The Mega Millions jackpot has risen to $514 million, with no winner in the prior draw. Two Californian tickets won $1 million, and one from Louisiana won $3 million. Ticket prices will increase to $5 in April 2025.

A ceasefire agreement between Israel and Hezbollah took effect, but tensions remain in Gaza without a ceasefire. Chicagoans demand further accountability and peace.

There are five confirmed cases of whooping cough at Lane Tech High School in Chicago, impacting various grades despite vaccinations, indicating a larger national trend of increased pertussis cases.

Chicago lights up for the holidays with a 50-foot tree at 900 North Michigan Shops and a 53-foot Colorado Blue Spruce in Millennium Park, alongside festivities like Christkindlmarket and the Magnificent Mile Lights Festival.

K-9 Riggs of the Illinois State Police Passed away due to a cardiac event at age 10, after a career contributing to significant drug and firearm seizures.

A Chicago man, "Big Money D," won $650,000 in the Illinois Lottery using numbers tied to his late wife, planning to buy a dream home for himself and his children.

Students at the Chicago High School for Agricultural Sciences served Thanksgiving dinner to seniors, continuing an annual tradition of community engagement and culinary education.

Legendary Chicago Bulls forward Bob Love passed away at 81 after battling cancer. Known as "Butterbean," he was a three-time NBA All-Star during his nine seasons with the Bulls and made a lasting impact on and off the court.

Illinois celebrates National Apprenticeship Week with events showcasing its commitment to developing a skilled labor force through apprenticeships, backed by Governor Pritzker and strategic investments.

Nurses at UI Health returned to work after a four-day strike, having reached a tentative agreement that promises improved safety measures, wage increases, and a role in staffing decisions.

Francesco Rahe from the University of Chicago has been awarded a Rhodes Scholarship and plans to study classical Indian religions and translate Sanskrit texts at Oxford.

The Willard Ice Building in Springfield, Illinois, marked its 40th anniversary, celebrating its history and namesake, Willard Ice, a significant figure in state governance.

An Illinois woman found a $1 million lottery ticket in her purse that she had forgotten about after purchasing it at a grocery store.