(CHI) NBC5 Street Team Blog

Do you throw Events, Meetings or Parties?

2008-04-01T17:33:00.005-06:00

Jim Grillo, Hereschicago.com, NBC5 Street Team

Do you throw parties or special events? I do and I learned the hard way when I was trying to provide an online registration tool to register every one for the events. I tried EVITE which is a free registration tool. I am sure you heard of it. However, my database was just too large for the "free" tool in EVITE so I found CVENT! Wow, I am glad I did. I live and breed this online registration tool now.

If you throw larger meetings and/or events (over 100), I strongly suggest taking a look at CVENT. I am in no way vested in this company, but, I am "hooked" on their service for my parties that I throw for our organization.

Take a look at the video interview from Meeting Professionals International Conference in Houston with the executives of CVENT. I stopped by their booth to learn about this alternative to EVITE and I was happy to hear their is a cool solution to register my event attendees. While it is not "free", it will free you up with time and headaches when producing larger meetings, parties or events.

Jim

Sexy Night of Music this Friday

2008-03-27T14:10:00.002-06:00

Shreyas Shah, NBC5 Street Team

A record release party that I highly recommend this week:

Funky Couture presents "The American Boogie Down" record release party!

The second installment of Chicago's Still Music monthly residency at The Victor Hotel celebrates the worldwide release of "The American Boogie Down", Jerome Derradji's disco boogie mix CD for London's famed BBE records. Jerome will be stepping back into the past to showcase the genres that shaped modern dance culture, mixing rare disco, boogie, and vintage house. 9 - 10pm Effen cocktail & sushi reception.

RSVP to www.funkycouture.net

Friday, March 28th
The Victor Hotel (311 N. Sangamon)
9 - 2am

This week's band: A Birdsong Valentine

2008-03-25T08:09:00.003-06:00

The Local Tourist, NBC5 Street Team

Ya' just never know what kind of music is going to be featured on The Local Tourist. Last week, a singer/songwriter with quirky lyrics and folksy guitar. This week, a hard rock band with occasional screams and a need for earplugs.

I've known the lead singer/screamer of this rock band for awhile. I'd met Brian Bender as the sound guy at Elbo Room and only later learned that his band was A Birdsong Valentine. Upon finding that out I promptly punched him in the arm and told him that I'd been trying to feature them for a year now. He rubbed his arm, grinned sheepishly, and promised me a CD.

So here they are. Warning: this is hard rock. This particular song is one of their "lighter" ones, if that gives you any indication.

Their next Chicago show is March 29 at Elbo Room. After that they'll be at Cubby Bear on April 11 and Reggies Rock Club on May 10.

Opinion Polls & Market Research

Why Chicago is cool this week?

2008-03-21T17:23:00.002-06:00

Laura Lodewyck, NBC5 Street Team / NudeHippo.tv

I love Chicago. I really do. Even despite disturbingly frigid weather, my temptations to succumb to acute road rage, and the crazy people screaming outside my window demanding that St. Patrick’s Day become a two-week-long, nationally sanctioned holiday…Yes, it’s still a mind-bogglingly cool place to live.

I don't want to sound like a New Yorker here: “the people, the prices, the places are kind of totally obnoxious, but I Heart This City -- it’s better than Yours! (Disclaimer: Not that I have anything against New Yorkers -- other than a totally arbitrary semi-allegiance to the Boston Red Sox due to my husband’s Massachusetts upbringing…sorry.)

But let’s face it: Those New Yorkers and those LA-ians (or whatever you'd call them)…they think they're better than us. Yes, they do! To them, we're “fly-over country”, or some such nonsense. As if the fact that you live on the coast qualifies you for some special offer that us bumpkins can't reach through our singular form of transportation, the old-time railroad system. I mean, we must communicate through tin cans on strings and beat our laundry down on rocks at the river!

Get real. Chicago is versatile, wild-crazy-fun, AND affordable. Plus, I live here and I have a blog so I can talk about it if I want to. I can use ridiculous phrases like “wild-crazy-fun”. I can even end my sentences with prepositions if I want to. Deal with it. (Or go write your own blog about it, I don't care!)

