City Cast Chicago

Two years into the pandemic, domestic violence cases continue to rise as victims are stuck at home with the people who harm them and are isolated from outside communities that may be able to offer help. Earlier this week, Mayor Lori Lightfoot joined advocates to remind domestic violence victims and survivors what resources are available to them. Amanda Pyron is executive director of The Network, which runs the state’s domestic violence hotline, provides training for advocates, and connects victims with resources. We talk to Pyron about the misconceptions around domestic violence and what resources are still needed. Guest: Amanda Pyron — Executive Director, The Network Illinois Domestic Violence Hotline: 877-863-6338 (877-TO END DV) There's also an option to Live Chat for help Follow us on Twitter: @CityCastChicago Sign up for our newsletter: chicago.citycast.fm

While other kids were bringing turkey or bologna sandwiches to school, Boyede Sobitan was packing jollof rice with goat meat. Sobitan grew up in Uptown and suburban Dolton, and he remembers how difficult it was for his Nigerian mother to get the traditional ingredients she needed. Often it meant spending all day at specialty markets that were far from where they lived. That’s why Sobitan and his business partner Fola Dada created OjaExpress, a delivery app for ethnic foods. Lead producer Carrie Shepherd talks with Sobitan about how it works and why having access to your cultural food is so important. Guest: Boyede Sobitan—Co-founder, OjaExpress Some Good News: Funkytown Brewery and Grown Folks Stories at Haymarket Pub and Brewery Follow us on Twitter: @CityCastChicago Sign up for our newsletter: chicago.citycast.fm

On this Valentine’s Day, we’re celebrating love in Chicago. When we hiked with the couple behind the popular TikTok “Black People Outside,” we couldn’t get over how cute they are. Kam Stanton and Chevy Linear tell us how they got together. We also revisit our conversation with Dario Durham and Sara Faddah, who says doing the podcast “77 Flavors of Chicago” is like “tricking people into listening to us on date night.” But it’s not all about romantic love. Host Jacoby Cochran shares a love story about his family’s skating rink. Plus, we hear your Chicago love stories. Go back and listen to Kam and Chevy talk about raising the visibility of Black people in the outdoors and hear Sara and Dario talk more about their food traditions and visit Mikkey’s Grill in Avalon Park with Jacoby. Read Jacoby's story about his family's skating rink in "Storytellers' True Stories about Love." Follow us on Twitter: @CityCastChicago Sign up for our newsletter: chicago.citycast.fm

Governor JB Pritzker has announced that Illinois is on track to remove the statewide mask mandate by February 28. The Chicago Department of Public Health echoed the Gov’s message and said if COVID cases and hospitalizations continue to decrease the city could also drop the mandate at the end of the month. Lead Producer Carrie Shepherd, Producer Simone Alicea, and Host Jacoby Cochran break down the latest in the mask debate and, also discuss the absence of grocery stores in West Garfield Park, warming temperatures, and their moments of joy! Follow us on Twitter: @CityCastChicago Sign up for our newsletter: chicago.citycast.fm

Live theater is a huge cultural and economic pillar in Chicago. But it’s no surprise that theaters have struggled since the start of the pandemic. With Chicago Theatre Week starting next Thursday, we check in with a critic to see how the industry is doing in its third pandemic season. Chicago Reader’s Kerry Reid tells producer Simone Alicea about how theaters are getting back to live performances, especially as omicron subsides, and she recommends some shows to watch. Guest: Kerry Reid — Theater and Dance Editor, Chicago Reader Chicago Theatre Week runs Feb. 17-27. We want to hear your Chicago love stories for a Valentine’s Day podcast. Leave us a voicemail with your name, neighborhood, and story at (773) 780-0246. Follow us on Twitter: @CityCastChicago Sign up for our newsletter: chicago.citycast.fm

