News from October 2024
Mayor announces six new candidates for Chicago Board of Education
By A. D. Nghiem | Oct 7, 2024
Mayor Brandon Johnson has announced new candidates for the Chicago Board of Education. The candidates are Olga Bautista, Michilla Blaise, Mary Gardner, Rev. Mitchell L. Ikenna Johnson, Deborah Pope, and Frank Niles Thomas.
UChicago team finds new way to detect atmospheres on distant exoplanets
By A. D. Nghiem | Oct 7, 2024
Researchers at the University of Chicago have developed a new method to determine if distant exoplanets possess atmospheres. This study, led by PhD student Qiao Xue and Professor Jacob Bean's group, promises a simpler and more efficient approach than previous techniques. The method holds potential for understanding atmosphere formation patterns when applied to more planets.
Northwestern experts discuss voter suppression ahead of presidential election
By A. D. Nghiem | Oct 7, 2024
With the U.S. Presidential election approaching, concerns have emerged over efforts to purge voter rolls in key battleground states. The Department of Justice is investigating potential violations of federal rules regarding registered voter lists.
Larenz Tate to speak at Chicago's Building Wealth Today for Tomorrow Summit
By A. D. Nghiem | Oct 8, 2024
The Office of the Chicago Treasurer has announced that Larenz Tate, known for his work as an actor, director, producer, and activist, will be the keynote speaker at the Building Wealth Today for Tomorrow (BWTT) Financial Empowerment Summit. The event is scheduled for Saturday, October 12, 2024, at the UIC Forum.
New students bring diverse perspectives as they join University of Chicago community
By A. D. Nghiem | Oct 8, 2024
As the Autumn Quarter begins at the University of Chicago, a diverse group of new students are eager to start their academic journeys. These students come from various backgrounds and locations across the United States, bringing unique perspectives to the UChicago community.
UChicago composer debuts new orchestral work at New York Philharmonic
By A. D. Bamburg | Oct 8, 2024
For University Professor Augusta "Gusty" Read Thomas, each new composition is an exploration. Her latest orchestral work, Bebop Kaleidoscope—Homage to Duke Ellington, premiered at the New York Philharmonic on September 19, 2024. Guest conductor Ken-David Masur led the performance. The piece was commissioned by the New York Philharmonic as offered by Patrick Castillo, vice president of artistic planning.
UIC opens early voting site for presidential election
By A. D. Bamburg | Oct 8, 2024
Voting for the 2024 presidential election will commence at the University of Illinois Chicago (UIC) on Monday, October 21, and continue through Election Day on Tuesday, November 5. The polling station is situated in Room 613 in the Tower at the north end of Student Center East. It will operate weekdays from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m., Saturdays from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Sundays from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Residents of Chicago can vote on campus, while resources are available for those residing outside the city.
Chicagoland Chamber members honored in Crain's 40 Under 40 list
By A. D. Nghiem | Oct 8, 2024
Several members of the Chicagoland Chamber of Commerce have been recognized in Crain's annual 40 Under 40 list. This list honors "executives, founders, creators, and strategists" who are "leading Chicago into the future," according to the publication.
Chicago announces $1.5B bond refinancing aiming at $110M savings
By A. D. Nghiem | Oct 8, 2024
The City of Chicago, led by Mayor Brandon Johnson, has announced a significant financial maneuver aimed at reducing its debt burden. The Finance Committee recently gave the green light to an ordinance allowing the city to issue $1.5 billion in General Obligation (GO) bonds and for the Sales Tax Securitization Corporation (STSC) to issue STSC bonds. This move is designed to refinance or tender certain outstanding City GO and STSC bonds.
Chicago treasurer discusses financial summit on WGN Radio
By A. D. Bamburg | Oct 8, 2024
Chicago Treasurer Melissa Conyears-Ervin recently appeared on WGN's The John Williams Show to discuss the Building Wealth Today for Tomorrow Financial Education & Empowerment Summit. This annual event is a key initiative from her office, aiming to provide financial education and empowerment to Chicagoans.
UChicago scientists develop molecules potentially halting cancer growth
By A. D. Bamburg | Oct 9, 2024
Researchers at the University of Chicago have developed a new synthetic molecule that shows promise in targeting transcription factors, proteins that enable cancer to spread throughout the body. This breakthrough, published in Nature Chemical Biology, could lead to new treatment options for cancer.
UChicago alum shares Nobel Prize for breakthrough AI model predicting protein structures
By A. D. Bamburg | Oct 9, 2024
University of Chicago alumnus John Jumper has been awarded a share of the 2024 Nobel Prize in Chemistry. The accolade, announced on October 9, recognizes his contribution to developing an AI model that predicts the complex folded structures of proteins.
UIC launches Campus Climate Survey for community feedback
By A. D. Bamburg | Oct 9, 2024
The University of Illinois Chicago (UIC) is initiating its Campus Climate Survey as part of its efforts to enhance diversity, equity, and inclusion. This survey is aimed at gathering insights from the university community to inform these initiatives.
City treasurer hosts financial empowerment summit in Chicago
By A. D. Bamburg | Oct 9, 2024
Chicago City Treasurer Melissa Conyears-Ervin has been committed to financial empowerment since assuming office in 2019.
New soft material may revolutionize medical devices and wearable tech
By A. D. Nghiem | Oct 9, 2024
Researchers at Northwestern University have developed a new soft, sustainable electroactive material with potential applications in medical devices, wearable technology, and human-computer interfaces. The study was published in the journal Nature on October 9.
Chicago City Council approves multiple housing initiatives and urban development plans
By A. D. Bamburg | Oct 9, 2024
The Chicago City Council has introduced and approved several measures, impacting various sectors within the city. These measures include support for residential conversions, funding for housing projects, and rehabilitation of properties.
Study reveals diverse virus populations on household items
By A. D. Bamburg | Oct 9, 2024
Researchers from Northwestern University have uncovered a surprising diversity of viruses residing in everyday bathroom items such as showerheads and toothbrushes. The study, published in the journal Frontiers in Microbiomes, revealed over 600 different viruses, most of which were previously unknown. These viruses are bacteriophages, or "phage," which infect bacteria but do not pose a threat to humans.
Victor Love launches Let's Go For A Ride podcast
By Southland Marquee | Oct 9, 2024
Victor Love, a Chicago businessman, has announced the launch of his new podcast, Let's Go For a Ride, to begin in the fall of 2024 with local figures.
Jesse Jackson, Operation Push endorse Fioretti
By Southland Marquee | Oct 9, 2024
Rev. Jesse Jackson, founder of Operation Push organization in Chicago, has publicly endorsed Republican candidate Bob Fioretti for Cook County State's Attorney in the upcoming November election.
Chicago mayor leads mission to London for economic growth opportunities
By A. D. Nghiem | Oct 10, 2024
Mayor Brandon Johnson and World Business Chicago are in London to promote Chicago as a prime location for international business growth, focusing on fintech, insurtech, climate, and healthcare sectors. The visit aims to strengthen ties with investors by highlighting Chicago's diverse workforce and strong global connectivity.