Stories by Hunter Clauss

Library Chief Makes ‘Most Creative’ List, Talks Beach Reading

We check in with the Chicago Public Library chief about being named in Fast Company's 100 “Most Creative People in Business” and what books he's taking to the beach this summer.

Mayor Emanuel’s Pension Plan Survives Rauner’s Veto

Mayor Rahm Emanuel lauded lawmakers who voted to override Gov. Bruce Rauner's veto of a pension bill that relieves some short-term pressure on city taxpayers. But what does it mean in the long term?

Chicago Ranked 12th Fittest City in America

The City of Broad Shoulders measures up to its moniker in terms of fitness. The Chicago metropolitan area was recently named the 12th fittest in the nation.

The Week in Review: Budget Clock is Ticking

Joel Weisman and his panel discuss the week’s news, including the ongoing budget impasse and battle over education funding.

Original Chicago Cocktail: Mayor Bossy

Following a whopper of a blizzard in 1979, Sauganash native Jane Byrne narrowly upset Mayor Michael Bilandic for the Democratic mayoral nomination. Belly up to the bar and get a little taste of Chicago’s spirited history: a frosty milkshake spiked with whiskey and vodka.

May 26, 2016 - Full Show

Watch the May 26, 2016 full episode of "Chicago Tonight."

City Treasurer to Mayor Emanuel: Sue Big Banks

In a surprise move, Chicago's City Treasurer Kurt Summers joins the chorus calling on the mayor to sue big banks over controversial swap deals that have cost taxpayers millions of dollars. 

Do Chicago Police Have a Code of Silence?

A whistleblower lawsuit filed by two police officers claim that Chicago police have a “code of silence.” We discuss whether the code exists with our guests.

Study: Some People ‘Hardwired’ for Chronic Pain

What our age may or may not say about our health, why some people may be “hardwired” to experience chronic pain, and a possible explanation for the ice geysers on Saturn's moon Enceladus. Rabiah Mayas joins “Chicago Tonight” to examine these stories and more. 

Hedy Weiss Reviews: ‘The Sign in Sidney Brustein’s Window,’ More

The Chicago Sun-Times theater critic reviews four plays that address societal challenges and conflicts, including Goodman Theatre’s revival of the rarely staged second play by “Raisin in the Sun” author Lorraine Hansberry.

Restored Art Installation Invites Reflection on Consequences of War

A prominent work of art has been out of the public eye for almost five years. Titled “Above and Beyond,” the installation commemorates American soldiers who lost their lives in the Vietnam War, and it's back on display at the Harold Washington Library.

Political Life of Abraham Lincoln Chronicled in New Book Series

The political life of America’s 16th president is being told in a new multi-volume series by Chicago native Sidney Blumenthal.

Weekend Events: Memorial Day Edition

Enjoy the long weekend with a long list of things to do around town, including a performance by the Chicago Children’s Choir, the opening of the new Ferris wheel at Navy Pier and the annual Bike the Drive event.

May 25, 2016 - Full Show

Watch the May 25, 2016 full episode of "Chicago Tonight."

What Do New Overtime Rules Mean for Workers, Businesses?

How will the Obama administration’s expansion of overtime affect businesses and employee wages? We look at the new rules. 

Governor, Republicans Slam Democratic Budget Proposal

Democrats propose a budget that includes hundreds of millions more for Chicago Public Schools. The latest from a heated day in Springfield.

CPS Preps for Last-Minute Funding Pitch

As parents rally for education funding outside of CPS headquarters, district officials prepare for an even bigger rally in Springfield.

Crain’s Roundup: Cubs, Sox, Blackhawks Court Corporate Clients

Chicago sports teams are turning to their heroes of the past to boost the team brands, and a billionaire biotech pioneer wants to revive print newspapers, and he's putting his money on Tribune Publishing. Crain's Chicago Business has the story.

‘Heroes on Deck’ Reveals Story Behind WWII Pilots, Sunken Aircraft

A new documentary tells the amazing story of World War II aviators who earned their wings aboard makeshift aircraft carriers on Lake Michigan.

Ron Magers’ Final Newscast After 51-Year Career

Ron Magers signs off Wednesday night after 51 years in television news, including almost 35 in Chicago. He started here at WMAQ-Channel 5, where he co-anchored with “Chicago Tonight” host Carol Marin for 13 years. In April, Magers sat down for a conversation with his former “TV wife.”

Delmark Records an Encore for Local Jazz, Blues Enthusiast Bob Koester

The legendary owner of a storied Chicago record store is back in business after a very brief retirement. 

Ask Geoffrey: Earl ‘Madman’ Muntz’s Crazy Chicago Story

Did a used-car salesman design and build his sleek and sporty luxury car right here in Chicago? Geoffrey Baer has that story and more.

May 24, 2016 - Full Show

Watch the May 24, 2016 full episode of "Chicago Tonight."

Turning Wastewater into Fertilizer, MWRD Plant Battles Nutrient Pollution

A brand new water treatment facility that takes wastewater and creates high-grade fertilizer comes online for the Metropolitan Water Reclamation District in Stickney.

Illinois Fiscal Watchdog Under Investigation for Campaign Spending

The state's fiscal watchdog, Illinois Auditor General Frank Mautino, is under federal investigation. Meet the citizen watchdogs who broke the story.

Lawmaker Meetings Continue, But No State Budget

There was a flurry of late-session activity in the Illinois House and Senate on Tuesday, but still no budget deal.
 

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