Local News
Thirty Years of Runaway Property Taxes Demand Action
Since I came into this office in 1998 there’s been one constant, the inexorable rise of property tax bills. To better understand why, my office conducted a 30-year analysis of property tax data. The findings make clear the current system is broken.
New Ventra-Divvy Pilot Promotion
The Chicago Transit Authority (CTA), Pace Suburban Bus, and the Chicago Department of Transportation (CDOT) are making it even easier to get around Chicago by adding a new bonus to riders who purchase a 30-day CTA/Pace pass. Today, the Chicago Transit Board approved the Intergovernmental Agreement between CTA and the City of Chicago. The promotional product is expected to launch later in April.
NATIONAL CHERRY BLOSSOM FESTIVAL PARADE® RETURNS APRIL 11 TO WELCOME SPRING
The National Cherry Blossom Festival’s Parade® presented by Events DC, returns to Constitution Ave. on Saturday, April 11, 2026, from 11 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. with a lineup of vibrant floats, giant helium balloons and lively performances.
Illinois Department of Revenue Reminds Taxpayers of Postal Service Changes That May Affect Tax Filing Deadlines
The Illinois Department of Revenue (IDOR) is reminding taxpayers about changes announced by the United States Postal Service (USPS) regarding postmarks that could affect tax filing deadlines in 2026.
Giannoulias Hosting First-Ever Free Business Services Resource Fair to Support Illinois Small Businesses and Entrepreneurs
Illinois Secretary of State Alexi Giannoulias is inviting entrepreneurs, small business owners and aspiring founders to attend the office’s first-ever free Business Services Resource Fair, an event designed to help Illinoisans turn business ideas into real opportunities.
Michael Reese Health Trust Announces First $1 Million in Grants from Prairie State Access Fund
The Michael Reese Health Trust announced the first round of grants from the Prairie State Access Fund, awarding $1 million in flexible funding to four organizations across Illinois’ reproductive and sexual healthcare ecosystem: Chicago Abortion Fund, Planned Parenthood of Illinois, Repro TLC, and the Red Tent Fund.
DineAmic Hospitality Unveils Mosaic, a Versatile New Private Event Venue in River North
DineAmic Hospitality introduces Mosaic, a recently unveiled private event venue in River North designed to host elevated gatherings of all kinds just steps from the Chicago River. Blending modern design with timeless character, Mosaic offers a flexible, design-forward space paired with a curated menu featuring signature dishes from DineAmic Hospitality’s most celebrated restaurants.
Price vs. Protection: Who Wins?
When I meet people at seminars or after speaking engagements, many tell me they never realized how exposed their assets truly are. It is an eye-opening moment. Most people believe they are protected—until they discover how easily everything they own can be put at risk.
Making Strides Against Breast Cancer of Chicago Names Soche Picard as Executive Event Chair
For more than three decades, the American Cancer Society Making Strides Against Breast Cancer has united communities across the nation in an effort to end breast cancer as we know it, for everyone. This year marks a significant milestone for the Chicago walk, as Soche Picard, CEO of Arc Worldwide, will serve as the first-ever Executive Event Chair, signaling a new chapter of community engagement in support of the American Cancer Society’s mission. As a breast cancer survivor and business leader, Picard brings both personal passion and strategic stewardship to the role.
Ryan Opera Center showcases Ensemble members at Rising Stars in Concert
The Patrick G. and Shirley W. Ryan Opera Center at Lyric Opera of Chicago proudly presents Rising Stars in Concert on Saturday, April 25, 2026 at 7:30 p.m., at the Lyric Opera House. This annual showcase of the acclaimed Ryan Opera Center’s 2025/26 Ensemble is a vibrant and theatrically engaging progra m celebrating the next generation of operatic talent. The concert is free and open to all. Tickets can be reserved at lyricopera.org/risingstars.
Molina Healthcare of Illinois and Foodsmart Celebrate National Nutrition Month with Joint Effort to Improve Nutrition Among New Mothers
Molina Healthcare of Illinois is continuing its partnership with Foodsmart, a national tele nutrition and food care provider, to make nutrition a core part of maternal health care for Molina members. Through this collaboration, eligible, expectant Molina mothers can access Foodsmart’s maternal health program, including support from registered dietitians and medically tailored meals that improve long-term health.
April is Child Abuse Prevention Month
Join the Illinois Department of Children and Family Services (DCFS), Prevent Child Abuse Illinois, Hospital Sisters Health System, the Poshard Foundation for Abused Children, elected officials, child welfare stakeholders and more for a month-long observance to share child abuse and neglect prevention awareness messages and promote prevention efforts during Child Abuse Prevention Month in April.
Chicago Board of Education Selects Dr. Macquline King as Superintendent/CEO of Chicago Public Schools
The Chicago Board of Education selected Macquline King, Ed.D., a District educator and leader for more than 30 years, to serve as CEO of Chicago Public Schools (CPS). Dr. King has served as interim superintendent/CEO since June 11, 2025 and will remain interim until her three-year contract takes effect July 1, 2026.
Crawford Advances Bill to Review Barriers Facing Millions of Illinoisans with Criminal Records
State Rep. Mike Crawford, D-Chicago, has successfully advanced legislation out of committee aimed at addressing long-term barriers faced by individuals with arrest or conviction records across Illinois.