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How Farm Aid grew from one concert into a movement

How Farm Aid grew from one concert into a movement

Farm Aid is a benefit concert series that has played a significant role in supporting American farmers since its inception. Founded in 1985 by musi...
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Northwestern women’s basketball player review: Xamiya Walton

Northwestern women’s basketball player review: Xamiya Walton

The Chicago native emerged as Northwestern's best perimeter threat in her sophomore campaign.
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Pope Leo condemns capital punishment amid US execution push

Pope Leo condemns capital punishment amid US execution push

VATICAN CITY, April 24 (Reuters) - Pope Leo condemned capital punishment for a second day running on Friday, calling for its abolition in the United States just as President Donald Trump's administration moved to broaden methods of execution for federal inmates.
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Illinois Lawmakers Tackle Scammer Exploitation Following Tornado Damage

Illinois Lawmakers Tackle Scammer Exploitation Following Tornado Damage

In the wake of seven tornadoes that struck McLean County, Illinois, on April 17, police are warning residents about scammers who exploit natural disasters. These scammers often pressure storm victims into paying for repairs that are not covered by insurance or fail to complete the work after receiving payment. Bloomington Police have not yet received scam reports, but such reports typically emerge weeks after the event. To combat this, Illinois lawmakers are proposing a bill to regulate how and when contractors can approach property owners post-disaster. The bill, sponsored by Democratic state Rep. Sharon Chung, would prevent contractors from engaging with customers for 72 hours after a disaster proclamation and restricts contact between 7 p.m. and 8 a.m. unless initiated by the customer. The bill aims to reduce the prevalence of 'storm chaser' scams, which are known to drive up insurance costs.
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Chicago's Quantum Leap: How Quantum Technologies are Shaping the Future

Chicago's Quantum Leap: How Quantum Technologies are Shaping the Future

Chicago's Quantum Leap: How Quantum Technologies are Shaping the Future
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Illinois Enacts Clean Slate Act to Aid Employment for Residents with Criminal Records

Illinois Enacts Clean Slate Act to Aid Employment for Residents with Criminal Records

Illinois has enacted the Clean Slate Act, a law aimed at modernizing the state's record-sealing process to remove employment barriers for residents with criminal records. The law mandates the automation of sealing eligible low-level, nonviolent criminal records by 2029, replacing the outdated petition-based system. This change is expected to benefit 2.2 million Illinois residents, allowing them to access employment opportunities without the stigma of past records. The law encourages fair chance hiring, which is supported by studies showing that individuals with criminal records often perform as well as or better than those without.
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Men’s basketball player reviews: Jake West

Men’s basketball player reviews: Jake West

Despite not posting big numbers, West impressed as a floor general that can let it fly.
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LaVerne Iacomini Passes Away at 97, Leaving Behind a Legacy of Family and Community

LaVerne Iacomini Passes Away at 97, Leaving Behind a Legacy of Family and Community

LaVerne B. Iacomini, a long-time resident of Lisle, Illinois, passed away peacefully at the age of 97 on April 18, 2026. Born on June 7, 1928, in Oak Park, Illinois, she was the daughter of Gino and Pia Bianchi. LaVerne was married to Tony Iacomini for 58 years until his passing. She is survived by her daughter Amy Szymaszek, son-in-law Kurt Kofron, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. LaVerne was known for her social personality and her ability to bring people together. She was a member of St. Margaret Mary Catholic Church and attended Good Shepherd Lutheran Church in Naperville, Illinois. Her funeral services are scheduled for April 27, 2026, at St. Margaret Mary Catholic Church, followed by a private family committal service.
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Mark Littner Remembered for His Passion for the Outdoors and Music

Mark Littner Remembered for His Passion for the Outdoors and Music

Mark Littner Remembered for His Passion for the Outdoors and Music
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Illinois Introduces Tax Credit to Boost Sustainable Film Production

Illinois Introduces Tax Credit to Boost Sustainable Film Production

Illinois Introduces Tax Credit to Boost Sustainable Film Production
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Claire's to Relocate Headquarters to Rosemont, Illinois in 2027

Claire's to Relocate Headquarters to Rosemont, Illinois in 2027

Claire's to Relocate Headquarters to Rosemont, Illinois in 2027
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Easterseals Telethon Raises $912K for Tri-State Families, Supports Disability Services

Easterseals Telethon Raises $912K for Tri-State Families, Supports Disability Services

The 49th annual Easterseals Telethon successfully raised $912,065 to support the Easterseals Rehabilitation Center, which provides services to individuals with disabilities in Indiana, Kentucky, and Illinois. The funds will be used to support inclusive early education and essential therapy services for children and adults with disabilities. The telethon featured stories from local ambassadors and was supported by community leaders, including Evansville Mayor Stephanie Terry, who declared April 17 as 'Easterseals Day.' The event highlighted the community's commitment to supporting individuals with disabilities and ensuring access to necessary services.