|
|
|
|
WARD SERVICE OFFICE
1447 W. MORSE AVE
CHICAGO, IL 60626
773-338-5796
www.49thward.org
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Alderwoman Hadden, Constituent Services Director Clarissa Steinbrecher; District Council Member Veronica Arreola, School Board Member Ebony DeBerry, and Constituent Services Coordinator Caleb DeBerry.
|
|
|
Good morning neighbors,
I hope everyone had a good May Day yesterday! I was proud to be able to participate in two events right here in our ward. Youth organizers with One Northside coordinated a rally and march to protest unfair labor practices at Target Corporation outside of their Sheridan Rd. location and adjunct faculty with SEIU Local 73 at Loyola University went on strike as their bargaining efforts with Loyola for living wages reached an impasse. Residents, students, and staff were in strong support at both events highlighting the labor victories of the past as well as the challenges many workers are still facing.
It's important to remember that all of the rights and protections that we currently enjoy (though not perfect) were won by everyday people recognizing an injustice and organizing to change the system to make it better. From labor rights to voting rights - nothing has ever been improved without struggle. So as we find ourselves living in difficult times that can feel overwhelming and disheartening, remember that our ancestors faced similar challenges and fought to create a better world for us. It is our shared responsibility to do the same.
Have a safe and restful weekend,
Alderwoman Maria Hadden
|
|
|
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Click the links below to select the section that you want to read!
- CELEBRATIONS & APPRECIATIONS - good news for the week!
- WARD UPDATES - Community announcements, city services, and zoning/development updates
- INFRASTRUCTURE UPDATES - City services and infrastructure notices
- COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT - local events and ways to get involved
- ROGERS PARK ARTS - events, theatre, and other public arts news
- YOUTH SHINE IN 49 - school news, scholarship opportunities, and youth employment offerings
- NEED TO KNOW INFO - alerts, services, and government resources
- ADDITIONAL RESOURCES - links to resources housed on the 49th Ward website
|
|
|
Honoring the Life and Service of Officer Bartholomew
|
|
|
Last Saturday, Chicago Police Officer John G Bartholomew, 38, was killed in the line of duty. Officer Bartholomew served in the 17th District, but had previously served in the 24th District as well. He served in the department for nearly 11 years. On behalf of myself, my staff and the residents of the 49th Ward our condolences go to Officer Bartholomew's family, friends, and colleagues. We are forever grateful for his service and sacrifice.
From his obituary: "John will be remembered as a devoted family man whose life was defined by love, loyalty, and service. He was always the first to step in and help others, known for his generosity and willingness to give without hesitation. He found joy in life’s simple pleasures, including his love for good food, his admiration for Batman, and his unmistakable, contagious laugh that could light up any room. He was deeply dedicated to his work as a Chicago police officer, serving his community with honor, integrity, and an unwavering sense of duty. With a strong knowledge of history and a passion for sharing it, John left a lasting impression on everyone he met. He will be deeply missed and forever remembered."
Visitation will be held on Thursday May 7th from 2-8 PM with a Trisagion Prayer Service at 6:30 PM at St. Andrew's Greek Orthodox Church, 5649 North Sheridan Rd. Chicago, IL. Funeral Service will be held on Friday May 8th, 2026, at 10AM also at St. Andrew's Greek Orthodox Church.
|
|
Celebrations & Appreciations
|
|
Department of Environment Fully Restored
|
|
|
On May 1, Mayor Johnson officially announced the complete reinstatement of the Chicago Department of Environment (DOE), as the department gets full environmental regulatory authority. Now, the environmental remediation team from the Department of Fleet and Facility Management (2FM) and the environmental permitting and inspection team from the Department of Public Health are officially part of DOE, meaning that the City’s key environmental functions will now operate under one roof! Alderwoman Hadden has advocated for this reinstatement since her first term and is delighted to see Chicago take such an important step towards strengthening its environmental efforts.
|
|
IB School Kilmer Elementary Changing Their Name
|
|
|
Back in September, we were so excited to share that our very own Kilmer Elementary School was named an IB World school! To honor this historic milestone, Kilmer has decided they will be changing their name to shape their future identity, and they want your help! Please use this link to vote on their four proposed name changes, ensuring their new title aligns perfectly with the Kilmer mission and vision of academic excellence and global citizenship. The school will be accepting votes until May 15th. We are excited for this new chapter in Kilmer's history!
|
|
|
KNOW YOUR RIGHTS RESOURCES
As Operation Midway Blitz continues and ICE agents have been active around the City, we want to remind neighbors of our Fighting Against Fascist Occupation resources. Know your rights, stay safe, and stay informed. Find our guide here. |
|
|
Neighbors, as you may be aware, recent federal changes to the Supplemental Food and Nutrition Program (SNAP) mean that up to 250,000 neighbors in Illinois are at risk of losing their SNAP benefits due to new work requirements and other eligibility changes. These changes went into effect on May 1.
If you or someone you know relies on SNAP, take action to protect your benefits today.
- Click here to see if you are meeting the new SNAP work requirements.
- If you qualify for an exemption from the new work requirements, you can apply for this exemption here.
- If you are subject to the SNAP Work Requirements, you must do one or a combination of the following activities for an average of 20 hours per week (total of 80 hours per month):
- Work (paid or unpaid)
- Volunteer to take part and comply with an approved qualifying work program that offers activities such as basic education, vocational training, and work-based learning.
- Do self-initiated community service or volunteering with a community-based organization (see more information below)
- Any combination of the above.
|
|
Deadline to Apply for Property Tax Savings is May 15
|
|
|
The deadline for homeowners to apply for property tax exemptions is Friday, May 15. Exemptions are property tax savings that contribute to lowering a property owner’s tax bill.
Note that the Homeowner, Senior, and Persons with Disabilities exemptions are automatically renewed. However, homeowners must reapply annually for the Veterans with Disabilities, in some cases, and the “Senior Freeze” exemptions. The Assessor’s Office mailed seniors and disabled veterans who need to reapply application booklets. These must be turned in by May 15.
Applications can be downloaded at www.cookcountyassessor.il.gov/exemptions, where forms are available in Spanish, Polish, and simplified Chinese. Homeowners can also access the online application at www.cookcountyassessor.il.gov/exemptions.
|
|
Seasonal Street Sweeping Has Begun!
|
|
|
Street sweeping season has begun! If you park a vehicle on the street, please be mindful of the sweeping schedule and make sure to move your vehicle so that we can clean up the trash and organic waste that has accumulated on this winter. The Department of Streets and Sanitation sweeps the city’s streets April through November every year. The city hangs bright orange temporary parking restrictions a few days before sweeping service is scheduled to begin. Those who fail to move their vehicle between the restricted hours of 9 am- 2 pm can be fined $60. The street sweeping schedule is available on our website and is updated for this year.
|
|
Loyola University Student Move-Out April 27 - May 4
|
|
Neighbors, please be aware that students at Loyola University will be moving out of their residence halls from April 27 through May 4. There will be parking restrictions on neighboring streets, which are listed below:
- 1000-1150 W Loyola Avenue from Sheridan to the lake – only street restricted from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.
1201-1220 W North Shore, from Sheridan to the alley - restricted from 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
6200-6259 N Kenmore from Rosemont to Granville - restricted from 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
6200-6359 N. Winthrop from Granville to Sheridan - restricted from 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
For questions or concerns during business hours, please call 773-508-8890 or email [email protected]. If it is after business hours and you need to report an issue, please call Campus Safety at 773-508-7233.
|
|
49th Ward Town Hall May 7th
|
|
|
Join us on Thursday, May 7th, at Jordan Elementary School (7414 N Wolcott Ave) for our second town hall of the year! Hear from your local elected officials, meet some of your fellow neighbors, and learn about all of the ways you can get involved in the various activities through the 49th Ward this summer.
|
|
Citywide Green Mixer May 14
|
|
Chairwoman Hadden of the Committee on Environmental Protection and Energy will host the inaugural Chicago Citywide Green Mixer on Thursday, May 14th, from 6 pm-9 pm, at Garfield Park Conservatory.
