Kelly's Update

Another busy week. While political events dominated the news, we continued to work on projects in the district, prepping for upcoming neighborhood fests, planning for back-to-school events, and meeting with advocates about their priorities for the Veto Session. 

There was an informational session this week to update communities on the various security plans and closures related to the upcoming Democratic National Convention. More information about things that might impact your travels that week can be found below in the next section.

It feels like we’re already at the end of summer, but there’s so much to look forward to. With the State Fair coming up, there are a bunch of exciting performers coming. From there, we’ll roll right into the Glenwood Avenue Arts Fest with the Democratic National Convention right after. I’m exhausted just thinking about it, but it promises to be as much fun as it is draining. I’ll keep telling myself that…

Between other commitments and losing a couple of weeks to COVID-19, I haven’t been to the Glenwood Sunday Market in a bit, so I’m excited to get out there tomorrow - as much to catch up with friends and neighbors as to buy fruits and veggies!

Have a great weekend y’all. It’s the best part of the year in Chicago!

The Democratic National Convention (DNC) is coming to Chicago next month from August 19th to the 22nd. This historic event will necessitate added security city-wide and will result in significant traffic disruptions near convention zones. In preparation for the changes to the day-to-day life of Chicagoans, The Mayor's Office of Community Engagement has released perimeter maps for both McCormick Place and the United Center, which is where the DNC conventions will be held. Additionally, the Mayor's Office recommends opting into DNC alerts through the Office of Emergency Management and Communications (OEMC) App to receive convention updates right to your device. And, as always, if you see suspicious activity during this period, please call 911.

To learn more about the convention and how it may impact you, click on this LINK or scan the QR code above.

The Illinois Department of Human Services (IDHS) and the Illinois State Board of Education (ISBE) are partnering to implement the Summer EBT Program. Families will receive a one-time benefit of $120 for each eligible child. Benefits are distributed on an electronic benefit transfer (EBT) card and can be used at authorized retail locations, including some farmers’ markets.

There is an August 31st deadline to apply for the program, and some students will automatically be enrolled in the program. You can now check HERE to see if your student is enrolled, or if you will need to apply.

For more information on the program check out wegotyouillinois.org

Our office is partnering with Cook County Board of Review Commissioner Samantha Steele (District 2), the Rogers Park Branch of the Chicago Public Library, and local elected officials on a 2024 Rogers Park Township Property Tax Appeal Workshop. The workshop will take place on Monday, August 5th starting at 5:30 pm in the Rogers Park Branch Library at 6907 N Clark St. 

Attendees may arrive at 5:30 pm to meet with an analyst to answer questions and file an appeal. A brief presentation by Commissioner Steele's team will begin at 6 pm to inform attendees of the appeal process. Analysts will then continue to be available to assist with filing an appeal. Please have your property tax bill and/or Property Index Number (PIN) available. 

You may obtain your Property Index Number here.

Pre-registration for the workshop is not required but is appreciated. You may access the pre-registration online form here.

You may contact the office of Commissioner Samantha Steele at 312-603-5542 if you have any questions regarding your property information in preparation for the workshop. 

Did you know that 85% of Chicago Public Schools require their students to wear school uniforms? CPS will provide low & no-income families with one free uniform, however, no program exists to supplement a child’s one free uniform so that they can come to school in clean, fresh clothing every day of the week. 

Help students experiencing homelessness & housing insecurity come to class feeling comfortable, confident & ready to learn by taking part in Housing Opportunities for Women back to school clothing and backpack drive!

A donation of 25 dollars will provide students with socks for the school year, 50 dollars can provide a 5 pack of polo shirts, and 100 can provide a weeks worth of uniform bottoms. Donations are accepted from July 8th through August 15th.

To donate and to learn more about this program, please visit this LINK.

Neighborhood Shoutout

Lifeline Theater Save Our Stage "S.O.S" Donation Campaign

Since 2020, Lifeline Theatre has faced rising expenses due to inflation and their commitment to pay equity. Despite their 42-year history of excellence, these costs have resulted in a deficit budget. Their Spring Benefit gave them a strong start, but they need to meet a larger fundraising goal to launch their new season. They now turn to our community to help us reach $200,000, ensuring they can manage inflation, to pay their staff and artists fairly, and secure their future.

