Chicago Loopster

Most Memorable Chicago Crimes

Joanna Carver — Wed, 18 Jul 2012 19:07:15 +0000

Crime victims: Know your rights

Carly Syms — Wed, 18 Jul 2012 19:03:52 +0000

Ceasefire helps save lives

David Kashi — Wed, 18 Jul 2012 19:01:20 +0000

Recent shootings in Chicago has prompted many to worry. However, Ceasefire Chicago seems to be playing a big role in preventing violence. Ceasefire uses public health models to stop violence in its tracks. They try to cool down situations and mediate between parties that have differences and who may want to retaliate for whatever the reason may be.

Crime by the numbers

Rachel MacDonald — Wed, 18 Jul 2012 19:00:42 +0000

Crimes – Map

According to the 2011 Chicago Murder Analysis issued by the Chicago Police Department, the number of murder victims has decreased significantly over the years from the year 1991. However, the number of murder crime complaints has increased year-to-date by 40 percent.

The Chicago Police Deparment issues a weekly report detailing the number and percentage of crime complaints for the week, month and year. As of July 2, 2012 to July 8, 2012, there has been a 50 percent increase for the same week period compared to 2011.

In the last month alone, there has beeen a 58 percent increase noted by the police from 2011 to 2012. Other crimes that seem to be on the rise in the past seven days are crimincal sexual assualt, 3 percent, and robbery, 1 percent.

Chicago Police Department

The unceasing crime in Chicago has begun social movements, from organizations such as Ceasefire to documentaries like “The Interrupters”. By spreading awareness of the issue, the hope is that more people will step up to help stop crime and injury to one another.

View the trailer for “The Interrupters” below:

To read more on the statistics on crime, visit:

CPD Statistical Reports

City of Chicago Data Portal: Crimes 2001-present

CPD Weekly Crime Report

Ceasefire

The Interrupters

Transportation ETA

Rachel MacDonald — Fri, 13 Jul 2012 16:11:09 +0000

Chicago transportation is a touchy subject. In order to travel up to ten miles in a car, an inhabitant of the city may as well be taking a sixty mile road trip in another state. So when it comes to commuting or even exploring the eclectic city, a very important subject that should be broached is transportation. How far is it to Navy Pier from here? How should I get there? When should I leave? What is my estimated time of arrival, or ETA?

[/media-credit] Northern view at a purple line stop in Evanston

I mapped out a simple 5 mile route from Belmont and Sheffield in Lakeview, Chicago to Navy Pier, located in the downtown loop. Walking 5 miles is a daunting task, especially in the summer heat, but it may be less stressful than dodging cars while biking or being cramped on a bus or train. Shown below is a flow chart of the typical amount of time it takes to move 5 miles in the city of Chicago.

Rachel MacDonald/Chicago Loopster

Click on these links to view Google Maps and the CTA tracker, both useful sources in navigating the city.

Google Map of Route

CTA Tracker

Chicagoans are talking about transit today

Carly Syms — Fri, 13 Jul 2012 16:10:52 +0000

Ever wondered what Chicagoans thought about their daily commute? Here’s some of the things they had to say Friday, July 13.

Water taxis can take me where?!

Carly Syms — Fri, 13 Jul 2012 16:10:28 +0000

When you think about transportation in Chicago, you may not think about water taxis right away. But you might be surprised how many options you have to navigate the Windy City and to do it traffic-free and with a view you can’t get anywhere else.

Where you can go on a Chicago water taxi!

Chicago Water Taxi operates the purple route, while Shoreline SightSeeing operates the three remaining lines.

Around the Web
Chicago Water Taxi
Shoreline Sight Seeing

Running in Chicago

David Kashi — Fri, 13 Jul 2012 16:10:11 +0000

Running is a great hobby and in Chicago there is no end to where you can run. Some of the best running paths are right beside Lake Shore Dr. Below there is a map of a path spanning over 16 miles that has you running right beside some of Chicago’s best views. This by far enhances your running experience and makes it more enjoyable.
Below is a path by the lake in downtown Chicago.

David Kashi/Chicago Loopster

Related Links
Running

Sailing Away

Rachel MacDonald — Fri, 13 Jul 2012 16:09:55 +0000

[/media-credit] Belmont Harbor, facing north. Photo taken by Rachel MacDonald.

At the end of Belmont Avenue lies Belmont Harbor. Secluded by the tempestous weather of Lake Michigan by break walls and surrounding greenery, the harbor is home to hundreds of sail boats. Each mast glistens in the sunlight and the sound of rythmic tapping of lines hitting poles can be heard as the boats sway back and forth in the harbor. A lip of land outstretches the opening of the harbor, keeping the waters inside calm.

Belmont Harbor is a perfect location for those living in Lincoln Park of Lakview to dock their vessels. However, for those living in the city without a boat, another option is available- sailing lessons.

[/media-credit] Photo of Chicago Yacht Club sailing school, taken by Kenneth Tanaka in November 2006.

Four different sessions are offered through Chicago Yacht Club for beginner and intermediate learners. Although it is halfway through the summer already- how times flies!- there are two sessions still available.

Chicago is a loud and busy city, and many times the expansive Lake Michigan that lies to the east is often ignored. Yet, there are many opportunities for tourists and residents alike to learn how to sail.

Create your free online surveys with SurveyMonkey, the world’s leading questionnaire tool.

Visit the sites below to learn more information and prices on sailing:

Sailing School Prices

Chicago Yacht Club

Chicago kayaking: safe?

David Kashi — Fri, 13 Jul 2012 16:03:33 +0000

If you think Kayaking on the Chicago river can be harmless think again. On July 1 60 kayakers were rescued when their kayaks capsized and went adrift.

Related Links
Kayaking