Dear Neighbor,

What a summer! It is hard to capture everything that has happened but I want to make sure to share as much as possible about what I and my district office team have been up to. We have gotten to see so many of you at summer celebrations, block parties, and outreach events - it has been wonderful.

My office has also fielded hundreds of walk-ins, referrals, and phone calls to address constituent needs. Accessing stable, affordable housing is the number one issue that comes to our office. Just last week we had 27 cases on this issue. If you are facing challenges in housing, I want you to know that my office is a safe space and encourage you to reach out.

This summer has also been a major time of connecting with leaders to advocate for the needs of the 7th District. I sat down with Senator Dick Durbin, and housing was a major focus of our conversation. We also discussed youth mental health, and the need for greater access to affordable health care. You can read more about our conversation below. I was especially honored to host him at Mella Cafe, owned by Yirgy Meles and Negus Solomon in Edgewater and share Ethiopian traditions and food.

In other news, I have been honored to be part of the Edgar Fellows program, a leadership program established by former Governor Jim Edgar. As a 2022 alum, I was honored to address the 2024 Class of Edgar Fellows.

A big thank you to Mathew Adjesso and Dohyeon Kim, our summer interns! We are so grateful that you were with us this summer. Our interns are integral staff members. They help lead us through resource events like the Juneteenth Celebration at Truman College and our recent Survivors of Domestic Violence event. Our summer interns even helped spearhead organizing and implementing our recent Virtual Town Hall. They support every day office needs and connect constituents with the resources they need. I am proud of how each of our interns served the 7th District this summer with enthusiasm and empathy.

As you can see below, my team and I have been all over the district, meeting with constituents, sharing new resources, connecting folks with services, celebrating, and always, always, listening. We look forward to continuing to serve you and the North Side of Chicago this fall, and to developing legislation that is informed by your needs.

To our Eritrean/Ethiopian community, Melkam Addis Amet! (Happy New Year).

Sincerely,

simmons sig

Senator Mike Simmons
7th Senate District

Summer Highlights

Breakfast with Senator Durbin


Caption: Senator Simmons and Senator Durbin discuss issues over an authentic Eritrean/Ethiopian breakfast at Mella Cafe!


Caption: Senator Simmons with owners of Mella Cafe - Yirgy Meles and Negus Solomon

     I met with Senator Durbin for breakfast at Mella Cafe, an Eritrean/Ethiopian Cafe located at 5418 N. Broadway. Senator Durbin and I discussed issues within the 7th District including the threat of gentrification on rents for small businesses, the loss of affordable housing, our amazing small business community, the physical and operational state of affordable and low-income housing buildings like the Ruth Shriman House, the Hollywood House, and The Leland, as well as youth mental health, and access to affordable healthcare. We also discussed the proven impact of a permanent child tax credit, the very first bill I penned, which passed earlier this year!

I was so proud to host Senator Durbin at Mella Cafe! A huge THANK YOU to owners Yirgy Meles and Negus Solomon for your hospitality!

Thank You Summer Interns!


Caption: Team Simmons! From left to right, Summer Intern Mathew Adjesso, Operations and Outreach Coordinator, Gabby Tewodros, Summer Intern Dohyeon Kim, Senator Mike Simmons, Chief of Staff Heather Saenger, Legislative Assistant Geri Mollohan, and Constituent Services Manager Connor Bishop.

     This summer my office was fortunate to once again have incredible interns on staff with us. Dohyeon Kim, a junior at my alma mater, Amherst College, and Mathew Adjesso, now in his first year at Eastern Illinois University helped extend the reach of our events, services, and communications with the 7th District. Their positive and service-oriented approach to their work helped us bring successful events, like the Northside Community Job Fair, Juneteenth celebrations, Survivors of Domestic Violence Resource Event, our Virtual Town Hall, and Mobile Office Hours to constituents (just to name a few). They also assisted in researching solutions to casework and legislation for this fall. We are grateful for their talents and are confident they will continue to achieve amazing things this school year and beyond!

