New reports show that Earth’s surface temperature last year was its highest since modern temperature record keeping began in 1880. The global record was also broken in 2014, although 2015 saw dramatic increases by comparison.

The race for Mayor of Chicago will go on for another six weeks as Mayor Rahm Emanuel failed to secure a majority of votes needed to avoid a runoff.

The 87th Academy Awards are on Sunday and there is substantial buzz over who will win Best Picture. From the innovative film Birdman starring Michael Keaton to Richard Linklater's work Boyhood that spanned 12 years, the competition is stiff. Who made the cut and who got snubbed? Chicago film critics Jeanne Kaplan and Ray Pride join us to discuss the year's best films.

A confirmed case of measles is reported in suburban Cook County. We have the details on what you need to know about preventing an outbreak.

After a sixth straight year of gains for U.S. stocks, we take a look at the prospects for 2015. How will low oil prices and a likely rate hike by the Federal Reserve impact the investing environment?

The Dow surges through 18,000, as the economy grows at its fastest pace in more than a decade.

City of Chicago property taxes will not be going up next year, but a host of other fines and fees will as part of Mayor Rahm Emanuel's 2015 budget. City Council approved the budget today by a 46-4 vote.

Aldermen on City Budget, Mayor’s Race, More

We share what you had to say about our discussion of Mayor Rahm Emanuel's proposed 2015 budget with Chicago aldermen.

Cook County Board President Toni Preckwinkle said she will not run for Mayor of Chicago in 2015. 

Earlier this month Chicago Public Schools unveiled its budget for 2015. We analyze the district’s $5.7 billion budget.

One day after telling Springfield legislators they face a stark choice between making the “temporary” income tax hikes permanent or slashing spending on education and social services, Gov. Pat Quinn joins us to discuss the tough choices facing the state, and how he plans to defeat Republican gubernatorial candidate Bruce Rauner in the November election. Watch Quinn's budget address, view graphics of his budget breakdown, and read an article about how the state budget would be impacted if the income tax increase were allowed to expire as scheduled in 2015.

Chicago was recently named as the host city for the 27th edition of the 2015 World Triathlon Grand Final. Elizabeth Brackett has won four World Championship titles and placed second in this year’s London World Championships. Watch a web extra video about what Chicago can expect when it hosts the World Championships in 2015.