Earth-a-palooza
At this eco-friendly family fun fest hosted by Cook County Commissioner Josina Morita and community partners, join in an array of activities including guided walks, Junior Rangers program, bird watching, touch-a-truck, tree climb, crafts and visit from Brookfield Zoo.
3rd Ward Resource Fair
Alderman Pat Dowell is welcoming 3rd Ward residents to her annual Resource Fair! Attendees will be able to access important government resources and receive paper shredding, electronic recycling, drug takeback, and other services.
MWRD Commissioner Precious Brady-Davis’ office will be tabling and providing MWRD publications and educational resources to 3rd Ward residents.
Calumet Water Reclamation Plant Open House
The MWRD will host an open house at the Calumet Water Reclamation Plant in conjunction with Chicago Water Week on Saturday, May 10, from 10 a.m. until 2 p.m. The public may stop by without advanced reservations to learn how the MWRD recovers resources and transforms water.
All ages are welcome. Please wear closed-toe shoes.
Reservations are not required.
More information can be found at https://mwrd.org/events/mwrd-open-house-1
MWRD's 2025 Small Business Summit scheduled for September 9
Sign up today to be among the first to receive important summit updates. Don’t miss your chance to participate in what promises to be one of 2025's top vendor outreach events. Mark your calendar for Tuesday, September 9, 2025, at Malcolm X College, 1900 W Jackson Blvd, Chicago, IL.
Women Protecting Women: Strategies for Personal and Internet Security
The District will celebrate Women’s History Month on Thursday, March 27 from noon to 1 p.m. with an event focused on the theme “Women Protecting Women.” This event will feature speakers discussing everyday personal care and protection as well as the broader implications of cybersecurity. The discussion will highlight the unique challenges women face in today’s security landscape and provide actionable solutions to help them stay informed and empowered.
Ribbon Cutting at Lake Katherine permeable parking lot
The District is invited to participate in a ribbon cutting event for the Lake Katherine Nature Center and Botanic Gardens permeable paver commuter parking lot in Palos Heights on Tuesday, March 25, at 12 p.m. Lake Katherine Board Chair Paul Kubik and the Lake Katherine Board of Directors and staff, including Director and Chief Naturalist Gareth Blakesley, are scheduled to participate along with Palos Heights Mayor Robert Straz and Palos Heights officials and invited guests from the Illinois General Assembly and partners from the Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT).
African Americans and Labor: MWRD celebrates Black History Month
The Metropolitan Water Reclamation District of Greater Chicago (MWRD) celebrated Black History Month by honoring the invaluable contributions of African Americans in the workforce.
MWRD commissioners honor speakers and honorees at the MWRD’s annual Black History Month event. Front row (L-R): Irma Holloway, MWRD Commissioner Beth McElroy Kirkwood, Fletcher J. Holmes, Jr., MWRD President Kari K. Steele, Marcus Jordan, MWRD Precious Brady-Davis, and Dr. David A. Peterson, Jr. Back row, (L-R): MWRD Commissioner Yumeka Brown, Vice President Theresa Flynn, Jonathan Jones, MWRD Commissioner Sharon Waller and Joseph K. Wells.
On February 20, the MWRD hosted a special evening event recognizing this year’s national Black History Month theme, “African Americans and Labor.” The celebration highlighted the lasting impact of Black workers throughout history, emphasizing their role in shaping the labor movement, driving progress, and strengthening the nation. Watch the video.
After the Shea Butta Band featuring Dawn Walker, vocalist, Davaughn Nicholas, and Marlen Bass performed the Black National Anthem, Dr. David A. Peterson Jr., president and executive director of the National A. Philip Randolph Pullman Porter Museum, served as the keynote speaker and shared insights on the legacy of African American labor movements, particularly the influence of the Brotherhood of Sleeping Car Porters and their role in civil rights activism. He emphasized the importance of preserving and learning from Black labor history.
“The sacrifices and struggles of Black labor pioneers laid the foundation for many of the rights and protections workers enjoy today. It is our duty to honor their legacy by ensuring continued progress in workforce equity and economic justice,” said Dr. Peterson.
This year’s celebration also featured a panel of union leaders who provided insightful discussions on labor, diversity, and economic empowerment:
Irma Holloway, chief operating officer for Phoenix CCI and executive director for Black Contractors Owners and Executives, served as emcee and discussed the importance of creating pathways for Black entrepreneurs in construction and infrastructure industries.
