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.

Evanston Workers: Minimum Wage Just Increased — Here’s the New Rate for July 2025

Evanston Workers: Minimum Wage Just Increased — Here’s the New Rate for July 2025

EVANSTON, ILLINOIS — If you’re working a part-time or hourly job in Evanston, your paycheck might be slightly larger this month. That’s because Evanston ...

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How to File for Unemployment in Illinois Full 2025 Guide for New Claimants

How to File for Unemployment in Illinois: Full 2025 Guide for New Claimants

ILLINOIS — If you’ve recently lost your job, had your hours cut, or were laid off due to economic conditions, you may be eligible ...

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Illinois Medicaid and Medicare Delays in 2025: Wait Times, Recertification Backlogs, and Premium Pressures

Illinois Medicaid and Medicare Delays in 2025: Wait Times, Recertification Backlogs, and Premium Pressures

ILLINOIS — If you’ve applied for Medicaid or Medicare in 2025 — or tried to renew your benefits — there’s a good chance you’ve ...

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How to Apply for SSDI or SSI in Illinois — And What To Do If You’re Denied

How to Apply for SSDI or SSI in Illinois — And What To Do If You’re Denied

ILLINOIS — If you’re unable to work due to a serious illness or disability, you may qualify for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) or ...

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Illinois SNAP Rule Changes in 2025: What’s New for Food Stamp Recipients This Year

Illinois SNAP Rule Changes in 2025: What’s New for Food Stamp Recipients This Year

ILLINOIS — A number of important changes to SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program) policies took effect in 2025 — and they’re already impacting thousands ...

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Chicago Hotels Are Banning Plastic Toiletries Starting July 2025

Chicago Hotels Are Banning Plastic Toiletries Starting July 2025

CHICAGO — Starting July 1, 2025, hotels across the city are no longer allowed to offer single-use plastic toiletry bottles, including the travel-size shampoos, ...

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Cook County Workers: Minimum Wage Just Increased — But It’s Still Lower Than Chicago

Cook County Workers: Minimum Wage Just Increased — But It’s Still Lower Than Chicago

COOK COUNTY, ILLINOIS — If you work in a Cook County suburb outside of Chicago, your paycheck may look slightly different this month. That’s ...

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Illinois Job Assistance in 2025: Where to Get Help Finding Work, Reskilling, or Career Coaching

Illinois Job Assistance in 2025: Where to Get Help Finding Work, Reskilling, or Career Coaching

ILLINOIS — Whether you’re newly unemployed, switching careers, or returning to the workforce after years away, Illinois offers a range of free job assistance ...

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Medicare vs Medicaid in Illinois What’s the Difference and Which One Is Right for You

Medicare vs Medicaid in Illinois: What’s the Difference and Which One Is Right for You?

ILLINOIS — If you’re looking for health coverage in 2025, you’ve probably heard about both Medicare and Medicaid. But understanding how these two programs ...

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Illinois Residents: How Much More Are You Getting From Social Security in 2025?

Illinois Residents: How Much More Are You Getting From Social Security in 2025?

ILLINOIS — For more than 2 million people across the state, Social Security benefits are a lifeline — and every cost-of-living adjustment (COLA) matters. ...

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