Northbound I-90 closed at I-94 Split due to crash: Police – NBC Chicago

A federal judge in Maryland issued a temporary restraining order blocking the Education Department and the Office of Personnel Management from sharing sensitive data with Elon Musk's team, preventing an audit of student loan systems. The American Federation of Teachers sued to protect private information submitted by educators for student aid, with the judge finding disclosure to Musk's team alone as a concrete injury. The judge declined restraints on the Treasury Department but believed the...

Pope Francis is in critical condition at a Rome hospital due to pneumonia, a complex infection, and kidney problems, with officials monitoring his health closely. The Vatican reported that the pope's kidney issues are currently stable, and there have been no further respiratory crises. Despite receiving oxygen and blood transfusions, Francis remains alert but fragile, with many worldwide offering prayers for his recovery. Full Article

Former New York Jets quarterback Bill Demory passed away at the age of 74 after battling prostate cancer and Parkinson’s disease. Demory played for the University of Arizona before joining the Jets in 1973, where he started in three games. He later became an economics professor and is survived by his wife, children, grandchildren, step-children, and brother. Full Article

At the 31st Screen Actors Guild Awards, the papal thriller "Conclave" won best ensemble, while Timothée Chalamet took home best actor, adding unexpected twists to the awards season. Other Oscar favorites like Demi Moore also won, solidifying their chances for the Academy Awards. The ceremony, held amidst the aftermath of devastating wildfires, featured Jane Fonda receiving the Life Achievement Award and delivering a passionate political speech. Full Article

Bakeries in the Chicago area are gearing up for Fat Thursday and Fat Tuesday with paczki orders, but face challenges due to soaring egg prices. Olympia Bakery in Hickory Hills prepares traditional paczki dough in advance due to time-consuming process, but rising egg costs have led to price increases. Creative Cakes in Tinley Park also struggles with higher egg prices for their specialty paczki, with USDA projecting a 20.3% increase this year. Full Article

A Mississippi community mourns the loss of Hinds County Sheriff's Deputy Martin Shields, Jr., who was shot and killed while responding to a domestic call. The suspect, Eric Brown, was wanted for questioning but was found dead inside the home. The investigation is ongoing, with the Mississippi Bureau of Investigation assisting in the case. Full Article