Rachel Bogart
I'm a college student from the Chicago suburbs with a passion for environmental issues. I've had my writing featured on the front page of Yahoo! and have had my work included in the EPA's Science Matters newsletter.
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I may not agree with a word you say, but I'll fight to the death your right to say it.
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Illinois Senate, House Approve $1.6B In Cuts to MedicaidThe Illinois Senate and House have approved a measure that would slash $1.6 billion worth of funding to the state's Medicaid program.
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Illinois House Passes State Gambling Expansion BillIn a 69-47 vote, the Illinois House passed a bill that would drastically expand gambling in the state.
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Illinois House Approves Bill to Allow Recordings of Police OfficersIn a 71-45 vote, the Illinois House approved a bill that would allow citizens to make audio recordings of police officers on duty in public places.
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Coalition: Illinois is Tapping into Road Funds for Other IDOT ExpensesA coalition has reported that Gov. Quinn's proposal includes diverting $250 million from the state road fund to be used for other IDOT expenses like employee health care.
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Chicago Police Union Files Grievance Over NATO Overtime PayThe Fraternal Order of Police filed a grievance after receiving numerous complaints over the Chicago Police Department denying compensatory time off as an option.
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Illinois Considers Allowing Miniature Horses as Services AnimalsIf a bill is passed into law, disabled individuals could use miniature horses as service animals.
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Emanuel Announces New Crime-Fighting StrategyAmid a 52 percent increase in homicides, Mayor Rahm Emanuel announced a new strategy to help reduce crimes in at-risk neighborhoods.
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Emanuel Announces $200 Million Cargo Center at O'HareO'Hare Airport is set to get a new $200 million cargo center that will help the city compete in today's economy while creating over 11,000 jobs.
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Gov. Quinn Only Spent 40 Nights in Executive Mansion in Past YearA recent analysis of Gov. Quinn's personal schedule revealed that he only spent 40 nights at the Executive Mansion in Springfield, the governor's official home, between March 2011 and March 2012.
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Chicago Transit Plan Would Overhaul Public SafetyThe Chicago Department of Transportation has released a comprehensive plan and goals list that seeks to drastically overhaul the safety of pedestrians, bicyclists, and drivers throughout Chicago.
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Rattlesnake Could Receive Endangered Species ProtectionsThe U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service has agreed to review the conservation status of the eastern diamondback rattlesnake in order to determine whether the snake is eligible for federal protection.
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Illinois House OKs Plan to End Free Retired State Worker Health CareIn a 74-43 vote, the Illinois House of Representatives approved a measure that would end free healthcare for retired state workers.
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Group Upset After Chicago Revokes NATO Protest PermitThe nation's largest nurses union had their NATO protest permit revoked and parade route changed by the city, a move which may bring legal action.
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Mayor Emanuel Supports Pension Overhaul in SpringfieldChicago Mayor Rahm Emanuel traveled to Springfield to speak about the pension crisis and Chicago's own struggles with the growing pension shortfall.
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Japan is Nuclear-Free After Shutting Down Last ReactorAfter shutting down the last operating nuclear energy reactor for maintenance, Japan is officially nuclear-free.
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CTA Announces Replacement of Rotting Brown Line PlatformsCTA officials announced that the CTA will be replacing the rotting wooden platforms at three more Brown Line stations in an effort to improve safety.
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Chicago Reveals Long List of Restrictions, Closures for NATO SummitChicagoans and tourists should expect to plan accordingly as city officials and the U.S. Secret Service reveal a lengthy list of restrictions and closures set for the NATO summit.
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Federal Government Proposes New Fracking Chemical Disclosure RulesIf finalized, new fracking chemical disclosure rules would require all companies drilling on public or tribal lands to publicly disclose fracking chemicals, but only after they're injected into the ground.
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Mayor Emanuel Refuses to Pay $14 Million Meter Parking BillMayor Rahm Emanuel is criticizing and refusing to pay a $14 million bill that Chicago Parking Meters LLC says is owed from the city taking metered parking spots out of service.
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Illinois Legislative Scholarship Program Nears End with Senate VoteIn a 43-5 vote, the Illinois Senate has decided to approve a bill that seeks to end the state's legislative scholarship program, a program that has been criticized for years following several incidents of abuse.
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Chicago, Union Reach Agreement on Streets and Sanitation PayIn a landmark agreement, Chicago Mayor Rahm Emanuel and union leaders have reached an agreement on pay for new streets and sanitation workers, a move that will save the city $30 million and create more jobs.
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Study Finds Increased Warming Over Wind FarmsA study that looked over satellite data has concluded that the ground temperature over large wind farms was on average 0.72 degrees Celsius warmer than nearby areas without wind farms.
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Ex-Gov. George Ryan May Get New Trial After Supreme Court RulingFormer governor of Illinois and convicted felon George Ryan may get a new trial after the Supreme Court decided to uphold his appeal.
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CTA Red Line Stations to Undergo $86 Million in Repairs, ImprovementsOn Friday, Gov. Pat Quinn, Mayor Rahm Emanuel, and Sen. Dick Durbin announced that seven stations on the CTA Red Line would be undergoing $86 million in major repairs and improvements.
