1. The Power 100
Number one is hanging to the top spot by a thread—and trying to avoid a runoff election. Two and three are set for a battle royale in Springfield. Chicago magazine ranks the players.
2. Chicago Police Detain Americans at Abuse-Laden ‘Black Site’
Activists allege that a nondescript warehouse on Chicago’s west side is a secret interrogation facility used by the city’s police as “the domestic equivalent of a CIA black site.” The Guardian tries to go inside.
3. Same Diploma, Different Schools
For-profit alternative high schools allow students to finish courses in a few weeks, with lots of online work, while still earning a diploma from the CPS school they used to go to. WBEZ and Catalyst Chicago investigate.
4. Together With the Kuklapolitans
60 percent of Chicago TV viewers tuned in. Orson Welles and John Steinbeck were fans. Why the puppet show ‘Kukla, Fran, and Ollie’ was such a hit. Slate explains its appeal.
5. Police Hopeful Science Will Solve 1988 U. of I. Murder Mystery
Over the years, Urbana police have gathered surveillance and DNA samples on possible subjects for the 27-year-old crime, hoping to find the subject of her cryptic last words. The Tribune revisits a cold case.
6. Gentrification Might Be Real, But It’s the Least of Chicago’s Worries
Few neighborhoods are gentrifying, but plenty are struggling. Grist puts the issue in context.
7. Rep. Aaron Schock Spent Thousands on Private Planes, Concert Tickets
Reporters used location data from his Instagram account and flight records to trace his path. The AP goes on the hunt.
8. Colt Cabana Gets the Last Laugh
The Deerfield native has succeeded as an independent wrestler through his sense of humor (and his popular podcast). Rolling Stone sits down with a veteran of the sport.
9. Why Chicago Needs a Mayoral Runoff
Even if you think Rahm is the best candidate, a real challenge could make him a better one. The Chicago Reader makes the case.
10. Bruce Rauner’s Budget Relies on a Big Legal Gamble
He’s counting on billions in savings from pension reform, but the state constitution was amended to prevent just such a move. Chicago magazine considers his options.