| Reel Chicago – At the intersection of Chicago Advertising, Entertainment, Media and Production
Reel Chicago is a daily digital magazine that covers the news in Chicago on all aspects of advertising, film, TV, media and production. The content is original, written by industry experts and contributing Op Eds
Mayor Lori E. Lightfoot and Lollapalooza organizers are thrilled to announce that the world class festival will return to Grant Park at full capacity July 29-August 1, 2021. In accordance with current local public health guidance, full COVID-19 vaccination or negative COVID-19 test results will be required to attend Lollapalooza 2021. For patrons who are not … Continue reading “Mayor Lightfoot announces return of Lollapalooza”
Mayor Lori E. Lightfoot today announced the launch of Open Chicago, the latest initiative to safely and fully reopen the city. Open Chicago’s initial programming will feature activated, re-imagined, and pop-up spaces for Chicago residents to enjoy. These spaces will either build on ongoing Chicago traditions, are expanded from programs that launched last year, or … Continue reading “Mayor Lightfoot announces the launch of Open Chicago”
Mayor Lori E. Lightfoot joined other City and community leaders for a celebratory virtual event to commemorate Women’s History Month by honoring 24 community leaders for their commitment to supporting and advocating for the City of Chicago. “As only the second female Mayor of Chicago, I know that the success of our great city has … Continue reading “Mayor Lightfoot honors Chicago’s women community leaders”
Mayor Lori E. Lightfoot, the Chicago Department of Public Health (CDPH) and the Department of Business Affairs and Consumer Protection (BACP) today announced the further easing of COVID-19 regulations for Chicago businesses. Due to sustained progress in all four reopening metrics, effective immediately, indoor capacity at bars, restaurants and other businesses can increase to 50%. … Continue reading “Lightfoot announces further easing of Covid regulations”
Mayor Lori E. Lightfoot and the Chicago Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events (DCASE) are pleased to present “Millennium Park at Home: Chicago Holidays,” presented by Powering Chicago: IBEW Local 134/NECA with support from the Millennium Park Foundation and Chicago Transit Authority. “Millennium Park at Home: Chicago Holidays” program is produced by Kurtis Productions … Continue reading “Lightfoot & DCASE brings Chicago holidays home”
Mayor Lori E. Lightfoot today joined City and business leaders to announce an emergency COVID-19 relief package for the hospitality industry, including a $10 million grant program for Chicago’s restaurants and bars that continue to face significant challenges due to the COVID-19 crisis. Opening for applications this month, the Chicago Hospitality Grant Program will reallocate CARES … Continue reading “Lightfoot announces $10m hospitality grant program”
Mayor Lori E. Lightfoot announced the appointment of Juan Morado Jr. to the Board of the Metropolitan Pier and Exposition Authority (MPEA). The MPEA Board is comprised of nine members. Four members are appointed by the Governor of Illinois and four members are appointed by the Mayor of Chicago. The Chairman is selected by the … Continue reading “Lightfoot appoints Juan Morado Jr. to MPEA Board”
Mayor Lori Lightfoot announced today a business curfew will begin Friday in the city of Chicago. On Monday, the Mayor warned residents that some coronavirus restrictions could return in Chicago if the number of COVID-19 cases in the city continue to rise. City health officials said cases have risen by more than 50 percent over … Continue reading “COVID-19 cases rise Lightfoot announces business curfew”
City offers trick-or-treating guidance and previews ‘Halloweek’ activities to celebrate a Halloween unlike any other. Mayor Lori E. Lightfoot and the Chicago Department of Public Health (CDPH) today announced a plan to safely celebrate Halloween in Chicago that emphasizes social distancing and other safety precautions while allowing trick-or-treating and other fun activities throughout the week. … Continue reading “Mayor Lightfoot gives thumbs up for ‘Halloweek’”
Progress in the fight against COVID-19 will allow for expanded indoor capacity, extended operating hours and loosening of other restrictions for businesses beginning October 1st. Mayor Lori E. Lightfoot, the Chicago Department of Public Health (CDPH) and the Department of Business Affairs and Consumer Protection (BACP) today announced that Chicago has made sufficient progress in … Continue reading “Lightfoot eases Phase Four Guidelines for businesses”
Mayor Lori E. Lightfoot today launched the “Boards of Change” project by FCB – a civic engagement initiative to encourage participation in not only the 2020 U.S. Census, but also in democracy as a whole through actions such as registering to vote, going to the polls, and engaging in public dialogue. The Census is a … Continue reading “Mayor Lightfoot Launches “Boards of Change” by FCB”
President Trump stated that Chicago is next on the list for his “law and order” campaign. Mayor Lori Lightfoot says “there has been a lot of saber-rattling from this administration.” Local Chicago Government officials, including Mayor Lori Lightfoot, were initially outspoken against the insertion of federal agents into cities with the intention to quell civil … Continue reading “Lightfoot tells Trump what she won’t tolerate”
The lesson here is – not that the current White House ever learns – don’t mess with Mayor Lori Lightfoot. After White House Press Secretary Kayleigh McEnany referred to Lightfoot as “the derelict mayor of Chicago” during a press briefing, the mayor clapped back, tweeting “Hey, Karen. Watch your mouth.” Middle-aged White women — the … Continue reading “Lightfoot claps back at McEnany, calls her “Karen””
City of Chicago launches vital “Chicago Connected” campaign with directors Jason & Blue Chicago is making history. In an awareness campaign helmed by commercial directing team Jason & Blue, Mayor Lori E. Lightfoot announced the launch of an urgent social initiative titled “Chicago Connected.” Taking aim at the digital equity gap, the program—the first of … Continue reading “Lightfoot launches ‘Chicago Connected’ with Jason & Blue”
Mayor Lightfoot, the Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events (DCASE) and the Department of Planning and Development (DPD) announced today the first ever Artist-In-Residence Program as part of the City’s INVEST South/West (ISW) community investment and revitalization initiative. The ISW Artist-in-Residence Program will leverage art and creativity as part of a broad and integrated … Continue reading “Mayor Lightfoot announces Artist-In-Residence Program”
Fourth of July signature events include a virtual House music festival, a virtual “Independence Day Salute” concert event, and at-home Salsa dance parties across Chicago. Mayor Lori E. Lightfoot and the Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events (DCASE) today announced the City’s signature Fourth of July holiday events including a virtual House music festival, a virtual … Continue reading “Mayor Lightfoot announces Chicago’s 4th of July events”
Mayor Lori E. Lightfoot and the Chicago Department of Public Health (CDPH) today announced that Chicago is on track to transition to phase four of the “Protecting Chicago” framework on Friday, June 26, alongside the rest of Illinois. The guidelines are aligned with the State-issued guidelines, with additional specificity included for Chicago’s context, which has … Continue reading “Mayor Lightfoot says Chicago ready to move to phase four”
“Ruh-roh.” Yesterday, Chicago Mayor Lori Lightfoot put the Chicago Teachers Union on blast as she deemed a Tweet and an Instagram post from the union as “clearly racist.” The tweet shows a full-color cartoon version of Lightfoot bound by a rope (let’s reiterate an African American woman bound by white people with a rope), wearing … Continue reading “Lightfoot slams Teachers Union for “racist” tweet”
Mayor Lori E. Lightfoot today joined Dr. Helene Gayle, President & CEO of The Chicago Community Trust, and local partners to announce the launch of ‘Together Now: Chicago’s Fund to Rebuild Our Neighborhoods.’ In collaboration with The Chicago Community Trust, the City of Chicago is launching the Together Now fund to unite money raised by … Continue reading “Lightfoot makes $10M commitment to small businesses”
Friday, Chicago Mayor Lori Lightfoot had some choice words for President Donald Trump’s vile and divisive rhetoric he has been spewing on his Twitter account. The Mayor said, “I have two words, one begins with F and it ends with U.” While addressing the media about the weekend’s violent protests and looting, Lightfoot doubled down … Continue reading “Mayor Lightfoot doubles down on Trump comments”
During a press conference held today, Mayor Lori Lightfoot lashed out at President Donald Trump for his tweet which promoted violence against Minneapolis protestors angered over the killing of George Floyd. The Mayor, who is never one to hold back said, “I will code what I really want to say to Donald Trump. It’s two … Continue reading “Mayor Lightfoot has two words for Trump – “F U””
Mayor Lori E. Lightfoot, in partnership with the Chicago Department of Public Health (CDPH), industry leaders, labor leaders, and public officials from around Chicago, today released industry-specific guidelines for businesses, employees, and customers to follow as the city prepares to begin safely reopening in early June. Industry-specific guidelines include details such as how businesses can … Continue reading “Mayor Lightfoot releases guidelines for phase 3 reopening”
The Obamas and Oprah are among the Chicago celebrities reading children’s books across the Chicago Public Library social channels. Mayor Lori Lightfoot and Chicago Public Library (CPL), one of the largest libraries in the US with over 385 professional librarians, and the CPL Foundation have partnered to host ‘Live from the Library,’ a daily story … Continue reading “FCB & Mayor Lightfoot launch ‘Live from the Library’”
Mayor Lori E. Lightfoot, alongside the Chicago Department of Public Health (CDPH), announced the “Protecting Chicago” framework that the City will be using to guide Chicago’s reopening process amid COVID-19. The framework – organized into five phases in alignment with the State of Illinois’ “Restore Illinois” plan – will advise Chicagoans on how to safely exit from … Continue reading “Mayor Lightfoot announces plans for reopening Chicago”
Mayor Lori E. Lightfoot and Citadel today announced the launch of Stay Home. Hit Play., a twice-weekly video series on WTTW that will bring engaging, educational programming from Chicago institutions to students and families across the city. The series will partner with the city’s museums and cultural institutions to invite students to go behind the scenes … Continue reading “Lightfoot launches weekly series ‘Stay Home. Hit Play.’”
Mayor Lori E. Lightfoot and the Chicago Office of Emergency Management and Communications (OEMC) today announced that the City of Chicago is launching the “Chicago Together! Make a Mask, Give a Mask, Wear a Mask” citywide cloth mask drive on Saturday, April 25, 2020. Through the citywide drive, residents can make and donate homemade cloth … Continue reading “Mayor Lightfoot launches citywide ‘Make a Mask’ drive”
Welcome to Week number five of staying-at-home due to the novel coronavirus COVID-19 outbreak. While Chicagoans are hunkered down, Mayor Lori Lightfoot has been busy with creative agency partner Havas Chicago creating another lighthearted PSA. The goal this time – inspire the city to stay home and fill out their Census forms. The Mayor, should … Continue reading “Mayor Lightfoot is back with more stay-at-home tips”
Lock them up in a room for a while and Chicagoans will get into mischief. Mayor Lori Lightfoot has taken on the serious roll of protecting the citizens of Chicago from the spread of the coronavirus. She’s been driving a firm message for everyone to stay at home and they are poking back. Instagram has … Continue reading “Chicago gets creative with Mayor Lightfoot memes”
SHOWTIME, and cast members from its Chicago-based hit show The Chi, along with community leaders, today to announce a $500,000 donation from the network to the City’s Greencorps Chicago green job training program and the Chicago Public Art Group. The funding will support and invest in the City’s South and West sides, which have served … Continue reading “SHOWTIME / The Chi makes $500k donation to Greencorps Chicago”
The Chicago Auto Show opened to the public today better than anticipated attendance. The long awaited 2021 Special Edition is taking place July 15-19 inside McCormick Place’s West Building and outdoors along Indiana Avenue. This marks the first time in history that the show, traditionally hosted in February, will be held in the summertime, taking advantage of … Continue reading “Chicago Auto Show has better than expected attendance”
Mayor Lori E. Lightfoot announces July 3rd fireworks along the lakefront to kick off Independence Day Weekend. The event will also act as a celebration for Chicagoans whose diligence in following public health guidance has allowed City leaders to safely and fully re-open under Mayor Lightfoot’s “Open Chicago” initiative. In place of Navy Pier Fireworks, … Continue reading “July 3rd fireworks to Celebrate Chicago’s Reopening”
Chicago creatives are the recipients of 15 Cannes Lions International Festival Awards, including the Titanium Lion – the top creative award in the world for the “Boards of Change” work. In addition to the awarded Cannes Lions, the City of Chicago was recognized at The One Show 2021, receiving one Grand Prix, four gold, four … Continue reading “Chicago creatives bring home 15 Lions for their city”
The Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events (DCASE) announced even more returning, new and reimagined summer cultural events across Chicago — plus artist lineups and other details for City programs previously announced as part of “Open Culture” — just one component of the Mayor’s Open Chicago initiative to safely and fully reopen the city. … Continue reading “Chicago’s Open Culture artist lineups and programs”
Mayor Lori E. Lightfoot, along with Chicago museum leadership, today announced for one night only, select Chicago museums will be open late for visitors under the Mayor’s Open Chicago initiative as the city moves to Phase 5, Friday, June 11. The move to fully reopen the city makes Chicago the largest city in the … Continue reading “Open Chicago Night at the Museums this Friday night”
Chicago’s youth will march alongside Mayor Lori Lightfoot, Illinois Secretary of State Jesse White, and a number of other local and national stars in the 92nd Annual Bud Billiken Parade on Saturday, August 14, 2021 at 10 a.m. The theme for this year’s parade is “Back to School, Back to Life, Back to Bud Billiken.” Produced by the Chicago Defender Charities, it is the largest … Continue reading “World famous Bud Billiken Parade and Festival is Back!”
