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The 2nd Ward Newsletter for October 27, 2025
In This Edition:
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Recent Media Appearances
There are a number of significant items dominating Chicago news right now, and I would like to draw your attention to recent statements I have given in some of these areas:
Following the release of Mayor Johnson's initial budget proposal, I spoke with reporters about the challenge of drafting and passing a fiscally responsible budget. You may review my comments here.
I am also quoted in the Tribune's coverage of the disastrous bridge closures plaguing 2nd Ward commuters, which you may read here. I would also encourage you to watch my questioning of CDOT Acting Commissioner Turner during last Wednesday's budget hearing available on my website found here.
This morning, I spoke with Politico about aggressive ICE activity in Lincoln Park last Friday in widespread escalatory operations. Click here to read that story.
Last week, after a shooting on Division Street in Gold Coast, I spoke with ABC 7 about my request for Chicago Police Superintendent Larry Snelling to issue a summary closure of the club allegedly patronized by involved parties. You may view those remarks here.
Each of these issues will continue to evolve, and updates will be provided in future newsletters as needed and as available.
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Doggy Halloween Parade in Streeterville
The 38th Annual Streeterville Doggy Halloween Party and Parade took place on Saturday, seeing record participation of more than 350 costumed dogs, officially making this the second largest dog Halloween parade in the country! The 2nd Ward Team was on-site assisting and was pleased to see so many community members involved with this great event. Thank you to all who contributed to putting together such a fun, unique celebration that raised money for such an important cause, PAWS Chicago.
Click here to view ABC 7's coverage of the event.
Click here to view CBS News Chicago's coverage of the event.
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Halloween Safety Tips
 I'm wishing everyone a safe and happy Halloween this season. Chicago does not have a standard trick-or-treating start time, but generally runs from 5:00 pm - 9:00 pm.
The Office of Emergency Management and Communications (OEMC) has shared safety tips for the community.
Please see some tips below:
- Take a digital photo of your kids in the event of an emergency
- Ensure your child's costume is safe, i.e., fire-retardant, mask with proper ventilation, easy movement, etc.
- Use the buddy system so a child doesn’t get left behind or mixed in with other groups
- Trick-or-Treaters should carry a flashlight, glowstick, or utilize reflective tape
- Know who your children are trick-or-treating with and their contact information
- If you see any suspicious activity, call 9-1-1
- Download the Chicago OEMC App for the latest weather conditions and emergency alerts at gov/oemc or visit the Apple or Google Play stores
- Use the CHI Safe Walk in the Chicago OEMC App to share your walk with friends or family virtually to monitor your location in real-time
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Daylight Saving Time Ends: Sunday, November 2
 Daylight Saving Time ends on Sunday, November 2, 2025. Don't forget to set your clocks back one hour before you go to bed on Saturday evening.
Additionally, it's a great time to check and change your smoke detectors. Ensuring your alarms are in good working order is crucial for your safety.
Enjoy the extra hour of sleep!
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Update: Restoration of the Chicago Avenue Underpass Mural Now Complete
As you may know from one of our newsletters published last month, artist Erik Debat has been working to revitalize the mural in the Chicago Avenue Underpass. We are excited to share that Erik has finished his restoration project, and the mural is now entirely restored.
I would like to again thank Erik for his commitment to upkeeping this mural, along with the Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events for helping us facilitate this restoration. Projects that enrich our public spaces, like Erik's mural, help elevate the character of the 2nd Ward. I hope you are all able to enjoy it.
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Recent Carjacking Arrests:
Community Alerts:
Additional High-Profile Arrests:
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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. to learn more about CompStat.
Please see the 18th District CompStat report below:
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18th Police District Council Meeting: TOMORROW, October 28
Join the 18th Police District council members for their monthly meeting tomorrow, Tuesday, October 28, at 6:00 pm, at the Anti-Cruelty Society, located at 510 N La Salle Dr.
This month, Yvette Loizon will join the meeting as a guest speaker. Yvette is the Chief of Policy at the Cook County State's Attorney's Office, and will provide an overview of major changes implemented in their operations since Eileen O'Neill Burke took over. 18th District Commander Christopher Bielfeldt (or a representative) will be on site to answer questions. If you would like to join via Zoom, please register here. Click here to register for in-person attendance.
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Coffee and Conversation with the 18th District Commander: Thursday, October 30
Join the 18th District CAPS team and Commander Christopher Bielfeldt for coffee and conversation on Thursday, October 30, from 10:00 am to 11:00 am at The House of Glunz, located at 1206 N Wells St.
Meet the officers who patrol your neighborhood and share your concerns or suggestions. If you have any questions, please contact the 18th District CAPS Office at 312-742-5778.
