Long before becoming an acclaimed newspaper columnist, Mike Royko was a young airman secretly in love with a beautiful gal from his Northwest Side neighborhood. From afar, “Mick” began to pour out his feelings in a torrent of letters that ultimately won her heart. Discovered after his death, they show glimmers of the wit and voice that would one day distinguish Royko’s prose—and a romantic streak buried beneath the wise-guy exterior
People in Peoria still call him Kid Schock. The Illinois GOP calls him its great hope
Barack Obama’s presidential campaign collected more cash than any other candidate in U.S. history—an eye-popping $742 million. It spent all but $30 million of it. But where did it all go? Here’s an accounting.
February 2009: Carol Felsenthal, Robert Loerzel, Jeff Ruby, Shane Tritsch, Michael Camarra, Mara Tapp
In February’s letters: dad’s view, swords, missing a job, O-verexposure, breakfast, and a would-be nonissue
Cover Story The Making of a First Lady by Carol Felsenthal She’s got the drive to do good and do well. Michelle Obama grew up in a close-knit South Side family, conquered the Ivy League, and finally got with Barack’s program. Next she stars as First Lady. Features Action Heroes by Robert Loerzel and Jeff … Read more
Five in-the-moment recommendations from Matt Rucins, the talent buyer at Schubas and the brain behind the pop music festival Tomorrow Never Knows, which starts Jan. 14th. schubas.com
Thinking he had nothing more serious than a persistent cold, Doug Waldron put off seeing his doctor. When he finally sought help, he was told that he had about a month to live. Two and a half years later, he’s fought through two cancers, diabetes, and a heart attack, but now he’s feeling fine
Medical experts answer more than two dozen key questions—about second opinions, clinical trials, the limitations of insurance, and other significant topics—to help patients map a road to recovery
Introducing our seven Chicagoans of the Year for 2008: a concerned mom, a neighborhood activist, a pair of dance makers, an altruistic chef, a Bronzeville historian, and a soulful singer with a voice for the ages.