Film and TV production in Chicago is 100% up and running, and expanding to the south side. The executive producer of The Chi television series, Derek Dudley is joining forces with Loop Capital Chairman and CEO, Jim Reynolds with plans for a film studio that they expect will bring thousands of jobs to the South … Continue reading “The Chi producer plans $60M film studio on South Side”
22 beaches have officially opened for the 2021 season. The return of beach season is another step forward with Open Chicago, Mayor Lightfoot‘s initiative to safely and fully reopen the city. This marks the first time Chicago beaches have opened for public use since September 2, 2019, due to COVID-19 health and safety precautions. The 2021 beach … Continue reading “2021 Chicago beach season kicks off this weekend”
AIA Chicago’s Lifetime Achievement Award winner Helmut Jahn, a prominent German modernist/postmodernist architect who designed an Illinois state government building (James R. Thompson Center) and worked on the design of the FBI headquarters in Washington, was killed in a bicycle accident involving two vehicles as he was riding his bicycle outside Chicago according to the … Continue reading “Chicago’s beloved architect Helmut Jahn has died”
Years in the waiting, the amazing Navy Pier Flyover is officially open. The transformative pedestrian and bike bridge links the two halves of Chicago’s signature Lakefront Trail and creates an uninterrupted, 18-mile ribbon from 71st Street to Hollywood Avenue. “The Lakefront Trail is undoubtedly one of Chicago’s crown jewels—a reputation that has only been amplified thanks … Continue reading “Navy Pier Flyover links north & south Lakefront Trail”
“Open Culture” signals the reopening of summer events in Chicago’s diverse and legendary cultural scene with music, dance, public art, markets, and more at Millennium Park and venues citywide. Mayor Lori E. Lightfoot, the Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events (DCASE), Choose Chicago, and Chicago’s cultural community announced “Open Culture” — the next phase … Continue reading “Music and more, summer events reopen across Chicago”
The Chicago Auto Show, a marquee event that draws tourists from around the world, returns to McCormick Place marking the first large convention to take place since the COVID-19 pandemic began. The Chicago Auto Show will be held at McCormick Place from July 15 to 19 and will incorporate several innovative safety features – including … Continue reading “Chicago Auto Show returns to McCormick Place in July”
Chicago aims to welcome a new casino resort by 2025. The City of Chicago today officially issued a Request for Proposal for the opportunity to apply for the sole casino license in the country’s third-largest metropolitan market. The selected partner will be able to propose its optimal site for the project, pending the approval by … Continue reading “Chicago makes plans to welcome a new casino resort”
Mayor Lori E. Lightfoot, DCASE, and the Chicago Park District announced “Arts 77” — a citywide arts recovery and reopening plan for all of Chicago’s 77 community areas, representing an initial investment of over $60 million to support local artists and organizations. Additional updates regarding financial grants and programs to support arts recovery will follow in … Continue reading “Chicago Park District announces “Arts 77” arts reopening”
The Andy Awards announced their winners on April 12 and Leo Burnett, DDB Chicago and FCB Chicago represented the windy city for their work on Kraft Heinz Country Time, Miller Lite and Coors Light respectively. Burnett The Chicago office took home an Idea Andy for their work on Country Time Lemonade’s Littlest Bailout. , which … Continue reading “Burnett, DDB, FCB represent Chicago at Andy Awards”
Kimberly-Clark, maker of trusted brands including Huggies, Cottonelle, Kleenex and Depend, will expand their presence in Chicago with a new commercial center for its North American consumer products business. “Kimberly-Clark’s move to Illinois is just the latest sign that our investments in talent, innovation and digital infrastructure are not only paying off for residents but … Continue reading “Kimberly-Clark moving into Chicago’s Fulton Market”
Mayor Lori E. Lightfoot today announced that the City is reopening its ever-popular Chicago Riverwalk for the use of residents and visitors. Starting today, the City will begin a phased-in approach to vendor reopening, allowing for full service by the end of May. In accordance with guidance from the Chicago Department of Public Health (CDPH), social … Continue reading “Chicago Riverwalk reopens today to residents and visitors”
The City of Chicago announced today that the new state of the art firehouse designated as Engine Company 115 is open for immediate operations. Located at 1024 West 119th street, this structure is the largest firehouse ever constructed in the city proper at 27,000 square feet. Engine company 115 will house 2 Engines, 1 Tower Ladder, 2 … Continue reading “Chicago’s newest largest firehouse is open for operations”
The City of Chicago officially entered phase 1c of the vaccine rollout on Monday, March 29th meaning all essential workers and adults with underlying medical conditions are eligible for COVID-19 vaccines. Film and TV workers are classified as Group 1C for vaccine. The City has announced that two new mass vaccination sites will open in … Continue reading “Film and TV workers now eligible for vaccine”
Chicago launches the nation’s first vaccination site run BY union workers FOR union workers. Mayor Lori E. Lightfoot joined with the Chicago Federation of Labor to announce the opening of a new vaccination site for union essential workers as Chicago expands eligibility under Phase 1c. The vaccination site, located at the International Union of Operating … Continue reading “Vaccination site BY union workers FOR union workers”
The Paley Center for Media announced that Soledad O’Brien will be joining its latest PaleyImpact program, Uncovering Racial Injustice with BET’s Disrupt & Dismantle During the event, being held as part of Women’s History Month, the award-winning journalist and producer will discuss her powerful new BET documentary series Disrupt & Dismantle with Scott Mills, President, BET. The conversation … Continue reading “Soledad O’Brien joins latest PaleyImpact program”
Mayor Lori E. Lightfoot, with Choose Chicago and the Chicago Department of Transportation, today announced Chicago Alfresco, an initiative to increase outdoor dining area and the opportunity for businesses and community organizations to design creative long-term outdoor spaces. This new program builds on Mayor Lightfoot’s commitment to support businesses throughout the COVID-19 pandemic. Last year, in … Continue reading “Chicago Alfresco initiative will increase outdoor dining”
Local 727 members joined in the fight against COVID-19 at the United Center, working to convert space in Parking Lot E outside of the arena into a mass COVID vaccination center. Members assisted in the installation of a remote clinic set to serve the people of Chicago by distributing vaccinations beginning on March 9. Run … Continue reading “Local 727 Members join in the Fight Against COVID-19”
The United Center, home of the Chicago Bulls and the Chicago Blackhawks will be used as a mass vaccination site that prioritizes access for seniors and equity for the hardest hit populations. The Biden Administration is opening pilot Community Vaccination Centers across the country. The United Center site will open on March 10 with the capacity to administer … Continue reading “Chicago’s United Center becomes Federal Vaccination Site”
The City of Chicago, in partnership with the Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events (DCASE), Chicago Park District (Parks) and Chicago Public Schools (CPS), today launched the public engagement phase of the Chicago Monuments Project that will conclude in April. The new website identifies monumental sculptures, artworks and commemorative plaques on the public way … Continue reading “Public is invited to join Chicago Monuments Project”
Knickpoint Ventures, owner of the sprawling 22-acre former Marshall Field’s warehouse complex on the Northwest Side, plans to create a film production campus on the site. Chicago Tribune has reported that real estate developer Knickpoint, who has owned the property at 4000 W. Diversey Ave. since 2018, are in preliminary discussions with members of Mayor … Continue reading “Film studio planned for Marshall Field’s warehouse”
Mayor Lori E. Lightfoot and the Chicago Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events (DCASE) today announced $2.5 million in funding opportunities for Chicago artists and arts organizations. A new “Artist Response Program,” opening January 11, will provide $750,000 to support art that respond to the recent health, economic and humanitarian crises. The program includes … Continue reading “City announces $2.5 million arts fund”
It’s hard to remember back in February 2020, when the Kansas City Chiefs bested the San Francisco 49ers in Super Bowl LIV and Parasite was winning Best Picture, no one was talking about COVID, the election and Black Lives Matter. We had no idea we were only a few weeks and months away from all … Continue reading “2020 in Review: Top Chicago advertising campaigns”
What a year, huh? 2020, which felt like a decade, will undoubtedly go down in history as one of the worst years ever. And who will argue? Certainly not the staff at Reel Chicago. This year, COVID forced productions to shut down. Then start back up. Then shut back down. Then start back up. It … Continue reading “2020 in Review: Reel Chicago’s Biggest Stories”
Mayor Lightfoot and the Chicago Department of Public Health (CDPH) announced distribution plans for the COVID-19 vaccine when it becomes available with a commitment to allocate initial doses to all 34 hospitals in the city and to ensure the individuals and communities most impacted by the pandemic are prioritized in the weeks and months to … Continue reading “CDPH plans to distribute COVID-19 vaccine by Dec 14”
The Chicago Urban League in partnership with the City of Chicago and Chicago agency O’Keefe Reinhard & Paul, joined together to announce the launch of Black Shop Friday, a new program encouraging Chicagoans to shop at Black-owned businesses on the day after Thanksgiving, November 27th – widely known as “Black Friday.” A new website BlackShopFriday.com … Continue reading “Chicago turns Black Friday into Black Shop Friday”
In an announcement yesterday, Mayor Lori E. Lightfoot, the Chicago Department of Public Health (CDPH), and the Department of Business Affairs and Consumer Protection (BACP) launched a new citywide strategy – “Protect Chicago” – an effort to help Chicago bend the COVID-19 curve for the second time. “Chicago has reached a critical point in the second surge of COVID-19, demanding that … Continue reading “Film Production not affected by new COVID restrictions”
In celebration across the country, the overwhelming reaction to the news that Joe Biden won the presidential election was met with cheers, honking horns and dancing in the streets. In an unprecedented response, people yelled from balconies, banged pots and pans, and gathered in the streets in celebration. The morning began with a phone call … Continue reading ““We did it Joe!” Chicago reacts to the news”
A Black Harvest Feast, opening night program on Friday, November 6 at 7:30 pm, is hosted by NBC Chicago’s LeeAnn Trotter, our Master of Ceremonies, and features a unique parade of filmmakers in a virtual red carpet to kick off the festivities. Mayor Lori E. Lightfoot and First Lady Amy Eshlman serve as the honorary … Continue reading “Opening Night: 26th Annual Black Harvest Film Festival”
Mayor Lori E. Lightfoot, the Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events (DCASE) and the Department of Planning and Development (DPD) announced the first ever Artists-In-Residence for four of the City’s INVEST South/West neighborhoods: Auburn Gresham (Dorian Sylvain), Austin (Antonia Ruppert), Englewood (Eric Hotchkiss) and New City/Back of the Yards (Fernando Ramirez in partnership with … Continue reading “First Artists-In-Residence for four INVEST neighborhoods”
Molly Given, of the Philly Metro interviews Chicago filmmaker Steve James about his latest film, ‘City so Real‘ Academy Award-nominated filmmaker Steve James’ (Hoop Dreams, America to Me) fascinating and complex portrait of contemporary Chicago delivers a deep, multifaceted look into the soul of a quintessentially American city, set against the backdrop of its history-making … Continue reading “‘City So Real’ Chicago’s problems are America’s problems”
Apparently, Mother Nature may have an opinion on the Trump Biden debate. Before Thursday’s presidential debate, Trump Tower was struck by what appears to be three simultaneous bolts of lightning, though one Twitter user pointed out that it could just be one lightning strike followed by what are called “stepped leaders,” or a series of … Continue reading “Lightning strikes Trump Tower before debate”
The previously announced Halloweek, which will take place from October 26-31, will include the “Arts in the Dark Upside-Down Halloween Parade” in addition to opportunities to safely trick-or-treat around the city. The City’s ‘Halloweek’ guidelines will allow for a responsible celebration taking place over the course of a full week to minimize congregation, while calling … Continue reading “City of Chicago announces additional Halloweek events”
