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Good afternoon neighbors,
I hope you and your loved ones have had a productive and reflective week. Today marks 25 years since terrorists flew 2 planes into the Twin Towers in New York City, the Pentagon, and a third plane crashed in Pennsylvania. Nearly 3,000 people––family members, friends, neighbors, first responders––died that day, and so many more were impacted in the months years that followed. First responders and so many others impacted by carcinogenic particulate matter, died after not being able to access appropriate healthcare. The wars and conflicts that were initiated as a response to that attack killed millions more.
I recall being in downtown Chicago when the first plan hit, and the dread of thinking that Chicago might be next as we hurried back home when offices downtown closed. It was a surreal feeling, and one I will never forget. Thinking of the sheer amount of lives lost as a result is beyond sobering. I pray for peace to all of those who have lost someone and who have been impacted, but more than that, I hope that we may someday learn to not repeat the cycle of conflict into the future––because we know that if we do not learn from the past, we are doomed to repeat it.
This is even more on my mind this week as we reflect on the one-year anniversary of Midway Blitz.
It’s difficult to absorb the impact that Midway Blitz had on our city: Nearly 4,000 people kidnapped and imprisoned in just 68 days. Over 2,700 of our neighbors and community members deported from their homes. Lives lost. Responders shot. Children tear-gassed. The trauma that we went through as a city—that we are still going through today—is something we will carry with us for a long time.
But I want to also reflect on what we found out about ourselves as a City in the past year. Because we did not just sit back and watch this horror unfold. We stood up and fought back. Neighbors poured onto the streets in the hundreds to pass out whistles and alert their neighbors so they could take shelter. Protestors faced down tear gas to raise their voices and say: not our neighbors. Not our city. Rapid response teams organized to protect their communities and document ICE abuse—and are still doing just that, a year later. I have never been prouder of being a Chicagoan as I have been this past year.
As harrowing and traumatic as those 68 days were, we know that the trauma is not over. Since Operation Midway Blitz, so many more of our neighbors have been detained and deported, even after the media stopped reporting on them. In just the past month alone, over 100 people have been detained in our city. In the last couple of months, we have seen ICE activity begin ramping up once again. A little over a week ago, ICE raided a Home Depot and chased someone onto the freeway, before crashing into their vehicle, pinning it to the median, and detaining the driver at gunpoint. Last week, they detained someone outside of an elementary school in Albany Park. ICE is still very much here, and our neighbors still need our protection and support.
This is not a battle that began and ended in 2025. It’s a sustained campaign against the forces of facism and racism. It will take time, and it will take all of us. And we have to keep fighting against these efforts to deprive our neighbors of the rights that they are entitled to as human beings and residents of this country.
This weekend we celebrate Mexican Independence Day and the Independence Day of Costa Rica, El Salvador, Honduras, Nicaragua, and the land where my parents are from, Guatemala. These celebrations are a great testament to the fights against coloniation throughout history, and the rich histories and cultures that have contributed so much to Chicago. I look forward to celebrating the Mexican Independence Day Parade in Little Village and hope our 40th Ward Neighbors join us on Sunday!
Lastly: Shana Tova to all who celebrate! Wishing you and your families a sweet new year celebration, and hoping for good things to come in the coming year.
Yours in Service and Community, 
Andre Vasquez, 40th Ward Alder |
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| Disaster Recovery Funding
This past August, the U.S. Small Business Administration issued a disaster declaration for the State of Illinois in response to the severe storms of July 27, 2026. Cook County is designated as a primary county under this declaration, which means that homeowners, renters, businesses of all sizes, and private nonprofit organizations that sustained damage in that event may be eligible for low-interest federal disaster loans. Learn more and apply online at sba.gov/disaster! If you need in-person assistance, the SBA has 2 Disaster Loan Outreach Centers, where representatives are available to answer questions and help constituents complete an application one-on-one, at no charge. The centers will operate through Tuesday, September 22nd. Cook County: 3691 W. 183rd Street, Hazel Crest IL 60429 Will County: 5755 W Industrial Drivce, Monee IL 60628
Often with SBA disaster declaration, residents rule themselves out before they ever reach the SBA: they assume that carrying homeowner's insurance disqualifies them, that renters are ineligible, or that they cannot apply because no one ever came out to inspect the damage. None of those assumptions is correct! This program is specifically designed to cover what insurance does not, renters are eligible, and no prior damage report is required. |
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| West Nile Virus Warning: Chicago Department of Public Health (CDPH)
The Chicago Department of Public Health (CDPH) is reporting Chicago’s first two human cases and first death from West Nile virus (WNV) in 2026. CDPH has sprayed insecticide in 15 different community areas over the last several weeks, including Beverly, Burnside, Chatham, East Garfield Park, Lower West Side, Morgan Park, Near West Side, North Lawndale, O’Hare, Pullman, Roseland, South Deering, Washington Heights, West Lawn, and West Pullman. West Nile virus risk in Chicago is currently rated as moderate, and all Chicagoans are encouraged to take precautions against mosquitoes: Use EPA-registered insect repellant that contains ingredients such as DEET, picaridin, IR3535, or oil of lemon eucalyptus according to label instructions. Eliminate standing water: empty water from any indoor or outdoor containers, such as flowerpots, gutters, pet water dishes, and birdbaths on a weekly basis. Keep grass and weeds short to eliminate hiding places for adult mosquitoes. When outside between dusk and dawn, wear loose-fitting, light-colored clothing, long sleeves, pants, socks, and shoes. Make sure that all screens, windows, and doors are tight-fitting and free of holes. Use air conditioning when possible. People who are immunocompromised should consider avoiding outdoor activity during peak mosquito hours from dusk to dawn.
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| From the Block to the Big Screen
The 40th Ward is going to be on the big screen! The 2100 block of Summerdale was the true star of the independent rom-com film "Block Party", which was filmed this summer with the help of real Bowmanville neighbors. A special shout out to 40th Ward neighbor Jeff Graves for helping to organize the block. You can read more about the film via this link! |
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| Ravenswood Water Main ReplacementStarting in October 2026, the Department of Water Management (DWM) will install 2,596 feet of new sewer main to create a more reliable and efficient system. The following blocks will be affected: North Oakley Ave: From W Ainslie to W Argyle West Argyle Street: From N Oakley Ave to N Bell Ave North Claremont Ave: From W Ainslie to 140' South West Lawrence Ave: From N Oakley Ave to N Leavitt North Leavitt Street: From W Lawrence to 135' North North Hamilton Ave: From W Lawrence Ave to 170' North West Argyle Street: From N Hoyne to N Hamilton North Damen Ave: From W Ainslie to 260' North
During completion of the sewer water main installation, DWM will begin outreach as part of the Lead Service Line Replacement Program to replace lead water service lines for all residents within the limits of the newly installed sewer main. Restoration will follow, including full-width street resurfacing along with replacement of damaged parkways and sidewalks. Some of the construction impacts will include: Traffic: If construction crews need to close or limit traffic during construction for safety reasons, you will always be able to reach your home or business. Outside of working hours, a travel lane will be left open for local traffic only. Parking: No Parking signs will be posted as needed during work hours (generally 7am-4pm). Parking outside those hours is allowed, but cars must be moved by the start of the next workday. Crews will try to preserve as much parking as possible. Service transfers: You will be given 24-hours notice when it is necessary to temporarily interrupt water service to transfer water to the new main. In the event of an emergency shutdown, you may not be able to be given prior warning.
