March 2008

This Week's A/C Feature: Sara Schnadt
If you haven't already, head over to A/C and check out this week's feature, which is an interview with performance and installation artist Sara Schnadt.
David Schalliol on Mon March 31 2008Gapers 

Read my LIPS
There once was a man named Zorn,
Who looked at the Sun-Times with scorn.
"This must be a trick;
That's not a limerick!"
Thus the Limerick Integrity Preservation Society was born.
Andrew Huff on Mon March 31 2008Print/Magazines 

Chicago 1968 Reexamined
AREA Chicago's new 1968/2008 takes a new look at the cultural legacy of 1968 in Chicago: the Democratic National Convention, riots, Chicago 10, Daley's shoot to kill order, etc.
Andrew Huff on Mon March 31 2008History 

Chicago Plays Hosts to Conference on the ICC
It’s nearly the 10th anniversary of the treaty establishing the International Criminal Court in The Hague. While it’s had its critics, the permanent body seeking justice in places like Darfur has won support from 106 countries. (And no, not from the U.S.) This month, DePaul’s International Human Rights Law Institute is hosting a conference on the ICC, a rare opportunity for Midwesterners.
Paul Smith on Mon March 31 2008Politics/Activism 

The Texture of the City
A collection of HDR photos of Chicago. (What's HDR?) [via, via]
Andrew Huff on Mon March 31 2008Photography 

Bud Burstin'
Want to help track the possible effects of climate change on area plants? You can sign up to be a part of Project Bud Burst. Chicago Public Radio has the story.
Anne Holub on Mon March 31 2008Outdoors/Environment 

Serious Cash for Elementary Schoolers
Thanks to Ariel Capital, students at Ariel Community Academy get to practice investing with $20,000 that's given to each first grade class. Don't worry, they don't get to touch it until sixth grade.
David Schalliol on Mon March 31 2008Schools/Education 

Are the Friendly Confines Getting Feisty?
The NYTimes turns its attention to the hundred year itch on the North Side.
Shaz Rasul on Sun March 30 2008Sports/Recreation 

Ebertfest Line-Up Announced
On Friday the line-up of films for Roger Ebert's 10th annual film festival was announced. Unfortunately you latecomers won't be able to get festival passes for the event, but individual tickets for each of the films will go on sale this Friday, April 4.
Jim Allenspach on Sun March 30 2008Film 

Cougar Sighting?
No, not that kind of cougar. A wild cat.
Anne Holub on Sun March 30 2008In the News 

A Darkened City
If you missed the view of downtown during Earth Hour, you can check it out in the GB flickr pool. The Trib also has photos and a video feature condensing the hour into a minute.
David Schalliol on Sun March 30 2008Photography 

Heavy Metal Parking Lot Coffee Table Book
Throw out the horns for Crystal Lake's Stephen D. Jensen for his limited edition book of rock photography, Music Photography--Volume One. If it contained nothing more than his portrait of GWAR's Beefcake the Mighty, it would still be totally awesome.
Mr. Dan Kelly on Fri March 28 2008Music/Clubs 

Lights Out Tomorrow Night
Don't forget to turn off unnecessary lights between 8 and 9pm tomorrow night, March 29. It's part of Earth Hour, and Chicago is one of the partner cities. Do what you can to make the skyline go dim.
Andrew Huff on Fri March 28 2008Offbeat/Misc. Events 

Zooey Gets Even More Famous
Zooey Deschanel graced Northwestern with her presence for a few years, then moved on to bigger and better things, like Almost Famous and Elf. Now, she's got a record.
Lindsay Muscato on Fri March 28 2008Music/Clubs 

More Pitchfork Additions
Dinosaur Jr, Mission of Burma, Jarvis Cocker (of Pulp) and Ghostface and Raekwon (from Wu-Tang Clan) have joined the lineup of the July 18-20 Pitchfork Music Festival.
Robyn Nisi on Fri March 28 2008Music/Clubs 

Your To-From Cost
Wondering how much that cab ride is gonna be? Check with Taxi Fare Finder. [via]
Andrew Huff on Fri March 28 2008Transportation 

Newest Fashion Craze: Walgreens Clothing
Walgreens, everyone's favorite fine fashion and apparel boutique, is rolling out a new clothing line next week. What's it called, you ask? Casual Gear.
David Schalliol on Fri March 28 2008Business/Shopping 

More Blue Mondays
Starting Tuesday, the city will be swapping its look-alike orange street cleaning signs for a rainbow of fruit flavors.
David Schalliol on Fri March 28 2008In the News 

Transmission Feature: En Espanol
This week's Transmission Feature takes you to the sides of your radio dial that you probably don't venture too often: Chicago's Latino music scene.
Anne Holub on Fri March 28 2008Gapers 

This Coffee Changes Lives
This week's Drive-Thru feature interviews a coffee importer in Chicago that is making meaningful connections with Ugandan farmers.
Robyn Nisi on Thu March 27 2008Eating/Drinking 

The 'Merc' of Distinction
When it becomes official, the Chicago Mercantile Exchange's deal to buy Nymex (the New York energy exchange) for $9.4 billion will make the Merc the the largest financial exchange in the world, according to the Financial Times.
Ken Green on Thu March 27 2008Business/Shopping 

Coach Sicko
Ugh. A basketball coach at Walter Payton Prep School has been arrested for sexually assaulting two female students. It is alleged that George Turner, a married father of two children, used a vibrator on one student while in a parked car; he attempted to molest a second student in late February. The two students notified authorities together.
Robyn Nisi on Thu March 27 2008Found on the Web 

Bird Songs in the NYT
The New York Times has launched a new blog, Measure for Measure, featuring Darrell Brown, Rosanne Cash, Suzanne Vega and our own Andrew Bird, who gets pride of first post. (Thanks, Sarah!)
Andrew Huff on Thu March 27 2008Weblogs 

An Arresting Development
Over at Second City Cop, one of Chicago's Finest and some of his fellow officers vent about the proposed changes by new top cop Jody Weis (whom they sort of humorously refer to as "J-Fed"). Let's just say that they're not too happy.
Ken Green on Thu March 27 2008Weblogs 

Cooking by Podcast
Want to learn how to cook? Check out the CHIC Podcast with Chef Tom Beckman, one of the instructors at the Cooking & Hospitality Institute of Chicago.
Andrew Huff on Thu March 27 2008Eating/Drinking 

BUSTing Out
BUST Magazine, that 15 year old feminist glossy, has just featured The Cool Kids in their "Men We Love" issue. Hi, BUST? We're Chicago. We already know.
Jaime Calder on Thu March 27 2008Print/Magazines 

Look, Ma, Still Growing!
The Chicago metropolitan area grew by an estimated 66,231 people during the last half of 2006 and the first half of 2007. It doesn't sound like much, but it makes us the seventh fastest-growing metropolitan area in the country.
David Schalliol on Thu March 27 2008In the News 

WGN Newscaster Wally Phillips Dies
Wally Phillips, who hosted shows on radio station WGN for 42 years, died today after a five-year battle with Alzheimer's disease. He was 82 years old.
Robyn Nisi on Thu March 27 2008In the News 

The "Top Chef" Train Rolls On
Missed tonight's "Top Chef" episode? We have your recap ready in Drive-Thru.
Robyn Nisi on Thu March 27 2008Eating/Drinking 

Radio on TV in Theaters
This American Life fans rejoice: May 1st is the date when you will be able to see the live stage show in NYC beamed to movie theaters across the country. Chicago fans will get to choose between two different theaters carrying the satellite feed of the show: City North 14; and River East 21. Tickets for the event will go on sale April 4.
Jim Allenspach on Wed March 26 2008Radio/TV 

City of Big Talkers
Overheard in Chicago = eavsedropping made easy.
Jaime Calder on Wed March 26 2008Found on the Web 

Lincoln Square Inside Ravenswood Inside Lincoln Square
The Trib has a quick primer on the community areas and the neighborhoods within them that highlights some lesser-known locales, such as Jackson Park Highlands and the Villa District.
David Schalliol on Wed March 26 2008City Life/Cultural 

Hello, Motos
Motorola will soon be two separate publicly traded companies.
Andrew Huff on Wed March 26 2008Business/Shopping 

TOC: Trump On Chicago
Is TimeOut's calendar off by a week? UPDATE: Apparently it was convincing enough to fool Crain's. D'oh!
Andrew Huff on Wed March 26 2008Print/Magazines 

Mission To Mars
They didn't make it to Superdawg, but a Chicago political strategist and his trusty companion did manage to travel all the way to Mars. For naught, as it turned out.
Ken Green on Wed March 26 2008City Life/Cultural 

There's a Social Network for Everything
Introducing MyCampFriends.
Andrew Huff on Wed March 26 2008Technology 

Political Donations by Address
Crain's has a nifty feature that allows you to map political donations by address, among other options. I discovered that of the $1.2 million in donations within four miles of my house, $46,845 went to Republicans. I guess the South Side is liberal or something...
David Schalliol on Wed March 26 2008Politics/Activism 

Block Party, Anyone?
Want to plan a summer block party? Neighbors Project explains how, with videos of grilling experts, tips from aldermen's offices, and photos and stories from those who've done this before.
Chris Brunn on Tue March 25 2008City Life/Cultural 

City of Big Procrastinators
We're No. 1... when it comes to putting off doing our federal taxes, according to Turbo Tax. Hey, figuring out how those bribes and kickbacks should be deducted takes time. Done yours yet? Didn't think so...
Ken Green on Tue March 25 2008City Life/Cultural 

Trucks of Chicago
As Sara says, "I drive a lot."
Andrew Huff on Tue March 25 2008Photography 

Taped in Front of a Live Studio Audience
WTTW is developing a new show, called "IL-informed," starring sketch comedy troupe Schadenfreude, and its pilot is being shot tomorrow. If you've got the day off, you should head over and be a part of the audience! They're taping from noon to 4pm at the WTTW studios, 5400 N. St. Louis Ave. Contact producer (and ex-GB staffer) Paris Shutz to reserve your spot: pschutz@wttw.com or 773-509-5443.
Andrew Huff on Tue March 25 2008Radio/TV 

Arts Building Shutdown Causes Controversy
The Three Arts Club, once a residence for women artists, is now directing its funds toward grant-making instead, and the building itself may become a schmancy hotel -- leaving former residents miffed and outraged at the board's decision-making. Over at the Reader, you can read the full story and reactions of those who loved this unique building and institution.
Lindsay Muscato on Tue March 25 2008In the News 

Drink Up!
On the local beverage front, Business Week profiles North Shore Distillery, an area company making high-end vodka and gin (they were previously featured in Drive-Thru), while Intelligentsia's Michael Phillips just captured the Great Lakes Regional Barista Competition behind his speciality drink, an espresso version of a Mai Tai.
Ken Green on Tue March 25 2008Eating/Drinking 

Green Meets Blue
Just in time for Earth Day and Arbor Day, local sustainability company Live It Green, LLC has gotten Gerber Bars to offer the Treetini -- a martini for the environmentally conscious -- during the month of April at Whiskey Blue, Whiskey Sky bars and Mexx Kitchen at the Whiskey. Every Treetini sold results in a tree planted in India.
Lauri Apple on Tue March 25 2008Outdoors/Environment 

Chicago Hope(s)
Baseball season kicked off today (yes, today...in Japan no less) so it might be a good time to take a look at what one sports website thinks of the prospects of the White Sox and Cubs this season.
Ken Green on Tue March 25 2008Sports/Recreation 

Chasing John Hughes
The LA Times looks for John Hughes, the revered director of such teen classics as Pretty in Pink and The Breakfast Club, and comes up empty-handed: Hughes hasn't directed a movie in over 15 years, and lives in seclusion in the North Shore suburbs. Despite his absence from Hollywood, Hughes is still working, kind of: he came up with the premise for the new film Drillbit Taylor (which got so-so reviews).
Robyn Nisi on Tue March 25 2008People/Sightings 

Anatomy of a Blog
Actually more like a blog of anatomy: Street Anatomy is the website of Vanessa Ruiz, a medical illustration student at UIC. Check out her collections for anatomical street art and tattoos, too.
Andrew Huff on Tue March 25 2008Weblogs 

Save Your Fork, There's Pie
Spring is in the air, and The Chicago Gay Men's Chorus are back with an all-American show! Titled "Apple Pie," the chorus' tribute to Americana will be performed the first weekend in April at the Athenaeum Theatre. Details in Slowdown.
Jim Allenspach on Tue March 25 2008Theatre/Dance 

It Pays to be Todd Stroger's Cousin
Donna Dunnings, the recently named Chief Financial Officer of Cook County, celebrated her promotion with a stunning $17K pay raise that brings her salary to nearly $160K. Dunnings, who is a cousin of County Board President Todd Stroger, was previously the county's budget director. She took that position in 1999 after being hired by John Stroger; the position was never advertised, and Dunnings was the sole applicant. FYI, Todd Stroger will be seeking re-election in 2010.
Robyn Nisi on Tue March 25 2008Politics/Activism 

Coming Earth Day: Organic Frangos
Starting on April 22, Earth Day, one will be able to purchase organic Frango mints at 70 Macy's locations, as well as online. Bonus: the Trib apparently believes the news to be so big it printed the last paragraph twice.
David Schalliol on Tue March 25 2008Eating/Drinking 

Everyone Is Famous
Chicago-based photographer Clayton Hauck goes to parties and clubs and takes pictures. Lots of them. So if you want some wonderful eye candy, enjoy his site Everyoneisfamous.com. (Note: a tiny few pictures are NSFW.)
Brian Sobolak on Mon March 24 2008People/Sightings 

Re-Cover the Fountain
The Wicker Park-Bucktown SSA is looking to redesign the winter cover for the Nelson Algren Fountain in the Polish Triangle. Further details here; download the RFP.
Andrew Huff on Mon March 24 2008Arts/Architecture 

TV-less
Threadless launched Threadless TV, a new weekly video show.
Andrew Huff on Mon March 24 2008Found on the Web 

But I'm Already Eating Ramen
Chicagoans will probably spend an additional $260 on groceries this year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau, thanks to rising prices industry-wide. Just more good news to start your week.
Lindsay Muscato on Mon March 24 2008In the News 

'The Hat' is Back
Former Chicago aldermanic legend Dorothy Tillman resurfaced over the weekend at a speaking engagement in Gary, Ind. to promote her new book, Hang Onto Your Hats: A Pictorial Journey of Dorothy Wright Tillman. Yes, she was wearing a hat.
Ken Green on Mon March 24 2008City Life/Cultural 

Chicago Lawyer to Defend Detroit Mayor
Chicago litigator Dan Webb has been named as the lead defense attorney in the case of Detroit mayor Kwame Kilpatrick, who was charged with perjury, obstruction of justice and official misconduct this morning in connection with a whistleblower lawsuit by former Detroit cops who uncovered Kilpatrick's affair with his former chief of staff Christine Beatty.
Robyn Nisi on Mon March 24 2008Politics/Activism 

But What About The Litterbugs?
The CTA has successfully sent a 24-year old to jail for two years for spray painting the outside of an El car back in December. I think vandalism sucks and all, but couldn't time and money have been better spent hiring some cleaning crews for the inside of the cars instead?
Anne Holub on Mon March 24 2008Transportation 

Chicago in One Take
An unusual movie begins shooting in Chicago today. The thriller Helix is set to be filmed in ONE TAKE beginning today, with several locations around town scheduled to be shut down to accomodate the unusual endeavor.
Ken Green on Mon March 24 2008Film 

But the Schedule is So Accurate
CTA will be soon be unveiling the selected bus routes that will have GPS tracking ability, with riders able to track routes online by April 7. ChicagoBus.org already has a list of the majority of the routes on hand, among them the Western 49/x49 line.
Robyn Nisi on Mon March 24 2008Transportation 

More Then & Now
Following in our footsteps, Joe M500 recreated several more shots from the Charles W. Cushman Photograph Collection.
Andrew Huff on Mon March 24 2008Photography 

The Trials and Tribulations of a TV Host
Padma Lakshmi, host of everyone's favorite reality television chef competition, apparently has a dangerous job. Also, "out of principle," she won't say "pack your knives and go" to people on the street. So, um, don't ask her to say that when you see her walking around town.
David Schalliol on Mon March 24 2008Radio/TV 

A Different Kind of Blood
Six members of Catholic Schoolgirls Against the War protested the Iraq war during the Holy Name Cathedral's Easter Mass today.
David Schalliol on Sun March 23 2008Politics/Activism 

Illinois-Shaped Corn Flake Sells on E-Bay
... for $1350!
Shaz Rasul on Sun March 23 2008Stuff 

New Moms, No Homes
So many people complain about the existence of teen mothers, but New Moms has been doing something about it. Until this last week, they've been housing about 20 new mothers and their young children, but a fire destroyed their facility and now those moms are in temporary housing. They're always looking for donations, but now would be a great time to help with a donation of $25, or more. (Hat tip to Veronica.)
Cinnamon Cooper on Sat March 22 2008Found on the Web 

Feathery Fun
Chicago's Pillow Fight Club celebrated International Pillow Fight Day today with a mass flying-featherfest in front of the Art Institute of Chicago on S. Michigan. If you didn't catch it, here are some photos. (Nice to see white stuff that isn't sleet or snow falling from the sky, isn't it?)
Lauri Apple on Sat March 22 2008Offbeat/Misc. Events 

Big Brother Google is Watching
I wonder what's going on here at 3912 S. Vincennes Ave.? UPDATE: Google has taken the scene down; Gawker has the screenshots.
Naz Hamid on Sat March 22 2008Found on the Web 

This Ball Is a Seed Bomb
Despite the recent snizzle storms, spring is here, and it's time to plant stuff. Even if you lack a lawn, you can still get into the gardening spirit by "seed bombing" your nearest vacant lot. This video, shot in Pilsen by locals Fresh Cut Media, provides a concise how-to and tips on the latest trend in guerrilla gardening. Seed bombs away ...
Lauri Apple on Sat March 22 2008City Life/Cultural 

Hothouse in the Viaduct
The Hothouse announced today that all of its April shows will be performed at the Viaduct Theater, after being evicted from its space on Balbo last year. It's yet another odd chapter in the historically volatile music venue. Read the press release on A/C.
Andrew Huff on Fri March 21 2008Music/Clubs 

What Might Have Been
Lee Bey presents some fascinating, unrealized plans for the South Loop and the Cook County/City Hall building in the current Chicago Journal issue. As always, you can check out the Emporis unbuilt high-rise section for more crushed dreams.
David Schalliol on Fri March 21 2008Arts/Architecture 

Save Polaroid!
Last month the Polaroid Corporation announced that it would stop making instant film at the end of 2008. In response to the news, the Save Polaroid campaign was launched to help find a manufacturer willing to produce the film. There's also a Flickr group, not to mention our very own Polariod shots. Power to the people!
Karyn Dossinger on Fri March 21 2008Found on the Web 

Funniest Weather Word Ever
"Snizzle."
Andrew Huff on Fri March 21 2008In the News 

100 Reasons
Why this will be the year for the Cubs.
Andrew Huff on Fri March 21 2008Sports/Recreation 

America's Drive-In Coming to Chicago
Good news for you fans of Sonic drive-in restaurants; there are plans afoot to open the first Chicago area location in Aurora.
Jim Allenspach on Fri March 21 2008Eating/Drinking 

The Sagacious Don Guillote
Despite the snow on the ground, Baseball's Opening Day (the great ritual of spring) is only ten days away! Southsiders can get in the mood by catching up with Carl Skanberg's "Palehose8: An Illustrated History of Sagacious Don Guillote."
Shaz Rasul on Fri March 21 2008Sports/Recreation 

Getting Harder to Get Here
...by plane, anyway. A week after they started flying to Gary-Chicago, SkyBus Airlines cut its service to Greensboro, NC (its only service) in half. Not to be outdone, AirTran is stopping flying between Midway and Minneapolis on May 5.
Andrew Huff on Fri March 21 2008Transportation 

Easter Just Got Sweeter
Easter memories and Polish traditions are remembered in this week's Drive-Thru feature.
Robyn Nisi on Thu March 20 2008Eating/Drinking 

Record Chirp
The WLUW Record Fair is now the Chicago Independent Radio Project (CHIRP) Record Fair, and it's just a couple weeks away. Get your turntables ready.
Andrew Huff on Thu March 20 2008Music/Clubs 

Carbon Emissions Grant Awarded to the City
Unfortunately, it's for $52,000, enough to reduce the emissions of 13 garbage trucks, among who-knows-how-many diesel trucks in the city's fleet. Well, every little bit helps!
David Schalliol on Thu March 20 2008Outdoors/Environment 

The Sun-Times Video Contest Winner Is...
...a Tribune employee. The 22-year-old intern reimagined "We're Not Gonna Take It" in a video urging Sam Zell not to sell the naming rights of Wrigley Field.
Mark Byrne on Thu March 20 2008In the News 

Who is the Colonel?
Is the Trib really behind ColonelTribune?
Naz Hamid on Thu March 20 2008Found on the Web 

Mythical Mystery Museum Tour
It's nowhere near Halloween, but you could fashion your own "paranormal" museum tour right now. Start at the Field Museum, where "Mythic Creatures" await, then head down to the National Museum of Mexican Art, where Chupacabras lurk. For extra credit, visit the International Museum of Surgical Science to creep yourself out with actual medical history.
Andrew Huff on Thu March 20 2008Offbeat/Misc. Events 

"Sort of Like the City's CBGB"
The Sun-Times takes notice of Cal's.
Andrew Huff on Thu March 20 2008Music/Clubs 

Cooking Like Animals for Humans
Tonight's Top Chef: a visit to the Green City Market (which reopens May 14!), animal diets, and flower centerpieces. Read the full recap at Drive-Thru.
Robyn Nisi on Wed March 19 2008Eating/Drinking 

Bought a Calder Print Lately?
Two Northbrook men are among seven arrested in a bust of counterfeit art rings that sold thousands of counterfeit pieces to art buyers around the world.
David Schalliol on Wed March 19 2008Arts/Architecture 

Chubby Bunnies, Etc.
Some of the Brookfield Zoo's animals are turning into fatties, so the keepers have decided to put them all on a Weight Watchers points-system type diet. What on earth happens at those support meetings?
Mr. Dan Kelly on Wed March 19 2008In the News 

A Lesson in Numbers for CPS
A report by Catalyst Chicago finds that the Chicago Public School's faulty enrollment projections are leaving principals with a cash crunch/teacher shortage.
Ken Green on Wed March 19 2008Schools/Education 

Gapers Block, Twitterized
Are you on Twitter? If so, start following us. It's mostly a feed of Merge right now, but we throw some bits from other sections in there too, and you never know when something special might pop up.
Andrew Huff on Wed March 19 2008Gapers 

Burt's Reopening. No Joke.
So, as soon as I grew anxious about beloved Burt's Place being closed due to illness (turns out Burt was undergoing triple bypass surgery!), the word is out at LTH Forum that the pizza destination in Morton Grove will re-open to the public on April 2 (with a special LTH Forum/Roadfood.com RSVP-only night on April 1). (Thanks, Dan!)
Anne Holub on Wed March 19 2008Eating/Drinking 

Homeless Vets
When the troops finally do get sent home, will there be a place for them to live?
Andrew Huff on Wed March 19 2008In the News 

The Morning After
The New York Times gets Chicagoans' reactions to Barack Obama's instantly-legendary speech on race in America.
Ken Green on Wed March 19 2008In the News 

Ravinia Lineup Announced
Check out the Ravinia Festival website for the 2008 season lineup. Scheduled acts include Feist and...The Backstreet Boys? Yep. Tickets go on sale April 17.
Karyn Dossinger on Wed March 19 2008Music/Clubs 

Bursting Fantastical Bubbles
The Field Museum's new exhibit "Mythic Creatures: Dragons, Unicorns & Mermaids" proposes zoological origins of the world's storied beasties. Cyclops? Just a pygmy elephant. More debunking in the Trib.
Drew Myler on Wed March 19 2008City Life/Cultural 

Book Club: The Kept Man
Head on over to the Book Club page for our review of Jami Attenberg's compelling second book, The Kept Man. Sure, it's a love story, but not the kind where the girl gets the guy and everything all works out in the end. Sometimes, that's just the kind of story you need.
Veronica Bond on Wed March 19 2008Books/Authors 

Once Upon a School
Famed author Dave Eggers, the inspiration behind 826CHI, was one of the recipients of a 2008 TED Prize. His wish was for more people to become engaged with their local public schools, and they've launched Once Upon a School to help make this happen.
Shaz Rasul on Wed March 19 2008Schools/Education 

I'm #1, For a Price
If you're planning to ride in the May 25 Bike the Drive event, a few Ebay bids began today to buy Bibs #1 and #2 and to select your own unique bib number; the proceeds benefit the Chicagoland Bicycle Federation. The auctions end March 28.
Robyn Nisi on Wed March 19 2008Sports/Recreation 

Give the Buttons a Haircut
I've always been a fan of Busy Beaver's collateral branding; glad I'm not the only one.
Andrew Huff on Tue March 18 2008Business/Shopping 

Wither Wilson Yard?
Vacant Lot Magazine takes a look at Wilson Yard, the 5-acre plot of now-vacant land next to the CTA tracks between Wilson and Montrose. [via]
Andrew Huff on Tue March 18 2008City Life/Cultural 

