The Good, The Bad & The Nutcracker 3D
Our own Steve Prokopy offers his list of the best and worst films of 2010.
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
Merge
Monthly Archive
December 2010
A Penny Saved Comes in Handy Tonight
CTA starts its annual penny rides starting at 8pm tonight through 6am tomorrow.
Causing Trouble
The Red Eye wants to re-write the "Super Bowl Shuffle" for this year's Bears, in case they make it all the way. Feels like a jinx to me.
R2D2 is a Fine Actor
BoingBoing dug up vintage Bill Murray, filming an anti-high tech rant in 1982.
Rubbish Goes There
Chicago Photobloggers did a two part interview with photographer Noah Vaughn.
Vote for Helen Lishman
Speaking of the blizzard of '79 and mayoral races, here's a spoof campaign commercial promising to get rid of the "snow jobs in City Hall."
Blizzard Politics
Mayor Jane Byrne was interviewed on NPR yesterday, sharing lessons learned from the blizzard of '79 that New York's Mayor Bloomberg may want to pay attention to.
Paint Thinner isn't for BBQ
On Reddit, a neighbor adds details (some very sad) to the suspicious fire at Ole Hardwood yesterday.
New Year's Eve Mass
Oh yes, Critical Mass is rolling tonight, leaving Daley Plaza at 6pm. Keep your eye on MassUp.Us for details.
B-Fest 2011: The Countdown Begins
Tickets go on sale tomorrow morning for B-Fest 2011, the 24-hour B-movie festival at Northwestern that's popular with many GB staffers. Ticket sales will be exclusively online for a while, so check the B-Fest ticket info page for more information and a link to the online box office.
Walking the Plank
As Brown Line riders already know, its $530 million renovation has had some significant problems, among them the wooden planks that started deteriorating as early as August 2008.
A Picture's Worth
The Reader's annual 1,000 Words issue is out.
Um, Gang Members Carpool?
Somehow, being number one in the country in gang membership is a positive energy policy for Illinois. [via]
Origin Point, 1897
Thomas Edison filmed the intersection of State and Madison in 1897, showing it was bustling even back then.
Track That Train
The CTA will finally launch a train tracker site, similar to its popular Bus Tracker, in January.
Taxi Fuel Surcharge Could Kick in Next Week
Get ready to pay extra to cab it in 2011. If the price of gas prices average $3.20 or more for seven consecutive days, Chicago cabs can add a $1 fuel surcharge onto fares. Gas went above $3.20 on Dec. 22 and has stayed above that mark ever since, so that surcharge could kick in on Monday at midnight.
Why Monday? Well, the 24th and 31st are considered holidays, so they don't count for the seven business days. Which means that, assuming gas prices don't drop below $3.20 before Monday, the surcharge will trigger at 12:01am Tuesday, Jan. 4. According to the AAA Fuel Gauge Report, which the City uses as the official record for the surcharge, the average as of today is $3.304; ChicagoGasPrices.com puts it at $3.324 and stable.
A spokeperson said the City was "98 percent sure" the surcharge would go into effect, and was preparing for it. Cabs are already tacking on a 50-cent surcharge because the price of gas is above $2.70; this lower-tier surcharge has been in effect since Oct. 29, 2009. The new surcharge adds an additional 50 cents, and will remain until gas prices dip under $3.20 again for seven consecutive business days.
Dmitry Samarov, an artist and writer who documents his experiences driving a cab, doesn't like the surcharge. "There are several problems here: when drivers add extras to the meter, many riders get suspicious and our tips suffer, [and] the surcharge is unfair to riders going short distances, as they're charged the same as longer fares." He said most drivers would like to see a fare increase enacted, "but the recession gave the city cover to kill that." In November aldermen Ed Burke and Carrie Austin proposed a $1 surcharge to help correct city budget shortfall. But none of that fee would go to taxi drivers, ignoring months of lobbying by drivers for a 22 percent fare increase.
Not Drunkest ...Yet
We'll probably prove them wrong tomorrow, but Chicago is only #29 on Daily Beast's list of America's 40 drunkest cities. Then again, #1 is no surprise. (Thanks, Dee!)
With Sprinkles
Just in time for New Year's Eve, here's a recipe for the Rum Emanuel. (There's another recipe from some bar in New York, but it doesn't look as good.)
Midwest Quake This Morning
If you're particularly sensitive, you may have noticed a slight rumble just before 7am this morning as a 4.2 magnitude earthquake in central Indiana made its presence felt.
Quora on Chicago
Quora is a new social community based around questions and answers. It launched back in June, and now has a respectable number of Chicago-related questions built up.
Roger Ebert Presents...
Chicagoist speculates that Roger Ebert will reveal the new co-host for his forthcoming TV show this Sunday. Meanwhile, he's posted his picks for the best films of 2010.
For Multiple Reasons
At Pratt Beach in Rogers Park, Sarah-Ji found some really good advice for this time of year.
A Free Music Resource
The Free Music Archive has plenty of stuff for you to download, including some from Bloodshot Records and the Third Coast International Audio Festival
North Inland Midland
That's what Chicago's dialect is, I think, according to this dazzlingly complicated map.
Today's Shows
Some anonymous, dedicated soul updates Chicago Music List every day, seemingly by hand, to give you a simple overview of your live music options for the day.
Chicago on Gawker's 2010 Lists
The Tribune Co.'s top management shenanigans landed it in at #5 on Gawker's "Year's Best Media Scandals" list, while Feedburner founder Dick Costolo's new gig as CEO of Twitter made him a tech winner.
Old City Documents
The National Archives have a search engine that lets you dig into its holdings. Quite a few from Chicago, going back to some of the city's earliest days.
A Great Sounding New Year's Eve
If you're still on the fence for how to spend your evening this coming Friday, consult our NYE show round-up in Transmission for some great concerts. Yes, a lot of the big venues are sold out, but plenty of shows around town still have tickets available.
Groupon the J-School
And speaking of Groupon, did you know it's started its own journalism school of sorts? [via]
Chicago's Got Your Coupon
Speaking of deal sites, Groupon isn't the only big name in town: CouponCabin is the second largest in the country.
One-Stop Deal Shopping
It's about time: Chicago Deal Sites collects all the daily deals for Chicagoland (well, a lot of them anyway) in one spot for convenient perusal.
Ah Yes, I Believe It Happened on a Tuesday
Today, comicallyvintage.com shares an awesome comic panel recalling when fear ruled Chicago (true story!).
How Much Money Would You Like?
After turning down Google's purchase offer, Groupon is now looking for $950 million in equity financing.
Sears Alphalines Video
Sears is getting into the streaming video business with Alphaline Entertainment, which is apparently named after sister store Kmart's house brand electronics cables.
What We Ate
The Drive-Thru staff shares their favorite food experiences from 2010 in the first annual Eatacular. Share yours in the comments.
"Happy Canoe Year!"
If you're looking for New Year's Day activities, you may be interested in the Forest Preserve District of Cook County's 26th annual canoe ride down the Chicago River.
Resolution.exe
If you haven't figured out a New Year's resolution yet, the Chicago Portfolio School's Resolution Generator may be able to help.
Helping New Arrivals
In A/C, Iya Bakare profiles Casa Aztlan, a 40-year-old community center and nonprofit organization in Pilsen that's helping recent immigrants find a life in Chicago.
Chicago: Obama HQ in 2012?
President Obama is considering coming back to Chicago for his 2012 election campaign.
Bacon is Killing the Merc
Thanks in part to the popularity of bacon, pork belly trading has all but ceased on the Chicago Mercantile Exchange, the Wall Street Journal reports. [Google News link] Learn more about the history of futures in a new book.
RIP Chris Blumer
Christine Ward Blumer, former Gapers Block staffer and winediva, passed away yesterday after a long battle with cancer.
It's Really Time to Say Goodbye to that Dell
So you got some new gadgets for the holidays and the ones you bought two years ago are, like, totally obsolete--a common 21st century problem. Don't trash them, though--Chicago Surplus Computer is offering computer recycling on January 8 at 3140 North Central. Computer disposal is free, and the easing of your green conscience doesn't cost a thing, either.
Ring in a Reasonable New Year
Want to do something more special than TV and beer, but can't afford New Year's Eve specials hovering around three digits? Metromix and the Reader have some ideas to get you started.
Father of the 4+1 Dies
Jerome Soltan, the architect responsible for the four-plus-one (previously), passed away recently at age 81.
The Many Hulks of Twitter
Our own Jim Allenspach has cataloged 100 of them, and there are many more.
Meter Rates to Rise
Parking meter rates are set to increase by a quarter or more on Jan. 1, cementing our position as the most expensive city to park in.
Candidate for Year's Dumbest Criminal
If you're carrying a "mobile meth lab" and several pounds of drugs in your backpack, it's probably a good idea not to pass out in the back of a cab.
Another Chicago Tech Blog
From the folks behind Chicago Art Magazine comes TINCmag, an online magazine about Chicago's technology industry.
No, Groupon isn't #1
Flyover Geeks picks their top 30 in Tech for 2010.
Share Your Strength, Eat at Alinea
Carol Blymire, author of the Alinea At Home foodblog, is doing a fundraising contest for Share Our Strength -- and the grand prize is dinner for four at Alinea. [via]
"Every one of us has erred in their personal lives"
Jesse Jackson, Jr. grants a rare interview with the Associated Press.
Traveling While Disabled
Holiday travel may have been hell this weekend, but people with disabilities faced extra challenges.
Cultural Curiosities on the Cheap
Merry Christmas from Chicago Detours and Groupon: tomorrow, their indoor walking tour of the city is just $9 (normally $20). Watch for it!
Gingerbread House of Horrors
Baked goods from Rolf's Patisserie in Lincolnwood may be contaminated with Staphylococcus aureus. 100 people in Illinois and Wisconsin have already been sickened.
Your Mac Helper
Keymote is an app that turns your iPhone/iPod Touch into a keypad for all your shortcut key commands.
Well Aren't We Chivalrous?
Third most chivalrous city in the country, according to Dockers.
"Neu Chicago"
I'm not sure what this video has to do with Chicago, but it's kind of fun.
Papa Bear T-Shirt
Designer David Schwen created a great tribute to the Bears' iconic coach Ditka.
Salvation, Low and Slow
In Drive-Thru, Alan Lake shares the story of his annual tradition of serving Christmas dinner, BBQ style, at the Salvation Army's Harbor Light Center on the near West Side.
The Internet is Leaking
I can has cheezburger (Doritos), animated.
Finnish Santa
Sick of Christmas movies? Tired of schmaltzy and ironic movies about the "true meaning of the holidays"? Don't worry, Rare Exports, which opens tomorrow, has none of that crap. Nope, just tons of sweater-wearing, gingerbread-eating Finns. And the true story of Santa. Read Steve at the Movies' review here.
Much Ado About Not Much
Although most of us probably couldn't care less, art gossip junkies out there will be tickled pink by ArtSlant's saucy new list of Chicago's 2010 art controversies.
That Howling Sound: Ohio State Fans
Avoiding Ohio State football fans is usually a good idea, but it's especially important this holiday season. They're all riled up because the NCAA suspended five Buckeyes, including quarterback Terrelle Pryor, for selling their own jerseys and other memorabilia. Yes, the same NCAA that declined to punish Heisman winner Cam Newton.
He's Staying
The city's election commissioners voted to keep Rahm Emanuel on the February mayoral race ballot.
A Well-Oiled Bloated Machine
Chicago is a big city. We have more residents than a handful of states. Big cities require big government. But I don't think I had any idea how big until I saw this list of all the departments that exist in Chicago. (Thanks, George!)
Lend it to Take Away
Golden Age is preparing to mount an exhibition of "take away" artworks, and is looking for examples from private collections. Maybe you have one by Félix González-Torres from the MCA?
Winter Love, Chicago-Style
Redmoon Theater's beloved annual Winter Pageant was featured on the most recent episode "Fear No Art Chicago."
Renter, Git Yer Shovel
Think just cause you rent an apartment you don't have to shovel your walk? Well, the city's "Snow and Ice Removal" ordinance says otherwise. Essentially you have three hours after the snow stops to remove it. At least you only have to shovel a 5-foot swath down your sidewalk. (thanks, Sam!)
Rahm Stays in the Race
Rahm Emanuel should be allowed to run for mayor, a hearing officer said in a recommendation to the Chicago Board of Elections. It's expected to be made official today.
