City Cast Chicago

If you’ve heard it once, you’ve heard it a thousand times: Construction in Chicago sucks. This year’s road and highway projects are a major headache, with traffic up over last year and drivers complaining about outrageous commute times. We’re discussing particular pain points around the city with Melody Mercado of Block Club Chicago and Charles Preston with Injustice Watch. Alongside host Jacoby Cochran, the group also discusses ongoing efforts to help arriving asylum-seekers, appealing your property tax bills, and summer plans you need to add to your calendars: The Black Ensemble Theater’s “The Real Housewives of Motown” opens this weekend! Imagine Englewood’s Peace Fest: One Love Edition will be Saturday, June 3! The Hoodosie, Chicago’s block optic and radical news podcast, returns Saturday, June 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 Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE

Memorial Day is the perfect excuse to take a trip, whether it be for the whole weekend or just the day. That’s why we are revisiting our conversation with Thrillist’s Meredith Heil from last summer breaking down the best spots around the Midwest within driving distance. Plus, we hear some suggestions form City Cast readers. 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 Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE

Though the legislative session was supposed to end last week, lawmakers are still in Springfield working on a state budget and a few other outstanding issues. One of those lawmakers is Rep. Nabeela Syed, a Democrat from northwest suburban Palatine. At 24 years old, Syed is the youngest Democrat in the state House. She joins host Jacoby Cochran to recap her first session, which has left her surprisingly optimistic about the state’s future. 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 Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE

While the scheduled end of the spring legislative session has come and gone, Illinois lawmakers have until July 1 to approve a district map for Chicago’s new elected school board, which will be on the November 2024 ballot. This process has drawn a lot of criticism from parents and advocates who argue the proposed maps don’t accurately reflect CPS demographics. Lead producer and map enthusiast Simone Alicea joins host Jacoby Cochran to break down the latest coming out of Springfield. Plus, we are listening to some of your “Chicago Icks” and debating which are better: Rooftops or patios? (Take Our Hey Chicago Survey!) Make sure you check out our Best Alfresco Dining Spots at our Hey Chicago newsletter. Subscribe now for the latest in news and events! Follow us @citycastchicago You can also text us or leave a voicemail at: 773 780-0246 Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE

Ahead of the summer travel season, the Biden administration announced it would propose new rules requiring compensation for air passengers if they end up stranded, and it’s the airline’s fault. That’s in addition to a push in Congress for a “passengers’ bill of rights.” Given that nearly 8 million people traveled through O’Hare and Midway airports in May alone last year, Scott Keyes the potential new rules should be welcome news for Chicago travelers. Keyes helps people find inexpensive flights through his site Going, and he tells host Jacoby Cochran about passenger compensation, being stranded at O’Hare, and his top tip for finding a cheap flight. Some news: Check out an open House on street improvements in Englewood tomorrow from 3:30-6:30 p.m. at Kennedy King College. 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 Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE

Mayor Brandon Johnson was sworn in earlier this week with a memorable inauguration ceremony. Now the 57th mayor of Chicago gets busy on pushing his progressive agenda through a City Council with a lot of new faces. To help break down some of those key campaign promises, we are joined by Alex Nitkin from the Illinois Answers Project and poet and South Side Weekly editor Chima “Naira” Ikoro. Alongside host Jacoby Cochran, the trio also look at the Bears' Arlington Heights move, this week’s National Ride of Silence, and the neighborhood festivals we are excited for! Plus, have you seen Naira’s latest TikTok series about her “Chicago Icks?” If not, watch it now and tell us YOUR Chicago "icks” or Chicago red flags. Send a text or voicemail at: 773 780-0246 City Cast Chicago is looking for our next lead producer. 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 Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE

The hit show “The Bear” dropped a new trailer this week ahead of its highly anticipated return for season 2 next month, and it’s got us hungry for a good old-fashioned Chicago Italian beef sandwich. Longtime food critic Kevin Pang has eaten his share of juicy sandwiches, but he wanted to know how to turn a good Italian beef into the best Italian beef. Pang sets out to answer this question in his podcast “Proof” from America’s Test Kitchen and he told us in January what he found. 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 Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE

Zayd Dohrn was born underground and on the run from the FBI. His parents, Bernadine Dohrn and Bill Ayers, were leaders of the Weather Underground — a radical leftist group born in the 70s that declared war on the United States and fought alongside anti-war activists and Black Panthers. Zayd Dohrn‘s podcast Mother Country Radicals asks his parents hard questions about their storied and revolutionary past, including their role in the bombing at the Pentagon on May 19th, 1972. Dohrn tells host Jacoby Cochran while he was familiar with the chronology of his parent’s history, the podcast opened his eyes to a side of his parents and the movement he never knew. Some news: The 2023 Riot Fest Lineup is out. Registration is open for the city’s learn to bike 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 Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE

Humorist Samantha Irby has made a career out of oversharing, from her start as a blogger in Chicago’s lit scene to becoming a New York Times bestselling essayist. Her new collection “Quietly Hostile” spins personal horrors like bathroom emergencies and mortifying dates into comedy gold that makes readers feel less alone. Irby talks with host Jacoby Cochran about why her stories resonate and her advice for younger writers looking to do the same. Irby will be talking about her new collection at 7 p.m. Thursday at the Mundelein Auditorium in Rogers Park. Some Good News: Chicago Cabaret Week continues tonight at City Winery near Fulton Market. 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 Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE

Brandon Johnson will be inaugurated as the 57th mayor of Chicago this morning, officially bringing a close to the Lori Lightfoot administration. City Hall reporters Mariah Woelfel from WBEZ and Heather Cherone from WTTW talk to host Jacoby Cochran about Lightfoot’s legacy, what grade they’re giving the one-term mayor, and what they’re expecting as Johnson makes his way to the fifth floor. Chicago Writer Says WGA Strike Isn't Just a Hollywood Problem Chicago Bears announce new schedule 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 Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE

Earlier this week Mayor Lightfoot issued a state of emergency as hundreds of asylum seekers are arriving to Chicago daily. Block Club Chicago’s Quinn Myers and lead producer Carrie Shepherd discuss the latest on the ongoing humanitarian crisis, the city’s struggle securing money, and the scramble to provide resources. Plus, we are asking what the end of the COVID-19 emergency declaration means for Illinois, previewing the future City Council hierarchy, and sending farewell wishes to one of City Cast Chicago’s founding members! You know what Lincoln Park’s May Fest and Buckingham Fountain mean? It’s almost Summer! 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 Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE

Beginning in 2019, two names dominated headlines and became a love story Chicago could get behind. Monty and Rose were piping plovers who came to nest, and fell in love, at Montrose Beach. Piping plovers are an endangered species, but birders and other volunteers began protecting Monty and Rose, and eventually their offspring, while educating the public about the tiny birds. City Cast Chicago producer Simone Alicea went to Montrose Beach with bird monitor Ann Hetzel Gunkel to learn more about piping plovers, and asks: “Why should we care about about these birds?” Some Good News: Check out the online auction for the Carole Robertson Center for Learning's annual gala 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 Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE

Both the White Sox and Cubs are having disappointing seasons so far. Which means no Chicago baseball fan is happy right now. And, there are very few Chicagoans will admit they root for both the White Sox and Cubs. The tension between the two ball clubs may be Chicago’s most well-known rivalry. One person who has lived on both sides of the fence is Len Kasper. Kasper just began his third season as the radio voice of the Sox, but before that he was with the Cubs for 15 years. Host Jacoby Cochran sat down with Kasper during his first Sox season in 2021 to talk about the significance of the crosstown rivalry. 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 Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE

Mayor Lori Lightfoot began her final week in office with a farewell address Monday. She touted her accomplishments on spurring development on the city’s South and West sides and her handling of the COVID-19 pandemic. But there were some things she left out of her speech, too. Lead producer Carrie Shepherd and producer Simone Alicea join host Jacoby Cochran to break down the speech and discuss what we think Lori Lightfoot’s legacy will be. Mayor-elect Brandon Johnson's committee leaders Special Olympics Spring Games schedule 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 Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE

More than 8,000 asylum-seekers, many from Venezuela, have arrived in Chicago since last fall. Unfortunately, the lack of coordination at every level of government has left many migrants without basic survival resources and services to make the transition once they get to Chicago. Plus, the city’s plan to open local shelters have run into pushback as residents across the city feel left out of the process. To better understand the nature of this crisis and what every day Chicagoans can do, host Jacoby Cochran talks to Block Club Chicago’s Madison Savedra and Little Village Community Council president Baltazar Enriquez about what newly-arrived asylum-seekers need. Some news: Catch free tennis lessons at Chicago parks this month. 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 Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE

The “ComEd Four” trial ended earlier this week when four former executives and lobbyists for the utility company were found guilty on all corruption and bribery charges. The case was billed as the biggest Illinois corruption trial in more than a decade. Now, that title and focus is likely to shift to next year’s corruption trial involving former Illinois House Speaker Michael Madigan, whose voice, shadow, and legacy loomed large over these proceedings. WTTW’s Amanda Vinicky and WBEZ’s Dan Mihalopoulos join host Jacoby Cochran to give their reactions on the trial’s outcome. The trio also discuss unionization efforts among state government staffers, PPP fraud allegations against one of Chicago’s most profitable restaurants, and some good news on the pitch and in the garden. 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 Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE

After negotiations with studios stalled, the Writers Guild of America officially went on strike this week. The writers strike may be seen as something only affecting Hollywood or New York, but members of the WGA write shows we all watc, and they’re not writing new ones until studios meet some of their demands for better pay and job security. Plus, WGA East has about 80 members based in Chicago. Zayd Ayers Dohrn is one of them. Dohrn is a playwright and Director of the MFA in Writing for the Screen and Stage at Northwestern University, and he tells host Jacoby Cochran why the union’s fight is so critical right now. 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 Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE

All four defendants in the “ComEd Four” trial have been found guilty on corruption charges, including a nearly decade-long scheme to bribe former Illinois House Speaker Michael Madigan in exchange for legislation favorable to the utility giant. When the trial began in March, WBEZ politics reporter Dave McKinney explained why it was Illinois’ biggest corruption trial in over a decade and how the scheme affected anyone who gets an electricity bill. This conversation originally aired March 20, 2023. 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 Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE

It’s National Small Business Week, and we are sharing love for some of our favorite neighborhood businesses. The city is also hosting webinars for current and prospective business owners all week, and pointing folks to the Shop Local website which has tons of resources. Plus, the Chicago Public Library has announced three new branches coming to Woodlawn, Back of the Yards, and Humboldt Park. Lead Producer Carrie Shepherd, producer Simone Alicea and host Jacoby Cochran have the details and discuss all the great things to do at your local library. Some of your pizza recs: Fat Chris's Pizza and Such Edwardo's Kitchen 17 Other links mentioned: Our Beverly Neighborhood Guide Our Guide to Vegan Takes on Chi Classics 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 Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE

Last week, Cook County State’s Attorney Kim Foxx announced she will not be seeking a third term next year. Foxx was first elected in 2016 on a reformist agenda, supporting the end of cash bail, going after wrongful convictions, and expunging records for low level marijuana charges. However, she also faced constant criticism, with leaders blaming her office for spikes in crime. WBEZ criminal justice reporter Patrick Smith talks with host Jacoby Cochran about Foxx’s legacy. Some good news: It’s farmers market season. 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 Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE

More than 7,000 mostly Venezuelan asylum seekers have arrived to Chicago from other states since last fall, many of them sent here by bus, train, or plane with no access to shelter, food, or medication. The scramble among state and city officials to provide resources and financial support continues as new arrivals take shelter at O’Hare and in police stations. Host Jacoby Cochran is joined by WBEZ’s Susie An and Northwestern professor Arionne Nettles to talk about that as well as Mayor-elect Brandon Johnson’s plan for youth employment, financial aid struggles for college students, and problems at Urban Prep Academy. And of course they share some goooood newwwws, including a showcase from Deeply Rooted Dance and a happy birthday to our favorite podcast host. Also be sure to check out Monica Eng’s James Beard-nominated profile of former Tribune food critic Paula Camp. 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 Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE

Deep-dish pizza is polarizing for tourists, newbies, and longtime Chicagoans. It’s mockingly referred to as a casserole rather than pizza, but some love the thick, crusty base filled with gooey cheese and topped with sauce. Most Chicagoans will tell you it’s not their go-to and that “real” Chicagoans opt for thin crust, tavern-style pizza. Host Jacoby Cochran talks to some deep dish fans and foes and pushes back on what it even means to be a “real” Chicagoan. Plus, some spots to check out if you’re fan. 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 Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE

Last year, Lucy Westlake became the youngest American woman to summit Mount Everest. She previously broke the world record for youngest female to climb to the highest points in all 50 states. She’s also climbed the highest points on four of the seven continents. Now Lucy is preparing to climb the second highest and “most savage” mountain in the world, K2 in Pakistan. We’re revisiting our conversation with Westlake who called City Cast producer Simone Alicea before and after climbing Mount Everest! These conversations were originally published May 3 and May 19, 2022. Some news: Check out Denim Day events from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. today at City College campuses to support survivors of sexual assault. 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 Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE

The list of Park District summer programs was released Monday, so the competitive process of registration begins May 1. If you’ve been through the process or know anyone who has tried to sign a kid up for one of the many available programs, you know it is no walk in the park. We’ve got details for interested parents and guardians. Plus, we are breaking down the city’s latest efforts to recruit teen and adult lifeguards, and talking about some of our favorite parks to visit in the city. Stories mentioned: Chicago Parents Camp Out for After School Child Care Former Lifeguards Say Beaches Were a Culture of Abuse Public Pools Can Be Safe Havens…If They’re Open 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 Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE

Mayor-elect Brandon Johnson was in Springfield last week to pitch his mayoral agenda to Illinois lawmakers, including increased state funding for schools, more tax revenues for Chicago, and improved access to youth employment. But how likely is Johnson to find allies at the state capitol for his plans? WTTW reporter Amanda Vinicky gives host Jacoby Cochran the latest on the legislative spring session. 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 Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE

Both Mayor Lori Lightfoot and Alderman Ed Burke had their last meeting in City Council this week. Lightfoot was defeated in February, and Burke, the longest serving alderperson in Chicago history, is retiring after being indicted on corruption charges. In May, City Hall will look a lot different as more than a dozen new alders and mayor-elect Brandon Johnson are sworn in. So what does the change of guard mean for Chicago? WTTW’s Heather Cherone and Block Club Chicago’s Atavia Reed talk to host Jacoby Cochran about that, and also break down the continued fallout of Walmart abruptly leaving Chatham, the landmarking of Promontory Point, and the return of the Cherry Blossoms. 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 Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE

Nearly 100 years ago this week, the “National Barn Dance” premiered on WLS Radio in Chicago. The show introduced country and western music to a national audience — yes, even before Nashville. Journalist Mark Guarino’s new book “Country and Midwestern: Chicago in the History of Country Music and the Folk Revival” goes deep into the city’s country music roots. Guarino talks with producer Simone Alicea about the creation of the country/western genre, the politics of Chicago’s folk scene, and how the city’s country and folk influences continue today. 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 Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE

From shows to festivals to bars to shops, there are plenty of easy ways to empty out your wallet on a busy spring day. So how do you have fun in Chicago without breaking the bank? The City Cast team, including host Jacoby Cochran (South Side), lead producer Carrie Shepherd (Near West Side), producer Simone Alicea (North Side) and marketing coordinator Jermaine Thomas (South Loop), planned their perfect days under $50, and we decide who had the most fun. And trust us, we covered a lot of ground! Some news: Families can now apply online for free preschool programs for the 2023-2024 school year. Check out this calendar for registration events. Some good news: Check out the Redveil and Femdot show at Lincoln Hall and The Great Thinkaz Paper Route pop-up in River West. 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 Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE

With taxes on the brain today, we have designated the entire week as “Personal Budget Week” in our daily newsletter Hey Chicago. The City Cast team will be the first to tell you they are not experts when it comes to budgeting, so lead producer Carrie Shepherd talked to NerdWallet writer Kimberly Palmer about some budget basics. And the team examines their own financial habits because whether you’re dreaming of a big trip or buying a house, or you’re just trying to get by or out of debt, the first step is having a plan. Want some more City Cast Chicago news? Then make sure to sign up for our Hey Chicago newsletter. Volunteer with South Side Master Gardener: Text Gregory Bratton: 773-738-8969 Attend an Online Poetry Workshop: Do You Haiku? Follow us @citycastchicago You can also text us or leave a voicemail at: 773 780-0246 Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE

In 1997, a 13-year-old Black kid from the South Side named Lenard Clark was beaten into a coma by a gang of white boys as he rode his bike through the Bridgeport neighborhood. The hate crime made national news with figures like President Bill Clinton providing commentary. But his talking points, like many in the media in the weeks following Clark’s beating, were hastily focused on reconciliation and forgiveness. A new podcast “You Didn’t See Nothin” reexamines Clark’s story to explore how racial segregation, powerful connections, and media narratives shaped this tragedy. We talk with host Yohance Lacour who says this event and the aftermath also changed his life forever. "You Didn’t See Nothin” is produced by USG Audio and the Invisible Institute. You can binge all 7 episodes of “You Didn’t See Nothin” now wherever you get your podcasts. Some news: Check out upcoming public forums on districts for Chicago’s new elected school board and the search for a new police superintendent. Plus, check out a mini film fest for Earth Day. 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 Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE

We’re coming to you on a Saturday with a special episode from The Moth, the arts organization that’s dedicated to true, first-person storytelling. At their live Mainstage events, storytellers work with a director and craft their experiences into a 10-minute story for the stage. Today, one of those stories by City Cast Chicago host Jacoby Cochran. Jacoby recorded this in Harlem in ______ . Some of the stories recorded on stage air on The Moth Podcast and The Moth Radio Hour. This story aired on The Moth Radio Hour in an episode titled “Location, Location, Location” that published on March 6. If you have a story to tell like I did, you can share it on The Moth Pitchline or attend one of their monthly open-mic StorySLAMs in Chicago.

Chicago and Illinois leaders secured the bid for Chicago to host the 2024 Democratic National Convention, Walmart announced it’s closing four locations across the city, and the Bulls have a little more life left in them! Host Jacoby Cochran breaks down those stories with The Triibe co-founders Morgan Elise Johnson and Tiffany Walden. 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 Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE

The new movie “Air” tells the story behind Michael Jordan’s debut shoe, the Air Jordan 1, nearly 40 years ago. Its groundbreaking launch sparked a wave of innovations across shoe companies and squarely placed Chicago as a leader in sneakerhead culture. If you’re not familiar, a sneakerhead is someone who collects, trades, or admires sneakers. For many, it is about so much more than a shoe. It’s about the design process, the story, the swagger, the nostalgia, and sometimes the hype. Host Jacoby Cochran visits Sneakerhead University, an interactive gallery and workshop in the Loop, with owner Shay Belvin to talk about Chicago’s place in sneaker history and her personal love for the culture. Some news: The Chicago Humanities Spring Festival begins today. 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 Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE

The Blackhawks’ final game of the season is tomorrow after the team failed to make the playoffs for the third season in a row. But across the NHL, one issue that’s come up, again and again, is how teams are and are not celebrating LGBTQ Pride Nights at games. And Chicago wasn’t immune from the controversy when the team announced they would not wear the Pride-themed warmup jerseys due to “security concerns” for the Russian-born players and their families following Russia’s expansion of anti-LGBTQIA+ legislation in the country. Outside of the United Center, the Chicago Gay Hockey Association (CGHA) has been a welcoming hockey space for over 20 years. Host Jacoby Cochran talks with CGHA Vice-President Brian Hull about the group’s relationship with the Blackhawks and efforts to make hockey more inclusive. Chicago will host the 2024 Democratic National Convention. Jacoby gave his thoughts a year ago! Want some more City Cast Chicago news? Then make sure to sign up for our Hey Chicago newsletter. Follow us on Twitter at @citycastchicago You can also text us or leave a voicemail at: 773 780-0246 Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE

Even before mayor-elect Brandon Johnson is sworn in May 15, he’ll face questions about his plans for city departments and who will lead them. Media and voters focused a lot on policing and public schools during the campaign, but host Jacoby Cochran and lead producer Carrie Shepherd dissect next steps for the Chicago Transit Authority and bike infrastructure, the Dept. of Public Health, and whether the Johnson will revitalize the Dept. of Environment. 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 Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE

It’s Golden Gloves week! The renowned amateur boxing tournament is celebrating 100 years, with championship matches starting Thursday. Host Jacoby Cochran talks with two former Golden Gloves champs, David Diaz and Jorge “George” Pacheco, about what it was like competing and why the tournament is so important to Chicago. Some news: Virtual meeting on the development of DuSable Park in the Loop In-person meetings on Chicago's forthcoming elected school board district map The 39th Annual Chicago Latino Film Festival Queer Art Party at Sleeping Village 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 Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE

The next mayor of Chicago, Brandon Johnson, will be the first mayor from the West Side in 90 years when he is sworn in May 15th. But what will the next few transition weeks look like for the mayor-elect? To discuss, host Jacoby Cochran sits down with Pat Whalen of Good Evening with Pat Whalen, and producer extraordinare Simone Alicea. The trio is also looks at an Englewood protest over a new neighborhood grocery store, the younger and more diverse City Council, and the Chicago Reader's Best of Chicago 2022 results! So where did City Cast Chicago & Hey Chicago finish? 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

House music was born in Chicago's Black and brown LGBTQ communities almost 50 years ago. Now preservationists and historians want to make Chicago’s status as the birthplace of house more official. They’ve proposed a plan to give The Warehouse landmark status. That’s the club in the West Loop where DJ Frankie Knuckles and others mixed sounds of electronic, dance, gospel, and soul to create house. Last year, host Jacoby Cochran spoke with the co-hosts of WNUR’s Vintage House Show, DJ Lori Branch and archivist Lauren Lowery, about the roots of house music, renewed interest in the movement, and the legacy of The Warehouse. Some news: Artists and arts organizations have until May 10 to apply for pandemic relief grants through the state. 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 Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE

The municipal election has felt very long. Because it has been very long. When none of the nine candidates received more than 51 percent of the vote on Feb. 28, there were two candidates left in Tuesday’s runoff. And one of those wasn’t Mayor Lori Lightfoot, the first time in 40 years an incumbent Chicago mayor wasn’t reelected. Now, Chicago prepares for the new Mayor Brandon Johnson. Host Jacoby Cochran, lead producer Carrie Shepherd, and producer Simone Alicea break down the results. 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 Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE

It’s election day! So by tonight, we may know who will be leading the country’s third-largest city as voters cast their ballots in the runoff elections for mayor and City Council. But between voter turnout, back-to-back (-to-back-to-back) trips to the polls, and the timing of our elections, the City Cast Chicago team is wondering if election season needs a rebranding. We also discuss the ongoing rebranding of Northerly Island and check in on Copi a year after it got its new name! You can vote until 7 p.m. tonight! Check with the Chicago Board of Elections for your voter information and the polling places in your ward! 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 Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE

Artificial intelligence is being talked about a lot right now, from fabricating pictures of the Pope, to creating original trippy paintings, to writing whole term papers. ChatGPT is an AI tool that, when prompted with questions or requests, responds with text that looks like it was written by a human. Lead producer Carrie Shepherd, producer Simone Alicea, and host Jacoby Cochran have heard the buzz and are putting ChatGPT through their very own Chicago quiz. And trust us, some of the results may surprise you! 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 Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE

Both mayoral candidates have touted their education bona fides ahead of Tuesday’s runoff election. But what are their plans for the future of Chicago Public Schools and how are they different? WBEZ City Hall reporter Mariah Woelfel and Triibe digital news editor Jim Daley join host Jacoby Cochran to look through the details. We also check in on the new police oversight commission’s efforts to search for a new police superintendent and make the department more transparent, and dive deeper into Paul Vallas’ history of implementing charter schools in districts across the country and his plan to rehire retired Chicago Police officers. Stick around to the end for some good news and your next opportunity to catch Jacoby live at Good Evening with Pat Whalen! 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 Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE

Baseball is back in Chicago. The Cubs open their season at Wrigley Field today against the Milwaukee Brewers, and the White Sox are on the road in Houston before returning to Guaranteed Rate Field Monday. Before it was called Guaranteed Rate, Sox Park had many names. But for 80 years, it was called Comiskey Park. A new documentary looks back at the Sox’s final season at that park. Co-director Matt Flesch talks to host Jacoby Cochran about his love for the team, and why he started this project. Watch “Last Comiskey” free on YouTube. Some News: Block Club's election donor database Bar for Bar: A Celebration of Lyricism & Poetry 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 Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE

Democrats have run Chicago for decades, and the lead-up to the mayoral runoff on April 4 has often been about proving allegiance to the Democratic Party. Cook County Commissioner Brandon Johnson and his supporters call former Chicago Public Schools CEO Paul Vallas a Republican. Vallas denies that and says he’s a lifelong Dem. So what’s it like to be a Republican in Chicago? Lenny Sklaney is president of the Chicago Young Republicans and he tells host Jacoby Cochran it can sometimes feel lonely in Chicago’s political landscape. 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 Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE

Following the heat-exposure deaths of three seniors last year in Rogers Park, the state Senate passed a bill requiring air conditioning at state-funded affordable housing. That’s just one of many bills lawmakers have voted on so far this legislative session. Host Jacoby Cochran, lead producer Carrie Shepherd, and producer Simone Alicea are talking all things Springfield…and spring, as flowers and the city’s art scene begin to bloom. 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 Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE

Voters will choose Chicago’s new mayor next Tuesday, April 4. On the ballot are former CPS head Paul Vallas and former CPS teacher and union organizer Brandon Johnson. Johnson is currently Cook County Board Commissioner for the 1st District, which stretches from the city’s West Side to suburban Maywood. When campaign season began, very few had Johnson as a major candidate. Now he is hoping to become the first Black man to lead Chicago in 40 years. The commissioner lives with his family in Austin, but lead producer Carrie Shepherd and host Jacoby Cochran recently met up with him for an interview at Principle Barbers in North Lawndale. 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 Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE

As summer festival lineups emerge, some Douglass Park neighbors are still protesting Riot Fest’s expected appearance on the West Side in September. Meanwhile, a packed summer schedule means Grant Park will only be open about four days this summer. Host Jacoby Cochran is joined by Tribune music writer Britt Julious and Kelly Garcia with Injustice Watch to talk about what they love about summer fests and some of the problems they pose. They also talk about smog in Chicago, allegations of inhumane treatment at Cook County’s juvenile detention center, and some gooooood news to get you through. 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 Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE

While the Chicago flag is seen everywhere from buildings to tattoos, Illinois’ state flag is less well-known. That’s probably because it’s just not very good, says “Good Flag, Bad Flag” author Ted Kaye. State lawmakers are exploring a flag redesign in hopes more people will fly it. While those recommendations wouldn’t come until next year, Kaye tells host Jacoby Cochran why we should care what our flag looks like and what makes a good 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 Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE

Nobody likes to think about what happens to their bodies after they die, but it’s an important decision. A bill expected to see House vote in Springfield this week would give Illinoisans a new environmentally friendly option: natural organic reduction, also known as “human composting.” Chicago state Rep. Kelly Cassidy is sponsoring the bill and tells producer Simone Alicea about how it works and why she put it in her own will. Some news: llinois lawmakers have until July 1 to draw a new district map for Chicago’s forthcoming elected school board. Offer public comment by drawing your very own map for consideration. Lineups for Lollapalooza and Pitchfork are out now. Check out "The Love Jones Experience" at the Quarry Event Center in South Shore tomorrow night, and go back to listen to our episode about why "Love Jones" belongs in rom-com canon. 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 Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE

Three years ago today, Gov. JB Pritzker’s stay-at-home order went into effect as COVID-19 swept the world. Host Jacoby Cochran, lead producer Carrie Shepherd, and producer Simone Alicea talk about what’s changed since then, including the state of the city’s businesses. Plus, with early voting now open, the team looks at some aldermanic runoffs to watch. Mayoral candidates Brandon Johnson and Paul Vallas take the debate stage tonight at 7p.m. on WGN. There’s also a forum Thursday in Austin. Some good news: Catch Jacoby at Gman Tavern tonight for “Write Club” at 7 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 Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE