Tylenol Murders 30 Years Later
Chicago Magazine profiles the Tylenol Murders of 30 years ago. The crime is still unsolved.
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
Wednesday, May 15
Merge
Monthly Archive
September 2012
Voter Registration Deadline is Coming
Have you registered to vote yet? The deadline is October 9, and there's a wealth of information on the Chicago Board of Elections website--including information on voting early, should you be busy on November 6.
My Mellow, My Mellow
Chicagoist describes Kids These Days' new song "Don't Harsh My Mellow" as having a "Smells Like Teen Spirit"-as-set-in-a-CPS-school vibe. Apt comparison, complete with quiet-loud structure.
The Exit Interview
Claire Zulkey interviews departing "Afternoon Shift" host Steve Edwards as he prepares to begin his new job at U of C's Institute of Politics.
15 Years of Pissing Off Drivers
Tonight's Critical Mass isn't just any old traffic-clogging fun ride. It's also the 15th anniversary of the movement in Chicago.
Hack the City Green
Have an interest in data and sustainability? The Center for Neighborhood Technology is hosting an Urban Sustainability Hackathon next weekend, Oct. 5-7. Jump in and lend a hand.
It's Scary Out There
WBEZ producer Robin Amer shares the five scariest things she learned from Chicago's new Pedestrian Plan during today's edition of the Morning Shift. "As a pedestrian...you can be doing everything right and still be hit and killed. Which I find terrifying, frankly," says Amer.
The "Walking Chicago Encyclopedia"
NewCity profiles Tim Samuelson, the cultural historian of Chicago, and learns how he got there.
Cookie Issues
New "SNL" castmember Aidy Bryant stars in "Doctor Opera," a teaser video for the Lyric Opera's upcoming production of Hansel & Gretel. (Thanks, James!)
You can get 50 percent off tickets to the show with the code "DrOpera."
Miami at Midnight
Everything is Terrible presents Miami Connection, a 1987 martial artsploitation masterpiece, as the Music Box's midnight movie tonight and tomorrow. Your powers are useless against the ninja!
The Runway 5k
We don't often post about 5k runs, but most 5ks don't let you run on an O'Hare runway. Plus, it benefits the Wounded Warrior Project.
BOO!
Facets Cinematheque is bringing another session of Facets Night School to their screening room for the next few Saturdays (and a couple Fridays). This 12th session of the cult film screening series is a collection of 1970s and 1980s home video horrors, from Seytan (aka "Turkish Exorcist") to Slumber Party Massacre. Full details and advance tickets available at the Facets website.
Occupy Arrests Thrown Out
Associate Judge Thomas Donnelly ruled the mass arrests of Occupy Chicago protesters to be unconstitutional in a 37-page ruling today. The charges following the arrests of 92 protesters for violating curfew in Grant Park were thrown out.
Writing Out of Addiction
Bloomberg Businessweek interviews Srinivas "Cheeni" Rao, a former homeless drug addict from the South Side who wrote a memoir, In Hanuman's Hands, and is now in business school.
New Fare Cards Coming
Starting next summer, CTA and Pace will begin switching over to Ventra cards, a smart card that can also be used as a prepaid debit card. By 2014, Ventra will have replaced all existing cards, and most trains and buses will be able to handle (microchip-equipped) personal credit/debit cards and cell phones as means of payment.
Kickstarting Right Now
A movie about Mormons, an archive of improvised music and small-batch giardiniera are among the projects on Gapers Block's curated Kickstarter page right now. Give a hand.
Even More MAS
MAS Studio's been busy in the last few months preparing for two events: It just launched the newest issue of MAS Context, Visibility, and is hosting its second public design symposium, MAS Context: Analog, on October 13.
Visit All the Museums!
Smithsonian's annual Museum Day is this Saturday! Get free admission to more than a dozen Chicago museums (and more in the suburbs) when you register for a ticket.
Caught On Camera
Social Media Week is taking place in Chicago and we briefly caught one interesting groovster at the Silent House Party at Pioneer Court yesterday afternoon reinventing the grapevine. Chicago's got moves.
Take a Field Trip
Atlas Obscura is hosting Field Trip Day on Saturday, Sept. 29, and the local event begins at 3pm in Quimby's. Intrigued? Sign up.
"The men who made comics worth caring about"
Rolling Stone held a roundtable discussion with Chris Ware, Dan Clowes and Gilbert and Jaime Hernandez. [via]
Fighting for a Signal
CHIRP founder Shawn Campbell talks about the Internet Radio Fairness Act and its effects on the fledgling station's efforts to get on the airwaves. (CHIRP's in the midst of its fall pledge drive, by the way.)
Is There a Sox Game Today?
There's been a site to let you know if there's a Cubs game (so as to avoid the inevitable traffic) for a couple years. One for the White Sox is finally here.
More Lake Shore Roadwork
As if the north Lake Shore Drive repaving project and Fullerton ramp reconstruction wasn't snarling traffic enough, on Monday CDOT will begin reconstruction of the northbound on-ramp at Oak Street, at the north end of Michigan Avenue. CDOT also began work on the intersection of South Shore and 79th today. (It's not any better on the trains.)
PTA vs. PTO
The Chicago-based nonprofit National Parent Teacher Association is suing Boston-based, for-profit PTO Today for trademark infringement, false advertising and deceptive business practices.
Hawk's a Homer
White Sox announcer Hawk Harrelson is the most biased by far in the major leagues, according to new research. We coulda told them that. And of course Hawk loves it. [via]
CTA Looking for Artists
The CTA is looking for artists to create public art work for seven soon to be rehabbed North Side Red Line stations. Proposal submissions are due by 3:30pm Oct. 10. Architecture Chicago Plus has rounded up some examples of current public art on the CTA.
