Meet the 2008 Illinois Environmental Heroes
The increasingly relevant Lt. Quinn announced the 2008 Environmental Hero Awards featuring more than a handful of Chicagoans.
Gapers Block has ceased publication.
Gapers Block published from April 22, 2003 to Jan. 1, 2016. The site will remain up in archive form. Please visit Third Coast Review, a new site by several GB alumni.
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TODAY
Monday, November 24
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December 2008
Seats for Sale
Leather Creations scores on sarcasm with this ad mocking the Blagojevich scandal.
In Your Face! (Theoretically Speaking)
Ah, there's nothing more exciting than an academic smackdown, like the one between U of C economist and Freakonomics author Steven Levitt and Northwestern Northeastern criminologist James Alan Fox on the subject of black teen murder rates. Levitt criticized Fox for "ominous reports he produced about juvenile homicide...in the 1990s." Oh, snap!
The Senate Race Card
Gawker has an interesting take on Blagojevich's decision to name Burris to Obama's vacant senate seat: "seat [him] or you hate black people." Also, Burris apparently already has already prepared his grave (his real one, not his political one.)
Introducing Senator Burris
Gov. Blagojevich is expected to name former state Attorney General Roland Burris as Obama's Senator replacement today, although the appointment could be impacted by Senator Majority Leader Harry Reid, who has previously said he wouldn't seat Blagojevich's nominee. Burris also formerly served as the state comptroller, and unsuccessfully ran for governor three times. More in Mechanics.
Blue on the Beach
A Blue Man Group actor and a suburban assistant principal were arrested for having sex in Lincoln Park near Montrose Harbor last night. That will not end well. UPDATE: Blue Man Group issued a statement saying that the man arrested has never been a member of the cast.
'Hole' Lot of Shakin'
Our city's freaky up-and-down weather has one bone-jarring side effect: potholes. As of Monday there were more than 1,100 dotting the city landscape and threatening to bust axles. The city says it's on it and you can file a claim for any damages. Incidentially, if you're driving east past the Heart 'O' Chicago motel, don't let that shallow looking puddle on the right side of the road fool you. Trust me.
If All Else Fails, Make 'Em Pay
Breathalyzer installation: $80. Monthly equipment and monitoring fees: $110. Taking a cab and avoiding the whole mess: Priceless. Illinois is gearing up for a whole new type of crackdown on first-time DUI offenders in the new year, hoping that inconvenience, cost and embarrassment will be enough to dissuade potential drunk drivers. [via]
Another Criminal No-No
When preparing for your next bank robbery, you may want to use a blank sheet of paper for your note to the teller. You wouldn't want to use your pay stub or something...
Start the Year Off Pants-Free
No Pants 2K9, a nationwide project run by NYC-based Improv Everywhere (remember them from This American Life?), makes a stop in Chicago on January 10. If you're willing to brave the CTA in your bloomers, hop aboard.
Checking on the CTA's "No Return Trip" Policy
Chicago Carless follows up on his story breaking the CTA's homeless ridership crackdown with a late-night ride with the Chicago Coalition for the Homeless.
Chicago Public School's Greatest Hits
CPSAlumni.org has put together an iTunes playlist of songs by artists who attended Chicago Public Schools, from Benny Goodman and Nat "King" Cole to Kanye West and Lupe Fiasco.
Bear Downer
Even with their Playoff Express cleared for landing (thanks to losses by Dallas and Tampa Bay), the Bears still managed to crash and burn. Their loss to Houston knocked them out of the playoff picture and now the autopsies begin. But despite the disappointment, the Bleacher Report says we shouldn't have been surprised.
The Great Bar Migration
The semi-trailer long bar from the Black Orchid Club has gone south to take up residence in a new Phoenix, Arizona bar that is due to open toward the end of 2009. At least it will be warmer where it is headed.
Batman III, Up Close
More rumors abound about the siting of the newest Batman franchise in Chicago, along with some other details.
The Good and the Meh
The Drive-Thru staff reflects on the highs and lows of their year of Chicago eating in this week's Drive-Thru feature.
Somewhere, James Frey is Laughing
Angel at the Fence, the forthcoming memoir stemming from an account of a teenaged prisoner at a Nazi concentration camp who was kept alive by food tossed to him through a barbed wire fence by a young girl whom he would later marry, has been cancelled by its publisher after the author's agent revealed that the story was a hoax. Oprah has deemed Herman Rosenblat's account to be "the single greatest love story...we've ever told on the air" and has had Rosenblat on her show twice. Rosenblat is hoping for a third visit so that he can explain why he lied.
Thumbs Up for Acrostics
One of Ebert's fans created a sextuple acrostic in the critic's honor.
Weather Report: Are Locusts Next?
First snow hit the city, then ice, then fog...and now, today's temperatures will be in the mid-60s, along with flooding dangers due to rain and melting remnants of the past two weeks, which has already closed part of the Dan Ryan and streets near the Des Plaines and Du Page rivers. Check traffic before you get on the roads.
Spire-ling Downward
The construction of the beleaguered Chicago Spire has a new headache: Dublin-based Anglo Irish Bank Corp., who is the main lender of the Spire's developer, is going through its own American-style financial woes with the resignation of a president who concealed $121 million in personal loans and rapidly falling stock values.
Ice, Ice Baby
You weren't the only one who was having trouble negotiating their way around town over all that ice. A few other people did their share of slippin' and slidin' too.
Segregated Chicago
"[B]lacks in Chicago are the most isolated racial group in the nation's 20 largest cities, according to a Tribune analysis of 2008 population estimates. To truly integrate Chicago, 84 percent of the black or white population would need to change neighborhoods."
The Dopplr Effect
Dopplr is a sort of social network about travel. They just launched pages for each city people go to -- here's Chicago's.
Transmission Takes a Look Back
We peer back over our shoulders at 2008's best music over in Transmission. Take a look and let us know what you loved best about the year in Chicago music (and beyond).
Helping New Year's Resolutions
Said you'd exercise more? The Chicago Park District's 60 fitness centers are there for you: the first two weeks of the new year are free.
Bargain Family Jewels
Bernard Madoff's $50 billion fraud is having a trickle-down effect in Chicago: Many Palm Beach millionaires have been forced to sell their jewelry, so they've turned to House of Kahn Estate Jewelers for assistance. Some of the pieces have found their way to House of Kahn's Chicago location, where you might be able to purchase them at a 50-60% discount. Of course, in the world of high-end jewelry, that means they're now priced anywhere from $20,000-$100,000.
Caganer You Can Believe In
Last-minute holiday shoppers, take note: you can buy a Barack Obama caganer for those folks on your Christmas list who have everything. [via]
The Next Junior Senator
GB past contributor Ted McClelland on why maybe Blagojevich should be allowed to pick a replacement for Obama.
O'Hare: First in Flight, Last in Food
The New York Times takes a look at seven airports to see what kind of food awaits travelers hoping for a bit in between flights. O'Hare ranks at the bottom of the list of airport cuisine: "particularly disappointing since Chicago is one of America's great restaurant cities." [via]
500
With Monday night's slaying, there have been 500 murders in Chicago this year.
Pardon Me
President Bush announced his list of pardons for this year. Former governor George Ryan is not on the list (and really, no one of celebrity is), but James Won Hee Kang of South Barrington made the cut; in 1985, he was sentenced to one year of probation and a $5,000 fine for trafficking in counterfeit goods.
Weather Worries
Hope you're not headed out of town today -- the weather has snarled pretty much every mode of transportation: planes, trains and automobiles. Even ice skates.
Campus Guardians
No matter how cold the weather, the University of Chicago gargoyles remain ever vigilant.
Another New Grad on the Job Market
An 80-year-old man received his associates degree in General Studies from Harper College.
At Least He Won't Be Wearing a Stovepipe Hat (?)
Obama not only plans to get to his inauguration the same way Abraham Lincoln did, but he'll also be using Lincoln's bible during the swearing-in ceremony.
Unbreakable?
A man flew 125 feet off of the Dan Ryan this morning when his car struck a wall and "ejected" him. The Stroger Hospital spokesman reported that his injuries are not life-threatening.
Is the "Chicago School" Dead?
Has the "Chicago school" of economics, as championed by Milton Friedman, been killed by the current economy and political climate? Some are saying so.
Unsleepy, Undead to Unite?
Ever stretching the boundaries of the English language, the AP introduces the term "unsleepy."
Do They Sell 'Just For Presidents'?
Usually it takes four years in office for it to happen, but grey hair has already been spotted sprouting on Barack Obama's head. Judge for yourself here (from a 2007 photo) and here (on the cover of Rolling Stone from this year).
Buffalo Grove Bathrooms Presumably Safe Again
... that is, since cops caught the guy videotaping a women's restroom.
Presumed Innocent ...and Crazy
"Governor Rod Blagojevich's press conference on Friday was short on details but long on cheerleader rhetoric." Chicago lawyer and crime novelist Scott Turow weighs in on the Blagojevich scandal, and how he might get off.
The Mall-fication of Wrigleyville
Did you know there's a huge "mixed use mega-complex" in development for the southeast corner of Clark and Addison? Addison Park on Clark would take out all the businesses on the east side of Clark Street all the way down to The Irish Oak.
Belmont Back to "Normal"
The CTA returned the Belmont station to four-track service on Saturday, much to the relief of commuters. Meanwhile the tunnels got some glow-in-the-dark paint.
Creative Loafing, Financially Drowning
A bankruptcy judge denied a motion by creditors of Reader publisher Creative Loafing to take control of the company, despite a creditor's statement that CL "is really way under water." Yikes.
Want to Buy a Printing Plant?
The S-T announced plans to close and put one of its printing plants in the Plainfield area up for sale by April.
School's Out Forever
As many as 20 CPS schools could be consolidated or closed by the next school year. The list of affected schools will be released in mid-January.
Less Swearing More Washing
I have a feeling this particular inspector got an earful. The Wiener Circle is having some minor health inspection issues. (Share your thoughts in Drive-Thru.)
Pervs on the CTA
Unfortunately sometimes public indecency is a fact of life on public transportation. CTA Tattler has a good post exposing one particular lowlife and some suggestions on what to do if you become a victim.
Jones Big Ass New Years Eve
Did you really like that spoof commercial for Jones Big Ass Truck Rental and Storage? If so, you may want to pick up tickets for New Years at the Lakeshore Theater -- they're only $20 and Robert L. Hines (aka "Toby Jones") performs and debuts his follow-up commercial.
61 Unlucky Winners, 169 Upset Runners Up
The Cook County Sheriff's latest sting to arrest those with outstanding warrants involved a "sweepstakes" called Shoptastic Solutions. When people attempted to collect their prizes, they were arrested.
Getting More Than What You Paid For
The Trib's investigation of food mislabeling and hidden allergens found 117 products that violate federal law. While seeking the correct ingredient listings, it also conducted more food laboratory tests than the USDA and FDA have done -- combined -- over the last several years. How many tests did the Trib do? Fifty.
Don't You Want Me, Baby?
Drew Peterson's announcement that he is engaged is not true, and is actually a publicity stunt meant to embarrass a woman who denied his advances, says the boyfriend of Romeoville waitress Christina Raines, who has denied that she and Peterson are romantically involved. Peterson contends that Raines' boyfriend is lying. Maybe they can work this issue out on Springer.
Take Me With You, Obama
While the bitterly cold weather turned my eyeballs to ice today as I walked outside, Obama and the fam are in Hawaii until the end of the year.
CoEd Cohabitation
Starting next month, male and female students at the University of Chicago will be permitted to live together in university dorm rooms.
RIP, Beauty Turner
Beauty Turner, journalist and public housing activist best known for her "ghetto bus tours," died yesterday after a brain aneurysm.
Vote Nobody For Alderman
Wanna be an alderman? The city of North Chicago has two seats on their city council that apparently nobody wants.
Braaaains!... In Aisle 5
Like zombies from a George Romero movie, the good people at Wal-Mart keep coming back. They're going to try one more time to open their second store in Chicago.
Impressionists Come Home
About six months ago, the Art Institute of Chicago lent around ninety Impressionist and Post-Impressionist masterpieces to Fort Worth's Kimbell Art Museum while the AIC galleries were being expanded. Today, the paintings are back, including Gustave Caillebotte's Paris Street, Rainy Day, which returns to its old place at the top of the stairs.
Just Sell Your Car
First they sold off the parking meters, now City Council is weighing a proposal for a "congestion reduction fee" on parking spaces downtown. Proceeds would theoretically go to the CTA for service improvements.
Thank You, Come Again
The one upside of our struggling economy? Nicer sales clerks, or so an article in Crain's claims. Your own experiences may vary.
The Emperor Has No Clothes
Remember the nude Palin painting at the Old Town Ale House? Well, Governor Blagojevich has joined it -- and he's nude too.
69 Rabbits and an Eviction
Yes, we live in a world in which we can have "a typical pet-hoarding situation."
Archdiocese Writes Another Check
The Chicago Archdiocese has agreed to pay $1.4 million to a man who claimed he was sexually abused by a priest twenty years ago.
If They Don't Have to Go, You Don't Have to Go
Take a look at the Emergency Closing Center and see if your school or business had the right mind to cancel opening because of the weather passing over the city right now.
The Mystery of Nut Breads
A Chicagoan recounts her ongoing journey for the perfect potica recipe in this week's Drive-Thru feature.
Chicago Works Its Magic
Add one more to the list of things to look forward to in the spring. The Museum of Science and Industry scored a coup of sorts last week, beating out institutions around the world for the chance to premier "Harry Potter: The Exhibition" next April. Tickets already available online.
Film Critics Welcome New Robot Overlord
The Chicago Film Critics Association have chosen WALL-E as Best Picture in their 2008 awards list. A complete list of winning films, including The Dark Knight and Slumdog Millionaire, is available at the CFCA Website.
So This is Christmas
Sound Opinions has a holiday mixtape for you from "DJ lofi" Andy Cirzan. Tune in Friday night to hear them discuss it.
Who You Gonna Call?
Just so you know, the Ghostbusters don't exist.
588-2300
Empire Today has collected videos of its classic carpet commercials at EmpireCarpet.tv. Sing along!
Blago The Bookie?
The latest twist in the Blagojevich saga and it's a strange one: a former mob lawyer says the governor was formerly a bookie with ties to the mob. (A tip of the hat for the tip to the Reader).
Green Cheat Sheet
Score yourself on the $800 Challenge, a quick guide to saving money by saving energy, part of the Chicago Climate Action Plan. Helpfully, it points out that you save $0 by planting a tree.
One Way to Make a Buck These Days
The domain name www.impeachpresidenthussein.com is apparently for sale on Craigslist. But hurry: The (bargain!) $50,000 price tag doubles on Inauguration Day.
"I'm doing everything I can to try to get her away from him."
The father of Drew Peterson's reported fiancee Christina Raines has spoken to the press about his future son-in-law.
NYE for Free
Not sure what you're doing New Year's Eve? We've got a contest in Transmission that might make up your mind: the Dandy Warhols at Metro!
Cold Construction
Watch the ice rink in Wrigley Field being built in real time. Not exactly riveting action, but interesting viewing nonetheless.
"Living the Dream"
There are Luvabulls, Incredibulls and even Swingin Seniors, but none of them have anything on the Matadors.
Delmark's Half Century (+ 5)
We take a minute to review recent releases from Chicago's Delmark Records over in Transmission. What better way to celebrate 55 years of blues and jazz recordings than with a couple of sweet CD/DVD combos!
Management Problems at Kellogg School
Northwestern's Kellogg School of Management didn't do itself any favors by accidentlally sending out acceptance emails to 50 applicants it rejected.
Schaumburg Crack and Cocaine Bust
That's right: the Streets of Woodfield mall is a major distribution points for crack and cocaine. Even better? One of the arrestees allegedly sold crack at his son's football games.
DoGoodDoGoodDoGood
If you're looking for a way to donate some time or cash, you may want to check out the Trib's new "channel," Do Good.
Obama Racking Up "Person of the Year" Kudos
Ebony named their inaugural Person of the Year: Barack Obama. One cool feature on their website is audio excerpts from their Obama interview, which took place the day after the election.
Sparks Will Fly
The second annual (but first time in Chicago) "Speaker Series: The Minds That Move The World" brings together some of the most opinionated and often controversial figures in news and politics to candidly discuss whatever is going on in the world at that moment in time. Expect Ann Coulter and Bill Maher to pull no punches when they go at it in March, followed by Al Gore, Arianna Huffington, Paul Begala and more. Presale starts today -- learn more in Mechanics.
Well, That's Settled ...Sort of
Blago won't appoint anyone to Obama's senate seat, according to his attorney. Now we just have to figure out who will.
Chicago Best 3G Coverage
Gizmodo does a citywide road test of AT&T, Sprint and Verizon. Compare to the rest of the country.
Two Wheels, Times Two
Double Bike Match launched today: donate to World Bicycle Relief through the site and an angel will match it, so that two bikes can be purchased for needy people.
Army Blues
It's not surprising given the current economic conditions, but still troubling: the Salvation Army is facing financial trouble due to a big drop in donations.
Blogging the Mitzvah
Spencer Tweedy -- yes, son of Jeff -- has launched All About Mitzvah, a guide to bar and bat mitzvahs for those about to reach "that time in one's life."
Touring Chicago by iPod
Audissey Guides has made its iPod tour of Chicago, narrated by local hip hop poet Kevin Coval, a free download.
Less Mortal Kombat, More Mortal Combat
Midway Games' Chicago office laid off 130 full-time employees just in time for the holidays.
Drew Peterson to Marry Another Woman Half His Age
Drew Peterson is engaged to a 23-year-old woman who will be his fifth wife. According to the S-T, "Peterson said he does not believe his marital status should prevent him from becoming engaged. 'I was married to Kathleen when I was engaged to Stacy,' he said." The heart wants what it wants, people.
Blast From The Past
The "unique" local political scene gets yet another national dissection. This time, it's The Atlantic. And this time it's from October, 1930. The more things change...
Book Club: The Order of Odd-Fish Review
I don't think I can possibly tell you how great The Order of Odd-Fish is, but I sure as heck try in my review over on the Book Club page. This debut young-adult novel by local author James Kennedy is honestly one of the best things I've read all year.
Blagojeviches Apologizing for Some Behavior
Patti Blagojevich sent a letter of apology to her neighbors saying they're sorry about media barrage that's invaded their neighborhood over the last two weeks.
"I am Not a Crook"
Time Out finds photographic evidence of Blagojevich meeting Nixon.
Watch it Come Down
WGN collects webcams on one page so you can watch the city get blanketed in snow.
The Zartini Party
Just because your boss canceled the office holiday party doesn't mean you can't attend one virtually, choose-your-own-adventure style.
Highway Contractor 1
Someone talked concrete with Blago ...and now they're talking to the Feds.
Northwestern Gets a New Prez
Morton O. Schapiro has been named as Northwestern's new president, effective September 2009. Schapiro is currently the president of Williams College and an expert on "the economics of higher education," which is fitting, as he was the ninth highest-paid college president in the US last year, raking in a $515,000 paycheck.
Obama to Take the Lincoln Route
P-E Obama has announced that he and the family will be taking the same train route as Abraham Lincoln took back in 1861 from Philadelphia to Washington, DC for his January 20 inauguration, stopping in Delaware to pick VP-E Joe Biden and his family. The Swamp wonders if Obama's love for Lincoln has gone too far.
Forgotten but Not Yet Gone
Forgotten Chicago profiles Michael Reese Hospital, most recently in the news as the just-purchased future location of the Olympic Village.
In The Key of R
R. Kelly's new Obama-inspired track, "I Believe", is available as a free download from iTunes today. Says the Pied Piper of Love: "Hopefully it touches anyone trying to accomplish something special in their life. Anything is possible if you believe." [via]
The CTA Redesigns (its Website)
The CTA debuted a completely redesigned transitchicago.com today (you may need to hard-refresh the page if you've been there lately.) The site is a big step forward in the agency's effort to standardize messaging and streamline information. Service alerts are made clear and are available by RSS.
Too Hot in the Hot Tub
Well before bleeps and Blagos the national lens was focused on the story within a story of local NBC reporter Amy Jacobson's supposed impropriety. Now Chicago Mag has a feature article which details the scandal and Jacobson's pending lawsuit. Meanwhile, Lisa Stebic's disappearance remains a mystery.
Closing the Window
A sad but expected coda to the Republic Windows & Doors story: the company filed for bankruptcy today.
A Slam Dunc
Arne Duncan, superintendent of Chicago schoools, is President-elect Barack Obama's pick for Secretary of Education. Look for an announcement Tuesday morning.
A Life of Reform
Northwestern's law school recently created a new site dedicated to Florence Kelley, one of Chicago's most important social reformers at the turn of the century.
Madigan Moves To Impeach
As expected, the Illinois House led by Speaker Michael Madigan has begun the move to impeach Gov. Blagojevich. Madigan says he's been reviewing grounds for impeaching Blago for "about a year."
Oscar Watch: Chicago Weighs In
The Chicago Film Critics Association announced the nominees for its 2008 film awards today.
What's The Rush?
They were one of the better teams in the Arena Football League (most recently winning the 2008 Central Division), but now the Chicago Rush will be sitting on the sidelines with the rest of the AFL after the league shut down operations for the 2009 season. This leaves Chicago with only one indoor football team, the Chicago Slaughter, coached by one Steve "Mongo" McMichael, which should thrill '85 Bears fans.
Ain't Nobody Here But Us...
The latest hip urban trend? Raising chickens in your backyard. Says one owner: "They're like pets with eggs." Yeah, but most pets don't have their young eaten by the owner so, you know, not quite the same. (Here's a classic from our archives.)
Chilled Braaaaiiins
Hey, did you miss Chicago Zombie's Zombies on Ice yesterday? There's plenty of photos on Flickr of the event at the Millennium Park skating rink, and a nice Sun-Times article on the event. The Sun-Times also mentions that SantaCon Chicago was at the rink on Saturday, but of course the drunken Santas were less behaved than those mild-mannered nice young zombies.
