Automatic college acceptances: A new law will send direct admission letters to Illinois juniors starting fall 2026, expanding Eastern Illinois University’s pilot program — find out how it works.
Central Illinois art round-up: Discover the latest gallery showcases and cultural installations, including the signature wall near the Green Room at Bloomington Center for the Performing Arts — check out what’s on display.
Knights fuel pantry expansion: The Utica Fr. Marquette Council donated $2,000 to the Illinois Valley Food Pantry’s “Feeding the Future” fund as it began its move to a larger Peru facility on July 1 — find out how.
Illinois pizza claims top spots: Two Chicago eateries—Robert’s Pizza & Dough Company at No. 6 and Coda di Volpe at No. 44—land on Italian platform 50 Top Pizza’s 2025 U.S. list — find out which spots made the cut.
Century-old learning on the go: 100 years ago, Illinois State geography students took to Chicago’s streets for a hands-on mapping adventure — find out what they discovered.
Under-the-Radar Southern Illinois: From 300-foot limestone bluffs and fairytale trails in Shawnee National Forest to award-winning wineries and artisanal village shops, this emerging travel hotspot is enchanting nature, wine, and art enthusiasts — find out why.
Illinois faces youth exodus: A Chicago Tribune editorial warns Illinois is aging faster than the national average—its median age has climbed to 39.4 as young residents leave and birthrates lag, threatening the state’s workforce and economy— find out how Gov. Pritzker’s new college affordability law aims to keep them home.
Housing funding slashed: The FY26 Illinois budget cuts over $14 million from homelessness prevention and other housing programs even as homelessness spiked 116% last year — find out why.
Illinois moves to ban AI therapists: The new Wellness and Oversight for Psychological Resources Act forbids AI-driven counseling without a licensed professional’s review and is now headed to Gov. Pritzker’s desk — find out how this could reshape therapy.
Illinois environmental advocates unite: Progressive groups convened in Champaign to strengthen ties with lawmakers, boost rural outreach and press for plastics bans, grid upgrades and aquifer protections — find out how.
Other Illinois headlines this week
- IDOR urges late filers to take action
- Illinois signed DARPA quantum proving ground deal
- Starved Rock Coffee Co. roasts global flavors
- SNAP and Medicaid cuts imperil Illinois residents
- Cutbacks could imperil Illinois farmers and soil
- Illinois data centers fuel surging electric bills
- Illinois legislator pursues tip-tax repeal after Congress
- Paralyzed Illinois woman quilts one-handed after stroke
