Dawn Patrol: Schaumburg bans video gambling; Danada horses fat
Schaumburg bans video gambling
Schaumburg village trustees voted to ban video gambling machines last night. The move comes about six months before eligible businesses in Illinois such as sit-down restaurants with 4,500 square feet of space will be able to install the machines. Officials estimated about 25 businesses of the village's 115 total might have sought licenses and dedicated space for machines. Full story.
Vet: Horses at Danada are obese, but not abused
A veterinarian brought in to examine horses at Danada Equestrian Center after volunteers complained of neglect of some horses found that there were no signs of abuse. The assessment of the 25-horse herd found the biggest problem facing the forces was obesity. Thirty-four volunteers had signed a letter urging the forest preserve district to take action in November. Full story.
Raises, more judges means Illinois residents pay 29 percent more in 8 years
Despite declining caseloads, stagnant population and the state's growing deficit, Illinois taxpayers will spend about $39 million more on judicial salaries this year than they did just eight years ago.
There are 56 more judges on the bench today than there were in 2004, and all 967 judges receive a constitutionally guaranteed raise every year. Full story
Justices question health care mandate, will continue arguments today
After the Supreme Court's conservative justices repeatedly questioned the health care overhaul's individual mandate yesterday, the question today is whether the law could survive if it is taken out. The ruling in the case is due in June, before the presidential election. The law, passed two years ago, would extend insurance coverage to 30 million people who lack it, but faces strong opposition from Republicans, including presidential contenders. Considering past cases in the court, yesterday's questioning does not necessarily translate into the justices' opinions. Full story.
Windy, but warm Wednesday weather
Wednesday will get off to a warm start with temperatures in the low 60s and reaching a high of 70 by the afternoon. It will be a sunny, dry day with strong winds at times gusting up to 20 or 30 miles per hour. Full forecast
Tollways clear to start morning rush
Chicago area expressways look clear of traffic and accidents early on Wednesday, but traffic may build as the morning continues. Drivers in Lake Barrington may experience some backup near the intersection of Roberts and River roads due to a downed light pole and wires. Police are directing traffic around the intersection and Com Ed is on the scene. Full traffic report
Law to help limit school violence passes House
A proposal aimed at limiting school violence inspired by a Daily Herald investigation into school safety laws is halfway to Gov. Pat Quinn's desk. The proposal would allow police to share information about students with school officials to avoid violence in the classroom. The proposal comes four years after an Elgin student stabbed a teacher, who was unaware of two police investigations against him. Full story.
Man suffers severe injuries in Route 53 crash
A man in his 20s suffered life-threatening injuries in a crash that shut down Route 53 for more than four hours in Addison last night. Police believe the victim's view was blocked by a dump truck when he attempted to turn onto Route 53 a few blocks south of Fullerton Avenue. He was struck by an oncoming pickup truck and became entrapped in the vehicle. Full story.
Cause of Glen Ellyn fire under investigation
Glen Ellyn fire officials continue to investigate a blaze that severely damaged a large two-story home yesterday. No one was injured during the fire, which started at about 12:45 p.m., but the house was left uninhabitable. “It was a beautiful large house on a very large lot and the damage is going to be extensive,” said Glen Ellyn Lt. Craig Eldridge. Full story.
Ohio coach to take over at Illinois?
After weeks of rumors and refusals surrounding the head basketball coaching vacancy at the University of Illinois, it appears the job could go to Ohio's John Groce. The university said no deal has been reached, but an Illinois spokesman said workers started setting up Assembly Hall for a potential news conference. Although no deal has been reached, the spokesman said the expectation is the school will announce something this week. Full story.
Imrem: Illinois a top 10-15 basketball program
Daily Herald columnist Mike Imrem argues Groce might not be the worst choice for the Illini, as he took his team to the NCAA Tournament as a No. 13 seed and actually won two games. The problem is, according to Imrem, the Animal Housesque leadership at the university. Full story.