* Average CPS freshman, 19 absences, 2.6 Fs; more here

* Illinois ACT scores are up but still low

* Daley calls tax on bottled water good for budget, environment

Money-wise, it’s a good idea. Environmental-wise, it’s a good idea, too….There’s so much plastic in our lives. It’s amazing. Every time you look, there’s plastic all over,” Daley said Tuesday.

Asked whether it was fair to punish people for following doctors’ advice to stay hydrated, the mayor said, “Well, it all depends what effect you’re having upon the environment — not just upon their body, but upon the environment.”

* Transportation Dept. is clean new leader insists

* Three OTB sites win approval from the state

* Ameren plan for Illinois blackouts is presented

* EPA will ask BP to offset pollution

* Daley says to hold off on boycott, pressure building on BP

* PrairieStateBlue: Lipinski paranoia goes mainstream

* Circuit chief judge may join field vying to replace LaHood

* Lynn Sweet: Hastert hanging it up

* Hastert exit expected

* County worker allegedly took $169,000; more here

* Mayor selects new planning chief and other city positions