eJourna

In search of Missouri’s ‘Best’ — From Cheeseburgers to Scenic Drives

Tonia — Sat, 13 Mar 2010 15:00:46 +0000

What constitutes “the best?” Well, like a lot of things, it depends on whom you ask. So, the Missouri Division of Tourism recently conducted an informal Facebook poll where they asked their fans to tell them where to find things like “the best” of everything, from best cheeseburgers to best scenic drives.

As expected, there were a variety of answers, which shows the diversity of Missouri’s offerings. So if one of the following spots is something you’d like to check out, hop in the car and take a drive. Missouri is beautiful, no matter what time of year it is, and you just might find “the best” Missouri has to offer.

Blueberry Hill, St. Louis, Missouri

The Missouri Division of Tourism’s Facebook fans seemed to have a variety of opinions about which of the Show-Me State’s eateries offers the best cheeseburger, but Blueberry Hill, in the Delmar Loop in St. Louis earned a couple of mentions. Famous Dave’s, which has locations in Branson, Kansas City and St. Joseph, also earned a nomination for having the best burger, as did the Tater Patch in Rolla.

Looking around Missouri, you may also be interested in the burgers at Paddy Malone’s Irish Pub, in Jefferson City and Billy Gail’s Café, on Route 265 in Branson. (While Billy Gail’s is said to serve up a mean burger, the restaurant was, in 2009, honored by a regional magazine for having the best breakfast in the entire 417 area code. The pancakes there are literally fall-off-the-plate huge.)

Missouri is also famous for its breweries, from Anheuser-Busch InBev, in St. Louis, to Schlafly Beer, in Maplewood, to Boulevard Brewing Company, in Kansas City. Our Facebook fans also suggested Springfield Brewing Company, in Springfield and Prison Brews, in Jefferson City. If you’re traveling in southeast Missouri, don’t forget about Crown Valley Brewing and Distilling Company, outside of Ste. Genevieve.

If wine is more to your liking, Missouri has plenty of brands you might consider “the best” and there’s no shortage of opportunities to taste the state’s wine, thanks to its five wine trails: the Missouri River Wine Trail, the Hermann Wine Trail, the Route Du Vin, the Ozark Mountain Region Wine Trail, and the Missouri Weinstrasse. For a map of these trails, log onto www.MissouriWine.org, select the “Wine Trails” link and then open the map in the drop-down menu.

If you like the eating and drinking establishments Missouri Facebook fans have directed you so far, you might also check out Shakespeare’s Pizza, in The District (and near the University of Missouri Campus) in downtown Columbia, or The Pear Tree, a fine-dining restaurant in Bevier. Fan favorites include the steaks and prime rib dinners.

Looking for a relaxing getaway, Facebook fans suggested Lake Springfield Park, and Mark Twain State Park, Stoutsville, which offers scenic views of Mark Twain Lake. And if you’re interested in a relaxing drive, one recommendation is to try Highway 14 from Ava to West Plains, particularly in the fall.

If you’re looking for “the best” in sweet treats around Missouri, you’ll likely hear plenty of debates about chocolates, cakes, cookies, pies and ice cream. In the interest of fairness, it’s probably best for you to figure out for yourself which is best (just don’t tell your dentist).

Central Dairy, in Jefferson City, where a variety of flavors can be heaped on to your cone, in your dish or complement that massive banana split.
Café 37, West Plains, which features a mammoth brownie trifle, a generous bread pudding, classic turtle cheesecake and chocolate layer cake.
The Blue Owl, Kimmswick, home of fresh-baked pies, cakes, cheesecakes, pastries and candies.
Main Street Bakery and Café, Cuba, which is famous for its peanut coffee cake and filled doughnuts.
Charmed Cakes and Fine Desserts, in St. Robert, where the focus is on a variety of cake truffles, with flavors ranging from chocolate and coconut to red velvet and chocolate cherry chip.
Oooey Gooey Chocolates, Excelsior Springs, where you’ll find a variety of cakes, cookies, signature creations and things described simply as “gooey items.”
Joe’s Bakery and Deli, Washington, where the carrot cake is tempting and you’ll feel like eating at least two pieces of gooey butter cake. (While you’re in Washington, check out the homemade fudge and turtles at The Fudge Shoppe or the toppings on the pie at Cowan’s Café, home of the mile-high pie.)

But Missouri doesn’t just have some of “the best” food and drinks you’ll find anywhere. The state is home to a variety of unique, fun and educational attractions, as well as special events. So, whether you’re interested in the presidential history you’ll find at the Harry S. Truman Library and Museum, in Independence; a jaunt down Historic Route 66, which spans from St. Louis to Joplin; or you simply want to listen to a great yarn at an event like the Cape Girardeau Storytelling Festival, you’re sure to find it in Missouri.

To find out more on a Missouri destination that’s close to home but far from ordinary, or to order a 2010 Missouri Travel Guide, log onto www.VisitMO.com or call 800–519-4800.

Photo by mockstar

Chicago Gets Top Billing as Popular Destination for Theater Lovers

Tonia — Fri, 12 Mar 2010 16:45:27 +0000

Chicago Theatre, Chicago, Illinois

From storefront theaters in the neighborhoods and Tony-award winning regional companies to major Broadway shows, Chicago is known throughout the world for its extensive selection of critically-acclaimed theater. On any given day, visitors can venture out into Chicago’s diverse communities for a production at one of the city’s many off-Loop theater companies or see a musical in the bustling historic downtown theater district.

With more than 250 theater companies, 115 performance venues with 5 million tickets sold annually, and 800 productions a year, Chicago’s reputation for quality, innovation and a broad range of theatrical offerings make it a premier destination for theater lovers of all ages and tastes. In recognition of its prominent position in the theater community, Chicago was selected as the first stop on the national tour of Billy Elliot the Musical, beginning March 18 at the Ford Center/Oriental Theatre.

For more information about Chicago theater in neighborhoods throughout the city, visit www.explorechicago.org.

Award-Winning Theater

Four Chicago theaters have received the prestigious Regional Tony Award, more than any other city in the nation:

Chicago Shakespeare Theater – The plays of Shakespeare form the core of this company’s productions and are complemented by other dramatic works, from traditional classical theater to new classics.
The Goodman Theatre – Chicago’s oldest and largest not-for-profit theater produces both classic and contemporary works, giving voice to a wide range of artists and visions.
Steppenwolf Theatre Company – Created by a collective of actors including John Malkovich and Gary Sinise, Steppenwolf is committed to the principle of ensemble performance through the collaboration of a company of actors, directors and playwrights.
Victory Gardens Theater –This mid-sized professional theater company, one of the country’s most respected, is dedicated solely to producing new plays.

Among numerous other accolades, two Pulitzer Prizes have been awarded to plays generated in Chicago – Tracy Letts’ August: Osage County (Steppenwolf Theatre) and Lynne Nottage’s Ruined (The Goodman Theatre).

A record number of New York productions have had a strong Chicago influence. Plays that premiered in Chicago by Chicago playwrights and went on to enjoy successful Broadway runs include, among many others, A Steady Rain by Keith Huff and Superior Donuts by Tracy Letts.

Theater in the Neighborhoods

A thriving resident theater community is at the heart of Chicago theater. Located throughout the city’s many eclectic neighborhoods, some companies have their own venues while others perform in nontraditional spaces. Many are ensemble-based. They offer a wide variety of theatrical experiences from new plays and original musicals to adaptations and revivals.

Professional theater companies that produce their own seasons include:

A Red Orchid Theatre (Old Town) – Presents new plays from all over the world and revives insightful works from the past.
Black Ensemble Theater (Uptown) – Stages original musicals that highlight the history of African Americans while reaching out to a cross-cultural audience.
Court Theatre (Hyde Park) – Professional theater on the campus of the University of Chicago that focuses on classic theatrical works.
Redmoon Theater (West Loop) – Creates theatrical spectacles that transform streets, stages, and architectural landmarks into places of public celebration.
TimeLine Theatre Company (Lakeview) – Dedicated to presenting stories inspired by history that connect with today’s social and political issues.

Itinerant theater companies that perform in various spaces throughout the city include:

BackStage Theatre Company – Ensemble of theater artists dedicated to the exploration of family.
Congo Square Theater Company – Multicultural theater spawned from the African Diaspora as well as other world cultures.
Infamous Commonwealth Theatre – Productions illuminate diverse perspectives around one topic each season.
Shattered Globe Theatre – Presents classic drama as well as U.S. and world premieres inspired by the story of “everyman.”
Teatro Vista – Committed to sharing and celebrating the riches of Latino culture by presenting the work of cutting-edge Latino playwrights.
TUTA Theatre Chicago – Ensemble that promotes the work of European playwrights, employing radical stagings of both modern and classical texts.

The Second City & Comedy in Chicago

Chicago’s tradition of improv-based sketch comedy is legendary due in large part to The Second City, which celebrated its 50th anniversary last year. A Chicago landmark and a national treasure, it offers the best in Chicago comedy showcasing the city’s brightest talent every night of the week. The Second City has launched the careers of such comic greats as John Belushi, Mike Myers, Bill Murray, Gilda Radner and many others. Other comedy clubs, venues and companies include:

I.O. (Improv Olympics)
Chemically Imbalanced Comedy
Neo-Futurists, Annoyance Theatre
Lakeshore Theater
ComedySportz

Chicago Theater District and Downtown Theaters

Brightly lit marquees in the Loop along Dearborn and Randolph Streets mark an area spanning four city blocks where magnificently restored theaters comprise the city’s famed downtown Theater District. See the best of Broadway hit productions at a variety of commercial theaters:

Ford Center for the Performing Arts/Oriental Theatre
Cadillac Palace Theater
Bank of America Theatre (formerly the Shubert Theatre)
Auditorium Theatre of Roosevelt University
Drury Lane Theatre Water Tower Place

Chicago theater goers frequently have the chance to see pre-Broadway engagements at these venues. Productions that have debuted in Chicago before heading to Broadway include Spamalot, Mamma Mia!, The Producers, and most recently, The Addams Family.

