Gapers Block : Merge : March 2007

Il Ritorno d'Uliss in Patria
The final installment of the Chicago Opera Theater's Claudio Monteverdi series, The Return of Ulysses, is earning strong reviews, including accolades for Rafael Viñoly's minimal set design. There are three performances remaining, so get hoppin'.
David on Sat March 31 2007 Music/Clubs

Block 37 on Fire
Hungry Mag's Michael Nagrant alerted us that there's smoke rising from the Block 37 construction site. He sent in a photo; there's nothing showing up on the live webcam, although it doesn't show the area Michael photographed. We'll keep you posted if/as we learn more. UPDATE: More photos on Chicago Carless, and here's a story in the Trib.
Andrew on Sat March 31 2007 In the News

Hey, Smartypants
If you want to be a Mensa member or just hang out with them, Chicago Area Mensa is where it's at. Learn about the official Mensa test, get recipes (yeah, recipes for food), and find brainteasers.
Shylo on Fri March 30 2007 Found on the Web

Neighborhood Focus
The Reader kicked off a new project focusing its attention on the city one neighborhood at a time. First up is Uptown. It seems to be the idea of the moment; we've been contemplating doing something similar, and YoChicago has been devoting days to specific neighborhood lately: today is Ravenswood Manor Day.
Andrew on Fri March 30 2007 City Life/Cultural

Your Name in Lights
Good fun for a Friday: the Chicago Theater marquee generator. UPDATE: Dubi Kaufmann, the site's owner, has been asked by the theater's owner to take down the image.
Andrew on Fri March 30 2007 Found on the Web

Oh, Yeah, That's the One
It's always a pleasure to see a news organization pick just the right stock image for a Downers Grove mob hit story.
David on Fri March 30 2007 Found on the Web

How to Get from Chicago to London
As explained by Google Maps. Step 20 is a doozy.
Andrew on Fri March 30 2007 Found on the Web

Neko in Town
They might be a distant second, but if you didn't manage to get tickets to see Chicago's adopted daughter Neko Case this week, photos and videos of the shows are popping up on the web.
Vince Jose on Thu March 29 2007 Found on the Web

Coffee Time
Including a discussion with roasters from Metropolis and Intelligentsia, a perfect moniker for Starbucks and a list of quality coffee shops around town, the article about coffee in this week's Reader is required material for us go juice addicts.
Vince Jose on Thu March 29 2007 Eating/Drinking

We're #3 for #1
Chalk up another strong showing for Chicago -- this time in the category of Icky and/or Clever Names for Local Makers of Portable Toilets. According to a list compiled by New York Magazine, of the top twenty names in the industry, nationwide, Chicago is home to three: LepreCAN (#12), Oui Oui Enterprises (#5) and UrinBiz.com (#3). New Orleans claims the top spot with... Doodie Calls.
Sandy on Thu March 29 2007 Found on the Web

Cricket: More Than Just Wearing All White (Apparently)
With the 2007 Cricket World Cup currently taking place in the Caribbean and the Clue-esque intrigue surrounding the murder of Pakistan coach Bob Woolmer, cricket has been getting a lot of press lately. If all the cricket noise has inspired you to learn about the game, pull a Jerry Seinfeld American Express commercial ("That was a wicked googly"), or check out a match in-person, GB has you covered. Or, more specifically, is able to guide you to the website of the Greater Chicago Cricket Association.
Zack on Thu March 29 2007 Sports/Recreation

Fan of Foie Gras Fined
Yup, it's official. Hot Doug was on trial, and Hot Doug lost. But, he's only out the minimum fine of $250 for illegally selling foie gras (encased, of course) under a 7-month old City of Chicago ban.
Anne on Thu March 29 2007 Eating/Drinking

GB Around Town
Join Gapers Block editor Andrew Huff (me) and contributor Daniel Tucker (also of AREA) as well as people from Optional Events, the New World Resource Center and Polvo, tonight for a talk about event calendars and listservs at A+D Gallery tonight at 6pm; more info in Slowdown. Also, for those with drinkin' on their mind, we'd love to see you at the Black Rock tomorrow night for our monthly GB Get-Together. We'll be in the back room from 9pm on; see you there!
Andrew on Thu March 29 2007 Gapers

Fawn Over Flora
Did last week's warm weather leave you with a foliage jones? Then you'd better get to Macy's Flower and Garden Show. Located on the first floor of the flagship location, this year's show features species from all over Africa, as well as African art and more. It's open through April 7.
Shylo on Thu March 29 2007 Outdoors/Environment

Our Kind of Town
The Chicago-based MacArthur Foundation today presented eight recipients with the Award for Creative and Effective Institutions, a monetary prize for non-profits that have excelled at their task. Chicago-based Kartemquin Educational Films, producer of the award winning film Hoop Dreams, is at top of the list. My shoulders feel a little bit bigger today.
Vince Jose on Thu March 29 2007 In the News

Transmission Feature: Arbouretum
Don't check the spelling, check the rock in our Thursday feature over at Transmission: Baltimore's Arbouretum. (Then check them out at the Empty Bottle tonight!)
Anne on Thu March 29 2007 Gapers

Chicago Office Gives Gonzales What-For
Seems the meeting in Chicago between Attorney General Gonzales and his team here in the Chicago office was more aggressive than awkward. The New York Times reports that about six Chicago prosecutors "complained that the dismissals had undermined morale and expressed broader grievances about his leadership". Both the local papers got a bit scooped on this detail. The private meeting was the lead headline in the NYT and wasn't even mentioned in the local stories, which focused on the AG bolting out of a press conference prematurely.
DanX on Thu March 29 2007 Politics/Activism

Tilty's Take
Now that our hometown airline, United, isn't so far in the red, it's time for all the execs to take their cut. CEO Glenn Tilton got a cool $23.8 million, CFO Jake Brace got $10.4, COO Pete McDonald got $13.2 and so on. The head of the Association of Flight Attendants said that her stews got $40. Each. For the year. It gets complicated when you consider the contracts each party struck with the company, but man! Tilty's got this round.
Shylo on Thu March 29 2007 Business/Shopping

MegaBus Expands Cheap Midwest Travel
A great reminder of the possibilities of regional travel at an affordable rate, Megabus.com recently announced that starting on April 2 you can go to 5 additional cities in the region. The company known for its sliding scale and often very cheap tickets will now take Chicagoans to and from the cities of Ann Arbor, Mich.; Columbus, Ohio; Kansas City, Mo.; Louisville, Ky. and Pittsburgh. This makes 13 total regional cities accessible via the express bus line, joining the previously serviced cities of Cincinnati, Cleveland, Detroit, Indianapolis, Milwaukee, Minneapolis, St. Louis and Toledo, Ohio.
Daniel on Wed March 28 2007 Transportation

Places For Athletic Supporters
You may now know how to hit Chicago like a jock, but you still throw like a girl.
Zack on Wed March 28 2007 City Life/Cultural

Love Your Library
The Chicago Public Library just released its list of April events. There's a talk by Julia Alvarez, a series of educational seminars on home buying and financial planning, children's story time and ton more great events. Oh, and don't you have some books to return?
Shylo on Wed March 28 2007 City Life/Cultural

A-Hem
Would you like to be snarked at by Nina Garcia and Michael Kors? Cool. Then you should totally try out for Bravo's Project Runway. Auditions will be held at the Westin Hotel next Tuesday.
Shylo on Wed March 28 2007 Radio/TV

Wasted Away Again In Wrigleyville
The folks at Deadspin (Gawker's sports blog) just posted their season preview for [announcer voice] your revamped 2007 Chicago Cubs.
Zack on Wed March 28 2007 Sports/Recreation

Chikka Boom Is My Favorite
A meandering video exposé on Chicago boat names. Oddly therapeutic.
Zack on Wed March 28 2007 Found on the Web

Don't Forget Yer Milk
Ever get the jones for school lunch? If you're hankering for childhood delicacies such as mini corn dogs, crappy pizza and ham and cheese pinwheels, compare and contrast these school lunch menus from the Francis Parker School, Arlington Heights school district, Morgan Park Academy, and Saukview Elementary.
Shylo on Wed March 28 2007 Eating/Drinking

Jackass of the Week
College newspapers may not be known as paragons of journalism, but some local schools have some trailblazing pieces online, such as Columbia Chronicle's Jackass of the Week column. Other recent college paper wackiness comes from an article about Microsoft vernacular, an apology from a paper that got it all wrong and a pseudo op-ed arguing for a "Star Trek Defense" system against illegal aliens.
David on Wed March 28 2007 In the News

Tribune ownership staying in Chicago?
Bloomberg News is quoting sources close to the Tribune Co. auction as saying Tribune will probably accept the $8 billion takeover offer from native Chicagoan Sam Zell by the end of the week.
Kris on Tue March 27 2007 Business/Shopping

Low Cost Sneakers (No Word on Headbands)
Chicago Bulls center Ben Wallace is joining the affordable sneaker movement with his new shoe "the Big Ben" expected to be available in the fall and to retail for $15. The shoes look to have all the popular features of today's modern athletic footwear sans the markup.
Shaz on Tue March 27 2007 Sports/Recreation

No Longer Building Solo
Solo Cup officially abandoned its new factory plans and will sell its portion of the former U.S. Steel South Works site. The new owner, Southworks Development LLC will fold the new property into its existing holdings and create a multi-use development. To put the project into context, the development area, including adjoining parkland, is bigger than the Loop.
David on Tue March 27 2007 Arts/Architecture

Speaking of the Bears and eBay...
Reader Zach informs us that some of those Bears SuperBowl XLI Champions shirts that got sent to Africa have found their way to eBay. A must-have for the ultimate superfan.
Andrew on Tue March 27 2007 Sports/Recreation

Awkward Moment?
Embattled U.S. Attorney General Alberto Gonzales is scheduled to make a stop in Chicago today to tout the "Project Safe Childhood" campaign. He'll share the lectern with Chicago-based U.S. Attorney Patrick Fitzgerald, who was recently dubbed "not distinguished" by a former aide to Gonzales.
DanX on Tue March 27 2007 Politics/Activism

This Week in Commercial Real Estate
Lowe's is building a second store in Chicago -- this time on a 50-acre former steel plant site at 83rd and Stewart, just off the Dan Ryan Expressway. The Burlington Free Press reports that local fav Burton Snowboards is opening a store here. Lastly, keep tabs on 108 North State here at the live Block 37 cam.
DanX on Tue March 27 2007 Business/Shopping

Today's eBay Find
A commemorative wristwatch from the 1940 NFL championship, where the Chicago Bears beat the Washington Redskins 73-0. The watch, originally given to Bears fullback Gary Famiglietti, recently turned up in the personal effects of a northwest suburban man who died in November. The Sun-Times reports that one interested buyer is of course the Chicago Bears, who would love to have this piece of team history.
Jim on Tue March 27 2007 Sports/Recreation

It's American Diabetes Alert Day: Get Tested!
Today is American Diabetes Alert Day, a perfect day to take a few moments to get tested. According to the American Diabetes Association about one-third of the nearly 21 million Americans living with the disease are undiagnosed. Take a quick risk test, and if you score high, no cookie for you - it's time to schedule an appointment with your doc for further testing.
Jenni on Tue March 27 2007 Health/Fitness

Vote for the Worst
Who knew that Vote For the Worst, the subversive element in the American Idol universe, has a Chicago connection?
Shaz on Mon March 26 2007 Radio/TV

"Final" Chicago Spire Design Unveiled
While Calatrava claims he will "keep on working on the shape of the building to the very end," Crain's is calling the latest Chicago Spire design the "final plans." Of course, no one knows if the building will actually get built, but design advances and political maneuvering continue.
David on Mon March 26 2007 Arts/Architecture

Add Gourmand to that List
With the whole Filter/Swank Franks story heating up, Gourmand, the South Loop coffee shop and former sister shop of Filter, ~~looks to be closing down as well, according to a conversation with a now former employee~~ is closed. Though Bob Berger has nothing to do with this one, if anyone wants to hear an interview with him by Chicago Public Radio's Steve Edwards, check this out. It was a couple years ago when Berger was doing his whole video-cameras-in-the-Flat-Iron-Building venture, and it shows what kind of answer-evading weirdo the guy really is. It is under the August 7, 2001 program near the bottom of the page.
James on Mon March 26 2007 In the News

Yacht Rock 2.0
Some dude at The New York Sun just said that the Chicago music scene is the "capital of the budding New Mellow." Whatever that means.
Zack on Mon March 26 2007 Music/Clubs

Starting Up on the Cheap
Top story in today's Trib Business section, about the sinking costs of starting your own business using web-based software, features two local success stories. On the vendor side, it mentions 37 Signals, makers of Basecamp and the new contact manager Highrise. On the client side, they talk to local start-up Tappity, a new user-driven tool for finding, rating and collecting links to mobile-friendly websites.
Sandy on Mon March 26 2007 In the News

That's Mest Up
Anthony Lovato, former lead singer of the suburban punk ensemble Mest, is being held in an LA jail on $1 million bond for allegedly stabbing a guy to death in a parking garage.
Amy on Mon March 26 2007 Music/Clubs

Celebrity Play Club 2007
Victory Gardens Theater announced this morning this year's celebrity playwrights for its annual Chicago Stories benefit. Sun-Times entertainment columnist Bill Zwecker, retired Tribune theater critic Richard Christiansen (also author of A Theater of Our Own, the definitive history of Chicago theater), and the husband and wife team of Attorney General Lisa Madigan and New Yorker cartoonist Pat Byrnes (writing a musical, no less!) will each author a ten-minute play to be directed by VGT artistic director Dennis Zacek. This year's class joins such illustrious (and often first-time) playwrights as John Mahoney, Phil Jackson, Mike Royko, Carol Mosely-Braun and Jesse Jackson—last year's writers were Rick Bayless, Alpana Singh, and Tribune columnist Rick Kogan. The benefit is May 4; see Slowdown for details.
Kris on Mon March 26 2007 Theatre/Dance

The Blues Line
Speaking of the NYT, the Grey Lady turned her attention to our glorious transit system this weekend, and noted its "precarious" funding situation and crumbling condition.
Andrew on Mon March 26 2007 Transportation

Crack of the Skull
In 2005, Adam Greenberg was called up to the Chicago Cubs from a farm team in Tennessee. During his first-ever MLB at-bat, he was struck in the head by a 90 MPH fastball. This week's New York Times Magazine looks at what he's doing now.
Shylo on Sun March 25 2007 Sports/Recreation

Building a Piano (Wing)
The Art Institute recently installed a construction camera so we can put a face in our dreams of more modern and contemporary art. The camera produces a new image every 15 minutes.
David on Sun March 25 2007 Arts/Architecture

DeRo and Kot at SXSW
If you're looking for more SXSW news (besides what you're finding on Transmission here), "Sound Opinions" aired its SXSW wrap-up show this weekend. Check out the episode, which features some Chicago bands and a drunk-ish sounding Greg Kot waxing super-poetic about music.
Shylo on Sun March 25 2007 Music/Clubs

You Got Feminism in My Porn!
Pornography and feminism: two great tastes that taste great together! Tonight you can watch the documentary, "Hot and Bothered: Feminist Pornography," a look at how women are changing the industry from behind the camera. The screening is followed by a Q&A with director Becky Goldberg, a panel discussion with some local filmmakers, and some naughty raffle prizes from Early to Bed and others. All this empowered sauciness takes place tonight at 7:30 at the Leather Archives & Museum, 6418 N. Greenview. There's a $5 suggested donation, and of course you have to be 18.
Amy on Sat March 24 2007 Offbeat/Misc. Events

See Ira for Cheap
The fine frugal folks at Make Love, Not Debt tell of how they used their savvy powers of negotiation to watch the new "This American Life" television show for cheap. Find out how they added Showtime to their cable plan for just $2 a month.
Shylo on Fri March 23 2007 Weblogs

Goodbye Filter/Swank Franks, Thanks Bob
According to this week's Chicago Journal article There goes the neighborhood, long time Wicker Park hipster hangouts Filter and Swank Franks will be no more by late this year or early next. The owner of the Flat Iron Building, which the two businesses are located in, is Bob Berger, a big time Chicago real estate mogul who also owns the landmark Fine Arts Building on Michigan Avenue. The article explains that yet another Bank of America will fill the void left by the two departures. Berger is also the reason why South Loop residents don't have Rain Dog Cafe anymore.
James on Fri March 23 2007 Politics/Activism

2nd Annual Day of Action Against Street Harassment
Join the Rogers Park Young Women's Action Team this may in their 2nd Annual Day of Action Against Street Harassment and supporting women and girls' safety in Chicago. The group defines "taking action" broadly and encourages groups and individuals to work together on that day in creative street actions, conventional protests, and advocacy work of a wide variety. For more information and to get involved, email rpywat@hotmail.com.
Daniel on Fri March 23 2007 Politics/Activism

Get Your Ghet On
Hey, did you hear? Oakland's Ghetto Gourmet is in town for a couple underground dining dates over the next couple days. More details -- and later this weekend, a report from the first dinner -- in Drive-Thru.
Andrew on Fri March 23 2007 Eating/Drinking

Heads, Maori Win
The Field Museum of Natural History will return the skulls of 14 Maori (which were acquired sometime in the mid-19th Century) to their New Zealand homeland and, specifically, the Te Papa national museum.
Dan K. on Fri March 23 2007 Offbeat/Misc. Events

Kronos Posters For Everyone!
I know it's caught your eye while waiting for the bus...those ridiculous pictures of a hot chick eating a giant greasy gyros, usually in a tank top. Would you like one of those posters for your very own? Yes, Kronos is selling them.
Brian on Fri March 23 2007 Eating/Drinking

I Can Fly Twice As High
Reading Rainbow is still at it, LeVar Burton is still the host, and they're having a contest...with prizes! WTTW is calling for storybook submissions for the Reading Rainbow Young Writers & Illustrators Contest. Kindergarteners through third graders have all the fun.
Zack on Fri March 23 2007 Radio/TV

Yet Another Guy Gets Indicted
Former Streets and San Chief Al Sanchez committed a big oops when he got caught funneling jobs to political cronies, strong-arming employees out of time or cash for campaigns, and even making workers shovel his snow. He is the 48th person to be indicted in the Hired Truck scandal.
Shylo on Fri March 23 2007 Politics/Activism

We've Got It Under Control ... Like Iraq
Congressperson Tim Walberg (R-MI), recently noted most of Iraq is "reasonably under control." Well, you know, "at least as well as Detroit or Chicago ... or Harvey, Illinois."
David on Fri March 23 2007 Politics/Activism

Through Rain, Sleet or... Slowly
Chicago's postal service is the worst in the nation, according to a recent survey, and the Southwest Herald's Ray Hanania wants to hear your horror stories. You can even send them by mail, if you dare.
Andrew on Fri March 23 2007 City Life/Cultural

For Once, It's Not About The TV Show
This American Life debuts a site redesign.
Jim on Thu March 22 2007 Radio/TV

R.A.T.M. Coming to Chicago
Well not quite, but it looks as if Zack de la Rocha and Tom Morello from Rage Against the Machine will be in town Saturday April 14 at Federal Plaza to protest McDonalds of all things. It's still unclear whether the two of them will play music or what time they will be around, but it's interesting nonetheless.
James on Thu March 22 2007 Politics/Activism

Small Is Cool
Apartment Therapy: Chicago wants to see someone local win the 2007 Smallest, Coolest Apartment Contest. If you think your tiny pad has what it takes to beat all comers, enter by April 6.
Andrew on Thu March 22 2007 Arts/Architecture

They Built This City
Feel like some hometown exploration? The American Institute of Architects just released their list of 150 Illinois Great Places. The list includes must-sees like FLW's Robie House but also the Sofitel, bungalows in general, the van der Rohe-designed IIT campus and, well, 146 more.
Shylo on Thu March 22 2007 Arts/Architecture

Still Time To Sign Up For Art Mini-Golf
Two mid-Southside arts organizations, Material Exchange and Experimental Station, are sponsoring the "First Annual Putt-Putt Green Design Competition" and are opening a temporary public mini-golf course from March 29th to April 3rd. There are still spots to play, so sign up soon.
Daniel on Thu March 22 2007 Arts/Architecture

Chicago 101
Gridskipper got it right when they called it "the Beginner's Guide to Chicago;" not many surprises on this list (though the shout-out to UIC's bowling alley is refreshing.) And hey, we're "twice as smart and half as nice as the folks in St. Louis and Minneapolis" here in the "capital of the Midwest." Great.
Andrew on Thu March 22 2007 Found on the Web

Your Help Needed
The family of David Cornbleet, the dermatologist killed in his office on Michigan Avenue last year, have updated their myspace page with new surveillance video from the Home Depot in Lincoln Park of a man purchasing an item that may be linked to the scene. They're asking for the city's help in identifying him.
Vince Jose on Thu March 22 2007 In the News

Plan Your Bus Trip
The RTA actually listened to a customer, reports the CTA Tattler: you can now choose "buses only" on the RTA Trip Planner. (Meanwhile, the RedEye now has a CTA blog of its own.)
Andrew on Thu March 22 2007 Business/Shopping

Interactive Labor Trail
The Chicago Center for Working-Class Studies presents the Interactive Labor Trail, a map of 140 significant locations in the history of labor, migration, and working-class culture in Chicago and Illinois.
DanX on Thu March 22 2007 Politics/Activism

Transmission Feature: 5 Reviews for You
Today we've got a fistful of new music by some of the best Chicago (adopted or native) artists around. Click on over to our favorite lil' music page, Transmission, and head on out to your favorite local music store to get in on all the fun between your ears.
Anne on Thu March 22 2007 Gapers

SSSSSttttteeeeelllllllllllllllaaaaaaaaa!
There was a Stella Yelling Contest, and Phil Wackerfuss won it.
David on Thu March 22 2007 Theatre/Dance

To Protect and Serve...Or Else.
One of "Chicago's (very large) Finest" was caught on video beating a female bartender after getting cut off. ~~For some reason a Salt Lake City CBS affiliate is the only site hosting the clip.~~ It may be brutal and sensational, but if it moves just one person caught in a similar situation to do more than the guy in the white cap, then it's worth it. UPDATE: The Tribune story now has accompanying video. (Thanks, Suzy.)
Vince Jose on Wed March 21 2007 In the News

Button Up!
Hey, Busy Beaver is having a design contest for its next So&So button set! You could be famous in one-inch increments!
Andrew on Wed March 21 2007 Arts/Architecture

Cook County Cold Case Squad Kaput?
More county budget cut fallout. Sneed is reporting that the Cook County state's attorney's office is doing away with its Cold Case squad (scroll down past Conrad Black's wife calling a reporter "a slut"). These are the people who solved the Brown's Chicken Murders w/ saliva and an ex-girlfriend.
DanX on Wed March 21 2007 Politics/Activism

"Excuse Me? Which Way to Fort Dearborn?"
The Map Room site (no relation to the bar of the same name), currently featured links to U of C Library pages featuring gorgeous old maps of the city that you can "zoomify." Zoomify? I do not think that word means what you think it means.
Dan K. on Wed March 21 2007 History

"This American Life" Viewing Party
The first episode of everyone's fave public radio-based storytelling hour airs tomorrow night on Showtime. But if you don't have SHO, what are you gonna do? Write in and tell us if you know of any public viewing parties, 'kay?
Shylo on Wed March 21 2007 Radio/TV

Geese Breach Peace
Beastly geese must cease increase. "Nest police, please decrease, bring surcease to geese eggs," park district pleads. Geese eggs to be beat or greased without caprice. Honk.
Dan K. on Wed March 21 2007 Outdoors/Environment

Another Reason to Shop Locally
That huge Borders in Uptown that was supposed to save the neighborhood three years ago by bringing retail and luxury condos to the area? Yeah, it's probably gonna close, along with the one on Clark & Diversey, one on North Ave., and one in Hyde Park. Because once The Man starts losing money, he no longer cares for your precious "community." Or so I've heard.
Amy on Wed March 21 2007 Business/Shopping

First Slice: Offering hope to Chicago's hungriest
Check out First Slice, Chef Mary Ellen Diaz's project to help feed Chicago families in need. A subscription brings home-cooked meals to your door, and sends healthy and delicious meals to a Chicago family who would otherwise go without. Or, volunteer at the community kitchen. Either way, it's a tasty way to help others.
Jenni on Wed March 21 2007 Eating/Drinking

Pretend You're in Third Grade...
...and go on a factory tour!
Andrew on Wed March 21 2007 Offbeat/Misc. Events

They Say It's the First Thing to Go
Researchers at Northwestern have discovered a possible -- and very odd -- link between vasectomies and Primary Progressive Aphasia, a rare form of dementia. So, ladies, even though experts are not discouraging men from getting their tube tied, be prepared to hear yet another reason why you should be solely responsible for contraception.
Amy on Tue March 20 2007 Health/Fitness

New Group Taking On Controversial Juvenile Detention Center
Critical Resistance Chicago who are known for their "abolitionist" stance towards prison, have just announced their "No Child Left Behind Bars" campaign which will launch with a Public Forum on Saturday, March 31, 2007 From 2:00 to 5:00pm at The Jacob Carruthers Center for Inner City Studies (Northeastern University), 700 East Oakwood Blvd. The meeting will have three primary goals: - to provide a space for youth and their families to share their experiences with the Cook County Juvenile Temporary Detention Center (JTDC) - to build membership in the No Child Left Behind Bars coalition - to build momentum for the coalition's next meeting, focusing on alternatives to the detention center. For more information get in touch with Yusufu L. Mosley, Project Coordinator Yusufu@criticalresistance.org, Office Phone: (312) 281-1463 or with the Cell: 1-773-443-4077
Daniel on Tue March 20 2007 Politics/Activism

Jimmy Corrigan makes a TV show
Can you feel the excitement? The TV version of This American Life debuts Thursday night on Showtime. Can't wait? Check out some Chris Ware animation (Flash video player link) from the show.
Jim on Tue March 20 2007 Radio/TV

Testing, Testing, One, Two...Four?
Have you ever walked out of a test sure to your core that it was rigged? Illinois elementary school kids had good reason this year.
Vince Jose on Tue March 20 2007 Schools/Education

Chopping Block Offers Class Tonight on Gluten-Free Living
Folks with celiac disease (or who dine often with folks with celiac disease) can learn all about living well gluten-free tonight, at "Enlightened Cooking with Dietitian Dawn Jackson Blatner." Brought to you by the Chopping Block, the event takes place at the Merchandise Mart, 6-8:30pm. Register here.
Jenni on Tue March 20 2007 Health/Fitness

Highrise Launches
Highrise, the shared contact manager and task list from Chicago-based 37Signals, just launched this morning.
DanX on Tue March 20 2007 Resources

Look Out for That Sand Trap
Custodians at a Mundelein golf course discovered a skull and assorted bones at and around the 14th tee. The varmint responsible has yet to be identified. [Warning: The last two links are noisy.]
Dan K. on Tue March 20 2007 Sports/Recreation

Chagall Fans, Take Note
It's been a rough few years for Chicago's Chagall fans. His beautiful America Windows has been off exhibit at the Art Institute because of construction on the museum's new wing (and won't be back till 2009). And in 2005 one of his paintings was sold to a private collector. However, we still have the Four Seasons, and there's a new biography. Its author, Jonathan Wilson, is discussing it tonight up in Evanston. Slowdown has you covered, or visit the Nextbook website to buy tickets.
Deb on Tue March 20 2007 Arts/Architecture

Thoughtcrimes and Misdemeanors
It's been on YouTube for two weeks, but the video mashup of Hillary's "conversations" with the famous Ridley Scott "1984" Mac commercial, purportedly made by an anonymous Obama supporter, has made worldwide news since it was picked up by the Drudge Report this weekend. Obama's camp is disavowing any involvement, but I imagine internally they think it's pretty awesome.
Kris on Tue March 20 2007 Politics/Activism

Who is Attending the Best CPS High Schools?
If you guess that it's the Chicago Public School kids who did the best, you'd mostly right. Crain's reports that 17% of the students who were accepted into the 8 Selective Enrollment High Schools last year attended private schools rather than CPS Elementary Schools. Needless to say, this is creating more than some tension for "CPS Lifer" parents who'd like some leg up for loyalty (and might fuel a few residency investigations).
Shaz on Tue March 20 2007

Spike Press Relaunch
Spike Press, one of the best silkscreen poster shops in a city crawling with them, has just launched a new website.
DanX on Tue March 20 2007 Arts/Architecture

Blue Bag Blues
The kind folks at the Wicker Park Food Co-Op have penned a tune that fairly sums up just about everyone's frustrations with the city's recycling program: The Blue Bag Blues. (Warning: it's an mp3 download.)
Brian on Mon March 19 2007 Music/Clubs

A Home Turf Challenge to Boeing
Plane watchers will be pleased to hear the Airbus A380 will definitely visit O'Hare tomorrow.
David on Mon March 19 2007 Transportation

Put It in Your Little Black Book
Want to see a movie tomorrow night? There's an advance screening of Black Book, a WWII period piece set in Nazi-occupied Holland, tomorrow night (Tuesday) at 7pm at Landmark Century Center Cinemas, 2828 N. Clark St., courtesy of Nerve.com and Sony Pictures Classics. It's free, but you have to RSVP here to get in.
Andrew on Mon March 19 2007 Film

Convention Watch: Association of Paroling Authorities International
Keeping track of the City's conventions so you don't have to. The APAI's annual conference is in town this week. Theme: "We Know What Works: Moving From Research to Policy to Practice". No word on what the clients of all these parole officers will be up to while their POs are here in Chicago.
DanX on Mon March 19 2007 Offbeat/Misc. Events

Catch Up on Your SXSW Stories
In case you haven't been keeping up, we've now got a handy dandy one-stop link to all of the exclusive, drama-filled SXSW 2007 Tour Diaries from Chicago buzz bands Office and Catfish Haven over at Transmission. Scroll down the Transmission page just past Tape Findings, or just click here to get the dish from Austin, TX.
Anne on Mon March 19 2007 Gapers

Yet Another Googlemap, Gangsta Edition
In connection with the current Fuel question: If you don't know what gang claims your neighborhood, you should check out the handy googlemaps on the invaluable ChicagoGangs.org. I just found out that the kids in red and black on my block are members the Almighty Black P-Stones.
Andrew on Mon March 19 2007 City Life/Cultural

Reading A Chicago Tavern
This month the Gapers Block Book Club is reading A Chicago Tavern: A Goat, a Curse, and the American Dream by Rick Kogan. Find out more at the book club blog.
Alice on Mon March 19 2007 Gapers

Carson's Still Interested in the City
Now that the flagship Carson Pirie Scott store is closed, word has it the department store is interested in opening a new location in the South Loop.
David on Mon March 19 2007 Business/Shopping

In Case You Missed It
Simeon defeated O'Fallon 77-54 last night in the Class AA boy's basketball championships. Long-time high school sports beat writer Bob Sakamoto called them, "the greatest Public League team of all time". That's saying alot.
DanX on Mon March 19 2007 Sports/Recreation

So Green Architecture isn't a Passing Fad
Someone smart at the Tribune asked its arts and architecture critics what prompted them to reevaluate artists in their disciplines. Some second looks include the Trap Door Theatre, William McDonough and Walker Evans.
David on Mon March 19 2007 Arts/Architecture

Living Kitchen: New Urban Food Workshops
If you've never gotten a chance to join local artist-gardner-ecologist Nance Klehm's urban food workshops, you are in for a treat this spring. Klehm has just announced a new series of "Living Kitchen" workshops that will include foraging for food in the urban landscape, cheese-making, pickling, sourdough and medicine. According to Klehm, "Living Kitchen is about direct experience with what is living and growing around us, new tastes, simple food-making processes, and sharing with others."

The workshops are often free, though some cost as much as $70 to cover supplies, tastings, take homes and expertise. Space is limited so get in touch. Questions? Contact: Nance Klehm, nettlesting@yahoo.com or 773-762-0277
4/11, Wednesday 6-9pm - $50, 3 way pickling kimchi and pickles
3/15, Sunday 1-4pm -$50 wild sourdough wild starters and bread making basics
3/20, Sunday 2-4pm by donation**, urbanforage walk, location TBA
5/6, Sunday 1-5 pm - $70 raw cheese
5/12, Saturday 2-4pm by donation**, urbanforage walk, location TBA
5/27, Sunday, 1-5pm - $70 Raw Cheese
6/16, Saturday 2-4pm by donation**, urbanforage walk, location TBA
6/24, Sunday, 1-5pm - $50 local medicine herbal tinctures/salves/syrups/lozenges and teas

Daniel on Sun March 18 2007 Offbeat/Misc. Events

Craft Racket: Round 2
Are you a crafty business owner looking to learn better ways of doing things? Have you found the better way and you're hoping to find people to listen? The Chicago Craft Mafia would love you to join them at their 2nd Craft Racket, a networking event geared toward small business owners (especially those that are crafty). Details in Slowdown, or course.
Cinnamon on Sun March 18 2007 Business/Shopping

NYT Calls Out the CHA
In a stark take on the remaining public housing near Halsted and Division, the New York Times says, "the Plan for Transformation, a national model in its scope and original ambition, is off schedule and in need of more money."
DanX on Sun March 18 2007 Print/Magazines

Licensed Public Way Contractors
From the bowels of the much-maligned City website comes a current (as of March 8) list of licensed public way contractors. If you see someone putting a hole in the street and they're not on this list, call 311.
DanX on Fri March 16 2007 Outdoors/Environment

Moz Mopes in Midwest
Put in your order for gladiola now. Morrissey's playing a slew of dates across the Midwest this May, mostly in smaller theatres. This extended tour augments his November appearance at the Aragon -- which was totally amazing.
Shylo on Fri March 16 2007 Music/Clubs

~~Sweet~~ Sour Home Chicago
Over at the Beachwood Reporter, Don Jacobson has been collecting and evaluating songs that namedrop the city that works. Unsurprisingly, few of the tunes are happy-go-lucky toe-tappers. Subjects include blood, drugs, ghettos, guns, and elevator repair.
Dan K. on Fri March 16 2007 Music/Clubs

Puss Pummelling
In last night's surprising game between Duke and VCU, former Glenbrook North High standout Jon Scheyer took one hard to the face. Duke was ousted, Scheyer was bloodied, and lots of betting pools were hosed. (Awesome bloody photo here.)
Shylo on Fri March 16 2007 Sports/Recreation

That Doesn't Belong in a Milkshake!
Oak Brook's very own McDonald's seems to be having some trouble on one of its British websites. (Unfortunately, the item on the original website is in Flash, so we can't link to it.)
David on Fri March 16 2007 Found on the Web

Second Life in the Second City
Like any newly emergent virtual world, Second Life can encompass both wickedness, and virtue, but what it definitely is not, is irrelevant. The 3rd annual RL (real life!) Second Life Community Convention is taking place this August at the downtown Hilton. With program tracks including Education and Business/Future of the Metaverse, its sure to host some interesting events. It may be months away, but once you log on you'll see that's barely enough time to get a good skin, let alone your bearings in SL.
Vince Jose on Fri March 16 2007 Offbeat/Misc. Events

March Merger Madness, Global City Style
The merger of the Chicago Board of Trade (CBOT) and the Chicago Mercantile Exchange may be derailed by a new offer from Atlanta's Intercontinental Exchange. The good news for Chicago is the Atlanta folks want to come to us, so the city will retain the CBOT, regardless.
David on Fri March 16 2007 Business/Shopping

Chicago's CFO Resigns
The city's chief financial officer, Dana Levinson, resigned today to take a job with the Royal Bank of Scotland. Even as he leaves, however, he insists that taxpayers won't be on the hook for the 2016 Olympics if we get it.
Andrew on Fri March 16 2007 In the News

St. Patty's Shopping
Once you've had your fill of green beer (or better yet, beforehand), head over to the Empty Bottle for this month's Handmade Market, where you'll find everything from soaps to jewelry to accessories made of recycled bike tires. Details in Slowdown.
Andrew on Fri March 16 2007 Business/Shopping

Plug It In, Plug It In!
IIT is about to boost the Chicago Department of Fleet Management's Green Fleets Action Agenda [pdf] with a prototype plug-in hybrid electric vehicle. The city will decide whether it wants more of the cars after a four to six month trial.
David on Fri March 16 2007 Transportation

Apprentice Alert
As if the Trump Tower wasn't bad enough by itself, now Chicagoans may soon have to deal with the possibility of seeing its namesake hanging out around town. The Sun-Times is reporting that The Donald and crew will probably be shooting the next season of The Apprentice here. This latest report has The Wind gearing up for its impending showdown with The Hair.
Zack on Thu March 15 2007 Radio/TV

Accessible Chicago
Accessible Chicago is a site that "takes the guesswork out of traveling in Chicago with a wheelchair." Their five-star ratings and reviews give their take on degree of accessibility.
DanX on Thu March 15 2007 Found on the Web

Polish Up the Doomsday Clock
The Bulletin of the Atomic Scientists is a nominee for a National Magazine Award for general excellence, in the smallest circulation category.
Kris on Thu March 15 2007 Print/Magazines

Transmission: A Feature and A Diary
Today at Transmission (where we love to rock), we've got some fresh beats for you. Click over and read the first of many SXSW tour diary entries from Chicago buzzworthy band Office who've just arrived in Austin, Texas for some serious rockin' (keep your eye on the blog for more entries as the week goes on). Also, it's Thursday, so you know we've got a fresh feature for you. This week, it's an insightful interview with local spinner DJ Major Taylor. Click, dance, click!
Anne on Thu March 15 2007 Gapers

CTA to Add Flight Departure Info at Clark & Lake
The CTA will be installing Flight Departure Info Displays at the Clark & Lake station for flights leaving from both O'Hare and Midway. Precisely what you need to stay calm and relaxed while waiting for the train.
Shaz on Thu March 15 2007 Transportation

Sun-Times Gets Social
Not sure when this feature was added, but every article on the Sun-Times website now has social bookmarking links from a service called Add This. Careful with your clicking-- the "share" links are just above the ad in the right-hand column.
DanX on Thu March 15 2007 Print/Magazines

And That's Elvis in the Bush Behind Him
Salt-stain Marys? Please. That's so 2005. All the cool kids are seeing Jesus Christ in a southwest neighborhood tree now. What? Well, maybe you're not squinting hard enough. Here, try practicing on this grilled cheese sandwich.
Dan K. on Thu March 15 2007 Offbeat/Misc. Events

I'd Like to Thank the Academy...
They are the Oscar's (not Golden Globes) of education. Today six of the area's finest teachers were presented with Golden Apple Awards for excellence in teaching. Way to go! Pssst...post-awards party in the teacher's lounge.
Paris on Wed March 14 2007 Schools/Education

You Just Missed Him!
According to S-T columnist Bill Zwecker, sexy bringer-backer J. Timberlake took advantage of the MCA's free day yesterday. He was spotted lunching at Puck's Cafe on the terrace after checking out the Stingel exhibit. And this is hot on the heels of J. Simpson skunking up Mich. Ave. a few weeks ago.
Shylo on Wed March 14 2007 City Life/Cultural

Money for Something
Congratulations to Charles Taylor, NU Philosophy Prof, for bagging the world's biggest monetary prize awarded for research into spirituality; and it's a big'un. The Tribune has the story.
Vince Jose on Wed March 14 2007 Religion/Spirituality

NARC!
From the Wheaton Sun comes a story of a 16-year-old who works with the cops to bust suburban convenience stores who sell cigs to kids. 53 businesses (including that most American of establishments, Wal-Mart) bit and were fined $200 a pop. Okay, fine. But we wonder just what this kid got busted for that he had to work this sting.
Shylo on Wed March 14 2007 In the News

A Noteworthy Community
The Chicago Classical Music community covers multitudinous classical music happenings, musicians, composers, and directors in Chicago and elsewhere. No one can accuse them of having too many notes.
Dan K. on Wed March 14 2007 Music/Clubs

Do Not Feed Gum to Your Dog
Don't be distracted by Wrigley's announcement that it will launch a sensory "invigorating" gum called "5" this summer. Their Product FAQ offers so much more, including an important dog related item.
David on Wed March 14 2007 Found on the Web

Freeloader Alert
It seems that the Millenium Park Metra Station (nee Randolph St. Station) is now complete. To celebrate, Metra's giving free coffee to commuters at that station on Friday.
Brian on Wed March 14 2007 Transportation

Conrad Black is Darth Vader?
Today's Sun-Times contains a brief, meaty letter from publisher John Cruickshank on the subject of Lord Conrad Black's "fallen empire." The former CEO's fraud trial kicks off today and while "feelings of resentment ... are still quite inflamed," the paper promises to provide scrupulously fair coverage.
Shylo on Wed March 14 2007 Print/Magazines

Cicada Love
"It started out as a harmless fling. He was a male cicada in love, she was a female cicada with needs." Could this possibly be from a real newspaper? Find out now.
David on Wed March 14 2007 Stuff

Wine, Words, and Song
More than 40 of Chicago's top storytellers -- along with some DJs, live music, and lots of vino -- converge on the top floor of Webster's Wine Bar for Serendipity Theater Collective's second annual 2nd Story: Story, Wine & Music Festival, April 26-May 13. Each night centers around a different topic, like community, fear, heartbreak, or learning from strangers, with a handful of monologists taking the stage throughout the night as patrons enjoy food, sponsored wine flights, and music. Tickets go on sale March 15.
Amy on Tue March 13 2007 Theatre/Dance

Fill Out Your Bracket
If you haven't yet read this week's Hoops in Five, it's mostly about the NCAA Tournament. For those interested in that sort of thing (and who doesn't fill out a bracket, really?) join the Gapers Block pool. The winner will be announced on the site, and receive both my admiration and a moderately exciting prize!
Jason on Tue March 13 2007 Sports/Recreation

But Will They Play "Roxanne"?
The Police will not be here to create disorder, the Police will be here to preserve disorder. Better start looking for a parking space now.
Dan K. on Tue March 13 2007 Music/Clubs

Yours Truly, Jack the Reporter
The Whitechapel Club is a strange bit of forgotten Chicago lore. A late 19th Century gathering of Chicago journalists who wet their whistles at a local tavern and named themselves after the London slum terrorized by Jack the Ripper, the group eventually held meetings in a room decorated with skulls, nooses, and other grisly artifacts. Guest speakers were invited to address the club, only to be insulted away from the podium, and the subject of death was routinely lampooned. Alas, it lasted only five years, but the Newberry Library holds the club's remaining papers.
Dan K. on Tue March 13 2007 History

Attack of the Red Eyed Monsters
If you're planning on attending concerts at the Ravinia Festival this summer, you may want to check the schedule [pdf] extra early this year. Why, you ask? Cicadas.
David on Tue March 13 2007 Music/Clubs

Missed Connections Report
Okay, not sure what was in the air at last week's Scissor Sisters concert, but there's a bunch of Missed Connections related to it on Craig's List. Let's hope this weekend's drunken St. Patrick's Day festivities are equally productive.
Shylo on Tue March 13 2007 Found on the Web

Excerpts From "End of Watch" by Ed Burke
Alderman Edward M. Burke and co-writer Thomas J. O'Gorman are set to publish End of Watch: Chicago Police Killed in the Line of Duty 1853-2006 tomorrow. The book "examines the remarkable sacrifice of 526 sworn officers of the Chicago Police Department". Tons of chilling, detailed excerpts over at the Sun-Times, from 1919 through the 70s.
DanX on Tue March 13 2007 Books/Authors

State Education Report
After being delayed by wack technical problems for months, results of the Prairie State Achievement Tests finally reached Chicago schools. Parents, students and educators are furious at these delays, which prevented them from doing informed prep for next month's test.
Shylo on Tue March 13 2007 Schools/Education

Controversy About Poetry
The New Yorker recently published a piece on Chicago-based Poetry Magazine and its recent large gift from Ruth Lilly. Commenting on the article in this weekend's NY Times is David Orr, who raises the question: despite the New Yorker's criticisms of Poetry Magazine, why does the poetry in the New Yorker suck so badly? (Whatever you think of Poetry Magazine, they are having a lot of readings around town, if you're interested.)
Brian on Tue March 13 2007 Arts/Architecture

Metro Celebrates 25 Years at the Hideout
Regard this as your early invite: The Metro has announced it will celebrate its 25th anniversary at the annual Hideout Block Party, September 7-9. Bring your dancing shoes, and check the venues' websites for more information.
Kara on Mon March 12 2007 Music/Clubs

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March 2007

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