Grand Slam Poetry
Levi Stahl shares baseball-inspired poetry in honor of opening day.
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
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Monthly Archive
March 2011
Whoopie Cushions & Disappearing Ink
Wondering what to do for April Fool's Day tomorrow? Alicia from Uncle Fun visited the "Guy Bauer Half Hour" to share some tips.
Animating Valhalla
In Book Club, James Orbeson interviews producer Ruwan Jayatilleke about Thor & Loki: Blood Brothers, an animated miniseries based on the graphic novel by Chicagoan Robert Rodi.
Swapping One Parking Regulation for Another
The winter parking ban ends today, which means you can park on all those major thoroughfares again. Unless street sweeping signs or up, since that starts tomorrow at 9am.
Animal Twitter Kingdom
A cobra at the Bronx Zoo took to Twitter after escaping from its cage this week. The animals of Brookfield Zoo, Twitter veterans themselves, dropped it a note. "Hey @BronxZoosCobra; we animals have been tweeting for a few months now, where've u been? Let's tweet up-just hop on a plane."
Are You Happy?
That's the question that two nuns asked Chicagoans in the 1968 film Inquiring Nuns, produced by Chicago's own Kartemquin Films. Inquiring Nuns airs on WTTW tonight at 9pm, and other Kartemquin films will be shown later in the year as part of a celebration of the company's 45th anniversary. Details on the Kartemquin site.
Pretty Hip Parents
Chicago Parent just debuted ChiTown Parent, a confusingly named groupblog by 12 parents from around the city -- as well as a new monthly column by Devin Hester.
Smoke'em if You got Blackjack
The Illinois House voted to allow smoking in casinos; the bill now moves to the senate. As Kyle Hillman notes, money always wins out.
Insulting the Future
Chances are you've seen Smart Alex's greeting cards in area shops. You can also get their Insult-O-Scope horoscope app on your iPhone.
This Time, It's More than "Just Lunch"
The vegan chain Native Foods Café is moving its headquarters to Chicago and opening three new restaurants before the end of the summer.
Northwestern Students in a "Cage Match"
On Friday, a group of Northwestern students will begin watching Nicolas Cage movies, and they won't stop until Sunday. Thirty hours of Cage, all in the name of charity.
Scenes from Closing Borders
Local Borders bookstores are in their final days. Here are photos of the carnage over the last couple months.
Hyde Park:
by katherine of chicago
Michigan Avenue:
by Erin Nekervis
Lincoln Village:
by katherine of chicago
Evanston:
© Andy Marfia
Who was Wacker?
Wacker Drive is named for Charles Henry Wacker, the chairman of the Chicago Plan Commission from 1909 to 1926. He published a book, Wacker's Manuel of the Plan of Chicago: Municipal Economy, which for 12 years all CPS eighth graders were required to read -- and so can you.
Party with Websites
Your website dance card is full this week. On Thursday, Chicagoist is at Beauty Bar with the return of CMD-SHIFT-DANCE DJ night. Then on Friday, join Gapers Block at Cafe Bong Ho for karaoke! Hope to see you there!
In Control, Out of the Race
The New York Times ponders the peculiar predicament of Charlie Trotter: still excelling while the culinary world seems to pass him by.
Free Refills at O'Hare
Now after you're forced to dump your water bottle at O'Hare security, you can refill it for free. Not at McDonald's -- at these fancy new water fountains. [via]
Dreaming in Spray Paint
IKnowBilly has been sharing his dreams lately, but you might be more interested in his Graffiti News Network. [via]
IT CAME FROM CHICAGO!
Svengoolie is going national. Starting this weekend Rich Koz will bring his brand of humor and horror (humorror?) to the rest of the country through the ME-TV Network. (FYI, non-Chicagoans).
Don't be L.A.T.E.
You've got until tomorrow, March 31 to get the extreme early bird registration rate for this year's L.A.T.E. Ride. The ride itself is July 9/10.
Goodbye, Cabrini Green
Demolition of the last Cabrini Green high-rise starts today. In A/C, we have video of an audio-visual farewell that occurred last night.
Visiting Books in India
Chicago writer and photographer Alan Thomas shares thoughts and pictures from a visit to the Kolkata Book Fair and the city's book district.
Throwback Jersey
Even Michael Jordan is getting excited about tomorrow night's McDonald's All-American Games at the United Center. Photo from this afternoon:
Film Eavesdropping
Our own Steve at the Movies' alter ego, Capone on Ain't It Cool News, chatted recently with Source Code director Duncan Jones about, you know, the Bean and stuff.
The British Are Coming
We're not sure when the NFL will return to Soldier Field, but you can see the other kind of football there July 23 when the Chicago Fire hosts Manchester United, the biggest soccer team in the world. It's part of the annual World Football Challenge, which will also feature fellow European giant FC Barcelona and other MLS teams.
Ketchup at Gene & Jude's?
Fame comes at a cost for some of Chicago's cult restaurants, as word spreads internationally.
Billboards Kick Up Controversy
A controversial anti-abortion ad campaign debuted on three South Side billboards that feature President Obama's likeness. The Chicago Abortion Fund and Planned Parenthood have responded. Here is photograph of the billboards:
Protess to Launch Independent Innocence Project
After being relieved of teaching duties, Northwestern journalism professor David Protess has announced that he will launch the independent Chicago Innocence Project as a non-profit continuing the work of the Medill Innocence Project, which he founded.
And Now, Here's Yippie
BoingBoing digs up an odd 1968 film from the Yippie movement that supposedly aired on TV stations as an equal-time counterpoint to propaganda from the National Democratic Convention.
Ghost in the Literary Machine
Ghost Ocean Magazine is a literary journal with an interesting (if somewhat cumbersome) interface.
Paying Donating for Friends
Formerly Chicago-based Menuism has announced Feeding Hunger Chicago. They're donating $1 to the Greater Chicago Food Depository for every like they gain on Facebook between now and April 25.
Chicago's Newest Talkshow Host: Rosie O'Donnell
Rosie O'Donnell will be shooting a show for OWN in Oprah's Harpo Studios complex.
A Stretch by Any Means
The Sun-Times surely left an opportunity dangling with the straightforward headline on this story about the TLC Tugger, a foreskin restoration company soon to appear on the TLC network. I'm having trouble settling on just one.
The Big Wheel of Lincoln Park
For a couple of years, the Ferris wheel from the World's Columbian Exposition was set up along Clark Street, where a post office and McDonald's now stand.
Targeting Cabrini-Green
Now that the last Cabrini-Green high rise is on its way down, the CHA and Target are in discussions for a new Target store to be located on five acres formerly associated with the public housing project. The land would be swapped for other nearby property, and 75 CHA residents would be hired as employees.
RIP Michael Abramson
Michael Abramson, a photographer who chronicled nightlife on the South Side in the 1970s, passed away over the weekend.
Where Rock Once Lived
The host of Chicago Rock Tours gave A.V. Club Chicago a mini-tour of "hidden" former hotspots for Chicago's music scene on the North and West sides.
How We Get Around
The Center for Neighborhood Technology rounds up all the city's transportation options in a post connected to its Abogo transportation cost tool.
Regenstein Romances Redux
UChicago Hookups, which launched just a couple weeks ago, has already transformed into eduHookups.com and is now open to Northwestern and Columbia students, with Brown launching next week.
United States of X: Income Edition
Chicago is an Industrial Metroplex on this map of "the 12 States of America."
"Wow! That's Somethin' Else!" -- Eddie Cochran
IU Northwest professor and Chicagoan Jennifer Greenburg is a long-time collector of vintage '50s items, and has recently released the coffee-table book The Rockabillies, a pretty slick collection of her photos of modern rockabilly aficionados.
Anheuser Island
Local brewery Goose Island has agreed to be purchased by Anheuser-Busch for $38.8 million. Despite the ownership change, the brewery will stay in the city, and their brew pubs are not part of the deal.
Regrets, I've had a Few
A study by two professors at Northwestern and U of I found that romantic regrets were the most common among typical Americans.
Friday is Annoying on a Monday
The Trib talks to Jim Nayder of "The Annoying Music Show" about Rebecca Black's "Friday" and its place in the pantheon of annoying music.
Another Billionaire You Might Know
The Sun-Times profiles Mark Pincus, Chicago native and founder of Zynga. You may not know the company by name, but you probably know some of its products, like FarmVille and Mafia Wars.
We Are Metropolis
It looks like Superman: Man of Steel will be filmed in Chicago and far west suburban Plano, Crain's reports. No word on whether the real Metropolis will have a cameo.
The Last O Show
Set your DVR and stock up on tissues. Harpo Productions announced today that the last episode of "The Oprah Winfrey Show" will air on May 25, 2011. [via]
@MayorEmanuel Lives On
Dan Sinker landed a book deal for his @MayorEmanuel twitter project; meanwhile, the academic community continues to debate the ethics of a journalism professor becoming "part of the story."
Robot Wars!
The Illinois FIRST Robotics Competition is on right now at the UIC Pavilion -- and you can watch it online if you can't make it there tonight or tomorrow.
ISO Class 3 Mage
NearbyGamers will help you find someone to fill in on that Settlers of Catan game or your next WoW quest.
British Theatre in Chicago
The National Theatre is broadcasting Frankenstein, a new play directed by Danny Boyle, live in HD around the world, and you can catch performances at the Music Box in late April and May.
Long Live Zines
Al Burian's Burn Collector and Jessica Hopper's Hit It or Quit It are among the seminal "zines that changed [our] life" according to Flavorwire. Check out our three part preview of this weekend's Chicago Zine Fest in Book Club.
Watch out for Bedbugs
YoChicago has a proper rant about apartment-finding services, and offers a list of ones not to call.
Cooking up History
Chef Troy Graves has been trying out recipes from an 1896 edition of the Chicago Daily News Cook Book; we ran excerpts from the 1930 edition in Drive-Thru awhile back.
Chicago Current Again
Geoff Dougherty has quietly relaunched Chicago Current, nine months after he abruptly closed it and two months after he left the Reader. [via]
United States of X: Illinois Edition
DelovelyArts offers a slightly revised version of the US map. Illinois represents! [via] UPDATE: FoGB Phineas Jones says, "There, I fixed it."
Dog Park and Jazz Finally Together
A new South Loop dog park may be named after jazz icon Fred Anderson.
Dixiana at Diversey
For three years in the '30s, the showboat Dixiana was moored on the Chicago River just south of the Diversey bridge. In 1937 it was to house a performance of Tobacco Road, but Mayor Kelly saw the play and banned it from Chicago. The Dixiana headed to Michigan City, IN, where it sank in the harbor. [via]
Revising the Red & Purple Lines
The Reader's cover story this week takes a look at the CTA's Red and Purple Modernization Plan and how those train lines could be improved today. (You might also be interested in our own CTA Map for 2055, back in 2005.)
West Wing on the South Side
Chicago magazine takes you inside Chatham's Blue White House, yours for considerably less than the average presidential election campaign.
Labor Disasters and Social Reform in 1911
The NY Times' coverage of the Triangle Shirtwaist Factory fire on its 100th anniversary includes a collection of front page newspapers covering the event. The only non-New York paper is the Trib, whose Sunday edition also included news about Virginia Brooks, a social reformer in West Hammond who led "a small army of women" in a riot over paving stone quality and price. As it turns out, the Times also included a truncated version of the story in its edition.
Making Leaving School Safe
NPR looks at how a mix of security guards prevent after school violence by spending time in and around Woodlawn's Hyde Park Academy.
Where Your Cause on Your Sleeve
Threadless has launched Causes, where you can design t-shirts that benefit nonprofits and social movements. The first two shirts raise funds for Japan and New Zealand.
Tracy Swartz, CTA Centurion
The Red Eye's Tracy Swartz has been riding the CTA's many bus lines since 2009, and this Friday will be her 100th run. To commemorate, she's giving away 100 single-use fare cards -- follow her on Twitter for clues where to get them.
Brightening Up the Cube
Perhaps your boring workspace could double as a gallery, like Matt Maldre's.
Officers in Trouble after Gang Drop-off Video Discovered
Two Chicago police officers have been given desk duty after WBEZ discovered a video showing a young man being taunted by a large crowd while seated in the back of a police SUV. Our own Micah Uetricht spoke to Humboldt Park residents to get their reactions.
And that Means You!
GB flickr pool contributor Jeremy Farmer found one creative way to repurpose a "no trespassing" sign with another kind of warning message.
Dear Chicago, Please...
Surprisingly few Chicago-related submissions to Dear Blank, Please Blank, but the ones there are pretty great.
Striking a Pose
Related to our feature on Chicago's underground ball scene, here's a video from 1990 of the House of Avant-Garde performing to Madonna's "Vogue."
