Local News
Ellman law to strengthen Illinois gun storage starting Jan. 1
With preventable tragedies involving unsecured guns increasingly impacting children and teens, State Senator Laura Ellman advanced a critical public-safety measure to strengthen Illinois’ firearm-storage requirements. The new law helps ensure firearms are safely secured and inaccessible to minors, vulnerable residents, and those who pose a public threat.
Governor Pritzker Signs Bill Expanding End-of-Life Options for Terminally Ill Patients
Governor Pritzker signed the Medical Aid in Dying bill (SB 1950), a law that will provide qualified terminally ill patients with the option to seek medication to peacefully end their lives on their own terms in consultation with physicians.
Peters spearheads law to raise Illinois’ juvenile detention age
A new law from State Senator Robert Peters will raise the minimum age at which minors can be detained and limit detention in certain situations where the minor is not charged with a violent crime, making it clear the state is prioritizing rehabilitation and addressing the root causes of delinquent behavior.
Be Merry, But Safe: IPC Urges Caution Mixing Alcohol and Prescription Medications
‘Tis the season to be jolly but mixing alcohol and prescription medications is no laughing matter. With holiday parties that involve alcohol consumption and an increasing number of people taking medications that interact with alcohol, Illinois Poison Center (IPC) experts are reminding the public of the potentially dangerous consequences of combining some medications with alcohol.
MAYOR BRANDON JOHNSON, DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION CELEBRATE 2025 GREENCORPS JOB TRAINING GRADUATES
Mayor Brandon Johnson and the Chicago Department of Transportation (CDOT) celebrated the 47 newest graduates of Greencorps Chicago, the City’s green workforce training program which serves individuals overcoming barriers to employment, including returning residents. By building valuable job readiness skills through paid classroom and hands-on field training in ecological restoration, tree care, green infrastructure, landscaping, and environment related occupations, the program empowers Chicagoans to build brighter futures for themselves, their families and their communities.
Chicago Public Schools Announces Historic Milestones in Scholarships and Seal of Biliteracy Achievements
Chicago Public Schools (CPS) celebrates the achievements of the Class of 2025 by highlighting a record number of scholarships and State Seal of Biliteracy awards. The District recognized these accomplishments at Eric Solorio Academy High School in Gage Park, where students secured these honors at unprecedented levels. CPS emphasizes that these achievements not only demonstrate students' dedication and perseverance but also create meaningful advantages for their futures.
Avoid the Fee, Get REAL ID: Giannoulias Leads Push to Spare Illinoisans from TSA’s $45 Penalty
With the Transportation Security Administration’s (TSA) new $45 penalty set to catch travelers off guard starting February 1, Illinois Secretary of State Alexi Giannoulias is taking action to reduce the Time Tax by making it easier than ever for Illinois residents to get their REAL ID.
Deck the Halls, Safely
The holidays are a time for family, joy and festive lights. They are also a time when electrical hazards can increase. As you decorate your home this season, keep these tips in mind to ensure your celebrations stay safe and bright.
Troy Pryor elevates Creative Cypher, appointing Cypher’s Sr. Newsroom Producer, Cindy Beasley, as company’s new President
On the heels of two Emmy nominations, three Telly Awards & major festivals, Creative Cypher — the innovative content collective founded by visionary creative and producer Troy Pryor — is entering a bold new era. The company announced today that Cindy Beasley has been appointed Interim President, signaling a strategic expansion of the Cypher brand as it continues to elevate underrepresented voices in film and television.
SOUTHSIDE BLOOMS OPENS FILLMORE CENTER LOCATION IN NORTH LAWNDALE, EXPANDING YOUTH EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES
The Fillmore Center, a dynamic business hub in North Lawndale, announced Southside Blooms as its newest tenant, expanding youth employment opportunities and economic development on Chicago’s West Side. Founded in Englewood in 2019, the social enterprise florist is growing its mission of sustainability and community empowerment with a second shop that will employ up to 20 local youth from ages 16 - 24, with additional hiring opportunities expected in the months ahead.
Roseland Ceasefire Holds the Organization's Largest Holiday Giveaway
For the 15th year, Roseland Ceasefire Project Inc. held its holiday extravaganza at the Calumet Township Community Center, 12633 S. Ashland Avenue in Calumet Park. Run like a well-oiled machine, the violence intervention organization gave away hundreds of toys, 1,100 turkeys and all of the fixings.
UNICEF USA Announces Presidential Inaugural Poet and Activist Amanda Gorman as Newest Ambassador
UNICEF USA has appointed Presidential Inaugural Poet and activist, Amanda Gorman, as the organization’s newest Ambassador. The announcement comes on the eve of the 20th annual UNICEF Gala where Gorman will perform an original poem centering on how it is possible to create a better world for all children.
Dillard University Pre-Law Program Launches Official Chapter of the National Black Law Students Association
Dillard University, Louisiana’s oldest historically Black college and university (HBCU), proudly announces the establishment of its newly chartered Pre-Law Chapter of the National Black Law Students Association (NBLSA). This milestone marks a significant expansion of Dillard’s commitment to preparing its students for success in the legal profession and advancing the representation of Black lawyers nationwide.
Tigerlily Foundation Launches the "Bliss Collective: Brunch & Sip" Series to Empower, Educate, and Uplift Women Nationwide
The Tigerlily Foundation (Tigerlily) proudly announces the launch of the Bliss Collective: Brunch & Sip, a new national event series designed to empower women, build community, and amplify awareness of health equity and clinical trial participation through culturally relevant lifestyle experiences. This powerful initiative is being launched in partnership with Bristol Myers Squibb.