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Three businesses, including Furious Spoon, Pink Squirrel, and Deadbolt, closed in Logan Square, with plans for new concepts from restaurateur Esam Hani. Hani confirmed he is taking over the storefronts and submitted business license applications for a restaurant and a new bar in the locations. The closures follow community concerns over safety issues linked to Deadbolt.
HV Entertainment will open a new LGBTQ+ bar, Chicago Eagle, in the former location of the Baton Show Lounge, which has operated since 1969. The Baton Show Lounge will continue to host drag shows in a dedicated room within Chicago Eagle, ensuring its legacy remains. Richard Ramey, a key figure in the transition, emphasizes the importance of safe spaces for the LGBTQ+ community.
Comedian Cameron Esposito returns to Chicago next month for their Steppenwolf debut with “FEAT,” a solo show reflecting on their near-death experience and parenting. Esposito, who co-founded a notable open mic in Chicago, emphasizes the city's impact on their comedic development. The performance aims to engage a diverse audience by exploring themes of childhood and parental relationships.
Federal immigration agents fatally shot Silverio Villegas González in Franklin Park after he allegedly drove his car at them. Body camera footage reveals an ICE agent downplayed his injuries, stating they were “nothing major.” The incident has sparked calls for an independent investigation from local officials.
Chicago's City Council is poised to approve a proposal allowing additional dwelling units (ADUs) like coach houses and basement apartments citywide, with new restrictions. The ordinance, a compromise between Ald. Bennett Lawson and Ald. Marty Quinn, aims to boost affordable housing while addressing concerns over neighborhood character. A final vote is scheduled for Thursday.
Animal activists urge Chicago to enhance support for its only municipal shelter, Chicago Animal Care and Control, facing a surge in unwanted animals. In July, the shelter took in nearly 1,842 animals, up from 34 per day in previous years, leading to difficult decisions regarding euthanasia due to overcrowding. Advocates call for public meetings to address the shelter's challenges and push for improved resources.
State lawmakers blocked $4 million in grant aid to Weiss Hospital after its owner, Manoj Prasad, failed to communicate with them regarding an appeal to the Center for Medicare & Medicaid Services. Community leaders expressed frustration over the hospital's closure and the impact on local residents and healthcare services. They accused Prasad of mismanagement and neglect while he defended his ownership as a necessary measure to prevent the hospital's permanent closure.
Chicago expects a rainy week with possible thunderstorms, but conditions are set to improve by the weekend. Unseasonably warm weather will return, offering residents a reprieve from the wet forecast.
A Chicago City Council committee approved plans for a 22,000-seat soccer stadium for the Chicago Fire at The 78 development site. The $650 million project, expected to open in 2028, will include a dedicated bus route and some parking options for fans. The full City Council will vote on the project Thursday.
Preservationists are working to save Roger Brown’s former home and studio in Lincoln Park from potential demolition after the School of the Art Institute of Chicago listed the property for sale. The 19th-century building, significant to Chicago's art history, housed Brown's creative work for over 20 years. Preservation groups are urging the city to designate the property as a landmark to prevent its destruction.