Dear 33rd Ward Community,
I love our community schools! I have made it a goal of my administration to build strong relationships with our school communities and to help advance much needed investments to our school resources. At the start of the school year we were able to share updates with you regarding improvements to the play lot at Von Linne school. We look forward to construction beginning next summer on Von Linne’s new turf soccer field, running track, and basketball court that will replace an existing asphalt playlot.
Last week I was able to visit Roosevelt school’s brand new turf field that is nearing completion. This project was funded through an allocation from the Lawrence & Kedzie TIF. I’m very proud of the collaborative work with Chicago Public Schools it took to get to this point. We can’t wait to see our Roosevelt students putting it to good use. Soon we will celebrate this much needed new facility and they will have their first home game in 100 years!
This week we received a timeline for new updates to Cleveland school’s playlot. Construction will begin next spring on several site improvements to include: a new play area for children ages 2-5 with a safe rubber ground surface; a new outdoor classroom; and a new play area for children ages 5-12 with a safe rubber ground surface. The project managers expect to have this work completed for the start of the new school year. Finally, we learned that the application process for Bateman school’s improvements will be moving forward this month, and I look forward to sharing updates about that work soon.
I also wanted to share some investments that Mayor Johnson has committed to in his budget address from earlier this week. I am so proud to see honest efforts to begin investing in a public mental healthcare infrastructure for Chicago. We received commitments to invest in at least two mental health clinics over the next year. We also see investments in staffing for the Chicago Department of Public Health to begin hiring mental health professionals and crisis responders to offer Chicagoans an alternative to calling the police for mental health care. All of these investments will lay a foundation for more investment next year following future recommendations of the Treatment Not Trauma Working Group that my Committee on Health is currently working to form.
Additionally, Mayor Johnson has made commitments to: re-open the city’s Department of the Environment; to establish a new Mayor’s Office of Labor Relations to support an expanded staff at the Department of Labor Standards to ensure Chicago’s workers have adequate legal representation in our government; expand funding for Chicago’s youth employment program to fund an additional 4,000 positions for youth; expand the Department of Housing Home Repair assistance program; expand the Mayor’s Office for People with Disabilities Home Modification Program; and invest in a mayor program to replace lead water lines in Chicago. Mayor Johnson has called this budget “The People’s Budget,” and it’s clear he has looked to the demands of everyday Chicagoans and has made efforts to support people most in need. I look forward to budget hearings over the next few weeks to clarify questions and make this budget as successful as we can.
Please reach out to my office for any assistance. We are here to help.
– Rossana, 33rd Ward Alderwoman
Flu and Covid vaccine clinic: Nov 4, 2023 from 11am – 3pm @ Cleveland Elementary School. Make a separate appointment for each family member. Only select quantity (1) of each vaccine per appointment. Appointment can be made by clicking here. • You may arrive anytime within the 3-4 hours between the start and end times of this event. Wait times are typically longer at the start of an event. • No government issued ID is required. Insurance will be requested. However, uninsured persons will be served free of charge. Anyone under 18 must have a parent or guardian with them to sign consent.
Please note that the Chicago Department of Public Health released its website connecting Chicagoans to free updated Covid vaccines and flu shots. Vaccines will be available beginning next week. You can learn more information by clicking here.
Sign up for At-home Covid Testing Kits to be delivered by the USPS starting on Monday Sept 25 by clicking here.
33RD WARD OFFICE INFORMATION
Address: 4747 N Sawyer Ave, Chicago, IL 60625
Office Hours: Monday – Thursday 10am – 5pm; Friday 9am – 4pm
Phone: 773-840-7880
Email: info@33rdward.org
Website and constituent resources: www.33rdward.org
Follow us on Facebook and Twitter
WARD EVENTS
Ward Night
Upcoming: Monday, October 16, from 4:00pm – 6:00pm at 4747 N Sawyer Ave
Next: Monday, October 30, from 4:00pm – 6:00pm at 4747 N Sawyer Ave
Ward Night is an opportunity to bring your questions or concerns to the Alderwoman in a one-on-one meeting. Each Ward Night is first come, first serve. Walk-ins will be taken until 5:45 pm. For more information, please contact our office at info@33rdward.org or 773-840-7880.
Participatory Budgeting
This year’s Participatory Budgeting process (PB) has entered the second phase of work. Our idea collection period has closed and we will now be reviewing our list of projects. You can still join our committee to learn the ins and outs of Participatory Budgeting and help us involve our community. Your voice matters, and together, we can improve and maintain our community through direct participation in infrastructure decisions. Let’s shape our community together! To be added to our PB email list, please reach out to info@33rdward.org
Next meeting: Thursday, October 19 from 4:30pm – 6:00pm at Roosevelt High School (see below for entrance details)
Upcoming: October 16th
The PB Committee will meet weekly unless otherwise noted from 4:30pm – 6:00pm at Roosevelt High School, Room 314. You can enter the doors off of the parking lot on Leland. Ring the doorbell and the security guard will open the door for you. Each meeting is open to the public. You can participate as you are able. We do not hold the expectation for you to attend every meeting. Please come join us to learn, share your thoughts, and eat some snacks!
33rd Ward Halloween Decoration Contest
Deadline: October 20th, at 12pm
Alderman Rossana Rodriguez-Sanchez and the team would like to thank our neighbors for always bringing the spooky season to the 33rd Ward in BIG and creative ways. For that reason, we are bringing back our 33d Ward Halloween Decoration Contest!
We invite you to submit your decorations for a chance to win prizes for you and your family. You can use this form to submit pictures/videos of your decorations. The top THREE Houses or Apartments will get a holiday gift basket for their families. You can click here to use this form to submit pictures/videos of your decorations.
Timeline:
- Decorations can be indoors and/or outdoors
- Deadlines for submissions will be Friday, October 20th at 12pm
- Neighbors will vote on their favorite decorations from October 23 – October 27 at 12pm
- Winners will be announced on October 31st
PLEASE make sure you live in the ward before submitting your hard work: https://www.chicago.gov/city/en/depts/mayor/iframe/lookup_ward_and_alderman.html
If you have any questions you may email info@33rdward.org or call my office at (773) 840-7880
*NOTE: Any files shared in this form will be shared on our public platforms (Facebook, Twitter, and our website). Voters will see your files and your address or submission title. We will NOT share your name with your submissions*
SAGE Brigade Meeting
Sage brigade is a group of volunteers along with Councilwoman Rossana Rodriguez’s office, to help seniors with benefit information and fill out some applications in case they need help. Anyone can attend, but we focus on providing information regarding benefits or programs for seniors.
At our meeting this month we had as a guest a social worker from the Metropolitan Family Services department and she told us about the importance of mental health and various programs they offer.
CONSTITUENT RESOURCES
CDOT Infrastructure Improvement Map
33rd Ward Community Driven Zoning
Recycling and garbage schedule
2023 Street Sweeping schedule and interactive map
COMMITTEE CORNER
We will use this space to share updates on legislation coming through the committee.
City Council met several times over the past two weeks to handle business related to the following:
- Treatment Not Trauma Working Group Ordinance: Passed without objection
- Bring Chicago Home Ordinance: We held the first public hearing to receive testimony calling for the need for this ordinance. It was then directed to the Rules Committee to develop language for a referendum question to be placed on the primary election ballot in March 2024
- One Fair Wage: Passed in special council session and wage increase will begin July 2024
- 2024 City Budget Proposal by Mayor Johnson
Free Libraries: I want to address an ordinance that was introduced by Ald. Lopez regarding restrictions to “Free Libraries” that would require permits for any existing or future libraries within the public way, which includes parkways between the sidewalk and the curb. I have received so much advocacy to oppose this ordinance, and I intend to do so. Free libraries are an incredible resource for our communities. Please continue to advocate.