Broadway in Chicago offers Historic Theatre Tours that go behind the scenes, providing details about the theaters’ restoration and the cutting edge technologies required for complex theatrical productions. Check out www.broadwayinchicago.com to find out about tours and current and upcoming shows.

Productions featuring top-caliber talent can also be found at:

The Chicago Theatre
Harris Theater for Music and Dance
Merle Reskin Theatre
Lookinglass Theatre Company

Chicago Department of Cultural Affairs Downtown Theaters

The Chicago Department of Cultural Affairs Theaters — the Storefront Theater and the Studio Theater in the Chicago Cultural Center — offer downtown audiences an off-Loop theater experience with an exciting look at the vibrant emerging theater companies that call Chicago home.

An anchor of the downtown theater district, the Storefront Theater presents productions by Chicago theater companies such as:

Caffeine Theatre
Silent Theatre Company
The Hypocrites

The Studio Theater Incubator Series supports the creation of new work by emerging Chicago theater companies including:

Dog and Pony Theatre Company
LiveWire Chicago Theatre

Children’s Theater

Families can enjoy a lively theater scene in Chicago. Check out:

Adventure Stage Chicago
Chicago Kids Company
Emerald City Theatre
Blair Thomas & Co.
Chicago Children’s Theatre

Half-Priced and Discounted Tickets

Start your discovery of Chicago theater with a visit to Hot Tix (Chicago Tourism Center, 72 E. Randolph St. and Chicago Waterworks Visitor Center, 163 E. Pearson, or online at www.hottix.org for a large selection of half-priced tickets ranging from Broadway shows to productions in neighborhoods throughout the city. In addition, the League of Chicago Theatres
provides information about discounted tickets (www.chicagoplays.com).

Visitor Services

The Chicago Office of Tourism (@explorechicago) provides a seven-day-a-week Twitter Concierge Service offering advice and suggestions about the city. Visitor service representatives answer questions and provide information with a focus on free and discounted events and activities in neighborhoods throughout Chicago.

Visitors and Chicagoans planning to entertain out-of-town guests can receive Chicago brochures, reserve hotel accommodations and receive trip-planning assistance by calling toll-free 1.877.CHICAGO (1.877.244.2246), or visiting www.explorechicago.org. Brochures and information on Chicago’s events and activities are also available at the Visitor Information Centers. The centers are located at Chicago Water Works, 163 East Pearson Street at Michigan Avenue and the Chicago Cultural Center, 77 East Randolph Street. The TTY toll-free number for the hearing impaired is 1.866.710.0294.

Photo by eJourna

American Airlines Expands Mobile Boarding Passes to 19 Additional Airports

Ron — Fri, 12 Mar 2010 15:00:46 +0000

No Need for Paper Boarding Pass Now at 27 Airports — Simply Show Barcode on Mobile Phone or PDA

American Airlines customers departing from select airports can choose to receive their boarding passes electronically on their mobile phones or PDAs, saving time and bypassing the need to print and present a paper boarding pass at the airport.

Passengers departing on domestic flights from 19 additional airports now have the option to use mobile boarding passes. New airports added are:

Albuquerque International (ABQ)
Charlotte Douglas International (CLT)
Cleveland Hopkins International (CLE)
Denver International (DEN)
El Paso International (ELP)
Houston George Bush Intercontinental (IAH)
Jacksonville International (JAX)
Little Rock Adams Field (LIT)
Memphis International (MEM)
New York La Guardia (LGA)
Oklahoma Will Rogers World (OKC)
Orlando International (MCO)
Phoenix Sky Harbor (PHX)
Salt Lake City International (SLC)
San Antonio International (SAT)
San Diego International (SAN)
San Francisco International (SFO)
Tulsa International (TUL)
Washington Dulles International (IAD)

Mobile boarding passes, which use a two-dimensional (2-D) barcode, were introduced by American in late 2008, and were previously available for passengers departing on domestic flights from Austin-Bergstrom International (AUS), Chicago’s O’Hare International (ORD), Dallas-Fort Worth International (DFW), Los Angeles International (LAX), John Wayne Orange County (SNA), Las Vegas McCarran International (LAS), Jackson Atlanta International (ATL) and Minneapolis–St. Paul International (MSP) airports. American’s mobile boarding pass program is in partnership with the United States Transportation Security Administration (TSA). The program will be extended to additional U.S. airports in the coming months.

“We are pleased to offer this great feature at additional airports, making travel as easy and convenient as possible for our customers,” said Andrew Watson, American’s Vice President – Customer Technology. “Customers who choose this option can bypass printing a boarding pass at their home, office or even at the airport. At the airport they can go straight to the security checkpoint and then to the aircraft. This is a great alternative for our customers on the go.”

