Chicago experiences a weekend of chaotic and disruptive gatherings, with hundreds of teenagers flooding the downtown area, smashing car windows, trying to get into Millennium Park, and attacking tourists. Multiple reports of gunshots were heard, leading to several injuries and arrests (NBC Chicago, Fox News, CBS News). Many of the activists and business owners are now calling for the reinstatement of last summer’s citywide curfew for minors after this incident (NBC Chicago).
On a more positive note, Illinois is now home to a new millionaire as one of the lottery players sold a ticket worth $1 million (NBC Chicago). Meanwhile, the state’s largest waterpark, Six Flags Hurricane Harbor, is set to open in June, giving residents and tourists a new summer attraction to look forward to (NBC Chicago).
In terms of weather, a late-season blizzard has slammed Wisconsin and brought snow to Chicago, leading to falling temperatures throughout the eastern United States all the way to the end of April (The Washington Post). Furthermore, the windy city has seen a snowy and windy start to the week, with low visibility and slushy, wet roads leading to several traffic incidents on Indiana Toll Road in Hammond (NBC Chicago, Fox 32 Chicago).
Chicago’s crime rate continues to be a problem as 38 people were shot over the weekend, 8 of which were fatally wounded, across various locations in the city (ABC7 Chicago). Meanwhile, Chicagoans are being warned about a new, highly transmissible COVID-19 variant called “Arcturus,” which brings another symptom, “COVID toes,” into the mix of potential indicators (NBC Chicago).
Despite the weekend’s chaos, Chicagoans can find solace in the unity and gratitude displayed by the Chicago Fire Department, along with the Pelt and Tchoryk families, and other fire departments, law enforcement agencies, and members of the community who offer love and support amidst a trying time (Chicago Fire Media via Twitter). Additionally, Chicagoans can also prepare for severe weather by reading 10 things they should know about tornadoes, as highlighted by the Chicago Things to Do Twitter account via RedEyeChicago (Twitter).
Overall, Chicago continues to experience a mix of positive and negative news, with residents and tourists alike needing to stay vigilant in terms of crime and weather concerns.
