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July 2026 Newsletter

Relevance: 7/10
city_budget zoning_or_development_meeting_or_approval city_charter

Summary

Alderman Pat Dowell (3rd Ward) reported hosting a June 23 virtual town hall with DPD and partners on “The 78” TIF (a $424 million request for infrastructure to support future housing and commercial development), and noted City Council approval of funding for Abrams Intergenerational Village (including $13 million in TIF assistance and related financing) with construction scheduled to begin in 2026. The newsletter also highlights the start of construction this July on the Bronzeville Regional Senior Center and shares street and infrastructure work updates, including scheduled resurfacing on Root St. (LaSalle to State) through August 24, 2026. Other major announcements include Alderman Dowell’s participation in Juneteenth events, the opening of the Obama Presidential Center, and various upcoming community events and CAPS meetings, plus a June 2026 ordinance sponsored by her office related to reforming the City’s debt check process for business licenses and permits.

Email from Aldermanic Office of the Third Ward

Third Ward Newsletter

July 2026

In this Issue


Third Ward Update


Important Announcements


3rd Ward Star



July CAPS

Dear John Smith,


Even if you have access to air conditioning, work indoors, or are only outside for a moment, the extreme summer heat can be dangerous. According to the National Weather Service, a heat index as low as 80-90 degrees can cause fatigue with prolonged exposure and/or physical activity. The heat index, also known as the apparent temperature, is what the temperature feels like to the human body when humidity is combined with the air temperature. 


The City of Chicago and its neighborhood partners offer resources for residents to stay safe in the heat. DFSS Community Service Centers, DFSS Senior Centers and many Chicago Park District, Chicago Public Library, City Colleges of Chicago, and Chicago Police District locations serve as cooling centers. Police district stations in particular are available 24 hours for relief from the heat and to help Chicagoans get connected with shelter. For a full list of locations, visit chi.gov/cooling. Residents can also contact 3-1-1 for the nearest location and hours.


When spending your summer enjoying one of Chicago's magnificent parks, during hours of operation, residents can find relief at one of the Park District’s fieldhouses, as well as at pools and splash pads located throughout the city. For more information on Park District cooling resources, please visit: www.chicagoparkdistrict.com/cooling-centers


The City also requires all senior buildings, and apartment buildings/hotels taller than 80 feet with over 100 dwelling units to have indoor common areas with colling and dehumidification systems. These systems must operate when the heat index is above 80 degrees. This is especially important in properties that do not offer in-unit air conditioning to provide residents a respite from the heat.


There is nothing better than summertime Chi. So go out and enjoy everything our great City has to offer! But please be extra cautious during extreme heat events or anytime you plan on being in the sun for an extended period of time. Drink plenty of water and hop inside for a few minutes to cool off whenever possible. No one wants to have their day cut short by getting sick from the heat!


The 3rd Ward Public Service Office staff and I are available to assist you by phone at 773-373-9273 or via email at [email protected]. Thank you for reading this newsletter. Please share it with a neighbor or friend.


Sincerely,


Pat Dowell

Alderman, 3rd Ward

 

Third Ward Update

Alderman Dowell Celebrates Juneteenth Throughout the Ward

Alderman Dowell spent a busy Juneteenth holiday weekend celebrating with residents throughout the ward. Juneteenth commemorates the date of June 19, 1865, when enslaved people of African descent located in Galveston, Texas, finally learned of their freedom from the slavery in the United States.


As she does every year, Alderman Dowell attended the annual Juneteenth Baseball Tournament in Bronzeville, where the love for the sport starts young! Beau Stubblefield-Tave of the Black Baseball Store in Hyde Park spoke of the historic contributions made by Black baseball players. And thank you to Shemeka Irby and the Armstrong Park Advisory Council for their leadership in organizing this fun event. 


She also stopped by Fellowship Missionary Baptist Church's Juneteenth Celebration in Fuller Park where Pastor Reginald Sharp and his congregation filled the park with music and good vibes. Finally, Alderman Dowell attended a local graduation, block club party, and Father's Day celebration. Quite an exciting weekend in the ward!

