Michigan Avenue Block Party
Michigan Avenue will be blocked off from Wacker Drive to Ohio Street for more than two days on Sept. 8. Guess which local mogul is hosting the little shindig with the Black Eyed Peas - Hint: All of Chicago is invited.
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
Thursday, October 23
Merge
Monthly Archive
August 2009
85% Beef, 15% Lamb, 100% Tasty and Free
Don't miss out on a free gyro tomorrow, courtesy of our very own Kronos Foods, Inc (thanks for the tip, Jough).
Up, Up, and Away!
Disney may have acquired Marvel, but superheroes and anti-heroes will still be out in full force in a few weeks at the Windy City Comicon, a growing and lively comic convention featuring a diverse array of local talent.
We're Doomed
What (Lake Michigan, apparently) sharks dream about. (Warning: One naughty word.)
Button Down Interview
In A/C, Lindsay Muscato talks with Busy Beaver owner Christen Carter about how she got started and the company's new store.
Fresh Off the (College) Boat
The Straight Dope offers advice for incoming students new to Chicago.
Pasties and Bowling Balls
Tickets are going fast for both Lebowski Fest and "Rollin' Outta Here Naked: A Big Lebowski Burlesque" -- which will be making a special appearance at the Fest in addition to its September run at Gorilla Tango Theater.
Jazz Lives!
Speaking of Jazz, Howard Reich spent some time discussing why the National Endowment for the Arts' Arts Participation 2008 [pdf] survey document doesn't reflect the Chicago experience.
Now Is the Time
...To prepare for Jazz Fest next week. And the Now Is concert calendar is your best resource for all the unofficial shows happening around the festival.
Getting Jobs
The good news: Chicago's unemployment rate went down in July.
The bad news: It's still up nearly five points over last year.
Alinea Live!
Speaking of Alinea, you can watch Grant Achatz and team planning the fall meeting live on JustinTV. Follow @Gachatz on Twitter for heads up on future broadcasts. UPDATE: Well, that was quick. They finished the meeting just after noon, but promise to be back Saturday night around 8:45pm for about an hour. Tune in!
Back to the Land
Andie Thomalla heads out of the city for a decadent farm dinner (with some Shakespeare and microgreen gardening thrown in) in this week's Drive-Thru feature.
Celery Salt, Maybe?
Absolut is rolling out a series of city-themed vodkas, and Grub Street Chicago asks, what would Chicago-flavored vodka taste like?
Food Tech
Alinea partner Nick Kokonas has been blogging on Gizmodo about some of the technology used in the restaurant, including a failed attempt at making culinary snow.
That's Like 100 in Club Years
Venerable new wave/goth night club Neo turns 30 next week.
Coal-Fired Power Plants Challenged
Midwest Generation, LLC, the Edison International subsidiary that runs the Fisk and Crawford coal-burning power plants on the South Side (and four others in Illinois), is being sued by the state and U.S. EPA for allegedly upgrading systems without meeting current Clean Air Act controls.
Don't Forget to Duck
Dodgeball ninjas are on the loose!
Serenade Your City
The Chicago Public Library is hosting the ChiPubLib Sound Off Music Contest, where the city's musicians are challenged to compose an original, Chi-town-inspired song and upload video of their performance of it to the Not What You Think Vimeo group. A celebration of the winning songs will be held at Pritzker Park in October.
Chicago Rocks
The Society of American Travel Writers has named Chicago #5 on their list of "Top 10 Cities for Live Music." The voting writers noted that Chicago kills for live blues, and that music is "all here, all the time." Nicely put.
More Proof You Wasted Your Youth
The king of Chicago crime blogging? A 16-year-old boy. TimeOut Chicago reveals the force behind the Avondale and Logan Square Crime Blotter.
Two Shot in Loop (Developing)
Multiple news sources are reporting on a developing story of an officer and another man shot in the Loop around 1pm today. Chicago Now has it that a man tried to steal a woman's purse and a nearby policeman called for him to stop (perhaps after the man also then held a knife to a woman's neck) and then shot the attacker. UPDATE: The policeman was wounded but saved by his bulletproof vest. Meanwhile, the Sun-Times reports the officer was stabbed, not shot. Apparenly the officer was shot accidentally by another cop on the scene. The man has been declared dead at Northwestern Memorial Hospital. Here's a view from above of the scene.
Point-Counterpoint on Ferris Bueller's Day Off
Decider A.V. Chicago writers David Wolinsky and Kyle Ryan debate whether Ferris Bueller's Day Off is true to Chicago. (The film screens tonight and tomorrow at the Music Box, by the way.)
"Would Teddy Run?"
The Sun-Times looks into the late Ted Kennedy's ties to Chicago, from the infamous 1968 Democratic National Convention and an endorsement from then-Mayor Richard J. Daley, to the to the Merchandise Mart and the Rehabilitation Institute of Chicago.
The New Lakefront Building
The new DuSable Harbor Building is winning praises for its modern and earthen sides, although there are already complaints about upkeep.
Watch Where You Point That Lighter!
Two women who run a nail salon in Countryside were convicted of aggravated battery for threatening their landlord with a gun...shaped lighter. They claim they were using the lighter as part of a prayer ceremony; he says he feared for his own life and that of his young daughter. Despite their conviction, at least the women know they have a loyal customer base -- a crowd of more than 20 showed up to support them.
A Decade that Rocked
In Transmission, we have a guest feature from Chicago writer and radio personality James VanOsdol on his project to put pen to paper on the city's music scene in the 1990s.
Beyond Kuma's
The Tribune's "Cheeseburger Bureau Chief," Kevin Pang, host of CLTV's The Cheeseburger Show--which launched new episodes today--beefs up Chicagoans on extraordinary burgers. This week takes Pang to the (gasp) burbs.
A Daily Dose of Cute
ZooBorns blogs the newest arrivals at zoos around the world from its home base in Wicker Park [via]
Subliminal Advertising?
Sex sells, right? That might explain the unexpected image Transmission staffer Liz McLean Knight noticed on an iGo brochure bearing her likeness.
Emmett Till's Original Casket Going to Washington
The National Museum of African American History and Culture will take possession of Emmett Till's glass-topped coffin on the 54th anniversary of his death. The ceremony will take place at Roberts Temple Church of God in Christ, the same location as his funeral.
Going, Going, Gone
If you've ever had the desire to see a 2.7-million-square-foot post office auctioned, head to the Intercontinental Chicago O'Hare Hotel in Rosemont by 1pm today. UPDATE: The building sold for $40 million to an as-yet unknown bidder, Chicago Real Estate Daily reports.
Steve Stone in Playgirl?!
The things you learn from someone's Wikipedia entry. Here's the semi-SFW (no full frontal) pictorial. Delicious innuendo: "Many ballplayers were dazzled by Steve's slick curve ball."
Party with Gapers Block!
We've been teasing it on Twitter for a couple weeks, and we've finally announced it: the 6th annual Gapers Block Party! Next Friday, Sept. 4, we'll be at the Metro with Nikki Lynette, The Hood Internet, Blane Fonda and Panda Riot -- plus other fun stuff! Free before 9:30pm, $6 after -- kick off your Labor Day Weekend right!
Inspector General Quits, Announces Run for Senate
Good for him, and bad for us: Inspector General David Hoffman has quit his job and is now running for senate.
Look for the LHS
Today might not be the most fun for it, but the Chicago Architecture Foundation runs a tour of Louis Sullivan buildings in the Loop, including one today at 2:30pm.
Mistaken Identity
Imagine if your identity was stolen by a criminal with more than credit card fraud on his record -- and the police find you first. It happened to Loyola student Darius Whitehorn, and led to a week spent in jail.
Your Ticket to Indian Film
If you're interested in Bollywood movies but don't know where to start, let The Bollywood Ticket be your guide. Written in Chicago with an American perspective, it's a good entree into the sprawling Hindi cinema.
Giddyup, Internet!
A national report for Internet speeds in 2009 demonstrates our fine state is falling behind in Internet performance.
Woot! Robots!
Chris Ware fans had better head on over to shirt.woot.com right now; a limited edition T-shirt featuring Ware's artwork is on sale for today only.
Obit: Radley (1990-2009)
Radley, the resident cat at the Empty Bottle, passed away yesterday at the ripe old age of 19. Donations can be made in Radley's name to the American Liver Foundation.
WTF of the Day
This story contains nothing of obvious Chicago interest -- unless you're a Cubs fan. Then the idea of a goat potentially being sacrificed in connection with the Viking Brett Favre might make a little more sense. [via]
NYC Pigeons Beware!
Yet another Chicago comedian has been plucked to write for Saturday Night Live in only a few weeks. This time, it's standup comedian Hannibal Buress. If you're wondering about the title of this post, it refers to this. (Language may not be SFW.)
A Likely Story -- And Probably True
Guinness and the Mayor's Office of Special Events ruled the Grant Park showing of the Marx Brothers' Duck Soup broke the record for most people wearing Groucho glasses (4,436 frames) at one time on July 21.
Calling Florence Nightingale
A result of the economy, a lack of nursing graduates, and a possible wave of nurses retiring from the field, more of these health care professionals are needed, and Chicago is no exception.
The Reader's New Owners
A bankruptcy judge ruled this morning that Atalaya Capital Management made the winning bid for Creative Loafing, the corporate parent of the Reader. Here's a little background on their new overlords, and comments from now-former owner Ben Eason.
Meter Culpa
Today's best headline: "A meter culpa from the mayor" reads the Sun-Times' scoop that Daley will admit the City "totally screwed up" the parking meter privatization deal due to its desperation for money.
Trending Items
Chicago-based I Am The Trend aims to be your guide to indie clothing, music and art.
Mystery Journalism
So the Trib wants to do a serious assessment of taxing junk food. To whom should it turn? Kelly Brownell, director of the Rudd Center for Food Policy and Obesity at Yale University? Sounds good. A report from the Urban Institute? A-OK. Military science fiction author Julie Cochrane? Huh?
Librarians on the Attack
A controversy is a-brewin' in Carol Stream, where a former library worker filed a federal discrimination lawsuit. She alleges her firing was political.
Au Revoir
Looks like Chicago Fire defender Bakary Soumare will be bidding a not-so-fond adieu to the MLS and heading to France as the newest member of Boulogne. Soumare hasn't played or practiced with the Fire since an "incident" involving coach Denis Hamlett three weeks ago.
Fun Shows Up In A Paper Hat
If someone handed you a paper hat this evening on a CTA Brown Line train, you were one of the lucky few players in the Paper Hat Game, a game invented by Scotty Iseri, local musician, performer and star of "Scotty Got An Office Job". Scotty's moving away soon, and so tonight's Paper Hat Game was the final one in Chicago. Unless, of course, you wanted to continue the tradition...
Bummer! Energy Drink Company Under Fire
Attorney General Lisa Madigan is going after the Chicago-based maker of a malt liquor energy drink which contains 12.5 percent alcohol by volume for its alleged questionable marketing tactics.
From Motown to Chi-Town in No Time
From Detroit to Chicago by rail in four hours? Dare to dream...
All Together Now
Coudal points us to a fantastic Budweiser commercial shot on the El (mostly the Brown Line), for the Irish beer drinking market if the URL attached to it is any indication. UPDATE: The Sun-Times gets the backstory on the ad.
Be Careful Out There
Apparently robberies including mugging were only up 1.1 percent through July, but it sure seems like violent crime is up more than that this summer, doesn't it? Anecdotal evidence sure points that way.
Nerds Like Sports, Too
Wish you knew more about football, but know how to learn? The Chicago Nerd Social Club is here to help. They're offering a Football 101 course, followed by a fantasy football league draft on Sept. 3.
Ramadan Mubarak!
FYI, Ramadan (or perhaps Ramzan) started on Saturday. Learn more about the holiday and related events around the city at ChicagoMuslims.com.
$22.5 Billion for Chicago?
Daley's estimate of that the Olympics will provide $22.5 billion in direct and indirect economic benefits to the Chicago region is being greeted with signifiant skepticism.
Feel the P-p-power
The PPPWRS -- that's the Power Wheel Racing Series -- is nearing its next race. Keep your eye out for more details.
Hecho en Chicago
No Manches is a t-shirt company specializing in designs with cultural relevance to Latin Americans -- but I think just about Chicagoan can get behind this shirt.
Failure to Yield to a Pedestrian = $50 to 500
The CPD will be continuing its crosswalk stings in the coming months, with the first happening today in Lakeview.
Talk Health Care with Chicago Tonight
WTTW's Chicago Tonight is devoting its September 1 show to health care reform, and is looking for interested audience members. "We'll be hearing from legislators, insurers, doctors and hospitals...but we also want to hear your questions and concerns," says an alert the channel sent to supporters today. To request a ticket, email the show or call 773-509-5590.
Pure Tastiness
We have a nice guide to good eats in Michigan and Indiana for your next trip in this week's Drive-Thru feature.
North Side Gators
An alligator was found lurking in the north branch of the Chicago River, near Damen and Fullerton. Last year, one was spotted in the south branch near Bridgeport.
Chicago Road Trip!
US News spent some time in Chicago and profiled DePaul, IIT, Northwestern and
UIC. Apparently, that constitutes a "Road Trip" these days.
Land of Cheap Big Mac Attacks
According to the Economist, in Chicago it takes just 12 minutes of work time to pay for a Big Mac. Compare that to Nairobi where it takes about 2.5 hours to earn a special sauce fix. (via).
Don't Forget the Beer
Forgotten Chicago focuses on Chicago's bygone breweries in its latest feature -- and has started selling some lovely photos of historic structures.
The Aon Center's New Blemish
Have you noticed the "nasty little carbuncle" on top of the Aon Center and wondered what it is? It's an antenna that was apparently designed without regard for the simple verticality of the building.
Dissecting the U of C's Endowment
The Wall Street Journal's recent look at college endowments features changes at the U of C, which has the 10th largest endowment in the country.
Chicago Magazine's 2009 Best of Chicago
It's probably time to rename this annual feature "Best of Chicagoland," considering a large portion of the list is out in the suburbs. (Not that there's anything wrong with that.)
White Sox, Black Ops
"Scholar, Lawyer, Catcher, Spy," a fascinating 1992 profile of Moe Berg, a third-string catcher for the White Sox -- and a WWII spy. [via]
Rob Ryan Adams
We were remiss in not pointing out Conor McCarthy's chuckle-worthy "Seven Crimes to Consider Before Music Piracy" in Mechanics on Monday.
At Least We Didn't Lose That Much
The heiress to the General Growth fortune recently lost $1.7 billion, $300 million of which she figures is the fault of a local law firm.
Celebrities for 2016
I'll withhold judgment as to whether he's the worst person in Chicago (despite his egotastic tweets), but Billy Dec sure knows how to put together vapid celebrity interviews in support of the 2016 Olympic bid.
Fill That Blank Spot on Your Wall
Hey! You have just a couple days left to purchase prints from the Gapers Block-curated "Chicago Week" on WallBlank. Prints by Dmitry Samarov, Sharon Parmet, Mark Hansen, David Schalliol and Clare Rosean are all still available.
Arts Industrial Complex
The City is planning an arts district down near East Pilsen.
When Does a Couch Belong in the Backyard?
When it's made out of sod, of course.
What's Your Chicago Look Like?
CBS2Chicago's Capture My Chicago is an effort to, well, capture "your" Chicago in pictures. The project starts online, but will be turned into a book.
At Least They're Employed
Time Out takes a look at the secret life of the Chicagoan bomb squad technician, pot dealer, fantasy specialist, sensual masseuse, well, you get the idea.
Forget About the Land Shark... Look Out for These Dolphins
Step carefully when visiting the dolphin show at Brookfield Zoo. A woman filed a lawsuit against the Brookfield Zoo regarding a spill she took leaving the dolphin show. Her complaint is that the dolphins have been "willfully and recklessly" trained to make the steps slippery. (Via Chicago Now)
The Newest Apple Product?
I learned something new about the Illinois State Bar Association when I was asked to be a reference for a hopeful future lawyer. I needed to go to the website for the Illinois Board of Admissions to the Bar in order to do that. What's the website, you ask? ibaby.org. That's right: iBaby. Apparently, it stands for "Illinois Board of Admissions to the Bar ... and You," but I can't say I was overwhelmed with confidence by their domain name choice.
Tell 'Em You Were There
So you're a die hard White Sox fan who is still kicking themselves for missing Mark Buehrle's perfect game. Well, chin up, you can still tell your friends you were there. Sort of. (Via Deadspin)
The Fascinating Ricky Jay
A captivating anecdote in the bar of the Chicago Ritz-Carlton leads off this 1993 profile of the magician turned actor Ricky Jay, dug up in the New Yorker archives by Kottke.org.