To donate to Lifeline, click HERE.

To learn more about Lifeline Theater and their S.O.S campaign, click HERE.

Athena Board Game Cafe to Reopen

Exciting news for board game enthusiasts! Athena Board Game Cafe will be reopening in a new location, 1412 W Lunt, this fall! The cafe has moved from its previous location on Howard street to it's new home where they hope to be a gathering place for the neighborhood and will continue to offer the same services as they did at their old location. Inspired by a trip to a board game cafe in London, owner Patricia Gonzalez opened up the original Athena in March of 2020 where customers could enjoy classic games like Battleship or Guess Who? while more experienced players took on games like Splendor, Ticket to Ride and Settlers of Catan.

While there is no opening date set just yet you can follow them at their website, Facebook, and Instagram!

In the District

Events in Rogers Park

On Saturday, July 27th, 2024 at Rhapsody Theater (1328 W Morse Ave), Whatever Spectrum Media Collective will premiere their new short film, The Show!

The film is a short meditative comedy about teen outsiders from a Chicago Public High School who are brought together by classmate and artist, Rachel! The film celebrates the joyful and weird in-between spaces that queer, black, brown, and immigrant students create in a broken school system. It was developed as a collaboration between Chicago Public School Students (most from Sullivan High School in Rogers Park), educators, and filmmakers - with youth both in front of and behind the camera. 

It is free to attend, but you must reserve a ticket here to ensure you have a seat.

Theatre Above the Law is hosting its 3rd annual summer carnival fundraiser in Jarvis Square (1508 W Jarvis) on July 28th from 12PM-4PM. The event is FREE and welcomes all ages to attend! There will be games, prizes and so much more! All proceeds from the event go towards funding Theatre Above the Law's 9th Season.

If you are not able to attend, the theatre asks that you consider donating to them by visiting theatreatl.org and be sure to learn more about them there too!

Enjoy some live music and refreshments along Sheridan Rd for this year’s Summer on the Plaza! In partnership with the Regional Transportation Authority (RTA), local bands will perform at the CTA Loyola Station Plaza from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. on Friday August 2, Friday September 6, and Friday October 4. Mark your calendars and join in on this free community event!

Join Alderwoman Hadden for Community Softball and Kickball games at Willye B. White Park (1610 W Howard St)! No registration is required and everyone is welcome to play. Just bring yourself, your family and friends! Not sure if you want to play? Come out to cheer on your neighbors!

The next community game is on Saturday, August 3rd!

Loyola University is hosting a virtual community meeting on Tuesday August 6th at 6pm to present its comprehensive community plan. This meeting is being offered as an effort by Loyola to foster communication and collaboration between the University and our neighborhoods about what the future will look like in our shared environment. To learn more about their campus plan prior to the meeting, visit LUC.edu/campusplan

Registration is required to participate in this event.

You can register by scanning the QR code above with your cell phone or by clicking on this LINK.

For over two decades, the Glenwood Avenue Arts Fest (GAAF) has been a beacon of artistic celebration, embodying grassroots spirit and volunteer-driven ethos within Chicago. Organized by the community, this immersive weekend event showcases over 100 artist booths, invites exploration of open studios, and pulsates with vibrant live entertainment across outdoor stages. It stands as one of the few neighborhood festivals where attendees directly engage with creators, discovering and acquiring unique handmade artworks. Nestled amidst the charming cobblestone streets of Chicago's historic Rogers Park neighborhood, the Fest illuminates the Glenwood Avenue Arts District, enriching the experience with free live music, captivating performances, inspiring art demonstrations, and a delectable array of street food and craft beer offered by local merchants.

The Glenwood Avenue Arts fest returns August 16-18th!

Events in Edgewater

24th District Council Monthly Meeting

On Sunday, July 28th at 3:00 pm the 24th District Community Commission for Public Safety and Accountability will be having their monthly meeting to talk about community policing and safety in the neighborhood. You can join in person at Metropolis Coffee (1039 W Granville) or you can register here to participate on Zoom.

Synapse Arts extends its gratitude to the community of artists, partners, collaborators, students, and families who have contributed to their longstanding success by hosting a Birthday Bash! The Birthday Bash is an invitation to celebrate these accomplishments together, and reunite as they celebrate the budding creators they are cultivating now.

Attendees will meet other artists of the Chicago community, watch dance performances live and onscreen, and are invited to participate in a special performance of Crosswalk Dances. The Birthday Bash is a celebration of Synapse Arts in a welcoming, festival-type environment. All attendees will have access to their open events and get a cupcake!

This event takes place on Saturday August 3rd, from 12:00 PM - 4:00 PM at the Berger Park Cultural Center (6205 N. Sheridan Rd).

Opportunities at the event include:

• Free dance classes for kids 
• Two adult dance workshops by Kristina Fluty (donation required)
• Performances by the young artists of the Synapse Performance Troupe and dance professionals from our 20-year history, including Reign Drop, IS/LAND Performance Collaborative, Camila Rivero Pooley, Chrissy Martin, and more
• Dance film screenings with works by Maggie Bridger, Rahila Coats, Rachel Damon, and more
• Interactive museum tours led by Synapse artists (donation required)
• Crosswalk Dances on the lawn
• Make your own dance crafts
• Games and trivia
• A wild and wacky livestream
• Birthday cupcakes!

To learn more about this event, click HERE.

You're invited! Join ONE Northside for their annual Summer Bash, celebrating summertime with all their friends, neighbors, leaders and community partners at a one-of-a-kind North Side party! They will have food, music, games and activities, dancing, summertime treats, fun for kids -- fun for everyone! Join them on Saturday, July 27 from 2-6pm at Gale Community Academy in Rogers Park.

RSVP HERE

To learn more about ONE Northside, click HERE.

The Edgewater Historical Society invites the community to submit images ranging from ornate architecture to the sleek lines of modern windows or even the pleasure of a room with a view that connects us to the world outside. They want to be impressed by your imagination!

·    Submissions: July 1- September 30, 2024

·    Winners announced October 20, 2024

·    Winner categories: 1st, 2nd, & 3rd place winners

·    Photo boundaries – Ravenswood to the Lake and Foster to Devon

·    Open to all ages

·    Include address of the photograph

·    Accepted files, jpg, pngs no pdfs

·    Two photos maximum per entry

·    Photos must be original and taken within the contest time frame

·    Submit photo or send questions to ehsphotosubmit@yahoo.com

Beyond the Waters is hosting a Beach Party at Osterman Beach (5800 N DuSable Lake Shore Drive) on Sunday, August 25th from 12-5 PM. Beyond the Waters is a local organization that seeks to provide adaptive recreation opportunities for Chicago's disability community on the lakefront. Join them for music, food, and many activities at their beach party!

To learn more about the event, visit their Facebook page HERE.

Events in Andersonville

The Andersonville Chamber of Commerce (ACC) is pleased to present the annual Andersonville Summer Sidewalk Sale from Friday, July 26 – Sunday, July 28 (hours vary by business). Join as more than 40 businesses from 4800 to 5900 N. Clark and adjacent side streets expand their storefronts to line the sidewalks with summer sales, bargain antiques, one-of-a-kind merchandise, fashion apparel and local treasures. Once again this year, independent musicians and other artists will perform throughout the district, entertaining shoppers and families as they explore the one-mile district.

Check here for a list of participating vendors!

The Andersonville Chamber of Commerce welcomes all to the annual Taste of Andersonville on Wednesday, August 7th from 5pm-8pm! Pick a route or even both! Attendees travel Clark Street and sample small plates that may feature a dinner item, dessert item, or beverage depending on the location. Please note that routes are subject to change and there are no refunds.

Tickets are $40 in advance for single routes and $75 in advance for the Nom Nom Nom (Nibble and Nosh Combo Route) Tickets will increase on August 5 to $45 for single routes and $80 for the Nom Nom Nom Route.

Early check-in begins at 3PM and check-in ends at 6:30PM. The check-in location will be stationed outdoors at 1554 W Hollywood. Tasters are encouraged to check-in early and explore the neighborhood, as well as the Andersonville Farmers Market which opens at 3PM at 1500 W Catalpa.

To see the list of routes/participating restaurants and purchase tickets check their website here.

Youth & Teen

The Teens in Park program will be hosting an open gym day at the Broadway Armory Gymnastics Center (5917 N Broadway) on August 6th from 12:30 pm-2:00 pm where teen gymnastics enthusiasts of all skill levels are free to practice or perfect their techniques in a safe and supervised environment. Must be at least 13 to register, you can register online here for free.

The Edgewater branch of the Chicago Public Library (6000 N. Broadway) will be having a Teen Crafternoon on Tuesday August 6th from 2:00pm-3:30pm. This time they will be making Polymer clay jewelry, They recommend wearing clothes you don't mind getting dirty, and require a registration. You can find out more, check for future events, and register here

Chicago Youth Service Corps

Chicago Youth Service Corps is a year-round program that provides paid opportunities for youth ages 16-24 to engage in community service, project-based learning, and leadership development. Chicago Youth Service Corps celebrates and welcomes diverse backgrounds and encourages you to bring your experience, background, and traditions to your service.

The application period for this program is year round. To apply, click HERE!

Job Openings

The Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) is hiring for multiple temporary positions. Information about the role can be found by viewing the linked PDF. If you have any questions about the role or on how to apply, feel free to email our office at info@repcassidy.com and we can inquire on your behalf.

Census Field Representative Positions Open

The United States Census Bureau is accepting applications for its Field Representative Position through September 2024.

To apply click this LINK.

As one of the largest municipal park managers in the nation, the Chicago Park District works to improve the quality of life in Chicago with recreation and leisure opportunities in safe and beautiful parks. They offer thousands of programs and events, and are responsible for maintaining 28 indoor pools, 50 outdoor pools, and 28 miles of lakefront including 23 swimming beaches plus one inland beach. If you’re looking for a job where you can use your expertise to improve the quality of life in our city, look no further than the Chicago Park District! 

Whatever your passion, schedule, or experience–they have a job for you.

Apply today!

Perception Cannabis Now Hiring Multiple Positions!

Perception Cannabis will be opening soon on a schedule of 10 AM- 9 PM and is looking to hire locally within the Rogers Park/Edgewater Community!

Budtender - (Part Time and Full Time): 

We are looking for knowledgeable and friendly Budtenders to join our team. As the face of our company, the Budtender plays a crucial role in ensuring an exceptional customer experience while maintaining strict compliance with state regulations. This role involves educating customers about our products, staying informed about industry trends, and managing sales transactions effectively

Receptionist - (Part Time and Full Time): 

We are seeking a detail-oriented and responsible individual to join our team as a Retail Cannabis Receptionist. The receptionist plays a critical role in maintaining compliance with state regulations and ensuring a secure environment for both staff and patrons. This position involves rigorous verification of identification and other relevant documents to ensure that no one under the age of 21 enters the facility without a valid patient card.

Fulfillment Techs - (Part Time and Full time): 

Our company is seeking meticulous and organized Retail Cannabis Fulfillment Technicians to manage the accurate handling of our inventory, including the receipt, fulfillment, and labeling of products. This role is pivotal in ensuring that our operations remain efficient and compliant with all regulatory requirements. The ideal candidate will have a keen eye for detail and excellent organizational skills.

To fill out your application today, please go to: www.perceptionfarms.com/careers

Trilogy: Open Positions

Trilogy Behavioral Health is looking to hire key mental health positions in its organization. Trilogy offers generous benefits and training opportunities. 

To learn more about open positions and to apply, click HERE.

Da Vinci Paws has been serving the Northside of Chicago since 2006. We are a team of pet care professionals who have love and empathy for pets with paws, claws, feathers, and fins.

Our next employee will train with the experienced Da Vinci Paws management team. Position / Schedule / Area : Professional dog walker with the ability to pet sit other animals (cats).

Ideally, a candidate would be available consistently Monday - Friday. We service Andersonville, Edgewater, and Uptown communities.

You can apply here

here

Sincerely,

Kelly Cassidy

State Representative, 14th District



Office of State Representative Kelly Cassidy

1507 W. Morse Ave

Chicago IL 60626