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WARD SERVICE OFFICE
1447 W. MORSE AVE
CHICAGO, IL 60626
773-338-5796
www.49thward.org
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Good morning neighbors,
I hope you had a great week, I did! In case you missed it, the Monthly Legislative Newsletter was published on Monday with details about all things City Hall. Make sure to check out the rest of the newsletter for fall events and infrastructure updates.
Some highlights from my week:
- Honoring neighbor and Disability Activist Lyndsay Sullivan with an Honorary Street Renaming on Sheridan Road at 7618 N. Sheridan.
- Setting the table for compromise negotiations between PRO and FAIR to win updates to the RLTO.
- Celebrating the 26 graduates of Tesla Training Center's HVAC and Electrician trade program.
- Joining ARISE Chicago for a know your rights training at St. Jerome's Church.
- Hosting our Youth Leadership Council meeting.
- Visiting the Bridges Group Home with MYSI.
- Press Conference sharing Keep Chicago Housed budget needs for 2027.
- Chairing my Environmental Protection Committee and passing student resolutions as well as a City Department ban on the use of single use plastics and styrofoam.
- Meeting with Leadership Fellows from Northwestern on Clark Street.
- Attending a wonderful concert to fundraise for a community aid fund with Northside Community Resources, Protect RP, Indivisible RPWR at the United Church of Rogers Park.
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Don't forget, our Tenant's Rights Workshop with Northside Community Resources is happening at 11am today at Kilmer International Academy 6700 N. Greenview. And the Sullivan Homecoming Tailgate also starts at 11am in the South parking Lot on Bosworth. I hope to see you around this weekend!
Have a safe and restful weekend,
Alderwoman Maria Hadden
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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
- MIDTERM ELECTION INFORMATION - Information on the November 3rd Midterm Election
- 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
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Celebrations & Appreciations
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Celebrate Indigenous Peoples' Day October 12th
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Our city is located on the ancestral land of Indigenous tribes belonging to the Council of Three Fires, which is comprised of the Ojibwe, Odawa, and Potawatomi Nations. Chicago also had original inhabitants from the Miami, Ho-Chunk, Menominee, Sac, Fox, Kickapoo, and Illinois Nations. Let us honor the rich contributions of our Native People to our society by recognizing Monday, October 12, as Indigenous Peoples Day.
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Sullivan Kicks Off Centennial Class with Alumni Celebration and Homecoming Weekend
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Roger C. Sullivan High School is celebrating their 100th class this year and the celebrations will happen through June 2027. This week they kicked off with a memorable homecoming week and a celebration with alumni. As part of the kick off event, they inducted a new Notable Alumni into their Hall of Fame, Natasha King! Coach is not only a successful Sullivan alum doing great work in our community, but she was a fierce Lady Tiger basketball star who shared her talent as a coach for the next generation of Sullivan basketball players.
Happy Centennial Homecoming Sullivan and Congrats Coach King!
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Committee on Environment Interns Pass Resolutions during Committee Meeting
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This summer, the Committee on Environmental Protection and Energy worked with two high school interns to draft, introduce, and pass resolutions related to environmental issues. Karina, a high school junior, wrote and passed a resolution calling on the City to develop strategies to mitigate the health and mental health impacts of rising temperatures. Ambika, a high school senior, wrote and passed a resolution calling on the Illinois General Assembly to pass the POWER Act, which would establish statewide regulations for data centers.
Thank you to these young future leaders for their dedication and leadership in facilitating important conversations and pushing for additional government interventions to help respond to climate change. It's especially important that we uplift young voices on these issues, as they will be most impacted by climate change.
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Refuse Collection for Indigenous Peoples' Day Holiday
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In observance of Indigenous Peoples' Day, the Department of Streets and Sanitation will be making minor changes to the refuse and recycling schedule the week of October 12th. Streets and Sanitation will collect all refuse Tuesday through Friday. To ensure refuse is collected, residents should leave their black carts accessible throughout the week of collection, not solely on the regular collection day.
With the shift in the regular collection schedule, residents might see a slight delay in their regular trash collection. For more information on your regular collection day, you can email my office at office@49thward.org, call 773-338-5796, or check the schedule on the 49th Ward map.
Please also be advised that in observance of the holiday, the 49th Ward office will be closed on Monday, October 12th. It will reopen on Tuesday, October 11th, at 9 am.
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Volunteer to Help with the New Jarvis Square Mural
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By this Fall, Jarvis Square in the historic neighborhood of Rogers Park will be the home of a beautiful new mural designed by local artist Oscar Joyo. Oscar is a Malawian-born, Chicago-based artist who has created murals across the city. He specializes in afro-futuristic portraiture with an emphasis on nature and the power of community. Follow his work at oscarjoyoart.com and @oscar_joyo.
There is an open call for volunteers wanting to assist with preparation work for the mural. Interested residents should fill out the Google form at bit.ly/JarvisMuralHelp. Those interested in donating should fill out the form linked above and contact Artist Assistant Lexi Costantini and Community Outreach Liaison Jessica Vann at leximakesyoulaugh@gmail.com and jdotme@jessvanncreates.com. Donations can be made between 6 am and 7:30 p.m., Monday-Friday.
Mural staff are at the site every weekday and weekend from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. (weather permitting). As of this week, most of the wall has been primed, painted, and gridded into sections. The next phase in the project is to render the figures on the wall.
Finally, please be advised that the southwest alley bounding Jarvis Square will be blocked off between 7:30 a.m. and 6:00 p.m. while work is underway, except when mural staff removes the cones and barriers to allow passage for garbage/recycling trucks.
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Tenants' Rights and Fair Housing Event October 10th
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Join the 49th Ward, Uptown People’s Law Center, and North Side Community Resources for tenant rights training at Kilmer International Academy, 6700 N. Greenview. The event will take place on Saturday, October 10th, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.
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Free Lime Helmets Available in Ward Office
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The 49th Ward Office has a limited number of free helmets, courtesy of Lime. These helmets will be made available during office hours on a first-come, first-served basis. One helmet will be provided per household. Our office is open Monday-Wednesday, 9 a.m.-5 p.m., and Thursday, 9 a.m.-3 p.m.
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Updates on Green Alley Bounded by Rogers, Wolcott, Chase, and Honore
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Crews are halfway through the green alley installation for the alley bounded by Rogers, Wolcott, Chase, and Honore. Most of the sewers and catch basins have been replaced. Concrete is scheduled to be poured over the next few weeks. Once the concrete dries and cures, the alley will reopen for vehicular use.
The Green Alley program is an initiative through the Chicago Department of Transportation to create more environmentally friendly and resilient infrastructure throughout our city. Green alleys incorporate a variety of characteristics, including:
- Permeable pavement (asphalt, concrete, or pavers) that allows stormwater to filter through the pavement and drain into the ground instead of collecting on hard surfaces. This can reduce garage and basement flooding.
- Catch basins connected with a perforated pipe and installed in a retention trench to capture water and funnel it into the ground.
- High-albedo pavement, a lighter-colored surface that reflects sunlight instead of absorbing it, helping reduce the urban heat island effect.
- Recycled materials, such as concrete aggregate, slag, and recycled tire rubber.
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Estes Water Main Replacement Updates
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The Department of Water Management (DWM) is installing a new water main in the 49th Ward on Estes between Ridge and Clark. Excavation of the north side of Estes (westbound lane, between Ridge and Damen) began on August 11th. Construction will only take place during the week. Only in cases of emergency will construction be done on a weekend.
This past week, contractors finalized construction work on Estes between Ridge and Wolcott. After contractors disinfect the pipe on Estes, they will replace the lead service lines in the area. Contractors expect to start service line replacements on the first portion of the project (between Ridge and Wolcott Ave) late next week. Contractors will continue installing the new water main toward Clark.
No lead service line work, water service interruptions, or restoration work is scheduled for this week. The Department of Water Management (DWM) will relay any changes to our office.
A partial lane closure remains in effect on the northern side of Estes (westbound lane, between Ridge and Damen). Local traffic may be limited during work hours due to equipment staging and the movements of other machinery needed to perform the work. One lane will always remain open in each direction during construction hours for buses and regular traffic. With the lane closure in effect, local traffic will have limited access. Emergency vehicle access will be maintained for the duration of the closure.
"No Parking” signs will be posted on both sides of the street during construction hours (7:00 AM – 4:00 PM) where work is being performed. Parking will be allowed outside of work hours and on weekends. All signage will be placed 48 hours before work begins and will be limited to the block where work is actively taking place or being staged. Crews will work to preserve as much parking as possible. "No Parking" signs will only be posted where crews are actively working and the parking restrictions will move along as the crew makes progress in the project.
Residents in the affected address range (2040 - 1790 W. Estes Ave) should enter their contact information in the survey here. We receive weekly updates about this project and would like to relay information that may directly affect residents on this block.
Please contact our office with any inquiries at Office@49thward.org or call 773-338-5796.
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Upcoming Street Grinding & Resurfacing Schedule
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Neighbors, please be advised of the upcoming street grinding and resurfacing schedule for the 49th Ward, provided by the Department of Transportation. Please be aware of all orange CDOT signs in the public way to avoid being ticketed or towed.
Street resurfacing schedule:
- Damen between Rogers and Jarvis (7400-7700 N. Damen) - Scheduled for 10/19/26
- Damen between Fargo and Jarvis (7400-7432 N. Damen) - Scheduled for 10/20/26
- Damen between Birchwood and Fargo (7432-7500 N. Damen) - Scheduled for 10/20/26
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Midterm Election Information
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2026 Midterm Election Key Dates
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September 24, 2026: Board of Elections begins to send out Vote by Mail ballots
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October 1, 2026: Early Voting & Registration opens at downtown Supersite (137 S. State Street) and Board of Elections Office (69 W. Washington)
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October 6, 2026: Last day to submit paper voter registration forms (online and in-person registration remains available)
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October 18, 2026: Last day for online voter registration (in-person registration is available through Election Day)
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October 19, 2026: Early Voting and Registration open in all 50 wards
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October 29, 2026: Last day to apply for a Vote by Mail ballot
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November 3, 2026: General Election Day (6 am - 7 pm)
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Are you interested in being a poll worker for the November 3, 2026, Midterm General Election? Visit pollworker.chicagoelections.gov to learn more and apply. You must be a US citizen and a registered voter in Cook County - and you can earn up to $230 for your service. If you are bilingual in Spanish, Chinese, Hindi, Polish, Korean, or Tagalog, the Board of Elections is requesting your support. Do you know a high school junior or senior with a GPA above 3.0 and an interest in government? Let them know they can serve as an election judge and see how democracy works from behind the polling place curtain.
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Early Voting Opens October 19th in All 50 Wards
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Early voting for the 2026 Midterm General Election begins on Monday, October 19th, in all 50 wards. Chicago voters may vote at any Early Voting location through November 2nd.
Any voter who needs to register to vote for the first time or file an address update or name change must show two forms of ID, one of which reflects the voter's current address. A list of acceptable forms of ID is available on the Board of Elections' website.
In the 49th Ward, voters can vote early at Willye B. White Park, 1610 W. Howard. A full list of early voting locations is available on the Chicago Board of Elections' website.
Voters are allowed to bring in notes with them to a polling place when casting their ballot.
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How to Pull a Sample Ballot
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Voters wanting to view a sample ballot ahead of casting their vote may obtain one on the Chicago Board of Elections' website.
Simply input your information on the Board of Elections' "Your Voter Information" page and click "Submit." From there, a window will pop up to select the eligible voter. Once you click your name, you will scroll approximately halfway down the page, where you can open a sample ballot by selecting a party designation and preferred language. Sample ballots are available in English, Spanish, Chinese, Hindi, Polish, Korean, and Tagalog.
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Apply to Vote By Mail By October 27th
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Any Chicago voter can file an online application to vote by mail for the 2026 Midterm General Election. A voter does not need a reason or an excuse to vote by mail.
Under Illinois law, voters have the option to join a permanent vote-by-mail roster to have their ballots sent directly to their preferred mailing address ahead of every election. Voters can opt in when applying for a Vote by Mail ballot online.
Voters will receive a ballot in the mail with instructions on how to fill it out and return it. By law, any ballot postmarked Wednesday, November 4th, or later cannot be counted. If a voter places a ballot envelope in a mailbox on November 3rd in the afternoon or evening, they risk the chance of the envelope being postmarked on November 4th and, therefore, being considered ineligible to be counted.
The United States Postal Service will not guarantee your Vote By Mail return ballot envelopes will be postmarked the same day that you mailed it. Any ballot postmarked after Election Day on November 3rd will not be accepted. USPS recommends voters take additional precautions and mail their completed Vote By Mail Ballot at least one week (October 27th) before Election Day.
All qualified ballots properly postmarked by Election Day (November 3rd) and received up to 14 days after (November 17th) will be processed and counted for the 2026 Midterm General Election. The Chicago Board of Elections will send an email when it receives your ballot return envelope, and again when your ballot has been processed and counted.
Voters may also return their mailed ballot to a Secured Drop Box at any Chicago Early Voting location before Election Day. Mail ballots may also be delivered in person to the Election Board at 69 W. Washington, Sixth Floor.
Voters who request a mail ballot but would prefer to vote in person can surrender their mail ballot at any early voting location or their polling place on Election Day to opt for an in-person ballot instead. Voters are NOT allowed to vote by mail and at an in-person location; they must choose only one method of voting.
If a person requests a mail ballot and it is not received by Election Day, voters will still have the opportunity to cast their ballot. Voters who do not receive or lose their mail ballot may complete an affidavit at their polling place on Election Day stating that the ballot was never received or was lost.
Please note that precinct polling places do not have drop boxes on Election Day. Precinct election judges cannot accept Vote By Mail ballots, and Vote By Mail ballots returned at precinct polling places will not be processed. Voters instead can use any of the drop boxes open on Election Day to return their Vote By Mail ballot.
For more information and to complete the vote-by-mail application, visit the Board of Elections website here. The deadline to apply for a mail ballot is Thursday, October 29th, at 5 pm.
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Share Your Feedback on the Glenwood Sunday Market
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Every year, Glenwood Sunday Market conducts a VERY brief survey about how their shoppers spend their time and money at the market and around Rogers Park.
You can take the survey here. It only takes a minute or two.
Your purchases matter! This survey helps them measure the market’s economic impact and show local and state officials why farmers markets are an important part of our local economy.
The Glenwood Sunday Market is every Sunday, 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m., until October 25, at Glenwood and Morse.
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2nd Annual Clean-Off Challenge
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Cleanup Club Chicago is leading Chicago in a second Clean-Off competition this year, this time against Philadelphia AND Los Angeles! The goal is to see which city can clean up the most trash in October, and all litter cleanups will count whether done at a group event or individually. All litter cleanups must be submitted through the form on the Clean-Off webpage, and photos are required. For more information on the rules and how to participate, please visit the official webpage here: https://www.chicagoenvironmentalists.org/the-clean-off.
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Sign Up for Fall Classes at the Howard Evanston Community Center
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The Howard Evanston Community Center (HECC) is excited to offer Saturday registrations for their English as a Second Language and GED classes in October (10/10, 10/17, 10/24, 10/31) to accommodate individuals who work during the week. They also welcome walk-in registrations on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays.
Register in person at 7648 N Paulina!
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Circles and Ciphers: Restorative Justice through Hip-Hop and the Arts
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The Rogers Park/West Ridge Historical Society will host Akeem Soyan from Circles and Ciphers as part of a living history event. Akeem Soyan is a multidisciplinary artist, storyteller, and restorative justice practitioner working at the intersection of music, film, and community healing. Born and raised in Uptown, Akeem is Co-Executive Director at Circles & Ciphers, a hip-hop-infused arts organization focused on empowering young people in Rogers Park.
Circles & Ciphers specifically targets young artists of color, aged 18-29, who have been impacted by violence and incarceration. The organization uses unique tools, such as peace circle training, to support personal growth and community engagement.
Come and hear more about Akeem’s personal story and the work that Circles & Ciphers does to help individuals heal, create, and build leadership skills through artistic expression and restorative practices.
The event will take place on Saturday, October 10th, at 10 am at the the Rogers Park Library, 6907 N. Clark. The program is free and open to all, but space is limited. Register online in advance to reserve your place.
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Attend The Rocky Horror Picture Show Screening
in Jarvis Square on October 10th
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Let’s do the Time Warp again! Jarvis Square Alfresco is bringing The Rocky Horror Picture Show to the square for a free outdoor screening!
And it wouldn’t be Rocky Horror without the extras: free prop bags, themed cocktails, and R Public House Rocky Meatloaf. 🔥 Grab your crew, bring your best Rocky Horror energy, and get ready for a wild night in Jarvis Square.
For more information, visit RPBA's website.
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'Blers Bash Fan Fest October 10th
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Join the Loyola men’s and women’s basketball teams for the inaugural ‘Blers Bash Fan Fest on Saturday, October 10, inside Gentile Arena! Admission is FREE, and the event features youth basketball skills stations, autograph sessions, photos with the players, music from a local DJ, and other interactive kids' activities. The event is open-house style with doors opening at 11:00 am until 2:00 pm.
Visit www.loyolaramblers.com/blersbash for more information and to RSVP!
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Chicago Day of the Girl October 11th
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Chicago is a global city — and its girls prove it every day. The girl from Englewood carries Mississippi in her bones. The girl from Little Village brings Michoacán in her voice. Roseland, Pilsen, Rogers Park, Austin — every neighborhood holds a world. Yet segregation creates cultural distance between girls who live just miles apart and never truly exchange space.
This year's Chicago Day of the Girl event will address segregation. Segregation is not just a housing issue. It is a girlhood issue. When girls only know their own block, their sense of what is possible stays small. LadyPalooza is a room where a girl from Roseland sits beside a girl from Rogers Park for the first time. Where a girl with roots in Lagos recognizes herself in a girl with roots in Jalisco. Where the city’s invisible walls come down for one full day — and girls realize they were never as alone as geography made them feel.
Chicago Day of the Girl takes place on Sunday, October 11th, from 10 am to 3 pm. For more information and to register, visit ChicagoDayoftheGirl.com.
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Giant Puppet Making Workshops
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GROW/PROGRESANDO is hosting a series of puppet-making workshops in celebration of Día de los Muertos. Led by Abby Palen, participants will have the opportunity to help design and paint a giant puppet celebrating Mexican culture and Día de los Muertos. Then, see the collaborative creation come to life during the Catrina Walk on November 1st.
The workshops will take place on October 12th, 19th, 27th, and 30th from 6-8 p.m. at the GROW/PROGRESANDO space at 7056 N. Clark.
For more information, visit RPBA's website.
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Sign Up for ESL Classes at Sullivan High School
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Sullivan High School is partnering with Truman College to offer Free Adult ESL Classes!
A registration event will take place next Wednesday, October 14 from 2:30-6:30pm, at Sullivan. The class will begin on Tuesday, October 20, and will run for 8 weeks on Tuesdays & Thursdays from 4-6pm, all held at Sullivan.
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Blood Drive at Rogers Park Library October 15th
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Versiti is excited to partner with Abbott and the Big Ten for the “We Give Blood” campaign! As a special thank-you, donors can choose their favorite Big Ten school and receive an exclusive Big Ten blood donor T-shirt, while supplies last. Whether you’re cheering for your favorite team or just want to help save lives, one donation can make a meaningful difference for local patients and families.
Join the Versiti and Abbott teams at the Rogers Park Library (6907 N. Clark) on Thursday, October 15th, from 1- 5 p.m.
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Join Good News Partners' Associate Board
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Good News Partners, a local affordable housing and shelter provider in Rogers Park, is recruiting for their Associate Board! Individuals interested in this position can apply here. The deadline is October 15th!
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24th District Strategic Plan Community Conversations
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Each year in the fall, the Chicago Police Department hosts Community Conversations throughout the city. These conversations are an opportunity for Chicagoans to participate in the creation of their district’s strategic plan for the following calendar year. The valuable feedback provided by participants at these conversations is used to develop community-driven crime reduction strategies, as well as community engagement priorities, and is an integral part of the Chicago Police Department’s implementation of the various reforms outlined in the consent decree.
The first 24th District Community Conversation will take place on Thursday, October 15th, at 6 pm at Warren Park, 6601 N. Western. The second Community Conversation will take place on Thursday, November 12th, at 7 pm at Pottawattomie Park, 7340 N. Rogers.
The 24th District will review these conversations to shape its 2027 Strategic Plan. For more informatio, to register to attend a conversation, or to complete a survey sharing your prioritieis, visit chicagopolice.org/community-conversations/.
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Circles and Ciphers Fundraiser October 17th
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Join Circles & Ciphers at their fundraiser on October 17! Everybody Eats envisions a community where everyone can thrive—Circles and Ciphers advances this vision by helping young people heal, create, and grow. Following funding cuts, Circles and Ciphers and the United Church of Rogers Park are bringing Rogers Park and the Circles & Ciphers community together to honor and celebrate our history, invest in our future, and sustain this work.
The event will feature:
- A community meal
- Performances from the neighborhood and C&C artists
- A storytelling panel
The event will take place from 6-10 p.m. on Saturday, October 17, at the United Church of Rogers Park, 1545 W. Morse.
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Volunteer with Care for Real at the Chicago Fall Classic!
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Care for Real is proud to be the Official Charity Partner of the 2026 Chicago Fall Classic Half Marathon, 10K & 5K and is seeking volunteers to help make race day a success!
Volunteers are needed at Montrose Harbor on Saturday, October 17, from 5:45-11:30 a.m.
Volunteers may assist with participant check-in, water stations, course direction, finish-line food, and other race-day activities. No running experience is needed, but volunteers should expect to stand for the entire shift. Volunteers should dress for the weather and come ready to cheer on participants! All volunteers will receive a free event shirt.
Sign up to volunteer with Care for Real: vhub.at/ChicagoFallClassic.
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Pop-Up Dance Party October 18th & 25th
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Join friends and neighbors for a pop up dance party from TurnUp in Jarvis Square. Proceeds from this event go towards supporting A Just Harvest.
The event will take place in front of Charmer's Cafe in Jarvis Square on October 18th and 25th, starting at 10 am.
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24th District Council Meeting October 18th
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The 24th District Council will hold its next monthly meeting on Sunday, October 18th, at 3:00 p.m. at Loyola Park, 1230 W. Greenleaf. Come by to hear updates and share feedback with district council members.
To learn more about the 24th District Council and view upcoming meetings, visit CCPSA's website here.
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Celebrate Halloween at the Rogers Park Library
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The Rogers Park Library, 6907 N. Clark, is hosting a series of events to get you in the spooky spirit this October!
- Wednesday, October 21, 5:30 pm:
The Innocents (1961) film screening
Rated PG
- Monday, October 26, 6-7:30 pm:
Spooky Music Jam
Open to all ages!
- Wednesday, October 28, 6-7 pm:
Book discussion
We Have Always Lived in the Castle by Shirley Jackson
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Family Fall Halloween Fest October 24th
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Halloween fun is coming to Jarvis Square!
Bring the family to the Family Fall Halloween Fest for an afternoon of fall fun, treats, music, and plenty of Halloween spirit. Come in costume, bring the kids, and enjoy a festive afternoon together in the Square.
Family Fall Fest will take place in Jarvis Square on Saturday, October 24th, from 2 to 6 pm.
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Upcoming Leone Beach Park Advisory Council Events
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Join the Leone Beach Park Advisory Council for a variety of programming throughout the fall. There's something for everyone!
- Sunday, October 25th, 9:30 a.m.:
Monthly conservation work day (4th Sunday of each month)
(Leone Beach Park, 1222 W. Touhy)
For more information and to sign up to receive emails from the Leone Beach Park Advisory Council, email leone.nature@gmail.com.
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Trunk or Treat at Willye B. White Park October 30th
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Join your neighbors at Willye B. White Park (1610 W. Howard) on October 30th from 3 PM- 6 PM for a spooky afternoon of candy and fun! All ages are welcome, and costumes are highly encouraged.
Adults/parents/guardians must be accompanied by a child. Treats available while supplies last. Festivities will move inside in the event of inclement weather.
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Haunted Fieldhouse at Pottawattomie Park October 30th
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Get ready for this annual favorite Halloween tradition! The Pottawattomie Park fieldhouse will be transformed into a spooktacular experience for visitors. Come dressed in your favorite costume and get ready for a fun-filled ghostly time! Fun for all ages! Activities include fun games, face painting, music, snacks, and a best costume competition
Children under 12 are recommended to have parent or adult supervision. The Haunted Fieldhouse will take place on Friday, October 30th, from 4:30-7:30 pm at Pottawattomie Park, 7340 N. Rogers.
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Halloween on Howard Street
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Get ready for a Halloween afternoon on Howard Street! Bring the little ghosts and goblins for trick-or-treating at area businesses, tasty food, plenty of candy, and a costume contest where the best-dressed can show off their Halloween spirit. Then settle in under the stars for an outdoor showing of Hocus Pocus at 5:30 p.m.
Come in costume, bring your crew, and make a little Halloween magic on Howard Street! The event kicks off on Friday, October 30th, at 4 pm in Callan Plaza (621 W. Howard, Evanston).
For more information and to see a list of participating businesses, click here.
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2026 Rogers Park Halloween Map
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Neighbors are pitching in to help you get in the spooky spirit this Halloween! Visit tinyurl.com/HalloweenRP2026 to view the neighbor-made, neighbor-managed map of Rogers Park and West Ridge homes and businesses participating in Halloween festivities on October 31. The map focuses mainly on trick-or-treating, but it also includes decorated homes, photo opportunities, and neighborhood events on Halloween (Saturday, October 31, 2026).
Want to be included? Fill out this Google Form for your home or your business. The website is updated frequently with new submissions.
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Sign Up for No School Day Camps at Culture of Safety
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No School Day Camps are BACK at Culture of Safety! Looking for interactive, affordable, empowering day camps for the days when CPS is closed? Check out our No-School Day Camps & Summer Camp. All camps are offered at sliding scale/tiered pricing. All camps are neurodivergent-friendly and LGBT-affirming. Immigrants welcome! https://bit.ly/COSKidsCamps
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Events at the Rogers Park Branch Library
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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.
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Fall Exhibition and Open Studio at Greenleaf Art Center
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Join the Greenleaf Art Center, 1806 W. Greenleaf, for its fall exhibition and open studio on Saturday, October 24th, starting at 5 pm. The acrylic painting "Poppy Field" by artist Carole Gibb will be featured.
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Lifeline Theatre Presents: A Wrinkle in Time
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Ever since her father vanished under mysterious circumstances, Meg Murray’s life has been spiraling out of control. But one dark and stormy night, Mrs. Whatsit, Mrs. Who, and Mrs. Which appear with a promise to help rescue him from the monstrous darkness that threatens the universe.
Join Meg, her brother Charles Wallace, their pal Calvin, and a host of extraterrestrial friends and foes as they journey into the heart of a terrible evil in the hope of reuniting a fragmented family.
A Wrinkle in Time previews at Lifeline Theatre, 6912 N. Glenwood, on Friday, September 11. The show will open on September 14th and run through October 18th. Learn more and purchase tickets online.
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Theatre Above the Law Presents: Grimm
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In this original Theatre Above the Law adaptation by Michael Dalberg (Cyrano, The Blood Countess, The Strange Case of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde), Jakob Grimm is transported through the moon in search of his brother Wilhelm after fighting the wolf off of granny and Little Red. He ends up in a cabaret bar hosted by the wolf, Little Red, and several survivors of their stories.
The show opens October 9th and will run through November 1st. Performances are Fridays and Saturdays at 7:30 pm and Sundays at 3 pm. All performances will be held at the Jarvis Square Theater, 1439 W. Jarvis. Tickets range from $15 to $30 and can be purchased at theatreatl.org or by calling 773-655-7197.
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Lifeline Theatre Presents: Sugar Plum Fairy, P.I.
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Don't miss the world premier of Sugar Plum Fairy, P.I. at the Lifeline Theatre! Step into the sugary, shadowy world of Sugar Plum Fairy, P.I., a fairy-tale noir mystery filled with crime and double-crosses! During the dark days of Candy Prohibition, hard-boiled detective Sam Sugarplum and his sharp-witted partner Goldilocks are out to solve the baffling case of a missing black sheep. Inspired by The Maltese Falcon, this clever, immersive production blends your favorite storybooks with noir tropes. Grab your trench coat, make sure your lollipop stash is well hidden, and help Goldilocks and Sam solve the case! A world premiere production!
The show opens October 1st and runs through November 8th. More information and tickets are available for purchase online.
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The Factory Theatre Presents: Radical Futures
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Radical Futures, a world premiere play written by B.Z. Florida and directed by Kayla Menz, opens at The Factory Theater, 1623 W. Howard, on October 9th and runs through November 21st.
In a failing dive bar, two estranged friends try to reconnect over hallucinogenic cocktails that trigger visions of tomorrow. As these sci-fi visions grow wilder and more intense, one question looms large: does their friendship have a future? A world premiere play written by B.Z. Florida and directed by Kayla Menz.
Learn more and purchase tickets on The Factory Theater's website.
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6311 Arts Presents: Portrait Mode and Trying to Keep it Together
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Keep your focus on the subject and let the rest melt away in this human-centric exhibition. Artists: Mr. Brooks, Alejandra Guerrero, Hector Hernandez, Eddwin Meyers, Harry Sudman, Adrian Zavala, with video by DePaul Experimental Filmmaking and sculpture by Nancy Pirri.
In the side galleries, see artist Brian Eaton going solo in "Trying to Keep It All Together."
Both shows run through October 17th. For more information, visit 6311 Arts' website.
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Teen Fallapalooza October 16th
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My CHI. My Future. is excited to kick off Chicago’s 2026 Fall Fest initiative with Fallapalooza, a teen-focused celebration planned by young people from The Alliance 98 and Urban Male Network in partnership with the Mayor’s Office.
Designed for teens ages 14–19, Fallapalooza provides a FREE, safe, fun, and welcoming environment for young people to connect with peers and enjoy an evening of engaging activities, including:
- A taco bar
- Arts and crafts
- Spooky activities
- Laser tag
- Costume competition with prizes
- And more!
Date: Friday, October 16, 2026
Time: 5:30–8:00 PM
Location: Harold Washington Library Center, Winter Garden (Enter through the 401 S. Plymouth Court entrance)
Pre-registration is strongly encouraged. Register today!
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Apply for the North Side CCPSA Youth Vacancy
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Are you a young leader (18–24) from Chicago’s North Side who is passionate about public safety and police accountability? A seat is opening on the Community Commission for Public Safety and Accountability (CCPSA), and the District Council Nominating Committee is now seeking applicants.
Applicants must submit an application, resume, and three letters of support; meet age and residency requirements; and demonstrate strong leadership and the ability to work well with diverse communities and public safety stakeholders.
Visit the CCPSA's website to learn more, register for upcoming virtual information sessions, and apply before October 18th.
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Reduced Transit Fares for Students
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Thanks to additional funding from the Northern Illinois Transit Authority (NITA) Act, the cost for Chicago’s students to ride the CTA and PACE is now just 75 cents per ride! This fare is available any time of the day, any day of the week, even during summer and school breaks, for all K-12 students with a valid Student ID. For help getting started, families can visit the student reduced fare pages on CTA, Metra, or Pace.
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No-Cost Vaccines Available for Students
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Throughout the fall, the Chicago Department of Public Health (CDPH) will be providing student vaccines required by CPS at no cost to families. These include the MMR (measles, mumps, and rubella) and varicella (chickenpox), as well as seasonal vaccines for the flu and COVID-19. Please visit the CDPH website for complete details on immunization clinics and upcoming vaccine events.
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Help Keep Leaves Out of Our Gutters this Fall!
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Fall is here! As we enjoy the nice weather and falling leaves, please make sure to do your part and take care of our community. The Department of Streets and Sanitation advises residents to remove leaves that fall into the street of your residence, reuse them, or bag them and call 311 for a yard waste pickup. Please do not sweep the leaves as it is a violation of City Ordinance and can clog the sewer systems. Thank you for looking out for our community!
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Check for Missing Property Tax Exemptions
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Property tax exemptions are savings that can lower your property tax bill. Check the bottom left-hand corner of your Second Installment Property Tax Bill for exemption deductions. Most homeowners are eligible for the Homeowner Exemption, and most senior homeowners over the age of 65 are eligible for the Senior Exemption. You can learn about exemptions on the Assessor’s website.
If you are missing an exemption that you believe you are eligible for, apply for a Certificate of Error to correct your property tax bill. Submit your online application immediately to have your missing exemptions applied.
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Learn More about Becoming a District Councilor
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Are you interested in becoming an elected District Councilor? If so, join an info session to learn how to represent your neighbors on policing and public safety issues.
The information sessions run every other Wednesday and select Saturdays through October 21st. Register for a session below:
Wednesdays at 12:30 pm: bit.ly/2027DCElectionsLunch
Wednesdays at 6:00 pm: bit.ly/2027DCElectionsDinner
Select Saturdays at 11:00 am: bit.ly2027DCElectionsSaturday
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Federal Changes to Medicaid Begin January 2027
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Cook County Health estimates that nearly three out of every ten patients could be uninsured due to federal government cuts to healthcare that will go into effect in January 2027. This is more than double the number of patients from just a few years ago. Cuts to our healthcare system affect everyone. A strong healthcare system keeps our communities healthy and helps stop the spread of communicable diseases.
To respond to healthcare cuts, Cook County is partnering with healthcare providers and helping patients navigate changes in coverage. The State of Illinois also recently joined a 26-state coalition suit to challenge the changes to Medicaid work requirements.
If you or someone you know could be affected by federal changes, visit GetMedicaidFacts.com to learn about your options.
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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!
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