To use the mobile boarding pass option – either with the traditional desktop version of AA.com or the mobile version – customers must have an active e-mail address where their boarding pass may be sent and an Internet-enabled mobile device where the 2-D barcode can be received. At this time, customers may list only one person in their reservation. Domestic destinations include those within the United States, as well as the U.S. Virgin Islands and Puerto Rico.

The mobile boarding pass process is simple. When customers check in for their flight using American’s Web site, AA.com – either the desktop or mobile versions – they have the option to receive their boarding passes on their cell phones or PDAs. With this option, they will receive an e-mail with an Internet link to the boarding pass. The mobile boarding pass contains a 2-D barcode that can be scanned at TSA security checkpoints and at American Airlines gates. At the airport, customers simply scan their cell phone or PDA screen when going through security (proper identification must be presented) and when boarding, just as they would with a traditional paper boarding pass.

Customers who wish to check bags can also use the option by scanning the boarding pass on their cell phone or PDA screen at American Airlines self-service machines or ticket counter check-in facilities.

Customers who check in online and wish to print a paper boarding pass are still able to do so. At the end of the online check-in process on AA.com, customers may select “Print” (customers can print the pass at that time, or use a self-service check-in machine to print at the airport), “E-mail for Print” (boarding pass is emailed and customers can print at their convenience), or “E-mail for use on Cell Phone or Other Device” (customers receive an electronic boarding pass via e-mail on their cell phone or mobile device, which can then be presented at the airport).

For more information on mobile boarding passes on American Airlines, including instructions on how to use the new system, visit www.aa.com/mobileboarding.

Sock Monkey Madness visits Rockford, Illinois

Tonia — Fri, 05 Mar 2010 15:00:07 +0000

The 6th Annual Sock Monkey Madness Festival is happening this weekend, March 6th and 7th, in Rockford, Illinois. So grab your sock monkey, load up your Kia, and head out!

The Sock Monkey Madness Festival was awarded a national 2009 Leadership in History Award of Merit from the American Association for State and Local History for excellence in educational programming. So you can enjoy some pop culture, and and count it as an educational experience in one trip.

There will be Sock Monkey merchandise, of course, as well as history of the sock monkey starting back to the Great Depression. Films will be playing from the annual Sock Monkey International Film Festival. You can join a workshop to make your own sock monkey. Your ill sock monkey can visit the Sockford General Hospital for a checkup or general surgery. Or simply find some new accessories or clothing for your well loved sock monkey. If you dream in sock monkey, this is the place to be.
Admission is $8 adults; $4 children and students (3 to 17)

Midway Village Museum members and sock monkeys are free.

For more information, visit the Midway Village Museum site.

“March” Into Ohio With These Great Spring Activities

Tonia — Fri, 05 Mar 2010 03:21:22 +0000

Warm up to spring-time events that offer a refreshing outlook on Ohio history, culture and outdoors

March is an especially exciting time in Ohio, as the birth of spring offers a number of ways visitors can enjoy the season in full bloom. Gather the family together and celebrate the luck o’ the Irish in Dublin — Ohio, that is. Explore the surreal interaction between humans and animals through Francisco Toledo’s artwork in the Glass City or flock to Hinckley for the return of one of Ohio’s most famous natural phenomena. Or, if you’re looking to be inspired by true girl power, commemorate Women’s History Month in the heart of the state’s capital.

Following is just a sampling of March events that make Ohio Too Much Fun for Just One Day! For more fun, spring-inspired travel ideas close to home, visit DiscoverOhio.com, follow @DiscoverOhio on Twitter or become a fan of the Ohio Tourism Division on Facebook at www.facebook.com/discoverohio.

Family Fun

Too Small to See, Boonshoft Museum of Discovery, Dayton, now through May 2 (SW)

Did you know that a nanometer is one-billionth of a meter? The “Too Small to See” exhibit offers visitors an eye-popping experience as they watch objects smaller than 100 nanometers come into focus right before their eyes. Visitors can stretch a molecule, dissolve a crystal and transport an atom while learning more about the exciting science of nanotechnology.

St. Patrick’s Day Celebration, throughout Dublin, March 13 ©

You don’t need to leave Ohio to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day in true Irish style! Dublin’s St. Patrick’s Day Celebration offers a green-inspired weekend filled with a mile-long community parade complete with Irish bands, leprechauns, floats and more. Afterward, check out Dublin’s historic district and shop for Irish imports or visit the local eateries for delicious Irish tea, tasty scones or savory Irish potato chowder.

Dresden Pajama Party, throughout Dresden, March 28 (SE)

For the ultimate in comfort shopping, check out Dresden’s annual Pajama Party. The event kicks off with a breakfast buffet at Popeye’s Soda Shop followed by a “Best Dressed” contest for the most fashion-forward pajama patron. From 9 a.m. until noon, pajama-clad shoppers enjoy deep discounts at local shops. Throughout the event, participating stores also hide alarm clocks and offer a door prize to the lucky person who finds the clock when its alarm goes off.

Arts and Culture

Mexico’s Toledo, Toledo Museum of Art, March 12 — May 9 (NW)

World-renowned artist Francisco Toledo has moved millions with his contemporary work that examines a surreal world of indigenous animals interacting with humans in dream-like scenarios. This prolific exhibit showcases Toledo’s aesthetics of nature and thorough knowledge of contemporary printmaking techniques such as etching, stenciling and graphic arts.

Celtic Lands Culture Fest, Cincinnati Museum Center, March 13 — 14 (SW)

This Celtic-infused event offers visitors a variety of folklore and art from Ireland. Watch as Celtic dancers wow the crowds with their fancy footwork, listen to Celtic folk tales told by skilled storytellers or enjoy the beats and sounds of Celtic music performed by local musicians. Check out a number of vendor booths with authentic wares and take home a little piece of Ireland!

19th Annual River City Blues Festival, Lafayette Hotel, Marietta, March 19 — 20 (SE)

Hear the sounds of authentic Mississippi and Louisiana blues right here in Ohio at this exciting celebration of blues music. Marietta’s historic Lafayette Hotel is home to the River Cities Blues Festival, known for drawing blues musicians throughout the world, including The Kinsey Report and Kenny “Blues Boss” Wayne.

Sports and Recreation

Greater Cleveland Auto Show, IX Center, Feb. 27 — March 7 (NE)

Rev your engine at the auto show that features more than 40 manufacturers exhibiting hundreds of domestic vehicles, imports, concept cars, converters, classic cars and more. Themed, “Driving you to a Better Tomorrow,” the event offers a number of new highlights, including the Ride-N-Drive Adventures, where participants can drive select cars, and a drawing to give away a 2010 Buick LaCrosse CXS.

Arnold Sports Festival, throughout downtown Columbus, March 4 — 7 ©

Flex your fitness skills and knowledge at the largest multi-sports festival in the country inspired by Arnold Schwarzenegger. See 17,000 athletes compete in more than 40 sports and events, including 13 Olympic sports. Other highlights include appearances by professional athletes, NFL stars, celebrity fitness trainers, and new for 2010, skateboarding, amateur strongman and amateur mixed martial arts events.

Buzzard Sunday, Hinckley Reservation, Hinckley Township, March 21 (NE)

Every year, in the morning hours of March 15, Ohio’s buzzards return home to Hinckley after their winter migration to the South. Come celebrate one of Ohio’s best-known natural phenomena nearly one week later at Buzzard Sunday, with festivities that include “early bird” hikes, a live buzzard display, live music from the Buzzard Boilers from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. and more.

History and Heritage

Women’s History Month, the Ohio Statehouse, Columbus, March 1 — 31 ©

Throughout March, the Ohio Statehouse commemorates the important women in Ohio’s history during Women’s History Month. The Ladies’ Gallery offers special tours for visitors to pay tribute to Ohio’s first six women legislators who paved the way for women in government. Also on view are historic items, clothing, photos, an interactive kiosk and artifacts from the suffrage movement in Ohio.

Celtic Tea, Wood County Historical Society and Museum, Bowling Green, March 11 (NW)

Every month, the Wood County Historical Society hosts a tea series to delight the senses with aromatic leaves from all over the world. Visit the Celtic Tea event in March to learn more about the Irish culture through sing-alongs and the impact it had on northwest Ohio’s history. Afterward, enjoy a self-guided tour of the museum, herb garden and Lyle Fletcher Arboretum.

5th Annual Free Family Day, International Women’s Air & Space Museum at Burke Lakefront Airport, Cleveland, March 13 (NE)

Celebrate Women’s History Month and a century of women in flight with a FREE Family Day at the International Women’s Air and Space Museum (IWASM). This annual event honors women in aviation and space history with a day of hands-on activities, including games, crafts, exhibits and more. Activities will be provided by NASA, IWASM Kids Club, the Children’s Museum of Cleveland and other area organizations. Activities include a demonstration by the Cleveland Hopkins International Airport Aircraft Rescue & Fire Fighters and a helicopter on the ramp at Burke Lakefront Airport (weather permitting).

For additional March events, visit www.DiscoverOhio.com. To order a free copy of the 2010 Ohio Travel Planner or the 2010 Spring/Summer Calendar of Events, click on the Free Publications icon at www.DiscoverOhio.com or call 1–800-BUCKEYE. The Ohio Travel Planner and Ohio Calendar of Events also are both viewable online. Trained travel counselors are available to assist 1–800-BUCKEYE callers weekdays from 8 a.m. to 9 p.m. and weekends from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Good Eats: The Depot American Diner, a Chicago Original

Tonia — Sat, 13 Feb 2010 15:00:54 +0000

Pot Roast Sandwich, Depot American Diner, Chicago

Want somewhere new to get something old? Try the Depot American Diner on the west side of Chicago. A friend suggested it to us on a recent day in the city, so we gave it a try. It was worth the trip, and the self induced food coma it brought on.

