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The Chicago Department of Public Health (CDPH) announced its participation in the Univision Family Wellness Expo on March 29, 2025, offering free flu and COVID-19 vaccines. The event aims to promote public health awareness, with Dr. Francisco Rodriguez speaking on the importance of mental health services. The CDPH also encourages residents to confirm their measles vaccination status due to the disease's high contagion rate.
Starting April 1, 2025, Chicago will implement automated speed enforcement cameras at 16 new locations near schools and parks, issuing warnings for the first 30 days. Citations will follow for vehicles exceeding speed limits, aimed at enhancing traffic safety. This initiative is part of a broader strategy to promote safer driving and reduce accidents in the city.
Mayor Brandon Johnson has appointed LaKenya White as the acting interim Chief Administrator for the Civilian Office of Police Accountability (COPA) in Chicago. With 25 years of experience in investigative roles, White aims to strengthen community ties and continue the agency's mission of police oversight. Her extensive background in police accountability positions her as a leader in enhancing the agency's effectiveness.
Mayor Brandon Johnson addressed ongoing negotiations between Chicago Public Schools (CPS) and the Chicago Teachers Union (CTU), expressing optimism for a tentative agreement. Key issues include preparation time for teachers, the evaluation system, and veteran educator retention, with significant progress reported. The mayor emphasized the importance of a fair contract for educators and the overall benefit to Chicago's public schools.
The Chicago White Sox will kick off their baseball season on March 27 at Rate Field, with the first pitch scheduled for 3:10 p.m. Residents and fans are reminded to remain vigilant, report any suspicious activity, and adhere to traffic and parking guidelines due to expected crowds. The event will feature a military flyover and increased security measures to ensure public safety.
The Chicago Department of Aviation is set to host its 4th Annual Airport Expo and Job Fair on May 1, 2025, at Midway International Airport. This event aims to connect job seekers with employment opportunities in the aviation sector, highlighting the city's commitment to workforce development. The fair is expected to attract numerous local employers, providing a vital platform for job seekers in Chicago.
The City of Chicago has announced a temporary closure of the bike lane on Washington Street between Wells and LaSalle starting March 24, 2025, to facilitate a ComEd Vault Roof Replacement project. Cyclists will be rerouted to share the bus lane during this period, while weekend closures will fully restrict vehicular traffic to accommodate crane operations. The city emphasizes that pedestrian and regular traffic will not be affected during work hours.
Mayor Johnson will honor the high school basketball teams from Hope Academy and Walter H. Dyett High School for the Arts at City Hall following their state championship victories. This event highlights the accomplishments of these teams, with Hope Academy achieving its first-ever state title and Dyett demonstrating resilience and pride in the face of challenges. The celebration underscores the significance of local sports in fostering community spirit and pride.
Alderman Jason Ervin urges the Chicago Board of Education to honor its commitment to pay a significant portion of the MEABF pension payment, emphasizing the importance of collaboration between the Board and the City Council. In his editorial, Ervin highlights the potential financial consequences for the city if the payment is not made, including jeopardizing a substantial surplus. The piece calls for a productive partnership to enhance the educational landscape in Chicago rather than a political standoff.
The Chicago Department of Public Health (CDPH) is urging residents aged 65 and older to stay up-to-date on their COVID-19 vaccinations, specifically recommending a second dose of the updated 2024-2025 vaccine. To facilitate this, CDPH is partnering with the Department of Family and Support Services to host senior vaccination clinics throughout March and April, offering both COVID-19 and flu vaccines at no out-of-pocket cost. This initiative underscores the city's commitment to protecting its most vulnerable populations during the ongoing pandemic.