MESSAGE FROM ALDERMAN JIM GARDINER

My objective to bringing attention to crime problems on the CTA is to help enhance security, which will attract more riders and inevitably increase revenue.

As a lifelong Chicagoan and regular CTA commuter, I feel compelled to be a voice for residents who depend on CTA for school, work, and/or leisure activities.

Proudly Serving,

Alderman Jim Gardiner

TOP STORIES

Let's prioritize the safety of Chicagoans at an equal or greater level as ABC's Ryan Seacrest.

Let's go Bears!

Bears ask season-ticket holders their opinion on possibility of Indiana stadium

It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of James "Jimmy" O'Grady, a devoted member of the , who served in various capacities, including Superintendent of Police.

Jimmy was an exceptional officer who rapidly ascended through the ranks of the Chicago Police Department during his tenure of over 30 years.

James O'Grady was a proud resident of the , residing in Edgebrook surrounded by family and friends. Jimmy was a man of great character, known for his sharp wit, unwavering love for his family, and dedication to our community until his final days.

Jimmy was deeply admired by friends, neighbors, and colleagues, who appreciated his leadership and camaraderie.

On Day, our community honors all who have served, continue to serve, and James O'Grady, who has left an indelible mark on our city.

May God welcome you home with open arms.

In observance of Martin Luther King Jr. Day, our office will be closed on Monday, January 19th.

Additionally, garbage service is not scheduled for Monday, January 19th.

Please ensure your garbage carts are accessible throughout the week for collection.

Chicago History Museum's MLK DAY

Chicago History Museum will offer free admission for Illinois residents on MLK Day, Jan. 19, with family-friendly activities from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., including a staged reading of Lawndale King honoring Dr. King’s work in Chicago.

BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT

At Monarch Dental Studio, Dr. Kunbi and her team focus on creating a relaxed, welcoming experience where patients truly come first. They understand that dental visits aren’t always top of mind, which is why appointments are designed to work for real life—flexible, affordable, and centered around what matters most to you.

Located at Six Corners, Monarch Dental Studio is a new, state-of-the-art dental practice offering a modern environment where patients feel comfortable and cared for. The practice provides general, implant, and cosmetic dentistry, all with a focus on making every visit smooth, stress-free, and personal.



As always, we encourage residents to support our local businesses and take advantage of the great services available right here in the community.

(872) 316-7885

4008 N. Cicero

Mr. B’s Caribbean Grill brings the bold, authentic flavors of the Caribbean to our community, offering a welcoming dining experience rooted in culture and hospitality. Guests can enjoy a thoughtfully curated menu featuring flavorful classics and island-inspired favorites.

In addition to dine-in service, Mr. B’s Caribbean Grill provides exceptional catering for events of all sizes, delivering high-quality food and attentive service to make every gathering memorable.



Contact Mr. B’s Caribbean Grill today to start planning your next meal or event!

(708) 967-2387

4801 N. Milwaukee Ave.

Six Corners will be the home of the first Pita Inn in Chicago!

What it is, what it will be....

Alderman Gardiner joined owners Areli and Alvaro this week for a ribbon-cutting celebrating the opening of Portage Park Breakfast Place at 5040 W. Montrose Ave.

The neighborhood breakfast spot is now open seven days a week from 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. Thank you to everyone who came out to welcome this new addition to Portage Park.

The and regularly allocate time for coffee and conversations with fellow leaders dedicated to improving in our city.

Thank you and Illinois Comptroller Mendoza for sharing your valuable insights and suggestions on enhancing and progressing Chicago.

Celebrating local investment in the 45th Ward

We are pleased to congratulate four projects in the 45th Ward that received support through the Chicago Community Development Grant, which supports eligible commercial, mixed-use, and light manufacturing developments across the City of Chicago.

Congratulations to:

• Parlor Station – 4837 N. Lipps Ave.
• The Hinterlands – 3666 W. Irving Park Road
• Turn Back Time – 3834 W. Irving Park Road
• Adriana Floral – 3912 N. Cicero Ave.

These projects reflect continued investment in our neighborhood corridors and local entrepreneurs. As always, we encourage residents to support our local businesses and celebrate the growth happening right here in the 45th Ward.

