City Cast Chicago
The lives of migrants in Chicago
December 20, 2023
You know what warms my heart? Messages from you. Some of my favorite notes this year have been hearing how this newsletter helps you get reacquainted with the city, deep-dish recipes you think we should try, and your musings on “Cocaine Bear.” Thanks, and keep them coming!
What's CITY Talking About?
Jurors Deliberate in Ed Burke Trial
A couple of days into deliberations in the federal corruption case of the city’s longest-serving alder, jurors asked Tuesday for clarification about a count against a co-defendant. [Tribune 🔒]
- Here’s how Burke got to this point. [City Cast Chicago 🎧]
Remembering Chicago Sculptor Richard Hunt
The 88-year-old South Side sculptor died over the weekend. Some of his most famous works included his “Hero Construction” sculpture at the Art Institute, “The Light of Truth” monument in Bronzeville, and “Hero Ascending” which will soon be at the Emmett Till Monument site. [ABC7]
City Snowplow Name Contest Returns
Chicagoans can submit names for Department of Streets and Sanitation snowplows through Jan. 12. “Da Plow” and “Salter Payton” were among last year’s winners. [Block Club]
Christkindlmarket Mugs Sold Out
The downtown and Aurora–themed mugs are sold out as attendance at the German-style markets has soared this season. Instead, patrons can buy last year’s mug. [NBC Chicago]
- The sold-out 2023 mug is in the finals of our Christkindlmarket mug bracket. Will it win? You decide! [City Cast Chicago 🎧]
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What To Do
Wednesday, Dec. 20
- Winter Solstice Sunrise Concerts Start 🌅 Lakeview | 6 a.m. | $37
- Yoga 🧘 Uptown | 5–6 p.m. | Free
- “Solo: A Show About Friendship” Opens 🎤 Wicker Park | 8 p.m. | $41
Thursday, Dec. 21
- Winter Solstice Potluck ❄️ South Holland | 2–4 p.m. | Free
- Skate Meetup 🛼 Garfield Park | 5:30–8 p.m. | Free
- Skip the Small Talk 💬 Logan Square | 7:30–9:30 p.m. | $15
Friday, Dec. 22
- Holiday Basketball Tournament 🏀 Douglas | 1–6 p.m. | Free
- “Home Alone” 🏠 Joliet | 6 p.m. | $5
- “A Mariachi Christmas” Opens 🎶 Lincoln Square | 7 p.m. | $40
- Winter Wonderland 🎄 | Austin | 7–8 p.m. | $15
- Winter Solstice Evening Concert 🌇 Lakeview | 8 p.m. | $25
- Christmas Comedy Show & Toy Drive 🤣 West Ridge | 8 p.m. | $10
Today on City Cast
This Year in Chicago Restaurants
Whether it’s a new spot, an iconic tasting menu, or a neighborhood gem, 2023 was a big year for local foodies like City Cast Chicago podcast host Jacoby Cochran. The Infatuation’s Adrian Kane and John Ringor join us in discussing Chicago’s best new restaurants, fav dishes, and what to watch for next year.
My personal count is like 370 unique restaurant visits this year.
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—Sidney Madden
Thanks to editor Simone Alicea!
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