The 25th Chicago Polar Plunge, despite chilly temperatures, raised funds for Special Olympics Chicago, with participants jumping into the icy waters of Lake Michigan.

The 97th Academy Awards feature Chicago connections with films like "Better Man" that were showcased at the Chicago International Film Festival and homegrown talent nominated in various categories.

Acero Schools community in Gage Park faces an immigration arrest and potential school closures, creating fear and prompting protests for safety and stability.

Chicago began removing tent encampments from Gompers Park, prompting protests and concerns over the treatment of residents and the notification process.

Springfield, Illinois celebrates Black History Month with tours, films, and events reflecting on Black Americans' contributions, including explorations of work, home, and military service.

Demonstrators protested at Lurie Children's Hospital in Chicago against its halt of gender-affirming surgeries for minors, due to a temporarily blocked Trump order. They emphasized the need for such healthcare and worries about setting a precedent.

An Illinois Lottery player won a $600,000 jackpot in the Lucky Day Lotto on Valentine's Day by matching five numbers online, with over $7.9 million won by players this year.

State attorneys general, led by Kwame Raoul, filed an amicus brief opposing the Trump administration's ban on transgender military service, arguing it is unconstitutional and harmful to national security.

A winning Illinois Lottery ticket worth $10.4 million was purchased at a Des Plaines Mobil station, with the winner and gas station co-owner yet to identify the lucky individual.

Lincoln's New Salem State Historic Site offers fireside chats on Lincoln's life every Wednesday and Saturday from Feb. 12 to 26, welcoming history enthusiasts.

The Chicago Teachers Union rejected a fact-finding report in negotiations with Chicago Public Schools, citing demands for better pay, smaller classes, and hiring more school librarians.

Trump's Department of Education is investigating antisemitism claims at five universities, focusing on Title VI violations following pro-Palestinian protests.

The Chicago Police Department celebrated the addition of 241 new officers at a ceremony that stressed reforms and compassion in policing, amid mixed crime statistics and staffing challenges.