Your trusted source for local Chicago, IL news, updated daily with the most important stories from your community.
Kevin Sofen launched Scoop the Poop in Wicker Park to combat the issue of dog waste in the community. His initiative has installed 28 dispensers and 50 signs to encourage residents to pick up after their pets, inspired by a viral social media post after he personally cleaned his street. Sofen aims to improve neighborhood cleanliness and public health while fostering community involvement.
Layne Fargo's novel "The Favorites," inspired by ice dancing and the classic "Wuthering Heights," has become a bestselling beach read this summer. The book follows ambitious ice dancer Katarina and her partner Heath as they navigate competition and obsession on the road to Olympic glory. Fargo, a devoted Olympics fan, drew on her passion for the sport despite not being an ice dancer herself.
Sakana Sushi has opened on Wabash Avenue, succeeding M Lounge and Roots Handmade Pizza, which are closing. M Lounge, a staple for 20 years, is transitioning ownership, while Roots is ending its five-year run in Printers Row.
A developer plans to construct a $6 million, 28,000-square-foot mixed-use building on a vacant lot in Chinatown, featuring medical offices and a riverfront restaurant. The proposal includes outdoor dining areas and on-site parking, pending City Council approval. The city favored this project over two others, citing its potential to enhance the area’s connectivity and identity.
A federal judge ordered the release of Noemi Chavez and her two children after their detention by U.S. Customs and Border Protection agents in Millennium Park. Their father, Jaime Ramirez, remains in custody and has been transferred to a Texas immigration facility. The family’s attorneys argue their detention violated their rights under the Immigration and Nationality Act.
Local artists have called for a boycott of the House of Sol music festival after founder Ricardo Hernandez was arrested for multiple domestic violence-related incidents. DJ Amanda Talavera raised awareness of Hernandez's history to protect fellow artists, leading to at least one performer canceling their appearance. Festival organizers acknowledged the concerns but committed to hosting the event.
Veterans and free speech advocates protested against the arrests of demonstrators outside an ICE facility in Broadview, condemning the federal response to their protests against immigration policies. At least five individuals face federal charges following tensions during recent protests, where federal agents reportedly used force against demonstrators. Organizers argue that the ongoing actions by ICE reflect a disregard for civil rights and human dignity.
Chicago could experience record-breaking temperatures this weekend, with highs reaching the 80s and 90s, surpassing the average high of 60s for early October. The National Weather Service forecasts a high of 84 degrees on Friday, potentially breaking the historical record of 91 degrees set in 1954. Temperatures are expected to cool down starting Tuesday.
U.S. Customs and Border Protection agents detained an Albany Park family during a visit to Millennium Park, separating parents Noemi Chavez and Jaime Ramirez from their children. Neighbors reported that the family, originally from Guatemala, is now being held at O'Hare Airport, with plans to transfer them to a detention center in Texas.
The Chicago Department of Health urges residents to receive flu and updated COVID-19 vaccinations as respiratory virus season begins. The city diverges from federal recommendations, advocating for widespread vaccination based on a thorough review of data by the Illinois Immunization Advisory Committee. Free vaccines will be available at city clinics, starting with COVID-19 shots for individuals aged 12 and older.