Stories by Alex Ruppenthal

Chicago-based environmental group Openlands has received a $1 million grant to address climate change by planting new trees and recruiting residents to protect them. 

A gene associated with the learning disorder dyslexia may make some athletes less susceptible to concussions, according to a new study by Northwestern Medicine and Penn State University.

Caterpillar beat most profit and revenue expectations in the third quarter, but company shares were punished Tuesday when Wall Street sensed some pessimism in the company's outlook, which remains unchanged.

They say “the music died” on the day in 1959 when rock ‘n’ roll legend Buddy Holly perished in a plane crash. But that geeky Texas boy with the trademark thick glasses is still making a big noise.

With Election Day just two weeks away, controversy is swirling in the race at the top of the ticket – a race that’s breaking records when it comes to self-financing.

A Bensenville-based home renovation company has agreed to pay nearly $53,000 for alleged violations of federal laws designed to protect against exposure to lead-based paint. 

Watch the Oct. 22, 2018 full episode of “Chicago Tonight.”

You want a piece of Chicago? An array of notable works of art and historic Chicago artifacts are up for auction.

The Chicago Tribune architecture critic points out what he sees as the shortcomings of Cityfront Center in Streeterville.

“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.

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.

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).

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.

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.

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.

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.

Paris Schutz and guests discuss the wide-open race for Chicago mayor and the future of the Cubs’ coaching staff.

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.

The 2,300-pound rhinoceros, Layla, logged an important milestone this week, celebrating her eighth birthday just months after overcoming a near-deadly infection.

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. 

Watch the Oct. 18, 2018 full episode of “Chicago Tonight.”

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.

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.

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.”

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.”

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.