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Hundreds celebrated the grand opening of the Aspire Center for Workforce Innovation in Austin, a community hub repurposed from a closed elementary school. The $40 million center aims to provide job training and legal services, revitalizing the area after the school closure in 2013. Local leaders emphasized the center's significance as a symbol of community resilience and progress.
Little Angels Learning Center in Englewood opened a new $5.7 million facility aimed at providing enhanced early education services to local children. Executive director Nashone Greer-Adams plans to welcome 140-150 children and hopes to transition programs into the new building within the next 18-24 months.
Thousands protested in downtown Chicago against Trump during the "No Kings" rally. In related news, former Illinois House Speaker Michael Madigan received a 7.5-year prison sentence and a $2.5 million fine. The week also featured a floating parade planned for the Chicago River, highlighting the city's vibrant arts scene.
Sister Rosemary Connelly, a prominent nun and leader of Misericordia Heart of Mercy in Chicago, passed away at 94. Known for her dedication to improving the lives of people with intellectual and developmental disabilities, she transformed the facility into a leading care home over her 50 years of stewardship. Her legacy includes advocating for community and independence for thousands of residents.
Chicago hosts diverse events this weekend, including Pride Fest, Witch-O-Rama, and Vegandale. The lineup features special Pride shows at the Neo-Futurist Theater and the Bronzeville Vendor Fair. These activities aim to celebrate community and culture.
Weiss Memorial Hospital in Uptown ceased patient admissions and transferred its 45 patients due to a catastrophic air conditioning failure, which could take weeks to repair. The hospital, primarily serving vulnerable geriatric patients, redirected emergency room patients to West Suburban Hospital as temperatures soared to 90 degrees indoors.
Chicago anticipates a severe heat wave this weekend, with temperatures exceeding 95 degrees. The National Weather Service warns of thunderstorms and potential flooding leading up to the heat, making conditions dangerously hot due to high humidity levels. Residents are advised to stay cool and utilize public libraries and community centers as cooling stations.
Andrew Sobotka, a finalist for the NHL’s Willie O’Ree Community Hero Award, has helped grow the Chicago Gay Hockey Association from 20 to nearly 100 players since 2009. Although he did not win the top prize, he donated his $5,000 award to the association, emphasizing its role as his chosen family. The organization promotes inclusivity in hockey and partners with local nonprofits to support youth sports.
Sidetrack, Chicago's largest gay bar, seeks approval to open a location in O'Hare Airport, potentially becoming the first gay bar in a U.S. airport. The proposal, led by Germán González of Somos Hospitality Group, aims to enhance airport concessions while showcasing the city's LGBTQ+ community. The decision on the proposal is expected in the coming months.
Chicago City Council approved a contentious youth curfew ordinance allowing police to impose curfews anywhere for minors, sparking debate over civil rights. Mayor Brandon Johnson plans to veto the measure, citing concerns about over-policing and its impact on communities of color. The ordinance would allow curfews with a 30-minute notice, aimed at addressing violent teen gatherings.