Author: WBEZ Chicago

Solidarity. Agency. Creativity. Those are just some of the words that describe Chicago’s disability arts scene. It’s Disability Pride Month, which honors the history and experiences of disability communities. But disabled artists are pushing the city’s creative scene forward on a year-round basis. Reset sat down with painter Riva Lehrer, media artist Andy Slater, and dancer Robby Lee Williams. For a full archive of Reset interviews, head over to wbez.org/reset.

One day, you or a loved one will likely need long-term care. Whether it’s living in a nursing home or receiving care from family members, it can be difficult to know what’s the best and most affordable option. And with the rising cost of long-term care, it’s becoming increasingly inaccessible for families across the country. Reset hears caregivers’ stories and learns about the challenges of navigating the long-term care system. For a full archive of Reset interviews, head over to wbez.org/reset.

The National Association of Black Journalists’ annual convention kicks off tomorrow on Michigan Avenue. Every presidential election year, the NABJ extends an invite to both candidates to attend the convention. Trump took them up on the offer just last night, sparking a firestorm among some Black journalists and NABJ members on social media. Reset sits down with two Black journalists in Chicago to unpack the news. For a full archive of Reset interviews, head over to wbez.org/reset.

The Board of Education has approved Chicago Public Schools’ proposed $9.9 billion dollar budget for the 2024-2025 school year, following pressure from the Chicago Teachers Union, Mayor Brandon Johnson, and even some board members. The budget excludes funding for upcoming union contracts, and Board of Education president Jinanan Shi called it “unfinished.” Reset learns what the budget is going to cover, and how it will impact CPS students and staff. For a full archive of Reset interviews, head over to wbez.org/reset.

Athletes who caught the public eye but didn’t get a chance to compete in 2020, including gymnast Simone Biles and runner Sha-Carri Richardson, will do so this year. Several sports, including surfing, rock climbing and skateboarding will return to the Paris games for the second time and breakdancing makes its debut. Reset gets insight into who, and what, to watch. For a full archive of Reset interviews, head over to wbez.org/reset.

You can’t talk about Chicago blues without talking about Muddy Waters. His talent shaped the genre, and fostered a community of legends like John Lee Hooker, BB King and Chuck Berry. So for the latest in our "What's That Building?" series, architecture sleuth Dennis Rodkin takes us to Mojo Museum, the 19th century two-flat in Kenwood that was Muddy Waters' longtime home and rehearsal space. The sweet sounds of blues still ring throughout the area today during monthly backyard concerts. And we’ll hear from the family member keeping the blues great’s memory alive.

Megan Hammond came to Chicago in 2018 to study music at Columbia College. Since then, she’s released her own songs that highlight her powerful vocals, artful lyricism and genre-bending range. Now, she’ll be taking the stage at Lollapalooza as a part of the Chicago Made Music Showcase on Sunday, Aug. 4. Reset sits down with the singer to hear how she became the artist and musician she is today. For a full archive of Reset interviews, head over to wbez.org/reset.

Illinois Democrats endorse Kamala Harris in her presidential bid. Plus, body-cam footage of a fatal police shooting in Springfield renews calls for police reform. Reset breaks down those stories and more in the Weekly News Recap. Our panel this week: Brandon Pope, reporter and anchor for CW 26; Leigh Giangreco, freelance journalist; and Jake Sheridan, City Hall reporter for Chicago Tribune. For a full archive of Reset interviews, head over to wbez.org/reset.

From jade pagodas and incense burners to mosaics, cameos and even dioramas, treasures abound in this suburban museum. Reset learns why this museum is a real hidden gem. For a full archive of Reset interviews, head over to wbez.org/reset.

Charcuterie plates and wine are a classic cocktail hour snack. But 70% of the world is lactose intolerant, with more people limiting dairy because of environmental concerns. Luckily, there are tasty vegan cheese options that you can bring to your next party, and yes, you can still pair them with wine! Reset learns how the art of making vegan cheese has improved over the years, and best practices for pairing wine and dairy free cheese. For a full archive of Reset interviews, head over to wbez.org/reset.