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City officials seek a $25.25 million federal loan to revive the Congress Theater in Logan Square, a project long stalled by funding issues. If approved, construction could begin in spring 2026, with an estimated completion by mid-2027. The project aims to revitalize the area and provide affordable housing.
Chicago welcomes November with a variety of outdoor events celebrating the changing season, including nature walks and community activities. Highlights include a bird migration event on November 1 and the festive return of Christkindlmarket. These events provide opportunities for residents to enjoy the outdoors while engaging in local traditions.
Pilsen's annual Carrera de los Muertos will feature a record 8,000 runners this Saturday. The 18th edition of the Race of the Dead highlights the community's vibrant culture while promoting fitness and unity.
Aldi plans to open a new store in the Roosevelt Collection Shops in the South Loop, with construction set to begin soon. The discount grocer aims to join 18 other retailers in the shopping center and expects to open next year. Aldi operates 33 locations throughout Chicago and is also expanding into River North.
Federal immigration agents detained at least three individuals, including two U.S. citizens, in Albany Park on Friday morning. Eyewitnesses reported a chaotic scene as agents handcuffed one man while neighbors protested and questioned the actions of law enforcement. Assistant Homeland Security Secretary Tricia McLaughlin confirmed the arrest of five undocumented individuals during the operation.
Lake View High School's boys cross country team faces challenges from federal immigration enforcement while preparing for the state championship. Despite the fear surrounding their community due to Operation Midway Blitz, the team has demonstrated resilience and unity, finishing fourth at regionals. They plan to showcase their pride with matching bandanas featuring the Mexican flag during upcoming races.
A federal lawsuit accuses the ICE facility in Broadview, Illinois, of subjecting detained individuals to inhumane conditions, including denial of basic necessities and legal access. The suit claims that the federal government obstructs oversight by preventing access to the facility for elected officials and media. Attorneys describe the situation as a severe violation of human rights and constitutional protections.
Organizers are calling for a boycott of Home Depot after federal immigration agents targeted day laborers outside its stores in Chicago. Rallies and vigils are scheduled nationwide to demand that the company protect these workers from ICE and Border Patrol actions. Advocates claim Home Depot fails to take adequate measures to deter federal agents from detaining laborers seeking work.
Chicagoans are set to celebrate Halloween and Día de los Muertos while facing ongoing operations by federal immigration agents in the city. Block Club reporters captured the vibrant neighborhood activities amidst these challenges. The latest podcast discusses these issues in detail.
Tonika Lewis Johnson, a social justice artist from Englewood, was named a 2025 MacArthur Foundation Fellow, receiving an $800,000 “genius grant.” Johnson's work focuses on systemic inequities in Black and Brown communities, and she will be celebrated at an event on November 7 at Kennedy-King College.