Lords of the Land
Renters in Chicago paid over $14.3 billion to their landlords over the past year.
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
Monday, November 17
Merge
Monthly Archive
December 2014
Free Rides
Remember: the CTA is free tonight, which is helpful because taxis will be impossible to find and Uber rides will be expensive.
Third Meal
Thrillist puts Chicago at number three in its list of the best US cities for dining, behind New York and New Orleans.
Ride Free Tonight
As usual, CTA trains and buses are free New Year's Eve, from 10pm till 4am. Trains will also have extra cars during peak times.
Star-Crossed Locales
Curious City looks into whether Romeoville and Joliet were originally named after Shakespeare's Romeo and Juliet.
When it Rains, it Pours
Some nearby Acuras were engulfed in salt when a wall at the Morton Salt plant collapsed this afternoon. No word on new markdowns at the dealership. (No injuries were reported.)
No reports of injury. Cars affected from Acura dealership pic.twitter.com/cPZM3iPYhi
— Chicago Fire Media (@CFDMedia) December 30, 2014Aerial view of the wall collapse at #MortonSalt from Skycam 9.. salt pouring onto cars. (Elston/Division) @WGNNews pic.twitter.com/v0nzi8gLqh
— Sarah Jindra (@SarahJindra) December 30, 2014Driving While Black in Chicago
Nearly half of all drivers pulled over in Chicago last year were black, according to the ACLU.
The Way We'll Move
A Ventra app for Metra riders, bus rapid transit in the Loop, and 4G networks on the Blue and Red lines are among the transit improvements planned for 2015.
A Good Pick
Rod Thorn shares the story behind the Bulls' decision to draft Michael Jordan after two other teams passed him up.
Not Even the Diviest Bar in Lakeview
Galway Bay Pub, steps from Lincoln Park, inexplicably made Impulcity's list of the "diviest dive bars in America." For context, take a look at their guide to Chicago.
A History of Prejudice
Related to the previous, Subuk Hasnain recounts the political legacy of the KKK in the Chicago Reporter.
West Ridge Hate Crimes
Anti-Semitic graffiti was spray-painted on synagogues and garages in the Jewish neighborhood of West Rogers Park Sunday night. Police are investigating.
Fresh Friendly Confines
The debut of a remodeled Wrigley Field on April 5, 2015 is one of the New York Times' most anticipated sports events of the next year.
Encyclopedia of Jerks
Lumpen is accepting nominations for its Field Guide to Chicago Jagoffs; guys blocking the El door, bike ninjas, and Ronnie "Woo Woo" Wickers are early contenders.
As the Real World Turns
This season of "The Real World" is less in touch with reality than when the show first came to Chicago in 2001, writes Brianna Wellen in the Reader.
Footwork Renaissance
Photographer Wills Glasspiegel documented the growth of Chicago footwork from a local scene to a global phenomenon.
Bike the Whole City
A trio of African-American cyclists are calling for the City to direct more biking resources -- bike paths, Divvy stations, etc. -- to the South and West sides.
Trestman and Emery Out
As fans cope with the team's terrible season, the Chicago Bears announced the firings of head coach Marc Trestman and general manager Phil Emery today.
Spartz Goes Viral
The New Yorker profiles Emerson Spartz, the founder of the Harry Potter community site Mugglenet who now has a collection of viral content sites to rival Cheezburger.
The Reader Looks Back on 2014
The Reader's annual year-end roundups of movies, music, theater, TV, food and politics should keep you busy for awhile.
Rock & Brawl McDonald's
A fight broke out in the Rock & Roll McDonald's Saturday night; it was captured in a video posted anonymously on YouTube.
Ode to the Season
In case you're looking for some holiday inspiration or reflection, Poetry magazine has a collection of Christmas poems and lyrics for you.
Checking the Connections
CPS' inspector general is investigating a member of the Chicago Board of Education to see whether she's improperly profiting from her position on the board.
"And now they're just gone."
NPR traces the history and demolition of Chicago's public housing projects, drawing on the photos and memories of documentarian Patricia Evans.
Singin' for the Kids
Pau Gasol did his best rendition of "Imagine" by John Lennon to raise funds and awareness for UNICEF. [via]
Forced Vacation
A judge sentenced a Middle Eastern banker to visit Chicago annually for the next four years as part of his sentence for dodging more than $1.3 million in taxes.
