Internet Essentials Learning South Lake Zone offers a resource network for residents in the community. Through a partnership with the Fuller Park CDC, residents will gain access to: digital literacy training, public computing, indoor Wi-Fu access points around the neighborhood and more. For more information about this program please contact the Fuller Park CDC at 773-624-8686.

Sign Permit Update Since last summer, the city of Chicago has implemented and/or started the process towards implementing a series of permit reforms to improve and modernize the city permit process. One of these reforms includes a 100% online sign permit application process, streamlining the current requirement of submitting both online and hard copy applications. We are working very hard to make this happen as soon as possible. In the interim, we have consolidated the number of city reviews from five reviews to three reviews, which we expect will reduce the time to permit by approximately one week. The sign permit application process is essentially the same. As a reminder, step-by-step instructions are included below:

Complete the online sign application and the detailed hard copy application Submit the hard copy application to Mark Izzo, Department of Buildings (DOB), City Hall, Room 906. NOTE: All permit applications must begin at DOB. If you submit your application to another department, i.e. Zoning or Business Affairs and Consumer Protection (BACP), it may cause a delay in the sign permit application process.

Upon receipt of hard copy application, DOB will enter into system and route to BACP for public way review and approval.

Once approved by BACP, the application will be routed to Zoning for review and approval. After approvals are received from BACP and Zoning, DOB conducts a review, issues any corrections, and ultimately issues the permit. DOB has also provided Mark Izzo with more assistance in the data entry of sign applications, which should further streamline the process.

Problem Business: The Game (4310-14 S. Prairie Avenue) As of April 11, 2016 The Game, located at 4310-14 S. Prairie Avenue has closed and voluntarily surrendered all licenses. The location will continue to be monitored periodically. If you have any questions about the closure please call 312-744

-6060 .

Third Ward Update (Continued)

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Events in and Around the Ward Maxwell Street Summer Season Kickoff Join the Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events for Reggaetón/Banda musicians and performers, DJs and children activities. Maxwell Street Market (800 S. Desplaines St.) is open year round on Sundays, 7am-3pm. The Market offers an eclectic mix of merchandise -- from tools to tires, fresh produce, furniture, clothing, rare finds and collectibles -- and some of the best Mexican/Latin street food in Chicago. Limited FREE parking is available on Desplaines from Harrison to Polk, and on Desplaines from Taylor to Roosevelt. The Market is also located near CTA bus and "L" lines; plan your trip at transitchicago.com.

Where: Maxwell Street Market (800 S. Desplaines) When: Sunday, May 1st, 7:00 am to 3:00 pm

South Loop Community Blood Drive The 1st District Police Department is hosting a community blood drive. Donate a pint of blood and you'll get a certificate for a free pint of Baskin Robbins ice cream. Appointments preferred, walk-ins welcome. If you are donating, please remember to drink extra water and eat iron-rich foods. For qualification questions or to schedule your appointment please call 1-800-7TO-GIVE or visit www.heartlandbc.org.

Where: 1st District Police Station (1718 S. State St.) When: Thursday, May 5th from 1:00 pm to 6:30 pm

Aging at Home: Safety and Support Systems The Circuit Court of Cook County's Elder Justice Center, as part of their Senior Enrichment Seminar Series, presents an event entitled "Aging at Home: Safety and Support Systems." This seminar will feature representatives from the Chicago Police Department, the Chicago Fire Department and the Health and Medicine Policy Research Group to talk about how to age safely in your home. To RSVP please call 312-603-9233.

Where: Richard J. Daley Center (50 W. Washington St., Room 2005) When: Thursday, May 5th from noon until 1:30 pm

Become a U.S. Citizen - Citizenship Workshop To be eligible for citizenship you need to be a Legal Permanent Resident (Green Card Holder) for at least 5 years, or 3 years if you are married to a U.S. Citizen. At the workshop you can receive a legal review with an attorney, get assistance filling out your N-400 application and have your application mailed to the USCIS on your behalf. For more information and a list of things to bring with you to the workshop please call 312-949-9980.

Where: Chicago Bee Public Library (3647 S. State) When: Friday, May 13 from 10:00 am to 12:00 pm

Project Gentlemen Experience I am a Gentleman, Inc. is hosting its annual free suit giveaway for high school graduates. Free registration for the event is required at www.iamagentleman.com.

Where: Hyatt Regency Chicago (151 E. Upper Wacker Drive) When: Saturday, May 14th from 9:00 am to 4:00 pm

Save a Life, Turn in a Gun The Centers for New Horizons is hosting a gun buyback program. Turn in your firearm and receive a $100 gift card, no questions asked. BB-guns, air-guns and replica firearms get $10 a piece. If you can not make the event and wish to turn in your gun, you can call 911 or visit your local police station, however gift cards will only be offered at this event. Call 911 for more information.

Where: Centers for New Horizons (226 E. 43rd St.) When: Saturday, May 14th from 10:00 am to 2:00 pm

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Events in and Around the Ward (continued) Senior Awareness: Prescription Drug Use and Abuse The Circuit Court of Cook County's Elder Justice Center, as part of their Senior Enrichment Seminar Series, presents an event entitled "Senior Awareness: Prescription Drug Use and Abuse." This seminar will feature a discussion about recognizing prescription drug use and how to prevent abuse. To RSVP please call 312-603-9233.

Where: Richard J. Daley Center (50 W. Washington St., Room 2005) When: Tuesday, May 17th from noon until 1:30 p.m.

GHNA Homesteader's Fair The Green Healthy Neighborhoods in Action (GHNA) project will bring to life the Green Healthy Neighborhood (GHN) Land Use Plan on the neighborhood level. Often times, a lack of funding and community participation and expertise tend to be barriers for effective implementation of community plans. The GHNA project aim is to overcome those obstacles and put a community plan into action. As part of the GHNA project, the Green Healthy Neighborhoods Action Council in conjunction with Blacks in Green are hosting a Homesteader's Fair to discuss sustainable living one home-garden-enterprise at a time. RSVP to Diane Burnham at [email protected] or at 773-324-6929.

Where: 6044 S. St. Lawrence Ave. When: Saturday, May 21st from 11:00 am to 2:00 pm

DPS Vendor Fair The Department of Procurement Services Annual Vendor Fair will be on Wednesday, May 25th at the UIC forum. This event will provide the vendor community direct access to over 100 exhibitors, ranging from the City, County and State Governments. It will include the exhibit hall as well as free workshops about contracting opportunities, certification and compliance taught by DPS and Cook County subject matter experts. For more information and to register go to www.2016vendorfair.com.

Where: UIC Forum (725 W. Roosevelt) When: Wednesday, May 25th from 9:00 am to 1:00 pm

Beasley's Family Fun/Health Fest Join the Beasley Academic Center for an exciting night of fun, food, entertainment, networking and helpful information. Donations and volunteers are needed. Family Fest activities include: karate, yoga, line dancing, stepping, DJ, face painting, open swim and more. Please donate to support this great event. All proceeds will be used for Family Fun Night expenses, the 8th grade dance and school-wide incentives. For more information contact Mrs. Haynes at 773-535-1249.

Where: Beasley Academic Center (5255 S. State St.) When: Thursday, May 26th from 4:00 pm to 8:00 pm

Star Party at Chicago Women's Park and Gardens Back by popular demand, the Star Party presented by the Chicago Park District offers a friendly night under the stars exploring the cosmos and indulging in s'mores over a campfire. Bring a blanket, your telescope and binoculars and be ready to enjoy a fun night at Women's Park. This is a free event. For more information vis-it www.chicagowomenspark.com.

Where: Chicago Women's Park and Gardens (1801 S. Indiana Ave.) When: Friday, May 27th from 7:30 pm to 10:30 pm

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Soldier Field Events Parking restrictions are in place for the South Loop during all Chicago Bears football games as well as other events hosted at Soldier Field. Vehicles parked in the South Loop without a valid Soldier Field Parking Pass or Soldier Field Guest Pass are subject to ticketing or towing. For a complete list of Soldier Field events, please visit www.SoldierField.net/events. 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 Soldier Field 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.

Bud Billiken Save the Date Planning for the annual Bud Billiken Parade and Picnic is underway. The event is scheduled for Saturday, August 13th. Save the date!

Doing Business with Mariano's With Alderman Dowell's support, a new Mariano's grocery store is slated to open on the corner of Pershing Road and Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Dr. later this year. If you are looking to do business with Mariano's in the areas of product placement, construction services or professional services, please register online at www.Trinalinc.com or contact Trinal, Inc., corporate diversity consultant for Roundy's/Mariano's at 312-738-0500 or [email protected]. Product placement and professional services opportunities are contracted directly through the Mariano's process. Construction services opportunities are done directly by developers and their general contractors. If you are a developer or general contractor, Roundy's may work with you to get on their pre-qualified list.

Police Accountability Task Force Recommendations In April the Police Accountability Task Force released a report entitled "Recommendations for Reform: Restoring Trust between the Chicago Police and the Communities they Serve." In the report the task force outlines a series of important initiatives and recommendations that, if adopted, can be used as a blueprint for lasting change. The recommendations fall within three basic areas: empowering people, increasing accountability, and addressing other systemic and longstanding problems in policing. To empower people the task force suggests creating a Community Safety Oversight Board, instituting a reconciliation process to publicly acknowledge and address the history racial disparity in policing, improve officer training in respect to engaging youth and renew the commitment to beat-based policing. Under the heading of increasing accountability the task force proposes creating a dedicated Inspector General for Public Safety, change provisions in the collective bargaining agreements that impede accountability, expand the body camera pilot program and replace IPRA with a new Civilian Police Investigative Agency. Last, to address the longstanding problems with policing in Chicago, the task force recommends establishing a Deputy Chief of Diversity and Inclusion in the police department, dismantling the "code of silence," creating a Mental Health Critical Response Unit," and implementing a hotline for CPD members to lodge complaints. These are just some of the many recommendations outlined in the report.

