Chicago Loves Local: Supporting Our Small Businesses Next weekend marks Small Business Saturday, and Chicago is rallying its residents with the first-ever “Chicago Loves Local” campaign. This new initiative is a call to action for everyone to patronize the diverse small businesses across all 77 of the city’s unique community areas. By shopping local, we directly support jobs, strengthen our city’s economy, and help preserve the unique character of our beloved neighborhoods. Why Local Businesses … Read More

Downtown Shootings: A Tragic Friday and Ongoing Investigation Chicago is reeling from a pair of downtown shootings that marred the start of the holiday season, leaving a 14-year-old boy dead and eight other teens wounded. The incident, linked to another “teen takeover” event advertised on social media, highlights a persistent challenge for city leaders and law enforcement. Tragic Events Unfold in the Loop On Friday night, November 21, 2025, downtown Chicago became the scene of … Read More

Future of Chicago’s Video Data Bank Uncertain Amid SAIC Layoffs The School of the Art Institute of Chicago (SAIC) recently announced significant staff layoffs, a move that has cast a shadow over the future of the pioneering Video Data Bank (VDB). These sweeping cuts, impacting key personnel at one of the world’s most vital video art archives, have sparked considerable concern within the local and global art community. SAIC Faces Financial Headwinds and Staff Reductions … Read More

Avondale Crowned America’s Coolest Neighborhood for 2025 Avondale, affectionately known as “Bricktown,” has officially seized the title of America’s Coolest Neighborhood for 2025, landing an impressive fifth spot on TimeOut’s global ranking. This recognition isn’t just about fleeting trends; TimeOut rigorously evaluates neighborhoods based on their cultural offerings, thriving independent businesses, dynamic nightlife, diverse dining, and overall affordability, factors where Avondale clearly excels. For Chicago locals, this shines a spotlight on a community that has … Read More

Aaron Rodgers’s Audacious Return to Chicago Chicago, brace yourselves. Aaron Rodgers, the quarterback who has been the bane of Bears fans for nearly two decades, is back in the Windy City for the Steelers-Bears matchup. While he won’t be suiting up for the Steelers against your beloved Bears today due to a left wrist injury, Rodgers wasted no time reminding everyone of his infamous presence at Soldier Field, setting a distinctive tone hours before kickoff. … Read More

Chicago Seniors Set for Bigger Property Tax Breaks in 2026 Good news for thousands of older homeowners in Chicago and Cook County! Starting in tax year 2026, a significant shakeup in state law will provide fatter property tax breaks, easing the financial burden on eligible seniors. These proactive changes, including expanded eligibility and higher income limits, are designed to offer noticeable relief to our valued older residents. Expanded Tax Relief for Chicago & Cook County … Read More

Chicago Loop Shootings Mar Holiday Festivities A recent wave of violence in downtown Chicago’s Loop left one teen dead and eight others injured, casting a shadow over the start of the holiday season. These tragic incidents occurred amidst large crowds gathered for annual celebrations, raising significant safety concerns among residents and city officials. Holiday Season Interrupted by Violence The shootings unfolded on Friday night, November 21, 2025, during a particularly busy period in downtown Chicago. … Read More