Gapers Block : Merge : Author

Backstage at the Opera
The Lyric Opera has launched "Backstage at Lyric," a podcast that "features in-depth interviews with the singers, conductors, and creative minds behind the productions of the 2007/08 season."
Fri September 21 2007 Music/Clubs

Arrrrrrrrrrrrrrr!
Don't forget today is Talk Like a Pirate Day, ya scurvy cur! You may want to get in the mood by viewing pirates from previous years, and while you're looking, note that flickr has gotten into the spirit.
Wed September 19 2007 Stuff

We're the Cleanest!
According to the biennially disturbing survey of public bathroom hand washing, those at the Shedd and MSI washed their hands 81% of the time, compared to lower totals elsewhere. A word to the wise: avoid men at Atlanta baseball games.
Tue September 18 2007 Health/Fitness

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].
Tue September 18 2007 Politics/Activism

12.8% Mortgage
The Chicago Reporter finds that the Chicago metropolitan area leads the nation in high-cost loans. The story is receiving serious attention and will be featured locally tomorrow on Eight Forty-Eight and the Cliff Kelley Show.
Mon September 17 2007 In the News

CNN Architecture Shout Out
Omnipresent CNN's all up in our stuff with an article about Chicago's architectural legacy, along with some photos and a short video about Frank Lloyd Wright's local connections.
Mon September 17 2007 Arts/Architecture

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.
Sun September 16 2007 Transportation

Fashion Design and You
If you've started or are planning to start a fashion business in Chicago, the City of Chicago and Macy's would like to give you the opportunity to win a Designer in Residence position at the new Macy's State Street Chicago Fashion Incubator. There are some stipulations and a $75 application fee, but you can download the application and get the full details now [pdf].
Wed September 12 2007 Resources

Mulling the Museum Move
As debate escalates over the Chicago Children's Museum's proposed move to Grant Park, Blair Kamin offers a scathing critique of the current Richard J. Daley Bicentennial Plaza while reminding us of the 1836 statement: "Public Ground -- A Common to Remain Forever Open, Clear and Free of any Buildings, or other Obstruction Whatever."
Wed September 12 2007 Arts/Architecture

Photography in the Digital Age
Photographers may be interested in the free Photography 2.0: The Business of Photography in the Digital Era. The Chicago event runs on September 19 and features a range of photographers, editors and buyers. Check out the site to register and get more information.
Tue September 11 2007 Photography

"Enjoy Family Life"
Has anyone else out there received a handwritten proselytizing letter like this?
Mon September 10 2007 Religion/Spirituality

"Licking Chicks"
I have a feeling Jonathan Fin and Casey Black are going to regret making this video.
Sat September 8 2007 Found on the Web

Apple Store ... in Flames!
Following Apple's iPhone price drop, a band of furious early adopters looted the Michigan Avenue Apple Store -- or so this article jests. Perhaps that's why Apple's handing out cash.
Fri September 7 2007 In the News

Sssssssssssssss
Stu Iselin was surprised to find a python on his coffee table yesterday morning.
Thu September 6 2007 Stuff

The Interactive Music and Coffee Experience
Apple's new iPod releases include an interesting partnership with Starbucks that will hit Chicago in March 2008. When you walk into a megalocoffee shop, you'll be able to see information about each song that's playing in the store as it plays and, of course, buy it and other iTunes songs. If you're interested in more information about the program, most pages on Apple's site currently list the wrong URL, so go here instead.
Wed September 5 2007 Business/Shopping

2008 Green Party Convention
The Green Party selected Chicago over three other cities for its 2008 nominating convention. You can check out the full proposal at the Chicago convention bid website.
Wed September 5 2007 Politics/Activism

$0 Chicago Card
Given the pending fare hike, the CTA is waiving the $5 fee for the Chicago Card and Chicago Card Plus until Halloween. The cards will make riding 50¢ to $1 cheaper, depending on the time of day and location, so it's worth the effort to find a sales location [pdf] or use the separate online ordering sites for the Chicago Card or Chicago Card Plus.
Tue September 4 2007 Transportation

Underneath Our Feet
The Sun Times posted a feature about the variety of restaurants, clubs and other points of interest underneath our fair city. You may also want to check out Alice Maggio's two-part feature on the Pedway.
Fri August 31 2007 Stuff

Closer to a Chicago Anglican Bishop
The Episcopal Diocese of Chicago has included the Very Rev. Tracey Lind as a top five nominee for the 12th Bishop of Chicago. Because Lind is a lesbian, her nomination once again sets up the potential for conflict with the more conservative Anglican Communion.
Wed August 29 2007 Religion/Spirituality

From Pseudonym to Lisagor Award
Chicago Magazine's recent profile of Jeff McCourt is not only interesting for its discussion of the Windy City Times founder's life but for its Chicago gay and lesbian history. [Thanks, Matt!]
Tue August 28 2007 History

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.
Tue August 28 2007 Found on the Web

A Revolt Against "Quirk"?
This American Life and the "avatar of contemporary quirk," Ira Glass, take center stage in Atlantic Monthly's recent critique of the quirky side of pop culture. [via]
Tue August 28 2007 Radio/TV

The Sun-Times' New Activism
Following the announcement that the Sun-Times is going liberal, it called for a boycott of BP gasoline. Editorial page editor Cheryl Reed was recently on On the Media to talk about the boycott call and the paper's future political orientation.
Mon August 27 2007 Politics/Activism

Once Upon a Time
Once upon a time, a band named Fugazi regularly toured the country, providing great joy to children everywhere. Yet it has been five years since That Wonderful Band toured, and many of those children have grown up. Those Children of Yesterday may now buy a new pressing of Fugazi shows, such as that from Peoria in 1995.
Fri August 24 2007 Music/Clubs

The Chicago Colts
If you follow baseball (or don't, in my case), you're probably aware of the 30-3 trouncing the Rangers gave the Orioles last night. However, you may not be aware that the team who still holds the record for points in a game (37, back in 1897), the Chicago Colts, was a predecessor to the Cubs.
Thu August 23 2007 Sports/Recreation

"Lock Up All Liberals at Gitmo"
Meet Richard Tisch, conservative jeweler with a sign.
Thu August 23 2007 Stuff

Max! Meow? Woof?
Following the news that "Max" is the number one name for cats and dogs for the fifth year in a row, a weird pet name free for all has broken out at the Trib.
Thu August 23 2007 Found on the Web

Unpronounceable
Chicago comic Kumail Nanjiani's autobiographical show, "Unpronounceable," which follows his life from his childhood in Karachi, Pakistan to college in rural Iowa, plays the Lakeshore Theater on Friday. His July show sold out, so you may want to buy your tickets ahead of time. Details in Slowdown.
Wed August 22 2007 Theatre/Dance

More Simic Connections
The new U.S. Poet Laureate, Charles Simic, may currently live in New Hampshire, but he has strong Chicago roots. Amongst other connections, he spent "the most important year" of his life in Oak Park.
Tue August 21 2007 Books/Authors

Word Jazz Online
Movie trailer watchers and late night WBEZ listeners familiar with Ken Nordine may want to check out his website Word Jazz, which includes a blog with unusual poems starting with "Maybe the moment" and a podcast of his late night stylings.
Mon August 20 2007 Weblogs

A More Swedish Batavia
Batavia's doing well in IKEA's Small Businesses, Big Dreams contest, in which cities compete for having up to ten small businesses remodeled by the company. Check out their entry, vote for them and help them do even better.
Fri August 17 2007 Found on the Web

Chicago's New Architecture
Chicago Magazine's current issue includes a feature on the state of Chicago's contemporary architecture scene, complete with a fairly interesting top 10 list, which includes gems like The Contemporaine. Check out their feature, then weigh in on your favorite and least favorite buildings.
Fri August 17 2007 Arts/Architecture

Have an "Unusual" Collection?
If so, make a short video about your collection and submit it to apartments.com for a chance to win $20,000. At the time of writing, no one's submitted anything, so your odds are good at being an early front runner.
Thu August 16 2007 Stuff

