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The 2nd Ward Newsletter for February 23, 2026
In This Edition:
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2nd Ward Website
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2nd Ward Twitter
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2nd Ward YouTube
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Mayor Johnson Vetoes Ban On Intoxicating Hemp Products
I was disappointed to see Mayor Johnson veto an ordinance that would ban some intoxicating hemp products from sale in Chicago last week. The ordinance, drafted by Alderman Quinn, was an opportunity to protect Chicagoans from a number of unregulated products that have undercut a legal, properly-regulated market. Untested synthetic substances, sometimes marketed to kids, pose a real threat to our communities, and I will continue to oppose the current market structure under which they are sold.
Click here to view my comments at City Council (beginning at 2:44:52).
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Foundry Park Receives Zoning Approval Despite Infrastructure Concerns
Last month, I shared my concerns with readers of this newsletter about the lack of new infrastructure included in the new plan for the former Lincoln Yards North site, now known as Foundry Park. At the time, it had just been approved by the Chicago Plan Commission, a recommending body that is the first step toward a zoning change for larger developments. This past week, the proposal also passed the City Council Committee on Zoning and the full City Council. From a zoning standpoint, the project is now fully approved and will proceed to permitting with the goal of breaking ground later this year.
The site is now under the control of local developer JDL, and the new planned development allows for up to 3,700 new housing units, 420,000 square feet of retail space, and 350,000 square feet of office space on the site bounded roughly by Dickens Avenue, Kingsbury Street, the Chicago River, and Elston Avenue.
In 2019, when the site fell within the 2nd Ward, I secured important promises for infrastructure improvements that are not being kept under this plan. The plan does not require any of the following:
- A new vehicle bridge or bridges over the river
- Reconfiguration of the troublesome Armitage/Elston/Ashland intersection
- The extension of Kingsbury Street south of Cortland
- The improvement or replacement of the Clybourn Metra station
In fact, the Johnson Administration swept $34 million from the Cortland and Chicago River Tax Increment Financing District, which was established in 2019 specifically to pay for these much-needed infrastructure improvements.
While the Foundry Park proposal is less dense than what was approved in 2019 and arguably a better plan otherwise, the lack of infrastructure commitments from the city should be alarming to surrounding neighborhoods already struggling with congestion. This past week, I again voiced these concerns on the record, this time at Committee on Zoning and at the meeting of the full City Council. I also voted no in both forums.
Please click here to access a recording of my comments at Committee on Zoning (beginning at 2:29:47).
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Remembering Commander Paul Bauer
On Friday, February 13, I was honored to join the memorial ceremony at the 18th District station to mark the 8th anniversary of the death of Chicago Police Commander Paul R. Bauer, a dedicated leader who served our city for over 31 years and led the 18th (Near North) District with integrity and courage.
Commander Bauer was tragically killed in the line of duty on February 13, 2018, after bravely confronting an armed suspect near the James R. Thompson Center while attempting to protect others. His life of service and his commitment to the safety of our community exemplified the highest values of the Chicago Police Department and continue to inspire all who knew him. We remembered his devotion to his family—his wife Erin and daughter Grace—as well as the deep impact he had on colleagues and neighbors across the district.
Commander Bauer’s sacrifice will never be forgotten, and we remain grateful for his legacy of leadership and public service.
Children with members of the Chicago Police Mounted Unit are pictured during the ceremony. Paul Bauer was the commanding officer of the CPD Mounted Unit before becoming Commander of the 18th District. He frequently reflected fondly on his time leading the elite unit, and the members of the unit have always stood watch over his tributes as a sign of respect for him since his death.
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The Yoga Seed Opens in Lincoln Park
The 2nd Ward is happy to give an official welcome to the Lincoln Park neighborhood and the Clybourn Corridor to The Yoga Seed, located at 2229 N Clybourn Ave. The Yoga Seed offers a variety of workshops, including book clubs, retreats, and traditional classes. Congratulations to Christina for making The Yoga Seed happen!
Click here for more information.
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Honoring Rev. Jesse Jackson
 I join many across Chicago in recognizing the life and legacy of Rev. Jesse Jackson. A longtime civil rights leader and advocate for economic justice, Rev. Jackson played a significant role in shaping public life in our city and across the country. His decades of service and leadership leave a lasting mark on Chicago and the broader movement for equal opportunity. I extend my warmest condolences to his family.
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SOAR Gourmet Market: Opens this Thursday
 We are delighted to welcome another community market from the Streeterville Organization of Active Residents (SOAR) to the 2nd Ward. The new SOAR Gourmet Market will be operating every Thursday from February 26 through April 30, 2026, from 8:00 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. at 680 N Lake Shore Drive (on the lobby level along the Erie Street).
This seasonal market brings together 10 local vendors offering fresh coffee, beautiful flowers, specialty foods, and hot lunch options — a perfect midweek stop whether you are heading to work, taking a stroll through the neighborhood, or simply looking to brighten a winter day.
Just like the outdoor market at MCA Plaza, our mobile ward office will be joining each week, making it easy to connect with our team, share feedback, or get help with city services while you shop. It has always a pleasure to see more opportunities for neighbors to gather, support local businesses, and enjoy the best our community has to offer.
We hope to see you at the SOAR Gourmet Market starting on Thursday!
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Theodore "Ted" Wrobleski Honored By City Council Resolution
Last week at the City Council meeting, I was pleased to honor Theodore "Ted" Wrobleski with a resolution commemorating his 45 years of community service with the Sheffield Neighborhood Association. Ted has done so much for Sheffield Neighbors, and I am grateful for his commitment to the neighborhood. Congratulations, Ted!
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Weekly Neighborhood Organization Highlight: Gold Coast Neighbors Association
 The Gold Coast Neighbors Association (GCNA) has been an integral part of the Gold Coast neighborhood for more than 40 years, celebrating the character of one of Chicago's most vibrant neighborhoods. Their partnership with my office, along with other community members, has enhanced public safety, development, infrastructure, and green spaces in the 2nd Ward.
Their annual "Evening on Astor" fundraiser, dubbed "Chicago's most elegant block party," is a spectacle that I always look forward to attending. They also host events focused on beautification and service, local history, and a number of social outings.
If you are a resident of the Gold Coast, I would encourage you to learn more about the Gold Coast Neighbors Association by clicking here.
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2nd Ward Shred Event: Sunday, March 8
The 2nd Ward Spring Shred Event will take place on Sunday, March 8, from 9:00 am to 12:00 pm at the My Parking Gold Coast Lot, located at 1258 N State Pkwy. Please bring your documents, old electronics, and pharmaceuticals to this very popular shred event to ensure they are properly discarded.
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18th Police District Council Meeting: TOMORROW, Tuesday, February 24
The 18th Police District Councilmembers will hold their monthly meeting TOMORROW, Tuesday, February 24, at 6:00 pm.
Commander Bielfeldt from the 18th District, or a representative, will provide crime and safety updates. Chair Brad Kessler will present a 911 call analysis for the 18th District.
Please RSVP for in-person attendance here. If you wish to participate remotely, click here.
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18th District Collecting Easter Egg Hunt Supplies: Deadline April 1
The 18th Police District is collecting candy-filled plastic Easter eggs, candy, and baskets for the Near North Easter Egg Hunt. Please drop off your donations at the 18th District, located at 1160 N Larrabee Ave, in the lobby.
If you have any questions, contact the 18th District CAPS Office at 312-742-5778.
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2026 Chicago Police CAPS Meeting Schedule
The Chicago Alternative Policing Strategy (CAPS) Beat community meetings are a key part of the Chicago Police Department's strategy of partnerships and problem-solving. These meetings are held in person with the option for remote participation 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. You may also call 312-742-5778 or email CAPS.018District@chicagopolice.org for more information about the 18th District CAPS office.
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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. Click here to learn more about CompStat.
Please see the 18th District CompStat report below:
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Recent Carjacking Arrests:
- 21 February 26 - Offenders Charged with Multiple Felony Counts of Murder, Aggravated Vehicular Hijacking, Aggravated Discharge of a Firearm
Community Alerts:
- 21 February 26 - 1st District - Thefts in River North
- 18 February 26 - Burglaries of Motor Vehicles
Additional High-Profile Arrests:
- 22 February 26 - Offender Charged with Aggravated Battery Discharge of a Firearm
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March 17 Primary Election Information
The 2026 General Primary Election is March 17, 2026. This election determines party nominees for federal, state, county, and local offices on the ballot in Chicago. The Board provides official forms and tools for registering to vote, updating your registration, and applying for vote by mail. Information on Vote By Mail, Early Voting, the Permanent Vote By Mail Roster, and other dates and services can be found below.
Only 1 in 5 Chicagoans registered to vote cast a ballot in the last midterm election in 2022 (click here to read more about the low turnout). Please vote to make your voice heard; we get the government we elect.
Vote By Mail
Register to Vote By Mail by clicking here.
You can also download the Permanent Vote By Mail Roster application form by clicking here.
NOTE: The Board will begin mailing ballots to those on the Permanent Vote By Mail Roster and vote by mail applicants in early February 2026. Applications to receive a mail ballot must be received by the Board no later than March 12, 2026. Mail ballots must be postmarked by March 17, 2026, to count.*
Early Voting Information (Begins in all 50 Wards on March 2, 2026)
You may find a list of early voting dates and locations by clicking here.
