Dawn Patrol: District 86 says drop strike threat; puppy mill ban delay
Arlington Heights delays decision on puppy mill ban
Arlington Heights leaders are backing off discussions about village regulations for puppy sales to allow a federal lawsuit challenging Cook County's new puppy mill ban to works its way through the court system. Village officials had planned to consider "opt out" provisions that would exempt Happiness is Pets, 15 W. Golf Road, from the ordinance, which bars suburban Cook County pet stores from selling dogs, cats and rabbits not obtained from a shelter, rescue or small-scale breeders. Full story.
Dist. 86 asks teachers union to drop strike threat
Hinsdale High School District 86 school board members yesterday called on the teachers union to drop the threat of a strike and allow a vote on the district's latest contract offer. While the district revealed the details of the offer at its news conference, the teachers union said it was about time they heard those details. Full story.
Hoffman Estates officials counting on Sears staying
Hoffman Estates government and business leaders said they're confident about Sears Holdings Corp.'s continued presence in the community, despite news the company needed a $400 million short-term loan from CEO Edward Lampert. "I think I'm pleased that Lampert is loaning them money," Hoffman Estates Mayor Bill McLeod said. Full story.
Palatine man's defense still waiting on evidence in 1997 slaying
The defense attorney for a Palatine man accused of killing 14-year-old runaway Amber Creek in 1997 and dumping her body in a Wisconsin wildlife refuge told a judge yesterday she hasn't seen even half of the evidence prosecutors could use against her client at a possible trial. The slow handover of evidence against James P. Eaton is delaying his ability to mount a defense, which could require hiring expert witnesses to address forensic evidence authorities say link him to the slaying, said Katie Gutowski, a public defender in Racine County, Wisconsin. Full story.
Two Wheaton lawyers disciplined by Illinois Supreme Court
One Wheaton-based attorney was disbarred and another was placed on probation in the latest round of lawyer disciplinary orders filed by the Illinois Supreme Court. Officials with the Illinois Attorney Registration and Disciplinary Commission said sanctions were imposed against Brian P. Lee and Thomas McGrath O'Connor because they engaged in professional misconduct by violating state ethics law. Full story.
Closing arguments expected in Carol Stream fire hearing
After several months of legal proceedings, the disciplinary hearing for Carol Stream Fire District Battalion Chief Joseph Gilles finally appears to be nearing an end. Closing oral arguments will begin at 4:30 p.m. today before the Carol Stream Fire District Board of Commissioners. Written closing arguments already should have been submitted to the commission. Full story.
Residents concerned with subdivision near Wheaton North
More than a dozen residents are opposing plans to build 13 houses just north of Wheaton North High School. Flooding issues, increased traffic, noise and the removal of mature trees were among the concerns voiced during a recent public hearing about the possible annexation and development of 4½ acres near 0N675 Morse St. Full story.
Weather
Mostly sunny and 65 degrees this afternoon. It will be around 52 degrees when you head out this morning. Temperatures tonight should be in the low 50s again. Full forecast.
Traffic
Construction continues on Rollins Road at Route 45 in Round Lake Beach. Heavy delays are expected and people should seek alternate routes. Full traffic.
Arrieta takes no-hitter into 8th, Cubs blank Reds
Jake Arrieta took a no-hit bid into the eighth inning before giving up Brandon Phillips' one-out double, the only blemish for the Chicago Cubs pitcher in a 7-0 shutout of the Cincinnati Reds last night. Arrieta (9-5) struck out 13 and walked one in his first career complete game. Full story.
Speaking of the Cubs
The Cubs wasted little time yesterday renewing one minor league affiliate and coming to terms with another. The Kane County Cougars were not one of them, and that situation might take a few days to play itself out, with the Cougars appearing to be no better than an even shot to remain the Cubs' Midwest League affiliate. Full story.