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Dear Neighbors,
As Thanksgiving approaches, it’s not only a time to gather with loved ones, but also a chance to give back. If you’re looking to volunteer your time or planning end-of-year donations, please consider supporting the many local nonprofits doing vital work right here in our community. From food insecurity and housing support to LGBTQ+ services, animal rescue, and youth programs, there are many local organizations here in Lakeview tackling important issues. You can explore the Donations Hub on our website here to find a list of these nonprofits and their needs.
This past week, we were excited to welcome two new small businesses to the ward! Tso Good (843 1/2 W Belmont, formerly Café Flamingo) is back with a fresh look, crispy chicken sandwiches, and fruit smoothies—and tomorrow they’re hosting a food drive where you can “bring a can, get a wrap” to support neighbors in need. Bring a non-perishable food item and get a free chicken wrap. See the flyer here. Just down the street, Hot Chi Chicken (953 W Belmont) is bringing its viral Nashville-style hot chicken and creative specials to Lakeview East, and we’re thrilled they chose our community for their latest location.
 
In public safety news, our office continues to pursue court advocacy for several of the highest-priority cases affecting the neighborhood, including that of Leon Jackson, whose repeated offenses have deeply impacted many residents. His next hearing for a battery charge is scheduled for 9:00am on Wednesday, November 19th, and neighbors who wish to attend via Zoom can contact our office for more information. A strong community presence at these hearings helps show the court how seriously our neighborhood takes this case, and we hope to see many of you there.
There are several festive tree-lighting events coming up across the neighborhood! On Tuesday, November 18th at 6:00pm, join the Lakeview East Chamber of Commerce at Clark Street Dog (3040 N Clark) for a joyful tree lighting celebration featuring Santa, hot cocoa, cookies from Insomnia Cookies, holiday characters, and plenty of cheer. It will also host a houseware, toy, and book drive benefiting the Chicago Furniture Bank.
On Sunday, November 23rd from 6:00–7:30pm, the Lakeview Roscoe Village Chamber of Commerce will be hosting the annual Lakeview Tree Lighting Ceremony at the intersection of Lincoln, Southport & Wellington outside St. Alphonsus with carolers, gift bags, and complimentary bites from Firecakes Donuts, Hotel Chocolat, and more local businesses. These free, family-friendly events are a great way to kick off the season and connect with neighbors. We hope to see you there, and you can find a full calendar of November and December events from this Chamber here.
 
The beloved Christkindlmarket is officially returning to Wrigleyville this holiday season at Gallagher Way as part of Wrigleyville Wonderland, transforming the plaza into a festive village from November 23rd-December 31st. Visitors can explore more than two dozen local and international vendors, enjoy classic treats like bratwurst, roasted nuts, and hot spiced Glühwein, and browse hand-crafted ornaments and gifts. With free admission every day, Christkindlmarket Wrigleyville remains a great neighborhood tradition—perfect for families, date nights, and anyone looking to enjoy holiday spirit.
Earlier today, I was honored to speak in City Council in memory of Sister Jean Dolores Schmidt following her recent passing, and introduce a resolution celebrating her extraordinary life. As a Loyola alum, I remember Sister Jean as a constant, comforting presence on campus. She was always ready with a smile, a bit of advice, or a word of encouragement for any student who needed it. Her warmth, wisdom, and unwavering belief in the potential of young people shaped generations of Ramblers, long before her national fame during Loyola’s 2018 Final Four run. It was a privilege to help recognize her legacy of faith, service, and joy while sporting the maroon and gold, and we should all look to it to inspire us for years to come. Read her remembrance page on Loyola's website here.
As City Council continues budget negotiations, many details are shifting day by day, and we’ll keep you updated as the process moves forward. For residents looking to better understand the major components of the budget or individual department spending, we recommend visiting the Better Government Association's website, which offers clear, easy-to-read breakdowns and snapshots of the full proposal.
The Weisman Park Advisory Council is looking for neighbors who want to volunteer to keep one of our most beloved local parks thriving! If you’re interested in supporting community events, helping guide park improvements, or simply caring for this newly renovated space, the Council would love to have you. To get involved, email [email protected] or call/text (847) 721-2466. See their flyer here.
A quick reminder that Big Ten football returns to Wrigley Field tomorrow and again next Saturday, as Northwestern hosts two evening matchups under the lights of the Friendly Confines. The Wildcats take on Michigan tomorrow, November 15th, followed by Minnesota next Saturday, November 22nd. Both games will operate under standard Wrigley Field event procedures and restrictions. If you live nearby or plan to attend, please plan ahead for increased traffic and pedestrian activity in the area. Please note that starting at 5:00am on Waveland from Sheffield to Wilton due to a game day event. See the flyer here for details.
Street sweeping for the area that was originally scheduled on Veterans Day has been rescheduled and signs will be posted for it to be swept this coming Tuesday. This applies to the section bounded by Halsted (west), Belmont (south), DuSable Lake Shore Drive (east), and Cornelia (north). Please plan accordingly and move vehicles as needed to ensure crews can thoroughly clean the streets.
In observance of Thanksgiving, our office will close early at 2:00pm on Wednesday, November 26th, and will be closed on Thursday, November 27th, and Friday, November 28th.
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Have a great weekend,
Alderman Bennett Lawson
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44th WARD COMMUNITY FOOD BOX
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GREELEY ADVANCED ENGLISH PROGRAM - DUE TODAY
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FREE LEGAL ADVICE FROM CHICAGO BAR ASSOC - TOMORROW
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CACC FEE WAIVED ADOPTIONS - TOMORROW
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TSO GOOD FOOD DRIVE - TOMORROW
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BLAINE ELEMENTARY TURKEY TROT - SUNDAY
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TUBMAN ELEMENTARY LOU MALNATI'S FUNDRAISER - NOV 18th
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TUBMAN ELEMENTARY TOTS & CAREGIVER STORY TIME - NOV 19th
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LOCAL ELECTED OFFICIALS PANEL (CLICK TO RSVP) - NOV 19th
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HAWTHORNE SCHOOL FUNDRAISER - 20% OFF STATIONERY
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BURLING PARK FUNDRAISER - 20% OFF STATIONERY
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GREELEY READ-A-THON - THRU NOV 19th
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FREE VIRTUAL LEGAL SEMINARS (NEXT ON NOV 19th)
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50% OFF PET ADOPTIONS - THRU NOV 28th
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SOUTHPORT HOLIDAY COCKTAIL CRAWL - DEC 5th
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COMMISSIONER GAINER DONATION DRIVE - THRU DEC 8th
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WEISMAN PARK ADVISORY COUNCIL SEEKING VOLUNTEERS
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LAKEVIEW DOG PARK - DONATION PAGE
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To submit a small business for our weekly shoutout, please complete the form here.
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PUBLIC SAFETY & 19th DISTRICT WEEKLY REPORT:
November 3rd - November 9th
CPD October in Review:
The Chicago Police Department has released its October 2025 in Review, highlighting progress in crime reduction and community engagement. Citywide homicides fell by 38% compared to last October, shootings dropped 43%, and overall violent crime declined 23% year to date—to the lowest levels since 2014. The report also spotlights increased compliance with the federal consent decree, new community training initiatives, and more. You can read the full October report here.
Vehicle Theft Safety Tips:
The Chicago Police Department has released a new flyer with tips on how to help prevent vehicle theft including guidance on anti-theft devices, safe parking habits, and what to do if your car is stolen. You can click here to view the full flyer here and learn how to keep your vehicle secure.
Local Public Safety Statistics:
My office is in regular contact with the 19th Police District about crimes that have occurred recently in our area and that are reflected in the statistics below. The majority of 19th District crimes have occurred outside of our ward. The 19th District also includes the surrounding neighborhoods of Uptown, Lincoln Park, Roscoe Village, Bricktown, Ravenswood, and Lincoln Square.
Please view our website's public safety page here for both proactive measures to stay safe before crimes occur, and also how to respond in the event of a crime.
In order to stay safe, please find the most relevant key safety tips below, and the full list of CPD's safety tips here:
-General
-Personal
-Robbery-specific
-Vehicle-specific
Below you'll find Week 45's CompStat breakdown of crime in the 19th District.
Please note, these statistics are a reflection of the entire 19th District. The boundaries are from Lawrence Ave to Fullerton Ave, from the Chicago River to the Lake.
Here are the key points:
- Year to Date, Robberies are down 29%, and compared to the same 28-day time period in 2024 are down 43%
- Year to Date, Aggravated Battery is down 7%, and compared to the same 28-day time period in 2024 is down 35%
- Year to Date, Burglaries are down 25%, and compared to the same 28-day time period in 2024 they're down 43%
- Year to Date, Felony Thefts are down 12%, and compared to the same 28-day time period in 2024 they're down 16%
- Year to Date, Misdemeanor Thefts are down 11%, and compared to the same 28-day time period in 2024 they're down 17%
- Year to Date, Motor Vehicle Thefts are down 36%, and compared to the same 28-day time period in 2024 they're up 6%
For a list of crime definitions, please see CPD's website here.
See full report below:
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19th POLICE DISTRICT COUNCIL MEETING - NOV 19th
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MENTAL HEALTH RESPONSE RESOURCES
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SCOOTER REPORTING
Please click here to submit a scooter removal request and here for Divvy bike removal. We appreciate your assistance in helping keep our neighborhood clean. By contract, shared bike and scooter companies must remove their property within two hours of a 311 removal request.
Please contact our office directly if you see illegal/dangerous activities on green Lime scooters (riding on the sidewalk, two people sharing one scooter, etc). We are able to work with Lime to potentially administer fines, suspensions, or bans if you can include a photo/video of the behavior, and a time and location.
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See below for ongoing construction and infrastructure projects in our neighborhood and on our website here!
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UPCOMING STREET RESURFACINGS
Please see below the list of streets that have begun resurfacing:
Briar from Broadway to Sheridan will be fully repaved by 11/28, weather permitting.
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CRANE ALERT
Please be aware that there will be a crane lifting a generator to the building at 2800 N DuSable Lake Shore Drive, hoisting from Commonwealth Ave.
Date: Tuesday, Nov 25th (Wednesday, Nov 26th as a backup date for weather)
Time: 9:00am-4:00pm
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ALLEY RECONSTRUCTION ALERT
11/14 update:
We anticipate this project to be completed the week of November 17th, weather permitting. Crews are in the final stages of pouring concrete and installing pavers.
Please be aware of noise in the neighborhood due to construction. In accordance with the Chicago Municipal Code, the Public Building Commission (PBC) is granting permission to the Contractor to begin the workday at 6:00AM and to end the workday at 7:00PM, Monday through Friday; 8:00AM to 5:00PM on Saturdays (if needed); and 9:00AM to 5:00PM on Sundays (if needed) for the duration of the project.
If you have any questions on this alley resurfacing, please reach out to our office for more details.
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HALSTED ARTERIAL RESURFACING
Halsted Arterial Resurfacing - Halsted from Clark to Waveland Ave.
The resurfacing and restriping has been completed. The rainbow crosswalks are currently being repainted and should be complete within the next few weeks.
This work is part of the Chicago Department of Transportation’s Arterial Street Resurfacing - North Area Project, in the 44th Ward. Bigane Paving Co. is the general contractor for this project and Wight & Company is providing resident engineering services for the Chicago Department of Transportation.
The project includes ADA sidewalk improvements, curb and gutter removal and replacement as needed for ADA and drainage compliance, pavement patching, milling and paving the existing asphalt pavement, and striping.
Please be mindful of temporary “No Parking” signs as required for the activity listed above. These temporary signs restrict parking during working hours, while adhering to rush hour restrictions, for the completion of the work.
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REPORTING POTHOLES
Please report any potholes you see by entering in all requests through the 311.Chicago.Gov website for those in the street or alley. If possible, be sure to upload images as well so crews are able to identify the exact location.
For more severe potholes that may need immediate attention, please reach out to my ward office either by email ([email protected]) and include the location and images of the pothole or by calling the office at (773-525-6034).
If your vehicle was damaged due to a pothole, you may be entitled to a financial claim here.
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TIPS FROM TOMMY K - NOVEMBER
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GARBAGE & RECYCLING
Recycling pick-ups for the 44th Ward are occurring the week of November 24th. You can find your full garbage and recycling pickup schedule .
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See below for a list of job fairs, networking events, and more!
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THE CITY IS HIRING
Looking for a job? Try working for the City! Click here to see the full list of job openings currently seeking applicants.
Local government employment opportunities:
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44th WARD 2025 COMMUNITY MEETINGS
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