July 4 Flag Burner Avoids Prosecution But Can't Escape Death Threats: Patch PM

Stories worth talking about tonight across the Illinois Patch network:

Illinois Flag-Burner Won't Be Prosecuted, Wishes Death Threats Would Stop

Bryton Mellott was exercising his right to free speech, the Champaign County state's attorney decided, when he posted photos of himself burning an American flag on the Fourth of July. Now he's the target of zealot-patriots who wish him dead.

Abner Mikva, Revered Illinois Politician, Jurist and Mentor, Dies

The former U.S. representative was a longtime resident of Hyde Park, a law professor at the University of Chicago, a judge, White House counsel to Bill Clinton and a mentor to President Barack Obama.

Nazi Flag at Suburban Flea Market Prompts Outrage

A vendor was asked to remove the flag and the Kane County flea market operator apologized to customers, who reflected on the apology and their values.

Crocs Shoes, Drill Set, Hoover Vacuums, Wine Pack: Shop on Patch

Today's best deals include a today-only deal on Crocs and 10 things every wine lover should have.

Junior High Basketball Coach Jailed For ‘Inappropriate’ Texts to Teen Player

The 48-year-old Peotone man was charged with grooming for months of texts to a 14-year-old girl.

Also Worth a Look Today

• Fire at Queen of Peace High School Sends Burned Man to Hospital
• '2 Broke Girls' Star to Perform at Niles North
• PHOTO GALLERY: Def Leppard and REO Speedwagon Concert
• Help Name Mexican Gray Wolf Puppies at Brookfield Zoo
• Flashback: 'Bozo's Circus Fourth of July Spectacular,' July 4, 1978

Patch PM shares a few of the day’s must-read items from our Chicago network. The Patch community platform serves more than seven dozen villages, cities and neighborhoods in the Chicago region.

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