New Member: Gaijin by Chef Paul Virant

Exciting News! We're thrilled to welcome Gaijin by Chef Paul Virant to the West Central Association family! Dive into a world of flavor as Chicago's first okonomiyaki restaurant brings you the best of both Hiroshima and Osaka styles of savory Japanese pancakes. Step into a vibrant atmosphere where every dish is crafted to perfection on a custom 12-foot griddle, ensuring an interactive culinary experience like no other! Don't miss out on this unique dining adventure - reserve your spot now and indulge in the deliciousness that awaits at gaijinchicago.com #NewMember #Okonomiyaki #GaijinChicago #ChefPaulVirant #WestCentralAssociation

New Member: Wolf Point Distilling

Wolf Point Distilling is a Chicago-based craft distilling company specializing in manufacturing high-quality, small-batch spirits. Our spirits are designed and based on famed stories from Chicago history and complemented with highly detailed, hand-drawn illustrations that bring the stories to life on the bottle.

Wolf Point refers to the location where the North, South, and Main branches of the Chicago River meet. This area was central to the early development of Chicago, and was a place of many firsts for the city. It was home to Chicago's first tavern, theater, hotel, ferry, and bridges across the Chicago River, to name a few. 

We produce small batch bourbon and rye whiskey, along with our craft gin, vodka, & white whiskey infusions. Within the distillery there is a dedicated R&D lab space where we often experiment with various botanicals and infusions. Before releasing for production, each spirit is methodically designed on a smaller scale to ensure quality and taste.

Wolf Point Distilling joins the small community of Chicago craft distillers with great excitement to share stories & create noteworthy spirits. 

Learn more about our spirits & enjoy both cocktails and flights in our Tasting Room. Cheers!

WEBSITE: www.wolfpointdistilling.com

CONTACT:

Wolf Point Distilling

215 N. Laflin Street

Chicago, IL 60607

West Central Association Luncheon & Annual Meeting 🎉

🎉 Thank you to everyone who joined us at the West Central Association Luncheon & Annual Meeting! 🎉 It was an incredible afternoon filled with inspiration, connection, and celebration. A special shoutout to our guest speaker, Danny Wirtz, CEO and Chairman of the Chicago Blackhawks, for sharing his invaluable insights with us. 🏒 We hope you left feeling energized and ready to elevate your professional journey. Stay tuned for more exciting events from WCA! #WCAAnnualMeeting #Networking #ChicagoLeadership #ProfessionalDevelopment 🌟

Welcoming New Board Members and Renewals at WCA

The West Central Association (WCA) is excited to announce the addition of several esteemed professionals to its Board of Directors, as well as the renewal of a valued member. These individuals bring a wealth of experience and expertise to our organization, further enriching our ability to serve the community and promote growth and development in the West Central area.

New Board Members:

1. Manus Mehandru - mHub

2. Tim Le - W.E. O'Neil

3. William Marovitz - Carnaval

4. Brad Mayer - First Eagle

Renewing Board Members:

We are pleased to continue our partnership with the following board members who have been instrumental in guiding WCA's initiatives:

• Michelle Amore - Precision Human Performance

• Max Bechina - Carmichael NationaLease

• Richard Bridford - Bridgford Foods Corporation

• Michael Ezgur - Acosta/Ezgur, LLC

• Steven Greenberg - Red Sky Capital

• Allyson Hansen - Illinois Medical District

• Chris Nadeau - Little Italy Chicago Neighborhood Association

• Paige O'Neil - Shapack Partners

• Kimberly Rachal - Epiphany Center For The Arts

• Jacqui Russell - Chicago Children's Theatre

• Greg Terwilliger - ECS Midwest

We extend our warmest welcome to the new board members and express our gratitude to the renewing and continuing members for their dedication to advancing WCA's mission. Together, we look forward to fostering collaboration, innovation, and growth in the West Central community.

