May 4, 2016

Mayor Emanuel and CDPH Launch Healthy Chicago Community Seed Grants

As part of the City's ongoing work to engage and invest in neighborhoods, Mayor Rahm Emanuel and the Chicago Department of Public Health (CDPH) announced today the new Healthy Chicago Community Seed Grants, providing up to six seed grants for community-based initiatives to improve health and well-being. The new grant opportunities are part of the citywide Healthy Chicago 2.0 plan, announced March 29, and will be discussed during of a series of community meetings hosted by CDPH over the next month.

"Healthy Chicago 2.0 was designed with our communitie's needs in mind to expand innovative health strategies and improve the health and vitality of each of our residents," said Mayor Emanuel. "These new seed grants follow up on that promise by focusing on eliminating inequities and ensuring that every resident has the resources and opportunities necessary to lead a healthy life"

Under the new effort, CDPH will award up to six community seed grants, ranging between $10,000 and $20,000, to local non-profit organizations with innovative ideas on how to address health disparities at a community-level. Awards will be based on how closely programs align with the goals of Healthy Chicago 2.0, a data-driven plan that identifies key areas of improvement across the city.

"The best way to improve our city's health is to engage the people who live here," said CDPH Commissioner Julie Morita, M.D." By providing seed grants and by holding these community meetings, we will work directly with residents to help them improve their communities. We look forward to engaging our residents firsthand on how we can improve services to meet their needs and improve quality of life in their communities."

Building on the success of 2011's Healthy Chicago plan, Healthy Chicago 2.0 provides strategies to address traditional health issues as well as systemic issues associated with poor health - including housing, education and transportation - and focuses on neighborhoods and demographic groups that continue to face significant health disparities. The Public Health Institute of Metropolitan Chicago in partnership with CDPH will release the grant application later this month which will be available at www.cityofchicago.org/health.

The series of community meetings will bring together CDPH officials, local leaders and community residents to discuss both challenges and solutions regarding health, focusing specifically on issues that are relevant to each community. CDPH will use feedback from the meetings to further implementation of Healthy Chicago 2.0. The meetings, listed below, are open to the public and refreshments will be served

May 4, 2016

Chicago, a modern metropolis on the shores of Lake Michigan that's defined by a love for fine art, baseball and the blues

Stroll museums and parks filled with art, and catch live blues any night of the week in Chicago's bustling Downtown district. Or catch a lively sports game in this home to the Cubs and White Sox baseball teams, and the Chicago Bulls basketball team.

This metropolis is the third largest city in America, but getting around is easy thanks to the efficient above ground train, the 'L'. Get your bearings from the tallest skyscraper in the US, Willis Tower, which defines the city's skyline. The viewing platform, 1,353 feet (412 meters) above the busy streets, offers unparalleled vistas of Lake Michigan, Navy Pier, and other main attractions.

Lincoln Park, just north of downtown, has beaches, sporting grounds and landscaped gardens. Soak up the history of the Windy City at the Chicago History Museum, located on the southern end of the park. Take a stroll through the indoor gardens of the Lincoln Park Conservatory, or spend an afternoon at the Lincoln Park Zoo. This public zoo houses more than 1,000 animals. Brookfield Zoo, 12 miles west of the city center, is more than double the size and features dolphin displays, big cats, a variety of primates and more.

Head back into the Loop district downtown for some of the best shopping in the city, along Michigan Avenue's Magnificent Mile. It's a good place for lunch or dinner, or people watching while you sip a coffee or beer. Just south of the Magnificent Mile is the expansive Art Institute of Chicago well worth a visit for its collection of European and American masterpieces that include Monet, Van Gogh, and much more. Nearby is Millennium Park, a meeting place with public art and spectacular summer concerts.

Some of America's most influential figures came from Chicago. Visit the Ernest Hemingway Museum and House, where the famous writer was born. Architect Frank Lloyd Wright's first house is in the pretty Oak Park neighborhood (called the Frank Lloyd Wright Home and Studio). He designed many houses and buildings in the area, including Unity Temple, considered one of his best. On your way back into town, stop off at the Garfield Park Conservatory, an urban oasis of rare and exotic plants.

No trip to Chicago would be complete without catching a baseball game at the legendary Wrigley Field. At night, head to Navy Pier, packed with lively bars and restaurants. Another option is to head out for a night of blues at one of Chicago's legendary clubs. Check out B.L.U.E.S. near downtown on Chicago's north side or Kingston Mines a few miles north near Lincoln Park. Both of these long established venues have music every night of the week.

January 11, 2016

Radon Risks Increase During Winter Months, Get Your Home Tested

January is National Radon Action Month and the Chicago Department of Public Health (CDPH) is encouraging Chicagoans to test their home for harmful levels of radon. Radon is a naturally-occurring colorless, odorless radioactive gas and is the leading cause of lung cancer among non-smokers. The best time to test homes for radon is during cold-weather months when windows are shut and elevated levels of radon are more likely to be detected.

"Exposure to radon causes lung cancer in non-smokers and smokers alike," said CDPH Commissioner Dr. Julie Morita. "We're calling on every Chicagoan to test their home for radon in order to help protect themselves and their families."

"Low-cost test kits are available at stores throughout the city and online," said Dr. Cortland Lohff, CDPH medical director for environmental health. "Taking action to test and fix high levels of radon gas is not only a strong investment for your health but also for your home."

Information on how to test, find a qualified radon professional or obtain a test kit is available at http://www.epa.gov/radon or by calling the Cook County Radon Hot Line at (708) 865-6177.

You can't see, smell or taste radon, but it could be present at a dangerous level in your home. In fact, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) estimates that radon causes more than 20,000 deaths from lung cancer each year. And if you smoke and your home has a high radon level, your risk of lung cancer can increase even more.

Radon comes from the natural decay of uranium that is found in nearly all soils. It can get into homes through cracks and other holes in the foundation. Radon can then be trapped inside the home, where it can build up.

All homes with or without basements should be tested for radon. Affordable Do-It-Yourself radon test kits are available online and at home improvement and hardware stores, or you can hire a qualified radon tester.

CDPH recommends taking action to fix radon levels at or above 4 picocuries per liter (pCi/L). Addressing high radon levels often costs the same as other minor home repairs. In most cases, a system with a vent pipe and fan is used to reduce radon.

Improving the health and well-being of all Chicagoans by creating safer and healthier homes is a priority in CDPH's citywide health agenda, Healthy Chicago. Healthy Chicago sets an ambitious sense of purpose for Chicago and engages the city with bold action and goals to make Chicago the healthiest city in the nation.

December 9, 2015

City Council Passes Ordinance to Combat Illegal Tobacco Sales to Prevent Youth Smoking

Mayor Rahm Emanuel today announced the city of Chicago is taking action to keep tobacco out of the hands of youth and encourage residents to live smoke free. An ordinance passed by the City Council today cracks down on the illegal sale of cigarettes across Chicago by doubling fines for retailers who sell illegal cigarettes.

"Keeping illegal cigarettes off of our streets and out of the hands of our youth helps them live longer, healthier lives," Mayor Emanuel said. "This ordinance is the latest step in our comprehensive effort to reduce smoking among Chicago's youth."

The new ordinance increases fines on retailers who sell illegal cigarettes from $1,000 to $2,000 for the first offense when fewer than 40 unstamped tobacco packs are found. When more than 40 unstamped packs are found the fine increases to $50 per pack. Fines are raised from $2,000 to $4,000 for any subsequent violations. Repeat offenders also face revocation of their tobacco license and a one-year tobacco sales ban on the location and business owner.

The new ordinance follows a recently-enacted state law that was pushed by the city to make clear that all state and local tax stamps are required before the sale of cigarettes. Prior to this legislation, possession of more than 250 packs of contraband cigarettes was not considered a class 4 felony if the Illinois State tax stamp was affixed.

By strengthening the statute, tobacco retailers can no longer avoid criminal prosecution by only purchasing the state stamp but not the city/county stamp. Since the beginning of the year, city inspectors have conducted six confiscations where more than 250 packs of cigarettes didn't have the required stamps for a total of approximately $33,000 in fines.

Under Mayor Emanuel, Chicago has become a national leader in tobacco cessation by launching an innovative array of programs, laws and tax policies. Chicago has the highest cigarette tax in the country at $7.17 per pack, imposed new e-cigarette tax which serving as a strong disincentive for youth to start smoking. In addition to revenue on fines introduced today, the city expects to collect $21.6 million in cigarette tax in 2016.

