Illinois Quick Hits: Chicago reports increased visitor spending
(The Center Square) – Chicago’s destination marketing organization says the city welcomed 56.8 million visitors in 2025 and generated a record-setting $21.5 billion in visitor spending.
The Illinois Hotel & Lodging Association said the data from Choose Chicago shows modest growth, but the city’s numbers lag pre-pandemic levels.
IHLS President & CEO Michael Jacobson said Chicago hotels face challenges in the form of higher operating costs, growing property taxes and overburdensome regulations.
INVESTMENT ADVISOR INDICTED
An Illinois investment advisor has been indicted on federal fraud charges for allegedly swindling clients in a Ponzi scheme.
Prosecutors say Paaris Kopsaftis, 42, of Charlotte, North Carolina, fraudulently solicited and obtained money from victims when he operated Illinois-based Blackwater Assets, Inc. from 2020 to 2025.
A status hearing is set for July 15.
MORE AMERICA 250 EVENTS ANNOUNCED
A new state government website and social media channels are dedicated to the 250th anniversary of the United States.
Illinois Secretary of State Alexi Giannoulias said the new America 250 web page lists a schedule of events taking place at the Capitol Complex in Springfield.
The Illinois State Archives launched social media channels to bring the state’s history to new audiences and engage residents in the commemoration.
WIZ KHALIFA TICKETS GO ON SALE FOR BOTH ILLINOIS STATE FAIRS
Wiz Khalifa is scheduled to take the stage at both the Illinois State Fair and the Du Quoin State Fair in August.
Tickets are scheduled to go on sale Saturday for the hip hop performer’s show at the Illinois State Fair Grandstand on Aug. 19. Tickets are already on sale via Ticketmaster for Wiz Khalifa’s performance at the Du Quoin State Fair on Aug. 29.
Mostly Sunny
Latest News Stories
Frankfort Man Arrested in Gas Station Robbery Found Hiding in McDonald’s Restroom
Mokena Library Board Approves 2025 Tax Levy and Seeks State Grant Funding
District 159 Approves Working Cash Abatement and New Superintendent Goals
Meeting Summary and Briefs: Will County Board Executive Committee for December 11, 2025
New Lenox Homeowner Granted Variance for 4,000-Square-Foot Accessory Space
County Expands Paratransit Services, Board Members Question Long-Term Funding
Meeting Summary and Briefs: Joliet Junior College Board for Dec. 10, 2025
District 210 Awards $24.4 Million Contract for Major HVAC Upgrades
Mokena 8th Graders Showcase App Designs and Green Architecture in STEM Spotlight
Mental Health Board Updates Committee on 2026 Grant Cycle and Funding Priorities
PZC Approves Homer Township Landscape Business Despite Neighbor Concerns; Adds Berm Condition
JJC Foundation Executive Director Retires Following $2.3 Million Estate Gift
