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A Polar Vortex Has Gripped Chicago — But It Could Feel 60 Degrees Warmer In A Week
https://blockclubchicago.org/2025/02/17/a-polar-vortex-has-gripped-chicago-but-it-could-feel-60-degrees-warmer-in-a-week/
Published: February 17, 2025 18:32
From wind chills near 20 degrees below zero on Tuesday morning to temperatures in the mid-40s next week, Chicago is in for a rollercoaster forecast.
Lizzano Focacceria And Spritzeria Brings Taste Of Italy To River North
https://blockclubchicago.org/2025/02/17/lizzano-focacceria-and-spritzeria-brings-taste-of-italy-to-river-north/
Published: February 17, 2025 14:15
The new fast-casual Italian restaurant from Deep Purpl owner Gabriel Fleury offers sandwiches, Italian meat-and-cheese boards and spritzes.
WTTW’s ‘Firsthand: Peacekeepers’ Series Highlights Humboldt Park Man’s Quest To Help Local Youth
https://blockclubchicago.org/2025/02/17/wttws-firsthand-peacekeepers-series-highlights-humboldt-park-mans-quest-to-help-local-youth/
Published: February 17, 2025 14:00
Adrian Rodriguez, violence prevention leader at the Puerto Rican Cultural Center and co-owner of the Battle Bandera Boxing Club, is featured in the series premiering Monday.
Here’s Where To Eat For The Last Days Of Chicago Black Restaurant Week
https://blockclubchicago.org/2025/02/17/heres-where-to-eat-for-the-last-days-of-chicago-black-restaurant-week/
Published: February 17, 2025 13:55
New restaurants join old favorites for the annual event, which runs through Feb. 23.
The Old Plank Tex-Mex Spot Closes After Almost 6 Years In Logan Square
https://blockclubchicago.org/2025/02/17/the-old-plank-tex-mex-spot-closes-after-almost-6-years-in-logan-square/
Published: February 17, 2025 13:53
An Instagram post announced the sudden closure of the bar-restaurant on Saturday.
Northwest Siders Can Find Peace and Mindfulness At Jefferson Park’s Newest Candle Shop
https://blockclubchicago.org/2025/02/17/northwest-siders-can-find-peace-and-mindfulness-at-jefferson-parks-newest-candle-shop/
Published: February 17, 2025 13:33
Sentient Self Co. carries candles, diffusers, crystals, perfumes and more. “I want to open up our space to create a sense of peace and calm for people," said owner Jazmine Johnson.
With Dangerous Cold Moving In, Many Warming Centers To Close Monday For President’s Day
https://blockclubchicago.org/2025/02/16/with-dangerous-cold-moving-in-many-warming-centers-to-close-monday-for-presidents-day/
Published: February 17, 2025 01:15
Most city buildings that act as warming centers will be closed Monday, when it could feel like negative 14 degrees. But there are still ways to find shelter.
Driver Crashes Into Lake Michigan Near Grant Park, Police Say
https://blockclubchicago.org/2025/02/16/driver-crashes-into-lake-michigan-near-grant-park-police-say/
Published: February 16, 2025 20:46
The driver veered off DuSable Lake Shore Drive before driving into Lake Michigan, authorities said. She managed to pull herself from the lake.
Logan Square’s New Affordable Apartment Complex Will Help Neighbors Facing Displacement, Officials Say
https://blockclubchicago.org/2025/02/16/logan-squares-new-affordable-apartment-complex-will-help-neighbors-facing-displacement-officials-say/
Published: February 16, 2025 19:50
The two-building, 89-unit Encuentro Square complex opened Saturday in a rapidly gentrifying area. "It's going to bring our community together for generations," a development official said.
Hundreds Protest Lurie Children’s Hospital’s Pause Of Gender-Affirming Surgeries
https://blockclubchicago.org/2025/02/16/hundreds-protest-lurie-childrens-hospitals-pause-of-gender-affirming-surgeries/
Published: February 16, 2025 15:22
Lurie Children's Hospital said it would pause performing gender-affirming surgeries for patients under 19 in response to an executive order from President Donald Trump.