"We were seeing a pattern where cigarettes had the state tax stamp, but not the city or county stamp, so business owners were skirting felony charges," BACP Commissioner Maria Guerra Lapacek. "This tough ordinance is designed to deter this act because even one violation is one too many. Doubling the fines for tobacco violators continues to send a strong message to irresponsible retailers who are bent to on breaking the law."

Under Mayor Emanuel, Chicago has become a national leader in tobacco cessation. Since the Mayor first took office, youth smoking has decreased to an all-time low. According to the CDC's most recent numbers, 10.7 percent of Chicago high school students have reported smoking, down from 13.6 percent in 2011 and 24.6 percent in 2001.

December 3, 2015

CDPH Hosts End-of-Year Flu Vaccine Clinics for Vaccinate Illinois Week

The Chicago Department of Public Health (CDPH) is once again teaming up with health departments and healthcare organizations throughout Illinois to encourage residents to get a flu shot during Vaccinate Illinois Week (VIW), December 6 through 12. CDPH joins public health officials and healthcare organizations next week in recommending that everyone six months of age or older receive a flu shot during the fall and winter months, when the flu is most common.

VIW is a statewide observance focused on educating the public about the importance of getting a flu vaccine during the fall and winter months, and is aligned with Centers for Disease Control (CDC) recommendations for flu preparedness. VIW grew out of Vaccinate Chicago week, which was first launched by CDPH in 2012.

"It's not too late to get a flu shot," said CDPH Commissioner Julie Morita, MD. "Flu season typically peaks in January and February. Get vaccinated now to protect yourself, your friends and your family from illness."

During the fourth-annual VIW, next week Chicago residents will see and hear coordinated digital, social media, print and broadcast advertisements reminding them to get vaccinated this season. Though the flu shot does not cover every possible strain of influenza seen every season, it still remains the single best protection against the flu in general. The vaccines available this year protect against the three or four strains of influenza that are most likely to cause people to get sick.

Residents can use the CDPH flu shot app to find a flu shot clinic nearby or call 311 to locate one of our Fast Track Immunization Clinics. CDPH Fast Track Clinics provide flu vaccinations at no charge for adults of all ages and all children over age six months. No appointment is necessary; vaccinations are given on a first come, first served basis.

Among those more vulnerable to complications from flu are pregnant women, young children, the elderly and anyone with underlying health conditions like asthma, diabetes or a weakened immune system. A flu vaccine is needed every year because flu viruses are constantly changing.

In addition to getting a flu shot, you can also reduce your risk by:

• Washing your hands regularly with soap and water. If soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.
• Avoiding touching your eyes, nose or mouth.
• Avoiding close contact with sick people. If you are sick, stay home from school or work.

Vaccinate Illinois Week (VIW) is a statewide observance of National Influenza Vaccination Week, an annual initiative led by the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) to educate the public about the importance of influenza vaccination throughout the fall and winter months. In observance of VIW this year, the Blue Cross/Blue Shield of Illinois headquarters in Chicago will light up the building with the message "Get a flu shot" from December 4 through 6.

September 2, 2015

City to Spray Insecticide Wednesday to Kill Mosquitoes to Fight West Nile Virus

The Chicago Department of Public Health (CDPH) is continuing its efforts against West Nile virus by spraying to kill adult mosquitoes in parts of the northwest side on Wednesday, September 2nd, 2015. This is the third spraying of the season.

Weather permitting, the spraying will begin at dusk on September 2nd and continue through the night until approximately 1:00am, with licensed mosquito abatement technicians in trucks dispensing an ultra-low-volume spray. CDPH staff have been leaving door hangers in the affected areas to notify residents that the spraying will occur.

The material being used to control the adult mosquitoes, Zenivex, will be applied at a rate of 1.5 fluid ounces per acre. It is approved for use by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and is used to control mosquitoes in outdoor residential and recreational areas.

Zenivex has been used effectively to control disease-carrying mosquitoes and is non-persistent, decomposing rapidly in the environment. The rapid degradation of this product makes it an excellent choice for control of West Nile virus-carrying mosquitoes. The spray will be applied by licensed mosquito abatement technicians from Vector Disease Control International, a leader in the mosquito control industry. Guiding the crews through the streets will be supervisors from the Chicago Department of Streets and Sanitation.

While the spray is not harmful to people or pets and is routinely sprayed in residential areas across the nation, residents of targeted neighborhoods may choose to stay indoors and close their windows while spraying is underway, as an extra precaution.

Each year, CDPH conducts a comprehensive West Nile virus surveillance, prevention and control program. In addition to spraying, this includes dropping larvicide in catch basins, which helps limit the number of mosquitoes that can carry the virus, and regularly testing mosquitoes caught in traps throughout the city. By utilizing data, the city is able to most efficiently target high-risk areas for the virus.

• Use insect repellent that contains DEET, Picaridin or Oil of Lemon Eucalyptus.
• Eliminate standing water. This includes emptying water from flowerpots, gutters, pool covers, pet water dishes and birdbaths regularly.
• Keep grass and weeds short to eliminate hiding places for adult mosquitoes.
• When outside between dusk and dawn, wear loose-fitting, light colored clothing including long pants, long sleeve shirts, socks and shoes.
• Check that all screens, windows and doors are tight-fitting and free of holes and tears

As part of their ongoing response efforts, CDPH will continue to collect mosquitoes from traps located throughout the city and test these mosquitoes for West Nile virus. Using results of these tests, CDPH will determine the appropriate steps to be taken in order to best protect Chicago residents.

July 29, 2015

City Council Approves Ordinance to Expand Citywide Composting Program

City Council today approved Mayor Emanue's ordinance to expand composting operations at community gardens and urban farms across Chicago, as well as create a citywide community garden registry and urban farm accessory composting operation permit. The goal of the program is to expand the type of allowable compostable materials at both community gardens and urban farms, while implementing common sense measures to ensure public health standards are maintained.

"Urban agriculture is an important piece in making our communities more environmentally friendly and sustainable," said Mayor Rahm Emanuel. "Expanding composting is an easy way to support our neighborhoods in growing their own fresh fruits and vegetables right in their own backyards."

In addition to landscape waste, such as grass or shrubbery clippings, community gardens will now be allowed to compost limited organic waste, including food scraps such as vegetables and eggshells. All community gardens will be required to register with the City at no-cost through a new online community garden registry. The ordinance also creates a new Urban Farm Accessory Composting Operation Permit, which will allow urban farms to apply for a permit with the Chicago Department of Public Health to compost livestock waste, in addition to landscape and limited organic waste.

"Composting supports the reuse of material that would otherwise be considered waste and sent to landfills," said Commissioner Julie Morita, Chicago Department of Public Health. "I look forward to implementing these new policies and other best practices with our community stakeholders in the upcoming composting season."

The ordinance was drafted with input from local urban agriculture and environmental stakeholders and the City will continue to work with these partners as the community is educated about new composting opportunities.

"We applaud Mayor Emanuel for introducing this ordinance, created with feedback from advocates and cooperative work with City departments," said Jen Walling, Executive Director, Illinois Environmental Council. "This ordinance positions Chicago as one of the top cities in the nation for small scale composting sites, protecting the environment and introducing new tools for urban farmers and gardeners."

Expanding composting is part of a larger strategy to support urban agriculture efforts in Chicago. In 2011, Mayor Emanuel passed the Urban Farm ordinance, expanding the size limit on community gardens, relaxing fencing and parking requirements on commercial urban farms to help reduce startup costs, and allowing for innovative new methods of farming such as hydroponic and aquaponic systems. Over the last four years, acreage devoted to urban farming has increased by a factor of 13, going from 1.4 acres to roughly 18 acres, and the number of urban farm operators from 2 to 13.

July 7, 2015

Mayor Emanuel Announces Divvy Expanding Access to Popular Bike Share System

Mayor Rahm Emanuel announced today that Divvy is breaking down barriers to access the popular bike-share program by offering reduced-cost annual memberships to residents. Under the new initiative, Divvy for Everyone (D4E), Chicago residents with incomes below 300 percent of the federal poverty level who don't have a credit or debit card will qualify for a $5 annual Divvy membership, compared to the regular $75 price. The effort follows a major expansion of Divvy to new neighborhoods earlier this year, and a record-breaking weekend for ridership over the Fourth of July.

