#chicago

Chicago Bridges Stuck Open Due to Extreme Heat, Traffic Disruptions Reported Two major bridges in Chicago became stuck in their raised positions on Wednesday due to heat-related malfunctions, causing significant traffic delays and prompting emergency responses from city officials. The DuSable Lake Shore Drive Bridge and the Torrence Avenue Bridge both experienced issues, with crews working for several hours to restore normal operations. The incidents occurred amid a heat advisory, with temperatures reaching 90 degrees, exacerbating the mechanical problems. The DuSable Lake Shore Drive Bridge, which spans the Chicago River, was lifted for a planned event to allow a large yacht to pass beneath. Around 10 a.m., the bridge encountered a heat-related issue that prevented it from fully closing. Crews spent the next several hours attempting to lower the structure, with the Chicago Fire Department using boats to spray water on the bridge to cool it down. Despite efforts, the bridge remained partially open until shortly after 2:30 p.m., when it was finally lowered and reopened to traffic. The Torrence Avenue Bridge, located over the Calumet River on the Far South Side, became stuck in the raised position late Wednesday afternoon. The city’s Office of Emergency Management and Communications confirmed the issue via social media at 6:20 p.m., urging drivers to avoid the area and use alternate routes. According to Erica Schroeder, director of public affairs for the Chicago Department of Transportation, the problem was caused by thermal expansion from the high temperatures. Crews returned the bridge to its normal position by 5:30 p.m., after it had been stuck for over an hour. The DuSable Lake Shore Drive Bridge had previously faced similar issues.#chicago #duable_lake_shore_drive_bridge #torrence_avenue_bridge #chicago_fire_department #chicago_department_of_transportation

There’s Still Room at Chicago’s Table for Ye Mary L. Datcher writes that to understand Kanye West, one must first grasp the essence of Black Chicago and its unapologetic history in a segregated city. The article highlights how Chicago’s legacy of Black innovation and resilience shaped West’s identity, from his early years growing up on the South Side to his rise as a global cultural icon. Chicago was West’s biggest champion, the article states, even as the city faced challenges like segregation, gang activity, and systemic inequality. Growing up in a predominantly Black neighborhood, West experienced the sacrifices his mother, Dr. Donda West, made to survive. Dr. West, a professor at Chicago State University, instilled in him confidence, pride, and a belief in his potential. The piece describes how the city’s history of Black entrepreneurship and political leadership—such as Harold Washington becoming Chicago’s first Black mayor—acted as a backdrop to his development. It also references the city’s complex social landscape, where gang activity, police brutality, and economic hardship coexisted with Black creativity and community resilience. The article draws on a metaphor of a “table” built by Black Chicago pioneers. It notes that the city’s founding was marked by the contributions of figures like Jean Baptiste Point du Sable, who built the table; Ida B. Wells, who wove the tablecloth; Robert Sengstacke Abbott, who brought the chairs; and Fred Hampton Sr. and Rev. Jesse L. Jackson Sr., who added fearlessness and hope. This table symbolized Black pride and became a cornerstone of Chicago, where writers, artists, faith leaders, grassroots organizers, and political leaders found a place. West’s music and public persona reflect this duality, the article explains.#chicago #ida_b_wells #kanye_west #mary_l_datcher #dr_donda_west

Ye Is Unrecognizable From the ‘Old Kanye’ Arionne Nettles, a writer and editor for WBEZ and the Chicago Sun-Times, reflects on her evolving relationship with Kanye West’s music and cultural impact. Her journey began with the rapper’s early work, which she found deeply resonant during her college years. The “College Dropout” album, in particular, captured her imagination with its blend of creativity, humor, and defiance. She recalls being drawn to the album’s themes of navigating life’s challenges, especially as she herself was grappling with the transition from college to adulthood. The album’s raw energy and artistic boldness stood in contrast to the pressures of conformity, making it a source of inspiration for her. Nettles’ admiration for Kanye was further shaped by his cultural significance as a Black artist in Chicago. She notes that Kanye, the son of a respected Chicago college professor, embodied a duality—both a product of the city’s intellectual traditions and a figure who challenged norms. His work, she argues, reflected a creative distinctiveness that resonated with her own love for Jay-Z’s “The Blueprint.” This connection to Chicago’s cultural landscape was central to her appreciation of Kanye’s music, which she saw as a bridge between personal experience and broader societal narratives. However, Nettles’ perspective shifted over time as Kanye’s public persona evolved. She recalls his early years as a voice for Black communities, exemplified by his 2005 outburst on live television, where he criticized then-president George W. Bush for allegedly neglecting Black Americans. For many, this moment symbolized Kanye’s role as a bold, unapologetic advocate for his community. Yet, as his career progressed, Nettles observes a transformation in his public statements and actions.#chicago #chance_the_rapper #kanye_west #virgil_abloh #arionne_netttles