Our entire group of four ordered the Pot Roast Sandwich (pictured at right) based on all the advance raving we’d heard about it. We paired it with a round of egg cream sodas. As if that weren’t enough to send our blood pressure into the stratosphere, we topped it off with their signature dessert of hot donuts, coated in cinnamon sugar, with a side of thick mocha sauce for dipping.

Everything we ate and drank was absolutely delicious! This is diner food as it was meant to be: thick, hearty, generous portions of mouth watering goodness.

The Depot is not a “contemporary take” on or an “upscale” version of a diner. It is the original thing. This isn’t a fancy place, the seating is beyond limited, the menu consists of your traditional diner fare. In today’s world of upscale versions of dining, it is a rare gem to come across a true original.

The Depot American Diner
5840 W. Roosevelt Rd
Albany Park Neighborhood
773–261-8422

average main dinner price $8

Photo by ehfisher

Tennessee Tourism announces What’s New in 2010

Tonia — Fri, 12 Feb 2010 15:00:43 +0000

The year 2010 brings some important historical milestones along with some exciting new exhibits, attractions, hotels, restaurants and experiences in Tennessee.

Hermitage Hotel, Nashville, Tennessee

Three notable milestones for Tennessee are:

The 75th birthday celebration of Elvis Presley that took place on January 7–10 at Graceland in Memphis.
The opening of Titanic Pigeon Forge, a 30,000-square-foot, ship-shaped structure that rests on 5.69 acres. It will hold 20 galleries with hundreds of artifacts from the Titanic. The galleries are set to open April 2010.
The 100th birthday of the Hermitage Hotel in downtown Nashville. The hotel began celebrating in September 2009. The Hermitage is the only five-diamond hotel in Tennessee and boasts the famous Capitol Grille, one of Tennessee’s finest dining experiences.

Here is a taste of what’s new in 2010 for Tennessee.

East Tennessee

America’s legendary Delta Queen, the last fully operational, overnight passenger steamboat in the country, is now docked in Chattanooga and functioning as a boutique hotel.

A new first-class exhibition opened at the East Tennessee History Center in Knoxville entitled “Voices of the Land: The People of East Tennessee.” The exhibition tells the story of three centuries of life in the region, from the Cherokee to the 1982 World’s Fair. East Tennessee’s Historical Society had been preserving the region’s history for 175 years.

Middle Tennessee

Cheekwood Botanical Garden and Museum of Art will celebrate its 50th anniversary in 2010. To kick off the celebration, Cheekwood will offer a special 50 cent admission charge for the entire month of January. “Nashville Memoir: Photographs by Greg Miller” and “New Direction: Video Artists Explore Southern Identity” will be among various exhibits on display at Cheekwood throughout the year.

Cumberland Caverns will celebrate as 2010 marks 200 years since its discovery. The caverns are open year-round for guided walking tours. The site is also known for Bluegrass Underground, a radio show taped 333 feet below ground level in the Volcano Room.

West Tennessee

International Rockabilly Hall of Fame Festival in Jackson reaches a 10th anniversary milestone in 2010.

The Memphis Zoo, named the No.1 zoo in America by TripAdvisor, recently added Teton Trek, a four-acre exhibit featuring grizzlies, timber wolves, elk and trumpeter swans.

Photo by Seth Gaines

St. Louis Proudly Wears Pet Friendly Destination Collar

Tonia — Thu, 11 Feb 2010 15:00:02 +0000

New Website Receives Two Paws Up As St. Louis Proudly Wears Pet Friendly Destination Collar

With the launch of http://www.explorestlouis.com/pets/ and a growing reputation as a city that embraces pets, St. Louis continues to evolve as one of the most pet friendly travel destinations in the United States.

St. Louis welcomes travelers with pets

“We unleashed this special pet module on explorestlouis.com because so many people are traveling and vacationing with their pets,” said Kitty Ratcliffe, President of the St. Louis Convention & Visitors Commission (CVC). “It has never been easier to go to places in St. Louis with your pet, and the launch of this site will assist pet lovers in planning a trip or vacation to St. Louis area with their pets.”

Easy to navigate and organized in a series of chapters, http://www.explorestlouis.com/pets/ is filled with a variety of articles and pet-related topics from how to travel with pets to a complete calendar listing of all the fun and exciting pet-related activities in St. Louis. The site also features several valuable links to special pet-related websites including Beneful® WagWorldTM (wagworld.com), the Humane Society of Missouri (Hsmo.org), the Animal Protective Association (Apamo.org), Stray Rescue (Strayrescue.org), Nestle‘ Purina PetCare (Purina.com), and the St. Louis Petlover Coalition (Stlpetlover.org).

According to a recent CVC survey, 70 percent of St. Louisans view the community as a very pet-friendly area because of the many museums, wineries, dog parks, gardens, hotels, and outdoor restaurants that welcome pets. Consumers can also find numerous pet-related retail shops. The St. Louis region also has several pet-friendly events such as Purina Pooches at the Ballpark and the Barkus Pet Parade (Mardi Gras) and many venues and attractions including Forest Park, Purina Farms, 120 hiking trails and the American Kennel Club Museum of the Dog (www.museumofthedog.org/) in Queeny Park.

“It’s no wonder St. Louis welcomed The Dog Museum in 1987 as one of its jewels,” said Barbara McNab, Executive Director of AKC Museum of the Dog. “Dog lovers from all walks of life and dog walkers in the park are encouraged to bring Fido to visit the world’s only museum of its kind devoted to man’s best friend. The AKC Museum of the Dog maintains the country’s largest collection of dog art and dog-related artifacts.”

In addition, the St. Louis area has a long history as a pet-loving culture with the founding of the Humane Society of Missouri (1870) followed by the Animal Protective Association (1922). That legacy continues today with many St. Louis area non-profit organizations dedicated to protecting and supporting animal welfare.

Photo by -=RoBeE=-

Add “Spring” To Your Step In Chicago

Tonia — Wed, 10 Feb 2010 15:00:05 +0000

Highlights of Activities and Events Held in Chicago from March – May 2010

Reflections of Chicago, Cloud Gate

Put away the warm winter clothes and say hello to springtime in Chicago! Spring is the perfect time to explore all that Chicago has to offer. With an array of activities and events including art exhibits, sporting events and world-renowned theater, Chicago is in full bloom this season.

Visitors to the city are invited to make their first stop the Visitor Information Center in the Chicago Cultural Center, located at 78 East Washington Street. For more information on visiting Chicago this spring, or to book accommodations, visit www.explorechicago.org or call 877-CHICAGO.

Special Events

The Magnificent Mile is not only home to numerous restaurants, shops and hotels but also to thousands of tulips that bloom each spring. Tulips on the Magnificent Mile takes place from April 15 through May 31, 2010. Celebrate the season and view the tulip gardens that line the Magnificent Mile while taking advantage of exclusive offers from the businesses along the colorful street, as well as special tulip-themed activities, including the Magnificent Mile Floral Market over Mother’s Day Weekend (May 8–9).

The Chicago Early Music Festival (CEMF) debuts in April 2010 as the City’s first festival celebrating music of the Medieval, Renaissance and Baroque eras. The six-day collaborative festival, presented by the Chicago Department of Cultural Affairs and the Chicago Office of Tourism, kicks off on April 20 and runs through April 25. Representing an unprecedented collaboration among the City of Chicago and some of Chicago’s leading Early Music ensembles and organizations, CEMF features free and ticketed performances; lectures and master classes by internationally renowned musicians at venues throughout the city including Millennium Park; and community events.

Each year, the Lincoln Park and Garfield Park Conservatories hold their annual Spring Flower Shows. These free events allow visitors the opportunity to experience a bit of Chicago floral history. The flower shows feature the descendants of Azaleas that bloomed in 1893 at the World’s Columbian Exposition. At this year’s events, there will also be a selection of spring flowering annuals and spring flowering perennials. The flower shows continue through May 9, 2010.

Grab the old mitt and head out to the ball park! The Major League Baseball season kicks off on April 5, 2010. Watch the 2008 American League Central Division champions, the Chicago White Sox, play their home opener at U.S. Cellular Field. With tasty ball park food and original features like the Pontiac Fundamentals, an interactive area especially for kids, U.S. Cellular is fun for the entire family. Or experience a bit of history and head up north to baseball’s 2nd oldest stadium, Wrigley Field to watch the 2008 National League Central Division champions, the Chicago Cubs, take on their National League rivals. The Cubs open their home season on Monday, April 12 against a perennial Midwest rival — the Milwaukee Brewers.

Art enthusiasts should head to the Merchandise Mart from April 30 – May 3 to attend Artropolis 2010, Chicago’s celebration of art, antiques and culture. Consisting of Art Chicago, NEXT and The Merchandise Mart International Antiques Fair, Artropolis once again features something for everyone — from the novice art enthusiast to the veteran collector.

There’s no better way to take advantage of Chicago’s nickname, “The Windy City” than with Mayor Daley’s Kids & Kites Festival at Cricket Hill in Lincoln Park. This festival allows children to decorate and fly their own kites with kite kits. Taking place on May 1, this free event also offers face painting, storytelling and crafts.

The 14th Annual Celtic Fest Chicago begins a new tradition in Millennium Park this Mother’s Day weekend, May 8 and 9. The festival brings artists from around the world to Chicago to celebrate the culture of the seven ancient Celtic nations. Celtic Fest Chicago features a full line-up of world-class entertainment both days, including the Celtic Art Fair; traditional and contemporary Celtic music and dance; the popular bagpipe parade and Harp and Uilleann Pipe area; a Men in Kilts Contest; traditional Celtic dancing; and Celtic music school performers from the Chicago area.

