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

September 4, 2015  
 
On this day in 1967, "Gilligan's Island" aired for the last time on CBS-TV. It ran for 98 shows.

The 47th Ward Office will CLOSE Today, September 4th at 12pm. We will re-open on Tuesday, September 8th. 
  
Dear Neighbor,

This past Tuesday, September 1st, I joined the Lycée Français community, the French Consul General, and many of our neighbors to cut the ribbon on Lycée Français de Chicago's brand-new LEED certified campus located at 1929 W. Wilson Avenue!
  
The Lycée Français proposal to build a new school campus on the old Ravenswood Hospital site was the first project to cross my desk in 2011. And after four years of working with the Lycée team and the greater Ravenswood community, the school is now open! And as promised, the play-lot and soccer field will be available for community use. Details are still being firmed up and we will keep you posted as we learn more.

In the near term, my office anticipates some traffic issues as the school fine-tunes student pick-up and drop-off procedures. Please know that we will work with the Lycée team to address issues as they arise.

There is one last piece in the puzzle to transform the old Ravenswood Hospital site: the neurological building located at 4501 N. Winchester Avenue. My office is hoping to attract proposals to convert the existing building into senior affordable housing. There is a major shortage of affordable housing for seniors in our community and I believe this building is an appropriate site for such a development. As always, my office will keep you posted on any development proposal.

And finally, I want to thank all the immediate neighbors of the Lycée Français de Chicago for their patience and support during the construction process. It isn't easy living next door to a construction site - especially a project which spans multiple years. Thank you! I also want to recognize Alain Weber, Lycée's outgoing school principal. Alain's vision made this project happen and I am honored to call Alain my friend.

Read more at DNAinfo.com

Have a fun and safe Labor Day Holiday!


Sincerely,
Ameya  

 
This Week...
German-American Fest
Property Tax Appeal workshop
47th Ward Health & Wellness Event
City Made Fest
C3 Fall Leadership Training
Harvest Moon
Elevate Energy/CUB Workshop
Senior Home Repair Program
Swedish Covenant Women's Health Center
First Time Homebuyer Class
Join RCC Board
Open House Chicago 2015
Court Advocacy Training
Lakeview Chamber News
Ravenswood ArtWalk
47th Ward A&C
NBGC Coaches Meeting
RCS Needs Reusable & Paper Bags
Join Neumann Family Services
Voluneteer with CEP for Tax Preparation
CTA Free Student Rides
School Tours & Promotions
NBGC Step Together Walk
Head Start Preschool Program
Back to School Physicals
Chicagoland Methodist Senior Services
ASNA Neighborhood Alley Sales
Clark Park Fundraiser
47th Ward Adoptables
National Puppy Mill Project
Dara Reports
Infrastructure Update
Free Meal @ Pilgrim Lutheran
Chicago Women in Trades
Community Burglary Alert
Community Events
Final Thoughts

Upcoming
Ward Nights

Wednesdays
5:00pm to 7:00pm   

DATE to be Announced

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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 

The new ward map takes full effect on May 18th. The rest of the season's street sweeping schedule is available on chicago47.org. The arterial sweeping schedule can be found here and will be updated soon.  

Fall 2015 Environmental Leadership Training Series   
The Chicago Conservation Corps is now recruiting for its Fall 2015 Environmental Leadership Training Series. During the training, you'll learn from community and environmental leaders about urban sustainability challenges and opportunities for change; then you'll lead a sustainability service project in your community with C3 support and resources.
 
To participate in the training course, you must be an adult Chicago resident and attend one of the orientations listed below.  The course will be held at the Garfield Park Conservatory on Tuesdays, September 15 through October 13, 6:00 - 9:30 p.m.   A $125 fee covers course participation and project support.  Financial assistance is available upon request.
 