West Side Pete's in Trouble
Work has stopped on a new Pete's Fresh Market being built in the food desert area of East Garfield Park, after the developers allegedly received threats of violence if they didn't hand out jobs or pay a bribe. Of course, Pete's doesn't have a stellar record in worker relations themselves.
Polaroidizing Your World
There's now a Lomography store in Chicago; it's been open a little over a week, but the big grand opening party is next Thursday, Oct. 4.
Writing to Stay Alive
Students in the Columbia Links program produced Don't Shoot, I Want to Grow Up, a collection of essays reflecting on this summer's violence
The Tylenol Murders, 30 Years Later
Chicago magazine's October issue has an oral history of the Tylenol Murders in 1982, from first death to today. State prosecutors continue to work the case, and may even be close to taking it to a grand jury.
His Talk is Gonna Be Dope
Chicago Ideas Week announced yesterday that Lance Armstrong will speak at the invite-only Edison Talks on Friday, Oct. 12.
D Rose Rises
So what if these adidas commercials are made to sell basketball shoes, you still might get goosebumps.
Silencing NEIU Voices
Big changes are afoot at Northeastern Illinois University. The radio station's student staff was locked out this summer, while two popular professors have struggled with the administration.
Butch Edge
Josh Wilker of Cardboard Gods flashes backward and forward, past and present, through an unlikely baseball card.
Famous Brains for Under $10
A Chicago medical museum was allowed to scan and digitize several hundred slides of Albert Einstein's brain. And, because why not and this is the future or something, they made an interactive iPad app out of it, so you can poke around and draw on your vast knowledge of neuroscience to learn things and reach conclusions.
Contest: See Avett Brothers Friday
The Avett Brothers play Charter One Pavilion on Friday, and we have three pairs of tickets to give away!
Enter by emailing contests@gapersblock.com with your name and phone number and the subject line "Avett Bros" by 3pm today. We'll pick three winners at random. Good luck! UPDATE: We have our winners! Congrats to James V., Claire S. and Ray P.!
Music Institute Gets a Blue Woman
Jazz vocalist Tammy McCann has been named the artist in residence at the Music Institute of Chicago. She will make her debut at the Billy Strayhorn Festival Oct. 26-28.
Our Local Innovation Champion
Chicago CTO John Tolva was named a Champion of Change by the White House for his (and the City's) efforts to modernize city services and develop tools for open government.
Are Reviews Coming Too Fast?
Michael Gebert talks with members of Chicago's restaurant media scene about whether restaurant reviews are now happening too soon after a place opens. Part two here.
Resolution Allegro for CSO
A tentative agreement was reached last night in the brief CSO musicians strike. Both sides must still ratify it, but barring any last minute objections, Wednesday's performance is back on.
Porking Out
People, your bacon obsession has gotten out of hand. First you basically killed the pork belly futures desk at the Merc, now it looks like there will be a worldwide shortage next year. When will the madness end?
It's a Game, Dude
Former Blackhawks player Chris Chelios set Jay Cutler's jersey on fire last night while at Stanley's Kitchen and Tap in Old Town, referring to the Bears QB as being "nothing but a bitch." Nice.
She's Got Bony Ankles
It's never too early to start thinking about Halloween costumes. Jennifer No gives you a head start with these skeleton socks.
Where the Gangs Are
WBEZ puts the latest gang territory data from CPD on a Google Map, and compares it with locations of schools and homicides.
Zooming Way Out
The Powers of Ten was a film made in 1968 to illustrate the scale of the universe in orders of magnitude, from 10-18 to 1026 -- starting at zero from a couple picnicking in what is now Chicago's Museum Campus. (Previously.)
The Pulse of Freight
This week CMAP recently launched MetroPulse Jobs, a new site sharing research into workplace data, beginning with the freight industry.
Chicago's Top Tech
Crain's has put together its Tech 50, a list of movers and shakers in the city's technology scene. Meanwhile, Chicago mag reports on the city's tech boom.
Free Wifi & the Broadband Challenge
As of this morning, Millennium Park features free wi-fi -- the first of Emanuel's push, which plans to include all parks and public spaces in Chicago. The City is looking for everyone's help in designing the network via The Broadband Challenge.
CSO on Strike
Chicago Symphony Orchestra musicians went on strike Saturday after contract negotiations broke down over pay increases.
Breaking News: Wicker Park is Hipster, says Forbes
Forbes magazine, which deals in "information for the world's business leaders," has determined that Wicker Park is the fourth best "hipster" neighborhood in the country. Glad they let us know.
Drama in the Theaters
The Chicagoist recaps the Congress Theater/Portage Theater fiasco, and it's gotten a little ugly.
An Encore for the Bar Mitzvah Kid
Shaun Sperling, whose video of lip-syncing and dancing to Madonna's hit "Vogue" at his 1992 suburban Bar Mitzvah party made himself a You Tube sensation, got another boost: at one of her shows at United Center last week, Madge herself singled out Sperling in the crowd for a brief sing-a-long during "Like a Prayer." Madonna's publicist claims the singer randomly selected Sperling and had no knowledge of the video. You can see Sperling himself in concert this Saturday at Mary's Attic.
Another Bucket for Monsieur
At 6pm tonight, a man is going to attempt to eat everything on the menu at BadHappy Poutine Shop. You're welcome to watch, and perhaps offer him one wafer-thin mint.
Holiday Spree
The Polyphonic Spree have announced a handful of dates for their Christmas Extravaganza 2012 tour, with Chicago making the short list. They'll be at the Logan Square Auditorium on Dec 11. Tickets went on sale this morning.
