1. The Trouble With Robbins
It’s rich in history, but the poorest of Cook County’s municipalities. It’s troubled by corruption, but beloved by residents. Can the town of Robbins be fixed? Chicago magazine checks its progress.
2. 40 Under 40
From artist Hebru Brantley to restaurateur Brendan Sodikoff, a look at the young Chicago women and men at the forefront of their fields. Crain’s makes this year’s list.
3. Doctor Makes House Calls in Chicago’s Most Dangerous Neighborhoods
His mother (and Alan Alda) got him out of Englewood and into Rush Medical College, where he was the only black man in his class. Now he’s giving back to Chicago communities, and to minority medical-school students. The Tribune profiles Dr. Fred Richardson.
4. A Quick Salute to the NBA’s Best Football Team
Another year, another round of Derrick Rose injuries, Kirk Hinrich appearances, and a winning record. How do the Bulls do it? Grantland examines how the Bulls succeed despite not spending big.
5. Jim Edgar Q&A: Solutions, But No ‘Silver Bullet’ on Pensions, Budget, Schools
He’s a former governor, and serves on Bruce Rauner’s transition team. What does he have to say about what comes next? Reboot Illinois asks the questions.
6. The Michael Brown Law: Chicago’s Reception to Cops Wearing Body Cameras
Putting pager-sized cameras on cops’ chests requires answering difficult questions about who decides what to record, and who gets to watch it. WBEZ gets the police’s take.
7. Railroads Sound Alarm for Chicago Gridlock: Freight
The city is a notorious bottleneck for the nation’s rail shipments. A cold winter will only make it worse, but carriers learned from last year. Bloomberg follows the rails.
8. Black Chicago High School and Their White Football Coach Offer Hope as U.S. Torn by Racial Discord
How a teacher from rural Ontario ended up coaching at Wendell Phillips Academy in Bronzeville—and competing for a state championship. The National Post goes inside Troy McAllister’s program.
9. Taxi Medallions Have Been the Best Investment in America For Years. Now Uber May Be Changing That.
Their value has doubled since 2009, to over $500,000. But what happens when almost any car can be a taxi? The Washington Post looks over the cliff.
10. Here’s the Latest From the Case Against Jon Burge
The former police commander got an early release from prison—but are his victims still there? Here’s how one law school dean is looking for them. Chicago magazine talks with Loyola’s David N. Yellen.