BaconFest Cometh
That's right, an entire festival devoted to your favorite pork product, right here in Chicago. Follow @baconfestchi on Twitter or join the Facebook group.
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.
✶ Thank you for your readership and contributions. ✶
TODAY
Monday, November 24
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Monthly Archive
March 2009
9 Percent
That's Illinois's unemployment rate, the highest since 1992. Who wants to bet we make double digits soon?
Train/Crash
Progressive Railroading.com (and it's OK to admit it's your favorite website) reports that Amtrak is reintroducing sleeper cars to the Chicago-to-Boston route. So if you had plans to head to Beantown anytime soon, you can now do it flat on your back.
Reach Out and Bump Someone
The latest cool iPhone app comes from our very own University of Chicago where two business school students have come up with a clever way to exchange info between users.
The Love Train
Yeah, riding the CTA train sucks sometimes (thanks to Miss Bags-On-The-Seat and you, Mr. Block-The-Door, among others). But maybe you'll run into The Nicest Train Operator In Chicago and everything won't seem so bad, even the guy yakking on his cell phone from Grand to Berwyn, for crying out loud.
City of Big Laughs
The Trib's Maureen Ryan has the details on a "very funny" festival: Just For Laughs, a TBS-sponsored comedy event taking place in Chicago June 17-21.
AskMen, They'll Tell You
AskMen.com ranked Chicago number 1 in its Top 29 Best Cities survey, just ahead of Barcelona and San Francisco.
Get Started This Weekend
Got an idea for a new tech project? Bring it to Startup Weekend this weekend, and it might become a reality.
Fighting Up Stream
While big newspapers are closing or going bankrupt, at least one small paper is just getting started. Welcome The Urban Coaster, a new bi-weekly covering Rogers Park, West Ridge and Edgewater.
Sun-Times' Chapter 11
The Chicago Sun-Times has filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection. Here's a letter from the Sun-Times' Chairman and CEO Jeremy Halbreich.
Early Bird Gets the Pass
Don't forget, three-day "Early Bird" passes for Lollapalooza go on sale today at 10 AM. Keep an eye on Lollapalooza.com for details.
Republic Windows & Doors Broke the Law
The Chicago office of the National Labor Relations Board ruled on Friday that Republic Windows & Doors violated federal labor laws when it created another company in order to skirt bargaining with its union.
Olympic Opposition
With the IOC's upcoming visit approaching, resistance to the Olympic bid is making national news.
This Foreclosed-upon Life
If you missed it this weekend, it's worth listening to the most recent episode of This American Life, which offers "scenes from a recession" and includes a look at the limbo some Rogers Park condo owners are in, with half their building in foreclosure and the developer nowhere to be found.
FiveThirtyEight Leaves Chicago
Nate Silver, political Cassandra of our time, and founder of FiveThirtyEight, is moving from Chicago to New York. Well, we still have The Bean right?
All About Ron
In case you missed it, CPS CEO Ron Huberman was the Friday night guest on "Chicago Tonight". Video of his appearance is available on-line here.
Economy Shifts Ford Plant to Idle
A tough economy just got a little tougher for workers at the Chicago Ford plant at 12600 S. Torrance Ave. Slow sales have forced the company to shut the facility down for three weeks, laying off some 1,400 workers.
Laughing Off the Economy
Tame the Bear aims to be an entertaining look at our current economic woes, as well as a forum for cost-saving tips.
Flaming Lip Service?
He calls himself a "veteran Flaming Lips fan", but Sun-Times rock critic Jim DeRogatis says the band is just going through the motions when it comes to their recent output and their decision to forgo the fans-choice aspect of their upcoming show at the Pitchfork Festival.
How's Your Street Look?
WBEZ wants to know -- and wants you to photograph it in all its pockmarked glory for the Adopt a Side Street project.
Bridge Out Permanently
There are a lot of bridges over the Chicago River -- but there used to be a few more.
Closing County General Hospital
As ER says "goodbye" to Chicago on Thursday, all sorts of interesting background stories are emerging.
We're Not So Corrupt After All
Chicago may not be a city of angels, but we're only 19th when it comes to corruption. Of course, the corruption we do have has a big cost.
Feel Like a Brisk Run?
Thanks to one camera-toting runner, you can enjoy a taste of today's slushy Shamrock Shuffle from the comfort of your warm, dry home. [via]
RIP, Janet Jagan
Who was Janet Jagan, you ask? She was the first white, female president of Guyana, and she grew up in Hyde Park.
Times are Tough for Newspapers
Even fictional ones. The Flash is laying off Brenda Star.
Lights Out Saturday Night
Don't forget to turn off your lights from 8:30 to 9:30 tomorrow night as part of Earth Hour. Chicago's a flagship city for the global effort -- sort of a rolling blackout on a planetary scale.
View the Alien Up Close
Speaking of the U of C, the oval outline of its new Helmut Jahn designed Mansueto Library is finally recognizable, as you can see for yourself on its webcam.
Bizarre Bazaar
Strange things are afoot on uchi.marketplace, the U of C's version of Craigslist.
French Toast for Dinner: 'Nuff Said
Kaitlin Olson turns her day upside down in this week's Drive-Thru feature.