Reason No. 1: Because NYC Must Be Having Some Chicago Jealousy Issues
The "Reasons to Love New York 2008" issue of New York magazine is on-line. Their no. 1 reason to love the Big Apple? "Because Obama Is One of Us, Despite All That Business About Chicago." Dang, New York, step off already.
Don't Shoot the Messenger
Future Chief of Staff Rahm Emanuel complained to an ABC cameraman who he let into his home to use the bathroom that he has received death threats in the wake of the revelation that he was in touch with Governor Blagojevich's people about President-Elect Obama's senate replacement. Emanuel's staff later denied the conversation happened.
Douglas Park: Now Perfect for BMX Biking
It may be like rearranging deck chairs on the Titanic, but Chicago 2016 has already made some changes to the proposed schedule of events for the summer Olympics bid.
The Coolest Temporary Ice Rink
On January 4, Wrigleyville denizens will have the opportunity to skate on the ice rink that will be constructed in Wrigley Field for the Winter Classic hockey game. The Cubs announced the event via e-mail to neighbors and neighborhood groups. A $10 ticket will get you one hour of ice time, but you have to bring your own skates. Update: Here's the link to the ticket information. Tickets go on sale at 10AM, Monday the 15th.
Crazy Flipper Fingers
Yes, in the age of Wii and Golden Tee, people still play pinball. In fact there's a "tournament of champions" going on in Schaumburg this weekend. You can still enter so you may want to start loosening up those fingers.
End of Year Rocking
Thinking about what to do for New Year's Eve? We've hand picked a few standout concerts in Transmission.
Taking Out the Garbage
Illinois Attorney General Lisa Madigan has begun the process to declare Governor Blagojevich unfit to serve.
'Goth' Without The Eyeliner
The blog Public Art In Chicago gives a peek at the latest addition to the city's outdoor art lineup. We think it'll look familiar to you, although not quite like this.
Bears Win By A Foot
Yes, the Bears won last night with a 27-24 victory over the New Orleans Saints. But they did so with another of their now-patented see-saw battles, bursting out of the gate and then struggling to win. Thank God for Robbie Gould, but can we have one sure-thing, blowout victory please?
Christmastime for Film Buffs
This weekend Facets Multimedia is having another one of its periodic video sales, where it sells off rare and out-of-print titles on VHS and DVD. A perfect opportunity to do your holiday shopping for all the cinephiles on your list! Details in Slowdown.
Read Tribune Company Papers in New York
The NY Times is playing around with a new format on its website wherein one can read articles by the Times, as well as numerous other online and print sources, including some from the Tribune company.
A Stark Look at the Health-Care Have Nots
Although some nonprofit hospitals are raking in the dough, Lawndale's Mount Sinai Hospital struggles in its attempts to provide quality health care to this inner-city neighborhood.
It's All About the O
Designer Sol Sender talks about the development of the Obama logo. (Previously: 1, 2)
Even if You Lost, You Really Won
A kolacky recipe won this year's Trib holiday cookie contest, but a badass recipe for rogaliki gave it a wedgie and shoved it in a locker afterwards in this week's Drive-Thru feature.
Visionaries Wanted
Know an incredible Chicagoan who's helping to put the city on the global map? Nominate her or him to be one of Chicago Public Radio's top 10 global visionaries in Chicago. Nominations are due Jan. 14, and the program "Chicago Matters: Growing Forward" will unveil the winners throughout 2009.
Jellified Holidays
In between all the other holiday parties this weekend, here's a freebie for you: Jelly Chicago and other local tech folks (including Gapes Block) are hosting a free holiday party at Noble Tree Coffee & Tea, 2444 N. Clark St., Saturday night at 10pm. It's free; just RSVP.
2008 Nonfiction in Review
At the Gapers Block Book Club, we wholeheartedly agree that books make great gifts. You can find lots of fine gift choices on this week's round-up of notable nonfiction books about Chicago published in the past year. And, if you missed last week's fiction round-up, read it here.
Cubs Forsake Jake
All that back and forth stuff about the Cubs obtaining pitching ace Jake Peavy? Forget about it. The Cubs have said thanks but no thanks.
Turn on Your Bike Light
The Active Transportation Alliance will be giving out 200 free bike headlights tonight at Chicago and Wells from 5:30-7:30pm.
Kenwood = Kennebunkport
The Obama family plans on coming home to Chicago "every six weeks or couple months" while in the White House. Which makes this recently sold home just outside the barricades around Mr. President-elect's home a pretty sweet move -- or a hassle, depending on your perspective.
Office Supply Shortage Forthcoming?
As part of Office Depot's plan to close 112 stores across the country, the Chicago area will lose 15.
Be a Secret Santa
Speaking of people helping people, Resurrection Healthcare's Homebound Elderly Program is in need of volunteers to help bring holiday cheer to homebound senior citizens in Chicago. Help out if you can.
She's A @%&$!# Nice Girl
Don't let her (alleged) potty mouth fool you. Patti Blagojevich's family insists she's a sweet kid.
People Helping People
Two Chicagoans were amongst the 23 recipients of the Presidential Citizens Medal, second only to the Medal of Freedom in civilian recognition. One person honored you may know: Gary Sinise, for his work helping both Iraqi children and children of military members serving there. The second is Rev. John Foley, founder of a high school network that focuses on the "nation's most vulnerable youth."
A Dramatic Reading
Salon presents Glengarry Rod Blagojevich, the Blagojevich scandal imagined as a Mamet play.
