The lottery has hit the jackpot. Last year, for the first time in Illinois history, sales of the assorted lottery games surpassed the take at the state’s casinos. The lottery is such a cash cow that Governor Blagojevich has proposed leasing or selling it off saying the deal would produce a big payoff for school funding and construction projects. Here’s a look at the numbers. Read more
The Closer recently visited a tarot card reader and a psychic, asked them the same eight questions, then checked their answers against those of three other, less expensive sources: a Ouija board, a Magic 8-Ball , and my six-year-old nephew. Read more
Chicago-reared MCs Rhymefest and Lupe Fiasco met two years ago while on the same flight home from Los Angeles, where each worked on Kanye West’s album Late Registration. Chicago brought the two together again to talk about Kanye, the city’s moment in the hip-hop spotlight, and the responsibility of an MC. Read more
The Illinois governor’s race is moving into full swing. Here’s a look at the people who are advising, organizing, and speaking for the candidates. Read more
In September, the City of Chicago remounts "Fashion Focus" a 12-day lineup of parties, exhibitions, and shows intended to raise the city's style profile. Read more
