Neighbors in Chicago Ridge say rat sightings have spiked this spring while city 311 complaints climb. Officials promise continued abatement as residents push for faster cleanup.

Northwestern has tapped Purdue President Mung Chiang as its next president, starting July 1. The hire brings tech-policy and fundraising heft to a campus still rebounding from federal scrutiny.

AgeOptions says it’s trimming home‑delivered meals and adding a waiting list as SNAP rule changes and grocery inflation push more seniors toward food aid.

An 18-year-old Mather High senior and his mother were detained by ICE at a court check-in, prompting rallies, legal petitions and a community fundraiser.

Hundreds gathered outside Project H.O.O.D.’s new McCormick center and pledged to keep the surrounding block a violence-free zone, organizers say. The event showcased plans for mentorship, job training and youth programming.

Neighbors and nonprofits turned an Englewood plaza into a block party to help people navigate sudden SNAP cuts with meals, paperwork help and training.

Breakthrough opened a 14-unit transitional housing complex in Garfield Park that pairs apartments with on-site supports for families. The Residences offers two- and three-bedroom units and connected programming.

A new childcare index finds infant tuition in Chicago averages about $21,613 a year — roughly the cost of many studio apartments — leaving families and early‑education staff squeezed. Local data shows long waits and limited slots in parts of the city.

Sam Sianis, the longtime owner of Chicago’s Billy Goat Tavern and a figure behind the cheezborger lore, has died at 91, the restaurant announced. The family-run spot paid tribute on social media.

Park Forest police are trying to reunite a horse found wandering near Western Avenue and Steger Road with its owner.

Fitch cut the University of Chicago’s long‑term rating to AA, citing persistent operating deficits and a roughly $6.4 billion debt load. The move raises questions about future borrowing and capital plans.

A new $3.5M fundraising campaign backed by tech and neighborhood groups aims to revive the SALUD Center pool — the only year‑round indoor pool that’s been closed since 2017.

University of Chicago will guarantee tuition‑free undergraduate study for families earning under $250,000 and cover housing and meals for those under $125,000.