City Cast Chicago

It was a long news week in Chicago, as the teachers union and Mayor Lori Lightfoot fought over whether kids and teachers should be in the classroom. That disagreement meant no class at all for a week before returning Wednesday. This week was also the end of the Bears’ disappointing season, which led the team to fire head coach Matt Nagy and general manager Ryan Pace. WTTW’s Paris Schutz and City Cast Chicago’s Simone Alicea break down those stories, and more. Plus, the good news is City Cast Chicago is nominated for “Best Podcast” and “Best Newsletter” in the Chicago Reader, and host Jacoby Cochran has a story in the new anthology, “Storytellers' True Stories about Love.” Guests: Paris Schutz—Host and reporter, Chicago Tonight Simone Alicea—Producer, City Cast Chicago Some Good News: Vote for City Cast Chicago for “Best Podcast” and “Best Newsletter” in the Chicago Reader’s “Best of 2021” poll Read Jacoby’s story in the anthology, “Storytellers' True Stories about Love.” And tell us your Chicago skating stories by emailing [email protected] or texting or calling (773) 780-0246. Other stories discussed: CPS students to walk out Friday Bears Chairman George McCaskey talks about the end of the season New judicial subcircuits in Cook County Aurora Mayor considering run for governor Follow us on Twitter: @CityCastChicago Sign up for our newsletter: chicago.citycast.fm

Chicago rapper Juice WRLD had a meteoric rise, going from dropping tracks on SoundCloud to becoming Billboard’s Top New Artist in less than four years. When the 21-year-old died in 2019 from a drug overdose, it sent shock waves across the city and world of music. A new album and documentary released in December continues to tell the story of the young artist and his music’s frank exploration of addiction and mental illness. We talk to Chicago music writer Mark Braboy about Juice WRLD’s impact and dig into what Braboy calls the artist’s darkest album. Guest: Mark Braboy — Freelance Music Journalist Watch “Juice WRLD: Into the Abyss” on HBOMax. Stream the album “Fighting Demons.” Check out Live Free 999, the foundation supporting mental health and addiction intervention programs started by Juice WRLD’s mom, Carmela Wallace. Follow us on Twitter: @CityCastChicago Sign up for our newsletter: chicago.citycast.fm

You may have heard host/producer Ayana Contreras on Vocalo or WBEZ, bringing soul music to the airwaves and diving into the stories behind the songs on the show, "Reclaimed Soul." Her first book, “Energy Never Dies: Afro-Optimism and Creativity in Chicago,” came out a few weeks ago, and takes those stories — and many others — to the next level by exploring the lasting impact of Chicago’s Black artists and entrepreneurs in the '60s, '70s, and '80s. Ayana sits down with City Cast Chicago host Jacoby Cochran to talk about cultural contributions like Ebony and Jet, Soul Train, and Afro Sheen, and the importance of the stories behind the music and art we love. On January 29, Ayana will be talking about her book and signing copies at the Woodson Regional Library on 95th and Halsted. Find out more and sign up here. Guest: Ayana Contreras, host of Reclaimed Soul and author of “Energy Never Dies: Afro-Optimism and Creativity in Chicago” Some Good News: Comedian Lisa Beasley is hosting a “Teachers’ Appreciation Comedy Show” at 8 p.m. tonight at the Laugh Factory. It’s also virtual. Plus, there are free tickets available for CPS teachers! Music clips in this episode from Frankie Knuckles (”Your Love,” “The Whistle Song”), Glenn Jones (”Oh Girl”), Lost Generation (”The Slick, Sly, and the Wicked”), and The Esquire (“Get on Up”). Follow us on Twitter: @CityCastChicago Sign up for our newsletter: chicago.citycast.fm

Chicago Public Schools students will return to classes Wednesday, now that the district and the Chicago Teachers Union have reached a tentative deal. Students went nearly a full week of no instruction while the union and the city clashed over COVID safety protocols. The deal promises increased COVID testing for students and school-based metrics for remote learning, but it fell short of the union's proposal to require opt-out testing for students and a district-wide remote learning metric. The agreement still needs to be approved by union members. The deal didn't keep Mayor Lori Lightfoot or union leaders from continuing to trade harsh words Monday night. And this is just the latest in a long and arduous line of fights between the mayor and CTU. Chicago Sun-Times education reporter Nader Issa explains the three major labor disputes between the Mayor and the union since since Lightfoot took office in 2019. Guest: Nader Issa—Reporter, Chicago Sun-Times Some Good News: Free days at the Shedd Aquarium. Follow us on Twitter: @CityCastChicago Sign up for our newsletter: chicago.citycast.fm

Rep. Bobby Rush has represented Illinois’ 1st District since 1993. His path to Congress was more unconventional than many of his peers’. He was co-founder of the Illinois Black Panther Party, an alderman, and eventually, the only person to ever beat Barack Obama in an election. He’s been an advocate of racial justice, but hasn’t been without controversy in the district. Rush is not running for reelection this year, paving the way for a younger candidate to step in to lead a district that includes not only Chicago’s South Side, but also rural areas like Frankfort and Mokena. Chicago Sun-Times columnist and ABC 7 commentator Laura Washington tells us about Rush’s legacy and what the race for his seat could look like. Guest: Laura Washington — Chicago Sun-Times columnist and ABC 7 political commentator Follow us on Twitter: @CityCastChicago Sign up for our newsletter: chicago.citycast.fm

WCIU reporter Brandon Pope and Block Club Chicago’s Jamie Nesbitt Golden break down the week’s news with host Jacoby Cochran, including the chaos Chicago Public Schools families, teachers, and staff experienced with late night class cancellations. Jamie was watching as a journalist and a CPS parent. Plus, what First District Congressman Bobby Rush’s legacy is now that he faces retirement, and how the Bulls are carrying all the hope for Chicago sports fans right now. Guests: Brandon Pope—WCIU Reporter and Anchor Jamie Nesbitt Golden—Reporter, Block Club Chicago Share your favorite hidden gems of Chicago! Call or text us at: (773) 780-0246 or email us [email protected] Topics discussed: CPS–CTU Conflict Rep. Bobby Rush to retire Chicago's Black Fire Brigade Juice WRLD's mom talks about leaked music, new documentary Bulls on Fire T’Challa Recast Effort Follow us on Twitter: @CityCastChicago Sign up for our newsletter: chicago.citycast.fm

Dr. Allison Arwady was confirmed as Commissioner of Chicago’s Department of Public Health just a couple months before the COVID-19 pandemic struck the city. Since then, she’s been all over the place, regularly appearing with the mayor and governor and answering coronavirus questions on Twitter and Facebook. She talks with host Jacoby Cochran about what goes into making public health decisions during a pandemic. She also explains why she thinks it’s safe for CPS students to return to in-person learning, even as omicron surges in Chicago. Guest: Dr. Allison Arwady — Commissioner, Chicago Department of Public Health Parents, teachers, students: How are you feeling about the return (or not) to in-person learning right now? Text us or leave a voicemail at (773) 780-0246 or email us at [email protected]. We may include your response in the podcast or newsletter. Also! Tell your friends about City Cast Chicago! There's swag in it for you. Tweet about us @citycastchicago! Follow us on Twitter: @CityCastChicago Sign up for our newsletter: chicago.citycast.fm

At this point, virtually all of us know someone who has had COVID-19, or we’ve gotten it ourselves. There are a lot of reasons for that — the omicron surge, a return to (somewhat) normal life, uneven vaccination. But many people, especially those who feel like they "did everything right," are often left feeling ashamed and guilty for contracting an infectious disease. The stigma around getting COVID can push people to keep their positive test results to themselves, which can lead to more infections, exacerbating the public health crisis. Clinical psychologist Dr. Sheehan Fisher explains what drives these feelings of shame, and he offers ways to help with the anxiety that comes with this wave of the pandemic. We also hear from one of our City Cast colleagues in Pittsburgh who got COVID over the holidays in 2020. Guests: Sheehan Fisher — Professor, Northwestern University Megan Harris — Senior Producer, City Cast Pittsburgh Some good news: The documentary "Unapologetic" is streaming all this month on PBS. Check out our interviews with filmmaker Ashley O'Shay and with Bella BAHHS, whose activism is showcased in the film. Follow us on Twitter: @CityCastChicago Sign up for our newsletter: chicago.citycast.fm

More than 300,000 public school kids in Chicago are expected back in the classroom today after winter break. Their return comes as the city averages nearly 4,000 COVID cases a day. Before the break, CPS sent testing kits home with about half of the district’s students. But the Chicago Teachers Union and some parents questioned the efficacy of that plan when this image was on the front page of the Chicago Tribune. The union held a virtual town hall Sunday night so members could share their concerns about teaching in person, but CPS CEO Pedro Martinez said last week he’s confident about students returning. Chicago Tribune education reporter Tracy Swartz has the latest on what the next week could look like in the country’s third largest school district. Guest: Tracy Swartz—Reporter, Chicago Tribune News: New Illinois laws enacted in 2022 Follow us on Twitter: @CityCastChicago Sign up for our newsletter: chicago.citycast.fm

We wrap up our look back on some the team's favorite stories from this year with a conversation about one of Chicago's most persistent issues: corruption. Lead producer Carrie Shepherd loved that former Inspector General Joe Ferguson held nothing back about how he thinks the city can be better. Ferguson led the office for 12 years, through three different mayors, a federal investigation into the Chicago Police Department, and numerous scandals that have revealed racism, sexism, and political patronage, as well as resulting in indictments of sitting alderpeople. He retired in October. Ferguson tells host Jacoby Cochran how his office kept pushing for more transparency and better government (even when it seemed like nothing would change). He also answers the question: Is Chicago really more corrupt than other cities? This segment was originally published on Oct. 26, 2021. Guest: Joe Ferguson — Former Inspector General, City of Chicago See you in 2022! Follow us on Twitter: @CityCastChicago Sign up for our newsletter: chicago.citycast.fm

We're decidedly city people at City Cast Chicago. But sometimes it's great to hang out in nature with people who know it well. That's why newsletter writer Sidney Madden chose this conversation with Chevon Linear and Kameron Stanton as one of her favorites of 2021. Linear and Stanton are behind the popular TikTok @black.people.outside. They make videos about their travels and local excursions to connect with other Black adventurers. The couple guided host Jacoby Cochran on a hike at the Captain Daniel Wright Forest Preserve to talk about why they make their videos and the challenges they've faced in raising the visibility of Black people in the outdoors. Plus, they show how fun it is to be outside. This segment was originally published on May 24, 2021. Follow us on Twitter: @CityCastChicago Sign up for our newsletter: chicago.citycast.fm

Let's go back to summertime Chi, when the sun was out and it was warm. And there were even horses. This story was a favorite of City Cast producer Simone Alicea. She and host Jacoby Cochran visited the South Shore Cultural center, where every year, the Broken Arrow riding Club hosts a rodeo. Yes, right there, next to a golf course, beach, and landmark event space where the Obamas hosted their wedding reception. The club has been around for more than 30 years with a mission to bring horseback riding and rodeos to people of all ethnic backgrounds and physical abilities in Chicago. As a native Chicagoan, Jacoby had never even heard of the rodeo in his backyard, so he went to talk to the man who started it all. This segment was originally published on July 1, 2021. Follow us on Twitter: @CityCastChicago Sign up for our newsletter: chicago.citycast.fm

All this week, we're replaying some of the team's favorite stories from 2021. Host Jacoby Cochran picked this story about Illinois' nascent cannabis industry. When state lawmakers legalized weed in 2019, they promised licenses and revenues would go to Black and brown communities hit hardest by the war on drugs. But cannabis remains dominated by white growers and sellers. And confusion remains, despite new legislation and additional rounds of dispensary license lotteries this summer. Chicago Sun-Times reporter Tom Schuba covers the marijuana industry. He explains the state of Illinois' cannabis social equity program. Jacoby also talks to a social equity applicant who was awarded licenses for cultivation and infusion. This segment was originally published on Sept. 9, 2021. Guests: Tom Schuba — Reporter, Chicago Sun-Times Willie "JR" Fleming — Founder, Hemp for Hoods Follow us on Twitter: @CityCastChicago Sign up for our newsletter: chicago.citycast.fm

On City Cast Chicago, we often focus our stories around neighborhoods. That’s partly because of the old Chicago adage that we’re a "city of neighborhoods.” But it’s also because when you say the name of a neighborhood in our city, it conjures up images of the area: the racial makeup of it, how affluent it is, if disinvestment has plagued it, if it has single-family homes with yards, or is dense with three-flats or high rises. The City Cast team is taking you through each of OUR neighborhoods with some recommendations on where to eat, where to shop, and where you can donate time or money. Uptown: Demera, Qideas, Chinese Mutual Aid Association Lakeview: D’Agostino’s, Bonus Round Cafe, Center on Halsted Ukrainian Village/Humboldt Park: Jeff & Judes, Komoda, CAWC Hyde Park/South Shore: Majani, The Silver Room, Brave Space Alliance Follow us on Twitter: @CityCastChicago Sign up for our newsletter: chicago.citycast.fm

While many of us are just trying to get through the rest of 2021, Mayor Lori Lightfoot spent the week before the holiday making promises to combat the two most pressing issues facing Chicago: The omicron surge and violent crime. On Monday, she gave a 40-minute speech outlining her public safety plans, spanning everything from suing gangs, cracking down on electronic monitoring, and bringing in more federal help. The next day, the mayor announced the city will require people 5 and older to provide proof of vaccination to dine indoors, work out in gyms, and visit other indoor entertainment venues, starting in the new year. Block Club Chicago’s Kelly Bauer has been following these announcements, and she joins us to break them down. Guest: Kelly Bauer—Breaking news editor, Block Club Chicago Follow us on Twitter: @CityCastChicago Sign up for our newsletter: chicago.citycast.fm

The City Cast Chicago team are all very vocal cold weather haters. And while we have been spared so far this year from the bone-chilling temps, wind that pierces our souls, and ice that turns our sidewalks into skating rinks, it's sure to come soon. We’ve learned there are people who don’t just tolerate the cold, but LIKE it. Producer Simone Alicea takes a stroll with one of these cold weather lovers. Guests: Erin Vickers — City Cast listener Brian Leatherwood — Meteorologist, National Weather Service Chicago Follow us on Twitter: @CityCastChicago Sign up for our newsletter: chicago.citycast.fm

For more than 40 years, “Bozo’s Circus” was a daily, and later, weekly presence on the televisions of kids and their parents. And in Chicago, we really claimed Bozo, Cookie and his friends as our own because the show taped at WGN studios. But, Bozo didn’t originate here, and other cities even had their OWN Bozos. But, ours was the best. The show has been off the air since 2001, but actor—and native Evanstonian—David Arquette recently purchased the rights to Bozo, and says he wants to bring the clown that brought him so much joy back to Chicago. We talk about the history of Bozo the Clown, and hear what made it so special. Guest: Mike Toomey—WGN TV announcer and Bozo fan **Karaoke Storytellers on Sunday was POSTPONED. We'll keep you posted on the new date.** Links: David Arquette talks to WGN about buying rights to Bozo Follow us on Twitter: @CityCastChicago Sign up for our newsletter: chicago.citycast.fm