Worst Hits
The City shared videos of car crashes caused by drivers running red lights to encourage safer driving, although they left out clips of accidents caused by red light cameras.
LiveNationPalooza is Official
LiveNation now owns a controlling 51 percent share of C3 Presents, which organizes Lollapalooza. (Previously.) Jim DeRogatis notes, among other concerns, that it means Mayor Emanuel's brother Ari now has an even bigger stake in the festival.
Cards Against Hawaii 2
As part of its Holiday Bullshit thing this year, the Cards Against Humanity guys purchased a small private island in Maine, which they've renamed Hawaii 2, and sent out deeds for one square foot of land to each of the 250,000 subscribers.
#BlackLivesMatter on the Red Line
On Friday, activists took over a Red Line train as part of a protest highlighting the nation's -- and the city's -- racial divide.
15 Reasons to Be SAD
We have had almost no recorded sunshine in Chicago since Dec. 12, which puts us on track for the greyest, gloomiest December in history.
The QB Chicago Needs Right Now
Jay Cutler will be back at the helm Sunday after Jimmy Clausen suffered a concussion during his debut as the Bears' starting quarterback this season.
Streets for the People
Chicago's streets would be easier to navigate without all those pesky cars; John Greenfield suggests a few ways to clear the lanes.
It Could Happen to Anyone
Mayor Emanuel's son was assaulted and robbed of his cell phone while walking near their home in Lakeview Friday night.
GB Gift Guide: Louis CK Tickets
The comedian just announced shows at the Chicago Theater on Jan. 5th and 6th. They go on sale at 2pm today. You're welcome.
I Can See My House from Here
NASA examines Chicago's geography from space and credits its natural features for the city's growth.
The Hits Keep Coming
Red light cameras lead to more rear-end accidents at intersections while decreasing the number of T-bone collisions, according to a study.
GB Gift Guide: Shop Local
If you're still looking for just the right gift and you want it to be locally made, it's not too late. Visit shops like Neighborly, Wolfbait & B-Girls, Trillium, Local Goods, Squasht, Orange Beautiful, Hardscrabble Gifts, Inkling or one of the many members of Local First Chicago.
RIP Berny Stone
Former 50th Ward Alderman Bernard Stone passed away last night. He was 87.
Stone was one of the city's longest serving alderman, and served as vice mayor from 1998 until 2011. He lost the 2011 aldermanic election to Deborah Silverstein.
The Low Plane Rumble
Just how bad is the noise for folks living under O'Hare's new flight paths? Pretty bad, reports Rod O'Connor in Chicago magazine.
Post-Serial Recovery Plan
So, you were addicted to Serial. The Third Coast Audio Festival put together a handy tool to figure out what podcast to listen to next.
All Die Young
Smith Westerns have broken up -- but you'll be able to see them perform one last time this Tuesday at Lincoln Hall.
Return of the Blue Damen
The Damen Blue Line stop reopens this morning after two months of renovation.
Mayor's Son Robbed
Rahm Emanuel's 17-year-old son Zach was robbed of his phone last night by two males while walking near the family's Ravenswood home. Police are investigating.
A Birds-Eye View of the System
Convicted in Cook shows which areas of the city have the highest number of arrests and convictions.
Crochet Queens
The formerly homeless women of Facing Forward's knitting club keep their hands busy to quit smoking and donate their work to those in need.
No Spire, Yes Spaceship
Between the Chicago Spire's ultimate demise and the Lucas Museum's futuristic designs, it was a complicated year for architecture in Chicago.
Colbert's Chicago
Chicago Magazine looks back at some of Stephen Colbert's best local moments now that he has signed off from the Colbert Report for the last time.
GB Gift Guide: Wear the Metro
Love hearing shows at the Metro? Grab some posters, tees, or even a tote to proclaim your love or commemorate a favorite show from the last year. The store is open for browsing in-person or online, all at reasonable prices.
One Toast is All You Get
Due to a crackdown by the City last year, fewer New Year's Eve parties are offering open-bar specials that may violate state's anti-Happy Hour law.
GB Gift Guide: Give Dough
Tickets go on sale at noon today for DonutFest, at which a dozen of the city's finest donut places will submit their best cruller, long john or ring to compete for the title of "Best Donut in Chicago." But really, they're all winners. Event is Jan. 25th at Chop Shop; cost is $30.
Gift Guide: Fun with Accents
The new locally developed game Utter Nonsense takes the Apples to Apples template in a different direction: players say raunchy or weird phrases in a funny accent to please the judge.
