Beware of fake ‘newspapers’ packaged as the old-school real deal

Newspapers packed with political messaging mailed to voters (left) and mailers from the Democratic Party of Illinois warning voters about them. (Anthony Vazquez/ Sun-Times,)

Almost everyone knows that when they read a write-up in The Onion, the online stories are humorous critiques on our culture and sharp satirical takes on the news.

The copy, at times, can be so on the nose about the state of the world, it feels real. But when we nod our heads, laugh and sometimes, sigh, in agreement, we know The Onion is a parody.