The video was a submission to an MTV contest to promote Madonna's tour, and was one of 10 winning finalists shown on the music television station. [via]
Spring Dining Deal
Today only, you can get the A la Carde restaurant discount pack for half the regular price.
Pizza Map
Serious Eats' Slice pizza blog has created a googlemap of all the Chicagoland pizzerias they (well, Daniel Zemans, mostly) have reviewed.
Sha-nana-nah, Hey Hey Hey
As Sox fans say goodbye to organist Nancy Faust, they'll be getting to know Lori Moreland.
Cubs' Losing Ticket
At least some of this year's Cubs tickets have a somewhat dated photo of the Wrigley Field scoreboard on them -- featuring Corey Patterson up to bat in 2004. Adding insult to injury, the Cubs lost that game against the Cardinals. (Thanks, Veronica!)
Laptop Recovery in Austin
Shawn of Netherfriends was writing a SXSW tour diary for us in Transmission when he sort of disappeared. Turns out his laptop was stolen -- but he got it back thanks to some cool free software.
Maybe Navy Pier is Good for the Children After All
The Children's Museum has argued for years that it needs to move from Navy Pier to Grant Park, but its resolve is wavering now.
I Wanna Rock & Roll All Nite/And Part of Every Day
Cool! KISS played a 1975 concert at Fremd High School in Palatine, with Rush opening -- and here's the proof.
Ebert Club Subscriptions Rise
The Ebert Club newsletter is still around a year later -- and if you subscribe today, you can still get in at the original $5/year base rate. Tomorrow, March 24, the cost is going up...to $10.
Hipsters: Invented Here
The word "hipster" was coined in Chicago, with a slightly different meaning.
Maybe He Found a Better Deal Elsewhere
Citing the company's need for a "much different type of operator to take it to the next level" to handle its rapid growth, Groupon COO and President Rob Solomon is leaving the company.
A Ride into Enemy Territory?
Are Chicago police dropping gang members off in opposing gangs' turf? A video discovered by WBEZ seems to indicate there's truth to the rumors. UPDATE: Our own Micah Uetricht spoke to Humboldt Park residents about the video and more.
Win an MBA
Well, win the opportunity to earn one, anyway. Lake Forest Graduate School of Management is running an essay contest, and the payoff for 50 contestants is a scholarship to its executive MBA program. The catch? You have to have been laid off since Oct. 31, 2009. See the site for other stipulations.
From Bridgeport to Rogers Park
Joseph Askins is riding the Red Line with a video camera, profiling each station for YoChicago. First off is Sox-35th.
Furniture Porn
West Loop-based green furniture company Strand Design recently launched an online store. Now you can buy new furniture while you sit on your old furniture. In your underwear.
The Photographic Vernacular
Square America's unfinished opus: "This Is My Country: An Epic Survey, Rendered In Photographs, Home Movies, Audio Recordings, and Other Assorted Ephemera, of Everyday Life in These United States and of the Ways and Customs of the American People c.1900-c.1976 (A Work In Progress)."
Forum on Getting Around in Uptown
46th Ward aldermanic candidates James Cappleman and Molly Phelan hold a joint forum on pedestrian, biking and transit issues in Uptown tonight at 7pm in Gill Park, 825 W. Sheridan Rd.
The Zombies Crawl Again
Pre-registration is open for the Zombie Pub Crawl through Andersonville April 30.
New Digs for EveryBlock
EveryBlock launched its first major redesign yesterday evening. Read more about it on their blog.
"Meet Me Under the Clock at Carsons?"
Ward Miller recently uncovered a historic proposal for a clock at the Carson Pirie Scott & Co. building that might have been designed by Louis Sullivan.
Chicago at Night
I'd love to see Google Maps add a night-time version of the satellite map overlay. In the meantime, there's Night Earth.
The Sounds of Chicago with Static
Website youarelistening.to offers mashups of police radio chatter and ambient music from five North American cities, including Chicago.
The Fight for the 50th
The 50th Ward aldermanic run-off is heating up between Berny Stone and Debra Silverstein. (We covered the race just before the Feb. 22 election.)
Willis Tower to Catch More Rays
North America's tallest building is about to get a little greener with the addition of energy-generating windows. To start, the unique solar panels will be installed on the south side of the 56th floor, but if all goes well, the project could expand to make the iconic structure a towering urban solar farm.
Good Clean Muddy Fun
The Mud Queens of Chicago wrestle tonight at the Viaduct Theater; A.V. Club profiles the wrestlers. UPDATE: And check out our Mud Queens feature in Tailgate.
A Chicagoan in Japan
Our own Sheila Burt filed a touching report of life after the earthquake and tsunami in the small Japanese town where she's currently teaching.
Final Farewell
The closest Chicago had to local teams in the NCAA Basketball Tournament-- Illinois and Notre Dame -- both got knocked out Sunday.
Chicago Rocks Austin
Have you been following our coverage of the SXSW Music Festival in Transmission? It's all collected here -- stay tuned as Lisa White wraps up the last couple days of the fest.
An Evil "MacGyver" is on the Prowl
Well, maybe it's more like mischievous kids are making a scene in an Uptown alley.
Super Size My Marathon
A Palatine man ran today's Los Angeles Marathon in an impressive two hours and 36 minutes. His secret? He ate nothing but McDonald's for the last 30 days.
Deep Trouble
Chronic sewage overflow problems with Chicago's Deep Tunnel have prompted the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency to launch an investigation.
"I Love Tiny Tim. He's My Favorite Singer."
Probably the cutest thing you'll see all day. The late Tiny Tim's latest album, as reviewed by Clara Ware and illustrated by her and her dad Chris for Roctober.
All that Greenery
A recent urban planning competition centered around Chicago's "Emerald Necklace," its boulevard system. The winner instead imagined an emerald constellation. [via]
Digging Up Gacy Victims
The possibility that more victims of John Wayne Gacy are buried in and around a Northwest Side apartment building has gained more attention thanks to an investigative report that implies a CPD cover-up in the late 1990s. The Cook County Sheriff's Department is considering reopening the case.
Innocence Project Prof Under Fire
Northwestern has removed Professor David Protess, head of the Medill Innocence Project, from teaching an investigative reporting class in the spring quarter amid allegations of mishandling of evidence in one of the project's wrongful conviction cases. Students are protesting.
When Gunne Sax Dresses Terrorized the Earth
The All Things Edwin G. Foreman High School tumblr is running some amusing, washed-out snapshots of 1970s life around the Belmont Cragin neighborhood. Help them identify the subjects!
No Lame Duck
Mayor Daley isn't spending his last months in office just sitting around. He's headed to China to try to draw new business to Chicago, and is still lobbying for his high-speed train to O'Hare.
Typographers & World Travelers
Both will dig Nancy McCabe's typographic world map, for sale on Etsy.
Lots more than Comics
The Chicago Comic & Entertainment Expo starts today, and features everyone from Svengoolie to Rick Bayless to Eliza Dushku. Comics Alliance has some suggestions of "best and weirdest panels" to check out if you're going.
Regenstein Romances
Apparently not satisfied with LikeALittle (previously), UofC students have created UChicago Hookups, "where fun comes to thrive." [via]
Help Students Stay in School
Umoja, a non-profit working to reduce student dropout rates in North Lawndale and nearby communities, holds its annual Spring Fling fundraiser tonight at the River East Art Center
Free Support Groups for Those Affected by Disasters in Japan
A team of mental health professionals have organized support groups for Japanese communities in Chicago and suburbs in response to the recent earthquake and related events. The support groups are offered at no charge and will run for six weeks at eight locations in Chicago, Evanston, Oak Park, Schaumburg and Wheaton.
Rooting Out Licentious License Plates
The Sun-Times goes behind the scenes with the crew who determines which personalized license plates are acceptable.
Flatley Falls Flat in 3D
In case you were wondering on this fine St. Patrick's Day, Lord of the Dance 3D isn't what it's cracked up to be.
Taking it Off Takes Off
The Windy City Burlesque Fest kicks off with a free show at Hydrate tonight. Details in Slowdown.
Racing Technologies in a Blizzard
We mentioned it last year, but the Atlantic digs deeper into the first car race in America and finds an interesting angle: it was also pitted gas versus electric. The magazine shares a first-hand published account of the race, too.
Muti Recovers, Stumps for the Arts from the Italian Stage
Riccardo Muti, the CSO's music director, is now well enough that he was able to take the stage in Italy and argue for the arts. Given his recovery, it looks like this April is finally on track.
Sears, Roebuck and Co. in its Third Century
After surviving everything from urbanization and the re-specialization of the retail market, Sears is struggling to find its niche today. Changing Gears headed out into the street and into offices to consider its future.
RIP James Tyree
Jim Tyree, chairman and CEO of Mesirow Financial and chairman of the Sun-Times Media Group, died yesterday after a battle with stomach cancer. The Sun-Times has multiple stories, including tributes from Obama, Daley and others; Tribune offered a substantial obituary; and Ron May eulogizes him as a champion for Chicago's tech and media community.
Sexual Assault Task Force
We've mentioned several of the projects that the Chicago Justice Project has begun, but this newest one gives me hope. They'll be collecting information from three different city departments and offering suggestions on how to improve the amount and quality of data related to felony sex crimes. Since they're encouraging transparency, the membership list is public, and quite impressive. (Thanks, Veronica!)
Expressing Our Condolences
The Consulate General of Japan at Chicago is, of course, coordinating donations to the relief efforts, but it is also opening the doors at its Japan Information Center to those wishing to express sympathies to victims of the earthquake in a condolence book.
Nuclear Decision-Making
While the front page was running stories about the Japanese nuclear plant failure, the Trib sports section yesterday ran a story about how the fishing is good at the lake next to the Braidwood Generating Station in suburban Godley. (Thanks, Tim!)
theWit-O-Vision
theWit Chicago needs a correspondent for the second season of their "Witisodes" web series. The correspondent, in exchange for covering going-on around the city, will be compensated with a food and drink stipend, some free stays at the hotel, and $150 (per episode?). Interested applicants need only make a 60- to 90-second video to apply. Deadline is March 24. Click here for more details.
The United Midwest
Local folks Busy Beaver Button Co. and Ohio design firm Northcoast Zeitgeist team up to help Wisconsin protesters get their message out in style.
Lawsuit Alleges Discrimination in Google Apps for Education
Northwestern and its partnership with Google to provide email and other services for its students is targeted in a lawsuit alleging the applications are inaccessible to students with vision impairments and constitute discrimination.
So Much for the Villa Taj
The Villa Taj, a 45,000-square-foot suburban home that hasn't sold since 2009 was flooded by about 6 million gallons of water in the last few weeks, leaving the building deemed "unsafe" by local authorities.
Uncovering Illinois' Contentious Mining History
WTTW11 features Chicago-based filmmaker Greg Boozell and his 2001 documentary about the closing of the Marissa coal mine, as well as his recent project on mining industry labor relations in Illinois.
Adidas Turns Spotlight on Derrick Rose
Sportswear-maker Adidas has assembled a star-studded lineup for its largest marketing campaign ever. Chicago native and Bulls guard Derrick Rose made the cut. [via]
Tailor Made For March
Feeling left out of the March Madness excitement, Loyola fans? Celebrate a more glorious era in your school's basketball history with this T-shirt honoring Loyola's 1963 NCAA champions. Bonus street cred: They played a big role integrating college athletics, three years before the famed Texas Western champions of 1966.
Living in the South Loop? Perhaps You're "Sloopin"
So claims the blog by the same name, which recently surveyed retail development news in the area.
Urban Reflections of Transportation Technology
BLDGBLOG's recent interview with Greg Lindsay identifies Chicago as an exemplar of a city that reflects its railroad heritage, in contrast to contemporary cities which may soon be direct responses to their airports.
Writing for the Reader ... Again
Believe it or not, the Reader has another personnel switcheroo in the works; this time, Mick Dumke will be returning to the weekly after a year at the Chicago News Cooperative.
The Queen of Soul Visits the Bulls
GB flickr pool contributor swanksalot photographed Aretha Franklin taking some photographs of her own at last nights' Bulls game.
The All-Beef Fame of Chicago Hot Dogs
Speaking of Chicago foods in elsewhere in the country, a Missouri couple smitten by the flavors of Chicago hot dogs decided to open a Chicago-style hot dog restaurant in Holden, Missouri. So, you know, the next time you're in Holden, you're all set.[via]
Get to the Museum Campus Later than Usual
This week the Shedd switched its hours to its spring schedule, and next week will bring a special round of 8pm closings. If water isn't your thing, Adler After Dark should keep you busy on Thursday from 6-10pm.
Something to Write in One's Journal
Coudal's Field Notes is sponsoring Ben Saunders as he tries to reach the Geographic North Pole on foot and without support, and he's gunning for the speed record while doing it. You can follow his journey on his website.