Cumulative Impacts Assessment:
I would also like to address an important report that was presented to a joint hearing of my Committee on Health and Human Relations and the Committee on Environmental Protection and Energy this week. The Cumulative Impacts Assessment is a report intended to document the cumulative impacts of a wide variety of environmental pollutants on the long term health of people in communities with high levels of pollution. The report has revealed patterns that show high concentrations of pollutants in many poor, working class, communities across Chicago and has named such communities “Environmental Justice (EJ) Neighborhoods.” One such area of concern is a portion of Avondale that has become heavily polluted due to the construction of the highway.
The CIA used metrics such as amounts of air pollution, proximity to traffic, and socioeconomic factors to calculate the “EJ Index Score.” Neighborhoods with a Chicago EJ Index Score of 75 or greater, or whose Chicago EJ Index score is 70 or greater and contiguous with another neighborhood with a Chicago EJ Index Score of 75 or greater were the criteria to be considered an “EJ Neighborhood.” Not unexpectedly, most of these neighborhoods are on the South and West sides. The biggest next step is to consider the draft ordinance being developed by CDPH, the Office of Climate & Environmental Equity (OCEE), and the Environmental Equity Working Group (EEWG), which will be available by October 31. This ordinance will focus on creating structures to promote EJ, amending existing environmental ordinances like the Air Quality Zoning ordinance, and making sure new developments in EJ neighborhoods are very appropriately vetted and in the interest of the community. Other recommendations for new or follow up ordinances include expanding community air monitoring, incentivizing use of public transportation and bikes, increasing tree planting, installing “smart lighting” in EJ neighborhoods, and much more.
WARD UPDATES
River Park Playground Improvement Concept – For Public Input
River Park is seeking public comment on their concept for playground improvements to the Reiver Park Playground. They will be also sharing these with the River Park Advisory Council at the next meeting on October 18. Community Survey
Small Business Spotlight:
A new shop has joined our bustling small businesses community in Albany Park! Shine & Shop, owned and operated by Weronika Koscielniak, is a budget-friendly boutique that has clothing for men, women, and children. They also offer a unique collection of jewelry, shoes, home goods, and more!
Be sure to check out Shine & Shop at 4810 N Kedzie Ave from 10 AM – 6PM (Monday – Sunday).
Discounted Rain Barrel Program – While Supplies Last
The Metropolitan Water Reclamation District of Greater Chicago is selling subsidized rain water barrels at a discounted rate (10.75 for seniors/$21.50 for everyone else). Rain barrels are a helpful tool in diverting rain water flow from downspouts to gardens. You can order a rain barrel at the following link: https://mwrd.org/rain-barrels You can reach out to our office for assistance with your application.
Road closure notice: Sewer Repair and replaceAt this time, work is expected to begin during the week of October 2, 2023.
Beginning in early-October 2023, a Department of Water Management private contractor will begin installing an underground sewer structure at the intersection of N Albany Ave and W School St. Due to the nature of the work, this intersection will be closed to traffic for the duration of construction. Work at this location is expected to last approximately 4-6 weeks. Upon completion by the contractor, a City of Chicago In-House sewer crew is expected to continue installation of sewer pipe along W School St between N Albany Ave and N Elston Ave.
Liquor Moratorium (4749 N. Albany Ave.) – Community Meeting
The collection period for public comment has closed. We will send updates as they develop.
Grid-Based Tree Trimming
The Bureau of Forestry is no longer receiving individual tree trimming requests and has shifted to a grid-based maintenance schedule similar to the street sweeping schedule. You can view the map here.
Previously completed grid section: N032 W028, which covers Addison to Belmont from California to Kedzie
Current grid section: N040 W028, which covers Montrose to Irving Park Rd from California to Kedzie
Each grid segment can take between three weeks and two months to complete. Tree trimming personnel will be in the ward weekly, weather permitting. Similar to street sweeping notifications, trees will be posted with signage in advance of tree trimming. Upon the completion of each grid segment, we will make an announcement about which grid will be completed next. If you’re worried about the immediate safety of the area around a given tree due to its conditions, you can reach out to 311 or our office so the appropriate service request can be made.
