Burgerfest!

Marcus Riley, NBC Chicago Street Team

Is there anything that screams an American summer more than a fat juicy hamburger?

Rockit Bar & Grill is kicking off the season with its annual Burgerfest.

This week at the restaurant’s River North and Wrigleyville locations, Executive Chef James Gottwald will feature a different burger each day.

Click here to read the rest of this story on NBCChicago.com.

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Aibi Honors Donna Lapietra

Candace Jordan, NBC Chicago Street Team

Local icon and all around incredible woman, Donna LaPietra, was honored Thursday night  by the Apparel Industry Board at the Casino. The event benefited the Stanley Paul-Raelene Mittelman Scholarship Fund which awards scholarships to college students from Greater Chicago and/or Illinois who are studying in a fashion design program. The evening’s master of ceremonies, a legend himself, Bill Zwecker, called Donna “Chicago’s treasure” and Leslie Hindman called her “the Mrs. Potter Palmer of our time.” I agree wholeheartedly on both counts. Her list of philanthropic endeavors are too numerous to even mention but suffice it to say Chicago would be lost without her. Her significant other, Bill Kurtis, recounted their lives together in a humorous video presentation that included testimonials from Maggie Daley, Gary Sinise, John Bryan, Rick Bayless, Paul Sereno, Victor Skrebneski, Walter Jacobson and Bernie and Jane Sahlins. Special guest entertainers included 11 year old piano prodigy Emily Bear and Asya Taylor who wowed the crowd with their unique abilities. Over 250 friends attended this joyous celebration of Donna’s amazingly full life including Alderman Ed Burke and Judge Ann Burke, Shelley Farley, Grace Barry, Ginger and Dell Hall (who produced the wonderful video), Michael Kutza, Lynne Jordan (who performed), Peggy Lombardo, Dennis Minkel, Carol Prins, Abra and Tom Wilkin, Dori Wilson, Helen Melchior, Amelia Silva, Myra and John Reilly, Mamie Walton, Hazel Barr, Zarada Gowenlock, Susan Ellefson, Greg Hyder, Jim Smith, Skip Grisham, Andrea Schwartz, Richard and Michelle Klarcheck, Boots Nathan and many more. May it never end! Congrats Donna! We love you and thank you for making our world a better place! J

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Word on the Street: Wine Style!

Marcus Riley, NBC Chicago Street Team

Watch the weekly “Word On The Street” segment on 24/7 Chicago: Secrets of the City,” at 12:35 a.m. Saturday nights.

Here’s the thing about wine — there’s always something new to learn. Taht’s it’s always helpful to have an expert show you thed ropes. The Belmont location of WineStyles Chicago is on a mission to help increase your wine knowledge. Check out their “Wine Made Simple” educational series, which teaches you how to taste and experience wine, and the differences between the many regions. Log on to their Web site for information on class availability.

Is there anything better than fine wine? OK, we can think of one thing — free fine wine! Many wine stores all over the city have certain nights set aside for you come in and check out something new, like Tuesday tastings at the Poison Cup on Armitage. Every week they feature wines from a different region, sometimes poured by the actual winemaker. It’s a great way to taste your way around the world without ever leaving Chicago.

What if you’re not into wine at all? If bubbles are your thing, there’s plenty of champagne events all over the city. One of the best places to relax and drink champagne is Pops for Champagne, but it’s also a great place to learn more about it. Pops also hosts a number of educational classes. Log on the
Web site for more information. We have a feeling you’ll be feeling a little more “bubbly” when you leave than when you come in.

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NBA Draft Combine Brings out the Stars

Paul M. Banks a.k.a. The Sports Bank, NBC Chicago Street Team 

When the NBA Draft Combine rolled through Chicago this week, you could have mistaken the Second City for Beverly Hills. Strolling through Michigan Avenue’s Westin Hotel where the draft combine’s media activities were held, we encountered some of basketball’s heaviest hitters, including the entire Chicago Bulls front office, Detroit Pistons GM Joe Dumars, NBA coaches Mike D’Antoni and Mike Dunleavy, legendary talk show host Larry King (twice) and former Los Angeles Dodgers manager Tommy Lasorda. And that was just the first hour.

During the actual interview sessions, a draft combine reporter gets up close and personal with every former college basketball star soon to be drafted in a couple weeks. Each player gets his own table in the conference room and journalists rotate like speed daters to obtain quality face time with everyone. Conversation is much more in-depth than post-game press conferences. It’s about the big picture here — no time to waste on the boringly banal queries from newspaper beat writers.

Click here to read the rest of this post on NBCChicago.com.

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Al Fresco With Free Snuggies

Marcus Riley, NBC Chicago Street Team

One of the hottest restaurants in the city has unveiled a new feature just in time for the hot weather.

HUB51 (51 W. Hubbard) now offers a 40-seat outdoor patio. But just in case the weather isn’t cooperating — which is more often than not in Chicago — the restaurant has just the fix.

HUB51 is offering complimentary Snuggies for guests who get too cold — or who just want to look cool. After all, if you’re going to be eating and drinking, don’t you need a blanket with sleeves?

Click here to read the rest of this post on NBCChicago.com and watch video of the Snuggie Pub Crawl!

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Lively Up Your Self!

Reggie Brown, NBC Chicago Street Team

Treat yourself  to a night of  pampering and glamorous  accommodations at  Personal Privilege’s Glam Revamp party this Saturday from 6-10 pm. Owners Avanel Hart and Tracy Lemke are opening the doors to the men’s and women’s boutique to pamper their patrons with an all out array of indulgent activities.

For starters, be the first to peep and scoop new arrivals from Laguna Beach Denim, True Religion and Jay Shoes. Make sure to check out their  $25 and under rack stocked full of women’s dresses and tops to help round out your Spring/Summer wardrobe.

With 25% off all denim for a limited time and free first-time alterations on all denim purchases,  Personal Privilege is trying their hardest to ensure that you’re dressed to impress.

Grab a glass of champagne, lean back and take full advantage of the complimentary airbrush makeup sessions, manicures and mini facials. There’s also a raffle and gift certificate giveaways of up to $200.

Oh, and did I mention that the evening is sponsored by Hypnotiq?

Part of the proceeds of all sales from 6-10, including all raffle ticket sales will be donated to the Network of Strength breast cancer foundation. 

Roll out, I’ll see you there!

Personal Privilege-2145 N Damen

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Basketball Battle of the Sexes

April Lawson, NBC Chicago Street Team

Spend a night out next week with Chicago’s OTHER basket ball league, the Sky. The Swish Dreams Celebrity Allstar Game takes place Tuesday June 2nd, at 7:00 p.m. at the UIC Pavilion. It’s the first-ever basketball battle of the sexes. The WNBA Chicago Sky will take on an all-male team. No mercy will be spared on the fellas-this game will be played complete with WNBA official rules, including WNBA referees, three-point line, shot clock, and an official WNBA basketball. So, go get ‘em girls!

The E -league roster includes Chicago natives Michael Clark Duncan, Larenz Tate, grammy nominated artists Brian Mcknight and Nelly, actors Donald Faison, Frankie Muniz and comedian Bill Bellamy. To purchase tickets go to http://www.chicagosky.net and enter the promotional code “swish.”

The Swish Dreams Fundraiser, now in its third year, is a mentorship program that integrates reading & math with basketball.

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Carl Thomas Headlines Benefit Concert

 Glenn Murray, NBC Chicago Street Team 

Tonight, King College Prep High School presents recording artist Carl Thomas in concert at  7PM at Harold Washington Cultural Center 4701 S. Dr. Martin L. King Jr. Dr., Chicago, IL. The event will also feature performances by special guests Aniba Hotep & the Sol Collective, Greg Gibbs and the King College Prep Jazz Band.

Thomas is an Aurora, IL native best known as an artist on Sean “Diddy” Combs’ Bad Boy Entertainment record label. His 1999 debut LP, “Emotional” featured the #1 R&B single “I Wish”. In 2006 Thomas earned a Grammy Award nomination for Best R&B Performance by a Duo Or Group With Vocals along with Chaka Khan, Yolanda Adams, and the late Gerald Levert for “Everyday (Family Reunion),” a song from the soundtrack of Tyler Perry’s Madea’s Family Reunion.

Tickets are available at the Center’s box office and at all Ticketmaster locations.

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Chicago Turkish Festival

Laura Lodewyck, NBC Chicago Street Team

Experience the best of Turkey, brought to your own backyard (that is, if your backdoor is across from City Hall, on Washington Street between Clark and Dearborn). The Chicago Turkish Festival continues through this Saturday, followed by the ai Lounge‘s Turkish Festival “After-party“.