A Proposal for Making Lakeview More Livable
Lee Bey has a short preview of the new Lakeview Area Master Plan the Lakeview Chamber of Commerce is releasing tonight.
Oh, Blago, Where Did You Go?
WLS is doing its part to bring the former governor back into the spotlight by hiring him as the guest host of their morning show tomorrow.
Calling All High School Kids
Chicago loves student design contests. The latest one will feature a CPS high school student's design on 10,000 reusable bags to be handed out at farmers markets. Here's some info from one of the sponsors.
Three Million Square Feet is Never Enough
Bill Davies, the developer who bought the Old Main Post Office at auction is in negotiations to purchase the nearby Sugar House, which could be demolished to make way for a new ramp network for Congress Parkway. The word is he's looking at other property too.
Public Housing Residents Still Resisting CHA
The Chicago Reporter reminds us that while most high-profile Chicago Housing Authority developments have been demolished, many public housing residents are still fighting to live in the remaining units.
Yes, Dispatcher, I'll Send You a Photo of the Scene
Chicago is the first city actively accepting digital photographs and video via 911. The city has received 40 images so far, mainly of property damage.
I Wonder if Houdini Ever Had to Deal with This?
The latest in controversies: The Robert Morris University competitive dance team performed in straitjackets, offending a mental health advocate. No word on the banging your head issue, or how metal health may, in fact, drive you mad.
New MAS Context Issue Released: "Network"
The new issue of MAS Context, "Network," was released yesterday and already has a shout-out from archinect.
Settle That Fish Down
Local artist (and friend of GB) Phineas X. Jones has crafted a new print to help raise funds for earthquake relief in Japan.
Beware of the Lyric Opera Patrons?
One Lyric patron was allegedly so upset that he was unable to enter "Carmen" while it was underway that he shoved a female usher twice, among other unpleasantries.
The Indirectness of Direct Influence
WBEZ takes a look at the unintended consequences of ballot initiatives.
60614: Life by the Tracks
A few years ago National Geographic dispatched some photographers to 60614 to produce this vignette of life along the L.
Procuring Local Delicacies in a Foreign Land
It seems New Yorkers are having a hard time finding ingredients to make a proper Chicago-style hot dog.
Got a Dispute? Let the Interwebs Decide
Chicago-based entrepreneurs Kevin Wielgus and Angelo Rago have launched JabberJury.com, a free online forum for settling all manner of debates. [via]
How's That for Good Timing?
Just as the world is getting pretty nervous about nuclear energy, the World Nuclear Fuel Cycle annual meeting will be held in Chicago at the beginning of April.
3.14 Equals Pie
Pie deals all over the place in honor of Pie Day. Morton's and many others are offering slices of pie for $3.14, and Hoosier Mama is both staying open late and borrowing the Gaztro-Wagon to sell around the city (find'em via twitter).
Also, this Saturday, March 19, Hoosier Mama is teaming up with Drive-Thru to hold its second annual scavenger hunt. Get details here!
Fight the Empire at McCormick Place
Local plush maker Steff Bomb's created a soft-yet-deadly Han Solo blaster, so well-made any intrepid hero would be proud to have it at their side. Pick up one of these limited edition stuffed sidearms this weekend at C2E2: 2301 South Lake Shore Drive, Booth #1026, 2pm-3pm. Did I mention it comes with a holster?
Meower in the Tower
Quasimodo, or "Modo" for short, is the Chapel Cat at the U of C's Rockefeller Memorial Chapel.
Early Voting Begins in Runoff Elections
If you live in a ward that's undergoing a runoff election, you can head to the early voting locations starting today.
Donate Organs by Phone
Donate for Life Illinois has launched a mobile version of their website, making it easier for you to donate organs while on the go.
...And Their Weather Stinks, Too
Bernardo Hees, CEO of Burger King, said during a recent visit to U of C, "The food is terrible and the women are not very attractive [in England]. Here in Chicago the food is good, and you are known for good-looking women." Not surprisingly, the Brits are pissed.
The Future of North Lake Shore Drive
Ideas for the long-term overhaul of the northern section of Lake Shore Drive range from reworking the S-curve at Oak Street to consolidating as many as three interchanges.
"Will Work for Free"
The ads that University of Illinois at Chicago Graduate Assistants answered didn't say that, but they should have. Due to a change in tax law, GA's at University of Illinois are having their pay withheld until the taxes of their tuition wavers are paid. This means they work for free. GA's at Champaign-Urbana were given grants to cover this difference. GA's at UIC were told to take out loans. Don't think this is fair? Say so.
Leap Ahead
FYI, Daylight Savings Time begins Sunday at 2am. You'll lose an hour but gain so much more.
United States of X: Cycling Edition
The United States Bicycle Route Map from the Adventure Cycling Association includes several local routes -- and indirectly leads to the League of Illinois Bicyclists. [via]
Scientology Protest Tomorrow
You may (or may not) want to steer clear of Michigan and Wacker around noon this Saturday: Anonymous activist organization Anonymous is planning a protest against Scientology, marking L. Ron Hubbard's birthday.
Tiger Blood Will Fill the Streets
Charlie Sheen's train of crazy will be stopping at the Chicago Theater on April 3 as part of his one-man show, "My Violent Torpedo of Truth."
DIY Refuses to Die: Chicago Zine Fest Year 2
Check out our new feature story in Book Club, a weekly interview and essay leading up to the Chicago Zine Fest -- get educated, get some zines, get that much more out of the celebration of independent publishing.
Restoring the Sights and Sounds of Illinois Courthouses
The Chicago-based Driehouse Foundation is working to restore downstate courthouses, including the Logan County Courthouse, which hasn't rung its bells in decades.
Not Pi Day, But A Close Approximation
The Chicago Nerd Social Club celebrates Pi Day this weekend on March 13, which is one day before the official holiday (they're calling it Almost Pi(e) Day). Bakers can bring their home-baked pies for competition, trivia buffs can try competing for cash prizes, and math geeks can compete in recalling the most digits of the irrational number. For full details see Slowdown, or the event's page at the Chicago Nerds Website.
Another Conspiracy Theory Averted
Republicans on the House Financial Services Committee feared that President Obama interfered in the FDIC's decision to try to save ShoreBank, so they asked the FDIC inspector to investigate. No wrongdoing was found.
The Grid: Congress Conducts El at Cal's
Today we release the second feature in GB's short film series The Grid. "Congress Conducts El at Cal's" explores the construction congestion at Congress Parkway through the music and activity at Cal's, a nearby hangout and liquor store.
