1. How Chicago’s ‘Fraternal Order of Propaganda’ Shapes the Story of Fatal Police Shootings

The union is often first on the scene to tell the story. What happens when it’s wrong? The Reader investigates.

2. Zero Fatigue: Chicago’s Next Hip-Hop Visionaries

The young trio—vocalist Ravyn Lenae studies classical music at the Chicago High School for the Arts—is rising. Pitchfork profiles the eclectic group.

3. Why Anita Alvarez Is Still a Frontrunner

“In this town, politics just about always beats policy.” Chicago magazine explains.

4. CPS Deal Viewed as Last Gasp for Market Access

The beleagured district just borrowed at up to 8.5 percent—and that might be all the money a skeptical market will give it. Bond Buyer runs the numbers.

5. Chicago Teen’s Death Shines Light on Police Code of Silence

Police testimony was contradicted by the video of Laquan McDonald’s shooting, but no one was put on desk duty for more than a year. The AP goes inside the code.

6. What Is the Chicago Statement and Why Are Some American Universities Copying It?

As schools struggle with the boundaries of free speech, the approach of the University of Chicago is making the rounds. The Economist puts it in context.

7. City Fails to Warn Chicagoans About Lead Risks in Tap Water

And its testing protocols are likely to miss them. The Tribune sounds the alarm.

8. What It’s Like to Be a Weed Lawyer in Illinois

One of the state’s first firms to focus on the business finds it’s not for the risk-averse (or stoners). Chicago magazine talks with Dina Rollman and Bryna Dahlin.

9. Archdiocese of Chicago Could Close Dozens of Parishes

The last round was in 1990, when 40 were merged or closed. This one could be much larger. Crux has the details.

10. ‘Foot Police’ Ordered Back in Cars to Patrol Hotspots After Murder Spike

Homicides are up dramatically in the first weeks of 2016, and it’s changing the CPD’s strategy. DNAInfo breaks the story.