How to Be a Funny Lady
Kelsie Huff explains why she teaches an all-female standup comedy class. And if you're interested, the next one starts Jan. 7.
A New Tower on the River?
Jeanne Gang's next building project might be Chicago's third-tallest building proposed by Chinese developer Wanda Group and Chicago's Megellan Development Group.
Get the Ribbon Cutter Ready
Major progress has been made on the 606 (aka Bloomingdale Trail), with most of the road paved and bridges raised along the 2.7-mile route.
Get Your Meter Running
A calendar of scantily-clad (and one full-nude) cabbies is raising money for a federal lawsuit against the City to make it treat cab drivers more like city employees.
Grand Theft with Auto
Thieves are using cars as battering rams to smash through glass storefronts and steal as much as they can in a matter of minutes in "crash-and-grab" burglaries.
GB Gift Guide: Last Minute Shoppers
Need something one-of-a-kind and locally made for Christmas? Get it Saturday at one of two (or both!) local craft shows going on (that won't have lines waiting to get inside). Check out The Hideout for their annual Last Chance Holiday Sale or The Empty Bottle for their Last Dash Xmas Bash. Bonus: both venues have full bars, so you can sip while you shop!
Real Chicago PD Drama
While an arbitrator is deciding whether decades of complaints filed against cops will be made public, a United Nations committee expressed support for a resolution in City Council that would pay reparations to victims of torture during the Jon Burge era.
What We're Searching For
Chicago's top five Google searches of 2014 were Robin Williams, World Cup, iPhone 6, Ebola and Philip Seymour Hoffman.
GB Gift Guide: Creepy Cute
If you need something special for someone with a sick sense of humor, Grody Moments, Precious Moments-style figurines given a gory makeover, might do the trick.
No More Free Parking
Three politically connected companies will no longer have free access to city-owned parking lots near the United Center, where they've parked cars for years without paying rent.
Welcome to the Quarry
NewCity introduces us to The Quarry, a new event space in South Shore, and the women behind its creation.
First Course
L20's new concept will feature a rotating roster of up-and-coming chefs, an incubator for new culinary talent that will be the first of its kind in Chicago.
GB Gift Guide: Eat Out
À La Card Chicago is perfect for folks on your holiday shopping list who love to eat. It's a deck of 52 $10 gift certificates to local independent restaurants all over the city -- all for just $30.
Anti-Carols
Angry Bears fans put their spin on classic holiday songs, including "Cutler the Would-Be QB," "Last Season," and "You are rotten, Chicago Bears."
Attend it Now to Remember it Later
FoGB Coudal Partners are hosting an open house at the Midwest Field Notes HQ this Thursday and Friday, from 5 to 7pm each night. Stop by and pick up Field Notes and other fun stuff.
Empty Pews
Chicago Magazine takes an in-depth look at the Catholic Church's struggle to sustain itself and grow in Chicago while many are leaving the church behind.
GB Gift Guide: Indie Coffee Passport
This $25 card gets you a free drink at over 20 of the city's independent coffee shops (among them The Wormhole, Atomix, and Ugly Mug) over the next six months.
How Pilsen is Doing
City Lab's look at Pilsen's economic outlook is worth reading, though it might be dangerous to generalize the fortunes of the Southwest Side based on its most prosperous neighborhood (assuming you even include Pilsen in the Southwest Side).
Mold-A-Santa
The Lincoln Park Zoo switched the molds in the Mold-A-Rama in the Brach Primate House to make green Santas instead of gorillas, now through Christmas.
Where Not to Eat... Maybe
Data analyst Brandon Harris dug through the City of Chicago Data Portal to find the "dirtiest" restaurants in Chicago -- dirty being defined by number of failed health inspections, which commenters have pointed out often include "failed" visits from before a restaurant is even open. So, you know, caveat emptor.
Eyes on Justice
A pilot program approved by the Illinois Supreme Court will add cameras to courtrooms in Cook County.
Doctors Under Fire
Chicago doctors smuggle medical supplies into Syria and put their own lives on the line to help save those wounded by the country's civil war.
Truly Bullshit
All 30,000 boxes of bullshit sold by Cards Against Humanity for Black Friday contained bull poop as promised -- and all the profits went to charity.
