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CLEVELAND — While food prices continue to rise relentlessly, leaving households searching for ways to stretch their budgets, major grocery chains in Cleveland are launching a large-scale battle for customer loyalty. This summer, Giant Eagle, a local retail giant, joined chains like Walmart and Meijer by launching the weekly "Carefree Summer" promotions, promising significant savings — from "buy one, get one free" offers to discounts on fresh produce. But in the face of fierce competition and economic pressure, are these discounts enough to ease the financial burden for Ohio families? According to weekly price tracking data, Aldi remains the leader in affordability, offering a basket of essentials — 2% milk, white bread, chicken, ground beef (80% meat, 20% fat), eggs, and oatmeal — for $16.57. Walmart ranks second at $17.18, while Giant Eagle, although not releasing exact figures this week, draws attention with BOGO deals on meat and discounts on seasonal products. However, rising prices for ground beef at most stores signal a broader inflation trend, prompting shoppers to plan their expenses more carefully. "Food prices are rising faster than the incomes of most families," notes Elizabeth VanMeter, reporter for News 5, who leads the price tracking initiative. "Our goal is to give shoppers tools to make informed decisions." Each week, the team visits six major Cleveland chains — Meijer, Giant Eagle, Aldi, Walmart, Heinen’s, and Dave’s Market — comparing prices on essentials. The results not only highlight the most advantageous offers but also show how stores maneuver in a competitive environment where every cent counts. This week, Giant Eagle stands out with its "Carefree Summer" program, which includes discounts on meat, dairy, and pantry staples such as oatmeal for under $2. "We listen to our customers, and they tell us they need real savings," said Bryan Ferrier, Senior Vice President of merchandising at Giant Eagle, in an interview with The New York Times. Insider sources indicate that the company also plans to expand seasonal promotions, especially during back-to-school and winter holidays, following the success of last year's "Price Lock" program that fixed prices on 800 items for three months. However, competition in Cleveland remains intense. Walmart, which recently reduced prices on nearly 7,000 items, and Target, which announced discounts on 1,500 items, put pressure on local chains like Giant Eagle. According to cleveland.com, Giant Eagle’s discount strategy this summer, which covers over 1,000 products and saves customers $7.5 million, is part of a broader trend among retail chains striving to retain customers amid economic uncertainty. For savvy shoppers like Linda Thomas, a resident of Parma Heights, these promotions have become a lifeline. “I compare prices between Aldi and Giant Eagle weekly,” she says. “BOGO on chicken or beef can really cut down my bill.” Meanwhile, local activists point out that chains like Dave’s Market often inflate prices in low-income areas, highlighting inequality in access to affordable food. As Cleveland families adapt to rising prices, initiatives like News 5's price tracker become vital tools. The team encourages shoppers to share their finds via an online form, promising to publish the best deals. "If you find cheaper ground beef or milk, let us know," says VanMeter. "We might even join you in-store to showcase how to save." In a city where economic challenges intertwine with the desire for summer leisure, promotions like Giant Eagle’s "Carefree Summer" offer not only savings but also hope — that even in tough times, the community can gather around the table without breaking the bank. For those willing to compare prices and hunt for discounts, Cleveland this summer is turning into a real battleground for savings.

Imagine this: you forgot to buy eggs for breakfast or medicine for a cold, but instead of going to the store, you open an app, press a few buttons, and within 30 minutes, a drone drops your order right into your yard. This is not a scene from a science fiction movie but a reality that Walmart is bringing to life, expanding its ambitious drone delivery program to five new cities: Atlanta, Charlotte, Houston, Orlando, and Tampa. Starting this summer, the retail giant, in partnership with Wing, a company owned by Alphabet, plans to launch air delivery from 100 stores, becoming the first retailer to scale this technology across five states: Arkansas, Florida, Georgia, North Carolina, and Texas. This expansion, announced on June 5, 2025, is not just another step in Walmart’s technological evolution but a bold signal of how retail is reimagining itself in an era of instant expectations. “We are expanding the boundaries of convenience to make shopping faster and easier than ever,” said Greg Keating, senior vice president of Walmart’s transformation and innovation. With 150,000 successful drone deliveries since 2021—including bananas, ice cream, and pet food—Walmart has already demonstrated that drones are not a futuristic dream but a practical solution for modern consumers. A new era of logistics The program, operated through Wing, an Alphabet subsidiary, allows delivery of goods weighing up to 2.5 pounds (or up to 5 pounds with new drone models) over distances of up to six miles from the store, with an average delivery time of 19 minutes. Drones, flying at speeds of up to 65 miles per hour, use tethers for contactless delivery directly into the customer's yard, making the process not only quick but also safe. According to Adam Woodworth, CEO of Wing, this is “drone delivery at scale,” which has already become part of everyday life in Dallas-Fort Worth and northwest Arkansas. Industry insiders note that Walmart’s success is partly due to its partnership with Wing, which received approval from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) to fly Beyond Visual Line of Sight (BVLOS), allowing drones to cover larger areas. In Dallas, for example, FAA allowed Wing to perform up to 30,000 deliveries per day, and in Charlotte, up to 10,000. Such permissions are rare and indicate regulatory confidence in the safety of the technology. However, sources familiar with the situation say that scaling the program comes with challenges—from weather restrictions to the need to integrate with local communities to avoid conflicts over noise or privacy. Why is this important? For Walmart, which serves 270 million customers weekly in 19 countries, drones are not just a technological trick but a strategic response to competition from Amazon, whose own drone delivery project still faces regulatory and logistical hurdles. While Amazon focuses on testing in select regions, Walmart already delivers groceries, medicines, and essentials such as baby food or COVID tests in real time. “Customers use drones to quickly address urgent needs,” Keating notes. “Forgot the dinner ingredient? We’ll deliver it faster than you can drive to the store.” Residents of Atlanta, Charlotte, Houston, Orlando, and Tampa can sign up on Wing’s website to receive notices about the service launch in their region, while in Dallas-Fort Worth, customers can already check availability at wing.com/dfw. Interestingly, Tampa previously experienced Walmart drone deliveries in 2023, but the program was temporarily suspended to improve operations in Dallas. Now, with new technologies such as Autoloader stations for automatic order loading, Walmart is ready to return to Florida with greater strength. Looking to the future While Walmart celebrates its leadership in drone delivery, the industry closely monitors how this technology will reshape the retail landscape. Insiders say Walmart is already exploring integrating drones into its broader logistics network, including deliveries from pharmacies and restaurants, similar to Wing’s collaborations with DoorDash in Charlotte and Dallas. But questions remain: will drones cope with peak loads during busy seasons, and how will consumers perceive the hum of drones over their homes? For cities like Houston or Atlanta, where speed is a competitive advantage, drones could become the new standard. But success will depend on Walmart and Wing’s ability to balance innovation with practicality, ensuring that air delivery is not only fast but also accessible. Currently, the service is free for Walmart+ subscribers, but in the future, a fee of $20 for delivery might be introduced, still competitive compared to traditional services. Call to action If you live in Atlanta, Charlotte, Houston, Orlando, or Tampa, visit wing.com/walmart to learn when drones will start humming over your area. Walmart promises that the sky will become a new highway for your shopping—fresh fruits to medicines—delivered faster than you can brew your coffee. In a world where time is the most valuable resource, Walmart bets that the future of retail lies in the air.

CLEVELAND, Ohio — At a time when grocery prices are draining wallets and summer sunshine invites picnics and family celebrations, major Cleveland retailers Walmart and Meijer are challenging inflation by offering discounts that promise to ease the burden on household budgets. Ahead of Father’s Day and Independence Day, these stores launched large-scale promotions: Meijer is reducing prices on over 70 summer products by up to 60%, and Walmart offers ready-made picnic packs for less than $6 per person. In a city where every penny counts, these initiatives are not just marketing ploys but vital lifelines for families striving to enjoy summer without breaking the bank. But are these discounts enough to counter the looming economic challenges? Discounts as a Response to Inflation Summer in Cleveland is a time for barbecues, cold lemonades, and children’s playful games in the parks. But for many families, rising food costs — which, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, have reached 2.2% in the Northeast Ohio area in the past year alone — overshadow these simple pleasures. To help, Meijer has launched a ten-week sale running through July 19, 2025, lowering prices on its private brands: from hamburger buns at $1.39 to frozen desserts at $1.99. Walmart offers a picnic set including hot dogs, chips, soda, and buns, catering to eight people for $48 — an offer available through the Walmart app for quick ordering. This week’s price tracker, launched by News 5 Cleveland, shows Meijer leading with the lowest total for a basket of six basic items — $15.57 — while Walmart is close behind at $16.99. These items — 2% milk, wheat bread, chicken, ground beef, eggs, and oatmeal — form the core diet of many local families. In comparison, popular neighborhood grocers Giant Eagle and Heinen’s have higher prices, making Meijer and Walmart more attractive for budget-conscious shoppers. “We understand that families are looking for savings, especially in summer when kids are home and picnics become a tradition,” says Don Sanderson, Chief Merchandising and Marketing Officer at Meijer. “These discounts are our way of making summer more affordable.” Walmart, meanwhile, sees these promotions as a chance to foster customer loyalty. “We want to be the store where people eat at home, not in restaurants,” said Walmart CEO Doug McMillon at a recent analyst meeting. Community on the Hunt for Savings For Cleveland residents, where the average household income is around $33,000 — significantly below the national average — such discounts are critically important. Single mother from West Park, Leila Thompson, shares that she compares prices weekly between Meijer and Walmart to feed her three children. “I buy chicken when it’s cheaper than $2 a pound, and stock up on chips when there’s a ‘buy one, get one free’ deal,” she says. “Without these discounts, I wouldn’t manage.” Her story reflects the sentiments of many: on X (formerly Twitter), users like @CleShopperMom23 share finds such as Meijer frozen desserts at $1.99, urging others to “strike while the deal lasts.” News 5 Cleveland’s weekly price tracker, which compares prices across six stores — Meijer, Walmart, Aldi, Giant Eagle, Heinen’s, and Dave’s Market — has become a local guide. “It’s like a treasure map,” jokes retiree from Lakewood, Michael Reeves, who checks prices on eggs and milk weekly. “Meijer won this week, but I keep Walmart in reserve.” The program also encourages shoppers to share their savings via an online form, promising to publish the best deals. Local experts, such as Cleveland State University economist Irina Lurie, note that such promotions reflect a broader trend. “Retailers are feeling pressure from consumers who are becoming more selective due to inflation,” she explains. “Walmart and Meijer aren’t just lowering prices; they’re competing for loyalty during a time when more people are eating at home rather than in restaurants.” Data confirms this: in the first quarter of 2025, restaurant sales in Cleveland fell by 3%, while grocery store sales increased by 5%. Challenges Beyond Discounts Despite the appeal of discounts, not everyone is enthusiastic. Some residents, like Shaker Square activist Janice Cole, point out that many deals are limited to store brands, which sometimes don’t match the quality of national brands. “Meijer offers cheap chips, but I want Lay’s, and they’re not on sale,” she complains. Others, like X user @OhioBargainHunter, note that trips between stores to maximize savings can offset the benefits due to fuel costs. Moreover, discounts do not solve systemic issues. According to the Greater Cleveland Food Bank, 17% of residents in Cuyahoga County face food insecurity, and even with discounts, many families cannot afford adequate nutrition. “Promotions help, but they don’t replace higher wages or affordable health insurance,” says Cole. Amidst national debates about rising tariffs and potential increases in the price of imported foods like coffee or bananas, saving on picnics may be a temporary relief. Looking to the Future As Cleveland prepares for summer celebrations, Walmart and Meijer remain in the spotlight. Meijer, which recently opened new supercenters in Austin, Medina, and Richmond Heights, plans to expand its presence in Ohio using technologies like Shop & Scan to attract shoppers. Walmart, with its army of Walmart+ members, is gearing up for another week of discounts at the end of June, promising additional perks like free express delivery. For families like the Tompsons, these offers are a chance to preserve summer traditions: “My kids love grilled hot dogs,” she says. “If Walmart or Meijer can make it cheaper, I’m grateful.” But beyond picnics, the Cleveland community seeks more — stability, affordability, and a future where food on the table doesn’t depend on promotions. This summer, as the smell of barbecue fills the air, Cleveland reminds America: discounts are good, but real victory is when every family can afford the joy without compromises.

The Justice Center in Parma, an architectural symbol of stability and legality, has actually been operating for a long time on the brink of failure. Built in the 1990s, it was considered a technical achievement for the city at the time; however, now it is an object where the same systems installed during the Clinton administration are still functioning. And now, when these systems are starting to literally leak and smoke, the city must invest in upgrades to avoid losing the heart of its law enforcement infrastructure. In May, the city council approved expenditures of $257,000 for the replacement of one of the 18 HVAC units — a system that, according to officials, “has been operating with numerous interruptions for the last few years, basically hanging on by a thread.” “This block is not just inefficient — it’s dead,” — stated police chief James I. Bler without emotion. — “We knew long ago that this would happen. And we knew it would be costly.” The Cost of Decay: when an air conditioner becomes a symbol of systemic fatigue The system to be replaced services not only offices and corridors. It provides climate control for two courtrooms, the police headquarters, archives, and the detective bureau — infrastructure that maintains order every day in the second-largest district of Kyaogoga. “We had to set up a portable air conditioner, whose hoses pass through the window of my office,” — says Bler with a semi-ironic tone that barely masks deep disappointment. Police commander George Balasco, who also oversees the management of the facility, explains: “There are numerous leaks in the heat exchangers, and electrical issues are a real nightmare. Instead of repairing — we’re actually forced to dismantle the entire setup with a crane. The cost of such a ‘repair’ — is already half the price of a new system.” Financial Responsibility in the Age of Decay Although some expenses (36%) are covered by judicial institutions, the main burden remains on the city budget. And this is just one item on a long list. Last year, Parma spent nearly $860,000 on replacing the original roof, which had lasted over 25 years. Recently, a full parking lot reconstruction was completed, and now it’s the turn of infrastructure that is not immediately visible — but without which justice in the city will come to a halt. Critical Infrastructure — on the Verge of Digital Security Breakdown Another significant upgrade is a contract worth over $220,000 ($44,180 annually for five years) with DataServ Integrations for modernizing computer infrastructure: replacing outdated network switches and firewalls in the police, regional dispatch center, and Fire Station No. 3. “These devices also date back to the nineties,” — comments Balasco. — “They’re not just old ‘boxes’. They are the backbone of our communication security. And when they stop receiving updates from the manufacturer, we become targets.” Cybersecurity is not an abstraction for Parma but a daily reality. In conversations with The New York Times, city officials hinted that over the past few years, there has been an increase in unauthorized access attempts to the city’s internal systems. New Roof — and New Ambitions The infrastructure renovation is gradually expanding: plans include upgrading interior and exterior lighting, as well as completely replacing ceiling tiles that were partially damaged by roof leaks before they were fixed. “We are trying to be as responsible as possible regarding taxpayers’ money,” — says Bler. — “But it’s time to take care of this building. We can no longer ignore its age.” Justice Needs Not Only Judges — But Also a New Roof, Air Conditioner, and Cybersecurity The story of the Parma Justice Center is not just a maintenance chronicle. It reflects a broader national problem: the aging of critical infrastructure, which has been neglected for decades. In a country striving for digital transformation, the buildings that enforce the law often become vulnerable themselves. And when the office air conditioner for the chief police office is the only thing preventing the courtroom from turning into a greenhouse, it becomes clear: the time for upgrades has long since come.

COLUMBUS, Ohio — In a state where property taxes have become a heavy burden for homeowners, a grassroots movement is gaining momentum, challenging a system that forces seniors and veterans to leave their homes. During a short but pivotal meeting, the Ohio Election Commission unanimously approved a proposed constitutional amendment that abolishes property taxes. This move paves the way for the organization “Citizens for Property Tax Reform” to begin collecting signatures to put the question on the November ballot, threatening a multi-billion dollar revenue stream that funds schools, police, and communities across the state. Grassroots Movement: Citizens Take Initiative “Distraught, distraught, distraught,” — this is how Betty Blackmar, an activist from Lakewood and one of the campaign leaders, describes her state the day after the election commission’s decision. Her words reflect not only tension but also determination. “We have to move forward — and quickly,” she adds with a tired smile. For Blackmar and her allies, this is not just a political fight but a matter of justice. “Elderly people who have paid off their homes should not be forced to leave because of taxes,” she insists, citing examples in New Jersey and Texas where veteran and senior citizen benefits are significantly more generous. The organization represented by Blackmar received the green light to collect signatures — at least 415,000, or 10% of the turnout in the last gubernatorial election, with additional requirements in 44 districts. In practice, the campaign aims to gather twice as many signatures to safeguard against possible dismissals. “We’ll start next week,” Blackmar promises. “This is a volunteer movement, with no big money, just people who believe in change.” Her words are confirmed by sources close to the campaign: unlike many initiatives, there are no paid signature gatherers here, only enthusiasts, many of whom are retirees working “out of their own pockets.” A Crumbling System Property taxes in Ohio are not just figures in the budget but a source of pain for many. According to the Ohio Department of Taxation, in 2023 they brought in $18.5 billion — twice the income tax and a billion more than sales tax. But over the past five years, the estimated value of real estate has increased by nearly 40%, and tax collections by 21%, forcing homeowners to pay increasingly more. “This is an unfair system,” Blackmar asserts. “Legislators had decades to fix it, but they only patch the holes.” Critics, however, are sounding the alarm. Abolishing the tax would leave a huge hole in local budgets. Schools, which in cities like Cleveland receive up to 80% of their funding from property taxes, could face mass layoffs. Police, fire services, libraries, and parks would also be at risk. “It’s like pulling the foundation out from under a house,” says Alison Russo, minority leader in the Ohio House of Representatives. “The proposal reflects people’s frustration but does not offer how to replace these funds.” Blackmar acknowledges the problem but insists: abolishing the tax will force lawmakers to look for alternatives, such as income taxes on school districts or redistributing other revenues. “Republicans are afraid of tax hikes, but they can’t hide behind this excuse forever,” she says, hinting at political inertia that has been hampering reforms for years. Lawmakers Under Pressure The decision by the election commission was a cold shower for Ohio’s legislature, where Republicans dominate but avoid radical changes. House Speaker Matt Huffman tasked Representative David Thomas with developing a bill to lower property taxes, but progress is slow. “We want to do it right,” Thomas assures, though sources in Columbus say Republicans are wary of losing support from local governments reliant on these taxes. Governor Mike DeWine expressed concern, calling the abolition of the tax a “moral challenge.” “Who will pay for schools? For police?” he asked at a recent press conference, urging campaign initiators to propose a plan. But Blackmar and her team are not backing down. “We’re not saying there won’t be schools,” she responds. “We’re saying the system must work for people, not against them.” According to insiders, Blackmar’s campaign is already applying pressure on legislators. Some in the Capitol are considering rushing a bill to offer voters an alternative before November, trying to weaken support for the amendment. “They’re afraid the tower they’ve built for decades will collapse,” Blackmar says with a faint smile. “And they’re right.” Power in the Hands of Voters For Ohio, a state where economic hardship and an aging population only exacerbate the tax problem, this campaign is more than political fighting. It is a matter of dignity for those like Blackmarr, who see neighbors losing their homes because of unaffordable bills. “We are returning power to the people,” she declares, resonating with thousands of volunteers ready to knock on doors and persuade voters. Months of intense work lie ahead. Signature gathering, according to organizers, will test not only logistics but also community faith. If the initiative makes it onto the ballot, it will pose a decisive question for Ohioans: Are they ready to dismantle the old system without knowing what will come next? For Blackmar, the answer is simple: “It all depends on voters. They will decide what the future will be.” While volunteers prepare to hit the streets, Ohio stands on the brink of either a major battle to maintain the status quo or change.

A promise of mass savings, brightly lit aisles, carts the size of trucks, and a hot dog for $1.50 that hasn’t changed since 1985 — wholesale warehouses like Costco, Sam’s Club, and BJ’s have long promised more for less. But do they really deliver savings that justify the membership cost?In short — yes, but not without caveats.Warehouse clubs are retail stores operating on a membership-based model, offering goods in bulk at reduced prices. They are focused on wholesale trade but are also accessible to individual consumers.Savings: real but selectiveFor consumers who know how to shop smart, the deals can be attractive. For example, a three-kilogram bag of organic apples at Costco costs $4.99 — the same price as a two-kilogram bag at Giant Eagle. This is undoubtedly a good deal, especially for families or those buying in large quantities.But the situation becomes more complicated further on. Meat prices — the Holy Grail of budget shopping — are not always the best at wholesale warehouses. In May, a pound of chicken breasts at Costco was $2.99, while competitors — Aldi, Meijer, or even Walmart — offered similar products at lower prices. Ground beef, one of the staples of the American table, often exceeds $4.99 per pound at Costco, which is closer to the premium segment than a sale.Information — the new currencyHowever, as Mike King, Costco’s general manager in Mayfield, notes, price is not everything. “Our product is the highest quality on the market. It’s part of our promise to the customer,” he says. And here it’s worth mentioning the “hidden language of price tags,” well known to loyal customers: numbers like .97 indicate discount, and a star means the item is being discontinued. Sometimes, these small signs can be the key to real savings.Membership: a worthwhile investment or a marketing trick?The annual membership fee varies:Costco: $65 (basic), $130 (includes 2% cashback).Sam’s Club: $50 (basic), $110 (Plus, also with cashback).BJ’s: $60 (standard).For some, these costs quickly pay off. But as financial advisors note, savings are possible only with a clear shopping plan. Otherwise, they say, the allure of 48 rolls of toilet paper at $24.99 each might become an unnecessary luxury gathering dust in the garage.“Inflation? Never heard of it”Perhaps no product better symbolizes Costco’s economic philosophy than the hot dog with a drink for $1.50. The price has remained unchanged for over three decades, and, as employees joke in company circles, “Anyone who tries to raise it — will be fired.” It’s not just a sign of loyalty, but also a trust marker for the consumer: stability amid rising prices.Wholesale warehouses are not a one-size-fits-all solution for every budget, but for attentive shoppers who understand when and what to spend on, they can be a source of real savings. And although a $1.50 hot dog won’t save you from inflation, it at least reminds us: sometimes brand loyalty can still be mutual.

CHICAGO — On Tuesday, the Chicago Community Development Commission took a decisive step toward implementing its ambitious plan to refurbish the Central Loop Line, recommending that the city council allocate $67 million from Tax Increment Financing (TIF) funds for a major renovation of the Clark Adams building. This 41-story Art Deco tower located at 105 W. Adams St. may soon transform from a semi-vacant office relic into a vibrant residential complex, becoming a cornerstone of the LaSalle Street Reimagined program. The city council's approval, expected soon, will unlock significant funds to transform the historic building situated at the intersection of tradition and modernity. The $183 million project envisions creating 400 apartments — from studios to two-bedroom units — on floors 11 through 40, with 121 units reserved as affordable housing. This initiative, launched by former Mayor Lori Lightfoot and supported by current Mayor Brandon Johnson, is part of a broader strategy to revitalize LaSalle Street, where outdated office buildings are gradually giving way to a new residential district with shops, restaurants, and green infrastructure. The nearly century-old Clark Adams building has become a symbol of the challenges faced by Chicago’s business district. Like many other structures in the Central Chicago neighborhood, it suffers from high vacancy rates: tenants are migrating to modern skyscrapers in the West Loop or to the Fulton Market area. Preservation advocates, including the organization "Save Chicago," welcome the plans for adaptive reuse of the tower. "Transforming historic buildings into housing, especially affordable housing, is best practice," said the organization, calling on authorities to grant the skyscraper official landmark status. "This project could serve as a model for others." The renovation is managed by Chicago-based Primera Group, a company owned by minority stakeholders. It acquired the building at the end of last year after previous developers' plans fell through. According to insider sources, Primera Group is working closely with city officials to balance heritage preservation with modern needs. The project involves replacing old windows, cleaning three facades, updating the historic terracotta masonry, and creating new amenities such as terraces and green spaces on the 23rd and 24th floors. These changes will not only restore the building’s former grandeur but also make it attractive to new residents. Funding for the project is a complex puzzle: besides $67 million from TIF, developers plan to secure over $23 million through historic tax credits, with the remaining funds coming from loans and private investments. If the city council gives the green light, construction could begin as early as January 2026, with completion scheduled for June 2027. However, sources close to negotiations indicate that success depends on the city and developers overcoming bureaucratic hurdles and maintaining community trust. For Chicago, this project is more than just renovating a single building. It is a test of the city’s ability to adapt to the post-pandemic reality, where traditional office districts are losing their relevance. The LaSalle Reimagined program promises to create over 1,000 new homes and invigorate the Central Loop Line, but its success hinges on projects like Clark Adams. Chicago residents watching the city’s transformation hope this initiative will serve as a beacon of progress rather than another unfulfilled promise. As the Clark Adams tower prepares for a new life, it reminds us: even in the most challenging times, Chicago knows how to dream big.

Dillon Rudy, a 29-year-old resident of Lincoln Park, finds himself in a situation that has become typical for the modern American real estate market: a comfortable mortgage rate at 3.7%, limited housing options, and economic uncertainty are holding him back from moving. And he is not alone. Thousands of homeowners in the city and suburbs are in a state of "paralyzed market." "I'm a cliché: married to the rate," — admits Rudy. His three-room apartment has become cramped for his family, but stepping out of his comfort zone means taking on a new mortgage at a significantly higher rate. "Money is so cheap, it's hard to let go of it." Despite caution, the market is beginning to stir. The first quarter of 2025 brought a slight increase in sales volumes — up 5% within the city and 1.2% across Illinois. Although these figures are modest, they signal the emergence of a new impulse. According to Illinois Realtors, the average sale price of housing in the city in March increased to $380,000 from $360,000 in February. At the mega-region level, the average price was $360,000, reflecting the national trend towards rising prices driven by a supply shortage. In March, rates for 30-year fixed mortgages reached 6.65%, which still dampens demand. "Serious buyers enter the market when an object is correctly appraised and well presented. The market hasn't stopped; it is transforming," — believes Tommy Choi, president of Illinois Realtors. However, owners like Rudy are weighing: sell now and lock in profit, or keep the asset, hoping for further rate reductions. Dan Spitz, head of Captivate Real Estate Group, notes: "Even with very high sales prices, many can't afford to buy new real estate — they literally have nowhere to go." The hottest areas remain Lincoln Park and West Town, where deals have been recorded with prices exceeding the stated amounts. But overall, the market is characterized by asymmetry: fierce competition from buyers amid sluggish activity from sellers. The market sentiment is also affected by the macroeconomic backdrop. Trade wars under the Trump administration and the threat of recession create uncertainty that impacts consumer confidence. As Jeff Smith from the DePaul Housing Research Institute states, "Uncertainty regarding tariffs and monetary policy is holding back both buyers and sellers." According to NAR data, in March of this year, the median sale price across the U.S. was $403,700 — marking the 21st consecutive month of annual growth. However, national sales for the same period fell by 5.9%, making it the worst March since 2009. In an environment of chronic supply shortages, even moderate rate reductions — below 6% — could give the market a new boost. But for now, inertia prevails. For Rudy and thousands like him, the decision remains difficult. Sell? Rent out? Wait? In a city that changes more slowly than rates do, every decision seems simultaneously correct and risky. "In Chicago, as in America overall, housing remains not just a roof over one's head but a mirror of the nation's sentiments."

After a decade of rapid increase in housing prices, the South Florida condominium market shows signs of cooling, signaling a potential turn in the region's multi-year housing boom. According to new data from the Miami Association of Realtors and the Southeast Florida Multiple Listing Service, the median sale price of condos in March 2025 fell both in Miami-Dade County and Broward County. At the same time, the number of closed transactions remained below last year's level. The numbers speak for themselves: the average sale price of a condominium in Miami-Dade dropped to $437,450 from $445,000 a year ago, while in Broward, the price declined more sharply — to $280,000 from $288,750. This represents a decrease of 1.7% and 3%, respectively. Market analysts attribute the price decline to a number of structural issues. The most concerning is the sharp rise in ownership costs: owners face record-high insurance premiums, increased monthly fees to homeowner associations, as well as expensive assessments for necessary repairs — a problem that became particularly acute after the Surfside building collapse in 2021. "Statistics would look much healthier if they included new construction," said the Miami Association of Realtors. "The main problem is the lack of financing and the shortage of listings in key segments." While the condo market faces challenges, the single-family home segment is holding up better. In Miami-Dade, the average home price increased by 3.1%, reaching $670,000. In Broward, the increase was even higher — 4.6%, to $635,000. At the same time, sales volumes in March showed a slight decline: 961 homes were sold in Miami-Dade (compared to 1,041 a year ago), and 1,062 in Broward (versus 1,084). It is also worth noting the housing inventory — a key indicator of market balance. In Miami-Dade, the supply of homes stands at six months, signaling movement toward a more balanced market. Meanwhile, condo inventory has surged to 13.2 months, formally indicating a buyer’s market. A similar situation exists in Broward: 5.4 months for homes and 12 months for condos. Nevertheless, despite market softening, some areas remain "hot spots." According to the association, the best market for single-family home sales in March in Miami-Dade was Cutler Bay, while Kendall leads among condos. In Broward, Sunrise and Weston are in high demand. Experts emphasize: although the current cooling may be inevitable after years of rapid growth, fundamental demand drivers — influx of migrants, limited new construction, and South Florida's status as a global resort region — remain in place. However, buyers are now experiencing more opportunities to negotiate for the first time in a long while. If these trends persist, 2025 could enter history as the year when South Florida began to rethink its housing dynamics.