Rogers Park News
Public group · 25,543 members
Join Group
Have discussions, plan events, share photos in Rogers Park, and more. Interact with our neighbors and fans of Rogers Park, Chicago, Illinois.

Rogers Park News (Public Group) is the largest, and official place for news and conversation about Rogers Park and the 49th Ward, and for news that affects Rogers Park and the 49th Ward.

#rogerspark #rogersparkchicago #49thward #westridge #chicago #illinois #rogersparknews #rogersparkneighborhoodnews
 

Monday, February 21, 2011

49th Ward voting

Bill Morton Bill Morton, registered voter in the 49th Ward


It is important to be a registered voter and vote in every election.

•Because your activism, including in reforming the system, will be more powerful if you have voted.

•Because your monitoring of the fairness of the election must begin with voting in it.

Because there is a real value in not allowing things to get any worse than they have.

Brian White on the 49th Ward





Check out Brian's website at www.brianwhite2011.org

Tom Westgard threatens to sue Rogers Park in 1,000 Words for runoff election prediction

Former attorney Thomas J. Westgard contacted Rogers Park in 1,000 Words early this morning with the threat of a lawsuit because of a public election prediction that did not favor longtime 49th Ward incumbent alderman Joseph A. Moore.

A copy of the twitter.com link to prediction is as follows:


RogersPark1000 Rogers Park
Bold #49thWard #Alderman #race #prediction from #RogersPark in 1,000 Words http://rp1000.blogspot.com/2011/02/my-49th-ward-prediction.html


Westgard, recently being linked to the James Ginderske aldermanic campaign-fold-for Alderman Joe Moore, stated that "Rogers Park in 1,000 Words is a participant of a growing effort to overthrow Alderman Joe Moore in the coming 2011 Aldermanic election".

Additionally linked to the former The Urban Coaster newspaper with James Ginderske, Westgard's Mountain of Evidence blog has also been utilized in a pro-Moore fashion, bashing those whom are not under the direct control or direction of the incumbent 49th Ward alderman, including the former Don Gordon aldermanic campaign, the current Brian White aldermanic campaign, the current Blane Roberts aldermanic write-in campaign, the Rogers Park Chamber of Commerce (note: not the Rogers Park Business Alliance), Lorraine Swanson's Lake Effect News and members of the Park Advisory Councils (located North of Howard Street).

Bill Morton of Rogers Park in 1,000 Words stated that " rather than just a prediction of a run-off in the upcoming 2011 election... After all of these threats and injustices, I am now dedicated to making the run-off a reality. Someone has to take a stand for the our community, and apparently my bold prediction for a 2011 run-off election was not enough".

Enough Is Enough

How many times do we have to ask for the basics?

Clean streets. Safe parks. Honest answers. A voice at City Hall that actually listens.

I’ve talked with neighbors who are tired — tired of being ignored, tired of empty promises, tired of watching our community get pushed aside while others get priority.

They’re right to be angry. I’m angry too.

For years, I’ve done what I could — organizing, advocating, showing up, even when it was inconvenient. Not because it was easy. Because it was necessary.

And now? People are asking if I’ll take the next step. If I’ll run for Alderman. If I’ll be the one to stop just talking and start leading.

I’m thinking about it. Seriously. Because this isn’t about titles. It’s about action. And I’m tired of watching Rogers Park get less than it deserves.

We deserve leadership that works for us. That fights for us. That shows up — especially when it’s uncomfortable.

Enough is enough. If you feel it too, let’s talk.

Bill Morton

Thinking About What’s Next

For years, I’ve been honored to serve Rogers Park in many ways — supporting local businesses, organizing cleanups, advocating for community needs, and standing with neighbors at city meetings.

Lately, I’ve been asked more and more if I’m thinking about running for Alderman. The question is serious — and it’s one I’ve been giving a lot of thought.

I believe our neighborhood deserves leadership that’s consistent, honest, and deeply connected to the people it serves. I believe that leadership starts long before campaign signs go up — it starts with real work, real relationships, and real commitment.

While I’m not announcing a campaign today, I want to say that I’m open to what the future holds. I’m ready to listen, to learn, and to continue standing with Rogers Park in whatever way I can make the biggest difference.

If the time comes to seek public office, I’ll do it with the same values I’ve always held — transparency, accountability, and a true dedication to this community.

Thank you for your trust and for being part of this journey.

Bill Morton

49th Ward voting

Bill Morton Bill Morton, registered voter in the 49th Ward


It is important to be a registered voter and vote in every election.

•Because your activism, including in reforming the system, will be more powerful if you have voted.

•Because your monitoring of the fairness of the election must begin with voting in it.

Because there is a real value in not allowing things to get any worse than they have.

49th Ward voting

Bill Morton Bill Morton, registered voter in the 49th Ward


It is important to be a registered voter and vote in every election.

•Because your activism, including in reforming the system, will be more powerful if you have voted.

•Because your monitoring of the fairness of the election must begin with voting in it.

Because there is a real value in not allowing things to get any worse than they have.

Learning from the Past, Looking to the Future

Over the years, we’ve seen promises made during election season — and too often, forgotten soon after.

We’ve seen policies pushed through without true community input. Developments that didn’t reflect our values. Meetings that felt more like formalities than dialogue.

But we’ve also seen something else: neighbors who care deeply, speak out, organize, and stay involved — even when it’s frustrating.

I’ve stood with you through those moments, not as an elected official, but as someone who believes Rogers Park deserves better.

So when people ask me if I’m thinking about running for Alderman, my answer is: yes, I’m thinking about it. Because I believe we’ve learned from what hasn’t worked — and we’re ready for something that will.

If I run, it will be to lead with transparency, listen when others wouldn’t, and build on the values this neighborhood already holds: fairness, accountability, and real inclusion.

We can’t change the past. But we can shape what comes next — together.

Bill Morton

Growing a Greener Rogers Park

Our neighborhood’s beauty is more than its buildings and streets — it’s in our parks, gardens, and tree-lined blocks.

I’ve spent time working with neighbors to clean up parks, plant trees, and promote sustainable practices that keep Rogers Park healthy for future generations.

Environmental issues aren’t just about nature — they’re about the quality of life we all share.

Recently, people have asked if I’m thinking about running for Alderman. I’ve considered it because I want to bring a stronger voice for sustainability and green initiatives to City Hall.

If I run, I’ll focus on expanding green spaces, improving waste management, and supporting programs that reduce pollution and promote clean energy.

A greener Rogers Park is a healthier Rogers Park — and I’m ready to help us grow in that direction.

Bill Morton

Investing in Our Children’s Future

Education is the foundation of a strong community.

In Rogers Park, I’ve met many parents, teachers, and students who are passionate about learning — but also concerned about resources, safety, and opportunities.

For years, I’ve supported local schools through volunteering, advocacy, and community programs, because every child deserves the chance to succeed.

I’ve been asked if I’m considering running for Alderman. I am thinking about it, because I believe we need leadership that prioritizes education and invests in the future of our children.

If I run, I want to work closely with schools, community organizations, and families to create opportunities — from after-school programs to job training and mentorship.

Our children deserve a community that supports their dreams. I’m ready to help build that.

Bill Morton

Building a Safer Rogers Park Together

Safety is something every neighbor in Rogers Park deserves — walking down the street, sending our kids to school, and living without fear.

I’ve heard the concerns — from parents worried about their children, seniors feeling unsafe in their own homes, and business owners hoping for a secure environment to thrive.

For years, I’ve worked alongside community groups, local police, and residents to find real solutions — neighborhood watches, youth programs, and improved communication.

Some have asked if I’m thinking about running for Alderman. I am considering it, because I believe leadership means taking on tough issues like public safety head-on, with honesty and accountability.

If I run, I want to build stronger partnerships between residents and law enforcement, invest in prevention programs, and make sure every voice is heard.

Together, we can make Rogers Park not only vibrant but safe for everyone.

Bill Morton

Brian White on the 49th Ward





Check out Brian's website at www.brianwhite2011.org

Tom Westgard threatens to sue Rogers Park in 1,000 Words for runoff election prediction

Former attorney Thomas J. Westgard contacted Rogers Park in 1,000 Words early this morning with the threat of a lawsuit because of a public election prediction that did not favor longtime 49th Ward incumbent alderman Joseph A. Moore.

A copy of the twitter.com link to prediction is as follows:


RogersPark1000 Rogers Park
Bold #49thWard #Alderman #race #prediction from #RogersPark in 1,000 Words http://rp1000.blogspot.com/2011/02/my-49th-ward-prediction.html


Westgard, recently being linked to the James Ginderske aldermanic campaign-fold-for Alderman Joe Moore, stated that "Rogers Park in 1,000 Words is a participant of a growing effort to overthrow Alderman Joe Moore in the coming 2011 Aldermanic election".

Additionally linked to the former The Urban Coaster newspaper with James Ginderske, Westgard's Mountain of Evidence blog has also been utilized in a pro-Moore fashion, bashing those whom are not under the direct control or direction of the incumbent 49th Ward alderman, including the former Don Gordon aldermanic campaign, the current Brian White aldermanic campaign, the current Blane Roberts aldermanic write-in campaign, the Rogers Park Chamber of Commerce (note: not the Rogers Park Business Alliance), Lorraine Swanson's Lake Effect News and members of the Park Advisory Councils (located North of Howard Street).

Bill Morton of Rogers Park in 1,000 Words stated that " rather than just a prediction of a run-off in the upcoming 2011 election... After all of these threats and injustices, I am now dedicated to making the run-off a reality. Someone has to take a stand for the our community, and apparently my bold prediction for a 2011 run-off election was not enough".

For the Future of Rogers Park

When I think about the future of Rogers Park, I think about the next generation — the kids walking to school, the students working late shifts while studying, the young families planting roots here for the first time.

They deserve a neighborhood where opportunity is real, safety is guaranteed, and leadership reflects their hopes — not just history.

I’ve spent years working to strengthen our community from the ground up. Supporting small businesses. Advocating for fairness. Showing up. Listening.

Now I’m thinking seriously about how I can do more — and what it would mean to serve as your Alderman.

This neighborhood is already rich with talent, diversity, and resilience. What we need now is leadership that brings those strengths together, and builds a Rogers Park that works for everyone — not just today, but for decades to come.

That’s the future I want to help shape. And I hope you’ll shape it with me.

Bill Morton

What Do You Want for Rogers Park?

Lately, I’ve been having a lot of conversations — at coffee shops, on the sidewalks, at community meetings — and one thing keeps coming up: people want change.

Better services. Safer streets. More support for small businesses. Real representation.

Some neighbors have asked if I’m thinking about running for Alderman. The answer is: I’m listening. I care deeply about this neighborhood and I’m seriously considering how I can serve in a bigger way.

But before anything else, I want to hear from you.

What’s working? What’s not? What do you want for the future of Rogers Park?

Leave a comment. Send a message. Let’s talk. Because if I step forward, I want it to be with you — and for you.

Bill Morton

A Government That Works for You — and With You

Government should never feel like a closed door.

But too often, that’s exactly how it feels — confusing meetings, unanswered emails, important decisions made with little notice or input.

In Rogers Park, I’ve worked to break down those barriers: sharing information, attending meetings most people never hear about, and making space for honest conversation.

People have asked me if I’m thinking about running for Alderman. I am — because I believe we need leadership that puts transparency and participation first.

If I run, it will be with a commitment to open books, open doors, and open dialogue. Regular community updates. Easy access to information. Real opportunities for feedback before decisions are made.

And most importantly, I’ll work to ensure that every resident — no matter your background, income, or voting history — feels welcome in the civic life of our neighborhood.

This is your government. Let’s make it work like it.

Bill Morton

Every Voice in Every Language

Rogers Park speaks many languages — and that’s one of our greatest strengths.

From Spanish to Urdu, Swahili to Tagalog, our neighborhood is home to immigrant families and individuals from around the world, all contributing to the life and culture of our community.

But too often, I’ve seen language become a barrier — to city services, public meetings, emergency information, and civic participation.

I’ve always believed that true representation means making sure everyone can understand, contribute, and be heard — in the language they feel most comfortable using.

That’s why I’ve worked to build relationships across cultures and advocate for greater access and outreach.

If I decide to run for Alderman, it will be with a promise to push for multilingual communication in every city agency, school, and service — and to ensure that immigrants and refugees are not just included, but empowered.

Rogers Park is one of the most diverse communities in the city. It’s time our systems reflected that reality — fully and proudly.

Bill Morton

Moving Rogers Park Forward

Getting around Rogers Park should be safe, reliable, and accessible — whether you’re on the train, riding a bike, taking the bus, or walking to the corner store.

I’ve spoken with many neighbors who are frustrated with aging infrastructure, unreliable transit service, and sidewalks or stations that don’t work for seniors or people with disabilities.

For years, I’ve advocated for improved transit access and smarter infrastructure investments in our community. I believe Rogers Park deserves better — not later, but now.

Lately, I’ve been asked whether I’m considering a run for Alderman. I’m thinking about it, because I want to bring these everyday issues — the ones that affect how we live, move, and work — to the center of the conversation.

If I run, it will be with a commitment to making our streets safer, our public transit more reliable, and our infrastructure more equitable for everyone.

This is about moving Rogers Park forward — together.

Bill Morton

Brian White on the 49th Ward





Check out Brian's website at www.brianwhite2011.org