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Gale Street Inn in Jefferson Park closed after 62 years, citing difficulties in hiring and retaining staff. Owner George Karzas announced the closure via social media, expressing gratitude for customer support during challenging times. The restaurant, known for its barbecued ribs, faced significant financial losses during the pandemic.
Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson vetoed a youth curfew ordinance allowing police to impose “snap curfews” after a narrow City Council vote. Johnson emphasized the need for community safety investments and criticized the ordinance as potentially unconstitutional and harmful to civil rights. Alderman Brian Hopkins must now rally support to override the veto.
Chicago faces a dangerous heat wave this weekend, with temperatures feeling as high as 105 degrees. The National Weather Service issued an extreme heat warning from Saturday morning until Monday midnight, advising residents to stay hydrated and avoid outdoor activities. Relief is expected early next week with cooler temperatures and potential thunderstorms.
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 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.
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.
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.
Ald. Bill Conway introduced a resolution urging the CTA to enhance enforcement of its no-smoking policy on public transit. Complaints about smoking on trains and buses surged post-pandemic, prompting Conway to call for increased collaboration with local police and transparency regarding enforcement efforts.
Chicago's South Side features a growing number of LGBTQ+-friendly spaces, challenging the notion that such communities are limited to the North Side. Organizations like Brave Space Alliance and Affinity Community Services provide essential services and social events for local residents. This Pride Month, a guide highlights these inclusive spots to celebrate diversity across the city.
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.