City Cast Chicago

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

Week two of “ComEd Four” trial gets underway today. That’s the trial of four former executives and lobbyists who are accused of bribing lawmakers to pass legislation that was favorable to the utility giant. They are also connected to former Illinois House Speaker Michael Madigan, who was considered for decades as the most powerful politician in the state. But the trial should also be of interest to homeowners, renters — anyone who gets an electricity bill — because the alleged corruption affected rates. WBEZ politics reporter Dave McKinney tells host Jacoby Cochran what we’ve learned so far and why this trial matters. Some Good News: The Gene Siskel Film Center is celebrating composer John Williams this 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 Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE

We are joined by the Chicago Reader’s Social Justice Reporter Debbie-Marie Brown and from the Illinois Answer's Project & Better Government Association, Alex Nitkin. Alongside host Jacoby Cochran, the group is talking about some key stories including fire safety in buildings across the city, union efforts at Berlin Nightclub, and the push for City Council to be more independent from the mayor’s office. Plus, we’ve got books, bands, and concert lineups for our goooooddd newssssss!!! 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

Beyonce, Metallica, Drake, Taylor Swift, and others will play Chicago’s biggest arenas and stadiums at hefty prices this Summer. But luckily for Chicagoans, every single day we’ve got artists playing 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. She talks to host Jacoby Cochran about her list of best music venues in Chicago. Shows to Check Out Soon: "Mike" @ Lincoln Hall: March 18th @ 7pm "The Roots" @ The Salt Shed: March 18th @ 7pm "Questlove DJ Set" @ The Salt Shed: March 18th @ 10pm "Betty Who" & "Shea Couleé" @ The Riviera: March 21 @ 730pm "J.I.D" & "Smino" @ The Aragon: March 21 @ 630pm City Cast Chicago's interview with Chicago Dept. of Transportation Commissioner Gia Biagi. 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

Do you think you could solve a murder just by looking at a miniature re-creation of the crime scene? Frances Glessner Lee thought so. The Chicago heiress is known as the “mother of forensic science” for developing the tool that taught law enforcement how to investigate the scenes of unexplained deaths. The historic Glessner House in South Loop, where Lee’s family lived from 1887–1937, now has a life-sized version of one of her miniatures on display, free to view on Fridays and Saturdays through April 14. Producer Simone Alicea visited Glessner House last year and talked with executive director Bill Tyre. This conversation was originally published March 24, 2022. Good News: C2E2 is March 31–April 2! Listen to our episode visiting C2E2’s return to McCormick Place in! 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 can feel like it’s all mayor’s race all the time as we head into the April 4 runoff election, but there’s plenty of other Chicago news to keep an eye on. Oral arguments begin today in the Illinois Supreme Court over the fate of cashless bail. Also in court today are the “ComEd Four,” as the state’s biggest corruption trial in a decade gets underway. And as we dream of warmer days, details are emerging about how downtown will look different this summer because of the NASCAR races set for July. Host Jacoby Cochran, lead producer Carrie Shepherd, and producer Simone Alicea break down what you need to know this week. Binge all episodes and subscribe You Didn’t See Nothin' on Apple Podcasts, or wherever you listen to podcasts. 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

Ahead of the April 4th runoff, mayoral candidates Paul Vallas and Brandon Johnson have made education a major part of their platforms. Johnson is a former public school teacher and organizer with the Chicago Teachers Union. Vallas is a former head of Chicago Public Schools. So it makes sense they’re dipping into those roles as they make the pitch to lead the 4th largest school district in the U.S. at a time when enrollments are dropping and achievement gaps are widening. Longtime education reporters Sarah Karp from WBEZ and Becky Vevea from Chalkbeat join host Jacoby Cochran to break down the candidates’ records on the most pressing issues. 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

