2024 Taste of Chicago returns to Grant Park in September – NBC Chicago

Learning Resources CEO Rick Woldenberg is suing the Trump administration over its tariffs, which he believes will severely harm his toy company and the U.S. economy. The lawsuit, filed in Washington, D.C., claims that the tariffs are unconstitutional and could increase the company's import duties from $2.3 million to $100 million, while also predicting a 25% drop in sales. Woldenberg is struggling to shift manufacturing from China, where 60% of his products are made, as...

Miami Beach Mayor Steven Meiner reported a significant reduction in spring break crime for the second consecutive year, attributing this success to the "Reality Check" campaign, which enforced strict rules and highlighted the consequences of unruly behavior. After years of chaos, including violence and lawlessness, the campaign utilized a viral public service announcement to communicate the city's regulations, resulting in no major incidents during the recent spring break. Local businesses and residents expressed appreciation for...

Maine has emerged as a significant drug distribution hub in the Northeast, as noted by Brewer Police Chief Chris Martin, who highlighted a dramatic increase in the availability of fentanyl, methamphetamine, and cocaine over the past four years. This surge in illegal drugs has led to a corresponding rise in crime, with around 90% of offenses linked to drug-related activities, driven by the financial demands of addiction. State lawmakers remain divided on approaches to tackle...

US Bans Artificial Food Dyes US Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. announced the ban of eight commonly used artificial food dyes, with two petroleum-based synthetic dyes to be phased out soon and the remainder by the end of 2026. These dyes, prevalent in various foods such as cereals, candy, snacks, and beverages, have been linked to neurological issues in some children. The BBC's reporters in the US and Canada also compare Froot Loops cereal...

A federal judge, Beryl Howell, indicated a possible permanent ruling against the Trump administration's executive order targeting the law firm Perkins Coie, which aimed to strip security clearances and limit federal dealings due to the firm's past representation of Hillary Clinton. During a tense hearing, Howell compared the administration's actions to historical repression, questioning the constitutionality of the order and expressing frustration at the government's defenses. Perkins Coie's attorney argued the order was retaliatory and...

The Department of Health and Human Services and the FDA announced plans to phase out eight artificial food dyes from the U.S. food supply by the end of 2026, with HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. urging food companies to cooperate. FDA Commissioner Dr. Marty Makary emphasized the removal of petroleum-based dyes and the introduction of natural alternatives, while some industry groups expressed concerns over the proposed timeline and complexity of reformulation. The Consumer Brands...