Chicago experienced a week marked by extreme cold, local sports events, and various community happenings. Block Club Chicago reporters documented the city’s response to these developments across neighborhoods.
Fans of the Chicago Bears gathered at Ramova Theatre and Soldier Field as the team faced the Los Angeles Rams in an NFL Divisional Round game on January 18, 2026. During a tailgate at Soldier Field, Steve Muskievicz offered a hotdog to James Gardiner, an Australian fan visiting for the occasion. The Bears’ playoff run ended with a loss to the Rams, but fans expressed optimism about the future.
Joe Sass, a crossing guard at Jamieson Elementary School, helped students cross safely amid freezing temperatures following a water main break at Bryn Mawr and California on January 22.
City Council members addressed several issues during their meeting on January 21. Aldermen William Hall and Brian Hopkins were seen leaving a closet during the session. Alderman Marty Quinn spoke after the meeting where council members passed a ban on intoxicating hemp products except for THC drinks. A separate vote on youth curfew measures was postponed after discussions between city officials and aldermen.
In Pilsen, Yolihairkutz posed for portraits with her braids at Eighteenth Barber Co., highlighting an event where elaborate braids are seen as symbols of resistance.
Snowfall hit downtown Chicago on January 16 as residents prepared for wind chills expected to reach minus 35 degrees Fahrenheit over the weekend.
A fire damaged part of an encampment in Eugene Field Park, prompting calls from Northwest Side aldermen for more support from City Hall regarding homelessness issues.
Rideshare drivers met with labor organizers in Chicago to advocate for legislation that would enable unionization and collective bargaining rights statewide due to concerns over pay and safety risks.
Union Padel Club opened in West Loop this week, offering five courts and additional amenities to players.
Legler Regional Library launched its first food pantry in partnership with the City of Chicago and Chicago Food Depository. This initiative is part of a new program aimed at improving food access through public libraries.
The Bulls organization partnered with After School Matters to unveil “Home Court of Dreams,” a mural dedicated to Derrick Rose at Cabrini-Green’s new teen center ahead of his jersey retirement celebrations.
Keith Lewis, owner of Bookie’s bookstore and founder of FAIR Fund Chicago, donated proceeds from last year’s book fair to Sutherland Elementary School as part of efforts to help South Side children build home libraries.
HVAC crews worked outside The Fields Studios near Avondale-Logan Square following reports of unusual buzzing noises in the area earlier this month.
Carmine’s restaurant reopened its Gold Coast location after two years of renovations. Diners returned as business resumed operations at 1037 N. Rush St.
Chicago Police responded to a fatal shooting incident in Little Village on January 20 along West 23rd Street.
