Today is former First Lady Michelle Obama’s birthday. She was born Michelle Robinson on January 17, 1964 in Chicago and grew up in a bungalow in the city’s Southside. As a child, she enjoyed reading and playing games with family members, including her older brother, Craig. The two were so close they were frequently confused for twins.

Did you know? Bagels have a long history that travels from the Jewish families of Poland in the 1600s to today’s breakfast menu.

Bagels made their way to the U.S. in the 1800s when a large Polish-Jewish population immigrated to America. The famous breakfast food thrived in New York City immediately, but it wasn’t until the mid-20th century that bagels became a favorite nationwide.

Ice cream sundaes are a staple of the American dessert diet. What you may not know, is that they have been around for 124 years. Strangely, their origin is somewhat of a mystery. However, their birthplace can be narrowed down to three states: New York, Wisconsin, or Illinois.

The Christmas holiday is here. This traditionally Christian holiday marks the occasion of the birth of Jesus Christ.

While 2020 was certainly not what anyone expected, Illinois still had much to celebrate. Throughout this tough year, neighbors came together to provide for their communities and exemplify what it means to be an Illinoisan. Here are some of our top stories of 2020: