The Local Tourist: Online Guide To Downtown Chicago

NEW Blog Format!

2006-07-24T10:24:00.000-05:00

I don’t know about you, but I used to get irritated every time I would visit my blog. There was no navigation structure and it just didn’t fit in with the rest of the site. Plus I would post articles on different topics, but there was no way to categorize them.

Ta Da!!!!

The new blog has categories, the same navigation as the rest of the site, a search function, and it just looks prettier.

I wasn’t able to import the old posts, so I’ve added some of the posts from the old blog. I’ll keep adding them but the dates will be incorrect. You can still access the old blog at http://www.thelocaltourist.com/blog.htm.

Restaurant Openings

2006-07-23T10:35:00.000-05:00

Restaurants open (and close) in downtown Chicago at an incredible pace. In the next couple of weeks we'll have three new culinary choices in the heart of the city:

CPK/ASAP, 30 N LaSalle, (312)920-9662: A quicker version of California Pizza Kitchen with a smaller menu

BB, 22 E Hubbard, (312)755-0007: Across from Shaw's and half a block east of the Hubbard Street bar & restaurant smorgasbord in the former Room 22 localtion. Gourmet comfort food in a pub atmosphere (sounds like it will be competing with Rockit Bar & Grill just down the street).

Zocalo, 358 W Ontario St, (312)302-9977: Mexican spot opening in the old Chilpancingo space. They're serving lots of small plates, but don't call it a tapas spot.

Life In Chicago: "Pull your sh*& up more closer..."

2006-07-20T18:41:00.000-05:00

I just got back from the library. That statement, just the word library, probably brings to mind a geek wearing glasses and carting thick tomes of erudition, most likely wrapped in a flowing skirt and shod in Birkenstocks with her hair in braids, little to no makeup, and her eyes cast shyly to the ground.

Nope. I had on shorts, a short sleeved fitted shirt, running shoes, and a Johnny Walker baseball cap. Very little makeup, though; that part was correct.

I wasn't going to the library for any intellectual pursuit. Much of my day is spent working with HTML, PHP, Javascript, pdf's, jpg's, servers, databases and webhosts. I was going to the library for some entertaining non-challenging mysteries that would provide a few hours of escape from my think-think-think normal life.

Feeling slightly guilty at the stack of Iris Johansen novels I held closely to my chest like forbidden candy that some well-meaning adult would take away at any moment, I picked up several local periodicals on my way out. These are part of my "research" and how I keep up on all things Chicago. As a maniacal Type A person it is very difficult for me to indulge in a strictly pleasurable activity without some "redeeming" effort. Occasionally I have to force myself to read something whimsical, or listen to a song that increases my "cool" quotient with my 13-year-old son.

As I walked home I felt wise and intellectually enhanced just because I had accomplished an errand and I had simultaneously been in a building dedicated to the pursuit of knowledge. Yes, while there I could check out a score of formulaic, predictable novels that would take 35 minutes to read and 3.5 to forget. And yet...I could also learn about any conceivable topic. Any time I'm in a library I imagine my IQ has gone up a point, just by osmosis.

It was with this mindset that I approached the intersection of Belmont and Broadway. And heard: "Pull your sh*& up more closer, you stupid f*&#."

I've been angry in a car before. I've been tempted to scream, cuss, give the bird, whip around some obviously incompetent driver and then slam on the brakes. Two key points, though: I have not given into that temptation, and when I did feel it I was driving and therefore had the illusion of control. This "gentleman", and I use the word very lightly, was sitting in the backseat.

Angry or not, I have never said "more closer." Ever.

I wanted to say to him that he probably shouldn't be calling anyone stupid if he couldn't grasp basic grammatical structure and couldn't find more creative insults than the four-letter ones.

Even if I hadn't just left a library I would have shaken my head in disgust. Grammatical rules have been drummed into me since I was a wee tot. My mother still corrects my grammar (it's "I petted the dog," not "I pet the dog." "The comma goes before the closing quotation mark."), and I have extended the tradition with my son. Any time I hear "me and her" or any other flagrant misuse of the English language a chill goes up my spine and I have to clamp my jaw shut to avoid an unwelcome correction.

I frequently break the rules, but each time I do it's with purpose. Run-on sentences convey excitement, energy, nervousness, anticipation - they're mood-setters. Dependent clauses used as sentences make punchy statements. Contractions, misspellings, and slang all contribute to a colloquial sense of friendship and intimacy.

I suppose I should just relax. The primary purpose of language is, after all, to communicate. And this "gentleman" definitely communicated. Just not the message he was hoping to deliver:

"You haven't pulled up far enough for us to get around. We have a green light and the back end of your car is blocking the intersection. This makes me angry, especially since my idiot friend is driving and I'm stuck in the backseat with this bimbo, so the only thing I can do is shout expletives at you even though you won't hear them because your windows are shut, so only the people on the sidewalk will hear me, and they'll think I'm an idiot because I've screamed out 'more closer' even though everyone knows that's redundant. But I'm going to go ahead and scream it anyway because it makes me feel better. So there."

Coffee Buzz: Lavazza

2006-07-17T13:31:00.000-05:00

I'm a big fan of coffee. I drink about half a pot every morning. (That could explain why I get very little sleep and am a bit too chipper for most people at 7am and friends and family have to tell me "SLOW DOWN" when I speak.) However, I don't like Starbucks and even when I go to Intelligentsia or Caribou I tend to be a purist: large coffee. No cappucino, no latte, no fancy beans that are only grown on the south side of the mountain and picked by a fourth generation coffee grower who lives among the beans in a cabin built out of used coffee filters. Nope. Just coffee. That's all about to change.

Lavazza is a family-owned Italian coffee company that opened three cafes in the Loop last year. These are the only Lavazza Cafes in the world, and there are no plans to open any more any time soon. Which is a darn shame, because I would go every day. I'd start off with a muffin that's been baked in the store and a glass of fresh squeezed orange juice. Their OJ reminds me slightly - and this is not a bad thing - of Tang because it's so incredibly sweet. I'd go back mid-morning for a Cappugiro, which is an "inverted cappuccino." Normally I have to add sweetener to any coffee I drink, but theirs is so smooth that it didn't need anything. Luigi Lavazza invented coffee bean blending (think Meritage if you're a wine lover) and apparently they've continued to hone the process of creating a non-bitter, smooth beverage.

