US gives tentative OK to flights to Cuba from 10 US cities

The U.S. government on Thursday tentatively approved scheduled commercial airline service to Havana from 10 American cities, further bridging the gulf between countries as close as 90 miles and an hour flight but long kept at a greater distance by the Cold War. The decision is another long stride in President Barack Obama's effort to normalize relations between the United States and Cuba.

Bruce Rauner announces he’ll run for governor in 2018, and other Chicago news

There's a chance of severe storms Wednesday evening, including hail, a big downpour, and possibly even a tornado. It will be cooler, with a high of 76 and a low of 70. [ AccuWeather ] Governor Bruce Rauner hasn't made a splashy announcement yet, but he told the Tribune editorial board Monday that he'll run for governor again in 2018.

Durbin Expresses Hope Congress Will Act on New Gun Laws

Illinois' Democratic U.S. Sen. Dick Durbin is expressing hope Congress will "have the guts" to stand for laws to keep guns out of the hands of suspected terrorists. Durbin made an appearance in Chicago on Friday to rally public support for legislation he says would not only curb mass shootings across the country but reduce Chicago's gun violence by reducing the influx of guns from Indiana.

TSA head: Expect more airport security delays despite funds

The head of the Transportation Security Administration warned travellers Friday to expect long airport security lines to continue during the peak summer travel season despite Congress' shifting of $34 million to the agency. Peter Neffenger briefed officials in Chicago on Friday about efforts to address crushing delays in getting passengers through security checkpoints at major airports around the country.