Republic Windows Sit-in Over
Following an agreement from all parties, the Republic Windows & Doors workers have ended their sit-in.
Who's the Zaniest Person in Chicago?
It appears to be Dobie Maxwell, who won Zanies' "Zaniest Person in Chicago" contest. Full list of winners at the Reader's blog.
Random Blagojevitching
A round-up of Blago news: Obama wants the governor to resign, Jesse Jackson, Jr. is supposedly "Candidate 5," and conservatives are already working to spin this into an Obama scandal. Also, here's a recounting of an interview for Blagojevich speechwriter; Blagojevich! The Musical; and "Blagojevitter," real-time Twitter commentary on the scandal.
It's Just Pat
OK, enough about the governor. What about the man who brought him down? The New York Times has the lowdown on Chicago's new "Eliot Ness," U.S. attorney Pat Fitzgerald.
House Theatre Doomsday?
The House Theatre has pulled out all the stops in its latest appeal letter, alerting fans that it may be about to cancel its next show. (The same letter also warns that Chicago may become *** dun dun dun*** St. Louis with a lake, if The House ceases to exist.)
FAIL
As our image in the global media falls from philosopher-king maker to the most corrupt state in the US, we're forced to confront our utter lack of surprise. John Kass sums it up best when he says "...the joke's on us."
While You Were Weeping
As the city's media held a massive freakout over Blago's arrest, Al Gore was in town yesterday to talk to Pres-elect Obama on climate change.
Connecting the Dots
The NY Times has by far the coolest and most helpful graphic I've seen pertaining to the Blagojevich scandal.
Obama's Election Night Party: $1.74 Million
Now the city just has to get the DNC to pay for it.
Did Blago Need Sneed?
She's known for her "scoops," but Sun-Times columnist Michael Sneed may be part of one now, this one involving Gov. Blagojevich. Gawker alleges that Sneed was the gov's "go-to reporter" for planting fake stories designed to extort money in exchange for passing off Obama's vacant Senate seat.
Republic Windows Workers Win -- Maybe
The AP and Bloomberg are reporting that Bank of America has agreed to offer Republic Windows & Doors additional credit to pay its workers, now in their fifth day of sit-in. Of course, it won't matter if Republic doesn't take the offer.
'Dear Santa' Letters Need Santas
Head down to the main post office and answer a child's "Dear Santa" letter. Sure things are bleak: The record unemployment. Our dear ole gov'na in shackles. But... 'tis better to give than to receive, right? Letters are available in the post office lobby; sift through and find one that tugs your heartstrings. More info.
What a Difference Five Years Makes
From Sunshine Governor to Mr. Unpopularity. (Note the irony of that first headline -- and this whole day, really -- in light of Blago's comments yesterday.)
Durbin: Let's Vote
Senator Dick Durbin is suggesting Illinois hold a special election so that citizens can vote on who replaces President-elect Obama.
We Are Daley
Over at the Daily Daley, here's a round-up of how the world sees Chicago through mayor-centric glasses.
A Different Blago Corruption Angle
SHARK, SHowing Animals Respect and Kindness, has been trying for years to expose Gov. Blagojevich's connection with alleged corruption in the Illinois rodeo industry.
Your Daily Commute
Commuting.in prettifies the CTA Bus Tracker for your mobile device, but also allows you to save favorite bus routes and stops.
Blago in Cuffs
WGN is reporting that federal authorities have taken Gov. Blagojevich and his Chief of Staff John Harris into custody. UPDATE: the US Attorney's office will hold a press conference at 11am today(live streaming footage here) to discuss the federal corruption charges leveraged against the Governor, which apparently stemmed from the search for a senate replacement for President-Elect Obama. The Trib , NYT and the S-T also have coverage. The Smoking Gun has the criminal complaint document on their site.
How Are Your Investigatory Skills?
Test them out with the CPD's cold case webpage or the Illinois State Police's Unsolved Crimes Database. [Via]
Lincoln Square Liquor Shoppers:
Apparently your cell phones are not only vexing, but also extremely insolent.
Republic Windows Story Less than Transparent
Interesting development in the Republic Windows & Doors story: its owners may have already started a new company. (More updates in Mechanics.)
Helping Humboldt Park
There are many reasons to give. (And even more citywide.)
Too Many Fat Tires?
General Carlessness knows: Drinking and bike-shopping don't mix.
Trib Files for Bankruptcy Protection
As was rumored to be coming, the Tribune Company filed for bankruptcy protection today. Editor & Publisher gives some background and analysis as to what's happened.
Gingerbread Masterpiece
April Reed Cake Design is selling a gingerbread version of Mies van der Rohe's Farnsworth House. The original, located in Plano, Illinois, was sold to local preservationists in December 2003 for $7.5 million. This edible treat sells for $4,320 - 15% of proceeds pays for repairs to the real house. [via]
ROBOTS!
If you're already thinking about the weekend, here's something a little different: IIT will be hosting a Midwest robotics tournament.
Playboy CEO To Hop Along
Christie Hefner, chairman and CEO of Playboy Enterprises, Inc., will be stepping down in 2009. Update: Hefner spoke to the Tribune about her decision to leave Playboy. Read the interview here.
Rising From the 'Grave'
Though the presidential election has long since been decided, two of the most controversial figures from that historic campaign are still hanging around like zombies and popping up in the news: Chicagoans' Bill Ayers and Rev. Jeremiah Wright.
Surf Second City
Surfboards are banned from Chicago's beaches -- but maybe not for long.
Peter Francis Geraci Would Be Cheaper
The WSJ reports that the Tribune Company has hired financial consultants Lazard to guide them through the process of filing for bankruptcy protection. The Trib itself says that they're exploring their options and that decisions have yet to be made.
Morgan Street to See Green
The Chicago Journal reports that in 2009 the CTA will begin construction to add a new stop to the Green Line at Morgan Street. This will help close the massive gap that goes Clinton to Ashland with no stop in between. Construction is expected to be completed in late 2010 or early 2011.
Chicago Workers Take Over Factory After It Closes
Republic Windows and Doors had their credit line closed by Bank of America, so they closed their doors on Friday and laid off their employees with no notice, severance or benefits. The workers joined forces and took over the factory. They plan to stay there until they get paid. UPDATE: Photos from the factory on Sunday. UPDATE II: Read more about this in Mechanics.
More Radio Layoffs
Steve Dahl's not the only one off the radio today: Chicago Public Radio laid off several staffers from WBEZ and Vocalo, WSCR let Fred Huebner go, and WBBM eliminated half of Debra Dale's job.
Photo Friday Continues: Photo Swap on February 6
Mark your calendars: Gapers Block and Calumet Photographic are teaming up for our third Photo Swap on February 6 -- details in Slowdown. Additionally, an accompanying photo show will run between February 3 and 11 -- details TBA.
Dahl Signs Off
Chicago radio legend (yeah, it's pretty safe to call him that) Steve Dahl signed off on his WJMK morning show. Dahl has been a fixture on the fickle Chicago radio scene for more than 30 years.
Departure
... and even more photogaphy (Photo Friday at GB!). The work of photographer and multimedia artist, Daniel Everett and in particular, his stunning Departure series.
Views from Above
Speaking of photography, here's a great set of photos by one of the crane operators working on the Trump Tower. (Thanks, Mark!)
Cameras at the Ready
The Reader is looking for submissions for its annual "1000 Words" photography issue. (Here's last year's.)
She's Got The Power
Oprah Winfrey is number 1 on The Hollywood Reporter's Power 100 list for 2008. No doubt her recent appearance on "30 Rock" helped her nab the spot. This ranking is an improvement over her 2007 standing, when she came in at sixth place.
Closer to Official A
A close friend of Governor Blagojevich secretly recorded conversations for the Feds, the Tribune reports. Capitol Fax has rounded up some perspectives from around the state.
Indian Done Right
Chris Brunn takes on the task of making sambar in this week's Drive-Thru feature.
Meet Me in Humboldt Park
Now called Nothing Like the Holidays, the movie centered around one Humboldt Park family's holiday hi-jinx had a premiere at the Music Box. Hollywood Chicago has a few pictures of the stars in attendance.
Showcasing CPS' Musical Progeny
CPS alum Brad Harbaugh has assembled a list of 52 songs performed by the district's former students.
A Gentleman's City
GQ has named Chicago its city of the year, thanks to its politics (though not directly Obama), film (The Dark Knight), literature (yay writers!) and architecture (the on-hold Spire).
Land of Sweets Ticket Giveaway
Enjoy burlesque? Feeling the holiday spirit? You're in luck: we've got a tantalizing ticket giveaway for next week's performances of Land of the Sweets: the Burlesque Nutcracker! We've got a pair of tickets to each performance! To enter, email contests@gapersblock.com with your name and performance preference. UPDATE: We've got our winners!
The Obama Food Tour
Where does Obama eat in Chicago? Anywhere he wants. Actually, Sky Full of Bacon has a more precise list.
The Ugly Truth
A while back we asked if Chicago had the ugliest house in America. Well, the verdict is in and the answer is ... yup, sure do.
Fashionably Michelle
Womens Wear Daily assembled submissions from designers such as Carolina Herrera, Michael Kors, Monique Lhuillier and Christian La Croix for Michelle Obama's inauguration gown. A few designers even threw in ideas for Malia and Sasha.
Feeding the Meter Controversy
Just when you thought that parking meter privatization deal couldn't get any worse, someone read the fine print: all parking holidays will be off, and no free parking on Sundays, either. City Council votes today; call your alderman. UPDATE: The deal passed City Council 40-5.
More Great Medical News from Local Conferences
Are you missing any needles, staples, paper clips or pieces of glass, wood, plastic, graphite, crayon or stone? Get the nearest teenager an ultrasound or an X-ray.
CTA Rolls Out Hybrid Buses
The CTA unveiled new hybrid buses today that plug into an electrical outlet at night and run on battery power for most of the day. The move is estimated to save the CTA almost $7 million annually in maintenance, labor and fuel costs by retiring aging buses.
Ready for Repeal Day?
This Friday marks the 75th anniversary of the repeal of Prohibition. 312 Dining Diva has a list of all the parties going on to celebrate.
Ms. Winfrey Goes to Washington
Oprah Winfrey will be taking her eponymous talk show to Washington, D.C., broadasting from the Opera House at the Kennedy Center during the week of the inauguration. The show reservation line is closed for the month of January, making this as difficult a get as tickets for the inauguration itself.
Roadside Art on Pulaski
Scenes and signs along Pulaski Road. [via]
Feel Like Somebody's Watching You?
Chances are, someone is. And after looking at this blog, you may never feel at ease riding the CTA again.
Fix Wilson Yard Sues City
Working together as "Fix Wilson Yard," more than 2,000 residents of the Uptown neighborhood filed suit (PDF) against the City of Chicago today, challenging numerous abuses in the creation, planning, implementation and funding of the Wilson Yard Tax Increment Financing (TIF) District and the corresponding Wilson Yard Redevelopment Plan. Sure, we're happy Target is on board, but where's our movie theater?