Attend an orientation to learn more; visit www.naturemuseum.org/c3 or call 773-755-5100 x5039 to reserve a space.
  • Sunday, August 30, 3 to 4 p.m., Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum, 2430 N. Cannon Dr.
  • Tuesday, September 1, 6 to 7 p.m., Garfield Park Conservatory, 300 N. Central Park
  • Wednesday, September 2, noon to 1 p.m., Alliance for the Great Lakes, 150 N. Michigan Ave., #700
  • Thursday, September 3, 6 to 7 p.m., Villa Guadalupe Senior Apartments, 3201 E. 91st St.

Small Accessible Repairs for Seniors (SARFS)  
The Small Accessible Repairs for Seniors (SARFS) program provides safety, security and accessibility improvements that help senior citizens to remain in their homes. Repair types are limited to minor repairs that may include, but are not limited to:
  • Grab bars
  • Lever faucets
  • Door repairs
  • Carbon monoxide detectors
  • Smoke detectors
  • Wheelchair ramps
SARFS is for Chicago seniors who earn no more than 80 percent of the area's medium income and are at least 60 years of age. Qualified recipients may be owners or renters residing in a one- to four-unit building (a renter must have permission from the landlord and the landlord needs to certify that he or she will not increase the rent as a direct result of SARFS improvements).
Delegate agencies, under contract to the Department of Planning and Development are available to assist seniors with the following:
  • Application process
  • Make on-site assessments to determine service needs
  • Provide limited home improvements at no cost to the applicant
Residents must provide proof of age, income, and ownership, or owner/agent approval at time of application.
Income Limits
Family Size
80% Median Income*
1
$42,200
2
$48,250
3
$54,250
4
$60,300
5
$65,100
6
$69,950
7
$74,750
8 or more
$79,600

*Income limits are based on a median family income of
$71,600 for Chicago Primary Metropolitan Statistical Area.

Delegate Agencies Serving 47th Ward
Northside Community Resources (formerly RPCC)
1530 W. Morse Ave.  60626
Merita Mila 773.338.7722 ext.829
Fax: 773.338.7774
H.O.M.E.
1419 W. Carroll Ave. 60607
Michaerl Laz 773.921.3200
Fax: 312.455.1500
Chinese American Service League, Inc.
2141 S. Tan Court  60616
Ben Lau 312.791.0418
Fax 312.791.0509
Swedish Covenant Women's Health Center Serves and Inspires the Community 
Approaching its one-year anniversary, the Mayora Rosenberg Women's Health Center has served thousands of patients and continues to set a higher standard for women's wellness by providing expert, tailored care by women for women in one comfortable, convenient location.
Since October 2014, the staff at the Women's Health Center has seen nearly 10,000 patients, a number which continues to grow as the community makes health a top priority. Since the center has been in operation, more than 7,000 women have received mammograms and breast ultrasounds.
 
"It is critical that members of this community remain proactive in their approach to health care," said Mark Newton, President and CEO of Swedish Covenant Hospital. "And the Women's Health Center is designed for women to feel empowered in their health care by providing them with the expert care they need right in the community."
 
In addition, through the support of Swedish Covenant Hospital donors, the Women's Health Center is able to provide breast cancer detection services including mammograms, biopsies, MRIs and ultrasounds for women in the community who are unable to afford them. This philanthropic support helps to further remove barriers to care, and in the past 12 months, more than 1,000 women have received these potentially life-saving procedures at Swedish Covenant Hospital.
 
The state of the art Women's Health Center facility provides:
  • Breast health, bone health, nutrition, mental health, dermatology and cardiology services
  • Convenient evening and weekend appointments
  • Child care during appointments
  • Translation services in more than 180 languages
 
To learn more, please visit www.SwedishCovenant.org/womenshealthcenter or call 773.878.6888 to schedule an appointment.

Coming again to the 47th Ward the weekend of October 17-18

VOLUNTEER at the 5th Annual Open House Chicago (OHC), the largest architecture and urban exploration festival offering FREE behind-the-scenes access to 200 great places and spaces around Chicago. Help the 47th Ward introduce visitors to the coolest buildings in the Ravenswood-Lincoln Square area! Benefits include an OHC T-shirt, discount to the Chicago Architecture Foundation store and a Priority Access Pass which allows you to skip long lines during the event! For more information and to sign up visit: www.openhousechicago.org/volunteer. For more info on the event see factsheet.
   
News from Lakeview Chamber of Commerce  
 
Chicago's hottest new festival is back for its third year of Sam Adams beers, amazing tacos, crowd-pleasing music, Mexican wrestlers, and a larger and improved kids area! Whether one prefers theirs with a hard or soft shell and filled with steak, chicken, guacamole, fish or other imaginative ingredients, this September happening in the bustling Southport Corridor is a mega-hot addition to the Windy City's food fest scene. Visit http://www.LakeviewTacoFest.com for details.

 

47th Ward A&C*
*Arts & Culture 

Special Events

 

Ravenswood ArtWalk, 14th Annual, Ravenswood Ave from Grace to Lawrence
September 19-20, Saturday & Sunday 11AM to 6PM. Featuring open studios, artist market at Ravenswood & Berteau, craft beer garden, live music, food trucks & family fun.
www.ravenswoodartwalk.org

 

Lincoln Square Art Walk, 4th Annual, Bryn Mawr-Ashland-Irving Park-Kedzie
October 16-18. Friday to Sunday, 8AM to 8PM.
Juried Showcase. Individual Artists' Exhibitions at Multi-Venues, Gala Artist's Reception and Group Show/Best of Show with Prize Awards.
www.lsartguild.org/event/october-art-walk

 

Open House Chicago, 5th Annual including the 47th Ward
October 17-18, Saturday & Sunday, 9AM to 5PM.
Eight architecturally or historically significant locations in the Lincoln Square-Ravenswood area.
www.openhousechicago.org/sites/443/

 

DANK Haus, 4740 N Western Ave.
The German American Cultural Center for Chicago: check out the many diverse events that they sponsor.
http://dankhaus.com/events

 

Comedy

 

Corn Productions Cornservatory, 4210 N. Lincoln Ave.
Drink! The Sketch Comedy Drinking Game: Video Game Edition, thru October 3rd, Saturdays from 11:00PM to Midnight.
www.cornservatory.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

 

Laugh Out Loud - Coming Soon to Lincoln Avenue!
Comedy created on the spot from audience suggestions like Whose Line is it Anyway?
www.laughoutloudtheater.com

 

Theater

 

Davis Theater, 4614 N. Lincoln Ave.
Now Playing: The Transporter Refueled, A Walk in the Woods, No Escape, Trainwreck.
www.davistheater.com

 

Black Ensemble Theater, 4450 N. Clark St.
The Black White Love Play, previews begin September 27, thru November 15.
The Story of Chaz and Roger Ebert.

www.blackensembletheater.org

 

Bughouse Theater, 1910 W. Irving Park Rd.
Improv TONIGHT, limited-see web for dates, Fridays and Saturdays at 8 PM, $10.
Hogwash: An Improvised Tall Tale
, improvised children's show on Saturdays 10:30 AM, adults free, kids $10.
Improv is the New Black, starting September 18, Fridays at 8 PM.
Skull Mountain, variety show starting October 16.
Lysistrata, Classical Greek anti-war play, November 6 to 22, Fridays & Saturdays 8 PM, Sunday 2 PM.
Fowler Family Radio Hour, November Sundays 6 PM.
SaG Night: a night of laughter and variety, third Saturdays 10 PM.
Friday Night Hose Down
, improv on first Fridays 10 PM, $10.
Simmer Brown, stand up showcase, September 26 at 8 PM, $10.
CIS showcase, hosted by Chicago Improv Studio on Thursdays 8 PM, $5.
Peaches and HotSauce, live podcast on Thursdays 10 PM, $5.
Monday Open Mic, sign up at 9:30 PM, show starts at 10 PM, donation only.
www.bughousetheater.com

