Fiesta Del Sol organizers in Chicago's Pilsen neighborhood are preparing for potential ICE raids by training staff and volunteers on immigration rights.

Chicago may implement a new boating ordinance mandating life jackets, following a drowning, with potential fines for non-compliance, though it faces concerns about vagueness and enforceability.

Cook County won 78 awards from NACo for their innovative programs in health equity, digital inclusion, housing, and more, reflecting their commitment to accessible and equitable services.

A Chicago family gifted Pope Leo XIV, who has Chicago roots, with a "Da Pope" t-shirt in Rome, receiving attention online and reflecting the pontiff's connection to the city.

Chicago Public Schools face a $734 million deficit, leading to 1,500 layoffs including teachers, amidst efforts to balance the budget; the district pushes for structural financial changes over temporary fixes.

Cook County invests $25M in community programs to address gun violence, seeing a significant drop in shootings and homicides. Funds support services for at-risk individuals and survivors.

Illinois Governor JB Pritzker announced the fifth round of the Illinois Works Pre-Apprenticeship Program, with $25 million to support diverse workforce skill development in construction and building trades.

Pop music icon Connie Francis passed away at 87. Known for hits like "Everybody's Somebody's Fool" and the TikTok-revived "Pretty Little Baby," her music legacy spans decades with millions of records sold worldwide.

New online firefighter safety training, "Defenses for Firefighters," is released by IL OSHA and IFSI, aiming to blend safety with effective emergency responses.

A mother is suing Chicago Public Schools, claiming her daughter faced racist bullying and sexual misconduct at school, with staff accused of negligence.

Chicago commemorates the 1995 Heat Wave victims and honors WWII hero Emilio Aguirre with new initiatives and memorials for future resilience and remembrance.

Illinois' Sarah Kerley awarded the Eugene H. Rooney, Jr. Award for HR innovations, significantly reducing hiring timelines and increasing state workforce diversity.

Chicago Public Schools laid off 1,458 staff due to enrollment changes and program needs; the cuts aren't directly related to the $734 million deficit.