September 2025 Newsletter

I hope you had a restful Labor Day weekend. Now that the long weekend is over and kids are back in school, it feels like summer is officially winding down. Our team spent the remainder of the summer in the community, planning for the fall, and preparing for the upcoming veto session. Read on to find updates about the Kennedy Expressway, The Clean Energy Career Pathway Grant, flash flooding safety tips, and more.

Statement in Response to Trump’s Military Deployment Plans

I stand with Governor Pritzker and the people of Illinois for rejecting President Trump’s threats to deploy military personnel in Chicago. Instead, we need the Trump Administration to re-instate funding for violence intervention grants, lower the cost of necessities impacted by tariffs, and stop cutting Medicaid and SNAP benefits that benefit working families.

By strengthening our partnership with local law enforcement and investing in proven violence prevention programs, we are making our neighborhoods safer. Crime rates are improving and homicides are down by more than 30% in Chicago in the last year alone. Illinois’ Reimagine Public Safety Act has invested $250 million in trauma-informed, evidence-based programs to reduce gun violence, while the Office of Firearm Violence Prevention has coordinated statewide initiatives. Trump, on the other hand, froze $158 million in funding for violence prevention programs in cities like Chicago, dismantled the Office of Gun Violence Prevention (OGVP), and terminated more than $800 million in anti-violence grants nationwide.

Our communities do not deserve to have their blocks, their homes, their schools and churches turned into a military state. Public safety is what lets us gather in parks and build the bonds that make our city strong. It gives businesses the confidence to invest and grow, bringing tourism and jobs to our neighborhoods. Most importantly, it gives every family, including mine, peace of mind.

There’s more to be done, but we must build on the progress we have already made, which is the work of local law enforcement and a focus on proven violence prevention investments. Alongside the Governor, I will continue to follow the law, stand up for the sovereignty of our state, and protect the people of Illinois.

Back-To-School Supplies Drive for DCFS Youth in Care

Thank you to everyone who donated to our Back-To-School Supplies Drive in partnership with DCFS. We collected a total of 1021 supplies which included backpacks, notebooks, binders, markers, crayons, pencils and more. Thanks to you, we have ensured that youth in DCFS care have the tools they need for a successful school year.

Statement from Illinois DCFS Director, Heidi Mueller: “DCFS is grateful to Rep. Croke and the entire community whose back-to-school donations equipped our youth for a successful start to a new school year. Through this community partnership all of you have demonstrated how much you value not only education, but the young people who are a part of this community. We extend our sincerest thanks for helping make sure all of our kids have an opportunity to grow and thrive.”

In the Community

Chicago Women in Trades

It was an honor to speak at the Chicago Women in Trades (CWIT) graduation for their Women Build Illinois program. Twenty-four women are now entering union trade apprenticeships, on a path to secure high-wage careers and economic stability.

These successes are a powerful reminder of what’s at stake, especially after the Trump administration cut federal funding for CWIT by rolling back DEI initiatives. These graduates are living proof that investing in training and opportunity for women in underrepresented fields is not just important, but essential.

I’ll continue to fight for workforce development and make sure every dollar builds opportunity.

Old Town Triangle Association’s Grand Re-Opening

My staff enjoyed participating in Brian Hopkin’s Bike the 2nd Ward Event. It was a great opportunity to get out of the office and connect with cyclists. They enjoyed chatting about the importance of bike safety and seeing the community explore the ward on two wheels.

Burton Place Plaza

My team toured the redesigned Burton Place Plaza (1447 N Wells St). They were so impressed with the transformation, from the beautiful new garden beds to the stunning fountain. A huge thank you to Marcy and Colleen from the Old Town Residents and Merchant’s Association for showing them around!

