phonecaseboss

[phonecaseboss]

Chicago alleys—the city’s hidden lifelines, where garbage trucks glide like silent assassins, street art tells stories that sidewalks never could, and the occasional rogue shopping cart embarks on a journey of self-discovery. While most cities shove their filth and function out in the open, Chicago had the foresight to tuck its messy reality behind the scenes, giving us a system so effective it’s practically an urban superpower. But alleys are more than just practical. They are alive—the unofficial highways for pedestrians, the secret passages for drivers, and the unintentional wildlife preserves for creatures so resilient they could probably run for office. They are where crime and creativity, decay and discovery, coexist in perfect, gritty harmony. So, here’s to the alleys—the uncelebrated, unfiltered, unapologetic veins of Chicago. Without them, we’d be just another city with too much traffic and nowhere to throw our old couches.

[phonecaseboss]

The World’s Columbian Exposition of 1893 wasn’t just a fair—it was Chicago’s explosive declaration that it had arrived on the world stage, with fireworks, electric lights, and a Ferris Wheel so massive it made the Eiffel Tower jealous. It was a city trying to prove itself, a nation flexing its industrial muscles, and a spectacle that walked the fine line between genius and lunacy. Inside, the White City gleamed with neoclassical architecture, technological marvels, and the illusion of a utopian future. Outside, Chicago remained the gritty, violent, and wonderfully corrupt beast that it always had been—complete with America’s first documented serial killer, H. H. Holmes, turning fairgoers into victims in his infamous “Murder Castle.” This was the fair that introduced the world to Cracker Jack, moving walkways, and the first Ferris Wheel—but also to America’s love of spectacle, excess, and capitalist showmanship. By the time it was over, the White City had crumbled, the debts piled up, and, in true Chicago fashion, a fire had finished off what was left. Yet its legacy endured, shaping everything from urban planning to carnival culture. The World’s Columbian Exposition was a beautiful lie, a wild success, and a flaming disaster—just like the city that built it.

[phonecaseboss]

The City That Out-Produced Hitler

Chicago in World War II was a city so industrious it single-handedly outproduced the United Kingdom in steel every year from 1939 to 1945 and even outpaced Nazi Germany from 1943 onward. Which, frankly, is both impressive and mildly terrifying. That means Chicago, on its own, was beating an entire empire at steel production while also out-manufacturing a country that had spent the previous decade…

[phonecaseboss]

Chicago in the mid-20th century was a city of contradictions—booming industry and economic decline, political powerhouses and social unrest, nuclear breakthroughs and suburban flight. From producing more steel than entire countries to hosting a political convention so riotous it required congressional investigations, Chicago didn’t just exist through history—it punched its way through it. Let’s take a deep dive into how machine politics, racial tensions, and sheer industrial might shaped the city’s trajectory.

[phonecaseboss]

Ah, Chicago. The Windy City. The Second City. The "We swear we’re not just deep-dish and corruption" city. A place where history isn’t just written—it’s aggressively bulldozed, rebuilt, and then reversed, much like the Chicago River itself.

[phonecaseboss]

☘️ Chicago’s St. Patrick’s Day Parade: A Beautiful, Bizarre Mess ☘️ Every year, Chicago celebrates Irish heritage by dumping 50 pounds of eco-friendly dye into the river, turning it so aggressively green that even Kermit the Frog would be concerned. This, of course, is the opening act to a day-long festival of shamrocks, questionable decision-making, and an alcohol-fueled sense of camaraderie that makes strangers in oversized Guinness hats momentary best friends. And yet, despite the public drinking, the sea of “Kiss Me, I’m Irish” shirts (worn by people whose last name is clearly Miller), and the occasional person who falls into the river, the city still insists this is a wholesome, family-friendly event. Sure. Because nothing says “bring the kids” like a guy dressed as a leprechaun loudly debating the merits of Old Style beer at 10 AM. So whether you’re here for the culture, the chaos, or just to witness Chicagoans turn into seasonal Irish philosophers, one thing is certain—this parade is a national treasure. 💚🍻 Sláinte, you magnificent lunatics. 🍻💚

[phonecaseboss]

Cinespace Chicago Film Studios

Cinespace Chicago Film Studios stands as a cornerstone of the Midwest’s film and television production landscape. Established in 2011, the studio has rapidly evolved into a premier destination for both national and international productions, significantly contributing to Chicago’s reputation as a burgeoning hub for the entertainment industry. Location and Facilities Situated approximately 15…

[phonecaseboss]

Community Engagement and Economic Impact of Cinespace Chicago

Cinespace Chicago Film Studios has not only established itself as a leader in the entertainment industry but has also significantly contributed to the revitalization of the North Lawndale neighborhood. Located on Chicago’s West Side, the studio’s presence has transformed the area into a vibrant hub for economic growth, employment opportunities, and community enrichment. Economic…

[phonecaseboss]

DIBS: Chicago’s Most Heated Winter Tradition

DIBS: A Chicago winter staple. Shovel your parking spot, claim it—but for how long? Is it fair? Is it chaos? From history to unwritten rules, we break down this fiercely debated tradition and why it’s not disappearing anytime soon.

