Cook County Lifestyle
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New businesses, fond farewells and historic preservation: A look back at the top stories of 2025 in Talk of the TownDec 29, 2025 9:57 am - New businesses and developments, historic preservation, museums and a fairy garden were among the top stories in Dave Heun’s Talk of the Town column in 2025.
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Why gray squirrels and black walnuts go together so wellDec 28, 2025 3:00 am - For many years, we’ve been finding black walnut bits on the benches surrounding our campfire circle. I know where the walnuts come from and I know gray squirrels are eating them.
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Dealing with unwanted gifts takes a little creativity — and a lot of tactDec 26, 2025 8:26 am - Whether it’s a Big Mouth Billy Bass, a cherub tchotchke or a crime scene pen holder, recipients should remember when it comes to gifts it’s the thought that counts. That said, there’s always regifting ... if you are careful!
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The ‘best birds’ of 2025: Snowy Owl, Mountain Bluebird and more arrived this yearDec 26, 2025 2:00 am - As 2025 comes to a close, “Words on Birds” columnist Jeff Reiter takes a look back at the year in birding.
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Christians celebrate Christmas Eve service with worship, fellowship and seasonal messageDec 24, 2025 5:02 pm - Worshippers gathered early Wednesday afternoon at Willow Creek Community Church in South Barrington for one of its multiple Christmas Eve services.
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Dog tests positive for rabies in Cook CountyDec 23, 2025 1:10 pm - Cook County is reporting a dog has tested positive for rabies, the first in more than 60 years.
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DuPagePads opens new warming center in WheatonDec 23, 2025 12:18 pm - Due to increasing demand for emergency winter shelter for people experiencing homelessness, DuPagePads is offering a new overnight warming site in Wheaton.
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DuPage Foundation awards $100,000 in emergency food response grantsDec 22, 2025 2:37 pm - DuPage Foundation has awarded $100,000 in emergency food response grants to five agencies to help fight food insecurity.
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Brookfield Zoo animals celebrate the holidays with enriching treatsDec 22, 2025 1:29 pm - Guests at Brookfield Zoo Chicago “Holiday Magic” show aren’t the only ones getting into the holiday spirit. The animal care specialists keep things fresh for the animals with holiday-themed treats or fun activities.
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‘A breath of fresh air’: Years after losing to Casten, ex-Rep. Marie Newman backs his latest challengerDec 22, 2025 10:25 am - Former U.S. Rep. Marie Newman has endorsed a politcal newcomer over U.S. Rep. Sean Casten in the Democratic primary for Illinois’ 6th District seat.