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Illinois Law Enforcement Officials Criticize Preschool Funding CutsNumerous law enforcement officials and state prosecutors have stepped forward to criticize funding cuts to preschools in Illinois.
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Nobel Peace Prize Winners Discuss Global Issues at Chicago SummitAs Nobel Peace Prize laureates gathered for the first day of the summit in Chicago, many spoke about some of the toughest issues facing the world and the U.S.'s role in foreign affairs.
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Gov. Quinn Proposes Major Changes to Illinois PensionsIllinois Gov. Pat Quinn announced numerous new proposals to help save the state's pension system from going under.
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Illinois Housing Sales End 20-Month DeclineData from the Illinois Association of Realtors shows that the housing market in the state bounced back significantly last month after 20 months of price declines.
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Chicago Retail Sales Up 5 Percent Last YearA new report indicates that retail sales in Chicago jumped by 5 percent last year, concluding that the retail industry is bouncing back from the recession.
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Poll: More Americans Link Global Warming with Extreme Weather EventsA new poll released today has found that more Americans believe global warming plays a part in the severity of extreme weather events, including droughts, flooding, and temperature records.
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EPA: 2010 U.S. Greenhouse Gas Emissions Increased 3.2 PercentThe Environmental Protection Agency announced that greenhouse gas emissions in the U.S. increased by 3.2 percent between 2009 and 2010.
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Chicago Receives $10 Million Grant to Clean Up Chicago RiverThe state of Illinois is giving the Windy City a large grant to help reduce the amount of bacteria entering the Chicago River through partially treated sewage.
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Mayor Emanuel Asks for New Law to Crack Down on Gang ViolenceChicago Mayor Rahm Emanuel is calling upon the Illinois General Assembly to pass a law that would allow those directly or indirectly involved in gang activity to be prosecuted for racketeering crimes.
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Mayor Emanuel, CPS Agree to Scale Back Longer School DayElementary students will only be in class 7 hours instead of 7 1/2 after parent groups discussed the plans and their opinions with the mayor.
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EPA Says Dimock Water Safe After New Fracking Test Results ReleasedWith new fracking test results being released, the EPA stands behind its claim that water in Dimock, Penn. is safe and is not contaminated with fracking waste.
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USGS: Rise in Earthquakes Follows Increase in Oil, Natural Gas ProductionThe U.S. Geological Survey's new report finds a link in the recent rise in earthquakes and increased oil and natural gas production in the country.
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Gov. Quinn Grants 52, Denies 136 Clemency RequestsRight before the Easter holiday, Gov. Quinn responds to over 188 petitions for clemency for crimes ranging from domestic battery to drug offenses dating back between 1958 and 2003.
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Eight Illinois Salmonella Cases Confirmed in Nationwide OutbreakEight people were reported to have salmonella in the wake of a nationwide outbreak last month, according to health officials. Contaminated sushi may have been to blame.
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Illinois General Assembly Rushes to Approve Fracking BillsBoth the Illinois House and Senate are rushing to push through a series of bills that would put safeguards in place for hydraulic fracturing for natural gas, which is set to begin in the state next month.
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Chicago to Open Tourism Offices in Brazil, Japan, GermanyAs a way to boost tourism significantly in the Windy City, Mayor Rahm Emanuel announced that the city will be expanding its tourism offices to three new countries.
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Cubs, City Near Deal on Wrigley Field RenovationsChicago Mayor Rahm Emanuel announced today that the city is nearing a final deal with the Chicago Cubs over costly renovations at Wrigley FIeld.
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Environmental Organization Files Lawsuit Over Solar Energy ProjectThe Natural Resources Defense Council has filed a lawsuit against several federal government agencies over the potential impacts a solar energy project would have on endangered species.
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Illinois Beach State Park Finally ReopensAfter months of storm damage clean-up, Illinois Beach State Park reopens just in time for the camping season.
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CPS, Teachers Union Negotiations UnderwayChicago Public Schools and the Chicago Teachers Union are negotiating a series of topics and while one aspect of teacher evaluations have been approved, the debate continues on salaries and other heavy issues.
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Scientists Find Link Between Pesticides and Bee Colony DeclinesTwo separate studies have found that pesticides may be the link between the drastic decline in bee populations in numerous areas of the globe.
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Chicago Schools Face $700 Million Budget Gap for 2013Chicago Public Schools will have an estimated $700 million budget shortfall for fiscal year 2013, which is expected to widen to $1 billion by 2014.
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Illinois House Passes Proposal to Charge Admission Fees at State ParksVisitors at Illinois' state parks could be charged a daily admission fee under a new proposal that has been passed by the House of Representatives.
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Protests Over Trayvon Martin Case Spread to ChicagoWith the killing of 17-year-old Trayvon Martin sparking controversy and public outrage across the country, protests and the spread of awareness are also taking place in Chicago.
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2 Percent of Collectors Discovering Over Half of Plant SpeciesA study has found that only a select few plant collectors are the ones discovering over 50 percent of total plant species, leaving strong implications on how scientists can find out more about biodiversity.
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Illinois to Launch Online Lottery Sales on SundayIllinois will become the first state in the nation to let residents purchase lottery tickets online beginning this Sunday, just in time for the one of the largest Mega Million jackpots in history.
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Judge: EPA Overstepped Authority in Revoking Coal Mining PermitA federal judge has ruled that the EPA overstepped its authority when it revoked a mountaintop removal coal mining permit for Arch Coal Inc.
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Mayor Emanuel Calls on Chicagoans to Help End Gang ViolenceAfter numerous shootings and deaths in a short time frame, Chicago Mayor Rahm Emanuel is calling upon residents to help police tackle gang violence in their neighborhoods.
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Illinois House Votes to Abolish Abused Legislative Tuition WaiversFor the second time since 2010, the Illinois House has voted to end the controversial legislative tuition waiver program.
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Report: Illegal Logging Claims Football Field of Forest Every 2 SecondsA report from the World Bank has concluded that a football field worth of forest is lost every two seconds due to illegal logging operations across the globe.
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Study Links Airborne Fracking Chemicals to Health IssuesA study conducted by the Colorado School of Public Health found that residents living near fracking wells were at higher risk for cancer as well as non-cancer health issues.
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Chicago Denies Changes to NATO Protest PermitThe city of Chicago has denied a protest organization's application to move their rally to May 20 following the relocation of the G-8 summit.
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CPS Plans to End Columbus, Pulaski Day Met with OppositionItalian and Polish community leaders are firing back at CPS' plans to end school closures on two statewide holidays that celebrate ethnic icons.
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Chicagoland Foreclosure Rates Increased by 42 Percent in FebruaryDespite being lower than January, this past February's foreclosure rates in the Chicagoland area increased by 42 percent over the previous year.
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Blagojevich Speaks Once More Before Leaving for PrisonIn his final words to the public, Blagojevich thanked his supporters, highlighted his accomplishments, and acknowledged his failures. Still maintaining he's innocent, the ex-governor is set to be in prison on Thursday.
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Chicago to Invest $290 Million in Park ImprovementsChicago will be putting $290 million towards major park renovations and improvements that will give more recreational opportunities to communities while beautifying the city's parklands.
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Gov. Quinn Criticizes FEMA's Decision to Deny Illinois Tornado AidGov. Pat Quinn, along with both Illinois senators and the mayor of Harrisburg, are speaking out against FEMA's decision to provide the state aid after a tornado and storms ripped through several southern counties.
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Support Grows to Eliminate Most Free Disabled Parking in ChicagoChicago Mayor Rahm Emanuel and Illinois Secretary of State are offering support for a measure that would eliminate free meter parking for most disabled-parking placard and plate holders to cut down on fraud.
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NATO Summit to Bring Chicago River, Lake Michigan ClosuresAs a way to increase security, the Coast Guard will periodically shut down access to boat travel on the Chicago River and areas of the Lake Michigan shoreline.
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Island Nation May Move Population to Fiji Due to Climate ChangeAs sea levels rise from climate change, the Pacific island nation of Kiribati may purchase land in Fiji to relocate its nearly 100,000 citizens.
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Illinois Plan to Tax Strip Clubs $5 Per Person Moves to SenateAfter Super Tuesday failed to yield any concrete results as to who will be the Republican presidential candidate, Illinois' March 20 primary will serve as a battleground with 54 delegates up for grabs.
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Chicago Police Stats Show Faster Response to 911 CallsNewly released statistics from the Chicago Police Department show that officers are responding quicker to 911 calls, with priority one emergency calls being responded to 13 percent faster than last year.
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CTA Recalled New "L" Cars for Defective Parts, Derailment RiskAfter recalling the new 5000 series "L" train cars in December, the CTA admits that defective steel parts from China caused an increased risk of derailment and breaks.
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Abraham Lincoln's Tomb to Undergo $700,000 in RepairsAbraham Lincoln's tomb in Springfield, Illinois will undergo extensive renovations and repairs with the help of $700,000 in state funding.
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Illinois Tollway Reduces Fines, Launches Trip-Planning ToolAs a way to soften its image in light of the current toll fare hikes, the Illinois Tollway is reducing some fines for missed tolls and launching a website that lets drivers plan their trips and the associated toll costs.
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Chicago Police Superintendent Announces Major Department ChangesChicago Police Superintendent Garry McCarthy announced that three police district stations would close and more officers would be assigned to beat duty, all of which would help save the city up to $12 million per year.
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BP Reaches $7.8 Billion Settlement Over 2010 Gulf Oil SpillBP and a committee representing over 100,000 individuals impacted by the 2010 BP oil spill in the Gulf of Mexico reached a settlement for $7.8 billion. Other lawsuits are still underway.
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Concerns Surround Gov. Quinn's Proposed Prison System CutsIllinois Gov. Pat Quinn is proposing cutting the state correctional system's $1.2 billion budget by 9 percent through closing down numerous facilities. However, this has prompted concerns of safety and recidivism.
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Mayor Emanuel, President Clinton Announce $1.7 Billion Infrastructure TrustFinancial investments expected to total $1.7 billion will give the city the chance to begin making major infrastructure improvements, including an large energy efficiency project.
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Government Plans to Kill Barred Owls to Save Spotted OwlsUnder a new and controversial plan being made by the Obama administration, some barred owls would be killed in order to help the threatened northern spotted owl recover.
