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.
Partly Sunny then Chance Showers And Thunderstorms
Latest News Stories
County Sales Tax Revenues Strong, Cannabis Funds Dispersed to Community Programs
Illinois sports wagers decline after implementation of new tax
Will County Committee Grants Extensions for Crete, Washington Township Solar Projects
Congress used government funding bill to ‘erase’ $3.4 trillion in deficits
Illinois patient relies on ACA tax credits, experts warn they drive higher premiums
Trump rolls back tariffs on over 200 foods in sharp reversal
Trump says $2,000 tariff rebate checks won’t come before Christmas
Chicago mayor threatens layoffs, property tax hikes if council rejects head tax
Goldwater Institute sues Arizona attorney general for records
Illinois quick hits: Four officers injured during ICE protest
California asks court to end federalization of National Guard
ICE, Florida officers arrest 230, including 150 sex offenders