We are having a community meeting with neighbors and the 47th Ward to discuss the project on Tuesday, October 6th, 6–8pm at Chappell Elementary (2135 W Foster). Learn more on our website! |
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| | Artesian Water Main ReplacementStarting this month, the Department of Water Management (DWM) will begin installation of a new water main at N. Artesian Ave from Peterson to Granville, including full lead water service line replacement. Here’s what to expect during construction: Temporary lane closures, parking restrictions, and detours Brief, scheduled water service interruptions (neighbors will be notified in advance) Possible discolored water for a short time after service is restored (run cold water until it clears!) Construction noise during posted work hours, typically weekdays Restoration of streets, sidewalks, and parkways will follow after the new main is in service.
Next week crews will begin digging test holes along N Artesian Ave from W Granville Ave to W Peterson Ave, and then start sawcutting the pavement during the week. |
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| Residential Street Resurfacing!The following streets are being resurfaced this month! N. Campbell Ave from Granville to Glenlake N. Campbell Ave from Morse to Pratt N. Hermitage Ave. from Edgewater to Olive W. Balmoral Ave from Ravenswood to Ashland N. Winchester Ave from Balmoral to Berwyn W. Balmoral Ave from Hoyne Ave to Damen W. Carmen Ave from Oakley to Leavitt W. Leland Ave from Manor to the River N. Manor Ave from Lawrence to Montrose
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| Elise Malary PlazaCatalpa between Clark and Ashland is now permanently closed as a result of the new plaza being constructed. If you missed the pre-construction meeting we held earlier this year, you can check out a recording of our pre-construction meeting to learn more about this project and its impact to the community.
Next week, crews will be working on placing irrigation and soil for the planters. The week after, they will pour sidewalk and other concrete work. |
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| Games for Good
Tickets are live for the Friendship Center’s annual Games for Good (formerly known as End Hunger Games)! On Saturday, September 19th from 2pm-5pm, join for an afternoon of fun for the whole family at Begyle Brewing. $40 | General admission includes most event games, food & two beers $20 | Children ages 3 to 12—kids under 3 are free! $110 | Family ticket includes two adults and two kids ($10 savings)
Grab your tickets now! All event proceeds will help provide access to fresh food and vital resources to the estimated 70,000 neighbors facing hunger in Chicago's NW neighborhoods. |
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| Protect Our Care Illinois: HR.1 Medicare Changes Webinar
Join Protect Our Care Illinois for a community conversation regarding what's changing with Illinois Medicaid because of HR1, how these changes could impact Illinoisans who rely on Medicaid, and practical steps you can take to help reduce harm to your clients, patients, and community members.
Whether you're a service provider, advocate, healthcare worker, or simply someone who wants to stay informed, this session will equip you with the tools and knowledge to support the people who depend on Medicaid coverage. Don't miss this opportunity to stay informed and connected!
Register at this link! |
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| Fall Nature Fest 2026!
Join Commissioner Degnen and the Forest Preserves of Cook County for the annual Fall Nature Fest in LaBagh Woods (near Foster and Cicero) this Saturday, September 12th from 12pm-3pm. The fest will feature animals from the Brookfield Zoo (12-12:30pm), a performance by the Jesse White Tumblers (1pm), and dozens of eco-friendly organizations and sustainable small businesses. Visit this link for more information. |
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| Let’s Talk Data Centers
Concerned about data centers? Join a Town Hall in Chicago with State Reps. Cassidy and Williams Sept. 22 to learn how you can take action! When: Tuesday, September 22nd from 6-8 p.m. Where: Center on Halsted, Reception Hall, 3656 N Halsted St What: Town Hall with a panel presentation with expert speakers from the ICJC, breakout small group discussions, a Q&A portion with State Reps. Kelly Cassidy and Ann Williams, sponsors of the POWER Act, and a light meal provided. Participants of the event will discuss data center development in IL, the impacts on community members, and the policy solutions in the Protecting our Water, Energy, and Ratepayers (POWER) Act.
The evening will wrap up with recommendations on how you can take action to help pass the bill this Fall. The data center build out is being pushed by some of the biggest and most powerful corporations in the world, but it isn’t inevitable, and it doesn’t have to come at the expense of Illinois families. |
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| Volunteers Needed for Apple Fest 2026!
Apple Fest is a major neighborhood celebration, and the Lincoln Square Ravenswood Chamber of Commerce is looking for energetic, friendly, and reliable volunteers to help make the weekend a success. Volunteer opportunities include: Gate Greeters: Welcome guests and encourage suggested donations supporting the festival and neighborhood programs. Gate Captains (21+): Lead the gate team and help keep things running smoothly. Set-Up Crew: Help set up tables, chairs, banners, signage, beverage stations, and décor. Teardown Crew: Help break down the festival and leave the neighborhood looking great.
Sign up to volunteer at this link! Eligible organizations can earn funding through the LSRCC’s Service Earned Grant Program based on the volunteer hours they cover. |
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| WANT Community Garden Day!
On September 12 from 9:00am to 12:00pm, WANT is hosting West Andersonville Community Garden Volunteer Day at the West Andersonville Community Garden! Interested volunteers can meet WANT members at the center garden located at Summerdale and Ravenswood, east of the railway. |
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| WANT Community Yard Sale
On September 19th from 9am–4pm, West Andersonville Neighbors Together (WANT) is hosting WANT Block Club's Annual Neighborhood Yard from Bryn Mawr to Foster between Clark and Ravenswood. RSVP to be a vendor at this link! |
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| Hearing in Color at West Ridge Nature Park
West Ridge Nature Park will host a Hearing in Color Performance on September 19 at 6:00PM. This is a moving (literally) performance of an acapella choir that will stop in several places around the park and end in the Nature Play Space for about another half hour performance. |
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| The A.I Doc: Screening and Community Conversation at Budlong Woods Library
Artificial intelligence is reshaping how we work and connect with each other, but what does that really mean for our everyday lives? Visit the Budlong Woods Library on Wednesday, September 16th, from 4–7pm, for a screening of "The AI Doc," followed by a discussion facilitated by the AI Safety Awareness Project. |
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| Love and Longing in Lieder
Join singer Rose Guccione and pianist Paul Dykstra at the Budlong Woods Library on Sunday, September 13th at 2pm for a program of song cycles by Robert Schumann and Richard Wagner. Rose Guccione is a singer, actress, educator, and owner of the singing telegram company, OperaGram.com. Paul Dykstra is an international collaborative pianist, music director, and conductor. All ages welcome! |
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| Volunteer to Tutor Adult English Language Learners Classes at the Rohingya Cultural Center
The Rohingya Culture Center is looking for volunteers to tutor adult English language learners. Schedule and location will be arranged based on volunteer and learner availability. Tutors can be matched with a learner 1-1, or can work with a small group. RCC primarily serves learners working on beginning literacy, but has a range of classes including Computer Class, Citizenship Class, and Job class for higher level learners. Anyone interested in tutoring or learning can call our office at 773-856-0758 / email [email protected] |
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| Public Safety TrendsOverall, violent crime is flat in the 40th Ward for the year so far compared to last year. Citywide, violent crime is down 7.7%. See below for a breakdown of citywide and 40th Ward statistics across all categories. You can visit the City of Chicago’s Violence Reduction Dashboard to learn more! |
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| 20th District Council Monthly Meeting: September
On September 14th from 6:00pm to 7:30pm, The Chicago Commission for Public Safety and Accountability (CCPSA) 20th District Council is hosting their monthly meeting at the Margate Park Field House (4921 N Marine Drive). At this event, neighbors will be able to share their ideas regarding public safety and policing in the 20th District and receive updates regarding the ongoing search for the new CPD Superintendent. Interested neighbors can RSVP at this link! |
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It was great to see so many neighbors out for my favorite event of the year, Bike the Drive! |
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Great to see folks out for the Boards Across Borders Skate Event last Friday! |
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In the past week, we’ve had some great meetings with Warehouse Workers for Justice, who are working to protect drivers for Amazon, and Impact for Equity, a policy center who is working on reimagining public safety. |
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