Thursday, February 09, 2012

Allison J. Althoff/MEDILL

Groupon, Inc. partnered with SmartDigital LLC last month to reach customers at physical kiosks located at strategic locations throughout Chicago.

Groupon fails to deliver: stock sinks in after-hours trading

by Allison J. Althoff

The reputation of Groupon Inc., the largest technology stock offering in U.S. history, suffered last year after regulators criticized its overzealous profit reporting. The Chicago-based daily deals marketer was expected to show its first profit in the fourth quarter but it disappointed Wall Street Wednesday when it reported a loss.

Violence reduction effort for two neighborhoods could hinder safety in others, residents say

by Jenna Barnes

The initiative has sent 100 police officers to two of the city's most violent districts, Englewood and Harrison. Residents in other neighborhoods are concerned about the drain on their police resources. But experts say to give this "hot spot" policing strategy a chance -- it could be just what the city needs to conquer rampant violent crime.

Interactive experiences highlight Chicago Auto Show

by Qixin Wang

At the Chicago Auto Show, manufacturers are offering interactive experiences and improved safety features.

Video: Auto show interactive displays

Phone subsidies for the needy: To cut or not to cut?

by Ben Schamisso

The telecom industry and associations representing poor Americans are fighting over FCC cuts of a growing fund for phones subsidies to the needy

Worn-down economy means cobbler's soleful experience

by Susanna Pak

Even if you don't have much money to spend, one of the best investments you can make might be for your tired soles - on your feet. Susanna Pak tells you how spending more on a pair of shoes pays off.

Video: See how the cobbling industry is faring

Unemployment rates high, but there's an upside

by Eryn Rogers

Presidential Candidate Mitt Romney released a number of ads attacking President Obama on his economic policies. Reporter Eryn Rogers did a bit of fact checking to see if Romney's statements on unemployment are true.

Video: Romney Fact Check

Chicago art students get creative at Marwen

by Sarah Eberspacher

A Chicago arts education center is celebrating 25 years of programming. The center is called Marwen, and it offers free classes to students in grades six through 12 whose families cannot afford to pay for art courses elsewhere.

Video: