Local Homelessness Policy: DeKalb City Council tabled a proposed “public camping” ordinance after residents called it “cruel and unjust,” arguing it would unfairly target people experiencing homelessness. EV Travel Costs: EVIQO shared new guidance on the real cost of charging an EV at home in 2026, stressing that home charging can be far cheaper per mile than gas—especially after the federal charger credit expired. Family-Friendly Mentoring: Heart of Illinois Big Brothers Big Sisters launched a “60 Bigs in 60 Days” campaign to recruit mentors for more than 100 waiting children across the Peoria region. Illinois Farming Legacy: University of Illinois Extension and Illinois Farm Bureau announced “Focus on the Future: Sustaining Farm,” a Aug. 25 program for farmland owners on succession, stewardship, and Farm Bill impacts. Chicago Tourism & Attractions: A CityPASS money-saver guide highlights bundled admission options for Chicago’s top sights like Shedd Aquarium and Skydeck Chicago. Travel Disruption Watch: Reports on TSA staffing and checkpoint disruptions tied to a 2026 funding lapse continue to matter for summer travel planning. Wildlife Rescue: NOAA authorized an emergency rescue to move remaining beluga whales from Canada’s closed Marineland to accredited U.S. facilities, including Shedd Aquarium in Chicago. Route 66 Nostalgia: A Route 66 centennial trip story spotlights a Chicago-to-California drive timed to the highway’s anniversary.