Dear Third Ward Resident, As you can see from this month's newsletter, infrastructure related construc-tion projects have begun throughout the Third Ward. Several water and sewer main installation and repair projects are underway, a forestry blitz was con-ducted, and ComEd is continuing their grid upgrades along State Street. Al-though these projects may cause some temporary inconveniences, the up-grades are necessary and will bring better services to the ward. In addition to infrastructure upgrades, I have been working with various city and community organizations to bring exciting new resources to the Third Ward such as the new Bike Share Program, the Chicago Plays Program, the Washington Park Arts Incubator, and the Black Firefighters Museum. I con-tinue to go after businesses that are harmful to the community and promote those that operate responsibly. As you can see from the monthly calls for ser-vice tables in the newsletters, there are a range of issues that are dealt with by a variety of city agencies. The Third Ward is blessed to have several community-minded organizations and individuals who get involved with different projects. However, everyone must get involved in the effort to strengthen the Third Ward. This means call-ing 911 for emergencies and 311 or our office at (773) 373-9273 for needed services such as pothole repair, garbage carts, vacant lots/buildings, or any other issue that can be handled by one of the city's agencies. This also means getting involved with community service projects like the Third Ward Clean and Green on April 20th and adhering to new street sweeping schedules, so our streets and sewer drains can remain free of debris (see below). With the mess left behind from the melting snow, we need all the help we can get to keep the parkways, vacant lots, and other areas clean. Call the Third Ward Streets and Sanitation Office at (312) 745-2243 to get the materials you need. Please take a look at the schedule for the community meetings regarding school closings. It is essential that we attend in numbers to ensure the needs and concerns of the community are represented. Like most of you, I am looking forward to warmer weather, riding my bike, blooming trees and flowers, and more opportunities to get outside. I hope you'll join me in enjoying all the Third Ward has to offer and mak-ing it even better for those who live, work, and play here. Sincerely,

Pat Dowell Alderman, 3rd Ward

Third Ward Newsletter

April 2013

Inside this issue:

Third Ward Update 2-6

Events in and Around the

Ward

7-8

Other Events of Interest 8-10

Important

Announcements

10-14

Third Ward Stars 14

April CAPS 15

Third Ward Update

Rosenwald Update Progress continues on the redevelopment of the Rosenwald Building located at 47th and Michigan Avenue. The developer, Landwhite, has selected a joint venture as the general contractor for the rehabilitation of this important historic landmark. The general contractor is a team composed of George Sollitt Construction, and Powers and Sons Construction and Brown Momen, a 49% African American and a 51% majority team. The two year project will also bring jobs to the 3rd Ward. The general contractor has made a strong commitment to utilize 3rd Ward construction workers as part of its planned community hiring for the project. Prior to the work getting started, the 3rd Ward Office will hold another community meeting to introduce the general con-tractor and describe the community hiring process. Rehab work will begin on the building in late summer or fall 2013. The building, which opened in 1929 with 450 rental apartments has been vacant for more than 12 years and will be renovated as a rental building with 235 apartments, 70,000 square feet of commercial/retail and community space, a landscaped 2 acre court-yard and a full range of programs and amenities for its residents. Of the 235 units, 138 will be for seniors and

97 for working families. The total development cost is $110 million of which approximately 60% is coming from private sources including the developer, construction lender and tax credit investors. The City of Chicago has committed up to $25 million in TIF funds for this develop-ment (less than 25% of the development costs) which is standard city policy in housing and economic development initiatives in the city. To view a list of frequently asked questions, please visit www.dowellfor3rdward.com. If you have ideas for retail and commercial users or know people looking for office space upon the completion of the rehab, please let us know by calling the Third Ward office at (773) 373-9273 or e-mailing at ward03@cityofchicago.org.

I-Go Car Sharing in Third Ward The I-GO car sharing program in Bronzeville needs an increase in customers to remain viable, according to I-GO officials. The program which began last year is being utilized, but it needs more customers to justify remaining at its current location. The ve-hicle, a 2012 Toyota Prius hybrid is located in the parking lot at the Illinois Service Federal Savings and Loan, 4619 South King Drive. I-GO is a Chicago 501(c) (3) not-for-profit organization. For more information go to http://www.igocars.org or call 773-278-4446.

Third Ward Calls for Service According to 311 City Services, 434 calls were made to 311 from the Third Ward, which generated 571 city service requests in Feb-ruary, 2013. These figures do not include calls made to 911, from cell phones, or requests made directly from Alderman Dowell's office, which means the numbers are likely significantly higher.

Third Ward Update (continued)

Forestry Blitz On March 15, 2013, the Department of Streets and Sanitation's Bureau of Forestry conducted a forestry blitz in the Third Ward. 23 trees were trimmed, which addressed 16 calls for service and 4 trees were removed, which addressed 2 calls for service. Residents should call 311 with all forestry-related requests.

Bike Share Program Coming to the Third Ward As part of the City's initiative to expand bicycling options throughout Chicago, eight new Bikeshare stations will be in-stalled in the Third Ward in 2013. All Bikeshare stations are solar powered and have 15 docks for bicycles. The bicycles will be one size fits all with a basket that can hold up to 20 lbs. The first four locations in the Third Ward will be: 43rd/King Dr., Indiana Greenline, 35th St. Greenline, and 16th/State. We are working with the Bronzeville Bicycle Coalition to determine the remaining four locations for 2013.

Third Ward Street Sweeping Schedule

Street sweeping season begins officially Monday, April 1st. Though the 3rd Ward street sweeper is already out cleaning the streets as weather permits, Monday marks the first day this year that the city will post the bright orange "no parking" street sweeping signs on residen-tial streets. Visit www.cityofchicago.org to view a map and schedule for the Third Ward. Each residential street in the 3rd Ward is swept approximately once a month. Residential street sweeping this year will continue until November 18th. Please note that street sweeping will be carried out under the old ward boundaries.

Please remind your neighbors to move their cars on street sweeping days, refrain from blowing or raking leaves or other debris into the streets, and pick up litter along the curb rather than leaving it for the street sweepers.

Black Firefighter's Museum The City Council recently approved an ordinance that leases the vacant firehouse located at 5349 S. Wabash Avenue on a $1, 10 year lease to Morris Davis, retired firefighter and founder of the museum. The museum will honor black firefight-ers and their many contributions and inventions towards firefighting and is set to open next year.

Second Presbyterian Church Landmarked Second Presbyterian Church located at 1936 S. Michigan, was officially designated a National Historic Landmark by the U.S. Department of the Interior on Monday, March 11, 2013. National Historic Landmark status represents the highest recognition for buildings and sites that are determined by the Secretary of the Interior to possess national significance in American culture and history. Second Presbyterian joins previously designated National Historic Landmarks in Chicago including Hull House, Glessner House, Crown Hall, Robie House and the Pullman Historic District, and is only the third church in Illinois to receive this designation. A statement issued by the Department of the Interior states that "Second Presbyterian Church represents the visual and philosophical precepts of the turn of the century Arts and Crafts design movement. Its interior, the masterwork of noted architect Howard Van Doren Shaw, presents some of the finest examples of Arts and Crafts mural painting, sculpture, stained glass and crafting in metals, fabrics, wood, and plaster." Information regarding Friends of Historic Second Church's celebration of the National Historic Landmark designation will be announced in the coming weeks. For more information, please visit http://www.2ndpresbyterianfriends.org/

ComEd Project Update As many of you know, ComEd's trenching work to upgrade their lines involves a large part of State Street. After the

trenching is complete, ComEd is required to replace significant portions of State Street. This involves collaboration be-

tween several public and private entities in which the concrete is graded prior to ComEd's final restoration of the street.

The Chicago Department of Transportation is still working with the Chicago Transit Authority in regards to the timing of

the resurfacing because CTA will be operating a number of buses on State Street during the Red Line reconstruction.

Third Ward Update (continued) Infrastructure

Archer Avenue Street Project

Due to the large number of accidents, the Chicago Department of Transportation (CDOT) will resurface Archer Avenue between Cermak and State in the spring of 2013. CDOT is proposing to restripe the roadway to make it safer for all pe-destrians, transit users, bicyclists, and motorists. Improvements will include: a continuous two-way left turn lane for motorists, high visibility crosswalks for pedestrians and a protected bike lanes for bicyclists. For more information, please e-mail cdotnews@cityofchicago.org or visit www.cityofchicago.org/transportation.

Sewer Installations

King Drive/57th Street

Martin Luther King Drive will be closed at 57th Street for a sewer connection starting March 28th through April 5th. Lo-cal access will be maintained on MLK Drive between 51st and 56th Streets, and between 58th and 59th Streets. Northbound MLK Drive will be detoured to Westbound 59th Street, to Northbound Indiana, to Eastbound 51st Street. Southbound MLK Drive will be detoured to Westbound 51st Street, to Southbound Michigan, to Eastbound 59th Street. St. Lawrence Avenue The Department of Water Management (DWM) will soon install a new sewer main in S. St. Lawrence Avenue, from E. 49th Street to E. 48th Street, and in E. 48th Street, from S. St. Lawrence Avenue to S. Forrestville Avenue. The old pipe dates back to 1892 and needs to be replaced. The area bounded by 47th Street on the north, 49th Street on the south, Champlain Avenue on the east, and Forrestville Avenue on the west will benefit from increased drainage and reduced risk of flooding. Work is scheduled to be completed in April. Final restoration of the damaged streets/parkways will follow. When DWM is working in the street, they may have closures to "through traffic". You will always be able to reach your home or busi-ness, even if it means putting a metal plate in place. DWM will post their work area for "No Parking" as needed, during work hours (7am-4pm). They will try to preserve as much parking as we can.

Water Main Installations

51st/Union The Department of Water Management has begun installing a new water main along 51st Street between Union and Shields. Construction is expected to continue until May 18th. Detour signs are posted, pedestrian access will be main-tained, and trucks will still have access to the railyard. 5500-5900 S. State Street

The Department of Water Management (DWM) will soon be installing 2,722 feet of 12-inch water main in S. State Street, from E. Garfield Boulevard to E. 59th Street, the Alley South of W. Garfield Boulevard, from S. Lafayette Avenue to S. State Street, E. 56th Street, from S. State Street to S. Wabash Avenue, and W. 57th Place, from S. Perry Avenue to S. State Street. Work is expected to be completed by early July 2013. Traffic will be allowed to flow on S. State Street, W. Garfield Boulevard, E. 56th Street and W. 57th Place outside of work-ing hours. Residents will always be able to reach their homes or businesses, even if it means putting a metal plate in place. Outside of working hours, a lane will be left open for local traffic only. South Archer

The Department of Water Management (DWM) will soon be installing 1,169 feet of 8-inch water main in S. State Street, from S. Archer Avenue to E. Cermak Road. DWM will begin installing the new water main shortly, and expect the water main work to be completed by early June 2013. Traffic will be allowed to flow on S. State Street outside of working hours. Residents will always be able to reach their homes or businesses, even if it means putting a metal plate in place. Outside of working hours, a lane will be left open for local traffic only. As with all construction projects, dates may change depending on weather and other factors and "No Parking: signs will be posted accordingly. If there is any appreciable change, residents will be notified. For any questions regarding this or any other water or sewer project, please call 311, Alderman Dowell's Office at (773) 373-9273 or Tom LaPorte at the De-partment of Water Management at (312) 742-1021.

