Watering the City
Chicago Public Radio's Chicago Matters series takes a look at our water system, and how it gets from Lake Michigan to our faucet.
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Outdoors/Environment
A Green Home Grows in Oak Park
Jason and Jennifer La Fleur bought a turn-of-the-century bungalow in Oak Park and began renovating with all green building materials, including soy foam insulation and toxin-free paint. Their DIY spirit and commitment to green have already earned them spots on the Today Show and This Old House -- follow along (and steal their ideas) at their blog, Humphrey House.
Lassoing the Great Lakes
The Weiszes just got back from a 17 day loop of the Great Lakes, which they conscientiously documented with restaurant reviews, photographs and tales from the road. If you'd like more reading about looping the Great Lakes, you may want to check out Ted McClelland's The Third Coast, which was excerpted in Detour.
In Case You Didn't Notice...
it rained last night. Here's a taste of the downpour.
Wet Turtle
Grab a plastic tarp and head to the Pritzker Pavilion in Millennium Park for lunch today, and you'll be treated to a free concert by Tortoise. Details in Slowdown.
Snacking on Shrubbery
Nance Klehm teaches people about the edible plants growing throughout the city.
Don't Go In the Water
Some of our beaches are among the worst in the country.
Sum of a Beach
The Sun-Times gives a summary of the best beaches in the city. Funny, none of their capsule assessments mention anything about actually getting into the water.
Driving Across the US with Vegetable Oil
The Radical Futures Road Tour left Chicago, made the truck conversion and is now burning vegetable oil. Follow the tour on their site, or if you're not into checking websites regularly (GB, excluded, of course), you can also subscribe to email updates.
Path of Destruction
Prompted by a Red Eye story on the lakefront bike path congestion, architecture critic Blair Kamin resurrects a 1998 column of his which shows that nothing much has changed. On your left...
Chicago's 'Hidden' Lakefront
The Washington Post gushes about our miles of beaches and advises tourists to start taking more advantage of them. Gee, thanks Washington Post.
Seed Bombing Primer
Turn small patches of your 'hood into havens for herbs and wildflowers with this how-to guide on seed bombing in Chicago.
Canoe For Science
Participate in a study about the effects of outdoor exercise on your health -- by joining a canoe trip led by Friends of the Chicago River. No excuses. It's for science.
Airplane Fuel Finds New Home ... in the Lake
On Monday, an Air Nippon jet dropped about 1,450 gallons of its fuel into Lake Michigan. The Trib asks about the event and what's happening to the fuel.
Jail Birds
There's a family of peregrine falcons living on the Metropolitan Correctional Center. (Thanks, Dubi!)
Are There AARP Cards For Apes?
Keo the ape turns 50 today and the Lincoln Park Zoo is throwing a party for its elder statesman, one of the two oldest male zoo chimps in North America. If you have time, go over to the Regenstein Center for African Apes and show him some monkey love... um, or something like that.
Get Outta Town
Time Out has a few beach-bound road trip suggestions for you this weekend. On the other hand, you might prefer camping along the area's rail trails.
Summer Roadtrip on One Tank
Shore Magazine gives a helpful rundown of "one-tank" trips to the coast of Michigan. If you're driving a Hummer, of course, adjust accordingly.
Another Wildlife Alert
Um, but this time it's blackbirds?
Another Green Schools Initiative
Well, for Chicago it's a green school initiative, but some media companies are teaming up to fund some green modifications for schools in Chicago, Miami and San Francisco.
Emerald City
The emerald ash borer has entered the city. Hide your trees.
Urban(ish) Wildlife
If you're interested in seeing more wildlife than the cougars in a Lincoln Park bar, Time Out has a mini-guide to unusual animals in the Chicago region and offers some tips for seeing them.
Our Other Waterfront Parks
Looking for a more secluded spot to picnic near the water? Check out some of the city's riverfront parks.
Eco-bridge!
Adrian Smith + Gordon Gill Architecture is shopping around a bold proposal for the lakefront.
Alternative Fuel in Practice
The Sun-Times profiles Elmhurst resident Maureen Sullivan, who runs her car off of vegetable oil.
Eating from the Urban Earth
In a less popularized form of urban foraging, Nance Klehm seeks food and medicine from plants along railroad tracks and other urban oases.
Seiche Alert
It may not be a tornado, but there's an alert today for my favorite area weather emergency: a seiche.
City of Big Thinkers
Business Week's Mike Nussbaum calls Chicago "the most innovative big city in America".
Find Any Crystal Skulls Yet?
Undergrads from the University of Chicago have launched the first archeological dig of the site of the 1893 Chicago World's Fair, aka the "White City." The students are following in the footsteps of another famous U of C archeologist who's been in the news a lot lately.
Not Quite the Polar Bear Club
It's time to dust off the sun block, towels and, um, wet suits, because Chicago beaches officially open tomorrow. Enjoy that 58 degree water!
Ouch.
Flickr user BlueFairlane demonstrates why it's important to wear a helmet when cycling ... and why cars drivers need to watch what they're doing.
$600,000. Garbage. Boat. With. Arms.
That's right, the Scavenger 2000 has arrived.
Don't Flush 'em!
It's tempting to throw your old scripts into the bin or the toilet. But in response to recent RX-laden water test results, the City of Chicago wants you to dump your Demerol or toss your Tri-Cyclen into secured receptacles at five area police stations, as well as at neighborhood pick-ups. The City's plan is awaiting federal approval, so don't take your drugs in just yet. [Via]
Hyde Park Goes Wild
As if wild parakeets weren't enough, Hyde Park now is home to a band of feral cats who have set up shop in an alley near East 62nd Street. No reports of cougars in the HP, though... yet.
No Comprehensive Rule
Yesterday, aldermen stopped far short of requiring all Chicago retailers to accept plastic bags for recycling. The compromise required retailers who derive 25% of their gross sales from food or pharmaceuticals to offer plastic-bag recycling. Check out the Sun-Times coverage of this story for the dismayed perspective of the Chicago Recycling Commission's Mike Nowak.
Blue Bags Go Out With the Trash
After thirteen years and heaps of criticism, Chicago will can the blue bag recycling program this summer, with plans to expand the blue cart program city-wide by 2011.
Avoiding the "gloomy underground sarcophagus"
Obviously displeased with the Chicago Children's Museum's proposed new home in Grant Park, the Trib released its fifth alternative location for the museum.
This Mother’s Day, Make Mom Proud …
And, more importantly, show up your siblings, by eschewing the half-wilted, unsustainably harvested bunch of red carnations you always get her, in favor of a beautiful card showcasing Chicago’s community gardens. Your $25 donation to NeighborSpace, a nonprofit urban land trust that protects many of Chicago’s urban oases, gets Mom the card and an invitation to a fall tour of city gardens. Slackers, take note: card orders must be received by Tuesday, May 6, at 10 a.m.
Chicago Stolen Bike Registry
If you haven't been to the Chicago Stolen Bike Registry in a while, it's worth visiting even if you haven't lost a bike. While you're there, check out the stolen bike statistics and theft map to help you know what to look out for and where to be particularly careful. Given 99.34% of the listed thefts were unrecovered, being careful is probably the way to go.
Let's Hang in Our Earth-Friendly Alleyway Tonight
The New York Times gave props to Chicago in its Green Issue for its Green Alleys ongoing program to resurface the city’s alleyways with environmentally friendly materials such as permeable asphalt and light-reflecting concrete.
Another Bicyclist Death
In another tragic car-bicycle accident, 22 year-old Tyler Fabeck was struck and killed early Sunday morning.
Biking the City
It's nice out; how 'bout a bike tour?
Rainforests, LUMA and The Cosmic Serpent
Anthropologist Jeremy Narby, author of The Cosmic Serpent, will speak at LUMA today as part of their spring exhibition, Manifest Destiny/Manifest Responsibility. BYOAyahuasca.
Nail That Cougar
Everyone's all kerfuffle about the recent cougar sightings (no, not that kind) in North Chicago. Yesterday, Wilmette residents spotted the big cat near the Metra station.
Step Away From The Bird Feeder!
A suburban couple ran "a-fowl" of the law when they tried to provided sustenance for their fine feathered friends. One of the offenders compared the situation unfavorably to Communist Russia.
How Green Was My Parking Lot
The Illinois Sports Facilities Authority, owners of U.S. Cellular Field, recently unveiled their new eco-friendly parking lot, located at the ballpark. The bricks used allow for fast absorption of water back into the earth. Now if we could just wrap our heads around the concept of thousands of gas-guzzling cars being driven to an environmentally-friendly parking lot.
Used Electronics Recycling Made Easy
Chicago is set to be a pilot city in a new USPS electronics recycling program.
Stick It Where the Sun Don't Shine
The CTA purchased a Big Belly solar-powered compacting trash can as part of its green initiatives -- and then installed it in the Red Line station at State and Lake, 30 feet underground. (Thanks, Tamara!)
I Fish, You Fish?
If the latest news that the Lake Michigan perch population may be on the rebound has got you considering casting a line, you should take a walk thru a few great online resources first. Try iFishIllinois for official information on seasons and permits and don't forget the power of the local fishing community at ChicagolandFishing.com.
Recycle for Sure
Don't trust the City's blue bag program? Recycle confidently with Resource Center Chicago, which has three drop-off spots on the North Side. (Via Mike in Fuel.)
Love Your Beach
You've lounged in the sun, you've lunged for that volleyball -- now show local beaches how much you truly appreciate them. The Alliance for the Great Lakes offers training in how you can join their Adopt-a-Beach volunteer program, starting April 19th.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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 ...
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!
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.
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.
Rooftop Sprouting
The Gary Comer Youth Center's 8,600-square-foot rooftop garden is coming into its own.
A $15 Billion Problem
In response to a report issued by two non-profits, Mayor Daley is teaming up with the mayors of other Great Lakes cities to call for more federal funding to protect the five lakes.
Freeze, Thaw, Freeze, Thaw, Ouch
NPR shares Chicago's scourge with the nation: 250,000 potholes.
Dark Side of the Moon
It's a little repetitive, but here's a sampling of photos of the lunar eclipse over Chicago.
We're Number Nine!
Chicago makes Popular Science's America's 50 Greenest Cities list.
Shorter than Earth Day, it's Earth Hour!
Green Exchange is teaming up with WWF to promote Chicago Earth Hour activities.
Goodnight Moon
Want to see something cool tomorrow night? It's lunar eclipse time! Starting at 7:43pm on Wednesday, you can watch the moon turn groovy shades of orange and red before fading to black at 9:01pm. This will be the last total lunar eclipse visible in North America until December 2010, so bundle up, bring a hot drink and watch the planetary system do its thing.
Urbs in Horto = Energy Savings
The Wall Street Journal took a look at how nine cities, including Chicago, are using novel methods to conserve energy.
South Side Parakeets are Tougher...
Despite the blinding snowstorms and below zero temperatures of late, the famed Hyde Park parakeets are hanging tough after more than 30 years in the area. However, a University of Chicago professor who is delivering a lecture on the birds on February 20 says this winter was expecially rough and may thin out their ranks a bit.
Swap-o-Rama-Rama Comes to Chicago
The legendary Swap-o-Rama-Rama -- part swap meet, part political statement, part DIY Project Runway -- finally hies itself to Chicago on March 29 at the AV-aerie, 2000 W. Fulton. Bring $20 and a bag of your cast-off clothes, linens, and other goodies, then raid other people's stuff and gussy it up with the sewing machines, silkscreens, and other supplies on the premises. There will also be workshops and a fashion show. What is Swap-o-Rama-Rama, you ask? Watch this.
Chicago's Newest Green Home
Starting May 8, you'll be able to swing by the Museum of Science and Industry and visit Smart Home: Green + Wired, a new exhibit featuring a 2,500 square-foot house.
One Tough Flock of Herons
Despite the presense of long-banned pesticides showing up their offspring, herons nesting along the Lake Calumet area are still going strong. So where are the banned pesticides coming from? Why the good ol' Chicago alewife, of course.
No Dented Cans
Botulism is killing thousands of birds on Lake Michigan. The culprit? Zebra mussels and gobies.
San Francisco Mayor Green-Poaches from Daley
San Francisco Mayor Gavin Newsom hired Astrid Haryati, formerly Chicago's Assistant to the Mayor for Green Initiatives to "make sure the greening of our urban landscape is not an afterthought but is central to all of our activities."
Recycle This
I saw several stacks of discarded holiday trees sitting while walking by several alleyways in my neighborhood tonight. Before you haul your tree to the garbage, think about a city-spondored opportunity to put your tree to good use this Saturday by participating in the "Turn Green into Blue" events at several city parks, where you can receive your choice of blue bags, a reuseable water bottle, or compact fluorescent bulbs in exchange for the tree (or a bag of recyclables).
Modular Housing of the Future
If you haven't checked it out already, you may want to swing by the Chicago Center for Green Technology and check out elementhouse, the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign entry in the 2007 Solar Decathlon.
Who'd Outlast Whom?
Alan Weisman, author of The World Without Us
Neglected Beauty
Rearview contributor and excellent photographer Carey Primeau launches a new photography site and portfolio. While I've seen my fair share of deserted and abandoned photography sites, Primeau really does elevate these photos to stunning. One of the more stellar sets has to be his Uptown Theater set, a building that has intrigued me for years. So good.
Green for the Holidays
Get in to the sustainable spirit of things this year with energy-efficient holiday lights. Save up to 90% of the energy used by traditional lights and get a whopping 50,000 hours of bulb life. You'll cough up a bit more cash, but the lights last longer while running up a smaller electric bill. Plus, Al Gore will thank you for it, and if that's not reason enough, everyone who's anyone is doing it. Available at Target, Lowe's and Costco, or buy through ComEd's online store and get $2 off each strand.
Chicago Landmarks Now Greener
CNET gives us a look at some Chicago landmarks that are greener than you'd think.
Battery Drive at DePaul
Do you practice eco-unfriendly, unhealthy battery disposal habits? Then repent for your sins and donate your used nickel, lead, alkaline, and lithium batteries to the Green Group tomorrow (that's Nov. 13) at the Student Center on DePaul University's Lincoln Park campus. The battery drive is a joint recycling effort with Columbia College. The donating lasts from 4-7pm, so stop by after work. For more info, call 847-971-3901.
Return of the Green Awards
Chicago Magazine will once again recognize local "groundbreakers in the areas of conservation and sustainability." Know anyone who fits the bill? Nominations are open until December 15th. Winners announced in April 2008.
Behind the Design: The Chicago Spire
Not quite the expose on Santiago Calatrava (also known for his work on the Milwaukee Art Museum), but Creative Review, a design magazine based in the UK, showcases the design work of Third Eye Design who did the collateral for The Chicago Spire. Even if you don't like the Spire itself, the accompanying literature praises our fair city.
Not Enough Spit in this Celestial "Snowball"
Coming unglued at a speed of 1000 mph, Comet 17P/Holmes will disintegrate in a highly visible spectacle for several weeks. (No word yet if Shia LaBeouf's career will follow suit.) The exploding comet, roughly 100 times the size of earth, can be seen by the naked eye in the northeastern night sky, and several local observatories are offering a closer look.
Sadie Hawkins' Day Race & Style Ride
The now annual Sadie Hawkins' Day Race & Style Ride is back again, November 10th. What is it? "Sadie Hawkins Day Race/Style Ride is an on-street, in-traffic, point-to-point bike adventure for couples or pairs... There are prizes for the fastest couple, fastest tandem team, fastest out of towners, best dressed, and more." Last year's inaugural event drew people from out of town, generated a ton of missed connections and suffice to say, there were a few couples that are still together to this day.
Film & Fashion Night with Nau
Nau, the outdoor atelier whose clothes are eco-friendly is hosting a Film & Fashion Night in the South Loop on Tuesday, November 7th from 8pm to midnight. There's going to be BMX Ballet, food and drink (first drink free or so we hear) and other festivities. Learn about sustainable economy! It's free if you download, print and bring this ticket. More details in Slowdown.
Outdoor Photography
The local Patagonia store is holding a photo contest. Local photographers are invited to submit a photo of themselves or family members doing active outdoor activities -- while wearing Patagonia clothing, of course. Three finalists will be selected to compete nationally for a trip for two to Vietnam. Bring your 4"x6" prints to the store by Oct. 31.
Gleaming the Kennedy
The Chicago Park District is proposing building a sweet skate park near the Kennedy at Logan Boulevard in Logan Square. The park will feature10 ramps, benches and a drinking fountain. The tag is nearly half a million, but it's a small price to pay for reviving that blighted strip while giving skaters a place to show off.
Yodel-ay-hee-hoooo!
Apparently a batch of activists from the Rainforest Action Network scaled the Chicago Board of Trade Building this morning and unfurled a large banner protesting the CBOT for its trading of palm oil and soy. (Update) Naturally, it's already been flickred.
Running with the (Heat) Devil
Today's LaSalle Bank Chicago Marathon will be a memorable one, as the unusually warm forecast is causing alternative preparations to be made by race officials to ensure the safety of the record 45,000 runners. Also, a number of CTA bus lines will be temporarily closed throughout the morning to accommodate the race route. Trains will be operating as usual. UPDATE: Despite precautions, one man died and 302 others were hospitalized as a result of participating in today's race.
Bloomingdale Trail Survey
If you have any interest into the Bloomingdale Trail-- "Chicago's Next Great Park"-- make your voice heard in the planning by completing their Community Visioning Survey. Your responses will be incorporated into a report that will be distributed to the City agencies that will ultimately design and build the Bloomingdale Trail.
Green Space, a Quarter at a Time
As we mentioned Monday, today is National Park(ing) Day! Head to Milwaukee Avenue, just east of Western, to visit several parking spaces turned temporary public parks. The Trust for Public Land is offering free info, cupcakes and even a wishing tree. (Thanks, Meghan!)
Future Perfect Almost Past
The Illinois Humanities' Council's series, Future Perfect: Conversations on the Meaning of Genetics -- which has staged panels and discussions throughout the city about genetic testing, stem cell research, and related topics over the past year -- wraps up next Tuesday night with a discussion of fairness and accessibility down at the DuSable Museum. Excerpts from the new Kartemquin documentary, Terra Incognita, will be shown. More details in Slowdown. If you've missed previous events in the series, you can catch up by watching the videos at the Illinois Channel, or listening at Chicago Amplified.
From the Heartland?
The Heartland Institute, a conservative Chicago think tank, is currently running advertisements asserting "global warming is not a crisis" featuring Czech president Vaclav Klaus. I'm sure that has nothing to do with the $800,000 in funding and executive assistance it's received from ExxonMobil in the last ten years, including $115,000 last year [pdf].
Is Chicago Bike-Friendly?
The Tribune sent a reporter and photographer along with two Chicagoland Bicycle Federation employees to ask the question in an article with video. Of course, they find out what most of us already know: cars mean trouble. Go ahead and take the poll, if you're so inclined.
Big & Green & Closing
You have till tomorrow to catch the very cool Big & Green exhibit at the Chicago Architecture Foundation, featuring 15 green building projects in Chicago or by local architects. Ugh, turns out the exhibit was from 2004. (Sorry, the pages included the date, not the year.)
Crazy (Not Lazy) Sunday
If you're planning to head to the lakefront tomorrow, be warned of two major events that may affect your plans. The Banco Popular Chicago Half Marathon will close Lakeshore Drive going south from the Bronzeville area to East 67th Street throughout the morning, with a post-race festival taking place in front of the Museum of Science and Industry. Cyclists from the Boulevard Lakefront Tour will be biking along the path as far south as Hyde Park, with their post-event fun taking place on the Midway Plaisance.
On the Fly
If you've ever been down Ravenswood near Wilson, you might have seen the rather large stickered and logoed truck with bright red, yellow and black graphics that say, "On the Fly." The Chicago Traveler has the scoop: On the Fly is a mobile bike mechanic shop. Joe Ebervein and Rich Kwaitkowski will go where you are to get you on the road again.
Green Scavenger Hunt
Foresight Design is sponsoring a green-themed urban scavenger hunt, Explorago. The event, to be held next month, will "broach environmental business practices, waste, pollution, alternative modes of transportation, green space, urban design and architecture, and much more."
New BP Ad Buy
Apparently seriously concerned about its public image, BP has taken to purchasing (regionally specific?) advertisements via google to tout its pledge to not increase discharge limits. This advertisement was embedded in a NYTimes.com article about the Maison de Verre.
Calling All LEEDers
Environmentally aware builders, architects, facility managers and other related folk will be pleased to know that Greenbuild 2007 will be held in Chicago this November. The show promises to address how greener construction and renovation techniques can tackle issues such as "climate change, water conservation, and improving human health." And if you're a student, volunteer and get in free.
Don't Go (to) BP-Amoco
A few weeks after Pearl Jam's little environmental ditty "Don't Go (to) BP-Amoco" at Lollapalooza, the oil giant pledged that it wouldn't increase the levels of pollution it dumps into Lake Michigan (from its perhaps expanding Whiting, Indiana plant).
Dark Knight x Brachs Candy Implosion!
The Dark Knight which has been filming in Chicago on and off for the past few months is doing something big. The Brachs Candy factory will be imploded on August the 29th August the 30th between 10:30am and noon. The implosion will be later added digitally into the film for a building explosion. Details here. Update: Note the date and time change. New details here.
Downed Trees Everywhere!
So, today's weather produced a great deal of rain and wind, causing many trees to shed debris and/or fall in neighborhoods all along the north side. Click here for some current shots from Logan Boulevard, which took a hit this afternoon. And here's a link to photos tagged "chicago" and "storm" on flickr.
Saving the Point or Missing It?
Hyde Park's Promontory Point is the subject of much preservationist activism in the face of the Park District's plans to replace the limestone steps and lake wall with concrete. Hyde Park Progress looks at the changes to the steps and general upkeep since the Park Districts' plans were put on hold.
More Bad News for the Lake
As if the recent announcement from BP weren't enough to get worked up about, Illinois and Chicago were just rated as having among the most polluted beaches in the country. Park District personnel remind us we do more testing than most places. Ok, so we're polluted and other places are too.
A Garden Sprouts
In East Garfield Park, at Maypole and California, a community garden is taking shape in a formerly vacant lot.
Lake Michigan Stories
Got a good story or photo involving Lake Michigan or another of the Great Lakes? HealthyLakes.org wants to hear/see it. They're running a photo and story contest through the end of August, with prizes awarded each month. (Thanks, Hugh!)
Columbia Goes Green
Sustainablog offers an interesting take on Columbia College's decision to revamp graduate programs in Architectural Studies and Interior Architecture that focus on sustainability. "Green is the mainstream," says Sustainablog's author.
Friday Mass
If recent talk of some riders wanting to disband the Chicago Critical Mass has you riled up, you may want to weigh in on the matter.
"Like a Big Family"
The Green Exchange, the proposed Logan Square environmental supercenter, is garnering serious national attention.
"Save Our Lake"
How pissed are you about the expansion of BP's Whiting Refinery? If you want to fight the increased dumping of ammonia and industrial sludge in Lake Michigan, join the Chicago Park District and the City of Chicago along the lakefront this weekend from 9 am to 1 pm to sign petitions or volunteer to recruit more signatures.
The Lake Effect
Now this is one city cause I can get behind. Chicago officials are exploring ways to fight an expansion of the BP refinery in Indiana which would put significantly more pollution into Lake Michigan.
Global Reduction
First there were the Cool Globes. Now there are Mini Cool Globes, basketball-sized globes designed by everyone from Sheryl Crow to Joe Lieberman. If you'd like to see them in person, head to the Wacker Lobby and the Jackson Pavilion of the Sears Tower.
When is it Time to do a Squirrel Necropsy?
When they're dying along the banks of Oak Lawn Lake.
Chicago, Coyotepolis
Our friendly neighborhood Quizno's coyote, Adrian, isn't alone as an urban explorer. Chicago coyote visits have increased from "perhaps a dozen" in the 1980s to 312 in the last three years.
Big Changes for the Lakefront?
In yet another public works project designed to win favor with the IOC (and area boaters), the Park District has released tentative plans to build three additional harbors. The Trib provides renderings.
The Mystery of the Anti-Weatherman
The National Weather Service has enlisted the help of the FBI to track down a person who is submitting bogus weather reports in Illinois and Wisconsin. The reports have caused the service to issue erroneous storm warnings. If you can't trust weather reports, what can you trust?
Turning the Alleys Green
NYC's Streets Blog summarizes a new pamphlet from the Chicago Department of Transportation: The Green Alleys Program [PDF]. Some interesting stuff in there.
Take the Express to Niki in the Garden
If you're interested in seeing the new Niki St. Phalle exhibit in Garfield Park (more than 30 playful sculptures by the noted artist are placed amidst gardens inside and outside the Conservatory building) but the thought of long waits for the west-bound Green Line discourage you, click here for details about new express trains running between Randolph and Wabash and Garfield Park Conservatory Saturdays and Sundays.
Not as Green as We Thought
Chicago Magazine has a nice feature dispelling a myth that has penetrated deep into our fair city. When it comes to city park space, we have the least of the "big nine", and third lowest of all 56 major cities.
ZIP Code Blue!
NU's Medill Reports blog alerts us to the results of the EPA's latest Toxic Release Inventory. To check your 'hood's Toxic Inventory with this handy ZIP-by-ZIP guide. Think you're so clean, Lincoln Park? Think again! The blog also looks at the City's top six most polluted codes.
Out of Exoskeleton, Into Belly
The cicadas are finally arriving, at least in some places (I haven't heard any yet). The Trib has a great, surprisingly creepy time-lapse video of cicadas molting, and Drive-Thru's own David Hammond and some friends are getting some press for a cicada dinner they've thrown. They'll be on the Jerry Agar show, WLS 890-AM, at around 9am this morning.
Mapping the Invasion
While not everyone is seeing cicadas, some Chicagoans are, and at least some observers are adding their input to this handy Cicada Emergence Map.
At the Drive-In
Whether you're looking for an anachronistic viewing experience or a cheap excuse to cop a feel, then you should check out some of Illinois' remaining drive-in movie theatres. There's the McHenry Outdoor Theatre the Cascade in West Chicago, the Skyview in Belleville and more.
Recycling Resources
If you're not lucky enough to live in one of those recycling bin pilot wards and if you hate the blue bag program, then you've got to go the extra mile to recycle. The Chicago Recycling Coalition helps you find places to recycle and donate stuff -- and also where you can acquire items for reuse.
Ethanol B.A.?
Treehugger reports that Illinois State University's trustees recently approved a new undergraduate degree in renewable energy, specializing in either actual power generation or public policy issues.
14,100 Gallons of Water Per Minute
Now that the Buckingham Fountain is going full blast, maybe you'd like to astound your friends with some related trivia. For example, it opened on May 26, 1927, and its computer's name is the "Honeywell Excel-Plus."
Farm Project
Did you know there's a small organic farm on the edge of Cabrini Green? It's possible you've even eaten its produce at one of the city's top restaurants. [via]
Bug Watching Tips
Wondering about the best place to watch the 17-year cicadas emerge from underground? The Tribune's gardening blog has some helpful tips. You might also want to check out Cicadamania.com, which has plenty of info about the impending onslaught, and this map from UofI.
Green Power in Hyde Park
A gang of undergrads at the U of C are building "an innovative wind turbine" with a grant from the student government. Follow their progress on their blog.
Honest Abe's Illinois Shenanigans
While Calgon may not take you away, Abraham Lincoln has you covered.
Petrillo Music Madness
The lineup for the Taste of Chicago musical performances has been announced. We'll all see each other at the Kenny Rogers show, I'm sure.
Get Out the Map
Now that it's finally nice, our hearts turn to vacation! Check out Ask Metafilter for some great ideas on where to go when you want to escape Chicago. Ideas include cheap hotels in Milwaukee, Taliesin and dunes up the yin-yang.
Give Away Your Glasses, Save the Earth
Recycling is good, but reusing is better. As part of Earth Month Chicago, area eyewear vendors are participating in a program--from today till next Sunday (6 May)--that collects donated eyeglasses for families in developing countries. So if you have some old specs you don't really need anymore, do a good deed and drop them off at your local LensCrafters, Pearle Vision, Sunglass Hut, Sears, or Target Optical.
Flora y Fauna
In today's Sun-Times, we learn about how to protect trees from the coming cicada swarms. Also, rats as big as cats!
Corn Oil vs. Eggs
The year's first volley of the epic human vs. seagull battle has been launched.
Looptopia!
This "dusk-to-dawn cultural and artistic spectacle" is all about hyping the life and leisure available in the Loop neighborhood. The seriously random schedule of events includes museum talks, light shows, walking tours and a whole lot more. (Beware the music on the Looptopia site, btw.)
Recycle Your Cell Phone, Save the Earth
You know you shouldn't just throw old cell phones in the trash, right? As part of Earth Month Chicago, area police stations are participating in a program--from today till next Sunday (29 April)--that collects used cell phones. The Verizon Hopeline Project will reprogram the phones for use as emergency phones by seniors and victims of domestic violence. So do a good deed: take that old phone to your local police station.
No. 10 in Renewable Energy
That's where we rank in SustainLane Government's recent survey of major cities. The Chicago Center for Green Technology thinks we should be number 1.
Adrian Runs Free
Flint Creek Wildlife Rehabilitation, the organization charged with returning "Adrian" the Quizno's coyote to the wild, blogged about his release. The photos are heartwarming. (Thanks, Dubi!)
NAU Open
The uber-hot outdoor clothing company Nau, which focuses on sustainable and ethical clothing and a new business model as well, is now open in Chicago. Not to mention the fact that their clothes don't look like the neo-hippie earth tones of typical outdoor equipment manufacturers — this stuff can be worn to a club after you're done climbing that rock face. The Chicago retail store (one of four across the country) opened this morning. Where are they? 2118 North Halsted.
Sunday Parkways Forum Discussion
This is a real-life flesh n' blood forum discussion about the proposed Sunday Parkways — a community effort to give communities safe spaces to interact with neighbors. Inspired by Columbia and Mexico, in essence they are traffic-free times on weekends and holidays for pedestrians and cyclists to interact on selected streets. This Wednesday, April 11th from 6:30 to 7:30pm at Richmond Hall in St. Sylvester Church, 2156 N. Richmond St.
More Cause for Vomit
No more need for a flask! Six Flags is now able to serve you a mixed drink along side your post-Hurricane Harbor nachos and churros. This was, of course, the missing piece of the "family friendly environment" Six Flags has been striving to create. [via]
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.
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.
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.
Roadway Plant List
While you're out there in the garden considering plants, take a look at the 5th edition of the Chicago Department of Transportation's Roadway Plant List (PDF)-- an intense list of plants, trees, flowers, shrubs, vines, etc. with info on how well they hold up against road salt and other indignations on Chicago's medians and roadways.
Urbs in Horto Bloggius Maximus
Despite being a dingy grey urban hellhole here and there, Chicago has a number of blogs run by backyard gardeners trying to bring a patch of green to the city. Mr. Brown Thumb is one. Sweet Home and Garden Chicago is another, as is My Chicago Garden.
Another Bird to Check Off the List
Chicago birders will be pleased to hear that a Black Headed gull is currently visiting the Montrose Avenue Beach.
Experience Everything But Taste
As if you need another reason to head into the tropical climes of the Lincoln Park Conservatory, you have until the end of the month to check out Shawn Decker's "Chorus," playing in the oh-so-warm Fern Room.
Chicago Plucks Greenbuild Expo From LA
This just in: After some scheduling shenanigans, the US Green Building Council (USGBC) has ditched LA as the site of their annual Greenbuild International Conference and Expo in favor of, you guessed it, Chicago. The three-day event will take place in November and is expected to attract more than 12,000 people. Chicago vs. LA score update: 1-Zip. All the Olympics boosters in town are now hoping the USOC follows suit.
It's Cold, Let's Talk about Global Warming
Mayor Daley announced that 80 designer globes will line part of Lake Shore Drive this summer to raise awareness of the dangers of global warming. The project entitled "Cool Globes: Hot Ideas for a Cooler Planet" will feature designs by noted artists and will (eventually) be auctioned off to raise funds to support conservation clubs in the Chicago Public Schools.
GreenBean Adds Submission Form and Flickr Photos
GreenBean, the site devoted to "built, in-progress and unbuilt green buildings in Chicago," has just launched two new features. Developers can submit projects they'd like GreenBean to cover and amateur photographers can upload and tag photos of posted projects to Flickr so that they are displayed on the site. GreenBean is authored by Erik Olsen, the Green Projects Administrator for the Chicago Department of Construction and Permit, where he manages the Green Permit Program. Readers of the site have grown accustomed to his well-written, intensely documented essays that shine light on the broad green building movement here, from private residences to SROs, social services providers and government buildings.
Brownish Greens
D+ and C+. The University of Chicago and Northwestern University, respectively, as graded by the College Sustainability Report Card released last week. Faulty. Find out how your mater fared, and read up on the issue.
Shopping, Now With More Green
The Green Exchange, Logan Square's proposed "green merchandise mart" has launched its website. Dedicated towards green living, the site offers building plans, an FAQ and a forum to discuss the building and issues surrounding its development. [Hat tip: Craig]
Something Fresh, Something New
Increasingly needed in this day and age, A Fresh Squeeze is a site dedicated to green living in Chicago. Primarily a bi-weekly email, the site also offers articles in their archives for a taste of things past.
Bicycle Film Festival '07: Call for Submissions
After last year's small success in Chicago, we've heard word that the Bicycle Film Festival will be back again. Currently, founding director Brendt Barbur and co are looking for new submissions for the 2007 round of film festivals set to take place in up to 15 cities: "We are looking for films with a strong theme or character of bicycles. This includes all mediums and styles such as animation, experimental, narrative, documentary and music videos." The deadline is February the 17th so you have about a month to get going or fine-tune that piece you've been working on. Details at the site or take a look at the flyer here.
Our Environmental Report Card
Conscious Choice provides a quick rundown of Chicago's environmental status, including an interview with Mayor Daley.
Winter Bike to Work Day
Like it's sibling in the summer, the Winter edition of Bike to Work Day coming up features hot beverages and goodies at Daley Plaza this month on the 19th (Friday) from 7 to 9am. The Chicagoland Bicycle Federation hosts activities, a raffle with prizes and the chance to congregate and meet up with your fellow cyclists.
Take Your Tree Down!
The City of Chicago is once again holding their "Turn Green Into Blue" [PDF] Xmas tree recycling program. On January the 6th, you can bring your tree or a bag of recyclables to one of 23 locations from 9:00am and 2:00pm. You get your tree back in the form of mulch and you get a year's supply of blue bags for your time. Take a look at the PDF flyer for locations.
Fallen Rider Memorial Ride
A group of Chicago cyclists (myself being one of them) have organized a ride to raise awareness of the growing number of cyclist fatalities in the Chicagoland area. Named the "Fallen Rider Memorial Ride", the ride will start at the Thompson Center at 6pm tomorrow, January the 3rd and will ride to Diversey and Pulaski at an easygoing and respectful pace. The goal? To highlight how important driving and cycling are to Chicago and how the two require attention and respect. A PDF flyer can be viewed, downloaded, printed and passed along from here.
Even Green Sidewalks
Solar powered bus stops and recycled tire sidewalks are being tested by the Chicago Department of Transportation. Will they make the cut?
Go Green
Know anyone who's living the green lifestyle? Chicago Magazine wants to hear about them. Nominate people for the Green Awards.
Great Lakes Safe and Open for Now
The Coast Guard's plan to establish 34 permanent live-fire zones in the Great Lakes has been withdrawn due to citizen concerns.
The Last Four Miles
Friends of the Parks has proposed a plan to connect the chain of lakeshore parks along the South Side, buying property and creating an archipelago of islands where the lakefront is built up.
Cold + Precipitation + Tall Buildings = Trouble
What's the appropriate course of action when you see a "Beware of Falling Ice" sign? The Tribune helps you avoid an icicle in the head.
Wooden Chicago, Model Trains
I'm not a big fan of holiday schmaltz, but the Winter Wonderland exhibit at the Chicago Botanical Gardens is actually worth it. They've built elaborate recreations of Chicago landmarks using twigs, leaves, acorns, nuts, and other natural elements. Unlike art in other venues, there's a visceral reaction: it smells fantastic and is permeated by the sound of running water and model trains. Plus, the greenhouses are open in the new Regenstein Center if you want to feel tropical despite the cold temperatures. There's something neat about looking at cactus when the ground around you is covered in snow.
Sadie Hawkins Day Race
Sadie Hawkins is a fictional day from a L'il Abner strip. However, it is now also a bike race organized to encourage women of all kinds who ride bikes to come out and race for fun, as well as to benefit the Chicago Women's Health Center. There's a pre-race fashion party on Friday, Nov 10th in the Fulton Markets with the race happening on Nov 11th, followed with a post-party the same day. Want to race? Want to have fun? Check out the myspace.
'Bout Time for Bins
The Tribune reports that city officials are set to announce the expansion of the curbside recycling program to seven wards throughout Chicago. Shocking to no one who has lived municipalities that provide separate collection bins (in other words, every other major city in the country, and most minor ones), recycling participation has surged to 80% in Beverly -- a dramatic change from the rest of the city, where only 13% bother (and probably only about 3% believe their blue bagged waste is actually treated differently than the rest of the trash).
"For the Not-So-Safe Driver"
Looks like the Chicago Bike Federation has a new website for their Drive With Care campaign. At first, I thought it was real, but then I knew that any memorial like "The Brittany" had to be too good to be true. Well done, chaps.
My Lake Michigan Firing Range
The Coast Guard has proposed establishing 34 permanent live-fire zones in the Great Lakes. The 2,500 square miles of water would be closed to public while in use. As you might expect, people throughout the Great Lakes are more than a little upset. Currently, the Coast Guard's information site is offline although a comment page and a press release are available.
Clean-Up The Forests
Want to help improve the Cook County Forest Preserve but don't know where to get started? A new website, fpdccvolunteers.org, helps point you towards opportunities in the preserves. They even have a calendar if you just feel like popping in unannounced.
Bungalow Exhibition This Weekend
This weekend is the Chicago Bungalow Exhibition and Green Housing Fair. Expect to learn about historical fixtures and interiors for your bungalow, financing a house, city services, as well as how to improve your house's environmental footprint. Interested in solar energy? Or sustainable insulation? This free expo has the goods to get your started on improving your abode.
Make Tallgrass, Not Bombs
Nice article about the Midewin National Tallgrass Prairie, an effort in southwest suburban Midewin to return a former military arsenal to the tallgrass prairie it was prior to the 1800s.
Make Room for Tulips
It's hard to imagine the lush and dense Lurie Garden has room for 60,000 additional tulips, daffodils, and ornamental onions, but that's how many bulbs are going to be planted there between today and Wednesday. Here's a discussion of bulb expert Jacqueline van der Kloet's design strategy. Lots of color to look forward to next spring!
Get a Green Roof Grant
Got a roof? Green it up with cash from the city. When you plant on your roof, you help the heat-island effect and decrease water runoff. Interested? Attend an info session on the grant's requirements at the Center for Green Technology on Sept. 19 or 26 from 6-7 pm. Download an application today.
Garfield Park To Host County Fair
Speaking of gardens, Garfield Park is hosting a County Fair (pdf) this weekend. While there won't be any demolition derby, there will be free music, a farmer's market, crafts, carnival, petting zoo, and plenty of other activities.
Garden Walks And Home Tours This Weekend
If you feel like sampling some of the city's history, both Old Irving Park (NW Side) and Edgewater Glen (N Side) are hosting garden walks and house tours this weekend. For a small chunk of change you can tour the beautiful gardens and old Victorian houses of Chicago. Old Irving is Saturday, and Edgewater is Sunday. To get more details, keep reading.
Logan Square Good Times
Hey, have you checked out the Paseo Prairie Garden in Logan Square? It's across from the CTA Blue Line. The Garden's looking awesome and it's all thanks to Archi-Treasures, a non-profit that brings art, architecture, environment and community groups together. You can help support the Garden by volunteering on Saturdays or by kicking Archi-Treasures a few bucks. Do it!
Free Plants for You or Your Community
Next Friday (15 September) is the registration deadline for participating in the Great Perennial Divide, an event that supports community and other shared gardens by distributing free perennials. Individual gardeners can also participate, if they donate plants at the Chicago Center for Green Technology on 23 September. Click here (pdf) for details.
Chicago's living history
Flickr geotaggers and those viewing one recent post may have noticed that Chicago's historic neighborhoods like Little Hell and Shantytown are alive on the Internet. Other interesting locations include the Berkeley Cottages and Packingtown.
Bikes+Metra ≠ Bikes+South Shore Line
A Lincoln Park high school teacher has a lesson for you: Metra's bicycle regulations are more permissive than the South Shore Line's. He has a $150 taxi ride from South Bend to Lincoln Park to prove it.
A Fish By Any Other Name...
The Patagonian toothfish found its popularity rose dramatically after it was renamed Chilean sea bass, and now chefs lead the fight to save it. Experts in Illinois are now proposing that, instead of using electric barriers, if we would rename the Asian carp, say "silver cod", it would be what's for dinner tonight.
Buzz Buzz Buzz
Do you remember the great cicada invasion of 1990? That was the last time 17-year cicadas came out of their underground burrows in Chicagoland, and the Lake County Forest Preserve is collecting stories about it in anticipation of next year's resurfacing. Eric Zorn reprints a column from '90 about the 1973 invasion in his blog.
Chicago: Green Fashion Capital of the U.S.?
The city's recent appointment of Melissa Turner as Chicago's fashion czarina brought a challenge from treehugger: become the green fashion capital of the U.S. Designers, will you embrace the challenge?
Compost Bins Available, CHEAP!
Do you compost? You should, if you have any outdoor space at home. All day Saturday, the University of Illinois Extension is selling compost bins worth $80 for only $25 to Chicago city residents (bring proof of address with you) at the Garfield Park Conservatory visitor parking lot. Why compost? Besides creating stuff that makes for really good garden soil, it's a simple and environmentally sound way to divert yard waste and vegetarian kitchen scraps from garbage dumps and sewage. Slowdown has the details on this virtual giveaway. UPDATE: Bins will also be available at the Chicago High School of Agricultural Sciences at 3807 W. 111th St. and the North Park Village Nature Center at 5801 N. Pulaski. (Thanks, Amber!)
Start Gathering Your Toxics
Sure, it's hot, but with a household hazardous waste drop-off day coming this Saturday, now's the time to make a pile of your old oil-based paint cans, that broken TV in the basement, and that clunky laptop you replaced a year ago. You know this is stuff that shouldn't just go in the trash, right? Right. Carve out some time Saturday to haul your pile to the drop-off (see Slowdown for details) and get a year's supply of blue bags for your trouble.
Conserve!
The city of Chicago and public utilities doesn't just recommend that people conserve electricity. They're also hoping to get people to conserve water by buying a rain barrel to catch run off from your home to use for watering your lawn and garden. To make that easier to accomplish, they're offering barrels for $20 to city residents. My tomato plants wish I'd heard of this a few months ago.
R.A.M.B.L.E.
Friend of GB, scooterist, designer and vegan guide making extraordinaire, PJ Chmiel hits the open road on his scooter on a tour he calls the 2006 R.A.M.B.L.E. Ambitious in scope, it should be quite a ride. Follow along when he kicks off tomorrow.
The Seiche Strikes
Even if it was historically mild, the weather pattern Dave mentioned yesterday still managed to wreak a bit of havoc at the lake shore. Seven boats flipped, sending a total of fourteen people overboard. The thunderstorms did cool things off a bit, at least temporarily. Today's temps are meant to be hotter -- possibly reaching triple digits -- just in time for several local beaches to be put under swimming advisory.
Today's Forecast: a Seiche
Sunday's Coastal Flood Statement predicts a seiche caused by severe thunderstorms. While not uncommon, they have caused considerable damage in Chicago. In 1954, an eight to ten foot reflective wave caused by a seiche drowned eight people (page 24) and swept dozens into the lake (page 67). But don't worry: today's seiche should be less than a foot tall.
Toward Sustainable Skyscrapers
Beyond its position as an architecture capital, Chicago continues to set a national example for environmentally responsible building. Architectural Record reports on how the Green Permit Program is helping contractors by getting their projects started faster and helping the ecology by incentivizing LEED-compliant design and construction.
More Concrete Lakeshore?
A concrete model for three North Side lakefront revetments is inexplicably hiding on the South Side (second article). Since most North Siders probably won't make it to Oakwood Boulevard and Lake Shore Drive this week, take a look at the model online, and decide if you prefer the current limestone or the proposed concrete. If you want to share your opinion with the powers that be, follow the instructions from the Lakeview Revetment Task Force, and get your letter in by the 26th.
Without the beetles
Remember when the Asian long-horned beetle was the talk of the town? Well, those days are over: today, after two years since the last beetle sighting, the final quarantine on Chicago neighborhoods was lifted, meaning that homeowners don't have to pulverize any hardwood trees that they may wish to remove. And Illinois could be declared completely free of the destructive pest as early as next year. But don't think that we'll be free of tree-killing bugs anytime soon: Kane County officials are still looking for signs of the emerald ash borer, which showed up in Illinois last month.
Protecting the Flying Jewels
One of Chicagoland's most endangered species is the Hine's emerald dragonfly. On Wednesday, the US Fish & Wildlife Service is expected to designate critical habitats for the 2-3" bug, including the Lockport Prairie south of Romeoville.
Border collies vs. sea gulls
The city is piloting a program at Foster Avenue Beach to see if Wild Goose Chase's border collies can scare away sea gulls. Fewer gulls means fewer bird droppings, and the city hopes that fewer bird droppings will lead to lower e. coli levels in Lake Michigan. Here's to actually swimming at our beaches!
Jammin' at the Beach
The beaches in Uptown were jam-packed on the Fourth -- so packed that the police closed the Lake Shore Drive exit ramps from Montrose up to Foster.
Behind the Buildings: David Woodhouse
David Woodhouse Architects has a spiffy new site detailing many of the architectural projects that have come out of the studio. Based in Chicago, they're the creatives behind quite a few of the Chicago Institutions you enjoy today. Take a look at the site, meander the buildings and find out the inspiration behind each.
Photos from Go Skateboarding Day
I don't follow up on skateboarding like I used to so it was a pleasant surprise to hear about last week's Go Skateboarding Day. You can live vicariously through these Flickr photo sets: here and here.
Emerald ash borer redux
Update on