Mayor Lori Lightfoot had a lot to say about the Bears moving to Arlington Heights and the future of Soldier Field, Sept. 29, 2021. (WTTW News)

Are the Chicago Bears bound for Arlington Heights? The Obamas finally break ground in Jackson Park. Chicago R&B singer R. Kelly is convicted for sex trafficking. And two local media giants plan to merge.

Gov. J.B. Pritzker announced a mask mandate for all pre-K through 12th grade students and staff at public and private schools, along with day cares, as the delta variant of COVID-19 continues to surge across the state and the country, Aug. 4, 2021. (WTTW News)

The governor institutes a full pre-K through 12 mask mandate. The city’s casino process gets delayed. The governor’s race could get a new entrant. And fire sale Cubs take on the surging Sox.

Gov. J.B. Pritzker gives an update on the coronavirus and announces new reopening guidelines on Thursday, March 18, 2021 (WTTW News)

Gov. Pritzker’s plans for a full reopen. A West Side hospital in trouble for Trump Tower vaccinations. The Bears’ new quarterback lands with a thud, and Loyola and Illinois tip off the NCAA tourney.

New faces meet veteran leadership in the newly seated 101st General Assembly. City Council sees a flurry of reform proposals. Renewed scrutiny over R. Kelly allegations. And a heartbreaking “double doink” ends the Bears season.

Lawmakers reach a deal on school funding. Gov. Bruce Rauner cleans house again. Chicago sees its most violent weekend since July 4. And the Cubs grow a comfortable lead in their division. 

Lawmakers finally pass a budget, but Illinois bonds may still face a junk rating. Holiday weekend violence despite increased police presence. Can the underperforming Cubs right the World Series ship?