Rahm Emanuel: Democratic Socialists Not Part of Democratic Party, Should Run Separately Rahm Emanuel, former White House chief of staff and Illinois congressman, has publicly stated that he does not consider Democratic Socialists to be part of the Democratic Party. During an interview on "FOX News Sunday," Emanuel emphasized that the group should run as a separate political entity if they are confident in their platform. He criticized the idea of integrating Democratic Socialists into the existing party structure, arguing that the Democratic Party is "not open to being taken over" by such a faction. Emanuel highlighted the need for a robust intellectual debate within the Democratic Party to address systemic issues affecting middle-class families, such as the "rigged system" that disadvantages them. He called for a discussion on how to restore the American Dream by ensuring affordable housing, retirement savings, education, and healthcare. While acknowledging the progressive wing’s contributions, he stressed that the party must also balance pragmatic solutions, such as investing in energy infrastructure and implementing policies like banning public office for individuals over 75 or restricting social media access for children under 16. The former Chicago mayor also dismissed the notion that Democratic Socialists are part of the party, citing their 2019 convention in Chicago as evidence of their separate identity. He listed their policy positions—defunding police, releasing prisoners, opening borders, and eliminating the Pentagon—as examples of their distinct agenda. Emanuel challenged the group to "put it on the ballot" and compete independently, suggesting that their ideas would only gain traction if they ran as a separate party.#fox_news_sunday #democratic_party #chicago #rahm_emanuel #democratic_socialists

Severe Thunderstorm Watches and Warnings Issued as Chicago Area Prepares for Storms A severe thunderstorm watch has been issued for multiple Chicago-area counties, with additional warnings and forecasts indicating the potential for significant weather impacts over the weekend. The National Weather Service (NWS) has issued alerts for southeastern Cook County, southeastern DuPage County, and northwestern Will County, with the severe thunderstorm warning in effect until 3:15 p.m. Local meteorologist Claudia Olech provided an update on Sunday’s forecast, highlighting the likelihood of multiple rounds of showers and storms affecting the region. The NWS reported that a severe storm over the Roseland neighborhood in Chicago is moving eastward at 45 miles per hour, with the potential to impact areas such as Orland Park, Tinley Park, Plainfield, Chicago Lawn, and Oak Forest. These locations could experience wind gusts reaching up to 60 miles per hour. The storm’s trajectory suggests it may bring heavy rainfall, which could lead to localized flooding, as well as large hail, gusty winds, and a non-zero risk of tornadoes. Severe thunderstorm watches have been extended for DuPage and Cook counties until 4 p.m., with existing watches expiring in McHenry and Lake counties. A separate watch has also been issued for LaPorte County in northwest Indiana, remaining in effect until 6 p.m. Central time. Forecast models indicate that a round of showers and storms is expected to move through the area late Sunday morning and into the afternoon, with the most significant impacts likely in regions west and north of Chicago. The entire Chicago area is under a “slight” risk of severe weather on Sunday, which is the second of five levels of severe risk designated by the Storm Prediction Center.#national_weather_service #chicago #claudia_olech #roseland #orland_park

Daniel Caesar Conquers Stage Despite Broken Ankle on "Son of Spergy" Tour Daniel Caesar defied expectations by delivering a powerful performance at Chicago’s United Center on Sunday night, despite sustaining a broken ankle that required him to navigate the stage using a knee scooter. Fans who feared his injury might hinder his show were quickly reassured as he launched into his first song, “Rain Down,” with his signature vocal prowess. The 23,500-seat venue was packed, with lines stretching down the block to secure tickets, and the audience remained fully engaged throughout the evening. Caesar’s performance emphasized his strengths as a vocalist, showcasing a studio-like quality that set him apart from artists who rely on elaborate stagecraft. His ability to replicate his recorded sound was evident in tracks like “Who Knows” and “Sins Of The Father (feat. Bon Iver),” both of which featured a 16-person choir. The choir’s harmonies added depth to his set, mirroring the layered arrangements of his studio recordings. Caesar also highlighted the choir’s role in enhancing the immersive experience, ensuring his live show remained faithful to his artistic vision. The evening began with an impressive opener by indie singer-songwriter Faye Webster, whose set drew enthusiastic responses from the crowd. Webster’s guitar playing was the standout element of her performance, and her songs “Kingston” and “Jonny” elicited widespread sing-alongs, suggesting a strong connection with the audience. Many attendees appeared to be there for both Webster and Caesar, underscoring the appeal of the night’s lineup. Caesar expressed deep gratitude for the audience’s support, declaring, “I just want to tell you guys that I love my job, and I love my life.#chicago #daniel_caesar #chicago_united_center #faye_webster #son_of_spergy

