For star athletes, the transition from college to work life comes with special challenges

By Brooke Rayford Many athletes who find success in college sports hope their talent leads them to a professional career.  But the statistics show that only a small percentage make it that far. And settling into the reality of life after sports can take some adjustment. As a key player on the 2010 BCS Champion team at Auburn University, Nosa […]

A first sign of spring: Morrie O’Malley’s Hot Dogs reopens for 28th season

By Brooke Rayford On his lunch break yesterday, Chicago native Anthony James enjoyed a warm, sunny day, a hot dog and a hamburger for the first time this year on the patio of Morrie O’Malley’s. The famous hot dog stand reopened for its 28th season on Monday to high temperatures and long lines, welcoming back […]

Starbucks closes in Uptown, but the coffee still pours

By Brooke Rayford The stretch of Wilson Avenue between Broadway and Clark Street has been hard for businesses lately. Within the last six months, three businesses on Wilson closed their doors: Harold’s Chicken Shack #42, Luna’s Spa and Salon and the Magnolia Cafe. And recently Starbucks announced it will close its store on Wilson Ave. on […]

Early morning ashes to go (VIDEO)

By Brooke Rayford In the early morning hours, Pastor Dwayne Grant and members of Xperience Church stood outside the 63rd Red Line stop, in below-20-degree weather, offering Ash Wednesday blessings for those “on the go.” [vimeo 154924876 w=474] This is the third year Pastor Grant has celebrated the Christian holy day outside a South/West side […]

Lawmakers and activists push for home service security (video)

By Brooke Rayford In bid to make home services more secure for seniors and the disabled, State Rep. Greg Harris, U.S. Rep. Jan Schakowsky and others announced their support for a proposed law. House Bill 4351 was originally created when Governor Rauner proposed a state budget that would cut aid for disabled and senior citizens […]

Brother Rice’s all-star alum hopes to follow in coach’s footsteps

By Brooke Rayford The first attempt to bring back a star alumnus was unsuccessful. For two seasons, Rick Harrigan led Brother Rice’s boys’ basketball team after longtime coach Pat Richardson retired. The Crusaders are taking another shot at a former standout with Bobby Frasor as the new coach.

Loyola and Stevenson repeat playoff match up (VIDEO)

By Brooke Rayford It is the second round of the high school football playoffs, and top teams in class 8A are keeping fans on the edge of their seats. Last year’s state champions, Stevenson High School, were almost eliminated in the first round last Friday against Conant High School. With Stevenson seeded No. 16 this […]

Mark made at Evanston, Michigan State next for Naquan Jones to tackle

By Brooke Rayford Evanston Township’s senior defensive tackle, Naquan Jones, is looking forward to his 2016-2017 football season. Growing up in a Big-Ten town, Michigan State has always been the school of his dreams. Jones said being a committed prospect will not keep him from finishing hard his senior season. “When you’ve committed, you’re held […]