Latest News in Chicago, IL

Legendary Sun-Times Columnist Mary Mitchell Is First Black Woman Honored On Billy Goat Wall

Mary Mitchell, the first Black woman honored on the Billy Goat Tavern's wall, celebrated her impactful journalism career at a recent gathering. With a legacy of holding power accountable and amplifying Black voices, she reflects on her journey from legal secretary to award-winning columnist at the Chicago Sun-Times. Mitchell believes inspiring her siblings to pursue their education has been one of her greatest achievements.

Family Taken By Feds Downtown Separated In Detention Centers Theyre Locking Up Children

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.

Chicagoans Encouraged To Get Flu, COVID Shots As Health Department Breaks With Feds

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.

Crumbs.nd.Creams, Chicagos 1st Silvana Shop, Opens In Albany Park

Katrina Requiron and her husband, Mharloe, opened Crumbs.nd.Creams, Chicago's first silvana shop, in Albany Park on September 13, 2025. The couple sells homemade silvanas, Filipino sandwich cookies, and quickly attracted a line of customers from the local Filipino community. Despite initial fears, they embraced the support and are excited to share their culture through their desserts.

Sculpture Walk Connecting Jefferson And Portage Park To Be Unveiled This Weekend

A sculpture walk connecting Jefferson Park and Portage Park will be unveiled Saturday, featuring 10 sculptures along a 2-mile route. The project, funded by a $300,000 grant, aims to enhance public art and community engagement, according to state Sen. Robert Martwick.

One Way Boxing Opens On Goose Island With A Mission That Goes Beyond The Ring

David Ortiz opened One Way Boxing Club on Goose Island to provide a safe and affordable space for Chicago youth and families. The gym features a boxing ring, performance training center, and weight room, all aimed at promoting community and accessibility in athletics. Ortiz emphasizes equal treatment for all members, regardless of their financial situation.

North Lawndales Only Record Store Blends Global Music Deep Cuts With American Classics

Discos Calidad, North Lawndale’s sole record store, offers a diverse collection of Latin music and American classics. Owner Leo Guzman aims to serve both global Latin music enthusiasts and local community members, hosting events and fostering connections. The shop, which opened two years ago, has become a vital community hub.

This Art Installation Memorializes The Places Weve Lost Forever, In Chicago And Beyond

The Chicago Architecture Center hosts "The Disappointed Tourist," an art exhibit featuring 312 paintings by Ellen Harvey that depict lost places. The installation invites public contributions, reflecting on the emotional impact of spaces no longer in existence. Harvey aims to create a diverse collection, highlighting both well-known and personal memories of loss.

Extra! Extra! Block Club And Half Acre Made A Beer

Block Club Chicago partnered with Half Acre Beer Co. to unveil Extra! Extra! Xtra Pale Ale, a 4.2% ABV brew featuring tropical fruit and pine aromas. The Block Party, set for Saturday at Half Acre in Bowmanville, will donate $1 from each pint sold to support local journalism.

Pilsen Neighbors Urge City To Reject Fisk Power Station Demolition Permits

Pilsen residents and Ald. Byron Sigcho-Lopez urge the city to deny Midwest Generation's request for demolition permits for parts of the Fisk Generating Station, citing environmental and health concerns. The city has yet to approve the permits, as neighbors demand better protections due to the area's history of pollution.