Shirley Ryan AbilityLab

My team and I toured the Shirley Ryan AbilityLab in Streeterville. This is a world-class rehabilitation facility that serves adults and children who have severe conditions, from traumatic brain injuries to amputation-related and cancer-related functional impairments. I learned how they blend physical therapy and research to create a holistic and personalized approach for each of their patients. Thank you to Pablo Celnik, Nancy Paridy, Wayne Anderson, and Judy Erwin for having me! To learn more about the Lab, click here.

Government & Nonprofit Updates

Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT)

IDOT has some updates regarding the The Kennedy Rehabilitation Project:

  • All local lanes north of Pulaski/Irving Park will be reopening next week.
  • The Diversey exit and Fullerton Avenue slip ramp to Western Avenue will be closed for about two weeks as of Tuesday, August 26th.
  • The Kimball exit, Addison entrance, and Pulaski/Irving Park Rd exit reopened Friday, August 29th.

IDOT is also excited to report that they are at 70% completion and still on track to open by Thanksgiving.

Secretary of State

Illinois Secretary of State Alexi Giannoulias launched a statewide advocacy campaign aimed at preventing insurance companies from using socio-economic data – such as credit scores, zip codes and age – to charge Illinoisans higher auto insurance rates. As part of his “Driving Change” campaign, Giannoulias is seeking input from Illinoisans, asking them to share their stories about unfair and discriminatory ratemaking practices employed by auto insurance companies. To learn more or to attend a town hall, click here.

The Cook County Board of Review

The Cook County Board of Review has officially opened the 2025 tax year session for appeals. Property owners may Pre-File an appeal of their 2025 property taxes with the Cook County Board of Review now, OR you can wait until the Assessor has finalized the property value and then file an appeal when your township’s 30-day appeal period opens.

You will be notified when your township is open for appeals. You are not required to submit comparable properties as evidence with your appeal. The Board of Review will provide the latest and most accurate data to substantiate your appeal.

Property Tax Appeal Resources:

If you have any questions or require further assistance, please reach out to Cook County Board of Review Commissioner Samantha Steele at bordistrict2info@cookcountyil.gov or call (312) 603-5542.

After School Matters

Chicago nonprofit, After School Matters’ Fall application is now open. Teens ages 14-18 can apply for after-school programs to explore their passions, learn new skills, and earn money. A few examples of programs include ceramics, robotics, creative writing, soccer, and more. Programs run from September 23 – December 13. To apply, click here.

Grant Opportunities

Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity

The Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity has a variety of grants available:

The Clean Energy Career Pathway Program will provide funding directly to eligible recipients to support the planning and implementation of a Clean Energy Career Pathway. Programs will include coursework, field experiences, and work-based learning designed to prepare students for entrance into careers focusing on electric vehicles. This funding opportunity seeks qualified, eligible public or private educational institutions at the secondary and post-secondary level that will work with the Local Workforce Innovation Areas and employers to recruit students into clean energy fields and create pathways encompassing technical and employability skills with dual credit options. The deadline to apply for this grant is September 30th by 11:59pm CST, and rewards range from $250,000 – $750,000. For more details contact John Barr at john.w.barr@illinois.gov or click here.

The Community Solar Energy Sovereignty Grant Program will provide funding to support the development of community solar projects to promote community ownership and energy sovereignty. The program provides capital on solar and renewable energy projects for individuals, businesses, nonprofits, and other groups. The Department prioritizes funding for projects that demonstrate direct and tangible benefits to the local community. The deadline to apply for this grant is December 31st by 5pm CST and rewards range from $50,000 – $1,000,000. For more details contact Matthew Swaine at Matthew.Swaine@Illinois.gov or click here.

Upcoming Events and Community Meetings

19th Police District Council Meeting

The 19th Police District Council will host their next meeting on Wednesday, September 24th at 6:30pm at Uptown Church (1134 W Wilson). For more information, click here.

18th Police District Council Meeting

The 18th Police District Council will host their next meeting on Tuesday, September 23rd at 6:00pm at Old Town Triangle Association (1763 N North Park Ave). For more information and updates, click here.

Lincoln Park Health & Wellness Weekend

Get ready to refresh, recharge, and feel your best during Lincoln Park Health & Wellness Weekend. On Saturday, September 6, 8:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. (Lincoln Common Plaza, 2335 N. Lincoln) there will be free mini-spa services including chair massage, mini facial, ear acupuncture, skin treatment, brow & lash consultation, and more. You can also sign up for free outdoor workout classes on Saturday, September 6 and Sunday, September 7. To sign-up for a class, click here.

Alderman Bennett Lawson’s Annual Senior Picnic

Alderman Lawson’s Annual Senior Picnic will be held on Thursday, September 4th from 11am – 1:30pm at Oakdale and Inner Lake Shore Drive, south of Picnic Grove 13. Call (773) 525-6034 to RSVP. We hope to see you there for a day of music, raffles, and good food!

PAWS 5K Run/Walk for Their Lives

PAWS 5K Run/Walk for Their Lives is Chicago’s Largest dog-friendly charity event, and it will be held on Saturday, September 13th from 7:30am – 11:00am at PAWS Chicago Blazer Building (1933 N Marcey St). Click here to register and learn more.

Lincoln Park Uncorked

The 10th annual Lincoln Park Uncorked: A Lincoln Avenue Wine Stroll will be held on Thursday, September 18th from 6pm – 9pm. Check in at Junior Chefs Kitchen (2448 N. Lincoln, Suite 2), then stroll down Lincoln Avenue between Diversey and Webster to sip and enjoy seasonal wine selections and delicious bites from restaurants and eateries. RSVP here.

The Lakeview East Festival of the Arts

Celebrate 20 years of The Lakeview East Festival of the Arts on Saturday, September 13th to Sunday, September 14th 11am – 7pm, with live music until 10pm. Along Broadway Belmont to Hawthorne, over 120 artists will be featured along with local cuisine and fun activities for kids! You can find more information here.

East Lakeview Neighbors Oktoberfest

East Lakeview Neighbors’ 25th annual Oktoberfest will take place Saturday, September 20th from 3:30pm – 7:30pm at Murphy’s Bleachers (3655 N Sheffield). The event includes live music, German food, a silent auction with Cubs memorabilia, exciting raffles, and games. RSVP here.

Lincoln Central Association’s Evening in the Garden

You’re invited to Lincoln Central Association’s Evening in the Garden on September 21, 2025 (Fire Station Park, 1990 N Larrabee St). The garden party honors retiring police officers and volunteers who make our neighborhood parks special. The event is free to the public and includes food, wine, and beverages from local businesses. You can find more information here.

Resources

Flash Flooding Safety Tips

With flood season peaking from July to August, it’s crucial to prioritize safety during rainy weather and flash flooding. Follow these tips to keep yourself and your family safe.

Know Your Rights

Understanding your rights is vital for all individuals in the United States. The information above provides helpful guidance for encounters with ICE. For further support and resources, visit the National Immigrant Justice Center’s Legal Deportation Assistance website or Organized Communities Against Deportations’ Resource Guide.

PAWS Shoutout

We have a PAWS shoutout for August: Meet Macaroni!

Macaroni is a gentle, playful guy who is a big fan of splashing in pools, going on long walks, and running around with his signature goofy zooms. He has spent time in a foster home with another dog, and having a pup by his side has helped him grow more confident. He’s looking for a calm neighborhood with a private entrance where he can feel safe coming and going. With his sweet nature and love for the outdoors, Macaroni is the perfect match for someone active who’s ready for a fun-loving sidekick with a heart of gold.

Macaroni is available for adoption at PAWS Chicago’s Pippen Fasseas Adoption Center, located at 1997 N. Clybourn Avenue. Visit pawschicago.org and make your adoption appointment today!

Social Media

For the latest updates on bills, Springfield happenings, and helpful resources, follow us on Instagram and Facebook.

Wishing you a safe and healthy September. As always, please reach out to my office with any questions or concerns. I look forward to seeing you around the district this summer!

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