Rick Pearson holds a special round-table featuring Bob Secter of Crain’s; Brian Bernardoni, founder of Aurelius Public Affairs; Eric Elk, government relations director for HNTB; and Amanda Vinicky, WTTW Ch.-11 correspondent. The crew take time to reflect on the current state of the nation; take a look at what’s ahead in this politically surreal, pandemic year of 2020; and more.

Rick Pearson speaks with Former Baltimore Police Official and current President of Strategia Consulting, Eric Kowalczyk about his tenure at the Baltimore PD, as it coincided with the Freddie Gray Riots in 2015. Eric’s also the author of “Politics of Crisis: An Insiders Perspective to Prevent Public Policy Disasters,” and shares information about the book, the issues of community policing and demands for reforms.

Then, Democratic State Rep. Ann Williams joins the show to discuss a legislative response to calls for police reform and reinvestment in communities hit by looting. Ann also talks about the Clean Energy Jobs Act and what it could mean in terms of new employment opportunities in a post-COVID-19 environment.

Lastly, Rick talks to David Yepsen, host of “Iowa Press” and former Des Moines Register National Political Writer, about the nation’s political environment.

Rick speaks with Lissa Druss, Founder and CEO of Strategia Consulting, about the Our American Voice civics education program for students. Lissa highlights the creativity teachers are using in order to get their students involved; and also touches on the positive impact the program is having on participants.

Next, Rick is joined by Illinois Comptroller Susana Mendoza to discuss efforts to manage the state’s books during a time of deeply falling state revenue due to the coronavirus.

Then, Democratic State Rep. and chairman of the powerful House Executive Committee, Emanuel “Chris” Welch, joins the show to discuss the past session and what’s next.

Rick also speaks with Chris Johnson, Head of the new National Association of Theatre Owners of Illinois and CEO of Classic Cinemas about the desire of movie houses to reopen.

Lastly, Mark Maxwell, statehouse correspondent for WCIA-TV Ch. 3 in Champaign and Nexstar stations across the state including WGN, joins the conversation to discuss pandemic politics.

Chris also takes a moment to talk about the protests and expresses his fears that “the rioting will not stop until all officers involved are arrested.”

Susana also takes a moment to discuss the recent protests and injustice that Black and Brown people throughout the country have, and continue, to face.

To learn more about Our American Voice, visit: https://ouramericanvoice.org/

Rick speaks with Illinois Senate Republican leader Bill Brady of Bloomington about the legislature’s special pandemic session and what lawmakers did and didn’t do. Bill expresses the shared disappointment of many legislatures surrounding a lack of thorough discussion when it comes to how to kickstart the state’s economy and re-opening procedures.

Next, Rick is joined by Democratic State Sen. Sara Feigenholtz as she shares her take on the special session and what’s ahead for Illinois. Sara discusses the various precautions everyone took in order to continue safe social distancing procedures; the pride that is resonating from accomplishing so much in the matter of 3 days; and more.

Then, Michael Jacobson, President and CEO of the Illinois Hotel and Lodging Association, joins the conversation to fill us in on the state of hotels in our new pandemic era and how hotel operators have chipped in to help first responders.

Rick also speaks with Michael Carbonargi, Commissioner on the Cook County Board of Review, about what the county is doing in trying to provide some property tax relief for homeowners.

Lastly, Mike Militech, Statehouse Correspondent for Quincy Media, joins Rick for a full review of the legislative session. Both men share their shock of seeing the session conclude in such a short amount of time; touch on the issue of local funding and the impact it’s having on essential workers and first responders; and more.

Rick speaks with Sam Toia, President and CEO of The Illinois Restaurant Association about whether there’s any help from Washington and what will restaurants look like in a re-opened economy. Sam explains the restaurant recovery fund that the association is asking for; details the impact of the grants/loans that was included in the first stimulus package; and more.

Next, Rick is joined by Democratic Rep. and Chair of The Revenue and Finance Committee, Mike Zalewski, as they talk about the legislature reconvening in Springfield on Wednesday. Mike also provides insight into the coronavirus’ effect on putting together a state budget.

Then, Rebecca Shi, Executive Director for The American Business Immigration Coalition, joins the conversation to discuss small businesses, the Payroll Protection Program and the need for people to fill out the federal Census.

Rick also speaks with IL State Treasurer Mike Frerichs about state efforts to help residents and businesses during the economic crisis. He’s also from Champaign and we’ll get his view of how people are dealing with the coronavirus there.

Lastly, Rick converses with Doug Finke, statehouse reporter for the State Journal-Register of Springfield about his take on lawmakers coming back in session and the politics that will be at play when the legislature reconvenes.

Rick speaks with Illinois Farm Bureau President Richard Guebert about the effects of the pandemic on farmers and the state’s important agricultural economy, including the food supply chain. Rich touches on the fragility of the agricultural delivery system, the precautions that need to be in place before being able to have employees get back to a regular work schedule, and more.

Next, Rick is joined by Republican Rep. Tom Demmer of Dixon, Deputy GOP leader in the House, to discuss the issues surrounding the pandemic in rural IL. Tom also talks about the increased intensity of regionalism as all areas of IL are impacted differently and how this effects the plans to reopen the IL economy ordered by Democratic Gov. J.B. Pritzker.

Then, U.S. Republican Rep. Darin LaHood joins the conversation issues surrounding the pandemic in Washington, including the requests for federal aid to the states and what the next relief program could consist of. In addition, Darin expresses the frustrations that he and fellow southern IL residents share when it comes to Gov. J.B. Pritzker’s 28 day phasing plan.

Rick also speaks with Democratic Sen. Andy Manar as he provides his take on the governor’s reopen plans as well as the uncertainty over putting together a state budget. Andy also emphasis the importance of the work of local officials and hopes that state officials can join together in the near future to resolve some of the bigger issues IL faces.

Lastly, Rick converses with Molly Parker, reporter at the Carbondale-based Southern Illinoisan newspaper, about how the pandemic is affecting deep Southern Illinois and regional resentment. Molly talks about the typical day to day, heightened concerns surrounding the economy, the common feelings of being forgotten and left behind, and more.

Rick speaks with Sheila Kennedy, Co-Founder and Executive Director of Top Box Foods, a non-profit provider of affordable food to impoverished areas of Chicago and Lake County. Sheila discusses food supplies, the changes the organization has made in response to COVID-19, and what the future may look like in terms of minimizing food desert areas.

Next, Rick is joined by Riverside Police Chief Tom Weitzel to learn more about about the impact of the pandemic on law enforcement. Tom discusses the additional pressure that officers are facing in terms of enforcing the various executive orders as a result of the pandemic; issues with speeding as officers are attempting to limit contact with the public; and more.

Then, Michelle Mason, CEO of Association Forum (the association of associations), joins the conversation and shares the pandemic’s effects on a variety of associations that are based in Chicago. Michelle explains the mission of the Association Forum and lists some of the organizations they represent; provides clarification as to what a 501(c) organization is; and stresses the importance of helping all association employees during this time.

Rick also speaks with UIC Economics Professor David Merriman about coronavirus’ impact on state finances. Professor Merriman co-authored a report covering the Fiscal impact COVID-19 is having on IL and shares the findings aren’t as promising as some may have hoped as the state’s budget is taking, and will continue to take, a major hit.

Lastly, Rick converses with NBC-5’s Mary Ann Ahern about the latest news this past week and take a look ahead. Rick and Mary Ann touch on the need for Governor Pritzker to provide more clarification and guidance as to how the state will re-open; the unknown impact this shut down is having on the state budget; and more.

To learn more and/or to volunteer, visit www.topboxfoods.com

847-910-3094

Rick speaks with Cook County Commissioner Bridget Gainer about the county’s efforts to deal with the pandemic. Bridget discusses the uncertainties we all face when it comes to re-opening businesses in the future; the various webinars the county is offering to offer assistance; and more.

Next, Rick is joined by Elliot Richardson, President and Co-founder of the Small Business Advocacy Council to learn more about federal and state efforts to assist the hard-hit small business community. Elliot touches on the optimism that is circulating as more money is being made available specifically for small business owners; the issue that still remains with finding institutions willing to assist, as well as creating a comprehensive strategy when researching and applying to different relief fund programs.

Then, U.S. Rep. Raja Krishnamoorthi joins the conversation to discuss the latest coronavirus relief effort from Congress and the improvements that have been made thus far, in addition to what may be ahead in the next legislative package. He also touches on antibody testing and the uncertainties surrounding the results.

Rick also speaks with Brad Cole, Executive Director of the Illinois Municipal League about the impact of the coronavirus on local city and town revenues. Brad explains the disparities the virus is highlighting throughout the state; the need to see direct unrestricted funding to municipalities for several reasons; and more.

Lastly, Rick converses with Amanda Vinicky, correspondent, WTTW-Ch. 11 to unpack the week that was and what may lie ahead. Amanda and Rick go over how people are handling the stay-at-home order, especially with fatigue beginning to settle in,; the scrutiny Chicago is currently under as there continues to be reports of large gatherings; and what will the new “normal” looks like past the summer months.

As we await the President’s daily White House Coronavirus Task Force briefing, Rick Pearson and Roger Badesch take a look where things stand for the city and the top news stories. Rick and Roger talk about the uncertainties that remain, the stay-at-home order, and much more.

Rick Pearson speaks with Rob Karr, President and CEO of the Illinois Retail Merchants Association to discuss the impact COVID-19 has had on retailers and restaurants. Rob highlights the difficulties that are ahead when the time comes to re-open all businesses; the additional responsibilities all consumers must take on in terms of continuing to practice safety procedures once the stay-at-home order is lifted; and more.

Then, Rick talks to Mark Denzler, President and CEO of the Illinois Manufacturers’ Association about the effects COVID-19 is having on the business world. Mark discusses the changes various manufacturing companies have made in order to increase their production rate of essential products and/or re-purposing their resources to create essential items during this time.

Mark also touches on the steps the government is taking in order to help business owners during this time; the power of technology during this time with allowing employees to work from home; and the challenges students will face trying to enter the workforce.

If you’re a union worker anywhere in the city and you think your employer isn’t following CDC guidelines, Bob advises you to call your union and tell them.

Rick Pearson speaks with Bob Reiter, President of the Chicago Federation of Labor, about essential employees and their safety during this time. Aside from those working in the medical field, Bob emphasizes the importance of ensuring everyone working during this time is taking extra precautions and that they’re receiving proper support from their employers as well.

Then, Rick talks to Dan Montgomery, President of the Illinois Federation of Teachers, about the difficulties with e-learning as everyone doesn’t have equal access to wireless internet, proper technology, etc. Dan also touches on the importance of human connection and interaction when it comes to schooling and character building, what teachers are doing to keep a level of personal-ism in their lesson plans, and much more.

Rick Pearson is joined by Bob Secter, editor at Crain’s Forum, and lobbyist Brian Bernardoni for a roundtable on the March 17th primary results. The men discuss the controversial question as to whether the primary should’ve been held or moved to a later date, what lies ahead for contests in November, and much more.

The Sunday Spin now airs Sundays from 5p-7p

Rick Pearson takes on our weekly spin through politics and touches on Super Tuesday, a resurgent Joe Biden, and more.

Then, Rick is joined by Rush Darwish, one of the three candidates competing in the Southwest Side and Suburban 3rd Congressional District Democratic primary. He talks about his background and candidacy and shares what he believes is the ideology of the congressional district.

Rick Pearson is joined by Rebecca Shi, Executive Director of American Business Immigration Coalition, on immigration issues. With immigration continuously at the forefront of news headlines, Rebecca gives her take on why reaching a comprehensive agreement on immigration is important to the business economy.

Then, Rick speaks with Illinois House Republican leader Bill Brady. Bill shares his take on J.B. Pritzker’s proposed budget and the lack of support he believes Pritzker will receive on the tax increase; and emphasizes the need to focus on job creation efforts for the state.

The Sunday Spin now airs Sundays from 5p-7p

Rick Pearson takes us through his weekly spin on politics for a review of the week and a look ahead at what’s to come. We take a look at the commentary made by primary candidates in the latest debate, along side President Trump’s commentary on candidates as well. Rick also talks with Illinois House Republican leader Jim Durkin for the last half-hour.

The Sunday Spin now airs Sundays from 5p-7p

To learn more about the event you can search for Melissa Conyears-Ervin or go to Facebook and type  @Chitreasurer to find Melissa’s page and more information on this event as well as future events.

Rick Pearson hosts the show with his annual Black History Month theme, highlighting historic black figures who have contributed and shaped our nation today.

Rick is joined by Chicago city treasurer, Melissa Conyears-Ervin, to discuss the upcoming February 29 event, ‘Dollars and Sen$e,’ a  town hall on financial education  taking place in Albany Park.

Todd Mayfield, the son of  music icon Curtis Mayfield, comes in studio to discuss his father’s life and legacy. He also highlights the 2016 self-written novel ‘Traveling Soul: The Life of Curtis Mayfield’ honoring his father.  

Rick is also joined by Martha Jo Black, the daughter of late MLB pitcher Joe Black, and the author of “Joe Black: More than a Dodger.” Call in guest for the conversation is  Bria Anderson, wife of White Sox star shortstop Tim Anderson, discussing the Anderson’s League of Leaders charity.