Sewer Lining Project The Department of Water Management will be rehabilitating the existing sewer on East 43rd St. from King Drive to South Cot-tage Grove. This rehabilitation work will minimize if not eliminate sewer cave-ins while providing better drainage to the area. Work hours are from 7am to 7pm and 'No Parking" signs will be posted accordingly. Residents are urged to move their cars away from the work site in order to avoid being towed. It is also recommended that residents pour two or three cups of water into each basement drain to prevent odors. This project is expected to be completed by early April.

Troubled Businesses

Jimmy's Food Mart (3700 S. Indiana)

As a result of a recent inspection, a thirty day suspension commencing at 7am on April 1, 2013 and ending 7am on May 1, 2013 for violations related to the sale of tobacco was issued. Jimmy's appealed the city's decision. After hearing cases from both Jimmy's and the City of Chicago, Jimmy's received a motion of stay to address complaints relative to the judicial review process. As a result, Jimmy's has until May 30th to address this complaint. The city will then issue a re-sponse by June 28th to which Jimmy's must reply by July 25th. The next hearing date is scheduled for July 25th, 2013, 1oam at 400 West Superior. 51st Quick Mart and Cellular (51 E. 51st St.) This business has been on the Department of Business Affairs and Consumer Protection's "Flagged Business List" since August, 2012. It has had more than 7 dockets at Administrative Hearings in previous 12 months that resulted in orders of liability, in-cluding violations for deceptive practices, selling un-stamped cigarettes, and tobacco record keeping. Community Calls to 311 include the following comments: "selling un-stamped cigarettes" "over charge at the check out - no re-ceipts" "caller states that cigarettes are being sold without a stamp" "selling unstamped cigarettes" the caller said that they have been selling them without the stamp for 19 months now" and "selling cigarettes without stamp / open 24hrs 7 days a week with a drive through on the side / overcharging customers."

X-Cell Communications (315 E. 47th) After an inspection revealed X-Cell Communications was operating without a business license, a 10-day notice to correct the problem was issued on March 18, 2013. X-Cell faces the possibility of daily fines between $200 and $10,000 and is subject to closure until the problem is corrected. The next court date is scheduled for April 26th at 2pm at the Department of Administra-tive Hearings located at 400 West Superior, Room 107. Mobil One Stop Car Wash An investigation from the Department of Business Affairs and Consumer Protection found that Mobil One Stop Car Wash was selling cars without a business license. A court date has been scheduled at the Department of Administrative Hearings at 400 W. Superior, Room 107 for April 5, 2013, 2pm.

New Third Ward Business

Chicago Health Elements

Chicago Health Elements has a new location in the South Loop at 79 E. 16th St. Featuring "Integrated Wellness Therapy" they offer acupuncture, chiropractic care, massage therapy, traditional Chinese medication, neurofeedback, biofeedback, nutrition guidance, herbal supplements, yoga, Tai-Chi, Kung Fu, and more. For more information, please call (312) 842-1229 or visit www.chicagohealthelements.com.

Shop Bronzeville App

Want great deals in the Bronzeville area? Download the Shop Bronzeville app today! As part of the Quad Communities Development Corporation (QCDC), Bronzeville is located on the South Side of Chicago near the Illinois Institute of Technology. Originally known as the "Black Metropolis", Bronzeville is a treasure trove of historical and cultural landmarks and experiences. The Shop Bronzeville app is the connection between you and the stores you love in the South Side communities of North Ken-wood, Oakland, and portions of Douglas and Grand Boulevard. A digital neighborhood guide in your pocket! The Bronzeville App is run by Quad Communities Development Corporation and features special offers, loyalty punchcards, maps, updates from merchants, free giveaways, and more. Features include promotions, loyalty punchcards (e.g. "Buy 5, get 1 free" cards), business directory, store directions, community announcements and events, and more. Visit http://www.livelocal.ly/customers to download the app for Android, iPhone, and home computers.

Third Ward Update (continued)

Third Ward Update (continued) Bronzeville Little League

Sponsored by the Bronzeville Community Clubhouse, parents can begin registering their children for little league base-ball and softball. Divisions and ages are as follows: Tee Ball for ages 4-7, minor league for ages 7-11, major league for ages 9-12, girls softball for ages 7-11, and big leagues for ages 15-18. The league board meetings are held every Saturday from 11am to 1pm at the Bronzeville Community Clubhouse (3847 S. Giles) and are open to the public. Parents can also register their children during the board meetings or daily registration is open from 1pm to 6pm, Monday through Friday until April 26, 2013 at the Bronzeville Community Clubhouse. Registration fee is $50/child (parents please provide gloves and shoes). Parents must provide a birth certificate and three documents verifying residency in order to register. For more information, please contact john Cook at (773) 548-7724 or johncook@bcchouse.com or Keith Alexander at (312) 719-1475 or keithalexander77@yahoo.com.

MWRD of Greater Chicago Offers Guide for Contract Opportunities Third Ward business owners seeking to learn how to do business with the Metropolitan Water Reclamation District of Greater Chicago (MWRD) can stop by the 3rd Ward office for information brochures. MWRD Commissioner Kari Steele has provided brochures that give a quick guide on how to obtain MWRD contract work. MWRD will issue contracts in 2013 to purchase a wide range of materials, services and equipment. The MWRD has an affirmative action program to increase equitable participation of businesses owned by minorities, women and/or small businesses. The MWRD's mis-sion is to improve water quality and prevent flooding in Cook County, Illinois. For more information call Commissioner Steele at (312) 751-5694, email her at kari.steele@mwrd.org. or go to www.mwrd.org

Alderman Dowell takes a swing at the pinata

Washington Park Arts Incubator

The University of Chicago's Arts and Public Life initiative on March 8 opened its new Arts Incubator in the Washington Park neighborhood-providing a dedicated space for artists to grow professionally and build creative connections with the surround-ing community. The newly renovated Arts Incubator, envisioned by internationally recognized artist and place strategist Theaster Gates, includes 10,000 square feet of studio space for artists-in-residence, a woodshop for design apprenticeship programming, and addi-tional program space for exhibitions and events. The Arts Incubator, located at 301 E. Garfield Blvd., is housed in a two-story, terra cotta building dating to the 1920s.

