The House Jordan Built is Still Packed
The Chicago Bulls led the NBA in attendance for the past decade, yes, the decade after Michael Jordan left the team! The team averaged 20,891 fans per game. For more about the Bulls, check out Tailgate.
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
October 2009
"What vileness skulks in Tootsie Pop?"
FoGB Jim Coudal penned a delicious cautionary tale about the dangers of Halloween Candy for Jason Santa Maria's Candygram series.
Instant Costumes and Creepy Buttons
In a pinch for a costume or just like parties? Join Busy Beaver Buttons and Uncle Fun on Halloween for a night of novelty at the Uncle Fun HQ in Lakeview. Details at Busy Beaver Button's Facebook page or check out their blog for recent winners of their Halloween button design contest (judged by Svengoolie himself!). Details in Slowdown.
Meet The Ricketts
The new owner of the Cubs is profiled in both the Trib and Crain's today.
The Great Snowstorms of the Last Century
While we sit out the longest rain in recent memory, Kevin Guilfoile shares footage of the great snowstorms of 20th Century Chicago. Well, the first two, anyway -- 1939 and 1967; look elsewhere for 1978 and 1999.
Not Just Ghost Stories?
It's near Halloween and odd things are happening at the Lake County Corner's office.
Boozin' in Buenos Aires
A trip to Argentina is a lesson in their many drinks in this week's Drive-Thru feature.
Showdown in Chicago
In These Times wrapped up its coverage of the American Bankers Association demonstration with a slideshow from the events. If you want to see more of the speeches from Rev. Jesse Jackson and others, Progress Illinois is displaying them on its website.
A Shoe Thing
Oprah viewers can save 50% off their entire purchase at Payless ShoeSource through close of business on Friday, Oct. 30 with this coupon.
Loyola Shuts Down Student Gallery
Loyola University is having trouble prioritizing-- as usual, art is the first thing to go.
A Submarine in the Chicago River?
Lodner D. Phillips was an inventor and engineer in turn-of-the-century Chicago who specialized in submarines and diving suits. One of his subs, which claimed the life of its owner and his dog, was pulled out of the Chicago River in 1915. [via]
Chicago Outdoor Film Festival Falls to Budget Cuts
The Chicago Outdoor Film Festival, which has brought film screenings to Grant Park in the summer, is one of the events on the chopping block in the much tighter 2010 City budget. [via]
They're Creepy and They're Kooky, Mysterious and Arty
The Art Institute polled their employees about the "scariest/creepiest/spookiest" works in their collection. They selected these bits of nightmare fuel. However, I think the staff is mentally repressing Jeff Koons' Woman in Tub. It's art, so I guess it's safe for work. People might wonder about you though.
Energy for the Shark Tank
Element Bars, a local customizable energy bar company, got a big boost from a recent appearance on the reality show "Shark Tank."
A "Good-bye" to Washburne Trade School
In other demolition news, the water tower at the Washburne Trade School has been demolished.
Front Line for the Singularity
When the machines rise against us, the folks at Chibots, the Chicago robot club, will be ready.
Guerilla Thriller
DanceNOWChicago's dance #2 takes place at 7:30 tonight in Hamlin Park. Dancers, get the late Michael Jackson's "Thriller" on your iPod (or favorite portable music device with headphones) and be sure to wear your finest zombie finest. More details here.
Living Organically in the Concrete Jungle
Organic in Chicago is a site devoted to organic eating and living in the city.
Is Kanye West Dead?
A weird rumor swept Twitter over the weekend, claiming that Kanye West was dead. It's been denied, of course, but the story has interesting parallels with a rumor 40 years ago about another popular musician...
Bye-Bye Kiddieland. Hello Costco?
That's right: The former Kiddieland site may be the Chicago area's 13th Costco.
Taking a Joke Literally ... in Court
In Will County, you can get out of community service for $50 worth of jerk chicken.
Redeemable Spare Change
Stopping to give money to someone on the street could make anyone a bit nervous, but as the temperature drops, Chicago's homeless community becomes more apparent. So, Chicago Shares offers a solution: Vouchers to hand out in $1 increments, redeemable for food at area merchants.
Apple, North and Clybourn
Apple has forked over $4 million to expedite renovations to the North and Clybourn Red Line stop, below a Lincoln Park shopping center and below the future home of Chicago's second Apple Store. This apparently could earn Apple the naming rights and ad space to that station.
A New Way to Find Art
The folks who brought you Art Talk Chicago have created a website dedicated to comprehensively mapping out and showcasing gallery events around the city. There's even a handy little interactive map.
Sagal's Halloween Spirit
Wait, Wait... Don't Tell Me host Peter Sagal is sure to spook the neighbors (or give them a good laugh) with his "traditional" Halloween display.
Where They Know Your Name
Which Chicago bars would the characters from "Cheers" hang out at? AV Club Chicago has your answers.
Funding Final Stretch for Designing Obama Book
Just a week left to help Scott Thomas of The Post Family fund production of Designing Obama, a book about the iconography and design of the Obama campaign. Pitch in here.
First Michael Reese Building Demolished
The Friend Convalescent Home on the former Michael Reese campus is now the first Walter Gropius building to be demolished in decades.
Yes Men are Coming
International activist pranksters The Yes Men will be at the Co-Prosperity Sphere Thursday night at 7:30pm to plan an action that'll take place after their new film, The Yes Men Fix The World, debuts Friday night at the Music Box.
Cures Come From Chicago
The Trib reports that Chicago is a unique hot spot for diabetes research, due to a diverse population and a high concentration of people living with the disease.
Redmoon, White House
The Obamas will have some interesting local flavor performing at their Pennsylvania Avenue digs this Saturday.
61st Street Garden Coverage Expanding
The imminent closure of the 61st Street Community Garden is getting a lot of attention from the media, with the Trib and Sun-Times augmenting weeks of coverage in the Hyde Park Herald and the Invisible Institute's Garden Conversations.
The City in Celluloid
There weren't a lot of movies shot in Chicago during the first Daley's reign, but those that were captured a city a bit grittier than today.
Building History
If last week's historical Chicago photos whet your appetite for others, here's a great shot of the Hancock Building under construction from a compilation set of relatively historical photographs.
Get Your Halloween Costume from The Joffrey Ballet
We have Joffrey Ballet's first-ever costume sale on the calendar for tomorrow, because that's when it's free, but for $20 you can get a preview and first pick tonight from 5:30 to 8:30pm.
Fill Your Headphones with the Best
The Third Coast International Audio Festival announced its 2009 award winners over the weekend -- great stuff to track down and listen to.
Violence on Their Minds
ChicagoTalks wonders if Lincoln Parkers are feeling safer a couple months removed from the spate of muggings this summer. Meanwhile, it also notes that anti-violence groups are short on funding.
From the Ashes of Chi-Town Daily Comes Chicago Current
Geoff Dougherty, founder of the recently departed Chi-Town Daily News, announced his new venture this morning on "Eight Forty-Eight": Chicago Current, a new for-profit public affairs website and monthly print magazine. It debuts Nov. 9.
Changing Hands
Two venerable Chicago institutions officially have new owners: the Sun-Times and the Cubs.
Your Halloween Horror Hookup
Looking for some seasonally appropriate YouTube clips for your lunch break? Check out the Facets blog for the culmination of its annual 31 Days of Horror series, and visit Hey! Look Behind You for a mix of modern and vintage horror and gore. [via]
LX365
Will the Trib be able to woo luxury advertisers? It hopes LX365 will make it happen.
On the Spot College Admissions & Scholarship Cash
Thanks to the Chicago Scholars program, over 250 Chicago high school students will meet with reps from over 50 colleges and universities at UIC today. Admissions decisions and a million dollars in scholarships will be handed out on the spot! Check the eligibility guidelines to get some high-schoolers involved in time for next year.
Silver Chalice Ventures
The Chicago White Sox recently launched a new multimedia venture whose earnings will go to the team. The venture sets out to create "interactive digital" strategies for sports teams. Thus far SCV has made a digital network for the Bulls set to debut Thursday called "BullsTV."
If I Had a Million Dollars...
Actually, each alderman does, in his or her "menu money" fund for infrastructure improvements. Ald. Joe Moore is letting his constituents decide how to spend it next year.
Billy Corgan's Gothageddon
If you haven't seen it yet, you should really check out Billy Corgan's latest project: Gothageddon, a puppet show.
Lots and Lots of Tickets
Parking tickets are up 26 percent this year thanks to the new meter boxes -- and possibly to someone other than the CPD being in charge of ticket-writing.
Funds for Food
Chicago-based crowd coupon site Groupon has started a fundraiser for the Greater Chicago Food Depository. A few clicks and a few bucks could bring someone in need a Thanksgiving meal.
Embossing the Future of Design
Bevel-Emboss is a brand new monthly networking event for print and web designers in Chicago. The first is at Bottom Lounge on Nov. 5; sign up and show up with some business cards.
Innocence Project Under Scrutiny
Research from student reporters in Northwestern's Medill Innocence Project has overturned convictions and reopened cases. Now they're being challenged by the Cook County State's Attorney with a subpoena. The Daily Northwestern has more information.
Executive (Library) Branch
While the White House may think it's too early to start thinking about where President Obama's library will be built, the University of Chicago doesn't seem to. [via]
Saving ShoreBank
Despite ShoreBank's international leadership role in community-oriented banking, it is facing serious problems.
Selling the City
Noting the way the wind is blowing, the Sun-Times compiled a short list of salable public assets.
Altgeld Parents Organize to Boycott Fenger
The Committee for Safe Passage to Schools is trying to organize a boycott of Fenger High School for students from Altgeld Gardens next week, after yet more fighting at the school yesterday.
Our History in Print
HelloChicago hosts scans of several historic books about Chicago. You have to download them as PDFs, but it's still pretty cool.
Jewel No Longer "Urban Fresh"
Jewel's Urban Fresh market, part of its strategy to compete in a more specialized grocery field, will close by the end of the month.
A Hotel Gone to the Dogs
Dillon is a four year old English bulldog. He is also Director of Pet Relations at the Hotel Burnham.
Sweets on Paper
A new cookbook by Sarah Levy of Sarah's Pastries and Candies gets reviewed in this week's Drive-Thru feature.
Craigslist Hookers Back in Action
Remember the lawsuit Cook County Sheriff Tom Dart filed against CraigsList for creating a prostitution marketplace via its "erotic services" listings? A federal judge dismissed it yesterday.
Casimir Pulaski's Citizenship Status
On President Obama's to do list: Sign a resolution declaring Casimir Pulaski an honorary citizen of the U.S. If he signs the resolution, which was sent to his office after being unanimously passed by the Senate yesterday, this Polish Revolutionary War hero would become the seventh foreigner who's been granted this status.
