[Panic Attack] or My First Medill Post

I start journalism school next week as many of you who read this blog know. I've drained all meaning out of the word "excited" because, although I'm technically supposed to be some sort of wordsmith, I have a very hard time explaining how incredibly excited I am to take my life and passions to the next level. I felt like I was in suspended animation (another phrase I constantly repeated to anyone who asked) waiting for the day I left my job so I could start classes at Northwestern. Now that the day I've been so antsy about is mere days away, I am freaking the eff out.

My train of thought?

Oh-my-god-who-told-me-I-was-a-good-writer-why-would-they-lie-like-that-oh-my-god-I'm-going-to-be-in-debt-for-the-rest-of-my-natural-life-I'm-going-into-journalism-oh-my-god-there's-no-money-in-that-I-have-no-money-now-oh-my-god-everyone-but-me-seems-to-be-prepared-for-this-they've-already-bought-the-software-we-need-I-don't-have-any-money-for-any-of-that-I-barely-have-enough-left-in-my-savings-for-this-month's-rent-what-if-financial-aid-just-barely-covers-school-fees-and-I-have-to-take-out-another-loan-just-to-get-by-oh-my-god-I-think-I-forgot-how-to-write-what-if-I've-been-wrong-for-the-past 14-years-maybe-I'm-not-supposed-to-be-a-journalist-what-if-I-suck-oh-my-god-oh-my-god-oh-my-god [mental flatline]

So, the rest of this weekend will be devoted to me creating the kind of mental preparedness and physical comfort I need to even approach getting over this panic attack. Meaning, I'll be cleaning my apartment (because when I'm freaking the eff out, messes just make me feel more ill at ease), creating To-Do lists (because I love making lists and crossing things off said lists means I'm doing something right), planning and mapping my daily schedule so I won't feel completely lost when I'm on campus, and doing Lamaze-style breathing to keep myself afloat and from throwing myself into a full out fit.

So far I've gotten my class schedule...

2009 Winter Schedule Class Schedule JOUR 400-1-20 LEC (32661) WeThFr 9:00AM - 10:30AM Fisk Hall 311 JOUR 400-1-60 LAB (33945) Tu 6:00PM - 9:00PM Fisk Hall 306 WeThFr 10:30AM - 5:00PM Fisk Hall 306 JOUR 400-2-22 LEC (32666) Tu 1:00PM - 4:00PM Fisk Hall 308 JOUR 400-3-20 LEC (32631) Mo 9:00AM - 12:00PM Fisk Hall 311 JOUR 401-0-20 LEC (32668) Mo 1:00PM - 4:00PM Fisk Hall 311

Oh-my-god-they-weren't-kidding-this-IS-like-journalism-boot-camp-oh-my-god-am-I-ever-going-to-see-my-boyfriend-and-friends-again?

...I've applied for Medill Business Cards, called my parents about Immunization records, and uploaded a bio and picture for Medill Winter 2009 MSJ's Face Book called "Who's Who"...

During her undergraduate years at the University of Chicago, Anthonia discovered her love for journalism as a writer for the Chicago Weekly. Soon after becoming the Weekly's managing editor her third year, Anthonia helped transform the paper from unfocused student life articles to an arts and entertainment publication focusing on the often overlooked South Side of Chicago. After interning for the Urban Flavor and UR Chicago (and currently freelancing for Venus Zine and Honey Mag online), Anthonia hopes to explore other mediums and topics outside of lifestyle and entertainment reporting.

Oh-my-god-I-look-hideous-the-picture-is-too-dark-everyone-else-looks-better-oh-my-god-I-went-over-the-word-limit-my-bio-is-longer-than-everyone's-oh-my-god-I-look-like-I-think-my-experience-is-better-than-theirs-ahhhhhhhhhhhhhhh

Ahem. I really hope this hyperventilating voice inside my head won't be following me around for the next year.

See What Develops

I hope everyone enjoyed the holidays! My boyfriend and I returned to a very wet and warm Chicago late last night after spending a few days with his family in Absolute Delight, a cabin in Maryland. I always love spending time with Derek's family and enjoy sharing in their love of storytelling and tradition.

Now that we're back in our apartment, we've settled into our routines: me sprawled out on the sofa, checking out my favorite blogs and sites; Derek at our desk, turning around every so often to update me about something ridiculous (i.e. a website where you can download free B movies like "JC," a tale of teenaged Jesus Christ reincarnate who rebels against his extreme Southern Baptist father and leads an LSD fueled pilgrimage out west); NPR streaming from his laptop. I've jumped from one emotional extreme to the next these past two weeks, so it's nice to have things moving at a familiar and happy medium.

Speaking of familiar and happy mediums, Polaroids are making a comeback despite the company's decision to discontinue the technology beloved by model casters, party photographers, and hipsters alike. A program called Poladroid takes JPEG images from online or from your digital camera and creates the iconic high contrast images surrounded by a white box. PC users can now download the program, and below you'll find some of my pictures from the past two weeks.

Lights on the Plaza in Kansas City, MO.

Little brothers, Ladi (19) and Tunde (13).

Stockings! (I forgot to bring one for myself so Derek and I made do with a pair of my thick winter stockings.)

Derek learning how to knit.

Cousin Tim with the cutest puppy ever, Nora. I want a puppy.

Squeal! Little Gracie snuggling on the floor with the puppy.

Procrastination before my Vacation

I'm going back home to Kansas City today from December 14 - 23. I haven't been home in awhile, so I'm pretty excited to see my parents, younger brothers, and my two good friends (along with the satellite friends from high school who are fun to catch up with). This weekend has been amazing: my boyfriend walked in his graduation ceremony and we celebrated the momentous occasion with great food, laughs, toasts, tears, and drinks. I'll put pictures of that up on a later date; I really should start packing.


I <3 Dresses from katie sokoler on Vimeo.

(This random video sums up my feelings about dresses. I wish I had that many...)

Good Morning

My boyfriend is graduating from the University of Chicago tomorrow afternoon. I'm beyond proud of him, considering the extreme circumstances he had to overcome to reach this day. What once seemed distant and unattainable is well within his grasp and I'm pretty sure I'm going to be the happiest significant other at Rockefeller Chapel tomorrow.

Congraduations Derek from Me and Kanye West:



(Pst: I'll make sure you get there on time and that the Delorian will start)

It Starts

Holiday sales and complimentary drinks to celebrate the season!

Pay Pal

(photo credit: New York Times, Tim Boyle/Getty Images)

Corruption in Chicago politics is as much a part of the city's history as the Great Chicago Fire or the remnants of stockyards in the Southwest side. But today the inside joke has made national headlines: Governor Rod Blagojevich has been arrested on federal corruption charges for planning to sell now President-elect Obama's senator seat to the highest bidder. The Governor had been under investigation prior to his arrest for his relationship with political fundraiser Tony Rezco.

Many are pushing for his resignation. I'm just processing all of this myself, but here are links to articles about the scandal in the Chicago Tribune and the New York Times. The entire front page of the Tribune is devoted to coverage as it breaks.

Holiday Gift Guide #2

I Am Chicago's second holiday gift guide is dedicated to mothers. I feel as though whether the mom on your gift list is a new mother or an empty nester, comfort is key when considering what gift to buy.





This large patterned cape from Urban Outfitters screams stylish comfort. Mom can wrap it over her shoulders and enjoy a cup of tea during her downtime or use it as a layering piece during these cooler months. It'll up your mom's cool quotient too if you tell her its from Urban Outfitters.



Patterned Cape, $24.99, Urban Outfitters.








Nothing is more relaxing then luxuriating in a tub after a long day. Get rid of the Walgreen's brand body soap and treat your mom to the good stuff: Fresh's triple milled pure vegetable soaps. The oval bars are packed with moisturizing shea butter (which is definitely necessary during the winter to keep sky from drying out from harsh weather) and smell delicious. Each is wrapped in lovely Chinoiserie paper and comes in a reusable box.

Oval Soap Trio II, $42, Fresh.







Who doesn't love cashmere? Treat your mom to a nice cashmere blend that will accentuate any outfit or act as a very fancy scarf.


Refined Silk-Cashmere Wrap, $75, J Crew








My mom works at a nursing home in Kansas City, MO. While I was driving her to work one day, she looked down at her hands and exclaimed, "My hands look like that of a farmer's wife!" She immediately reached into her work bag for lotion and worked it into her hands. To keep mom's hands from "farmer's wife" territory, get her this enriched hand cream made with rosewater and glycerin. An added bonus for environmentally conscious moms? The cream is free of animal byproducts and wasn't tested on any creatures, either. And it diminishes the appearance of sun damage. What's not to love?

Dr. Hunter Hand Creme, $12, Caswell-Masey

It's A Good Thing I'm Going to Journalism School

See how you fare with the New York Times "After the Deadline" Quiz.

Michelle O

(photo credit: WWD, Christian Lacroix sketch for Michelle Obama)

The fashion world has been abuzz thanks to the promise of a fashion-forward First Lady in the White House. Michelle Obama has already been compared to Our Lady Jackie O and top designers are clamoring for a chance to dress her. The Fashion Bomb just posted an entry on WWD's (Women's Wear Daily) collection of designers' sketches for Michelle's Inaugural gown. The slideshow contains a who's who of designers like Marc Jacobs, Oscar de la Renta, Karl Lagerfeld, and Diane von Furstenburg. Whatever she decides, I'm sure she'll look gorgeous.

Should Just Remember This...

Sia's performance of her single "Soon We'll Be Found" from her latest album "Some People Have Real Problems" was posted on Kanye West blog this morning. Her voice is so rich and mournful: I immediately felt a lump in my throat and tears sprang to my eyes. Music has a way of translating exactly how one feels without the messy business of actually articulating oneself. I should just play songs to explain myself.

Come along it is the break of day
Surely now, you'll have some things to say
It's not the time for telling tales on me

So come along, it wont be long
'Til we return happy
Shut your eyes, there are no lies
In this world we call sleep
Let's desert this day of hurt
Tomorrow we'll be free

Let's not fight I'm tired can't we just sleep tonight
Don't Turn away it's just there's nothing left here to say
Turn around I know we're lost but soon we'll be found

Well it's been rough but we'll be just fine
Work it out yeah we'll survive
You mustn't let a few bad times dictate

So come along, it wont be long
'Til we return happy
Shut your eyes, there are no lies
In this world we call sleep
Let's desert this day of work
Tomorrow we'll be free

Let's not fight I'm tired can't we just sleep tonight
Don't turn away it's just there's nothing left here to say
Turn around I know we're lost but soon we'll be found

Holiday Gift Guide

Many of my favorite blogs and websites offer holiday gift guides for their readers. One of the things I've noticed recently about these guides is that in today's economic they either range from the wildly expensive ("Dahling, what recession," sniffs Neiman Marcus) to the just plain, old bad (I hope no one gifts me a paper bag vase). With this in mind, I present to you a new series: I Am Chicago's Holiday Gift Guide '08.

Gift Guide #1: For Dad


AMC's hit drama Mad Men continues to win fans with its riveting depiction of American life during the early 60s. Critics and fans alike swoon over the attention to detail and gripping plot lines (not to mention Jon Hamm's portrayal of handsome yet distant ad man Don Draper) Get your father hooked on the series with Season One on DVD.




Mad Men, Season One, $27.49, Amazon.com




The iPod has become synonymous with the MP3 player since its launch in 2001. The wee iPod Shuffle doesn't pack as big of a punch as the Nano or Classic versions, but at $49 and with space for up to 500 songs it should be more than enough to keep your music loving pops happy on the treadmill, while mowing, or reading the paper. You can also engrave a special message for free when you order on Apple.com. The user friendly iPod and iTunes interface will also make any tech weary dad feel like a pro--and keep you from having to play IT guru over the phone.


iPod Shuffle (comes in 5 colors), $49, Apple.com




If your dad is anything like mine, his record collection is a thing worthy of awe. Vinyl collecting dust in stacks or haphazardly stacked away for a rainy day have been forgotten by the continuing wave of new technology, but ol' dad still remembers them fondly. Help him make the transition to today with this USB Vinyl Archiver from Fred Flare. The EZ Vinyl Converter automatically uploads songs to your iTunes library, which he can then transfer to his iPod. Dad will thank you for bringing back the music of his youth, and Mom will be happy those records won't be taking up any more space in the garage.

USB vinyl archiver, $129 (originally $150), Fredflare.com

Double Team

The Obamas will grace the covers of the January 2009 edition of Essence Magazine.

Cyber Monday, Party Wednesday

(image courtesy of SHE Boutique: for more information on pieces click here)

High end shopping has taken a hit as Americans reevaluate their shopping habits, but the ladies behind SHE boutique (an acronym for "She Has Everything") aren't batting a mascaraed eyelash. The shop continues to offer brand name designer threads to women at their Lincoln Park (1024 W. Armitage) and Highland Park (483 Central) locations. To help the fashion, yet budget conscious of us, SHE boutique has a promotional sale going on their website in honor of Cyber Monday—the biggest online shopping day of the year. Just type cybermonday on the coupon code field when it's time to check out and enjoy 50% off your selection.

SHE is also putting together a winter fashion show in conjunction with GenArt this Wednesday. With today's first big snow in Chicago, Chicagoans will definitely be looking for inspiration to stay fierce while beleaguered in layers. The event will take place at Vertigo Sky Lounge at Dana Hotel (600 N. State), a new bar that has the Gold Coast buzzing. With savings today and partying Wednesday, SHE has you covered—just remember to RSVP for the party today at rsvpchicago@genart.org.

The Three Cs

The Midwest and the Cinema with a capital C are very rarely said in the same sentence. Cinema and Culture has been claimed by the coasts for years, but another C word has claimed the nation's attention: Chicago. With the nation's eyes trained on the Second City as President-Elect Obama shapes our future from here, Chicago's cultural wealth is finally being acknowledged by the masses.

For those of us that didn't need an Obama presidency to know what a vibrant city Chicago is, the Midwest Independent Film Festival continues to be a cultural boon. Their first Tuesday screenings at the Landscape Century Cinema Theatre remains high on the must-do lists of newspapers and lifestyle websites like Going. Tomorrow the Midwest Independent Film Festival will host their first fundraising gala: the 2008 Best of the Midwest Awards, a ceremony to "recognize the premier films and filmmakers" screened during this year's first Tuesday film festival screenings.

Taking place at Rockit Bar and Grill (22 W. Hubbard) from 6-9, the night promises to excite. Limited tickets are still available and with delicious appetizers provided by Rockit, a cocktail reception hosted by Effen Vodka and Corona, and all proceeds going towards the nonprofit organization's 2009 budget, $50 sounds like a steal. Buy tickets here.

Bhangratheque!

If you're still in the city this week, work off that post-Thanksgiving turkey at Bhangrafest!

Post Secret

I've been thinking a lot about who I am, why I do the things I do, why I feel the way I feel and it left me in a pretty depressed mood. If I could have that operation done in "Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind" I would and just start removing all the memories I have that I replay over and over and over again that put me in such a bad mood. Maybe its SAD (what an ironic acronym) now that the weather has turned wintery. I had all of this in mind when I stumbled upon Post Secret. Most of you may already know about this, but Post Secret is a website where people mail in postcards they've altered to reveal their deepest, darkest secrets.

Fair warning: while some of them can be extremely life-affirming, there are others that are just super depressing and makes you think about how much pain people inflict on themselves and others. Here are a few that especially spoke to me today...


This one made me think of my boyfriend, and how he continues to love me despite my best efforts to push him away.


This one made me think of my best friend Cassie, and a story she used to tell us about how she put earthworms in her pockets during recess when she was a kid. She still has the sweetest heart and I love her so much for it.


It must be great to have such an unshakable faith in a higher being... it must make life at least somewhat easier.


I'm sure plenty of people (myself included) do this...

Now I'm off to get diner food with my boyfriend and watch a movie I hope will lift me out of this funk I'm in.

Pop Art, Kanye West

I didn't think it was possible...but this video made me like Kanye West even more.

Precious

I need something to wipe the bitter taste of sour grapes Nader (saying Obama could either be an Uncle Sam or Uncle Tom for this country), possible arson involved in a black church burning down in Springfield, MA hours after the historic election, and a press release announcing Westboro Baptist Church's plans to picket President-Elect Obama's grandmother's funeral. And if you didn't know any of this before reading that previous sentence, you probably will to.

My offering:



This article in the New York Times.

'I will tell my children of this day, and they will pass it on from generation to generation and know about the first black president,' [10-year-old Torin Wlson] wrote in his essay. 'And I know that he will certainly not be the last.”

In the Mood for Love..At the Obama Rally

While it was impossible to find my boyfriend and close friends among the throngs of people at Grant Park last night, some people were able to find their next potential mate for a few fleeting moments before the crowd swallowed them up. That's where Missed Connections comes in. Missed Connections is a forum on Craigslist where people can post descriptions of people they had brief, yet chemistry filled encounters with in the hopes that person will stumble upon it and contact them.

My friend and facial hair enthusiast posted a pretty good one this morning and it got me the thinking: how many people put up Missed Connections from the Obama Rally? The results are hilarious. My favorites?


Petite Woman with Huge Chest at Obama Rally - m4w - 32
Asked for a cigarette when Obama won - m4m - 35
MC at Obama Rally - "There's another state I'm not going to" - w4m - 28
to the trio of girls at Grant Park who took me to a bar, then left - m4w - 23
Rally Photographer, all in black, dapper hat and brass cuff buttons - w4m

Obama brings so many people together!