GB Gift Guide: The Gift of Good Hearing
WHAT? WHAT? Before you blow out your ears at another show, get yourself some protection! Local purveyors of ear health, Etymotic have a range of earplugs that do a great job of filtering out the harsh and letting in the music. Take it from me, they work! For around $10, your future self will thank you for not needing a hearing aide in your 30s. You can pick them up online from the source, or from the Metro, Lincoln Hall, or Schubas.
Deep Dish Slices of Life
Meet a fish relocator, an urban explorer, and other people who are "So Chicago" through short documentaries by photojournalist Chris Walker.
Jobs Stop Bullets
Summer jobs programs substantially reduce violent crime among teens from low-income areas, according to a study.
Roy's Friend Ignaz
Chicagoist published "The King Of Vajra Dornei," a new "Roy story" by author Barry Gifford.
Jackie Robinson West Residency Questions
The vice president of Evergreen Park's Little League program has filed a complaint that members of the world champion Jackie Robinson West team live outside of the league's residency boundaries. A Little League International official said that the team's paperwork checked out.
GB Gift Guide: A Degree in Beer
Give the beer-lover in your life the gift of knowledge through the Dusek's Beer Education Series ($75), a six week-long learning series of tastings and discussions starting next month.
Bears Down Further
The Bears had yet another terrible game last night, losing to the Saints 31-15. Twin sites CutCutler.com and SaveDaBears.com are attempting to get Bears fans to buy out Cutler's contract by donating $15 each. [via]
Get Your Shots In
Calumet Photo is back, having been purchased in bankruptcy by New Jersey-based C&A Marketing, and the newly opened Chicago store is located, appropriately enough, on Eastman Street.
Life in a Booming 'Hood
While high-rise housing in Logan Square may provide new places to live, current residents are afraid rising property values (and rents) will force them out.
RIP Lee Sandlin
Lee Sandlin, longtime Reader contributor and author, passed away suddenly Saturday night. He was 58.
Fan on Fire
One Bears fan expressed their discontent with the team's performance this year by setting their tickets on fire.
Super Fun Site
A former Superfund site in Little Village is now a community park with a playground, soccer fields, and a skate park.
World Tour Diary
Spencer Tweedy shares his thoughts and photos from his first world tour with his dad.
Connecting the Campus
Getting to the Museum Campus using public transportation is pretty tough, but a trolley service, private busway, or light rail system could be used to make the trip easier, according to a mayoral panel.
Kickstart Me Up
An illustrated story about Kedzie Avenue, a food museum's first exhibit, a fashionable fitness tracker and a great deal on ramen are among the campaigns on GB's curated Kickstarter page.
The Things They Ate
Time Out's 100 best dishes and drinks of 2014 list includes everything from a honey badger to a milk maid to an autumn garden.
GB Gift Guide: Two Clubs for the Price of One
That music lover on your list can be picky. Why not get them access to two great local venues, for the price of one? Lincoln Hall and Schubas offer great gift cards that you can use for tickets, merch or even food at either locations' restaurants. Just get a card, slap a bow on it, and BOOM: you got yourself a date night for 2015. (And for the traditionalist, there are also tote bags, posters, and other cool stuff, available for shipping or local pickup.)
Get Rid of the Comptroller
Rich Miller argues in Crain's that the best way to honor Judy Baar Topinka is to combine the treasurer and comptroller's offices.
Critics' Top Picks
The Chicago Film Critics Association announced nominations for its 2014 film awards, with Birdman receiving nine nominations and The Grand Budapest Hotel receiving eight.
Open for Business
Mayor Emanuel wrote a piece for CNN Money about what the City has been doing for small businesses through a grant from the Bloomberg Philanthropies' Mayors Challenge.
Following Footwork
Meet the people and beats behind Chicago's footwork scene in a documentary shot on the South and West sides by Don't Watch That TV in 2012.
Commuter Students
A study found most neighborhood schools only enroll one-fourth of the students living in their area.
Pumped Up Goths
Catalyzed by a local DJ, the #healthgoth movement aims to get the black-clad masses to eat healthy and go to the gym.
GB Gift Guide: Get Bloodshot
Celebrate Bloodshot Records' 20th Anniversary with some commemorative swag, a record, or CD and get a bonus of free stuff when you spend $20. Check out their special holiday sale for discounts on albums and CDs, their online store for coozies and tees, and their gift idea guide for even the trickiest name on your shopping list, from kiddos to gramps.
United States of X: Unique Jobs Edition
Vox.com mapped the most distinctive job by state based on their relative popularity compared to other states; Business Insider ran a similar map earlier this year with different results. Illinois is full of railroad workers and groundskeepers, apparently.
Enemies Among Us
More than 45,000 World War II POWs, mostly Germans, were housed in Chicagoland military bases, Curious City reports.
Recognize These Folks?
The Reader's annual People Issue is out, profiling artists and activists, UX designers and food scientists and .
Does Your Conscience Bother You?
The police officer who played "Sweet Home Alabama" on his car's PA during a protest last weekend will be disciplined ...in some unspecified fashion.
Bop Towards the Weekend
If you're still not familiar with Chicago's unique bop music scene, Fake Shore Drive put together a playlist of the best bop tracks of 2014.
Downtown After Hours
While the Loop isn't known for its nightlife, restaurateurs may turn downtown into a destination for locals and tourists alike.
Banjo Missionaries
The bluegrass band Henhouse Prowlers travels around the world to teach kids about the American roots music.
Nice to Tweet You
Pitcher Jon Lester responded to hundreds of tweets directed at him by fans reacting to his decision to leave the Red Sox for the Cubs.
Smooch Magnet
YouTuber Blake Grigsby brought his own mistletoe to Christkindlmarket and found plenty of holiday cheer.
Should I Stay or Should I Go Now?
Forty-two of Saya Hillman's friends have decamped for other places this year. Rather than despairing, she's embracing the idea that leaving -- temporarily or permanently -- may make her appreciate what Chicago has to offer even more.
GB Gift Guide: Chicago-Made Bats
Maybe all these new Cubs and White Sox players would like a new baseball bat made in a backyard shed in Jefferson Park.
Uber Exclusionary
Uber fired as many as 15 local customer service contractors for attempting (unsuccessfully) to use an employee discount code for the rideshare service that was only open to full-time employees. [via]
After Judy
As the state mourns the passing of Comptroller Judy Baar Topinka, the matter of replacing her arises. A special election may be called.
Otter Know His Name by Tomorrow
You have till Thursday at 2pm to vote on the name of the Shedd Aquarium's orphaned otter Pup 681. The winner will be announced Friday.
Bringing Out a Big Gun
The Cubs signed left-handed pitcher Jon Lester to a six-year, $155 million contract, bringing a serious weapon into the team's arsenal. Read Sports Editor Chad Ruter's thoughts on the deal in Tailgate.
GB Gift Guide: Keep Your Head Warm
Fourth is King has a cool Sweet Home Chicago knit cap and one from You Are Beautiful, while New Era has one with the familiar four stars. (They also have this pretty neat ball cap.)
Not OK to Record Cops Once Again?
An amendment to a bill headed for Gov. Quinn's desk would make recording conversations with law enforcement a class-3 felony -- and allows police to perform warrantless audio-visual/electronic surveillance on suspects in serious crimes for 24 hours with permission of a state's attorney instead of a judge. [via, via]
UPDATE: The ACLU praised some aspects of the bill while panning others, noting that it does not explicitly ban recording of police -- however the language of the bill is vague enough on what a "private conversation" is that you can bet it'll be used by officers to stop recordings.
Following the Leader
City Council agrees with Mayor Emanuel more often than it did with the Daleys, according to a UIC professor, although the current mayor compromises more often.
A Big Outside Bet
South Side millionaire Dr. Willie Wilson plans to spend up to $3 million of his own money on his mayoral campaign.
Pay Hike Without Fare Hike
Cab drivers will receive as much as an $8,000 increase in annual income -- without a taxi fare increase -- under an ordinance passed by City Council yesterday.
RIP Judy Baar Topinka
Illinois Comptroller Judy Baar Topinka passed away today after suffering a stroke on Tuesday. She was 70. She had just won her second term as comptroller, her most recent role in a long political career.
To Serve Webpages and Protect
The Chicago Police Department unveiled a redesigned website yesterday, with expanded online crime reporting, a cold case database and more.
Rape Allegations Rock Uber
Police are investigating allegations that an Uber driver raped one of his passengers. Coincidentally, on Monday Uber was banned in New Delhi following the report of a rape by one of its drivers there. UPDATE: Uber has removed the driver from service and is cooperating with the investigation, the AP reports.
The Ramp Rules
There are workplace rules everywhere -- even if your "workplace" is asking for spare change on highway ramps.
Not Like Mike
Derrick Rose wearing an "I can't breathe" t-shirt showed a willingness to weigh in on polarizing issues more reminiscent of Craig Hodges than Michael Jordan, writes (former GB staffer) Evan F. Moore.