In Chicago, to spread a message of hope and unity, the Edgewater Chamber of Commerce presents Reflections: An Edgewater Art Experience throughout the neighborhood from September 28 – October 31. The project features local street artists, professional muralists, mosaic world masters, fine artists and others on storefronts, theatres, businesses and walls. The Chamber has partnered with art initiatives … Continue reading “Reflections: An Edgewater Art Experience”
The State of Illinois announced that Enterprise Works, the tech incubator at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign’s Research Park, has been awarded a competitive grant through the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) to support the growth and development of tech companies across the state. The university-based tech hub is one of 24 awardees nationwide … Continue reading “State of IL gives U of I Research Park an SBA FAST Grant”
Mayor Lori E. Lightfoot and the Chicago Police Department (CPD) today marked the completion of the City’s 90-day police reforms with the launch of two new pilot programs that are designed to ensure all CPD officers have the mental health and wellness supports they need. With the launch of the new Officer Support System (OSS), a pilot … Continue reading “CPD launch support for officers’ mental health & wellness”
The City of Chicago today launched another engagement tool to combat the spread of COVID-19 in Chicago and encourage mask wearing—a Snapchat lens. The social media platform is popular amongst Millennials and Gen Zers, a demographic that has seen a recent rise in case numbers in Chicago, and which the City believes is key to … Continue reading “Chicago launches Snapchat Lens to encourage masks”
The Year of Chicago Music will celebrate Chicago’s Jazz and World Music Festivals with virtual performances over the Labor Day holiday and Sundays throughout September. Mayor Lori E. Lightfoot and the Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events (DCASE) announced today new and reimagined Jazz and World Music events as part of the Year of … Continue reading “Chicago’s new and reimagined World Music Events”
Boeing today awarded a $1.5 million charitable grant to support the expansion of technology access for approximately 4,500 Chicago Public Schools (CPS) students and 100 educators. The donation – which will fund the purchase of computer equipment and other remote learning technology, including headsets – will be directed through the Children First Fund (CFF), the independent … Continue reading “Boeing gives $1.5m to CPS students for remote technology”
Mayor Lori E. Lightfoot and the Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events (DCASE) announced the recipients of the 2020 CityArts Program grants. This year, the CityArts Program is awarding general operating grants between $2,000 to $30,000 – and special project grants ranging from $2,500 to $56,200 – to 191 nonprofit organizations for a total … Continue reading “City of Chicago awards $2m in CityArts Program grants”
This afternoon, Angela Kinsey from The Office announces Glad ForceFlex Plus in a Kitchen Keynote that’s guaranteed to keep you entertained for 8 full minutes. Similar to Apple, Microsoft and other Silicon Valley Tech Titans, Glad has an innovation to be proud of. So, the brand decided to go big and launch its “greatest innovation … Continue reading “Glad & FCB launch a Kitchen Keynote with Angela Kinsey”
The City of Chicago announced a racial healing and historical reckoning project to assess the memorials, monuments and other art across Chicago. The project will grapple with the often unacknowledged – or forgotten – history associated with the City’s various municipal art collections, and will provide a vehicle to address the hard truths of Chicago’s racial … Continue reading “City of Chicago to Assess Memorials and Monuments”
The International Latino Cultural Center of Chicago announced that the 36th Chicago Latino Film Festival will shift to a virtual format and will take place from September 18-27. The Festival was originally scheduled for April 16-30 at the AMC River East 21 Theatres, but was postponed on March 13th when Illinois Governor J.B. Pritzker and Chicago Mayor Lori Lightfoot ordered … Continue reading “The 36th Chicago Latino Film Festival goes virtual”
Black Business Month Project to Highlight Black-Owned Enterprises in Five Chicago Business Districts To mark the 26th anniversary of National Black Business Month in Illinois, an official recognition by the state of Illinois in honor of ancestor, Dr. Webb Evans, TheBlackMall.com (TBM) will host Black business crawls every Saturday in August covering 5 major areas. “2020 is … Continue reading “TheBlackMall.com hosts weekend black business crawls”
“The Battle Home” installation is fighting to end Veteran Homelessness. In honor of the 20th year of the Good Neighbor Awards, the National Association of REALTORS (NAR) and Havas Chicago are working together to celebrate the impact of each winner in the communities they call home. Each year, NAR’s Good Neighbor Award recognizes members who make extraordinary … Continue reading “NAR & Havas launch “The Battle Home” for Veterans”
Chicago Public Library announced that the upcoming group of celebrity readers for the popular “Live From the Library” program will celebrate the beginning of Major League Baseball. “Live From the Library” which features a combination of librarians, authors, celebrities, and notable Chicagoans, will highlight notable representatives of the Chicago Cubs and Chicago White Sox organizations, … Continue reading “Cubs and White Sox read for CPL ‘Live From the Library’”
Mayor Lori E. Lightfoot in partnership with Chicago’s sports teams launched the “We Are All One Home Team” campaign to encourage the city’s youth to wear masks, practice social distancing and follow the latest public health guidelines to keep themselves and their families safe and healthy. Building on the City’s recent “We Are Not Playing” … Continue reading “Chicago teams launch “We Are All One Home Team””
Mayor Lori E. Lightfoot, the Chicago Department of Public Health and the Department of Business Affairs and Consumer Protection announced a re-tightening of COVID-19 restrictions for bars, restaurants, gyms and personal services. Throughout the pandemic, data has guided every move made by the City, and the recent uptick in cases as well as surging COVID-19 … Continue reading “Chicago reinstates COVID restrictions to combat recent rise”
Montrose Pictures has announced that Algren, the feature length documentary about the award-winning writer, Nelson Algren, will premiere on WTTW, Chicago’s PBS station, this month, running on July 24-27th. Algren spotlights the creative legacy of one of the most underrated writers of the twentieth century. It was directed by Michael Caplan, Associate Professor in Cinema and Television Arts. … Continue reading “Nelson Algren documentary premieres on WTTW”
Mayor Lightfoot, the Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events (DCASE) and the Department of Planning and Development (DPD) announce a series of summer opportunities for artists, creatives, and vendors. The programs include professional development events, opportunities for individual artists and arts organizations, and opportunities for businesses and vendors. Professional Development Events The Keys to … Continue reading “DCASE opportunities for artists, creatives and vendors”
Chicago Public Library announced this week’s group of celebrity readers for the Live From the Library program, featuring a combination of librarians, authors, celebrities, and notable Chicagoans, reading stories to children and families daily at 10 a.m. CST. Actor Joe Mantegna (7/13), actress Denise Richards (7/14), and Inside Edition Chief Investigative Reporter Lisa Guerrero (7/15) will be the latest Chicago notables … Continue reading “Chicago area celebs join CPL’s “Live From the Library””
Do you have a creative project you’re dying to get off the ground? Looking for a space and equipment for your next pitch video? If so, then you should be very excited because local Chicago rental house and studio, Eleven04, is at it again. At a time when film and TV production remains stagnant, Eleven04 … Continue reading “Eleven04 has re-launched their First Backer Initiative”
Fueled Events has announced the launch of CHI-Together, a socially safe entertainment series of drive-in music, entertainment and movie events at Soldier Field, kicking off Wednesday, July 8th, benefitting the Greater Chicago Food Depository. While other drive-in movie properties have “popped up” across the area, the CHI-Together brand of entertainment is the first within the … Continue reading “CHI-Together: Socially-Safe events at Soldier Field”
Mayor Lori E. Lightfoot announced the launch of ‘Chicago Connected’ a groundbreaking program that will provide free high-speed internet service to approximately 100,000 Chicago Public Schools (CPS) students in their households. This first-of-its-kind program will be one of the largest and longest-term efforts in the nation to provide free, high-speed internet over the course of … Continue reading “Chicago launches free high-speed internet to CPS students”
Filmed entirely in isolation, in a bedroom, bathroom, and the alley, ‘Friends on a Shelf’ alleviates the loneliness and monotony of isolation. Chicago-based boutique production company Minimal produced a spot for a small independent craft and consignment shop in Evanston, Illinois called Nice Lena & Friends. Directing duo Spaceship Town helmed the ad, with one half of … Continue reading “Spaceship Town & Minimal join for Nice Lena & Friends”
City of Chicago residents can submit stories to the online memorial, ‘Chicago Remembers’ to honor the legacy of those lost to COVID-19. The City of Chicago has unveiled a web-based, virtual memorial to remember and honor thousands of Chicagoans who have lost their lives to COVID-19. The virtual memorial will host submitted stories and photos of residents … Continue reading “City of Chicago memorializes those lost to COVID-19”
Mayor Lori E. Lightfoot today announced the lineup of Chicago and national celebrities who have come together to celebrate and pay tribute to the over 35,000 graduating high school seniors across Chicago. “Graduation 2020: For Chicago. By Chicago.” is a live, commercial-free 60-minute ceremony hosted and co-created by the City of Chicago and Citadel to … Continue reading “‘Graduation 2020: For Chicago. By Chicago’ lineup”
Following several days of violent protests, the City of Chicago restores access to the Central Business District to prepare for cautious reopening. Mayor Lori E. Lightfoot today announced restored access to the Central Business District and Loop, to prepare the city for reopening on June 3. While full access to the area will be reintroduced … Continue reading “City of Chicago prepares for cautious reopening”
Violent protests erupted in dozens of cities following the death of George Floyd, a black Minneapolis man who died after a white police officer pressed a knee into his neck for more than eight minutes. In Chicago groups of demonstrators broke off from an otherwise peaceful protest to rampage on a looting spree of shopping … Continue reading “Chicago recovering from a weekend of violent protests”
With 699 arrests, more than 80 people shot, a dozen killed and even more injured this was one of Chicago’s deadliest weekends in recent memory. As mayhem and chaos spread across the city, Chicago Mayor Lori Lightfoot, the Chicago P.D. and eventually, the National Guard attempted to maintain peace as more than 3,000 protestors, including … Continue reading “Chicago devastated, Cusack allegedly assaulted by CPD”
For those in the film industry, it’s tough to hear names like Central Camera go up in flames. Founded in 1899, the third generation camera store reached its 121th anniversary this year. Crews responded to the two-alarm fire in the 200 block of South Wabash Avenue, according to a tweet from the Chicago Fire Department … Continue reading “Iconic Central Camera damaged amid protests”
When We All Vote, a national nonpartisan organization, launched Civic Cities, a new initiative that encourages mayors to use their voices, governing authority and convening power to mobilize civic leaders, business leaders and community members to increase voter participation in their communities. The initiative launched with a bipartisan group of 31 founding mayors from across the … Continue reading “When We All Vote encourages mayors to use their voices”
Millennium Park at Home begins Memorial Day weekend with House Music, Gospel Music and Blues Music concerts to launch the new online series of music, arts and recreation programming. Mayor Lori E. Lightfoot and Chicago Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events (DCASE) announced new virtual events for everyone missing Millennium Park’s renowned cultural programming. The new online Millennium … Continue reading “DCASE announces ‘Millennium Park at Home’”
Steppenwolf Theatre Company’s Pants Optional: A Steppenwolf Soirée is a one-of-a-Kind Online Fundraiser Entertains with Live Music, Celebrity Guests and Surprise Appearances. (Video of event below) Steppenwolf Theatre Company replaced its 2020 Gala with a live online event, Pants Optional: A Steppenwolf Soirée, celebrating the power of theatre and raising vital funds to keep it alive … Continue reading “Pants Optional: A Steppenwolf Soirée raises $640k”
To celebrate Chicago’s music history and support the city’s creative communities, the Arts & Business Council of Chicago invites the public to participate in the #ChiMusic35 campaign. Music has always had a sweet home in Chicago. It’s where Louis Armstrong cut his first big records in the 1920s. It’s where Muddy Waters and Howlin’ Wolf made the … Continue reading “#ChiMusic35 Challenge: Submit favorite Chicago music”
FIRSTHAND: CoronavirusOne-Hour Special Compiled from WTTW Digital Documentary SeriesMonday, May 18, 9:00 pm and Thursday, May 21 at 8:00 pm on WTTW#FIRSTHANDwttw In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, WTTW hit the streets of Chicago to film the 15-part digital series FIRSTHAND: Coronavirus, produced and released in real time, that explored the personal, firsthand perspectives of a … Continue reading “FIRSTHAND: Coronavirus WTTW Documentary Series”
A message from the Illinois Production Alliance. As a film industry professional, you no doubt have seen, read or been sent a wide array of proposed production safety guidelines. That is one of several issues that studio stakeholders and the workforce are grappling with as they discuss readiness to restart production. It is anticipated that the Industry-Wide … Continue reading “Industry thoughts on getting back to work safely”
Food pantries and organizations helping residents address food insecurity issues in Chicago’s south and west side neighborhoods are receiving support from AT&T, including three neighborhoods – Austin, Auburn Gresham and South Shore – receiving special focus by Mayor Lightfoot and the City’s Racial Equity Rapid Response Team. AT&T is supporting the effort through its Believe … Continue reading “Chicago neighborhood food pantries get boost from AT&T”
During this National Police Week, AT&T is recognizing police officers’ service and sacrifice with support to the Chicago Police Memorial Foundation, which is providing meals to 6,000 Chicago Police Department (CPD) officers on the street and on duty across every police district in the city. The initiative will also provide gift cards for the families … Continue reading “AT&T provides meals to 6,000 Chicago Police officers”
Governor JB Pritzker got some help from Wellington the Penguin and several other friends at Chicago’s Shedd Aquarium in a new All in Illinois video that reinforces the message for families and children to stay home and practice social distancing. The 60-second social media video features the Governor and Shedd’s iconic aquatic resident, Wellington the … Continue reading “Pritzker and Wellington the Penguin in ‘All In Illinois’ PSA”
During her appearance on CBS’ Face the Nation earlier this month, Chicago Mayor Lori Lightfoot told host Margaret Brennan while the novel coronavirus COVID-19 has impacted the United States in unthinkable ways, the virus has been “devastating” for black communities. This can be attributed in part to the underlying health conditions that disproportionately impact people … Continue reading “Burrell posts powerful COVID-19 video on IG”
As part of the One World: Together At Home globally televised and digital special on Saturday night to support frontline health care workers and the World Health Organization, FCA premiered an all-new television commercials for the Jeep® brands. The 30-second video, “Seven Continents” for Jeep, aired during the two-hour TV special as part of the globally televised … Continue reading “Jeep debuts new spot during ‘One World’ global special”
Five of the nation’s largest advertising trade associations today released a joint statement urging Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer to rescind a portion of Executive Order No. 2020-40 prohibiting certain types of advertising in Michigan. The following statement was issued by the American Association of Advertising Agencies (4A’s), American Advertising Federation (AAF), Association of National Advertisers (ANA), Interactive Advertising Bureau (IAB), and Network … Continue reading “Ad Industry says Gov. Whitmer’s ban violates free speech”
The Chicago Film Office, Rubinstein Law, and Emanuel Congregation present a new screenwriting competition for Chicago-based feature and television scripts. Accepting Features and TV Pilots The Chicago Film Office, Rubenstein Law Firm, and Emanuel Congregation present the Chicago Social Justice Screenwriting Competition. This competition aims to further the voice of the disenfranchised though narrative media … Continue reading “Chicago Film Office presents screenwriting competition”
Mayor Lori E. Lightfoot and the McDonald’s Corporation today announced a new donation of 750,000 N95 face masks to support healthcare professionals and personnel as well as first responders aiding in the citywide response to the COVID-19 global pandemic. The City of Chicago will add these masks into its repository and determine where allocations are needed … Continue reading “McDonald’s donates 750,000 masks for frontline workers”
Mayor Lori E. Lightfoot today announced a groundbreaking campaign, “We Are Not Playing,” in partnership with Chicago’s professional sports teams to combat the spread of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). Each of Chicago’s hometown professional sports teams – including the Chicago Bears, Blackhawks, Bulls, Cubs, Fire, Red Stars, Sky, White Sox – has signed on to the initiative, … Continue reading “Chicago sports teams combat COVID ‘We Are Not Playing’”
Mayor Lori E. Lightfoot and World Business Chicago (WBC) Vice Chair Mellody Hobson today announced that WBC will name Michael Fassnacht as the Chicago Chief Marketing Officer (CMO). Working alongside City agencies and its public and private partners, the CMO will create a unified, citywide marketing, branding and business development strategy to elevate perceptions of Chicago as an … Continue reading “Michael Fassnacht to serve as Chicago CMO”
Chicago’s Mayor Lori Lightfoot is educating the City of Chicago on how she’s staying home and saving lives through baking, decorating, playing music and sipping tea. Through a series of PSAs the Mayor promotes home activities and social distancing as cities across the country move to bend the curve of the pandemic. To produce these … Continue reading “Mayor puts foot down in witty new PSAs from Havas”
Cinespace Chicago Film Studios is donating 20,000 square feet of studio space to the Greater Chicago Food Depository for storage of food boxes for families affected by the novel coronavirus (COVID-19). On Friday, officials announced eight more deaths in Illinois related to the pandemic and 1,105 more cases statewide, raising the death toll to 65 … Continue reading “Cinespace donates 20,000 sq. ft. to Food Depository”
There are now 134 reported new cases of Coronavirus, bringing the statewide total to 422, with at least four deaths. This according to the Chicago Tribune. Unfortunately, among those new cases is Chicago’s acclaimed documentary filmmaker and Kartemquin Films co-founder Gordon Quinn. Quinn, whose credits include Hoop Dreams and recent Oscar nominee Minding the Gap, … Continue reading “Kartemquin Films’ Quinn diagnosed with COVID-19”
Social distancing is now the new norm. And with restaurants and bars having seating areas closed and overcrowded supermarkets out of stock in major cities across the United States including LA, Chicago and New York, take out and food delivery is norm as well. Chicago-based Grubhub has now announced a collaboration with the mayors of … Continue reading “Grubhub sets up fund for drivers and restaurants”
Today in a formal announcement, Illinois Gov JB Pritzker and Chicago Mayor Lori Lightfoot have join other states by placing restrictions on large gatherings. Pritzker asked that events of 250 people or more be postponed or cancelled. He then further mandated that all events of more than 1,000 people are banned in an effort to … Continue reading “Pritzker mandates shutdown of public events over 1,000”
The mayor was not alone in her decision as New York City, Boston, Dallas, Dublin and other cities dropped their festivities for the holiday. According to the Chicago Tribune, Mayor Lightfoot made her decision after days of speculation. Also included in the decision were the South Side’s Irish Parade and even the smaller Northwestern Side … Continue reading “COVID-19 claims Chicago & NY St. Patty’s Day parades”
In a gesture of mischievous generosity, the JCC Chicago Jewish Film Festival is offering movie lovers a choice of six different films to see on opening night. ET, Ferris Bueller’s Day Off, Funny Girl, Keeping Up with the Steins, Stand By me, and When Harry Met Sally will energize the launch of the organization’s seventh … Continue reading “Jewish Film Fest to screen six classics on opening night”
Reel Chicago correspondent, reporter, and film critic Pamela Powell interviews Kartemquin Films’ Oscar-nominated director Steve James and Emmy Award-winning producer Zak Piper at the 2020 Sundance Film Festival. Chicago-based documentarian Steve James presented his newest endeavor, a four-episode mini series City So Real, to the Sundance Film Festival patrons just days ago in the quaint … Continue reading “At Sundance w/Kartemquin’s Steve James & Zak Piper”
The JCC Chicago Jewish Film Festival proudly announces its film selections for the 2020 festival, running February 28 through March 15. This year’s lineup features 52 films at seven venues across the city and suburbs: Cinemark Theater in Evanston, CMX CineBistro and CMX Market at Old Orchard in Skokie, CMX Arlington Heights, the Illinois Holocaust … Continue reading “JCC Chicago Jewish Film Festival unveils 2020 lineup”
Chicago City Council today approved the appointments made by Mayor Lori E. Lightfoot to the Cultural Advisory Council of the Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events (DCASE), including Council Chair Amina J. Dickerson and Vice Chair Alison Cuddy. “A robust Chicago arts community inspires us, engages us, questions the status quo, and has the … Continue reading “Mayor appoints new DCASE advisory council members”
Musical performers, take note: as part of the Year of Chicago Music outlined by Mayor Lori E. Lightfoot in October, the Chicago Department of Cultural Affairs & Special Events (DCASE) is currently accepting applications for the Chicago Band Roster. The Chicago Band Roster is a database of Chicagoland musical performers that will serve as a … Continue reading “DCASE accepting apps for Chicago Band Roster”
95.1 FM Clubsteppin Chicago is throwing The World’s Largest Day Party honoring Radio Legend “The Fly Jock” Tom Joyner, on December 07, 2019, 11am – 4pm at Chicago State University’s Jacoby Dickens Athletic Center 9501 South King Drive-Chicago, Illinois. Ironically, the station’s frequency is 95.1 FM; making it the perfect site for this musical takeover. … Continue reading “Tom Joyner retires with world’s largest day party”
Mayor Lightfoot applauds the coffeehouse’s commitment to jobs and small business growth Starbucks plans to invest $10 million to drive economic opportunity in Chicago. According to a press release, the funds will be dispersed among four Community Development Financial Institutions (CDFI): Accion Chicago, Chicago Community Loan Fund (CCLF), Local Initiatives Support Corporation (LISC), and IFF. … Continue reading “Starbucks to invest $10M in Chicago communities”
Documentary series, reported Stories, expert talks, and community engagement launches Tuesday, November 12, at wttw.com/firsthand The number of victims of Chicago’s gun violence may fluctuate, but the psychological trauma in many neighborhoods is constant. How do wounded communities heal? In a new multi-platform initiative titled, Firsthand: Gun Violence, WTTW explores the personal, firsthand perspectives of … Continue reading “WTTW explores impact of gun violence in ‘Firsthand’”
First-of-its-kind initiative in the US will shine spotlight on the Windy City’s vibrant music scene Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events (DCASE) Commissioner Mark Kelly, Grammy and Oscar Award-winning artist Che “Rhymefest” Smith, and many other civic, arts, and music leaders yesterday announced plans to designate 2020 as the Year of Chicago Music. This … Continue reading “City designates 2020 as the ‘Year of Chicago Music’”
Chicago-produced doc about childhood education returns to the Gene Siskel Film Center September 6 Following up on its sold-out June premiere, the acclaimed early childhood education documentary No Small Matter returns to Chicago’s Gene Siskel Film Center for an encore week of screenings beginning Friday, September 6. The film’s encore run coincides with the start … Continue reading “‘No Small Matter’ back by popular demand”
35 outstanding young artists will be honored at September 21 event in Millennium Park The City of Chicago will celebrate thirty-five outstanding young artists at the 2nd Annual YAS! Fest (Youth Arts Showcase) on Saturday, September 21, in Millennium Park. Representing the vibrancy of creative life and arts education from all across the city, the … Continue reading “YAS! Fest celebrates the rising stars of Chicago”
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