Pictures from the Rally

I'm so glad I got to be a part of the rally. The magnitude of Obama's election didn't fully hit me until I saw Jesse Jackson cry, saw people dancing in Kenya, spoke to my father about how family in Nigeria called and congratulated him as if he had won, and did a quick review of civil rights history unmarred by talking heads' analysis. Being of my generation where a lot of the groundwork has already been done to become whatever I want to be, it's easy to forget or gloss over how far African-Americans and women have come. I had a "post-race" view of the election; of course Obama would win—he was the best man for the job despite the racially driven anxiety and attacks right wing voters.

But man... he has broken a tremendous glass ceiling for African-Americans. He had the weight of an ugly history on his shoulders, and is toting it along with acknowledgment of its presence but a confidence that it can be shaken off, allowing for a united America.

Enough with my ramblings. Click here for a slideshow sampling of the pictures I took:

The Time For Healing Has Begun

I was at Grant Park with thousands of other Chicagoans watching the polls roll in as America rallied and elected our next president of the United States, Barack Obama. My heart swelled about 3x its size. my face hurts from smiling so hard. I felt the presence of history tonight and I am both excited and scared to see what the next 4 years hold for us. I hope Obama's message resonates across the nation: we are Americans not red Americans or blue Americans, not black, brown, yellow, or white Americans.

I'm going to go to bed, but here are some images from Jezebel to look at before I show you some of the pictures I took while there.

It's Really All Quite Simple

It's Election Day: exercise your right to vote.

OMFG For Real

THE RUMORS ARE TRUE!!!!!



After days of horrible news after horrible news (I couldn't even bring myself to write about the tragedy that befell Jennifer Hudson and her sister), an email from the Obama Campaign brightened my day.

Obama will be having an election night event in Grant Park, which you can register for online tickets here. Gates open at 8:30, but can you imagine the crowd that will be there, just to experience this moment of history, to hear whatever this man has to say to us as he begins his path towards ushering America into a new dawn (or, heaven forbid, console us as America stands in front of a social/political/international firing squad)?!

I...can't...WAIT!

Groovy, Baby

MGMT - New Music - More Music Videos

I love "Electric Feel" by MGMT. It makes me want to dance as soon as I hear it.

"Undecided"

David Sedaris, a writer who I have already fully disclosed my love for, has written a short piece in the New Yorker about Undecided voters in this year's election appropriately titled "Undecided." In true Sedaris fashion it's thoughtful, hilarious, and a must read. Enjoy!

If You Like It Then You Shoulda Put A Ring On It

• Beyoncé
• New Music

1. I wish I could dance like that.
2. I wish I looked like that.
3. Damn, that's a big ring.
4. I can not get this song or its Fossy-esque dance moves out of my head. Pretty embarrassing, but I try to do them at my desk without the same flawless results.

Are You Afraid of the Dark?

Well, you shouldn't be. Especially if we're talking about the Art Institute's Art After Dark event this Friday. The event series is definitely not one to be missed: you get to view relatively new exhibits (this month, Henri Cartier-Bresson's photojournalistic glimpse of Paris are on display), see amazing performance art courtesy of Collaboraction, dance, people watch, drink, and eat to your heart's content. The Art Institute (111 S. Michigan Ave.) intends to keep the party going with an after party at the Base Bar at the Hard Rock Hotel (230 N. Michigan Ave.). To order tickets, click here.

Chicago International Film Festival

The Chicago International Film Festival, in its forty-fourth year, is on in various movie theaters across the city. Click here for a list of the must see/skip movies on the schedule according to Metromix. My picks: Gael Garcia Bernal's "Deficit", animator and director Bill Plympton's "Idiots and Angels", and Charlie Kaufman's "Synecdoche, NY" starring Phillip Seymour Hoffman, just to name a few.

"Bottom of the Ninth....Nine Runs Down...and [McCain is] the Cubs..."

(photo credit: Damen Winter for the New York Times)

Last night, my boyfriend and I watched the final Presidential Debate at the Chicago History Museum (1601 N. Clark), a part of their In the K/Now series. The evening began with a moderator and speakers, including 848 and WBEZ political reporter Ben Calhoun (you're amazing on 848!), and two other gentleman whose names I couldn't hear, sadly. The gem above is from one of them, continuing the use of sports analogies throughout the discussion.

