🛑 The air is not alright

Beware: Chicago’s Air Quality is BAD Right Now

Due to Canadian wildfire smoke, Chicago’s air quality was among the worst in the world this week. The hazardous conditions will likely continue today, and sensitive groups could experience serious health effects. [CBS]

Stay safe:

• Wear an N95 mask if you can. [U.S. News & World Report]
• Limit outdoor activity. [Fox 32]
• Continue checking Chicago’s air quality. [City Cast Chicago 💻]

Have fun indoors:

• Shoot pool!
• Go bowling!
• Relax in a cafe! [City Cast Chicago 💻]

“ICE on Notice.” Also, Are the Beard Awards Leaving Chicago?!

As ICE sightings and arrests are up in Chicago, City Council is questioning the effectiveness of Mayor Brandon Johnson’s “ICE on Notice” executive order. Johnson signed it in January following months of “Operation Midway Blitz.” What’s changed since then? Also discussed: 1,000 teens downtown, and are the James Beard Awards moving?! [City Cast Chicago 🎧]

Alders Plan to Fight Mayor’s Proposed Renter Protections

Mayor Brandon Johnson’s proposed Tenant Bill of Rights would require landlords to provide “just cause” for evictions and lease nonrenewals and charge them for displacing tenants. However, the same group of alders who steamrolled Johnson’s budget plan are mobilizing against those potential new rules. [Block Club]

• Wait: What’s a Tenant Bill of Rights? [City Cast Chicago 🎧]

Furloughs, Freezes Balance CPS Budget Proposal

Five furlough days and a midyear spending freeze would chip away at Chicago Public Schools’ $732 million deficit. The district’s $9.88 billion budget proposal also relies on even more TIF surplus funds from the city. Officials say the 760 teachers and 800 support staff laid off this week will likely be rehired to fill other vacancies. [Chalkbeat]

It’s hazy as heck outside — a perfect morning to stay in and take your quiz! There was a lot going on this week in Chicago. Were you paying attention?

Finally, time for a Neighborhood Shoutout! Every week, we share recs from City Cast Chicago Neighbors, and let me tell you, they know their stuff. Share your knowledge — become a member today.

Today, Quentin M. is shouting out Pilsen Food Pantry:

“Frustratingly, Chicago and Illinois lack a city or statewide bottle bill redemption program. Thankfully, Pilsen Food Pantry's recycling program makes it easy for me to recycle metal cans, which simultaneously supports their general operations and reduces landfill waste.”