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45th Ward News and Community Updates

Email from City of Chicago-James Gardiner

MESSAGE FROM ALDERMAN JIM GARDINER

Our office is once again partnering with State Treasurer Michael Frerichs to bring valuable services directly to residents of the 45th Ward. Through this partnership, more than $50,000 in unclaimed funds has already been recovered for members of our community, and appointments are required to participate — please call

(773) 853-0799 or email ward45@cityofchicago.org to schedule your time.


Our next Unclaimed Property event will take place on March 11th from

12:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m.


Let us help you find your unclaimed cash!

Proudly Serving,

Alderman Jim Gardiner

TOP STORIES

Rev. Jesse Jackson's children speak on death of civil rights icon; services set for next week


FULL STORY HERE

Bears to Indiana? Team calls bill 'most meaningful step' as new site gains traction


FULL STORY HERE

Governor JB Pritzker pushing new proposal for cellphone ban in Illinois schools


FULL STORY HERE

FDA updates peanut butter recall in 40 states, including Illinois


DETAILS HERE

A special thank you to Marino Chrysler Jeep Dodge, Clarendale Six Corners,

City News Café, and Oak Street Health for partnering with our office to honor

45th Ward seniors at our Annual Valentine’s Breakfast.


Your generosity and continued support helped make the morning truly memorable. We are proud to celebrate the residents who have given so much to our community and are grateful to work alongside local partners who share that commitment.

CLICK HERE TO SEE HIGHLIGHTS FROM OUR BREAKFAST

On February 14, 1980, Chicago experienced its first and only Firefighters strike.

Mayor Jane Byrne's broken promises prompted Firefighters citywide to gather outside firehouses, lighting fires in garbage barrels for warmth, earning them the symbolic name "Brotherhood of the Barrel" representing

Chicago Fire Department Firefighters Union - Local 2 members' strength and camaraderie.


United, Firefighters demanded fair wages, reliable equipment, and nationwide-standard benefits for 23 days.


The 45th Ward acknowledges the bravery of Firefighters and Paramedics who risk their lives for residents' safety.


The benefits that many Firefighters and Paramedics experience today are a direct result of union sisters and brothers who stood united to demand what is rightfully owed.

Cook County clerk urges early mail-in voting amid USPS postmark change before March 17 primary


CLICK HERE FOR STORY

Lent is a 40-day season of prayer, fasting, and almsgiving. It begins on

Ash Wednesday and ends at sundown on Holy Thursday, preparing Christians for the celebration of Easter.

May this Ramadan bring you peace, blessings, forgiveness, and a renewed sense of gratitude. Wishing you a meaningful month and a joyful Eid al-Fitr.

Ramadan Mubarak 

BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT

S&J Nails is a top-notch nail salon and spa right here in the Edgebrook community, offering a welcoming, luxury environment where clients can relax and enjoy professional nail care. They provide a full range of services, including manicures, pedicures, and nail enhancements, all tailored to each guest’s personal style and preferences. Their experienced technicians stay up to date on the latest beauty and nail trends and are known for their careful, detailed work and personalized service. Every visit to S&J Nails is designed to be comfortable, thorough, and memorable.


Why not take the time to visit S&J Nails a perfect spot to treat yourself right here in our community? You deserve it.

5360 W. Devon Ave.

773-763-2684

sandjnailsillinois.com

If you’re looking to live a healthier, more active life, you don’t have to do it alone. True health is about more than just being pain-free, it’s about having the energy and mobility to fully enjoy your day-to-day life. Edgebrook Chiropractic Health Center and Dr. Giles can help you achieve that.


Edgebrook Chiropractic takes a whole-body approach to care, offering chiropractic services, massage therapy, acupuncture, physical therapy, myofascial release, and high-intensity laser therapy. Their team is focused on helping patients restore function, improve mobility, and maintain long-term wellness.


If you’re looking to feel better and move better, reach out to Dr. Giles and his team.


edgebrookchc.com

6139 W. Touhy Ave.

(773) 631-1110

Alderman Jim Gardiner was proud to join the Jefferson Park Chamber of Commerce and the 16th District Chicago Police Department to celebrate the grand opening of Dulce Canela Bakery, 4765 N. Milwaukee Ave.


Owners Irma Flores and Jose Luis Ortiz welcomed guests with delicious tacos and a variety of fresh bakery samples. Dulce Canela Bakery will be open seven days a week and features a wonderful selection of Mexican and Guatemalan breads, pastries, and other specialty items.


We are excited to welcome this new small business to Jefferson Park and encourage residents to stop in and show their support!

Alderman Gardiner stopped by Delightful Pastries, located at 5927 W. Lawrence Ave., this week and sat down with owner Dobra to talk about what makes this local favorite so special to our community.


CLICK HERE TO WATCH THE INTERVIEW

CHICAGO POLITICS

Chicago City Council fails to override Mayor Johnson's veto of ban on hemp product sales


FULL STORY HERE

Mayor Brandon Johnson and budget critics trade blame over City Hall janitor layoffs


DETAILS HERE

THRIVING IN WARD 45

Thank you to all of the residents who graciously donated to

Chicago Canine Rescue, a no-kill shelter located at 5272 N. Elston Ave. Your generosity helps provide care, comfort, and second chances to so many deserving animals in our community.


It’s always a great time to adopt, not shop when searching for your next best friend.


Reminder: Volunteer opportunities are also available for those looking to get involved and make a difference.

The 45th Ward proudly recognizes the American Legion Billy Caldwell Post 806, comprised of U.S. Military veterans who have honorably served our nation since December 7, 1941.


We gathered at the Chicago Police Department 16th District to acknowledge and thank our dedicated law enforcement officers for their continued commitment to keeping our community safe.



We are grateful for the service and sacrifice of both our veterans and our police officers who work every day to protect and strengthen the 45th Ward.

Alderman Gardiner provides a video update on the ongoing development at

Six Corners.


Click here to watch the Six Corners construction update

CDOT is proposing a new network of bikeways in the Portage Park Community Area. Our goal is to provide safe, family-friendly options for people to reach the neighborhood destinations most meaningful to their lives, including schools, parks, and local businesses, through a connected network of bike routes within Portage Park. The proposal includes a network of neighborhood greenways on quieter residential streets as well as striped or dashed bike lanes on busier corridors.


DETAILS HERE

Alderman Gardiner offers quick tips to help Streets & Sanitation during snow and frigid weather.


CLICK HERE TO WATCH REEL

CLICK HERE FOR WEBSITE

Curious about what's happening in the community?

Check out ChiStreetWork, the City of Chicago’s interactive map portal that provides up-to-date information on infrastructure projects and permits. It compiles data from city agencies and private utilities.

Just enter an address or intersection into the search bar to see a clickable map with detailed information about active projects in that area. From sewer work to resurfacing, you’ll get a clear picture of what’s going on and when.



CLICK HERE FOR ACCESS

CONTACT INFORMATION

Visit our 45th Ward Office

5460 N. Milwaukee Ave, Chicago, IL 60630

Tel: 773-853-0799

Office Hours: Mon/Tue/Wed/Fri.-8:30-4:30PM,

Thurs. 9:30-4:30PM Email: ward45@cityofchicago.org

Click the link-www.aldermangardiner.com

Thank you for being part of the 45th Ward community. We are grateful for the opportunity to serve you and remain dedicated to providing exceptional constituent services.

VETS IN 45

The Cook County Veterans Assistance Commission visits our office each month to assist veterans in our community. If you or someone you know is a veteran in need of support or has questions, please feel free to stop in.

Each week, we will highlight a different service offered by the Cook County Veterans Assistance Commission.

MATURING RESIDENTS IN THE 45TH WARD

The City of Chicago Department of Family and Support Services Seniors Division (DFSS Senior Services) —which serves as the Area Agency on Aging for Chicago— is asking seniors (60 years of age or better) and their caregivers to identify programs and areas of need in preparation for the FY2027 Area Plan on Aging.


Please fill out the following online survey on or before 2/20/26: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/NTMR63W.


The City of Chicago and its over 550,000 seniors thank you for your service!

Chicago Seniors Connected


The City of Chicago’s Department of Family and Support Services (DFSS) Senior Services Division offers a wide range of programs and supports for residents age 60 and better, helping older adults stay healthy, active, and engaged.


The newest edition of the Chicago Seniors Connected program brochure is now available and includes virtual and in-person activities, as well as upcoming special events and meal opportunities taking place across the city.


👉 View the Chicago Seniors Connected program brochure

WARD 45 RESOURCES

Every high school age student in Chicago (public or private) interested in the possibility of becoming a first responder should apply for this excellent program.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION HERE

The Express Permit Program is a web-based interface for homeowners, businesses, and other building owners/tenants (and the contractors that work with them) to obtain building permits needed to repair or replace existing features of a building or undertake specific small improvement projects, such as adding residential solar panels. The web interface allows permit applicants to check application status, pay fees, and view inspection results online 24/7.

CLICK HERE TO GET STARTED

The Department of Family and Support Services provides programs and support to older adults aged 60 and better. DFSS offers a range of programs and services throughout the year to keep older adults healthy, active, and engaged. 

Click here for additional information 


SMALL BUSINESS RESOURCE CENTER

The Department of Business Affairs and Consumer Protection (BACP) offers free business education webinars every Wednesday afternoon and Friday morning. Topics include business licensing, operations, financial resources, marketing, and more. Programs are free and open to the public and taught by industry professionals, not-for-profit agencies, and government agencies.


CLICK HERE TO VIEW AND REGISTER FOR UPCOMING BACP WEBINARS

The Chicago Department of Business Affairs & Consumer Protection (BACP) Entrepreneur Certificate Program is a free and optional program available to attendees of the free BACP business education webinar series. The program is designed to give entrepreneurs the essential information they need to start and grow a business in Chicago. The program’s curriculum covers essentials in business planning, financing, marketing, legal topics, technology, and more. Click here for additional information

Local Chambers of Commerce



Our neighborhood Chambers of Commerce support local businesses through advocacy, networking, marketing, and community events. Businesses of all sizes are encouraged to connect and get involved.

Gladstone Park Chamber Of Commerce 6348 N. Milwaukee (773) 756-6206

Click here for additional information

Edgebrook Sauganash Chamber of Commerce P.O. Box 46311 (773) 545-9300

Click here for additional information

Jefferson Park Chamber of Commerce 5214 W. Lawrence, Ste.5 (773) 736-6697

Click here for additional information

Polish American Chamber of Commerce 5214 W. Lawrence, Ste.1 (773) 205-1998 

Click here for additional information

Six Corners Chamber of Commerce 4054 N Milwaukee Ave (773) 685-4955 

Click here for additional information

Portage Park Chamber of Commerce 4946 W. Irving Park Rd. (773) 777-2020

Click here for additional information

WARD 45 SAFETY NEWS

Beat Meetings are a great opportunity to meet your local officers, learn about public safety in your area, and share concerns. We encourage residents to attend and stay involved.

2026 BEAT MEETING SCHEDULE

Beat 1621

Edgebrook Library

5331 W. Devon

March 4th

Beat 1622

Dunham Park

4638 N. Melvina

March 11th

Beat 1623

16th District Police Station

5151 N. Milwaukee

February 27th

Beat 1731

Kilbourn Park

3501 N. Kilbourn

March 10th

Beat 1624

Portage Park

4100 N. Long

February 25th

CLICK HERE TO FIND YOUR BEAT

COMMUNITY SCHOOLS


Congratulations to the St. Elizabeth of the Trinity

8th-grade girls volleyball team on being named the

2026 IC Volleyball Tournament Champions!


The 45th Ward is proud of your hard work, sportsmanship, and the way you represented your school and community.



Go Phoenix's!

ELEMENTARY SCHOOLS

Beaubien Elementary School

5025 N. Laramie Ave., (773) 534-3500

Click here for additional information


   Edgebrook Elementary School      

6525 N. Hiawatha Ave., (773) 534-1194

Click here for additional information


Edgebrook Early Learning Branch

6407 N. Minnehaha Ave., (773) 534-0720

Click here for additional information


Farnsworth Elementary School

5414 N. Linder Ave., (773) 534-3535

Click here for additional information


Hitch Elementary School

5625 N. McVicker Ave.,  (773) 534-1189

Click here for additional information


William J. Onahan School

6634 W. Raven St., (773) 534-1180

Click here for additional information


Prussing Elementary School

4650 N. Menard Ave., (773) 534-3460

Click here for additional information


Catalpa Early Childhood Center

5252 N. Long Ave., (773) 534-8380

Click here for additional information


St. Constance School

5841 W. Strong St., (773)-283-2311  

Click here for additional information


St. Elizabeth of the Trinity School

6040 W. Ardmore Ave., (773)-763-7080

Click here for additional information


St. John's Lutheran School

4939 W. Montrose Ave., (773) 736-1196

Click here for additional information


St. Roberts Bellarmine School

6036 W. Eastwood Ave., (773) 725-5133

Click here for additional information


St. Mary of the Woods

6955 N. Hiawatha Ave., (773)-763-4968

Click here for additional information


Wildwood Elementary School

    6950 N. Hiawatha Ave. (773) 534-1188

Click here for additional information

MIDDLE AND HIGH SCHOOLS

Disney II Magnet School (7th-12th)

 3900 N Lawndale Ave., (773) 534-5010

Click here for additional information




Horizon Science Academy Belmont (7th-10th)

4434 N. Laramie Ave., (708) 667-0941

Click here for more information



Vaughn Occupational High School

4355 N. Linder (773)-534-3600

Click here for additional information

EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES 

CLICK HERE FOR MORE INFORMATION

Police Officer - Lateral Transfer Sworn Police Officers Only - University Police


CLICK HERE FOR ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

CLICK HERE FOR DETAILS

LOCAL FOOD PANTRIES

Supporting Our Neighbors in Need

New Hope Community Food Pantry

Address: 6125 W Foster

Phone:773-775-1215

Hours:Tuesday:

9:30- 11:30 AM


Joined Hands Food Pantry / Our Lady of Victory

Address: 5212 W Agatite

Phone: (312)972-1164 

Hours: Wednesday:

5:00 - 7:00 PM

jhfoodpantry@gmail.com

Harvest Christian Center Chicago Food Pantry

Address: 4020 N. Tripp Ave.

Phone:  773-685-4222

office@hccChicago.org

Hours:  Last Friday of the month:

1:30 -2:30 PM

Volunteer Opportunities

If you or someone you know is interested in volunteering as a Gardiner Angel in the Ward office providing clerical assistance, research, communications assistance, etc. or would like to provide on the ground help cleaning up the ward, please reach out to us at ward45@cityofchicago.org


If you would like a "SLOW DOWN" or "CLEAN UP AFTER YOUR DOG" sign, please come in our office at 5460 N. Milwaukee.