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4243 N. Lincoln Ave. | info@chicago47.org | Office Hours: M-F 9am to 5pm 

October 25, 2013  
On this day in 1968, the City recognizes Jean Baptiste Pointe de Sable as the First Settler of Chicago.   
 
Dear Neighbor,

 

In December of 2012, I introduced an ordinance with Ald. Pat Dowell and Ald. Michele Smith to create an independent budget office for our City Council. The purpose of the ordinance was to create an office that would ensure an independent evaluation the annual budget, public policy proposals and public private partnerships. Had such an office been in existence in 2008, we could have prevented the passage of the parking meter deal. I am pleased to announce that after working with Chairman Carrie Austin and Mayor Emanuel, we have finalized a proposal to create an independent office, the Office of Financial Analysis. To ensure we captured best practices from around the country, we studied the enabling legislation for New York City's Independent Budget Office, Pittsburgh's Council Budget Office and San Diego's Independent Budget Analyst Office.

 

This office will provide the following:

  • a financial analysis of the mayor's proposed annual budget
  • an annual budget options report of potential cost saving reforms and efficiencies
  • a summary and analysis of the City's annual audit
  • a review of proposed public-private partnerships and asset leases
  • a review of the annual financial analysis
  • an analysis of rating agency actions
  • other analyses upon the request of the chairman of the Committee on the Budget and Government Operations

The proposed budget for this office is roughly $500,000 and will employ 6 staffers.

 

The creation of the Office of Financial Analysis represents a major reform in city government and I want to thank Mayor Emanuel and Chairman Austin for their partnership and leadership on this effort. I also want to thank Ald. Dowell and Ald. Smith for their leadership. They worked tirelessly to advance this proposal.

 

The creation of this office is supported by the Chicago Sun-Times, Chicago Tribune, and Laurence Msall from the Civic Federation.  

 

Finally, I want to thank 47th Ward Chief of Staff Charna Epstein and Legislative Liaison Jim Poole for drafting the original ordinance. Both are also responsible for drafting the original TIF Accountability Ordinance. They are an amazing team!

 

TIF Accountability Ordinance

In July of this year, I passed the TIF Accountability Ordinance through City Council. This week, Congressman Mike Quigley cited the ordinance in his Chicago Tribune Op-Ed on TIF reform efforts:

 

"Perhaps most important, the TIF Accountability ordinance passed this summer puts many of the TIF panel's reforms into law so that subsequent administrations must follow the same level of transparency and accountability."

 

The ordinance requires the creation of an easily accessible online database where final project performance is measured against the original redevelopment agreement promises. Mayor Emanuel took the first steps toward implanting this important legislation by launching an online TIF portal last week. This portal is now accessible here(link). As the City implements the new TIF Accountability Ordinance there will be even more information available through this site. Ultimately, all of the following information will be found on the TIF Portal:

  • Project location by address and ward
  • Total budget of project
  • Total TIF subsidy
  • Total TIF subsidy as a percentage of project budget
  • Project start date
  • Project completion date
  • Total jobs agreed to in redevelopment agreement
  • Total jobs created
  • Public capital improvements completed as part of project
  • MBE/WBE and job/community hiring commitments met (if applicable)
  • Total sales tax creation (if applicable)
  • Pre-development property tax generated
  • Post-development property tax generated

This new portal, once fully updated, will give Chicagoans the ability to analyze how TIF dollars are being spent. It will increase the accountability of TIF recipients who do not meet the expectations set forth in their redevelopment agreement and create greater transparency in the TIF program across the City.

 

And again, I want to thank Mayor Emanuel for his partnership on the TIF Accountability Ordinance.

 

Have a great weekend!
 
Sincerely,
Ameya


This Week...
47th Ward Health & Wellness Fair
Keep Leaves Off the Street
City Budget Town Hall Meetings
Quigley CEDA Event
CPS ODLSS Event
Welcome New Business, New Day
Welcome New Business, Chez Simo
Dara Reports
AT&T Now Hiring
Homework Help at Lincoln Belmont Library
Infrastructure Update
Nightmares on Lincoln Ave
Chase Park Halloween
American Legion Burger Night
Spirits of Ravenswood
Save the Date: Circus in the Parks
Northcenter Trick or Treat
LSRCC Halloween
Rental Housing Expo
Ravenswood Community Orchestra
RCC Annual Meeting
APCC Job Event
McPherson Halloween Party
Pancake Breakfast
NPES Open House
Pilgrim Lutheran Trivia
Welles Park Aquatic Fundraiser
Henna @ Sulzer
PMI Benefit
Remembering Haymarket
Art to the People
Roots Salon Events
German School Lanternfest
Ravenswood Events Center Concert
Yoga Fundraiser for Bell School
Community Events
Final Thoughts
Alderman Ameya Pawar
Upcoming
Ward Nights
Wednesdays
5:00pm to 7:30pm   

November 20 


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On Chicago47.org
2013-2014 Residential Pickup Permits Now Available

If you drive a pickup truck or van for your personal use, you need a residential permit to park legally overnight on a residential street.

 

Simply bring your truck/van into the 47th Ward Office.  Note your city sticker and license plate numbers.  47th Ward staff will ensure the truck is not used for commercial use and issue you a permit.  

 

More information is available here.  If you have any questions please contact the 47th Ward Office.   

2013 Street Sweeping
The 2013 Street Sweeping Schedule is now available on our website.



Welcome New Business: New Day, 4308 N. Lincoln Avenue       

 Dr. Katie Ray graduated from Life College of Chiropractic in Marietta, Georgia in 2012, and opened New Day at 4308 N Lincoln Avenue this past April. She is thrilled to be living her dream of opening her own chiropractic office in the 47th Ward. Dr. Katie specializes in providing a special gentle type of chiropractic that helps people who are stressed out, have aches and pains, and would like a longer term solution to their health concerns. Neighbors are welcome to stop by on November 2, Saturday from 10AM to 2PM for "Happy Healthy Holidays," a health and lifestyle fair and benefiting The Common Pantry. Guests will receive relaxing and complimentary! Sessions, and informative consultations from Chicago's top health and lifestyle practitioners. Natural products and supplements are also available for purchase. We will also have a raffle for a chance to win free treatments and other wellness products. The $10 suggested donation to The Common Pantry will be collected at the door. See www.newdaynsa.com/calendar for more info.

 
Welcome New Business: Chez Simo Bistro, 1968 W. Lawrence:

A dark and handsome, romantic Chez Simo, this new bistro is a BYOB hideaway in the 47th Ward serving up classic French dishes every night of the week. Enjoy favorites such as French onion soup, mussels Provençale or Marini ere, or explore some regional cuisine like terrine de foie gras, escargot à la Bourgogne, coq au vin, steak frites, steak au poivre, lamb shank couscous and creme brulee. Come relax and spend some time in the Parisian-style interior created by Moroccan French decorator Rashida K. Contact info: 773-334-7466, 773-865-7466 or www.chezsimobistro.com.

Dara Reports

We are having a spooktacular Halloween here in the 47th Ward!  When driving around the neighborhood please be aware of the many Block Parties that are being planned for this weekend and on Halloween itself. If you and your neighbors are hosting a party please close your street to traffic with very reflective materials. Block Parties on Halloween are closed to cars, but are still open to trick or treaters. Be Safe and Have Fun! 

 

Halloween Events

 

Lakeview Chamber of Commerce Annual Halloween Activities. Sunday, October 27th from 1pm-4pm. Grab the kiddos for Trick-or-Treating at Southport businesses between Belmont and Irving Park. The Pumpkin Party features pumpkin decorating, moon jumps, balloon artistry, face painting, games and prizes! Party held in the street on Southport between Byron and Grace. Admission is free.

 

­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­Lincoln Scared and Ravenswoooood: Trick or treating and a whole lot more in Lincoln Square and Ravenswood, 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Saturday. Participating businesses along Lincoln Avenue, Rockwell Street, Western Avenue, Lawrence Avenue and Ravenswood Avenue will have treats for the youngsters. Tricks include pumpkin decorating and costume contests for humans and pets. The complete schedule of events can be found on the Lincoln Square Ravenswood Chamber of Commerce website.

 

 A Haunting at Lincoln Square Lanes: A clear sign that Halloween's not just for kids anymore - Lincoln Square Lanes' Saturday bash runs til 3 a.m. The fun kicks off at 7 p.m. with live music from North Branch. Drink specials, a costume contest, DJ set and bowling until 2 a.m. will keep the party going all night.

