News from October 2024
Northwestern launches partnership to improve access to speech-language services
By A. D. Bamburg | Oct 16, 2024
Northwestern University has initiated a community-based partnership aimed at improving access to speech and language services for preschool-aged children. The project, led by Marisha Speights from the Northwestern School of Communication, seeks to address racial inequities in current testing methods.
Taylor Street roadwork begins soon; expect traffic impacts until December
By A. D. Bamburg | Oct 17, 2024
The Chicago Department of Transportation is set to commence roadwork on Taylor Street, spanning from Western to Racine avenues. The project, which may start in the coming days, will involve street and bike lane resurfacing and restriping, as well as curb and gutter replacements and ADA sidewalk repairs. These activities are anticipated to impact vehicle, bicycle, and pedestrian traffic.
Chicagoland experts emphasize early preparation in business succession planning
By A. D. Nghiem | Oct 17, 2024
As business owners in the Chicagoland area approach retirement, the importance of a well-structured succession plan becomes evident. This process is crucial for ensuring the continuity of operations, preserving business value, and minimizing disruptions during ownership transitions.
Karriem Watson appointed executive director at UI Health Mile Square
By A. D. Nghiem | Oct 17, 2024
The UI Health Mile Square Health Center has announced the appointment of Karriem Watson, DHSc, MS, MPH, as its new executive director. His tenure is set to begin on December 1, 2024, pending approval from the University of Illinois Board of Trustees. Watson was chosen after a comprehensive national search that considered many qualified candidates for this leadership role.
University of Chicago's Botany Pond reopens after extensive restoration
By A. D. Bamburg | Oct 17, 2024
Botany Pond at the University of Chicago has reopened after a comprehensive restoration project aimed at preserving its historical significance and ensuring its sustainability for future generations. Originally conceived by botanist John Merle Coulter over a century ago as an outdoor research laboratory, the pond now offers a more sustainable environment for both wildlife and visitors.
Ethnomusicologist Philip V. Bohlman discusses 'doing good' through music at Humanities Day
By A. D. Nghiem | Oct 17, 2024
Prof. Philip V. Bohlman, a leading ethnomusicologist, will address the role of music in addressing global migration issues during his keynote speech at Humanities Day on October 26. Bohlman, who is the Ludwig Rosenberger Distinguished Service Professor and artistic director of the New Budapest Orpheum Society at the University of Chicago (UChicago), utilizes a multidisciplinary approach combining ethnography, historical research, and music performance.
Blackhawks recall Isaak Phillips; Alec Martinez placed on injured reserve
By A. D. Bamburg | Oct 17, 2024
The Chicago Blackhawks have announced the recall of defenseman Isaak Phillips from the Rockford IceHogs, a team in the American Hockey League. This move coincides with placing defenseman Alec Martinez on injured reserve due to a right groin injury.
Pat Maroon to miss practice for maintenance reasons
By A. D. Bamburg | Oct 18, 2024
Forward Pat Maroon will not participate in practice today. The absence is due to maintenance.
Chicago launches inaugural Fall Fest with diverse cultural celebrations
By A. D. Nghiem | Oct 18, 2024
Mayor Brandon Johnson has unveiled the Chicago Fall Fest, a two-week series of cultural and community events running from October 18 to November 3. The initiative aims to provide activities for Chicago residents of all ages, focusing on celebrations like Halloween and Día de los Muertos. Details about these events can be found on ChicagoFallFest.org.
One Summer Chicago employs nearly 28k youth during summer jobs program
By A. D. Nghiem | Oct 18, 2024
This week, Mayor Brandon Johnson announced that nearly 28,000 young people were employed through the One Summer Chicago (OSC) program during the summer of 2024. This marks a 12 percent increase from the previous year and a 39 percent rise since May 2023. The OSC initiative offers youth aged 14 to 24 paid work experiences for six weeks in collaboration with local businesses, community organizations, and city agencies.
Chicago invests heavily in infrastructure and youth programs in 28th Ward
By A. D. Nghiem | Oct 18, 2024
Today in Chicago, Mayor Brandon Johnson joined 28th Ward Alderman Jason Ervin and community leaders for the "Day in the Ward" event. This gathering allowed the mayor and his administration to engage with local officials, businesses, faith leaders, and residents about ongoing initiatives and future plans for the community.
RNA discovery offers new insights into autism and epilepsy
By A. D. Bamburg | Oct 18, 2024
Researchers from Northwestern Medicine and the Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard have identified a long non-coding RNA, CHASERR, which plays a crucial role in regulating protein production by the CHD2 gene. The absence of this RNA can lead to an overproduction of CHD2 protein, resulting in severe neurodevelopmental disorders such as autism and epilepsy.
Daley College discusses manufacturing future at FABTECH event
By A. D. Nghiem | Oct 18, 2024
Richard J. Daley College's leadership team recently participated in FABTECH, North America's premier event for metal forming, fabricating, welding, and finishing. President Janine Janosky, Dean of Engineering and Advanced Manufacturing David Girzadas, and Executive Director of Manufacturing Matters Steven Meneses represented the college.
Blackhawks extend Landon Slaggert's contract through the end of the 2026-27 season
By A. D. Bamburg | Oct 18, 2024
The Chicago Blackhawks have confirmed a two-year contract extension with forward Landon Slaggert. The agreement is set to last through the 2026-27 season, with a salary cap hit of $900,000.
Chicago reflects on decade since Laquan McDonald's death
By A. D. Nghiem | Oct 20, 2024
Ten years have passed since the tragic death of Laquan McDonald, and Chicago continues to strive for equitable community safety. Mayor Brandon Johnson reflected on this somber anniversary, acknowledging that "Laquan McDonald deserved better from the City of Chicago." The city has since made efforts to improve police accountability.
Michelle Collins honored with distinguished leadership award by Chicagoland Chamber
By A. D. Nghiem | Oct 21, 2024
Michelle Collins has been recognized for her significant contributions to Chicago's business and civic community. The Chicagoland Chamber of Commerce will honor her with the Award for Distinguished Leadership on November 19 at Hilton Chicago.
Chicago consolidates shelters into unified One System Initiative
By A. D. Bamburg | Oct 21, 2024
The City of Chicago is set to consolidate its New Arrivals shelter system as part of the transition towards a unified One System Initiative (OSI). This initiative aims to serve all residents in need of shelter. The current New Arrivals mission will conclude on December 31, 2024.
Chicago launches free backyard compost bin distribution for eligible residents
By A. D. Nghiem | Oct 21, 2024
Mayor Brandon Johnson, alongside the Departments of Streets and Sanitation (DSS) and Environment (DOE), has introduced a new initiative to distribute free backyard compost bins to Chicago residents. The program is aimed at households with four units or less, allowing them to apply for a bin via an online form. After confirming eligibility, city staff will deliver the bins directly to residents' homes. Initially, each ward in the city will receive 20 bins.
Selwyn Rogers joins National Academy of Medicine for contributions to trauma care
By A. D. Nghiem | Oct 21, 2024
Selwyn O. Rogers Jr., a distinguished professor of surgery at the University of Chicago, has been elected to the National Academy of Medicine. The announcement was made on October 21, marking his inclusion among 100 individuals in the 2024 class.
Northwestern University hosts briefing on state of local news report
By A. D. Bamburg | Oct 21, 2024
Professor Tim Franklin from Northwestern University will host a virtual briefing on October 23 to discuss the findings of the 2024 State of Local News report. The event, organized by the Medill Local News Initiative, will address the ongoing decline of local newspapers and the expansion of "news deserts" across America. These areas are characterized by limited or no access to reliable local news.