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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,
City Council will meet on Wednesday, June 17 at 10am. This month, we are being asked to approve the sale of our parking meters to a new owner. In 2008 Mayor Daley and the City Council approved a 75-year sale of our meters to an investment conglomerate led by Morgan Stanley for $1.15 billion. The deal was a shocking move that quickly became known as one of the worst municipal financial decisions in the country.
Now, the group that owns the rights to our meters, known as Chicago Parking Meters LLC (CPM) has been sold and City Council has the authority to approve or deny the ownership transfer of the meters. It appears that Mayor Johnson and his team have been in discussions with CPM and ownership since at least March of this year, but City Council has been kept in the dark.
This Monday, June 15 I will attend the Committee on Finance Committee meeting which is holding a Subject Matter Hearing on the proposed sale. Here is where you can find the ordinance introduced by the Mayor as well as the Economic Disclosure Statement from CPM. You can join us in Committee on Monday at 11am in Council Chambers or tune in live via Clerk Valencia's website.
Chicago should own our meters. Is this an opportunity to buy back our meters? Is it an opportunity renegotiate terms in our contract to better position access to the public way for our constituents? Who is this new owner and what are their ties to Federal agencies and foreign governments? How do they plan to use user data, and what are their plans for rate increases and charges? These are some of the questions I'm taking to committee. I'll report back before City Council on Wednesday.
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
- 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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On June 5, Riley O'Neil passed away. He was killed in a traffic accident while cycling in the Bridgeport neighborhood. Our hearts go out to Riley's family here in Rogers Park and to the community he served throughout our great city. Riley worked as a Complete Streets Planner for the Chicago Department of Transportation as was a dedicated public servant. Riley was passionate about making streets safer for pedestrians and cyclists. His legacy helped to prevent traffic accidents like the one that took his life. My sincerest condolences go out to Riley's family and community for this terrible loss.
Riley's visitation and celebration of life will be on Saturday, June 20 and information can be found here.
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Celebrations & Appreciations
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Juneteenth, or Freedom Day, is a significant date in American history and the African-American experience. Juneteenth commemorates the end of slavery in the United States, when on June 19th, 1865, the last major general ordered the final enforcement of the Emancipation Proclamation in Texas, even though the Emancipation Proclamation went into effect over 2 years prior. Juneteenth 2026 is on Friday, June 19th. We wish all who celebrate a happy Juneteenth!
Please be advised that our office will be closed in recognition of the Juneteenth holiday on Friday, June 19th. We will reopen on Monday, June 22nd. During these hours, you can reach our office via email at office@49thward.org or by phone at 773-338-5796, and we will respond once we reopen.
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Bird-Friendly Design Toolkit Available!
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This week, Chair Hadden's Chicago Bird-Friendly Design Working Group published its "Make Your Building Bird Friendly Chicago" toolkit! Chicago sits on the Mississippi Flyway, one of North America's busiest migration routes, with over 250 bird species migrating through the city annually. Birds use the lakefront, ponds, parks, street trees, and all other vegetation as resting and feeding stops during migration. Unfortunately, there are over 7,000 documented bird collisions each year at downtown Chicago buildings. Chicago residents can download the toolkit here and learn more about the many ways to reduce bird collisions. Congratulations to the working group on all their hard work and the success of the toolkit!
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In observance of Juneteenth, there will be no refuse collection on Friday, June 19, 2026. All city-collected refuse will be serviced on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday. Residents should ensure all black refuse carts are accessible throughout the week of collection, not solely on their regular day of collection.
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KNOW YOUR RIGHTS RESOURCES
As Operation Midway Blitz continues and ICE agents have been active around the City, we want to remind neighbors of our Fighting Against Fascist Occupation resources. Know your rights, stay safe, and stay informed. Find our guide here. |
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North Side Queer Pride Coming June 27-28
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North Side Queer Pride (NSQP) is a coalition of community members hosting a radically welcoming and culturally significant Pride celebration weekend. Guided by the results of a comprehensive community survey, NSQP includes something for everyone, with diverse and inclusive events throughout the Rogers Park community during Pride Weekend, June 27 - 28, 2026.
NSQP will feature a wide range of events throughout Rogers Park, including live music, drag and performance art, dance parties, film screenings, educational programming, immersive art tents, community discussions, family-friendly activities, sober spaces, and local business participation. Built “for the community and by the community,” NSQP aims to celebrate the creativity, resilience, diversity, and radical spirit that have long defined Rogers Park and Chicago’s North Side queer communities. Northside QueerPride is coordinated by the Glenwood Avenue Arts District (501c3).
The full schedule of events is available HERE.
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June is nationally recognized as LGBTQ+ Pride Month! The month of June holds importance in LGBTQ+ history & liberation and was chosen to represent Pride as it commemorates the anniversary of the 1969 Stonewall Uprising in Manhattan. Alderwoman Hadden is the first Black, queer woman elected to City Council, and Chicago pride holds a very special place in her & her staffers' hearts.
We wish everyone who celebrates a very happy Pride. It's time to be loud and be proud! For more information on Pride events in the City this month, check out this website published by Choose Chicago. We'll also be sharing information on Pride events throughout the month and are looking forward to North Side Queer Pride, a radically welcoming and culturally significant Pride celebration weekend from June 26 through 28!
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Beaches opened for the season on Monday! The season runs through Labor Day weekend. Lakefront beaches will be open for swimming daily, from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. For your safety, lifeguards will be on duty along the lakefront.
Daily swim status updates are available by checking the Chicago Park District website or by calling the beach hotline at 312-74-BEACH.
Make sure to review water safety tips from the Chicago Park District's website and the Greater Lakes Surf Rescue Project online.
Please remember that Howard Street Beach is closed indefinitely and is not meant to be accessed by beachgoers, hence the rocks and lack of a safe access path to the beach. The Army Corps of Engineers installed the rocks in 2019 to address lakefront erosion and flooding issues experienced by local homeowners. You can read more here on the Park District website. The beach is supposed to be off-limits, swimming is prohibited, and no lifeguards are present. Instead, residents should use the nearby Jarvis/Marion Mahony Griffin Beach.
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Glenwood Sunday Market Is Back!
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The Glenwood Sunday Market (6962 N Glenwood) is back for the season! The market will operate every Sunday, 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m., until October 25 (except for June 28 and August 16). We love this fantastic annual tradition and are excited to celebrate its 17th year in the Rogers Park community!
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2026 Glenwood Ave Arts Fest Poster Design Contest
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Submit your entry now for the 2026 Glenwood Ave Arts Fest poster design contest! This image will be used to showcase this year’s festival on bulletin boards and in public spaces, as well as digitally. It should be easy to read, stylish, and radically welcoming to everyone in our community. Submit your entry by Wednesday, July 1, 2026, to manager@glenwoodave.org. Click here for more information.
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Neighbors, as you may be aware, recent federal changes to the Supplemental Food and Nutrition Program (SNAP) mean that up to 250,000 neighbors in Illinois are at risk of losing their SNAP benefits due to new work requirements and other eligibility changes. These changes went into effect on May 1.
If you or someone you know relies on SNAP, take action to protect your benefits today.
- Click here to see if you are meeting the new SNAP work requirements.
- If you qualify for an exemption from the new work requirements, you can apply for this exemption here.
- If you are subject to the SNAP Work Requirements, you must do one or a combination of the following activities for an average of 20 hours per week (total of 80 hours per month):
- Work (paid or unpaid)
- Volunteer to take part and comply with an approved qualifying work program that offers activities such as basic education, vocational training, and work-based learning.
- Do self-initiated community service or volunteering with a community-based organization (see more information below)
- Any combination of the above.
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Glenwood Ave Arts Fest Artist Applications Open
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Artist applications are now being accepted for the 25th Annual Glenwood Avenue Arts Fest! The Glenwood Avenue Arts Fest is Rogers Park’s annual outdoor celebration of arts and community, run by a volunteer planning committee to showcase our neighborhood’s arts, talents, and businesses. Interested in applying? Click here: https://gaaf2026.artcall.org/
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Neighbors, please be aware that, as part of their new Nursing and Science Center construction at 1123 W Loyola Ave, Loyola University is closing W. Loyola Ave from N Sheridan to the alley between the new Sciences Center and 1120 W Loyola Ave until mid-August. There will be a cement truck parked along their construction site to create the ground floor of the Sciences Center. Vehicular traffic will be prohibited from 7:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., and crews will open up the street when not operating. Pedestrian traffic on the south sidewalk will remain accessible at all times.
If you have any matters you wish to discuss with me or my office, please feel free to contact me at office@49thward.org or 773-338-5796.
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Joyce Kilmer Triangle Monument Improvements
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While not completed in time for Memorial Day, we're excited that construction improvements for the Joyce Kilmer Triangle Monument began. Joyce Kilmer was a celebrated American Poet best known for his poem, "Trees." He also enlisted and served in the New York National Guard during World War I and was deployed to France in 1917 with the 69th Infantry Regiment. He was killed in battle at the Second Battle of the Marne in 1918 at the age of 31. Many schools and parks across the country are named in his honor, including our very own Kilmer Elementary School.
The monument was installed in 1953 and donated by the American Legion Post 780. It is located in a triangle at the intersection of Birchwood, Ashland, and Rogers. Last year, CDOT completed a necessary intersection redesign for pedestrian and vehicular safety. Care and future plans for the monument, including providing a more prominent placement for it, were included in the redesign. Plans include brick pavers, a pedestal for the monument, and natural stone landscaping features that will create a mini-plaza for reflection around the monument. We look forward to hosting opening the newly improved space in a couple of weeks.
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Loyola University Telecom Work Incoming
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After hearing concerns from residents through community surveys of 2024 and 2025, Loyola University will be conducting telecommunication cabling work on the west side of Sheridan Rd to bring upgraded lighting and safety features to the 1200 block of West Loyola Avenue.
The next phase of this work will take place south of the L-embankment from mid-June until mid-July. For intermittent short periods of time, commuters and pedestrians should be aware of temporary sidewalk closures and temporary vehicle lane closures as crews push cable under the street from east-to-west; seen as a red line in the above diagram. Please exercise caution and awareness in the area once construction begins.
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Kilmer Nature Play Area Construction Ongoing
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Just to the west of Kilmer Elementary, the school’s new playground is taking shape! There will be two separate play areas with age-appropriate equipment, funded by CPS, located on Kilmer's current playground space. Adjoining these two areas will be a nature play space, made possible by $200,000 won by Kilmer parents through our Participatory Budgeting process. Already, the entire space has been fenced off and the old play equipment removed, with the full project scheduled for completion in time for the fall semester. There will be a temporary No Parking restriction during work hours on the east side of N Bosworth, directly in front of the playlot, while construction is in effect. The result will be a wonderful asset both to Kilmer students and to the surrounding community!
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Lighting Project on 1615 - 1758 W Chase & 7200 - 7331 N Paulina
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The Chicago Department of Transportation is currently finishing up a residential street lighting project on the 1600 to 1700 block of Chase and the 7200 to 7300 block of Paulina. Crews are currently working to restore the landscape work, which they estimate will be done by Tuesday, June 16.
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Loyola University Construction at 6347 N Broadway
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Loyola University is currently undergoing several construction projects, including one at 6347 N Broadway. Construction at this address resulted in the northbound lane closure at N. Broadway on April 4. If you have any questions or concerns, please contact Loyola at neighborhood@luc.edu.
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Wild Onion Market Two-Year Celebration Today
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Wild Onion is marking two years of community, cooperation, and supporting local businesses with special savings throughout the week and at their anniversary event. In honor of this anniversary, they will be holding a celebration today, June 13, with a special discount offer for all shoppers. Today, all shoppers can get 10% off any local products or produce that the store carries. The celebration will also feature music from For the Birds, local vendors and samples, and a special owners’ giveaway. Stop by Wild Onion Market (7007 N Clark St) from 11:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. and celebrate!
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The Friends of Rogers Park Library is hosting a book sale on June 13, 2026, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Proceeds from this sale will help the Rogers Park Library (6908 N Clark) purchase more books, equipment, programming, and other free community resources. Check out the above flyer for pricing and more information. Consider attending this book sale and supporting a critical resource in our neighborhood.
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National Pollinator Week Celebration Today
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To celebrate National Pollinator Week, a time to recognize and celebrate pollinator health and the critical role that pollinators play in our food supply, you are invited to a free family event on Saturday, June 13, from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at Dvorak Park (1119 W Cullerton St)! Hosted by Mujeres por Espacios Verdes and Working Family Solidarity, this event will feature environmental education, a petting zoo, SNAP benefits resources, and more!
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Lakefront Shoreline Conditions Public Meeting June 15
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Join the Chicago Park District as they review the newly released Lakefront Shoreline Conditions Assessment. This first-of-its-kind plan takes a comprehensive look at the physical condition and vulnerability of Chicago's shoreline. The virtual meeting will consist of a presentation followed by a Q & A session. Learn more and attend here.
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Artists of the Wall Volunteering Opportunities
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Calling all volunteers! The Loyola Park Advisory Council is looking for volunteers for Artists of the Wall on June 19 in the afternoon, June 20 from 7AM-5PM, and June 21 from 9AM-4PM. They are looking for volunteers for:
- Artist check-in and registration support
- Paint distribution and restocking
- Set-up, clean-up, and general event help
Shifts are flexible, and you don’t need any special experience—just a willingness to help and be part of something joyful and creative. Interested? Sign up today and help make Artists of the Wall happen.
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Monarch Community Cafe Opens June 15
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We are so excited for the opening of the Monarch Community Market and Cafe (7010 N Clark St) on June 15! This cafe promises to be a community staple with coffee, tea, shakes, and more offerings exclusive to their store. To celebrate, they want to give out 5000 cups of free coffee/tea in their opening week! RSVP to reserve yours during their grand opening from June 15 to June 20.
RSVP here, and they will hold a free drink for you. When you come in any day between June 15 and 20, just show them your RSVP at the register. This offer is good for a free 12-oz brewed coffee/tea, between the dates of June 15th and June 20th only.
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Rogers Park/West Ridge Historical Society Letters To America June 15
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Join the Rogers Park/West Ridge Historical Society as Julie Lynch, Head Librarian at the Northside Neighborhood History Collection, presents on the importance and process of the Chicago Public Library’s “Letter to America”. The initiative commemorates the 250th anniversary of the United States by inviting Chicago residents to write personal letters to America – sharing reflections, critiques, hopes, and stories rooted in the Chicago experience. Letters will be archived for future generations to enjoy and learn about the lives we live today. You can register to attend here.
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Leone Beach Park Events June 17 and June 24
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The Leone Beach Park Advisory Council has two upcoming events to connect participants with nature. Consider checking these events out!
- On Wednesday, June 17th at 7:30 p.m., the Leone Beach Park Advisory Council is hosting Liza Lehrer from the Lincoln Park Zoo to discuss bats in the Chicago region. The presentation will be at the Loyola Park fieldhouse (1230 W. Greenleaf), followed by a bat walk.
- On Wednesday, June 24th, local author Michael McColly will read from his book Walking Chicago's Coast: A 63-Mile Journey to the Indiana Dunes. Michael will present his book at the Loyola Park fieldhouse (1230 W. Greenleaf) at 7:00 p.m.
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ONENorthside Juneteenth Event June 19
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Join ONE Northside for its 6th annual Juneteenth celebration! This celebration and cookout will have free food and drinks available for attendees, located at Pottawattomie Park (7340 N Rogers Ave) on Friday, June 19, from 1:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. Come celebrate Juneteenth and connect with your community in the process!
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ECRA Juneteenth Reflection Event June 19
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The Edgewater Community Religious Association, ECRA, invites you to a FREE Juneteenth Service: “Recognize the Past, Name the Present” – a time to reflect, remember, and celebrate. Reflect, remember, and celebrate at 7:00 p.m. on Friday, June 19 at Sacred Heart Schools Chapel (6250 North Sheridan Rd). The one hour gathering will be followed by a celebratory reception where State Senator Mike Simmons will offer the keynote address, and Circles and Ciphers will perform. ECRA is an interfaith group of Christian, Muslim and Jewish congregations primarily in Edgewater. All are welcome!
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Festival of Chariots Parade June 21
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We welcome everyone in the community to join us in celebrating the annual Festival of Chariots! Brought from the cultural heart of India, this ancient festival is a free yearly cultural offering in the Rogers Park community. Experience joyful live mantra music, graceful classical Indian dance, and creative stage performances. Enjoy a full day of festivities, including kids' activities, balloon twisters and magic shows, Henna, face painting, and more! The parade starts at Birchwood Ave at 11:30 AM, ending at the Morse/Sheridan intersection. Save the date for Sunday, June 21, 2026!
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Teen Pride Space Tabling June 20-21
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Chicago Pride Fest will be holding a Teen Pride Space on June 20 and June 21 from 11:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. at Chicago Pride Fest, located at the intersection of Waveland and Broadway. There will be free food, music, drag performances, and more. If you are heading to the Chicago Pride Fest, consider stopping by the Teen Pride Space!
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Rogers Park Neighbors United Happy Hour June 24
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Rogers Park Neighbors United is a casual neighborhood happy hour series focused on bringing together people who live, work, and spend time in Rogers Park and nearby communities. Whether you’re new to the area or have been here for years, it’s a relaxed way to meet neighbors, make connections, support local businesses, and enjoy a good night out with friendly people from the community. This month, they will be gathering at Ward Eight (629 W Howard St, Evanston, IL) on Wednesday, June 24, from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. RSVP here to attend.
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June Events At Rogers Park Library
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Summer is right around the corner, and the Rogers Park Library (6907 N Clark) has plenty of special events just for you! Interested in any of the above events? Click here for more details.
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It's summertime, which means trees need care more than ever! Check out these tips from the Urban Forestry Advisory Board on proper tree care:
- Proper mulching is one of the simplest ways to care for a tree. Follow the 3-3-3 Rule: apply mulch 3 inches deep, in a 3-foot-wide circle, while keeping it 3 inches away from the trunk. This creates a donut-shaped mulch ring that helps trees thrive. Avoid creating "mulch volcanoes" by piling mulch against the trunk. Excess mulch around the base of a tree can trap moisture against the bark, encourage decay, promote circling roots, and create conditions favorable to pests and diseases. Spending a few minutes flattening a mulch volcano into a donut-shaped ring can help prevent common tree health issues and support long-term growth.
- To support healthy growth and establishment, provide 10–15 gallons of water each week at the base of the tree—about 2–3 five-gallon buckets. Water slowly and deeply so the moisture penetrates the soil and reaches the developing roots rather than running off the surface. During drought periods, watering can also help established trees stay healthy.
More information can be found here.
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Purchase A Square For Chalkfest
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Chalk Howard Street is back! This vibrant event invites national and local street artists, neighbors, families, and art lovers to transform Howard Street in Rogers Park into a creative canvas. Want to be part of transforming Howard Street? Express your creativity by purchasing a 4’ x 4’ square for $25. Chalkfest will be on Saturday, August 22, from 11 a.m. - 7 p.m. on Howard Street between Paulina & Ashland. Learn more here!
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Culture of Safety Summer Offerings
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Are you wondering what your child should do for the summer? Consider registering for Culture of Safety's (6961 N Clark) summer karate and empowerment camps for ages six and up! These sessions will teach students the basics of karate and self-empowerment. All camps are offered at sliding scale/tiered pricing. Register here.
For non-students, don't forget about weekly meditation on Sundays from 10:00 a.m. to 11:30 a.m., led by Kyren Epperson. These classes are free of charge and open to beginners on a drop-in basis. You can register here. Additionally, Culture of Safety offers community Tai Chi classes on Mondays at 7:00 p.m., taught by Sifu Rodrigo, with a suggested donation of $15/session. Learn more or register here.