Anyway, after much fanfare, here are just a few reasons why Chicago is cool this week:

What’s cooler than an emaciated model trying to carry a watering can?
Fleurotica! No, I didn't just make that word up. It’s a runway show where the models wear fashion created from plants, leaves, flowers, and other water-able botanicals. The event is to honor Garfield Park Conservatory’s 100th anniversary this Friday, March 28. Don't tell me that you're not tempted to see how they hold a top made out of calla lilies together—at it’s best, it’s got to be fashion wonder; at its worst, it’s bound to be wardrobe malfunction heaven!

And when’s the last time you saw some really good burlesque?

The Flaming Dames, Chicago’s very own concept burlesque troupe, has been performing their new take on burlesque for five years now. Like NAFTA, nobody really knows what burlesque is all about (oh, just admit it). Experience it for yourself and see their new show, ‘Vegas Baby’, playing Friday nights beginning April 4th.

And lastly: Meet Saturday at 2 p.m. in front of the Art Institute for a Pillow Fight of epic proportions. That’s right, March 22 is Global Pillow Fight Day. Not national, GLOBAL. These P-F’s mean business. If you don't believe me, prepare for a fabric-softener induced concussion. Just kidding, it’s all fun and games at the Pillow Fight (what did you expect?)

Tell me your thoughts, opinions or complaints! E-mail me at NudeHippo@nbc5.com.

How Chicago Real Estate WorksGet Sued, Keep Buying Buildings. Mmm-K.

2008-03-21T17:07:00.002-06:00

Blagica S. Bottigliero, NBC5 Street Team (Video)

Yep, new last name.
Let's practice (boh-til-ee-yero). Cool? Cool. Let's move on.

Call me sentimental. Call me, oh I don't know, out there to help the little guy. Better than that, let's say that I call 'em how I see 'em and enjoying tying together a string of events for you fine people.

I wrote a previous post about a local developer named William Warman. His first LLC was being sued by the condo association over at 1717 S. Prairie (they are battling possible special assessments because of some construction issues). Since the LLC is separate from the individual, Mr. Warman went ahead and purchased a building at 300 N. Michigan Avenue. Ok, got it. LLC can be sued. Person that is associated with the LLC can go out and do what they want. Got it.

Next, I read an article last week that mentioned a current development of Mr. Warman's, this time at 830 S. Michigan Avenue, is having financial issues. Looks like Mr. Warman is being sued again - this time from the people that gave Renaissant Development Group LLC (his new LLC) the $4.25 million loan for the up and coming South Loop high-end digs. Yowza.

Now, let's get back to the property at 300 N. Michigan Avenue. I read another article that says Mr. Warman is seeking another round of investors for THIS building. Good grief.

Is it just me or is the theme song for Chicago real estate developers' : 'You Can't Touch This'?

Stevie Jay Takes DanceOFF Crown!

2008-03-20T15:51:00.000-06:00

ChiTown After Dark, NBC5 Street Team

It's been an exciting few weeks and now we finally have a winner of the ChiTown DanceOFF!

It went down to the wire, but Steve Jadown -- aka Stevie Jay -- was announced the winner of the ChiTown DanceOFF! competition Saturday at Maxum Bar and Grill.

Stevie Jay was given $1,000 prize for his efforts, although we're not sure how long it's going to last. He says the prize money will be used to buy some bottles for his buddies out on the town!

Images: Top 10 Dancers

Less than 50 votes separated the top four dancers. In a few weeks, ChiTown After Dark and NBC5.com will do it all over again with a new crop of dancers. Log on to www.nbc5.com/danceoff for updated information.

Check out Stevie Jay's winning routine below.

Pillow Fights, Easter, and Opera? Chicago Events 3/20 - 23

2008-03-19T18:19:00.001-06:00

The Local Tourist, NBC5 Street Team

"Things are so tough in Chicago that at Easter time, for bunnies the little kids use porcupines." Fred Allen, Much Ado About Me, 1956

Four words: International Pillow Fight Day. I'm not sure what more I can say about that. I could probably go on a few tangents, but I don't want to ruffle any feathers.

