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Friday Afternoon Diversion: Patriotic Bugs Bunny
Ah, old school, war-time propaganda!
City DPH Could Face Cuts
With the City already staring down major cuts, the Department of Public Health could be adding to the cutbacks. The DPH could be forced to cut spending by 25 percent and layoff as many as 80 workers. The main culprit? The ongoing state budget crisis in Springfield right now. Dr. Terry Mason, DPH head, said yesterday at a press conference, “This is real. This is not something that is contrived. You cannot make bricks without straw and you cannot provide services without people. This political game which is being framed as an economic argument, but it’s a political game and it needs a political solution and it needs it now.” Other departments, such as the Department of Family and Support Services, also face double-digit cuts. [Chi-Town Daily News]
Huge Pile-Up On I-294 Backs Up Traffic
According to Chicago Breaking News: It was uncertain how long it will take to clear the highway because only one tow truck at a time can access the crash site, he said.
Beware if you're heading out to get on I-294 for weekend travel right now. A 15-car pile-up between Willow and Lake-Cook Roads on the I-294 tollway has caused a seven mile long traffic jam, causing a complete highway clusterfuck.Police have shut access to the lane at Dempster Street as police wait for tow trucks to clear the damaged vehicles, [District 15 State Police Master Sgt. Ed] Petrik said. The drivers who are going the wrong way are having to cross traffic in local lanes to head back north at the Dempster entrance, causing a further driving hazard, Petrik said.
Update: And no sooner do we post...[via CBN]
A northbound express lane through a construction zone of the Tri-State Tollway was blocked for almost two hours this morning by a 15-vehicle crash, backing up traffic and causing frustrated drivers to try to turn around and drive south in the lane, state police said.Traffic was moving again after the express lane was reopened about 11:40 a.m., but north of where the express lane ends one of three lanes on the highway was still blocked after noon, slowing traffic, police said.
So, not as bad but still pretty bad. Drive with caution.
Giannoulias Connection To Clout List?
The Chicago Tribune's investigation into the University of Illinois has now reached State Treasurer Alexi Giannoulias. Giannoulias' adviser Endy Zemenides allegedly helped get a student off the wait list and into school and in turn, a Greek Orthodox priest, a family friend of the student who had reached out to Zemenides, held a fundraiser for Giannoulias that earned over $120,000. Giannoulias is currently eyeballing a run at Sen. Roland Burris' senate seat. His campaign distanced Giannoulias from the student, saying he knew nothing of the request, and Giannoulias has not been connected to any other student on the list.
Outrage! Aldermen Hold Hearing On Meter Deal
The Council explored rolling back some of the parking hikes in the wake of a parking rebellion of sorts, mainly in the form of motorists referring to park. According to the Sun-Times, Ald. Tom Tunney (44th) said: Deputy Corporation Counsel Jim McDonald admitted that yes, the Council has the right to set parking meter rates but if the Council decides to roll it back, Chicago Parking Meters LLC would have to be compensated for the change. In the "It Happened To Me!" portion of the proceedings, Ald. Leslie Hairston (5th) ranted about a mix-up at a parking meter box that wound up with her shilling out $32.50 for overnight parking instead of her desired time frame. Chicago Parking Meters LLC Chief Executive Officer Dennis Pedrelli said this happened because Hairston parked on the street around 7 p.m., at which time the meter is programmed to charge for parking overnight, through 10 a.m. the next morning. But Hairston complained that there is no indication that pushing the "max" button will result in a bill for overnight parking. "You have to communicate, and you can't be deceiving the public," Hairston said. 
Seven months after they approved Mayor Daley's parking meter privatization deal, the City Council held a hearing to angrily express their outrage over the deal. This from the same City Council that voted 45-5 to approve the deal and, when one alderman complained about the lack of time for review, prompted the classic response from Ald. Mell (33rd), "How many of us read the stuff we do get, OK?. I try to. I try to. I try to. But being realistic, being realistic, it's like getting your insurance policy. It's small print, OK?" Small print, indeed. "Utilization has fallen through the floor. We have nobody using these meters. It is not working. If you're going down Belmont, no one's parking on the street. If we don't get utilization up, our districts are gonna suffer on retail sales. It will have a damaging effect on meter retail communities, which is the lifeblood of our neighborhoods. We have to get this right. We get zero utilization. How do we bring everyone back to the table and say, 'We've got to restructure this deal?'"
She said while attending a dinner on Wacker Drive near the Sears Tower recently, she pressed the "max" button on a new pay-box parking meter, and was charged $32.50.
Not a whole helluva lot was decided, though, as the hearing ended. As always, we'd like to remind you of the five alderman who actually had the cajones to vote against the deal: Toni Preckwinkle (4th), Leslie Hairston (5th), Billy Ocasio (26th), Scott Waguespack (32nd) and Rey Colon (35th). Check out the Trib's recap and, as always, The Reader's Mick Dumke has a solid round-up.
Last Second Plans: G-Fest XVI
What is G-Fest you ask? Why, only "the largest regular gathering of Godzilla and Japanese monster fans in the world." You're hooked now, aren't you? Sure, today's conference gets underway, uh, well, it's already underway as you read this, but for $40, it's a great deal and we're sure you can still register at the event. Besides the requisite screening of movies, enjoy interesting (no, seriously, we're not being snarky a-holes for once) panels like "Wicked Godzilla: The Secret History of Americanization," "Other Giant Monsters - Notable Creatures in Non-Japanese Science Fiction," and "Who’s Afraid of Godzilla?" Check out the entire schedule here. The fest runs through Sunday evening with screenings held at The Pickwick Theater in Park Ridge. via Windy Citizen
It's Fourth of July weekend but maybe you're not into the patriotic stuff. Sure, you love stuff exploding so the fireworks are cool, but maybe you don't dig all the John Philip Sousa that goes along with it. Or kids in big Uncle Sam hats waving tiny American flags. The sound of Lee Greenwood makes you sick. That's cool. We're not here to judge you. What we're here to do is to point you to the Crowne Plaza Chicago O’Hare for this year's G-Fest.
Morning Box Score
Derek Lee Beats Brewers Sox Streak At Six
AP Photo/John Smierciak
Derek Lee solidified himself as the one Cubs offensive performer worthy of an invitation to the All-Star Game by homering twice and knocking in seven runs as the Cubs raced past the Brewers 9-5. Lee got things started with a three-run homer in the first and was followed up by Jake Fox who hit a solo shot. Mike Cameron hit a two-run shot for the Brewers in the second to cut the Cubs lead in half, but D-Lee responded with a grand slam in the bottom of the fourth as the North Siders blew the game wide-open. Geovanny Soto completed the scoring-only-on-homers night for the Cubs as he belted a solo shot in the fourth as well. Of course, never ones to make things easy, the Cubs pitching staff allowed the Brewers to score runs late, but Lee's offense was enough to pace the team. Ryan Dempster had a good start, allowing four runs (three earned) over 6.2 innings while striking out nine. Aaron Heilman allowed a run in the eighth but the bullpen, which included appearances from Sean Marshall and Carlos Marmol, held the Brewers. Don't look now, but the Cubs are only 2.5 out of first. The two teams tangle again this afternoon at 1:20 p.m. (CSN).
Excellent pitching and timely hitting pushed the Sox past the Kansas City Royals 4-1 last night. Mark Buehrle pitched 8.1 innings allowing only run and scattering six hits in a sterling performance from the mound. The Sox offense backed up the performance, too. Jayson Nix homered in the fourth to get the Sox on the board and the Sox then added a run in each of the last three innings to extend the lead. Bobby Jenks pitched the last 0.2 innings for his 19th save. With a Detroit off night, the White Sox are, like their North Side counter-parts, now just 2.5 games out of first. Game two of the series is tonight at 7:10 p.m. (CSN).
Six State Banks Fail, One In Chicago Area
It was a bad day for Illinois banks yesterday as six banks across the state failed. According to the FDIC, the banks that failed were:
Chicago-based PrivateBank took on the assets of Founders Bank, according to Crain's, meaning all 11 area branches of Founders will reopen on Monday as PrivateBank Branches.
Today's Weather: Spectacular
If you're one of the few people in an office today...we feel your pain. And you're missing a gorgeous day outside. So what are you waiting for? Get outside! Sunny skies and highs in the upper 70's? No excuse to be indoors. Besides, you can always read our mobile version from the park.
Extra, Extra
Concern Over Stolen Fireworks
Around 5,000 pounds of "high-powered, commercial-grade fireworks" have gone missing in DuPage County and now authorities are worried whoever stole them may not be ready for the oomph of the explosives which are more powerful than the bottle rockets and low-grade shells that most people buy from stands and shoot off on Independence Day. Sgt. Jim Ruff, commander of the department's Hazardous Device Unit, put it succinctly when talking to the Sun-Times: "If one of these things goes off in your hand, you're probably going to die." But authorities say at least 5,000 pounds of fireworks may have been removed from the stash -- and possibly sold or distributed in small quantities -- before police became aware of the supply.The sheriff's department recently helped dispose of a large quantity of commercial-grade fireworks illegally stored in southern DuPage County, though officials wouldn't disclose more information because the investigation is ongoing.
Also of concern are the fuses which for these larger, more powerful shells, burn much faster than most small-time explosives: at a rate as fast as 100 feet per second. [Sun-Times]
Thursday Afternoon Diversion: MJ vs MJ
At the risk of going overboard on the whole Michael Jackson thing, we had to share one more video from the vaults: the video for "Jam" which paired Jackson with Chicago Bulls great Michael Jordan. Below is a behind-the-scenes featurette which includes the awkward "casually shooting hoops" scene. After the jump, check out the video in its entirety.
Study: Illinois Kids Rank High In Overweight Study
In another round of Great News!, it turns out kids in Illinois are getting fatter. In a study just released, based on 2007 data from the National Survey of Children's Health, Illinois children rank fourth in the United States in terms of being overweight or obese with 20.7 percent of the children tipping the scales. Illinois adults fared better in the report. According to other CDC data, the state ranked 27th for adult obesity at 25.9 percent. An additional 36.4 percent of Illinois adults were overweight.
Students at Eberhart Elementary School exercise; AP Photo/M. Spencer Green"This is a growing trend, not just in Illinois but throughout the country," said Kelly Jakubek, Illinois Department of Public Health spokeswoman. "We've worked hard to implement programs that help kids eat more healthily and be more active, but that takes a commitment from parents and students and families."
