Stories by Nick Blumberg

A new book from a Northwestern medical school professor delves into the history of the common—yet still mysterious—world of anesthesia.

In the wake of the much-maligned sweetened beverage tax, Cook County Board President Toni Preckwinkle’s re-election no longer appears certain. Why Bob Fioretti believes Cook County needs new leadership.

Sexual harassment takes the focus in Springfield and City Council. Aldermen approve a new police training center on the West Side. Sears plans to shutter more stores. And the Bears take on the weakened Packers. 

He holds the American record for most consecutive days in space. Retired astronaut Scott Kelly discusses the incredible mission described in his new book, “Endurance: A Year in Space, A Lifetime of Discovery.”

Tempers flare in Congress as House Republicans move quickly to overhaul the nation’s tax system. A look at the economic politics and policies at play.

Robert P. Jones on why the election of President Donald Trump was the “death rattle” of white Christian America.

How a decade in prison derailed the life of a 15-year-old, and how a devoted cousin struggled to help him re-enter society. Author Danielle Allen discusses her new book.

Autumn is not just pumpkin spice lattes and apple picking. Learn about the science behind the season with physicist Dr. Olivia Castellini.

GOP lawmakers delay releasing their tax overhaul. Can legislators agree on cuts that meet the president’s demands?

Walgreens and CVS try to fend off competition from Amazon. Reporter Bruce Japsen joins us for a look at possible shifts in the pharmacy business.

Mortician, author and death acceptance activist Caitlin Doughty thinks American attitudes toward death are, by and large, “toxic.” 

The inside story of American golf greats looking for vindication in one of the game’s top tournaments.

Weather forecasts say Chicago might see a third straight mild winter. Will that prediction pan out?

City budget hearings are underway. A panel of aldermen joins us with their take on the city budget and Chicago’s long-term fiscal health.

Mayor’s city budget is rife with new taxes and fees. New details on Chicago’s Amazon bid. Bulls player suspended after punching teammate. And the Cubs season comes to a close. 

A two-year, stopgap measure still needs congressional approval, but it was the latest twist in the health care saga that has millions of Americans uncertain about the future of their insurance coverage.

Chicago’s 47th Ward alderman has ended his bid for Illinois governor after failing to raise enough money. “I’m a regular person,” he said. “If people like me get essentially priced out of the Democratic process, I believe we’re headed to a really scary place.”

Meet author Sonja Williams, who tells the story of a pioneering Chicago writer—and the lives he chronicled—in the book “Word Warrior: Richard Durham, Radio, and Freedom.”

As accusations mount against Hollywood film executive Harvey Weinstein, a look at sexual harassment and assault.

We preview the start of the Cubs’ playoff run with sports reporter Cheryl Raye Stout.

A new book by a Chicago community activist and mentor explains how cities can become safer and more equitable, and why we all have a stake in our neighborhoods. 

A new report ranks Chicago’s chances of landing a massive new Amazon location as high—but will the costs be worth it?

The governor signs a controversial bill. Chicago cops mimic NFL player protests. City leaders push hard for Amazon headquarters. Chicago native Hugh Hefner dies at age 91. And the Cubs clinch their division for the second straight year. 

Author Denise Kiernan talks about the tumultuous history of a North Carolina home that’s detailed in her new book.

Get ready, writers and editors: We take a look inside the newest edition of the Chicago Manual of Style and discuss its most attention-grabbing new rules with Carol Fisher Saller.

Northwestern University alum Lisa Byington made history earlier this month as the first woman to call a college football game on the Big Ten Network.