r/AskChicago • • 22d ago

/r/AskChicago Monthly General Discussion Thread

1 Upvotes

Welcome to r/AskChicago's Monthly General Discussion Thread!

The purpose of this thread is to provide a place for general discussion that would otherwise fall outside the scope of what is allowed in r/AskChicago. If you want to share how your trip to Chicago went, comment on topical Chicago-related events, share feedback on improvements for r/AskChicago, or just to simply say hi, this is the thread to post anything that isn't a question.

Rules 2 & 3 (Be Civil and Don't Break The Law) still apply within this thread and any comments that violate these rules will be removed.


r/AskChicago • • 8h ago

I READ THE RULES Anyone else notice a chemical smell, becoming increasingly frequent?

61 Upvotes

The past year, I’ve noticed a chemical / burning smell pretty frequently. Doesn’t appear isolated in any particular neighborhood.

Anyone else notice this?

What can we do about it?


r/AskChicago • • 6h ago

I READ THE RULES How much does your cat’s vet care cost?

23 Upvotes

Trying to figure out if I’m overpaying or if things are just really expensive now. At my last visit with my senior cat, I paid:

$102 for the exam

$110 for a 3-year rabies vaccine

$119 for a 3-year FVRCP vaccine

$256 for a bloodwork panel

I know senior cats cost more. But $600 for a routine visit with vaccines?? yeesh!

I haven’t meaningfully shopped around for vets; I just go to the place within walking distance (a Goodvets clinic). Am I getting ripped off?


r/AskChicago • • 8h ago

I READ THE RULES What is there to do in the Ravenswood/ Edgewater/ Rogers Park area?

13 Upvotes

Looking for recommendations for cool shops (antique stores, thrift, weird stuff, etc) and good restaurants!

My spouse, bff, and I are traveling to Chicago soon to scope out whether or not we want to live there. We are likely to end up getting an apartment in one of the areas listed above, so we are wanting to know whats there.

We dont plan on doing ANY tourist-y things, because we just want to test run what its like to live there as best we can. We are trying to treat everyday as if we already live there and its a free day off of work. Just hanging out, not doing anything too wild


r/AskChicago • • 17h ago

I READ THE RULES Help bring a rescue kitten home— anyone flying from Seattle or Portland to Chicago ?

57 Upvotes

Hi!

I'm currently visiting Maui, Hawaii, and found a stray kitten that I'd love to adopt and bring home to Chicago!

I'm working with Fly Hawaii Cats (https://flyhawaiicats.com), a rescue organization that can transport her from Hawaii to Seattle or Portland. We're looking for someone flying from Seattle (SEA) or Portland (PDX) to Chicago (ORD) who would be willing to accompany her on their flight.

The organization covers all pet travel fees, veterinary documentation, and logistics! You would just need to travel with the kitten in the cabin.

If you're traveling this route or know someone who is, please reach out! Volunteers can sign up directly through their website.

u/FlyHawaiiCats u/PDXSmuggler


r/AskChicago • • 5h ago

I READ THE RULES Chicago Red Stars Seating - Can you move around the stadium?

6 Upvotes

Hey all. I'm heading to the Red Stars game tonight. I'm just wondering -- are they strict with where you sit or is it ok to move around? Have never been so I don't know what kind of crowds they usually get. It looks like the vast majority of the seats are the ends, but they're also basically free on the resale sites at least, so I'm thinking of grabbing one and walking around if they allow it. It looks like they generally draw 4,000 or so and the stadium fits 12,000. Does anyone know?


r/AskChicago • • 4h ago

I READ THE RULES Can anyone recommend a small business tax accountant?

4 Upvotes

I hate to admit this, but I'm behind in taxes. I shudder whenever I get mail from the IRS. As a freelance creative director working in advertising (using an s-corp), I excel in creative shit but am absolutely awful at the administrative stuff.

I need someone patient who is willing to work with me, but not condescending or judgmental. I'm a woman and in the past I've met with a couple boomer dudes (no offense, boomer dudes) who basically treated me like a dumb lil' lady.

I will happily pay for whatever extra time helping someone in my position takes. I just need to find that person. Anywhere in Chicago (or even remote help from someone certified in Illinois) is great.

