City Cast Chicago

As we get closer to Election Day, you’ve probably seen memes or posts wrongly decrying criminal justice reforms in Illinois as a “purge law.” Among other changes, the SAFE-T Act passed in 2021 abolishes cash bail. It goes into effect in January. Garien Gatewood with the Illinois Justice Project is here to fact-check the misinformation and explain what abolishing money bond really means. A little bit of news: It's the last week to comment on the city's We Will Chicago plan. Some good news: Catch some spooky stories with Jacoby Friday night at the University of Chicago. Hear campfire stories for children at NEIU Saturday. Follow us on Twitter: @CityCastChicago Sign up for our newsletter: chicago.citycast.fm Call or Text Us: (773) 780-0246

Fall is in full swing, but there’s still time to get outside before winter hits. Journalist and naturalist Zack Nauth compiled a list of 20 midwest hiking trails to visit this season all over the prairies, marshes, valleys, and forests near Chicago. Host Jacoby Cochran talks with Nauth about his top picks from that list, what to expect on the trails, and his favorite things about hiking. Places discussed: Cap Sauers Holding Nature Preserve Sag Valley Trail System Swallow Cliff Woods Lakewood Forest Preserves Big Marsh Franklin Creek State Natural Area Nachusa Grasslands Salt Creek Woods Nature Preserve Wolf Road Prairie Nature Preserve Illinois and Michigan Canal News: Where to vote early in Chicago Some good news: Fatimah Asghar at Harold Washington Library. Listen back to our episode with Asghar about writing for Disney's "Ms. Marvel." Follow us on Twitter: @CityCastChicago Sign up for our newsletter: chicago.citycast.fm Call or Text Us: (773) 780-0246 This episode sponsored by the Jane Addams Hull-House Museum. Check out their series of spooky events this month.

The city earmarked $1.2 billion for social services in the 2022 “Chicago Recovery” Budget. But according to WTTW, just $130 million has been spent this year on violence prevention, affordable housing, youth programs, mental health, and helping unhoused Chicagoans. WTTW politics reporter Heather Cherone tells host Jacoby Cochran why so little money has been spent. Plus, Nadia Hernandez, print managing editor for The DePaulia, DePaul University's student newspaper, talks about election season on campus and why students continue to lose faith in CTA. And stick around for rare birds, dorm plants, and new music rounding out this week’s Goooooddd Newwsss! Good News: The Magic Stump WTTW Article “There's a Magic Stump in Central Illinois, and It'll Change the Way You Look at Farmland” New Music: Aang by Pivot Gang Follow us on Twitter: @CityCastChicago Sign up for our newsletter: chicago.citycast.fm Call or Text Us: (773) 780-0246

Shortly before the neighborhood was named one of the coolest in the world by TimeOut, City Cast listener Cat Kliegle reached out to say Avondale is “like Logan Square’s slept-on sibling.” Cat takes host Jacoby Cochran right across the river to Clark Park to talk about how the historically Polish neighborhood has changed. Plus, she gives us her recommendations of things to eat, see, and do, including some recs for the Halloween season. Learn more about Avondale's history as a Polish neighborhood by listening to our episode about Jackowo with Mary Visniewski and Joanna Marszalek. Places discussed: Avondale Coffee Club The Brewed Honey Butter Fried Chicken Staropolska Kurowski Sausage Shop Taqueria Mazamitla La Nonna Joong Boo Market Hairpin Arts Center Puerto Rican Arts Alliance Basilica of Saint Hyacinth Avondale Bowl Bucket O’ Blood: Books and Records Bric-a-Brac Records & Collectibles Books4Free Record Breakers Some Good News: City Bureau Pumpkin Pop-up Follow us on Twitter: @CityCastChicago Sign up for our newsletter: chicago.citycast.fm Call or Text Us: (773) 780-0246

For years, Chicago has grappled with what to do about monuments that fail to recognize the whole truth of the city’s history and memorialize seminal community leaders. The Chicago Monuments Project issued their recommendations this summer for what to do about monuments in the city that feature colonial history and white supremacy. The report included a call for new work. One of the projects receiving a $50k grant will monumentalize Latina history and leaders in Pilsen. Lead producer Carrie Shepherd talks with one of the artists and organizers leading the project—visual artist, photographer, and educator Diana Solís and Hinda Seif, associate professor of sociology and anthropology at the University of Illinois Springfield. Follow us on Twitter: @CityCastChicago Sign up for our newsletter: chicago.citycast.fm Call or Text Us: (773) 780-0246

