Beneath the glittering lights of Palos Park, a cherished tradition brought warmth and wonder to the community. Families gathered under a canopy of twinkling stars and vibrant holiday lights to witness the annual tree lighting ceremony, a moment that ignited the spirit of Christmas. The towering evergreen lit up with countless shimmering bulbs, and the […]
Category: Regional New News
Orland Park retirement home’s 87-year-old dancing queen becomes viral sensation
Shirley Hair, 87, leapt from her wheelchair to dance with a Michael Jackson tribute artist at a Halloween party, becoming a viral sensation.
Families brave the cold for beloved Orland Park Christmas tradition
Braving 25-degree temperatures and a biting wind chill that made it feel like 15, Orland Park residents bundled in blankets, winter coats, and hats gathered for Sunday’s beloved Christmas Parade. “Even in the cold, this parade warms your heart,” said Cathy Garner, who joined her twin daughters for the festive tradition. The parade, held at […]
Palos Hills bans short-term rentals, prioritizing safety and community growth
The Palos Hills City Council voted Dec. 5 to ban short-term rentals in all residential zoning districts, amending the municipal code. The ordinance, introduced by Alderman Peter Donahue, aims to protect the safety and character of local neighborhoods. The new rules prohibit renting residential properties for fewer than 30 consecutive days, targeting practices common to […]
Palos Heights City Council discusses infrastructure, economic development, and community events
On Dec. 3, the Palos Heights City Council reviewed an agenda that included infrastructure improvements, economic projects, and community updates. The council addressed over 30 items aimed at city operations and planning. The council approved multiple motions related to water, sewer, and maintenance systems. Key decisions included: Engineering services were also approved, including $6,000 for […]
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. […]
Oak Lawn man keeps Rudolph’s legacy glowing after 60 years
Sixty years ago, a stop-motion reindeer with a glowing red nose first appeared on television, sparking a holiday tradition that continues to warm hearts worldwide. “Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer” premiered on Dec. 6, 1964, and has since become the longest-running Christmas special in history. Its themes of acceptance, resilience and celebrating differences resonate as deeply […]
Oak Lawn delivers an early gift: No property tax hike
Oak Lawn residents received an early Christmas present Tuesday night with the announcement that property taxes will not go up in 2025. Residents received the good news during the Oak Lawn Village Board meeting. Trustee Alex Olejniczak (2nd) was ecstatic that property taxes will not rise next year. “I want to thank the board for […]

