Chicago News Roundup: December 31, 2024
Good afternoon, and Happy New Year’s Eve! The newsletter will take a break tomorrow, but I’ll be back in your inbox on Thursday. Here’s what you need to know today:
1. Decreasing Crime, Drying Funds: While Chicago may end the year with fewer than 600 homicides for the first time since 2019, violence prevention groups are concerned about dwindling grant money. Despite a 7% decrease in shootings and murders compared to 2023, according to Chicago Police Department data, this lags behind the national average decrease of 10% to 15%. While murders have decreased 29% since 2021, and other violent crimes are also falling, not all areas are experiencing progress. Little Village and some North Side neighborhoods have seen significant increases in violent crime, attributed by Chicago Police Superintendent Larry Snelling to intensified gang conflict and shifting crime patterns. [Chicago Sun-Times]
2. Chicago’s Creative Breakthroughs of 2024: WBEZ highlights 16 Chicago creatives whose impactful work in music, art, and theater defined 2024. From contemporary classical composer Ayanna Woods, whose music has been performed by renowned ensembles, to Jon Michael Hill, the youngest actor ever invited to join Steppenwolf Theatre’s ensemble, the list showcases a diverse range of talent tackling both lighthearted and serious themes. [WBEZ]
3. Ald. Jim Gardiner Settles Social Media Blocking Case: Alderman Jim Gardiner has settled a lawsuit alleging he violated the First Amendment rights of six Northwest Side residents by blocking them and deleting their comments on his government social media account. While he didn’t admit wrongdoing, he agreed to pay a total of $157,500 in settlement. [Chicago Tribune]
4. Bally’s to Sell Chicago Casino Ownership Stakes to Women and Minority Investors: Bally’s is poised to sell ownership stakes in its forthcoming Chicago megacasino to women and minority investors. This move is expected to help finance the $250 million project, slated to open in 2026. The initial public offering awaits final approval from the SEC. [Chicago Sun-Times]
5. Sober-Curious Chicagoans Embrace Booze-Free Bars: With the rise of alcohol abstinence, particularly among Gen Z, and the increasing popularity of Dry January, Chicago bars and cafes are catering to the growing demand for non-alcoholic beverages. Alcohol-free bottle shops and bars featuring mocktails and alternative drinks are experiencing increased business, indicating a shift in social drinking habits. [Chicago Sun-Times]
Here’s What Else is Happening:
ABC7’s Cheryl Scott and Terrell Brown will reprise their popular, choreographed Countdown Chicago dance video for New Year’s Eve, a tradition born from an impromptu on-air dance-off. [Chicago Sun-Times]
Tell Me Something Good…
What are you excited about for 2025?
* My colleague Molly is looking forward to a winter visit to Matthiessen State Park near Starved Rock.
* My colleague Jennifer is throwing a 20th birthday party for their family cat!
Feel free to email me your response; it may be included in the newsletter this week.
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