13-Dec-19 – It is a tradition that has survived a relocation from River East to River North in 2008, multiple owners, and multiple managers – the annual holiday party at Dick’s Last Resort for underprivileged children.

For the 29th time, the restaurant/bar, now at Marina City, hosted a party for children selected by community volunteers and the Office of Community Policing.

This year, about 37 children attended the party on Wednesday afternoon, according to Kathy Posner, a member of the Community Policing Advisory Panel and organizer of the annual event. Another ten who could not attend will still receive gifts.

The children were treated to carols performed by VanderCook College of Music, face painters, and a visit by Santa Claus.

(Right) Former 2nd Ward Alderman Robert Fioretti (left in photo) and Secretary of State Jesse White (right) with Santa at a holiday party for underprivileged children at Dick’s Last Resort.

Dick’s closes half of its restaurant for the event, serves a kid-friendly buffet, and has spent more than $100,000 over the years on gifts for the children.

The Chicago Police Department is a partner in the annual event. 18th District Commander Daniel O’Shea, Sergeant Chris Schenk, and Officer Ramona Stovall from the 18th district community policing office attended the event, along with Secretary of State Jesse White and civil rights attorney Robert Fioretti, who was 2nd Ward Alderman from 2007 to 2015.