Friday, May 30, 2008

Come Dance with Bully in the Hallway tomorrow


Come see them at Elbo Room tomorrow... 

Mayfest in Lincoln Square


In case you didn't know A LOT of street festivals are happening in Chicago this weekend. Let's hope we have some good weather to go with them. Tomorrow I'm hitting up Mayfest with friends and Sunday going to check out Ted Leo and the 1900s at Do-Division. This is absolutely one of my favorite things with Chicago summers.. All the great street festivals,music, food and beer.


Now I'm just keeping my fingers crossed that the rain holds out for the Rooftop BBQ tonight... It's okay.. we are going to get through Friday-ness.

Thursday, May 29, 2008

Sex and The City Party tonight

Enclave is hosting another Sex & The City party tonight... Let's hope its not as awful as the last one they hosted.. The one word in this whole invite that is attracting me to this event is M-O-J-I-T-O!!!


Official After Party for the Sex and The City Movie premiere!

Cosmopolitan Magazine, Bacardi Silver Mojito and Enclave are hosting this soiree at Enclave (220 W. Chicago) directly after the movie premiere at AMC River East.

Doors open at 9 p.m. and guests can indulge in massage stations, free astrology readings, delectable desserts and various raffle prizes including Cosmopolitan gift bags and a $1000 gift certificate to Jimmy Choo!

Guests can RSVP for complimentary cover before 11 p.m. and enjoy special Bacardi Mojito signature drinks from 9 p.m. To 11 p.m. To RSVP go to www.enclavechicago.com. For more information call 312-654-0234.

Verona Red plays Elbo Room 5/30/08





Come support the awesome Chicago Band Verona Red on Friday night! They are really good friends of mine and really know how to put on an awesome show...

Hello, Thursday

Well, the week after Memorial Day is turning to be out pretty short. Just one more day left! I spent pretty much my whole Wednesday on an airplane to Dallas.. We had a stop in Denver there and on the way back. It's cool to be in three cities in one day. Yesterday was pretty long and I am pretty tired today..but hopefully I'll have some good stuff for you all later.

But here are some of my questions for you....

Do you plan to go check out this awesome band Bully in the Hallway on Saturday night?

Are you excited for Ted Leo and the 1900s at Do- Division on Sunday?

Do you wanna dance like me in celebration for warmer weather and another weekend?!

Also, Frontier Airlines is a whole different animal.

Tuesday, May 27, 2008

Stevie Wonder is coming to Chicago



I just got news of this last week and it made me squeal like a little kid. Stevie Wonder is playing a free concert in Grant Park on June 28th. I'll be fulfilling a life long dream by seeing him... oh, my cherie amour....



Saturday, June 28, 2008
City of Chicago and U.S. Cellular present
5:30 p.m.
STEVIE WONDER

Thursday, May 22, 2008

B.Y.O.B.--Bring Your Own Blowdrier at Salon O Sixty-Five





Always wanted to learn a top stylist's secrets when it comes to the perfect blowout or style? With your own styling tools and the knowledge of the Salon O Sixty- Five staff, you will learn how to achieve the "I just left the salon" look on your own. Enjoy complimentary appetizers and wine while you practice hands-on. Space is limited, so RSVP at (312) 943-4555 to reserve a spot with a stylist.

When: Wednesday, June 4 from 6:30 to 9:30 p.m.

Where: Salon O Sixty-five; 65 East Oak Street Chicago, IL 60611

Wednesday, May 21, 2008

Early Warning : Do-Division Street Festival




So just wanted to fill you all in (just in case you already didn't know already) that the awesome Do-Division street festival is happening next weekend, so keep your calendars clear! I can't wait to see Ted Leo on Sunday!

Oh yeah, and I guess they have VIP tickets going for $100... I'll gladly take gen admission at $5 a day though.






BANDS

Saturday, May 31
Lucero
Mucca Pazza
Tally Hall
Occidental Brothers Dance Band International
Tight Phantomz
The Muldoons

Sunday, June 1
Ted Leo and the Pharmacists
Gil Mantera's Party Dream
The 1900s
Frightened Rabbit
Bear Hands
Tully Monster

Bubble Beat DJs
in the Wicker Wash car wash & detail center
2123 W. Division St.
programmed by LAVA, Funkshion Clothing & Image Chicago

Saturday, 5/31
The Sound Republic
Imphinity
Dj Pickel
Nathan Scott
Zebo
Jordan V

Sunday, 6/1
Victor R
The Beat Giants
J Funk
Shala
RockCity
MTM

Tuesday, May 20, 2008

Rock on, STP.