Put Away Your Winter Coat
...and get ready for the foods of spring. We'll show you how to prepare in this week's Drive-Thru feature.
Pulaski vs. Crawford
In A/C, John Greenfield shares his walk all the way up Pulaski Road, which once was known as Crawford Avenue.
YouTubeniversity
Columbia College and USC have teamed up with YouTube to create "Creator Institutes" to train students in digital media. To be one of the 10 students in the YouTube-Columbia College Creator Institute this summer, apply here.
Ice and the Law, Surprisingly Not I.C.E. and the Law
The state is launching serious legal action against the allegedly shady world of the local ice industry.
Earwax Re-opening?
According to their Facebook page, yes - under the guidance of former Landmark Grill chef Kurt Guzowski, and with a slightly retooled menu.
Planes, Trains & Automobiles
The 1950s were an important era for transportation in Chicago.
A plane crash at Midway, 1955:
A Rock Island Line promotional film from 1950:
Street scenes in the 1950s:
Beer Pong Meets High Design
Burr Ridge-based designer Joseph Mollo has created a sleek, Poplar-finished beer pong table now available on Etsy.
Memorial Show with No Art
Painter Calvin Jones stored some of his artwork at the South Side Community Art Center for years. Now the center wants to do a retrospective, but his family won't let them show his work.
Yesterday's News Now
Chicagology is a collection of historical photographs (oddly, with blue skies added to them) and moments from the city's history, written when those moments were fresh. [via]
Walgreens Beer Taste Test-off
In one corner, A.V. Club Chicago got Goose Island's Greg Hall and Jared Rouben to try out Big Flats lager, Walgreens' new house beer. In the other corner, Time Out put together a taster panel of its own.
Thermosless
Yes, Threadless and Thermos have partnered up.
Do Kick the Water
Sketch comedy team Blewt! is hoping to get its improv game show "Don't Spit the Water" on TV. They've got WCIU to agree to run a pilot, and they've set up a Kickstarter to help pay for the filming.
Chasing Tornadoes at the MSI
Tornado Alley, the IMAX film shot by Sean Casey of "Storm Chasers" fame, will make its world premiere at the Museum of Science and Industry on Friday. The Tornado Intercept Vehicle 2 is even present for the event.
Startup News: Buttons for Groupon, Money for GrubHub
Groupon is in talks with cash register manufacturers to add a Groupon button, making it easier for retailers to handle groupons. Meanwhile, GrubHub raised $20 million in funding in its quest to be "the next OpenTable."
Share This
Edelman Digital shares some social media milestones.
13 Miles of Aisles
The NY Times tells you all you want to know about the International Home and Housewares Show.
Little Gets Bigger
Tired of reading stories about how the recession is killing America? Then go read about Blue Buddha Boutique, the little business that could.
Turning on Red
The Parking Ticket Geek shares news of a new effort to restrict red light cameras.
1001 Afternoons with 007
Ben Hecht, who as a Daily News columnist wrote 1001 Afternoons in Chicago, went on to be a prolific Hollywood screenwriter. Turns out he wrote an early script for Casino Royale, and it's been sitting in the Newberry Library.
United States of X: Passport Edition
More than half of Illinoisans can get stamped at customs when we travel abroad.
Capturing Hizzoner
Photographer Art Shay shared more photos from his archives over on Chicagoist today -- this time the lens is trained on the Honorable Richard J. Daley.
No Longer a Death Penalty State
Gov. Quinn signed into law a ban on the death penalty in Illinois today, making the moratorium George Ryan began 11 years ago permanent.
The Old Wards
Continuing on the history lesson this week (previously: 1, 2), A Look at Cook includes Chicago ward maps from 1870 through 1930.
Time Vortexes are Funny Things
Speaking of @MayorEmanuel, Dan Sinker was on "The Colbert Report" last night talking about it. And just the night before, ex-gov Rod Blagojevich made an appearance in what appeared to be Lincoln Square's Welles Park, which was standing in for Rockford.
Quaxelrod Mounted on the Wall
Saved for posterity by Josh Larios, @MayorEmanuel's tweets, along with contextual replies.
Fewer Dead Trees
The Chicago Climate Action Plan aims to help do away with unwanted phone books: Sign up to keep them from landing on your doorstep.
Heaven for Non-Christians?
Theology professor Scot McKnight of North Park University (and his blog) is featured in a NY Times piece about the uproar generated by an evangelical pastor suggesting that non-Christians like Gandhi may not eternally burn in hell.
Mirrored Marketing
There's a new high-tech frontier for advertising at O'Hare: animated video ads on the bathroom mirrors. [via]
Art on Wheels
If you biked through the winter, you deserve to celebrate -- and even if you didn't, the 14th Annual Bike Winter Art Show, opening this Friday, promises a good time. Chicago Freak Bike makers will be on hand to demonstrate some of their delightfully impractical creations, and more than 50 artists' work will be on display. Check out Slowdown for more details.
Just Pawns in the Game
Pawn Works Sticker Club hooks you up with artist-designed vinyl stickers to place wherever you like. They're working on a storefront space, but in the meantime you can buy stickers online.
How's the Path?
The Active Transportation Alliance has started a new Twitter feed just perfect for cyclists who want to know what to expect on the lakefront paths. Follow @activetransLFT for the latest information, or send them your own observations to help out others.
Transitional HMTL
Rahm Emanuel's transition team now has a website.
Streets of Old
Peruse UIC's collection of IDOT Chicago Traffic Photographs from the 1930s and you'll find shots of Lake Shore Drive under construction, Sheridan and Irving Park and a very snowy South Shore and 67th.
The $12,500 Groupon
Rolling Meadows-based Ajilitee offered $25,000 worth of IT consulting for half off on Groupon; it sold out this morning. Fast Company gets the backstory.
Watch in Perpetual Beta
Life in Perpetual Beta, a documentary about "the ways in which technology has/is/will change the ways in which we think about ourselves as individuals and a society," is now streaming online, on demand.
Our 41° 51' 0" N Sister Cities
Ever wonder what European cities are even with Chicago latitudinally? Wonder no more.
Mapping History
Apartment site domu has put together a cool Chicago history map. One of the guys who worked on the project is on Reddit discussing how it happened.
RIP Ron Helizon
Ron "the Polish Princess" Helizon, an icon of the gay rights movement in Chicago, passed away over the weekend. He was 65. Here's an interview with him from 2007.
