Ben Joravsky Interviews: Inside Chicago Government

6/13/13: "The madness behind Mayor Emanuel's methods"

dave@chigov.com (Inside Chicago Government) — Mon, 17 Jun 2013 20:35:00 CDT

Who really pulls the mayor's strings; why the CTU gave up its former practice of cutting a deal with the administration; and where some of the best reporting in Chicago currently comes from. Length 13.9 minutes.

6/6/13: "How Mayor Emanuel locked the parking meter deal in place"

dave@chigov.com (Inside Chicago Government) — Wed, 12 Jun 2013 15:34:00 CDT

Why other journalists don't report on the city's contradictory stance; the mayor's clear message that investors can still buy city assets; and the fallacy that Chicago will save on future meter true-up costs. Length 14.9 minutes.

5/30/13: "Rahm's new TIF program looks a lot like the old TIF program"

dave@chigov.com (Inside Chicago Government) — Thu, 06 Jun 2013 15:10:00 CDT

How the General Assembly's "ladies of the lake" resisted pork; the mayor's interference in the free market of property development; and who owns the property on the land where the city wants to build an arena. Length 16 minutes.

5/23/13: "Rahm's latest plan: close the schools, build an arena"

dave@chigov.com (Inside Chicago Government) — Thu, 30 May 2013 00:05:00 CDT

How an almost-dead TIF district can rob from its younger neighbor; what makes the arena/hotel plan a tax-losing proposition; and Mayor Daley's last-minute raid on the area's TIF funds. Length 18.3 minutes.

5/16/13: "Mayor Emanuel's FOIA policy: don't ask because we won't tell"

dave@chigov.com (Inside Chicago Government) — Wed, 22 May 2013 14:49:00 CDT

CPS's statutory obligation to retain policy-related records; whether the Emanuel or the Daley administration responded better to records requests; and the chances of aldermanic efforts to strengthen the inspector general. Length 13.5 minutes.

5/9/13: "The school model that's good enough for Pres. Obama and Mayor Emanuel"

dave@chigov.com (Inside Chicago Government) — Fri, 17 May 2013 17:33:00 CDT

How one might get one's kids into the Lab School; why Lab teachers didn't join the Chicago Teachers Union; and whether Mayor Emanuel and others involved in school policy should explain why their kids don't attend public school. Length 18.1 minutes.

5/2/13: "In the Chicago public schools, promises are made to be broken"

dave@chigov.com (Inside Chicago Government) — Tue, 07 May 2013 22:33:00 CDT

How Lincoln Park H.S.'s diverse set of programs created an integrated student body; parents' perception of the International Baccalaureate "brand"; and when the mayor chooses to supercede a contract. Length 11.9 minutes.

4/25/13: "Welcome to U.S. Cellular Field, home of the sweetheart deal"

dave@chigov.com (Inside Chicago Government) — Mon, 06 May 2013 22:10:00 CDT

The multiple freebies and discounts the Sox organization gets while using the ballpark; the nobility of rainmaker Gov. Thompson; and whether the White Sox could survive financially without taxpayer subsidies. Length 14 minutes.

4/11/13: "The lessons of Jane Byrne"

dave@chigov.com (Inside Chicago Government) — Mon, 15 Apr 2013 21:30:00 CDT

Mayor Bilandic's disregard for black voters; a clear contrast in Mayor Emanuel's treatment of black and white constituencies; and citizens' attitudes about government polices based on their distance from the destructive impact. Length 15.8 minutes.

4/4/13: "The crowded classroom approach to fixing schools"

dave@chigov.com (Inside Chicago Government) — Wed, 10 Apr 2013 12:00:00 CDT

How a crowded school with low-income students can perform well; how the administration has transformed its school-closing message; and who closing schools evolved from decades-old segregation. Length 14.1 minutes.

3/28/13: "Before the schools, Mayor Emanuel closed the clinics"

dave@chigov.com (Inside Chicago Government) — Mon, 01 Apr 2013 16:31:00 CDT

Overcrowding at the city's remaining mental health clinics; the worst time to remove mental health services for Chicago's kids; and how aldermen cling to a greater power. Length 15.5 minutes.

3/21/13: "Chicago Public Schools officials offer a lesson in confiscating books"

dave@chigov.com (Inside Chicago Government) — Wed, 27 Mar 2013 01:11:00 CDT

At what age adults should let kids read violently or sexually explicit books; CPS curriculum professionals undermined by CPS administrators; and CPS's previous book purge. Length 16.5 minutes.

3/14/13: "Charities drowning in city water fees"

dave@chigov.com (Inside Chicago Government) — Mon, 18 Mar 2013 21:23:00 CDT

The fact or fiction of quorums in City Council committees; the lack of enlightened debate before the council enacts laws; and the repeated fall of so-called reform candidates for City Council. Length 19.8 minutes.

3/7/13: "Waiting for the day of judgment from Mayor Emanuel"

dave@chigov.com (Inside Chicago Government) — Tue, 12 Mar 2013 14:48:00 CDT

Taking advantage of the opportunity arising from falling enrollment; the city's education response to changing demographics; and how aldermen who talk tough on school closings could really cause problems for the mayor. Length 16.2 minutes.

2/28/13: "Chicago's BFF's a legislator from Waukegan"

dave@chigov.com (Inside Chicago Government) — Tue, 05 Mar 2013 23:14:00 CST

Why the public should allow taxing bodies to increase their tax take each year; checking Ald. O'Connor's argument about the benefit of tax-increment financing to the board of education budget; and the public school system as an investor in TIF. Length 15.6 minutes.

2/21/13: "Where good legislation goes to die"

dave@chigov.com (Inside Chicago Government) — Wed, 27 Feb 2013 19:48:00 CST

How aldermen might thwart efforts to bury their legislation in the rules committee; why the powerful, seemingly in opposition, support each other; and aldermen who have reserved their check on mayoral power for Chicago's only elected black mayor. Length 11.3 minutes.

2/14/13: "Good luck finding the documents that explain CPS's longer school day"

dave@chigov.com (Inside Chicago Government) — Mon, 18 Feb 2013 19:48:00 CST

Why the public should care any more about the issue of a longer school day; administering city government by press release and press conference; and getting information from government more easily than via FOIA requests. Length 13.5 minutes.

1/31/13: "Mayor Emanuel swears he's not interested in running for president"

dave@chigov.com (Inside Chicago Government) — Tue, 05 Feb 2013 18:37:00 CST

The narrative that Rahm Emanuel perpetuates; the impact of Emanuel's aspirations on how Chicago government operates; and Chicago's brief, four-year experiment with democracy. Length 12 minutes.

1/24/13: "The Chicago manual of school closings"

dave@chigov.com (Inside Chicago Government) — Tue, 29 Jan 2013 22:27:00 CST

Renaissance 2010 as the basis for charter schools in poor neighborhoods; the main reasons for the depopulation of public schools; and who doesn't send their kids to charters. Length 16.8 minutes.

1/17/13: "The last of the independents"

dave@chigov.com (Inside Chicago Government) — Wed, 23 Jan 2013 00:03:00 CST

What might have undermined a potential 2007 JJJ mayoral campaign; how constituents exercise authority over elected officials who don't show up for work; and term limits vs. truly alternative candidates. Length 15.3 minutes.

1/10/13: "Keeping up with the Jones High School Plans"

dave@chigov.com (Inside Chicago Government) — Wed, 16 Jan 2013 21:58:00 CST

What constitutes a selective enrollment school; what the old Jones Commercial High School provided that no CPS school does today; and the long-term wisdom of selling off school property. Length 11.8 minutes.

1/3/13: "ICE, CME, and TIFs"

dave@chigov.com (Inside Chicago Government) — Wed, 09 Jan 2013 17:27:00 CST

An unexpected rebuttal to Mayor Emanuel; the proposed state legislation to tax financial transactions and where it went; and an industry dedicated to the elimination of jobs. Length 10.3 minutes.

7/21/11: "Public schools, private budgets"

dave@chigov.com (Inside Chicago Government) — Sun, 23 Dec 2012 16:24:00 CST

The disparity in availability of charter vs. neighborhood school financial data; why CPS finally put payroll information on-line; and the downside of Freedom of Information Act requests. Length 8.5 minutes.

12/13/12: "Taxation by obfuscation"

dave@chigov.com (Inside Chicago Government) — Sat, 15 Dec 2012 01:46:00 CST

What, exactly, CivicLab will reveal about tax-increment financing districts; why the printed Cook County property tax bill doesn't include tax info available on the county's Web site; and how tax-increment financing raises your taxes even if you don't live in a TIF district. Length 9.3 minutes.

12/6/12: "A Development in Sheep's Clothing"

dave@chigov.com (Inside Chicago Government) — Tue, 11 Dec 2012 01:46:00 CST

New lows in veracity in the age of Rahm; adding transit and restricting cars as part of private land development; and the difference between Prentice Hospital and Wolf Point. Length 17.8 minutes.

11/29/12: "Rahm's Addition by Subtraction Approach to Jobs"

dave@chigov.com (Inside Chicago Government) — Sun, 02 Dec 2012 01:28:00 CST

What happened to the Emanuel administration's attempt to cut a deal with Ald. Sawyer; the neighborhoods in which the mayor feels most wary of political opposition; and how we teach critical thinking about democracy. Length 12.1 minutes.

11/22/12: "United Generously Returns Taxpayer Subsidy It Was Required to Return Anyway"

dave@chigov.com (Inside Chicago Government) — Wed, 28 Nov 2012 22:55:00 CST

Where United's return of taxpayer subsidy will go; the story behind the $34 million TIF "return" of 2011; and Mayor Harold Washington, the father of Chicago TIF. Length 11.9 minutes.

11/8/12: "To Mayor Emanuel, Some Jobs Are Worth More than Others"

dave@chigov.com (Inside Chicago Government) — Tue, 13 Nov 2012 01:03:00 CST

What happens when black aldermen's constituents rebel; possible effects of the city council holding hearings on privatization deals; and the best strategy for the water-billing workers' union. Length 15.3 minutes.

11/1/12: "The Public Weighs in While the Mayor Skips Out"

dave@chigov.com (Inside Chicago Government) — Wed, 07 Nov 2012 18:45:00 CST

Mayor Daley's legacy of public budget meetings carried on by progressive aldermen; how and why ward remapping disposes of certain aldermen; and why aldermen should vote against the mayor's proposed 2013 budget, and who might. Length 15.8 minutes.

10/25/12: "Whatever Happened to Story Time?"

dave@chigov.com (Inside Chicago Government) — Sun, 28 Oct 2012 22:29:00 CDT

The expectation that kindergarten will teach students to read; why Illinois didn't receive federal Race to the Top funds; and Diane Ravitch's historical perspective of school performance. Length 14.5 minutes.

10/11/12: "How the Democrats Let Derrick Smith Shoot Them in the Foot"

dave@chigov.com (Inside Chicago Government) — Sun, 21 Oct 2012 00:59:00 CDT

Jesse White's staggering miscalculations around legislative appointments; how poorly the West Side's political leaders serve it; and comparing Rep. Smith to former Gov. Blagojevich. Length 14.9 minutes.

10/4/12: "Today's Lesson: Charters Do Not Outperform Unionized Schools"

dave@chigov.com (Inside Chicago Government) — Sat, 06 Oct 2012 23:20:00 CDT

Standardized testing as a barometer of what a student needs to know; whether unionization factors into student performance; and whether teacher tenure actually exists. Length 11.1 minutes.

9/20/12: "The Last Democracy in Chicago?"

dave@chigov.com (Inside Chicago Government) — Mon, 01 Oct 2012 15:30:00 CDT

The mistake of separating teachers from the union representing them; the Chicago Teachers Union ripe for criticism; and how the board of education has broken contractual agreements. Length 13.5 minutes.

9/13/12: "Why Chicago Teachers Hate Rahm"

dave@chigov.com (Inside Chicago Government) — Wed, 19 Sep 2012 15:25:00 CDT

How at-home investigators can analyze Chicago Public Schools payroll; one of the phoniest issues in the education debate; and why South Side teachers might not want to end the strike. Length 15.2 minutes.

9/6/12: "With Democrats Like These, Who Needs Republicans?"

dave@chigov.com (Inside Chicago Government) — Sun, 09 Sep 2012 16:05:00 CDT

The possible collusion between former Pres. Bush and former Mayor Daley; the normalization of Alderman Joe Moore; and predictions on whether Chicago teachers will strike. Length 16 minutes.

8/30/12: "Akins in Our Midst"

dave@chigov.com (Inside Chicago Government) — Wed, 05 Sep 2012 23:29:00 CDT

The surprising requirements of state law for sex education; when not to blame voters for bad election results; and the People's Rights Amendment. Length 11.9 minutes.

8/16/12: "Prentice Preservationists Put Rahm in a Bind"

dave@chigov.com (Inside Chicago Government) — Wed, 05 Sep 2012 00:16:00 CDT

A rundown of the members of the Commission on Chicago Landmarks; the most rubber-stamp-like body in city government; and the public expense for saving Prentice. Length 15.2 minutes.

8/9/12: "The Grow House Next Door"

dave@chigov.com (Inside Chicago Government) — Wed, 22 Aug 2012 00:39:00 CDT

The two forms of justice; why prosecutors stay tight-lipped; and what made this a hard story to write. Length 9.5 minutes.

8/2/12: "Say It Ain't So, Joe"

dave@chigov.com (Inside Chicago Government) — Tue, 07 Aug 2012 16:05:00 CDT

Why the mayor controls who chairs city council committees; Ben's defense of Alderman Moore; and an elected school board--a bad idea? Length 13.8 minutes.

7/19/12: "As the Slush Fund Shrinks, the Mayor Dips In Anyway"

dave@chigov.com (Inside Chicago Government) — Wed, 25 Jul 2012 13:46:00 CDT

Why property taxes go up when property values go down; how taxing bodies come up with the tax levy; and the different ways of structuring a tax-increment financing deal. Length 10.3 minutes.

7/5/12: "How Chicago Said Yes to Pot"

dave@chigov.com (Inside Chicago Government) — Wed, 18 Jul 2012 23:01:00 CDT

Whether Chicago police will start ticketing more white marijuana users; what'll come next in Mick and Ben's marijuana-law reporting; and the schizophrenia of American marijuana laws. Length 6 minutes.

7/5/12: "The Rahmney Plan for Schools"

dave@chigov.com (Inside Chicago Government) — Sun, 15 Jul 2012 22:26:00 CDT

The game of comparing schools via test scores; the Democratic Party's drift toward charter schools; and why Mayor Emanuel wants a teachers' strike. Length 10.9 minutes.

6/28/12: "The Mayor's Millionaire Club, Part II"

dave@chigov.com (Inside Chicago Government) — Mon, 09 Jul 2012 01:08:00 CDT

When Mayor Emanuel acts in opposition to his conservative leanings; whether city officials' planning conversations should remain confidential; and the mysterious CME Group meeting. Length 12.5 minutes.

6/7/12: "It's No Foxie Brown: Mayor Emanuel Makes a TIF Movie"

dave@chigov.com (Inside Chicago Government) — Wed, 06 Jun 2012 22:06:00 CDT

What might've motivated the Emanuel administration to make the TIF video; how the administration has done on meeting the goals identified by the mayor's TIF task force; and Ben's rebuttal video. Length 11.8 minutes.

5/24/12: "Summits Come and Go, but the Mayor's Handouts Never End"

dave@chigov.com (Inside Chicago Government) — Thu, 31 May 2012 00:09:00 CDT

Whether the city still doesn't check on the jobs pledges of TIF-fund recipients; what sort of central business district investments make the most sense; and the surprising bastions of unionism. Length 14.4 minutes.

5/10/12: "Mayor Emanuel's Dumping Ground?"

dave@chigov.com (Inside Chicago Government) — Sat, 12 May 2012 00:23:00 CDT

Why border-situated land owners can have their land transferred to a suburb; whether landfills necessarily make for obnoxious neighbors; and Mayor Emanuel's calculus. Length 9.4 minutes.

4/26/12: "The Stand-Up Guy"

dave@chigov.com (Inside Chicago Government) — Sun, 29 Apr 2012 20:58:00 CDT

Who voted against the mayor's proposed infrastructure trust and why; why the early infrastructure trust investors might have gotten involved; and how the city council might end up voting on certain unique infrastructure deals. Length 12.4 minutes.

4/12/12: "The Mayor Has Big Plans for the City's Infrastructure"

dave@chigov.com (Inside Chicago Government) — Wed, 18 Apr 2012 01:21:00 CDT

Whether the proposed infrastructure trust must actually comply with Freedom of Information Act regulations; how the trust resembles other mayoral proposals; and why some aldermen seem to have rebelled. Length 12.4 minutes.

3/29/12: "How Rahm Emanuel Can 'Save' the Schools"

dave@chigov.com (Inside Chicago Government) — Tue, 03 Apr 2012 20:17:00 CDT

What Mayor Emanuel knows about the school system or, for that matter, the city; why the mayor won't back down regarding a one-size-fits-all longer school day; and how Chicago Public Schools would find the funding for a longer school day. Length 7.7 minutes.

3/15/12: "What's Really Going On in the Primary Elections"

dave@chigov.com (Inside Chicago Government) — Mon, 19 Mar 2012 15:50:00 CDT

A state legislative district primer; the drama behind the mayor's endorsement in the 39th state rep district; and Ben's picks in the state Supreme Court primary. Length 10 minutes.

3/1/12: "My Property Tax Bill Is Defective--I Want a Refund"

dave@chigov.com (Inside Chicago Government) — Wed, 07 Mar 2012 00:27:00 CST

How local government has already lost money on the NATO summit; a look at an older, and maybe better, form of Chicago school board; and a way to decrease reliance on property taxes. Length 8.1 minutes.

2/23/12: "The Reader Goes to Charter School"

dave@chigov.com (Inside Chicago Government) — Wed, 29 Feb 2012 16:00:00 CST

How Ben and Mick ended up at a UNO school; why charters don't pay their teachers more; and why charters might reject the "public school" label. Length 5.2 minutes.

2/16/12: "Your NATO/G8 Primer"

dave@chigov.com (Inside Chicago Government) — Mon, 27 Feb 2012 17:12:00 CST

The appropriateness of World Business Chicago controlling a major city event; distinguishing WBC from a chamber of commerce; and whether the city council's revocation of its contract-approval power goes beyond the NATO/G8 summit. Length 6.2 minutes.

2/2/12: "With Library Cuts, Emanuel Turns the Page Backward"

dave@chigov.com (Inside Chicago Government) — Tue, 07 Feb 2012 01:57:00 CST

Why librarians have to work six days per week; whether library cuts really have to do with finance; and why Mary Dempsey has no peer in the Emanuel administration. Length 9.5 minutes.

1/19/12: "State Tax Break for the Merc Is More Laughable with Each Passing Day"

dave@chigov.com (Inside Chicago Government) — Tue, 24 Jan 2012 21:49:00 CST

Origin of the mythology around CME Group's tax-burden claim; the possible fairness of CME Group's existing income taxes; and trying to calculate the economic benefit per job. Length 9.5 minutes.

12/29/11: "And the Reward for Achievement in Local Politics Goes To . . ."

dave@chigov.com (Inside Chicago Government) — Mon, 09 Jan 2012 15:47:00 CST

The awards that didn't make the cut; how politics differs from government; and the benefits of having a backbone vis a vis Ald. Sposato's approval of a zoning change for a planned charter school. Length 9.9 minutes.

12/15/11: "All I Want for Christmas Is a City Council with a Backbone"

dave@chigov.com (Inside Chicago Government) — Mon, 19 Dec 2011 19:29:00 CST

Veteran aldermen who might not have voted for the mayor's budget proposal; what influenced the "turned" aldermen; and whether term limits' time has come. Length 9.6 minutes.

12/8/11: "How Clout Raised an Uptown TIF Deal From the Dead"

dave@chigov.com (Inside Chicago Government) — Mon, 12 Dec 2011 11:43:00 CST

A list of "blighted" suburbs that have TIF districts; defining the model TIF subsidy; and when letting property run down has more value than keeping it up. Length 10.6 minutes.

12/1/11: "The Politics of Pot"

dave@chigov.com (Inside Chicago Government) — Fri, 09 Dec 2011 00:13:00 CST

Comparing Mayor Emanuel's control of the marijuana issue with Mayor Daley's control of a smoking ban; Ben predicts the future of marijuana laws; and problems with the Sun-Times' recent series on marijuana. Length 8.3 minutes.

11/24/11: "As Mayor Emanuel Cuts, His Hometown Shows How to Invest in a Library"

dave@chigov.com (Inside Chicago Government) — Tue, 06 Dec 2011 00:12:00 CST

How Ben justifies a comparison of Wilmette and Rogers Park; how Chicago could invest more in libraries, rather than cut their budget; and a redundant grocery store in Greektown. Length 9 minutes.

11/17/11: "Senator Kirk Claims That Chicago's Top High Schools Are Charters, but That Doesn't Mean It's True"

dave@chigov.com (Inside Chicago Government) — Sun, 20 Nov 2011 21:21:00 CST

Deficiencies of Chicago Public Schools' new report card on school performance; when Ben acted a cheerleader for charter schools; and panicked parents gaming the selective enrollment process. Length 9.5 minutes.

11/10/11: "Water + Sewers = Slush Fund"

dave@chigov.com (Inside Chicago Government) — Sun, 13 Nov 2011 01:26:00 CST

A beginner's guide to the city's budget document; the myth that city government can continue without raising fees and taxes; and the king of deceptive budgeting. Length 8.5 minutes.

10/27/11: "The Mayor's Millionaire Club"

dave@chigov.com (Inside Chicago Government) — Fri, 20 Jan 2012 11:15:00 CST

How this article differs from much of what Ben writes; how Mayor Emanuel deals with reporters; and contrasting Rahm Emanuel and Richard M. daley. Length 6.3 minutes.

10/27/11: "What to Tell an Alderman Who Fibs to You About TIFs"

dave@chigov.com (Inside Chicago Government) — Sat, 05 Nov 2011 11:11:00 CDT

The first step for true reform of the city's budget process; the bait-and-switch game of raiding TIF reserves; and why TIF works well as a subject for an Occupy Chicago speech. Length 6.5 minutes.

9/29/11: "Wake Up, Chicago Teachers Union"

dave@chigov.com (Inside Chicago Government) — Thu, 10 Nov 2011 22:28:00 CST

Origins of black patronage at Chicago Public Schools HQ; when new clout replaces old clout; and what causes the electorate to rise up. Length 8.2 minutes.

9/2/11: "Mayor Emanuel's Guide to Union Busting: Just Do it for the Kids"

dave@chigov.com (Inside Chicago Government) — Fri, 14 Oct 2011 20:10:00 CDT

What Mayor Emanuel's decision to send his kids to a private school says; recognizing students' developmental disparities as "making excuses" for public schools; and what makes a great Chicago public school. Length 10.2 minutes.

9/8/11: "Mayor Emanuel May Be Breaking Budget Promises, but at Least He's Not Mayor What's-His-Name"

dave@chigov.com (Inside Chicago Government) — Mon, 12 Sep 2011 23:03:00 CDT

Why Mayor Emanuel's tax-increment financing reform doesn't constitute reform; Congressman Quigley's disappointing support of Emanuel's reform; and why former Mayor Daley had a more democratic approach to public input. Length 8.9 minutes.

9/1/11: "Wrigley Funding Scheme Is Another Cub Loser"

dave@chigov.com (Inside Chicago Government) — Fri, 09 Sep 2011 21:12:00 CDT

A review of government subsidies to Chicago's major-league sports teams; the contradiction inherent in removing, then replacing, property-tax revenues for public schools; and how the proposed longer school day results in a teacher pay cut. Length 6.3 minutes.

8/18/11: "The Teacher Who Was Punished Indefinitely for Being Laid Off Once"

dave@chigov.com (Inside Chicago Government) — Wed, 31 Aug 2011 00:28:00 CDT

Whether Chicago Public Schools' do-not-hire practices have changed under Supt. Brizard; how to change CPS's illogical policies; and how do-not-hire resembles tax-increment financing. Length 5.1 minutes.

8/4/11: "Mayor Emanuel Does the TIF Reform Dance"

dave@chigov.com (Inside Chicago Government) — Thu, 11 Aug 2011 13:27:00 CDT

Removing services for the poor as a gentrifying force; why TIF district creators exclude gentrifying areas; and getting beyond the fiction that TIF doesn't divert revenues from Chicagoland's taxing bodies. Length 10 minutes.

7/28/11: "Blogger Crusades Against Education 'Reformers'"

dave@chigov.com (Inside Chicago Government) — Thu, 04 Aug 2011 12:39:00 CDT

Whether teachers' 75 percent minimum membership requirement for a strike vote hobbles their union; holding students accountable for their poor performance; and teacher accountability as a bandage on society's economic disparities. Length 8.5 minutes.

7/14/11: "Mayoral Progress Report: There's Room for Improvement"

dave@chigov.com (Inside Chicago Government) — Mon, 18 Jul 2011 14:32:00 CDT

Whether voters want a strong mayor--for other people; summer as a voter aphrodisiac; and the mayor as an expert in spectacle. Length 6.7 minutes.

7/7/11: "The Grass Gap"

dave@chigov.com (Inside Chicago Government) — Fri, 08 Jul 2011 16:01:00 CDT

The double standard that marijuana laws reinforce; making the police superintendent sound smart; and the clever composition ability of police officers. Length 5.5 minutes.

6/30/11: "How a CPS Teacher Went from 'Excellent' to 'Do-Not-Hire' in One Year"

dave@chigov.com (Inside Chicago Government) — Fri, 01 Jul 2011 18:53:00 CDT

What lies behind the motive to get rid of teachers; how Chicago can recruit better teachers in the face of "do not hire" designations and pay cuts; and how the free market encourages teachers to leave Chicago. Length 9.5 minutes.

6/16/11: "Uptown Turns Down a TIF Deal--For the Moment"

dave@chigov.com (Inside Chicago Government) — Fri, 17 Jun 2011 16:56:00 CDT

The difference between a tax-increment financing district's budget and the amount of tax dollars it diverts; whether the park district could more easily implement a capital project via regular budgeting or tax-increment financing; and the last major elected official to call a corporation's relocation bluff. Length 9.3 minutes.

6/9/11: "As Daley Cashes In, Ousted Teacher Gets Cut Off"

dave@chigov.com (Inside Chicago Government) — Fri, 10 Jun 2011 20:38:00 CDT

How Chicago Public Schools handle the re-applications of teachers in turnaround schools; the link between turnaround schools and cutting well-paid teachers; and expulsion: a teaching tool, or a convenient way to boost performance scores? Length 9.7 minutes.

6/2/11: "Charter School Fights Teacher Organizing-and 'Public School' Label"

dave@chigov.com (Inside Chicago Government) — Sat, 04 Jun 2011 16:47:00 CDT

How public school students get into particular high schools; why the state's board didn't enforce the law; and the effect on union organizing of federal versus state jurisdiction. Length 6.5 minutes.

5/26/11: "The 20 Months That Made Mayor Emanuel"

dave@chigov.com (Inside Chicago Government) — Sat, 28 May 2011 00:47:00 CDT

What didn't make it into the timeline; the evidence for the manipulation of Carol Moseley Braun; and the list of candidates who might've beat Mayor Daley. Length 6.7 minutes.

