Reader Letters
m EDITOR’S NOTE
Re: “The cheesemonger: Alisha Norris Jones,” from the People Issue (November 10, 2022; volume 52, number three); interview by Mike Sula Brilliant article. Cheese is definitely Food of the Gods. —Angela Sasso, via X Re: “Kent Rose hits 50 years in Chicago country music,” written by Steve Krakow and published online February 14, 2024 The Bar Double R! Did many a going away party there for LaSalle Street bankers changing jobs. —Diana Williams, via Facebook Re: “Owners of beloved Chicago lesbian bar plan queer-focused event space,” written by Kayleigh Padar and published online February 15, 2024
D
uring my first visit to Chicago, I fell hard for the Thorne Miniature Rooms at the Art Institute. The rooms’ immaculately detailed visions of the past, careful use of light, and suggestion of the worlds beyond the tiny walls were transportive. For me the rooms became synonymous with Chicago, and when I moved here I would often visit them to say hello. When I joined the Reader as Art Director last November and knew the challenge of Best of Chicago was approaching, the first idea that came to mind was miniatures. I was very lucky to come across the work of Margie Criner and Itty Bitty Mini Mart, a team of artists with an aesthetic that fit the Reader’s. I was delighted when Margie said yes. They’ve created a wonderfully eclectic and slyly funny version of a Chicago apartment replete with hand-stained floorboards and mini blinds. The behind-the-scenes photos on this page convey a bit of the time and effort that went into realizing this idea. I appreciate Margie and her team’s commitment to the project and their connection to the Reader. I’ve enjoyed the challenge of creating the images for this issue. It might seem counterintuitive to try to capture the breadth of Chicago in items that can fit in the palm of your hand, but a change of perspective can help you see everyday details and the city in a new light. v
Yas, kweens! Keep opening and closing those businesses! Get that community money! Also, as others have pointed out, you’re definitely not the first queer-owned wedding venue in Chicago. Quit lying. —Kristan Lieb, via Instagram
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m letters@chicagoreader.com
—James Hosking, art director m jhosking@chicagoreader.com Behind-the-scenes at the miniature “apartment” created by Itty Bitty Mini Mart JAMES HOSKING
6 CHICAGO READER - FEBRUARY 22, 2024