Past EESP Events

Past EESP Events, Annual Accomplishments, Photos & Flyers

These photos are compiled from shots taken at various sites in Edgewater as well as a collection of events throughout the years hosted by EESP (all volunteer driven):

Events & Activities - 2021

Town Hall Tuesdays:
Where are we now? What can we do in 2021? What can we do in the long-term?

Waste Town Hall: Tuesday, January 26th at 7:00pm. Discuss Chicago's waste collection, recycling, reuse, and regeneration. Join industry leaders including Megan (Walton) Conway of the Delta Institute, Carter O'Brien of Chicago Recycling Coalition, Stephanie Katsaros of Bright Beat and Chicago Sustainability Task Force, and community innovators Erlene Howard of Collective Resource Compost, Nance Klehm of Spontaneous Vegetation, and Joanne Rodriquez of Mycocycle, and others, as we discuss old and new ways of managing and minimizing our individual and collective waste.

If you would like to watch the recording or share it with friends, the video is available here.

List of Speakers:
Megan Conway, https://delta-institute.org/, mwalton@delta-institute.org
Abigail Sullivan (asullivan@igchicago.org) and Justin Gutierrez (jgutierrez@igchicaho.org) from the Inspector General’s Office
Carter O'Brien, https://www.chicagorecyclingcoalition.org/
Stephanie Katsaros, https://brightbeat.com/about/
Erlene Howard, https://collectiveresource.us/
Nance Klehm, https://socialecologies.net/about/, info@socialecologies.net
Joanne Rodriguez, https://mycocycle.com/, joanne@mycocycle.com

Events & Activities - 2020

2020 Activity Highlights

10 Year Anniversary Since First Climate Plan
10 Year Accomplishments Documented
10 Year Poster board
10 Year Brochure
Development Of A New Name, Edgewater Environmental Coalition, Mission, Vision, and Tagline For A New Era!
Joined Democratize ComEd Campaign
Declared Climate Emergency
Created And Instituted A Indigenous Land Acknowledgement
Became An Edgewater Chamber Of Commerce Member
Documented Organizational Principles & Protocols
Signed On To Public Interest Research Group Campaign To Hold Gas Utilities Accountable
Signed On To Ready For 100, No To New Diesel Buses, Letter
First Ever Internship Program, Interns: Mia And Bilguun!
Bi-monthly Newsletters
Monthly & Quarterly Meetings
New Member Orientations
New format for the annual summary of accomplishments

Taking The Show On The Road

North Side Virtual Environmental Town Hall With Illinois Environmental Council And The 47th Ward
Exhibitor At The Edgewater Essentials Forum
Meetings With Christina Pfitzinger, Executive Director Edgewater Chamber Of Commerce
Meetings With Harry Osterman, 48th Ward Alderman
Earth Day 50 Collaboration With Women & Children First
Bi-Annual Food & Plant Distribution With Loyola Urban Agriculture And Care For Real
Membership In The North Lake Shore Drive Redefine The Drive Taskforce
Public Comments In City Council And In The Committee On Energy & The Environment

Sharing The Green Dream

Winter Solstice Celebration
ABC News Segment On Litter Free Edgewater
Green Buildings 2-sheeter
Freedcamp Project Management Integration
Slack Workspace Created
Linkedin Page Created

Campaigns & Projects

Waste Issues
Housing & Preservation Issues
Black-owned Edgewater Businesses Resource Sheet
Litter Free Edgewater Campaign
Treekeepers Tree Planting
Metra Sustainable & Green Advocacy & Oversight
CTA Sustainable & Green Advocacy & Oversight
Open, Green Space And Public Health For Covid Times Letter Campaign
Urban Forest Advisory Board Advocacy & Resolution In Support
Northern Terminus Of Redefine The Drive Sustainable Transportation Advocacy
Preventing Bird Strikes Educational Resource
LED Street Lights Education & Coordination
High Rise Composting Plan
Native Plant Signage Education
Preservation Of Ken Nordine House

Events

Digital Sustainability Fair
Monthly Litter Free Clean Ups
Pumpkin Smash Composting Event
Vedgewater Clean Up
Osterman/Hollywood Beach Stewardship Days
Power Up Series With Ready For 100
48th Ward Community Clean-up Days Collaboration
Sanctuary Sessions: Grow Your Own Native And Heirloom Plants
Co-sponsor Of Democratize Comed Virtual Town Hall
Waste Not Want Not At 6018north
Water Music On The Beach

Numbers

50 Spider Plants Donated
Hundreds Of Sunchokes Distributed
100~ Plugs Distributed
252 Pumpkin Smash Attendees Brought A Total Of 478 Pumpkins at 2.27 Tons
4 Beach Stewardship Days
9 Litter Free Clean Ups
44 Litter Free Blockheads
Current Mailing List: 426
Slack Members: 20
Discussion Forum Members: 38
Facebook Follows: 729
Instagram Followers: 336
LinkedIn Followers: 28

