Chicago police are better prepared to handle the large protests and crowds expected during the upcoming Democratic National Convention, but concerns still exist around the police department’s ability to put those preparations into action, a new watchdog report found.
NATO in Chicago -
Chicago Police Show Signs of ‘Significant’ Improvements in Mass Gathering Response Plans, but Concerns Around ‘Outdated’ Draft Policies Persist Ahead of DNC: Watchdog Report
May 30, 2024 0 Comments![Protesters and police officers wearing riot gear have a standoff near Daley Plaza on Saturday, May 30, 2020. (Evan Garcia / WTTW News) Protesters and police officers wearing riot gear have a standoff near Daley Plaza on Saturday, May 30, 2020. (Evan Garcia / WTTW News)](https://news.wttw.com/sites/default/files/styles/post-thumb/public/field/image/photo5_1_1.jpg)
![Protesters and police officers wearing riot gear have a standoff near Daley Plaza on Saturday, May 30, 2020. (Evan Garcia / WTTW News) Protesters and police officers wearing riot gear have a standoff near Daley Plaza on Saturday, May 30, 2020. (Evan Garcia / WTTW News)](https://news.wttw.com/sites/default/files/styles/taxonomy-page-hero/public/field/image/photo5_1_1.jpg)
Illinois Lawmakers Pass Bill Requiring ‘Faithful’ Electors in 2024, Loosen Campaign Finance Rules
May 30, 2024 0 Comments![State Rep. Maurice West, D-Rockford, prepares for a debate over a broad package of election legislation. (Andrew Adams / Capitol News Illinois) State Rep. Maurice West, D-Rockford, prepares for a debate over a broad package of election legislation. (Andrew Adams / Capitol News Illinois)](https://news.wttw.com/sites/default/files/styles/post-thumb/public/field/image/Maurice_West_Credit_CapitolNews_AndrewAdams.jpg)
The measure is part of a broad package of election-related legislation which also includes a provision loosening restrictions on what political parties can do with campaign funds and a state-level response to a controversy in the south suburbs.
![State Rep. Maurice West, D-Rockford, prepares for a debate over a broad package of election legislation. (Andrew Adams / Capitol News Illinois) State Rep. Maurice West, D-Rockford, prepares for a debate over a broad package of election legislation. (Andrew Adams / Capitol News Illinois)](https://news.wttw.com/sites/default/files/styles/taxonomy-page-hero/public/field/image/Maurice_West_Credit_CapitolNews_AndrewAdams.jpg)
Chicago Tonight: Black Voices, May 29, 2024 - Full Show
May 29, 2024 0 Comments![](https://news.wttw.com/sites/default/files/styles/post-thumb/public/field/image/052924_C2N.jpg)
Residents push back on a proposed trucking hub in North Lawndale. A landmark study seeks to know more about cancer risks and outcomes in Black women. And remembering the founder of a pioneering Chicago theater company.
![](https://news.wttw.com/sites/default/files/styles/taxonomy-page-hero/public/field/image/052924_C2N.jpg)
Large-Scale Study in Illinois, Other States Seeks to Better Understand Cancer in Black Women
May 29, 2024 0 Comments![(WTTW News) (WTTW News)](https://news.wttw.com/sites/default/files/styles/post-thumb/public/field/image/Mammogram_BV_FILE.jpg)
A major long-term study launched by the American Cancer Society aims to better understand cancer risk factors and outcomes for Black women in the U.S, who continue to face disparities in cancer prevention, detection, treatment and survival.
![(WTTW News) (WTTW News)](https://news.wttw.com/sites/default/files/styles/taxonomy-page-hero/public/field/image/Mammogram_BV_FILE.jpg)
Remembering the Life and Legacy of a Pioneering Force in Chicago’s Black Theater Scene
May 29, 2024 0 Comments![Val Gray Ward (Provided archive photo) Val Gray Ward (Provided archive photo)](https://news.wttw.com/sites/default/files/styles/post-thumb/public/field/image/Val_Gray_Ward_FILEImage.jpg)
The life and legacy of Val Gray Ward, founder of a pioneering Black theater company, was remembered this past weekend.
![Val Gray Ward (Provided archive photo) Val Gray Ward (Provided archive photo)](https://news.wttw.com/sites/default/files/styles/taxonomy-page-hero/public/field/image/Val_Gray_Ward_FILEImage.jpg)
North Lawndale Residents Push Back Against Proposed Logistics Hub Amid Environmental, Traffic Concerns
May 29, 2024 0 Comments![Residents are pushing back against a proposed logistics and distribution hub in North Lawndale. (WTTW News) Residents are pushing back against a proposed logistics and distribution hub in North Lawndale. (WTTW News)](https://news.wttw.com/sites/default/files/styles/post-thumb/public/field/image/NorthLawndaleDevelopment02_C2N.jpg)
Developers are pumping the brakes on plans for a controversial logistics and distribution hub in North Lawndale. The project would tear down two buildings preservationists said are historically significant to make way for the nearly 250,000-square-foot facility.