"In two years Divvy has grown to more neighborhoods and become a transit option for more residents, but cost was still a barrier for too many people," said Mayor Emanuel. "Divvy only works when everyone has a chance to use it. Today we are bridging gaps by offering $5 annual memberships so more residents can benefit from Divvy, regardless of their ability to pay."

The D4E program is available to Chicago residents who have a maximum combined household income of 300 percent of the federal poverty level. D4E provides a one-time one-year membership for $5 with no credit or debit card required. Applicants must appear in person at any of five Local Initiatives Support Corporation (LISC) Financial Opportunity Centers - located in Bronzeville, Englewood, East Garfield Park, Humboldt Park and Ravenswood - and provide proof of income and Chicago residency. They will be charged $5 if found qualified and will be issued a Divvy member key on-site.

The City is exploring a number of options for people to be able to continue their memberships at full price after the initial year, these include payment plans, cash payment options, and a pathway to credit-building and financial empowerment programs with LISC Financial Opportunity Centers.

"As a longtime advocate for bike usage in the Third Ward -- more specifically in Bronzeville -- I am proud to support the Divvy for Everyone program," said 3rd Ward Alderman Pat Dowell. "This partnership between CDOT, Divvy, and community agencies allows the usage of Divvy Bikes to be more affordable for residents across the City of Chicago."

Divvy is working with two local organizations on D4E outreach efforts: Slow Roll Chicago and Go Bronzeville. Slow Roll Chicago, which dedicated to building a diverse, inclusive and equitable bicycle culture in Chicago, is conducting citywide outreach; and Go Bronzeville is focused on building local awareness in the Bronzeville community.

"Convenient and affordable transportation is a lynchpin to quality of life," said Rebekah Scheinfeld, Commissioner of the Chicago Department of Transportation (CDOT), which manages Divvy. "Divvy is a transportation resource that can help working families save money and can often make the difference in terms of providing crucial access to jobs. We're very excited to be able to expand access to Divvy through the D4E Program."

December 16, 2014

Mayor's Commission for a Safer Chicago Releases Collaborative Anti-Violence Report

Mayor Rahm Emanuel today joined the members of the Mayor's Commission for a Safer Chicago as they presented their report and a series of proposals to address youth violence. The Commission is an outgrowth of a series of three roundtable forums held this summer, in which leaders from City government, faith groups and community organizations gathered to discuss joint efforts to combat gun violence and strengthen communities.

"The powerful work being done between city government, community leaders, faith leaders and youth is a testament to the fact that the best ideas don't necessarily come from city hall," said Mayor Emanuel. "Together we have taken important steps forward, and I am committed to making sure the Commission for a Safer Chicago is a permanent fixture in youth violence prevention because their input reflects the wisdom and voices of people in neighborhoods throughout Chicago."

The Mayor's Commission for a Safer Chicago brings together over 130 City staff, community and faith leaders, practitioners, subject matter experts, parents, and youth, to provide tangible solutions to address youth violence. The group also engaged more than 200 youth from 15 Chicago communities in moderated discussions, ensure young people's ideas and feedback are part of the solutions developed.

This report, the Commission's first, is the result of intensive collaborative work throughout the fall of 2014. The Commission was tasked with updating for 2015 the City's strategic plan for youth violence prevention, with recommendations that build on current investments and leverage existing City and community resources. In keeping with its shared belief that violence is preventable, not inevitable, the Commission focused for this report on strategies designed to identify and intervene with youth at risk for becoming involved in violence.

"This has been such a great experience," said Evelyn Diaz, Commissioner of the Department of Family and Support Services. "People from across our city came together not just to talk about the problem of violence, but to roll up their sleeves and work side by the side with the City to develop meaningful solutions."

The Commission made recommendations in five issue areas, each designed to address the risk factors and root causes of youth violence - youth employment, health and healing, crating restorative school communities, safety and justice, and safe spaces and activities.

"Violence prevention isn't just the city's responsibility, it is all of our responsibility," said Rev. Dr. L. Bernard Jakes. "I really think this is a call to action. Whatever, your passion, wherever in the City you live, there is a way to be involved in the solutions that are part of this plan. We thank the Mayor for convening this group, for listening to what the community has to say, and for working with us to implement these ideas."