Dane Placko
Dane Placko is a general assignment reporter at FOX 32 News and enjoys covering a variety of stories, from spot news to sports to features.
Placko was born in Chicago in the Rogers Park neighborhood. He moved with his family first to Arlington Heights and then Palatine, where he attended both Fremd and Palatine High Schools. He majored in history at the University of Illinois at Urbana, then began his career in broadcasting at WHO Radio and T.V. in Des Moines.
After a brief stop in Milwaukee, Placko returned home to Chicago and FOX 32 News in 1992, where he has received Emmy awards for spot news reporting and writing.
An avid gardener, Placko lives on the city's Northeast Side, and is best known among his colleagues as a long-suffering Cubs fan (not anymore, though!).
The latest from Dane Placko
Buzzed out: Chicagoans say tour helicopters are driving them crazy
Helicopter tours over Chicago offer stunning views—but at what cost? Some downtown residents say the constant buzzing is ruining their peace.
Long lines, rare finds mark Record Store Day in Chicago
If you're a fan of vinyl records, Saturday was your day.
Route 66 turns 100: Illinois gears up for 2026 centennial celebration
Getting your kicks on Route 66 will be a popular activity in 2026, as the iconic road from Chicago to Los Angeles celebrates its centennial.
Pong Pong tree: From 'The White Lotus' finale to deadly exhibit in Chicago
You’ve seen it on "The White Lotus," but did you know the toxic Pong Pong tree’s seeds are real? And Chicago's Field Museum houses them. Take a look here.
Englewood neighbors push for action on decade-old 'junkyard'
Englewood neighbors say a junk-filled lot is more than an eyesore—it’s a safety concern.
Chicago car dealers brace for impact as Trump tariffs threaten price hikes
Thinking of buying a car? You might want to act fast—new tariffs could push prices up soon.
Chicago Cubs introduce new ballpark menu as baseball season begins
As the Chicago Cubs prepare for their 2025 home opener, the team unveiled new food items available at Wrigley Field.
Bellwood mayor faces criticism over campaign billboard powered by village electricity
While most municipal election races don't get a lot of attention, you might say the battle for mayor of west suburban Bellwood is turning “electric."
Chicago companies throw March Madness parties to boost morale, business
As March Madness 2025 gets underway, economists are warning the tournament will cost American businesses billions of dollars in lost productivity.
White Sox unveil new ballpark food, shortened stadium name ahead of 2025 season
The Chicago White Sox aren't expected to win a lot of games this year, but they keep hitting home runs at the concession stands.