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Palmer Square Park has become the Northwest Side's first arboretum, recognized by the Morton Arboretum's ArbNet Accreditation Program. The park features over 200 trees, including 28 distinct species, surpassing the 25-species requirement for accreditation. This designation enhances local tree preservation and educational opportunities for the community.
Chicago kicks off Halloween season with over 70 events for all ages, including parades, bar crawls, and family festivals. Notable highlights include the Arts in the Dark Parade on October 18 and the Haunted Halsted Halloween Parade on October 31. Residents can explore diverse activities throughout the city until early November.
Mayor Brandon Johnson issued an executive order prohibiting federal agents from using city-owned property for immigration enforcement in Chicago. The order encourages private property owners to post signs to deter federal agents, aiming to protect community trust and uphold the Welcoming City Ordinance. Legal action may follow if federal officials violate the order.
ChiArts students and parents express shock over the arts school's board decision to not renew its contract with Chicago Public Schools, jeopardizing its future. This decision has left students, like freshman Zamara Ramos, fearing for their education and community at the only public arts-focused high school in Chicago.
Chicago City Council committees blocked a proposal to clear sidewalks of snow, citing concerns over necessity and potential lawsuits. Advocates argued the Plow the Sidewalks program was essential for public safety, particularly for older residents and those with disabilities. Despite $500,000 allocated for the pilot, most alderpeople voted against it amid budgetary concerns.
President Trump ordered the deployment of 700 federal troops to Illinois, including 400 from Texas, to guard ICE facilities amid rising tensions with state officials. Governor JB Pritzker condemned the move as an "Invasion" and announced plans for legal action against the deployment. A federal judge blocked similar troop deployments to Oregon, raising questions about the legality of Trump's actions.
Cheese expert Erika Kubick released her second book, “Cheese Magic,” on September 16, exploring the links between cheese, magic, and seasonal traditions. She will celebrate with a free event on October 18 at Sideshow Gallery, featuring cheese plates, tarot readings, and book signings. Kubick aims to make cheese more approachable through simple recipes and a connection to spiritual practices.
Chicago's Hickory Water Polo Club, founded in 2023, has attracted a growing community of water polo enthusiasts at Oak Street Beach, averaging 80-90 participants each weekend. Coach Chris Mulcrone aims to revitalize the sport in Chicago after a decline during the COVID-19 pandemic. The club welcomes players of all skill levels, fostering a sense of community and connection through the sport.
The Chicago Marathon route offers numerous dining options for spectators seeking to support runners. The article highlights various eateries along the route, catering to those watching friends compete in the 26.2-mile race. These locations provide essential sustenance for spectators on race day.
Elected officials and union leaders in Chicago urged the community to protect immigrant students following recent ICE detentions. Chicago Public Schools reassured families that they do not collect immigration information and emphasized that federal agents require a warrant to enter schools. A mother and her children detained at Millennium Park were released, with community advocacy credited for their safety.