News from October 2025
UIC shares updated food assistance options as federal aid rules change
By T. D. Mcguire | Oct 30, 2025
Beginning November 1, federal food-assistance program changes will affect many individuals in the University of Illinois Chicago (UIC) community.
Chicago Fed cites housing, transportation costs in city’s higher inflation rate
By D. E. Swan | Oct 30, 2025
The Federal Reserve Bank of Chicago has reported that inflation in the Chicago area has recently surpassed the national rate, primarily due to faster increases in housing and transportation costs.
Former Mayoral candidate on Chicago budget: 'It’s regressive, reckless, and a betrayal of Chicago's future’
By J. T. Matthews | Oct 30, 2025
Paul Vallas, a senior fellow at the Illinois Policy Institute, has expressed concerns regarding Mayor Brandon Johnson's 2026 budget proposal and the potential implementation of a congestion tax in Chicago.
University of Chicago scientists uncover genetic basis for butterfly wing pattern mimicry
By T. D. Mcguire | Oct 31, 2025
Researchers at the University of Chicago have published a study in PNAS that examines how a “supergene” called doublesex enables swallowtail butterflies (Papilio alphenor) to mimic the wing patterns of other, toxic butterfly species.
A look back at homecoming traditions at University of Chicago
By T. D. Mcguire | Oct 31, 2025
The University of Chicago has a long-standing connection to the tradition of Homecoming in the United States.
Chicagoland Chamber supports new legislation securing funding for public transit
By D. E. Swan | Oct 31, 2025
The Chicagoland Chamber of Commerce has expressed support for recently passed legislation that provides funding for the region’s public transit systems.
City Treasurer’s Office honors Greg Austin with Chicago Star Award
By F. K. Carey | Oct 31, 2025
Greg Austin, the owner of GCA Unlimited Apparel in Mt.
Chicago Mayor Johnson’s rideshare surcharge proposal draws scrutiny amid $1.15 billion budget gap
By J. T. Matthews | Oct 31, 2025
Mayor Brandon Johnson's plan to expand congestion surcharges on rideshare services like Uber and Lyft has sparked backlash from companies, riders and local commentators, who argue the increase would burden low-income residents and stifle economic growth in a city grappling with elevated inflation and a softening job market.
Chicago resident on rideshare services: 'With inflation going up, it’s like you’re going to add another tax on the people'
By F. K. Carey | Oct 31, 2025
A resident of Chicago expressed concerns over a proposed tax increase, stating it would exacerbate the financial strain on residents already dealing with rising prices.
City Council members raise concerns over proposed “jobs tax” in FY26 budget
By K. U. Butler | Oct 31, 2025
Several City Council members have recently voiced concerns about the proposed “jobs tax” and other aspects of Chicago’s FY26 City Budget.