Dawn Patrol: Westbound Northwest Hwy. in Barrington to remain closed
Northwest Hwy. in Barrington to remain closed to westbound traffic this morning
A section of Northwest Highway in Barrington is expected to remain closed to westbound traffic during this morning's rush hour after a fiery crash that spread a chemical (and not vegetable oil) all over the road, police said in a news release. Full story
Transgender locker room debate comes to Palatine District 15
The locker room debate that has raged on at Palatine-Schaumburg High School District 211 since 2015 came to the local elementary and middle schools of Palatine Township Elementary District 15 last night. Inside the District 15 school board meeting, community members argued for and against allowing transgender students to choose their bathroom and locker room facilities. Outside, a group of about 150 people gathered to support transgender students. Full story.
Metra Milwaukee West line delayed after wind takes down power line in Elgin
Metra riders taking trains on the Milwaukee District West Line should be able to travel as usual this morning, after Wednesday's strong winds knocked a power line onto the railroad tracks near the Elgin train station, Metra officials said. Full story
Glen Ellyn man says bloody beating of his father was self-defense
Charles Mitchell says it was self-defense when he "hit (his) dad pretty hard" during an altercation last June, but the Glen Ellyn man testified Wednesday that he never intended to kill his father. The trial, in which Mitchell is representing himself, continues today. Full story
District 301 school board candidates talk about transparency, trust
Challengers for the Burlington-based Central Unit District 301 school board cite curbing rising taxes and addressing a lack of transparency and trust in the district administration and board as key issues in the race. Full story
Wheaton native had to make tough choice before auditioning on 'The Voice'
Being a contestant on this season of NBC's "The Voice" has been a surreal experience for 24-year-old Wheaton native Micah Tryba, but the most emotional moment so far took place before the cameras even started rolling. Full story
After two years, Vernon Hills approves plans for homes on Cuneo property
Pulte Homes has received formal approval to build 128 homes on a portion of the former Cuneo grounds in Vernon Hills as part of an arrangement that also will provide millions of dollars for upgrades to the estate's 100-year-old mansion. Full story.
Weather
Mostly clear and 33 degrees this morning. Highs around 42 today, with lows tonight near 23. Full story.
Traffic
Westbound Northwest Highway is closed in Barrington between Hart and Cuba roads for continued cleanup of hazardous materials from a crash that took place early Wednesday morning. Traffic is routed north on Hart Road to Cuba Road. Full story.
Another fourth-quarter fade stretches Bulls' losing streak to three
The Bulls played well in the first half, were tied at the end of three quarters, then fell apart in the fourth. Orlando pulled away late and handed the Bulls their third straight loss 98-91 at the Amway Center. Read Mike McGraw's take