July 22, 2021 - Full Show
The country’s top law enforcement officer visits Chicago. A live report from Bronzeville. How a program to keep drug users out of jail is expanding. And translating brainwaves into text.
July 21, 2021 - Full Show
A historic agreement on civilian oversight of the Chicago Police Department — our Spotlight Politics team weighs in. The new chief who investigates police misconduct. Colleges prepare to reopen.
Lollapalooza Will Go on Despite Rising COVID-19 Cases
The massive music festival that routinely attracts more than 100,000 people per day to its stages starts next week as the delta variant drives a rise in COVID-19 cases. Should the show go on? A local music critic and an infectious disease doctor share their thoughts.
How Universities Are Preparing for Another School Year Amid COVID-19
What will the fall semester look like on college campuses? We discuss reopening plans with the leaders of three area universities.
COPA’s Interim Leader Looks Forward to Civilian Oversight Board
The Chicago City Council has approved a measure to create a board of civilians to oversee the Chicago Police Department, the police board and the Civilian Office of Police Accountability. Andrea Kersten, the interim chief administrator of COPA, shares her thoughts.
City Council Approves Elected Board to Oversee Chicago Police with 36-13 Vote
With just two votes to spare after a contentious debate of nearly two hours, the Chicago City Council voted 36-13 to create an elected board of Chicago residents to oversee the Chicago Police Department, enacting the most far-reaching police reform ordinance in the country.
It’s National Moth Week, And Boy Do These Underappreciated Creatures Deserve the Spotlight
They are often thought of as a nondescript bugs — or even pests — and are misunderstood in large part because of their nocturnal behavior. But moths are excellent pollinators and play a key role in the food web. Here’s what else you should know about moths’ incredible diversity.
Chicago Painter Captures Beauty in Gritty Parts of the City
The tradition of artists painting outdoors brings to mind pretty landscapes of lakes and gardens. We meet a Chicago artist who paints on location and finds beauty in unexpected places.
Survey Finds $2B in Great Lakes, St. Lawrence Coastline Repairs in Coming Years
Coastal repairs and climate change mitigation are a huge concern for cities around the Great Lakes region. The group behind a new survey calls on the American and Canadian governments to fund local efforts to address these issues.
Study: Diaphragm Damage in COVID-19 Survivors Can Lead to Long-Term Symptoms
Many survivors of COVID-19 experience long-term symptoms including shortness of breath and fatigue. A new study finds damage to the lungs may not be the only cause.
What to Know About DACA Being Ruled Illegal
A federal judge in Texas on Friday ruled that the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals program is unlawful. For now, however, those currently in the DACA program will be allowed to stay in it. Here’s a breakdown of what the decision means.
Big Infrastructure Bill in Peril as GOP Threatens Filibuster
The bipartisan infrastructure deal senators brokered with President Joe Biden is hanging precariously ahead of a crucial Wednesday test vote as senators struggle over how to pay for nearly $1 trillion in public works spending.
Governor Pritzker Pitches Free College, Expanded Child Care in Reelection Push
The governor launched his reelection campaign Monday, touting his leadership of the state through the COVID-19 pandemic. But Republican opponents used the occasion to bash what they have called a “disastrous” tenure.
July 20, 2021 - Full Show
One-on-one with Gov. Pritzker as he plans his reelection bid. Congress members on whether an infrastructure deal is near. New research on the impact of COVID-19. And Chicago art in unlikely places.
Aldermen Optimistic Deal to Create Elected Board to Oversee Chicago Police Will Be OK’d
A proposal to create an elected board of Chicagoans to oversee the Chicago Police Department is likely to pass easily, now that it has the backing of a coalition of community groups and Mayor Lori Lightfoot, several aldermen told “Chicago Tonight” on Monday.