It’s been another whirlwind week and while I wasn’t able to finish writing in time for the 2nd community softball game at Willye White Park with Alderwoman Hadden and 49th ward neighbors, it was worth having to get up early to finish the newsletter today. To be honest, I’ve never been much of a ball player, so I cheered everyone on from the stands while Candace represented the family on field. See below where they’re having an ultimate Chicago moment, tagging the Alderwoman out at first in their first 16” softball outing! Maybe I should get some pom poms for the next game on Saturday August 5th at 11am. Please come out for future softball games! They are really fun! |  |  | |
This week finally brought closure to a long-simmering question when the Illinois Supreme Court upheld the Pre Trial Fairness Act components of the Safe-T Act that was passed in 2021. At its core, what this act does is remove the use of money bond to avoid detention prior to trial. Defenders of the status quo have never directly responded to the question of what wealth has to do with the question of whether someone should be detained while awaiting trial and instead used inflammatory rhetoric in an attempt to mislead the public about what the law really does.
Under current law, judges can use their discretion to determine whether someone is a risk to themselves or others, or presents a risk of not returning for trial, and very often use a person’s ability to pay a cash bond as the determining factor. What this means is that a person who is accused of shoplifting a relatively small amount but can’t afford to pay $250 towards a $2500 bond is stuck in custody and risks losing their job, school, and home while a person accused of a brutal murder who can come up with $250,000 of a $2,500,000 bond can walk free and maintain a relatively normal life while awaiting trial. The Pre Trial Fairness Act seeks to bring some common sense to the process.
Crafted in consultation with stakeholders across the spectrum including law enforcement, prosecutors, victim and survivor advocates, defense attorneys, and others, the law seeks to ensure that those who are a danger to themselves, others, or the community or present a flight risk are held while others can be given services in community while remaining free until trial. One of the most commonly cited “problems” with the law is that it violates the rights of crime victims. This couldn’t be further from the truth. The reality is that organizations known for pushing for expanded consideration for victims and survivors were enthusiastic supporters of this law - The Network Advocating to End Domestic Violence, The Illinois Coalition Against Domestic Violence, The Illinois Coalition Against Sexual Assault, and the Chicago Alliance Against Sexual Exploitation were leading advocates for passage of the bill.
Not often discussed is the role financial questions appeared to play for opponents of the bill. The entire criminal justice system has a stake here as a percentage of the bond posted by a defendant actually isn’t returned to the defendant when they return to court for trial - it is taken off the top of the refund to fund the court system. So, that person accused of shoplifting I mentioned earlier. Let’s just say they find someone to come up with the $250 so they can get out of jail and await trial. When they show up for their court date, their refund will reflect that cut off the top, whether they’re guilty of shoplifting or not. If they borrowed that money, they’re still short to repay the loan.
The court gave 60 days to enact the law, so on September 18, 2023 all courts in Illinois are expected to be in compliance. Cook County eliminated cash bail earlier this year so the ruling should have minimal impact here.
On Wednesday, I took part in the second annual national My Body My Choice Flash Event in support of the National Network of Abortion Funds & The National Center for Transgender Equality. The amazing artists of In The Clouds Tattoo will be donating 75% of the proceeds of all tattoos from the event to the beneficiary organizations that are helping patients access care in receiving states on July 29th. I chose a design from the national flash sheet and added a tribute to my beloved Nick Furry. Nick was only with us a short time, but his larger-than-life personality and his starring Zoom role in our pandemic experience made quite the impression.
Friday, I joined with a few House and Senate colleagues to tour the facilities of The Clever Carnivore. This innovative business is seeking creative solutions to food and climate issues by exploring the use of lab grown meat products for food production. It was a fascinating presentation, and the bratwurst was pretty tasty, honestly. I was excited to share the experience with two of our summer interns and Chief of Staff Torrence Gardner.
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Pictured left: Torrence Gardner & Alex Johnson while pictured right is me and Rie Kim | |
I’m looking forward to a weekend of catching up on some neglected garden tasks (sorry neighbors…the morning glories appear to be winning), and spending time with the boys as they all prepare for their transitions. Wishing some Chicago summer perfection for you all, whether that is beach time or garden time, a great street fair, the perfect farmer’s market fruit find, music in a park, or any of the other amazing ways we find to celebrate the best season in the best city, enjoy! | |
Rogers Park’s Sol Cafe Closing Sunday After 10 Years | |
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Sol Cafe located at 1615 W. Howard St. will close Sunday after more than 10 years in operation. This business was truly an anchor store on Howard Street. It was a great meet-up spot for residents and organizations while enjoying some delicious eats and drinks. However, they experienced some tough times during these recent years that ranged from multiple incidents of water damage due to the record rainfall we received to the incidents of violence that left the store hit with bullets. Simone Freeman opened the spot in December of 2012 to help address the need for a cafe spot on Howard Street. Freeman sold it to a couple who were employees (The Terrazas family) last year. The business will be missed. To learn more click here.
A GoFundMe has been launched to help employees who are losing their jobs. To support click here.
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Representative Cassidy's Tea and Conversation - CANCELLED | |
Unfortunately, our upcoming Tea and Conversation event is cancelled, due to a plethora of scheduling issues. Please keep an eye out on future announcements and newsletters for future events. | |
Mayor's 2024 Budget Roundtables | |
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Mayor Brandon Johnson and his team is inviting our community to come out and participate in the community engagement process for this year's budget.
Please join the City at one of the three roundtables to hear an overview of the budget and share your insights and ask questions about the City's budget. Doors open an hour before the forums for a City Resource Fair where representatives from the City's departments and sister agencies will be available to answer questions and provide information on City services sand programs. The Budget Community Engagement Roundtables will be live-streamed on the City of Chicago's social media channels.
ROUNDTABLE III
Saturday, July 22 | 10:00 am - 12:30 pm
Harry S. Truman College
1145 West Wilson Avenue
REGISTER HERE
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Our office is collecting school supplies for CPS students. A list of desired school supplies can be found here. School supply donations can be made at the three following locations:
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District Office (1507 W. Morse) Tues-Thurs 9am-5pm
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Women & Children First (5233 N. Clark) Tues-Sun 11am-6pm
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R Public House (1508 W. Jarvis) Mon-Thurs 3pm-10pm; Friday 3pm-12am; Saturday & Sunday 10am-12am
School Supply List: https://bit.ly/CPSList24
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Family Days at Howard Garden | |
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When: Sat, July 22 1 - 3pm
Where: Hello Howard, Ashland and Rogers
Join friends and neighbors for art and science activities inside the garden!
More information here.
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Gus Presents 70th Jazz Show Spectacular | |
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Gus is celebrating 70 years! Join them for the 70th Jazz Show Spectacular on Friday, July 28, at Nicholas Senn Theater (5900 N Glenwood) at 7pm.
Gus 70th Jazz Show Spectacular is a variety dance showcase featuring cheoreography from Jazz Masters who trained under Gus Giordana and Gus' favorite signature piece SING SING SING. All ticket proceeds benefit the Gus Legacy Foundation, a non-profit that provides dance scholarships to underdeserved youth and young adults. Visit guslegacy.org for tickets and more information!
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Andersonville Sidewalk Sale | |
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The Andersonville Sidewalk Sale is upon us! From Friday, July 29th to Sunday, July 31, over 30 Andersonville neighborhood businesses will be offering deals, discounts, and promos for you to peruse. Make your way from 4800 N Clark to 5800 N Clark and find something for everyone (or just for yourself!)
For more information, click here.
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Application for Property Tax Savings | |
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Are you a homeowner in Cook County? Apply now for your property tax savings. the following are available exemptions:
- Homeowner Exemption
- Senior Exemption
- Low-Income Senior Citizens Assessment Freeze
- Returning Veterans Exemption
- Veterans with Disabilities Exemption
- Persons with Disabilities Exemption
The exemptions application will close on Friday, August 4. View exemption eligibility, documentation required, and apply online at cookcountyassessor.com/exemptions. Homeowners are strongly encouraged to apply online so that there is a digital record of their application. Applying online allows Assessor staff to easily locate the application, provide a status update, and notify of missing documents needed to complete their application.
Homeowners can join in-person and virtual workshops on how to file for exemptions. For a list of upcoming events, visit www.cookcountyassessor.com/event-list.
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Andersonville Arts Weekend | |
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Calling all artists!
Andersonville Arts Weekend is back from Friday September 29 - Sun Oct 1 and is now accepting applications for artists that would like a chance to present their work all weekend throughout Andersonville.
You can find the application here.
Whether you specialize in painting, photography, mixed media, puppeteering, sculpting, or any other form of artistic expression, this is your chance to shine! This three-day extravaganza promises to captivate art enthusiasts, locals, and visitors alike.
Located in the heart of Andersonville, arts weekend provides a supportive platform for artists to exhibit their work, gain exposure, and build meaningful connections within the creative community.
Don't miss out on the opportunity to showcase your creativity, inspire others, and potentially make sales! The Andersonville Arts Weekend attracts a wide range of art enthusiasts, collectors, eager to discover new talent.
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Rogers Park Community Garden Walk | |
Join your neighbors at the Rogers Park Community Garden Walk on Saturday, July 29th from 10AM-1PM! The group will meet at Jarvis Square Pottery (1443 W. Jarvis) at 9:30AM to begin a walking tour of North Rogers Park's community gardens and orchards. To RSVP and for more information, click here. | |
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When: August 9th 5-8pm
Where: 5344 N. Clark
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Tickets are now on sale for the annual Taste of Andersonville! Two routes are available for attendees to sample different small plates and drinks from a variety of local restaurants, cafes, and more. Tickets are $40 in advance for single routes and $75 in advance for both routes. Tickets will increase in price on August 1st.
More information, including the participating locations, can be found here.
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The Glenwood Sunday Market is back! From every Sunday now until October 29, the market is devoted to bringing local, sustainable foods that are also organic whenever possible to the Rogers Park community. Sunday's are the perfect time to pick up all your essential party, picnic, or just grocery needs at the market.
More information can be found here.
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Edgewater's Monday Market is back! From 3-7pm every Monday until September 25th, the Market offers an expansive assortment of produce and goods, while emphasizing the vibrant connection between those in the Edgewater community.
Monday Market is an exciting opportunity to support local vendors and engage with other Edgewater residents in a welcoming and lively environment. Monday Market is located in The Broadway Armory at 5917 N Broadway. More information on Monday Market and a list of vendors can be found at https://www.edgewater.org/programs/farmers-market/.
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Andersonville Farmers Market | |
The Andersonville Farmers Market runs from May 10-September 18th, every Wednesday from 3pm-7pm on Catalpa Avenue, between Clark and Ashland. Come support our local vendors! | |
Free Concerts at Edgewater Historical Society | |
Join your neighbors again this year, on warm summer nights, for our popular community program of free live performances. From July 12 to August 23, 2023, every Wednesday evening from 6 to 8 p.m., different local musicians will entertain you in the beautiful EHS garden. Children and pet friendly! All are welcome. Click here for the 2023 schedule. | |
July Colvin Concert Series | |
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Chicagoland talent will be performing all month long in the beautiful parlor of the historic Colvin House, located at 5940 N. Sheridan Road.
Tues, July 25: Radium Swing Band
While RSVP is free, there is a suggested donation that goes toward paying the musicians and staff for their efforts in producing these community concerts.
For more information, click here.
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C24/7's Great Giveaway was started a few years ago in honor of Nate (The Great) who passed away. This event is way to give back to the neighborhood with a day full of fun, laughter, and love. Almost 500 people came out with their kids last year. C24/7 is looking forward to brining the community together again this year on July 22! All are welcome, and volunteers, donations of funds, toys, food, and more are needed! Please visit c247fam.org/events to learn more and get involved!
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24th District Police Blood Drive | |
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When: Sun, July 30th 12 - 4pm
Where: Jarvis Square, between the Redline and Greenview
Join Theatre Above the Law at an all-ages carnival in Jarvis Square. The carnival will feature live music, fun booths and games for the whole family!
Admission to the event is FREE!
Tickets are available for the raffle, booths and carnival-style games. Enjoy rubber duck races, fortune telling, bozo buckets, dunk tank and more.
More information here.
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Vote for Glenwood Sunday Market! | |
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American Farmland Trust and the Farmers Market Coalition are giving away $15K in prizes (and more!) to the nation’s favorite farmers markets. We know you love GSM, so show them your love by taking a minute and casting your vote. The deadline to vote is Sept 18, 2023.
Vote here!
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Congresswoman Schakowsky's Weekly Neighborhood Office Hours | |
Congresswoman Schakowsky's office will be hosting weekly neighborhood office hours to help connect 9th District constituents with a variety of federal government resources. The office hours will take place every Friday, from 10 am to 2 pm, in the Betty A. Barclay Community Room at the Edgewater Library, 6000 N. Broadway. | |
CTO $5,000 Scholarship Opportunity | |
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Chicago City Treasurer Melissa Conyears-Ervin and the Chicago Treasurer’s Office (CTO) will award first-ever Empowerment Scholarships to first-year students entering a two or four-year accredited institution in the fall of 2023. The one-time, $5,000 award will be presented to students residing in Chicago during the CTO’s “Financial Youth Symposium and Step Show” program at Chicago State University on August 31.
The Empowerment Scholarship is the first being awarded to Chicago students as part of the CTO’s 2023-2024 college scholarship program sponsored by community partners BMO, Discover, and Providence Bank & Trust. To be eligible for the $5,000 award, which can be used to pay for any education-related expenses, a student must be enrolled in an institution of higher learning in the fall of 2023 and submit a completed application, including an essay, high school transcripts and other materials, to monique.cook-bey@cityofchicago.org by 11:59 pm on Sunday, August 6.
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Standing Tall Music Festival | |
Join Lake Shore Schools and Tiny Giants Early Learning Centers for a family-friendly music festival! On Saturday, July 22 from 11AM-1PM, Mr. Ray will take the stage and play your favorite songs! While at the festival, families can take part in activities and games, chat with their amazing staff members and learn more about some of their neighborhood friends such as, Gus Giordano Dance School, and Life's Sweet Inc. | |
Miss Mack's Summer Youth Dance Classes | |
Click here for more information. | |
Rogers Park Library Events | |
The Rogers Park Branch Library, 6907 N. Clark, offers a variety of events and programming for people of all ages, but especially for the little ones. Make sure to check out a list of their upcoming events and register to attend one. More information is available on its website here. | |
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Sincerely,
Kelly Cassidy
State Representative, 14th District
Office of State Representative Kelly Cassidy
1507 W. Morse Ave
Chicago IL 60626
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773 - 784 - 2002 (phone)
repcassidy@gmail.com
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