GB Gift Guide: The Sportsman's Club Bar Kit
Bring the Sportsman's Club -- the cozy neighborhood tavern in Humboldt Park known for their craft cocktails and Amaro program -- to your friends with the Sportsman's Club holiday booze kit. Two sets include everything you need to make their signature house cocktail, the Sportsman Cocktail, or a killer Old Fashioned. Both kits include a Japanese jigger, a Yarai mixing glass, a weighted julep strainer, a teardrop barspoon and accompanying spirits. Contact Sportsman's Club for more info and ordering details.
Crowdsourcing Crime Fighting
The Chicago Police Department's updated website lets users report non-urgent crimes, submit tips, and watch crime videos to try and identify suspects. [via]
Going for Gold
Common, BJ The Chicago Kid, and Da Internz are among the Chicagoans nominated for Grammy Awards this year.
24 Hours of Fun
Second City's annual Letters to Santa 24-hour marathon benefit for the Onward Neighborhood House is a week away. From 6pm Tuesday, Dec. 16, to 6pm Wednesday, watch musicians and comedians strut their stuff; tickets are $20 at the door, or watch it online.
Get Out Your Skates
This year's places to ice skate include Parson's Chicken & Fish and the Maggie Daley Park, opening this Saturday.
Let's Go Vertical
A new book on the vertical city concept includes images of super-massive buildings in Chicago and other cities.
Santa's at St. Florian
Santa is living on top of St. Florian School in Hegewisch in an effort to raise funds to save the school from closure. [via]
Maek it Yourself
The "visual album" Maek Pandamonium brought together 15 producers, 70 filmmakers and 10 editors for the first-ever visual album released by an indie label. Read our profile of the label in Transmission.
The Writing on the Wall
The Guardian looks back at the Wall of Respect, a mural constructed in the 1960s to celebrate the black experience that inspired community murals around the world.
GB Gift Guide: Whiskey Taster
Koval Distillery has the perfect gift for whiskey lovers: a gift pack of small bottles of their bourbon, rye and four grain whiskey. It's available at Binny's and plenty of other local liquor stores.
Hate Hoax
A threatening message posted to a University of Chicago student's Facebook page that sparked a federal investigation was actually done by the student himself, not hackers.
Last-Known Eastland Survivor Dies
Marian Eichholz, who as a toddler escaped the infamous 1915 Eastland disaster along with her parents, died last month at age 102.
Return of the Mummy
Field Museum scientists cracked open the coffin of a 2,500-year-old mummy for some long-overdue maintenance.
They're Not #1, But They Don't Care
The Guardian profiles Bronzeville's Shimer College, which was recently ranked as one of the nation's worst based on cost, graduation rate, average student debt and default rate (DeVry and Columbia College also received the same honor). Despite the stats, Shimer seems like a pretty good school.
Kass Gets Out of the Kitchen
Hyde Park native (and former Avec and 312 Chicago chef) Sam Kass, who served as the Obama's personal chef and policy adviser on nutrition, is leaving his White House post at the end of the year.
Can You Hear Me Now?
Activists are suing to find out whether Chicago police intercepted protesters' cell phone conversations. (Previously.)
The Grid: Arkansas Red and His Listeners
"Arkansas Red and His Listeners," the newest installment in our documentary film series, The Grid, listens in with Arkansas Red as he DJs his 30-year-old show, "The Blues Excursion" on WHPK.
Save the Velodrome!
The proposed Chicago Velo Campus is not going to happen, and now even the outdoor velodrome at 86th and South Shore is in danger of being dismantled. Marcus Moore, owner of Yojimbo's Garage, is leading an effort to save it.
CPD is Listening
The Chicago Police Department is using a controversial "stingray" device to monitor and mess with cellular calls by protestors.
Get the Right Stuff to Food Pantries
It's the time of year when people think about donating goods to food pantries, and Jan Deckenbach of Hyde Park & Kenwood Hunger Programs has some thoughts about what food pantries really need. Tip: it's not leftover cooking experiment ingredients.
Furry Convention Interrupted by Chlorine Gas Leak
Among those briefly evacuated overnight from a Rosemont hotel due to a deliberate chlorine gas leak were the attendees of Midwest FurFest, a convention celebrating anthropomorphic animals. Police are investigating.
"I couldn't believe what I was hearing."
A Chicago Police Department escort for today's #BlackLivesMatter die-in and demonstration blared "Sweet Home Alabama" while rolling by Madison and Pulaski.
RIP Brother Mike
Poet, educator, and activist "Brother" Mike Hawkins mentored many media-makers and up-and-coming rappers in Chicago. He passed away from undisclosed causes.
Yo-Yo Ma for the Holidays
Famed cellist Yo-Yo Ma will perform two "pop-up" shows this Sunday -- one at Shops at Northbridge and the other at Christkindel Market.
That's So Billy
In an interview with The Independent, Billy Corgan said he and Kurt Cobain were "the top two scribes, and everybody else was a distant third." He goes on to obliviously accuse Eddie Vedder of making everything about him. [via]
Past Professions
Stars from the Chicago area share where they worked before they got their big break.
"We can't breathe!"
Hundreds of protesters marched around downtown in response to a New York grand jury's decision not to indict the police officer responsible for the death of Eric Garner.
Lowest Rated
24/7 Wall St. calls Illinois the worst-run state in the country based on its poor credit rating, unemployment, housing market, and decreasing population.
GB Gift Guide: Aw, Cute Puppy!
Perpetually Yours Pets makes pillows, prints and accessories featuring fun portraits of popular dog breeds. Owner Rachael Ingram does custom pillows, too.
Extreme Sports this Weekend
Well, not as extreme as they would have been last weekend, but the Grant Park skate park opens Saturday and the Illinois State Cyclocross Championships are Sunday at Montrose Harbor.
"How do the police investigate the police?"
The Daily Beast reports on "the most egregious uses of lethal force by Chicago police" and how such incidents are -- or aren't -- investigated.
GB Gift Guide: Numero Group Treasures
This local record label has it all: compilations of Prince-era Minneapolis funk groups, obscure Americana hard rock (and the accompanying board game), and a bevy of other titles. Currently, you can get $150 worth of selected titles for $100.
Want to Make Some Kid's Day?
Stop by the main post office, 433 W. Harrison St., and pick up a letter to Santa to reply to as part of Operation Santa.
Hot Bags for Any Season
Ingrid Kosar invented the now-ubiquitous pizza delivery bags decades ago, finding a way to keep pies warm that was more practical than other methods, like makeshift backseat ovens.
Old Made New
Landmark buildings like the Old Colony Building are often less profitable, but developers help keep history alive by restoring them and turning them into high-end properties.
Suffering in the System
A Tribune investigation sheds light on abuse suffered by young people living in residential treatment centers run by the state and shares some of their stories.
GB Gift Guide: RIP Hot Doug's
We miss Hot Doug's as much as you do. Thankfully, you can still pick up a t-shirt -- and there's free shipping until Dec. 7.
New Grades for Schools
CPS released its latest school ratings, which were calculated using a new system incorporating test score improvements and other factors.
A Serious Lawn Ornament
In the market for a 50-foot-tall neon Z? The sign marking "Z" Frank Chevrolet on Western Avenue is slated for demolition and its owner is offering it up for free.
GB Gift Guide: Losing Ugly
These Bears ugly sweaters are for die-hard fans only -- and considering how bad the team is this year, that's probably all that's left willing to wear them.
Green Line on Yellow
The new Green Line CTA stop at McCormick Place has been delayed until early next year.
Crowdfunding for Moms
Mumzy is a new crowdfunding platform specifically for mothers looking to start new projects.
It's OK to Complain
Chicago's weather over the past year was the coldest its been in 110 years, and it was one of only four places on Earth with colder than average temperatures in 2014.
No Need to Hover
Harmful pathogens really can't survive in public restrooms, according to University of Chicago researchers, so feel free to touch that faucet and toilet seat.
Black in America
Northwestern professor Alexander G. Weheliye reflects on the complicated realities facing black Americans in the era of Barack Obama and Michael Brown.
The Claus on the Bus Goes Ho, Ho, Ho
Santa Claus rides a CTA bus like the rest of us, because reindeer may get great gas mileage but parking a sleigh is impossible. You can join him on the holiday bus.
Charting the Backlog
"Rahm vs. Nature" tracks how the City is faring in its never-ending war against potholes.
United States of X: Dating Profile Edition
According to Mashable and Match.com, "neighborhood" is the most common descriptive word in Illinoisians' (read: Chicagoans') profiles.
