The Big Party

FROM JULY 2009: After launching the Playboy empire here in the 1950s, Hugh Hefner turned Chicago into a frontline of the sexual revolution, acting out his sybaritic fantasy life behind the walls of his mansion on North State Parkway. But as the freewheeling sixties gave way to the decadent seventies, things changed drastically for Hefner and the Gold Coast mansion he called home

Chicago Guide: Petersen and Pizza

Sometimes this city serves up an embarrassment of riches. This week: William Petersen returns—with free beer … Daniel Burnham appears onstage (in spirit) … indie rock icons toast a local lit legend … bicyclists get a gospel revival—and a midnight ride … and much more

Twice as Nice

This week only! The Ten: double-dip pairings of top-notch concerts (and one musical flick), each featuring one suburban and one city option. Now, get out there and pursue happiness with these don’t-miss events for the week of 07.01.09 through 07.06.09 …