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The 2nd Ward Newsletter for January 5, 2026
In This Edition:
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2nd Ward Annual Print Newsletter Out Now
Dear Neighbors,
I am excited to share that my 2nd Ward Annual Newsletter for Winter 2025/2026 arrived in mailboxes last week. The annual print edition of the 2nd Ward Newsletter has served as a great opportunity to consolidate important information and resources and reflect on the prior year's work. If you did not receive a copy, I would encourage you to review it on my website by clicking .
Sincerely,
Brian Hopkins,
Alderman, 2nd Ward
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Shared Cost Sidewalk Program Opens January 12
The application period for the shared cost sidewalk program, in which property owners can split the cost of replacing city sidewalk adjacent to their properties, opens at 6:00 am on Monday, January 12. Applications are accepted via the city’s 311 system (accessible ) on a first-come, first-served basis. Funds are limited. The program is popular and fills up quickly. Please click for more detailed information. Please note that the website has not yet been updated with the 2026 date, but my office has been informed that Monday, January 12, is when the application period opens.
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Holiday Tree Recycling: Ends January 17
 The Chicago Department of Streets and Sanitation, in partnership with the Chicago Park District, is hosting its annual Holiday Tree Recycling Program at 27 locations throughout the city.
Chicago residents are welcome to drop off their natural holiday trees inside the designated tree recycling corral at each location.
Please remove all tinsel, lights, ornaments, tree stands, and plastic bags from your tree before placing it in the corral.
to find a location near you.
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Zaza's Pizzeria Now Open in Lincoln Park
Last Friday, I was pleased to attend a ribbon-cutting ceremony for Zaza's Pizzeria's new Lincoln Park location. Located at 1521 N Fremont St, Zaza's is a welcome addition to the 2nd Ward's exciting culinary scene.
Click to learn more about Zaza's Pizzeria.
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Recent Carjacking Arrests:
Community Alerts:
Additional High-Profile Arrests:
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18th District CompStat Report
Computer Statistics report (CompStat) is a weekly report of incidents that have occurred in the respective police district. Each district compiles a statistical summary of the week's crime complaints, arrests, and data analysis. to learn more about CompStat.
Please see the 18th District CompStat report below:
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2026 Chicago Police CAPS Meeting Schedule
The Chicago Police Department's Beat community meetings are a key part of the CAPS strategy of partnerships and problem-solving. These meetings are held in person with the option for remote participation and are an excellent way to communicate with the officers who patrol your beat and to engage with and meet your neighbors.
The entirety of the 2nd Ward falls inside the 18th District. to find which beat you reside in. You may also call 312-742-5778 or email [email protected] for more information about the 18th District CAPS office.
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Public Service Announcement: Text Scams on the Rise
Illinois Secretary of State Alexi Giannoulias is calling on Illinoisans to remain vigilant for fraudulent text messages claiming they owe money for traffic violations or tolls. Scam texts, which have surfaced recently, typically claim that the recipient’s vehicle registration or driving privileges are at risk of suspension and prompt immediate action through a link. These messages are phishing attempts designed to instill fear as a means of stealing money or personal information.
The Secretary of State’s office sends text messages only to remind customers about scheduled DMV appointments. It does not send texts related to driver’s license status, vehicle registration issues, or enforcement actions.
Illinoisans who receive scam messages are encouraged to report them to the Federal Trade Commission by visiting reportfraud.ftc.gov.
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"Name a Snowplow" Contest Underway
 Chicago residents are once again encouraged to create innovative snowplow names and submit them below by January 10, 2026. At the end of the contest, the Department of Streets and Sanitation will pick the top six names, and those names will represent one snowplow in each of the City’s .
Click to submit a name.
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Share your O'Hare Moment: Submit by February 2
 The Chicago Department of Aviation is asking travelers to share special moments from O'Hare International Airport for its 70th anniversary. Chicagoans and travelers alike are invited to submit memories from O'Hare, including engagements, connections, reunions, and milestones from the world-class airport. A winner will be selected at random and receive a $500 gift card.
Click to submit.
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Apply for the Wells Street Art Festival: Deadline Sunday, January 25
 The 51st annual Wells Street Art Festival, taking place on June 13 and 14, is now accepting applications for vendors. Artists can apply until Sunday, January 25, and will receive notice of acceptance by February 6.
Click for more information.
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Mindful Chair Yoga at Near North Library: Begins Tuesday, January 13
 The Near North Library is hosting chair yoga for seniors at 10:30 am, beginning on Tuesday, January 13, and continuing on Tuesdays for the next six weeks. Those aged 55+ are invited for this free class, with an option for virtual attendance on Zoom. Registration is required for virtual participation.
Click to register.
January is a busy month at Near North. Click to view more of their great upcoming events (select "Near North" under the locations tab).
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Friday Noonday Concerts at Fourth Presbyterian
Every Friday, Fourth Presbyterian Church, located at 126 E Chestnut St, hosts free concerts at 12:10 pm as a part of their "Noonday Concert Series." Stop by to hear talented musicians or stream live on their website. Concerts are held in the church's Sanctuary.
Click for more information.
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Chicago Restaurant Week: January 23 - February 8
 The 19th annual Chicago Restaurant Week begins Friday, January 23, and continues through Sunday, February 8. This 17-day celebration of Chicago’s award-winning dining scene is one of the most anticipated culinary events of the year.
for a list of participating restaurants.
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