Stories by Evan Garcia
Blair Kamin: Cityfront Center Development is ‘Mediocre,’ ‘Underachieving’
| Evan Garcia
The Chicago Tribune architecture critic points out what he sees as the shortcomings of Cityfront Center in Streeterville.
On College Campuses, Consent Education is Lacking, New Book Argues
| Nicole Cardos
“Consent on Campus: A Manifesto” looks at how colleges can improve their policies and education on sexual violence and consent. We speak with the book’s author, Donna Freitas.
Mega Millions Players Would Spend $1.6B on Bills, Charity
| Associated Press
With the Mega Millions lottery jackpot at a record $1.6 billion, people are snapping up tickets across the U.S., dreaming of how they would spend the money should they beat the astronomical odds of winning.
6th Congressional District Forum: Sean Casten, Peter Roskam
| Alexandra Silets
In one of the most-watched Congressional races this election season, six-term incumbent, U.S. Rep. Peter Roskam (R-Wheaton), is facing political newcomer Sean Casten (D-Downers Grove).
Chicago Officers to be Equipped with Narcan Through New Pilot Program
| Matt Masterson
The Chicago Police Department will outfit officers in a half-dozen South and West Side districts with an opioid overdose-reversal medicine as part of a $2 million federal grant.
At the CSO, a Pianist Shakes the Musical Universe With a Prokofiev Concerto
| Hedy Weiss
You have just one more chance to catch a concert at Symphony Center that brings you into direct contact with absolute genius. Beg, borrow (or maybe even steal) a ticket to hear 27-year-old Russian pianist Daniil Trifonov in an electrifying performance.
UChicago Researchers Get $3.4M to Develop Brain-Controlled Prosthesis
| Kristen Thometz
University of Chicago researchers will develop robotic arms that patients can move with their brains, thanks to a grant from the National Institutes of Health.
The Week in Review: Pritzker Disputes Discrimination Claims
| Nick Blumberg
An October surprise in the governor’s race. Mayor Rahm Emanuel delivers his final budget address. Chance the Rapper rolls the dice on the mayoral election. And the Bears prep for the Patriots.
Web Extra, The Week in Review: The Race for Chicago Mayor
| Nick Blumberg
Paris Schutz and guests discuss the wide-open race for Chicago mayor and the future of the Cubs’ coaching staff.
Chicago Man Charged With Aiding ISIS Through Social Media
| Matt Masterson
A North Side man allegedly used Twitter, Facebook and other social media applications to spread propaganda, recruit operatives, encourage terrorist attacks and provide aid to ISIS.
Brookfield Zoo Rhino Celebrates Birthday After Surviving Life-Threatening Infection
| Alex Ruppenthal
The 2,300-pound rhinoceros, Layla, logged an important milestone this week, celebrating her eighth birthday just months after overcoming a near-deadly infection.
New Group Targets Overlooked Stretch of Chicago River
| Alex Ruppenthal
The Lathrop Riverfront Group was formed to promote the section of riverfront near the Julia C. Lathrop Homes, a Chicago Housing Authority project that is being redeveloped into a mixed-income riverfront community.
Joffrey Ballet Dancers Demonstrate Their Prowess in ‘Swan Lake’
| Hedy Weiss
It has been four years since the Joffrey Ballet first performed Christopher Wheeldon’s reimagining of “Swan Lake.” Its current revival serves as a vivid indication of the extraordinary artistry that now defines the Joffrey, from principal dancers to corps.
Cornel West on Van Dyke Verdict, Kanye and President Trump
| Brandis Friedman
He’s considered one of the country’s most visible intellectuals, noted for the way he expresses his views on racism, politics and even pop culture. A conversation with author and professor Cornel West.
Neil deGrasse Tyson Explores ‘Unspoken Alliance’ Between Space Exploration, Military Might
| Evan Garcia
The evolving and often parallel relationship between scientific and military minds is the focus of a new book from astrophysicist Neil deGrasse Tyson: “Accessory to War: The Unspoken Alliance Between Astrophysics and the Military.”
Report Identifies ‘Alarming’ Statewide Trends in Maternal Deaths
| Kristen Thometz
Each year, an average of 73 Illinois women die within one year of pregnancy, according to a new report. “The findings are stark and speak volumes,” said IDPH Director Nirav Shah. “The disparities are even more alarming.”
Madigan, Emanuel Announce 4 Finalists to Oversee Chicago Police Reform
| Matt Masterson
A retired judge, a former U.S. prosecutor and a local firm reviewing Chicago Public Schools’ response to sexual misconduct are among the finalists to oversee police reforms in the city.
Duck Hunting in Chicago? Yep, at City’s Only State Park
| Evan Garcia
For 70 years, hunters have been shooting waterfowl at Wolf Lake on the city’s Far South Side. It is the only state park within city limits, and one of the only places to hunt in Chicago. We go for a visit.
LGBTQ Publication Suing Illinois Prison Officials Over Censored Materials
| Matt Masterson
Local attorneys filed a suit on behalf of the Chicago chapter of Black & Pink – a nonprofit that offers prisoners news updates on LGBTQ issues through a monthly newsletter and other publications.
Ezekiel Emanuel on ACA Impact, Future of Health Care
| Kristen Thometz
The older brother of Mayor Rahm Emanuel spoke about the “tremendous impact” of the Affordable Care Act and related topics at a conference in Chicago on Thursday.
In Porchlight’s ‘Gypsy,’ a Mama Rose of Hurricane Force
| Hedy Weiss
With her force-of-nature personality, powerhouse voice and galvanic emotional range, E. Faye Butler was clearly was born to play Mama Rose.
10 Things to Do This Weekend: Oct. 18-21
| Kristen Thometz
A Halloween parade, costumed canines, a zombie apocalypse and international films usher in the weekend. Here are 10 things to do in and around Chicago.
Nearly 50 Years Later, Highwood Bocce Club Members Still Having a Ball
| Jay Shefsky
You may know it as bocce ball, bocci or bocce. But however you say it (or spell it) this ancient Italian sport is gaining in popularity with U.S. players. We visit north suburban Highwood for a look – and a lesson.
Manufacturing, Optimism Rising Nationwide as Illinois Lags Behind
| Nicole Cardos
A new survey finds Americans are optimistic about manufacturing. But with a looming trade war and uncertainty over a new deal with Canada and Mexico, there’s still some concern for the future.
Thanks to our sponsors:
Trending
‘This is Only the Beginning’: Illinois Accountability Commission Hears First Testimony on Federal Agents’ Use of Force in Chicago
Chicago Bears’ Threat to Move to Indiana a ‘Slap in the Face,’ Gov. Pritzker’s Office Says
City Council Votes 30-18 to Approve Final Part of 2026 Budget. Will Mayor Veto It?
City Council Votes 29-19 to Approve Rival Spending Plan, Rebuking Mayor Johnson
Johnson Stops Short of Vowing to Veto Rival Budget Plan, But Calls It ‘Morally Bankrupt’
Sign up for the WTTW News newsletter