STP will be in Chicago on Thursday at the Charter One Pavillion. I am so excited for this show. Chicago will be the third stop on their 65 city tour.

After the complete their tour, STP will be heading into the studio to record a new album. That's when it really gets serious. Let's not forget, they've already sold over 20 million records worldwide, and that's even including "Shangri-La Dee Da."

WGN is doing a Sex and The City Contest




Read the Rules below and hope you win!



GN-TV MORNING NEWS MOVIE CLUB "Sex and the City" SCREENING Official Rules

Material Terms:
No purchase necessary.
Enter by going to wgntv.com/contests and choosing the movie club icon. From there, viewers can send an e-mail to SexandtheCity.WGN (AT) gmail (DOT) com through the wgntv.com site starting Monday, May 19, 2008 through Wednesday, May 21, 2008.


After WGN Morning News on May 21, the first fifty (50) entries drawn in a random drawing of all entries will be deemed the winner(s)


Contest is open to legal residents of IL and NW Indiana, 17 years or older at the time of entry.
At the end of the contest entry period, fifty winners will receive tickets for two (2) to a screening of "Sex and the City."
Complete rules available at wgntv.com


1. TO ENTER: For your chance to win 2 tickets to an advance screening of "Sex and the City," email your name, age, address, home phone number and email address to SexandtheCity.WGN (AT) gmail (DOT) com through wgntv.com/contests. All entries become the property of WGN-TV, and none will be returned. WGN-TV is not responsible for entries that are lost, incomplete, late, or misdirected for Internet problems or other difficulties in email transmission or reception.

2. ENTRY DEADLINE: The contest begins on Monday, May 19, 2008 and ends on Wednesday, May 21, 2008. All entries must be received by noon CT on May 21, 2008.

3. WINNER SELECTION AND NOTIFICATION: After WGN Morning News on May 21, the first fifty (50) entries drawn in a random drawing of all entries will be deemed the winner(s), which is subject to eligibility verification. Odds of winning depend on the number of entries received. Winners will receive tickets to the screening via US mail. Entrants agree that WGN-TV has the sole right to determine the winners of the contest and all matters or disputes arising from the contest and that its determination is final and binding.

4. THE PRIZE: The fifty (50) winners will receive a movie pass for two (2) to the screening of "Sex and the City" on Tuesday, May 27th, 7:30 p.m. at AMC River East, 322 E. Illinois St., Chicago, IL 60611. No substitute prize will be awarded. Approximate retail value: $20. WGN-TV is not responsible for seating; seating is not guaranteed, so winners must arrive early. WGN-TV will not be responsible (and will not issue refunds or replacement tickets) if the tickets are lost or stolen or if the movie is postponed, canceled or cut short for any reason beyond WGN-TV's control.

5. ELIGIBLITY AND RESTRICTIONS: a. This contest is void where prohibited or restricted by law. Employees of WGN-TV, Warner Bros., AMC, and their parent companies, subsidiaries, affiliates and advertising agencies, and their immediate families, are not eligible to participate. b. Entrants must be 17 years of age or older, a resident of Illinois or Northwest Indiana in order to participate.

6. CONDITIONS OF ENTRY: a. Use of winner's name: By entering, each entrant grants permission, without further compensation, to Contest Sponsors and their agents and licensees, to use the entrant's name, voice, photograph, likeness and biographical material for broadcast and promotional purposes in connection with the contest. b. Release Station and Sponsor of Liability: By entering, entrants agree to release Contest Sponsors from any claim, loss, liability, damage or injury of any kind arising from their participation in the contest or their receipt or use of the contest prize. c. No Prize Substitutions: No substitute prizes, cash redemptions or transfer of prizes are available, except at Contest Sponsors' sole discretion.

7. INTERNET/FORCE MAJEURE: If for any reason, this contest is not capable of running as planned, including infection by computer virus, tampering, fraud, technical failure, or any other cause which corrupts or threatens the administration, security or integrity of the contest, WGN-TV reserves the right, in its sole discretion, to terminate or suspend the Contest or any portion of the Contest. ANY ATTEMPT TO DAMAGE OR UNDERMINE THE FAIR AND LEGITIMATE OPERATION OF THIS CONTEST WILL RESULT IN DISQUALIFICATION FROM THE CONTEST. Information submitted in Internet entries, including entrant's name, address, e-mail address, etc, shall become the property of WGN-TV, and may be used by WGN-TV for marketing or promotional purposes. Contest shall be governed and enforced pursuant to Illinois law, excluding choice of law provisions.

8.COPY OF RULES is available online at wgntv.com and can also be obtained by writing to WGN-TV "Sex and the City" Screening Sweepstakes, 2501 W. Bradley Place, Chicago, IL, 60618.

9. WINNERS LIST: for a complete list of winners, send a self-addressed stamped envelope to: WGN-TV "Sex and the City" Screening Sweepstakes Winners list, WGN-TV 2501 W. Bradley Place, Chicago, IL, 60618 after May 27, 2008 and before June 24, 2008.

Monday, May 19, 2008

New Bars and Patios - Chicago 2008

I've compiled a list of new bar patios and restaurants with a little help from metromix chicago. :-)

All these new places.. now where is the summer weather?


Angels & Mariachis
1721 W. Division St., Chicago
773-227-7772
Look for a Latin-themed patio featuring a full menu and seating for 40 when this spot opens April 28.

The Boundary
1932 W. Division St., Chicago
773-278-1919
The wide, full-service sidewalk patio seats 56. There are even designated curbside tables for smokers.

Harry Caray's Tavern
3551 N. Sheffield Ave., Chicago
773-327-7800
This new Wrigleyville bar’s glass facade opens to a non-smoking sidewalk cafe with tables and seating for 30.

The Fifty/50
2047 W. Division St. , Chicago
773-489-5050
This spacious 70-seat sidewalk patio will cater to crowds with a plasma TV, a full menu of barbecue-inspired eats and beer cocktails.

The Orbit Room
2959 N. California Ave., Chicago
773-588-8540
Music piped outside sets the tone for nights on the 2,000-square-foot wood deck. The beer garden, open weather permitting, accommodates about 150.

Juicy Wine Company
694 N. Milwaukee Ave., Chicago
312-492-6620
Owner Rodney Alex is set to fully launch his 35-seat “urban wine garden” by early May. Located behind Juicy, the patio also features daily grilled specials.

Vines on Clark
3554 N. Clark St., Chicago
773-327-8572
This Italian-American resto-bar turned half of its south parking lot into this spacious outdoor area for more than 150. Top that off with a roofdeck for 50 and a patio for 35 and you’ve got your alfresco options covered.

Gossip Girl Finale is tonight



I can't wait!!!!






Here is the Season Finale promo poster for the May 19 episode of Gossip Girl.

Season 2 of Gossip Girl is confirmed to return in the fall. E! News reports that the show will have a 24-episode season, making it longer than norm 12-16 episodes.

Also, Michelle Trachtenberg’s role as Georgina Sparks will become a regular one when GG returns.

Friday, May 16, 2008

The Future Skyline of Chicago

I think it just looks weird with that giant corkscrew.    What do you think?

Free Ice Cream at Bobtail Saturday

Yes, an old favorite in my former neighborhood!


What: Single scoops are gratis (try Signature Sunset, a merlot flavor with chocolate chips); donations support Nettelhorst School and Central School.
Why: Something cold, something new.
When: Sat. Central, noon-3 p.m.; Broadway, 2-4 p.m.
Where: Bobtail Ice Cream Company, 1114 Central Ave., b/t 11th St. & Wilmette Ave., Wilmette (847-251-0174); 2951 N. Broadway St., at Wellington Ave. (773-880-7372).

Amanda's Must Haves For Summer

Hello, its Friday. So I should be busy working right? Nope! Instead I'd rather tell you my top six must have items in your closet this summer and why for every Chicago girl!


Stylish Sundress you can never have enough of! Have a couple that work for beach, heals to dress them up. A couple for the stylish summer weddings your attending. And one for the summer day trips you plan to escape the city. Definitely go for classic, black and white and dress it up with some funky earrings, bangles and necklaces. Then go for some color. Summer is all about sparkle and bright colors. My personal favorites are bright green, blue, and purples. This seasons sundresses run the gamut from girly girl to fabulously flirty so you will have lots to choose from!

Strappy Sandals. Are The perfect accompaniment to any sundress or skirt. You can even wear sandals to the office these days (if you are lucky enough to work in a more stylishly progressive environment like me :-)), just keep them within the realms of proper business attire. Nothing too overtly sexy. Sandals with substantial heels and wider straps are ideal, as is a sleek platform. For weekend wear, a pair of sexy t-straps or a sassy little espadrille is perfection, and this pair of carved heel wedges is sublime! And for party time I'm all about skyscrapers!

Sassy, Sexy Flirty Tops. Once again, so many gorgeous styles, so little time! I recommend the stylish numbers like the modified halter top or racerback style blouse. Sexy sleeveless tops and shimmery tanks look fabulous too. Sheers are also very hot this summer—featherlight fabrics which float and skim your shape. And don't miss out on the gorgeous one shoulder styles.

Essential Crops. And you thought crops were just for weekend wear! Try a great pair of sleek crops or perhaps a pair of pinstriped gabardine for work, or a dressier pair for an evening out. They are also perfect for casual Friday. A pair of relaxed, rolled-at-the-cuff crops makes a great beach look, especially when slipped on over a bikini. But my all time fave for summer is a pair of crisp, white denims.

Go Anywhere Handbag. Roomy enough for all your girly essentials, but not so big as to be mistaken for airline carry-on. From an unstructured artisan bag for casual excursions to a sleek and chic patent leather when you need to bump up the volume.

Flirty Flats. Let's face it girls, as much as I adore and love a great pair of heels, there are times when I feel like a fabulous pair of flats is definitely the way to go. I just love a pair of sassy sneaks paired with capri's or cropped jeans. And an adorable pair of t-straps looks fab with a flirty little cotton skirt.

Thursday, May 15, 2008

Free Iced Coffee at DD





It's free iced coffee day at Dunkin Donuts. French vanilla is available and you can also get toasted almond, raspberry, hazelnut, coconut, chocolate, cinnamon, caramel, and blueberry. They're hyping "berry berry," which is made with the flavors of berries both rasp and blue.

I haven't decided yet if I'm going to get one yet because it's not the nicest day in Chicago..but maybe....

Wednesday, May 14, 2008

Green City Market Opens today




So, happy that its finally open. A true sign that sprin is here. The green city market offers locally farmed prodce, baked goods, dairy meats, flowers and more.

Tuesday, May 13, 2008

Lakeview East Fashion Show




I had to promote this event, just because its steps from my old apt and hood. Oh, the memories of my studio in Lakeview last year! And its at my favorite Sura Thai Bistro. I would be going, but a girl can't be in two places at once!

Splendor of the Palace Fashion Show

AKIRA, HENNESSY AND STEVE MADDEN PRESENT:

SPLENDOUR OF THE PALACE

AKIRA SPRING / SUMMER 2008 FASHION SHOW

Where: Alhambra Palace 1240 W. Randolph Street ( www.alhambrapalacerestaurant.com )

When : Sunday, May 18th, Doors 5:30 Runway 7:00 PM

Travel to an exotic destination that flourishes with fashion with your hosts AKIRA, Hennessy and Steve Madden. Immerse yourself in another world as Alhambra Palace will transport you to a place of mystery, and intrigue. A storm of dazzling, sultry FORD models present: ‘Splendour of the Palace’ on a Copper clad runway featuring the hottest Spring/Summer footwear from Steve Madden.

Alhambra Palace inspired by a 13th Century fortress in Spain, features 24,000 square feet of exquisite architecture from Egypt, Lebanon and Morocco. Mingle under the sweeping archways and marble accents. Surrounded by mosaic tiles, crystal chandeliers and hand carved sculptures , this setting is befitting of royalty.

Patrons can sip Hennessy cocktails at a cash bar exclusively serving Hennessy, Moet White Star Champagne and a selection of wines.

Dine in Alhambra’s lavish restaurant featuring French Moroccan tangine and the bold flavors of Mediterranean cuisine. To round out the indulgent evening, guests will savor the sights and sounds of live musical entertainment and Alhambra’s captivating belly dancers.

Shop with AKIRA in the Marrakesh Room, showcasing the latest trends from AKIRA Men’s and Women’s stores. Sip Hennessy cocktails as you await the presentation of Splendour of the Palace.

VIP Gift Bags by Steve Madden & AKIRA

RSVP is required for entrance. VIP Seating is limited.

Please RSVP to: Alla@akirachicago.com or contact Lisa @ 312-238-9314

Monday, May 12, 2008

Stop the Promoter's Ordinance!!!!

Please go to SaveChicagoCulture.org and sign the petition!

