It’s a brave new world out there, and one fast-growing career is that of “social media influencer.” We talk with three Chicago-based influencers to find out just what they do.
Stories by Nicole Cardos
Summer Reading List 2019: New and Old Books to Explore
Jul 3, 2019 | Nicole Cardos
Summer in Chicago: There never seems to be enough of it, especially with so many things to do – and read. Need a good recommendation? Here are 15 wide-ranging options from three Chicago authors.
Search: Chicago Property Tax Increases and Decreases by Ward
Jul 3, 2019 | Nicole Cardos
Property taxes are on the rise in many parts of the city, and homeowners will soon get specifics on those hikes in the mail. See ward-by-ward changes for single-family homes across Chicago.
Pension Payment: Analysts on Outlook for State-Controlled Pension System
Jul 1, 2019 | Nicole Cardos
If Chicago wants to ease its pension problems, it’ll need $1 billion in new taxes over the next three years. But Mayor Lori Lightfoot reportedly has another plan up her sleeve.
What Could Reparations for Black Americans Look Like?
Jun 25, 2019 | Nicole Cardos
Although the idea behind reparations is “as old as slavery,” it’s gaining more traction than ever before, said Alvin Tillery, a political science professor at Northwestern University.
Question of Balance: Analysts Talk State Budget, Pension Reform
Jun 19, 2019 | Nicole Cardos
Does Illinois really have a balanced budget? Local analysts weigh in.
In ‘Soulless,’ Jim DeRogatis Details ‘The Case Against R. Kelly’
Jun 12, 2019 | Nicole Cardos
Intimate details about R. Kelly are uncovered in a new book. Jim DeRogatis, the reporter who’s been following the singer for years, discusses “Soulless: The Case Against R. Kelly.”
Mayor Lori Lightfoot on Violence, a Chicago Casino and Ald. Ed Burke
Jun 10, 2019 | Nicole Cardos
Did the Chicago police union instruct cops not to police during the violent Memorial Day weekend? Mayor Lori Lightfoot clarifies a rumor she says she heard in this wide-ranging, one-on-one interview.
City Council Cleanup: Aldermen Discuss Mayor’s Plan for Ethics Reforms
Jun 6, 2019 | Nicole Cardos
In light of the charges against Ald. Ed Burke, what can Mayor Lori Lightfoot and aldermen do to clean up City Hall?
Springfield Showdown: Lawmakers Weigh In on Session’s Local Impact
Jun 3, 2019 | Nicole Cardos
There were emotional floor debates and the passage of a slew of bills as the spring session wrapped up. Just how does all this capitol action affect Chicago and the surrounding areas? Two state lawmakers weigh in.
Beach Season is Here, and Water Safety Advocates Say They’re Worried
May 30, 2019 | Nicole Cardos
Are Chicagoans getting the information they need to stay safe at the beach – and in the lake? A new task force has some recommendations for Chicago beaches.
Underwood Talks Fiery Exchange, New Caucus on Maternal Mortality
May 28, 2019 | Nicole Cardos
It’s been a busy first term for U.S. Rep. Lauren Underwood (D-Naperville). The congresswoman joins us to discuss her freshman year goals and recent headlines.
DCFS Acting Director on Plans for Reform of Troubled Agency
May 23, 2019 | Nicole Cardos
Illinois Department of Children and Family Services has faced troubles for years. Acting Director Marc Smith talks about issues facing the state’s child welfare agency.
New Mayor, New Solutions to Chicago’s Finances? Local Analysts Weigh In
May 22, 2019 | Nicole Cardos
It’s her first week in office, but Mayor Lori Lightfoot doesn’t have time to waste when it comes to city finances. How can Chicago address its fiscal troubles?
Move Over, Meat! Alternative Options Growing in Popularity
May 21, 2019 | Nicole Cardos
There might be a new kind of meat cooking on the grill this weekend: alternative meat. But what is it? And why the craze?
Looking Ahead: Analysts Preview Lightfoot Administration
May 16, 2019 | Nicole Cardos
Mayor-elect Lori Lightfoot unveils an ambitious 100-day plan. We talk to experts about what the future holds under a Lightfoot administration.
New Report Grades Chicago Hospitals on Patient Safety
May 15, 2019 | Nicole Cardos
How safe are Chicago hospitals? A new report says some of them are not making the grade when it comes to patient safety and preventable death.
Could New $1,000 State Tax Drive Electric Car Owners Out of Illinois?
May 14, 2019 | Nicole Cardos
State Sen. Martin Sandoval’s legislation would hike the electric vehicle registration fees from $17.50 to $1,000. It would also include tax and fee increases on gas, license plates and driver’s licenses.
‘World’s Fastest Man’ Remembers Cyclist Marshall ‘Major’ Taylor
May 13, 2019 | Nicole Cardos
At a time of Jim Crow laws, how did a black man compete to become the fastest athlete of his time? A new book by Michael Kranish tells the story a trailblazing cyclist and his connection to Chicago.
Single Mother of 3 Successful Children Embraces ‘Power of Presence’
May 9, 2019 | Nicole Cardos
How to raise children to be successful adults? That’s the million-dollar question for every parent. A new book by Joy Thomas Moore has some suggestions.
Emanuel Supports Retirement Income Tax, But is it Too Taxing on Seniors?
May 9, 2019 | Nicole Cardos
Outgoing Mayor Rahm Emanuel is the latest supporter of a retirement income tax. A look at the potential impact on Illinois, Chicago – and seniors.
Former Ambassador Says US-Canada Relationship in Trouble
May 8, 2019 | Nicole Cardos
Canada is America’s most trusted ally, but that relationship is at risk. In their new book “The Art of Diplomacy,” a former U.S. ambassador to Canada and his wife explain.
South Side Home Movie Project Aims to Fill in Historical Gaps
May 8, 2019 | Nicole Cardos
A South Side native watches her long-forgotten home movies for the first time in 35 years. What was on them – and how the viewing was made possible.
Report Projects Grim Future for Social Security, Medicare
Apr 30, 2019 | Nicole Cardos
If you’re expecting to receive Social Security benefits, brace yourself. Costs for Social Security are projected to exceed the program’s income next year, which means beneficiaries may not get all that’s been promised to them.
MIT Economists Argue for Increased Public Investment to ‘Jump-Start’ America
Apr 29, 2019 | Nicole Cardos
In their new book, a pair of MIT economists say that if the government doesn’t start investing more in research and development, America’s future growth will be in jeopardy. Co-author Simon Johnson makes the case.
Proposal to Wipe Out Student Loan Debt Ignites Conversation
Apr 25, 2019 | Nicole Cardos
What began as a proposal by a presidential candidate has since turned into a heated debate over managing the nation's trillion dollar student debt burden.