Your trusted source for local Chicago, IL news, updated daily with the most important stories from your community.
Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson vetoed a youth curfew ordinance allowing police to impose “snap curfews” after a narrow City Council vote. Johnson emphasized the need for community safety investments and criticized the ordinance as potentially unconstitutional and harmful to civil rights. Alderman Brian Hopkins must now rally support to override the veto.
Thousands protested in downtown Chicago against Trump during the "No Kings" rally. In related news, former Illinois House Speaker Michael Madigan received a 7.5-year prison sentence and a $2.5 million fine. The week also featured a floating parade planned for the Chicago River, highlighting the city's vibrant arts scene.
Sister Rosemary Connelly, a prominent nun and leader of Misericordia Heart of Mercy in Chicago, passed away at 94. Known for her dedication to improving the lives of people with intellectual and developmental disabilities, she transformed the facility into a leading care home over her 50 years of stewardship. Her legacy includes advocating for community and independence for thousands of residents.
Gale Street Inn in Jefferson Park closed after 62 years, citing difficulties in hiring and retaining staff. Owner George Karzas announced the closure via social media, expressing gratitude for customer support during challenging times. The restaurant, known for its barbecued ribs, faced significant financial losses during the pandemic.
Weiss Memorial Hospital in Uptown ceased patient admissions and transferred its 45 patients due to a catastrophic air conditioning failure, which could take weeks to repair. The hospital, primarily serving vulnerable geriatric patients, redirected emergency room patients to West Suburban Hospital as temperatures soared to 90 degrees indoors.
Chicago hosts diverse events this weekend, including Pride Fest, Witch-O-Rama, and Vegandale. The lineup features special Pride shows at the Neo-Futurist Theater and the Bronzeville Vendor Fair. These activities aim to celebrate community and culture.
Brighton Park will see safety upgrades along Archer and Kedzie avenues, including protected bike lanes and pedestrian enhancements, as part of the Complete Streets initiative. City officials aim to reduce traffic fatalities in an area experiencing 43% more traffic deaths than other Chicago neighborhoods. Construction is set to begin this summer.
Four Illinois lawmakers were denied entry to an ICE processing center in Broadview, where conditions for detainees have been criticized as inhumane. Despite their entitlement as congresspeople to inspect the facility, they were instructed to submit a request via email. The lawmakers condemned the denial as unlawful, emphasizing the need for transparency and oversight.
Sidetrack, Chicago's largest gay bar, seeks approval to open a location in O'Hare Airport, potentially becoming the first gay bar in a U.S. airport. The proposal, led by Germán González of Somos Hospitality Group, aims to enhance airport concessions while showcasing the city's LGBTQ+ community. The decision on the proposal is expected in the coming months.
Chicago anticipates a severe heat wave this weekend, with temperatures exceeding 95 degrees. The National Weather Service warns of thunderstorms and potential flooding leading up to the heat, making conditions dangerously hot due to high humidity levels. Residents are advised to stay cool and utilize public libraries and community centers as cooling stations.