Oh, Malort!

Alyssa tells  Morgan Stringer about Abraham the first Black Secret Service Agent to serve in the White House.  Related topics include: the JFK assassination, possible weaponization of the government, people being sent to facilities with possibly no release date. Additionally, we're gonna discuss some recurring characters from the Fred Hampton trial.Subscribe, leave a five-star review, and tell all your friends. Socials:Twitter, BlueSky, Instagram Show Notes:New York Times: Edward Hanrahan, Prosecutor Tied to '69 Panthers Raid, Dies at 88Wednesday Journal: Hanrahan's life transcended '69 Panther raidChicago Sun-Times: First White House Black Secret Service agent still trying to clear his nameChicago Sun-Times: It's long past time to finally clear first White House Black Secret Service agent's nameThe Echo from Dealey Plaza: The true story of the first African American on the White House Secret Service detail and his quest for justice after the assassination of JFKAbraham Bolden, 1st Af.-Am. Secret Service agent, conveys the truth. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Alyssa tells Ken Guy the history of breweries in Chicago.   Subscribe, leave a five-star review, and tell all your friends.  Socials: Twitter, BlueSky, Instagram Episodes mentioned:  Block 37 1855 Lager Beer Riots. Show Notes:  Serious Eats: A Brief History of Beer in Chicago Provi: Chicago Beer History: A Timeline The New Chicagoan: History: Old Style is Not Chicago's Beer and Other Chicago Beer Factoids  University of Chicago: Beer in Chicago Chicago Public Library:Beer, 1900-2014: Technology That Changed Chicago Chicago Public Library: Beer, 1855-1900: Technology That Changed Chicago Chicago History Museum: Enjoy a Cold One Forgotten Chicago: Bygone Breweries WTTW: Almost a Century Later, a Classic Chicago Beer Makes Its Triumphant Return Chicago Public Library: Beer, 1830-1855: Technology That Changed Chicago Beer and Brewing: The Oxford Companion to Beer definition of Chicago, Chicago Tribune: A history of Chicago's beer scene: How the Windy City came into its own All About Beer: Beer: A History of Brewing in Chicago Chicagology: Chicago Breweries Chicago Detours: Chicago Craft Beer History Encyclopedia of Chicago: Breweries Chicago Magazine: Old Style: The Chicago Beer That Isn't Chicago Humanities Festival: Beer History with the Brewseum Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode Alyssa tells Pat about James Caesar Petrillo. He has a bandshell named after him in Grant Park but what do we really know about the man?  Answer, he is an idiot.  Listen to learn all the ways this becomes evident.   We also talk about tube socks and Van Halen. Subscribe, leave a five-star review, and tell all your friends.  Socials: Twitter, BlueSky, Instagram Show Notes:  Lea Act New York Times: THE PETRILLO LAW DECISION New York Times: JAMES PETRILLO DEAD; LED MUSICIANS James C. Petrillo: America's Music Czar Lancaster Eagle Gazette:Remember When: James C. Petrillo changes American music AFM Local 802: Another Take on James Petrillo Was he actually a champion of all musicians? AFM Local 802: The Silence Was Deafening What happens when musicians strike the record labels World Radio History WTTW: James C. Petrillo Van Halen: Right Now Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Alyssa tells David Baxter the real life story behind the musical Chicago.   Subscribe, leave a five-star review, and tell all your friends.  Socials: Twitter, BlueSky, Instagram Check out Other Episodes: Grease: The OG Broadway Transfer William Hale "Big Bill" Thompson: Illinois Most Corrupt Politician Show Notes: Chicago Tribune: Silent 1927 'Chicago' to make a musical comeback Chicagology: Maurine Dallas Watkins Chicago Tribune: A Tribune reporter wrote the hit play ‘Chicago' after covering Cook County murder trials. Decades later, we owe her an obituary. Chicago Tribune: Vintage Chicago Tribune: Murder, mayhem and ‘all that jazz' — the real women who inspired Oscar winner ‘Chicago' Today: Obscure story by 'Chicago' playwright discovered Stratford Festival Reviews:The Woman Behind the Women of Chicago Ontario Stage: Maurine Watkins, The Woman Behind ‘Chicago' New York Theatre Guide: The history behind the musical ‘Chicago': How 1920s crime and vaudeville inspired the show Chicago Tribune: Vintage Chicago Tribune: ‘Prettiest woman ever accused of murder in Chicago The Script Catherine Sheehy on Maurine Dallas Watkins - Mondays at Beinecke, February 21, 2022 Playbill: After 80 Years, So Help Me God! Makes Manhattan Bow Chicago Magazine: The Girls of Murder City, by Douglas Perry Mexican Breakfast Toni Collette sings "Roxie" in Chicago audition He Had It Coming: Four Murderous Women and the Reporter Who Immortalized Their Stories Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

After they reminisce about workplace email hijinks, Alyssa gives John an update on the Mike Madigan trial, the closing of the Hard Rock Cafe, and the takeover of the Kennedy Center then they take a trip to Zion, Illinois which was founded as a theocracy.  Subscribe, leave a five-star review, and tell all your friends.  Socials: Twitter, BlueSky, Instagram   Show Notes: AP: The Earth is Flat Cracked: 1920s Illinois Lived In Fear Of The Priest-King Of The Flat Earth New York Times: SURE EARTH IS FLAT, SAYS ZION'S OVERSEER; Voliva Declares He Can 'Down Any Modern Astronomer in Less Than Thirty Minutes.' Daily Beast: When a Flat Earther Refused to Concede and All Hell Broke Loose Chicago Reader: When Zion Ruled the Waves Chicago Reader: The Devil Inside People of Zion Only. Off the Edge: Flat Earthers, Conspiracy Culture, and Why People Will Believe Anything Reshaping Performance Spaces: Embracing Change at the Kennedy Center The Reach Expansion (Kennedy Center) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Alyssa tells Pat all about the time Oak Park, a Chicago suburb, was torn apart after discovering an ACTUAL Nazi was a part of their community.  Subscribe, leave a five-star review, and tell all your friends.  Socials: Twitter, BlueSky, Instagram  Check out Other Episodes: It's Okay to Punch a Nazi Fascism Frenzy KKK in Chikago: It's a Okay to Dox a Racist Show Notes: Chicago Magazine: The Nazi of Oak Park Chicago Magazine: The Nazi Hunter Chicago Tribune: REMEMBERING NAZI CAMPS Chicago Tribune: Author discusses Oak Park's Nazi at Holocaust Museum in Skokie Chicago Tribune: GERMANS WON`T CHARGE EX-SS GUARD, OFFICIALS SAY Los Angeles Times: The World : W. Germans Free Ex-Nazi UPI: A former Nazi death camp guard has been removed... UPI: A man accused of concealing his past as a.Nazi Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Alyssa is joined by Risen to tell her the history of St. Patrick' Day celebrations in Chicago.  Socials: Twitter, BlueSky, Instagram Show Notes: WTTW: Labor of Love: A St. Patrick's Day Special Chicago Tribune: Vintage Chicago Tribune: The city's St. Patrick's Day traditions Smithsonian: The Origins of Chicago's Green River, Shamrock Shakes and Other Surprising Trivia About St. Patrick's Day TimeOut: 10 things you might not have known about St. Patrick's Day in Chicago Chicago Tribune: Politics and parades: Chicago's long history of celebrating St. Patrick's Day Block Club Chicago: Why Chicago Has 4 St. Patrick's Day Parades Time: The Year They Cancelled St. Patrick's Day NBC Chicago: South Side Irish Parade Cancelled NBC Chicago: Parade Organizer: “There's No Reason to Drink Like That” Chicago Tribune: WHY SOUTH SIDERS SAID: PARTY'S OVER Reddit: Can anyone tell me about the Southside Irish parade, is it worth making time to see if you happen to be in Chicago during that time? Media Burn: St. Patrick's Day in Chicago Barstool: The Annual Chicago St Patrick's Day Police Blotter Recap Barstool: The Best Police Blotter Incidents From Wrigleyville On Saturday Barstool: A Barstool Chicago Tradition Unlike Any Other: The Annual St. Patrick's Day Police Blotter Round Up Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Alyssa tells Vannesa from Reel Relationships about Chicago's crazy and chaotic relationship with Daylight Saving Time.   We also dispel a few widely believed myths on the subject.   SHOW NOTES: Country Living: The History of Daylight Saving Time—and 11 Weird Facts to Know About It The History Channel: 8 Things You May Not Know About Daylight Saving Time Washington Post: Why people hated permanent daylight saving time when the U.S. last tried it Chicago Tribune: Daylight saving time 2023: Why it began, where it exists and how it saved one Chicago man's life NPR Illinois: The clock keeps running out on Illinois efforts to end time changes DOT: Uniform Time DOT: Daylight Saving Time DOT: History of Time Zones and Daylight Saving Time (DST) Buzzfeed: Everyone Was Surprised By The Senate Passing Permanent Daylight Saving Time. Especially The Senators Trump Washington Post: I have settled the endless daylight saving time debate Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode, Alyssa and Scoot talk about how fascism became a bit of a fad in the 1930's. Show Notes: WTTW: The American Nazi-Sympathizing Group That Drew Tens of Thousands of Members Before World War II WTTW: Fascism in Chicago Chicago Reader: In 1939 Nazis rallied in Chicago to make Germany great again NYU: Home-Grown Nazis- John C. Metcalfe and James J. Metcalfe - Chicago Daily Times Time: CONGRESS: Hitler's Shadow Chicago Sun-Times: Fighting fascism is in our bones Bund Camp opens Time: The Press: Chicago Thorn The History Reader: Who Was Fritz Kuhn and the German American Bund? Chicago History Reader: 6 Things You May Not Have Known About Nazis in America Politico: When Nazis Filled Madison Square Garden Notre Dame Magazine: Where Their Loyalties Lie NPR: Nazi Summer Camps In 1930s America? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

 Alyssa tells Molly McAleer about the STILL ONGOING Jussie Smollett saga.   Show Notes: Northwestern: Breaking Down Kim Foxx's Win in the 2020 Primary Ballotpedia: Kim Foxx WTTW: Former Top Cop Was Drunk When Officers Allowed Him to Drive Home: Watchdog Chicago Tribune: Ex-FOP leader, suspecting politics at play, gets 3-year suspension from Chicago police union for use of camera in rival's office WTTW: Federal Judge Refuses to Toss Out Chicago's Lawsuit ... Fox Nation: After the Hoax Axelrod Tweet Fox Nation: Anatomy of a Hoax. MAX: Chicago VS Jussie Smollet Courthouse News: Federal judge sides with former Jussie Smollett attorney in long-simmering defamation case ABC 7: Jussie Smollett update: Illinois Supreme Court overturns former 'Empire' actor's conviction Fox 32: Jussie Smollett conviction reversed by Illinois Supreme Court ABC 7: Police called to Kim Foxx's Flossmoor home for domestic incident, report shows Chicago Tribune: Ex-girlfriend of suspended Fox 32 anchor Rafer Weigel facing revenge porn charges asks for protective order from Valparaiso woman be dismissed Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week Alyssa dropped everything to tell John all about the verdict and the subsequent reactions. It truly is Shakespearean.  We also have some hot takes on opportunities for Blago.    SHOW NOTE:  Chicago Tribune: ‘Wow, we were part of something really big': Madigan jurors on how they reached their verdict WTTW: Michael Madigan Found Guilty of Bribery Conspiracy, Other Charges as Jury Deadlocked on Racketeering DOJ: Former Illinois Speaker of the House Michael J. Madigan Convicted on Federal Conspiracy and Bribery Charges Chicago Sun-Times: Inside the Madigan jury room: 'Pronouncing someone guilty didn't make me feel good' Chicago Sun-Times: Once a political giant, Madigan now a convicted felon and likely prison inmate — but not a racketeer Chicago Sun-Times: Once a political giant, Madigan now a convicted felon and likely prison inmate — but not a racketeer Chicago Tribune: Madigan case showcases pitfalls of Illinois political culture Chicago Tribune: Ex-Speaker Michael Madigan's state pension suspended following conviction Chicago Tribune: David Greising: Michael Madigan and Rod Blagojevich were products of a culture that tolerates lawlessness Capitol Fax: Madigan/McClain verdict react (Updated) Vox: Trump's petty revenge on the arts Fox 32: Richard Mell breaks silence on Rod Blagojevich's pardon, family feud: 'All in the past' Axios: Scoop: Trump planning to pardon Rod Blagojevich Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this informal episode, Alyssa updates John on the Madigan trial. We also talk about Burke, Blago, and Trump's vision for a Golden Age in Arts and Culture. SHOW NOTES: Chicago Tribune: A disappearing witness, an odd choice of hold music and the Fighting Irish: 5 strange things you might not know about the Madigan trial Chicago Sun-Times: USA v. Michael Madigan Chicago Tribune: On 8th day of deliberations, Madigan jury gets deep in the legal weeds but returns no verdict ABC 7: Madigan Trial Live Updates WTTW: Michael Madigan Defense Rests its Case as Landmark Corruption Trial Winds Toward an End FOX 32: Michael Madigan trial: A timeline of events leading to jury deliberations Capital Illinois News: In contentious cross-examination, prosecutor accuses Madigan of not telling ‘the whole truth' WTTW: Michael Madigan Chicago Tribune: Fallout from Supreme Court ruling just beginning in Michael Madigan racketeering case NPR: Trump plans to become chair of the Kennedy Center. Here are 3 things to know Chicago Tribune: Rep. Rush's son is charged with official misconduct Chicago Tribune: Bobby Rush's son gets 6-month term Chicagoist: Congressman's Son Fired for Sexual Misconduct Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode Alyssa tells Ben Panko about a guy found crucified in Chicago which led her into the crazy story about a guy named Dr. Emil Bronner.  