Imagine a Chicago with no Metro or Double Door or Schuba’s. Imagine a Chicago with no Royal George or Bailiwick or Athenaeum. Imagine a Chicago where local music is only heard in the suburbs and theater is limited to Wicked and Jersey Boys.
Scary thoughts. But if the City of Chicago’s City Council doesn’t hear your voice by Wednesday, May 14, they’ll become reality.
On that date the council will vote to approve an ordinance that has the power to stifle creativity in Chicago’s musical, theatrical, and general cultural scenes. With no public discourse or commentary, this proposal has been approved by the City Council Committee and is on the fast track to be pushed into law. It is up to us to let our elected officials know that Chicago’s creative scene is too rich, too varied, and too vital to be regulated in such a blanket fashion.
The details:
The “Event Promoters” ordinance requires any event promoter to have a license from the city of Chicago and liability insurance of $300,000, but that’s just the start:
The definition of “event promoter” is so loosely defined it could apply to a band that books its own shows or a theater company that’s in town for a one-week run.
“Event Promoter” must be licensed and will pay $500 - $2000 depending on expected audience size.
To get the license, applicant must be over 21, get fingerprinted, submit to a background check, and jump over several other hurdles.
This ordinance seems targeted towards smaller venues, since those with 500+ permanent seats are exempt.
Police must be notified at least 7 days in advance of event.
For the complete ordinance, check out Jim DeRogatis’ blog on the Chicago Sun-Times.
We are collecting signatures to present to the council voicing our opposition to this ordinance. YOUR VOICE IS NECESSARY TO ENSURE CHICAGO’S CULTURAL SCENE CONTINUES TO THRIVE. Please leave a comment as your expression of disapproval. These will be presented to the City Council and to all Chicago Aldermen prior to Wednesday’s vote.
Thank you for helping to protect Chicago’s Culture.

Food Arts Barbecue For Share Our Strength



Hi Everyone,
Let me know if you can help out. This is going to be a great event and we can use some more people to help check in.
Email me at - amandamgilmore@gmail.com for more info! I will be helping out :-)

Thanks!




VOLUNTEERS NEEDED for 10th Annual Share Our Strength and Food Arts BBQ - Sunday, May 18th in Chicago.
The 10th Annual Championship Share Our Strength and Food Arts BBQ & Cookout will take place on May 18th 2008, during the National Restaurant Show in Chicago. The nation’s leading chefs will square off in a people’s choice BBQ competition – all to the beat of live music! Proceeds go directly to Share Our Strength, a national nonprofit working to ensure that no kid in America grows up hungry.
The event is held at Galleria Marchetti each year during the National Restaurant Association show and we hope to raise $110,000 this year. It promises to be a fun afternoon for all. It's a great opportunity for any food lover to go to an industry-only event (tickets are for hotel and restaurant personnel only)and sample food from some incredible chef talent, including:
Randy Zweiban, Nacional 27
David Burke, DavidBurke & Donatella
Rick Tramanto
Marc Valiani, Yahooz Wood Fire Grill
Carol Wallack
Aleksiy Shalev, Sola Restaurant
Martial Noguier, onesixtyblue
David Digregorio, Osteria Via Stato
Takashi Yagihashi
Paul Bartolotta, BARTOLOTTA Ristorante di Mare, Wynn Las Vegas
Christophe David, NoMI
Jose Garces Amada, Tinto, and Mercat
We are hoping to secure volunteers throughout the day to assist with attendee check-in.
* Volunteers for the event time would help from 3:30 PM - 7 PM.
Additional details:
* The event takes place at Galleria Marchetti, 825 West Erie St., Chicago, IL 60622.
* Dress code is business casual. Shirts will be provided for check-in volunteers.
* Street parking is available but public transportation is encouraged.
* Volunteers must be older than 21 years.
* A volunteer schedule will be created to ensure that each volunteer has time to enjoy the event.

Memory Lane in Chicago


It's near Foster and Canfield.  How funny.  Photo from Chicagoist.

CS Party on Wednesday


Come do a happy hour with me!




Requesting the pleasure of your company

CREATING IS LIVING
Celebrating Tony Jones

President, School of the Art Institute of Chicago


Wednesday, May 21
6.00 – 8.00pm

Bang & Olufsen
609 North State Street

RSVP by May 20 | 312.274.2508
or by email: rsvpchicago@modernluxury.com

Innovation. Persistence. Ambition.

"Bang & Olufsen State Street is bringing state of the art technology and design to the heart of Chicago with the new BeoVision 8. This 32" LCD panel offers crystal-clear picture and an integrated center speaker that delivers powerful sound. If you sounded this good, you'd stick your chest out too."
www.bang-olufsen.c

Thursday, May 8, 2008

Bully in the Hallway Tonight


Come have some fun tonight!!!

Friday, May 2, 2008

Ellen Degeneres Sighting

As I was just walking back from lunch I spotted Ellen on the patio at Rosebud being interviewed from NBC 5 reporter Alison Rosati.  Ellen is in town to tape a show in Chicago tomorrow on Michigan Avenue.  Hopefully it won't be rained out, otherwise if it is, I suggest she hit up Beerfest at Navy Pier.


Under the weather

I've been sick all week with a cold/sore throat.  Its the Chicago weather!! I'm sick of it.  One day we have a beautiful and gorgeous day and the next its winter again.  Rain is forecasted for the weekend.... I'm ready for some warmer weather to stay!

I'm hoping to get a couple posts up today.  I've just been really sick this week!!

- Amanda