By Bob Sirott, FOX 32 News at Nine Co-Anchor - bio | email
CHICAGO (FOX 32 News) -
One more thing, about March Madness. I'm proud to say I never participate in those NCAA pools. Partly because I always lose and partly because all that bracketing is too complicated--especially when you're trying to figure out your income taxes this time of year.
It's estimated that 3 million employees spend one to three hours watching games and checking scores instead of working. According to one survey, 16 percent of workers expect to spend five hours or more following the tournament.
Every spring we get the stories about college basketball causing millions of dollars in lost productivity at the office. That's ridiculous, and always seemed a little far-fetched to me, and now most of the experts agree, saying March Madness can actually create team-spirit and bonding at work.
One poll of more than a thousand managers found one in five people felt activities tied to the playoffs boost morale, compared to only 4 percent who viewed them negatively.
The head of one large employee placement service told Forbes Magazine companies should encourage the betting breaks because people who spend time on non-work tasks will most likely finish their assignments by staying late.
I'm going home now. The rest of the employees at the station might be here a while.
Thursday, June 13 2013 1:45 PM EDT2013-06-13 17:45:09 GMT
Even a fire hydrant is feeling the Blackhawks spirit, especially after Chicago's midnight victory over the Boston Bruins at the United Center in triple overtime.
Even a fire hydrant is feeling the Blackhawks spirit, especially after Chicago's midnight victory over the Boston Bruins at the United Center in triple overtime.
Wednesday, June 12 2013 9:55 PM EDT2013-06-13 01:55:01 GMT
Forecasters say hot weather could give way to violent storms across parts of Illinois and are warning residents to be prepared for strong winds, hail and even tornadoes.
Forecasters say hot weather could give way to violent storms across parts of Illinois and are warning residents to be prepared for strong winds, hail and even tornadoes.
Tuesday, June 18 2013 10:12 PM EDT2013-06-19 02:12:41 GMT
Chicago Public Schools wrap up classes this week, and that means some of the schools will only be open for a few more days before they are closed as part of the CPS 5-year reorganization plan.
Chicago Public Schools wrap up classes this week, and that means some of the schools will only be open for a few more days before they are closed as part of the CPS 5-year reorganization plan.
Tuesday, June 18 2013 6:27 PM EDT2013-06-18 22:27:58 GMT
A southwest suburban teen pleaded guilty to being drunk when he fatally struck a 4-year-old girl chasing a ball in the street has been sentenced to probation and community service.
A southwest suburban teen pleaded guilty to being drunk when he fatally struck a 4-year-old girl chasing a ball in the street has been sentenced to probation and community service.
Tuesday, June 18 2013 5:55 PM EDT2013-06-18 21:55:58 GMT
Police ask the Albany Park/Mayfair community to be vigilant, walk in pairs and avoid strangers, after a woman was sexually assaulted Monday night near the entrance to a CTA Blue Line station.
Police ask the Albany Park/Mayfair community to be vigilant, walk in pairs and avoid strangers, after a woman was sexually assaulted Monday night near the entrance to a CTA Blue Line station.