The Los Angeles fires may be the most costly natural disaster in US history. An expert on safety, risk reduction and complex systems calls for a blue-ribbon commission to analyze their causes.
A national, nonpartisan study of the Los Angeles fires could improve planning for future disasters
Posted inNational
Insurance for natural disasters is failing homeowners − I don’t have the answers, but I do know the right questions to ask
What are the goals of the insurance? Who is being insured? And how are policyholders and their risks classified?
Posted inFood & Wine
Wine of the Week: The latest Bordeaux wines from France make their U.S, Debut to start the new year
Bordeaux wine enthusiasts can taste the exceptional 2022 vintage from over 80 prestigious producers at the Union des Grands Crus de Bordeaux’s national tour, which is stopping at the Drake Hotel in Chicago.
Posted inState
Rep. Avelar begins new term focused on healthcare access, helping families
State Representative Dagmara “Dee” Avelar has been re-elected to the Illinois House and is continuing her efforts to make healthcare more affordable, cut grocery taxes, and increase salary transparency in job postings.
Posted inEnvironment
Dear Earthtalk: What is Jimmy Carter’s environmental legacy?
Jimmy Carter’s environmental legacy, including his efforts in land preservation, energy efficiency, and climate activism, has had a lasting impact on environmental policy and continues to inspire future efforts to address ecological challenges.
Posted inOpinion
Give Your Life One More Chance
One should not give up on their marriage, weight loss, or relationship with God, as these are all worth saving and will bring peace of mind in the long run.
Posted inRegional
Free tax preparation with Joliet Township Government’s VITA Program for qualifying individuals
Joliet Township Government is offering the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program for the fourth consecutive season, providing free tax preparation services to individuals with a total income of less than $65,000 and seniors, regardless of income level.
Posted inLocal
City of Joliet winter weather guidelines, snowplow tracking now available
The City of Joliet has implemented a snow removal plan for the 2025 winter season, including tracking of snowplows, a snow parking ban, and guidelines for shoveling and mailboxes, to ensure the safety of its residents during snowstorms.
Posted inLocal
Illinoisans may be able to file federal taxes for free; state announces Apple ID licenses
Illinois residents will be able to use the IRS Direct File service to electronically prepare and file their 2024 federal tax returns for free, and the service will connect users to MyTax Illinois for their state returns.
Posted inNational
Special Counsel’s report details Systematic efforts by Trump to overturn 2020 Election
The Special Counsel’s office found sufficient evidence to convict former President Donald Trump for his attempts to overturn the 2020 presidential election results and manipulate the electoral outcome.
