MESSAGE FROM ALDERMAN JIM GARDINER | | |
Officer John Bartholomew was a 10-year veteran of the Chicago Police Department assigned to the 17th District. John was remembered by his colleagues for his infectious smile and sense of humor. He brought intelligence, compassion and enthusiasm to the job every day and eagerly volunteered for assignments. Talk to any of John’s colleagues and they’ll tell you he always put his family first and wanted nothing more than to get home safe to them.
John was so much more than a police officer. He was a loving husband, a devoted father, a son, a brother, a friend, and someone who made a lasting impact on everyone who knew him. He leaves behind a wife, a 3-year old daughter, and two stepsons whom he loved dearly.
| | Click here to watch Alderman Gardiner’s update from today’s hearing | | |
Proudly Serving,
Alderman Jim Gardiner
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Community rallies around family of fallen Chicago police officer
FULL STORY HERE
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Alderman Gardiner attended the arraignment this week for the suspect charged in the killing of Officer Bartholomew and the critical injury of another officer.
CLICK HERE TO WATCH ALDERMAN GARDINER'S REEL
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‘Does not work': Cook County State's Attorney decries electronic monitoring system as broken
FULL STORY HERE
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Superintendent Snelling and Alderman Jim Gardiner would like to express their sincere gratitude to the residents and businesses in the 45th Ward for their contributions to the success of our Annual Back the Vest Pancake Breakfast hosted by St. Robert Bellarmine - Chicago (Go Bruins.)
Your generosity has been instrumental in raising over $12,000 for our officers to purchase bulletproof vests.
We are proud to stand with and honor the sacrifices made by members of the Chicago Police Department, who work selflessly to maintain our city's safety.
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Chicago firefighter donates kidney to save longtime friend and fellow firefighter
FULL STORY HERE
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Chicago pothole repair crews have filled over 150,000 so far in 2026, but wet weather has been a challenge
FULL STORY HERE
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16 fast food chains that offer treats for your dog, too
FULL STORY HERE
| | Happy 94th Birthday Pete. May you enjoy another 94 years in the 45th Ward! | | |
Located in the Portage Park neighborhood, Simòn Tacos is more than just a place to enjoy a great meal it’s a neighborhood gathering spot where culture, flavor, and community come together. Rooted in authentic Mexican traditions, Simòn Tacos brings the vibrant tastes of Mexico to the Northwest Side with recipes made from fresh ingredients and prepared with care. From tacos and burritos to tortas, quesadillas, sopes, and even keto-friendly options, there’s something on the menu for everyone to enjoy. Whether neighbors are stopping in for a casual dine-in experience, taking advantage of outdoor seating during warmer months, or grabbing a quick meal to go, Simòn Tacos offers flexible dining options that fit the rhythm of everyday life in Portage Park. The welcoming atmosphere and friendly service make it a place where residents can connect, unwind, and feel at home. Their catering services make local celebrations, office gatherings, and family events both easy and memorable, offering generous, crowd-pleasing options that reflect the same quality and tradition found on their daily menu. With Cinco de Mayo just around the corner, it’s the perfect time to stop by Simòn Tacos, support a local business, and enjoy a delicious, comforting meal right in the heart of the neighborhood.
4263 N. Milwaukee Ave.
773-930-3273
Simòn Tacos | Super Burritos, Tacos and Mexican Flavors in Chicago, IL
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A proud part of the Portage Park community since 1984, Gato and Sons Jewelers is a family-owned and operated business that has served neighborhood families for over four decades.
Known for their trusted expertise and personalized service, they specialize in appraising diamonds, gold, silver, precious metals, gemstones, and other fine jewelry items. Whether you are looking to purchase something special or have a treasured piece evaluated, their team is here to help.
They also provide a wide range of repair services, including watch battery replacement, ring sizing, pearl restringing, stone mounting, and jewelry and watch repairs. Additional services include ear piercing and professional appraisals.
With Mother’s Day just around the corner, now is a wonderful time to stop by, support a local business, and find something special for Mom.
4849 W. Irving Park Road
(773) 777-4484
www.gatoandsonsjewelers.com
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‘May 1 is happening.’ What to know about the CPS and teachers union May Day debate.
FULL STORY HERE
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Venezuelan migrant charged in Loyola student's killing enters plea
CLICK HERE FOR FULL STORY
| | CPS to restore special education services for Catholic school students after backlash | |
Ex-Mayor Lori Lightfoot's chief operating officer is at the center of City Hall intern, contracting scandal
FULL STORY HERE
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A 69-hour workday? City of Chicago paid head-scratching legal bills.
FULL STORY HERE
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Chicago alderman says police are 'handcuffed' from stopping teen takeovers under mayor
FULL STORY HERE
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Chicago mayor warns of teen takeovers on city's
South Side
CLICK HERE FOR REEL
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Chicago owed $8B in debt, city workers owe $9M
FULL STORY HERE
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Chicago IG Witzburg's last report reveals city employees drinking on job, falsifying work hours
FULL STORY HERE
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Residents of the 45th Ward who need assistance with infrastructure-related concerns are encouraged to contact our office at (773) 853-0799 or [email protected].
Click here to see how Alderman Gardiner is addressing
infrastructure concerns in the 45th Ward.
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Curious about what's happening in the community?
Check out ChiStreetWork, the City of Chicago’s interactive map portal that provides up-to-date information on infrastructure projects and permits. It compiles data from city agencies and private utilities.
Just enter an address or intersection into the search bar to see a clickable map with detailed information about active projects in that area. From sewer work to resurfacing, you’ll get a clear picture of what’s going on and when.
CLICK HERE FOR ACCESS
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Visit our 45th Ward Office
5460 N. Milwaukee Ave, Chicago, IL 60630
Tel: 773-853-0799
Office Hours: Mon/Tue/Wed/Fri.-8:30-4:30PM,
Thurs. 9:30-4:30PM Email: w[email protected]
Click the link-www.aldermangardiner.com
| | Thank you for being part of the 45th Ward community. We are grateful for the opportunity to serve you and remain dedicated to providing exceptional constituent services. | | |
Looking for a “SLOW DOWN” or “CLEAN UP AFTER YOUR DOG” sign?
Stop by the 45th Ward Office to pick one up.
| | The Cook County Veterans Assistance Commission visits our office each month to assist veterans in our community. If you or someone you know is a veteran in need of support or has questions, please feel free to stop in. | | MATURING RESIDENTS IN THE 45TH WARD | |
Senior Services
The Chicago Department of Family and Support Services offers a wide range of programs and resources to support older adults across the city. Services are designed to meet the diverse needs of seniors—whether they are active and independent, living in long-term care facilities, or in need of additional assistance at home.
From wellness programs and social activities to home-delivered meals and in-home support, these services are focused on helping older adults maintain their independence, health, and quality of life.
CLICK HERE TO LEARN MORE
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If you experience water in your basement during storms, please file a service request with 311 Chicago.
These reports allow the Chicago Department of Water Management to inspect sewer infrastructure and help the City track flooding locations. This data is important for prioritizing improvements and may support assistance through (FEMA)
Federal Emergency Management Agency if a disaster is declared.
| | The Express Permit Program is a web-based interface for homeowners, businesses, and other building owners/tenants (and the contractors that work with them) to obtain building permits needed to repair or replace existing features of a building or undertake specific small improvement projects, such as adding residential solar panels. The web interface allows permit applicants to check application status, pay fees, and view inspection results online 24/7. | | CLICK HERE TO GET STARTED | | |
The Department of Family and Support Services provides programs and support to older adults aged 60 and better. DFSS offers a range of programs and services throughout the year to keep older adults healthy, active, and engaged.
Click here for additional information
| | | SMALL BUSINESS RESOURCE CENTER | | |
The Department of Business Affairs and Consumer Protection (BACP) offers free business education webinars every Wednesday afternoon and Friday morning. Topics include business licensing, operations, financial resources, marketing, and more. Programs are free and open to the public and taught by industry professionals, not-for-profit agencies, and government agencies.
CLICK HERE TO VIEW AND REGISTER FOR UPCOMING BACP WEBINARS
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The City of Chicago is now accepting applications for its Community Development Grants (CDG) program, which supports local businesses, nonprofits, and community organizations with funding for projects that create jobs and strengthen our neighborhoods.
Small and Medium grant applications are open now, with a deadline of August 14, while Large grants are accepted on a rolling basis. Small grants can cover up to 75% of eligible project costs, with awards up to $250,000.
Interested applicants are encouraged to attend an informational webinar or review available resources before applying.
Click here for more information and to apply.
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The Chicago Department of Business Affairs & Consumer Protection (BACP) Entrepreneur Certificate Program is a free and optional program available to attendees of the free BACP business education webinar series. The program is designed to give entrepreneurs the essential information they need to start and grow a business in Chicago. The program’s curriculum covers essentials in business planning, financing, marketing, legal topics, technology, and more. Click here for additional information
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Local Chambers of Commerce
Our neighborhood Chambers of Commerce support local businesses through advocacy, networking, marketing, and community events. Businesses of all sizes are encouraged to connect and get involved.
