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The National Museum of Puerto Rican Arts & Culture is developing a sculpture garden and educational space, set to open on September 8 as part of its 25th anniversary. The garden will feature a mural depicting Puerto Rican migration history and will host various community programs. City officials and local organizations have approved the project, which aims to enhance the Humboldt Park area.
Two mass shootings in Chicago over the weekend resulted in one death and seven injuries. The first incident occurred early Saturday morning on South Houston Avenue, while the second shooting took place Sunday afternoon on West Ferdinand Avenue. Police reported no arrests in connection with either shooting.
O'Hare Airport's apiary, established in 2011, provides a unique training ground for formerly incarcerated individuals through the North Lawndale Employment Network's Sweet Beginnings program. The initiative has produced over 1,000 graduates and significantly reduced recidivism rates among its participants. Sweet Beginnings not only fosters job skills but also promotes community engagement through the sale of honey and related products.
Hundreds of protesters gathered in Daley Plaza to honor Rep. John Lewis and advocate for justice and voting rights five years after his death. The nationwide “Good Trouble Lives On” protest criticized policies from the Trump administration targeting marginalized communities. Speakers emphasized the need for continued action to uphold Lewis's legacy and protect civil rights.
Chicago's City Council meeting this week was notably lengthy, reflecting significant local issues. Block Club reporters highlighted various neighborhood happenings, including Walter Burnett's farewell and traffic concerns on the Kennedy Expressway.
NASCAR will not host the Chicago Street Race in 2026 but aims to return in 2027 after pausing to collaborate with city officials. This year’s race, held over the Independence Day weekend, attracted over 79,000 attendees and generated $128 million in economic impact.
A coalition of older Chicago residents and activists proposed a "Senior Bill of Rights" to protect seniors from predatory housing practices. Introduced by Ald. Jeanette Taylor, the ordinance seeks to reopen the Department of Aging and implement new safeguards for residents aged 55 and older. Mayor Brandon Johnson expressed support for the proposal and is assessing its budget implications.
Demolition of the Damen Silos in McKinley Park began Monday, advancing ahead of schedule. Neighbors and preservation advocates have expressed concerns about pollution risks associated with the demolition, which follows a contentious sale of the land to MAT Limited for $6.5 million.
Chicago's all-girls baseball team, Perfect Catch, prepares for the 2025 Baseball For All Nationals after a successful start as the Humboldt Park Gators. The team, supporting nearly 50 girls aged 11-18, aims to break barriers in a sport traditionally seen as male-dominated. Star player Amira Hondras recently earned a college scholarship and made history by participating in a prestigious all-star game.
Austin has designated its first official safe zone, named the ASAP Safe Zone, aimed at preventing gun violence and promoting youth programs. Established in 2021, the zone offers various programs, including internships and mental health resources, and recently expanded to include a new arts space. Organizers, led by Aisha Oliver, emphasize community-building to engage local youth.