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A daily look at the most significant and interesting stories affecting Chicago. Written by Monica Eng, Justin Kaufmann and Carrie Shepherd.

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Biden announces library for John McCain in speech warning against MAGA extremism

Biden contrasted McCain's conservative legacy with today's Trump-aligned Republican faction.

Politics & Policy

During an impassioned speech about the future of democracy on Thursday, <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="President Biden" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/politics-policy/joe-biden" data-vars-content-id="93d30f86-ca5e-4506-b0dd-ddbed5056831" data-vars-headline="Biden announces library for John McCain in speech warning against MAGA extremism" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/politics-policy/joe-biden" target="_self">President Biden</a> announced federal funding to create a library and community facility at Arizona State University to honor the late Sen. John McCain of Arizona.What&#x27;s happening: The McCain Library will be a &quot;multipurpose facility that will provide Arizonans a place to learn, research, develop and work,&quot; according to the McCain Institute, a partner in the project.

Trump’s New York fraud trial cleared to begin Monday

The appeals court denied former President Trump's request to delay his trial.

An appeals court denied <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="former President Trump&#x27;s" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/politics-policy/donald-trump" data-vars-content-id="7450c6e0-5d35-428a-a57b-d8b14730fc25" data-vars-headline="Trump’s New York fraud trial cleared to begin Monday" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/politics-policy/donald-trump" target="_self">former President Trump&#x27;s</a> request to delay his trial in a <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="civil fraud case" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2023/08/30/trump-net-worth-inflated-letitia-james" data-vars-content-id="7450c6e0-5d35-428a-a57b-d8b14730fc25" data-vars-headline="Trump’s New York fraud trial cleared to begin Monday" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2023/08/30/trump-net-worth-inflated-letitia-james" target="_self">civil fraud case</a> brought by New York Attorney General Letitia James, <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="court filings" data-vars-click-url="https://iapps.courts.state.ny.us/fbem/DocumentDisplayServlet?documentId=TQ0jLXjats3lYZ3wagshtw==&amp;system=prod" data-vars-content-id="7450c6e0-5d35-428a-a57b-d8b14730fc25" data-vars-headline="Trump’s New York fraud trial cleared to begin Monday" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://iapps.courts.state.ny.us/fbem/DocumentDisplayServlet?documentId=TQ0jLXjats3lYZ3wagshtw==&amp;system=prod" target="_blank">court filings</a> show. The big picture: The move – which comes days after a <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="judge ruled" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2023/09/26/trump-fraud-ny-exaggerated-wealth" data-vars-content-id="7450c6e0-5d35-428a-a57b-d8b14730fc25" data-vars-headline="Trump’s New York fraud trial cleared to begin Monday" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2023/09/26/trump-fraud-ny-exaggerated-wealth" target="_self">judge ruled</a> that the former president committed fraud by <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="exaggerating his net worth" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2023/09/08/trump-net-worth-inflated-billions-new-york" data-vars-content-id="7450c6e0-5d35-428a-a57b-d8b14730fc25" data-vars-headline="Trump’s New York fraud trial cleared to begin Monday" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2023/09/08/trump-net-worth-inflated-billions-new-york" target="_self">exaggerating his net worth</a> on financial records – allows for the case to <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="go to trial on Oct. 2." data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2023/08/01/new-york-ags-office-trump-lawsuit-ready-trial" data-vars-content-id="7450c6e0-5d35-428a-a57b-d8b14730fc25" data-vars-headline="Trump’s New York fraud trial cleared to begin Monday" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2023/08/01/new-york-ags-office-trump-lawsuit-ready-trial" target="_self">go to trial on Oct. 2.</a>

California raises minimum wage for fast food workers to $20 an hour

Governor Gavin Newsom signed on to a compromise bill hammered out by workers and the fast food industry.

Economy & Business

California governor Gavin Newsom signed a law on Thursday that will raise fast food workers&#x27; pay in the state to $20 an hour starting in April 2024.Why it matters: The law&#x27;s passage is a huge win for labor — the campaign around this law was led by the Service Employees International Union (SEIU) — and signals <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="unions&#x27; growing power" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2023/09/04/labor-day-unionized-workers-raises-benefits" data-vars-content-id="78e84221-42c3-4a28-b29a-fe8b0510eda2" data-vars-headline="California raises minimum wage for fast food workers to $20 an hour" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2023/09/04/labor-day-unionized-workers-raises-benefits" target="_self">unions&#x27; growing power</a> in the U.S.

The big implications of soaring real rates

Markets believe the secular stagnation era of the 2010s is well and truly finished.

The <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="bond market" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2023/08/23/the-era-of-negative-real-rates-is-over" data-vars-content-id="8415b2d6-1f7e-4965-94a2-6fc2f5cb02b6" data-vars-headline="The big implications of soaring real rates" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2023/08/23/the-era-of-negative-real-rates-is-over" target="_self">bond market</a>&#x27;s remarkable moves this month imply a stronger economic growth path in the years ahead — but they happened without much evidence of changing fundamentals.The big picture: Bond prices have abruptly moved to levels that imply the high-pressure economy of the last couple of years will persist.

Fortnite maker Epic Games to cut nearly 900 jobs, 16% of workforce

Cuts come despite billions in investment in Epic in the last two years.

Technology

Fortnite maker Epic Games announced deep cuts today, citing a slowdown in the popularity of its marquee game, as layoffs continue in the games industry despite market growth.Driving the news: Epic will lay off around 870 employees and part ways with 250 others as it divests from music site Bandcamp and spins off &quot;most of&quot; kidstech marketing platform SuperAwesome, CEO Tim Sweeney told employees today in a <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="note Epic published to its website" data-vars-click-url="https://www.epicgames.com/site/en-US/news/layoffs-at-epic" data-vars-content-id="e8fe8825-e61b-4b16-8b59-16818ae3be74" data-vars-headline="Fortnite maker Epic Games to cut nearly 900 jobs, 16% of workforce" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.epicgames.com/site/en-US/news/layoffs-at-epic" target="_blank">note Epic published to its website</a> and first reported <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="by Bloomberg" data-vars-click-url="https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2023-09-28/epic-games-is-cutting-about-900-jobs-or-16-of-staff" data-vars-content-id="e8fe8825-e61b-4b16-8b59-16818ae3be74" data-vars-headline="Fortnite maker Epic Games to cut nearly 900 jobs, 16% of workforce" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2023-09-28/epic-games-is-cutting-about-900-jobs-or-16-of-staff" target="_blank">by Bloomberg</a>.

Lyric Opera's new SoundShirts let deaf patrons feel the music

The high-tech shirts create vibrations in tune with live performances.

News

Chicago moves closer to ending tipped wages

Will tipping become a thing of the past in Chicago?

Business

Chicago faces backlash over Mexican Independence Day street closings

The city's decision to block access to the Loop over the weekend created chaos on expressways, off-ramps and streets.

What to expect at Chicago's temporary casino at Medinah Temple

We break down the gambling and food options, plus the overall vibe.

Mayor Brandon Johnson introduces plan to combat homelessness

The proposed legislation would affect properties over $1 million.

Politics

Mayor Brandon Johnson introduced much-awaited legislation on Thursday that would increase the real estate transfer tax for properties sold for more than $1 million to raise funds for homeless services.Why it matters: Advocates say the proposal, known as <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Bring Chicago Home" data-vars-click-url="https://www.bringchicagohome.org/what-is-bring-chicago-home/" data-vars-content-id="a9774801-f5f2-4b18-8f6a-c25203c17aa7" data-vars-headline="Mayor Brandon Johnson introduces plan to combat homelessness" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.bringchicagohome.org/what-is-bring-chicago-home/" target="_blank">Bring Chicago Home</a>, could potentially raise $160 million annually to address homelessness with new permanent housing and wraparound services, including mental health and substance use counseling.

What to watch as Democrats prepare for 2024 DNC in Chicago

From transportation to after-parties, planners are pressured to showcase Chicago's best.

National and state Democratic leaders are in town this week to get the lay of the land ahead of the 2024 <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Democratic National Convention" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/chicago/2023/04/11/dnc-chicago-2024" data-vars-content-id="a7c0ec5c-aa2a-41a7-affd-667a6bc35d16" data-vars-headline="What to watch as Democrats prepare for 2024 DNC in Chicago" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/chicago/2023/04/11/dnc-chicago-2024" target="_self">Democratic National Convention</a>.Why it matters: Chicago&#x27;s bona fides as a convention city are strong, hosting <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="25 Democratic and Republican conventions" data-vars-click-url="https://www.chicagotribune.com/politics/ct-democratic-national-conventions-chicago-history-20230411-eqidfborc5cahpi7mjdtn3ddgu-story.html" data-vars-content-id="a7c0ec5c-aa2a-41a7-affd-667a6bc35d16" data-vars-headline="What to watch as Democrats prepare for 2024 DNC in Chicago" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.chicagotribune.com/politics/ct-democratic-national-conventions-chicago-history-20230411-eqidfborc5cahpi7mjdtn3ddgu-story.html" target="_blank">25 Democratic and Republican conventions</a> over the last 100-plus years. But it&#x27;ll be a first for Gov. JB Pritzker and Mayor Brandon Johnson&#x27;s administrations, which face a host of new issues to make sure the city showcases the best it has to offer.

Chicago new apartment construction declines

Rent prices for new leases in Chicago are still climbing.

Around 6,160 new apartment units are expected to be built across Chicago this year, down from roughly 8,970 in 2020, according to a new report.Why it matters: A <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="housing shortage" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2023/06/20/housing-shortage-prices-high" data-vars-content-id="e80c9d4d-037c-47fd-aad8-ae282657c41d" data-vars-headline="Chicago new apartment construction declines" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2023/06/20/housing-shortage-prices-high" target="_self">housing shortage</a> in the U.S. has contributed to the rising cost of both renting and buying.

Fixer-uppers are scaring off Chicago home buyers

We asked a local selling expert about fixes worth making.

