Happy 80th birthday, Alderman Bernie Stone! All the other aldermen threw him a surprise party today. Squee, cutest city council meeting ever. more ›

Another Friday, another edition of "Your Friday Food Buffet." This week, we'll try to avoid outright mentioning St. Patrick's Day. We will talk about corn (dogs) and green (as in sustainability). So let's cut the crap and hook up right now. "Eighty? You Don't Look a Day Over 72.": Italian Village turns 80 this year, and the Sun-Times ran an article Monday trying to uncover the secrets behind the Loop mainstay's longevity. It also suggests... more ›

This past weekend reinforced why we live in Chicago. Everything may still be brown and muddy, but the fact remains that the blue skies and warm sun reminded us why this city rules. Here are two more reasons why Chicago is awesome, just in case this weekend wasn’t enough for you. more ›

Chicagoist has begrudgingly come to grips with the arrival of fall – seriously, we had to wear a coat this morning – and embracing the good that comes with it. Namely: sweaters and hot toddies. more ›

We’re not one to brag on ourselves…oh who are we kidding? We totally are. more ›

Tickets go on sale at 10 AM this morning for Neil Diamond’s August 1st show at the United Center. Of course, alertChicagoist readers have already had their first crack at tickets for Neil’s first world tour in four years in The Chicagoist Neil Diamond Contest. We’re giving away three pairs of tickets to three lucky winners. Tickets for this show are expected to sell out so save yourself the trouble of standing in line and check out our contest page instead for your chance to win. more ›