Winter Tour Without Your Coat
Don't worry, though, you'll still stay warm on Chicago Elevated's Heavy Duty Winter Tour, because you'll be loaned a battery-powered heated coat from Milwaukee Tools.
GB Gift Guide: Techno-Gramophones
Perhaps you've always coveted Andrew Bird's awesome gramophone-style horn speakers from Specimen but couldn't afford the $2,400-and-up price tag. Well, Gramovox Bluetooth speakers, originally launched via Kickstarter, are just $399.
Ivory Tower in the Trailer Park
Brianne Bolin, an adjunct instructor at Columbia College, is the poster child for a story on academics who are barely scraping by in Elle magazine.
Going for Gold
Life Itself and Finding Vivian Maier are among 15 documentaries in the running for an Oscar.
Very Important Porkbelly
VIP tickets for the 2015 Baconfest go on sale at noon Wednesday. There will once again be three sessions, on April 17 and 18.
Documenting the Wreckage
Rearview contributor Noah Vaughn shares views of Chicago's derelict buildings and its cameos in motion pictures.
Plots Against Oprah
Judicial Watch reports Oprah Winfrey's Harpo Studios were the target of a foiled terrorist plot in 2009. (via)
A Hallowed Mission
What remains of the defunct Museum of Holography may be sold off, but a fundraiser this Thursday aims to raise enough money to keep the collection in Chicago.
Organic Beauty
Filmmakers Jordan Olshansky and Jason Stanfield spent time with artist Bruce Riley in his studio, watching him paint with resin.
Anybody Need a Tiny Goat?
I mean, who doesn't? There's a baby pygmy goat available for free in River North -- with cute little sweater and harness -- if you act fast. (Thanks, Nell!) Oops, too late, the listing has been deleted. Here's a screenshot. It was a prank anyway.
"We are all taking steps that urgent, not desperate, times call for."
According to the New York Times, many US law schools -- including Northwestern University School of Law -- are battling plunging enrollment figures by increasing financial aid and accepting students with lower academic scores and grades.
Warmer than the Polar Plunge
She-Nannigan's is hosting a Santa Speedo Run on Saturday to raise money for the Chicago Diabetes Project. Strip down to your skivvies for a 1-mile run down Rush Street and back up Michigan Avenue.
GB Gift Guide: Dibs
Replica Chicago has plenty of great Chicago-themed gifts, but I like their Dibs ornament the best.
RIP Salvatore Ferrara II
The former CEO of Ferrara Pan Candy, Salvatore Ferrara II, passed away on Thanksgiving after a long battle with esophageal cancer.
Empty Spaces
Over 200 cars were towed when the winter overnight parking ban went into effect Monday morning.
Markets Open
Christkindlmarket isn't the only seasonal shopping destination; Chicagoist maps out holiday markets around Chicago.
Camera Mounted Police
Some Chicago cops will start wearing body cameras as part of a pilot program slated to begin within 60 days.
Garages Hacked
Customers' credit card information was compromised by a data breach affecting ten parking garages in Chicago.
GB Gift Guide: A Stash of 'Staches
Local toysmith Shawnimals has created Moustachio, a plush, handmade mustache (with a mustache, no less!) for the kid on your gift list.
Everything is Awesome
Build the "Foxy Blox" LEGO strip club with a new unofficial kit by Citizen Brick, complete with scantily clad figures, stripper poles and dollar bills (via).
Breaking the Silence
Two Chicagoans share their story of suing the Chicago Police Department after they were assaulted by two off-duty cops.
GB Gift Guide: Chicago's White Socks
Local company Sock Union has some great Chicago flag athletic socks, and Skyline Socks sells pairs with the city's skyline in several colorways that might remind you of a certain team.
No Bulls@#t, It Was All Bulls@#t
Local gamemakers Cards Against Humanity took Black Friday in a new direction, removing their party game from online sales and instead selling boxes filled with bull feces (which quickly sold out).
Our Young Leaders
The 2014 Crain's 40 Under 40 list is out. It includes everyone from a mixologist to a microbial ecologist.
Wintertime Parking Headaches Begin Today
While you were sleeping, the annual Winter Overnight Parking Ban began early this morning and runs through March 31. Parking on designated arterial streets from 3-7am (regardless of snow) will get your wheels towed ($150 and an additional daily storage fee), plus a $60 ticket. Additionally, a second (but not as strongly enforced) ban that tickets (or relocates) cars parked on designated streets when snowfall is over 2 inches goes into effect today.
Hope your car is where you left it.