New Bottled Water Tax?
The national movement against bottled water is making further inroads here, where it looks like Mayor Daley will support a 10¢ to 25¢ tax on bottled water sales.
Wed August 15 2007 Eating/Drinking

Our Lost Stuff on eBay
It looks like the state has the eBay bug and is going to sell unclaimed items on eBay. So if you still can't find that coin you lost, you may want to check out Cash Dash or their auction photos.
Tue August 14 2007 Stuff

Protecting Modern Architecture
With the recent demolition of Dart's Emmanuel Presbyterian Church, Blair Kamin makes another call for including modern buildings in the city's architectural protections.
Mon August 13 2007 Arts/Architecture

Class Action Bathroom Suit
Two cousins at Paul Cuffe Math Science Technology Academy are filing a lawsuit because they were denied bathroom breaks.
Fri August 10 2007 Schools/Education

Lollapalooza Shenanigans
Apparently everything was going swimmingly for Pearl Jam at an AT&T site that carried their Lollapalooza set until Vedder sang "George Bush, leave this world alone" and "George Bush, find yourself another home." AT&T swears it's a mistake, but Pearl Jam's now asking for other examples of artist political censorship from the company.
Thu August 9 2007 Music/Clubs

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.
Wed August 8 2007 Outdoors/Environment

Chicago's Best Pierogi
Time Out Chicago enlisted Steve Zavesky, two-time pierogi eating champion, to check out the best pierogi in town. Gridskipper nicely repackaged a good portion of the article with a map. As always, other food deliciousness can be found in Drive-Thru.
Tue August 7 2007 Eating/Drinking

J Crew Sweater: Corner of N Clark and W Belden
Lauri Apple's FoundClothing -- which is about, well, the clothes she finds on the street -- got a nice boost in yesterday's Trib.
Mon August 6 2007 Weblogs

Chicago, City of Bridges
Let the fear mongering begin.
Fri August 3 2007 In the News

A Heat Wave by Any Other Name...
As good Chicagoans, we're all familiar with the deadly 1995 heat wave and Eric Klinenberg's lauded book on the subject. But what if we want to watch a play of it? Pegasus Players have our backs. PS If you're not a good Chicagoan, here's an interview with Klinenberg for some background.
Thu August 2 2007 Theatre/Dance

Get Your Work Out There
If you do documentary film work around Chicago, you may want to submit to the Chicago Reporter's John A. McDermott Documentary Short Film Fest. While you're at it, check out the new issue.
Thu August 2 2007 Film

Welcome to Oceanville, Illinois
Chicago the Lion invites you to visit the Muppet Wiki page for Illinois. That's right: the Muppet Wiki.
Tue July 31 2007 Stuff

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.
Mon July 30 2007 Transportation

Bensenville "Ghost Town"
A Tribune article and corresponding video about the legal battles between Bensenville residents and Chicago over O'Hare expansion suggests visual artists could have a field day in the area.
Fri July 27 2007 Photography

Not Getting Better for Macy's
As if Macy's year of problems wasn't enough, a man fell from an interior balcony at the State Street location yesterday.
Thu July 26 2007 Business/Shopping

No Spoilers, Please!
An enterprising Downers Grove teenager devised a solution to avoid hearing Harry Potter spoilers.
Wed July 25 2007 Books/Authors

"Like a Big Family"
The Green Exchange, the proposed Logan Square environmental supercenter, is garnering serious national attention.
Wed July 25 2007 Business/Shopping

71 Degrees
Studio Gang, the firm behind Aqua, is doing something interesting in Hyde Park.
Tue July 24 2007 Arts/Architecture

Ask a Music Scene Micro Celebrity
It's getting a little crazy, but Chicago music legend Steve Albini is answering a wide variety of questions in the Two Plus Two forums.
Mon July 23 2007 Found on the Web

Printers' Ball: More than Books
Not that we need more than books, but literary and non-literary types will get into The Printers' Ball tonight. In addition to an assortment of print materials and people, some swell performers and other activities will be going down. Personally, I'm hoping for a performance of "Waiting Room" (mp3). Details in Slowdown.
Fri July 20 2007 Books/Authors

A Pedagogical Factory
Starting on Sunday, the Stockyard Institute, AREA Chicago and other organizations will initiate "Pedagogical Factory: Exploring Strategies for an Educated City" at the Hyde Park Art Center. Throughout its run, topics will include "How We Peoples Make a People's Atlas of Chicago," "How We Grow: Self-Education and Urban Farming Gathering" and "How We Brew/Bake/Mead Etc Cottage Expo."
Thu July 19 2007 Arts/Architecture

Another First for Oak Park
Following its recent transgendered library fund, Oak Park is again on the forefront of GLBT issues in Illinois with their official support of state legislation that would establish civil unions for same-sex couples.
Wed July 18 2007 Politics/Activism

Feeling Ill?
If so, and you're into the U.S. News ratings for this, that and the other, you may want to head to the University of Chicago Medical Center for the best hospital in the region and the 17th best in the country.
Tue July 17 2007 Health/Fitness

The Physics of Jail Bars
Former University of Chicago student and militant environmental activist Billy Cottrell has been in jail since 2004, but Stephen Hawking wants him freed.
Fri July 13 2007 People/Sightings

Oh, Those Canadians!
The Globe and Mail reports on what is surely the most important aspect of the Conrad Black trial.
Thu July 12 2007 Stuff

Photo Swap on July 21
The Gapers Block/Calumet Photographic Photo Swap is just over a week away. Show up with five 4"x6" photographs, hang out, have some food and drinks, and then go home with five photos from other people. Details in Slowdown.
Wed July 11 2007 Gapers

Opera Time-Lapse
Speaking of timewasters, the Chicago Opera Theater recently posted a time-lapse video of three set changes: from "Beatrice and Benedict" to "Duke Bluebeard's Castle" to "Erwartung" to "Beatrice and Benedict" again. Seven minutes of stagehand fun!
Tue July 10 2007 Found on the Web

Aviophobics in Style
Amtrak and GrandLuxe have teamed up to bring high-end GrandLuxe Limited service on regular Amtrak routes that primarily involve Chicago. Of course, a luxury train ride isn't cheap; routes start at $789.
Tue July 10 2007 Transportation

Clop, Clop, Clop, Plop.
If you've ever wondered why you've never seen a white Chicago Police Department horse or at least what being a mounted policeperson is like, this article's for you.
Tue July 10 2007 Stuff

Online Documentary Films
Meet folkstreams.net, a project to preserve documentaries about American roots cultures. There is, of course, a Midwestern section, and at least two Chicago-related films "The Popovich Brothers of South Chicago" and "Grace Earl."
Mon July 9 2007 Film

Now's Your Chance, Lobster Man
If you have a hankerin' for counter-culture theater, you may want to see Mary-Arrchie's performance of two Sam Shepard plays, "4-H Club" (1965) and Cowboy Mouth (1971). If you're interested, here's a review of the current production and some fascinating background (and a spoiler) on the latter play, which was co-written with Patti Smith.
Fri July 6 2007 Theatre/Dance

Window Washers of Chicago
Meet Garcia de la Cadena, the Mexican village from which a disproportionate share of our window washers hail.
Thu July 5 2007 Business/Shopping

Briefly Stepping Back in Time
The Palmolive Building will briefly light its beacon tomorrow night. It may not be the real deal, but it's the first test of a configuration that may be used on future special occasions.
Tue July 3 2007 Arts/Architecture

Greatest Chicago Movies
Tom McNamee of the Sun-Times offers his "Top 10 Greatest Chicago Movies." The list is heavy on recent popular flicks, but there are still a couple of out-of-the way movies worth checking out.
Tue July 3 2007 Film

Tasting It All
Speaking of consuming huge amounts of food, the Trib's Monica Eng sampled 253 dishes at the Taste. The experiment cost the paper a grand total of $1,022. I'm sure it was a lot of really healthy food.
Mon July 2 2007 Eating/Drinking

The Value of Lost Love
A Cook County jury ordered a woman's lover to pay her husband $4,802.87 for stealing her love. Then it gets weird.
Mon July 2 2007 Offbeat/Misc. Events

