President Obama signed an 11th-hour deal averting a devastating debt default. But it’s a short-term deal that may result in another funding battle on January 15 and debt limit deadline February 7. What is the real economic impact of the shutdown? And what effects will it have on markets? We have analysis.

What are the odds that pension reform, same-sex marriage, and gambling will be passed in the coming months? WUIS Statehouse Bureau Chief Amanda Vinicky looks ahead to the Springfield veto session.

Piles of petcoke, a byproduct from oil refineries, building up along the Calumet River have southeast side residents worried about their health. Elizabeth Brackett has the story. Read an article.

A new season of “Check, Please!” kicks off on Friday, Oct. 18 with new host Catherine De Orio. She joins us with a preview. 

We share what you had to say about the new runway at O'Hare airport in tonight’s viewer feedback.

The first speed cameras are officially in action. But is the program different than what Mayor Rahm Emanuel sold it as? Paris Schutz has the story. View a map of speed camera locations.

Senate leaders announce they've reached a deal to end the government shutdown. Carol Marin and her guests have analysis.

The president and CEO of the mutual fund association, Investment Company Institute (ICI), talks with us about retirement savings and how to plan for the future. View graphics of his research.

The days may be getting shorter, but Geoffrey Baer finds it’s always sunny inside these elevators. Find out more in tonight’s Ask Geoffrey.

The movie Gravity, starring George Clooney and Sandra Bullock, has become a runaway box office hit and critical success. And while it’s been hailed for its groundbreaking technical accomplishments, how realistic is it? We hear from some Adler Planetarium astronomers about what they thought of the scientific aspects of the film. Read an Q & A.

The clown princes of classical music, Igudesman and Joo, join us in advance of their performance with the Chicago Symphony Orchestra. Watch web extra performance clips from the duo.

We take a look at the current state of fiscal talks in the U.S. House and Senate. Will Congress beat the debt limit clock? Or is the United States facing default? Our panel has analysis.

Chicago Housing Authority CEO Charles Woodyard's resignation was announced at a CHA board meeting on Tuesday. Natalie Moore, WBEZ's South Side reporter, joins us with the details. Read Woodyard's resignation letter.