Community stories in Chicago

A 6-year-old boy died while riding a youth ATV youth all-terrain vehicle, prompting a safety recall, according to safety watchdogs.

A shark sighting off Huntington Beach in California has prompted officials to shut down ocean waters near the pier and pause a major surf competition, according to event organizers.

With spring tulip festivals drawing massive crowds, a viral video has sparked a warning for pet owners. Jemma Ladwitch told the BBC her 3-year-old dog died just hours after visiting a tulip festival last week in Yorkshire, and she has chosen to use her beloved pet’s death to raise awarenes

Got this email forwarded from a former Roycemore parent today: To the Roycemore Community: My name is Anthony Chambers, and I am a current parent as well as the Chair of the Board of Trustees. Like everyone receiving this message, the Roycemore Board of Trustees has deep devotion and love for th

[Link: https://fourthandprint.substack.com/p/tonight-the-lights-go-out?r=5z0haa]

Developed in a public-private partnership, the sites seek to share work, training and volunteer opportunities for SNAP recipients.

[Link: https://chicagoyimby.com/2026/04/revised-plans-revealed-for-900-clark-street-in-evanston.html] The new tower has a lot going for it. Including much needed “affordable” units and smaller apartments. However, I absolutely hate the idea of demolishing half of the AMC Theater! As the only thea

As part of the 'Illinois America 250' initiative, a tour highlights significant historical sites in the Chicago area, including the First Division Museum at Cantigny and the Gichigamiin Indigenous Nations Museum. These locations showcase America's military history and the rich heritage of Native tribes around the Great Lakes.

This week in Chicago, first responders participated in the Battle of the Badges charity boxing event, while the CTA announced a major refresh of 28 'L' stations. Additionally, a new housing shelter project was celebrated at the former Aloha Motel site.

A 59-year-old woman in Illinois feels trapped supporting her boyfriend, who has lost jobs due to substance abuse and financial issues. Despite their partnership, she bears the brunt of household expenses while he struggles with his past and current challenges.

Chicago is buzzing with events this weekend, including the return of Vintage on the Avenue, Six Flags Great America's 50th season reopening, and the final extension of the Spider-Man exhibition at the Museum of Science and Industry. These events highlight the city's vibrant culture and entertainment options.

The Griffin Museum of Science and Industry is hosting Thrift Lab, an after-hours event focused on sustainable fashion. The event will take place on April 30, starting at 6:30 p.m.

A Downers Grove mother is advocating for her son, a college student whose bank account was frozen for nearly a year, preventing access to over $4,000 needed for his hockey team. Chase Bank has since released the funds after inquiries from the I-Team, highlighting issues with fraud flagging.

Vivalette, a Mexican wolf at Brookfield Zoo, has become a source of inspiration for children with limb differences. Hundreds have visited the zoo to connect with Vivalette and find representation in her story.

In response to recent flooding, local residents in Fox Lake have come together to fill and deliver sandbags to those affected. This grassroots effort highlights the strength of community support during challenging times.

The family of Jack T. Smerecky is suing a Woodstock movie theater after he fell and died in a dark auditorium post-show. They claim the theater's negligence in conducting proper checks contributed to the tragedy.

Residents of Galewood expressed strong opposition to a proposed redevelopment plan for the former Mars Wrigley factory site, which includes nearly 500 housing units. Community members fear that the influx of new residents will alter the character of their neighborhood and lead to increased congestion.

Six Flags is reintroducing its Pre-K Pass for 2026, allowing children aged 3-5 to enjoy unlimited visits to participating parks, including Great America. This offer is available for a limited time and aims to attract families to the amusement parks.

A recent change in Canada's citizenship requirements may allow millions of Americans to qualify for dual Canadian citizenship. This has resulted in a significant increase in applications from the U.S.

A recent Daily Northwestern article on Evanston’s declining Black population should concern anyone who cares about the future of our city, because it represents a looming threat that has yet to be addressed. Evanston has long defined itself as a diverse, welcoming community. That identity is now und

[Link: https://mckinleypark.news/neighborhood/forums/neighborhood-talk/563-congrats-to-marz-for-ppa-at-marias]

Elizabeth Smart has revealed her journey as a bodybuilder, sharing her experiences from her fourth competition. Despite her achievements, she expressed fear about public judgment when posting her progress.

Saw this on an electrical box in Edgewater on Monday. Hadn't heard about it so just passing along!

[Link: https://i.redd.it/cmx0uztjevwg1.jpeg] Only a couple days left for the Schaumburg Community Garden Club native plant pre-orders. May I recommend Heartleafed Golden Alexander, a native host plant for swallowtail butterflies? Or royal catchfly, cardinal flower, and blue lobelia to attract humm

We are excited to be moving to south Evanston this summer! We have a four-year-old who I would like to enroll in a part-time preschool. Ideally three or four days a week, half day. Any suggestions? And would love to find something that has parent involvement and a community feel. Thank you!

Darrell Sheets, a prominent figure on the reality show 'Storage Wars,' has died at the age of 67. Authorities report that he was found with a self-inflicted gunshot wound at his home in Lake Havasu, Arizona.

Jena Lisa Jones and Jess Michaels, survivors of Jeffrey Epstein's abuse, support the Chicago Children's Advocacy Center, which aids over 2,200 children annually. Their advocacy highlights the importance of providing a safe space for young victims to share their experiences.

PAWS Chicago’s Animal Magnetism benefit returned to Morgan Manufacturing April 10 with more than 650 guests. This 19th annual event raised a record $315,000 to support the lifesaving work of PAWS Chicago on behalf of homeless pets.Presented by RWE Design Build and hosted by the organization’s Profes

Authors Aziz Abu Sarah (holding a book) and Maoz Inon (to his left) greet members of the Jewish Reconstructionist Congregation Tuesday after discussing their best-selling book The Future Is Peace. The book, released last week by the two peace activists—Abu Sarah, a Palestinian, and Inon, an Israeli—

Chicago police are seeking assistance in locating 16-year-old Joy Akhigbe, who went missing early Wednesday morning. Authorities are concerned for her well-being as she may require medical attention.