5/12/11: "Twilight Zoning in the 43rd Ward"

dave@chigov.com (Inside Chicago Government) — Sat, 21 May 2011 18:00:00 CDT

The 43rd-27th ward boundary gerrymandered for racial purity; how the city changes property zoning; and why Mayor Emanuel apparently has immediate control of the City Council. Length 10.5 minutes.

5/5/11: "An Open Letter to Our Next Schools Chief"

dave@chigov.com (Inside Chicago Government) — Fri, 06 May 2011 15:40:00 CDT

Why using tax-increment financing to build new schools works against the school system's interests; whether tax-increment financing affects where and when to build new schools; and imagining an elected school board. Length 8.3 minutes.

4/28/11: "TIF Gifts Just Keep on Giving"

dave@chigov.com (Inside Chicago Government) — Mon, 02 May 2011 14:29:00 CDT

Alternatives to tax-increment financing of well-endowed institutions; whether the city should spend TIF money on both the relocation of Finkl Steel and the redevelopment of its old site; and digging into increased funding of the Garfield Park TIF district. Length 9.3 minutes.

4/14/11: "Stacking the Odds in Favor of Charter Schools"

dave@chigov.com (Inside Chicago Government) — Mon, 18 Apr 2011 00:53:00 CDT

Why charter schools' ability to get rid of troublesome kids invalidates comparisons with non-charters; whether non-charters should have this same ability; and what level of unionization signals the demise of charters in Chicago. Length 8.5 minutes.

4/7/11: "Racial Migration in the Strangest Locations"

dave@chigov.com (Inside Chicago Government) — Mon, 11 Apr 2011 00:22:00 CDT

The different dynamics of black and Hispanic migration into wards; how moderating a candidate debate differs from interviewing candidates; and Ald. Stone's persistent denial of ward gerrymandering. Length 8.4 minutes.

3/31/11: "Ben Joravsky's Guide to the Aldermanic Runoffs"

dave@chigov.com (Inside Chicago Government) — Fri, 01 Apr 2011 19:30:00 CDT

Why Ben moderates aldermanic candidate debates; how ranked-choice voting (RCV) works; and whether Chicago could use RCV in municipal elections. Length 7.9 minutes.

3/17/11: "Getting Along Without Him Now"

dave@chigov.com (Inside Chicago Government) — Fri, 18 Mar 2011 17:18:00 CDT

The difference between magnet, charter, and selective-enrollment schools; how state senator Steans' bill essentially deregulates charter schools; and Rahm Emanuel's crush on New York City's education model. Length 8.8 minutes.

3/10/11: "Rickey Hendon: A Loud Act to Follow"

dave@chigov.com (Inside Chicago Government) — Sat, 12 Mar 2011 22:09:00 CST

Why people outside the 5th Illinois senate district should care about Rickey Hendon; the argument for office-holders like Hendon staying in office; and who really will decide on Hendon's successor. Length 9.9 minutes.

3/3/11: "From the Alley to the Council"

dave@chigov.com (Inside Chicago Government) — Fri, 04 Mar 2011 22:28:00 CST

What inspires Chicagoans to want to learn about their government; the mayoral voting habits of white people; and the subconscious guilt of white voters. Length 8.9 minutes.

2/24/11: "Carving Time Approaches"

dave@chigov.com (Inside Chicago Government) — Sun, 27 Feb 2011 15:09:00 CST

A look into the back rooms where aldermen negotiate the remaps of wards; Mayor Emanuel's participation in ward remapping; and the history of and need for supermajority wards. Length 10 minutes.

2/17/11: "Aldermania!"

dave@chigov.com (Inside Chicago Government) — Wed, 23 Feb 2011 12:49:00 CST

A short history of near-West-Side ward remapping; what Ben would have written about Rahm Emanuel before the election; and why Ben wants voters to stop whining. Length 8.1 minutes.

2/3/11: "Sic 'Em"

dave@chigov.com (Inside Chicago Government) — Thu, 03 Feb 2011 16:15:00 CST

Which takes more effort: informing candidates about outstanding debts, or contesting their eligibility; whether we should let deadbeats and scofflaws run for public office; and whether overdue library books can keep you off the ballot. Length 7.8 minutes.

1/27/11: "Mr. Nice Guy"

dave@chigov.com (Inside Chicago Government) — Sun, 30 Jan 2011 17:42:00 CST

Who Rahm Emanuel talked out of running for mayor; the relationship between Miguel del Valle and Luis Gutierrez; and how del Valle has responded to Daley administration corruption. Length 10 minutes.

1/20/11: "Chico and the Man"

dave@chigov.com (Inside Chicago Government) — Thu, 20 Jan 2011 19:06:00 CST

Gery Chico's single greatest success with public schools; how Chicago's elimination of social promotion came back to haunt Chico; and whether the Reader's coverage of mayoral campaigns has changed. Length 8.8 minutes.

12/16/10: "How Did We Get to 12,500?"

dave@chigov.com (Inside Chicago Government) — Thu, 16 Dec 2010 17:28:00 CST

How the Chicago Board of Elections originally determined the number of nominating signatures needed; what nominating-signature system Ben favors; and whether Rahm Emanuel has "machine" backing. Length 8.2 minutes.

12/2/10: "The Merc's Manual"

dave@chigov.com (Inside Chicago Government) — Fri, 03 Dec 2010 09:07:00 CST

Tax-increment financing's cloak of invisibility; how developers justify public subsidies; and how a proposed affordable-housing ordinance could rob funding from public schools. Length 8.9 minutes.

11/25/10: "Do the Math"

dave@chigov.com (Inside Chicago Government) — Sun, 28 Nov 2010 21:53:00 CST

How Cook County's property tax system pacifies the public; who or what should carry the cost of government; and which Illinois party has the right idea about taxes. Length 6.1 minutes.

11/18/10: "The Poor Pay Again"

dave@chigov.com (Inside Chicago Government) — Thu, 18 Nov 2010 21:12:00 CST

How TIF subsidies attract development investors; whether a neighborhood's regular infrastructure upkeep depends on its inclusion in a TIF district; and a teaser for next week. Length 7.8 minutes.

11/11/10: "Whittier: What Fanned the Flames"

dave@chigov.com (Inside Chicago Government) — Thu, 11 Nov 2010 18:50:00 CST

How local school councils came about; why Mayor Daley eviscerated local school control; and what happens when public schools lack clout. Length 9 minutes.

10/28/10: "The Practical Party"

dave@chigov.com (Inside Chicago Government) — Sat, 30 Oct 2010 17:57:00 CDT

The effect of polls on voter behavior; how we might finally get good elected officials; and those who find elections too odious or corrupt to vote. Length 8.7 minutes.

10/21/10: "Post-Stroger Politics"

dave@chigov.com (Inside Chicago Government) — Thu, 21 Oct 2010 23:07:00 CDT

How Chicagoans use county government; how formerly obscure county commissioners became visible; and how county reformers helped distract from the real power abusers. Length 9.9 minutes.

10/14/10: "No White Knight, No Silver Bullet"

dave@chigov.com (Inside Chicago Government) — Thu, 14 Oct 2010 15:20:00 CDT

How to remedy the over-reliance on property taxes; an intriguing proposal for term limits; and votes as personal statements about the system. Length 8.5 minutes.

10/7/10: "Mayoral Mayhem"

dave@chigov.com (Inside Chicago Government) — Fri, 08 Oct 2010 11:02:00 CDT

Whether Mayor Daley ever appeared in the Gay Pride parade; what will really determine whether Rahm Emanuel can run for mayor; and what the Rahm haters want. Length 8.7 minutes.

9/30/10: "The Hot New Issue"

dave@chigov.com (Inside Chicago Government) — Thu, 30 Sep 2010 16:19:00 CDT

How Mike Quigley opened the floodgates to scrutiny of tax-increment financing; how Quigley turned mayoral irritation into electoral success; and Mayor Daley's final gift to Chicago. Length 5.8 minutes.

9/23/10: "Filed Away?"

dave@chigov.com (Inside Chicago Government) — Tue, 28 Sep 2010 15:36:00 CDT

Dave and Ben discuss their co-written article on the secret "do not hire" classification of layed-off Chicago public school teachers. Length 10.1 minutes.

9/16/10: "Me and My Mayor"

dave@chigov.com (Inside Chicago Government) — Thu, 16 Sep 2010 17:35:00 CDT

Why Ben's not afraid of mayoral retribution; which candidate has the most similarity to Daley; and when Ben will write about the Daley legacy. Length 9 minutes.

9/2/10: "Define 'Redefinition'"

dave@chigov.com (Inside Chicago Government) — Fri, 03 Sep 2010 17:47:00 CDT

Why the Chicago Public Schools administration would authorize a contract violation; how charter schools might circumvent anti-patronage protections; and who actually makes decisions to dismiss teachers. Length 8.1 minutes.

8/19/10: "Go on, Smash It"

dave@chigov.com (Inside Chicago Government) — Tue, 24 Aug 2010 11:53:00 CDT

Whether the Daley administration's really lied about tax-increment financing; why state Rep. John Fritchey really wants the city to give up TIF reserves; and the limits of cynicism. Length 7.4 minutes.

8/12/10: "The Vanishing Beat Cop"

dave@chigov.com (Inside Chicago Government) — Thu, 12 Aug 2010 17:01:00 CDT

The effects of crime cameras on policing; whether police officers should beat up bad guys; and respect versus fear of the police. Length 7 minutes.

7/29/10: "The Picture Police"

dave@chigov.com (Inside Chicago Government) — Fri, 30 Jul 2010 08:01:00 CDT

What fundamental rights private operators of public land can deny the public; appropriate uses of park space versus leased space; and restrictions that a reasonable person might expect. Length 5.6 minutes.

7/22/10: "The Head Cheerleaders"

dave@chigov.com (Inside Chicago Government) — Fri, 23 Jul 2010 21:28:00 CDT

What Mick Dumke brought to the Reader and Joravsky's articles; the future of government reporting at the Reader post-Dumke; and a look at the Chicago News Cooperative's reporting. Length 7.9 minutes.

7/15/10: "A TIF Under a Microscope"

dave@chigov.com (Inside Chicago Government) — Thu, 15 Jul 2010 17:02:00 CDT

Why the inspector general audited tax-increment financing; the fact of Millennium Park's non-budget development; and why aldermen think the IG shouldn't investigate TIF. Length 8.5 minutes.

7/8/10: "Huberman's Miracle"

dave@chigov.com (Inside Chicago Government) — Thu, 08 Jul 2010 22:17:00 CDT

Whether teachers and students should sacrifice for administrative largesse; how Mayor Daley helps private firms compete with public schools for public dollars; and what it takes to get the public's attention. Length 8.1 minutes.

7/1/10: "Chicago Reader Fires Long-Time Editor Alison True"

dave@chigov.com (Inside Chicago Government) — Tue, 06 Jul 2010 14:00:00 CDT

Ben Joravsky reflects on the tenure and departure of Alison True, the recently-fired editor of the Chicago Reader. Length 8.7 minutes.

6/17/10: "The Armies Are Gathering"

dave@chigov.com (Inside Chicago Government) — Tue, 22 Jun 2010 08:33:00 CDT

The father of tax-increment financing activism; the myth of TIF complexity; and the financial penalty for a school system that doesn't divert money to TIF districts. Length 7.1 minutes.

6/10/10: "The Battle Before the War"

dave@chigov.com (Inside Chicago Government) — Sat, 12 Jun 2010 17:40:00 CDT

Whether unions should focus on company policy, worker benefits, or both; the Chicago Teachers Union's ignorance of how the city raises and spends public dollars; and a fledgling movement to get the Chicago Public Schools to withdraw from tax-increment financing. Length 8.4 minutes.

6/3/10: "Less Is More at CPS"

dave@chigov.com (Inside Chicago Government) — Thu, 03 Jun 2010 17:40:00 CDT

When schools lower property values; the capitalization of new schools--then vs. now; and why schools have ended up in parks. Length 6.7 minutes.

5/27/10: "Less Is More at CPS"

dave@chigov.com (Inside Chicago Government) — Thu, 27 May 2010 21:50:00 CDT

How to get the city to publish public information; the myth of the super-hero teacher; and teachers as whistleblowers. Length 6.9 minutes.

5/20/10: "Who Wins in Daley's TIF Game"

dave@chigov.com (Inside Chicago Government) — Sun, 23 May 2010 23:10:00 CDT

Tax-increment financing's fundamental flaw, and how to fix it; Block 37--the poster child for the original TIF model; and the Board of Ed's legacy of stealing from schoolchildren. Length 8.5 minutes.

5/6/10: "Check the Thermostat in Hell"

dave@chigov.com (Inside Chicago Government) — Thu, 06 May 2010 17:41:00 CDT

The typical Chicagoan's phases of TIF understanding; Ben outlines an unlikely TIF debate; and city officials who believe that Chicagoans don't want to know the true cost of government. Length 8.6 minutes.

4/29/10: "He Doesn't Have to Outrun the Bear"

dave@chigov.com (Inside Chicago Government) — Fri, 30 Apr 2010 14:10:00 CDT

Whether candidates who don't run in a primary should have a harder time running in the general election; the limited focus of the liberal wing of Mayor Daley's party; and whether Forrest Claypool and his ilk really intend reform. Length 7.5 minutes.

4/15/10: "A Raise by Any Other Name"

dave@chigov.com (Inside Chicago Government) — Mon, 19 Apr 2010 23:23:00 CDT

The tenuous connection between Chicago Public School positions, titles, and business cards; putting words into the CPS spokeperson's mouth; and how the CPS budget resembles the city's reporting on TIF districts. Length 8.3 minutes.

4/1/10: "Do As We Say, Not As We Do"

dave@chigov.com (Inside Chicago Government) — Thu, 01 Apr 2010 23:15:00 CDT

Whether Chicago Public Schools staff cuts appear in its budget; the importance of honesty in budget-making; and what Chicago leaders respond to. Length 6.7 minutes.

3/18/10: "The Untouchables"

dave@chigov.com (Inside Chicago Government) — Sun, 21 Mar 2010 23:57:00 CDT

How state Rep. Debra Mell resembles former Pres. Reagan; how the Incumbent Alderman Protection Act could lock up all the nominators in a district; and why the state eliminated Chicago mayoral primaries. Length 6.9 minutes.

3/11/10: "Taking the New Yorker for a Ride"

dave@chigov.com (Inside Chicago Government) — Thu, 11 Mar 2010 22:52:00 CST

Willfull ignorance of entrenched poverty--worse than misleading; corruption without salvation; and other mayors' Daley-envy. Length 6.4 minutes.

3/4/10: "An Island in the Swamp"

dave@chigov.com (Inside Chicago Government) — Mon, 08 Mar 2010 16:19:00 CST

How the University of Chicago inadvertently created smart political tacticians; Loyola's preposterous development proposals; and the natural relationship between developers and universities. Length 7.8 minutes.

2/25/10: "Off Track"

dave@chigov.com (Inside Chicago Government) — Thu, 25 Feb 2010 22:47:00 CST

The Board of Education's tradition of getting back to reporters; where to bury patronage workers at Chicago Public Schools; and the need for a central-office administration. Length 6.7 minutes.

2/18/10: "It Pays to Have an Alderman in Your Pocket"

dave@chigov.com (Inside Chicago Government) — Fri, 19 Feb 2010 17:15:00 CST

How much tax revenue the city expects the Galewood/Armitage TIF District to take in; the future solvency of the city's entire TIF program; and Ald. Carothers: just one more rubber stamp? Length 7.1 minutes.

2/4/10: "Harold and the Hyneses"

dave@chigov.com (Inside Chicago Government) — Thu, 04 Feb 2010 20:09:00 CST

The fears whites had about Harold Washington's mayoralty; the recent primary's county-board candidates "unthinkable" in the '80s and '90s; and Quinn the maverick versus Hynes the mob-runner. Length 9.6 minutes.

1/28/10: "Election Follies"

dave@chigov.com (Inside Chicago Government) — Fri, 29 Jan 2010 02:58:00 CST

When office-holders become reformers; how reading about government operations resembles eating your veggies; and the kind of outsider that can take on Daley and Madigan. Length 7.3 minutes.

1/21/10: "Cook County Needs Cojones"

dave@chigov.com (Inside Chicago Government) — Sun, 24 Jan 2010 23:26:00 CST

The scripting of Joint Board of Review meetings; one the greatest public-policy debacles of the decade; and how Ben swallowed his objections to Toni Preckwinkle. Length 8.8 minutes.

1/14/10: "Who'll Keep Your Rent Down Now?"

dave@chigov.com (Inside Chicago Government) — Fri, 15 Jan 2010 14:50:00 CST

How County Assessor Houlihan orchestrated the homeowners' exemption to property taxes; the city's "drain argument" to justify tax-increment financing; and why city officials won't debate Ben on the radio. Length 9.4 minutes.

1/7/10: "Independent of What?"

dave@chigov.com (Inside Chicago Government) — Fri, 08 Jan 2010 14:46:00 CST

How the Independent Voters of Illinois organization gets its message out; the influence of candidate endorsements; and how the Democratic Party could take over Green Party candidacies. Length 7.1 minutes.

12/31/09: "Who Deserves to Be Disqualified?"

dave@chigov.com (Inside Chicago Government) — Tue, 05 Jan 2010 21:40:00 CST

Why the Chicago Board of Elections considers the nominating process fair; the nature of political influence on the Board of Elections; and whether the nominating process holds challengers to a higher standard. Length 8 minutes.

12/17/09: "It Doesn't Take Much to Be a Maverick"

dave@chigov.com (Inside Chicago Government) — Fri, 18 Dec 2009 15:53:00 CST

How to access the City Council's live video stream; what made Ald. Allen an outspoken critic; and the illusion of Mayor Daley's power over aldermen. Length 9 minutes.

12/10/09: "Shedding Light on the Shadow Budget"

dave@chigov.com (Inside Chicago Government) — Thu, 10 Dec 2009 19:49:00 CST

When logic fails in figuring how the city apportions TIF revenues; the three factors blinding South- and West-Side aldermen; and how City Council members get the bum's rush on fiscal votes. Length 9.3 minutes.

11/26/09: "The Insider"

dave@chigov.com (Inside Chicago Government) — Sun, 29 Nov 2009 16:47:00 CST

Michael Scott as divine intervention; Chicago's unique obstacles to kids getting into neighborhood schools; and, politically, the most important institution for blacks on the West and South Sides. Length 8 minutes.

11/19/09: "Transparency in Action"

dave@chigov.com (Inside Chicago Government) — Thu, 19 Nov 2009 20:16:00 CST

Why Oak Park Senator Harmon might carry water for Mayor Daley; when well-meaning public advocates go over to the TIF dark side; and why the county treasurer can't implement the county clerk's TIF-o-meter. Length 6 minutes.

11/5/09: "October Surprise"

dave@chigov.com (Inside Chicago Government) — Thu, 05 Nov 2009 16:12:00 CST

Unpacking a sample property-tax bill; how Cook County overtaxes its suburban residents to pay Chicago; and Chicago newspapers start reporting the tax-increase aspect of tax-increment financing. Length 7.3 minutes.

10/29/09: "Clout on the Calumet River"

dave@chigov.com (Inside Chicago Government) — Thu, 29 Oct 2009 16:35:00 CDT

A profile of the Southeast Side; whether taxes should fund property buy-outs; and helping communities economically by closing businesses. Length 8.6 minutes.

10/22/09: "The Shadow Budget"

dave@chigov.com (Inside Chicago Government) — Wed, 28 Oct 2009 02:23:00 CDT

What the "TIF sunshine" ordinance leaves in the dark; how Chicago might (or not) make money on its United Airlines subsidy; and the tax benefits of property negligence. Length 10.2 minutes.

10/15/09: "Who'll Decide How Much You'll Pay?"

dave@chigov.com (Inside Chicago Government) — Thu, 15 Oct 2009 23:54:00 CDT

Whether Cook County property-taxpayers need the Board of Review; how many signatures you need to get on a ballot; and how, if the Greens become viable in Illinois, the Dems and Reps will react. Length 9.2 minutes.

10/8/09: "Lessons from the Olympic Bid"

dave@chigov.com (Inside Chicago Government) — Fri, 09 Oct 2009 00:18:00 CDT

The average Joe leading the leaders; how Michelle Malkin showed up; and, corporations: great job, Mayor Daley! Length 8 minutes.

10/1/09: "Dear International Olympic Committee"

dave@chigov.com (Inside Chicago Government) — Fri, 02 Oct 2009 23:37:00 CDT

Ben's alienation by institutional Chicago; the macho thing that aldermen have goin' on; and when Chicagoans will wake up to the fact of one-man rule. Length 6.7 minutes.

9/17/09: "Ben Joravsky, Tool of the Man"

dave@chigov.com (Inside Chicago Government) — Thu, 17 Sep 2009 22:49:00 CDT

The glue that holds patronage together; the Jose Conseco story; and Rod Blagojevich: the next Jerry Springer. Length 7.1 minutes.

9/10/09: "Funds and Games: Chicago 2016's 'Stewardship Report'"

dave@chigov.com (Inside Chicago Government) — Mon, 14 Sep 2009 14:25:00 CDT

Why you didn't see or hear in-depth coverage of the Stewardship Report; how civic leaders criticize Mayor Daley; and to what financial disclosure standards we should hold Chicago 2016. Length 9.5 minutes.

9/3/09: "Ready, Set, Hike"

dave@chigov.com (Inside Chicago Government) — Wed, 09 Sep 2009 17:46:00 CDT

Why city officials constantly restate the effects of tax-increment financing; calculating the impact of Block 37 development; and what Reader staff learned from their new owners. Length 7.3 minutes.

8/20/09: "The Real Estate King of the City Council"

dave@chigov.com (Inside Chicago Government) — Tue, 08 Sep 2009 16:58:00 CDT

Behind the gerrymandering of the 26th Ward; how committeemen used to run the wards; and how zoning committees can protect democracy. Length 8.2 minutes.

8/13/09: "Who'll Be the Bad Guy Now?"

dave@chigov.com (Inside Chicago Government) — Thu, 13 Aug 2009 23:38:00 CDT

Whether all U.S. taxpayers want to pay for Olympics in Chicago; aldermen's mass hysteria in supporting caps on Olympics costs; and how aldermen want it both ways when taking a stand on the Olympics. Length 8.2 minutes.

8/6/09: "Mr. Big Spender"

dave@chigov.com (Inside Chicago Government) — Thu, 06 Aug 2009 16:05:00 CDT

Mayor Washington's wisdom in creating the Central Loop TIF district; the difference in TIF tactics between Mayors Washington and Daley; and two big payouts to United Airlines. Length 6.3 minutes.

7/30/09: "Michael Reese Hospital: The First Sacrificial Lamb"

dave@chigov.com (Inside Chicago Government) — Thu, 30 Jul 2009 17:18:00 CDT

The absurd position of preservationists; the inevitability of a public handout to Olympic Village developers; and how total demolition of Michael Reese Hospital limits development options. Length 7.1 minutes.

7/23/09: "Wanna Buy an Olympics?"

dave@chigov.com (Inside Chicago Government) — Thu, 23 Jul 2009 16:13:00 CDT

North Siders as powerless as South Siders; how the Olympics movement resembles the blizzard of '79; and Olympics planning: an exercise in cynicism? Length 7.5 minutes.

7/16/09: "Still No Property Tax Bill for the Park Grill"

dave@chigov.com (Inside Chicago Government) — Sat, 18 Jul 2009 15:30:00 CDT

The kinds of deals that the Chicago Park District has with on-premises restaurants; whether Cook County judges weigh clout in their decisions; and how much the mob influences city government. Length 9.2 minutes.

7/9/09: "Unsolved Mysteries"

dave@chigov.com (Inside Chicago Government) — Thu, 09 Jul 2009 16:38:00 CDT

How to get ordinary humans to read about complicated issues; whether citizens should trust the city to spend a billion dollars; and why 14th-Ward residents don't deserve an alderman. Length 7.4 minutes.

7/2/09: "On the Hook"

dave@chigov.com (Inside Chicago Government) — Thu, 02 Jul 2009 22:30:00 CDT

From where, exactly, Olympics revenues would come; why an independent civic organization shouldn't analyze Chicago's Olympics budget; and the deafening silence from civic Chicago. Length 6.2 minutes.

6/25/09: "The Grand Old Party's Last Stand"

dave@chigov.com (Inside Chicago Government) — Tue, 07 Jul 2009 12:51:00 CDT

What Republicans used to stand for; why anyone would bother to run as a Republican; and the mystery of Ald. Brian Doherty. Length 5.4 minutes.

6/18/09: "The Insiders"

dave@chigov.com (Inside Chicago Government) — Sun, 21 Jun 2009 20:35:00 CDT

Who enforces the city's procurement rules; parking meters on steroids; and privatization by cocktail party. Length 9.8 minutes.

6/4/09: "What TIFs Giveth, the Olympics Taketh Away"

dave@chigov.com (Inside Chicago Government) — Thu, 11 Jun 2009 15:52:00 CDT

Why it's not hard to fight the Olympics; what you should never forget about the Olympics; and Chicago's pre-existing Olympic aquatic center. Length 5.3 minutes.

5/28/09: "University Village: The Story's Not Finished"

dave@chigov.com (Inside Chicago Government) — Thu, 28 May 2009 16:24:00 CDT

An aspect of tax-increment financing that might rouse the citizenry from its slumber; why Chicago's newspapers don't report on TIF districts; and why renters should care about property taxes. Length 7.8 minutes.

5/15/09: "Fail Part II"

dave@chigov.com (Inside Chicago Government) — Mon, 18 May 2009 16:30:00 CDT

Whether privatization in the abstract has any merit; deconstructing the ways to value parking meters; and giving meter-poor neighborhoods their share. Length 8.3 minutes.

5/7/09: "Taking Advantage of TIF Ignorance"

dave@chigov.com (Inside Chicago Government) — Thu, 07 May 2009 16:49:00 CDT

Whether panic peddling typically occurs in TIF districts; the fundamentals of eminent domain; and how the city will ruin the North Pullman TIF district. Length 8.3 minutes.

4/30/09: "Midterm Examination"

dave@chigov.com (Inside Chicago Government) — Fri, 01 May 2009 00:01:00 CDT

Why Jesse Jackson Jr. Photoshopped his wife; why Ben loves Alderman Bob Fioretti; and the roll call of somewhat-independent aldermen. Length 8.6 minutes.

4/16/09: "Ben Javorsky for Mayor!"

dave@chigov.com (Inside Chicago Government) — Fri, 17 Apr 2009 18:18:00 CDT

How the Reader of olden times handled letter writers; whether the Reader came late to the story; and when Chicagoans have epiphanies about their government. Length 7.2 minutes.

4/9/09: "Fail: How Daley and his crew hid their process from the public, ignored their own rules, railroaded the City Council, and screwed the taxpayers on the parking meter lease deal"

dave@chigov.com (Inside Chicago Government) — Thu, 09 Apr 2009 15:44:00 CDT

What percentage of revenue the city should spend on parking operations; what info the city should disclose about bidders for city concessions; and how aldermen have lost an urban-planning tool. Length 8.2 minutes.

4/2/09: "An Open Letter to the IOC"

dave@chigov.com (Inside Chicago Government) — Thu, 02 Apr 2009 16:35:00 CDT

How the Tribune and Sun-Times ignore their own reporting; what upsets the sheep; and making an honest assessment of the city's finances. Length 9.4 minutes.

3/26/09: "Stimulus, Chicago Style"

dave@chigov.com (Inside Chicago Government) — Thu, 26 Mar 2009 21:50:00 CDT

The three ways to end corporate relocation subsidies; Ben's favorite way; and start-up jobs instead of stolen jobs. Length 9.9 minutes.

3/19/09: "Show Me the Money"

dave@chigov.com (Inside Chicago Government) — Thu, 19 Mar 2009 21:38:00 CDT

A tax increment financing refresher; cities caught up in the notion of "the deal;" and Chicago's mini-version of the federal bailout. Length 9.3 minutes.

3/12/09: "Money for Nothing"

dave@chigov.com (Inside Chicago Government) — Thu, 12 Mar 2009 17:22:00 CDT

Winning the quinella of revenue loss; how one becomes a "chosen" developer; and when yelling at the Community Development Commission works. Length 8.6 minutes.

3/5/09: "The Straw Man"

dave@chigov.com (Inside Chicago Government) — Thu, 05 Mar 2009 16:58:00 CST

If Todd Stroger led the push for the Olympics; whether Mayor Daley controls the county's share of federal stimulus dollars; and the price of peace: patronage. Length 7.8 minutes.

2/26/09: "The $10.5 Million Mascot"

dave@chigov.com (Inside Chicago Government) — Thu, 26 Feb 2009 18:41:00 CST

The one good thing in the city's Olympics bid; whether real-estate development drives the desire for Olympics; and how the city might secretly subsidize the Olympic Village. Length 8.3 minutes.

2/19/09: "The Race to Replace Rahm"

dave@chigov.com (Inside Chicago Government) — Fri, 20 Feb 2009 02:34:00 CST

Earmarks: copious or corrupting; pros and cons of minority districts; and the 5th congressional district as an evolutionary indicator. Length 9.6 minutes.

2/5/09: "MVP or Mope?"

dave@chigov.com (Inside Chicago Government) — Fri, 06 Feb 2009 00:04:00 CST

Defining progressive vs. independent officials; whether aldermen should both legislate and provide constituent services; and the mayor loses his mind. Length 9.2 minutes.

1/29/09: "The Hack Who Pissed Off Harold"

dave@chigov.com (Inside Chicago Government) — Thu, 29 Jan 2009 17:10:00 CST

The definition of patronage (abused and not); how the Hispanic Democratic Organization annihilated Hispanic independence; and Chicagoans: held under psychological bondage? Length 8.2 minutes.

1/22/09: "City for Sale"

dave@chigov.com (Inside Chicago Government) — Thu, 22 Jan 2009 16:09:00 CST

How much police and firefighters at Midway will really cost; why the city has tried to get rid of debt; and, Mayor Daley: privatization leader? Length 7.6 minutes.

1/15/09: "Taking the Fifth"

dave@chigov.com (Inside Chicago Government) — Thu, 15 Jan 2009 17:09:00 CST

How slatemaking works; Ben's ideal Congressperson; and why Chicago Congresspersons stay out of Chicago's governmental problems. Length 9.3 minutes.

1/8/09: "Would You Vote for Roland Burris?"

dave@chigov.com (Inside Chicago Government) — Fri, 09 Jan 2009 12:33:00 CST

What prosecutions the Illinois attorney general could do but doesn't; how Burris might have paid to play; and when ethics trump laws. Length 9.1 minutes.

12/18/08: "Out the Window"

dave@chigov.com (Inside Chicago Government) — Mon, 22 Dec 2008 13:17:00 CST

Whether city managers monitor TIF agreements; where your TIF-sequestered tax dollars actually go; and why Chicago can't suddenly end TIF districts. Length 9.5 minutes.

12/11/08: "The Right Fight"

dave@chigov.com (Inside Chicago Government) — Wed, 10 Dec 2008 16:30:00 CST

The evolution of Ben's TIF explanation; why more Chicagoans don't sue to challenge TIFs; and why Gov. Blagojevich's transgressions don't hold a candle to those of Chicago government. Length 7 minutes.

12/4/08: "More Olympic Games"

dave@chigov.com (Inside Chicago Government) — Thu, 04 Dec 2008 19:41:00 CST

What Barack Obama's appointment of Lawrence Summers says about his fiscal policy; how Chicago's economy resembles that of Russia; and, will Obama control his lieutenants or vice versa? Length 8.6 minutes.

11/27/08: "Hot Seat"

dave@chigov.com (Inside Chicago Government) — Fri, 28 Nov 2008 15:02:00 CST

The difference between a voting plurality and majority; why a Green might succeed Rahm Emanuel; and how the U.S. Constitution lets someone from Cairo represent Chicago. Length 5.3 minutes.

11/20/08: "The Chickens Outfox the Foxes"

dave@chigov.com (Inside Chicago Government) — Thu, 20 Nov 2008 15:43:00 CST

How the U of C takes its cue from City Hall; how the Hyde Park referendum fight used "the Chicago way;" and how reactions to the referendum resemble attitudes about Chicago getting the Olympics. Length 7.4 minutes.

11/13/08: "Yes, He Can"

dave@chigov.com (Inside Chicago Government) — Wed, 19 Nov 2008 16:04:00 CST

The only time a politician has outgrown Mayor Daley; Ben's therapy for power-fixated Chicagoans; and why Obama won't can U.S. Attorney Patrick Fitzgerald. Length 4.6 minutes.

11/6/08: "When the Slush Dries Up"

dave@chigov.com (Inside Chicago Government) — Tue, 11 Nov 2008 19:34:00 CST

The future of the Reader's print edition; TIF districts as borrowing enablers; and incentives for aldermanic subservience--drying up? Length 8.1 minutes.

10/30/08: "The Back-Door Plan"

dave@chigov.com (Inside Chicago Government) — Sun, 02 Nov 2008 08:40:00 CST

How zoning protects the citizenry; rezoning vs. variances; and a look at the members of the Zoning Board of Appeals. Length 9.9 minutes.

10/23/08: "The Mark of Madigan?"

dave@chigov.com (Inside Chicago Government) — Mon, 27 Oct 2008 16:20:00 CDT

Ben's NYC envy; whether term-limited office-holders would've leased Midway; and when people started making careers out of public office. Length 7.6 minutes.

10/16/08: "Easy Money"

dave@chigov.com (Inside Chicago Government) — Fri, 17 Oct 2008 20:38:00 CDT

What makes 99 a magic number; the power (or not) of organized labor in Chicago; and why city workers at Midway whose jobs get privatized might stay employed. Length 7.9 minutes.

10/9/08: "October Surprise"

dave@chigov.com (Inside Chicago Government) — Mon, 13 Oct 2008 02:29:00 CDT

How and why you might become a Constitutional Convention delegate; why you might wanna vote for the Con-Con; and Shakman's legacy. Length 10.1 minutes.

10/2/08: "Get Off the Pot"

dave@chigov.com (Inside Chicago Government) — Fri, 3 Oct 2008 16:53:00 CDT

The firefighter rebellion; dissecting the TIF take; and a great idea for county clerk David Orr. Length 7.5 minutes.

9/25/08: "The Endangered Watchdog"

dave@chigov.com (Inside Chicago Government) — Mon, 29 Sep 2008 15:40:00 CDT

Why Chicago has local school councils; how control of public schools became re-centralized; and your choice: democracy or oligarchy. Length 8.8 minutes.

9/18/08: "Daley Doesn't Need Him"

dave@chigov.com (Inside Chicago Government) — Fri, 19 Sep 2008 16:55:00 CDT

A re-do on Rep. Skip Saviano; the subway station you'll never see; and pole-vaulting under Block 37. Length 6.6 minutes.

9/11/08: "It's Not Illegal to Be Obnoxious"

dave@chigov.com (Inside Chicago Government) — Sat, 13 Sep 2008 00:50:00 CDT

What, exactly, the Chicago Plan Commission approves; Inside Chicago Government's plan for plan commissioners' redemption; and Ben's secret way for residents to present their cases. Length 9.9 minutes.

9/4/08: "Here's a Tip for the Defense: TIFs"

dave@chigov.com (Inside Chicago Government) — Fri, 5 Sep 2008 23:50:00 CDT

Why the governor won't mess with TIFs; why Chicago students can't compete; and how Chicago Public Schools will lose $1.7 billion. Length 8.9 minutes.

8/28/08: "It's the Mayor, Stupid"

dave@chigov.com (Inside Chicago Government) — Thu, 4 Sep 2008 16:20:00 CDT

When off-the-books tax revenues exceed on-the-books revenues; the city's corporate budget as a distraction from its other budgets; and why Ald. Tom Allen bears watching. Length 9.1 minutes.

8/14/08: "An Artificial Battle"

dave@chigov.com (Inside Chicago Government) — Mon, 18 Aug 2008 15:20:00 CDT

The vulnerability of park permit holders; how Ben avoids virtual censorship; and why Ben sleeps well at night. Length 6.5 minutes.

8/7/08: "Three Million Lawsuits Oughta Do It"

dave@chigov.com (Inside Chicago Government) — Fri, 8 Aug 2008 11:10:00 CDT

For residents who might want to take the City of Chicago to court over improperly financed development, Ben and Inside Chicago Government walk thru a list of potentially suit-winning properties. Length 10.1 minutes.

7/31/08: "Endless War"

dave@chigov.com (Inside Chicago Government) — Fri, 1 Aug 2008 18:18:00 CDT

How public schools deprive the public of public space; why the Park District would violate its vendor policy; and how to have healthy debate in your ward. Length 7.8 minutes.

7/24/08: "Magic Beans"

dave@chigov.com (Inside Chicago Government) — Fri, 25 Jul 2008 15:18:00 CDT

How the owners of Michael Reese Hospital snagged a sweet selling spot; the TIF two-fer; and Government Property Purchasing 101. Length 8.1 minutes.

7/10/08: "Seize the Moment"

dave@chigov.com (Inside Chicago Government) — Mon, 14 Jul 2008 22:50:00 CDT

The astounding depth of Olympics opposition; the Olympics as fuel for a real-estate boom; and the Olympic development that'll happen regardless of the Olympics. Length 7.1 minutes.

7/3/08: "The Dead Zone"

dave@chigov.com (Inside Chicago Government) — Fri, 11 Jul 2008 12:50:00 CDT

Chicagoans' immunity from trespassing in the Dead Zone; how Mayor Daley undercut Bensenville residents' clout in the state legislature; and the demise of some of DuPage County's most venerable affordable housing. Length 9 minutes.

6/19/08: "The Road to 2016"

dave@chigov.com (Inside Chicago Government) — Tue, 24 Jun 2008 16:05:00 CDT

Why Mayor Daley needed more than a slim majority vote on the Children's Museum; whether Ben needlessly dramatizes; and astounding aldermen denials. Length 9.4 minutes.

6/12/08: "Is Obama a Chicago Politician?"

dave@chigov.com (Inside Chicago Government) — Tue, 17 Jun 2008 08:40:00 CDT

Whether Obama needs Mayor Daley to win Chicago; the mayor's greater strength--patronage army or voter apathy; and corruption as a tourist attraction. Length 8 minutes.

6/5/08: "The TIF That Keeps On Taking"

dave@chigov.com (Inside Chicago Government) — Wed, 11 Jun 2008 20:20:00 CDT

Ben's confession and pledge; the fundamental Olympics question for Chicagoans; and how corporate leaders committed themselves to a lie. Length 8.5 minutes.

5/29/08: "The Mystery of the Construction Obstructionist "

dave@chigov.com (Inside Chicago Government) — Mon, 2 Jun 2008 11:46:00 CDT

Public-building development demystified; another way to keep public schools under control; and how alderman sign away their power. Length 8.2 minutes.

5/15/08: "A Commission of Puppets"

dave@chigov.com (Inside Chicago Government) — Tue, 20 May 2008 21:01:00 CDT

The selective sight of lakefront protectionists; preparing for indictment of the mayor; and Bush's payback to the Daleys. Length 10 minutes.

4/24/08: "Worse Than We Thought"

dave@chigov.com (Inside Chicago Government) — Mon, 28 Apr 2008 11:49:00 CDT

Better soccer-field sites than Lincoln Park; why the end doesn't justify the means; and the latest on residents' litigation. Length 9.3 minutes.

4/17/08: "A City Off Track"

dave@chigov.com (Inside Chicago Government) — Mon, 21 Apr 2008 16:45:00 CDT

Background on a mayoral ally; Ben's great disappointment with bicycling advocates; and whether the press should count student murders. Length 7.1 minutes.

4/10/08: "Apparently Money Does Grow on Trees"

dave@chigov.com (Inside Chicago Government) — Fri, 11 Apr 2008 17:00:00 CDT

The single dumbest move the Park District has made; moving the Bears out of Soldier Field; and the recipe for rubber stamps. Length 7.2 minutes.

4/3/08: "It's All About the Olympics"

dave@chigov.com (Inside Chicago Government) — Tue, 8 Apr 2008 20:00:00 CDT

How citizens become robots; how a non-robot sees his role; and, can advisory councils survive a purge? Length 8.7 minutes.

3/13/08: "An Independent Streak"

dave@chigov.com (Inside Chicago Government) — Sat, 15 Mar 2008 21:00:00 CDT

The wealthy--our feeble hope; why you should embrace entitlement; and why the ward map looks like a jigsaw puzzle. Length 9 minutes.

3/6/08: "A New Twist on an Old Trick"

dave@chigov.com (Inside Chicago Government) — Tue, 11 Mar 2008 13:10:00 CDT

Daley and Thompson's negotiations hidden in plain sight; if the public screams, the Board of Ed did good; and a look inside the bureaucratic mind. Length 8.3 minutes.

2/28/08: "We Might Take Your House"

dave@chigov.com (Inside Chicago Government) — Mon, 3 Mar 2008 19:40:00 CST

The plan that doesn't plan; a TIF reform that Ben actually likes; and, did the alderman deserve a scolding? Length 8.8 minutes.

2/21/08: "Just Stupid Enough to Be True"

dave@chigov.com (Inside Chicago Government) — Mon, 25 Feb 2008 22:35:00 CST

Winners of the Chicago citizenship award; how voting beats recycling; and Chicago elections--the new basketball? Length 8.7 minutes.

2/14/08: "The Mayor in the Mirror"

dave@chigov.com (Inside Chicago Government) — Mon, 18 Feb 2008 16:55:00 CST

The Block 37 debacle dissected; bonds better for building; and Alderman Ben and Alderman Dave's lesson in democracy. Length 9.7 minutes.

2/7/08: "The New School Shuffle"

dave@chigov.com (Inside Chicago Government) — Sun, 10 Feb 2008 16:45:00 CST

The roll call of abused schools; why city government hides how much revenue it needs; and Ben's perverse delight in reporting. Length 9.7 minutes.

1/31/08: "The Pot and the Kettle"

dave@chigov.com (Inside Chicago Government) — Mon, 4 Feb 2008 19:40:00 CST

What the Board of Review does; and conflict of interest everywhere you look. Length 4.1 minutes.

1/31/08: "A True Outsider"

dave@chigov.com (Inside Chicago Government) — Mon, 4 Feb 2008 13:15:00 CST

What Ben wants in a state's attorney; who not to vote for; and the criteria by which to judge a real reformer. Length 4 minutes.

1/24/08: "Mell Family Politics"

dave@chigov.com (Inside Chicago Government) — Wed, 30 Jan 2008 19:01:00 CST

Where to find the real dirt on candidates; whether back-room drama trumps voting records; and the big Chicago issue that candidates won't face. Length 9.3 minutes.

1/17/08: "A Good Day for the Rainmakers"

dave@chigov.com (Inside Chicago Government) — Mon, 21 Jan 2008 22:15:00 CST

Why you don't need a TIF primer; how West-Side residents discovered a city slush fund; and why the city won't contribute more to the CTA. Length 9.3 minutes.

1/10/08: "Hear Ye, Hear Ye: King Daley issues his self-serving proclamations for '08"

dave@chigov.com (Inside Chicago Government) — Mon, 14 Jan 2008 11:07:50 CST

Why news media fear the mayor; Ben's defense of the Sun-Times; and the silence of the Olympics. Length 7.5 minutes.

1/3/08: "A Zell of a Deal"

dave@chigov.com (Inside Chicago Government) — Wed, 09 Jan 2008 10:53:00 CST

Will the Cubs' owners get the same (huge) tax break as the the Sox' owners; the red herring of the Cubs' threat to move; and what Mayor Daley really wants. Length 9.3 minutes.

12/27/07: "Staff Cuts at the Chicago Reader"

dave@chigov.com (Inside Chicago Government) — Fri, 28 Dec 2007 13:21:00 CST

Tho he's written no article about the Reader's layoff of his fellow staff writers, here Ben reveals how the layoffs have affected him, what the writers brought to the Reader, and what he sees in the paper's future. Length 6.8 minutes.

12/13/07: "Freshman Follies"

dave@chigov.com (Inside Chicago Government) — Fri, 14 Dec 2007 11:01:00 CST

Why persons challenging Cook County incumbents often don't make it to the ballot; Ben's idea for open elections; and, which would you determines your government--football or elections? Length 9.3 minutes.

11/29/07: "The Madigan Effect"

dave@chigov.com (Inside Chicago Government) — Fri, 30 Nov 2007 10:09:00 CST

Demystifying the process for appealing property-tax assessments; Ben's plan for a fairer taxing scheme; and how champions of downtown talk on both sides of their mouths. Length 8.8 minutes.

11/22/07: "The True TIF Tally"

dave@chigov.com (Inside Chicago Government) — Fri, 23 Nov 2007 12:01:00 CST

Ben and Inside Chicago Government create a roadmap for taxpayers that reveals exactly how much of one's taxes get siphoned off to tax increment financing districts. Length 9.9 minutes.

11/1/07: "TIFs for Dummies"

dave@chigov.com (Inside Chicago Government) — Fri, 02 Nov 2007 10:01:00 CST

How tax increment financing districts get gerrymandered; the dark underbelly of the public process; and public officials' off-the-record feelings about TIF. Length 9.8 minutes.