| 33RD WARD WEEKLY NEWSLETTER - June 19, 2026 |
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| Translate // Traducir // 번역하다 |
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| Dear 33rd Ward Community, |
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| The month of June is a special month where I am able to recognize a unique, sacred intersection of: pride in my Puerto Rican heritage, the strength and resilience of the LGBTQIA+ community, and the end to institutionalized slavery in the United States on Juneteenth.
At first glance, these can be seen as three separate dates on a calendar. But if you understand the architecture of oppression, you know they are deeply intertwined by the overlapping historical legacies of colonialism, systemic violence, and state-sanctioned erasure.
Juneteenth marks the delayed delivery of the emancipation of enslaved Black people in Galveston, Texas in 1865. It is a stark reminder of the ultimate colonial theft: the commodification of Black bodies, systemic white supremacy, and the ongoing struggle for true liberation and civil rights.
Pride Month honors a riot sparked by Black and Brown trans women at Stonewall — a rebellion against state surveillance, police brutality, and the criminalization of queer identity.
Puerto Rican Heritage Month is a testament to an archipelago that has survived over 500 years of dual colonization, resisting the erasure of its culture, the poisoning of its lands, and the surveillance of its people.
The colonial, oppressive systems of control that created COINTELPRO to track and criminalize Puerto Rican independence activists are the same systems that weaponized the FBI against Black liberation leaders. These systems also codified the surveillance and criminalization of LGBTQ+ communities. The playbook never changes: label marginalized communities as "dangerous," isolate them from each other and their leaders, and strip them of their resources.
By the time I turned 15, I began organizing with my community against these oppressive systems in my country of Puerto Rico, the people who I learned from were labeled as “dangerous”, too. As a student, I started a pro-independence group in my high school and began writing letters to Puerto Rican political prisoners.
These freedom fighters were locked up for "seditious conspiracy" — a legal phrase meaning they dared to oppose the authority of the United States to dictate the future of their country. But even behind bars, they never stopped uplifting humanity. They taught dance, formed salsa orchestras, and wrote poetry while surviving solitary confinement. We painted murals for them, we fasted, we picketed. We were teenagers, and we were organizing to protect our future. When we fight against colonialism and oppression, we are fighting a system that prioritizes imperialist greed over human life. They call us radical, disruptive, dangerous, or violent because our obsession with life and humanity is dangerous to their corporate profits and their status quo. But as the radical Nicaraguan poet Gioconda Belli beautifully wrote: “Solidarity is the tenderness of peoples.”
It is the thread of solidarity and love for each other that connects the Black enslaved person claiming their freedom, the trans woman throwing a brick for her dignity, and a young Puerto Rican resisting colonial occupation. It is the same thread that connects our struggle against violent immigration enforcement in our communities today and to the fight for survival of the Palestinian people.
As a Chicago Alderperson, it is such a privilege to represent a community that continues to resist, that continues to practice solidarity and love. When Texas Governor Abbott was deliberately busing migrants from the border into Chicago, community members stepped up to support our new neighbors, and I was proud to work with them to help organize mutual aid. When federal agents occupied Chicago, I worked side-by-side with community members to organize rapid response networks and ICE-watch at our neighborhood schools, finding beautiful new ways to care for each other. I know we will continue to rely on each other and fight for our collective liberation until solidarity wins. |
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| Thank you for doing this work with me. Please take a moment this week to help out a neighbor in need. You can always contact my office if you have any questions. We are here to help.
In solidarity, Rossana Rodríguez Sánchez 33rd Ward Alderperson |
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| 33rd Ward Spring resources: Clean and Greens: Please email [email protected] to request resources to help clean up your block, like garbage bags, grippers, and gloves. Street Sweeping began April 1. You can view our interactive sweeping schedule and map by clicking here. To apply for a block party permit, please fill out this form. You can also get small whistle kits for your neighbors if you wish to include them in your block party festivities to encourage safety and support in your community during these difficult times. To apply for a yard sale, please stop by our office or fill out this form.
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| | 33RD WARD OFFICE INFORMATION |
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| | | | Event details are listed in the newsletter below. June 29 — Neighbor Night will be at our ward office, 4747 N Sawyer Ave. Appointments with the alderwoman available by email at [email protected] from 4:30-5:45pm.
July 16 — Join us for a special office hours event with State Senator Graciela Guzmán! We will have a joint event to discuss Snap Benefits, All Kids and Familycare health programs, Dept of Aging programs, and more!
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| | | Seasonal Tree Care Tips from the Urban Forestry Advisory Board Education Working Group Show Your Trees Some Love: Mulch Like a Donut, Not a Volcano
Proper mulching is one of the simplest ways to care for a tree. Follow the 3-3-3 Rule: apply mulch 3 inches deep, in a 3-foot-wide circle, while keeping it 3 inches away from the trunk. This creates a donut-shaped mulch ring that helps trees thrive.
A properly mulched tree benefits from improved moisture retention, moderated soil temperatures, reduced weed competition, and protection from damage caused by lawnmowers and string trimmers.
Avoid creating "mulch volcanoes" by piling mulch against the trunk. Excess mulch around the base of a tree can trap moisture against the bark, encourage decay, promote circling roots, and create conditions favorable to pests and diseases.
Spending a few minutes flattening a mulch volcano into a donut-shaped ring can help prevent common tree health issues and support long-term growth.
Watering Reminder for Newly Planted Trees
Newly planted trees need regular watering to establish strong, healthy root systems and give them the best chance of long-term survival—especially during dry periods and drought conditions.
To support healthy growth and establishment, provide 10–15 gallons of water each week at the base of the tree—about 2–3 five-gallon buckets. Water slowly and deeply so the moisture penetrates the soil and reaches the developing roots rather than running off the surface. During drought periods, watering can also help established trees stay healthy.
Consistent watering during the first few years after planting is one of the most important steps you can take to help your tree thrive.
More information can be found here. |
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| Hantavirus Information For ChicagoansCDPH is monitoring the recent cruise ship outbreak of Andes strain hantavirus, along with our local and national partners. None of the passengers from the cruise ship outbreak will be returning to Illinois, and the risk to Chicagoans remains very low. The Andes strain of hantavirus is the only strain known to transmit from person-to-person, and the rodents known to carry the Andes strain do not live in the United States. The state of Illinois has reported 7 cases of hantavirus since 1993; none were the Andes strain, and none were in a Chicago resident.
In the U.S., hantavirus generally spreads from the droppings of the deer mouse. The best way to avoid hantavirus is to avoid contact with rodent urine, droppings, saliva, and nesting materials. If you have mice or rats in your home, clean up after them safely using gloves and disinfectant. CDPH continually monitors for 70+ different infectious diseases, including hantavirus, and coordinates with state, local, and national public health partners to prepare for emerging infectious diseases - visit the CDPH website to learn more. |
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| Ronan Park UpdatesIn March, we have received many residents from the former Legion Park encampment into our ward as they wait for their assigned housing. I understand that this encampment has caused great concern for many neighbors. When this community moved into our local park, my office began working in close, daily collaboration with many local organizations, mutual aid groups, nonprofit agencies, and government partners to ensure that our neighbors most in need receive the care, attention, and resources they deserve.
For updates, please check in on our website. |
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| Cars in AlleysWe recognize that you may sometimes need to temporarily station your vehicle in an alley to load/unload things. However, it is illegal to park a car in an alley. Please be aware of when your garbage days are so that you do not prevent the sanitation workers from picking up your garbage. We are providing a map to help find when your block has garbage pickup! |
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| Immigrant Rights and Deportation Defense Resources: If you see immigration enforcement or suspect immigration enforcement, first call the Family Support Network (FSN) at 855-435-7693. We encourage you to save this number in your phone. |
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| Foster Bus Service Extension#92 Foster: You can now travel westbound later on the weekends as service has been extended through 10:30 p.m. Eastbound weekend service has also been extended until 9:55 p.m. on Saturdays and 9:50 p.m. on Sundays/holidays.Sundays/holidays begin service at 5:00 a.m. |
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| VOLUNTEER WITH THE WARD OFFICE |
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| Volunteer with the 33rd Ward OfficeJoin us in strengthening our community! We are excited to offer a range of community engagement opportunities with our office. Whether you’re passionate about connecting neighbors or eager to make a positive impact, we’d love for you to volunteer with us. Help us build bridges and foster a stronger, more connected community. Your involvement can make a real difference.
Our office maintains several programs for neighbors to come together to care for each other and to learn about resources available to our communities. You can sign up to volunteer with our office by filling out our volunteer form by clicking here. |
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| | Irving Park Community Food PantryIrving Park Community Food Pantry provides food to neighbors in need in the 60641 and 60618 zip codes. In addition to providing clients a 3-5 day food supply of fresh produce, dairy, bread, meat, and canned goods. They provide toiletries, pet food and diapers, and offer special distributions such as a coat drive, school supplies, holiday gifts, and homebound deliveries.
The food pantry also needs volunteers for these distributions, so stop on by to lend a hand! We are losing two volunteers and will need to find new recruits to fill the gaps.
Volunteering would be once a month from 7:30am - 9:30am to help bag groceries.
4256 N Ridgeway Ave Open: Wednesdays, 9am - 12pm and the second Tuesday of each month from 6pm - 7pm. Wednesday, June 24 Wednesday, July 29 Wednesday, August 26 |
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Join the Whistle Alert Response Network (WARN)Looking for a lower-risk way to help protect your neighbors from ICE?
The Northwest Side Rapid Response Network is launching a new neighborhood-based, people powered alert system. To join the Whistle Alert Response Network (WARN), download the Telegram app on your phone. Then, join the channel using this link.
How does WARN work? We are increasingly seeing ICE agents staking out our communities before they begin detaining people. As soon as our teams confirm the presence of agents/ vehicles, we’ll send notice to the Whistle Alert Response Network (WARN) on Telegram.
When you get a WARN alert in your immediate area, go outside and walk around your block, blowing a whistle. This will warn at-risk neighbors that ICE is nearby.
Once you’ve warned your neighbors, get inside to safety BEFORE ICE activity begins. WARN is not rapid response; it complements the work that trained rapid responders are already doing by creating a lower-risk way for anyone in our community to proactively warn neighbors that immigration agents are in the area.
Only administrators can send messages to the WARN channel; administrators are all vetted and trained leads within Northwest Side Rapid Response Network.
Join WARN today to help keep our neighbors safe, here.
WARN is open to everyone, so please don't hesitate to share. 
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| | | Community Driven Zoning and Development
Please follow our Facebook and other social media accounts for the most up to date notices on public meetings and input surveys regarding zoning changes in the ward. You can also regularly check our Zoning page on our website by clicking here. |
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| Current Proposals in Review
3007-11 W Irving Park Rd– Project Website Status: Community Meeting will be held Date: TBA Application Type: Type 1 Change Request: B3-1 to B3-3
3446 W Irving Park Rd– Project Website Status: Community Meeting will be held Date: TBA Application Type: Type 1 Change Request: B3-1 to B3-3
4634-36 N Avers Ave– Project Website Status: Feedback is in Review Application Type: Type 1 Change Request: RS-3 to RT-4 |
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| Irving Park Road Study Surveys - Community and Business The Department of Planning and Development has launched two surveys for the Irving Park Road Study as a follow-up to last month's open house.
The community survey, which is open to anyone who resides, works, studies, or travels along Irving Park Road, shares key findings from the first phase of the study and asks for input on priorities moving forward. The business survey, which is open to business owners who are currently operating or interested in operating on Irving Park Road, invites participants to share more about their experience along the corridor.
Both surveys are available on the Irving Park Road Study website (Chicago.gov/IrvingPark) and will be open through Wednesday, June 24. |
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| | UPCOMING INFRASTRUCTURE IMPROVEMENTS |
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We're excited to announce that the Chicago Department of Transportation has notified our office of a new arterial street resurfacing project in the ward! Construction is tentatively scheduled to begin on June 8, 2026, running along North California Avenue. It will occur between W. Byron Street. and W. Montrose Avenue, pending clearance from and coordination with existing utilities, and weather permitting.
The work will include ADA sidewalk improvements, curb and gutter removal and replacement as needed for ADA and drainage compliance, pavement patching, milling and paving the existing asphalt, and striping.
During construction, temporary “No Parking” signs will be periodically installed as required for each activity listed above. These temporary signs will restrict parking during working hours, while adhering to rush hour restrictions, for the completion of the work. |
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| INFRASTRUCTURE ANNOUNCEMENTS |
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You can report any major debris or trash collection issues to 3-1-1 or give our ward office a call for assistance.
We also appreciate all of the outreach we are receiving about neighbors wanting supplies to start helping to clean up. If you are in need of large trash bags or trash grabbers, please reach out.
Street Sweeping season will officially begin on April 1st. Here is the interactive map our Ward Superintendent made to keep track of scheduled street sweepings! |
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| ChiStreetWorksWondering what construction is taking place near you? Try the ChiStreetWork tool which allows you to view all the construction work happening anywhere in Chicago. The ChiStreetWork tool allows you to view all the active and permitted construction work taking place near you. You are also able to opt into updates to receive real-time notifications related to construction work. |
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| Grid-Based Tree TrimmingCurrent Grid Area: N044, W032
4400-4700 N St Louis (Block)
4400 N Bernard (Block)
4500 N Drake (Block)
The Bureau of Forestry is no longer receiving individual tree trimming requests and has shifted to a grid-based maintenance schedule similar to the street sweeping schedule. You can view the map here. If you’re worried about the immediate safety of the area around a given tree due to its conditions, you can reach out to 311 or our office so the appropriate service request can be made.
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| | ANNOUNCEMENTS AND RESOURCES |
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| Neighbors in NeedPlease consider consider supporting Maria Velasquez’s GoFundMe after she was assaulted at work during a robbery. You can contribute here.
In November, a single mother and her two daughters (ages 8 and 11) lost their home in a devastating fire. Overnight, they were displaced and forced to leave behind everything they owned, including the cash they had carefully saved. Worse, Nuria was recently hospitalized from an injury, leaving her unable to work. They are asking for assistance through this GoFundMe.
LD Pho is a beloved Albany Park restaurant. Unfortunately, they are facing eviction and have until the end of this month to raise $25,000 to save the business. We hope you’ll consider contributing toward their fund.
We are currently accepting donations of any non-perishable food items, including bottled water. As the summer heat sets in, we anticipate more of our neighbors visiting our office for relief from the heat. Many of whom may be unhoused neighbors also in need of a meal. As always, thank you for your kindness, generosity, and solidarity.
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| Job Opening with Metropolitan Water Reclamation District of Greater Chicago |
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| Job Opening with Cook County Assessor’s Office |
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Call All Artists and Performers The Chicago Transit Authority (CTA) is excited to announce the expansion of its arts program to support new opportunities for temporary art installations, performances, and cultural activations across the transit system. Through this new initiative, CTA is seeking to fund organizations, artists, and performers up to $50,000 to create community-driven temporary exhibits and programming. The goal of the program is to create more welcoming, vibrant, and engaging station environments while reflecting the character of surrounding communities. Proposals are being accepted for 2026 activations at the following stations: Applications are now open and due Wednesday, July 1. Apply here. |
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Concordia Place Teen Leadership Programs
Concordia Place Teen Leadership programs is excited to offer our summer program for teens 13-17 years old - Emerging Leaders! The Emerging Leaders program is FREE for teens!
