Stories by WTTW News
Architecture Upswing Hits Chicago
As construction in urban areas picks up, the Chicago Loop feels the momentum. The old Chicago Motor Club building may be converted into a hotel soon while the Thompson Center waits its turn for a facelift.
Cardinal George Enrolls in Clinical Research Trial
Chicago Cardinal Francis George will participate in a clinical research trial at the University of Chicago Medicine to treat his cancer.
Weekend Events Around Town: 8/22-8/24
A fashion fest, dancing in Millennium Park, and a 5K obstacle course to raise money for MS; Chicago Tonight knows what’s going on this weekend.
Web Extra: The Week in Review: 8/22
Joel Weisman and his panel of journalists breakdown the Chicago mayoral race, and debate whether Karen Lewis will actually throw her hat in the ring. Also, they discuss the likelihood of having two political newcomers – Lewis and Bruce Rauner – both being elected.
Chicago Tonight: The Week in Review: 8/22
Joel Weisman and his panel of journalists discuss this week’s headlines.
James Foley: ‘A Brave, Fearless Journalist’
Medill Grad Remembered by Professors
James Foley always wanted to be where the stories were and where the people were. Chicago Tonight talks with those who knew him during his time at Northwestern University’s Medill School of Journalism.
Settlement Reached with Bank of America
Illinois Attorney General Lisa Madigan announces a $300 million settlement related to the foreclosure crisis, much of that will go into the state's beleaguered pension system. It's part of a record national $17 billion settlement with Bank of America. Paris Schutz has the latest.
Jane Lynch
We catch up with Chicago native actor and comedian Jane Lynch, who just won another Emmy Award.
Old St. Pat's Church
Documentary Shines Light on Revival of Church
A new documentary tells how a struggling Chicago church reinvented itself and revitalized a declining neighborhood.
Living Your Truth
Arts Program Teaches Young People to Find Their Voice
A vibrant 17-year-old with a beaming smile, Mekel Johnson walked into the room prepared for an interview that could grant him the opportunity to end his summer with a memorable trip.
Gubernatorial Race Heats Up
Candidates Announce Debate Schedules
Republican candidate for governor Bruce Rauner agrees to a series of debates with Gov. Pat Quinn. But why is the Quinn camp calling Rauner’s debate schedule "phony" and "concocted?" Paris Schutz has the latest.
John Dean on the Watergate Cover-up
Former White House counsel John Dean talks about the Watergate cover-up, that missing 18 and a half minutes of tape, and what the president knew and when he knew it.
Viewer Feedback: 8/20
Remembering Robin Williams
We share what you had to say about recent stories when we read some of our viewer feedback.
Update on State's Medical Cannabis Program
Everything you need to know about Illinois’ Medical Cannabis program. On Wednesday, Aug. 20, state officials will hold a question and answer session for potential patients, growers, and sellers of medical marijuana.
Raider of the Lost Art
Curator of Suburban Museum Has Sixth Sense for Finding Forgotten Artwork
A little-known Chicago artist is finally getting the attention he deserves – in Des Plaines.
Controversial Comments Resurface in Pending Mayoral Race
A Facebook group entitled “Karen Lewis for Mayor of Chicago” posted an offensive comment Sunday that brought back reminders from Rahm Emanuel’s first campaign for congressman.
Ash-har Quraishi on the Situation in Ferguson
We talk with an Al Jazeera correspondent about being on the ground in Ferguson and the impact police presence is having on protesters and the press.
John Dean on ‘The Nixon Defense’
Forty years ago, President Richard Nixon resigned his presidency following the Watergate scandal. We talk to Nixon's legal counsel John Dean, described by the FBI as "the master manipulator of the cover-up."
Fighting Emerald Ash Borer
We see how the city is taking care of Ash trees hit by the Emerald Ash borer.
New Study Addresses Perceptions of Police
The Black Youth Project at the University of Chicago released a report Friday, Aug. 15 detailing the lack of trust in the police and legal system.
Elected School Boards
It will be a hot issue in the upcoming mayoral campaign—an elected school board. Chicago Students Union will march in favor of an elected board in a rally. We discuss the growing debate on Chicago Tonight.
Local Chef Wins ‘Hell’s Kitchen’
We meet the Loyola University chef and "Hell's Kitchen" winner who will be leaving for Las Vegas to work in Gordon Ramsay's restaurant.
Viewer Feedback: 8/18
Genetically Modified Foods
We share what you had to say about recent stories when we read some of our viewer feedback.
Farina City
Local Actor Makes His Mark, Steps Out of Father’s Long Shadow
Joe Farina doesn’t strongly resemble his dad -- the late actor Dennis Farina -- but he shares a similar everyman quality.
Weekend Events Around Town: 8/15-8/17
The annual Air and Water show, an international neighborhood festival, and an interactive arts festival; Chicago Tonight knows what’s going on this weekend.
Web Extra: The Week in Review: 8/15
Joel Weisman and his panel of journalists discuss comedian Robin Williams' suicide, and how his battle with depression could impact the national conversation on mental illness.
Trending
2026 Chicago Summer Festival Guide
Deep Tunnel Reservoirs Nearly Full as Chicago Region Pounded With Rain Over Holiday Weekend
Who Is Running, or Thinking About Running, to Become Chicago’s Next Mayor
Bipartisan Housing Bill Still Awaits Trump’s Signature. Here’s What the Bill Would Do
Chicago’s Pension Debt Increased in 2025 to $36.4B: City Analysis
Sign up for the WTTW News newsletter