Stories by Kristen Thometz

A yearlong review of the state's response to reports of sexual assault has resulted in a new law that aims to improve the process of investigation and offer better support for survivors.

Chicago Police Superintendent Eddie Johnson orders firings in the Laquan McDonald shooting cover-up. Donald Trump is trouble for Illinois Republicans. CPS pitches a billion-dollar bond sale, and the Cubs cruise towards the playoffs.

Our latest cocktail, inspired by Chicago boss William Dawson, brings north and south together with the sweet peaches of Dawson’s ancestral Georgia and the Irish whiskey of Chicago’s rough politics.

Humans pose the greatest threat to chimpanzees, renowned British primatologist Dr. Jane Goodall said Thursday during an event at the Lincoln Park Zoo.

Hillary Clinton may be riding high in the polls but tensions between her and the progressive left of her party remain. What do Democrats need to do to maintain party unity?

Police Superintendent Eddie Johnson moves to fire seven police officers who, according to a report, were complicit in covering up the police shooting of Laquan McDonald.

Watch the August 18, 2016 full episode of "Chicago Tonight."

A growing number of health insurance companies are pulling out of Obamacare. Checking out the latest on the Affordable Care Act.  

We hear from actor Kevin Bacon about helping out a group of young Chicago authors known as the Bomb Squad.

Three straight years of overnights, reporting on violence: Crime reporter Peter Nickeas on how that work changed him–and why he doesn't want to stop covering violence.

Meet an entrepreneur who is helping Chicagoans compost while growing his business–all by the seat of his bicycle.

Turn your eyes to the skies for this weekend's annual air show, explore Bronzeville galleries, hear global rhythms in Albany Park, take in a film festival, ogle Frank Lloyd Wright homes in Oak Park and more.

Adventurous eaters concerned about Asian carp entering the Great Lakes will have a chance to devour the invasive fish at a special event held along the Chicago River next week.

Watch the August 17, 2016 full episode of "Chicago Tonight."

Olympic athletes are lovin' McDonald's at the Rio games. That story and more from Crain's Chicago Business.

An email sent to Chicago teachers this week claims the union is “likely to strike” and advertises a strike training session this weekend.

Some conservatives are questioning whether the latest campaign moves will help Donald Trump broaden his base of support.

As pet obesity and orthopedic surgeries continue to rise, many domesticated animals are struggling to get back on healthy legs, experts say. A new facility in Buffalo Grove, Illinois, is aiming to address that very problem.

Geoffrey Baer tracks down answers for three questions about Chicago's bygone streetcar heyday in this encore edition of Ask Geoffrey.

We revisit an exhibition in suburban Elmhurst that examines how Playboy exposed its readers to new concepts in architecture and design.

A plan that aims to allow swimming in Chicago’s waterways in less than 15 years was unveiled Wednesday by the city and partnering nonprofits.

Macy's is closing 100 stores. Will other traditional retailers follow suit?

The Chicago Urban League has a new 10-year plan to address racism and poverty and create a more equitable Chicago. The head of the 100-year-old civil rights organization joins us with details.

The host and creator of the long-running PBS public affairs show, “The McLaughlin Group,” died Tuesday morning. He was 89 years old.

Watch the August 16, 2016 full episode of "Chicago Tonight."

New health insurance rules surrounding prescription drugs could make treatment for some patients more simple. Find out what step therapy is and what the changes could mean.