Since service is key here, for lunch I'd have a seat while they brought me my Prosciutto Baguette or tuna salad. The prosciutto is, of course, imported from Italy (as is the tiramisu - don't get me started on that). The tuna is mixed with oil and vinegar instead of mayo so you can actually taste the tuna. Then I'd head out with my Berrissimo. I took one sip of this berry smoothie made with gelato and exclaimed "WOW." I couldn't help it. The flavor was so strong and clear it jumped on my tongue and made it do a little dance.

In the afternoon I'd stop in for a Caffe Shakerato. Who would think to take espresso and milk foam and flavored syrup, shake over ice, and pour them into a martini glass? This is just one of the many coffee "creations" they feature. Another, which really needs to be eaten with a spoon, is the Meringato. Espresso, nutella, meringue, and whipped cream. Need I say more?

Unless you're taking your drink to go it's served in a glass or a real coffee cup. You get to eat with real silverware on breakable plates. Unless they're super busy, they'll bring your order to you. This is not a dash in, run out type of coffee shop, although I could just run in for that no-frills cup I usually get. It's modeled after an Italian coffee cafe, where food and drink are meant to be experienced and not rushed through like a chore that needs to be finished before racing off to the next.

Obviously I'm a big fan. I suppose it's a good thing they won't be opening one in my neighborhood any time soon. I'd have to take a sedative to counteract all the espresso.

LAVAZZA
Coffee
27 W WASHINGTON
(312)997-9971
Hours: Mon - Fri 7am to 5pm, Sat 9am to 2pm
134 N LASALLE
(312)977-9701
Hours: Mon - Fri 6am to 6pm
111 W JACKSON
(312)447-0000
Hours: Mon - Fri 6am to 5pm

Do you ever feel like there's a big red X on your forehead?

2006-07-12T14:46:00.000-05:00

Well, now there can be! Or on your chest, your coffee mug, your bag...

Instead of hitting you, though, this red X tells everyone to hit The Local Tourist. YOU know it's a great site with tons of information; don't be stingy - share!

The Local Tourist's new store has hats, shirts, hoodies, and mugs. Send me a picture of you sporting our stylish logo and I'll post it on the site.

Anthony Hamilton/India.Arie photos

2006-07-09T15:54:00.000-05:00

Taste of Chicago ends today. As I write this, the last concert of the 10-day food and music extravaganza is being performed in the Petrillo Band Shell.

Last Wednesday freelance photographer Jillian Dowd and I went to the Taste to cover the Anthony Hamilton/India.Arie concert.

We didn't stay long because we were a little miffed at the treatment we'd received, but what we did hear and see makes me wish we had stayed a bit longer. Both artists definitely have different styles and messages. Although one message they both delivered in the short time we were there: love yourself.

While the press were exiting the photo pit in front of the stage, Anthony jumped down from the stage. He tried going directly through the middle fence, but it was latched together so he (and the security detail) exited through the side and then snaked their way through the crowd.

Rooftop Solitude: Uh Oh, That Means She's Thinking...

2006-07-07T21:05:00.000-05:00

It's a perfect Friday evening. There's a light breeze off the lake. It's not even strong enough to tussle my hair into my face. From the rooftop of my building the city is quiet and peaceful. I hear birds, the hum of the air conditioners, and the constant overhead drone of planes to and from O'Hare. But even that is a low crescendo and diminuendo, almost a soothing ellipse that leads you into another thought. That plane is leaving Chicago...This one is arriving...

I look around at the other rooftop decks. First, I'm amazed at how few there really are. Second, I'm disappointed that there are only two, no, four - just four other people outside enjoying this calm, peaceful, perfect summer night.

That thought didn't last long. I mean, come on Theresa, of course there are only five of you. You're in Chicago and it's FRIDAY NIGHT.

I still work part time at a restaurant (because it gets me out of the house and frankly, I'm not independently wealthy yet), so it's rare that I have a Friday evening free. Earlier, I ran some errands and as I passed by people eating dinner on patios and walking to parties and bars, I thought "I should be doing that." I thought about calling a friend who lives around the corner and extending a dinner invitation. I thought about calling Hainesville to see if he wanted to drive down here or vice versa, because landscaping business plus summer plus long distance = take what you can get. Essentially, I felt like I had to be doing something, and if I weren't there must be something wrong with me. A Friday night off feels akin to a field day to a 3rd grader and I should be Out There, for heaven's sake!

Being the annoyingly obsessive introspective psychoanalytical person that I am, I had to figure out why I was feeling so out-of-sync. And because I'm an annoyingly obsessive introspective psychoanalytical person, that didn't take too long:

Even though I'm around people at the restaurant and have a great social circle, there are times when I get lonely. Earlier this evening was one of those times. I'm at the computer all day, every day. I occasionally have fears that I'll turn into a cat lady. On days when I've talked more to Nina (my cat) than a human being I'm prone to being overly social in the cosmetics aisle at Walgreens or spending way too much time talking to my ex on MySpace. Today had the potential to be one of those days.

Then I went up to the deck. My original intentions were to 1) get out of the apartment so I didn't bore Nina, and 2) to finalize some details for a new feature I'm adding to the site. (Yes, I know that's redundant, which is why I feel the need to get out more.)

If I ever had any doubt I was a city girl it was taken care of tonight. I'm one of those people who see the skyline and all the activity it implies and sighs, calmly, "I'm home." In retrospect it doesn't surprise me that I saw the Hancock Building, the Sears Tower, glimpses of the lake and Belmont Harbor, and relaxed. I no longer felt the need to do something. I knew it was OK to just enjoy a calm, quiet evening. There are 8 million people around me, and I'm sure plenty of them are doing enough to make up for my chosen night of solitude and serenity.

There is always, and I do mean always, something to do in Chicago. If you're bored, it's because you're either not paying attention, or you choose to be. Sometimes, and this is almost blasphemy coming from my fingers, it's OK to choose to be bored.

Then again, there is this band playing at the Metro tonight...

Taste of Chicago: Love/Hate Relationship

2006-07-06T16:32:00.000-05:00

I like food. I like all cuisines, all types. There are only two foods I won't eat because of bad experiences: kalamata olives and raw oysters. Green pepper is the only thing I'll pick off a pizza. I've had rattlesnake, alligator, turtle, buffalo, oxtail, and ostrich, and liked them all. My son and I have a rule: try everything once. If you don't like it, you don't have to eat it. I'll read passages of the glutonous feasts of Roman times and sigh with longing. The only reason I don't weigh 200 pounds is because I force myself to eat in moderation and I exercise daily. Why? Because I like food.

I like music. All genres, all types except for country, and even that's growing on me. Music either reflects or influences my moods. There's music to write to, music to run to, music to clean to. If there's a snappy beat I'll dance to it. If it's a passionate aria or a sappy love song I'll cry to it. If it's got lyrics I'll sing along. My son laughs at me, because I'll even sing along to songs I'm tired of or don't particularly care for. Why? Because I like music.

So you'd think the Taste of Chicago would be right up my alley. There's just one problem.

I hate crowds.

I know that makes no sense. I promote downtown Chicago. I'm inviting tourists into my beloved city, and inviting those who live here to get out and take advantage of everything it has to offer. And there's no way I'm going to sit at home and extol its virtues while everyone else goes from parade to restaurant to festival to bar to concert, etc. That means that when I plan on visiting an event like Taste of Chicago I have to mentally prepare myself. I'm a fast walker, so I have to adjust to ambling, meandering throngs of people who will stop, change directions, wave cigarettes absent-mindedly, and spill beer and ice cream.

Yesterday my photographer friend Jillian and I planned on covering the Anthony Hamilton/India.Arie concert at the Taste. It wasn't until shortly before we left that I realized - we were going to the Taste. At 5:30 at night.

I've been there before. In fact, I go every year (it is part of my job, after all). And every year I think the same thing, and other locals generally feel this way: it's crowded and overpriced and the food is NOT representative of the great cuisine Chicago has to offer.

This year I realized that while city dwellers might swear off the Taste of Chicago, it is perfect for visitors and suburbanites. I can get great pizza, Italian beefs, Thai, Indian, Persian - basically any type of cuisine you can think of - delivered to my apartment in Lakeview. I've been here less than five years, and I'd forgotten how excited I was when I moved here and realized I could get BEER delivered to my apartment at 3am! My delivery options seemed boundless, and even now it will take me half an hour to leaf through my file of menus before deciding what to order. The Taste provides that plethora of choices for 10 days to people who don't ordinarily have those options.

There are only three days left of the Taste, so here are my recommendations:

1. Bring bottled water! You really don't want to use your tickets for water, do you? There's a White Hen up the street on Michigan.
2. Get the roasted corn (I had the one from A Natural Harvest with cajun/creole spices - HOT!) and the BBQ turkey leg. They're ubiquitous fair food, but every year they're the two most oft-recommended food items.
3. Get the taste portions. I've heard of a group that each got a taste portion, brought it to one of the green spaces, and everyone got to a try a little bit for a true sampling. Jillian and another friend and I purchased various taste portions and were able to try much more than if we hadn't wanted to share.
4. Try Robinson's! The pulled turkey sandwich is enormous, but it's the sauce you really want so you'll be fine with the taste portion of rib tips.
5. Don't get the Dolmeh from Pars Cove. I tried them. I love stuffed grape leaves. These were bland and dry.
6. My friend Mike said the goat is b-a-a-ad. OK, he said he didn't like it. I said it was b-a-a-ad.
7. You can't go wrong with any of the desserts.
8. Beer can seem expensive at 8 or 9 tickets (~$5), but it's really not much more than you'd pay at a bar in downtown Chicago. It just depends on how much money you have to spend whether you want to eat at the Taste and drink later.
9. The tickets say $0.50 each, but you have to buy 11 for $7 because there's a $1.50 charge for "Taste amenities". So, really, each ticket is $0.63.

The key to enjoying the Taste of Chicago is knowing what to expect. This weekend will be extremely crowded, especially with acts like Macy Gray, Liz Phair, and Kenny Wayne Shepherd. Just be prepared, have fun, and stay out of my way! (Just kidding. No, really. If you see a redhead who looks like she's going to burst if she has to walk at 2 mph for any longer, move. Please.)

Don't They Know Who I Am?

2006-07-05T16:41:00.000-05:00

A friend of mine is a music producer and a talented songwriter. Recently he had the opportunity to attend the BET Awards and met artists ranging from Ludicris to Stevie Wonder. When he returned to Chicago, and reality, he mentioned that he's going to try to stay humble, but he could feel himself getting wrapped up in that world.

I know what he's talking about.

In the Chicago media world, I'm still small potatoes. I'm the shreds of small potatoes before they become hash browns. But I do have a very loyal and steadily increasing subscriber base to my newsletter, and more and more frequently I'll meet someone who will say "You're the Local Tourist!"

That's incredibly intoxicating.

It can also create a monster.

A couple of weeks ago I faxed my press credential request to my contact at the Mayor's Office of Special Events. I was told to list the events I would be covering, and if I needed a photographer to provide the freelancer's name. Yesterday afternoon I contacted the office ahead of time to find out where to pick up the credentials so that Jillian and I could cover the Anthony Hamilton/India.Arie concert at the Taste of Chicago. The woman I spoke with was, to put it bluntly, quite snotty.

"You're an unknown publication, and the only reason I'm allowing you to attend is because Ann's worked with you before."

I bit my tongue and reminded myself that I wouldn't get anywhere by responding in kind. I very politely told her that TLT receives about 80,000 visitors a month, and that as an Internet publication photographs were necessary. She grudgingly told me that she would allow a photographer, but I would have to sign a release agreeing not to sell the photos.

Fine.

Before leaving I spoke to my mother and told her about the conversation. She said "oh - she doesn't know who she's talking to. That's going to end up on your website." Of course she's right, but not just for the reason that this woman was somewhat rude. I'll get to that in a moment.

The security at the concert also could have used a lesson or two in social niceties. Photographers were allowed for the first three songs, which was fine, but after that a bevy of blue t-shirt- wearing angry people swarmed into the pit and shoed us out like we were so many aggravating mosquitos. One woman glared at me and said "you shouldn't even have been in here" because I had an orange bracelet instead of the green photo pit.

Because we were a bit disgruntled by our treatment, were hungry, and had some time to kill before India.Arie we decided to visit the Taste and get something to eat. Unfortunately we missed her first three songs (the concerts actually start on time at the Taste of Chicago!), so we headed up the aisles to get close enough to get a decent shot. Jillian was let through, but I had to wait halfway back.

Here's where my reason for writing about this comes in. It's not so much the treatment itself. I can somewhat understand that. I'm sure the Mayor's Office and the people at the press check-in get all sorts of people saying they work for this or that publication. Even though the Internet is now the news source of choice for many, I still have credibility issues simply because my publication is a website and really, anyone can put up a website. And security detail is a thankless job and people try to sneak by all the time.

My problem was with my own reaction. I was irritated and literally thought "Don't they know who I am?" When the woman told me I shouldn't have been in the photo pit, and when I wasn't allowed closer to the stage, I felt like a whiney bratty child. I even said to Jillian - "But it's my website! I'm the publisher!"

Time for a reality check, Theresa.

Rude behavior should not be met with an arrogant belief that they picked the wrong person to mess with. I don't care how many visitors The Local Tourist receives; that does not make me more deserving of kind and considerate treatment. It does, however, give me a venue to voice my dissatisfaction, or, and this is more frequently the case, my satisfaction. This is a public forum, and while I definitely include my personality I'm also providing a service that goes beyond me as an individual. My all-about-me reaction was humbling.

Next time I'm treated with disdain or disrespect I promise to keep the monster in its cage. I'll let everyone know about it of course, but it will be for the right reason.

Theresa

Loop The Loop: Chicago Audio Tours

2006-07-03T11:23:00.000-05:00

If you're the type of person who'd rather see the sites on your own instead of tagging along with a group, you're in luck. Last week I mentioned that the Chicago Loop Alliance has created audio tours of downtown Chicago. Even though the Loop is normally seen as the business/financial district, there's a whole lot of culture to be found also.

The tours focus on three different areas: Art, Theater, and Landmarks.

If you're short on time, start with the Theatre Loop. There are 10 stops, and the audio portion is only 25 minutes. Many of the theaters are close to each other, but you will take a trek down to Congress Parkway if you want to see the Auditorium Theatre. This is worth it simply because it was designed by Louis Sullivan and Dankmar Adler, and Frank Lloyd Wright was the draftsman (which you'll learn on the tour).

Everyone's familiar with the Picasso in Daley Plaza and Cloud Gate, or "The Bean" as it's affectionately known, but the Loop contains more art than those two famous sculptures. The Art Loop audio tour has almost twice as many stops as the Theatre Loop. You begin at the Art Institute and then venture through Millennium Park. Note: They mention that you can purchase an audio tour of Millennium Park, but you can also download it for free from the park's website. Wear some comfortable shoes, because they take you all the way down to 9th Street to see the Logan Memorial Statue. You end up just past the Spirit of Music Garden, which is where the SummerDance Festival is held. If you're not too tired, go on a day when it's in full "swing".

If you're feeling ambitious and have more time, the Landmark Loop will keep your neck craned for 55 minutes. It's worth it, though, if you're one of those who's curious about all that fantastic and varied architecture. Besides buildings, Chicago's highlighted landmarks also include the "L", Buckingham Fountain, and the starting point of Route 66. I actually appreciated that they skipped the Sears Tower, since that's gotten enough press for the entire area!

I enjoyed these audio tours for all the little tidbits of information that enhance my love of this city. I learned the Carbide and Carbon Building was designed after a champagne bottle (cheers!). When I heard that there used to be cast-iron buildings that melted during the Chicago Fire of 1871, I could picture them being reduced to molten heaps. And ever since reading "The Devil in the White City" I've been fascinated by the Columbian Exposition, so it was with renewed interest that I looked at Marshall Field's: its exterior was designed to complement the architecture of the Expo. Note: Marshall Field's also has an audio tour, available on the 7th Floor.

These three tours cover a lot of the same ground. If you're interested in all three, you could create your own mix-and-match tour and make a day of it.

Picnicking In Chicago

2006-06-29T14:52:00.000-05:00

Growing up in the midwest, a picnic usually meant Kentucky Fried Chicken or lunchmeat sandwiches with cole slaw, potato salad, and chips. To this day, when I picnic in one of the suburban forest preserves that's my lunch of choice.

However, after living in Chicago for almost five years, my al fresco culinary tastes have gotten a little more sophisticated. One trip to Ravinia and it's goodbye greasy bucket and hello shrimp cocktail.

Listed below are some of the wine shops and delis downtown. I'll also be adding restaurants with pre-packaged boxes in the next couple of days.

Binny's
Gourmet market, knowledgeable wine staff
213 W Grand Ave
(312)332-0012

Fox & Obel
Gourmet market
401 E Illinois St
(312)410-7301

Printer's Row Wine Shop
Primarily wine, but also a selection of cheeses, chips and nuts
719 S Dearborn
(312)663-9314

Treasure Island
Cheeses, wines, large deli
680 N Lake Shore Dr
(312)664-0400

UnCork It
Wine, gourmet party platters, imported cheeses
393 E Illinois St
(312)321-9400

Whole Foods
Salad bar, large deli, natural and organic foods
50 W Huron St
(312)932-9600

Juzt Nutz - Yes, they are (band review)

2006-06-26T18:47:00.000-05:00

When a member of a band has a heart attack three weeks before a show, you're not quite sure what to expect.

Well, that's not quite true. You expect that there will be no show.

Unless it's Juzt Nutz. And this band is appropriately named. They're freakin' insane.

I've been corresponding with this Chicago band for the last couple of months. They've been particularly supportive since I was mugged and frequently check in on me. So when they had a gig at Weeds (1555 N Dayton, 312-943-7815) I had to meet them! (Besides the fact that I like their music.)