Illinois was 10th overall for the 10 to 17 age bracket, meaning teens are getting in on the act as well. [Tribune, CBS 2]
Rachael Yamagata Rejoins Bumpus ... To Co-Headline Benefit
There are no announced plans for Yamagata to actually sing with Bumpus, since she hasn't appeared publicly with the band since 2002. but, c'mon, do you seriously not expect her to join the band for at least one tune? Each artist has progressed immeasurably since they were a team; Bumpus has widened their sound and explored darker lyrical themes while still keeping things danceable a la Sly Stone, and Yamagata's solo output has grown more self-assured as she's mapped out her own artistic vision. But we have to admit that the idea of seeing them belt out past floorshakers like "Some Kind Of Lonely" or (god forbid) their cover of Nine Inch Nail's "Closer" that melted pants into so many puddles on the floor. Rachael Yamagata and Bumpus play July 9 at Logan Square Auditorium, 2539 N Kedzie, 7:30 p.m., $25 in advance / $30 at the door, 21+
Rachael Yamagata and Bumpus are playing a show next week at Logan Square Auditorium to raise money for Ryszard Basiura, the father of a friend close to both acts who has been incredibly ill and faces mounting hospital bills. Darren Spitzer of The Changes (ex- of The Changes? Are they even still "officially" together any more?) will be donating his DJ skills between and after the bands as well.
Ditka Dissed
Coach Ditka, who graced the ESPN booth for one of their opening weekend Monday Night Football games, will not be in the booth this year. Instead, ESPN is using former star QB Steve Young. Still, as ProFootballTalk was kind enough to share, Ditka had at least one memorable moment in his time in the ESPN booth.
DOWNLOAD: The Horse's Ha
But hey, we'll let the music speak for itself. Check out two track from their debut as well as a Slapp Happy cover that didn't make the final cut. MP3: The Horse's Ha "Asleep In A Waterfall" The Horse's Ha plays a record release show for Of The Cathmawr Yards tomorrow, July 3, at Schubas, 3159 N Southport, 10 p.m., $10, 21+
James Elkington and Janet Beveridge Bean
MP3: The Horse's Ha "The Piss Choir"
MP3: The Horse's Ha "Slow Moon's Rose (non-album track, Slapp Happy cover)"
CTA Wants To Hear From You
Got a gripe for the CTA? Bus bunching? Poor train conditions? Now's your chance to tell them what's wrong and how to improve their service. You can swing by their site and take this survey. Update: As pointed out by commenters below, it seems the only way to actually take the survey is to select "None of the Above" as your employment. So if you're in marketing, PR, advertising, or anything else related to transportation, the CTA isn't all that interested. Or it's just a glitch.
Ald. Flores Gets Backing On Olympic Cap
It looks like Ald. Manny Flores (1st) has a bit of company in his bid to cap Olympic spending. Earlier this week, Flores introduced an ordinance to the City Council and so far 10 more aldermen have signed on to back the cap. They are, according to the Tribune: 
In addition to the cap, Ald. Flores is also leading a group of aldermen who want a third-party auditor to look at the Chicago 2016 bid cost projections.
Update: Add Willie Cochran (20th) to the list.
Quick Spins: Miike Snow, Discovery, Wonderlick
In which we take a quick look at a few recent musical releases. Miike Snow's "Animal" off their self-titled debut is in the running for two prizes this year. Prize #1: It may beat Phoenix for "most remixed track of the year." Prize #2: It's in the running for summer tune of the season. It's simple melodies, and the interesting laying of a reggae beat over a driving snare transform it into something simultaneously sunny and laid back. The remainder of the album never reaches the heights of "Animal," but it provides enough energetic and cooly catchy moments--and by cool we mean air conditioning in a convertible--to keep the listener entertained. And right when you think you have the group pegged, all breathy falsettos and electronic drive, they throw in a mind-bender like the reverse tape-loop disco of "In Search Of," to keep you from underestimating their pop smarts. Discovery is the side project of members of Vampire Weekend and Ra Ra Riot, and honestly, this should suck and grate our nerves into fine Parmesan since we're not exactly huge fans of either band. But we're pros, so we soldiered on a gave the disc a listen. And then another. And another. And it's good! Rostam Batmanglij and Wes Miles take the more winning points of each of their day-job bands, primarily playful beats and engaging lyrical phrasing, and set them over an electronic pastiche of simple beats and inventive melodic turns. It ain't IDM, but we would go with allowing cerebral hip shakers and a descriptive here. It's simple, effective, and altogether harmlessly enjoyable. Wonderlick Did you know that one of the guys from Too Much Joy went on to become the VP of Programming at Rhapsody, and another became a TV producer and video director? We didn't either. Nor did we know that the two in question, Tim Quirkand Jay Blumenfield had gotten back together and had been messing around in the studio under the name Wonderlick. Nor did we know that they had recorded an album, Topless at the Arco Arena, that comes out next week. Or that said album would be stuffed with genre jumping tunes, some of which are awesome power pop and some of which are overproduced alterna-dreck, but most of which are just solid workmanlike songs that actually do carry the unmistakable stamp of dudes kinda just making music for themselves and then releasing it later almost as an afterthought. And it's that segment of the band's work that has caused Topless at the Arco Arena to keep creeping onto our playlists with silly synth-punk like "Everybody Loves Jenny (Except Jenny)" or the Lite-NOFX (yeah, that one got us too) of "This Song Is A Commercial." We have a hard time taking Wonderlick seriously, but we don't think that's what their aiming for, and we're cool with that.
Topless At The Arco Arena
Teen Learns Counterfeiting Doesn't Pay
One enterprising Chicago teen is learning you can't sell fake money. The Secret Service arrested 18-year-old Arthur J. Williams III for selling counterfeit $100 bills. According to NBC 5: The individual agreed to cooperate and purchased fake bills from Williams on three occasions. On June 16, Williams allegedly sold the person 24 counterfeit $100 bills for $480. He sold 30 additional bills for $600 on June 17, and another 10 for $200 on June 23, the complaint alleges. After each transaction, agents matched the serial numbers of the bogus bills and discovered counterfeits with the same numbers, totaling $112,900, had been passed in at least a dozen states nationwide in recent months.
Williams could face up to 20 years in prison and a $250,000 fine if convicted.
United Back Online
Seems United has got things churning again out at O'Hare as the check-in kiosks are back online. But it'll take some time to untangle from today's earlier mess so we still highly recommend you check your flight status online if you're flying the friendly skies. [CBN]
AP Photo/M. Spencer Green
Do This: Iron Cupcake Challenge
The competition is being held at Veranda Greek American Taverna (5700 W. Irving Park Rd.) on Monday at 6 PM. If you want to get a sense of the competition, here are some pictures from the last Iron Cupcake Challenge; the theme was citrus. Whet your appetite for our upcoming review of More Cupcakes and join in! For more information or to register, email beautifulcakes@sbcglobal.net 
Fancy cupcakes are a trend that won't die - and we're totally fine with that. But what if you want to do more than just buy cupcakes? If you fancy yourself the equal of Susan's, More or Sensational Bites, throw your hat in the ring and join the Iron Cupcake Challenge. Competitors bring their best cupcakes in for judgment and the winner takes home cupcake glory and prestige. This month's theme is Tropical cupcakes, so bring your best coconut/banana/passionfruit/rum icing and your favorite pastry bag! Does your cupcake reign supreme?
Image via Bleeding Heart Bakery on flickr.
State Comptroller: There's Still Time
State Comptroller Dan Hynes is saying there's still time to save payments to state workers in spite of the fact there's no budget and state lawmakers are waiting until July 14 to return to Springfield, one day before the next checks are scheduled to go out. Hynes says the payroll will be ready to go in case a budget is finalized. In addition, Hynes told WBEZ that social services won't be hurt until later in the summer since money is not immediately delivered, even when the state has a working budget: "If they provided services today, by the time they got their paperwork into the agency and it's submitted to our office, and with the cashflow delays we're having, we're talking several months. So that's why the day-to-day social services don't have a real, hard-and-fast deadline like a payroll does." It's the first time we've heard a "Don't Panic" from a state official, but it's being drowned out by the political posturing of those in charge of putting together the budget.
Free Agency Farewell, Blackhawks Edition
The Bulls weren't the only team bidding farewell to free agents. The Blackhawks joined the club, as two key players from this past season's playoff run have flown the United Center coop to other destinations. First, goalie Nikolai Khabibulin is Edmonton-bound after parting ways with the Blackhawks. The Bulin Wall signed a four years, $15 million deal with the Oilers. Khabibulin, who won a Stanley Cup with the Tampa Bay Lightning in 2004, split time in goal this season with Cristobal Huet, going 25-8-7 with a 2.33 goals-against average and .919 save percentage. Next, with yesterday's signing of Marian Hossa, it seems inevitable that Martin Havlat would part. And part he did, going to the Minnesota Wild, signing a six-year, $30 million deal. But things aren't so cheery from Havlat's point of view. On June 23rd, Havlat tweeted, "Everyone should know I am only thinking about signing with Chicago. It's where I want to be." After yesterday's deals, though, things aren't so rosy. Havlat then tweeted, "Excited to be in Minny where I was welcomed and appreciated by management. The real story about what happened in Chicago to come out." Of course, he added, "Thanks to all Hawks fans for your love and support over the last 3 years. Will never forget your generousity [sic] and the great playoff run!" Also leaving the team for other waters were center Sammy Pahlsson, heading to Columbus, and defenseman Matt Walker, who signed with Tampa Bay.
Review: Public Enemies
That's the legend, and the plot, and the depth of Public Enemies. To quote Leonard Maltin, its only new insight is that crime doesn't pay. In a perverse attempt to camouflage what is essentially the same gangster picture that's been made since the depths of the Great Depression, filmmaker Michael Mann chooses to shoot it largely handheld on digital video and keeps the action choppy. Although the screen is filled with scores of original locations and the best production design money can buy, the movie comes off like a longer, noisier episode of Cops. It's a faux realism that feels airless and joyless. In past films like Thief and The Insider, Mann has shown a flair for emotional stylization, but here he's just dull: no glamor, but no grit either. As usual, Johnny Depp has a certain nonchalant charisma. His Dillinger is almost like 50's-era Elvis in certain moments. But Christian Bale is woefully miscast as ace g-man Melvin Purvis. You keep hoping to see him throw down his badge and don the Batsuit. Instead all you get is Bale in stonyfaced sourpuss mode. Give the man some prunes. The other main characters are flat archetypes, especially Dillinger's cohorts Baby Face Nelson and Pretty Boy Floyd; the movie doesn't care to elucidate the motivations for anyone's behavior and they're too uninteresting to even rate as enigmas. Even Oscar-winning actress Marion Cotillard, as Dillinger's main squeeze Billie, is given little more to do than chew on her accent (although, admittedly, it's a delicious one.) The truly interesting figures are all shoved into the background, including the female sheriff of Crown Point, Indiana (Lili Taylor, wasted), mobster Frank Nitti (Bill Camp) and no-nonsense Texas agent Charles Winstead (an arresting Stephen Lang), who shares the film's best scene with Cotillard at the very end. In fact, largely because we know what's coming the end is the best part of the movie: fate relentlessly closing in on Dillinger during a carefully calibrated sequence at the Biograph. Closeups of Gable and Loy are skillfully intercut with the audience in the theater and the agents taking their positions on the street outside. It has an emotional resonance that's largely missing from the rest of the movie. You might be better off staying home and renting The Untouchables instead. Sure, it plays fast and loose with history, and it's contrived as all get out, but it's got more vitality in any of its five minutes than Public Enemies has front to back.
