Stories by WTTW News

Should the state's budget problems be solved with tax hikes, or budget cuts and pension reforms? It depends on which civic organizations you ask. Elizabeth Brackett sorts out the debate.

Carol Marin sits down with famed feminist and political activist Gloria Steinem. Women's Media Center

Jazz is a quintessential and sometimes hidden part of Chicago history. We talk to Chicago Tribune critic Howard Reich, who chronicles the genre in his new book, Let Freedom Swing: Collected Writings on Jazz, Blues and Gospel. Hyde Park Jazz Festival

When mandolin superstar Chris Thile needed a banjo player for his latest band, Punch Brothers, he chose Skokie native Noam Pikelny. We go behind the scenes at a Punch Brothers rehearsal.

Proper use of the English language matters--that was the contention of longtime NBC news correspondent and anchor Edwin Newman, who died last month. We revisit John Callaway's 1976 conversation with Newman about the importance of grammar.

With more than a dozen African-Americans reportedly considering a run for mayor, we look at how that community--and others--may try to whittle down the field.

For two years a state website provided physicians' records, but earlier this year the law mandating this database was struck down. Should the state resurrect the database? We hear from both sides of this healthcare issue. Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation House Bill 6409

A hungry insect is devastating Illinois' ash trees. Jay Shefsky introduces us to some researchers who are trying to understand the emerald ash borer--and find an ash tree that can co-exist with the pervasive pest. Comprehensive website about the Emerald Ash Borer Emerald Ash Borer in Illinois Morton Arboretum

This year marks the 200th anniversary of Oktoberfest! What makes a good Oktoberfest beer, and which ones should we choose for this celebration? Check, Please! host and master sommelier Alpana Singh shares some of her favorites. Alternatives to Kozel Dark Beer:

Cook County Board President Todd Stroger's chief spokesman addresses recent news reports that he received more than $13,000 worth of new furniture for his office.

WBBM Newsradio 780's Kris Kridel tells us about the week's top business news, including Gatorade's new social media initiative, which some people are finding a bit too invasive.

How a local organization is turning an abandoned truck depot into an urban farm just minutes away from U.S. Cellular Field. Iron Street Farm Growing Power

The Bears pull off an unexpected win over the Dallas Cowboys. Ed O'Bradovich joins us on the Bears Alumni Club to break down the game.

On tonight's edition of Chicago Tonight: The Week In Review -- Frustrated cops complained to Chicago Police Superintendent Jody Weis about a manpower shortage; the field of possible mayoral contenders grew more crowded with State Senator Rickey Hendon officially jumping into the race, while former U.S. Senator Carol Moseley Braun, Congressman Jesse Jackson, Jr., and State Senator Rev. James Meeks are all mulling bids; and the CTA cut more than 70 jobs in an effort to balance the 2011 budget.

Bed bugs are back! We find out why they are making a return and what you can do to protect yourself from them.

We find out about a now-empty building that was once a lively center for the arts in Chicago as well as a safe haven for young women in the big city. 3Arts Three Arts Club of Chicago Friends Blog Metropolitan Pier and Exposition Authority

Love prevails in Leonard Bernstein's Candide at the Goodman Theatre. We talk to key members of the creative team behind this highly anticipated musical revival. Find out about more about the production and ticket information

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

The mid-term elections are less than two months away. We examine how some of the Illinois races are stacking up when it comes to social media campaigning.

What could Mayor Daley's retirement announcement mean for the future of the business community in Chicago, and what concerns does organized labor have? Phil Ponce and his guests take a look.

Hundreds of people came out today calling for the resignation of Police Superintendent Jody Weis. Ash-har Quraishi was there and has the details.

A new poll shows Republican Bill Brady opening up a large lead over incumbent Pat Quinn in the race for Illinois governor. Is the outcome all but decided, or is Governor Quinn poised for a turnaround in the final months? Carol Marin and her panel take a look.

He was hired to thwart corruption about 10 months ago. What has the city's new inspector general Joseph Ferguson been up to? We find out.

Has electroconvulsive therapy been unfairly given a bad name? We speak with one woman who claims the treatment saved her life. Carol Kivler's website: Courageous Discovery National Alliance on Mental Illness

From the archives, local sci-fi legend Ray Bradbury reads from his fiery classic Fahrenheit 451. Listen to the Echoes: The Ray Bradbury Interviews by Sam Weller

The Riccardo Muti era is about to begin at the Chicago Symphony Orchestra. We talk to the President of the CSO to find out how she managed to catch a superstar of the classical music world. Find out about the CSO's free concert in Millennium Park on Saturday September 19th