It is a wild ride. San Diego Reader: Dr. Bronner invented the peppermint oil soap for soiled diapers Emanuel Bronner Label Dr. Bronner's Magic Soapbox Digital Research Library of Illinois History: The Shocking Story of Chicago's first and only Crucifixion. CaseText: City of Chicago v. Walcher Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Alyssa tells Morgan all about the Fred Hampton Trial. Show Notes: History Channel: The 1969 Raid That Killed Black Panther Leader Fred Hampton Biography: Fred Hampton Chicago Tribune: In 1969, charismatic Black Panthers leader Fred Hampton was killed in a hail of gunfire. 50 years later, the fight against police brutality continue Southside Weekly: Fifty Years of Fred Hampton's Rainbow Coalition Chicago Reader: The Neutralization of Fred Hampton BuzzFeed: You Can't Kill A Revolution: The FBI's Assassination Of Fred Hampton Proves America's Obsession With Dismantling Black Leaders Chicago Sun-Times: Teach the real legacy of Fred Hampton and the Black Panthers to inspire our youth New York Times: Chicago Journal; Seeking New Harmony, But Finding a Racial Rift Chicago Tribune: SOME HAVE 2ND THOUGHTS ON MAKING PANTHER`S DAY Chicago Tribune: Fred Hampton Way? Chicago Magazine: How Fred Hampton Gave Way to Obama Vox: Why the US government murdered Fred Hampton The Murder of Fred Hampton The Assassination of Fred Hampton: How the FBI and the Chicago Police Murdered a Black Panther Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Alyssa tell Morgan Stringer about the legal aftermath of the Fred Hampton murder Show Notes: History Channel: The 1969 Raid That Killed Black Panther Leader Fred Hampton Biography: Fred Hampton Chicago Tribune: In 1969, charismatic Black Panthers leader Fred Hampton was killed in a hail of gunfire. 50 years later, the fight against police brutality continue Southside Weekly: Fifty Years of Fred Hampton's Rainbow Coalition Chicago Reader: The Neutralization of Fred Hampton BuzzFeed: You Can't Kill A Revolution: The FBI's Assassination Of Fred Hampton Proves America's Obsession With Dismantling Black Leaders Chicago Sun-Times: Teach the real legacy of Fred Hampton and the Black Panthers to inspire our youth New York Times: Chicago Journal; Seeking New Harmony, But Finding a Racial Rift Chicago Tribune: SOME HAVE 2ND THOUGHTS ON MAKING PANTHER`S DAY Chicago Tribune: Fred Hampton Way? Chicago Magazine: How Fred Hampton Gave Way to Obama Vox: Why the US government murdered Fred Hampton The Murder of Fred Hampton The Assassination of Fred Hampton: How the FBI and the Chicago Police Murdered a Black Panther Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode Alyssa tells Hugh Yemen about Second City and its lasting impact on improv. SHOW NOTES:  Chicago Tribune: More improvised exits at Second City in management shake-up Playbill: Hate Speech in the Audience Causes Chicago Cast Member to Call It Quits League of Chicago Theatres U of News: Improv Explained Chicago Tribune: When Abbie Hoffman took the Second City stage during Chicago Seven trial Chicago Tribune: Discontent all around at Second City in ‘The Winner … of Our Discontent' Chicago Tribune: Chicago's iO Theater is hit by accusations of racism and a petition demanding change NYT: Viola Spolin, 88, a Teacher Who Inspired Improv Theater The Difference between Spolin Games and Popular Improv HuffPost: Why Ayn Rand Does Not Matter (and Viola Spolin Does) NPR Illinois: From Hull House to Second City: How Chicago immigrants helped change theater Kitty Wants a Corner Spolin Games Online Chicago Tribune Archive The Second City: Backstage at the World's Greatest Comedy Theater A Theater of Our Own: A History and a Memoir of 1,001 Nights in Chicago Improv Nation: How We Made a Great American Art National Women's History Museum: Jane Adams WTTW: Inventing Improv Viola Spolin Quotes About Improvisation Into the Unknown with Viola Spolin A Profile of Viola Spolin Viola Spolin Bio BACKSTAGE: What Is the Viola Spolin Method? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Anyone who watched Law and Order know it isn't a good idea to let a defendant take the stand; yet, that happened last week in the never-ending Mike Madigan corruption trial. Alyssa texted John and told him to ignore all media so they can discuss it. She also explains the history of the recurring character of "The Old Post Office." We learn more about his upbringing and Lisa's dad. Show Notes: Niagara Foundation Chicago Sun-Times: Madigan's testimony changes ‘rules of the game,' and jurors may now hear his famous ‘bandits' comment Chicago Sun-Times: Madigan's son got $43,000 under deal feds call part of criminal enterprise: ‘Give Andrew somethin Chicago Sun-Times: Where Illinois lawmakers traveled around the world Chicago Sun-Times: Mike Madigan tells of father's alcoholism, Lisa's pain from her biological father — and a 'toxic' political relationship Chicago Sun-Times: USA v. Michael Madigan Chicago Tribune: Madigan testifies he ‘would not be involved in a quid pro quo' Chicago Tribune: ‘Did you ever trade your public office for private gain?': Ex-Speaker Madigan takes stand in own defense at landmark corruption trial Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Alyssa is joined by Hugh Yemon to discuss the history of Improv and Theatre Games. SHOW NOTES:  NYT: Viola Spolin, 88, a Teacher Who Inspired Improv Theater The Difference between Spolin Games and Popular Improv HuffPost: Why Ayn Rand Does Not Matter (and Viola Spolin Does) NPR Illinois: From Hull House to Second City: How Chicago immigrants helped change theater Kitty Wants a Corner Spolin Games Online Chicago Tribune Archive The Second City: Backstage at the World's Greatest Comedy Theater A Theater of Our Own: A History and a Memoir of 1,001 Nights in Chicago Improv Nation: How We Made a Great American Art National Women's History Museum: Jane Adams WTTW: Inventing Improv Viola Spolin Quotes About Improvisation Into the Unknown with Viola Spolin A Profile of Viola Spolin Viola Spolin Bio BACKSTAGE: What Is the Viola Spolin Method? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Alyssa and Pat journey to 1908 Chicago passed the first ordinance regarding Pasteurized milk. Then some drama ensued. History rhymes like a Dr. Suess book.  