City Cast Chicago

Mexico and Poland faced off Tuesday as part of the World Cup. Both countries have large populations in the Chicago area, prompting speculation on social media that it could be the “Battle of Archer Ave.” So how did it play out? City Cast headed to a bar in Pilsen and one in Niles to watch the game with fans. Some News: In honor of Indigenous Peoples Heritage Month, The Chicago Public Library put together reading lists for adults, teens, and kids. Remember to nominate City Cast Chicago as Best Podcast and Hey Chicago as Best Newsletter in the Reader's 2022 Best of Chicago under the City Life category! Follow us on Twitter: @CityCastChicago Sign up for our newsletter: chicago.citycast.fm Call or Text Us: (773) 780-0246

In addition to mayor and alders, Chicago voters in February’s municipal election will elect civilian police district councils. Those are representatives of the public tasked with providing some sort of oversight of police. Each district elects 3 members, which means a total of 66 councilors the city. Chicago Reader editor Jim Daley breaks down what the councils will do. Plus, Isaac Troncoso from the Chicago Community Commission for Public Safety and Accountability, explains how the commission will work with the councils. Follow us on Twitter: @CityCastChicago Sign up for our newsletter: chicago.citycast.fm Call or Text Us: (773) 780-0246

The City Cast Chicago team is ringing in the holiday week with another round of Re: VIEWS where we break down films that really star Chicago. Today, re-watching “Planes Trains and Automobiles,” by the late, great Chicago filmmaker John Hughes. Chicago is always a consistent presence in Hughes’ films. What’s your favorite movie starring or featuring Chicago? Send us your pick and we might Re: VIEW it next. Email us: [email protected] More about city's vacant lot program and our episode about it. Follow us on Twitter: @CityCastChicago Sign up for our newsletter: chicago.citycast.fm Call or Text Us: (773) 780-0246

Host Jacoby Cochran is back behind the mic for the latest edition of our weekly news rewind. Today, we’ve got some great friends of the show in the building: WTTW’s politics reporter Amanda Vinicky, and Axios Chicago’s Justin Kaufmann. They discuss everything from property taxes and weed dispensaries, to GOP leadership changes and constitutional amendments. Plus, the trio offers some advice for people new to Chicago. Follow us on Twitter: @CityCastChicago Sign up for our newsletter: chicago.citycast.fm Call or Text Us: (773) 780-0246

Humboldt Park is the center of Chicago’s Puerto Rican community. But that pride extends to other neighborhoods, like Hermosa, a little northwest of Humboldt. City Cast Chicago lead producer Carrie Shepherd takes a tour of both neighborhoods with Joshua Smyser-DeLeon, host Paseo Podcast, which highlights stories by, from and about the Puerto Rican community. Good News: Hike Your Way Through Fall: Our Top Picks Hermosa: -Segundo Ruiz Belvis Cultural Center -Rica Arepa -Salty Sweet Chicago -Hermosa Park -Walt Disney’s Home -The Bungalow Belt Humboldt Park: -Borinquen -Esmeralda's Tiki Bar -Nellie's -Paseo Boricua Mural Tour -National Museum of Puerto Rican Arts and Culture Follow us on Twitter: @CityCastChicago Sign up for our newsletter: chicago.citycast.fm Call or Text Us: (773) 780-0246

Animal shelters have struggled to find enough homes for all the dogs and cats that people got during the pandemic but then had to give up. But what about other pets, like birds, lizards, and snakes? That’s where Jessica Katz comes in. She runs the Chicagoland Exotic Animal Rescue out of her apartment in Andersonville. Producer Simone Alicea got to meet some of the animals Katz is helping find homes for. Follow us on Twitter: @CityCastChicago Sign up for our newsletter: chicago.citycast.fm Call or Text Us: (773) 780-0246

City Cast Chicago is bringing you a preview of another podcast, "Some of My Best Friends Are," from Pushkin Industries. Harvard professor Khalil Gibran Muhammad and journalist Ben Austen are friends, one Black and one white, who grew up together on the South Side of Chicago. On the podcast, Khalil and Ben, along with their guests, have critical conversations that are at once personal, political, and playful, about the absurdities and intricacies of race in America. In this preview, Khalil and Ben revisit the origins of their friendship during a live conversation at the 2022 Chicago Humanities Festival. Ben shares memories of his first job delivering bagels around Chicago, and Khalil speaks to when he first realized he had a Chicago accent. Above all, they connect with a hometown audience and discuss the hard work of studying and admiring a city that can be tough to love at times.

To get their new house in Rogers Park, Joe Bergantino and Ricky Gonzalez wrote the owner a letter promising to retain the house’s funky spirit. It’s known as the “Candyland House” because of its pink, yellow, teal, and white striped exterior and interior. Bergantino and Gonzalez have been renovating the house and documenting it on their Homos with Hammers Instagram. City Cast Chicago’s Carrie Shepherd took a tour this summer with the couple, and nearly a year after they bought it, Bergantino and Gonzalez give us an update on how things are going. Parts of this episode were originally published Aug. 3, 2022. Nominate City Cast Chicago for Best Podcast and Hey Chicago for Best Newsletter in the Reader’s Best of Chicago in the City Life category. Follow us on Twitter: @CityCastChicago Sign up for our newsletter: chicago.citycast.fm Call or Text Us: (773) 780-0246

The story of public housing in Chicago is often a one-sided narrative about deteriorating buildings, crime-ridden corridors, drug trafficking and public aid. But for the last 15 years, former Chicago Housing Authority residents and advocates have sought to shed light on the full stories of these once-vibrant communities by creating the National Public Housing Museum. Leaders recently broke ground, and the museum is slated to open next year at one of the former Jane Addams homes in Little Italy. We talk with Crystal Palmer, a former CHA resident and leader on the museum’s board, and Lisa Lee, the museum’s executive director, about what to expect. Nominate City Cast Chicago for Best Podcast and Hey Chicago for Best Newsletter in the Reader’s Best of Chicago 2022! Follow us on Twitter: @CityCastChicago Sign up for our newsletter: chicago.citycast.fm Call or Text Us: (773) 780-0246

After months of speculation, U.S. Congressman Jesus "Chuy" Garcia is officially running for mayor of Chicago. Garcia notably announced his campaign on the 40th anniversary of Harold Washington, the city’s first Black mayor, launching his historic campaign for Chicago’s highest office. Joining host Jacoby Cochran are Block Club Chicago's Jamie Nesbitt Golden and WCIU TV host Brandon Pope. The trio also break down CPS’ ongoing food shortage, the agenda for CTA president Dorval Carter’s testimony before alders, and a play helping revitalize Pilsen’s APO Cultural Center. Plus, everyone’s going to see the newest entry into the Marvel Cinematic Universe, "Black Panther: Wakanda Forever!" Are you going? And if so, are you dressing up like Jamie and Brandon? If you’ve got photos tag @CityCastChicago ! Nominations are open for the Reader's 2022 Best of Chicago. Nominate City Cast Chicago as Best Podcast and Hey Chicago as Best Newsletter under the "City Life" category! Follow us on Twitter: @CityCastChicago Sign up for our newsletter: chicago.citycast.fm Call or Text Us: (773) 780-0246

Election season can mean commercials and speeches full of fearmongering around crime, stereotypes about the South and West sides, and calling Chicago a hellhole. But it doesn’t just happen when there's an election. Freelance journalist Mark Braboy recently wrote for The Triibe about the growth of online hip-hop and culture blogs, and how Chicago misinformation has become some of their bread and butter. Follow us on Twitter: @CityCastChicago Sign up for our newsletter: chicago.citycast.fm Call or Text Us: (773) 780-0246

Voters in Illinois headed to the polls Tuesday to cast their ballots for local, state, and federal offices in midterm elections. The City Cast Chicago team recaps some key races including those for governor, Congress, and the state Supreme Court. Follow us on Twitter: @CityCastChicago Sign up for our newsletter: chicago.citycast.fm Call or Text Us: (773) 780-0246

As we await election results tonight, our eyes are likely to get pulled to big congressional, legislative, and gubernatorial races. But you’ll also want to keep an eye on the Illinois Supreme Court, where Democrats’ decades-long majority is at stake, and the attorney general’s race. From public safety to access to abortion, these offices have a lot of influence. WBEZ criminal justice reporter Shannon Heffernan breaks down the AG’s race, while Injustice Watch editor Jonah Newman explains how two suburban Supreme Court races could affect the state. Polls close tonight at 7 p.m. Check for your polling place. Follow us on Twitter: @CityCastChicago Sign up for our newsletter: chicago.citycast.fm Call or Text Us: (773) 780-0246

Few people probably remember that in 2015, the Supreme Court’s decisions on same sex marriage and the Affordable Care Act, as well as the racist shooting rampage that killed nine African Americans at a Charleston church all happened within 10 days. Cody Keenan remembers. He was former President Barack Obama’s chief speechwriter, which meant he had to craft the right words for Obama to deliver. In his new book, “Grace: President Obama and Ten Days in the Battle for America,” Keenan details his struggle to write speeches about those events and outlines how he collaborated with the country’s first Black president. Remember, Election Day is tomorrow. Find your polling place or nearest drop box. Follow us on Twitter: @CityCastChicago Sign up for our newsletter: chicago.citycast.fm Call or Text Us: (773) 780-0246

It’s the last weekend before midterm elections, so of course we’ve got big names making the rounds. President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris are in Illinois, following visits this week from former president and first lady Barack and Michelle Obama. But it’s not just elections in the news: CTA president Dorval Carter said this week he will appear before the City Council after skipping a hearing in September. The City Cast Chicago podcast team talks about accountability at the transit agency, the latest on grocery mergers, and big changes for the Bears. Plus, host Jacoby Cochran, lead producer Carrie Shepherd, and producer Simone Alicea offer some advice for people new to Chicago. Follow us on Twitter: @CityCastChicago Sign up for our newsletter: chicago.citycast.fm Call or Text Us: (773) 780-0246

During a budget hearing last month, Department of Planning and Development Commissioner Maurice D. Cox said the city has 4,000 vacant lots that are clean and ready for sale. He also promised a more streamlined process in purchasing those lots. City Cast Chicago listener Makema Adkins has one of these city-owned lots behind her condo on the Near West Side, where she’s lived for over a decade. In 2020, she started the process of buying the lot to build a bigger home for her growing family, but it was going frustratingly slow. We revisit our August conversation with Makema about why she thinks the city should make it easier for residents like her to build on these lots. We also get an update on where she is with her new home. Parts of this episode were originally published Aug. 1, 2022. Makema texted us with her question, and you can too! Reach out or leave a voicemail at (773) 780-0246. Some news: Today is the last day to request a mail-in ballot. And applications are now open to replace George Cardenas as 12th Ward alderperson. Follow us on Twitter: @CityCastChicago Sign up for our newsletter: chicago.citycast.fm Call or Text Us: (773) 780-0246

Last year around this time we asked, “Are these Bulls for real?” That’s because the team had one of its best starts in years, exciting new players, and a newfound intensity on the court. Heading into this season, following a first round exit in the playoffs and a quiet off season, many are wondering what the team’s ceiling is this year. Host Jacoby Cochran sits down with ESPN NBA reporter Jamal Collier and asks about his early predictions for the Chicago Bulls. Some news: Englewood Nature Trail community meeting Thursday. Follow us on Twitter: @CityCastChicago Sign up for our newsletter: chicago.citycast.fm Call or Text Us: (773) 780-0246

In addition to statewide and congressional races, candidates for Cook County offices are on the ballot this election, including Cook County board president and board commissioners. But voters may not be as familiar with what those elected officials actually do. WBEZ politics reporter Kristen Schorsch explains how one of the largest counties in the U.S. spends its $8 billion budget and which races are especially interesting this year. Follow us on Twitter: @CityCastChicago Sign up for our newsletter: chicago.citycast.fm Call or Text Us: (773) 780-0246

Re-watching a classic film as an adult, after living for decades in the city where it's set, can bring out very different reactions than the first time you watched it. The original "Candyman" came out in 1992, and is about the urban legend of the man with a hook arm, covered in bees who haunted the Cabrini Green public housing buildings. Host Jacoby Cochran and lead producer Carrie Shepherd rewatched the film for Halloween to see if it’s still as terrifying, how Chicago looks different now, and what the film gets right and wrong about the city. Follow us on Twitter: @CityCastChicago Sign up for our newsletter: chicago.citycast.fm Call or Text Us: (773) 780-0246

TimeOut Chicago editor Emma Krupp’s job is to bring readers events that cater to a range of interests, neighborhoods, and lifestyles. Of course, Halloween weekend is a stacked calendar. Emma tells producer Simone Alicea some of the events she recommends. Families Arts in the Dark Parade Logan Square Halloween Parade Chicago Park District events Chicago Public Library events Party Procrastinators Saints and Sinners at ROOF on theWit Slash Dance at IO Godfrey Black Rose Halloween Party at Adalina Pilsen Brew-Ja Crawl Sober Celebrations: Film screenings at Davis Theater, Doc Films, and Music Box Theatre Scary: Haunted Halloween Ball at Congress Hotel Basement of the Dead Haunted House Dungeons of Doom Plus, check out our guide to Chicago-themed costumes, including some last-minute options. Follow us on Twitter: @CityCastChicago Sign up for our newsletter: chicago.citycast.fm Call or Text Us: (773) 780-0246

The South Shore neighborhood is home to beautiful beaches, amazing architecture, and an ornate ballroom where the Obamas had their wedding reception. But despite these sights, writer and longtime South Shore resident Evan Moore says the neighborhood doesn’t get the recognition and investment it deserves. He tells host Jacoby Cochran about some of his favorite things to eat, see, and do in South Shore. Places discussed: 63rd Street Beach Stony Island Arts Bank South Shore Cultural Center Rainbow Beach Jackson Park Highlands Local Market Foods Avalon Regal Theatre L&G Family Restaurant Slab BBQ South Shore Brew Italian Fiesta “New Frontier, Same Old 9” Mural Surf’s Up For more on South Shore, go back and listen to our episodes about the Avalon Regal Theater and the Obama presidential center. Plus check out South Shore events this weekend, from music at the cultural center and the Quarry to Halloween festivities. Follow us on Twitter: @CityCastChicago Sign up for our newsletter: chicago.citycast.fm Call or Text Us: (773) 780-0246

The term "cuffing season" refers to single people looking to couple up for cold weather cuddles, holiday parties, and visiting family now that the summer is over. City Cast contributor Leigh Giangreco went to the Logan Square Farmers Market, a popular meeting spot with a reputation for being "horny," to hear from people attending a singles event. Leigh tells host Jacoby Cochran how Chicagoans are pairing up this time of year. Sunday is the last day of the season for the farmers market in Logan Square. Some news: Apply for mortgage assistance from the Illinois Housing Development Authority. Help name one of the Shedd’s new sea otters Follow us on Twitter: @CityCastChicago Sign up for our newsletter: chicago.citycast.fm Call or Text Us: (773) 780-0246

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