1 Child Dead, 3 People Injured In West Ridge Fire
https://blockclubchicago.org/2025/02/14/1-child-dead-3-people-injured-in-west-ridge-fire/
Published: February 14, 2025 20:19
Those injured include a woman in serious condition and two firefighters who fell through collapsed stairs, a Fire Department official said.
Fresh Off Grammy Win, Matt B Returns Home To Headline DuSable Museum Anniversary Celebration
https://blockclubchicago.org/2025/02/14/grammy-award-winning-matt-b-reflects-on-black-identity-ahead-of-dusable-museum-performance/
Published: February 14, 2025 15:17
Ahead of his Sunday performance, Matt B talked with Block Club about how Black identity and his upbringing inspires his music. He won the Grammy for Best Global Music Album earlier this month.
Chicago Teacher’s New Book, ‘TÃos And Primos,’ Explores Life As A Kid In An Immigrant Household
https://blockclubchicago.org/2025/02/14/chicago-teachers-new-book-tios-and-primos-explores-life-as-a-kid-in-an-immigrant-household/
Published: February 14, 2025 14:33
Teacher Jacqueline Alcántara's book is inspired by her experience as a first-generation child growing up in a Spanish-speaking household. Families can attend a launch party Saturday in Pilsen.
This Week In Photos: Madigan Found Guilty, Lunar New Year And Much More
https://blockclubchicago.org/2025/02/14/this-week-in-photos-madigan-found-guilty-lunar-new-year-and-much-more/
Published: February 14, 2025 14:33
PHOTOS: Take a peek at life in the city through the eyes and lenses of the Block Club Chicago staff.
CPS CEO Pedro Martinez In The Running For Superintendent Job In Clark County, Nevada
https://blockclubchicago.org/2025/02/14/cps-ceo-pedro-martinez-in-the-running-for-superintendent-job-in-clark-county-nevada/
Published: February 14, 2025 14:25
The school board voted to fire Martinez without cause in December after growing hostility with Mayor Brandon Johnson. His contract allows him to stay on as CEO until June and he is currently suing the Chicago Board of Education.
Chicago Leads Nation In Inflation, Survey Shows, Leaving Residents Struggling To Afford Basics
https://blockclubchicago.org/2025/02/14/chicago-leads-nation-in-inflation-survey-shows-leaving-residents-struggling-to-afford-basics/
Published: February 14, 2025 14:10
From grocery shopping to dining out, consumers feel the squeeze as Chicago’s inflation rate surpasses the national average, ranking No. 1 in a new WalletHub report.
Want To Train Your Dog To Hunt Rats? This Ravenswood Workshop Teaches The Art Of Ratting
https://blockclubchicago.org/2025/02/14/want-to-train-your-dog-to-hunt-rats-this-ravenswood-workshop-teaches-the-art-of-ratting/
Published: February 14, 2025 13:51
Urban Pooch is adding its first ratting workshop to its training courses next month. Unlike ratting of yesteryear, rats will navigate PVC pipes and won't be harmed.
Benefit Concert For Palestinian Children Being Held At Irish American Heritage Center Saturday
https://blockclubchicago.org/2025/02/14/benefit-concert-for-palestinian-children-being-held-at-irish-american-heritage-center-saturday/
Published: February 14, 2025 13:43
Organized by Salon Kawakib and Chicago Irish for Palestine, the Saturday event will feature music, dance, poetry, a raffle, local vendors and more.
El Habanero Restaurant Closing After 11 Years In Logan Square
https://blockclubchicago.org/2025/02/14/el-habanero-restaurant-closing-after-11-years-in-logan-square/
Published: February 14, 2025 13:33
The Lara family said they're ready for a break, but hinted that El Habanero may come back in a different iteration. Its last day is Saturday.
