Marisol Vega

Marisol Vega

Marisol writes about how city decisions affect everyday people. From housing and schools to city programs, she breaks down the news so it’s easy to understand. Her focus is helping readers know what’s changing and how it matters to them.

How to Apply for Medicaid or Medicare in Illinois — Step-by-Step for 2025

How to Apply for Medicaid or Medicare in Illinois — Step-by-Step for 2025

ILLINOIS — Whether you’re turning 65, living with a disability, or struggling with low income, Medicaid and Medicare are two of the most important ...

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When Will You Get Your Social Security Check Full 2025 Payment Calendar for Illinois Residents

When Will You Get Your Social Security Check? Full 2025 Payment Calendar for Illinois Residents

ILLINOIS — For millions of people across the state, the timing of their monthly Social Security check matters. Whether you’re retired, disabled, or receiving ...

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How to Check Your SNAP Balance in Illinois — Online, App, and Phone Options for July 2025

How to Check Your SNAP Balance in Illinois — Online, App, and Phone Options for July 2025

ILLINOIS — Whether you’re shopping for groceries or planning meals for the week, knowing your EBT balance is essential for every SNAP recipient. The ...

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Illinois Unemployment in 2025: Benefit Durations, Work Search Rules, and Pandemic Debt Collections Return

Illinois Unemployment in 2025: Benefit Durations, Work Search Rules, and Pandemic Debt Collections Return

ILLINOIS — As job seekers across the state continue to recover from economic shifts and inflation, the Illinois Department of Employment Security (IDES) is ...

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Illinois Medicaid and Medicare 2025 Updates: What’s New for Dental, Vision, and Monthly Costs

Illinois Medicaid and Medicare 2025 Updates: What’s New for Dental, Vision, and Monthly Costs

ILLINOIS — Millions of older adults and low-income families in Illinois rely on Medicare or Medicaid for health coverage — and 2025 is bringing ...

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Social Security July 2025 Payment Dates, COLA Updates & How to Appeal a Denial in Illinois

Social Security July 2025 Payment Dates, COLA Updates & How to Appeal a Denial in Illinois

ILLINOIS — From monthly payment schedules to rising costs of living, Social Security plays a vital role in the lives of over 2.1 million ...

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Nevada Tip Workers React as 'No Tax on Tips' Rule Takes Effect Under Trump Tax Law

Nevada Tip Workers React as ‘No Tax on Tips’ Rule Takes Effect Under Trump Tax Law

NEVADA — Service workers across Nevada are reacting to a sweeping new federal tax change that eliminates federal income taxes on tips up to ...

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Hundreds Rescued at Southern California Beaches Over July 4th Weekend Amid Dangerous Rip Currents

Hundreds Rescued at Southern California Beaches Over July 4th Weekend Amid Dangerous Rip Currents

CALIFORNIA — Over 500 swimmers were rescued across Southern California beaches this Fourth of July weekend as lifeguards battled treacherous rip currents and hazardous ...

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Don’t Drive Drunk”: Mesa Police Issue July 4 DUI Warning as Road Deaths Rise

Don’t Drive Drunk”: Mesa Police Issue July 4 DUI Warning as Road Deaths Rise

MESA — As fireworks lit up the skies this Independence Day, authorities in Mesa, Arizona were battling a more sobering reality on the ground: ...

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Phoenix Breaks Heat Records as Deadly Streak of 100+ Degree Days Sparks Public Outcry and Health Crisis

Phoenix Heatwave Breaks Records as 100+ Degree Streak Spurs Deadly Health Crisis

PHOENIX — A dangerous, record-breaking heatwave has gripped Arizona’s capital, with Phoenix enduring over 17 consecutive days of 100+ degree temperatures, placing the city ...

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