Bring an Urban Farmer to Chicago
Novella Carpenter found a vacant lot in her Oakland, Calif. neighborhood and started planting. Her memoir about this DIY urban farm was just profiled in Flavorpill. And according to her blog, she'd love to take her knowledge on the road in October and teach workshops about urban farming all over the country (including Chicago). So pony up your couch or some cash and help bring her here.
"I Had Literally Become a Numbskull."
As Chicago Mag's Jeff Ruby highlights the 30 best burgers in Chicago, he was hit with a consequential downside to his summer burger epic.
Ice Cream Man's Chimes No Longer Reel or Rock
The New York Times Dining section reports on last year's banning of ice cream trucks from the 18th Ward and modern parents annoyed with ice-cream-demanding toddlers and chain-smoking, shirtless, and burping ice cream vendors.
Over the Ledge
You've seen plenty of views of and from the Sears/Willis Tower's "Ledge," but here's a new one: filming it from the outside. [via]
Princess Pugnacious Chablis Needs You
Do you love both pugs and wine? You might want to check out Alpanah Singh's Pug Chug this Saturday at Juicy Wine Co. For $45, you get a wine tasting, tasty food and a silent auction, all to benefit pug rescue.
It's Not Just the Mercury Now
Researchers have found that eating Great Lakes fish is associated with the development of diabetes because of DDE, the metabolite of DDT.
Active Teens
What were you doing as a teenager during the summer? I bet you weren't making hard-hitting documentaries on serious topics like the teens at Community TV Network are for their CAN TV 19 show "Hard Cover." They have several movies as well several shorter videos on YouTube dealing with topics like rape culture, Hip Hop, media literacy, as well as the trailer for Trauma, their upcoming feature-length film about gun violence in Chicago. Who says journalism is dying?
Local Companies to Know
Twenty-three Chicagoland businesses made the Inc. 500 list this year; an additional 201 Illinois companies made the expanded Inc. 5,000.
Treat Tweeting
For foodies and boozers around Chicago, Wait Watcher tweets wait times at key restaurants and bars. Developed by the Onion's AV Chicago section, local restaurant-goers can text or call in wait times to help their fellow diners.
Coulson In Running For Kirk's House Seat
GOP state Representative Beth Coulson will jump in the race for Mark Kirk's House seat on August 24th. According to Roll Call "Coulson is likely to be the most liberal Republican in the field, and she is considered even more ideologically moderate than Kirk."
Shambling Through the Second City
We debut a new occasional feature in A/C today: Chicago Revenant, which sheds light on some of the lesser known neighborhoods of the city. First up, Dunning and Schorsch Village on the Northwest Side.
Editorial Cartoons Making a Comeback
Nine years after the death of Jeff MacNelly, the Chicago Tribune's editorial cartoonist, the paper has hired Scott Stantis to pen original work for the paper. For a glimpse of what to expect from Stantis (and the Trib's editorial vision), check out this gallery of selected work.
Bums Out of Office
I've had photos of this sitting in iPhoto for more than a month, but Chicagoist finally posted photos of an awesome storefront anti-parking meter protest in Lincoln Square.
Anti-Violence, Anti-Shiller
The anti-violence protest in Uptown last night effectively derailed a discussion of the Olympic bid and chased Alderman Helen Shiller out of the room, and garnered a ton of coverage.
RIP Robert Novak
Sun-Times columnist Robert Novak has died. Here's the editorial board's obit.
The Rosemont Sky?
The Chicago Sky is packing up basketballs and moving out to the Allstate Arena.
Obama Joker Artist Revealed
The person who created the image of Obama in Joker makeup turns out to be a U of I student -- but he says he's not the one who added the word "socialism" to the image and pasted it up around town and elsewhere.
Political History for Sale
Well, "history" may be a strong word, but Tony Rezko's 8,400-square-foot mansion just sold at auction for $2.8 million. Even after the sale, Rezko still owes more than $3 million on the house.
"Eagle Attacks Dog In Chicago."
Yep, that's all Life Magazine has to say about this odd series of photographs from 1962. Nonetheless, that's one angry bird.
Chicago at Night & a Few Other Things
A handy checklist of things you should do in the city. [via]
Cubs on Life Support?
"If health reform were a baseball team, it would be the Chicago Cubs," says Bruce Reed on Slate. GB reader Zac Thomspon says, "Maybe it's finally our year?"
I Love You Oprah: a Sonnet
Bad poetry is always bad.
Good Numbers For Kirk
A recent Rasmussen poll found Representative Mark Kirk polling ahead of both Democratic candidates for President Obama's former senate seat.
North Siders Get Together
Want to get to know the Near North a bit better? The Local Tourist is hosting a meet & greet on Sept. 1, and you're invited. Pay a little extra for the swag bag and help out two great causes.
MSNEveryBloCk
EveryBlock, the Chicago-based news and public information aggregator, has been acquired by MSNBC.com. Crain's has some more detail.
Bacon Lettuce Tomato
Chicago Tomato Fest says, "This may be a 'Reduced Services Day' for the City, but it's an 'Increased BLT Day' for us." Make an old-school BLT and enter their contest, or just find a tasty one at participating restaurants. (More about the fest here.)
6 Ring Circus TV
Apparently the US Olympic Committee was contemplating creating an Olympics TV channel. And it may have been hurting Chicago's 2016 bid. But fear not, they've scrapped the network.