Injustice Watch senior reporter Maya Dukmasova and Chicago Reader culture editor Salem Collo-Julin join host Jacoby Cochran to look back on a few stories from the week, including one judge’s obsession with an alcohol monitoring bracelet called SCRAM, the ongoing fallout after tornadoes tore across the Midwest over the weekend, and, oh, did anyone check out the Cook County Democrats’ endorsements? No, not the big ones, but the down-ballot races. Plus, learn the team’s go-to Karaoke Songs! Guests: Maya Dukmasova—Sr. Reporter, Injustice Watch Salem Collo-Julin—Culture Editor, Chicago Reader Don't Forget! This Sunday at 7 p.m., City Cast Chicago will be at Schuba's Tavern for Karaoke Storytellers, hosted by Jacoby Cochran. Get your tickets! Vax required! Stories discussed: Cook County Judge Vazquez’s heavy use of sobriety monitor highlights oversight gaps Tornadoes ripped the roof off American capitalism Democrats endorsed for Cook County judge are diverse, experienced — and loyal Neo: Where Misfits Fit in One Degree Hotter: How Megan Thee Stallion Made Good on Her Promise to Graduate College Follow us on Twitter: @CityCastChicago Sign up for our newsletter: chicago.citycast.fm

In the early 1960s, Gloria Allen, aka Mama Gloria, was ridiculed by teachers and fellow students at Englewood High School for being a “sissy.” Allen says no one knew back then what being transgender meant. But she always knew she was a girl, and with the support of her mother, grandmother, and some neighbors, Allen was able to embrace who she really was. Living that authentic life is what helped her when she experienced traumatic sexual violence. “Mama Gloria,” streaming now on PBS, is a documentary of Allen’s life in Chicago, including attending “Sissy Balls” in the 1960s and starting a charm school for young people. Allen talks to host Jacoby Cochran about the continued fight for transgender rights. **Warning: This episode includes descriptions of sexual violence** Some good news: Matt Muse and Jamila Woods are hosting a benefit concert Friday at The Metro for his “Love and Nappyness” hair care drive. Here’s where to drop off hygiene products. And there’s still time to sign up for our newsletter for a chance to win two tickets to Karaoke Storytellers at Schuba’s Tavern on Sunday! Follow us on Twitter: @CityCastChicago Sign up for our newsletter: chicago.citycast.fm

Music is known as a therapeutic tool, but usually that conjures up thoughts of soothing sounds, learning to play an instrument, or writing song lyrics as a form of expression. But for many people, it also includes popping into a local karaoke bar, signing up for the song you want to sing, making friends with regulars who also sing, feeling vulnerable, finding community, and building routine. This culture was the inspiration for Karaoke Storytellers, an event where performers tell a story, then sing a song connected to that story. We talk with David Johnson, a military veteran who used karaoke as a way to build connection and purpose after his final tour of duty. Johnson, who’s performed with Karaoke Storytellers in the past, explains how karaoke helped him share his story. Sign up for our newsletter for a chance to win two tickets to Karaoke Storytellers at Schuba’s Tavern on Sunday, hosted by Jacoby Cochran. Follow us on Twitter: @CityCastChicago Sign up for our newsletter: chicago.citycast.fm

Each year, tens of thousands of super fans, aka cosplayers, head to McCormick Place Convention Center to celebrate their shared love of Star Wars, Marvel Comics, and all sorts of characters that dominate spheres of pop culture. Since the pandemic shut down gatherings and conventions, participating in those communities has been limited to online, and has left past attendees feeling lonely and isolated. Last weekend, with limited capacity and vaccination required, CE2E was held in person at McCormick Place. City Cast Chicago’s Jacoby Cochran and Simone Alicea headed to C2E2 to talk to attendees about what returning in person meant for their sense of community, and how safe they felt. Sign up for our newsletter for a chance to win 2 tickets to Karaoke Storytellers at Schuba's Tavern on Sunday, hosted by Jacoby Cochran. Follow us on Twitter: @CityCastChicago Sign up for our newsletter: chicago.citycast.fm

The Second City. Windy City. The City of Big Shoulders. Chicago is known by many names. “We matter so much to the country, people always talking about us,” says Shermann “Dilla” Thomas, aka The TikTok Historian. Dilla talks about the history of some of these nicknames with host Jacoby Cochran, and they discuss what these monikers say about the city. Plus, Dilla just can’t help but drop a few other Chicago history facts. Nominate City Cast Chicago as “Best Podcast” and “Best Newsletter” in Chicago Reader’s Best of Chicago 2021! Follow us on Twitter: @CityCastChicago Sign up for our newsletter: chicago.citycast.fm

Jussie Smollett was found guilty Thursday evening of falsely reporting to police that he was a victim of a hate crime in January 2019. It’s been nearly three years of conflicting stories and political rancor leading up to the jury’s decision, after the former “Empire” actor said he was attacked outside his Streeterville apartment, and police later accused Smollett of staging the crime. The City Cast team looks back on what morphed into a convoluted and public debate over whether it was all a hoax. Jacoby Cochran, Carrie Shepherd, and Simone Alicea relive the twists and turns of the case while trying understand why (or if) we should care about it. Follow us on Twitter: @CityCastChicago Sign up for our newsletter: chicago.citycast.fm

Journalist Michael J. O'Loughlin is gay and Catholic, and his latest book explores the intersection of those two worlds. “Hidden Mercy: AIDS, Catholics, and the Untold Stories of Compassion in the Face of Fear” profiles church members who were behind scenes caring for people with HIV and AIDS, even as the institutional church denounced these individuals. Some of these nuns and priests were the only ones caring for patients who were abandoned by family and friends. City Cast Chicago’s Simone Alicea talks to O’Loughlin about how his personal faith journey brought him to this story. Guest: Michael O’Loughlin — National Correspondent, America Magazine O’Loughlin is speaking about the book on Dec. 10 at the Catholic Theological Union. You can attend virtually or in person. Illinois’ weed tax windfall tops $560 million. Here’s where the money goes and more stories in our newsletter. Some good news: Wrigleyville Wonderland! Follow us on Twitter: @CityCastChicago Sign up for our newsletter: chicago.citycast.fm

For their podcast “77 Flavors of Chicago,” Dario Durham and Sara Faddah seek to visit each of Chicago’s 77 community areas to taste some of the best food the city has to offer. Host Jacoby Cochran recently joined the couple at Mikkey’s Retro Grill in Avalon Park. The trio throw down on some burgers, jerk fries, and even vegan options, while talking about the changing South Side. Follow Sara and Dario on Instagram. Plus, go back and listen to Jacoby’s interview with the couple and his last outing with them in Hermosa. Some good news: Meet the City Cast team during Karaoke Storytellers at Schuba’s Tavern on Dec. 19, featuring Lisa Beasley and Joanne Molinaro, aka the Korean Vegan. Follow us on Twitter: @CityCastChicago Sign up for our newsletter: chicago.citycast.fm

Generations of residents in West Side neighborhoods like Austin have complained that police don’t come when they call 911. The Central Austin Neighborhood Association even sued the city over the problem in 2011. A decade later, a settlement has been finalized. It includes a requirement that Chicago Police track response times in each of the department’s 22 districts and make the data public. Block Club Chicago’s Pascal Sabino explains neighborhood advocates believe the data will confirm years of anecdotes, and they hope to use it to spur change. Guest: Pascal Sabino — Reporter, Block Club Chicago A little bit of news, y’all: City Council is set to vote on sports betting at Chicago’s stadium’s. Go back and listen to our episode about the city’s growing gambling scene. And some good news: Help light up 575 trees along Douglas Boulevard in North Lawndale. Follow us on Twitter: @CityCastChicago Sign up for our newsletter: chicago.citycast.fm

Right now, thousands of Chicago Public School kids and their families are stressing about where they’re going to high school. That’s because Dec. 15 is the deadline to apply to the district’s selective enrollment schools. There are 11 selective enrollment public high schools in Chicago, some of which are included in lists for the best schools in the country — schools like Whitney Young, Walter Payton, and Gwendolyn Brooks. WBEZ education reporter Sarah Karp walks us through the history of why these schools exist, inequities in enrollment, and the process to get in. Plus, City Cast Chicago newsletter writer Sidney Madden shares her experience of applying to Whitney Young High School ten years ago. Guests: Sarah Karp—Education reporter, WBEZ Sidney Madden—Newsletter writer, City Cast Chicago Follow us on Twitter: @CityCastChicago Sign up for our newsletter: chicago.citycast.fm

Former “Empire” actor Jussie Smollett is charged with lying about being attacked nearly three years ago outside his Streeterville apartment. The alleged-hate-crime-turned-alleged-hoax was a big deal when it happened, but City Cast’s Simone Alicea and Carrie Shepherd are a little exhausted by the story. They share their fatigue with Chicago Tribune’s Stephanie Casanova, who tells us about a fight over tenant rights in Avalon Park and a heartwarming message from Bronzeville’s “Taco Lady.” They also discuss omicron, booster shots, the resignation of Red Stars coach Rory Dames, and the holiday experiences they’re looking forward to. Guests: Stephanie Casanova—Reporter, Chicago Tribune Carrie Shepherd—Lead Producer, City Cast Chicago Stories We Talked About: ‘Nobody cares’: NWSL players say U.S. Soccer failed to act on abuse claims against Red Stars coach A SWAT situation, a fire, no water and heat. And then a building is condemned, and residents are forced from their home days before Thanksgiving. About 15% of Illinois residents have gotten COVID-19 booster shot, as Omicron enters U.S. and Illinois faces surge Good News: She has sold tacos in Bronzeville for 40 years. Her customers keep coming back, say her food is ‘made with love.’ First-Ever ‘Golden Girls’ Festival Slated For North Halsted in Lakeview in April Follow us on Twitter: @CityCastChicago Sign up for our newsletter: chicago.citycast.fm

We’ve been covering Chicago’s ward remap at City Cast Chicago, but here’s a reminder: The remap process takes place every decade after the census, and it’s meant to reflect changing demographics of the city. Each time, transparency and public input are promised. Then alderpersons gather behind closed doors and negotiate with each other about which boundaries would serve each of them and allow them to be reelected. Dec. 1 — Wednesday — was the deadline for approving a new map. But in the days leading up to it, City Council meetings were canceled, the mayor left town, and the public still hadn’t seen an official map. Without a map approved by at least 41 alderpersons, there’s now a chance voters could have final say on Chicago’s ward boundaries. But politics reporter A.D. Quig explains it’s just a chance and there’s still a lot more negotiating and dealing to come. Guest: A.D. Quig — Politics reporter, Crain’s Chicago Business Listen to our past coverage of the census and ward remap: The push for an Asian American–majority ward An alternative, independent mapping process How shifting demographics shift political power Follow us on Twitter: @CityCastChicago Sign up for our newsletter: chicago.citycast.fm

