In recognition of National Public Safety Telecommunicator Week from April 14-20, 2024, public safety telecommunicators are being honored for their commitment and dedication. The week serves as a time to appreciate the hard work and sacrifice of these essential workers who play a crucial role in ensuring the safety of communities across the nation."National Public Safety Telecommunicator Week honors public safety telecommunicators for their commitment and dedication," stated the organizers of the week.Public safety telecommunicators are the unsung heroes who work...
Mayor Brandon Johnson expressed the city's commitment to investing in neglected communities, stating, "The tens of thousands of trees that we are planting on the South and West Sides are making our neighborhoods healthier, more climate-resilient, and even more beautiful than they already are."Christine O'Reilly, White Sox vice president of community relations, highlighted the organization's dedication to improving Chicago, stating, "Green space is vital to health and wellness, and we are proud to lend our voice to such an important project and help promote environmental...
Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson welcomed Ukrainian Prime Minister Denys Shmyhal and his delegation to the City of Chicago today. Their meeting at City Hall, alongside Special Representative for Ukraine’s Economic Recovery Penny Pritzker, focused on Chicago’s Ukrainian community, one of the largest in the United States.During the meeting, Mayor Johnson emphasized the city's unwavering support for Ukraine, particularly noting the tens of thousands of displaced Ukrainians who have found refuge in Chicago since the Russian invasion of Ukraine in 2022. Mayor Johnson stated,...
The City of Chicago has been awarded $2 million by the U.S. Department of Transportation Reconnecting Communities and Neighborhoods Program to help mitigate the negative effects of highways or other transportation facilities that create barriers to community connectivity, mobility, access, and economic development. This funding will support the City in engaging the community and planning infrastructure improvements to promote traffic safety and enhance accessibility on Chicago’s West Side, particularly addressing the adverse impacts of the Eisenhower Expressway (I-290) on...
Mayor Brandon Johnson announced that the City of Chicago has been chosen to participate in the CityStart initiative with a focus on racial wealth equity. The initiative aims to develop strategies to help families and communities achieve financial stability. Mayor Johnson expressed his commitment to creating a thriving Chicago where all residents have access to the resources they need to thrive, stating, "My administration looks forward to participating in the CityStart Initiative and developing actionable, data-driven, and community-informed strategies to advance and launch...
CDOT Announces Start of Spring Bridge Lifts Along the Chicago River Saturday April 20The Chicago Department of Transportation (CDOT) has revealed that the spring bridge lifts will commence on Saturday, April 20, with the raising of 27 bridges from South Ashland Avenue to DuSable Lake Shore Drive.According to CDOT, "Each year, in the spring and fall, CDOT raises the movable bridges along the Main and South Branches of the Chicago River on a twice-weekly schedule on Saturdays and Wednesdays to accommodate recreational boats traveling to and from their storage yards."...
CHICAGO (April 15, 2024) – The current Chicago Teachers Union contract is set to expire on June 30, 2024, and as details of the union's demands emerge, Chicagoans are bracing themselves for what could be a significant departure from traditional negotiations.Analysis from the Illinois Policy Institute has revealed that the Chicago Teachers Union's demands extend far beyond the usual scope of government union contracts, delving into areas such as housing, the environment, and healthcare, in addition to seeking substantial pay raises.Among the most contentious demands is...
CHICAGO – Today, we mourn the loss of an 8-year-old girl whose life was tragically taken from her by gang violence, said Mayor Brandon Johnson. He described the incident as "heinous and cowardly" and emphasized that such violence has no place in their communities."We are all allowed to be outraged today – a warm, spring day that I am sure this child would have been enjoying with family," Mayor Johnson expressed, highlighting the tragic loss and the impact on the community. He added, "I am praying for her loved ones and her community as they experience the unimaginable...
CHICAGO – The Mayor’s Office of Chicago has provided an update to the City Council members regarding the ongoing efforts and developments of the New Arrivals Mission. The briefing included discussions on federal advocacy, cost-saving measures, alternative shelter models, and a new funding request set to be introduced in the Budget Committee.Key among the updates was a new funding request aimed at supplementing investments from Cook County and the State of Illinois. This request includes $70 million from the City’s assigned fund balance reserve, in addition to the $150...
Two periodical cicada broods, which haven’t emerged simultaneously in more than 220 years, will rise from the ground as early as this month. This extraordinary event has sparked curiosity and anticipation among nature enthusiasts and researchers alike. The cicadas, known for their distinct buzzing sound and red eyes, are set to make a remarkable appearance after a prolonged period of underground hibernation.The anticipation surrounding the 2024 cicadas' emergence is palpable, with experts closely monitoring their activity. The simultaneous emergence of these two cicada...
CHICAGO (April 9, 2024) – Matt Paprocki, president of the Illinois Policy Institute, emphasized the importance of work in combating poverty during a field hearing by the U.S. House of Representatives Ways and Means Committee’s Subcommittee on Work and Welfare. Paprocki highlighted the need for effective strategies to uplift impoverished individuals and facilitate their access to meaningful employment.Paprocki addressed the issue of poverty by advocating for specific solutions that could be implemented by Congress to make a significant impact. He stated, “Today’s poverty...
Mayor Brandon Johnson, in a press conference on April 9, 2024, addressed the release of bodycam footage from a police-involved shooting that occurred on March 21st in Garfield Park. Johnson expressed his deep sorrow over the incident, stating, "I am personally devastated to see yet another young Black man lose his life during an interaction with the police."He extended his condolences to the family of Dexter Reed, the young man who lost his life in the shooting, saying, "My heart breaks for the family of Dexter Reed. They are grieving the loss of a son, a brother, and a...
On April 9, 2024, people across the country are celebrating National Library Workers Day. The day recognizes and appreciates the hard work and dedication of library staff who play a crucial role in maintaining the functionality of our libraries.In a heartfelt message, it was expressed, "Happy National Library Workers Day to all the incredible library staff who work to keep our libraries running." This sentiment highlights the importance of acknowledging the efforts of these individuals who work tirelessly to provide valuable services to the community.The message further...
"Chicago Public Schools (CPS) has announced the launch of the 2024-25 preschool application, encouraging families, caregivers, and community organizations to participate in upcoming webinars to learn more about the program.The application for CPS's free full-day preschool program for four-year-olds and half-day preschool program for three-year-olds opened on April 9. Families can apply through the Chicago Early Learning website and application portal. The initiative aims to improve educational and social outcomes for all children, particularly those with the greatest...
The U.S. House of Representatives’ Ways and Means subcommittee on work and welfare is set to host a hearing at a Chicago homeless shelter on how work can lift individuals out of poverty. The event, titled "The Dignity of Work: Lifting Individuals Out of Poverty," will feature testimony from Matt Paprocki, president of the Illinois Policy Institute and founder of the Center for Poverty Solution.Paprocki will speak before U.S. House Committee on Ways and Means Chairman Jason Smith, R-Mo., and Work & Welfare Subcommittee Chairman Darin LaHood, R-Ill. The hearing is scheduled...
Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson has been making significant strides in advancing his affordable housing and business development agenda for the city's working population. Last week, a series of major announcements were rolled out, showcasing the mayor's commitment to addressing crucial issues affecting Chicagoans.One of the key highlights was the appointment of Sendy Soto as Chicago’s first Chief Homelessness Officer. Soto, a lifelong Chicagoan with a deep understanding of housing insecurity, emphasized the importance of addressing systemic barriers for zero-to-low income...
CHICAGO – On behalf of the City of Chicago, Mayor Brandon Johnson expressed his condolences following the passing of Cook County Clerk Karen Yarbrough. Mayor Johnson stated, "On behalf of the City of Chicago, I am sending my heartfelt condolences to the family and loved ones of Cook County Clerk Karen Yarbrough."Describing Yarbrough as a pioneer and a tireless legislator, Mayor Johnson highlighted her commitment to social and economic justice throughout her years of public service. He acknowledged her as the first African-American and the first woman to hold the position...
Capitol Crimes Podcast Sheds Light on Human Trafficking in IllinoisIn a recent episode of the Capitol Crimes podcast, the host addressed the pervasive issue of human trafficking, emphasizing its reach across different communities. The host highlighted, "No matter where you live, whether it’s in a big city, a suburban neighborhood, or a small rural town — your community could be impacted by human trafficking."The podcast episode delved into the efforts being made in Illinois to combat human trafficking and support its victims. Listeners were encouraged to "Learn how we...
Rep. Stephens to Host Upcoming Local Events!Rep. Stephens has announced two exciting community events for Harwood Heights residents. The first event is a mobile DMV event scheduled for Monday, April 29, 2024, from 10 am- 2 pm at the Eisenhower Public Library. Rep. Stephens expressed her enthusiasm, stating, "I am pleased to inform you all about my two upcoming community events!"For those in need of services at the SOS office, Rep. Stephens encourages registration on the provided link to join the mobile team from the Secretary of State’s office at the library, as...