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Odalys Ramirez, known as “The Flower Dealer,” has transformed the floral gifting tradition with her innovative arrangements at SRVD Chicago in West Elsdon. After starting her floral journey from home, she now creates unique designs that challenge conventional norms, including arrangements made from dollar bills and collaborations with local businesses.
The city issued demolition permits for the Damen Silos, ending efforts to preserve the structures. Neighbors expressed concerns over environmental impacts and sought to convert the site into public spaces. Demolition is scheduled to begin after the Fourth of July weekend.
Chicago police closed nearly a third of fatal shooting cases without resolving them, often due to prosecutors declining to file charges. Families of victims, like Jeremiah Lee's, express pain and confusion over the designation of cases as cleared without arrests. The disconnect between police and prosecutors contributes to these unresolved cases.
Illinois lawmakers proposed the No Secret Police Act of 2025, restricting ICE agents from wearing masks and requiring them to identify themselves. The measure aims to enhance accountability and transparency in law enforcement, addressing concerns over masked agents making arrests without clear identification. Local officials express that these tactics create fear within communities.
“The Bear” Season 4 on Hulu focuses on the personal lives of chef Carmy Berzatto and restaurant staff while still celebrating Chicago's culinary culture. Notable appearances include Alpana restaurant and the Frank Lloyd Wright Home & Studio, where characters draw inspiration from local food and art. The season emphasizes the show's commitment to authenticity and local connections.
Two friends launched the Strange Bar Sunday Instagram account to explore and document Chicago's unique bars, starting from their visit to the Podlasie Club in Avondale in 2014. The pair, who prefer to remain anonymous, now have tens of thousands of followers and focus on capturing the authentic atmosphere of local watering holes. Their adventures reveal Chicago's hidden taverns, emphasizing the social significance of these establishments in a digital age.
Three new coffee shops, including a pop-up trailer, opened recently in Pilsen, offering a range of coffee drinks and pastries. Café Carranza serves Mexican-inspired coffee and smoothies, while Spoke & Bird features locally sourced ingredients. Café Solera, a pop-up, brings Mexican coffee drinks and hosted a block party for its launch.
The National Weather Service warns Chicagoans to avoid swimming and boating in Lake Michigan on Monday due to waves reaching up to 7 feet and dangerous currents. A father and son drowned over the weekend amid high waves, underscoring the risks associated with swimming during such conditions.
Shane van Gisbergen claimed his third title at the NASCAR Chicago Street Race, winning The Loop 110 on Saturday. The race featured a close finish, with van Gisbergen edging out Connor Zilisch by less than a second. Attendees enjoyed sunny weather and free admission for children, attracting many first-time visitors.
Chicago neighborhoods celebrated Independence Day with vibrant fireworks displays despite their illegal status in Illinois. Pilsen residents held a block party tradition for over two decades, where families lit fireworks and enjoyed the festive atmosphere. Firefighters responded to multiple fire-related incidents during the celebrations, urging safety and caution.