Senator Simmons Addresses Edgar Fellows Class of 2024


Caption: Senator Simmons with former Governor, Jim Edgar at the Edgar Fellows Class of 2024.

     This summer I had the opportunity to take the Amtrak down to Champaign and speak to the Edgar Fellows Class of 2024 about my experience writing, introducing, and passing legislation as a State Senator. Former Governor Jim Edgar established the Edgar Fellows program, which brings together leaders from all parts of Illinois to foster the statesmanship that will address major challenges across regional, partisan, and ethnic lines. As an alum of the 2022 class, the Edgar Fellows connected me with leaders across the state that I’ve been fortunate to work with on legislation and other civic issues. I was proud to return to the program to offer my insights to the new Class of 2024, which includes Representative Hoan Huynh and my former Chief of Staff Isabel Dobbel, among additional leaders! Congratulations to the Edgar Fellows Class of 2024!


Caption: Senator Simmons addresses the 2024 Edgar Fellows in Champaign along with his colleague and fellow Edgar 2022 alum State Senator Terri Bryant from southern Illinois.

Back to School Bash at Senn High School


Caption: Senator Simmons along with families, volunteers, Back 2 School America, Edgewater Football Club, and Cirque Experience at the Back to School Bash at Senn High School.


Caption: Senator Simmons with a 7th District family at the Back to School Bash.

     Hosting a Back to School Bash is always a highlight of my year! This year we hosted the event at Senn High School, and passed out hundreds of backpacks donated by Cradles to Crayons along with school supply kits donated by Back 2 School. We had a line out the door before the event even started! Thank you to Principal Dacres and Alderwoman Manaa-Hoppenworth for partnering to bring this event to our community. A huge, huge thank you to Patio Beef and Pizzeria Aroma for your generous donations of delicious food, and to our incredible volunteers - Susan, Dwight, Gary, Tim, Cameron, Million, and Edgewater Football Club for helping set up, serve families, and make sure everyone was welcomed with open arms.

Ravenswood Neighborhood Association Coffee Chat


Caption: Senator Simmons provides updates to the Ravenswood Neighborhood Association meeting earlier this summer.


Caption: Senator Simmons in discussion with community members at the Ravenswood Neighborhood Association meeting.

     Thank you to Michael, Valarie, and the entire Ravenswood Neighborhood Association for inviting me to your community meeting! Attending hyper-local gatherings always helps me to connect directly, and learn exactly what issues are important to you. At this meeting, we had a robust conversation on pedestrian and bike safety infrastructure improvements, protections for renters, environmental issues - like single-use plastics, and community safety. All of these issues helped me identify where my office can engage with you further, and I look forward to sharing progress with you in the coming months. Thank you again for the warm welcome!

District Event Recaps

Survivors of Domestic Violence


Caption: Edith Gonzalez and Wesam Shehad with the Cook County State’s Attorney present ways people can connect with immediate help in situations of domestic violence.


Caption: Senator Simmons and Wesam Shehad from the Cook County State's Attorney's Office at the Survivors of Domestic Violence resource event.

     In partnership with the County State’s Attorney’s Office, I hosted a resource event at the Church of Atonement earlier this summer for Survivors of Domestic Violence. We learned about legal protections available for survivors and how to connect immediately with those resources. We were joined by local non-profit organizations who are equipped to provide individual help.

If you or a loved one are living in an unsafe situation, please do not hesitate to reach out to my office. We are here to help and you are not alone. All information is always kept confidential. You can reach my office directly at 773-769-1717 or visit us at 1040 W. Bryn Mawr Ave.

IDFPR Mobile Office Hours at Edgewater Library


Caption: A constituent receives their IDFPR license at Mobile Office Hours at Edgewater Library.

     One of the most frequent requests my office receives is help in processing or applying for an IDFPR license. So, in response, we held IDFPR Mobile Hours at the Edgewater Library, where folks were able to speak directly with an agent, sort out issues, and in many cases, receive approval for their license in real time. This event was incredibly successful, and thank you to the IDFPR team and Edgewater Library staff for allowing us to host this event. Stay tuned for more mobile office hours events featuring additional departments!

Virtual Town Hall

     Thank you to everyone who joined me and my staff for my recent Virtual Town Hall. If you missed it, you can view the slideshow of topics I covered here.

     During the town hall, I provided an update on the year so far, including 28 bills that I have introduced, 22 bills that have passed, 23 bills that I have co-sponsored, 10 district events I have held, and 104 constituent cases (and counting) that have been resolved.

     The hard work continues into the fall, where I hope to pass legislation that reflects the needs of the 7th District and all of Illinois, with focus on passing the Let America Read Act, eliminating credit score checks for renters, protecting public drinking water, and improving our roadways to be safer for all methods of transportation.

Senator Simmons in the News


Caption: Senator Simmons gave an interview with LGBTQ Nation about experiencing anti-gay bullying from a school security guard, legislation he is most proud of, and the importance of authentic representation.
 

Community Engagement

Montrose Behavioral Health Visit


Caption: CEO Patrick Sanders of Montrose Behavioral Health Hospital and Senator Simmons discuss how to bring accessible mental health resources to 7th District constituents.


Caption: Montrose Behavioral Health Hospital, located at 4840 N. Marine Drive is open and accepts 24/7 mental health inpatient services.

     I was encouraged by my recent visit to the newly-renovated Montrose Behavioral Health Hospital at 4840 N. Marine Drive, where I met with CEO Patrick Sanders to tour the building and discuss rising to meet the needs of those struggling with mental health. The hospital is open 24/7 and provides inpatient services for depression, chemical dependency, or any kind of mental health challenge. They also have a location just next door that provides outpatient care for adolescents and adults. If you or a loved one need help, please reach out to them at 888-496-3033.

Geothermal Residential Building Tour


Caption: Senator Simmons tours 3833 N. Broadway, the first and currently only residential building in Chicago that utilizes geothermal energy to heat the building.


Caption: Senator Simmons stands on the rooftop of a geothermal building, 3833 N. Broadway with building ownership and management.

     I recently had the unique opportunity to visit and tour an apartment building at 3833 N. Broadway that is almost completely powered by geothermal energy. This energy is secured through tens to hundreds of wells put deep into the ground to harness the constant temperature of the shallow earth to heat homes in the winter and cool homes in the summer. Geothermal energy is already used in a few buildings in our district, such as in Loyola University’s Chicago School of Environmental Sustainability facility. I am excited to further explore the potential of geothermal energy as a more sustainable energy source compared to natural gas and fossil fuels.

Greater Rockwell Organization Block Party


Caption: Senator Simmons snags a selfie with neighbors at the Greater Rockwell Organization block party.


Caption: Senator Simmons with neighbors at the Greater Rockwell Organization block party.

     I love geeking out about all-things bikes, and was thrilled to encounter a bike clinic at the Greater Rockwell Organization (GRO) block party earlier this summer. I never take for granted how special and unique it is to have block parties happening every weekend of the summer, and I wish I could attend them all! Thank you to GRO for your gracious welcome, for indulging my fascination with bikes, and for hosting this event every year!

Senator Simmons Celebrates Last
Argyle Night Market of the Season


Caption: It was an honor to celebrate the life of John Vietnam Nguyen at the closing night of Argyle Night Market last week.

     What a massively successful Argyle Night Market season! I had a joyous time last Thursday visiting with folks and booths along Argyle, including our friends at McCutcheon Elementary and caterer Urban Tables from Rogers Park. I also took a moment on stage to remember John Vietnam Nguyen (JVN), a local hip hop artist who tragically lost his life while saving a friend from drowning. JVN is honored every year at the final Argyle Night Market, and his memory lives on through his music and friends and the broader community.

Argyle Night Market is a staple of Chicago's Northside, and I am honored to represent the Argyle and Uptown community. Thank you Uptown United and the Uptown Chamber of Commerce for putting together such a wonderful night market every single year! I'm already counting down the days till next year!

