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Another mass shooting in the same location<a href="https://blockclubchica ...
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<title>4 Killed, 14 Wounded In Mass Shooting Outside River North Restaurant</title>
<link>https://blockclubchicago.org/2025/07/03/4-killed-14-wounded-in-mass-shooting-outside-river-north-restaurant/</link>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[Block Club Chicago Staff and Colin Boyle]]></dc:creator>
<pubDate>Thu, 03 Jul 2025 12:12:01 +0000</pubDate>
<category><![CDATA[Downtown]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[River North, Gold Coast, Near North Side]]></category>
<guid isPermaLink="false">https://blockclubchicago.org/?p=896795</guid>
<description><![CDATA[<figure><img width="1024" height="683" src="https://i0.wp.com/bcc-newspack.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/2025/07/DSC_3766.jpeg?fit=1024%2C683&ssl=1" class="attachment-rss-image-size size-rss-image-size wp-post-image" alt="" decoding="async" fetchpriority="high" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/bcc-newspack.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/2025/07/DSC_3766.jpeg?w=1620&ssl=1 1620w, https://i0.wp.com/bcc-newspack.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/2025/07/DSC_3766.jpeg?resize=300%2C200&ssl=1 300w, https://i0.wp.com/bcc-newspack.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/2025/07/DSC_3766.jpeg?resize=1024%2C683&ssl=1 1024w, https://i0.wp.com/bcc-newspack.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/2025/07/DSC_3766.jpeg?resize=768%2C512&ssl=1 768w, https://i0.wp.com/bcc-newspack.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/2025/07/DSC_3766.jpeg?resize=1536%2C1024&ssl=1 1536w, https://i0.wp.com/bcc-newspack.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/2025/07/DSC_3766.jpeg?resize=1200%2C800&ssl=1 1200w, https://i0.wp.com/bcc-newspack.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/2025/07/DSC_3766.jpeg?resize=780%2C520&ssl=1 780w, https://i0.wp.com/bcc-newspack.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/2025/07/DSC_3766.jpeg?resize=400%2C267&ssl=1 400w, https://i0.wp.com/bcc-newspack.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/2025/07/DSC_3766.jpeg?resize=706%2C471&ssl=1 706w, https://i0.wp.com/bcc-newspack.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/2025/07/DSC_3766.jpeg?fit=1024%2C683&ssl=1&w=370 370w" sizes="(max-width: 34.9rem) calc(100vw - 2rem), (max-width: 53rem) calc(8 * (100vw / 12)), (min-width: 53rem) calc(6 * (100vw / 12)), 100vw" /></figure>There was still blood and people's personal items strewn about where the shooting happened Thursday morning.]]></description>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[<figure><img width="1024" height="683" src="https://i0.wp.com/bcc-newspack.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/2025/07/DSC_3766.jpeg?fit=1024%2C683&ssl=1" class="attachment-rss-image-size size-rss-image-size wp-post-image" alt="" decoding="async" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/bcc-newspack.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/2025/07/DSC_3766.jpeg?w=1620&ssl=1 1620w, https://i0.wp.com/bcc-newspack.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/2025/07/DSC_3766.jpeg?resize=300%2C200&ssl=1 300w, https://i0.wp.com/bcc-newspack.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/2025/07/DSC_3766.jpeg?resize=1024%2C683&ssl=1 1024w, https://i0.wp.com/bcc-newspack.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/2025/07/DSC_3766.jpeg?resize=768%2C512&ssl=1 768w, https://i0.wp.com/bcc-newspack.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/2025/07/DSC_3766.jpeg?resize=1536%2C1024&ssl=1 1536w, https://i0.wp.com/bcc-newspack.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/2025/07/DSC_3766.jpeg?resize=1200%2C800&ssl=1 1200w, https://i0.wp.com/bcc-newspack.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/2025/07/DSC_3766.jpeg?resize=780%2C520&ssl=1 780w, https://i0.wp.com/bcc-newspack.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/2025/07/DSC_3766.jpeg?resize=400%2C267&ssl=1 400w, https://i0.wp.com/bcc-newspack.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/2025/07/DSC_3766.jpeg?resize=706%2C471&ssl=1 706w, https://i0.wp.com/bcc-newspack.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/2025/07/DSC_3766.jpeg?fit=1024%2C683&ssl=1&w=370 370w" sizes="(max-width: 34.9rem) calc(100vw - 2rem), (max-width: 53rem) calc(8 * (100vw / 12)), (min-width: 53rem) calc(6 * (100vw / 12)), 100vw" /></figure>
RIVER NORTH — Four people were killed and 14 were wounded late Wednesday in a mass shooting outside a River North restaurant and lounge, police said.
At 11:02 p.m., a dark-colored car went past Artis Restaurant, 311 W. Chicago Ave., and a person in the car shot into a crowd of people standing outside, police said. The people in the car drove off.
Two women, whose ages weren’t known, were shot in their chests and taken to Northwestern Hospital, where they were pronounced dead, police said.
A 24-year-old man who was shot in his chest and a 25-year-old man who was shot in his head were taken to Stroger Hospital, where they were pronounced dead, police said.
At least 14 people were wounded and taken to local hospitals, police said.
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Among them, three women were in critical condition: a 24-year-old woman shot in her back, a 25-year-old woman shot in her left leg and a 21-year-old woman shot in her mouth. A 31-year-old woman who was shot multiple times throughout her body was in serious condition, police said.
The other victims — 10 men and women 24 to 32 years old — were in fair to good condition at various hospitals, police said.
The shooting came after an album release party for Mello Buckzz. The artist posted about the victims on social media, asking people to pray for the victims. 
“I dont wish this typa pain on nobody,” she wrote on Instagram.
There was still blood and people’s personal items strewn about where the shooting happened Thursday morning.
Another mass shooting in the same location<a href="https://blockclubchicago.org/2022/11/09/hush-nightclub-in-river-north-shut-down-after-shootout-killed-man-wounded-3-others/" data-wpel-link="internal"> left a man dead and three people wounded in 2022</a>. That shooting led to the city shutting down Hush, a bar which had been in the location at that time.
This is a developing story. Check back for updates.
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<title>Krystal Rivera’s Family Calls For Independent Investigation Into Officer’s Death At Hands Of Partner </title>
<link>https://blockclubchicago.org/2025/07/02/krystal-riveras-family-calls-for-independent-investigation-into-officers-death-at-hands-of-partner/</link>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[Alex V. Hernandez]]></dc:creator>
<pubDate>Wed, 02 Jul 2025 19:43:01 +0000</pubDate>
<category><![CDATA[Chatham]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[City Hall]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Downtown]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Englewood, Chatham, Auburn Gresham]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Lincoln Square, North Center, Irving Park]]></category>
<guid isPermaLink="false">https://blockclubchicago.org/?p=896316</guid>
<description><![CDATA[<figure><img width="1024" height="683" src="https://i0.wp.com/bcc-newspack.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/2025/07/6-x-4-in-3.png?fit=1024%2C683&ssl=1" class="attachment-rss-image-size size-rss-image-size wp-post-image" alt="Krystal Rivera" decoding="async" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/bcc-newspack.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/2025/07/6-x-4-in-3.png?w=1800&ssl=1 1800w, https://i0.wp.com/bcc-newspack.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/2025/07/6-x-4-in-3.png?resize=300%2C200&ssl=1 300w, https://i0.wp.com/bcc-newspack.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/2025/07/6-x-4-in-3.png?resize=1024%2C683&ssl=1 1024w, https://i0.wp.com/bcc-newspack.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/2025/07/6-x-4-in-3.png?resize=768%2C512&ssl=1 768w, https://i0.wp.com/bcc-newspack.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/2025/07/6-x-4-in-3.png?resize=1536%2C1024&ssl=1 1536w, https://i0.wp.com/bcc-newspack.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/2025/07/6-x-4-in-3.png?resize=1200%2C800&ssl=1 1200w, https://i0.wp.com/bcc-newspack.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/2025/07/6-x-4-in-3.png?resize=780%2C520&ssl=1 780w, https://i0.wp.com/bcc-newspack.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/2025/07/6-x-4-in-3.png?resize=400%2C267&ssl=1 400w, https://i0.wp.com/bcc-newspack.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/2025/07/6-x-4-in-3.png?resize=706%2C471&ssl=1 706w, https://i0.wp.com/bcc-newspack.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/2025/07/6-x-4-in-3.png?fit=1024%2C683&ssl=1&w=370 370w" sizes="(max-width: 34.9rem) calc(100vw - 2rem), (max-width: 53rem) calc(8 * (100vw / 12)), (min-width: 53rem) calc(6 * (100vw / 12)), 100vw" /></figure>The family of the slain officer wants camera footage and information about the officer who killed her released. The investigation, they argue, should be handled the way it would “had she been shot and killed by someone not wearing a CPD uniform.”]]></description>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[<figure><img width="1024" height="683" src="https://i0.wp.com/bcc-newspack.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/2025/07/6-x-4-in-3.png?fit=1024%2C683&ssl=1" class="attachment-rss-image-size size-rss-image-size wp-post-image" alt="Krystal Rivera" decoding="async" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/bcc-newspack.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/2025/07/6-x-4-in-3.png?w=1800&ssl=1 1800w, https://i0.wp.com/bcc-newspack.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/2025/07/6-x-4-in-3.png?resize=300%2C200&ssl=1 300w, https://i0.wp.com/bcc-newspack.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/2025/07/6-x-4-in-3.png?resize=1024%2C683&ssl=1 1024w, https://i0.wp.com/bcc-newspack.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/2025/07/6-x-4-in-3.png?resize=768%2C512&ssl=1 768w, https://i0.wp.com/bcc-newspack.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/2025/07/6-x-4-in-3.png?resize=1536%2C1024&ssl=1 1536w, https://i0.wp.com/bcc-newspack.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/2025/07/6-x-4-in-3.png?resize=1200%2C800&ssl=1 1200w, https://i0.wp.com/bcc-newspack.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/2025/07/6-x-4-in-3.png?resize=780%2C520&ssl=1 780w, https://i0.wp.com/bcc-newspack.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/2025/07/6-x-4-in-3.png?resize=400%2C267&ssl=1 400w, https://i0.wp.com/bcc-newspack.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/2025/07/6-x-4-in-3.png?resize=706%2C471&ssl=1 706w, https://i0.wp.com/bcc-newspack.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/2025/07/6-x-4-in-3.png?fit=1024%2C683&ssl=1&w=370 370w" sizes="(max-width: 34.9rem) calc(100vw - 2rem), (max-width: 53rem) calc(8 * (100vw / 12)), (min-width: 53rem) calc(6 * (100vw / 12)), 100vw" /></figure>
LOOP — The family of slain Chicago Police Officer Krystal Rivera is calling on the Police Department to release all body camera footage from the night of Rivera’s death and to explain why the officer who shot Rivera — who had a significant disciplinary record at the time of the shooting — was allowed on duty in the first place.
Krystal Rivera, 36, of Irving Park, was a single mother to a young daughter and had been with the Police Department for four years prior to being killed on duty on June 5, police Supt. Larry Snelling previously said.
Rivera was <a href="https://blockclubchicago.org/2025/06/06/chicago-police-officer-krystal-rivera-shot-killed-in-chatham/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener" data-wpel-link="internal">shot by another officer </a>during a foot chase of an armed suspect in the 8200 block of South Drexel Avenue, police said at the time. But the Police Department has refused to release the dash cam or body camera footage from the night in question — something typically released within days of such an incident, attorneys for Rivera’s family said.
The department also won’t release the personnel file for Officer Carlos A. Baker, the officer who killed Rivera — who was placed on 30-day administrative leave but could be back on duty as soon as Friday, attorneys said. A police spokesperson said that the officer would remain on “routine administration duties.”
<div class="wp-block-image">
<figure class="alignleft size-large is-resized"><img data-recalc-dims="1" decoding="async" width="780" height="975" src="https://i0.wp.com/bcc-newspack.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/2025/06/Police-Officer-Krystal-Rivera-19020-819x1024.jpg?resize=780%2C975&ssl=1" alt="Chicago Police Officer Krystal Rivera, 36, died after being shot by a rifle when police chased a person into an apartment in the 8200 block of South Drexel Avenue about 9:50 p.m., Thursday, June 5." class="wp-image-885495" style="width:310px;height:auto" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/bcc-newspack.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/2025/06/Police-Officer-Krystal-Rivera-19020.jpg?resize=819%2C1024&ssl=1 819w, https://i0.wp.com/bcc-newspack.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/2025/06/Police-Officer-Krystal-Rivera-19020.jpg?resize=240%2C300&ssl=1 240w, https://i0.wp.com/bcc-newspack.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/2025/06/Police-Officer-Krystal-Rivera-19020.jpg?resize=768%2C961&ssl=1 768w, https://i0.wp.com/bcc-newspack.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/2025/06/Police-Officer-Krystal-Rivera-19020.jpg?resize=1228%2C1536&ssl=1 1228w, https://i0.wp.com/bcc-newspack.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/2025/06/Police-Officer-Krystal-Rivera-19020.jpg?resize=1200%2C1501&ssl=1 1200w, https://i0.wp.com/bcc-newspack.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/2025/06/Police-Officer-Krystal-Rivera-19020.jpg?resize=780%2C976&ssl=1 780w, https://i0.wp.com/bcc-newspack.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/2025/06/Police-Officer-Krystal-Rivera-19020.jpg?resize=400%2C500&ssl=1 400w, https://i0.wp.com/bcc-newspack.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/2025/06/Police-Officer-Krystal-Rivera-19020.jpg?resize=706%2C883&ssl=1 706w, https://i0.wp.com/bcc-newspack.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/2025/06/Police-Officer-Krystal-Rivera-19020.jpg?w=1476&ssl=1 1476w, https://i0.wp.com/bcc-newspack.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/2025/06/Police-Officer-Krystal-Rivera-19020-819x1024.jpg?w=370&ssl=1 370w" sizes="(max-width: 780px) 100vw, 780px" /><figcaption>Credit: Chicago Police Department</figcaption></figure></div>
“We call on Chicago Police Superintendent Snelling to share all the information available and explain what happened to Officer Rivera fully, in the same way you would have had she been shot and killed by someone not wearing a CPD uniform,” said Antonio M. Romanucci, founding partner of Romanucci & Blandin, LLC. “The community is asking for, and deserves, answers. We know Chicago Police have a dangerous and demanding job, but that is not an excuse for poor training and supervision or rogue policing.”
Attorneys from Romanucci & Blandin LLC have been hired by Yolanda Rivera, Krystal Rivera’s mother, and her family to ask Chicago officials to allow Illinois State Police to conduct an independent investigation into the shooting that killed her. The family held a news conference Downtown on Wednesday to announce their demands.
“Crystal was not just my daughter. She was my best friend, my confidant and the light of my life,” said Rivera’s mother, Yolanda Rivera, while surrounded by about 20 loved ones during Wednesday’s news conference. “She was the one I turned to for comfort, for laugher, for strength.”
There’s an “emptiness” to her life now that her daughter, who she spoke to daily and would often take long walks with, is no longer around, she said.
The family hasn’t filed a lawsuit against the city or the department over Krystal Rivera’s death, but their attorneys haven’t ruled that possibility out.
“What we are looking at all of our civil avenues of justice. And I can tell you that we have some very viable avenues, despite this being line of duty shooting,” Romanucci said. “We are very hopeful that our investigation and research takes us where we think we need to be. But in the meantime, I think it’s fair that we get full accountability and transparency from CPD.”
A police spokesman said in an email Wednesday that Rivera’s shooting “is under the jurisdiction of the Civilian Office of Police Accountability (COPA).”
As of Wednesday, COPA was still conducting “a thorough investigation” into the shooting, spokesperson Jennifer Rottner said in an email to Block Club.
“In addition, anytime an officer discharges their firearm, we notify the Cook County State’s Attorney’s Office (CCSAO) and did so in this incident,” Rottner said, in the email.
During the June 5 foot chase, a person — later identified as <a href="https://blockclubchicago.org/2025/06/22/second-man-charged-in-officer-krystal-riveras-accidental-shooting-death-police-say/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener" data-wpel-link="internal">Jaylin Arnold</a> by police — ran into an apartment building nearby and the officers chased him, police said. There, they were confronted by <a href="https://blockclubchicago.org/2025/06/08/man-charged-in-police-chase-that-killed-officer-krystal-rivera/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener" data-wpel-link="internal">Adrian Rucker</a>, who was standing behind a couch and had a gun pointed at the officers, Snelling previously said.
Rivera’s partner, standing in the doorway, fired their gun as Rivera chased Arnold down the hallway, prosecutors said. The bullet struck Rivera, who died from a gunshot wound to the back, according to the Cook County Medical Examiner’s Office.
Officers got Rivera into a car and tried to rush her to a hospital, but they crashed and the car caught fire. Rivera was moved into another car and taken to the hospital, where she died from her wounds, Snelling previously said.
Another officer suffered a wrist injury and was hospitalized in fair condition, police said.
<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img data-recalc-dims="1" decoding="async" width="780" height="519" src="https://i0.wp.com/bcc-newspack.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/2025/06/062525-CPD-Officer-Rivera-Funeral-Colin-Boyle-3874-1024x682.jpg?resize=780%2C519&ssl=1" alt="" class="wp-image-894047" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/bcc-newspack.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/2025/06/062525-CPD-Officer-Rivera-Funeral-Colin-Boyle-3874.jpg?resize=1024%2C682&ssl=1 1024w, https://i0.wp.com/bcc-newspack.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/2025/06/062525-CPD-Officer-Rivera-Funeral-Colin-Boyle-3874.jpg?resize=300%2C200&ssl=1 300w, https://i0.wp.com/bcc-newspack.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/2025/06/062525-CPD-Officer-Rivera-Funeral-Colin-Boyle-3874.jpg?resize=768%2C512&ssl=1 768w, https://i0.wp.com/bcc-newspack.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/2025/06/062525-CPD-Officer-Rivera-Funeral-Colin-Boyle-3874.jpg?resize=1536%2C1024&ssl=1 1536w, https://i0.wp.com/bcc-newspack.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/2025/06/062525-CPD-Officer-Rivera-Funeral-Colin-Boyle-3874.jpg?resize=1200%2C800&ssl=1 1200w, https://i0.wp.com/bcc-newspack.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/2025/06/062525-CPD-Officer-Rivera-Funeral-Colin-Boyle-3874.jpg?resize=780%2C520&ssl=1 780w, https://i0.wp.com/bcc-newspack.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/2025/06/062525-CPD-Officer-Rivera-Funeral-Colin-Boyle-3874.jpg?resize=400%2C267&ssl=1 400w, https://i0.wp.com/bcc-newspack.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/2025/06/062525-CPD-Officer-Rivera-Funeral-Colin-Boyle-3874.jpg?resize=706%2C471&ssl=1 706w, https://i0.wp.com/bcc-newspack.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/2025/06/062525-CPD-Officer-Rivera-Funeral-Colin-Boyle-3874.jpg?w=2000&ssl=1 2000w, https://i0.wp.com/bcc-newspack.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/2025/06/062525-CPD-Officer-Rivera-Funeral-Colin-Boyle-3874-1024x682.jpg?w=370&ssl=1 370w" sizes="(max-width: 780px) 100vw, 780px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Family watches following the funeral for fallen Chicago Police Officer Krystal Rivera at Living Word Christian Center, 7600 Roosevelt Rd., in Forest Park on June 25, 2025. Credit: Colin Boyle/Block Club Chicago</figcaption></figure>
<a href="https://blockclubchicago.org/2025/06/08/man-charged-in-police-chase-that-killed-officer-krystal-rivera/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener" data-wpel-link="internal">Rucker</a> and <a href="https://blockclubchicago.org/2025/06/22/second-man-charged-in-officer-krystal-riveras-accidental-shooting-death-police-say/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener" data-wpel-link="internal">Arnold</a> have been charged in connection to Rivera’s death, but attorneys for her family want to know more about the officer who pulled the trigger.
During Wednesday’s press conference, attorneys for the family raised concerns over Baker’s having six complaints on his record since his hiring in December 2021. The lengthy disciplinary record was first reported by the <a href="https://illinoisanswers.org/2025/06/27/chicago-cop-inadvertently-killed-partner-has-lengthy-disciplinary-record/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener external" data-wpel-link="external">Sun-Times and Illinois Answers project</a>.
“Release the full disciplinary file on this officer. We need to understand who he is, what his character was about, and what his conduct was like as a police officer,” Romanucci said.
The attorneys on Wednesday flagged reports that, just weeks in to the officer’s probation in 2022, the officer “flashed a gun under his waistband to a woman he had been talking to personally, while she was on a date with another man” and that there was also a “CPD record of a domestic violence complaint that was never pursued.”
Romanucci pointed out that the <a href="https://www.usmarshals.gov/resources/forms/lautenberg-amendment" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener external" data-wpel-link="external">Lautenberg Amendment</a> makes it a felony for someone convicted of a misdemeanor crime of domestic violence “to ship, transport, possess, or receive firearms or ammunition,” according to the U.S. Marshals Service.
“It is a career-ending prohibition on firearm possession, with a domestic violence conviction. And that can be a misdemeanor or a felony,” Romanucci said.
Last week, a judge barred the release of video and other materials related to the incident, <a href="https://www.chicagotribune.com/2025/06/24/judge-bars-release-of-video-officer-rivera/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener external" data-wpel-link="external">the Tribune reported.</a> The move came after prosecutors asked that the information be shielded from public records requests.
“We know that the Chicago Police Department has enough influence that if they asked the filing party — the state’s attorney — to offer a modification of it, it could be done. So it depends on what they ask for,” Romanucci said.
The family viewed body camera footage of the shooting after the fatal shooting but it left them with more questions than answers, Romanucci said.
<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img data-recalc-dims="1" decoding="async" width="780" height="519" src="https://i0.wp.com/bcc-newspack.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/2025/06/062525-CPD-Officer-Rivera-Funeral-Colin-Boyle-3005-1024x682.jpg?resize=780%2C519&ssl=1" alt="" class="wp-image-893881" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/bcc-newspack.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/2025/06/062525-CPD-Officer-Rivera-Funeral-Colin-Boyle-3005.jpg?resize=1024%2C682&ssl=1 1024w, https://i0.wp.com/bcc-newspack.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/2025/06/062525-CPD-Officer-Rivera-Funeral-Colin-Boyle-3005.jpg?resize=300%2C200&ssl=1 300w, https://i0.wp.com/bcc-newspack.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/2025/06/062525-CPD-Officer-Rivera-Funeral-Colin-Boyle-3005.jpg?resize=768%2C512&ssl=1 768w, https://i0.wp.com/bcc-newspack.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/2025/06/062525-CPD-Officer-Rivera-Funeral-Colin-Boyle-3005.jpg?resize=1536%2C1024&ssl=1 1536w, https://i0.wp.com/bcc-newspack.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/2025/06/062525-CPD-Officer-Rivera-Funeral-Colin-Boyle-3005.jpg?resize=1200%2C800&ssl=1 1200w, https://i0.wp.com/bcc-newspack.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/2025/06/062525-CPD-Officer-Rivera-Funeral-Colin-Boyle-3005.jpg?resize=780%2C520&ssl=1 780w, https://i0.wp.com/bcc-newspack.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/2025/06/062525-CPD-Officer-Rivera-Funeral-Colin-Boyle-3005.jpg?resize=400%2C267&ssl=1 400w, https://i0.wp.com/bcc-newspack.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/2025/06/062525-CPD-Officer-Rivera-Funeral-Colin-Boyle-3005.jpg?resize=706%2C471&ssl=1 706w, https://i0.wp.com/bcc-newspack.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/2025/06/062525-CPD-Officer-Rivera-Funeral-Colin-Boyle-3005.jpg?w=2000&ssl=1 2000w, https://i0.wp.com/bcc-newspack.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/2025/06/062525-CPD-Officer-Rivera-Funeral-Colin-Boyle-3005-1024x682.jpg?w=370&ssl=1 370w" sizes="(max-width: 780px) 100vw, 780px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">A memorial button is worn before the funeral for fallen Chicago Police Officer Krystal Rivera at Living Word Christian Center, 7600 Roosevelt Rd., in Forest Park on June 25, 2025. Credit: Colin Boyle/Block Club Chicago</figcaption></figure>
“As her mother, I’m asking for complete transparency. I need to understand what happened that night. I need to know the truth,” Yolanda Rivera said Wednesday.
Officers, family and friends shared stories of Rivera’s willingness to help other people, her sense of humor and fashion and her skill at taking guns off the streets during her <a href="https://blockclubchicago.org/2025/06/25/hundreds-pack-funeral-for-slain-chicago-police-officer-krystal-rivera-she-gave-everything/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener" data-wpel-link="internal">June 25 funeral in suburban Forest Park</a>. 
Her aunt, Marisa Mercado, shared stories of Rivera’s athleticism, including her love of basketball, her unforgettable laugh and how she always “jumped in to help” at family events at the funeral. The night of June 5, Rivera’s grandmother prepared the late officer’s favorite dish: alcapurrias, Mercado said. The Puerto Rican fritters are made with plantains and yautía, which is similar to yuca, that are filled with ground beef.
“Krystal was like a daughter to [my mother]. They spent so much time together,” Mercado said.
Mercado told mourners that Rivera’s grandmother thanks God for the time she was able to spend with Rivera on her last night alive.
“Sitting with her. Cooking for her. Hugging her tightly and saying, ‘I love you, Krystal.’ Those were her last words. ’Te quiero mucho, hija. Cuídate,’” Mercado said.
That night, Rivera responded to Mercado’s mother by saying, “I love you more, grandma,” Mercado said.
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<title>Chicago Faith Leaders Urge Lawmakers To Reject Trump’s ‘Big Beautiful Bill’ Ahead Of Final Vote</title>
<link>https://blockclubchicago.org/2025/07/02/chicago-faith-leaders-urge-lawmakers-to-reject-trumps-big-beautiful-bill-ahead-of-final-vote/</link>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[Quinn Myers]]></dc:creator>
<pubDate>Wed, 02 Jul 2025 18:49:51 +0000</pubDate>
<category><![CDATA[Downtown]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Loop]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Featured]]></category>
<guid isPermaLink="false">https://blockclubchicago.org/?p=896384</guid>
<description><![CDATA[<figure><img width="1024" height="682" src="https://i0.wp.com/bcc-newspack.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/2025/07/faithBBB.jpg?fit=1024%2C682&ssl=1" class="attachment-rss-image-size size-rss-image-size wp-post-image" alt="" decoding="async" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/bcc-newspack.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/2025/07/faithBBB.jpg?w=2000&ssl=1 2000w, https://i0.wp.com/bcc-newspack.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/2025/07/faithBBB.jpg?resize=300%2C200&ssl=1 300w, https://i0.wp.com/bcc-newspack.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/2025/07/faithBBB.jpg?resize=1024%2C682&ssl=1 1024w, https://i0.wp.com/bcc-newspack.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/2025/07/faithBBB.jpg?resize=768%2C512&ssl=1 768w, https://i0.wp.com/bcc-newspack.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/2025/07/faithBBB.jpg?resize=1536%2C1024&ssl=1 1536w, https://i0.wp.com/bcc-newspack.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/2025/07/faithBBB.jpg?resize=1200%2C800&ssl=1 1200w, https://i0.wp.com/bcc-newspack.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/2025/07/faithBBB.jpg?resize=780%2C520&ssl=1 780w, https://i0.wp.com/bcc-newspack.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/2025/07/faithBBB.jpg?resize=400%2C267&ssl=1 400w, https://i0.wp.com/bcc-newspack.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/2025/07/faithBBB.jpg?resize=706%2C471&ssl=1 706w, https://i0.wp.com/bcc-newspack.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/2025/07/faithBBB.jpg?fit=1024%2C682&ssl=1&w=370 370w" sizes="(max-width: 34.9rem) calc(100vw - 2rem), (max-width: 53rem) calc(8 * (100vw / 12)), (min-width: 53rem) calc(6 * (100vw / 12)), 100vw" /></figure>The U.S. Senate on Tuesday narrowly passed the legislation, which would strip Medicaid coverage from millions of Americans and slash SNAP funding. “It is reverse Robin Hood,” one pastor said.]]></description>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[<figure><img width="1024" height="682" src="https://i0.wp.com/bcc-newspack.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/2025/07/faithBBB.jpg?fit=1024%2C682&ssl=1" class="attachment-rss-image-size size-rss-image-size wp-post-image" alt="" decoding="async" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/bcc-newspack.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/2025/07/faithBBB.jpg?w=2000&ssl=1 2000w, https://i0.wp.com/bcc-newspack.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/2025/07/faithBBB.jpg?resize=300%2C200&ssl=1 300w, https://i0.wp.com/bcc-newspack.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/2025/07/faithBBB.jpg?resize=1024%2C682&ssl=1 1024w, https://i0.wp.com/bcc-newspack.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/2025/07/faithBBB.jpg?resize=768%2C512&ssl=1 768w, https://i0.wp.com/bcc-newspack.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/2025/07/faithBBB.jpg?resize=1536%2C1024&ssl=1 1536w, https://i0.wp.com/bcc-newspack.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/2025/07/faithBBB.jpg?resize=1200%2C800&ssl=1 1200w, https://i0.wp.com/bcc-newspack.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/2025/07/faithBBB.jpg?resize=780%2C520&ssl=1 780w, https://i0.wp.com/bcc-newspack.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/2025/07/faithBBB.jpg?resize=400%2C267&ssl=1 400w, https://i0.wp.com/bcc-newspack.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/2025/07/faithBBB.jpg?resize=706%2C471&ssl=1 706w, https://i0.wp.com/bcc-newspack.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/2025/07/faithBBB.jpg?fit=1024%2C682&ssl=1&w=370 370w" sizes="(max-width: 34.9rem) calc(100vw - 2rem), (max-width: 53rem) calc(8 * (100vw / 12)), (min-width: 53rem) calc(6 * (100vw / 12)), 100vw" /></figure>
DOWNTOWN — A coalition of faith leaders railed against President Donald Trump’s “Big Beautiful Bill” during a rally Wednesday at Federal Plaza, imploring federal lawmakers to reject the legislation during a potential final vote this week.
Pastors from across the South and West sides were joined Downtown by several state lawmakers and a few dozen attendees to denounce the bill as “legislative genocide” that would strip poor Chicagoans and people across the country of vital public services. 
Dubbed the “One Big Beautiful Bill Act” by Trump and his congressional supporters, the legislation includes trillions of dollars in tax cuts, including making permanent those passed during Trump’s first term in 2017.
Backers argue the tax breaks would lead to further spending and investment to stimulate the economy. But the Senate version of the bill would add $3.4 trillion to the national debt over the next decade, according to the <a href="https://www.cbo.gov/publication/61537" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener external" data-wpel-link="external">nonpartisan Congressional Budget Office</a>. 
The legislation as it currently stands would also result in around $1 trillion in cuts to Medicaid, as well as <a href="https://www.cbpp.org/research/food-assistance/the-supplemental-nutrition-assistance-program-snap" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener external" data-wpel-link="external">$287 billion in proposed cuts over a 10-year period</a> to the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, or SNAP, the largest anti-hunger program in the country.
Following passage in the Senate, the massive, multi-faceted bill is now being debated in the House of Representatives for final approval. Republicans hope to deliver it to Trump for his signature by Independence Day on Friday, although that timeline could be delayed due to some opposition from conservative House members.
At Wednesday’s Downtown rally, attendees called on lawmakers to “vote their conscience” and strike down the bill this week. Pastors and several state lawmakers argued the legislation’s passage would cause millions to lose necessary benefits — and possibly their lives.
“This bill is intended to create a situation where we have under-resourced schools, where we have underfunded hospital systems, where we have people who are permanently underemployed so that they can create a permanent underclass. That is not the America that we have chosen to live in,” said State Rep. Kam Buckner, whose district stretches from the Gold Coast to the Southeast Side. 
“This is a love letter to billionaires, and it’s a foreclosure notice to the rest of us.”
<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img data-recalc-dims="1" decoding="async" width="780" height="519" src="https://i0.wp.com/bcc-newspack.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/2025/07/faithBBB_2-1024x682.jpg?resize=780%2C519&ssl=1" alt="" class="wp-image-896381" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/bcc-newspack.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/2025/07/faithBBB_2.jpg?resize=1024%2C682&ssl=1 1024w, https://i0.wp.com/bcc-newspack.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/2025/07/faithBBB_2.jpg?resize=300%2C200&ssl=1 300w, https://i0.wp.com/bcc-newspack.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/2025/07/faithBBB_2.jpg?resize=768%2C512&ssl=1 768w, https://i0.wp.com/bcc-newspack.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/2025/07/faithBBB_2.jpg?resize=1536%2C1024&ssl=1 1536w, https://i0.wp.com/bcc-newspack.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/2025/07/faithBBB_2.jpg?resize=1200%2C800&ssl=1 1200w, https://i0.wp.com/bcc-newspack.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/2025/07/faithBBB_2.jpg?resize=780%2C520&ssl=1 780w, https://i0.wp.com/bcc-newspack.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/2025/07/faithBBB_2.jpg?resize=400%2C267&ssl=1 400w, https://i0.wp.com/bcc-newspack.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/2025/07/faithBBB_2.jpg?resize=706%2C471&ssl=1 706w, https://i0.wp.com/bcc-newspack.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/2025/07/faithBBB_2.jpg?w=2000&ssl=1 2000w, https://i0.wp.com/bcc-newspack.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/2025/07/faithBBB_2-1024x682.jpg?w=370&ssl=1 370w" sizes="(max-width: 780px) 100vw, 780px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Father Michael Pfleger of Saint Sabina Church speaks at a rally against President Donald Trump’s “One Big Beautiful Bill” which passed the U.S. Senate on Tuesday. Credit: Quinn Myers/Block Club Chicago</figcaption></figure>
Wednesday’s rally focused mostly on proposed cuts to Medicaid and SNAP benefits. 
Under current SNAP rules, able-bodied adults without dependents are subject to work requirements that stipulate they must work 20 hours a week, or only receive three months of benefits within a three-year period. Trump’s bill would expand that requirement to include older adults ages 55-64, among other tweaks.
In Illinois, 205,000 people would be at risk of losing some amount of SNAP benefits, <a href="https://www.cbpp.org/research/food-assistance/senate-agriculture-committees-revised-work-requirement-would-risk-taking" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener external" data-wpel-link="external">according to estimates</a> from the Center on Budget and Policy Priorities on the latest version of the bill.
The Rev. Michael Pfleger, the outspoken priest of St. Sabina Catholic Church in Auburn Gresham, said those cuts would directly affect <a href="https://blockclubchicago.org/2024/10/15/st-sabina-church-reopens-auburn-gresham-food-pantry-after-catholic-charities-closed-it/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener" data-wpel-link="internal">a food pantry his parish runs on 79th Street</a>.
He also called out specific House Republicans from Illinois and urged them to “vote no.” 
“When the SNAP cuts and the Medicaid cuts go through, we will turn away possibly 300-400 people a week that we can no longer feed,” Pfleger said. “U.S. Representatives Darin LaHood, Mary Miller and Michael Bost — did you hear me? People will die because of your vote. If you have any conscience left, vote no and save lives.”
Several pastors on Wednesday said the “Big Beautiful Bill” was a thinly veiled plan to boost the profits of big corporations and bank accounts of wealthy Americans on the backs of working people.
That includes proposed cuts to Medicaid, which could lead to 11.8 million more Americans becoming uninsured by 2034, <a href="https://www.kff.org/medicaid/issue-brief/allocating-cbos-estimates-of-federal-medicaid-spending-reductions-across-the-states-senate-reconciliation-bill/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener external" data-wpel-link="external">according to the Congressional Budget Office</a>. Those cuts would have a direct impact on safety-net hospitals in Chicago, <a href="https://blockclubchicago.org/2025/07/01/chicagos-safety-net-hospitals-cannot-survive-trump-cuts-danny-davis-health-care-leaders-warn/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener" data-wpel-link="internal">local leaders warned this week</a>.
“It is reverse Robin Hood. It is taking from the poor and giving to the rich, and it is one of the largest transfers of wealth from the bottom to the top in American history,” said Marshall Hatch, a pastor at West Garfield Park’s New Mount Pilgrim Missionary Baptist Church.
“Stop this big, beautiful ‘Kill Bill,’ because that’s exactly what it’s going to do. It’s going to kill millions of Americans, and the blood will be on your hands,” added the Rev. Cy Fields of the New Landmark Baptist Church in East Garfield Park.
As of Wednesday afternoon, it was not clear when a final vote on the “Big Beautiful Bill” could take place and if notable changes would be necessary from the Senate version to win House support. The conservative House Freedom Caucus released a memo Wednesday criticizing aspects of the bill, <a href="https://www.politico.com/live-updates/2025/07/02/congress/freedom-caucus-memo-gop-megabill-00437375" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener external" data-wpel-link="external">according to Politico</a>.
In addition to cuts to Medicaid and SNAP programs, the legislation also includes tens of billions of dollars for border wall construction and immigration enforcement operations, <a href="https://www.cbsnews.com/news/whats-in-trump-big-beautiful-bill-senate-version/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener external" data-wpel-link="external">according to CBS News</a>.
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<title>‘The Bear’ Is Coming Back For A 5th Season</title>
<link>https://blockclubchicago.org/2025/07/02/the-bear-is-coming-back-for-a-5th-season/</link>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[Leen Yassine]]></dc:creator>
<pubDate>Wed, 02 Jul 2025 18:31:33 +0000</pubDate>
<category><![CDATA[Arts & Culture]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Citywide]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[TV]]></category>
<guid isPermaLink="false">https://blockclubchicago.org/?p=896329</guid>
<description><![CDATA[<figure><img width="1024" height="646" src="https://i0.wp.com/bcc-newspack.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/2025/05/The-Bear-S3-Tina.png?fit=1024%2C646&ssl=1" class="attachment-rss-image-size size-rss-image-size wp-post-image" alt="" decoding="async" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/bcc-newspack.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/2025/05/The-Bear-S3-Tina.png?w=2224&ssl=1 2224w, https://i0.wp.com/bcc-newspack.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/2025/05/The-Bear-S3-Tina.png?resize=300%2C189&ssl=1 300w, https://i0.wp.com/bcc-newspack.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/2025/05/The-Bear-S3-Tina.png?resize=1024%2C646&ssl=1 1024w, https://i0.wp.com/bcc-newspack.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/2025/05/The-Bear-S3-Tina.png?resize=768%2C484&ssl=1 768w, https://i0.wp.com/bcc-newspack.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/2025/05/The-Bear-S3-Tina.png?resize=1536%2C968&ssl=1 1536w, https://i0.wp.com/bcc-newspack.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/2025/05/The-Bear-S3-Tina.png?resize=2048%2C1291&ssl=1 2048w, https://i0.wp.com/bcc-newspack.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/2025/05/The-Bear-S3-Tina.png?resize=1200%2C756&ssl=1 1200w, https://i0.wp.com/bcc-newspack.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/2025/05/The-Bear-S3-Tina.png?resize=2000%2C1261&ssl=1 2000w, https://i0.wp.com/bcc-newspack.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/2025/05/The-Bear-S3-Tina.png?resize=780%2C492&ssl=1 780w, https://i0.wp.com/bcc-newspack.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/2025/05/The-Bear-S3-Tina.png?resize=400%2C252&ssl=1 400w, https://i0.wp.com/bcc-newspack.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/2025/05/The-Bear-S3-Tina.png?resize=706%2C445&ssl=1 706w, https://i0.wp.com/bcc-newspack.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/2025/05/The-Bear-S3-Tina.png?fit=1024%2C646&ssl=1&w=370 370w" sizes="(max-width: 34.9rem) calc(100vw - 2rem), (max-width: 53rem) calc(8 * (100vw / 12)), (min-width: 53rem) calc(6 * (100vw / 12)), 100vw" /></figure>Just a week after its fourth season dropped, "The Bear" has been renewed once again.]]></description>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[<figure><img width="1024" height="646" src="https://i0.wp.com/bcc-newspack.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/2025/05/The-Bear-S3-Tina.png?fit=1024%2C646&ssl=1" class="attachment-rss-image-size size-rss-image-size wp-post-image" alt="" decoding="async" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/bcc-newspack.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/2025/05/The-Bear-S3-Tina.png?w=2224&ssl=1 2224w, https://i0.wp.com/bcc-newspack.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/2025/05/The-Bear-S3-Tina.png?resize=300%2C189&ssl=1 300w, https://i0.wp.com/bcc-newspack.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/2025/05/The-Bear-S3-Tina.png?resize=1024%2C646&ssl=1 1024w, https://i0.wp.com/bcc-newspack.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/2025/05/The-Bear-S3-Tina.png?resize=768%2C484&ssl=1 768w, https://i0.wp.com/bcc-newspack.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/2025/05/The-Bear-S3-Tina.png?resize=1536%2C968&ssl=1 1536w, https://i0.wp.com/bcc-newspack.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/2025/05/The-Bear-S3-Tina.png?resize=2048%2C1291&ssl=1 2048w, https://i0.wp.com/bcc-newspack.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/2025/05/The-Bear-S3-Tina.png?resize=1200%2C756&ssl=1 1200w, https://i0.wp.com/bcc-newspack.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/2025/05/The-Bear-S3-Tina.png?resize=2000%2C1261&ssl=1 2000w, https://i0.wp.com/bcc-newspack.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/2025/05/The-Bear-S3-Tina.png?resize=780%2C492&ssl=1 780w, https://i0.wp.com/bcc-newspack.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/2025/05/The-Bear-S3-Tina.png?resize=400%2C252&ssl=1 400w, https://i0.wp.com/bcc-newspack.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/2025/05/The-Bear-S3-Tina.png?resize=706%2C445&ssl=1 706w, https://i0.wp.com/bcc-newspack.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/2025/05/The-Bear-S3-Tina.png?fit=1024%2C646&ssl=1&w=370 370w" sizes="(max-width: 34.9rem) calc(100vw - 2rem), (max-width: 53rem) calc(8 * (100vw / 12)), (min-width: 53rem) calc(6 * (100vw / 12)), 100vw" /></figure>
CHICAGO — Just a week after its season four debut, FX announced its Chicago-based, Emmy Award-winning show “The Bear” has been renewed for a fifth season.
In its latest season, which dropped on June 25, Carmen “Carmy” Berzatto (Jeremy Allen White) and his crew are contending with an unimpressed review from the Chicago Tribune and racing against the clock to keep their new fine dining restaurant afloat.
As Carmy, Sydney Adamu (Ayo Edebiri) and Richard “Richie” Jerimovich (Ebon Moss-Bachrach) try not only to survive but to push the restaurant, named The Bear, to the next level, they must adjust, overcome and reevaluate their priorities.
Carmy continues attending Al-Anon meetings while Sydney contends with a competitive offer to helm her own restaurant and Richie struggles with feelings of inadequacy in both the restaurant and his personal life. Through it all, The Bear team must decide what’s worth holding onto.
“‘The Bear’ continues to be a fan favorite worldwide and their response to this season — as seen through incredibly high viewership — has been as spectacular as any of its previous seasons,” FX Chairman John Landgraf said in a press release. “Year-in and year-out, Chris Storer, the producers, cast and crew make ‘The Bear’ one of the best shows on television, and we are excited that they will continue to tell this magnificent story.”
The series also stars Abby Elliot as Natalie “Sugar” Berzatto, Lionel Boyce as pastry chef Marcus Brooks, Liza Colón-Zayas as Tina Marrero and real-life chef Matty Matheson as Neil Fak. Oliver Platt and Molly Gordon have recurring roles as Uncle Jimmy and Claire Dunlap, respectively.
“The Bear” has <a href="https://blockclubchicago.org/2023/10/31/yes-chef-this-bear-inspired-food-tour-avoids-chicagos-culinary-cliches/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener" data-wpel-link="internal">spotlighted a variety of local eateries</a>, including Alpana in season four, Publican Quality Meats, Lao Peng You, Pizza Lobo, Pequod’s Pizza, Margie’s Candies and Roeser’s Bakery, which <a href="https://blockclubchicago.org/2023/08/25/the-bear-effect-chicago-restaurants-featured-in-show-see-traffic-skyrocket/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener" data-wpel-link="internal">saw its business skyrocket</a>.
<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img data-recalc-dims="1" decoding="async" width="780" height="520" src="https://i0.wp.com/bcc-newspack.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/2025/05/Screenshot-2025-05-13-at-2.07.27%E2%80%AFPM-1024x683.png?resize=780%2C520&ssl=1" alt="" class="wp-image-876183" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/bcc-newspack.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/2025/05/Screenshot-2025-05-13-at-2.07.27%E2%80%AFPM.png?resize=1024%2C683&ssl=1 1024w, https://i0.wp.com/bcc-newspack.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/2025/05/Screenshot-2025-05-13-at-2.07.27%E2%80%AFPM.png?resize=300%2C200&ssl=1 300w, https://i0.wp.com/bcc-newspack.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/2025/05/Screenshot-2025-05-13-at-2.07.27%E2%80%AFPM.png?resize=768%2C512&ssl=1 768w, https://i0.wp.com/bcc-newspack.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/2025/05/Screenshot-2025-05-13-at-2.07.27%E2%80%AFPM.png?resize=1536%2C1024&ssl=1 1536w, https://i0.wp.com/bcc-newspack.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/2025/05/Screenshot-2025-05-13-at-2.07.27%E2%80%AFPM.png?resize=2048%2C1366&ssl=1 2048w, https://i0.wp.com/bcc-newspack.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/2025/05/Screenshot-2025-05-13-at-2.07.27%E2%80%AFPM.png?resize=1200%2C800&ssl=1 1200w, https://i0.wp.com/bcc-newspack.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/2025/05/Screenshot-2025-05-13-at-2.07.27%E2%80%AFPM.png?resize=2000%2C1334&ssl=1 2000w, https://i0.wp.com/bcc-newspack.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/2025/05/Screenshot-2025-05-13-at-2.07.27%E2%80%AFPM.png?resize=780%2C520&ssl=1 780w, https://i0.wp.com/bcc-newspack.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/2025/05/Screenshot-2025-05-13-at-2.07.27%E2%80%AFPM.png?resize=400%2C267&ssl=1 400w, https://i0.wp.com/bcc-newspack.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/2025/05/Screenshot-2025-05-13-at-2.07.27%E2%80%AFPM.png?resize=706%2C471&ssl=1 706w, https://i0.wp.com/bcc-newspack.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/2025/05/Screenshot-2025-05-13-at-2.07.27%E2%80%AFPM-1024x683.png?w=370&ssl=1 370w" sizes="(max-width: 780px) 100vw, 780px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Matty Matheson as Neil Fak in the FX on Hulu series “The Bear.” Credit: Provided/FX</figcaption></figure>
Through its four-season run, “The Bear” has racked up 21 Emmy Award wins, the most of any show this decade. It most recently won 11 Emmy Awards for its second season, the most wins for a comedy series ever in a single year.
The show has also won and been nominated for the Golden Globe Awards, Screen Actors Guild Awards, Peabody Awards, Critics Choice Awards, NAACP Image Awards and Independent Spirit Awards, among others.
“The Bear” was created by Christopher Storer, who was raised in suburban Park Ridge. Storer previously said <a href="https://www.esquire.com/entertainment/tv/a40681092/the-bear-creator-christopher-storer-interview/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener external" data-wpel-link="external">the show is inspired by Mr. Beef owner Chris Zucchero</a>.
Storer also serves as an executive producer alongside Josh Senior, Joanna Calo, Cooper Wehde, Tyson Bidner, Matty Matheson, Hiro Murai and Rene Gube. Storer’s sister, real-life chef Courtney Storer, is also a co-executive producer and culinary producer for the show.
All seasons of “The Bear” are available to steam on Hulu and Hulu on Disney+.
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<title>Man Shot On Red Line Train Downtown After Fight Breaks Out</title>
<link>https://blockclubchicago.org/2025/07/02/man-shot-on-cta-red-line-train-downtown-after-fight-breaks-out/</link>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[Mack Liederman]]></dc:creator>
<pubDate>Wed, 02 Jul 2025 14:17:24 +0000</pubDate>
<category><![CDATA[Downtown]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Transportation]]></category>
<guid isPermaLink="false">https://blockclubchicago.org/?p=896289</guid>
<description><![CDATA[<figure><img width="1024" height="683" src="https://i0.wp.com/bcc-newspack.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/2020/05/CTA_Roosevelt-ColinBoyle-1.jpg?fit=1024%2C683&ssl=1" class="attachment-rss-image-size size-rss-image-size wp-post-image" alt="" decoding="async" sizes="(max-width: 34.9rem) calc(100vw - 2rem), (max-width: 53rem) calc(8 * (100vw / 12)), (min-width: 53rem) calc(6 * (100vw / 12)), 100vw" /></figure>The shooter got off the train and fled south on State Street early Wednesday, police said. No one is in custody.]]></description>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[<figure><img width="1024" height="683" src="https://i0.wp.com/bcc-newspack.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/2020/05/CTA_Roosevelt-ColinBoyle-1.jpg?fit=1024%2C683&ssl=1" class="attachment-rss-image-size size-rss-image-size wp-post-image" alt="" decoding="async" sizes="(max-width: 34.9rem) calc(100vw - 2rem), (max-width: 53rem) calc(8 * (100vw / 12)), (min-width: 53rem) calc(6 * (100vw / 12)), 100vw" /></figure>
THE LOOP — A 29-year-old man was shot and critically injured aboard a Red Line train headed south through Downtown early Wednesday morning, police said.
Around 4:30 a.m. Wednesday, the man “became involved” in an argument that turned physical with another man as they rode the Red Line near the Roosevelt Station in the 1100 block of South State Street, police said.
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As the fight escalated, the 29-year-old man was shot in his thigh and buttocks, police said. He was taken to Stroger Hospital in critical condition.
The suspected shooter got off the train and fled south on State Street, police said. No one is in custody.
Red Line trains going south to the 95th/Dan Ryan terminal were temporarily rerouted Wednesday morning to elevated tracks between the Fullerton and Cermak-Chinatown stops, according to the CTA.
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<title>As Lifeguard Who Shot Teens At Pool Resigns, Neighbors Want To Know Why Park District Hired Him </title>
<link>https://blockclubchicago.org/2025/07/02/as-lifeguard-who-shot-teens-at-pool-resigns-neighbors-want-to-know-why-park-district-hired-him/</link>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[Michael Liptrot]]></dc:creator>
<pubDate>Wed, 02 Jul 2025 14:10:00 +0000</pubDate>
<category><![CDATA[Austin, Garfield Park, North Lawndale]]></category>
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<category><![CDATA[North Lawndale]]></category>
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<description><![CDATA[<figure><img width="1024" height="666" src="https://i0.wp.com/bcc-newspack.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/2025/06/Blank-2000-x-1300-19-1.png?fit=1024%2C666&ssl=1" class="attachment-rss-image-size size-rss-image-size wp-post-image" alt="15-year-old Marjay Dotson (top left) was killed and 14-year-old Jeremy Herred was critically wounded when lifeguard Charles Leto, 55 , opened fire on the teens outside the Douglass Park pool last Thursday, police and prosecutors said. Leto also shot two dogs — and caused a SWAT response and school lockdowns — in 2023 but was not charged." decoding="async" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/bcc-newspack.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/2025/06/Blank-2000-x-1300-19-1.png?w=2000&ssl=1 2000w, https://i0.wp.com/bcc-newspack.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/2025/06/Blank-2000-x-1300-19-1.png?resize=300%2C195&ssl=1 300w, https://i0.wp.com/bcc-newspack.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/2025/06/Blank-2000-x-1300-19-1.png?resize=1024%2C666&ssl=1 1024w, https://i0.wp.com/bcc-newspack.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/2025/06/Blank-2000-x-1300-19-1.png?resize=768%2C499&ssl=1 768w, https://i0.wp.com/bcc-newspack.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/2025/06/Blank-2000-x-1300-19-1.png?resize=1536%2C998&ssl=1 1536w, https://i0.wp.com/bcc-newspack.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/2025/06/Blank-2000-x-1300-19-1.png?resize=1200%2C780&ssl=1 1200w, https://i0.wp.com/bcc-newspack.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/2025/06/Blank-2000-x-1300-19-1.png?resize=780%2C507&ssl=1 780w, https://i0.wp.com/bcc-newspack.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/2025/06/Blank-2000-x-1300-19-1.png?resize=400%2C260&ssl=1 400w, https://i0.wp.com/bcc-newspack.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/2025/06/Blank-2000-x-1300-19-1.png?resize=706%2C459&ssl=1 706w, https://i0.wp.com/bcc-newspack.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/2025/06/Blank-2000-x-1300-19-1.png?fit=1024%2C666&ssl=1&w=370 370w" sizes="(max-width: 34.9rem) calc(100vw - 2rem), (max-width: 53rem) calc(8 * (100vw / 12)), (min-width: 53rem) calc(6 * (100vw / 12)), 100vw" /></figure>Charles Leto, 55, is facing murder and attempted murder charges. At a Tuesday rally, neighbors questioned why he was hired by the Park District at all after shooting 2 dogs in 2023, prompting a SWAT response. ]]></description>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[<figure><img width="1024" height="666" src="https://i0.wp.com/bcc-newspack.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/2025/06/Blank-2000-x-1300-19-1.png?fit=1024%2C666&ssl=1" class="attachment-rss-image-size size-rss-image-size wp-post-image" alt="15-year-old Marjay Dotson (top left) was killed and 14-year-old Jeremy Herred was critically wounded when lifeguard Charles Leto, 55 , opened fire on the teens outside the Douglass Park pool last Thursday, police and prosecutors said. Leto also shot two dogs — and caused a SWAT response and school lockdowns — in 2023 but was not charged." decoding="async" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/bcc-newspack.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/2025/06/Blank-2000-x-1300-19-1.png?w=2000&ssl=1 2000w, https://i0.wp.com/bcc-newspack.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/2025/06/Blank-2000-x-1300-19-1.png?resize=300%2C195&ssl=1 300w, https://i0.wp.com/bcc-newspack.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/2025/06/Blank-2000-x-1300-19-1.png?resize=1024%2C666&ssl=1 1024w, https://i0.wp.com/bcc-newspack.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/2025/06/Blank-2000-x-1300-19-1.png?resize=768%2C499&ssl=1 768w, https://i0.wp.com/bcc-newspack.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/2025/06/Blank-2000-x-1300-19-1.png?resize=1536%2C998&ssl=1 1536w, https://i0.wp.com/bcc-newspack.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/2025/06/Blank-2000-x-1300-19-1.png?resize=1200%2C780&ssl=1 1200w, https://i0.wp.com/bcc-newspack.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/2025/06/Blank-2000-x-1300-19-1.png?resize=780%2C507&ssl=1 780w, https://i0.wp.com/bcc-newspack.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/2025/06/Blank-2000-x-1300-19-1.png?resize=400%2C260&ssl=1 400w, https://i0.wp.com/bcc-newspack.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/2025/06/Blank-2000-x-1300-19-1.png?resize=706%2C459&ssl=1 706w, https://i0.wp.com/bcc-newspack.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/2025/06/Blank-2000-x-1300-19-1.png?fit=1024%2C666&ssl=1&w=370 370w" sizes="(max-width: 34.9rem) calc(100vw - 2rem), (max-width: 53rem) calc(8 * (100vw / 12)), (min-width: 53rem) calc(6 * (100vw / 12)), 100vw" /></figure>
NORTH LAWNDALE — The lifeguard accused of fatally shooting a teenage boy and wounding another outside a West Side pool last week has resigned from his position and is banned from working at the Chicago Park District, officials said. 
Charles Leto resigned as of Tuesday and was placed on the Park District’s “Do Not Rehire List,” the district announced.
Leto was previously placed on unpaid emergency suspension Friday after he was arrested for <a href="https://blockclubchicago.org/2025/06/29/lifeguard-charged-with-killing-1-teen-wounding-another-in-west-side-pool-shooting/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener" data-wpel-link="internal">the fatal shooting of 15-year-old Marjay Dotson and wounding of 14-year-old Jeremy Herred</a>. The Park District said it had begun the process of terminating Leto’s employment, with him resigning in lieu of termination.
“This horrific act of violence has shaken us all, and we are committed to doing everything in our power to ensure that nothing like this ever happens again,” the Park District said in statement.
Earlier Tuesday, neighbors gathered for a rally at Douglass Park demanding accountability from the Park District, <a href="https://chicago.suntimes.com/crime/2025/07/01/chicago-park-district-douglass-park-charles-leto-lifeguard-shooting" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener external" data-wpel-link="external">the Sun-Times reported.</a> The Chi North Lawndale Chamber of Commerce circulated a petition demanding a public apology from the Park District, permanent security at Douglass Park, a plan for park staff, including an audit and cultural competency programming and mandatory background checks for all park staff in the city, according to the Sun-Times.
“We have received the petition circulated by the Chi North Lawndale Chamber of Commerce, and we look forward to meeting with petition organizers and stakeholders to address their concerns and work together toward accountability, healing, and lasting change,” the Park District said in a statement.
Neighbors have <a href="https://blockclubchicago.org/2025/06/30/lifeguard-who-shot-2-teens-at-douglass-park-previously-shot-2-dogs-in-lakeview-sources-say/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener" data-wpel-link="internal">spoken out about Leto</a>, saying he displayed a pattern of anger and violence leading up to Thursday’s shooting that should have prevented him from being hired by the Park District. 
The Douglass Park shooting is at least the second time in recent years Leto has fired his gun and claimed self-defense. In 2023, Leto shot two dogs in Lakeview, killing one and wounding another, according to former neighbors and a lawyer for one of the pool shooting victims. That shooting prompted an hours-long police SWAT standoff, resulting in lockdowns at local schools, <a href="https://blockclubchicago.org/2023/02/09/lakeview-neighbors-rattled-frustrated-after-man-shoots-2-off-leash-dogs-killing-1/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener" data-wpel-link="internal">Block Club reported at the time</a>.
“This is a disturbed individual with a pattern of violent behavior that never should have been hired by the Park District, let alone placed in [a] position to supervise or oversee children,” said Jeff Neslund, Herred’s attorney, in a statement. “Somebody has to take responsibility for hiring this loose cannon with his propensity for violence. The families that have been devastated by this shooting deserve an explanation.”
Leslie Balaz, a former neighbor of Leto, told Block Club that she experienced post traumatic stress disorder and feared for her dog’s safety while living in the same building as Leto after the shooting. She said she was allowed to break her lease and move out three months after the shooting. Upon learning that Leto was involved in the Douglass Park shooting, Balaz said she was shocked but not surprised.
“It’s like a carbon copy [of events] except this time he took the life of an innocent kid and possibly another,” Balaz said.
Leto was hired as a lifeguard in 2023, months after the shooting of the dogs in Lakeview, according to the Sun-Times.
In its statement, the Park District said Leto’s background screening during his hiring process “did not produce any issues that would prohibit employment by the District.”
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<post-id xmlns="com-wordpress:feed-additions:1">896293</post-id> </item>
<item>
<title>How The Shooting Star Collective Is Making Sure Disabled Drag Artists Have A Place To Shine</title>
<link>https://blockclubchicago.org/2025/07/02/how-the-shooting-star-collective-is-making-sure-disabled-drag-artists-have-a-place-to-shine/</link>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[Lindsay Eanet]]></dc:creator>
<pubDate>Wed, 02 Jul 2025 13:40:00 +0000</pubDate>
<category><![CDATA[Arts & Culture]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Proud City]]></category>
<guid isPermaLink="false">https://blockclubchicago.org/?p=894520</guid>
<description><![CDATA[<figure><img width="1024" height="575" src="https://i0.wp.com/bcc-newspack.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/2025/07/DRG1-1.jpg?fit=1024%2C575&ssl=1" class="attachment-rss-image-size size-rss-image-size wp-post-image" alt="Orion Hill, who performs as Georgia Rising, launched the Shooting Star Collective in April 2025 as a response to a need they saw in their community." decoding="async" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/bcc-newspack.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/2025/07/DRG1-1.jpg?w=2000&ssl=1 2000w, https://i0.wp.com/bcc-newspack.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/2025/07/DRG1-1.jpg?resize=300%2C169&ssl=1 300w, https://i0.wp.com/bcc-newspack.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/2025/07/DRG1-1.jpg?resize=1024%2C575&ssl=1 1024w, https://i0.wp.com/bcc-newspack.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/2025/07/DRG1-1.jpg?resize=768%2C432&ssl=1 768w, https://i0.wp.com/bcc-newspack.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/2025/07/DRG1-1.jpg?resize=1536%2C863&ssl=1 1536w, https://i0.wp.com/bcc-newspack.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/2025/07/DRG1-1.jpg?resize=1200%2C674&ssl=1 1200w, https://i0.wp.com/bcc-newspack.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/2025/07/DRG1-1.jpg?resize=900%2C506&ssl=1 900w, https://i0.wp.com/bcc-newspack.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/2025/07/DRG1-1.jpg?resize=450%2C253&ssl=1 450w, https://i0.wp.com/bcc-newspack.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/2025/07/DRG1-1.jpg?resize=200%2C113&ssl=1 200w, https://i0.wp.com/bcc-newspack.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/2025/07/DRG1-1.jpg?resize=100%2C56&ssl=1 100w, https://i0.wp.com/bcc-newspack.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/2025/07/DRG1-1.jpg?resize=780%2C438&ssl=1 780w, https://i0.wp.com/bcc-newspack.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/2025/07/DRG1-1.jpg?resize=400%2C225&ssl=1 400w, https://i0.wp.com/bcc-newspack.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/2025/07/DRG1-1.jpg?resize=706%2C397&ssl=1 706w, https://i0.wp.com/bcc-newspack.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/2025/07/DRG1-1.jpg?fit=1024%2C575&ssl=1&w=370 370w" sizes="(max-width: 34.9rem) calc(100vw - 2rem), (max-width: 53rem) calc(8 * (100vw / 12)), (min-width: 53rem) calc(6 * (100vw / 12)), 100vw" /></figure>The newly formed collective helps disabled drag performers organize for more venue accessibility and health precautions. ]]></description>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[<figure><img width="1024" height="575" src="https://i0.wp.com/bcc-newspack.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/2025/07/DRG1-1.jpg?fit=1024%2C575&ssl=1" class="attachment-rss-image-size size-rss-image-size wp-post-image" alt="Orion Hill, who performs as Georgia Rising, launched the Shooting Star Collective in April 2025 as a response to a need they saw in their community." decoding="async" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/bcc-newspack.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/2025/07/DRG1-1.jpg?w=2000&ssl=1 2000w, https://i0.wp.com/bcc-newspack.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/2025/07/DRG1-1.jpg?resize=300%2C169&ssl=1 300w, https://i0.wp.com/bcc-newspack.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/2025/07/DRG1-1.jpg?resize=1024%2C575&ssl=1 1024w, https://i0.wp.com/bcc-newspack.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/2025/07/DRG1-1.jpg?resize=768%2C432&ssl=1 768w, https://i0.wp.com/bcc-newspack.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/2025/07/DRG1-1.jpg?resize=1536%2C863&ssl=1 1536w, https://i0.wp.com/bcc-newspack.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/2025/07/DRG1-1.jpg?resize=1200%2C674&ssl=1 1200w, https://i0.wp.com/bcc-newspack.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/2025/07/DRG1-1.jpg?resize=900%2C506&ssl=1 900w, https://i0.wp.com/bcc-newspack.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/2025/07/DRG1-1.jpg?resize=450%2C253&ssl=1 450w, https://i0.wp.com/bcc-newspack.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/2025/07/DRG1-1.jpg?resize=200%2C113&ssl=1 200w, https://i0.wp.com/bcc-newspack.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/2025/07/DRG1-1.jpg?resize=100%2C56&ssl=1 100w, https://i0.wp.com/bcc-newspack.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/2025/07/DRG1-1.jpg?resize=780%2C438&ssl=1 780w, https://i0.wp.com/bcc-newspack.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/2025/07/DRG1-1.jpg?resize=400%2C225&ssl=1 400w, https://i0.wp.com/bcc-newspack.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/2025/07/DRG1-1.jpg?resize=706%2C397&ssl=1 706w, https://i0.wp.com/bcc-newspack.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/2025/07/DRG1-1.jpg?fit=1024%2C575&ssl=1&w=370 370w" sizes="(max-width: 34.9rem) calc(100vw - 2rem), (max-width: 53rem) calc(8 * (100vw / 12)), (min-width: 53rem) calc(6 * (100vw / 12)), 100vw" /></figure>
CHICAGO — When we see a shooting star, it’s often not the star itself that is visible, but rather the space debris that falls fast enough to be seen. With enough momentum, it can make an impact and create a sight that is spectacular. 
That phenomenon inspired the name of Shooting Star, a new collective supporting Chicago’s disabled drag artists. 
Orion Hill, who performs as Georgia Rising, launched the collective in April as a response to a need they saw in their community. As venues returned to full programming following COVID-19 pandemic-related restrictions, they weren’t as forthcoming about accessibility or prioritizing access needs, Hill said.
“I felt a responsibility as someone who knew a lot of disabled drag performers,” Hill said. “I wanted to bring them together in a community where they can share ideas and resources.”
The collective now has nearly two dozen performers. One of the performers who felt compelled to join after seeing the initial Instagram post was Shane Fosse, who performs as Neurotica Lush. 
“I have put on COVID-cautious shows in the city before, and there’s a need for more of that,” Fosse said. “It seemed like a good place to help out … people who were looking for similar programs and involvement and community. Even if we weren’t putting anything on, it’s a space to connect with other drag performers who are impacted by navigating similar challenges.”
Although Shooting Star is open to all, so far the collective is entirely disabled performers, Hill said. 
“I’m so grateful it’s predominantly disabled artists participating and bringing forth ideas,” Hill said. “We know from our own experiences how we can help each other in the scene. We’ve had a lot of different orgs reach out and say, ‘We’re really excited about the possibilities,’ so I’ve been really touched by the kindness and the generosity. I don’t think I expected it as someone who is still pretty new to organizing to have that much forthright support.”
<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img data-recalc-dims="1" decoding="async" width="780" height="487" src="https://i0.wp.com/bcc-newspack.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/2025/07/Screenshot-2025-07-01-at-2.21.20%E2%80%AFPM-1024x639.png?resize=780%2C487&ssl=1" alt="An Instagram post announcing the April 2025 launch of Shooting Star Collective." class="wp-image-896094" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/bcc-newspack.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/2025/07/Screenshot-2025-07-01-at-2.21.20%E2%80%AFPM.png?resize=1024%2C639&ssl=1 1024w, https://i0.wp.com/bcc-newspack.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/2025/07/Screenshot-2025-07-01-at-2.21.20%E2%80%AFPM.png?resize=300%2C187&ssl=1 300w, https://i0.wp.com/bcc-newspack.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/2025/07/Screenshot-2025-07-01-at-2.21.20%E2%80%AFPM.png?resize=768%2C479&ssl=1 768w, https://i0.wp.com/bcc-newspack.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/2025/07/Screenshot-2025-07-01-at-2.21.20%E2%80%AFPM.png?resize=1536%2C958&ssl=1 1536w, https://i0.wp.com/bcc-newspack.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/2025/07/Screenshot-2025-07-01-at-2.21.20%E2%80%AFPM.png?resize=1200%2C749&ssl=1 1200w, https://i0.wp.com/bcc-newspack.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/2025/07/Screenshot-2025-07-01-at-2.21.20%E2%80%AFPM.png?resize=780%2C487&ssl=1 780w, https://i0.wp.com/bcc-newspack.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/2025/07/Screenshot-2025-07-01-at-2.21.20%E2%80%AFPM.png?resize=400%2C250&ssl=1 400w, https://i0.wp.com/bcc-newspack.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/2025/07/Screenshot-2025-07-01-at-2.21.20%E2%80%AFPM.png?resize=706%2C441&ssl=1 706w, https://i0.wp.com/bcc-newspack.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/2025/07/Screenshot-2025-07-01-at-2.21.20%E2%80%AFPM.png?w=2000&ssl=1 2000w, https://i0.wp.com/bcc-newspack.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/2025/07/Screenshot-2025-07-01-at-2.21.20%E2%80%AFPM-1024x639.png?w=370&ssl=1 370w" sizes="(max-width: 780px) 100vw, 780px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">An Instagram post announcing the April 2025 launch of Shooting Star Collective. Credit: Instagram</figcaption></figure>
Creating COVID-conscious performances and spaces is a core aspect of Shooting Star’s work. People don’t realize how much time, energy and money it can take for performers to recover from a COVID infection, factoring in time away for quarantining and recovery and the lost income from missing performances, Hill said.
“People think it’s more of a silent illness that doesn’t have any repercussions, but it has so many in the way that we are healing and returning back to the scene,” they said. “Some people feel like they can’t really return to the scene again. It’s something that can really take you out.”
In June, Shooting Star Collective hosted its first event, a virtual raffle to support a fundraiser for House of the Lorde, a Black feminist burlesque and performance collective, creative studio and “spiritual home” founded by Chicago drag and burlesque luminary Jenn Freeman, also known as Po’Chop.
Members of Shooting Star offered prizes in exchange for donations, including tarot readings, birth chart analysis, website creation, guitar lessons and even a home-cooked meal. To support the raffle, collective member Raging Blister created a <a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/DK_acBSMZAT/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener external" data-wpel-link="external">digital drag performance</a> and photo shoot inspired by Audre Lorde’s “Uses of the Erotic.” 
“It’s getting people more involved in our collective and what we’re about, but also getting people to support House of the Lorde, which has opened up a lot of room for Black performers in the city,” Hill said.
Collective members are also discussing hosting performance exchanges, critique circles and workshops within the group but open to the public, as well as organizing collaborations with COVID-conscious, accessibility-forward events and nightlife collectives Save the Night and Parallel Play. 
Shooting Star also seeks to be a resource for producers and venue owners seeking to create more accessible environments. Collective members have created presentations and materials on topics concerning accessibility, which can be requested through the collective’s Instagram page. 
A core component of Shooting Star’s vision of an accessible Chicago drag community is transparency. Hill wants to encourage venue owners and producers to be as transparent as possible in understanding and communicating about accessibility of their events and spaces. They want venues to be as accessible as possible, and for event and venue management to be more upfront and communicative about why a space or event cannot be made accessible when it is not possible.
“Accessibility is such an important part of how disabled artists can show up,” Hill said. “How people can show up is just by talking about disabled drag artists in this community. There are so many of us that people don’t know about that I feel don’t get recognized.”
“Also, by being transparent about health or accessibility issues they might have or how they have been shut out of going to shows if there’s no virtual option or there’s no seating at a venue.”
<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img data-recalc-dims="1" decoding="async" width="780" height="519" src="https://i0.wp.com/bcc-newspack.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/2025/06/062925-Pride-Parade-Colin-Boyle-5107-1024x682.jpg?resize=780%2C519&ssl=1" alt="" class="wp-image-895461" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/bcc-newspack.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/2025/06/062925-Pride-Parade-Colin-Boyle-5107.jpg?resize=1024%2C682&ssl=1 1024w, https://i0.wp.com/bcc-newspack.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/2025/06/062925-Pride-Parade-Colin-Boyle-5107.jpg?resize=300%2C200&ssl=1 300w, https://i0.wp.com/bcc-newspack.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/2025/06/062925-Pride-Parade-Colin-Boyle-5107.jpg?resize=768%2C512&ssl=1 768w, https://i0.wp.com/bcc-newspack.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/2025/06/062925-Pride-Parade-Colin-Boyle-5107.jpg?resize=1536%2C1024&ssl=1 1536w, https://i0.wp.com/bcc-newspack.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/2025/06/062925-Pride-Parade-Colin-Boyle-5107.jpg?resize=1200%2C800&ssl=1 1200w, https://i0.wp.com/bcc-newspack.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/2025/06/062925-Pride-Parade-Colin-Boyle-5107.jpg?resize=780%2C520&ssl=1 780w, https://i0.wp.com/bcc-newspack.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/2025/06/062925-Pride-Parade-Colin-Boyle-5107.jpg?resize=400%2C267&ssl=1 400w, https://i0.wp.com/bcc-newspack.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/2025/06/062925-Pride-Parade-Colin-Boyle-5107.jpg?resize=706%2C471&ssl=1 706w, https://i0.wp.com/bcc-newspack.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/2025/06/062925-Pride-Parade-Colin-Boyle-5107.jpg?w=2000&ssl=1 2000w, https://i0.wp.com/bcc-newspack.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/2025/06/062925-Pride-Parade-Colin-Boyle-5107-1024x682.jpg?w=370&ssl=1 370w" sizes="(max-width: 780px) 100vw, 780px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Parade goers march in the 54th annual Chicago Pride Parade in Lakeview on June 29, 2025. Credit: Colin Boyle/Block Club Chicago</figcaption></figure>
Part of the vision of Shooting Star Collective is to move Chicago drag out of a “scene” and into a “community,” Fosse said.
“I think the difference between a scene and a community is the level of responsibility we have to each other,” they said. “We’re seeing how performers can learn and embody taking care of one another, not just in small things like covering someone’s drinks or getting cars in that way, but also maybe wearing a mask to a show where you aren’t performing or testing beforehand. There are ways we can incorporate mindfulness into said scene so it can be a community.”
Fosse said they wish more people recognized the ways disability, coronavirus safety, transness, queerness, classism and other issues intersect, especially in the drag community. Fosse noted that trans people as a demographic report experiencing higher rates of long COVID, but that COVID safety is just one aspect of a larger, multilayered conversation about accessibility.
“You start learning about accessibility as a whole,” Fosse said. “Is the space accessible for wheelchair users? Is there a space that’s a little bit quieter for people who become overstimulated in large crowds? I wish people understood not just how deep it goes but how wide and far it goes.” 
For Fosse and Hill, the work of Shooting Star feels particularly crucial at a moment where the <a href="https://blockclubchicago.org/2025/04/04/as-trump-dismantles-gender-affirming-policies-chicago-lgbtq-students-and-staff-mobilize/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener" data-wpel-link="internal">Trump administration and other elected officials have made moves targeting the LGBTQ+ community</a>, in particular the trans community, and cutting funding, staff and resources from public health institutions. As those rights and resources are under attack, it becomes the responsibility of communities to do more to take care of one another, they said.
“We have such a responsibility to each other, and if we as performers are put into positions as hosts and producers, it’s not impossible to create more inclusive spaces for everyone,” Hill said. “We don’t have to keep things as they are to keep the peace.”
People interested in connecting with Shooting Star Collective can do so via the collective’s <a href="https://www.instagram.com/shootingstar_chi" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener external" data-wpel-link="external">Instagram</a>, <a href="https://web-cdn.bsky.app/profile/did:plc:3jxvdktdrqk6d6bifsnmcfp2" data-wpel-link="external" target="_blank" rel="external noopener noreferrer">BlueSky</a> or <a href="https://discord.com/invite/RFbZaqaXgV" data-wpel-link="external" target="_blank" rel="external noopener noreferrer">Discord</a>.
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<post-id xmlns="com-wordpress:feed-additions:1">894520</post-id> </item>
<item>
<title>3 More Restaurants, Bars Open In South Loop</title>
<link>https://blockclubchicago.org/2025/07/02/3-more-restaurants-bars-open-in-south-loop/</link>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[Jamie Nesbitt Golden]]></dc:creator>
<pubDate>Wed, 02 Jul 2025 13:30:00 +0000</pubDate>
<category><![CDATA[Block Club Eats]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Business]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Downtown]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Openings & Closings]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[South Loop]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Restaurants]]></category>
<guid isPermaLink="false">https://blockclubchicago.org/?p=896206</guid>
<description><![CDATA[<figure><img width="1024" height="666" src="https://i0.wp.com/bcc-newspack.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/2025/07/SouthernChi2025.jpg?fit=1024%2C666&ssl=1" class="attachment-rss-image-size size-rss-image-size wp-post-image" alt="" decoding="async" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/bcc-newspack.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/2025/07/SouthernChi2025.jpg?w=2000&ssl=1 2000w, https://i0.wp.com/bcc-newspack.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/2025/07/SouthernChi2025.jpg?resize=300%2C195&ssl=1 300w, https://i0.wp.com/bcc-newspack.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/2025/07/SouthernChi2025.jpg?resize=1024%2C666&ssl=1 1024w, https://i0.wp.com/bcc-newspack.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/2025/07/SouthernChi2025.jpg?resize=768%2C499&ssl=1 768w, https://i0.wp.com/bcc-newspack.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/2025/07/SouthernChi2025.jpg?resize=1536%2C998&ssl=1 1536w, https://i0.wp.com/bcc-newspack.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/2025/07/SouthernChi2025.jpg?resize=1200%2C780&ssl=1 1200w, https://i0.wp.com/bcc-newspack.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/2025/07/SouthernChi2025.jpg?resize=780%2C507&ssl=1 780w, https://i0.wp.com/bcc-newspack.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/2025/07/SouthernChi2025.jpg?resize=400%2C260&ssl=1 400w, https://i0.wp.com/bcc-newspack.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/2025/07/SouthernChi2025.jpg?resize=706%2C459&ssl=1 706w, https://i0.wp.com/bcc-newspack.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/2025/07/SouthernChi2025.jpg?fit=1024%2C666&ssl=1&w=370 370w" sizes="(max-width: 34.9rem) calc(100vw - 2rem), (max-width: 53rem) calc(8 * (100vw / 12)), (min-width: 53rem) calc(6 * (100vw / 12)), 100vw" /></figure>Vitalogy bar opened last month on the Dearborn Street corridor, while the much-anticipated Southern Chicago and a Pure Green outpost join South Michigan Avenue.]]></description>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[<figure><img width="1024" height="666" src="https://i0.wp.com/bcc-newspack.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/2025/07/SouthernChi2025.jpg?fit=1024%2C666&ssl=1" class="attachment-rss-image-size size-rss-image-size wp-post-image" alt="" decoding="async" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/bcc-newspack.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/2025/07/SouthernChi2025.jpg?w=2000&ssl=1 2000w, https://i0.wp.com/bcc-newspack.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/2025/07/SouthernChi2025.jpg?resize=300%2C195&ssl=1 300w, https://i0.wp.com/bcc-newspack.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/2025/07/SouthernChi2025.jpg?resize=1024%2C666&ssl=1 1024w, https://i0.wp.com/bcc-newspack.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/2025/07/SouthernChi2025.jpg?resize=768%2C499&ssl=1 768w, https://i0.wp.com/bcc-newspack.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/2025/07/SouthernChi2025.jpg?resize=1536%2C998&ssl=1 1536w, https://i0.wp.com/bcc-newspack.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/2025/07/SouthernChi2025.jpg?resize=1200%2C780&ssl=1 1200w, https://i0.wp.com/bcc-newspack.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/2025/07/SouthernChi2025.jpg?resize=780%2C507&ssl=1 780w, https://i0.wp.com/bcc-newspack.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/2025/07/SouthernChi2025.jpg?resize=400%2C260&ssl=1 400w, https://i0.wp.com/bcc-newspack.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/2025/07/SouthernChi2025.jpg?resize=706%2C459&ssl=1 706w, https://i0.wp.com/bcc-newspack.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/2025/07/SouthernChi2025.jpg?fit=1024%2C666&ssl=1&w=370 370w" sizes="(max-width: 34.9rem) calc(100vw - 2rem), (max-width: 53rem) calc(8 * (100vw / 12)), (min-width: 53rem) calc(6 * (100vw / 12)), 100vw" /></figure>
SOUTH LOOP — Three new restaurants in the South Loop are offering everything from craft cocktails to oatmeal bowls. Here’s where to go and what to know:
<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-vitalogy-on-dearborn">Vitalogy on Dearborn</h2>
The <a href="https://vitalogycraft.com" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener external" data-wpel-link="external">South Loop’s newest watering hole</a> opened in early June at 723 S. Dearborn St.
The bar’s name is a nod to Pearl Jam’s classic 1994 album and an early 20th-century health and wellness encyclopedia printed at the printing press once housed there. The name came easy to proprietors Jennifer Wilson and James Shields, who moved to the South Loop from New York and Washington, respectively, and wanted to open a laid-back neighborhood space with small bites and craft cocktails. 
Pub fare includes roasted nuts and chickpeas ($6) and a charcuterie board ($16-$28) and drinks like the Maester’s Study ($18) and The Magnificent Miel ($18).
<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img data-recalc-dims="1" decoding="async" width="780" height="507" src="https://i0.wp.com/bcc-newspack.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/2025/07/MaesterVitalogy-1024x666.jpg?resize=780%2C507&ssl=1" alt="" class="wp-image-896258" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/bcc-newspack.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/2025/07/MaesterVitalogy.jpg?resize=1024%2C666&ssl=1 1024w, https://i0.wp.com/bcc-newspack.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/2025/07/MaesterVitalogy.jpg?resize=300%2C195&ssl=1 300w, https://i0.wp.com/bcc-newspack.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/2025/07/MaesterVitalogy.jpg?resize=768%2C499&ssl=1 768w, https://i0.wp.com/bcc-newspack.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/2025/07/MaesterVitalogy.jpg?resize=1536%2C998&ssl=1 1536w, https://i0.wp.com/bcc-newspack.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/2025/07/MaesterVitalogy.jpg?resize=1200%2C780&ssl=1 1200w, https://i0.wp.com/bcc-newspack.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/2025/07/MaesterVitalogy.jpg?resize=780%2C507&ssl=1 780w, https://i0.wp.com/bcc-newspack.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/2025/07/MaesterVitalogy.jpg?resize=400%2C260&ssl=1 400w, https://i0.wp.com/bcc-newspack.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/2025/07/MaesterVitalogy.jpg?resize=706%2C459&ssl=1 706w, https://i0.wp.com/bcc-newspack.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/2025/07/MaesterVitalogy.jpg?w=2000&ssl=1 2000w, https://i0.wp.com/bcc-newspack.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/2025/07/MaesterVitalogy-1024x666.jpg?w=370&ssl=1 370w" sizes="(max-width: 780px) 100vw, 780px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">The Maester’s Study, one of several craft cocktails on the menu at Vitalogy on Dearborn in the South Loop. Credit: Provided.</figcaption></figure>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-southern-chicago">Southern Chicago</h2>
Owners Xavier Vance and Troy Vivrett <a href="https://www.southernchicagorestaurant.com" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener external" data-wpel-link="external">celebrated the grand opening of their highly anticipated eatery</a>, 2000 S. Wabash Ave, last month and are now taking reservations. 
The restaurant offers elevated Southern cuisine, from small bites like shrimp and caviar deviled eggs to dishes like the Barrel Aged Maple Fried Chicken. The menu is an homage to the duo’s Tennessee and Mississippi roots.
Opening the Southern has been a labor of love for Vance and Vivrett, who conceived the concept during the early days of the pandemic and had planned to open Labor Day 2023.
<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-pure-green-juice-smoothies">Pure Green Juice + Smoothies</h2>
<a href="https://www.puregreenfranchise.com" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener external" data-wpel-link="external">The juice chain</a> will soon open another South Loop location, this time at 1212 S. Michigan Ave. 
The “handcrafted, made-to-order” smoothies come in a variety of flavors, from Skinny Coco to Blue Banana. Acai bowls, steel-cut oatmeal bowls, Superfood Toasts and cold-pressed juices round out the menu.
Pure Green has 10 other locations in the Chicago area, including Fulton Market and the Gold Coast.
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<post-id xmlns="com-wordpress:feed-additions:1">896206</post-id> </item>
<item>
<title>4 New Restaurants To Try In Lincoln Square, Albany Park And Irving Park — Plus More Food News</title>
<link>https://blockclubchicago.org/2025/07/02/4-new-restaurants-to-try-in-lincoln-square-albany-park-and-irving-park-plus-more-food-news/</link>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[Alex V. Hernandez]]></dc:creator>
<pubDate>Wed, 02 Jul 2025 13:18:00 +0000</pubDate>
<category><![CDATA[Block Club Eats]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Business]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Lincoln Square]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Lincoln Square, North Center, Irving Park]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Openings & Closings]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Featured]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Locked]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Restaurants]]></category>
<guid isPermaLink="false">https://blockclubchicago.org/?p=896117</guid>
<description><![CDATA[<figure><img width="1024" height="666" src="https://i0.wp.com/bcc-newspack.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/2025/07/Union-Dumpling-House-Lincoln-Square.png?fit=1024%2C666&ssl=1" class="attachment-rss-image-size size-rss-image-size wp-post-image" alt="" decoding="async" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/bcc-newspack.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/2025/07/Union-Dumpling-House-Lincoln-Square.png?w=2000&ssl=1 2000w, https://i0.wp.com/bcc-newspack.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/2025/07/Union-Dumpling-House-Lincoln-Square.png?resize=300%2C195&ssl=1 300w, https://i0.wp.com/bcc-newspack.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/2025/07/Union-Dumpling-House-Lincoln-Square.png?resize=1024%2C666&ssl=1 1024w, https://i0.wp.com/bcc-newspack.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/2025/07/Union-Dumpling-House-Lincoln-Square.png?resize=768%2C499&ssl=1 768w, https://i0.wp.com/bcc-newspack.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/2025/07/Union-Dumpling-House-Lincoln-Square.png?resize=1536%2C998&ssl=1 1536w, https://i0.wp.com/bcc-newspack.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/2025/07/Union-Dumpling-House-Lincoln-Square.png?resize=1200%2C780&ssl=1 1200w, https://i0.wp.com/bcc-newspack.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/2025/07/Union-Dumpling-House-Lincoln-Square.png?resize=780%2C507&ssl=1 780w, https://i0.wp.com/bcc-newspack.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/2025/07/Union-Dumpling-House-Lincoln-Square.png?resize=400%2C260&ssl=1 400w, https://i0.wp.com/bcc-newspack.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/2025/07/Union-Dumpling-House-Lincoln-Square.png?resize=706%2C459&ssl=1 706w, https://i0.wp.com/bcc-newspack.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/2025/07/Union-Dumpling-House-Lincoln-Square.png?fit=1024%2C666&ssl=1&w=370 370w" sizes="(max-width: 34.9rem) calc(100vw - 2rem), (max-width: 53rem) calc(8 * (100vw / 12)), (min-width: 53rem) calc(6 * (100vw / 12)), 100vw" /></figure>Lincoln Square’s newest dumpling spot is now in its soft opening phase and a new Asian eatery is open from the brothers behind two other local restaurants.
]]></description>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[<figure><img width="1024" height="666" src="https://i0.wp.com/bcc-newspack.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/2025/07/Union-Dumpling-House-Lincoln-Square.png?fit=1024%2C666&ssl=1" class="attachment-rss-image-size size-rss-image-size wp-post-image" alt="" decoding="async" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/bcc-newspack.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/2025/07/Union-Dumpling-House-Lincoln-Square.png?w=2000&ssl=1 2000w, https://i0.wp.com/bcc-newspack.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/2025/07/Union-Dumpling-House-Lincoln-Square.png?resize=300%2C195&ssl=1 300w, https://i0.wp.com/bcc-newspack.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/2025/07/Union-Dumpling-House-Lincoln-Square.png?resize=1024%2C666&ssl=1 1024w, https://i0.wp.com/bcc-newspack.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/2025/07/Union-Dumpling-House-Lincoln-Square.png?resize=768%2C499&ssl=1 768w, https://i0.wp.com/bcc-newspack.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/2025/07/Union-Dumpling-House-Lincoln-Square.png?resize=1536%2C998&ssl=1 1536w, https://i0.wp.com/bcc-newspack.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/2025/07/Union-Dumpling-House-Lincoln-Square.png?resize=1200%2C780&ssl=1 1200w, https://i0.wp.com/bcc-newspack.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/2025/07/Union-Dumpling-House-Lincoln-Square.png?resize=780%2C507&ssl=1 780w, https://i0.wp.com/bcc-newspack.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/2025/07/Union-Dumpling-House-Lincoln-Square.png?resize=400%2C260&ssl=1 400w, https://i0.wp.com/bcc-newspack.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/2025/07/Union-Dumpling-House-Lincoln-Square.png?resize=706%2C459&ssl=1 706w, https://i0.wp.com/bcc-newspack.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/2025/07/Union-Dumpling-House-Lincoln-Square.png?fit=1024%2C666&ssl=1&w=370 370w" sizes="(max-width: 34.9rem) calc(100vw - 2rem), (max-width: 53rem) calc(8 * (100vw / 12)), (min-width: 53rem) calc(6 * (100vw / 12)), 100vw" /></figure>Lincoln Square’s newest dumpling spot is now in its soft opening phase and a new Asian eatery is open from the brothers behind two other local restaurants.
]]></content:encoded>
<post-id xmlns="com-wordpress:feed-additions:1">896117</post-id> </item>
<item>
<title>Cured And Crafted Sandwich Shop Coming To Gladstone Park, With Meaty Options On Deck</title>
<link>https://blockclubchicago.org/2025/07/02/cured-and-crafted-sandwich-shop-coming-to-gladstone-park-with-meaty-options-on-deck/</link>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[Molly DeVore]]></dc:creator>
<pubDate>Wed, 02 Jul 2025 13:10:00 +0000</pubDate>
<category><![CDATA[Block Club Eats]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Business]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Jefferson Park]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Jefferson Park, Portage Park, Norwood Park]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Openings & Closings]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Locked]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Restaurants]]></category>
<guid isPermaLink="false">https://blockclubchicago.org/?p=895673</guid>
<description><![CDATA[<figure><img width="1024" height="666" src="https://i0.wp.com/bcc-newspack.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/2025/06/Untitled-design-3-2.png?fit=1024%2C666&ssl=1" class="attachment-rss-image-size size-rss-image-size wp-post-image" alt="Mike Barboza is opening Cured and Crafted in Gladstone Park." decoding="async" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/bcc-newspack.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/2025/06/Untitled-design-3-2.png?w=2000&ssl=1 2000w, https://i0.wp.com/bcc-newspack.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/2025/06/Untitled-design-3-2.png?resize=300%2C195&ssl=1 300w, https://i0.wp.com/bcc-newspack.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/2025/06/Untitled-design-3-2.png?resize=1024%2C666&ssl=1 1024w, https://i0.wp.com/bcc-newspack.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/2025/06/Untitled-design-3-2.png?resize=768%2C499&ssl=1 768w, https://i0.wp.com/bcc-newspack.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/2025/06/Untitled-design-3-2.png?resize=1536%2C998&ssl=1 1536w, https://i0.wp.com/bcc-newspack.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/2025/06/Untitled-design-3-2.png?resize=1200%2C780&ssl=1 1200w, https://i0.wp.com/bcc-newspack.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/2025/06/Untitled-design-3-2.png?resize=780%2C507&ssl=1 780w, https://i0.wp.com/bcc-newspack.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/2025/06/Untitled-design-3-2.png?resize=400%2C260&ssl=1 400w, https://i0.wp.com/bcc-newspack.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/2025/06/Untitled-design-3-2.png?resize=706%2C459&ssl=1 706w, https://i0.wp.com/bcc-newspack.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/2025/06/Untitled-design-3-2.png?fit=1024%2C666&ssl=1&w=370 370w" sizes="(max-width: 34.9rem) calc(100vw - 2rem), (max-width: 53rem) calc(8 * (100vw / 12)), (min-width: 53rem) calc(6 * (100vw / 12)), 100vw" /></figure>The restaurant is a short walk from owner Mike Barboza’s house. Sandwiches feature locally sourced meats and bread, and some are inspired by his Peruvian heritage.
]]></description>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[<figure><img width="1024" height="666" src="https://i0.wp.com/bcc-newspack.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/2025/06/Untitled-design-3-2.png?fit=1024%2C666&ssl=1" class="attachment-rss-image-size size-rss-image-size wp-post-image" alt="Mike Barboza is opening Cured and Crafted in Gladstone Park." decoding="async" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/bcc-newspack.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/2025/06/Untitled-design-3-2.png?w=2000&ssl=1 2000w, https://i0.wp.com/bcc-newspack.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/2025/06/Untitled-design-3-2.png?resize=300%2C195&ssl=1 300w, https://i0.wp.com/bcc-newspack.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/2025/06/Untitled-design-3-2.png?resize=1024%2C666&ssl=1 1024w, https://i0.wp.com/bcc-newspack.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/2025/06/Untitled-design-3-2.png?resize=768%2C499&ssl=1 768w, https://i0.wp.com/bcc-newspack.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/2025/06/Untitled-design-3-2.png?resize=1536%2C998&ssl=1 1536w, https://i0.wp.com/bcc-newspack.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/2025/06/Untitled-design-3-2.png?resize=1200%2C780&ssl=1 1200w, https://i0.wp.com/bcc-newspack.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/2025/06/Untitled-design-3-2.png?resize=780%2C507&ssl=1 780w, https://i0.wp.com/bcc-newspack.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/2025/06/Untitled-design-3-2.png?resize=400%2C260&ssl=1 400w, https://i0.wp.com/bcc-newspack.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/2025/06/Untitled-design-3-2.png?resize=706%2C459&ssl=1 706w, https://i0.wp.com/bcc-newspack.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/2025/06/Untitled-design-3-2.png?fit=1024%2C666&ssl=1&w=370 370w" sizes="(max-width: 34.9rem) calc(100vw - 2rem), (max-width: 53rem) calc(8 * (100vw / 12)), (min-width: 53rem) calc(6 * (100vw / 12)), 100vw" /></figure>The restaurant is a short walk from owner Mike Barboza’s house. Sandwiches feature locally sourced meats and bread, and some are inspired by his Peruvian heritage.
]]></content:encoded>
<post-id xmlns="com-wordpress:feed-additions:1">895673</post-id> </item>
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