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Wellness, faith and weather: Cable news' lifestyle pivot

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Robinhood expands prediction markets despite legal uncertainty

Deirdre Bosa partners with Yahoo Finance on new AI live show

Exclusive: Snap names Ronan Harris chief commercial officer

Fox 32 hires Brandon Pope as new political reporter

The veteran journalist gets ready to jump into election season.

Fox 32 has landed a new political reporter: Veteran Chicago journalist Brandon Pope takes over just as the <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="midterms" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/chicago/2026/08/19/illinois-state-fair-democrats-pritzker-durbin-gop-trump-rally-alexi" data-vars-content-id="322f221e-bfe5-4080-ab9a-ce982bc61b2c" data-vars-headline="Fox 32 hires Brandon Pope as new political reporter" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/chicago/2026/08/19/illinois-state-fair-democrats-pritzker-durbin-gop-trump-rally-alexi" target="_self">midterms</a> and <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="mayoral election" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/chicago/2026/08/02/alexi-giannoulias-campaign-mayor-johnson-mendoza-quigley-pritzker" data-vars-content-id="322f221e-bfe5-4080-ab9a-ce982bc61b2c" data-vars-headline="Fox 32 hires Brandon Pope as new political reporter" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/chicago/2026/08/02/alexi-giannoulias-campaign-mayor-johnson-mendoza-quigley-pritzker" target="_self">mayoral election</a> get underway.Why it matters: Pope joins the TV political beat at a consequential moment, with competitive midterms followed closely by Chicago&#x27;s 2027 mayoral election.

Mood Fabrics opens in Chicago

The famed New York fabric store has landed in the Loop, with sewing and design classes coming soon.

The textile mecca born in New York and made famous on &quot;Project Runway&quot; is now open in Chicago.Why it matters: Mood Fabrics expands into Chicago a year after chain retailer <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Joann&#x27;s Fabrics" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2025/02/12/joann-fabrics-closing-stores-2025-bankruptcy" data-vars-content-id="fecc79d2-b363-4464-b3e3-e6a79ffb1df4" data-vars-headline="Mood Fabrics opens in Chicago" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2025/02/12/joann-fabrics-closing-stores-2025-bankruptcy" target="_self">Joann&#x27;s Fabrics</a> closed, and it joins a stable of locally owned options.

Best things to do in Chicago Labor Day weekend

The weekend includes the Chicago Jazz Festival, a movie marathon and tons of outdoor activities.

Things to Do

Let&#x27;s get ready to celebrate the holiday weekend! Here are some of our suggestions for a great Labor Day Weekend around Chicago.

Beluga deaths raise questions about what's next

Animal welfare advocates are questioning captive care after three whales died at the Chicago aquarium.

Environment

The recent beluga whale deaths at Chicago&#x27;s <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Shedd Aquarium" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/chicago/2025/05/05/making-drinking-water-from-sewage-recycling" data-vars-content-id="21eb1bcf-7dd9-4fbf-920a-188718657403" data-vars-headline="Beluga deaths raise questions about what&#x27;s next" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/chicago/2025/05/05/making-drinking-water-from-sewage-recycling" target="_self">Shedd Aquarium</a> are renewing animal welfare activists&#x27; scrutiny of these facilities.Why it matters: Animal welfare activists point to the <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="deaths" data-vars-click-url="https://blockclubchicago.org/2026/09/03/2-more-beluga-whales-die-at-shedd-aquarium-including-recent-rescue/" data-vars-content-id="21eb1bcf-7dd9-4fbf-920a-188718657403" data-vars-headline="Beluga deaths raise questions about what&#x27;s next" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://blockclubchicago.org/2026/09/03/2-more-beluga-whales-die-at-shedd-aquarium-including-recent-rescue/" target="_blank">deaths</a> as examples of the dangers of captivity, while aquariums and other marine facilities argue they&#x27;re best equipped to care for the mammals.

Data centers could score a break under next assessor 

Statements from Cook County's front runner for assessor suggest so.

Cook County Assessor <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Fritz Kaegi" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/chicago/2023/02/16/cook-county-property-tax-relief-kaegi" data-vars-content-id="0b5e7607-f623-4849-a2b6-6611e89046d3" data-vars-headline="Data centers could score a break under next assessor " data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/chicago/2023/02/16/cook-county-property-tax-relief-kaegi" target="_self">Fritz Kaegi</a> has pushed back on suburban data center owners who, he believes, have undervalued their properties to achieve lower taxes.<ul><li>But Pat Hynes, <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="who beat Kaegi" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/chicago/2026/03/18/cook-county-assessor-fritz-kaegi-pat-hynes-democratic-primary" data-vars-content-id="0b5e7607-f623-4849-a2b6-6611e89046d3" data-vars-headline="Data centers could score a break under next assessor " data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/chicago/2026/03/18/cook-county-assessor-fritz-kaegi-pat-hynes-democratic-primary" target="_self">who beat Kaegi</a> in the Democratic primary to run for assessor, tells Axios he would take a different approach — one that could lower taxes for data centers, leaving a greater tax burden on homeowners.</li></ul>

Chicago housing shortage pushes home prices higher

Chicago's median sale price hit $425,000 in July, while the metro area saw a nearly 7% jump.

Real Estate

Home prices continue to climb across the Chicago area.The latest: <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Prices" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2026/06/19/homeownership-housing-affordability-senate" data-vars-content-id="761976aa-9275-48df-9907-5ee1270aa3fd" data-vars-headline="Chicago housing shortage pushes home prices higher" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2026/06/19/homeownership-housing-affordability-senate" target="_self">Prices</a> in the city of Chicago were up 13% in July from a year ago, while suburban home prices rose nearly 7%.Why it matters: With buyers still facing <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="far less inventory" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/chicago/2026/06/24/chicago-housing-affordability-listings-down-home-prices-up-road-to-housing-act" data-vars-content-id="761976aa-9275-48df-9907-5ee1270aa3fd" data-vars-headline="Chicago housing shortage pushes home prices higher" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/chicago/2026/06/24/chicago-housing-affordability-listings-down-home-prices-up-road-to-housing-act" target="_self">far less inventory</a> than before the pandemic, sellers maintain a grip on the market, keeping upward pressure on prices.

Illinois college football sees major makeovers

Chicago football fans have three teams to root for now.

Sports

College football will look a lot different around Chicago and Illinois this fall, from a brand-new program on the South Side to a brand-new stadium in Evanston — and a really, really big TV screen in Champaign.Why it matters: College football is a huge moneymaker for universities, restaurants and other businesses around the region.

Chicago Cubs get their own MLB comic book

The comic book tells the story of the franchise's history.

Culture

The Cubs aren&#x27;t just our hometown heroes anymore. Now they&#x27;re comic book heroes, too.The latest: All Baseball Comics, which is the official comic book partner of Major League Baseball, is releasing three new comic books, including one on the <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Chicago Cubs" data-vars-click-url="https://baseballcomics.com/products/chicago-cubs-1?variant=49165979779307" data-vars-content-id="b1522b7e-e8ca-4f49-ab42-8632e92c4a04" data-vars-headline="Chicago Cubs get their own MLB comic book" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://baseballcomics.com/products/chicago-cubs-1?variant=49165979779307" target="_blank">Chicago Cubs</a>.

Chicago faces a nearly $900 million budget gap

The expected deficit shrank by more than $200 million but is still approaching $900 million.

Chicago&#x27;s 2027 budget deficit checks in at $283.9 million less than what was <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="expected at this time last year." data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/chicago/2025/08/11/five-paths-to-shrinking-chicagos-deficit" data-vars-content-id="0697a0e4-2d35-4a18-bd47-1f13092d0143" data-vars-headline="Chicago faces a nearly $900 million budget gap" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/chicago/2025/08/11/five-paths-to-shrinking-chicagos-deficit" target="_self">expected at this time last year.</a>Why it matters: While good news, it still leaves a whopping $882.4 million gap for Mayor Brandon Johnson and a contentious City Council to fill by the end of the year, according to projections released by the mayor&#x27;s office Thursday.

Chicago life expectancy rose again, but racial gaps persist

Black residents live 15 years less than Asian residents, on average.

Health

Chicago&#x27;s average <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="life expectancy" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/chicago/2025/02/24/chicago-life-expectancy-gap" data-vars-content-id="0c61e681-3c74-4198-8c0c-8821050ae525" data-vars-headline="Chicago life expectancy rose again, but racial gaps persist" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/chicago/2025/02/24/chicago-life-expectancy-gap" target="_self">life expectancy</a> rose for the third straight year to 78.7 years, with most racial groups nearing pre-pandemic levels and white residents surpassing that benchmark, according to recently released <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="2023 data from the Chicago Department of Public Health. " data-vars-click-url="https://www.chicago.gov/content/dam/city/depts/cdph/statistics_and_reports/2025/2023-Life-Expectancy-Data-Brief_Final-for-Public-Release-09.10.2025.pdf" data-vars-content-id="0c61e681-3c74-4198-8c0c-8821050ae525" data-vars-headline="Chicago life expectancy rose again, but racial gaps persist" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.chicago.gov/content/dam/city/depts/cdph/statistics_and_reports/2025/2023-Life-Expectancy-Data-Brief_Final-for-Public-Release-09.10.2025.pdf" target="_blank">2023 data from the Chicago Department of Public Health. </a>Why it matters: The data suggests an emergence from many health problems associated with the pandemic, but underscores persistently uneven outcomes among races.

How Chicago plans to help its most rent-burdened residents

A new city plan aims to increase affordable housing with a new financing method.

Heavy rent burdens disproportionately affect Black and Latino residents on the South and West sides, according to census data released last fall.Why it matters: Rent-burdened people — meaning those who spend more than 30% of their income on housing — have a harder time affording other essentials and saving for their own homes, which further widens the racial wealth and homeownership gap.

Thousands of Chicago hotel workers threaten to strike

About 7,000 hotel workers have expired contracts as their union pushes for wages and benefits.

Thousands of Chicago hotel workers are threatening to strike if hotels don&#x27;t meet their demands.Why it matters: The union represents 15,000 workers at more than 40 Chicago hotels, meaning a widespread strike could disrupt hotel operations during a key time for tourism and conventions.

White Sox stadium plan sparks backlash in Bridgeport

The new proposal for a riverfront stadium has irked some Bridgeport residents.

The White Sox&#x27;s latest stadium proposal has fans fighting over neighborhoods, mirroring the <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Bears&#x27; stadium drama" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/chicago/2026/06/15/chicago-bears-fans-still-hot-over-potential-indiana-move" data-vars-content-id="dfa20900-3998-4c7d-8372-b7634f1c6123" data-vars-headline="White Sox stadium plan sparks backlash in Bridgeport" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/chicago/2026/06/15/chicago-bears-fans-still-hot-over-potential-indiana-move" target="_self">Bears&#x27; stadium drama</a> over state lines.The latest: <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Future White Sox owner Justin Ishbia" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/chicago/2025/06/05/white-sox-chairman-jerry-reinsdorf-justin-ishbia-mat-bulls-suns-ownership" data-vars-content-id="dfa20900-3998-4c7d-8372-b7634f1c6123" data-vars-headline="White Sox stadium plan sparks backlash in Bridgeport" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/chicago/2025/06/05/white-sox-chairman-jerry-reinsdorf-justin-ishbia-mat-bulls-suns-ownership" target="_self">Future White Sox owner Justin Ishbia</a> shared renderings Saturday of a new ballpark that would anchor &quot;The Railyards,&quot; a megadevelopment on the Amtrak train yard south of Roosevelt Road along the Chicago River.

Want to jump in the Chicago River? Here's your chance

The Chicago River Swim is adding "The Big Jump" to its festivities later this month.

The Chicago River Swim is <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="returning this month" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/chicago/2025/09/18/chicagoans-brave-the-river-after-100-years" data-vars-content-id="a4adbc11-e4ff-4e10-8958-e164f40ed0fb" data-vars-headline="Want to jump in the Chicago River? Here&#x27;s your chance" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/chicago/2025/09/18/chicagoans-brave-the-river-after-100-years" target="_self">returning this month</a> with a new perk: Skip the race and jump in the river instead.The latest: The Swim will host &quot;The Big Jump,&quot; where, for a price, you can take the plunge a few days before the race.

"Oprah Winfrey Show" turns 40: How it transformed Chicago

Oprah is one of the key reasons why the West Loop became popular.

Oprah Winfrey may no longer work in Chicago, but the impact of her groundbreaking talk show can still be felt across the city — especially in the <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="West Loop" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/chicago/2023/03/26/chicago-randolph-street-restaurant-changes" data-vars-content-id="8f5bffb8-f935-487f-84c2-525635502eeb" data-vars-headline="&quot;Oprah Winfrey Show&quot; turns 40: How it transformed Chicago" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/chicago/2023/03/26/chicago-randolph-street-restaurant-changes" target="_self">West Loop</a>.Why it matters: Long before the West Loop became one of Chicago&#x27;s hottest neighborhoods, hundreds of television workers were showing up every day to make one of the most-watched shows in America.Driving the news: Tuesday marks the 40th anniversary of the first national broadcast of &quot;The Oprah Winfrey Show&quot; from Chicago.

