Stories by Nicole Cardos

Illinois Officials Urge Preparedness Following California Earthquakes

Ron Mikulaco, left, and his nephew, Brad Fernandez, examine a crack on Highway 178 caused by an earthquake Saturday, July 6, 2019, outside of Ridgecrest, California. (AP Photo / Marcio Jose Sanchez)

In the aftermath of two major earthquakes that shook southern California last week, officials in Illinois are urging residents to prepare themselves and their homes in the event of a similar incident.

Police Release Hundreds of Files From Smollett Investigation

A still image from video footage released by Chicago police Monday, June	24, 2019 shows the “Empire” actor wearing a thin white rope wrapped around his neck that he told detectives was a noose.

Chicago police on Monday released hundreds of files from the investigation into Jussie Smollett’s claim he was attacked by two men, including releasing video footage for the first time of the “Empire” actor wearing a thin white rope wrapped around his neck.

Legislative Leaders in the Dark on Gaming Bill Specifics

Recently passed legislation to expand gambling in Illinois is so massive, not many people know everything that’s in it. That includes at least two of the state’s legislative leaders who helped negotiate the bill.

Chicago’s Big-Time Business Club Calls for State Tax Increase

(Éovart Caçeir at English Wikipedia)

A new report from the Civic Committee of the Commercial Club of Chicago recommends a 1-percent increase in the state income tax. 

Rick Bayless, Sarah Grueneberg Win Awards at ‘Oscars’ of Food Industry

Rick Bayless, center, poses with his wife and business partner, Deann, and Dave Hardie, director of San Pellegrino. (Credit: Huge Galdones)

The who’s who in American cuisine descended on Chicago’s Lyric Opera House for the 2017 James Beard Awards.

Rauner Gives Illinois a Grade A

(Éovart Caçeir at English Wikipedia)

Gov. Bruce Rauner sits down with Chicago Tonight correspondent Amanda Vinicky to discuss his agenda for public schools, the state budget crisis and why he drops the “g” when he speaks.

Teachers Claim CPS ‘Harassing’ Members Over Sick Leave

Some Chicago teachers say CPS is looking into whether they are skipping school.

Global Affairs Take Center Stage as Trump Welcomes Chinese President

Some major policy decisions for the Trump administration as global events heat up.

Chicago Flag Turns 100

(Daniel Huizinga / Flickr)

The mighty Chicago flag gets a special shout-out in City Council just in time for its 100th birthday. We mark Chicago Flag Day by exploring its evolving design, history and popularity.

Ameya Pawar: ‘More Money Doesn’t Always Mean You Win’

The Chicago alderman joins host Eddie Arruza to discuss his run for Illinois governor.