So Much for Blue Bin Recycling
Mayor Daley's environmental chops certainly aren't improving with the budget crisis. Among the many services affected by the shortfall will be the rollout of blue bin recycling and the frequency of recycling pickups for those already enrolled in the now stalled program.
Maybe Chicago Needs an "Entertainment Complex"/ Casino?
While the City Council chambers are buzzing with potential revenue sources, one solution is frequently brought up: casino gambling. Meanwhile, some alderman are hoping to make use of the formally proposed Olympic Village grounds. Here's what you said the last time this was considered.
New Developments at Michael Reese Hospital
While demolition preparation continues for nearly all of the Michael Reese campus, the city is considering keeping one Gropius building, the Singer Pavilion.
Blog Clips
The Chicago Journal profiles Mike Knezovich, the wit behind Reading with Scissors.
10 Free Days at The Nature Museum
Starting this Friday the 23rd, The Nature Museum is celebrating it's 10th anniversary with 10 free days, filled with tons of family-friendly programs. I am particularly looking forward to Bug-a-Palooza this Saturday.
Quinn In 2010 Race
Governor Pat Quinn is officially in the 2010 race for governor (since he wasn't elected to his current job he's not up for reelection).
"We Don't Die, We Just Get High"
We Are Supervision blog shows a series of old '70s and '80s Chicago gang calling cards. Crudely drawn, sometimes offensive, and frequently opaque, they're also quite compelling.
Five Books, One Chicago
As noted in Book Club, Granta continues to extol the virtues of our fine burg by asking local booksellers to list their five favorite Chicago-themed books. This week: 57th Street Books.
Rock Proper
In Transmission, we profile Chicago netlabel Rock Proper, and how they're working hard to bring you great artists -- via download only.
Michael Jackson & John Wayne Gacy Walk Into a Bar...
Find out the punchline at The Dead Celebrity Pub Crawl this Saturday; register here.
The New York Times, Chicago Edition
Next month when The New York Times launches its Chicago edition, it will be edited by some big names in the media business -- James O'Shea, James Warren and Ann Marie Lipinski to name a few.
Showdown Against the Bankers
The American Bankers Association is meeting in Chicago Oct. 25-27, and the protesters will be out in force. Multiple marches, demonstrations and rallies are planned.
Giannoulias Has Friends In Other State Places
Alexi Giannoulias may be the first senate candidate in the race for President Obama's senate seat to receive money from out-of-state donors.
Picturing Historic Chicago
Noah Vaughn points us to two historical caches of Chicago photographs from Zeus Of HollYWOoD and Joe+Jeanette Archie. If you have your own, we'd love it if you'd add images to the GB flickr pool.
Ig Nobel Laureates
Belated congratulations to Chicagoans Elena Bodnar, Raphael C. Lee, and Sandra Marijan, winners of the 2009 Ig Nobel Prize in Public Health. The team designed "a brassiere that, in an emergency, can be quickly converted into a pair of protective face masks, one for the brassiere wearer and one to be given to some needy bystander." Click here to see a complete list of 2009 winners (as well as an awesome picture of Nobel laureates including Paul Krugman wearing the bra-mask). [via]
Finding the Needle
37signals just (pre)launched Haystack, a site to help you find a web designer for your project. More background here.
Flu.gov
Get some information on H1N1 and seasonal flu resources at this growing flu.gov site. The Illinois page also has links to state resources.
Liar's Club is Spoooky
Last night's "Ghost Lab" on the Discovery Channel featured the (alcoholic?) ghosts of Liar's Club.
Kids, Get Your Game On!
Young inventors (ages 6-18) have about a week to reserve a spot in this year's Chicago Toy & Game Fair Young Inventor Challenge, which takes place during the convention on November 21. Full rules here.
Feder Joins Vocalo
Robert Feder, former Sun-Times media columnist, is joining Vocalo.org as a featured blogger.
Goodbye, AT&T
Got an iPhone but no bars? Here's how to leave AT&T behind.
Chicago Is Stressed Out
According to a survey conducted by Harris Interactive, Chicago is the nation's most stressed out city. Said survey was sponsored by Princess Cruises, who calls the survey their "Life Balance Barometer." No word yet on whether a cruise is the perfect stress reliever.
Your Government in Real Time
WindyCitizen is hosting a City Council virtual viewing party, streaming today's meeting and taking your comments.
Gigapixel Panoramas of Chicago
British photographer Will Pearson spent some time in June making gigapixel panoramas of the Chicago skyline at dusk. It should go without saying, but the detail is impressive.
The Curse of Block 37?
Guess which downtown development may be heading towards foreclosure.
Venetian Night to Go Under Water
Among other major cuts in his next budget proposal, Mayor Daley has proposed to reduce city funding for Venetian Night.
Get Your Piece of Kiddieland
How do you put a price on a memory? Rides, equipment, signage and other bits of Kiddieland will be auctioned off by Norton Auctioneers on Nov. 24. Here are some photos of auction items.
Chicago's Next Top Scarecrow
Voting for your favorite scarecrow could win you a gift certificate worth up to $250 for any business in the Clark Street Special Service Area. Visit the displayed scarecrows (a list of participating businesses is posted here) and vote before Wednesday, October 28 at 5pm to qualify.
Ticket for Zestiness
If you live in Wicker Park, pay close attention to the ticket on your car -- it might get you free hot wings.
Sullivan Center Peeks Out of the Scaffolding
Design Slinger gives us a couple close-up looks at the bit of restored Carson Pirie Scott Building, now known as Sullivan Center, recently revealed from behind the protective scaffolding.
9pm is Scarier than Midnight
Well, as far as violent crime is concerned, anyway. Red Eye analyzed police crime statistics and found that more assaults, murders and rapes occur between 9 and 10pm than any other hour in Chicago.
The Green Slime Are Here!
Grubstreet Chicago is (justifiably) wondering what the hell is going on in this advertisement for the Dana Hotel's Aja restaurant. Fans of sci-fi/horror B-movies know all too well what's coming next. Let's rock, before we blast that thing out of the sky!
Lounge Ax Mementos Wanted
The Chicago History Museum wants your souvenirs and memories of the late lamented Lounge Ax. Interesting timing, with Lincoln Hall officially opening its doors this week just down the street.
Nice, Um, CGI...
The Sears Tower is the centerpiece of this magnificent commercial rendering. Enjoy. (P.S. Call it what you will, but I'm sticking with "Sears Tower" for now.)
Tight Senate Race For Giannoulias And Kirk
Via TPMDC, a Rasmussen poll finds senate hopefuls Mark Kirk and Alexi Giannoulias tied at 41% for the senate seat. That's a much closer margin than one might expect.
Is CeaseFire Working?
CeaseFire is getting renewed attention in light of the violence at Fenger High School, but Beachwood Reporter's Steve Rhodes thinks it's a load of hooey, likening it to the failed DARE anti-drug program in the '80s and '90s. Related: a profile of CeaseFire gang mediator Tio Hardaway we ran last summer.
Sports Reporting by Robots
Stats Monkey is a project at Northwestern's Intelligent Information Laboratory that might one day make sports reporting obsolete. Of course, that'd just mean more time for sportwriters to be columnists. [via]
Burris Back in the Mix
In the quest for sixty votes on the looming health care bid, Roland Burris, our tenacious junior senator, is suddenly being paid a significant amount of attention.
A Sweet Tale of Revenge
A betrayed lover turns the tables in the latest edition of Keep Going.
How it is at Fenger High School
Salon has an essay from an anonymous 17-year-old at Fenger High School about what life is like for students from Altgeld Gardens before and after Derrion Albert's beating death earlier this month.
Looking Back at the Republic Windows Strike
In Mechanics, Sheila Burt talks with author Kari Lyderson about her new book on the takeover of the Republic Windows and Doors factory by laid off workers and its place in labor rights history.
Grant a Zookeeper's Wish
The Lincoln Park Zoo has posted a wish list, with items costing $1 to $200. It's a great way to support our local menagerie, one of the last free zoos in the United States, and at the same time know exactly where your money is going--for example, a lovely nest basket for one of the McCormick Bird House's laughing thrushes--a bargain at one dollar.
What Would You Like to See on Google Street View?
Google is accepting suggestions for off-of-the-street places for its Street View trike to document. Do you have a Chicago location to suggest? Perhaps the Lakefront Path or your favorite park?
Time to Reassess "If you build it, they will come"
There are dozens of multimillion dollar homes for sale throughout the region, and they're not selling. Two standouts are a suburban castle and a home named "Villa Taj" that will soon be auctioned.
Running the "Gantlet"
More than a few people wrote the Trib commenting on their use of "gantlet" instead of "gauntlet" in a recent headline, so they wrote another piece explaining why they chose the former.
NYT Chicago Edition Soon To Come
The New York Times launched its San Francisco "Bay Area Report" edition recently. The Times Company plans to launch a similar Chicago edition soon, although if the San Francisco venture is a flop the Chicago one probably won't happen either.
Flying Out of Chicago
On this day in 1909, the first airplane flight in Chicagoland occurred at Hawthorne Park racetrack in Cicero. Chicago Public Radio has the full story.
The Art of Dinner
Food becomes more visual through the Bluebird's new dining and art series. We take a deeper look in this week's Drive-Thru feature.
What's Going on with Market Hall?
The FBI wants to know what happened to the $1.1 million Illinois FIRST grant given to the Historic Pullman Foundation for the still unrestored Market Hall.
Blago's Real Legacy?
Call it The Blago/Ryan Rule. After having two consecutive governors involved in scandal, voters will get the chance to vote on a gubernatorial recall amendment on the November 2010 ballot. Meanwhile, former Gov. Blagojevich's hole gets a little deeper...and he's getting mud on a few others in the process.
Still Protesting in Naperville
Scott Huber's home, his "protest site," continues to make news in Naperville.
Garage Turned Pawn Shop Art Installation
Two local artists have turned a three-car garage into a mock pawn shop in which much of the stock is art. Kelly Reaves has more in this week's A/C feature.
Olmert Unsurprisingly Causing Quite a Stir
Former Israeli Prime Minister Ehud Olmert is currently speaking at the University of Chicago. His invitation has been controversial on campus, and a variety of groups have assembled to protest the event. Two counter-protesters are also present.
Deep Below the Loop, Trains Once Ran
While we're digging into the archives, Granta's story on the semi-forgotten tunnels that led to the "Great Loop Flood of 1992" gives us the opportunity to link again to this site about the Chicago Tunnel Railroad Company.