From Circular File to Circling the Globe
The Reader follows the recycled paper trail from here to China and back.
Chicago's 0.1%
There are 13 Chicagoans on the Forbes 400 list of America's richest people -- but none are in the top 100. Sam Zell tops us out at #103. Meanwhile, Groupon's Eric Lefkofsky dropped off the list.
The Polonia Lifestyle
Chicago is the second largest Polish city after Warsaw, as the old saying goes (it's no longer true). Tap into the scene with Polish Social.
Face to Facebook
Social media meets real world interaction on Monday, when Social Media Week begins. There's still plenty of room in most of the events; see the schedule here.
Sox Management Shakeup?
Is White Sox GM Kenny Williams being kicked upstairs, becoming vice president of operations while his assistant GM Rick Hahn takes his place? Williams isn't confirming, but he's not exactly denying it, either. [via]
No Minis, No Golfs; Yes Mini Golf
Today is Park(ing) Day! Keep an eye out for parking spaces turned mini parks -- and consider shooting a few holes of mini-golf on Milwaukee Avenue in Avondale.
Cougar Town
According to the Sun-Times, there have been two more cougar sightings in the North Shore. And not the Courteney Cox kind, but actual mountain lions. Residents are asked to take photos if they spot one.
How Colossal Gets Built
Christopher Jobson of design blog Colossal shares how he works with LifeHacker.
Big Win for a Big Ship
The Third Coast Audio Festival announced its 2012 competition winners, and among them was "Big Ship Diary," a piece by WBEZ's Allison Swain about life on a Great Lakes freighter.
Chick-fil-A, I Thought You Were Gonna Stop Hating on the Gay Folk
If you were excited about Chick-fil-A's recent decision to stop funding anti-gay organizations in response to Alderman Proco Joe Moreno's opposition to their plans to build a second restaurant in his ward, you might want to reconsider; Chick-fil-A owner Dan Cathy tweeted a pic of a fundraiser held yesterday for an anti-gay lobbying group, and encouraged his audience to give directly to the group rather than go through Chick-fil-A's philanthropy arm, the WinShape Foundation. So the money may not be coming directly from Chick-fil-A, but the sentiment is?
Get a Taste of Bollywood
The Chicago South Asian Film Festival kicks off tonight with the US premiere of Heroine, with one of its stars, Lillete Dubey, in attendance for a Q&A. The festival continues through Sunday.
Heroine - Trailer from CSAFF on Vimeo.
Skilling's 10-Year Forecast
WGN signed chief meteorologist Tom Skilling to a new 10-year contract, ensuring many more years of weather geekery.
That Cubs BJ Guy
You may have heard about the guy at Monday night's Cubs game who was making lewd faces behind home plate. That guy was Julian Dalrymple, and Impose magazine has an interview with him.
Winning with Data
Tribune Apps senior developer Joe Germuska and the Investigative Reporters and Editors won a Knight News Challenge grant to continue development on census.ire.org, a resource for journalists to work with US Census data.
Cutler takes a Tumblr
Smokin' Jay Cutler, a site "dedicated to the most apathetic looking athlete in the history of sports. "
Grab Your Partner
Couples need love, too -- hence the recently launched Get Lusty, a locally produced online mag for two.
The Decline of the Southeast Side
Exit Zero is a book, documentary and website examining the aftermath of the decline of Chicago's heavy industry.
Zipcar Meets Airbnb
Getaround is an app that lets you take car sharing to the personal level by putting your car up for rent by the hour. So far, 104 cars are available in Chicagoland, for between $5 and $25 an hour.
A Den of Scum and Villainy ...and Martinis
Rockit Ranch has purchased Martini Ranch, and is asking for your help in re-concepting the River North bar. Do312's Jeremy Scheuch thinks it should be a Star Wars cantina.
Getting Bigger All the Time
A new report estimates that by 2030, the obesity rate in Illinois could shoot from 27 percent to 53.7 percent -- a strain not just on joints and respiratory systems, but state finances as well.
Watching Old News
The Internet Archive just launched a huge TV news archive stretching back to June of 2003. Plenty of Chicago-related stuff in there -- including some that sounds pretty familiar.
Wisecracks at the Movies
Splitsider thinks Siskel and Ebert were film criticism's most underrated comedy duo ever.
Fast Forward the Tape
Joshua Adams writes about how Chief Keef symbolizes his love-hate relationship with Chicago.
American Pilots to Strike; United Probed for Delays
American Airlines canceled an unusually high number of flights Tuesday as pilots mounted a "sick-out" in advance of a strike; 100 pilots are expected to picket at O'Hare on Thursday. Meanwhile, United is being investigated by the US Dept. of Transportation over 14 flights stuck on the ground for longer than the legal limit on July 13, which was due to the big storms that nearly shut down the first day of the Pitchfork Music Festival.
Your Training Shirt
We've posted about Transit Tees before, back when they were just on Etsy. For the next couple days you can get their cool CTA-themed t-shirts (and a couple ties!) on Fab.com.
Chik-fil-A Changes Heart; So Does Moreno
Ald. Proco "Joe" Moreno acquiesced on his opposition to Chik-fil-A building a branch in Logan Square after the chain agreed to stop funding anti-gay organizations and issued a company mandate supporting equality regardless of sexual orientation.
CPS Back in Session Tomorrow
The Chicago Teachers Union voted today to end their seven day-long strike.
Not Your World Championship Cubs
In the trailer for NBC's new show "Revolution" this spring, a sign on Wrigley Field named the Cubs the 2012 World Champions. Fantasy caught up to reality by the time the show aired this week.
"It's a way of saying, 'We're human'"
The suburban conservative synagogue Beth Hillel Congregation Bnai Emunah's unconventional advertising campaign is written up in the NY Times Media & Advertising section.
The DePaul of the Future
DePaul just released its new Vision 2018 six year plan. Compare it to previous plans here.
Permanent Works of Art
Opening Friday at the Uptown Arts Center is "The Sharpie King," a collection of works by Immy Mellin, who works exclusively in the medium. The Sharpie Blog has an interview and pictures of his work. [via]
Graham Elliot Settles a Suit
TMZ reports that Graham Elliot settled a lawsuit filed by 14 former servers that claimed his eponymous restaurant engaged in illegal tip pooling. Eater has the court documents.
The City That Runs
Darcy Phillips began a quest earlier this year to run on every block of the city. You can follow his journey via Facebook.
Muhammad Ali Goes to Mars
In 1966, a New Trier highschooler named Michael Aisner drove to the South Side with a friend to interview Muhammad Ali. The reel-to-reel tape hadn't been heard for 50 years -- until Aisner submitted it to Blank on Blank, a new collection of "lost interviews" old and new.
Watch Tumblr Storyboards animated version of the interview, or listen to the extended version on Soundcloud.
Fox News Gets Punked
Max Rice, a Columbia College student posing as a former Obama supporter, managed to get an awkward, unfunny on-air interview with Gretchen Carlson from Fox News on Monday morning. Carlson cut Rice off after realizing that Rice "wasn't ready for prime time."
Electing to Play
Forty-five theater companies around the country (and possibly more to come) will mount the Neo-Futurists' 44 Plays for 44 Presidents as part of the Plays for Presidents Festival. The performances will be compiled into a video that will debut about a week before the election.
Who Hurts Horses?
Someone broke into the police department's South Shore stables Sunday night and let loose 27 of the 30 horses, and injured two of them with a fire extinguisher.
We're Well Connected
Chicago is one of the country's digital hubs, where 7.96 terabits of data is transferred every second on fiber optic cables that criss-cross the city. But it's also time for an upgrade.
Cubs Fans Start to Get Wise
The Cubs are on track to post their lowest annual attendance since 2003 -- although that 36,116 average still puts them among the top in the league. Meanwhile, the Sox are averaging only 24,520 fans, despite leading their division.
Showing it Can be Done
Gozamos launched "SÃ Se Puede Attitude," a new series on Latino professionals with a profile of Diana Rodriguez, a senior auditor with Deloitte & Touche who grew up in Pilsen
Listen to the Marathon
Composer Mark Mallman is in the midst of a 150-hour-long song, "Marathon 4," broadcast live from the back of a van traveling from New York to LA. He'll be out front of Graham Elliot Bistro tonight at 6pm.
Turning a Daley Park into a Daley Park
The two and a half year reconstruction of North Grant Park is now underway, during which Daley Bicentennial Plaza will be transformed into Maggie Daley Park. Three renderings of the park are available on the construction website (Tip: Open each rendering in another window to see the full resolution version).
You're Welcome, SF
Local street artist Don't Fret took his talents west to San Francisco to class up their city's walls.
Public Art
The CTA is looking for artists to create work for seven rehabbed north side Red Line stations. Local, national and international artists are encouraged to apply by Oct. 10, though there will be community meetings to discuss the project both tomorrow and Thursday. [via]
Your Sext is not Making her Moist
Melanie LaForce would like you to know a few things about what's going on when you sext her. Separately, she defends the word "moist." (NSFW, if you couldn't guess.)
Backlash to the Backlash Against Amanda Palmer
Steve Albini got himself in a minor amount of hot water for calling Amanda Palmer an idiot for requesting unpaid musicians to perform on her current tour, after garnering $1.2 million on Kickstarter to record an album. Albini explains himself on The Stool Pigeon.
They're Really Selling It
Hopefully RedEye's sales staff is better at selling ads than it is at acting. [via] UPDATE: Aw, they deleted it.
Meet the Madam
NewCity profiles Rose Laws, the "Gold Coast Madam" whose autobiography will be out in November from Lake Claremont Press.
Would-be Terrorist Targets ...Cal's?
Adel Daoud, an 18-year-old kid from Hillside, was arrested Friday night after allegedly trying to blow up a Loop bar with a car bomb. The FBI had been tracking him for months. The target was not released, but the owners of Cal's are pretty sure it was them.
Starting up Post-Groupon
The bloom may be off Groupon's rose, but Chicago's tech startup scene is thriving, says the Atlantic's Alexis Madrigal. He's even made a map for you.
CPS Strike to Continue
The tentative agreement that would have ended the weeklong CPS strike was not reached; expect teachers back at the picket line tomorrow, with the possibility that students could return to the classroom by Wednesday. Update: A CPS attempt to block to the strike today failed.
Worst Baseball Franchise?
Good news, the Cubs aren't the worst franchise in baseball, but they are somewhat close. According to Chicago magazine's analysis of a tool developed by Bloomberg Businessweek, the Cubs sit comfortably at 27th place. This should make Cubs fans thankful they aren't Mets fans.
Fighting for Prison Kids
The ACLU is suing the state over the poor conditions in juvenile prisons, WBEZ reports. Read more in BEZ's "Inside and Out" series.
Contest: Cloud Nothings at WBEZ
Cloud Nothings are playing an exclusive show for WBEZ High Fidelity members on Monday, Sept. 17. RSVPs filled up in 2.5 minutes this morning, but we've got a pair of passes to give away.
Email contests@gapersblock.com by noon Saturday with your name, phone number and the subject line "Cloud Nothings" to enter; we'll choose one winner at random for the two tickets.
Documenting the "Best Book Cave Ever"
Later this year the U of C is kicking the Seminary Co-op Bookstore out of its 50-year warren of rooms and relocating it to a former residence hall. In the meantime, Seminary Co-op Documentation Project has been following the process and producing audio interviews, photographs and other interesting tidbits about the bookstore. Background is available in this 2011 GB feature by one of the documentarians.
Strike May be Over, Possibly
CPS and CTU negotiators have reached a "tentative" "framework" for a contract agreement. Stay tuned for details.
Billy Corgan's Tea House
Smashing Pumpkins frontman Billy Corgan opened a tea house, called Madame Zuzu's, in Highland Park yesterday. The grand opening was celebrated with a special acoustic performance by Corgan himself.
Chuck Taylor: Chicago Shoe Salesman
SPIN Magazine assembled an oral history of the Chuck Taylor shoe, and while it's a fleeting mention, according Converse archivist Sam Smallidge, Taylor got his start working for Marquis Converse as a salesman in Chicago in the 1920s. [via]
Fall Fashion Forward
Fashion Focus Chicago prepares to bring the catwalk to Millennium Park from October 15-21. The 8th annual festival of fashion is a week-long celebration of the city's emerging upscale garment industry.
Don't Rent, Buy
During the recession there was a lot of talk about how the housing bubble made it cheaper to rent than own. According to Trulia, it's now cheaper to own again, in Chicago and every other major city in America.
A Few Good Goats
O'Hare is looking to hire a herd of goats as a greener way to keep grass around runways short.
The Noble Electrical Fire
There may be fewer horse-drawn carriages plodding through the city following a fire at an Old Town stable. No mammals of any kind were injured.
Teacher Strike Continues as Resolution Rumors Circulate
Striking teachers marched in Congress Plaza last night, as word that an agreement may be reached Friday began to spread.
The Evolution of American Nuns
WBEZ and the Reader look into the Chicago-made movie Band of Sisters, which explores the changing experience of American nuns over the last 50 years. Tonight's premiere at the Siskel is sold out, but tickets for the rest of the weekend are available.
A School Strike Primer
Gawker's John Cook provides a good overview of the school strike (especially if you're from out of town) -- and suggests a radical solution to school strife overall: ban private schools.
Fuel For Your Soul
In Transmission, we take a deeper look at Chicago's thriving soul music DJ scene with a night spent with the Windy City Soul Club DJs, and the fans who love to dance.
Fall in Film
The Chicago Film Archives have scheduled quite a bit this month and next -- a slew of shorts about Chicago, an avant-garde series, and the 10th anniversary of Home Movie Day.
Roosevelt to 13th
Ever wonder why streets on the South Side are numbered, but North Side streets aren't? WBEZ's Carrie Shepherd decided to try to find out.
Violence as an Infectious Disease
CeaseFire is now Cure Violence. Hear more about the name change from Gary Slutkin.
Ride Along with a Hack
Filmmaker John McNaughton's "video portrait" of Dmitry Samarov during his last days of driving a cab is now online.
Face Off
Chicago-based actor Deanna Moffitt spoke with HuffPo about stock footage of her face being used in a television ad created by conservative PAC American Crossroads.
Dribbling into History
America SCORES Chicago is taking part in a world record attempt at the most soccer balls dribbled at one time by a group -- and you can help. Sign up to participate, then read our feature about the organization in Tailgate.
Have a Bloody Carrie
Cafe Mustache, a favorite hangout of more than one GB staffer, now has a liquor license.
Rapping with Chuck D
Public Enemy founder Chuck D will be in town tonight with the Rap Sessions tour for a panel discussion about hip-hop, politics and the upcoming election. The talk, "Hip-Hop Activism in the Obama / Tea Party Era," is free and open to the public. Check out Slowdown for more details.
RIP, Sharon McGhee & Julie Shannon
The Chicago theater world lost two of its own this week. Playwright and WVON news director Sharon McGhee passed away Tuesday of ovarian cancer. Julie Shannon, composer and lyricist for The Christmas Schooner, passed away Wednesday, also of cancer.
Bob Greene Says "Hi"
Some of you have no idea who Bob Greene is. The rest of you might be curious to learn what he's been up to in the 10 years since the scandal. Eric Zorn adds some additional thoughts.
A Need For Speed (Cameras)
Nine companies submitted bids for "Chicago's speed camera automated enforcement program" on Monday. The contract to place 300 cameras around Chicago is a lucrative one, but not without the possibility of technical and legal issues.
A Dozen New North Side Retailers
Crain's lists a barrage of new commercial venues to open in the Clybourn corridor, and a New York developer uses an odd metaphor about developers using their limited bullets at North and Clybourn. If you don't have time for the full article, the map is a great summary.
On the Small Screen
2012 is a record year in Chicago for television tapings, with four one-hour dramas having been been shot here this year: "The Mob Doctor," "Chicago Fire," "Underemployed" and "Boss."
UofC Lab School Director Opposes Test Scores as Teacher Measurement
University of Chicago Lab School Director David Magill is against using standardized testing to determine teacher evaluations, a major sticking point between the Chicago Teachers' Union and Mayor Rahm Emanuel. Emanuel's children attend the South Side private school.
Music, Movies, Both, Something Else?
Jim DeRogatis wants to know what the Congress Theater's owner is doing with the Portage Theater, particularly because a lot of rules stand in the way of changing the venue.
Trees to Grow in Logan
The Chicago Rarities Orchard Project is actually moving forward in Logan Square.
The Skyline & the Bean
What images come up for "Chicago" when people in different countries search Google Images? ImageAtlas.org shows you.
Patch Coming to More Chicago Neighborhoods
AOL's hyperlocal news service will be launching new sites for Lincoln Park, Lakeview, Roscoe Village, Bucktown-Wicker Park, and Lincoln Square. The Beverly-Mount Greenwood Patch site is already online, while the rest are currently only available on Facebook.
A Local Pompeian Carpet
ArchitecturePlus Chicago reviews the plans for the Expo Chicago 2012 space by Studio/Gang. If you like their work, don't forget to check out their Art Institute show at the end of the month.
But Does he Like Creed?
In the most important press clarification of the year, Mayor Emanuel's Press Secretary Tarrah Cooper proclaimed that the mayor does not like Nickelback. Sorry, guys. (No word yet on Creed.)
Longman & Eagle Team Tackle Hyde Park
The Promontory, a new restaurant planned for an early 2013 opening at 53rd Street in Hyde Park is being built by Longman & Eagle owners Bruce Finkelman and Craig Golden. No word yet on if there will be hotel rooms upstairs.
Big Fish Comes to Play
The producers of the 2003 film Big Fish announced last week that a musical theater adaptation will debut in Chicago next spring. The play is scheduled to open at the Oriental Theater on April 2, 2013 and will run for five weeks, until May 5. It boasts an all-star cast and crew, including Norbert Leo Butz, who will play the lead role of Ed Bloom, the dying father.
Staying Near the Lake
Forgotten Chicago is exploring the city's shoreline motels, the little-heralded accommodations along Lake Michigan, particularly on the North Side.
Video Upgrade
The Reader talks to Brandon Doherty, the projectionist at the Siskel Center, about switching theater equipment from celluloid to digital -- pros, cons, and why you should keep your VHS player.
This is How You Remind Me that We Need a Compromise
The Teacher's Strike has taken a much-needed comical turn.
Talking About the Violence
Speaking of CeaseFire, the organization is cosponsoring a forum on community violence tonight at the Chicago Urban League at 6pm. Details in Slowdown.
Mapping Park(ing) Day 2012
Park(ing) Day is only a couple of weeks away, but the official map only has the city's People Spaces listed. Why not add yours today?
Ask a Teacher Anything
A CPS teacher is doing a Reddit AMA ("ask me anything") from the picket line with the help of her husband.
The Congress Buys the Portage
Eddie Carranza, owner of the Congress Theater, has purchased the Portage Theater. I a message posted on Everyblock, Carranza said there are no immediate plans to bring concerts to the Portage, but might actually bring film programming to the Congress. Stay tuned for new developments.
Raise Your Glass for a Berghoff Toast
The Berghoff kicks off its annual Oktoberfest tomorrow at the Kluczynski Federal Plaza, 230 S. Dearborn St. It runs 11am to 9pm Sept. 12-14.
Prentice Fight Gets Ugly
Northwestern is resorting to dirty pool in its battle with preservationists over the old Prentice Women's Hospital, Deanna Isaacs says.
Teachers' Strike National News Roundup
The CTU strike is all over the national news, with coverage from The NY Times, The Washington Post, Forbes, CNN, NBC News, Reuters, and pretty much everyone else. Back in Chicago, a demonstrator had some disappointing news about the mayor.
Further Interruptions
In "Chicago Interrupted," Vice magazine followed two members of CeaseFire, Tio Hardiman and Ameena Matthews, as they went about the daily business of keeping fights from escalating into more serious violence. The first part of the video series was posted yesterday. [via]
Stay tuned for more in the series.
Gapers Block has covered CeaseFire a number of times over the years, profiling Tio Hardiman back in 2008 and more recently digging into criticism of the organization's tactics as it rose to prominence with the release of the documentary The Interrupters.
Bronies in the 'Burbs this Weekend
Chicagoist notes that Midwestria, a convention for "My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic" fans, will turn St. Charles into a stable for Bronies this weekend.
Contest: See Lewis Black at the Chicago Theatre
As you may have spotted if you're not blocking ads on GB, Lewis Black is coming to the Chicago Theatre Nov. 17. We have a pair of tickets to give away!
Email contests@gapersblock.com with your name and phone number and the subject line "Lewis Black" by Wednesday, Sept. 12 at noon, when we'll choose a name at random. UPDATE: We have a winner! Congratulations to Kevin C.!
The Glowing Puck Guy
Crain's profiles Hank Adams, CEO of Sportvision, the Ravenswood-based company responsible for football's first and ten lines and less beloved innovations.
Breathe a Little Deeper
In case you missed it, the Crawford and Fisk coal-fired power plants are now officially offline. Visit the city's Fisk and Crawford Reuse Task Force website for updates about redevelopment possibilities and to offer your own suggestions.
SNL Taps Chicago Again
"Saturday Night Live" is adding three new castmembers for their 38th season, and all three are from Chicago. Aidy Bryant, Tim Robinson and Cecily Strong are all veterans of the local improv scene.
The Greening of Wilson
Preliminary redesigns for the CTA's station at Wilson in the Uptown neighborhood contain ideas for utilizing solar energy and radiant heating, among other green initiatives, to help not only the station's energy needs, but those of the neighborhood as well.
Vote for #1
Cintas is once again running its America's Best Restroom contest, and the Radisson Blu Aqua Hotel is the local nominee.
This Life on Screen
Steve James, director of Hoop Dreams, has optioned Roger Ebert's memoir, Life Itself to make a documentary, with Martin Scorsese as executive producer.
I Believe I Can Fly (from Responsibility)
TMZ reports that R. Kelly owes over $6 million in unpaid taxes that date as far back as 2005.
