ACE VENTURA: In our Q&A, the surprise pick for manager discusses his “midlife crisis” and how it feels to be the most underestimated man in baseball Read more
For some state lawmakers, supporting prisoners' requests for transfers can be a routine constituent service—or a valuable trump card. PLUS: Prime movers—ten Illinois legislators who logged the most recorded inquiries on behalf of prisoners—and the gang members they've helped Read more
LAWBREAKERS, LAWMAKERS: In some parts of Chicago, violent street gangs and pols quietly trade money and favors for mutual gain. The thugs flourish, the elected officials thrive—and you lose. A special report. Read more