Chicago, IL ― (CUDN) Registered voters can cast a ballot before General Election Day which is April 1, 2025. They do not need to give a reason for wanting to vote early. With the help of The Cook County voters guide we will share this hopeful information that voters can share.
Mail Ballot applications for the February 25, 2025 Consolidated Primary Election had been accepted.
Mail Ballot applications for the April 1, 2025 Consolidated Election had been accepted as of January 1, 2025.
Any registered suburban Cook County voter with a driver’s license, state ID, or social security number on file may request a mail ballot. They can use an online or paper application.
Ballots must be postmarked by Election Day so they can be counted.
Registered suburban Cook County voters can vote in their home precinct on Election Day. To find your Election Day precinct, use your Your Voter Information Tool.
Visually Impaired and Print Disabled Voters
Visually impaired or print disabled voters may request an accessible mail ballot by calling 312.603.0976 or by emailing christine.tucker@cookcountyil.gov.
Encourage engagement: We Invite readers to share their thoughts or experiences in the comments to foster community conversation.
Jerry Butler Jr. was a renowned American soul singer-songwriter-is He was the original lead of the Impressions. He was celebrated for hits like “He Will Break Your Heart.” He later served as a Cook County Commissioner. Butler, who contributed to the Civil Rights Movement’s soundtrack, passed away, leaving behind a legacy of music and family.
CUDN By Amir AH Shakur(Facebook) –Feb 20, 2025, 9:00 PM CST |Updated 1 hour ago
Today Legendary Chicago Soulman Jerry “Iceman” Butler has passed away-leaving behind a outstanding
Chicago, IL(CUDN) Butler Jr. was an “Legendary” American soul singer-songwriter, producer, musician and politician from Chicago. He was the original lead singer of the R&B vocal group the Impressions. This group included The Legendary Curtis Mayfield. They were inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1991.
According to biographical materials, he learned how to write songs by reading Hit Parade magazine. It “printed out the sheet music of the hits performed on the show,” he wrote. “It helped us learn how not only to sight read but how to structure songs.”
Butler’s solo career had a string of hits, including the Top 10 successes “He Will Break Your Heart”, “Find Another Girl”, “I’m A-Telling You” (all written by fellow Impression Curtis Mayfield and featuring Mayfield as harmony vocal), the million selling “Only the Strong Survive”, “Moon River”, “Need To Belong” ( …
The Impressions explored the sounds of the Fifties and Sixties. They addressed both old and new social attitudes,” according to the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame. “Their music was the sound of the Civil Rights Movement.”
After “For Your Precious Love,” Mr. Butler decided to go solo. But soon he found “My career wasn’t going anywhere,” he said in his book. He and Mayfield reunited to craft Mr. Butler’s 1960 Vee-Jay hit, “He Will Break Your Heart.”
After supporting Harold Washington’s mayoral campaign, Butler won the election for Cook County Commissioner in 1985. He held this position for multiple years.
I personally met Mr. Butler. As an independent Chicago Producer, I recorded a cover of “For your Precious Love.” He was a gracious and thoughtful man! I was so amazed by his humbleness. -Amir AH Shakur, Editor Chicago Urban Daily.
ResT IN PEACE Jerry BUtler 1939-2025
Mr. Butler’s wife Annette Butler, who also was a singer, died in 2019. Survivors include their sons Anthony and Randy, four grandchildren and a great-grandchild. Funeral arrangements are pending. (aahs)
A Historical Look at the Family Home of the Infamous Gangster Al Capone’s Chicago Home provides insight into his intriguing legacy. He is one of America’s most notorious figures. This residence not only reflects Capone’s extravagant lifestyle but also serves as a testament to the dramatic era of Prohibition that defined his criminal empire.
CUDN By Amir AH Shakur(Facebook) –Feb 20, 2025, 9:00 PM CST |Updated 1 hour ago
Chicago, IL(CUDN) Many locals are aware of a Piece of Chicago History. It is on the South Side. This was Gangster Al Capone’s Primary Family Residence in Chicago. He stayed here when he was not at the Lexington Hotel in Downtown Chicago. The historical property records show that was on 7244 South Prairie Avenue Chicago, IL.
Al Capone was a “notorious” Chicago gangster. For those who are unaware, he ran a criminal empire in Chicago during the 1920s. His activities included bootlegging, gambling, prostitution, and murder.
