Good afternoon! Tomorrow’s forecast is a balmy 40 degrees, but colder weather is on the horizon, arriving early in the new year. Here’s your daily news digest:
1. Lil Durk’s Lyrics Used in Murder-for-Hire Case: Rapper Lil Durk’s music, which often depicts Chicago’s street violence, has inadvertently become central to a federal murder-for-hire case. Prosecutors are attempting to use his lyrics as evidence that he orchestrated a plot to kill a rival in Los Angeles. Experts and civil liberties advocates, however, argue this strategy represents a dangerous trend that threatens free speech and unfairly stigmatizes an art form. Ed Yohnka of the ACLU of Illinois emphasizes that criminal proceedings should focus on actions, not artistic expression. Lil Durk is accused of putting a bounty on Quando Rondo and then releasing a song seemingly capitalizing on the resulting ambush, which killed Rondo’s cousin. He faces a life sentence. [Chicago Sun-Times]
2. Illinois Politicians Remember Jimmy Carter: Following the death of former President Jimmy Carter, Illinois elected officials offered condolences and reflected on his impactful life and legacy. Tributes highlighted his service as president, his unwavering decency, and his commitment to peace. Former President Obama lauded Carter’s personal integrity, while Senators Durbin and Duckworth praised his public service. Mayor Brandon Johnson cited Carter as a personal inspiration, emphasizing his faith-based approach to politics. [Chicago Sun-Times]
3. Blackhawks Suffer Another Blowout Before Winter Classic: The Chicago Blackhawks suffered a crushing 5-1 defeat against the Dallas Stars, entering their highly anticipated Winter Classic game at Wrigley Field on a sour note. Ben Pope of the Chicago Sun-Times reports on the team’s poor form. Petr Mrazek is likely to start in goal against the St. Louis Blues, who also lost their final game before the Classic. The Winter Classic is scheduled for 4 p.m. tomorrow, with a forecast of morning rain and afternoon clouds, and a high of 40 degrees. [Chicago Sun-Times]
4. Chicago-Area Libraries Face ACLU Challenge Over Security Fees: The ACLU of Illinois has challenged the policies of Northbrook and Highland Park public libraries regarding additional security and insurance fees for room bookings. These fees, deemed unconstitutional by the ACLU, were implemented in response to anticipated protests, as seen with the cancellation of a documentary screening in Northbrook due to high fees. The ACLU argues that the libraries’ policies grant excessive discretion, potentially suppressing free speech. Both libraries plan to review their policies. [Chicago Sun-Times]
5. Ten Must-See January Concerts in Chicago: WBEZ contributor Mark Guarino presents a curated list of ten diverse January concerts in Chicago, showcasing a variety of genres from funk and soul to Afro-pop and bluegrass. Highlights include performances by Kindred the Family Soul and Pixies frontman Frank Black. For the complete list, see the provided link. [WBEZ]
Here’s what else is happening:
Chicago musician and activist Ric Wilson is preparing for his New Year’s Eve dance party, “America Runs On Disco,” at Lincoln Hall, celebrating disco’s inclusive spirit. His new single of the same name reflects on escapism and the movement’s historically diverse origins. [Vocalo]
Tell me something good…
What are you looking forward to in 2025? I’m planning an ambitious trip to nine countries before my 30th birthday! Share your excitement – your response might be featured in next week’s newsletter.
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