City Cast Chicago
💸 How to get the biggest tax refund
February 26, 2024
How can the CTA be more joyful? UIC students are surveying riders to figure out how to improve the city’s buses and trains. They plan to present their findings to CTA officials. Take the survey in English, Spanish, or Mandarin.
What's CITY Talking About?
Judge Invalidates 'Bring Chicago Home' Referendum
A judge ruled Friday that the measure on the March primary ballot to increase the real estate transfer tax to combat homelessness is invalid. [WBEZ/Sun-Times]
Building by Puerto Rican Museum to be Demolished
After years of calls to remove the unsanctioned building, the controversial structure is set to be demolished Wednesday. It was meant to be an addition to the Humboldt Park museum. [Block Club]
Will You See CTA Prez This Week?
Since City Council passed an ordinance requiring quarterly hearings with CTA leadership, president Dorval Carter is expected to appear before alders Tuesday. Plus, rider advocates are expected to be there. [WBEZ’s Claudia Morell; Streetsblog Chicago]
- How much does Carter make? [City Cast Chicago 🎧]
Why Care About Down Ballot Races
Chicagoans might be familiar with the president’s race and high-profile congressional campaigns, but don’t forget about other offices on the ballot like the Cook County Circuit Court Clerk, Cook County Board of Review, and committeepeople. [City Cast Chicago 🎧]
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Where Is It?
Last Week’s Winner
Answer: “The Geographic Center of Chicago” sign is at 37th and Honore streets. Congrats to everyone who got it right! The next round of trivia comes from Dana P.
This Week’s Clues
What is the name of this Near North Side museum? Guess here for a chance to pick the next Hey Chicago trivia!
- Formerly known as the Nickerson Mansion, this building was built in the late 19th century after the owners’ former residence burned in the Great Chicago Fire.
- Dubbed the “Marble Palace,” this home hosted a masquerade and a private reception during the World’s Fair of 1893.
- In 1919, more than 100 Chicagoans bought the residence and donated it to the American College of Surgeons. It became their HQ.
- A prominent Chicago philanthropist acquired the building in 2003 and opened it as a museum to the public in 2008.
What To Do
Monday, Feb. 26
- ChatGPT: A Tool for Thought 💬 Kenwood | 5:30–6:30 p.m. | Free
- Moonlight Meditation 🧘 Norwood Park | 7–8:30 p.m. | Donation suggested
Tuesday, Feb. 27
- Photography Workshop 📸 Pilsen | 4–6 p.m. | Free
- Winter Greens Potluck 🥬 Lincoln Square | 6:30–8:30 p.m. | $20
Wednesday, Feb. 28
- Richard Hunt Documentary 🎥 West Loop | 7 p.m. | Pay what you can
Today on City Cast
Your Guide to Down Ballot Races
Illinois Answers Project reporter Alex Nitkin discusses some of the lesser-known races on your ballot for clerk, commissioner, and committeeperson.
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New Member Shoutout
Ken Herlache joined our membership program at the Cousins level. Here’s what Ken loves the most about our city:
"I love Chicago’s distinct districts and character. The city itself holds personality and gravitas, from the well-trimmed Streeterville to the sharp edges of The Loop to the cobbled charm of River North. Exploring the city is like having a conversation with a wise old friend."
Learn how to get your own shoutout here.
I gotta shout out my former classmate Rosalba Valdez for her song “Home is Burning” for NPR’s Tiny Desk contest. She wrote it after last year’s Canadian wildfires affected air quality in Chicago.
—Sidney Madden
Thanks to editor Simone Alicea!
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