The event will bring together residents, community organizations, environmental leaders, elected officials, and city partners to engage on environmental and sustainability issues across our communities in Chicago. The evening will center community voices through a World Café conversation format, where participants will engage in small-group conversations focused on community priorities, root causes, and brainstorming solutions.
WHEN: 6:00 pm on Thursday, May 14
WHERE: Garfield Park Conservatory
300 North Central Park Avenue
Chicago, IL 60624
RSVP: Space is limited; media can RSVP on Eventbrite.
MORE INFO: Access the full program and participating organizations here.
CONTACT: Committee on Environmental Protection and Energy, [email protected]
|
|
Glenwood Ave Arts Fest Artist Applications Open
|
|
|
Artist applications are now being accepted for the 25th Annual Glenwood Avenue Arts Fest! The Glenwood Avenue Arts Fest is Rogers Park’s annual outdoor celebration of arts and community, run by a volunteer planning committee to showcase our neighborhood’s arts, talents, and businesses. Interested in applying? Click here: https://gaaf2026.artcall.org/
|
|
Lighting Project on 1615 - 1758 W Chase & 7200 - 7331 N Paulina
|
|
|
The Chicago Department of Transportation is currently undergoing a residential street lighting project on the 1600 to 1700 block of Chase and the 7200 to 7300 block of Paulina, which will last roughly 2 to 3 weeks, weather permitting. There will be a No Parking tow zone in effect from 6:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. during the duration of the project. Crews are currently working to restore the landscape work, which they estimate will take roughly two weeks.
|
|
Loyola University Construction at 6347 N Broadway
|
|
|
Loyola University is currently undergoing several construction projects, including one at 6347 N Broadway. Construction at this address resulted in the northbound lane closure at N. Broadway on April 4. If you have any questions or concerns, please contact Loyola at [email protected].
|
|
Rogers Park/West Ridge Historical Society Clark St Tour Today
|
|
|
Attention, Chicago history lovers! The Rogers Park/West Ridge Historical Society will be hosting a presentation and walking tour of Clark Street on May 2, from 12:00 p.m. to roughly 2:00 p.m., starting from the Rogers Park Library (6907 N Clark St). The event will start with a talk by neighborhood historian Glenna Eaves, introducing attendees to the people and businesses that served and sustained the community for more than a century. Tickets are not needed to attend the presentation, from 12:00 to 1:00 p.m., and after the presentation, ticketed participants will walk with Glenna up Clark Street from Morse to Greenleaf Avenues. Tickets for the tour are $25, or $20 with RPWRHS member discount. There is no charge to attend the presentation only. Purchase tickets here.
|
|
United Church of Rogers Park Community Feast Today
|
|
|
The United Church of Rogers Park is hosting its 42nd annual Community Feast on May 2, providing a free meal for Rogers Park residents in need. Come join UCRP from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. at 1545 W Morse Ave for a pancake breakfast and a bake sale. There is a $9 suggested donation for those who are able to donate.
|
|
Cinco De Mayo Restaurant Specials
|
|
This Cinco de Mayo, 10 local businesses are bringing the flavor with taco specials, festive drinks, and limited-time deals you won’t want to miss! See the list of local deals below:
- Taquería El Charro (6661 N. Clark St): Chicken Tacos – $3
- Supermercado Casa Roman (6978 N. Clark St): Modelo 12-pack – $17.99
- El Famous Burrito (7047 N. Clark St): Tacos – $2
- La Azteca Produce (7067 N. Clark St): Picaditas – $5; Tacos (Al Pastor, Asada) – $2
- Taqueria La Chapala (7117 N. Clark St.): Tour of Mexico Taco Dinner (Carnitas, Al Pastor, Asada) – $9.99
- Su Taquería El Rey Del Taco (7138 N. Clark St.): Margaritas - $5.99 & Tacos (Pollo, Al Pastor, Chorizo) - $2.49
- La Casa Vieja (7357 N. Clark St.): Quesadillas – $8
- AKAY Tacos (7360 N. Clark St.): Tacos (Pollo, Al Pastor, Ground Beef, Veggie) – $2
- South of the Border (1416 W. Morse Ave.): Free Ghost Tequila & Margarita Tastings from 5 - 7 p.m.
- Los Portales Mexican Restaurant (1418 W. Morse Ave.): Guacamole & Chips – $5
|
|
JASC Medicare Seminar May 5
|
|
|
Medicare information can be confusing, but thanks to the Japanese American Service Committee, navigating the healthcare system just got easier! Insurance Agent Grace Kwon will partner with the JASC to host a free Medicare information session for community members on May 5, from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. at JASC (5700 N Lincoln). Attendees can expect to learn unbiased information to support informed health coverage decisions and feel more confident when navigating the Medicare system. And the best part? It's entirely FREE! If you're interested in attending, RSVP at [email protected].
|
|
Northtown Garden Society Event May 7
|
|
|
Come join the Northtown Garden Society for an evening with Bob Zeni, the Chicago Tomato Man. Bob will be teaching the audience about heirloom tomatoes and their wonderful flavors. This event will be on Thursday, May 7, at 7:00 p.m., at Warren Park (6601 N Western). As a bonus, there will be heirloom tomato plants available to purchase for $12. Learn more here.
|
|
Versiti Blood Center Blood Drive May 7
|
|
|
Versiti Blood Center of Illinois will be hosting a blood drive on May 7, from 1:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. in the Rogers Park Library (6907 N Clark). To make an appointment, call (800)7TO-GIVE or click here. If you can, consider donating blood this May!
|
|
|
Come celebrate our local small businesses and independent creators on May 10, at the GROW/PROGRESANDO space (7056 N Clark St) from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.! The Rogers Park Business Alliance will be holding a Mercadito, which will give Rogers Park business owners the chance to sell their handcrafted goods and for participants to shop small and find something new. Stop by and support a local business!
|
|
Spring Healthy Hearing Event May 15
|
|
|
In honor of National Speech Language Hearing Month, Northwestern University will be hosting a Healthy Hearing event on May 15. If you are experiencing bothersome ringing in the ears or difficulty understanding speech in groups or crowded places. If you attend, you will receive a free hearing screening, demo hearing devices, and more. Call 847-491-3165 to RSVP today.
|
|
Howard Street Carnaval May 16
|
|
|
Chicago’s African & Caribbean diaspora is taking the streets of Rogers Park! The 3rd Annual Howard Street Carnaval, featuring a vibrant parade and festival honoring traditions from across the African and Caribbean diaspora, will be taking place on Saturday, May 16, at Willye B. White Park (1610 W Howard). Interested in learning more? Visit HowardStreetCarnaval.com.
|
|
Plate & Pathways Fundraiser May 16
|
|
|
Consider supporting Plate & Pathways, a local organization dedicated to fighting food insecurity, at their annual fundraiser on Saturday, May 16. Located at the Hairpin Arts Center (2810 N Milwaukee Ave, 2nd Floor), this event will last from 5:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. and will directly support Plate & Pathways' programming. Learn more and get tickets here.
|
|
24th District Council Meeting May 17
|
|
|
The next meeting of the 24th District Council will take place on Sunday, May 17, 2026, from 3:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. at the Edgewater Library (6000 N Broadway). You can access the meeting via Zoom here. Anyone may submit a written public comment by delivering it at the public meeting or by emailing it to [email protected]
|
|
Jarvis Square Match-Up Market May 23
|
|
|
If you are looking for a way to connect with non-profits in the 49th Ward, great news! Jarvis Square will be hosting a Match-Up Market at Jarvis/Greenview on Saturday, May 23rd, from 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Participants can meet local non-profits and learn about the many opportunities to get involved in the City of Chicago. Feel free to email [email protected] to participate as a non-profit.
|
|
Chicago Parents/Caregivers Survey Open Until May 15
|
|
The Family & Community Engagement (FACE) Workgroup of the Every Child Ready Chicago (ECRC) is interested in hearing from parents and guardians when it comes to accessing and engaging with information about early childhood programs and services across Chicago. One of the clearest challenges we've identified is that information is often siloed or hard to navigate — creating real barriers for parents and caregivers trying to find the support their families need.
