Trending...
- Mayor Brandon Johnson, CDOT, Ald. Manaa-Hoppenworth, and State Sen. Simmons Break Ground on Chicago's First Pedestrian Hybrid Beacon
- John Robert Powers Alum Dakota Johnson Stars in Verity, in Theaters October 2
- Badanamu Partners With Moonbug Entertainment In Landmark Distribution Deal
CHICAGO ~ Chicago celebrated its 189th anniversary as a city today with a public event at Lookingglass Theatre in Water Tower Park. The event was attended by Mayor Brandon Johnson, Chicago's Poet Laureate Mayda Alexandra del Valle, Chicago Historian Shermann "Dilla" Thomas, and local small businesses.
The celebration began with an original poem by del Valle, titled "The Windy City Song," which explored her personal experiences growing up in Chicago and the city's intrepid spirit. Thomas then gave remarks on the history of Chicago and its people, highlighting the city's place as the home of historic trailblazers and world-changing technological innovation.
In his speech, Mayor Johnson emphasized the importance of collaboration with community partners to ensure that Chicago continues to thrive for the next 189 years. He also highlighted his administration's efforts to make critical investments in community safety, housing, mental health services, youth jobs, and neighborhood revitalization.
More on illi News
The event also featured a cake-cutting ceremony to honor Chicago's birthday. The cake was provided by local business Eli's Cheesecake, while treats were also provided by Ida's Artisan Ice Cream, Kym's Kitchen, and Ruby's Fine Hibiscus Tea.
According to Thomas, "Everything that's dope in the world comes from Chicago." He urged Chicagoans to not only celebrate their city but also remember that it is through unity that they have given so much to the world.
Del Valle echoed this sentiment in her remarks as well. She described Chicago as a welcoming place where diverse voices come together to share their creativity across cultures. She expressed gratitude for the Chicagoans who came before them and excitement for what lies ahead for the city.
The Water Tower and Water Tower Water Works were also recognized during the celebration. These landmarks on the Near North Side are some of the oldest buildings in Chicago and have survived many challenges throughout their history, including being among the few structures that survived the Great Chicago Fire of 1871.
Photos of the event, taken by Peyton Reich from the Mayor's Office, are available for viewing. The celebration was a reminder of Chicago's resilience, innovation, and possibility as it continues to grow and evolve after 189 years as a city.
The celebration began with an original poem by del Valle, titled "The Windy City Song," which explored her personal experiences growing up in Chicago and the city's intrepid spirit. Thomas then gave remarks on the history of Chicago and its people, highlighting the city's place as the home of historic trailblazers and world-changing technological innovation.
In his speech, Mayor Johnson emphasized the importance of collaboration with community partners to ensure that Chicago continues to thrive for the next 189 years. He also highlighted his administration's efforts to make critical investments in community safety, housing, mental health services, youth jobs, and neighborhood revitalization.
More on illi News
- Chicago Story Coach Dr. Tamea Ryan Launches Story Shift Sessions to Help People Own Their Story
- N5 Studio Named Rockford's Top Choice for Web Design, SEO, and AI Search Visibility
- HW Foundation Opens Nominations for Inaugural 50 Under 50 in AI; Deadline Oct. 16
- Pavillon 30 Years of Addiction Recovery in Western North Carolina, Earns National Accreditation
- ResC4EU Final Event at KOMPOZYT-EXPO 2026 – Building Resilient European Supply Chains
The event also featured a cake-cutting ceremony to honor Chicago's birthday. The cake was provided by local business Eli's Cheesecake, while treats were also provided by Ida's Artisan Ice Cream, Kym's Kitchen, and Ruby's Fine Hibiscus Tea.
According to Thomas, "Everything that's dope in the world comes from Chicago." He urged Chicagoans to not only celebrate their city but also remember that it is through unity that they have given so much to the world.
Del Valle echoed this sentiment in her remarks as well. She described Chicago as a welcoming place where diverse voices come together to share their creativity across cultures. She expressed gratitude for the Chicagoans who came before them and excitement for what lies ahead for the city.
The Water Tower and Water Tower Water Works were also recognized during the celebration. These landmarks on the Near North Side are some of the oldest buildings in Chicago and have survived many challenges throughout their history, including being among the few structures that survived the Great Chicago Fire of 1871.
Photos of the event, taken by Peyton Reich from the Mayor's Office, are available for viewing. The celebration was a reminder of Chicago's resilience, innovation, and possibility as it continues to grow and evolve after 189 years as a city.
0 Comments
Latest on illi News
- Mayor Brandon Johnson, Chicago Housing Authority Cut Ribbon on Parkside Phase 5, Bringing 99 New Mixed-Income Homes to Cabrini-Green
- Chicago: Mayor Brandon Johnson Wins Back $32.2 Million From Corporations Underpaying City
- Chicago: Mayor Brandon Johnson, CDOT to Install Dedicated Bus Lane on Michigan Avenue, Bringing More Reliable CTA Bus Service to The Loop
- Mayor Brandon Johnson Joins Chicago Cook Workforce Partnership for Fall Citywide Career Fair
- Liquatite® Antimicrobial Food Grade Conduit for Safe, Sanitary Processing Environments
- CardsNearby Launches Free Nationwide Directory of Card Shows and Local Card Shops for Collectors
- American Garden Rose Selections™ Announces 2027 Winners
- Crossroads4Hope Launches Blood Cancer Resource Hub
- DeGarmo Launches DeGarmoConnect to Extend Professional Development Across the Donation Community
- NIL Club Data Shows Brands Are Looking Beyond Follower Counts in College Sports
- Georgia's Magical Nights of Lights Bigger and Brighter for 2026
- Indies United is pleased to present our October 2026 book releases
- Harvard Educated Board Certified Endodontist Joins Pearlfection Dentistry
- NYC Banners Delivers High-Stakes UN General Assembly Backdrop for the US Department of State Event
- Elavo Star System Introduces Innovative Approach to Professional Tree Trunk Cleaning
- OneVizion Appoints Energy Infrastructure Executive Walt Farrell to Board of Directors
- Tampa Bay Reporter Launches with a Mission to Deliver Local News with National Reach
- "JACKIE the STRIPPER," Starring Charlotte Kirk and The PUSSYCAT DOLLS' Kimberly Wyatt, Now Streaming on PRIME
- Migguel Anggelo Celebrates the Immigrant Experience, Latino Identity, and the Power of Iconic Latin Rhythms During Hispanic Heritage Month
- John Robert Powers Alum Dakota Johnson Stars in Verity, in Theaters October 2