We're Number 227!
The Chronicle of Philanthropy's recent report, How America Gives, breaks down charitable giving by state, metropolitan area and by zip code. Illinois ranks 29, and the Chicago metropolitan area comes in at 227 out 366 areas. Local donors give 4.2% of income, a median amount of $2,296. If you want to know how your ZIP code fares, take a look.
The Teacher Strike Begins
Now that the strike is on and CPS is implementing its "Children First" program, one can view a map of those locations. Other student programs are available below and after the break.
The Lookingglass Theatre is offering daytime drama workshops during the strike; $65 a day to participate.
Buzzfeed collected a few tweets from students last night regarding the strike.
The Caucus of Rank-and-File Educators (CORE) released a video telling the history of teacher strikes from 1968 to 1987:
CPS, Teachers Unable to Reach Agreement
"We have failed to reach an agreement that will prevent a labor strike." CPS is implementing its "Children First Plan," in which 144 schools will provide supervision for part of the day, and many churches, community organizations, parks and libraries will provide activities and "safe havens" for students. Additional details about the conflict are available in the CTU statement and CPS statement.
Ravenswood Metra Station
A new development around the Ravenswood Metra station began construction last week. Highlights of the project include covered platforms and warming shelters, and a planned Mariano's and L.A. Fitness.
Big Birds
Crain's gives us a list of the local Twitter accounts with the most followers, and explains who this @DarrenWillinger guy is.
That Gevinson Look
GB could be accused of having a crush on Tavi Gevinson, but Chicago magazine takes it a step further in their latest issue, calling her the queen of new media and following her on the recent Rookie road trip.
Armstrong Can't Runstrong for Livestrong
Runner's World reports that Lance Armstrong has been denied entry to the Chicago Marathon, which is a month from today. The disgraced cyclist had planned to run with the Livestrong Foundation-sponsored team.
Yesterday's Transit System of Tomorrow
John R. Schmidt shares pictures and details on a 1958 CTA plan to create subways and bus-ways throughout the city.
Vinyl on the Sidewalk
Dusty Groove is holding a sidewalk sale this Saturday to help make space in its overcrowded basement. Stop by on your way to Renegade and pick up LPs for 50 cents and 7-inches for a quarter.
Wandering the Alleys
The Alley Connoisseur takes a walk through the Loop via Bob Thall's City Spaces.
The People on the Train
Public Portraits photographs riders of Chicago's rails -- including the adorable Kangaroo Mom.
The Heartbreaking Cycle of Life
Larry Porter, who became a father on Wednesday, was killed the same day when someone shot him while he was driving on the Dan Ryan Wednesday night.
Open the Door to 150 Chicago Places
Open House Chicago's 2012 website is now live, including this map of the locations open on October 13 and 14.
Gang Beef in a Rap Setting
Further thoughts Whet Moser and Miles Raymer on Chief Keef, Lil JoJo and the bleakness of Chicago's teen rap scene.
Pitchfork Retracts Chief Keef Video
After the controversy surrounding Chief Keef and the murder of Lil JoJo, Pitchfork announced today that it is retracting its video interview with the 16-year-old rapper, which was conducted at a New York gun range. Meanwhile, Lupe Fiasco is apparently mulling retiring from music.
Uncrating "Wild Chicago"
Chicagoans of a certain age remember "Wild Chicago," a great TV show on Channel 11 that featured the weird, wacky and wonderful people, places and things about the city. Its original host, Ben Hollis, has gotten permission from WTTW to produce a best-of DVD from the first two seasons of the show, and he's started an IndieGoGo campaign to help make it happen.
Drew Peterson Found Guilty
The wild and crazy Drew Peterson case moves briefly out of court today as the jury found him guilty of the murder of his third wife, Kathleen Savio. I say briefly, because you can bet there will be an appeal.
D.Rose Loves Giordano's
Giordano's landed a big-time investor and spokesperson this week: Derrick Rose. [via]
How We'll Walk
CDOT released the Chicago Pedestrian Plan, a document aimed at "improving all aspects of the pedestrian experience and increase pedestrian activity."
Foraging for Elizabeth
The Reader profiles underground chef Iliana Regan, now coming above ground with her new restaurant, Elizabeth.
How Sweetness Soured
Speaking of the '85 Bears, author Jeff Pearlman recounts in ChicagoSide how his biography of Walter Payton was panned by Chicago media without ever being read.
McMahon's Memory Loss
In this week's Sports Illustrated, former Bears quarterback Jim McMahon and his girlfriend Laurie Navon discuss his early onset dimentia due to the several concussions he suffered in the NFL.
Brains, Blood & Beer
If a zombie pub crawl is just too run-of-the-mill for you, maybe the Zombie vs. Vampires Pub Crawl this weekend offers enough of a twist to get your blood running.
Chief Keef Laughs at Rival's Death
Chief Keef is under fire after tweets apparently mocking the shooting death of rival rapper Lil JoJo Tuesday night.
Lil JoJo had posted a video on YouTube earlier on Tuesday in which he appeared to drive past Chief Keef associate Lil Reese and shout obscenities at him. "Ima kill you" can be heard in the video. The police are allegedly investigating the tweets and video in relation to the murder.
Tight Living Quarters
Time Out invades Apartment Therapy's personal space this week with a feature on making the most of tiny apartments.
Why Chicago's not a Convention Town
Past GB contributor Ted McClelland explains why the national political conventions don't come to Chicago anymore.
Free Science, Industry
The Museum of Science and Industry is hosting its Illinois Free Days: no admission charge for all residents (with ID) on weekdays Sept. 4 through 28.
