Chicago magazine's October issue hits newsstands Thursday, September 13th. To schedule an interview with one of our writers or editors, please contact Allison Roche at aroche@chicagomag.com.

Fall Culture Guide (cover story) – Fall is prime time for Chicago’s culture scene and this season is particularly packed with entertainment gems you won’t want to miss—including a Broadway-bound musical, an art blockbuster, and first-class concerts—but where should you begin? Our Fall Culture Guide provides the starting point, with critics’ picks for 45 must-sees in seven categories, covering everything from theatre and music to film and TV. Make the most of our city’s cultural offerings with this in-the-know guide to the most worthwhile new plays and performances, the best forthcoming books and movies with Chicago ties, and the coolest art shows opening soon.  

Silicon Prairie Redux – After years of hype and hope, Chicago appears to finally be building a thriving tech sector. Venture capital funding for startups has increased and a record 193 tech companies were launched in the area last year, five times as many as in 2008. But does this mini boom have staying power? Plus: a breakdown of Chicago’s tech ecosystem and three local startups to watch.

Dark Days – Once one of the most promising politicians in the nation, Jesse Jackson Jr. has seen his career go horribly wrong—marked most recently by his mysterious disappearance and the revelation that he’s suffering from bipolar depression. Our in-depth profile asks: What happened to Junior?

Lovable Losers – They have a cute mascot, a historic stadium that sells out even in slumping seasons, and it’s been decades since the team’s glory days—have the Fighting Irish become the Cubs of college football? The comparison may become eerie when Notre Dame plays Miami in Chicago on October 6 (at Soldier Field). 

Let Me Drink Cake – Liquor-laced desserts are popping up on menus all over town, but is it possible to actually get a buzz from these sweets? With breathalyzer in hand, we assess the potency of five boozy desserts.

Insiders Guide: Wicker Park – Rediscover Wicker Park with our picks for the neighborhood’s latest top spots and upcoming events.