The Blackstone, Chicago’s historic ‘Hotel of Presidents,’ sold for about $43.2M to Vinayaka Hospitality. The deal follows a maturing loan and comes at a lower price than 2016.

After a decade on Milwaukee Avenue, Chiya Chai closed its Logan Square storefront on May 17, 2026; owners blame rising costs and say they're scouting a Northwest Side return.

The NLRB says the Chicago History Museum illegally fired and disciplined workers after they voted to unionize in April 2025. The formal complaint could lead to reinstatements or back pay.

Owner James Simelton plans to turn Culture Connects 707 into an all‑day spot — a café by day and comedy room by night — and has applied for licensing. No opening date has been set.

A line of fast-moving storms on May 18 knocked out power to thousands across the Chicago area and northwest Indiana as crews worked to restore service.

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.

Showers and thunderstorms are likely during the Monday morning commute with gusts to 30 mph. Expect more rounds through Tuesday and a cooldown Wednesday.

The Northern District of Illinois adopted a May 4 rule requiring redacted grand‑jury “no bill” forms be placed on dockets in cases with pending complaints or informations.

A 14-year-old, Devin Porter, was shot and later died in Michigan City. Police say detectives are interviewing witnesses and searching for surveillance as the investigation continues.

A 26-year-old woman was struck and critically injured in a hit-and-run in North Chicago. Police recovered a Volkswagen and Lake County's MCAT is investigating.

Orkin's 2026 list put Chicago at No. 2 for mosquito treatments; local officials say the real risk depends on summer weather, trap results and control work.

Predawn break-ins left broken glass at several businesses along Cermak Road, including Steve's Bite and La Calle Tacos; police had not released details.

Cook County deputies say they recovered a loaded, stolen handgun from a rider at the Garfield Boulevard Red Line station; Maurice Timberlake was charged and later released.