With Election Day three weeks away, maybe you’re looking for some help making sense of everything that’s on the ballot, especially if you’ve been feeling disillusioned with politics. That’s where the comprehensive Girl, I Guess Progressive Voter Guide may come in. Every election, organizer Stephanie Skora looks at issues through a progressive lens, focusing on candidates and measures that support workers rights, social services, and environmental causes, and more. Skora joins host Jacoby Cochran to talk about her most important issues on the ballot and why it’s critical to participate. Follow us on Twitter: @CityCastChicago Sign up for our newsletter: chicago.citycast.fm Call or Text Us: (773) 780-0246

Eve Ewing’s “1919” has been adapted from the page to the stage this month at Steppenwolf Theatre, with upcoming performances at Chicago parks, juvenile detention centers, and other community spaces. The sociologist, professor, poet, and author chats with host Jacoby Cochran about her award-winning work. They talk everything from the history of the Chicago race riots to the release of her upcoming Marvel comic book in December. Some Good News: Catch Jacoby Cochran hosting for The Moth at FitzGerald’s in Berwyn for their “Grown”-themed event. Follow us on Twitter: @CityCastChicago Sign up for our newsletter: chicago.citycast.fm Call or Text Us: (773) 780-0246 This episode sponsored by the Jane Addams Hull-House Museum. Check out their series of spooky events this month.

Chicago’s new police oversight commission has been slow to hire staff, prompting tough questions from alders and organizers who’ve fought decades for civilian oversight. Host Jacoby Cochran talks about that and other stories from the week with Injustice Watch’s Charles Preston and Chicago Reader’s Kelly Garcia. They discuss Willie Wilson’s efforts to court Latinx voters, alders exploring more independence from the mayor, and Injustice Watch’s judicial voting guide. Plus, they share some good news and their fantasy Halloween costumes. Some Good News: Plans for reopening Memo's Hot Dogs in Pilsen are underway! Fall Chicago Theater is in full swing. Pullman Arts and Culture Fest is presenting a two-day festival this weekend in the Pullman and Roseland neighborhoods. Follow us on Twitter: @CityCastChicago Sign up for our newsletter: chicago.citycast.fm Call or Text Us: (773) 780-0246

The 58th annual Chicago International Film Festival kicked off this week with screenings in venues all over the city — even virtually, in people’s living rooms. The event spans 12 days and spotlights more than 90 features and 60 shorts, from big budget films to international indies to documentaries to, of course, local filmmakers. Reporter Leigh Giangreco is writing all about the festival this year. She talks with host Jacoby Cochran about a few key films with ties to Chicago. Films We Discussed: A Compassionate Spy, directed by Steve James The Year Between, directed by Alex Heller Call Jane, directed by Phyllis Nagy King of Kings: Chasing Edward Jones, directed by Harriet Marin Jones Glass Onion: A Knives Out Mystery, directed by Rian Johnson Devotion, directed by J.D. Dillard 58th Chicago International Film Festival Guide Quick correction: Jacoby and Leigh misidentified the magazine that currently features Jonathan Majors on the cover. It's Men's Health magazine. Follow us on Twitter: @CityCastChicago Sign up for our newsletter: chicago.citycast.fm Call or Text Us: (773) 780-0246

For years, Illinois’ Black Panther Party worked in neighborhoods across Chicago in places like churches, high schools, and theaters. Leila Wills is the executive director of the Historical Preservation Society of the Illinois Chapter of the Black Panther Party, and she’s leading the effort to officially landmark some of the spots across Illinois and Chicago where the party was active. Host Jacoby Cochran talks with Leila about these landmarks, the importance of restoring them, putting history into context – and her personal connection as the daughter of Illinois Black Panther Party members. Event: “Meet the Illinois Chapter of the Black Panther Party” at the Chicago History Museum on Thursday, October 13 at 7:00 p.m Hosted by Chuck D of Public Enemy Some Good News: Elevate Chicago Dance 2022 Follow us on Twitter: @CityCastChicago Sign up for our newsletter: chicago.citycast.fm Call or Text Us: (773) 780-0246 This episode sponsored by the Jane Addams Hull-House Museum. Check out their series of spooky events this month.

This Saturday, thousands of people will descend on Navy Pier for Slow and Low: Chicago Lowrider Festival. The exhibition will feature hundreds of custom cars, bikes, and other vehicles along with Mexican art and dance displays. Photographer and festival curator Edward “Magic” Calderon tells host Jacoby Cochran how lowrider culture is about more than the cars. A little bit of news: Early voting has officially started. Plus if you haven’t yet registered to vote, today is the deadline to mail in your registration forms. Here are other voting dates you should know. Follow us on Twitter: @CityCastChicago Sign up for our newsletter: chicago.citycast.fm Call or Text Us: (773) 780-0246 This episode sponsored by the Jane Addams Hull-House Museum. Check out their series of spooky events this month, including nighttime ghost tours.

Fridays are for getting caught up on the week’s news and prepping for the weekend. Host Jacoby Cochran talks to Mariah Woelfel, WBEZ’s City Hall reporter and Brandis Friedman, WTTW anchor extraordinaire, about the mayor’s new budget, WTTW’s Permanent Punishment series, tiny homes, and another cop-involved shooting. Plus, the Chicago Sun-Times loses its paywall, and volunteers archive key burial records of Black Chicagoans. And, Jacoby's good news is "Clyde's" at the Goodman Theatre. Follow us on Twitter: @CityCastChicago Sign up for our newsletter: chicago.citycast.fm Call or Text Us: (773) 780-0246

Host Jacoby Cochran always says when he pictures Chicago, the first neighborhood that pops in his head is Auburn Gresham. Growing up, visiting granny, and attending elementary school in the neighborhood cemented his love early. He joins Simone Alicea at the Auburn Park Lagoon for a stroll down memory lane. They also discuss some of his favorite things to do, see, and eat in Auburn Gresham. Jacoby's List: Auburn Park Lagoon Foster Park Dan Ryan Woods Great Wall of Chicago MLK Entertainment Center Exclusive Golden Tropical World Harold’s Jerk Villa Eat & Run The Hoagie Place Maxwell’s Cookie’s Cocktail Lounge Some good news: Citywide Karaoke Competition Follow us on Twitter: @CityCastChicago Sign up for our newsletter: chicago.citycast.fm Call or Text Us: (773) 780-0246

Chicago Reader theater and dance editor Kerry Reid tells host Jacoby Cochran about plays she’s most excited about for fall. Kerry's Picks: The Twenty-Sided Tavern at Broadway Playhouse Trouble in Mind at TimeLine Theatre The Locusts from the Gift Theatre at Theater Wit Jacoby's Picks: 1919 at Steppenwolf Enough to Let the Light In from Teatro Vista at Steppenwolf The Wizards at APO Cultural Center Blue Heaven at Black Ensemble Theater Follow us on Twitter: @CityCastChicago Sign up for our newsletter: chicago.citycast.fm Call or Text Us: (773) 780-0246

In 2022, Chicago celebrated the centennial birthday of the city’s first Black mayor, Harold Washington. Washington died in 1987 at the start of his second term. His historic election was propelled by a coalition of Black, brown, and progressive voters who saw Washington as the start of a new reform government. In April, host Jacoby Cochran talked about Washington’s life and legacy with Laura Washington, a columnist for the Chicago Sun-Times, ABC-7, and one-time press secretary for Harold Washington (no relation). With the new documentary about “Punch 9 for Harold Washington” slated to open at AMC theaters Friday, we revisit our conversation with Laura. This conversation was originally published on April 18, 2022. A little bit of news: Check here for road closures around Grant Park leading up to this weekend’s marathon. RSVP for the Indigenous Peoples Day Fest! Follow us on Twitter: @CityCastChicago Sign up for our newsletter: chicago.citycast.fm Call or Text Us: (773) 780-0246

Anyone who’s had a headache probably doesn’t think too hard before popping a Tylenol or other pain pill. But in late September 1982, the country was gripped with panic as taking a Tylenol could suddenly be deadly. That’s after six people in the northwest suburbs and one person in the city died after taking tainted pills. It led to a nationwide recall, waves of false tips, and copycat killers. “Unsealed: The Tylenol Murders,” a new podcast and print series from the Chicago Tribune and At Will Media, explores the decades-long saga and uncovers new details. Chicago Tribune investigative reporters Christy Gutowski and Stacy St. Clair reported the series and co-host the podcast. Stacy tells host Jacoby Cochran how a tip to her and her colleagues could bring some closure to this case. Follow us on Twitter: @CityCastChicago Sign up for our newsletter: chicago.citycast.fm Call or Text Us: (773) 780-0246 This episode sponsored by the Jane Addams Hull-House Museum. Check out their series of spooky events this month, including nighttime ghost tours.

Host Jacoby Cochran, lead producer Carrie Shepherd, and producer Simone Alicea break down the top stories of the week, highlight some news that needs more attention, and share their good news. Stories include the a new Chinatown high school moving forward despite pushback from the community, a Depaul student scamming residents at a Rogers Park encampment, carless streets, and a mayoral endorsement. Plus, some good news! Follow us on Twitter: @CityCastChicago Sign up for our newsletter: chicago.citycast.fm Call or Text Us: (773) 780-0246

Since Roe v. Wade was overturned this summer, Latinas have faced an influx of Spanish-language misinformation and disinformation about abortion. Confusion over state abortion laws, including in Illinois, has enabled this misinformation to spread, especially on social media. Host Jacoby Cochran speaks to Dr. Melissa Simon, OB-GYN at Northwestern Medicine and director of the Center for Health Equity Transformation, about why Latinas are being targeted and what we can do to combat this misinformation. Come to the City Cast Chicago Happy Hour Thursday, Sept. 29, at 6 p.m. at Midwest Coast Brewing. Drinks on us! Follow us on Twitter: @CityCastChicago Sign up for our newsletter: chicago.citycast.fm Call or Text Us: (773) 780-0246

StreetWise is celebrating its 30th anniversary, which is no small feat when you factor in the pandemic and inflation. The weekly magazine’s vendors are fixtures in our communities, and some of them have been doing it since the beginning. We hear from a few of them, and lead producer Carrie Shepherd talks with StreetWise Executive Director Julie Youngquist about the origins of the magazine and how it works to help people in need. StreetWise’s 30th anniversary celebration is at 5:30 p.m. Friday at Galleria Marchetti. This episode was originally published July 6, 2022. Join us Thursday from 6–7:30 p.m. at Midwest Coast Brewing for a City Cast Chicago happy hour! Drinks on us! Follow us on Twitter: @CityCastChicago Sign up for our newsletter: chicago.citycast.fm Call or Text Us: (773) 780-0246

From the park, to neighborhood theaters, to giant arenas, you can catch professional wrestling matches in Chicago just about every weekend. Local independent wrestling star Colt Cabana and former referee and wrestling historian Phil Wills tell us about Chicago’s role in wrestling history, what they love about it, and what it takes to become a pro wrestler. Some good news: Andersonville Arts Weekend Join us Thursday from 6–7:30 p.m. at Midwest Coast Brewing for a City Cast Chicago happy hour! Meet the team and fellow City Cast listeners while enjoying free drinks!

Between 2016 and 2021, Chicago tested 24,000 homes for lead levels in the water. According to a recent Guardian report, 1 in 20 homes exceeded federal limits. However, the city has never done a full analysis of the data and fewer than 200 of Chicago’s 400,000 lead pipes have been removed under Mayor Lori Lightfoot. So we have to ask: Are officials taking this problem seriously? Host Jacoby Cochran talks with freelance journalist Taylor Moore, who co-reported the story. Profiting from poison: how the US lead industry knowingly created a water crisis Revealed: the ‘shocking’ levels of toxic lead in Chicago tap water This Thursday, Sept 29th we are hosting a happy hour from 6-7:30 p.m. at Midwest Coast Brewing. You can meet the team, grab some swag, and have drinks on us! Follow us on Twitter: @CityCastChicago Sign up for our newsletter: chicago.citycast.fm Call or Text Us: (773) 780-0246

Municipal elections are around the corner and over a dozen alders are not seeking reelection, have already left office, or are running for Mayor. City Council will look very different soon and The Triibe explores what that means for City Council’s Black Caucus and the future of progressive politics at City Hall. Speaking of progressive, Mayor Lori Lightfoot’s reelection campaign hit BET this week, and the mayor argued her first term has largely been a progressive success. We asked Triibe’s cofounders Tiffany Walden and Morgan Elise Johnson about the Mayor’s record and if they believe her claims hold up. Plus, you don’t want to miss this week’s good news, Morgan and Tiffany share their Best Day of Summer. (Spoiler: it involves Beyonce and Diana Ross!) Other Stories Discussed: What’s going on with the Invest South/West Program What’s Next for Austin’s Iconic Pink House Good News: Chicago Gourmet Festival Congrats to the winner of our Summer Bucket List Challenge, Annie A., who completed all 21 items! To celebrate, we'll be hosting a happy hour from 6-7:30 p.m. Thursday, Sep. 29, at Midwest Coast Brewery. You can meet the team, grab some swag, and have a beer on us! Follow us on Twitter: @CityCastChicago Sign up for our newsletter: chicago.citycast.fm Call or Text Us: (773) 780-0246

Listener Andie Linker grew up in Lincoln Park and loves the expansive green spaces throughout the area. Her parents have been residents for decades and are known for throwing one of the best neighborhood block parties. Andie reached out to City Cast Chicago because she says while she loves her community, she believes it’s important to acknowledge and repair the long history of gentrification, displacement, and erasure. Host Jacoby Cochran visits Oz Park in Lincoln Park with Andie to learn more about her personal history, love for the neighborhood, and her favorite things to see, do, and eat in Lincoln Park and Old Town. Spots Andie recommends: Annette’s Italian Ice Pasta Palazzo Cedar Palace Batter & Berries Pequod’s Lincoln Park Conservatory Lincoln Park Zoo The Second Child Second City Zanies Comedy Club A little bit of news: Catch up on what City Council did on Wednesday. Follow us on Twitter: @CityCastChicago Sign up for our newsletter: chicago.citycast.fm Call or Text Us: (773) 780-0246

