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City Cast Chicago

City Cast Chicago

‼️ Putting Chicago’s slumlords on blast

September 11, 2026 · — Michelle Navarro

Join us for Printers Row Lit Fest tomorrow at 3 p.m., where our host Jacoby Cochran will speak with James Beard Award-winning Michael Gebert, author of “The Chicago Way: An Oral History of Chicago Dining.”

Don’t miss out on the best weekend in Chicago’s literary scene with tons of booksellers, discussions, readings, and programming for everyone. And it's completely free, on South Dearborn, from Ida B Wells to Polk Street.

Now on to news and your weekly news quiz!

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What's CITY Talking About

A large group of mostly women in sunglasses hold a sign that says "STOP AMTRAK!"
Chicagoans protesting against Amtrak moving a maintenance facility into their neighborhood. (Eileen T. Meslar/Chicago Tribune/Tribune News Service via Getty Images)

Sox & Amtrak Big Potential Move. Plus, Bears’ Opener

White Sox minority owner Justin Ishbia released stadium renderings, confirming the team is considering a move to the South Loop and assisting Amtrak’s proposed facility relocation and expansion to Bridgeport. On today’s podcast, we break down the details, including how neighborhood groups, local officials, and fans are feeling about it. Plus, we lay out our biggest concerns heading into the Bears' season opener, and talk traffic preparation for Mexican Independence Day celebrations. [City Cast Chicago 🎧]

Are Democratic Socialists Losing Ground in Chicago?

After New York elected Mayor Zohran Mamdani, members of the Democratic Socialists of America are hoping for success in Chicago. But internal clashes locally may get in the way. Chicago DSA endorsed six City Council candidates running in the Feb. 23 election, leaving out two formerly endorsed alders. [Block Club]

Could a Landlord Registry Stop Slumlords?

A landlord with nearly 70 neglected properties in Chinatown and Bridgeport repeatedly borrowed money against his properties. Now they could be resold to new owners, leaving current residents and business owners worried about higher rents and displacement. Advocates believe a landlord registry could help identify bad landlords. [Illinois Answers Project]

The Rage Room Started in Chicago

Rage rooms seem to be an ongoing trend, but did you know that the first appeared in a Chicago motel? In 1962, the Frustration Room laid out lamps, plates, and other household objects to throw against the wall. [WBEZ]

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Your Chicago News Quiz

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Harold Washington Library Center is on the list of Open House Chicago sites. (Carol M. Highsmith/Buyenlarge/Getty Images)

I know, a lot happens in a city like Chicago. Luckily, you have us to keep you up to date. But were you paying attention? Prove your loyalty (and news literacy) to us.

What To Do

Friday, Sep. 11

Saturday, Sep. 12

Sunday, Sep. 13

I give everyone permission to at least be a little Mexican this weekend. Be kind, be hospitable, spend money at small Mexican-owned businesses, and please protect one another.

Free · Daily

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