Your trusted source for local Chicago, IL news, updated daily with the most important stories from your community.
La Casa Playroom, a multicultural and bilingual play space for children, opened in Brighton Park, Chicago, catering to families with children aged 6 and younger. Founded by Angie Maciel-Wright and Jeremy Wright, the facility offers a variety of educational and recreational activities while prioritizing affordability for local families.
Candelite Chicago celebrates 75 years in business with a 1950s-themed anniversary party featuring an all-you-can-eat pizza buffet and live entertainment. Known for its iconic neon marquee and tavern-style pizza, the pizzeria has become a cherished spot for locals celebrating special occasions. Co-owner Pat Fowler highlights the restaurant's historical significance and the importance of its loyal staff.
A dead rat and a note labeling immigrants as “vermin” were found at Ald. Andre Vasquez's Lincoln Square office. Vasquez, who chairs the Committee on Immigrant and Refugee Rights, condemned the act and stated that the office will continue to support the immigrant community amidst ongoing investigations.
The Chicago Plan Commission approved the construction of the first nationally branded hotel in Pullman, a $30 million Hampton by Hilton, set to break ground this fall. The four-story hotel will feature 101 rooms and is expected to create 25 jobs, marking a significant development for the Far South Side after 40 years without a major hotel.
President Donald Trump has inaccurately labeled Chicago as the "murder capital of the world," despite data showing a decrease in the city's homicide rate. Mayor Brandon Johnson has emphasized the drop in violent crime, while local officials express doubts about the accuracy of crime statistics. Experts highlight the importance of considering crime rates relative to population size for meaningful comparisons.
Nash Elementary School in Austin launches new after-school art programs funded by a $200,000 grant aimed at violence prevention. The initiative, supported by the Chicago Arts Partnerships in Education, offers classes in graffiti, drumming, and African dance to engage at-risk students. The programs aim to boost student confidence and creativity while addressing social-emotional needs.
Jane Goodall, now 91, reflects on her journey from a young girl in England to a leading conservationist, inspired by her experiences in the forests of Gombe, Tanzania. After a significant conference at Chicago's Lincoln Park Zoo in the 1980s, her focus shifted towards global activism for conservation and endangered species. Goodall continues to inspire future generations through her Roots & Shoots program.
Cubs legend Anthony Rizzo celebrated his retirement at Wrigley Field, where he threw the first pitch and gave out free beer cards to fans. Known for his charisma, Rizzo participated in various ballpark traditions and received a signed baseball with a $100 bill from former teammate Ian Happ. Rizzo's retirement marks the end of a notable 14-year MLB career, highlighted by a World Series championship with the Cubs.
Thousands attended the 54th annual Mexican Independence Day Parade in Little Village on Sunday, defying federal immigration enforcement efforts. The event featured vibrant celebrations, including floats and live music, and served as a demonstration of community solidarity against ICE actions.
Seven individuals face murder charges following a smash-and-grab at the Louis Vuitton store on Chicago's Magnificent Mile that resulted in a fatal car crash. The incident occurred early Thursday, leading to the death of 40-year-old Mark Arceta, who was on his way to work when his vehicle was struck by a fleeing suspect. Authorities report nearly $700,000 in stolen merchandise was taken during the burglary.