In 1972, Camille Cook started the Film Center at the School of the Art Institute Chicago to screen auteur, independent, and international films. What started in a room at Tribune Tower, then a basement at the MCA, then an auditorium at the Art Institute is now Gene Siskel Film Center on State Street. In addition to screening films, it features director Q&As and lecture series. For its 50th anniversary, the Gene Siskel Film Center is weekly screening a film from each year it’s been open. We talk to the executive director and director of programming about the history, running a theater during a pandemic, and how to narrow it down to just 50 films. Guests: Jean de St. Aubin — Executive Director, Gene Siskel Film Center Rebecca Fons — Director of Programming, Gene Siskel Film Center We are collecting your Chicago love stories! Leave us a message with your name, neighborhood, and story at (773) 780-0246. Follow us on Twitter: @CityCastChicago Sign up for our newsletter: chicago.citycast.fm

The city announced last week a $38 million redevelopment of a vacant 21-acre industrial lot in North Lawndale. As a part of the INVEST South/West initiative, the project would feature freight operations, a job training center, and even public park space. But about 30 years ago, this vacant land was home to an illegal dumping site. It was also the key location in “Operation Silver Shovel,” a federal anti-corruption investigation into dozens of city and state officials. Robin Amer investigated this shady past in the USA Today podcast “The City.” Robin reminds us this dump was located in the middle of a residential neighborhood across from a school, church, and in a neglected community. Guest: Robin Amer — Senior podcast producer, Washington Post Some Good News: "Women of Soul" at the Mercury Theater Share your Chicago love stories! Leave a message with your name, neighborhood and story at: (773) 780-0246 Follow us on Twitter: @CityCastChicago Sign up for our newsletter: chicago.citycast.fm

Over the last several decades, the south suburban Harvey has gone from a model town, home to thousands of manufacturing jobs and Dixie Square Mall, to a community with a dwindling population and increased poverty. To make things worse, the primarily Black city hasn’t had its own newspaper for decades, so most of the coverage of these issues comes from outside the city and it’s not really for Harvey residents. That’s where the Harvey World Herald comes in. The online publication went live Jan. 31st with a one-person newsroom dedicated to bringing local news back to the community. That one person is Amethyst Davis. Davis is part of the Tiny News Collective. With the help of big names like Google and Reuters, the collective helps bankroll news operations in places that have been underserved by media. Davis joins host Jacoby Cochran to talk about growing up in Harvey and the challenges of reviving news in the city. Guest: Amethyst Davis — Founder, Harvey World Herald We are collecting Chicago love stories. Tell us about how you fell in love IN or WITH Chicago, and we might feature your story on the podcast or in our newsletter. Call or text us at (773) 780-0246 or send us an email at [email protected]. Follow us on Twitter: @CityCastChicago Sign up for our newsletter: chicago.citycast.fm

For six months, Chicago Reader and Injustice Watch have been investigating allegations of sexism, inappropriate behavior, and bias by Judge Raul Vega, the formerly highest ranking judge in the domestic violence division at Cook County Circuit Court. Now, under a growing trail of complaints, Vega is retiring. Not only will formal inquiries into his behavior end, but the judge will be allowed to keep his $14,000 a month pension. Chicago Reader reporter Kelly Garcia led the investigation and breaks down that story and more news of the week. We're also joined by Chicago Reader’s social justice reporter Adam Rhodes. They discuss the early release of Jason Van Dyke, the former Chicago police officer who murdered Laquan McDonald in 2014, and Kelly shares her birthday love for Saba’s new album, “Few Good Things.” Guests: Kelly Garcia—Reporter, Chicago Reader Adam Rhodes—Reporter, Chicago Reader Follow us on Twitter: @CityCastChicago Sign up for our newsletter: chicago.citycast.fm

Gov. JB Pritzker on Wednesday outlined his 2022 state budget proposal. The Democrat painted a picture of a healthier and more fiscally sound Illinois. Host Jacoby Cochran breaks down what you need to know about this year’s budget, and we take a look back at a less rosy period in Illinois budget history — the two years we didn’t have one. The budget impasse from 2015-2017 led to cuts in social services. New research from Northwestern University links the deadlock to a spike in youth homicides around the same time. Producer Simone Alicea talks with one of the authors of the study. Guest: Maryann Mason — Professor, Feinberg School of Medicine Follow us on Twitter: @CityCastChicago Sign up for our newsletter: chicago.citycast.fm