Important Announcements

Beer Classic - Friday, May 6-8 (7) after-noon/evening

Cinco de Miler - Saturday, May 7th from 6:00 am to 3:00 pm

AT&T - May 13th to 21st Autism Speaks - Saturday, May 14th from 6:00 am to 5:00 pm

Move for the Kids - Sunday, May 15th from 6:00 am to 5:00 pm

Bark in the Park - Saturday, May 21st from 6:00 am to 5:00 pm

BBYO 5K Run - Sunday, May 22nd from 3:00 pm to 10:00 pm

Beyonce Concert - Friday, May 27th at 7:30 pm

Soldier Field 10 Miler - Saturday, May 28th from 6:00 am to 4:00 pm

Beyonce Concert - Saturday, May 28th at 7:30 pm

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Chicago Home Buyer Assistance Program To help make homeownership possible for a broad range of working families, the Chicago Infrastructure Trust, has partnered with the City of Chicago to establish the Home Buyer Assistance Program. The program will offer grants to eligible home buyers and burrowers to support down payment and closing costs. Anyone who meets the income or credit score requirements listed below is eligible for the program.

FHA, VA, USDA Loans: $87,400 or less and a minimum credit score of 580

Fannie/Freddie Loans: $133,000 or less and a minimum credit score of 640

Grants provided through this program are for up to 7% of the total loan amount. Qualified borrowers will be required to contribute the lesser of $1,000 or 1% of home purchase price at closing. You can use this program to refinance your home. For more information go to www.cityofchicago.org/homebuyer.

City of Chicago Food Assistance Programs No Chicagoan should go hungry! The Chicago Department of Family and Support Services (DFSS) is partnering with the Greater Chicago Food Depository offers healthy and fresh food to those who need it most. To find a location near you, call 311 or visit: www.chicagofoodbank.org/agencylocator. Chicago seniors over the age of 60 can dine weekdays at one of 60 communal sites though the City of Chicago's Golden Diners Program and homebound seniors may be eligible for home delivered meals, call 312-744-4016 for more information on either of these programs.

Small Accessible Repairs for Seniors Program The Small Accessible Repairs for Seniors (SARFS) program provides safety, security and accessibility improvements that help senior citizens to remain in their homes. Repair types are limited to minor repairs that may include, but are not limited to:

Grab bars

Lever faucets

Door repairs

Carbon monoxide detectors

Smoke detectors

Wheelchair ramps

SARFS is for Chicago seniors who earn no more than 80 percent of the area's medium income and are at least 60 years of age. Qualified recipients may be owners or renters residing in a one- to four-unit building (a renter must have permission from the landlord and the landlord needs to certify that he or she will not increase the rent as a direct result of SARFS improvements). To submit an application for the SARFS program in the 3rd Ward please contact Partners in Community Building at 312-328-0873.

Google Science Fair Calling all bright young minds! Google invites the next generation of scientists, engineers and problem solvers to share your great ideas about how to make the world a better place with science. The Google Science Fair is a global online science and engineering competition open to individuals and teams from ages 13 to 18. Submit a science or engineering project by May 18th for a chance to win a $50,000 college scholarship and other fantastic prizes. Learn more at www.googlesciencefair.com.

New Board of Education Meeting Registration Procedures Beginning with the May 2016 Board Meeting, speaker and attendee registration for monthly Board Meetings will open after the public agenda is posted. The Public agenda will still be posted at 10:00 am on the Monday prior to the Board Meeting, but speaker and attendee registration will now open at 10:30 am on Monday, which is 48 hours prior to the Board Meeting. Opening speaker and attendee registration after the public agenda is posted will bring the Board in compliance with a recent ruling from the Office of Attorney General regarding public meeting registration timing. Next week, the Board will hold office hours at Earle Elementary School to allow community members to more easily meet with Board Members. The Board is working to arrange similar opportunities for community-based office hours in the near future.

Important Announcements (continued)

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Maid Service Providing professional house cleaning service. Employer provides each team of two a company vehicle during work hours, cleaning supplies and equipment, branded uniforms, paid training and a family-friendly work schedule. Employees must submit a criminal background check, a valid driver's license for drivers and must e legally eligible to work in the United States. The next hiring event is on Tuesday, May 3rd at 9:30 am. For more information contact Marco Villalobos at 773-627-5779.

