City Cast Chicago

Latest Episodes:

Are Illinois Schools Wrong on Reading? Jan 11, 2023

Show notes

Some educators in Illinois are challenging the way reading is traditionally taught in schools. They say a more evidence-based approach would get more kids reading at grade level. Cassie Walker Burke is an editor at WBEZ and recently reported on how Illinois, including Chicago Public schools, could change the way they teach reading. She talks with host Jacoby Cochran about how reading is taught in Illinois and why some students might be falling behind.

Some good news: Catch a week of storytelling at the Fillet of Solo festival in Rogers Park starting Friday. Plus, catch Jacoby’s solo show “Lessons from Granny” on Sunday.

Call or Text Us: (773) 780-0246

Will Walgreens Become Your Doctor’s Office? Jan 10, 2023

Show notes

In addition to cough drops, toilet paper, and pantyhose, your future Walgreens shopping list could include a checkup with a doctor. The Deerfield-based drugstore chain has invested billions of dollars over the past few years to add primary care clinics to some of its stores, with a goal of reaching 1,000 by 2027. Crain’s reporter Katherine Davis has been covering Walgreens’ health care transformation, and she tells host Jacoby Cochran about some of the hurdles the company faces.

Some news:

Check out these upcoming mayoral candidate forums ahead of the Feb. 28 election.

Plus, the ABC7 Great Chicago Blood Drive, the largest Red Cross blood drive in the country, runs Wednesday and Thursday at seven locations.

Call or Text Us: (773) 780-0246

What to Watch on the Food Scene in 2023 Jan 09, 2023

Show notes

Chicago’s restaurant industry is still bouncing back after the pandemic forced closures, supply chain issues, and worker shortages. Eater Chicago follows the closings, openings, and all issues happening on the food scene. Editor Ashok Selvam and host Jacoby Cochran share trends to watch in 2023 for dining.

Some good news: Jacoby is hosting his first solo storytelling show on Sunday. Get tickets here.

Call or Text Us: (773) 780-0246

Where to House Migrants, CPS Data Struggles, and Poet Laureate Incoming Jan 06, 2023

Show notes

As city officials try to provide for the nearly 4,000 migrants that have arrived in Chicago since August, some Woodlawn residents are opposing a planned shelter in their neighborhood. Host Jacoby Cochran, lead producer Carrie Shepherd, and producer Simone Alicea talk about that story as well as CPS losing track of some students, potential hikes to gas bills, and record opioid deaths in Cook County. And of course, the team shares some gooood newwwws to get you through, including the search for Chicago’s inaugural poet laureate.

Call or Text Us: (773) 780-0246

An Insider’s Guide to Pilsen Jan 05, 2023

Show notes

Pilsen is known as one of the city’s largest Mexican neighborhoods, but Healthy Hood founder Tanya Lozano explains it wasn’t always that way. Her grandparents were among the first Mexican families to move to the area in the 1960s. Tanya shares some of the history with host Jacoby Cochran, along with her favorite things to eat, see, and do in Pilsen.

Tanya’s Recs:

National Museum of Mexican Art

Resurrection Project

Benito Juarez School/Park

Call or Text Us: (773) 780-0246

Will Illinois Actually Ban Assault Weapons? Jan 04, 2023

Show notes

State legislators are in Springfield this week. One issue that may be on the docket is gun control. Rep. Bob Morgan from the 58th District introduced the “Protect Illinois Communities Act” in December. The bill would prevent the future sale of what’s commonly known as “assault weapons,” as well as large-capacity magazines, and would change age requirements for obtaining guns. Morgan represents suburban Highland Park where a shooter killed seven people during a parade last summer. Rep. Bob Morgan tells host Jacoby Cochran what the bill means for future, and current, gun ownership in Illinois.

Some Good News:

The 36th Annual Young Playwrights Festival

Call or Text Us: (773) 780-0246

How to Make Realistic New Year's Resolutions Jan 03, 2023

Show notes

Whether it’s working out more, exploring the city, or finding ways to get more involved, we’ve all got goals and desires for the new year. But how do you make realistic resolutions and stick to them? Compass Health Center counselor Carrie Overbey shares some tips on building good habits. Plus, maybe you can find some inspiration from listeners, friends, and other Chicagoans who shared their resolutions with us.

Some news: What new laws are going into effect in Illinois? Here’s a list.

Call or Text Us: (773) 780-0246

Harold’s Remains One of Chicago’s Greatest Creations Dec 30, 2022

Show notes

Harold’s is more than a chicken spot — it’s a Chicago institution. There are stories of NBA MVP Derrick Rose getting bottles of their famous mild sauce brought to his home. It’s made a number of TV cameos. It’s even been name-dropped by a certain former U.S. president. But somehow, even with dozens of franchise locations, it’s been able to maintain a community feel and remains a must-try for anyone coming to the city. Earlier this year, Shakeia Taylor wrote about Harold’s legacy for the Eater. She and journalist Arionne Nettles talked with host Jacoby Cochran about the history of the iconic chicken joint, their orders, and where the best (and worst) locations are. Plus, we hear from a former Harold’s franchise owner.

Call or Text Us: (773) 780-0246

Keeping the Puerto Rican Culture Alive in Hermosa and Humboldt Park Dec 29, 2022

Show notes

Humboldt Park is the center of Chicago’s Puerto Rican community. But that pride extends to other neighborhoods, like Hermosa, a little northwest of Humboldt. Last month, City Cast Chicago lead producer Carrie Shepherd took a tour of both neighborhoods with Joshua Smyser-DeLeon, host of Paseo Podcast, which highlights stories by, from, and about the Puerto Rican community.

Hermosa:

Segundo Ruiz Belvis Cultural Center

Humboldt Park:

Paseo Boricua Mural Tour

We have more tours of the West Side and Northwest Side, including North Lawndale & Garfield Park, Jefferson Park & Portage Park, and Avondale!

Call or Text Us: (773) 780-0246

A Stroll Through Lincoln Park — Past and Present Dec 28, 2022

Show notes

Listener Andie Linker grew up in Lincoln Park and loves the expansive green spaces throughout the area. Her parents have been residents for decades and are known for throwing one of the best block parties. Andie reached out to City Cast Chicago because she said while she loves her community, she believes it’s important to acknowledge and repair the long history of gentrification, displacement, and erasure. In September, host Jacoby Cochran visited Oz Park in Lincoln Park with Andie to learn more about her personal history, love for the neighborhood, and her favorite things to see, do, and eat in Lincoln Park and Old Town.

Spots Andie recommends:

Annette’s Italian Ice

Pasta Palazzo

Cedar Palace

Batter & Berries

Pequod’s

Lincoln Park Conservatory

Lincoln Park Zoo

The Second Child

Second City

Zanies Comedy Club

We have got more tours of the Northside for you including Uptown, Edgewater & Rogers Park, and Lincoln Square!