Alderman Dowell Hosts Virtual Town Hall on "The 78" TIF Request

On June 23, Alderman Dowell held a virtual town hall with the Department of Planning and Development (DPD), Related Midwest, and the Chicago Fire to discuss the proposed Tax Increment Financing (TIF) request for “The 78” development, as well as provide construction updates on the Chicago Fire Stadium.


While construction of the stadium continues, Alderman Dowell and DPD sought to gather community feedback and answer questions about the proposed public investment needed for the broader site and how those funds would be used. The total TIF request is $424 million, which would fund critical infrastructure improvements necessary to make the site viable for future housing and commercial development. To be clear, no TIF dollars are being used for stadium construction. The stadium is 100% privately funded by Chicago Fire ownership.


TIF would be used to fund necessary infrastructure improvements such as: new streets, a public structure to address the site's grade differences, upgrades to Roosevelt Road and Clark Street, enhanced pedestrian connections, and a completely reimagined riverfront. These improvements will provide lasting public benefits while making the site suitable for future development.


“The 78” site has remained undeveloped for more than 60 years. With the Chicago Fire serving as a committed, privately financed anchor tenant, and with a comprehensive plan to address long-standing infrastructure deficiencies, the development of housing, retail, public spaces, and restaurants can now move forward. This transformative project will create a vibrant new community that connects Bronzeville, Chinatown, Pilsen, and the broader South Side to downtown Chicago.


For those who missed the meeting a replay is available here: “The 78” TIF Discussion Town Hall – June 23, 2026 | Ward 03 Chicago. Alderman Dowell’s office will continue to gather feedback and answer questions about “The 78” development as this project moves forward. Please submit comments to [email protected].

Obama Presidential Center Opens in Jackson Park

Alderman Dowell had the pleasure of attending the opening of the Obama Presidential Center, a truly joyous occasion and honor. The atmosphere was pleasant, and the speeches were truly inspiring. Michelle Obama delivered an exceptional speech, showcasing her remarkable eloquence. The Obama Presidential Center is such an amazing addition to the rich cultural landscape of Chicago, and a boon to the South Side!


The Obama Presidential Center was built on the South Side of Chicago where the Obamas’ journey began. In it, visitors will find inspiration in a one-of-a-kind Museum, dive into a story at the public library, and can hang with friends on the Great Lawn. From around the block to across the world, this is the home for hope and change. For more information or for tickets to visit, please go to www.obama.org.

BACP Holds Workshop w/Alderman Dowell

Alderman Dowell was honored to be a featured panelist at a Department of Business Affairs and Consumer Protection (BACP) workshop on June 22nd. At the event, Alderman Dowell, her colleagues, BACP staff, and nonprofit service providers shared their knowledge and experience supporting local small businesses and the power of partnership in building community. Thank you to all the businesses and local community organizations who participated in this informative event.


The Chicago Department of Business Affairs and Consumer Protection (BACP) provides a number of programs and resources to support business on all steps of the entrepreneurial journey, including weekly free business webinars every Wednesday, a free entrepreneur certificate program, business resource expos, Neighborhood Business Development Centers, and many other education and resource programs. For more information about how BACP can assist your business, visit their webpage here.

Construction Begins on Bronzeville Regional Senior Center

Alderman Dowell is proud to announce that the Public Building Commission is starting construction on the new Bronzeville Regional Senior Center (4717 S. Calumet Ave.) this July! Burling Builders will provide design-build services for the project, with construction activities scheduled through December 2027.


In accordance with the Chicago Municipal Code, Burling Builders is granted permission to begin the workday at 6:00 am and to end at 8:00 pm, Monday through Friday; 8:00 am to 5:00 pm on Saturdays (if needed); and 9:00 am to 5:00 pm on Sundays (if needed) for the duration of the project.


The Bronzeville Regional Senior Center will be a new, approximately 25,000 sq. ft., two-story facility where a variety of social, educational and recreational activities open to Chicago’s senior community. Programming will include a fitness exercise room, wellness program (dietician, social worker, nurse, and pharmacist), Golden Diner Program, computer classes, and more. For more information, please visit bronzevilleseniorcenter.com. 

Alderman Dowell Attends Bronzeville Trail Open House

As one of the projects biggest supporters, Alderman Dowell was proud to attend the Bronzeville Trail Open House on June 3rd. The open house was a great success, with amazing turnout, high energy, and attendees that were fully engaged with the project. Thanks to the Bronzeville Trail Task Force, Department of Planning and Development, and Muse Consulting Group for their comittment to the project. And a big thank you to everyone who participated and provided comments on the proposal. For more information and to stay engaged with the Bronzeville Trail, please visit bronzevilletrail.org.

3rd Ward Organizations Receive City Grants

Three 3rd Ward organizations were selected as grant recipients as part of the latest round of Community Development Grants (CDG) awards. CDG applications are separated by size, with larger projects eligible for higher grant amounts, while smaller projects compete for smaller grants. Awardees were selected based on project viability, applicant experience, neighborhood needs, and other factors. Funding for the grants was provided through the Housing and Economic Development (HED) bond, Tax Increment Financing (TIF), and the Neighborhood Opportunity Fund (NOF)


For the large CDG grant, the following project from the 3rd Ward was selected:


  • Community Creation Center at the Chicago Urban League (4510 S. Michigan Ave.) - $490,714 to renovate a community center to include a training kitchen, production studio, pop-up retail and technology training lab. Total project costs: $981,428.


For the small grants program, 3rd Ward awardees include:


  • South Side Sanctuary (4702 S. King Drive) - $194,640 for improvements to the public space for ADA accessibility and a welcome office. Total project costs: $264,020.
  • The Print Lounge (4727 S. Wabash Ave.) - $250,000 for the conversion of a church into a light manufacturing facility. Total project costs: $834,007.


CDG and NOF applications are accepted on a rolling basis, with the next evaluation deadline occurring on August 14th. For more information, visit Chicago.gov/CDG and Chicago.gov/NOF. For more information on Workforce Solutions, visit Chicago.gov/WorkforceSolutions.

City Council Approves Funding for Abrams Intergenerational Village

Championed by Alderman Dowell, at the June City Council meeting the City approved funding for Abrams Intergenerational Village (5300-5318 S. Calumet Ave.). The funding package includes a $3.25 million Multi-Family Program Funds loan, $13 million in TIF assistance, and a write-down of the sale of the long-vacant City-owned property to $3.00. This funding will allow The Renaissance Collaborative to construct a 71-unit intergenerational and permanent supportive housing building intended to provide housing to allow older adults to raise and nurture children collaboratively.


Units will be available for residents between 30-60% of the Area Median Income, and include 25 two- and three-bedroom apartments for "grandfamilies" (grandparents age 55+ raising minor children), 39 older adult apartments (62+), and 7 units for resident assistants (young adult students who are housing insecure). Onsite supportive services, communal living and dining, fitness center, rooftop terrace, library and computer room, and an outdoor playlot with a garden will also be included onsite. Construction is scheduled to begin in 2026.

Mt. Pisgah 100th Anniversary Celebration

Mt. Pisgah Missionary Baptist Church (4600-4622 S. King Drive) has been a pillar of the Bronzeville community for generations, and Alderman Dowell was honored to join their historic 100th Anniversary Celebration! From Pastor Wells to Pastor Ledbetter, the congregation has remained faithful. In honor of their 100th anniversary, Alderman Dowell submitted a ceremonial resolution into City Council commemorating this momentous achievement. You can read the text of the resolution here.

Phillips High School 4-Year Progress Report

The last four years have been a period of tremendous growth for the students and faculty of Wendell Phillips High School in the 3rd Ward. Thank you to Principal Rashad Talley, Phillips faculty and alumni, parents, students, and community members for their dedication to the betterment of our youth. This progress has been born out not only in schoolwide statistics, but in the achievements of Phillips students across the board!


Key metrics that have drastically improved include: math growth from 23% to 71%, reading growth from 22% to 62%, attendance from 61% to 67%, and a decrease in chronic absenteeism from 94% to 80%. For the future, Phillips leadership is prioritizing effective instruction and postsecondary success. This means that students will receive high-quality teaching and engaging learning experience centered on strong academic outcomes. And that this classroom knowledge will prepare students for the next phase of their lives, whether its college, a career, military service, or joining a trade.


Congratulations once again to the Phillips HS community, and we look forward to your continued progress!

Chicago Financial Future Task Force Publishes Budget Recommendations

The Chicago Financial Future Task Force published its final report , recommending numerous policy and financial reforms to help the City on its path to long-term financial sustainability. While there is no single answer to the City's persistent fiscal issues, the report identifies four broad categories for reform that, combined with specific policy actions, can close the City's budget gap. These categories include: actions that strengthen coordination with the State particularly in the areas of pension reform and revenue tools, operational improvements to City government, revenue options that exist under the City's home rule authority, and economic development actions that can increase the City's population and tax base.


The Chicago Financial Future Task Force is an independent group of 23 civic leaders charged with charting practical, forward-looking options for the city’s long-term financial health. Established under Executive Order 2025-1, the Task Force is providing options to tackle rising costs and persistent budget pressures with solutions that go beyond balancing the books. Read the final report here.

Reporting Illegal Activity on Business Corridors

Earlier this year 47th St. between King Dr. and Indiana Ave. was designated as Gang and Narcotic Loitering Hot Spot. Residents and business owners who witness illegal or suspicious activity, such as public consumption of alcohol, suspected narcotics transactions, exchanges of money for cigarettes or other suspicious items, peddling, or any other activity that impacts public safety or business operations, should call 911 immediately to report it. This is the reporting protocol provided by the 2nd District Business Team, and all calls will be routed to the appropriate responding officers.


Consistent reporting is critical to ensuring that the Chicago Police Department can continue its enhanced monitoring and enforcement efforts in this designated area. Maintaining a steady record of calls for service helps demonstrate the ongoing need for police presence and resources.


Additionally, businesses are encouraged to participate in the 2nd District Business Team meetings, where business owners can discuss public safety concerns, receive updates from the Chicago Police Department, and share issues affecting the commercial corridors. The next meeting, which will be held on Thursday, August 27, from 1:00–2:00 p.m. via Zoom (meeting ID: 882 8692 2421, passcode: 5101).

Street Resurfacing - Root St. from LaSalle St. to State St.

Alderman Dowell and the Chicago Department of Transportation would like to inform residents of an upcoming resurfacing project on Root St. from LaSalle St. to State St. This street is part of the Chicago Department of Transportation’s Arterial Street Resurfacing Project – Term South Area, in the 3rd Ward.

 

Construction is tentatively scheduled to begin on Wednesday July 1, 2026, pending clearance from and coordination with existing utilities and weather permitting. MAT Construction is the general contractor for this project with Ardmore Roderick providing Resident Engineering services for the Chicago Department of Transportation.

 

The work will include ADA sidewalk improvements, curb and gutter removal and replacement as needed for ADA and drainage compliance, milling the existing asphalt pavement, asphalt paving, landscaping, and pavement markings.

 

During construction, temporary “No Parking” signs will be periodically installed as required for each activity listed above. These temporary signs will restrict parking during working hours, while adhering to rush hour restrictions, for the completion of the work. All work on this corridor is scheduled to be completed by August 24, 2026.

Billboard Refurbishment - 3635 S. LaSalle St.

JCDecaux is planning for work on its billboard located at 3635 S. LaSalle St. on July 7, 2026. This work is required under their concession agreement with the City of Chicago related to their contractual refurbishment in connection with the City Digital Network. LaSalle St. will remain open to traffic while work is underway. Questions, please call the 3rd Ward Public Service Office at 773-373-9273.

Conduit and Water Line Installation - Federal St. and 33rd St.

The Illinois Institute of Technology (IIT) and Reliable Contracting & Equipment Co. will begin work installing new conduit and two 14-inch high-temperature water lines along S. Federal Street and W. 33rd Street, extending to the property line. Work is anticipated to begin within the next 30 days. The project is anticipated to last no more than a couple of weeks to complete.


IIT is in the final stages of securing the a permit for this project. When additional information about the project is available, Alderman Dowell will alert the community immediately.

Business Violation - Luxe B Studio (358 E. 47th St.)

The Chicago Police Department has issued a Cease and Desist Order to Luxe B Studio (358 E. 47th St.) on June 17, 2026 for hosting private events and offering photography services without the required limited business license, and operating in violation of a Cease and Desist Order. The Cease and Desist Order will remain in full force and effect until the required license has been procured. Additionally, the Department of Buildings has issued an Emergency Closure Order for the first-floor commercial space located at 358 E. 47th St. on June 20, 2026 due to dangerous and hazardous building conditions. Violations include: no plans or permits for event space, lack of carbon monoxide detectors and fire extinguishers, and excessive storage blocking the exits, water heater, and electrical panel. The building must remain closed and vacant until appropriate permits are issued and the dangerous conditions are abated. Questions regarding this order can be directed to the 3rd Ward Public Service Office at 773-373-9273.

Business Violation - 304-306 E. Pershing Rd.

The Chicago Police Department has issued a Cease and Desist Order to 304-306 E. Pershing Rd. for operating an event space without the required license, charging for parties, and operating in violation of a Cease and Desist Order. The Cease and Desist Order will remain in full force and effect until the required license has been procured. Questions regarding this order can be directed to the 3rd Ward Public Service Office at 773-373-9273.

Business Violation - Jamii Center for Arts and Media (3850 S. Indiana Ave.)

The Chicago Police Department has issued a Cease and Desist Order to Jamii Center for Arts and Media (3850 S. Indiana Ave.) on May 24, 226 for operating an event space without the required license, charging for private events, and operating in violation of a Cease and Desist Order. The Cease and Desist Order will remain in full force and effect until the required license has been procured. Questions regarding this order can be directed to the 3rd Ward Public Service Office at 773-373-9273.

Ordinances Sponsored by Alderman Dowell in May 2026

O2026-0026039 - Amendment of Municipal Code Titles 1, 2, 4 and 14 by modifying various sections regarding debt checks. The City's mandatory debt check process for business licenses and permits is overly onerous, costing applicants time and money, while still letting too many bad actors fall through the cracks. To fix this problem, Alderman Dowell has introduced a comprehensive reform to the debt check process that both meets the needs of applicants so they can open and complete their projects in a timely fashion, while still protecting the City from those who refuse to pay the debts they owe. Alderman Dowell is committed to getting every penny of money owed to the taxpayers, but also recognizes the need for businesses to have a fair and consistent process for getting the permits and licenses they need to serve the residents of the City.

Important Announcements

South Loop Event Parking Restrictions

Parking restrictions are in place for the South Loop from Roosevelt Road to Cermak Rd. from Lake Shore Drive to Clark St. during all Chicago Bears football games and many other Soldier Field events. Wintrust Arena events have been removed from the parking restrictions. Vehicles parked in the South Loop without a valid South Loop Event Parking Pass, South Loop Event Guest Pass or Residential Permit Parking pass (for Residential Permit Parking Streets ONLY) are subject to ticketing or towing.


For a complete list of Soldier Field events, please visit www.soldierfield.com/events/all. The 3rd Ward is providing the list below as a courtesy to residents and visitors and does not assume liability for the accuracy of the monthly list of South Loop events. All Soldier Field events are subject to change, including cancellation or the scheduling of additional events. It is your responsibility to adhere to the parking restrictions in place. 

Chicago Fire vs. Vancouver Whitecaps

Thursday, July 16th at 7:30 pm


Karol G - Viajando Por El Mundo Tropitour

Friday, July 24th at 7:00 pm and Saturday, July 25th at 7:00 pm


Chicago Fire vs. Charlotte FC

Saturday, August 1st at 7:30 pm


HomeGrown Purchase Assistance

The City of Chicago HomeGrown Purchase Assistance Program is designed to help eligible homebuyers achieve homeownership by providing grant assistance for down payments and closing costs. Applications are now open.


Eligible homebuyers must meet income and mortgage requirements, complete homebuyer education counseling, and contribute at least 1% of the original purchase price from personal funds. Grant funds may not exceed 25% of the property purchase price before any other purchase assistance is applied. 


Starting June 8, please contact a HomeGrown delegate agency for more information on how to apply.


  • Neighborhood Lending Services, INC an affiliate of NHS Chicago (NLS)
  • TRP Lending, LLC (TRP)


HomeGrown does not require homebuyers to use a preferred lender. While buyers may choose any qualified lender for their mortgage financing, applications for HomeGrown grant assistance must be submitted through one of the program's authorized administrators, NLS or TRP. The application includes a homebuyer application, income documentation, identification documents, a mortgage pre-approval letter, and executed purchase contract.


Property Tax Toolkit

Impact for Equity is excited to announce the publication of their property tax appeal toolkit. This toolkit builds on the publication of their property tax resources hub, a series of educational materials explaining Cook County’s property tax appeal system and appeals process, common types of appeals, the evidence needed when submitting appeal applications to the Cook County Assessor’s Office and Board of Review, and the burdens and limitations of the process. The toolkit includes all these resources and two new explainers on Cook County property tax exemptions and Certificates of Error, which allow homeowners to redeem missing exemptions or obtain refunds for missing exemptions, or correct a property assessment. When homeowners are better equipped to apply for exemptions, they are more likely to successfully correct their assessment and lower the amount paid in property taxes! 


Virtual Court Appearances in Cook County

Virtual court appearance options are available to case participants across Cook County for many civil and criminal proceedings. Individuals may be able to appear by phone or video instead of coming to the courthouse in person. Some proceedings allow remote appearances automatically, while others may require court approval. Judges may still require participants to appear in person for certain hearings.


Please be sure to check the Circuit Court of Cook County or the Clerk of the Circuit Court of Cook County website to determine eligibility. Those with criminal cases should also check with their lawyer for eligibility. Visit cookcountycourtil.gov/about/remote-court-proceedings, or call 312-603-5030 for more information.


Chicago Climate Week

Chicago's first community-led Climate Week is taking place across Chicagoland from July 18–25, 2026. The Climate Week initiative is designed to bring together events hosted by nonprofits, businesses, universities, community groups, government agencies, and residents across the region, offering opportunities to learn, connect, celebrate, and take action. Learn more, browse events, and find ways to get involved here: www.chicagoclimateweek.org.


ComEd Small-Medium Business Relief Fund

The 2026 ComEd Small and Medium Business Customer Relief Fund is still accepting applications. The 2026 ComEd Small and Medium Business (SMB) Customer Relief Fund, was designed to provide financial assistance to eligible business customers and access to a free facility assessment to help identify energy-saving improvements.


Applications for the program are now open. ComEd is partnering with Neighborhood Housing Services (NHS) who will be responsible for application intake and processing. To learn more about the program please visit ComEd.com/Biz Relief. To apply for the Customer Relief Fund, please click here.


Eligible customers may receive up to a $500 match toward their past-due balance, based on program guidelines. Funding is limited and will be given on a first-come, first-served basis, so we encourage you to apply as soon as possible.


Wells Fargo Neighborhood Growth Grants

Wells Fargo Neighborhood Growth Grants program is coming to Bronzeville and beyond, in collaboration with Allies for Community Business (A4CB).


Eligible small businesses can apply for $25,000 grants to take their next steps, whether that’s expanding operations, upgrading equipment, or strengthening their foundation. And all applicants will gain access to free expert business advising to support sustainable growth. Apply by Friday, July 10 at 5:00 PM.


NHS Home Buyer Education Webinar

Learn about the home buying process such as the basics of budgeting, improving credit, understanding the closing process and down payment assistance programs. This is a virtual eight-hour course delivered in four 2-hour sessions. Register here.


When: Wednesdays, July 1st, 8th, 15th, and 22nd at 6:00 pm


First Monday Jazz Featuring Bobby Broom Trio

First Monday Jazz returns to the Arts Lawn for its 13th incredible year! This summer, legendary DJ, composer, and drummer Clif Wallace II takes the reins to curate an unforgettable season of music. Bring a blanket or low-profile lawn chair and join us for the July 6 performance featuring the Bobby Broom

Trio. Register here.


Where: Arts Lawn (337 East Garfield Blvd.)

When" Monday, July 6th from 7:00 pm to 8:30 pm


Stars on Strings with Dave Herzog's Marionettes

Stars on Strings is a family-friendly musical marionette variety show which features marionettes handcrafted by Chicago-based marionette master Dave Herzog. His wooden stars on strings perform an amazing array of acts including skating, tightrope walking, magical transformations, trapeze skills, and much more! This is an entertaining event for children and families ages 3 and up.


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

When: Friday, July 10th from 10:30 am to 11:15 am


Bronzeville Summer Nights - Cottage Grove Ave.

Bronzeville Summer Nights returns for its 14th year of commerce, community and culture! This month, celebrate all things Bronzeville along Cottage Grove between 43rd St. and 44th St. where you can walk directly into local shops and restaurants. Visit ShopLocalBronzeville.com for more information.


Where: Cottage Grove Ave. between 43rd St. and 44th St.

When: Friday, July 10th from 5:00 pm to 9:00 pm


Soulful Sounds with Adam Rogers

Adam Rogers is a dynamic saxophonist bringing soulful sound, Southern charm, and high energy to every performance. Blending smooth jazz, R&B, gospel, pop, and timeless classics, Adam creates a rich experience that is both powerful and unforgettable. Known for his rich tones, emotional delivery, and engaging stage presence, Adam continues to captivate audiences with music that connects generations and brings people together.


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

When: Saturday, July 11th from 2:00 pm to 3:00 pm


Side by Side with Chicago Philharmonic

Side by Side invites string orchestra musicians of all ages and skill levels to rehearse and perform a free concert alongside Chicago Philharmonic musicians at Ping Tom Memorial Park. Community members are invited to bring a camping chair or blanket and watch the rehearsal and concert too! Sign up today at chicagophil.org.


Where: Ping Tom Memorial Park (300 W. 19th St.)

When: Saturday, July 11th from 4:30 pm to 5:30 pm


Perspectives Now Enrolling for the 2026-2027 School Year

Perspectives Charter Schools are now enrolling students for the 2026-2027 school year. Perspectives serves grades 6-12 in Bronzeville, Chatham and the South Loop, and offers 40+ athletic and after school programs. Open houses are being held at the following times:


  • Perspectives Joslin Campus (1930 S. Archer Ave.) - Monday, July 13th at 5:30 pm
  • Perspectives Math and Science (3663 S. Wabash Ave.) - Wednesday, July 15th at 5:30 pm
  • Perspectives Leadership Campus (8522 S. Lafayette St.) - Thursday, July 16th at 5:30 pm


Questions? Email [email protected] or call 773-358-6141.


NHS Financial Literacy Webinar

Whether you are planning to purchase a home or simply need to improve your finances, this webinar will prepare you for financial security. Learn How To: develop a spending plan, reduce your debt, and increase your credit score.


When: Tuesday, July 14th from 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm (link to register)


Lightsaver Program

Cook County Sheriff Thomas J. Dart and Alderman Dowell are hosting a Lightsaver Program where residents can receive free car light repairs for their taillights, headlights, and license plate lights. There will also be electronic recycling, prescription drug take-back and secure document shredding provided. Pre-registration is required by the July 13th deadline. Register at bit.ly/sherifflightsaver.


Where: 3rd Ward Public Service Office (5046 S. State St.)

When: Thursday, July 16th from 9:00 am to noon


16th Ward Vendor Fair

Alderman Stephanie Coleman (16th Ward), Chairman of the Chicago Aldermanic Black Caucus, is hosting a vendor fair in collaboration with the Chicago Department of Procurement Services. Learn how to do business with the City of Chicago! Register here.


Where: Kennedy King College (740 W. 63rd St.)

When: Tuesday, July 21st from 10:00 am to 2:00 pm


The Future of Health in a Connected Cook County Virtual Town Hall

How are health systems, providers, and community health partners ensuring residents can equitably access care, information and services in today's digital world? Join a virtual town hall for a facilitated conversation with public health leaders. Register at bit.ly/cchealth2026.


When: Tuesday, June 23rd from noon until 1:30 pm


Once Upon a Time Called, Now!

Held in conjunction with Sightlines, Ghosts, and Other Stories of the Impossible, this conversation brings together Jess Atieno, Leslie Wilson and Nekita Thomas to consider the afterlives of architecture and the futures projected through it. Register here.


Where: Green Line Performing Arts Center (329 E. Garfield Blvd.)

When: Friday, July 24th from 6:30 pm to 8:30 pm


Mobile City Hall

The Chicago Clerk's Office and Alderman Dowell are hosting a Mobile City Hall. At the event, residents can purchase a City Sticker, Residential Parking Permits, dog licenses, and get a free CityKey card (requires advanced appointment at www.getcitykey.com) right in their neighborhood! Participating vendors also include the Office of the City Treasurer, Civilian Office of Police Accountability, Chicago Public Library, Mayor's Office, Illinois State Treasurer's Office, Humboldt Park Health Dental Van, Get Covered Illinois, and the Great Lakes Credit Union.


Where: Washington Park Fieldhouse (5531 S. King Drive)

When: Saturday, August 15th from 10:00 am to 1:000 pm

3rd Ward Star

June Foster Siggers

During the June 17th City Council meeting, Alderman Dowell had the pleasure submitting a ceremonial resolution honoring June Foster Siggers, Manager of Liberty Commons (4835 S. King Dr.) in the 3rd Ward, on her retirement after 35 years of dedicated service to the building's senior residents.


Ms. Siggers is a DuSable High School and Wilson Jr. College (now known as Kennedy King College) grad, who prior to working at Liberty, was one of the first Black women hired as an Executive Secretary while working in Goldblatt's advertising department. She also worked for Chicago Public Schools in their corporate office. A faithful member of Liberty Baptist Church since 1954, Ms. Siggers is a testament of faith, joy and professional acumen. Congratulations on retirement and best of luck on the next stage of your journey!

July CAPS Meetings

Attending and participating in the Chicago Police's Community Policing Program (CAPS) is one of the best ways to address crime and quality of life issues in your neighborhood. By attending CAPS meetings, you can share important information with the police that will assist them in making arrests and preventing crime as well as receive valuable information about resources that promote homeowner and community safety. Visit www.chicagopolice.org to find out what district you live in and click on each district title to learn more about what is happening in your neighborhood.


1st District CAPS Meetings

Beat: 131

Date: July 15th at 6:00 pm

Location: Awaken Church (1829 S. State St.)


Beat: 133

Date: July 15th at 5:00 pm

Location: The Hub (2901 S. King Dr.)


2nd District CAPS Meetings

Beat: 211

Date: July 13th at 6:00 pm

Location: Illinois College of Optometry (3241 S. Michigan Ave.)


Beat: 213

Date: July 28th at 6:00 pm

Location: St. Elizabeth Church (4058 S. Michigan Ave.)


Beat: 221

Date: July 21st 6:00 pm

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


Beat: 224

Date: July 30th at 6:00 pm

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


Beat: 225

Date: July 8th at 6:00 pm

Location: 2nd District Community Room (5101 S. Wentworth Ave.)


Beat: 231

Date: July 16th at 6:00 pm

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


9th District CAPS Meetings

Beat: 915

Date: July 14th at 6:00 pm

Location: Zoom - For information contact the 9th District Community Policing Office at 312-747-3501 or [email protected]


Beat: 925

Date: July 22nd at 6:00 pm

Location: Zoom - For information contact the 9th District Community Policing Office at 312-747-3501 or [email protected]

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