1. Medical Wonders
A brain-cancer vaccine and a prosthesis that can feel are two Chicago-grown innovations that could change the way we live. Chicago magazine rounds up five possible game-changers.
2. Bowie a Pop Hit for MCA, Which Ponders What’s Next
“David Bowie Is” will likely close as the most popular exhibit in the museum’s history, which averaged 2,000 visitors a day during its run. The Tribune breaks it down.
3. Profile: Leon Lewandowski
The Chicagoan was a peer of Richard Nickel, but gave up street photography for the studio. Now his city work is getting a new look. Design Observer debuts his archive.
4. Making It Work: Life on Minimum Wage
For a singe mother with six children, it means no gas in the apartment and two jobs. The Chicago Reporter profiles Maria Garcia.
5. Beer Giants Cultivate Their Crafty Side
Anheuser-Busch InBev held its annual meeting at Goose Island last year—and it hopes to learn from the legendary microbrewery it purchased. The Wall Street Journal previews their strategies.
6. It’s a Tragedy, Even With the Clowns
A “joyful eulogy” to the Iroquois Theater tragedy has unexpectedly become a holiday hit in Chicago. The New York Times explains.
7. The 2014 Chicago Streetsies
Where the city put its best foot forward on the sustainable-transportation front. Streetsblog Chicago hands out the laurels.
8. The $12 Million Minute and Chicago’s Historic War on New Year’s Eve
As the clock struck midnight, Chicagoans used to go through immense quantities of champagne. But the city would soon quash the revelries. Chicago magazine recounts how and why the city turned on the new year.
9. What Happens to People With Autism When they Age Out of School?
Services can be strong for the 19,000 Illinois minors with autism. Once they’re adults, things get hard. WBEZ follows their paths.
10. New Year, New Laws in Illinois
Life for drivers gets easier in the new year, but don’t even think about picking up kratom or “N-bomb” again. Gapers Block introduces the changes.