Unless, of course, they're Russian and there are tights and tutus involved. The Tchaikovsky Ballet & Orchestra is bringing its performance of Swan Lake to the Auditorium Theatre this weekend. I tell you, for a dead man, Tchaikovsky's got quite a presence in Chicago. His opera about a ne'er-do-well 19th century dandy, Eugene Onegin, is finishing the season at Lyric this month. I just posted my review today, so check it out.

When there's a dandy there should be a diva, and you can "Indulge Your Inner Diva" in the West Loop with cupcakes, shopping, jewelry, and of course, drinks. Acoustic divas can be heard at Acoustic Chicago's Friday Night Sessions. The women from the compilation effort CD, including TLT Featured Artist Jen Porter, will be at this limited-attendance event Friday night. I'll be there, so be sure to say hello if you get one of the few remaining tickets.

Another acoustic event I was at recently was Chicago Acoustic Underground's First House Concert. It was a wonderful, intimate evening and I strongly urge you to keep your eyes posted for the next one and RSVP early.

If St. Patrick's Day seems like ages ago and you're ready to jump right back into the pints, you're in luck. Sam's is having a beer tasting. Lagers, ales, porters, stouts - you name it, they're pouring it.

Have a great weekend!

Theresa

p.s. If you like the picture above, there are more to come. I have more than 50 from Taste of Chaos to format and they'll be up soon. Check the blog for updates. If you're interested in purchasing one, let me know.

Chicago Trivia: I'll Drink To That

2008-03-19T08:56:00.003-06:00

The Local Tourist, NBC5 Street Team

It's world water week, and UNICEF is raising money to provide clean water to children in developing nations. Many, many years ago the Chicago River was reversed to stop the pollution of Lake Michigan, where Chicagoans get their drinking water. When was this engineering feat achieved?

Email your answer and your mailing address to trivia@thelocaltourist.com

This week's prize is two tickets to Art 'N Soul, a wine and chocolate tasting featuring live music by Nina Rae N'Time. The event takes place on April 11 at Big City Swing and is hosted by 220 Communications.

Congratulations to Rachel S. She knew that the Chicago Journeymen Plumbers spill the dye into the river each year and she receives the framed photo that was chosen to appear in Schmap Guide To Chicago.

Free Fashion Party this Thursday @ Lumen

2008-03-19T07:52:00.004-06:00

Shreyas Shah, NBC5 Street Team

I'll admit it, its been a long time since I made a post. I believe I've had SAD (seasonal affective disorder). But for anyone and everyone reading this, I wanted to cordially invite you to a free fashion party I am having at Lumen (839 W. Fulton) tomorrow night! On top of all that, we have a hosted cocktail reception with your RSVP from 10 - 11pm courtesy of Qino One Vodka ( www.qino1.com)!

The concept of this monthly party is that people can go online to our website and vote for the theme of the next event. The winning option becomes the basis for the runway show that is put together by an amazing team of designers and stylists.

And for our premiere event, the winner is...'80s glamour!

New Wave romantics and '80s babies unite for a contemporary re-imagining of classic '80s style with a runway show featuring fashions from Solemates... Chicago. I strongly encourage you to come dressed in your own modern twist on what '80s style would look like today.

Detroit and Chicago legend DJ Tim Baker, creator of a legendary annual end-of-summer '80s party on Lake Michigan 8-years running, will serve as musical director for the night and will play a tasteful and eclectic set of '80s jams immediately after the runway show.

Cocktails courtesy of Qino One Vodka, a unique new premium spirit of uncompromising quality and taste, distilled in France and made from organic fair trade golden Royal quinoa grown in the Andes mountains.

If you're looking for a night of tasteful debauchery, strictly sexy music, and edgy fashion, Fashion Fetish is for you.

Lumen 839 West Fulton Market 10pm-2am

Ladies: Free w/RSVP
Gents: $5 w/RSVP (remember, you'll drink 5x in free vodka)

RSVP: http://rsvp.goodforparty.com

Join the Fight for Chicago Fashion!
Sign up for M.O., our free weekly fashion newsletter!

