Dawn Patrol: Train blocks runners from Elmhurst race
Turkey trot tested
Many runners and walkers at the 34th annual Dan Gibbons Turkey Trot in Elmhurst were delayed getting to the race, as a freight train blocked a crossing until after the charity event began. But the race still helped local charities. Full story.
How some recruits spent the holiday
About three dozen recruits from the Great Lakes Naval Station enjoyed bowling, playing pool, and a Thanksgiving dinner Thursday, courtesy of American Legion Post 690 of Palatine. But the most popular part may have been the phone calls and computer chats with their loved ones. Full story.
Lombard fire leaves house uninhabitable
No one was injured in a house fire Wednesday evening in Lombard, but firefighters had trouble getting in due a "large amount" of items being stored in it. Full story.
Wheaton depot burned
On the UP West line, the Wheaton Metra station is closed after a Wednesday-night fire, but riders can still board there. Full story.
Weather
Clear this morning, with temperatures in the upper 30s. Warm and windy today, with highs around 60 and wind gusts up to 30 mph. Complete forecast.
Traffic
No major delays to report early this morning. Traffic report.
Don't even ...
Sure, mall parking lots are jammed today, and there's a handicapped parking space, empty, looking so inviting. Don't. Besides the risk of bad karma, Illinois Secretary of State Police are handing out tickets today. Full story.
Post-shopping pick-me-ups
Black Friday shopping could drive anyone to drink. Try the Bloody Mary Bash at North Shore Distillery, or holiday beers at Elgin Public House. Full story.
See Santa
Where can you find the Man in Red? At shopping centers, charity runs, Christmas-tree lightings, pancake breakfasts and more. Full story.
Trubisky a potential Wentz?
The Bears should be so lucky if Mitch Trubisky, the second pick in this year's draft, has the career arc of the Philadelphia Eagles' Carson Wentz. The 2016 second pick had a bumpy rookie year but is on track to take the Eagles to the playoffs, Bob LeGere writes. Full story.