You’ve been feeling it, right? That existential dread about everything that’s wrong in the world. The feeling that the world is going to end — and soon. Every year, scientists in Chicago try to pinpoint just how close we are to “doomsday.” And they do it with the Doomsday Clock. The clock was created here in 1947 at the request of scientists who worked on the atomic bomb at the University of Chicago. Since then, the clock has moved closer to midnight when existential threats increased and further away when the world became safer. The clock currently stands at 100 seconds to midnight — the closest it’s ever been. The clock is maintained by the Bulletin of the Atomic Scientists. Bulletin President Rachel Bronson explains how we use the clock and why we are where we are today. Guest: Rachel Bronson — President/CEO, Bulletin of the Atomic Scientists All this month, we're sharing your Chicago love stories in our newsletter. Email us at [email protected] or call or text us at (773) 780-0246. And you have until noon today to vote for City Cast Chicago as Best Podcast and Best Newsletter in Chicago Reader's Best of 2021 poll! Follow us on Twitter: @CityCastChicago Sign up for our newsletter: chicago.citycast.fm

Last week, we explored the history of disinvestment and displacement at Cabrini-Green, Chicago’s infamous public housing complex on the Near North Side. The city began demolishing the high-rises in the 1990s, and the last one went down in 2011. But former Cabrini-Green residents are still fighting for what the city promised them: a chance to return to their community. Host Jacoby Cochran led a panel with journalists who investigated these broken promises, local historians, and others connected with Cabrini-Green to talk about where the community is now. Guests: Carol Steele — Cabrini-Green resident and public housing advocate Charles Price — Housing activist and former resident liaison at Cabrini-Green Alejandra Cancino — Reporter, “Cabrini-Green: A History of Broken Promises” This panel was put on in partnership with the Better Government Association. You can find the full conversation on their website. Wednesday is the last day to vote City Cast Chicago as Best Podcast and Best Newsletter in Chicago Reader's Best of 2021 poll. Find us under the City Life category. Follow us on Twitter: @CityCastChicago Sign up for our newsletter: chicago.citycast.fm

In Chicago, the city is supposed to clear the streets after it snows. But the sidewalks? That falls on property owners. As one might expect, building and home owners aren’t always great about shoveling a clear walkway for pedestrians. Not shoveling also creates a problem for people with disabilities. The pedestrian advocacy group, Better Streets Chicago, says rather than relying on our neighbors to do it, the city should clear the sidewalks like it does (most) streets. We talk to one of the organizers behind that public push. Plus, you can’t talk snow in Chicago without the perennial debate about dibs. We share your thoughts on the practice of staking claim to a your freshly-shoveled parking space with, well, whatever you have around. Guest: Michael Podgers—Organizer, Better Streets Chicago Plow the Sidewalks Petition Some Good News: DCASE "Year of Chicago Dance" Our episode "Let's Go Chicago Stepping" Wednesday is the last day to vote City Cast Chicago as Best Podcast and Best Newsletter in Chicago Reader's Best of 2021 poll. Find us under the City Life category. Follow us on Twitter: @CityCastChicago Sign up for our newsletter: chicago.citycast.fm