This FREE Festival, which runs 10a-6p, includes live performances every afternoon between 12-2p at the Daley Plaza stage (featuring fashion shows of Turkish couture and traditional garb, the Ottoman Military Marching Band, the aptly named “Whirling Dervishes”…). Sample everything from art to music to food at the Festival’s 40 booths, which feature a range of products and demonstrations — so you can watch silk carpet-weaving technique while munching on Orchid ice cream, taking home your own authentic souvenirs and travel info.

Check out Chicago’s 7th annual Turkish Festival before they bring down the tents after close on May 30th. Booths are open until 6pm, and the after-party relocates to 358 W. Ontario til 3am, so load up on that Turkish coffee and celebrate the best of Turkey here in Chicago.

Email me with your favorite local events at llodewyck@nudehippo.com and check out my reports with Nude Hippo at NBCChicago.com and NudeHippo.tv.

 

 

 

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Fight Club Chicago

Itika Oldwine, NBC Chicago Street Team
When most folks hear the words “Fight Club” the late 90s cult classic film starring Edward Norton and Brad Pitt (before the latter was a part of the infamous moniker “Brangelina”) comes to mind. Maybe it’s because, for most of us, the movie was our first real introduction to the flesh pummeling activity known as Fight Club. Fast forward 10 years later and I have found myself ringside at Fight Club Chicago at Joe’s Bar on Weed St. Now, I’m the first to cringe when I see a drop of blood oozing from the smallest flesh wound, so being in the midst of potential blackened eyes and busted lips had me ready to take flight to the nearest exit, but alas, I prepared myself for the worst and stayed put.

Chicago Fight Club, hosted by Jabb Boxing Gym on Grand Ave. near Ukrainian Village, happens four times a year and is organized by Michael Garcia and Dominic Pesoli of Jabb. The duo came up with the idea to put together the Chicago Fight Club events after noticing that many of the patrons at Jabb are “white collar guys that are totally into sparring.”

The first bout of the night was an exhibition between Duayne Richardson and his trainer Carlos Castaneda.

Richardson v. Castaneda

After the two went toe-to-toe, it quickly became obvious that this Fight Club was a little different than the movie’s secret society of men acting out their aggressions and beating their opponents to a pulp. Nope, this Fight Club showcases 24 guys from the Chicago area who put on their gloves, step in the ring, throw a few punches (and take a few too) while their pals cheer them on. Now that’s the kinda Fight Club a gal like me can appreciate.

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Italiasia: Don’t Say It, Just Eat It

Marcus Riley, NBC Chicago Street Team

The first thing you have to overcome is the name. Splitting it in half helps. Italia-Asia. There you go. Admittedly, it may not win awards for the best name for a new restaurant in town, but there’s plenty of worse offenders we can think of (Eivissa?).

But labels don’t really matter — it’s all about the food and value, and that’s where Italiasia comes out a winner.

Italiasia is located on the 15th floor of the Holiday Inn Chicago Mart Plaza, but despite it’s downtown address, it doesn’t carry the downtown baggage — mainly, the high price tag.

As you’d guess from its name, Italiasia is a fusion of Italian and Asian fare. Items like miso soup and tuscan white bean soup sit side-by-side on the menu. And sometimes menu items are fused together in harmony, such as the Veal Osso Bucco, which is slow braised with sake wine, saffron scented arborio rice and served with edamame and gremolata.

Chef de Cuisine Christopher Karl, who trained under chefs such as David Burke, was quick to point out that he’s half Japanese and half German — although his family did have spaghetti nights while growing up.

The restaurant resides in a building connected to the Merchandise Mart, so unless you live or work in the area, it’s not always a destination spot. But this is worth the trip. It’s connected to Cityscape Bar, which boasts one of the best views around, and excellent happy hour deals throughout the week.

Dinner, which included an appetizer, a bottle of wine, two salads and two entrees was an extremely reasonable $92 before tip. You’ll be hard pressed to find that deal anywhere else downtown.

Just make sure you write down the address before you leave the house. Try getting your cabbie to repeat “Italiasia.”

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“Ghost Pepper” eating contest

Laura Lodewyck, NBC Chicago Street Team

The hottest pepper in the world has a challenge for you tonight: “eat me and win a plasma tv”. Contestants at Lion Head Pub will start off easy with a mild bell pepper, eating their way through progressively hotter peppers (jalapeño, ancho, cayenne and habanero…) until the grand finale, the famed “Ghost Pepper”, the Naga Jolokia. The Naga Jolokia is the world’s hottest chili pepper, with a heat index of nearly 1,000,000 on the Scoville Heat Scale. (To give you an idea, your average bell pepper is only about 100-500 units.) Whoever can stomach the most Naga Jolokias will stumble away from the table with their own brand new 32” plasma TV. Bottles of Corona will be on special for $2.50. The contest is free, with free cover all night. The contest begins at 9 pm, if you can take the heat.

Email me a llodewyck@nudehippo.com with your favorite under-discovered Chicago events, and check out my reports with Nude Hippo at NBCChicago.com and NudeHippo.tv.

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Tails in the City: 5 Year of Giving Back

Candace Jordan, NBC Chicago Street Team

My favorite pet luxury store, Tails in the City, recently celebrated their 5th year anniversary on May 15th at Level Nightclub. They had a wonderful turnout and the proceeds all benefitted The Anti-Cruelty Society. Guests enjoyed Red Carpet photos, psychic pet readings by Denise Zak, pet massage by Pam Kuhn, pet caricatures, doggie makeovers in the Bobbi Panter Beauty Lounge, pet training consultations and exhibits from local artists Mark Lind, Mardon Ink and Curly Tale Art. Store owners Bruce Haas and Phillip Emigh opened Tails in the City in 2004. They scour the market for the latest in doggie couture and accessories and were immediately embraced as a fashion destination for canine-istas. Celebs including Holly, Kendra and Bridget formerly from the reality series, “Girls Next Door” all own some of their delicious doggie duds as well as actress Brittany Murphy who made this a destination stop on her way back from filming a movie in the Quad Cities enroute to L.A. with her pet maltese, Clara. One of the best things about Tails in the City is the fact that they’re always planning various fundraisers and special events in an attempt to give back to their community. Their events support PAWS Chicago and The Anti-Cruelty Society. Great job guys and thanks for letting us all party with our pets! (Photos by Greg Szoda)

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Let the Good Times Roll

Rebecca Taras, NBC Chicago Street Team

 

The Goodman Theater’s annual Gala fundraiser is one of the most anticipated black-tie events, and this year is no exception. Chicago native Mandy Patinkin will headline the affair, taking place this Saturday at the Fairmont Hotel (200 N. Columbus). Known as the “musical force of nature,” Patinkin is a Tony Award-winner for his performance in Evita and an Emmy Award-winning Best Actor for his portrayal of Dr. Jeffrey Geiger in “Chicago Hope.” Impressive? Of course, but with a pedigree that includes entertaining audiences through film, television and stage over the past 30 years, recognition is inevitable.

Gala Co-Chairs and Students

The evening kicks off at  6:30 p.m. with a cocktail reception, followed by Patinkin’s 7:30 p.m. performance with Paul Ford (recognized Broadway pianist) on the piano. The duo will cover an array of favorites ranging from Rodgers and Hammerstein to Stephen Sondheim, Harry Chapin and Irving Berlin and Cole Porter. The music continues after dinner, when guests will have the opportunity to put on their own “performance,” dancing to the sounds of Gentleman of Leisure.

The annual Gala is hosted by Goodman Theater’s Women’s board, with proceeds benefiting the Goodman’s Educational and Community Outreach programs. Goodman Women’s Board members Sondra Healy and Cynthia Scholl are the Gala Co-Chairs and Keith Green is the Corporate Chair this year. For tickets and information about the Gala, call Katie Frient, at 312.443.3811 ext. 586.

 

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Come Party at Bull and Bear with Divo Series

Paul M. Banks a.k.a. The Sports Bank, NBC Chicago Street Team

Maven presents The Divo Series! The Sports Bank.net founder Paul M. Banks is one of a select few being honored as a Divo: {dee-voh}, celebrita: A Divo is an Italian word used to describe male superstars! This has nothing to do with an 80s one-hit wonder band that wore large hats constructed of legos.

The Divo Series honors influential men in Media, Marketing, Sports, Fashion, Fitness, Music, TV and much more!

Private reception hosted by Chivas 18 6-7pm

Host: Sarah Vargo of Maven | Promotions, Publicity and Events!
Cocktail Party and Networking function: Wednesday, May 27, 2009

Time: 6:00pm – 9:00pm YES, THERE WILL BE TVs TO WATCH BLACKHAWKS-WINGS GAME 5!

Location: Bull and Bear (IF YOU’RE A CHICAGO SPORTS FAN YOU GOTTA LOVE A BAR WITH THAT NAME!)
431 N. Wells
Chicago, IL

Come check out the party’s Facebook Invitation here-

See more of Paul M. Banks’ work at the Washington Times, Walter Football.com and The Sports Bank

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Studabaker Classic Cookies

Glenn Murray, NBC Chicago Street Team

Studabaker Classic Cookies founder Heidi Kohz wanted to create a “different kind of company” when she ventured out to start her turn on cookie making. The cookies are produced from all natural, organic, locally produced ingredients. the packaging is American made from 100% recycled materials. But what really sets Studabaker Classic Cookies apart is the giving back. Not only in the care of the environment but financially as well. A portion of each month’s revenue from the company will go to a different charitable organization. Studabaker Classic Cookies have been featured at boutique shopping events, socials and charitable organizations around the city.

You can sample your fair share of Studabaker Classic Cookies and their twist on cookie making (titles include, “Cherry Bomb”, “Not So Old Fashioned Oatmeal”, “Memphis Belle”, and “Sugar Daddy”) at the upcoming launch party Saturday June 13th at Kitchen Chicago 324 North Leavitt.

For more information visit the web site:

http://www.classiccookies.net/

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UFood Grill is a Welcome South Loop Addition

Blagica, NBC Chicago Street Team

I don’t know about you, but when a new place hits my ‘hood, I see whether or not I can add it to my daily routine.  For the last few months, I passed a little place called UFood Grill. To and fro I went, curious about how good a place could be with a name like ‘UFood’. I also have a laziness issue. Since moving to the South Loop in 2005, I desperately wanted to see more businesses come in that offered good food at a good price – that are good FOR you. Of course, I want all of characteristics in food place within walking distance.

Short for time, I strolled the block over to UFood Grill, which is conveniently located next to the new neighborhood gym. Originating in Boston, UFood specializes in made-to-order meals that are low in fat, use natural or organic ingredients whenever possible and get this – they never fry.  I was with my hubby and we arrived around lunch-time.

He got the Bison burger with unfries (baked fries) and I ordered a crispy chicken cobb salad.  Both meals were under $10.  We sat back and watched the staff prep our meals.  UFood’s space is airy, bright and includes free Wi-Fi (bonus). I’m a big fan of comfortable seats – especially the kind that force you to have decent posture. For a pseudo fast food place, UFood had good seats.

 The meals came and I was impressed. Portions were spot on and I liked the way my cucumbers, tomatoes and turkey bacon were minced into nice cubes. My light dressing came on the side. Michael’s Bison burger was juicy and filling. The Unfries weren’t overly salty, which I prefer.  I do wish I had a bit more chicken, but for the price and the ingredients, I was willing to compromise ‘too much’ for ‘just right’.

Michael is a ‘Guy’s Guy’ and though he liked his Bison burger, he still prefers other local favorites like Hackney’s to fill his burger quest. 

In addition to burgers and salads, UFood Grill has a full line of interesting wraps, UBowls (with whole grained rice), full dinners, smoothies and frozen yogurt.  Keeping up the tradition of the daily special we Chicagoans like so much, UFood Grill has daily $6.99 specials for you to enjoy.

Close to home. Healthy ingredients. Won’t break the bank. UFood passes my neighborhood test!  Visit the South Loop locale at 823 S. State or the Loop locale at 200 W. Jackson.

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Time To Face The Music

Rebecca Taras, NBC Chicago Street Team

 

Happy Memorial Day Chicago! It’s time to mark your calendars with street festivals, rooftop cocktail hours and of course, the sounds of summer. So grab a group (and in some cases, a bottle and a blanket) and experience a concert in the city before the curtain closes on summer.

Still Going Strong

Chicago’s acclaimed Grant Park Music Festival, led by Principal Conductor Carlos Kalmar and Chorus Director Christopher Bell, opens its historic Gala 75^th season on Wednesday, June 10, at 6:30 p.m. at the state-of-the-art Frank Gehry-designed Jay Pritzker Pavilion in Millennium Park. The opening night concert features Maestro Kalmar leading the GRAMMY®-nominated Grant Park Orchestra and internationally-renowned pianist Stephen Hough through Tchaikovsky’s Piano Concerto No. 1, Key’s patriotic Star Spangled Banner, as well as one of classical music’s greatest hits, Pictures at an Exhibition composed by Modest Mussorgsky. 

All Grant Park Music Festival performances are free to the public. Open lawn and pavilion seating are available on a first-come, first-served basis. Season memberships to the Festival are available, starting at $80 for a specific night of the week (all Wednesdays, Fridays, or Saturdays) or $135 for a season-long membership for all 31 concerts.  Reserved group seating is also available for most concerts. Membership and group sales information is available by calling 312-742-7638 or by visiting the Festival’s website at http://www.grantparkmusicfestival.com The summer series is short, so catch one before the season ends on August15th.

Northshore Classic

Ravinia’s 2009 season presents a diverse lineup of more than 120 events from June 5 through Sept. 19, with 38 debuts, more than 25 free or specially priced events and over 135 guest artists and ensembles including the summer residency of the Chicago Symphony Orchestra featuring Ravinia Festival Music Director James Conlon. Guest artists include Lang Lang, Pink Martini, Herbie Hancock, Yo-Yo Ma, Ramsey Lewis, George Hearn, Jackson Browne, Thomas Hampson, Patti LuPone, Christoph Eschenbach, Bill T. Jones/Arnie Zane Dance Company, Diana Krall, Juilliard String Quartet, Joe Cocker, Susan Graham, John Legend, Dmitri Hvorostovsky, Bonnie Raitt, David Hyde Pierce, Carrie Underwood, Matthias Goerne, Elvis Costello and many others.

Tickets to Ravinia events are now available online at http://www.ravinia.org/. Orders are also being accepted now by fax at (847) 266-0641 or through mail by sending a printable online order form and payment to Ravinia Festival, P.O. Box 896, Highland Park, IL 60035. Phone orders at (847) 266-5100 and walk-up sales are accepted throughout the season Monday-Saturday10 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Sundays and holidays (closed July 4) 1 p.m. to 6 p.m. Ravinia Festival is located at Lake Cook and Green Bay roads in Highland Park .

New Kid on The Block

It may not have the history of the Grant Park Music Fest or Ravinia, but Lollapalooza quickly became a legendary festival with a huge following. The third annual GALApalooza, benefiting Parkways Foundation and produced by C3 Presents, will be held Thursday, August 6^that 6 p.m. at the Petrillo Band Shell in Grant Park. The concert space is transformed into a lounge-like atmosphere prior to the Lollapalooza festivities. While crews are making final preparations for the legendary festival, GALA-goers will enjoy a chic, open air cocktail party with outdoor lounge seating, an intimate and creative dining experience, and a concert featuring Lollapalooza artist Vampire Weekend, whose self-titled album was dubbed the 10^th best album of 2008 by Rolling Stone Magazine. GALApalooza and Lollapalooza will be their only U.S. shows this year. Chicago sensation Hey Champ, who is opening for Depeche Mode on the Lollapalooza main stage, will take the stage to treat guests to a l set. In addition, GALApalooza features sounds from DJ White Shadow, performances by Park District Kids, and a silent auction and raffle featuring priceless VIP experiences.  

The James hotel is offering a special overnight package on August 6 which includes two general admission tickets to GALApalooza, overnight accommodations in a king guestroom, and valet parking at The James Hotel. Rates start at $579. For more information or to book this package visit http://www.jameshotels.com/. 

Lounge experiences are available at the $2,500, $5,000 and $10,000 level and single tickets are available for $150. For more information on sponsorship opportunities or to make reservations, please call Alison Krzys , Director of Communications for Parkways Foundation at 312-742-4807 or visit http://www.parkways.org/.

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KANE! Patrick not looking Sharp this Series

Paul M. Banks a.k.a. The Sports Bank, NBC Chicago Street Team

In Kane and Sharp, the Chicago Blackhawks possess two young star forwards named Patrick. “Sharpie” the lesser known of the two, is having a much better Western Conference Finals than “Kaner.” Down 3-1 to the Detroit Red Wings, the Hawks will need both of them, (and more reinforcements) to be on their A game if Chicago is going to stand any chance of advancing to the Stanley Cup Finals. Sharp is often overshadowed by Kane, the 2008 Calder Memorial Trophy winner and face-of-the-franchise, but it was Sharpie who was on pace to lead the team in goals this season before being sidelined by injury down the stretch.
Kaner is having a rough series, sporting an ugly -7 in the +/- department, and he didn’t even make it onto the score sheet until notching a game 4 assist. Red Wings Coach Mike Babcock talked about how his team shut down Kane.

