Chicago's Week in a Nutshell: Snow, Politics, and Sports

A Wintry Start

Chicago kicked off the week with a wintry surprise, as lake-effect snow blanketed the city and its suburbs. While the snowfall was a taste of winter, the real chill came from political drama.

FAA Shutdown and Bipartisan Efforts

The Federal Aviation Administration's shutdown caused a domino effect at O'Hare, grounding hundreds of flights. But by Wednesday, a bipartisan effort led by Illinois Senator Dick Durbin helped reopen the government, sparking both praise and criticism.

Epstein Files and Transparency Push

The House Oversight Committee dug into Jeffrey Epstein's controversial past, releasing emails that hinted at possible connections to high-profile figures. The committee also welcomed new member Adelita Grijalva, who quickly pushed for transparency regarding the Epstein files.

Shifts in Immigration Landscape

Chicago's immigration landscape saw shifts, with Border Patrol agents relocating and ICE conducting raids in Northbrook.

Political Heat and Budget Debates

Democratic congressional candidate Kat Abughazaleh and others faced federal conspiracy charges related to protests at an immigration facility. Governor JB Pritzker found himself in a heated debate with Ald. Byron Sigcho Lopez over budget and immigration issues. The City Council's Finance Committee chair, Ald. Pat Dowell, also clashed with Mayor Brandon Johnson over his budget plan, particularly the proposed head tax on businesses.

Sports Highs and Lows

Sports fans had a mixed week. The Chicago Bears continued their winning streak, bringing hope to the city. However, the Blackhawks and Bulls faced setbacks, ending their winning streaks and suffering losses.

Alinea Loses a Michelin Star

In a surprising turn, Alinea, one of Chicago's most renowned restaurants, lost a Michelin star, marking a shift in the city's dining scene.