Lurie Children's finds half of Chicago parents faced energy insecurity, with many cutting essentials or using space heaters during the cold months.

Illinois American Water filed to fund $577 million in upgrades; the company says typical water bills could rise roughly $14 per month while wastewater charges could jump about $28. Consumer groups say the request raises affordability concerns as the ICC begins its review.

Two Ashton coworkers thought a Lucky Day Lotto ticket had won $350 — the Illinois Lottery app showed $350,000. They plan to split the prize and invest their shares.

Advocate Health is raising its systemwide starting wage to $18.85 and committing $776M to pay and benefits, effective on Jan. 30 paychecks. The package also expands tuition, retirement and mental‑health support.

Chicago businesses closed to join the National Shutdown Day, protesting aggressive immigration enforcement, with some donating proceeds to support affected communities.

District 123 in Oak Lawn closed all schools after a serious threat targeting Kolmar School; police are investigating. No additional details disclosed.

A Lucky Day Lotto ticket sold in Justice matched all five numbers on Wednesday evening, producing a $550,000 jackpot and a $5,500 seller bonus for the station.

Chicago tests a tiny fraction of homes for lead while nearby Elgin found dangerous levels in most houses it sampled. Experts say broader testing and clearer data are needed.

A Chicago mother says mold, holes and drafts in her Albany Park unit are triggering her child's severe asthma after months of stalled repairs.

An Iowa FedEx worker unexpectedly gave birth at work after saying she didn’t know she was pregnant. Both mother and baby are reported healthy and resting.

After election officials blocked their ballot bid, Southeast Side organizers say they’ll keep pushing for a binding community benefits deal and stronger cleanup at the PsiQuantum site.

Chicago schools close or switch to remote learning amid severe cold, with wind chills possibly reaching -25 degrees. Some institutions, however, remain open, and the city has set up warming centers and continues to combat the effects of the weather.

Chicago Archdiocese is closing six schools due to financial issues, while reinstating Father Kondziolka after no reasonable cause was found regarding an old abuse allegation.