A year in review with Reader staff writer.

DMB talks to us about the Reader and their future. [View this email in your browser]( A year in review with staff writer, DMB. DMB captures the pulse of Chicago, like none other. Their social criticism and coverage of on the ground news keeps us informed. For our end of the year fundraiser, we sat down with the multi-medium artist and journalist to learn about their work with the Reader. Q: Do you have a favorite story you worked on this year? My favorite story changes each month, because each new story has the potential to become a new favorite of mine. If I had to pick right now, it’d be two from the October Rat issue. We live in the rattiest city on earth, and I wanted to talk about it. The first story was about landlords being responsible for mice infestations in renters’ homes. Its premise grew from a past situation I had with a mice infestation and an unresponsive landlord. For the feature, I spoke with an attorney and the Law Center for Better Housing about how civic organizations aid Chicagoans with the same issue. I also created a how-to guide with resources for those renters who may be non-consensually rooming with mice  The second feature was about Scabby the Rat, the inflatable balloon that emerged as a symbol for workers rights for Chicagoland unions, before spreading its vigor nationally. Scabby represents symbolic free speech and has deep roots in Chicago. Maligned workers have erected Scabby outside of local businesses they feel are treating workers poorly. “I am interested in doing more stories not just on people but exploring how city programs, laws or statutes affect people in personal and communal ways.” [Donate]( Q: What are you looking forward to in the new year? Good question. I am looking forward to uncovering stories that are grounded in the present, but connected to the past. I think I can give people a sense of continuity between the mid 20th century to now. [Help tell Chicago stories]( Q: What makes the Reader special? Haha, I love that the Reader lets me write about what I want! We’re an alternative weekly that takes our time with stories. Instead of worrying about being the first, we aim to be the best. You can tell that how we represent our sources in our stories reflect the personality of our city. Join our Reader Membership Community to support the work like DMB’s and our other fantastic staff writers! As a member, you’ll gain access to exclusive events and merchandise delivered right to your door. Your donation ensures that the Reader can continue to tell stories that reflect the real Chicago. [Support the Chicago Reader]( [Facebook icon]( [Instagram icon]( [Twitter icon]( [Logo] Copyright (C) 2023 Chicago Reader. All rights reserved. You were subscribed to receive emails from Chicago Reader Our mailing address is: Chicago Reader 2930 S. Michigan Ave. Suite 102 Chicago, IL 60616 USA Want fewer emails from us? [Click here]( to choose what you want us to send you. Or, [unsubscribe]( from all Reader emails. We’ll miss you!