March 2 through March 17 hours of operation:
Weekdays: 9:00 am to 6:00 pm
Saturday: 9:00 am to 5:00 pm
Sunday: 10:00 am to 4:00 pm
Election Day (March 17): 6:00 am to 7:00 pm
Early Vote sites that are in or near the 2nd Ward:
- Near North Library at 310 W Division St
- Lincoln Park Library at 1150 W Fullerton Ave
Voter Registration and Address Changes
To register to vote or update your address on your voter registration record, use the Illinois Voter Registration Application* available from the Board’s site by clicking here.
*Last Day to register using the online application is March 1, 2026. It reopens on March 19, 2026
The official downloadable form for registration or address updates is here.
Grace Period and Same-Day Registration
Illinois law allows voters to register or update their registrations and vote during the grace period at early voting sites and at the Board office through Election Day if they missed the standard registration deadline. Check the official Chicago Board of Elections site for exact grace period details and locations by clicking here.
Election Day
The Primary Election is scheduled for March 17, 2026. Polls are open from 6 a.m. to 7 p.m. local time at your assigned precinct polling place. You may vote in person on Election Day if you have not voted early or by mail. For polling location lookup, click here.
Polling Place Lookup
Find your polling place and voter information by clicking here.
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New Vote By Mail Information
On December 24, 2025, USPS changed its definition of a "timely postmark" to mean the date a piece of mail is processed, not that it is received. Mail-in voters should keep in mind that:
- A ballot or any other mailpiece may be taken into any post office to receive a free manual postmark
- Completed mail-in ballots may also be taken to any early voting location to be deposited in secure collection boxes
Click here to learn more.
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7th U.S. Congressional District Democratic Candidate Forum With SOAR and RNRA: Wednesday, February 25
 The River North Residents Association (RNRA) and Streeterville Organization of Active Residents (SOAR) are hosting a forum for candidates running in the Democratic Primary for Illinois' 7th Congressional District at 6:00 pm on Wednesday, February 25. The event will take place at Harry Caray's 7th Inning Stretch, located at 835 N Michigan Ave.
Attendees are invited to send questions for candidates ahead of time to cdist7candidateforum@rnrachicago.org.
Click here to register (required for attendance).
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Cook County Board President Democratic Candidate Forum: Thursday, March 5
The River North Residents Association (RNRA) and Streeterville Organization of Active Residents (SOAR) are hosting a forum for candidates running in the Democratic Primary for Cook County Board President. The Event will take place on Thursday, March 5, at 5:30 pm, located at Harry Caray's 7th Inning Stretch (835 N Michigan Ave).
Attendees are invited to send questions for candidates ahead of time to ccbpcandidateforum@rnrachicago.org by Tuesday, March 3, at 9:00 am.
Click here to register.
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Sueños and Lollapalooza Community Engagement Meeting: Tuesday, March 3
The producers of Sueños and Lollapalooza are hosting a virtual community engagement meeting on Tuesday, March 3, from 6:00 pm to 7:00 pm. The meeting will cover event logistics and answer questions, and will be led by organizers alongside a representative from the Park District.
Click here for more information.
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Winter Baby and Toddler Story Time at Near North Library: Thursday, February 26
The Near North Library is hosting Winter Baby and Toddler Story Time this Thursday, February 26, from 10:30 am to 11:00 am. Recommended for children 12 to 36 months old, this is a great opportunity for all to experience wonderful interactive storytelling, along with songs, movement activities, and resources regarding early literacy skill development.
Click here to register. February is a busy month at Near North! Click here to view more of their great upcoming events.
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Jewels of Spring at the Lincoln Park Conservancy: Wednesday, February 25
 The 2026 spring flower show at the Lincoln Park Conservatory, “Jewels of Spring,” highlights the amazing flowers of the Tower of Jewels, also known as Echium or Pride of Madeira.
Click here for more information. Admission is free, but a reservation is required.
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27th Chicago Irish Film Festival: Begins February 26
 The 27th annual Chicago Irish Film Festival begins this week, kicking off with an opening night at AMC New City (1500 N Clybourn) this Thursday, February 26, at 5:30 pm. This world-class event brings wonderful Irish films to the big screen in Chicago each year. The festival will continue on at AMC New City until Sunday, March 1, with streaming options for other Irish films continuing through Sunday, March 8.
Click here for more information.
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Last Chance: Old Town Progressive Dinner Wednesdays End This Week
Progressive Dinner Wednesdays conclude this week in Old Town. Enjoy a variety of delicious menu items from some of your favorite restaurants, all priced at $5 per dish from 5:00 pm - 8:00 pm every Wednesday until February 25.
Participating restaurants include Benchmark, Cal’s Corner, Declan's Irish Pub, Fireplace Inn, Glunz Tavern, Happy Camper, Kamehachi, Moon Star Kitchen & Bar, Old Town Pub, Orso’s, Rabbit Hole, The VIG, Woodie’s Flat, and Winnie's.
Click here for more information.
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