Kelly’s Weekly Update

We’re on our annual trip to visit our home away from home in Wyoming where our dear friend hosts us every year for a week of hiking, floating, playing, cooking, and eating. As the boys get older and start their own lives, each one of these trips feels more precious. I love that these city boys have also grown up in the mountains and appreciate the outdoors just as much as the pace and conveniences of life in a big city. 

While I’ve been in a much slower mode, I’m thankful for our amazing team for keeping everything moving forward. Constituent service needs never seem to slow, and I’m proud that our team is nimble enough to keep everything covered. We’ve also had a great response to our listing for a new part-time constituent service coordinator, so hopefully, our team will be growing soon!

While I’ve been mostly unplugged, I have kept abreast of some of the goings on back in Illinois, particularly the perjury trial of former Speaker Madigan’s former chief of staff, Tim Mapes. This trial, even more than the ComEd one a few months ago, really brings back memories and feelings from my run-ins with him in particular around the issues of how his sexual harassment and bullying behavior impacted so many current and former members of staff who were terrified to come forward, fearing retribution. When Sherri Garrett stopped me one afternoon late in session asking to speak to me privately to share her history with him and tell me he’d finally gone too far, I was awed by her bravery and humbled by her trust in me to help her through what was ahead. Even after Mapes was fired, we continued to hear from other staffers about their experiences who were still too afraid to come forward, citing Mapes’ and Madigan’s extensive power in politics and government. To learn more about other accounts and stories click connected to Mapes & Madigan here.

Mapes is facing perjury charges based on testimony he gave to the Grand Jury, so the trial has featured recordings of conversations on many topics including the ways I and others tried to ensure that Madigan and his enablers were held accountable for the abusive behavior that pervaded his organization. Madigan will face his own trial.

More than anything else, as I reflect on that time and what has happened since, I am so thankful to the folks who told me their stories, whether they decided to come forward or not. I still see many of them around the Capitol and hope that the changes we’ve brought about collectively stick and continue to improve our workplace. Testimony this week featured several mentions of how the Speaker’s team attempted to survive the multiple sexual harassment and bullying scandals. 

The trial is expected to last another couple of weeks, so I’ll probably have more to share as it continues. Meanwhile, as we prepare to return for Veto Session in the fall in an effort to get a few things across the finish line, the Governor today issued a few veto messages that will ensure at least a bit of excitement as sponsors decide whether to accept requested changes or fight to pass their bills over the Governor’s veto. A good analysis of the bill action is here.

Most notable is the Governor’s veto of the bill that would have lifted the moratorium on construction of new nuclear facilities in the state. We heard from many constituents in opposition to the bill and I was proud to stand with the Green Caucus in voting no. The bill passed both chambers by a veto-proof majority, so the effort now will be to find enough people to change their vote to prevent the bill from becoming law. I’ve already been in contact with environmental leadership and expect to be busy soon helping to activate constituents around the state to push for a no vote on the attempt to override Governor Pritzker’s veto.

I’ll be back in the saddle next week (see what I did there?). In the meantime, I’ll share a little of the mountain beauty we’re enjoying.

CPS School Supply Drive

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:

• District Office (1507 W. Morse) Tues-Thurs 9am-5pm
• Women & Children First (5233 N. Clark) Tues-Sun 11am-6pm
• R Public House (1508 W. Jarvis) Mon-Thurs 3pm-10pm; Friday 3pm-12am; Saturday & Sunday 10am-12am

School Supply List: https://bit.ly/CPSList24

Ald. Hadden Back to School Bash Event

Join Alderwoman Hadden, the 24th District Community Policing Office, and the offices of Rep. Cassidy and Senator Simmons on Saturday for a Back to School Event! Community members can obtain free backpacks and other school supplies! There will also be free food, fun activities for kids, and resources from local organizations. Join us at Touhy Park (7348 N. Paulina) on August 12th from 11AM-1PM.

Seeking Part-Time Constituent Advocate

The District Office of State Representative Kelly Cassidy is seeking an energetic, organized and policy minded part-timer in our Chicago District office. We are looking for a flexible individual who can interact in a fast-paced environment. For more information click here to read the job description.

Secretary Giannoulias' Launches Skip the Line Program

Secretary Giannoulias Announces Skip-the-Line Program at High-Volume DMVs 

Appointments and new extended hours are part of the new initiative to save customers’ time. 

In an effort to improve customer service and eliminate the unpredictability of wait times at Illinois DMVs, Secretary of State Alexi Giannoulias will implement the Skip-the-Line program on September 1. 

• Required appointments will reduce wait times. 
• Extended hours offer more availability. 
• ILSOS.gov offers a variety of services that do not require an in-person visit to a facility or office. 

The Skip-the-Line Program includes: 

Appointment scheduling — Customers will be required to make appointments for in-person visits at 44 of the busiest DMVs. All Chicago and suburban locations and select central and downstate DMVs will require an appointment for REAL IDs, driver’s licenses and ID card services, and in-car driving tests. 

New extended hours of operation — Every DMV will extend hours of operation beginning September 1.

Select facilities will be open six days a week – Monday through Saturday. 

All DMVs will have hours of operation from Mon-Fri, 8 a.m.-5:30 p.m. 

16 DMVs will be open on Saturday, 8 a.m.-12:30 p.m. 

(Please visit ilsos.gov for location information.) 

Illinois State Fair

The Illinois State Fair is here and it has a lot to offer! From carnival rides, farm animals, arts and crafts, to the Butter Cow, there is fun for the entire family. Don't miss performances from Tim McGraw, REO Speedwagon, and more! Admissions information, the full Grandstand lineup, the daily schedule, a Fairgrounds map, and more can be found here.

When: August 10th-20th from 7am-Midnight

Where: Illinois State Fairgrounds (801 Sangamon Ave, Springfield IL)

Cook County Small Business Source Grant 2023

The 2023 Source Grant has launched! The Cook County Small Business Source proudly introduces The 2023 Source Grant, which will provide $40 million in grants to small businesses to help stabilize operations, foster recovery and resilience, and advance equity in a post-pandemic economy. Apply through their online form before August 18, 2022. Please click the above link for more information about qualifications for the grant.

Neo-Futurists Scholarships for POC Artists

Discover your artistic potential with Open Scholarships at The Neo-Futurists! Calling all BIPOC artists seeking community and education. Join the AOC Scholar cohort for fiscal year 2024 and embrace an enriching experience (September 2023-2024). Apply between August 1st and August 31st for a chance to win full tuition ($300) for the Intro to Writing & Performing the 2-Minute Play class, exclusive access to Neo-Futurist shows, and engaging AOC Scholar Nights. Connect with like-minded creatives and grow your talents. For inquiries, reach out to Education Lead Abby Pajakowski at education@neofuturists.org. Don't miss this opportunity to thrive!

Neighborhood Shoutouts

DOGS: Social Beings Exhibit is Open in Andersonville

Photographer Lesley Ames' first exhibition opens at RAYGUN Andersonville August 2 - August 30. The opening exhibition highlights Lesley Ames, the photographer behind Stan's Photo, a pet portrait studio that finds inspiration in a dog's wild spirit, unique personality and soulful gaze. The exhibit introduces the launch of her new project, The Dogs of Andersonville, which aims to photograph one hundred dogs of Andersonville and tell the story of the social beings that connect us as humans and neighbors, making the neighborhood one of the friendliest in the world. She will also pop up her studio at RAYGUN on August 12, where you can schedule a portrait of your furry best friend. For more information, visit stansphoto.com.

In the District

22nd Annual Glenwood Ave Arts Fest

Come out to the 22nd annual Glenwood Ave. Arts Fest on Saturday, August 19th from 11AM-9PM and Sunday, August 20th from 11AM-7PM. Located at 6900 N/1400 W blocks, entry is free. The festival features over 130 artists, 2 stages, 24 bands, and plenty of local food and drink.

For more information, click here.

Back-to-School Birth Certificates

With the first day of school fast approaching, the Cook County Clerk’s Office will be offering extended weekend hours on select Saturdays in August for families seeking to obtain birth certificates to complete their child’s registration for school, sports, extracurricular activities, etc. 

The Back-to-School Birth Certificate Day will be on Saturday, August 19, from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Clerk’s Office locations in Markham, Maywood, and downtown Chicago. 

Chicago's office hours will be at 118 N. Clark St., Room 120, Chicago, IL 60602. For more information, please click here. 

Midsommer Flight Free Shakespeare Showing

Howard Area Community Center is offering free English and GED classes. Online, in-person, and one-on-one options are available. For more information, contact Moon Parker at mparker@howardarea.org or Katherine Erickson at kerickson@howardarea.org. 

Volunteers for Day of Dignity

Day of Dignity is a community-driven initiative that aims to promote compassion, support, and empowerment for those in need. By joining them as a volunteer, you will play a crucial role in making a positive impact and creating a day filled with joy and hope for our community. This year’s Day of Dignity is August 26 from 9AM-4PM at Sullivan High School (6631 N. Bosworth).

To sign up as a volunteer, please fill out this interest form here. If you have any questions or require further information, please do not hesitate to call at 773-620-2698.

LSSI's Second Annual Overdose Awareness Resource Fair

LSSI is hosting its 2nd annual Overdose Awareness Resources Fair on September 7th from 11am-2pm at the Kenmore Treatment Center at 5517 N Kenmore. Go check out all of their offerings and learn how to keep our community healthy.

Youth and Teens

DFSS Community Services Block Grant

The Department of Family and Support Services (DFSS) is now accepting applications for their 2023 Community Services Block Grant (CSBG) Scholarship Program.

The CSBG scholarship program provides financial assistance to Chicago residents attending post-secondary education programs during the fall semester of 2023 and has minimum income requirements to meet the eligibility criteria. DFSS is dedicated and committed to making resources available to residents that build stability, support their well-being, and empower them to thrive.

Applications must be received by DFSS via the web-based CSBG Scholarship Application Platform on Friday, August 25, 2023, by 5:00 p.m. 

Please click here to access the application platform. 

Additionally, DFSS will host webinars on August 2nd and August 9th at 10:00 a.m to relay more information on the scholarship. To register for a webinar, applicants should email their choice of date and time to: DFSScsbgscholarship@cityofchicago.org.

Job Resources

Illinois Department of Employment and Northside American Job Center Job Fair 8/23

The Illinois Department of Employment and Northside American Job Center (NAJC) at Truman College are hosting a job fair on August 23th, 2023 from 10AM-2PM at Truman College, located at 1145 W. Wilson. Interested candidates must register at https://bit.ly/3XJi0kH. All questions can be directed to NAJC at 773-334-4747.

Edgewater Chamber of Commerce Executive Director Position

Chicago Public Schools is hosting a CPS Job Fair at St. Sabina - McMahon Hall (1210 West 78th Place, Chicago, IL 60620) on August 24. Please see the above flyer for more information and available positions. To register

Chicago Public Schools is Hiring!

Chicago Public Schools is hiring for multiple positions, including lunchroom managers, city wide bus monitors, board custodians, cooks, bus aides, and more. Please click here or scan one of the above QR codes for more information.

Cook County Health Job Fair

Cook County Health is having a jobs fair! They are hiring for several different positions including Registered Nurses and Certified Surgical Technologists. For information or to apply, go to https://cookcountyhealth.org/join-our-team/.

When: Wednesday, August 16th from 9am-3pm

Where: CCH Professional Building (1950 W Polk Street, 5th Floor, Chicago, IL)

CTA's Second Chance Program

The CTA's Second Chance is hiring! If interested, complete a survey of interest at https://transitchicago.questionpro.com/CTASecondChanceProgram. All job seekers who complete a Second Chance Program interest survey and meet eligibility requirements will then be invited to attend a direct recruitment event.

Sincerely,

Kelly Cassidy

State Representative, 14th District



Office of State Representative Kelly Cassidy

1507 W. Morse Ave

Chicago IL 60626