Heavy rain, gusty winds and large hail socked the Chicago area Tuesday, with tornadoes touching down in Iowa and Wisconsin.

2012: Dixon comptroller Rita Crundwell was arrested on charges of misappropriating more than $30 million in city money. She pleaded guilty in 2012 to stealing almost $54 million over 22 years from her northwestern Illinois city, best known as the boyhood home of former President Ronald Reagan.

Chicago Public Schools will be in session on May 1, International Workers’ Day, with classes focused on civic engagement and student voice, and a 1 p.m. rally at Union Park.

Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson warns of a potential teen takeover on the South Side, urging parents not to let children attend dangerous gatherings.

Going on tour with The Flaming Lips, appearances at Lollapalooza and Pitchfork and waking up in a Cracker Barrel parking lot to see the colorful orbs of Albuquerque’s International Balloon Fiesta filling the sky all provided rich song material.

Music from one of the most successful and influential bands of all time is set to rock an area stage. Chicago Transit – Tribute to Chicago will perform at 7:30 p.m. April 25 at Arcadia

Police say they have increased patrols since the fake report, which might carry criminal charges.

The Cubs offense came alive on their quick three-game trip to Philadelphia, where they recorded 30 hits and 21 runs in the final two games to secure the series victory. They return to Wrigley Field this weekend to face the reeling