 

Trick or Treat Northcenter, 10 a.m.-1 p.m. Saturday. Head to North Center's Town Square, 4100 N. Damen Ave., to pick up a map of businesses participating in the neighborhood's trick-or-treating event. Return to Town Square at noon for a costume contest, with prizes for kids and best-costumed family.

 

Chase Park 4701 N. Ashland; Check out the Corn Maze Halloween Jamboree Sunday 10/27 12-2pm Their event is great for all ages!

 

Join in the 15th annual RVN Halloween Parade and Party on October 27th, from 2-4 PM. Following the beloved parade, complete with a Special Surprise Guest, Lane Tech Marching Band and trick-or-treating at Roscoe businesses, Audubon teachers will be overseeing fun, spooky activities for all ages. From tents set up along Roscoe (weather permitting) to dancing, costume-contests, and photo vignettes they'll be something for everyone. The parade will start its trek from Oakley and Roscoe at 2PM sharp! Come join the fun! It's all FREE courtesy of Roscoe Village Neighbors!

*Special Note: Don't forget to bring your cameras! There will be several fun and spooky areas set up specifically to capture photos of this special day!

 

Plan Your Visit: Free Presentations

Saturday, October 26th Health & Wellness Event

 

10:00  Pets Bring Health & Wellness        Tree House Animal Shelter

10:30  Yoga mini-class                              Mary Kay McCaw

11:00  Health Care Power of Attorney      Kathryn Chapman

11:30  Fostering Emotional Health           C4     

12:00   All about Acupuncture                  Natalie Shuler

12:30  Nutritious Choices                         Sarah Calamaro

1:00   Aging As You Wish                        Karen Kolb - Age With Ease

1:30   Taiji Fit mini-class                          SAS-Sanford Stark

2:00   Yoga, Art and Health                      Rachel Lochocki 

 

Many thanks to all of you who cleaned out your homes, attics, basements and garages; your donations to our recycling event were very appreciated. Once again you filled a 16' truck with unwanted computers, televisions, etc. The folks at Open Books"were blown away by the amount of books collected". Working Bikes said they never see the number of bikes and sewing machines as we received from a first event.

 

Thanks goes to B.L. Duke, Erick Norton, our ward superintendent, Andres Hernandez, our neighbor, C3 volunteer, head of the Computer Department at Von Steuben and students from Von, Lake View, Lane Tech, and the Neighborhood Boys and Girls Club. We couldn't have such a successful event without their help and all of you!

School Open Houses

 

ST. BENEDICT PREPARATORY SCHOOL, 3920 N. Leavitt Street 

High School: Sunday, November 3, 12noon - 2PM and Wednesday, November 20,  6-8PM

Kindergarten: Monday, October 28, 6:30-8:30PM

Preschool: Monday, November 4, 6-7:30PM

 

Applications are currently being accepted at all grade levels. For more information, contact Ms. Rachel Waldron, Head of Early Childhood (773-588-7851), Ms. Janet Olson, Grades K-5 (773-509-3814), or Mr. Erik Petersen, Grade 6-12 (773-509-3831).

 

PEIRCE ELEMENTARY SCHOOL OF INTERNATIONAL STUDIES, 1423 W. Bryn Mawr Avenue Meet the staff and learn more about their programs on November 14 Thursday 8:30-10:00AM.

 

German International School Chicago 

  • Thursday, November 7 from 10:00 am - 12:00 pm
  • Thursday, November 21 from 10:00 am - 12:00 pm

Montrose Green Clean-Up and Garden Closing

Sunday, October 27th, 2013

Starting at 9am and going to 5pm, if needed.

It's been a great two years at Montrose Green and now it's time to clean up. Everything must be removed as it's time for this generously loaned land to be prepared for other uses in its next stage of life.  Sign up for a two hour shift, and enjoy one last day in the garden!   Volunteers should bring gloves, shovels, boots and dress according to weather. There is NO rain date so people should come prepared to work no matter the weather.

 

Do you have any leftover chicken wire?  We are in need of chicken wire needed for an art project to be completed in October.  We need approximately 15 x 3 feet but will take whatever we can get!  Will pick up. Need it by Sat. Oct 26.  Call Lin at 773 549-3958 or e-mail at  pmidance@gmail.com

 

Forward Chicago, a new, grass-roots, all volunteer non-profit, is for folks in and around the 47th Ward. The mission is to build a stronger community by connecting neighbors, businesses and local organizations. They aim to create a neighborhood where people of all ages are active, engaged and influential. Forward Chicago takes advantage of the many resources available in our neighborhood, along with new initiatives sparked by members to develop a programming calendar. Whether you are interested in meeting folks and enjoying a meal at a neighborhood restaurant or in sewing, crafts, chess, card games, bird-watching or learning a new skill - Forward Chicago has something for you. 

 

Check out what's going on at www.forwardchicago.org.

 

Please check out the interview Alderman Pawar gave to one of our own 47th Ward grown-up kids. Three generations of Arden's family attended Bell School and she was in the very first graduating class from North Side Prep. Your Chicago podcast is hosted by Arden Joy, Chicago native and Cubs fan, and Stefania Rudd, Windy City transplant and Sox fan. Their goal is simple: get to know Chicago, one person at a time. Join them for an intimate chat with the unsung heroes who make Chicago a toddlin' town and a world class city.

New episodes are released twice monthly via iTunes, Stitcher, and the podcast website at http://www.yourchicagopodcast.com 

   

Attention Gardeners! Vinca for you! It's a perfect ground cover for your parkway or corners. Little violet flowers bloom all spring, grows well around tree roots, doesn't need much sun and loves to spread. The only catch is you need to dig it up. Contact: Dara 773-868-4747

 

"Adopt" your sewers and catch basins.  Keep the tops clear of leaves and litter.

This will cut down on flooding. If the drain appears to be clogged after removing leaves from the surface, and water does not drain within 12 hours of rainfall please call our office so we can get the sewer on the schedule for cleaning.  To learn more about what you can do for storm water management please click here.

 

German International School Chicago Fall 2013 Open Houses

  • Thursday, November 7 from 10:00 am - 12:00 pm
  • Thursday, November 21 from 10:00 am - 12:00 pm

For parents who are unable to attend the Open House events, private tours are available upon request. Please contact info@germanschoolchicago.com to set up an appointment.

 

Donations Needed!  Our three local pantries will distribute items to our neighbors (and their beloved pets) in need.

  • Personal care/hygiene items: toothpaste, soap, deodorant, shampoo, etc.
  • Pet food - especially canned cat food, litter, toys, treats, collars, leashes and beds.
  • Winter coats, gloves, hats and scarves for all ages.
Your friends, church group, scout troop, business or school can organize a drive! Let us know how we can help. You may bring your donations to our office Mon-Fri, 9am-5pm
 

Perceptual Motion's silent auction is one of the highlights of our benefit with everyone a winner! Volunteers are sought for the silent auction committee for their Wine and Chocolate benefit  on Saturday, November 9, 2013.  They need people to assemble and package auction items, write descriptions for bid sheets, set up the display at the event and solicit auction items.  Contact Lin Shook at 773 549-3958 or pmidance@gmail.com.  Like food? They also need people to serve on the food committee.  Contact Wilma Stevens at 773 274-2754.

 

Sulzer needs your old games.  Thanks to our neighbors who have donated games for the Sulzer's Game Night!  If you have games that your family no longer uses, please bring them to the 47th Ward Office or to Sulzer Library. Their ever-popular "Game Night" could use a few more board games like Sorry, Chess, Life, Uno, Jenga, Rummy Cube, etc.   



47th Ward Infrastructure Update 

Check out the infrastructure map on our webpage!

 

Lawrence Avenue Streetscape

The Lawrence Avenue Streetscape is underway.  We have posted a draft of the streetscape design on our website if you would like to review the details.    

 

Brick paver installation is underway.  Some work on the Claremont Plaza and adjacent alley was delayed to confirm an engineering issue which has been resolved.

 

Work on the sidewalks continues on the south side of Lawrence, on schedule to be completed to Damen by the end of November.  Next year the project will be completed from Damen to Clark St.  Landscaping features will be installed on the whole stretch in 2014.   

 

Irving Park Streetscape

The last phase of the Irving Park Streetscape is coming to a close. All that remains is some follow-up repairs we have been waiting on. Now that the new lights are on, we are being assured that these last repairs will be made by the end of November. Some remaining planting may take place in the spring.

 

Water Main for 3800 - 3900 N. Seeley (Grace to Irving Park)

City Crews from the Dept. of Water Management have begun work replacing the 1895 water main under Seeley Ave. from Grace to Irving Park.  Parking restrictions will be posted and are enforced during designated times M-F.  To see the residents' notice, please click here . 

 

Western Avenue Roadway Repairs 

Western Avenue from George Street to School Street will be reciving spot repairs over the next few weeks. This is part of the Chicago Department of Transportation's Arterial Street Resurfacing - Term North Area Project, in the 47th Ward. 

 

Construction has begun.  The work will include ADA sidewalk, curb and gutter removal and replacement, milling the existing asphalt pavement, asphalt paving, bus pad concrete pavement construction, 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  December 16, 2013.

 

NOTE: NO DEMOLITION OR REPAIRS WILL BE DONE TO THE OVERPASS AT THIS TIME.  Demolition of the Belmont overpass and reconfiguration of the streetscape has been planned and is awaiting funding approvals.  This is not expected to begin until 2015.  

 

METRA Traffic Closures and Detours Around Ravenswood Avenue 

  • Leland Ave Full Closure will be up until April, 2014.
  • Ravenswood from Lawrence to Leland Ave Full Closure will be up until April, 2014 on the west side of Ravenswood.
  • Ravenswood (west side) from Sunnyside to Berteau Full Closure until November 22, 2013 
  • Montrose Lane Restriction at Ravenswood until November 8, 2013

For more information, visit the infrastructure section of our website or contact Bill Higgins at bill@chicago47.org or 773-549-2745.  



 
 
 



 



 


 

 





Community Events
For details on the events listed below, please see the events section of our website.

 

October 25   Friday   5:00 PM - 8:00 PM

Burger Night at Tattler Post #973

American Legion Tattler Post #973, 4355 N. Western Avenue

 

October 25   Friday   6:00 PM - 9:00 PM

"Will You Step Into My Parlour?" Nicole Hollander's Living Room

LillStreet Art Center, 4401 N. Ravenswood Avenue

 

October 25   Friday   7:00 PM - 8:30 PM

Midnight Circus at Welles Park (Friday)

Welles Park, 2333 W. Sunnyside Avenue

 

October 25   Friday   7:00 PM - 10:00 PM

Haunted Maze at Chase Park (Friday)

Chase Park, 4701 N. Ashland Avenue

 

October 25   Friday   8:00 PM - 10:00 PM

The Nightscape: A Play for the Brave

Luther Memorial Church, 2500 W. Wilson Avenue

 

October 26   Saturday   9:30 AM - 2:30 PM

47th Ward Health & Wellness

Sulzer Library, 4455 N. Lincoln Avenue

 

October 26   Saturday   10:00 AM - 11:00 AM

Halloween Trick-or-Treating and Costume Contest

Northcenter Town Square, 4100 N. Damen Avenue

 

October 26   Saturday   10:00 AM - 12:30 PM

Trick-or-Treat in Northcenter

Northcenter Town Square, 4100 N. Damen Avenue

 

October 26   Saturday   2:00 PM - 5:00 PM

Midnight Circus at Welles Park (Saturday)

Welles Park, 2333 W. Sunnyside Avenue

 

October 26   Saturday   7:00 PM - 9:00 PM

The Nightscape: A Play for the Brave Oct. 26/Fri. - 27/Sat.

Luther Memorial Church, 2500 W. Wilson Avenue

 

October 26   Saturday   7:00 PM - 10:00 PM

Haunted Maze at Chase Park (Saturday)

Chase Park, 4701 N. Ashland Avenue

 

October 26   Saturday   9:00 PM - 1:00 AM

Essanay Center Gala Masquerade Ball

Essanay Center, St. Agustine College, 1345 W. Argyle Street

 

October 27   Sunday   12:00 PM - 2:00 PM

Halloween Jamboree at Chase Park

Chase Park, 4701 N. Ashland Avenue

 

October 27   Sunday   1:00 PM - 4:00 PM

Midnight Circus at Welles Park (Sunday)

Welles Park, 2333 W. Sunnyside Avenue

 

October 29   Tuesday   6:00 PM - 8:30 PM

RCC Annual Public Meeting

Dolce Casa Cafe, 4947 N. Damen Avenue

 

October 29   Tuesday   7:00 PM - 9:00 PM

47th Ward Town Hall on the 2014 City Budget & other issues

St. Benedict Parish, Beavan Hall, 2215 W. Irving Park Road

 

November 1   Friday   8:00 PM - 10:00 PM

The Nightscape: A Play for the Brave

Luther Memorial Church, 2500 W. Wilson Avenue

 

November 2   Saturday   8:00 AM - 12:00 PM

Is Your Child Receiving Special Education Services at CPS?

Lane Technical High School, 2501 W. Addison Street

 

November 2   Saturday   9:00 AM - 1:00 PM

Pancake Breakfast at Ravenswood UMC

Ravenswood Fellowship UMC, 4511 N. Hermitage Avenue

 

November 2   Saturday   6:00 PM - 10:00 PM

Team Trivia Night at Pilgrim Lutheran School

Pilgrim Lutheran School, 4300 N Winchester Avenue

 

November 2   Saturday   7:00 PM - 9:00 PM

The Nightscape: A Play for the Brave Nov. 2/Fri. & 3/Sat.

Luther Memorial Church, 2500 W. Wilson Avenue

 

November 6   Wednesday   7:00 PM - 9:00 PM

47th Ward Town Hall on the 2014 City Budget & other issues

McPherson School, auditorium, 4728 N. Wolcott Avenue

 

November 8   Friday   6:00 PM - 8:00 PM

Cloudy with a Chance of Meatballs, movie at McPherson

McPherson Elementary School, auditorium thru door 3, 4728 N. Wolcott Avenue

 

November 9   Saturday   9:00 AM - 3:00 PM

Flea Market at Pilgrim Lutheran

Pilgrim Lutheran Church auditorium (lower level), 1952 W. Cullom Avenue

 

November 9   Saturday   10:00 AM - 4:00 PM

Holiday Delight/Kodomo Matsuri (Children's Festival)

Japanese American Service Committee, 4427 N. Clark Street

 

November 9   Saturday   7:00 PM - 10:00 PM

ArtReach Fall Fundraiser "Art to the People"

Lillstreet Loft, 4437 N. Ravenswood Avenue

 

November 9   Saturday   7:00 PM - 10:00 PM

a taste of Wine + Chocolate benefit for Perceptual Motion

St. Andrew's Greek Orthodox Church, 5649 N. Sheridan Road

 

November 10   Sunday   8:00 AM - 1:00 PM

Boy Scout All-You-Can-Eat Pancake Breakfast, Troop 894

Queen of Angels lower church, 2330 W. Sunnyside Avenue

 

November 10   Sunday   2:30 PM - 3:30 PM

6th Annual Laternenfest and St. Martin's Parade

DANK Haus German American Cultural Center, 4740 N. Western Avenue

 

November 16   Saturday   9:00 AM - 1:00 PM

Northside Housing Fair

Harry S. Truman College, Front Lobby, 1145 W. Wilson Avenue

 

November 16   Saturday   2:00 PM - 3:00 PM

Author Signing: Hidden History of Ravenswood & Lake View

Sulzer Regional Library Auditorium, 4455 N. Lincoln Avenue  

 

Want to put your community event in our newsletter?  Check the guidelines on our website.

CAPS Meetings.  If you would like to get to participate in community policing or express concerns about crime happening in your area, please consider attending your beat meetings.  A schedule of beat meetings is available on our website.   If you have any questions about CAPS or need additional information, please contact Jim Poole at 773-549-4462 or jim@chicago47.org.  

19th District CAPS Office (All areas of the 47th Ward south of Lawrence)
312-744-0064 or CAPS019District@chicagopolice.org.

20th District CAPS Office (All areas of the 47th Ward north of Lawrence)
312-742-8770 or CAPS020District@chicagopolice.org.
Final Thoughts
Have a suggestion or comment for Ameya or the 47th Ward Team?  Please contact us at 773-868-4747 or info@chicago47.org.