City Mostly Closed Today
Monday, Aug. 17 is a "reduced services day" for the City; it's really the one we'd normally see on New Year's Eve, apparently. Only essential services remain open: fire and police -- and, interestingly, meter maids and boot vans.
On What Does Your Alderman Spend $73,000 a Year?
Aldermen have expense accounts to make a variety of payments, apparently including those for a Lexus 460 and cable television. Find out what yours spends.
Turning Up the Heat on Top Chef?
Seems like a few bloggers are stirring up controversy over something many Chicago residents have known for years: Rick Bayless cooks delicious Mexican food. [via] Read further thoughts in Drive-Thru.
GB Book Club: The Echo Maker
Another month, another book for the Gapers Block Book Club. For September, we will be reading The Echo Maker by Richard Powers, the National Book Award-winning novel about the fragility and resiliency of the human mind. Read the introduction on the book club blog, and then join us at The Book Cellar on Monday, September 14, to talk about the book. See Slowdown for details.
Best Dancer Ever
WGN-TV Feature Reporter Marcus Leshock caught this guy getting really into a DJ set at Lollapalooza last weekend. (Thanks, Brett!)
Grrr. Arrgh.
Sue, the Field Museum's T-Rex, is on Twitter, tweeting about meat-eating, being an apex predator, and her repulsively tiny forearms (which, apparently, text just fine). She also plans to be at the Air and Water Show. (Via.)
Uptown Street Fight Caught on Video
Uptown Update has some amazing video of a street brawl that broke out around 9pm Wednesday night. (via)
Chicago Week Today: Clare Rosean
Our fifth Chicago Week feature, "Blue Mountain," by Clare Rosean, is now available in A/C. You can also jump straight to the print's page on Wall Blank.
Gettin' Soupy in the Kitchen
It's hot outside, but it's still a good time for a bowl of (chilled) soup in this week's Drive-Thru feature.
Insert Horrible Pun About LEEDing the Way
Bill Clinton told a group of college administrators at the Palmer House that they need to go green faster, giving Columbia College and UIC the chance to discuss their newest efforts.
Beer Thrower Identified, Turned Himself In
Two misdemeanors later, the Cubs beer perp is out of lock up, and the wrongly detained Dan DeLaPaz is free -- but no one from the Cubs organization has apologized to him.
Good Answers to a Non-Question
This Ask MetaFilter multi-part question from a recent newcomer to Chicago is chock full of great info, especially if you don't understand The Grid.
Shopping, Classes Weekend at OTS
This weekend is the annual store sale at the Old Town School of Folk Music. Two days of sales on everything in their extensive music store! Details in Slowdown. Also, the next session at the school starts up August 31. If you sign up for a class at the school before Monday, you'll save $15 on tuition! So you can buy an instrument this weekend, and then sign up for a class to learn how to play it.
The Spire Looking Less Likely
The Spire is drilling its way back into the headlines with a new lawsuit brought by Bank of America against Shelbourne Development for its failure to repay $4.9 million.
Historically Speaking, of Course
The Chicago Reader's blog points us to this home video from the 1930s that shows plenty of family and canine fun but also gives a rare moving picture look into Jackson Park and the lakefront.
Shhh....Secret Supper on Southport
Southport Grocery and Cafe just announced their next Secret Supper, to be held Thurs., August 20 at 7pm. What will you get to eat? It's a secret! Call 773-665-0100 lickety-split to secure a spot.
CTA Cuts on Campus
Taking the bus to classes in Hyde Park? Maybe not anymore. The CTA has eliminated two bus routes to the U. of Chicago, and cut hours on two more.
Chicago Week Today: David Schalliol
Our fourth Chicago Week feature, "Isolated Building Study 42 (Chud's)," by David Schalliol, is now available in A/C. You can also jump straight to the print's page on Wall Blank.
Daley's Got His Back
About that Chicago alderman who admits he used his clout to get his daughter into Whitney Young High School? Yeah, Mayor Daley's cool with that.
Northside Attacks Spawn Facebook Group
The Trib's John Kass points to a Facebook group "Lakeview 911" that was created this month to gather "concerned citizens" who want to connect about the recent muggings in the neighborhood. Remember EveryBlock is also a great local resource on crime stats relative to your street, no matter where you live in the city.
Now I See Why They Need the Balloon Ride
The Metropolitan Pier and Exposition Authority, aka McPier, is in big financial trouble. Last month, the group needed $18.8 million from the state to make a bond payment.
APB for a J.E.R.K.
Hey, Guy Who Dumped A Beer On Philadelphia Philies Outfielder Shane Victorino In Last Night's Game (not this guy, who was tossed out the park for it): the Cubs, Victorino and the cops want to talk to you. UPDATE: The culprit turned himself in.
Hot Dog Ballin'
Sweet Chicago-themed custom Lebron James Nikes by Jeffrey Zimmerman. [via]
Jogger Shot in Rogers Park
A man taking an evening run last night was shot in an apparent robbery attempt around 10pm on the 7000 block of North Sheridan. Luckily the jogger was not seriously injured.
Autism Language Center to Open
By Your Side, a new autism-focused speech and language therapy center, will open in Burr Ridge on October 5. The center is conducting free in-home program evaluations until that date (a $225 value); to learn more, call 888-288-7667.
Should I Stay or Should I Go?
Love em' or hate em' (and their fans), this site answers a question relevant to irate Wrigleyville dwellers, Cubs devotees, and many more.
The New Face of Justice?
A TV judge based in Chicago is hearing a case involving a man who displays disfigured animals and a woman who didn't sell him her five legged Chihuahua-terrier mix. So this is what I'm missing on daytime television...
