Dear 33rd Ward Community,
This morning City Council held a historic vote to pass the One Fair Wage Ordinance. I was proud to vote “yes” to support this ordinance because I know that a fair wage for all workers in our communities is necessary to create the stability and predictability our working families need to stay in our community and invest in our local businesses.
I am also proud to announce updates on several investments across our ward. Yesterday afternoon I paid a visit to the construction site for the new turf field at Theodore Roosevelt High School. 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’s students putting it to good use. Soon we will celebrate this much needed new facility for our neighborhood High School and they will have their first home game in 100 years!
This week we joined the North River Commission for an open-house tour of four park improvements in the neighborhood at Ronan, River, Kiwanis, and Legion park. We are also excited to announce the ordinance to acquire TIF funds to expand Ronan Park successfully moved through City Council this week. We look forward to celebrating this project when it’s complete and to enjoying all of the new park improvements in our ward. If you would like to help our office make decisions about future ward improvements and imagine how we can spend our annual infrastructure improvement budget, please join us at our regular Participatory Budgeting meetings. You can find more information below in our newsletter. This year our committee has moved beyond the idea collection phase and will begin compiling a list of projects to share with you all. Please stay tuned for updates!
Finally, I want to announce the beginning of our annual Halloween Decoration Contest. We invite you to submit your decorations for a chance to win prizes for you and your family. You can click here to 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. Deadlines for submissions is Friday, October 20th at 12pm. You can find more information about applying by clicking here and reading our submission form. We look forward to seeing your decorations!
Photo of the turf field installation at Roosevelt School:
-Rossana
33rd Ward Alderwoman
Please note: In observance of Indigenous Peoples Day, the 33rd Ward office will be closed on Monday, October 9th. We will resume regular operating hours on Tuesday, October 10th. If you are in need of immediate assistance please call 311, or 911 if there is an emergency.
Our office will also be closed Friday, October 13th for a staff development day. We will resume regular operating hours on Monday, October 16th.
Additionally, the Department of Streets and Sanitation will be closed Monday, October 9th. Residents should make sure that their garbage carts are accessible throughout the week Tuesday-Friday as pick up will shift due to the holiday. Recycling carts should be accessible Tuesday-Saturday if you have a pick up date next week, as LRS will also be working Saturday.
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 – Will not meet this week
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 12 from 4:30pm – 6:00pm at Roosevelt High School (see below for entrance details)
Upcoming: October 19th
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*
CONSTITUENT RESOURCES
CDOT Infrastructure Improvement Map
33rd Ward Community Driven Zoning
Recycling and garbage schedule
2023 Street Sweeping schedule and interactive map
COMMITTEE CORNER
City Council met twice this week to handle business related to the following ordinances:
- 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
Free Libraries: I want to address an ordinance that was introduced by Ald. Lopez regarding restrictions to “Free Libraries” that is intended to require permits for any existing or future libraries. 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
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
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!
Center for Changing Lives September workshops & events
This message serves as a notice of our upcoming workshops and events for the month of September; we would greatly appreciate your assistance in helping us spread the word. Our workshops are all bilingual, free, and open to the public. We encourage folks to visit our Linktree to RSVP and learn more.
- 9/6/23 – Business Plan Support: Monthly event dedicated to answering your business plan questions.
- 9/7/23 – Expanding Democracy in the Workplace: Starting a Worker Co-Op
- 9/9/23 – Mi Casa Su Casa: First-time Homebuyer Education Workshop
- 9/14/23 – Resume Writing Workshop
- 9/20/23 – Small Business Grant Support
- 9/26/23 – Cover Letter Writing Workshop
- 9/26/23 – Lending Basics: Introduction to Mortgage Lending
- 9/27/23 – Workforce Speaker Series: Emotional Self-Intelligence
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.
River Park Summer Event Calendar
Horner Park Advisory Council Summer Concert Series.
Find the schedule here.
FEEDING CATS? SEEING CATS NEAR YOU? OR JUST WANT TO LEARN MORE?
Log in to this free community Zoom workshop from Cats in Action.
Helping Cats Near You
The 4th Sunday of every month
4pm – 6pm
Details here: www.catsinaction.org/workshops
Zoom Meeting ID:
868 5394 9492
Learn how to help community cats through TNR (Trap-Neuter-Return), what to do with kittens, ongoing colony management, preventing nuisance issues and much more!
YOUTH OPPORTUNITIES
High School Fair
Date: Thursday, October 12 from 4:30 – 6:00pm
Location: Murphy Elementary School, 3539 W Grace St
The fair is open to all 7th and 8th graders and their families. The fair provides a valuable opportunity for students and parents to explore high school options in CPS, as well as, private schools. Students and parents will be able to meet with high school representatives to ask questions and obtain information about the programs offered at their schools.
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.
Financial Education Program for Small Business Owners
Applications Due by October 6, 2023
The Office of Chicago City Treasurer Melissa Conyears-Ervin (CTO), in partnership with Goldman Sachs, is proud to announce the start of the application window for Goldman Sachs “10,000 Small Businesses,” a 13-week financial education program for small business owners offered at no cost that provides growth-oriented entrepreneurs business education, access to capital, and support services.
Throughout the program, participants acquire practical skills on topics such as financial statements, negotiations, and marketing, enabling them to advance their businesses. With the guidance of advisors and a community of like-minded entrepreneurs, participants craft proven, actionable growth plans for their businesses.
To qualify, applicants must meet these four criteria:
- Small business owner or small business co-owner.
- Business in operation for at least two years.
- Business revenues over $75,000 in the most recent fiscal year.
- Minimum of two employees (including the owner).
Participants in the program, at a minimum, will be asked to attend a program orientation, complete 11 convenient learning sessions, take part in out-of-class activities, including completing assignments, attending networking events and business support clinics with business leaders—approximately 8 – 10 hours per week, and create a business growth plan.
The application period for the January 2024 program—which runs through April 2024—lasts from today through October 6, 2023. Applications for the May 2024 program are due in January. Goldman Sachs is accepting applications on a rolling basis. Interested small business owners or co-owners can apply here: https://onegs.co1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_9NR7AulWvIjMwrI.
As always, if you have any questions or seek further information about this program, please do not hesitate to contact me or Zach Martin (cc’d here) directly, or visit: https://10ksbapply.com/.
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!
Chicago Public Schools is hosting a CPS Job Fair
We want to encourage members of the community to apply for positions within CPS.
Date: Wednesday, October 12, 2023
Time: 10:00am – 1:00pm
Location: Truman College, 1145 West Wilson, Chicago, IL 60640
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.
CTA Workforce Outreach Event
TUESDAY, OCTOBER 10, 2023 • 10am – 1pm
Doors open at 9:45; presentation starts 10:15
Gately Park, Dr. Conrad Worrill Track & Field Center
10201 S. Cottage Grove Ave., Chicago, IL, 60628
Take the following transit routes To Gately Park: Bus: #106 #115 #4 • Parking Available on Site
As workforce needs continue to grow in the construction industry, CTA invites you to join us at our upcoming workforce outreach event at Gately Park. Here you can learn more about the resources for career seekers and opportunities with contractors and subcontractors working on projects throughout the region, including CTA contracts. You can also engage with workforce agencies and representatives from various building trade unions.
Learn About Upcoming Contracting Opportunities with CTA!
Join us as we share information about projects to upgrade the Chicago Transit Authority’s infrastructure. Learn how your firm can partner on these projects to keep Chicago moving as you meet with potential prime contractors. Doors open at 9:45 am. Presentation starts at 10:15 am.
Date: Thursday, October 5, 2023
Time: 10am – 12pm
Location: Gately Park, 10201 S Cottage Grove, Chicago, IL 60628
Free parking available in lot
Register by clicking here or with the link on the attached flyer.
CTA Second Chance Program
CTA’s Find a Job Fridays
If you’re looking for work, consider giving the Chicago Transit Authority (CTA) a look. The CTA is in the midst of a major recruitment campaign. Visit the CTA’s careers website to learn more. New jobs are posted every Friday.
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
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: The 17th District has resumed beat meetings in-person.
Information about Beat Meetings here.
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
The Village and Ravenswood Manor-Albany Park Circle hosting a Zoom with 17th Police District Council on Thursday, August 30. The 3 elected members are confirmed to participate.
On Thursday, August 30th at 7 pm, the Village and Ravenswood Manor-Albany Park Circle will host a Zoom meeting with 17th District Police Councilors Anthony Tamez, Elizabeth Rochford and Steve Spagnolo. Contact Karen, kegerer@comcast.net, for the Zoom link and with any questions you have for our three 17th District Police Council Members.
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
Follow us on Facebook and Twitter
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.