Once upon a time there was an outlaw named John Dillinger. While the country was in the depths of the Great Depression, he robbed a lot of banks. In fact he robbed so many that the FBI made him Public Enemy No. 1. One by one all his cronies were killed, and his moll Billie Frechette was captured and put in jail. On a hot summer evening Dillinger made the mistake of going to the air-conditioned Biograph Theater to see Manhattan Melodrama, starring Clark Gable and Myrna Loy. As he left the show he was gunned down in an alley and died.
Morning Box Score
Cubs Boot Bucs White Sox Sweep Tribe
The Cubs got another outstanding start from Randy Wells and actually didn't squander it on their way to a 4-1 win over the Pirates. Taking two of three from Pittsburgh, the Cubs have a little momentum coming off their road trip. Wells pitched seven innings, striking out four and allowing a single run in the first inning. Of course, Wells never trailed as Derek Lee blasted a two-run shot in the top of the first. Kosuke Fukudome added a solo shot later and Geovany Soto knocked in a run as well. The struggling team of Marmol & Gregg bounced back with each pitching a scoreless inning to secure the win. Most importantly for the Cubs is that with first-place Milwaukee's loss to New York last night, the Cubs find themselves only three games back with the Brewers coming to town for a big four-game series this weekend.
Break up the Pale Hose! With their 6-2 victory last night over Cleveland, the White Sox have now won five straight. Tied at 1-1, Ramon Castro put the Sox ahead for good with a three-run shot. Alexei Ramirez, Gordon Beckham, and Paul Konerko each knocked in a run as well. On the mound, Jose Contreras pitched lights out for the Sox, going eight strong innings, striking out eight and allowing only the two runs. Matt Thornton pitched a scoreless ninth in mop-up duty. Like the Cubs, the White Sox are easily within striking distance of first in spite of their struggles. Detroit lost last night leaving the Sox just three games back of first place.
CPS Ax Comes Down
Bond said 212 employees based in the central office and 345 others who work "citywide" were laid off Wednesday. The positions included 167 people in "professional mid-management'' making $78,000 to $90,000 a year, Bond said. Human Resources and Information Technology departments in particular were hard hit.
We mentioned it yesterday, but the numbers are in and they aren't pretty. In the first round of cuts meant to save money, the Chicago Public School System has cut 557 jobs. The cuts lower the CPS deficit by about $100 million, from $475 million to $375 million with even more cuts expected in the near future. According to the Sun-Times:"We'd like to save $200 million from layoffs and cutting contracts but we may not be able to get there,'' CPS spokeswoman Monique Bond said. Without firm information from lawmakers on this year's education budget, Bond was hesitant to say whether furloughs could be in the offing. "Who knows what we will have to do?'' she said.
Bond was also vague in the exact positions that were cut, naming "food service" and reading coach positions. Throw in retirements and other position closures, and the CPS could be losing at least 700 employees overall before the next round of cuts.
New Online Tool Brings Transparency To City Payments
The database-driven Web site collects all the information provided by the city about who's being paid what by the city of Chicago's bid-management group, the Department of Procurement. The tool then aggregates the information together onto a website and invites users to search for the names of their favorite (or least-favorite) businesses with city contracts. Any payments that have been made to that company during a specific time frame pop up, and the users are encouraged to rate the transaction's viability - tagging this or that auspicious transaction as goofy. Reporters, bloggers and concerned citizens can then dig deeper into the goofy transactions at the behest of this crowd-sourcing and hopefully find out just where the city's money is going - and why. It's an interesting tool for - the least of which is in the context of the parking meter debacle. It's friendlier than the dataset that the city provides - and in theory, it could provide a window into the darkness of the city's Daley-sanctified business transactions. It's something that the British newspaper, The Guardian is doing to shed light on the expenses filed by many members of Parliament in the United Kingdom - few of whom have quite the same clout in their country as our beloved ruler does on the city's streets. 
We were excited to learn that EveryBlock co-founder Daniel X. O'Neil was working with Harper Reed of Threadless fame to develop a new online gadget - but it's not the hyper-local t-shirt you might immediately presume (pretty please?). Instead, the pair produced a new city government transparency toy: CityPayments. And it's likely to be all the rage among us reporters as it gathers momentum. But what does it do? And why do we care?
It's Ben Expected: Gordon Joins Pistons
With Gordon's departure, the Bulls lose their leading scorer from each of his four seasons -- the shooting guard averaged 20.7 points/game during the 2008-09 season, and over 24 points/game during the playoffs. Perhaps it was his spectacular series against the Boston Celtics that priced Gordon right out of the Bulls' plans. For much of the past year, it looked like Gordon's earlier illusions of worth might cost him in the end -- over the past couple years, he'd previously rejected contract offers of $50 million/5 years and $54 million/6 years. Turns out, his gamble paid off. Many are surprised that he ended up finding somebody willing to offer a richer deal, but Detroit is trying to revamp its team after a disappointing season. Having fired coach Michael Curry yesterday, Detroit also agreed to a $40 million deal with Gordon's former UConn teammate, Charlie Villanueva on Wednesday. Said Gordon when asked about joining the enemy, "The Bulls and Pistons always have had a great rivalry. It will be exciting going against [the Bulls], especially here because this is one of the best sports towns anywhere. I'm definitely going to miss the fans. But being on the other side will be fun too."
AP Photo
And what's the next move for Bulls? In last week's draft, GM Gar Forman selected two power forwards instead of addressing the possibility they might be light in the backcourt. While mid-season acquisition John Salmons played primarily small forward in Luol Deng's absence, perhaps coach Vinny del Negro plans to shift him to shooting guard with Deng recovered from his leg injury. We don't expect the Bulls to make any big free agent slash this year, as they position themselves to lure one of next year's top talents.
Computer Glitch Has United At Standstill At O'Hare
The timing couldn't be worse: as people prepare to leave town for the holiday weekend, a computer glitch has left United Airlines at a standstill at O'Hare. The glitch is preventing passengers from checking in and keeping flights grounded. A spokeswoman has said that United flights are landing but taking a while to proceed to the correct gate. A WGN helicopter flew by and the news crew estimated a line of around 2,000 passengers extending outside the United terminal. On their website, United has issued the following statement: There were no estimates for when the system would be back online.For travel at Chicago O’Hare: We are currently experiencing some delays and cancellations due to an airport check-in system issue. We advise customers to check-in on united.com, confirm the latest information on their flights, and allow extra time at the airport. We apologize for any inconvenience, and we are working to fix the issue.
Today's Weather: Progress!
Today begins a climb back to seasonable warmth and sun. Skies remain mostly cloudy but we think we'll see more sun than yesterday and we'll have warmer temps then yesterday as highs finally cross 70 again. Lows overnight will be in the lower 60s. But an early peek at this weekend's weather shows perfection for our holiday bar-b-ques.
Extra, Extra
Izard Taking Her Drunken Goat For A Stroll
Izard will be doing five "Wandering Goat" dinners ranging in locales from backyards to warehouses. The first one will go down July 26, a BBQ with Allen Brothers meats and Three Floyds beer (which Steph mentioned she was planning in our November interview with us). The one after that will focus on bacon and all its Christ-on-a-stick goodness. The series will culminate with the introduction of Izard's Drunken Goat Wine, made in conjunction with Saviah Cellars in Washington State (makers of "The Jack"). As if the Izard brand needs any further promotion, she'll be announcing when tickets for the dinners go up for sale by announcing them on her Twitter feed. Once the 
As if Stephanie Izard doesn't have enough irons in the fire between traveling to trade shows and events, media appearances, working on her video podcasts, making wine, writing a cookbook with Time Out Chicago's Heather Shouse in addition to opening the Drunken Goat in January (and she's already making charcuterie for that, bless her heart), now comes word that she's leading up tot he Drunken Goat's opening with a series of underground dinners.Tweet announcement happens, tickets (at $50 each) can be purchased at her website.
Feel Good Story of the Day: Doctors Doing Good
NBC Nightly News last night featured a pair of local doctors giving back to the community. Visit msnbc.com for Breaking News, World News, and News about the Economy
Sports News Round-Up
As we head into the holiday weekend, there's a bit of sports news to catch up on. 
AP Photo/Nam Y. Huh
Humpday Diversion: The Best Pipe Organ Tribute To Michael Jackson You'll Hear Today
Title says it all.
Quinn Vetos Part Of Budget, Lawmakers Ditch Springfield
This part of the budget does not serve the needs of people who "have no lobbyist" or "friends in high places," said Quinn, sounding the same type of populist note favored by his predecessor, indicted ex-Gov. Rod Blagojevich. 
AP Photo/Charles Rex Arbogast...Quinn vetoed part of that budget, saying it only funded services for the poor and disabled at 50 percent of what he wanted.
Ouch.
Meanwhile, state lawmakers will return to Springfield to take up the budget battle again on July 14. That's just one day before the July 15th deadline on which there won't be money to pay state employees. As for why lawmakers are waiting two weeks before returning to take up the budget issues, Madigan spokesman Steve Brown said, "We surveyed members and tried to figure out when their schedules would allow them to come back, with the least amount of disruption to their lives. The president and the speaker are trying to treat members as if they're human beings and they have their own lives." No word on what Madigan, Cullerton, or Quinn thought of the disruption of the lives of state employees who won't be receiving paychecks or the hundreds of thousands who'll be affected by the cuts in social services.
Chicagoist
Chicagoist is a website about Chicago. MoreEditor: Marcus GilmerPublisher: Gothamist
July in Chicago - Events and Highlights
As I write in our July events listings, Carl Sandburg may have described Chicago as the City of the Big Shoulders, but in July I think of it more as...
Illinois Baby Names - The Top 100
Expecting? Curious to know if new parents are choosing your name for their babies? Explore this list of the most popular Illinois baby names for girls and boys last...
Video: Michael Jordan and Michael Jackson
There's something especially charming about this video where Michael Jackson hangs out with Michael Jordan. First Jackson plays one-on-one against Jordan. Then, Jordan takes dance lessons from Jackson. Jackson does...
Chicago Responds to the Death of Michael Jackson
I found myself Googling "moonwalk" last night. I wanted to show my kids a video of Michael Jackson so they could understand why the news of his death was exploding...
1 Chicago Photo: Washout Inn III
2110 N. Milwaukee, Chicago, IL
More Photos of Chicago Signs
© Jennifer Roche...
Fourth of July - Plan for your Patriot Weekend
Baseball. Hotdogs. Apple Pie. Fireworks. It's all here and ready for you to plan your Fourth of July celebration.
Chicago July Events | Chicago August Events
Follow me on Twitter | Connect...
Ultra Naté, Debbie Gibson Hit Halsted for Chicago Pride Fest
You ought to have a fest if you're going to have a parade, no? Pride Fest ramps up this weekend with club singer Ultra Naté (right) headlining on Saturday night....
Chicago Bears Training Camp Schedule - Begins July 31
The Chicago Bears have set their free-and-open-to-the-public training schedule for later this summer.
It's tempting to suggest you plan to go see them as a budget-busting way of enjoying the...
Illinois Shakespeare Festival Named to Top 10 by National Geographic
Road Trip?
National Geographic's "The Ten Best of Everything: Families" named the Illinois Shakespeare Festival, located in Bloomington, Illinois, as one of the ten best theater festivals in the nation. The...
Possible Ghost Photos from the Hull-House Museum
Photographed Two Weeks Ago
Reader Katie Self recently took Ursula Bielski's Chicago Haunting Tours and captured these photos of possible ghosts at the Hull-House Museum in Chicago. The Hull-House, which is...
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Wrigleyville peddlers balk at 'no-sell zone'
Expanding Wrigley no-sell zone would kill business, vendors say
Sidewalk peddlers who hawk peanuts, T-shirts and novelty items outside Wrigley Field reacted angrily Friday to an alderman's proposal to move them two blocks from the ballpark, saying that they not only add to game-day excitement but also need to earn a living.
Blagojevich urged SIU to let 2 into law school
Neither 2005 applicant was admitted, university says
Former Gov. Rod Blagojevich sent two letters of recommendation on behalf of applicants to Southern Illinois University's law school, the university said Friday after a search of its admissions records in response to a federal subpoena.
Michigan Amtrak cuts could affect Chicago
Chicago scrambles to boost tourism after a dip in 2008
City, businesses hope to reverse last year's dip
Snug in sweat shirts aboard the top floor of a double-decker bus, Ian Haskell pointed out to his sons the iconic images of the area he grew up in as their ride wrapped around downtown Chicago.
Edward H. Bennett: Daniel Burnham's stardom overshadowed essential co-author of 1909 Plan of Chicago
Edward Bennett helped keep their recommendations alive after Burnham's death
Architecture can be tough on second bananas. A case in point: Edward H. Bennett, the co-author with the legendary Daniel Burnham of the Plan of Chicago, the tome of soaring prose, dazzling renderings and profound influence whose 100th anniversary will be celebrated Saturday.
Chicago police say teen slain after Lawndale foot chase had aimed gun at officer
A Chicago police officer shot and killed a 16-year-old boy Thursday night when the teen pointed a handgun at an officer during a foot chase in the Lawndale neighborhood, authorities said. The teen was identified as Rakeem Nance of the 1900 block of South Troy Street, according to the Cook County medical examiner's office.
Giannoulias aide put kid on clout list for priest
Greek Orthodox leader who vouched for girl helped treasurer raise campaign cash
When a politically connected Greek Orthodox priest wanted help getting the daughter of a family friend into the University of Illinois, he reached out to a campaign adviser to state Treasurer Alexi Giannoulias.
9-year-old Englewood girl mourned | Photos
15-car smashup causes backup on Tri-State
After Arlington Heights home fire, family struggles with grief
Arlington Heights deaths hard to understand, explain
Everyone asks Jennifer Murphy-Cazares what she needs to help cope with her new reality: Raising her young nephew and niece after their parents and a brother were killed in a deliberately-set fire.
chicagotribune.com - Local news
Headlines from chicagotribune.com
Police say Taste peaceful, credit heavier presence
This year's Taste of Chicago July 3 fireworks spectacular transpired relatively peacefully, viewed by 1.25 million people and unmarred by the shootings that took place last year.
Sidestepping Madigan
Gov. Quinn is bypassing House Speaker Michael Madigan and other legislative leaders and appealing directly to lawmakers in hopes of getting his proposed income-tax increase approved. The governor spent two hours Friday -- a holiday for most state workers -- discussing the state's $9 billion deficit with state Sen. James Meeks, who backs the tax hike. Their meeting came one day after Quinn met with 27 female legislators.
Good news for Chicago as crime stats drop
Homicides in Chicago have dropped 12.7 percent, and crime overall has fallen 10.4 percent in the first six months of this year, according to preliminary statistics released Friday by Chicago Police.
Crook tally hits 2 million
In Cook County -- sometimes known as "Crook County'' -- we've just hit a dubious milestone.
Police: Boy shot after pointing gun at cops
Police fatally shot a 16-year-old boy who allegedly pointed a gun at officers chasing him through an alley after a Thursday night home invasion in the Lawndale neighborhood on the West Side.
Juvenile detention staffers face crackdown
Death threats, vandalism and unrest are expected to climb along with the mercury this summer at Cook County's juvenile detention center.
Cabbie disarms attacker with deodorant
Police in Elgin say a taxi driver who didn't have Mace handy when he was attacked by a knife-wielding passenger instead disarmed the man with a can of aerosol deodorant.
Quinn fires head of health board
Gov. Quinn has fired a high-ranking employee who oversaw a state board that is the gatekeeper for hospital and other health-care construction projects throughout Illinois.
Woman's $3 ATM fee ends up costing bank $90K
ATM fees typically are one of life's minor annoyances, but one Chicago area woman made a federal case over the three bucks she was charged using an Oak Forest cash machine in November 2007. Now, her class-action lawsuit could put cash -- as much as $1,000 apiece -- into the wallets of thousands of other people who used the same machine.
Mortgage lien kept in limbo for a spell
Dear Fixer: After paying off our mortgage with Fifth Third Bank, they issued a release of lien to the Lake County, Ind., recorder's office with the incorrect spelling of my husband's last name.
Jackson drug evidence
LOS ANGELES -- The powerful sedative Diprivan was found in Michael Jackson's home, a law enforcement official said Friday as the city planned for a massive crowd at the singer's memorial service.
The old is new again at Saturday Evening Post
If you're reading this online site, you likely have never heard of or paid attention to the old magazine The Saturday Evening Post. But the publishers are hoping that their recent makeover of the magazine — which returns it to its old-style roots — will provide readers like you the value of a quiet read in an increasingly frenetic digital age.
Love soars as economy dives
The recession has its downsides, sure: Layoffs. Shrunken IRAs and home values. "Staycations."
Investor sentiment shifts to tried and true -- cash
That old saying "cash is king" certainly rings true these days. Investors can't seem to get enough of it, which ultimately could be bad news for the stock market and the economy.
Freedom Rider returns
JACKSON, Miss. -- Corey Carter could hear snippets of music in his head -- a calm and subtle melody that hadn't found its shape. The 19-year-old college student simply needed a hero to visualize before he could finish his composition for wind ensemble.
Grandma drowns baby during swim lesson
SAN ANTONIO -- A Texas woman will serve at least nine years in prison for drowning her 3-month-old granddaughter in what the defense said was a misguided effort to teach the infant to swim. Gabriella Sigler was watching little Melody Sigler in 2005 when she allegedly put her in a friend's pool. She had told her son earlier that she was teaching Melody to swim like she had seen on a TV show about "water babies." AP
Can SEC prevent new Madoff?
Last week brought some closure to Bernard Madoff's victims, who were swindled out of $65 billion in the largest recorded financial fraud -- a scheme that was exposed in part because the plummeting stock market led investors to demand repayment of money that was long gone.
Biden prods Iraqis to work harder on settling differences
BAGHDAD -- Vice President Joe Biden pressed Iraqi leaders on Friday to do more to foster national reconciliation and offered U.S. assistance in achieving that, as concerns grow that a lack of political progress is fueling violence in Iraq.
Humans take on elephants in eating contest
NEW YORK -- It was pachyderms vs. people -- and the pachyderms had the upper trunk.
Colic in babies linked to depressed dads
Studies have suggested that babies might be more likely to have colic -- defined as crying three hours a day, at least three days a week -- if their mothers are depressed.
Venezuela to pull 240 radio station licenses
CARACAS, Venezuela -- The head of Venezuela's telecommunications regulatory agency said Friday that 240 radio stations will have their licenses revoked for failing to update their registrations with the government.
Marines fanning out
NAWA, Afghanistan -- U.S. Marines pushed deeper into Taliban areas of southern Afghanistan on Friday, seeking to cut insurgent supply lines and win over local elders on the second day of the biggest U.S. military operation here since the American-led invasion of 2001.
Iran to try Brits for fueling turmoil: cleric
A powerful cleric said Friday that Iran will put British Embassy staffers on trial for fomenting post-election turmoil, a step that would likely increase Iran's isolation and alienate Western nations that have been trying to keep options open with Tehran despite its crackdown on protesters.
Biden prods Iraqis to work harder on settling differences
BAGHDAD -- Vice President Joe Biden pressed Iraqi leaders on Friday to do more to foster national reconciliation and offered U.S. assistance in achieving that, as concerns grow that a lack of political progress is fueling violence in Iraq.
New CPS teachers need more mentoring, support
It's not really news that we are in a teacher-quality crisis. The issue in the Chicago Public Schools is not attracting teachers, but keeping them in the system, as the new Consortium on Chicago School Research study indicates.
Chicago Sun-Times :: News ::
News
Iran Demonstrators Fill Federal Plaza
Several dozen people demonstrated in Federal Plaza today - in support of democracy in Iran.
Actor Karl Malden dead at age 97, grew up in Gary
Academy Award-winner studied at the Goodman School Of Drama.
New Sears Tower sky ledges to open PHOTO GALLERY
Ready for the public tomorrow. Double dare you to look down.
FIREWORKS LIST FOR 4TH OF JULY CELEBRATIONS
Check out where and when you can see local fireworks shows!
Cop hurt when squad plows into West Side building
Parked car pulls out right in front of police vehicle.
Man set on fire in South Side home
A man who was set on fire and found dead at a South Side home Friday evening by fire crews has been identified.
Union bets $500 million on Olympic Village plan
A powerful union is betting big time on Mayor Daley's Olympic dream.
Two killed in Tri-State Tollway crash
Two people were killed in a head-on collision, causing a temporary shut down of all northbound traffic lanes on the Tri-State Tollway, Friday night near north suburban Wadsworth.
After last year's violence, city welcomes peaceful fireworks
This year's Taste of Chicago July 3 fireworks spectacular transpired relatively peacefully, viewed by 1.25 million people and unmarred by the shootings that took place last year.
SKorea: NKorea fires 3 missiles off east coast
North Korea fired three missiles off its eastern coast Saturday in what was likely to be seen as a message of defiance to the United States on its Independence Day holiday.
Breathalyzer-type gadget use doubles under new law
Several thousand Illinoisans won't be able to just hop in their cars and leave if they have one too many drinks at a Fourth of July party.
Illinois police promise holiday DUI patrols
Illinois State Police say they'll increase drunken driving patrols across the state over the Fourth of July holiday weekend.
Citizens warned about telemarketing fraud
Telemarketing calls asking for donations to a police organization not associated with any Illinois sheriff's departments, police say.
Colorado company offers banana coffins
Casket makers catering to natural burials have offered biodegradable coffins made of such materials as recycled newspapers or cardboard.
Homicide rate, overall crime down in June: police
The number of homicides in June saw a decrease of almost 13 percent compared to the same time last year according to statistics released Friday by Chicago Police.
Authorities seek Lincoln Park bank robber
Authorities are seeking a suspect who reportedly used a post-it note to announce a bank robbery Friday morning.
Fire official gets probation for scamming $193,000
A former Orland Park fire lieutenant falsely claimed he was on active duty in the military while he was actually overseas working for a private contractor.
15-car crash on Tri-State Tollway
A 15-car crash prompted up to an 8-mile traffic backup Friday morning on the Tri-State Tollway near north suburban Deerfield.
Independence Day closures
Independence Day falls on Saturday this year, making Friday the federal holiday. Here's how services will be affected:
Audit: FAA should address air controller fatigue
A 21-page report by the U.S. Department of Transportation criticizes the Federal Aviation Administration for not acting sooner.
DuPage prosecutor runs for Ill. AG
DuPage County State's Attorney Joseph Birkett is running for Illinois attorney general.
Veteran broadcaster Norman Pellegrini dead at 79
Veteran Chicago broadcaster Norman Pellegrini served as program director at fine arts station WFMT-FM 98.7 for more than 43 years.
Report: Giannoulias aide helped get teen in to UI
According to a published report, a campaign adviser to state Treasurer Alexi Giannoulias helped a politically connected applicant get in to the University of Illinois.
Different governor, but same gridlock at Capitol
Illinois got a new governor six months ago, but sometimes it seems little else has changed in state government.
Fireworks used to blow up portable toilet
A police Bomb and Arson unit is investigating a Thursday night incident in which fireworks were used to blow up a portable toilet at Diversey Harbor.
Cabbie uses deodorant to disarm would-be robber
Police say a cabdriver didn't have any Mace or pepper spray when he was attacked by a knife-wielding passenger, so he improvised.
Chicago offers extended holiday public transit
Chicago officials are offering extended public transportation options for the Independence Day holiday weekend.
Study ranks Ill. 4th for obese children
A national study puts Illinois among the top 10 states with the highest percentages of overweight or obese teenagers.
Chicago Park District offers grilling tips
The Chicago Park District is encouraging one Fourth of July tradition and discouraging another.
FBI searches for Chicago man
The FBI is searching for a 28-year-old Chicago man who's been convicted in a 2003 murder.
Former director banned from library
Board bans former director for harrassing library staff.
Freight train fatally strikes woman
A freight train fatally struck a woman early Friday in an unincorporated area near north suburban Gurnee.
Boys will not face charges for burning 9-year-old
Boys were playing with fire in a wooded area in Hammond, Ind., last month when incident allegedly occurred.
Plano mom charged with abducting daughter
Rheannon Jerman was found safe with her mother not long after an Amber Alert was issued.
London-bound plane diverted to O'Hare
The pilot reported a possible electrical problem on the aircraft.
Police shoot, kill teen after home invasion
Chicago Police fatally shot a 16-year-old boy who allegedly pointed a gun at officers chasing him following a Thursday night home invasion.
Protect yourself from a Ponzi scheme
The U.S. Marshals Service has taken possession of the $7 million Manhattan penthouse where financier Bernard Madoff and his wife lived.
12 hospitalized in connection with E. coli in beef
At least 12 people, two of them suffering kidney failure, have been hospitalized in connection with a possible E. coli outbreak in beef suspected of having sickened people in nine states, federal health officials said Wednesday.
Police: Conn. teens mishear sex screams, beat man
TORRINGTON, Conn. (AP) - Police say a group of Connecticut teenagers misunderstood a woman's screams during sex and stopped what they thought was an assault by beating the woman's companion.
Precautions urged to secure scaredy cat pets
Families visit prison from comfort of their homes
US Marines launch major offensive in Afghanistan
Airline uses naked crew in safety video SEE IT
Bare essentials of safety from Air New Zealand. VIDEO
Theft of 5,000 pounds of commercial-grade fireworks worries cops
Fear that powerful shells will end up being set off in backyards and local parks with possible fatal results.
New Sears Tower sky ledges open today
Ready for the public todahy. Double dare you to look down. PHOTO GALLERY
North Korea test-fires 2 short-range missiles
Already high tensions get worse.
Missing girl in Amber Alert is located
3-year-old girl and mother are found.
United Airlines computer problem affects O'Hare travelers
Passengers can't print boarding passes.
For born-again governor, love is a matter of faith
In soul-baring e-mail to Argentine mistress, South Carolina Gov. Mark Sanford quoted from Bible on nature of love.
Cutting funds for the developmentally disabled and mentally ill
A hearing is scheduled in U.S. District Court Wednesday on a lawsuit that seeks to halt threatened state spending cuts affecting dozens of agencies that serve the developmentally disabled and mentally ill.
Blackhawks Make Huge Free Agent Signing
In a stunning move Wednesday, the Chicago Blackhawks have landed one of the biggest free-agent scorers available
Eddy Curry's suburban mansion in foreclosure
The multi-million-dollar home of former Chicago Bulls player Eddy Curry in southwest suburban Burr Ridge is in foreclosure, according to a filing Monday in Cook County Circuit Court.
Quinn Slams Down Veto
Gov. Quinn vetoes stop-gap budget, leaving Ill. with no spending plan as fiscal year begins.
Lincoln Park Man Accused Of Rape At His Home
A Lincoln Park man was charged early Wednesday with the alleged rape of a woman at his home.
Investigators raid regional education office
Investigators from the Cook County State's Attorney's office raided the Suburban Cook County Regional Office of Education on Wednesday morning in connection with an ongoing investigation into Supt. Charles Flowers, the SouthtownStar is reporting.
Flight attendant arrested for rubbing teen's hand
A United Airlines flight attendant was arrested Tuesday after he allegedly rubbed the hand of a 16-year-old passenger and made inappropriate comments to the boy during a flight from Los Angeles to Chicago.
Veteran Chicago cop indicted for civil rights violation
A veteran Chicago Police officer has been indicted by federal authorities on a civil rights violation charge for allegedly injuring an arrestee in September 2007.
Blogger accused of threatening judges seeks bail
A New Jersey blogger charged with threatening three federal judges in Chicago is trying to get released on bail.
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Adoptive Parents Grateful For 'Safe Haven' Law
This beautiful baby girl is one of the more than 50 babies who have been saved under Illinois' "safe haven" law. Her parents talked to CBS 2's Mai Martinez about their baby's birth mother.
Sen. James Meeks Backs Quinn's Budget Decisions
It's no holiday for those battling over the state budget. Lawmakers are maneuvering to override the governor's budget veto, but Governor Pat Quinn is taking on a powerful new ally, State Senator James Meeks. CBS 2's Political Editor Mike Flannery reports.
Sad Day For 2 Families As Young Girls Laid To Rest
It was a somber day for two families, 30 miles apart, but facing the same sadness. Funerals were held Friday for 9-year-old Chastity Turner and 2-year-old Jada Justice. CBS 2's Mike Puccinelli reports on the final goodbyes to the young girls.
Free Fun This Holiday Weekend At The Taste
You want to celebrate the holiday, but you don't have a lot of cash? CBS 2's Mike Parker says you can still have a great time.
15-Car Pileup Snags Tri-State Tollway
A 15-car pileup backed up traffic for 8 miles on the Tri-State Tollway Friday morning, but no one involved in the accident was injured.
Police Shoot, Kill Teenage Home Invasion Suspect
A Chicago teenager is dead. The 16-year-old was shot in the back by police overnight, but officers say they had no choice. CBS 2's Suzanne Le Mignot reports.
Realtor, Civil Rights Activist Dempsey Travis Dies
Dempsey Travis, a stockyards worker's son who rose to become a real estate magnate, civil rights activist and jazz musician, has died at age 89.
Palin To Resign As Alaska Gov.
Alaska Gov. Sarah Palin says she will resign from office July 26. Her spokesman wouldn't say why Palin decided to step down, but the announcement stirred speculation that she would focus on a 2012 bid for the Republican nomination for president.
Crowds Flock To Grant Park For July 3 Fireworks
Crowds are flocking to Grant Park Friday night to take in the annual Independence Eve fireworks.
Man Holds Up Bank In Lincoln Park
Authorities are seeking a suspect who reportedly used a Post-It note to announce a bank robbery Friday morning in the Lincoln Park neighborhood.
Chicago news, weather, traffic - CBS 2 - WBBM
Chicago news, weather, traffic - CBS 2 - WBBM
Chicago news, weather, traffic - CBS 2 - WBBM
Chicago news, weather, traffic - CBS 2 - WBBM
Challenge Bogus Parking Tickets And Win
We all hate parking tickets. Close to three million are written in Chicago every year. CBS 2 Investigator Pam Zekman has been getting furious e-mails from viewers who say they got parking tickets they didn't deserve. So she started looking into bogus tickets and what she found out could make some parkers even madder.
Legislators Block Efforts To Stop Medicaid Fraud
Each year, $35 million of your tax dollars are wasted through Medicaid fraud. The money is supposed to be used for psychiatric services. CBS 2 Investigator Pam Zekman first exposed how companies psyched out the system. But tonight, surprisingly, lawmakers have blocked efforts to stop the abuses.
Lawsuit Claims Dahn Yoga Is A Cult And A Con
You sign up for a yoga class and then find yourself trapped in a cult. That's what 24 people say happened to them. They are now suing Dahn Yoga. This nationwide group makes millions and has 12 centers in the Chicago area that often target college students. As CBS 2 Investigator Pam Zekman reports ex-members are charging that Dahn Yoga is a cult and a con.
State Asks For Your Help Catching Meter Cheaters
We all hate feeding parking meters, but some people have figured out a way to park for free. They're using placards meant to help the disabled. But now, the state is cracking down on the problem. CBS 2 Investigator Dave Savini exposes the meter cheaters and how you can help stop them.
2 Investigators Expose Meter Cheaters
Parking in Chicago is driving everybody crazy. And CBS 2 found something else that will make you mad: able-bodied drivers using handicap placards to park for free. CBS 2 Investigator Dave Savini exposes the meter cheaters.
Nun Denies Causing Fatal Accident
A nun involved in a deadly crash is speaking out tonight for the first time. She was charged with running a red light -- then acquitted. 2 Investigator Dave Savini has her story about what happened and whether justice was served.
Nun Acquitted In Fatal Crash; Victims Speak Out
It was a case that sparked outrage. A nun involved in a deadly crash is found not guilty. Now the dead boy's mother and another victim are speaking out for the first time about whether they think justice was served. CBS 2 Investigator Dave Savini has their story and their concerns that the nun's job led to the deadly crash.
City's Downsizing Of Inspections Could Be Risky
Chicagoans could be facing a safety risk. The city is down 40 building inspectors, meaning fewer experts are keeping an eye on elevators, code violations, rat infestations and other dangers. Now, 2 Investigator Pam Zekman is reporting that the city has a new "master plan" to make up for the lost staff. But will it work?
City Slow To Pay Pothole Damages, If At All
Potholes are turning into a huge money pit. Claims from drivers whose cars were damaged by the holes are expected to be well over $2 million dollars this year. But as 2 Investigator Pam Zekman reports, if you're a driver with a damaged car, it's not so easy to get the city to pay up.
Neighbors Upset Over Giannoulias Brother's House
Imagine this: your neighbor is building a new home, but you end up having to move out of yours for six months. That's because your home now needs $1 million worth of repairs because of their project. As CBS 2 Investigator Pam Zekman reports, what's more, the construction is being done by one of Chicago's well-known family names.
Chicago news, weather, traffic - CBS 2 - WBBM
Chicago news, weather, traffic - CBS 2 - WBBM
Independence Day closures
Independence Day falls on Saturday this year, making Friday the federal holiday. Here's how services will be affected:
FIREWORKS LIST FOR 4TH OF JULY CELEBRATIONS
EMAIL US IF YOUR TOWN IS NOT LISTED (click here)
New Sears Tower sky ledges open today PHOTO GALLERY
Ready for the public todahy. Double dare you to look down. PHOTO GALLERY
Man set on fire in South Side home
A man who was set on fire and found dead at a South Side home Friday evening by fire crews has been identified.
Union bets $500 million on Olympic Village plan
A powerful union is betting big time on Mayor Daley's Olympic dream.
Two killed in Tri-State Tollway crash
Two people were killed in a head-on collision, causing a temporary shut down of all northbound traffic lanes on the Tri-State Tollway.
After last year's violence, city welcomes peaceful fireworks
This year's Taste of Chicago July 3 fireworks spectacular transpired relatively peacefully, viewed by 1.25 million people and unmarred by the shootings that took place last year.
Breathalyzer-type gadget use doubles under new law
Several thousand Illinoisans won't be able to just hop in their cars and leave if they have one too many drinks at a Fourth of July party.
Illinois police promise holiday DUI patrols
Illinois State Police say they'll increase drunken driving patrols across the state over the Fourth of July holiday weekend.
Citizens warned about telemarketing fraud
Telemarketing calls asking for donations to a police organization not associated with any Illinois sheriff's departments, police say.
Cops looking for porta-potty blower-up-er
Jul 3, 8:29 PM EDT
Port-a-potty explodes in Chicago lakefront park
CHICAGO (AP) -- Police say someone has used an explosive device to blow up a port-a-potty in a North Side Chicago lakefront park.
Chicago Police Officer John Mirabelli says no one was injured in the explosion early Friday morning and only the toilet was damaged. Officials say people in the area alerted police after
Homicide rate, overall crime down in June: police
The number of homicides in June saw a decrease of almost 13 percent compared to the same time last year according to statistics released Friday by Chicago Police.
Authorities seek Lincoln Park bank robber
Authorities are seeking a suspect who reportedly used a post-it note to announce a bank robbery Friday morning.
Fire official gets probation for scamming $193,000
A former Orland Park fire lieutenant falsely claimed he was on active duty in the military while he was actually overseas working for a private contractor.
15-car crash prompts 8-mile backup
A 15-car crash prompted up to an 8-mile traffic backup Friday morning on the Tri-State Tollway near north suburban Deerfield.
Audit: FAA should address air controller fatigue
A 21-page report by the U.S. Department of Transportation criticizes the Federal Aviation Administration for not acting sooner.
DuPage prosecutor runs for Ill. AG
DuPage County State's Attorney Joseph Birkett is running for Illinois attorney general.
Veteran broadcaster Norman Pellegrini dead at 79
Veteran Chicago broadcaster Norman Pellegrini served as program director at fine arts station WFMT-FM 98.7 for more than 43 years.
Report: Giannoulias aide helped get teen in to UI
According to a published report, a campaign adviser to state Treasurer Alexi Giannoulias helped a politically connected applicant get in to the University of Illinois.
Different governor, but same gridlock at Capitol
Illinois got a new governor six months ago, but sometimes it seems little else has changed in state government.
Bomb squad looking into Port-A-Potty incident
A police Bomb and Arson unit is investigating a Thursday night incident in which fireworks were used to blow up a portable toilet at Diversey Harbor.
Cabbie uses deodorant to disarm would-be robber
Police say a cabdriver didn't have any Mace or pepper spray when he was attacked by a knife-wielding passenger, so he improvised.
Chicago offers extended holiday public transit
Chicago officials are offering extended public transportation options for the Independence Day holiday weekend.
Study ranks Ill. 4th for obese children
A national study puts Illinois among the top 10 states with the highest percentages of overweight or obese teenagers.
Chicago Park District offers grilling tips
The Chicago Park District is encouraging one Fourth of July tradition and discouraging another.
FBI searches for Chicago man
The FBI is searching for a 28-year-old Chicago man who's been convicted in a 2003 murder.
Former director banned from library
Board bans former director for harrassing library staff.
Woman fatally struck by freight train
A freight train fatally struck a woman early Friday in an unincorporated area near north suburban Gurnee.
Boys will not face charges for burning 9-year-old
Boys were playing with fire in a wooded area in Hammond, Ind., last month when incident allegedly occurred.
Plano mom charged with abducting daughter
Rheannon Jerman was found safe with her mother not long after an Amber Alert was issued.
London-bound plane diverted to O'Hare
The pilot reported a possible electrical problem on the aircraft.
Police shoot, kill teen after home invasion
Chicago Police fatally shot a 16-year-old boy who allegedly pointed a gun at officers chasing him following a Thursday night home invasion.
Who is at fault: the naked swimmer or the watcher?
Having sex in pool or watching: Which is the crime?
Jul 2, 2009
(BUFFALO GROVE) A northwest suburban woman complained to police that her neighbor was swimming naked and having sex in his pool, while the neighbor complained about the woman invading his privacy.
On June 20, a resident of the 500 block of White Pine Road in Buffalo Grove called police about 5:30 a.m. to complain that two
Iran Demonstrators Fill Federal Plaza
Several dozen people demonstrated in Federal Plaza today - in support of democracy in Iran.
Bike paramedic resuscitates heart attack victim at Taste
Fire Department officials are calling an Arizona woman "very lucky" after she suffered a heart attack and was resuscitated by a bicycle-riding paramedic at the Taste of Chicago on Thursday afternoon.
Fireworks go off early, setting fire to suburban garage
A southwest suburban man arrested Wednesday after his stash of holiday fireworks accidentally went off, setting fire to his garage.
Protect yourself from a Ponzi scheme
The U.S. Marshals Service has taken possession of the $7 million Manhattan penthouse where financier Bernard Madoff and his wife lived.
Body of missing man found floating in NW suburban lake
The body of a northwest suburban man who was recently reported missing was found floating in a nearby lake Wednesday, authorities said.
Fireman gets probation after scamming $193,000 from district
A former southwest suburban fire lieutenant was sentenced to three years probation Thursday for bilking the department out of more than $190,000 by falsely claiming to be on military duty while actually working overseas as an independent contractor.
FBI calls for public help in catching killer
The FBI is seeking the public's help in looking for a former South Side man who has been on the run since being convicted of the 2003 fatal beating of a rival gang member.
DCFS investigating abduction of Plano toddler
The Illinois Department of Children and Family Services is investigating after Chicago Police found a woman and 3-year-old girl safe after the child was abducted in southwest suburban Plano on Wednesday.
Furstenau, Naperville settle civil rights suit
In a joint statement issued Wednesday afternoon, Councilman Richard Furstenau and the city announced each has signed an agreement settling a civil rights lawsuit the councilman brought against the city.
Flight diverted after passenger disrobes
A passenger stripped naked during a US Airways flight and resisted a flight attendant's efforts to cover him with a blanket before two off-duty law enforcement officers on board subdued and handcuffed him, authorities said Wednesday.
Police: Conn. teens mishear sex screams, beat man
TORRINGTON, Conn. (AP) - Police say a group of Connecticut teenagers misunderstood a woman's screams during sex and stopped what they thought was an assault by beating the woman's companion.
Judge won't halt BP refinery expansion
A federal judge says he won't halt BP Whiting's expansion or hear a national environmental group's appeal of the refinery's air permit.
Far South Side man charged after domestic stabbing
Charges have been filed after three males, including a child, were hospitalized with non-life-threatening stab wounds after a domestic incident at a West Pullman house Wednesday morning on the Far South Side.
Mail carrier faces sexual assault charges
A man who police said was a U.S. Postal Service mail carrier has been charged with a sexual assault that occurred on the South Side in 2006.
Walgreens walk-in clinics to test diabetes care
Precautions urged to secure scaredy cat pets
Quinn to talk budget with women lawmakers
Teen admits role in N. Ind. school bus vandalism
Families visit prison from comfort of their homes
Suspect shot by police during robbery gone bad
Actor Karl Malden dead at age 97, grew up in Gary
Academy Award-winner studied at the Goodman School Of Drama.
Cop hurt when squad plows into West Side building
Parked car pulls out right in front of police vehicle.
'Illegal' High-rise hotels
'Illegal' high-rise hotels targeted
Jul 2, 2009
How would you like to live in a high-rise condominium and pay hefty monthly assessments, only to have the building turned into an illegal hotel, with luggage-toting strangers streaming in and out?
That's what's happening at many downtown high-rises -- and Ald. Brendan Reilly (42nd) has had just about enough of it.
"A number of people
5,000 pounds of commercial-grade fireworks stolen
Fear that powerful shells will end up being set off in backyards and local parks with possible fatal results.
Missing girl in Amber Alert is located
3-year-old girl and mother are found.
United Airlines computer problem snarls travel
Passengers can't print boarding passes. Flights canceled, delayed. CHECK YOUR FLIGHT
CTA: Tell us what you think
CTA wants to know what you think of it
Jul 1, 2009
What do you think of your experiences with the CTA? For the next nine days you'll be able to tell the transit agency what's on your mind.
An online survey has been launched on the CTA's Web site, www.transitchicago.com, a release Wednesday from the CTA said. A series of questions on riders’ opinions of the CTA and experiences
Cutting funds for the developmentally disabled and mentally ill
A hearing is scheduled in U.S. District Court Wednesday on a lawsuit that seeks to halt threatened state spending cuts affecting dozens of agencies that serve the developmentally disabled and mentally ill.
Blind dog rescued from north suburban lake
Old Ralph was one waterlogged Labrador retriever after being the focus of one of the odder rescues by the Lake County Sheriff's Marine Patrol on Bluff Lake, where the old, blind dog was lost in the middle of the lake.
EPA tests show no tainted water in Crestwood well
Testing near south suburban Crestwood's tainted well found no health risk for residents, according to results released by the state EPA.
'Bulletproof Bandit' hits Skokie bank for second time PHOTOS
The "Bulletproof Bandit," a robber who has struck at least four times now at banks on the North Side and northern suburbs, has struck again.
Bond for Old Navy, Subway robbery suspect
Bond was set at $400,000 Wednesday for a Far South Side man charged with the April 13 armed robbery of an Old Navy clothing store on the Near North Side.
Feds: Chicago man passed funny money
A Chicago man who allegedly sold counterfeit $100 bills to a person cooperating with federal authorities is suspected of having sold more than $100,000 in bogus bills that have circulated nationwide.
Bond set in shooting of 9 yr-old
Bond was set at $1 million Wednesday for the man who was charged with shooting a 9-year-old boy walking with his family Friday night in the North Side Rogers Park neighborhood.
Blackhawks Make Huge Free Agent Signing
In a stunning move Wednesday, the Chicago Blackhawks have landed one of the biggest free-agent scorers available - winger Marian Hossa.
Eddy Curry's suburban mansion in foreclosure
The multi-million-dollar home of former Chicago Bulls player Eddy Curry in southwest suburban Burr Ridge is in foreclosure, according to a filing Monday in Cook County Circuit Court.
Quinn plans veto, won't say if budget is target
Gov. Pat Quinn plans to veto something, but he won't say what.
Lincoln Park Man Accused Of Rape At His Home
A Lincoln Park man was charged early Wednesday with the alleged rape of a woman at his home.
Chicago, employee unions near agreement
Leaders of Chicago's employee unions say they've nearly reached a two-year agreement with city officials that would save the jobs of more than 1,500 people who would've been laid off.
Investigators raid regional education office
Investigators from the Cook County State's Attorney's office raided the Suburban Cook County Regional Office of Education on Wednesday morning in connection with an ongoing investigation into Supt. Charles Flowers, the SouthtownStar is reporting.
Fatal north suburban accident ruled homicide
A Saturday crash in northwest suburban Deer Park which killed three men has been ruled a vehicular homicide after one driver's autopsy revealed a 0.228 blood-alcohol level, Lake County Coroner Richard Keller said Tuesday.
Flight attendant arrested for rubbing teen's hand
A United Airlines flight attendant was arrested Tuesday after he allegedly rubbed the hand of a 16-year-old passenger and made inappropriate comments to the boy during a flight from Los Angeles to Chicago.
Veteran Chicago cop indicted for civil rights violation
A veteran Chicago Police officer has been indicted by federal authorities on a civil rights violation charge for allegedly injuring an arrestee in September 2007.
Blogger accused of threatening judges seeks bail
A New Jersey blogger charged with threatening three federal judges in Chicago is trying to get released on bail.
New Sears Tower sky ledges to open
Ready for the public tomorrow. Double dare you to look down.
Federal security to patrol Metra trains
TSA teams may also include federal marshals and... dogs.
Ill. begins new budget year without new budget
Depp--and Chicago--star in 'Public Enemies'
Locations are the real deal. PLUS: UPDATED PHOTO GALLERIES -- Dillinger. Red Carpet. Movie scenes.
Hundreds of CPS employees laid off
550-plus lose jobs today in first round of cuts.
No joke, 6 teens face felony charges for senior prank
Slogans painted, locker contents strewn, toilet paper tossed inside and outside suburban school.
Person struck by Metra train on South Side
A person has been struck and reportedly killed by a Metra train on the South Side Tuesday afternoon.
Have You Seen This......Lizard?
A Libertyville family is trying to find the owners of a two-foot-long Savannah monitor lizard that's been hanging around the hot tub.
Gov. Quinn Vows To Veto 'Half-Baked' Ill. Budget
When the clock strikes midnight Tuesday night, the Illinois budget year will end without a new budget in sight, and Gov. Pat Quinn says he won't accept a "half-baked" temporary plan.
Oswego man convicted in Mother's Day shooting
A federal jury has found that a 33-year-old Oswego man did pull the trigger in a Mother's Day 2003 shooting, making him eligible for a life sentence.
Humboldt Park murder has connection to recent wrongful conviction award
The Saturday murder of a Berwyn man occurred inside a sport-utility vehicle registered to a man who was recently awarded a record $21 million by a federal jury after he spent 11 years in prison for a murder conviction that was later overturned.
Woman shot when gunfire erupts during street fight
A woman was shot and wounded during a street fight Monday night on the South Side.
Webio David Hernandez makes court appearance
Businessman and alleged Ponzi schemer David Hernandez appeared in a Downstate court Monday morning following his recent arrest on fraud charges.
Quinn presses for budget action
Gov. Quinn said Tuesday morning if eleventh hour budget negotiations with lawmakers fail to produce a budget he can pass, they should expect to go into "double overtime."
Man calls police to report his drugs were stolen
A man who was bound with duct tape and beaten during a home invasion early Tuesday in the Logan Square neighborhood on the Northwest Side complained to police that the attackers took his drugs.
Jada Justice Murder Suspect Tasered In Court
The northwest Indiana man accused of burning 2-year-old Jada Justice's dead body and encasing it in concrete was shot with a Taser before court on Monday morning.
Doctor fights off armed attacker in North Side office PHOTO
CHICAGO (STNG) - Belmont Area detectives are investigating Tuesday after a female doctor at Saint Joseph Hospital fought off an armed attacker Monday evening at her North Side office in the Lakeview neighborhood.
It's deadline day to get a state budget
IDOT to relieve some holiday traffic
Conservation police looking for drunk boaters
Science and Industry to show 'Potter' on Omnimax screen
Ringleader of allergy fraud operation gets 9 years
Gary plans Michael Jackson memorial service
Cops show off 'Fire Escape Burglar' stolen laptops
Man with Spidey skills allegedly was a real creature of habit.
State minimum wage notches up to $8 an hour
And... it'll be $8.25 next year.
Woman sought in 37-block road rage attack
Man run over by car, in critical condition.
Murder has connection to wrongful conviction award
Cat - nap suspect is charged with theft
Batavia cat-napper charged with theft: police
Jun 30, 2009
(BATAVIA) A 55-year-old Batavia woman has been charged with stealing her neighbor’s cat and possibly setting it free along a far west suburban roadside.
Brenda Scharlau has been charged with one count of theft, a Class A misdemeanor, according to a release Monday from the city of Batavia.
On June 9, Batavia police were
Eddy Curry's suburban mansion in foreclosure
Former Bulls star had a $3,719,316 mortgage on the place.
Suspected Bucktown Side rapist charged
Caught on surveillance camera. Cops say man was yanking his pants up when police responded.
City and states reputations taking a hit
The Inspector General says the reputations of Chicago and Illinois are costing residents embarrassment, higher taxes and waste.
Ill. House votes to borrow money amid budget mess
SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (AP) - The Illinois House wants to borrow $2.3 billion to help piece together a new state budget.
Critics say the move might help this year but it would just create a bigger hole in the next
Man gets rescued after being stuck on top of machine
A man who was reportedly stuck “on top of a machine” Monday afternoon at a Near South Side factory was down safely and refused medical attention.
Woman charged with kicking and biting cops
A woman was arrested early Monday after allegedly kicking and biting police officers responding to an assault in south suburban Ford Heights.
Ex-U of I official testifies before commission
CHICAGO (AP) - A former associate admissions director at the University of Illinois says the school's special system for admitting politically connected students should be discontinued.
Man gets 81 years in pizza delivery murder
ST. CHARLES, Ill. (AP) - A judge has sentenced a 31-year-old man to 81 years in prison for the 2006 death of a suburban Chicago pizza delivery woman.
Daley to ask feds for money to hire cops
CHICAGO (AP) - Mayor Richard Daley says Chicago will ask the federal government for $106 million so the police department can hire 400 officers.
Burris: Marriage for "perpetuation of the species"
Senator Roland Burris was at Chicago's Gay Pride Parade, declaring his support for civil unions but saying marriage is for "perpetuation of the species."
Meet The Real John Dillinger PHOTOS
The movie "Public Enemies" opens Wednesday, starring Johnny Depp as bank robber John Dillinger. Who was the real John Dillinger? PHOTO GALLERY
Electrical fire forces 10 people, 12 pets out of home
An electrical fire caused by a window air conditioning unit injured one person and forced 10 people and 12 pets outside of a Downers Grove bungalow early Sunday.
Valparaiso University cuts more than 50 jobs
Valparaiso University has cut about 50 jobs through early retirement packages and layoffs as it deals with the national recession.
Ex-boyfriend charged in '97 murder
Twelve years after he allegedly shot and killed his former girlfriend after she tried to leave him, a 42-year-old man has been charged with murder.
Gary man known as 'Batman' gunned down
Octavio Johnson, 22, a Gary, Ind. man also known by the nickname of "Batman," was gunned down early Saturday in front of a home there.
9 dead, several injured in weekend violence
Shootings claimed the lives of nine men in the city and two suburbs over the weekend. In other acts of violence a 9-year-old boy was wounded in a shooting Friday night, a woman was stabbed with a screwdriver by boyfriend and another woman was stabbed with a gardening tool also by her boyfriend.
Surprising number of teens think they'll die young
Court takes case over licensing of NFL apparel
Dillinger grave sees more visitors amid movie hype
The curious want to see famous bank robber's final resting place.
City code problems found at Daley nephew's warehouse
Man arrested for spraying Pride Parade crowd
Teacher turnover stresses Chicago schools
Typical Chicago public school loses more than half of its teachers within five years.
Bloody weekend: violence claims 9 lives
Man stabs girlfriend with gardening tool
A man with a history of domestic violence allegedly used branch cutter on woman.
Michael Jackson's spirit celebrated at Chicago church service - VIDEO
Hundreds of drivers get tickets for crosswalk violations
A crackdown on drivers who do not stop when people are trying to walk across the street.
Parishoners donate gold for crowns
Jun 29, 2009
15 pounds of gold donated for Catholic crowns
MELROSE PARK, Ill. (AP) -- Parishioners at a suburban Chicago Catholic church have donated 15 pounds of gold, which leaders at Our Lady of Mt. Carmel had melted into two 14-karat gold crowns worth $75,000.
Many parishioners at the parish in Melrose Park gave wedding bands, gold watches, bracelets and religious medallions. The
Deal to save Hartmarx
Union leaders to get details on $128 million buyout deal for President Obama's favored suitmaker today.
Seniors beware ripoff phone calls
Bogus calls from 'jail' ripping off North Shore seniors
Jun 29, 2009
(WILMETTE) It was shortly after noon when a 70-year-old Wilmette man received a call from a jail in Canada.
"Grandpa,'' the caller claimed, "this is your oldest, handsomest grandson.''
"Owen?'' the Wilmette man responded.
Yes, the caller said, he was Owen. Then the caller told an elaborate tale of
Teen in stolen Mercedes slams CTA bus
Several passengers taken to hospitals.
One dead, three hurt in Cicero gang fight: police
One man is dead and three other males were injured during a gang-related knife fight Sunday afternoon in west suburban Cicero.
'Filth' comment irks firefighters union
Jun 28, 6:31 PM EDT
Muncie mayor's `filth' comment offends union
MUNCIE, Ind. (AP) -- A firefighters union official says he's offended by comments by Muncie's mayor that firefighters left "filth" behind in a recently closed fire station.
Fire Union President Mike Whited says the firefighters did the best they could to clean up after themselves. He says Station 1 was built
Chicago church holds public memorial for Jackson
A Chicago church has held a public memorial for Michael Jackson with songs, prayers and a candlelight vigil.
Ill. politicians among thousands at Pride
Tens of thousands of people, including the state's top leaders, participated in and attended Chicago's Gay Pride Parade.
Hull-House Museum going organic
Jane Addams Hull-House Museum's food education program and soup kitchen getting boost from University of Illinois at Chicago organic garden.
Teacher drowns, 2 others OK after rafting accident
DeKalb first-grade teacher, mother of two, dies after raft sucked into "boil" at dam base.
Man shot by police in Englewood neighborhood
A 19-year-old man was shot by police Sunday morning on the South Side's Englewood neighborhood.
Boat capsizes, two people hanging on
A boat capsized on the Calumet River on the Southeast Side Sunday morning, prompting rescue crews to the scene, in an attempt to rescue two boaters.
DCFS investigating neglect in death of 7-month-old
The Illinois Department of Children and Family Services is investigating an allegation of neglect in the Saturday death of a 7-month-old Far South Side boy.
Obama aide: President has written Jackson family
A top White House adviser says President Barack Obama has written Michael Jackson's family.
Illinois diver dies in Lake Michigan
Authorities say a diver from Illinois died in deep water in the Wisconsin waters of Lake Michigan.
Doctor tells police about Jackson's final moments
The cardiologist who was with Michael Jackson during the pop star's final moments sat down with investigators for three hours to explain his actions.
Frugal readers drive up library circulation 30 percent
Here's a silver lining in the economic recession -- Chicago Public Library circulation has spiked 30 percent in the past year.
Daley: Taxpayers last to pay if Olympics loses cash
Mayor Daley said Saturday he wants a deal in which private insurance money would be tapped first.
Man arrested with gun at Taste checkpoint
Chicago police arrested a man who was carrying a fully-loaded handgun outside the Taste of Chicago.
Nearly a half-million expected at Gay Pride Parade
There are changes in store for the city's annual Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual and Transgender Pride Parade which will take place Sunday afternoon in the North Side's Lakeview neighborhood.
Child thrown from window following crash
A child was seriously injured after being thrown from a window following a two-vehicle crash Saturday nighton the Far South Side.
4-year-old dies following apparent Lake Michigan drowning incident
A 4-year-old girl died Saturday, three days after an apparent drowning incident in Lake Michigan, authorities said.
Court fight over Jackson's children looms
Given the secrecy surrounding Michael Jackson's children throughout his life, it's no surprise that there are lingering questions about who will care for them after his death.
Severe thunderstorm watch issued
The National Weather Service has issued a severe thunderstorm watch as a band of storms with damaging winds is expected to strike the Chicago area Saturday night.
Ill. derailment revives hazardous cargo debate
The derailment earlier this month highlights the struggle to prevent such disasters along the 140,000-mile U.S. rail network.
Chicago cops from 1968 convention hold reunion
There was no tear gas anywhere, and some of those who showed up for a reunion of Chicago Police officers who worked during the 1968 Democratic National Convention hung up their badges - and their billy clubs - a long time ago.
Jackson doctor hires law firm
William M. Stradley, a partner in the firm of Stradley, Chernoff & Alford, says his firm has been hired by Dr. Conrad Murray.
Suspended coach flip-flops on use of tobacco-quitting substance
Ron Czarnecki says he indeed used a smokeless tobacco substitute during games in the past couple of years, a day after saying he didn't.
Jesse Jackson: Family wants 2nd autopsy
The Rev. Jesse Jackson says Michael Jackson's family wants an independent autopsy following the pop star's sudden death.
Five men killed by gunfire overnight
Five men were fatally shot late Friday and early Saturday during an especially violent night throughout the city and suburbs.
Artist accused of inking minors
Man previously arrested for allegedly running a door-to-door underage tattooing service.
NBA star's shoes stolen, recovered in Oak Lawn
It's been a lively offseason for NBA superstar Dwyane Wade.
Family of Montgomery fire victim establishes fund
Relatives of the survivors of a fatal Montgomery fire have set up a fund to help them with medical and other expenses.
Three killed when cab, luxury car collide
Three men were killed and a third was hospitalized when a luxury car and cab collided head on in north suburban Kildeer.
Vote for Normal, not Boring
Jun 27, 2009
Toshiba pits Normal against Boring in ad plans
NORMAL, Ill. (AP) -- When Toshiba went looking for the everyday ways people use laptop computers for an advertising campaign, it decided to focus on two towns whose names scream run of the mill.
Normal, meet Boring.
Boring, Ore., that is.
Toshiba plans to film a handful of people in each city. Normal is in central
Police seek help in hit-and-run that killed boy
Chicago Police asking for public’s help in locating a vehicle that killed a 13-year-old boy in an April 3 hit-and-run crash.
Bond set for teen accused of 9-year-old's slaying
Bond was set at $750,000 Saturday for the teenager accused of fatally shooting a 9-year-old girl on the South Side.
UIC graduate student wins $60,000 fellowship
Akilah Watkins-Butler, a doctoral student in sociology, is one of 60 students nationwide to receive the award.
Mayor backs off funeral request
On Friday morning Mayor Rudy Clay was hoping to see Michael Jackson's funeral take place in his hometown. By Friday night, Clay had amended his request.
Naperville man survives fall off cliff
A Naperville man is reportedly home after surviving a 25-foot fall from a cliff in Starved Rock State Park.
Child shot in Rogers Park
A young child was shot in the Rogers Park neighborhood Friday night.
Michael Jackson's body given to family
The body of Michael Jackson, who died Thursday, has been released by the Los Angeles County coroner's office.
Jackson apparently had heart attack
LOS ANGELES (AP) -- Michael Jackson apparently suffered a heart attack, a person with knowledge of the situation told The Associated Press on Friday. Police planned to interview
Officer indicted in fatal hit-and-run crash
The Chicago Police officer charged with striking and killing a 13-year-old South Side boy in a May hit-and-run crash was indicted Friday.
10 Yr-Old And Two Others Die From Heat Stroke
An Indiana man and a 10-year-old girl have died of heat stroke, autopsies confirmed Friday afternoon. 10 Yr-Old And Two Others Die From Heat Stroke
Take your dog to dinner night
Carmichaels' Erie Cafe and Steakhouse in Chicago is hosting the take your dog to dinner night.
Dorothy Brown running for Cook County president
CHICAGO (AP) - Cook County Circuit Court Clerk Dorothy Brown wants to be county president.
Medics help woman give birth near Field Museum
Chicago Fire Department paramedics arrived just in time to deliver a child, a birth police said may have happened inside a car near the Field Museum on the Near South Side early Friday.
Mayor wants Michael Jackson buried in Gary
Gary, Ind., Mayor Rudy Clay wants Michael Jackson to be buried in his hometown. Clay also wants the funeral for the King of Pop to be held in Gary.
Riverdale rapper charged with ID theft at Gold Coast hotel
A south suburban rap artist has been arrested and charged with racking up thousands of dollars in charges on a credit card he wasn’t authorized to use at a Gold Coast neighborhood hotel.
Fatal West Side crash may have followed armed robbery
A boy is dead and four other people -- including two other boys -- remain hospitalized after a Jeep and a van fleeing an armed robbery collided early Friday in the Garfield Park neighborhood on the West Side.
Missing Aurora girls found safe
Two teenage girls who have been missing since June 18 have been found unharmed, police said Friday morning.
Family Of 5 Dies In Indiana Expressway Crash
A mother, father and their three children are dead after a crash with two semi trucks that shut down Interstate 65 in Northwest Indiana.
One dead, four hurt in West Side crash
A male juvenile is dead and four others injured in a crash early Friday in the West Side’s Garfield Park community, authorities said.
Ebony mag plans Jackson tribute
Rev. Jackson recalls memories of Michael Jackson
Critic: Jackson's 'Off the Wall' was best of phenomenal career
Bulls take two forwards
Bulls draft James Johnson of Wake Forest and Southern California's Taj Gibson.
Woman dies in road-rage incident
She's stabbed, then crashes in Broadview.
Fans pay tribute at Jackson's boyhood home
A sense of loss--and pride--in Gary, Ind. for a favorite son who put his hometown on the map as the birthplace of a music family sensation.
Man sentenced to 75 years in slaying of 11-year-old girl
A man was sentenced to 75 years in prison Thursday in the murder of an 11-year-old girl, killed by gunfire as she celebrated her birthday inside her aunt's home in Englewood three years ago.
Boy, 2, critically injured after being hit by car
A 2-year-old boy was critically injured Wednesday night when he was hit by a car in south suburban Glenwood.
Three injured in Richton Park collision
Three people were hospitalized following a two-vehicle crash Thursday afternoon in south suburban Richton Park.
Carnival worker sentenced to 29 years for murder
A west suburban carnival worker was sentenced to 29 years in prison Thursday for stabbing a 28-year-old man to death after the two got into an argument.
Security To Get Beefed Up At Taste
Chicago police have made a few changes at the Taste of Chicago this year.
Man taken down by police dog after alleged carjacking
A man was taken down by a police dog Thursday morning after allegedly carjacking a vehicle with a woman sleeping inside in south suburban Calumet City, then crashed it on the Far South Side.
At least 2 people injured in Englewood fire
At least two people have been injured in a fire in the Englewood neighborhood on the South Side.
Attorney pleads guilty to marijuana possession
An area attorney could face suspension of his law license after pleading guilty to marijuana possession.
Two Beverly fast-food restaurants robbed at gunpoint
Two fast-food restaurants in the Southwest Side’s Beverly community were hit by armed robbers in the same day.
East Chicago man faces burglary, rape charges
An East Chicago man has been charged with burglary, rape and criminal deviate conduct in Lake County, Ind.
Mom leaves baby on train
Hurried riders leave a lot of things on trains, but a north suburban woman left something really important -- her baby -- on Tuesday.
One hurt in Romeoville
An explosion, apparently caused when a contractor struck a gas main, destroyed a house and injured a woman Wednesday morning.
It's the heat AND the humidity GET HOT WEATHER SAFETY TIPS
9 students charged in brawl, kicked out of summer school
South Side's Rainbow Cone coming to the Loop
RTA to vote on big CTA budget cut
Entire CTA bus routes could get whacked.
Blogger who called for murder of Chicago judges arrested
White supremacist has a beef with federal judges for upholding handgun bans.
2 former top Blagojevich aides eye guilty pleas
The two men are charged along with the ousted governor in his corruption case.
Winds blow off dugout roof, injure assistant coach, student
Injuries in 4 vehicle crash that take out light pole, hydrant
Off-duty State Trooper hurt in a Northwest Side smashup.
Pink Line service restored after flooding on South Side
Did battalion chief sleep through fire?
CFD veteran misses a wee hours run. Department investigates.
School kids, parents to march in Gay Pride parade
A first for Chicago event. Parents, students from neighborhood elementary school to take part.
Bob Rohrman sues doc for stealing wife
Auto magnate known for "Bob Rohhhrman" ads says plastic surgeon stole away affections of his third wife.
9 year-old-girl dead in South Side drive-by
Girl was sitting on grandmother's porch. Three others injured.
*A WBBM Local Stories
Obama Presidential Inaugural
- Presidential Inaugural History
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- Obama's new Home was Slow to Integrate
- Memorable Speeches from Past Inaugurals
- America's Leading Man for the Dramas Ahead
- Don't Take that Oath, Barack
- Riding on the Wings of Change
- America in Shock
- Great Expectations
- Awaiting the Transformational Presidency
- Europeans Love 'Alabama'
- Is This the End of Black
- A New Way of Being on this Planet
- As Decider, True Obama will Become Clear
- Special Inaugural Crossword Puzzle
- Obama Not Only One Being Inaugurated
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