If you're like us, then you love to drink and you like to support great causes. Well, tonight's your chance to do both! The Greater Illinois Chapter of the Alzheimer's Association is throwing a party to raise some money, "to support programs and services for the more than half a million Illinois residents affected by Alzheimer’s disease. These programs and services include our 24-hour Helpline, support groups, educational opportunities for both public and professional audiences, and Safe Return." Last year's event raised over $117,000. more ›

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Here are some things to do this evening to consider bringing your voter receipt. more ›

When this Chicagoist writer left a job in Ravenswood late last year, we knew we'd miss our officemates dearly. We also lamented the fact we'd no longer be within walking distance to First Slice Cafe for lunch. The cafe, located on the first floor of the Lillstreet Art Center, is home to a small menu of fine creations, one of our favorites being the Chicago-Style vegetarian sandwich. more ›

We're jetting off this weekend to see some family away from our dear Chicago, but if we were here, this is where you'd find us. more ›

This afternoon, gangs of Chicago artists are out to change the way you think about Independence Day, slaying sacred cows and cherished myths. Myth #1: July 4 is a time to put politics aside and celebrate America. For Feel Tank Chicago, the personal is political. And that includes how we celebrate The Fourth. Rather than marching lockstep with Team USA cheerleaders, loving their country right or wrong, the artistic collective has planned this afternoon’s Fifth... more ›

It’s expected to revitalize a neglected part of Hyde Park but won’t look anything like its neighbors—a sleek skyscraper surrounded by Gothic curiosities and post-war bureaucratic eyesores. It is the new Reva and David Logan Center for Creative and Performing Arts, expected to rise 160 feet above the Midway Plaisance and scheduled to open in 2011. Yesterday, the University of Chicago awarded the $100 million project commission to Tod Williams Billie Tsien Architects, a New York based husband and wife team plus associates, who “see architecture as an act of profound optimism.” We’ll see if that attitude can transform Where Fun Comes To Die. more ›

Wal-Mart is reporting that the store that opened in Chicago has produced $2 million in state and local taxes and has created 443 jobs since it opened 6 months ago. The USPS in Chicago is hiring 200 more letter carriers. Comcast is buying Fandango and starting a website for watching TV and movies. Should the Lakeshore Athletic Club be a landmark? Some are saying it should after finding out that a prospective buyer wants... more ›

"Xing" via swanksalot. more ›

Bridgeport's a bit quieter these days, with lowkey discussions about rooting for a division rival replacing World Series pandemonium. But the neighborhood still has its art shows, with the largest Chicago-centric exhibit in the city or anywhere, the Chicago Art Open, opening today. The ninth annual exhibition features over 300 younger and midcareer professionals working in a variety of visual media. The work of all those artists moving in and out of our neighborhood are... more ›

Ah, it seems fall is here with all its beauty and crisp air. In addition to the indescribable color of the leaves, we look forward to everyone putting away the cargo shorts and sandals and bringing out the scarves and sharp jackets. We should all get out and see the beautiful people before they lock themselves inside underneath down comforters. We have put together a few things for you to do this weekend to get out of the house. Feel free to add more random events in the comments section. more ›

Chicagoist never gets the last word. Shows run long after we’ve weighed in, discussions evolve beyond our ramblings, companies grow, companies fold, artists work hard to make a living or to make the next news cycle. For our curious and attention-deficient readers, some quick updates on previously reported stories. Art Fairs and Festivals At the eleventh hour, the Merch Mart saved Art Chicago 2006. Soon after the exhibitors packed up came word that Merchandise Mart... more ›

Years ago, in more innocent times, the Museum of Contemporary Art held an annual marathon party to commemorate the Summer Solstice and reacquaint us with the institution. Those days, like the MCA’s outsized hospitality, are no more. But this weekend the Hyde Park Art Center steals a page from that playbook, celebrating their newly christened home during the 36-hour Creative Move. more ›

This week brings an embarrassment of riches for art lovers. Longer, warmer days inspire artists, collectors, and curious bystanders to hook up, talk art, and put some serious coin in a few dealers’ and artists’ pockets. Everyday through Friday we’ll be featuring the highlights of another spring festival, helping you stay sane in these frenzied days of wheeling and dealing. more ›

Maybe you've maxed out your credit cards donating to hurricane victims. Maybe you've been concerned about all those other charities being ignored in the deluge of relief. Or maybe you just haven't gotten off your ass and need to alleviate all that guilt. Whatever your motivations, we've found plenty of ways for you to do good while being entertained, cultured, or even freaked out. more ›

Some of our readers think we don’t pay enough attention to the world of news and entertainment on the south side. Point taken. It’s nothing personal. We love the south side and would get down there more often if it wasn’t such a trek. So for our readers looking to explore south of the South Loop, we’ve put together a late summer art gallery crawl for your enjoyment. In Pilsen, the alternative art space Polvo... more ›