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City Cast Chicago

This week Mayor Brandon Johnson announced that Chicago <a href="https://southsideweekly.com/brandon-johnson-cancels-shotspotter-contract-chicago/">will not renew a long-term contract with SoundThinking</a>, the company behind Shot Spotter, a highly controversial gunshot detection technology. Host Jacoby Cochran discusses what’s next with author and professor <a href="https://arionne.com">Arionne Nettles</a> and Crain’s reporter <a href="https://linktr.ee/corli_jay">Corli Jay</a>. We also break down the million dollar <a href="https://www.wbez.org/stories/judge-weighs-challenge-to-homeless-referendum-on-ballot/06b25934-d4e9-40b7-a8af-deb837ca25f9">Bring Chicago Home media battle</a>, the sudden closure of<a href="https://blockclubchicago.org/2024/02/13/kfc-abruptly-closes-3-south-side-locations/"> three south side KFCs</a>, and the return of Bridgeport’s <a href="https://ramovachicago.com/">Ramova Theatre</a>.  Good News: Friday Night Events!<a href="https://www.secondcity.com/shows/chicago/black-by-popular-demand-a-black-excellence-revue/">Black By Popular Demand: A Black Excellence Revue</a> <a href="https://blancchicago.com/">Blanc Gallery James Baldwin exhibit</a><a href="https://ramovachicago.com/event/chance-the-rapper/ramova-theatre/">Ramova Theatre Chance Concert</a>  Want some more City Cast Chicago news? Then make sure to sign up for our<a href="https://chicago.citycast.fm/newsletter/"> Hey Chicago newsletter</a>. Follow us<a href="https://twitter.com/CityCastChicago"> @citycastchicago</a>You can also text us or leave a voicemail at: 773 780-0246Learn more about our sponsors:<ul><li><a href="https://timelinetheatre.com/events/notes-from-the-field/">TimeLine Theatre Company's "Notes From the Field"</a></li></ul><a href="https://membership.citycast.fm/chicago?utm_source=website&amp;utm_medium=websitemenu&amp;utm_campaign=websitemenu">Become a member of City Cast Chicago</a>.Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info<a href="https://citycast.fm/advertise/"> HERE</a> Learn more about your ad choices. Visit <a href="https://megaphone.fm/adchoices">megaphone.fm/adchoices</a>

Bring Chicago Home Ad Blitz, ShotSpotter Updates, and New COVID Guidelines

Chicago musician and icon Common has been making the rounds talking about his new book “<a href="https://www.harpercollins.com/products/and-then-we-rise-common?variant=41141589868578">And Then We Rise: A Guide to Loving and Taking Care of Self</a>.” It’s all about prioritizing mental and physical health.. Unfortunately for many, the phrase “self-care” often means expensive, time consuming, and impractical for noncelebrities. But everyone deserves access to rest, relaxation, and rejuvenation. So Host Jacoby Cochran, producer Michelle Navarro, and marketing coordinator Jermaine Thomas found some great self-care options in the city for any Chicago budget. Nature:<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.instagram.com/tortugas_hc/">Tortugas Hiking Club</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.sheddaquarium.org/care-and-conservation/take-action-for-animals/shedd-aquarium-action-days">Shedd Aquarium Action Days</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.destinationkohler.com/lodging/the-american-club/about">American Club Resort in Kohler, WI</a></li>
</ul>Physical:<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.instagram.com/chingonasrunchicago_/">Chingonas Run Chicago</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.readandrunchicago.com/">Read and Run Chicago</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.kohlerwatersspalincolnpark.com/">Kohler Water Spa</a></li>
</ul>Community:<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.chicagoparkdistrict.com/parks-facilities/community-garden">Chicago Park District community gardens</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.scratchgoods.com/">Scratch Goods</a></li>
<li><a href="https://blackluxecandles.com/products/candle-making-experience">Black Luxe Candle Co.</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.dinemachine.com/workshops-and-events/">Machine</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.txatxaclub.com/">Txa Txa Club</a></li>
</ul>Art/Creativity:<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.instagram.com/bppchi/">Brighton Park Poets</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.chipublib.org/maker-lab/">Maker Lab at Harold Washington Library</a></li>
<li>Neighborhood art centers (including <a href="https://thebeverlyartscenter.com/">Beverly</a>, <a href="https://www.bridgeportart.com/">Bridgeport</a>, <a href="https://www.oldtowntriangle.com/the-gallery/">Old Town</a>, <a href="https://www.hydeparkart.org/">Hyde Park</a>)</li>
<li>
<a href="https://www.almaartandinteriors.com/">Alma Art and Interiors</a> </li>
<li><a href="https://recycledmod.com/">Recycled Modern</a></li>
</ul> Want some more City Cast Chicago news? Then make sure to sign up for our<a href="https://chicago.citycast.fm/newsletter/"> Hey Chicago newsletter</a>. Follow us<a href="https://twitter.com/CityCastChicago"> @citycastchicago</a>You can also text us or leave a voicemail at: 773 780-0246 Learn more about our sponsors:<ul><li><a href="https://timelinetheatre.com/events/notes-from-the-field-post-show-discussions/">TimeLine Theatre Company’s “Notes From the Field”</a></li></ul> <a href="https://membership.citycast.fm/chicago?utm_source=website&amp;utm_medium=websitemenu&amp;utm_campaign=websitemenu">Become a member of City Cast Chicago</a>.Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info<a href="https://citycast.fm/advertise/"> HERE</a> Learn more about your ad choices. Visit <a href="https://megaphone.fm/adchoices">megaphone.fm/adchoices</a>

How to Self-Care on Any Chicago Budget

As the city celebrates Lunar New Year with parades in Uptown and Chinatown this weekend, you’re likely to see a smattering of dumpling options in both neighborhoods during the celebrations. That’s because dumplings bring families together and represent good fortune in the new year, says <a href="https://kevinpang.com/">“A Very Chinese Cookbook” author Kevin Pang</a>. Host Jacoby Cochran talks with Pang about where to find the best dumplings around Chicagoland. Good News: <a href="https://www.asianpopupcinema.org/">Asian Pop Up Cinema free Lunar New Year screenings</a> Want some more City Cast Chicago news? Then make sure to sign up for our<a href="https://chicago.citycast.fm/newsletter/"> Hey Chicago newsletter</a>. Follow us<a href="https://twitter.com/CityCastChicago"> @citycastchicago</a>You can also text us or leave a voicemail at: 773 780-0246Learn more about our sponsors:<ul><li><a href="https://timelinetheatre.com/events/notes-from-the-field/">Catch TimeLine Theatre Company’s “Notes From the Field”</a></li></ul><a href="https://membership.citycast.fm/chicago?utm_source=website&amp;utm_medium=websitemenu&amp;utm_campaign=websitemenu">Become a member of City Cast Chicago</a>.Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info<a href="https://citycast.fm/advertise/"> HERE</a> Learn more about your ad choices. Visit <a href="https://megaphone.fm/adchoices">megaphone.fm/adchoices</a>

Chicago’s Best Lunar New Year Dumplings

The city’s contract with gunshot detection tech SoundThinking (aka ShotSpotter) is up at the end of the week. <a href="https://chicago.citycast.fm/local-civics/will-chicago-renew-shotspotter-contract">Will Mayor Brandon Johnson keep his campaign promise to end the contract or will he renew it</a>? Host Jacoby Cochran and executive producer Simone Alicea break down the mayor’s options and why it’s such a big decision. They also talk about the referenda on your ballot and Chicago’s most (and least) romantic spots ahead of Valentine’s Day. Good news: <a href="https://partners.exploreuptown.org/events/details/2024-argyle-lunar-new-year-celebration-3258">Argyle Lunar New Year Celebration</a> and <a href="https://www.ccc-foundation.org/lunar-new-year-parade/">Lunar New Year Celebration Chinatown Parade</a> Want some more City Cast Chicago news? Then make sure to sign up for our<a href="https://chicago.citycast.fm/newsletter/"> Hey Chicago newsletter</a>. Follow us<a href="https://twitter.com/CityCastChicago"> @citycastchicago</a>You can also text us or leave a voicemail at 773 780-0246Learn more about our sponsors: <a href="https://timelinetheatre.com/events/notes-from-the-field/">TimeLine Theatre Company’s “Notes from the Field” </a><a href="https://membership.citycast.fm/chicago?utm_source=website&amp;utm_medium=websitemenu&amp;utm_campaign=websitemenu">Become a member of City Cast Chicago</a>.Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info<a href="https://citycast.fm/advertise/"> HERE</a> Learn more about your ad choices. Visit <a href="https://megaphone.fm/adchoices">megaphone.fm/adchoices</a>

