Ben Joravsky Interviews by Dave Glowacz

11/1/07: "TIFs for Dummies"

glow@mrradio.org (Dave Glowacz) — 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.

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

glow@mrradio.org (Dave Glowacz) — Fri, 23 Nov 2007 12:01:00 CST

Ben and Mr Radio 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.

11/29/07: "The Madigan Effect"

glow@mrradio.org (Dave Glowacz) — 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.

12/13/07: "Freshman Follies"

glow@mrradio.org (Dave Glowacz) — 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 rather determines your government--football or elections? Length 9.3 minutes.

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

glow@mrradio.org (Dave Glowacz) — 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.

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

glow@mrradio.org (Dave Glowacz) — Wed, 9 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.

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

glow@mrradio.org (Dave Glowacz) — 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.

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

glow@mrradio.org (Dave Glowacz) — 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.

1/24/08: "Mell Family Politics"

glow@mrradio.org (Dave Glowacz) — 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.

1/31/08: "A True Outsider"

glow@mrradio.org (Dave Glowacz) — 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.

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

glow@mrradio.org (Dave Glowacz) — 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.

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

glow@mrradio.org (Dave Glowacz) — 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.

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

glow@mrradio.org (Dave Glowacz) — 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.

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

glow@mrradio.org (Dave Glowacz) — 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.

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

glow@mrradio.org (Dave Glowacz) — 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.

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

glow@mrradio.org (Dave Glowacz) — 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.

3/13/08: "An Independent Streak"

glow@mrradio.org (Dave Glowacz) — 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.

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

glow@mrradio.org (Dave Glowacz) — 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.

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

glow@mrradio.org (Dave Glowacz) — 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.

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

glow@mrradio.org (Dave Glowacz) — 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.

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

glow@mrradio.org (Dave Glowacz) — 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.

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

glow@mrradio.org (Dave Glowacz) — 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.

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

glow@mrradio.org (Dave Glowacz) — 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.

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

glow@mrradio.org (Dave Glowacz) — 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.

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

glow@mrradio.org (Dave Glowacz) — 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.

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

glow@mrradio.org (Dave Glowacz) — 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.

7/3/08: "The Dead Zone"

glow@mrradio.org (Dave Glowacz) — 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.

7/10/08: "Seize the Moment"

glow@mrradio.org (Dave Glowacz) — 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.

7/24/08: "Magic Beans"

glow@mrradio.org (Dave Glowacz) — 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.

7/31/08: "Endless War"

glow@mrradio.org (Dave Glowacz) — 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.

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

glow@mrradio.org (Dave Glowacz) — 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 Mr Radio walk thru a list of potentially suit-winning properties. Length 10.1 minutes.

8/14/08: "An Artificial Battle"

glow@mrradio.org (Dave Glowacz) — 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.

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

glow@mrradio.org (Dave Glowacz) — 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.

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

glow@mrradio.org (Dave Glowacz) — 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.

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

glow@mrradio.org (Dave Glowacz) — Sat, 13 Sep 2008 00:50:00 CDT

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

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

glow@mrradio.org (Dave Glowacz) — 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.

9/25/08: "The Endangered Watchdog"

glow@mrradio.org (Dave Glowacz) — 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.

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

glow@mrradio.org (Dave Glowacz) — 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.

10/9/08: "October Surprise"

glow@mrradio.org (Dave Glowacz) — 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.

10/16/08: "Easy Money"

glow@mrradio.org (Dave Glowacz) — 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.

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

glow@mrradio.org (Dave Glowacz) — 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.

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

glow@mrradio.org (Dave Glowacz) — 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.

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

glow@mrradio.org (Dave Glowacz) — 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.

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

glow@mrradio.org (Dave Glowacz) — 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.

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

glow@mrradio.org (Dave Glowacz) — 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.

11/27/08: "Hot Seat"

glow@mrradio.org (Dave Glowacz) — 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.

12/4/08: "More Olympic Games"

glow@mrradio.org (Dave Glowacz) — 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.

12/11/08: "The Right Fight"

glow@mrradio.org (Dave Glowacz) — 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.

12/18/08: "Out the Window"

glow@mrradio.org (Dave Glowacz) — 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.

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

glow@mrradio.org (Dave Glowacz) — 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.

1/15/09: "Taking the Fifth"

glow@mrradio.org (Dave Glowacz) — 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.

1/22/09: "City for Sale"

glow@mrradio.org (Dave Glowacz) — 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.

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

glow@mrradio.org (Dave Glowacz) — 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.