 

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

 

Music

 

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

 

Access Contemporary Music, 1758 W. Wilson Ave.
Showcasing exciting developments in contemporary classical music.
www.acmusic.org/attend/concerts

 

Martyrs', 3855 N. Lincoln Ave.
Small bar & live-music venue showcasing eclectic performers, with a menu of pizza & bar bites.
www.martyrslive.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

 

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.
www.silvieslounge.comSee calendar

 

CHIRP Radio
With studios near Irving and Rockwell, this independent radio station for and by Chicago's true music fans is celebrating its fifth birthday this year and later this summer you'll be able to hear it over the air as well at 107.1FM! CHIRP also hosts an array of music, arts and culture focused events throughout the year.
http://chirpradio.org

 

Visual Arts

 

Alibi Fine Art, 4426 N. Ravenswood Ave.
Iterations, Photographs by Allison Barnes, Rachel Hulin and Asia Kepka, opening reception September 12, Saturday 5:30 to 8:30 PM, thur October 31.
www.alibifineart.com

 

Chicago Mosaic School, 1806 W. Cuyler Ave.
Please visit the website below to learn more about classes and workshops the Chicago Mosaic School offers throughout the summer.
www.chicagomosaicschool.com

        
       
 
Neighborhood Boys & Girls Coaches Meeting
 
Please Join Us!
We are holding our first coaches meeting to kick off the Fall football and soccer season on Tuesday, September 8th, at 6:15 pm. 
 
We are looking for a strong group of supportive parents and adult mentors that are interested in helping the youth of NBGC achieve their goals and be a part of a successful season.
 
What does an NBGC coach do? Adults can help out by coaching in a variety of different ways. An NBGC coach doesn't have to be there for every single practice and game, instead, we are seeking individuals that want to get involved in any capacity they can. That can be showing up to help out for one practice during the week, helping out on Saturdays for their games, helping from the sidelines with subbing players in and out, and plane and simple, just keeping the kids organized.
 
As a coach, you do not have to worry about not having prior experience in coaching soccer or football, because all it takes for every kid on each team to have a great season is a team of committed mentors that want the same for the kids! For that reason, we would like all parents and friends that are interested in coaching in any of the capacities above to come out for the coaches meeting to get the season started on the right foot.
 
Tim Jensen, Athletic Director
Neighborhood Boys & Girls Club
2501 W. Irving Park Road, Chicago, IL. 60618
(773)463-4161 tjensen@nbgc.org
 
 
 

     

CTA Offering Students Free Rides on the First Day of School


 

Fifth year for popular "First Day, Free Rides" program aimed at promoting attendance

The Chicago Transit Authority (CTA) reminds parents that it will provide students with free bus and train rides on the first day of school, Tuesday, September 8, as part of Mayor Emanuel's "First Day, Free Rides" program, which is now in its fifth year.
"There's truth behind the saying, 'One good thing leads to another,'" said CTA President Dorval Carter. "It is our hope that this small incentive - of providing free bus and train rides to students and their accompany parents on the first day of school - can help set the tone for a successful academic school year for all."
As evident by the more than 28 million reduced student rides taken on CTA during the 2013-2014 academic school year, students are dependent on the CTA to get them to and from school, their after school jobs, practice or academic clubs and events. Each year, the CTA works closely with Chicago Public Schools to coordinate academic and service schedules to make sure there is an appropriate amount of service available for students along routes operating near schools throughout the school year.
Students who are enrolled in school are eligible to ride the CTA for 75 cents Monday through Friday from 5:30 a.m. - 8:30 p.m. while school is in session. This discounted rate is the result of efforts made by Mayor Emanuel and the CTA in 2013, to make transit even more affordable during the school year. Beyond school hours, elementary students ages 7-11 pay reduced fares of $1 on the bus and $1.10 on rail and for individuals ages 12 and older pay full fare.
School Tours & Promotions    
  
Lake View High School 
On Tuesday, August 25th Cubs Associates will volunteer at LVHS painting the school's new Wildcat Social Room.  We invite you to join us and turn this into a community wide service project
  
If you have volunteers who are  willing to help out for a few hours on Tuesday, please have them contact Jennifer Dedes Nowak at jdedes@cubs.com.  Complete shift details and contact info are below.
  
Help Lake View High School provide a welcoming environment for students in their new Wildcat Social Room!
Tuesday, August 25
Lake View High School
4015 North Ashland Avenue
  
Shift 1: 9:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.
Shift 2: 1:00 p.m.-4:00 p.m.

Amundsen High School
 
     
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.  
  
McPherson Elementary
   
  
North Park Elementary School Welcomes New Principal Randall Needlman !
 

 
  
St. Andrew School
 
  
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
                  
"Academic Excellence with a Heart"
4300 N. Winchester Ave.
Chicago, IL 60613







St. Benedict School
   
  
  
_____________________________________________________________________________________________

   
  
 
Neighborhood Boys & Girls Club Step Together Walk September 13
 
Students, parents, friends, families and faculty from local schools and community organizations are encouraged to join us for the NBGC's Back-to-School Walk and Fair. The 3K community stroll begins at Revere Park/NBGC Fields, continues through Horner Park and ends back at NBGC (the destination of our fun fair with refreshments and entertainment). All entrants receive a commemorative event t-shirt. Register HERE.
  
 

 
 

 
Dara Reports
 
Fight for the return of the #11 bus continues! Many people have been diligently working to restore the #11 bus. For months the 31/11 Coalition of north and south-siders have gone to the CTA Board Meetings and spoke passionately about the loss of our buses. Liza Martin, Director of the Northcenter Senior Satellite Center spoke eloquently last month at the CTA Board Meeting. Next week Lindsay Eanet of Northcenter Chamber of Commerce will speak on behalf of north-side businesses about how the elimination of the #11 has adversely affected businesses.

Would you like to join us in our fight for the return of these important routes? Upcoming meetings are September 9 & October 14, 9:30am, at CTA Headquarters 567 W. Lake St., 2nd floor. If you have a story to share send us a letter or email.
  
We want to thank all of our generous neighbors who donated school supplies. You made a difference in the lives of the clients of Common Pantry, Ravenswood Community Services and Lincoln Square Friendship Center. Neighbors helping neighbors is what our community does so very well. High school intern Charlie and St. Ben's student, James did a super job sorting the supplies.
  
Senior Luncheon; Friday, September 11 at 11:00am. Join us when we serve luncheon to 500 of our esteemed seniors. You'll be served a delicious lunch, too. Or help serve 550 of our neighborhoods esteemed seniors lunch at the German Day Event on Friday, September 11 at noon. You'll have fun and enjoy a tasty bratwurst lunch with other caring neighbors. Call Dara 773-868-4747
  
Autumn begins September 23. With each new season we should be aware of safety in our homes and in our neighborhoods. Share these tips with family and friends. Know your neighbors, join or start a Block Club or Neighborhood Group.
  
FREE, yes FREE, Rain Barrels are available to everyone who wants to disconnect their downspouts. Thanks to the 47th Ward partnership with Metropolitan Water Reclamation District & Chicago Historic Bungalow Association. You may request up to 4 rain barrels! The next helpful step you can take is to plant a rain garden for your overflow; instead of having water in your basement, alley or the street.
  
There is less open land in our neighborhood, with that comes more water with nowhere to go. Our streets are designed to hold water, then to slowly drain - but with these larger rain events there is more water than our combined system can handle. Does your alley flood? Does storm-water runoff from your garage go into the alley; does it seem that there is more water on your property than ever before?
  