The results of both increased funding for the Department of Forestry and move to a grid-based system has resulted in more than triple the amount of trees being trimmed this year compared to the same time period last year. This change in system, along with an increase in full-time equivalents for forestry operations in the 2023 budget, will mean more trees in our ward, and the city, will be maintained than year’s past.
Having trouble filling a vacant apartment? Chicago Rents can help:
Ariel Parrella-Aureli reported on the Chicago Rents program for Block Club. Chicago Rents is a program that offers guaranteed rents and additional incentives for landlords interested in providing affordable housing for tenants.The program has already housed more than 2000 Chicagoans. Chicago Rents provides support to both the tenant and the landlord throughout the duration of the lease. If you’re a landlord who’s interested in learning more, click here. Landlords can also fill out a survey by clicking here and Chicago Rents staff will reach out to you.
SUPPORTING NEW CHICAGOANS
Donations
Our office continues to receive calls, emails, and walk-ins from constituents who wish to support new Chicagoans. One of the immediate ways to help is to check the Instituto del Progreso Latino Amazon Wish List which is updated frequently to meet the needs of new arrivals in the city’s temporary shelters. Only new items are being accepted at this time. Additionally, Instituto del Progreso Latino is accepting monetary donations to purchase items in bulk. Donations can be made by visiting InstitutoChicago.org. For additional information, visit chicago.gov/support.
Please do not drop or donate any items at Chicago Police Districts.
Furniture can be donated to Chicago Furniture Bank. The Furniture Bank, in partnership with New Life Centers, is providing furniture to new arrivals who are being resettled into permanent housing. The Furniture Bank is also the largest provider of free furniture to the unhoused Chicagoans as well.
To donate your gently used and new furniture, clothing, and other essential hygiene items visit any @C2CChicago location or select @NLCenters locations.
Volunteer Opportunities
Members of our community have formed the Community Care Collective to direct mutual aid efforts in the 33rd Ward. You can learn about volunteer opportunities by following this link.
Public Dashboard
The city recently created a public dashboard that provides insight into the number and distribution of migrants in Chicago and where they are being sheltered.
APPLYING FOR FLOOD RELIEF FROM FEMA
The deadline to apply for FEMA assistance is Monday, October 16, 2023 at 11:59 p.m. CT. You must register with FEMA to receive assistance.
FEMA is rapidly opening Disaster Recovery Centers across Cook County, with five new centers in operation this week. You can find our nearest center at: Washington Square Mall, 4851 W North Ave, Chicago, IL, 60639. They are open from 7am – 7pm every day.
How to Apply:
If you have insurance coverage, first file a claim. If you have uninsured or underinsured losses, contact FEMA by going online to disasterassistance.gov, downloading the FEMA app or calling the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362. You can also watch this instruction video. If you use video relay service, captioned telephone service or others, give FEMA your number for that service. When calling the FEMA Helpline, multilingual operators are available (press 2 for Spanish and 3 for other languages).
How to Appeal: Fliers can be found by clicking here
Information and Instructional Fliers: Fliers can be found by clicking here
Federal assistance may include temporary lodging, basic home repairs and other disaster-related expenses.
Have the following information ready when you register with FEMA:
- A current phone number where you can be contacted
- Your address at the time of the disaster and the address where you are now staying
- Your social security number (or the social security number of a minor child in your household, if you’re applying on their behalf).
- A general list of damage and losses
- Banking information if you choose direct deposit
- If insured, the policy number or the agent and/or the company name
When registering, one member of a household needs to comply with citizenship criteria. That means a minor child who is a citizen, non-citizen national or qualified non-citizen can have a parent or guardian who is not eligible apply for assistance on the child’s behalf.