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

glow@mrradio.org (Dave Glowacz) — 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.

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

glow@mrradio.org (Dave Glowacz) — 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.

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

glow@mrradio.org (Dave Glowacz) — 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.

3/5/09: "The Straw Man"

glow@mrradio.org (Dave Glowacz) — 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.

3/12/09: "Money for Nothing"

glow@mrradio.org (Dave Glowacz) — 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.

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

glow@mrradio.org (Dave Glowacz) — 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.

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

glow@mrradio.org (Dave Glowacz) — 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.

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

glow@mrradio.org (Dave Glowacz) — 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.

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"

glow@mrradio.org (Dave Glowacz) — 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.

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

glow@mrradio.org (Dave Glowacz) — 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.

4/30/09: "Midterm Examination"

glow@mrradio.org (Dave Glowacz) — 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.

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

glow@mrradio.org (Dave Glowacz) — 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.

5/15/09: "Fail Part II"

glow@mrradio.org (Dave Glowacz) — 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.

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

glow@mrradio.org (Dave Glowacz) — 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.

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

glow@mrradio.org (Dave Glowacz) — 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.

6/18/09: "The Insiders"

glow@mrradio.org (Dave Glowacz) — 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.

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

glow@mrradio.org (Dave Glowacz) — 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.

7/2/09: "On the Hook"

glow@mrradio.org (Dave Glowacz) — 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.

7/9/09: "Unsolved Mysteries"

glow@mrradio.org (Dave Glowacz) — 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.

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

glow@mrradio.org (Dave Glowacz) — 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.

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

glow@mrradio.org (Dave Glowacz) — 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.

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

glow@mrradio.org (Dave Glowacz) — 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.

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

glow@mrradio.org (Dave Glowacz) — 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.

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

glow@mrradio.org (Dave Glowacz) — 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.

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

glow@mrradio.org (Dave Glowacz) — 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.

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

glow@mrradio.org (Dave Glowacz) — 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.

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

glow@mrradio.org (Dave Glowacz) — 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.

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

glow@mrradio.org (Dave Glowacz) — 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.

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

glow@mrradio.org (Dave Glowacz) — 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.

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

glow@mrradio.org (Dave Glowacz) — 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.

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

glow@mrradio.org (Dave Glowacz) — 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.

10/22/09: "The Shadow Budget"

glow@mrradio.org (Dave Glowacz) — 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.

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

glow@mrradio.org (Dave Glowacz) — 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.

11/5/09: "October Surprise"

glow@mrradio.org (Dave Glowacz) — 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.

11/19/09: "Transparency in Action"

glow@mrradio.org (Dave Glowacz) — 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.

11/26/09: "The Insider"

glow@mrradio.org (Dave Glowacz) — 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.

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

glow@mrradio.org (Dave Glowacz) — 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.

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

glow@mrradio.org (Dave Glowacz) — 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.

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

glow@mrradio.org (Dave Glowacz) — 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.

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

glow@mrradio.org (Dave Glowacz) — 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.

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

glow@mrradio.org (Dave Glowacz) — 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.

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

glow@mrradio.org (Dave Glowacz) — 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.

1/28/10: "Election Follies"

glow@mrradio.org (Dave Glowacz) — 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.

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

glow@mrradio.org (Dave Glowacz) — 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.

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

glow@mrradio.org (Dave Glowacz) — 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.

2/25/10: "Off Track"

glow@mrradio.org (Dave Glowacz) — 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.

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

glow@mrradio.org (Dave Glowacz) — 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.

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

glow@mrradio.org (Dave Glowacz) — 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.

3/18/10: "The Untouchables"

glow@mrradio.org (Dave Glowacz) — 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.

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

glow@mrradio.org (Dave Glowacz) — 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.

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

glow@mrradio.org (Dave Glowacz) — 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.

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

glow@mrradio.org (Dave Glowacz) — 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.

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

glow@mrradio.org (Dave Glowacz) — 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.

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

glow@mrradio.org (Dave Glowacz) — 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.

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

glow@mrradio.org (Dave Glowacz) — 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.

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

glow@mrradio.org (Dave Glowacz) — 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.

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

glow@mrradio.org (Dave Glowacz) — 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.

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

glow@mrradio.org (Dave Glowacz) — 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.

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

glow@mrradio.org (Dave Glowacz) — 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.

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

glow@mrradio.org (Dave Glowacz) — 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.

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

glow@mrradio.org (Dave Glowacz) — 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.

7/22/10: "The Head Cheerleaders"

glow@mrradio.org (Dave Glowacz) — 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.

7/29/10: "The Picture Police"

glow@mrradio.org (Dave Glowacz) — 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.

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

glow@mrradio.org (Dave Glowacz) — 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.

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

glow@mrradio.org (Dave Glowacz) — 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.

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

glow@mrradio.org (Dave Glowacz) — 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.

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

glow@mrradio.org (Dave Glowacz) — 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.

9/23/10: "Filed Away?"

glow@mrradio.org (Dave Glowacz) — 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.

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

glow@mrradio.org (Dave Glowacz) — 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.

10/7/10: "Mayoral Mayhem"

glow@mrradio.org (Dave Glowacz) — 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.

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

glow@mrradio.org (Dave Glowacz) — 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.

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

glow@mrradio.org (Dave Glowacz) — 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.

10/28/10: "The Practical Party"

glow@mrradio.org (Dave Glowacz) — 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.

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

glow@mrradio.org (Dave Glowacz) — 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.

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

glow@mrradio.org (Dave Glowacz) — 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.

11/25/10: "Do the Math"

glow@mrradio.org (Dave Glowacz) — 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.

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

glow@mrradio.org (Dave Glowacz) — 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.

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

glow@mrradio.org (Dave Glowacz) — 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.

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

glow@mrradio.org (Dave Glowacz) — 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.

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

glow@mrradio.org (Dave Glowacz) — 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.

2/3/11: "Sic 'Em"

glow@mrradio.org (Dave Glowacz) — 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.

2/17/11: "Aldermania!"

glow@mrradio.org (Dave Glowacz) — 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.

2/24/11: "Carving Time Approaches"

glow@mrradio.org (Dave Glowacz) — 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.

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

glow@mrradio.org (Dave Glowacz) — 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.

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

glow@mrradio.org (Dave Glowacz) — 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.

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

glow@mrradio.org (Dave Glowacz) — 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.

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

glow@mrradio.org (Dave Glowacz) — 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.

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

glow@mrradio.org (Dave Glowacz) — 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.

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

glow@mrradio.org (Dave Glowacz) — 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.

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

glow@mrradio.org (Dave Glowacz) — 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.

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

glow@mrradio.org (Dave Glowacz) — 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.

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

glow@mrradio.org (Dave Glowacz) — 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.

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

glow@mrradio.org (Dave Glowacz) — 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.

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

glow@mrradio.org (Dave Glowacz) — 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.

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

glow@mrradio.org (Dave Glowacz) — 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.

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

glow@mrradio.org (Dave Glowacz) — 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.

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

glow@mrradio.org (Dave Glowacz) — 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.

7/7/11: "The Grass Gap"

glow@mrradio.org (Dave Glowacz) — 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.

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

glow@mrradio.org (Dave Glowacz) — 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.

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

glow@mrradio.org (Dave Glowacz) — 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.

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

glow@mrradio.org (Dave Glowacz) — 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.

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

glow@mrradio.org (Dave Glowacz) — 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.

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

glow@mrradio.org (Dave Glowacz) — 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.

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

glow@mrradio.org (Dave Glowacz) — 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.

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

glow@mrradio.org (Dave Glowacz) — 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.

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

glow@mrradio.org (Dave Glowacz) — 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.

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

glow@mrradio.org (Dave Glowacz) — 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.

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

glow@mrradio.org (Dave Glowacz) — 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.

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

glow@mrradio.org (Dave Glowacz) — 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.

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

glow@mrradio.org (Dave Glowacz) — 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.

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

glow@mrradio.org (Dave Glowacz) — 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.

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

glow@mrradio.org (Dave Glowacz) — 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.

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

glow@mrradio.org (Dave Glowacz) — 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.

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

glow@mrradio.org (Dave Glowacz) — 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.

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

glow@mrradio.org (Dave Glowacz) — 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.

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

glow@mrradio.org (Dave Glowacz) — 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.

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

glow@mrradio.org (Dave Glowacz) — 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.

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

glow@mrradio.org (Dave Glowacz) — 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.

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

glow@mrradio.org (Dave Glowacz) — 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.

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

glow@mrradio.org (Dave Glowacz) — 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.

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

glow@mrradio.org (Dave Glowacz) — 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.

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

glow@mrradio.org (Dave Glowacz) — 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.

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

glow@mrradio.org (Dave Glowacz) — 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.

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

glow@mrradio.org (Dave Glowacz) — 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.

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

glow@mrradio.org (Dave Glowacz) — 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.