ambernettles.bsky.social
https://donorbox.org/save-the-chicago-reader/
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"We cover Chicago music in a way no one else can. We tell the stories of Chicago’s unhoused and active addiction communities with dignity and respect. We strive to uplift underground scenes, report on LGBTQ+ issues, and defend free speech."
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support this work by donating (or becoming a monthly member) at chicagoreader.com/donate
You can also click here, read my personal appeal and donate through my individual fundraiser: donorbox.org/save-the-chi...
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As you consider donating or becoming a monthly member, know that your support helps sustain not just our staff, but the many contributors who make the Reader what it is.
In 2024, the Reader commissioned 1,055 freelance pieces from 491 writers and artists.
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One of the hardest parts of this challenge is that we've had to cut back freelance budgets, reducing or even eliminating ongoing series. Many of our freelancers rely on our steady & fair compensation, & it pains me that our financial struggles impact the talented writers & artists in our network.
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And here's the full message from this week's issue: chicagoreader.com/columns-opin...
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Regardless of the sleepless nights and long hours, it’s a privilege to fight to keep the Reader alive. Donate if you can, or haven't already: donorbox.org/save-the-chi...
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We also:
Wrote about 206 local small businesses
Wrote about 108 local nonprofit organizations
Listed 1,627 music shows in Early Warnings
Commissioned 1,055 freelance items, from 491 writers and artists
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In 2024, we published:
311 theater previews and reviews
202 film and television reviews
325 music previews and reviews
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Ultimately, we believe that we, along with all our media colleagues across Chicago, tell you how to live in this city. Reading about your community tells you where to spend your time, what’s worth your money, and how to get things done.
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It’s the talent of our staff writers and culture critics, and our deep, deep bench of freelancers who are hoping we stick around so we can keep publishing their work (and paying them for it).
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What we stand to lose is not just a newspaper. It’s the breadth and depth of knowledge from our music department, who cumulatively have over 45 years of Reader experience covering the sounds of Chicago.
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Also I took social media off my phone, for my mental health. I wish I could be more present digitally, but I am truly unable to do anything but work right now.
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It includes an embed for each artist so I can listen on page and then follow the link if I want to hear more. Supporting local journalism also means supporting local artists, and this is a clear example of that. Enjoy! (And donate to the Reader for Giving Tuesday!)
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We're also launching a new merchandise line this month, for signage and plaques for BOC, as well article and cover framing and display!
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There's 325 categories this year! Categories were determined by previous campaign activity, including the number of nominations we received and the number of votes in the final ballot. We also consider requests and keep a running list of suggestions to review every summer.
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The voting ballot opens on noon Monday, and the ballot was determined by the nominations received during the nomination round in October.
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Nominees and any advertiser can buy ADS on the ballot (because we have to pay our people, and our bills, like for the software for BOC) but you can't pay to get a spot, and the nominees are ordered by the software, not us.
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I appreciate it when people read that and remember it, as every year I see people say that BOC is rigged, or that people pay to be on the ballot.
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No outside influence, including staff preference, advertising revenue, board membership, or affinity with the Chicago Reader, its members or advertisers, affects the Best of Chicago nominations, ballot, or results. chicagoreader.com/best-of-chic...
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nice to see you here!