What to Expect After You Apply:
A FEMA inspector may call you to set up a time and date to perform the inspection at the damaged address. If you have filed for assistance and receive a call from an out of state number, pick it up. Be sure to have your application number available.
During the inspection inspectors will: - Observe social distancing guidelines
- Show their credentials
- Ask to see a photo ID
- Ask to see documents to verify the home ownership or occupancy if FEMA has been unable to verify
- Walk around the interior and exterior of your home if feasible
- Document damage
Inspectors WON’T decide if you will receive assistance, ask for money, bank account information or credit card information. Residents can call the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362 to verify a FEMA visit is legitimate.
Within 10 days after the inspectors visit, you will: - Receive a letter of electronic correspondence explaining FEMA’s decision
- If you are determined eligible for assistance, you may receive a U.S. Treasury check or direct deposit
- For more information click here
COMMUNITY EVENTS
Roosevelt Community Fleamarket
Date: Saturday, Oct 14 from 7am – 1pm
Location: 3436 W. Wilson Ave – Roosevelt Parking Lot
Fundraiser for Asylum Seekers (Community Care Collective)
When: Saturday, October 22 from 4-7pm
Location: 3248 W Montrose Ave
The Community Care Collective 33 was established this year to continue our communities’ efforts to support newly arrived asylum seekers and migrants. Tickets get you a live show from La Obra, live DJ, food and beverages, and every ticket purchase also gets you a custom shirt with the “Care For Each Other” logo. You can reserve tickets or make a donation by clicking this link.
Rally against People’s Gas Record Rate IncreaseWhen: Oct 19, 2023
Information can be seen here.
Communities United – A Gathering of Communities: Strategizing for a Healing-Centered City
When: Saturday, November 11 from 10:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m
Where: UIC Student Center East | 750 S Halsted St, Chicago, IL 60607
Register today for A Gathering of Communities: Strategizing for a Healing-Centered City to be a part of an organizing effort that prioritizes healing and justice.
If you cannot attend the conference but are interested in supporting our efforts, please spread the word and DONATE.
Friends of Hibbard Elementary – Harvest Fest
Date: Friday, Oct 20 from 5:00 – 7:00pm
Location: Hibbard Plaza
Friends of Hibbard is looking for organizations and businesses that would like to host a table at the event. This entails hosting a game, activity, or giveaway. Last year we had about 300 kids, so expect to be busy! It’s a great time to be creative!
Donations: https://www.amazon.com/hz/wishlist/ls/3UTXWQPDP27QG?ref_=wl_share
Volunteer / table sign up: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1HO3hwAf21rlzwPHz7RNdXECC4LdR2PuqfS64vCvZCBg/mobilebasic
Children’s Resale Shop
Date: Saturday, October 14th from 8am to 2pm
Location: 2330 W. Sunnyside Ave.
Queen of Angels School will hold its annual Children’s Resale Shop. Bring your shopping bags and stock up on tons of new and gently used children’s clothing, shoes, accessories, strollers, furniture, toys, games, puzzles, baby equipment, books, ride-ons, sports equipment, Halloween costumes, and more! Cash and credit accepted. Admission is $2. Hope to see you there!
Irving Park Community Food Pantry Coat Drive Begins in October
Irving Park Community Food Pantry (4256 N. Ridgeway) hosts its annual coat drive this October and November and seeks donations of new or gently used winter coats.
Coats will be distributed Tuesday, October 10th and continue every Wednesday through November 8 for clients in 60641 and 60618 zip codes. The Pantry also accepts hats, scarves, gloves and mittens.
Drop off partners:
- Big Helpers, 4184 N. Elston Ave.
- Compass Real Estate, 2044 W Roscoe St.,1653 N. Milwaukee Ave. and 2350 N. Lincoln Ave.
- Disney II Magnet School, 3815 N. Kedvale Ave.
- Disney II Magnet High School, 3900 Lawndale Ave.
