Your trusted source for local Chicago, IL news, updated daily with the most important stories from your community.
Chicago's City Council meeting this week was notably lengthy, reflecting significant local issues. Block Club reporters highlighted various neighborhood happenings, including Walter Burnett's farewell and traffic concerns on the Kennedy Expressway.
Chicago's all-girls baseball team, Perfect Catch, prepares for the 2025 Baseball For All Nationals after a successful start as the Humboldt Park Gators. The team, supporting nearly 50 girls aged 11-18, aims to break barriers in a sport traditionally seen as male-dominated. Star player Amira Hondras recently earned a college scholarship and made history by participating in a prestigious all-star game.
Demolition of the Damen Silos in McKinley Park began Monday, advancing ahead of schedule. Neighbors and preservation advocates have expressed concerns about pollution risks associated with the demolition, which follows a contentious sale of the land to MAT Limited for $6.5 million.
Atelier, a Michelin-starred restaurant in Lincoln Square, will close its current location on Saturday to move to a new, undisclosed site in the neighborhood. The restaurant raised $485,340 through a fundraising campaign to facilitate the move and ensure increased visibility. Owner Tim Lacey noted a surge in diners as the final service approaches.
Smoque BBQ has filed a trademark opposition against Weber-Stephen Products LLC over its new Weber Smoque smoker, which could confuse customers. Smoque BBQ, a popular restaurant in Chicago, has held the "Smoque" trademark for over a decade and fears that Weber's use of the name will dilute its brand. The dispute has escalated, with Weber's legal team arguing that the two brands operate in different markets.
Chicago will experience a brief cooldown with temperatures reaching 74 degrees Thursday and 80 degrees Friday, but humidity will return over the weekend. Meteorologist Bill Snyder reports that this summer has already recorded 18 days above 90 degrees, surpassing the average for a typical summer. The warm weather is attributed to a shift in the Bermuda-Azores High pressure system and increased humidity from corn evapotranspiration.
Chicago resident Justin Swinson hosts “The Not That Late Show,” a local late-night talk show that highlights Chicago culture and news. The show features local guests and segments that range from serious issues to comedic bits, aiming to provide a platform for the city's diverse voices. Swinson hopes to expand the show to various neighborhoods, emphasizing Chicago's unique character.
Chicago’s longest-serving alderman, Walter Burnett Jr., received emotional tributes during his final City Council meeting after 30 years in office. Burnett, who is resigning to focus on family, is a finalist for the CEO position at the Chicago Housing Authority. His departure will leave a significant impact on the council, where he was known for his ability to unite members across the political spectrum.
Chicago singles gathered for a speed-dating event themed around the viral "Man In Finance" song, attracting over 100 participants despite the lack of tall, wealthy men. Organizers aimed to foster in-person connections amid frustrations with online dating platforms. Attendees engaged in activities like speed-dating bingo to break the ice and spark conversations.
Ald. Stephanie Coleman proposed a law requiring all boaters to wear life vests following the drowning of stylist Zahrie Walls. The ordinance aims to enhance safety on all vessels, imposing fines of up to $500 for violations. Coleman emphasized the need for protective measures to prevent future tragedies.