Chicken Buckets of Asphalt
Since the City is more interested (apparently) in repaving park district roads, maybe we can get KFC to fill some of Chicago's 25,000-plus potholes.
Chimp-less at Lincoln Park Zoo
Visitors to the Lincoln Park Zoo's Regenstein Center for Africa Apes may notice the lack of chimps over the next several days. That's because zoo staff is monitoring six chimps who've come down with a upper respiratory infection that also killed another chimp earlier this week.
Say "Goodbye" to Basketball
Yesterday IIT announced it is canceling its men's and women's basketball teams to free up resources for other activities.
Cheese Pizza, Jello & Chocolate Milk
What was your school lunch like? The Healthy Schools Campaign wants your "most vivid memory of school food" -- and you could win a panini maker for it.
Weeklong Bender
WhiskyFest is still a week away, but the party starts tonight. Jill Jaracz rounds up your whisky (and whiskey) options in Drive-Thru.
Spring Cleaning
Need to get rid of some stuff? You can call Purple Hearts or pile it in the alley, or you could try FreeCycle, PixieList or just list it on CraigsList, like this dude did.
Cast Adrift
A conflict of "creative differences" has resulted in 23 members of the city's American Theater Company, many of them founders of ATC, splitting the group and forming a new ensemble under the ATC's original name, American Blues Theater.
Get Stimulated
The new Stimulus Social Club has two goals: network socially conscious professionals in a laid back atmosphere, and help out a local charitable organization. Its first event is next Wednesday, April 1, at Rockit Bar & Grill. Your $10 admission gets you apps and your first drink, and benefits Step Up Women's Network. RSVP here.
You Wanna Bet?
Chicago mag's Jeff Ruby takes his chances for a whole week of gambling, betting on everything under -- and including -- the sun.
South Works Loses a Partner
A major financier of the redevelopment of the largest "open" land in the city, the former U.S. Steel South Works, has dropped out of the plan. To give you a sense of scale of the project, the other partners are continuing preparations to build "17,000 housing units, a million square feet of retail space and a 1,500-slip marina on the site."
Sven Wins A Rondo
Congratulations to Chicago's very own Svengoolie, who picked up a Rondo Hatton award for Favorite Horror Host. The Rondos will be given out in May at Wonderfest.
You're the Best ...Around
Nothin's gonna keep the Chicago Reader's Best of Chicago 2009 list down.
Free Chicago Books
Psst...would you like a case of free books for your school, organization, church or business? Visit the Book Club blog to find out how.
Free Beer & Kid-Lifting
The GB Get-Together this Friday just keeps getting better. Not only will the first 150 attendees enjoy complimentary Radeberger beer, but we'll be hosting the big finale for Things My Beard Can Lift -- for which Eamon Daly will be picking up a 50-pound kid using only his beard! Details in Slowdown.
Irish Parade Over?
The South Side Irish Parade planning committee announced this morning that it "is not planning to stage a parade in its present form in March of 2010." The decision reflects the strain having 300,000+ people attend the parade -- and the public drunkenness, multiple arrests and fights that come with it. Alternative events are in the works.
Gator Parade
Words of wisdom from The Woodlawn Wonder: "You can always tell the weather is changing by how many candy colored men's gator shoes you see on the street."
State Staycation
The Illinois Tourism Board is promoting its new "Find Your Getaway Match" promotion with a mock game show at 700 N. Michigan Ave. Thursday from 11:30am to 1pm, in which you could win one of seven two-day trips to Illinois cities, including Quincy, Galena and lovely Chicago.
April Book Club: Then We Came to the End
This month the Gapers Block Book Club is reading Then We Came to the End by Joshua Ferris, a debut novel that captures the highs and lows of the modern dysfunctional family--our co-workers. Although set during the dot-com bust of the turn of the century, the atmosphere of fear as characters try to avoid corporate layoffs at an unnamed Chicago ad agency has just as much relevance today. Read the complete introduction now at the Book Club blog.
Movies on the Radio
WGN's Nick Digilio Show is hosting a double feature at the Brew & View tonight. Watch Hot Fuzz at 8pm and Die Hard at 10pm, with Snuggie and Lou Malnati's giveaways in between. $5 to get in.
Man Jumps to Death from Marina City Tower
State Street is blocked from Wacker Drive to Illinois Street after a man in his 50's jumped to his death from the 28th floor of the Marina City tower.
File for April 15
Make a note of this: Martin Kamenski of Rockstar CPA will be at Alliance Bakery from 10am to 10pm on April 14 and at Small Bar on Division from noon to midnight on April 15, filing income tax extensions for anyone, for free. (Brave man.) First come, first served.
Another Day, Another Media Transformation
In yet another cost-cutting move, the Trib and L.A. Times are consolidating their foreign news services and will run them out of the L.A. office.
Ahead Of The Curve
Unfortunately it's not a good curve. Progress Illinois has a nice graph illustrating Illinois's unemployment rate, which has recently risen above the national average.
Car Wars: Attack of the Clones
It's bad enough when people commit identity theft, but when cars get in on it... Chicago was one of three locations targeted in a major "car cloning" ring bust. Car cloning is when one car assumes the identity of another. Unfortunately, it's not as cool and sci-fi as it sounds.
More Meter Rebellion
The Expired Meter uncovers additional parking meter abuse and destruction following the LAZ takeover -- including an effort to overstuff meters with pennies.
Nowhere To Go
Tomorrow at 10 a.m., the remaining residents of the Diplomat Hotel will be forced to vacate the premises, leaving many of them homeless. Earlier this month, residents were given a three-week deadline to find new accomodations, due to a long list of serious code violations by the building's owner.
City of Big Landmarks
Is the East Village a historical landmark? Neighborhood resident Carol Mrowka doesn't think so, and took her case to court when the city deemed it so. This kind of legal action has local preservationists worried about the "future of scores of such landmark districts and buildings in a city that adores its architectural legacy."
The Most Advanced Public Transit In Chicago
It's not a competition, but if it were, the L would be beating the Metra in which one is the more high tech train service.
Blago Radio
Wednesday from 7am to 9am, former governor Rod Blagojevich will host a two-hour talk show on WLS-AM, as a fill-in for the "Don Wade & Roma Morning Show," which is on break this week. The station says it's a one-time deal, but you never know.
Oak Park's Secret Gallery
"I can't imagine 'My garage is also an art gallery' would serve as a successful pick-up line." Meet The Suburban.
Introducing the Illinois Holocaust Museum
The Illinois Holocaust Museum and Education Center will be opening in Skokie on April 19. You may request tickets to the public grand opening ceremony or get a sneak peek by purchasing tickets for the Inaugural Gala on April 2.
Addams on Burnham
What would Jane Addams have said about the Burnham Plan? That's the question asked in a forthcoming book timed to the 100th anniversary of the great plan for our city.
WB(ee)EZ
WBEZ's blog has some pictures from the Chicago regional spelling bee held last Friday. Kira Gallancy won with the word "nominative". She will go on to compete in The Scripps National Spelling Bee in May.
A Life in Layers
Can't make it down to the Oriental Institute but want to learn more about mummies? The University of Chicago Magazine created an interactive mummy dissection that combines photographs, CT scans and interviews with researchers to examine the Institute's 2,800-year-old dummy -- without cracking the seal.
The Annoying Becomes Political
Several gay bars in Chicago are putting an end to allowing bachelorette parties, saying that comically flaunting one's impending nuptials in front of those who can't legally marry is insulting and inappropriate.
Foie Gras Back in the News
Chef Didier Durand has announced plans to open a foie gras museum in his restaurant, Cyrano's Bistrot. Meanwhile, Mark Caro's Foie Gras Wars is selling like, um, foie gras.
Smashing Pumpkins
The Smashing Pumpkins are down to just Billy Corgan and a bunch of hired hands after the departure of Jimmy Chamberlin Friday. [via]
Venting Parking Meter Frustration
Given recent complaints about parking meters, it should come as no surprise that some people are taking matters into their own hands... however unsuccessfully.
One Heck of a Way to Lose
The North Lawndale basketball coach isn't blaming the technical foul for their 65-66 loss, but the team probably wasn't psyched it got the foul for its uniforms.
They Are Good for It
The Democratic National Committee has finally reimbursed the city for the $1.74 million in costs they racked up during the election night Obama rally.
Magnificent Style
Chicago is prominently featured in the latest New York Times Style Magazine with a nod to a number of local designers and boutiques.
IIT's Grid Is Smart
IIT's Galvin Electricity Initiative got a shout out from the Economist as one of the more promising "Smart Energy Grid" projects in the States.
BSC
Decider Chicago wonders if our own Mayor Daley is the inspiration for Battlestar Galactica's Admiral Adama.
Adopt-a-Side Street
Chicago Public Radio's blog wants to help you get your street fixed. Just follow their guidelines to send in a picture of your street's issues. They'll then track how fast it gets fixed (or not).
Chuff Piece
Earlier this week, Time.com published a profile of Arianna Huffington wherein she explains Huffington Post Chicago's borrowing? aggregating? of content from local Chicago blogs thusly: "This was a problem with an intern." OK... Check out these posts at The Reader for some context. [via]
The Joys of Parking Meter Privatization
Oh, here's a surprise... Apparently, people aren't particularly pleased with the recent parking meter changes or the transition process.
Chicago in High-Res
The Windy Pixel: beautiful photography of our beautiful city.
Eating Cincinnati
Chris Brunn goes on a vegan vacation in this week's Drive-Thru feature.
Bloodshot's 15th
WBEZ's Eight Forty-Eight program featured Bloodshot Records owners Nan and Rob this morning as they prepare to celebrate the label's quinceanera in Austin at SXSW.
Beyond the Burnham Plan
In commemoration of the 100th anniversary of the Burnham Plan, Chicago Public Radio launched a new section, Chicago Matters: Beyond Burnham. Among other features, don't miss the regional population growth timeline and fact list.
Heartland Cafe Reopens
After being briefly closed by the Chicago Department Of Public Health, the Heartland Cafe reopened last night. Heartland owner Katy Hogan felt the inspection was fair, and gave the building an opportunity for an overdue renovation.
Time Out Chicago Lowers Price
While the Sun-Times is getting more expensive, Time Out Chicago is getting cheaper. The price will drop about a dollar ($1.99 instead of $2.99), effective immediately. TOC's editor-in-chief says it's meant to attract readers.
Sun-Times Raises Price
The Sun-Times will cost 75 cents per single copy retail starting March 30th.
Don't Let the Bedbugs Bite
Hopefully an apartment this bad isn't even on your radar, but to make sure you don't end up spending time in a place with bedbugs, check out this map of known infestations, and lend a hand locally. (Thanks, Kaylee!)
A Lost Weekend With The Hood Internet
We'll be live blogging, er, tweeting in Transmission with The Hood Internet starting tonight and throughout the weekend while they perform all around SXSW.
Fight For Uninsured in Illinois
Next week (March 22 to 28) marks the Robert Woods Johnson Cover the Uninsured Week campaign, and local blog Ill In Illinois suggests concerned Chicagoans can participate by heading to Springfield for a Legislative Advocacy Day on March 24 in support of The Health Care for All Illinois Act, HB 311. You gotta fight! For your right! To insurance!
Chicagoland Gets Bigger
Chicagoland's Kendall County was the fourth fastest growing county in the U.S. according to the U.S. Census Bureau.
Paving Priorities
Thousands of potholes on our city's streets, and the parks are getting repaved first. Thank the Olympic bid for your smooth ride to see the duckies.
A Four Pack from Thrill Jockey
In Transmission this week we take a long listen to four upcoming new releases from the venerable Chicago label Thrill Jockey. Read what we think about the latest from Lithops, Mountains, Extra Golden and Arbouretum.
Cubs Still the Trib's for Now
It looks like the Tribune Company won't be selling the Cubs until after opening day. MLB insiders say the sale probably won't actually happen until mid-May at the earliest.
Our President is Cooler Than Your President
"The President released his 2009 NCAA College Basketball Tournament bracket today." He posted it on his blog. And if that's not cool enough for you, he will be a guest on "The Tonight Show" tomorrow.
You're Doing it Wrong
Nearly 200 police officers in the Fraternal Order of Police gave CPD Superintendent Jody Weis a vote of no-confidence last night. The symbolic vote may be the first time such a showing has been made in more than a decade.
Beer, Here
New Chicago breweries Metropolitan and Half Acre got some good press today, both in the Tribune and in the Wall Street Journal.
What Willis Is Talking About
Willis Group CEO Jim Plameri takes to the web to talk about the renaming of the Sears Tower. [via]
A Tradition Worth Reviving
The Trib has a historical photo essay of the Back of the Yards Free Fair, a month long celebration once held at the intersection of 47th and South Damen.
Trained Cat Strut
The Tribune profiles the Rock Cats, "Chicago's only trained domestic cat show."
Ivan the Terribly Ill
Ivan, one of two cocker spaniel puppies adopted at PAWS Chicago by Oprah Winfrey, has died from parvovirus.
More Media Contractions: Crain's
Tuesday, Crain's Chicago Business laid off three employees and instituted a 10% pay-cut for all staff.
Master Strippers
The Admiral Theater's hosting a little bit of economic stimulus for some lucky ladies with their "So You Think You Can Strip" contest. If you've got what it takes, you can compete in the four-week competition for $15,000 in cash and prizes. The winner will get a trip to Las Vegas to compete in the national finals. [Via]
Newly Green + Wired
If you've been holding off on checking out the MSI's Smart Home, now's the time to go. It's recently been remodeled and is open for business.
Lacking "Caviar," Some May Turn to Poison
One Chicago resident who likely didn't weather our harsh winter well — the urban rat.
How Green Is a Green Chicago River?
The Christian Science Monitor looks at the annual dyeing of the Chicago River from an environmental aspect, with an interesting note that at any time of year, the Illinois Department of Public Health doesn't recommend eating too many fish from its waters.
Small On Size, Big On Soccer
Tailgate's Steve Gillies continues his excellent series on the city's best soccer-watching bars to get your footy on. Today: The Small Bar.
Block 37 Gets 86'd Again
Like David Barton Gym before them, British Columbia-based clothing retailer Lululemon says "meh" to joining in the Block 37 project.
Culinary Financial Markets
The WSJ blog asks how Chicago's private equity market is like Chicago-style pizza, by which it means it has a "style all its own" as a result of its First Chicago Bank origins.
"He's not a distinguished politician. He's not a powerful political thinker."
The New Yorker profiles Roland Burris.
The $90,000 Secret Password
For a change of pace, someone's taking advantage of currency exchanges.
SuperMaxx
I wouldn't say I have a soft spot for criminals, and I firmly think that there should be just punishment when a crime takes place. However, I find it hard to believe that many people deserve to be kept in solitary confinement for 23 hours a day for 11 years. And that is what has happened at Tamm's supermax prison. And I'm not the only one who thinks this way. And in case you prefer pictures, the Chicago Tribune had a great photo essay last month. [Via]
Geek Chic
The Chicago Nerd Social Club aims to prove that nerd is the new cool in 2009.
