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.

Illinois Domestic Violence Hotline Calls Surge in 2024 Amid Suburban Shelter Shortages

Illinois Domestic Violence Hotline Calls Surge in 2024 Amid Suburban Shelter Shortages

CHICAGO — Calls to the Illinois Domestic Violence Hotline surged to record levels in 2024, with nearly 60,000 contacts made statewide — a 26% ...

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Chicago Restaurants Warn Tip Law Change Could Cut Jobs and Raise Prices

Chicago Restaurants Warn Tip Law Change Could Cut Jobs and Raise Prices

CHICAGO — A new ordinance being considered by the Chicago City Council is facing growing backlash from local restaurant owners and industry advocates, who ...

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Fiscal Watchdog Calls for State Oversight of CPS as $529M Budget Crisis Deepens

Fiscal Watchdog Calls for State Oversight of CPS as $529M Budget Crisis Deepens

CHICAGO — With Chicago Public Schools (CPS) facing a staggering $529 million budget deficit and no clear funding path ahead, a new report from ...

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Chicago Chefs Steal the Spotlight in ‘Top Chef’ Finale, Even as Houston’s Epps Claims the Crown

Chicago Chefs Steal the Spotlight in ‘Top Chef’ Finale, Even as Houston’s Epps Claims the Crown

CHICAGO — While Houston’s Tristen Epps may have walked away with the Top Chef Season 22 crown, it was Chicago’s culinary community that delivered ...

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Safe Passage Program Faces Uncertainty as CPS Struggles With $529M Deficit

Safe Passage Program Faces Uncertainty as CPS Struggles With $529M Deficit

CHICAGO — As Chicago Public Schools grapples with a staggering $529 million budget deficit, hundreds of Safe Passage workers who help protect students during ...

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North Side Landmarks Shine Along Chicago’s Lakefront Trail In Summer Architecture Tour

North Side Landmarks Shine Along Chicago’s Lakefront Trail In Summer Architecture Tour

CHICAGO — A summer stroll or bike ride along Chicago’s Lakefront Trail offers more than just scenic views — it’s a walking architectural museum. ...

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Ameren Illinois Customers Face 22% Jump in Summer Power Costs

Ameren Illinois Customers Face 22% Jump in Summer Power Costs

ILLINOIS — Residents across the state are bracing for a jump in their monthly electricity bills this summer, as Ameren Illinois confirms a significant ...

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190 S. LaSalle Tower in Chicago May Sell for Just 30% of Its 2019 Price

190 S. LaSalle Tower in Chicago May Sell for Just 30% of Its 2019 Price

ILLINOIS — A prominent Loop skyscraper that once sold for over $230 million is now reportedly being negotiated for a steeply discounted price of ...

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Illinois Claims 25% Pension Improvement — But State Debt Has Actually Grown to $144.3B

Illinois Claims 25% Pension Improvement — But State Debt Has Actually Grown to $144.3B

ILLINOIS — A growing financial gap is shaking confidence in Illinois’ pension reform narrative as new data shows unfunded liabilities have surged to $144.3 ...

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CPS CEO Martinez Says Mayor and Union Tried To Force Bailout as He Exits Top Post

CPS CEO Martinez Says Mayor and Union Tried To Force Bailout as He Exits Top Post

CHICAGO — In his final public remarks as head of Chicago Public Schools, Pedro Martinez delivered a scathing rebuke of both City Hall and ...

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