A group in Cortland, Illinois, claimed a $349 million Mega Millions jackpot, choosing to remain anonymous under the name "Blessed." The winning ticket was purchased at Casey's General Store.

The McHenry County Sheriff’s Office received a "Chair of Honor" from Rolling Thunder Illinois Chapter 2 to commemorate over 80,000 U.S. POW/MIAs. The chair symbolizes the wait for their return and serves as a reminder of their sacrifice.

A tourist visiting Chicago won $3 million from a lottery ticket purchased at Komal Wine and Liquors while sightseeing, leading to a timely financial boost for house hunting.

Cardinal Cupich led a memorial Mass for Pope Francis at Holy Name Cathedral in Chicago, honoring his legacy and role in making the church more inclusive.

Cook County designates April as "Second Chance Month" to support the reintegration of formerly incarcerated individuals, focusing on housing and employment initiatives to help them transition back into society.

Cardinal Blase Cupich of Chicago mourns Pope Francis's death, reflects on his papacy, and prepares for the conclave to elect a new pope, while the local community honors Francis's progressive legacy.

St. Thomas More Catholic Church in Ashburn is closing after Easter, with the building to become an outreach ministry hub, while nearby Greenstone Methodist Church experiences a revival.

Chicago's OEMC celebrated Debra White's 40 years as a 911 dispatcher in a ceremony, where her dedication and work were highly praised as she prepares for retirement.

IL OSHA collaborates with state fire organizations to offer a sample SOG for interior firefighting safety, aiming to address the "NIOSH 5" and enhance fireground protocols.

The Chicago Triathlon opens registration for its 2025 event, offering various races including the Triple Challenge, with ABC7 Chicago reporting on the triathlon's international appeal and community impact.

Illinois teens will benefit from a $24 million Juul settlement, used for vaping prevention and cessation programs, including Truth Initiative's EX Program, as announced by Attorney General Kwame Raoul.

Chicago Police are addressing potential "teen takeovers" with reinforced strategies and are warning parents, as previous events have led to violence. There is a proposal for an earlier citywide curfew amid debates on youth investment.

Visas for seven international students at the University of Chicago were revoked as part of the Trump administration's wider immigration crackdown, with the reasons for the cancellations not fully disclosed.