The Emerging Leaders program takes place from June 15 - August 6 — that's 8 weeks of programming! We will meet Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday from 10:00am-3:00pm.
Register here. |
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Global Gardens Cooking Class
On Thursday, June 25th at 6:30pm-8:30pm, Global Gardens Chicago is hosting a Cooking Class with Chef Rory Leahy at 4815 N Sacramento Ave, Chicago, IL 60625. Chef Rory will be teaching us how to make peanut tofu curry, so you won't want to miss it! Everyone is welcome. Allergies: Soy, nuts, gluten.
Thursday, June 25 6:30pm 4815 N Sacrament Ave Tickets: $50 Register here. |
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TEEN PRIDE SPACE A friendly place for LGBTQ+ Teens Food & Beverages, Music & Dancing, Drag Performances, and Resources
June 20-21 11am - 5pm Ages 12 - 18 Waveland & Broadway (at Chicago Pride Fest)
For more information |
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| | NORTHWEST SIDE SOLIDARITY NETWORK
The Northwest Side Solidarity Network June 2026 Calendar of Food. Thursday, June 25 Free hot meals to-go 12:00 - 1:30pm |
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| | The Mayor's Youth Commission (MYC) application is now open!The MYC is a group of up to 40 Chicagoans (who live within the boundaries of the City of Chicago) between the ages of 14 and 19 that serve as a liaison between the Chicago Mayor's Office and Chicago's youth. The Commission meets monthly to foster youth-driven civic engagement and amplify youth voices to impact the City's critical policy conversations. Any youth that are interested must apply by June 19, 2026. This is a paid opportunity for youth and a great way for young people to get their voices heard! |
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| | Volunteer Flavors of Albany ParkSupport our biggest event of the year and get half off your Flavors ticket!
Volunteer options include: Participant check-in, restaurant support, parking lot activities, breakdown.
Volunteer here.
https://bit.ly/flavorsvolunteer26 |
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| | Flavors of Albany ParkFor one unforgettable evening, Albany Park transforms into a global tasting experience. Known as one of Chicago’s most diverse neighborhoods, Albany Park offers flavors from across the world—without ever leaving the city.
At Flavors of Albany Park, you’ll sample dishes from 60+ local restaurants, each offering a taste of their culture, craft, and community. Whether you're craving bold street food, comforting classics, or something entirely new, every stop is a discovery. This isn’t just a food crawl—it’s a celebration of community, culture, and connection.
Wednesday, June 24 5:00PM - 8:00PM
Get your tickets here |
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| Community Catch UpJoin your progressive state elected officials for a community update on the Spring Session. Come with your questions, share your thoughts, and enjoy tacos & refreshments. Moderated by: Miguel Alvelo Rivera, Democratic Nominee for IL40 House District!
Tuesday, July 7, 5:30 to 7:30 p.m.
Community Catch Up with Northwest Side Progressives
Grace and Peace Church - GAP Community Center 1856 N. Leclaire Ave Register here |
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| | Brain Health & Fitness DemonstrationYou’re invited to a free Brain Health & Fitness Demonstration at JASC on Thursday, July 9, 6–7 p.m. at 5700 N Lincoln Ave, Chicago. Participants will learn how movement supports memory and brain health and try simple, safe chair exercises, plus a brief fall risk screening with personalized tips.
Thursday, July 9 6:00 - 7:00pm 5700 N Lincoln Ave Register here |
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| | Bands Apply for Lot Jams 2026
North River Commission is excited to announce Lot Jams 2026, our free community concert series in Albany Park, Irving Park, and North Park! We’re looking for talented musicians and performers to bring energy, joy, and rhythm to our neighborhoods.
If you’re interested in performing, please fill out this form so we can learn more about you and your act. We welcome performers of all styles, genres, and experience levels.
Apply Here |
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| Impact for Equity — Property Tax AppealsThe property tax appeal system in Cook County is complex and difficult to navigate, so few homeowners appeal and even fewer succeed. Impact for Equity has developed a set of checklists and resources to simplify the process and empower homeowners to challenge inequitable property tax practices. (Available in English, Spanish, Chinese, and Tagalog at this website.) |
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| Get Medicaid FactsThe Cook County Medicaid Impact Workgroup, a coalition convened by Cook County Health, has launched “Get Medicaid Facts," a new website and communications toolkit designed to help people understand upcoming changes to Medicaid eligibility and what steps they can take now to keep their coverage.
These resources come at a critical time. Federal policy changes are expected to significantly impact Medicaid, and an estimated 400,000 Illinois residents could lose coverage in the coming years if they are not prepared or informed.
https://getmedicaidfacts.com/ |
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| Gather Together Free Meal Neighbors cooking and eating together each 2nd Friday 5:30pm - 7:00pm Located in Christ Lutheran Church basement, 4541 N Spaulding |
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| Horner Park Brew FestFor local craft beer lovers, the wait is almost over. Tickets are now on sale for the summer's big event: the 8th Annual Craft Brew Festival in Horner Park on Friday evening, July 17th. Sponsored by the Horner Park Advisory Council, The Horner Brew Fest is the largest of its kind on the northwest side of Chicago – this year featuring 40 local craft brewers, live music and an array of food trucks.
Save the Date: Friday, July 17, 2026; 6-10 PM. For more information, visit the Horner BrewFest website.
The last four festivals have sold out so don't wait too long to secure your admission. Tickets are available on Eventbrite: |
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| | | | Our 33rd Ward Office maintains resources pages on our website as a helpful starting point for anyone that needs support. We are also available by phone call or email to help you explore any options that work best for you.
If for any reason our office is unavailable, please call 2-1-1 or visit www.211metrochicago.org. 2-1-1 is a hotline that is staffed 24/7 by trained resources navigators to help you find information and programs related to a wide variety of needs including utility billing relief and housing assistance. |
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| Albany Park Mutual Aid - Free StoreLocated at 3000 W. Lawrence
Hours: Mondays 5-9pm, Wednesdays 5-9pm, Saturdays 12-4pm
You can learn more about Albany Park Mutual Aid, support their work, or find help at www.albanyparkmutualaid.com. |
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| The 33rd Ward Office Has a Notary on Staff
If you are in need of notary services, our team is happy to help. Please reach out to [email protected] or give us a call at 773-840-7880 to set up an appointment. |
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| Free Narcan and Drug Test Strips Available at Our Ward Office
They are available free of charge by visiting our office at 4747 N Sawyer Ave. |
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| Free Gun Safety Locks Available at Our Ward OfficeLocks are available free of charge by visiting our office at 4747 N Sawyer Ave. |
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| Connect with our local Chamber of CommerceSign up for the Albany Park Chamber of Commerce newsletter by clicking here. |
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| | Monthly Newsletter for “Service Members, Veterans, their Families, and Supporters”We are happy to feature the following community-managed resources guides for service members, veterans, their families, and supporters including events and services for veterans in Chicago and surrounding municipalities. Please email: [email protected] to be added to their monthly emails. You can view this month’s updates, a calendar, and fliers by clicking here. |
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| | | Meet our 33rd Ward Office Staff Jonathan Nagy, Chief of Staff John Cruz-Barcenas, Deputy Chief of Staff Rebecca Rios, Director of Zoning Abraham Espino, Neighborhood and Business Services Coordinator Camila Garcia, Neighborhood Services Intake Coordinator Ariana Aguilar, Neighborhood Services Representative Eric Ramos, Ward Superintendent
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