We begin our series of reports on ten great threats to the Great Lakes region with an exploration of how waterways let in invasive species, and we learn about an invasive species threatening to cross into Illinois. Then, we learn how the modern coyote is becoming increasingly urbanized. And artist Peggy MacNamara tells us how she marries art and entomology.

Plus, Eight Forty-Eight’s contributor Cara Jepsen contemplates her ways, and Jonathan Miller talks with director Alicia Scherson about her new film, Play. Also, we hear about the antics of the improv game show comedy troop, Don’t Spit the Water. And John Duggan of Time Out Chicago gives us his picks for the best DJs in Chicago, and we profile the Chicago musician Colby Beserra.