Illinois Gov. JB Pritzker in August signed into law legislation requiring sex education in K-12 schools to teach about HIV, consent, and the role of technology in sexual health. Pritzker and backers of the bill said it modernizes sex education, but schools and parents can still opt out of the curriculum. On this World AIDS Day, Lead Producer Carrie Shepherd talks to a clinical psychologist from Northwestern University whose expertise includes HIV prevention and sexual and gender minority populations. They discuss what young people today understand about HIV and where there still needs to be more awareness. Guest: Kathryn Macapagal — Professor, Northwestern University Follow us on Twitter: @CityCastChicago Sign up for our newsletter: chicago.citycast.fm

David Plotz, CEO of City Cast and co-host of Slate's "Political Gabfest," is a lifelong Washingtonian who knows the ins and outs of THAT city. But now, in his current role at City Cast, he has to learn about about a slew of new cities that are part of the company's network: Denver, Houston, and, of course, Chicago. So, naturally, he has questions. David asks host Jacoby Cochran and Lead Producer Carrie Shepherd about the “L,” Oprah and Kanye, and, yes, pizza. Guest: David Plotz A little bit of news, y'all: Giving Tuesday Organizations List: Block Club Chicago, Crain's Chicago Business Chicago Elite Classic 12/3-12/4 Follow us on Twitter: @CityCastChicago Sign up for our newsletter: chicago.citycast.fm

Chicago's Black population is the lowest it's been since the 1950s. What was once a destination for Black Southerners seeking more opportunity and racial equity is now a city they're fleeing to move to nearby states, like Indiana, but also farther away like Texas, Georgia and Arizona. Chicago Tribune's Will Lee talked to former Chicagoans. Lee explains why they say they’re leaving, and as life-long Chicagoans, he and host Jacoby Cochran talk about their own personal struggles on whether to stay or go. Guest: William Lee — Reporter, Chicago Tribune Follow us on Twitter: @CityCastChicago Sign up for our newsletter: chicago.citycast.fm

As many of us enjoy delicious food over the Thanksgiving holiday, we wanted to take a moment to look back on a story about a Chicagoan working to feed his neighbors. Dion Dawson was asked in 2020 what he wanted to do to help his Englewood community. He responded that he wanted to feed 100 families. Fast forward a year, and Dion's Chicago Dream is running a community fridge that the organization keeps full of fresh produce, and delivering groceries to families from Maywood to Evanston. Dion tells host Jacoby Cochran it was his own food insecurity growing up that made him want to help feed his neighbors and give back to the neighborhood he loves. Get involved with Dion's Chicago Dream. **This story was originally published Aug. 9, 2021** Follow us on Twitter: @CityCastChicago Sign up for our newsletter: chicago.citycast.fm

Last year, the Wabash Arts Corridor commissioned two murals in the South Loop to celebrate the centennial of women’s suffrage. While one mural has been installed, the other has been blocked by a nearby parking lot owner who said it was “too political.” Lead producer Carrie Shepherd visited the site at Wabash and Harrison and has been looking into what happened. She explains what happened and how it fits into Chicago’s larger conversation about the purpose of public monuments and public art. We also hear from the artist behind the blocked mural. Guests: Carrie Shepherd — Lead Producer, City Cast Chicago Dorian Sylvain — Artist Follow us on Twitter: @CityCastChicago Sign up for our newsletter: chicago.citycast.fm

A group of South Shore neighbors pooled their money to buy and restore a historic vacant apartment building in their neighborhood. Mayor Lori Lightfoot remains on the fence as alders continue to spar over the city’s next ward map. And one Chicagoan may have caught the biggest carp in Illinois at the Humboldt Park lagoon, leaving the rest of us wondering, “Where the hell did this 72-pound behemoth come from?” Block Club Chicago’s Maxwell Evans and Crain’s Chicago Business’ A.D. Quig stop by to talk about these stories and more. Plus, Thanksgiving is next week so we’re talking favorite side dishes and the City Cast Chicago team says what they’re thankful for this year! Guests: Maxwell Evans — Hyde Park, Woodlawn, and South Shore reporter, Block Club Chicago A.D. Quig — Politics and government reporter, Crain's Chicago Business Stories discussed: South Shore neighbors restore a historic vacant apartment building Southeast Sider helps a couple from Indiana stranded in Chicago Why you should care about the Cook County Assessor’s race Man catches gigantic carp in Humboldt Park lagoon

The film “Passing,” now streaming on Netflix, is based on Nella Larsen’s 1929 novel of the same name. Irene Redfield and Clare Kendry are two light-skinned Black women who grew up on Chicago’s South Side—just like Larsen. One of the women is “passing” as white while the other is heavily involved with the Harlem community where she now lives. Writer and Larsen scholar Amina Gautier explains how Chicago played an integral role in the author’s life and in the story. Guest: Amina Gautier—Writer and University of Miami Professor A little bit of news, y'all: Comment as Chicago Police develop a new gang database, after the old one was found to be riddled with errors and proven to be racially biased Find a park with ice skating near you Follow us on Twitter: @CityCastChicago Sign up for our newsletter: chicago.citycast.fm

