It’s Dark Outside, but Our Future is Bright 😎

Big announcements below you won't want to miss - but first, let's set the scene...

It’s officially the time of year I dread most: the end of daylight savings 😩

There is simply no way we’re already at the point in the year when it’s dark out at 4:30p – It’s too soon! Like a werewolf succumbs to the full moon, by late afternoon I too transform into a blanket-swaddled goblin. Wedged between two couch cushions, muttering about a fabled sun that once graced us when I was but a young maiden.

…Too much? Moving on...

Here is what I hate most about this season. Early evening is dedicated bonding time with my dogs. This is when we delight in our daily walk or romp at the park. But now, in the dark, our favorite activities feel sketchy. It's harder to see around corners, under bushes, and I'm being blinded by headlights whenever we try to cross the road. Logically I know it’s only 5 p.m. and nothing serious is going on, but my lizard brain staunchly disagrees. My girls need their exercise though, so I brave the darkness.

Well folks, I say "no more"! I hereby declare this as the last winter we will spend suffering. There is finally a light at the end of the tunnel.

Permission to Party 🥂

If you’ll recall from our last update: In September we signed a lease for a gorgeous building in Avondale. The building is under a liquor moratorium though—meaning no adult bevvies can be served unless we get the moratorium lifted. So, for the past month, I’ve been navigating the world of local politics: partnering with the alderwoman’s office (who has been SO friendly and helpful - shoutout to Abraham!), presenting my case at a public hearing (sweaty 💦), and waiting out a two-week community feedback period.

And guess what ya’ll? We won! 58 out of 62 residents (94%) voted in favor of lifting the moratorium. Literally an unprecedented turnout. I’d like to first extend an enormous thank you to everyone who took the time to weigh in. Because of this landslide response, the alderwoman has approved the liquor moratorium lift. That’s a HUGE win for us, and for everyone who’s ever wished for somewhere fun to go with their dog when it’s 20° and sleeting sideways.

It also means we can finally say it out loud:

Zoomies’ first home will be at 3455 N Elston Ave.

Not to be dramatic but getting this approval was make or break for this location. Without it, we would’ve had to start the building search all over again, meaning months of work and negotiations down the drain. Yuck. Fortunately, we don’t have to do that!!

If you follow our socials (@ZoomiesChicago), keep your eyes peeled—Within the next few days I’ll be sharing a video tour of the space so you can see our beautiful building in all her glory.

Blueprints and Green Lights 🚦

To follow good news with more good news, our architects wrapped up the first set of drawings (see below!!!), and they’ve already been approved by the City’s Zoning Department.

Not only are we six weeks ahead of schedule, but we have also successfully bypassed the need for any special use permitting, appeals, or zoning changes. If we needed a sign that universe is on our side, this is it people. Bureaucratic red tape is often what kills these types of ventures, so we are incredibly #blessed to be flying through these hurdles.

Next up is working through all the detailed building plans—things like plumbing, electrical, and HVAC—then getting our construction team lined up and applying for our permits by the end of November so we can start the build.

If all continues to go smoothly, construction will begin late this year or early next, keeping us on track for a grand opening in summer 2026.

The Early Dog Gets the Bone 🦴

Meanwhile, our website is getting a much-needed refresh.

We’re redesigning it from the ground up to better show what Zoomies is all about, what we’ll offer, and how it works.

When the new site launches, we’ll roll out early-bird memberships and limited-time packages packed with perks—discounted pricing, exclusive merch, event access, service credits, and even lifetime park privileges for our top-tier supporters.

If you’re the kind of person who loves being first in line for a great thing (and snagging a deal while you’re at it), this is for you.

The Best is Yet to Come ✨

That’s the latest from Zoomies HQ—If you want to help us keep the momentum going, follow @ZoomiesChicago on Instagram, TikTok or Facebook, share our posts, or just tell your dog friends there’s something exciting coming to Avondale.

Every bit of support helps more than you know. Thanks for being here, rooting for us, and proving that Chicago really is a city full of good dogs and great people.

Zoomies is coming, friends. Hang in there!

- Devon and the Zoomies Pack 🐾