😍 The lake is finally warm!

Lowest Homicides For Any July in Decades

Last month, Chicago recorded 37 homicides, the lowest for any July in over half a century. It was also the lowest total for any month since at least 1970. Before 2026, the average for July was 71 homicides over the past decade. [WTTW]

• Last year: Chicago had the lowest homicide total in 60 years. Here’s how we track city crime. [City Cast Chicago 🎧]

Rise in ‘Street-Working Children’

More children in Chicago are walking around crowded street corners selling flowers and other merchandise. Experts say it's not uncommon in countries facing socioeconomic hardship. In July, a woman made headlines for assaulting a young girl selling bouquets in River North. [Tribune 🔒]

County Increases Medical Relief

Over 200,000 Cook County residents are at risk of losing healthcare coverage by 2028. In response, Cook County plans to spend its highest amount on charity care in a decade. On today’s podcast, we break down the details. Plus, Ariana Grande highlights local LGBTQ+ organizations and theater productions to see. [City Cast Chicago 🎧]

Anti-Violence Volunteer Arrested on Gun Charges

Nakia Smith said he walked into a Far South Side police station to surrender a gun, but ended up arrested on gun charges. Police say the 51-year-old anti-violence volunteer was breaking the law by carrying a gun as a convicted felon. His trial is set for Monday. [Sun-Times]

Listen to the Chicago Municipal Code

Whether you need it for ASMR, a sleeping aid, or legal cramming, City Cast Contributor Al Scorch has you covered. On his podcast Municipal, Scorch reads the city’s 3,205-page code, in the classic Chicago accent, of course. [WBEZ]

• Listen: Scorch shares tick-checking tips. [City Cast Chicago 🎧]

2 Diner Closures – and an Ann Sather Takeover

Stella’s Diner in Lakeview has closed after 60-plus years, about a month after a failed health inspection. Ann Sather, another neighborhood staple, will take over the space. (Ann Sather recently closed its longtime Lakeview location and opened another in Wicker Park.) Meanwhile, Wishbone is closing in West Loop after 36 years. [Block Club]

Via Neighborhood Shoutouts, City Cast Chicago Neighbors share their favorite local people, places, and things!

Today, Grace H. is shouting out Komoda: “an amazing and unique gift shop in Ukrainian Village!”

Become a neighbor today, share your local picks, and for a limited time only: receive some special City Cast Chicago merch!