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Chicago Coal Plants Agree to Close Within Two YearsIn a deal arranged by Mayor Rahm Emanuel, both of Midwest Generation's coal plants in Chicago will close by the end of 2014. The coal plants have long been criticized for dirty emissions and harming residents.
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Shell, Nature Conservancy Partnership to Restore Small Texas IslandShell has donated $500,000 to the first phase of restoration efforts at Shamrock Island, a critical nesting habitat for birds that is quickly eroding away.
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Illinois Begins Early Voting for March 20 PrimaryEarly voting has begun in Illinois for the upcoming March 20 primary. New redistricting has caused some particularly heated races in the state.
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Study: Climate Change Could Wipe Out Hundreds of Bird SpeciesAn analysis of nearly 200 individual research reports concludes that climate change could cause 600 to 900 land bird species to go extinct.
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Chicago May Compensate Businesses for NATO/G-8 LossesThe city of Chicago is considering a plan that would compensate businesses in the Loop area for lost profit as a result of restricting public access during the NATO/G-8 summits this May.
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Chicago Eliminates Backlog of 9,000 PotholesSince mid-May, the city of Chicago has worked to eliminate the backlog of 9,000 potholes waiting to be filled in addition to repairing over 600,000 potholes in 2011.
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Environmental Groups Threaten to Sue EPA Over Proposed Ballast Water RuleStating that the EPA's proposed ballast water rules are too lax and aren't preventing the spread of invasive species in the Great Lakes and other US waters, environmental groups are threatening to sue the agency.
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Gov. Quinn to Propose Closing Tamms Maximum-Security PrisonSlated to give his budget address, Illinois Gov. Pat Quinn is set to propose closing down the state's super-maximum prison in Tamms to save about $26.6 million annually.
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Mayor Emanuel Challenges Chicago's 2010 U.S. Census ResultsChicago Mayor Rahm Emanuel and his administration are challenging the 2010 U.S. Census results, saying that the numbers don't account for as many as 2,350 residents.
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U.S. Forest Service: Climate Change Killing Alaska's Yellow CedarsThe U.S. Forest Service has confirmed that climate warming is impacting Alaska's ecologically and economically valuable yellow cedars, which rely on snow to insulate their shallow roots.
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Illinois Court: Tenured CPS Teachers Don't Have Rehire RightsThe Illinois Supreme Court has ruled that tenured teachers laid-off by CPS do not have a right receive preference for rehiring.
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Chicago Aldermen Propose Ban on Rowdy Protests at City Council MeetingsFour Chicago aldermen have proposed a ban on rowdy protests, including cheering, booing, and yelling, at City Council meetings, a proposal that comes as the city prepares for NATO/G8 protests this May.
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Chicago City Council Approves Fines for Stores Selling Banned Bath SaltsThe Chicago City Council has approved an ordinance that will help further tackle the problem of bath salt drug abuse in the city by specifically fining stores $500 to $1,000 every day they sell the banned product.
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Obama's Budget Seeks $300 Million for Great Lakes Restoration InitiativePresident Barack Obama has submitted a budget proposal that seeks to allot $300 million for environmental projects under the Great Lakes Restoration Initiative.
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Chicago Seeks State Tax Refunds to Collect Outstanding DebtsIndividuals and businesses owing outstanding parking tickets, fines, fees, and other bills could see their state income tax refunds garnished by the city if a new proposal is approved.
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11 States Sue EPA Over Delayed Soot Pollution StandardsA total of eleven states have filed a lawsuit against the EPA after the federal agency missed an October deadline to issue revised air quality standards for soot pollution.
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Mayor Emanuel Proposes State Gun Registry, $65-per-gun Fee in IllinoisUnder Chicago Mayor Rahm Emanuel's proposal, Illinois gun owners would be charged a registration fee of $65 per firearm in addition to registering each firearm with the state and renewing the registration every five years.
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U.S. Approves First Nuclear Reactor License Since 1978In a divided decision, the Nuclear Regulatory Commission has offered a license to Southern Company's plans to build two $14 billion nuclear reactors.
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Illinois to Receive $1 Billion in Multistate Mortgage SettlementIllinois will be receiving $1 billion as part of a $25 billion settlement involving numerous states and five of the biggest mortgage lenders in the country.
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Mayor Emanuel Pushes for Faster Travel Times to O'Hare and MidwayChicago Mayor Rahm Emanuel is discussing plans to cut travel times by up to 12 minutes between the city's two main airport and the Loop.
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Environmental Group Lists Best, Worst Congressional Voting RecordsThe League of Conservation Voters has released its annual rankings of the lawmakers with the best and worst environmental voting records.
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Gov. Quinn Signs Controversial Chicago Speed Camera BillAfter months of heated debate, Illinois Gov. Pat Quinn has signed a bill into law that will allow Chicago to place speed cameras near parks and schools.
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Chicago Health Centers Receive $1 Million for HIV TestingThe Chicago Department of Public Health announced that mental health and substance abuse centers in the city would be receiving federal funding to conduct HIV testing.
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New Illinois Law Requires More Transparency of School PerformanceA new law will give parents access to additional information on schools' performance, ranging from graduation rates to standardized test scores to teacher performance.
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Chicago Public School System Announces Guidelines for Longer School DaysFor the first time, CPS officials have released guidelines for what exactly the longer school days are to include. Among the details are mandatory recess for all elementary schools.
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Chicago Restores Monday Library Hours After Months of DebateAfter several months of debate and opposition, Chicago Mayor Rahm Emanuel has decided to restore Monday library hours by reallocating $2 million back to the library budget.
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Habitat for Endangered Leatherback Turtles DesignatedEndangered leatherback sea turtles gained new protections this week as the National Marine Fisheries designated more than 41,000 square miles as critical habitat.
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Illinois Considers Ban on All Cellphone Use While DrivingIf passed, a new bill would prohibit drivers from using handheld cell phones across the state. Illinois already has a ban on texting while driving.Also published on:
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Exxon Mobil to Pay $1.6 Million in Penalties for Yellowstone River Oil SpillExxon Mobil has reached an agreement with the Montana Department of Environmental Quality to pay $1.6 million in penalties for the Yellowstone River oil spill that sent more than 1,000 barrels into the river.
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Chicago Goes 24 Hours Without Any Shootings or MurdersThis past Wednesday was the first time Chicago went 24 hours without a single shooting or murder since early 2011.
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Obama Rejects Keystone XL Pipeline PlansAfter months of intense debate, GOP efforts to circumvent the administration, and changes in the route, President Obama has rejected TransCanada's Keystone XL pipeline plans.Also published on:
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Chicago Health Department Eases Rule for Complying Food EstablishmentsA Chicago City Council decision has eased Health Department rules, specifically that establishments with good records can report their own inspections to the city.
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U.S. Bans Four Snake Species to Protect Florida's EvergladesUnder a new ban, yellow anacondas, Burmese pythons, and northern and southern African pythons can no longer be imported or cross state lines. The decision came as an effort to protect the snake-plagued Everglades.
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How to Save Money When Applying for Graduate SchoolApplying for graduate school is a major step in your academic career, but it doesn't necessarily have to be an extremely costly one. Here are some ways to save money during the application process.
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Environmental Concerns Surround Italian Cruise Ship DisasterHolding close to 500,000 gallons of fuel, the ship-wrecked Costa Concordia now poses a potential environmental disaster to the pristine, protected sanctuary waters just off the coast of Tuscany.
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Chicago's Field Museum to Display Rare Mummies in New ExhibitA major, rare exhibit is heading to Chicago next month and will feature over 20 rare mummies from Egypt and Peru, some of which have not been on display since the World's Columbian Exposition in 1893.Also published on:
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Geothermal Project to Tap into Volcano for Energy ProductionA dormant volcano in Oregon is slated to be used for a geothermal energy project starting this summer. The project has already drawn in investments from Google and the Department of Energy.
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Chicago's South Side Irish Parade to Return This YearThree years after being cancelled due to safety concerns, Chicago South Side Irish St. Patrick's Day Parade will be returning this year on March 11.
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California Adopts New Energy Efficient Standards for Battery ChargersThe California Energy Commission has voted to require battery chargers to be more energy efficient, which will help save about $306 million a year in electricity bills.
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City Colleges of Chicago Ban All Tobacco UseFollowing a decision by the board of trustees, one of the nation's largest community college systems will begin banning all tobacco use on campuses on March 1.
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Chicago Loop on Lockdown During NATO, G8 SummitsWith the G-8 and NATO summits set to take place in late May, security is tightening even further. Motorist access to certain streets will be limited under the direction of the U.S. Secret Service.
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Report: Treated Wastewater Just as Safe to Drink as Existing Water SuppliesA report from the National Resource Council has found that treated wastewater is just as safe to drink, and in some cases may be safer, than water from existing supplies.
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Obama Visits Chicago for Campaign FundraisingWith election 2012 creeping closer, President Barack Obama is visiting his hometown for campaign fundraising at three different events in the Windy City.Also published on:
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Gov. Quinn Signs Expanded Earned Income Tax Credit BillA new law will help working and poor families by expanding the earned income tax credit. Overall it will help families keep about $100 each year.Also published on:
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Texas Drought Threatens Endangered Whooping CranesWith only about 300 whooping cranes remaining in the wild, scientists worry that the devastating drought in Texas could severely threaten the survival and slow recovery of this endangered species.
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Chicago Inches Closer to Breaking Record for Least SnowIf Chicago makes it to Jan. 16 without getting half-an-inch or more of measurable snow, the 2011-12 winter will break the city's record for least snowy start to winter.
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Scientists Look to European Bats for Answers on White Nose Fungus in U.S.Research on European bats that have survived a similar disease could provide answers to scientists looking to solve white nose syndrome, a disease that has killed over one million bats in the U.S.
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Illinois Sees Decreases in Pulled Over, Ticketed MotoristsState data shows that between 2008 and 2010, there was an 11 percent decrease in motorists receiving tickets and a 6 percent decrease in traffic stops.
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Snowy Owl Sightings Increase Dramatically Across the U.S.More and more snowy owls are being spotted across the upper half of the U.S. as these stunning, white birds head further south for feeding.
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Fish and Wildlife Service Permit Would Allow Wind-Energy Company to Kill Golden EaglesFor the first time ever the Fish and Wildlife Service has drafted a permit that would allow a wind energy company to legally kill several golden eagles as long as the company contributes to conservation efforts elsewhere.
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Mayor Emanuel Stands Behind Dramatic Changes to Taste of ChicagoThe city's signature food festival is getting some major changes, including a shift in dates and cutting the length from 10 days to just five.
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Ecuador Court Upholds $18 Billion Judgment Against Chevron for Oil PollutionA court in Ecuador has upheld a $18 billion judgment against Chevron for Texaco's dumping of toxic wastewater in the country over several decades.
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Chicago Launches Contest to Increase Dog RegistrationTo boost the number of registered dogs in the city, Chicago is launching a contest with privately-donated prizes including a gem-studded dog tag and a two night hotel stay.
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Food Industry, Farmers Urge EPA to Ease Dioxin GuidelinesThe food industry and farmers across the country are calling upon the EPA to ease their dioxin guidelines set to be released this month. The potentially-harmful chemical is found in meat and dairy products.
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Mayor Emanuel Announces $1 Million in Savings Through Recycling Program ChangesCompetitive bidding on recycling services is helping to save Chicago taxpayer's $1 million while extending the program to 120,000 additional households.
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O'Hare, Midway Airports to See 2.7 Million Holiday TravelersCity officials are estimating that Chicago will see 2.7 million travelers this holiday season, with Dec. 22 and 23 being the busiest days.
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Gov. Quinn Signs Bill to Avoid 1,900 Layoffs, Seven Facility ShutdownsIllinois Gov. Pat Quinn has signed into law a $270 million budget deal that will save 1,900 layoffs and prevent seven state facilities from being shut down until at least July 1.
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Seattle Bans Plastic Shopping BagsWith the goal of minimizing the impacts on landfills and the environment, the Seattle City Council has voted to ban single-use plastic bags in grocery stores and retail stores citywide.
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Key Report Assesses the Hurdles Facing Uranium Mining in VirginiaA report from the National Academy of Sciences notes that major hurdles exist for the state of Virginia if it chooses to lift a moratorium on uranium mining for nuclear energy production.Also published on:
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Mayor Emanuel -- Chicago is $8 Million Above Cost-Cutting GoalChicago Mayor Rahm Emanuel has announced that the city has saved $83 million by cutting costs, up $8 million from the original goal of $75 million.
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EPA Grants Joplin, Mo., $500,000 for Lead Contamination CleanupThe EPA is awarding Jopling, Missouri a $500,000 grant through the Superfund program in order to support clean up efforts aimed at lead contamination following the tornado in May.Also published on:
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Illinois Coal Plants Ahead of EPA's Proposed Mercury StandardsThrough a stricter state rule, Illinois coal plants are ahead of the EPA's proposed standards for mercury emissions by reducing emissions 44 percent between 2008 and 2010.Also published on:
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BP Reaches $250 Million Settlement with Cameron Over Gulf Oil SpillCameron International has agreed to pay BP $250 million for claims related to the April 2010 oil spill in the Gulf of Mexico.
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Illinois Loses Competition for $70 Million in Federal Education FundingIn another setback, Illinois has not been selected for the U.S. Department of Education's Race to the Top program, in which states competed for millions in funding for early education programs.
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EPA Inspector General Concludes EPA Allowed Unsafe Handling of AsbestosAn EPA inspector general has found that the EPA allowed employees and contracted workers to be exposed to asbestos while testing a removal method.Also published on:
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Illinois House Republicans Propose Cutting Corporate Income TaxIllinois House Republicans are proposing to cut back corporate income tax by more and at a quicker pace than proposed by Democrats and passed in January. The goal is to keep businesses in the state.Also published on:
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First Offshore Lease Auction Since BP Oil Spill Fetches $337.7 MillionThe federal government auctioned off 191 leases to drilling rights off the coast of Texas. This is the first time new leases have been sold since the BP oil spill in April 2010.Also published on:
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Chicago's Tougher Curfew Laws Lead to Over 600 More ViolationsStatistics from the mayor's office show that 4,740 children were caught for violating curfew laws between Sept. 18 and Dec. 5 following stricter curfew laws for children under 12.
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Study Concludes Greenland Lost 100 Billion Tons of Ice in Summer 2010A new report concludes that the Greenland Ice Sheet lost 100 billion tons of ice in addition to experiencing a 0.79-inch uplift of the bedrock from an unusually warm summer in 2010.Also published on:
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Illinois' Prepaid College Tuition Program May Need $1.6 Billion BailoutAfter controversial investment moves, halting the sale of new contracts, and funds looking to be drained by 2022, College Illinois! could need a $1.6 billion state bailout to stay afloat.
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Encana Criticizes EPA's Link Between Fracking, Groundwater ContaminationEncana Corp. is disputing the claims made by the EPA that a small Wyoming town's groundwater was contaminated by hydraulic fracturing practices.
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Mayor Emanuel Announces Reforms to Improve Taxi SafetyA series of reforms, including real-time monitoring of traffic tickets, looks to increase the safety of cabs operating in the city.
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New Rule in Endangered Species Act Clarifies ListingsA new interpretation of the Endangered Species Act by the Obama Administration would clarify listings and end state-by-state listings.
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Chicago Proposal Would Hike Fines for Drug, Gang, Gun Crimes Near SchoolsWith the goal of increasing safety near schools and parks, the Chicago City Council is pushing through an ordinance that would add on a $3,000 fine for weapons, drug, and gang offenses near these areas.
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Report: Pennsylvania, Ohio, Indiana Top Toxic Air Pollution EmittersA report from the Environmental Integrity Project ranks the states with the highest amounts of toxic air pollution, as well as the highest emitting power plants in the country.
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Chicago to Re-Brand City's Tourism IndustryIn an attempt to draw more visitors in, the Chicago Convention and Tourism Bureau announced plans to re-brand the city's tourism industry and launch a more extensive advertising campaign.
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Holiday volunteer opportunities in ChicagoFrom helping bring food to those in need to visiting with elderly residents, there are numerous volunteer opportunities in Chicago this holiday season.
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Illinois Residents React to Ex-Gov. Blagojevich's 14-Year Prison SentenceFormer Illinois Gov. Rod Blagojevich has been sentenced to 14 years in prison for a total of 18 convictions of federal corruptions.
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Brazilian Senate Decreases Amazon ProtectionsIn order to increase farmland in the country, the Brazilian Senate has voted 59-7 to pass a bill that would ease the Forest Code.
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BP Accuses Halliburton of 'Destroying Evidence'According to court filings, BP is accusing Halliburton for intentionally destroying evidence related to the Deepwater Horizon oil spill in April 2010.
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USDA Pledges $50 Million to Gulf RestorationAlong with the Gulf Coast Restoration Task Force's final report, the USDA announced it is pledging $50 million to restoration projects to help combat the effects of the oil spill and other ecological decline.
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Postal Service to Cut Processing Centers, Retail Centers in ChicagoIn the USPS's announcement to close locations, Chicago will see 3 processing centers and 12 retail locations close next year. First-class mail will also be delivered slower.
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Beat cabin fever with Chicago's outdoor winter activitiesWinter in Chicago doesn't have to be staying indoors until spring rolls around. Here are some ideas for activities that will get you out of the house even in the middle of winter.
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Federal Study: BP Oil Spill Impact on Bluefin Tuna is MinimalAn analysis released by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration projects that at most bluefin tuna will see a 4 percent decrease, but probably much less, in future spawning as a result of the BP oil spill.
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Report: Illinois Higher Education System Less Affordable, SuccessfulA study conducted by Ivy League researchers indicates that the higher education system in Illinois has taken a hit in affordability and accessibility following political corruption, an ineffective education board, and tuition hikes.
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Uncertainty Looms Over Kyoto Protocol Recommitment TalksDays into the talks in Durban, uncertainty over whether the Kyoto Treaty can be salvaged is rising, especially with some of the biggest players refusing to commit.Also published on:
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Blagojevich Allowed to Speak at SentencingConvicted on 18 charges of federal corruption, former Illinois Gov. Rod Blagojevich may take the stand one more time this week in hopes of receiving a lesser prison sentence.
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EPA Relaxes Industrial Boiler Emissions StandardsIn an attempt to reconcile the concerns of industry groups and Republicans, the EPA is reducing its standards on boiler emissions.Also published on:
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Mayor Emanuel to Build Off Daley's Plan to End Homelessness in ChicagoChicago Mayor Rahm Emanuel has announced he will launch the 2.0 version of former Mayor Richard M. Daley's plans to eradicate homelessness in the Windy City.
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EPA Proposes New Ballast Water StandardsFollowing years of lawsuits, the EPA is beefing up its rules to combat the spread of invasive species brought to the U.S. through ballast water.Also published on:
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Chicago Aldermen Continue Battle Over New Ward MapEven though Dec. 1 was the statute deadline, the Chicago City Council is still battling out attempts to re-map the city's wards based on the new Census information, though the move could cost tax payers millions.
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U.N. Report Indicates 2011 to Be One of the Hottest Years on RecordA report from the United Nations indicates that 2011 is likely to be one of the ten hottest years on record, one marked by numerous extreme weather events.
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Report: Chicago Charter Schools Performing Same or Below Traditional Public SchoolsNewly released testing statistics show that many Chicago charter schools are performing just as poorly, or worse than, traditional public schools.
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Million-Ton Carbon Sequestration Project Underway in IllinoisA project being managed by the Illinois State Geological Survey will sequester one million tonnes of carbon from Archer Daniels Midland in Decatur, Illinois.
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Illinois Allows Civil Union Couples to Jointly File Tax ReturnsThe Illinois Revenue Department has announced that civil union couples can jointly file their 2011 state tax returns.
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Countries Begin Talks to Save Kyoto ProtocolNumerous countries are meeting in Durban, South African Nov. 28 through Dec. 9 in an effort to save the Kyoto Protocol and the international commitment to reducing climate change.
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Illinois Lawmakers to Consider Expanding Tax Credits for FamiliesUnder a new measure, working Illinois families could see an expansion of available tax credits. The bill also includes tax breaks for two major Illinois companies.
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EPA Agrees to Consider Fracking Chemical Disclosure RulesFollowing a petition from Earthjustice, the EPA has decided to consider imposing rules on energy companies to disclose exactly what chemicals they use in their fracking practices.
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Mayor Emanuel to Light Daley Plaza Holiday TreeFor the first time in his career, Chicago Mayor Rahm Emanuel with light this year's holiday tree in Daley Plaza.
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Top 10 holiday gift ideas unique to ChicagoThere are numerous ways to gift the city to friends and family this holiday season. Here are the top 10 Chicago gift ideas.
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Nebraska Gov. OKs Alternative Keystone XL RouteNebraska Gov. Dave Heineman two bills that support an alternate route for the Keystone XL pipeline.
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CTA Safety Camera Installation Finished Six Weeks Ahead of ScheduleMore than 3,000 cameras have been installed at CTA stations around the city following a vow from the Mayor to improve safety.
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EPA Delays Proposal for Greenhouse Gas Standards AgainThe EPA is once again delaying its proposal that will outline new greenhouse gas emission standards for power plants and oil refineries.
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Lincoln Park Zoo Welcomes Newborn Endangered GorillaA newborn endangered gorilla was born at the Lincoln Park Zoo, making it the first endangered specie born at the zoo since 2005.
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Yellowstone Park Officials Release New Proposal for BuffaloA new proposal made by Yellowstone National Park officials would change the fate of 360 buffalo migrating this winter.
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Illinois Receives Highest Ranking from MADDIllinois' crackdown on drunk driving and reduction of impaired driving deaths has earned the state Mothers Against Drunk Driving's highest rating.
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Chevron Admits Guilt in Brazil Offshore Oil SpillChevron Corp. has accepted responsibility over an oil spill off the coast of Brazil that was a result of a miscalculation. However, problems are quickly adding up for the American oil giant.
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Illinois Board of Education Proposes New Teacher Evaluation CriteriaIf the state school board's proposal passes, student achievement will only count for 25 percent of a teacher's evaluation.
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Climate Change Panel Predicts More Intense Weather EventsA meeting of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change resulted in a report stating that the globe should expect to see more intense weather events, including heavy rainfall.
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Illinois Tollway Ends Free Tolls for EmployeesIllinois Tollway employees will now have to pay for their own tolls on the way to and from work in an effort to help save close to $500,000 in yearly revenue.
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EPA, Enbridge Disagree Over Oil Spill NumbersThe EPA and Enbridge, the Canada-based oil company responsible for a July 2010 oil spill in Michigan, disagree over just how much oil was spilled. The EPA's estimate is more than one third higher than Enbridge's.
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Chicago Set to Host World Summit of Nobel Peace LaureatesChicago has been selected to host next year's World Summit of Nobel Peace Laureates, the first time the summit has ever been held in North America.
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Court Rulings Deny BP from Transocean's Insurance Coverage for Oil SpillTwo court rulings determined that the BP oil spill in 2010 is not covered by Transocean's $750 million insurance policies. BP leased the Deepwater Horizon oil rig from Transocean and it looking to share the blame.
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Mayor Emanuel Proposes Ordinance to Tackle Illegal Handicap Placard UseChicago Mayor Rahm Emanuel has introduced an ordinance that would stiffen the penalties for those caught illegally using handicap placards.
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Study Highlights Successes of Regional Carbon Cap-and-Trade ProgramA study has concluded that the Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative has been successful at creating jobs, saving consumers money, and helping local economies.
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New Illinois Adoption Record Law Goes into EffectA new law in Illinois will allow adoptees to access their original birth certificate, including the names of their birth parents.
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Where to find organic holiday turkeys in ChicagoChoosing an organic turkey for your Thanksgiving table may seem like a daunting task, but several stores, farms, and delivery services are making things delicious and easy for Chicagoans.
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Chicago City Council to Ban Synthetic Marijuana SalesAfter a testimony by a woman who's son lost his life after consuming the imitation drug, the Chicago City Council is seeking to ban all synthetic marijuana sales in the Windy City.
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Ban on Chimpanzee Medical Testing Could Come Within a YearFierce opposition from animal advocacy groups and a measure in Congress could be enough to end medical testing on chimpanzees in the U.S.
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Chevron Halts Drilling Operations Following Brazil Oil SpillChevron announced that after an oil spill including 400-650 barrels, the company has stopped drilling for oil off the coast of Brazil.
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Whooping Cough Outbreak Strikes McHenry CountyA total of 79 cases of whooping cough have been confirmed in McHenry County, including infections among the general public.
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EPA, Wisconsin DNR Report No Health Impacts of Coal Ash Spill in Lake MichiganAfter an EPA report, the Wisconsin DNR is reporting that the coal ash spill from Milwaukee will have little environmental impacts and no human health impacts.
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Senate Defeats Measure to Block EPA Cross-State Pollution RuleThe U.S. Senate has defeated a measure that would block the EPA's rule that limits air pollution crossing state lines.
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Report: Chicago Police Issued 23,292 Cell Phone Tickets in 2010According to a report from the Chicago Tribune, the CPD issued over 20,000 cell phone tickets in 2010, up nearly 73 percent since the laws were put in place in 2006.
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Chicago's most extreme weatherAn overview of the most extreme and out-of-place weather events that have occurred in the Windy City.
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Continental, Alaska Airlines Launch First Biofuel-Powered FlightsContinental Airlines and Alaska Airlines made headlines by launching the first commercial biofuel-powered flights. Here are some facts about aviation biofuels.