This survey looks to understand your needs, preferences, and the challenges you face in accessing early childhood information and resources. As a thank-you, you will have the option to be entered into a raffle for a $50 gift card. Access the survey here:https://theounce.co1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_8kdafjAlZsoOI74. The survey takes just a few minutes to complete and is open to any Chicago parent or caregiver of a young child. The survey is open now until May 15th.
|
|
Women Belong Networking Events
|
|
|
You're invited to the meeting of Rogers Park Circle, which is a women's networking event for small business owners in the Rogers Park community. This event will be on the first and third Wednesdays of the month, from 12:00 p.m. to 1:30 p.m., located at Culture of Safety (6970 N Clark). You can register for this event here.
|
|
Prenatal and Family Support Services Available
|
|
|
If you or someone you know is pregnant or expecting, consider exploring Healthy Families Illinois's prenatal and postpartum resources. Healthy Families supports expecting parents and families with children from pregnancy through early childhood. They offer free home visiting services during pregnancy and after birth, free doula support for expecting parents, prenatal education, birth support, postpartum guidance, and referrals to community resources and family support services. These services are at no cost to families, regardless of insurance status, and are provided through Advocate Illinois Masonic Medical Center. Learn more and register here.
|
|
Support a local Rogers Park resident with their top surgery!
|
|
Kyren Epperson, owner of our beloved Culture of Safety (6961 N Clark St), is scheduled for a medically necessary gender-affirming top surgery on April 2, and is requesting the community's help! Not only is the surgery expensive, but the recovery will be a financial burden too. Unlike most people with desk jobs, who can often return to work fully after just 1-2 weeks of recovery, Kyren is told they will not be able to see clients for a minimum of six weeks, thus impacting Culture of Safety's operations. If you are able to, please consider helping Kyren through this process via one of the options below:
- Donate to Kyren's GoFundMe
- Sign up to bring food to Kyren after surgery (via MealTrain)
- Write a Google Review for Culture of Safety. Every bit of support for the business means greater security for Kyren and their partner before and after surgery.
|
|
Chicago Loves Local Campaign Available
|
|
|
Chicago Loves Local is a free, collaborative campaign open to all 77 community areas, designed to uplift neighborhood businesses, amplify local pride, and encourage residents to shop close to home. Through its Instagram platform, the campaign highlights small businesses and commercial corridors across the city, helping drive visibility, storytelling, and local spending. Check out the campaign here, and remember to shop local wherever you can!
|
|
Events at the Rogers Park Branch Library
|
|
|
The Rogers Park Branch Library (6907 N. Clark) offers a variety of events and programming for people of all ages. Make sure to check out a list of their upcoming events and register to attend one. More information is available on its website here.
|
|
Lifeline Theatre Presents:
LOKI - The End Of The World Tour
|
|
LOKI arrives at Asgard, bringing chaos, comedy, and three monstrous (maybe) children. LOKI tangles with Odin, Thor, and the mysterious Freya; each with their own agenda; their own secrets—but all paths lead to one eternal question: In an us vs. them world, can we envision a new mythology?
LOKI closes Sun, June 14, and will be at the Lifeline Theatre (6912 N. Glenwood Ave.) You can purchase tickets here.
|
|
Applications to Perform at Artists of The Wall Due Today
|
|
|
Are you a local musician, band, or performer who wants to take the stage at the Artists of the Wall Festival? If so, you can apply for this gig today! The festival will take place over Father’s Day weekend (June 20–21, 2026) in Loyola Park. Applications are due today, and you can apply here: https://tinyurl.com/aotwmusic
|
|
Uniting Voices Chicago Programs Available
|
|
The Rogers Park Neighborhood Choir is one of 12 after-school programs, offering instruction twice a week on Mondays and Wednesdays at Indian Boundary Park (2500 W Lunt). The choir has three ensembles for varying ages and musical experiences, and begins accepting singers who are 8 years old and entering 3rd grade. Check out the schedule below!
