The 50 Most Powerful People in Chicago

By David Bernstein, Elly Fishman, Esther Kang, Penny Pollack, Matt Pollock, Carrie Schedler, Bryan Smith, and James Ylisela Jr.

Things have shaken up like never before in our annual list of the most influential Chicagoans. Starting at the top. Read more

Rahm Emanuel: Chicago’s Most Powerful (Barely)

By James Ylisela Jr.

Rahm Emanuel is still the most powerful person in Chicago—barely. Read more

Michael Madigan Is the King of Illinois

By James Ylisela Jr.

The Democrat has ruled the statehouse for decades. At age 71, he's as powerful as ever. But his latest moves make you wonder: What does Madigan really want? Read more

Mayor Daley's Bucket List: Ten Suggestions for How to Use the Remainder of His Term

By James Ylisela Jr.

EDITOR'S NOTE: On September 7th, Mayor Richard Daley announced in a brief news conference at City Hall that he will not seek re-election in 2011. The story below appears in our current issue. Read more

Playing Lardball

By James Ylisela, Jr.

Despite efforts of reformers, Cook County government remains larded with patronage jobs jealously guarded by clout-wielding bureaucrats. Identifying the problem is easy. Fixing it has proved maddeningly difficult. Read more

Under the Radar

By James Ylisela Jr.

The media-shy Yusef Jackson, third son of the famous reverend, takes a curious venture into publishing by pumping money into Radar, the on-again, off-again celebrity-driven magazine Read more

The Making of Jeff Fort

By Tom Brune and James Ylisela, Jr.

The most feared man in Chicago was once a shining figure of hope. But the road to jail is paved with good intentions. Read more

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