No Sigh of Relief Yet
It looks like plans for the Jerry Springer Show's departure aren't going as smoothly as hoped. The move is being challenged by Stamford residents.
Commuter Wars?
The CTA might have some new local competition. A Sun-Times story says it's actually cheaper, in some cases, to take Metra to the Loop rather than the L or bus.
Early Voting Begins Today
It's not as exciting as electing the first black president, but early voting begins today for Rahm Emanuel's seat in the 5th congressional district, as well as several suburban races. A full list of candidates for the April 7 election is here, and a list of early voting sites is also available. (via)
The Water's Green with Money
If you saw the Chicago River get dyed green this Saturday, your fun cost somewhere around $133 per minute.
Inside the Damaged Holy Name Cathedral
The Trib gives us a glimpse into the fire-damaged Holy Name Cathedral.
U of C Hospitals Changing Course
In response to recent criticism, the University of Chicago Hospitals are revising plans to divert patients who do not need emergency care.
Heartland Café Closed by Health Department
The Heartland Café was closed by the city Health Department on Thursday after inspectors found a variety of problems. Meanwhile, the restaurant's website says it's "closed for renovations," with a "reopening celebration" in the works.
"Let Friendship Shine"
That's the new motto of the Chicago 2016 Olympic bid. It replaces "stir the soul" which sounds more like a Campbell's Soup tagline. It's definitely an upgrade.
50% State Income Tax Increase?
Governor Quinn is considering responding to the state budget crisis by raising individual income taxes from 3 to 4.5 percent, while increasing personal exemptions.
Everything But Net
Be sure to check out today's Layer Tennis match, which features local artists Phineas X. Jones versus Dan "Jetsah" Grzeca battling it out on actual paper, not pixels. The action starts around 2pm.
Save Room for Pie
Made from scratch pies by Paula Haney (Trio, 312 Chicago, One Sixtyblue) have been at the Green City Market for two years, but as of tomorrow the mama in Hoosier Mama Pie Company has her own three-table bakeshop. Located at 1618½ W. Chicago Avenue, it features an open kitchen, '40s decor, and a rotating menu from dozens of seasonal selections available by the six- or nine-inch pie, slice, or flight.
Emphasizing Technology Rather than the Beat
Given the CPD's increasing use of high technology to attack growing crime rates, Chicago Mag wants to know: "Can Cameras Replace Cops?"
Do Not Pass Go
Have you spied any more Monopoly-themed graffiti around Chicago? [via]
Eating on the Cheap
We revisit Depression-era recipes to liven up our current Depression in this week's Drive-Thru feature.
Shape the Polish Triangle's Future
If you live in Wicker Park or West Town, you may have visited the Polish Triangle once or twice without realizing that was what it's called. You could help decide its future March 21 & 22, if you so choose.
Remembering Old Chicago Mall
I never visited Old Chicago Mall, but a massive mall with "rides, a concert venue and circus performers--all under a glowing 16-story dome" sounds like a little kid's dream. If you have memories of the mall or want to read other people's recollections, Paul Drabek's roller coaster website collects them.
Making the River Walkable
The Chicago River pedestrian route from Michigan to State is now three months from completion and looking good. The next extension will go from State to Lake.
Putting the Fantasy Back in Football
After years of competing with aging rockers and puppies during the Super Bowl halftime show, the Lingerie Football League will finally kick off their inaugural season this fall. Tickets to see the Chicago Bliss in one of their two home games go on sale this Monday.
It's His Wee Beady Eyes
Can a slightly soggy statue of Colonel Sanders help break the Cubs' curse? The Hanshin Tigers seem to think so.
From CHAOS to paper cranes
If you have always wanted to learn how to turn squares of pretty paper into cranes, cars, shoes or laptops, the Chicago Area Origami Society (fantastic acronym!) can direct your creases in a more organized fashion than their name suggests. Whether you've never folded, or can fold with your eyes closed, their next meeting is this Saturday. And since the expected high temp is 49° F, a visit to the desert or rainforest rooms would be soothing. [via]
Tweet That
Chicago comes in third (behind London and Los Angeles) when it comes to the number of people who use Twitter. [via]
The Travails of Pilsen
Sandra Cisneros may be the author of the latest One Book, One Chicago selection, but that doesn't mean she likes Chicago.
Sears Tower: What's in a Name?
They talked about painting it silver, but this story isn't a flash in the pan. The Sears Tower's getting a new tenant at the end of the summer, and a new name. London-based Willis Group is moving nearly 500 employees to the iconic tower in the Loop, and as a reward, Crain's is reporting the building will soon be called The Willis Tower. [hat tip to Sarah]
Seeing Stars
I.C.Stars is a program working to develop 1,000 community leaders in Chicago by 2020. Learn how to get involved here
The Mystery of Honest Abe's Watch
As a boy, Waukegan resident Douglas Stiles was told a story that his great-great grandfather, Jonathan Dillon, repaired the watch of Abraham Lincoln in 1861. The story also went that during that repair, Dillon scrawled something on the watch's inside. Was the story true? Take a look for yourself.
The High Price of Art
The Chicago Park District's Committee on Programs and Recreation approved a measure to increase general admission prices to the Art Institute by 50%. If passed by the board, prices will jump from $12 to $18. Seniors and student prices will also increase from $5 to $12.