Feds face no charges one year after Midway Blitz

Not a single federal agent has yet been charged.

Immigration

Nearly one year after the launch of <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Operation Midway Blitz" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/chicago/2025/12/08/dhs-claims-contradicted-video-court" data-vars-content-id="b398a0e1-6104-481a-a797-224df6a49e65" data-vars-headline="Feds face no charges one year after Midway Blitz" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/chicago/2025/12/08/dhs-claims-contradicted-video-court" target="_self">Operation Midway Blitz</a> — which found Chicagoans <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="shot" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/chicago/2025/10/05/illinois-pritzker-trump-national-guard-chicago-protests" data-vars-content-id="b398a0e1-6104-481a-a797-224df6a49e65" data-vars-headline="Feds face no charges one year after Midway Blitz" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/chicago/2025/10/05/illinois-pritzker-trump-national-guard-chicago-protests" target="_self">shot</a>, <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="killed" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/chicago/2026/05/06/illinois-police-to-investigate-shooting-by-ice" data-vars-content-id="b398a0e1-6104-481a-a797-224df6a49e65" data-vars-headline="Feds face no charges one year after Midway Blitz" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/chicago/2026/05/06/illinois-police-to-investigate-shooting-by-ice" target="_self">killed</a>, <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="beaten" data-vars-click-url="https://apnews.com/article/illinois-immigration-agent-hits-man-confrontation-e723bf7878da1d99a5c7ee2a3780a79e" data-vars-content-id="b398a0e1-6104-481a-a797-224df6a49e65" data-vars-headline="Feds face no charges one year after Midway Blitz" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://apnews.com/article/illinois-immigration-agent-hits-man-confrontation-e723bf7878da1d99a5c7ee2a3780a79e" target="_blank">beaten</a>, <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="tear-gassed" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/chicago/2025/09/19/daniel-biss-protesters-tear-gas-ice-broadview-agents" data-vars-content-id="b398a0e1-6104-481a-a797-224df6a49e65" data-vars-headline="Feds face no charges one year after Midway Blitz" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/chicago/2025/09/19/daniel-biss-protesters-tear-gas-ice-broadview-agents" target="_self">tear-gassed</a>, <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="fired on" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/chicago/2025/09/29/ice-escalates-force-in-broadview-and-downtown" data-vars-content-id="b398a0e1-6104-481a-a797-224df6a49e65" data-vars-headline="Feds face no charges one year after Midway Blitz" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/chicago/2025/09/29/ice-escalates-force-in-broadview-and-downtown" target="_self">fired on</a> and <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="apprehended" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/chicago/2026/08/05/chicago-police-wont-explain-suspended-dhs-case" data-vars-content-id="b398a0e1-6104-481a-a797-224df6a49e65" data-vars-headline="Feds face no charges one year after Midway Blitz" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/chicago/2026/08/05/chicago-police-wont-explain-suspended-dhs-case" target="_self">apprehended</a> by DHS agents — not a single federal officer has faced charges for on-duty activities.Why it matters: This lack of accountability can contribute to hopelessness among residents and a feeling of impunity for federal agents.

Process to select Chicago's top cop hits bumps 

Timing, infighting and differing priorities complicate the process.

Public Safety

As a special commission vets candidates for Chicago&#x27;s next police chief, timing and infighting are complicating the process and throwing its success into doubt.Why it matters: Selecting the right person for police superintendent is a crucial undertaking that could help protect public safety gains achieved in recent years.

UChicago limiting tech in classes

Students will read on paper and discuss texts face to face in device-free classes.

Education

Some <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="University of Chicago" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/chicago/2026/07/21/uchicago-northwestern-financial-aid-lawsuit-settlement-payments-class-action" data-vars-content-id="0a459a36-1ad8-43da-bc79-7f780adcf2ab" data-vars-headline="UChicago limiting tech in classes" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/chicago/2026/07/21/uchicago-northwestern-financial-aid-lawsuit-settlement-payments-class-action" target="_self">University of Chicago</a> students can expect an analog classroom experience next school year.Why it matters: As higher education <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="grapples with the role AI" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2026/08/15/college-major-ai-skills-job-search" data-vars-content-id="0a459a36-1ad8-43da-bc79-7f780adcf2ab" data-vars-headline="UChicago limiting tech in classes" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2026/08/15/college-major-ai-skills-job-search" target="_self">grapples with the role AI</a> plays in students&#x27; academic careers, the prestigious university known for intellectual rigor believes the classroom should be a space for &quot;free, robust and uninhibited discussion.&quot;

Remembering Dolly Parton's star turn at Chicago's Rainbo Club

The iconic actress and singer was in town shooting "Straight Talk" in 1991.

News

Dolly Parton performed in Chicago several times, but one of her most memorable local star turns came on a tiny stage in a Wicker Park dive bar.The latest: The <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="musician and actress died" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/nashville/2026/08/25/dolly-parton-has-died-at-80-obit" data-vars-content-id="ae944fb6-85fa-47f6-88ae-aa94848ae4fc" data-vars-headline="Remembering Dolly Parton&#x27;s star turn at Chicago&#x27;s Rainbo Club" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/nashville/2026/08/25/dolly-parton-has-died-at-80-obit" target="_self">musician and actress died</a> Tuesday at age 80.

Soul & Smoke opens groundbreaking spot in Evanston

The restaurant offers casual and fine dining with art under one roof.

Food and Drink

This week, barbecue and hospitality masters D&#x27;Andre Carter and Heather Bublick launched their long-awaited, first full-service <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Soul &amp; Smoke" data-vars-click-url="https://www.soulandsmoke.com/evanston" data-vars-content-id="db0a968b-3ea2-4dbc-9694-e2ff1e9a07af" data-vars-headline="Soul &amp; Smoke opens groundbreaking spot in Evanston" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.soulandsmoke.com/evanston" target="_blank">Soul &amp; Smoke</a> in a former Evanston barn.Why it matters: This latest addition to the Soul &amp; Smoke brand on Payne Street comes with a bunch of delightful firsts when it comes to local barbecue. Here are some of them:

Chicago's Sound & Gravity festival returns with 50+ acts

The four-day fest turns venues across Avondale and Bricktown into a hub for adventurous music.

Music

Experimental, jazz, modern classical and more take center stage at Chicago&#x27;s <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Sound &amp; Gravity festival" data-vars-click-url="https://soundandgravity.org/" data-vars-content-id="ef8b3e49-b192-4c1d-8cfd-4b285a98f918" data-vars-headline="Chicago&#x27;s Sound &amp; Gravity festival returns with 50+ acts" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://soundandgravity.org/" target="_blank">Sound &amp; Gravity festival</a> this weekend.

Axios Chicago readers pick the best deep dish pizza

Axios Chicago readers weigh in on this heavy subject.

Axios Chicago readers delivered some great pizza suggestions in response to our deep dish <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Food Fight" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/chicago/2026/07/20/food-fight-chicago-deep-dish-pizza-malnatis-labriola-ginos-pizanos" data-vars-content-id="3aa66a29-162d-406e-aba2-0e000402951c" data-vars-headline="Axios Chicago readers pick the best deep dish pizza" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/chicago/2026/07/20/food-fight-chicago-deep-dish-pizza-malnatis-labriola-ginos-pizanos" target="_self">Food Fight</a>, but some folks still seem fuzzy about Chicago&#x27;s taxonomy of heavy pizza styles beyond deep dish.For the record: Deep dish (Lou&#x27;s, Uno, Due and Gino&#x27;s) features a buttery crust, a layer of cheese, then sauce.<ul><li>Pan pizza (like Burt&#x27;s, Pequod&#x27;s and George&#x27;s) boasts a fluffy crust and caramelized, fricoed edges.</li><li>Stuffed pizza (like Giordano&#x27;s, Eduardo&#x27;s and Nancy&#x27;s) starts with a thin bottom crust, then gobs of cheese, a second top crust and finally sauce.</li></ul>

Chicago daters turn to matchmakers as app fatigue grows

Matchmakers offer Chicago daters coaching and curated connections — sometimes at a steep price.

