Stories by Rhyan Zuercher

Celebrity chef Lidia Bastianich has educated audiences across the U.S. about traditional Italian dishes and ways of living. Her cooking show Lidia's Kitchen explores different styles of cooking throughout Italian regions while also making it accessible for viewers. Bastianich stops by the studio to talk about her success in the food and restaurant world, as well as where her love for cooking and quality ingredients originated from.

We have your thoughts on Illinois' first attempts at pension reform in tonight's viewer feedback.

When Atlantic magazine correspondent Ta-Nehisi Coates wrote his article, The Case for Reparations, he sought out to tell the history of the North Lawndale neighborhood, to educate readers, and encourage critical thinking among the masses. What he didn’t expect was for his piece to be used as a teaching tool and the premise for senior projects at North Lawndale College Prep. 

As Ferguson, Mo. awaited a grand jury's decision, a predominant writer on race in America shared his views. 

The mayoral candidate field is finally set. Who's in? Who's out? We break it down.

A Sangamon County judge tossed lawmakers' much touted pension reform law saying it's unconstitutional. Now it heads to the Illinois Supreme Court. What does this mean for pensioners and for Illinois, which has the worst bond rating in the nation and faces a $105 billion unfunded public employee pension liability? 

The Bears rebound from a lackluster first half to beat Lovie Smith's Buccaneers. James "Big Cat" Williams recaps the defense's four takeaways, and Jay Cutler's interception-free performance.

The price tag for the new DePaul University arena slated to be built on the Near South Side appears to be growing dramatically -- as much as 75 percent more than the original estimate.

Theater critic Hedy Weiss joins Chicago Tonight to review a roundup of shows to see before the holidays.

Illinois has lost the first round in its attempt to uphold recently enacted changes to the state’s pension law. Sangamon County Court Judge John Belz has found that the pension reform law is unconstitutional and “void in its entirety.” 

Joel Weisman and his panel of journalists discuss this week’s headlines.

Joel Weisman and his panel of journalists continue the conversation online, with more about the legacy of former Mayor Jane Byrne, the post-election interactions between Bruce Rauner and Pat Quinn, and future job options for Pat Quinn.

Christkindlmarket, the Magnificent Mile Lights Festival, and the Chicago Toy & Game Fair; Chicago Tonight knows what’s going on this weekend.

The Memory Archives aims to preserve the stories of Holocaust survivors in the Chicagoland area. The joint project between Northwestern and University of Hamburg students premieres Thursday night.

President Barack Obama addresses the nation on immigration reform. Chicago Tonight talks with local analysts about the president’s speech.      

A new report says the state is falling behind in funding its public schools. But with finances a mess, where will incoming governor Bruce Rauner find the money?

Legendary film and stage director Mike Nichols died at age 83. Nichols is remembered for being among the pioneering forces in the early days of our sister station, WFMT.

Lyric Opera of Chicago is currently presenting a production of Porgy and Bess with two highly acclaimed singers in the lead roles.

We share what you had to say about air traffic noise near O'Hare Airport and Sandhill Cranes in tonight's viewer feedback.

More than two weeks after the election, the Illinois Treasurer’s race has been decided. Democratic candidate Mike Frerichs will become the next treasurer.

City of Chicago property taxes will not be going up next year, but a host of other fines and fees will as part of Mayor Rahm Emanuel's 2015 budget. City Council approved the budget today by a 46-4 vote.

Residents in Chicago and the suburbs complain that changes to takeoff and landing patterns at Chicago O'Hare International Airport are making previously quiet neighborhoods excessively noisy.

Former congressman and mental illness advocate Patrick Kennedy discusses his life's work, his personal struggle with bipolar disorder and addiction, and why this is one of the most crucial civil rights issues today.

The first phase of the new wilderness park on Northerly Island should be open next spring. We take a look at the transformation of Northerly Island over the last year and a half.

Geoffrey Baer answers viewer questions about a dreamy memorial, Soldier Field no man's land, and railroad ruins on Chicago's South Side.

As of Tuesday, Blase Cupich will become the new Archbishop of the Chicago Diocese. We explore the transition process and what can be expected from Archbishop Cupich as he takes on his new flock.