Daily Archive : Sunday August 5, 2012

News

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    Park City man, son accused of stomping on puppy
    By Lee Filas
    A Park City man and his son are charged with killing a puppy owned by a Racine woman over a $13 debt, police said. Fred Gossett, 49, of Park City, and Curtis Gossett, 22, of Racine, were charged with burglary and mistreatment of animals Tuesday, July 31, after they allegedly burst into the victim’s home and stomped on the 6-month-old beagle puppy’s head, killing it, authorities said.

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    Hoffman Estates is one of only seven communities in the Northwest suburban region collecting a civic contribution as part of the electric aggregation program. It could see up to $120,000 by year’s end and plans to use that money for sustainability projects.

    Some suburbs boost budgets with electric aggregation fees
    By Tara García Mathewson
    Out of more than 50 communities across the Northwest and West suburbans with electric aggregation programs, only seven decided to accept a "civic contribution" from their chosen provider, including West Dundee and Hoffman Estates. In communities like Mundelein that decided against accepting the civic contribution, officials point to their duty to save residents as much money as possible.

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    The lead pack of three halfway through the third stage of the Tour of Elk Grove.

    Weekend of racing closes with good weather, happy winners
    By Matt Arado
    Spectators at the Tour of Elk Grove on Sunday experienced near-perfect weather, a far cry from the heat and storms of the previous days. As a result, there was a festive atmosphere among fans, many of whom enjoyed the cycling event from chairs set up next to grills and coolers. Several rattled cowbells and cheered as the riders whizzed by.

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    Shane Lubecker, 16, of Algonquin performs with his yo-yo Sunday for the judges and fans at the Metropolis Performing Arts Centre in Arlington Heights.

    Five ‘Talent’ finalists try to wow judges one last time
    By Matt Arado
    The final five finalists of Suburban Chicago's Got Talent on Sunday performed one last time for the judges at the Metropolis Performing Arts Centre in Arlington Heights. The contest winner and "Fan Favorite" are to be revealed at the Taste of Arlington Heights on Saturday, Aug. 11.

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    Shane Lubecker, 16, of Algonquin performs with his yo-yo Sunday for the judges and fans at the Metropolis Performing Arts Centre in Arlington Heights.

    Five ‘Talent’ finalists try to wow judges one last time
    By Matt Arado
    The final five finalists of Suburban Chicago's Got Talent on Sunday performed one last time for the judges at the Metropolis Performing Arts Centre in Arlington Heights. The contest winner and "Fan Favorite" are to be revealed at the Taste of Arlington Heights on Saturday, Aug. 11.

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    The 6- to 12-year-old group gets their faces full of pie during the pie eating contest Sunday at the McHenry County Fair in Woodstock.

    Pie-eating contest closes out McHenry County Fair
    By Steve Zalusky
    You would think that a pie-eating contest would be as easy as, well, pie. But it's not so easy when you don't have the use of your hands. That's what several contestants discovered Sunday at the McHenry County Fair during a pie-eating contest sponsored by 4-H on the final day of the fair in Woodstock. There also was a demolition derby.

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    A man wipes away tears outside the Sikh temple in Oak Creek, Wis., after Sunday's shootings.

    Gunman kills 6 in Sikh temple attack in Wisconsin
    Associated Press
    As worshippers prayed and meditated at the Sikh Temple of Wisconsin on Sunday morning, the shooting started, sending terrified congregants scrambling for cover. When the gunfire finally ended in a shootout between a gunman and police outside the temple in suburban Milwaukee, seven people lay dead, including the suspect, and three others were critically wounded in what police called an act of...

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    Gunman kills 6 in Wisconsin temple
    Associated Press
    An unidentified gunman killed six people at a Sikh temple in suburban Milwaukee on Sunday in a rampage that left terrified congregants hiding in closets and others texting friends outside for help. The suspect was killed outside the temple in a shootout with police officers.

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    Dr. Robert Wise holds his Eagle Scout medal in Oakbrook Terrace. Wise, 59, is among several dozen former Eagle Scouts who are relinquishing their medals following the July 17 announcement that the Boy Scouts of America, after a confidential two-year review, was sticking with the divisive, long-standing policy of excluding openly gay youth and adults as members and leaders.

    As Eagle Scouts return medals, gay ban still firm
    Associated Press
    For the physician in Illinois, the attorney in Kentucky, the arts editor in Oregon, their Eagle Scout medals were treasured reminders of youthful achievement. Yet each is parting with his medal out of dismay over the Boy Scouts' recently reaffirmed policy of excluding gays.

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    Driver seriously injured on I-290 near Elk Grove Village
    Daily Herald report
    A man was seriously injured Sunday night when his car flipped over on I-290 near Elk Grove Village.

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    Racers are silhouetted by the morning sun as they compete in the swimming portion of the 2012 Naperville Sprint Triathlon at Centennial Beach Sunday.

    Naperville hosts its largest triathlon to date
    By Tara García Mathewson
    The Naperville Sprint Triathlon brought swimmers, bikers and runners to Centennial Park Sunday for a three-part race on a beautiful course with perfect weather. The swim portion of the race was 400 meters through Centennial Beach with a 22-kilometer bike route and 5-kilometer run rounding out the course. More than 2,100 people participated, making this year's race the largest yet.

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    Mike Prete of Harvard cleans up his 1998 Suzuki Intruder at the car, truck and bike show during North Aurora Days Sunday at Mooseheart. Prete, a plumber by trade, hand crafted the copper flames on the bike from discarded copper pipe.

    Car show returns to North Aurora Days
    By Tara García Mathewson
    Maryann Hupp and her husband own a 1969 Dodge Charger they take to car shows in the summertime. Years ago, the North Aurora couple could stay home for one show, until the event got scrapped from the North Aurora Days schedule. This year, though, it's back. The Car, Truck and Bike Show at Mooseheart was part of the final day of the three-day community festival, thanks to Hupp's organizing efforts...

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    Drew McCarthy, 9, of Antioch, rides Party with help from instructors Lindsey Weick and Marle Novacnik during the Annual Family Summerfest & Participant Horse Show Event Sunday hosted by Partners For Progress at their new Premier Equine Therapy Center in Wauconda. The program’s riders with special needs showcased their riding skills for family and friends.

    Children show off equine skills at therapeutic center’s horse show
    By Steve Zalusky
    On Sunday, Partners for Progress, a not-for-profit organization that provides equine therapy-based programs for individuals with disabilities, held its Annual Family Summerfest & Participant Horse Show Event in Wauconda.

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    Autopsy results of Des Plaines body pending toxicology
    Daily Herald report
    Results of an autopsy performed Sunday on the body of a man found in a Des Plaines parking lot are pending toxicology, which could take another 4-6 weeks, a Cook County Medical Examiner's office spokesman said. Authorities don't suspect foul play in the death of 47-year-old Wesley Jaworski, whose last known address is in unincorporated Des Plaines.

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    Fatal Streamwood crash under investigation
    Daily Herald staff
    Streamwood police continue to investigate a fatal crash that occurred on Saturday at Route 20 and Park Avenue. The Cook County Medical Examiner's office identified the victim as 66-year-old Linda Reinert of Bartlett.

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    Francois Parisien of Team Spyder celebrates by drinking some champagne after winning the overall title in the Alexian Brothers Tour of Elk Grove Union Cycliste Internationale

    Images: Sunday at the Tour of Elk Grove
    Images from the Alexian Brothers Tour of Elk Grove bicycle race on Sunday. Jade Wilcoxson won the overall title in the McDonald's Pro Women Circuit Race and Francois Parisien won the overall Gullo International Pro Men Circuit Race.

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    Balwant Singh Hansra, a member of the Gurudawara Sikh Religious Society in Palatine, discusses the shooting at a Sikh temple near Milwaukee Sunday.

    Local Sikh temples concerned for worshipers’ safety
    By Jamie Sotonoff and Kimberly Pohl
    Hours after Sunday services and activities had ended, the leadership of the Sikh Religious Society Temple in Palatine stayed behind to mull some difficult decisions about security. Frustrated with the lack of information about the identifies of the victims they may know, they turned off the continuous news coverage, passed out warm tea and discussed how to react to the Sunday morning shootings at...

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    Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid has accused Republican presidential candidate, former Gov. Mitt Romney of not having paid any income taxes over a 10-year period. Romney’s Republican backers call Reid a liar on Sunday.

    Republicans slam Sen. Reid over Romney tax claim
    Associated Press
    Top Republicans on Sunday accused Senate Democratic leader Harry Reid of lying by passing along an anonymous claim that GOP presidential candidate Mitt Romney hasn't paid taxes for 10 years.

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    Republican presidential candidate, former Massachusetts Gov. Mitt Romney said the Federal Reserve should refrain from a third round of large-scale asset purchases.

    Romney wants ‘something dramatic’ to aid economy
    Associated Press
    Mitt Romney is calling for "something dramatic" to help the economy recover, but he's not saying exactly what.

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    Crowds cheer as they watch Great Britain’s Jessica Ennis win gold in the women’s heptathlon on the big screen in the Olympic Park on Saturday.

    Britain awakes to an unfamiliar sensation: winning
    Associated Press
    Britain awoke, afraid it might all have been a dream. It wasn't: Six gold medals, including three in track and field within the space of an hour Saturday night, had given the country its best day at an Olympic Games since 1908. A country accustomed to sporting disappointment could scarcely contain its disbelief.

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    Swimmer Michael Phelps acknowledges fans after winning a gold medal in the men’s 4 X 100-meter medley relay Saturday.

    Phelps spends first day as a retired Olympic athlete
    Associated Press
    Michael Phelps can start sleeping later now. Heck, he can do whatever he wants. At 27, he ended his swimming career in London as the most decorated Olympian ever with 18 golds — twice as many as anyone else — and 22 medals overall.

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    U.S. Sen. Mark Kirk’s office has released a second video of the Highland Park Republican, as he recovers from a stroke.

    Kirk releases second recovery video
    By Kerry Lester
    U.S. Sen. Mark Kirk released his second video update after suffering a stroke in late January. Kirk, in the YouTube video, calls the progress he is making as "very encouraging." The former 10th District Republican congressman, in recent weeks, has been walking more on his own and receiving visits from political leaders at his Highland Park home.

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    Paddle on Sterling Lake in forest preserve event
    Daily Herald Report
    You can take a nighttime paddleboat ride on Van Patten Woods' Sterling Lake in a special program being offered Aug. 29 by the Lake County Forest Preserve District.

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    Island Lake blog relaunched
    Daily Herald report
    A controversial blog created — and then ended — by Island Lake Trustee Laurie Rabattini has been relaunched by a new writer. A former part-time Island Lake police officer named Wayne Schnell now is at the helm of www.theblog1.com. Schnell was an officer in town from 2006 to 2010 and has been an outspoken critic of Police Chief William McCorkle. During its first incarnation, the blog...

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    CLC art exhibit deadline near
    Daily Herald Report
    The deadline to submit entry forms for the College of Lake County's Recent Works 2012 exhibit is 3 p.m. Friday, Sept. 7. A total of $2,000 in cash prizes and purchase awards will be given to artists selected for the 32nd Annual Juried Exhibit for Lake County Artists at the Robert T. Wright Community Gallery of Art at CLC in Grayslake.

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    Gene Meyer of Marengo signals a bid to the auctioneer at the 4-H Livestock Auction and Sale of Champions at the McHenry County Fair in Woodstock Saturday.

    Images: 2012 McHenry County Fair Weekend
    Images of the McHenry County Fair in Woodstock, including 4-H Livestock Auction and Sale of Champions, Demolition Derby and the pie eating contest.

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    This 2011 photo provided by Martin Cizmar shows him in Scottsdale, Ariz. Cizmar, 31, arts and culture editor of Willamette Week, an alternative newspaper in Portland, Ore., is one of several dozen former Eagle Scouts who has returned his medal out of dismay over the Boy Scouts’ recently reaffirmed policy of excluding gays.

    Report: Boy Scout files reveal repeat child abuse
    Associated Press
    Internal documents from the Boy Scouts of America reveal more than 125 cases in which men suspected of molestation allegedly continued to abuse Scouts, despite a blacklist meant to protect boys from sexual predators.

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    Chicago police arrest suspect in attacks on women
    Associated Press
    Chicago police say they've arrested a man suspected in a string of armed robberies and attacks on at least 10 women over the past month. Vidal Rainey, 23, of Cicero was ordered held without bond.

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    Minor injuries in knife fight near Lollapalooza
    Associated Press
    Chicago police said two men suffered knife injuries during an argument outside of Lollapalooza. The men had been at the music festival earlier Saturday evening and were arguing. The men in their late twenties suffered minor cuts around 11:20 p.m.

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    This pre-1913 file photo shows the Hetch Hetchy Valley in Yosemite National Park, Calif. This fall San Franciscans will vote on a local measure with national implications: It could return to the American people a flooded gorge described as the twin of breathtaking Yosemite Valley. Voters will decide whether to drain a 117-billion-gallon Hetch Hetchy reservoir in Yosemite National Park, exposing for the first time in 80 years a glacially carved, granite-ringed valley of towering waterfalls 17 miles north of its more famous sibling.

    San Franciscans to vote on draining reservoir near Yosemite
    Associated Press
    This fall San Franciscans will vote on a local measure with national implications: It could return to the American people a flooded gorge described as the twin of breathtaking Yosemite Valley. Voters will decide whether they want a plan for draining the 117-billion-gallon Hetch Hetchy reservoir in Yosemite National Park, exposing for the first time in 80 years a glacially carved, granite-ringed...

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    A boy and a dog enjoy Riley’s Run Dog Park in Bartlett. The site will host the rescheduled Woofstock on Aug. 16. Organizers of the Bartlett Park District event postponed it from its original July 25 date because of extreme heat that day.

    Bartlett ‘Woofstock’ rescheduled
    By Jessica Cilella
    The Bartlett Park District's annual Woofstock event has been rescheduled for Thursday, Aug. 16, after a cancellation last month due to extreme heat. All canines and their owners are welcome to Riley's Run Park, 650 Lambert Lane, from 5 to 8 p.m. to enjoy games, contests and dog-friendly vendors.

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    Afghan National Army soldiers line up outside the canteen for dinner May 15 at the 203 Thunder Corps base in Gardez, Afghanistan. Come 2014, when foreign armies leave Afghanistan, the nation’s defenses will depend on a force being molded from recruits with limited education, many of whom complain of feeling underarmed, undertrained and up against an elusive enemy. There are fears the new army will quickly revert to a collection of militias led by warlords. The Taliban, meanwhile, has planted the notion that it’s an alien force, like the U.S. and NATO armies that built it.

    Afghan army in poor shape for U.S. departure
    Associated Press
    Among the huge challenges it faces in taking over from the departing U.S. and NATO armies, Afghanistan's new army is up against the myth that its troops aren't Muslims. "Until they see us praying, they think that we are like the foreigners — infidels," a battalion commander said. The Afghan army faces many challenges for when Western forces leave in 2014: Soldiers lack training and...

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    This is the Old Grand Avenue site where Heroes of Freedom Memorial Park would be built in Gurnee if a lawsuit settlement proposal gains village board approval Monday night. Nine flags representing every military branch and lights used to be on the property.

    Gurnee Heroes of Freedom Memorial Park controversy may be near end
    By Bob Susnjara
    Gurnee village trustees may end a nearly three-year controversy Monday when they address whether to accept a lawsuit settlement that would require construction of a memorial to troops who died in Afghanistan and Iraq. "When voting to approve or reject the proposed settlement, each trustee will have to decide if the settlement proposal is in the best interest of the village," Village Attorney...

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    Ruins that scholars think may be from the legendary Arab Christian city of Hira are just a few hundred yards from the runway of the airport in the holy Shiite Muslim city of Najaf, about 100 miles south of Baghdad. The site’s discovery in 2007 and its subsequent neglect are symbolic of a Christianity that has long enriched this country and is now in decline as hundreds of thousands have fled the violence that followed the U.S.-led invasion in 2003.

    Iraq’s lost Christian city offers hope to some
    Associated Press
    A hundred meters or so from taxiing airliners, Iraqi archaeologist Ali al-Fatli is showing a visitor around the delicately carved remains of a church that may date back some 1,700 years to early Christianity. "It shows we can live together in peace with Muslims — because we did for centuries before," a Christian member of Iraq's parliament said. "When Islam first came to Iraq, the...

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    Tony Reyes

    Winfield cop report doesn’t settle debate
    By Robert Sanchez
    The ongoing debate about the future of the Winfield Police Department hasn't been quelled by the release of a consultant's report. "The debate won't rest until a decision is made," village Trustee Tony Reyes said. "And the people are going to debate both sides until the bitter end."

Sports

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    Bears’ coach Smith wants Urlacher to take his time
    By Bob LeGere
    Middle linebacker Brian Urlacher was held out of practice Sunday for the fourth straight day. "His knee is still a little sore," said Bears coach Lovie Smith "Hopefully, we'll be able to get him back out here before long. But we'll take our time with Brian."

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    Columbus Crew midfielder Kirk Urso (15) handles the ball against the Montreal Impact for the opening game of the season at Crew Stadium in Columbus on March 24. Urso died Sunday after he was found unconscious in a bar.

    New details emerging from Lombard soccer star's death
    By Orrin Schwarz
    While the suburban soccer community continues to mourn the death of Lombard native Kirk Urso, a 22-year-old midfielder with the Columbus Crew, a few details have emerged regarding his death, and an autopsy is scheduled for today.

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    A.J. Pierzynski watches the flight of his 2-run, pinch-hit home run Sunday to put the White Sox in front. Pierzynski has hit a home run in five consecutive games.

    White Sox doing some serious winning
    By Scot Gregor
    The White Sox kept rolling along Sunday, beating the Angels 4-2 at U.S. Cellular Field. The Sox are solid in every phase of the game, and they figure to make a strong push for the playoffs if they continue to get good pitching and defense while hiting with impressive power.

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    The men’s top finishers in the 2012 Tour of Elk Grove include, from left, Brad Huff (fifth), Andy Jacques-Maynes (third) and Francois Parisien (first).

    Canadian racer wins seventh Tour of Elk Grove
    By Kimberly Pohl
    After three days, five hours of racing and more than 100 cyclists covering 172 miles, one second is all that separated the winner of the seventh Alexian Brothers Tour of Elk Grove from the rest of the pack. Canadian Francois Parisien, a member of Team Spidertech, won the Men's Pro Race overall individual title in 5:02:30. Runner-up John Murphy finished one second slower, with fellow American Andy Jacques-Maynes finishing eight seconds behind the leader to take the final spot on the champagne-covered podium.

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    A.J. Pierzynski, right, celebrates with Jordan Danks after hitting a 2-run home run against the Los Angeles Angels during the seventh inning Sunday at U.S. Cellular Field.

    Pierzynski means so much to the White Sox
    By Mike Imrem
    White Sox management should reward A.J. Pierzynski with a lucrative new contract, and not just because of his increased home-run power.

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    Wide receiver Devin Thomas took the Bears by surprise Sunday by deciding it was time to retire.

    Thomas walks away from Bears, NFL
    By Bob LeGere
    Wide receiver Devin Thomas left the Bears on Sunday morning and has decided to retire from the NFL. "He's not with us anymore," Bears coach Lovie Smith said after Sunday afternoon's practice. "Decided he didn't want to play anymore football." The four-year veteran signed a one-year, $700,000 contract with the Bears in the off-season and was expected to provide depth in the return game and on other special teams in addition to challenging for a backup spot at wide receiver.

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    White Sox pitcher Chris Sale is expected to return to the lineup Monday against the Kansas City Royals.

    White Sox’ Sale returns to mound to face Royals
    By Scot Gregor
    After a nine-day layoff, Chris Sale returns to the mound Monday night for the White Sox. Sale said his arm feels fine, and he is hoping the extended rest results in increased velocity.

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    White Sox scouting report
    White Sox vs. Kansas City Royals at U.S. Cellular FieldTV: WCIU Monday; Comcast SportsNet Tuesday and Wednesday.Radio: WSCR 670-AMPitching matchups: The White Sox’ Chris Sale (12-3) vs. Luis Mendoza (5-7) Monday; Jake Peavy (9-7) vs. Bruce Chen (7-9) Tuesday; Jose Quintana (4-1) vs. Jeremy Guthrie (0-2) Wednesday. All games 7:10 p.m.At a glance: The White Sox continue their nine-game homestand with three against the Royals. They are 3-3 vs. Kansas City this season (1-2 at the Cell). The Sox have won 12 of their last 14 home games. Sale makes his first start since July 27, when he won at Texas after allowing 5 runs on 6 hits in 6 innings. Sale’s velocity was way down against the Rangers, which led to an extended break. The left-hander is 4-0 with a 0.69 ERA in his last 5 starts at the Cell. A.J. Pierzynski, who has homered in five straight games, is a lifetime 4-for-12 with 1 home run and 5 RBI vs. Mendoza. Kevin Youkilis is hitting .425 (17-for-40) with 5 home runs, 15 RBI and 14 runs scored in 12 home games since coming over from Boston in a June 24 trade. Addison Reed is 7-for-7 in save opportunities at the Cell. Next: Oakland Athletics, Friday-Sunday at U.S. Cellular Field— Scot Gregor

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    Slammers bash Boomers 11-5
    Special to the Daily Herald
    The Schaumburg Boomers jumped out to an early 3-1 lead Sunday but dropped their third straight to the defending champion Joliet Slammers 11-5.

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    Los Angeles Dodgers slugger Hanley Ramirez, bottom, is mobbed by teammates including, from left to right, Clayton Kershaw, Kenley Jansen and Andre Ethier after he knocked in the game-winning run Sunday against the Cubs at Dodgers Stadium.

    Dodgers sweep Cubs, spoil Jackson’s debut
    Associated Press
    Hanley Ramirez lined an RBI single over a drawn-in infield in the ninth inning, and Los Angeles Dodgers completed a three-game sweep of the Chicago Cubs with a seesaw 7-6 victory on Sunday. Alfonso Soriano put the Cubs ahead 5-4 in the seventh with a two-run single.

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    Cougars rally to pop Kernels
    Special to the Daily Herald
    The Kane County Cougars engineered a 4-run rally in the bottom of the ninth inning to stun the Cedar Rapids Kernels 5-4 on Sunday at Fifth Third Bank Ballpark in Geneva.

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    Cubs scouting report
    Cubs scouting report

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    Jamaica’s Usain Bolt, right, wins the men’s 100-meter final Sunday at Olympic Stadium in London.

    Usain Bolt dashes to victory
    Bloomberg News
    Usain Bolt defeated the fastest field in Olympic history Sunday to defend his 100-meter title at the London games. Bolt crossed the line in an Olympic record time of 9.63 seconds, beating Jamaican compatriot Yohan Blake and American Justin Gatlin. Bolt becomes the second man after American Carl Lewis to defend the sprint title. Jamaica's Shelley-Ann Fraser-Pryce retained her 100-meter title last night.

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    White Sox catcher A.J. Pierzynski watches his two-run home run fly Sunday as Los Angeles Angels catcher Bobby Wilson looks on at U.S. Cellular Field.

    Pierzynski’s homer puts Sox up for good
    Associated Press
    Pinch-hitter A.J. Pierzynski tied a White Sox record by homering in his fifth consecutive game, a go-ahead, two-run drive in the seventh inning off Jason Isringhausen that led Chicago over the Los Angeles Angels 4-2 Sunday. With the Angels ahead 2-1, Isringhausen (3-2) relieved Dan Haren and allowed a leadoff single to Dayan Viciedo. Pierzynski hit for Tyler Flowers and hit a drive just out of the reach of a leaping Mike Trout in right-center field, Pierzynski's career-high 21st homer.

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    Andy Murray of Great Britain poses with his gold and silver medals Sunday at the All England Lawn Tennis Club in Wimbledon, London at the 2012 Summer Olympics.

    Murray tops Federer for tennis gold
    Associated Press
    Andy Murray clinched a gold for the home team Sunday by beating Federer 6-2, 6-1, 6-4 in the tennis final at Wimbledon. The victory marked a career breakthrough for Murray. He has lost all four of his Grand Slam finals, three against Federer, including Wimbledon, a month ago.

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    The Cubs’ Jeff Baker walks away after striking out in Saturday’s game against the Dodgers.

    Cubs trade Baker to Tigers
    Associated Press
    The Detroit Tigers have acquired Jeff Baker from the Chicago Cubs for two minor leaguers to be named later. Baker, who has played first base, second base and in the outfield this year, hit .269 in 54 games for the Cubs.

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    Bears wide receiver Devin Thomas retires
    Associated Press
    Chicago Bears wide receiver Devin Thomas has retired. Thomas left the Bears on Sunday and later announced his retirement. The former Washington Redskins and New York Giants player offered no immediate explanation, saying on Twitter, "I have decided to retire from the NFL."

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    U.S. gymnast McKayla Maroney botches her dismount during women’s vault final Sunday in London.

    Maroney falls, Izbasa wins gold on vault
    By NANCY ARMOUR AP National Writer
    McKayla Maroney's feet skidded out from under her and a look of shock crossed her face. The Olympic gold medal that everyone was certain was hers was gone. The world champion's rare mistake opened the door for Romania's Sandra Izbasa and she took advantage of it Sunday, winning the title on vault.

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    Americans Venus Williams, left, and Serena Williams celebrate their victory against Andrea Hlavackova and Lucie Hradecka of the Czech Republic in the Olympic gold medal women’s doubles match Sunday at Wimbledon.

    Williams sisters defend Olympic doubles gold
    Associated Press
    Serena Williams teamed with big sister Venus to win the women's doubles title at the Olympics on Sunday, adding to the singles gold she won on Centre Court at Wimbledon a day earlier. The American sisters beat Andrea Hlavackova and Lucie Hradecka of the Czech Republic 6-4, 6-4 under the roof on a rainy afternoon at the All England Club.

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    Christina Loukas competes Saturday during the women’s 3-meter springboard diving semifinal at the Aquatics Centre in the Olympic Park.

    Jager goes for gold today, Grevers wins gold Saturday
    Coming up todayŸ Evan Jager, Jacobs High School, goes for gold in the 3,000-meter steeplechase. On TV: 11:35 p.m.-12:35 a.m. tape delay, NBC.Ÿ U.S. women’s water polo team (Melissa Seidemann, Hoffman Estates) plays quarterfinal match vs. Italy. On TV: 1-2 p.m. Live, NBC.Ÿ U.S. women’s basketball team takes on China in final prelim round game. Watch for Tamika Catchings, (Stevenson), Candace Parker (Naperville Central), and two Chicago Sky players, Swin Cash and Sylvia Fowles. On TV: 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. live, NBC Sports NetworkŸ Diver Christine Loukas, Riverwoods, advanced to today’s finals of 3-meter springboard, finishing in sixth in the semifinals on Saturday. On TV: 6-11 p.m. tape delay, NBC.Results from SaturdayŸ Matt Grevers of Lake Forest helped the U.S. men’s 4x100-meter medley relay team capture gold. Grevers swam the opening leg of the relay. Michael Phelps was part of the team, winning his 22nd Olympic medal.Ÿ U.S. men’s volleyball (Sean Rooney, Wheaton) lost to Russia 3-2. Tunisia on Tuesday.Ÿ Nigerian men’s basketball team lost 93-79 to Argentina. Richard Oruche (Bensenville) scored 7 points. Next up: Nigeria vs. France, Monday.Ÿ Lake Forest pole vaulter Jillian Schwartz, competing for Israel, missed the finals of the women’s pole vault, finishing 18th.

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    Cubs center fielder Joe Mather, left, and right fielder Jeff Baker can’t reach a home run by the Los Angeles Dodgers’ Matt Kemp Saturday during the fourth inning.

    Mather can't hang on, Cubs lose to Dodgers 3-1
    Associated Press
    Joe Mather was playing at Dodger Stadium for the first time in his career, and his timing couldn't have been worse — in more ways than one. The center fielder went back on Matt Kemp's high fly ball in the fourth inning and attempted a leaping catch at the top of the 8-foot fence, but the ball deflected off his glove for a two-run homer. "I didn't think it was going to go that far with the swing he took, but it ended up carrying and got out of the yard," Mather said.

Business

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    The U.S. Justice Department is investigating whether Las Vegas Sands Corp., owned by high-profile Republican donor Sheldon Adelson, above, broke federal law by failing to report millions of dollars of potentially laundered money transferred to its casinos by two high-rolling Las Vegas gamblers, according to the Wall Street Journal.

    Report: Feds probe money transfers at Sands casino
    Associated Press
    The U.S. Justice Department is investigating whether Las Vegas Sands Corp., owned by high-profile Republican donor Sheldon Adelson, broke federal law by failing to report millions of dollars of potentially laundered money transferred to its casinos by two high-rolling Las Vegas gamblers, according to the Wall Street Journal.

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    The Ugland House, the registered office for thousands of global companies, stands in George Town on Grand Cayman Island. The Cayman Islands have lost some of their allure by abruptly proposing what amounts to an income tax on expatriate workers.

    Planned expat fee is talk of the Cayman tax haven
    Associated Press
    The Cayman Islands have lost some of their allure by proposing what amounts to the territory's first ever income tax. And it would fall only on expatriate workers who have helped build the territory into one of the most famous or, for some, notorious offshore banking centers.

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    The rating agency Standard & Poor’s stunned the world a year ago by stripping the U.S. government of its prized AAA bond rating. A year later, S&P’s historic move looks like a non-event.

    A year later, S&P downgrade of US looks like a dud
    Associated Press
    The rating agency Standard & Poor's stunned the world a year ago by stripping the U.S. government of its prized AAA bond rating. A year later, S&P's historic move looks like a non-event.

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    Rail workers protest against the government’s privatization plans at Sants railway station in Barcelona, Spain, Friday. The strike, which coincides with the departure of many for the summer holidays, is organized by employees of Renfe and Adif, the two public railway companies.

    Spain to soon create ‘bad bank’ for toxic assets
    Associated Press
    Spain's economy minister says the government is set to approve a new law creating an asset management agency, or "bad bank," to deal with the toxic assets that have led many Spanish banks to seek an EU bailout.

  •  
    Donald Taylor, lead portfolio manager of the Franklin Rising Dividends Fund. Taylor’s mutual fund takes a patient approach, investing in stocks that have increased their dividends at least eight of the last 10 years, and rarely trading those stocks. Two stocks have remained in the portfolio since Taylor began managing it in 1996.

    Fund manager: Investors would be wise to go slowly
    Associated Press
    In an era when high-frequency traders exploit split-second stock price movements, Don Taylor sounds like a throwback to a different time. The manager of the highly rated Franklin Rising Dividends mutual fund talks about stock-picking almost like someone evaluating a potential spouse. "We're trying to find good companies, and sticking with them," Taylor says, "unless they get too expensive."

  •  
    The Omni Dallas Hotel is one of a number of hotels that features unusual art in the rooms and allows guests the option of purchasing the work to take home. For several years, hotels have invited local artists in to decorate hallways, lobbies and other public spaces. It’s a way they can distinguish themselves from the cookie-cutter chains and offer guests a sense of their unique city or town. Now, they are taking that partnership one step further and turning bedrooms into mini-salesrooms.

    Buy your next vacation souvenir in your hotel room
    Associated Press
    Hotel rooms are no longer just a place to shower, sleep or maybe indulge in a breakfast in bed. They're now also spots to pick up a souvenir — and no, we aren't talking about stealing the towels. Like that painting over the bed? How about that drawing next to the TV? At hotels around the globe, guests now have the option to purchase the art work in their rooms.

  •  
    Van Leeuwen Artisan Ice Cream co-owners Ben Van Leeuwen, Laura O’Neill and Pete Van Leeuwen pose for a photo inside one of their trucks on Bedford Avenue in the Williamsburg section of New York’s Brooklyn borough. Food trucks have been around for generations but have flourished in a weak economy because consumers are looking for an inexpensive meal that’s not just a hot dog and soda. Or they’re looking for a treat like cupcakes and ice cream that are different from what they’d find in a supermarket. For Van Leeuwen Artisan Ice Cream, the six yellow trucks that began selling cones and sundaes four years ago have led to the opening of three stores.

    Food trucks provide on-the-go training for owners
    Associated Press
    Putting the cart before the store was the right recipe for ice cream maker Buck Buchanan. Back in 2001, Buchanan was a stay-at-home dad using his training as a chef to give cooking lessons to supplement his wife's income. Boredom set in and he decided to start a gourmet ice cream cart. "My thought was to build a clientele, build a customer base, so when I actually opened the store, people would flock to it," Buchanan says.

  •  
    A drought covering two-thirds of the country has damaged much of the country’s corn crops and pushed grain prices to record levels, triggering fears that a spike in food prices will soon follow.

    Impact of corn prices on food? Not what you think
    Associated Press
    Cornflakes won't necessarily be more expensive as a result of rising corn prices, but the milk you pour over them might be. A drought covering two-thirds of the country has damaged much of the country's corn crops and pushed grain prices to record levels, triggering fears that a spike in food prices will soon follow.

  •  

    Vacation rental looks luxe? Be sure to look deeper
    By Christopher Elliott
    Frank Leibsly says that his recent apartment rental in London was a disaster of Olympic proportions, and he has the pictures to prove it. Leibsly's story is more than a cautionary tale for anyone considering a vacation rental. It's also a by-now-familiar warning to read the entire rental contract from start to finish. You never know what rights you could be signing away.

  •  
    Workers of Airbus accompany the first Airbus A380 plane for the Emirates airline during the delivery ceremony at the German Airbus plant in Hamburg Finkenwerder, northern Germany. The Gulf’s three big airlines are all increasingly forging cross-border partnerships to extend their reach deeper into international markets. They are doing so even as they rapidly grow their own route networks and expand their fleets with billions of dollars’ worth of new fuel-efficient planes fitted with plush premium cabins.

    Gulf’s booming airlines forge new links abroad
    Associated Press
    During a demonstration flight of Boeing's new 787 high above the United Arab Emirates this summer, one of the plane-maker's representatives jokingly asked an Etihad Airways executive what was next on the airline's shopping list. It wasn't planes he was talking about, but chunks of other airlines. Abu Dhabi-based Etihad has snapped up stakes in four different carriers just since December, prompting speculation in aviation circles of more deals to come.

  •  

    Women as directors beat men-only boards in company stock return
    Bloomberg News
    Companies with women on their boards performed better in challenging markets than those with all-male boards in a study suggesting that mixing genders may temper risky investment moves and increase return on equity. Shares of companies with a market capitalization of more than $10 billion and with women board members outperformed comparable businesses with all-male boards by 26 percent worldwide over a period of six years, according to a report by the Credit Suisse Research Institute, created in 2008 to analyze trends expected to affect global markets.

  •  
    It might make sense, financially and logistically, to not follow a spouse who’s temporarily relocating for a job.

    Work advice: Follow a spouse working a temporary job?
    By Karla L. Miller
    Because of a great job opportunity for my husband, we are temporarily relocating to a small, Midwestern rural town for about a year. I am unable to keep my current job, so I am hunting for a job in this new area. At what point do I need to tell prospective employers that I will only be in the area for a short time? Should I mention it in the cover letter, in the interview or when an offer is extended?

  •  
    Proposals put forward by the experts assembled by the Center for American Progress include multiple steps to eliminate both artificially high prices and unnecessary procedures. For example, rather than have Medicare set prices for lab tests and medical devices, we should put all such purchases out for competitive bidding.

    Smart ways to keep the brake on health-care costs
    Bloomberg
    The rising cost of health care in the U.S. has been slowing over the past few years, driven both by weakness in the general economy and by some changes in the way medical services are provided. The crucial question now is, how can we make sure that progress continues? The Center for American Progress should be commended for gathering a group of health-care experts and putting forward more than 10 specific proposals to constrain cost growth.

Life & Entertainment

  •  
    What you can and can’t carry on a plane seems to change almost daily — and the rules rarely seem logical.

    What you can, can’t carry on is a crapshoot
    By Gail Todd
    The list of dangerous carry-on items is always evolving. Some are obvious. Try to bring a meat cleaver onboard and you'll cause a real beef with security. On the other hand, screw drivers, wrenches and pliers are probably OK.

  •  
    In this film image released by Warner Bros., Christian Bale portrays Bruce Wayne and Batman in a scene from “The Dark Knight Rises,” which has kept its hold on the box office for three weeks.

    `Dark Knight' on top for third straight week
    Associated Press
    "The Dark Knight Rises" topped the box office for the third week in a row, making $36.4 million this past weekend. The finale in Christopher Nolan's epic Batman trilogy has now made nearly $355 million domestically alone, according to Sunday estimates from Warner Bros. "The support from audiences across North America has been outstanding," a Warner Bros. spokesman said. "The movie speaks for itself, and the unfortunate tragedy that took place hurt everyone. We're obviously very moved by the events that took place."

  •  
    The coming decade will be the decade of dark matter, some scientists say, as efforts to detect the mysterious stuff will either pay off or rule out the most promising hypothesis about what it is. But astronomers may have already detected signs of dark matter in the heart of our own Milky Way galaxy, a pair of astrophysicists now says.

    Gamma rays hint at dark matter in our galaxy
    ScienceNOW
    The coming decade will be the decade of dark matter, some scientists say, as efforts to detect the mysterious stuff will either pay off or rule out the most promising hypothesis about what it is. But astronomers may have already detected signs of dark matter in the heart of our own Milky Way galaxy, a pair of astrophysicists now says.

  •  
    Many deep-sea squid dispel an ink cloud to flee a predator, but one species goes a step farther: It ensures a getaway by counterattacking and then ditching the tips of its arms. These detached bits can continue to twitch and emit bioluminescent light — likely providing a vital distraction.

    The mystery of deep-sea squids’ missing arms
    ScienceNOW
    Many deep-sea squid dispel an ink cloud to flee a predator, but one species goes a step farther: It ensures a getaway by counterattacking and then ditching the tips of its arms. These detached bits can continue to twitch and emit bioluminescent light — likely providing a vital distraction. By catching this strange maneuver on camera, scientists have established Octopoteuthis deletron as the only known squid to drop portions of its arms in self-defense, much as lizards drop their tails before escaping.

  •  
    Sometimes ice cream can be a little too experimental for its own good. A tip: Vegetable-based ice cream is generally not a crowd-pleaser.

    100 ways to ruin ice cream
    By Jennifer Reese, Slate
    It's been hot. Time to buy solar panels and make ice cream. But what kind? Ice cream has gotten a lot more complicated in recent years thanks to the rise of the artisanal ice cream boutique. If you live in a medium-size to big city, you know what I'm talking about: that trendy-looking new shop with the ever-changing roster of challenging flavors scrawled on a chalkboard and more likely to include "watermelon wheat" or "burnt sweet potato" than cookies 'n' cream. If there's vanilla, it is not just "vanilla." It is "Madagascar vanilla" or "Ugandan vanilla."

