Karen Winters - Chicago, IL

 

Downtown residents are always ready to support new restaurants, bars, galleries and other small businesses.  But let's face it, as exciting as downtown living can be, parking can often be a challenge.  Business owners in the 2nd Ward who would like to have a 15 minute or 30 minute Standing Zone front of their location can apply for one through the website for the 2nd Ward Alderman.

1. Go to the website for  2nd Ward Alderman, Chicago2ndWard.com
   
2. Click on the  link that says "For Businesses"
3. Click on the  link that says "Forms and Applications"
4. Scroll down until you see the link for "Loading Zone and Standing Zone Application"

Complete the form and take at least 2 photos of the space where would like the Standing Zone.  Drop the form off in person at the 2nd Ward Alderman's office, at 429 S Dearborn. 

The Alderman's office will submit it to the City Council and it will go through review by the Department of Transportation and the Committee on Traffic and Safety.  If your request is approved, you will be billed according to your request.  Fees could include:

• $70 per sign and 25 feet of space*
• $7 for additional feet, (only if it is available)*
• $100 if parking meters will need to be removed in order to honor your request*

 

*Information deemed accurate, but subject to change.  Please verify rates during your request.

 

Office Location for the 2nd Ward Alderman

429 S Dearborn, Chicago, IL 60605

Being self-employed, I sometimes miss upcoming holidays until they are almost here and the buzz starts in the office about schools schedules, parades or other events. One such holiday that snuck up on me is the the national holiday to honor the birthday of the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King. Monday, January 17th will mark the 25 year anniversay of a day to remember the legacy of Dr. King. It falls just after his birthday, which is on January 15th.

I also did not realize that there was a formal Day of Service that takes place in conjunction with Dr. King's birthday. The National Day of Service began in 1994 as a way of honoring the legacy of Dr. King with "a day on, not a day off." If you would like to find a service project in your community you can visit the website for The MLK Day of Service.

Photo Credit: Carboindex

Residents of Chicago's South Loop are served by several civic organizations. Together they provide programs, services and volunteer opportunities to help enhance the quality of life around the South Loop and forums to address issues affecting homeowners, renters and student housing residents.

This afternoon, one of the organizations, South Loop Neighbors, met to plan their 2011 schedule of events. This year will see the return of such popular events as LoftWalk, The LitFest, (formerly the Printer's Row Book Fair), and music showcases. Funds from these and other events not only help South Loop Neighbors provide programs and services for residents, but also to support to agencies which serve the homeless and others in need around the community.

2010 year-end homes sales, (citywide),
per the Chicago MLS system:

Single Family Homes

Number Sold 48,541

Average Sales Price $252,699

Average Days On Market 157

Avg% Sales Price to List Price 94%

Condos, Co-Ops & Townhomes

Number Sold 24,859

Average Sales Price $232,963

Average Days On Market 171

Avg% Sales Price to List Price 96%

For more information on buying or selling a Chicago condo or home, call me at 312-725-4498.

One of my colleagues, Monique, sent out an email about a fundraiser for her friend's grandson. Little Sebastian Milka has leukemia and is in immediate need of a bone marrow transplant. Since none of his family members are matches, one of Monique's other friends is hosting a fundraiser to offset medical costs and testing costs.

A "Spa Soiree" is planned for Thursday, January 13th at Chicago Illuminating Company,
19 East 21st Street in Chicago.

• General Admission is a requested donation of $45 and includes unlimited spa services from 7-10pm.

• VIP Admission is a requested donation of $200 and is from 5-10pm. VIP guests will have 2 additional hours to take part in unlimited spa services, including botox.
  
  • Botox is not offered with General Admission.

Refreshments include appetizers, mini-desserts and "spa-tinis."

Register here to attend and support this very worthy cause. For more information or to make a donation, contact fundraiser organizer Stacey Roney at stacey@beautyoncall.com. Please keep Sebastian in your prayers. If you are unable to attend the fundraiser, any donations would be greatly appreciated.