While, we always thought that the debate was pointless, speculation over where Springfield is actually set has raged throughout the 18 years of the Simpson's existence. The creators in "Behind the Laughter" have insinuated that it is probably somewhere in Kentucky, but it was based largely on Portland, OR, where creator, Matt Groening, grew up. For the most part, we are content with Springfield being Anytown, USA, allowing the creators to make it whatever they want for a particular episode. more ›

While we won't get into Chicago's homeless situation, we have to believe the city's vagrants are 97% responsible for the tantalizing aroma of urine that permeates our street corners and mass transit system (the other 3% is made up of drunk bar patrons). While we try to look away, we can't help but be smacked in the face by that indefinable musky pungency that carries in the cool morning air. Since apparently everyone is... more ›

As we at Chicagoist ponder whether or not to add "sketchy-ass hot dogs", foie gras, and the 46th Ward to "hating on the Amish" and Macy Fields as retired subject matter, we start off this week's edition of "Your Friday Food Buffet" with, well, foie gras hot dogs. We also have a photo that should even pass reader Marilyn's sensitive eyes. That is, unless she's in favor of Prohibition. We'd Rather Help Doug Sohn Break... more ›

As with the previous two playoff games, Mayor Daley will make a food-related wager with his counterpart in Indianapolis on the upcoming Super Bowl that'll see our Bears and their Colts face off in Miami. Chicago, with our great gastronomic traditions, always offers up a smorgasbord of culinary delights — deep dish pizza, Eli's cheesecake, Vienna hot dogs, Ann Sather cinnamon rolls, Italian beef, Mexican foods, etc. But typically Chicago gets the short end of... more ›

The -ists this week had politics on the brain. And what goes better with politics? Partying-- that's two great tastes in one. Oh, and Kevin Federline...can't forget about Kevin Federline. That's three great tastes in one. -Bostonist discussed two big state issues-- what sort of math constitutes a marriage and what kind of alcohol can be sold in most grocery stores. And the politically minded Curt Schilling went on "Jeopardy!". -Chicagoist celebrated the election... more ›

Chicagoist's black, cold, bitter heart is usually not warmed by much. We save the sentiment for those who operate under the glass-is-half-full school of thought. more ›

Now we didn't tell you this, but approximately four months after Bart Ross murdered her husband and mother at her Chicago home, Judge Lefkow returned to court Tuesday to preside over a number of routine civil cases. Her deputy said she "didn't want a lot of fanfare", and a note on her courtroom door said so: more ›

Bart Ross committed suicide during a routine traffic stop in West Allis last night and police found a note in his minivan claiming responsibility for killing the husband and mother of U.S. District Judge Joan Lefkow. more ›