The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) has released its 2026 recommended childhood and adolescent immunization schedule, which differs from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) guidance in several areas, requiring healthcare professionals to provide clearer risk-based discussion and documentation when families encounter conflicting recommendations.
AAP releases 2026 childhood vaccine schedule updates—and why it matters now
Posted inEntertainment
Family Focus 3rd annual Youth Explosion celebrating creativity, and leadership
Family Focus is hosting its 3rd Annual Youth Explosion on April 11th to showcase the talents, creativity, and leadership of young people from across Chicago, and to highlight the importance of investing in safe spaces and opportunities for youth.
Posted inNews
Put the phone away or pay
The Illinois Department of Transportation and Illinois State Police are partnering to remind drivers to put their phones away and pay attention to the road during Distracted Driving Awareness Month, as distracted driving has caused 253 deaths and 28,271 injuries in Illinois between 2020 and 2024.
Posted inLifestyle
Dear EarthTalk: How can we help native plant species survive in a warmer world where their terrain is heating up as a result of climate change? — Robert Billings
Native plants are vulnerable to climate change and need human assistance to migrate to suitable environments, while conservation efforts such as seed banking, habitat protection, planting native species, and research and monitoring can help maintain biodiversity and protect ecosystems.
Posted inFood
Enjoy a Leisurely Lunch with Picnic Party Sandwiches
Picnic Party Sandwiches are the perfect filling lunch for outdoor activities, with ingredients such as herbed butter, fig preserves, cured meats, brie cheese, arugula, and lemon juice.
Posted inNews
Bill targets zoning laws that block homes for adults with disabilities
Illinois lawmakers are pushing for state-level legislation to protect the federal rights of adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities, who are often blocked from creating community living arrangements due to discriminatory local zoning laws.
Posted inNews
Dear EarthTalk: What does “phantom load” mean with regard to energy consumption, how big of a problem is it, and what can we do to prevent it? — Jim C., Provo
Phantom loads from electronic devices consume approximately $200 of electricity per household annually, contributing to a total of $19 billion in costs and 450 tons of carbon dioxide emissions, but can be reduced by unplugging devices and investing in energy-efficient appliances.
Posted inNews
JJC seeks volunteer “fixers” for Romeoville repair Café
Joliet Junior College is looking for volunteer “fixers” to help people repair everyday items at a free Repair Café event on April 18th.
Posted inLocal
East & Southeast Regional Alliance April Meeting
The Three Rivers Association of Realtors is hosting their annual Home Expo on April 18, 2026, and Ezio Community Development Services is accepting applications for their Home Remodel & Repair Grant Program, while the City of Joliet Tree Advisory Board is organizing a training program to form an Openlands TreeKeepers Chapter.
Posted inNews
In Illinois, a short-term guardianship can help youths during ICE deportations
Short-term guardianship forms can be completed by parents to protect their children in case of deportation or other crises, allowing a trusted adult to take temporary custody of the child for up to one year.