Talk to your neighbors. Help one another to disconnect gutters. The more houses on your block that use rain barrels the less flooding you'll have.   Please contact Dara@chicago47.org
  
Free Business Workshops conducted by city officials, BACP's partner organizations or the experts in the industry. Workshops are located at BACP City Hall Office 121 N. LaSalle, Room 805. To register or for more information call, 312-744-5344 or email oebacp@cityofchicago.org

Montrose Metra Community Gardens are in full swing! Volunteers are needed to help with the plots that are harvested for our neighborhood food pantries. The butterfly and bee native perennial flyway is filling in and needs a volunteer to take it on. Want to get your hands in the earth, be among like-minded neighbors on beautiful days and be a part of this new community space? It's easy. Dara@chicaog47.org
  
Mark Your Calendars for two highly anticipated events:
September 26, 10am-2pm; 47th Ward Health & Wellness Event * Free Flu Shots & much more at Sulzer
October 17, 10am-1pm; Electronic, Paper, Book & Bike Recycling * Ward Yard, 5333 N. Western

St. Vincent DePaul 4040 N. Oakley, has opened their wait list. While it may be a 2 yr. wait, it is well worth getting your name on the list. 2yrs. goes by in no time... More info here.  
 
Safe Cycling Classes
Are you interested in the fun and convenience of bicycling but feel nervous about getting out on 2-wheels? Consider taking the Save Cycling Class, a 3-hour introduction to the basics of riding a bike safely in traffic, offered by the Active Transportation Alliance. Covering the rules of the road for cyclists, handling intersections, commuting tips/tricks, as well as picking out the right bike and basic maintenance, you will spend 1/5 hour in the classroom & 1.5 hours in a practice area before practicing on low-traffic streets. Classes will be held the 2nd Saturday of every month: September 12, October 10, November 14 & December 12. Click here to see the full course description.
  
Want to play or learn how to play Mah Jong? Join other like-minded women for a couple hours of bam, crack, east, dot...1pm; 2nd & 4th Friday of the month at Northcenter Senior Center.
 
The newest Forward Chicago Newsletter is now available. You may find it in various neighborhood locations including our office and Sulzer Library, among many others. Pick up some and bring them to your neighbors or a favorite local store. Forward Chicago is an all-volunteer, grass-roots non-profit that connects neighbors, businesses and local organizations to build a stronger community. Together we're creating a neighborhood where people of all ages are active, engaged and influential.
  
Back to School Shoes for Cornerstone Shelter Kids
Help us help some wonderful kids get new shoes for the upcoming school year whose families live at
Cornerstone Community Outreach Shelter. The Santa Program is starting a shoe fundraising drive for the children of Cornerstone Community Outreach so they can go and pick out a new pair of shoes for their first day of class! The more money that is raised means more kids with new shoes for the school year. How amazing will it be for a needy child to start the school year with a new pair of shoes! Click this link to make a donation today. http://santaprogram.org/shoes.html.
  
  
We are so very fortunate to have JARC right here in our ward! A non-profit organization that offers free job training! Over two million skilled manufacturing jobs will go unfilled in the next decade. Gain the skills, and get the job!
Wondering how you can get one of these high-paying jobs?
 Jane Addams Resource Corporation (JARC) offers FREE training in the manufacturing field for low-income or under/unemployed men and women, focusing on in-demand skills such as Computer Numerical Control (CNC), welding, and press brake machine operation. JARC places over 93% of its graduates in jobs starting at $12 - $15 an hour (with ample opportunities for overtime and growth)!

Want to learn more about a career in manufacturing? Come to JARC's
 application sessions every Wednesday at 9 a.m. (4432 N. Ravenswood Ave, Chicago, 2nd floor).

Have questions? Email
crystalh@jane-addams.org or call 773-751-7106.
 
Thanks to all of you who donated blankets/towels for the shelters. A car load was taken to Treehouse. Please keep them coming.
  
If you or a neighbor is a shut-in, a Hot Meal is available every Saturday afternoon from the kind volunteers at Pilgrim Lutheran Church; call Janet Taylor 773-777-4052 or Jackie Mokszycki 773-961-8740

Do you garden on a corner or parkway?
Please take a look at the list of upcoming water main projects in the 'infrastructure update' section of the newsletter. You may have to move your plants so they won't be destroyed or disappear.
  