Life After 'The Co-Op'
After the rumbling has died down, a former Hyde Park Co-Op Market shopper gives a (early) review of its replacement: Treasure Island.
Ken Green on Tue March 18 2008City Life/Cultural 

Commodity Exchanges, A Timeline
Starting with the establishment of the Chicago Board of Trade in 1848, Reuters walks us through commodity exchange history.
David Schalliol on Tue March 18 2008Business/Shopping 

I Am Hip Hop
There's an indie documentary being made about Chicago's hip hop scene, and a whole bunch of raw footage can be seen on YouTube.
Andrew Huff on Tue March 18 2008Music/Clubs 

Guilt-Free Electronics Disposal
A new pilot program from the U.S. Postal Service offers Chicago residents free envelopes for recycling small electronics and inkjet cartridges. "Small" means items such as PDA's, digital cameras and MP3 players; you'll have to go elsewhere to recycle that Atari 2600 you've had in your closet since 1984.
Karyn Dossinger on Tue March 18 2008Outdoors/Environment 

Sonic Booming in Aurora
Those ubiquitous Sonic hamburger commericals may finally have some relevance to the Chicago area when the company opens their first regional outlet in Aurora. All of which mean the two guys in the commercials, Chicago improv giants TJ Jagodowski and Peter Grosz, may finally be able to purchase some of the food they've been shilling.
Ken Green on Tue March 18 2008Business/Shopping 

Looking for Some Terra Cotta Eagles?
Architectural Artifacts and Urban Remains are selling salvaged pieces of art and equipment from the recently demolished Westinghouse Career Academy and the former Cook County Hospital. Dump Site ponders the ethics of selling salvaged items, but we can all breathe easily: at least these items weren't given the Lee Plaza Treatment.
Robyn Nisi on Tue March 18 2008City Life/Cultural 

What To Read Next
The spring 2008 selection for One Book, One Chicago: Raymond Chandler's The Long Goodbye.
Jim Allenspach on Mon March 17 2008Books/Authors 

Parking Spaces I Have Loved
Which Chicagoland parking garages are most notable?
Andrew Huff on Mon March 17 2008Weblogs 

"Gran' ol' river! Onhealthy, says ye?"
ClusterFlock casts a sideways look at the Chicago Sanitary & Ship Canal on this fine St. Paddy's Day.
Andrew Huff on Mon March 17 2008History 

City of Lights
Here's a beautiful view of the city from above, at night. (We featured a view from the north in Rearview awhile back.)
Andrew Huff on Mon March 17 2008Photography 

Senior Service
Wake Great Uncle Billy: Free rides for seniors began today on the CTA. Get the details on the program here.
Ken Green on Mon March 17 2008Transportation 

Breaking the Mold
The New York Times profiles Capers C. Funnye, Jr., the first African-American member of the Chicago Board of Rabbis and head of the Southwest Side's Beth Shalom B'Nai Zaken Ethiopian Hebrew Congregation.
Ken Green on Mon March 17 2008Religion/Spirituality 

iTrib
The Tribune's website is now optimized for iPhone. (How long do you think it'll take for the Sun-Times to follow suit?)
Andrew Huff on Mon March 17 2008Print/Magazines 

Loving Chicago
Hey, Love, Chicago is back, now as an online-only zine about the city's music, food and indie culture.
Andrew Huff on Mon March 17 2008Found on the Web 

Upwards and Onwards!
In what is clearly the most important sporting contest of the year, Chicagoan Jesse Lucas Berg won Seattle's Big Climb.
David Schalliol on Mon March 17 2008Sports/Recreation 

S₂U₃Re₄ and Be₂Ga₄Ra₃
What makes the Chicago River green for St. Patrick's Day? No, it's not ground-up leprechauns. It's a vegetable-based dye. In the early days though it was a substance called Fluorescein.
Mr. Dan Kelly on Sun March 16 2008Stuff 

Know Your Strategists
Political strategist David Axelrod is key to the Obama campaign -- as well as the campaigns of ComEd, Cablevision and AT&T.
Andrew Huff on Sun March 16 2008Politics/Activism 

Burt's Place Temporarily Closed
Driving up to Chicagoland pizza favorite Burt's Place last night, my heart nearly stopped when I noticed that the lights were out. Turns out that Burt is getting a "routine medical procedure" and has locked up the place until he's feeling better, probably for a few more weeks. LTH Forum has the skinny, and I'm lighting a candle for Burt.
Anne Holub on Sun March 16 2008Eating/Drinking 

St. Paddy's Pics
If you couldn't make it to the St. Patrick's Day Parade downtown today, here's some pics.
Lauri Apple on Sat March 15 2008City Life/Cultural 

A Long Time Coming, But a Bit Excessive
Obama sat down with the Tribune editorial board on Friday to flesh out the specifics of his relationship with Tony Rezko. The resulting coverage includes an article, an editorial, a column by John Kass and the transcript of the entire session, in case you've got some time on your hands this weekend.
Mark Byrne on Sat March 15 2008Politics/Activism 

Heading South
The Reader's profile of the South Loop is a great introduction to the neighborhood.
Andrew Huff on Fri March 14 2008City Life/Cultural 

A Boarding School Without a Madeline in Sight
CPS is now considering public boarding schools for disadvantaged students.
David Schalliol on Fri March 14 2008Schools/Education 

Chef Quiz
How well do you know Chicago's top chefs? Thrillist has put together an excellent quiz, and the prizes aren't half bad either.
Andrew Huff on Fri March 14 2008Eating/Drinking 

CHA Coming To Terms?
It's not good enough for the mayor's office, but term limits may be coming to the Chicago Housing Authority, which is reportedly looking at a plan to limit the amount of time residents can stay in public housing.
Ken Green on Fri March 14 2008In the News 

A Lighter Wallet = A Happier Eater?
This week's Drive-Thru feature gives the critical eye to dining experiences from Chicago Restaurant Week.
Robyn Nisi on Fri March 14 2008Eating/Drinking 

How to Market a Building Internationally
Given that the Chicago Spire is a speculative building, there's the question of how to raise the funds. Apparently one way is to host exhibitions in a variety of cities, such as Dublin, Hong Kong and Singapore, about which this release was written.
David Schalliol on Fri March 14 2008Arts/Architecture 

One Blue "PC" Per Child
Engadget points us to the fact that Chicago-based nonprofit Innovations for Learning is supplying 500 Chicago elementary schools with their $50 Teachermate PC over the next two years. Go ahead, get one.
Dan X O'Neil on Thu March 13 2008Schools/Education 

A Dent in Their Plans
The marketing whizzes for the upcoming The Dark Knight (read: Batman) movie thought it would be a cool idea to promote the film's fictional district attorney Harvey Dent as a real candidate here in Chicago. The early returns weren't too good: police gave them the boot.
Ken Green on Thu March 13 2008Film 

Transmission's SXSW Tour Diaries
In case you were hankering for some inside takes on the famous (or infamous) SXSW Music Festival going on this week in Austin, TX, click on over to Transmission where we'll be sharing tour diaries from a few Chicago music types who've trucked down their records and amps and love of last calls to the Lone Star State. The first installment from The Hood Internet is up now.
Anne Holub on Thu March 13 2008Gapers 

Living in (Green) Style
West Town residents and Art Institute faculty members Frances Whitehead and James Elniski make the New York Times Home & Garden section today for their elegantly styled, green tech-tacular pad. The couple's home features photovoltaic and thermal panels, geothermal desuperheaters, dual-flush toilets and other enviro-sound amenities.
Lauri Apple on Thu March 13 2008In the News 

Interesting Logic
Steve Delahoyde and Schadenfreude have been examining the logic of the Clinton campaign.
Andrew Huff on Thu March 13 2008Politics/Activism 

Transmission Feature: School of Language
This week in Transmission, we sit down for an intimate chat with David Brewis of School of Language. His new album Sea From Shore has hit the shelves, and he'll be hitting the Empty Bottle tomorrow night.
Anne Holub on Thu March 13 2008Gapers 

It's Getting Cold; Prepare the Beet Juice!
One anti-ice solution Chicago and surrounding communities are using this year is mixing beet juice with salt. Unfortunately, while it helps cut down on the amount of salt used, it has its own problems.
David Schalliol on Thu March 13 2008Outdoors/Environment 

Good, I Hated Being Seen on the 54th/Cermak Blue Line Train
The CTA will be eliminating the Blue Line service to 54th/Cermak for six months beginning April 27, claiming that Pink Line service to the same terminus has gobbled up the rider share and made the 54th/Cermak Blue Line the least-used in the CTA network. Along with making several experimental bus lines (78, 170-174, 192) permanent additions to their schedule, CTA claims that it will increase operating hours and service on several bus lines, and up the Forest Park and O'Hare Blue Line train service as a result.
Robyn Nisi on Thu March 13 2008Transportation 

Top Chef Seen Through Drive-Thru Eyes
If you missed tonight's premiere of the Chicago edition of Top Chef, we have your recap ready in Drive-Thru.
Robyn Nisi on Thu March 13 2008Radio/TV 

Syphilis Really is Back
It looks like those "Syphilis is Back" advertisements all over the city are right. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention released a report in town yesterday that confirms the trend for the seventh straight year.
David Schalliol on Thu March 13 2008Health/Fitness 

Improve Clybourn Corridor Transit
Speak up to improve access to transit, shopping and jobs. An initiative of the City of Chicago's Department of Planning and Development asks Clybourn Corridor residents for their thoughts in a March 26 meeting or an online questionnaire.
Chris Brunn on Wed March 12 2008City Life/Cultural 

Bike Safety for Motorists: Now Required.
The City of Chicago's new Bicycle Safety Ordinance now requires motorists to take bicycle safety seriously. Mayor Daley, AAA Chicago, and the Chicagoland Bicycle Federation supported the move.
Chris Brunn on Wed March 12 2008In the News 

Chicken and Waffles
Word on the street is that Rosscoe's Chicken and Waffles is finally open in Bronzeville. (Note the spelling: it's an imitator, not another branch of the famous LA site.)
Brian Sobolak on Wed March 12 2008Eating/Drinking 

Giving Kanye a Hand
A digital tribute to Kanye West and Daft Punk's "Stronger."
Mr. Dan Kelly on Wed March 12 2008Music/Clubs 

Good Design on the Cheap
The NY Times sings high praise for the relatively new and inexpensive buildings designed for the Hyde Park Art Center and the Spertus Institute of Jewish Studies. [Thanks, Jessica!]
David Schalliol on Wed March 12 2008Arts/Architecture 

Go Undercover for the CTA
The CTA is recruiting riders for its Mystery Shopper program. Good observational skills are required; trench coats and spy glasses are optional.
Karyn Dossinger on Wed March 12 2008Transportation 

Deliver Me This
Just last night, I was wishing for someone to run to the store for me, and now, conveniently enough, there might just be a new addition to my speed dial. If it's late, and you've got a case of the lazies, or maybe you're just in no condition to travel, try NightOwl Deliveries. They'll deliver, for a small fee, from their growing list of participating restaurants and convenience stores. [via Daily Candy]
Anne Holub on Wed March 12 2008Eating/Drinking 

Deep Dish in the Lime Light
Featured on Top Chef tonight: Chicago's "great food tradition!!" And...molecular gastronomy.
Jaime Calder on Wed March 12 2008Radio/TV 

Book Club: Middlesex
The GB Book Club's selection for April is the Pulitzer Prize winning Middlesex by Jeffrey Eugenides. Join us as we delve into three generations of Stephanides family history that ends with Calliope, born a girl in 1960, and Cal, reborn a boy fourteen years later. It is a grand story of gender, identity and fate and what all of these mean for one person. Read the introduction on the Book Club page now and join us on April 14 for our discussion at the Book Cellar. New members are always welcome.
Veronica Bond on Wed March 12 2008Books/Authors 

A Director's Dark Vision
The New York Times tells us how Dark Knight director Christopher Nolan crafted his vision for the film, how "the messiness of reality can't be faked" and how cool it was to shut down Chicago streets on command.
Lindsay Muscato on Tue March 11 2008Film 

Pushing All the Buttons
School of the Art Institute faculty member Wafaa Bilal's controversial video game/art installation "Virtual Jihad," in which viewers are supposed to kill U.S. soldiers, penetrate a bunker and assassinate President Bush, has been pulled from an exhibit by a Troy, N.Y. university. Bilal, born in Iraq, gives his side of the story on his website.
Ken Green on Tue March 11 2008Arts/Architecture 

Foreclosure Lawsuits? 95. Years? 3.
The Sterling Private Residences can now claim the title of reigning Chicago Foreclosure King. Way to go! (If you are a premium subscriber to Crain's, you can read the full article.)
David Schalliol on Tue March 11 2008Business/Shopping 

Chicago as Beacon of Hope for ... South Africa?
That's right, at least one commentator thinks we can be a model for reforming South Africa's corruption.
David Schalliol on Tue March 11 2008Politics/Activism 

The Kids Are Alright
The Sun-Times' Jim DeRogatis profiles the city's newest upstart rock clubs, Reggie's and the (soon-to-reopen) Bottom Lounge, whom he says are giving the local music scene a much-needed kick in the pants.
Ken Green on Tue March 11 2008Music/Clubs 

A Century of Green
The Garfield Park Conservatory is celebrating 100 years of bringing botanical loveliness to Chicago with a yearlong series of special exhibits and events, many of which are free to the public. Check out the Conservatory website for more details.
Karyn Dossinger on Tue March 11 2008City Life/Cultural 

Buy Our Newspaper ... I Mean, What an Interesting Study!
Reuters helps newspapers boost sales with a story about a flu pandemic study that used Chicago as a model. Oh-so-surprisingly, flu contagion reduction strategies would not be "like a snow day."
David Schalliol on Tue March 11 2008Health/Fitness 

Mrs. Client-10 is Gonna Be *Pissed*
We all know who Client -9 is, but who is Chicago's own Client-10?
Robyn Nisi on Mon March 10 2008In the News 

Black Mark for Blackstone
Don't count Tribune architecture expert Blair Kamin among the biggest fans of the newly rennovated Blackstone. While he applauds the effort, he manges to use words like "garish," "atrocious," "screeching," "psychodelic," "disconcerting tension," "jolting," "bizzare" and "grotesquely" in his review.
Ken Green on Mon March 10 2008Arts/Architecture 

Book Club Meeting Tonight
Come one, come all, to The Book Cellar tonight for the March meeting of the Gapers Block Book Club. We will be talking about Fire Sale by Sara Paretsky. The discussion begins at 7:30pm, and new members are always welcome.
Alice Maggio on Mon March 10 2008Gapers 

Rezko and Obama: the Basics
The AP's written up a primer on Tony Rezko, Barack Obama and what it all means (and doesn't).
David Schalliol on Mon March 10 2008Politics/Activism 

Rushing to Recovery
U.S. Rep. Bobby Rush, whose district stretches from Bronzeville to Tinley Park, had a cancerous tumor removed from his salivary gland on March 1 and will spend the next few weeks recuperating.
Lauri Apple on Mon March 10 2008Politics/Activism 

CTA's Gum Busters
As Ron Huberman says, "Gum is the nemesis of transit."
David Schalliol on Mon March 10 2008