North Lawndale Community News

07/02/2025

The North Lawndale Community gathered at Douglass Park to address the recent shootings of two teenagers by a Chicago Park District lifeguard.

06/24/2025

Rev. Marvin Hunter walks with a group during the first annual North Lawndale Juneteenth Parade. The parade concluded on the grounds of Grace Manor affordable housing complex, which is under construction.

06/20/2025

Photos from the first annual North Lawndale Juneteenth Celebration and Parade.

06/20/2025

Juneteenth celebration and parade in North Lawndale.

06/13/2025

Birdwatchers Flock to Chicago’s West Side Parks: A Growing Haven for Nature and Community

By Todd Thomas

June 2, 2025

The parks of Chicago’s West Side are experiencing a feathered revival—and birders are taking notice.
Once overshadowed by the North Side’s lakefront hotspots, green spaces in neighborhoods like Austin, North Lawndale, and Humboldt Park are now emerging as must-visit destinations for birdwatching. With binoculars in hand and cameras at the ready, groups of nature lovers—many from outside the area—are now regulars in Columbus, Humboldt, Garfield and Douglass Parks.
One recent evening bird walk in Douglass Park organized by the Chicago Ornithological Society and led by experienced bird guide Sammy Cabindol drew nearly thirty birders for a two-hour tour.
“Douglass Park has become one of my favorite places to bird,” said Cabindol. “It’s accessible, has an easy-to-navigate landscape, and offers close-up views thanks to low tree canopies. It’s also on the South/Southwest side, which many birders don’t often explore. I love using this park to introduce birders to lesser-known gems in the city.”
The group enjoyed a memorable outing, spotting dozens of species including Canada Warblers, Cedar Waxwings, and a nesting Baltimore Oriole. A highlight of the evening was a sighting of ten Common Nighthawks—an especially thrilling find given the species’ notable population decline across North America.
“We saw amazing birds that evening,” said Cabindol. “We are incredibly fortunate in Chicago to have so many accessible green spaces.
For longtime birder Eric Gyllenhaal, the West Side parks hold decades of memories and after many years of counting birds he has noticed a decline in numbers.
“I’ve been birding these parks for about 20 years, and I’ve definitely noticed a decline in some species,” Gyllenhaal said. “There were times I saw 50, 60, even 70 species in a single outing. But the number of individuals within those species has dropped, especially warblers. It’s a reminder of how important these habitats are.”
Yet, even amid ecological concerns, the energy and enthusiasm around birding continue to grow—along with the recognition of the health and social benefits that come with it.
“Chicago and Cook County have some of the most green space per urbanized area in the country, and “Spending time outdoors—whether birding, biking, walking, or just relaxing—has proven mental health benefits. You don’t even have to be a birder to enjoy nature. Just being outside makes a difference,” Cabindol said.
And while early mornings are traditionally prime time for bird sightings, Gyllenahall said that it’s not the only option.
“It’s best to get out by 7 or 8 a.m., but even 9 a.m. or later can be rewarding,” he said. “Late afternoons and early evenings can also be surprisingly productive. Some species, like nighthawks and owls, are best seen after dark.”
Spring bird migration is winding down but there are still several months of great birding in store. Summer is just beginning and there’s still ample time to connect with nature right in the neighborhood.

05/16/2025

Migrating birds, some passing through Douglass Park and some making nests, make the park a lot more interesting for nature lovers.

03/05/2025

The 2nd Annual Girls’ Day of Play, presented by Gatorade and hosted by the Chicago Bulls at the Advocate Center, kicked off Women’s History Month with a day of empowerment and inspiration for 150 young athletes. The event featured a keynote address from Edniesha Curry, former WNBA player and NBA assistant coach, who shared her journey of perseverance in sports. Along with a panel discussion led by professional athletes, including Chicago Sky Guard Rachel Banham, the day offered valuable insights into leadership and teamwork. The all-female Bulls Youth Hoops coaching staff provided expert training, while Gatorade’s Hydration Break & Chat emphasized the importance of self-care and proper hydration. Beyond basketball, the event celebrated women’s contributions to sports and highlighted the need for increased participation among young girls, especially in underserved communities. It was a powerful reminder of the bright future ahead for female athletes, thanks to the support of partners like the Chicago Bulls, Gatorade, and Chicago Sky.

01/27/2025

Manley visited Senn on Saturday and had mixed results, with the boys winning 65-38 and the girls losing 49-38. The girls are having a breakout season and at 15-4 the Lady Wildcats lead the Chicago Blue Northwest Conference. The boys are in second place in the White West Conference.

12/28/2024

12/19/2024

Looking back at our summer birding program. We'll do it again in 2025. Thanks to the Chicago Ornithological Society for their support.

07/24/2024

Major tree damage in Columbus Park after high winds and possible a tornado swept through the area.

07/19/2024

Youth Violence Prevention Team members on a birding hike in Columbus Park. The hike was led by expert birding guide J'orge Garcia of the Citybirds Project.