Category Archives: illinois politics
When Did Slavery Really End in the U.S.? The Complicated History of Juneteenth
The push to make Juneteenth a federal holiday, which successfully led to the first national Juneteenth observance last year, brought a new wave of attention to the history behind this celebration: That on June 19, 1865, enslaved men and women … Continue reading
Your gun or your ganja: It’s illegal for marijuana users to own a gun
You can use marijuana in Illinois, and you can own a gun – but you can’t do both at the same time. “If you’re a normal, everyday Illinois resident who uses marijuana regularly, whether it’s lawfully or unlawfully, it doesn’t … Continue reading
The little-noticed court decision that changed homelessness in America
Is there a right to sleep outside? Five years ago, a federal court issued a crucial ruling. People experiencing homelessness, the Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals said, can’t be punished for sleeping outside on public property if there are no … Continue reading
The Anniversary of the Founding of Alcoholics Anonymous
88 years ago on June 10, 1935, Robert Holbrook Smith, a.k.a. ‘Dr. Bob,’ drank one bottle of beer to settle his nerves so he could perform an operation. It was the last drink he ever had. The date is celebrated … Continue reading
On This Memorial Day, 2023, Let’s Remember All Who Have Died For The USA and Freedom
On this Memorial Day, 2023, thank you Peter Sobacki, a 1967 graduate of Holy Cross High School, who inspired a 13 year old to attend Holy Cross High School. Peter Sobacki was killed in Vietnam in 1968. Peter was my … Continue reading
Bill to ban cat declawing introduced in Illinois State Capitol
A bill that would ban cat declawing and similar procedures has been introduced in the State Capitol. If the bill passes, anyone who violates it could pay $500 for the first violation, $1,000 for the second and $2,500 for the … Continue reading