- Allegro (ages 8-10) - Mondays & Wednesdays, 4:15-5:15 pm
- Vivace (10-12) - Mondays & Wednesdays, 5:15-6:15 pm
- Presto (13+)- Mondays & Wednesdays, 6:15 -7:30 pm
Uniting Voices' programming is tuition-based and determined by family annual income. Fill out this form to get involved today.
|
|
HECC Early Learning Programs Currently Recruiting
|
|
|
If you have a child aged 0-5, consider applying for Howard Evanston Community Center's Early Learning program for this upcoming school year. Their Early Learning Programs, Head Start and Early Head Start, provide a comprehensive range of services that include play-based education, health and safety, mental wellness, nutrition, disability support, and strong parent engagement. Interested in enrolling? Click this link to learn more.
|
|
Become a Lifeguard This Summer
|
|
|
Being a lifeguard along Chicago’s gorgeous lakefront or a neighborhood pool is a job unlike any other. You'll be part of one of the country's largest and best-trained lifeguard corps, gaining life-saving skills while making a difference in people's lives. Be part of their team in 2026 & make $20.50 an hour! Apply today & register for a swim test.
|
|
Science in Art Competition Open Now
|
|
|
Students, are you looking to win a prize and create some art along the way? The Willye White Park Advisory Council 2026 Science in Art Competition invites you to select an active, future, or past mission of the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) and create a two-dimensional artwork inspired by or interpreting that mission. (NASA missions are found at www.nasa.gov/missions/.) Submit your original artwork along with an entry form to the Willye White Fieldhouse beginning May 1, 2026, and no later than May 30, 2026. This competition is open to all elementary students, or homeschool equivalents, attending school in Rogers Park. Submissions may be dropped off at the Fieldhouse or mailed to:
Willye White Park
Science in Art Contest
1610 West Howard Street
Chicago, IL 60626
|
|
|
In partnership with the Illinois Department of Children and Family Services (DCFS), A Safe Haven provides communal and familial settings through apartment-style accommodations to promote a sense of belonging in safety. Semi-private, fully-furnished apartments, cribs, linens, groceries, bus vouchers, and more will all be provided. If you are interested in these resources, call 312-372-6707 ext. 131 or 132, or email [email protected].
|
|
Chicago Youth Works Application Portal Now Open
|
|
|
Get Paid. Get Skilled. Get Ahead. Chicagoans from 14 to 24 years old can apply for paid summer jobs and opportunities today at ChicagoYouthWorks.org! Check out this fantastic opportunity for this summer!
|
|
Paid Junior Bike Ambassador Fellowship Available
|
|
|
The Chicago Safe Ambassador program is currently accepting applications for junior bike ambassadors to educate children of all ages about mobility safety in the city. This paid seasonal mentorship is for Chicago residents 16 or older who enjoy working with kids and navigating the city by bike. For more details about the program, please reach out to [email protected]. For those interested in the job, please reach out to [email protected] or fill out this interest form.
|
|
Chicago Park District Summer Jobs Available
|
|
|
The Chicago Park District has plenty of opportunities for teens this summer, from ages 13 and up! To see a list of open positions and submit an application, click here.
|
|
WBEZ School Board Survey Open
|
|
|
Hey, Chicago parents & voters! You get to vote for your first-ever fully elected school board this fall. Inform WBEZ's candidate questionnaire and school board voter guide by telling them what issues are affecting you and your family, and what questions you have for the candidates. Take their survey at wbez.org/survey!
|
|
Jumping Jack Program Available
|
|
|
Are you hosting a block party this summer, and you want to make sure it's the best one yet? Consider applying for a FREE Jumping Jack through the Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events! Jumping Jacks will be available from Saturday, May 23rd through Sunday, September 6th. Fill out the application here.
|
|
IL ABLE Account Info Sessions
|
|
|
Did you know you may be eligible to open an IL ABLE account to save and invest money and build financial independence, WITHOUT jeopardizing your federal benefits, such as SSI or Medicaid? The IL ABLE Account is a simple, tax-advantaged way to save for qualified expenses like housing, education, transportation, and much more. Want to learn more? Then register for a free informational webinar!
These one-hour webinars provide an overview of IL ABLE accounts, eligibility, benefits, and how to get started. Visit illinoisable.com if you want to learn more!
|
|
Connect with Your Elected Officials
Want to get connected with your other elected officials? Find links to sign up to their newsletters and website information below!
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