Financials

   $4300 from Environmental Law And Policy Center Covid Response Grant
   $500 Beach Stewardship Grant From Overhead Project
   $500 Native Plant Signs from Chicago Conservation Corps and Overhead Project
   $1021 Sustainability Fair from Meeting Tomorrow & Chicago Conservation Corps
   $420 Pumpkin Smash from Overhead Project & Chicago Conservation Corps

Bank Account Ending 2020: $5,374.81

2020 Pumpkin Smash

Don't Trash it, Smash it!: The Pumpkin Smash is an annual waste reduction and education effort by communities in Illinois first begun by SCARCE (https://www.scarce.org/) in 2014. It diverts pumpkins from landfills by providing locations for residents to drop them off for composting. It is held each year on the Saturday after Halloween.

Among its many initiatives, EESP works to reduce waste and increase recycling throughout Edgewater. EESP had its first annual Pumpkin Smash this year (under CDC regulation). The event was a major success and an opportunity to educate residents about the many advantages of composting, such as reducing waste sent to landfills, reducing greenhouse gas emissions, and reducing the amount of water in landfills, which risks contamination. We had a total of 252 attendees bringing approximately 500 pumpkins!

Events & Activities - 2019

Waste Reduction: EESP is working on a strategic initiative to improve our waste reduction efforts to reduce, reuse, and recycle. We hope to collaborate with the Chicago Recycling Coalition; as well as the new re-created city Department of the Environment and other partners that can help us help our city to move forward in this important area. Renee Patten & Killian Walsh are coordinating the effort for EESP. To participate contact Renee at: patten.renee@gmail.com
*Note:You can find more information on our plans and actions here: Waste Not Want Not Event Recap & Follow-Up
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Habitat Preservation
Osterman Beach Clean Up on October 12th and Native Planting Follow Up on November 17th
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Montrose Point Bird Sanctuary: Letter to CPD
September 26, 2019
Avis LaVelle                                        Michael Kelly    James Cappleman
President                                            General Supervisor and CEO Alderman 46th Ward
Chicago Park District Chicago Park District

The Edgewater Environmental Sustainability Project (EESP) supports and recommends a continuing moratorium of large-scale music venues at the Montrose section of Lincoln Park.
This section of Lincoln Park is home to the Chicago Park District’s gem, the Montrose Point Bird Sanctuary (MPBS).   This bird sanctuary is located just a mile south of our formal EESP boundary, and is deeply appreciated and enjoyed by many citizens in our Edgewater Community.
This section of Lincoln Park is very active and used for many family and citizen events throughout the summer.   Other citizens with modest income use this park as the venue for their summer vacation.
MPBS is on its own timetable with migrating or mating bird species traveling through every year. Rare birds have flown to Chicago because of changing weather pattern, such as the Arctic Owl.
During the summer of 2019 our Chicago beaches experienced extreme high-water levels. Meanwhile, the birding community watched the dynamics of birds breeding during heavy rainstorms. It took over 100 volunteers, several of which were from Edgewater, to make sure the Piping Plovers, Monty and Rose, navigated the flooding and obstacles for their nest and fledglings.
As suddenly as the rain fell, the Mamby Festival was a speeding train from the July announcement to the day of event.   These 4 weeks were a crucial time for the Plovers. After a flurry of conversations and articles it was determined that this was not an appropriate location.    We are thankful for this decision.
EESP encourages you to examine the future of park use and the associated wildlife impacts. Ward offices typically are not staffed with scientists and several have shown that it is difficult for them to assess the impact of large-scale music events on the patches of wildlife in their community.
Please direct all EESP correspondence on this concern to Killian Walsh, 5231 North Winthrop, Apt 1S, Chicago, IL 60640.   Phone 773-386-4565    email: killianwalsh@hotmail.com
Thank you for your thoughtful consideration of this request.

Allen Stryczek                                     Tricia Van Eck                                    Brian Haag
                                                    EESP General Co-Chairs
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GoEdgewater 2019 Tours:
We hope everyone who took advantage of these interesting & fun tours will join us again next year. Also, please keep track of other area bike events posted on the GoEdgewater facebook page. Keep safe as you bike!

Tuesday, Sept. 3rd: West Ridge Nature Preserve Biking Tour. This is a fairly new 23 acre pond & wildlife preserve, in the heart of the neighborhood so its wildlife, birds, plants and trees are still settling & evolving.

Wednesday, August 28 Biking tour with the Edgewater Historical Society, focused on turn-of-the-century buildings between the 5500 and 6100 blocks of Kenmore Avenue and Winthrop Avenue.