Al Capone and family moved there on August 8,1923. At the time, -The ownership was under Mae and Theresa Capone. Frank Capone’s funeral was held here (pictured, below). Also, Al’s Mother Theresa Capone passed away in this house in 1952.
HisTORICAL PhOTOS OF THE PROPERTY
Photo Credit: Chicago Historical Society-Frank Capone’s Funeral at the residence. Photo Credit: **Unknown** Capone’s Men outside the residence on guard. Circua 1924
On November 26,1947, the ownership was transferred to Mafalda Maritote. (Al’s sister). After Theresa’s death, she sold the house on January 15,1953, to William B. Petty. It has changed hands since that period but at this time the property not for sale.
The house was built around the early part of the 1900’s. Every year, we have noted a logistical change in addresses. This observation suggests the Capone home would have been built around 1905-1910. Historical Record Ledgers found in the City of Chicago archives are confusing due to early Procedures. Still, the writing is semi-legible.
Photo Credit: Chicago Urban Daily News
The View of location in Chicago telephone directory in November of 1923 (pictured below). Al had moved in to the first floor. He later moved upstairs because he visited the house less often. This was due to business activity(or lack of it). Most of Al’s time was spent at Lexington Hotel. By 1928, Al had moved and was often living in Miami at 93 Palm Isle. and his Mother Theresa, Mafalda and others moved downstairs.
The two-flat (six bedroom) in the Park Manor neighborhood on Chicago’s South Side a few years ago listed for $109,000. –but again it is now off the market. While at the time of writing we are not sure about the Historical (landmark) Status of this property. In any case this home is a part of Chicago History. (aahs)
Harvey, IL (CUDN) -is a small City in Cook County, Illinois, United States. The population was 20,324 at the 2020 census. According to statistics -The overall racial makeup of the city is 63.33% African American, 5.87% White, 2.50% Asian, 0.82% Native American. The median income for a household in the city was $32,635. The median income for a family is at $45,729.
For sometime current Mayor Christopher Clark has been the topic of contention. Residents and activists have legitimate and ongoing claims. For along time Harvey has faced low income poverty levels and a high amount of boarded and abandoned homes. There is a lack of legitimate business within the city. At present, the context of the political landscape of Harvey is growing more contentious daily. For example; there are ongoing allegations that Mayor Clark has routinely harassed local residents. He has imposed unheard of licensing requirements on businesses. according to some observers on the ground. He (Clark) has gone to the point of arresting locals who speak out at meetings. This move is fostering a high amount of opposition from the public.
—Alderwoman Colby Chapman (pictured, below) has been a resounding voice in the fight for change in the City of Harvey. Chapman has served as 2nd Ward alderwoman for over two years. For the moment, that voice is very much needed. On this evening, her report-was directed at Mayor and Corporate Council-included many questions (some examples given but not in order).
Photo: Facebook Chapman for Harvey
“When will the six police be addressed? -What is the plan for bringing up abandoned homes? -When will another retention pond be built? We need action and accountability.” These were some of her(Colby’s) legitimate questions during the Monday night meeting. Colby has routinely been a outspoken (almost standalone) voice at city hall.
She has expressed the same tone of frustration that many locals are upset about. All due to a perceived lack of accountability that routinely plague Mayor Clark and The Harvey Officials administration from locals. For the record -She (Colby) said, she was also falsely arrested last August. She was accused of trying to attack the city administrator. Alderman Chapman states that this allegation was politically motivated.
Protest Friday February 10, Meeting
On this Friday (February 10, 2025), multiple protesters returned to the Harvey City Hall for the routine weekly meeting. They protested for a change to the mayor’s alleged “harassment” of speakers at the meetings. For example, harsh Harvey Ordinances have been established. These ordinances demand that observers and media during city public meetings stay in a “small” quarantined area. This small “quarantined,” area is for (cellphone) recording of public meetings. If anyone outside of the small “quarantine area” pulls out a cellphone to record, the police will eject them from the public meeting. The same applies to any recording device. The ejection will be by police escort. If anyone speaks out of terms, the police will issue costly fines. Continued disruption can lead to an arrest for a Disorderly Conduct (misdemeanor) charge. This “harsh” charge carries a potential $500 fine.