Joan Cusack Reveals Why She Stopped Acting for Years Joan Cusack, the acclaimed actress known for her roles in Working Girl and In & Out, has shared the reasons behind her extended hiatus from Hollywood. At the premiere of Toy Story 5, the 63-year-old star made a rare public appearance, explaining that she chose to step away from acting for much of the past decade to prioritize a balanced, ordinary life. Cusack emphasized her decision to focus on family and personal fulfillment, stating, “It’s also great to live your life and raise your kids and be in Chicago and be a normal person.” She described the experience as “kind of priceless,” highlighting her satisfaction with the choice to leave the spotlight behind. The event marked her first major red-carpet appearance in 11 years and her return to acting after a six-year absence. Her return to the screen came through her role as Jessie, the beloved cowgirl character in Toy Story 5. Cusack, who first voiced Jessie in Toy Story 2, admitted she never anticipated continuing to portray the character over 25 years later. “I just thought they cast me because they thought it was gonna be funny to have a cowgirl with the Chicago accent,” she recalled. She described her involvement as limited to a few lines and scenes, a far cry from her earlier expectations. Beyond her work on Toy Story, Cusack has remained active in her hometown of Chicago, where she has operated the Judy Maxwell Home gift shop since 2014. The business, named after her mother, has become a local fixture, reflecting her commitment to community engagement. Cusack’s filmography spans over four decades, including iconic roles in Sixteen Candles, Addams Family Values, School of Rock, Runaway Bride, and the acclaimed series Shameless.#chicago #toy_story_5 #joan_cusack #judy_maxwell_home #working_girl

Air India Looks to Suspend Flights to Key Foreign Destinations Such as Chicago Air India, the Tata Group-promoted airline, is considering temporarily suspending flights to major international destinations like Chicago due to persistently high Aviation Turbine Fuel (ATF) prices, according to industry sources. The decision comes amid stalled negotiations between airlines and oil marketing companies (OMCs) on measures to alleviate the burden of international jet fuel costs, which have significantly impacted overseas operations. The airline’s plan to reduce flight frequencies or suspend services to certain routes is part of a broader strategy to address financial losses in unprofitable long-haul sectors. Industry insiders revealed that discussions on fuel pricing relief, particularly regarding the crack spread mechanism for setting international ATF prices, have not yielded any substantial progress. This lack of resolution has intensified pressure on airlines operating ultra-long and long-haul routes, where fuel costs constitute a major portion of operating expenses. A senior Air India executive, speaking on condition of anonymity, confirmed that the airline has been engaging with OMCs for several weeks to explore potential solutions. However, the executive noted that no meaningful advancements have been made, prompting the airline to take proactive measures. “We cannot wait any longer, so yes, there will be some frequency cuts,” the official stated, highlighting the urgency of the situation. The airline is reportedly evaluating additional cuts across its international network for June, July, and August as part of a rationalization effort.#air_india_express #chicago #air_india #tata_group #international_jet_fuel_prices

Paramount Schedules The Chi Season 8 Premiere for May 22 Paramount+ announced on April 23, 2026, that the eighth and final season of the drama series The Chi will premiere on Friday, May 22. The 10-episode concluding chapter of the Chicago-based story will release new installments weekly on the streaming platform's Premium Plan. Created by Lena Waithe, the series holds the distinction of being the longest-running Black drama in premium cable history. The final season follows a renewal announcement in May 2025 and will depict the characters facing significant life decisions during the city's coldest winter yet, as reported by ScreenRant and AOL. Waithe, who also serves as executive producer, expressed the gravity of the show's legacy during the announcement of its conclusion. "To helm the longest-running Black drama on television is a huge honor and it’s something I don’t take lightly," said Lena Waithe, Creator. The production lead emphasized that ending the narrative now serves the integrity of the ensemble cast and the story established since its 2018 debut. "For the sake of our story and our characters, it’s the right thing. I am committed to delivering a final season that our Chi Family deserves," said Lena Waithe, Creator. A newly released teaser trailer features a narration reflecting on the inevitable conclusion of the long-running narrative. "Life comes at you fast, whether you're ready for it or not. Everything has to come to an end," narrated the teaser voiceover. The upcoming season's logline suggests a high-stakes finale involving legacy and conflict among the residents of the South Side. "As The Chi enters its eighth and final season and its coldest winter ever, life or death choices must be made. The question becomes, who is willing to make them? Legacy, conflict, joy, and pain.#paramount_plus #chicago #south_side #the_chi #lena_waithe

Paramount's The Chi Concludes Its Eight-Season Run with Final Season Launching May 22 The long-running series The Chi, created by Lena Waithe, is set to conclude its eight-season journey with the debut of its final season on May 22, 2025. The show, which premiered on Showtime in January 2018, has been a cornerstone of premium cable television, known for its exploration of life in a Chicago neighborhood and its groundbreaking representation of Black stories. Following its transition to Paramount+ with Showtime in January 2024, the series was renewed for an eighth season in May 2025. This renewal was swiftly followed by the announcement that season 8 would mark the show’s final chapter, a decision that has been celebrated as both a milestone and a natural conclusion to its narrative arc. The eighth season, consisting of 10 episodes, will premiere exclusively on Paramount+ with the Premium Plan, releasing new episodes weekly. The release date was revealed through a teaser that features footage from previous seasons and glimpses of the upcoming season, accompanied by the narration: “Life comes at you fast, whether you’re ready for it or not. Everything has to come to an end.” This teaser underscores the show’s thematic focus on the challenges and complexities of urban life, as well as the inevitability of change. The final season promises to deliver the “coldest winter yet” for the characters, as they face life-or-death decisions that will shape their fates. The Chi follows a group of characters navigating the South Side of Chicago, a setting that has become synonymous with the series’ exploration of community, resilience, and systemic challenges. The cast includes Jacob Latimore as Emmett Washington, Birgundi Baker as Kiesha Williams, Luke James as Victor “Trig” Taylor, Shamon Brown Jr. as Stanley “Papa” Jackson, Michael V.#paramount #chicago #showtime #lenawaithe #thechi

Chicago Sees Tornado Warnings and Flooding Threats Amid Severe Weather Outbreak Residents across parts of Illinois and Wisconsin braced for severe weather as tornado warnings and flood alerts swept through the region on Saturday, April 18, 2026. The National Weather Service issued multiple alerts, including tornado warnings for Kankakee, Kendall, Will, and LaSalle counties, while severe thunderstorm and flash flood warnings covered a wide swath of the Midwest. The storm system, which began moving into the Chicago area in the late afternoon, brought heavy rain, strong winds, and the potential for tornadoes, prompting officials to urge caution and preparedness. The weather service activated a Tornado Warning for Grundy, Kankakee, Kendall, Livingston, and Will counties until 10:15 p.m., and for LaSalle and Livingston counties until 9:45 p.m. Severe Thunderstorm Warnings were also in effect for Cook, DuPage, Kane, Kendall, and Will counties, as well as other areas, with some regions facing a Level 3 Risk for severe weather. The Storm Prediction Center noted that most of the Chicago area was under a Level 3 Risk, except for Northwest Indiana, which was designated a Level 2 Risk. Tornado damage was reported in Lena, Illinois, prompting Governor JB Pritzker to declare that the Illinois Emergency Management Agency (IEMA) was on standby to assist affected communities. “IEMA is on the ground and in communication with officials to offer our full support,” Pritzker stated. “Please follow any local guidance and stay safe.” The storm system also disrupted transportation, with O’Hare International Airport implementing ground stops and delays. A Ground Stop for O’Hare took effect at 8:16 p.m. and lasted until 9:45 p.m., while a Ground Delay was in place from 8 p.m. until 2 a.m. Saturday.#national_weather_service #illinois #chicago #ohare_international_airport #des_plaines_river

San Diego Flight Delays Ripple Across Major US Hubs Flight delays at San Diego International Airport on April 12 triggered missed connections and rolling disruptions across major US hubs, straining already busy spring travel. The incident highlighted how even relatively minor schedule changes at a single airport can cascade through the national air network, affecting passengers and operations far beyond the immediate vicinity. The disruptions began with a series of delayed departures and arrivals at San Diego International Airport, which serves as a key West Coast origin and destination point. While the number of affected flights remained modest compared to the country’s busiest hubs, the timing of the delays—during peak departure windows—amplified their impact. Many flights from San Diego were bound for major domestic hubs such as Los Angeles, Dallas, Chicago, and Denver. When early outbound services departed behind schedule, later flights reliant on the same aircraft or incoming crews faced knock-on issues, creating a ripple effect across the day. The airport’s single-runway configuration, a long-standing structural constraint, played a significant role in the delays. San Diego’s limited physical footprint and restricted space for holding aircraft meant that even small schedule perturbations were harder to absorb. A sequence of delayed morning and midday departures quickly compressed later time slots, leaving airlines with fewer options to recover time before aircraft headed onward to larger hubs. This dynamic was exacerbated by the airport’s reliance on a single runway, which can slow operations during periods of low visibility or shifting wind patterns. The effects of the San Diego delays were felt hours later on the other side of the country.#los_angeles #chicago #denver #dallas #san_diego_international_airport

First Alert Forecast: Severe Weather Threat Decreasing, Scattered Storms Overnight A cold front moving eastward into Northern Indiana through the evening has prompted a First Alert Weather Day, with the severe weather threat gradually diminishing. While temperatures initially remained in the 30s across the region, most areas have warmed into the 60s and low 70s. This slow temperature rise has also slowed the process of atmospheric destabilization, though the risk of severe weather persists in certain areas. The National Weather Service has issued updates throughout the evening, highlighting the evolving situation. At 9:21 PM, the severe weather threat continued to decrease across the region. Pockets of heavy rain, thunder rumbles, and gusty winds are expected to be the primary weather impacts over the next few hours. A secondary line of storms moving through the Chicago area is anticipated to weaken significantly as they approach the region after midnight. At 7:45 PM, meteorologists emphasized the ongoing monitoring of radar activity, particularly west of Fort Wayne, where the odds of a storm developing into a strong or severe system are slightly higher. The biggest risks remain damaging wind gusts and an isolated tornado. The severe threat is expected to decrease substantially after around 9 or 10 PM. A Tornado Watch may be issued shortly, according to updates at 6:30 PM. The original article was posted at 6:00 PM, noting that the cold front’s progression through the evening would create conditions for potential severe weather. While the region experienced a slow warm-up, the combination of warm temperatures and lingering moisture could still lead to localized instability.#national_weather_service #chicago #fort_wayne #21alive #mattleach21aliveweather

U.S. Immigration Crackdown Immigration Slowdown Hits Every Metro Area in the U.S., Census Shows Large urban counties and border regions faced the most significant declines in immigration, according to new data from the Census Bureau. The report reveals that in three-quarters of U.S. counties, population growth either slowed or turned negative, marking a sharp contrast to recent trends. In the Laredo metro area along the Texas border, immigration effectively halted, with no net gain in residents. Similarly, El Centro, a historically key entry point into California, saw more people leaving for other countries than arriving. In Denver and its suburbs, the net immigration rate dropped by nearly 75 percent, while the Chicago area experienced a nearly two-thirds decline. Every U.S. metro area recorded lower immigration rates during the year ending July 2025 compared to the previous year, according to the Census Bureau’s latest estimates. This trend affected both large urban centers and border regions, which had previously seen surges in new arrivals. The data highlights a nationwide shift, with only 25 percent of counties experiencing faster population growth. The report underscores the impact of stricter immigration policies and changing global migration patterns, as the U.S. grapples with declining international arrivals. The findings, released on Thursday, provide a comprehensive snapshot of demographic shifts across the country. While domestic migration, births, and deaths continue to influence population trends, the sharp decline in net international immigration signals a major turning point in U.S. migration dynamics.#chicago #denver #census_bureau #laredo #el_centro

A-Abel Roofing Addresses Hail Damage Concerns with Specialized Storm Restoration Services in Illinois As severe weather events increasingly impact communities across Illinois, A-Abel Roofing is emphasizing its expertise in hail damage roof repair and storm restoration services to assist homeowners in recovering from storm-related damage. The company is working to provide timely solutions, including inspections, repairs, and insurance claim support, to ensure property owners can restore their roofs efficiently. Hailstorms can cause extensive damage to roofing systems, often leading to issues such as cracked shingles, weakened structural integrity, and potential water leaks. These problems, if left unaddressed, can escalate into costly repairs. A-Abel Roofing is responding to these challenges by offering comprehensive services, including professional hail damage inspections, storm damage repairs, and full roof replacements for homeowners in the region. The company is also helping property owners navigate the complexities of storm damage recovery by providing guidance on identifying and addressing hail-related issues promptly. A spokesperson for A-Abel Roofing stated, “Our goal is to help homeowners recognize hail damage early and restore their roofs before minor issues develop into major repairs. Severe storms can compromise a roof’s integrity, and our team works closely with homeowners to ensure reliable inspections, repairs, and replacements when needed.” A-Abel Roofing’s services include a range of residential roofing solutions, such as hail damage assessments, storm damage repairs, roof replacements, and inspections following hailstorms. These services are designed to protect homes while simplifying the process of recovering from storm-related damage.#illinois #chicago #a_abel_roofing #naperville #aurora

Two Chicago Men Charged with Murder of 67-Year-Old Near United Center A 67-year-old man was fatally shot Tuesday afternoon on the Near West Side of Chicago, and two suspects were arrested shortly after the incident, according to police. The victim, identified as Jerry Lewis, was struck in the head during a confrontation on the 2100 block of West Madison Street, near the United Center. Nassie Mason, 28, and Erving Harris, 31, were taken into custody around 12:50 p.m. by Chicago police. Witnesses reported that Lewis was heading to the door of an adjacent office building he owned when he was approached by the suspects. A witness inside the building said she went to open the door for Lewis when she saw Mason and Harris exit a Honda. Mason approached Lewis from behind as he was about to enter the building and fired a single shot into his head. The witness described hearing additional gunshots before fleeing to safety. Surveillance footage from across the street captured the suspects exiting the stolen Honda and approaching Lewis from behind. The video shows Mason firing one shot, followed by Harris firing three more rounds into Lewis. Both suspects then fled the scene but were intercepted by six police officers. Mason attempted to reload his weapon but failed, dropping it before running east and being detained. Harris took a few steps toward his car, then dropped his gun and raised his hands in surrender. Lewis was transported to a local hospital but was pronounced dead from his injuries. The Honda used in the crime was reported stolen in early March, and its license plates were also stolen from another vehicle, according to court documents. Both suspects have prior criminal records. Harris was on parole for vehicular hijacking at the time of his arrest.#chicago #united_center #nassie_mason #erving_harris #jerry_lewis

Two men accused of assassinating a business leader tied to the United Center development project were arrested after a fatal shooting near the arena. Chicago police officers witnessed the attack and swiftly detained Nassie Mason and Erving Harris, prosecutors confirmed. The incident occurred on March 24, 2026, when Jerry Lewis, a 67-year-old businessman involved in the massive development project, was shot while walking between his offices on the 2100 block of West Madison Street. According to Assistant State’s Attorney Mike Pekara, the two suspects exited a stolen Honda parked outside Lewis’ offices at 2127 W. Madison St. Mason, 28, fired a single shot to Lewis’ head, and Harris, 31, followed with three additional rounds. Six patrol officers who were stationed on Madison Street observed the suspects exiting the vehicle with latex gloves and witnessed the shooting as they approached their squad cars. The four shell casings recovered at the scene matched firearms found during the investigation, one of which had an extended magazine. Lewis was pronounced dead at Stroger Hospital. Surveillance footage allegedly shows Mason and Harris waiting outside the offices for 90 minutes before the attack. Pekara described the incident as an assassination, noting that the suspects acted with premeditation despite police being nearby. “We have two individuals assassinating the victim as we had police feet away,” Pekara stated during a detention hearing. Lewis’ offices were located in a secure building complex requiring a key or internal access to enter. He was shot while waiting to be let in by a secretary, who reportedly saw the attack unfold. The suspects were charged with first-degree murder and being a felon in possession of a weapon. Both men have prior criminal records.#chicago #united_center #nassie_mason #erving_harris #jerry_lewis

Jason Heyward announces retirement after 16 years in big leagues Jason Heyward, a World Series champion, five-time Gold Glove winner, and All-Star outfielder, officially retired from Major League Baseball after a 16-season career. The announcement came via MLB Central on Friday, marking the end of his journey with teams including the Braves, Cubs, Cardinals, Dodgers, Astros, and Padres. Known for his defensive prowess and leadership, Heyward’s career spanned over a decade, with his most iconic moments coming during his time with the Cubs from 2016 to 2022. Heyward’s professional journey began in 2010 when he debuted with the Atlanta Braves, a team that selected him in the 2007 first-round draft from Henry County High School in McDonough, Georgia. His rookie season was standout, as he posted a .277/.393/.456 slash line in 142 games, earning him a runner-up finish for NL Rookie of the Year behind Giants catcher Buster Posey. Over the next five years, he solidified his reputation as a top-tier defender, winning two Gold Glove Awards while playing for the Braves and Cardinals. His performance led to an eight-year, $184 million contract with the Cubs in 2016, then the largest free-agent deal in the team’s history. Despite his defensive excellence, Heyward’s offensive contributions were occasionally overshadowed. However, his impact extended beyond the field, particularly during the 2016 World Series. As the Cubs faced a rain delay in Game 7, Heyward delivered a motivational speech to his teammates, reminding them of their resilience and the team’s historic regular-season success. His words helped rally the squad, leading to a dramatic 10th-inning victory that broke a 108-year championship drought for the franchise.#atlanta_braves #chicago #cubs #jason_heyward #mlb_central

BP locks out more than 800 union workers at Whiting refinery after contract negotiations fail BP locked out over 800 union workers at its Whiting, Indiana refinery on Thursday, marking the largest inland refinery in the U.S. The move followed failed contract negotiations with the United Steelworkers Local 7-1, which the company claims rejected its proposals. BP stated the union must accept its March 17 contract offer to end the lockout, which has left most employee benefits inactive during the dispute. The union, represented by Eric Schultz, president of USW Local 7-1, accused BP of demanding significant concessions, including job cuts, pay reductions, and the loss of bargaining rights. Schultz criticized BP’s stance, stating the company rejected a proposal that accepted several of its demands after just four hours of discussion. The union denied BP’s claim that it had rejected the company’s proposals twice without offering counterpoints. Contract talks began earlier this year after the previous agreement expired on January 31. BP issued a revised six-year contract proposal on March 13, which included job restructuring affecting 20% of employees and reduced lump-sum compensation from $7,500 to $2,500. The company also planned to outsource maintenance tasks to specialized contractors, citing industry practices. The union condemned the revised offer, arguing it limited their ability to strike, removed bargaining rights, and imposed base wage cuts. Workers began picketing in Whiting, about 20 miles south of Chicago, at midnight on Thursday. Union members reported that access cards were deactivated as early as Wednesday, preventing entry to the facility. BP noted that approximately 450 non-union employees and 100 contractors would continue operating the refinery during the lockout.#chicago #bp #united_steelworkers_local_7_1 #whiting_indiana #eric_schultz

Pomerantz Law Firm Investigates GoDaddy Inc. for Securities Fraud Pomerantz LLP is conducting an investigation into potential securities fraud or unlawful business practices by GoDaddy Inc. (NYSE: GDDY) on behalf of affected investors. The law firm is urging investors to contact Danielle Peyton at newaction@pomlaw.com or 646-581-9980, ext. 7980 for more information. The investigation centers on GoDaddy’s financial disclosures and alleged misrepresentations regarding its business performance. On February 24, 2026, GoDaddy released its fourth-quarter and full-year 2025 financial results, including revenue guidance for 2026. The company projected revenue between $5.195 billion and $5.275 billion, which fell short of analyst expectations. During the announcement, GoDaddy also mentioned that promotional pricing strategies would lead to a “modest impact on reported revenue growth rates” for its Core Platform and A&C segments, as the discounted prices would be applied across all products purchased initially. Following the release, GoDaddy’s stock price dropped by $13.18 per share, or 14.28%, closing at $79.12 per share on February 25, 2026. The decline raised concerns among investors about the accuracy of the company’s financial forecasts and its transparency in addressing the effects of its pricing strategies. Pomerantz LLP, a prominent law firm based in New York, Chicago, Los Angeles, London, Paris, and Tel Aviv, specializes in corporate, securities, and antitrust class litigation. Founded by Abraham L. Pomerantz, a pioneer in securities class actions, the firm has a long history of representing victims of securities fraud, fiduciary breaches, and corporate misconduct. It has secured numerous multimillion-dollar settlements for class members over the past eight decades.#new_york #chicago #godaddy_inc #pomerantz_law_firm #danielle_peaton