Close It Out
Did you know that setting a minimum on credit card tabs is against credit card company rules? Bars do it anyway.
A Chris Ware Conversation
Graphic novelists Chris Ware and Marjane Satrapi discuss the art of storytelling and capturing the texture of life on paper.
Documenting Vanishing Significant Buildings
Former GB staffer and web extraordinaire Dan X. O'Neil just launched a new website that documents buildings on the city's Demolition Hold List. If you'd like to know how he made the site, check out his description of the process.
Chicago's Immigration: From Eastern European to Latin American
The NY Times' newest feature on immigration has maps and data about the rate and composition of immigration since 1890. The information is national in scope, but there's plenty of local detail, like this school composition data.
Book Club: The Book of Ralph Discussion Questions
The Book Club continues next Monday, March 16, with our discussion of John McNally's The Book of Ralph, a somewhat comedy, somewhat coming-of-age story about two very mismatched friends. You can check out the discussion questions on the Book Club page now, then join us at the Book Cellar to discuss it in person. New members are always welcome to join.
Poster Design Contest for Chicago Public Library
The Chicago Public Library is accepting submissions for a poster design contest to promote the library and its "Not What You Think" campaign. Poster artist extraordinaire Jay Ryan will be among the judges. You can read all the official rules here. Submissions must be received by Thursday, April 9.
In the Name of Record Sales
U2 in Chicago: they weren't there to rock, but to talk. Kot and DeRo weren't impressed.
Newspapers Turn to Mudslinging
As times get tougher for print publications, I'm sure we'll be hearing more stories about aggressive advertising campaigns like this one.
Chinese Embassy Hosts Hundreds of Tibetans
More than 1,000 Tibetans and supporters protested at the Chicago Chinese Consulate today, the 50th anniversary of Tibetan Uprising Day.
Could The Fridge Fit in the Lincoln Bedroom?
Obama's love of Chicago sports reared its head again recently, as The Daily Show's John Stewart pointed out on last night's show (it comes at about the 2:00 mark). Let's just say the Bulls get a little spanking from Stewart and even the '85 Bears come under scrutiny.
CraigsList Erotic Services Drop
A week after Cook County Sheriff Tom Dart sued CraigsList to stop allowing "erotic services" ads on its site, CL reports that its listings of that type are down 90 percent. We already knew they were lower than elsewhere in the country.
More Sandbags, Please
Given continued rain forecasts, the Trib provides a Q & A about flooding and how to protect against it.
Achatz on Oprah
Chef Grant Achatz appeared on Oprah this morning, talking about his cancer diagnosis and recovery. Chicago Celebrity Examiner has a couple quotes from the show; catch it again on ABC-7 tonight at 11:05.
A Lovely Day For A Counter Protest
Members of Fred Phelps' Westboro Baptist Church appeared on the campus of the University of Chicago yesterday to protest President Barack Obama's ties to the university's law school. The U of C community was there to welcome them with a counter protest. A counter protest which included marshmallows and fraternity brothers in boxers, apparently. More pictures from the day's events can be found here.
Barker Law Reconsidered
Ald. Ed Burke reintroduced a bill requiring mandatory sterilization of dogs and cats yesterday. The Chicago and Illinois Veterinarian Medical Associations both oppose the legislation.
Cross-reference That Cookbook
Recipe Comparison is a local site that allows you to search for recipes and compare them across several major recipe sites. Great for dishes where there's no one way to do it.
Quinn And Durbin Want HSR
It's nice to know that Gov. Quinn and Sen. Durbin are interested in spending some of Illinois stimulus money on something actually stimulating: high speed rail.
Need to Print Some Résumés?
If so, head to FedEx Office (formerly FedEx Kinkos, formerly Kinkos...) today for their free résumé printing service.
U2's Day in Chicago
U2 will be all over the city tomorrow -- particularly on WXRT, who will feature a day of U2 programming leading up to members of the band guest DJing the station from 8 to 9pm from an "undisclosed location."
Dog Gone?
Time Out Chicago is reporting that Rockstar Dogs, the only place in Chicago where a person could shamelessly order a footlong "Tommy Lee", may be no more.
Historic Buildings and Park Designated
According to the Illinois Historic Preservation Agency, Chicago's Inland Steel Building, Spiegel Office Building, and Independence Park were all recently added to the National Register of Historic Places.
Funeral for a Funeral Museum
The New York Times writes about the Museum of Funeral Customs down in Springfield, which finds itself on the verge of death due to lack of funding. Too bad -- it seems like a logical road trip destination starting from the International Museum of Surgical Sciences here in Chicago.
Does Going Digital = Death to Print?
The Sun-Times is on the shortlist of newspapers that Time has predicted will either fold or go digital in the near future. Sun-Times tweets that they "don't buy it."
Encyclopedic Performance
In A/C, Lindsay Muscato interviews one of the founders of The Encyclopedia Show, a new monthly performance series.
Driving While Brown
A study finds that Latinos are being pulled over more frequently by police in some parts of Chicagoland. Read more in this month's Chicago Reporter.
What Your Boss Can & Can't Do
Can My Boss Do That?, a new website from Interfaith Workers Justice, answers the question with resources and information regarding hiring and firing practices, health insurance and other benefits, safety regulations and more.
The Downside to Property Tax Caps
Payton Chung explains why property taxes will increase this year even though the market value of most property will drop.
How Can Filling 4,000 Potholes a Day Not be Enough?
Since December, the city filled more than 200,000 potholes, leaving -- supposedly -- a surplus of 7,000 unfilled potholes.
Underground Comics Queen Tells All
It hasn't been easy, but formerly Chicago-based independent cartoonist, teacher, and wind energy protester Lynda Barry has risen through a troubled childhood and rocky adulthood to become a creative legend.
Happy Birthday to You!
Happy birthday to you! Watch out for the zombies! Happy Birthday to you!
Colbert Spotted in the Wild
Stephen Colbert and Paul Dinello showed up on a 1990 episode of "Wild Chicago" for about 10 seconds. Watch it on YouTube! (Tip from No Fact Zone.)
9 Girls, 1 Hotel Room
Sleepover 2.0 is an overnight show featuring nine women in a room at Hotel Sax, talking about all sorts of things and streaming it live on the Internet from 4pm Saturday till 10am Sunday.
Big Day for Music Fans
In addition to the Pitchfork and Lollapalooza news, U2 has announced that they will be kicking off their North American tour at Soldier Field in September.
Small Fire Breaks Out at Marina City Tower
Chicago Carless blogger Mike Doyle lives in Marina City, and started tweeting just now as a cooking fire broke out in the east tower. According to Mike, it seems that the staff at the tower could not locate the key to the elevators, and the fire department had to hoof their equipment up the stairs. Hopefully, since this seems to have been a small fire, there were no injuries or major damage. [Update: We've learned from Marina City Online that it was actually a false automatic alarm.]
Homeless But Not Hopeless
A homeless poet finds salvation in his words. Hear some of his work over at Medill Reports.
Close, But No Cigar
Where can a guy puff away on a good Macanudo in Chicago? Since the citywide smoking ban took place, not too many places it seems, as one dedicated stogie fan finds out.
Pitchfork Bands Announced
The Pitchfork Music Festival announced the first batch of confirmed acts performing July 17-19 in Union Park; check out the list in Transmission. Tickets go on sale next Friday.
50 Years of Fruit Flies
Speaking of the Drosophila Research Conference, the Tribune has a fun look at some of the odd names mutant fruit flies are given.
Another Paper Folds
Wednesday Journal Inc. is closing its Chicago Journal West Town and selling off two other papers.
Is it Time to Clean Your Kitchen?
Or, perhaps, is it time to attend the 50th annual Drosophila Research Conference?
Quitting While You're Ahead?
Jim Scherr, the CEO of the U.S. Olympic Committee, resigned today.
When Dinner Freezes Over
Cooking becomes a party in your refrigerator in this week's Drive-Thru feature.
The Dean Departs
Theodore "Ted" O'Neill, director of College admissions at the University of Chicago, will be retiring from the job in June. He will remain at the U of C as a full-time teacher, writer, and researcher.
Lewis Meme
Now that Obama has a Presidential Seal, what's his old logo up to?
IL Medical Marijuana Bill Moves Forward
Yesterday, an Illinois House committee voted 4-3 on a bill that would bring medical marijuana to the state. Chicago Public Radio spoke to Rep. Lou Lang (D) and Rep. Patricia Bellock (R) to get perspective from both sides of the aisle. (Interesting side note: medical marijuana has apparently been legal in Illinois since '78, but never put into practice.)
Plus Tapes
Over in Transmission this week, we take a peek at underground label Plus Tapes and all the excitement over that great tape hiss sound we've been missing for too long.
Vote by Mail?
At $33 a vote, the county and city are petitioning to conduct future special elections by mail. Interesting sidebar: campaign per vote cost ranged from $33 to $282.
Craig the Pimp?
Cook County Sheriff Tom Dart is planning to sue CraigsList for running ads for prostitution.
Lost Connections
My family lineage is a bit murky and hard to trace, so I'm always flummoxed when people ask me where my ancestral heritage came from. Even so, I'm enthralled by the stories of Chicagoans who can visit the homes their ancestors lived in -- but this post by John Tolva is one of the best I've read.
"Commissioner Tweetie"
Cook County Commissioner Tony Paraica has been live-tweeting board meetings.
And Then Shangri-La Vanished
The proposed Wacker Drive Shangri-La Hotel has been put on indefinite hiatus. Blair Kamin wants to know what would you do with the partially completed tower?
The Ever-Shrinking Paper
The Sun-Times launched today a downloadable "PM Edition" in PDF format (today's issue is 10 pages long), so you can print it out or read it on your laptop on your way home.
"That's a lot of notes!"
GB flickr pool contributer Joseph Voves took a photo of dozens of his books and labeled them all for our enjoyment.
Tesla to Electrify Chicago
Tesla Motors, the company behind the electric Tesla Roadster, is opening its first dealership outside of California here in Chicago. [via]
Beyond the Borders
Some local indie sellers are doing just fine even as major chain bookstores struggle.
