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At least eight people died and 50 were injured in Chicago over Labor Day weekend, raising fears that President Trump may deploy federal troops. Local leaders, including Governor Pritzker and Mayor Johnson, condemned the federal intervention as unconstitutional, despite Trump's claims of a crime crisis.
Edgewater's Ridge Avenue is set to reopen after a major sewer main replacement project. Meanwhile, construction has begun on Clark Street and will soon start on Ashland Avenue, continuing the trend of traffic disruptions in the area.
Bam Bam, a 14-year-old dachshund and emotional support dog for Angel Santiago, is recovering after being stolen for two months. The dog returned with health issues but is now regaining strength thanks to veterinary care and community support. A fundraiser has raised over $21,000 to cover Bam Bam's medical expenses and improve security for Santiago's home.
The Hidden Cove karaoke bar in Lincoln Square will close on September 15 after decades of operation. Owner Bonnie Brown cited declining business conditions, while new property owner Flavius Ardelean plans to redevelop the site into a mixed-use building. Fans have expressed their sadness over the impending closure on social media.
Wicker Park hosted its inaugural Meet Me On Milwaukee event, closing Milwaukee Avenue to cars on Sunday to promote pedestrian and cyclist traffic. The event aims to increase foot traffic to local businesses, with future dates scheduled for September 28 and October 26. Mayor Brandon Johnson endorsed the initiative, calling it a model for enhancing business corridors in Chicago.
Demonstrators in Chicago's West Loop marched on Labor Day to oppose billionaires allegedly supporting a presidential administration planning to deploy federal troops. Mayor Brandon Johnson emphasized the need to defend democracy and the rights of Chicagoans, rallying union members and local leaders against the potential troop deployment.
Matt Dolan launched PutterBird, a portable mini-golf course from his West Town garage, which has gained popularity for events like weddings and graduation parties. The course, featuring nine handcrafted holes, is fully booked through October with rental packages ranging from $200 to $1,000. Dolan aims to expand the course to 18 holes, reflecting on the success of his pandemic-inspired project.
Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson signed an executive order demanding President Trump halt plans to deploy federal troops to the city. The Protecting Chicago Initiative emphasizes local law enforcement's independence from federal immigration enforcement and outlines measures to protect residents' rights. Johnson aims to defend democracy and community safety amidst mixed reactions from locals regarding the potential military presence.
Chicago faces a projected budget deficit of $1.15 billion for 2026, alongside a $146 million gap for the remainder of 2025, as announced by Mayor Brandon Johnson. The mayor emphasizes transparency regarding the city's financial challenges but has yet to provide a clear plan for addressing the deficit.
The Chicago Department of Transportation implemented traffic-calming measures around Portage Park Elementary School, significantly improving pedestrian safety. The upgrades, which included speed bumps and a raised crosswalk, aimed to reduce chaotic traffic conditions and enhance visibility for walkers and cyclists. Local parents and officials celebrated the changes, which followed a history of severe accidents in the area.