Fletcher J. Holmes, Jr., business agent and political director for Ironworkers Local 63, addressed the challenges and opportunities for Black workers in skilled trades and the importance of union representation.
Jonathan Jones, director of diversity for the Mid-America Carpenters Regional Council, spoke on diversity initiatives and programs aimed at increasing Black representation in carpentry and related fields.
Marcus Jordan, DEIA outreach coordinator for Operating Engineers Local 150 and the Indiana Illinois Iowa Foundation for Fair Contracting, provided insights into workforce development and the role of unions in fostering equitable employment opportunities.
Joseph Wells, DE&I business representative for the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers, Local 134, emphasized the significance of apprenticeship programs and training opportunities for underrepresented groups.
“Our Black History Month program serves as a powerful reminder of the resilience and leadership of Black Americans in the labor movement,” said MWRD President Kari K. Steele. “Their contributions have shaped industries and communities, creating opportunities for future generations. We are proud to honor their legacy and remain committed to fostering inclusivity in all aspects of our work.”
MWRD Commissioner Yumeka Brown echoed these sentiments. “The labor movement and the fight for economic justice are deeply intertwined with Black history. This month, we recognize and celebrate those who have paved the way for equity and inclusion in the workforce. The MWRD is dedicated to continuing this progress by supporting opportunities for all.”
In addition to the evening event, the MWRD also raised the Pan-African flag on Feb. 3, at the Barbara J. McGowan Main Office Building and all treatment plants, symbolizing the MWRD’s commitment to honoring Black heritage and contributions. Watch the video.
The MWRD remains committed to fostering diversity, equity, and inclusion in its workforce and throughout the communities it serves.
Nicholas J. Melas Centennial Fountain Reopening
Supporters for clean water lined the north bank of the Chicago River with Metropolitan Water Reclamation District of Greater Chicago (MWRD) officials to celebrate the reopening of an iconic landmark where the city’s prized lakefront meets the river and soaring skyline.
After completing extensive renovations, MWRD commissioners were joined by city leaders to reopen the Nicholas J. Melas Centennial Fountain on Aug. 16 to again captivate onlookers to the fountain and its cannon spraying an arc across the main stem of the Chicago River. Watch the ceremony here.
President Kari K. Steele and the MWRD Board of Commissioners welcomed special guests, including 2nd Ward Ald. Brian Hopkins, 27th Ward Ald. Walter Burnett, Jr., 42nd Ward Ald. Brendan Reilly, Chicago Department of Water Management Commissioner Randy Conner, Elizabeth Melas, the daughter of former MWRD Board president for whom the fountain is named, and architect Dirk Lohan, under the fountain at 400 N. McClurg Court for remarks during the reopening ceremony.
State Rep. Kam Buckner's 3rd Annual Back to School Event
State Rep. Kam Buckner, D-Chicago, is partnering with Near North Health, a leading provider of managed care services in Illinois, to host a back-to-school event to provide local families with free resources before the school year starts. The event will be held at Ellis Park, on 3520 South Cottage Grove in Chicago on Tuesday, August 13, from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. State Rep. Kimberly du Buclet, D-Chicago; Cook County Commissioner Bill Lowry; state Sen. Robert Peters; and Municipal Water Reclamation District Commissioner Precious Brady-Davis are co-hosting.
“With rising costs creating new challenges for our community, I will do everything in my power to relieve economic burdens working families are facing,” Buckner said. “I appreciate the widespread
services my colleagues and vendors are providing to help their communities. There will be a comprehensive range of opportunities for assistance available and I encourage everyone to attend.”
The 3rd Annual Back to School Event highlighting school aged children, pre-k through 12th grades within the 26th District and Chicagoland. The event is intended to provide children and families free resources such as immunizations, health screenings, social services and mental health assistance. Free haircuts will also be available.
State Senator Mattie Hunter's Family Health and Fitness Fair
State Senator Mattie Hunter celebrated her 20th Family Health and Fitness Fair on Saturday, August 3, 2024, empowering residents with free health screenings and streamlined access to local and state services. The Metropolitan Water Reclamation District of Greater Chicago, Commissioners Mariyana Spyropoulos and Precious Brady-Davis gave away tree saplings and milkweed seeds for pollinators.
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