A lottery player from Harwood Heights won $2 million from a scratch-off ticket bought at a local Shell gas station, which had sold a $600,000 ticket before. Another Chicago resident had previously won $1 million from a 50X Payout ticket.

Cook County's population decline slowed in 2023, losing 24,000 residents, with a trend of more people leaving for other U.S. locations but partially offset by international migration.

St. Louis' City Museum breaks the Guinness World Record for "Most People Wearing Underwear on Their Head," with 355 participants, surpassing Naperville's previous record.

Time Out ranks Chicago's 18th Street in Pilsen among the world's coolest streets, while Melbourne's High Street tops the list, highlighting local culture and community vibrancy.

Illinois Attorney General Kwame Raoul joins a coalition to block an Idaho law criminalizing gender-affirming care for transgender minors, supporting a challenge to the statute.

The 53rd Chicago Pride Parade is set for the last Sunday in June, highlighting the theme "Pride is Power" and emphasizing continued advocacy for LGBTQ+ rights.

Illinois experiences lottery excitement as the Mega Millions and Powerball jackpots surpass $1 billion, with draws for $687 million and $521 million respectively. Players are reminded to gamble responsibly during Problem Gambling Awareness Month.

St. Frances of Rome School in Cicero remains open thanks to a grant from the Big Shoulders Fund after protests against local Catholic school closures.

Chicago couples are finding ways to have cost-effective weddings amidst the average city price of $56,000, choosing budget-friendly venues and DIY approaches.

Chicago celebrates its 187th birthday with a city-held bash and a $187 luxury hot dog from Bar Pendry, highlighting the city's historic significance and love for indulgent treats.

Migrants in Chicago shelters face critical shortages of essentials, like diapers, prompting concern about the living conditions and lack of supplies. City officials cite supply shortages as the cause.

Maryum Ali celebrated her father Muhammad Ali's legacy at Islamic Foundation School, where its athletic center was named after him on the school's 50th anniversary.

Illinois prepares for Presidents Day closures including government offices and no mail delivery, but retail stores like Walmart remain open, CPS schools closed, and most banks shut down. UPS and FedEx to continue deliveries.