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Customs and Border Protection Chief Gregory Bovino announced the launch of Operation At Large in Chicago, targeting criminal illegal aliens. The operation follows a recent ICE-led initiative, Operation Midway Blitz, which reportedly resulted in 250 arrests. Local officials, including Governor JB Pritzker, criticized the militarized approach of federal agents in the city.
Maison Pasquale, a new specialty food and wine shop, opened in Roscoe Village, inspired by European markets. Co-founders Julia Casale and Patrick Walsh aim to create a neighborhood gathering place that showcases local and imported products. The shop features a deli counter, pantry staples, and a selection of wines and spirits.
Chicago's Financial Future Task Force recommends raising garbage and rideshare fees, increasing liquor taxes, and extending a hiring freeze to address a $1 billion budget gap in 2026. The coalition's report includes nearly 90 proposals, some requiring state approval, to combat the city's financial challenges.
The Chicago Park District plans to expand Park No. 571, located along Bubbly Creek, following a $500,000 renovation that includes new fishing stations and a nature play space. Ald. Nicole Lee announced intentions to purchase an adjacent 3.7-acre lot for park expansion, previously part of a gas plant, pending environmental cleanup. The park, which opened in 2016, has seen improved biodiversity thanks to restoration efforts.
Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) arrested nearly 400 individuals in the Chicago area shortly after President Trump's inauguration. While some details have emerged about the arrests, significant information, such as names and specific charges, remains undisclosed due to privacy concerns, complicating public accountability efforts.
President Trump threatened to send National Guard troops to Chicago, claiming the city needs to be "saved." His comments followed the signing of an executive order to deploy troops to Memphis, where he said federal agents previously helped reduce crime. Local leaders in Chicago opposed the potential military presence, arguing it could disrupt community life.
Chicago restaurateur Sam Sanchez urged the Trump administration to slow deportations and support immigration reform during a visit to Washington, D.C. Sanchez, a Trump supporter, expressed concern over the deportation of nonviolent immigrants and advocated for the bipartisan Dignity Act, which would provide undocumented immigrants a path to legal status. He warned that aggressive immigration policies could alienate Hispanic voters ahead of the 2024 elections.
The Urban Male Network Empowerment Center opened in Englewood, offering young men of color access to arts, mental health support, and mentorship. The center features a podcast studio, gaming space, and basketball court, repurposed from a vacant building at a cost of $180,000, funded by donations and fundraising. CEO Marlon Haywood emphasized the importance of creating safe spaces for youth in his home community.
EPIC Academy, a charter high school in South Chicago, may close by the end of the school year due to declining enrollment, which has fallen to 254 students. The school's board will meet Wednesday to discuss the possible closure in light of financial challenges and a recent contract extension from the Chicago Board of Education.
Klairmont Kollections in Belmont Cragin will host an auction this weekend featuring over 275 collector vehicles and thousands of pieces of road art. The event, organized by Mecum Auctions, marks the closing of the automotive museum that has been a local treasure for more than a decade. Bidders from across the U.S. are expected to attend to purchase iconic items, including a Batmobile and a Bentley once owned by Michael Jordan.