Bill Morton Supports Rogers Park Small Businesses: Charmers Cafe

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Bill Morton for 49th Ward Alderperson at Charmers Cafe in October 2026 "I stopped by Charmers Cafe at 1500 W. Jarvis Avenue, a local business I've supported since its earliest days.

The business has a history that goes back to 2006, when Dagel & Beli and Charmers Cafe were part of the growth and revitalization of Jarvis Square. Over the years, I've continued supporting the business through its different chapters, including when it was known as Dagel & Beli, later as Towbar, and now as Charmers Cafe.

The names have changed, and there have been different owners, managers, and staff along the way. But my commitment to supporting this neighborhood business has remained constant.

Locally owned Rogers Park small businesses are an important part of what makes our community a strong. They create jobs, bring neighbors together, and contribute to the character and economic vitality of our commercial corridors. Their success matters not only to the people who run them and work there, but also to the surrounding community.

Jarvis Square is an example of how neighborhood businesses can help bring people together and contribute to a stronger commercial district. Supporting these businesses means investing in our neighborhood, encouraging economic activity, and helping maintain the local places that become part of our daily lives.

In October of 2015, Bill Morton as Rogers Park Chamber of Commerce president partnered with the Rogers Park/West Ridge Historical Society, and the Leone Beach Park Advisory Council to host the first Sam Leone fundraiser at Towbar.

Pictured in this group photo are members of the Rogers Park Chamber of Commerce, Rogers Park/West Ridge Historical Society, Leone Beach Park Advisory Council, former Sam's Boys of the Leone Beach Jr. Lifeguards, owners and staff of Towbar, and members of the Rogers Park community. Large vinyl poster of Sam Leone was donated by The Lighthouse Tavern and printed by Sam Mistar of Premier Signs & Awnings.

As a longtime Rogers Park resident and candidate for 49th Ward Alderperson, I believe a strong neighborhood depends on more than buildings and infrastructure. It also depends on the people, independent businesses, and community connections that give our neighborhood its character.

If you're in the area, stop by Charmers Cafe at 1500 W. Jarvis Avenue for a cup of coffee or a bite to eat. Supporting local businesses is one simple way each of us can contribute to a stronger Rogers Park.

A stronger Rogers Park starts with supporting the local businesses that have been part of our community for years."

— Bill Morton for 49th Ward Alderperson Below: Who is the next Vivian Maier fundraiser by Rogers Park Chamber of Commerce president Bill Morton, Leone Beach Park Advisory Council, Rogers Park/West Ridge Historical Society, the Vivian Maier estate. Fundraiser benefited the Loyola Park Advisory Council, at Towbar on Saturday June 7, 2014.