Weeds is a small bar near North and Halsted. It's one of those Chicago bars that's kind of like your grandmother's house, in that stuff has accumulated over the years and there doesn't seem to be any rhyme or reason. At first there's a Native American feel (in a stereotypical sense). There were Navajo blankets on the bar, masks on the wall, and the bartender was a tall dark-skinned man with sunglasses and a ponytail who obsessively lit a new incense stick each time the last one went out. Then you notice the clothesline with dozens of bras hanging over the liquor bottles. And the pool table pushed against the wall with an enormous plastic pumpkin with "TIPS" in magic marker on masking tape. Their draft selection reinforced the confused character of the bar: Bud Light and Bells Oberon.

As we walked into the bar, my buddy Mike and I were immediately blown away, and by the end of the night felt like we'd been sitting through g-force winds. Have you heard DJ's proclaiming there's face-melting guitar on "Dani California" by the Red Hot Chili Peppers? I have. I've waited for it. And waited. At the very end, there's a guitar lick that I've noticed only because I was told to notice it. It's OK.

If you want your face melted off, there's no waiting with Juzt Nutz. Every song, every single song has overwhelming energy. It's not just Bailous on the guitar. It's Derrick on the bass and Al and William going back and forth between vocals and drums. These guys are having fun and it's infectious. Sometimes I was reminded of Van Halen, sometimes Jimi Hendrix. At all times their energy kept me off the barstool and there wasn't a moment where I could just sit on my heiny and drink my beer.

I had to keep reminding myself that William had a heart attack just three weeks ago! He wore a Superman t-shirt during the first set as a message to their manager that he was a man of steel. (Yes, it is soaked in sweat.)

Because I'd corresponded with Juzt Nutz, and they treated me like a rock star (even playing "The Roctopus" again because I was late - sorry guys), I'll admit that my viewpoint might have been a little skewed. I realized it wasn't by Mike's reaction. He's a guy with very definite opinions. If he likes something, you know it, and if he doesn't like something, you definitely know it. He operates in superlatives.

He liked these guys. As we walked out of Juzt Nutz he turned to me and said "I've never seen anybody do what he could do with a guitar."

They'll be playing at Dugans sometime soon. I'll definitely let you know when, and you know I'll be there! But I'm going to rest up, eat my Wheaties, and befriend a CMT beforehand.

Alcohol on Chicago Beaches/Public Bathrooms in Downtown Chicago?

2006-06-26T14:18:00.000-05:00

Someone asked me if you could have alcohol on Chicago's beaches, so I thought others would probably have the same question.

I visited the Chicago Park District's website, where it's about as easy to find information like that as it is to find a bathroom in downtown Chicago (more on that later). So then I called the Chicago Park District, because unless you've got an easily navigable site like The Local Tourist (aren't I cute?) it is just easier to pick up the phone. After listening to nine menu options I was directed to press "0" for an operator. I waited briefly on hold.

The operator's answer?

"No."

There you have it.

Back to the bathrooms. A couple of weeks ago my brother and I spent an afternoon downtown. We took our sandwiches to the retaining wall on the Chicago River and ate with our feet dangling over the edge. Drinking a large Diet Coke next to a running body of water is not a good idea. I inhaled my sandwich, handed my drink to my brother (because the swishing was making it worse) and made a beeline for the stairs back up to Michigan Avenue. Well, I did look around for a big bush, but decided against it. I do have SOME pride (despite the fact that I'm relating this story) and really didn't feel like being arrested for public urination.

I raced south on Michigan, my brother laughing at me as I cursed my infinitesimally small bladder. The only place I could think of that HAD to have a public bathroom was the AON Center. There are various food establishments in the lower level and a really cool patio with a waterfall (of course. Running water, again), so I assumed there would be a place for me to relieve myself.

Practically running at this point, we entered the building. I scanned left right left right, and my savior brother found one at the end of the hall to the right. I think I knocked someone over in my haste, and then...

I won't go into the relief, the feelings of peace and calm and happiness I felt. Suffice it to say I could resume my day at a much more relaxed pace.

Yesterday I was relating this story to my parents and we decided I should put up a listing of public restrooms in downtown Chicago. And yes, this is really how I come up with ideas for new content on TLT.

Obviously I don't know where they all are, so I'm starting a new thread on the forum. If you know where there are publicly accessible facilities in downtown Chicago, please let everyone know! You'll be doing a public service. If nothing else you know I won't plow into anyone in a desperate search for relief!

Call for Chicago Bands

2006-06-25T22:23:00.000-05:00

Do you want to have your music heard by thousands of locals and tourists of Chicago?

TheLocalTourist.com, THE website for downtown Chicago, wants to put your music out there. Every week a different Chicago band will be featured on the home page, with a clickable sound file and link to a dedicated bio page. Site visitors will vote to keep it or chuck it. Based on votes, TLT's favorite band will be picked monthly, quarterly, and yearly.

What do you have to do? Submit the following to bands@thelocaltourist.com:

Up to 3 songs in MP3 format
Picture of band in jpg format, 200 x 200 max size
Mini Bio of band, max 300 words

How much does this cost? Nuttin. Nada. Zip. Zilch. Just send the above and hopefully your band will get picked to be the only one on the home page of The Local Tourist for an entire week. That'll get you about 20,000 potential new fans. If you're one of TLT's favorites, you'll also have bragging rights and we'll let all the local media know how great you are.

Here's to Chicago music!

Theresa Carter
The Local Tourist

TLT's Fabulous Cadre of Writers

2006-06-22T10:25:00.000-05:00

Beauty In Chicago

Whether it has been on the beach or at a festival, more likely than not, you have already taken advantage of the sun’s rays. Since we got a late start temperature-wise, perhaps many of you have already tossed your impatient bod into a sundress or bathing suit without a little prep work beforehand. It wasn’t until you got to the beach that you realized your bikini line needed some attention, and that glare you were experiencing on your eyes was the sun bouncing off of your pasty skin. No worries, both the spa and the drugstore have remedies to transform you in less time than it takes to navigate Michigan Avenue during tourist season. - Click here for Rebecca's article

The Well-Read Chicagoan

This is very much a memoir for Chicagoans with some hilarious Cubs/Harry Caray commentary as well as more serious takes on rich North Siders and family life by the Lake. Obviously those familiar with Glencoe will have much to relate to, but even far suburbanites and (dare I say) local tourists should get a kick out of many of the references. Click here for Adam's complete review

Home Sweet Home

Buying or selling a home soon? My advice is to select a Realtor® based on interviewing 2-3 Real Estate Professionals. This can be one of the most important and largest financial decisions you will make. Remember this is a business transaction and should be treated as such. Emotions can get involved and you do not want to be misrepresented or have miscommunication. If you are considering working with a family member or friend, I suggest you still interview others, then, make an informed decision. The questions below may help guide your interviews. Click here for Jennifer's guidelines

Taste of Chicago

2006-06-19T13:45:00.000-05:00

The Taste of Chicago is our city's most popular festival. What started off as a one-day food fair has evolved into a 10-day extravaganza. Besides the 60+ restaurants that offer regular sized and "Taste" sized portions of their signature items, there's a Family Village with activities for children and a Chicago Living Pavilion, which offers everything from salsa lessons to flower arranging. And, of course, there's the music.

