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A judge ordered the release of Ray Collins, an armed protester accused of assaulting a federal officer during a protest outside the ICE processing center in Broadview. Despite initially being detained for carrying a legally permitted firearm, his defense argued the weapon was not involved in the demonstration. Collins will be subject to electronic monitoring and a curfew following his release.
Layne Fargo's novel "The Favorites," inspired by ice dancing and the classic "Wuthering Heights," has become a bestselling beach read this summer. The book follows ambitious ice dancer Katarina and her partner Heath as they navigate competition and obsession on the road to Olympic glory. Fargo, a devoted Olympics fan, drew on her passion for the sport despite not being an ice dancer herself.
Developers plan to open Cafe Valera at the Humboldt Park Boathouse, aiming to enhance foot traffic and visibility. The cafe, proposed by the North Pond team, will feature grab-and-go food items and a beer garden, while emphasizing sustainability and local ingredients. Community support is evident, although concerns about potential trash increase were raised.
City officials halted the demolition of Damen Silos due to excessive dust reported by inspectors. Ald. Julia Ramirez announced that a stop-work order was issued until a revised demolition plan is approved to address dust issues. The health department will meet with the contractor to discuss dust mitigation efforts.
Kevin Sofen launched Scoop the Poop in Wicker Park to combat the issue of dog waste in the community. His initiative has installed 28 dispensers and 50 signs to encourage residents to pick up after their pets, inspired by a viral social media post after he personally cleaned his street. Sofen aims to improve neighborhood cleanliness and public health while fostering community involvement.
The Trump administration announced a pause on $2.1 billion in federal funding for Chicago's Red Line Extension project due to concerns over race-based contracting. The funding hold comes amid a broader federal government shutdown and follows recent cuts to other infrastructure projects in Chicago and New York. Mayor Brandon Johnson criticized the decision, emphasizing its negative impact on local communities.
Federal agents, accompanied by Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem and right-wing influencer Benny Johnson, conducted a raid at an Austin Walmart, leading to chaos as shoppers were confronted. In a separate incident, Ald. Jessie Fuentes was handcuffed while questioning agents about a detainee's rights, highlighting escalating ICE activity in Chicago. Protesters faced aggressive tactics, including tear gas, during demonstrations against the Trump administration's immigration operations.
A family in Logan Square fled after a masked federal agent threw a smoke grenade onto a crowded street. Witnesses reported that ICE agents had been targeting the local Mexican grocery store, prompting a chaotic scene with people honking and blowing whistles to warn others. The couple expressed concern for their community, fearing the incident was intended to instill fear among residents.
Kith, a New York City lifestyle brand, opens its flagship store in Chicago on October 3, 2025, featuring apparel and a unique ice cream bar. The grand opening will include a special sneaker collaboration with ASICS, celebrating the heritage of past World’s Fair host cities. Community initiative Scoop the Poop aims to address dog waste issues in Wicker Park, installing dispensers and raising awareness.
Sakana Sushi has opened on Wabash Avenue, succeeding M Lounge and Roots Handmade Pizza, which are closing. M Lounge, a staple for 20 years, is transitioning ownership, while Roots is ending its five-year run in Printers Row.