Mayoral Candidates Brandon Johnson and Paul Vallas had their first televised debate this week ahead of the April 4th runoff. CEO of Justice Informed Xavier Ramey and Crain’s reporter Corli Jay tell host Jacoby Cochran their reactions to the candidates’ performances and different visions for Chicago. We also breaking down the ongoing protest of the Chicago Fire’s proposed $80 million dollar soccer facility on CHA land, the importance of supporting women in trades, and Chicago fashion designer Joe Freshgoods has opened a new store on the West Side—in a high school. More Info: First debate in the runoff election. Housing Advocates demand meeting with mayoral candidates to stop Chicago Fire leasing public housing land. Fleshing out the numbers behind the rise of Black and Latinè homeownership rates since 2020. Carhartt "For the Love of Labor" program grants organization $255,000 to invest in women in skilled trades. FOIA Fest is this Saturday, the Chicago Headline Club signature training event. Joe Freshgoods opens store inside Michele Clark High School to reward good grades and doing community service work. 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

Most people around the world are familiar with Chicago’s classic foods—Chicago-style hot dogs, deep dish or tavern style pizzas, and Italian beefs. But fewer people are familiar with sweet steaks, Jibaritos, and Akutagawa. Food writers Monica Eng and David Hammond want to change that with their new book “Made in Chicago: Stories Behind 30 Great Hometown Bites.” They join host Jacoby Cochran to to share a little history, recipes, and places to grab some of the best Chicago foods! 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

For the last 20 years, Simeon Career Academy High School basketball has been one of the city’s most dominant sports programs. The team has produced dozens of high school, college, and NBA standouts, including Derrick Rose and Jabari Parker. Coach Robert Smith has led the Simeon Wolverines to eight city league titles and six IHSA state championships, including four in a row from 2009-2013. Chicago Tribune reporter Colleen Kane covered Simeon’s 2013 “like a pro team.” She went back recently and talked to some of those players now—10 years later—as this year’s Simeon squad heads back downstate to compete for another championship this weekend. Vote By Mail Application! 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

Geoffrey Baer has been showing off Chicago’s architecture and natural beauty for decades. First as a docent for the Chicago Architecture Center, and then as the host at WTTW. Baer is out with a new special premiering tonight called “The Most Beautiful Places in Chicago” He tells host Jacoby Cochran what makes a place beautiful to him, and which spots he learned about making this special. "The Most Beautiful Places in Chicago" premieres Tuesday, March 7, on WTTW, Channel 11. 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

Next week, City Council is set to consider ordinances that would crack down on drivers parked in bus and bike lanes downtown and that would require the city to make safety improvements when it resurfaces roads. Making our streets safer and more accessible is going to be a huge task for the next mayor. CDOT Commissioner Gia Biagi tells host Jacoby Cochran what the city is doing now and what she hopes to see in the 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

Chicago Police Superintendent David Brown announced Wednesday he’s resigning effective March 16. Both mayoral runoff contenders Paul Vallas and Brandon Johnson said on the campaign trail they would have replaced Brown if elected. Host Jacoby Cochran talks with lead producer Carrie Shepherd and producer Simone Alicea about other city agencies with vulnerable leaders, as well as how Tuesday’s election broke down by ward, local referenda with overwhelming support, and more people living in the Loop. Plus, the team shares some good news about beautiful places in Chicago and a local show to look forward 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 Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE

Starting Saturday, the Ukrainian National Museum will host workshops on how to write pysanky, also known as Ukrainian Easter eggs. The centuries old practice involves using beeswax, dyes, and real eggs to create elaborate works of art with deep meaning. Host Jacoby Cochran spoke with master pysanky writer Anna Chychula last year about the history of the art form and its cultural significance. This conversation was originally published April 13, 2022. 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

City Cast Chicago is in you feed a little later this morning, so we could bring you the most up-to-date results of the 2023 municipal election. No mayoral candidate passed the 50% threshold needed to secure the seat, so we’re headed to a runoff in April. Some aldermanic races will also be decided then, but we have more on the two mayoral candidates who are moving forward and results from ward races that have been decided. For more results, check out 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 you head to the polls today, we want to offer a little respite from all the political coverage. And what better way to chill out than with a little Chi music? The latest “Sense of Place” series from NPR’s “World Cafe” is all about Chicago. Over the 13-part series, hosts Raina Douris and Stephen Kallao talk about the city’s historic role in genres like gospel and industrial, and interview emerging local artists. They talk with producer Simone Alicea about how community and a DIY attitude make Chicago different from other big music cities. Save Chicago's Free Museum Days in Your Calendar! Jacoby's story "Rich City Skater" will play on the Moth Radio Hour on WBEZ 91.5 Thursday at 9pm and multiple times Saturday. Find out when it plays on your local radio station 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 Looking to advertise on City Cast Chicago? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at chicago.citycast.fm/advertise

Tomorrow, voters will choose who will run the city as they cast ballots for mayor and City Council. But aside from candidates’ plans and positions, we wanted to know why Chicago’s government has looked the same for the last century, with 50 alders representing 50 wards. William Howell is director of the Center for Effective Government at University of Chicago. He talks with host Jacoby Cochran about the trade-offs in our current system and why Chicagoans should care. Check out the center’s series with Crain’s about Chicago’s government “One City, 50 Wards.” Some news: The city treasurer’s office is hosting a virtual tax prep conversation at noon 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

We've got something special for you this weekend. We're sharing the Weekly News Recap from our friends over at WBEZ's daily talk show "Reset with Sasha-Ann Simons." Every Friday, Sasha breaks down the biggest local stories with a panel of journalists, and this week, that panel included City Cast Chicago host Jacoby Cochran. The WBEZ Recap is a great way to stay up to speed on the news that matters here in Chicago and the burbs. Take a listen! You can check out Reset six days a week wherever you get your podcasts, or tune in live between 11-1 every weekday on 91.5 FM, wbez.org or the WBEZ app.

After months of campaigning, commercials, and forums, election day is Tuesday. But we’re wondering: Does the mayoral race have a true front-runner? We brought in two of WBEZ’s best hosts to tackle this question and more. Nerdette’s Greta Johnsen and Reset’s Sasha-Ann Simons are in the building to discuss election season, paid leave for Illinoisans, Black joy, and some more gooooood newwwws! 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

In a blow to Chicago comedy fans, HBO Max announced Tuesday that it would not pick up “South Side” for a fourth season. The show follows various characters — from workers at a rent-to-own store to wannabe rappers to cops — hustling on Chicago’s South Side. As we grieve the loss of this TV gem, we’re revisiting a conversation host Jacoby Cochran had with creators Diallo Riddle (who plays Allen Gayle), Sultan Salahuddin (Simon James), and Bashir Salahuddin (Officer Sandy Goodnight). They tell us how the show stays true to Chicago. This conversation was originally published Dec. 5, 2022. #SaveSouthSide Petition Some good news: Don’t miss the last weekend of Black Restaurant Week and Chicago Theatre 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 Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE

Police district councils are new on the ballot in next week’s municipal election. Voters in each of the city’s 22 police districts will select three councilors, who will work with communities on policing issues and nominate members to a citywide police oversight commission. The Triibe’s Jim Daley has been covering the councils and police oversight extensively. He spoke with host Jacoby Cochran about how the councils are supposed to work. Plus, we hear from an interim member of the Community Commission for Public Safety and Accountability. Check out this voting guide to police district councils. This conversation was originally published Nov. 22, 2022. Tomorrow is the last day to request a vote-by-mail ballot. Check the Chicago Board of Elections site for info on that and any other voting questions. 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

Chicago’s municipal election is one week from today. So how are voters feeling about the biggest issues facing the city? Lead producer Carrie Shepherd and producer Simone Alicea headed to the Triibe’s ballot party on the Near West Side to talk to voters about their questions and concerns. Learn more about Chicago Votes and check out the Triibe’s voting 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

As the Chicago Bears closed on a $197 million property deal in Arlington Heights, Gov. JB Pritzker promised nearly $1 billion for students in his budget address Wednesday. Sun-Times education reporter Nader Issa joins City Cast Chicago’s Carrie Shepherd and Simone Alicea to talk about those stories plus: How communities are responding to a spike in after-school shootings, a study showing why Arab Americans should not be classified as “white” on the census, and how early early voting returns indicate good news for Chi’s voter turnout. 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

When you ask about East Side, many Chicagoans will look at you quizzically and say, “What, like Lake Michigan?” But it’s so much more than that. Once a bustling industrial corridor, East Side and surrounding communities near the Indiana border have become a hub for environmental restoration and the city’s Mexican community. Maya Rodriguez’s family has been in the area for at least three generations. She and host Jacoby Cochran meet at Big Marsh Park to talk about things to eat, see, and do around the Southeast Side. Maya’s recs: Big Marsh Park (Check out Winter Fest on Saturday) Rowan Park Indian Ridge Marsh Edgars Grove/Wolf Lake Calumet Beach Southeast Chicago Historical Society SkyART Tacos El Rey La Cienega Chi Burgerbabi Gina’s Chicken Hienie’s Shrimp House 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

As Feb. 28th approaches, political ads for the municipal elections are only getting more frequent and aggressive. Democratic media strategist Terrie Pickerill explains what goes into making effective political ads, how much it costs, and why we see so many negative ads on TV. Some news: The Chicago Board of Elections has released more detailed information for voters with disabilities about accessible polling places. You have until noon today to vote City Cast Chicago as Best Podcast and Hey Chicago as Best Newsletter in the Chicago Reader’s Best of 2022! Find us under the City Life category. 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

Happy Valentine’s Day! Whether you’ve got a date planned with the love of your life or you’re going solo, the holiday is a reminder that the journey to find love can be long and exhausting, but also exhilarating and joyful. And often it can take many dates. City Cast contributor Leigh Giangreco and host Jacoby Cochran listen to your best and worst date stories and offer their own insight into Chicago’s dating scene. Tomorrow is the last day to vote City Cast Chicago as Best Podcast and Hey Chicago as Best Newsletter in the Reader’s Best of Chicago! Find us under the City Life category. 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

Over the years, the Chicago Bulls have had some of the biggest names in basketball. And while players come and go, the brightest star at the United Center isn’t a player at all. Benny the Bull has danced, dunked, and flipped his way into the Mascot Hall of Fame. City Cast Chicago got to go behind the scenes with Benny to learn what it takes to hype the UC crowd 41 times a season. Some news: Early voting in all 50 wards opens today. Plus, the Lincoln Park and Garfield Park conservatories’ spring flower shows begin this 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

A new film studio in South Shore broke ground this week, and neighbors are excited for the possibilities. Meanwhile, as U.S. Rep. Jesús “Chuy” García paints himself as a progressive in the Feb. 28 mayor’s race, some organizers question his record. Host Jacoby Cochran, Triibe reporter Tonia Hill, and Block Club Chicago’s Maxwell Evans discuss those stories, plus how Chicago will spend federal funds to address houselessness, the plight of residents at a problem building in South Shore, and the opening of a restaurant in Hyde Park that’s set to feature robot servers and jerk chicken Pop-Tarts. 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

We are back with another edition of Re:VIEWS, where we rewatch and break down some classic Chicago films. In the spirit of Valentine’s Day, we are enjoying the 1997 romantic comedy “Love Jones” starring Larenz Tate and Nia Long. Between the poetic plot, amazing soundtrack, and cast’s impeccable on-screen chemistry, it is without a doubt one of Chicago’s smoothest romance movies. Host Jacoby Cochran, producer Simone Alicea, and teacher and “Love Jones” expert Zephanie Battle talk about some their favorite scenes and argue why the film is so much more than a “Black Classic,” but a Classic, period! Vote for City Cast Chicago as best podcast and Hey Chicago as best newsletter in the Chicago Reader’s Best of Chicago under the City Life category. 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