With organized groups around Chicagoland pushing to remove books like “Gender Queer” and others from schools, this year’s Banned Books Week feels more pressing than ever. Now in its 40th year, Banned Books Week is a time to celebrate the freedom to read and fight against censorship. Kelly Jensen is an editor at Book Riot, and she tracks book bans. She tells host Jacoby Cochran about efforts to ban books here and explains what we can do about it. PEN America’s report on the rise of book challenges in schools Guide to fighting censorship Follow us on Twitter: @CityCastChicago Sign up for our newsletter: chicago.citycast.fm Call or Text Us: (773) 780-0246

When the conversation about Chicago classic movies begins, “Ferris Bueller’s Day Off” will most likely be on the list. Writer Leigh Giangreco grew up in Buffalo loving the film, and now living in Chicago, Giangreco wondered if you could recreate Ferris, Cameron, and Sloane’s day off and get it all done before the parents get home. Leigh documented her day for the Washington Post, and tells host Jacoby Cochran the details of how it all went down. Some good news: Latin Restaurant week Follow us on Twitter: @CityCastChicago Sign up for our newsletter: chicago.citycast.fm Call or Text Us: (773) 780-0246

Anyone who grew up around Chicago, or outside Chicago and watched WGN or listened to WGCI, knows we have some classic and catchy commercials and jingles for local businesses. Think about it: the sultry sound of Adriana Furs, the enthusiasm of Moo and Oink, and the memorable phone numbers from our favorite carpet sellers. Even if you haven’t seen or heard them in years, you know them. Writer Chasity Cooper compiled some of her favorites recently for The Triibe and she joins host Jacoby Cochran to talk about those jingles and some stories behind them. Some Good News: Reeling: The 40th Chicago LGBTQ+ International Film Festival Follow us on Twitter: @CityCastChicago Sign up for our newsletter: chicago.citycast.fm Call or Text Us: (773) 780-0246

Between a political ad featuring a video of an attack in Chicago and misleading social media posts circulating about Illinois’ SAFE-T act, there have been a lot of misinformation and misrepresentations to fight this week. Luckily, we have Jill Hopkins and Pat Whalen to help host Jacoby Cochran break it down. The trio also talk about problems at CTA, a longtime exhibit leaving the Museum of Science and Industry, and some gooooood newwwws. Good News: Pat Whalen's "Best Evening Ever" The Rink is back! Michael "Chef Mike" Airhart feeds migrants Follow us on Twitter: @CityCastChicago Sign up for our newsletter: chicago.citycast.fm Call or Text Us: (773) 780-0246

For author, professor, and South Side connoisseur Arionne Nettles, Pullman and Roseland are her home base. Host Jacoby Cochran meets Arionne at the Pullman National Monument to reminisce on childhood memories, talk neighborhood history, and she shares some of her favorite things to do, see, and eat on the Far South Side. Spots Arionne recommends: Palmer Park Pullman National Monument A. Philip Randolph Pullman Porter Museum Lexington Betty Smokehouse Old Fashioned Donuts Original A.P. Deli Follow us on Twitter: @CityCastChicago Sign up for our newsletter: chicago.citycast.fm Call or Text Us: (773) 780-0246

Every fall, monarch butterflies migrate thousands of miles south to Mexico, flying from and passing through Chicago. It’s a long journey, but at a sanctuary garden in Pilsen the butterflies can feed and re-fuel. Claudia Galeno-Sanchez started her garden of native plants to help pollinators, but it also reminds her of her own journey from Mexico 20 years ago. Galeno-Sanchez says the garden brings the community together and helps the ecosystem. Host Jacoby Cochran takes a tour. Follow us on Twitter: @CityCastChicago Sign up for our newsletter: chicago.citycast.fm Call or Text Us: (773) 780-0246

The sinkhole that swallows up Millennium Park in “Mount Chicago” only takes up a fraction of the new novel. Among other characters, the story follows Solomon Gladman, a writer and comedian who lost his family in the disaster, and a fictional mayor attempting to create a Daley-like legacy in the sinkhole’s wake. Producer Simone Alicea talks with author Adam Levin about grief, loss, and the role of Chicago in the novel. A little bit of news: Learn more about running for a seat on newly-created police District Councils. Follow us on Twitter: @CityCastChicago Sign up for our newsletter: chicago.citycast.fm Call or Text Us: (773) 780-0246

