Dawn Patrol: Snow comes late, Blackhawks lose
Weather
As most people know just by looking outside, heavy, wet snow fell overnight. Between 1-inch and 8-inches of snow fell depending on where you live, so be prepared for it. The Winter Weather Advisory is continuing until noon today, when the storm should officially push on. Temperatures will be about 37 degrees for a high today, before dipping to 22 overnight. Full weather.
Traffic
Slick conditions are being reported everywhere, but up in McHenry and Lake counties where the heaviest snowfall was reported, traffic is trecherous. The wet heavy snow is sticking to everything, so even after a plow goes by, conditions remain slick. Congestion will be heavy, later, so give yourself plenty of time and drive safe. Full traffic.
Lake County getting hit with snow
A snowstorm predicted for Thursday afternoon and evening didn't materialize when it was expected, but it eventually showed up, and is sure packing a punch in northern Lake and McHenry counties right now. The first wave of the suburban storm materialized farther north than expected, dumping about an inch of slush on the ground late Thursday. Then, after a lull of about two hours, towns far north and northwest of Chicago picked up between 6-inches and 8-inches of thick snow overnight, meteorologists said. Full story.
Teens say off-duty cop shot at them
While DuPage County law enforcement authorities remain tight-lipped about a weekend shooting at Fermilab involving an off-duty police officer, people in the car with the shooting victim are telling their side of the story. Full story.
Hanover Park reports historic low crime rate
Nearly three years after a spate of murders and other violence rocked Hanover Park, the police department has released statistics showing crime fell for the second consecutive year, reached its lowest levels in more than four decades. Police Chief David Webb credits the improvement to a new approach in policing that involves the community. Full story.
Calusinski gets 31 years
Melissa Calusinski will spend 31 years in prison for killing a toddler at the Lincolnshire day-care center where she worked. A jury convicted Calusinski, 25, in November of first-degree murder in the Jan. 14, 2009, death of 16-month-old Benjamin Kingan of Deerfield at the former Mini Subee in the Park day care center. Full story.
No strike imminent in U-46
Despite chatter that a strike is imminent over the prolonged contract negotiations between the Elgin Teachers Association and the U-46 school board, members from both sides say there is no truth to the rumors. Kathryn Castle, president of the Elgin Teachers Association representing more than 2,200 educators, said negotiations will continue this week. Full story.
Help Aurora police solve robbery
Aurora police are seeking the public's help in tracking down a man who robbed the Tag Heuer outlet store earlier this month of women's watches worth $65,000 and an undisclosed amount of cash. Anyone with information is asked to call Aurora police at (630) 256-5500 or make an anonymous call to Aurora Area Crime Stoppers at (630) 892-1000. Full story.
Democrats weigh in on environment
The three candidates battling for the 11th Congressional District Democratic nomination clashed on environmental policy Thursday night as cap-and-trade became a campaign issue. Juan Thomas, Bill Foster and Jim Hickey spoke at a forum in Aurora. Full story.
Dallas upends Blackhawks
The Stars scored three late goals to down the Blackhawks 3-1 and end their winning streak at four games. Marian Hossa scored the lone goal for Chicago, which plays the L.A. Kings on the road Saturday. Full story.