Under twinkling holiday lights on Christmas morning, recruits at the Great Lakes Training Center experienced a rare day of connection and reprieve. The training center, usually defined by its strict routines and rigorous demands, was transformed into a home away from home. Community members, waving American flags, lined the space to greet recruits, their presence […]
Category: 1-Draft
Posted in1-Draft
Marist alum Robert Clifford donates $1 million for scholarships
Robert Clifford credits Marist High School for changing his life. Clifford, a 1969 graduate of the school at 4200 W. 115th St. in Chicago, spent his high school years working in a lumberyard for his father, a carpenter. Without a defined career path, Clifford assumed he would follow in his father’s footsteps. “Looking back, I […]
Posted in1-Draft
Hashtag 95 brings trendy brunch culture to Oak Lawn
A new brunch spot in Oak Lawn is making waves with its stylish vibe and creative menu. Hashtag 95, located at 6260 95th St., opened its doors in September and has quickly become a hotspot for foodies and social media enthusiasts alike. Owned by Palos Park couple Nick and Jacki Perakis, the restaurant aims to […]
Posted in1-Draft
D218 public relations coordinator Bob McParland retires
For 35 years, Bob McParland was the storyteller behind the scenes at Community High School District 218, a public relations specialist whose warmth, wit, and unwavering dedication made him the voice of a district that thrived on connection and collaboration. Known for his boundless knowledge, sharp communication skills, and a knack for engaging storytelling, McParland […]
Posted in1-Draft
OLCHS senior drives school to third Vocabulary Bowl victory
Oak Lawn Community High School senior Nathan Radloff has achieved global recognition, securing second place worldwide in Vocabulary.com’s prestigious Vocabulary Bowl. “This accomplishment is not merely a numerical ranking; it signifies perseverance, dedication, and an unwavering commitment to the enhancement of our linguistic prowess,” Radloff, of Oak Lawn, said. “Each word we acquire enriches our […]
Posted in1-Draft
Turning pines to paths: Lake Katherine’s tree recycling initiative
The holiday season is over, and now you’re left with a 7-foot problem shedding needles in your living room. Was it a good idea to adopt a live Christmas tree? Absolutely. Is it a good idea to keep it forever? Not unless you’re starting an indoor pine forest. So, what do you do with this […]
Posted inChicago - Garfield Ridge
Families Embrace Tradition at Snack with Santa on Chicago’s Southwest Side
Families braved the December chill Saturday morning, forming a line around Mayfield Banquet Hall for the 41st annual Snack with Santa event. Inside, Theresa Santucci and Ruben Saucedo, dressed as Mr. and Mrs. Claus, greeted children with smiles and gifts. “Even in blizzards, families line up down the block,” said Mary Ann Dybala, who founded […]
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From the battlefield to the home front: Jim Kruse’s mission to honor and support veterans
Jim Kruse dedicates his life to uplifting troops, veterans and his community Jim Kruse stands at the center of a bustling community hall, his hands steady as he folds a handwritten card into a care package. Around him, volunteers laugh and chat, but his focus never wavers. “This isn’t just about the packages,” he said. […]
Posted in1-Draft, State News
First look: New Illinois state flag designs unveiled
Capitol News Illinois After a closely watched presidential election, Illinoisans will have another chance to cast a vote in a few weeks – this time, for a new state flag. The Illinois Flag Commission this week released 10 potential new designs for the state flag after lawmakers moved in 2023 to explore replacing the current […]
Posted in1-Draft, State News
As budget tightens, report finds Illinois better prepared for recession than in recent past
Capitol News Illinois State lawmakers will face a projected budget deficit and slowing revenue when they return to Springfield in January, but a new report shows fiscal decisions made in recent years have put Illinois in a better position to handle a recession than any time in recent decades. No state is immune from the […]