The crowd and panel were decidedly for Obama and we all laughed heartily at every dig at McCain's sinking ship. I had hoped there would be an equal mix of conservative and liberal speakers, just to make things interesting, but I guess its hard to find McCain supporters in this blue state and in Obama's home turf of Chicago. In effect, the panel was preaching to an enthusiastic choir, with only three undecideds in the room.

After the panel discussion, we watched the debate. I thought it was the best debate between the two, with moderator Bob Schieffer getting more specifics out of the candidates than before. Joe the Plumber made the audience gag, McCain's erratic facial ticks scared us all, and Obama's calm under McCain's lies and misrepresentations made me think all the more that this man needs to be in the White House.

Although there wasn't a follow up by the panel after the debate, overall I enjoyed my first experience at the Chicago History Museum and look forward to attending any other of their special events that pique my interest.

Another Voting Reminder

For all my talk about being registered to vote, I should also add that one should make sure their voter registration is up-to-date so they can go to the correct voting location. I used Vote For Change to download and print forms updating my voter registration and for some reason, this change hasn't been noted on the website or the Chicago Board of Elections site either.

I could either go back down to the South Side (where I am currently registered) to vote come election day, go in person to the Cook County Clerk office downtown and update my registration there, or vote early at a nearby Northwest side location.

I'm leaning towards early voting - I doubt some October surprise is going to sway my vote. But again, make sure you're registered to vote and know where your district's polling site is!

Love Lock Down

Another rainy day in Chicago. I'm waiting for my boyfriend to get back home so we can head to the opera (more on that tomorrow), but here's Kanye West's video for the first single off his "808 and Heartbreak" album "Love Lock Down." The radio DJs on 103.5 didn't "get" the video and said he was trying to be deeper than the song calls for. I disagree, but then again 1- I think Kanye can do no wrong and 2- appreciate any break from the hip-hop video narrative of bling, bills, and bitches. What do you think?

Lazy Sunday Love

Completely self-indulgent post but I live for moments like this.

I am lounging on my sofa as late afternoon sunlight streams through my apartment windows. I'm reading my favorite blogs, the New York Times, and drinking tea in my bright orange caftan I had made in Nigeria from some cloth my Aunt gave me as a gift. My boyfriend is at our desk listening to jazz and geeking out and I just got off the phone with my best friend who I love like a sister who makes me laugh like no other.


I am having a quiet, "God, it feels good to be alive" moment.

No Words

Make Sure You Are Registered to Vote!

Vote For Change is a helpful website that puts together a voter registration card for you if you've yet to register, moved and haven't updated your registration, or need an absentee ballot. As Joe Biden stressed in the Vice Presidential Debate, this November 4 will be the single most important our generation has ever voted in. With the economy and America in the catastrophic state its in, we can not afford to assume Obama will clinch the election. His lead in the polls is encouraging but slim and who knows how people will actually vote come election day (the Bradley effect, anyone?) So please, check Vote For Change to make sure your voter registration info is up to date and vote November 4.

While wide sweeping change is unlikely to happen, to quote Monhandas Gandhi, "We need to be the change we wish to see in the world."

The Subprime Primer

This Powerpoint has been making the rounds since early spring when news of the subprime mortgage crisis first broke. Now that we're looking at at $700 billion bailout, I think it does some good to get reacquainted with (or just plain understand) how America got here in the first place.

Despite the stick men figures, this makes the subprime crisis understandable/makes me all the more angry at the level of greed that ensures the haves will always have more than the have nots.

The Great Debates (and 100th Post)

(photo credit: Richard Perry for the New York Times)

I watched last night's Vice Presidential Debates at the Whirlaway Lounge (3224 W. Fullerton) in Logan Square. It was a small, narrow bar with most eyes glued to the debates on the plasma screen as the three Cubs' fans in the corner cursed and cheered at the playoff game on mute. I could go on and on about how Palin dodged questions, stuck to the talking point(s) (because really, all she has is energy) her coaches spoon fed her, and clung to her "folksy" hockey mom persona for dear life...but really, half the fun of watching her slip ups were experiencing them with like minded, slightly buzzed bar patrons.

For the third and last presidential debate, I'll be far away from $2.50 PBR and .50 bags of Doritos in favor of a panel discussion at the Chicago History Museum (1601 N. Clark).

The Chicago History Museum has screened the presidential and vice presidential debates in their lecture hall, accompanied with a discussion led by Chicago professors and journalists. I'm excited to hear what Chicago's political minds have to say in real time. There is a suggested donation of $5 but free tickets are also available. Buy your tickets here.

Recap
Where: Chicago History Museum, 1601 W. Clark
When: October 15, 7pm
What: In the K/Now: Presidential Debate II Domestic Policy
Cost: $5 suggested donation, free tickets available

The White City Revisted

(photo credit: "Crowd on the Shore," Chicago Tribune photo archive)

Chicago was the home of the World's Fair in 1893, taking the honor from other American cities (Ha! Take that New York!) skeptical of Chicago's ability to outshine the Exposition in Paris that had captured the world's imagination. The city was still crawling out of the Great Chicago Fire wreckage and was considered less cosmopolitan than other cities vying for the Fair. Chicago architect Daniel Burnham met the challenge and exceeded expectations as the fairgrounds (known as the White City for its gleaming white stucco buildings) rose up on the South Side along Midway Plaissance and Jackson Park, delighting Chicagoans and patrons the world over.

Erik Larson does a great job recasting the story of the Chicago World's Fair in his book, Devil in the White City, a definite must read. Today, the Chicago Tribune has dug up beautiful, old archival photos (which, if you read the book, makes them all the more special considering what a tight hold Burnham had on photography within the fair grounds). Click here for more pictures.

"I Got Your Crazy"

Don't you just love the new Britney Spears single? I am all about Ms. Spears making a full comeback into pop stardom after dangling off the crazy cliff for over 2 years. Listen to it here:

Weekend Guide, September 26-28

I haven't done this in awhile, but this weekend is supposed to be gorgeous! Enjoy the last few days of warm weather by going to any one of these events this weekend (or use MetroMix, Going, and any other number of websites to find out what's going on in the City of Wind)...

Friday, September 26

Sex, Lies, and Little Black Dresses
Ok, so I have never been to this event, but doesn't it sound amazingly ridiculous? Every last Friday of the month, a fashionable theme is picked out by the people of Boutique Nightclub. This month it's "Tight Fit" and ladies wearing corsets or bustiers get in free until midnight and get a chance of winning a $100 certificate to G Boutique (link may or may not be SFW). A-mazing. For more info, click here.



Bump Soul Party
Swoon! I love old school soul and R&B. I love Wicker Park. I love dancing. Therefore a soul dance party at the Subterranean (2011 W. North) in Wicker Park sounds like a match made in heaven. Make sure to get there before 10:30 for no cover, free boozing (Highlife, the Champagne of Beers) grooving.

Saturday, September 27



Wired NextFest
WIRED, a magazine thats profiles all things tech, is taking over Millenium Park's South Promenade starting this Saturday with its NextFest, a "showcase of the global innovations transforming our world." See the future now with 44 exhibits (covering everything from robotics to green living) and gadgets on display until October 17. Click here for times and more info.





Second Annual Hyde Park Jazz Festival
14 hours of free jazz in historic and beautiful Hyde Park on a sunny Saturday afternoon. What more could you ask for? Venues and performances are spread throughout the neighborhood, so visit the website for specific information. The event kicks off at noon in the DuSable African American Museum (740 E. 56th Pl) with a performance by the Jazz Institutes's Jazz Links ensemble and ends midnight at the International House (1414 E. 59th St) with a midnight Slam Jam. I may have to swing by my old neighborhood to check this one out...

Sunday, September 28

Enjoy the City!
Walk around your neighborhood! Go to the Lake! Play in an area park! Have a picnic! Do something to enjoy the predicted 73° weather.

I'm planning on picnicing with my boyfriend and then walking to a used book store. What will you be doing?

A Chill in the Air

September 22 was the first official day of Autumn. While the sun is still shining and the temperature hovers in the high 70s, low 80s, I know that Fall is upon us. Despite all my talk of how amazing Chicago in the Summer is (and it is!), Fall is my favorite all around season. The crispness of the air, the sound of acorns and leaves crunching underfoot...everything seems sharper and in focus.

Maybe it's me holding on to the one part of Fall that held so much excitement for me as a wee lass in Kansas City...Back to School shopping. It was the upside to ending the longer days of play: the anticipation of showing off my back to school clothes months before the weather actually called for my new turtlenecks, jeans, and coats.

One trend that I hope to implement into my nascent Fall wardrobe. Scarves. And thankfully the women at WhoWhatWear Daily have posted a video on just how to wear the trend.

So Topical

I love Someecards, a website full of free sarcastic and witty e-cards. The snarky words mixed with the graphics of yesteryear make it all the more enjoyable.

Deluge

This past weekend was nothing but rain, rain, and more rain. Walking out into the chilly air this morning, I could barely tell that most of my street had been filled with sewage and rain water just two days before. In fact, the sun shining and people commuting almost made me forget the record rain fall (in a calendar day) Chicago had experienced. Until I saw this...


(photo credit: User Aerobat79 from ChicagoTribune.com. For more reader submitted pictures of the flooding in Illinois, click here)

Illinois Governor Ron Blagojevich named 7 counties as disaster areas.

A Return to Good Political Satire

Last night's Saturday Night Live's Premiere opener

"I See Those Flashing Lights..."

(photo credit: People)


Man, these [expletive]s got me
I hate these [expletive]s more than the Nazis
--Kanye West, "Flashing Lights"


Kanye West, rapper, performer and arguably Chicago's favorite native son, was arrested yesterday after a scuffle with a paparazzo at LAX airport. During the skirmish, West reportedly broke a camera valued at $10,000; he was charged with vandalism (really?) and bail was posted at $20,000. West's road manager was also arrested for vandalism and battery.

Now, I love celebrity gossip (even though I like to rationalize that I'm not a part of the problem since I only read the gossip online and don't buy the magazines). I know that love gives the paparazzo reason to stalk celebrities for the photos that fetch thousands for their pockets and millions for gossip magazines. But, I can understand why at 7 in the morning Kanye might have flipped. I can't say I wouldn't have done the same thing.

I'm pretty disgusted with the celebrity culture we live in that places more importance on what the girls of The Hills are doing over the fact that as mayor of Wasilla, Alaska, Republican VP candidate Sarah Palin charged rape victims for the rape kits used to procure the DNA of a victim's assailant. [Opposing viewpoint, for the sake of presenting both sides, here]

Really, the flashing lights should be pointed at the people who are making the decisions (or, as the case may be, poised to make the decisions) that affect policy and the way we live our lives. Not at Kanye West, or any other celebrity, trying to get through airport security and live their normal, everyday lives. They are just like US you know.

Barack Obama on David Letterman

Click here to see Jezebel's write up and clip of Barack Obama's winsome appearance on David Letterman.

Such A Fickle Mistress..

(View of Chicago from Lake Michigan. Photo credit: Me)

Ah, Chicago. How I love her and loathe her all at the same time. She jerks me around, providing the highest of highs (Chicago in the Summer) and the lowest of lows (Chicago in the W-word).

I don't want summer to be over, but every 2-bit radio DJ and random person trying to make conversation seems to take glee in the brisker winds, the shorter days and earlier sunsets. It's September! You just got here, summer! Why did I find myself in shorts during a sudden cold downpour yesterday, shivering and wet in 50 degree weather? Why am I wearing a light-weight sweater and trench coat today? It's not fair.

So hey, Summer. Stick around. Because while I do love the Fall Fashions in every store window I pass, I still want to hold onto carefree days as long as humanly possible.

xoxo,
Me

My People, My People

My parents are from Nigeria, and to be exact, they're Yoruba. So imagine how my cultural pride swelled when I got this email from Good For Party about their latest event. DJ Osunlande will spin an African and Latin house music set at the green friendly bar Lumen (839 W. Fulton Market). RSVP here or pay $10 at the door from 9pm-2am.

"I Just Want to Know!"

By this point, you've already heard about Sarah Palin. How this woman was just a hockey mom from Alaska before being thrust into the national spotlight with an ill-conceived ploy to grab angry Hilary Clinton supporters and social conservatives by being McCain's VP choice. How her 17-year old daughter is 5-months pregnant and plans to marry the father, making Democrats crow over how the abstinence-only sex education her mother supports could have saved her from teen pregnancy (despite the fact Palin does not support sex education, Alaska does offer sex ed in its schools). But this video of Cambell Brown sticking it to Republican strategist Tucker Bounds by asking him a simple question as to Palin's experience in the Alaskan National Guard gives me more reason to believe McCain's decision to make Palin his VP is the first tap on the nail in the McCain Presidency coffin.

Free Bird

(photo courtesy of TimeOut Chicago)

One of my goals for my Single Gal Summer was to attend an outdoor concert. I was back in Kansas City during the muddy debauchery of Pitchfork and couldn't afford the 3-day Lollapalooza fest, but a free concert at the Jay Pritzker Pavilion in Millennium Park is not something to be missed. Especially when it features the many talents of Chicago Native Andrew Bird.

Bird will be performing this Wednesday at 6:30pm. For more info, click here.