On the evening of Aug. 31, Texas Gov. Greg Abbott tweeted that a bus of migrants had arrived in Chicago. The asylum-seekers, largely from Venezuela, had been sent to the city with little information, and the organizations and city officials receiving them at Union Station didn’t have many more answers. Since then, two more buses of migrants have arrived. Chicago Tribune’s Laura Rodriguez Presa has been talking with the new arrivals and shares some of their stories. You can find places to donate or sign up to volunteer to help arriving asylum-seekers through the city. Some news: Get your state income and property tax rebates Chicago Fire Facility Moving to Site of Former ABLA Homes After School Matters applications open The Destinos international Latino Theater Festival begins this week Follow us on Twitter: @CityCastChicago Sign up for our newsletter: chicago.citycast.fm Call or Text Us: (773) 780-0246

Host Jacoby Cochran, Crain’s reporter Corli Jay, and Block Club Southeast Side reporter Maxwell Evans rewind some stories from the week, including the Bears’ ongoing threat to move to suburban Arlington Heights, new small businesses in Woodlawn, and some good news, including the welcoming community of South Shore and the return of a street fest in Gresham. Other stories discussed: Studying climate change in Chicago 26th Street Mexican Independence Day Parade Follow us on Twitter: @CityCastChicago Sign up for our newsletter: chicago.citycast.fm Call or Text Us: (773) 780-0246

Host Jacoby Cochran meets fellow podcaster Zac Emry at Fort Knox Studios in Portage Park to talk about things to eat, see, and do on the Northwest Side. Emery, who hosts the podcast Album Rebrews, talks about moving to the area to be close to one of the city’s largest music rehearsal spaces and discovering spots in the city and nearby suburbs that align with his eclectic interests. Spots Zac recommends: Thrifting books and collectibles at Village Crossing American Science and Surplus (now in Park Ridge) Tone Deaf Records LaBagh Woods Leaning Tower of Niles Mom’s Old Recipe Mexican restaurant Weston’s Coffee and Tap Co. Elly’s on Milwaukee Want to know where to see birds in Uptown? Find a Chicago-mix-scented candle in Beverly? Or get a coffee (or two or three) in North Lawndale? Peep our neighborhood guide playlist. Some good news: The three-day Lincoln Park Gyrofest starts Friday. Follow us on Twitter: @CityCastChicago Sign up for our newsletter: chicago.citycast.fm Call or Text Us: (773) 780-0246

Two years ago, Mayor Lori Lightfoot removed the Christopher Columbus statues in Grant Park and Arrigo Park in Little Italy after protests and police violence as activists called for the monuments to be removed. The mayor then appointed a committee to review the city’s public monuments and determine which ones are problematic and what should be done with them. The Chicago Monuments Project narrowed the list to 41 works and just released their recommendations for those monuments. Host Jacoby Cochran talks to committee co-chair Bonnie McDonald about how the group came to their recommendations. A little bit of news: Here’s where to find the new bivalent COVID-19 booster. More residents are now eligible to get lead water lines removed. Here’s where to apply and get a free water test kit. Follow us on Twitter: @CityCastChicago Sign up for our newsletter: chicago.citycast.fm Call or Text Us: (773) 780-0246

Brothers Scott and Joe Lewis grew up talking about their love—and frustration—with the Chicago Bears. They used to listen to the old guys at their barbershop in Englewood do the same thing. The Lewis brothers turned that into the “79th and Halas” podcast, which has been on for eight seasons. Ahead of the Bears’ season opener Sunday, host Jacoby Cochran talks with Scott Lewis about the podcast and the upcoming season. A little bit of news: While beaches are closed for the season, some indoor pools are reopening this week. Check the Park District for details. Follow us on Twitter: @CityCastChicago Sign up for our newsletter: chicago.citycast.fm Call or Text Us: (773) 780-0246

With illegal drag races, donuts in the street, backed up traffic, fireworks and run-ins with police, street takeovers continue to pop up across Chicago. Host Jacoby Cochran is joined by Chicago Sun-Times’ reporter Manny Ramos and Chicago Tribune reporter Jake Sheridan to talk what, if anything, the city can do to discourage the meet-ups. Our Friday trio also discuss more libraries carrying Narcan (Naloxone), migrants arriving in Chicago from Texas, and the anniversary of Emmett Till’s death. Plus, stick around for our good news we’ve got roller skates and pickleball! Some Good News: The Rink re-opening Friday, Sept. 2 Follow us on Twitter: @CityCastChicago Sign up for our newsletter: chicago.citycast.fm Call or Text Us: (773) 780-0246

