We'll get to the All-Star lineups in a moment. First, who's stoked at the thought of hockey outside on New Years Day? The Tribune reports that the Black Hawks and Red Wings will face off at Wrigley Field in the follow-up to this year's amazing Penguins-Sabres matchup in Buffalo. It's yet another coup for the Hawks as they quickly climb back to respectability. Club President John McDonough lobbied NHL commissioner Gary Bettman for the game almost from the moment he signed on with the Hawks. more ›

If you’re looking for a little summertime fantasy amidst this arctic freeze we’re having, then head on over to McCormick Place for the 78th Annual Chicago Boat, RV and Outdoor Show, which is in its final day. New for this year is the Accessory Center, which highlights all the latest we need to bling our boats, from safety equipment to the latest in outdoor entertaining. You can also “test drive” a pair of Crocs, borrowing a pair while you’re at the show. more ›

Yesterday's big storm? Well, not as big as we had thought it would be. But 2,300 ComEd customers are without power on the South Side, there was some property damage downstate, and an 11-year-old on the West Side was struck by lightning. He's listed as being in good condition. Maybe they should take him to UIC's Lightning Injury Lab? We cannot recommend this reading list highly enough. What happens when people are struck by lightning?... more ›

City officials have been known to capture the excitement of a cultural festival by declaring “Today we are all Irish!” to a crowd in Beverly or “Today we are all Polish!” to Jefferson Parkers. It’s amusing to think we’ll hear a Commissioner proclaim “Today we are all gay!” when the Gay Games open Saturday night, but Mayor Daley expressed his more than symbolic support earlier this week, thanking the out and proud (and commerce seeking)... more ›

Even though it is clear that the only worthwhile game to hunt is obviously humans, people all over the country still hunt. In fact, it seems some of it is actually necessary. So, hunters, you’re in luck, because the Chicago Park District is about ready to allow specific hunting in one park. We’re out of luck, though, because it’s not the most dangerous game, it is deer. more ›