We hear from a former political speechwriter about the meaning behind certain words and phrases that have come to define the health care debate. Guest: Jason Desanto - law and communications professor at Northwestern University New York Times: False 'death panel' rumor has some familiar roots (08/13/09)

Joel and his panel discuss the week's top headlines: The heated health care debate is raging all across the country; state political races starting to take shape; legalized video poker a tough sell in some locales; Chicago Public Schools CEO Ron Huberman calls for a property tax hike; a Chicago alderman uses clout to get his daughter into a coveted magnet school; a Wrigley Field bleacher bum dumps beer on an unsuspecting outfielder; and Blackhawk superstar Patrick Kane charged with felony robbery in a violent car fare dispute. Guests:

Almost half of those living with HIV or AIDS are African American. We talk to a young doctor known for her frank talk to the African American community about a traditionally taboo subject: sex. Guest: Dr. Rachael Ross Additional Resources Chicago Tribune: The next Dr. Ruth (07/27/09)

There's a new way to treat Iraq War veterans suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder. It's a 3-D simulator and it's the first of its kind in Illinois. We see how it works and how it's helping.

Sen. Durbin said he would support a health care bill that did not include a public option if that meant the bill would come to a full vote before the Senate soon. Eddie Arruza caught up with the senator today and tells us what Durbin's position could mean for health care reform.

We hear what you had to say about some of our recent stories when we read some viewer mail.

We hear what you had to say about some of our recent stories when we read our viewer mail.

Is organic food worth the the high price tag, or is it just the latest edible money-making scheme? We delve into the debate tonight.

Some of the nation's health care experts say reform might be futile without combating the nation's obesity epidemic. Carol Marin and her panel discuss new efforts to get obesity in check.

Have you ever wondered what happens to embryos left over after a successful round of in vitro fertilization? We explore the answer to this question and the many controversies it has spurred.

We hear what you had to say about some of our recent stories when we read our viewer mail.

Chicago Tonight: The Week in Review with Joel Weisman at 7 PM Joel and his panel discuss the week's top headlines: Politicians lining up to replace Governor Quinn; President Obama pushing for major health care reform; Cook County commissioners slash president Stroger's controversial tax hike in half; Will the cash-strapped Chicago Sun-Times survive bankruptcy?; White Sox pitcher Mark Buehrle throws a perfect game; and did the Blackhawks get damaged goods when they signed All-Star Marian Hossa? Guests:

The fight for health care reform is raging in Washington, and President Obama wants big changes by the end of the year. Elizabeth Brackett and her panel weigh in on this hot button issue.

We have an update to a story we brought you a few years ago concerning so-called "food deserts" in Chicago -- areas that lack access to grocery stores and healthy food. Christian Farr talks with people who are fighting to make these "deserts" disappear.

We hear what you had to say about some of our recent stories when we read our viewer mail.

Brandon Johnson works with the Washington Park Consortium to improve the quality of life of those in his community.  The plan was developed during eighteen months by residents of the neighborhood.  He says food deserts are important because it "helps the community find the value of food."