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4243 N. Lincoln Ave. | info@chicago47.org | Office Hours: M-F 9am to 5pm 

May 1, 2015  
 
On this day in 1886, Chicago unionists, reformers, socialists, anarchists, and ordinary workers combined to make the city the center of the national movement for an eight-hour day.

Dear Neighbor,

In June of 2013, I joined 13 of my colleagues to announce the creation of the Chicago City Council Asian American Caucus. As the first Asian American and Indian American elected to Chicago City Council, I had the honor and privilege of convening a group of aldermen who represent Asian and Asian-American populations. Our first legislative effort was passing the sweat-free procurement ordinance. That ordinance helps ensure that taxpayer dollars are not being used to support sweatshop, child or slave labor.

The caucus' latest initiative is the Chicago Language Access Ordinance. It passed committee earlier this week.  The ordinance sets up a process so our direct service departments are providing information on programs and policies in commonly-spoken foreign languages. The City is also convening an advisory group to help oversee the implementation of this policy and recommend improvements to the existing language access protocols for our emergency service departments.  The ordinance also creates a working group to develop a Chicago municipal ID for all Chicagoans. The ID will not require a person to declare gender, will be available to our undocumented and homeless neighbors. To see the full text of the ordinance, please click here.

I am proud to introduce this ordinance with the Asian/Latino caucuses and Mayor Emanuel. This ordinance was made possible by community and advocacy organizations like Asian Americans Advancing Justice, Mexican American Legal Defense and Educational Fund, South Asian American Policy & Research Institute, Illinois Coalition for Immigrant and Refugee Rights, and many more.
I will keep you posted as we make progress on language access and municipal ID. 

 

Summer Festivals
With summer right around the corner, I want to share the expected calendar for our festivals, farmers markets and concert series in the 47th Ward. Be sure to mark these weekends in your calendar so you're prepared for all the summer fun in the neighborhood.

 

Kids in the Square, May 16, Saturday 10AM-2PM

Giddings Plaza, 4731 N. Lincoln Avenue

Spring children's event with activities, music and games

 

11th Annual GlobalFest, May 16, Saturday 6-11PM

St. Matthias School, 4910 N. Claremont Avenue

A celebration of world cultures 

 

Sunnyside of Lincoln-Spring Edition, May 18, Monday 6-10PM

4518-4530 N. Lincoln Avenue

Neighborhood celebration featuring Bistro Campagne, Due Lire, Homesoul and The Grafton

 

8th Annual "Down Memory Lane" Carnival, May 22, Friday to Monday 12-10PM
Lane Tech High School, 2501 W. Addison Street

Celebrating Lane Tech's history with the community 

 

17th Annual Maifest Chicago, May 28-31, Thursday & Friday 5-10PM, Saturday & Sunday 12-10PM

W. Leland between Western & Lincoln (4700 N)

A German culture celebration of the arrival of spring 

 

Lincoln Square Farmers Market Tuesday 7AM-1PM, June 2-Oct. 27

Public Parking Lot at Lincoln & Leland (2309 W)

Run by the City of Chicago 

 

Lincoln Square Farmers Market Thursday 4-8PM, June 4-Oct. 29

Public Parking Lot at Lincoln & Leland (2309 W)

Run by the Lincoln Square Ravenswood Chamber of Commerce

 

Lincoln Square Summer Concert Series Thursday 6:30-9:30 PM, June 4-Sep. 3

Giddings Plaza, 4731 N. Lincoln Avenue

Sponsored by the Lincoln Square Ravenswood Chamber of Commerce 

 

Ribfest June 12-14 Friday 5-10PM, Saturday & Sunday 12-10PM

Lincoln, Irving Park to Berteau, 4000-4164 N. Lincoln Avenue

Community festival celebrating Northcenter residents, nonprofits, merchants and restaurants

 

Welles Park Concert Series Tuesdays 6:30-8PM beginning June 16-Aug. 25

Welles Park Gazebo, 2333 W Sunnyside Avenue

Sponsored by Chicago Park District/Welles Park 

 

Shakespeare in Parks Aug. 7 & 8

Welles Park Gazebo, 2333 W Sunnyside Avenue

Sponsored by Chicago Shakespeare Theater 

 

North Center Farmers Market Saturday 7AM-1PM June 20-Oct. 24

North Center Town Square, 4100 N Damen Avenue

Run by the City of Chicago 

 

Square Roots Festival July 10-12 Friday 5-10PM, Saturday 12-10PM, Sunday 12-8PM

4400-4560 N Lincoln Avenue

Craft beer and music experience

 

Ben Fest July 17-19 Friday 4-10PM, Saturday 1-10PM, Sunday 1-7PM

Saint Benedict Church, 2215 W. Irving Park Road

Major fundraiser with live music, food and games

 

Have a great weekend! 

