Podcasts about hey chicago

The City Council this week held discussions about the future of hemp regulations, the mayor's affordable housing plan, updates to the city's curfew for minors, and whether Jan. 6 insurrectionists should be banned from city work, among other things. We ask The Triibe's Corli Jay and the Chicago Tribune's Jake Sheridan what came of these City Council meetings. Good News: Expo Chicago 2025 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 voicemail at: 773 780-0246 Learn more about the sponsors of this April 18th episode: Prolonlife.com/city – Use this link for 15% off Become a member of City Cast Chicago. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE

Losing a loved one to gun violence can be extremely isolating. But in Chicago, there are many ways communities come together to remember those who have been lost. Producer Michelle Navarro visited a healing vigil for survivors last weekend organized by Corniki Bornds, founder of the Help Understand Grief (HUG) support group. She talked with Bornds about why groups and events like this are important ahead of an upcoming memorial basketball game for her son, who was shot and killed eight years ago. 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 voicemail at: 773 780-0246 Learn more about the sponsors of this April 17 episode: Prolonlife.com/city - Use this link for 15% off Become a member of City Cast Chicago. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE

The people have spoken. With nearly 90% of the vote, the audience has crowned the winner of our March Madness Ultimate Chicago food bracket as none other than the Chicago Hot Dog. The City Cast Chicago team (reacts to the results) and revisit an earlier conversation breaking down the Chicago dog's origins, their favorite places to grab one, and if it deserves all the hype. Spots mentioned: Jim's Original The Wieners Circle Maxwell Street Grill Dan's Hot Dogs Petey's Gyros The Duck Inn Fixin Franks at Home Depot Vienna Beef Hall of Fame 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 voicemail at: 773 780-0246 Learn more about the sponsors of this April 16 episode: Prolonlife.com/city — Use this link for 15% off Become a member of City Cast Chicago. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE

Will Mayor Johnson's affordable housing plan make it through City Council this week? Do you need a Real ID before the May 7 deadline? What are some of Chicago's biggest foods according to Block Club Chicago? Executive producer Simone Alicea and host Jacoby Cochran answer these questions and more. Good News: Jackson Park Cherry Blossoms 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 voicemail at: 773 780-0246 Learn more about the sponsors of this April 15 episode: Prolonlife.com/city – Use this link for 15% off Cozy Earth – Use code COZYCHICAGO for 40% off best-selling sheets, towels, pajamas, and more Become a member of City Cast Chicago. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE

The fight to regulate hemp-derived products like delta-8 and delta-9 has split state lawmakers and Chicago's City Council. While some alders have pursued an outright ban, others want either the city or state to regulate the products. We break down the different approaches and hear from Alds. Marty Quinn in the 13th Ward and Bennet Lawson in the 44th Ward. Good news: White Sox “Jackie Robinson Day” 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 voicemail at: 773 780-0246 Learn more about the sponsors of this April 14 episode: Prolonlife.com/city - Use this link for 15% off Become a member of City Cast Chicago. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE

International students at several city and state universities have had their visas rescinded in recent weeks, the Chicago Defender is celebrating 120 years, and we're talking Chicago plays to see this weekend! Joining us from the Chicago Defender, publisher Dyanna Lewis and managing editor Tacuma Roeback. Good news: The Pillowman, Moulin Rouge, BUST 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 voicemail at: 773 780-0246 Learn more about the sponsors of this April 11 episode: Navy Pier Become a member of City Cast Chicago. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE

Chicago loves Lake Michigan (just see how many times it comes up on our list of 1,000 things we love about Chicago), but just how integral is the lakefront to the city's existence? A new special from WTTW's Geoffrey Baer airing Monday examines how Chicago's lakefront came to be and explores some of the most interesting stories in and around the water. He talks with executive producer Simone Alicea about the most interesting places he has visited. Good news: Creating Justice 2025 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 voicemail at: 773 780-0246 Learn more about the sponsors of this April 10 episode: Navy Pier Become a member of City Cast Chicago. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE

Local Style Chips are a brand new homegrown snack paying homage to classic Chicago foods like the Italian beef, deep-dish pizza, and the Chicago hot dog. Host Jacoby Cochran and producer Michelle Navarro tested the new potato chips to find out if they're any good, and they talked to Local Style founder Laura Gardner to learn why she thinks Chicago should take over the snack aisle. Plus, don't forget to vote in the final round of our Ultimate Chicago Food Bracket. Which food is most iconic: Paczki or the Chicago hot dog? 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 voicemail at: 773 780-0246 Learn more about the sponsors of this April 9 episode: Navy Pier Become a member of City Cast Chicago. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE

Jury selection began this in the bribery trial of state Sen. Emil Jones III. Jones is accused of agreeing to help a red light camera company alter legislation in exchange for $5,000 and a job for his legislative intern. Host Jacoby Cochran and executive producer Simone Alicea discuss what makes this corruption trial different from others in recent memory. Plus, they talk about large severance packages going to departing leaders of the Chicago Housing Authority. If 80 more people become City Cast Chicago members by the end of April, we'll release a special members-only episode of the team reading our list of 1,000 things we love about Chicago.  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 voicemail at: 773 780-0246 Learn more about the sponsors of this April 8 episode: Navy Pier Become a member of City Cast Chicago. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE

The list of the Trump administration's impacts on higher education in Chicago is long. Students are worried about financial aid, their immigration status, whether their research will be funded, and the future of free speech on campus. Not to mention Congressional investigations into institutions like Northwestern University. WBEZ higher education reporter Lisa Kurian Philip and host Jacoby Cochran discuss the various threats facing Chicago-area colleges. Good news: Al Scorch's Big Fantastical Residency – April Birthday Party! 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 voicemail at: 773 780-0246 Learn more about the sponsors of this April 7 episode: Navy Pier Become a member of City Cast Chicago. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE

The Chicago Teachers Union has a tentative contract agreement. What's in it and what comes next? Helping us break down the details, WBEZ assistant managing editor Kate Grossman and Injustice Watch investigative reporter Kelly Garcia. Plus we are discussing major challenges navigating the city's immigration courts, yet another congressional investigation for Northwestern, and Little Village's latest storefront, “The Tamale Lady.” 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 voicemail at: 773 780-0246 Learn more about the sponsors of this April 4 episode: Bookshop.org - Get 15% off your next order with code CITYCAST Become a member of City Cast Chicago. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE

Now that it's spring, some of us may take the time to tidy up our homes. Host Jacoby Cochran talked to Sandy Spatz, a professional organizer based in Chicago to give us advice on how to sort through our clutter and reorganize our lives.  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 voicemail at: 773 780-0246 Learn more about the sponsors of this April 3 episode: Bookshop.org - Get 15% off your next order with code CITYCAST Become a member of City Cast Chicago. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE

Thin crust or tavern-style pizza recently won our Chicago food bracket debate that we aired to honor the “1,000 Things We Love About Chicago” list. Last year, host Jacoby Cochran, producer Michelle Navarro, and City Cast marketing director Caroline Patton gave their favorite spots and engaged in the eternal debate about which pizza style is the authentic Chicago style. Listeners can still vote for their favorite classic Chicago food.  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 voicemail at: 773 780-0246 Learn more about the sponsors of this April 2 episode: Bookshop.org – Get 15% off your next order with code CITYCAST Become a member of City Cast Chicago. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE

April in Chicago means winter is finally over … right? The weather may not always seem like it, but it's warm and sunny in the hearts of host Jacoby Cochran, digital creator Jenny LeFlore, aka Mama Fresh, and Gretagram newsletter writer Greta Johnsen. They're here with the best events happening this month, tips for avoiding street sweeping tickets, and the bites they're most looking forward to eating. If you're new here, welcome! We've put together a starter pack for you, with episodes and articles to welcome you to the City Cast Chicago community. For even more tips on how to make the most of April in Chicago, check out Hey Chicago's take on what to do this month. City Cast Chicago's guide to April is made possible by our awesome sponsors, Bookshop.org (get 15% off your next order with code CITYCAST) and Moats Entertainment. City Cast Chicago is also powered by our members, who enjoy an ad-free version of the show. Find out more about how to become a member of City Cast Chicago. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE  Reach us at chicago@citycast.fm

Peacekeeping is a proven way to maintain a safe and secure Chicago. Host Jacoby Cochran talked with Damien Morris, chief program officer of violence prevention at Breakthrough who works to build and sustain community relationships as a peacekeeper. Damien tells us what it's like to connect with families who've been impacted by violence while trying to prevent other families from going through the same thing. Damien Morris was recently featured in a documentary for WTTW's FIRSTHAND: Peacekeepers series.  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 voicemail at: 773 780-0246 Learn more about the sponsors of this March 31 episode: Bookshop.org — Get 15% off your next order with code CITYCAST Become a member of City Cast Chicago. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE

How many traffic stops did the Chicago Police Department report and not report last year? Plus, Mayor Brandon Johnson has days left to figure out who is covering a $175 million pension bill, the city clerk is waiving city sticker late fees in April, and Chicago's newest museum is worth stopping by. Joining us to break it all down, professor Arionne Nettles and WTTW's Heather Cherone, who are also adding their picks to our 1,000 things we love about Chicago. Good News: Trans Day of Visibility Pop-Up Closet    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 voicemail at: 773 780-0246 Learn more about the sponsors of this March 28 episode: Bookshop.org - Get 15% off your next order with code CITYCAST Become a member of City Cast Chicago. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE

All week long you have heard us talk about our favorites from our list of 1,000 things we love about Chicago. But it's not just things we at City Cast love. Today we're hearing from listeners, guests, and Chicagoans on some of the things they love most about Chicago. Good News: Syd's Skate Class 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 voicemail at: 773 780-0246 Learn more about the sponsors of this March 27 episode: Bookshop.org - Get 15% off your next order with code CITYCAST Become a member of City Cast Chicago. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE

Chicago is home to many iconic foods — that's why it's the largest category in our list of 1,000 things we love about Chicago. But which of these foods is our favorite? And which is the most Chicago? Readers voted in the first round of our ultimate Chicago food bracket, and the City Cast team is here with the rest of their picks. Follow along and vote in the second round! 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 voicemail at: 773 780-0246 Learn more about the sponsors of this March 26 episode: Bookshop.org — Get 15% off your next order with code CITYCAST Become a member of City Cast Chicago. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE

The Regional Transit Authority, which oversees CTA, Metra, and Pace, put out an alarming forecast of service cuts if the state fails to close a $770 million budget gap for next year. Host Jacoby Cochran and executive producer Simone Alicea go through this “doomsday” scenario. They're also discussing the latest on negotiations between Chicago Public Schools and the teachers union, including a delayed budget amendment vote. Plus, they're sharing some of their favorites from our list of 1,000 things we love about Chicago. 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 voicemail at: 773 780-0246 Learn more about the sponsors of this March 25 episode: Bookshop.org — Get 15% off your next order with code CITYCAST Become a member of City Cast Chicago. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE

We have learned a lot about this city over the last 1,000 episodes, but what about you? We've invited two listeners — in fact, City Cast Chicago members — to test their knowledge as host Jacoby Cochran leads a game show-style quiz inspired by our list of 1,000 things we love about Chicago. Follow along and take the quiz yourself. 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 voicemail at: 773 780-0246 Learn more about the sponsors of this March 24 episode: Bookshop.org — Get 15% off your next order with code CITYCAST Become a member of City Cast Chicago. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE

Local and national advocacy organizations are suing Immigration and Customs Enforcement alleging illegal arrests, a coalition of Southeast Side neighbors is pushing back on Chicago's future Quantum Campus, and we've got thoughts on Lolla's lineup. Joining us to break it all down are Katrina Pham from Borderless Magazine and Maxwell Evans from Block Club Chicago. Plus, we're dropping our 1,000 things we love about Chicago on Monday, and we've got some live music to add to your calendars. Good News: JWF Amp'd Up Open Mic Series 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 voicemail at: 773 780-0246 Learn more about the sponsors of this March 21 episode: Moats Entertainment Babbel - Get up to 60% off at Babbel.com/CITYCAST Become a member of City Cast Chicago. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE

The White Sox are at home for Opening Day next week. But after last year's record-breakingly awful performance, are they even worth the ticket price? In fact, watching any of Chicago's mediocre-to-terrible professional sports teams may feel like an exercise in disappointment. Host Jacoby Cochran and social media manager Rick Homuth argue it's still worth seeing live sports in Chicago … at least for some of the teams.  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 voicemail at: 773 780-0246 Learn more about the sponsors of this March 20th episode: Moats Entertainment Babbel - Get up to 60% off at Babbel.com/CITYCAST Become a member of City Cast Chicago. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE

More than half of Black-owned businesses on the South Side are food businesses, according to the Greater Chatham Initiative. The organization runs FoodLab Chicago, which has helped the likes of Brown Sugar Bakery, Lems BBQ, Majani and other South Side favorites grow. GCI executive director Nedra Fears tells host Jacoby Cochran how they're creating a soul food district to build up the neighborhoods and get them the recognition they deserve. We're also talking Tastee Rolls co-owner Angel Williams about her experience in the latest Food Lab cohort. 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 voicemail at: 773 780-0246 Learn more about the sponsors of this March 19 episode: Moats Entertainment Babbel - Get up to 60% off at Babbel.com/CITYCAST Become a member of City Cast Chicago. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE

Bears fans have enjoyed a great start to free agency and are anticipating next month's NFL draft. Optimism is peaking for the 2025 season. However, one story that continues to haunt Bears fans is the future of Soldier Field. Executive producer Simone Alicea and host Jacoby Cochran discuss the various options including a renewed sense of urgency from Arlington Heights leaders and a Bronzeville “hail Mary” location just a few miles south of Soldier Field. Plus, we discuss five years of COVID-19 and what we'd put in our 2025 Chicago time capsule.  Good News: Eve L. Ewing and Jesse Hagopian in Conversation 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 voicemail at: 773 780-0246 Learn more about the sponsors of this March 18 episode: Moats Entertainment Babbel - Get up to 60% off at Babbel.com/CITYCAST Become a member of City Cast Chicago. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE

Walgreens recently announced its sale to a private equity firm, ending nearly a century of being a publicly traded company. Between that news and recent store closures: Is Walgreens in trouble? Crain's health care reporter Katherine Davis is here with host Jacoby Cochran to break down the pharmacy chain's latest moves and future prospects. 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 voicemail at: 773 780-0246 Learn more about the sponsors of this March 17 episode: Moats Entertainment Babbel - Get up to 60% off at Babbel.com/CITYCAST Become a member of City Cast Chicago. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE

Chicago and Illinois universities are responding to President Donald Trump's threats of protest- and diversity-related funding cuts. Host Jacoby Cochran talks to WCIU TV host Brandon Pope and The Triibe reporter Tonia Hill to break down the week's top stories. The city council approved over $3 million in Chicago Police Department settlements, including $280,000 to an organizer who was assaulted by a police officer in 2020. Plus, CTA's new frequent bus network plan launches next week, Woodson Regional Library is celebrating its 50th anniversary, and the Bears are the undisputed offseason winners.  Good News: Ravinia Summer Concerts Series Lineup 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 voicemail at: 773 780-0246 Learn more about the sponsors of this March 14 episode: Paramount Theatre Become a member of City Cast Chicago. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE

Chicago was ranked at the top for cities with the worst driving experience. The 2024 report found that Chicagoans spend the most time in traffic and the most money on gas. Host Jacoby Cochran, executive producer Simone Alicea, and Axios Chicago Carrie Shepherd talk about their biggest driving pet peeves and quiz themselves on the rules of the road.  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 voicemail at: 773 780-0246 Learn more about the sponsors of this March 13 episode: Paramount Theatre Become a member of City Cast Chicago. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE

We're about halfway through Ramadan — the Muslim holy month marked by charity, spiritual reflection, and daily fasting. With some 350,000 Muslims estimated to call Chicago and Illinois home, we visited the Muslim Community Center in Old Irving Park for a community iftar. Iftar refers to the evening meal when fasts are broken each day. Last year, host Jacoby Cochran talked with lifelong member Amjad Quadri about what the mosque is serving up and how Ramadan is about more than fasting. Support MCC's Annual Ramadan Project to help provide Iftar nightly to over 30 newly arrived families.  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 voicemail at: 773 780-0246 Learn more about the sponsors of this March 12 episode: Paramount Theatre Become a member of City Cast Chicago. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE

Hackers stole information for more than 700,000 Chicago Public Schools students late last year, the district said Friday. While officials say sensitive information like social security numbers were not affected, host Jacoby Cochran and executive producer Simone Alicea discuss why the hack is so troubling. They also go over the results of Illinois' new flag poll, and we're hearing from listeners! 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 voicemail at: 773 780-0246 Learn more about the sponsors of this March 11 episode: Paramount Theatre Become a member of City Cast Chicago. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE

After a near-collision at Midway just a couple weeks ago, and plane crashes in D.C. and Philly earlier this year, we know that anxieties around flying may be on the rise. That's why we're talking with DePaul professor Dr. Joe Schwieterman, an aviation expert and the author of “Terminal Town,” to find out if there's really something going on here or if it's just a lot of scary headlines. Good News: Celebrate 312 Day 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 voicemail at: 773 780-0246 Learn more about the sponsor of this March 10th episode: Paramount Theatre Become a member of City Cast Chicago. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE

Mayor Brandon Johnson was on the hot seat Wednesday testifying before a Congressional hearing on sanctuary cities. How did he do? WBEZ's Susie An and Block Club Chicago's Madison Savedra are here with host Jacoby Cochran to grade his performance. Plus, the Highland Park shooting trial was cut short by a guilty plea, federal funding cuts are hitting researchers in Chicago, and one of the South Side's last bowling alleys is in trouble. This is City Cast Chicago's 1,000th episode! To celebrate, tell us something you love about Chicago. 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 voicemail at: 773 780-0246 Learn more about the sponsors of this March 7 episode: Griffin Museum of Science and Industry Steppenwolf Theatre Become a member of City Cast Chicago. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE 

Spring break is around the corner, which means students and families in Chicago might be looking for things to do, and we might get some people in from out of town. City Cast senior roving producer Lizzie Goldsmith and newsletter editor Ava Wojnowski don't live here, but they've got some ideas for what they want to do when they visit. Host Jacoby Cochran and executive producer Simone Alicea are here to see how they might improve those itineraries. Good News: Las Locas Comedy tonight 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 voicemail at: 773 780-0246 Learn more about the sponsors of this March 6th episode: Griffin Museum of Science and Industry Steppenwolf Theatre Become a member of City Cast Chicago. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE

Chicago goes hard on St. Patrick's Day, and tickets are going fast for parties and bar crawls throughout the city. Social media creator Paige Serena is here to break down the best events and offer some tips for these marathon celebrations. Find out more about Paige's R&B and Roulette event on March 9th, a River North crawl on March 15th, and other bar and restaurant specials around the city. Kevin White's “The Red Room” series on March 28th Good News: Welcome to the Show on March 10th 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 voicemail at: 773 780-0246 Learn more about the sponsors of this March 5th episode: Griffin Museum of Science and Industry Steppenwolf Theatre Become a member of City Cast Chicago. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE

Mayor Brandon Johnson is in D.C. and he'll be testifying Wednesday in front of a House oversight committee about Chicago's welcoming city policies, aka sanctuary city laws. Executive producer Simone Alicea and host Jacoby Cochran discuss their expectations heading into the Congressional hearing. Plus, who is replacing retiring Park District CEO Rosa Escareño and where is CTA adding additional bus service? Good News: Jazz and Gumbo 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 voicemail at: 773 780-0246 Learn more about the sponsors of this March 4th episode: Griffin Museum of Science and Industry Steppenwolf Theatre Become a member of City Cast Chicago. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE

The New York Stock Exchange Chicago, formerly the Chicago Stock Exchange, announced it's relocating to Texas. This is just the latest blow in the long downfall of Chicago's place as a financial epicenter. Host Jacoby Cochran talks with Chicago History Podcast host Tommy Henry about the stock exchange's founding nearly 150 years ago, the rise of trading pits in Chicago, and what will be left of the history once the office relocates. Good News: Mardi Gras deals 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 voicemail at: 773 780-0246 Learn more about the sponsors of this March 3 episode: Griffin Museum of Science and Industry Steppenwolf Theatre Become a member of City Cast Chicago. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE

In October, the Acero Charter School network sent shockwaves through their school communities when they announced they would be shutting down seven Latino-majority schools in Chicago. For families and students, it's been a waiting game as they wonder if or when their schools will close and what their options are. Chalkbeat Chicago's Samantha Smylie and Block Club Chicago's Atavia Reed explain the Chicago Board of Education's Thursday vote to save some of the schools. Plus, Gov. JB Pritzker wants to ban cellphones in classrooms, Lems BBQ adds another prestigious award, and today is Janet Martin Day! Good News: Fat Ham and BUST at the Goodman Theatre 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 voicemail at: 773 780-0246 Learn more about the sponsors of this February 28th episode: Griffin Museum of Science and Industry Steppenwolf Theatre Become a member of City Cast Chicago. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE

Chicago's birthday is coming up, spring is around the corner, and the city's preparing to dye the river green — welcome to March in Chicago. Host Jacoby Cochran, contributor Leigh Giangreco, and digital marketing manager Jermaine Thomas are here with their tips for making the most of the month, including handling the weather, finding art shows for Women's History Month, and going beyond green beer for St. Paddy's Day. If you're new here, welcome! We've put together a starter pack for you, with episodes and articles to welcome you to the City Cast Chicago community.  For even more tips on how to make the most of March in Chicago, check out Hey Chicago's take on what to do this month.  City Cast Chicago's guide to March is made possible by our awesome sponsors, Griffin Museum of Science and Industry and Steppenwolf Theatre. City Cast Chicago is also powered by our members, who enjoy an ad-free version of the show. Find out more about how to become a member of City Cast Chicago. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info here.  Reach us at chicago@citycast.fm.

Are Chicago's bakeries up to scratch when it comes to making Paczki? That's what we wanted to find out, so last year we met up with journalist Joanna Marszałek to taste-test these traditional Polish pastries, which are a cross between a classic donut and brioche bun with a cream or fruit filling. With Paczki Day coming up next Tuesday, we're bringing this episode back to help you find the city's best Paczki, as well as learn more about the history of this holiday and why so many Chicagoans celebrate it. Where We Went:  Bennison's Bakery in Evanston Laramie Bakery and Deli in Belmont Cragin Polish Paczki Cafe in Norwood Park Other Suggestions: Racine Bakery in Garfield Ridge Weber's Bakery in Garfield Ridge Delightful Pastries in Jefferson Park  Baranowski in Franklin Park Hanna's Bakery in Bloomingdale KD Market (several suburban locations) We also mentioned this episode about the Polish roots of the Avondale neighborhood. Good News: Pueblo Market in Pilsen 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 voicemail at: 773 780-0246 Learn more about the sponsors of this February 26th episode: Griffin Museum of Science and Industry Steppenwolf Theatre Become a member of City Cast Chicago. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE

Governor J.B. Pritzker has proposed a $55.2 billion state budget that includes no major tax increases. Executive producer Simone Alicea and host Jacoby Cochran dive into the details. Plus, Chicago has less than two years to spend its remaining COVID relief money, and when one restaurant week ends another begins.  Good News: Chicago Justice Gallery Film Screenings 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 voicemail at: 773 780-0246 Learn more about the sponsors of this February 25th episode: Griffin Museum of Science and Industry Steppenwolf Theatre Become a member of City Cast Chicago. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE

Chicago's new partially elected school board has its second full meeting on Thursday. While the new members are still settling in, the board has big issues coming their way like approving a new contract with the teachers union and finding a new CPS CEO. Chalkbeat Chicago editor Becky Vevea talks with host Jacoby Cochran about the political lines forming and how this board is approaching their new jobs. 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 voicemail at: 773-780-0246 Learn more about the sponsors of this February 24th episode: Griffin Museum of Science and Industry Steppenwolf Theatre Become a member of City Cast Chicago. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE

Earlier this week at Federal Plaza, over a hundred people protested the Trump administration's sudden mass firing of thousands of federal workers. The Triibe's Corli Jay and the Sun-Times' Mariah Rush are here to discuss the latest confusion as tens of thousands of Chicago area federal workers face uncertainty. Plus, we're discussing how Black-owned bookstores are managing, Walgreens shuttering five South Side locations, and the future of Heartland Health Alliance.  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 voicemail at: 773 780-0246 Learn more about the sponsors of this Feb. 21 episode: TimeLine Theatre Company Griffin Museum of Science and Industry Babbel – Get up to 60% off at Babbel.com/CITYCAST Steppenwolf Theatre Become a member of City Cast Chicago. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE

Attacks on civil rights, economic anxiety, war abroad — the same things that worry Chicagoans today were also on people's minds in the 1960s. That's what emerges from Studs Terkel's seminal oral history “Division Street: America.” The podcast “Division Street: Revisited” takes us back through those interviews and checks in with the subjects and their families 60 years later. Two of the show's team members, Mary Schmich and Bill Healy, talk with host Jacoby Cochran about who Studs Terkel was and why these interviews still resonate. 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 voicemail at: 773 780-0246 Learn more about the sponsors of this February 20th episode: TimeLine Theatre Company Griffin Museum of Science and Industry Babbel — Get up to 60% off at Babbel.com/CITYCAST Steppenwolf Theatre Become a member of City Cast Chicago. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE

Chicago Magazine recently put out a list of best new bars, and it included a Parisian-inspired bar in West Town, a spooky, horror-themed bar in Bridgeport, and a marble-clad bar in St. Regis Tower. The team pulled up on most of the list to see if the spots were worth the hype. 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 voicemail at: 773 780-0246 Learn more about the sponsors of this Feb. 19 episode: TimeLine Theatre Company Griffin Museum of Science and Industry Babbel – Get up to 60% off at Babbel.com/CITYCAST Steppenwolf Theatre Become a member of City Cast Chicago. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE

If you love Chicago as much as we do, then you know there are some things Chicagoans are just supposed to know. We're revisiting our conversation from the fall about essential rules for living in the city. Maybe they'll inspire you to add to our list of 1,000 things we love about Chicago as we approach our 1,000th episode. 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 voicemail at: 773 780-0246 Learn more about the sponsors of this Feb. 18 episode: TimeLine Theatre Company Griffin Museum of Science and Industry Babbel — Get up to 60% off at Babbel.com/CITYCAST Steppenwolf Theatre Become a member of City Cast Chicago. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE

Earlier this week, former Illinois House Speaker Michael Madigan, once the most influential politician in the state, was found guilty of bribery, conspiracy, and other corruption charges following a four-month trial and two weeks of deliberation. We've got WCIU TV host Brandon Pope and Block Club Chicago's Jamie Nesbit Golden reacting to this historic conviction, including the juror's split verdict. Plus, the city prepares to lose community clinics in Uptown and Englewood, Beyonce adds a third Chicago tour date, and we're loving one North Lawndale neighbor's ice cream dreams. 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 voicemail at: 773 780-0246 Learn more about the sponsors of this Feb. 14 episode: The Newberry - Use code CITYCAST for 10% off your class TimeLine Theatre Company Become a member of City Cast Chicago. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE

Chicago Animal Care and Control is having its annual “Love is in the Air” adoption event which offers fee-waived adoptions. The municipal shelter cares for 400 to 500 animals daily and in 2024, they saw an increase in animal intake and euthanasia. Last year, host Jacoby Cochran talked to CACC public information officer Armando Tejeda, who told us how the largest municipal animal shelter in the Midwest cares for Chicago's animals and how you can help.  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 voicemail at: 773 780-0246 Learn more about the sponsors of this Feb. 13 episode: The Newberry – Use code CITYCAST for 10% off your class TimeLine Theatre Company Become a member of City Cast Chicago. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE

More and more restaurants and bars are going cashless, meaning you must have a card or a phone to pay your bill. But many of Chicago's most beloved spots are not only bucking the trend, they are committed to staying cash-ONLY. City Cast Contributor Leigh Giangreco spoke with restaurant owners to learn more. Good News: Crying at the Shed Film 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 voicemail at: 773 780-0246 Learn more about the sponsors of this Feb. 12 episode: The Newberry – Use code CITYCAST for 10% off your class TimeLine Theatre Company Become a member of City Cast Chicago. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE 

Episode Description: Months after the city ended its contract with gun detection technology ShotSpotter, Mayor Brandon Johnson's administration is searching for its replacement. Host Jacoby Cochran and producer Michelle Navarro explain replacement requirements and technology the city is already testing out. Plus, we talk about the new neighborhood map reimagined by residents and what places we are looking to check out for Black Restaurant Week.  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 voicemail at: 773 780-0246 Learn more about the sponsors of this Feb. 11 episode: The Newberry – Use code CITYCAST for 10% off your class TimeLine Theatre Company Become a member of City Cast Chicago. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE 

When an individual has bad credit, it might be harder to rent an apartment, buy a car, or get a loan. But what happens when a city or state has a low credit rating? After one agency downgraded Chicago's rating and as the governor prepares to make his budget address next week, host Jacoby Cochran talks with DePaul University professor Amanda Kass about how municipal credit ratings work, why Chicago is close to “junk” status, and what it says about the city's financial health. 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 voicemail at: 773 780-0246 Learn more about the sponsors of this Feb. 10 episode: The Newberry – Use code CITYCAST for 10% off your class TimeLine Theatre Company Become a member of City Cast Chicago. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE

On Thursday, the Justice Department announced it is suing the city and state alleging “sanctuary laws” are impeding ICE investigations. Host Jacoby Cochran sits down with WTTW's Amanda Vinicky and Heather Cherone to discuss the details of the lawsuit. Plus, Mayor Johnson is heading to Congress, women's soccer reaches an investigation settlement, and Black restaurant week begins this weekend. Good News: 7th Annual Cultural Jam, Bridgeport Records Detroit Techno, Val's Halla Pop Up Record Store 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 voicemail at: 773 780-0246 Learn more about the sponsors of this Feb. 7 episode: The Newberry – Use code CITYCAST for 10% off your class Klairmont Kollections Paramount Theatre – Use code CityCast for $5 off Become a member of City Cast Chicago. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE