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September 2026 Newsletter

Relevance: 7/10
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Summary

Alderman Pat Dowell (3rd Ward) highlights the Chicago Plan Commission-approved development for the long-vacant Pershing Rd. and State St. corner, including a Pete’s Fresh Market and Phase 2 plans for up to 500 new housing units, with construction anticipated to start in 2027. On transit, the CTA will add 10-minute-or-better service to additional bus routes in the 3rd Ward, including Route 35, and Dowell also notes the delayed repair timeline for the Garfield Green Line station elevator. Other major items include the Bike the Drive event on September 6, multiple Soldier Field-related parking restrictions, and September CAPS meetings across nearby police beats.

Email from Aldermanic Office of the Third Ward

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Third Ward Newsletter

September 2026

In this Issue


Third Ward Update


Important Announcements



September CAPS

Dear John Smith,


This month I wanted to take the opportunity to highlight a project that is near and dear to me, one that recently cleared another major hurdle towards final approval. As featured in last month's newsletter, the Chicago Plan Commission - which I serve on - passed the development plan for the long-vacant corner of Pershing Rd. and State St., a development that will include a Pete's Fresh Market. I first proposed this project in 2018, and through fits and starts, pandemic-related delays, changes in administrations, and a rock-solid commitment by the development team, we are finally bringing this neighborhood-changing project to reality.


One of the reasons I wanted to highlight the Pete's project is that it's a great example of promises made and promises kept. No one could have anticipated the pandemic and its effect on the economy. That led directly to a world of higher interest rates, increased materials costs, and labor delays that could have driven the project completely off the rails. But the developers and I knew that the neighborhood needed - deserved - its own local, high-quality grocery store, and kept closing the funding gap little-by-little until a final package was ready for approval.


Additionally, I wanted to talk about the community input that went into the development which unquestionably made this a better project. Through multiple community meetings and discussions with residents, we were able to not only secure a transformational commercial development, but also up to 500 units of new housing as part of Phase 2 of the development. While the exact unit-and-income mix has not been established, our commitment is to provide market rate, affordable, and CHA-eligible units on-site. It was important to the community and I that the development meets both the commercial and residential needs of the neighborhood.


While there is still more to be done before shovels hit the ground, we are well on our way to fulfilling one of the biggest developments our community has seen in many years. Construction is anticipated to start in 2027.


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

3rd Ward Shines During 97th Annual Bud Billiken Parade

Alderman Dowell participated in the 97th Annual Bud Billiken Parade on August 8th, traveling down newly-resurfaced King Drive in a custom float welcoming the City to celebrate the culture and progress of the South Side of Chicago!


The warm and sunny day began with the CPS Alumni Challenge Celebration at Phillips High School, followed by the pre-parade festivities at Mandrake Park and the traditional march down King Drive through the heart of the Bronzeville community. The energy was high, and it was great to see so many children eagerly watching the many fabulous floats, marching bands, and dance teams. Everywhere there were smiles and excitement.


Congratulations to Myiti Sengstacke Rice, Antwan Anderson, city officials and the many volunteers who helped make this year’s parade special, continuing the great tradition first established in 1929. A special thank you to the Chicago Police Department, whose officers deftly and respectfully managed the large crowds of young people keeping attendees safe during and after the parade. The Bud Billiken Parade remains a cherished Chicago tradition—one that brings generations together and celebrates our children, our communities, and the spirit of Bronzeville.

3rd Ward Steps Up to Help Students Back to School

All across the 3rd Ward, residents, families, schools, and community organizations worked to prepare students to return to school for the 2026-27 School Year. As she does every year, Alderman Dowell not only hosted her own popular Back to School Fair, but she also donated to and participated in many other neighborhood events.


First and foremost, thank you to everyone who came out and participated in the 3rd Ward Back to School Fair! Tons of great food (especially the tacos!), desserts, games, giveaways, and most importantly book bags filled with school supplies were enjoyed by all. What started as a rainy Saturday, turned out to be a beautiful weekend sendoff for neighborhood children. Alderman Dowell also celebrated the first day of school at Mollison Elementary School (4415 S. King Dr.) and South Loop Elementary School (1212 S. Plymouth Ct.), giving away bookbags packed with school supplies, and snow cones for the students. Finally, a big thank you to Acclivus, Senator Mattie Hunter, and Representative Kim DuBuclet for their help sponsoring the back to school event at Hair Experts Barber College on 47th Street. What a fun way to get ready for the first day!

2026 3rd Ward Pet Vaccine Clinic

On July 9th, Alderman Dowell and the Department of Animal Care and Control (CACC) welcomed dozens of dogs and their families to the annual 3rd Ward Pet Vaccine Clinic, held at the 3rd Ward Public Service Office. At the clinic, dogs were eligible to receive free vaccine and microchip services from licensed animal care professionals. Thank you to the veterinarians and staff from CACC who work every day to improve the health and safety of our pet population. And thank you to 3rd Ward staff for setting up this helpful community resource.

George Washington Statue Gets Artistic Upgrade

The George Washington statue at 51st St. and King Drive has been reimagined by visual artist/architect and Bronzeville resident Amanda Williams to celebrate “Other Washingtons." This artistic endeavor helps to reframe the conversation from solely focusing on America's founding father, to also honoring the accomplishments of Black Americans at this prominent South Side monument. Black history is on display as other Washingtons are celebrated, including such luminaries as Dinah Washington, Francine Washington, Laura Washington, Grover Washington, Denzel Washington and of course Mayor Harold Washington among others. Special thanks to the Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events and the Mellon Foundation for sponsoring this informative and insightful installation.

Alderman Dowell Participates in Inaugural South Asian American Literary Festival

The South Asia Institute (1925 S. Michigan Ave.) invited Alderman Dowell to participate in their inaugural South Asian American Literary Festival (SAALF) on August 22nd to provide opening remarks. Thank you to South Asia Institute Co-Founders Dr. Afzal Ahmad and Dr. Shireen Ahmad, and Executive Director Sangini Brahmbhatt for the invitation, and for hosting such a vibrant event.


SAALF is a free, one-day immersive diaspora event celebrating literary traditions and cultural expression. The festival showcases the depth and diversity of South Asian writing and highlights its intersection with Chicago’s vibrant literary landscape. For more information about the SAALF or the South Asia Institute, please visit www.saichicago.org.

Alderman Dowell Celebrates Teachers at Mollison Elementary School

August 19th was Teacher Appreciation Day at Mollison Elementary School (4415 S. King Drive), with a very special celebration for the opening of the new teachers' lounge sponsored by Target and Flav-City. Thank you to Brandon Allen from Target and Bobby Parrish from Flav-City for their generous contributions.


Over the summer, CPS and the 3rd Ward have also invested in Mollison, funding facade improvements, an expanded King Drive entrance, the replacement of the louvers, adding window shades and vertical fans, installing landscape pavers, and more. This is in addition to new playground and parking lot that were already completed. Congratulations to Principal Shelagh Jackson on her leadership.

Alderman Dowell Joins National Night Out Celebrations

Alderman Dowell honored Chicago's first responders during National Night Out on August 4th. National Night Out is a nationwide community-building event that promotes police-community partnerships. The 1st, 2nd, and 9th Police Districts that serve the 3rd Ward do an amazing job protecting our community. With proper support and a renewed commitment to building trusting relationships, we can all work together towards safer neighborhoods. Thank you to 1st District Commander Sheamus Mannion, 2nd District Commander Herbert Williams III, and 9th District Commander Joseph Mark for everything you do keeping our communities safe.

Bike Lane Sweeping and Plowing Schedule

The Chicago Department of Transportation is responsible for the upkeep and maintenance of the City's protected bike lane network. That includes scheduled sweeping, as well as snow plowing when required. Scheduled sweeping days for the following protected bike lanes in the 3rd Ward are as follows:


  • State St. - Fridays
  • Wabash Ave. - Tuesdays
  • Indiana Ave - Tuesdays
  • 18th St. - Fridays
  • 31st St. - Thursdays


Each bike lane is cleaned once per week. The City's complete protected bike lane sweeping and plowing schedule is available online at Chicago.gov/bikes or through this direct link: Loop map (3rd Ward is shown on page 3).

CTA Expanding Bus Service in the 3rd Ward

The Chicago Transit Authority is adding 10-minutes-or-better service to four more bus routes, further expanding its Frequent Network that launched last year. This includes the No. 35 - 31st St./35th bus route in the 3rd Ward. The Frequent Network provides service every 10 minutes or better on weekdays from 6:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m., and on weekends from 9:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. The other current Frequent Network routes in the 3rd Ward are: No. 12 Roosevelt, No. 47 47th, and No. 55 Garfield.


Unrelated to the Frequent Network, the CTA also is adding more buses to seven other routes by the end of the year, including to King Drive for earlier Sunday/holiday service. The extra scheduled buses are supported by new funding from the landmark Northern Illinois Transit Authority Act.

CTA Garfield Station Elevator Update

Alderman Dowell's office and the CTA are aware that the elevator servicing the Garfield Green Line CTA Station is not operational. This is due to a broken circuit board that must be replaced. CTA placed the order for the part in June, and was told by the manufacturer that there was no existing inventory of circuit boards available. The part is proprietary to the manufacturer and can not be obtained other than through the manufacturer. New circuit boards are being crafted and will be shipped to the CTA in approximately 6–7-weeks.

 

In order to avoid this issue moving forward, the CTA has ordered extra boards so that, in addition to repairing the current unit at the Garfield Station, the CTA will have spares available and hopefully avoid this type of extended outage if another circuit board fails in the future.

Wells Fargo Bank Opens at Pershing and King

On August 4th Alderman Dowell cut the ribbon on the new Wells Fargo Bank at Pershing Rd. and King Drive. This new branch helps bring needed banking services to a traditionally underbanked community. In addition, the bank, through their Operation Hope Program, committed $1.5 million in grant funds to support small businesses and entrepreneurs located in the Bronzeville community. For more information on the grant program, contact Allies for Community Business. www.a4cb.org.

Kenwood Dance Studio Receives SBIF Grant

Alderman Dowell is proud to announce that Kenwood Dance Studio has been awarded a $13,000 Small Business Improvement Fund (SBIF) grant! This grant will cover security cameras, key fob and key code entry, and exterior lighting for their new space at 123 E. 43rd St. Congratulations and welcome to the 3rd Ward!!


Kenwood School of Dance's mission is to cultivate exceptional individuals and leaders through the art of dance and movement. They are dedicated to fostering creativity, discipline, and self-expression in a supportive and inspiring environment. It is their mission to create skilled dancers as well as confident, compassionate, and resilient human beings. Check them out at kenwooddance.org.


The Small Business Improvement Fund (SBIF) provides reimbursement grant funding for permanent building improvements and repairs across the city. For information about the SBIF program, please click here.

Issues Hair Salon Opens in 3rd Ward

Please join Alderman Dowell in welcoming Issues Hair Salon (100 E. 51st St.) to the 3rd Ward! Congratulations to owner Yvenetta Midge Welch on this great accomplishment. Midge, as she likes to be called, doesn't just cut and style hair, she builds a community full of laughter and respect. Check them out in their new Bronzeville location.

NASCAR Street Race Update

NASCAR has announced that it will not be returning to Chicago as part of its 2027 National Series schedule. Instead, nearby Chicagoland Speedway in Joliet will host a race in 2027. Negotiations between the City of Chicago and NASCAR continue regarding potentially once again racing through downtown during the 2028 season, and as more information about any Chicago Street Race becomes available, Alderman Dowell will alert the community immediately.

Business Violation - Rula Harvest Groceries (450 E. 43rd St.)

The Chicago Department of Administrative Hearings held a hearing on August 14 2026 regarding Rula Harvest Groceries (450 E. 43rd St.) for business violations. As a result of the hearing, a judgment of $2,065 was entered against Rula Harvest Groceries. Questions regarding this order can be directed to the 3rd Ward Public Service Office at 773-373-9273.

Business Violation - Adom African Market (4650 S. Indiana Ave.)

The Chicago Department of Public Health conducted an inspection of Adom African Market (4650 S. Indiana Ave.). As a result of the inspection, a violation for rodent infestation - rats and mice was issued. The business's license has been suspended and was ordered to immediately cease operations. Questions regarding this order can be directed to the 3rd Ward Public Service Office at 773-373-9273.

Business Violation - BLK Food Mart and Deli (509 E. 47th St.)

The Chicago Department of Business Affairs and Consumer Protection conducted an inspection of BLK Food Mart and Deli (509 E. 47th St.) on August 12, 2026. As a result of the inspection, violations for operating without the required Retail Food Establishment License, engaging in the business of retail tobacco without the required Retail Tobacco Dealer License, allowing persons to smoke in a place of business, and failure to present valid government ID when requested by City investigator were issued. A ten-day Notice to Correct and a Cease-and-Desist Order were issued. A hearing in the Department of Administrative Hearings on the above violations is scheduled for September 15, 2026 at 11:00 am. Questions regarding this order can be directed to the 3rd Ward Public Service Office at 773-373-9273.

Business Violation - Single Story Commercial Space (126-28 E. 51st St.)

The Chicago Department of Buildings conducted an inspection of the Single Story Commercial Space (126-28 E. 51st St.) on August 28, 2026. As a result of the inspection, violations for missing smoke and carbon monoxide detectors, rear exit doors locked from the inside, open junction boxes in the cooler area, and the furnace room missing sections of fire-resistant materials were issued. The property owner will be required to obtain the appropriate permits and abate the dangerous and hazardous conditions before being allowed to reopen. Questions regarding this order can be directed to the 3rd Ward Public Service Office at 773-373-9273.

Mayor Johnson Announces Data Center Moratorium Executive Order

Mayor Brandon Johnson signed an Executive Order establishing a set of regulatory safeguards related to data centers, and a dedicated Data Centers Task Force to implement a holistic, long-term strategy. The Executive Order initiates a coordinated effort across City departments to strengthen Chicago’s approach to data center development while expanding protections for clean air, clean water, affordable energy, and the health and quality of life of Chicago residents. To read the entire press release regarding the Executive Order, please click here.

Important Announcements

Bike the Drive - September 6th

DuSable Lake Shore Drive will be closed to car traffic from Bryn Mawr to 57th St. for the annual Bike the Drive on Sunday, September 6th from 6:00 am to noon. On and off ramps will be barricaded to prevent car traffic. Inner Lake Shore Drive will remain open as well as other main through routes that run parallel to DuSable Lake Shore Drive. For more information visit www.bikethedrive.org.

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. 

Ye Live in Chicago

Thursday, September 3rd and Friday, September 4th at 8:00 pm


Chicago Fire vs. Inter Miami FC

Wednesday, September 9th at 7:30 pm


Chicago Football Classic

Saturday, September 12th at 3:00 pm


Chicago Fire vs. New England Revolution

Saturday, September 13th at 5:30 pm


Chicago Bears vs. Minnesota Vikings

Sunday, September 20th at noon


Chicago Bears vs. Philadelphia Eagles

Monday, September 28th at 7:15 pm


Neighborhood Market Grant Program

Through the Neighborhood Market Grant Program, the Chicago Department of Business Affairs and Consumer Protection, in partnership with Allies for Community Business, will provide one-time grants of up to $10,000 to small retail food businesses operating a physical storefront in priority geographies across Chicago. The program will focus on businesses that are both economic anchors and food access points in neighborhoods historically impacted by disinvestment. To learn more about the program, view eligibility requirements, and apply, please click here.


Grant Park Participatory Budget

The Chicago Park District will be engaging with constituents in the 3rd Ward to implement the first Participatory Budget Process at Grant Park. Between September 1-30 Chicagoans age 13 and older have an opportunity to help the Chicago Park District prioritize how capital funds will be spent in “Chicago’s Front Yard - Grant Park.”

 

Through the Park District’s Give Back initiative, a portion of revenue from large, multi-day events held in Grant Park is reinvested into capital improvements. Grant Park’s Participatory Budgeting (PB) process allows the community to help decide how these funds are invested in the park.

  

This year, community members will vote on three proposed projects for Grant Park:

  • Bathrooms at 9th & Columbus
  • Dog-Friendly Area Redesign at 9th & Columbus
  • Benches & Picnic Tables

 

The project receiving the most votes will be prioritized for funding through the Grant Park PB process. If the Bathrooms or Dog-Friendly Area Redesign project receives the most votes, PB funds will roll over to the next PB cycle to fully fund and complete the project, as the cost of these projects may exceed the amount currently available in PB funds.

 

There are two ways to vote:

  • Online
  • Paper ballot: Available at Maggie Daley Fieldhouse and Women's Park Fieldhouse

 

This is an opportunity for community members to directly help determine how funds are invested in Grant Park.


Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) Training Classes

Register for a Office of Emergency Management and Communications' Fall 2026 Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) training class. CERT is one of the best and most effective tools for creating resilient communities, ensuring Chicago neighborhoods are equipped to handle unexpected challenges from the grass roots. Classes will be hosted at OEMC (1411 W. Madison St.) every Tuesday and Thursday evening from 6:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m. starting September 15, 2026 through October 15, 2026.  


The CERT Program offers members of the public an opportunity to learn basic hands-on disaster

response techniques and life-saving skills to utilize in their own homes and neighborhoods, directly

strengthening Chicago’s community resiliency. This 100% volunteer program was developed by the Los Angeles Fire Department (LAFD) in 1985 and implemented nationally by FEMA in 1993. CERT members train for a minimum 27 hours of classroom and 3 hours hands-on practical skills. Sign up for classes here.


Volunteer to be Poll Worker or High School Election Judge

Democracy starts with you! Step up and serve as a poll worker or if you are in high school, an election judge, for the November 3rd, 2026 General Election! Poll workers help with setting up and managing polling places, providing quality customer service to all voters, verifying voter registrations, and issuing ballots. They can also explain how the voting process works by demonstrating how voting machines are used and detailing voting procedures.


High school election judges must first complete in-person training, and can earn up to $230 for serving on Election Day. To qualify, judges must live in Cook County, be a Junior or Senior in high school, be a U.S. Citizen, have at least a 3.0 GPA, and receive written approval from their parent/guardian AND principal. Questions, email [email protected] or call 312-269-7985.


To learn more or sign up to be a poll watcher or high school election judge, please visit pollworker.chicagoelections.gov.


Become a CCPSA District Councilor

Interested in becoming an elected Community Commission for Public Safety and Accountability District Councilor? Join an upcoming info session to learn how to represent your neighbors on policing and public safety issues. Info sessions will be held every other Wednesday at 12:30 pm (bit.ly/2027ElectionsLunch), and at 6:00 pm (bit.ly/2027DCElectionsDinner), as well as selected Saturdays at 11:00 am (bit.ly/2027DCElectionsSaturday).


CPD Superintendent Search Feedback Opportunity

The Community Commission for Public Safety and Accountability (CCPSA) is conducting a nationwide search for Chicago's next Superintendent of Police. They are inviting residents, police officers, community organizations, business, faith leaders, and stakeholders from across Chicago to share what qualities, priorities and leadership they want to see in the next Superintendent. Visit bit.ly/SupSearch26 to submit your feedback.


APL EDU Fall 20026 Session

Interested in learning behind-the-scenes theater tech, or curious about designing and building things for your community? Applications are officially live for the 2026 Fall session. Apply today for the Design Apprenticeship Program or the Backstage Production Program! Sessions run between September 28th and December 12th. Interviews are scheduled between September 2nd and September 15th. To learn more about the individual programs or to apply, click here.


Join the Band

Intonation, located at 3633 S. State St. in the 3rd Ward, offers free music programs for youth grades 3-12. Sign up at www.intonationmusic.org to get your music career started!


Gamers' Zone: Teen Gaming

Chill out with games for the Nintendo Switch, board games, or card games. For tweens and teens ages 10 to 17 years old.


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

When: Tuesday, September 1st, 8th, 15th, 22nd, and 29th from 4:30 pm to 7:00 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 event broken down into two four-hour sessions. Register here.


When: Wednesdays, September 2nd, 9th, 16th and 23rd at 6:00 pm


WITS Workout

Join WITS for fun brain teasers, games, and puzzles that get you thinking. WITS Workout combines intellectually stimulating exercises, social interaction, and education about brain health in a friendly, engaging, way for older adults! Each monthly session will start with a fun activity to help participants get to know each other. Then there will be a short brain training topic. The session will wrap up with a group activity. Registration required at www.dphcounseling.com.


Where: Chicago Bee Library (3647 S. State St.)

When: Tuesday, September 8th at 11:00 am


After-School Science: Slime

Combine chemistry, play and creativity all in one stretchy science experiment. Create your own polymers and fun with slime!


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

when: Thursday, September 8th from 3:30 pm to 4:30 pm


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


The State of Illinois is Hiring

Are you interested in building a rewarding career with the State of Illinois? The State of Illinois is co-hosting an Application and Recruitment Event, presented by the Illinois Department of Central Management Services (CMS), Statewide Diversity & Inclusion, and Metropolitan Family Services Southeast. This hands-on workshop is designed to help job seekers successfully navigate the State of Illinois hiring process and receive personalized assistance from State recruitment professionals.


Where: Metropolitan Family Services Southeast (3062 E. 91st St,)

When: Thursday, September 10th from noon to 3:00 pm


Vaccine Clinic

The Chicago Department of Public Health is coming to the South Chicago Community Service Center. Catch up on your immunizations, it's free, safe and effective! Available vaccines include: influenza, 2025-26 COVID-19, and limited adult vaccines. Please register at tinyurl.com/38xy4tdf but walk-ins are also welcome!


Where: South Chicago Community Service Center (8650 S. Commercial Ave.)

When: Friday, September 11th from 9:00 am to 1:00 pm


Printers Row Lit Fest

Presented by the Near South Planning Board, the Midwest's largest and longest-running free outdoor literary festival brings together more than 200 authors, journalists, poets and storytellers, offering something for readers of every age and interest. This year's lineup includes Chicago literary icon Scott Turow, and Geoff Bennett the Peabody Award-winning co-anchor of PBS NewsHour and author of Black Out Loud: The Revolutionary History of Black Comedy from Vaudeville to '90s Sitcoms. For the full schedule and list of authors and programs, visit www.PrintersRowLitFest.org.


Where: Printers Row District (Dearborn from Ida B. Wells to Polk St.)

When: Saturday, September 12th and Sunday, September 13th from 10:00 am to 6:00 pm


The Wabash Y Grand Welcoming

TRC welcomes the community back to the newly reopened historic Wabash YMCA! Explore the building's magnificent history, check out what is coming next, and join the marketplace launch to support black-owned businesses, local artists and other community organizations! More info is available at trcwabash.org/marketplace.


Where: Wabash YMCA (3763 S. Wabash Ave.)

When: Saturday, September 12th from 11:00 am to 4:00 pm


Vulnerability as Legacy

The songs that last — Robyn's "Dancing on My Own," Beyoncé's "Love On Top," Mariah Carey's "Fly Like a Bird," Raye's recent "I Know You're Hurting" — share something essential: they are honest to the point of discomfort. Join Chicago Critics Table Alum Britt Julious for an evening of exploration into why vulnerability in song is not just an artistic choice but the mechanism by which art lasts and legacy is born. The event will include a live DJ set, interactive stations, a panel discussion, and an after-event dance party. Sign up here.


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

When: Saturday, September 12th from 6:00 pm to 9:00 pm


Clif Wallace Big Band

Arts + Public Life’s longest-running program concludes its landmark 13th season on the Arts Lawn. Launched in 2013 to showcase both emerging and established Chicago musicians, First Monday Jazz has brought live performances to the lawn on the first Monday of every month. For their final session of the season, this year's series curator—renowned drummer and composer Clif Wallace II—takes the stage with his own Clif Wallace Big Band! More information is available here.


Where: The Arts Lawn (337 E. Garfield Blvd.)

When: Monday, September 14th from 6:00 pm to 8:30 pm


Infrastructure, Data and the Future Economy

South East Chicago Commission is hosting a symposium to explore how infrastructure, data, and emerging industries are transforming the regional economic landscape, and what this shift means for local communities, businesses, and workforce pathways. Tickets are available here.


Where: The Study Hotel (1227 E. 60th St.)

When: Wednesday, September 16th from 11:00 am to 1:00 pm


HBCU College Fair

Looking to learn more about attending a Historically Black College or University (HBCU)? Join the Imani Pearls Foundation for a workshop with financial aid information and food trucks! Register here.


Where: Greenwood Oasis (7621 S. Greenwood Ave.)

When: Saturday, September 26th from 10:00 am to 2:00 pm


Education and Training Group Citywide Career and Resource Fair

The Chicago Police Department is hosting a Citywide Career and Resource Fair that will offer career opportunities, community connections, education and training, and valuable resources. Click here to register.


Where: 1300 W. Jackson Blvd.

When: Saturday, September 26th from 11:00 am to 3:00 pm


Doing Business with the Park District

The Purchasing Department of the Chicago Park District (CPD) is hosting a series of Informational Sessions on Doing Business with the Park District. The Department of Purchasing is committed to assisting our vendor communities in creating an impact across this vibrant city. Representatives from Park District departments will be present to speak on items including contracting opportunities regarding Planning & Construction, Facility Management, and Natural Resources. Register here.


Where: South Shore Cultural Center (7059 S. South Shore Drive)

When: Wednesday, October 21st from 10:00 am to 2:00 pm

September 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: September 16th at 5:00 pm

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


Beat: 133

Date: September 16th at 6:00 pm

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


2nd District CAPS Meetings

Beat: 211

Date: September 14th at 6:00 pm

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


Beat: 213

Date: September 22nd at 6:00 pm

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


Beat: 221

Date: September 19th at 6:00 pm

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


Beat: 224

Date: September 24th at 6:00 pm

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


Beat: 225

Date: September 9th at 6:00 pm

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


Beat: 231

Date: September 17th at 6:00 pm

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


9th District CAPS Meetings

Beat: 915

Date: September 8th at 6:00 pm

Location: 9th District Station (3120 S. Halsted Ave.)


Beat: 925

Date: September 16th at 6:00 pm

Location: St. Gabriel Church (4522 S. Wallace)

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