🍗 The big beef over Harold’s chicken

ICE Arrests on Rise. Also, Is Chicago (Still) Broke?

We’ve learned a lot about the city’s financial position recently. What does that mean for the growing field of mayoral candidates? We discuss Chicago’s fiscal health on today’s podcast — plus the alarming rise in ICE arrests. [City Cast Chicago 🎧]

• Meanwhile: Raids continue to upend day labor work. [Borderless]

CTA Crime Drops After Security Surge

Following a series of high-profile attacks — and federal funding threats — CTA has heightened security. In turn, there’s been a 30% decline in crime over the last six months compared to 2025, according to interim president Nora Leerhsen. The sharpest change is on the Red Line, where crime has dropped 47% overall, and violent crime has dropped 76%. [ABC7]

You Could Be Eligible For Cash App Settlement

Illinois will receive over $1 million as part of a 45-state settlement with Cash App’s parent company, Block Inc., which was accused of misleading customers about the app’s security. Block Inc. also faces $55 million in civil penalties and will have to pay customers nationwide somewhere between $75 million and $120 million.

OPC Tickets Sold Out. Again. For Now.

Annnnd they’re gone! The latest batch of Obama Presidential Center tickets went fast, but don’t despair. Check the center’s website Aug. 12 — the museum will continue to update ticket availability on the second Wednesday of every month. [Block Club]

• Dying to go? Bookmark the page.

Who Actually Owns Harold’s Chicken?

The fight over ownership of the iconic chicken brand has landed in court. After the death of CEO Kristen Pierce-Sherrod in January, her children claim she left Harold’s to them in her will. Her widower claims the will is fake — and has enlisted former Mayor Lori Lightfoot to represent him. [Tribune 🔒]

Chief Keef Coming to Northerly Island

Chief Keef hasn’t performed in Chicago since Lollapalooza 2012 — when the rapper was 16. He was essentially blacklisted from performing locally following legal troubles and pressure from city officials. Though he’s hit the stage in Bridgeview in recent years (plus an infamous hologram appearance in Hammond) a show at Northerly Island in September will mark his first official city return. [NBC 5]

• Want tix? They’re available now.

In Chicago, the news never stops. But are you paying attention? Test your knowledge of this week’s headlines.

Finally, time for a Neighborhood Shoutout! These are how City Cast Chicago Neighbors show their love 💕

Today, Alison Y. is shouting out Bombay Eats: “I’m obsessed with Bombay Eats! Admittedly, it looks corporate, but it’s fresh, healthy, and delicious, and if you can even imagine in 2026, affordable. My wrap only cost $7.78 with tax today. You truly can’t beat that!

And on that note, I’d personally like to shout out Alison’s own organization Read and Run Chicago. If you like reading and running, no surprise, it’s for you.