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National Guard deployment in Chicago is unlikely to reduce crime, according to local leaders and violence intervention experts. They argue that such an action could worsen tensions, especially given Chicago's history with the National Guard, which includes violent clashes in the past. Recent crime statistics indicate a decline in violence, suggesting that federal intervention is unnecessary.
A new running club called Out There unites LGBTQ+ and transgender athletes in Chicago, offering inclusive weekly runs and walks. Founded by Vanessa Righeimer, the group aims to create a supportive environment for individuals of all paces, with regular participation of 60-70 members. Out There also plans to expand its activities to include more community events and locations across the city.
Six minority-led development teams will construct 30 multi-unit housing developments on vacant city-owned lots in Chicago's South Side, part of the Missing Middle Infill Housing Initiative. The $39.4 million project aims to create 108 market-rate units and promote affordable homeownership in disinvested neighborhoods. City officials emphasize the importance of revitalizing these areas to help the middle class secure housing.
Seattle-based Noisy Creek announced its acquisition of the Chicago Reader, aiming to restore the publication's financial stability after recent layoffs. Founded in 1971, the Reader has faced significant challenges, including dwindling readership and ad revenue amid the pandemic. Noisy Creek plans to maintain editorial independence while introducing innovative revenue strategies to support local journalism.
The city plans to complete the Winnemac Avenue Neighborhood Greenway this year, connecting the Lakefront Trail to the North Shore Channel Trail. The 2.5-mile bike path aims to provide safer routes for cyclists, especially families and children, by using residential streets and advisory bike lanes. Although much of the route is finished, about 1 mile remains to be completed.
Wally Eliason, aged 90, seeks to pass on his community clean-up efforts in Mayfair after 26 years of service. The Mayfair Park Advisory Council plans to honor him with a flower garden featuring benches made from a 200-year-old oak tree. Eliason’s dedication has inspired locals and transformed neglected areas, promoting neighborhood pride and safety.
Chicago's dining scene features several tiny restaurants with impressive culinary offerings. Block Club highlights seven full-service eateries with limited seating, including Tom Yum Cafe and EL Ideas, which provide unique dining experiences despite their small size. New openings like the eight-seat Atsumeru promise to add to this vibrant food landscape.
Chicago puzzle maker Sandy Weisz launched his latest word game, Raddle, in March, inspired by popular games like Wordle. Raddle requires players to transform words step-by-step on a ladder, with daily puzzles and various themes drawing a growing audience. The game now attracts around 7,500 daily visitors, boosted by exposure from a popular YouTube streamer.
TNT Ramen opened as South Chicago's first ramen shop on August 1, replacing a former Mexican restaurant. Co-owners Antonio and Maricruz Macias aim to provide an affordable, authentic ramen experience with a limited menu featuring tonkatsu, chicken paitan, and vegetable ramen. The restaurant's gradual customer flow is expected to improve as temperatures drop.
A group of 10 burglars stole over $130,000 in designer merchandise from a Nordstrom store in River North on Sunday evening. The thieves, dressed in black and wearing face coverings, forced entry into the store, causing $5,000 in damages. No injuries were reported, and police are investigating the incident.