Stories by Meredith Francis

A new POV documentary Let the Little Light Shine shows the battle to save the National Teachers Academy from being transitioned into a new high school as the South Loop neighborhood grows and changes. Kevin Shaw, the film's director and producer, discusses how issues like race, class, and gentrification emerge from the story in which average citizens become activists in their community. 

Take a look back at a Marshall Field's Christmas window display from 1943, and discover the history of the displays. 

The holidays have arrived in Chicago. We break down a handful of Chicago holiday events by light shows, activities, and Christmas markets.

Thanksgiving is almost here. We've compiled a list of recipes that could make a great addition to your Thanksgiving table. 

Executive editor Elle Simone Scott of America's Test Kitchen recently visited WTTW for a demonstration on how to elevate boards. She discusses the new cookbook and offers tips on how to make charceuterie, crudites, and other creative boards for your next gathering—or even just for a family dinner.

On November 7, 1837, an abolitionist named Elijah Parish Lovejoy was killed by a pro-slavery mob in Alton, Illinois.

Are You Caught Up With October’s Chicago Headlines? Take Our October News Quiz.

An eerie sculpture near the grave of an early Chicago settler at Graceland Cemetery comes with a spooky legend. 

Though the warm, sunny days of Chicago’s festival season are behind us, there is still foodie fun to be had as the temperatures drop this winter. We’ve compiled a list of food events that we’ll update as winter goes on.

TikTok, Boom, which premieres on WTTW and PBS as part of Independent Lens on October 24, explores some of the controversy surrounding the popular social media app, including privacy issues, mental health ramifications, and lack of transparency around content moderation.

Heifa Odeh, creator of the food blog Fufu's Kitchen, has a new cookbook out called Dine in Palestine, which has traditional dishes as well as Palestinian-inspired recipes with creative twists. She shares her story and her recipe for flafleh mahshi bil burghol, or bulgur stuffed peppers. 

Ahead of this weekend's Chicago Marathon, take a brief look at the history of long-distance running in Chicago, including the story of how a swing bridge interrupted the very first marathon in the city. 

Did you keep up with the headlines? Take our September News Quiz.

Autumn is here. Celebrate with festivals featuring apples, beer, cider, wine, and more, all coming to the Chicago area in October as the weather turns cool along with the leaves changing color. 

A program called Pilot Light brings food education into the classroom. But it's about more than nutrition or cooking lessons. One Chicago Public School teacher shares her experience with using food as a dynamic teaching tool.