Hey DJ
It's official: playing ringtones in public doesn't infringe copyright. Looks like it might be time for Chicago's DJs to learn how to beatmatch that noise.
NewCity's Best of Chicago Voting Open
Ready with your votes? You have until Nov. 3 to participate.
Order from Amazon, Get it Same Day
Do you really need that thing you just ordered on Amazon today? For an extra fee, Amazon now offers same-day Express Shipping.
More Trouble for the Chicago Spire
Well, the Spire isn't done for yet, but its developer is in the news again. This time, its sales center is facing eviction.
A Boy Genius Grows Up
An update on a story we covered in the very early days of GB: Sho Yano became the youngest-ever person to earn a doctorate from the University of Chicago when he received his PhD in molecular biology last month -- at age 18.
Tell Us What to Read
The GB Book Club is putting together its 2010 reading list and wants your help.
We Screen in Public
We Live in Public, a new documentary about early dot-com mogul Josh Harris, opens at the Music Box tomorrow -- but there's a special preview screening tonight at 7pm at i^3 hypermedia, 11 E. Illinois, 4th floor. It's $5 advance/$7 at the door and BYOB. (Thanks, Jim!)
Rules of the Restaurant
Please watch "Mike G's Rules for Better Dining", a video from Michael Gebert of Sky Full of Bacon inspired by Michael Pollan's dietary rules recently featured in the New York Times.
The Twitter of an Extraordinary Gentleman
"Chicago femme fatale, known to police as 'The Nemesis Sweetheart,' claims sixth victim in underworld--one husband, five lovers." Librarian/researcher/author Jess Nevins finds and posts amazing historical headlines like that to his Twitter page under the "on this day in 1929" #otd1929 tag.
Googlemapping the CHA's Plan for Transformation
GB's managing editor David Schalliol was frustrated that he couldn't find all of the CHA's mixed income housing developments on the agency's own map -- so he built one himself.
An Interview with Cheer-Accident
This week's Transmission feature is an interview with Alex Perkolup, bassist in the critically acclaimed progressive rock band Cheer-Accident. The band performs at Reggie's Friday night.
Here's Some Good News: Lower Crime
That's right: crime is down nearly 10% compared to the same time last year -- even youth homicides dropped by 19%.
Clinton to Address Chicago House Fundraiser
A new fundraiser speaker series by HIV/AIDS service provider, Chicago House will have former President Bill Clinton as the keynote speaker to discuss homelessness and HIV/AIDS. The luncheon will take place on Nov. 11 at noon at the Palmer House Hilton.
Caramel Corn Returns to Michigan Avenue
Garrett's Popcorn is celebrating the reopening of its Mag Mile store, 625 N. Michigan Ave., tomorrow starting at 10am. They're giving away free bags of popcorn, so expect a long line -- just like old times.
Getting Schooled on Bad Credit
Chicago Treasurer Stephanie D. Neely and a panel of experts are targeting the Chicago college community tonight at the University Center in the South Loop [PDF] to advise students on overwhelming credit card debts and a lack of budgeting skills. Register here. Oh, and bring credit card offers to shred to win a shredder, because what college student doesn't need one of those?
Shawnimals' Stache Stash Released
Shawnimals just released a blind bag series of Moustachio "pocket stache" plush dolls, including a pirate mustache! Perfect for Halloween disguises.
Kennedy "Pavement Failure"
IDOT is recommending that all drivers avoid downtown expressways for at least 24 hours because of a "pavement failure" that's closed all but one northbound lane on the Kennedy.
One Zombie Dog, Extra Brains
Logan Square favorite Lula Cafe plans to "dress up" as another local gem this Halloween: Hot Doug's. I wonder if the menu of encased meats will be named after the dead, the undead or simply those whose careers have flatlined. (via)
HOB Security: Photography is Not a Crime
An off-duty House of Blues security guard was caught on tape after last Monday night's Hanson show taking the camera from a woman and then repeatedly hitting her because he thought she took a picture of him. More discussion here. [via @GBtips] UPDATE: NBC5 reports the security guard was arrested for misdemeanor battery.
Discovering Vivian Maier
Vivian Maier was a street photographer who documented Chicago from the 1950s through the '70s. She died in April, and her archive of work was purchased at auction by photographer and historian John Maloof, who is posting selections on vivianmeier.com.
Michelle Obama's Plastic Arms
Jailbreak Toys has now immortalized Michelle as well as Barack as action figures.
Hot Dogs Get Hard Time
Felony Franks gets the Wall Street Journal's attention for its battle against neighbors and Ald. Fioretti.
Another Way to Measure Polluted Waters
The NYTimes recently compiled national data for holders of pollutant discharge permits and mapped them; along the way, it assembled this useful map of Chicago permit holders and violators and some other helpful information. The city fared fairly well with only six violators -- none of which paid fines for their violations -- although the surrounding area didn't do nearly as well.
The City's Ugliest Building?
Travel+Leisure named the Harold Washington Library one of the world's ugliest buildings.
Turning A New (Digital) Leaf
The A.V. Club Chicago just went through a redesign, and thinks there are a few other Chicago sites that could use a freshening up.
Splatter Theater
Centerstage runs down some theater alternatives to horror movies to get you into the Halloween mood.
Threadless Founder Goes Culinary
Crain's has an interview with skinnyCorp co-founder Jacob DeHart who's launching a new startup business website later this month: CulinaryCulture.com.
A Baby Named Ike
ABC7 anchor Judy Hsu delivered her fourth baby in the front seat of a car on I-55 I-290 early this morning. And yes, she's naming it Ike. (Yeesh, you'd think we'd know which route the Ike was.)
Poop in a Bucket for the Environment
Nance Klehm of Spontaneous Vegetation gets attention in GOOD magazine for her Humble Pile Chicago project.
Spice Up Your Life
We visit a local gourmet spice company in this week's Drive-Thru feature.
Don't Let That Giant Lake to the East Fool You
New estimates indicate that Aurora and Joliet could bump into a water shortage as early as 2015.
Three Sheets to the Windy City
Chicago is yours for the drinking, thanks to Cityscape Bar's new Architectural Martini Tour, an alcoholic ode to some of the Loop's best known buildings.
Cubs Bankrupt (For a Day)
While in no actual financial discrepancy, the Tribune Co.'s Chicago Cubs have filed for Chapter 11 protection to speed up the sale to the Ricketts family, but this bankruptcy may only last a day. Interestingly enough, they're not the only Major League Baseball team to file Chapter 11.
Ooooh, Geeky Date Night Idea
"Adler After Dark," The Adler Planetarium's nightclub/stargazing event launches this Thursday, Oct. 15 and continues every third Thursday night of the month. The first night of cocktails and peeks through the Doane Observatory telescope is free, so why not?
Kirk In The Lead
According to one poll, Republican Senate hopeful and Congressman Mark Kirk has a seven-point lead over Democratic rival and the left's presumptive nominee, Illinois State Treasurer Alexi Giannoulias.
Sausage Pizza, Every Day for a Month
That was the challenge LTH Forum's Ronnie Suburban gave one of his coworkers. So far, he's holding fast -- even on business trips. [via]
Auctioning a Part of Elvis
If you'd rather rock'n'roll than swing, why not wear a clump of Elvis's hair while you're at it?
T-shirt with Everything
Woot's t-shirt today depicts hot dogs from around the country, with Chicago style getting prime placement. Makes sense, since the designer went to school here.
Another Year, Another Potential CTA Fare Hike
Train fare could rise to $3 and bus fare to $2.50 ($3 for express buses) as the CTA once again tries to close its budget gap.
Where to Swing
Looking for some swing music? WindyHop is your resource for classes and concerts, while This Week in Chicago gives you the latest on swing nights around town. (Thanks, Dubi!)
New Chicago Marathon Course Record Set
Samuel Wanjiru broke the Chicago Marathon's 1999 record by one second.
The Farney Lights
Plenty of people do over-the-top Christmas light displays. Michael Farney in Forest Park tries to bring the same excitement to Halloween. (To be fair, he does Christmas, too.)
I Miss David Hoffman Already
David Hoffman's replacement for City Hall Inspector General, Joe Ferguson, nominated by Mayor Daley sounds a bit watered down.
Zombie Strippers
Yep, you read that right. Admiral Theater is hosting Night of the Stripping Dead next Wednesday, Oct. 14. There will be zombies at every level of decay and undress, from nude to burlesque to a (sexily clothed) zombie pin-up contest. You can take advantage of makeup artists to get zombified yourself, too.
A Little Off the Top
The witty folks at the Art Institute have given their October self-guide a morbidly funny theme: decapitation (PDF file). Insert Tales from the Crypt pun about not losing your head here.
Rolling Art Gallery
Art on the Track brings an eight-car art installation to the Loop this Saturday. [via]
Running the Chicago Marathon ... for the 32nd Time
Chicago resident Larry Moon is one of only nine people who have run in every Chicago marathon, and he'll be running again on Sunday.
A New Day for the Sun-Times
The Sun-Times News Group employee unions and a judge gave approval for the paper chain to be sold to James Tyree. Here's a little more background on the Tyree.
Felt Good to be a Gangsta
Two odd belongings of two legendary Chicago gangsters are changing hands. A collection of artifacts from John Dillinger, including a letter to his father from jail and a gathering of guns, goes up for auction in December. And Al Capone's former Wisconsin hideout was snapped up by a local bank yesterday at a foreclosure auction for $2.6 million.
Gangs Are Terrorists
Michael Salmonowitz makes a case for why Chicago's gangs are like Al-Qaeda. Meanwhile, another fight broke out at Fenger High School while Arne Duncan and Eric Holder were in town to discuss youth violence.
The Smartest Kid on Earth Meets Fall-Out Boy
Chris Ware and Pete Wentz wander about an industrial area and sit on a pipe, chatting about their work. Boy, the director sure likes cross-cuts.
Talk About Your High Approval Ratings
Barack Obama just received a Nobel Peace Prize.
And Daniel Burnham Looked Upon the Ruins and Said, "Let's Rock!"
It's the 138th anniversary of the Chicago Fire, and MTV pays sentimental tribute with... Dragonforce? Indeed, the city did arise from the ashes like a huge, shredding, windmill-headbanging phoenix.
The Murder Professor
Division and Rush debuts a new serialized comic featuring "Stu Peterman," a gentleman who teaches how to commit murder and get away with it.
A Few Chicagoans are Still Rich
The economy may be in the tank, but 18 Chicago-area residents made the Forbes 400 list.
Learn to Tweet
Wondering how to best use Twitter for your business? Go to TweetCamp Chicago this Saturday, presented by the AWJ Chicago.
Favorite Spots in Chicago
FoGB Laura Park received a commission from an expat to draw "a portrait of everything she missed in Chicago." Do you recognize everything in there?
If Chicago's Youth Violence Were Elsewhere
Bernadine Dohrn, writing on the Huffington Post, reminds us that "Were this in Colombia, the Congo or Myanmar, we would recognize that children who are recruited into warring groups by much older adults to fight as child soldiers must be disarmed, demobilized, rehabilitated and reintegrated into the community."
SOLD! (Well, Almost)
A bankruptcy judge has approved the sale of the Sun-Times Media Group to the $25 million bid led by James Tyree. Of the 16 unions needed to realize the deal, 14 have approved it so far, and the bidders are optimistic about the final negotiations.
Finally Landing at O'Hare
Greg Krause arrives home in Chicago today after using JetBlue's 30-day All You Can Jet Pass to fly around the world raising money for a school in Zambia.
Chicago Winter Olympics!
Pruned suggests that Chicago immediately bid for the 2018 Winter Games. [via] While I doubt Daley'll bite, we do already have a ski jump.
Saying "Goodbye" to a Community Garden
It's official: the 61st Street Community Garden will be demolished by the University of Chicago "shortly after Halloween" so it can be the staging area for the Chicago Theological Seminary construction site. CTS is relocating in order to make room for the Milton Friedman Institute for Research in Economics.
Po Campo for Mo Fashion
Whether you're a fashionable diva who occasionally takes a Sunday bike ride for joy, or a professional dame who commutes to work, you'll find the work of Maria and Emily who co-own Po Campo tres magnifique. Beautifully stylish bags for attaching to your bike handlebars or rack and available at a dozen local shops. Designed and manufactured right here in Chicago to help you buy local.
From Slave Quarters to the White House
Michelle Obama's family tree traces back to a young slave named Melvinia in rural Georgia.
So Much for Hope
FlyGuy Design's latest poster captures Chicago's Olympic bid nicely, in the iconography of another local campaign.
Hey Fiction Writers
Want to get paid to write for The Reader's 9th annual fiction issue to be released in late December- They're seeking submissions. Got writer's block? Here's a look at the archives of past published works for motivation.
Cabbie Calamity
In the "sick and wrong" files, one in five cab drivers in Chicago have been physically attacked on the job. It's commonly accompanied by ethnic hostility, reports the University of Illinois at Chicago.
Murders by Neighborhood
The Red Eye is a mapping all the homicides in Chicago this year on a googlemap, as well as an easier-to-read map of murders by ward.
Tweebert
Roger Ebert is now on Twitter.
Light and Blues
The New York Times ran a piece about photographer Michael Abramson's photos of South Side blues clubs and their patrons back in the 70s. The photos will appear in a book/LP set, titled Light: On the South Side, published by the inestimable Numero Group label.
Wait Wait ... Don't Steal That Bike!
Wait Wait ... Don't Tell Me!'s Peter Sagal is among the most recent victims of bike theft in Chicago.
We're Number...What?!
In The Daily Beast's first ever attempt to rank the "civic IQ" of the 55 largest cities in America, Chicago comes in tied with St. Louis at a dismal #24.
Find The Great Pumpkin
Groovy in Chicago points us to the best pumpkin patches in the Chicago area, ready for your autumn and Halloween picking.
A Thing of Beavty
Have you ever seen the Art Institute's new logo and wondered "Why a v instead of a u?" Design firm Pentagram explains the whys and wherefores of Abbott Miller's lovely and precise designs for the museum's interior and exterior signage. (via)
Fighting Crime with Statistics
Here's a little background about the $30 million CPS plan to combat student violence.
Another Feather in the U of C's Cap
George E. Smith, one of the three winners of the Nobel Prize in physics received his PhD from the U of C in 1959. He is the 29th Nobel Laureate in physics to be affiliated with the university.
The Man of a Thousand...er, Bras?
Meet The Bra Man. He collects bras. No, really, bras. He has more than a thousand of them. Yeah, we know. But it's for a good cause, so...yeah.
Girls on Bikes
A couple of bike-loving gals filmed this video on stopping and starting a bicycle. Includes outtakes.
A Q&A With a Chicago Conservative on Losing the Olympics
Here's an interview with Emily Marie Zanotti who was against having the Olympics in Chicago and was the one who announced to a room full of conservates that Chicago had lost the Olympics.
The "smartest new corporate hotel in ages"
If you're looking for a downtown getaway, the new boutique hotel The Wit got a not too shabby review in the NY Times.
Mark Kirk Raised $1.6 Million In Third Quarter
Senate hopeful and 10th District Representative Mark Kirk apparently raised $1.6 million in the third quarter.
Anyone Want To Buy A Newspaper?
The Sun-Times is up for sale but nobody seems that interested.
New Feature at Windy Citizen
The Windy Citizen just got a little more democratic with the ability to vote comments up and down.
Imagining Future Transportation
The Sun-Times does some digging into contemporary views of future transportation, noting we're less likely to think about floating cars and more likely to think about high speed trains than in days past.
Getting Rich by Bankrupting the Trib
In other Tribune news, the NY Times examines the raiding of the Tribune Company.
Book Club Profiled in Tribune
The GB Book Club was featured in the Tribune this weekend as part of their series on Chicagoland book clubs. Check out the article, then check out the Book Club page for an explanation on why the five books listed made for great discussions.
Chicago in Columbus
The Columbus, Ohio Museum of Art has a stellar collection of social issue oriented art, much of which was produced by Chicago affiliated artists such as Aaron Siskind and Ivan Albright.
Outsider Art from an Insider?
The Reader's big feature this week surrounds the mysterious Clyde Angel and his true identity.
Paid to Teach?
Substance News alleges that at least 540 people on the Chicago Public Schools payroll make more than CPS chief Ron Huberman -- to the tune of nearly $1 billion.
Explore the Collection of the MoCP
Did you know that the entire collection of the Museum of Contemporary Photography is online? You can browse and search more than 8,500 photographs and even save items from the collection to view later.
Cutest Day in Church?
Yesterday was animal blessing day at Grace Episcopal Church.
In Mint Condition
A new and locally run online magazine has popped up this month geared towards providing gay men features on politics, health, fashion, art and culture. Mint Male's first issue can be read online, while a launch party is being thrown tonight at SkyBar to celebrate volume one, issue one.
Trib: Rebuild Our City While Preserving Gropius
Now that there is no need to build an Olympic Village, the Trib is calling for a broad set of community investments, including the preservation of "Reese's landmark Walter Gropius buildings."
Maybe It's a Good Thing
Even the Wall Street Journal wonders if we dodged a bullet not winning the 2016 Olympics.
Back To Reality
Hopefully, that Olympic rejection hangover is fading and now we can get back to regular city business ... like 10 alderman subpoenaed in a case involving an indicted developer linked to Ald. Isaac Carothers.
Scare Yourself Awake
Facets Cinematheque continues Facets Night School, its midnight screenings of great cult films. For October they're screening great horror films every Friday and Saturday night. You still have time to hit tonight's kick-off screening, the 1932 version of The Mummy. See the Facets Website for a complete list of screenings.
A Unique Museum
Chicago's Cambodian American Heritage Museum and Killing Fields Memorial is the only Cambodian museum in America.
Digging into .Gov
Stump Connolly of The Week Behind profiles the various ways people are data-mining the government.
Splash!
Splash!, a free enrichment program for Chicago area high school students, is happening tomorrow. The classes look really cool, so if you know any high school students looking for something different to do, they can register now.
Not a First Choice for a Headline
I'm not sure the Trib is really selling this article: "Citi isn't planning to beef up Chicago presence." Um, OK.
Paint Chips are a Girl's Best Friend
Chicago resident Nite Kongtahworn created a mosaic of Marilyn Monroe with paint chips in his Lakeview condo. He was inspired by this Apartment Therapy post on pixelated painting.
A Map of Words and Images
Chicago Art Map is a new site covering the city's art scene.
The Illinois Senate Plot Thickens
I totally missed this but, via Greg Sargent, it turns out that U.S. Senate hopeful Mark Kirk has a challenger from the right in "little-known Patrick Hughes for the Republican Senate nomination in Illinois."
Tru Dat
We head to a fancy schmancy wine dinner in this week's Drive-Thru feature.
Month of Horrors 3-D
Facets Multimedia begins the month with their third annual 31 days of horror, where they post one horror film clip a day on their blog. Check out the entries from 2008 and 2007; some of the clips from previous years are still up on YouTube!
Olympic Free Zone
Gapers Block will be an Olympic news-free zone today. We figure you won't be able to avoid the coverage, so why not give it a rest? The two exceptions: Keep your eye out for a thumbs up or thumbs down (that's it) here in Merge, and share your own thoughts in Fuel.
Untitled (Pink Tube) in a Grid
GB flickr pool contributor Ian Only-Connect is at it again, this time with a lovely full-page composition exploring Dutes Miller and Stan Shellabarger's "Untitled (Pink tube)" at the Cultural Center.
Somehow This Seems Entirely Plausible
Here's a 1987 Chicago Tribune spot featuring the great Mike Royko at the Billy Goat Tavern. The sound seems a touch off at the beginning--Royko sounds a little like Barry White.
Ready to Riot
Riot Fest hits Chicago for the fifth year next week. We've got a preview for you in Transmission.
Tricky Olympic Electricity
Near the Loop tonight? Check out the Aon Center's nifty lights as it finishes its 16-day countdown to the Olympic announcement. Evidently, "1" is harder than it looks.
You Need a Treat Today
And if you're near Michigan Avenue, you can get some free candy from Mars today till 6pm.
I Elucidate, Therefore I Am
Listen to Elucidations, a podcast started by two graduate students in philosophy at the U of C. They talk to professors about their work, "covering a range of topics from the theoretical to the practical, including perception, moral motivation, and sexual orientation."
A New Mode of Data Storage
Microsoft's suburban data center is experimenting with shipping containers as modular units to be added or subtracted with computing demands.
Rolling Meadows
Artist Joe Baldwin is trying to implement his idea for a CTA "mobile garden," a subway flatcar covered with native plants that rides the rails. So far the CTA hasn't said no, but he needs help raising funds and such. Get in touch with him at the site or through the Facebook page.
10 Years of Transformation
It's been 10 years since the CHA began its Plan for Transformation. WBEZ's Natalie Moore takes a look at the process, its successes and criticisms -- and our own David Schalliol contributed a slideshow of photos from public housing projects around the city.
Meet the "Mancession"
U of C economics professor Casey B. Mulligan wants to know what's causing this current "Mancession."