Interview with Master Impressionist/Comedian Tim Kilbride, "The Man of 1000 Voices"

2008-03-19T04:44:00.019-06:00

Jim Grillo, NBC5 Street Team

Tim Kilbride is the funniest person I have ever interviewed! Tim has appeared on Oprah, The Late Show with David Letterman, The Jonathan Brandmeier Show, Maury Povich, WGN, and many other shows. Enjoy this interview with Tim Kilbride who is a master impressionist, comedian, emcee, and motivational speaker. I didn't know at any time during this interview "who" was going to show up or whether I was interviewing Tim Kilbride or Johnny Carson, Bill Clinton, Muhammed Ali, Howard Coselle, Mike Tyson, Regis Philbin, Rocky Balboa, Ted Kennedy, Dr. Ruth or Ronald Reagan!

Tim, tell us about yourself - "I am a God given, very blessed human being. I have been "given'' an extremely awesome gift of making people laugh, while touching many lives in the process."

Who is your favorite celebrity? "Everyone I come in contact with is my favorite celebrity. If I had to narrow it down to one person, it would be Jesus Christ, who saved us all by shedding his blood on the cross at Calvary, so that you & I and mankind could enter the kingdom of Heaven."

What is your favorite part of your profession? "My favorite part of what I do is seeing the reaction on peoples faces when I do my voices, and making the audience an integral part of my show."

Where do you perform? "I perform on television, radio, tradeshows, corporate events, professional sports teams, private parties, golf outings, weddings, stage plays, and films. Oprah, Letterman, Comic View, Las Vegas, and WGN Channel 9 Morning Show 3 times."

Do you have nickname? "Nickname?" Man of a Thousand Voices", "White Chocolate","White Bread", "Timmy K"," The Impressionist", "The Chosen One", "Mr. Entertainment", "Mr. Carson"," Mr. Kennedy", to name a few."

What is your favorite TV show? "My favorite show on t.v. would probably be Oprah. I played Bill Clinton on Oprah's Show in 2003. Her show is of substance, values, morals, ethics, etc."

Where did you get your start? "I got started in show business at a very early age. I did impersonations of my teachers, aunts, uncles, family members. Ed Sullivan, Jimmy Stewart, Jack Benny, Johnny Carson, etc,."

Who do you thank for helping you in the "biz"? "The person I most thank for getting me into show business is not just one person. My family & friends all encouraged me that I had the talent to make it big
in entertainment."

You definately want to give this one a listen folks! Click play to listen to the podcast interview:

Check out Tim at Timkilbride.net

Jim

Cheap Date: Babaluci

2008-03-18T21:35:00.008-06:00

Hungry Z, NBC5 Street Team

Let's face it, dating is tough. First dates are even tougher. When it comes to dinner you don't wanna look cheap, but at the same time you don't want to spend a lot of cash on someone you might not be all that into. What you need is a family owned restaurant that's under the radar but offers quality food at the right price. One such place is "Babaluci" located at 1001 W. Golf in Hoffman Estates.

Step inside and your "date vibe" is evident. Dim lighting and small cozy tables give the dining room a warm and inviting feel. Service is designed to let you relax, enjoy your meal, and carry a conversation without ever feeling that you're lingering a little too long. The staff acts like they know right from the start and are very willing to share their opinions on both food and life in general.

None of this would matter if the food wasn't any good. Truth is, the food is very good. To start they have an excellent bruscetta that is loaded with garlic and balsamic or start with the panzanella salad that's loaded with Parmesan and pepporcinni's. For entres, they also have top notch chicken/veal vesuvio and marsala. Both are swimming in a pool of wine and served with fresh veggies. For dessert go for the cannoli's or my favorite, the pistacio tartafo. It's loaded with fresh whipped cream and more pistacio's than you know what to do with.

How's the value? Dinner for two should run about $60 with tip. That's a bargain for a date nowadays! But what if you didn't dig your date? Don't sweat it, at least you got a great meal and a few bucks left in your pocket.

Keeping Up With Kim Kardashian

2008-03-18T19:51:00.004-06:00

Marcus Riley, NBC5 Street Team (video)

Summer hasn't even started, but the list of things to do in Chicago is already starting to get overwhelming.

Enclave Nightclub appears to be getting an early jump on their competition by offering a solid lineup of entertainment on successive weeks. A couple of weeks ago it was Dannity Kane's album release party and last Saturday former Jane's Addiction guitarist Dave Navarro and DJ Skribble performed live. Unfortunately I got to Enclave just in time to see Navarro get into his limo on his way out the door. Memo to myself: If your friends can't get it together in time, leave them behind.

This weekend I won't make the same mistake. The voluptuous celebutante Kim Kardashian will be in the house hosting Psychedelic Lust: A Spring Fashion Show.

Kardashian, known for her reality series "Keeping Up With The Kardashians" and for her famous sex tape with Brandy's little brother, Ray J., will emcee the fashion show, which will feature Ford models and AKIRA fashions.

Cover is $10 before 10 P.M. and a reduced cover after 10 P.M. with flyer. For more information, visit http://www.enclavechicago.com/.

This week's band: Anna Vogelzang

2008-03-17T08:56:00.001-06:00

The Local Tourist, NBC5 Street Team

Lately I've been inundated with hard, heavy, ear-splitting rock. Over the last few weeks Chicago Metal Factory, Taste of Chaos, SOiL, Bobaflex and The Autumn Offering have given me neck aches from all the head-banging I've been doing. While I do love that genre, sometimes it's good to slow down a bit.

Anna Vogelzang is part of the singer/songwriter "family" in Chicago. I first heard her at Jeff Brown's birthday concert and got the full-fledged treatment when I co-hosted her podcast with Chicago Acoustic Underground. That show won't be out for a couple of weeks, but in the meantime listen to "Family Band". With her comfortable guitar playing and quirky lyrics it's the perfect way to relax and put a smile on your face.

Her next Chicago show is at Hotti Biscotti's (3545 W. Fullerton) open mic on March 26. And it's free!

Opinion Polls & Market Research

CD Review: November 5th, 1955 "Bears of the Sea"

2008-03-16T22:11:00.003-06:00

Maureen Vana, NBC5 Street Team

Last month marked the drop of November 5th, 1955's long awaited first release. "Bears of the Sea" is an instrumentally stimulating album with solid vocals and beautiful visual art making it a must buy, rather than a must download. The disk comes with a fold out page displaying artwork by Ken Stewart on one side and an intimate touch of handwritten lyrics on the other.

The album mirrors it's beautiful visual layout to the inspiring instrumental portions of the tracks. The precise layering and creative pacing of the songs encourages the listener to fall deep into the music's hypnotic spell. In it's harshness, the album produces a relaxing feel allowing for focus to be placed on the subtle notes and off kilter beats. The lyrics touch upon a theme of questioning faith and trust while promoting finding strength in oneself.

Vocally the group holds nothing exceptionally new with a screaming at times talking style. The richness of Jason M's voice and his awareness of his range allows for this to comfortably fall into place within the music. The vocals are at their best on tracks like "(S)march On" where Jason mixes it up by throwing more melody into his voice.

November 5th, 1955 is a band to put on your radar and look out for when they hit the road... hopefully soon! You can check them out at http://www.myspace.com/novemberfifth1955 and purchase "Bears of the Sea" on Ironclad Records at http://www.allinmerch.com/store/826561/page/1503451.

Track picks: "The Ambassador to Sarajevo", "Functionaries", "Precursor", "(S)march on"

Inner Peace. And Stupidity.

2008-03-14T23:11:00.002-06:00

Shlomi Rabi NBC5 Street Team

Rule Number One: Do Not Make Eye Contact. So on the occasion that one is potentially forced to share a long elevator ride, under no circumstances must one initiate, facilitate or simulate any form of physical engagement that could feasiby result in a rising level of tension and noticeable awkwardness.

Rule Number Two: Play It Cool. Should one be met with a familiar glance, a smile from a dashing gentleman, or even sense the commencement of a conversation, one is to keep a firm and cordial stance, answer with a simple "Sure dude" and perfect the ancient master skill of winking.

Rule Number Three: Do Not Lube Hands Prior to Assured Isolation. Crucial! In the event that the debonaire sexy neighbor on the elevator ride approaches, compliments and introduces himself, one is to wipe off all remaning liquids, creams, lotions and lubes off of one's hands on the first available surface, including a third party's coat. Creamy hands do not equal good impression. *sigh*....

Rule Number Four: Chocolate Helps! So in the event that you were unable to contain your burning queeniness, your inner dorkiness, your true awkwardness, your natural stammering AND your freshly-dipped-in-a-bucket-of-moisturizer hands all to yourself, you may want to try stopping for some good chocolate loving at the following venues:

Kopi-A Traveler's Cafe in Andersonville for some Mexican Hot Chocolate that will swiftly wash off that lump of stupid caught in your throat. Once that's been done, it is time to begin filling your stomach with good, solid chocolate loving. I personally recommend Vosges Chocolates on the Mag Mile Red Fire Brownie Single, which has enough peppers in it to burn off the shame, guilt and embarrassment, together with your esophagus, spleen and ego. It will be the wisest $5 you would have spent. Even that damn hands lube that got you into trouble cost more. And lastly, head back home to Lakeview, and go to Windy City Sweets for some Chocolate Caramel Nut Patties that will give you enough sugar, protein and power to run back to your building, stare at the elevator, and then choose to take the stairs thirty floors up instead.

(Please note: Originally there were twelve on my plate. You do the math.)

KeyLime Cove Makes Waves In Gurnee

2008-03-13T22:04:00.003-06:00

Janelle Rominski, NBC5 Street Team (Video)

KeyLime Cove, a brand-new tropical themed water park and resort, has opened in Gurnee. It was founded by Dave Anderson, the proprietor of Famous Dave’s.

KeyLime Cove features 414 resort-style guest suites and staterooms that are decorated with fun, fresh, bright colors and decorations. Thirty-two inch flat-screen televisions with cable are included in each room along with fluffy comforters and crisp bed linens. At nighttime, they turn down your bed sheets and place Godiva chocolate truffles on your bed for a delicious nighttime treat.

Included in each room stay are passes to KeyLime Cove's "Lost Paradise" water park, as admission into the water park is for resort guests only.

KeyLime Cove Photos

The 65,000-square-foot water park is packed with an assortment of wild and relaxing water entertainment options. There's a lazy river and whirlpool spa for the more low-key people. For the more exciting water enthusiasts, there are wave pools, water slides, and more.

KeyLime Cove features two restaurants that are open to the public. D.W. Anderson’s, located on the lower level, is an old-fashioned American-style restaurant. It serves pizza, burgers, and pies and features many varieties of ice cream. On the main level near the entrance is The Crazy Toucan Margarita Grille which serves seafood and has a full bar with ornate drinks.

The resort also includes an 8,000-square-foot arcade that’s open 24/7, “Riptide Arcade”.

"Sax" Appeal

2008-03-12T21:58:00.006-06:00

Erik Sorensen (Video)

A little change never hurt anybody; and it's a good thing, too. Because if it did, tomorrow's Grand Unveiling of Hotel Sax's $25 million renovation would pack a big enough wallop to leave anyone seeing stars.

Fresh off a complete overhaul which began in January 2007, the lavish hotel boasts a sleeker, more luxurious building, equipped with the latest technologies accommodation has to offer, including: a sixth floor technology lounge with tech butler and areas with the latest state of the art technologies and personal gaming consuls – from Xbox to Guitar Hero. How many places do you know of, where Bill Gates, Paris Hilton and Bam Margera could spend a night, and all leave smiling? Meet Hotel Sax.

Guests getting in on tomorrow's action will include the Gilda's board, Chicago VIPs, local politicians and industry heavyweights. Among the debut's attractions will be a unique musical experience by Jon Davis.

"Leveraging the latest in music technology, Jazz pianist Jon Davis will perform a ‘remote’ piano performance at Hotel Sax Chicago
from New York’s Carlton on Madison Avenue each night. The simulcast performances will be transmitted via the Internet to a signed
limited edition Elton John Signature Series Red Piano (valued at $80,000) by Yamaha. The rare piano will mimic his every keystroke
live on the fourth floor of the hotel. The piano will be up for silent auction at the end of each night. A simulcast such as this
has never been performed in the United States."

