It has been 15 years since the terrorist attacks of September 11th. A day we will never forget. Nearly 3000 people were killed, more than 6000 injured. Since then there have been more than 37 domestic and foreign terrorist attacks in the United States. Some experts have cautioned the country could face even greater security risks under President Elect Donald Trump. So is the country safer today? And are big cities like Chicago prepared to respond if terrorism strikes here.
Since 9/11 the United States has spent one trillion dollars on national security and created new agencies such as the Department of Homeland Security and the Transportation Security Administration. Some of the funds have been allocated to help Chicago and surrounding communities prepare for a terrorist attack. In fact, local, state and federal agencies have recently staged mock terrorist attacks just to make sure they are prepared.
When it comes to celebrating the holidays, many remember the festive decorations at Marshall Fields, now Macy’s. At one time considered the grand dame of department stores, this iconic Chicago establishment never failed to please during the holidays, a tradition that continues even now.