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Taking care of your Loved One Is What We Do BEST!

It's no secret, most of us would like to stay in our own home as we age. Yet, sometimes our loved ones just need a little extra help to remain comfortable at home. That's where Always Best Care can help....we are dedicated to exceeding expectations....always.

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Home Care In Chicago, IL

Home Care Chicago, IL

They say that your golden years are the best years of your life. For most older Americans, that's how it should be - a time to relax, reflect, and live life in a familiar place. After all, senior citizens in the U.S. have worked tirelessly to build a better economy, serve their communities, and raise families.

However, as seniors grow older, completing daily tasks like showering and enjoying activities such as visiting Tribune Tower in Chicago, IL gets harder without someone by their side. Unfortunately, many older Americans aren't able to rely on their adult children for help. The reality in today's world is that family members do not have the skills or time to dedicate to caring for their parents. That's where Always Best Care Senior Services comes in.

Our in-home care services are for people who prefer to stay at home as they grow older but need ongoing care that family or friends cannot provide. More and more older adults prefer to live far away from long-term, institutionalized facilities and closer to the place where they feel most comfortable - their home. Home care in Chicago, IL is a safe, effective way to give your loved ones the care they need when they need it the most.

 In-Home Care Chicago, IL

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The Always Best Care Difference

Since 1996, Always Best Care has provided non-medical in-home care for seniors to help them maintain a healthy lifestyle as they get older. We are proud to have helped more than 25,000 seniors maintain higher levels of dignity and respect. We focus on providing seniors with the highest level of in-home care available so that they may live happily and independently.

Unlike some senior care companies, we genuinely want to be included in our clients' lives. We believe that personalized care is always the better option over a "one size fits all" approach. To make sure our senior clients receive the best care possible, we pair them with compassionate caregivers who understand their unique needs. That way, they may provide care accordingly without compromising their wellbeing.

The Always Best Care difference lies in life's little moments - where compassionate care and trustworthy experience come together to help seniors live a fruitful, healthy life. Whether you are an aging adult that can't quite keep up with life's daily tasks or the child of a senior who needs regular in-home services, Always Best Care is here to help.

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TESTIMONIALS

“Professional staff, excellent service and personal care. I will recommend you.”

Luis J.
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TESTIMONIALS

“The staff was very helpful and welcoming. Highly recommended.”

Tiana K.
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TESTIMONIALS

“Very helpful and professional staff, providing us the right guidance. We are so grateful to the staff.”

Ljiljana L.
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TESTIMONIALS

“A group of true professionals who are passionate about providing the best care & services. Highly recommend.”

Eiad J.
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“Very Supportive, wonderful place and very friendly staff!”

Mirjana P.
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TESTIMONIALS

“I cannot express enough how grateful I am for the care and attention at Always Best Care Chicago. From the moment we arrived, the staff was welcoming, compassionate, and professional. The team is always available to answer questions and provide updates. Highly recommend this place to anyone in need of senior care!”

Esra A.
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TESTIMONIALS

“great service and care , will recommend aiman and his team to everyone i know !”

Shaizan M.
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TESTIMONIALS

“Well managed and would recommend to family and friends!!”

Adnan A.
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TESTIMONIALS

“Took care of my family member at a time when we needed it most. Will be recommending to all my friends and family”

Munther S.
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TESTIMONIALS

“They did a wonderful job taking care of my grandma. Love them highly recommend”

samer A.
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TESTIMONIALS

“Reached out to Jeff for assistance with a family member and he was very informative and helpful. Thank you!”

Tarik A.
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TESTIMONIALS

“Great service run by great people. Always Best is quite literally Always Best when it comes to home care”

Ali S.
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TESTIMONIALS

“Always Best Care were true professionals and very responsive to any questions that we had. Would recommend!”

Ahmad S.
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TESTIMONIALS

“Always Best Care provides exceptional care with compassion and professionalism, ensuring elders get the support they need to live comfortably at home. Highly recommend!”

Nowruss M.
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TESTIMONIALS

“The staff here really go above and beyond for their seniors, they’re always super responsive to our needs and have provided tremendous support to my family members! Highly recommend!”

Omar E.
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TESTIMONIALS

“Always Best is amazing! Highly recommend their services!!”

Ashar Q.
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TESTIMONIALS

“Always Best Care provides exceptional care with compassion and professionalism, ensuring elders get the support they need to live comfortably at home. Highly recommend!”

ChicagoGuyEats
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TESTIMONIALS

“Ali Asmi provided us with clear expectations and went above and beyond them to ensure my Dad's comfort. He cares about his clients and the safety of his employees.”

dorene R.
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TESTIMONIALS

“They were an absolute lifesaver! I needed ongoing care for my dad at the last minute as he was released from rehab. They were extremely knowledgeable, and quick to respond to our needs. Ali spoke to my dad and took a genuine interest in what he wanted and made him feel at ease throughout the process. Very satisfied and highly recommend. The balance tracking system was a real fun activity for my dad.”

Nilton P.
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TESTIMONIALS

“We are very pleased with our care; our overall experience has been fantastic”

Wendy B.

What is Non-Medical Senior Care in Chicago, IL?

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Home is where the heart is. While that saying can sound a tad cliche, it is especially true for many seniors living in America. When given a choice, older adults most often prefer to grow older at home. An AARP study found that three out of four adults over the age of 50 want to stay in their homes and communities as they age.

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When you begin to think about why, it makes sense. Home offers a sense of security, comfort, and familiarity.

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The truth is, as we age, we begin to rely on others for help. When a family is too busy or lives too far away to fulfill this role, in-home senior care is often the best solution. Home care services allow seniors to enjoy personal independence while also receiving trustworthy assistance from a trained caregiver.

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At Always Best Care, we offer a comprehensive range of home care services to help seniors stay healthy while they get the help they need to remain independent. As your senior loved one gets older, giving them the gift of senior care is one of the best ways to show your love, even if you live far away.

 Senior Care Chicago, IL

Types of Elderly Care in Chicago, IL

To give our senior clients the best care possible, we offer a full spectrum of in-home care services:

Personal Care

Personal Care Services

If your senior loved one has specific care needs, our personal care services are a great choice to consider. Personal care includes the standard caregiving duties associated with companion care and includes help with tasks such as dressing and grooming. Personal care can also help individuals with chronic conditions like diabetes.

Common personal care services include assistance with:

  • Eating
  • Mobility Issues
  • Incontinence
  • Bathing
  • Dressing
  • Grooming

Respite Care Chicago, IL
Home Helper

Home Helper Services

Sometimes, seniors need helpful reminders to maintain a high quality of life at home. If you or your senior has trouble with everyday tasks like cooking, our home helper services will be very beneficial.

Common home helper care services include assistance with:

  • Medication Reminders
  • Meal Preparation
  • Pet Care
  • Prescription Refills
  • Morning Wake-Up
  • Walking
  • Reading
 Caregivers Chicago, IL
Companionship Services

Companionship Services

Using this kind of care is a fantastic way to make life easier for you or your senior loved one. At Always Best Care, our talented caregivers often fill the role of a companion for seniors. That way, older adults can enjoy their favorite local activities, such as visiting Grant Park in Chicago, IL with friends while also receiving the care they need daily or weekly.

Common companionship services include:

  • Grocery Shopping
  • Transportation to Appointments
  • Nutritional Assistance
  • Conversation
  • Planning Outings
  • Completing Errands
  • Transportation to Community
  • Events and Social Outings
Home Care Chicago, IL
Respite Care

Respite Care Services

According to AARP, more than 53 million adults living in the U.S. provide care to someone over 50 years old. Unfortunately, these caregivers experience stress, exhaustion, and even depression. Our respite care services help family caregivers address urgent obligations, spend time with their children, and enjoy nearby activities. Perhaps more importantly, respite care gives family members time to recharge and regroup. Taking personal time to de-stress reduces the risk of caregiver burnout. So, if you've always wanted to eat at the local Alinea or visit CharnleyPersky House Museum, don't feel bad. Doing so is great for both you and your loved one.

At the end of the day, our goal is to become a valuable part of your senior's daily routine. That way, we may help give them the highest quality of life possible. We know that staying at home is important for your loved one, and we are here to help make sure that is possible.

If you have been on the fence about non-medical home care, there has never been a better time than now to give your senior the care, assistance, and companionship they deserve.

 In-Home Care Chicago, IL

Benefits of Home Care in Chicago, IL

Always Best Care in-home services are for older adults who prefer to stay at home but need ongoing care that friends and family cannot provide. In-home care is a safe, effective way for seniors to age gracefully in a familiar place and live independent, non-institutionalized lives. The benefits of non-medical home care are numerous. Here are just a few reasons to consider senior care services from Always Best Care:

Always Best Care offers a full array of care options for patients at all levels of health. With our trusted elderly care services, your loved one will receive the level of care necessary for them to enjoy the highest possible quality of life.

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Aging in Place: The Preferred Choice for Most Seniors

While it's true that some seniors have complicated medical needs that prevent them from staying at home, aging in place is often the best arrangement for seniors and their families. With a trusted caregiver, seniors have the opportunity to live with a sense of dignity and do so as they see fit - something that is unavailable to many older people today.

In-home care makes it possible for millions of seniors to age in place every year. Rather than moving to a strange nursing home, seniors have the chance to stay at home where they feel the happiest and most comfortable.

Here are just a few of the reasons why older men and women prefer to age at home:

How much does a senior's home truly mean to them?

A study published by the American Society on Aging found that more than half of seniors say their home's emotional value means more than how much their home is worth in monetary value. It stands to reason, then, that a senior's home is where they want to grow old.

With the help of elderly care in Chicago, IL, seniors don't have to age in a sterilized care facility. Instead, they can age gracefully in the place they want to be most: their home. In contrast, seniors who move to a long-term care facility must adapt to new environments, new people, and new systems that the facility implements. At this stage in life, this kind of drastic change can be more harmful than helpful.

Institutional care facilities like nursing homes often put large groups of people together to live in one location. On any given day, dozens of staff members and caregivers run in and out of these facilities. Being around so many new people in a relatively small living environment can be dangerous for a seniors' health and wellbeing. When you consider that thousands of seniors passed away in nursing homes during the COVID-19 pandemic, opting for in-home care is often a safer, healthier choice for seniors.

Aging in place has been shown to improve seniors' quality of life, which helps boost physical health and also helps insulate them from viral and bacterial risks found in elderly living facilities.

For many seniors, the ability to live independently with assistance from a caregiver is a priceless option. With in-home care, seniors experience a higher level of independence and freedom - much more so than in other settings like a nursing home. When a senior has the chance to age in place, they get to live life on their own terms, inside the house that they helped make into a home. More independence means more control over their personal lives, too, which leads to increased levels of fulfillment, happiness, and personal gratification. Over time, these positive feelings can manifest into a healthier, longer life.

More independence, a healthier life, and increased comfort are only a few benefits of aging in place. You have to take into consideration the role of cost and convenience. Simply put, it's usually easier and more affordable to help seniors age in place than it is to move them into an institutional care facility. According to the US Department of Housing and Urban Development, seniors who age in the comfort of their homes can save thousands of dollars per month.

In-home care services from Always Best Care, for instance, are often less expensive than long-term solutions, which can cost upwards of six figures per year. To make matters worse, many residential care facilities are reluctant to accept long-term care insurance and other types of payment assistance.

With Always Best Care's home care services, seniors and their families have a greater level of control over their care plans. In-home care gives seniors the chance to form a bond with a trusted caregiver and also receive unmatched care that is catered to their needs. In long-term care facilities, seniors and their loved ones have much less control over their care plan and have less of a say in who provides their care.

 Elderly Care Chicago, IL

Affordable Care

In-home care is a valuable resource that empowers seniors to age in place on their own terms. However, a big concern for many families and their loved ones is how much in-home care costs. If you're worried that in-home care is too expensive, you may be pleasantly surprised to learn that it is one of the most affordable senior care arrangements available.

Typically, hiring an Always Best Care in-home caregiver for a few hours a week is more affordable than sending your loved one to a long-term care facility. This is true even for seniors with more complex care needs.

At Always Best Care, we will work closely with you and your family to develop a Care Plan that not only meets your care needs, but your budget requirements, too. Once we discover the level of care that you or your senior need, we develop an in-home care plan that you can afford.

In addition to our flexible care options, families should also consider the following resources to help offset potential home care costs:

If your loved one qualifies, Medicaid may help reduce in-home care costs. Review your IL's Medicaid program laws and benefits, and make sure your senior's financial and medical needs meet Medicaid eligibility requirements.
Attendance and aid benefits through military service can cover a portion of the costs associated with in-home care for veterans and their spouses.
Many senior care services like in-home care are included in long-term care insurance options. Research different long-term care solutions to find a plan that provides coverage for senior care.
Home care can be included as part of a senior's private insurance plan. Read over your loved one's insurance policy carefully or speak with their insurance provider to determine if in-home care is covered.
Depending on the life insurance plan, you may be able to apply your policy toward long-term care. You may be able to use long-term-care coverage to help pay for in-home elderly care.
 Senior Care Chicago, IL

Compassionate Care. Trusted Caregivers.

When you or your senior loved one needs assistance managing daily tasks at home, finding a qualified caregiver can be challenging. It takes a special kind of person to provide reliable care for your senior loved one. However, a caregiver's role involves more than meal preparation and medication reminders. Many seniors rely on their caregivers for companionship, too.

Our companion care services give seniors the chance to socialize in a safe environment and engage in activities at home. These important efforts boost morale and provide much-needed relief from repetitive daily routines. A one-on-one, engaging conversation can sharpen seniors' minds and give them something in which to be excited.

At Always Best Care, we only hire care providers that we would trust to care for our own loved ones. Our senior caregivers in Chicago, IL understand how important it is to listen and communicate with their seniors. A seemingly small interaction, like a short hug goodbye, can make a major difference in a senior's day. Instead of battling against feelings of isolation, seniors begin to look forward to seeing their caregiver each week.

Understanding the nuances of senior care is just one of the reasons why our care providers are so great at their job.

Unlike some senior care companies, our caregivers must undergo extensive training before they work for Always Best Care. In addition, our caregivers receive ongoing training throughout the year. This training ensures that their standard of care matches up to the high standards we've come to expect. During this training, they will brush up on their communication skills, safety awareness, and symptom spotting. That way, your loved one receives the highest level of non-medical home care from day one.

Assisted Living Referral Services

While it's true that many seniors prefer to age at home, sometimes in-home care isn't the best fit. For those seniors and their families, choosing an assisted living facility makes more sense. Unfortunately, finding the optimal care facility is easier said than done in today's day and age. That's when Always Best Care's assisted living referral services begin to make a lot of sense.

Assisted living is a form of housing intended for seniors who require varying degrees of medical and personal attention. Accommodations may include single rooms, apartments, or shared living arrangements. Assisted living communities are typically designed to resemble a home-like environment and are physically constructed to encourage the independence of residents.


Respite Care Chicago, IL

At assisted living communities, seniors receive help with daily activities such as bathing, dressing, and eating. They may also benefit from coordination of services with outside healthcare providers, and monitoring of resident activities to ensure their health, safety, and well-being. Caregivers who work at assisted living communities can also provide medication administration and personal care services for older adults.

Other services offered within assisted living communities can include some or all of the following:

  • Housekeeping
  • Laundry
  • Recreational Activities
  • Social Outings
  • Emergency Medical Response
  • Medication Monitoring
  • Family Visitation
  • Personal Care
 Caregivers Chicago, IL

At Always Best Care, our representatives can match your senior's emotional, physical, and financial needs with viable assisted living communities nearby. Results are based on comparative data, so you can select the best choice for you or your loved one.

Always Best Care works closely with local senior living communities to gain valuable knowledge that we then use to help seniors and their loved ones make informed decisions. This information can include basic care and rent, resident availability, and services provided. Because Always Best Care is compensated by these communities, we provide senior living referral services at no extra cost to you.

Some of the most popular assisted living communities to consider in our area include the following:

  • Brookdale Lake Shore Drive
  • Montclare Supportive Living Community
  • Belmont Village Senior Living Lincoln Park
  • Grand Regency of South Shore formerly Coles SLF Supportive Living Senior Housing
  • Eden Supportive Living Chicago North
  • Grand Regency of Jackson Park Supportive Living
Home Care Chicago, IL

For many seniors, moving into a senior living community revolves around how and when they want to make a transition to more involved care. Some seniors are more proactive about transitioning to independent living. Others choose to remain home until their care needs or other requirements are satisfied. Remember - our staff is here to help. Contact our office today to learn more about assisted living communities and how we can find a facility that exceeds your expectations.

 In-Home Care Chicago, IL

Taking the First Step with Always Best Care

The first step in getting quality in-home care starts with a personal consultation with an experienced Always Best Care Care Coordinator. This initial consultation is crucial for our team to learn more about you or your elderly loved one to discover the level of care required. Topics of this consultation typically include:

A discussion of your needs and how our trained caregivers can offer assistance in the most effective way

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A draft of your care plan, which includes highly detailed notes and a framework for the care that you or your senior will receive

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Discuss payment options and help coordinate billing with your insurance provider

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Our caregivers are trained to spot changes that clients exhibit, like mental and physical decline. As your trusted senior care company, we will constantly assess and update your Care Plan to meet any new emotional, intellectual, physical, and emotional needs.

If you have never considered in-home care before, we understand that you and your family may have concerns about your Care Plan and its Care Coordinator. To help give you peace of mind, know that every team member and caregiver must undergo comprehensive training before being assigned to a Care Plan.

At the end of the day, we only hire the best of the best at Always Best Care. Whether you need home care in Chicago, IL 24-hours a day or only need a respite for a couple of hours, we are here to serve you.

When you're ready, we encourage you to contact your local Always Best Care representative to set up a Care Consultation. Our Care Coordinators would be happy to meet with you in person to get to know you better, discuss your needs, and help put together a personalized Care Plan specific to your needs.

 Elderly Care Chicago, IL

Latest News in Chicago, IL

Failed Bank Information for Metropolitan Capital Bank & Trust, Chicago, IL

On Friday, January 30, 2026, Metropolitan Capital Bank & Trust was closed by the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation. The Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) was named Receiver. No advance notice is given to the public when a financial institution is closed. First Independence Bank, Detroit, MI assumed substantially all the deposit accounts and substantially all the assets. All shares of stock were owned by the holding company, which was not involved in this transaction.January 30, 2026 Official P...

On Friday, January 30, 2026, Metropolitan Capital Bank & Trust was closed by the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation. The Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) was named Receiver. No advance notice is given to the public when a financial institution is closed. First Independence Bank, Detroit, MI assumed substantially all the deposit accounts and substantially all the assets. All shares of stock were owned by the holding company, which was not involved in this transaction.

January 30, 2026 Official Press Release

If You Had a Deposit Account

The full balance of all deposit accounts, excluding certain brokered deposits, has been transferred to First Independence Bank.

You may continue to use your checks and ATM/Debit card. Direct deposits like paychecks and social security benefits will continue as usual. Please refer to the Banking Services section below for more details.

EDIE — Electronic Deposit Insurance EstimatorCalculate insurance coverage of deposit accounts

Facts for DepositorsGeneral information explaining the role of FDIC

You should continue to make payments, including escrow payments, as usual; the terms of your loan will not change.

If your loan is currently in process or you had a line of credit, contact your loan officer.

If you are making escrow payments and receive notification that any portion of your taxes or insurance was not paid, contact your loan officer.

If you received notice that the FDIC retained your loan, and you have questions, please visit the FDIC Information and Support Center.

If You Are Owed Money for a Service or Product Provided

You may be eligible to file a claim against Metropolitan Capital Bank & Trust.

If you have not been paid for services rendered on or before January 30, 2026, please refer to the Filing Claims section below.

Facts for CreditorsGeneral information explaining the role of FDIC

If you are concerned about becoming a victim of fraud, be advised that you will not receive any communication from the FDIC requesting any private information. Be watchful for and resistant to any scams to obtain information from you by individuals or entities stating they are acting on behalf of Metropolitan Capital Bank & Trust, First Independence Bank, or the FDIC. The FDIC, however, will encourage you to correspond with us via the Failed Bank Customer Service Center (FBCSC), a secure web portal.

All deposit accounts, excluding Cede & Co. deposits, have been transferred to First Independence Bank, Detroit, MI ("assuming institution") and will be available immediately. The former Metropolitan Capital Bank & Trust location(s) will reopen as branch(es) of First Independence Bank during regular business hours.

All transferred deposits will be separately insured from any accounts you may already have at First Independence Bank for at least six months after the failure of Metropolitan Capital Bank & Trust. Checks that were drawn on Metropolitan Capital Bank & Trust that did not clear before the institution closed will be honored as long as there are sufficient funds in the account.

First Independence Bank will review deposit rates. You will be notified of any changes. You may withdraw your funds from any transferred account without an early withdrawal penalty until you enter into a new deposit agreement with First Independence Bank as long as the deposit(s) are not pledged as collateral for loan(s).

First Independence Bank7310 Woodward AveDetroit, MI 48202

All deposit accounts, excluding certain brokered deposits, have been transferred to First Independence Bank. If you are a customer who has a Metropolitan Capital Bank & Trust deposit through a broker, you must contact your broker with any questions.

These services will continue as usual. Your routing number and account number will remain the same until you are notified in writing by First Independence Bank.

Your ATM/Debit card will continue to work as usual.

Your checks will be processed as usual. All outstanding checks will be paid against your available balance(s). First Independence Bank will contact you soon regarding any changes in the terms of your account. If you have a problem with a merchant refusing to accept your check, please contact your branch office.

All direct deposits, for example, social security, payroll, veterans' benefits, disability, unemployment or any payment you receive electronically will continue as usual.

These lines have been transferred to First Independence Bank. Please contact First Independence Bank if you have additional questions regarding your accounts.

You will have access to your safe deposit boxes during normal business hours. Any changes will be communicated by First Independence Bank.

First Independence Bank will be responsible for mailing your 1099 tax information. Your 1098 reporting will be done by the FDIC or the servicer of your loan. You will be notified of any changes in ownership or servicing of your loan.

If you or your company provided a service or product, leased space, furniture, or equipment to Metropolitan Capital Bank & Trust on or before January 30, 2026, and have not been paid, you may have a claim against Metropolitan Capital Bank & Trust.

All creditors having claims against Metropolitan Capital Bank & Trust must submit their Proof of Claim form, along with the supporting documentation, to the Receiver through one of the following methods: online, by email, or by mail. You can complete the Proof of Claim form and provide supporting documentation electronically through the Failed Bank Customer Service Center (FBCSC). To file a claim via email or mail, please go to Deposit Claims & Asset Sales to obtain a Proof of Claim form. Please complete the Proof of Claim form along with supporting documentation and submit via email, or by mail.

FDIC as Receiver for Metropolitan Capital Bank & TrustAttention: Non-Deposit Claims600 North Pearl StreetSuite 700Dallas, TX 75201

NOTE TO CLASS CLAIMANTS: By law, the Receiver will not accept a claim filed on behalf of a proposed class of individuals or entities or a class of individuals or entities certified by a court. EACH individual or entity must file a separate claim with the Receiver.

In accordance with Federal law, allowed claims will be paid, after administrative expenses, in the following order of priority:

All shares of Metropolitan Capital Bank & Trust are owned by its holding company, Metropolitan Capital Bancorp, Inc., Chicago, IL. The holding company was not included in the closing of the bank or resulting receivership.

If you are a shareholder, please do not contact or file a claim with the Receiver. You must contact the holding company directly:

Contact Information

Contact the FDIC Call Center at 1-866-314-1744.

Central Time

DayTime
Friday, January 30, 2026Until 9:00 p.m.
Saturday, January 31, 20269:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m.
Sunday, February 1, 202612:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m.
Monday, February 2, 20268:00 a.m. – 8:00 p.m.
Thereafter:9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.

Chicago, IL Weather Alert: 2+ Inch Lake Effect Snow Near I-90, I-80, I-57 Tonight Through Saturday

Periods of intense lake effect snow will impact parts of northeast Illinois and northwest Indiana from Friday evening through Saturday, creating dangerous travel conditions and rapidly changing visibility.According to the National Weather Service Chicago, lake effect snow bands will continue to develop near Lake Michigan, producing snowfall rates of 1 to 2 inches per hour, with locally higher amounts possible in northwest Indiana. Areas near and north...

Periods of intense lake effect snow will impact parts of northeast Illinois and northwest Indiana from Friday evening through Saturday, creating dangerous travel conditions and rapidly changing visibility.

According to the National Weather Service Chicago, lake effect snow bands will continue to develop near Lake Michigan, producing snowfall rates of 1 to 2 inches per hour, with locally higher amounts possible in northwest Indiana. Areas near and north of U.S. 30, including portions of I-90, I-94, I-80, and I-65, face the highest risk for hazardous conditions.

Snow is expected to intensify Friday evening through midnight, initially affecting parts of northeast Illinois before shifting east into northwest Indiana late tonight into early Saturday, where peak intensity is forecast. Additional snow bands may redevelop closer to the lakeshore Saturday morning before gradually weakening Saturday afternoon.

Total accumulations may exceed 2 inches, with localized higher totals where persistent snow bands set up. Forecasters warn that snowfall amounts may vary dramatically over short distances, leading to sudden whiteout conditions, especially during heavier bursts. Gusty north winds of 25 to 30 mph along the lakeshore will further reduce visibility and cause blowing snow.

Temperatures will remain bitterly cold, with daytime highs Saturday only in the lower to mid-20s, allowing snow to accumulate quickly on untreated roadways. Travel may become dangerous with little warning, particularly during overnight and early morning hours.

Motorists are urged to avoid unnecessary travel, monitor road conditions closely, and allow extra time if travel is unavoidable. Drivers are reminded not to crowd snowplows and to be prepared for rapidly changing conditions.

Light snow chances continue into early next week, but lake effect impacts will remain the primary concern through Saturday. Residents should continue monitoring updates from the National Weather Service Chicago as band placement and intensity remain subject to change.

2026 primary elections: Voter information in Illinois, Indiana, Wisconsin

CHICAGO (WLS) -- Midterm election year is here and ABC7 Chicago wants to make sure you have all the resources you need before Election Day.The Illinois midterm election will be held on Tuesday, March 17, 2026. Polls will be open from 6 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Tuesday.Early voting for the primary election is open until March 16.Locations for early voting in Illinois can be found at elections.il.gov.The general election is Nov. 3, 2026.More resources and important dates for voters in Illinois, Indiana and Wisconsin...

CHICAGO (WLS) -- Midterm election year is here and ABC7 Chicago wants to make sure you have all the resources you need before Election Day.

The Illinois midterm election will be held on Tuesday, March 17, 2026. Polls will be open from 6 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Tuesday.

Early voting for the primary election is open until March 16.

Locations for early voting in Illinois can be found at elections.il.gov.

The general election is Nov. 3, 2026.

More resources and important dates for voters in Illinois, Indiana and Wisconsin can be found below.

Illinois State Board of Elections - Election information, voting FAQ and other resources.

Candidate lookup - Find out who is running for office in Illinois.

Voter Registration information - See registration rules and find out how to register.

Registration Lookup - Find out if you are registered to vote in Illinois.

Polling place locator - Locate your polling place.

Illinois election dates and deadlines - Important dates for local, state and federal elections.

Indiana's primary election is taking place on May 5, 2026. The deadline to register to vote is April 6, 2026.

Indiana Voter Portal - The Indiana Voter Portal has information about voter registration, polling locations, voting options and more.

Indiana election dates and deadlines - Important dates for local, state and federal elections.

Indiana Secretary of State - Further information about candidates, campaigns and the election.

The Wisconsin presidential primary election is April 7, 2026.

My Vote Wisconsin - Information about polling places, candidates and voter registration.

Wisconsin election dates and deadlines - Important dates for local, state and federal elections.

Wisconsin Elections Commission - Further election information.

U.S. Senate

Contact your U.S. Senator

Indiana State Senate Passes Stadium Legislation in Attempt to Land Chicago Bears

At no other point in the Chicago Bears’ 106-year history has the team’s future home location been in greater question than it is today. Amid long-standing disagreements between Illinois leaders and Bears’ leadership over property tax rates, current levels of team debt, public infrastructure funding, and more, the two sides appear to be relatively divided and distant in their ongoing negotiations. Given these gaps, Illinois’ eastern neighbor has entered the conversation by establishing a public-facing plan meant to ent...

At no other point in the Chicago Bears’ 106-year history has the team’s future home location been in greater question than it is today. Amid long-standing disagreements between Illinois leaders and Bears’ leadership over property tax rates, current levels of team debt, public infrastructure funding, and more, the two sides appear to be relatively divided and distant in their ongoing negotiations. Given these gaps, Illinois’ eastern neighbor has entered the conversation by establishing a public-facing plan meant to entice a move by the Bears.

Just yesterday, the Indiana Senate made a tangible commitment to the NFL franchise: advancing legislation that would establish a clear path to a new Chicago Bears stadium. This plan to attract the Bears has already seen support from a plethora of Indiana stakeholders, with legislators, mayors, and the governor all actively contributing to the public campaign. Normally considered the nation’s premier basketball state, Indiana’s recent actions signal that it desires to be taken seriously on the gridiron—both at the collegiate and professional levels.

Hoosiers Court Da Bears

Stemming from Bears President and CEO Kevin Warren’s December 17 announcement that the team was exploring sites outside Illinois borders, Indiana leaders have taken every opportunity to publicly support a potential union between one of the NFL’s flagship franchises and the Hoosier State. Whether from the Governor’s Mansion, the state legislature, or the town of Gary, all parties involved seemingly appear to be rowing in the same direction. This synergy between Indiana leaders has become apparent over the last few weeks, with major initiatives occurring across levels of government.

In Indianapolis, substantial progress has been made on a potential legislative deal to nudge the Bears across the border to northwest Indiana. Originally introduced back in December by Senator Ryan Mishler—and later amended on January 15 to its current form—S.B. 27 passed the Indiana Senate with an overwhelming 46-2 vote yesterday. This bill, which would create the Northwest Indiana Stadium Authority, establishes avenues for professional sports teams— namely the Chicago Bears—to call Indiana home.

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According to the bill’s fiscal analysis, the Bears would be required to enter into at least a 35-year lease with the state of Indiana should they choose to move. After a term which may not “exceed[] 40 years,” the Bears would be able to purchase the stadium for “$1 if certain conditions are met.” Additionally, the bill would allow the newly-created stadium authority to issue 40-year bonds financing: (i) the purchase of land; and (ii) the construction of a new stadium.

A Bears spokesperson called the legislation a “significant milestone” in these ongoing discussions centered on a “potential stadium development in Chicagoland’s Northwest Indiana region.”

On January 15, the city of Gary published renderings for potential stadium sites at three distinct locations—Gary West End, Buffington Harbor, and Miller Beach—throughout the northeast Indiana suburb. At a link titled “bearstadiumdistrict.com,” the city unveiled plans for a comprehensive, mixed-use stadium district meant to serve as a hub for Bears fans in the region. As part of the release, the city touted both the corporate tax rate (9.50% in Cook County, IL, vs. 4.90% in Lake County, IN) and sales tax rate (10.25% vs. 7.00%) advantages that would accompany the Bears in a move.

In a January 17 interview, Gary Mayor Eddie Melton discussed the plan, labeling his city an attractive option for the Bears given “the proximity…the infrastructure that already exists, and…some of the amenities that some of the other sites do not have.”

In his annual State of the State address, Governor Mike Braun backed the efforts of Indiana legislators and the City of Gary in seeking to attract the Bears. Braun touted the state’s “strong business environment,” and additionally called it “not surprising” that the Bears “noticed that Indiana is open for business.” Braun subsequently emphasized that he was “working hard to bring the Chicago Bears to the Hoosier State.” Upon yesterday’s Senate passage of S.B. 27, Braun commented that the creation of a Northwest Indiana stadium authority is “the next critical step” in the state’s pursuit of the Bears.

Illinois Leaders Respond

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In response to recent policy actions coming out of both Gary and Indianapolis, Illinois public officials have been forced to rejoin Bears’ brass at the negotiating table. The looming threat of losing the franchise from Cook County—and potentially the state of Illinois altogether—has caused Governor J.B. Pritzker, Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson, and Arlington Heights Mayor Jim Tinaglia (among others) to clarify their positions on key questions surrounding a new stadium development.

Currently valued at $8.2 billion, the Bears’ organization maintains a significant amount of bargaining power regarding questions of property tax payments, public infrastructure spending, and debt owed on Soldier Field.

Recently, Governor J.B. Pritzker said that “the financial responsibility” for nearly $365 million of debt on Soldier Field “does not fall on the Bears.” This statement comes as just five months ago, Pritzker publicly argued that Illinois taxpayers “should not be left on the hook for the debt that came from building Soldier Field.” Pritzker subsequently emphasized that he “want[s] to help” with public infrastructure investments,” before stating that “we’re not going to build a stadium for the Chicago Bears.”

Meanwhile, Mayor Brandon Johnson seems to be the lone public figure holding out hope that the Bears may stay in Chicago. On WBEZ Radio earlier this month, Mayor Johnson commented that he “still believe[s] that the lakefront is the best place” for the franchise. Johnson added, “anywhere outside of that, they’re no longer the Chicago Bears.”

In an interview last Thursday with Chicago’s 670 The Score, Arlington Heights Mayor Jim Tinaglia echoed concerns regarding a possible move by the Bears to Indiana. Mayor Tinaglia explained that Illinois leaders are currently taking the threat of a relocation “very seriously,” and instead highlighted the benefits of a potential stadium in Arlington Heights.

Given that the Bears’ current home of Soldier Field is publicly-owned and generates no property tax revenue, Tinaglia argued that a private Arlington Heights development would serve to benefit all parties involved—especially Cook County. As the Bears weigh options for the location of their future home, Mayor Tinaglia remarked that the team is “just looking for some certainty on what the yearly tax bill will be.”

Mayor Tinaglia’s sentiment reflects a tone he struck in a letter sent January 16 to Illinois legislators, citing property taxes as a key factor in the Bears’ decision to consider stadium sites outside the state. According to Tinaglia’s projections, the Bears would be slated to pay $100-200 million in annual property taxes should they choose to privately finance a stadium in Illinois. Meanwhile, the next highest tax bill in the NFL sits around $8 million for Los Angeles Rams owner Stan Kroenke. The existence of this massive discrepancy has led Tinaglia (among others) to champion the “Mega Projects Bill,” legislation (H.B. 4058, H.B. 2789, S.B. 1514) that would lower the property tax burden on large-scale developments in Illinois. Mayor Tinaglia, his fellow Arlington Heights leaders, and several Illinois state lawmakers recently held a press conference titled, “Keep the Bears in Illinois,” where they emphasized the “need to pass a Mega Projects Bill immediately in [the current] legislative term.”

What’s Going On?

Although Indiana maintains momentum in this ongoing interstate showdown, the state’s House Speaker, Todd Huston, has exercised restraint in championing a potential deal with the Bears. Huston recently confirmed that there exists an appetite among Indiana lawmakers to enact a stadium authority mechanism, but refrained from publicly supporting House passage short of a Bears’ commitment to Indiana. “If we are going to move this legislation,” Huston added, “it will be with a commitment that when we pass it, a deal is done.”

With Indiana’s legislature currently scheduled to adjourn on February 27, state legislators must act swiftly to ensure a bill reaches Governor Braun’s desk before they are sent home for the year. Given Speaker Huston’s recent comments, it is uncertain whether S.B. 27 will be a priority for the Indiana House next month—unless the Bears’ front office were to promptly approve the project. In Springfield, however, Illinois legislators will likely have until May 31 to work on a Mega Projects Bill.

The Bears’ front office has said the Mega Projects Bill “creates a fair, predictable framework for property taxes,” with Kevin Warren adding that the team is “not able to proceed forward” in Illinois without the legislation’s passage.

What 219 TripAdvisor Reviews Reveal About The Neighborhood Hotel Little Italy - Chicago, IL

Chicago, IL — At Experiential Capital Group (ECG), we recently completed a comprehensive analysis of 219 TripAdvisor reviews for The Neighborhood Hotel, Little Italy to better understand what is driving guest decision-making, satisfaction, and repeatability at the property.The review set represents 100% of all TripAdvisor feedback published between October 2023 and January 2026. This was a full-dataset review, not a sample.What we saw in the data was a clear pict...

Chicago, IL — At Experiential Capital Group (ECG), we recently completed a comprehensive analysis of 219 TripAdvisor reviews for The Neighborhood Hotel, Little Italy to better understand what is driving guest decision-making, satisfaction, and repeatability at the property.

The review set represents 100% of all TripAdvisor feedback published between October 2023 and January 2026. This was a full-dataset review, not a sample.

What we saw in the data was a clear picture of how institutional proximity, neighborhood integration, and thoughtful in room execution combines to create a hospitality concept with durable (and scalable) demand.

The Neighborhood Hotel – Little Italy maintains a 4.9 out of 5 rating on TripAdvisor, with 94% of reviews rated five stars. Lower-rated feedback is rare and typically tied to isolated, non-recurring issues rather than systemic experience gaps.

Importantly, guest expectations around space, livability, communication, and location are consistently met—a key indicator of operational repeatability.

Nearly one quarter of all guests (24%) explicitly referenced proximity to UIC, Rush Hospital, or the Illinois Medical District as part of their decision to stay.

These mentions were unprompted and embedded in open-ended guest commentary, underscoring that demand is structurally supported by healthcare, academic, and professional activity, not dependent on discretionary leisure travel.

“Safe area, near UIC and Rush Hospital, with many places to eat right outside the door.”

Location matters, but how guests experience that location matters more.

50.2% of all TripAdvisor reviews explicitly mention the surrounding neighborhood, including Little Italy and Taylor Street. Guests consistently describe walkability, safety, and street-level retail as integral to the stay—not ancillary benefits.

“Little Italy is fantastic—walkable, full of restaurants, and felt like a real neighborhood, not a tourist zone.”

This level of neighborhood engagement is notable in hospitality reviews and signals that the asset benefits from genuine integration with its surroundings rather than isolation from them.

Beyond location, guests repeatedly highlighted small, functional details as signals of quality and care.

In aggregate, roughly one-third of guests cited in-room details as meaningful contributors to their experience—reinforcing that perceived quality is driven by execution and consistency, not excess.

“The room had everything we needed and then some—full kitchen, washer, coffee bar, and even a steamer.”

As guest expectations continue to shift towardlonger stays, livable layouts, and real neighborhood integration, the review patterns suggest that demand will increasingly favor properties embedded in active communities and anchored by institutional activity.

Rather than prioritizing traditional hotel formality, guests are signaling a preference for function, clarity, and thoughtful design—delivered consistently and without friction. These attributes are inherently repeatable, making them well suited for disciplined expansion across similar urban and institutional contexts.

The findings reinforce Experiential Capital Groups broader hospitality thesis:

durable performance is built where institutional demand, neighborhood integration, and operational discipline intersect.

By grounding product decisions in verifiable guest feedback, rather than brand positioning alone, The Neighborhood Hotel's hospitality concepts can scale without diluting experience or relying on cyclical demand.

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