August 7th, 2026
Dear Neighbors,
This past week, the 30th Ward Office participated in National Night Out events in all three police districts that cover the 30th Ward! It was a wonderful opportunity for residents to connect with each other and with the first responders who serve their communities.
Tomorrow, National Nurses United is hosting a Day of Action and Block Party outside Community First Medical Center at 5645 W Addison. The entire community is invited to enjoy free food, live music, wellness checks, and more beginning at 11 a.m. Stop by to join in the fun and learn more about NNU’s work to protect vulnerable hospitals.
This edition of the 30th Ward Newsletter also includes several opportunities for residents to make their voices heard. The Chicago Park District recently opened voting for Participatory Budgeting and is inviting everyone age 13 and older to participate. The Department of Planning and Development has released a draft of the Cicero Avenue Land Use Study and is asking residents to review the plan and provide feedback. Finally, the Community Commission for Public Safety and Accountability (CCPSA) has announced five community listening sessions to gather input as part of the search for the next Superintendent of the Chicago Police Department. Check out the Feedback Needed section of this newsletter to learn more about each of these opportunities and how you can participate!
Finally, Chicago Public Schools classes resume on Monday, August 24, and there are events and school supply drives happening across the ward to celebrate the start of a new school year. The State of Illinois is also reducing the sales tax on qualifying back-to-school items from August 7 through August 16. You can learn more about the reduced tax rate here.
As always, thank you for being an engaged part of the 30th Ward community. If our office can be of assistance, please don’t hesitate to reach out.
Sincerely,
Ruth Cruz Alderwoman, 30th Ward |
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To read this newsletter in your preferred Language: Follow this link, click on the newsletter you’d like to read, and select your language from the drop-down menu in the top-right corner. You’ll be redirected to a Google Translate page, where a blue drop-down menu in the top-left corner lets you choose your preferred language. |
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In our last newsletter, we highlighted Freebody Physical Therapy who just opened at 6121 W Belmont and we are so excited to highlight these other 3oth Ward- or 30th Ward-adjacent small businesses. |
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Have you checked out Blue Moon Market yet? They are located at located at 4058 W. Belmont Ave, at the corner of Belmont and Karlov. They are open everyday from 8am-3pm, closed Tuesdays.
They carry snacks, pantry staples, and a variety of locally sourced products from Bang Bang Pie & Biscuits, Vargo Brother, Dimitri’s Pita Chips, Pretty Cool Ice Cream, Nottolis Italian Deli and many others. They also have a free art locker by Chicago Art Locker! Check them out on Instagram @blue_moon_market_ |
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| Local ceramic artist Kristen Holub (and 30th Ward Resident!) just opened a studio space at 3930 N Elston Ave. For a sneak peak of her work you can check out her website. She also offers workshops, and the schedule can be found here. Visit Kayho Ceramics in person to check out her beautiful and unique wares. |
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Exciting things are happening at the Belmont Central Parking Garage! Thank. you to the Portage Park Chamber of Commerce for taking on the much needed repairs to this free public parking garage in the heart of Belmont Central. They are not quite finished with the work yet, but you can check out the 30th Ward social media channels to see a sneak peak of the stairwell glow up! |
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Construction at Austin and Diversey continues to make progress. The new sewer has been completed ahead of schedule, and Peoples Gas has expanded its work to replace additional gas mains throughout the intersection. Once that work is complete and the area is confirmed safe, traffic controls can begin to be removed.
Crews have also been working on lead service line replacements along Austin. The public-side portion of this work is underway, which will allow for partial restoration of the street. Crews will need to return at a later date to complete the private-side portion of the lead service line replacements.
If work continues as planned, Austin is expected to reopen by August 24. As with all construction projects, the schedule may change due to weather or other unforeseen conditions. We appreciate everyone’s patience while this important infrastructure work is completed. |
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2026 Chicago Air and Water Show Resident Information Guide The Chicago Air and Water Show returns Saturday, Aug. 15 and Sunday, Aug. 16, with a rehearsal on Friday, Aug. 14, as part of the nationwide celebration of America250. As one of the nation's largest free admission air and water exhibitions, the event draws hundreds of thousands of residents and visitors to Chicago's lakefront each year. Whether you plan to attend or live, work or visit nearby, here's what to know before the show.
Key Dates and Times Friday, Aug. 14 Air and Water Show rehearsal: 10:30 a.m.-3 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 15 Chicago Air and Water Show: 10:30 a.m.-3 p.m. Sunday, Aug. 16 Chicago Air and Water Show: 10:30 a.m.-3 p.m.
