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Lollapalooza's 2025 festival generated a record $480 million in economic activity for Chicago, exceeding the previous year's total by $40 million. The festival attracted over 460,000 attendees, with 56% traveling from outside the city, benefiting local hotels, restaurants, and transportation.
Corn Productions, which operates The Cornservatory Theater in North Center, seeks to raise $10,000 by November 1 to avoid closure after 25 years of operation. The nonprofit faces financial struggles due to a decline in ticket sales and the inability to secure grants, prompting a fundraiser that has already garnered nearly $8,300.
Chicago-area companies have received millions in federal contracts linked to Operation Midway Blitz, which focuses on immigration enforcement. Notably, Reliance Relocation Services and United Tactical Systems have benefited significantly, with contracts totaling over $8 million for relocating ICE agents and supplying tactical equipment. Local leaders have criticized these operations and called for boycotts against companies profiting from them.
Chicago Alderperson Maria Fuentes demands $100,000 in damages after an ICE agent handcuffed her, resulting in injuries to her wrists and shoulders. Fuentes claims the incident caused her "extreme mental distress, anguish and fear." She filed the claim on Tuesday, highlighting the physical and emotional toll of the encounter.
Developers propose a 29-story apartment building with 397 units and 16,000 square feet of retail space at 1200 W. Carroll Ave. in Fulton Market. If approved, construction could begin early next year, with plans for 20% of the units to be affordable.
ICE agents detained Ruben Torres, the father of terminally ill 16-year-old Ofelia Torres, shortly after his daughter returned home from chemotherapy. Torres’ attorney argues that his detention violates constitutional rights, as he has no criminal record and is a long-term resident of the U.S. A bond hearing is scheduled for Thursday.
Chicago Public Schools (CPS) announced new dual language and world language programs at several schools to enhance language education for students. The expansion, part of a contract with the Chicago Teachers Union, aims to provide more language options in response to the needs of a diverse student population. CPS currently operates 43 dual language programs and approximately 240 world language programs citywide.
Block Club Chicago launched a WhatsApp channel to deliver daily updates on immigration news, including ICE alerts, directly to residents' phones. This initiative aims to simplify complex immigration news during the ongoing Midway Blitz operation, particularly for the Hispanic community, which heavily uses WhatsApp.
Chicagoans celebrate Día de los Muertos with various events throughout the city from October 24 to November 2. Activities include community altars, a motorcycle run, markets, and cultural performances honoring deceased loved ones. The festivities aim to foster community engagement and cultural appreciation.
Jesse Íñiguez opened Back of the Yards Coffeehouse in March 2025 to create a community hub amid rising fears over federal immigration enforcement in Chicago. The cafe, which sold out on its first day, aims to support local residents through partnerships and community events. Íñiguez emphasizes the importance of representation in the neighborhood where he grew up.