1. The Truth About Chicago’s Crime Rates: Part 2

Murder makes the headlines, but crimes like theft and assault are far more common in Chicago—are you more likely to be a victim than the police stats suggest? Chicago magazine investigates the overall decline in crime.

2. All Aboard, for a Trip to the Past

It takes 65 hours and 925 miles to go back in time on a train trip from Chicago to New Orleans. The New York Times rides Pullman Rail Journeys.

3. Rauner Parlays a Romney-Like Past in Illinois Governor’s Run

Will the veteran financier’s immense success in business help or hurt him? Bloomberg News compares Bruce Rauner to other titans turned public servants.

4. Chicagoist’s ‘Statistically Accurate’ List of the Best Restaurants in Chicago

Local and national sources disagree on the city’s finest food, so what happens if you use math to get a consensus? The local blog runs the numbers.

5. A Slow Start for Chicago Private Infrastructure Plan

The city’s Infrastructure Trust is supposed to be the future of public financing. So why is the future still so far off? The Associated Press checks in on the two-year-old program.

6. It’s Time to Stop Blaming the Workforce

Businesses and economists claim that a “skills gap” is keeping unprepared workers out of jobs. Not so fast. Crain’s examines new research that calls the gap into question.

7. Jackpot! Chicago’s Hold on Pinball Industry and Artistry

In a virtual world, Chicago is still the capital of the old game. Here’s how it happened. WBEZ traces the history of a classic pastime.

8. Rahm Is an Ass-Kicker—But Don’t Confuse His Personality With His Politics

The mayor is famous for his aggressive style, but when it comes to policy, he’s surprisingly moderate. Chicago magazine looks behind Rahmbo’s persona.

9. Black and Latino Areas Still Bearing the Brunt of City Job Cuts

As the city pares back on its workforce, it’s losing middle-class jobs in struggling neighborhoods. The Reader tallies the pink slips.

10. Study: Despite a New Law, Pot Arrests Are Still Likelier Than Fines

Ticketing marijuana users was supposed to cut down on time-consuming arrests, and raise money in the process. But few fines are being handed out. The Tribune asks why law enforcement is so slow to embrace the policy.