County Treasurer Maria Pappas is urging residents to go to cookcountytreasurer.com to see if they are...

Will County has reached the Severe Risk level for daily COVID infections and positive test rates, according to county health officials. The most recent figures show the rate of new cases at 192 per 100 thousand population (total population 690,000), with a positive test rate of 22%. The vaccination rate remains at just over 70% of all residents with 1 dose or more of COVID vaccine. Hospitalizations, cases and deaths have experienced a sudden spike over the past 30 days after a slight decrease.

Trees Forever is announcing a funding opportunity for Illinois communities to diversify their community forests or recover from natural or man-made disasters, particularly emerald ash borer (EAB). Trees Forever is accepting applications for Recover, Replant, Restore! tree planting grants February 1 through 25. Grants of $500 to $3,000 are available to plant more diverse disease-resistant and storm-resistant shade trees. Eligible projects include planting trees in public spaces, such as along streets and trails, community entryways, at schools, public buildings, parks and more.