Stories by WTTW News

We take a sneak peek at the documentary Make No Little Plans: Daniel Burnham and the American City, which airs tonight at 8:00 on WTTW.

We are joined by Homer Bryant, an inspiring dance teacher on Chicago's South side, who calls himself a teacher of life.

An expert from the Chicago Botanic Garden joins us with last minute tips on holiday greenery. Chicago Botanic Garden Events

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

Senate candidates Alexi Giannoulias and David Hoffman had an unusually sharp exchange at a debate this morning at the Union League Club. Rich Samuels has the details.

Illinois nursing homes are not just for the elderly -- some are also populated by the mentally ill, criminals, and sex offenders. And for many of Illinois' elderly, it's proven to be a dangerous mix. Carol Marin and her panel weigh in on this troubling situation.

John Musker, the Chicago-born director of the latest Disney hit, The Princess and the Frog, stops by. Web Exclusive: More of our interview with John Musker

Tired of the same old Christmas songs? A Chicago-based internet radio site is offering up thousands of holiday songs for every mood and interest, from heavy metal Christmas to smooth jazz Hanukkah. Eddie Arruza tells us about AccuHolidays, where you can choose from more than 40 radio stations to help you get into the holiday spirit.

From classic to campy, there is something for everyone in Chicago's holiday theater offerings. A panel of theater critics offers their recommendations for shows you cannot miss.

He's shared the stage with Mick, Keith, and company for the better part of two decades. We have a performance from Rolling Stones bass player and Chicago native Darryl Jones. Musician's Network MECCA

Some Guantanamo Bay detainees will be heading to Thomson Prison, in northwestern Illinois, under orders from the federal government. Rich Samuels was in Thomson today and shares how local residents were reacting to the news.

Elizabeth Brackett goes one-on-one with State Comptroller and Democratic Gubernatorial hopeful Dan Hynes.

Chicago Police Superintendent Jody Weis talks about violence in the city, the missing persons reporting system, and other items on the police beat.

We've convened a panel of book lovers to help you choose the best books to give -- and read -- this holiday season. Al Gini's List

Check, Please! host and master sommelier Alpana Singh joins us with answers to your questions about wine and spirits. She also gives us her recommendations for New Year's Eve champagne and sparkling wine. Alpana's Champagne Recommendations

Some radio stations are playing holiday tunes around the clock...but our sister station WFMT is devoting its entire programming this week to one great composer. WFMT's Program Director Peter Whorf joins us to explain why.

As the election primaries inch closer, recently released poll numbers show surprising numbers. Carol Marin breaks down the races for Senate, Governor, County Board President and much more.

There was talk recently of turning a building that used to house the Three Arts Club in Chicago's Gold Coast neighborhood into a columbarium. Kris Kridel joins us with the latest on that story, plus the rest of the week's business news.

The Bears' slim playoff hopes are officially dead thanks to interceptions, penalties, and a costly coaching move. We recap yesterday's defeat at the hands of the rival Packers with former Bear Glen Kozlowski.

Joel and his panel discuss the week's top headlines: Cook County Board President Todd Stroger's re-election bid suffers a set-back after a new poll of Democratic primary voters shows him in third place; Governor Quinn signed a sweeping law this week that limits campaign donations; Illinois now has the second-worst bond rating in the nation; Chicago is battling the bitter cold; and Bulls coach Vinny Del Negro is on the hot seat after the team loses 9 of their last 10 games. Guests:

There were fewer job losses in November than initially feared. Does that mean the recession is over? Eddie Arruza and his panel have more on that and whether a second stimulus package might be needed.

A wind turbine in your backyard? We show you how some residents are generating -- and running on -- wind power.

We have some of your thoughts on Cook County Board President Todd Stroger when we read our viewer mail.

Governor Quinn signed Illinois's first campaign finance reform legislation on the one-year anniversary of Governor Blagojevich's arrest. Rich Samuels has the details.

What does it mean when the State of Illinois's bond rating is lowered? It happened yesterday, and Carol Marin and her panel discuss the impact. Moody's lowers Illinois's bond rating

Do you have room in your life for a retiring greyhound? We tell you about the closing of Wisconsin's last greyhound-racing facility and its dozens of dogs now in need of new homes. Greyhound Adoption Greyhounds Only, Inc.