The Near South family of sports programming is expanding its repertoire once again, adding softball to its list of activities.

Near South Little League got off to a roaring start five years ago and was almost instantly popular in the South Loop and surrounding communities, last year taking in about 300 kids — both boys and girls.

But as kids have grown older, it’s become apparent that the girls need their own program, so this year they’re creating a softball league.

“It’s one thing for girls to play tee ball, but as they get older the parents want softball,” said Jim Navarre, founder of Near South Little League. “We need four teams to start off with, and my guess is we’ll probably have it. If past history is any guide, we’ll probably have more.”

Registration is this Saturday, Feb. 18 from 1 to 3 p.m. at Old St. Mary’s Church, 1500 S. Michigan Ave. Like baseball, the softball program will run in June and July. Girls between 7 and 11 years old can register; the cost is $120. Coaches, volunteers and sponsors are still needed.

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By Concerned Mom from Douglas
Posted: 02/17/2012 9:54 AM

Excuse the ('s) typo. I'm having a little brain fog today.

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By Concerned Mom from Douglas
Posted: 02/17/2012 9:51 AM

Dunbar Park has been upgraded with 1 million dollars from the Bronzeville TIF along with an additional million that IIT helped raise. This is a very peaceful and enjoyable area all summer. CPS is also investing $20 million in Dunbar High School right now and it is unfortunate that practically nobody in the area attends this school. CPS has to monitor 's our community to make the Dunbar students leave the area everyday after school. Of course that's another conversation.

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