- Distinct Bath & Body, 4046 N Milwaukee Ave
- Irish American Heritage Center, 4626 N Knox Ave.
- Irving Park YMCA, 4251 W Irving Park Rd.
- Jet’s Pizza, 3951 N. Kimball Ave.
- J.T.’s Genuine Sandwich Shop, 3970 N. Elston Ave.
- Old Irving Brewing Company, 4419 W Montrose Ave.
- Front porch at 4731 Kiona Ave.
To drop off a large donation or to host a drive, email info@irvingparkfoodpantry.org. http://www.irvingparkfoodpantry.org
Brands Park Fall Programming
For more information or for questions, please contact teresa.wooldridge@chicagoparkdistrict.com or call (312) 656-7223. Register online at www.ChicagoParkDistrict.com or by visiting Horner Park.
YOUTH OPPORTUNITIES
BUSINESS RESOURCES
Friends of Hibbard Elementary – Harvest Fest
Date: Friday, Oct 20 from 5:00 – 7:00pm
Location: Hibbard Plaza
Friends of Hibbard is looking for organizations and businesses that would like to host a table at the event. This entails hosting a game, activity, or giveaway. Last year we had about 300 kids, so expect to be busy! It’s a great time to be creative!
Donations: https://www.amazon.com/hz/wishlist/ls/3UTXWQPDP27QG?ref_=wl_share
Volunteer / table sign up: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1HO3hwAf21rlzwPHz7RNdXECC4LdR2PuqfS64vCvZCBg/mobilebasic
Small Business Improvement Fund Applications – Apply Nov. 1, 2023
Applications open: 9 a.m. Wednesday, Nov. 1
Applications close: 5 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 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.
DPD and SomerCor will host an informational webinar to review program requirements and the application process.
SBIF Informational Webinar – 1 p.m. Wednesday, Nov. 1 | Register
For additional information, visit www.chicago.gov/sbif
Holiday Marketing Workshop
Date: Monday, October 23 | 11:00 AM [Eng], Tuesday, October 24| 11:00 AM [Esp]
Location: Via Zoom
RSVP: Click here to RSVP
Join Alexia Guzman, Master in Marketing, for a special webinar to learn everything about Holiday Marketing. Learn tips and hacks to upgrade your social media game and skyrocket your sales this winter! This is a partnership among the Albany Park Chamber of Commerce (NRC), Rogers Park Business Alliance, Uptown Business Center, and Portage Park Chamber of Commerce.
Call for Hispanic Entrepreneurs to tell their story
The North River Commission and Albany Park Chamber of Commerce are reaching out to our business community to collect stories for their social media for Hispanic Heritage Month. If you would like to be featured, call them at 312-860-7884 or email jrivadeneira@northrivercommission.org.
Citywide Hiring Fairs
We are pleased to invite you to set up a resource table at our Citywide Hiring Fair. This event will take place over two weekends on October 21st and October 28th from 10 am – 2pm at multiple City Colleges of Chicago locations. Thousands of potential employees will be in attendance. We are seeking employers and businesses that are currently looking to fill positions with individuals of relevant work experience to participate in this hiring fair. If you have more questions or need additional information, please contact
Lanessa.Young@cityofchicago.org or Ayana.Clark@cityofchicago.org.
EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES
Full Time Job Opportunity with Benefits in Avondale
General Manager for Playbound Indoor Playground at 3501 W Belmont Ave
Manage staff, organize operations, work with families and kids. Associates Degree, experience with kids, leadership experience, English and Spanish speaking required
Please email contact@playbound.us with your qualifications and contact info!
Sprinkler Fitters Union Local 281, U.A. will be accepting applications for their Apprentice Program.
No applications will be given unless all the requirements listed are met. The application can also be found on their website by using the following link: https://www.sprinklerfitterchicago.org/news?zone=homepage&nID=18614
If you have any questions, or would like additional information, please contact Alan Crawford, Director of Training. Alan may be reached at 708-597-1800 or by email at acrawford@sftf281.org.
Citywide Hiring Fairs
We are pleased to invite you to set up a resource table at our Citywide Hiring Fair. This event will take place over two weekends on October 21st and October 28th from 10 am – 2pm at multiple City Colleges of Chicago locations. Thousands of potential employees will be in attendance. We are seeking employers and businesses that are currently looking to fill positions with individuals of relevant work experience to participate in this hiring fair. If you have more questions or need additional information, please contact
Lanessa.Young@cityofchicago.org or Ayana.Clark@cityofchicago.org.
COVID-19 RESOURCES & COMMUNITY HEALTH
Flu and Covid vaccine clinic: Nov 4, 2023 from 11am – 3pm @ Cleveland Elementary School.
Make a separate appointment for each family member. Only select quantity (1) of each vaccine per appointment. Appointment can be made by clicking here. • You may arrive anytime within the 3-4 hours between the start and end times of this event. Wait times are typically longer at the start of an event. • No government issued ID is required. Insurance will be requested. However, uninsured persons will be served free of charge. Anyone under 18 must have a parent or guardian with them to sign consent.
Chicago Department of Public Health Prepares For Rollout of New COVID-19 Vaccine
Following approval from federal health officials, the Chicago Department of Public Health is announcing its plans to make the new fall 2023 COVID-19 vaccine available to all Chicagoans age 6 months and up. In addition, CDPH is encouraging everyone 6 months and older to get an annual flu shot.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) says the updated COVID-19 vaccine targets currently circulating strains of the virus. Shipping of the new vaccines (one from Pfizer-BioNTech, one from Moderna) will begin this week, and doses are expected to be available within 5 to 12 days at clinics and pharmacies throughout Chicago. If it has been at least two months since your last COVID-19 vaccine, it is recommended you get the new vaccine right away.
This year, vaccine will continue to be available to everyone at no cost, regardless of insurance or immigration status. However, where people go to get the updated vaccine may be a little different as a result of the end of the federal public health emergency last spring and the commercialization of the vaccine.
You can receive updated information from the Department of Public Health’s website. Location information can be found by clicking this link.
Narcan and Fentanyl Test Strips Available at Our Ward Office
Our office has been certified to distribute Narcan and Fentanyl testing resources to our community. You can stop by during our open hours or reach out to info@33rdward.org for more information.
Free Asthma Services from American Lung Association
Do you know a child, adult or family member that has uncontrolled asthma? The American Lung Association in Greater Chicago has a program where a skilled healthcare professional will visit your home and provide an asthma assessment. The healthcare professional will provide health education and any materials and products needed to mitigate your asthma symptoms. Products include, but are not limited to, green cleaners, HEPA vacuum cleaners, air cleaners, beds, bed and pillow covers. More information by clicking here.
Receive Your Updated COVID-19 Vaccine At Home!
Get your whole family vaccinated at home! CDPH is offering vaccination appointments at home for up to 10 family members. Click here to set up your appointment!
Vaccinations for CPS Students:
COMMUNITY SAFETY UPDATES
My office believes that the best approach to community safety requires us all to participate in conversation together, to learn about each others’ needs and find ways to support each person. We encourage everyone to participate in the CCPSA, attend your regular beat meetings (CAPS), and your local CCPSA District Council local meetings.
Community Commission for Public Safety and Accountability
Last year, Chicagoans elected their first ever Community Commission for Public Safety and Accountability (CCPSA). The CCPSA is a city-wide elected body of three representatives from each police district. These representatives have a wide range of responsibilities that you can learn more about by clicking here.
CCPSA Announced Meeting Schedule for 2023.
Next Meeting: Thursday, October 26, 2023, 6:30 pm Malcom X College, 1900 W. Jackson Blvd
An Update from CCPSA:
We are thrilled to announce some exciting developments from the Community Commission for Public Safety and Accountability, and we wanted to ensure you are among the first to know about them!
New Interactive Yearly Calendar:
We are proud to introduce our new and improved interactive calendar, accessible through our website. One of the key features of our calendar is the inclusion of the yearly meeting calendar for both the Commission and District Councils. By simply visiting our website, you can find the dates, times, and locations of all scheduled meetings.
District Council’s Nominating Committee:
We are excited to announce that the District Council’s Nominating Committee has already begun its work. Comprised of one member from each District Council, this 22-member Committee plays a pivotal role in shaping the leadership of the permanent Commission. The Nominating Committee will have an open application process for those interested in serving on the Commission. Anyone meeting the qualifications outlined is welcome to apply for a Commission role. Commission applications will be posted on January 8, 2024. To learn more about the Nominating Committee, including information about its public meetings, please click here.
How You Get Involved:
Your voice matters, and we encourage you to take an active role in the Commission’s nomination process. By attending a District Council meeting or filling out this survey, you can provide valuable feedback to Nominators, that will help inform the Commission’s selection process. Your insights, suggestions, and ideas are essential in ensuring that our leadership represents our diverse and dynamic city. Please see the attached marketing materials and share with your networks.
COPA Civilian Academy
Begins October 23, 2023.
The Civilian Office of Police Accountability (COPA) is excited to announce COPA People’s Academy (CPA) Session II, a six-week condensed version of COPA’s Training Academy for the public (civilian or sworn) and organizations around the country.
After a successful inaugural launch of COPA’s People’s Academy in March of this year and we are thrilled to offer the session again and hope you can help spread the word. COPA People’s Academy is designed to educate residents on COPA’s processes including, the History of Civilian Oversight of Policing in Chicago, Introduction to Officer-Involved Shootings Investigations, Witness Reliability, Legal Concepts Overview, Standards of Proof, Analyzing Video, Use of Force Investigative Tools, and our Policy Research & Analyses Division (PRAD).
Registration is now open. We invite you to enroll and/or share this information with others, including your community or your office staff who you believe would be interested in how COPA functions as an agency and works to further civilian oversight here in Chicago. If you have attended a People’s Academy in the past, you are welcome to sign up again for the second session. Session II begins October 23, 2023.
To enroll in COPA People’s Academy, or to simply learn more, please visit: chicagocopa.org/cpa. If you have any additional questions, please email copa-publicaffairs@chicagocopa.org.
17th District CAPS Meetings: 17th District CAPS Webpage with schedule.
Please contact the 17th District Community Policing Office / CAPS, if there are any questions or concerns.
Email: caps.017district@chicagopolice.org Telephone: 312-742-4588
Click here for information about beat meetings.
CONSTITUENT RESOURCES
CDOT Infrastructure Improvement Map
33rd Ward Community Driven Zoning
Recycling and garbage schedule
2023 Street Sweeping schedule and interactive map
33RD WARD OFFICE INFORMATION
Address: 4747 N Sawyer Ave, Chicago, IL 60625
Office Hours: Monday – Thursday 10am – 5pm; Friday 9am – 4pm
Phone: 773-840-7880
Email: info@33rdward.org
Website and constituent resources: www.33rdward.org
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33RD WARD STAFF
Veronica Tirado-Mercado, Chief of Staff
Stacy Erenberg, Deputy Chief of Staff
Jonathan Nagy, Director of Communications and Engagement
Rebecca Rios, Director of Infrastructure and Zoning
Raul Marron, Neighborhood and Business Services Coordinator
Eric Ramos, Ward Superintendent
Elizabeth Espino, Neighborhood Services Representative
Ariana Aguilar, Neighborhood Services Representative
Charlie Billingsley III, Neighborhood Services Intern
Do you have news to share?
We are always trying to improve our communication! If you have information to share with the community, we would like to know! To submit an item for our weekly newsletter, please send an email with the event details including date, time, and location, and a brief written description. Any photos should be submitted in .JPEG format. Please submit by 5pm on Thursday.