Tag Page chicago

Chicago’s Westin hotel sold for $72M—what’s next?

A major shakeup just hit Michigan Avenue: the iconic Westin hotel has been sold for $72 million, way below its pre-pandemic value. Local investor Ketu Amin is stepping in as the new owner, backed by a hefty $54 million loan. Even with the lower price tag, this is one of the biggest hotel deals Chicago’s seen lately. What’s really wild is that hotel demand downtown is booming—over 3.5 million room nights were booked this summer, setting a city record. How do you think this sale will impact the neighborhood and Chicago’s hotel scene? #Business #Chicago #RealEstate

Contractor scam hits Chicago suburbs hard

A local contractor is facing felony charges after dozens of Chicago-area residents say they lost thousands on unfinished or shoddy home repairs. One elderly veteran paid $15,000 for a basement entryway that was never completed, and he’s not alone—others say they lost anywhere from $2,000 to over $100,000. With 15 complaints filed to the Illinois Attorney General, it’s clear this isn’t an isolated issue. If you’ve ever hired a contractor, how do you protect yourself from scams like this? Let’s talk about what’s worked (or hasn’t) for you and your neighbors. #Business #Chicago #HomeRepair

Chicago’s viral school story: What’s real?

A $175 million boarding school for orphans and homeless kids in Chicago, supposedly launched by Erika Kirk, has been making the rounds online—but it’s completely made up. The story, along with dramatic photos and videos, was generated by AI and spread by people looking to cash in on ad clicks. It’s wild how quickly these fake feel-good stories can go viral and tug at our emotions. Have you seen this one pop up in your feed? What do you think drives people to create and share these kinds of stories? #Safety #Chicago #FactCheck

Fresh Market opens in Old Town & Lexington

The Fresh Market is shaking up grocery shopping in Chicago’s Old Town and Lexington, KY, with two brand-new stores just in time for the holidays. Locals can expect a feast for the senses—think top-notch meats, seafood, and a curated mix of international and local products. The grand openings aren’t just about food: each community received a $2,000 donation to local food banks, and the celebrations will feature giveaways, samples, and even the cracking of an 80-pound wheel of Parmesan. How do you think these new stores will change your weekly shopping routine? #Food #FreshMarket #Chicago

Chicago’s bird hero is changing city skylines

Thousands of birds crash into Chicago’s glassy buildings every year, but thanks to Dave Willard’s decades of dedication, their stories don’t end there. Since the late ’70s, Willard has transformed tragic losses into one of the world’s most valuable scientific collections, helping spark changes like bird-friendly building designs and citywide Lights Out programs. His work proves that even small, behind-the-scenes efforts can drive real change for wildlife and our city. How do you think we can make urban spaces safer for birds—and what other hidden heroes deserve a spotlight? #Science #Chicago #BirdConservation

Chicago remembers DJ Commando’s big heart

Chicago lost a true legend with the passing of DJ Commando, who brought energy and joy to Bulls games, radio stations, and countless local events. His family is opening up about his struggles, hoping to break the silence around mental health—especially for young Black men. They’re encouraging everyone to check in on loved ones and talk openly about what’s really going on. DJ Commando’s legacy is about more than music; it’s about community, love, and the importance of supporting each other. How can we make it easier for people to reach out when they need help? #Entertainment #Chicago #MentalHealthMatters

Chicago’s Diana Dionisio retires after 35 years of impact

Diana Dionisio’s 35-year run at WGN-TV is the kind of career that leaves a mark on both a city and an industry. From wrangling Bozo the Clown and keeping Tom Skilling safe at public events, to raising nearly $5 million for local kids and uplifting Chicago teachers and students, she’s done it all—often behind the scenes. Her secret? She says it’s all about making it easy for people to say yes. What do you think makes someone a true community builder? Let’s celebrate those who do the work that matters most. #Entertainment #Celebrity #Chicago

Chicago rallies to reunite lost pup on CTA

A goldendoodle named Cooper became the talk of Chicago after vanishing from a car in the Loop. Within hours, the city’s social media lit up with posts and shares, turning Cooper into a mini celebrity. The wildest part? A stranger spotted him on the Pink Line train and, without missing a beat, scooped him up and made sure he got home. No reward needed—just pure kindness. It’s a reminder of how quickly a community can come together when it matters. Would you have done the same if you saw a lost pet on your commute? #Pets #Chicago #LostAndFound

I find it rather sad that a gangster back during the depression had more compassion than the people do now for those that are in need , I guess it’s just they want everybody to be eaten as a soup kitchen like they had to do in the Great Depression , In the heart of the Great Depression, Chicago's most notorious gangster, Al Capone, did something unexpected. He opened a soup kitchen to feed the city's hungry. But not all was as it seemed. #history #didyouknow #chicago #historyfacts

Chicago families get free laptops—here’s why it matters

Hundreds of Chicago-area families are getting a big boost this week: 600 free laptops are being handed out thanks to a partnership between The Salvation Army, AT&T, and Compudopt. For many local students, this means finally having the tools to do homework, connect with teachers, and access opportunities online. With so many still struggling to get reliable internet or devices, this effort is a real game-changer for closing the digital divide in our neighborhoods. What do you think—will more tech access help level the playing field for kids in our community? #Safety #Chicago #DigitalDivide