Construction on a temporary winterized tent camp for new arrivals began this week in Brighton Park after nearly two months of back-and-forth. But the start was not without confusion and community pushback. Block Club Chicago’s Madison Savedra and Melody Mercado are here with the latest. Plus, we look at an investigation into the Chicago Housing Authority’s vacant properties, a plan to house asylum-seekers at churches, and the Loop’s viral cabbages! . Good News: Chicago AIDS Garden for World Aids...
Dec 01, 2023•34 min•Transcript available on Metacast Geoffrey Baer has been showing off Chicago’s architecture and natural beauty for decades, first as a docent for the Chicago Architecture Center, then as a WTTW host. On Monday, Baer is out with part two of his series “The Most Beautiful Places in Chicago.” He talked with host Jacoby Cochran when part one came out earlier this spring about what makes a place beautiful to him and which spots Chicagoans should check out. Good News: 3rd Annual Music Festival & Youth Pitch Competition Want some more ...
Nov 30, 2023•18 min•Transcript available on Metacast Whether it’s a friend’s party, a family gathering, or a work potluck, there’s no way you’re cooking for all of your holiday festivities. That’s where Chicago restaurants come in. Executive producer Simone Alicea, producer Michelle Navarro, newsletter editor Sidney Madden, and host Jacoby Cochran designed their best potluck menus. Using just restaurants in their area, each person picked an appetizer, entree, side, and dessert. Who do YOU think had the best menu? You can text us or leave a voicema...
Nov 29, 2023•41 min•Transcript available on Metacast The federal corruption trial of former Ald. Ed Burke is now in its fourth week. Multiple delays have slowed down the timeline but the judge is still hopeful the trial will wrap by Christmas. Executive producer Simone Alicea and host Jacoby Cochran discuss the latest updates out of the courthouse. Plus, Illinois’ 2024 election season is officially underway as hopeful candidates for local, state, congressional and judicial races began filing their petitions Monday. What holiday pop-ups are you exc...
Nov 28, 2023•22 min•Transcript available on Metacast What happens when a person goes missing in Chicago? Trina Reynolds-Tyler with Invisible Institute and Sarah Conway with City Bureau are here to discuss “Missing in Chicago,” their two-year investigation into how Chicago police handle missing person cases. They highlight inadequate police data, testimonials from families who felt mistreated or dismissed by police, and a disproportionate impact on Black women and girls. Make sure you also check out their resources list and rights guide. Good News:...
Nov 27, 2023•32 min•Transcript available on Metacast Many of us may have out-of-town visitors this week for the Thanksgiving holiday. And what better way to say “I’m thankful for you” than with the city’s favorite drink-slash-prank: Malört. Whether you actually like the bitter liquor or you just want to see your friends make a weird face, it’s become one of Chicago’s best inside jokes. Host Jacoby Cochran tried it for the first time this summer. We did a taste test and round of Malört trivia with executive producer Simone Alicea, marketing directo...
Nov 22, 2023•23 min•Transcript available on Metacast Service on the Yellow Line from Howard to Skokie/Dempster was still suspended Monday after a train crashed into a city snowplow late last week, injuring nearly 40 riders. Investigators from the the National Transportation Safety Board are in town piecing together what happened. Executive producer Simone Alicea and host Jacoby Cochran are breaking down the latest findings. Plus, we discuss Mayor Brandon Johnson’s 60 day limit at the city’s temporary migrant shelters and some quick holiday travel ...
Nov 21, 2023•22 min•Transcript available on Metacast Most of Illinois’ 16 juvenile detention centers fail to meet minimum compliance standards, according to recent reports from the Illinois Department of Juvenile Justice. The audits show the facilities are overusing confinement and failing to provide adequate resources, including education, mental health services, and even proper clothing or bedding. Injustice Watch’s Kelly Garcia looked over the reports and tells host Jacoby Cochran what’s driving the problems, why transparency issues persist, an...
Nov 20, 2023•18 min•Transcript available on Metacast After a three month search, Mayor Brandon Johnson has hired Dr. Olusimbo Ige to lead Chicago’s Public Health Department. This is one of Johnson’s biggest hirings, especially following the ousting of the former top doc. Crain’s Katherine Davis and City Bureau’s India Daniels are here to discuss why this move is so critical. Plus, the city’s $16 billion dollar budget was approved, Howard Brown health workers strike again, and there are plenty of opportunities to see Chicagoland’s holiday lights. C...
Nov 17, 2023•30 min•Transcript available on Metacast If you’ve been on a CTA train or bus in the last 25 years you have heard the same voice announcing every single stop, what side the doors open on, and what to do if your Ventra card is expiring soon. Host Jacoby Cochran talks to Lee Crooks, the actor behind the voice, about what it’s like to help move millions of Chicagoans and visitors each year. Plus, Jacoby tests how much the voice of CTA really knows about the CTA. Some Good News: Grown Folks Stories and Karaoke Storytellers at The Promontor...
Nov 16, 2023•17 min•Transcript available on Metacast The name Chicago is believed to originate from Indigenous words describing a type of wild onion now known as “ramps.” They grew so much in the area that the onion — and its smell — ended up defining the city’s name. Host Jacoby Cochran talks to Chicago Tribune food critic Louisa Chu to understand how onions play a role in Chicago restaurants and kitchens today. Want some more City Cast Chicago news? Then make sure to sign up for our Hey Chicago newsletter. Follow us @citycastchicago You can also...
Nov 15, 2023•17 min•Transcript available on Metacast City Council is slated to vote this week on the budget. One detail concerning Mayor Brandon Johnson’s supporters is the money included for the controversial gunshot-detection technology ShotSpotter, whose contract Johnson pledged on the campaign trail to end. Executive producer Simone Alicea and host Jacoby Cochran ask: Are we getting mixed signals from City Hall? Plus, we’re discussing potential name changes for Chicagoland birds and great Thanksgiving meal deals. The birds we mentioned: Cooper...
Nov 14, 2023•25 min•Transcript available on Metacast Chicago is home to the country’s third-largest urban Native American population. But do you know why? Andrew Johnson says that’s just one of many lessons Illinois students might learn as the result of new Native American history requirements going into effect next year. Johnson is executive director of the Native American Chamber of Commerce of Illinois, one of many groups that pushed for the new curriculum. He tells us why it is so critical students are given a comprehensive picture of indigeno...
Nov 13, 2023•20 min•Transcript available on Metacast It was a very busy week in City Council. Between a rare censure vote, advancing the “Bring Chicago Home'' referendum, and finalizing a Far South Side winterized migrant shelter location, there were plenty of debates, distractions, and deals. Host Jacoby Cochran sits down with The Daily Line’s Erin Hegarty and Axios Chicago’s Justin Kaufmann to make sense of it all. Plus, we are talking about next week’s budget vote, Chi Christmas trees, and the Cubs spending $40 million on a new manager. Want so...
Nov 10, 2023•35 min•Transcript available on Metacast While you’re picking up your next cozy read at your local library, don’t forget all the other things your library card can get you: passes to city attractions, seeds for starting a garden, and more. To remind you, we’re revisiting a conversation we had earlier this summer with Patrick Molloy, government and public affairs director for the Chicago Public Library, and Manning branch manager Alejandra Santana. Some Good News: “What Time Is It?” opens Friday at Chicago Art Department in Pilsen. Want...
Nov 09, 2023•22 min•Transcript available on Metacast From the Cubs vs. White Sox to deep-dish vs. tavern-style, Chicago is no stranger to rivalries. One rivalry host Jacoby Cochran knows well is the fried-chicken-and-mild-sauce competition between Harold’s and Uncle Remus. As a South Sider, Jacoby had never even been to Uncle Remus in the Austin neighborhood. Now, Justice Informed CEO, lifelong West Sider, and Uncle Remus evangelist Xavier Ramey shows Jacoby what he’s been missing. Don’t miss our love letter to Harold’s. Some good news: Catch the ...
Nov 08, 2023•19 min•Transcript available on Metacast A new University of Illinois Chicago report has named Chicago the country’s most corrupt city for the fourth year in a row. Lead producer Simone Alicea, host Jacoby Cochran, and producer Michelle Navarro dive into the study and ask if the title is still deserved. We are also discussing some of the fanciest meals we’ve had in the city and our favorite tourist attractions. We want to know your favorite meals and tourist spots! Text us or leave a voicemail at: 773 780-0246 Plus, nominate City Cast ...
Nov 07, 2023•24 min•Transcript available on Metacast The political corruption trial of former 14th Ward Ald. Ed Burke begins today. Burke spent more than 50 years in office, making him Chicago’s longest-serving alder before he opted not to run in this year’s election. WTTW’s Heather Cherone and host Jacoby Cochran break down Burke’s long and controversial career along with the trial that could ultimately define his legacy. Some good news: The 28th Annual Asian American Jazz fest Nominate City Cast Chicago as Best Podcast and Hey Chicago as Best Ne...
Nov 06, 2023•25 min•Transcript available on Metacast Mayor Brandon Johnson traveled to Washington, D.C. this week with other big city mayors asking for more federal aid to help the tens of thousands of largely Venezuelan migrants who have arrived in the last year. Crain’s Leigh Giangreco and Block Club Chicago’s Atavia Reed join us to talk about the latest efforts to secure funding. Plus, we discuss ongoing concerns with neighborhood Save-A-Lots, a Walgreen’s closure in Roseland, and the beginning of Christmas music season. Some good news: Black H...
Nov 03, 2023•31 min•Transcript available on Metacast We are halfway through our fall season and before wintertime Chi hits, we are revisiting journalist and naturalist Zack Nauth’s list from last year of 20 midwest hiking trails to visit. Host Jacoby Cochran talked with Nauth about his top picks, from best views to most accessible. Places discussed: Cap Sauers Holding Nature Preserve Sag Valley Trail System Swallow Cliff Woods Lakewood Forest Preserves Big Marsh Franklin Creek State Natural Area Nachusa Grasslands Salt Creek Woods Nature Preserve ...
Nov 02, 2023•17 min•Transcript available on Metacast Chicago has no shortage of award-winning fine dining restaurants. Elaborate tasting menus, molecular gastronomy, and artistic small bites that are so expensive you wonder: Is this all worth it? Lifestyle journalist Ari Bendersky, who writes the Something Glorious Newsletter, says yes. He tells host Jacoby Cochran that Chicago’s scene is more expansive and creative than ever. Plus, he's got tips for Chicago’s fine dining beginners. Some good news: The Chicago International Children’s Film Festiva...
Nov 01, 2023•21 min•Transcript available on Metacast Last month the American Red Cross announced a national blood shortage as supplies had dropped by 25% since August. But what exactly is a blood shortage and who is impacted the most when there isn’t adequate supply to go around? Host Jacoby Cochran stopped by the University of Chicago Blood Donation Center to get these questions answered and donate blood. Want some more City Cast Chicago news? Then make sure to sign up for our Hey Chicago newsletter. Take Hey Chicago’s Best Chicago Candies Poll F...
Oct 31, 2023•16 min•Transcript available on Metacast A new investigation from WBEZ and the Sun-Times found almost 30 Chicago police officers — including nine still in the department — have been on rosters for anti-government extremist group Oath Keepers. Now the department is reopening a new investigation as city leaders call for extremists to be “rooted out.” Reporters Tom Schuba and Dan Mihalopoulos join host Jacoby Cochran to break down what they found. Nominate City Cast Chicago as Best Podcast and Hey Chicago as Best Newsletter under the "Cit...
Oct 30, 2023•27 min•Transcript available on Metacast The first half of the General Assembly's veto session wrapped up Thursday, and there are three days left beginning Nov. 7. Will lawmakers make any progress on Chicago's elected school board map, and will future board members be paid? We are joined by Chalkbeat Chicago’s Samantha Smylie and Crain’s Corli Jay with the latest. Plus, we are discussing CPS’ struggles to help new migrant students, the latest suburb to pitch for a Bears’ stadium, student-led neighborhood audio tours, and the Chicago Sk...
Oct 27, 2023•31 min•Transcript available on Metacast Haunted hotels, disappearing hitch hikers, and headless horsemen: These are just a few of Chicago’s spookiest ghost stories. But what’s the difference between a scary story and a historical tragedy? Mysterious Chicago’s Adam Selzer tells host Jacoby Cochran that it’s all about how you tell the story. Some Good News: 312 Comedy Festival Want some more City Cast Chicago news? Then make sure to sign up for our Hey Chicago newsletter. Follow us @citycastchicago You can also text us or leave a voicem...
Oct 26, 2023•17 min•Transcript available on Metacast Illinois is the country’s largest producer of pumpkins and home to the canned pumpkin brand that made pumpkin pie a household staple. Does that make pumpkin spice more than just a trend in Chicago? Host Jacoby Cochran and lead producer Simone Alicea review some pumpkin spice offerings and learn some pumpkin facts. Check out some local fall flavors and pumpkin spice offerings. Want some more City Cast Chicago news? Then make sure to sign up for our Hey Chicago newsletter. Follow us @citycastchica...
Oct 25, 2023•22 min•Transcript available on Metacast Budget season continues at City Hall with three days of hearings set to talk about public safety and police this week. Host Jacoby Cochran and lead producer Simone Alicea review some of the proposed changes to CPD’s nearly $2 billion budget. Plus, we are discussing Chicago’s classic candies and your favorite City Cast episodes. Chicago Halloweek 2023 Schedule! Chicago Reader’s “Best of 2023” Nominations Open Now: Nominate City Cast Chicago for Best Podcast and Hey Chicago for Best Email Newslett...
Oct 24, 2023•22 min•Transcript available on Metacast The General Assembly’s six-day veto session kicks off Tuesday in Springfield. This is the time when lawmakers will discuss laws vetoed by the governor and other pressing issues that need to be addressed before January. Despite calls from Chicago leaders and residents, additional funding to help migrants is likely not on the agenda. But WTTW’s Amanda Vinicky tells host Jacoby Cochran that issues around guns, unionization, and the state’s biometric privacy law could come up. Some good news: 2023 T...
Oct 23, 2023•17 min•Transcript available on Metacast As the city decides on the locations of proposed “winterized base camps” for newly-arrived migrants, communities continue to protest plans in their neighborhoods. One St. Louis organization is suggesting bringing asylum-seekers there. To break down the details, we are joined by freelance journalist Crystal Paul and Northwestern professor and author Arionne Nettles. We are also looking at Cook County jail’s dropping population, the Chicago Department of Public Health’s decreased budget, and the d...
Oct 20, 2023•36 min•Transcript available on Metacast Halloween is less than two weeks away, and Chicago has plenty of opportunities to celebrate. From pumpkin carvings, to costume parties, to the classic trick-or-treating, you’d have to try hard not to find something to do on All Hallows' Eve. Host Jacoby Cochran breaks down the best activities this year with Jenny LeFlore, aka Mama Fresh. They discuss what makes the perfect spooky itinerary and the events they’re most excited to go to. Plus, the best Chicago-themed costumes you can try. Arts in t...
Oct 19, 2023•21 min•Transcript available on Metacast 
