An Illinois Lottery player won $1 million in the Lucky Day Lotto after matching five numbers in the Jan. 4 evening draw. The winning play was purchased online.

A Chicago nonprofit bought a 15-seat van for a Tulkarem orphanage, funding it through a Humanity 5K to ease school runs and medical trips for dozens of children.

Protests erupted in Chicago against U.S. military action in Venezuela and the capture of Nicolás Maduro, with demonstrators demanding respect for Venezuelan sovereignty and opposing potential war.

Latin School of Chicago opened an internal probe after middle-school students were reported practicing "Erika," a WWII-era marching tune tied to Nazi Germany. Families and alumni say the episode revives larger concerns about school culture.

Elmhurst mourns the sudden passing of Roger Paulhus, a dedicated Salvation Army bell ringer, remembered for his kindness and significant fundraising efforts.

A 70-year-old Chicago grandmother who’s lived in the U.S. for more than 40 years is slated for deportation; her family says missed medications and dialysis needs make the O’Hare-to-Philippines flight dangerous.

Chicago residents can recycle their Christmas trees for mulch at designated locations from January 3 to January 17 as part of an annual city initiative.

A Cubs employee says she was routinely misgendered and harassed, and filed a federal lawsuit alleging discrimination and retaliation.

Illinois State Fair moves to digital ticketing for 2026, focusing on convenience and security, with recommendations for using smart devices for entry. Lost Mega and Jumbo Passes won't be replaced.

Brookfield Zoo in Chicago is offering free admission on select Mondays and Tuesdays in January and February, excluding certain holidays, to allow visitors to explore various animal exhibits.

Volunteers from St. Sabina packed and delivered 1,600 hot meals, toys and gift cards across Chicago’s South Side on Christmas Day.

The article describes the Midnight Mass at Holy Name Cathedral in Chicago and Pope Leo XIV's first Christmas Eve Mass at the Vatican, emphasizing themes of compassion and inclusivity.

Students in Chicago volunteered on Christmas to distribute toys, coats, and food to underserved children with the nonprofit I am a Gentleman, Inc. and NALC.