Some daters<a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text=" fatigued by apps" data-vars-click-url="https://www.npr.org/2026/08/23/nx-s1-5938103/have-dating-apps-lost-their-luster-data-shows-a-decline-in-users" data-vars-content-id="f364a662-640f-45a8-aa84-56790971a3f8" data-vars-headline="Chicago daters turn to matchmakers as app fatigue grows" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.npr.org/2026/08/23/nx-s1-5938103/have-dating-apps-lost-their-luster-data-shows-a-decline-in-users" target="_blank"> fatigued by apps</a> are trying matchmakers, but the rules of dating remain the same—it takes time, focus and honesty to work.Why it matters: While <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="1 in 10 partnered people reported" data-vars-click-url="https://www.pewresearch.org/short-reads/2024/02/08/for-valentines-day-facts-about-marriage-and-dating-in-the-us/" data-vars-content-id="f364a662-640f-45a8-aa84-56790971a3f8" data-vars-headline="Chicago daters turn to matchmakers as app fatigue grows" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.pewresearch.org/short-reads/2024/02/08/for-valentines-day-facts-about-marriage-and-dating-in-the-us/" target="_blank">1 in 10 partnered people reported</a> meeting their significant other on a dating app, 80% of women and 74% of men <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="report burnout" data-vars-click-url="https://www.forbes.com/health/dating/dating-app-fatigue/" data-vars-content-id="f364a662-640f-45a8-aa84-56790971a3f8" data-vars-headline="Chicago daters turn to matchmakers as app fatigue grows" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.forbes.com/health/dating/dating-app-fatigue/" target="_blank">report burnout</a>. Matchmakers offer another option and a companion to work through some of the frustrations of dating.

AI reshaping 1st dates

Dating apps promise AI can make finding love easier, but some experts worry about the trade-offs.

Like most parts of daily life, <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="AI has entered the dating world" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2026/06/18/ai-dating-match-group-companion-apps" data-vars-content-id="fa11cc4b-8077-4ab4-a3fb-66865637f395" data-vars-headline="AI reshaping 1st dates" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2026/06/18/ai-dating-match-group-companion-apps" target="_self">AI has entered the dating world</a>, from helping craft an opening line to serving as an online matchmaker.Why it matters: Relationships should be about authenticity and learning who the other person really is. Some fear leaving those early interactions to AI will further erode human connection.

Axios Chicago readers pick the best Chicago-style hot dogs

Readers chime in on our recent feature on the best hot dogs in town.

Axios Chicago readers had some strong opinions about our recent <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Food Fight" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/chicago/2026/08/03/axios-food-fight-chicago-style-hot-dog-devil-dawgs-home-depot-vienna-beef" data-vars-content-id="d591c33f-37c7-41bb-9cbd-cc3baa5bbb65" data-vars-headline="Axios Chicago readers pick the best Chicago-style hot dogs" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/chicago/2026/08/03/axios-food-fight-chicago-style-hot-dog-devil-dawgs-home-depot-vienna-beef" target="_self">Food Fight</a> over Chicago-style hot dogs.

Axios readers pick the best Italian subs in Chicago

Readers sound off with their favorites in the Chicago area.

Our readers had a lot to say about our recent <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Food Fight" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/chicago/2026/08/10/food-fight-where-to-get-the-best-italian-subs-in-chicago" data-vars-content-id="bc92475d-9bac-4d25-82a5-304df7fc9b8e" data-vars-headline="Axios readers pick the best Italian subs in Chicago" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/chicago/2026/08/10/food-fight-where-to-get-the-best-italian-subs-in-chicago" target="_self">Food Fight</a> over where to get the best Italian subs. We&#x27;re now swimming in great suggestions.

Axios readers pick the best donuts in Chicago 

We&#x27;ve argued about our <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="favorite sweet" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/chicago/2026/08/24/food-fight-best-donuts-beacon-do-rite-old-fashioned-doughnut-vault" data-vars-content-id="04d17fde-0235-4fdb-94d7-2b4dbf1ba6d2" data-vars-headline="Axios readers pick the best donuts in Chicago " data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/chicago/2026/08/24/food-fight-best-donuts-beacon-do-rite-old-fashioned-doughnut-vault" target="_self">favorite sweet</a> (and savory for Monica) treats a <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="couple of times" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/chicago/2022/05/03/chicagos-top-doughnuts" data-vars-content-id="04d17fde-0235-4fdb-94d7-2b4dbf1ba6d2" data-vars-headline="Axios readers pick the best donuts in Chicago " data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/chicago/2022/05/03/chicagos-top-doughnuts" target="_self">couple of times</a>.<ul><li>Each time, Axios readers come through with dozens more!</li></ul>

Axios readers pick the best tavern-style pizza in Chicago

Axios readers name their go-to tavern-style pizzas across Chicago, the suburbs and beyond.

Chicago is a town of many pizzas, but the tried-and-true style we regularly enjoy is tavern style.<ul><li>Don&#x27;t get us wrong, sometimes <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="deep dish hits the spot" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/chicago/2026/07/20/food-fight-chicago-deep-dish-pizza-malnatis-labriola-ginos-pizanos" data-vars-content-id="99ae62df-3eca-49cc-9683-91e87fadad69" data-vars-headline="Axios readers pick the best tavern-style pizza in Chicago" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/chicago/2026/07/20/food-fight-chicago-deep-dish-pizza-malnatis-labriola-ginos-pizanos" target="_self">deep dish hits the spot</a>. </li></ul>Yes, but: For birthday parties, post-16-inch and Friday pizza night, thin-crust is where it&#x27;s at.

How local restaurant owners redirect surplus food across Greater Chicago

Chicago-area Chick-fil-A restaurants have helped turn surplus food into more than 984,000 meals.

Partners

<div data-sponsor-disclosure="&quot;{&quot;logoUrl&quot;:&quot;https://images.axios.com/ACnNZyXdC2LsQ98lIu6nuXQ9oz0=/2026/08/28/1787938705809.jpg&quot;,&quot;headline&quot;:&quot;A message from: Chick-fil-A&quot;}&quot;"></div><div style="display:none"></div>Nearly 2 million Illinois residents rely on SNAP to help with food costs, underscoring the scale of hunger across the state.Local food organizations already operate under significant demand, and any disruption to food assistance can put additional pressure on the community networks that help families fill the gap.The story: Hunger is a year-round challenge that requires ongoing support — but local businesses can play a practical role in strengthening that network.

Yemeni cafes surge across Chicagoland 

These late-night cafes offer alternatives to bars, extensive pastry menus and creative drinks.

Move over, pumpkin spice latte. The hottest new coffee trend comes from Yemen. The buzz: In recent years, Yemeni-American cafe chains — including <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Qahwah House" data-vars-click-url="https://qahwahhouse.com/" data-vars-content-id="e7fed6a0-0b7f-48bb-bfb4-d4eaf5e5d118" data-vars-headline="Yemeni cafes surge across Chicagoland " data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://qahwahhouse.com/" target="_blank">Qahwah House</a>, <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Matari Coffee" data-vars-click-url="https://mataricoffee.com/" data-vars-content-id="e7fed6a0-0b7f-48bb-bfb4-d4eaf5e5d118" data-vars-headline="Yemeni cafes surge across Chicagoland " data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://mataricoffee.com/" target="_blank">Matari Coffee</a>, <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Shibam Coffee Co" data-vars-click-url="https://shibamcoffee.com/" data-vars-content-id="e7fed6a0-0b7f-48bb-bfb4-d4eaf5e5d118" data-vars-headline="Yemeni cafes surge across Chicagoland " data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://shibamcoffee.com/" target="_blank">Shibam Coffee Co</a>, <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Qamaria" data-vars-click-url="https://www.qamariacoffee.com/" data-vars-content-id="e7fed6a0-0b7f-48bb-bfb4-d4eaf5e5d118" data-vars-headline="Yemeni cafes surge across Chicagoland " data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.qamariacoffee.com/" target="_blank">Qamaria</a>, <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Arwa" data-vars-click-url="https://arwacoffee.com/" data-vars-content-id="e7fed6a0-0b7f-48bb-bfb4-d4eaf5e5d118" data-vars-headline="Yemeni cafes surge across Chicagoland " data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://arwacoffee.com/" target="_blank">Arwa</a> and <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Haraz Coffee House" data-vars-click-url="https://harazcoffeehouse.com/?srsltid=AfmBOorAPHjJ676lGpVjllchwZX3uUiyQQ1lzdtBZEwzF4rjdkF__SEF" data-vars-content-id="e7fed6a0-0b7f-48bb-bfb4-d4eaf5e5d118" data-vars-headline="Yemeni cafes surge across Chicagoland " data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://harazcoffeehouse.com/?srsltid=AfmBOorAPHjJ676lGpVjllchwZX3uUiyQQ1lzdtBZEwzF4rjdkF__SEF" target="_blank">Haraz Coffee House</a> — have percolated out from suburban Detroit to the Midwest and the rest of the country.<ul><li>Last year, the number of shops increased by 50%, making them the fastest-growing coffee sector in the nation, according to Technomic, which listed three Yemeni chains in a recent &quot;Future 50 Growth List.&quot; </li></ul>

Quiz: How well do you know Illinois political history?

This week's quiz is all about Springfield.

