Features The Downstater by Greg HinzSorting out the mysterious ways of Governor Jim Edgar – a clean-living country boy who hates Chicago. Or does he? Two Crains Runningby Nancy MillmanCrain Communications – the country’s 99th-biggest media empire – has thrived with “Mom” at the top. But what will happen when her sons take over? Robocubby … Read more
Features The Killing Fields by Rick SollAn ace West Side homicide squad copes with Chicago’s soaring murder rate – a firsthand report from the streets Triple Exposureby Mark JannotThis May, two uspstart fairs will compete with Art Expo for the hearts, minds, and dollars of the international art world. Scouting the Sports Guysby Shane TritschTheir … Read more
Features The New Singles by Gretchen ReynoldsThey’re richer and older, and in their search for a mate they’ve got great expectations. With a guide to groups where the single mingle Love Brokersby Mark JannotMatchmaking services are one way to play the dating game, and once you know what to look for, you can play to … Read more
Features Top Doctors by Richard LalichWe asked thousands of Chicago-area doctors and nurses to name outstanding local M.D.’s: Here’s what they told us. Plus, areas of excellence at major hospitals Daughter of the Revolutionby Joseph CrumpPlayboy CEO Christie Hefner juggles her father’s legacy with modern business realities – and brings order to a hedonistic world. … Read more
Features The Rising Significance of Race by Gretchen ReynoldsWilliam Julius Wilson helped set the national agenda and elect Bill Clinton with his theories on poverty and race. Now, at the height of his influence, there’s a small problem: He’s changed his mind. ‘Home’ Moviesby Richard LalichHow director and John Hughes protégé Chris Columbus discovered fame, … Read more
Features Critics’ Choice by Dennis Ray Wheaton, with Anne Spiselman, David Novick, and Allen H. KelsonOur annual roundup of the city’s most notable restaurants reveals an altered dining landscape. Plus: a special section with scores of great dishes, places, and people on the local dining scene Pier Pressureby Joseph CrumpThe design competition to rehab a … Read more
Features Behind the Braun Phenomenon by Gretchen ReynoldsSince winning the Democratic primary, Carol Moseley Braun has been the strong favorite in a potentially historic race. But who is she really? And does she have what it will take to win? The Gray Matterby Mark JannotEveryone was so sure Gerhard Casper would replace Hanna Gray as … Read more
Features What a Deal! by Leah Eskin, Libby Morse, and Dan SantowOur insider’s guide to off-price shopping explores some of the city’s lesser-known outlets and warehouses for designer clothing, fine housewares, and more. Plus, retail store sales, and what’s new at the outlet malls Presence of Mindsby Penelope MesicDr. Bennet Braun is one of the … Read more
Features The Player by Gretchen ReynoldsRaising money for Richard M. Daley is the hottest game in town, and for more than a decade, Paul Stepan had been top man in it. Then his luck started to turn. A Rahm for the Moneyby Mark JannotBill Clinton’s chief fund-raiser, Chicagoan Rahm Emanuel, may be too good for … Read more
Features Rx for a Troubled City The Great Flood and the Los Angeles riots were harsh reminders of the fragility of city life. Though Chicago seems to be soldiering forward with considerable aplomb, the problems ahead are enormous. We asked 20 prominent thinkers for advice on keeping the city on track. The Scapegoatby Dennis RodkinActing … Read more