This is the perfect time to sweep or rake you curb gutters and sewers. Clean up all of the debris that the rain washed down. Keep those drains clear.
  
Please be sure to report any drain that does not clear within 4 hours of rainfall to the 47th Ward Office or 311.
  
Please bring in your old batteries for recycling. Keep them out of the landfill.
  
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.
 
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  
 
CONCRETE UPDATE: There have been some issues with sidewalks and curbs/gutters spalling and the contractor recently removed and replaced a number of sections along the corridor as part of Phase I, which will be completed by the end of next week.  We will provide scheduling details for Phase II once these are provided by the contractor. The contractor will be working on restoring parts of the project that were affected by recent concrete work, which includes pavers and planter railings.
 
LANDSCAPING UPDATE: Plants were recently installed in the stormwater infiltration planters along the project corridor from Western to Clark.  All of the planter areas were cleaned out and replaced with new topsoil prior to planting and new sod was also installed. Landscaping continues as the dead and damaged trees, which are under warranty, are being replaced along the corridor. Supplemental waterings will also be provided. A few remaining trees and plants that were not previously available at the nursery will be planted by the middle of September. The planters are designed to sit lower than street level in order to help capture stormwater and help mitigate flooding... and excess water is diverted to the pipe underdrain system to reach the trees. Once the plants establish themselves, they will grow and fill in the planter areas.
 
PUNCH LIST ITEMS UPDATE: The stamped asphalt project to connect Claremont Plaza to Giddings Plaza will be receiving an additional treatment to show a winding path next week. Work on a new fence to shield the dumpsters in Claremont Plaza has begun and will be completed by mid-September. Remaining punch list items will be addressed shortly.

As always, pay close attention to parking restrictions.
  
Ravenswood Metra Station
  • The new station opened in early May (west side, for outbound trains)!
  • 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 11 new bridges and new station (east side, for inbound trains) is expected to start in spring 2016 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.  The middle track will also be removed as part of this project.
Water Main Replacement Damen from Irving Park to Montrose, Cullom from Lincoln to Damen and Pensacola from Lincoln to Damen
Contractors working with the Department of Water Management are replacing the water mains from 1891 under Damen from Irving Park to Montrose, Cullom from Lincoln to Damen and Pensacola from Lincoln to Damen. Contractors are currently working on Pensacola and Cullom and will move back to Damen next week. Where needed, Parking will be restricted M-F 7am to 4pm and restrictions will be staged to the greatest extent possible. For more information on this project, please click here.   
  
Water Main Replacement Paulina from Lawrence to Montrose and Sunnyside from Paulina to Ashland
Crews from the Department of Water Management are replacing the water main from 1899 under Paulina from Lawrence to Montrose and Sunnyside from Paulina to Ashland soon. No parking will be necessary from 7am to 4pm. Work on the project is completed and restoration is expected to start in the next week or so. For more information on this project, please click here.
 
Water Main Replacement Oakley from Addison to Cornelia, Claremont from Addison to School, and Roscoe from Western to Leavitt 
Crews from the Department of Water Management are replacing the water mains from 1889 under Oakley from Addison to Cornelia, Claremont from Addison to School and Roscoe from Western to Leavitt. No parking will be necessary from 7am to 4pm. After the project is sawcut and milled, no parking will be staged to the greatest extent possible. For more information on this project, please click here.
  
Water Main Replacement for: Leavitt (Sunnyside to Lawrence), Giddings (Lincoln to Leavitt), Leland (Lincoln to Leavitt), Eastwood (Lincoln to Leavitt), and Wilson (Lincoln to Hamilton)
Contractors working with the Dept. of Water Management are replacing the water mains from 1890 under the streets listed above. Concrete has been poured in the trenches on every street and restoration is underway. No parking is in effect, where needed, from 7am to 4pm M-F. For more information on this project please click here.
  
