Dr. Robert Barnes+FollowSouth Side’s new Council of Black Elders launchesBig news for Chicago’s South Side: a new civil rights group, the Council of Black Elders, is coming in 2026 to tackle today’s toughest social and economic issues. Rev. Dr. Paul Jakes introduced the organization at a lively press event, emphasizing the need to bridge generations and help families navigate complex systems like housing and education. The Council aims to empower residents with knowledge—not just services—so everyone can better advocate for themselves. Plus, Jakes shared some personal joy: he’s getting married next June! What do you think—will this new group make a real difference for our neighborhoods? #Religion #Chicago #SouthSide00Share
Judith Dickson+FollowChicago’s hottest takes on regifting and relationshipsTurns out, regifting that holiday present might not be as taboo as you think—at least according to some of Chicago’s favorite personalities! On Windy City Weekend, Leon Rogers and Correy Bell didn’t hold back on their thoughts about regifting, and even tackled a viewer’s relationship dilemma with some real talk. Kenzie and Roman also joined in, debating whether gift cards are thoughtful or just plain lazy, and everyone had strong opinions about which room married couples argue in most. What’s your take—would you regift, and is a gift card ever enough? Let’s hear your stories! #Relationships #Chicago #WindyCityWeekend00Share
Willie Morales+FollowHow Chicago’s 2026 tax hikes hit your daily lifeStarting in 2026, everyday costs in Chicago are getting a shakeup. Grocery bag fees jump to 15 cents, so those reusable bags will really pay off. If you grab beer or wine for home, expect a small new tax at checkout. Rideshare trips in busy downtown zones will cost more during peak hours—think $1.50 extra for a solo ride. Even social media giants are facing new taxes, which could mean more ads or fees for us down the line. With rent, groceries, and now these hikes, how are you planning to adjust your budget? #Business #MakeMoney #Chicago00Share
julie72+FollowChance the Rapper lights up Chicago’s New YearChicago just made history on national TV! For the first time ever, ABC’s ‘New Year’s Rockin’ Eve’ featured a live Central Time countdown, and Chance the Rapper led the celebration right on the Riverwalk. The energy was unreal—even the freezing temps couldn’t stop the party. After the big moment, fireworks and “Sweet Home Chicago” filled the air. Plus, local favorites Terrell Brown and Cheryl Scott kept the city’s dance tradition alive with a showstopping routine in Millennium Park. This blend of music, culture, and pure Chicago spirit is what makes our city’s New Year’s Eve one to remember. What’s your favorite Chicago NYE memory? #Entertainment #Celebrity #Chicago20Share
Robert Daniels+FollowChicago’s Loop loses a classic steakhouseMcCormick & Schmick’s in the Loop has suddenly closed its doors, leaving regulars and staff in shock. After years of serving up steaks and seafood on East Wacker, the restaurant’s lease expired, and just like that, it’s gone. Employees are being offered spots at other Landry’s restaurants nearby, but for many Chicagoans, this spot was a go-to for celebrations and business lunches. What does this say about the changing face of downtown dining? If you’ve got memories from this place, or thoughts on what’s next for the Loop food scene, let’s hear them! #Food #Chicago #Loop00Share
Lisa Ramirez+FollowFamily worries for Chicago grandma facing deportationA 70-year-old grandmother who’s called the U.S. home for over 40 years is being deported from Chicago this week, and her family is terrified for her health. After serving 19 years in prison, she was rebuilding her life, staying active in her North Carolina community, and managing serious medical conditions. Now, her loved ones say she’s not getting the medication she needs while in custody, and they fear the long flight to the Philippines could be life-threatening. This situation raises big questions about how we treat older immigrants with health issues—what do you think should happen in cases like this? #Health #BodyHealth #Chicago11Share
Sandra Escobar+FollowIndy travelers get more Chicago flightsStarting this February, getting to Chicago from Indianapolis just got a whole lot easier. American Airlines is adding two more daily flights between IND and ORD, bumping the total to six peak departures each day. For anyone who commutes for work, loves a quick city getaway, or has family in Chicago, this means more flexibility and fewer headaches when booking. Plus, with Chicago being a major hub, it opens up even more global connections for Indy residents. Who’s planning to take advantage of these new flights? Let’s talk travel plans! #News #Indianapolis #Chicago00Share
Michael Alvarez+FollowChicago grocery tax: What’s really changing?That 1% grocery tax Illinois just scrapped? Don’t celebrate too soon—many towns (over 600!) are jumping in with their own grocery taxes, and whether you pay extra now depends on where you shop. In Chicago, the City Council is debating whether to keep the local tax to avoid a major budget shortfall. Meanwhile, new rules are kicking in statewide, from stronger protections for the Mahomet Aquifer to limits on hotel toiletry bottles and more support for firefighters and libraries. If you’re shopping or running a store, double-check your local tax rates—this patchwork could mean big differences at the checkout! #Food #Chicago #GroceryTax00Share
boothconnor+FollowEugene gets nonstop flights to Chicago!United Airlines is launching a daily nonstop flight between Eugene and Chicago starting April 30, 2026, giving locals a direct link to the Midwest. This means less layover hassle and more travel flexibility for anyone heading east. With tickets ranging from $214 to $874, it’s a big move for Eugene’s growing airport, which is also planning to double in size soon. While Breeze Airlines dropped its Burbank route, Eugene travelers still have fresh options, including a new Alaskan route and special Miami flights for Oregon football fans. How will this change your travel plans? #News #Eugene #Chicago00Share
boothconnor+FollowCleveland flyers get more options to ChicagoTraveling between Cleveland and Chicago just got a serious upgrade—American Airlines is ramping up to seven daily flights between the two cities starting in February. This move means more flexibility and better connections for anyone heading to O’Hare, whether it’s for business, family, or a quick getaway. It’s also heating up the competition with United, so we might see better prices and service. With American’s big spring expansion, Clevelanders will have even more access to global destinations. How do you think this will change your travel plans? #News #Cleveland #Chicago00Share
