Theodore Thomas (alderman)

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Theodore Thomas is alderman of the 15th ward in Chicago; he was first elected in 1999.

1 Early life
2 Public Service
3 Aldermanic career
4 Personal life

[edit] Early life

Thomas was born in Houston, TX and raised in San Francisco, CA. In 1969, Thomas moved to Chicago where he worked as an equipment-repair technician for the U.S. Postal Service.

[edit] Public Service

After graduating from high school, Thomas enlisted in the U.S. Air Force to which he served 21 years. When Thomas moved to Chicago he joined ACORN (Association of Community Organizers for Reform Now), which works for social justice and stronger communities. As a member of ACORN, he met all the aldermen and learned how the city worked.

[edit] Aldermanic career

Thomas was first elected in 1999. He decided to run when former Alderman Virigl Jones was convicted of corruption charges. There were 11 candidates in the race, but Thomas eventually won in a runoff. In 2003, Thomas defeated former Chicago Bull, Bob Love. Thomas highlights a new public library and the Churchview Supportive Living Center as two major accomplishments as alderman. Thomas serves on six committees: Budget and Government Operations; Committee, Rules and Ethics; Economic, Capital and Technology Development; Health; License and Consumer Protection; and Special Events and Cultural Affairs.

[edit] Personal life

Alderman Thomas is married to his wife, Hattie. They have five grown foster children and grandkids. In 2001, Thomas suffered a heart attack and stroke, and had to undergo bypass surgery; he made a full recovery.