Your trusted source for local Chicago, IL news, updated daily with the most important stories from your community.
City Council approved the Puerto Rican Arts Alliance's plan to expand its facilities in Avondale. The $3 million project will create a community center and offices to support educational programs amid rising rents and gentrification. The arts alliance aims to enhance cultural offerings and serve as a community anchor.
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.
Illuminated Brew Works in Norwood Park celebrates Pride Month with its popular hazy IPA, Gay Agenda, which has expanded its distribution to over 70 stores since its inception. The brewery donates 10% of profits from this beer to the Broadway Youth Center, supporting LGBTQ+ youth experiencing homelessness. This year, Illuminated is brewing one of its largest batches, with a festive release party planned.
Brighton Park will see safety upgrades along Archer and Kedzie avenues, including protected bike lanes and pedestrian enhancements, as part of the Complete Streets initiative. City officials aim to reduce traffic fatalities in an area experiencing 43% more traffic deaths than other Chicago neighborhoods. Construction is set to begin this summer.
Open Books launched a mobile bookstore to deliver free literature to underserved neighborhoods on Chicago's South and West sides. The initiative aims to improve access to reading materials, addressing the significant literacy gap faced by local students. CEO Jennifer Steele emphasized that “books should not feel like a luxury.”
Four Red Line stations in Chicago—Bryn Mawr, Berwyn, Argyle, and Lawrence—will reopen on July 20 after over four years of renovations. The $2.1 billion Red and Purple Modernization Project aims to modernize the aging rail infrastructure, enhancing accessibility and comfort for commuters.
West Fest Chicago will return for its 21st edition from July 18-20, featuring local and global musical acts across two stages. Highlights include headliners Les Savy Fav and Derrick Carter, along with a range of family-friendly activities and local vendors. Proceeds will benefit community organizations, including Talcott Fine Arts and Museum Academy.
Chicago-based psych/blues rock band Daisychain will release their debut album, “All in a Name,” on June 27. They will celebrate with a hometown show at Sleeping Village on June 30, featuring local bands La Rosa Noir and SUNVOLUME. The album reflects the band's creative journey, shaped by their collaboration with acclaimed producer Sylvia Massy.
Alderman James Gardiner of Jefferson Park has been cleared of a $20,000 fine for alleged ethics violations after a hearing officer found insufficient evidence against him. The Board of Ethics unanimously supported the ruling, which Gardiner claimed was a relief after a four-year investigation into his actions towards a political critic.