Two former water department officials from suburban Crestwood were indicted Thursday for allegedly lying to environmental regulators about the village’s drinking water. Frank Scaccia, a retired certified water operator, and Theresa Neubauer, a former water department supervisor, allegedly lied to regulators for more than 20 years about using a water well to supplement Crestwood’s drinking water supply from Lake Michigan. The well was contaminated with cancer causing chemicals.

Illinois Sen. Mark Kirk wants to shift the focus of economic concerns to small businesses, which he called the “heart and soul of the Illinois economic picture.” Kirk said he’s confident in the members of the “super committee,” which has been tasked with figuring out how the U.S. can get out of the debt crisis.

The union behind just about everyone on stage at the Lyric Opera is threatening to strike. Union Executive Director Alan Gordon of the American Guild of Musical Artists said the Lyric threatened to lock out workers on Aug. 22 over contract negotiations. The union is telling its members to be prepared to picket the annual free concert next month and possibly strike on opening night.

One of the largest parades in the country will draw about 500,000 people to Chicago’s South Side. The Bud Billiken Parade kicks off Saturday. Officials encourage parade-goers to take public transit.

Nearly five thousand came out to celebrate Pakistan independence at Bolingbrook’s Performing Arts Center in July, chanting “Pakistan zindabad,” or “long live Pakistan.” In light of a struggling economy and education system as well as political violence in the South Asian country, Maham Khan asked those at the event what they were celebrating.

The Tall Ships have arrived at Navy Pier! The Taste of Tall Ships kicks off this weekend at Navy Pier. Visitors can see, board and take a ride on the ships, which include two from Chicago.

Cubs beat the Nationals last night and face off with the Braves this weekend. Sox beat the Orioles and will have the Royals this weekend. High of 82 today but rain coming this weekend. 

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