Resources and Events

IDFPR Now Offering Virtual Appointments for Licensing Updates

     IDFPR has started a virtual appointment pilot program every Wednesday for individuals seeking support with IDFPR professional licenses. With 1:1 support, applicants can directly engage with members of the Licensing Team who are experts on licensing issues and can provide direct solutions to licensing challenges. This is a first-come, first-serve resource. Appointment availability opens 2 weeks prior to the appointment date on Wednesdays but cannot be made less than 48 business hours before the appointment date. If there is no availability, please check back. You can register for appointments online //outlook.office365.com/book/This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it./s/o7Ar2jtMUUyFCyDO8gaXsA2">here. My office also assists with checking on the status of IDFPR applications. Please contact my team for more information by emailing This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or calling 773-769-1717.

IDFPR Now Offering Online Applications for Social Work Licenses and More

IDFPR is now offering the following applications online:

  • Licensed Social Workers
  • Licensed Clinical Social Workers
  • Licensed Professional Counselors
  • Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor

By being available online, these applications are able to be submitted more easily and processed more expeditiously. IDFPR’s goal is to bring all applications online, which is part of the recently-signed new licensing system that IDFPR is working to implement as soon as possible. You can submit applications for all of IDFPR’s online job licenses using the IDFPR Online Services Portal.

Race for River 5K

     Friends of the Chicago River are hosting their inaugural Race for the River 5K event on Saturday, September 21 at River Park. This event is an unique opportunity to explore the river trail and witness recent river edge improvements that enhance the health and climate of the Chicago-Calumet River system, all while supporting equitable, open access for everyone! For folks who don’t want to participate in the race there are family friendly activities and a guided nature walk happening as well. For more information visit www.chicagoriver.org.

Ethiopian Community Association of Chicago’s 40th Anniversary Gala & New Year Party

     The Ethiopian Community Association of Chicago (ECAC) will be celebrating their 40th Anniversary and the Ethiopian New Year this Saturday, September 14 at the Holiday Inn at 5300 W. Touhy Ave. in Skokie. Featured entertainment will be Getish Mamo & team. Tickets for the two-part event are $100 and can be purchased at www.ecachicago.org or at the door.

Small Business Spotlights

Chicago Fair Trade Museum Ribbon Cutting


Caption: Heather Saenger, Chief of Staff, celebrates the grand opening of the Chicago Fair Trade Museum located at 4704 N. Broadway.

My Chief of Staff, Heather Saenger, and Operations and Outreach Coordinator, Gabby Tewodros had a wonderful time celebrating the grand opening of the world’s first museum dedicated to educating and supporting fair trade - right here in Uptown! The Chicago Fair Trade museum is located at 4704 N. Broadway and is FREE and open to the public. I encourage you to visit, to learn about where your food and everyday items come from, and how you can take small steps to support a more sustainable future.

DMApothecary Grand Re-Opening


Caption: Senator Simmons’, Representative Cassidy’s, Alderwoman Manaa-Hoppenworth’s staff, along with the Edgewater Chamber of Commerce and its board members, celebrate the grand re-opening of DMApothecary located at 5230 N. Sheridan in Edgewater.


Caption: Deirdre Austin, owner of DMApothecary, prepares a refreshing and detoxing glass of herb-infused lemonade.

Congratulations to DMApothecary on their recent Grand Re-Opening! Located at 5230 N. Sheridan in Edgewater, DMApothecary is owned by Deirdre Austin and features vegan hand-made soaps, skincare, and hair care items. NEW are her delicious and refreshing hot/cold teas! You may know Deirdre from her Argyle Night Market booth, and her son, Matthew, was an intern with us last summer. As we head into fall and the holidays, make sure to get out and shop at family-owned businesses all across the 7th District, such as DMApothecary!

Thank you for taking the time to read my newsletter! If you ever want to reach out to our office, please call us at 773-769-1717, and we will respond promptly. We can also be reached at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or via my website, senatormikesimmons.com.