Community stories in Chicago

This weekend in Chicagoland features a variety of entertainment options including a screening of 'The Rocky Horror Picture Show' and live performances by Rod Wave and Víctor Cárdenas. Additionally, theatergoers can enjoy the murder mystery play 'Dead Girl’s Quinceañera.'

A 21-year-old Florida woman is accused of threatening to shoot President Donald Trump at an upcoming event in Daytona Beach, according to the Volusia County Sheriff's Office.

Vocalo, in collaboration with WBEZ and the Sun-Times, has created a Halloween playlist featuring over two hours of non-traditional spooky songs. The playlist includes tracks like 'Vamp Anthem' by Playboi Carti and 'Werewolves of London' by Warren Zevon, perfect for setting the mood at Halloween gatherings.

Deven DeNava has been enchanting visitors with his Halloween display in Woodridge, Illinois, for the past decade. Each year brings a new theme, showcasing his commitment to creating a memorable experience for the community.

Employees at the Joliet Treatment Center express concerns over ongoing fire safety issues, including broken alarms, despite recent improvements. The union representing workers highlights the need for a comprehensive fire safety plan following deadly incidents.

Gloria Washington's journey from a troubled subsidized apartment in Englewood to a new life in Schaumburg highlights the impact of housing mobility programs. These initiatives help low-income families escape high-crime areas and access better opportunities.

Civil rights organizations have filed a class-action lawsuit against the Miami Correctional Facility in Indiana, citing dangerous and unconstitutional conditions for detainees. The lawsuit seeks accountability and improvements after reports of severe mistreatment and deaths among immigrants held there.

Sir Patrick Stewart, renowned for his roles in 'Star Trek' and 'X-Men', has passed away at the age of 86. His family announced his death following a battle with Alzheimer's disease and Lewy body dementia.

Vic Mensa delivered a powerful performance at Garcia's, showcasing tracks from his debut mixtape 'Innanetape' as it arrives on streaming services. The show highlighted his evolution as an artist and his deep connection to Chicago.

The new animated series 'Avatar: Seven Havens' features Midwestern talent, including Executive Producer Sehaj Sethi and Story Editor Chad Quandt. Set 200 years after its predecessors, the show introduces a young Earthbender named Pavi, who discovers she is the new Avatar amidst a dangerous world.

Sir Patrick Stewart, renowned for his roles in 'Star Trek' and 'X-Men', passed away at the age of 86, prompting heartfelt tributes from fans and fellow actors. Notable figures like William Shatner and Hugh Jackman shared their memories and admiration for the iconic actor.

The annual 'Day of the Dead' celebrations, traditionally a Latin American event, are increasingly embraced across the United States. This two-day festival, occurring on November 1-2, honors the spirits of departed loved ones with vibrant rituals and decorations.

An Illinois Lotto player won $7.4 million from a ticket purchased at a BP gas station in Chicago's Garfield Ridge. Another ticket sold downstate won $1 million in the Lotto Million 2 drawing.

An exhibition at the Art Institute of Chicago highlights the work of impressionist painter Mary Cassatt, focusing on a giant mural created for the 1893 World’s Fair that has since disappeared. Curators aim to uncover the mural's history and significance to Chicago.

The City of Los Angeles is suing Wagmor Pets, a dog rescue accused of operating a puppy laundering operation. The lawsuit alleges the organization misled consumers by selling puppies sourced from commercial breeders as rescue pets.

A woman wearing a burka was escorted out of a Florida county commissioners meeting on Tuesday after playing a recording of the Islamic call to prayer during the public comment period where residents spoke against the potential expansion of a local mosque amid concerns from some over its wording on z

The combined jackpots for Mega Millions and Powerball have soared to over $1.2 billion, with Mega Millions at $463 million and Powerball at $760 million. Lottery players are expected to flock to retailers as the drawings approach.

Nextdoor has ranked the best neighborhoods in Chicagoland for trick-or-treating this Halloween. Families can use the Halloween Treat Map to find participating homes and local events.

Julie Roys, through her site Roys Report, exposes misconduct in evangelical churches, focusing on Wheaton College's handling of abuse allegations. Her work highlights systemic issues within religious organizations beyond the Catholic Church.

Día de Muertos, or Day of the Dead, is celebrated in Chicago with various traditions rooted in Mesoamerican and Spanish Catholic cultures. The holiday, occurring on Nov. 1 and 2, invites families to honor their deceased loved ones with ofrendas, food, and personal items.

Southport Grocery and Cafe, a beloved Lake View breakfast spot since 2003, will close its doors on December 31 to make way for Dollop Finer Diner. Regulars are gathering for one last breakfast as the community mourns the loss of this family-friendly gathering place.

A group of disabled veterans claims they were defrauded by a suburban contractor, losing more than $300,000. The veterans are sharing their experiences to warn others about potential scams in home contracting.

A delegation from Chicago, including college students and Catholic leaders, met with Pope Leo during a General Audience in Rome. The group, which comprised 20 priests, nuns, and laypeople, aimed to share their message with the pontiff.

Two college students, Kaden Matsuda and Jackson Donlon, remain missing after failing to return from a hike in Colorado's Rocky Mountains. A tent belonging to the hikers was discovered collapsed under snow, prompting ongoing search efforts.

This week in Chicago theater features 'Heroes of the Fourth Turning' at A Red Orchid Theatre and the musical 'Frozen' at Marriott Theatre. Both productions explore themes of connection and identity, offering audiences a chance to engage with compelling narratives.

V. Formusa Foods is a key player in Chicago's culinary scene, known for its famous giardiniera. This spicy condiment is a staple on Italian beef and pizza, adding a flavorful kick to various dishes.

Robin Roberts and George Stephanopoulos, co-anchors of 'Good Morning America,' will be honored with stars on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. The ceremony is scheduled for November 5, 2025, recognizing their contributions to the entertainment industry.