Somehow, "Everything but the kitchen sink" doesn't quite say it.

Proceeds from the event will benefit Gilda’s Club Chicago. (A local organization offering free support to cancer patients and their families.)

Hotel Sax Chicago
333 N Dearborn
Chicago, IL 60610

For more info on Hotel Sax
visit: www.hotelsaxchicago.com

Cuatro Is Back!

2008-03-12T16:30:00.001-06:00

Marcus Riley, NBC5 Street Team (video)

A couple of summers back,
Cuatro (2030 S. Wabash), was the place to be in the South Loop. It got to the point where I was on the verge of getting burned out on the scene, because I was there every Saturday night, sometimes multiple times a week. It's a short walk away, the food is good and I always had a blast.

Growing up outside of Toronto, I'm used to a diverse party scene, and Cuatro was one of the only spots in Chicago I've found where I could experience that consistently -- blacks, Latinos, whites and a wider cultural stew, all partying together in harmony. And what a party! Sometimes it was so hot, the crowd spilled onto the sidewalk, where they continued to jam.

And then, all of a sudden, it stopped. Turned out the owners didn't have a Public Place of Amusement (PPA) License, which is what a restaurant needs in Chicago if there's going to be any dancing. The joint quickly turned into a scene from Dirty Dancing, with management literally approaching you if you started tapping your feet or swaying your body.

That's why I was so glad when I walked in a few weeks ago and discovered that Cuatro is back! The owners have finally secured their PPA license, and the party is on! Friday is now the hot night of the week, with internationally renowned DJs like Jesse De La Pena performing. This Friday, percussionist Louie Louie makes a triumphant return, along with a live trumpet, sax and DJ Lego. Check out the video and pictures to get a flavor of what I'm talking about. See you Friday!

Slideshow: Louie-Louie And DJ FLX Show

Chicago Dance Crash: "The Standing Room"

2008-03-12T15:39:00.000-06:00

The Local Tourist, NBC5 Street Team

As the mother of a teenage boy I've seen many of the dance movies like "Honey" and "You Got Served," and I have a confession to make: I like them. Maybe it's because I grew up when breakdancing was hip and parachute pants were stylish; maybe it's because I taught ballroom dance for a blink of a moment; more likely it's because they're just plain fun.

Chicago Dance Crash's "The Standing Room" is a lot like a scene from one of those movies, except you're standing in the crowd and cheering on the dancers as they meander amongst the spectators. Some sections are obviously choreographed, like the part where a lone woman dances to David Kav's new song "Muse". Others seem like a dance party, with a circle of friends jumping in and out and trying to show each other up. Rock band Bi Polar Bear is sometimes solo, sometimes accompaniment. A capoeira troupe astonishes with its seemingly impossible contortions and defiance of gravity.

Don't take my word for it. You can see it for yourself this Friday & Saturday at The Viaduct, 3111 N Western. Tucked away on Western where it splits into two levels, the theater is a blank slate for this "rock concert for dance". Doors open at 8pm and tickets are $16. Bonus: there's an after party until midnight. Maybe some of those dancers will teach you their moves.

In the meantime, check out my photos from last Friday's "show":

Chicago Trivia: Whaddya mean, the river isn't always that color?

2008-03-12T14:38:00.001-06:00

The Local Tourist, NBC5 Street Team

It's a long-standing tradition, and one of the quirks of Chicago, that every year for St. Patrick's Day the river is dyed green. Who's the company responsible for turning the river chartreuse?

Email your answer and your mailing address to trivia@thelocaltourist.com

I was recently notified that one of my photos was chosen for the Schmap Guide to Chicago! To celebrate that selection, and to herald the arrival of spring, this week's prize is a framed print of this photo of the flamingos in Lincoln Park Zoo.

Congratulations to Carolyn Healy! She knew that Casimir Pulaski was the father of American cavalry. He gets his own holiday in Chicago because of the city's large Polish population.

Rocker Pete Wentz Opens Hair Salon

2008-03-12T13:13:00.004-06:00

LaShonda Matlock, NBC5 Street Team

Pete Wentz is opening a "beauty" salon. The Fall Out Boy bassist and beau of Ashlee Simpson are teaming up has with stylist Ben Mollin from Bravo's "Shear Genius" and is opening the Clandestine Industries salon. The punk-themed unisex beauty parlor is already taking appointments and opens in April. Cases of black hair dye are on the way!

The Chicago native is also here to fulfill your hoodie needs. Pete's clothing line (yes, he has a clothing line), also called Clandestine Industries, is being sold on high-end retailer Nordstrom’s web site and at the Wrigleyville store. Oh, and don't worry Pete will still open his new bar AK45 this spring as well!

Clandestine Industries Salon
952 W. Newport Ave.
Chicago, IL 60657
773-857-3525

I'm BAAAAACK

2008-03-12T10:11:00.003-06:00

Blagica Stefanovski, NBC5 Street Team (Video)

Hi Gang. Woo Doggie was February/March zany.

Why?

I got hitched last weekend and am back in the city and ready to roll with my weekly updates.

From tuxedo drama to moving in with someone for the first time in years, I'll have a lot to share.

Next up, I'm prepping for Shop Chicago, along with a fund raiser hosted by a buddy this Friday. Stay tuned for details!

Party for a good cause!

2008-03-11T13:10:00.003-06:00

LeeAnn Trotter, NBC5 Street Team (Video)

What do Art Smith, David Burke, Paula Deen and Tyler Florence all have in common? OK…yes… they are all chefs, but beyond that, they will all be together dishing up their specialties Monday, March 17th at the Third Annual World Festival. Padma Lakshmi of Bravo’s Top Chef, will serve as mistress of ceremonies.

It’s a benefit for Common Threads, a non profit founded by Art Smith (Oprah’s former chef), that teaches kids about world cultures through food.

(Click here to see pics from last year)

After the tasting event, which will be at the Museum of Contemporary Art, those who have purchased VIP tickets will get to enjoy a special performance by John Legend.
I went last year, and had a blast! For ticket info, call 312.752.2692.

Gogol Brings the Party

2008-03-10T20:48:00.004-06:00

Maureen Vana, NBC5 Street Team

Last week Gogol Bordello came to The Riviera armed with slingshots, whistles, and one very impressive handlebar mustache. The band's high spirited blend of "Gypsy Punk Rock" made for an exciting two hour nonstop set. The performance was filled with inspiring theatrics and a spontaneous sound that revitalized faith in the quality of a live show.

The stage was continually full of eye catching visuals and fluid motion. On one end Sergey Ryabtsev played the violin with an intense fury, while on the other, dancers raced to and fro smashing cymbals and bass drums. The set included a percussion session via fire bucket by vocalist Eugene Hütz as well as some stage diving from Bordello's MC and DJ Pedro Erazo.

See Photos From Gogol Bordello

Gogol Bordello turned the concert into a party and was unafraid to show Chicago how to have a good time. If your a fan of music, if your a fan of performance, or if your just a fan of fun, GB should be added to your must see list. Where else can you walk away full of smiles and raving about accordions to your friends?

Some tracks included in the set: "Ultimate", "Not A Crime", "Wonderlust King", "Mishito!", "American Wedding", "Start Wearing Purple", "Alcohol", "Harem in Tuscany", and "Baro Foro"

Check out Gogol Bordello at http://www.gogolbordello.com/ or at http://www.myspace.com/gogolbordello

This week's band: Seven Day Sonnet

2008-03-10T11:13:00.002-06:00

The Local Tourist, NBC5 Street Team

I'll admit - I'm a little partial to this new band already. Three of the members came from now-defunct Zeil, which was one of the first bands featured on TLT and the first one I ever interviewed. Now they've got a new singer and guitarist, new music, and their first show.

Seven Day Sonnet is heavy-hitting, with a sound that'll appeal to fans of Avenged Sevenfold and Breaking Benjamin. Check out one of their first songs, and then mark your calendar for March 20 for their debut show at Elbo Room.

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