by the numbers

As we've talked about before, 2020 was a pretty crappy year to be a human being, but it was a great year to be a dog or cat. Your humans have been around a lot more than they usually are because of lockdowns and closings, you're getting constant attention, treats, etc.

If you've thought that there has been a lot more speeding and reckless driving since the pandemic began last March, you're absolutely right. Illinois traffic deaths during this COVID-19 nightmare have been spiking.

When recreational marijuana sales became legal in Illinois last January, there were many thoughts and projections centered around the amount of money the new pot laws would bring into Illinois' coffers. In particular, many of us wondered about tax money generated by weed sales.

Illinoisans have known for years that Chicago has an over-supply of vermin and pests, although the majority of us probably thought most of them were elected officials.

Time flies when you're vaccinating, it seems. It was a bit less than a month ago when COVID-19 vaccinations began here in Winnebago County. Now, with 10,000-plus healthcare workers having received their first dose in "Phase 1A", the plan to expand vaccinations outward is getting close.

We've talked before about how the pandemic of 2020 (and continuing on into 2021) has been pretty awful for humans, but it's been probably the best time ever for the family pets.

I just did a quick survey around the offices here at the radio ranch about Illinois fast food restaurants. There was just one question: Which fast food joint has the most Illinois locations?

We've been hearing about and seeing Illinois' "outbound migration" troubles for at least a decade now, and a new study shows the problem is on the increase.

Rockford's Nicholas Conservatory and Gardens has (once again this year) provided a much-needed antidote to our current locked-down, stay at home mentality with another stunning lights display.

In spite of (or maybe because of) warnings galore to skip the traveling over Thanksgiving, lots of Illinoisans still hit the road. Christmastime may be a different story.