City Cast Chicago

While National Mental Health Awareness Month is coming to an end, the Chicago Department of Public Health will be continuing its Healing Arts programming, which combines art and wellness. One program is the Audio Pharmacology Sound Spa, and it happens Mondays at the Englewood Mental Health Clinic. Creator Shannon Harris talks with host Jacoby Cochran about what audio pharmacology is, how the spa works, and why it’s worth giving a try. Want some more City Cast Chicago news? Then make sure to sign up for our Hey Chicago newsletter. Follow us @citycastchicago You can also text us or leave a voicemail at: 773 780-0246 Learn more about our sponsors: Chicago Department of Business Affairs and Consumer Protection TimeLine Theatre Company Become a member of City Cast Chicago. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE

The days are getting warmer, making this the perfect time to get yourself something sweet and cold. Host Jacoby Cochran and the City Cast Chicago team pull up to Mario’s Italian Lemonade in Little Italy to try the iconic frozen dessert. From ice cream to snow cones, they discuss the best (and most overrated) frozen treats in Chicago. Spots mentioned: Fannie May Lickity Split Shawn Michlle’s Homemade Ice Cream Richard’s Super Premium Ice Cream Two Shades Cafe Amorino The Original Rainbow Cone JoJo’s Shake Bar Margie’s Candies Jeni’s Ice Creams Kilwins Baba’s Famous Steak and Lemonade We’re doing our annual survey to learn more about our listeners. We’d be grateful if you took the survey at citycast.fm/survey — it’s only 7 minutes long. You’ll be doing us a big favor. Plus, anyone who takes the survey will be eligible to win a $250 Visa gift card and City Cast Chicago swag. Want some more City Cast Chicago news? Then make sure to sign up for our Hey Chicago newsletter. Follow us @citycastchicago You can also text us or leave a voicemail at: 773 780-0246 Learn more about our sponsors: Chicago Department of Business Affairs and Consumer Protection TimeLine Theatre Company Become a member of City Cast Chicago. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE

It’s the last week of the spring session for Illinois lawmakers. Hundreds of bills have already passed but there are some big things still on the agenda including the state budget, CPS funding, and a potential transit merger. Executive producer Simone Alicea and host Jacoby Cochran break down the critical bills making their way through Springfield. Plus, we look at results from our Hey Chicago weekly news quiz and we want to see your cicada pictures. Good News: Dim Sum & Drag We’re doing our annual survey to learn more about our listeners. We’d be grateful if you took the survey at citycast.fm/survey — it’s only 7 minutes long. You’ll be doing us a big favor. Plus, anyone who takes the survey will be eligible to win a $250 Visa gift card and City Cast Chicago swag. Want some more City Cast Chicago news? Then make sure to sign up for our Hey Chicago newsletter. Follow us @citycastchicago You can also text us or leave a voicemail at: 773 780-0246 Learn more about our sponsors: Chicago Department of Business Affairs and Consumer Protection TimeLine Theatre Company Become a member of City Cast Chicago. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE

For the first time in nearly two centuries, Illinois is home to federally recognized tribal land. The Prairie Band Potawatomi signed paperwork in April allowing the Department of Interior to place 130 acres in west suburban DeKalb County into a trust, giving the tribe sovereignty over the land. Host Jacoby Cochran talks with Prairie Band Chairperson Joseph Rupnick about the generations-long fight to return to the land and what this means for the Potawatomi and for Illinois. Good news: Mole de Mayo Want some more City Cast Chicago news? Then make sure to sign up for our Hey Chicago newsletter. Follow us @citycastchicago You can also text us or leave a voicemail at: 773 780-0246 Learn more about our sponsors: Chicago Department of Business Affairs and Consumer Protection TimeLine Theatre Company Become a member of City Cast Chicago. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE

Earlier this week representatives from the Chicago Teachers Union and Chicago Public Schools were together in Springfield to lobby the state for increased education funding. CPS schools are currently missing out on over $1 billion based on the state’s evidence-based funding formula. WTTW’s City Hall reporter Heather Cherone and author Arionne Nettles break down the significance of this joint move. Plus, we continue grading Mayor Brandon Johnson’s first year, discuss ongoing tensions between Chicago Police and its oversight agency, and look at the Bears’ regular season schedule. Good News: Farmers markets, Argyle Block Party & American Writers Festival Want some more City Cast Chicago news? Then make sure to sign up for our Hey Chicago newsletter. Follow us @citycastchicago You can also text us or leave a voicemail at: 773 780-0246 Become a member of City Cast Chicago. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE

Janet Jackson, The Rolling Stones, Pink, Pearl Jam, and other icons will play Chicago’s biggest arenas and stadiums at hefty prices this summer. But luckily for Chicagoans, we’ve got artists playing every day at some of the coolest venues all around the city that won’t break the bank. City Cast’s Caroline Patton runs Chicago Show Calendar which she updates weekly with the latest music shows happening. Last spring, she shared her picks for best music venues in Chicago. Here are some shows the City Cast Chicago team is excited for: Jacoby: Freddie Gibbs & Madlib @ The Salt Shed: May 19th, 7pm Simone: Stay Outside @ Beat Kitchen: May 19th, 7pm Sidney: Charli XCX @ Radius: June 12th, 7pm Michelle: Cortex @ Thalia Hall: July 15th, 7pm Want some more City Cast Chicago news? Then make sure to sign up for our Hey Chicago newsletter. Follow us @citycastchicago You can also text us or leave a voicemail at: 773 780-0246 Become a member of City Cast Chicago. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE

For the first time in over 200 years, two broods of cicadas are emerging simultaneously. While we have answered what cicadas are, where they’ll emerge, and if they bite, author and Newcity dining and drinking editor David Hammond is more concerned with how they taste. The author shares with host Jacoby Cochran some of his favorite cicada recipes. Want some more City Cast Chicago news? Then make sure to sign up for our Hey Chicago newsletter. Follow us @citycastchicago You can also text us or leave a voicemail at: 773 780-0246 Become a member of City Cast Chicago. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE

A former Loretto Hospital executive has been charged with helping to embezzle money from the West Side hospital during the COVID crisis. And a new report from ProPublica and the New York Times sheds light on an IRS audit of Donald Trump and his eponymous Chicago tower that could cost the former president $100 million. Host Jacoby Cochran and executive producer Simone Alicea discuss these latest schemes. They also discuss your grades for Mayor Brandon Johnson’s first year, a charming cicada video from DuPage County, and the hype around new Bears quarterback Caleb Williams. Good News: AAPI Restaurant Week Want some more City Cast Chicago news? Then make sure to sign up for our Hey Chicago newsletter. Follow us @citycastchicago You can also text us or leave a voicemail at: 773 780-0246 Become a member of City Cast Chicago. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE

It has been one year since Brandon Johnson was inaugurated as Chicago’s 57th Mayor. Host Jacoby Cochran sits down with the mayor to reflect on his first year in office and his plans for CTA, affordable housing, the Bears, and much more. Want some more City Cast Chicago news? Then make sure to sign up for our Hey Chicago newsletter. Follow us @citycastchicago You can also text us or leave a voicemail at: 773 780-0246 Become a member of City Cast Chicago. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE

Hey there! We are excited to share the trailer for a new special limited series from our friends and colleagues at City Cast Denver. If you’re a fan of what we do at City Cast, you’ll want to check it out: You’ve probably heard a story about Congresswoman Lauren Boebert. Like, how she got kicked out of a production of “Beetlejuice” for vaping and groping her date. Or, that time she heckled President Biden during his State of the Union address. Throughout it all, she keeps winning elections and amassing followers, so it’s hard not to watch her meteoric rise and wonder: What does it mean for the future of American Politics? Host Bree Davies and Executive Producer Paul Karolyi have been covering Boebert’s wildest moments on City Cast Denver for years. And with only a month until her make-or-break primary on June 25, they’re talking to former friends and rivals, supporters and detractors, real people throughout Colorado who have been affected by her work in Congress, and hopefully Lauren herself. It’s a new limited series from City Cast, because no matter how you feel about her, you have to admit, it feels like Lauren Boebert Can’t Lose. Subscribe to Lauren Boebert Can’t Lose wherever you get your podcasts. Our first episode drops on May 15.

After an eight-day pro-Palestinian protest at University of Chicago, police cleared the encampment on early Tuesday. Invisible Institute’s Trina Reynolds-Tyler and City Bureau’s Sarah Conway are here with the latest. Plus, we discuss the new director of Illinois Department of Children and Family Services, celebrate Chicago’s 2024 Pulitzer Prize winners, and send some Mother’s Day love. Want some more City Cast Chicago news? Then make sure to sign up for our Hey Chicago newsletter. Follow us @citycastchicago You can also text us or leave a voicemail at: 773 780-0246 Learn more about our sponsors: Hubbard Street Dance Aligner Experts Become a member of City Cast Chicago. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE

Summer dance season is almost here. And if Taylor Bennett’s new single “2 Much” is any indication, Footwork is going to be a big part of summertime Chi this year. Born on Chicago’s West and South Sides, the art form pairs fast-paced dancing with uniquely Chicago house and juke music. We talk to Dr. ShaDawn Battle, a lifelong dancer and Footwork historian, about the roots of the genre and where you can find it today. Dr. Battle is the creator of the docuseries “Footwork Saved My Life” and is the artist-as-instigator at Chicago’s National Public Housing Museum. Good News: Public Narrative Community Media Awards Want some more City Cast Chicago news? Then make sure to sign up for our Hey Chicago newsletter. Follow us @citycastchicago You can also text us or leave a voicemail at: 773 780-0246 Learn more about our sponsors: Hubbard Street Dance Aligner Experts Become a member of City Cast Chicago. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE

It’s farmers market season, and we’re here to talk about what you need to know to make the best of it. Executive producer Simone Alicea and host Jacoby Cochran talk about what to do and what not to do when it comes to planning ahead, picking up what’s in season, and their favorite markets in the city. Good news: Wicker Park Plant Sale and Garfield Park Conservatory Annual Seedling Sale Want some more City Cast Chicago news? Then make sure to sign up for our Hey Chicago newsletter. Follow us @citycastchicago You can also text us or leave a voicemail at: 773 780-0246 Learn more about our sponsors: Hubbard Street Dance Aligner Experts Become a member of City Cast Chicago. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE

Pro-Palestinian protests have continued at several college campuses across Chicago despite an increased presence of police and counter-protesters. Dozens of protesters were arrested over the weekend at the School of the Art Institute. The City Cast team breaks down the latest. Plus, the temporary Bally’s casino is pulling in less money than expected, and we show love to some amazing teachers in honor of National Teacher Day. Good News: Invisible Institute and City Bureau won a Pulitzer Prize for their investigation “Missing in Chicago” and Invisible Institute and USG Audio won for their podcast series “You Didn’t See Nothin.” Want some more City Cast Chicago news? Then make sure to sign up for our Hey Chicago newsletter. Follow us @citycastchicago You can also text us or leave a voicemail at: 773 780-0246 Learn more about our sponsors: Hubbard Street Dance Aligner Experts Become a member of City Cast Chicago. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE

You might not hear them yet, but cicadas have already started emerging in Illinois. Over the next few weeks, overlapping broods are expected to emerge in a rare event where we could see trillions of cicadas. And while the insects might be loud and even a little gross, Insect Asylum founder Nina Salem says we should welcome our new neighbors. Salem tells executive producer Simone Alicea about why the cicadas are here, their role in our ecosystem, and why we should learn to appreciate the bugs. Some good news: It’s teacher appreciation week. Tell us about a teacher you want to show love to. Want some more City Cast Chicago news? Then make sure to sign up for our Hey Chicago newsletter. Follow us @citycastchicago You can also text us or leave a voicemail at: 773 780-0246 Learn more about our sponsors: Hubbard Street Dance Aligner Experts Become a member of City Cast Chicago. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE

This week as pro-Palestinian protests picked up on campuses across the country, Chicago area students also began setting up encampments demanding universities divest from direct support of Israel as the death toll in Gaza surpasses 34,000 people. Crain’s Chicago reporter Leigh Giangreco and Block Club Chicago’s Maxwell Evans are here with the latest, including what student organizers are saying and a response from the Midwest Anti Defamation League. Plus, former gubernatorial candidate Darren Bailey is accused of colluding with a super PAC, an iconic Greater Grand Crossing Blues club is reopening, and did y’all hear that new Kendrick dis? Good news: Call and Response Bookstore Grand Opening Want some more City Cast Chicago news? Then make sure to sign up for our Hey Chicago newsletter. Follow us @citycastchicago You can also text us or leave a voicemail at: 773 780-0246 Become a member of City Cast Chicago. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE

Applications are now open for the Mayor’s Youth Commission, a group of Chicagoans ages 14 to 19 who work to advise the mayor and city leaders. Last year, host Jacoby Cochran sat down with Benjamin Kagan, chair of the commission’s public health group, and Precious Adedokun of the community safety group to learn what it’s like to be a teenager advising public officials and city actors. The next information session for the Mayor’s Youth Commission is on May 20. Good news: The Chicago Critics Film Festival Want some more City Cast Chicago news? Then make sure to sign up for our Hey Chicago newsletter. Follow us @citycastchicago You can also text us or leave a voicemail at: 773 780-0246 Become a member of City Cast Chicago. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE

If you're new here, welcome! We’ve put together a starter pack for you, with episodes and articles to welcome you to the City Cast Chicago community. May means summertime Chi is almost here — depending on who you ask, that is. In the meantime, we’ve got the tips you need to make the most of May in Chicago from Cinco de Mayo to Memorial Day. Need a mocktail recommendation? We’ve got you. Looking for some self-care tips for Mental Health Awareness Month? We’ve got that, too. For even more tips on how to make the most of May in Chicago, check out Hey Chicago’s take on what to do this month. We’re powered by our members, who enjoy an ad-free version of the show. Find out more about how to become a member of City Cast Chicago. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info here. Reach us at [email protected].

State lawmakers are considering a proposal that would merge CTA and other regional transit agencies. Executive producer Simone Alicea and producer Michelle Navarro talk about how it would work. They also discuss former Fotrox and Dom’s Kitchen and Market employees filing a lawsuit following the stores’ closure. Plus, we talk about your favorite and most-hated grocery store chains and how birria and deep-dish are coming together for Cinco de Mayo. Some Good News: Adler at Night Want some more City Cast Chicago news? Then make sure to sign up for our Hey Chicago newsletter. Follow us @citycastchicago You can also text us or leave a voicemail at: 773 780-0246 Become a member of City Cast Chicago. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE

There’s been a lot of grocery news lately: Foxtrot and Dom’s closing. The Kroger-Albertsons merger. Not to mention all the communities in Chicago that don’t even have a grocery store. But big grocery chains aren’t the only option for Chicagoans to get fresh food. Matthew Ruffi is the board president of Chicago Market and senior program director for Link Up Illinois. He tells host Jacoby Cochran about some grocery alternatives and how to bring more options to your neighborhood. Want some more City Cast Chicago news? Then make sure to sign up for our Hey Chicago newsletter. Follow us @citycastchicago You can also text us or leave a voicemail at: 773 780-0246 Become a member of City Cast Chicago. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE

Calls to oust CTA President Dorval Carter continue after a bus driver died behind the wheel after sitting unconscious for nearly an hour. Block Club Chicago’s Manny Ramos and Chalkbeat Chicago’s Samantha Smylie sat with host Jacoby Cochran to talk about what happened. They also discuss how Illinois and Chicago count migrant students, if Illinois lawmakers will extend the school closure moratorium, and the Bears stadium mock-ups. Want some more City Cast Chicago news? Then make sure to sign up for our Hey Chicago newsletter. Follow us @citycastchicago You can also text us or leave a voicemail at: 773 780-0246 Become a member of City Cast Chicago. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE

We often hear about the Tribune Tower, the Chicago Cultural Center and of course the once-called Sears Tower, but do you ever wonder about the buildings that aren’t aesthetically pleasing to the eye? Tour guide Mike McMains from Tours with Mike designed the Ugly Buildings Tour to highlight the eyesores that hide behind and between Chicago’s famous skyscrapers and structures. Mike tells host Jacoby Cochran what makes a building ugly and his favorites. Want some more City Cast Chicago news? Then make sure to sign up for our Hey Chicago newsletter. Follow us @citycastchicago You can also text us or leave a voicemail at: 773 780-0246 Become a member of City Cast Chicago. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE

With one week left in Earth Month, you might be thinking about ways to make more environmentally conscious choices. One option is to eat less meat. Luckily, Chicago has long been a hub for vegan and vegetarian restaurants. Soul Veg City in Chatham has been serving up vegan soul food for more than 40 years. Earlier this year, executive producer Simone Alicea talked with owners Lori Seay and Arel Brown about their favorite spots in the city and how to start small. Good News: Harold Washington Library Record Sale Want some more City Cast Chicago news? Then make sure to sign up for our Hey Chicago newsletter. Follow us @citycastchicago You can also text us or leave a voicemail at: 773 780-0246 Become a member of City Cast Chicago. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE

City Council approved $70 million Friday to care for new arrivals. That’s in addition to the $150 million allocated in this year’s budget. Executive producer Simone Alicea and producer Michelle Navarro discuss the latest. Plus, we’ve got picks for Independent Bookstore Day and we’re talking about the pest control business and why Chicago could be a great place to start one. Want some more City Cast Chicago news? Then make sure to sign up for our Hey Chicago newsletter. Follow us @citycastchicago You can also text us or leave a voicemail at: 773 780-0246 Become a member of City Cast Chicago. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE

Chicago’s most threatening natural disaster is severe flooding, the Illinois Answers Project reports. Many residents are still recovering from last summer’s torrential rain storms that experts say are only getting more frequent. Reporters Meredith Newman and Alex Nitkin have been working on a series about how the city, county, and state have prepared (or not prepared) for these disasters. They talk with host Jacoby Cochran about why Chicago is so prone to floods, what can be done to mitigate damage, and why government agencies have struggled to coordinate on this problem. Some Good News: The Reader’s Best of Chicago party Want some more City Cast Chicago news? Then make sure to sign up for our Hey Chicago newsletter. Follow us @citycastchicago You can also text us or leave a voicemail at: 773 780-0246 Become a member of City Cast Chicago. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE

The Back of the Yards neighborhood is still recovering from a mass shooting that took place over the weekend. WTTW’s Joanna Hernandez and freelance writer for the Windy City Times Jake Wittich discuss what happens next. They also tell host Jacoby Cochran about the latest news stories like Chicago Pride Parade downsizing and a Belmont Cragin pastor who opened his doors to a group of migrants, among them an artist. Good news: Chicago Social Butterflies, Sky’s New Natty Champ Duo, CineYouth Film Festival Want some more City Cast Chicago news? Then make sure to sign up for our Hey Chicago newsletter. Follow us @citycastchicago You can also text us or leave a voicemail at: 773 780-0246 Learn more about our sponsors: “Purpose” at Steppenwolf Become a member of City Cast Chicago. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE

Is the Jane Addams museum haunted? How did Chance the Snapper end up in the Humboldt Park Lagoon? And why do so many Chicagoans hate ketchup? WTTW’s Geoffrey Baer investigates some of the city’s strangest stories and attempts to solve its most baffling mysteries in Chicago Mysteries, a new special that premiered Tuesday. Baer tells host Jacoby Cochran which tales were the most fun to explore and which ones remain unsolved. Good News: D-Composition x Love Is Want some more City Cast Chicago news? Then make sure to sign up for our Hey Chicago newsletter. Follow us @citycastchicago You can also text us or leave a voicemail at: 773 780-0246 Learn more about our sponsors: “Purpose” at Steppenwolf Become a member of City Cast Chicago. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE

We’ve gifted it to someone, maybe gone to a tasting, or seen a vineyard before, but how much do we know about wine? Wine enthusiast and “Wine Convo Generator” author Chasity Cooper tells host Jacoby Cochran the best places for a tasting in the city and nearby wine trips to take. Plus, she teaches us some wine vocabulary to sound a little more like an expert the next time you go to a restaurant or your local bottle shop. Spots mentioned: Easy Does It Deep Red Wine Merchants Beautiful Rind Webster’s Wine Bar Pops for Champagne The Wine Goddess City Winery Chicago Winery Good Funk Figo Wine Bar Uvae J9 Wine Bar Middle Brow Love Cork Screw Illinois Sparkling Company Plus, more in Cooper’s wine guide Want some more City Cast Chicago news? Then make sure to sign up for our Hey Chicago newsletter. Follow us @citycastchicago You can also text us or leave a voicemail at: 773 780-0246 Learn more about our sponsors: “Purpose” at Steppenwolf Become a member of City Cast Chicago. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE

Pro-Palestinian protesters blocked traffic on I-190 to O’Hare airport Monday morning. Host Jacoby Cochran and executive producer Simone Alicea talk about what happened and discuss coming protests at the Democratic National Convention. We also respond to more of your CTA complaints and dreams, including this mock-up CTA plan and ideal CTA screen layout. Plus, what to do in Chicago when you have a bad day. Good news: One Earth Film Festival Want some more City Cast Chicago news? Then make sure to sign up for our Hey Chicago newsletter. Follow us @citycastchicago You can also text us or leave a voicemail at: 773 780-0246 Learn more about our sponsors: “Purpose” at Steppenwolf Become a member of City Cast Chicago. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE

Illinois lawmakers are considering a bill to create a statewide guaranteed income program that would provide $1,000 monthly payments to qualified residents. If it passes, the state would follow Chicago, Evanston, and Cook County, which have recently run pilots providing these no-strings-attached cash benefits. “Guaranteed” is a podcast that follows participants in these pilots across Chicagoland. Earlier this year, “Guaranteed” host Eve L. Ewing told host Jacoby Cochran what guaranteed income is, how it works, and shared the stories of some of the people who have received payments from these programs. Good News: WNBA Draft Tonight Want some more City Cast Chicago news? Then make sure to sign up for our Hey Chicago newsletter. Follow us @citycastchicago You can also text us or leave a voicemail at: 773 780-0246 Learn more about our sponsors: "Purpose" at Steppenwolf Become a member of City Cast Chicago. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE

Earlier this week, the Civilian Office of Police Accountability released body cam footage, numerous bystander videos, and 911 calls related to police shooting and killing Dexter Reed during a traffic stop in March. Invisible Institute’s Maira Khwaja and Crain Chicago’s Corli Jay are here to discuss the fallout including COPA questioning officers’ accounts of what led to the traffic stop. Plus, we discuss the latest court ruling regarding ongoing Obama Center construction, a new small business incubator in Englewood, and Market Box Chicago celebrates four years of mutual aid. Want some more City Cast Chicago news? Then make sure to sign up for our Hey Chicago newsletter. Follow us @citycastchicago You can also text us or leave a voicemail at: 773 780-0246 Become a member of City Cast Chicago. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE

New CTA schedules dropped over the weekend, but riders probably won’t see much difference. That’s despite promises in February from CTA head Dorval Carter that the agency would restore service to pre-pandemic levels by the end of the year. While we wait to see if service will improve, producer Michelle Navarro talked with CTA riders about their transit pet peeves. Good news: Market Box Chicago Want some more City Cast Chicago news? Then make sure to sign up for our Hey Chicago newsletter. Follow us @citycastchicago You can also text us or leave a voicemail at: 773 780-0246 Become a member of City Cast Chicago. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE

Food halls with multiple vendors have proliferated around Chicago the past several years. But to be honest, no one on the City Cast Chicago team had given them much thought. Then, a listener texted about a new food hall on the North Side, so we decided to make a food hall guide. Host Jacoby Cochran, executive producer Simone Alicea, and newsletter editor Sidney Madden visited six spots and they talk about what to eat, what to know before you go, and if they’ll come back. Spots mentioned Revival Food Hall Urbanspace 88 Marketplace Chicago French Market X Market Gangnam Market Some good news: Chicago Tea Festival Want some more City Cast Chicago news? Then make sure to sign up for our Hey Chicago newsletter. Follow us @citycastchicago You can also text us or leave a voicemail at: 773 780-0246 Become a member of City Cast Chicago. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE

Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson is hoping to keep the expansion of O’Hare Airport on track. Host Jacoby Cochran and executive producer Simone Alicea talk about what’s happening at the country’s fourth-busiest airport, how we got here, and what’s next. We’re also watching for a massive emergence of cicadas this month and we discuss your parking complaints. Good news: Chicago Latino Film Festival Want some more City Cast Chicago news? Then make sure to sign up for our Hey Chicago newsletter. Follow us @citycastchicago You can also text us or leave a voicemail at: 773 780-0246 Become a member of City Cast Chicago. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE

Last month, the city of Chicago filed a lawsuit against gun manufacturer Glock, arguing that the company has done nothing to prevent individuals from modifying their popular semi-automatic handguns into fully automatic weapons. ProPublica’s Midwest reporter Vernal Coleman tells host Jacoby Cochran about a similar lawsuit in Gary, Indiana, where the city has been trying to hold gunmakers accountable for the illegal sale of guns for 25 years. We look at how this ongoing case could set a precedent in Chicago and what to expect. Good news: The Other Art Fair Want some more City Cast Chicago news? Then make sure to sign up for our Hey Chicago newsletter. Follow us @citycastchicago You can also text us or leave a voicemail at: 773 780-0246 Learn more about our sponsor: “Purpose” at Steppenwolf Become a member of City Cast Chicago. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE

Chicago’s first school board elections take place this November. But now that we have a district map, election plan, and potential candidates are gathering signatures, one big question remains: Will school board members eventually be paid for their service? Currently, state law prohibits paying board members, but host Jacoby Cochran asks professor Arionne Nettles and Tribune’s Gregory Royal Pratt if Illinois should reconsider this in order to create a more diverse and inclusive candidate pool. Plus, we are looking ahead at NASCAR’s July street race, Mayor Johnson’s plan to convert downtown offices into apartments, initiatives to make Ramadan more eco-friendly, and two new Chicago books to read this spring! Books you should check out: The City is Up for Grabs: How Chicago Mayor Lori Lightfoot Led and Lost a City in Crisis is available now. We Are The Culture: Black Chicago’s Influence on Everything is available for pre-order, out April 16. Our episode where we attended iftar at the Muslim Community Center. Want some more City Cast Chicago news? Then make sure to sign up for our Hey Chicago newsletter. Follow us @citycastchicago You can also text us or leave a voicemail at: 773 780-0246 Learn more about our sponsor: “Purpose” at Steppenwolf Become a member of City Cast Chicago. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE

We see them everywhere, and Chicagoans may think of them as “rats with wings,” but do pigeons get a bad rap? Host Jacoby Cochran and producer Michelle Navarro visit a Great Lakes Pigeon Rescue foster home to learn more about our feathery friends and why they deserve love and care. Good news: The Big Kid Show at Dorian’s tonight at 8 p.m. Want some more City Cast Chicago news? Then make sure to sign up for our Hey Chicago newsletter. Follow us @citycastchicago You can also text us or leave a voicemail at: 773 780-0246 Learn more about our sponsor: “Purpose” at Steppenwolf Become a member of City Cast Chicago. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE

Fine dining can be intimidating and expensive, but Chicago is home to many award-winning restaurants that stand out. Last year, we talked to lifestyle journalist Ari Bendersky, writer of Something Glorious newsletter, to learn more about Chicago’s creative and expansive fine dining scene. He tells host Jacoby Cochran about his favorite spots and shares tips for those who are looking to have their first fine dining experience. Good News: The Sound of Silent Film Festival Want some more City Cast Chicago news? Then make sure to sign up for our Hey Chicago newsletter. Follow us @citycastchicago You can also text us or leave a voicemail at: 773 780-0246 Learn more about our sponsors: “Purpose” at Steppenwolf Become a member of City Cast Chicago. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE

It's April, which means it’s street sweeping season. Producer Michelle Navarro joins host Jacoby Cochran to talk about what you need to know to avoid getting a ticket. Plus, we’re digging into a new report analyzing data from 911 calls made in 2022, which indicates that most of the calls weren’t related to urgent safety needs. Also, water taxis have returned to daily service for the first time since the pandemic. We mentioned this interview we did with Inspector General Deborah Witzburg, “Why Do Chicagoans Have to Complain to Get Things Done?” What's the worst part of parking in Chicago? Let Us Know Your Thoughts! Good News: Latine Theatre Artist Week Want some more City Cast Chicago news? Then make sure to sign up for our Hey Chicago newsletter. Follow us @citycastchicago You can also text us or leave a voicemail at: 773 780-0246 Learn more about our sponsor: “Purpose” at Steppenwolf Become a member of City Cast Chicago. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE

From the art that’s moving us to the events we’re watching to the bites we’re dreaming about, host Jacoby Cochran, executive producer Simone Alicea, and producer Michelle Navarro have your guide to what’s going on this month in Chicago. Plus, Simone and Michelle play a little April Fools’ joke on Jacoby. Events mentioned: Chicago Latino Film Fest Sweet Gnome Chicago Solar Eclipse C2E2 Expo Chicago The Art of our Storytellers: Selections from the Johnson Publishing Company Collection at The DuSable Museum White Sox Game Cubs Opening Day Sticky Kiss Cinnamon Rolls Brasero Howard Street Carnaval Want some more City Cast Chicago news? Then make sure to sign up for our Hey Chicago newsletter. Follow us @citycastchicago You can also text us or leave a voicemail at: 773 780-0246 Learn more about our sponsors: “Purpose” at Steppenwolf Become a member of City Cast Chicago. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE

It has been over a week since the polls closed in the Illinois primary, but there’s still no official winner in the Democratic primary for Cook County State’s Attorney. The race between Eileen O’Neill Burke and Clayton Harris III is separated by less than 1700 votes. Election officials have until April 2 to finish counting mail-in ballots. WTTW’s Heather Cherone and Chalkbeat Chicago’s Becky Vevea tell host Jacoby Cochran why this race highlights a new election normal. Plus, we are talking about the elected school board, tensions between police chief and COPA, and Uncle Julio’s sudden closure in Lincoln Park. Spots we never want to see go: Spinning J, The Bagel, and Dan’s Hot Dogs. Good news: BreadHead Bakery and Shedd’s New Otter Pup Want some more City Cast Chicago news? Then make sure to sign up for our Hey Chicago newsletter. Follow us @citycastchicago You can also text us or leave a voicemail at: 773 780-0246 Become a member of City Cast Chicago. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE

Spring is here which means biking in the city is looking a lot more enjoyable. Whether you are a seasoned cyclist or just starting out, shopping for a bike can be stressful with all the choices the city has to offer. Host Jacoby Cochran talks to Liam Ouweleen from The Recyclery, a bike repair co-op in Rogers Park to learn the ins and outs of bike shopping, tips on where to go, and the basics on how to care for it. A few places to get a bike: Working Bikes West Town Bikes Uptown Bikes Blackstone Bicycle Works Good news: Spring Trans Health and Wellness Summit Want some more City Cast Chicago news? Then make sure to sign up for our Hey Chicago newsletter. Follow us @citycastchicago You can also text us or leave a voicemail at: 773 780-0246 Become a member of City Cast Chicago. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE

We’re about halfway through Ramadan — the Muslim holy month marked by charity, spiritual reflection, and daily fasting. With some 350,000 Muslims estimated to call Chicago and Illinois home, we visited the Muslim Community Center in Old Irving Park for a community iftar. Iftar refers to the evening meal when fasts are broken each day. Host Jacoby Cochran talks with lifelong member Amjad Quadri about what the mosque is serving up and how Ramadan is about more than fasting. Other events to check out: CAIR Taste of Ramadan March 28 IMAN community iftar April 3 Want some more City Cast Chicago news? Then make sure to sign up for our Hey Chicago newsletter. Follow us @citycastchicago You can also text us or leave a voicemail at: 773 780-0246 Become a member of City Cast Chicago. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE

It’s been a week, but the election is not over yet. As of this recording, just over 2000 votes separate the candidates for Cook County State’s Attorney. The race between Eileen O’Neill Burke and Clayton Harris III remains too close to call as more mail-in ballots are counted. Executive producer Simone Alicea and host Jacoby Cochran discuss how both candidates have responded to the tightening race. Plus, we look at Mayor Johnson’s latest funding pushes and budget-friendly honeymoon options near Chicago. Good news: Respect the Mic Want some more City Cast Chicago news? Then make sure to sign up for our Hey Chicago newsletter. Follow us @citycastchicago You can also text us or leave a voicemail at: 773 780-0246 Become a member of City Cast Chicago. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE

A new study shows that more than two-thirds of kids under 6 in Chicago might be exposed to lead-contaminated water. That could be because the city has nearly 400,000 lead water service lines, the most of any city in the country. Axios’ Monica Eng has been closely following Chicago’s lead pipe removal efforts. In one of our very first episodes, she told us how the city ended up with so many lead lines. We’re revisiting that conversation, and Monica returns with an update on what’s happened since. Want some more City Cast Chicago news? Then make sure to sign up for our Hey Chicago newsletter. Follow us @citycastchicago You can also text us or leave a voicemail at: 773 780-0246 Become a member of City Cast Chicago. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE

With thousands of ballots still being counted, the fate of the highly contested Bring Chicago Home tax referendum remains unclear. As of Thursday afternoon, the referendum has about 20,000 more no votes and is seemingly headed towards defeat. Freelance writer Natalie Christan-Frazier and Block Club Chicago’s Melody Mercado join host Jacoby Cochran to discuss what this result could mean for the mayor’s progressive agenda moving forward. Plus, we are looking at U.S. Rep. Danny Davis’ latest election win, the city's denial of DNC protests permits, and how Lollapalooza is celebrating 20 years in Chicago. Where to Find Chicago's Best Coffee Shops Good News: “We Are The Culture: Black Chicago’s Influence on Everything” Want some more City Cast Chicago news? Then make sure to sign up for our Hey Chicago newsletter. Follow us @citycastchicago You can also text us or leave a voicemail at: 773 780-0246 Become a member of City Cast Chicago. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE

March Madness means basketball is on the brain, which makes it a good time to revisit how the sport has influenced fashion. While the Fighting Illini men’s and women’s teams play in Champaign today, we’re heading back to Sneakerhead University in the Loop. Host Jacoby Cochran and former City Caster Carrie Shepherd met up with creator Shay Belvin last year to learn why she started the exhibition that showcases sneaker culture. Good news: Moth GRANDslam Championship Want some more City Cast Chicago news? Then make sure to sign up for our Hey Chicago newsletter. Follow us @citycastchicago You can also text us or leave a voicemail at: 773 780-0246 Become a member of City Cast Chicago. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE

Voters headed to the polls yesterday to cast their ballots for Democratic and Republican nominees for local, state, and federal offices. The City Cast Chicago team recaps some of the key races including president, Congress, and Cook County state’s attorney. Some Good News: The Newberry Library’s Writers on Writing series Want some more City Cast Chicago news? Then make sure to sign up for our Hey Chicago newsletter. Follow us @citycastchicago You can also text us or leave a voicemail at: 773 780-0246 Become a member of City Cast Chicago. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE

It’s primary election day! Between tonight and early tomorrow we will hopefully know the results of some key congressional races, some highly contested county races, and the fate of Bring Chicago Home. We’re reminding you of some of the key races we’re watching. Plus, the city has started evicting migrants from shelters, and it seems the Bears have made their quarterback decision. Good news: Chicago Show Cal Want some more City Cast Chicago news? Then make sure to sign up for our Hey Chicago newsletter. Follow us @citycastchicago You can also text us or leave a voicemail at: 773 780-0246 Become a member of City Cast Chicago. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE

From rats in the alley to problem landlords, the first thing you’ll often hear is, “Call 311.” But while complaining may help get your problem solved, is it really the best way for the city to provide services? A new advisory from the inspector general’s office suggests Chicago could do better. Inspector General Deborah Witzburg sits down with host Jacoby Cochran to talk about how Chicago could improve its services, what the inspector general’s office does, and if it makes a difference in what she calls the city’s “deficit of legitimacy.” Want some more City Cast Chicago news? Then make sure to sign up for our Hey Chicago newsletter. Follow us @citycastchicago You can also text us or leave a voicemail at: 773 780-0246 Become a member of City Cast Chicago. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE