The Week in Review

The Week in Review with Joel Weisman

This week on Chicago Tonight: The Week in Review, Gov. Pat Quinn abolishes the death penalty with a stroke of his pen. An Illinois House committee has resurrected a bill allowing people to carry concealed weapons here. Mayor-elect Rahm Emanuel and Finance Committee Chair Ed Burke both plan to pour money into various aldermanic races in next month's runoff election. Rod Blagojevich asks Judge Zagel to sentence him and dismiss the counts in the former governor's upcoming corruption retrial. Shaun Gayle admits he had sex with the woman accused of killing his pregnant girlfriend the night before the murder. Senate President John Cullerton floats the controversial idea of taxing pensions of retirees making $100,000 or more. And in sports, Michael Jordan believes Bulls star Derrick Rose should be the NBA's MVP.

Guests:

• Larry Yellen, Fox Chicago News
• Greg Burns, Chicago Tribune
• Laura Washington, Chicago Sun-Times, ABC-7 News
• Mike Mulligan, Chicago Sun-Times, WSCR-670 The Score

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Cultural Connections

Cultural Connections: Peter Sellars

Peter Sellars is renowned for his unique stagings of classical and contemporary operas and plays. We talk with the noted theater director about his latest production.

• "Hercules" at Lyric Opera of Chicago
• More on the Story: Web-exclusive video

Arts & Entertainment

Teach For America

It's called "Transformational Education," and it's in play right here in Chicago. We talk with Teach For America founder Wendy Kopp about her new book, and her commitment to close the achievement gap in America.

• More on the book: A Chance To Make History
• Teach For America

Politics

Vying for the 6th Ward

We sit down with the two aldermanic candidates in the 6th ward runoff. Meet the incumbent, Ald. Freddrenna M. Lyle, and the person running against her, Roderick T. Sawyer.

• 6th Ward aldermanic runoff page

Blagojevich Trial 2011

Blagojevich Requests Immediate Sentencing

Former governor Rod Blagojevich has asked a judge to cancel the retrial against him and sentence him for the one count he was found guilty of, lying to the FBI. Carol Marin and our panel analyze Blagojevich's unusual request, and the chances the judge will listen.

• Chicago Tribune article about what Blagojevich wants

Arts & Entertainment

Not Quite Adults

A new book about young adults and the benefits of growing up slowly is sparking some lively conversations. Co-author Barbara Ray talks about Not Quite Adults.

• Link to Not Quite Adults

Education

Interim CPS Chief

Interim Chicago Public Schools CEO Terry Mazany talks with Elizabeth Brackett about the state of the cash-strapped school system.

• Terry Mazany on CPS website

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Politics

Pulaski Day

We know many kids and workers are off today, but do we really have any clue why? Paris Schutz has the history behind a holiday that is unique to Illinois.

• Learn more about Pulaski Day
• The Polish Museum of America