Every year the Taste of Chicago draws national music acts. The festival begins with the Chicago Country Music Festival on July 1 and 2. This year features Glenn Campbell and Jo Dee Messina. The rest of the week brings concerts by Train, India.Arie, Macy Gray, Liz Phair, and more.

July 3rd is Chicago's Independence Day Celebration with a concert by the Grant Park Orchestra. Tchaikovsky's 1812 Overture, the Star Spangled Banner, and other patriotic favorites are followed by fireworks.

Father's Day Gift Idea

2006-06-16T15:38:00.000-05:00

Father's Day is always difficult for me. Not because I don't like my dad. Just the opposite. When we're together we get so involved in our conversations that it annoys the heck out of my mom. But he doesn't wear a tie, has never played golf (even though there's a driving range behind their house), doesn't tinker with cars and unless it's the Colts or the Pacers or the Indy 500 (can you tell where we're from?) could care less about sports. Because of that I'm particularly thrilled with Rebecca's efforts this week. She's come up with a great gift idea for those fathers who don't fit the stereotypical image.

SummerDance Festival, Grant Park Orchestra

2006-06-16T14:00:00.000-05:00

Do you feel like you have two left feet? Not to worry. The City of Chicago's 10th Annual SummerDance Festival provides free lessons, and then live music to practice dancing to, all through the summer. Every Thursday through Sunday visit Grant Park's Spirit of Music Garden, 601 S Michigan Ave, and learn everything from Salsa to Waltz.

Do you love enjoying classical music outdoors, but Ravinia is too far, too inconvenient, or too expensive? Well, you're in luck. The Grammy Award winning Grant Park Orchestra performs all summer, for free. The majority of the performances take place in the Jay Pritzker Pavilion in Millennium Park. If you've ever been to a concert at the Petrillo Band Shell, their old home, you'll appreciate the acoustics of their new venue.

If you've got plans in the evening, you can listen to them while they rehearse in the afternoon. Most rehearsals also take place in the Pavilion. Rehearsal schedule here

I Love Chicago!

2006-06-15T17:15:00.000-05:00

Yesterday I had one of my many "I love Chicago" days. Since I've made it my job to extol the virtues of the city it's to be expected that I would have several of those. Yesterday was a stellar example, from start to finish.

It started off with inline skating on the lake front, which, if you've read this for any length of time, you know is one of my favorite activities. It progressed to hearing the Grant Park Orchestra rehearse, eating lunch on the river (close enough to jump in), a stop at the Millennium Park Bike Garage to visit bike mechanic extraordinairre Mike. After that it was the Tasting Room for some fabulous wine, and then Madonna box seats. I ended up the night with appetizers at O'Callaghan's and a quick shake-my-booty at Moda.

I'm tired just thinking about it.

I'll tell ya' about the details tomorrow. Right now I'm going to take a nap.

Chicago Outdoor Film Festival

2006-06-12T12:29:00.000-05:00

The movie choices for this year's Outdoor Film Festival have been released.

Every Tuesday night from July 18 through August 29 you can bring your blanket and your picnic basket to Grant Park and enjoy watching familiar movies under the stars with the skyline in the background.

It's a good thing the movies are probably ones you've already seen. You really don't go to the film festival to be focused on the film. It's kind of like going to a Disney film on a Saturday afternoon. You're going to miss half the movie, but that's not really the point. In this case you won't have to deal with candy on the seats or popcorn in your hair (unless you anger the person next to you). Instead, it's a great evening outside with a date or a group of friends. Drive-in without the car and a MUCH better view behind the screen.

Jul. 18: 8:55 pm "Rebel Without a Cause"
Jul. 25: 8:49 pm "Bringing Up Baby"
Aug. 1: 8:41 p.m. "High Noon"
Aug. 8: 8:32 p.m. "American Graffiti"
Aug. 15: 8:22 p.m. "The Apartment"
Aug. 22: 8:11 p.m. "On the Waterfront"
Aug. 29: 7:59 p.m. "Ferris Bueller's Day Off"

Grant Park, Butler Field
100 S Lake Shore Dr
(312)744-3315

I Want My Mummy

2006-06-01T12:09:00.000-05:00

I'm sorry. I couldn't help myself. I promise I will try to keep the puns to a minimum. Even though it will be difficult to keep my kitschy humor under wraps.

In today's high-energy multimedia world it's a feat to take a bunch of really old, static objects and make them entertaining. Granted, the Field Museum has lots of experience with this, but I was still impressed with "Tutankhamun and the Golden Age of the Pharaohs."

(One of the first things I learned is that I'd been pronouncing his name wrong. Instead of Tut-an-KAHM-un, it's pronounced Tut-ANKH-amun. The name means "Living Image of Amun." Amun was the high god - like their Zeus - and ankh means life. Once I knew how the name broke down the pronunciation was easier to remember.)

The exhibit begins in a darkened room with video monitors hung near the ceiling. As we stood in the dark and waited for the room to fill a woman remarked to her husband that it reminded her of Walt Disney World. A museum employee introduced a brief film, which is, of course, narrated by Omar Sharif. That definitely reinforced the Disney-like feel, as did the slow raising of lights in the next room once the film was over. The illumination focused our attention on a granite statue of the boy-king - the only item in the room. It was so theatric that I commented to myself "oh, that was good."

As the group entered the second room I was struck by the reality of the exhibit. I've become so used to seeing modern day representations of Egyptian life that I had to remind myself these items were REAL. Due to their obsession with death we're fortunate enough to have this intimate peek into what life was like 3,000 years ago, for the wealthy anyway, and I had to consciously recognize that it's not some director's concept.

I won't go into detail about the various artifacts. There's no way to really describe how it feels to look at a gilded sarcophogus that entombed a real mummy, or how well a wooden model boat weathered 3 millennia, or to know that the jar in the case used to contain a pharaoh's liver.

I will tell you that the funeral mask, his mummy, and his sarcophogus are not part of the exhibit (they're not allowed to leave Egypt). Don't worry - they have enough items from his tomb and others to keep you busy for at least an hour.

The exhibit itself is, as I mentioned, well laid out. It's broken down into eleven galleries, so the various aspects of Egyptian life are in bite-size chunks. Each display case has descriptive signs below and above. That means that even if you can't get close enough to see the objects you can read about what's within. Even the audio commentary keeps things short and sweet.

All of these are benefits to both musuem and the patrons. They ensure that the greatest number of people can see the exhibit during its stay in Chicago, and we don't feel like we're sitting through a long, drawn out lecture on antiquities.

If possible, go in the morning during the week. They do limit the number of people who go through the exhibit at one time, but I'm sure you don't want to spend any length of time in line. 21,000 people attended over Memorial Day weekend! To try to accomodate the incredible demand the Field Museum will keep the exhibit open until 9 on the following dates, with the last ticket sold at 7pm:
Saturday, June 3
Sunday, June 11
Friday, June 16
Sunday, June 18
Friday, June 30

The Field Museum
1400 S Lake Shore Dr
(312)922-9410
Adults, $12; Children $7
Tutankhamun $25; Children $16
If you're vacationing you can save money with a CityPass

Getting "Fresh"

2006-06-01T10:46:00.000-05:00

True story.

In preparation for what was intended to be a healthy dinner, I rinsed a vibrant orange bell pepper and proceeded to dry it off with a paper towel. What I saw horrified me; the white towel became a perfect canvas for the orange dye that came off of my pepper! I was shocked. But then again, in a world that unfortunately is largely driven by appearance, even my pepper had some “work” done.

This experience inspired me to take a trip last Saturday to the Green City Market in Lincoln Park. More than just your ordinary market, Green City offers children and adult educational programs on the importance of using organic products, as well as hands-on gardening and cooking lessons. If you are not up for chopping the tomatoes yourself, you can enjoy the weekly demonstrations by one of Chicago’s finest chefs, such as Rick Bayless (Frontera Grill, Topolobambo) or Shawn McClain (Spring, Green Zebra, Custom House), who support and utilize the market at their restaurants.

While I may not be a chef, I did get my start in the beauty business by experimenting in the kitchen. Why should nature’s bounty be limited only to my salad fixings? Many of the fruits, veggies, herbs and spices you encounter on a day-to-day basis have properties that mimic ingredients that are popular in the skincare market, such as alpha hydroxy and omega fatty acids. Because of my experience I tend to look at produce a little differently: You say tomato, I say, “A natural fruit acid that purifies oily skin and treats blemishes.” You say potato, I say, “Ditch the sour cream and place two raw slices over your peepers to alleviate dark circles.”

I am not talking cosmetic surgery here, but homemade remedies do in fact work. My market excursion now had a double mission. I made my way over to one of the stalls selling fresh herbs: aloe, stevia, lavender, parsley…..my mind is reeling. Is it possible, I ask myself, to cultivate a mini garden in the heart of the concrete jungle? More importantly, how about from inside my apartment? I inquire, and to my delight, all I need are a few terracotta pots and a little sunshine.

When I arrived home, I assessed my purchases while eating my completely unadulterated salad made from newly replaced produce. My lavender has yet to bud, but the parsley is flourishing. I speared a cucumber round in my mouth, and it hit me. Looking out the window at all of the people frying themselves in the sun on the beach, a post-sun remedy is in order. Jimmy Buffet talks about wasting away in Margaritaville, but he never really addresses the repercussions. Mr. Buffet, allow me to take over. In honor of the beginning of summer, I offer you two remedies for post-sun relief: homemade and pre-made. Both concoctions utilize yogurt, which acts as an anti-inflammatory to sun-harassed skin.

“Fried Your Face” Post-Sun Relief
1tbs Plain Yogurt
1tbs Fresh Parsley
1tbs Cucumber
Blend all ingredients in a food processor, apply to face and leave on for at least 20 minutes.

Korres Yogurt Cooling Gel - $23.00
A ultra cooling and soothing cream gel for long-lasting freshness and comfort to the face and body. Yogurt, a natural source of lactose, proteins, minerals and vitamins, increases the water content of the top layers of the skin instantly relieving UV-induced redness (erythema) and sensation of burning. Epilobium angustifolium and fennel extracts demonstrate exceptional anti-inflammatory and anti-irritant properties. Can be found at Merz Apothecary. (If Merz is out of the way you can also order it from Amazon: Korres Yogurt Cooling Gel - 150 ml)

Merz Apothecary - Original Lincoln Square Location
4716 North Lincoln Avenue
Chicago, IL 60625
773.989.0900
Open 9am to 6pm Monday thru Saturday

Green City Market
The Chicago Green City Market is located at the south end of Lincoln Park between 1750 N. Clark and Stockton Drive. Discounted parking is available for $4.00 for the first hour with validation in the parking lot off of Stockton Drive. You can also take a free trolley from downtown.

Downtown Chicago also has several other farmers markets to choose from.

A Chicago resident, Rebecca Taras is a licensed esthetician and creator of Cleansing Queen Bath and Body Care, which was well-received by both local and national press. She was recognized by the Chicago Fashion Foundation in 2004 by receiving the "Style Makers and Rule Breakers" award in the beauty category. Her passion for travel and wellness grew into Terminal Getaway airport spa, web apothecary and specialized hotel amenity concept, which she co-founded and serves as Vice President of Sales, Marketing and Product Development.

Gulls Be Gone

2006-05-30T15:31:00.000-05:00

Were you one of the thousands that flocked to Chicago's beaches over the holiday weekend? If so, you may have noticed the new flag system for swimming safety. The city has lightened the restrictions in part because last year the beaches were closed for 78 days. 78 days. That's two and a half months. In a city that gets about three months of beach-going weather, that's just downright cruel.

Now don't worry. It's not just a "go ahead, get sick, we don't care" response to the angry mob dressed in lycra. There are also plans to lower the pollution by reducing the amount of bird poop in the water. Seriously.

The gulls that soar through the sky are more than just a seeming anomaly in this Midwestern city. The city believes their droppings are responsible for a significant enough amount of the pollution to warrant taking drastic measures. These measures include a new crop of trash cans with lids on them, at a price of $200,000 for 4,000 (half for regular trash, half for recyclables - which in this city shocked me), and more signs asking people to use the trash cans and to be careful with their diapers. (I, for one, feel that if you have an issue with trash cans and diapers a sign is probably not going to make a difference, but it's a tangible message the city can tout.)

Those are pretty straightforward and obvious. The next two, however, had me imagining the brainstorming session:

"We've got to do something about the beach closings this year. They'll tear us apart!"

"It's those damn birds. Bad enough we've got to deal with pigeons and rats, but those seagulls pooped on me five times last year. They're a menace."

"You know, Joe, you may have a point there. I bet those birds are the reason the water's so dirty. How do we get rid of them?"

"Growing up we always used scarecrows."

"Have you seen some of the people on the beaches?"

"True."

"Oh! I've got it! We could stretch a net over the beach!"

"Are you an idiot?"

"Ok, so maybe not over the whole beach, but what about the watchamacallit - the dumpsters?"

"You may have a point there. Yes, I believe that could work. They'd be too stupid to fly under the net. Any other ideas?"

"Oh - oh - oh - dogs!"

"Dogs?"

"Yea - we could have dogs bark at them every day and they won't want to stay there. Ya' know, create an inhospitable living environment. It'll be like when my mother-in-law moved in."

"You are brilliant. You should run for Mayor."

Yes, dear readers, there will be border collies stationed at two beaches every morning to wake those sorry seagulls up. Once on their way they better not think of stopping to eat at any dumpsters, because there will be a wire grid strung over the top.

I feel cleaner already.

Chicago Park District Hotline: 312-74BEACH

Chicago Beaches Open Today

2006-05-26T13:42:00.000-05:00

Ready to don that bathing suit? Well, even if you're not Chicago's beaches are waiting for you. They open up today. Which also means summer hot spots Castaways and Oak Street Beachstro are open. Beer and brat in a bikini, any one?

When you visit you might notice flags posted in the sand. These are the city's new public awareness program for the polution in the lake. Green - dive right in. Yellow - you're taking your chances. And red of course means stay the heck out. The levels are based on the amount of E. Coli bacteria present. At the yellow level 8 out of 1000 people get sick and at the red level 14 out of 1000.

For more information, and a list of Chicago's beaches, visit the Chicago Park District's website.

A Note To "Self"

2006-05-25T13:25:00.000-05:00

A dedicated “Self” magazine reader, I am the first to admit that I have yet to participate in a “Self Workout Challenge.” It’s not as though health and fitness are not on my radar. In fact, I find myself schlepping to the gym on a daily basis and do my best to shop the perimeter of the grocery store when inspired.

But what makes a gym experience more motivating? A gal pal perhaps? How about several gal pals, a.k.a. your new best friends. I was one of hundreds that attended “Self” magazine’s Workout in the Park this past Saturday. Chicago was fortunate to be having a “good” weather day for what we call spring, so there was no excuse not to lace up my gym shoes and stroll the lakefront down to Lincoln Park.

If you happened to miss the circus-tent-like setup from a distance, the hypnotic beat radiating out of the speaker system would be the second indicator that you were in the right place. An avid planner, I ordered my ticket ahead of time on line for ten dollars. Though the fifteen dollar on-site ticket price is hardly offensive, considering any paid admission also buys you a year subscription to their magazine. But it doesn’t stop there. A friendly event worker handed me a large sack to be filled with goodies ranging from Clarins skin care to Power Bars.

Like a kid in a candy store I had to regain my focus as to why I decided to attend in the first place. The name of the event, after all, is “workout” in the park. Lucky for me, the main stage was about to start “Bikini Body Boot Camp.” Believe it or not, I am one of the few people who loves squats and lunges, so I was in my glory. It was nice to be able to trade the windowless environs of the gym for a grassy knoll in Lincoln Park. Not to mention, the scent of testosterone overload cannot compete with a good dose of fresh air in your lungs. Other classes sponsored by Crunch fitness were; Power Yoga, Cardio Striptease, Ballroom Blitz, Abs and Hip-Hop. New to the scene was Kardio Katini, which utilizes a Katini stick to prepare one for a golf excursion or tennis match. Now how is that for multitasking?

Post workout, I re-fueled my body with berry cream cheese goodness over at the Quaker Rice Cake tent. It’s a healthier alternative to the actual cheesecake bars of years past. Thank you “Self,” we did not sweat our butts off for nothing! Had I more time, I might have had a mini makeover in the Cover Girl Cosmetics area, which proved to be very popular. The esthetician in me loved the fact that Clarins actually had a station to reapply sunscreen. Previous events had more vendors selling items such as purses and jewelry. This year’s program had more sample booths and greater participation in the actual workouts, which should be the overall focus. After all, no girl really needs motivation to go shopping!

Monday dieter or spinning queen, all shapes, sizes and age groups were in attendance last Saturday. A gathering such as this makes one realize that at the end of the day, we are not alone when it comes to finding the motivation to begin, or sustain, a healthy lifestyle. So whether your goal this summer is the bikini or the “modest” tank number, may the ultimate accomplishment be SELF-satisfaction.

A Chicago resident, Rebecca Taras is a licensed esthetician and creator of Cleansing Queen Bath and Body Care, which was well-received by both local and national press. She was recognized by the Chicago Fashion Foundation in 2004 by receiving the "Style Makers and Rule Breakers" award in the beauty category. Her passion for travel and wellness grew into Terminal Getaway airport spa, web apothecary and specialized hotel amenity concept, which she co-founded and serves as Vice President of Sales, Marketing and Product Development.