Thank you to everyone who has volunteered, worked, thought about us, prayed for us, made mention, published a story, hosted us, shot us a wink, shared your sorrows, laughed with us, cried and helped dry others’ tears, and of course, mangia, mangia with us! Don’t worry, this isn’t good bye, because we’re not done!
This grassroots campaign is just starting. We may have missed the mark on our nomination petition drive, but as Jesse always said, “No matter what, we will be working to make Oasis a reality.”
With the signatures phase behind us, we are pivoting our focus to Oasis. We will still be connecting with Chicagoans, but now it’s for something far more impactful. Our next conversation with you will be about resources and help that will change the landscape of Chicago food deserts, forever.
What does that mean?
It means we aren’t actively working on campaigning for Mayor. Yep, you read that right. You can still write Jesse’s name in when you vote in February, but as of today (October 26,2026) we’re focusing our efforts on the projects and mission that will make an impact for Chicagoans. You may find us supporting GOTV efforts. As we have since day one, we have voter registration information on hand and can help you register to vote. You won’t find us out and about campaigning for office, we have SERVICE TO CHICAGOANS work to do. Had we met the 12,500 valid Chicago voter signatures goal by 10/26/2026 this wouldn’t be the case. We’re grateful for the experience and all the thousands of people we were able to connect with and talk to.
What can I do to help?
We’re glad you asked! The best thing you can do is sign up to volunteer and donate to the campaign. You can specify that you want your donation to go directly to Oasis. There will be new ways to help each week starting November 2, 2026 and a tax-deductible option posting soon. It can be sooner if you volunteer and help the planning phase move into action!
Where can I find Jesse?
As planned, Jesse returns to work as a Traffic Signal Repairman for the City of Chicago on Wednesday, October 28, 2026. You can find her primarily on the northside of town, for her department that is anywhere north of Cermak to Howard, from the lake to the city’s suburban borders on the westside or around O’Hare.
If you see her driving around in her retired Black Ford Explorer Police Interceptor, say hi. This is Jesse’s personal vehicle she uses for work, since the City of Chicago does not have enough vehicles for its emergency responders. With the support of workers like Jesse Maronto, CDOT saves between $300,000-$500,000 annually in vehicle expenses!
Check the calendar, posting in November, for places to be and events Jesse will be at!
RANDOM PHOTOS…MORE TO COME…
Welcome to the CONE Campaign