Curious City

Latest Episodes:

What's It Like To Live In Chicago's Loop? Feb 04, 2018

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A family, a dog owner and tenants of a men's hotel explain why the Loop offers a sense of community amid the hustle and bustle.

What Makes Chicago A Destination For Improv? Jan 28, 2018

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Eight improvisers who got their start in Chicago explain what draws so many aspiring funny people to the city’s improv scene.

What Happens To The Lincoln Park Zoo Animals In The Winter? Jan 21, 2018

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Do the animals go somewhere warm, like Florida? Does the zoo give them coats? We took a behind-the-scene tour of the zoo to find out.

Why Aren't There More Statues Of Women In Chicago? Jan 14, 2018

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Statues of historic men can be found throughout Chicago’s parks and plazas. But one Curious Citizen wonders, "Where are all the women?"

What’s With That Demolition Dust? The Rules And Risks Of Residential Teardowns In Chicago Jan 05, 2018

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Tearing down an old home can release dust containing asbestos or lead. Curious City found that Chicago rarely enforces laws meant to minimize contaminant exposure.

Curious City: The Mystery Collection Dec 31, 2017

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Answers to listeners' questions about the mysterious side of Chicago that lies beyond the soaring skyscrapers and the sheen of the Bean.

Blacksmiths: The 'Plastic Surgeons' On Chicago's Payroll Dec 24, 2017

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The City of Chicago employs 20 full-time blacksmiths. But what do they do? And what's with the ancient job title?

Are Taxpayers Footing The Bill For Patriotic Tributes At College Games? Dec 17, 2017

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A 2015 Senate investigation found that the DOD did in fact pay college sports teams to stage patriotic tributes at games. Curious City finds out whether they still do.

What Would You Do With A Million Dollars? Whether Participatory Budgeting Is Worth The Effort Dec 10, 2017

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Some wards vote on how to spend some taxpayer money. Does it help spread the wealth or is it just a feel-good exercise?

So, Why Did It Take So Long For It To Be Mayor Jane Byrne's Turn? Dec 03, 2017

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It took decades for Chicago's first and only female mayor to land an official honor from City Council. Is there a reason it took so long?