The Mega Millions jackpot has reached $965 million with no winners from the last draw. If won on Friday, it would be the eighth largest in the game's history.

UChicago Medicine residents overwhelmingly approved their first union contract, winning pay increases, a $9,000 stipend and rideshare reimbursements after yearlong bargaining.

Girl Scouts in Oak Park cut short a food drive after leaders said they encountered masked ICE agents in the neighborhood, leaving volunteers shaken and donations postponed.

Chappell Elementary parents and neighbors mobilized after ICE detained a student's father, organizing mutual aid and fundraising while educators worry about continuity of special-education supports.

Ye met Rabbi Yoshiyahu Yosef Pinto in New York and apologized, blaming bipolar disorder and saying he felt “profound remorse.” The meeting, shared online by the rabbi, is a public attempt to rebuild trust after months of antisemitic outbursts.

The Illinois State Museum has released 100 oral histories of Route 66 for its centennial celebration, capturing experiences from its heyday to its preservation.

Chicago's 68-foot Christmas tree, a Norway Spruce from Glenview, will begin the holiday season in Millennium Park as the city's 112th Christmas Tree, with plans for a tree-lighting ceremony on November 21.

The Illinois Department of Labor collaborates with the Illinois Fire Service Institute to enhance firefighter safety training, including a course on the line of duty death of Lt. Garrett Ramos.

Illinois AG Kwame Raoul reminds families to check the sex offender registry for safety before Halloween trick-or-treating, as state law restricts offenders’ activities.

Tim Moore has been appointed as Chief of the Bureau of Internal Affairs at the Chicago Police Department, as announced by Superintendent Larry Snelling.

Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson gained internet popularity for his dedication to community safety, supporting businesses, and openly challenging racially insensitive remarks.

Federal shutdown may cause 2 million Illinois residents to lose SNAP benefits, with no federal food aid after November 1, as local efforts try to mitigate impact.

CPS board advocates for remote learning due to immigration raids, as ICE actions stoke fear among students and parents. Options are limited without an emergency declaration from the governor.