Pope Leo XIV appoints Bishop Ronald Hicks as the new Archbishop of New York, succeeding Cardinal Timothy Dolan. Hicks is known for his humanitarian work and advocacy for immigration reform.

DePaul University laid off 7.6% of its staff due to a budget shortfall, affecting 114 employees. The school faces financial challenges and has launched a strategic plan to address them.

IDNR hosts self-guided hikes in 17 state parks on New Year's Day 2026, as part of a national initiative and in celebration of America's 250th anniversary.

A judge ordered the Northmere SRO vacated after inspectors found hazardous conditions; tenants and advocates say relocation aid may not be enough.

After the Bondi Beach attack, Chicago menorah lightings went on with tightened security and emergency grants backing added precautions. Rabbis urged resilience as organizers worked with police.

Chicago's Christmas in the Wards event provided gifts to children, with more than 2,000 kids from 700 families receiving over 10,000 toys, electronics, and bikes.

Tenants face eviction in a South Shore building post a federal raid, with concerns over finding new homes and potential homelessness.

Cook County has released a study proposing changes to its property tax incentives program to improve fairness and efficiency, including standardizing criteria and documentation.

Des Plaines hosted its annual Our Lady of Guadalupe celebration with lower attendance amidst cold weather and immigration concerns, but with continued devotion and safety measures in place.

Parents at Haugan Elementary say classrooms are packed and the school sought to move 250 students to a nearby vacant building; CPS denied the request after a district review.

Workers at the Chicago Botanic Garden have intensified a union drive while county officials weigh in and management resists card‑check recognition.

Olney Central College celebrates the opening of its new Health Professions Center, an 8,500-square-foot addition to the main building, funded by the Rebuild Illinois program and community support.

The Shrine of Our Lady of Guadalupe in Des Plaines is set for its annual feast amid ICE-related fears, with safety reassurances from church leaders and alternative mass live streams for those who cannot attend.