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Local Spotlights

Shining a light on new and noteworthy local businesses, from grand openings to the inspiring people behind them.

Rapper Common delivers a powerful freestyle performance at the Obama Presidential Center, honoring Chicago's historical figures Fred Hampton and Harold Washington.
Local Spotlights

Common's Obama Center Freestyle Honors Fred Hampton, Harold Washington

At the grand opening finale of the Obama Presidential Center, rapper Common delivered a surprise freestyle, name-dropping Chicago radical Fred Hampton alongside former presidents Joe Biden and George

Caitlin O'Malley· Jun 19· 2 min read
5 Boutique Villa Rentals Actually Worth Trying, Luxury Unique Places Included

5 Boutique Villa Rentals Actually Worth Trying, Luxury Unique Places Included

Sponsored by Luxury Unique Places · Aug 31
Dark storm clouds over a Southwest Side Chicago neighborhood with downed power lines and dark homes, signifying widespread power outages.

Southwest Side homes, businesses lose power amid severe storms

Caitlin O'Malley · Jun 12
The Obama Presidential Center's modern architecture with digital displays, set in a vibrant park on Chicago's South Side.

Obama Center announces June 19, 2026 opening

Caitlin O'Malley · Jun 9
People enjoying a sunny day at a crowded Chicago outdoor public pool with the city skyline in the background.

Chicago outdoor pools open June 19 with expanded hours

Caitlin O'Malley · Jun 9
Illinois State Capitol building at dusk with silhouettes of politicians, symbolizing the legislative defeat of the Chicago Bears stadium bill.

Illinois Senate blocks Bears stadium bill, session adjourns

With just over 24 hours left in the legislative session, the Chicago Bears' 'megaprojects bill' lacked the votes to pass the Illinois Senate, effectively killing the team's public-private stadium fina

Caitlin O'Malley· Jun 1· 3 min
Elegant dark green Parisian-style chairs are strategically placed near Buckingham Fountain in Chicago, enhancing the landmark's aesthetic for a 2026 pilot program.

Parisian-style chairs planned for Buckingham Fountain pilot

The Chicago Park District just shelled out $54,438 for 100 new green metal chairs, destined to grace Buckingham Fountain in 2026.

Caitlin O'Malley· May 31· 3 min