Viewing Area Chicago's lakefront from Fullerton Avenue to Oak Street, with North Avenue Beach serving as the show center. Featured Performers This year's Chicago Air and Water Show is headlined by the U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds and the U.S. Army Golden Knights, alongside additional military and civilian aerial and water demonstrations throughout the weekend. For the complete performer lineup, schedule and event updates, visit ChicagoAirandWaterShow.us. What Residents Can Expect Residents may notice increased aircraft activity beginning Thursday, Aug. 13, including during the scheduled rehearsal on Friday, Aug. 14, before the official show weekend begins.
During rehearsal and show days, residents, particularly those living, working or visiting near the lakefront, may experience: Aircraft demonstrations and intermittent loud noise. Increased vehicle, bicycle and pedestrian traffic; allow extra travel time. Traffic control aides will be deployed to facilitate traffic around the area; motorists are encouraged to seek alternate routes. As for any large-scale event, public transportation is encouraged and both CTA and Metra are providing additional service for the event. For more information, visit CTA at TransitChicago.com and Metra.com.
Report Suspicious Activity: If You See Something, Say Something. OEMC reminds residents to be aware of their surroundings and to report suspicious activity, especially in large crowds. If you notice something suspicious, notify onsite security or call 9-1-1. If You See Something, Say Something™ is a national anti-terrorism public awareness campaign that emphasizes the importance of reporting suspicious activity to law enforcement authorities.
Pole Markers and Location Identifiers For public safety on the lakefront, Chicago Air and Water Show attendees are reminded to be aware of the numbers attached to the poles along the lakefront and at North Avenue Beach. Pole markers are located along DuSable Lake Shore Drive from 5700 North to 6600 South. The pole markers help reference their location within the park to event security and first responders when you call 9-1-1 in an emergency. Information for Veterans and Individuals Sensitive to Loud Noise We recognize that aircraft noise may affect veterans, active-duty service members and others who are sensitive to loud sounds, including individuals living with post-traumatic stress.
Mayor's Office of Veterans Affairs If aircraft activity or loud noise becomes overwhelming, support resources are available through the Mayor's Office of Veterans Affairs. Additional information about available services and community resources can be found at www.chicago.gov/veterans or by contacting [email protected]. Tips for Pet Owners Loud aircraft noise may also affect pets. Chicago Animal Care and Control recommends planning ahead to help keep animals safe and comfortable.
Chicago Animal Care and Control Suggested tips: Keep pets indoors during peak performance hours whenever possible. Walk dogs before peak performance hours and always keep them leashed outdoors. Close windows, blinds and curtains to help reduce outside noise. Create a quiet, familiar space where pets can rest. Make sure identification tags and microchip information are current in case a pet becomes startled and gets loose. If your pet has a history of severe anxiety during loud events, consult your veterinarian before the weekend.
Planning to Attend? To help make your visit enjoyable: Arrive early, especially if planning to watch from North Avenue Beach. Consider taking CTA or other public transportation to reduce traffic and parking challenges. If you do park, take the complimentary shuttle from Millennium Garages (6 S. Columbus Dr.) to North Avenue Beach during the Chicago Air and Water Show. Exact shuttle times can be found at ChicagoAirandWaterShow.us. Stay hydrated and prepare for warm summer weather. Follow directions from event staff and public safety personnel. Check the latest event information before heading to the lakefront.
Know Before You Go Admission is free. North Avenue Beach serves as the show center, with viewing available along the lakefront from Fullerton Avenue to Oak Street. Large crowds should be expected throughout the weekend. Pets are not permitted on Chicago swimming beaches, except for service animals.
