Stories by WTTW News

Carol Marin and her panel take a closer look at the governor's fiscal plan.

Chicago tour boat and barge operators are up in arms about one of the proposals for keeping invasive Asian carp out of Lake Michigan -- periodic closures of locks and of the Chicago River itself. Our Geoffrey Baer joins us to help clarify this controversial issue.

Governor Quinn presented a state budget for what he calls "a crisis of epic proportions" and his proposals are already drawing fire. Eddie Arruza tells us what the governor wants.

We look back at the legacy of architect Bruce Graham, the man behind Willis Tower and the John Hancock Center. He died Saturday at the age of 84. Legendary Architect Bruce J. Graham Dies -- Skidmore, Owings, and Merrill Bruce Graham Passing -- Council on Tall Buildings and Urban Habitat

Groupon, which pioneered a unique mixture of social networking and group discounts, started in Chicago a little more than 2 years ago and now expects to be in 100 cities by the end of the year. Founder and CEO Andrew Mason joins us to talk about the company's quick rise.

We remember Chicago activist and labor leader Frank Lumpkin, who died earlier this month. Memorial services for Frank Lumpkin are set for 10 a.m. April 5 at the union hall at 11731 S. Avenue O, and also at noon April 24 near the Haymarket Memorial at Waldheim Cemetery in Forest Park.

Now that State Senator Kirk Dillard has conceded to State Senator Bill Brady, the Republican ticket for the general election is set. Carol Marin breaks down the race for governor.

It's not just homeowners who are hurting because of a tough real estate market -- downtown office buildings are feeling the pinch, too. Kris Kridel joins us with the details, plus the rest of the week's business news.

The Museum of Science and Industry's "Smart Home" is now even smarter. Eddie Arruza tells us about the home's green makeover. Smart Home: Green + Wired

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

Tonight's panel discusses the week's top headlines; U.S. Senate hopeful Alexi Giannoulias' family bank is on the brink of collapse; Chicago's longstanding hand gun ban is facing a Supreme Court challenge; the University of Illinois is considering hiking their tuition 20%; Chicago ministers are throwing their support behind another Walmart; and Bulls players are battling the injury bug. Guests:

The City Colleges of Chicago need to be reinvented. That is what Mayor Daley has told his newly appointed City Colleges Board Chairman, Gery Chico. Eddie Arruza talks to Chico about the challenges of turning around the seven financially strapped schools.

Cook County State's Attorney Anita Alvarez joins us to discuss her efforts to fight human trafficking.

What do you do if your toddler swallows the light bulb from a flashlight? Actor/comedian Bob Wiltfong answers that question in his new one-man show, The Manny Diaries. We get other tips when he joins us in the studio. The Manny Diaries at Gorilla Tango Theatre

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. Punch Brothers at Old Town School of Folk Music

What glamorous blonde movie star from the 1920s, 30s, 40s, and 50s shares her name with two South side Chicago streets? We get the answer in tonight's edition of Ask Geoffrey. McCormick Row House District Constance Bennett--IMDB.com

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

Democratic U.S. Senate candidate Alexi Giannoulias joins us to discuss what role he played in his now-struggling family bank.

John Cuneo, Jr. has donated his family's $30 million mansion and its $10 million art collection to Loyola University. We go inside the estate and get a first-hand look at a bygone era of American aristocracy.

We talk with an expert from the Chicago Botanic Garden who has early gardening tips about how to jump-start your garden. 2010 Chicago Flower and Garden Show Plant Information Services at the Garden

We have a special performance from members of the Chicago Jazz Philharmonic, including Chicago's trumpet master Orbert Davis. Chicago Jazz Philharmonic: From Ella to Mandela

The U.S. Supreme Court did not appear convinced that Chicago's handgun ban should stand. Eddie Arruza talks with two constitutional law professors about the landmark case argued today.

Hundreds have died following the devastating earthquake in Chile. We find out about Chicago's ongoing humanitarian efforts. Chicago American Red Cross

In need of some medical attention itself, the old Cook County Hospital will undergo a facelift, says the Cook County Board. Architecture blogger Lee Bey tells us why he thinks it's worth the money. Lee Bey's Blog on Vocalo.org

We travel back to the Ice Age as mastodons and mammoths take over the Field Museum.

We sit down with local photographer Stephen Hamilton, who was tapped to be a guest judge on the upcoming season of Bravo's Top Chef Masters.