Dawn Patrol: 1 SUV in 3 crashes; Zion-Benton reopening
Zion-Benton back in session after four-day strike
School is back in session starting today for Zion-Benton Township District 126 students after a four-day teacher strike over contract negotiations. The teachers union ratified an agreement reached during the early morning hours yesterday. Although the board of education must still vote on the contract tonight, classes, sports and extracurriculars will resume their normal schedules today. Full story.
SUV involved in 2 crashes before striking Wheaton home
Police continue to investigate a series of car crashes involving a black SUV, which after crashing twice yesterday smashed into a Wheaton home. Both men inside the vehicle were injured in the crash, which also damaged the home. “There was a huge, stunning sound,” said Dianne Chung, 18, who lives next door to the home that was struck. “My house was shaking, which was kind of scary.” No charges have been filed as the men remain hospitalized. Full story.
Palatine High senior wins $100,000 scholarship for tossing football
A Palatine High School senior won a $100,000 scholarship after winning a football toss contest at Cowboys Stadium in Texas for a commercial to be viewed during the Cotton Bowl the next day. Erin Rhodes submitted a video explaining how she wanted to study special education because she was inspired by her brother with Down syndrome, and was chosen as a finalist. In the final round she beat out a native of Congo who wants to be a missionary. Full story.
Former Big Ten commissioner injured in Barrington crash
Former Big Ten conference Commissioner Wayne Duke was listed in serious condition last night after a car crash in Barrington yesterday morning that also injured an 8-year-old girl, police said. Duke, 83, of Barrington, was seriously injured in the crash at the intersection of Route 59 and Cuba Road. Duke, Big Ten commissioner for 18 years before retiring in 1989, is a resident of Barrington. Full story.
Foster mom: I'd adopt abandoned baby if Sung found unfit
The foster mom of a baby boy left in a Wheaton yard testified that she would adopt the boy #8220;in a heartbeat#8221; if Nunu Sung is found unfit to raise the baby she left in 2009. The foster mom testified yesterday as the state wrapped up its case against Sung, 27, who is fighting for custody of the boy. The foster mom recalled a number of instances where she had #8220;concerns#8221; about Sung's parenting ability. Full story.
Cop hops in suspect's vehicle as he flees