Stories by WTTW News

What do a totem pole in Burnham Harbor and the Chicago Cubs curse have in common? The answer to that and more in tonight's edition of Ask Geoffrey.

Evanston native Dino Robinson is a graphic designer by trade, but you might also call him an "accidental historian." Christian Farr introduces us to this man and his mission to uncover the history of African-Americans along the North Shore.

Looking for Lollapalooza weekend alternatives? Time Out Chicago magazine is here with some activities that won't pull so hard on the purse strings.

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

Governor Quinn signs a bill into law banning texting behind the wheel of a car. Christian Farr was there for the signing, and he joins us with more on the legislation. WEB EXCLUSIVE: 2007 piece on student killed by texting driver

Another school clout scandal has come to the surface, this time involving the Chicago Public Schools. Admission practices at some of the district's most selective high schools are currently under scrutiny. Eddie Arruza and his panel go inside the controversy. Chicago Tribune: Federal investigation targets CPS (08/02/09)

Police are hailing a Chicago cab driver as a hero because he physically engaged a suspect in a robbery-beating. Would you do the same? Rich Samuels has the story of the cab driver who helped Chicago cops catch a suspect early this morning.

Today is the day that candidates in Illinois can begin gathering signatures on petitions that will allow them to appear on ballots. Carol Marin and her panel of reporters tell us how the races are shaping up.

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.

In anticipation of the film The Time Traveler's Wife, we revisit Phil Ponce's 2003 conversation with author Audrey Niffenegger.

Are social networking websites an effective way to land a job? Our guests say absolutely, and they share with us how it's possible. General Social Networking Tips

The TV series American Idol has turned out some mega pop music stars--even if they didn't win the contest. Will Chicago's Leslie Hunt be next? She was a finalist on the program, and performs for us tonight.

Christian Farr explores how deconstruction is keeping reusable building materials out of landfills.

He's known as the "Hillbilly Cat," "Elvis the Pelvis," and of course, "The King of Rock 'n' Roll." Tonight, we meet the author of a new book on everything Elvis. Amazon.com: Read excerpts from the book Aug. 8: Susan Doll's seminar on Viva Las Vegas

Ford rolled out its 2010 Taurus today, and it's made in Chicago. Rich Samuels tells us why Ford's Torrence Avenue Assembly plant is surviving some of the darkest days in the history of the auto industry. DriveChicago.com reviews the 2010 Taurus

The chairman of the University of Illinois Board of Trustees is the latest to resign in the wake of the admission clout scandal. Elizabeth Brackett sits down with commissioners from the independent panel reviewing the U of I's tainted admission process.

What do futuristic pavilions in Millennium Park have to do with Daniel Burnham's century-old Plan of Chicago? We find out when we meet the two acclaimed architects making their Chicago debuts with these cutting-edge works.

President Obama's personal physician for more than 20 years tells us why he's critical of his former patient's proposal to change the way the nation provides health care.

Almost 200 members of the Illinois National Guard returned home to Soldier Field today to a welcoming crowd, including the governor and hundreds of family members and friends. The troops just completed a year-long deployment in Afghanistan. Rich Samuels was there and takes us inside the emotional reunion.

Governor Quinn's painful budget cuts will soon be felt by the social service agencies throughout the state. Carol Marin sits down with representatives from four agencies to discuss what the reductions will mean for them and their clients.

Can the president's so-called "beer summit" actually help lift sagging beer sales this summer? Some Chicago businesses and brewers hope so. Kris Kridel of WBBM Newsradio 780's "Noon Business Hour" joins us with that story, plus the rest of the week's business news.

Hidden treasures of Chicago art are being restored to their former glory. On the Artbeat, we take a look at some century-old murals that are being resurrected on the South Side. Parma Conservation: More about the conservators Blackstone branch of Chicago Public Library Aug. 31: Parma Conservation to discuss conservation process

The White Sox pulled off a major deal just minutes before the trade deadline, landing All-Star pitcher Jake Peavy. Do they have what it takes to make another World Series run? We'll hear what the sports experts have to say about the Sox, Cubs, and Bears.

This man's creation may look like something out of a science fiction movie, but Greg Zanis believes his pyramid-shaped car could help solve the nation's fuel problems. Christian Farr goes for a ride and finds out why. DreamCar123.com: Photos, videos and more info

We take a look back at our 2001 interview with Julia Child in anticipation of the new movie "Julie and Julia." WEB EXCLUSIVE: Watch the full interview

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