Bob Rakow

An eventful, challenging year. A year of firsts. Here's a look back at the news of 2022 in the Suburban Life coverage area.

Performers in Illinois told Shaw Local News Network that they think the recent rise in hostility toward drag shows in the suburbs has been driven by a small coordinated contingent who misrepresent drag and the nature of their shows.

A bullet was found in threatening letter sent to the Downers Grove Public Library.

The Downers Grove Public Library has canceled the upcoming drag queen bingo event due to threats made against the library.

The debate over plans for a drag queen bingo event at the Downers Grove Public Library continued Tuesday at the village council meeting.

Five students from Community High School District 99 are the recipients of the 2022 Illinois Library Association’s (ILA) Intellectual Freedom Award in recognition of their efforts to prevent the banning of a book at their schools.

Downers Grove police are investigating a report of a public indecency that took place on Thursday night.

The controversial book “Gender Queer” will remain on the library shelves at Downers Grove North and South high schools, the Community High School District 99 board decided Monday.

Community High School District 99 Superintendent Hank Thiele expressed frustration Monday over the responsibilities and expectations placed on students during the pandemic.

Masks will become optional in Community High School District 99 starting Feb. 28, a decision the school board reached Monday following a lengthy emergency meeting.

Masks will be optional in Downers Grove Grade School District 58 schools starting on Monday.

The controversy surrounding the decision at Benet Academy to hire a lacrosse coach who is in a same-sex marriage has resurfaced.

The Community High School District 99 School Board on Monday heard both side of the debate over banning a book that deals with gender identity.

Downers Grove commissioners delay a vote on bringing video gaming to town.

The Downers Grove Village Council's decision on video gaming won't make everyone happy.