City Cast Chicago
😫 Is Chicago a city of complainers?
March 18, 2024
What’s the best way to cure a St. Patrick’s Day hangover? Election talk and lots of it! The primary is tomorrow — let’s dive into it ⏳
What's CITY Talking About?
Bears Trade QB Justin Fields
After three seasons, the Bears traded Justin Fields to the Pittsburgh Steelers for a conditional sixth-round pick in 2025 (potentially a fourth-round pick depending on Fields’ performance). Will USC’s Caleb Williams be the team’s franchise quarterback? [CHGO Sports]
Update on Migrant Evictions, Measles
City officials said 35 migrants were expected to leave three city shelters over the weekend, enforcing the 60-day shelter limit. There are some exceptions — including those who are affected by the measles outbreak at the Pilsen shelter. Migrants staying at city shelters will now be required to be vaccinated for measles, mumps, rubella, and chickenpox. [WBEZ]
How Realtors Group Settlement Affects Homebuyers
As part of the Chicago-based National Association of Realtors’ $400 million settlement, real estate agents will have to lower their commissions due to allegations of anti-competitive behavior. Homebuyers could save significantly when they buy or sell. [WGN]
Why Aren’t Chicago Shooting Victims Getting Paid?
Only one in 16 eligible victims of violent crimes in the city are applying to the Illinois Crime Victim Compensation Program. The shortfall comes despite recent legislative changes. [The Trace]
Why is the Inspector General Concerned About 311?
While complaining via 311 may help you get your problem solved, is it really the best way for the city to provide services? A new advisory from the inspector general’s office suggests Chicago could do better. [City Cast Chicago 🎧]
Where Is It?
Last Week’s Winner
Answer: Illinois Institute of Technology. Moid A. was our random winner, but the next round of trivia came from reader Hilda Espinal again!
This Week’s Clues
Which Chicago building does this iconic spiral staircase call home? Guess here and you could pick the next round of trivia.
- Located in the city’s financial district.
- The 11-story building, completed in 1888 by Daniel Burnham and John Root, was once one of the tallest buildings in the world.
- The name of this building comes from birds that roosted nearby and being “rooked” by politicians in the area.
- Frank Lloyd Wright’s luxurious redesign of the interior included adding marble and staircase railings.
What To Do
Monday, March 18
- Shut Up & Write Writing Program ✏️ The Loop | 5:30–7:30 p.m. | Free
- Shedd Park Strategic Plan Town Hall 🌳 Little Village | 6–8 p.m. | Free
Tuesday, March 19
- JP Saxe concert 🎤 House of Blues | 5:30 p.m. | $27+
- Missing Persons Reading Session ❓ Pilsen | 6:30–8 p.m. | Free
Wednesday, March 20
- Celebrate Spring Fest 🌷 River Forest | 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. | Free
- Asian Pop-Up Cinema 🎞️ Lincoln Park, Evanston | Varies | Varies
- New York City Ballet 🩰 The Loop | 7 p.m. | $75
- Danny Brown concert 🎵 Lakeview | 8 p.m. | $28+
Today on City Cast
Chicago operates at a tremendous deficit of legitimacy with its residents, and that is a very, very long arc. For generations, the city has given Chicagoans no reason to trust the operation of government.
How Top Watchdog Thinks Chicago Could Do Better
You’ve heard us say it before: Call 311 if you have a pothole or rats in your alley. But Inspector General Deborah Witzburg shares her findings from a recent advisory on whether the city should find a more proactive way to improve city services.
Where are the primary watch parties at? Hey Chicago readers want to know!
—Sidney Madden
Thanks to editor Simone Alicea!
Free · Daily