Warm weather is finally here, and summer is near! The sun will shine, school lets out, grilling season begins, the swimming pool opens, and the kiddos run around front lawns and enjoy popsicles!
But Chicago’s weather is unpredictable. Recent storms and strong winds left tree debris and fallen branches across sidewalks, driveways, and streets.
Here’s what you can do about it.
To prevent standing water, bad odors, and flood damage, clear your stormwater drains, gutters, and downpipes of leaves and debris. When you maintain your drainage, you protect your property, your neighbors, and the whole community. If a neighbor’s drain is clogged, a polite conversation often works — or call 311 to request an inspection.
Report problems. Don’t assume someone else will.
To keep Clear-Ridge safe and well-maintained, report city service issues to your Alderman’s Office or 311. A pothole that drivers constantly swerve around? Note the street address and report it — you’ll prevent vehicle damage for everyone. Rodents in the alley? Request rodent baiting through the Alderman’s Office or 311. Graffiti? Same process.
The Garfield Ridge Neighborhood Watch has partnered with the Alderman’s Office to remove graffiti in one to two days. Message them on Facebook or Instagram with the street address and a photo — that’s all they need.
Three ways to report:
1) CHI 311 mobile app or website — Download from the App Store or Google Play. Select a category (animals, garbage, health, etc.), create a service request, and track its status. It’s a one-stop shop.
2) Call or email your Alderman’s Office — Check office hours or attend a CAPS Beat meeting (see details below).
3) Attend a community meeting — CAPS Beat 811 and 812 meetings include 13th and 23rd Ward representatives who can help you report issues in person.
As homeowners and residents, assume no one else has reported the problem. Submit a request yourself. That’s how we help our community thrive.
Community Nuggets
• Garfield Ridge Farmer’s Market: Saturdays, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., Archer and Narragansett. Fresh goods, local vendors, and Market Place merchandise. Brought to you by the Midway Chamber of Commerce.
• St. Faustina Senior Club — Final Meeting of the Year: Monday, June 1, at the parish center (5201 S. McVicker). Doors open at 9:45 a.m.; meeting starts at 10:30 a.m. $5 door fee (regular meetings), $10 (luncheon meetings). Questions? Call or text Joyce at 773.704.4396.
• Clearing Night Force Monthly Meeting: Wednesday, June 10, 5:30 p.m., Clearing Library (6425 W. 63rd Pl.). Learn about community patrols, reporting city services, and keeping Clearing safe. Stay for the CAPS Beat 812 meeting at 6:30 p.m.
• Archer Car Show Friday: June 5, 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. Showcase cars, live entertainment, food trucks, and family fun. Co-hosted by Garfield Ridge Neighborhood Watch and Midway Chamber of Commerce. Followed by Summer-Nite Pop Up on Archer Ave (BizHub Parking Lot, 6422 W. Archer Ave.) for shopping, food, and community vibes.
• Paws in the Park — Annual Pet Vaccination Event: Saturday, June 6, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., Wentworth Park. Free vaccinations, microchipping, local vendors, and activities. Pet blessing at 9:30 a.m. Hosted by Midway Chamber of Commerce.
• Garfield Ridge Neighborhood Watch & CAPS Beat 811 Combined Meeting: Tuesday, June 16, 7 p.m. to 8 p.m., St. Faustina Ward Hall (5151 S. McVicker Ave.). Doors open at 6:45 p.m. Hear from Beat 811 officers, aldermanic reps, and community leaders about neighborhood issues. Livestreamed on Facebook and Instagram.