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The 2nd Ward Newsletter for March 23, 2026
In This Edition:
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2nd Ward Website
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2nd Ward Twitter
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2nd Ward YouTube
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In Honor of Chicago Fire Department EMT and Firefighter Michael Altman
I was deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Chicago Firefighter Michael “Mickey” Altman, who lost his life in the line of duty last week while responding to a fire on our city’s North Side.
Firefighter / EMT Altman represented the very best of Chicago. A fourth-generation firefighter, he came from a proud family of public servants and carried that legacy forward with courage and humility. While searching for others during a Rogers Park fire, he fell through a collapsing floor into heavy flames—a tragic reminder of the risks our first responders face every day to keep others safe.
What makes this loss even more devastating is that this fire was not accidental. Authorities have charged an individual with murder and arson, alleging the blaze was intentionally set in the building’s basement (ABC7 coverage can be found here).
He was not only a dedicated firefighter, but a loving husband, father, and friend—remembered by those closest to him as someone with a “biggest heart,” who cared deeply for his family and community.
My thoughts and prayers are with his wife, their young child, and their growing family, as well as his fellow firefighters across the Chicago Fire Department who are mourning the loss of one of their own. His service, his sacrifice, and his legacy will not be forgotten.
Visitation services will take place this Thursday, March 26, from 3:00 PM to 8:00 PM at St. Rita of Cascia Shrine Chapel, 7740 S. Western Avenue.
Funeral services will be held on the following day, Friday, March 27, at 10:00 AM, at St. Rita.
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Statement on the Passing of Sheridan Gorman
The tragic killing of 18-year-old Loyola University student Sheridan Gorman has shaken our entire community. A young woman with her whole life ahead of her was taken in an act of senseless violence while simply walking with friends near campus in Rogers Park. There are no words that can fully capture the sorrow that I feel for her family, her friends, and the entire Loyola community during this unimaginable time.
I am also angry—angry that this violence was carried out by an individual, Jose Medina-Medina (25), who, according to authorities, should not have been in a position to harm anyone in our city. While the legal process must play out, it is deeply troubling when warning signs or prior circumstances raise questions about whether more could have been done to prevent such a tragedy. We must be honest about these failures and committed to learning from them because preventing even one loss of life is a responsibility we all share.
I refute the notion that the victim was "in the wrong place at the wrong time" as some in government are suggesting. That implies two false narratives: 1.) that it is somehow acceptable that an undocumented individual can illegally possess a firearm at any time, and 2.) that Ms. Gorman was doing something wrong by simply walking near her campus with her friends.
I uphold and echo the clear words of the Gorman family:
“We are gravely disappointed by the policies and failures that allowed this individual to remain in a position to commit this crime. When systems fail—whether through release decisions, lack of coordination, or unwillingness to act—the consequences are not abstract. They are real. And in our case, they are permanent.”
I want to commend Area 3 Detectives and the Cook County State’s Attorney’s Office, under the leadership of Eileen O’Neill Burke, for their swift and determined work to apprehend and charge a suspect in this case. Their efforts send a clear message that violence will not go unanswered.
As a city, we must honor Sheridan’s memory not only with our words, but with a renewed commitment to public safety and accountability.
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Report Potholes to the 2nd Ward
 In an effort to keep roads safe and smooth, please report potholes to our office at [email protected] or call our office at 312-643-2299. Please send us a photo and the exact location of the pothole.
Our 2nd Ward Superintendent and Surveyor immediately report potholes to the Chicago Department of Transportation (CDOT), but we can use your help in identifying the ones we miss.
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2026 Street Sweeping Schedule Begins: April 1
The Department of Streets and Sanitation will begin to operate on their regular street sweeping schedule beginning on Wednesday, April 1, 2026. Residents can view street sweepers in real time using the Sweeper Tracker online tool - available on April 1st.
"Sweep Around Us" — a third-party email reminder service used for street sweeping alerts — has now rebranded as "We The Sweeple." They have not yet activated their site for the 2026 season, but we will include the subscription link in this newsletter when it becomes available.
Click here to find the Street Sweeping section of Alderman Hopkins' website. We include an interactive map of all seven street sweeping sections as well as the full schedule of 2026 sweeping dates. We encourage residents to mark their calendars of respective sweeping dates in the event that they have visitors or are out of town.
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Tipped Wage Increase Freeze Passes in Council
Last week, I joined a majority of my colleagues in voting to amend the "One Fair Wage" Ordinance to freeze wage increases for tipped workers. My decision was based on conversations with restaurant workers and owners, who emphasized the damage that this well-intentioned portion of the "One Fair Wage" Ordinance has done to Chicago restaurants.
I absolutely want to see Chicago's hospitality industry thrive, and that requires sufficient wages for all restaurant workers. What I have come to understand is that the economic impact of this ordinance has led to lower wages and fewer hours for many in the hospitality industry, as restaurants have been forced to cut costs in order to stay open. I am grateful that Illinois has strong existing protections for service workers that, in the event that a tipped-earner's paycheck falls below minimum wage, businesses have to pay the difference.
I was proud to support Chicago hospitality workers and the 2nd Ward business community with my vote.
Click here to learn more.
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Weekly Neighborhood Organization Highlight: Lincoln Central Neighborhood Association
 This week’s neighborhood organization spotlight is focused on the Lincoln Central Neighborhood Association. Founded in the 1950s, the organization serves the area bounded by Halsted Street, Lincoln Avenue, and North Avenue.
Their volunteers work on or represent the neighborhood in matters of zoning, public safety, economic revitalization of neighborhood business storefronts, and beautification of local parks. The organization also puts out an informative monthly newsletter called From the Heart.
If you live within LCNA’s boundaries, I recommend checking them out and getting involved. I have appreciated their feedback on 2nd Ward concerns throughout my time in office.
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18th District Collecting Easter Egg Hunt Supplies: Deadline April 1
 The 18th Police District is collecting candy-filled plastic Easter eggs, candy, and baskets for the Near North Easter Egg Hunt.
Please drop off your donations at the 18th District, located at 1160 N Larrabee Ave, in the lobby.
If you have any questions, contact the 18th District CAPS Office at 312-742-5778.
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18th District Older Adult Resource Fair: Tuesday, April 28
 Join the 18th District CAPS team for an Older Adult Resource Fair on Tuesday, April 28, from 11:00 am to 1:00 pm at the Near North Library, located at 310 W Division St.
My office will have a table there, so please stop by and say hello.
If you have any questions, contact the 18th District at 312-742-5778.
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Updated 2026 Chicago Police CAPS Meeting Schedule
The Chicago Alternative Policing Strategy (CAPS) Beat community meetings are a key part of the Chicago Police Department's strategy of partnerships and problem-solving. These meetings are held in person, with the option to participate remotely, 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. Click here 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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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. Click here to learn more about CompStat.
Please see the 18th District CompStat report below:
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Recent Carjacking Arrests:
- 5 March 26 - Juvenile Offenders Charged with Aggravated Vehicular Hijacking of a 28-Year-Old Female
Community Alerts:
- 17 March 26 - 18th District - Armed Robbery
- 22 March 26 - 19th District - Attempt Kidnapping
Additional High-Profile Arrests:
- 20 March 26 - Juvenile Offenders Charged with Multiple Felonies
- 20 March 26 - Offender Charged with Murder of Chicago Fire Department Member
- 22 March 26 - Offender Charged with Murder of 18-Year-Old Female
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USPS Delays Impacting 2nd Ward Residents
Over the past several weeks, I have received an increase in the number of requests for assistance with mail service and deliveries for the United States Postal Service (USPS). While the USPS is subject to federal oversight, I have contacted our local federal elected officials about the frequency of delays and inconsistent service, specifically in Lincoln Park and Old Town (60614 area code). Federal officials have staff designated to reach out to USPS on your behalf. These offices are listed below. Please note that you may only fill out one privacy release form.
Representative Mike Quigley - Chicago Office
Address: 1925 N Clybourn Ave, Chicago, Illinois 60614
Phone: (773) 267-5926
Privacy Release Form
Representative Danny Davis - Chicago Office
Address: 2815 W Fifth Ave, Chicago, IL 60612
Phone: (773) 533-7520
Privacy Release Form
Senator Dick Durbin - Chicago Office
Address: 230 S Dearborn St, Suite 3892 Chicago, IL 60604
Phone: (312) 353-4952
Privacy Release Form
Senator Tammy Duckworth - Chicago Office
Address: 230 S Dearborn St, Suite 3900 Chicago, IL 60604
Phone: (312) 886-3506
Privacy Release Form
Additionally, you may contact USPS Customer Service at 1-800-275-8777. Their hours of operation are:
- Monday through Friday, 7:00 am to 7:30 pm
- Saturday 7:00 am to 5:00 pm
I have been informed that staffing is the primary cause of this issue, as well as severe weather conditions. USPS is currently undergoing staffing issues due to a lack of revenue growth, and the US Postmaster General is set to testify before Congress this month about updating federal rules on borrowing. For more information, you can view an article from the Associated Press here.
I will continue to update you on issues with USPS that affect the 2nd Ward. If you have any questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to call my office at (312) 643-2299.
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Summer Jobs with the Illinois Secretary of State: Applications Now Open
 The Illinois Secretary of State's office is now accepting applications for its fourth annual summer job program! With over 120 paid positions available, their team welcomes students in high school, trade school, college and university, and graduate level.
Positions are offered across the Secretary of State’s 25 departments and at DMV facilities across the state. High school students earn $17 per hour, college and university and trade school students earn $18 per hour, and graduate level students earn $25 per hour.
Applications are available here. Applicants must submit a resume, cover letter, and completed application detailing their interest in working at the Illinois Secretary of State’s office.
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Annual Citywide Clean and Green: Saturday, April 18
 The city's annual Clean & Green Day of Service will take place on Saturday, April 18. On this day, residents, school groups, and community organizations throughout the city team up to clean and beautify areas in their neighborhoods. All volunteer groups, large and small, are welcome to participate. They can call 311 to register their groups, and the Department of Streets and Sanitation will lend the brooms, rakes, shovels, and bags for the clean-up projects. Registration is open until Monday, April 13.
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Statewide E-Bike Safety Initiative
Secretary of State Alexi Giannoulias announced a comprehensive, statewide initiative to protect pedestrians, riders, and drivers by addressing the dangerous rise of high-speed e-bikes and other powerful electric transportation devices on Illinois streets and sidewalks.
The multi-pronged campaign – “Ride Safe, Ride Smart, Ride Ready” – combines public education, updated driver training, and a push for modernized safety laws to keep pace with the fast-evolving micromobility industry. As e-bikes and similar devices become faster, heavier, and more powerful, Illinois law has not kept up – putting lives at risk.
This initiative will raise awareness of current rules governing e-bikes, scooters, skateboards, and unicycles while laying the groundwork for updated regulations to be introduced this legislative session in Springfield. Key components include a new public education website, expanded driver education curriculum, and collaboration with lawmakers, local officials, medical experts, law enforcement, and cycling and safety advocates statewide.
A new public education website – www.ilsos.gov/oneroad – will serve as a central hub for micromobility safety, rules, and policy updates. The site explains what micromobility is, identifies common devices, and outlines how they are currently regulated. A dedicated “Know the Rules” section translates existing law into straightforward guidance for riders, parents, drivers, educators, and local officials.
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TaxSmart Mortgage Credit Certificate Program
The Chicago Department of Housing recently launched its TaxSmart Mortgage Credit Certificate (MCC) Program, an initiative designed to help eligible home buyers reduce their federal income tax liability and expand access to affordable home ownership opportunities for Chicago residents.
The TaxSmart MCC Program provides qualified home buyers with a federal income tax credit based on a percentage of the mortgage interest paid annually. By reducing homeowners’ federal tax liability, the program helps lower the effective cost of home ownership and increases purchasing power for income-eligible households, including many first-time home buyers.
Through the Series 2026 issuance, eligible home buyers purchasing properties within participating jurisdictions may apply for a Mortgage Credit Certificate through approved participating lenders. The program is intended to complement existing housing initiatives and support neighborhood stability by assisting working families in achieving sustainable home ownership.
Constituents may learn more about the program by clicking here, or by calling (312) 744-0891.
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Volunteer at the Lincoln Park Conservancy: Apply by March 27
The Lincoln Park Conservancy is looking for docents at the Alfred Caldwell Lily Pool and the Lincoln Park Conservancy. Volunteers will engage with visitors in a friendly and positive manner, lead tours, and track visitor interactions. Click here to learn more.
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Jumping Jack Program Opens: Wednesday, April 15
 The Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events (DCASE) has announced the Jumping Jack Portal will open on Wednesday, April 15, at 9:00 am.
The Jumping Jack (inflatable bounce house) is available, free of charge, to Residential Block Parties within the city limits from Saturday, May 23, through Sunday, September 6.
Click here to learn more.
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Find Local Support with the Veterans Assistance Commission of Cook County
 The Veterans Assistance Commission of Cook County (VACCC) helps Veterans find support right in their own communities. Their team can assist with finding resources and support for a wide variety of issues and connect Veterans with other service agencies and collaborators. If you or someone you know is a veteran in need, VACCC may be the place to start.
Click here for more information.
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Spring Baby and Toddler Story Time at Near North Library: Thursday, March 26
The Near North Library, located at 310 W Division St, will host Spring Baby and Toddler Story Time on Thursday, March 26, from 10:30 am to 11:00 am. This interactive program features read-aloud books, songs, and movement activities. Tips for children's early literacy skill development are included for parents and caregivers. Registration is required.
Click here for more information. March is a busy month at Near North. Click here to view their full calendar of events.
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OTMRA Members Networking Event: Tuesday, March 24
The Old Town Merchants and Retailers Association (OTMRA) members are invited to Kamehachi for a members' networking event this Women's History Month. Network with your community and enjoy a sake tasting by renowned Japanese women master sake brewers.
Please RSVP here. Not a member? Join here or at the door.
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My CHI, My Future Teen Bash at Navy Pier: Saturday, March 28
 The 2026 My CHI, My Future Teen Bash is one of the biggest free events for teens in Chicago. Teens ages 13-19 are invited to attend this event on Saturday, March 28, from 12:00 pm to 4:00 pm at the Aon Grand Ballroom at Navy Pier.
Attendees can expect free pizza and snacks, giveaways (including Lollapalooza and Chicago Sky tickets), a resource fair with summer job opportunities, games, and more. The event is completely free, but all attendees must register for a ticket. Click here for more information.
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Ohio Street Beach Cleanup: Sunday, March 29
 The Chicago Cleanup Club is hosting an Ohio Street Beach Cleanup on Sunday, March 29, from 10:00 am to 12:00 pm. Organizers will be meeting in front of Caffe Oliva (550 E Grand Ave) on the beach and will provide grabbers, recycled plastic trash bags, gloves, and recycling buckets. You are encouraged to bring reusable water bottles and heavy-duty pet food/pet litter/soil bags for reuse if you have them handy. We will also have an optional lunch at the Navy Pier food court afterward.
Please register here.
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