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Chicago Public Schools laid off 161 employees, including many crossing guards, in response to a growing $734 million budget deficit. The district plans to make further cuts and not fill over 200 vacant positions, raising concerns about the impact on school staffing as a new fiscal year begins.
Colores Mexicanos, a store on Chicago's Magnificent Mile, must vacate its location after the building was sold for $47 million. Co-owner Erika Espinosa stated they were not offered a lease renewal despite consistent sales, as the new owners plan to introduce a brand that can pay higher rent. The store, known for its vibrant Mexican crafts, became a local favorite and aims to find a new space nearby.
South Shore leaders announced the CorridorLive development plan for 71st Street, aiming to enhance local business investment and community engagement. The plan will be unveiled on August 24 and includes strategies for land use and branding to revitalize the area.
West Side faith leaders in Austin are offering a $5,000 reward for information related to an arson fire that killed four individuals, including a 5-year-old boy. The fire, which police are investigating as part of a domestic violence incident, has left 27 families displaced. Community leaders describe the event as a calculated act of terror.
Francis Almeda, a key figure in Chicago's Filipino food scene, showcases authentic Filipino flavors through his cafes and restaurants, including Side Practice Coffee and Novel Pizza Cafe. Almeda emphasizes cultural representation in his culinary offerings, which have gained popularity during the pandemic. His entrepreneurial journey reflects a shift from advertising to hospitality, driven by a desire to share his heritage.
Robert’s Fish Market in West Ridge reopens after owner Arturo Venegas' recovery from Guillain-Barré syndrome, a rare autoimmune disease. The market, which Venegas has operated since 2000, is temporarily open from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesday-Thursday and 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Fridays. His daughter expressed gratitude for community support during his illness.
Ernesto Mendoza opened Chicago Breakfast Restaurant in Edgebrook after 40 years of cooking at local diners. The menu features a mix of American and Mexican dishes, reflecting Mendoza's heritage and experience. The restaurant has quickly attracted former customers from his previous workplaces.
Jamil Elkoussa, 35, faces five counts of wire fraud for attempting to defraud the federal government of over $200 million through a fake COVID-19 testing scheme linked to Loretto Hospital. Elkoussa allegedly submitted false information about non-existent test specimens to a laboratory that processed fraudulent claims totaling $233 million. This follows previous charges against Loretto's former CFO, Anosh Ahmed, in related fraud cases.
Summer thunderstorms are forecasted for Monday as high humidity continues to affect the region. The sticky heat is expected to persist, with additional rain possible later in the week.
A 56-year-old man was stabbed to death during a fight at Navy Pier on Sunday, with a 64-year-old suspect in serious condition after also being injured. The altercation, which began as a verbal argument, occurred near the beer garden around 5:30 p.m. Police have not announced any charges as of Monday morning.