Photo: Harvey Historical Society Facebook Photo: Harvey Historical Society Facebook
As noted by the picture, The night ended with the protest demonstration. Multiple activists, with mouths taped closed by black utility tape, held up various black signs. These signs seem to send a resounding tone expressing overall displeasure in opposition with the Clark Administration’s tactics. (pictures below)
_I as a representative of Freedom First International and journalist. I also spoke after sending a “Cease and Desist” Letter (last week). This happened after a Press Conference with the small group. They were met by a squadron of Harvey Police officers. The officers stood in front of The Harvey City Hall and blocked the entrance.-
“We are asking for you to change your path (because you continue to stand outside of our interest and outside public interests”-Citizens who speak in public meetings -Should not be arrested, (it is unreasonable) _Citizens who speak should not be publicity fined” -at this point we don’t believe that you will change course.” -Amir A.H. Shakur
Shelby Shell, an activist associated with a group called INA, worked alongside Chicago Activist Jedidiah Brown gave comments. She alleged that during her time on the ground, she talked with citizens of Harvey. She stated her organization (with Mayor Clark in mind) “has observed a leader who seeks to intimidate and violate the rights of your constituents.” -“Imposing harsh and unlawful penalties for speaking or clapping is not only absurd-It is also an affront to democratic values.”
About The Public Outcry in Harvey
Local Activist Ryan Roman Sinwelski Community Leader with the Harvey Historical Society, a community advocacy and support group, said, “he is glad about the public attention coming to Harvey. We need that support! -Any support that would help with change is welcome.” Sinwelski has also faced heavy-handed tactics from the Harvey Police. This occurred after he was ejected from a meeting at the demand of Mayor Clark last fall.
Photo: I am Harvey Facebook
For the record-Mayor Clark has resigned from a potential opportunity. Many believe growing public pressure was the reason Clark decided not to run for Thornton Township Supervisor. In a public letter, Clark while discussing Harvey -explains that there are “major problems.” He states the public city needs much attention-he (Clark) wants to focus on Harvey. This position is presently held by the equally controversial Dolton Mayor Tiffany Henyard. Despite this, Mayor Clark seems unwavering in his efforts to run the City of Harvey as he pleases. At the end of the meeting, Mayor Clark elaborated, “I feel like I’m Barack Obama-It’s like being called out on a birth certificate. It’s Trump Behavior-It tries to distract us from the things that we are trying to do, with this Nonsense and Foolishness.” (aahs)
Washington, DC (CUDN) -The Trump administration has just filed suit against the State of Illinois, Cook County, and the City of Chicago. They argue that these sanctuary laws “interfere” with Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s ability to arrest and deport illegal migrants. Justice Department officials told The News reporters that this is the first of many such lawsuits to come.
The Justice Department urged the court to step in. It argued that state and local laws in Illinois and Chicago prohibit the sharing of certain information with federal authorities. These laws make the apprehension of undocumented migrants in those jurisdictions more difficult. The lawsuit highlights several state and local laws. The Justice Department identifies these laws as inhibitors to the federal government’s ability to enforce US immigration law.
Newly sworn-in US Attorney General Pam Bondi speaks in the Oval Office at the White House on February 5, in Washington, DC. Andrew Harnik/Getty ImagesCredit Image: )
Newly installed US Attorney General Pam Bondi (pictured, above) gave orders to the DOJ. She directed them to investigate jurisdictions that are impeding law enforcement. She emphasized that they be prosecuted when necessary.
In Pennsylvania, at least two major cities have enacted sanctuary policies. Meanwhile, leaders in a third city have signaled opposition to working with federal immigration authorities.
“We’ve identified Illinois, the city of Chicago, and Cook County. They all have laws and ordinances on the books that impede federal immigration enforcement. In particular, these include the Chicago Welcoming ordinance and the Illinois Trust Act,” a DOJ official said.
The lawsuit arises during a broader debate about immigration policy in the United States. The Trump administration takes a hardliner stance on enforcement. Chicago has long been a “sanctuary city,” with policies in place to limit cooperation with federal immigration authorities. This recent move follows several Controversial Executive Orders Signed by Trump. Most of these Trump “executive orders” have a severe right wing agenda. They (Trump Policies) have left most of the General population of the US Public in an uproar. More Details to come as the Story Breaks (glg)
DOLTON,IL ― Mayor Tiffany Heynard, who is dubbed as America’s ‘worst mayor’, has been involved in a tumultuous relationship and run that has led many concerned citizens and activists to demand her dismissal. For those who are unaware, various residents, employees, and business owners have alleged that Henyard was using her position to retaliate against perceived political opposition, including alleged use by Henyard of the village police force to harass businesses whose owners had not supported her and extorted campaign contributions from business owners.
She (Henyard) has also been accused of firing several village employees for political reasons. Besides mismanagement, large levels of public funds which had gone missing or unaccounted for. Other issues include extravagant trips to Las Vegas, New York City and other places to some in the circles consider unreasonable and unnecessary.
Thornton Township Salary, and decrease for future supervisors According to Thornton Township records, Henyard (pictured, below) coincidentally has a dual responsibility. Her annual salary as supervisor is $224,000. This amount has been equal to her predecessor’s salary since 2017.
In December 2023, at Henyard’s urging, the township adopted a resolution. This will result in a future 90% decrease to the supervisor’s salary. This decrease will only take effect for the next supervisor. The supervisor’s salary will remain the same as long as Henyard’s tenure continues. Although Henyard will retain a salary of $224,000 as long as she remains in office, any successor will be paid $22,400 per year for the same position. Salary decreases were also approved for future township trustees. Current incumbents will keep their salaries as long as they continue to hold office.
(Credit Image: Henyard Facebook
Electoral CHALLENGES IN Dolton and Thornton Township
Henyard faces a challenge in her bid for a second term as Dolton’s mayor, and it appears her only option to secure a full term as Thornton Township Supervisor would be through a write-in campaign after not being slated for the Feb. 25 primary.
On December 3, 2025, many observed a somewhat controversial public meeting. Current appointed Supervisor Tiffany Henyard was shouted down by the gymnasium full of residents. They even started singing “na, na, nana, na, na, nana, hey hey hey, goodbye.” They sang this to her while she attempted to speak. a signal that Henyard’s “reign of terror” may soon be over in Thornton Township.
The named replacement and lead candidate is the slate headed by Napoleon Harris. Democrats nominated him for Supervisor to be on the ballot for township elected positions in the spring 2025 election.
What IS The Future PATH FORWARD for Thornton Township AND DOLTON
In less than three weeks, the Thornton Township Elections will be held. This will occur within the same time frame during the last week of February. The Dolton Challenge to Mayor Tiffany Henyard will involve a group led by Dolton Mayor Pro Tem Jason House. Coincidentally-This is also a group of current Trustees who were once loyalist to Tiffany Henyard.
According to information from the Lansing Journal taken from the campaign website, House is a lifelong resident of Dolton. He has eight years of service as a Village Trustee. The release states that his decision to run for Mayor is inspired by a passion for progress. He envisions a brighter future for all Dolton residents.
Running with House are current trustees Kiana Belcher and Brittney Norwood and former trustee Edward Steave. Completing the slate is current Village Clerk Alison Key.
(Credit Image: Clean House 2025 Website)
What ARE THE SAFEGUARDS to PREVENT Future CORRUPTION IN Thornton Township and Dolton?
I, along with many others, believe the Village of Dolton will elect new and motivated leadership. But, They will have to make several other significant changes. These changes will make it more difficult for the next person or group in the Office who considers violating the public trust.
Multiple factors for Dolton Officials to combat the future political corruption, should include:
A System to Detect and Oppose Lack of Transparency and Accountability: Government processes become opaque when they lack transparency. Corruption thrives when officials are not held responsible for their actions.
Support and encourage Citizenship by advancing Independent Civil Institutions and Organizations. The rule of law becomes weak and institutions become ineffective when corrupt officials can act with impunity. Accountable are needed to Hold The Officials from Embezzlement. (AHOE)
Greed and Self-Interest: The desire for personal gain can motivate individuals to engage in corrupt activities. Please continue to seek and instill accounting structures-without those resources in place corruption can and may largely continue.
Political Culture: In some societies, corruption is normalized or even tolerated, making it difficult to combat.
One positive is that the flurry of social media has opened people’s eyes. It revealed exactly what Henyard and her team have done. It also showed how devastating her tenure has been to the city. (glg)
