Illinois’ Senate president unexpectedly announces his retirement. Mayor Lori Lightfoot comes up empty on a Chicago casino redo. A war of words with Uber. And the Bears prepare for a prime-time matchup with the LA Rams.

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The Chicago teachers strike heads into its second weekend. Will classes resume Monday? Mayor Lori Lightfoot wants help from Springfield to close a budget gap. And the Cubs go back to the future with their new manager.

A judge rules Sterigenics can reopen. The mayor hears "no new property taxes" at her first budget town hall meeting. Elected officials spar over city violence. And the Bears blow the 100th season opener.

The Supreme Court deals a major blow to public sector unions. Chicago Public Schools launches a new office to handle sexual abuse allegations. And the Cubs struggle on the road.

Is Oprah serious about a run for the White House? Will Garry McCarthy run for mayor? Karen Lewis laughs at a draft of her obit. And the Bears have a new head coach.  

Gov. Bruce Rauner launches his re-election bid. Cook County Board President Toni Preckwinkle demands 10-percent cuts. And in Springfield, a “bump stock” bill is defeated and sexual harassment allegations emerge. 

No budget for a third consecutive year. J.B. Pritzker caught on FBI tapes seeking a political appointment. And will Tiger Woods’ DUI derail his Chicago golf course plans? These stories and more with Joel Weisman and guests.

United Airlines faces international scorn for dragging a passenger off a plane. Chicago cops oust their union president. Gov. Bruce Rauner goes on a political tour. And the Cubs raise the championship banner.

Gov. Rauner wants reforms in exchange for tax hikes. CPS sues the state over discrimination. Chicago violence takes center stage again. And players report to spring training. Those stories and more with Joel Weisman and guests.

President Trump calls Chicago "totally out of control." Mayor Rahm Emanuel says enough talk, send in federal resources. Gov. Rauner calls for a budget with cuts, revenues and reforms as the state’s credit rating takes another hit. These stories and more with Joel Weisman and guests. 

Hate crime charges after a disabled man is attacked. The feds plan to release a report on Chicago police. Rauner is skipping Donald Trump’s inauguration. And the Bears won’t commit to Jay Cutler. These stories and more with Joel Weisman and guests.

Donald Trump refuses to say he’ll concede the election as Hillary Clinton climbs in national polls. Chicago shootings continue at a record pace. And the Cubs take game five of the NLCS. These stories and more with Joel Weisman and guests.

Some neighborhood high schools in poorer areas of Chicago are struggling to survive. We look at how the city's school-choice system is playing a role. 

From Chicago's top spot in fatal police-involved shootings to a successful road trip for the White Sox, Joel Weisman and his panel have your week in review.

Lollapalooza

The Conversation Continues Online

Joel Weisman and his panel of journalists debate the merits of Lollapalooza, and the impact of the Blackhawks' new training facility coming to the West Side. 

Joel Weisman and local journalists discuss this week’s top headlines in politics, sports, and business.