Kanye Claus / Sayonara, Rahm / Molotov Cocktail / Fatal Fire

Let's look on the bright side of Rahm Emanuel's confirmation as America's ambassador to Japan.

Chicago's embattled former mayor is moving 6,300 miles away.

Rahm Emanuel, Former Chicago Mayor, Confirmed As Japan Ambassador

Could Be Worse. High: 41 Low: 30.

• Kanye West really came through for Chicago kids this Christmas season. The Chicago-native bought nearly all the 4,000 toys given away Sunday in Englewood. Ald. Stephanie Coleman said the rapper is a "modern day Santa Claus" for locals boys and girls. (ABC7)
• Police are on the hunt for a man who assaulted a clerk at 7-Eleven in the Loop and then set the store on fire with a Molotov cocktail, authorities said. The store was totaled and two people, including the clerk, a 41-year-old woman, were treated for smoke inhalation. (CWB)
• An 81-year-old man and a dog were killed in a Northwest Side apartment fire Saturday night that also left two people injured and displaced several tenants. “The scary part is not knowing where you’re going to go ... without a dime in your pocket. We just paid rent. So Christmas, I can’t even think of Christmas. I’m just trying not to break down in front of my kids,” Tamanique Porter said. (WGN)
• Chicago Public Schools will provide meals to students from 70 schools over winter break starting today. Families will receive one breakfast and one lunch for every student who lives in their household. (NBC 5)

Today's Chicago Daily is brought to you in part by Newrez, a leading nationwide mortgage lender. Make a smart move for your future and refinance with Newrez today. Call 844-979-1707 to connect with a Newrez loan officer. Newrez, LLC (NMLS #3013)

For A Good Time, Click:

• Bears pre-game at Reggies (9 a.m.)
• Make Us Laugh Mondays at Zanies Comedy Club (7:30 p.m.)
• Eyehategod, High Priest, Guest, Something is Waiting at Cobra Lounge (6 p.m.)
• Free Monday w/ Laverne, Sewingneedle, Babe Report at Empty Bottle (7:30 p.m.)
• Bears vs. Vikings at Soldier Field (7:15 p.m.)
• '

Just The Links:

• Photographer Barry Butler captures "Santa's spark."
• Lincoln Park Zoo is for the birds.
• All Chicago libraries are now open on Sunday.
• Enjoy the lush, sextet performance from Richard Strauss’ opera Capriccio streaming for free.

More from our sponsors — thanks for supporting local news!

Featured businesses:

• Improovy Painters Chicago — (Visit website)
• Governors State University — (Visit Website)
• Add your business here

Events:

• Spoken Word Burlesque Spectacular - Highlights Childhood Sexual Abuse + All-Male Survivor's Panel (December 21)
• Music with the Rabbi (December 21)
• Brighten The First Day Of Winter With 15 Percent Off FTD’s Sunniest Blooms (December 21)
• Get a medical cannabis card in 24hrs, and for 33% off, for the rest of 2021 (December 23)
• Chicago Scene New Year's Eve Party at The Drake Hotel (December 31)
• First Night Evanston is “Closer Than in Person” with a virtual 25th New Year’s Eve Variety Show (December 31)
• Opening Reception: (un)disclosed with Bryana Bibbs (January 8)
• Add your event

Announcements:

• BHHS Chicago Raises $1,142 for Lakeview Pantry (Details)
• Add your announcement

Loving the Chicago Daily? Here are all the ways you can get more involved:

• Send a friend or neighbor this link so they can subscribe
• Get your local business listed in front of readers
• Send me a news tip or suggestion at mark.konkol@patch.com

— Mark