No Time for Laissez-faire
Besides not mentioning the CTA Daley still hasn't revealed much of his wish list from the stimulus package. Not that it mattered since Illinois has yet to submit any project for funding. With all the distractions in Springfield its easy to forget there is work to be done.
Obit: Richard Pegue
Richard "Doctor Dusty" Pegue, the Chicago DJ who most recently worked at WKKC (but who had also been heard on WVON AND WCGI), died yesterday. Those not familiar with Pegue's legacy can read Ben Joravsky's profile from 1998 to find out about the man.
$2.5 Billion
That's how much the U of C's Crime Lab estimates gun violence costs Chicago every year.
Nate Silver Projects Projecting Quigley Win
At 70% of the vote in, Nate Silver notes that it appears Mike Quigley is going to win Rahm Emmanuel's seat. UPDATE: Quigley officially won the special primary.
Conrad Black: Life Is Good In Prison
You know who's doing alright in the cage? Conrad Black that's who. According to the Associated Press via Crain's, "Convicted former media mogul Conrad Black says his first year in prison has been surprisingly pleasant and he is using his time in jail to teach, write and expand his social circle." Here's to hoping he doesn't like it so much that when he gets out he plans to mess up another newspaper... that is if there are any left by then.
Calling All 5th District Residents
If you live here, you have until 7pm tonight to vote in the special primary to name nominees for the April 7th election for Rahm Emanuel's vacated US House of Representatives seat.
Lights, Camera, Chicago
According to MovieMaker, Chicago is the best city for independent moviemakers, offering "the best all-around chance of finding success with their art during these tough economic times." [via]
The Increasing Significance of Surveillance Cameras
Thanks to a $6 million Homeland Security grant, the city of Chicago has integrated the 911 emergency response center with video feeds from the city's cameras, as well as those from 20 private institutions. An additional 17 organizations are expected to sign on shortly.
The Great Silent Lake
According to this somewhat confusing graph, Chicago is the world's third most innovative hub, behind only Silicon Valley and Tokyo, in terms of the number diversity of separate companies developing new patents. [via]
We're Gonna Build Something This Summer
Haven't you always wanted to build your own furniture? In A/C, Christian Scheuer shows you how to make a cool side table.
ChicagoCrafty.com
Every time I swear I have a handle on the local craft scene, I end up realizing that I know so very little about what is going on and who is making it happen. Thankfully, Christine Renee of Re-Conceived.com and maker of the Zombie Escape Plan has created Chicago Crafty, where she'll put up links to all the local makers, shows, boutiques that sell locally-made goods, art exhibits, calls for action, opportunities, networks, and oh my word! so much more. It's only been up a short time and it's chock-full of fantastic info already.
A Little Penny Pinching
The Chicago HQ of McDermott Will & Emery is cutting free coffee in the lobby and evening meals, but the partners aren't pleased.
Our Tea May be Safe Again
Remember the call for a Chicago Tea Party? Well, the idea's originator, Rick Santelli, is distancing himself from the ramifications of the statement.
Learn About the Illinois 05 Candidates Here
With the IL-05 special election basically upon us it's a good time to bone up on the candidates. For the short version read my post over at Mechanics. For the better (and longer, of course) rundown, checkout this great post at ProgressIllinois.
Fire on Hollywood Ave.
There's an extra-alarm fire at 1040 W. Hollywood. Blogger Craig Gernhardt is on the scene, posting live updates on The Broken Heart of Rogers Park.
Book-gojevich
The Sun-Times' Lynn Sweet reports that former Illinois governor Rod Blagojevich will be writing "The Governor" for Phoenix Books. Gov. Rod "will write about his journey that led up to the twice-elected governor and former congressman being ousted from office." The book is scheduled to be released this October, just in time to make an excellent present for your favorite winter holiday.
Nizzle of Izzle
Snoop Dogg announced that he's joined the Nation of Islam after appearing at Saviours' Day celebrations here in Chicago this weekend.
Calling All Sports Fans
The Sun-Times wants you to voice your opinions (and/or vent your frustrations) on the state of Chicago athletics for their second annual Sports Fan Survey.
Burris Will Take Your Money
Speaking of Burris, although he hasn't decided to run for reelection (errr election) or not he's already set up a website complete with a contributions option.
Happy Pulaski Day!
Unless you're a K-12 student or a government official, you might have forgotten that the first Monday in March is Casimir Pulaski Day. Chicago Public Schools, Cook County government offices, and the Chicago Public Libraries are closed today.
Trailblazers-in-Waiting
A lot of people want Roland Burris' job, according to the NY Times.
Let the Race Begin!
With state politics in disarray, state Senator Bill Brady is now officially running for Governor.
AV-aerie Closed
Time Out Chicago is reporting that AV-aerie, the performance space used for music events and the occasional crafting event (like DEPART-ment), was closed following a visit by city officials. If you were planning to attend a show at the space, it's been moved elsewhere, so you might want to check on that.
RIP Paul Harvey
In what's been a tough week in terms of local legends passing on, radioman Paul Harvey passed away last night at age 90. He's known for his popular segment "The Rest of the Story," but he also coined or popularized the terms "Reaganomics" and "guesstimate."