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Gladstone Park Chamber Of Commerce 6150 N. Milwaukee (773) 756-6206
Click here for additional information
Edgebrook Sauganash Chamber of Commerce P.O. Box 46311 (773) 545-9300
Click here for additional information
Jefferson Park Chamber of Commerce 5214 W. Lawrence, Ste.5 (773) 736-6697
Click here for additional information
Polish American Chamber of Commerce 5214 W. Lawrence, Ste.1 (773) 205-1998
Click here for additional information
Six Corners Chamber of Commerce 4054 N Milwaukee Ave (773) 685-4955
Click here for additional information
Portage Park Chamber of Commerce 4946 W. Irving Park Rd. (773) 777-2020
Click here for additional information
| | Beat Meetings are a great opportunity to meet your local officers, learn about public safety in your area, and share concerns. We encourage residents to attend and stay involved. | | 2026 BEAT MEETING SCHEDULE | | |
Beat 1621
Edgebrook Library
5331 W. Devon
May 6th
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Beat 1622
Dunham Park
4638 N. Melvina
May 13th
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Beat 1623
16th District Police Station
5151 N. Milwaukee
May 29th
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Beat 1731
Kilbourn Park
3501 N. Kilbourn
May 7th
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Beat 1624
Portage Park
4100 N. Long
May 27th
| | CLICK HERE TO FIND YOUR BEAT | |
Capital Planning Survey
Take the Survey
Please complete by April 30, 2026.
As part of our commitment to engaging families around the district’s budgeting process, Chicago Public Schools (CPS) is seeking feedback as we prepare our FY27 Capital Plan by collecting your input to help the district understand what investments would have the most positive impact on CPS children. Your input is key to achieving the district’s commitment to community engagement and equity during the budgeting process.
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Beaubien Elementary School
5025 N. Laramie Ave., (773) 534-3500
Click here for additional information
Edgebrook Elementary School
6525 N. Hiawatha Ave., (773) 534-1194
Click here for additional information
Edgebrook Early Learning Branch
6407 N. Minnehaha Ave., (773) 534-0720
Click here for additional information
Farnsworth Elementary School
5414 N. Linder Ave., (773) 534-3535
Click here for additional information
Hitch Elementary School
5625 N. McVicker Ave., (773) 534-1189
Click here for additional information
William J. Onahan School
6634 W. Raven St., (773) 534-1180
Click here for additional information
Prussing Elementary School
4650 N. Menard Ave., (773) 534-3460
Click here for additional information
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Catalpa Early Childhood Center
5252 N. Long Ave., (773) 534-8380
Click here for additional information
St. Constance School
5841 W. Strong St., (773)-283-2311
Click here for additional information
St. Elizabeth of the Trinity School
6040 W. Ardmore Ave., (773)-763-7080
Click here for additional information
St. John's Lutheran School
4939 W. Montrose Ave., (773) 736-1196
Click here for additional information
St. Roberts Bellarmine School
6036 W. Eastwood Ave., (773) 725-5133
Click here for additional information
St. Mary of the Woods
6955 N. Hiawatha Ave., (773)-763-4968
Click here for additional information
Wildwood Elementary School
6950 N. Hiawatha Ave. (773) 534-1188
Click here for additional information
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Disney II Magnet School (7th-12th)
3900 N Lawndale Ave., (773) 534-5010
Click here for additional information
Horizon Science Academy Belmont (7th-10th)
4434 N. Laramie Ave., (708) 667-0941
Click here for more information
Vaughn Occupational High School
4355 N. Linder (773)-534-3600
Click here for additional information
| | CLICK HERE FOR MORE INFORMATION | | Supporting Our Neighbors in Need | | |
New Hope Community Food Pantry
Address: 6125 W Foster
Phone:773-775-1215
Hours:Tuesday:
9:30- 11:30 AM
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Joined Hands Food Pantry / Our Lady of Victory
Address: 5212 W Agatite
Phone: (312)972-1164
Hours: Wednesday:
5:00 - 7:00 PM
[email protected]
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Harvest Christian Center Chicago Food Pantry
Address: 4020 N. Tripp Ave.
Phone: 773-685-4222
[email protected]
Hours: Last Friday of the month:
1:30 -2:30 PM
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Volunteer Opportunities
If you or someone you know is interested in volunteering as a Gardiner Angel in the Ward office providing clerical assistance, research, communications assistance, etc. or would like to provide on the ground help cleaning up the ward, please reach out to us at [email protected]
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