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Chicago's Burnham Building in Jackson Park will undergo restoration as a public restroom with a $500,000 federal grant. The project, which aims to adhere to historic preservation standards, is expected to take about a year once construction begins.
Fifteen-year-old John ‘Maj’ Thomas, a valedictorian from John M. Smyth Elementary, was shot and killed while biking in Little Italy on Halloween. His funeral revealed his vibrant personality and the deep love his family and friends had for him, as they remembered him as compassionate and fun-loving. Police continue to investigate the shooting, which was potentially linked to a robbery attempt.
Texas National Guard members are returning home as the Department of Homeland Security has vacated its command center in Chicago. These developments signal the reduction of federal immigration enforcement operations in the area, following the departure of Border Patrol chief Gregory Bovino.
Mayor Brandon Johnson signed an executive order to redirect city funds to food banks and organizations combating food insecurity after changes to SNAP benefits. The order aims to support food assistance programs amid rising demand following the recent federal government shutdown. Johnson emphasized the need to ensure no Chicagoan goes hungry due to federal policy changes.
Several new businesses have opened in Gladstone Park's Milwaukee Avenue corridor, including Chiquita Scoops, which offers Puerto Rican and Mexican-inspired snacks. Corral House Bar & Grill and Antioch Pizza Shop also joined the local food scene, enhancing dining options in the area. Stefani’s Bottega Italiana announced a pause in its restaurant service amid these developments.
Chicago businesses selling hemp-derived products face a crisis after a federal bill bans these items. The legislation closes a loophole that permitted THC concentration in hemp, forcing businesses to remove products within a year. Local entrepreneurs argue the ban threatens their livelihoods and could push the market underground.
Chicago Public Schools offer free virtual therapy to high school students through Hazel Health, but privacy advocates raise concerns over potential violations of Illinois student privacy laws. Despite the program's intent to address a mental health crisis among teens, advocates argue that the consent form could allow misuse of student data for profit.
The Chicago City Council approved a zoning change for a cannabis dispensary near Wrigley Field, clearing the way for Entourage Holdings to open at 3650 N. Clark St. The dispensary, which will operate daily from 9 a.m. to 10 p.m., will implement security measures and contribute to veteran organizations as part of its community engagement.
A new immigration rule threatens the work permits of thousands of immigrants by eliminating automatic extensions during renewal processing. Legal experts warn that long processing times may leave many unable to work legally, impacting their access to benefits tied to employment authorization.
Nolan Hart, 32, was found dead from blunt force injuries in a Lakeview apartment stairwell on October 27. His family believes he was murdered and is seeking public assistance in the ongoing investigation, which has not yet identified any suspects. Hart's death has raised concerns among local residents about safety and communication from property management.