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.
Fri June 29 2007 Arts/Architecture

As Seen on TV: the Oprah Store
If you want to hold an "O Baby" hat and mittens set before you buy it, you may soon be able to head to 57 N. Carpenter to visit the Oprah Store.
Thu June 28 2007 Business/Shopping

Three Pigs and the North Shore
A circuit court judge has upheld the right of a former member of the Walgreens family to keep her three pigs on her Lake Forest property until at least 2011. Her next-door neighbors and 300 other locals aren't pleased. The decision will be appealed.
Wed June 27 2007 Stuff

Major South Loop Development
In the arithmetic of today, 8 acres = 3,000 homes + 1 hotel + (unspecified) stores + 1 marina. Now this developer needs to turn in its homework on time.
Tue June 26 2007 Arts/Architecture

The End is Nigh
The Tribune provides sign 15,347 that cicada fever is most certainly cresting.
Mon June 25 2007 Stuff

Oak Park, Leader in Transgender Education
The Illinois State Library provided funds for a $3,000 grant to the Oak Park Public Library to create the first transgendered-oriented public library collection in the country.
Fri June 22 2007 Resources

Just a Little Greener
As of today, Cheikh "Bamba" Dione is the first fleet-based hybrid taxi driver in Chicago. Oh, and if you attend the formal unveiling, you may be lucky enough to watch David Hudson receive CCC's Cab Driver of the Year award and then witness his hand print and signature rendered in wet cement for CCC's "Walk of Fame."
Thu June 21 2007 Transportation

When is it Time to do a Squirrel Necropsy?
When they're dying along the banks of Oak Lawn Lake.
Wed June 20 2007 Outdoors/Environment

1,000,000 sq ft
A 50-story commercial building may soon be the capstone to the Chicago River. If built, it will increase the amount of new office space in Chicago by 20%.
Wed June 20 2007 Arts/Architecture

A Zombie Invasion?
The Cook County morgue has a big problem: it's missing a body. Be alert.
Tue June 19 2007 Stuff

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.
Mon June 18 2007 Outdoors/Environment

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.
Wed June 13 2007 Sports/Recreation

Psst. Wanna Get Married?
A Chicago man is accused of "leading" a ring in which U.S. residents would marry Eastern European immigrants for $5,000. In a stroke of brilliance, each of the "families" charged in the case attended each other's wedding ceremonies, making them oh-so-difficult to connect with each other.
Wed June 13 2007 In the News

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?
Tue June 12 2007 Stuff

Time to Head Elsewhere
Norman Finkelstein, controversial professor of political science at DePaul, has been denied tenure. Read his collection of articles about the situation. UPDATE: He spoke on 848 this morning.
Tue June 12 2007 Schools/Education

Today's Secret Word Is...
Gapers Block! So you go get Conky, and I'll show you the geographic distribution of the use of the term.
Mon June 11 2007 Gapers

Hounds Called Off
The Hoffman Estates-based Chicago Hounds United Hockey League team is closing shop after only a year in business due to issues with their home rink, the Sears Centre.
Fri June 8 2007 Sports/Recreation

Googlization at Midwestern Libraries
Google and the Midwest-based Committee on Institutional Cooperation announced an agreement to digitize up to ten million volumes from member universities. Local member schools include the University of Chicago, Northwestern and UIC.
Thu June 7 2007 Books/Authors

LGBT Center Open
Center on Halsted, the most comprehensive LGBT facility in the Midwest, is now officially open.
Wed June 6 2007 Politics/Activism

No More Waiting Until 3pm!
The Department of Streets and Sanitation has a special treat for Bucktown and Wicker Park residents -- and, no, it's not the usual orange one. The city is testing out a new light program that will signal when it's ok to park on a street after it's been cleaned.
Tue June 5 2007 Transportation

Oops, Dad's Out of the Frame
Calling all family albums! The Tribune is seeking your bad vacation photos.
Mon June 4 2007 Photography

Whitey Strikes Back
On Wednesday, Q101 became the first radio station to play the new White Stripes album. Two hours later, a very displeased Jack White called the station.
Fri June 1 2007 Radio/TV

Big Money
The University of Chicago was just given $100 million -- anonymously. The gift will launch the new Odyssey Scholarships program, which will serve students from low- to middle-income families. Due to the size of the gift, almost a quarter of enrolled students will benefit from it at any given time.
Thu May 31 2007 Schools/Education

A Locally Grown Hybrid
Car, that is. A couple of weeks ago, IIT's Armour College of Engineering entered a car in the student 2007 Formula Hybrid competition. They finished in 5th out of 6th in overall points, but more than doubled their previous speed record. They have their eyes on first place next year.
Wed May 30 2007 Transportation

One Heck of a Headline
Bloomberg's recent review of Johan Van Overtveldt's book about the University of Chicago Department of Economics has one heck of a headline, alongside some interesting information about the department. If you like what you see, you may want to catch his upcoming speech.
Tue May 29 2007 Books/Authors

Another "Independent" Theater
Sundance Cinemas announced it will open a new eight screen theater in Chicago. It'll be located in the West Loop when it opens ... in Spring 2009.
Fri May 25 2007 Arts/Architecture

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.
Thu May 24 2007 Outdoors/Environment

Englewood's Gonna Be Rich
Well, maybe not, but the MacArthur Foundation is investing $26 million for community and economic development in 16 Chicago neighborhoods, such as Englewood, Logan Square, Pilsen, and Woodlawn. View the community map and relevant organization listing [pdf].
Wed May 23 2007 In the News

A Single North American Currency?
At a speech at the Chicago Council on Global Affairs, Bank of Canada Governor David Dodge hinted at the possibility of a regionally unified currency. Don't think it's going to happen any time soon, however, considering thickening "labor flows" are currently in the way.
Tue May 22 2007 Politics/Activism

The Lager Beer Riot of 1855
Learn about said riot and nine other bits of trivia about the Chicago City Council in this fine Trib article.
Mon May 21 2007 Politics/Activism

We're Number One...
in average gas prices. Um, huzzah?
Sun May 20 2007 Business/Shopping

Official Oprah Winfrey Week
"We can maybe take that week and show her how much we really love her." We can definitely take that week, apparently.
Sat May 19 2007 In the News

Everyday is Like Sunday
If you're interested in every last detail of Tuesday's Morrissey concert, check out the Morrissey Solo message board. Documented are the set list, crowd reactions, number of times people rushed the stage, merchandise quality, and, well, every last detail.
Thu May 17 2007 Music/Clubs

Olympic Logo Woes
The International Olympic Committee has determined the Chicago bid logo violates the organization's rules. A new logo is now in the works.
Wed May 16 2007 Sports/Recreation

My First Firearm Owner's Identification Card
A Daily Southtown writer procured a FOIC card for his 11-month-old boy, and in so doing, stumbled upon an interesting loophole. Oh, and the boy goes by "Bubba."
Wed May 16 2007 In the News

A New Neighbor
Chicago, meet the Village of Campton Hills, our newest neighbor.
Tue May 15 2007 In the News

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."
Mon May 14 2007 Outdoors/Environment

The Influence of Chicago Dollars
Chicago Public Radio documents a town with more than 50% of its residents in the United States, many of whom are in Chicago. With the help of a Hometown Club (founded by a Chicago immigrant), for every migrant dollar donated, local, state and federal governments donate a dollar each. In this way, dollars from the United States fund town projects and are hoped to curb out-migration.
Fri May 11 2007 Radio/TV

Scourge of the Suburbs
A revolt is underway in the suburbs. The target: new sidwalks. After all, with sidewalks, "who knows what you'd be encouraging to come through?" The Trib's online readers are having none of it, with approximately 90% saying sidewalks in neighborhoods are "a positive addition."
Wed May 9 2007 Politics/Activism

That Was Fast
Remember the divorce billboard from yesterday? It was removed for permit violations before the end of the day.
Wed May 9 2007 Stuff

Chicago: America's Favorite City?
CNN and Travel + Leisure have teamed up to oh-so-scientifically poll Internet users about their favorite cities. Chicago is, of course, one of the "hottest cities" and is therefore included. Filling out the survey makes you eligible to win a vacation to America's favorite city in 2007! Just kidding; you win a trip to Australia.
Wed May 9 2007 City Life/Cultural

"Life's Short. Get a Divorce.''
Fetman, Garland & Associates, Ltd. is getting aggressive with their new ad campaign. As one might expect, it's generating controversy.
Tue May 8 2007 Business/Shopping

Are You Ready for Post-Postmodern Architecture?
George Jetson's high-rise order is nearly ready to be filled in Chicago, but not everyone's a fan of his new digs. If you're curious about similar projects, check out the bizarre Dynamic Architecture website.
Mon May 7 2007 Arts/Architecture

More Evening News?
Following the Sun-Times' P.M. Download Edition, the Tribune is considering launching an online evening edition. At least in theory, the edition would be more focused on news analysis than summaries.
Fri May 4 2007 In the News

Honest Abe's Illinois Shenanigans
While Calgon may not take you away, Abraham Lincoln has you covered.
Fri May 4 2007 Stuff

Attack of the Smileys
Several cars in Printers Row received smiley face makeovers last night. The Trib astutely predicts "if the taggers are caught, there will be no smiles."
Thu May 3 2007 Stuff

The Incredible Moving L Station House
Check out this mini-photo essay documenting the Belmont L station house move [window resizes].
Wed May 2 2007 Transportation

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.
Wed May 2 2007 Music/Clubs

Not a Family Values Pick
Greg Olsen, the Bears' first round draft pick, recorded an amazingly sexist song with other students while a freshman in college.
Tue May 1 2007 Sports/Recreation

Go, Go Chicago Architecture!
If you're a fan of Chicago architecture, you should definitely check out Great Chicago Places and Spaces 2007. Advance sign-up for more than 200 tours is only available online and starts today at noon.
Tue May 1 2007 Arts/Architecture

Third Grade Architectural Modeling
Elementary students at the Lab School have been building their favorite pieces of the Chicago skyline in Joyce Carrasco's class for more than a decade. Check out examples from the class of 2004-2005. Dibs on the Morton Salt building! [via]
Mon April 30 2007 Arts/Architecture

Major Teacher Purge
Following last year's teacher firing, Chicago Public Schools gave notice to more than 775 probationary teachers on Friday.
Mon April 30 2007 Schools/Education

"Put Traction Issue Up to Straphangers"
The Tribune has an interesting list of Chicago transit facts (with an inexplicably capitalized headline).
Sun April 29 2007 Transportation

Contemporary Art on the South Side
The Renaissance Society, the University of Chicago's contemporary art advocate and gallery, is hosting its next opening on Sunday. If you've never visited, the Katharina Grosse show should be a fine introduction to the gallery, which has exhibited everyone from Picasso to Bourgeois. If that's not your thing, you may want to check out the Hyde Park Art Center's 24-hour Creative Move TOO.
Fri April 27 2007 Arts/Architecture

Circus Circus
Local circus freak Ken Harck just made another acquisition. This time it's a rare Ringling Bros. poster.
Fri April 27 2007 Arts/Architecture

Corn Oil vs. Eggs
The year's first volley of the epic human vs. seagull battle has been launched.
Thu April 26 2007 Outdoors/Environment

ChronicBabe 2.0
ChronicBabe, the locally-produced website for women with chronic health conditions, just launched a redesign. New features include a chronic conditions resource center and an online store. Additionally, if you sign up for Goodie Bags, the site's electronic newsletter, you get a free ebook copy of How to Be a ChronicBabe: A Beginner's Toolkit.
Wed April 25 2007 Resources

Olympic Arts
With all of the hubbub about the Olympics, there's an argument that sports shouldn't get all of the attention. In a city currently alive with Version>07, and soon to have Artropolis going too, art should also be at the forefront. Tribune art critics provide a few conceptions of how art could work with the Olympics.
Tue April 24 2007 Arts/Architecture

Giant Pizza Bridge
The AP's reporting that the Skyway was in danger of "turning into a gigantic, Windy City-style, deep-dish pizza" yesterday. You may want to watch out for other structure-to-food transformations throughout the day.
Mon April 23 2007 In the News

Around the World in Chicago
If you've traveled around the world "crossing every meridian of longitude in the same direction" and are interested in meeting others like you, you're in luck. Chicago has its own chapter of the Circumnavigators Club. Oh, and your travel doesn't have to be in the same trip.
Sun April 22 2007 Found on the Web

The Only Mayor of Rosemont
Donald E. Stephens, Rosemont's only mayor, died in office after 51 years of service. He saw the transformation of "a collection of septic fields and houses of prostitution" into a convention destination.
Thu April 19 2007 People/Sightings

An Expensive Hat
Bears linebacker Brian Urlacher was fined $100,000 for wearing an unsanctioned hat during an NFL event. I wonder how much additional advertising this fine will provide for the brand in question.
Thu April 19 2007 Sports/Recreation

O'Hare: Not Just for the Jet Set
Check out WBEZ's fascinating story about Chicago's asylum seekers, which focuses on one of the dozen Tibetans who have sought asylum at O'Hare over the last year.
Wed April 18 2007 In the News

Richard Nickel's Photographs on the Radio
Yesterday, All Things Considered ran Edward Lifson's fine examination of the architectural preservation photography book Richard Nickel's Chicago. Bonus: the song that plays at the end of the piece is from the Rachel's album Music for Egon Schiele, which was composed for a Chicago theater production.
Tue April 17 2007 Books/Authors

Transportation Dream Come True
After years of feet dragging, it looks like the CTA, Metra and Pace will finally create a unified fare card.
Mon April 16 2007 Transportation

Goodbye, Blue Monday
Novelist, essayist, playwright, artist, activist, and, yes, City News Bureau of Chicago reporter, In These Times contributor and University of Chicago graduate, Kurt Vonnegut, has died. "So it goes."
Thu April 12 2007 People/Sightings

Cubs as Commodity
Take a gander at the queue for buying "a shrine, a team and a great place to watch baseball."
Wed April 11 2007 Sports/Recreation

A Very Small Museum
Michael Horvich is more than a supernumerary, he's the curator of Michael's Museum. Unfortunately, the physical museum is currently not open to the public, presumably due to high demand because of a recent Tribune article. For now, enjoy the photographs and lists.
Wed April 11 2007 Found on the Web

Myron Goldsmith's Modernism
The Arts Club of Chicago, which apparently doesn't have a website, is hosting an excellent retrospective of Myron Goldsmith's architectural and teaching career. Go before the show closes on April 13, if for no other reason than to see the model of the unrealized Ruck-a-Chucky Bridge in person. While you're at it, the club has an interesting history that's worth reviewing.
Tue April 10 2007 Arts/Architecture

Get Schooled
If you are interested in education research, you may want to check out the annual meeting of the American Educational Research Association, which is in town this week. Events are open to the public, but you'll need to pay the hefty registration fee.
Mon April 9 2007 Schools/Education

Beyond the Concert Hall
The Chicago Symphony Orchestra is taking great strides to expand its audience and influence, notably including a retooled nationally syndicated radio program and a performance and educational video series.
Mon April 9 2007 Music/Clubs

Chicago History Roundup
From the establishment of the Hull House Theater to the World's Columbian Exposition, the Sun Times lists their take on "The 50 Greatest Chicago Moments."
Sun April 8 2007 History

Click!
Photobooth-o-philes, get excited! You'll soon be able to take a zany picture of yourself and your close friends at Quimby's.
Thu April 5 2007 Stuff

Take Me Out to the Ball Game or China
As it turns out, Crain's has a pretty decent photo gallery. The most recent set documents the White Sox opener, while previous features range from McDonald's in China to Delhi, India.
Wed April 4 2007 Photography

Dance Floor Disaster
Lacey Hindman knows another way work parties can turn into excruciating pain.
Tue April 3 2007 In the News

Use the Force (to Pick a Stamp Design)
R2D2 is roaming the city, and it wants you to visit the "Jedi Shipping and Mailing Master" to vote for your favorite Star Wars stamps.
Mon April 2 2007 Stuff