The Illinois Restaurant Association says even as establishments continue to reopen since the start of the pandemic, 100,000 restaurants have closed nationwide, and the industry is still down 70,000 jobs in Illinois. Worker advocates say one way to fix that shortage is to get rid of the subminimum wage. That’s the minimum hourly rate employers have to pay tipped workers like waiters and bartenders because the law assumes the combination of the lower wage and tips will equal the full minimum wage. One of those advocates is Saru Jayaraman, president of One Fair Wage. Jayaraman was in Chicago this week visiting restaurants that have abandoned the subminimum wage—at least for now. She talks to host Jacoby Cochran about the campaign. And we hear from a worker who left the industry and says she’s not going back. Guests: Saru Jayaraman — President, One Fair Wage Jewel Simmons — Former Chicago restaurant worker Follow us on Twitter: @CityCastChicago Sign up for our newsletter: chicago.citycast.fm

When the FDA approved the Pfizer vaccine for kids between the ages of 5 and 11 a little more than two weeks ago, parents quickly tried to secure spots to get their kids vaxxed. Even before the approval, Chicago Public Health Commissioner Allison Arwady assured parents and guardians that getting the vaccine “was not going to be the Hunger Games,” the way it often felt when the vaccine was approved for adults. A health care reporter details the early days of the pediatric vaccine roll-out, and we talk to a family in suburban Palos Park about how they’re feeling now that two teens are fully vaxxed and two kids are partly vaxxed. Guests: Lisa Schencker—Health care business reporter, Chicago Tribune The Narciso Family Where to find the vaccine Follow us on Twitter: @CityCastChicago Sign up for our newsletter: chicago.citycast.fm

The Chicago Blackhawks are trying to regain the trust of fans after it was revealed last month that the team didn’t respond appropriately to a player’s allegations of sexual assault. Two hockey fans say this case represents a toxic culture that the sport must confront. Former Chicago Sun-Times reporter Evan Moore and sports reporter Jashvina Shah have been looking at toxic behavior in hockey for years because they love the sport and want it to change. Their new book “Game Misconduct: Hockey's Toxic Culture and How to Fix It” is out now. Moore and Shah tell host Jacoby Cochran what they think contributes to the toxicity. Guests: Evan Moore—Co-author, “Game Misconduct: Hockey's Toxic Culture and How to Fix It” Jashvina Shah—Co-author, “Game Misconduct: Hockey's Toxic Culture and How to Fix It” Follow us on Twitter: @CityCastChicago Sign up for our newsletter: chicago.citycast.fm

When Kristen Kaza and Elijah McKinnon opened the events space Reunion in 2016 in Humboldt Park their mission was to create "a haven for Queer and minority creatives." Kaza and McKinnon have hosted comedy nights, dance parties, art exhibits, and other events that celebrate the LQBTQ+ and BIPOC communities. They announced in October they are closing Reunion. Kaza and McKinnon talk to host Jacoby Cochran about the importance of spaces that cultivate community, and allow patrons to feel like they belong. Events from Nov. 11-Nov. 19: “The Sweetest Gift: A Farewell To Reunion Chicago”

Chicago Public Schools CEO Pedro Martinez announced last week that students would not have classes Friday for “Vaccination Awareness Day,” but some parents were caught off guard and wondered how they were going to use a work day to get their kids vaxxed. Kyle Rittenhouse took the stand in his trial in Kenosha, Wisconsin. He faces seven charges, including first-degree reckless homicide and first-degree intentional homicide for his killings of two men during protests in Kenosha last year. And activists and McDonald’s employees are calling on CEO Chris Kempczinski to be fired for what they say is racist behavior by the executive. City Cast Chicago’s Carrie Shepherd, Simone Alicea, and Jacoby Cochran break down those stories. Follow us on Twitter: @CityCastChicago Sign up for our newsletter: chicago.citycast.fm

The Illinois Department of Veterans Affairs told state lawmakers this week they need more staff and better access to housing and healthcare. The numbers back up the critical need to take care of veterans. The rate of suicides among veterans is nearly double that of the civilian population, according to the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs. But Northwestern University professor Michelle Shumate says mental health treatment and suicide hotlines aren’t enough to help veterans as they transition to civilian life. Shumate has been researching how organizations that help with housing, food, and jobs can contribute to better mental health for veterans. She shares what she hears from veterans about what they need. Guest: Michelle Shumate —Delaney Family University Research Professor, Northwestern University Chicago Veterans Day Events: The city is hosting a ceremony at Soldier Field at 11 a.m. Auditorium Theatre is hosting tours for veterans and their families from 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Vax Info for CPS Families: CPS City Cast Chicago newsletter Follow us on Twitter: @CityCastChicago Sign up for our newsletter: chicago.citycast.fm

The prosecution rested Tuesday in the trial of Kyle Rittenhouse. The Antioch resident was 17 when he shot and killed two men and injured another last year in Kenosha, Wisconsin, amid demonstrations following the police shooting of Jacob Blake. Chicago Tribune’s Stacy St. Clair is in Kenosha following the trial. She lays out what’s happened during this first week, what the defense is expected to present, and why Chicago is watching closely. Guest: Stacy St. Clair — Reporter, Chicago Tribune Follow us on Twitter: @CityCastChicago Sign up for our newsletter: chicago.citycast.fm

More than $5 billion was wagered on sports in Illinois in the last year, after the state legalized sports betting. And Chicago’s big sports franchises — Bulls, Bears, Cubs, Sox, and Sky— want to get in on the action. They’re pushing a city ordinance that would allow sports betting at stadiums. While alders with arenas in their wards are on board, they’re facing pushback from gaming moguls looking to develop Chicago’s new casino. The Daily Line Chicago’s Alex Nitkin has been following the developments, including Monday’s hearing about the sports betting ordinance, and he has the latest. Guest: Alex Nitkin—Editor and city hall reporter, The Daily Line Chicago

While most of us had to adjust to getting an extra hour of sleep Sunday (and an earlier sunset), lawmakers across the country, including in Illinois, are imagining a future where we don’t adjust clocks at all. There are bills in Springfield that propose moving the state to daylight saving time year-round — a move that’s been embraced by 19 other states in the last four years — while others would prefer to stay in standard time all year. But where does daylight saving time come from? And what’s driving the debate? City Cast Chicago’s Simone Alicea breaks it down. Jacoby's Good News: Photography Week at Columbia College Follow us on Twitter: @CityCastChicago Sign up for our newsletter: chicago.citycast.fm

It’s the first Friday of November and we have two huge Bulls fans with us to look back on a few stories from across Chicago. The Triibe’s Tonia Hill and WBEZ reporter Susie An join us to discuss the media’s coverage of Cook County State’s Attorney Kim Foxx, the growing number of women in Chicago radio speaking out against a toxic workplace culture, and we ask, “Why so much shade Scottie?” Also, we’re still talking about school lunches! Guests: Suzie An—Reporter, WBEZ Tonia Hill—Producer, The Triibe What is/was your favorite and least favorite cafeteria item? Let us know at [email protected] or hit us on twitter! Follow us on Twitter: @CityCastChicago Sign up for our newsletter: chicago.citycast.fm

In mid-October, longtime health and food reporter Monica Eng was peeking at Chicago Public Schools’ lunch menus. Yes, for fun. Monica was pleasantly surprised to learn that CPS had launched “Plant Forward Thursdays,” the district’s take on meatless options available to about 300,000 students, many of whom rely on schools for daily meals. Of course Monica wanted to know what the “lentil Joe sandwich” tasted like. But she hit a roadblock. We talk to Monica about CPS’ rollout of meatless meals and about her decades-long quest to make school lunches healthier. Guest: Monica Eng — Reporter, Axios Chicago Follow us on Twitter: @CityCastChicago Sign up for our newsletter: chicago.citycast.fm

The Chicago Bulls are 6-1 for the first time since 2012 and sit at the top of the Eastern Conference. Obviously, the NBA season is barely two weeks old, but the Bulls look like a different team on the court than in previous years. Powered by DeMar DeRozan’s shooting and Zach LaVine’s scoring, the team has beat a dangerous Utah Jazz team, and had a 19-point comeback Monday in a win against the Celtics in Boston. On the defensive end, the team looks energized. Laurence Holmes is host of the podcast “House of L” and joins us to put this early start in perspective. We discuss the Bull’s offseason moves, this 6-1 start, and we ask what is the ceiling for this team? Guest: Laurence Holmes—Host, 670 TheScore and “House of L” podcast Jacoby's Good News: Hot Chocolate 5k and 15k Race Follow us on Twitter: @CityCastChicago Sign up for our newsletter: chicago.citycast.fm

As Chicago Public Schools students enter their third month in the school year, nearly 4,000 of them are without reliable transportation to and from school. More than half of those students are diverse learners with special needs. The district’s transportation problem stems from a bus driver shortage happening in Chicago and across the country. Late last week, the Chicago Board of Education gave an update on who is still waiting for a reliable transportation plan from CPS and what alternatives the district has proposed. Chalkbeat reporter Mauricio Peña breaks down those plans and tells us what he’s hearing from parents. And we talk to Chicago tech entrepreneur Ismael El-Amin about his start-up called Piggyback, which connects parents whose kids need a ride with parents who can offer one. Guests: Mauricio Peña—Reporter, Chalkbeat Ismael El-Amin—Founder, Piggyback

Mercy Hospital in Chicago’s Bronzeville neighborhood is a safety net hospital, which means it takes any patient, regardless of income or insurance. But it’s been so much more than that. It's an institution on the South Side, where Chinese and Spanish speaking residents could talk to staff in their native language, and expectant mothers could deliver their babies close to home. So when the hospital declared bankruptcy in February, staff, patients, and neighbors were sad, scared, and worried about what would happen to Mercy. Those worries didn’t go away when the hospital was sold to a Michigan nonprofit. For the last year, WBEZ’s Kristen Schorsch has been following the hospital’s financial decline and its hopeful resurrection. She explains why places like Mercy are essential and what the future holds for it. Guests: Kristen Schorsch—Reporter, WBEZ Etta Davis—Mercy Hospital patient and member of Chicago Health Equity Coalition Follow us on Twitter: @CityCastChicago Sign up for our newsletter: chicago.citycast.fm