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18th District Strategic Plan Community Conversations: Wednesday, November 5
Join 18th District Commander Bielfeldt and the CAPS team for a conversation regarding their 2026 Strategic Plan. The second of these conversations will take place on Wednesday, November 5, at Park Community Church, located at 1001 N Crosby St, from 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm.
If you have any questions, contact the 18th District CAPS team at 312-742-5778.
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2025 Chicago Police CAPS Meetings Schedule
The Chicago Police Department's Beat community meetings are a key part of the CAPS strategy of partnerships and problem-solving. These meetings are held in-person 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.
18th District: East of the Chicago River and south of Fullerton Avenue.
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SNAP Virtual Town Hall with State Elected Officials: Wednesday, November 5
State Senator Sara Feigenholtz, State Representative Margaret Croke, State Representative Ann Williams, and the Greater Chicago Food Depository will be hosting a town hall to discuss federal cuts to SNAP benefits and community action. The event will take place on Zoom on Wednesday, November 5, at 12:00 pm.
Click here to register.
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2025 2nd Ward Street Sweeping Schedule
The Department of Streets and Sanitation is operating on its regular street sweeping schedule. Sweeping concludes for the season in November. Residents can view street sweepers in real time using the Sweeper Tracker online tool.
Sign up for street sweeping alerts here.
You can check my website to determine which of the seven sections in the ward your street lies within and then check the schedule for your specific sweeping dates. We encourage residents to mark their calendars of sweeping dates in the event that they have visitors or are out of town.
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Compost Your Pumpkins at a Food Scrap Drop-Off Site
 Chicagoans are encouraged to drop off their pumpkins at one of the City of Chicago's 33 food scrap drop-off locations. Please remove any paint or decorations before you arrive, and break your pumpkin up into pieces (optional).
Click here to find a location near you.
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Origami for Everyone at Near North Library: Saturday, November 1
This Saturday, from 10:00 am to 12:00 pm, the Near North Library will be hosting "The Art of Paper Magic: Origami for Everyone." Sign up to learn creative origami designs with neighbors of all ages. Children must be accompanied by an adult.
Click here to learn more.
Click here to view all upcoming events at Near North (select "Near North" under Location on the left side).
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Donate/Volunteer at the Greater Chicago Food Depository
 Hunger is a year-round problem that touches every community in Cook County and every neighborhood in Chicago. Hundreds of thousands of people face hunger every year – yet even one is too many.
Get involved to give back to your community today and make a lasting difference.
Click here to learn more.
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Clothing Drive with the Chicago Help Initiative
The Chicago Help Initiative is accepting donations for warm clothes and outerwear to be dropped off at 721 N LaSalle Blvd. Drop-offs can be made between 9:00 am and 5:00 pm Monday through Friday, or between 8:00 am and 9:30 am on Saturdays. Alternatively, those wishing to donate can find requested items by clicking here.
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Know Your Rights and Resources
The City of Chicago has compiled a guidebook full of resources that could help protect you and your family during interactions with federal agencies. Everyone in Chicago—regardless of immigration status—is protected by rights under city, county, state, and federal law. This guide is designed to help you understand those rights at home, in public, at work, during protests, and while using technology or traveling.
Click here to view the guidebook.
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Haunted Field House at Seward Park Fieldhouse: Wednesday, October 29
The Chicago Police Department's 18th District will be putting on a "Haunted Fieldhouse" at the Seward Park Fieldhouse, located at 375 W Elm St, from 4:30 to 7:30 pm on Wednesday, October 29. Stop by for a free, family-friendly Halloween experience, courtesy of the 18th District CAPS team.
For more information, contact the 18th District CAPS team at 312-742-5778.
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Trick or Treat Old Town: Friday, October 31
The Old Town Merchants and Retailers Association (OTMRA) is inviting you to trick-or-treat at local businesses throughout the afternoon and evening. Join OTMRA for Halloween face painting at Burton Place Plaza from 3:30 pm - 5:30 pm.
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Lake Shore and Seneca Parks Fall Cleanup: Saturday, November 8
Volunteers are needed for the Lake Shore and Seneca Park Fall cleanup on Saturday, November 8, from 9:00 am - 11:30 am. Pitch in to help clean the park and gardens, and help beautify our parks. Tools, gloves, and bags will be provided by the Lake Shore and Seneca Parks Advisory Council. Pizza will be provided by my office at lunch.
Please note: Community Servive credit hours will be given to students. All families are welcome to this community event. Please register in advance here.
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RNRA Annual Meeting and Gala: Tuesday, November 11
Join the River North Residents Association at TAO, located at 632 N Dearborn St, for its 28th Annual Meeting & Gala on Tuesday, November 11th, from 5:30 pm to 7:30 pm. 42nd Ward Alderman Brendan Reilly and 18th District Police Commander Chris Bielfeldt are scheduled to speak. Tickets are required.
Click here for more information.
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