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.

Armed Robbery Suspect Dies After Hickory Hills Police Shootout

Armed Robbery Suspect Dies After Hickory Hills Police Shootout

HICKORY HILLS, IL — A man suspected in an armed robbery was pronounced dead after a dramatic shootout with Hickory Hills police officers on ...

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Gas Line Struck by Construction Crew Shuts Down Traffic on Harlem Avenue

BRIDGEVIEW, IL — A construction mishap caused significant traffic disruption Friday afternoon after a crew struck a gas line, prompting authorities to shut down ...

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Oak Lawn Sees 31% Drop in Seat Belt Citations During Memorial Day Crackdown

OAK LAWN, IL — A recent Memorial Day traffic enforcement campaign by the Oak Lawn Police Department has resulted in a notable drop in ...

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Illinois Homebuyers Don’t Need Huge Salary Increases to Afford Starter Homes

Illinois First-Time Buyers Can Still Afford Homes Without Major Salary Boost — Here’s Why

ILLINOIS – Amid a national housing affordability crisis, a new report by Realtor.com and Yahoo Lifestyle finds that Illinois remains one of the most ...

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Illinois 2026 Budget: Key Proposals, Tax Plans & What Comes Next

Tax Hikes, Pension Costs & Transit Gaps: Inside Illinois’ 2026 Budget Deadline Push

SPRINGFIELD, IL – As lawmakers near the May 31 deadline to pass the 2026 state budget, Illinois residents face a wave of uncertainty—from rising ...

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Illinois Lawmakers Propose $55 Billion Budget With New Tax Plans

Illinois Lawmakers Reveal $55B Budget Plan Just Before Deadline

SPRINGFIELD, IL – With just one day left in the legislative session, Illinois lawmakers have introduced a $55 billion spending proposal that includes targeted ...

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Lume Wellness Brings First EXOMIND Mental Health Treatment to Chicago

Lume Wellness Brings EXOMIND Mental Health Tech to Chicago with Summer Discounts

CHICAGO, IL — May 31, 2025 – Lume Wellness has become the first location in Chicago to offer the EXOMIND brain stimulation treatment, an ...

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Illinois’ $770M Transit Budget Crisis Threatens Commutes Across the State

ILLINOIS — As lawmakers near the end of their spring session, a looming $770 million budget gap threatens to significantly reduce public transit service ...

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Cresco Labs Posts $30M in Operating Cash Flow for Q1 2025, Strengthens Financial Position

Cresco Labs Posts $30M in Operating Cash Flow for Q1 2025, Strengthens Financial Position

CHICAGO, IL – May 30, 2025 — Cresco Labs Inc., a national leader in cannabis production and retail, has reported robust financials for the ...

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ILLINOIS — The National Weather Service has issued a severe thunderstorm alert for large parts of northern Illinois Friday evening, warning residents to prepare for damaging wind gusts, downpours, and hail as a fast-moving system crosses the region. The strongest storms are expected between 4:00 p.m. and 9:00 p.m., with areas east of Interstate 39 most at risk — including Chicago, Rockford, and Joliet. Key Hazards and Locations The storm system could bring: Wind gusts exceeding 60 mph Lightning strikes Short-duration downpours Isolated hail Specific counties affected include: Cook DuPage Lake McHenry Will Heavily traveled corridors like I-55, I-90, and U.S. 30 may see temporary disruptions or delays due to storm activity. Preparedness Recommended Officials advise residents to: Charge cellphones and devices in advance Delay unnecessary travel during the storm window Monitor multiple sources for alerts, including the NOAA Weather Radio and official emergency notifications The storms are expected to clear the region by late evening, but brief localized flooding and travel hazards may linger into the night. Keeping Families Safe During Summer Storm Season Weather experts remind families across Illinois that even brief storm cells can disrupt plans, especially when coupled with high winds and hail. Outdoor events, road trips, and backyard activities should be rescheduled or adapted to reduce exposure. Storms Forecast to Strike Northern Illinois Late Friday

Thunderstorms Expected Across Illinois Friday Evening, Wind and Hail Risk High

ILLINOIS — The National Weather Service has issued a severe thunderstorm alert for large parts of northern Illinois Friday evening, warning residents to prepare ...

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