City Sticker Winner Announced
Beware the giant dog attacking the city next spring! That's my impression of the image that won the most votes in the Chicago City Clerk's vehicle sticker contest. Congrats to Denise Ferguson, the artist, who's a senior at Corliss High School.
The Future Sound of...
What is the future of the music? Record stores and labels are folding, bands are connecting directly with fans... what will the industry look like in the coming years? Join Greg Kot and Jim DeRogatis, music critics and hosts of "Sound Opinions," tonight at Columbia College's Conaway Center for a discussion of that topic and more, from 6pm to 7:30pm. It's free, but space is limited so get there early.
Book Club: 2008 Chicago Fiction in Review
This year has brought us a wonderfully wide variety of new fiction publications. Head on over to the Book Club page to read about a few of them in our 2008 Chicago Fiction in Review.
Safe2Pee
If you find yourself wanting to mark "other" under the Gender category on forms, then you'll find Safe2Pee.org a welcome addition to your bookmarks. There are supposedly only 19 gender-neutral bathrooms in Chicago (which I know is very low) but thankfully anyone can add in another entry. Making the world a GenderQueer friendly place, one bathroom at a time.
Thinking Way Ahead
Barack Obama isn't officially president yet, but Lee Bey is already making recommendations for his presidential library.
Spirit of Competition
Chicago-based crowdSPRING is the front-runner in Wired's small business competiton. Watch their video and vote for the local team.
Open Books Holiday Auction
Literacy non-profit organization Open Books is holding a holiday auction offering dozens of unique items for you to bid on. The proceeds from the auction benefit Open Books' many efforts to improve literacy in Chicago, so when you purchase something here, your gift goes much further than you can see. Bidding runs through December 12.
Car Wars
It will cost you considerably more to park at a meter in the near future. But don't worry: You probably won't be able to move your car from in front of your house anyway.
There's a Club for Everything
Even flutists, scanners and jitterbuggers. Even tax enthusiasts.
Celebrate 25 Years of Ralphie
This year marks the 25th anniversary of the classic holiday movie A Christmas Story, based on author/screenwriter Jean Shepherd's childhood living in Hammond. To celebrate, the Lake County (IN) Convention & Visitor's Bureau is hosting "A Christmas Story Comes Home" now through January 11. The exhibit features animated displays from the movie, and special events throughout December include an ugliest lamp contest, "Mommy's little piggy" eating contest, the "Oh Fuuudge!" relay race, and an opportunity to meet Flick.
Germ Of An Idea
Stumped on what to get that hypochondriac on your Christmas list? How about a giant, plush microbe, created by University of Chicago law school grad Drew Oliver. Choose from The Common Cold, E. coli or Black Death. Hours of fun...
So What's The Point?
Hyde Park Progress take a new look at the future of Promontory Point (aka "The Point") in light of one of the area's most famous (former) residents moving to D.C.
"I'm tired of clenching my damn abs, mom!"
Ah, the joys of Overheard in Chicago.
The Ad You Might Not Want To Leave
The good news: some downtown bus shelters are going to have warm air piped into them over the winter. The bad news: it's not part of a CTA improvement program, it's an ad for stuffing. More details in Drive-Thru.
The Chinook Salmon of East Chicago
That's right, there are salmon in East Chicago. What's even better: they spawn in the wastewater plant.
No Transfers
The CTA appears to be cracking down on homeless ridership -- just in time for winter weather -- by posting signage at train terminals reminding passengers that they must pay for another fare to ride a train board a train going the opposite direction. The Chicago Coalition for the Homeless has begun tracking any ejections of homeless people by CTA employees.
That's The Ticket
Tired of dodging the city tow trucks thanks to that fistful of parking tickets you've collected? The Department of Revenue is giving you a break.
Theater of the Mind(less)
A Joliet native who stars on a "Doctor Who" spinoff show does something weird on the radio.
For the High Minded Fan
Sport Literate is a "literary journal focusing on 'honest reflections on life's leisurely diversions.'"
CTA Considers Selling Station Naming Rights
The CTA is once again mulling offering naming rights to individual CTA stations. The RedEye's Kyra Kyles has some suggestions; I always thought Dunkin' Donuts should sponsor Library -- where the Pink, Orange and Brown lines stop. GB readers had some other good ideas in Fuel back in 2005. (By the way, if you're interested in discussing the proposed Red Line extension below 95th, there are a couple meetings this week.)
A Tragedy 50 Years On
On this date in 1958, 92 students and three nuns died when fire ripped through Our Lady of the Angels School. In Detour, Drive-Thru editor Robyn Nisi recounts the tragedy and introduces a 2004 in-depth article about it, republished with permission.
80,000 Jobs are Just the Beginning
Crain's examines the linkages between Chicago and Detroit and the effect the current calamity with U.S. automakers could have on us.
A First Kiss ... on the Wedding Day
Following a vow not to date for seven years, two abstinence educators kissed each other for the first time the other day ... when they got married.
Holiday Mail Bag
Looking for holiday greeting cards? Local folks on Etsy have some great Chicago-themed designs available, no matter what your holiday.
Buy Your Soul Back
Reason To Give has the perfect solution for those hard-to-buy-for people on your list. The Chicago nonprofit's new webstore offers an innovative alternative to traditional holiday gift exchange and a sweet chance to help out the Humboldt Park community. It's like Extreme Makeover Home Edition meets Amazon.com!
Terkel and Dybek and You
WBEZ's Studs Terkel archive keeps growing, this time with an hour-long discussion with Terkel and Dybek from the 2006 StoryWeek Festival of Writers.