The Last Lamb and Veal Slaughterhouse in Chicago
Now that Easter and Passover are almost here, the New York Times offers two features on Chiappetti Lamb and Veal. NOTE: The first link is a TimesSelect article, so if you aren't enrolled in the program, you can either sign up or start a free trial. If you are a student or faculty member with a .edu email address, you can get a full account for free right now.
Sun April 1 2007 History

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

How Much for a Really Nice Week?
The Chicago Mercantile Exchange will be adding weekly weather futures in April. I'll take 15 degrees above average in Chicago for next week, please!
Mon March 12 2007 Business/Shopping

Did You Get that Letter I Mailed You?
While the Chicago mail service may no longer have 200 pounds of burning mail in Englewood, it's still the worst in the nation.
Mon March 12 2007 In the News

The South Side Chicago Board of Tourism
Convert your currency to South Side dollars while enjoying an unusual White Sox website.
Sat March 10 2007 Found on the Web

Spam Poetry Slam
Northwestern graduate student Kristin Thomas' spam poetry is getting attention. "Flesh Hungry Dogs, Jackhammer, Circuit and Chocolate," indeed!
Thu March 8 2007 Stuff

A Neighborhood's Tribute to Barack Obama
You're probably overwhelmed by articles about Barack Obama by now, but if you're still interested in learning about his local roots, you may want to check out the Hyde Park Herald's special Obama issue. The entire 24-page issue is Obama-centric, including a lengthy article about his wife, Michelle.
Thu March 8 2007 People/Sightings

5 1/2 Years of Chicago Prosecution
In the wake of recent federal prosecutor firings, the Tribune/L.A. Times is running a short profile of Chicago's current prosecutor, Patrick J. Fitzgerald. You may recognize him from a certain high-profile trial.
Wed March 7 2007 People/Sightings

Macbeth, Three Feet Tall
The Italian marionette performance company Carlo Colla e Figli begins its run of "Marionette Macbeth" at the Chicago Shakespeare Theater on Tuesday. Additional details are available in Slowdown.
Wed March 7 2007 Theatre/Dance

That's My $9.2 Million Home on N. Astor
If you're looking for the toniest neighborhood for your next real estate purchase, maybe you should check the Chicago Business High End Homes section. The feature includes maps, photos and sale prices for the most expensive homes in the region in 2006.
Tue March 6 2007 Arts/Architecture

New Direction for MCA
Robert Fitzpatrick, the Museum of Contemporary Art's Pritzker Director, will step down in 2008. His ten years in the job were marked by considerable change at the institution, including the acquisition of $16,000 worth of GAP t-shirts. So polish up your résumé and keep an eye on their job page!
Sat March 3 2007 Arts/Architecture

124 to 123
No one is declaring victory yet, but North Chicago Alderman Shaunese Teamer may have lost the primary to her challenger, Bobby Allen, by one vote.
Thu March 1 2007 Politics/Activism

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.
Thu March 1 2007 Outdoors/Environment

Uh, No, He's in Cambodia
Prospect Heights-based Alibi Network will construct elaborate lies on their clients' behalf. Given the copious amounts of stock photography and late 1990s web design, I thought this company was a hoax until I found their massive media archive.
Tue February 27 2007 Found on the Web

Our Aldermanic Felons
When at the polls today, don't forget that votes for wannabe Aldermen Virgil Jones or Ambrosio Medrano will not count.
Tue February 27 2007 Politics/Activism

Three Decades of Opinions
Now that the locally produced General Social Survey completed its 26th run, the New York Times published a sneak peek of the 2006 results. Some interesting findings include a precipitous drop in the percentage of those who have a "great deal of confidence" in the military since 2004, as well as a 50% decline in daily newspaper readership since 1972.
Sun February 25 2007 In the News

Granddad the Wii Master
Welcome to a world wherein grandparents in Lake County teach their grandchildren how to play video games.
Fri February 23 2007 Sports/Recreation

Chicago's Second "O"
Staying true to his base, Obama's current "O" logo was designed by locals Sender LLC. They got the job through an interesting chain that includes Chicago firms AKP Message & Media and mo/de.
Thu February 22 2007 Arts/Architecture

Cedar Court Threatened
The keystone building of a unique five house crescent development is currently threatened by demolition in Park Ridge. The houses are significant for a variety of reasons, including the fact that they were designed by Barry Byrne, one of Frank Lloyd Wright's disciples, and the sculptor Alfonso Iannelli. UPDATE: More photos are now available.
Wed February 21 2007 Arts/Architecture

Block 37
With cranes and earth moving equipment working on Block 37, Chicago Magazine has a nice summary of current events. After you read up on the block, view what's going on now from the comfort of your computer.
Tue February 20 2007 Business/Shopping

This Godless Communism
It's 1961 and the communists have overthrown the government of the United States of America. Prepare yourself for the U.S.S.A.! What is the communists' first step? Move the government to Merchandise Mart! As J. Edgar Hoover says, read this comic now in order to "help us recognize and detect communists as they attempt to infiltrate the various segments of our society."
Tue February 20 2007 History

Illinois Poverty on the Rise
The Heartland Alliance released [pdf] their "2007 Report on Illinois Poverty" yesterday. Key findings include 1.5 million people live in poverty in Illinois, and the poverty rate increased in 85% of Illinois counties, including Cook and its suburbs.
Fri February 16 2007 Resources

Best Headline of the Year
It's only February, but the Daily Southtown has already given cause for celebration (or is that panic?): "Snowmageddon has arrived!" Bonus points awarded for their photo of kids ramping their sled off of a folding table.
Tue February 13 2007 Stuff

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.
Mon February 12 2007 Music/Clubs

Chicago Adolescence
This month's Chicago Magazine contains a funny little feature providing high school portraits of area notables like Dave Eggers, Liz Phair, Harold Ramis and Donald Rumsfeld.
Sun February 11 2007 People/Sightings

Chicago 2106
Remember the "City of the Future" competition? The entry from local architecture and design firm UrbanLab won! One summary video is posted, and another is to be posted shortly.
Sat February 10 2007 Arts/Architecture

It's Official: Obama '08
Barack Obama's presidential candidacy speech.
Sat February 10 2007 Politics/Activism

Chicago's Architectural Prestige
The AIA recently surveyed 1,800 Americans about their favorite architecture and released the top 150 as a web feature. Chicago did well in the polls, with the third largest collection of "favorite" buildings in the country, behind New York and D.C. Some obvious Chicago favorites like Wrigley Field, the Tribune Tower and the Sears Tower are listed, but other buildings such as the United Airlines Terminal and the Harold Washington Library also made the cut.
Thu February 8 2007 Arts/Architecture

No Divestment for U of C
Citing the 1967 Kalven Report [pdf], the University of Chicago will not divest from companies involved with Sudanese business. It is the first top-tier university to make such a statement.
Wed February 7 2007 Schools/Education

ZAPping the Chicago Auto Show
ZAP!, a company that specializes in designing alternative and fuel-efficient automotive systems, will release its electric XEBRA car at the Chicago Auto Show. Priced at $10,000 with an operating cost of one cent per mile, it could certainly be a high-value commuter car.
Wed February 7 2007 Transportation

1,158 = More Than a Few Arts Organizations
The Gaylord and Dorothy Donnelley Foundation just completed its Chicago Region Arts Scan, a major research report surveying all non-profit arts organizations in the Chicago region in 2006. In addition to being a comprehensive directory, the report provides especially fascinating information pertaining to the growth, location, composition and funding of these organizations.
Tue February 6 2007 Arts/Architecture

Another Step Towards the Great Midwestern Megalopolis
Now that Kenosha, Racine and Milwaukee are seriously considering feeding into Metra, a Milwaukee historian has summarized the interesting transportation history we have with our neighbors to the north.
Mon February 5 2007 Transportation

Not Cheese at All
As Altria (formerly Philip Morris) prepares to spin-off suburban food giant Kraft, Crain's Chicago Business asks "What is 'Real Kraft Cheese'?" There's a hint in our title.
Mon February 5 2007 Stuff

Durbin's $750/mo Bachelor Pad (With Three Roomies)
How's this for an unusual look into the lives of our senior senator and his three high-powered roommates! Juicy tidbits include Durbin killing mice with his bare hands and his insistence on having a big screen television.
Fri February 2 2007 Politics/Activism

Aqua Teen Hunger (Terrorist) Force
The Aqua Teen Hunger Force advertisements that caused serious problems in Boston have been in Chicago for weeks. After all of the hubbub in Boston, most of ours were collected last night. [If you happened to snap a photo of the Chicago Ignignokts/Errs, please post it to our flickr pool for all to enjoy.]
Thu February 1 2007 In the News

IIT's TechNews Back Online
Fortunately, the irony that the Illinois Institute of Technology's student newspaper hadn't been updated since January 31, 2006 wasn't lost on its editors. Oh, irony, thou must find elsewhere to roost.
Tue January 30 2007 Schools/Education

Daley Granted Another Wish
Starting in the 2008-2009 school year, Lindblom Math & Science Academy will be the first CPS high school to shift to a year-round schedule. Bonus nonsensical Daley quote: "If we can spend billions of dollars to put a person on the moon, how, in this day and age, can we give kids two months off?"
Tue January 30 2007 Schools/Education

Disappointed Fans and Blocked Media
The Mount Prospect Costco turned away disappointed fans and at least one camera crew after it stipulated that William "Refrigerator" Perry could only sign Costco-bought items. (Video has additional details.)
Sun January 28 2007 Sports/Recreation

One in Two Hundred
What appeared to be the theft of an original Monadnock Building ornament turned out to be the theft of the only replica ornament in the building.
Sat January 27 2007 Arts/Architecture

"Free Portraits Inside"
Check out this recent write-up of Thomas Marlow's Chicago Street Studio Project in the Australian media.
Thu January 25 2007 Photography

Texting for Public Transportation Change
Thanks to Neighbors Project, you don't have to get off of the train or bus to meaningfully express your frustration with the CTA. Power up your phone and text cta[your zip code]@npjt.org to send the message featured here to Mayor Daley, as well as your alderman, state representative and state senator. Their website also offers the means to spread the word.
Wed January 24 2007 Transportation

Thank You for Voting
More details are emerging about the Chicago Board of Elections' release of 1.3 million voters' personal information.
Tue January 23 2007 In the News

Heavier Wallets
The U.S. Mint announced that the new $1 Washington coin will be released in Chicago and Houston on February 15.
Sun January 21 2007 In the News

Another - Ahem - Twist for Chicago Spire
After a significant design change in December, the Chicago Spire is losing the blunt top and undergoing further changes, ~~although the current plans have not been publicly released~~ [UPDATE: and sketches are now available].
Sat January 20 2007 Arts/Architecture

Monkey Money Madness
Those wacky Sun-Times staffers are at it again with this year's monkey stock market picks. As you'd expect, "Mr. Adam Monk," the primate in question, has beaten the major indices for the last four years. After you take in the monkey madness, pull a stock out of a hat and enter their contest for most appreciating stock.
Wed January 17 2007 Stuff

11:55
UPDATE: Citing a "second nuclear age" and "climate change," the Bulletin of the Atomic Scientists has moved the Doomsday Clock to five minutes to midnight.
Wed January 17 2007 In the News

Public Art on the Expressway
A number of children working with the Little Black Pearl Art & Design Center have submitted public art concepts for the new Dan Ryan retaining walls. Vote for your favorite today.
Tue January 16 2007 Arts/Architecture

How Many Minutes Until Midnight?
What's going to happen to the Bulletin of the Atomic Scientists' Doomsday Clock on January 17?
Mon January 15 2007 In the News

Maybe You Shouldn't Have Another
Following up on a recent government report [pdf] ranking Chicago as the top binge drinking city in the U.S., the Sun-Times dropped by the Chicago Social Drinking Project lab.
Sun January 14 2007 Eating/Drinking

Oh, Chicago Airports, Why Do You Hate Us?
For all the trouble at O'Hare, it looks like Midway isn't safe either.
Fri January 12 2007 Stuff

Double Trouble at O'Hare
The next time you're flying out of O'Hare, check the sky for UFOs, then check under your seat for scorpions.
Thu January 11 2007 Stuff

Teens at the Wheel
If you only read the print version of the Tribune's special report about fatal accidents involving teenage drivers, you may want to check out their special online year-end summary. Additionally, CTA Tattler offers some food for thought about why so few of those accidents may have been in Chicago.
Tue January 9 2007 In the News

Months of Great [Insert Cultural Activity Here]
The Tribune offers a fine selection of art exhibits worth checking out in the coming months, including some out-of-the-way gems. Other informative prospective pieces include features about architecture, dance, and jazz, to name a few.
Mon January 8 2007 Arts/Architecture

Our Environmental Report Card
Conscious Choice provides a quick rundown of Chicago's environmental status, including an interview with Mayor Daley.
Sun January 7 2007 Outdoors/Environment

How Do You Feel About Wednesday?
NPR documents the debate over the University of Chicago's future acceptance of the Common Application. The university will continue to use parts of its Uncommon Application, but that doesn't mean everyone's happy. If you're curious about all the fuss, read some previous Uncommon questions.
Sun January 7 2007 Schools/Education

Chicago of the Future
The History Channel recently asked designers to submit concepts of their cities 100 years in the future. Teams from Chicago, New York and Los Angeles are now facing off for the grand prize. Check out and possibly vote for Chicago's entry from UrbanLab today.
Thu January 4 2007 Arts/Architecture

Watch Out Below!
Well, really, there's no reason to worry about the car dangling off of Marina City. [UPDATE: Visit Rearview for a photo.]
Wed January 3 2007 Stuff

Digital vs. Print Media
The Tribune and the Sun Times are further trimming their print publications in response to digital media. What will go next?
Tue January 2 2007 Print/Magazines

"Weather Phenomenon" or Something Else?
Some United employees saw a UFO at O'Hare on November 7th, but the FAA's having none of it.
Mon January 1 2007 Stuff

Ride CTA on the Cheap
As in past years, you can ride CTA busses and trains for one cent until 6:00 AM New Year's Day. (Also note extended hours on some routes.) Happy New Year!
Sun December 31 2006 Transportation

New Year, New Laws
Starting January 1, a host of new laws will become active. A couple of laws that are likely relevant to you: one will require most Illinoisans to install a carbon monoxide detector in their home, while another will require state phone systems to give callers an early option of talking to a real person.
Fri December 29 2006 In the News

President Ford and Chicago
While I'm sure you've read several national tributes to President Ford, his local connections deserve a mention.
Fri December 29 2006 In the News

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?
Thu December 28 2006 Outdoors/Environment

Chicago's Video Game Influence
Online gaming magazine Gamasutra just released the final installment of its five-part series on Chicago game studios. The final stop is Midway.
Wed December 27 2006 Sports/Recreation

Scared of Santa Again
If you're looking for a holiday laugh, check out the Tribune's reader-submitted "Scared of Santa" photo gallery. (Link pops due to window resizing.)
Sun December 24 2006 Photography

Case Settled, Journalist's Notes Protected, First Amendment Untested
The First Amendment lawsuit against online journalist Jamie Kalven has now officially been dropped [starts on bottom]. Kalven refused to hand over his notes about a police brutality case, testing journalistic privilege for online reporters; however, because a settlement was reached between the city and the woman alleging abuse, the First Amendment issue was never fully tested.
Thu December 21 2006 In the News

Experience Quimby's from Your Computer
I don't know how many times I've been to the Quimby's site, but I'd never noticed the "live at quimby's" section until this morning. It has audio recordings from almost two-dozen events, although the one I really wanted to hear (Al Burian) is broken.
Tue December 19 2006 Found on the Web

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.
Tue December 19 2006 In the News

Where Will Finkl Go?
A. Finkl and Sons Co., the steel company located in the thick of the booming north side, recently announced it will be acquired by a German steel firm. Finkl simultaneously announced that it will build a new plant. Will it stay in Chicago, and what will happen with its current site?
Sun December 17 2006 In the News

The Life of a City Squirrel
UIC biologist Joel Brown wants to know how squirrels survive the dangers of city life in Chicago.
Sun December 17 2006 Found on the Web

The Laboratory Influence
Crain's provides an interesting profile of the University of Chicago Laboratory Schools and their business and political influence. Bonus: Parker and Latin alumni get a little catty.
Sat December 16 2006 Schools/Education

Is Something Awry in Bearsland?
The house of Chicago Bears defensive linebacker Tank Johnson was raided today. No one's talking about what went down, but a man was led from the home in handcuffs and "items sought in the warrant were recovered inside the home." [Update: Johnson has been charged with firearms violations.]
Thu December 14 2006 In the News

Another National Museum
In other Pilsen news, the Mexican Fine Arts Center Museum has a new name: The National Museum of Mexican Art.
Wed December 13 2006 Arts/Architecture

WBEZ's 2007 Schedule
After much controversy, WBEZ released its 2007 schedule last month. It's important to note that music, the focus of most of the debate, was not eliminated. The Tribune provides an opinionated but informative summary.
Tue December 12 2006 Radio/TV

YoChicago's Pilsen Week
YoChicago is dedicating much of this week's coverage to Pilsen, with reviews, real estate coverage, and much more. Their YouTube Pilsen playlist is especially worth checking out.
Tue December 12 2006 In the News

Call for Nominations: 35 Under 35
The Community Renewal Society is requesting nominations for their 35 Under 35 Leadership Awards. This Chicagoland-oriented award recognizes individuals under the age of 35 who are "using fresh approaches to tackle pressing social issues."
Fri December 8 2006 Politics/Activism

Let the Revisions Begin!
Now that Santiago Calatrava's Chicago Spire is moving closer to its groundbreaking, the project is changing.
Thu December 7 2006 Arts/Architecture

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.
Wed December 6 2006 Health/Fitness

Beyond Education Sound Bites
If you'd like to know more about the Chicago Public Schools than what you can discern from short, mass media pieces, check out Catalyst Chicago, the local outpost of the urban education magazine. Be certain to visit the guide to CPS and research sections, which provide original content and links to research institutions.
Wed December 6 2006 Schools/Education

"How cool would it be to have Quidditch at Soldier Field?"
Plans are underway for a Harry Potter conference in Chicago in August 2008. It looks like it will be organized by these people.
Mon December 4 2006 Offbeat/Misc. Events

Not a City of Chicago Headline
Apparently, it's news when there's graffiti in Blue Island.
Sun December 3 2006 In the News

More Help for CPS Students
Following last month's announcement from Roosevelt University, IIT is offering Chicago Public Schools students a full ride, provided they meet admissions and financial criteria.
Thu November 30 2006 Schools/Education

Charlie Trotter II
It's going to be a while, but Charlie Trotter is planning on opening a new restaurant in the Elysian Hotel. Yum!
Wed November 29 2006 Eating/Drinking

Johnny Five, Alive!
A number of robots will soon see action in Chicago. Oh, and one of them is named "Frank."
Fri November 17 2006 Stuff

Milton Friedman Dead at 94
Milton Friedman, University of Chicago Nobel laureate in economics, passed away today.
Thu November 16 2006 In the News

Yes, Our Cabbies are That Good
One might think that 5,700 complaints against Chicago cab drivers would be a record high, but it's a 17% drop.
Tue November 14 2006 In the News

Do I Say "Buy 'em" or "Sold"?
As the Chicago Board of Trade and the Chicago Mercantile Exchange prepare to merge, trading floor culture may become an issue.
Mon November 13 2006 In the News

Base Camp Best Buy
Console Camp, a new, Chicago-based game console blog, carries news and will provide details about the best camping spots for the Wii and the PS3. And in the spirit of democratic media, you can even post to it via email!
Fri November 10 2006 Found on the Web

Independent News In Training
A group of graduate students at the Medill School of Journalism recently founded The Methods Reporter to share their unpublished work. The stories have a broad range, and they have particularly interesting coverage of community-based arts.
Thu November 9 2006 In the News

The Sausage Vat Murderer vs. H. H. Holmes
How much do you know about bizarre Chicagoland murders? Take this short quiz and find out!
Wed November 8 2006 History

Committees, Cardinals and Consumer Protection
Given yesterday's election results, Crain's "what if" article about House Democratic committee positions deserves a closer read.
Wed November 8 2006 Politics/Activism

The Underground Economy ... In Person!
If you enjoyed Sudhir Venkatesh's article in the Boston Globe, you may want to check out his talk on Thursday. Details in Slowdown.
Mon November 6 2006 Books/Authors

Eaaaaarrrrllllyyy Admission
Today Roosevelt University offered all first and second year students at Social Justice High School a full ride, provided they graduate with at least a 3.0 GPA, earn a 20 or higher on the ACTs, and fulfill a handful of other obligations. Good luck, high schoolers!
Tue October 31 2006 Schools/Education

Free Boo-rito
In other fast food news: dress up like a burrito and get one free.
Tue October 31 2006 Eating/Drinking

Falling Back and Fond Farewells
Don't forget to set your clock back one hour on Sunday morning, and when you do, say "good bye" to making the switch in October. Thanks to the Energy Policy Act of 2005, Daylight Savings Time will henceforth end on the first Sunday in November, undoubtedly causing trouble for college Halloween parties.
Sat October 28 2006 In the News

The New Suburban Venue
Now that the Sears Centre is officially open, the Daily Herald offers a review of its first night in action, and the Sun Times and the Trib provide some background.
Fri October 27 2006 City Life/Cultural

In the Market for a Rollercoaster?
If so, head out to East Dundee for the Santa's Village auction. Don't forget to check out the full catalog [PDF] and supplementary photos so you'll be fully prepared to bid.
Tue October 24 2006 Offbeat/Misc. Events

Cafeteria Critiques Not Cutting It
At least five suburban student newspapers are in trouble, and as Northwestern School of Journalism Dean Richard Roth puts it, "I hope they're not going out of business. We have enough problems with newspapers without losing them in high school."
Sun October 22 2006 In the News

She's the Running Back
Meet Lasaadia Jones, the first female varsity football player in Chicago Public League history.
Thu October 19 2006 Sports/Recreation

Get Your Spook On
This Halloween season has plenty to offer the ghoul lurking inside of you. Unusual offerings include KFAR's Spookagogue Synagogue, the Apollo Theater's Haunting History, the Six Corners Monster Film Festival, and Ursula Bielski's Creepy Chicago Hauntings. Check slowdown for additional options.
Tue October 17 2006 Offbeat/Misc. Events

Another Change in South Grant Park
It's almost time to say "goodbye" to the wooden bridge from the Roosevelt Metra station to Michigan Avenue. So break out your camera and sepia processing and take some old-time photographs this winter.
Thu October 12 2006 Arts/Architecture

Open Letter to Criminals: Stay Away from MySpace
Another from our neck of the woods.
Wed October 11 2006 Found on the Web

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.
Tue October 10 2006 In the News

Podcast addicts, rejoice!
insideChicago can provide you with another fix. It currently produces two programs: STOP! Police, a weekly news of the weird podcast, and insideChicago, an offbeat arts and entertainment video podcast that is published twice a week.
Sat October 7 2006 Found on the Web

I Love My Sister, She's the Best!
As we noted back in 2003, Chicago has a lot of sister cities: 25, to be exact. If you're interested in learning more about them, Crain's has an interesting story about the business side of the program, including a list of events that connect us to places like Amman, Milan, and Petach Tikva.
Mon October 2 2006 City Life/Cultural

What's the worst building in your neighborhood?
Following the Tribune's list of ugly Loop buildings, the Chicago Journal is asking for nominations for the worst buildings in your neighborhood. There's only one nomination so far, so let the archislaying begin.
Sat September 30 2006 Arts/Architecture

Another Reason to Look Up
Early Friday morning, two people BASE jumped from a downtown crane. This is the second noted jump in as many weeks.
Sat September 30 2006 In the News

How and Where to Eat Bo Nuong
If you've ever wondered about the proper way to eat foods like thali, bo nuong and injera, a Tribune video story has you covered. Watch the video and then check out the restaurants they recommend.
Sun September 24 2006 Eating/Drinking

Chicago Movie Magic
We all know that the Art Institute was a location for Ferris Bueller's Day Off, but did you know that Gerri's Palm Tavern was a location for The Sixth Sense? MovieMappr knows, and it will show you where Gerri's was.
Fri September 22 2006 Found on the Web

Walking in Chicago
With all of this walking around Chicago, why not take an idiosyncratic video stroll through the city?
Tue September 19 2006 Found on the Web

Shimer College, Welcome to Chicago!
On October 8, the Shimer College Convocation and Reception will take place somewhere new: IIT's main campus. The Great Books college will still have some operations in Waukegan, but most activity will be in Chicago.
Mon September 18 2006 Schools/Education

Community Murals Destroyed
Speaking of Chicago Street Art, on September 7, the Higher Gliffs murals at the Metra underpass at 47th Street and Lake Park were mistakenly painted over. Among those who worked on the murals are former Art Institute Instructor Mario Gonzalez; founder of the University of Hip Hop, Lavie Raven; and youth organizer Sam Mulberry.
Tue September 12 2006 Arts/Architecture

So I Guess Indy Cars aren't Street Legal
Does anyone know why there was an Indy racecar pulled over on Damen the other night?
Mon September 11 2006 Found on the Web

Chicago: Present at the Creation
NPR's Present at the Creation provides unique insight to some Chicago-related icons. Our fair city pops up in some obvious place like Animal House, A Raisin in the Sun , and Nighthawks, but it's also there for Cracker Jacks!
Tue September 5 2006 Radio/TV

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.
Wed August 30 2006 History

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.
Tue August 29 2006 Transportation

Fly Like an Eagle into Where?
It may not be Meigs Field, but Howell-New Lenox Airport is the most recent casualty in the battle between development and area airports.
Sun August 27 2006 Transportation

A Newer, Larger Punk Planet
Taking another step away from scissors, glue, and late night photocopying sessions, our city's very own Punk Planet has redesigned and expanded its website. Of particular note is the addition of user blogs.
Thu August 24 2006 Found on the Web

Make Chicagoans Laugh
We usually just let you know when the Chicago Sketch Comedy Festival is actively making people laugh, but check this out: the 2007 Festival is currently accepting applications for sketch group participation.
Thu August 24 2006 Theatre/Dance

Expertocity
You've been writing that article about wine and trust and deception for a few weeks now, but it's missing that certain something. Could it be a quote from a local expert?
Mon August 21 2006 Resources

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?
Wed August 16 2006 Found on the Web

We're Older, More Educated, and More Hispanic
Today, the Census Bureau released new data from its American Community Survey. The Sun-Times gives a quick summary.
Tue August 15 2006 In the News

No, Jane, Denver is the Capital of the United States
Becoming a social studies or history teacher just got considerably easier in Illinois. The Illinois State Board of Education lowered the passing grade on their test to 57%. That's right: you can fail and still pass.
Fri August 11 2006 Schools/Education

The Journey is the Destination
If you're yearning for some travel (video), check out YouTube user Srovetz's atmospheric videos documenting his train and car travel throughout the country. There are too many Chicago related videos to post here, but some train segments include Kansas City to Chicago, Chicago to New Orleans, and Chicago to New York.
Sun August 6 2006 Found on the Web

Why I Go to School: Free Tickets!
In a move to boost Chicago Public Schools' attendance rates, the district has partnered with sports teams, radio stations, and even Southwest Airlines for the Back to School Sports Challenge. While some prizes will be handed out just for attendance, essayists can win a trip to Disney World or a chance to be a DJ on Power 92. So, kids, see how rewarding staying in school can be?
Wed August 2 2006 Schools/Education

More Midwestern Pride
Meet another website devoted to the wonders of the Midwest: Midwestern Goodness. While they have content from around the region, they recently filmed a short video tour in Chicago. More Chicago content is in the works.
Mon July 31 2006 Found on the Web

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.
Sun July 30 2006 Outdoors/Environment

Show WLUW some LUV
Remember when you donated items to independent community radio station WLUW in June? Well, those items are now for sale to raise money for the station. Some particularly interesting finds are an autographed Mekons guitar, a drawing by Archer Prewitt, and a Fugazi/Shellac/The Ex ticket printing plate.
Tue July 25 2006 Radio/TV

Become the Media
Do you dream about sitting side-by-side with Edward Lifson or "identifying and researching mid-level and major donor prospects"? If so, become a Chicago Public Radio intern! WBEZ extended its fall deadline, but you don't have much time: applications are due on the 28th.
Tue July 25 2006 Radio/TV

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.
Fri July 21 2006 Arts/Architecture

Grant Park in Your Living Room
The Grant Park Orchestra recently released two new albums. So enjoy the GPO on the lawn or in your easy chair!
Wed July 19 2006 Music/Clubs

Eggvertising
Since we're all bored with the pristine surface of eggs, a Deerfield company is teaming up with CBS to put advertisements and expiration dates on 35 million of them. Look (out) for them in your local grocery store.
Tue July 18 2006 Offbeat/Misc. Events

Summer with the Boys
The New York Times notes that the near west coast of Michigan is an increasingly gay-friendly vacation destination. So hop in a car or catch a train and have some fun.
Sat July 15 2006 Sports/Recreation

Illinois Championship Cow Chip Throw
Like me, you're probably upset that you missed the Illinois Championship Cow Chip Throw in Chatham, Illinois today. But dry your eyes! You can still make the Wisconsin State Cow Chip Throw in September.
Sat July 15 2006 Offbeat/Misc. Events

H-O-T and Muggy
Just in time for major athletic events, the National Weather Service released an Excessive Heat Watch for our region. Keep cool for the next few days, and don't forget what happens when it gets hot, hot, hot outside.
Fri July 14 2006 In the News

Thinking Allowed in Chicago
In 2002, BBC Radio 4's Thinking Allowed visited Chicago to do a five-part series about the city in the spirit of early Chicago School sociologists. With interviews from prominent Chicago academics, musicians, and public thinkers, the programs are surprisingly fresh four years later.
Tue July 11 2006 Radio/TV

Hey, is that building a landmark?
The city's Landmarks Division has prepared interactive Chicago Landmarks Maps that include photographs and important information about officially notable places. While you're on their website, check out their comprehensive Historic Resources Survey and other fascinating resources.
Tue July 11 2006 Arts/Architecture

Your bus is aflame? Fear not.
The ever civic-minded Red Eye has released a series of tips from CTA spokeswoman Robyn Ziegler for "CTA safety." As for your flaming bus? "[T]ell the bus driver."
Tue July 11 2006 Offbeat/Misc. Events

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!
Sun July 9 2006 Outdoors/Environment

Bicyclist killed on Chicago Avenue
Manuel Tenecota, an Ecuadorian immigrant, was hit and killed by a CTA bus earlier today. He was just two blocks from his home. His death is the second bicycle-motorist fatality in as many weeks.
Fri July 7 2006 In the News

Need more Tut?
If the Field Museum's Tutankhamun exhibit piqued your interest, head to the Oriental Institute's dual exhibitions of artifacts from the Tut era and Harry Burton's photographs of the Tutankhamun expedition. If you have an mp3 player, don't forget to download the podcast ahead of time.
Thu July 6 2006 Arts/Architecture

Open but no cheap date night
Did you notice that the City North and Webster Place movie theaters went M.I.A. a couple of weeks ago? Well, they were casualties of the Loews-AMC merger and decisions of various authorities. While cheap night may be gone, Kerasotes bought the two theaters, and they're open again. UPDATE: Reader Meghan writes, "I went to City North 14 on Tuesday and got the usual $5 movie, free popcorn, and free parking. Looks like cheap night's not gone afterall!"
Thu July 6 2006 Film

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David Schalliol