The West Suburban Community Pantry has seen a 33% increase in visitors, with 660 first-time visitors since October 28th, and has added volunteer shifts and delivery services to handle the increased demand.
News
Posted inNews
Illinois Prison Mail Scanning Program Faces Backlash From Families and Advocates
The Illinois Department of Corrections has launched a program to scan incoming mail to prisoners in an effort to reduce drugs and contraband from entering prisons, but critics argue it violates prisoners’ civil rights and there is little evidence to suggest it will be effective.
Posted inSports
Joliet Slammers 2026 season tickets plan on sale now
The Joliet Slammers have released their Full Season, Half Season, and 10-Game Ticket Plans for the 2026 season, offering fans exclusive benefits and discounts.
Posted inLifestyle
Joliet Council approves new Mexican restaurant for vacant space at train station
The Joliet City Council unanimously approved a five-year lease agreement for Casa Catrina Mexican Heritage Cuisine to occupy the former McGrain Brewery space in the old Joliet Union Station, which is expected to generate over $694,000 in rent and taxes.
Posted inNews
Illinois treasurer faces no GOP challenger as 2026 primary ballots take shape
Illinois Treasurer Mike Frerichs is unopposed for a fourth term as the state’s chief investment officer, as no Republican filed to run for state treasurer by the close of the weeklong filing period for the March 17 primary election, marking the first time in at least 90 years a major party has failed to field a candidate for a statewide office.
Posted inNews
Joliet and surrounding communities who rely on SNAP receive help
The government shutdown has paused the distribution of SNAP benefits, prompting many area residents to seek alternative ways to put food on the table, while the Trump administration has warned that there could be lengthy delays before benefits are available.
Posted inState
Governor Pritzker Pushes for Tax Code Changes to Mitigate Impact of Federal Cuts
Illinois lawmakers have passed a bill to Gov. JB Pritzker that makes changes to the state’s tax code in response to federal tax policies that could reduce state revenue, potentially saving the state $250 million in FY26.
Posted inLatest News
Senator Ventura Votes No on IDOC Director Amid Prison Safety Concerns
State Senator Rachel Ventura is voting against the re-appointment of Illinois Department of Corrections Director Latoya Hughes due to ongoing health issues, human rights violations, and safety concerns in Illinois prisons.
Posted inNews
Community Collaboration Offers Flex Payment Support for Families Affected by Gun Violence
Joliet Township Government, Inner City Empowerment CDC, and Kankakee Forgives have partnered to provide $15,000 in Flex Payment assistance to families affected by firearm violence in the communities of Chicago Heights and Kankakee.
Posted inCommentary
Halfway to Chains: What’s already been enforced under Project 2025
Nearly half of the Heritage Foundation’s fascist Project 2025 agenda to dismantle American democracy has been put into motion, with civil rights being eroded, public programs being gutted, and racial hierarchy being reimposed.