Rick Pearson takes us through his weekly spin on politics for a review of the week and a look ahead at what’s to come. Rick covers several stories including the Democratic debate in Des Moines, House Speaker Nancy Pelosi and the impeachment trial, and more.

The Sunday Spin now airs Sundays from 5p-7p

Rick Pearson speaks with Attorney Michael Dorf and Mayor of Skokie, George Van Dusen, as they’re the authors of the the late veteran Congressman Sid Yates biography, “Clear It with Sid!”.  Michael and George talk about Sid’s amazing track record, the evolution of the Country that the book details, and some of the most interesting aspects they discovered while conducting their research.

Next, Rick is joined by Mae Whiteside, chairwoman of Flourish PAC, and former Democratic state Rep. and lieutenant governor candidate Litesa Wallace of Rockford, on efforts to encourage more diversity in campaigns for public office. Mae and Litesa explain what Flourish PAC is; stress the importance of recruiting women of color to run for office; and the IL Black Campaign Academy and their work.

Then, Rick talks to Tribune reporter Ray Long on the Mike Madigan related federal investigations. Ray breaks down some of his latest stories including ComEd, state and local politicians, and much more.

*The Sunday Spin will now air Sundays from 5p-7p

Rick Pearson speaks with State Sen. Cristina Castro of Elgin and State Rep. Ann Williams of Chicago about the proposed Clean Energy Jobs Act—an effort to make Illinois more green with its energy development while also promoting job growth. Cristina and Ann provide a detailed overview of the bill, the long term benefits of “going green”, and more.

Then, Rick is joined by Jason DeSanto, Senior Lecturer at Northwestern’s Pritzker School of Law, for an hour-long discussion about the House Democratic-led impeachment inquiry hearings as well as the latest Democratic presidential debate. Jason and Rick review snippets from both the latest debate and the impeachment inquiry hearings; discuss interesting results from various public polls regarding President Trump; and which candidates are dominating the Presidential race thus far.

Rick Pearson speaks with Senate Republican leader Bill Brady of Bloomington about the final acts of the fall veto session in Springfield and what did, and didn’t, happen. Bill talks about IL Senate President John Cullerton’s retirement announcement; the successful move to consolidate pension funds for first responders; the failure of having anything concrete move forward in the way of banning vaping; and more.  

Next, Rick is joined by Michael Golden, President of Golden Mean Strategies, to get his thoughts on the public impeachment inquiry. Michael discusses the strategies being engaged on each side, the difficulties of forming a strategy with/for Trump due to his impulsive actions, and much more.

Then, Rick talks to Democratic State Rep. Sara Feigenholtz of Chicago about the accomplishments in the veto session as well as the issues that were left unresolved. Sara touches on the proposed casino bill and her optimism in getting it passed, the graduated real estate transfer tax issue, and the continuous goal to not raise property taxes.

Rick Pearson is joined by Democratic State Rep. Bob Rita to discuss issues surrounding the closure of Blue Island’s MetroSouth Medical Center. Bob explains the impact that this is having on the South Side as over 1,000 jobs will be lost; stresses residents’ growing concerns of extensive travel times to neighboring ER rooms; and questions what the true functionality of the Health Facilities Planning Board is.

Next, Rick speaks with Democratic State Sen. Rob Martwick about the closing of the fall veto session and ethics issues in Springfield. Rob touches on the Federal investigations involving several of his colleagues and the frustrations that members of the legislature share as it erodes distrust from IL residents, as well as the process of filling a vacant seat. Rob and Rick also talk about Chicago’s lack of an Elected School Board, the proposed graduated real estate transfer tax, and more.

Then, Rick talks to Tribune reporter Bill Ruthhart about some of his recent stories as he covers the 2020 Presidential Race. Bill touches on Elizabeth Warren’s campaign trail and signature policies; Pete Buttigieg‘s campaign and his place as the major alternative to Joe Biden; and he also shares who he believes is the established tier of Presidential candidates.

Rick Pearson is joined by Illinois House deputy GOP leader Tom Demmer of Dixon to discuss ethics reforms that the Republicans are proposing, especially after these Federal investigations involving several state lawmakers in Springfield. Tom expresses his thoughts on the current state of Springfield in terms of the investigations currently in process; the idea of having a full time legislature paid by the state; and explains the legislation that he introduced.

Next, Rick speaks with Pat Brady of Next Generation Strategies about President Trump’s visit to Chicago and the launch of the formal impeachment inquiry by House Democrats. Pat and Rick take a look at various comments President Trump made during the International Association of Chiefs of Police Annual Conference and Exposition in Chicago; explore a new poll from the Wall Street Journal pertaining to impeaching Trump; and much more.

Then, Rick talks to Josh Sharp, Executive Vice President of the Illinois Petroleum Marketers Association/IL Association of Convenient Stores, about efforts in Springfield to ban flavored tobacco and vaping products. Josh explains the legislation that was introduced during the veto session that looks to ban all flavored tobacco products; the questions surrounding banning menthol; and concerns pertaining to the gas tax increase and IL residents traveling to surrounding states to purchase tobacco.

Rick Pearson is joined by Democratic State Rep. and Chairman of the House Executive Committee Emanuel “Chris” Welch, to discuss on the general assembly fall veto session and the NCAA legislation he hopes to get passed. Chris explains what the legislation entails; the importance of allowing student athletes to be able to generate profits for themselves using their own likeness, especially since colleges and universities have always profited off of the students; and how this bill will help IL stay competitive with California.

Next, Rick speaks with Gov. J.B. Pritzker ahead of the start of the fall veto session and various issues that he’ll have to look over throughout it. Gov Pritzker touches on Mayor Lightfoot’s Real Estate Transfer Tax; the issue of first responder pension funds; his thoughts and optimism pertaining to Chris Welch’s proposed NCAA legislation; actions we may see being taken to combat the issue of vaping; and much more.

Then, Rick welcomes Illinois House Republican leader Jim Durkin of Western Springs into the studio, to discuss a number of issues ahead of the fall veto session. Jim shares his thoughts on the consolidation of pension funds, vaping, and more. He also discusses where things stand with the proposed Insulin Rate Cap.

Rick Pearson speaks with Melissa Conyears-Ervin, Chicago City Treasurer, about her efforts to help drive economic improvement outside throughout the city – not just for the Downtown, Chicago area; the catalyst fund and the purposes that it’s meant to serve; and her upcoming Women’s Small Business Expo.

Then, Rick is joined by Jason DeSanto, Senior lecturer at the Northwestern-Pritzker School of Law, to sort through the “highs and lows” of the Democratic debate, as well as the Democratic policies of the Presidential candidates. They also discuss the House Democrats in terms of their strategy with moving forward with their impeachment inquiry, and more.

The Women’s Small Business Expo will take place November 16th from 9am-3pm at the UIC Dorin Forum. For more details, click HERE!

Rick Pearson welcomes Kevin Fitzpatrick, incoming CEO and President of Alfred Benesch Co., into the studio. Kevin is apart of the American Council of Engineering Companies and he shares what the council is, as well as, what to expect during the year’s National Engineering Conference being held in Chicago.  Kevin also discusses the infrastructure bill and the importance its efficiency; the status of student population pursuing careers in the engineering field; and much more.

Next, Rick speaks with Chicago Tribune reporter Hal Dardick on city pension investments. Hal and Juan Perez Jr. took an in-depth look into the city pension deficit and what steps were taken in an attempt to put us on a “path to solvency”. Hal explains the various taxes and fees former Mayor Rahm Emmanuel set in place and the results as to where pension funds currently stand.

Then, Rick is joined by Author, Activist, and Democratic Presidential Candidate Marianne Williamson as she shares insight into her campaign and how she sees a path to victory in the large diverse field of contenders. Marianne also discusses the move to impeach Donald Trump; and shares her views on Syria and the decision to withdraw U.S. Military from the area.

To read the full write-up by Hal and Juan, click HERE!

Rick Pearson welcomes Naperville Mayor Steve Chirico, President of DuPage Mayors and Managers Conference, into the studio to explain what the conference is and what they aim to do. Steve also shares his thoughts on legislature in Springfield; the hotel/motel tax; and other various municipal issues.

Next, Rick speaks with Willowbrook Mayor Frank Trilla about the village’s success to get the controversial firm, Sterigenics, to shut down it’s sterilization operation. Frank explains how everything unfolded and how the Stop Sterigenics Movement came about; the vital role of the task force; and much more.

Then, Rick is joined by Dorothy Miaso, Executive Director of the Literacy Volunteers of Illinois, and board member Reggie Dumas, as they talk about the work of the organization and their goal to break stigmas surrounding literacy. They also share information about their programming and upcoming events including the Annual Scrabble For Literacy Challenge and Casino Night.