  •  
    Who would get more medals in the Olympics, the ancient Greeks who founded the event or modern Olympians? Odds are the ancients could hold their ground against the first modern Olympians in 1896, but today’s athletes would prove too much. Phaylos of Croton, for example, hurled a discus about 95 feet around 500 B.C., far short of the modern record of 243 feet.

    Ancient Greeks vs. modern Olympians: Who gets gold?
    By Brian Palmer, Slate
    How would the ancient Greeks, who invented the Olympic Games, compete against today's athletes? Probably not well. Ancient athletes could have held their own in the first modern Olympic Games of 1896. Phayllos of Croton, for example, hurled the discus 95 feet in the Pythian games around 500 B.C. That distance would have put him in the running for a medal at the 1896 Olympic competition, but it's far short of the current record of 243 feet.

  •  
    Beyond Meat’s chicken strips taste just like real chicken.

    Beyond meat: The most real faux chicken ever
    By Farhad Manjoo, Slate
    The first time a vegetarian tastes Beyond Meat's ersatz animal flesh, he'll feel delighted and queasy at the same time. There's something about the way these fake chicken strips break on your teeth, the way they initially resist and then yield to your chew, the faint fatty residue they leave on your palate and your tongue — something about the whole experience that feels a little too real. "My first reaction was, if I was given this in a restaurant, I'd get the waiter to come over and ask if he'd accidentally given us real chicken," a co-founder of Twitter said.

  •  
    A scene from the TV show “Market Warriors” that premiered on PBS on July 16. The list of television shows about hunting for elusive treasure amid mountains of discarded junk keeps on growing like a suburban landfill. At least three new entries are premiering this summer, adding to the already double-digit roster of reality shows about “pickers” and pawn shop owners and people who bid for the contents of storage containers.

    Why one person’s junk is another’s TV obsession
    Associated Press
    Tracy Hutson wanders through a graveyard of ovens that haven't roasted a turkey or baked a ham since decades before she was born. Picking through their discarded parts, she muses, "The rust on this is just so gorgeous." Her "Picker Sisters" partner, Tanya McQueen, agrees — yet another item to bargain for, purchase and turn into a high-end piece of furniture on their Lifetime network TV series.

  •  
    Screenshot from The CW’s upcoming “Beauty and the Beast, a remake of the 1987-90 series. Many TV shows, including “Dexter,” “Homeland” and “Sons of Anarchy,” glorify monstrous men who are tender around the women they love.

    TV’s obsession with monsters and women who love them
    By Alyssa Rosenberg, Slate
    On "Dexter," serial killer Dexter Morgan's adoptive sister, Deb, decided she was in love with him only to find him murdering another serial killer. On "Homeland," Claire Danes' Carrie Mathison fell in love with a man she believed to be a terrorist. On "Sons of Anarchy," gang leader Jax Teller contrasts his violent profession with his tenderness toward his girlfriend and sons. All of these shows invert the idea of a man who'd be willing to use force to defend the woman he loves or his family. Instead, the violent heroes mark the women they love as special by restraining their violent tendencies around them.

  •  
    Cat behaviorist Jackson Galaxy is shown in May 2012 working with Oliver the cat, during production of Season 3 of Animal Planet’s “My Cat From Hell” in New York. On his TV show, Galaxy helps cats and cat owners solve behavior problems, human and feline.

    Expert says tail is key to cat communication
    Associated Press
    Many cats are tail talkers. If those tails start to twitch and wag, watch out for fangs and claws, warns cat behaviorist Jackson Galaxy. If you try to pet a cat when its tail is wagging and get bitten, "You had it coming," says Galaxy, who helps solve behavior problems, both human and feline, on his Animal Planet TV show, "My Cat From Hell."

  •  
    Actor Jeff Daniels, left, and creator and executive producer Aaron Sorkin appear onstage during HBO’s TCA panel for “The Newsroom” at the Beverly Hilton hotel on Aug. 1 in Beverly Hills, Calif. The Oscar-winning writer-producer Sorkin defended “The Newsroom” and denied reports that he fired his entire writing staff at today’s gathering of the Television Critics Association.

    Aaron Sorkin defends ‘The Newsroom’ from critics
    Associated Press
    Aaron Sorkin is confronting critics of his HBO drama head-on. The Oscar-winning writer-producer defended "The Newsroom" during a Wednesday gathering of the Television Critics Association and denied reports that he fired his entire writing staff. Sorkin said there were staff changes but that all the writers were not dismissed. "They're coming to work early. They're being polite to me," he joked. "I want the old gang back."

  •  
    Singer Ann Hampton Callaway joins the Chicago Symphony Orchestra on Sunday, Aug. 5, for a musical tribute to composer Harold Arlen at Ravinia Festival.

    Sunday picks: Callaway honors 'Oz' composer at Ravinia
    By Scott Morgan and Laura Stewart
    Celebrate the songs of composer Harold Arlen (“The Wizard of Oz”) when guest vocalist Ann Hampton Callaway and the jazzy John Pizzarelli Quartet join the Chicago Symphony Orchestra Sunday at Ravinia. Today's your last chance to enjoy the World of Faeries Festival in South Elgin, the McHenry County Fair and Lollapalooza. So get out and have some fun!

  •  
    Bottles are ready to be filled at the Allagash brewery in Portland, Maine. Tours of Allagash and several other local craft beer companies are among a number of free things for visitors to do in and around Maine's biggest city.

    Seeing Portland, Maine on the cheap
    By Clarke Canfield
    The ocean views in an around Portland are worth a million bucks, but they can be had for free. And they're not the only things that can be enjoyed without opening your wallet in Maine's largest city. There are hiking trails, ocean beaches, lighthouses, cultural attractions and more that come at no cost.

  •  
    Nick Walker of Amboy, Ind., drives a tank in Kasota, Minn., while his father Brad Walker looks out from the turret and Drive-A-Tank owner Tony Borglum sits behind him.

    Tank drivers see plenty of action
    By Jeff Baenen
    For anyone who ever has been stuck in traffic, it's a tempting fantasy: If only you were driving a tank and could roll over everything in your path. Some drivers are now flocking to an out-of-the-way spot in southern Minnesota to turn that vision into metal-crunching reality.

  •  
    A statue of Joshua Chamberlain in Brunswick, Maine, is located on the grounds of the Bowdoin College campus. Chamberlain, a graduate of Bowdoin College and a professor there, led the Union's defense of Little Round Top at the Battle of Gettysburg during the Civil War and accepted the Confederacy's surrender at Appomattox in Virginia in 1865.

    Brunswick, Maine, steeped in art and history
    Associated Press
    With connections to Harriet Beecher Stowe and Joshua Chamberlain, Brunswick, Maine, a town of 23,000, is sometimes called the place where the Civil War began and ended. But while Brunswick is a good destination for history buffs, it also has a lively restaurant scene, a first-rate art museum, and other attractions that earned it a spot on Smithsonian Magazine's 2012 list of America's best small towns.

  •  

    Ice buildup can block air flow from A/C
    By Doug McAllister
    Q. On a recent trip, the cabin of the car started to get warm. The air was cold and the fan sounded as if it were at full speed, but only a minimal amount of cold air was coming through the vents.

  •  

    Don’t withhold rent payment because of broken air conditioner
    By Robert Griswold
    Q. I live in a duplex and my air conditioner has been working intermittently now for nearly a year. Can I withhold rent until my landlord makes repairs?

  •  

    Mini-split systems will cool second-floor rooms
    By James Dulley
    Q. We added a room, but our central air conditioner doesn't cool it well. Our second floor master bedroom also does not stay cool. Does it make sense to install a window air conditioner or a mini-split system?

  •  
    Because of its versatility and vibrant color possibilities, enameled cast iron is fast becoming the material of choice among those wanting to install high-end bar sinks.

    Cast-iron bar sinks serve up some great features
    By Ed Del Grande
    Q. Do you have any suggestions for a bar sink that can add beauty along with practical features for our new kitchen island? Ed Del Grande answers your plumbing questions.

  •  
    Lisa Mair created this “Mariner’s Compass” floorcloth. Mair often combines elements of history, children and math.

    Floor cloths add a touch of style to modern homes
    By Kim Cook
    If you were the artistic wife of a sailor back in 17th century France, you didn't let modest means deter you from decorating your home in style. You transformed your husband's old sails into beautifully painted floor coverings that rivaled those in wealthy homes.

  •  

    How much to spend on attic insulation?
    By Henri de Marne
    Q. I was disappointed in your recent reply to the question about having two layers of fiberglass insulation between the floor joists in the attic — about 6 to 8 inches total. This equates to an R-value of about 18 to 24. In Chicago, we recommend R-49 in attics.

  •  

    Avoid stereotyping spouses in rough relationships
    By Carolyn Hax
    My wife and I have been together for 16 years, married for 14. We had children late and have two lovely kids. We both never wanted children, and then suddenly she wants a child and I acquiesce, consequently I fall in love with said child. Eventually one child is not enough and we must have another — and do.

  •  
    Colorful flowers grow at Thuya Garden in Northeast Harbor, Maine. Thuyaís collection includes plants from renowned landscape designer Beatrix Farrand.

    Noted landscape architect used native plants, natural landscaping
    By Beth J. Harpaz
    Some of Maine's most popular destinations are located on Mount Desert Island, including Bar Harbor and Acadia National Park. But the island is also home to several remarkable gardens, all connected to the renowned landscape architect Beatrix Farrand, whose philosophy of garden design emphasized native plants and using natural landscapes to define outdoor spaces.

  •  
    According to researchers at the Spanish National Research Council, contemporary pop music is in fact louder, more predictable and simpler than ever. But the study didn’t take into account pop songs’ rhythms, and some qualities of music will always defy the data.

    Study: Pop music is louder, simpler than it used to be
    By J. Bryan Lowder, Slate
    According to a new study from researchers at the Spanish National Research Council, the familiar complaint that contemporary popular music has grown loud, predictable and simpler than ever may be exactly right. While we often cast a skeptical eye toward quantitative studies of music like this one, a closer examination of the paper reveals that, even for skeptics, the analysis may have a point — even if the portrait it paints is incomplete.

Discuss

  •  

    Editorial: Quinn’s move to ban assault weapons
    By The Daily Herald Editorial Board
    Even staunch defenders of the Second Amendment agree some weapons must be kept out of reach of the public, a Daily Herald editorial argues. And then asks: Why shouldn't assault weapons be among them?

  •  

    In the company of Madison
    By George Will
    Columnist George Will: Ted Cruz's victory in Tuesday's Texas Republican runoff for the U.S. Senate nomination is the most impressive triumph yet for the still-strengthening tea party impulse

  •  

    Government excess makes me weary
    A Vernon Hills letter to the editor: I'm tired of the government running my life. You can't run our state or country, so what makes you think you can run my life?

  •  

    Critics don’t seem to understand system
    A Rolling Meadows letter to the editor: I am always amazed at times how people do not understand or care how the political system works in the simplest way. You have to control the House and Senate to ensure anything can be passed.

  •  

    Health care law will save lives
    An Arlington Heights letter to the editor: Republicans feel if we cannot afford health care, we don't deserve to live either.

  •  

    Stay true to our Founders’ intentions
    An Arlington Heights letter to the editor: A hardy thanks to Hobby Lobby for its Independence Day full page ad. Political correctness aside, it is true that the United States of America was founded as a Christian republic.

  •  

    Romney among the morally challenged
    A Wheaton letter to the editor: Mitt Romney, given his history with Bain Capital, is the poster child for such morally challenged predators. I fail to see how such experiences qualify him to lead our country and especially to help solve the myriad problems we face.

  •  

    Milton Twp. article unfair to Hinkle
    A Wheaton letter to the editor: In my opinion, the Page 1 article written by Robert Sanchez is a prime example of "hack journalism" that should be below the standards set by the Daily Herald.

  •  

    Obama’s contempt for American Dream
    An Elgin letter to the editor: When the President scolds, "There are a lot of smart people, there are a lot of people who work hard," he reveals his contempt for the American Dream, because there are a lot of countries with roads and bridges, yet millions of people flee those countries to seek opportunity in America, and even Obama should know that they don't come here for our roads and bridges.

  •  

    Vote for Romney favors the rich
    An Elgin letter to the editor: While Mitt Romney dodges questions about his taxes he blames Obama for the results of Bush's disastrous policies that gave us the Great Recession. Of course, he supports the GOP Ryan budget and more tax breaks for the rich, repeal of Obamacare and rollback Of Wall Street regulation. Mitt is George on steroids.

  •  

    More taxes, fewer services
    An Elgin letter to the editor: We see the city of Elgin is reporting about a $7 million surplus in its 2012 budget projections given to the bond rating agencies. While several council members have been busy patting themselves on the back for their great budget we are paying more taxes and getting fewer services.

  •  

    Chick-fil-A debate shows it’s more than getting quotes right
    By Jim Davis
    Columnist Jim Davis: In something as emotionally charged and divisive as gay marriage and the Chick-fil-A protests, we have an obligation to do more than parrot back what everyone has to say.

  •  

    GOP hopes we’ve forgotten Bush?
    A Lombard letter to the editor: Is the Republican Party embarrassed by Bush? Are GOP leaders hoping our memories are so poor that we've forgotten about his eight years in office?

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