What’s going on in the Chicago Southland? A few updates. 1. ICE agents are back in Chicago Heights, detained a man. 2. Heavy storms led to evacuations, roofs blown off In Hickory Hills, Palos. 4. Data center discussions in Robbins. 5. Schools divided on state cell phone ban.

I’m deeply humbled to recieve three first place awards from the Illinois Press Association this year! Awarded categories were news reporting, localized national story and feature writing. Proud to be a part of the hard working Tribune team! www.illinoispress.org/Portals/1/IP...

Southwest suburban school district faces controversy over multiyear attempt to add Arabic language curriculum. Story by @angieleventis.bsky.social and @addisonwright.bsky.social www.chicagotribune.com/2026/05/03/s...

I am so honored to recieve this national award alongside incredible Tribune journalists who continue pushing me to a higher standard of accountability journalism. So many amazing Tribune stories recognized! www.linkedin.com/posts/addiso...

New owners of MetroSouth Hospital to propose data center after six years of failed attempts to develop it. Blue Island leaders cautious, state rep. Bob Rita opposes it. www.chicagotribune.com/2026/04/24/m...

Unfounded bomb threat against Pope Leo’s brother comes days after social media fued between the Vatican and White House. Local police are investigating, and I’ll continue updating the story linked in the post below today.

Records obtained by the Southtown show an officer reported a man to DHS. That man was detained 13 days later. Some advocates say the officer violated the Illinois Trust Act. Others say this shows a loophole in the law. If you know how to reach the detained man, please let me know.

Sad news today. Dan Davis, man missing from 115 Bourbon Street since November, found dead. Report confirmed by police. www.chicagotribune.com/2026/03/10/d...

A long awaited trial between the State and two gun store owners begins tomorrow at 11 a.m. in the Will County courthouse, but the state dropped two charges today, on the trial’s eve. www.chicagotribune.com/2025/11/17/k...

Head Start groups sue Trump administration over efforts to 'dismantle' early childhood development program www.chicagotribune.com/2025/04/29/h... Thanks for the help @mollymorrow.bsky.social !

After 10+ years of negotiations and failed efforts to reduce plastic use, Illinois lawmakers are considering legislation to prohibit large retailers from offering single-use plastic bags and ban the use of foam containers in the state. From @addisonwright.bsky.social for @chicagotribune.com:

Phones in classrooms, what do you think? Enjoyed working with @mollymorrow.bsky.social on this.

This proposal revives a decades-old debate on cellphones in schools. While some worry about security, others see phones as a major source of distraction. @addisonwright.bsky.social and @mollymorrow.bsky.social have the story: www.chicagotribune.com/2025/03/17/g...