Ah, winter in Chicago. The time of year when the temperature drops, the lake-effect snow rolls in, and the most sacred of unspoken laws takes effect: DIBS. For the uninitiated, DIBS is the time-honored Chicago tradition of reserving a freshly shoveled parking spot with whatever household junk is lying around—lawn chairs, old crates, a broken fan, or, in some cases, an inexplicably placed…

[phonecaseboss]

The Roast Beef Sandwich and Chicago

Chicago’s roast beef sandwiches deserve more love! From deli classics to au jus-soaked creations, this underrated gem is a must-try. Whether griddled, dipped, or smothered in cheese, here’s where to find the best in the city. 🍖🥪 #ChicagoEats #RoastBeef

A Delicious Legacy Chicago is well known for its deep-dish pizza, hot dogs without ketchup, and Italian beef, but another sandwich deserves a spot in the city’s culinary hall of fame: the roast beef sandwich. While Italian beef might be the more famous cousin, Chicago has a rich history of roast beef sandwiches that stand on their own, with a variety of interpretations served across the city.…

[phonecaseboss]

Educational Partnerships at Cinespace Chicago

Cinespace Chicago Film Studios has established itself not only as a leading hub for film and television production but also as a cornerstone for fostering the next generation of industry professionals. Central to this mission is its groundbreaking partnership with DePaul University’s School of Cinematic Arts, a collaboration that exemplifies how industry and academia can work together to build a…

[phonecaseboss]

Augmented Chicago: Inaugural Realities (or "Look, We Finally Found a Use for Augmented Reality That Isn’t Just Pokémon Go")

Chicago, are you ready to experience art like never before? Augmented Chicago: Inaugural Realities is taking over Millennium Park, and this time, it’s not just about looking at art—it’s about experiencing it. Featuring the work of four internationally acclaimed artists—Claire Ashley, Faheem Majeed, Yvette Mayorga, and Carlos Rolón—this Augmented Reality exhibition turns the park into a digital masterpiece. With your phone in hand, you’ll witness an entirely new side of Millennium Park—one where technology and creativity collide, blending virtual artistry with Chicago’s urban landscape. And the best part? It’s completely free. 📍 Where? Millennium Park, 201 E. Randolph St., Chicago 📅 When? July 16, 2024 – November 30, 2025 💰 Cost? Absolutely free—because great art shouldn't break the bank. Don’t miss out on this one-of-a-kind fusion of art and technology. Stop by Millennium Park, fire up your phone, and prepare to see Chicago in a whole new way.

Good news, Chicago! Your city has once again decided that the best way to distract you from its horrifying winters and soul-crushing traffic is with art—but not just any art. This time, we’ve taken the magic of Augmented Reality (AR) and thrown it all over Millennium Park like a kid who just discovered Snapchat filters. So, what exactly is happening here? Four internationally renowned…

[phonecaseboss]

Do what? In THIS weather? A list of events in 312 Land

February in Chicago can be bleak, but your social life doesn’t have to be! Whether you’re into theatre, comedy, live music, or art, the city has plenty to offer. From Clue Live on Stage! and Twelfth Night to Write Club’s literary showdown and the mesmerizing Circus Quixote, this month is packed with incredible events. Explore immersive art installations at Millennium Park, take in Shakespeare at the Greenhouse Theater Center, or test your Vampire Diaries knowledge at trivia night. Whatever your vibe, there’s something happening near you. Check out the full list and plan your next night out!

Murder, Mayhem, and Midwinter Melancholy Good evening, Chicago! Or should I say, “Good evening, you magnificent metropolis of deep-dish and deep-seated existential dread!” Let’s take a look at what’s happening around the city this week, because let’s be honest, February in Chicago is a time when we collectively ask ourselves, why do we live here? First up, CLUE Live on Stage! at the CIBC…

[phonecaseboss]

The OneChicago Shows and Their Relationship with Cinespace Chicago

The “OneChicago” franchise, consisting of “Chicago Fire,” “Chicago Med,” and “Chicago P.D.,” has become a cornerstone of television drama, captivating audiences with its gripping storytelling, complex characters, and authentic portrayal of life in Chicago. Produced by Dick Wolf, these interconnected series highlight the heroic efforts of first responders and medical professionals while weaving in…

[phonecaseboss]

The Chicago Riverwalk Getting In Some BG Work

The Chicago Riverwalk, an iconic urban waterway stretching through the heart of downtown Chicago, is more than just a bustling hub for locals and tourists. With its striking architecture, serene waters, and dynamic energy, the Riverwalk has also emerged as a favorite backdrop for television and film productions. From high-octane action scenes to contemplative character moments, the Chicago…

[phonecaseboss]

The Great Windshield Wiper Debate: Up, Down, or Just Give Up?

Chicago’s biggest winter debate isn’t deep dish—it’s DIBS. But should you prop up your windshield wipers before a storm? AAA weighs in, and we’re breaking down the pros, cons, and Chicago-style solutions to keep your car (and your parking spot) winter-ready!

The Great Windshield Wiper Debate: Up, Down, or Just Give Up? Ah, winter in Chicago. The season of lake-effect snow, soul-crushing wind chills, and the annual battle for DIBS—a sacred, lawless tradition where old lawn chairs and milk crates become symbols of territorial dominance. But among the many debates that come with the cold—who has the best pub-style pizza, whether you can ever trust a…

[phonecaseboss]

Filming The Chi

On a drizzly September morning, the rhythmic hum of generators breaks the dawn silence in Chicago’s South Side. At a glance, the scene could be mistaken for an ordinary day in a city where movement never truly halts. But for those who know, it’s another day on the set of The Chi, Showtime’s critically acclaimed drama series that interweaves lives, loves, and losses against the intricate backdrop…