GoogleMap Gapers Block
Google is taking another stab at offering real-time traffic info on Google Maps, with Chicago as a test. Check it out here
Argonne and the U of C Create New Major Initiative
After years of resistance to adding another professional program, the U of C is collaborating with the Argonne National Laboratory to create an engineering program -- only this engineering program is molecular engineering.
Recognize These Thieves?
On Saturday at Lincoln Hall, a couple of no-goodniks walked off with some laptops that were definitely not theirs. After a few days of asking the guys to come forward, pictures have now been posted of the theft in action. If you know them, let Lincoln Hall know. There's a reward in it for you. (At least one coat, with iPod and phone, was stolen too.)
Bright Spot in a Bad Ad
Local lip sync legend Keenan Cahill starts off a new Smartwater commercial starring Jennifer Aniston that The Daily What calls one of the worst ever.
Chiditarod in Pictures
If you missed Chiditarod this weekend, never fear, because the cameras didn't. Take a gander at Chicagoist, Refinery 29, ChicagoNow, flickr, YouTube and of course our own in Tailgate.
Horses & Other Bodies in Motion
Eadweard Muybridge debuted the first motion picture device, the zoopraxiscope, at the 1893 Colombian Exposition. Read more about Muybridge, including his now lesser-known, racier stuff. [via]
United States of X: Happiness Edition
The New York Times mapped the Gallup-Healthways Well-Being Index gauging Americans' opinion of their quality of life. They've mapped the results according to congressional districts; Chicago's range from 61 to 69. (The highest I spotted was a 73.)
Too Close for Comfort
There are registered sex offenders living all over the city -- and many live closer to children than the law allows.
Unblinking Eyes
Two incredibly random blogs: All my future ex-lovers and So Bad It's Rad.
Bazaar Proposition
The Vintage Bazaar has announced its 2011 schedule, and is accepting vendor applications for its May show.
Chicago at SXSW
Even if you're not going, you'll still want to peruse our massive list of the 90+ local acts and dozens more from nearby who are performing at the SXSW Music Festival in Austin next week.
Saving a Lot, Gaining a Lot
A new grocery store chain that recently opened in several south side food desert communities gave away a bag of free groceries to residents and the assurance that fresh, affordable food is no longer miles away; we cover the neighborhood response in this week's Drive-Thru feature.
Award-Winning Audio
Devin Katayama, whose interview with Sierra Leone refugees now living in Chicago was featured in A/C last week, is the winner of this year's Studs Terkel Scholarship from the Community Media Workshop.
It's All Up in the Air
When it comes to flights landing at O'Hare and Midway, the O'Hare's planes usually get priority. Midway and Southwest Airlines are testing a new navigation system that'll hopefully eliminate some of the delays. Meanwhile, Chicago Rockford International still hopes to take some business away from both Chicago airports.
"Some of the most honest music I ever heard in my life"
The Guardian takes the release of a bunch of Chicago house records as a cue to review Chicago's influence on house music in the Midwest and in the UK.
EmanueLEGO
Our mayor-elect in LEGO portrait form, by Dubi Kaufmann. More here.
Chicago Makes Google Transparent
Brad Spirrison notes that the Google Transparency Report is produced out of Chicago by a team led by Brian Fitzpatrick, who also created the Data Liberation Front.
Further Fucksaw Fallout
The president of Northwestern has announced an investigation into the motorized sex toy (aka "fucksaw") demonstration in a recent human sexuality class. (Previously.) Meanwhile, Rachel Rabbit White got the other side of the story from the people who put on the demo.
Get Off at 22nd Street
What, you don't know where that is? That's because 22nd has been Cermak Road since 1933. Someone should probably tell IDOT.
Signs of Spring
Scooter's Frozen Custard opens today at 2pm, which chocolate peanut butter as the daily special.
What is "I got lucky"?
And speaking of John Tolva, he got to play a round of Jeopardy against Watson, and even won a round.
Planning Going Forward
CityForward, which we've posted about before, gets some attention from WSJ's Digits blog.
Honey Badger Don't Care
The internets are leaking: Jay Ryan made a slikscreen print of a recent viral video. (Thanks, Su!)
Stopping the R-word
The derogatory word "retard" is used 24,000 times a day on Twitter. The Social Challenge is a locally based effort hoping to change that.
History and Birthday Cake
Chicago turns 174 today -- celebrate with free cake and performances by the Tony Do Rosario Trio, The Latin School Band, and a Native American drum band at the Chicago History Center.
Navy Pier Reimagined
Time Out focuses on the tourist attraction everyone loves to hate, Navy Pier.
"Flash Mobs" Gone Wrong
CBS2 reports on a recent rash of shoplifting cases in which groups of teenagers descend on a store, make a scene, and escape with merchandise. The attacks are allegedly organized via Twitter.
A Pain in the Glass
Sun-Times photographer Tom Cruze got a little too involved in the action on the ice at the Blackhawks' game on February 20th, and his fellow photographer Nuccio DiNuzzo caught the moment in a snap. Like a true pro, he was back at work after some quick medical attention.
Vocalo.org Switching Stations
Vocalo.org has begun switching to a "music and spoken-word content" format.
Give Wal-Mart a Chance?
The Chicago Journal takes a look at the Walmart Neighborhood Market moving into the West Loop, and thinks we should give it a chance.
Sheen's a Cubs Fan?
In the midst of all the weirdness, it appears Charlie Sheen owns vintage Wrigley Field seats and likes Chicago-style hot dogs. (You may also want to read this.) UPDATE: Actually, Sheen just ate at a place called The Infield (Thanks, Brismi!).
City of Big Bones
What's worse, Chicago? Being called "big-boned", or being the cattle to mayor-elect Rahm Emanuel's herding dog? The New York Times sounds like the best frenemy we ever had.
From Cobra to Belly Dancer
Sienna Miller has reportedly signed on to play a Chicago housewife who runs off to Vegas with her belly dance instructor to enter a dance competition in an upcoming film. Should be interesting to see if she pulls off the accent.
A City So Beautiful
Photographer Jeff Trost took some stunning sunset panoramas of the skyline from near the Adler Planetarium.
Saving Grace
The five-minute grace period on parking tickets is set to expire April 1 -- but Ald. Scott Waguespack has introduced an amendment to make the ordinance permanent.
There Might be a New Broadcast Museum After All
The new home of the Museum of Broadcast Communications is finally moving closer to completion thanks to a $6 million grant from the state that stipulates major construction should be complete by April 30.
The Long Bet on Better Education
UofC economics professor John List received some attention for his $10 million experiment tracking 600-plus students from pre-school into adulthood to gauge the impact of different education practices.
@MayorEmanuel Hooks Up Young Chicago Authors
Young Chicago Authors is $12,000 richer thanks to Rahm Emanuel making good on his promise to donate $5,000 to the charity of the author of @MayorEmanuel's choice. Causes.com matched him, and Roe Conn and Richard Roeper each kicked in a grand during the meeting of the Emanuels last night on their show.
This Year's Chicago's 7
Yesterday, Preservation Chicago released its list of the seven most threatened buildings in 2011. This year's range from the North Pullman Historic District to skyscrapers, and includes two buildings with university connections: the Prentice Women's Hospital and the Chicago Theological Seminary.
Get Kind of Blue
There's a Miles Davis Festival on right now.
Miracle Berry
After transforming dinner at MOTO, Homaro Cantu's star has steadily risen. Now he believes he has made a stride in his most personal project, the modest task of combating world hunger, and it all comes down to a berry.
An Old-Fashioned Shave
EthicallyEngineered offers a shaving kit in a box made out of wood reclaimed from old tenement houses. [via]
Mounting Controversy, Indeed
A popular Human Sexuality class at Northwestern was treated to a live demonstration of a sexual device (the "f*cksaw") last Monday. Some are not amused, but the school's administration has stayed quiet on the issue, claiming that watching a woman get aroused in front of 600 students falls under "the broad range of academic freedoms."
The Emanuels Meet
Dan Sinker, the man behind @MayorEmanuel, will meet the real Rahm Emanuel on WLS' Roe & Roeper show tonight at 5pm. If you prefer video with your audio, NBC5 will stream the show live on its website. UPDATE: Sinker tweets that he will also be appearing on the Colbert Report next Tuesday.
From Tron to My Little Pony
The Neo-Futurists are celebrating their 10th anniversary of their "filmfest" (staged readings of bad movie scripts), and are planning on re-mounting the most popular titles from previous years. See the Neos' blog for information on how to vote for your favorites!
Verily, He Tweets
"'Twas born to the House of Lorraine in 1478 in the town of Bar-le-Duc of northern France. Mine occupation is court royal to Louis XII, a fine king indeed." And now Robert the Courtier tweets about the Art Institute's new exhibition of art in Renaissance France.
Stimulating Drinks
Stimulus Social Club meets again tonight at Public House. Your $10 goes to Multiple Solutions, the junior board of the MS Society -- and gets you complimentary appetizers and a round of drinks.
New in the Hoodr
Neighborhoodr is a nationwide network of city Tumblr blogs; Chicago's went live yesterday.
Mellowing With Age
Twenty-eight years after his infamous rant about Wrigley Field fans (e.g., "Eighty-five percent of the fuckin' world is working. The other 15 come out here.") former Cubs manager Lee Elia can laugh about his place among the great meltdowns in baseball history.
From Sierra Leone to Chicago
Mohamed and Fatima no longer shovel snow into garbage bags to throw out. Hear more about their adjustment to their new home in A/C.
The Art of Winfield House
Long-time patrons of the Chicago art scene Ambassador Louis B. Susman and his wife, Marjorie, have merged their love of art and their roles as the U.S. representatives to Britain with an American art collection anyone would envy.
Facebook is For Winners
Two contests on Facebook offer to give some lucky Chicagoans some valuable and memorable prizes: you could win free rent for a year from apartment-hunting site domu, or luck out with a ride on the Mercy Home float in the St. Patrick's Day Parade.
More or Fewer Neighbors?
The Tribune Apps team created a Google map overlay showing the percentage rise or drop in population for Chicago and the region. They launched another one tracking mayoral votes by precinct today.
TV about Movies, on the Web
Gene Siskel and Roger Ebert's "At the Movies" -- as well as its predecessors, "Opening Soon at a Theater Near You" and "Sneak Previews," and its successor, "Siskel & Ebert" -- are collected on Siskel&Ebert.org for your viewing pleasure. [via]
Weis Leaving Early
Despite saying he wants to stay in Chicago, Police Superintendent Jody Weis is allegedly leaving his post today, when his contract expires, rather than sticking around till May when Mayor-Elect Rahm Emanuel takes over and fires him. Keep an eye on Second City Cop for officer reactions.
Baba Marta to Arrive Next Year
Baba Marta, (aka Grandma Marta, a Bulgarian character who changes her mood quickly, just as March changes weather rapidly) will get a Martenitsa tree next year. Bulgarians living in Chicago, home to the largest community in North America, are sharing red and white tassels with each other today to wish each other health, fortune and happiness. Next year, Bulgarians will be able to tie their martenitsas to a tree to welcome Spring. In case you can read Bulgarian, check Daleche.com created a run by a local resident.
Hot or Not Revived
This month's Chicago magazine features their picks for the 50 most beautiful Chicagoans (including a couple suburbanites). Over on WindyCitizen, you can vote for who you think is most beautiful.
Chicago's Hottest Spots
If by hottest, you mean deadliest, that is. Some light poles, fences and sidewalk grates throughout the city are electrified.
Then & Now
The flickr pool Looking Into the Past is full of photos of vintage prints placed into their modern day settings -- including a bunch in Chicago. (Related.)
Pancakes for Dinner
We're a little late to the news, but IHOP is offering a free "short stack" of pancakes to all diners today; now you have dinner plans.
Walk to the Train
Carfree Chicago lists the city's least walkable CTA stops; unsurprisingly, they're all on the South and West sides. [via]
Your Water Supply
Have some time today? Explore WaterLife, an interactive documentary about the Great Lakes,"the last great supply of fresh drinking water on earth." [via]
Getting Dirty
Dirty Six-Thirty, a web series set in Chicago.
6 Minutes, 40 Seconds of Depth
PechaKucha Night Chicago returns to Martyrs' tonight with a lineup that includes activist and education reformer Bill Ayers, human beatbox Yuri Lane, architecture mapper Chris Botham, architects from the Studio Gang, spoken word artist Kevin Coval and more. Each get 20 seconds to talk about 20 slides of their choosing, and it's bound to be interesting.
I'm Sorry, Consumer. I'm Afraid I Can't do That.
Meet suburban-based Kraft's "Meal Planning Solution," a kiosk that will be able to recognize your face and give you shopping suggestions based on your shopping history. In the process, it'll also provide recipes, free samples ... and "anonymously" collect data.
