Afternoon Briefing: Jussie Smollett case isn’t quite over yet

Good afternoon, Chicago.

The long-lasting Jussie Smollett case is not quite over yet.

The former “Empire” actor who was convicted of falsely reporting a hate crime to Chicago police in January 2019 is petitioning the Illinois Supreme Court to hear his case after a lower appellate court in December upheld his sentence and conviction.

Here’s what else is happening today. And remember, for the latest breaking news in Chicago, visit chicagotribune.com/latest-headlines and sign up to get our alerts on all your devices.

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Helen Smith, right, pushes the wheelchair of Loretta Goddard as they visit an art show at The Oaks of Bartlett on Jan. 26, 2024.

Retirement home residents face losing some or all entrance fees as Bartlett facility struggles to pay debts

The Oaks, with more than 250 residents, continues to operate normally, but is shifting to a new business model. It’s offering lower entrance fees, in the $100,000 to $150,000 range — but now they’re nonrefundable. Read more here.

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CosMC’s

The first CosMc's drive-thru is open on Dec. 8, 2023, in Bolingbrook. CosMc's is the new takeout-only mini-chain by McDonald's.

Stacey Wescott/Chicago Tribune

The first CosMc’s drive-thru on Dec. 8, 2023, in Bolingbrook.

After a bumpy end to a banner year, McDonald’s says sales growth will moderate in 2024

The Chicago burger giant said Monday it expects its same-store sales — or sales at locations open at least a year — to rise 3% to 4% this year, which is in line with historical averages. That’s down from double-digit gains in 2021 and 2022 and 9% growth last year. Read more here.

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USC quarterback Caleb Williams throws a pass against Arizona State on Sept. 23, 2023, in Tempe, Ariz.(Christian Petersen/Getty Images)
Christian Petersen/Getty Images

USC quarterback Caleb Williams throws a pass against Arizona State on Sept. 23, 2023, in Tempe, Arizona.

Column: Does Caleb Williams have concerns about the Chicago Bears that would alter his future football plans?

The offseason roller coaster is about to get wild in Chicago. Or maybe we should say wilder. And as it relates to the Bears’ quarterback conundrum, prepare for some of the most intense G-forces, startling stomach drops and head-pounding helixes you’ve ever experienced. Read more here.

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Fat Tuesday at Ina Mae Tavern. (Ina Mae Tavern)
Ina Mae Tavern

Fat Tuesday at Ina Mae Tavern.

35 Fat Tuesday and Mardi Gras specials at Chicago restaurants and bars

Whether called Fat Tuesday, Mardi Gras or Shrove Tuesday, the day before Ash Wednesday is celebrated around the world as a last chance to enjoy decadent food and party before the Lenten fast begins. Read more here.

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FILE - King Charles III welcomes Rishi Sunak during an audience at Buckingham Palace, London, where he invited the newly elected leader of the Conservative Party to become Prime Minister and form a new government, Oct. 25, 2022. Britain's King Charles III has been diagnosed with cancer and has begun treatment, Buckingham Palace said Monday Feb. 5, 2024. Less than 18 months into his reign, the 75-year-old monarch will suspend public engagements but will continue with state business, and won't be handing over his constitutional roles as head of state. (Aaron Chown/Pool photo via AP, file)
(Aaron Chown/Pool photo via AP)

King Charles III welcomes Rishi Sunak during an audience at Buckingham Palace, London, where he invited the newly elected leader of the Conservative Party to become prime minister and form a new government, Oct. 25, 2022.

Prince Harry arrives in London after his father, King Charles III, is diagnosed with cancer

King Charles III’s cancer was caught early and the monarch will “crack on” with his constitutional duties, British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak said Tuesday, as Prince Harry flew in from California for a rare visit with his father. Read more here.

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