SHOW NOTES: PASTEURIZED MILK LAUDED BY EVANS: Health Commissioner Denies It Is Death Dealing, Producing Weak Children. FOWLER MAKES THREAT. Former Alderman Declares He Will Show Up Conspiracy on Part of Big Dairymen. Threat Is Made by Fowler. Dr. Evans Explains Situation. Farmer Is Spared Dilemma. VICTORY SURE FOR PASTEURIZED MILK: Hey Ordinance, if Passed by the Council, Will Be Vetoed by Mayor Busse. COMMITTEE MAY KILL IT. Health Commissioner Confident of Winning Battle for the City's Welfare. Victory in Sixth Round. Commissioner Evans Confident. Foreman Commends Health Chief. Letters Hint at Bribe Offer. Chicago Tribune: VOTE TO PROHIBIT PASTEURIZED MILK: Minority of Council Committee Takes Action in Defiance of Health Commissioner. DENOUNCED BY DR. EVANS Amended Measure, He Declares, Would Cause a Famine in Lacteal Fluid in the City. May Increase Price of Milk. Dr. Evans and Ald. Hey Clash. Warning Given to Committee. Calls It Class Legislation. Amused by Bacteria Exhibits. Quotes Words of Physicians. Views of Hygienic Experts. PASTEURIZED MILK. Chicago Tribune: BORDEN EMPLOYE IS MILK EXPERT: Condemns Pasteurization Plan as Mere Makeshift and a False Safeguard. EVANS SHOWS IDENTITY. Health Commissioner Cross Examines Witness Offered by Dairymen Opposing Law. Chicago Tribune: MILK ORDINANCE FOES MAKE COUP: Council Health Committee Votes to Abandon Pasteurization Requirement. PROTEST BY ALD. TAYLOR Strong Fight Will Follow to Retain Regulation Advocated by Dr. Evans. Chicago Tribune: LIE PASSED AT MILK HEARING: Dr. Evans Accuses Aid. Hey of Making False Statement;AND NO CASUALTIES FOLLOW;Council Committee Hears More on the Merits of Pasteurization;Dr. Evans Denies Statement;Defends Milk Department;Calls Pasteurization Harmful Chicago Tribune: PASTEURIZED MILK LAUDED BY EVANS: Health Commissioner Denies It Is Death Dealing, Producing Weak Children. FOWLER MAKES THREAT. Former Alderman Declares He Will Show Up Conspiracy on Part of Big Dairymen. Threat Is Made by Fowler. Dr. Evans Explains Situation. Farmer Is Spared Dilemma. Chicago Tribune: DR. YOUNG SAYS PASTEURIZE MILK: Health Chief Wouldn't Remove This Safeguard Till Better One Is Found. TALKS WITH ALDERMEN. Hey Insists on His Ordinance to Make This Method a Misdemeanor. Chicago Tribune: NEW MILK ORDINANCE LIKED: Dealers See Commercial Value in Certified Dairy Products. FEW PROTESTS HEARD NOW. Health Department Assured the Regulations Will Be Obeyed. New Butter Must Be Certified. Strict Rules in Other Cities. Chicago Tribune: DIFFER ON SAFETY OF 'PASTEUR MILK': Dr Evans Argues with Opponents of the Rule Before Council Committee. CALLED LESS OF EVILS. Commissioner Admits It Is Not Ideal, but Thinks It Better than Fever. Federal Expert with Evans. Evans Sees Practical Side. Chicago Tribune: Dr. Biehn Suspended Week Ago Chicago Tribune: CHARGES STARTLE IN DR. BIEHN CASE: Is Bacteriologist Paid by Concern Which Sells Vaccine to the City? BIAS IN TESTS ALLEGED. Neglect of Duty and False Reports of Analyses Are Other Accusations. Statement of Dr. Biehn. Neglect of Tests Alleged. Bias in Analyses Intimated. Absent Often Without Leave. Chicago Tribune: UNCLE SAM INDORSES CHICAGO'S MILK FIGHT. Chicago Tribune: HEALTH SCHEME HELPS MILLIONS: Ideas of Dr. Evans of "The Tribune" Embodied in Scheme Urged as Model.; CONTROL MILK SUPPLY “Pure Milk Is Better Than Purified Milk” Illinois Supreme Court. Milk, Pasteurized. Chicago Ordinance Held Valid. Koy v. Chicago. February, 1914 Neatorama: The Fight for Safe Milk: Pasteurization Chicago Tribune: BABIES WIN MILK FIGHT; VOTE 49 TO 9: Council at Special Session Passes Ordinance of Safeguard. MAYOR READY TO SIGN Citizens' Committee, Backed by Public Sentiment, Triumphs. HEALTH CHIEF IN CONTROL Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Alyssa and Captain Scoot from the maritime podcast ShipWrekt go back to the early 1900's when schooners lined the main branch of the Chicago River selling Christmas trees and boating fatalities were the norm. Show Notes: National Archives: The Christmas Tree Ship ABC 7: US Coast Guard 'Christmas Ship' makes annual tree delivery at Chicago's Navy Pier Block Club Chicago: Chicago's Christmas Ship Docks At Navy Pier With Over 1,200 Trees For Chicago Families Christmas Tree Ship History Wisconsin Shipwrecks: The Rouse Simmons Trailer for The Christmas Schooner National Marine Sanctuary“Captain Santa” and the story of the Christmas Tree Ship Foundation: The Historic Christmas Tree Ship: A True Story of Faith, Hope And Love PBS Wisconsin: The Christmas Tree Ship Charles Hackley Episodes Mentioned: Oh Malort! Eastland Episode Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Are we living in the most debaucherous era? To figure it out Alyssa and Risen Lady Heathen travel back to early 1900's Chicago to discuss a long forgotten degenerate tradition and pollical fundraiser known as the “First Ward Ball” AKA “the orgy.” Think “Eyes Wide Shut” meets “The Purge." Show some love by hitting subscribe and leaving a five-star review like men trying to do a shoesies and tell all your friends like a shocked journalist covering the First Ward Ball.  Show Notes:  Chicagology: The First Ward Ball Chicago Tribune: DECEMBER 15, 1908 Chicago Politics Ward By Ward The Gangs of Chicago: An Informal History of the Chicago Underworld Mayors, Madams, and Madmen Sin in the Second City: Madams, Ministers, Playboys, and the Battle for America's Soul Chicago Magazine: The $12 Million Minute and Chicago's Historic War on New Year's Eve Encyclopedia of Chicago:Era of "Hinky Dink" and "Bathhouse John" : Episodes Referenced: Oh Malort: Drunk Elephants: Or A Glimpse into Chicago Politicians Oh Malort: The Everleigh Sisters: Best Lil Whorehouse in the World. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Alyssa updates John about the insanity that was Danny Solis' testimony. Words cannot express the plot twists.  This is a stand alone episode in the saga that is USA V. Michael Madigan.  Learn about briefcases of cash in China, prostitutes, pot, and more. Corruption Guest Stars Include: (In no particular order) Operation Greylord, Roberto Caldero, Juan Gaytan, Martin Sandoval, Luis Arroyo, Chicago's Former Main Post Office, Dan Burke, Patty Solis Doyle, Brian Hynes, Ed Burke, Lunch Pale Pete, and Hillary Clinton Show Notes: Chicago Tribune: City aids Solis brother's firm Chicago Sun-Times: Political operative Roberto Caldero sentenced to nearly 5 years for bribery scheme Chicago Tribune: ‘Sir, you've been with prostitutes right?: FBI mole Daniel Solis on hot seat in Madigan corruption trial Chicago Tribune: Out-of-the-blue request from Madigan sparked new direction in corruption probe, ex-Ald. Solis testifies WBEZ: Timeline: Key moments in the Michael Madigan federal corruption trial Chicago Sun-Times: Jurors hear Madigan ally McClain puzzling over political squabble hobbling Chinatown project: ‘There's something fishy here' Chicago Sun-Times: USA v. Michael Madigan (All Articles) Chicago Tribune: Ex-Ald. Daniel Solis, a historic FBI mole, exits stage alone after testimony in Madigan corruption trial Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode we talk about Fred Hampton who is perhaps the most important Civil Rights Activist you have never learned about in school. Show Notes: History Channel: The 1969 Raid That Killed Black Panther Leader Fred Hampton Biography: Fred Hampton Chicago Tribune: In 1969, charismatic Black Panthers leader Fred Hampton was killed in a hail of gunfire. 50 years later, the fight against police brutality continue Southside Weekly: Fifty Years of Fred Hampton's Rainbow Coalition Chicago Reader: The Neutralization of Fred Hampton BuzzFeed: You Can't Kill A Revolution: The FBI's Assassination Of Fred Hampton Proves America's Obsession With Dismantling Black Leaders Chicago Sun-Times: Teach the real legacy of Fred Hampton and the Black Panthers to inspire our youth New York Times: Chicago Journal; Seeking New Harmony, But Finding a Racial Rift Chicago Tribune: SOME HAVE 2ND THOUGHTS ON MAKING PANTHER`S DAY Chicago Tribune: Fred Hampton Way? Chicago Magazine: How Fred Hampton Gave Way to Obama Vox: Why the US government murdered Fred Hampton The Murder of Fred Hampton The Assassination of Fred Hampton: How the FBI and the Chicago Police Murdered a Black Panther Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Two geeky gals discuss an exhibit at the Chicago History Museum with some fun digressions. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Alyssa is joined by David Baxter (Thank You Five, Friends of the Countess, The Twelve Months of Christmas) to discuss the history of Grease.   NWI Times: Grease has deep, dark Chica routes Telegraph: Grease at 50: ‘The Pink Ladies? They'd kill you if you looked at them wrong' Chicago Tribune: Bring back our own, original R-rated 'Grease' Yahoo: Everything you didn't know about 'Grease,' from the $171 stage version to the original name of the T-Birds WTTW: Grease Premiere at Kingston Mines Chicago Tribune: ‘Grease' gets its grit back Chicago Reader: The Original Pink Ladies Time Out: Writer/composer Jim Jacobs shares his favorite Chicago memories The Independent: Donna Mills Playbill: Restored and Raunchy, The Original Grease Begins Performances in Chicago, Where It All Began Chicago Tribune: The original ‘Grease' was born in Chicago, wild, funny and new in 1971 The Independent: INTERVIEW / Did you get very far? Aha, aha . . .: Jim Jacobs was happy writing ads and taking bribes. Until Grease. Tell me more, tell me more, pleads Sabine Durrant Chicago Reader: Exactly how bad are the bad kids of The Original Grease? Chicago Tribune: `GREASE' IS HIS WORD NYT: Think 'Grease' Is the Word? A Lawsuit Says It's 'Piracy' A Theater of Our Own: A History and a Memoir of 1,001 Nights in Chicago Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

I am joined by The Pat Whelan from BestEveningEver! to discuss Peter Schivarelli best known as the manager for the band Chicago and owner of now defunct hot dog stand Demon Dogs; however there is so much more. His story involves Streets and Sanitation, No-Show jobs, the Blizzard of 1977, dead bodies, and lawsuits. It is so Chicago it hurts!  We also have some fun digressions.  I laughed until I cried. Show Notes: Chicago Sun-Times: 43rd Ward aide under fire // TV catches sanitation chief doing errands on city tim Chicago Tribune: SCHIVARELLI TO RETIRE AMID JOB CONTROVERSY Chicago Reader: Schivarelli's Beef Chicago Tribune: CTA carryout order: Demon Dogs to go SCHIVARELLI v. CHICAGO TRANSIT AUTHORITY (2005) SCHIVARELLI v. CBS INC WBBM (2002) Chicago Tribune: EX-SNOW CHIEF SHOOTS INTRUDER Chicagoist: The Bill Comes Due For Demon Dogs Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode, Alyssa gets Morgan Stringer's takes on three upcoming Chicago lawsuits: Thompson V United States, The Hoover Case, and Hubbard Inn.  Directly related discussions include: a dead banker found in the master bedroom of a client, Demon Dogs, the band Chicago, Streets and Sanitation, SCOTUS, Real Housewives (SLC and OC), and Coffeezilla. It is a wild ride. SHOW NOTES:  Chicago Tribune: 11th Ward hopeful labors to grow the Daley legacy Chicago Sun-Times: At crooked Bridgeport bank, executive blew the whistle, but no one did a thing Chicago Sun-Times: Dead CEO of failed Bridgeport bank in the spotlight as embezzlement trial begins Chicago Sun-Times: Ex-boyfriend of daughter of failed Chicago bank executive guilty in death of her fiancee in San Diego Chicago Sun-Times: Why did Bridgeport bank president kill himself in customer's Park Ridge home? Eater: Hubbard Inn's TikTok Lawsuit Won't Stop as Judge Denies Motion to DismissChicago Tribune: Chicago Tribune: CHANNEL 2 SUED OVER AD CAMPAIGN FOX 32: Judge allows Hubbard Inn's defamation lawsuit to proceed amid viral TikTok claims Chicago Sun-Times: Patrick Daley Thompson on prison life: ‘It was horrible, absolutely horrible' WBEZ: U.S. Supreme Court to hear appeal of Patrick Daley Thompson, heir to Chicago political dynasty Chicago Sun-Times: Ald. Patrick Daley Thompson guilty on all counts NBC: Hubbard Inn sues woman for defamation after viral TikTok Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

 In this episode Alyssa tells Ben Panko about the 1992 and 2021 versions of the movie Candyman and the urban legends which surround it.   Show Notes: Chicago Tribune: Cabrini-Green and a horror film that captured the fears of public housing Vox: How a tragic unsolved murder and a public housing crisis led to Candyman Chicago Reader: How a story about the horrors of housing projects became part of a horror movie Chicago Reader: They Came in Through the Bathroom Mirror Horror News Network: Cabrini-Green: The True Horror of ‘Candyman' AIC: Horrorella Talks Tolstoy, Beethoven and Candyman with Writer-Director Bernard Rose! Chicago Tribune: BLACK SLASHER `CANDYMAN` DRAWS FIRE OVER `RACIST` DEPICTIONS WTTW: Why ‘Candyman' Continues to Hook Audiences Nearly 30 Years LaterVulture: Candyman Is a Soulless, Didactic Reimagining Chicago Magazine: The Return of Candyman Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Alyssa updates John Zinn about the Madigan trial which organically invokes William Shakespeare, Steven Sondheim, and David Axelrod and others.   Stay for the Putin comparison. Show Notes: Chicago Sun-Times: David Axelrod deliberates on the case against Michael Madigan Chicago Sun-Times: The case against Mike Madigan, laid out in explosive court documents Chicago Sun-Times:Madigan judge has experience with Shakespeare, Michael Jordan — and law used to target ex-House speaker Chicago Sun-Times: Woman whose sexual harassment claims rocked Springfield may be one of first witnesses in Madigan trial Chicago Sun-Times: Mike Madigan, once Illinois' most influential powerbroker, now faces federal corruption trial G. Robert Blakey Chicago Tribune: Our Culture of Corruption Chicago Sun-Times: The politics of picking a Madigan jury: Prospects asked how they view 'politicians for life' Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Alyssa is joined by Molly McAleer from Mother May I Sleep With Podcast and Trend Lightly to discuss "The Steve Bartman Incident" and some parallels to the 1986 Red Sox.   In case you don't know, on October 14th, 2003 during the NLCS the Cubs imploded and for years one man was blamed.   Show Notes: MLB YouTube: The Steve Bartman Incident Sports Illustrated: What happened to Steve Bartman? NYT: Steve Bartman Remains Invisible, 10 Years Later NPR: Cubs Fans Try To Make Up For Sending Another Cubs Fan Death Threats In 2003 Bleacher Report: Chicago Cubs: 10 Things That Would've Changed If There Was No Bartman Incident The Guardian: This article is more than 7 years old Steve Bartman, America's most infamous fan, receives Cubs redemption ESPN: A convenient scapegoat HuffPo: Steve Bartman Incident: 10 Years Ago Monday, The World Met This Poor Guy Reuters: Winning helps Chicago Cubs fans forgive Bartman 12 years later NYT: Cubs Survive a Bartman Moment and Are Headed to the Playoffs The Guardian: The forgotten story of (but not by Chicago Cubs fans) … Steve Bartman Fox Sports: Fan dressed as Steve Bartman at a Cubs-Marlins game Business Insider: Even Bernie Mac's Career Went Downhill After The Steve Bartman Incident MLB: The 'Curse of the Bambino,' explained Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode I tell Jeff Tischauser from Southern Poverty Law Center about the time the Chicago Tribune created a LGBTQA Moral Panic in the 1970's and how it is alive and well in 2024.   We had some audio issues with this episode and are taking step to insure they never happen again but thought it is too good not to release and recording would not have had the same impact. Show Notes: Senate Hearing NYT: Chicago Jury to Probe Pornography and Prostitution Involving Boys Chicago Sun-Times: A Gay Rates Police Chicago Sun-Times: Council Panel Announces Porno-Zones Ordinance Chicago Sun-Times: Burke Goes to Conference Chicago Sun-Times: Runaway Witness Chicago Sun-Times: Results of the Probe CST: Pillars of the Community Sexual exploitation of children: a report to the Illinois General Assembly Chicago Reader: On June 14, 1977 Chicago had its first big gay-rights protest Windy City Times: HISTORY Every kick is a boost NYT: Dr. Judianne Densen-Gerber Is Dead at 68; Founded Odyssey House Group Drug Program Chicago Tribune: Reagan used her, the country hated her. Decades later, the Welfare Queen of Chicago refuses to go away Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode I am joined by Captain Scoot and we discuss Block 37 which was nothing better than a land grab which inspired a book and a BBC Documentary. Show Notes: Chicago Magazine: A Brief History of Block 37 Chicago Tribune: A look at Block 37's troubled past Chicago Magazine: The Block 37 Superstation: Chicago's Money Pit Chicago Tribune: Block 37 represents a painful missed opportunity Reddit Chicago Tribune: Block 37 developer sentenced to 3 years in federal prison for fraud NBC Chicago: Block 37: Show Me the Money (Again) NYT: Trying to Break the Jinx of Chicago's Block 37 NBC Chicago: After Long, Long Wait, Block 37 Is Open Chicago Reader: Mr. Big Spender Chicago Magazine: What Rahm Leaves Behind How Chicago's controversial TIF program took over a third of the city NYT: COMMERCIAL REAL ESTATE; Chicago's Block 37 Finally Becomes a Contender Here's the Deal: The Making and Breaking of a Great American City Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode we discuss Sears, Roebuck and Company. Show Notes: WTTW: The Rise and Fall of the Mail Order Giants (Article) WTTW: The Rise and Fall of the Mail Order Giants (Video) Smithsonian: The Rise and Fall of Sears CNN: Sears' extraordinary history: A timeline History Channel: Sears Chicago Tribune: Sears timeline: Rise, fall and restructuring of a Chicago icon over 130 years Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This is not an episode about the history of Mike Royko. Instead, Alyssa is joined by writer and actor Mitchell Bisschop to discuss his one-man show Royko: The Toughest Man in Chicago and the journalist's contribution to the city.   Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Alyssa is joined by Risen Lady Heathen to discuss innovator Aaron Montgomery Ward and his contribution to retail and the Chicago Lakefront.   Other Topics: The Fire American Girl Hobbies and crafts during COVID Timezones Chicago School of Economics Layaway Pots and pans in the dishwasher Film cameras Why I started this podcast Show Notes:  Chicago History Museum: Montgomery Ward's First Catalog WTTW: Sites Where Wards and Sears Became Giants WTTW: The Rise and Fall of the Mail Order Giants (Article) WTTW: The Rise and Fall of the Mail Order Giants (Video) Wards.com Encyclopedia of Chicago History: Ward (Montgomery) & Co. Chicago Tribune: Edward Keegan: With stadium plans, the Bears are proposing a barely veiled takeover of the lakefront Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

I am joined by Vanessa to talk about Dan Proft. A man who hates Chicago.  Digressions include:  Veggie Tales Disqualifying resume items for Chicago pols Why is Chicago so Corrupt? What Russel Brand has been up to since he divorced Katy Perry Vanessa Googles Dan Proft's hair in real time. Show Notes: Chicago Sun-Times: Through Liberty Principles PAC, Dan Proft spreads millions to GOP Chicago Magazine: Would Dan Proft Really Run for Governor Again? The Daily Harold: GOP gets WIND of Dan Proft's new job Picayune Sentinel Extra: Dan Proft sinks to a new low Chicago Tribune: Cicero spokesman's firm gets pacts to boost town, schools Chicago Reader: If your community news is slanted, Dan Proft may be to blame Dan Proft Discusses Crime in Chicago with Tucker Carlson on FOX News Dan Proft Discusses Brandon Johnson with Tucker Carlson Dan Proft is Idiot Fox 32: Darren Bailey, critic of 'hellhole' Chicago, moves into city Salem Radio Block Club Chicago: ‘Deceptive' Chicago City Wire Hitting Mailboxes Looks Like A Newspaper. But It's Really A Conservative Campaign Mailer Capital Fax: Campaign Ads ballotpedia: Jeanne Ives RayLo on Fox News during the DNC Chicago Sun-Times: The Score's Shane Riordan, Danny Parkins, Matt Spiegel apologize for on-air behavior Jordan's Ex Wife WBEZ: A Lake County judge orders a chain of websites to remove voters' personal information Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week Mo Sting from Hot Dockets and I discuss the trial of the Chicago Seven. So much laughter. Show Notes: Conspiracy in the Streets The Extraordinary Trial of the Chicago Seven The Chicago Conspiracy Trial Time: ‘Violence Was Inevitable': How 7 Key Players Remember the Chaos of 1968's Democratic National Convention Protests Chicago History Museum:The Chicago 7 Trial Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Chicago will host the 2024 DNC convention but is is worth exploring the most tear-gassed convention in 1968. The parallels are amazing. History rhymes. SHOW NOTES: Bill Kurtis remembers the 1968 Democratic National Convention Part 1: 'The Whole World's Watching: 20 Years Later,' A 1988 CBS 2 Documentar Part 2: 'The Whole World's Watching: 20 Years Later,' A 1988 CBS 2 Documentary Part 3: 'The Whole World's Watching: 20 Years Later,' A 1988 CBS 2 Documentary Part 4: 'The Whole World's Watching: 20 Years Later,' A 1988 CBS 2 Documentary Part 5: 'The Whole World's Watching: 20 Years Later,' A 1988 CBS 2 Documentary ABC7: Days of Rage Boss The Guardian: The Whole World is Watching Politico: Looking Back and the 1968 DNC Chicago Sun Times: Royko on Daley during the DNC The LBJ Call Dan Rather gets Punched ProPublica:Protests and Blaming the Media. Sound Familiar? That Was During the '68 Democratic National Convention. ProPublilca: Looking at the Archives from the Time of the 1968 Democratic National Convention in Chicago and Seeing Familiar Themes Chicago Sun Times: Royko on Daley during the DNC Washington Post: ‘A party that had lost its mind': In 1968, Democrats held one of history's most disastrous conventions Alyssa's Twitter Oh Malort! Twitter Alyssa's IG Oh Malort! IG Oh Malort! TikTok Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This episode was released last summer but next week Chicago will host the DNC and given how crazy the last month has been it might be good to explore what happen then. This is a two part episode to belly up to bar and get ready. The Whole Word in Watching. Original Summary: Chicago will host the 2024 DNC convention but is is worth exploring the most tear-gassed convention in 1968. The parallels are amazing. History rhymes. Overview of The Walker Report Boss ABC7: Days of Rage Washington Post: ‘A party that had lost its mind': In 1968, Democrats held one of history's most disastrous conventions ProPublilca: Looking at the Archives from the Time of the 1968 Democratic National Convention in Chicago and Seeing Familiar Themes Chicago Sun Times: Royko on Daley during the DNC Bob Dylan: With God on Our Side  ProPublica: Protests and Blaming the Media. Sound Familiar? That Was During the '68 Democratic National Convention. WTTW: When the Democratic Party Was Torn Apart Alyssa's Twitter Oh Malort! Twitter Alyssa's IG Oh Malort! IG Oh Malort! TikTok Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Twenty-years ago a driver working the the Dave Mathews Band dropped 800lbs of poop which landed on a boat full of people enjoying an architecture tour. Alyssa tells Molly McAleer and Captain Scoot all the details. Show Notes: Chicago Tribune: Band's driver denies drenching boat Chicago Sun-Times: Tour boat hit with raw sewage // 2 large buses on bridge blamed for discharge that sent 5 to hospital Chicago Sum-Times: Complaint links rock band to dumped sewage // Dave Matthews Band denies involvement in tour boat defilement Chicago Sun-Times: Daley: Go tough on Dave Matthews driver // Mayor still likes group despite alleged sewage dumping Chicago Sun-Times: Band's attitude reeks Chicago Sun-Times: Bus' waste dumping leads alderman to call for crackdown Chicago Sun-Times: Matthews Band in harmony with clean-river efforts // $100,000 gift to begin 'healing process' after bus dumps sewage Chicago Sun-Times: Boat tour guest sues Matthews band Chicago Sun-Times: Dave Matthews driver to face criminal charges Chicago Sun-Times: Matthews band driver charged in river dumping // Band faces $70,000 suit for summer's Kinzie bridge incident Chicago Sun-Times: Tour boat owners sue Dave Matthews Band Chicago Sun-Times: Bus driver pleads guilty to dumping raw sewage // Dave Matthews Band cuts ties to employee who sloshed boaters Chicago Sun-Times: Matthews band dumps cash into settlement Chicago Sun-Times: $200,000 apology ends waste-dumping suit // Dave Matthews Band also donated to Park District, river group Chicago Sun-Times: Dave Matthews 'couldn't be more sorry' for bus-dumping Chicago Sun-Times: Nevada family, Matthews Band settle suit over dumped waste Chicago Sun-Times: City's surveillance cameras are making Chicago safer Case Text: Mercury Skyline Yacht Charters v. the Dave Matthews Band Block Club Chicago: Dave Matthews Tour Bus Dumped 800 Pounds Of Poop On People Taking A Chicago River Cruise 19 Years Ago Today Mercury Lawsuit Fox 32 Chicago: Dave Matthews Band tour bus feces incident remembered 19 years later with plaque dedication Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

We finished our Madigan Series.   Much like historians trying to write about the period from the June Trump Biden debate until the DNC. Chicago sans assassination attempt this story has so many aspects happening all at once: sexual harassment, bribery, two federal cases on election interference, ballot tampering, calls for resignation and shifting political favor.   Show Notes: Chicago Tribune: Failed challenger to Michael Madigan asks US Supreme Court to consider lawsuit alleging political chicanery in 2016 election Courthouse News Service: Dirty Tricks Don't Change Illinois Election Result Chicago Tribune: Federal judge dismisses case that alleged Michael Madigan and Ald. Marty Quinn violated opponent's civil rights All Chicago Mike Madigan Coverage House That Madigan Built Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode John and Alyssa talk more about Mike Madigan's career while looking at his impact on patronage jobs, family tree, and rename the Chicago political machine. Show Notes: Chicago Magazine: Michael Madigan Is the King of Illinois Chicago Tribune: How Madigan builds his patronage army Chicago Reader: The Madigan Effect The House that Madigan Built Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Bob Cooley, the central character from Operation Gambit, wrote the judge in Ed Burke's case a twelve page letter. Alyssa reads it to Morgan Stringer Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode, Alyssa and John talk about the Blago impeachment and political dynasties in Illinois. Show Notes: Chicago Tribune: Column: Madigan's name launched her career but possibly contributed to calling it quits Politco: There's An Irish Wake for Illinois' Political Machine Forbes: Why Does IL Attorney General Lisa Madigan Refuse To Prosecute Public Corruption? Time: An Illinois Dynasty Versus Blagojevich Chicago Sun-Times: Lisa Madigan urged to repay bonuses - Foe Birkett says she owes taxpayers for cash dad paid staffers Chicago Sun-Times: FBI targets Madigan papers - Police union endorsements, bonuses under investigation Chicago Sun-Times: GOP calls for Madigan's ouster - Dems dismiss demand for new party chief Chicago Sun-Times: Birkett won't oppose pardon for Cruz - Attorney general hopeful defends loan from DuPage judge Chicago Tribune: Madigan defends role in EIU talks Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

John Zinn and I are embarking on a journey to look at the career of former Speaker of the Illinois House Mike Madigan. In this episode we talk about the circumstances that facilitated his rise to power, some legislative victories, and a, perhaps, little known fact about his daughter Lisa.  SHOW NOTES:  Rueters: The man behind the fiscal fiasco in Illinois WBEZ: Michael Madigan, A Speaker For The Ages, Ends His Historic Hold On Illinois Politics Chicago Tribune: Judge knocks redistricting off Illinois ballot in loss for Rauner Boss The House that Madigan Built Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode Alyssa is joined by Captain Scoot to discuss the history of Taste of Chicago. Was Chicago Fest the earlier version? Not really. We discuss the highs and lows while dispelling some Chicago lore. Show Notes: DNA Info: The First Taste Of Chicago Was On The Magnificent Mile ... And Packed NBC Chicago: “Boooo! Awwww!” NBC Chicago: City Cancels Fireworks at ‘Taste' Chicago Tribune: Boy left at Taste still waits for mom ABC: Food Festival Makes More Than 100 Sick WTTW: What Happened With Chicago's Parking Meter Deal? Chicago Tribune: Music lovers mourn Jimmy Damon, classic Chicago lounge singer Block Club Chicago: South Side Alderman Pledges To Sleep Outside On Troubled Block For A ‘Few Weeks' To Deter Crime The Daily Meal: How The Taste Of Chicago Food Festival Became An Instant Success Read More: https://www.thedailymeal.com/1383889/how-taste-of-chicago-became-instant-success/ Sport Business Journal: Chicago Street Race set to return in '24 despite costs to the city, less impact than expected Chicago Tribune: History of Taste, back to 1980 Lincoln Presidential Library: CHICAGOFEST CST: City Hall got $1M in fees after Sun-Times asked promoters, teams: Why haven't you paid up CST: Michigan Avenue, once a picture-perfect postcard, is now a depressing mess Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode I am joined by legal expert Morgan Stinger and John Zinn to discuss the Ed Burke sentencing.  Image from Hare Brained Show Notes: Chicago Sun-Times: How much jail time should Ed Burke get? Depends on which City Council member you ask. Chicago Magazine: Paul Vallas Really Loves His Broom Chicago Sun-Times: Let's all play 'Sit in Judgment of Ed Burke' Chicago Sun-Times: Ed Burke's lawyers say he deserves acquittal or a new trial Chicago Sun-Times: Ex-Ald. Ed Burke keeps law license after most Illinois Supreme Court justices recuse themselves Chicago Sun-Times: Ex-Ald. Ed Burke retires as a lawyer after the state's highest court failed to pull his law license Chicago Sun-Times: Rod Blagojevich is disbarred Chicago Tribune: Ex-Ald. Edward Burke resigns from Union League Club, scene of key meeting in corruption case Chicago Sun-Times: Former mayoral candidate Paul Vallas urges leniency for Ed Burke, ‘whom I always felt met my standards for ethics' Chicago Sun-Times: Ed Burke is asking for a new trial — with sentencing less than 3 weeks away Chicago Sun-Times: Ed Burke deserves 10 years in prison for corruption, feds say: 'He abused and exploited his office' Neil Steinberg: To love and not to count the cost WBEZ: Chicago's once-powerful Ed Burke faces sentencing Monday, ‘very humbling' days could be ahead WTTW: U.S. Supreme Court Hears Arguments on Bribery Statute at Heart of Michael Madigan Trial Politico: Supreme Court overturns Bob McDonnell's corruption convictions Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode Alyssa is joined by Risen Lady Heathen to talk about the rise and fall of the KKK in Chicago. Show Notes: Chicago Tribune: When Chicago welcomed KKK NPR Illinois: History: The 1920's Saw The KKK's Rise In Illinois Chicago Magazine: The Ku Klux Klan Was Successful in 1920s Chicago (But Mostly as a Con) Chicago Reader: Boys in the Hoods Smithsonian: HISTORY “Murder Wasn't Very Pretty”: The Rise and Fall of D.C. Stephenson Encyclopedia of Chicago DOJ: KU KLUX KLAN - REPORT TO THE ILLINOIS GENERAL ASSEMBLY Hatred and Profits: Under the Hood of the Ku Klux Klan New York Times: CHICAGO OPENS WAR ON KU KLUX KLAN; Bankers and Business Men Known to Be Members Are Being Boycotted. BARRED AS JURORS BY JUDGE American Unity League Leads Fight Against Klansmen and Makes Names Public. Alyssa's Bartman Tweet Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode, Alyssa is joined by Hugh Yeman to discuss "The Mystery of Al Capone's Vault" an event that catapulted Geraldo into a new direction and impacted the media market to this day. Show Notes: AV Club: When Geraldo Rivera opened Al Capone's vault, he turned nothing into ratings Mental Flow: Oral History: When Geraldo Rivera Opened Al Capone's Vault Washington Post: GERALDO'S MAKEOVER The Video Chicago Tribune: Vintage Chicago Tribune: Watch and revisit ‘The Mystery of Al Capone's Vaults' hosted by Geraldo Rivera AV Club: Read This: 30 years ago, Geraldo Rivera opened Al Capone's sadly empty vault The Vintage News: 30 million people watched as Al Capone's secret treasure vault was opened…and it was empty Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode Alyssa is joined by David Baxter to discuss the history of Pride in Chicago.   Show Notes: Chicago Magazine: A Brief History of Chicago's Pride Parade WTTW: How Chicago's Pride Parade Grew from a Small March to a Big Event Out & Proud in Chicago Windy City Times: From a March to a Parade: Chicago's Pride History NPR: Gloria Gaynor: 'I Will Survive' Is 'The Core Of My Purpose' Pink Triangles Rising 10 Historic LGBTQ Moments in Chicago Curbed: 10 Historic LGBTQ Sites to Vistit National Park Service: Chicago: Queer Histories at the Crossroads of America Business Insider: I toured LGBTQ-friendly neighborhoods in 3 cities during Pride Month and found they all honor LGBTQ people in unique ways NBC Chicago: 9 Things to Know About Pride Parade NBC Chicago: New route, timing and more: What to know about the 2024 Chicago Pride Parade Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Alyssa is joined by Pat Westmacott of The Grinning Barretts to talk about Chicago's Punk Icon, Wesley Willis with a few fun digressions. Show Notes: Washington Post: Songs in His Head Steve Albini Chicago Reader: The Wesley Willis Fiasco Wesley Willis: Too Much Too Soon? All Music: Feel the Power Review by Stephen Thomas Erlewine Wesley Willis Bio Vice: Remembering Wesley Willis, Ten Years Later Thrillist: He Wupped Batman's Ass: The Complex Simplicity of Chicago Legend Wesley Willis New York Times: Wesley Willis, 40, Underground Musician Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices