Christopher Anne Affleck, mother of actors Ben and Casey Affleck, passed away in June following a battle with a terminal illness, as announced by the family on July 23. She was 82 years old. Known for her role as a civil rights organizer and educator, Affleck received her diagnosis in December 2025 and was informed […]
The start of 2026 brimmed with excitement for Julika Feix, who had just turned 18. Graduation was on the horizon, and she anticipated a summer full of memories with friends. She focused on completing her senior year, maintaining her routines despite noticing some worrying symptoms. Early Signs Overlooked In early 2026, bruises appeared on her […]
Ariana Cubillos, a Colombian photojournalist, has been capturing moments of social unrest and humanitarian crises for The Associated Press since 2004. Based in Caracas, Venezuela, since 2009, she previously spent five years reporting from Haiti. Her photography captures raw emotions and profound experiences. The Story Behind the Photo On a mission to document families searching […]
Sixty-three percent of U.S. voters now oppose the construction of AI data centers near their communities, according to a new poll by Emerson College. This is an increase of 21 percentage points from December 2025. The shift signals growing concerns over the costs associated with these facilities, such as increased electricity bills and fears about […]
Jimothy, a raccoon from Seattle, has become an internet sensation this week. A video showing his unique physique, influenced by a rare congenital condition, captivated millions. This condition is more common in dogs but has affected Jimothy, making his body appear rounder and smaller than typical raccoons. Spotted on July 13 by Kiana Hall, Jimothy’s […]
This weekend marks the 32nd edition of Whiting’s Pierogi Fest, recognized as one of the nation’s most unique festivals. Spanning 119th Street in downtown Whiting, the event offers attractions for visitors of all ages. Friday night features the annual Polka Parade, with colorful participants like the crowd-pleasing Lawnmower Brigade. The parade begins at Forsythe Park […]
An unusually shaped raccoon, affectionately named Jimothy, has taken the internet by storm. This Seattle-based raccoon has not only captured online attention but also inspired a variety of creative expressions, including a mural, tattoos, and even a subreddit dedicated to his quirky appearance. Jimothy’s journey to fame began when Kiana Hall posted an Instagram video […]
In the South Bronx, where the usual sounds are those of basketball or baseball, the community now hears lacrosse balls hitting goals. This change comes from Bronx Lacrosse, founded by Dan Leventhal. He sees the local turf fields as crucial for the sport’s future. Leventhal, a former college lacrosse player and Teach for America corps […]
The narrative of Chicago’s Austin community is often dominated by statistics. Homicide numbers, crime maps, and poverty rates usually headline discussions, painting a grim picture of violence and hardship. While these issues exist, there is a different side to Austin. It is a community of neighbors who know each other, vacant lots turned into gardens, […]
The long-running show at Tommy Gun’s Garage in Chicago’s South Loop ended due to the COVID-19 pandemic after 31 successful years. Known for its interactive dinner theater set in the 1920s, it featured comedic gangsters and flappers. Pat Pohrte, who played ‘Bugsy,’ was determined to keep this tradition alive. With the blessing of original creators […]