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Chicago's inaugural "Spelling Bee For Adults" attracted hundreds to Wicker Park, allowing participants to relive childhood experiences. Local teachers organized the event after a TikTok post went viral, drawing significant community interest. Leah DeYoung won the contest by spelling "promiscuous," highlighting the event's fun and inclusive atmosphere.
Universal Studios will open a horror-themed attraction, Universal Horror Unleashed, in Chicago by 2027, generating over $1 billion in economic impact and creating 400 jobs. This venue, located at 700 W. Chicago Ave., will feature immersive experiences similar to its Las Vegas counterpart. Chicago's location will be the first Universal attraction in the Midwest.
Ald. William Hall withdrew his request to rename West Chatham Park after Derrick Rose due to community backlash. Neighbors argued that the park's name should reflect local history and contributions rather than honor a celebrity not connected to the area. The West Chatham Improvement Association organized to oppose the renaming, emphasizing their community’s identity.
Four people, including a child, died in a suspicious fire at an Austin apartment building early Thursday. The fire, which broke out around 2 a.m., led to rapid spread and significant damage, prompting a large emergency response. Investigators are treating the scene as a crime scene following reports of gunshots and an explosion prior to the fire.
The Field Museum in Chicago opened its “Reptiles Alive!” exhibit on June 20, showcasing various reptile species from local areas and beyond. Curator Sara Ruane emphasizes the importance of appreciating local wildlife, highlighting that visitors can see up to 50 reptile species without leaving Illinois. The exhibit features live animals, interactive displays, and notable figures like Chance the Snapper, a local alligator celebrity.
Outspoken, a monthly LGBTQ+-centered storytelling series at Sidetrack in Chicago, has become a sanctuary for the community since its inception in 2014. Co-founder David Fink highlights the series' impact on visibility and empathy, fostering connections among attendees through shared narratives. The event consistently attracts a diverse audience eager to engage with personal stories.
Chicago's Pride Parade returns this weekend for its 54th year, emphasizing unity and safety amid national challenges. The event, themed "United in Pride," will take place on June 29 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. in Lakeview, with city officials urging attendees to prioritize hydration and report any emergencies.
Wicker Park residents Joe Gutstadt and Michael Schorsch confront a severe rat infestation in Dean Park, causing public health concerns. Despite city efforts to bait the area with poison, rats continue to thrive, prompting Gutstadt to document the issue on social media. The ongoing problem raises alarms about health risks associated with rodent presence in public spaces.
Artist Mike Norton celebrates two significant milestones this June with the debut of the SyFy adaptation of his comic “Revival” and the release of “Krypto: The Last Dog of Krypton.” Norton, known for his animal illustrations, particularly dogs, says he was immediately drawn to illustrating Krypto’s origin story. The series, which does not use dialogue, explores Krypto's beginnings on Krypton and his journey to Earth.
The LGBTQ+ community mourns Brendan Siddall, a 26-year-old performer with the Chicago Gay Men’s Chorus, who died in a hit-and-run crash in Lakeview early Saturday. Siddall was struck by a white Honda Accord while crossing DuSable Lake Shore Drive and was pronounced dead at the scene. Police are searching for the driver, who fled the scene.