The Arts Incubator's programs include an innovative artist residency program, which unites professional development opportunities for artists with the University's efforts

to greatly enhance the cultural amenities of the Washington Park community. In addition to the artist residency pro-gram, the Arts Incubator's projects and activities include: exhibitions, performances and other public programming, arts education, ongoing partnerships and engagement with South Side arts and civic organizations. Open hours for the public on Mondays from noon-3 p.m. and Wednesdays from 3-6 p.m. and during public programs and events.

PDNA Easter Egg Hunt The Prairie District Neighborhood Alliance (PDNA) hosted a wonderful community event over Easter weekend. More than 1550 South Loop neighbors and children came out to the Chicago Women's Park for this fun filled event that included an Easter egg hunt, petting zoo, pinata, entertainment, and a visit from the Easter Bunny.

Alderman Dowell, Theaster Gates,

And U of C President Robert Zimmer

Clean and Green On Saturday, April 20, 2013, you and community groups in your area can make an immediate difference in your neigh­borhood by volunteering your time and efforts to take part in Chicago's Citywide Clean & Green Day. For more than two decades Chicagoans like yourself have teamed up with com­munity groups and the City of Chicago to help beautify your communities by cleaning up and recycling accumulated litter & trash. All you have to do is sign up and join us at a location close to you that could really use a good cleaning. Alderman Dowell's Office will work with you and your community or-ganization to provide use on that day of all the brooms, rakes, shovels and bags needed to get the job done. Join us on April 20th and help make a big difference in our community. For those who sign up in the Third Ward, refreshments will be served at Alderman Dowell's office immediately afterwards. To register or for more information, call 3-1-1, the Third Ward Streets and Sanitation Office at (312) 745-2243, or Alderman Dowell's office at (773) 373-9273. Registration deadline is April 12, 2013.

Alderman Dowell to Host Red Line Construction Update with CTA Officials

Alderman Pat Dowell will host an update on the CTA Red line Construction project with CTA officials at Greater Harvest Baptist Church. CTA officials will provide an update on the final plans for the shutdown of the Red Line scheduled to begin in May 2013.

Where: Greater Harvest Baptist Church (5141 S. State Street) When: Monday, April 29, 2013, 6pm

School Closing Transition Plans and Community Meetings As Chicago Public Schools (CPS) continues the process of closing and consolidating schools, three community meetings are re-quired for each proposed action. Although many of the schools in the Third Ward were removed from the original list, it is impor-tant for people to understand that every school in the area will be impacted and consequently, the communities around them. Based on previous school actions, a significant number of students will be attending schools that are not officially labeled as "welcoming" schools. Although we have already been through several rounds of community hearings, we must continue coming together as a community to make sure CPS understands the needs of our schools, parents, and especially students. Regardless of whether you have a child whose school is directly impacted, you are encouraged to attend these meetings to voice your concerns. You can view CPS' Transition Plan, the letter sent to parents, and the letter sent to staff for each school before attending the meetings by visiting www.cps.edu. The community meetings are as follows:

Attucks (recommended for closure) April 9th @ Dunbar High School (3000 S. King Dr.) April 13th @ Dunbar High School Dewey* (recommended for turnaround by AUSL) April 30th, 5:30-7:30pm @ Board of Education (125 S. Clark)

Mayo Elementary School/ Wells Prep (recommended for consolidation) April 9th, 5-7pm @ Kenwood High School (5015 S. Blackstone)

April 13th, 10am-12pm @ Kenwood High School Overton (recommended for closure) April 8th, 7:30-9:30pm @ Dunbar High School April 12th, 7:30-9:30pm @ Dunbar High School Parkman (recommended for closure) April 9th, 5-7pm @ Dunbar High School April 13th, 10am-12pm @ Dunbar High School Williams Elementary/Williams Middle School/Drake Elementary (recommended for consolidation) April 10th, 5-8pm @ Dunbar High School April 15th, 5-8pm @ Dunbar high School

*The proposal for Dewey is for it to become a turnaround school to be managed by AUSL. State law only requires one meeting for this action whereas, two additional meetings are required for proposed closures.

Events in and Around the Ward

Events in and Around the Ward Freedom Fighters and the Role of Religion Join Queen Mother Chaplain Helen Sinclair for the Powerful Message and The Gathering. Freedom Fighters like Rev. Harold E. Bailey, of Probation Challenge, Howard Saffold, African American Police Co-Founder, Dr. Peggy Ann, Prince Asiel Ben Israel, Jessie (MA) Houston, and others are scheduled to speak. Host Pastor Curlee Adams says, "It is time that we understand the role religion should play."

Where: St. Paul C.M.E. Church (4644 S. Dearborn) When: April 20, 2013

An All Prison Ministries Holistic Conference This event is hosted by the Prison and Jail Ministries of Rainbow PUSH Coalition and Hope Outreach Life Ministries. Rev. Curlee Adams, Queen Mother Helen E., Sinclair Chaplain (Retired) International Director Jessie (Ma) Houston Prison & Jail Ministries of Rainbow Push Coalition, Rev. Jesse L. Jackson, Sr. Founder/President, Dr. Ella Wee McWilliams, President, Sam Stewart, President Emertius as well as many Judges and Ministers are expected. Refreshments from The original Soul Vegetarian Restau-rant will be provided.

Where: St. Paul CME Church (4644 S. Dearborn)

When: April 20, 2013, noon to 3:30pm

IPRO Day at Illinois Institute of Technology The Interprofessional Projects Program (IPRO) at the Illinois Institute of Technology (IIT) brings together undergraduate stu-dents from all majors to work in interdisciplinary teams on real-world projects in engineering research, process improvement, sustainability, service learning and venture development. Many of the projects are sponsored by corporations or community part-ners. At the end of each semester, IPRO teams exhibit their work through presentations and exhibits and compete for awards at IPRO Day. Members of the Chicago-area professional community who volunteer as judges at IPRO Day are able to interact with some of the most talented students in the U.S. and learn about cutting-edge research at IIT. This year, in addition to IIT's undergraduate student IPRO teams, they are hosting five additional local high school teams through the EPICS High Program. EPICS High is offered by Purdue University with IIT as a collaboration partner for Chicago area high schools.

Where: IIT Hermann Union Building (3241 S. Federal) When: April 26, 2013, 10am to 3pm

La Vida Dance Academy La Vida Dance Academy is Bronzeville's new dance academy offering classes in ballet, tap, jazz, modern, hip-hop, zumba, and praise dancing. Spring registration is currently open (April 1-May 7, 2013) and classes begin Saturday, March 30, 2013 and are $10/class or $80 for an 8-week session for ages 3 and up. For more information or to register, please contact (312) 324-4684 or visit www.lavidadance.net.

Other Events of Interest Celebration of Migration

The Leadership Advisory Committee, along with several community partners, celebrates the migration experience and honors the visual artists and artwork featured in They Seek a City: Chicago and the Art of Migration, 1910-1950 with an evening that in-cludes performances in conjunction with the South Side Community Art Center, National Museum of Mexican Art, and the Max-well Street Klezmer Band. This is free with museum admission. For more information, visit http://ow.ly/jtgTq. To register today, please visit http://ow.ly/jth1u.

Where: Art Institute of Chicago, Griffin Court When: Thursday, April 4, 2013, 6-8pm

Other Events of Interest (continued) Free Prom Dresses

Prom Goes Green is an event being sponsored by USAgain where over 1500 gently used prom dresses will be given away on a first-come-first-serve basis. Hundreds of thousands of new dresses are purchased every year for high school home-coming and prom dances, only to be left in a closet and never to be worn again or thrown away. USAgain's mission to divert clothes and shoes from landfills can also benefit young women in need of quality dresses for prom. Please bring a valid student ID and an old shirt for USAgain to recycle. Sign up for free and learn more at www.usagain.com/prom-goes-green.

Where: Malcom X College Sports Complex (1900 W. Van Buren)

When: Saturday, April 6, 2013, 10am to 4pm

Employment and Resource Fair

The Lighthouse Church of All Nations is hosting this Employment and Resource Fair. The FBI, Chicago Police, CEDA, and several other public and private organizations will be on hand to accept your resumes. Attendees are asked to wear business casual attire. Raffle and door prizes will be awarded. For more information, please contact Theresa Hubbard at (708) 527-0937.

Where: Lighthouse Church of All Nations (4501 W. 127th St., Alsip, IL.)

When: April 10, 2013, 10am to 2pm

Home Expo 2013

The Chesterfield Community Council is presenting this event where services and seminars will be available to assist Chi-cago residents with home preservation and purchasing. Topics will include: Home Improvement loans, Loan Modifica-tion, Foreclosure Prevention, Flooding Prevention, Senior Housing, and Homebuyer Initiatives/Assistance. For more information, please contact (773) 651-3958 or visit www.chesterfieldcommunitycouncil.org.

Where: Tuley Park (90th/King)

When: April 20, 2013, from 10am to 1pm

National Prescription Drug Take Back Day

Please join the Metropolitan Water Reclamation District of Greater Chicago in participating in National Prescription Drug Take Back Day on April 27, 2013. In the past, people have been encouraged to dispose of unwanted prescription medications by flushing them down the toilet, but officials have since learned that the contaminants in the prescriptions can end up in our streams, lakes, and ground water. Even the state-of-the-art water treatment facilities are not designed to handle pharmaceutical waste. In addition to the environmental benefits, disposing of your medications also helps prevent the drugs from being used illegally or improperly. Simply throwing you old prescriptions in the trash increases the possibilities of overdose and abuse.

Where: Water Reclamation Plants at 3500 Howard St., Skokie, 6001 W. Pershing Rd., Cicero, and 400 E. 130th St., Chicago

When: Saturday, April 27, 2013, 10m to 2pm

6th District Employment and Health Fair

Hosted by 6th District Commander Eric Carter and the 6th District CAPS Office, this event will have United Health Care, Dish Network, ADT, and several other organizations who are hiring ready to accept your resume. Please dress in business attire. Additionally, free haircuts, massages, facials, manicures, and health screenings will be available. Raffle prizes will also be awarded. For more information, please contact Theresa Hubbard at (708) 527-0937.

Where: 6th District Police Station (7808 S. Halsted)

When: April 30, 2013, 10am to 2pm

Other Events of Interest (continued) Ada S. McKinley's "Making College Real" Fundraiser Luncheon

Ada S. McKinley is driven by its mission to serve the most vulnerable individuals and communities in Chicago and is one of the 10 largest human services organizations in Chicago. McKinley serves 12,000 people annually at 38 sites. For nearly five decades, the McKinley College Preparation and Placement program has helped make it possible for more than 50,000 low-income high-school students to attend some 400 colleges and universities around the nation. Join Ada S McKinley Community Services as they honor distinguished Chicago leaders and celebrate over 4 decades of actualizing student's futures as college graduates and successful citizens through the McKinley College Preparation and Placement Program. Visit http://makingcollegereal.eventbrite.com/ to purchase tickets and to register.

Where: University Club of Chicago (76 E. Monroe) When: May 3, 2013, 11:30am to 2pm

Property Owner/Manager Safety Workshops

The Chicago Police Department in partnerships with the Department of Buildings, and the Department of Law, along with the Community Investment Corporation (CIC), will be hosting a series of resource workshops for the owners and managers of residential properties of various sizes. These workshops are designed to assist managers and property own-ers to increase their level of personal safety and learn how to work with police and other partners to improve the level of safety surrounding their properties. Topics include but are not limited to: Understanding the Housing Choice Voucher Program, Tips to Reduce Crime at Your Property, Understanding the Building Code, Best Practices of Lease Management, and Personal Safety. Morning and evening sessions will be provided. All workshops are free to property owners, but space is limited. Please call William Townsell at (312) 745-5900, ext. 85131 or e-mail William.townsell@chicagopolice.org to register or to get more informa-tion.

Where: City Hall, Room 1103 (121 N. LaSalle) When: May 2, 2013, 11am to 12:30pm July 11, 2013, 11am to 12:30pm September 12, 2013, 11am to 12:30pm November 7, 2013, 11am to 12:30pm Where: 9th District Police Station (3120 S. Halsted)

When: May 7, 2013, 5pm to 6:30pm

Important Announcements City Vehicle Sticker Overhaul City Clerk Mendoza introduced legislation that will mark the first major overhaul of City Vehicle Stickers in 100 years. The ordinance authorizes the Clerk's Office to transition from seasonal City Sticker sales to Year-Round sales. This year will be the last time residents receive a June-to-June sticker. The first phase will be focused on educating the public about the upcoming changes to be implemented in 2014. This legislation is the start of phase one of the Year-Round Sticker Sales Program, an unprecedented educational out-reach effort to every Chicago driver. One aspect of this will be the 1.3 million renewal forms we will send out this spring notifying Chicagoans of the upcoming changes to City Vehicle Sticker sales and how it will impact them. In 2013, the Clerk's Office will be asking residents on their renewal forms for their email and VIN, or Vehicle Identifica-tion Number. In 2014 - during the second phase of the transition to Year-Round sales - City vehicle owners will be as-signed a new sticker expiration month based on a vehicle's Illinois State License Plate Registration expiration. There will be a six-month offset between the expiration of license plate registrations and Vehicle Stickers to help households budget for vehicle costs. Senior motorists over the age of 65 will not be affected by these changes and will remain on a June-to-June schedule.

Important Announcements (continued) Commercial Driver's License Training Program Full Time Logistics, LLC is offering a program to teach students how to operate a truck while also learning about U.S. Department of Transportation safety inspection and other regulations and requirements to ensure students have a full understanding before receiving their Commercial Driver's License (CDL). After students have successfully completed the four-week course, they will receive job placement assistance. Financial assistance is available for those who qualify. For more information or to register, please call (773) 912-6927 or e-mail info@fulltimelogistics.com.

Community Justice Centers An initiative from State's Attorney Anita Alvarez's Office, Community Justice Centers (CJCs) provide many resources for area residents such as informational seminars and workshops, assistance with court information, providing crime vic-tims with resources, attendance and participation at local community meetings, and working with schools to conduct youth prevention programs. The staff at CJCs work closely with local police departments, community groups and schools, businesses, and area residents to prevent crime. Each of the centers also has prosecutors from the State Attor-ney's Mortgage Fraud Investigations and Prosecutions Unit. These prosecutors work closely with business groups and neighborhood organizations on mortgage fraud complaints. For more information and for a complete list of locations, please visit the State's Attorney Anita Alvarez's Office website at www.statesattorney.org. The locations in Chicago are:

South Side Community Justice Center

9059 S. Cottage Grove (serving the 4th, 6th, and 22nd Police Districts) (773) 783-5100 Central Community Justice Center

715 W. Maxwell Street (serving the 11th and 12th Police Districts) (312) 325-9700

Bike the Drive Whether you're new to biking or you're a seasoned veteran, you'll find MB Financial Bank Bike the Drive an event to re-member-nearly five hours of riding while enjoying breathtaking views of the city and the lake. Don't miss the one day of the year when bicycles reign on Lake Shore Drive. When you register, take heart in knowing that you're supporting efforts to make biking, walking and public transporta-tion easier and safer throughout the region. To continue to support healthy, sustainable transportation, please consider joining the Active Transportation Alliance when you register. Registration for children and families: To register riders age 17 and under, you must first complete an adult registration and then add others as needed. Sign up before May 5 to avoid the late fee! For more information or to register, please visit www.bikethedrive.org.

Free Business Workshops The Department of Business Affairs and Consumer Protection (BACP) offers free monthly business workshops. For April, workshop topics include: Inspections, 501©3s, Mobile Food Licenses, Technology, Merchant Licensing, Starting a Busi-ness, Certification, and Doing Business with the City of Chicago. All workshops are held at BACP offices located in City Hall (121 N. LaSalle), room 805. Space is limited, so please contact (312) 744-2086 or bacpoutreach@cityofchicago.org to RSVP.

review process for small business owners and entrepreneurs, and reduces the time it takes to obtain a license

City staff will also actively direct their clients to financial assistance programs and business plan counselors to encourage the success of small business owners and entrepreneurs.

Free Youth Summer Program Coppin AME's Freedom School is offering free summer programs for youth. The six week program runs from July 1, 2013 to August 9, 2013 and features academics, activities, recreation, and meals/nutrition. To register or to get more informa-tion, please contact (773) 667-5881 or ccc@coppiname.org or visit www.coppiname.org.

Important Announcements (continued) Ironworkers Local 63 Fence Apprenticeship Accepting Applications This is a 3 year program requiring 4200 hours of on-the-job training; in addition to two nights (without pay) of class-room training per week. A new apprentice receives 65% of Journeyman rate of pay and receives a 5% raise every six month. Journeyman rate is $33.74 plus benefits. Minimum qualifications on the day of application:

You must apply in person and fill out your own application and information sheet

Bring your birth certificate - you must be 18 or older

Bring proof of two years completion towards a High School Diploma or, GED equivalent. (transcripts, di-ploma, or GED certificate)

You must provide a current physical (within 6 months) from a doctor stating that you are capable of performing manual labor If you meet the minimum qualifications you will be given a list of Contractors. It is the applicant's responsibility to con-tact these contractors to solicit employment. If a contractor agrees to employ an applicant, the Contractor must supply a letter of intent to hire to the Apprentice Coordinator. Applicants must at time of hire:

Be able to pass a drug test

Have reliable transportation

Have a valid driver's license\

Applications are being accepted at 2523 W Lexington St., Broadview, IL between the hours of 10:00 am to 2:00pm Mon-day April 15, 2013 thru Friday April 19th and Monday April 22nd thru Friday April 26, 2013.

Free Youth Summer Program Coppin AME's Freedom School is offering free summer programs for youth. The six week program runs from July 1, 2013 to August 9, 2013 and features academics, activities, recreation, and meals/nutrition. To register or to get more informa-tion, please contact (773) 667-5881 or ccc@coppiname.org or visit www.coppiname.org.

Free Computer Technology Skills Training and Technology Access Program Sponsored by The Renaissance Collaborative, this program offers residents the opportunity to build their computer skills, obtain digital literacy training, learn Microsoft, QuickBooks, social media, cloud computing, and other programs and applications, update a resume, apply for a job, and research schools. To be eligible, youth must be between the ages of 12-17, adults over 18, and seniors who are 50 and older, drug-free and sober with reading and math levels above the 6th grade. This free program is available to individuals, businesses, and groups. Register online at http://trc.edu20.org with code: DCEOchicago. These classes are being offered at two locations: The Renaissance Collaborative at 3757 S. Wabash and the TRC Senior Village at 346 E. 53rd Street. For more information, please contact Lahesha Williams at (773) 924-9270, ext. 33 or lwil-liams@trcwabash.org or John Preston at (872) 237-5810 or jayelpea@gmail.com.

Second Faith Temple Free Computer Training Classes Second Faith Temple located at 429 E. 49th St. is offering a free seven-week course that covers basic computing, key-boarding, Microsoft Word, and using the internet. Classes will be offered 10am to 2pm, Monday, Tuesdays, and Wednes-days. Registration is between April 1, 2013 and April 3, 2013 with classes beginning o April 15, 2013. For more informa-tion or to register, please call (773) 624-0799 or e-mail sftbob@sbcglobal.net.

MeterSave MeterSave is a voluntary water meter installation program to help single-family and two-flat non-metered homeowners save water and save money! By having a meter water meter installed we provide a seven year guarantee that the water bill will go no higher than what it would have been had it not been metered. MeterSave customers have already seen sav-ings of over 50% on their water bills. Additionally, upon installation of the meter we are offering, while supplies last, the choice of one of three incentives (an indoor conservation kit, an outdoor conservation kit, or a rain barrel). Please call 311, 312-744-4H20 or visit www.metersave.org.

Important Announcements (continued) New City Hall Small Business Center There has been a recent overhaul of the way City Hall works with small businesses in order to cut red tape and more ef-fectively support economic development across Chicago's neighborhoods. By opening a new City Hall Small Business Center and streamlining permit and licensing reviews, small business owners and entrepreneurs across the city will have a "one-stop-shop" and dedicated staff working with them every step of the way to support their success. And under the leadership of a new Chief Small Business Officer, Roxanne Nava, City Hall will be equipped to advocate for small busi-ness owners and entrepreneurs and ensure policies and procedures are implemented in a way that works for small busi-ness. To fully support the new Small Business Center as a one-stop-shop for licenses and permits, several changes have been made:

City staff are being retrained to offer beginning-to-end case management, ensuring that small business own-ers and entrepreneurs have someone working with them every step of the way to obtain necessary permits and licenses;

City zoning personnel that review business licenses have been moved into the Small Business Center, de-creasing wait times for zoning approvals and allowing the Center to serve as a convenient zoning help desk;

Zoning and licensing reviews will now include driveway permit reviews, which decreases overlap, stream-lines the review process for small business owners and entrepreneurs, and reduces the time it takes to obtain a license

Childcare Services at the Wabash YMCA The YMCA offers year-round child care to Chicago families and is one of the largest licensed child care providers in the city. The Wabash YMCA features:

Health Development and Education Enrichment Programs

Programs for children 5-12 years old

College educated staff

Fun field trips

Bus transportation from local schools

Swimming and other sports

Health snacks and meals

Care for children with disabilities

Free Family Membership with enrollment

Subsidized child care is available for qualifying families. Please call (773) 285-0020 or visit www.ymcachicago.org for more information.

Resource for New Playground Equipment The Chicago Park District and Friends of the Park are happy to announce CHICAGO PLAYS!, a new initiative making playgrounds safer throughout Chicago. This year, CHICAGO PLAYS! will replace playgrounds in 35 parks in need of new equipment. Playgrounds selected for the equipment need to be nominated by a community group by completing a short application. These community organizations should demonstrate a strong support for a new playground through its care and maintenance. Community groups are also expected to help maintain the new playgrounds. The application can be found at www.fotp.org/chicagoplays.

Caregiver Support Group for Grandparents and Other Relatives Raising Children Come share with other family caregivers, grandparents, and other family members who are raising children. The Chicago Department on Aging is hosting support groups for help. Free respite, gap filling, legal aid, and other resources will be available. For more information, please call Niyi Braimah at (773) 382-4603.

Where: Salvation Army- Red Shield Corp. (945 W. 69th St.) When: Third Thursday of every month from 9am to 10:30am or from 10:30am to 11:30am

Important Announcements (continued) Chicago Transit Authority's Apprenticeship Program The CTA Apprenticeship Program is a second chance initiative offered in conjunction with the City of Chicago and social service agencies throughout the city. Working closely with the Department of Family and Support Services, hard-to-place individuals are given an opportunity to obtain full-time employment and training which may enable a start of a long-term, meaningful career. Job seekers interested in participating must:

Reside within the City of Chicago

Be over the age of 18 Participate in 8-10 weeks of Job Readiness Training and obtain a certificate of completion from one of the 8 referring agencies. Apprentice participants that are referred are required to be released from the following:

House Arrest (wearing metal band/bracelet)

Drug/Alcohol Program (i.e. Methadone treatment) Only individuals who have committed non-sexual, non-violent & non-domestic criminal offenses are accepted into the program. Apprentices are paid at a rate of $9.50 per hour and may work up to 40 hours per week. Pay checks are issued on a bi-weekly pay period. Apprentices in good standing receive a certificate of completion and letter of reference from CTA. Providing there are not any additional arrests or convictions on the apprentice record, the apprentice is encouraged to apply for CTA vacancies. For more information, please contact:

Westside Health Authority - 773-664-0612

Teamwork Englewood - 773-488-6607

CTA Apprentice Hotline - 312-681-2293

Malcolm X College Community Jobs Program Dawson Technical Institute offers everything you need to land a job in construction. Training programs are available in bricklaying, construction carpentry, concrete masonry, plumbing, fire protection, and combination welding. Day and evening classes are available. Register by calling (773) 451-2000 or by visiting Dawson Technical Institute (3901 S. State) Monday through Friday, 9am to 5pm. Visit www.ccc.edu for more information.

Dr. Otis Anderson

Dr. Otis Anderson has been the Pastor of Cathedral Missionary Baptist Church located at 4821 S. Wa-bash, for over 30 years. As part of his work, he oversees monthly food basket giveaways that serve people in need in the community. He also founded the Robert Taylor Children's Church and is the Pastoral Committee Chairman for the 2nd District Police, a member of Chicago Public School's Crisis Intervention Team, and a Board Member of the Chicago Baptist Institute. In addition to the community work he does, Dr. Anderson is also a member of the NAACP. Dr. Anderson recently celebrated his 38th year as a Pastor and his 80th birthday. Congratulations and happy birthday Dr. Anderson! The work you are doing will continue to serve the community for years to come.

Father Rick Andrus

Father Rick Andrus has been the Pastor of St. Elizabeth's Catholic Church at 50 East 41st

St. for thirteen years. Through his leadership, St. Elizabeth's has served the community

through multiple ministries, weekly food pantries, and by hosting CAPS meetings. He

also serves as a Board member for Genesis Housing Development Corporation and The

Renaissance Collaborative, which are organizations dedicated to helping people find

affordable housing and other services. Sadly, Father Rick is being re-assigned to another

parish in Louisiana. We greatly appreciate all he has done for our community and wish

him the best of luck in his future ministries and endeavors.

Third Ward Stars

April CAPS Schedule Attending and participating in the Chicago Police's Community Policing Program (CAPS) is one of the best ways to ad-dress crime and quality of life issues in your neighborhood. By attending CAPS meetings, you can share important infor-mation with the police that will assist them in making arrests and preventing crime as well as receive valuable informa-tion about resources that promote homeowner and community safety. Visit www.chicagopolice.org to find out what dis-trict you live in and to learn more about what is happening in your neighborhood.

1st District 2nd District

131/132 Apr. 16th @ 7pm Hilliard Homes (30 W. Cermak)`

133 Apr. 17th @ 7pm Trinity Episcopal Church (125 E. 26th St.)

211 Apr. 8th@ 6:30pm Il. College of Optometry 3240 S. Indiana)

212/214 Apr. 2nd @ 6:30pm Oakwood Shores (3711 S. Vincennes)

213/215 Apr. 10th @6:30 St. Elizabeth's (4058 S. Michigan)

7th District

221/223 Apr. 16th @ 6:30 King Center (4313 S. Cottage Grove)

224 Apr. 18th @ 6:30 Hall Branch Library (4801 S. Michigan)

225/231 Apr. 11th @ 6:30 Coppin AME Church (5627 S. Michigan)

233 Apr. 17th @ 6:30 Hyde Park Neighborhood Club (5480 S. Kenwood)

711/712 Apr. 23rd @ 6:30pm 7th District Station (1438 W. 63rd St.)

9th District

915 Apr. 9th @ 6:30 9th Dist. Station (3120 S. Halsted)

924/931/933 Apr. 2nd @ 6pm Park Federal Bank (1823 W. 47th)

925 Apr. 17th @ 6pm St. Gabriel's Church (4500 S. Wallace)

934/935 Apr. 16th @ 6pm Westhaven Homes (850 W. Garfield)

Aldermanic Office of the Third Ward

5046 South State Street Chicago, IL 60609 p. (773) 373-9273 f. (773) 373-6852

ward03@cityofchicago.org

Aldermanic Office Hours

Monday—Wednesday: 9am to 5pm Thursdays: 12pm to 8pm (Ward Night from 6-8pm)

Fridays: 9am to 1pm Every Third Saturday: 10am to 1pm