Thanks in advance!


r/AskChicago • • 6h ago

I READ THE RULES Any Chicago businesses dealt with ADA website accessibility demand letters?

6 Upvotes

We’re a small Chicago business and recently received a shakedown demand letter from a NYC law firm known for filing numerous ADA website accessibility lawsuits.
They’re demanding we fix alleged accessibility issues and pay an unspecified settlement amount within 30 days.
Has anyone dealt with something similar? Did you hire an attorney and settle, fight it, or simply fix your website?
Would also appreciate recommendations for Chicago attorneys experienced in defending these types of claims!


r/AskChicago • • 2h ago

I READ THE RULES Are There Volleyball Nets Open At Lincoln Park ?

2 Upvotes

Heya,

My partner and I visited back in August and played volleyball at Lincoln Park which was so fun. We wanna find another place to play this weekend too!

Are there any outdoor volleyball courts still active/set up this weekend?


r/AskChicago • • 49m ago

I READ THE RULES Lesbians into the milwaukee bucks?

• Upvotes

Are there any lesbians in chicago stoked on the milwaukee bucks?


r/AskChicago • • 2h ago

I READ THE RULES Best hotel recommendations on/near Thanksgiving Parade Route?

0 Upvotes

Hi! I (35f) am looking to book a hotel for my family, age ranges between 5-65, for the week of Thanksgiving. One of my children will be in the Thanksgiving day parade and I would love to have a hotel that has a nice view of the parade or is on or close to the parade route.

Google has me all over the place because I'm directionally challenged and I don't quite understand what or where "the loop" is.

I'm not from this area and have never been before so I would love family friendly hotel recommendations. Big plus if it's a Hilton brand but not a requirement.

Thanks!


r/AskChicago • • 2h ago

I READ THE RULES Personal Trainer with PT Background?

1 Upvotes

Hi All! As stated above, I’m looking to use a personal trainer for the first time and hoping to find recommendations for someone who is also knowledgeable about PT. I had flap reconstruction surgery in September and my right leg was the donor site (bye, bye fibula, hello healing skin graft). I’m in Oak Park but have a car and am really open to any area, especially for the right trainer. Thank you!


r/AskChicago • • 8h ago

I READ THE RULES Chicago apartment utility question?

2 Upvotes

I’ve been living in my high rise building for 6 years. In all previous leases, we’ve had a flat fee for utilities. We renewed our lease in June of this year. From June-September we paid the flat rate each month.

Then in mid September we received an email that they’re now using the RUBS formula to calculate utilities.

This formula was not provided in our lease. Our utility bills are now $200+ more per month. I’ve presented them with the IL Rental Property Utility Service Act and they just keep pushing back.

Any advice?


r/AskChicago • • 2h ago

I READ THE RULES How is the ufc gym on clark st?

0 Upvotes

Just wondering if it’s worth going there.


r/AskChicago • • 23h ago

I READ THE RULES Spooky stories or ghost stories in Chicago neighborhoods?

47 Upvotes

I am looking for spooky stories or ghost stories in any Chicago neighborhood. What do you know about your neighborhood that can be spooky? Know about a local ghost?
👻👻👻👻


r/AskChicago • • 7h ago

I READ THE RULES Anyone/ anywhere that can do a men’s scissor cut?

2 Upvotes

I have mid length hair and I’m looking to get a 2 block 60/40.
Ive had a couple unfortunate cuts at barbershops and am really just looking for anyone/ anywhere that can do this.
I go to great clips and it comes out ok and then I spend 3x that at a barber and sometimes it’s tragic.
Plz help. Can be Chicago or suburbs.


r/AskChicago • • 9h ago

I READ THE RULES Where to donate old washer and dryer?

3 Upvotes

I recently replaced my washer and dryer and am trying to figure out what to do with the old machines. They're Maytag, from the 90's but still work. I am considering using ReStore or ReSupply (ideally someone can come get them from us on the 2nd floor), but am curious if anyone has any other ideas. Like, I wonder if there are any shelters that could use them--anyone know of any? Thanks!


r/AskChicago • • 7h ago

I READ THE RULES Is walking around the loop feasible with multiple luggage items?

2 Upvotes

Basically the title. Ive been to chicago a couple times and know the transport system is decent getting from ORD to downtown and all around. However, this time ill be flying with significant other and child and we will have I believe 4-5 luggage pieces total. 2 checked sizes and 2-3 carry on sizes. Thankfully all have wheels. But my question is it feasible with us three to ride the blue line into the loop and walk to a hotel in the area or is that too much luggage to be hauling around the streets? Also forgot to mention time frame is flying in 12/30 then leaving out 01/04. Thank you anybody willing to give guidance.


r/AskChicago • • 4h ago

I READ THE RULES When two/three different busses approach a stop at once, is there a best practice to signify to the drivers which one you’re trying to get on?

0 Upvotes

Particularly when it’s the second/third bus?

I usually just back away from the bus stop sign and avoid eye contact with the first bus driver but I was curious if there is bus etiquette I might be missing. Once I had a second bus I was trying to get on drive straight past me doing this and now I think about it every time this happens lol


r/AskChicago • • 4h ago

I READ THE RULES How best to get from Rosemont Blue Line stop to Donald E. Stephens Convention Center and back?

0 Upvotes

It should be an easy walk, but when I look on Google Maps, it looks like a soulless car-centric landscape. Assuming it is unpleasant and potentially unsafe to walk as a result. Is the 330 Pace bus the only option? Does the convention center run shuttles?


r/AskChicago • • 12h ago

I READ THE RULES Interactive museums in Chicago?

5 Upvotes

My wife and I have done the Balloon Museum, Color Factory, Museum of science and industry, and Museum of Ice Cream, and we really enjoy those types of interactive, immersive experiences.
We’re looking for other fun, unique places in Chicago or the surrounding suburbs that have a similar vibe. Doesn’t necessarily have to be a museum, just something that’s more hands-on or different from the usual activities.
Any suggestions? We’re also willing to drive a bit if it’s worth it!


r/AskChicago • • 20h ago

I READ THE RULES Anyone know of salons that do simple two sided French braids for straight hair?

15 Upvotes

I’m biracial but white presenting and kinda unsure the etiquette of going into an African salon for those old school French braids my mom used to do for me before school- like one on each side, not super tight. I see lots of signs around town for hair braiding but it all seems more targeting toward people with very different hair than mine, which is fine and pretty much straight.

Who can do my hair for funsies?? But professionally at a salon? Should i try an African braiding salon or a salon more focused on “white hair”?


r/AskChicago • • 1d ago

I READ THE RULES Where could I volunteer for SA victims?

64 Upvotes

I saw women helping a victim in the ER, and I didn’t get the chance to ask what company they work/volunteer for.

EDIT
Thank you for the responses!!!

Companies shared:
Our Resilience - RVA (rape victim advocate volunteering)
YMCA - hotline support training

domestic violence resources:
Mutual Ground Aurora
Wings
Apna Ghar


r/AskChicago • • 1d ago

I READ THE RULES Are flood light directly on top of residential building legal or just plain evil?

18 Upvotes

Guys, I’m actually going to lose my mind. My property management team installed two of the brightest flood lights atop of my 5 floor building that point at 45 degree ish angle over our entrance/courtyard. mind you my apartment complex is moonsish shaped so the lights flood directly into my 4th floor apartment which overlooks the entrance / courtyard. I actually feel like I am being torture in a real life panapticon….. is this freaking legal or just evil? They shine on a timer SO ALL NIGHT LONG FROM 6:30 pm to 6:45 am!!! IT LITERALLY LOOKS LIKE DAYLIGHT IN MY APARTMENT WHILE THEY ARE ON? Can I withhold my rent? What can I do guys???


r/AskChicago • • 9h ago

I READ THE RULES Are dirt bikes allowed in public parks?

0 Upvotes

It is legal to ride dirt bikes and similar electric bikes in Chicago parks? There's a path in the park I walk around with my young son, people of all ages are walking, young kids riding bikes, etc. These kids speed past us recklessly. So just wondering this is completely acceptable? There are no signs posted at the park that say otherwise.