Original News, Features & Opinion on Chicago, Illinois and America
Orland Fire to host Coffee & Conversation Feb 25 on: Protecting your Finances, Info for Seniors, & Staying Safe Orland Park, IL — The Orland Fire Protection District and Fire Chief Kevin Doyle will host the next “Coffee & Conversation” on Wednesday, February 25, 2026, from 10 am until 12:00 pm at the OFPD Board…
Hastings files bill to protect homeowners from post-storm contractor scams State Senator Michael E. Hastings filed legislation aimed at protecting Illinois homeowners from deceptive and high-pressure contractor practices that often follow severe weather and natural disasters. “After a major storm, families are overwhelmed and trying to protect their homes, not negotiate contracts on their front…
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Man Arrested for Aggravated Criminal Sexual Abuse On January 28, 2026, the Orland Park Police Department arrested Brett Smith, 43, following an investigation into allegations of sexual abuse involving a juvenile and the advertising of private tutoring services on social media. Smith turned himself in at the Orland Park Police Department after detectives attempted to…
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Chicago Couple Among Nine Individuals Charged in Federal Drug Investigation A federal drug investigation has resulted in criminal charges against nine individuals for allegedly trafficking cocaine in the Chicago area. The investigation, led by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Chicago Police Department, utilized covert surveillance operations, undercover narcotics purchases, and wiretapped communications to…
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How a Treasurer’s Office Study Closed a Loophole that Allowed Wealthy Investors to Siphon Hundreds of Millions of Dollars from Low-Income areas For years, wealthy investors exploited loopholes in the property tax system to funnel money from local schools and governments into their collective wallets. But the loopholes were closed after a Cook County Treasurer’s…
Hastings introduces legislation to strengthen cannabis safety and prevent child access State Senator Michael E. Hastings introduced Senate Bill 2866, legislation designed to strengthen safety requirements for cannabis products and reduce the risk of accidental ingestion by children. “While cannabis is legal for adult use in Illinois, we must continue to take responsible steps to…
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Suburban Chicago Man Sentenced to 48 Years in Federal Prison for Sexually Exploiting a Minor A suburban Chicago man has been sentenced to 48 years in federal prison for enticing a minor to engage in sexually explicit conduct. Tercalo E. Thomas enticed, persuaded, and used a prepubescent minor to engage in illegal sexual conduct, which…
Cook County Treasurer Maria Pappas Endorses Richard Boykin for 7th Congressional District Seat Cook County Treasurer Maria Pappas is throwing her support behind former Cook County Commissioner Richard Boykin in his quest to become the next US Congressman in the 7th District. In her video announcement, Pappas points out that Boykin was one of her…