Maestro Stilian Kirov, Gibb Music Director of Illinois Philharmonic Orchestra, has been named 2026 Conductor of the Year (Professional) by the Illinois Council of Orchestras. Kirov has been the Illinois Philharmonic Orchestra’s (IPO) Gibb Music Director since the orchestra’s 2017–2018 season. “I am deeply honored to be named Conductor of[Read More…]
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Nicor Gas reminds customers to call 811 during safe digging month
With warmer temperatures finally here, many Illinois residents are ready to begin spring home improvement projects. Nicor Gas reminds customers and communities to follow safe digging guidelines and always Dig with C.A.R.E. Call before you dig. Contact 811 or visit illinois1call.com at least two business days before digging, excluding the[Read More…]
D161 awards tenure to 33 teachers
District 161 school board grants tenure to 33 teachers at the March 9 board meeting. Under new Illinois Board of Education rules, staff hired after July 1, 2023, receive tenure after three years. Previously, tenure was granted after four years. Tenure was awarded to 24 teachers who have successfully completed[Read More…]
Drama Group’s ‘Cabaret’ opens April 10
The story of the cabaret in 1920s Berlin comes to live when the Drama Group presents the musical “Cabaret” opening Friday, April 10. Through songs and commentary, the Master of Ceremonies welcomes the audience and assures them they will forget all their troubles. Life is beautiful at the cabaret, as[Read More…]
County assessor invites property owners to apply for exemptions
By Jon BannisterThe Lansing JournalMarch 14, 2026Reposted with permission. Cook County homeowners can now apply for property tax exemptions that could save them hundreds of dollars each year, county officials announced Wednesday, March 11. Cook County Assessor Fritz Kaegi opened the annual exemption application period during a press conference at[Read More…]
Homewood announces retirement of Deputy Fire Chief Steve DeJong
The Village of Homewood has announced the retirement of Deputy Fire Chief Steve DeJong, marking the end of a distinguished career in fire service spanning more than two decades. DeJong will transition into his next chapter of service as Administrative Section Chief for MABAS Illinois. DeJong was hired by the[Read More…]
Pappas study calls for halt to runaway property taxes
Cook County property taxes have grown at twice the rate of inflation over the past three decades, forcing home and business owners to turn over an ever-greater percentage of their annual earnings to local governments, according to a study released Monday by Treasurer Maria Pappas. During those 30 years, property[Read More…]
DeLuca measure encouraging rehabilitative services for juvenile firearm offenders heads to house floor
To help make communities safer and give youth a chance at a better future, state Rep. Anthony DeLuca, D-Chicago Heights, has advanced legislation that would encourage qualified minors involved in multiple firearm offenses to participate in restorative justice programs – such as social service programs, cognitive behavioral therapy and mentoring. [Read More…]
Wind Creek Chicago Southland opens sportsbook in casino
Wind Creek Chicago Southland is raising the stakes with the official opening of the property’s state-of-the-art sportsbook, powered by Kambi, in the East Hazel Crest casino. Located directly on the casino floor, this latest offering provides guests with a new way to watch and wager on their favorite sporting events. Spanning[Read More…]
County provides tips to keep pets safe during coyote mating season
Coyote mating and whelping season lasts through May, and until then, coyotes are establishing territories and dens to whelp their pups. Until pups are weaned, coyotes are more visible and more aggressive. The Cook County Department of Animal and Rabies Control and the Forest Preserves of Cook County offer the[Read More…]



