No Foolin': April 1 a Big News Day on the North Shore

News outlets across the nation dread April Fools Day every year. Some play along by posting a funny story or two, while others stick to the real thing. Either way, if real big news happens that day - it is going to take some convincing.

There wasn’t much of an option on the North Shore, however. During this fake holiday, the region was able to root on one of their own during one of the most popular game shows of all time and later say goodbye to a man who created a television advertising legend.

Fresh off a game that resulted n a $57,000+ payout and third consecutive Jeopardy championship, Highland Park native and Deerfield High School grad Michael Bilow took no risks in his quest to make it four in a row. The risks didn’t pan out this time for the UCLA PhD student, but he still walked away from the show with more than $97,000 in winnings.

READ MORE HERE: Jeopardy Champ Calls Highland Park, Deerfield Home

The news wasn’t as uplifting down in Skokie, as a box alarm fire engulfed a home on Lincoln Avenue and displaced five of its residents. No one was injured in the blaze that required assistance from fire departments from nearby municipalities like Evanston and Morton Grove.

READ MORE HERE: Box Alarm Fire Displaces Residents of Skokie House

A few hours later, the sad news came in that Rudy Perz, the founder of the well-known character the Pillsbury Doughboy, had died at age 89. Perz, who created the iconic General Mills character as part of a campaign for Pillsbury refrigerated dough products, lived in Glenview and previously Wilmette.

READ MORE HERE: Creator of World Famous Pillsbury Doughboy Has Died

In Deerfield, Brad Schneider made it official that he is seeking to return to office in the 10th Congressional District.

READ MORE HERE: Schneider’s Campaign to Kickoff Thursday

The day was bright for area businesses. The Taste of Chestnut in Winnetka was the only suburban eatery named to Chicago Magazine’s “The Hot List” in April, while the Glenview Chamber of Commerce announced the opening of The Rock House, a coffee-bar with a music theme that will offer lessons.

READ MORE HERE: Winnetka Restaurant a Hot Pick This April, Rock House To Open in Glenview

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