Dawn Patrol: New railroad could divert freight trains from suburbs
What if freight trains skirted suburbs via new rural railroad?
In the 21st century, the plan is rare to the point of being unbelievable: Building an $8 billion, 278-mile-long, two-track freight railroad through northeastern Illinois. And for suburbanites, the plan hints at some incredible possible benefits - like freight trains skipping the suburbs entirely. Full story.
Ex-employee accused of stealing from Oak Brook Park District
A former Oak Brook Park District employee has been charged with stealing nearly $30,000 from the park district's foundation, officials said Tuesday. Mary Tansey, 37, is charged with misdemeanor theft for making unauthorized personal purchases and cash withdrawals by using an Oak Brook Park District Foundation debit card. Full story.
South Elgin trustee charged with forgery in DuPage County
South Elgin Trustee Robert Sauceda is free on $30,000 bail after being charged in DuPage County with three counts of felony forgery. He is accused of submitting false documents to the DuPage County Department of Probation to help the son of a family friend avoid performing court-ordered community service. Full story.
Shuttered Polo Inn's days in Des Plaines could be numbered
Des Plaines officials hope a judge will grant an order May 6 allowing them to demolish a shuttered motel next to the site of the original McDonald's restaurant. The Polo Inn, which has been closed since floods damaged it in April 2013, could be months away from demolition if a judge rules in the city's favor, officials said. Full story.
Aurora man accused of breaking into car in Elgin
Alton L. Agee, of the 500 block of South Spencer Street in Aurora, will appear in Kane County bond court today to face felony charges of burglary to a motor vehicle and possession of burglary tools. Full story.
Muslim leaders lobby in Springfield
Muslim leaders from the Chicago area cited the controversy at Wheaton College over Professor Larycia Hawkins in backing two measures Tuesday in Springfield. The state Senate approved a measure supported by the Council of Islamic Organizations of Greater Chicago to name April 19 as "Illinois Muslim Action Day." Members of the group also lobbied to reinstate the legislature's Muslim American Advisory Council. Full story.
Weather
Some sun, then increasing clouds, breezy and warmer with a couple of showers around, mainly late. Temperatures will reach 67 degrees this afternoon before falling to the mid-50s overnight with rain. Full story.
Traffic
Check your morning commute times here. Full story.
Hawks' backs against the wall after Game 4 loss
Maybe this isn't the Blackhawks' year. The Blues claimed a 4-3 victory Tuesday night in Chicago to take a commanding 3-1 series lead. Thursday night's Game 5 in St. Louis is a do-or-die affair. Read beat writer John Dietz's take here.
Is Cubs-Cards rivalry swinging Chicago's way?
It sure seems like it after Tuesday night's 2-1 win in St. Louis. "Last year in the beginning of the year, they out-experienced us," said Cubs manager Joe Maddon. "I said from the beginning I felt we were as good as them, but they had a greater amount of experience that we didn't, and that really showed." Read beat writer Bruce Miles' take here.
Latos helps Sox snap three-game losing streak
Delivering his third quality start in as many tries Tuesday night, Mat Latos sparked the Sox to a 5-0 victory over the Angels at U.S. Cellular Field. Latos (3-0) allowed just 2 hits over 6 1/3 innings. Read beat writer Scot Gregor's take here.