Stay Connected For the latest event information, schedules and updates, visit: ChicagoAirandWaterShow.us. Follow City of Chicago channels for updates before and during the event: DCASE: @ChicagoDCASE Chicago OEMC App: For safety and preparedness at your fingertips, residents are encouraged to download the Chicago OEMC App. The public safety tool provides safety information, preparedness tips, emergency alerts, weather information, increased traffic and more. Download the app through the Apple App and Google Play stores or visit, Chicago.gov/OEMC. OEMC will monitor all citywide events through a collaboration with public safety partners and will issue several alerts and notifications to keep residents up to date on weather conditions, street closures and emergencies: · Notify Chicago: Sign up for emergency alerts at www.NotifyChicago.org CHILAKE: For lakefront notices, TEXT “CHILAKE” to 7-8-0-1-5 CHIBIZ: For alerts affecting businesses, TEXT “CHIBIZ” to 6-7-2-8-3
Questions? Residents with non-emergency questions are encouraged to contact 311 via the CHI311 app, online at 311.chicago.gov or dialing 3-1-1, visit the City of Chicago website or contact [email protected] for the latest event information. |
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Back To School Season Events |
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Kilbourn Park Summer Concert Series
That’s a wrap! We handed out popcorn at the final Kilbourn Park Friday Night Concert of July. Thank you to the Kilbourn Park Advisory Council for organizing this free concert series every summer, and to all of the volunteers and park staff that make the concerts happen. We can’t wait to see the line up for next summer! |
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Youth Town Hall
We hosted a Youth Town Hall at Irving Park YMCA when young folks from across the 30th Ward had the opportunity to chat with elected officials about the issues that matter to them. |
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Art Workshop at Kilbourn Park
The 30th Ward had a wonderful time with the The Art Institute of Chicago and all of the neighbors who attended our art pop up workshop at the Kilbourn Park Organic Greenhouse last week. Thank you to the Art Institute - specifically Nancy and Maria for being there and being such great teachers.
This year we focused on the artist Willem de Kooning and made art using techniques that he was known for. It was a beautiful night and we loved seeing what everyone created. And a huge thank you to Ms. Renee for providing snacks directly from the garden.
If you missed this event and are interested in learning more about Willem de Kooning the Art Institute has a Willem de Kooning-inspired Drop-In Sketching program series at the museum, where participants are invited to sketch in the gardens around the museum's campus (two Thursdays, 12-2pm on Sept 3, and Oct 1).
The 30th Ward Office has a limited number of Willem de Kooning drawing guides if you are interested in learning more at home. |
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Block Parties We stopped by neighborhood block parties across the 30th Ward, connecting with residents, sharing valuable ward resources, and celebrating our vibrant community together. |
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Onward House Health Fair
Onward Neighborhood House recently hosted its annual Health Resource Fair, bringing together healthcare providers, community organizations, and local partners to connect families with valuable services and information. Attendees had the opportunity to access health screenings, wellness resources, insurance and benefit information, and other supportive services designed to promote healthy, thriving communities. Thank you to Onward Neighborhood House and all of the participating organizations for helping make essential health resources more accessible to our neighbors. |
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Community Clean Up
We helped out at the summer clean-up of the community garden at the Mural at Addison & Avondale. Stay tuned for the fall clean-up date! |
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30th Ward Park Pop Ups We hosted our final Park Pop up at Kilbourn Park where we shared information about city services and resources with residents. |
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National Night Out
The 30th Ward participated in National Night Out events in all of the police districts our ward covers - 16th, 17th, and the 25th. Residents gathered with local police officers, first responders, community organizations, and neighbors for an evening of fun, conversation, and connection. Building safer, stronger neighborhoods starts with knowing and listening to one another, and it was great to see so many members of our community come together. |
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Farewell Summer Interns!
We started saying farewell to our summer interns this past week and we are so sad to see them go! Pavle, Ashley, Sandra and Kevin all brought energy, enthusiasm, professionalism to our office every day that they were here. We hope they all enjoyed being a part of the 30th Ward team as much as we enjoyed having them with us this summer. We can't wait to see where life takes you! |
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Participatory Budgeting - Chicago Park District
Vote Now to Help Shape the Future of Chicago Parks!
Your voice. Your vote. Your parks. The Chicago Park District's Citywide Participatory Budgeting (PB) initiative gives community members the opportunity to help decide how funding will be invested in parks across the city. Community members can rank the project categories they believe should be prioritized, with the top-voted category receiving funding for improvements throughout Chicago's Central, North, and South Regions. Voting is open to all community members ages 13 and up, and every vote helps ensure future park investments reflect the needs and priorities of Chicagoans. Voting is available online or by paper ballot at all park fieldhouses. Learn more and cast your vote: www.chicagoparkdistrict.com/pb |
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Cicero Land Use Study
The draft of the Cicero Avenue Land Use Study is now available for public comment. Visit www.Chicago.gov/CiceroAve to view the draft plan and submit your feedback by Thursday, Sept. 3rd. |
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Police Superintendent Search - Listening Sessions
The Community Commission for Public Safety and Accountability (CCPSA) has announced five community listening sessions as part of its nationwide search for the next Superintendent of the Chicago Police Department.
The sessions will give Chicago residents an opportunity to share the leadership qualities, priorities, and vision they believe the next Superintendent should bring to the role. Community feedback will help guide the Commission as it evaluates candidates and selects three finalists to submit to the Mayor for consideration later this fall.
The five listening sessions will be held throughout Chicago to make it easier for residents across the city to participate in this important public safety decision. |
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Immigration & Know Your Rights |
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The Northwest Side has seen an increase in ICE activity in recent weeks. Northwest side elected officials are closely monitoring the detentions and working with impacted families. Our office has know your rights literature, yard signs, and whistle kits available to anyone who would like one. For real time updates on confirmed ICE Activity on the Northwest side you can follow Northwest Side Rapid Response of social media. |
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The Northwest Side Rapid Response team has created a Whistle Alert Response Network (WARN) to help warn vulnerable neighbors when there is confirmed ICE activity in the area. To learn more, or sign up see below. |
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| | Our office will continue to share reliable updates and connect residents with Know Your Rights and immigration resources. Please don’t hesitate to reach out if you or someone you know needs support. |
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Focus on Ward Services by: 30th Ward Youth Committee |
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City of Chicago Food Scrap Drop-Off Program
Green bins are for food scraps and other compostable materials.
Composting keeps food waste out of landfills, where it would otherwise produce harmful greenhouse gases like methane. Instead, those food scraps are transformed into nutrient-rich compost that helps enrich soil, supports healthy plant growth, and contributes to a cleaner, more sustainable environment.
Find a location here.
You can learn more about the composting process, and how it benefits your garden and the community from our friends at The Urban Canopy: |
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If you are interested in incorporating composting into your life there are also companies (like The Urban Canopy!) that simplify the process by picking up your compostable materials and bringing you the finished organic material when it is ready for your garden. |
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Belmont/Central Corridor Activation Program
The Belmont/Central Corridor has been selected for the Neighborhood Retail Activation Program through the Mayor’s Office, BACP, and our office.
This initiative will help revitalize our commercial corridor and support 2023 and 2024 storm-impacted areas in Austin, Belmont Cragin, and West Garfield Park.
For more information, visit: Chicago.gov/BACPRetail |
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Delivery Robots - Feedback Needed
Roughly a year ago, I gave my approval for Coco delivery robots to operate in the 30th Ward, after surveying residents for their opinions. A few months later, I also approved Serve delivery robots to operate in the ward. With close to a year having gone by since the robots were first authorized, we are interested in your feedback! Have you had any experiences with delivery robots in the 30th Ward? Have you seen them on sidewalks or streets? Have you ordered food and had it delivered by one of the robots? Let us know! https://forms.gle/33fkKhGJHFDgT5SE8 |
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Connect with your Northwest Side Elected Officials Need help finding out who your state elected officials are? You can look up that information here. |
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Food Resources
The Greater Chicago Food Depository has an interactive map of locations where you can find food assistance: |
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The 30th Ward office has a supply of pantry essentials. If you or someone you know is in need we can provide a bag of groceries, no questions asked. Stop by our office anytime during regular business hours. |
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The Veterans Assistance Commission of Cook County will be at the 30th Ward office on the third Thursday each month. The VACCC is a county-based veterans service organization that assists honorably discharged veterans and their dependents who live in Cook County, Illinois. It focuses on both immediate emergency support and benefit navigation to help veterans access the resources they’ve earned. If you or someone you know needs help in the meantime, you can reach out to the VACCC directly at 312-433-6010. Our office will not be having the VACCC in person in August; check back in September for the September date! |
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Resources for Students and Their Families |
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Engaging with the Chicago Police Department There are a variety of ways to engage with the Chicago Police Department. Here are upcoming opportunities, including CAPS meetings, Conversations with a Commander, and District Council meetings. If you are unsure of the police district or beat that you live in you can look up that information here. |
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Have you visited us at 5418-A W. Belmont Ave? Stop by and say hi! Here are our hours: Monday: 9am-7pm Tuesday: 9am-5pm Wednesday: 9am-4pm Thursday: 9am-5pm Friday: 9am-3pm Second Saturday each month: 9am-1pm |
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Meet Alderwoman CruzJoin us Monday night from 5-7pm to meet Alderwoman Cruz. Share ideas, concerns, or feedback directly with the Alderwoman - no appointment needed! |
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