Real Estate

To command top dollar in Chicago&#x27;s housing market, start by pulling up the carpet.<ul><li>Mid-century homes here usually have coveted hardwood hiding underneath, according to Chicago broker associate <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Mike McCallum" data-vars-click-url="https://www.bairdwarner.com/agent/105492-mike-mccallum/" data-vars-content-id="ed10f309-0b1f-4786-92a8-9d499d5dcde3" data-vars-headline="Fixer-uppers are scaring off Chicago home buyers" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.bairdwarner.com/agent/105492-mike-mccallum/" target="_blank">Mike McCallum</a>.</li></ul>Why it matters: Homebuyers already hampered by <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="gravity-defying prices" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2023/08/17/housing-prices-affordability-rise-fall-2023-goldman-sachs" data-vars-content-id="ed10f309-0b1f-4786-92a8-9d499d5dcde3" data-vars-headline="Fixer-uppers are scaring off Chicago home buyers" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2023/08/17/housing-prices-affordability-rise-fall-2023-goldman-sachs" target="_self">gravity-defying prices</a> and <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="mortgage rates" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2023/08/22/mortgage-rates-current" data-vars-content-id="ed10f309-0b1f-4786-92a8-9d499d5dcde3" data-vars-headline="Fixer-uppers are scaring off Chicago home buyers" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2023/08/22/mortgage-rates-current" target="_self">mortgage rates</a> don&#x27;t want to spring for a place that looks like an HGTV &quot;before&quot; photo.

Illustration of two hammers forming an "X" shape. 

Chicago Bears lose big in Kansas City

The team lost their 13th game in a row dating back to last year, as they start the season 0-3.

Sports

The Bears capped an <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="ugly week" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/chicago/2023/09/20/chicago-bears-alan-williams-resigns" data-vars-content-id="4a6c98c6-bcf6-44dd-8cdb-a97999e196cf" data-vars-headline="Chicago Bears lose big in Kansas City" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/chicago/2023/09/20/chicago-bears-alan-williams-resigns" target="_self">ugly week</a> with an ugly loss to the Chiefs, 41-10, on Sunday. Driving the news: The team lost their 13th game in a row dating back to last year, as they start the season 0-3.

Photo of a football player trying to score a touchdown

Bears defensive coordinator resigns

After missing last week's game for "personal reasons," defensive coordinator Alan Williams stepped down Wednesday.

Chicago Bears defensive coordinator Alan Williams stepped down Wednesday after missing last week&#x27;s game for &quot;personal reasons.&quot;The big picture: The coordinator&#x27;s departure comes after the Bears&#x27; defense started this season poorly. The team is 0-2.

Nominations now open for Axios Chicago Power Players

Submit a nomination for yourself or a local business leader doing good.

We all have memories of the local businesses that shaped our upbringing, whether a shop we often visited with our parents, a dealership where we purchased our first car or the company whose name was emblazoned on our little league jerseys.<ul><li>But those businesses wouldn&#x27;t have left such impressions or had such lingering impact if they weren&#x27;t powered by true community leaders.</li></ul>What&#x27;s happening: We know that at Axios, and that&#x27;s why we&#x27;re celebrating the biggest names, established leaders and rising stars in our business community in the second annual <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Axios Chicago Power Players" data-vars-click-url="https://powerplayers.axios.com/chicago-nomination?utm_source=axios&amp;utm_medium=site&amp;utm_campaign=pp-edit-site-2022" data-vars-content-id="816c98c8-0ff4-4e02-9b26-39f104b18ae4" data-vars-headline="Nominations now open for Axios Chicago Power Players" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://powerplayers.axios.com/chicago-nomination?utm_source=axios&amp;utm_medium=site&amp;utm_campaign=pp-edit-site-2022" target="_blank">Axios Chicago Power Players</a> list.

McHenry County pot dispensaries must warn of mental health risks

The move echoes a growing battle cry for more consumer protections.

McHenry County state&#x27;s attorney Patrick Kenneally is touting &quot;<a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="first-in-the-country" data-vars-click-url="https://www.chicagotribune.com/opinion/commentary/ct-opinion-marijuana-dispensaries-cannabis-mental-health-warnings-mchenry-county-20230901-ayai4f6kkrdqrnywlidhrioulu-story.html" data-vars-content-id="1062105a-0777-4fc1-b7c7-749d55fd5c1b" data-vars-headline="McHenry County pot dispensaries must warn of mental health risks" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.chicagotribune.com/opinion/commentary/ct-opinion-marijuana-dispensaries-cannabis-mental-health-warnings-mchenry-county-20230901-ayai4f6kkrdqrnywlidhrioulu-story.html" target="_blank">first-in-the-country</a>&quot; rules that require marijuana dispensaries in his county to prominently display signs warning that &quot;cannabis use may contribute to mental health problems.&quot;Why it matters: With little federal involvement in legal pot regulations, the move highlights the evolving nature of cannabis regulation and echoes a <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="growing battle cry" data-vars-click-url="https://kffhealthnews.org/news/article/legal-pot-is-more-potent-than-ever-and-still-largely-unregulated/" data-vars-content-id="1062105a-0777-4fc1-b7c7-749d55fd5c1b" data-vars-headline="McHenry County pot dispensaries must warn of mental health risks" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://kffhealthnews.org/news/article/legal-pot-is-more-potent-than-ever-and-still-largely-unregulated/" target="_blank">growing battle cry</a> for more consumer protections.

Illustration of a marijuana plant growing through a "no" symbol.

5 exciting Chicago restaurants opening this fall

Sticky wings, Ukrainian snacks, grilled meats and more.

Food and Drink

As fall weather descends on the city, some of the season&#x27;s most anticipated restaurant openings are arriving, too. Here are five new spots we&#x27;re watching:<h2 class="text-h6 !font-sans !font-normal !leading-[1.2em]"><a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Anelya" data-vars-click-url="http://www.anelyarestaurant.com/" data-vars-content-id="07fb14c6-7e43-4a3f-95e7-1acbfe8fe9a3" data-vars-headline="5 exciting Chicago restaurants opening this fall" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="http://www.anelyarestaurant.com/" target="_blank">Anelya</a></h2>Chef Johnny Clark — who co-owns Parachute with his wife, Beverly Kim — will expand the <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Ukrainian pop-up" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/chicago/2022/10/05/wherewithall-aid-ukraine-weekend-pop-up-anelya" data-vars-content-id="07fb14c6-7e43-4a3f-95e7-1acbfe8fe9a3" data-vars-headline="5 exciting Chicago restaurants opening this fall" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/chicago/2022/10/05/wherewithall-aid-ukraine-weekend-pop-up-anelya" target="_self">Ukrainian pop-up</a> he started last year into a full-fledged Avondale restaurant in October.

Chicago weekend guide: CXW, Taylor Swift Bar Crawl and more

Explore Chicago's art scene during the inaugural Chicago Exhibition Weekend.

Things to Do

Explore Chicago&#x27;s many art venues, meet fellow Swifties in Wrigleyville or take a bite out of an apple festival in Lincoln Square.

Illustration of famous paintings riding the subway. The destination says "weekend." 

Where to find National Coffee Day deals in Chicago

From Stan's to Big Shoulders, take advantage of discounts and free drink specials.

It&#x27;s almost National Coffee Day, and there are several local deals worth getting out of bed to take advantage of on Friday:<a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Stan&#x27;s Donuts and Coffee" data-vars-click-url="https://www.stansdonuts.com/" data-vars-content-id="eab5c80f-1c26-43f9-9e2e-29184a099d6f" data-vars-headline="Where to find National Coffee Day deals in Chicago" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.stansdonuts.com/" target="_blank">Stan&#x27;s Donuts and Coffee</a>: Free 16oz hot or iced coffee with any purchase in-store and 50% off the first month of coffee subscription orders with the code DrinkMoreCoffee.

Where Chicagoans would move if they left Illinois

Many say they'd head for the Hollywood Hills.

A majority of you would head for the Hollywood Hills — if you decided to leave Chicago (and Illinois).What&#x27;s happening: In our <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Axios Chicago survey" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/chicago/2023/09/21/where-to-live-illinois" data-vars-content-id="012fe76a-3a76-4dc3-a301-66a12aa9b1fd" data-vars-headline="Where Chicagoans would move if they left Illinois" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/chicago/2023/09/21/where-to-live-illinois" target="_self">Axios Chicago survey</a> last week, 18% of the 460 respondents picked California as their top destination. The warmth, beautiful nature, and the ocean all added up for readers.

Chicago's new Guinness brewery is officially open

The West Loop location features the first-ever Guinness bakery.

Stout fans, rejoice. Guinness&#x27; new <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Open Gate Brewery" data-vars-click-url="https://www.guinnessbrewerychicago.com/" data-vars-content-id="bf9a2ab7-30d6-4ae6-ae3a-a3186f2e13f2" data-vars-headline="Chicago&#x27;s new Guinness brewery is officially open" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.guinnessbrewerychicago.com/" target="_blank">Open Gate Brewery</a> opens Thursday in Fulton Market.Why it matters: Guinness die-hards don&#x27;t have to travel to Dublin to experience the perfect 119-second pour.

Illinois makes the grade on new college rankings

Northwestern University is No. 9 in the country, up one position from last year.

Education

The new <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="U.S. News &amp; World Report Best Colleges Rankings" data-vars-click-url="https://www.usnews.com/best-colleges" data-vars-content-id="355f5d3b-d94e-4067-b137-3eb6dad7cf25" data-vars-headline="Illinois makes the grade on new college rankings" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.usnews.com/best-colleges" target="_blank">U.S. News &amp; World Report Best Colleges Rankings</a> are out, and Illinois schools score near the top of the list.By the numbers: Northwestern University is No. 9 in the country for the 2023-24 school year, up one position <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="from last year" data-vars-click-url="https://patch.com/illinois/across-il/illinois-schools-ranked-among-u-s-news-2022-2023-best-colleges" data-vars-content-id="355f5d3b-d94e-4067-b137-3eb6dad7cf25" data-vars-headline="Illinois makes the grade on new college rankings" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://patch.com/illinois/across-il/illinois-schools-ranked-among-u-s-news-2022-2023-best-colleges" target="_blank">from last year</a>. Meanwhile, University of Chicago ranked No. 12 — dropping six spots.

Illustration of a line chart on a college pennant.

Taste Korean, Indian, Mexican and Nepali fusion dishes in Glenview

Moti & La Michoacana has locations in Glenview, Lincoln Park and downtown.

I think I found global fast-food heaven.What&#x27;s happening: <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Moti &amp; La Michoacana" data-vars-click-url="https://order.toasttab.com/online/moti_lamichoacana/item-palak-paneer-pizza_de0fc690-796d-41f0-8a88-40682b89ad60" data-vars-content-id="b719a4bf-f014-4075-a63f-c763bd9282e3" data-vars-headline="Taste Korean, Indian, Mexican and Nepali fusion dishes in Glenview" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://order.toasttab.com/online/moti_lamichoacana/item-palak-paneer-pizza_de0fc690-796d-41f0-8a88-40682b89ad60" target="_blank">Moti &amp; La Michoacana</a> opened last year in a Glenview strip mall dominated by a Joong Boo supermarket, and it has developed a menu that fuses Indian, Himalayan, Mexican and Korean foods in ways I&#x27;ve never seen.

Loop murals unveiled after neighbor complained design was too political

The three works represent the largest public art project to commemorate women's suffrage in the country.

South Loop murals planned to celebrate the 100th anniversary of the ratification of the 19th Amendment in 2020 are finally complete after a standoff with a neighbor.Why it matters: The three works represent the nation&#x27;s largest public art project commemorating women&#x27;s suffrage.

CPS experiments with scratch cooking at more schools

Westinghouse, South Shore, Little Village and Lane Tech High Schools are now cooking up freshly made lunches.

After decades of increasingly serving students more processed foods, CPS is experimenting with scratch cooking again.Why it matters: A <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="growing body of research" data-vars-click-url="https://www.washingtonpost.com/wellness/2023/06/27/ultra-processed-foods-predigested-health-risks/" data-vars-content-id="451f3962-e6fe-42c8-ba25-d07f2004fd6b" data-vars-headline="CPS experiments with scratch cooking at more schools" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.washingtonpost.com/wellness/2023/06/27/ultra-processed-foods-predigested-health-risks/" target="_blank">growing body of research</a> suggests that eating highly processed foods can affect appetite, weight gain, nutrient absorption and chronic disease, the Washington Post reported this summer.

Open-faced burger with lettuce, tomato, and onions on paper plate next to peach and small carton of milk.

Chicago's colliding housing crises drive tension between communities

Addressing the issue will require hundreds of millions of dollars in a year when the city is facing a yawning budget gap.

During his first months in office, Mayor Brandon Johnson has been navigating two <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="housing crises" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2023/09/23/housing-crisis-migrant-immigrants-homeless" data-vars-content-id="707b46d7-e14e-401c-8242-c3452f9596e2" data-vars-headline="Chicago&#x27;s colliding housing crises drive tension between communities" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2023/09/23/housing-crisis-migrant-immigrants-homeless" target="_self">housing crises</a> at once: the city&#x27;s growing number of unhoused people and thousands of newly arrived migrants.Why it matters: Addressing the issue will require hundreds of millions of dollars in a year when the city is facing a <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="yawning budget gap" data-vars-click-url="https://news.wttw.com/2023/09/13/chicago-faces-538m-budget-shortfall-2024-johnson" data-vars-content-id="707b46d7-e14e-401c-8242-c3452f9596e2" data-vars-headline="Chicago&#x27;s colliding housing crises drive tension between communities" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://news.wttw.com/2023/09/13/chicago-faces-538m-budget-shortfall-2024-johnson" target="_blank">yawning budget gap</a> and growing tensions between Black and Latino communities.

Nightmare on Clark Street is one of Chicago's scariest haunted houses

Plus, spooky Halloween drinks and Jell-O shots.

I recently checked out the revived <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Nightmare on Clark Street" data-vars-click-url="https://nightmareonclarkst.com/tickets" data-vars-content-id="ef1b7046-e2e7-4efa-8ae6-7a78cbeef800" data-vars-headline="Nightmare on Clark Street is one of Chicago&#x27;s scariest haunted houses" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://nightmareonclarkst.com/tickets" target="_blank">Nightmare on Clark Street</a> at the Bamboo Club in Wrigleyville — alone.What happened: After my son, my partner and my &quot;friend&quot; all backed out of helping me test this three-story scarefest, I said to myself, &quot;Buck up; it&#x27;s not real, and you&#x27;ll be fine by yourself.&quot;

A zombie figure with a woman in glasses next to it.

Line Report: When to visit Chicago's Starbucks Roastery to avoid waits

We asked an employee how to avoid long lines at the largest Starbucks in the world.

Welcome to &quot;Line Report,&quot; our new occasional series about some of the longest lines in the city, and whether the spots are actually worth the hype.Why it matters: Your time is valuable. Let us help you decide when to hit the hottest spots around town — or to skip them altogether!

Thompson Center transformed for Chicago Architecture Biennial

Artists are turning an abandoned store into an art gallery, and draping natural materials over the building's structure.

Artistic directors of this year&#x27;s <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Chicago Architecture Biennial" data-vars-click-url="https://chicagoarchitecturebiennial.org/" data-vars-content-id="02d52ccc-20bb-4f10-b38e-fd2b44c84a51" data-vars-headline="Thompson Center transformed for Chicago Architecture Biennial" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://chicagoarchitecturebiennial.org/" target="_blank">Chicago Architecture Biennial</a> (CAB) say they&#x27;re disrupting the traditional way art and architecture are presented.Why it matters: Though the Biennial celebrates Chicago&#x27;s global reputation for architecture, the event&#x27;s main goal is to highlight creativity in our neighborhoods and reimagine well-known spaces.

V-shaped light-colored wood structure in front of red beams.

AmazingCo plans mystery picnics in metro Chicago

I&#x27;m a sucker for Instagram pop-up ads, and when I saw one for a <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Mystery Picnic" data-vars-click-url="https://www.amazingco.me/us" data-vars-content-id="10d80534-e3b4-4dc1-b948-5949e11e6045" data-vars-headline="AmazingCo plans mystery picnics in metro Chicago" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.amazingco.me/us" target="_blank">Mystery Picnic</a>, I decided to take it for a spin last Sunday.How it works: We signed up for the <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="AmazingCo experience" data-vars-click-url="https://www.amazingco.me/us/experiences/mystery-picnics/dates/evanston" data-vars-content-id="10d80534-e3b4-4dc1-b948-5949e11e6045" data-vars-headline="AmazingCo plans mystery picnics in metro Chicago" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.amazingco.me/us/experiences/mystery-picnics/dates/evanston" target="_blank">AmazingCo experience</a> online and chose Evanston as our destination, but Lincoln Park and Naperville are also available. A day before the picnic, you receive an email that takes you to your itinerary, which allows you to click through each step&#x27;s clues.

Woman in front of a restaurant window, leaning against a black patio table.

It's time again for Chicagohenge

Here are the best times to catch the magic.

Saturday marks the autumnal equinox, when day and night are equally long and <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="local photographers geek out" data-vars-click-url="https://www.instagram.com/explore/tags/chicagohenge/" data-vars-content-id="11411c2c-9bc1-493e-9299-b3a4747b32bb" data-vars-headline="It&#x27;s time again for Chicagohenge" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.instagram.com/explore/tags/chicagohenge/" target="_blank">local photographers geek out</a> over the semiannual <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Chicagohenge" data-vars-click-url="https://secretchicago.com/chicagohenge/" data-vars-content-id="11411c2c-9bc1-493e-9299-b3a4747b32bb" data-vars-headline="It&#x27;s time again for Chicagohenge" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://secretchicago.com/chicagohenge/" target="_blank">Chicagohenge</a>.How it works: On spring and fall equinox days, the sun shoots straight east or west during sunrise and sunset, making for striking pictures down our perfectly gridded streets.

Honey Butter Fried Chicken owners' Best Day Ever in Chicago

Farmers markets, Lula Cafe, and the Cubs.

This summer, two of Chicago&#x27;s grooviest chefs and most <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="staff-friendly restaurateurs" data-vars-click-url="https://interactive.wttw.com/playlist/2023/06/12/honey-butter-fried-chicken-ten-years" data-vars-content-id="7f7ade58-762b-4abc-8605-57a0ace1d37f" data-vars-headline="Honey Butter Fried Chicken owners&#x27; Best Day Ever in Chicago" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://interactive.wttw.com/playlist/2023/06/12/honey-butter-fried-chicken-ten-years" target="_blank">staff-friendly restaurateurs</a> celebrated the 10th anniversary of their beloved Avondale eatery <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Honey Butter Fried Chicken" data-vars-click-url="https://www.honeybutter.com/" data-vars-content-id="7f7ade58-762b-4abc-8605-57a0ace1d37f" data-vars-headline="Honey Butter Fried Chicken owners&#x27; Best Day Ever in Chicago" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.honeybutter.com/" target="_blank">Honey Butter Fried Chicken</a>.Driving the news: Co-owners Christine Cikowski and Josh Kulp threw special events and announced they&#x27;re opening a <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="branch in Glencoe this fall" data-vars-click-url="https://chicago.eater.com/2023/6/12/23758012/honey-butter-fried-chicken-glencoe-suburbs-new-location-north-shore-chicago" data-vars-content-id="7f7ade58-762b-4abc-8605-57a0ace1d37f" data-vars-headline="Honey Butter Fried Chicken owners&#x27; Best Day Ever in Chicago" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://chicago.eater.com/2023/6/12/23758012/honey-butter-fried-chicken-glencoe-suburbs-new-location-north-shore-chicago" target="_blank">branch in Glencoe this fall</a>.

Chicago vendor's Crazy Snack combines Doritos, mangos and gummies

Best for: A snack on the go, hostess gift or conversation-starter at your next party.

When I first got wind of a snack combining jicama, mango, cucumber, gummy candies, Doritos, Takis, tamarind candy noodles, lime, chili powder and chamoy, I thought the creator was off his rocker.<ul><li>But that&#x27;s precisely why Albany Park snack specialist Cornelio Palma named his creation Merienda de Locos, or Crazy Snack.</li></ul>

Food Fight: Top gas station food in the Chicago area

From Casey's to Burger Bite, here's where you can score some tasty fuel.

<figure><img alt="Photo of a man holding a piece of pizza " height="3024" id="168c1f37-0df1-4a0b-b606-ddc9df71382b" src="https://images.axios.com/mht_DFDQYlLN2xizBLAOIjtvMN0=/2023/08/30/1693423676402.jpg" width="4032"/><figcaption>A fresh piece of pizza from Casey&#x27;s in Valpo. Photo: Justin Kaufmann/Axios</figcaption></figure>Chicago may lack the kind of <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="gas station culinary traditions" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/richmond/2023/07/21/royal-farms-sheetz-wawa-richmond" data-vars-content-id="9c44ee29-a4de-4a7b-9927-2cf588f96c0c" data-vars-headline="Food Fight: Top gas station food in the Chicago area" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/richmond/2023/07/21/royal-farms-sheetz-wawa-richmond" target="_self">gas station culinary traditions</a> some communities enjoy, but that doesn&#x27;t mean you can&#x27;t score some tasty fuel.<ul><li>We recently shared some of our faves, and readers shared theirs:</li></ul>

Allez Cafe's breakfast sandwich is among Chicago's best

Heavenly hash browns, and a steamed egg patty.

There&#x27;s another egg sandwich in town. And this one doesn&#x27;t come with an hourlong wait in line. (More on that in an upcoming newsletter.)The details: <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Allez Cafe" data-vars-click-url="https://www.instagram.com/allez.cafe/?hl=en" data-vars-content-id="31baf833-cf71-45af-8955-5bf6c095cf45" data-vars-headline="Allez Cafe&#x27;s breakfast sandwich is among Chicago&#x27;s best" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.instagram.com/allez.cafe/?hl=en" target="_blank">Allez Cafe</a> in Bucktown is the companion to Ambrosia Foods, an &quot;elegant catering&quot; spot from a former Alinea and Blackbird chef Jason Melamed.<ul><li>You can&#x27;t miss the bubble-gum pink storefront at Western and Lyndale.</li></ul>The best bite: The breakfast sandwich ($10) is served on a squishy potato roll with a crisp block of hash browns and a McDonald&#x27;s-esque steamed egg patty. The melted Gouda is balanced with a sweet jalapeño jam.<ul><li>I get it without the bacon, but breakfast sammie diehards will probably want to leave it on.</li></ul>🍩 1 more thing: Don&#x27;t skip the Earl Grey cruller ($6.50), with a cronut-style base and creamy frosting flecked with (edible) violet petals. Delicious.<figure><img alt="donut " height="1464" id="f99877ed-04d6-4b54-bce9-1af01c8e7223" src="https://images.axios.com/VjA1sgfFas_jzFIc4EY9w1GTkKs=/2023/09/15/1694810830783.jpg" width="2000"/><figcaption>I think about this cruller often. Photo: Carrie Shepherd/Axios</figcaption></figure>

Where to eat for Black Restaurant Week in Chicago

Black-owned restaurants in and around Chicago are getting an extra spotlight through Sept. 24 as part of national <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Black Restaurant Week" data-vars-click-url="https://blackrestaurantweeks.com/midwest-black-restaurant-week/" data-vars-content-id="14586065-c425-492f-9ee1-43be0bf8cd17" data-vars-headline="Where to eat for Black Restaurant Week in Chicago" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://blackrestaurantweeks.com/midwest-black-restaurant-week/" target="_blank">Black Restaurant Week</a>.Why it matters: Minority-owned eateries were hit especially hard during the height of the pandemic, and they weren&#x27;t getting the same financial support as their white counterparts, <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Eater reported in 2020" data-vars-click-url="https://chicago.eater.com/2020/4/22/21212651/coronavirus-relief-funds-not-reaching-minorities-chicago-restaurants-bars" data-vars-content-id="14586065-c425-492f-9ee1-43be0bf8cd17" data-vars-headline="Where to eat for Black Restaurant Week in Chicago" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://chicago.eater.com/2020/4/22/21212651/coronavirus-relief-funds-not-reaching-minorities-chicago-restaurants-bars" target="_blank">Eater reported in 2020</a>.

New pumpkin spice products to try at Aldi

Cheerios, chips and ... pumpkin spice ice cream?