ShotSpotter’s Future, Ballot Measures Explained, and Most Romantic Spots

The Chicago Sun-Times recently launched their new Money Desk to help Chicagoans stay on the lookout for <a href="https://graphics.suntimes.com/money/2024/chicago-apartment-rent-landlord-tenant-application-junk-fee/">junk fees</a>, <a href="https://chicago.suntimes.com/2024/1/6/24026250/alternative-energy-supplier-illinois-direct-energy-nrg-peoples-gas-comed">sketchy utility offerings</a>, and other bad deals. Sun-Times consumer affairs reporter Stephanie Zimmermann walks host Jacoby Cochran through some key ways to protect our pockets in 2024 including <a href="https://chicago.suntimes.com/2024/1/1/24011556/consumer-complaint-money-ripoff-attorney-general-bbb-cfpb-ftc">how best to complain to get our money back</a>. Good News: Spring Flower Shows Start WednesdayGarfield Park Conservatory, “<a href="https://garfieldconservatory.org/event/spring-flower-show-whats-in-a-name-2024-04-05/">What’s In A Name?</a>” Lincoln Park Conservatory, “<a href="https://www.lincolnparkconservancy.org/projects/conservatory-garden/">Sweet Gnome Chicago</a>”  Want some more City Cast Chicago news? Then make sure to sign up for our<a href="https://chicago.citycast.fm/newsletter/"> Hey Chicago newsletter</a>. Follow us<a href="https://twitter.com/CityCastChicago"> @citycastchicago</a>You can also text us or leave a voicemail at: 773 780-0246Learn more about our sponsors: <a href="https://timelinetheatre.com/events/notes-from-the-field/">Catch “Notes From the Field” at TimeLine Theatre through March 24.</a><a href="https://membership.citycast.fm/chicago?utm_source=website&amp;utm_medium=websitemenu&amp;utm_campaign=websitemenu">Become a member of City Cast Chicago</a>.Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info<a href="https://citycast.fm/advertise/"> HERE</a> Learn more about your ad choices. Visit <a href="https://megaphone.fm/adchoices">megaphone.fm/adchoices</a>

How to Avoid Getting Ripped Off in Chicago 

For over a week, Lurie Children’s Hospital <a href="https://chicago.suntimes.com/2024/2/7/24065546/lurie-childrens-hospital-cyberattack-crime-fbi-technology-health-phone-computer-email-security">has been without critical phone, email, and other communications networks</a> as they deal with a cyberattack. Host Jacoby Cochran, executive producer Simone Alicea, and WCIU TV host Brandon Pope are here with the latest details. Plus, we discuss an investigation into <a href="https://blockclubchicago.org/2024/02/08/dollar-stores-fined-thousands-of-times-for-expired-formula-labor-violations-filthy-stores-will-the-city-regulate-them/">Chicago dollar stores</a>, mockups of a <a href="https://www.nbcchicago.com/news/local/renderings-for-potential-white-sox-stadium-in-the-78-reimagined-35th-street-released/3350195/">South Loop Sox</a> stadium, and the next tenant in Wicker Park’s <a href="https://www.chicagobusiness.com/retail/barnes-noble-opening-former-wicker-park-walgreens-store">landmark Noel State Bank</a>.  Good News: Jacoby is hosting <a href="https://events.blackthorn.io/en/5fAWdcJ7/chicago-storyslam-love-hurts-2024-4a26Qm4zrJ/overview?_gl=1*jk3292*_ga*ODEyMTcxODIyLjE3MDc0MTg5NTU.*_ga_3VRQZB3V7Y*MTcwNzQxODk1NS4xLjAuMTcwNzQxODk1Ni41OS4wLjA.">The Moth Monday</a> in Lincoln Park and <a href="https://www.ticketweb.com/event/grown-folks-stories-the-promontory-tickets/13432633">Grown Folks Stories Thursday</a> in Hyde Park Want some more City Cast Chicago news? Then make sure to sign up for our<a href="https://chicago.citycast.fm/newsletter/"> Hey Chicago newsletter</a>. Follow us<a href="https://twitter.com/CityCastChicago"> @citycastchicago</a>You can also text us or leave a voicemail at: 773 780-0246<a href="https://membership.citycast.fm/chicago?utm_source=website&amp;utm_medium=websitemenu&amp;utm_campaign=websitemenu">Become a member of City Cast Chicago</a>.Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info<a href="https://citycast.fm/advertise/"> HERE</a> Learn more about your ad choices. Visit <a href="https://megaphone.fm/adchoices">megaphone.fm/adchoices</a>

Children’s Hospital Outage, Dollar Store Dilemmas, and Sox Stadium Mockups

Let’s be honest: Super Bowl Sunday is only partly about football. A lot of us are watching it just for the commercials. In the advertising world, it’s the biggest and most expensive opportunity to create a legendary commercial that will have the whole country’s attention. Chicago knows a thing or two about creating a classic commercial. From local jingles to iconic characters, host Jacoby Cochran and Axios reporter Justin Kaufmann remember some of Chicago’s greatest ads. Good News: <a href="https://hideoutchicago.com/event/axios-chicago-office-hours-3/hideout-chicago/chicago/">Axios Chicago team tonight at the Hideout</a> Want some more City Cast Chicago news? Then make sure to sign up for our<a href="https://chicago.citycast.fm/newsletter/"> Hey Chicago newsletter</a>. Follow us<a href="https://twitter.com/CityCastChicago"> @citycastchicago</a>You can also text us or leave a voicemail at: 773 780-0246<a href="https://membership.citycast.fm/chicago?utm_source=website&amp;utm_medium=websitemenu&amp;utm_campaign=websitemenu">Become a member of City Cast Chicago</a>.Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info<a href="https://citycast.fm/advertise/"> HERE</a> Learn more about your ad choices. Visit <a href="https://megaphone.fm/adchoices">megaphone.fm/adchoices</a>

When Chicago Commercials Ruled the Ad World

Mardi Gras is on Tuesday, but many Chicagoans know the holiday as Paczki Day. That’s because Chicago once had the largest Polish population outside of Warsaw, and their Fat Tuesday (and Thursday) pastry of choice was this cross between a classic donut and brioche bun with a cream or fruit filling. Host Jacoby Cochran and journalist <a href="https://www.joannamarszalek.com/">Joanna Marszałek</a> decided to avoid the Paczki Day lines and met up in Logan Square for a paczki taste test. Where We Went: <ul>
<li><a href="https://bennisonscakes.com/">Bennison’s Bakery in Evanston</a></li>
<li><a href="https://laramiebakerydeli.com/">Laramie Bakery and Deli in Belmont Cragin</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.facebook.com/polishpaczkicafe/">Polish Paczki Cafe in Norwood Park</a></li>
</ul>Other Suggestions:<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.racinebakery.com/">Racine Bakery in Garfield Ridge</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.webersbakery.com/">Weber’s Bakery in Garfield Ridge</a></li>
<li>
<a href="https://www.delightfulpastries.com/">Delightful Pastries in Jefferson Park</a> </li>
<li><a href="https://www.yelp.com/biz/baranowski-bakery-and-deli-franklin-park">Baranowski in Franklin Park</a></li>
<li><a href="https://hannasbakerycafe.com/">Hanna's Bakery in Bloomingdale</a></li>
<li><a href="https://mykdmarket.com/">KD Market (several suburban locations)</a></li>
</ul> Good News: <a href="https://www.choosechicago.com/chicago-chinese-new-year/">Lunar New Year Celebrations</a> Want some more City Cast Chicago news? Then make sure to sign up for our<a href="https://chicago.citycast.fm/newsletter/"> Hey Chicago newsletter</a>. Follow us<a href="https://twitter.com/CityCastChicago"> @citycastchicago</a>You can also text us or leave a voicemail at: 773 780-0246<a href="https://membership.citycast.fm/chicago?utm_source=website&amp;utm_medium=websitemenu&amp;utm_campaign=websitemenu">Become a member of City Cast Chicago</a>.Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info<a href="https://citycast.fm/advertise/"> HERE</a>  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit <a href="https://megaphone.fm/adchoices">megaphone.fm/adchoices</a>