Paying for Festivals One Fee at a Time
The Daley administration is circulating RFPs for the operation of major Chicago festivals that can include fees, naming rights and other new revenue sources.
Pretty Awesome People
Chicago magazine has picked its six Chicagoans of the year for 2010.
Time to Go Back to Counting Lessons
Remember that misreporting of traffic delays from Canadian National trains? The federal Surface Transportation Board just levied its first fine ever for the violation: $250,000.
Rodney the Singing Mailman
The A.V. Club's mailman, Rodney Johnson, has become a minor celebrity thanks to his singing voice, which is on display in his "Silent Night" duet with Andrew W.K.
Architects Say the Darndest Things
In Chicago Magazine's "40 Reasons to Love Chicago," reason 35 highlights some epic architectural rivalries. Stanley Tigerman's "shove it" to the UIC architecture department takes the cake.
Publishing Nine Photographs from 30,000
Chicagoist is featuring more "whimsical" photographs from the archive of Art Shay.
The Top 5...
NewCity's Top Five of Everything issue is out today.
If Only We had a Time Machine...
Crap, we forgot about Chicago TARDIS, the area's biggest "Dr. Who" fan convention, again this year! Well, at least we have photos to tide us over till next November. [via]
It's On
Logan Hardware celebrates its grand re-opening on Jan. 15. That wouldn't normally be newsworthy, except that Steve Wiebe, star of the documentary King of Kong, will be on hand attempting to once again break the world record for Donkey Kong -- and teaching a class on how to play to win.
Recycling The Glow
Remember you should try and recycle old strings of lights, not throw them in the garbage. The City of Chicago has a mess of special drop-off locations that take lights, now through Jan. 18, 2011. (Download a handy flyer in English and en Espanol.)
The Grinchiest
A man was recorded stealing UPS packages off of a porch in Andersonville over the weekend. Police are still looking for him, or waiting for his heart to grow three sizes. [via]
Anti-Gay, Pro-Sodomy
The Reader's Whet Moser points us to the, er, interesting Heterosexuals Organized for a Moral Environment, an anti-gay group based in Downers Grove.
Elston Bus in the Future?
A couple alderman are encouraging the CTA to bring a bus line back to Elston Avenue to support the burgeoning commercial district east of Western.
Keeping Warm Chicago Style
If you were wondering about where to get the Chicago-themed hat from Monday's Rearview photograph, you weren't the only one. It's made by Chicagoan Allison Lower, who has a Chicago knitting company with a friend. Until their website is online, you can order your own through her etsy page. (Thanks. Matt!)
Forced Out of Cabrini
In Mechanics, Rory Fanning tells the story of one woman evicted from the last Cabrini Green high-rise.
Racist Goes to Jail
Speaking of jail, white supremacist radio host Hal Turner was sentenced to 33 months in prison for threatening the lives of three Chicago appeals court judges after they overturned a local ban on handguns.
Hideout Your Gifts
Still don't have your Christmas shopping done? The Hideout gives you another chance to buy local with its holiday sale tonight.
Ryan Stays in Jail
Imprisoned former governor George Ryan lost his latest bid for early release, despite pleas that he be allowed to spend time with his wife, who is dying from cancer.
As FoGB Veronica Arreola said on Twitter, "There are many, far less powerful, people who endure agony of watching loved ones die while they are in prison."
Get Home Safe
Bluelight is a safety app for iPhones that alerts a contact if you don't make it to a destination by a certain time.
Lords of the Levee on TV
Atlantic City can have its "Boardwalk Empire" -- we'll get a new series based on Lords of the Levee: The Story of Bathhouse John and Hinky Dink, which was a GB Book Club read last year. [via]
Greasy Fingers and Good Conversation
Eric May -- artist, proprietor of Roots and Culture and food enthusiast -- has set out to start up a "Mobile Culinary Community Center."
Winter Zen
Burbling creeks are soothing even under ice.
The Front Lines of the Economy
Even the Maxwell Street Market is showing signs of struggle in this recession. But even at the bottom rung of commerce, there is optimism.
Call it a Drink Special
The Drink Deck has launched an iPhone app, which gets you the same deals as the 52-card deck but costs $10 less. [via]
Free Art Patches
At noon today, the Uptown Multi-Cultural Art Center will be giving away free art patches at the intersection of State and Lake as part of its Free Speech Artists Movement.
Get Some Hot Cocoa
Seems like a good day for Mexican hot chocolate.
More Than Coal in Their Stockings
It seems partners and associates at Chicago-based law firm Kirkland & Ellis are receiving some pretty amazing holiday bonuses this year. [via]
RIP Cliff Doerksen
Film critic Cliff Doerksen passed away on Friday. His former publications, Time Out Chicago and the Reader, have remembrances. (More.)
City Submerged
Craig Shimala turns Chicago into a water wonderland with a digital camera strapped to his windshield (and a nice ambient soundtrack).
SF's Best Chicago-Style Pizza
Chicago-style pizza is surprisingly common in San Francisco. Ex-pat David Shamma recently set up a double-blind taste test, pitting three of the city's best up against FedExed pies from Gino's and Malnatti's to see which was the best.
Not That You're Leaving...
An P., aka @goatking, has developed the Chicago Bucket List, things anyone should do "before leaving Chicago for good."
The Public & Personal Taps
Marina City News has an early look inside Public House, opening Jan. 13 at State and Kinzie, where a dozen of the tables will have not just their own beer taps but also liquor taps.
From Humboldt Park to Trump Tower
In this week's Drive-Thru feature, we introduce you to Cob Connection, an organization that teaches urban farming skills to ex-offenders in the most unlikely of places.
The Business of the Supreme Court
New research by faculty at Northwestern and the U of C demonstrates that Chief Justice John G. Roberts Jr.'s Supreme Court sees more business cases and sides more frequently with business than any court since the 1950s.
Chicago Critics' Top Pick Flicks
The Chicago Film Critics Association (which includes our own Steve Prokopy) released the nominations for its 2010 awards. The Social Network received the most nominations.
Bike Dancers Wanted
Ladies, do you like to ride bikes and dance? If so, The Racketeers BMX dance troupe is looking for some new recruits.
Prepare Your "Pawssport"
The Trib takes us behind the scenes at Valley Air Service, 10 to 15 percent of whose executive charter flights are for pets.
Bring It On
@Eligratz put together a list and made a map of all the BYOB restaurants in Chicago (though he'd like to know if he missed any).
Turmoil at Equality Illinois
Equality Illinois has fired cofounder and longtime director of public policy, Rick Garcia. Garcia "refused to go quietly," and was removed from Equity Illinois' offices by police today.
Not So Fast, My Friend
In an unusual move representing the triumph of democracy and/or corporate ass-covering, Big Ten commissioner Jim Delany said today the conference might reconsider "Legends" and "Leaders," the widely mocked names unveiled four days ago for its new football divisions. Audio at WGNRadio.com.
Goodbye, Movies in a Bank
The Bank of America Cinema (née LaSalle Bank Cinema) screens its last film Saturday night; Alison Cuddy has a remembrance. The cinema's programmers will return as the Northwest Chicago Film Society in February, with the Portage Theater as its home.
Reading at Intermediate Level
Time Out Chicago's Frank Sennett took a look at Chicago media websites' reading levels according to Google. I'm not sure I agree with his all his results. Here's how GB's sections break down.
Layer Tennis Championships
Chicago's own Mig Reyes made it to the Layer Tennis Championships -- tune in at 1pm to see him play Romaninan Noper. And get a load of the coin flip this week, featuring several women you may recognize.
Stop Violence Against Sex Workers
Today is International Day to End Violence Against Sex Workers, and the Sex Workers Outreach Project Chicago is observing it with a discussion, film screening and vigil at Jane Addams Hull House Museum, 800 S. Halsted St., starting at 6:30pm.
Be a Meter Maid
Need a job? You could be a parking ticket writer.
Doggy Power
Sugar, my canine consigliere and the official mascot of GB, is competing for household pet supremacy today at WCIU's Cat vs. Dog. Care to make a dream a reality and vote?
Good Deals, Good Deeds
The Local Tourist has launched its own deals site -- with a charitable twist.
Little Girl in Alley Rescued By Ballerinas
The Loneliest Monk released their debut music video this week. The cello and drumset dreamscape was shot by Chicago film collectives Rubbish and HYSTK. The HD version of The Ghost & the Silhouette is up on YouTube.
Kid K's Komeback
Kerry Wood is a Cub once more. For a year, anyway.
A Lot of Pot
No less than 22,000 lbs of marijuana were seized on six train cars in Chicago Heights. It's nearly three times the size of the previous largest seizure in recent years.
Got Gifts?
No? Slacker. It's OK though -- this Saturday at Schubas, shop the Indie Arts Holiday Market, a manageable plethora of potential presents from local artists and designers.
The Real Deal
Not to be outdone by Groupon (and the gajillion other Groupon-esque sites out there), The Reader has launched its own daily deal program, focusing on local merchants.
A Waste of Good Canvas
Wow, those really are some Bad Paintings of Barack Obama. [via]
Da Mare Bear
Mayor Daley's looking rather bear-like in this portrait, part of the Chicago Urban Art Society's The Daley Show. [via]
100% True Rahm Facts
In the latest Chicagoist podcast, Karl Klockars talks with the creators of Rahmfacts.
Ozzie Claus
The White Sox are offering a special deal on a ticket package named after manager Ozzie Guillen. And who better to promote it than Ozzie himself? Actually, probably quite a few people.
Not for the Meeks
Rev. Meeks put another foot in his mouth yesterday, saying in a WVON political forum, "I think that the word 'minority,' from our standpoint, should mean African-American. I don't think women, Asians and Hispanics should be able to use that title."
Culture Clubbed
The Department of Cultural Affairs laid off 20 employees on Friday, bringing the number of total layoffs since October to 29. The functions handled by those laid-off employees are going to be transferred, along with the appropriate funding, to the non-profit Chicago Tourism Fund (which is, by the way, hiring). UPDATE: Dan Morgridge adds some perspective in Transmission.
Additional Consequences of Stalled Contract Negotiations
The American Sociological Association is relocating its 2011 annual meeting (and 10,000+ attendees) away from Chicago due to ongoing hotel labor disputes.
Tumbl into Books
University of Chicago Press is giving away books for the next 10 days; all you have to do is follow one of its two accounts on Tumblr to be entered into each day's drawing.
Mugs in the News in the News
Michael Miner takes a closer look at the phenomenon that is the mugshot gallery.
Your Local Top Hotels
Travel + Leisure released its annual World's 500 Best Hotels list yesterday, and nine of them are in Chicago.
In order of score, from lowest to highest, these are T+L's top Chicago hotels:
Swissotel, Chicago
The Drake
Park Hyatt Chicago
Sofitel Chicago Water Tower
Ritz-Carlton, Chicago
Four Seasons Hote, Chicago
Sutton Place Hotel Chicago
The Peninsula Chicago
Trump International Hotel & Tower Chicago
Um, Can You Get Those Through Airport Security?
Top Chef All-Stars judge Anthony Bourdain lauds Sprout's Dale Levitski for having gigantic titanium balls.
Mayoral Hopefuls Talk Education
Several of the top mayoral candidates met yesterday to discuss their plans on education. Curtis Black and Mike Flannery have reports.
Have You Misplaced a Snowball?
Perhaps today's Rearview image will provide a much needed clue.
Chicago Red Stars Suspend Operations
The women's soccer league, citing insufficient funds, hopes to find new investors and start again in 2012.
What Do You Appreciate?
Design firm Faust will be out front of NBC Tower on Friday, Dec. 17 from 7 to 10am to promote Appreciate-It, a site they hope will collect a million appreciative sentiments, which they'll submit to Guinness as the world's longest holiday card.
Reader Leadership Change
Geoff Dougherty, former publisher of Chi-Town Daily News and Chicago Current, takes over as Reader editor in chief as Kiki Yablon leaves.
Kanye Hear What I Hear
Kanye West released a cover of "Christmas in Harlem" today. [via]
100 Good Songs
You may have a few of Pitchfork's top 100 tracks of 2010 on your playlist already.
Rahm the Resident
Vanity Fair shares their ten favorite questions from Rahm Emanuel's Chicago residency hearing.
Mapmaking Fun
The New York Times has an interactive map for searching distribution of ethnicity and race all over the country based on American Community Survey data from 2005-2009. Chicago's maps are, uh...just as I thought.
77 Sets
Eliezer Appleton photographed every one of Chicago's official community areas this year and last -- all from his bike.
Love, Kells
Singer R. Kelly reached out to fans last night by posting a photo of a hand-typed letter to his TwitPic stream. Added bonus: his signature is accompanied by a sketch of a teddy bear head.
Portraits in the Park
Lincoln Park's Portrait Statues is a blog covering exactly that. [via]
Scale Up Your Idea
Got a good idea for a tech project? ScaleWell's has opened up its third grant round for applications.
Roger Ebert Returns to Television
Roger Ebert tweets that his new television program, "Roger Ebert Presents At the Movies," will premiere on January 21 in 192 markets and the Armed Forces Network.
Letters to Santa
Second City's star-studded Letters to Santa 24-hour music and comedy marathon starts at 8pm and runs through 8pm tomorrow. Tickets are just $15, and since they're only available at the door starting at 6:30, you better go get in line! (Can't make it? They'll be streaming it live online.)
A Christmas Mystery
Local writer Tim Steil received a strange, mangled letter in the mail recently, forwarded from the fictional Romanian MidAtlantic Postage Recovery at 82.5 S. Cicero.
The Woman Behind Sylvia
In Book Club, Rose Lannin talks with legendary cartoonist Nicole Hollander about her early days, Sylvia and her re-emergence on the web.
Look Out! It's an Art Spree!
The Illinois Artisans Program is holding an Holiday Art Spree this Wednesday through Friday, Dec. 15-17. Twenty artists and crafters from around the state will be selling their work in the Thompson Center atrium, 100 W. Randolph.
The Kindness of Strangers
Do something kind for a foster child: check out the Northern Stars Holiday Giving Program. You can select a male or female child from age 4 to 17 and buy something (or everything) off their wish list. Sure, you'll find the usual Christmas gift wishes: Barbies, scooters, iPods. But there are also some real heart-breakers: Different colored string. A nightgown. Snow boots. A warm comforter. (If you don't have time to get to the store, you can choose your kid, then click a link that allows you to shop through Amazon and have your gift sent to the collection site.)
A Crafter's Call to Action
The Needle Shop is collecting handmade, kid-sized blankets for Project Night Night, a charity that distributes childhood essentials -- like books, stuffed animals and blankets -- to homeless children. You can drop off crib-sized (or smaller) blankets at The Needle Shop, 2054 W. Charleston, through December 30.
Get it in Mustard Yellow
Adding to the Chicago style hot dog art genre is this t-shirt by Know Your Flag.
Chicago Forward
CityForward, a new site built by John Tolva and a team at IBM's Chicago offices, provides platform for exploring city data. Check out the first couple data sets in Chicago.
The Big Dozen's New Logo
The Big Ten unveiled its new logo yesterday, along with a realignment of its divisions now that there are 12 teams. In Tailgate, Jim Reedy isn't thrilled.
Exploring Lawrence Avenue
Lawrence is one of Chicago's most culturally diverse streets. John Greenfield recently walked the length of it for a feature in A/C.
A Reminder About Online Sales and Use Taxes
You probably owe them, and the Illinois General Assembly wants to help you pay them.
Kirk Fits In
Missing from The Daily Show's homage last night to the Senate Republicans who voted effectively against the James Zagroda 9/11 Health and Compensation Act, which would fund health care for the first responders of the World Trade Center collapse, is your new Republican Senator (and sometimes heroic vet and 9/11 sympathizer) Mark Kirk.
Clear the Sidewalks
Uptown Update reminds you what to do if the sidewalk by your home isn't shoveled.
Your Year in Pictures
The deadline is fast approaching for the Reader's 1,000 Words photo contest. Get your best shots in by midnight on Dec. 15 for a chance to be in the Reader's photography special and possibly win a camera.
Meet Teacher Lara Lindh
On any one day, our latest subject in the Classroom Mechanics oral history project will find herself in a room with up to 20 children who may speak any mixtures of English, Spanish, Arabic or Polish.
Howard Brown Changes Board
Howard Brown Health Center, which has been in the news recently for its precarious financial condition, is making some major changes to its board of directors. The center isseeking a more diverse board that better reflects its constituency.
Eat on the Street
Chicago's food truck battle hit the Wall Street Journal today.
Unload from Your Phone
Mapding is location-based mobile app for buying and selling items, such as concert tickets. It's available free on iPhone and Android.
Don't Get Into Vampires
It only leads to harder stuff. One day you're on Team Edward, the next you're talking end of days with some Cthulu-head in a dark alley.
Skyline Stage: Now with More Skyline
The Skyline stage at Navy Pier is a little airier now that its roof was removed by high winds.
Chicago's Indie Video Game Darling
In Tailgate, Fruzsina Uordogh interviews local video game designer Erin Robinson about her entry into video game design and getting more women involved in the industry.
The Year of Living Charitably
Carlo Garcia is about two-thirds of the way through a year of doing something philanthropic every day. (Thanks, Gian!)
Tip Jar Bandit Caught
A Chicago man was arrested for stealing tip jars from at least three Starbucks and possibly several other coffee shops in the city and suburbs.
When Having a Job isn't Enough to Get Paid
Crain's finds that Chicago workers are increasingly getting stiffed by their employers for wages earned.
Satromizer Gives You Glitches on the Go
Video/installation artist Jon Satrom and designer/programmer/photographer Ben Syverson have created a way to make glitch photo art via iPhone.
A Very CMoS Christmas
This miniature Chicago Manual of Style is probably the only style guide you can use to decorate your Christmas tree. [via]
Mado Walk-out #2
Things don't look good at Mado. After its original chefs, Rob and Allie Levitt, left to open a butcher shop, Brandon Baltzley took over. Now Eater reports Baltzley's quit, too, and took the whole kitchen staff. They'll be doing a "pop up dinner" at Delicious on Dec. 17.
One Way to Trim a Tree
With ballcaps, Bulls at the top. [via]
When Aunt Flo Comes to Town
Harebrained's period panties might give you super powers (or at least a good laugh) when it's, um, "shark week."
City Farms Take Root
Produce industry magazine The Packer reports on the City Produce Project's first harvest.
Find a Desk
Looking for a place to work? Desktime gives you a hand.
Jackson the Mushroom Man
Herbert Fickenworth, 12 years old, Chicago, writes: "I am picking and selling mushrooms every day."
Onscreen Battle
Threadless designer Mig Reyes made it to the second round of Layer Tennis playoffs, and is playing today against Atlantan Mark Weaver. You can watch him work live during the match.
A Hundred Ways to Blog an Egg
Chef's hats have 100 pleats to signify the number of ways a chef knows how to cook an egg. One Hundred Eggs shares a few of those ways, along with sumptuous food photography.
Flying Brains & Lava Pits
The iO-based improv group Warm Milk have created a videogame called Improv Heroes, with characters based on local improv greats.
Kickstart Cold Fusion
137 Films is trying to finish a film about cold fusion, and has just a couple more days to go to raise the funds on Kickstarter. If you're into science, lend a hand.
Lakeview to Save Money, Complain About Wal-Mart
Wal-Mart has signed a lease for retail space at 2840 N. Broadway, Chicago Real Estate Daily reports. [via]
Another Reporter Without a Job
Brenda Starr, the intrepid reporter who filled comics pages for more than 70 years, will cover her last story on January 2.
A Soprano on the CTA
Opera megastar Renée Fleming was just named Creative Consultant for the Lyric Opera.
NewCity's Number Ones
Cultural weekly NewCity gives us their 2010 top picks in vintage TV shows filmed in Chicago, food trucks, indoor make-out spots, and many more.
Select Packaged Goods
The Select Media Festival kicks off tonight at Maria's Packaged Goods & Community Bar with a launch party for the latest issue of Proximity Magazine.
An Ocean of Good
Jenn Gibbons is planning to row across the Atlantic Ocean in January 2012 to raise money and awareness for Recovery on Water, a rowing club for breast cancer survivors we profiled in Tailgate earlier this year.
The Fighting Chicagoans
If Gapers Block had a uniform, this might be on its sleeve.
You Got to Spend Money to Make Money
Cash Cab has come to Chicago. But apparently contestants aren't as randomly chosen as you'd think.
Punching Up the Banjo
Native Chicagoan and professional banjo player Noam Pikelny talks in Transmission about his upcoming Lincoln Hall shows with the Punch Brothers, two Grammy noms, and receiving a unique award from Steve Martin.
You're Brewing it Wrong
Intelligentsia has come out with an iPhone/iPad app that teaches you the proper way to make your coffee. (Thanks, Roderick!)
Time Out, Feder In
Media critic Robert Feder will join Time Out Chicago in the new year. (Previously.)
Foreclosure Maps
Want a visualization of foreclosures in the city? Turn to Google Maps. (More what you're looking at.) [via]
Lawrence and Julie and Julia
Northwestern University student Lawrence Dai is watching Julie & Julia every day for an entire year. Naturally, he is blogging about it. [via]
Chicken Skin is the Next Bacon?
The Stew makes some food trend predictions for 2011. While bacon may be getting a little old, chicken skin seems like an unlikely successor.
Wanna Come With?
Turns out "come with" isn't just a Chicago (and Midwest) thing, it's grammatically correct. Read the study here.
Chicago's Destruction is in the 2nd Trailer
The first official trailer for Transformers 3: Dark Side of the Moon is out -- not a bit of Chicago so far. Just, you know, the dark side of the moon.
If You Like it Then You Shoulda...
Proving that the kids are all right, Jeff Tweedy's son Spencer gets geeky with the maths and makes some of us wish we were kids again.
How to Pack a Book Release Party
You too can have the Vice President, the Second Lady, a Supreme Court justice and others at your book release party if your mother is the chief of staff for the First Lady.
Vocal Baseball
R. Kelly hit a home run last night on Late Night with Jimmy Fallon.
Strange Carfellows
Buick wants you to "re:discover" Chicago, and turned to Busy Beaver's Christen Carter, Groupon's Andrew Mason, DJ Kate Simko and others for insider looks at the city. Carter and Mason also did a driving tour video together. [via]
"Illinois State Lottery"
That's what popped up for us on the United States of Autocomplete.
Same as it Ever Was
Newly elected Cook County Assessor Joe Berrios went ahead and hired his son and sister, who worked for him in his previous job, confirming that nepotism lives on in our great city.
How to Make Tea
Ever wonder the best way to make tea? Chicago Tea Garden's Tony Gebely breaks it down for you.
Movie Houses Remembered
A gallery captures the grandeur and elegance of the Granada, Uptown, Adelphi, and other Chicago area "lost palaces" -- movie theaters that recall a bygone age. [via]
Chicago's Coyote Custodians
NPR's Robert Krulwich delves a bit deeper into the story of Chicago's coyote pest control team.
Robin Hood Enters the Matrix
The Wachowskis, whose current project is a future-flashback Iraq War gay love story/assassination plot, are planning to put an urban twist on the Robin Hood story in their next film, possibly with Will Smith in the lead role.
No Stone Left Unturned
Thought you'd stick it to the city by taking a cab instead of feeding a meter? Aldermen Burke and Austin are one step ahead of you. The Finance Committee's considering a dollar-per-cab-ride surcharge that "could generate upwards of $70,000,000 in much needed [sic] annual revenue for the city."
Want to be on "Glee"?
First you'll have to audition for a reality show about wanting to be on "Glee," and then you have to win said reality show to be a guest star.
Not Another Teabag
Ineeka is a Chicago-based tea company with a farm in India and a unique "delivery system."
PETA + CTA
PETA is praising the CTA for its humane killing of mice.
Chicago Survival Pack
BYOB Chicago, Drink Deck and Not For Tourists have teamed up to create the Chicago Survival Guide, a good gift for friends who want a cheap drink with dinner in a neighborhood they're not that familiar with.
Always Lo-Fi. Always.
A track from Jim O'Rourke's 1999 album Eureka can now be heard in a Wal-Mart commercial for cell phone plans.
Chicago Cops Will Tase You Bro!
Chicago police officers have tased people 683 times in the last year -- that's roughly 200 more times than in 2009 -- according to the Independent Police Review Authority's annual report. [via]
Second Death of Venus
Venus Zine is shuttering its print operations once again. The website will soldier on -- and in fact is running a button design contest right now.
The News in Brief
The Top Sheet (previously) has finally launched -- watch for it at the Damen Blue Line stop. There's some discussion of its pros and cons on WindyCitizen.
New MAS Context Issue Released
The eighth issue of the MAS Studio journal MAS Context is live today. Entitled "Public," it addresses everything from a reconceptualization of design principles to what makes a favorite public space.
I Want My $2
Did Comcast internet service go out for you on Sunday night? Comcast wants to give you a couple bucks for the inconvenience.
Education is Key to Parking Legally
Time to vote on next year's city sticker design. Voting ends Dec. 12.
Tune In, Vote Often
Early and Often has created a wall of political videos.
What's In Season?
The Local Foods Wheel can help figure it out. [via]
Gift Hunt
In honor of their iPhone app's second incarnation, online cultural guide Flavorpill is hosting a city scavenger hunt, where you answer Chicago trivia questions to win some presents.
Coding Elves
Jelly Chicago is hosting Tech the Halls, its third annual holiday party for the Chicago startup community, Saturday night at Noble Tree.
Blue Christmas
NIU professor Bill Studwell, whose 25-year-long "Carol of the Year" project covered the histories of individual Christmas songs, passed away last August, a few months shy of completing the project. The Trib provides an interesting and touching retrospective on the man and his work.
A Rare Christmas Film
Don't like the typical Christmas flicks? Then Steve at the Movies has a special sneak preview just for you.
Might as Well be Priceless
At Bein & Fushi on Michigan Avenue, there is a rare violin made by Giuseppe Guarneri del Gesù in 1742. It's for sale at the record price of $18 million.
Winterization Cash from Our Political Overlords
Your alderman has $40 for you to use for that winterization project you've been putting off.
Chicago Rap City
Speaking of Fake Shore Drive, you might be interested in the list of the 50 greatest Chicago rap songs they compiled with Complex.com.
Kiss Kiss Hustlaz
Fake Shore Drive has new tracks from Kid Sister and Twista.
Sedaris Seeks Allegory
Fear No Art has launched a podcast, and the first features David Sedaris, discussing his newest book, Squirrel Seeks Chipmunk: A Modest Bestiary, his years living in Chicago and his advice for young authors.
Thanks, But I Still Supported the Other Guys
A certain politician with the last name Palin celebrated U of C b-school professor Luigi Zingales in her recent book. While the right-wing professor likes the attention, he's still not going to buy her book.
Taking a Stand Against Dibs
With the advent of our first snow, Chair Free Chicago launches.
The 2nd Hand is at 10
Literary broadsheet THE2NDHAND is 10 years old, and it's using Kickstarter to fund a commemorative book. Give them a hand, and also head to the Hungry Brain Tuesday night for its new performance series, So You Think You Have Nerves of Steel?, which will feature a cameo by our own Ramsin Canon.
Studio Time on the Cheap
Stray Dog Recording Company is an L3C nonprofit dedicated to providing affordable studio time to the city's music community. Right now, that means $20 per hour for your first session.
Chicago, City on the Plains
Or city on a toothbrush. Whichever. [via]
On the Street Where Oprah Lives
The Chicago Jazz Orchestra, which has played the afterparty for the Kennedy Center Honors for the past 22 years, was treated to a special guest vocalist at this past weekend's ceremony -- "Glee's" Matthew Morrison. Among this year's honorees was an obscure local talk show host.
The Bright One Dot-Com
The Sun-Times debuted a redesigned website today.
Unearthing Chicago's Emerging Fashion Community
Ambitious young fashion designers, unsatisfied with the glaring gaps in the production and advocacy of cutting edge fashion in Chicago, are taking matters into their own hands. Learn more in A/C.
Grouponed Cat Drawings
Steve Gadlin ran a Groupon for his IWantToDrawACatForYou.com and it sold out; now he has to draw 1,000 cats.
Oprah, What do You have in Store for Us?
With The Oprah Winfrey Show wrapping up in May, Crain's takes a look at what may or may not be going on with Harpo Studios.
Arnie's & Zorine's: Another Era
Gridface tells the story of DJ Sim Garrett, who used to DJ at Zorine's, a nightclub owned by Arnie Morton of Morton's fame. Looking for more info on Zorine's led me to this interesting reminiscence by Robert Patrick about working at Arnie's, another Morton restaurant from the 1970s.
Groupon Rejects Google
Groupon says "no thanks" to the reported $6 billion offer from search engine giant Google.
Michael Bay, Lingerie Models, Chicago, Milwaukee
The minty and ballyhooed, Michael Bay-directed Victoria's Secret commercial has hit the Internets and lo, Chicago and our friendly neighbor to the north, Milwaukee are both featured prominently. Well, their cityscapes at least. Yep, that's Marina City you see behind some beauty's behind. And, that's right, there's the Calatrava-designed Milwaukee Art Museum. Not really a surprise that Chicago and Milwaukee were used as sets for the shoot. Bay's been in town since this summer for the next Transformers sequel and well, supermodels just hang out here all the time. Right?
C'mon In: The Water's Fine!
A federal judge has ruled against the closure of Chicagoland's shipping locks, thereby dashing (at least temporarily) the hopes of anti-Asian-carpers in the Great Lakes basin.
Northerly Island Details Released
Those intrigued by yesterday's glimpse of the Northerly Island development proposal will love the full framework plan [pdf] and corresponding video.
Bodies of Water
This map of Chicago neighborhoods is pretty cool, but something about the lake bothers me...
"Illinois bill also applies to heterosexuals"
The Trib reminds us that everyone can join in on civil union fun!
Shaken, Not Stirred
Need a bartender for an upcoming party? You could win the services of one of the city's best.
Chemical Plush
If the Star Wars photo wasn't nerdy enough for you, how about amigurumi molecules? Such as caffeine, or Christmas methane.
I Went to the 1893 World's Fair...
...and All I Got Was Brutally Murdered: what the title of Devil in the White City should have been, according to Better Book Titles, where you can "cut through all the cryptic crap" of titles local and otherwise.
Christmas on Tatooine
If your Secret Santa pick is a Star Wars fan, photographer Michael Ramova has the perfect gift for you.
Join Us for a Holiday Party!
Join the staff and readers of Gapers Block for a holiday party next Friday! We'll be at Black Rock Dec. 10 from 7pm to 10pm. We'll have free beer (while it lasts) thanks to Scared Panda, lots of free swag, and a roaring fire in the fireplace to help warm you up. RSVP on Facebook if you like, or just meet us at the bar!
Gifts that Sound Great
The Transmission staff has compiled their picks for the best holiday gifts for that discerning Chicago music lover. Whether you want to spend $5 or $300, we've got you covered.