Politics

Being down in Springfield this week got me nostalgic for state politics. State of play: I&#x27;ve covered a lot of campaigns over the years and stored so much otherwise useless knowledge of comptrollers, treasurers and lieutenant governors in my brain that it is perfect for a quiz!

Illinois Republicans target Pritzker at State Fair rally

Darren Bailey and the slate of Illinois GOP candidates rallied supporters in Springfield on Thursday.

The Republicans took their turn at the Illinois State Fair on Thursday, blasting Democrats as soft on crime, immigration, property taxes and the economy.Why it matters: This <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="second day of partisan politicking" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/chicago/2026/08/19/illinois-state-fair-democrats-pritzker-durbin-gop-trump-rally-alexi" data-vars-content-id="793b0c43-699a-44f3-b047-560e6d2eba38" data-vars-headline="Illinois Republicans target Pritzker at State Fair rally" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/chicago/2026/08/19/illinois-state-fair-democrats-pritzker-durbin-gop-trump-rally-alexi" target="_self">second day of partisan politicking</a> at the fair is illuminating the two sides&#x27; campaign strategies for the upcoming election.

At Illinois State Fair, Democrats target Trump

Democrats took to the stage at the Illinois State Fair to rally the party faithful.

Election season may not traditionally kick off until after Labor Day, but in Illinois, the campaign calendar gets going in mid-August at the state fair.Catch up quick: Democrats rallied supporters during Governor&#x27;s Day at the State Fairgrounds in Springfield. Gov. JB Pritzker, U.S. Sens. Dick Durbin and Tammy Duckworth, and Senate candidate Juliana Stratton headlined the affair Wednesday. Why it matters: The ramp-up to the November election has started. That means more ads, more debates and a lot more politics.

Chicago mayor spars with activists on quantum 

Later in the week the sides seem to be making up

After walking out of a tense anti-quantum event Saturday, Mayor Brandon Johnson is attempting to mend fences with progressive South Side activists who attended.Why it matters: The scene of Johnson being jeered off stage by Black and brown social justice advocates struck a discordant note for a progressive mayor who has long counted these groups as his voter base.

Trump's Indiana storm declaration puts Illinois FEMA aid in spotlight

Is Illinois getting the shaft on federal storm aid due to politics?

Climate

President Trump&#x27;s rapid emergency declaration for <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="storm-ravaged Indiana" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/indianapolis/2026/08/17/indiana-launches-emergency-assistance-housing-vouchers-for-flood-victims" data-vars-content-id="5db2749c-7612-4556-901a-5f0771ddb6f5" data-vars-headline="Trump&#x27;s Indiana storm declaration puts Illinois FEMA aid in spotlight" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/indianapolis/2026/08/17/indiana-launches-emergency-assistance-housing-vouchers-for-flood-victims" target="_self">storm-ravaged Indiana</a> is renewing Democratic concerns about partisanship in federal disaster aid.Why it matters: Thousands of Illinoisans are dealing with <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="damaged or lost property" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/chicago/2026/08/12/illinois-derecho-tornado-indiana-south-suburbs-trees-power-flooding" data-vars-content-id="5db2749c-7612-4556-901a-5f0771ddb6f5" data-vars-headline="Trump&#x27;s Indiana storm declaration puts Illinois FEMA aid in spotlight" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/chicago/2026/08/12/illinois-derecho-tornado-indiana-south-suburbs-trees-power-flooding" target="_self">damaged or lost property</a> from the same derecho that produced eight tornadoes, power outages and flooding on both sides of the state line.

School board candidates split on AI use limits 

The pledge would place a 3-year moratorium on generative AI use.

A Chicago Public Schools parent group is asking <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="school board" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/chicago/2026/06/01/chicago-school-board-campaign-season-begins" data-vars-content-id="2cf16b37-272f-4017-b148-981b46dd1302" data-vars-headline="School board candidates split on AI use limits " data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/chicago/2026/06/01/chicago-school-board-campaign-season-begins" target="_self">school board</a> candidates to sign a pledge limiting AI use in the district. So far, about half of all board contenders have signed.Why it matters: The effort, led by <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Illinois Families for Public Schools" data-vars-click-url="https://www.ilfps.org/" data-vars-content-id="2cf16b37-272f-4017-b148-981b46dd1302" data-vars-headline="School board candidates split on AI use limits " data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.ilfps.org/" target="_blank">Illinois Families for Public Schools</a> (IFPS), could have a major impact on the way Chicago students learn this year.

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