Throughout the school year, Chicago Public Schools have claimed their COVID dashboards provide accurate data for COVID-19 cases district-wide and in individual schools. But the district quietly changed how those numbers were reported. One CPS parent and web engineer noticed that while cases across the district increased as omicron surged in Chicago, cases weren't being assigned to individual schools, making school counts seem lower. While CPS said it made the change in December, parent Jakob Ondrey said he didn't see the data diverge until the day the Chicago Teachers Union voted to move to remote learning. We’ve got Tonia Hill and Matt Harvey from The Triibe joining us to break down this story and more, including: Donda Academy’s unsanctioned basketball showcase, the perils of shoveling snow, and some good news to send you into the weekend! Stories Discussed: Donda Academy Homecoming Did CPS fudge COVID-19 numbers? Flowers for King Louie The sun is setting later We're talking Chi winter customs next week, and that means talking about dibs. How do you feel about it? Do you do it? Do you move people's objects? Call or text us at (773) 780-0246 or email us at [email protected]. And tune in Saturday at 1:30 p.m. for a virtual conversation, moderated by City Cast Chicago host Jacoby Cochran, about the legacy of Cabrini-Green. Follow us on Twitter: @CityCastChicago Sign up for our newsletter: chicago.citycast.fm

For nearly 50 years, thousands of Black Chicagoans called the 23 high-rise towers and adjacent row houses of Cabrini-Green home. Soon after cutting ceremonial ribbons, the public housing development on the Near North Side would become a symbol of the Chicago Housing Authority’s mismanagement, disinvestment, and abandonment. As resources and opportunities disappeared, Cabrini-Green gained an infamous reputation as violent, run-down, and overcrowded. But the community was also on some of the most lucrative land in Chicago — and politicians and developers knew it. Beginning in the early 1990s, city leaders announced plans to tear down the high-rises and row houses for new mixed-income housing, promising thousands of residents they could live in those new homes. That didn’t happen. City Cast Chicago is partnering with the Better Government Association for their investigation “A History of Broken Promises.” WBEZ reporter Natalie Moore and former Cabrini resident and housing activist Willie “J.R.” Fleming lay down the history of the community. At 1:30 p.m. Saturday, Jacoby Cochran will be hosting a virtual conversation about the history of Cabrini Green. Register now. Some good news: Friday is Girls Day of P.L.A.Y at Chicago Parks. Follow us on Twitter: @CityCastChicago Sign up for our newsletter: chicago.citycast.fm

Bulls small forward DeMar DeRozan was a four-time all-star when he was with the Toronto Raptors. But when he came to Chicago this season after a lackluster few years in San Antonio, many fans and analysts were skeptical the 13-year veteran could still bring it. So far, the haters have been proven wrong. DeRozan has played a key role in bringing the Bulls back to life, especially as a leader for an otherwise young team. K.C. Johnson has been following the Bulls for more than three decades, and he explains how DeRozan’s career has made him hungry for success in Chicago. Guest: K.C. Johnson — Bulls Insider, NBC Sports Chicago A little bit of news, y'all: UIC has a new map showing what's causing pollution by schools. The 25th annual Fillet of Solo Festival is being held virtually. Follow us on Twitter: @CityCastChicago Sign up for our newsletter: chicago.citycast.fm

When Ariana Alejandra Gibson was growing up, she didn’t have an outlet for talking about her father who had schizophrenia. A boyfriend’s father even once said that his son couldn’t have children with Gibson because then their children would also have schizophrenia. She felt shamed and stigmatized for her father’s illness and figured others probably did too. So she created the STIGMA app, which allows users to share their personal struggles and stories and even ask for a message of hope. Gibson found sometimes just hearing, “You are not alone,” can help a lot. Gibson is also partnering with BRAVE, which can connect users with mental health professionals. Gibson talks to host Jacoby Cochran about the origin of the app and how a social experiment in her neighborhood helped her decide she needed to create it. Guest: Ariana Alejandra Gibson — Founder, STIGMA App Some Good News: "Gem of the Ocean" at Goodman Theatre Follow us on Twitter: @CityCastChicago Sign up for our newsletter: chicago.citycast.fm

