I would like to hear about your ideas for the Uptown Entertainment District, and, specifically, what you would do to promote the reuse of the Uptown Theatre. As a resident of the far southern end of the ward, I'd like to see a revitalization of the Lawrence/Broadway area that is on par with other sections of the ward (i.e., Andersonville). What are your thoughts on historic preservation?
- J.A.

Thank you for your letter. I am very interested in the revitalization of all of the commercial districts in the 48th Ward and if elected Alderman will work with you and other neighbors to create a plan for commercial development that can be read, shared, and used as a road map for our community's growth and development. In my seven years as Executive Director of Inspiration Corporation, we grew from a small neighborhood operation with a $415,000 budget to a city-wide agency with a $2.8 million budget. This growth was facilitated by our strategic plan, something that our community needs, but lacks.

I am committed to preserving the Uptown Theater and putting it back to use in some fashion. I will consider it a failure if it remains vacant after four years in office, let alone 17 years. The Uptown Theater is the jewel of Lawrence and Broadway but is also an impediment to appropriate growth in its current deteriorating condition.

Restoring and revitalizing this remarkable and important community asset will be a top priority for me as Alderman.

Thank you again and please vote yes for Chris Persons on February 27.

Christopher Persons
Candidate for Alderman 48th Ward