City Cast Chicago

Chicago’s Food Truck Festival is ongoing all summer at Daley Plaza — you can catch the next one Friday. But despite this annual summer fest, Chicago’s food truck culture is severely lacking. Eater Chicago editor Ashok Selvam tells host Jacoby Cochran about why food trucks are so rare here and which ones you should check out if you can find them. If you enjoyed today's interview with Chicago Department of Cultural Affairs and Events Program Director of Performing Arts, Mariam Thiam, learn more here. 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 the sponsors of this June 26 episode: Ravinia Festival Babbel Chicago Association of Realtors Become a member of City Cast Chicago. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE

Former Ald. Ed Burke was sentenced Monday to serve two years in prison and pay a $2 million fine. Burke was convicted on racketeering and bribery charges in December after he used his longtime power in City Council to enrich his business, intimidate his opponents, and uphold Chicago’s infamous political machine. We break down Burke’s sentence and what it could mean for future corruption trials. Plus, we discuss some new name changes coming to Chicago Public Schools and see what City Cast listeners have to say. Good news: CHGO Bulls Podcast Live NBA Draft Show in West Loop 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 the sponsors of this June 25th episode: Ravinia Festival Babbel Chicago Association of Realtors Become a member of City Cast Chicago. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE

Earlier this month, President Joe Biden signed an executive order severely restricting asylum claims at the U.S.-Mexico border. As Chicago struggles to provide refuge for new arrivals, we ask Block Club Chicago’s Madison Savedra to break down Biden’s latest moves, the impact it could have on Chicago’s over 40,000 asylum seekers, and where the city is two years since buses first started arriving. Good News: Jean Deaux ‘Nowhere, Fast’ Tour at Lincoln Hall 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 the sponsors of this June 24 episode: Ravinia Festival Babbel Chicago Association of Realtors Become a member of City Cast Chicago. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE

Earlier this week, Mayor Brandon Johnson signed an executive order establishing a reparations task force to create a Black reparations agenda. The task force will examine Chicago policies that have historically disenfranchised Black Chicagoans and suggest measures to address these systemic inequities. The Triibe’s Tonia Hill spoke with residents about how they believe reparations should look. We are also joined by Injustice Watch’s Carlos Ballesteros whose recent investigation into Cook County jail uncovered its deadliest year in a decade. Plus, we discuss ongoing flood recovery, Chief Keef’s return to Chicagoland, and Woodlawn’s second annual Community Benefits Agreement 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 Learn more about the sponsors of this June 21 episode: Ravinia Festival Become a member of City Cast Chicago. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE

Move over summer fests — we’re talking about summer pests. The longest day of the year is also set to be one of the hottest in Chicago, so host Jacoby Cochran and contributor Greta Johnsen talk about ways to beat the heat this weekend, play a game of “burden or delight,” and give us the definitive ranking of Chicago’s creepiest and crawliest pests from rats, to bedbugs, to mosquitoes. Take our survey and tell us which one is the worst. Weekend events: Intro to Embroidery Chinatown Dragon Boat Racing Muddy Waters Museum Front Porch Series Fever vs. Sky at Wintrust Arena Some good news: Join the waitlist to be in the audience for “The Late Show with Stephen Colbert” and “The Daily Show” with Jon Stewart during the Democratic National Convention. 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 the sponsors of this June 20th episode: Ravinia Festival Become a member of City Cast Chicago. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE

Chicago is likely to see temperatures in the 90s all week as a heat dome settles over the midwest. We’ve got the resources you need to stay cool. Plus, executive producer Simone Alicea gives producer Michelle Navarro a City Council quote quiz, and we discuss Chicago’s latest cute animal stories. Stories mentioned: “Resolution calling for Carter’s ouster from CTA gets sidetracked” “Alderman after retaliatory vote stall: ‘If you hit me with a bat, I’m going to shoot you with a gun’” “How much jail time should Ed Burke get? Depends on which City Council member you ask.” Black-crowned night herons at Lincoln Park Zoo Koalas at Brookfield Zoo Chicago Piping plover eggs Panda history 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 the sponsors of this June 18th episode: Ravinia Festival Become a member of City Cast Chicago. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE

We are less than two weeks away from Chicago’s largest LGBTQ+ pride celebration when nearly one million people will make their way to the Northalsted neighborhood for the 53rd annual Pride Parade. However, with a shorter route and fewer participants, we’ve got everything you need to know before the parade kicks off. We are joined by Windy City Times writer and newsletter editor Jake Wittich, who also shares other Pride events to enjoy across the city. Good News: Chicago Public Pools 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 the sponsors of this June 17th episode: Ravinia Festival Become a member of City Cast Chicago. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE

Riot Fest announced Wednesday that it is leaving Douglass Park for SeatGeek Stadium in suburban Bridgeview, blaming the Chicago Park District for the decision. The move comes after years of pushback from the community in North Lawndale despite support from the local alderperson. Riot Fest is Sept. 20-22, which also presents a challenge for the Chicago Red Stars who play at SeatGeek. We are joined by Block Club Chicago’s Jamie Nesbitt Golden and WCIU host Brandon Pope to break down the latest. Plus, we discuss a decline in violent crime statistics, the return of Foxtrot, and play a little summer festival week trivia. Good News: Soft & Tender Concert at Metro and Janet Jackson at the United 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 sponsors: Revolution Brewing Become a member of City Cast Chicago. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE

Thanks to the beer-loving folks over at Revolution Brewing we have been talking about neighborhood summer festivals all week long. But Chicago is also home to two of the biggest music festivals in the country: Pitchfork and Lollapalooza with 20,000 and 115,000 daily attendees respectively. With over 200 music acts between the two, we are trying to create the perfect single-day lineup for both festivals. Host Jacoby Cochran faces off against journalist and music festival enthusiast Katrina Pham. Vote on who you think built the better lineup. 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 the sponsor of this June 13 episode: Revolution Brewing Become a member of City Cast Chicago. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE

It wouldn't be summer fest season if we didn't talk about some of Chicago's amazing food festivals. Host Jacoby Cochran is joined by Dario Durham, the co-host of 77 Flavors of Chicago, a podcast that takes you to the city’s neighborhoods to try the best food and drinks they’ve got. They discuss their perfect food fest lineup and favorite festival bites. Fests Mentioned: Sundays on State: June 16 and July 14 in the Loop Taste of Chicago Neighborhood Pop-Ups (Dates Vary) Juneteenth Village Fest: June 15 in North Lawndale Malt Row Beer Stroll: June 26 in Ravenswood Craft Beer Fest: July 5-7 in Lincoln Park Tacos Y Tamales: July 19-21 in Pilsen Roscoe Village Burger Fest: July 19-21 Taste of River North: July 19-21 Colombian Fest: July 19-21 in North Park Ravenswood on Tap: July 20-21 Bantu Fest: July 27-28 in Hyde Park Taste of Polonia: Aug. 30-Sep. 2 in Jefferson Park Taste of Greektown: Sep. 6-8 Vendors Mentioned: Chicago’s Doghouse Connie’s Pizza Robinson’s Ribs Harold’s Athena 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: Revolution Brewing Become a member of City Cast Chicago. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE

While Chicagoans enjoy thousands of summer options every year, have you ever stopped and wondered just how much goes into making these block, neighborhood, and citywide festivals work? City Cast Chicago host Jacoby Cochran sits down with Neal Heitz, director of event production for the Chicago Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events, to get a behind-the-scenes look into the business of summertime Chi. We’ll be talking summer fests all this week, sponsored by Revolution Brewing. Fests mentioned: Taste of Randolph: June 14-15 in West Loop Maxwell Street Market: Dates vary Bud Billiken Parade: Aug. 10 in Bronzeville Air and Water Show: Aug. 10-11 in Lincoln Park Northalsted Market Days: Aug. 10-11 Good News: Metal Gear at Schubas 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 the sponsor of this June 11 episode: Revolution Brewing Become a member of City Cast Chicago. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE

Summer festival season is here! That’s why we’re bringing you a guide to the neighborhood fests you have to check out and how to make the most of them. Host Jacoby Cochran, executive producer Simone Alicea, and producer Michelle Navarro pick their can’t-miss fests, talk summer planning, and give you tips to stay comfortable during long summer days. We’ll be talking summer fests all this week, sponsored by Revolution Brewing. Fests mentioned: Ravinia Summer Festival: June 7-Sep. 15 in Highland Park Pride Fest: June 22-23 in Northalsted Lyrical Lemonade Summer Smash: June 14-16 at Seat Geek in Bridgeview International Festival of Life: July 4-7 in Hyde Park Jeff Fest: July 12-14 in Jefferson Park Eeeeeeatscon: July 13-14 in West Town Fiesta Del Sol: July 25-28 in Pilsen Wicker Park Fest: July 26-28 Bud Billiken Parade: Aug. 10 in Bronzeville The Great American Lobster Fest: Aug. 10-11 at Navy Pier Throwback Music Fest: Sep. 6-8 in Norwood Park Printer’s Row Lit Fest: Sep. 7-8 in South Loop World Dumpling Fest: Sep. 21 in Logan Square Good news: Movies in the Parks 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 the sponsors of this June 10 episode: Revolution Brewing Become a member of City Cast Chicago. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE

Earlier this week law enforcement officials including Chicago Police Department Superintendent Larry Snelling assured Chicagoans that CPD is prepared for the DNC. However, Inspector General Deborah Witzburg pushed back, explaining, “persistent concerns remain about whether Chicago police officers are prepared to lawfully police the massive protests.” Joining us to break down the latest updates are Chicago Reader news editor Shawn Mulcahy and Tribune sportswriter Shakeia Taylor. Plus, we discuss how Sky players are navigating increasingly toxic media coverage, a mango warehouse in Romeoville, and free Metra rides this weekend. 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: “Black Sunday” at TimeLine Theatre Become a member of City Cast Chicago. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE

Summertime Chi is always busy. So we want to make sure we’re keeping you up to date on the best things to do during these summer weekends. That’s why we’ve enlisted City Cast Chicago contributor Greta Johnsen to put us on the events to check out, talk about parks versus beaches, and get our summer reading list on lock. Events mentioned: Shout OUT: A Tribute to Gays in Gospel Music Pride Skate Party Blues Fest Puerto Rican Fest The Lost Kingdoms The Chicago Archaeopteryx Godzilla vs. Music Box Books mentioned: “Ministry of Time” by Kaliane Bradley “Margo’s Got Money Troubles” by Rufi Thorpe “Nothing to See Here” by Kevin Wilson “There’s Always This Year: On Basketball and Ascension” by Hanif Abdurraqib Check out GRETAGRAM 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: Learn more about our sponsors: “Black Sunday” at TimeLine Theatre Become a member of City Cast Chicago. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE

‘Tis the season for patios, rooftops, and other outdoor dining opportunities in Chicago. The Infatuation’s Adrian Kane and John Ringor give host Jacoby a rundown of the city’s best alfresco dining spots from romantic patios to rooftops where you can actually avoid getting sunburned. Spots mentioned: Mott St Enoteca Roma Hopleaf Bar Soul and Smoke (Avondale) Kimski Rica Arepa Reggie’s Afro Joe’s Tetto Gene’s Sausage Shop Lonesome Rose (Logan Square) Bar Avec Taxim Open Outcry Brewing The Woodlawn Aba Ema Milky Milky Ice Cream Chiu Quon Bakery Sugar Shack Lilac Tiger Red Hot Ranch Dan’s Hot Dogs 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: “Black Sunday” at TimeLine Theatre Become a member of City Cast Chicago. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE

Last Thursday, Mayor Brandon Johnson announced that the Roseland Mental Health Clinic will reopen after 35 years. The city will also add mental health services to a Chicago Department of Public Health clinic in Pilsen in August and inside the Legler Regional Library in West Garfield Park. The City Cast Chicago team breaks down how this announcement delivers on the mayor’s campaign promises and some of the major challenges ahead. Plus we discuss a new initiative to increase remote work downtown and the Chicago Reader’s return to weekly publishing. 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: “Black Sunday” at TimeLine Theatre The City of Chicago's Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events (DCASE) celebrates Millennium Park’s 20th anniversary Become a member of City Cast Chicago. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE

As Summertime Chi heats up, some neighborhoods will be hotter than others. And with those higher temps come bigger risks from extreme heat. Last year we talked with Tribune reporter Sarah Macaraeg, who investigated and mapped these disparities. She told us what she found and explained what the city could do to protect all Chi neighborhoods. Good News: Crosstown Classic at Wrigley 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: “Black Sunday” at TimeLine Theatre Become a member of City Cast Chicago. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE

Chicago Public Schools’ new funding formula moves away from enrollment-based funding to a needs-based approach that they say prioritizes the most vulnerable schools and students. But Chicago Sun-Times education reporter Nader Issa tells host Jacoby Cochran how individual school budgets are a mixed bag, with hundreds of schools expected to see staff and after-school program cuts next school year. We’re also joined by Injustice Watch’s Kelly Garcia to discuss Cook County’s plan to reduce the size of the juvenile detention center, the governor’s push to rebuild two state prisons, and more things we are looking forward to in June. Good News: Karaoke Storytellers This Sunday 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. Can you believe we’re almost halfway through the year? Since time seems to fly even faster in the summer, we’re here with tips to make the most of June in Chicago. We’re making our summer bucket lists, planning our festival season, and staying safe while swimming and boating. 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].

Sick of expensive grocery store eggs and dreaming of ways to avoid them? Living in a big city, you might think there are a lot of rules about keeping chickens and other farm animals in your yard. But Chicago actually has some of the most permissive urban livestock laws on the books. Viviana Okakpu from Advocates for Urban Agriculture tells host Jacoby Cochran about what Chicagoans should know about having livestock in their backyard. 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 at City Cast Chicago have spent a lot of time covering public housing, from the legacy of demolition, to private development on public housing land, to the Chicago Housing Authority’s decades-long waitlists. Now the head of CHA is under fire following investigations from Block Club Chicago into the agency’s scattered-site program. Host Jacoby Cochran talks with reporters Rachel Hinton and Mick Dumke about two properties that exemplify ongoing problems at the CHA. Good news: Peace Fest Englewood 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 Become a member of City Cast Chicago. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE

Earlier this week, City Council voted 34-14 on an ordinance aimed at keeping ShotSpotter, an attempt to reverse Mayor Brandon Johnson’s decision to end the city’s use of the highly controversial gunshot detection system in November. WTTW’s Brandis Friedman and freelance writer Reema Saleh tell Jacoby Cochran about the latest news, including why Illinois wants you to eat this invasive species, updates on cicadas, and how a group of West Siders are launching community gardens throughout their neighborhoods. Good News: Chicago Sky Home Opener 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 City 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

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