How to Find Chicago's Best Paczki

<a href="https://www.chicagotribune.com/2024/02/05/metra-ventra-app-glitches/">The Ventra app ran into some issues</a> due to updates and changes to Metra’s fare structure, including reducing the number of fare zones and the end of the 10-ride ticket. Host Jacoby Cochran and producer Michelle Navarro talk about how riders are affected and <a href="https://chicagoelections.gov/getting-ballot/election-calendar">run through important election dates</a>. Plus, we listen to dating advice from Chicago matchmaker and dating coach <a href="https://www.threedayrule.com/kara">Kara Laricks at Three Day Rule.</a>  <a href="https://www.threedayrule.com/matchmaking/kara">Connect with Kara Laricks and join their free pool of singles </a>Check out <a href="https://www.nobodysdarlingbar.com/">Nobody’s Darling</a><a href="https://dice.fm/event/9knko-please-date-my-friend-a-night-of-power-points-15th-feb-color-club-ballroom-chicago-tickets">“Please Date My Friend: A Night of Powerpoints” </a>February 15 at the Color Club  Some good news: <a href="https://www.bcbsil.com/bdnc/pullman/events-and-activities">Blue Door Neighborhood Center Black History Month celebration</a> Want some more City Cast Chicago news? Then make sure to sign up for our<a href="https://chicago.citycast.fm/newsletter/"> Hey Chicago newsletter</a>. Follow us<a href="https://twitter.com/CityCastChicago"> @citycastchicago</a>You can also text us or leave a voicemail at: 773 780-0246<a href="https://membership.citycast.fm/chicago?utm_source=website&amp;utm_medium=websitemenu&amp;utm_campaign=websitemenu">Become a member of City Cast Chicago</a>.Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info<a href="https://citycast.fm/advertise/"> HERE</a>  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit <a href="https://megaphone.fm/adchoices">megaphone.fm/adchoices</a>

Train Fare Troubles, Key Election Dates, and Chicago Matchmaking Tips

<a href="https://www.cps.edu/about/local-school-councils/lsc-elections/">Thursday is the deadline to apply to run for your local school council</a>. The councils help drive big decisions across Chicago’s schools like approving how funds are allocated and evaluating and selecting principals. They’re also one of the main ways students, parents, and neighbors can get involved. That’s why we’re revisiting our conversation from the fall with Chalkbeat Chicago editor Becky Vevea to learn about why having robust LSCs is important. Some Good News: <a href="https://www.chipublib.org/news/2024-chicago-public-library-maker-in-residence-application/">Apply to be a Chicago Public Library maker-in-residence</a> Want some more City Cast Chicago news? Then make sure to sign up for our<a href="https://chicago.citycast.fm/newsletter/"> Hey Chicago newsletter</a>. Follow us<a href="https://twitter.com/CityCastChicago"> @citycastchicago</a>You can also text us or leave a voicemail at: 773 780-0246<a href="https://membership.citycast.fm/chicago?utm_source=website&amp;utm_medium=websitemenu&amp;utm_campaign=websitemenu">Become a member of City Cast Chicago</a>.Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info<a href="https://citycast.fm/advertise/"> HERE</a> Learn more about your ad choices. Visit <a href="https://megaphone.fm/adchoices">megaphone.fm/adchoices</a>

What Do Local School Councils Even Do?

Just in time for Presidents Day, the Illinois State Museum in Springfield has opened an 

exhibit on the presidents who have called Illinois home

: Abraham Lincoln, Ulysses S. Grant, Ronald Reagan, and Barack Obama.

How well do you know these four and their Illinois ties? Hey Chicago is challenging you to trivia before the holiday Monday.

Abraham Lincoln, Ulysses S. Grant, Ronald Reagan, and Barack Obama: How well do you know these four former presidents and their Illinois ties?

Can You Ace This Illinois Presidents Day Quiz?

Can You Ace This Illinois Presidents Quiz?

Local Civics

The natural gas stove debate is heating up in Chicago.

Alders introduced an ordinance last month that would ban natural gas heating and appliances in new homes and businesses. Here’s what to know and why you should care.

Natural gas stoves emit greenhouse gases that affect the planet, 

but it’s the health effects that could be more concerning

, according to the Conversation. Nitrogen dioxide, a byproduct of gas stove use and an air pollutant, can worsen or trigger respiratory illness like asthma.

The ordinance wouldn’t affect existing buildings. 

🪭 Creating more ventilation when you cook by turning on a range hood, opening windows, or adding a fan.

⏲️ Using your stove for less time or cooking with other appliances.

🎛 Switching to an electric or induction stove.

But Critics Say Natural Gas Stoves Are Cheaper

electric and gas stoves are similarly priced

 while induction stoves might have a higher premium, USA Today reported. It can also be more cost-effective to set up a gas stove in a building that's already outfitted for gas appliances. Gas tends to cost slightly less than electric for ongoing payments.

A couple years ago, the feds launched a program to fund rebates for home energy and efficiency upgrades. 

Illinois has not yet applied for those funds

, according to the U.S. Energy Department.

Facing significant opposition, the Mayor Brandon Johnson–backed legislation failed to advance last month to a committee hearing or vote.

