217 Today: Simone Biles ends a competition break in Chicago

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Simone Biles talks to the press after winning the all-around competition at the U.S. Classic in suburban Hoffman Estates.
  • Photo: Ashlee Rezin / Chicago Sun-Times

Friday, August 11, 2023

Today’s headlines: 

  • Following the deaths of two young Black men in police-involved shootings this year, Rantoul Police are engaging in community discussions with residents.
  • The Illinois State Fair in Springfield is officially underway.
  • Federal prosecutors are using a south suburban state lawmaker in their perjury case against an aide to former Illinois House Speaker Michael Madigan.
  • The movie, “You’re OUT!” is a road trip comedy of errors, filmed mostly in Champaign County, and is premiering at the Savoy 16 theatre Saturday

In today’s deep dive, we’ll learn more about how Simone Biles, the most decorated gymnast ever, came to Chicago to end a two-year break from competition.

Reporting today contributed by Mae Antar, Alex Degman, Dave McKinney, Owen Henderson and Chip Mitchell.

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Farrah Anderson

Farrah Anderson is a 2024 graduate of the University of Illinois. At Illinois Public Media, Anderson works as a general assignment reporter focusing on police and investigative stories.