My Bike Betty

Category: Theaters, Festivals, Music, Parades

• When Communities Gather

  Posted at 5:17 pm by jan, on August 5, 2014

  

  Wrigley Field, 1060 W. Addison

  Inhibition: I’ve always avoided sport events because I think  I’m not interested and in a sense, I feel out of place. With that said, I don’t really know why so I’ve been challenging myself to check out a few games. This week, baseball! Then thereafter Betty and I are headed to Uptown and check out their Night Market.

  Betty’s Response: Two words…hot dogs!

  Experience: Thursday, July 31 Colorado Rockies vs. Chicago Cubs, 1:20pm at Wrigley Field. My seat, gate F, aisle 412, row 3, seat 8…

  

  One hot dog, a bag of chips, and a collectors cup of soda 🙂

  

  My new baseball friends. These Cubs fans have been have been coming together for 20 years to support their team. Today a Cubs victory! Final score Cubs 3 Rockies 1!

  

  Next! Argyle Night Market, Argyle Street (5000 N) from Sheridan Rd. on the east (1000 W) to Kenmore Ave, Thursdays 5-9pm (July 10-September 4).

  

  Executive Director Keith McCormick (left) and his welcome crew in support of Uptown’s progress along with Business Partners, The Chamber for Uptown.

  

  An open invitation for all to Drum! Thanks to Keith for getting this snap so I could participate.

  

  Dinner!

  

  Drinks!

   

   

  

  And works of art on the way home!

  What I didn’t know: That regardless of a baseball game or a neighborhood gathering, when communities come together and celebrate what they love life is so much more fulfilling and you can’t help but feel like you belong (White sox, you’re next!).

  Also check out http://www.ChicagoSculptureExhibit.org for a guide to the 13th Annual Sculpture Exhibit that takes place in Lincoln Park, Lakeview, Rogers Park, Uptown, Jefferson Park, Portage Park and Gladstone Park.

  And so as Betty and I sign off for now we extend to you an invitation to get out there and SHOW ME WHAT YOU DON’T KNOW!

   

   

  Posted in An Extension To All, Eats, Theaters, Festivals, Music, Parades | 0 Comments | Tagged Argyle Night Market, Chicago Cubs

• Logan Square Auditorium and The Schlitz Bouts

  Posted at 6:16 pm by jan, on July 21, 2014

  

  Betty and I park at Billie Sunday’s and I take off around the corner to Logan Square Auditorium

  Inhibition: I’ve never really understood the interest in boxing. I’m a little squeemish about the whole idea.

  Betty’s Response: It’s a sport! Played by two consenting adults…who train to fight!

  Experience: July 17th I attended The Schlitz Bouts, in conjunction with Chicago Boxing Club and The Inconvenience, held at Logan Square Auditorium. The theme of the event was the roaring 20’s/30’s and “boxing’s golden age.”

  

  Logan Square Auditorium, 2539 N Kedzie Blvd

  

  The Line Up!

  

  Entering this beautiful auditorium I was greeted by the sounds of Big Shoulders Brass Band

  

  …and how about a tasty Schlitz from a dapper gent?!

  

  Oysters on the half shell…YUM!

  

  The Galaxie Girls dancing it up!

  

  Then boxing…

  

  a champion…

  

  and more boxing…

  

  and a final champion ABLAZE with victory!!! (ok, so I know this photo is horrible however, it is proof positive I grasped the excitement of boxing!

  

  Comedian and actor, Stephen Derosa from Boardwalk Empire told a few jokes…

  

  The Fly Honey Burlesque Dancers…

  

  Magician Brett Schneider swallowed needles along with a separate piece of thread. He then pulled the thread back out of his mouth and the needles were magically tied to the thread!!

  

  And my favorite of all…Pokey Lafarge and his 5 piece band. This band is super fantastic, check them out, http://www.pokeylafarge.net.

  What I didn’t know: Wholly cow! This event was SSSSOOOOO much fun and was an unbelievable $17 bucks! I had NO idea how exciting boxing is. Granted no one got really hurt or looked badly beaten up (each match was 3 rounds) so that may be why I enjoyed it so much. Still the enthusiasm of the fighters was thrilling and in no way did I ever feel like one was a victim or abuse was occurring. It was awesome and couple the great fights with dance, burlesque, comedy, magic, beer, and incredible music makes for a very awesome night and has kept a smile on my face ever since.

  Woo!!! Ok now! Betty and I are off but first extending a big ole invite to get out there and SHOW ME WHAT YOU DON’T KNOW!!!

   

  Posted in An Extension To All, Theaters, Festivals, Music, Parades | 0 Comments | Tagged Logan Square Auditorium, Pokey Lafarge, Schlitz Beer

• Juxtaposition This!!!

  Posted at 6:40 pm by jan, on July 11, 2014

  Inhibition: To try Ethiopian food and then check out one of the most famous jazz spots in Chicago…alone.

  Betty’s Response: Every day people eat food and listen to music, geez.

  Experience: This week I headed over to Broadway and Lawrence for a double hitter, Demera Ethiopian Restaurant and across the street, The Green Mill Jazz Lounge.

  

  Demera Ethiopian Restaurant, 4801 N. Broadway St.

  

  A Sambussa Sampler, dumplings stuffed separately with tuna, chicken, lentils, beef, and spinach along side an order of Ambasha, a traditional mildly sweet skillet baked bread served with Ayib be Gomen – ethiopian cheese flavored with collard greens.

  

  The Green Mill Lounge, 4802 N. Broadway St.

   

   

  

  Thursday nights, The Alan Gresik Swing Shift Orchestra 9pm-1am $6 bucks

  What I Didn’t Know: Well first of all I had no idea that across the street from the Green Mill was an Ethiopian Restaurant. So when Betty and I arrived at the jazz club and discovered it I mustered up an appetite and headed on over. Completely clueless, the wait staff was very friendly and helpful when describing dishes and flavors. The sampler I had was super delicious and as I was enjoying it I saw several full size dinners I wanted to try on my next visit.

  And although I did know the Green Mill’s long history of  incredible jazz, and its reputation a hangout for Al Capone and his gangster crews, I didn’t know the Green Mill opened in 1907 as Pop Morse’s Roadhouse and was revitalized in the 70’s when becoming home to Uptown Poetry Slam (currently held on Sundays from 7-9pm). Lastly, I thoroughly enjoyed the big band sounds that radiate every Thursday featuring The Alan Gresik Swing Shift Orchestra…not to mention the dancers who GET DOWN!

  I also didn’t know that even though I initially felt uncomfortable walking in and sitting down alone at the bar, at both places, I enjoyed myself so much that in was completely worth it.

  Alright! Betty and I are off and on to our next experience but first extending to you…GET OUT THERE AND SHOW ME WHAT YOU DON’T KNOW PEOPLE!!!!!

   

  Posted in An Extension To All, Museums, Galleries, Cultural Centers, Theaters, Festivals, Music, Parades | 0 Comments | Tagged Demera Ethiopian Restaurant, The Green Mill

• 101 Ways to Fall in Love

  Posted at 6:42 pm by jan, on June 9, 2014

  

  Studio BE, 3110 N Sheffield

  

  Feeling very strong, Doug Albers, Artistic Director of Bard and Fool Theater Group

  

  The Incredible Cast!

  Inhibition: I’m reluctant to attend a play that features one of my good friends. I want to be supportive and enthusiastic but earlier this week I read a review that was pretty rough. What if after the play she asked me what I thought and I agree with the review?

  Betty’s Response: Opinions are like…well you know, everybody’s got one.

  Experience: This week I attended the play, 101 Ways to Fall in Love by Jason B. Williams (also directed by) and Noelle A. Schmitt. The talented cast are Ben Veatch, Andrea Lattanzio (my bud 3rd from the left), Deanna DeMay, Meghan Powe, Tiffany Streng, Jordan Levin, Neil Arsenty, Susan Brummet, Sean Goldrick, Laura Deger, and Tim Lee. This two and a half hour comedy reinacts 101 true love stories and, for the record, I loved them all! Not only did I giggle throughout the play but there were very touching stories of heartbreak and disappointment we can all relate to. Afterwards my friend and I had a celebratory martini and it was incredibly easy to convey what a wonderful job she and the cast did along with my affection for the colaborative collection of love stories. My only regret is for all those who won’t see it (thanks for nothing bad review guy).

  

   

   

  

  On a side note…the bathroom mirror reminded me of an Anish Kapoor piece 🙂

  So as always Betty and I are extending to you a big ole invitation to get out there and …SHOW ME WHAT YOU DON’T KNOW!!!!

  Posted in An Extension To All, Theaters, Festivals, Music, Parades | 0 Comments | Tagged Studio BE

• Discovering History

  Posted at 5:54 pm by jan, on June 2, 2014

  

  Vivian Maier’s Chicago
  Chicago History Museum, 1601 N Clark Street

   

   

   

  

  One of Maier’s Rolleiflex Cameras

   

   

   

   

   

   

   

  Inhibition: I bet the Chicago History Museum will be all about the great fire in 1871 and sports.

  Betty’s Response: …and you got this information where?

  Experience: This week I checked out the street photography of Vivian Maier exhibited at the Chicago History Museum. I first became aware of her work from a co-worker who had read an article about her in the newspaper. Only known as a nanny when living, her photography was discovered by John Maloof in 2007 just two years prior to her death.

  Later that evening I saw the documentary, Finding Vivian Maier at none other than my favorite theater, Logan Theater.

  

  The Maloof Collection, Vivian Maier

  

  The Maloof Collection, Vivian Maier

  

  The Maloof Collection, Vivian Maier

  

  The Maloof Collection, Vivian Maier

  

  The Maloof Collection, Vivian Maier (my favorite in this exhibition)

  What I didn’t know: That although there’s an impressive sports history exhibit, the museum is as diverse as Chicago. A few exhibits are…in the Exelon Wing you can explore one of the original L-car trains (along with a brief overview of Chicago’s great fire) and get a better understanding of Chicago’s industrial history. Exploring the five senses in the Koen Family Children’s Gallery is simulated experiences like, catching a fly ball at Comisky Park. And considering Chicago his second home and political headquarters, the Alcoves gallery features President Lincoln’s connections to Chicago. Oh and before I move on to the Maier exhibition, I have to mention as you enter the museum you’re welcomed by a 1978 Chevrolet Monte Carlo lowrider…kewl!

  

  permanent exhibition Chicago: Crossroads of America

  

   

   

   

   

   

   

   

  The Maier exhibition is located in the KPMG and Paul and Katherine Snyder Community Gallery and I didn’t know how much I would feel a connection to these images. Perhaps it’s the perspective captured from her camera that typically shoots from the oporators mid-drift. There’s also an empathetic observation within the work that intrigues me…much like the photography of Diane Arbus.

  The documentary Finding Vivian Maier cannot be missed! The incredible journey John Maloof goes on to discover who Vivian Maier was, why she prolifically photographed and yet kept it a secret, why she was a nanny/caregiver, and her family history is as fascinating as her images.

  

  The Logan Theater, 2646 N Milwaukee Ave

  

  Alright! So for now Betty and I are off but as always extending to you the invitation to SHOW ME WHAT YOU DON’T KNOW!!!!!

   

   

   

   

   

   

   

   

   

   

   

   

  Posted in An Extension To All, Museums, Galleries, Cultural Centers, Theaters, Festivals, Music, Parades | 2 Comments | Tagged Chicago History Museum, Vivian Maier

• Garfield Conservatory and the Craft Brewers Guild

  Posted at 6:44 pm by jan, on May 19, 2014

   

  

  Garfield Park Conservatory and 2014 Beer Under Glass, 100 N Central Park Ave

  Inhibition: To attend a good time solo…shouldn’t delicious beer, cheers, and nature be shared with friends?

  Betty’s Response: Beer,cheers, and nature are your friends…grow up.

  Experience: This past Thursday the Garfield Park hosted over 60 Illinois Craft Brewers and several food vendors for the annual Beer Under Glass event. Although it was a chilly 45 degrees, and the grounds were super soggy, the tasty double IPA’s and Porters kept me warm and eager to move on to the next brewer. 

  And let’s not forget about the beautiful and lush conservatory greenhouse, lovely gardens,and landscapes . After this brutal winter being surrounded by plants and flowers was a sorely needed. 
  

   

   

   

  

                                      What I didn’t know: That Betty was right, nature and beer are totally your friends and so much so that you don’t even mind when your favorite boots are as soggy as the ground.   Woo! So Betty and I are out for now but as always extending a great big invitation to all…SHOW ME WHAT YOU DON’T KNOW!!!!
  

  Posted in An Extension To All, Eats, Theaters, Festivals, Music, Parades | 0 Comments | Tagged Garfield Park Conservatory

• CIMM FEST…heavy metal style!

  Posted at 5:41 pm by jan, on May 3, 2014

  Inhibition: After a 60 hour work week, I’m beat. It’s Friday 11:00pm, Betty and I are on the train home and I’ve done nothing this week for the project. I’m thinking of getting off the train along Milwaukee Avenue where many theaters and bars are hosting film and music events for CIMM FEST. Because this makes me uncomfortable to have no plans I hesitate.

  Betty’s Response: We’re getting off the train right now…you know Logan Theater is hosting some of the event cry baby so we’ll go there.

  

  Back to Logan Square Theater for a CIMM FEST film.

  Experience: Although I was late, I got in on the Chicago premier of the documentary, The Last Kamikazis of Heavy Metal. Based in Chicago, heavy metal band Hessler hits the road on tour. Now let me be honest here and say I don’t have a huge collection of heavy metal (none) however, I do have a love of music, and more specifically, a deep appreciation of why music appeals to us individually.  With that said, the comments made throughout the film from lead/rhythm guitarist Frankie (Snakes) Sripada were humble expressions that I could relate to as an artist. And get this!!!!! That dude was there! I met him on my way back from the bathroom! Ha! Not only is this guy a badass guitarist but he is super keeewwwllll!

  

  The Last Kamikazis of Heavy Metal

  

  Hessler lead/rhythm guitar and backing vocals Frankie (Snakes) Sripada

  OK!! So Betty and I are out for now but extending a big invitation to YOU…get out there and SHOW ME WHAT YOU DON’T KNOW!!!!

  

  CIMM FEST WOO!

  Posted in An Extension To All, Theaters, Festivals, Music, Parades | 0 Comments | Tagged CIMM fest chicago, Logan Square Theater

• Feliz Cumpleanos

  Posted at 4:58 pm by jan, on April 28, 2014

  Inhibition: To attend a work aquaintance birthday party…Easter day…will I fit in?  In a big ole city with few friends and no family the only Easter gathering invitation I recieved was from a workmate to attend a party equipped with a traditional Mexican band, tasty food and beverages, and dancing!

  Betty’s Response: You’re going.

  Experience: This week I attended a birthday party at Chitown Futbol. This facility offers two indoor soccor fields, a gym, and an event area that accommodates a concession stand, band set-up, dancing and several picnic tables. All were utilized that night as we wished our friend Juan a very happy birthday, danced it up to authentic live Mexican music, and had a toast or two.

  

  Chitown Football
  2255 S Throop St.

   

  

  The Cuaco Musical Group

   

  

  Happy Birthday Juan!

   

   

   

   

   

  

  Working on my moves with Felipe

   

   

   

   

   

   

   

  What I didn’t know: I had no idea what a great community of friends and family gather here regularly (to play soccer) and how welcome I would feel as I was greeted by everyone. And even though the guys didn’t play soccer that night, I now have a better understanding it’s their love for the game, team work, and community that contributes to the fantastic employees and friends they all are.

   

  So a big extension to all…SHOW ME WHAT YOU DON’T KNOW!!!

   

  A side note, what I do know is how wonderful Logan Square Theater is! Originally built in 1915, and family owned throughout the years, thoughtful renovations have preserved the soul of the theater by revealing beautiful details like the stained glass at the theater’s entrance.

  

  Logan Square Theater will host several events/films as part of next week’s CIMM FEST!
  2646 N Milwaukee

  

  A cozy full bar/lounge

  

  In the women’s lounge an original film storage unit

  

  ps Wes Anderson’s, The Grand Budapest Hotel is wonderful in every story telling way!

   

   

   

   

  Posted in An Extension To All, Theaters, Festivals, Music, Parades | 0 Comments | Tagged Chitown Football Chicago

• The International Latino Cultural Center and a Film

  Posted at 6:22 pm by jan, on April 19, 2014

  Inhibition: Will I be interested or have any connection with today’s agenda.

  Betty’s response: Please…you’re like the neighborhood kid who won’t go home.

  Experience: Today I’m seeking out The International Latino Cultural Center and then heading over to the AMC Theater for a film at the 30th Chicago Latino Film Festival.

  

  The International Latino Cultural Center, 676 N. Lasalle Drive, Suite 520

   

   

   

  

  The cultural center and non-for-profit, since 1987, represents more than 20 Latino nations and what we all share in common.

  

  Attending the film, I am from Chile

   

  

  Director Gonzalo Diaz and lead actress Paulina Garcia

  What I didn’t know: That I would immediately connect with the gracious and welcoming staff at the cultural center. Working hard to fund and establish a cultural complex to represent multiple art disciplines, the center is currently only offices. Having been associated with non-for-profits that represent the arts, I could relate to the financial struggle and the challenges to continually progress. So it was very inspiring to learn about the evolution of the center. Originally the Chicago Latino Cinema the organization changed it’s name in 1999 to convey their representation of multiple Latino cultural events. Still, the Chicago Film Festival in it’s 30th year is their largest event (http://latinoculturalcenter.org/about/).

  As for the film festival, hosted by the AMC River East 21, I thoroughly enjoyed the film I am from Chile and even more the question/answer discussion at the end of the film. An original screenplay by Gonzalo Diaz, he spoke of his passion for directing the film including the personal and financial sacrafices necessary to see the film made. Actress Paulina Garcia also spoke of her affection for the story and why she agreed to play the lead for a “first-time film” director.

  So for now Betty and I are out but extending to all…SHOW ME WHAT YOU DON’T KNOW!!!

  Posted in An Extension To All, Theaters, Festivals, Music, Parades | 0 Comments | Tagged Chicago Film Festival, The International Latino Cultural Center

• Tunes and Dancing North of England/Scotland Style

  Posted at 6:07 pm by jan, on April 14, 2014

  

  Old Town School of Folk Music, 4544 N. Lincoln

  Inhibition: To attend a dance without a partner.

  Betty’s Response: Dance by yourself.

  Experience: This week I danced with a great group of people to the awesome music of Folkestra, a regional youth folk band from North of England and Scotland. This group is part of Old Town School of Music’s Global Dance Party series. Each Friday night at 8 the evening begins with a dance lesson associated and accompanied by music from around the world. After the lesson everyone whoops it up for another 2 hours!

  

  Folkestra

  What I didn’t Know: That the dance associated with this particular band would be more of a community dance that often reminded me of a country square dance I attended when I was a kid. And speaking of kids, there were lots of families there and the children had a ball. It was so fun watching them hop, skip, and laugh along side the adults (who were doing the exact same thing :). Mostly what I want to say is there was real joy in that room and a sense of community that absolutely warmed the heart…a much needed feeling in this giant Chicago city.

  So for now Betty and I are out but extending the invitation to all to get out there and SHOW ME WHAT YOU DON’T KNOW!!!

  On a side note and what I do know…

  The, I Paint My Mind Gallery located in The Green Exchange building at  2545 W. Diversey, Suite 255 exhibition opening of Dustin Harris’ Alter Egos opened the 10th.

  

  Dustin Harris

  

  

  Tim Jarosz

  

  Tim Jarosz

   

   

   

   

  Posted in An Extension To All, Theaters, Festivals, Music, Parades | 0 Comments | Tagged I Paint My Mind Gallery Chicago, Old Town School of Folk Music, The Green Exchange Building Chicago

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