Chicago is the birthplace of many dance styles, like the polka hop, the cha-cha slide, and, of course, stepping. For Black Chicagoans, stepping is a rite of passage: You learn it when you’re young and you have to be ready to hit the moves at family picnics or at the club. Chicago transplant — and City Cast Producer — Simone Alicea wondered how stepping entered the dance vernacular. We talk to Kiana Moore, who comes from a family of stepping legends, and she and her husband, Mack McKinney gives Simone a lesson. Guests: Kiana Moore and Mack McKinney—City Cast Stepping Instructors News: How to get free N95 masks from the government Some Good News: Tentflix and Chill at Lottie's Pub Join Us! Join City Cast, the Better Government Association, and CatchLight Local on Saturday for a conversation about the examination of Cabrini-Green, the taxpayer-financed redevelopment of one of the only Black neighborhoods on the city’s North Side. Jacoby is the host! Get tickets now. Follow us on Twitter: @CityCastChicago Sign up for our newsletter: chicago.citycast.fm

We got a lot of COVID news this week. Some good, like maybe Chicago has passed its Omicron peak. Some decent, like free tests available online. And some very bad, like a massive COVID testing scandal. WTTW correspondent Angel Idowu and Chicago Sun-Times education reporter Nader Issa join host Jacoby Cochran to break down these stories and more. Here's the article Nader mentioned: "Murders of students amid the pandemic strain schools’ ability to cope, heal" Guests: Nader Issa— Education reporter, Chicago Sun-Times Angel Idowu— Arts correspondent, WTTW BGA and City Cast Chicago Present: Navigating the Story of Cabrini-Green: Jan. 29 at 1:30 p.m. hosted by Jacoby Cochran Follow us on Twitter: @CityCastChicago Sign up for our newsletter: chicago.citycast.fm

The A.V. Club was founded as a sister publication of The Onion in 1993 for “people immersed in pop culture and entertainment media to an obsessive degree.” But the Chicago-based online publication is feeling a lot less Chicago after staffers here were told by their parent company, G/O Media, they had to move to LA or lose their jobs. All seven Chicago-based employees have decided to leave the company, saying the company left them little choice in asking them to relocate to a more expensive city without changing their salaries. A.V. Club film editor Alex Dowd, who writes under the byline A.A. Dowd, shares why he’s leaving the company and what he thinks the pop culture site will lose by pulling out of Chicago. Some good news: The Chicago International Puppet Theater Festival begins Thursday. Remember to vote for City Cast Chicago as Best Podcast and Best Newsletter in the Chicago Reader’s “Best of Chicago 2021” poll under the “City Life” category. Follow us on Twitter: @CityCastChicago Sign up for our newsletter: chicago.citycast.fm

Irving Naxon invented the Crock-Pot, originally called the Naxon Beanery, in the 1930s. He got the idea from his Orthodox Jewish mother who tossed ingredients in a pot to cook cholent overnight for Shabbat. Cooking on Shabbat was forbidden, but this method allowed her to still serve a hot meal. The Crock-Pot was sold at big Chicago department stores like Sears and Montgomery Ward, and it was marketed as an efficient and inexpensive way to make dinner, especially for working mothers. We talk to Irving Naxon’s daughter, Lenore, who has become the unofficial historian of the Crock-Pot. If you haven't yet, remember to vote for us as Best Podcast and Best Newsletter in the Chicago Reader's "Best of Chicago 2021" poll under the "City Life" category. Some Good News: Tomorrow Never Knows 2022 starts tonight! Find out more info and get tickets on their website. Follow us on Twitter: @CityCastChicago Sign up for our newsletter: chicago.citycast.fm

Chicago’s proof of vaccine requirement at bars, restaurants, and live music venues has been in effect for two weeks. It’s been a welcome addition for some business, workers and customers, but some say enforcing it has been a headache. Chicago Tribune’s Joel Noel tells us the reaction depends on where you are in Chicago. We also hear from a concert coordinator at City Winery about the various responses to mask and vaccine proof mandates she’s heard from customers during the pandemic. Guests: Josh Noel, reporter for the Chicago Tribune and author of "Barrel-Aged Stout and Selling Out" Jessi Roti, concert coordinator at City Winery Chicago The City Cast Chicago hotline: (773) 780-0246 Follow us on Twitter: @CityCastChicago Sign up for our newsletter: chicago.citycast.fm

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