❌ Squash Chicago’s newest invasive species

View Property Tax Bills Online

While paper bills are slated to be mailed around Nov. 1, Cook County taxpayers can get a head start on paying second-installment property taxes at the treasurer’s website. [Cook County Treasurer’s Office]

Thompson Center Partial Demolition Approved

Google has acquired permits to demolish the exterior and atrium of the former state government building to transform it into the company’s Chicago headquarters. [Sun-Times]

• The demolition likely means the loss of the building’s iconic salmon, blue, and white color scheme, which polarized Chicagoans. [City Cast Chicago 🎧]

What’s in the Forecast for Retiring Meteorologist?

Tom Skilling said he’ll be splitting his time between Hawaii, Alaska, and Chicago when he retires in February. In fact, the 71-year-old is already getting practice: He jetted off to Hawaii for a vacation after his announcement last week. [Block Club]

South Side Pie Challenge

Amateur bakers: Enter fruit, nut, cream, and sweet potato or pumpkin pies in the competition by Oct. 30. Pastry chefs and professional lovers will judge the pies Nov. 5. [Hyde Park Herald]

South Side Cemeteries Discussion 🪦 Thursday | 6:30 p.m.

Go to the Mount Greenwood library branch to learn about the neighborhood’s surrounding cemeteries. [Free]

West Town Halloween Trampoline 🦘 Thursday | 7:30 p.m.

Jump the night away at Altitude Trampoline Park’s festive adult-themed night. Admission includes a post-jump beer! [$21]

Literary Book Swap in Logan Square 📚 Friday | 4–6 p.m.

Head to Bang Bang Pie to swap books and create a poetry collage out of “Goosebumps” novels. [Free]

Roseland Forest Garden 🌳 Saturday | Noon to 4 p.m.

Learn about the Far South Side’s community forest garden and how you can create your own. Plus, learn how to forage in the area. [Free]

Lincoln Park Horror Film Fest 🎥 Saturday, Sunday | Varies

Catch 99 short indie horror films and features at Facets. [$10+]

Chicagoans, Tap Into Your Inner Kid This Halloween

Who says Halloween is just for kids? Jenny LeFlore, a Bronzeville influencer known as Mama Fresh, shares how adults and kids alike can celebrate All Hallows' Eve in Chicago.