Congress Theater Getting a Facelift
According to the LoganSquarist, the Congress Theater will soon undergo renovations and build a storefront community center.
Certain Rubicon Lines
John Cusack talks with constitutional law professor Jonathan Turley about "death panels" and other constitutional sins of the Obama administration.
Win Tickets to Samsara this Friday
Samsara is a unique documentary, shot on 70mm film over a period of five years in 25 countries, that takes you to sacred sites, disaster zones, industrial complexes and natural wonders of the world to show the connections between nature and man's experience. It opens Friday, Sept. 7 at Landmark Century Center, and we have two pairs of tickets to give away.
To enter, send an email to contests@gapersblock.com with your name and phone number and "Samsara" as the subject line. We'll choose two winners at noon on Thursday. Good luck! UPDATE: We have our winners! Congratulations to Amber R. and Rosie D.!
When the Shirt is the Fan's
You can't get a more iconic Chicago theater t-shirt than the Neo-Futurists' Too Much Light shirt ...or CAN you? The theater company is soliciting new shirt ideas from its fans, with prizes for the top two designs. Full details at the Neo-Futurists' blog.
CPD Adopts Policy on Transgender Detainees
The Chicago Police quietly adopted a new transgender policy last month. You can read it online.
Big Leaguer Invests in Starter League
Web app firm 37signals invested in The Starter League, formerly known as Code Academy, which might be best known for its classes on Ruby on Rails ...which 37signals invented.
So Long, Frank Lloyd Wright
Crain's reports that the Art Institute passed on the opportunity to house Frank Lloyd Wright's entire archive. Instead, the famed Chicago architect's work will go to New York. Art Garfunkel could not be reached for comment.
When the GOP Came to the Windy City
The Chicago Film Archives put together a collection of newsreel footage from the 1960 Republican National Convention, which was held in Chicago. There's no sound for most of it, but that's kind of a nice change compared to today's "wall-to-wall" coverage.
Chicago Crime, Redux
Crime in Chicago is a new site from the Tribune that provides crime maps, statistics and other useful info for each of the city's 77 community areas.
Obama's "New" Chicago Politics
The Daily Beast looks at how Obama's approach to Chicago (and similar city) votes differs from the Democrats of yesterday.
RIP: 38 Teenagers Shot & Remembered
More than 150 people have died this summer due to gun violence. The Complex City-Guide shares just a few facts about each teenager who died this summer in Chicago. This R.I.P Guide shares a few images and basic facts about each life we've lost. Listening to this great piece by Natalie Moore of WBEZ provides an interesting context for reading the names and descriptions of the shootings.
Capone on Trial
The Tribune recently unearthed glass-negative photos of Al Capone from his 1931 trial for tax evasion, found in its archives.
Grinding Down the Outer Drive
Two sections of Lake Shore Drive, from Sheridan to Foster and from Belmont to North, will be resurfaced beginning tomorrow, Sept. 5. CDOT promises not to obstruct any southbound lanes during morning rush hour (6-10am) or northbound lanes in the evening (3-7pm), but all bets are off at other times, day or night till they're done with all eight lanes -- which should happen sometime in November.
View North Lake Shore Drive Resurfacing in a larger map
Dorian Gray, 78 Years Late
Forget that book from 1975 -- the oldest book returned in the Chicago Public Library's amnesty program is a copy of The Picture of Dorian Gray checked out in 1934. You've got till Sept. 7 to beat that -- or just to return your late copy of Gone Girl.
Edwards Out at Howard Brown
On Friday, the Howard Brown Health Center's controversial CEO, Jamal Edwards, announced his resignation. He spoke with the Phoenix about the decision.
Get More Cops on the Street
Emanuel and McCarthy's anti-violence strategy gets poor reviews from residents of the neighborhoods that are affected, where they're calling for even more of a police presence. Meanwhile, 50 officers were sent to the Democratic National Convention.
RIP Michael Clarke Duncan
Chicago-born actor Michael Clarke Duncan passed away today after two months of treatment following a heart attack he suffered July 13.
Our own Steve Prokopy interviewed Duncan back in 2005, and here he is on "The Late Late Show" with Craig Ferguson in April of 2011.
Fried's Favorite Cleaning Lady
37signals' Jason Fried looks to his cleaning woman as a business icon.
125 Items for 125 Years
The Newberry Library turned 125 this year, and it's celebrating with an exhibition called, appropriately enough, The Newberry 125. It opens this Thursday, Sept. 6.
Knocked Up Out
Writing about pregnancy is often overly political or interesting only to people who know the pregnant person personally. Occasionally a piece comes along that is able to personalize all the political issues and make you wish you knew the writer personally. Martha Bayne (of Soup & Bread fame) has written a piece just like that.
TV Show of Strength
Tonight at 7pm, WGN will air "MDA Show of Strength," the annual entertainment telethon, which benefits more than 200 muscular dystrophy clinics, including the brand new one at Lurie Children's Hospital.
Ald. Roderick Sawyer Meets Anger & Hostility After Another Shooting
Sixth ward Alderman Roderick Sawyer tried speak with concerned citizens after a shooting in his South Side ward. He was told, "Ya'll can't do nothing" by a teenager who was the brother of the shooting victim.
The Cost of Going to the Moon: $2 Million
Courthouse News Service reports on the economic pitfalls of an encounter with the moon.
Sleepwalkers Among Us
Today's showing of the Ira Glass and Mike Birbiglia-penned film Sleepwalk with Me had an interesting revelation; an audience member shared her tale of falling out of a window while sleepwalking. Glass was so moved by her story that he encouraged her to see a doctor, and gave her $300 of his own money towards the cost.