3 Top City Leaders Step Down Days After Mayor Promised Staffing Shakeup
https://blockclubchicago.org/2025/02/13/3-top-city-leaders-step-down-days-after-mayor-promised-staffing-shakeup/
Published: February 13, 2025 22:50
OEMC director Jose Tirado, COPA chief Andrea Kersten and Aviation Commissioner Jamie Rhee all announced Thursday they were leaving their positions. "If you ain't with us, you just gotta go," Mayor Brandon Johnson said about city staff on Monday.
Snow Returns Friday Night, Followed By ‘Really, Really Cold’ Week Ahead
https://blockclubchicago.org/2025/02/13/snow-returns-friday-night-followed-by-really-really-cold-week-ahead/
Published: February 13, 2025 20:00
Chicago could get between 3-6 inches of snow before temperatures plunge. Warming centers will be open throughout the city.
Isadore Channels, 1920s Trailblazing Athlete, Was ‘Queen’ Of The Courts
https://blockclubchicago.org/2025/02/13/isadore-channels-1920s-trailblazing-athlete-was-queen-of-the-courts/
Published: February 13, 2025 15:05
The Chicago tennis champion and basketball star was considered one of the best Black female athletes of her time, but her story has been overlooked in history, author Robert Pruter writes.
New Garfield Park Wellness Center Unites West Side Hospitals And Community Health Clinics
https://blockclubchicago.org/2025/02/13/new-garfield-park-wellness-center-unites-west-side-hospitals-and-community-health-clinics/
Published: February 13, 2025 14:00
The Collaborative Bridges Wellness Center aims to serve 3,500 patients annually, providing support for mental health crises, addiction recovery, food insecurity and overall well-being.
16 Things To Do In Chicago This Weekend: Cupid’s Vintage Market, Concerts For Cuba And More
https://blockclubchicago.org/2025/02/13/16-things-to-do-in-chicago-this-weekend-cupids-vintage-market-concerts-for-cuba-and-more/
Published: February 13, 2025 14:00
There's also a Black and Indigenous storytelling event, a disco-rock party and numerous neighborhood markets.
You Can Help Plan For The Future Of South Shore’s Soon-To-Close Walgreens Location
https://blockclubchicago.org/2025/02/13/you-can-help-plan-for-the-future-of-south-shores-soon-to-close-walgreens-location/
Published: February 13, 2025 13:44
Local leaders will host a public meeting next week on the closure — the drugstore chain's second to shutter in recent months.
Logan Square Sexual Assault Victims Speak Out As Attacker Remains At Large: ‘Nobody’s Gonna Save You’
https://blockclubchicago.org/2025/02/13/logan-square-sexual-assault-victims-speak-out-as-attacker-remains-at-large-nobodys-gonna-save-you/
Published: February 13, 2025 13:43
Women want more people to know about the attacks and are banding together to pressure law enforcement to find the man responsible. Police said the investigation is still underway.
Man Charged With Involuntary Manslaughter In Shooting That Killed Pregnant Portage Park Mom
https://blockclubchicago.org/2025/02/13/man-charged-with-involuntary-manslaughter-in-shooting-that-killed-pregnant-portage-park-mom/
Published: February 13, 2025 13:35
Robert Pasco III was detained during a Wednesday hearing. In what court documents have described as an accidental shooting, Pasco fatally shot his pregnant girlfriend with a "ghost gun" that he had been sleeping with under his pillow.
Proposed Apartment Complex At Ann Sather Building Downsized, Drops Affordable Housing Units
https://blockclubchicago.org/2025/02/13/proposed-apartment-complex-at-ann-sather-building-downsized-drops-affordable-housing-units/
Published: February 13, 2025 13:24
Mavrek CEO Adam Frieberg cited financing challenges and market conditions as the reason for the scaled-back design.
Heartland Alliance Health Clinics, Food Pantries Will Close This Month
https://blockclubchicago.org/2025/02/13/heartland-alliance-health-clinics-food-pantries-will-close-this-month/
Published: February 13, 2025 13:00
The nonprofit’s leadership initially told staff the closure would be a “gradual" process ending in April, but that timeline has been moved up.
Community Groups Fund Snow Removal Near Logan Square Monument, Blue Line
https://blockclubchicago.org/2025/02/13/community-groups-fund-snow-removal-near-logan-square-monument-blue-line/
Published: February 13, 2025 13:00
This year’s sponsors are Logan Square Preservation, Liberty Bank, Reno, Play, Federales, Lula Cafe and R.P. Fox & Associates, which owns a few buildings in the neighborhood.
Flu Cases Surge In Chicago As Vaccination Rates Hit 4-Year Low
https://blockclubchicago.org/2025/02/12/flu-cases-surge-in-chicago-as-vaccination-rates-hit-4-year-low/
Published: February 12, 2025 21:55
Health officials are encouraging people to get vaccinated as emergency department visits for flu and positivity rates remain high.
City Pitches Idea For Public Market After Dropping Plans For City-Owned Grocery Store
https://blockclubchicago.org/2025/02/12/city-pitches-idea-for-public-market-after-dropping-plans-for-city-owned-grocery-store/
Published: February 12, 2025 20:35
Mayor Brandon Johnson's administration wants to establish a public market in Chicago that would include individual food vendors selling produce and other items.
Mayor’s Office Releases ‘Gift Room’ Log, Video Following Inspector General Investigation
https://blockclubchicago.org/2025/02/12/mayors-office-releases-gift-room-log-video-following-inspector-general-investigation/
Published: February 12, 2025 20:33
Mayor Brandon Johnson's administration has updated its gift protocols following a report last month that found city inspectors were denied access to a so-called "gift room" at City Hall.
Luxury Bathhouse Coming To The West Loop
https://blockclubchicago.org/2025/02/12/luxury-bathhouse-coming-to-the-west-loop/
Published: February 12, 2025 20:29
Construction will begin soon on the Madison Street site, which will include pile driving and lane closures, and is expected to be completed in 12 months. Bathhouse plans to open in spring 2026.
Terror Vision Records And Joe Swanberg Opening Pop-Up Video Store In Lakeview
https://blockclubchicago.org/2025/02/12/terror-vision-records-and-joe-swanberg-opening-pop-up-video-store-in-lakeview/
Published: February 12, 2025 20:00
The owner of Graveface Records and Curiosities and the Chicago-based director are opening Terror Vision Records and Video, a pop-up shop and video rental store next door to the Music Box Theatre in April.
Michael Madigan Found Guilty In Landmark Political Corruption Case
https://blockclubchicago.org/2025/02/12/michael-madigan-found-guilty-in-landmark-political-corruption-case/
Published: February 12, 2025 17:32
The former Illinois House speaker was found guilty on 10 counts in a verdict announced Wednesday.
Lou Malnati’s Serving Up Heart-Shaped Pizzas To Support Local Food Banks
https://blockclubchicago.org/2025/02/12/lou-malnatis-serving-up-heart-shaped-pizzas-to-support-local-food-banks/
Published: February 12, 2025 15:22
Through February, the pizza chain will donate $1 from every Valentine's-themed heart-shaped pie sold to Feeding America food banks.
‘The Bear’ Looking For Babies, Chefs And Average Chicagoans To Be Extras In New Season
https://blockclubchicago.org/2025/02/12/the-bear-looking-for-babies-chefs-and-average-chicagoans-to-be-extras-in-new-season/
Published: February 12, 2025 15:18
Want to be on set for "The Bear"? The Hulu/FX show is casting paid extras as Season 4 filming is set to begin this month.
Koval Rolls Out New Line Of Limited-Run Luxury Craft Spirits
https://blockclubchicago.org/2025/02/12/koval-rolls-out-new-line-of-limited-run-luxury-craft-spirits/
Published: February 12, 2025 15:02
Koval co-founder Sonat Birnecker Hart collaborated with her sister to design the unique bottles for Thresh & Winnow, a new line of limited-edition whiskeys and Japanese botanical-inspired gins.
After 3 Fires And Pit Bull Attack Near Tent Encampment, Kids Sports May Be Pulled From Gompers Park
https://blockclubchicago.org/2025/02/12/after-3-fires-and-pit-bull-attack-near-tent-encampment-kids-sports-could-be-pulled-from-gompers-park/
Published: February 12, 2025 14:42
Ald. Samantha Nugent has been asking the Mayor's Office to address the Gompers Park encampment for months. "I'm disappointed and frustrated. The goal post is continually moving," she said.
Palestinian American’s Debut Play ‘The Cave’ Offers Dark, Humorous Glimpse At Life As An Arab Family
https://blockclubchicago.org/2025/02/12/palestinian-americans-debut-play-the-cave-offers-dark-humorous-glimpse-at-life-as-an-arab-family/
Published: February 12, 2025 14:37
Global turmoil and cultural conflict get personal in Chicago playwright Sadieh Rifai's play at A Red Orchid Theatre, which runs through March 16.
Club Lucky’s Big Tipping Couple Strikes Again — This Time Leaving $3,000 On A $120 Tab
https://blockclubchicago.org/2025/02/12/club-luckys-big-tipping-couple-strikes-again-this-time-leaving-3000-on-a-120-tab/
Published: February 12, 2025 13:52
This is the fourth time the couple has left a huge tip at the Bucktown restaurant, management said.
Broadway Bikes, Formerly Uptown Bikes, Reopens Under New Ownership
https://blockclubchicago.org/2025/02/12/broadway-bikes-formerly-uptown-bikes-reopens-under-new-ownership/
Published: February 12, 2025 13:50
Mechanics Leah Plummer and Nina Hazelton worked at the bike shop for several years before transitioning to owners after the store's previous owner stepped back.
The Staley Wants To Be Your New Favorite Watering Hole In The South Loop
https://blockclubchicago.org/2025/02/12/the-staley-wants-to-be-your-new-favorite-watering-hole-in-the-south-loop/
Published: February 12, 2025 13:50
The family-friendly sports bar and restaurant from former Chicago Bear Israel Idonije is open for business.
Renowned Choreographer Randy Duncan Wants To Dance Again — But First, He Needs A New Kidney
https://blockclubchicago.org/2025/02/12/renowned-choreographer-randy-duncan-wants-to-dance-again-but-first-he-needs-a-new-kidney/
Published: February 12, 2025 13:49
Duncan, who has chronic kidney disease, has worked with dance companies in Chicago and around the world over his decades-long career, on top of teaching at West Town's Chicago Academy for the Arts.
Habláme De Ti Is Back With Culturally Relevant Events For Latinos Across Generations
https://blockclubchicago.org/2025/02/11/hablame-de-ti-is-back-with-culturally-relevant-events-for-latinos-across-generations/
Published: February 11, 2025 21:35
Founded by friends Noemi Roman and Valeria Ramirez, the platform organizes events for Latinx families so parents can see the city through their kids' eyes.
Logan Square Tenants Protest Luxury Upgrades, Rent Hikes Outside New Landlord’s Office
https://blockclubchicago.org/2025/02/11/logan-square-tenants-protest-luxury-upgrades-rent-hikes-outside-new-landlords-office/
Published: February 11, 2025 20:02
Tenants have been pushing for rent negotiations, no building renovations and lease renewals since January for their historic building, but the landlord previously told Block Club that's not financially possible.
Pilot Project Brewing Expanding To North Side With New Location Near Wrigley Field
https://blockclubchicago.org/2025/02/11/pilot-project-brewing-expanding-to-north-side-with-new-location-near-wrigley-field/
Published: February 11, 2025 19:20
The Wrigleyville location is set to open in April or May, with a beer-focused main floor, cocktail lounge and large outdoor patio, as well as a rooftop deck opening later this summer.
Heartland Alliance Health Shutting Down Clinics And Food Pantries, Affecting Thousands In Need
https://blockclubchicago.org/2025/02/11/heartland-alliance-health-shutting-down-clinics-and-food-pantries-affecting-thousands-in-need/
Published: February 11, 2025 15:22
The community health care nonprofit is shuttering and will close its Uptown and Englewood clinics and three food pantries by April. The closure comes less than a year after the group broke off from parent organization Heartland Alliance.
in session, New Lounge Focused On ‘The Love Of Music,’ Takes Over West Loop’s Tribe Supper Club
https://blockclubchicago.org/2025/02/11/in-session-new-lounge-focused-on-the-love-of-music-takes-over-west-loops-tribe-supper-club/
Published: February 11, 2025 15:00
Described as a "soundbite lounge," in session is making music the priority and the food menu secondary — the opposite of Tribe Supper Club.
Chicago To See ‘Biggest Snow System’ So Far This Winter, With 3-6 Inches Expected Wednesday
https://blockclubchicago.org/2025/02/11/chicago-to-see-biggest-snow-system-so-far-this-winter-with-3-6-inches-expected-wednesday/
Published: February 11, 2025 14:59
The snow will fall throughout the day Wednesday with the heaviest accumulation arriving in the afternoon.
When A Trip To The Doctor Could Lead To Deportation
https://blockclubchicago.org/2025/02/11/when-a-trip-to-the-doctor-could-lead-to-deportation/
Published: February 11, 2025 14:45
Undocumented immigrants are coping with threats and turmoil amid Trump's vowed crackdown. "We used to leave our doors unlocked for family or let our oldest daughter walk home from school. Not now," one parent said.
Uviña Skin Boutique Brings Holistic Beauty And Wellness To Lakeview
https://blockclubchicago.org/2025/02/11/uvina-skin-boutique-brings-holistic-beauty-and-wellness-to-lakeview/
Published: February 11, 2025 14:22
Owner Jelitsa Legarreta, a nurse of more than 15 years, offers skin consultations, botanical skincare and lymphatic massages by appointment only.
Chicago Creating Monument Honoring COVID-19 Victims, Frontline Workers
https://blockclubchicago.org/2025/02/11/chicago-creating-monument-honoring-covid-19-victims-frontline-workers/
Published: February 11, 2025 14:21
A 25-foot stainless steel monument will anchor a new park in the Illinois Medical District as a tribute to those who served and died during the pandemic.
Facets Movie House Turns 50 With A New Name And An Expanded Mission
https://blockclubchicago.org/2025/02/11/facets-movie-house-turns-50-with-a-new-name-and-an-expanded-mission/
Published: February 11, 2025 14:19
For its milestone anniversary, the cinematheque is getting a branding facelift and a host of new initiatives intended to keep it going for another half-century, including some special film series.
Southwest Side Neighbors Can Choose How To Spend $1.5 Million In The 12th Ward
https://blockclubchicago.org/2025/02/11/southwest-side-neighbors-can-choose-how-to-spend-1-5-million-in-the-12th-ward/
Published: February 11, 2025 14:19
McKinley Park and Brighton Park neighbors can rank their preferred neighborhood projects in an online survey available in English, Spanish and Mandarin. The survey closes March 5.
Cabrini-Green Lot Vacant For 50 Years Closer To Being Redeveloped With Mixed-Income Apartments
https://blockclubchicago.org/2025/02/11/cabrini-green-lot-vacant-for-50-years-closer-to-being-redeveloped-with-mixed-income-apartments/
Published: February 11, 2025 14:14
The 78-unit, mixed-income building will have 54 affordable apartments. The finance committee approved $14 million in TIF funds for the project Monday.