It&#x27;s early September, which means retailers are showering everything in sight with magic pumpkin spice powder, especially at Batavia-based Aldi stores.Why it matters: Pumpkin spice foods can inspire disgust or delight. To help you find more of the latter, we tried a bunch to tell you which are truly spice-worthy.<h2 class="text-h6 !font-sans !font-normal !leading-[1.2em]">Cheerios</h2>Monica&#x27;s verdict: Nice PS fragrance when I opened the bag and not overly sweet, but a weak finish. ($3.49)Rating: 🎃🎃 (out of 5)<h2 class="text-h6 !font-sans !font-normal !leading-[1.2em]">Chips</h2><figure><img alt="sweet potato chips " height="2325" id="cfb18d65-1043-49c2-ba69-4026dd8b3135" src="https://images.axios.com/rLoQmz8ZKz1rMw0p4oD6aG_0Szc=/2023/09/11/1694456713924.jpg" width="3485"/><figcaption>Sweet potato and cinnamon chips. Photo: Monica Eng</figcaption></figure>Monica&#x27;s verdict: While pumpkin spice isn&#x27;t on the label, these sweet potato chips with warm spicing feel and taste like PS wannabes.<ul><li>Tasty and crunchy but could use more of a certain autumnal spice. ($2.69)</li></ul>Rating: 🎃🎃🎃<h2 class="text-h6 !font-sans !font-normal !leading-[1.2em]">Almonds</h2><figure><img alt="almonds" height="2256" id="85abb5d6-150b-4ff0-92e2-713c30309edc" src="https://images.axios.com/yK9WMeIi6TRbzZ-HvbO7yisUqmU=/2023/09/11/1694456765547.jpg" width="3337"/><figcaption>Pumpkin spiced almonds from Aldi. Photo: Monica Eng/Axios </figcaption></figure>Monica&#x27;s verdict: Wow! I love the bold PS flavor paired with a light candied sweetness on these toasted nuts. ($5.79)Rating: 🎃🎃🎃🎃<h2 class="text-h6 !font-sans !font-normal !leading-[1.2em]">Oreos</h2><figure><img alt="" height="2614" id="26557434-e601-489d-a4c7-b1b3719128e5" src="https://images.axios.com/RJlHOF122IZJ2Dbx5HDhlOfLS1o=/2023/09/11/1694457038770.jpg" width="3985"/><figcaption>Various pumpkin spice products at Aldi this week. Photo: Carrie Shepherd/Axios </figcaption></figure>Carrie&#x27;s verdict: Creamy and not artificial tasting, surprisingly. The cookie part was underwhelming, but who reaches for an Oreo because of the cookie? ($4.58)Rating: 🎃🎃🎃🎃 <h2 class="text-h6 !font-sans !font-normal !leading-[1.2em]">Applesauce</h2>Carrie&#x27;s verdict: First things first. I don&#x27;t like the consistency of applesauce. I&#x27;d rather just have an apple. This is not pumpkin spice, just pumpkin, but it basically tastes like applesauce with a weird aftertaste. ($1.95) Rating: 🎃<h2 class="text-h6 !font-sans !font-normal !leading-[1.2em]">Ice cream</h2><figure><img alt="ice cream " height="1418" id="03a3cb81-a852-4ecb-8d20-bbf7e7c45872" src="https://images.axios.com/xR0aHQHJIxHTqqmY8A_j-2oWRfY=/2023/09/11/1694457167757.jpg" width="2000"/><figcaption>Pumpkin spice ice cream from Aldi. Photo: Carrie Shepherd/Axios</figcaption></figure>Carrie&#x27;s verdict: I love pumpkin ice cream, but this one forces the spice factor, which doesn&#x27;t deliver. Lose the spice! ($1.99) Rating: 🎃🎃The intrigue: Mysteriously we couldn&#x27;t find Aldi&#x27;s promised pumpkin-spiced wine and yogurt at our local stores.<ul><li>Aldi officials have not responded to multiple Axios requests for comment on this and <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="ongoing store shortages" data-vars-click-url="https://blockclubchicago.org/2023/07/27/chicago-aldi-shoppers-finding-bare-shelves-empty-freezers-at-north-side-stores/" data-vars-content-id="a8af0cc2-37d9-41bf-8216-456f5580be1c" data-vars-headline="New pumpkin spice products to try at Aldi" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://blockclubchicago.org/2023/07/27/chicago-aldi-shoppers-finding-bare-shelves-empty-freezers-at-north-side-stores/" target="_blank">ongoing store shortages</a>.</li><li>Staffers, however, tells us that the problem, caused by a computer system changeover, should be sorted out in the next week or so.</li></ul>

Tips to score great deals and reduce food waste in Chicago

I use the Too Good To Go app to find cheap bags of excess food from restaurants, bakeries, even gas stations.

Since the <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Too Good to Go app" data-vars-click-url="https://www.toogoodtogo.com/en-us" data-vars-content-id="47bdd8b6-3d9f-4bd7-87e6-6dc3d61e7034" data-vars-headline="Tips to score great deals and reduce food waste in Chicago" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.toogoodtogo.com/en-us" target="_blank">Too Good to Go app</a> came to Chicago in 2021, I&#x27;ve been a regular scavenger for cheap bags of excess food from restaurants, bakeries, even gas stations. How it works: The offerings change daily, even hourly, and feature places offering &quot;surprise&quot; bags of whatever they&#x27;re trying to get rid of that day. You can sort by distance and select favorites.

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