IAA Financial Group Hiring Event Are you entrepreneurial with drive and ambition? Self-directed and able to work with minimal supervision. IAA is looking for insurance sales agents and sales managers who will share their vision. IAA is hosting a hiring event on Thursday, May 5th at 1:00 pm at 1900 S. Harlem Avenue in North Riverside, IL. For more information please call 773-627-5777.

Goodwill Workforce Connection Center - Manufacturing Positions Now hiring for the following positions: punch break press operator, lab technician, inspector, maintenance technician, molder press operator, material handler, CMM programmer, CNC machinist, lead machine operator, assembler, engine assembler and machine operator. Wages $12-20 an hour for 1st, 2nd or 3rd shifts. Must pass drug screen and background check. Minimum GED for skilled positions and must have previous experience. Hiring event is May 10th at 1:00 pm at 1900 S. Harlem Avenue in North Riverside. Call Diana Munoz at 773-627-5777 for more information.

Goodwill Workforce Connection Center - Hospitality Positions Now hiring for the following positions: account manager, housekeepers, laundry attendants, banquet servers and cooks. A representative will be onsite conducting interviews and each candidate will need to be prescreened prior to interviews. Bring your resume and experience is preferred. No jeans or gym shoes allowed. Hiring event Wednesday, May 11th from 10:00 am to 2:00 pm at 1900 S. Harlem Avenue in North Riverside. Contact Diana Munoz at 773-627-5777 for more information.

Security Coordinators Immediate openings for security coordinators at O'Hare International Airport are now available. Employees inspect airline catering food and supply carts, perform safety sweeps of the aircraft, screen airline service personnel and airline cargo. Must be 18 years of age and have a valid drivers license. Must submit to an FBI background check, fingerprinting and drug screen. Interviews are on May 12th from 10:30 am to 2:00 pm at 1900 S. Harlem Avenue in North Riverside. Contact 773-627-5777 with questions.

Home Depot Now Hiring Home Depot is hiring for the following positions: cashier, customer service, department supervisor, kitchen/bath designer, merchandising, office support, operations, tool rental, asset protection. Complete online application prior to interview. Bring resume and two forms of ID. Interviews May 17th from 9:30 am to 12:30 pm. For more information call Marco Villalobos at 773-627-5779.

Harvest Food Group is Hiring Leading co-packer of frozen fruits and vegetables in the midway area is hiring. Positions include: production supervisor, food safety manager, quality technician, quality lead and machine operator. Express Employment will conduct on-site interviews on Wednesday, May 18th from 9:30 am to 11:30 am at 1900 S. Harlem Avenue in North Riverside. Call 773-627-5777 to register.

Call Center Agents Wanted Applicants must have High School diploma or equivalent, speak fluent English, be able to work with a database through windows, have experience using Microsoft Office and type a minimum of 25 words per minute with 90% accuracy. Other requirements vary. Hiring event on Thursday, May 19th from 9:30 am to 2:00 pm. Call Marco Villalobos at 773-627-5779 for more information.

Employment and Training

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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

May CAPS Meetings

Third Ward Alderman Pat Dowell | 5046 S. State St. | Chicago, IL. | (773) 373-9273 | [email protected] www.dowellforthirdward.com | Facebook.com/aldermanpat.dowell | Twitter: @aldpatdowell3rd

Hours: Mon.—Wed.: 9am-5pm Thurs.: 12-8pm (Ward Night from 6-8), Fri.: 9am-1pm, Every Third Sat.: 10am-1pm

1st District

131/132 Tuesday, May 17th @ 7:00 pm 1st District Station (1718 S. State)

133 Wednesday, May 18th @ 7:00 pm Trinity Church (125 E. 26th St.)

2nd District

211 Monday, May 9th @ 6:30 pm Il College of Optometry (3240 S. Indiana)

212/214 Tuesday, May 3rd @ 6:30 pm Mandrake Fieldhouse (3858 S. Cottage Grove)

213/215/224 Wednesday, May 11th @ 6:30 St. Elizabeth's (4058 S. Michigan)

221/223 Tuesday, May 17th @ 6:30 pm King Center (4313 S. Cottage Grove)

225/231 Thursday, May 12th @ 6:30 pm Coppin AME Church (5627 S. Michigan)

7th District 9th District

711/712 Thursday, May 26th at 6:30 pm Sherwood Park (5701 S. Shields)

915 Tuesday, May 10th @ 6:30 pm 9th District Station (3120 S. Halsted)

924/931/933 Tuesday, May 3rd @ 6:00 pm New City Supportive Living (4707 S. Marshfield)

925 Wednesday, May 18th @ 6:00 pm St. Gabriel's Church (4500 S. Wallace)

934/935 Tuesday, May 17th @ 6:00 pm Westhaven Apts. (850 W. Garfield)