The Globe Stops Spinning
Replogle Globes, one of the world's largest globe makers, has been sold and is closing its Chicago factory.
Only 40?
From street food to Common to the iO, Chicago magazine's got 40 reasons to love Chicago.
I'll Work Out on that Sawhorse, Please
In April, residents of Albany Park were so excited about a new gym opening in their neighborhood they purchased memberships before it even opened. Months have since passed without much progress on the gym's construction. Now credit card charges for a membership at an unopened gym, conflicting statements and additional research into the matter are raising more questions than answers.
Buy One, Get One, See Four
Hubbard Street Dance Chicago's Winter Series -- featuring four works, including a Chicago premiere -- is this weekend. And "weekend" is the key word: enter it in the promotion code box when you buy a ticket to Sunday's matinee, and you'll get another ticket for free.
R.I.P., Ron Santo
The former Cub and Cubs announcer has passed away.
Get Back To Your Roots
Roots for Christmas provides a refreshing and responsible alternative to cut (or fake) holiday trees. They'll deliver a live tree to your house, pick it up after you're done with it, then plant it in an urban heat island to improve air quality.
Locks to Remain Open for Foreseeable Future
Remember the lawsuits that would force area locks closed to protect against Asian carp infestations of Lake Michigan? A federal judge struck down the last one yesterday.
Classy All Stars
Cody Hudson has some new shoes.
The Key Ingredient Is...
What would a chef do with an ingredient they've never used before? The Reader intends to find out with its new series, Key Ingredient. First up is, of course, Grant Achatz and kluwak kapas nuts. The online version includes a video by Sky Full of Bacon's Michael Gebert.
Mega-City of the Future
In 2050, Chicago will be the major megalopolis holding together the Great Lakes Mega-Region, according to the Regional Plan Association.
Pop Open a Cold One
You have Chicagoans to thank for both canned beer and a way to open them.
New Neighborhood Portals Launch
Englewood, Auburn Gresham and Chicago Lawn join Pilsen Humboldt Park in LISC's collection of Smart Community portals.
Clean Running
Some Whitney Young students are making cleaner biofuel at UIC.
Will Sears Tower Spook Your Tube?
I don't know, but my tube is pretty spooked by the March 1976 issue in this awesomely bizarre gallery of old Chicago Magazine covers. Ye Gods.
Make it Snow
Not satisfied with yesterday's paltry snow accumulation? Give these guys a call. (Thanks, Sarah!)
Rahm Emanuel And Mark Kirk Don't Make New Trier Hall of Fame List
Neither Rahm Emanuel nor Sen. Mark Kirk made their high school's hall of fame the Sun-Times reports. (h/t: Politico). Members of the hall of fame include former Secretary of Defense Donald Rumsfeld and Christie Hefner (daughter of Hugh Hefner).
Davis Wins Top Of The Ballot
Rep. Danny Davis's name will be at the top of the ballot for the Chicago mayoral race. Voting is on February 22nd.
One Last Look at Cabrini
Just ahead of the last Cabrini Green high-rise's closure, Residents Journal spoke to a three-generation family about their time in the project as they prepared to move out. The Chicago Reporter has another perspective.
"Our Christmas present to the Internet"
Playboy is releasing a "pocket-sized" USB hard drive filled with every issue of the magazine from 1953 to 2010, as well as an ill-advised Facebook game that rewards play with centerfolds.
A "Millennium Park of nature"
Later today the Chicago Park District will unveil a long-term concept for Northerly Island, and it's a looker.
Hey, That's Not My Signature!
Notary Public Maricela Rodriguez says that her seal and signature were forged more than 400 times on nominating petitions for mayoral hopefuls Rob Halpin and James Meeks.
Come Together, Go Forth and Create
Next Friday, head to the Evil Olive for Reply All, a gathering of artists, designers, writers and more -- anyone who likes to make, do, and drink.
Remember it Now
FoGB Coudal Partners' Field Notes stir up nostalgia for analog note-taking, Reuters reports.
Howard Brown Needs You to Like Them Today
The Howard Brown Health Center, which recently has been plagued by financial problems, has gotten a spot of good luck: an anonymous donor has agreed to donate $25 to them for every new Facebook friend added to the Center's profile today, in honor of World AIDS Day.
Achatz on the Line
Both Eater and Grub Street have early peeks at Grant Achatz' upcoming memoir, Life, On the Line. Meanwhile, GQ offers a glimpse at Achatz' thought process behind Alinea's fall menu
Illinois Senate Approves Civil Unions
The Illinois Senate approved the bill giving same-sex couples the same rights in a civil union as married couples. Gov. Quinn is expected to sign the bill into law as soon as today.
Objectionable Candidates
Eleven of the 20 candidates for mayor and may of the 350 candidates for alderman face objections to their petitions. Early and Often has an unofficial list of the objections. Meanwhile, Danny Davis got the top spot on the mayoral ballot.
Biodynamic Drinkability
In Drive-Thru, meet Shebnem Ince, a Chicago-born sommelier who specializes in biodynamic and organic wines.
Winter Towing Haul
The City snagged 215 vehicles in the first night of winter overnight parking restrictions.
Further Groupon News
While Google awaits an answer, Groupon has announced a couple new services: Groupon Stores and Deal Feed. Time Out has a bit more, and a peek inside Groupon HQ.
How Google Can Keep Groupon
Groupon's board is meeting today to discuss Google's purchase offer, which is officially official now, I guess. Should the deal go down, Henry Blodget has some suggestions for Google on how not to screw it up.
Dead Birds
Claire Zulkey rounds up some examples of the riveting tweets we'll miss while Lady Gaga, Justin Timberlake and other celebs go silent on Twitter to raise money for Alicia Keys' (admittedly wholly worthwhile) nonprofit.
Emergency Flirting
Help the Red Cross and meet (presumably) cute, charity-minded singles at Flirting for Disaster, a fundraiser at the Bull & Bear tonight.
$3 Billion Gas Plant One Step Closer to Realization
The Illinois House passed legislation yesterday that could clear the way for a massive synthetic gas facility to be constructed along the Calumet River. It would burn refinery waste and coal to produce the fuel, which People's Gas argues would lead to considerable cost increases for Chicago users. Next up: the Senate.
