🚫 Will US ban books bans like Illinois did?

New COVID Shots Approved

The FDA approved a new COVID-19 booster to fight the latest omicron subvariants. Vaccinations could begin as early as this week. [AP]

• Protect yourself from other fall viruses. [Hey Chicago 💻]

Unemployment Down in Metro Chicago

With local unemployment rates below 4% for three consecutive months — the first time since February 2020 — is the worst of the regional economic emergency over? [WBEZ]

Chicagoland Creature Championship Winner Is …

Piping plovers have won over Chicagoans again. The birds had some stiff competition in a poll pitting them against the Millennium Park foxes, Chonkosaurus the snapping turtle, and more. [City Cast Chicago 🎧]

• It’s not a surprise: Chicagoans have loved plovers for a few summers now. [City Cast Chicago 🎧]

Author Jonathan Eig Downtown 🗣️ Tuesday | 7 p.m.

Head to Harold Washington Library to hear the author talk about his latest biography about MLK. Pick up his book "Ali," too! [Free]

Shrines of Brass in Austin 🎺 Wednesday | 4–5:30 p.m.

Catch the Old Town School of Folk Music’s brass procession starting at the Columbus Park Fieldhouse and ending at Austin Town Hall. [Free]

‘Bouncy House’ Opening in Bridgeport 🎨 Friday | 6–9 p.m.

Catch Project Onward’s colorful new show. [Free]

Impromptu Fest in Logan Square, Pilsen, West Loop 🎵 All Week | Varies

Through Saturday, celebrate the city’s experimental music scene with 15 performances from solo acts to chamber music. [Donations accepted]

Rogers Park Kickball 🔴 All Fall | Thursdays 7–9 p.m.

Through Nov. 2, join the kickball team at Pottawattomie Park. [$50]

Police Drop the Ball on Recording Response Times

The Chicago Police Department fails to record adequate 911 response data, according to Inspector General Deborah Witzburg. That means police responsiveness can’t even be measured — let alone addressed.