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Chicago's economic landscape is shifting as significant companies like Amazon and Starbucks make notable changes. Amazon opens a distribution center in Bridgeport, creating 150 jobs, while Starbucks plans to close multiple stores and lay off 900 workers across the city. These developments highlight the fluctuating job market and ongoing challenges in the local economy.
The Taste of Chicago will return to its traditional July schedule in 2026 after being moved to September due to the NASCAR Street Race. Commissioner Clinée Hedspeth announced the event's projected timing during a City Council budget hearing, highlighting a rise in food and drink sales this year.
A federal immigration officer shot and killed Silverio Villegas-Gonzalez in Franklin Park after the man allegedly struck the officer with his car during an arrest attempt. Villegas-Gonzalez, who was in the U.S. illegally and had a history of reckless driving, was pronounced dead at a local hospital. The incident has drawn attention from local officials and community activists, raising concerns about law enforcement practices.
The Chicago Children’s Museum will host “Take Care with ‘Peanuts’: The Exhibit,” celebrating the 75th anniversary of the iconic comic strip starting Saturday and running through January 4. The exhibit features interactive displays that explore emotions and self-care through beloved characters like Charlie Brown and Lucy. A special event on October 3 will allow adults to experience the exhibit without children.
Neighbors can explore historical homes and gardens in Palmer Square during Logan Square Preservation's 35th Biennial House Walk on September 20. The event will feature seven houses, a vintage car show, and local artwork, with proceeds supporting tree planting in the neighborhood. General admission tickets are $35 until Sunday, increasing to $50 afterward.
Thrive Englewood, the first new family housing development in Englewood in over 50 years, opened Wednesday, offering 62 apartments with over 80% designated as affordable. Local officials celebrated the project, which received over $40 million in city funding, as a step towards revitalizing the neighborhood and providing resources for residents.
The Hidden Cove karaoke bar in Lincoln Square will close its doors for the final time this weekend after 60 years of operation. Patrons have gathered to sing their favorite songs in farewell, celebrating the sense of community the bar fostered. Flavius Ardelean plans to redevelop the site into a mixed-use building.
Artists in Chicago will unite Saturday for a fundraiser supporting the American Civil Liberties Union amid rising federal immigration enforcement. The event, called "Seconds for the First Amendment," will feature ceramic art donations, with proceeds benefiting the ACLU in response to fears surrounding Operation Midway Blitz. Organizers aim to inspire civic action through art while addressing community concerns over immigration policies.
The Chicago Sky's new mascot, Skye the Lioness, gained popularity after her viral dance performance at the team’s home game on August 25. Fans embraced Skye, contrasting her appeal with the previous mascot, Sky Guy, who faced widespread criticism and was removed after failing to resonate with the audience. The team aims to bring joy and entertainment to its fans through Skye's engaging presence.
Artists in Lincoln Square will raise funds for the ACLU on Saturday, responding to federal immigration concerns in Chicago. The “Seconds for the First Amendment” event features donated ceramic art pieces, with proceeds supporting civil rights efforts. Organizers aim to inspire community action through art as a form of resistance.