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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.
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.
Smoque BBQ has filed a trademark opposition against Weber-Stephen Products LLC over its new Weber Smoque smoker, which could confuse customers. Smoque BBQ, a popular restaurant in Chicago, has held the "Smoque" trademark for over a decade and fears that Weber's use of the name will dilute its brand. The dispute has escalated, with Weber's legal team arguing that the two brands operate in different markets.
Chicago will experience a brief cooldown with temperatures reaching 74 degrees Thursday and 80 degrees Friday, but humidity will return over the weekend. Meteorologist Bill Snyder reports that this summer has already recorded 18 days above 90 degrees, surpassing the average for a typical summer. The warm weather is attributed to a shift in the Bermuda-Azores High pressure system and increased humidity from corn evapotranspiration.
Sol Space, a new yoga studio and coworking space, opened in Jefferson Park, Chicago, this month. Co-owned by Georgena Hurst and Jackie Bravo Vicere, Sol Space aims to serve as a community center, offering yoga classes, coworking, and childcare programs. The studio plans to host workshops and feature local artists and businesses.
Two murals in Pilsen promoting Mexican-Palestinian solidarity were vandalized shortly after completion, with one incident involving an assault on a bystander. Additionally, a Venezuelan restaurant in Back of the Yards faced defacement, reflecting a broader rise in anti-immigrant and anti-Palestinian sentiments. Local experts warn that such acts of vandalism and hate speech intimidate minority communities.
City officials commemorated the 739 victims of the 1995 Chicago heat wave during a 30th-anniversary event, highlighting ongoing efforts to prevent similar tragedies. Mayor Brandon Johnson emphasized the need for equitable access to climate resilience resources, noting that only 30% of single-family homes in Chicago have air conditioning. Initiatives include expanding tree coverage and developing a Heat Vulnerability Index to identify at-risk neighborhoods.
Chicago singles gathered for a speed-dating event themed around the viral "Man In Finance" song, attracting over 100 participants despite the lack of tall, wealthy men. Organizers aimed to foster in-person connections amid frustrations with online dating platforms. Attendees engaged in activities like speed-dating bingo to break the ice and spark conversations.
Atelier, a Michelin-starred restaurant in Lincoln Square, will close its current location on Saturday to move to a new, undisclosed site in the neighborhood. The restaurant raised $485,340 through a fundraising campaign to facilitate the move and ensure increased visibility. Owner Tim Lacey noted a surge in diners as the final service approaches.
Ald. Stephanie Coleman proposed a law requiring all boaters to wear life vests following the drowning of stylist Zahrie Walls. The ordinance aims to enhance safety on all vessels, imposing fines of up to $500 for violations. Coleman emphasized the need for protective measures to prevent future tragedies.