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Bridgeport, Chinatown, and McKinley Park offer unique shopping options this holiday season, featuring local businesses like Hoofprint and Vienna Beef Factory Store. Shoppers can find everything from handmade mugs to custom outfits for Labubus, showcasing the area's vibrant community spirit.
The Midwest Immigration Bond Fund seeks donations to assist detained immigrants in Illinois, Indiana, Wisconsin, and Kentucky with bond payments. A coalition of attorneys created the nonprofit to address the increased immigration enforcement by ICE, which has arrested over 3,000 individuals since September. Advocates emphasize that releasing immigrants on bond allows them to better advocate for their rights while avoiding harsh detention conditions.
Gold Coast's newest bar, Double Fun, draws inspiration from Robert Palmer’s 1978 album, offering a nostalgic tribute to '70s Hollywood. Owner Peter Vestinos serves highballs, frozen drinks, and a unique “Goddamn Whiskey Sour” at his corner spot on State and Elm.
Roscoe Village and neighboring areas feature a vibrant array of independent shops perfect for holiday shopping. Block Club reporters highlight several unique stores, including Maison Pasquale and Lazy Dog Antiques, emphasizing their offerings of distinctive gifts and vintage finds. This guide encourages local shopping to support small businesses and discover hidden gems.
Chicago boasts a diverse array of ethnic enclaves and immigrant-owned businesses, particularly during the holiday season. The gift guide features six local shops, including Blazed Bakery, a Pakistani-owned establishment selling THC-infused baked goods, and Dulcelandia, the largest Mexican candy distributor in the Midwest.
Humboldt Park will receive $13.1 million in improvements, including a new football field for the Humboldt Park Patriots and upgrades to the fieldhouse, tennis courts, and pool house. The project is funded primarily by a local tax-increment financing district, with $11.85 million allocated from the Division/Homan TIF package approved by the City Council. These enhancements aim to address community requests for better recreational spaces.
Block Club Chicago won the title of Best Daily News Site from Editor & Publisher magazine in an international competition. The nonprofit newsroom, founded in 2018, has published over 29,000 stories, focusing on local issues affecting Chicago neighborhoods.
Local Austin businesses offer unique holiday gifts, emphasizing the importance of shopping local this season. Notable options include artisanal treats from Bitoy's Sweet Treats and handmade cheesecakes from Schweet Original Homemade Chicago Cheesecake. Other highlights feature garden items from Garfield Park Conservatory and specialty salts from Keep It Savory Salt Co.
The Far Southwest Side of Chicago offers a diverse range of shops for holiday gift shopping, including established businesses like Bookie's and newer spots such as Dream Girl Studio. Local shops encourage community support while providing unique gifts, from handmade jewelry to curated home decor.
The recent government shutdown disrupted SNAP benefits, affecting approximately 2 million Illinois residents and raising concerns about food insecurity. In response, Chicagoans have organized food pantries, soup giveaways, and even birthday cake offers to support those in need. Local efforts demonstrate community solidarity amid ongoing challenges with food assistance.