Host Jacoby Cochran and freelance journalist Natalie Frazier stop by Comercio Popular in Lawndale to talk about Natalie’s family’s history on the West Side. From growing up in Austin, visiting granny in Garfield Park, and putting down roots in North Lawndale, Natalie shares with us the pride she feels in her community and her desire to see it thrive. She also shares her favorite things to do, see, and eat in her neighborhoods. Spots Natalie Recommends: Azucar Ice Cream & Coffee Principle Barbers Green Tomato Cafe Beelove Cafe Scatchell’s Beef Monday Coffee @ Garfield Park Conservatory Muse Coffee Studio Firehouse Community Arts Center Check out our other neighborhood guides for Rogers Park, Uptown, and Edgewater and for Beverly, Morgan Park, and Mount Greenwood. Want to take us around YOUR neighborhood? Or have recs on where to go? Email us at [email protected]. Follow us on Twitter: @CityCastChicago Sign up for our newsletter: chicago.citycast.fm Call or Text Us: (773) 780-0246

Lisa Beasley has toured with Second City, performed on Comedy Central, and stolen scenes on the hit show “South Side.” Her latest show at the Laugh Factory, “Lisa Beasley’s Unpolitical Woman Comedy Show,” may be her funniest creation yet. The show features a cast of Lisa’s friends and impressive characters like “women’s ministry pastor” Kevin Jackson, a reincarnated Margaret Thatcher, and Mayor Lory Litefoot. Host Jacoby Cochran talks to the writer and filmmaker about the show and the many layers of her comedy. For free tickets to Lisa Beasley’s Unpolitical Woman Comedy, USE PROMO CODE: citycast (there are a limited number of tickets so grab them fast!) Follow us on Twitter: @CityCastChicago Sign up for our newsletter: chicago.citycast.fm Call or Text Us: (773) 780-0246

Just in the past couple weeks, one person was found dead and at least three others have been seriously injured at the “Playpen” in Lake Michigan — a popular boating spot east of Oak Street beach. As boaters, kayakers, swimmers, and casual Chicagoans make their way out to the water for the last few weeks of summer, host Jacoby Cochran talks to Mike McElroy, vice president of the Chicago Harbor Safety Committee, about the safety rules in the water, and why August is traditionally difficult for boaters. Some good news: Nominations are open for Chicago magazine’s Chicagoans of the year. Follow us on Twitter: @CityCastChicago Sign up for our newsletter: chicago.citycast.fm Call or Text Us: (773) 780-0246

Tonight is the season finale for "American Ninja Warrior" — the show with all the running, jumping, and swinging through crazy obstacles. But you can learn to be a ninja year round from a coach who’s been on the show. Mike “The Stallion” Silenzi has been on nine times (including this season), and he runs Ultimate Ninjas in northwest suburban Libertyville. It’s a gym dedicated to training for obstacles similar to what you see on the show. Producer Simone Alicea visited Mike at the gym to see what it takes to train like a ninja warrior. A little bit of news: On Tuesday, the city is hosting a public meeting about pedestrian and traffic safety on Garfield Boulevard in Washington Park. Some good news: We are extending the deadline of our Summertime Chi Bucket List challenge. You now have until Sept. 22 to do as many things as possible. Do the most, and you could win some swag! Follow us on Twitter: @CityCastChicago Sign up for our newsletter: chicago.citycast.fm Call or Text Us: (773) 780-0246

It is the first week of school for Chicago Public School students, but unfortunately for thousands of students and parents who rely on the district's school buses service, many are still without routes. WBEZ education reporter Sarah Karp breaks down that story, and Injustice Watch editor Jonah Newman discusses a report that recommends closing the Cook County Juvenile Temporary Detention Center, and how the chief judge sat on the report for months. Plus, moments of joy, including celebrating Loyola’s Sister Jean's 103rd birthday, and the Purple Block Party! Follow us on Twitter: @CityCastChicago Sign up for our newsletter: chicago.citycast.fm Call or Text Us: (773) 780-0246

Host Jacoby Cochran and librarian Ashley Rayner head to Ridge Park in Beverly to talk about Ashley’s history growing up in the neighborhood to now raising her own children blocks away from her childhood home. She also shares her favorite things to do, see, and eat in her neighborhood. They also talk spots in Morgan Park and Mount Greenwood. Spots Ashley Recommends: Afro Joe's Ain't She Sweet Cafe Beverly Dry Goods Beverly Phono Mart Big and Little Shoes Blue Island Beer Company Flippin Flavors Kimmy Kakes Milano's Chi Tung Major Taylor Trail Nicky's The Original Rainbow Cone Ohana Rock Island Public House Ridge Park Turkey Check out all great suggestions from listeners and readers on Twitter. Follow us on Twitter: @CityCastChicago Sign up for our newsletter: chicago.citycast.fm Call or Text Us: (773) 780-0246

What happens to a community when industry leaves? That’s the central question driving Steven Walsh’s documentary “Southeast: A City Within a City.” Growing up in the East Side neighborhood, Walsh saw what unemployment and disinvestment did to the area, and he wanted to find out how it got there. The filmmaker talks with host Jacoby Cochran about why he loves his neighborhood and how his grandfather’s story is the story of many on the Southeast Side. The documentary is being screened for free Thursday at Big Marsh Park after sunset. RSVP Here. Check our Steven Walsh's Guide to the Southeast Side in the City Cast Chicago newsletter. This conversation was originally published Sept. 30, 2021. Follow us on Twitter: @CityCastChicago Sign up for our newsletter: chicago.citycast.fm Call or Text Us: (773) 780-0246

In a post-Roe world, the role of abortion doulas has become more critical than ever. Abortion doulas support people before, during, and after an abortion. City Cast Chicago host Jacoby Cochran talks to producer Meg Dalton about her experience as a doula in New York and Connecticut, and Meg plays tape of Ama Warnock, an abortion doula in Chicago, about how doulas support people looking to end their pregnancies. Places that offer abortion doula services and training: Radical Doula Queer Doula Network Chicago Women's Health Center Embodied Reproductive Care Follow us on Twitter: @CityCastChicago Sign up for our newsletter: chicago.citycast.fm Call or Text Us: (773) 780-0246

It’s the first day of school for Chicago Public Schools. And while the past couple years have been marked by battles between CPS and the Chicago Teachers Union over pandemic safety protocols, this school year is starting less contentiously with scaled-back COVID-19 measures. Stacy Davis Gates was elected president of the CTU this spring. She sits down with host Jacoby Cochran to talk about what teachers and students can expect this school year and her vision for one of the city’s most influential institutions. Follow us on Twitter: @CityCastChicago Sign up for our newsletter: chicago.citycast.fm Call or Text Us: (773) 780-0246

Douglass Park neighbors say the city is unfairly prioritizing festivals and events over residents who use the park. The park won’t be fully repaired until after Riot Fest this fall, so neighbors are pushing for more of a voice in event permitting. Host Jacoby Cochran talks about that story with the Center for Public Integrity’s María Inés Zamudio and City Bureau’s Alejandra Cancino. Plus, they talk about development in Bronzeville, air pollution on the South and West sides, a community garden in Pilsen, and Cook County’s guaranteed income program. Follow us on Twitter: @CityCastChicago Sign up for our newsletter: chicago.citycast.fm Call or Text Us: (773) 780-0246

Host Jacoby Cochran and producer Simone Alicea head to the Montrose Point Bird Sanctuary in Uptown to talk about some of Simone’s favorite things to do, see, and eat in her neighborhood. They also talk spots in Edgewater and Rogers Park. Spots We Talked About: Montrose Bird Sanctuary Graceland Cemetery Green Mill Cocktail Lounge Immm Rice and Beyond Lickity Split Check out all great suggestions from listeners and readers on our Twitter feed Follow us on Twitter: @CityCastChicago Sign up for our newsletter: chicago.citycast.fm Call or Text Us: (773) 780-0246

We expect summertime to be hot in Chicago, but extremely hot days are coming earlier and more often. During a May heat wave, three residents at a senior apartment complex in Rogers Park died from what’s suspected to be heat-related causes. The tragedy prompted Ald. Maria Hadden to push a law to keep residents safe in extreme heat. The law passed in June. The 49th Ward alderwoman tells lead producer Carrie Shepherd how the new law came to be and what the protections entail. A little bit of news: The future of the Discount Mall in Little Village remains uncertain, with the contract between the mall and property owners set to expire at the end of this month. Go back and listen to our episode about the mall’s importance to the community. Follow us on Twitter: @CityCastChicago Sign up for our newsletter: chicago.citycast.fm Call or Text Us: (773) 780-0246

Chicago Public Schools start the new school year on Monday, Aug. 22. Earlier this month, the district announced its COVID protocols for the upcoming school year. They include recommended masking, free weekly testing, some quarantining guidelines, and a test-to-stay program for unvaccinated students. Chicago Department of Public Health Commissioner Dr. Allison Arwady tells us why students and parents should be confident returning to the classroom. Follow us on Twitter: @CityCastChicago Sign up for our newsletter: chicago.citycast.fm Call or Text Us: (773) 780-0246

Monkeypox is a public health emergency in Illinois. There are more than 600 cases reported in Chicago. The person leading the response to monkeypox and all public health issues is Dr. Allison Arwady. Host Jacoby Cochran talks to the public health commissioner about what we need to know to protect ourselves against the virus, and why messaging is so important to prevent the spread. More on Monkeypox (MPV) More resources from the city about monkeypox Resources from the state Some Good News: Jacoby hosts The Moth on Tuesday, Aug. 16 Jacoby is a guest on Axios Chicago's Office Hours on Friday, Aug. 19 Follow us on Twitter: @CityCastChicago Sign up for our newsletter: chicago.citycast.fm Call or Text Us: (773) 780-0246