Stay tuned for updates on our upcoming initiatives and events as we continue to work towards a vibrant and thriving West Central area.

Celebrating Success at the WCA Networking Event

Dear WCA Community,

On behalf of the West Central Association (WCA), we extend our heartfelt gratitude to each one of you who made our recent networking event on January 25, 2024, at The Publishing House B&B a resounding success. The event was not only a gathering of professionals but a celebration of the vibrant community spirit that defines WCA.

A special thank you goes out to our host sponsor, The Publishing House, and their fantastic staff for providing a warm and inviting atmosphere. If you're looking for corporate or staying arrangements, don't hesitate to reach out to Kimberly—she's ready to assist you with your needs.

The event was an incredible opportunity to reconnect with familiar faces and forge new connections within our community. Your presence added immeasurable value, and we hope you enjoyed the evening as much as we did.

Event Highlights: Photos Relive the memorable moments by browsing through pictures from the event. See below to view and share your favorite snapshots.

Save the Date: WCA Luncheon on 2/22/24 Mark your calendars for the upcoming WCA Luncheon on February 22, 2024, featuring a special keynote speaker, Danny Writz, Chairman & CEO of the Chicago Blackhawks. Registration details will be available soon—don't miss the chance to be part of this insightful event.

Thank you for your unwavering support of the WCA. We cherish the opportunity to serve such an incredible community, and we eagerly anticipate the pleasure of seeing you at our future events.

Virtual Community Meeting - Proposed Development at 1016-20 W. Lake Street ✨🏡

Hello neighbors and community members,

We hope this post finds you well! 🌟 Thank you Alderman Burnett , Development Team, and to everyone who joined us for the recent virtual community meeting to discuss the exciting proposed development at 1016-20 W. Lake Street. Your engagement and input are invaluable to shaping the future of our neighborhood.

If you missed the meeting or want to revisit the discussion, you can watch the recording through this link: https://us02web.zoom.us/rec/share/_9B0CRU19IaoesJuOHV3V2N8lOqriME5kG1uFO2n5064dHCU_ur25ytGIjC_ep96.zIBGoFoBTkfevW7l

Here's a quick recap of the key highlights from the meeting:

🌆 Project Overview:

We delved into the details of the proposed development, exploring its design, purpose, and potential impact on our community. The presentation covered everything from architectural plans to the intended use of the space.

🗣️ Community Feedback:

Your thoughts and concerns are vital to us! We had an open floor for questions and comments, giving everyone a chance to express their opinions and share ideas. Your feedback helps ensure that the project aligns with our community's values and needs. Please send comments/questions to info@wcachicago.org

🤝 Next Steps:

As we move forward, we'll continue to keep you updated on the development's progress. Stay tuned for further opportunities to engage and provide input. Your involvement is crucial in shaping the future landscape of our neighborhood.

🙏 Thank You:

A heartfelt thank you to everyone who took the time to attend the virtual community meeting. Your commitment to the well-being of our neighborhood is truly inspiring.

Feel free to share the video link with neighbors who might be interested, and together, we can create a vibrant and thriving neighborhood for all!

Again, reach out to info@wcachicago.org.

MEDIA COVERAGE:

Crafting Connections Over Craft Brews: A Recap of the WCA Networking Event at Cruz Blanca Brewpub

Unleashing the Power of Networking at Cruz Blanca Brewpub's WCA Event

Last night, the vibrant atmosphere of Cruz Blanca Brewpub played host to a night of networking, camaraderie, and craft beer as the city's professionals gathered for the much-anticipated WCA Networking Event. The combination of a stellar venue and a diverse group of attendees created an evening that was nothing short of extraordinary.

Crafting Connections:

The heart of any successful networking event lies in the connections made, and last night was no exception. From entrepreneurs and seasoned professionals to fresh faces in the industry, the room buzzed with conversations that transcended business cards. It was an opportunity for like-minded individuals to share ideas, insights, and perhaps even a few laughs over Cruz Blanca's signature brews.

Brews and Business:

Cruz Blanca's carefully curated selection of craft beers provided the perfect backdrop for meaningful conversations. Whether it was the bold flavors of an IPA sparking discussions on innovation or the smooth finish of a lager fostering a more relaxed exchange, every sip seemed to enhance the networking experience.

Building Bridges Beyond Business:

Networking isn't just about exchanging business cards—it's about building lasting connections. The WCA event at Cruz Blanca went beyond the typical networking affair, fostering an environment where professionals could connect on a personal level. Friendships were formed, collaborations were discussed, and the foundation for future partnerships was laid.

Looking Ahead:

As we bid farewell to a night filled with connections and craft brews, the question on everyone's mind is, "What's next?" The success of the WCA Networking Event at Cruz Blanca Brewpub has set the bar high for future gatherings. The city's professionals are undoubtedly eager for more opportunities to connect, collaborate, and celebrate success together.

Conclusion:

In the heart of the city's bustling business scene, Cruz Blanca Brewpub proved to be more than just a venue—it was a catalyst for meaningful connections. The WCA Networking Event was a testament to the power of bringing people together in a relaxed, enjoyable setting. As we reflect on the success of last night, one thing is certain: the bonds formed at Cruz Blanca will continue to flourish, creating a ripple effect of collaboration and success throughout the city.

#WCANetworking #CruzBlancaConnections #CraftingSuccess

A Grand Day in Little Italy: The Neighborhood Hotel Opens Its Doors

It's a day of celebration and cheer as we gather to commemorate the grand opening of The Neighborhood Hotel in the enchanting neighborhood of Little Italy, Chicago. The ceremony was graced by esteemed guests, including Alderman Ervin, Little Italy Community Neighborhood Association and many neighbors. With the cutting of the ribbon, a new chapter in the neighborhood's history has begun.

The Neighborhood Hotel: A Jewel in Little Italy's Crown

Situated in the heart of the Little Italy neighborhood, The Neighborhood Hotel stands as a beacon of comfort, luxury, and community. We are proud to introduce this wonderful addition to the neighborhood, a place that reflects the rich heritage and warm hospitality of Little Italy.

At The Neighborhood Hotel, we are committed to offering a one-of-a-kind experience, where you can unwind in style while immersing yourself in the local culture. Our well-appointed rooms are designed for your comfort, and our dedicated staff is always at your service, ensuring your stay is nothing short of exceptional.

Whether you're in town for business or leisure, a romantic getaway, or a family trip, our hotel provides the perfect base to explore the treasures of Little Italy. Plan your stay with us today and be a part of this exciting journey. Book your next stay now at [insert URL].

Exciting Times Ahead: West Loop/Greektown Location in 2025

As we celebrate the opening of The Neighborhood Hotel in Little Italy, we are also looking forward to the launch of our next exciting venture. In 2025, we will be bringing our unique brand of hospitality to West Loop/Greektown, with a new location at 801 W. Madison Street. The countdown to more unforgettable experiences has begun!

We want to extend our heartfelt gratitude to the warm and welcoming Little Italy community, as well as all our valued guests who have made this dream a reality. The Neighborhood Hotel is poised to become a cherished landmark in the neighborhood, welcoming visitors from near and far.

Join us in celebrating the grand opening of The Neighborhood Hotel in Little Italy, and start planning your next stay with us today! https://www.theneighborhoodhotel.com/location/little-italy-chicago/

Fulton Market's Street Closure Lifted

Fulton Market's street closure between Green and Peoria has been lifted, once again allowing vehicular traffic. The annual Outdoor Dining program, which involves street and curb lane closures, is currently active from May 1 to October 31st*, permitting both street and curb lane closures. This year, more than 15 restaurants in the neighborhood have taken part in the program. Should you have any feedback, please don't hesitate to contact Rod Burch at rod@wcachicago.org.

*Sidewalk Cafe permits are allowed year round