U.S. Rep. Steve Scalise coming to Naperville for Congressman Peter Roskam

Oct 15, 2018 | kimberlykaczmarek

Big John and Ramblin’ Ray are joined with Rep. Steve Scalise, current United States House of Representatives Majority Whip and representative for Louisiana’s 1st congressional district. They discuss the reporter that was murdered in Saude Arabia, the Proud Boys who violently beat up protesters in New York but weren’t arrested, and his road to recovery after the 2017 Congressional baseball shooting.

U.S. Rep. Steve Scalise of Louisiana will be in Naperville on Wednesday, Oct. 17, at a reception for Roskam. A ticket goes for $50, and a “private roundtable” goes for $1,000. Get tickets and more information at RoskamforCongress.com

John & Ray’s High School Game of The Week

Sep 7, 2018 | kimberlykaczmarek

Big John and Ramblin’ Ray talk with Naperville Football Coaches Mike Stein and Sean Drendel, asking about their teams and what they hope this season. Also about ‘John & Ray’s High School Game of The Week’.

Click here to see Big John and Ramblin’ Ray’s pick of the week!

Weekend A-Jenda: Flower Fest, Color Fest and Opening Weekend…it is Officially Spring!

Apr 7, 2017 | WLSAM Staff

Click Here for Weekend Traffic Projects
Click Here for Weekend CTA Travel Alerts

Ray Stagich’s Weather Forecast

Friday | Few clouds early, otherwise…Plenty of sunshine. High 56F. (40s lakefront) Winds NNW at 10 to 20 mph.
Friday Night | Partly cloudy skies. Low 37F. (colder suburbs) Winds S at 5 to 10 mph.
Saturday | Sunny, breezy and milder…. High 69F. Winds S at 15 to 25 mph.
Saturday night | A few clouds from time to time. Low around 55F. Winds SSW at 10 to 20 mph.
Sunday | Mostly cloudy. Highs in the upper 70s and lows in the low 60s.

Spin to Break the Cycle

Date: Saturday, April 8th
Time: First session at 8:00 a.m.
Location: House of Blues, Chicago

From the website: On Saturday, April 8th, Spin to Break the Cycle takes over the iconic House of Blues Chicago uniting individuals, corporations and the greater Chicago community as together we help break the cycle and invest in the future of Chicago’s youth – creating stronger, safer, and healthier communities.

This high-energy spin (indoor cycling) event raises funds to support World Sport Chicago’s initiatives that leverage the transformative power of play and sport to mobilize communities to collectively make lasting change in their own community. Some of the city’s most recognized personalities, fitness instructors and organizations will enhance the excitement of the day in a spin event like none other.

For more information and reservations, visit the event website here: http://www.spintobreakthecycle.com/

Chicago White Sox vs. Minnesota Twins

Date: Friday, Saturday & Sunday
Location: Guaranteed Rate Field

Macy’s Flower Show

Date: Through Sunday, April 9th
Time: Friday & Saturday – 10:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m., Sunday – 11:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.
Location: Macy’s on State Street

Via the event website: Throughout the two weeks of Macy’s Flower Show, come enjoy a commemorative art installation representing the Chicago World’s Fair by Steven Crissey. The Chicago World’s Fair was meant to do far more than merely amuse the public; it ultimately showcased art, science, commerce and industry while creating a gathering place for people of all social classes. Steven Crissey is an American multimedia artist, focusing on design, painting and illustration, based in Chicago. To see more of Steven’s work, please feel free to follow him on Instagram at @coolsaysnev or check out stevencrissey.com.

Kids can learn the tricks of the trade for circus performers on Saturday at noon. Juggling, plate spinning, and other non-traditional skills to be learned on the ninth floor. Click here to RSVP your eight to 14-year-old.

Holi -The Festival Of Colors

Date: Saturday, April 8th
Time:11:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
Location: Downtown Naperville

Fun with color! Downtown Naperville will be painted in rainbow for this peaceful event of bathing yourself, friends and strangers in color. The organizer’s website states, “People bury their hatchets with a warm embrace and throw their worries to the wind. Festival promotes friendship while offering an occasion to forgive and forget.We will supply bags of organic, safe, dry colors for a small donation of $ 2 each.”

The event is a festival in Hindu tradition that closes out the winter and welcomes the spring with love.

2017 NCAA Men’s Frozen Four Hockey Championship Game

Date: Saturday, April 8th
Time: 7:00 p.m.
Location: United Center

On Saturday, according to a press release from the Mayor’s office, there will be several events and a free Frozen Fest for fans which is open to the public. “Frozen Fest will be the place to be for all hockey fans young and old. The festival-within-a-festival will be packed with red carpet team arrivals, pep rallies, live music, giveaways, games, local food, special appearances and more. Frozen Fest will be outside the United Center in Lot C, near gates two and three off of Madison Avenue.”

Click here for a full schedule of events.

Traffic Restrictions & Road Projects

Randolph Street between Franklin and Wells will be closed to remove a construction crane at the 151 N. Franklin Development. Randolph will be closed between Franklin and Wells Streets from 5 a.m. on Saturday, April 8th until 6:00 a.m. on Monday, April 10th.

Clinton Street between Fulton and Kinzie for Metra track maintenance. The closure will start at 4:00 a.m. on Saturday, April 8 and continue until 5 a.m. on Monday, May 10.

CTA Alerts and Route Changes

RED LINE
Apr 7 – 8
11:00 p.m. on Friday to 5:00 a.m. on Saturday
95th-bound Trains Bypass Jarvis Thru Bryn Mawr Stations
How does this affect my trip?
95th-bound trains will not stop at Jarvis, Morse, Loyola, Granville, Thorndale or Bryn Mawr stations.
For service from these stations, take a Howard-bound train to Howard and transfer to a 95th-bound train.
For service to these stations, take a 95th-bound train to Berwyn and transfer to a Howard-bound train.
For the full schedule of changes, visit http://www.transitchicago.com/weekend/

Motorcyclist killed in crash in Palatine

Sep 20, 2016 | WLSAM Staff

(PALATINE) A man died Sunday evening after the motorcycle he was driving crashed into a car that turned in front of him in northwest suburban Palatine.

Officers responded shortly after 1 p.m. to the crash on North Rand Road and East Winslowe Drive, according to Palatine police.

Corey Hindes, 54, was driving the motorcycle north on Rand and entering the intersection with Winslowe on a green light when a southbound Mercedes car attempted to turn left in front of the bike, authorities said. The motorcycle struck the passenger side of the Mercedes.

Hindes, who lived in the 300 block of East Knob Hill Drive in Arlington Heights, was taken to Lutheran General Hospital in Park Ridge, where he was pronounced dead at 7:06 p.m., according to the Cook County medical examiner’s office. An autopsy Monday determined he died of blunt force head injuries he suffered in the crash and his death was ruled an accident.

The driver of the Mercedes, an 89-year-old man from Mount Prospect, was cited for failing to yield while turning left, police said. He was scheduled to appear in court Nov. 1.

The Serious Traffic Accident Reconstruction (STAR) Team is assisting Palatine police in the investigation.

Weekend A-Jenda: Labor Day Weekend, 2016

Sep 1, 2016 | WLSAM Staff

Click Here for Weekend Traffic Projects
Click Here for Weekend CTA Travel Alerts

It’s technically the end of summer in Chicago with the beaches shutting down promptly on Monday night, and CPS going back in session come Tuesday. It’s usually a pretty busy weekend at the Chicago beaches, but here are some water sports to get in before the summer comes to an end!

Chicago Water Sport Rentals at 31st Street Beach
http://www.chicagowatersportrentals.com/
Jet Ski, Hobie Kayak and Paddleboard rentals

Jet Ski Chicago at North Avenue Beach
http://www.jetskischicago.com/
Jet Ski Rentals (Must be 18 years of age)

Kayak Chicago at Montrose Beach, North Avenue Beach and the Chicago River
https://kayakchicago.com
Kayak and Standup Paddleboard rentals
SUP classes and Lake tours

Chicago Paddle Co. at Kathy Osterman (Hollywood) Beach
http://www.chicagopaddlecompany.com/
Stand Up Paddling (SUP)

Chicago SUP at North Avenue Beach and Diversey Harbor
http://www.chicagosup.com/
SUP Lessons, group outings, yoga

The Great American Lobster Fest

Date: Friday, September 2 – Saturday, September 3
Time: Noon to 10:00 p.m. on Friday
11:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. on Saturday
Location: Navy Pier

Info from the website: The Great American Lobster Fest is the Midwest’s largest Lobster and seafood festival. We’re returning for our 3rd year to Chicago’s legendary Navy Pier on Labor Day Weekend! September 2nd and 3rd 2016, summer’s last hurrah! Enjoy live lobster flown in fresh from the cold waters of the East Coast, live music performances, family-friendly games and activities, unique craft shopping, and cold beverages. What’s not to love!?

Not a lobster fan? Not to worry, many other great food options will be available including Steak, Surf & Turf Options, and more!

The Great American Lobster Fest is an all-ages, family friendly event.

Naperville Last Fling

Friday, September 2 – Gates open at 5:30 p.m.
Saturday, September 3 – Gates open at 3:30 p.m.
Sunday, September 4 – Gates open at 2:30 p.m.
Monday, September 5 – Gates open at 2:00 p.m.
Location: Naperville

Sponge, Lit, Everclear, Sugar Ray…and that is just on Sunday!

From the website: The Naperville Jaycees’ Last Fling is a family-friendly community festival which takes place over Labor Day Weekend in and around Downtown Naperville and, for many, is a fun way to say farewell to summer! The Last Fling offers a wide variety of attractions for all ages to enjoy including national and local musicians on two stages, Family Fun Land, a carnival, unique special events, a business expo and a few running events.

Windy City Dub Fest

Date: Saturday, September 3
Time: 11:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
Location: Lake County Fairgrounds

Windy City Dub Fest® 2016 will be held on Saturday, September 3rd, 2016 from Noon to 6pm CST at the Lake County Fairgrounds. Spectator Tickets and Show Registration are now available for purchase online. More information at the event website.

The Loop Luau!

Date: Friday, September 2
Time: 8:00 p.m.
Location: Northerly Island

loop luau feat sammy hagar — Visit http://www.wlup.com/loop-luau-2016/ for more info and tickets.

Other events around the area

via festing.com

Buffalo Grove Days	08/31/2016	Buffalo Grove, IL
37th Annual Jazz Festival	09/01/2016	Chicago, IL
Summer Carnival, Carol Stream	09/01/2016	Carol Stream, IL
Tri County Fair	09/02/2016	Mendota, IL
Naperville Last Fling	09/02/2016	Naperville, IL
Latin American Festival	09/02/2016	Waukegan, IL
North Coast Music festival	09/02/2016	Chicago, IL
Taste of Melrose Park	09/02/2016	Melrose Park, IL
Hometown Days Festival	09/02/2016	Yorkville, IL
Manito Popcorn Festival	09/02/2016	Manito, IL
Harvard Balloon Fest	09/02/2016	Harvard, IL
Taste of Polonia 2016	09/02/2016	Chicago, IL
Sounds on the Street	09/02/2016	Glen Ellyn, IL
Kewanee Hog Days	09/02/2016	Kewanee, IL
Lake In The Hills Summer Sunset Festival	09/02/2016	Lake in the Hills, IL
Frankfort Fall Festival	09/03/2016	Frankfort, IL
Lemont Heritage Festival	09/03/2016	Lemont, IL
Chet Kingery Memorial Bluegrass Festival	09/03/2016	Arthur, IL
Schaumburg Septemberfest	09/03/2016	Schaumburg, IL
Long Grove Irish Days	09/03/2016	Lake Zurich, IL
Taste of Serbia	09/03/2016	Lake Forest, IL

Traffic Restrictions & Road Projects

Over the Labor Day holiday weekend, 200 local Illinois law enforcement agencies are urging motorists to “Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over.”

From the Illinois Department of Transportation:

“A high number of fatal traffic crashes on Illinois roads occur late at night, with an unacceptable amount involving drinking and motorists failing to buckle up, especially during the busy holiday travel periods,” said Priscilla Tobias, director of IDOT’s Office of Program Development. “Please, if you are on the road over the Labor Day weekend, drive sober and buckle up.”

Statistics show during last year’s Labor Day weekend (from 6 p.m. Friday, Sept. 4, until 11:59 p.m. Monday, Sept. 7) 13 people lost their lives in crashes.

Three of those fatalities involved a driver who tested positive for alcohol in their system.

“State police will be out in force with local law enforcement to get drunk drivers off the road during the Labor Day weekend,” said ISP Col. Tad Williams. “Troopers will show zero tolerance for impaired driving and seat belt law violators. Designate a driver before going out, and always buckle up,”

Here are some important safety tips:

– Designate a sober driver before going out and give that person your keys.

– Use your community’s designated driver program.

– If you are with someone who is impaired, do not let them drive.

– If you are impaired: Call a taxi, use mass transit or call a sober friend or family member to get you home safely.

– Promptly report impaired drivers, pull over to a safe location and dial 911.

– Make sure everyone in your vehicle wears a seat belt.

The “Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over” Labor Day crackdown began Monday, Aug. 22, and continues through the early morning hours of Tuesday, Sept. 6. It is administered by IDOT and supported by ISP local law enforcement agencies throughout Illinois.

WISDOT news release: Labor Day enforcement & travel

State Patrol will significantly increase enforcement during Labor Day weekend
Construction on most major highways will be suspended for the holiday The Labor Day holiday period from Friday through Monday has been deadly on Wisconsin roads with an average of eight traffic fatalities during the last five years. Moreover, traffic fatalities so far this year are about 8 percent higher than the same period last year.To prevent deaths and injuries over the Labor Day holiday period, the Wisconsin State Patrol will use all of its available resources for high-visibility traffic safety enforcement to get motorists to buckle up, obey speed limits, drive sober, and eliminate distractions.“Every State Patrol region will be participating in special emphasis details during the upcoming holiday period to increase voluntary compliance with traffic laws, not to write more tickets,” says Lt. Col. J.D. Lind. “We’ve identified times and locations with high crash rates, and we’re concentrating our resources on those targeted areas. Our Air Support Unit pilots will be flying missions to watch for traffic violations especially speeding, tailgating, and aggressive driving. Our commercial motor vehicle inspectors will be focusing on violations of truck safety laws, including speed limits on highway corridors, and will intently monitor traffic traveling near large trucks. Many of our high-visibility patrols throughout the state will be announced in advance on WisDOT Twitter. (@WisconsinDOT, #WisDOT) to motivate motorists to make responsible decisions.”To minimize travel disruptions during the Labor Day weekend, most major highway construction projects will be suspended from about noon on Friday, Sept. 2 until 6 a.m. on Tuesday, Sept. 6. However, drivers may still encounter lane restrictions and traffic delays in highway work zones, according to Beth Cannestra of the WisDOT Bureau of Project Development.“To prevent crashes, drivers must slow down, pay attention and not tailgate when approaching and traveling through work zones. Rear-end collisions caused primarily by speeding, distracted driving and following other vehicles too closely are the most frequent type of crash in work zones,” Cannestra says.

“When you see orange cones, put down your phone,” she says. “To help prevent distracted driving, a new state law taking effect Oct. 1 makes it illegal to talk on a handheld mobile device while driving in a work zone.”

Traffic is expected to be heavy throughout the holiday period especially from about noon until 8 p.m. on both Friday, Sept. 2, and Monday, Sept. 5.

CTA and Public Transit Weekend Alerts

On Sunday, Sep 4, updated schedules will go into effect for several bus routes. Most routes continue to have the same frequency and span of service, but arrival times may change up to a few minutes. For a copy of the new timetable brochure for any route, see the Advance Timetables page or call 1-888-YOUR-CTA.

It’s the last weekend for the #10 Museum of Science & Industry Revised Service Period — this bus only runs from Memorial Day through Labor Day.

Metra – This weekend Metra will offer special early departure schedules for the holiday weekend.

From the Metrarail.com website: Most of these schedules include extra service prior to the regular 5 p.m. start of the rush hour, with the cancellation or modification of some later rush hour train schedules. A summary of the early departure schedules can be found here.

“Summer’s gone by too fast and we want to make it easy to squeeze in as much extra fun as possible this holiday weekend,” said Metra Executive Director/CEO Don Orseno. “Expanding our $8 Weekend Pass to include Labor Day, plus the fact that kids 11 and under can ride free, make Metra the most affordable choice for Labor Day weekend fun in the city.”

The Chicago Jazz Festival at Millennium Park, fireworks at Navy Pier and the North Coast Music Fest at Union Park are just a few of the many events to enjoy in the city over Labor Day weekend. Metra’s $8 Weekend Pass allows unlimited rides anywhere on our system. The pass, which is normally sold on Saturdays and Sundays, will also be available for travel on the Monday holiday.

On Labor Day, Monday, Sept. 5, Metra will operate all services on a Sunday/holiday schedule. Metra SouthWest Service, Heritage Corridor and North Central Service trains will not operate on Labor Day. Alcohol restrictions will also be in effect and no alcohol will be allowed onboard Metra trains after 7 p.m. on Thursday, Sept. 1 and Friday, Sept. 2 and all day Saturday, Sept. 3 and Sunday, Sept. 4.

Weekend A-Jenda: July 21st – 24th

Jul 21, 2016 | WLSAM Staff

Click Here for Weekend Traffic Projects
Click Here for Weekend CTA Travel Alerts

Taste of River North

Date: Friday, July 22 – Sunday, July 24
Time: Friday – 5:00 p.m. – 10:00 p.m.
Saturday – 12:00 p.m. – 10:00 p.m.
Sunday – 11:00 a.m. – 8:00 p.m.
Location: Ward Park, Chicago

River North’s signature event, Taste of River North, returns for its 15th anniversary season, July 22 – 24. Lucky Boys Confusion, Sixteen Candles, and Rod Tuffcurls will rock your world. Enjoy a curated selection of the neighborhood’s best restaurants, merchants, and artists in addition to heart-pounding live music along picturesque Ward Park on the Chicago River. Check out www.tasteofrivernorth.com for more info.

Warped Tour

Date: Saturday, July 23
Time: 11:00 a.m. – 10:00 p.m.
Location: Hollywood Casino Amphitheater

Warped Tour is right around the corner and it’s a throwback year! 3OH!3, Good Charlote, Reel Big Fish, and many more will hit up Tinley Park’s Hollywood Casino Amphitheater on Saturday, July 23rd!

48th Annual Sheffield Music Festival & Garden Walk

Date: Saturday, July 23 and Sunday, July 24
Time: 12:00 p.m. – 10:00 p.m.
Location: DePaul Campus, Lincoln Park

From the website: The “Summer’s Best Festival” features self-guided tours of more than 80 Gardens, guided Architectural Tours, live entertainment by some of Chicago’s and North America’s finest bands, food and drink, and activities for children at the Kids’ Corner.

Traffic Alert: Sheffield closed between Webster and Fullerton

Grill Takeover with Lamar Moore of Smoke Daddy BBQ at Mariano’s West Loop

Date: Sunday, July 24
Time: 1:00 p.m. – 2:00 p.m.
Location: Mariano’s West Loop – 40 S. Halsted

Join us at Mariano’s West Loop for a Grill Takeover with Lamar Moore of The Smoke Daddy BBQ.
Lamar Moore will guide the class through perfect grilling techniques and the secrets to his best BBQ!

Registration ($10) is required and space is limited!

Disability Pride Parade

Date: Saturday, July 23
Time: 11:00 a.m.
Location: State & VanBuren, the Loop

Starting on South Plymouth since 2006, the parade marches north to Jackson, west to Dearborn Street, then North to Daley Plaza.

Public Transit:
‘L’
Blue and Red Lines – Jackson
Orange, Pink and Brown Lines – LaSalle/Van Buren
Bus
#22, #24, #29, #36, #62, #146, #147, #151

108th Chicago Yacht Club Race to Mackinac

Date: Saturday, July 23
Time: 10:00 a.m.
Location: Launching from Navy Pier

From the Website: With 326 boats participating in the 333-mile journey from Chicago to Mackinac Island this year, the 108th Chicago Yacht Club Race to Mackinac, presented by Wintrust will offer plenty of opportunities for fans to view the boats on land, on the water, and from anywhere else you might be. Here’s how you can see and track the 2016 race.

Other Festivals

from Festing.com

Lincolnwood Fest	07/21/2016	Lincolnwood, IL
Will County Threshermen’s 54th Annual Antique Tractor, Steam Engine and Gas Show	07/21/2016	Frankfort, IL
Kids Party In the Park	07/22/2016	Crystal Lake, IL
Concert in the Park, Glen Ellyn	07/22/2016	Glen Ellyn, IL
Wilmette SummerFest	07/22/2016	Wilmette, IL
Mount Prospect Block Party	07/22/2016	Mount Prospect, IL
Taste of River North	07/22/2016	Chicago, IL
North Shore Festival of Art	07/23/2016	Skokie, IL
Chicago Craft Beer Festival	07/23/2016	Chicago, IL
Puerto Rican Heritage Festival	07/23/2016	Aurora, IL
Sheffield Music Festival & Garden Walk	07/23/2016	Chicago, IL
Geneva Art Fair	07/23/2016	Geneva, IL
Taste of Latin America	07/23/2016	Chicago, IL
Veggie Fest	07/23/2016	Lisle, IL

Traffic Restrictions & Road Projects

Closures are in place for Lollapalooza throughout Grant Park, though the festival does not begin until Thursday, July 28.

From IDOT: Lane closures will take place on Higgins Road (Illinois 72) from Lexington Drive to east of Interstate 290, in Schaumburg, beginning, weather permitting, Friday, July 22. Daily and nightly lane closures will take place on Higgins Road from Lexington Drive to east of Interstate 290 including east and west Interstate 290/Illinois 53 Frontage Roads and the northbound Interstate 290/Illinois 53 exit ramp at Higgins Road.

CTA and Public Transit Weekend Alerts

BLUE LINE
Tue, Jul 19 to Mon, Sep 19 or completion

Cumberland Blue Line Station North Street-to-Bridge Elevator Out of Service

How does this affect my trip?
The north street-to-bridge elevator at Cumberland station is temporarily out of service.

Entry/exiting from the Cumberland Blue Line station is available by stairs and the south street-to-bridge elevator, or stairs, escalator or elevator from the bus terminal.

The elevator is estimated to return to service on Monday, September 19, 2016 (date subject to change).

Jul 22 – 23
10pm Fri to 5am Sat
10pm Sat to 6am Sun

Boarding Change, Delays Between Montrose and Addison
How does this affect my trip?
Board/exit all trains on the O’Hare-bound side of the platform at the Irving Park station.

Trains in both directions will operate on the same track between Montrose and Addison, resulting in minor delays.

Jul 24 – 25
10pm Sun to 4am Mon

Boarding Change, Delays Between Irving Park and Logan Square

How does this affect my trip?
Board/exit all trains on the O’Hare-bound side of the platform at the Addison and Belmont stations.

Trains in both directions will operate on the same track between Irving Park and Logan Square, resulting in minor delays.
GREEN and PINK LINES
Jul 23 – 25
2am Sat to 4am Mon

Bus Substitution Between Clinton Station and the Loop

How does this affect my trip?
Shuttle buses will replace rail service between Clinton and Clark/Lake.

Pink Line trains will operate between 54th/Cermak and Clinton.

Green Line trains will operate between Harlem/Lake and Clinton, and between Ashland/63rd-Cottage Grove and the Loop. Trains will operate clockwise around the Inner Loop, on the side normally used by Orange and Pink line trains.

A shuttle train will operate counterclockwise around the Outer Loop, on the side normally used by Brown Line trains.
ORANGE LINE
Jul 24 – 25
10pm Sun to 4am Mon

Boarding Change, Delays between Kedzie and 35th/Archer

How does this affect my trip?
Board/exit all trains on the Midway-bound side of the platform at the Western station.

Trains in both directions will operate on the same track between Kedzie and 35th/Archer, resulting in minor delays.

Man with $320K worth of heroin arrested in Naperville

May 19, 2016 | WLSAM Staff

(CHICAGO) A man was arrested Tuesday in west suburban Naperville with more than $300,000 worth of heroin in his vehicle, police said.

Eduardo Lara Cardenas, 49, was charged with one felony count of unlawful possession with intent to deliver and one felony count of controlled substance trafficking, according to Naperville police.

Cardenas, of Elgin, was in vehicle that was stopped during a narcotics investigation at 2:30 p.m. near Center and School streets in Naperville, police said.

An Amtrak K9 unit alerted the police to the vehicle where officers found more than three pounds of heroin worth about $320,000, police said.

Court information for Cardenas was not immediately available.

What To Do This Weekend: May, 6th – 8th, 2016

May 3, 2016 | WLSAM Staff

For the Adults:

WHISKEY AND TEQUILA FEST
Saturday, May 7, 2016
Time: 12:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m.
Old Crow’s and Moe’s Cantina, River North, Chicago

Sample various whiskeys & tequilas with other whiskey & tequila enthusiasts while celebrating Cinco De Mayo & The Kentucky Derby! Over 50 unique whiskeys, bourbons, tequilas & mezcals available to sample.

Contests will be held for best Derby Hat & Best Sombrero, and all attendees will receive over $200 in “Freebies.”

Tickets are $60, and can be purchased at http://whiskeyandtequilafest.com/.

CHICAGO BEER CLASSIC

Saturday, May 7, 2016
Time: Various Sessions (visit website for details)
Soldier Field, Chicago

Chicago’s largest beer festival just got an upgrade…to Soldier Field.

The price of a general admission ticket includes, but is not limited to, 48x two-ounce samples, a Chicago Beer Classic signature tasting cup, limited-release beers on the grass of Soldier Field, a fully-loaded pretzel necklace making experience, activities and beer education.

Also offered, a Stadium Tour during the event available for an extra $10 at the event or as an add on to the ticket purchase.

Tickets are selling out quickly at http://chicagobeerclassic.com/.

LADY – A WOMEN’S EXPO
Saturday, May 7, 2016
Time: 9:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.
Tinley Park Convention Center, Tinley Park

Women looking for a “Girls Day Out,” can head to this free event where there will be a variety of vendors, entertainment and activities for women.

Features include fashion shows, shopping, wine tasting, home improvement and remodeling vendors just to name a few. Mrs. Illinois International 2016 – Nicole Zwiercan will also have a meet and greet!

Free gift bags will be give to the first 500 attendees. More information can be found at the event planner’s Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/22CMevents/

SUPERCAR SATURDAYS AUTO SHOW
Saturday, May 7, 2016
Time: 8:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
Bolingbrook Promenade, Bolingbrook

Car owners are urged to bring their prized vehicles out the morning of May 7 for the first Supercar Saturdays event of 2016. The diverse event “welcomes everything from classics and muscle cars to exotics and modified contemporary cars.”

The event is not limited to car owners, as enthusiasts and families are encouraged to join. RSVP for the FREE event at: http://www.supercarsaturdays.com/rsvp.asp

Immediately following the Supercar Saturdays event on May 7th, all participants and spectators are invited to Drive to Autobahn Country Club for a complementary car show, a touring session on track, autocross, and karting.

For the Kids:

FAIRY FESTIVAL – JOLIET
Saturday, May 7, 2016
Time: 9:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.
Pilcher Park, Joliet

The Joliet Park District is hosting Fairy Fest at Pilcher Park. Families can “enjoy fairy flower walks, discover fairy food, make enchanted crafts and see entertainment from winged hostesses!”

It is urged to come “dressed in wings” because there will be wand making for all ages.

Regular admission is $10.

Breakfast with the Fairies runs from 9:30 a.m. – 11:00 a.m., costs $15, and includes admission to the Fairy Festival following the breakfast.

Registration can be found by clicking here or visit www.jolietpark.org.

CHICAGO KIDS AND KITES FESTIVAL
Saturday, May 7, 2016
Time: 10:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.
Cricket Hill at Lincoln Park, Chicago

The city of Chicago will provide kite kits for children to build, decorate and fly at the park near Montrose Harbor for the event’s 18th year. Admission is free!

Other activities include face painting, balloon artists and crafts.

For complete details, visit www.chicagokidsandkites.us

Delays on the Red & Blue lines expected, construction on I-55 at Lake Shore Drive and parade Closures in the loop.

Compiled by Jen DeSalvo for the Big John Howell Show on WLS-AM 890.

Wheaton Express DMV Office to Close

Mar 15, 2016 | WLSAM Staff

By Jennifer Keiper, WLS-AM 890 News

(WHEATON) A west suburban drivers license facility will shutdown next week.

If you ever use the the express driver services facility in Wheaton to renew your license or get a disabled parking placard, you’ll have to find a somewhere else to do it now.

The Secretary of State’s office says the landlord didn’t want to renew the lease. So, the facility at 128 West Liberty Drive will close at the end of the business day on March 24.

You can use DMV facilities in Lombard, Aurora, and Naperville.

© WLS-AM 890 News, 2016

Man robs Naperville bank

Feb 3, 2016 | WLSAM Staff

Surveillance footage of a man suspected in a Naperville bank robbery Monday. | FBI

(NAPERVILLE) A man robbed a U.S. Bank branch in west suburban Naperville Monday evening, according to the FBI.

The man, thought to be in his 60s, walked into the bank at 3115 111th St. in Naperville at 6:24 p.m. and made off with an undisclosed amount of cash, authorities said. He didn’t show a weapon and no one was hurt.

He is described as a white man with a medium build, wearing a multi-colored golf hat, a dark blue jacket, blue jeans and white tennis shoes.

Anyone with information should call the FBI at (312) 421-6700.

13 arrested, luxury cars seized as police bust Naperville gambling ring

Aug 21, 2015 | WLSAM Staff

(NAPERVILLE) A months-long investigation into an illegal gambling ring in west suburban Naperville resulted in 13 arrests Wednesday, and the seizure by police of $25,000 in cash and three luxury cars.

The arrests came as investigators executed search warrants at a business suite at 1163 E. Ogden Ave., according to a statement from Naperville police. A pain clinic previously occupied that space.

During the bust, police seized about $25,000 in cash and three luxury cars — a 2011 Porsche Panamera, a 2014 E63 AMG Mercedes and a 2015 Lamborghini Huracan, the statement said.

In all, 11 people face misdemeanor counts of gambling, police said. They include:

Vu Trong Hoang, 36, of Chicago;
Aki Nakagawa, 33, of Chicago;
Kevin L. Janowiak, 53, of Mount Prospect;
Phillip L. Nguyen, 43, of Naperville;
David A. Mirshak, 37, of Belvidere;
Ioannis T. Tsombanidis, 59, of Scottsdale, Ariz.;
William F. Gutzman, 33, of Bensenville;
Daniel B. Wandling, 30, of Chicago;
Lawrence P. Costigan, 50, of Palatine;
Michael J. Lemberger, 40, of Naperville; and
Julian R. Lukban, 40, of Chicago.

Hoang, Nakagawa, Janowiak and Nguyen are also charged with felony counts of possession of a controlled substance, police said.

Two other people were arrested Wednesday in connection with the gambling ring, but face other charges, police said.

Asad Yusuf, 42, of Naperville, was arrested on a warrant for failure to appear in court in a traffic case, police said. Amber Ray, 33, of Cortland, was ticketed for violating the city’s gambling ordinance.

Illinois State Police, the DuPage Metropolitan Enforcement Group and Naperville police investigated the case for five months, the statement said.

The investigation is ongoing and more arrests and charges are “imminent,” according to police.

Three rescued after raft flips on DuPage River near Naperville Riverwalk

Jun 17, 2015 | WLSAM Staff

(NAPERVILLE) Three people were rescued Tuesday after their raft flipped on the DuPage River near the Naperville Riverwalk in the western suburb.

Two passersby called 911 just before 4:15 p.m. after they saw three people fall into the water from the raft near the 400 block of Aurora Avenue, fire officials said.

When emergency officials arrived, two people had made it out of the river but a 19-year-old man had climbed into a nearby tree, officials said.

Firefighters placed swift water technicians downstream as safety swimmers, and rescued the man using a boat tethered to a rope system, officials said.

He was brought safely to shore by 5:25 p.m., officials said. All three people were evaluated by paramedics and did not need to be taken to a hospital.

No firefighters were hurt during the rescue, officials said. Crews rom nearby Lisle, Woodridge, Downers Grove and Aurora assisted in the specialized water response.

Naperville firefighter hurt after floor collapses in burning home

Jun 8, 2015 | WLSAM Staff

(NAPERVILLE) A Naperville firefighter was injured after the first floor of a burning home he was inside collapsed, causing him to fall to the basement.

Firefighters responded to the blaze about 10 a.m. Sunday in the 7S600 block of Olesen, according to a statement from the Naperville Fire Department.

Fire crews entered the wood frame home through the front door to begin an interior attack and search for occupants. About 20 minutes later, a firefighter fell through the main floor and into the basement of the home.

Rescue crews rushed to remove him and he was taken to Edward hospital in Naperville, where he was treated for minor injuries and released.

The blaze was struck out at 11:35 a.m. and no one else was injured, fire officials said.

The cause of the fire was not immediately known.

Roadwork to reduce North Aurora Road to one lane in Naperville

May 6, 2015 | WLSAM Staff

(NAPERVILLE) Roadwork in west suburban Naperville will require a major traffic pattern shift on North Aurora Road starting Thursday and lasting through September.

A new traffic pattern will be installed on North Aurora Road, reducing it to a single lane in each direction near Illinois Route 59, according to a statement from the Illinois Department of Transportation. Both eastbound and westbound traffic will have a dedicated left turn lane at Route 59.

The traffic shift is part of an ongoing road reconstruction project along Route 59 intended to increase the road’s capacity, reduce the potential for crashes and relieve traffic congestion, according to IDOT.

Drivers are advised to allow extra travel time for the duration of the project, which should be finished by the end of September.

Roadwork to reduce Route 59 to one lane in Naperville, Aurora

Apr 28, 2015 | WLSAM Staff

(NAPERVILLE) Roadwork on Illinois Route 59 will require a major traffic pattern shift in the west suburbs starting Wednesday and lasting through September.

The new traffic pattern will be installed on northbound Route 59 in Naperville and Aurora, reducing the road to a single lane between Jefferson Avenue/Liberty Street and North Aurora Road, according to a statement form the Illinois Department of Transportation.

Southbound lanes will remain unchanged, IDOT said.

The work is intended to increase the road’s capacity, reduce the potential for crashes and relieve traffic congestion, according to IDOT. Drivers are advised to allow extra travel time for the duration of the project, which should be finished by the end of September.

Five charged in string of west suburban car burglaries

Jan 24, 2015 |

(BATAVIA) Five Naperville residents are charged in a string of vehicle burglaries throughout the Tri-Cities area in the western suburbs, and some victims may get their items back, according to police.

They were arrested after a resident in the 600 block of Blackhawk Drive in Batavia saw them trying to break into a neighbor’s vehicle about 3:51 a.m., Batavia police said in a statement.

The group drove off when the resident confronted them, but officers were able to find their vehicle using a partial license plate number, police said.

Police stopped the vehicle in the 400 block of Main Street and found five people inside, as well as numerous items stolen from vehicles, authorities said. They claim the group is responsible for burglarizing unlocked cars throughout Batavia, St. Charles and Geneva.

All five suspects live in Naperville, and are charged with seven counts each of felony burglary to a motor vehicle, police said. They include:

• Christine L. Flood, 19, of the 1000 block of Mill Street;

• Amanda E. Gonzalez, 20, of the 1100 block of North Mill Street;

• Julian P. Pecoraro, 19, of the 500 block of Cassen Road;

• Brennan M. Rafferty, 19, of the 700 block of Benedetti Drive; and

• Austin J. Smith, 21, of the 1800 block of Hilltop Court.

All five were taken to the Kane County Jail and will appear in court for a bond hearing Saturday, police said.

Police have recovered a large quantity of stolen items in the case. Anyone who had items stolen from their vehicles should contact their local police department to file a report.

The investigation is ongoing as additional victims come forward to claim their belongings, police said.

Reward offered in Naperville bar burglary

Jan 23, 2015 |

(NAPERVILLE) A reward is being offered for information leading to the arrest of the suspect who burglarized a west suburban Naperville bar in November.

Sometime between Nov. 26 and Nov. 27, Thanksgiving Day, someone forced entry into Peanuts Bar & Grill, 22 W. Chicago Ave., and stole “a large amount of cash” from the restaurant’s office, according to a statement from Naperville Crime Stoppers.

The burglary most likely occurred after 2 a.m., when the bars were closed for the evening, the statement said.

Anyone with information on the burglary should call Crime Stoppers at (630) 420-6006. Callers can remain anonymous and qualify for a reward of up to $1,000 for information leading to an arrest.

Should high school students be subject to random drug tests?

Apr 3, 2013 |

Naperville weighs drug tests at high schools

Officials say marijuana use 'rampant,' consider random screening for athletes, others in extracurricular activities

From the Chicago Tribune:

By Melissa Jenco, Chicago Tribune reporter
6:57 p.m. CDT, April 2, 2013

Some high school athletes in Naperville may eventually be subjected to random drug tests.

Officials from Naperville North and Central high schools say marijuana use has become "rampant," and they would like to be more proactive.

The issue came up as a committee of administrators, coaches, parents and students performed an annual review of Naperville Unit District 203's co-curricular code.

"The code isn't always acting as the deterrent that we'd like it to," Bob Ross, assistant superintendent for secondary education, told the school board this week.

Ross said group members asked what could be done to make it easier for students to make good decisions and would like to explore the possibility of random drug tests. The tests would apply not only to athletes but to students involved in other extracurricular activities as well.

Naperville North Athletic Director Jim Konrad said there have been 30 violations of the co-curricular code at his school this year, of which 24 were marijuana-related.

"Our biggest concern is the pressure on kids is pretty severe now," Konrad said. "Marijuana is rampant in the schools. If there's anything we can do to assist parents and assist the kids to say no, I think it's a positive thing."

Central Athletic Director Andy Lutzenkirchen characterized the problem at his school in the same way.

Board member Terry Fielden asked whether students caught with drugs in their systems would be turned over to police.

"I don't think I could support anything other than giving them help and trying to get them some benefit from it as opposed to some other action," he said.

Konrad said the code currently calls for students who are caught using drugs to be referred to a drug and alcohol counselor in addition to being suspended from extracurricular participation. Officials said they have not discussed whether there would be any legal consequences.

Board member Susan Crotty said she was not yet taking a position on the proposal but believes the line between parenting and the actions of school officials seems to blur.

Konrad said that while some parents think the code should be done away with entirely, others say they like being able to remind their children their actions can affect their ability to participate in their sport or activity.

School board President Mike Jaensch said that in his eyes, drug testing would be "a tool for the parent first and foremost with our support."

Konrad and Lutzenkirchen plan to talk to other districts about whether they drug test and how they go about doing so. Officials also will research legal and privacy issues as well as costs.

The district plans to continue the discussion at the June 17 school board meeting.

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