Chicago Week Today: Mark Hansen
Our third Chicago Week feature, "Untitled," by Mark Hansen, is now available in A/C. You can also jump straight to the print's page on Wall Blank.
Rock On, Chicago!
Are you fascinated by the music scene in Chicago during the 90's? Would you like to read a book written by James VanOsdol, former host of Q101's The Local Music Showcase? Well, thanks to KickStarter.com you can make that book a reality by pledging money to fund this DIY venture. He's $12,000 from his goal so help him write on, Chicago!
Up! Up! But Not Away!
Visitors to Navy Pier could get the chance to take a 15-minute ride in a hot air balloon (that would remain tethered to the ground, alas) as early as this year. [via]
Short Tales of Loss & Love
It Was Over When, brief stories of the moment you knew -- and its corollary, It Was Love When.
$5 Portraits Help Abused Women
Want your portrait made? Live in Wicker Park? For $5 you can pose for Wicker Park-based photographer Jennifer Bisbing and all the proceeds will go to Connections for Abused Women and their Children, a local women's shelter. Make an appointment by emailing jennifer@generationjennifer.com, and check out the project's progress through the rest of 2009.
A Troublesome Yawn
Was it a "boisterous" yawn or was it "not an outrageous yawn?" What is clear is a man will serve at least 23 days for it -- and maybe as much as six months.
Streets a Little Safer, Maybe
Suspects have been arrested in connection the recent spate of muggings in Lincoln Park and Roscoe Village -- which isn't to say you shouldn't be on your guard when walking alone late at night.
Chicago Week Today: Sharon Parmet
Our second Chicago Week feature, "Like an Asteroid," by Sharon Parmet, is now available in A/C. You can also jump straight to the print's page on Wall Blank.
Gimme Fuel
Starting Thursday, Chicago cabbies will again be collecting a 50-cent-per-ride fuel surcharge, only three weeks after expiring. Yay increased gas prices.
It's a Bird! It's a Plane!
Get ready for some extraterrestial entertainment this evening and tomorrow morning when up to 100 meteors per hour will light the Chicago sky. The Adler Planetarium says the display could be the "most vibrant" in years.
Frozen Custard Summit
Scooter's Frozen Custard put some plastic chairs out on the sidewalk for patrons to sit. The City told them to stop. Patrons organized. The alderman is now intervening. (A much more interesting version of the tale.)
How Much is a Free Paper Worth?
Mechanics occasional contributor Mike Fourcher breaks down the numbers in the Creative Loafing (owners of the Chicago Reader) bankruptcy sale. [via] More from Michael Miner regarding Creative Loafings' owners' bid.
Transparency Gone Too Far?
Yesterday Tony Peraica launched CookEmployees.com, a site listing the names, titles, salary and hire date of every employee of Cook County government. While it certainly sheds light on a few things, not everyone thinks that much transparency is a good idea.
So Much for a Sense of Humor
Apparently a humorless Market Days visitor was so upset about the labeling of the Chicago Diner's tip jar as "Sarah Palin Retirement Fund," they're calling for an investigation of the Diner for "impersonating a charitable fund" and not revealing the jar would go to tips...
Establishment Temporarily Closed for Renovations
As anyone who has visited Millennium Park recently knows, the Burnham Plan centennial pavilions are taking a beating. To help out, Ben van Berkel's structure, which is pictured in Rearview today, will be closed for repairs during the next four days.
But What of the Busses Always Running in Threes?
The CTA Tattler has sliced and diced the stats behind calls to the CTA's customer service line. 2009 is shaping up to have a lower volume of calls thanks to the end of 3-track operations on the northern L lines and the wider implementation of CTA Bus Tracker.
What Makes a Place Great?
Placemaking Chicago asked that question earlier this year, and now they're asking you to vote on which photo and video is best.
Chicago Week Today: Dmitry Samarov
"O'Hare Staging Area #10," by Dmitry Samarov, is the first in a series of five works to be featured during Chicago Week, a collaboration between GB and Wall Blank. Each print will be available for one week through Wall Blank, with 10% of the proceeds benefiting Chicago Artists' Coalition. Check A/C every day this week for a new piece by and interview with a Chicago artist.
Look Sharp for that Interview
A stylist at Salon 64 in Edgewater is offering free haircuts for the unemployed. Full details here. (Thanks, Veronica!)
Some Fine T-shirts
The Fineprint has some neat t-shirts for showing Chicago pride. Case in point: this shirt featuring a takeoff of Harold's Chicken Shack's famous "dude chasing after a chicken with a meat cleaver" logo. [via]
New Number for Tattoos
As we mentioned back in 2007, November will be the roll out time for our new overlay area code: 872.
Number One Drug
Chicago ranks first in the nation for the number of people arrested while under the influence of drugs.
This Fully Operational ChicagoNow
ChicagoNow came out of beta today, with an expanded front page and 72 blogs in the stable, including GB's On Ramp (which you should totally be checking out).
Blagospot
Ex-guv Rod Blagojevich has launched a website: GovernorRod.com. "It was time," his publicist said.
Advertisements Creeping onto the Playing Field
The Bears' practice jerseys feature a prominently placed advertisement, and there's some question about where the ads will stop.
Air Attack
Don't fret, the rushing of jets you hear is just practice flights for the Chicago Air & Water Show this weekend. (Seems a bit early, but oh well.)
Homes and Homelessness
Chicago Public Radio asks "Should Empty Homes House Chicago's Poor?"
Blackhawks Kane Arrested in Buffalo
Blackhawks superstar Patrick Kane was arrested in Buffalo this morning for allegedly assaulting a cab driver and failing to pay the fare. Kane, 20, was in his hometown to announce funding to improve the local ice rink. Kane and a 21-year-old relative, who was also charged, are in holding.
Doors Open on the Right... At... Dammit! It's a Painting!
Cool! Here are "10 Awesome Images That Are Actually Paintings," including a nifty image of the Damen El station. And here's an even closer look.
Breakfast Club Burlesque
Speaking of John Hughes, here's an unusual tribute: Burlesque maven Ms. Bea Haven's beginner's burlesque class at The Galaxie this Saturday will dance to an all-John Hughes movie soundtrack. (Not sure if she'll teach Ally Sheedy's Breakfast Club dance moves.)
An Amazing John Hughes Story
A young girl writes a fan letter to director John Hughes in 1985, which turns into one of the coolest, most touching pen pal friendships ever.
Triple H Weekend
No, not that Triple H. It's going to be especially intense weather-wise this weekend, (hazy, hot and humid), so take care of yourself!
Turning Clout into Clods of Dirt
School Board President and Chicago 2016 bid committee member Michael Scott (no, not also from "The Office") has been arranging to develop property near planned Olympic sites; here's a map. His development team also includes several politically connected West Side ministers. As the Beachwood Reporter says, "Michael Scott, you are today's winner of our new So Chicago Award."
Show Photos
If you're headed to Lollapalooza (or any other Chicago music event), don't forget you can submit photos to our Transmission Flickr Pool. We might use them on the site!
Phillips is "At the Movies"
If you read our own Steve at the Movies today, you'd know Tribune film critic Michael Phillips and the New York Times' AO Scott are replacing the two Bens on the post-Ebert "At the Movies" show.
The Final Preview
In Transmission, we round out our pre-festival thoughts on what's the best way to spend your three days at Lollapalooza this year.
One Door Closes...
Chris Brunn talks with Vella Cafe's Sara Voden about the upcoming closure of the Bucktown eatery, the inspiration for her cooking, and plans for the future in this week's Drive-Thru feature.
McDeep Tunnel
A firm has been selected as design engineer to connect McCook Reservoir to Deep Tunnel in order to "reduce flood risk, protect the vital Lake Michigan water supply and improve the quality of water in area watercourses." If you are intrigued by giant holes in the ground, here is some additional information about our future tunnel and reservoir plans.
DIY John Hughes Tour
Should you feel the need to make a pilgrimage to John Hughes' favorite fictitious Chicago suburb, Shermer, here's a great resource page for shooting locations. And here's a handy schedule of upcoming broadcasts of Hughes' movies (well, some of them).
R.I.P. John Hughes
Director, writer, and producer John Hughes has died of a heart attack. A graduate of Glenbrook North High School in Northbrook, he wrote, directed or produced a number of films set in fictional Chicago suburbs, including National Lampoon's Vacation, Sixteen Candles and Home Alone.
Giannoulias's Campaign Is Going Well
Ben Smith reports that things are looking good for Illinois Treasurer Alexi Giannoulias's primary campaign for Roland Burris's not-vacant-soon-enough Senate seat. A recent poll found Giannoulias ahead with 45% followed by Chris Kennedy at 17% and Urban League President Cheryle Jackson at 13%.
More to (Lolla) Love
In case you hadn't noticed, our Slowdown section is bursting at the seams with music-related events this weekend. That's because of all the Lolla-sanctioned after-parties starring artists who'll be double dipping in Chicago. If you're not headed to Grant Park, you can hit a venue near home.
Fantasy Footballing
Thinking about playing fantasy football this year? Check out Pyromaniacs, a new league by Chicago design firm Diet Strychnine. The player depictions and profile attitude might sway you from the standard ESPN leagues.
City Colleges Producing More than Students
The Chi-Town Daily News reports that the City Colleges' television station, WYCC, produced "free videos of powerful politicians and friends of the chancellor" and allegedly fired the station manager when she complained.
A City of Superlatives
A travelogue from 1948: Chicago The Beautiful -- and another examining our nightlife. [via]
Service Announcement
Apparently the internet as a whole is going to suck today. DDOS attacks are all over, affecting Twitter and other websites -- including ours, thanks to another site that shares our server. Bear with us. :)
"The Heaviest Stone to Carry"
Beautiful street art in River North.
Still Clashin'
We're going full steam ahead with our Lollapalooza previews in Transmission — hitting you with picks for Sunday afternoon stage clash winners.
Meet the New Chicago Tribune
The Trib just redesigned its website, but the "feedback" tab on the right side of the page seems to be treating it as a work in progress.
Argggg... Pirates in Lake Michigan
As part of an anti-terrorism training exercise, the FBI and Chicago police will commandeer the cruise ship Odyssey in Lake Michigan by Navy Pier at 6 am Thursday.
A New Song for Lincoln Park
The Schuba brothers are nearly ready to open a new mid-sized music venue named Lincoln Hall near the old Biograph Theater.
Bubbling Up
Stuck with a lemon of a condo? Underwater with your mortgage? You might want to keep an eye on Chicago Housing Bubble, a blog that feels your pain.
Northside Pride
Oh, the trials and tribulations of the Wrigleyville-resident Cubs fan. If only there were a new site dedicated to their plight.
Bikers Beware
As if there weren't enough hazards for urban bikers, Whet Moser at the Reader warns against "thing-throwing jackasses," and legislation in Colorado that could benefit us in the Windy City.
Back to School Sex?
Write a song called "Birthday Sex" and you could be tapped to encourage Chicago kids to go back to school! That's what happened when the CPS folks chose Morgan Park High School graduate Jeremih Felton to use his Twitter feed to tell his 60,000 followers to go back to school Sept. 8.
Meet the Real Don Draper (Not Dick Whitman)
One of the inspirations for the Don Draper character in the AMC show Mad Men was Draper Daniels, who was the creative director at Leo Burnett in the 1960s. His wife talked to Chicago Mag about her life with him.
No No Sleep Till Brooklyn
We continue on in Transmission with our previews of the best sets at Lollapalooza with a look at Saturday night's performances (i.e. the night that was supposed to end with three MCs and one DJ).
The Seashell?
A sculpture by Zaha Hadid has opened in Millennium Park opened yesterday, in honor of the Burnham centennial.
What's Spanish for Innuendo?
You'd think someone would notice the unfortunate juxtaposition of two ads and make a change -- not replace one innuendo with another.
Everything Is Terrible! Live!
Everything Is Terrible, the video Website that digs up all sorts of crazy mind-blowing footage, is doing a screening next Monday in Chicago. Yes, they will have copies of their new DVD on hand for purchase. Details in Slowdown.
One Way to Make Money in Roseland
"It's a blighted area, underutilized with vacant buildings." So clearly the answer is for the city to sell five acres to a developer for $1 so he can build new buildings.
Too Many Banks Makes Chicago a Dull Boy
As a stroll down any major street will tell you, Chicago is "heavily overbanked." Fortunately, that probably means we won't be getting many more banks anytime soon. Oh, and there's a bonus unrelated article at the end of the piece too.
Performing Pooches
The Dog Saving Network is putting a unique spin on dog show performances here in Chicago, with a reality TV show in the works. Details in A/C.
Albini, Natarus, Bon Iver, Oh My
We're not the only ones trying to help you determine who to see at Lollapalooza: WBEZ has your back, too, with advice from an unexpected crew.
Obey The Dominotrix
North Shore blogger Poppy Buxom bought every issue of Domino magazine after the title folded earlier this year. Maybe if she'd done it earlier Domino might still be in business? Anyway, she's reading every issue - from Spring/Summer 2005 to March 2009 - and blogging about it over at The Dominotrix.
I Left My ♥ in Chicago
These Chicago-centric designs by Vic Sanchez are pretty sweet. [via]
An Urban Clear-Cut
The fate of the buildings on the Michael Reese Hospital campus might still be in the air in advance of the 2016 Olympic bid (emphasis on might), but the landscaping has already been razed.
Help Find Buster
A cool-looking car leads to a much more affecting story.
This One Goes to 11 155
New Chicago-based microblogging service Wooxie allows 155 characters instead of 140, and offers a photo gallery. We're testing it out.
25% of the City Won't Read This
A quarter of Chicago doesn't use the Internet, a new study finds. The number is more like 39 percent in the Spanish-speaking community. [via]
A Weekend Day Trip Option
The Fox River Trail in Batavia is a good destination for a day trip; be sure to check out the Fabyan Villa.
Lots of Water
Wonder what the view is like from the last available 81st-floor penthouse in the Aqua tower? YoChicago has your answer.
More Stage Clashin'
In Transmission we continue on today with our previews of sets to hit and sets to miss at this weekend's Lollapalooza festival in Grant Park.
Hackers Get Free Parking
Apparently the "smart" electronic parking meters used in Chicago and other cities are fairly easy to exploit by hackers. [via]
The Superglue Revenge Plot
Doesn't it always seem like the craziest stories are the ones from Wisconsin?
Suburban Movie Mecca
The Trib gained access to the top secret Netflix sorting facility in Carol Stream and now casts some light on the behind-the-scenes sorting operation.
Impersonating CTA Official = Bad
In another strange arrest, the FBI arrested a 20-year-old for making approximately 300 "unauthorized transmissions" over CTA radio waves. He was identified by his voice when he and his brother asked if they could collect a reward for returning a stolen CTA radio. In related news, the FBI apparently needs to hire a copy editor. Perhaps you could edit their release as an introduction.
That Lady has Big Pants
An 86-year-old woman was caught stealing "anti-wrinkle cream ... other cosmetic items, nearly a dozen packs of AA batteries, four packs of Taster's Choice coffee and several packs of salmon" by stuffing them in her pants. Other interesting facts: she's been arrested more than 60 times and has at least 20 aliases.
Mark, Please Stop Talking
Via Josh Marshall, Mark Kirk isn't scoring any points on the health debate.
Money in the Pot
A modest proposal from Mick Dumke to fix the City's budget deficit: legalize marijuana -- and tax it.
Westboro Baptist Protests Edgewater Synagogue
The Westboro Baptist folks protested at Emanuel Congregation in Edgewater this morning; the Edgewater Community Religious Association held a counter-demonstration. Leah Jones took photos. UPDATE: Some video here.
Stage Clash!
In Transmission, we're bringing you a week of previews on the best of what to expect at Lollapalooza this weekend, so keep an eagle eye on the page this week as we bring a new round of band vs. band set battles to you daily. You can check out Round 1 now.
Google Text Ads in the Real World
Anybody spot these billboards along the expressway this morning?
100 Words Hungry
Win tickets to Taste of the Nation Chicago from Grub Street by writing about your favorite childhood food.
Chicago Thrift Store Tours, Part 1: Driving
Economic woes? Hipster aspirations? Check out part one of this Chicago thrift store guide.
Another Day, Another Drink Special
Chicago, meet Small Tabs, the latest site dedicated to helping you bar hop on the cheap.
Bike Love
Riders in Friday's Critical Mass witnessed a very public marriage proposal ... and subsequent acceptance!
Paper Pols
Illustrator and musician Joe Fournier has created some fantastic paper constructions of Obama, Daley and Blagojevich for the Tribune.