CHICAGO POLITICS

As a lifelong Chicagoan and frequent CTA train commuter, I remain dedicated to promoting enhanced while sharing information and advice to all residents who use . Please be safe while commuting.

Within 36 hours of story on concerns about CTA safety, two separate stabbing incidents has claimed one life and left one person seriously wounded.

My intention is not to create fear but rather disseminate accurate information and advice that helps keep commuters safe.

Man pleads guilty to pushing Chicago chef face-first onto CTA Blue Line tracks

For your safety, please remove AirPods/headphones and limit phone usage while commuting

My objective is to improve on , which will ultimately enhance revenue, benefiting both our city and commuters who utilize CTA.

Trump backs Durbin's bill to lower credit card swipe fees

Former Chicago Mayor Lori Lightfoot sued over credit card debt

Chicago City Council committee approves revised curfew ordinance

Barack Obama invites Chicagoans to apply for jobs at Presidential Center

THRIVING IN WARD 45

Jefferson Park and 45th Ward resident Shane Lamb is showing his Bears pride ahead of another Chicago matchup this weekend!

Wilson Park Winter Programs – Openings Available

Wilson Park still has openings in its Winter 2026 classes, running from January 5 through March 13. A variety of programs are available for all ages and interests.

Alderman Gardiner offers quick tips to help Streets & Sanitation during snow and frigid weather.

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.



CONTACT INFORMATION

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]

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.

VETS IN 45

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.

Each week, we will highlight a different service offered by the Cook County Veterans Assistance Commission.

Registration & Contact Information:

🔗 Register: 

📞 Call or Text: 773-520-6950

📧 Email: [email protected]

MATURING RESIDENTS IN THE 45TH WARD

Chicago Seniors Connected

The City of Chicago’s Department of Family and Support Services (DFSS) Senior Services Division offers a wide range of programs and supports for residents age 60 and better, helping older adults stay healthy, active, and engaged.

The newest edition of the Chicago Seniors Connected program brochure is now available and includes virtual and in-person activities, as well as upcoming special events and meal opportunities taking place across the city.

WARD 45 RESOURCES

Shedd Aquarium announces free admission days for Illinois residents

Every high school age student in Chicago (public or private) interested in the possibility of becoming a first responder should apply for this excellent program.

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.

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.

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. 

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.

Gladstone Park Chamber Of Commerce 6348 N. Milwaukee (773) 756-6206

Edgebrook Sauganash Chamber of Commerce P.O. Box 46311 (773) 545-9300

Jefferson Park Chamber of Commerce 5214 W. Lawrence, Ste.5 (773) 736-6697

Polish American Chamber of Commerce 5214 W. Lawrence, Ste.1 (773) 205-1998 

Six Corners Chamber of Commerce 4054 N Milwaukee Ave (773) 685-4955 

Portage Park Chamber of Commerce 4946 W. Irving Park Rd. (773) 777-2020

EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES 

COMMUNITY SCHOOLS

ELEMENTARY SCHOOLS

MIDDLE AND HIGH SCHOOLS

Disney II Magnet School (7th-12th)

 3900 N Lawndale Ave., 



Horizon Science Academy Belmont (7th-10th)

4434 N. Laramie Ave., (708) 667-0941

Vaughn Occupational High School

4355 N. Linder (773)-534-3600

WARD 45 SAFETY NEWS

Helpful tips regarding vehicle break-ins in .

2026 BEAT MEETING SCHEDULE COMING SOON

We are currently awaiting updated beat meeting schedules. We will share the full calendar when it is available.

Beat 1621

Edgebrook Library

5331 W. Devon

February 4th

Beat 1622

Dunham Park

4638 N. Melvina

February 11th 

Beat 1623

16th District Police Station

5151 N. Milwaukee

January 29th

Beat 1624

Portage Park

4100 N. Long

January 28th

Beat 1731

Kilbourn Park

3501 N. Kilbourn

March 10th

LOCAL FOOD PANTRIES

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

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]

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

If you would like a "SLOW DOWN" or "CLEAN UP AFTER YOUR DOG" sign, please come in our office at 5460 N. Milwaukee.