“Till today we always played Nick (All-Star defenseman Nicklas Lidstrom) against him. Today, we didn’t have that option so we just try to play a really good five man unit and limit their touches the best we can. I think Osgood did a good job, but you’re never going to shut a guy like that down totally with the amount of skill level he has. I thought the other night in game three even though he didn’t get on the sheet, I thought that line with Byufglien and Toews dominated the shifts territorally- just couldn’t get the puck in the net,” Babcock said

As ugly as the 6-1 game four home loss to Detroit was, both young stars have breakout game performances in their recent memory.
Before entering this current slump, Kane recorded his first career hat trick in game 6 of the Western Conference Seminfinals, in eliminating the Vancouver Canucks. After the exciting 7-5 win, Kane told the media the criticisms from Canucks defenceman Willie Mitchell fired him up. “I got a wake-up call from old Willie Mitchell over there. He made some comments saying I couldn’t play five on five, I don’t know if you want to fire up a player like that. I scored three goals five-on-five, so you’ll have to ask him about that one,” Kane said.
Friday night, Sharp was the number one star of the conference finals’ game three with two goals, including the overtime game winner. That was pretty exciting to be in the building at that point, I’ve had some double overtime ones in the minors but, it was pretty loud when the puck went in and it was exciting,” Sharp said in describing perhaps the biggest night of his career. Both Patricks will need to have more games like that as Chicago faces elimination.

See more of Paul M. Banks’ work at the Washington Times, Walter Football.com and The Sports Bank

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Word on The Street: Tilt This!

Marcus Riley, NBC Chicago Street Team

Watch the weekly “Word On The Street” segment on 24/7 Chicago: Secrets of the City,” at 12:35 a.m. Saturday nights.

This week’s Word on the Street segment took us to the brand new Tilted Kilt sports bar, which just opened up at 17 N. Wabash. It’s a franchise that’s growing quickly all over the country, and they hope to have more than 50 by the end of the year. Think Hooters with kilts and you start getting the idea. Click here for more information.

When you were a kid, M&Ms simply referred to candy, but now you can enjoy the adult version — margaritas and mojitos. One of the best places to enjoy these summertime treats is at C-View Lounge in the Affinia Hotel. Not only do you get one of the best views in the city, every Tuesday night they host a margarita bar and on Wednesdays, it’s all about the mojitos. A DJ also keeps things moving.

Slowly but surely, Chicago is starting to make a name for itself on the fashion scene. See the next generation of local designers at the Fashion Cafe Series at the Chicago Cultural Center. The monthly event brings boutiques and designers together for an evening of shopping and a discussion led by a member of the local fashion community. All events are free and open to the public.

If you’d like to take a culinary tour of Italy right here in Chicago, look no further than the South Loop. The newly-opened Via Ventuno takes you through a different region of Italy one week out of each month. It’s a $29 four-course dinner with an optional wine flight. Log on to their Web site to see which part of Italia you can eat your way through next month. Salute!

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Dale Tallon: Architect of Blackhawks Renaissance

Paul M. Banks a.k.a. The Sports Bank, NBC Chicago Street Team

Heading into 2008-09, the season of Chicago Blackhawks renaissance, it was thought in certain circles that Hawks General Manager Dale Tallon could be on the way out. Tallon was more Bill Wirtz’s guy than he was Rocky Wirtz’s guy. After NHL coaching legend Scotty Bowman joined the Hawks organization (pronounced “organ-I-zation” in Canadian English) as Senior Advisor of Hockey Operations, rumors swirled that Tallon might be replaced by Bowman’s son, assistant GM of Hockey Operations, Stan Bowman.
Today however, Tallon is sitting pretty as the blueprint for success he drafted has guided the Hawks much further along the postseason path than anyone expected. After advancing to their first Conference Final since 1995, (where they’re currently down 2-1 to the Red Wings), Tallon spoke about his team, the youngest in the league, climbing the ladder much faster than expected

“The sooner the better is fine with me. I don’t want to wait any longer, it’s been fun and I’m proud of these kids, this is the greatest group of kids I’ve been around; on and off the ice,” Tallon said.

Tallon’s first season as GM was tumultuous. After the 2004–05 NHL season was canceled due to labor issues, a new collective bargaining agreement was signed. This created a new financial structure and many rule changes intended to yield higher scoring games. In response, Tallon reshaped the team, but most of his free agents never panned out and the Hawks finished 14th in the 15-team Western Conference.

However, since then he turned the Blackhawk franchise around (the Hawks are the only team in the NHL to improve their win total each of the past four years) by drafting young talents Jonathan Toews, Patrick Kane and also acquiring stars Patrick Sharp and Kris Versteeg. Tallon recently spoke about the traits possessed by his young nucleus. “Their impeccable character- they’re beyond their years as far as composure and intelligence…they’re way ahead of their time as far the mental aspect of it, their maturity impresses me,” Tallon said before later commenting on his team’s versatility:

“This is a team that can play any style, it you want to play it tough, we’ll play it tough, if you want to play speed, up-tempo, we’ll do that too. I think people underestimate how strong and resilient these kids are.” Chicago’s deep playoff run has been great for hockey ratings on television, and the NHL could certainly use this boost. Perhaps the Blackhawks’ rebirth, led in part by the young stars Dale Tallon drafted, will help improve the league’s damaged Q rating. Tallon spoke about the plethora of current young NHL stars.

“As hockey fans we’re in a great era right now. You see Crosby perform and Ovechkin and Malkin, and you see Backstrom in Washington and everyday we get to see Kane and Toews and don’t forget we’ve got some other young guys in Bolland, Brouwer, and Byfuglien, you can go down the list…we’re very fortunate in this era to be able to witness such young players excel at such a young age,” Tallon stated.

See more of Paul M. Banks’ work at the Washington Times, Walter Football.com and The Sports Bank

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Parades, Fireworks, and Cyclin’ On The Drive

Theresa Carter, The Local Tourist, NBC Chicago Street Team

Ah, Memorial Day. For Chicagoans it’s like a get out of jail free, do pass go, do collect $200 card. This weekend is the start of the season that keeps people here year-round, and since it’s coming a little early it’s like we’ve got a few more aces up our sleeves (mixed card metaphors, but you get my meaning, right?).

What better way to welcome the summer than with not one parade, but two? We always like to spend the entire weekend celebrating, and Saturday’s the city’s Memorial Day parade, then Monday is the 46th Annual WOOGMS parade. That stands for Wellington Oakdale Old Glory Marching Society, and in this parade, everybody gets their marching orders. Meet at the corner of Pine Grove and Wellington and wear comfortable shoes. Can’t make it to this one? That’s OK; they do it on Labor Day also.

Bike The Drive

Sunday’s another parade, of sorts. This time the route is Lake Shore Drive, and the participants are cyclists. Bike The Drive shuts down LSD to motorized vehicles as thousands of bicycles share the scenic road. While you’re there, join “Team Diabetes” Tour de Cure to raise money for the American Diabetes Association. That night head up to the gorgeous and historic Copernicus Center for Jammin’ For A Cure. This is a concert featuring Chicago Acoustic Underground alumni and raising money for the Rolfe Pancreatic Cancer Foundation. If you’d like to go, let me know and I’ll have tickets waiting for you!

Another sign that summer’s here is the Navy Pier fireworks. The free show kicks off the summer with lakefront performances on both Saturday and Sunday, and then take place every Wednesday and Saturday until Labor Day.

Have a great weekend!

Theresa

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Randolph Street Market Festival’s Grand Opening

Laura Lodewyck, NBC Chicago Street Team

Be among the first to visit the return of the Randolph Street Market Festival in this weekend’s Grand Opening event. Featuring an eclectic array of vendors such as the Chicago Antique Market, Indie Designer Market, Fancy Food Market, Vinyl Swap Meet, and Global Good Bazaar, the market attracts shoppers hip to items both ultra-unique and fashion-savvy. Even Oprah’s getting into the action for the first time this year, bringing The Oprah Store’s specialty items into the mix.  Add to your antique collection, get an heirloom sized up by a professional appraiser, hit the bar for a bloody mary, and even make some extra cash yourself by bringing in your unwanted gold jewelery to be sold onsite.

Courtesy trolleys will take you to the Festival from Water Tower Place at the top of the hour from 11am to 3pm (and cart you back with your loot every half hour 11:30 to 4:00). Check out the legendary extravangza for $10 general admission (which earns you a shopping refund voucher with your admisison), or “see for free” the final two hours of the market.

Email me at llodewyck@nudehippo.com and check out my reports with Nude Hippo at NBCChicago.com.

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