Stories by Brandis Friedman

Whether she’s on stage or on television, it’s hard to not notice Misty Copeland, the professional ballet dancer making history as the first black woman to be named a principal dancer for the iconic American Ballet Theatre.

Melting snow and more than 2 inches of rain have caused flooding and sewer backups in and around Chicago.

The production of “Cosi fan tutte” now at Lyric Opera of Chicago is a beauty. And in its playful but unquestionably bittersweet exploration of love, fidelity, betrayal and the unreliable nature of both men and women, it could easily have been written yesterday.

“I saw each and every one of you from the darkened window of my car,” Erin Bauer wrote in an open letter Tuesday. “The good people in this world far outnumber the bad. Grace and I are humbled, as Paul would be.”

Mayor Rahm Emanuel joined 230-plus mayors Tuesday in formally opposing the Trump administration’s proposed repeal of the Clean Power Plan, which aims to reduce carbon emissions that contribute to climate change.

Republicans have spent years trying to thwart House Speaker Michael Madigan. As allegations of sexual harassment by those in Madigan’s inner circle continue to swirl, leading Democrats are joining that chorus.

A forecast of heavy rain, unseasonably warm temperatures and melting snow presents a flooding risk for Chicago. MWRD offers tips to prevent basement backups and reduce strain on local water systems. 

During a special edition of Chicago Tonight, all six Democratic candidates for governor join us to answer questions from an audience of 50 high school students and discuss issues facing Illinois’ young people. 

Learn about the candidates running for Cook County treasurer in the March 20 election as part of WTTW’s 2018 Voters’ Guide to the Cook County Primary.

Learn about the candidates running for Cook County clerk in the March 20 election as part of WTTW’s 2018 Voters’ Guide to the Cook County Primary.

Learn about the candidates running for Cook County Board president in the March 20 election as part of WTTW’s 2018 Voters’ Guide to the Cook County Primary.

Learn about the candidates running for Cook County assessor in the March 20 election as part of WTTW’s 2018 Voters’ Guide to the Cook County Primary.

Learn about the candidates running for Metropolitan Water Reclamation District commissioner (two-year and six-year terms) in the March 20 election as part of WTTW’s 2018 Voters’ Guide to the Cook County Primary.

Learn about the candidates running for Cook County commissioner in the March 20 election as part of WTTW’s 2018 Voters’ Guide to the Cook County Primary.

“The Sheriff’s Office has won praise for progressive reforms to improve and maintain the safety and security of all those housed and employed at the Cook County Jail,” Thomas Dart writes. Learn more about this candidate.

“I am running for this office to bring a voice of environmental conservation and a continued commitment to clean water,” writes Kimberly Neely DuBuclet. Learn more about this candidate.

“With climate change creating increased rainfall, the MWRD must approve more innovative green projects to lessen stress placed upon city sewer systems,” writes Rachel Wales. Learn more about this candidate.

“I’m running for re‐election because the people of Cook County deserve a strong conservation advocate on the Board, because I’ve been able to be an effective leader, and because water matters,” writes Debra Shore. Learn more about this candidate.

“I work diligently every day, to protect workers, promote fiscal responsibility and transparency, and ensure we maintain a clean water environment,” writes Kari Steele. Learn more about this candidate.

“In me, you will have a dedicated public servant, dedicated to maximizing the value of your tax dollar and ensuring transparency,” writes Martin Durkan. Learn more about this candidate.

“Green Party candidates are calling for enhanced green infrastructure to cope with the new normal,” writes Karen Roothaan. Learn more about this candidate.

“Acknowledging climate change and implementing strategies to address this reality are essential to the operation of the district,” writes Tammie Vinson. Learn more about this candidate.

“The Board at the MWRDGC is in need for significant balance to afford opportunity for unbiased growth and leadership,” writes R. Cary Capparelli. Learn more about this candidate.

“I am running to give my family and all Cook County residents clean and safe water,” writes Shundar Lin. Learn more about this candidate.

“The Assessor’s Office might not be the most glamourous office, but it’s one where we can make a real improvement in people’s lives,” Frederick “Fritz” Kaegi writes. Learn more about this candidate.

“While we’ve made tremendous progress, there’s more work to do to improve the health and safety of our residents in every neighborhood,” Toni Preckwinkle writes. Learn more about this candidate.