Sewer Main Replacement for Paulina from Montrose to Cullom & Cullom from Paulina to Ravenswood
Crews from the Dept. of Water Management have replaced the sewers from 1889 under Paulina from Montrose to Cullom & Cullom from Paulina to Ravenswood. Restoration is underway and will be fully completed by Labor Day. For complete information on this project, please click here
  
Water Mains Coming 2015-2016 Season:
Damen - Irving Park to Addison
Lincoln - Addison to Irving Park (Winter 2016)
Lincoln - Lawrence to Montrose (Winter 2016)
Lincoln - Addison to Belmont (Winter 2016)
Marshfield - Roscoe to School
Newport - Ravenswood to Lincoln
School - Around intersection with Marshfield

Sewer Mains Coming 2015-2016 Season
Wolcott - Lawrence to Winnemac

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. 

August 28   Friday   5:00 PM - 8:00 PM
Burger Night at American Legion Tattler Post
American Legion Tattler Post #973, 4355 N. Western Avenue

August 29   Saturday   11:00 AM - 6:00 PM

Northcenter Shop n' Stroll
Northcenter Neighborhood, Montrose-Lincoln-Western-Irving Park

September 2   Wednesday   6:00 PM - 8:00 PM

Property Tax Appeals Workshop
DANK Haus German American Cultural Center, 4740 N. Western Avenue

September 2   Wednesday   6:30 PM - 7:30 PM

Introduction to Meditation class each month at Sulzer Regional Library
Sulzer Regional Library, 4455 N. Lincoln Avenue

September 10   Thursday   1:00 PM - 2:00 PM

Understanding Medicare, talk by Blue Cross Blue Shield
Lincoln Belmont Library, 1659 W. Melrose Street

September 13   Sunday   10:00 AM - 6:00 PM

Pilgrim Lutheran Church & School Block Party
Pilgrim Lutheran Church, 4300 N Winchester Avenue

September 13   Sunday   5:30 PM - 9:30 PM

Twilight Canoe Trip & Dinner at Clark Park
Clark Park, N. Rockwell & W. Roscoe

September 14   Monday   11:30 AM - 1:00 PM

When a Mental Illness Requires Protective Care
Richard J. Daley Center, 50 West Washington Street, Courtroom 2403, 24th Floor

September 15   Tuesday   7:00 PM - 8:00 PM

CAPS Meeting - Beats 1911 & 1912
Kindred Hospital, 6th Floor, 2544 W. Montrose

September 16   Wednesday   7:00 PM - 8:00 PM

CAPS Meeting - Beats 1921 & 1922
Police Auditorium, Belmont & Western

September 19   Saturday   11:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Ravenswood ArtWalk--Saturday
Ravenswood, Grace to Lawrence, 3800-4800 N Ravenswood Avenue

September 20   Sunday   11:00 AM - 6:00 PM

Ravenswood ArtWalk--Sunday
Ravenswood, Grace to Lawrence, 3800-4800 N Ravenswood Avenue

September 22   Tuesday   7:00 PM - 8:30 PM

Learn about Home Energy Efficiency Improvements & Rebates
Sulzer Regional Library Auditorium, 4455 N. Lincoln Avenue

September 26   Saturday   10:00 AM - 2:00 PM

47th Ward Health & Wellness Event
Sulzer Regional Library Auditorium, 4455 N. Lincoln Avenue

September 29   Tuesday   7:00 PM - 8:00 PM

CAPS Meeting - Beat 2031
Anderson Pavilion, 2751 W. Winona

September 29   Tuesday   7:00 PM - 8:30 PM

Science Fiction & Fantasy Book Club: Dead Witch Walking
Sulzer Library community room, 4455 N. Lincoln Avenue

September 30   Wednesday   6:30 PM - 8:00 PM

Learn How to Become an Effective Court Advocate
19th District Community Room, 850 W. Addison
 
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.