Sunday, August 25th; Water Music on the Beach 6018 North Avenue sponsored Water Music on the Beach walking tour which is an annual series of live performances that highlights Chicago’s proximity to Lake Michigan. It included a group of female artists who brought a collaboratively-made hourglass quilt to Lane Beach at Thorndale & Sheridan. Walkers joined them through the day to sew as various artists performed throughout the afternoon

Monday, August 19th; Lakefront Biking Tour - Touring the bike path along Lake Michigan with stops to view areas of interest

Walking tour, Monday, August 5. Toured Loyola’s award-winning “Institute of Environmental Sustainability” at 6349 North Kenmore; their biodiesel lab, their geothermal capabilities and the urban agriculture area. Later the group walked west to Uncommon Ground at 1401 W. Devon for a presentation on their organic rooftop farm.
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EdgeFest
Saturday, August 3; 12Noon to 10 PM and Sunday, August 4, 12 Noon to 9 PM.   EESP member Linda Gaddis once again helped with recycling cans, plastic bottles, and glass bottles at the event. Over 10,000 items were collected. Thanks Linda & her crew of volunteers.
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EGA Garden Walk:
Sunday, July 14, 2019 from 12:00-5:00 pm, Gardens in the 1200 & 1300 blocks of Edgewater Glen were on display for the 46th Annual EGA Garden Walk EESP has members who are part of EGA and we salute their efforts to plant native species as well as encouraging poison free gardening habits.
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EESPs Living Treasure:
Saturday, June 8, 2019; at the Edgewater Library, 6200 Broadway, 2nd Floor Betty Barclay Room, EESP general co-chair Tricia Van Eck was one of the recipients of the Edgewater Historical Society “Living Treasure Award” for 2019.
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Habitat Preservation
Sunday, June 9, 2019 at Osterman Beach (also known as Hollywood/Ardmore Beach), Renee Patten coordinated the second of six “Stewardship Days” focusing on cleaning and restoring the natural areas of this beach. Volunteers meet just east of Ardmore and Sheridan turnaround entrance. For info on future stewardship days, contact Renee Patten at ostermanbeachnaturalarea@gmail.com
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Corner Garden Grants for 2019 Awarded: As in the past, $100 grants were approved for gardeners who plant & maintain corners or circles on streets within Edgewater. Applicants were approved & mentored by Kim Kaulus, a local landscape professional. The aim is to beautify neighborhood areas with environmentally friendly plantings, including native species and encourage volunteer community action.
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Waste Reduction / The New EESP Strategic Initiative for 2019:
On Tuesday, May 14th at 6018|North (6018 N. Kenmore) a group met regarding Recycling. EESP led the attendees in the talk for On The Table as they create Action Memos for Mayor Lightfoot. The initiative will be continued under a new EESP committee dedicated to Waste Reduction.
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Earth Week - April 22 thru April 28th, 2019
     *Earth Day: Monday, April 22nd; Do your green thing in your own space or with a neighbor; 6:30 pm. go to Loyola's screening of an Earth Day Special "The Happening" at Damien Center Cinema. Seating starts at 6:00 pm.
   *Arbor Day, Friday April 26th; Senn High School will host two free tree plantings 9:00 am Front Lawn
   *Spring Green & Clean: Saturday, April 27th 9 to Noon. Volunteer with 48th Ward Alderman At 1:00 pm Senn High    School -Fun & interactive Arts Pageant; 2:30 pm. Citizens Climate Lobby presentation at Edgewater Library;
*Kathy Osterman Beach - Sunday, April 28th native plantings of 1500 species provided by the Chicago Park District.
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Friday, Jan 18, 2019; Zoning – EHS and EESP at City Hall zoning board variance meeting regarding Loyola / 6300 Winthrop. Meeting with the Zoning Board was unsuccessful in deterring the demolition of the buildings.
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Wednesday, January 23, 2019; 1:30 pm at the Broadway Armory – Linda Gaddis partnered with the Edgewater Village senior group to present “Baby, It’s Cold Outside” sharing information on energy tips and efficiencies.
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Thursday, January 24, 2019 10 am Alderman Osterman gathered representatives from EHS, EESP & Loyola to discuss Loyola's development plans for the long term.

2018 Activities and Accomplishments
Development of a new strategic plan “Sharing the Green Dream”. The Institute of Cultural Affairs donated a 4 session strategic planning process on Saturdays in January and February and March.   The resulting 45 page plan “Sharing the Green Dream” encouraged EESP to better reach out to our historic and new potential partners, and to enhance our communications plan.   We renewed contacts with both the 40th and 48th Ward Alderman, our State Senator our State Representative, and the Edgewater and Andersonville Chambers of Commerce. We enhanced our contacts with the Edgewater Block Clubs, the Edgewater Community Religious Association and with Loyola’s Institute for Environmental Sustainability. We hosted a couple of evening meetings, and we also now have phone-in capability to our monthly EESP meetings.   As a result of these efforts our regular email list grew from about 64 in early 2018 to 162 at the end of the year.    About 15-20 concerned citizens actively participate in our second Wednesday of the month meetings.

New EESP Flyers and Promotions   We developed new flyers promoting EESP while encouraging our neighbors to plant. We were gifted with a handsome trifold “The Road to Energy Savings” guide for homeowners with our EESP logo. We now regularly used both Facebook and Instagram to promote our activities.

EESP Leadership Change Anne Comeau and Tom Murphy stepped aside after 10 years of EESP leadership service, while still continuing to richly contributing to our EESP progress in many ways. Tricia Van Eck of 6018North and Brian Haag of Greeen Element Resale have stepped up to their new roles in EESP leadership. Allen Stryczek continues to round out the trio form of leadership we have had in place since our inception in 2008.   Brian Haag hosted our first ever EESP holiday celebration in December.

Clean and Green Day with Electronic Recycling - Saturday, April 21 - 9 am to Noon   EESP lead several of the approximately 10 groups doing cleanup in Edgewater.    Rep Kelly Cassidy also had an electronic recycling (no CRT televisions or computer monitors accepted) event that day.

Go Edgewater 2018 EESP continued the educational biking and walking tours that encouraged learning about the neighborhood, shopping at local businesses and enjoying the history & diversity of the community. Tours as follows:
            West Ridge Nature Center overview                June 13            (EESP piggybacking off an Edgewater Village event)
            West Ridge Nature Center walk                       June 20            (ESSP piggybacking off an Edgewater Village event)
            Bike Path separation ride to Theatre on Lake   June 28            (in conjunction with an ATA event)
            Loyola Institute of Environmental Sustainability July 25            (biodiesel lab, urban ag area, & geothermal system)
Edgewater Arts Tour                                        Aug   11           (Alderman Osterman event)
            EHS Wednesday Garden Night                        Aug   22           (From the Thorndale El Station to EHS Museum)
             Water Music at the Beach                                Sept    9           (Starting at 6018North to Lane Beach/Thorndale)

Corner/Circle Garden Grants 2018 Five $100. grants were awarded in 2018 to plant new parkway corners. Congratulations to the approved gardeners, and thanks to Kim Kaulas who helped them design and plant these beautiful sustainable corners. A slide show of the corners planted can be found on our website under Parks.

Finances    We value our partnership with the Overhead Project which provides EESP with a 501c3 point for potential donors and which finances our corners grants program.   We maintain a modest balance of about $500.

Arbor Day, Friday, April 27th The students, teachers, parents and neighbors of Senn HS and Northside Catholic Academy elementary school each planted a tree, performed songs and created posters about the benefit trees bring to our planet. The trees were donated by Gethsemane Garden Center. EESP also hosted a neighborhood tree walk which included the historic (over 100 years old) elm tree at 1436 Berwyn. These were uplifting events for all who attended.

Tree Collaboration Efforts with the 48th and 40th Wards
We supported and thanked the 48th Ward Alderman for planting over 150 common area trees in 2018 with menu money.   We encouraged concerned citizens in the 5800 block of Paulina in their efforts to work with the 40th Ward Alderman to consider alternatives to the potential destruction of 14 mature trees when putting in new water mains on that block.

48th Ward Participation   A 48th Ward representative regularly shared updates on various topics including the energy benchmarking ordinance, tree plantings, the heritage tree ordinance, the lakefront path separation, clean and green day, and lead testing in city water pipes.   The 48th Ward also supported a major renovation of the Cedar Playlot.

40th Ward Participation A 40th Ward representative regularly shared updates on various topics including the status of the Metra Station at Peterson as well as demolition progress at the former Edgewater Medical Center site and considerations for redevelopment.

Loyola Collaborations Loyola’s Institute for Environmental Studies (IES) once again was a major partner with EESP.   The Urban Ag program provided end of spring semester plants for several Edgewater religious congregations, schools and an Edgewater plant exchange. We showed the Loyola student video “Lungs of the City” at a special EESP evening event.   Student projects included a survey of the cleaning practices of fast food restaurants, noting some of the environmental sustainability practices of these corporations, and producing a creative video showing receptivity to customers bringing their own take out packaging.

6312 and 6330 Winthrop Preservation Attempt EESP partnered with the Edgewater Historical Society (EHS), members of the Edgewater Community Association (ECRA), ONE Northside and over 600 community and student signers to encourage Loyola to preserve a single family home built in 1912 and a 63 unit common corridor building built in the 1920s while still moving forward with the Loyola desire to build a new 400 unit student dorm for sophomores.   We offered alternatives, wrote letters to Loyola’s president, distributed flyers, hosted a silk-screening event for Loyola students, and held a protest in front of the buildings which attracted 3 major Chicago TV stations as well as the Tribune and Sun Times.

Edgewater Chamber of Commerce and Green Business Development In partnership with CCC, EESP helped with the recycling of over 10,000 beer cans at the August Edgefest event. We explored options for the development of a green business program in Edgewater.. Greener Cleaners made a presentation on their sustainable business practices

NCA Green Team   We encouraged and supported the successful launch of this group that now has a monthly meeting with a growing group of parents from NorthSide Catholic Academy. During the course of the years, they worked on several community cleaning events.   Their leader also regularly advocated for the Citizens Climate Lobby “carbon fee and dividend” proposal – both at the NCA Green Team meetings and at our EESP gatherings.

Senn High School Green Improvements    We applaud Senn High Schools multi-faceted program for improvements, and identified resources to help develop and review environmental sustainability proposals.

Lead Contamination review   We reviewed major sources of lead contamination – and noted that lead in paint is more dangerous than the water from the city water pipes.   We shared our findings with the State Senator and with the Illinois Environmental Association.   The cost to change city water pipes is about $7,000 per household.

Lake Shore Drive Task Force EESP regularly attended meetings in which the northern end of Lake Shore Drive was addressed.   We also sent a letter to the US Army Corps of Engineers to successfully reject a proposal for a plastic play park at Montrose Beach.

Lake Front Path Separation   While we applauded the concept of the separation of the bike and walking paths along the lakefront, we also expressed our concerns on the lighting, signage, and ADA aspects of the implementation with the Park District and Alderman Osterman’s staff. We look forward to suggested improvements being implemented in 2019.

Stewardship Days at Osterman Beach   We supported several Chicago Conservation Corps (CCC) stewardship day efforts at Ardmore/Osterman Beach.    New native plants were planted and maintained during the course of the year.

Beachfront and Community Cleanup   We encouraged and supported the photo-documentation of litter problems at Osterman Beach and beyond, and worked to develop a network, including the Chambers of Commerce, the Sierra Club, and Friends of the Great Lakes, which are committed to help improve this situation.

Edgewater Village   We encouraged CCC to host environmental events with the Edgewater Village community seniors.

Sierra Club Future Visioning Event   We held a special one evening event with the Sierra Club as part of their efforts to encourage widespread consideration of environmental concerns. This attracted not only Edgewater citizens, but also Loyola students and some from Rogers Park.

Rogers Park Environmental Group EESP welcomed the periodic participation of this newly forming group, and shared ideas and event opportunities with them.   The Rogers Park Food Coop also made periodic presentations about their formation, and several EESP attendees have become members.

2017
Energy Benchmarking for Large Buildings:   At the November EESP meeting, the members vote unanimously to support the Mayor's initiative for a four star rating on the energy efficiency of large buildings. The group felt the ratings should be displayed publicly for buyers & renters to have that information. Later in the month, it was announced the measure passed city council.

Climate Change Workshop: Tuesday October 17th 6:30-8:30 Broadway Armory  The focus of the workshop was to provide residents with information on how to become energy efficient and reduce costs. Discussion also involved renewable energy and how the clean job bill will help meet environmental and sustainability goals as well as be an economic plus and add new jobs.

Citizens Climate Lobby:  EESP Member George Tully provided the following summary of their goals and asked that EESP consider supporting these efforts by providing this information to the public via our minutes and website. Members voted and the motion to support passed unanimously:

"Citizens' Climate Lobby is a non-partisan, grass roots organization advocating for a national policy of Carbon Fee & Dividend. This legislation would place a steadily rising fee on fossil fuels, collected upstream at the well, mine, or port of entry. It would then take 100% of net revenue and distribute it equally to households in the form of a monthly check. For a more in depth view, here is an extensive FAQ.
CCL volunteers meet with virtually every member of the U.S. Senate and House of Representatives multiple times per year about this legislation, and have been told there’s building momentum in Washington (although we are certainly not without our obstacles). We are particularly proud of our role in helping to form the Climate Solutions Caucus. Bipartisan by design, we currently have 26 House Republicans and 26 Democrats and we expect that number to grow. This New York Times article goes into more detail on our work on a national scale.
In Chicago this group has been working with aldermen to introduce a city resolution this fall supporting CF&D. New volunteers are welcome. If interested click on the website link shown in the first paragraph."

Electronic Recycling 2017 - Saturday, September 9th; 9 am to Noon Co-hosted with the 48 Ward. Drop off at the 48th Ward Streets & Sanitation yard at 5833 N. Broadway. (Did not accept TVs or Cathode Ray Monitors)

GUIDELINES FOR SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT  Following a unanimous vote of approval by EESP members, Guidelines for Sustainable Development were provided to Alderman Osterman (48th Ward) on August 15, 2017. The guidelines were set up to provide the Alderman with a negotiating tool with developers of new and refurbished buildings. (See the Planning & Development page for the full set of guidelines)

Go Edgewater 2017 Continued the educational biking and walking tours that encouraged learning about the neighborhood, shopping at local businesses and enjoying the history & diversity of the community. For information on the type of tours conducted, check the flyer in the slide section of Past Events. Like the Go Edgewater facebook page and help plan for 2018.

Corner/Parkway Garden Grants 2017   Five $100. grants were awarded in 2017 to plant new parkway corners. Congratulations to the approved gardeners. And thanks to Kim Kaulas who will help them design and plant these beautiful sustainable corners. For a slide show view of current and past corners planted, check the Parks link.

Earth Day & Clean & Green:  Saturday April 22nd:  Was celebrated with the community working together on projects throughout Edgewater/Andersonville. EESP volunteers, Block Clubs, Park Groups, Schools, Faith Organizations and public officials are all represented..

Arbor Day, Friday, April 28th:   The students, teachers, parents and neighbors of Swift elementary school planted a a red maple tree, performed songs and created posters about the benefit trees bring to our planet. The tree was donated by Gethsemene Garden Center. It was an uplifting event for all who attended.

Lead Contamination and Dealing with it February 11th, 1:00-2:30 Edgewater Library 6000 N. Broadway
The Problems of Lead in the Water, in Soil and in the Home, and How to Deal with Them. Presenters outlined the issues and methods of dealing with lead. New legislation was reviewed.Sponsored by: EESP, Senator Heather Steans, Representative Kelly Cassidy, Alderman Harry Osterman

Effective 2/1/17 Bring Your Own Bag - Avoid the $.07 Tax (.05 to the city; .02 to the store)
EESP has continuously championed the notion that everyone should bring their own bags when shopping. In August 2016 the first step was an ordinance requiring certain big box stores to stop using flimsy plastic bags. Stores offered heavy plastic and paper while selling re-useable bags. Gradually consumers have begun bringing their own re-useable bags but not in enough numbers. In order to create a stronger impetus and to raise funds, the city has adopted a $.07 tax when a reusable bag is not brought into the store. The tax applies to paper or plastic. There are exemptions See the flier under the heading Projects>Reduce/ReUse/Recyle.

Mid-Level Building Recycling Project (EESP, ENN and Loyola collaboration) Effective 2/1/17 buildings over 4 units will be fined if they do not recycle. The building has 30 days to comply once they are reported and lack of compliance noted. There are fines then applied. EESP and Loyola will survey buildings in the ENN block club and will work with the 48th Ward to take the next steps. Confrontation is not desired, but assistance and working toward expanding recycling. If successful, the project may be expanded.

Ridge Avenue Planters and Parkways Ridge Avenue from Broadway to Clark has had work performed on the water lines and will soon have a new park installed near the refurbished firehouse. More action is needed to beautify and improve the traffic flow on this highway. The EESP team will discuss options and issues with Block Club representative and the Alderman.

Solar Initiative (2016-17) Seamus Fitzgerald has organized an LLC and raised funding to support a rotating loan for non profits who wish to install solar. A well known, experienced solar installer is also on board. The Edgewater Historical Society leadership expressed interest and in April 2017 signed a contract with the Overhead Project, LLC and a Solar Company to provide a loan for a solar array. The loan will be repaid with the savings realized.

2016
EESP Members Vote on Diesel Fuel Emission Reduction: In the September 14, 2016 meeting, members voted unanimously to support an amendment to the Chicago City Council Diesel Contracting Ordinance. The change proposes to significantly cut the emission of fine air particulates from diesel engines –a major health risk. A letter specifying EESPs support has been sent to Edgewater's Aldermen.

Garbage Collection Grid Pilot Project (Project on Hold with Changes in Andersonville Executive Team) Andersonville & EESP collaborated on the groundwork. EESPs intern did an analysis of a few blocks in the Andersonville area (business and private alleys) to determine if a pilot should be pursued in order to reduce the amount of overlapping truck traffic by large garbage haulers. Objective: Improve air quality, reduce wear and tear on the streets and alleyways paid for by taxpayers. Andersonville Chamber sent a survey to businesses involved. The sample responses were favorable but contractual issues with carriers were seen as a stumbling block. More long term work was needed and the matter was tabled early 2017

West Ridge Nature Preserve - An EESP representative is a Board Officer of the West Ridge Nature Preserve, and other EESP members were involved in formation of the PAC.

Lights In our Own Back Yard: EESP volunteers have conducted a survey of building, parks and other areas in Edgewater that use lights inefficiently - either on in daylight or lights left on at night in closed buildings (not including emergency lighting).

Go Edgewater 2016 held a series of informative bike rides and walks which introduced great places in Edgewater and Andersonville. Theme: Enjoy your neighborhood, meet new friends, shop locally and keep the air clean. Here are the ride and walking events that occurred in 2016.

June 21st Edgewater Beach Hotel & Lakefront Tour
June 28th West Ridge Nature Preserve Tour
July 5th Bike Tour and Mulberry Tree Picking then Sampling of Home Made Preserves
July 12th Edgewater Theatres Bike Tour
July 19th Lakefront Natural Areas Bike Tour
July 26th Local Brewery Bike Tour
August 2nd Green & Blue Environmental Sites Walking Tour Loyola>Devon:Uncommon Ground
August 9th Edgewater Boundaries Tour
August 17th Walking Tour to Foster Beach - Full Moon Fire Jam

Corner & Circle Beautification Grants: Status August 2016 - Several $100 grants were awarded. Kim Kaulas managed the process for EESP. Information on the application process and a flier was released via social media and ward newsletter. Funds donated by Rep. Kelly Cassidy, Sen Heather Steans & The Overhead Project. The slideshow of the beautiful grant corners can be found under Projects>Parks at the bottom of the page. Thanks to the participants for their hard work and dedication in improving the environment and beautifying the neighborhood!

Ridge Avenue - Neighborhood/CDOT Assessment Walk: June 2.   Alderman Osterman invited officials from CDOT to walk Ridge with neighbors, EESP volunteers and reps of various block clubs. The focus was on changing this high speed/high volume highway to a more pedestrian friendly, less polluting and safer transit point.  There will be traffic studies, but the group involved will remain organized to follow through on the points raised. In addition, a new park will be developed next to the old Firehouse (Ridge & Wayne), replacing a deteriorating one story structure.

Clean & Green, April 16th Neighbors & Loyola students pitched in on local projects celebrating Earth Day. BBQ followed.

Arbor Day Celebration, April 29th Trees planted at two elementary schools in Edgewater (Hayt & Peirce) Students, teachers and public officials gave short talks on the importance of trees to life and our environment. Sponsored by EESP, Sen. Steans and Rep Cassidy.

Global Warming –The Paris 2015 Accord & Edgewater (What can an Individual or a Community Do?)
March 29, 2016 Jennifer Walling – Illinois Environmental Council ; Mark Potosnak DePaul Discussed the implications for our community and what changes are forseen by 2050    The presenters talked about energy use and that we all need to adopt energy efficiency strategies as the first step in reaching the goals. Conversion to clean power is next. Charts were reviewed showing the relationship in temperature rise and global warming events.

Gateway Gardens - Ongoing  The BARGE Block Club supports volunteer gardeners who help maintain the ornamental garden housing the Welcome to Edgewater sign - and the adjoining parcels on the Hollywood-Ridge-Magnolia entry into Edgewater.

West Ridge Nature Preserve - 2016 Planned Events for Each Saturday Thru Fall At: 20 plus beautiful enclosed acres of trees, shrubs, native plants. It includes a pond (fishing allowed) and viewing stations off meandering paths. Native wildlife and bird species are expected to return as habitat growth continues. Open from dawn to dusk. Gate at Western/Bryn Mawr. Programming is announced on their website. (Note: No parking area and dogs not allowed in order to maintain the natural balance.)

Citizens' Climate Lobby EESP is represented on this group which is a non-partisan, grass roots organization advocating for a national policy of Carbon Fee & Dividend. This legislation would place a steadily rising fee on fossil fuels, collected upstream at the well, mine, or port of entry. It would then take 100% of net revenue and distribute it equally to households in the form of a monthly check. For a more in depth view, here is an extensive FAQ.
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2015
Edgewater 2015 Beautification Grants of $100 for five new corner or circle plantings. Applications are closed and corner gardens chosen. Co-Sponsored by EESP and State Sen. Heather Steans

Climate Change Conference March (19th & 20th) –   EESP supported & attended this event which was held at Loyola Chicago. Theme:To Tend the Earth: Responding to the Global Climate Change Crisis” Interactive discussions on role of community (residents, schools, places of faith) in this critical phase and strategies on how to help change attitudes.

Saturday: 3/28/2015 Earth Hour Participation Residemts asled to shut off lights for one hour from 8:30 to 9:30 pm

Monday: 3/30/2015; 7-8:30 pm; Town Hall on Renewable Energy & Energy Efficiency:   Jen Walling, Director of the Illinois Environmental Council and a Chair of EESP was a panelist. CoHosted by State Sen Steans & Rep. Cassidy.

Saturday, April 4, 2015 10:00 am-12:00 Noon; Parks & Greening Community Event; Spring Fling Co-sponsored by Senn Parks Advisory; Edgewater Chamber, Faith Groups: Immanuel Lutheran, Community Baptist. Provided families with opportunity to meet and play in natural park setting.

Wednesday, April 8th, 2015, 7-8 pm; Successful Stormwater Stories, Berger Park (6205 N. Sheridan); Co-Sponsored by Loyola, Berger Park & EESP. Participants explained how they solved their stormwater problems. Professionals provided options & costs for particular sites.

Saturday April 18th Clean & Green for Earth Day 9 am to 12:30pm (48th Ward, EESP, Loyola) Community Projects throughout Edgewater to raise consciousness on local green actions that make a difference

Wednesday April 22nd  Earth Day/Green Lobby Day (Illinois Environmental Council, Loyola, EESP) Busing of volunteers to Springfield to lobby for bills in the legislature that are important to the sustainable movement.

Saturday the 25th Paper Shredding Day at 48th Ward Streets & Sanitation Yard 9 am to Noon Sponsored by AT&T

Saturday the 2nd  48th Ward Community Day   Senn High School 9 am–1 pm   EESP Green Living Session Set for 10:15 to 10:45 am Lively discussion between attendees on what constitutes green living and what we can each contribute.

Sunday May 17th    Sacred Seeds; 2:30 to 5:00pm, Emanuel Congregation, 5959 N. Sheridan, Parking Available: A Jewish-Christian-Muslim interfaith reflection on common care for the environment. What can people of faith do to solve the crisis we face. Sponsor: Edgewater Community Religious Association (ECRA).

Saturday, June 20th  It's Your Park Day  In conjunction with the Chicago Parks Foundation and Chicago Park District, we endorse participation in local park activities.

Sunday, June 28th  4 to 5:3o pm Edgewater Climate Change Forum:    Scientific facts on the cause, the issues & next steps. WGN Meteorologist & Edgewater resident: Tom Skilling; Congresswoman Jan Schakowsky; Climate Reality Spokesman: Mark Mesle. Place - St. Andrew Greek Orthodox Church; 5649 N. Sheridan.

Tuesday, June 30th, 6:30 pm. Save Energy & Money at Home; Edgewater Public Library, 6000 N. Broadway,  Experts from two nonprofits, Elevate Energy and the Citizens Utility Board (CUB) discussed the Smart Grid and money saving free Jumpstart Program sponsored by Peoples Gas and ComEd.

Go Edgewater June/July Past Events - Encouraging Local Biking & Activities

Bike to Work Week - FREE Friday, June 12 through Friday, June 19, All day throughout Chicago Commute by bike to work this week. Free coffee, snacks, pass outs and bike checks! More details were posted at bikecommuterchallenge.org.

Chainlinks Bike to Work Week Pit Stop - FREE Tuesday, June 16, 7 am to 9 am; Thorndale CTA Stop (1118 W Thorndale Ave)During the morning bike commute, riders stopped by the Chainlinks pit stop for a free bike tune-up.

Bike to Work Week Rally - FREE Friday, June 19; 7 am to 9 am; Daley Plaza (W. Washington and N. Dearborn Streets) Celebrating Bike to Work Week downtown!

Edgewater BIKE PARADE - FREE Saturday, June 20 Line-up @ 9 am, parade began 10 am; Thorndale CTA Stop (1118 W Thorndale Ave) Edgewater’s first bike parade! Everyone was welcome. Decorated bikes & prizes. Parade traveled down Thorndale Ave and ended at Senn High School for a block party, bike rodeo, DJ Dan the Bicycle man.

Edgewater Farmers Market & Divvy Day - FREE Saturday, July 11; Market: 8 am to 1 pm / Divvy Stations until 3 pm; Broadway Armory Parking Lot (5917 N. Broadway St.) Go Edgewater Ambassadors and Chainlinks bike mechanics offered bike checks.

Urban Foragers on Two Wheels! - FREE Saturday, July 11; from 4 pm to 6 pm Berger Park (6205 N. Sheridan Rd.) Tour of our edible landscape led by The Recyclery Collective We will forage and hunt for mulberries, juneberries, and more in Edgewater and beyond.

Edgewater Glen Garden Walk & Fundraiser  Sunday, July 12; Noon to 5 pm; Starting point at 1420 W. Glenlake Ave. Once a year the neighborhood of Edgewater Glen opens their beautiful gardens up for the entire community to enjoy.

Wednesday 30-Minute Walking Club - FREE Wednesday, July 15; Meet at 7 am / Walk from 7:05 am to 7: 35 am
Meet at Starbucks on Clark St & Berwyn Ave

Bicycle Earring Making Workshop & Bike Ride - FREE Sunday, July 19; Meet at 1 pm / Ride begins at 1:30 pm
Meet at the CTA Thorndale Stop (1118 W. Thorndale Ave.) Join us on a 3-mile bike ride as we head north to The Recyclery .

Green & Blue Edge Walk with the Edgewater Development Corporation and Edgewater Environmental Sustainability Project - FREE Wednesday, July 22; Walk at 6:30 pm - 8 pm; Met at Loyola’s Institute of Environmental Sustainability (6349 N Kenmore Ave) Discovering Edgewater with a behind-the-scenes tour of sustainable businesses and initiatives in the neighborhood. The walk ended at Uncommon Ground for a rooftop farm tour.

Saturday, August 29 Ride the 606 The 606 is Chicago's new elevated park! Did you know that it is easily accessible by bike from Edgewater? A 17-mile round trip journey from Edgewater to the 606, down the trail and back.

Monday Night Weekly Bike Rides with Alderman Osterman’s 48th Ward Office Mondays, September 14, 21, 28

Lecture: The Rise and Fall of Chicago’s Cable Cars with Greg Borzo and the Edgewater Historical Society

Fancy Bike Ride Ride, Dance, Picnic 6:30 pm to 8 pm multiple stops throughout the community and learn some dance moves along the way. Free dance lessons (think swing, tango, ballroom) will be provided courtesy of Design Dance.

Edgewater Back to School 5K Run/Walk  Run/Walk starts at 8 am Start/Finish line at Rosemont and Kenmore Get ready for the second annual Edgewater Back to School 5K Run/Walk!

Slow Roll Edgewater & Uptown Ride: From Roots to Fruits: Exploring our Historic Landmarks and Community Gardens