 

Sincerely,
Ameya  
 

This Week...
Dog Advisory
Community Alert
Property Tax Appeals OPEN for Lakeview Township
One Summer Chicago
Welcome New Business
Montrose Metra Community Garden
47th Ward Summer Internship
Roscoe Village Kidical Mass
News from the Lakeview Chamber of Commerce
Susan G. Komen Race
DFSS Spring Senior Enrichment Guide
FAiR Save the Diagonal Campaign
RCC Events: RAW, Business Networking & Greener Ravenswood
47th Ward A&C
WFCW Clean Up & Green Up
Arts and Crafts Fair & Plant Sale
NNA Community Yard Sale
C3 Leader Training
School Tours & Promotions
47th Ward Adoptables
Dara Reports
Forward Chicago
Infrastructure Update
Free Meal @ Pilgrim Lutheran
Homework Help @ Lincoln/Belmont Library
NAPO Declutter Drive Thru
Understanding Medicare
American Legion Events
Repair Cafe
All You Can Eat Pasta Dinner
Mother's Day Appreciation at Savvy Seconds and Firsts
Welles Park Craft Beer Fest
Roscoe Village Wine Stroll
Friendship Center Fundraiser
Community Events
Final Thoughts

Upcoming
Ward Nights

Wednesdays
5:00pm to 7:00pm   

May 20

Follow us on Twitter
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News from
Our Partners

On Chicago47.org
LV2 Parking Pass Information

Cubs season is in full swing. The map of the LV2 parking area can be found on our website.

 

You can come into our  office any time during normal business hours to pick up your passes.  Bring proof of residence along with your license plate & city sticker numbers.Complete information on LV2 and what you'll need to bring with you is available on our website.   

Street Sweeping 

Through May 15th, sweeping will continue under the old ward boundary schedule. We have updated our interactive street sweeping map at  chicago47.org through May 15th.  The arterial sweeping schedule can be found here. We will update the dates and new ward map schedule once we receive them from the Department of Streets and Sanitation.

Property Tax Assessment Appeals for Lake View Township

 Now until May 8th 2015 - homeowners who live in Lake View Township may appeal their property tax assessment to the Cook County Assessor's Office. Appealing your property tax assessment is an opportunity to ensure your property tax bills are fair and accurate. The most common reason to appeal is over-valuation. You may file your appeal online at CookCountyAssessor.com. Have questions about the appeal process or need assistance to file an appeal? Contact Commissioner Bridget Gainer's Office at 312-603-4210 / info@bridgetgainer.com or Commissioner John Fritchey's Office at 773-871-4000/office@fritchey.com.


Welcome New Business: Trugurt, 3308 N. Western Avenue  

 

There's a NEW Garden in Town - Montrose Metra Community Gardens 

A new community garden space is taking shape along the Metra tracks on the west side of Ravenswood
Avenue, between Montrose and Berteau: the Montrose Metra Community Gardens!

 

The space has been prepared by a group of your neighbors and community groups with a desire to make
our area a little healthier and more beautiful through hands-on engagement and urban gardening. Our
mission is to create a vibrant green community space that connects neighbors and fosters a healthy and
sustainable environment in the local area. The beds are built, the trees are planted and fences installed.
Now we need donations and gardeners!


This new green space includes a community food garden with 46 plots, each measuring 4x8 ft: 

  • (6) plots for volunteers that will benefit local pantries and charities
  • (10) plots available for local businesses and organizations (with a $150 donation for the year)
  • (30) plots available to individuals in the community (with a $75 donation for the year)

These plots will be assigned to the first 30 residents who donate $75 and to the first 10
businesses/organizations that donate $150 starting at 12 Noon on Monday, May 4. Eligible residents and
organizations must have an address in the official city boundaries of Ravenswood, North Center or
Lincoln Square.


To donate and earn the chance to rent a plot, follow these instructions: 

  • Go to our donation page on NeighborSpace on or after May 4 at 12 Noon
  • Choose an individual or business/organization plot donation by clicking the associated button
  • Complete the donation with all required details

A donation does not guarantee a plot in the garden as there is limited space. Notifications will be sent
on May 6 to update donors on if a plot was won or if they were added to the wait list. In either case, all
donations will be used to help beautify the space. We are not able to provide refunds. 

 

IMPORTANT NOTE: We strongly suggest you walk over to the garden to see the space before deciding to
try for a plot. There are steep slopes and unlevel ground that may be difficult for some individuals or
families.


If you don't want a plot but want to help this project, please consider a donation of $20, $50, $100 or
any other amount. We will be extremely thankful!


Interested in sponsorship opportunities? Contact Emma Pieper
For status updates on our many projects and garden growth, follow us on Facebook!
Have questions or want to volunteer? Email us at montrosemetragardens@gmail.com 

47th Ward Summer Internship 

Each aldermanic ward has been allocated funding for one college intern for ten weeks during the summer. The selected intern must have completed at least one semester or quarter of college during the spring of 2015 in an accredited program and must be able to show proof of Chicago residency at the time of hire. The ten week program is scheduled to start June 8, 2015 and run through August 14, 2015. Rate of pay is dependent upon grade level completed prior to June.

 

Send resumes by May 8 to: ernie@chicago47.org

Roscoe Village Kidical Mass 

The bike group will gather at 10:00am on Sunday, May 3 at the Audubon School playground (3500 N. Hoyne) for a 10:30 departure. This leisurely paced neighborhood ride will end with playtime at the new Hamlin Park Playground. Riders will enjoy snacks and drinks, balloons, bubbles and special prizes from their friends at the Hamlin Park Advisory Council. Check out their facebook page for more information. 

News from the Lakeview Chamber of Commerce

 

Lincoln Hub Construction Now Underway at Lincoln/Wellington/Southport

The Lakeview Chamber and SSA 27 started construction on the Lincoln Avenue Placemaking Project and Lincoln Hub on April 20. Your patience is appreciated during the work, which is expected to be completed around May 22. This exciting project will combine traffic calming, pedestrian improvements and public art to create a memorable focal point for the business district while bringing new energy to the street. Learn more about this project and construction impacts by clicking here.

 

Ride & Seek Lakeview: #BikeLakeview in May to Win Daily Prizes! 
Spring is a great time to #BikeLakeview, and throughout National Bike Month in May, our local bike-friendly businesses will be offering great deals and partnering with the Lakeview and Lakeview East Chambers of Commerce to give away one prize every day to people biking our neighborhood! Here's how to seek out deals and prizes by bike: 
  • Bike to Lakeview Businesses. Ride your bike to businesses participating in Lakeview's Bike-Friendly Business program (http://www.bikefriendlylakeview.com). Don't forget you can show your helmet to take advantage of bike-friendly deals, and please ride safely and courteously! You'll find a guide to Everyday Biking on the website to get you started.
  • Share Your Experience. During the month of May, post about your visits with a shout-out to the business on Instagram and/or Twitter using the hashtag #BikeLakeview for a chance to win great prizes. Post photos and share your favorite things at each business! 
  • Win Prizes! The more businesses you visit, the better chance you have of winning. No purchase necessary to win. Check out the great daily prizes at www.bikefriendlylakeview.com.

Lakeview Housing & Transportation Trends Show Need for Transit-Oriented Development (TOD)

The Lakeview Chamber of Commerce and Center for Neighborhood Technology have released a white paper analyzing Lakeview housing and transportation data and demonstrating the need for additional transit-oriented development (TOD) in Lakeview: click here to view the white paper. 

 

Of Lakeview's eight CTA stations, five now have fewer housing units within a half mile -- or 10-minute walk -- than they had in 2000. Several development projects currently in the works are leveraging Chicago's new TOD policy that could enable the neighborhood to add households that will help support local businesses.

Susan G. Komen Race for the Cure
 
Don't forget to register for the 18th Komen Chicago Race for the Cure! This amazing event is on Mother's Day -- Sunday, May 10th -- in the 4th Ward's very own Grant Park, and is an incredible way to celebrate the special women in your life. Come for the race and stay for the post-race entertainment! The Broadway cast of The Book of Mormon, Beyond Words Dance Company and Charizma will be putting on a great show! Registration is going on now, so be sure to register by clicking here!
  
DFSS Spring Senior Life Enrichment Guide NOW AVAILABLE

The Spring issue of the Chicago Department of Family and Support Service's Senior Life Enrichment Guide is now available at City Hall, at the department's regional and satellite senior centers, libraries and many other locations.  The guide describes hundreds of offerings that will enlighten and entertain seniors throughout the City during this spring season.

 

Inside, seniors will find information about health and wellness, educational, recreational and many other types of events, trips, classes and lectures, along with schedules and registration details.  Most of these are free or at a nominal cost.

 

This May is Older Americans Month, and it honors the 50th anniversary of the federal Older Americans Act with the theme "Get Into The Act".  Chicagoans are invited to visit one of the DFSS senior centers throughout the City and celebrate this visionary legislation which continues to positively impact the lives of millions of our nation's older citizens.

 

The contents of the guide are also posted online at www.cityofchicago.org/fss.  Further information about DFSS services and programs is available by calling the Aging and Disability Resource Network (ADRN) at (312) 744-4016.




 

47th Ward A&C*

*Arts & Culture 

   

Access Contemporary Music, 1758 W. Wilson Ave. 

Showcasing exciting developments in contemporary classical music
www.acmusic.org/attend/concerts   

 

Alibi Fine Art, 4426 N. Ravenswood Ave. 

Remembering Harry Callahan, thru May 23
Photographs by David Akiba, a solo show of gelatin silver diptychs. 
http://alibifineart.com

 

American Theater Company, 1909 W. Byron St. 

The Project(s), Apr. 24 thru May 24
Thursdays to Saturdays 8 PM, Saturdays & Sundays 2 PM

A documentary play about the history of public housing in Chicago based on over 100 interviews with historians, and former and current residents of Cabrini-Green, Robert Taylor Homes, Wentworth Gardens and Ida B. Wells Homes. 
www.atcweb.org

 

Baan Home in Andersonville, 5053 N. Clark St. 

Surprising Perspectives, opening reception, thru May 5
Latest photo art gallery collection by local artist Tracy Poyser. 
www.tracypoyserphotoart.com

 

Black Ensemble Theater, 4450 N. Clark St. 

Sounds So Sweet, thru May 31
Featuring the girl groups from yesterday and today. 
www.blackensembletheater.org

 

Chemically Imbalanced Comedy, 1422 W. Irving Park Rd. 

Free Open Mic every Wednesday at 9:00PM
All art forms from music and acting sketches to comedic stand up will be presented to the public from local artists. See website for improv and comedy sketches on other nights of the week. 
www.cictheater.com

 

Chicago Mosaic School, 1806 W. Cuyler Ave. 

Yolo Man and His Apocalyptic Alphabet, thru June 28, opening reception May 1 Friday 6:30-9 PM
With the Gallery of Contemporary Mosaics, works on paper & mosaics by Australian artist Pamela Irving. 
www.chicagomosaicschool.com

 

Cornelia Arts Building, 1800 W. Cornelia Ave. 

Open Studios Spring 2015, May 29, Friday 6-10 PM 
www.corneliaartsbuilding.com

 

DANK Haus, 4740 N. Western Ave. 

As the German American Cultural Center for Chicago check out the many diverse events they sponsor. 
http://dankhaus.com/events

 

Corn Productions Conservatory, 4210 N. Lincoln Ave. 

Rubbing Out Otis: A Film Noir Farce, Wednesdays to Saturdays at 8 PM thru May 26
A screwball comedy in the tradition of Clue, The Pink Panther and Noises Off. 
www.cornservatory.org

 

Davis Theater, 4614 N. Lincoln Ave. 

Now Playing: Avengers: Age of Ultron, Home, The Age of Adaline, Paul Blart Mall Cop 2 
www.davistheater.com 

 

High-Hat Club, 1920 W Irving Park Rd. 

Serving up nightly live entertainment including comedy, jazz, rock, Creole-Italian style food and fine cocktails. 
www.highhat.club/event 

 

Martyrs', 3855 N. Lincoln Ave. 

Small bar & live-music venue showcasing eclectic performers, with a menu of pizza & bar bites. 
www.martyrslive.com  

 

Old Town School of Folk Music, 4544 N. Lincoln Ave. 

Chicago's premier institution dedicated to the preservation and performance of folk and other music. 
www.oldtownschool.org/concerts   

 

The Public House Theatre, 3914 N. Clark St. 

Bye Bye Liver, Fridays & Saturdays 8 PM & 10 PM  
A series of outrageous and hilarious comedic sketches, all centered around one thing ... alcohol! 
http://pubhousetheatre.com

 

Signal Ensemble Theatre, 1802 W. Berenice Ave. 

The Drowning Girls, Apr. 30 thru Jun. 6,
Thursdays to Saturdays 8 PM & Sundays 3 PM   
A breathtaking fantasia and a social critique, full of rich images, a myriad of characters, and lyrical language www.signalensemble.com

 

Silvie's Lounge, 1902 W. Irving Park Rd. 

Enjoy a wide variety of musical genres, local talent as well as touring acts in one of the most acoustically appealing venues in Chicago. 
See calendar

   

    



      

   

 

 

 

School Tours & Promotions    

 

Amundsen High School 

Amundsen High School offers comprehensive school tours at 10 a.m. on the first Friday and the second Thursday of every month school is in session. Come learn more about Amundsen High School, its International Baccalaureate (IB) program and more great programs available at our neighborhood high school.

 

To join the tour, meet in the school office at 10 a.m. (enter through the main doors on Damen Avenue). Spring tour dates are:

  • May 14 - Thursday - 10:00 a.m.
  • June 5 - Friday - 10:00 a.m.
  • June 11 - Thursday - 10:00 a.m.

School tours are also available by appointment by contacting Erik Olson at ejolson@cps.edu

 

 

 

Brochure for Prospective Amundsen Students and Families

Amundsen High School offers a top-performing International Baccalaureate (IB) Programme, 25 varsity sports, more than 40 clubs and a thriving cultural environment where every student feels challenged and valued. Learn more about what our neighborhood high school has to offer in Amundsen's new brochure

  

Bell Elementary

Bell School had 6 teams that competed in this weekend's Illinois Future Problem Solving Bowl. Designed for grade levels 4-12, the FPSB GLOBAL ISSUES PROBLEM SOLVING (4 Person Team) component is a statewide, national, and international competitive program. Students form a team of four and prepare for the competition by researching topics that have implications for the future. FPSB teams apply a 6 step writing process to three topics annually. A future scene or imagined future story prompts students to tackle social, scientific, political, economic, or technological issues. Teams explore challenges to the future as they refine their critical and creative thinking skills; select one problem area; produce unique solution ideas; and develop an action plan to resolve their specific problem. Students then present a 5 minute skit to "sell" their solution to an audience of their peers.

 

This year's state topic was Human Potential. The key verb phrase to address for this topic was :

How might we increase the use of enhancements safely for the purpose of reaching human potential in the United States in the year 2055. 

 

In the Middle Division for the Orals Presentation, the team of David Hernandez, Avery Kaplan, Nate Svoboda, and Ryan Trotter, placed 6th. 

The team of Lily Blaustein, Abigail Hardin, Lauren Kim, and Pooja Patel placed 3rd, and the team of Sam Blin, Albert Lee, Kate Sawin, and Olivia Tavas placed 2nd. 

 

In the Junior Division for the written packet, the Global FPS team of Jacob Daut, Josh Lazar, Miranda Ludwig, and Alex Ursu, came in 2nd place bringing home a trophy and are now advancing to the International FPS competition. 

 

In the Individual FPS Middle Division, Lauren Kim placed first and will also advance to the International FPS Competition. The International FPS Conference is being held at Iowa State University on June 11-14. 

 

Former Bell Students Isabel Diersen and Catherine Johnson, currently students at Walter Payton High School, and Maddie Lubeck, a resident of North Center Community and currently a student at Jones College Prep will also advance to the International FPS Conference. All three students will compete in the senior division of the Individual FPS competition.  

 

 

Ravenswood Elementary

 

Ravenswood Elementary School Tour Dates

 

Ravenswood Elementary School offers monthly tours and has added additional April and May tours to accommodate families making lottery decisions. Tours scheduled for the remainder of the school year include:   

 

Tuesday, May 12

Tuesday, May 26

Tuesday, June 9

 

All tours begin at 9:00 a.m.

 

Tours are led by Ravenswood parents knowledgeable about the school curriculum and activities. Visitors have the opportunity to see facilities, observe classrooms in action, ask questions and experience our school community firsthand. After the tour, the principal or assistant principal will join the group for an open question-and-answer session.

 

Reservations are not necessary. To join the tour, enter the school through the main (center) entry doors on Paulina Street. Sign in at the security desk and proceed down the hall to Multi-Purpose Room.

 

Tuition-based Preschool at Ravenswood Elementary School

 

A few 2015-2016 spots are still available!

Ravenswood School is home to a top-notch preschool program designed for working parents and other families looking for a play-based, high-quality pre-kindergarten experience for their children.

 

Who: Children who turned three- or four-years-old by September 1, 2015 and are potty-trained.

When: Full-days, Monday through Friday during the school year; children can be dropped off as early as 8 a.m. and picked up as late as 6 p.m.

Where: Ravenswood Elementary School - 4332 North Paulina Street (at Montrose Avenue)

 

Come see for yourself!

Ravenswood offers comprehensive school tours at 9 a.m. Tours scheduled for the remainder of the school year include: Tuesday, May 12 and Tuesday, June 9. Tours are led by Ravenswood parents knowledgeable about the school curriculum and activities. Visitors have the opportunity to see facilities, observe classrooms in action, ask questions and experience our school community firsthand. After the tour, the principal or assistant principal will join the group for an open question-and-answer session.

 

Reservations are not necessary. To join the tour, enter the school through the main (center) entry doors on Paulina Street. Sign in at the security desk and proceed down the hall to Multi-Purpose Room.

 

 

McPherson Elementary

 

   

 

 

Pilgrim Lutheran Church & School

 

 

Academic Excellence...

Pilgrim uses a "whole child" approach, focusing on academic, spiritual, emotional, social, and physical development. Pilgrim prides itself on a play-based preschool and kindergarten, high test scores and our graduates, 95% of whom attend competitive high school programs.

 

...With a Heart

Faith development is an integral part of the growth process and enables students to achieve success and a positive place for themselves in society.

 

Want to Learn More? Pilgrim hosts school tours every Tuesday at 10amFor More Information or to register for one of our open houses or to schedule a one-on-one tour call us at 773.477.4824

Or visit www.pilgrimchurchandschool.org 

                  

"Academic Excellence with a Heart"

4300 N. Winchester Ave.

Chicago, IL 60613








St. Benedict School

  

  

 


   


Dara Reports

 

Utility-related issues, telecommunications complaints, identity theft and fraud all made Illinois Attorney General Lisa Madigan's top 10-list of consumer concerns. With new scams creeping up every day, read CUB's list of cons and rip-offs, so you can protect yourself.


Ravenswood United Church of Christ is looking for Sunday Morning Nursery helper. This is wonderful part-time job for you, if you have experience with and love children. Learn more at www.ravenswooducc.org . Send a letter and resume to Pastor Jason Coulter at info@ravenswooducc.org  or call 773-549-5472.


Congrats to Sweet Sensations baker Sandy Hunter for her appearance on Food Network's "Spring Baking Championship". We know all about the tasty treats Sandy and owner, Sharin Nathan create! Now the word is out. DNA had a well-written report on her appearance.

Friendship Pet Food Pantry is looking for volunteers during the pet food distribution; 3-5pm,the 3rd Friday of the month. Learn more here.

Our neighbors on the western boundary of the ward, the Riverbank Neighbors, are improving the gardens and path along the river for all of us. Want to share in the same joy as our neighbor Tom?

 

Come out to lend a hand. Sunday, May 17, 10-12:30. Bring the kids; I guarantee they'll love it.


Please be sure to report any drain that does not clear within 12 hours of rainfall to the 47th Ward Office or 311.

Water Conservation Workshop: Sunday, May 2, 10-11am; Luther Memorial Church 2500 W. Wilson           Learn about water conservation and be eligible for a raffle which will include aerators, low-flow shower heads and a rain barrel. For more information contact: Andres at  vivafrente@netzero.net 

 

If there is a dog in your life stay informed about the new strain of dog flu.  

 

Rats are out enjoying our spring weather. Never want to see one near your home again? To learn more about Cats at Work, start here.

 

Please bring in your old batteries for recycling. Keep them out of the landfill.

 

What month does your city sticker expire? All of them used to expire at the end of June; which is no longer the case. Your renewal form should come in the mail. Just in case: please put a reminder in your calendar. Let's all avoid getting a ticket and socked with a late fee.

 

Don't have a use for your old cell phones? Drop them off at the alderman's office. We collect year round for Cell Phones for Soldiers. There couldn't be an easier way to help our soldiers stay in touch with family & friends.

We have six months of sponsorships for recycling buckets, thanks to generous neighbors. We only need six more to have a whole year of battery recycling available. If you, a group of neighbors or local business would like to sponsor a month for $70, please contact Andres, a neighbor who is a C3 volunteer. Email Andres at: vivaelfrente@netzero.net  

 

Forward Chicago, a grass-roots, all volunteer, non-profit brings active, involved, engaged folks together. Whether you enjoy walking in the neighborhood, are looking for a Book Club, into handcrafts, ready to learn or already play bridge, relish going to new restaurants for lunch or dinner or have another idea you'd like to bring to life, join us. www.forwardchicago.org  

 

CAPS Meetings! Why should you attend? Learn how to be proactive in preventing crime, have your concerns heard. http://chicago47.org/beat-meetings/  

 

You may attend any CAPS Meeting in your district (south of Lawrence is #19; north of Lawrence is #20).

 

Ongoing Collections:pet food for Friendship Pet Food Pantry,blankets and towels are always needed for clean bedding at area pet shelters. Used games for Sulzer Library's Game Night, unwanted CD's can become part of an art project. Artists and teachers need them. Bring these to the alderman's office.

      

47th Ward Infrastructure Update 

Check out the infrastructure map on our website. 

 

Lawrence Avenue Streetscape  

  • New benches and trash cans were installed along the corridor and the vaulted sidewalk work has been completed in front of 1742.
  • Landscaping work will be performed along the rest of the project this spring. Planters will be dug out and new topsoil will be added before plants/trees are planted. Dead trees will also be replaced.
  • The new traffic signal controller at Damen will be installed in mid-May and remaining electrical work is expected to be completed by the end of May.
  • Gateway poles will go up in mid-May and neighborhood identifiers and banner arms are already in place.
  • Work on Claremont Plaza will begin shortly, which includes a new fence to shield the dumpsters and new stamped asphalt.
  • CDOT will soon be meeting with the contractor to discuss issues with concrete spalling along sidewalks and curbs/gutters in spots along the stretch. We will provide additional information on replacement timelines when they become available.
  • Remaining punch list items will be addressed this summer.  The expected completion date for the entire streetscape project is early July.
 

As always, pay close attention to parking restrictions.

 

Sewer Main Replacement for Paulina from Montrose to Cullom & Cullom from Paulina to Ravenswood

Crews from the Dept. of Water Management will be replacing the sewers from 1889 under Paulina from Montrose to Cullom & Cullom from Paulina to Ravenswood starting in June. This work will require a parking restrictions and a full street closure from 7am to 4pm Monday through Friday. There will also be a full closure of Montrose at Paulina for four days during this work. For complete information on this project, please click here

 

Water Main Replacement for Western from Roscoe to Addison

Crews from the Dept. of Water Management have replaced the water main from 1912 under Western from Roscoe to Addison. Crews are continuing their work from Barry to Nelson. Full restoration will take place as part of the Western viaduct removal project slated to begin this summer and last 18-24 months. Be aware of increased traffic in the area, and avoid travel in the area, if possible.

 

Water Main Replacement for Rockwell from Irving Park to Berteau

Contractors working with the Dept. of Water Management have replaced the water main from 1909 under Rockwell from Irving Park to Berteau. Staged parking restrictions and partial road closures will be necessary during working hours. Concrete has been poured in most of the trench today.  Crews will return next week to complete the concrete restoration. Once the concrete has cured, crews will remove the barricades and activity will end until full restoration comes once temperatures allowed later this Spring this work should be completed next week.  For more information on this project, please click here.  

 

Water Main Replacement for Berteau from Damen to Bell

Contractors working with the Dept. of Water Management have replaced the water main from 1894 under Berteau Avenue between Damen and Bell. Parking restrictions and road closures should no longer be needed.  Crews have poured concrete in the trench pending full asphalt restoration in the spring as soon as weather allows.  For more information on this project, please click here

 

Water Main Replacement for Rockwell from Lawrence to Montrose & Eastwood from Virginia to Western

Contractors working with the Dept. of Water Management have replaced the water mains from 1906 under Rockwell from Lawrence to Montrose and Eastwood from Virginia to Western.  Work is now complete with resurfacing and landscape restoration following in Spring 2015. For more information on this project, please click here.

 

Water Main Replacement for Seeley from Montrose to Wilson

Contractors working with the Dept. of Water Management have replaced the water main from 1890 under Seeley from Montrose to Wilson. The trenches are backfilled with concrete. Street resurfacing to be completed in Spring 2015.  For more information on this project, please click here

 

Water Main Replacement for Leavitt from Grace to Irving Park

Contractors working with the Dept. of Water Management are replacing the water main from 1896 under Leavitt between Grace and Irving Park. Final connections are complete and the trench is capped.  Street resurfacing to follow in the Spring of 2015.  For more information on this project, please click here.   

 

Water Mains Coming Soon:

TBD 

   

METRA Traffic Closures and Detours Around Ravenswood Avenue 

  •  Union Pacific expects to finish up their track work shortly so that Metra can open the new Ravenswood Metra Station in early May.  We will share specific dates as soon as these are provided to our office.
  • METRA Phase II: Design and engineering work is currently being performed for improvements to the east side of the tracks and will be put out to bid once complete. Construction of the bridges and new station is expected to start in the fall and will last approximately 18 months. Work on the east side will move faster than on the west side since the track is currently in place there and extensive retaining wall work is not necessary.
     

For more information, visit the infrastructure section of our website or contact Jim Poole at jim@chicago47.org or 773-549-4462.  

 

      

            

  

 
   
    

 
  
    
Community Events 
For details on the events listed below, please see the events section of our website. 

 

May 1   Friday   5:30 PM - 8:30 PM

AIA Chicago Small Projects Awards & Exhibit

Architectural Artifacts atrium, 4325 N. Ravenswood Avenue

 

May 1   Friday   6:30 PM - 9:00 PM

Yolo Man and His Apocalyptic Alphabet, opening reception of works on paper & mosaics

The Chicago Mosaic School, 1806 W. Cuyler Avenue, 2nd Floor

 

May 2   Saturday   9:00 AM - 1:30 PM

CPS Parent Conference, Planting the Seed-Growing as Parent Leaders

Whitney Young High School, 211 S Laflin Street

 

May 2   Saturday   9:00 AM - 2:00 PM

WFCW Clean & Green Event with Hands on Exhibits (Rescheduled from April 25)

Glenwood & Winnemac, 1400 W Winnemac Avenue

 

May 2   Saturday   10:00 AM - 2:00 PM

De-Clutter Drive Thru--Get Rid of Un-Needed Items!

MB Financial Bank parking lot, 3959 N. Lincoln Avenue

 

May 2   Saturday   10:00 AM - 5:00 PM

Northtown Garden Society Arts & Craft Fair & Plant Sale

Warren Park Fieldhouse, 6601 N Western Avenue

 

May 4   Monday   6:30 PM - 7:30 PM

Free Intro. to Meditation at Sulzer Library

Sulzer Regional Library Auditorium, 4455 N. Lincoln Avenue

 

May 5   Tuesday   11:30 AM - 1:00 PM

Safeguarding your Savings: Avoid Financial Exploitation

Richard J. Daley Center, 50 W. Washington - Courtroom 2005 (20th Floor)

 

May 6   Wednesday   11:00 AM - 12:00 PM

Understanding Medicare, talk by Blue Cross Blue Shield

Lincoln Belmont Library, 1659 W. Melrose Street

 

May 7   Thursday   6:30 PM - 8:00 PM

Tales of Spain, Amundsen High School free concert

Amundsen High School, 5110 N. Damen Avenue

 

May 9   Saturday   10:00 AM - 12:30 PM

47th Ward Repair Cafe

Lincoln Square Friendship Center, 2733 W. Lawrence Avenue

 

May 9   Saturday   6:00 PM - 9:00 PM

All-You-Can-Eat Mostaccioli Dinner benefitting the Scouts

Queen of Angels Parish, lower church, 2330 W. Sunnyside Avenue

 

May 10   Sunday   8:00 AM - 10:00 AM

Susan G. Komen Chicago's Race for the Cure

Grant Park, Butler Field, 100 S. Lake Shore Drive

 

May 15   Friday   3:00 PM - 5:00 PM

Pet Food Distribution at Friendship Pet Food Pantry

Lincoln Square Friendship Center, 2733 W. Lawrence Avenue

 

May 16   Saturday   2:00 PM - 3:30 PM

Forgotten Chicago: Unbuilt Uptown and Beyond

Bezazian Library, 1226 W. Ainslie Street

 

May 16   Saturday   6:00 PM - 10:00 PM

St. Matthias' GlobalFest, annual cultural celebration

St. Matthias School, 4910 N. Claremont Avenue

 

May 17   Sunday   3:00 PM - 6:00 PM

Andersonville Wine Walk

Clark, Lawrence to Olive, 4800-5700 N Clark Street

 

May 19   Tuesday   11:30 AM - 1:00 PM

Real Estate Fraud Prevention

Richard J. Daley Center, 50 W. Washington - Courtroom 2005 (20th Floor)

 

May 19   Tuesday   7:00 PM - 8:00 PM

CAPS Meeting - Beats 1911 & 1912

Kindred Hospital, 6th Floor, 2544 W. Montrose

 

May 20   Wednesday   5:00 PM - 7:00 PM

WARD NIGHT with Alderman Pawar--May 20

47th Ward Alderman's Office, 4243 N. Lincoln Avenue

 

May 20   Wednesday   7:00 PM - 8:00 PM

CAPS Meeting - Beats 1921 & 1922

 

May 20   Wednesday   7:00 PM - 8:00 PM

Alzheimer's Research: Get Informed, Get Involved

Japanese American Service Committee, 4427 N. Clark Street

 

May 23   Saturday   9:00 AM - 1:00 PM

Plant Trees in Clark Park Woods

Clark Park Woods, "The Garden" bike track, 3400 N. Rockwell Street

 

May 23   Saturday   1:00 PM - 5:00 PM

Craft Beer Fest at Welles Park

Welles Park, 2333 W. Sunnyside Avenue

 

May 26   Tuesday   7:00 PM - 8:00 PM

CAPS Meeting - Beat 2031

Anderson Pavilion, 2751 W. Winona

 

May 27   Wednesday   7:00 PM - 8:00 PM

CAPS Meeting - Beat 2032

 

May 28   Thursday   6:00 PM - 9:00 PM

Roscoe Village Wine Stroll

Roscoe Village Chamber of Commerce, 3201 N Wolcott Avenue
 

Want to put your community event in our newsletter?  Check the guidelines on our website

 

CAPS Meetings.  If you would like to get to participate in community policing or express concerns about crime happening in your area, please consider attending your beat meetings.  A schedule of beat meetings is available on our website.   If you have any questions about CAPS or need additional information, please contact Jim Poole at 773-549-4462 or jim@chicago47.org.  

19th District CAPS Office (All areas of the 47th Ward south of Lawrence)
312-744-0064 or CAPS019District@chicagopolice.org.

20th District CAPS Office (All areas of the 47th Ward north of Lawrence)
312-742-8770 or CAPS020District@chicagopolice.org.
Final Thoughts
Have a suggestion or comment for Ameya or the 47th Ward Team?  Please contact us at 773-868-4747 or info@chicago47.org.