![Residents are pushing back against a proposed logistics and distribution hub in North Lawndale. (WTTW News) Residents are pushing back against a proposed logistics and distribution hub in North Lawndale. (WTTW News)](https://news.wttw.com/sites/default/files/styles/taxonomy-page-hero/public/field/image/NorthLawndaleDevelopment02_C2N.jpg)
Openlands Calls Bears Stadium Proposal a ‘Commercial District in a Public Park,’ Highlights Lakefront Protection Ordinance
May 29, 2024 0 Comments![A rendering of the proposed new stadium for the Chicago Bears on a redesigned Museum Campus. (Credit: Chicago Bears) A rendering of the proposed new stadium for the Chicago Bears on a redesigned Museum Campus. (Credit: Chicago Bears)](https://news.wttw.com/sites/default/files/styles/post-thumb/public/field/image/Chicago_Still_Image_2_CREDIT_Chicago_Bears.jpg)
While financing for the Chicago Bears’ proposed new lakefront stadium remains in doubt, opponents of the plan have sent an unequivocal “hands off” message regarding any use of lakefront property for private interests.
![A rendering of the proposed new stadium for the Chicago Bears on a redesigned Museum Campus. (Credit: Chicago Bears) A rendering of the proposed new stadium for the Chicago Bears on a redesigned Museum Campus. (Credit: Chicago Bears)](https://news.wttw.com/sites/default/files/styles/taxonomy-page-hero/public/field/image/Chicago_Still_Image_2_CREDIT_Chicago_Bears.jpg)
Bill That Would Restrict Sale of Delta-8 and Hemp-Derived Products in Illinois Stalls in State House
May 29, 2024 0 Comments![(WTTW News) Hemp Cafe in Chicago. (WTTW News)](https://news.wttw.com/sites/default/files/styles/post-thumb/public/field/image/HempCafes_C2N.jpg)
Sales of delta-8 and other hemp-derived snacks, drinks and products will continue unabated in Illinois despite potential safety concerns, after the state legislature adjourned early Wednesday morning without passing new regulations.
![(WTTW News) Hemp Cafe in Chicago. (WTTW News)](https://news.wttw.com/sites/default/files/styles/taxonomy-page-hero/public/field/image/HempCafes_C2N.jpg)
2 Men Convicted of Disguising Themselves as Law Enforcement to Kidnap, Rob Victims in Chicago Suburbs
May 29, 2024 0 Comments![The Dirksen Courthouse is pictured in Chicago. (Capitol News Illinois) The Dirksen Courthouse is pictured in Chicago. (Capitol News Illinois)](https://news.wttw.com/sites/default/files/styles/post-thumb/public/field/image/dirksen-courthouse_Capitol_News.jpg)
Sedgwick Williams, 47, and Tai Hon La, 34, were each convicted on kidnapping charges this month following a two-week trial in Chicago’s federal court building. Both men face a possible sentence of up to life in prison.
![The Dirksen Courthouse is pictured in Chicago. (Capitol News Illinois) The Dirksen Courthouse is pictured in Chicago. (Capitol News Illinois)](https://news.wttw.com/sites/default/files/styles/taxonomy-page-hero/public/field/image/dirksen-courthouse_Capitol_News.jpg)
Illinois Lawmakers Finalize $53.1 Billion Budget After Working Through the Night
May 29, 2024 0 CommentsDespite holding 78 seats in the chamber, it took Democrats three tries to reach the 60 votes needed to approve more than $1.1 billion in revenue increases, including a tax hike on sportsbooks and businesses, to balance the $53.1 billion spending plan for fiscal year 2025.
Prosecutor Says Trump Tried to ‘Hoodwink Voters’ While Defense Attacks Key Witness in Last Arguments of Hush Money Trial
May 28, 2024 0 Comments![Former President Donald Trump sits in Manhattan Criminal Court, Tuesday, May 28, 2024, in New York. (Justin Lane / Pool Photo via AP) Former President Donald Trump sits in Manhattan Criminal Court, Tuesday, May 28, 2024, in New York. (Justin Lane / Pool Photo via AP)](https://news.wttw.com/sites/default/files/styles/post-thumb/public/field/image/Trump_Hush_Money_24149523462822.jpg)
The landmark case, the only one of four criminal prosecutions against the former president to reach trial, centered on allegations that Trump and his allies conspired to stifle potentially embarrassing stories during the 2016 presidential campaign through hush money payments.
![Former President Donald Trump sits in Manhattan Criminal Court, Tuesday, May 28, 2024, in New York. (Justin Lane / Pool Photo via AP) Former President Donald Trump sits in Manhattan Criminal Court, Tuesday, May 28, 2024, in New York. (Justin Lane / Pool Photo via AP)](https://news.wttw.com/sites/default/files/styles/taxonomy-page-hero/public/field/image/Trump_Hush_Money_24149523462822.jpg)
May 28, 2024 - Full Show
May 28, 2024 0 Comments![](https://news.wttw.com/sites/default/files/styles/post-thumb/public/field/image/052824_C2N.jpg)
What the state’s $53 billion budget plan could mean for taxpayers. A push to establish a statewide public defender system. And the cicada invasion is here — what to know about our new neighbors.
![](https://news.wttw.com/sites/default/files/styles/taxonomy-page-hero/public/field/image/052824_C2N.jpg)
New Bill Aims to Create Statewide Public Defender Office in Illinois
May 28, 2024 0 Comments![File photo of a courtroom. (WTTW News) File photo of a courtroom. (WTTW News)](https://news.wttw.com/sites/default/files/styles/post-thumb/public/field/image/Courtroom_File_C2N.jpg)
Illinois is one of seven states that do not have a statewide public defender body. Currently, 60% of Illinois counties have no office of public defense and instead hire private attorneys on a part-time basis.
![File photo of a courtroom. (WTTW News) File photo of a courtroom. (WTTW News)](https://news.wttw.com/sites/default/files/styles/taxonomy-page-hero/public/field/image/Courtroom_File_C2N.jpg)
Democrats Plan to Nominate Biden by Virtual Roll Call Before DNC to Meet Ohio Ballot Deadline
May 28, 2024 0 Comments![FILE - President Joe Biden speaks on April 12, 2024, in Washington. (Alex Brandon / AP Photo, File) FILE - President Joe Biden speaks on April 12, 2024, in Washington. (Alex Brandon / AP Photo, File)](https://news.wttw.com/sites/default/files/styles/post-thumb/public/field/image/Election_2024_Biden_Ohio_24149510804858.jpg)
The Democratic National Convention, where the president would otherwise be formally nominated, comes after Ohio’s ballot deadline of Aug. 7. The party’s convention is scheduled for Aug. 19-22.
![FILE - President Joe Biden speaks on April 12, 2024, in Washington. (Alex Brandon / AP Photo, File) FILE - President Joe Biden speaks on April 12, 2024, in Washington. (Alex Brandon / AP Photo, File)](https://news.wttw.com/sites/default/files/styles/taxonomy-page-hero/public/field/image/Election_2024_Biden_Ohio_24149510804858.jpg)
Illinois Lawmakers Move to Pause, Then Further Regulate Carbon Dioxide Pipeline Development
May 28, 2024 0 Comments![State Sen. Laura Fine, D-Glenview, and an aide watch as state Sen. Michael Halpin, D-Rock Island, explains why he will vote no on her bill to regulate the carbon capture and sequestration industry. (Andrew Adams / Capitol News Illinois) State Sen. Laura Fine, D-Glenview, and an aide watch as state Sen. Michael Halpin, D-Rock Island, explains why he will vote no on her bill to regulate the carbon capture and sequestration industry. (Andrew Adams / Capitol News Illinois)](https://news.wttw.com/sites/default/files/styles/post-thumb/public/field/image/240526%20FINE%20AA_CREDIT_Andrew%20Adams_CNI.jpg)
While proponents of carbon capture technology say it is key to addressing climate change, it is often criticized for the risks it brings with it. A pipeline can burst, resulting in a flood of carbon dioxide for miles that can poison those caught in it.
![State Sen. Laura Fine, D-Glenview, and an aide watch as state Sen. Michael Halpin, D-Rock Island, explains why he will vote no on her bill to regulate the carbon capture and sequestration industry. (Andrew Adams / Capitol News Illinois) State Sen. Laura Fine, D-Glenview, and an aide watch as state Sen. Michael Halpin, D-Rock Island, explains why he will vote no on her bill to regulate the carbon capture and sequestration industry. (Andrew Adams / Capitol News Illinois)](https://news.wttw.com/sites/default/files/styles/taxonomy-page-hero/public/field/image/240526%20FINE%20AA_CREDIT_Andrew%20Adams_CNI.jpg)
Can You Eat Cicadas? Yes. But Should You? Here’s Food for Thought From Experts
May 28, 2024 0 Comments![Brood XIX periodical cicada. (Alabama Extension / Flickr Creative Commons) Brood XIX periodical cicada. (Alabama Extension / Flickr Creative Commons)](https://news.wttw.com/sites/default/files/styles/post-thumb/public/field/image/CicadaOnTwigAlabamaExtensionFlickrCC_CROP.jpg)
If you wouldn’t eat a vegetable grown in that soil, don’t eat a cicada.
![Brood XIX periodical cicada. (Alabama Extension / Flickr Creative Commons) Brood XIX periodical cicada. (Alabama Extension / Flickr Creative Commons)](https://news.wttw.com/sites/default/files/styles/taxonomy-page-hero/public/field/image/CicadaOnTwigAlabamaExtensionFlickrCC_CROP.jpg)
CPS Releases New School Budgets, Showing ‘Tighter’ Resources for Some Amid Budget Shortfall. Find How Your School Fared
May 28, 2024 0 Comments![(WTTW News) (WTTW News)](https://news.wttw.com/sites/default/files/styles/post-thumb/public/field/image/School_Hallway_FILE_C2N.jpg)
Chicago Public Schools on Tuesday published individual school-level budgets amid as some have expressed concerns about how the district’s new funding model could affect its selective enrollment and magnet schools.
![(WTTW News) (WTTW News)](https://news.wttw.com/sites/default/files/styles/taxonomy-page-hero/public/field/image/School_Hallway_FILE_C2N.jpg)