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Join Community Corner Gardens Today
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Do you want to connect with the Earth and help beautify your neighborhood, but aren't sure where to start? A Rogers Park community garden group is looking for neighbors to help maintain and/or expand corner gardens around Hoyne, Seeley, Damen, Jarvis, Fargo, and Birchwood. For more info, please email CommunityCornerGardens@gmail.com.
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North Side Queer Pride Volunteer Form Available
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Are you interested in volunteering for the inaugural weekend of North Side Queer Pride? NSQP plans to have a whole weekend of events for Pride Month to celebrate the LGBTQ+ community, and they're asking for your help to make it a reality. Sign up here to volunteer and be part of this wonderful event.
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Rogers Park Artists Cooperative Seeking Volunteers
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Rogers Park Artists Cooperative (RPAC) is a new organization to empower our local artistic community by providing support and promoting collaboration to ensure sustainability through shared resources and culture. They are seeking volunteers to serve on our Board of Directors. Please contact admin@rpacchicago.org for details.
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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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Factory Theater Presents: Two Out Of Three Falls
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In 1988, wrestling legend King Kong Bruiser was murdered. His killer walked away clean. In 2019, Johanna Goodish, daughter of the Bruiser, can’t seem to step out of his shadow. So she’s going to do the one thing that might shake off the ghost: she’s going to kill the man who killed her dad. And she’s going to do it in the middle of the ring, live on pay-per-view.
Show dates: June 11-July 18, Thursday, Friday & Saturday @ 8:00 pm
You can purchase tickets here!
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Willye B White Call For Artists
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Calling all musicians! Make Music Chicago, a summer solstice musical event on June 21, will take place at Willye B. White Park (1610 W Howard), and they are looking for performers! This free opportunity to perform is available for all musicians. To be included, please send your demo to evamccann1228@gmail.com.
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Theatre Above The Law Presents: The Matchmaker
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Thornton Wilder’s classic work, "The Matchmaker," has been reimagined by Theatre Above the Law, in alignment with their mission to challenge the norms of theater by presenting classic stories in relatable ways. The play has been condensed into an inventive 90-minute production, divided into four scenes.
Wealthy merchant Horace Vandergelder enlists the services of Dolly Levi to find him a suitable wife. What follows is a series of comical mishaps—all in the name of adventure!
Directed by Tony Lawry, with stage management by Reagan Stevenson. The cast includes: Justine Serino, Caleb Ryan Jones, Ross Compton, Stephanie Stockstill, Izzy Shafer, Teddy Nielsen, Mery Drilling Coren, and Elijah Warfield.
"The Matchmaker" will run from May 29 to June 28 at Theatre Above The Law (1439 W. Jarvis), and tickets will be priced between $15 and $25. You can purchase tickets here.
Use the special District 49 code, OhHorns!, to receive a $10 discount off the regular ticket price ($25); subject to availability and valid for online purchases only.
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Chicago Tap Theatre Presents: Saturn Returns
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Directed by Molly Smith, Saturn Returns tells the universally human story of getting older through tap dance and live music with new choreography by Smith and the dancers of Chicago Tap Theatre. Based on the Saturn return process in astrology, this show, the ultimate in CTT’s ’25-’26 season, is a heartwarming snapshot of our individual pasts, presents, and futures. Saturn Returns will show at The Edge Theatre (5451 N Broadway) on Thursday, June 11th, at 7 pm, Friday, June 12th, at 7 pm, Saturday, June 13th, at 5 pm, and Sunday, June 14th, at 2 pm. You can purchase tickets here.
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Lifeline Theatre Presents:
LOKI - The End Of The World Tour
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LOKI arrives at Asgard, bringing chaos, comedy, and three monstrous (maybe) children. LOKI tangles with Odin, Thor, and the mysterious Freya; each with their own agenda; their own secrets—but all paths lead to one eternal question: In an us vs. them world, can we envision a new mythology?
LOKI closes Sun, June 14, and will be at the Lifeline Theatre (6912 N. Glenwood Ave.) You can purchase tickets here.
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Sullivan Summer Program Opportunities
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Are you a student still looking for something to do this summer? Sullivan High School (6631 N Bosworth) has plenty of art, sports, college prep, and other kinds of activities available! Check about the above flyers and try something new this summer!
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Free Access to the YMCA for Teens
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Chicago teens ages 12-18 are eligible for a free membership at a city YMCA location this summer. No fees. No barriers. In addition, all current YMCA members ages 12–18 in the city will receive a complimentary membership in July and August.
WHAT’S INCLUDED: Access to sports, fitness, creative activities, and a place to connect. Try something new, spend time with friends, or just hang out — the Y is yours all summer long! Register in person at one of our seven city YMCA Locations.
PARTICIPATING CHICAGO LOCATIONS-
IRVING PARK YMCA- 4251 W. Irving Park Rd.
KELLY HALL YMCA- 824 N. Hamlin Ave.
LAKE VIEW YMCA- 3333 N. Marshfield Ave.
McCORMICK YMCA- 1834 N. Lawndale Ave.
RAUNER FAMILY YMCA- 2700 S. Western Ave.
SOUTH SIDE YMCA- 6330 S. Stony Island Ave.
WEST GARFIELD PARK YMCA- 4305 W. Madison St.
AGES: 12–17 yrs. old, a parent or guardian must be present and bring a driver’s license, State ID, or City Key with a Chicago address. Teens aged 18: register on your own with a driver’s license, State ID, or City Key with a Chicago address.
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Camp Courage Applications Open Now
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Camp Courage applications are available now! This unique camp is designed for youth ages 13–18 and offers a hands-on introduction to the world of firefighting and emergency medical services (EMS). Over the course of three days, participants will take part in physical fitness training, firefighting and EMS skill-building, team-based challenges, and mentorship with CFD professionals— all at no cost to families.
Camp Courage 2026 will run from June to July and will be held at various locations in the city. The program concludes with a graduation ceremony to celebrate each participant’s accomplishments.
Space is limited, and participants will be selected based on eligibility, interest, and a short essay. A mandatory parent/guardian virtual orientation will be held prior to the start of camp, with materials shared via email. Please complete this form to apply. We look forward to learning more about you!
For questions, email: cfdcampcourage@cityofchicago.org
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A student is eligible for Summer EBT 2026 without an application if they meet one of the following criteria:
- The student's birthday is between 07/02/2007 and 08/14/2020, AND they've received SNAP, TANF, or Medicaid between 07/01/2025 and 08/14/2026
OR
- They attended a school that participated in the National School Lunch Program (NSLP) this school year, and received free or reduced fare lunch
If you want to check if you're eligible, you can fill out this screening tool: Illinois Summer EBT: EBT Screener IDHS can help you fill out the application! Below is the information you will need for your appointment:
- Names and birthdays for everyone who lives with you
- Income information for all members of the household
- Social Security Number (if you have one)
- Contact information
- Social Security Number (if you have one)
- Name of school they are enrolled in for the 2025-2026 school year
- Student's school district
For more information, please visit the IDHS website.
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Mayor Youth Commission Application Open Now
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Apply for the Mayor’s Youth Commission for 2026-2027, now through Friday, June 19, 2026! The Mayor's Youth Commission (MYC) is a group of up to 40 Chicagoans (who live within the boundaries of the City of Chicago) between the ages of 14 and 19 who serve as a liaison between the Chicago Mayor's Office and Chicago's youth.
The Commission meets monthly to foster youth-driven civic engagement and amplify youth voices to impact the City's critical policy conversations. Any youth who is interested must apply by June 19, 2026. This is a paid opportunity for youth and a great way for young people to get their voices heard! Want to learn more? Click here!
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Pottawattomie Park Summer Camp Open Now
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Get ready for an unforgettable summer! Join the Chicago Park District at Pottawattomie Park (7340 N Rogers) for six weeks of exciting activities, meeting new friends, and creating lasting memories. Day camp will operate Monday through Friday, 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m., for ages 6-12. The registration fee will be $195 for the day camp. For those interested in extended camp, this will operate from 3:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m., Monday through Friday, and will cost $70. Both camps will run from June 22 to July 31. You can register online here.
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Become a Lifeguard This Summer
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Being a lifeguard along Chicago’s gorgeous lakefront or a neighborhood pool is a job unlike any other. You'll be part of one of the country's largest and best-trained lifeguard corps, gaining life-saving skills while making a difference in people's lives. Be part of their team in 2026 & make $20.50 an hour! Apply today & register for a swim test.
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Chicago Park District Summer Jobs Available
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The Chicago Park District has plenty of opportunities for teens this summer, from ages 13 and up! To see a list of open positions and submit an application, click here.
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49th Ward School Supply Drive Through July 30th
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Help support our students by donating school supplies! Our office is hosting a school supply drive in collaboration with State Representative Kelly Cassidy's Office, State Senator Mike Simmons' Office, and C24/7 Father’s Arms Ministries, starting Monday, June 15th, through Thursday, July 30th. All items must be sealed or brand new.
You can stop by our offices any time between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. Monday through Thursday to drop off donations:
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49th Ward Office: 1447 W Morse Ave
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State Representative Kelly Cassidy Office: 1507 W Morse Ave
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C24/7 Office: 1543 W Howard St (between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. Monday through Friday)
All supply donations will be distributed at our 49th Ward Back to School Bash on August 8th at Willye B White Park. More details regarding this event will be published later in July.
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CPD Policy Review Public Feedback
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The Chicago Police Department is currently accepting public feedback on several policies, and they want to hear from residents across the city. Those interested can read about the policies below and share your thoughts. The more perspectives that are represented, the better.
Whether you have direct experience with these issues or simply want to stay informed, your input is valuable and can help shape the final policies.
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Homegrown Purchase Assistance Program
Open June 8
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Mayor Brandon Johnson and the Department of Housing have announced the HomeGrown Purchase Assistance Program, which aims to help low- and moderate-income Chicagoans achieve homeownership by providing direct financial support. The HomeGrown program will provide up to $70,000 in forgivable grants to eligible homebuyers to purchase a 1-2 unit home in Chicago.
Applications for the HomeGrown program will open on Monday, June 8. You can learn more and apply here.
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The Department of Planning and Development (DPD) and SomerCor will roll out the Small Business Improvement Fund (SBIF) grant program for applications for the Devon/Sheridan corridor, serving Edgewater and Rogers Park. Applications open at 9 a.m. on Monday, June 1, and close at 5 p.m. on Tuesday, June 30. The SBIF program uses revenue from TIF districts to help owners of commercial and industrial properties to repair or remodel their facilities for their own business or on behalf of tenants. Tenant businesses are also eligible to apply on their own.
Program participants can receive grants for 30 to 90 percent of project costs, with a maximum grant of $150,000 for commercial properties and $250,000 for industrial properties. The grants are administered by SomerCor on the City's behalf and do not have to be repaid. Those interested in applying can verify that their property is located in an eligible district by using the SBIF Locator Map tool.
DPD and SomerCor will host an informational webinar to review program requirements and the application process. For additional information, visit www.chicago.gov/sbif.
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OEMC Flood Relief Funds Available
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The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) has approved a disaster declaration for the severe storms and flooding that impacted six counties in northeastern Illinois from July 25–28, 2025. This declaration will allow homeowners, renters, businesses, and certain non-profit organizations to apply for low-interest loans to help cover damages not covered by insurance.
Homeowners and renters can apply for up to $500,000 in low-interest loans to repair or replace damaged or destroyed real estate. Homeowners or renters can apply for up to $100,000 to repair or replace damaged or destroyed personal property such as appliances and furniture. Businesses and some not-for-profits can borrow up to $2 million for physical damages.
The filing deadline to return applications for physical property damage is June 22. The deadline to return economic injury applications is Jan. 25, 2027. Residents can apply for disaster assistance at sba.gov/funding-programs/disaster-assistance now.
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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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