Another group of alders is pushing for a 

Time will tell if Chicago follows the lead of cities like New York City and Los Angeles.

Alders introduced an ordinance last month that would ban natural gas heating and appliances in new homes and businesses.

Why Chicago's Gas Stove Debate is Heating Up

Urban Almanac

 Sunday? Here’s what to know and where to go.

Chinatown moved from the Loop to the South Side in the 1900s. And its distance from downtown is why 

 continues to grow while other cities’ shrink, Pui Tak Center’s David Wu told ABC7.

Photographer 

 spent a lot of time in the neighborhood growing up since both his parents worked there. He shares his fav spots.

🥟 Dim sum is the group decision? Go to 

, get any of their banquet-style seafood dishes. Lobster noodles make any occasion feel celebratory.

 is a wonderful cocktail bar by Lily Wang and Joe Briglio. It’s been on many best-of lists for good reason! The drinks are complex, delightful, and highlight a variety of Asian ingredients such as Sichuan peppercorn and baijiu.

🚶 Walk down the main stretch of Wentworth to look at some of the Chinese-style facades of the buildings, most of which date back to the early 1900s, including the prominent 

 to take in some of the beautiful murals that adorn the supports underneath the 18th Street bridge.

Headed to Chinatown for the Lunar New Year Parade Sunday? Here’s what to know and where to go.

Get to Know Chinatown

Neighborhood Guides

 Saturday, explore the North Side historic district.

Off the Argyle Red Line stop in Uptown, the area was transformed by Chinese immigrants as well as Cambodian and Vietnamese refugees in the ‘70s, who helped create the business district we know today.

Anti-Asian hate crimes and pandemic business struggles prompted organizer Sany Nguyễn to co-found 

 in 2021, an initiative to bring Chicagoans to support small businesses. She shared her recs along with City Cast Chicago executive producer and Uptown resident Simone Alicea.

🍜 There's no shortage of pho in the area, but the broth at 

 is perfect for a quick banh mi bite. Grab macrons or check out the mini Vietnamese market while you're there.

🍚 Want to get our of your pad thai comfort zone? Try 

. Props to the City Cast listener who put us on!

🇨🇱 There's also a cluster of Latin American food: You won’t regret the Chilean empanadas from 

 slings out Venezuelan eats, and every visit feels like a party.

 is a Michelin Bib Gourmand Oaxacan spot.

 is a neighborhood favorite for a reason.

 has all the bubble tea combos you can dream of!

🩷 Who said you can't drink your desserts?

! Asia on Argyle is full of beautiful murals from local and nationally known artists. You’ll see a mix of cultural and historical pieces that are beautifully curated for this neighborhood.

🛒 Pick up international snacks and hard-to-find ingredients at 

 has plants and kitchen supplies for sale.

, which has been serving immigrants in Uptown since 1981.

While you are at the Argyle Lunar New Year Parade Saturday, explore the North Side historic district.

Get to Know Asia on Argyle

With love in the air and Valentine’s Day around the corner, some Chicagoans might be getting ready to pop the big question. Lincoln Park photographer Amy Boyle identified some of the best spots in the city for every type of proposal.

An L Ride to or from your favorite station (

 or for maximum effort, charter your own train for $3,000

While jumbotrons are overrated, outdoor space around the ballparks are more unique.

360 Chicago Observation Deck at the John Hancock

Beneath the Tiffany Dome at the Chicago Cultural Center

Cindy’s Rooftop, but Chicago is world-class for restaurants, and there IS a romantic restaurant for everyone’s taste and budget.

With love in the air and Valentine’s Day around the corner, some Chicagoans might be getting ready to pop the big question.

Where to Get Engaged in Chicago

Chicago's Best

Chicagoans are lining up outside of bakeries across the city right now to get paczki — Polish deep-fried balls of dough filled with jam, custard, or other fillings — for Fat Tuesday. That includes 

 in Jefferson Park, which has churned out about 40,000 paczki for the holiday.

Owner and chef Dobra Bielinski gave us a peek into Paczki Day madness.

This interview has been edited for length and clarity.

What is the difference between paczki and doughnuts?

“[Paczki] dough is not very sweet. You glaze it when it's hot so the glaze is very thin. You add butter, eggs, and milk to the dough, which doughnuts don’t have. You add lemon oil, spiced rum, vanilla, and orange oil, so it just gives it an amazing flavor. Doughnuts typically use water, flour, yeast, salt, and sugar — unless it's like a buttermilk doughnut.

Delightful Pastries opened in 1998. What Paczki Day trends have you seen over time? 

“People don't want to have a PhD in biology and chemistry to read ingredients. … I also see that a lot more people are eating gluten-free. I [also] traditionally have made pastries with less sugar in them, and that's been a trend.”

“A lot of bakeries make doughnuts and then on Fat Tuesday, they just call them paczki. And it just irks me to no end because it's like making Chicago pizza with Swiss cheese, anchovies, and eggs.”

“We're a little bit milder mannered, we're a little bit more accepting of other cultures and we take what's best of other cultures and we kind of integrate it into our social atmosphere.”

Pick up Delightful Pastries' paczki in flavors

 from plum butter to German chocolate. Plus, don’t miss the “drunken” paczki.

Some Chicagoans took a paczki-making class

 over the weekend, and this newsletter editor had FOMO.

🤤 Plus, other paczki spots 

Chicagoans are lining up outside of bakeries across the city for Paczki Day.

How a Northwest Side Bakery Churns Out 40,000 Paczki

3 Questions With

Mayor Brandon Johnson has a big decision to make this week: Will he keep his campaign promise and decline to renew ShotSpotter’s contract when it expires Friday? We’re diving into what’s at stake and why Chicagoans are divided.

The technology uses microphones and sensors to identify gunfire sounds and alert police.

In the seven years since Chicago first contracted the company, which has since rebranded to SoundThinking, Chicagoans have been divided.

Supporters say ShotSpotter helps police arrive at the scene more quickly. Critics say the technology is expensive and unfairly targets Black and brown neighborhoods. 

There are also questions about the tech’s accuracy

ShotSpotter proponents and opponents spoke up at a 

heated meeting in Auburn Gresham Thursday

The Cook County state’s attorney's office is the latest body to

The state’s attorney found ShotSpotter helped make arrests in 1% of more than 12,000 incidents over five years.

The MacArthur Justice Center reported in 2021 that 86% of Chicago police deployments from ShotSpotter alerts prompted no formal crime reports.

The city’s top watchdog also found ShotSpotter alerts rarely led to gun-related charges.

The first-term mayor has stayed silent on what he will do this week. He did sign a contract extension in June, but said it was left over from the last administration. 

Johnson-appointed Chicago Police Department Chief Larry Snelling has vocally supported ShotSpotter

Mayor Brandon Johnson has a big decision to make this week.

Will Chicago Stick With ShotSpotter?

We’re headed to Evergreen Park for our next neighborhood guide.

Bordered by Chicago on three sides, part of the southwest suburb was built in the late 19th century to resemble the Arc de Triomphe area of Paris. The village was named after the evergreen trees planted there. With visitors going to nearby cemeteries, restaurants, taverns, and other businesses began popping up. The area is largely residential today.

One of those residents is Christopher Chaney, a baker who moved to Evergreen Park after growing up in Wrightwood. He shares his recs.

🍱 If you want authentic Thai and Vietnamese food, 

 has flavorful foods, great drinks, and a fantastic atmosphere.

 offers Chicago-style diner food with a throwback vibe. On Wednesdays, they offer 50-cent wings when you dine in.

 is a great educational place with hands-on play, interactive rooms, and exhibits. They also offer active military discounts.

🚲 As a kid with a bike, Chaney loved exploring the 

, which offers a unique interactive walking trail.

 takes place in the warmer months. Check out arts and crafts, food trucks, artisan breads, fried pound cake, and more.

🔎 An excellent activity for the whole family or the perfect date night is the 

, which offers various rooms for beginners and advanced escape room goers.

Order everything from muffins to sweet potato cinnamon raisin sourdough loaves from 

. Come spring, Chaney will have ready-to-eat foods — like Korean-style fried chicken and beef hot dogs — for sale.

We’re headed to the Southwest suburb for our next neighborhood guide.

How Evergreen Park Got its Name

it’s not too early for Chicagoans to create a voting plan

Mail-in ballots will start to be sent out Thursday. But if you haven’t signed up yet, don’t fret: 

Chicago voters can register to vote by mail until March 14

. Mail-in ballots — whether dropped off at a secured drop box, the Chicago Board of Elections, or sent in the mail — have to be postmarked by March 19 for your vote to count.

Chicagoans who prefer to vote early and in person can head to the supersite in the Loop starting Feb. 15. 

Early voting sites in each of the city’s 50 wards will open March 5

. Residents can vote at any site no matter where they live in the city.

, the supersite, or any of the early voting sites. Ballots, which could be on a touchscreen voting machine or on paper, come in several languages including Spanish, Chinese, and more.

And if you moved or are moving before Feb. 18 like your fav newsletter editor, 

be sure to update your registration and vote at your new address

. Otherwise, you’re registered at your old home.

🗳️ How do you like to vote?

With the March 19 primary sneaking up, it’s not too early for Chicagoans to create a voting plan.

How to Vote in Chicago 

With Valentine’s Day around the corner, love is in the air. That’s why we’ve got you covered with 

 and date ideas to help you get to know that new special someone.

Show your date the stars at Adler Planetarium

, which is open late and free for Illinois residents on Wednesday nights. For a daytime option, go to the 

 conservatories instead of buying flowers.

Learn your date’s niche interest, then find the Chicago museum dedicated to it. Bugs? 

 are arcade bars with multiple locations. Or if you’re feeling more adventurous, 

 in Pilsen offers several artistic options from the classic sip-and-paint to date night pottery. Bonus: You’ll always have the art to remember your date!

Drinks may be a classic first date, but it’s not always easy to find a bar that’s not too loud, easy to get to, and with a good drink to boot. We got you: Try 

💖 Plus, even more date ideas

With Valentine’s Day around the corner, love is in the air.

Chicago's Best First Date Spots

Rooting for the Bears hasn’t been easy lately, but Markham resident and 

 Shameka Leach has remained optimistic about the team’s potential on and off the field.

Leach is headed to Vegas to catch the Super Bowl and to compete for 

. She caught up with Hey Chicago before the big weekend.

“My dad used to make us all watch football. It wasn't a choice back then, it was a Sunday ritual. We would go to church, the Bears played, we tailgated from home. … [My late aunt] used to do community service with the NFL — unfortunately, she was a Packers fan — but when it came to the love of the game and community service, that's who taught me that it's more than just a game.”

“I always try to look at the good of the game, whether it's the actual game or outside of the game. So I always try to put light on the community side because those same guys we're paying to play, we don't see [them] going into the hospital to that dying child and all they wanted to see was our quarterback before they passed away. So that's the light I'm trying to shine: that these guys are not just playing football and we just don't have fans that physically sit in the stands, but it's the love for football everywhere.”

Who is your biggest competition for NFL Fan of the Year?

“People don't know that all of us are Facebook friends. It's now all 32 of us. And just watching [

] give back to his community — he don't even know this makes me excited because he's doing the same thing I'm doing. He's giving back to the kids. He's got a program in Cincinnati that gives the kids the opportunity to go to the football games. I don't only look at it as competition, I look at who is the next person that's like me, and it's him.”

Listen To Our Podcast

City Cast Chicago

Bring Chicago Home Ad Blitz, ShotSpotter Updates, and New COVID Guidelines

Bring Chicago Home Ad Blitz, ShotSpotter Updates, and New COVID Guidelines

How to Self-Care on Any Chicago Budget

Chicago’s Best Lunar New Year Dumplings

ShotSpotter’s Future, Ballot Measures Explained, and Most Romantic Spots

How to Avoid Getting Ripped Off in Chicago

Children’s Hospital Outage, Dollar Store Dilemmas, and Sox Stadium Mockups

When Chicago Commercials Ruled the Ad World

How to Find Chicago's Best Paczki

Train Fare Troubles, Key Election Dates, and Chicago Matchmaking Tips

What Do Local School Councils Even Do?

Can You Ace This Illinois Presidents Quiz?

Why Chicago's Gas Stove Debate is Heating Up

Get to Know Chinatown

Get to Know Asia on Argyle

Where to Get Engaged in Chicago

How a Northwest Side Bakery Churns Out 40,000 Paczki

Will Chicago Stick With ShotSpotter?

How Evergreen Park Got its Name

How to Vote in Chicago

Chicago's Best First Date Spots

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Why This Chicago Bears Fan is Staying Hopeful

What to Do in Chicago in February

How to Entertain Chicago Kids (Besides Museums, Parks, and Zoos)

Where to Make Valentine's Day Reservations in Chicago

How to Be a DNC Neighborhood Ambassador

Eat Your Way Through Chicago's Little India

Meet the Chicagoans Behind "Traveling While POC"

Your Guide to Chicago Architecture

A Chicagoan’s Guide to Indoor Plants