By many accounts, both the federal government and British Petroleum have woefully underestimated the amount of oil that found its way into the Gulf of Mexico from the Deepwater Horizon well. The long term environmental ramifications of the spill cannot be predicted. But, if I can use my experience in the Persian Gulf nearly twenty years ago as a baseline of what to expect, it could be catastrophic. more ›

You probably noticed that the weather got more and more pleasant as the day went on yesterday. Temps cooled a tad, a breeze kicked in, and humidities lowered. It was a positive sign of things to come for the start of our week. Indeed, after the oppressive heat and humidity of last week, we've started off with a gorgeous morning that should give way to an equally fantastic afternoon. Highs today will cross 80 (the streak of days with highs over 80 continues) but they won't go much higher and with low humidities it'll be a welcome relief. Lows overnight will drop to the mid 60s so go ahead, grill out on a Monday night! Live a little! You deserve it! Just don't blame us for your Tuesday morning hangover. more ›

Cubs pitcher Carlos Zambrano is no longer an $18 million set-up man. Instead, he's now an $18 million long reliever. The move could signal a coming return to the starting rotation for Zambrano who was moved to the bullpen about a month ago in an experiment that, to be kind about it, has seen mixed results. Since his last start on April 20 in New York, Zambrano has pitched a total of 8.2 innings in eight games, allowing 15 hits, six runs for a 6.23 ERA, and struck out seven. In only two of those eight relief appearances has Zambrano thrown less than 20 pitches. Said Piniella of the move, "We thought the outcome would be a little different. He's not comfortable in the bullpen pitching short. We're going to use him in a different role, build up some stamina, build up his arm. That's what we're going to do." As for Zambrano, at least he's expressing a team-first attitude: "The boss wants me to close games, I'll close games, if the boss wants me to be a starter again, I'll be a starter again. It's up to them, their choice." more ›

Still looking for a way to help relief efforts in Haiti? Almost every major television and radio station in the Chicago area is participating in today's Chicago Helps Haiti Relief Drive. Donations will go to the American Red Cross's efforts to help Haiti. ABC 7 has a full list of details of how you can help and where to call. The Chicago Red Cross is also a great resource for continued local efforts to help. more ›

The economy may still suck, but it's been a banner year for restaurants, bars and their PR firms. At least from a marketing perspective. They've been able to smoothly segue from offering "economic stimulus" packages to "tax day relief" specials. To be fair, some of the offers are pretty damn good. Following is a list of some of the better deals around tomorrow for you to dole out what cash you didn't send to the IRS. more ›