Commemorate Memorial Day Weekend in Chicago. As one of the largest events of its kind in the country, the Chicago Memorial Day Wreath Laying Ceremony and Parade honors all who have given their lives for their country. During this event, the City of Chicago will recognize the Illinois Gold Star families. The celebration will begin at the Eternal Flame in Daley Plaza with the parade on State Street kicking off at noon on May 29, 2010.

Upcoming Museum Events

Mammoths and Mastodons: Titans of the Ice Age, an exploration of these fascinating creatures, premiers at Chicago’s Field Museum March 5 and runs through September 6, 2010, before embarking on a four-year tour of 10 venues in North America and overseas. The exhibition is geared for all ages and is an experience the whole family will enjoy.

Visit the DuSable Museum of African American History from January 23 through April 4, 2010 for an interactive multimedia exhibition, Freedom’s Sisters, and learn about 20 African American women who helped advance civil rights in America. From historical figures to contemporary leaders, discover these extraordinary but often unsung heroines who have sought equality for all Americans.

Matisse: Radical Invention, 1913 – 1917, at the Art Institute of Chicago explores the paintings of Henri Matisse from the time between his 1913 return from Morocco and his 1917 departure for Nice, considered to be his most most demanding, experimental, and enigmatic. The exhibition opens on March 20 and runs though June 6, 2010.

Step inside a 40-foot tornado and feel the vapor whirl around you. See a 20-foot bolt of lightning crackle over your head. Trigger an avalanche. Unleash a tsunami wave. It’s all possible beginning March 18, 2010, as the Museum of Science and Industry, Chicago unveils Science Storms, an unprecedented and dramatic permanent exhibit that reveals the extraordinary science behind some of nature’s most powerful and compelling phenomena—tornadoes, lightning, fire, tsunamis, sunlight, avalanches and atoms in motion.

Theatrical Highlights

One of Broadway’s most celebrated new shows begins performances in Chicago March 18, 2010 at the Ford Center for the Performing Arts, Oriental Theatre. Based on the international smash-hit film, Billy Elliot the Musical is a joyous, exciting and feel-good celebration of one boy following his heart and making his dreams come true. Full of life, laughter, astonishing dancing and unforgettable music, this uplifting experience is brought to life by the Tony Award winning creative team: director Stephen Daldry, choreographer Peter Darling and writer Lee Hall, along with music legend Sir Elton John.

Four Chicago theaters, Steppenwolf Theatre, Goodman Theatre, Victory Gardens and Chicago Shakespeare Theater, have all received the prestigious Regional Tony Award, more than any other city in the nation. Spring 2010 highlights at these theaters include:

• Goodman Theatre — True History of the Johnstown Flood, the devastating flood of 1889 is the backdrop for this world premiere by Rebecca Gilman. March 13-April 18.

• Steppenwolf Theatre Company — Endgame, with a cast including William Petersen in Samuel Beckett’s absurd comic masterpiece. April 1 – June 6.

• Victory Gardens — The Lost Boys of Sudan, Three boys of the Dinka tribe flee the horrors of war and end up in Fargo, North Dakota. March 19-April 25.

• Chicago Shakespeare Theater — The Taming of the Shrew, Shakespeare’s playfully provocative battle of the sexes pits the shrewish Katharina against the fortune-seeking Petruchio—but even now the verdict is still out on who tames whom. April 7 – June 6.

Farmers Markets

The main components of a healthy and balanced diet are fruits and vegetables and what better place to buy your fresh fruits and vegetables as well as condiments, preserves and seasonings than at Chicago’s Downtown Farmstand. Located at 66 E Randolph Street in downtown Chicago, the farmstand features local products grown or produced within 250 miles of Chicago. The farmstand also hosts programs and activities such as lunchtime demonstrations and discussions between local growers and Chicago residents.

Searching for fresh fruits and vegetable in Chicago couldn’t be simpler at farmers markets that are found throughout the city. This May, the Mayor’s Office of Special Events and Country Financial present the 31th anniversary of Chicago Farmers Markets. Markets can be found in Daley Plaza, Federal Plaza, Lincoln Park and additional locations in the metropolitan area and they continue through October.

Green City Market, celebrating it’s 12th season, is Chicago’s only year round farmer’s market. In addition to over 60 sustainable and/or organic farmers and producers, Green City Market also offers educational programs including chef demonstrations; a kids program, Club Sprouts, which encourages children to sample produce; Savor the Season, highlighting products at the height of their taste and availability; and much more. Located outdoors May – October at the south end of Lincoln Park, (and indoors in the winter months at the Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum) Green City Market is open every Wednesday and Saturday from 7:00 a.m.-1:00 p.m. (with limited winter hours).

Chicago’s first and only year-round, European-inspired indoor market gives visitors and locals convenient, permanent and personal access to nearly 30 local artisans, farmers and purveyors. Chicago French Market offers fresh ingredients for cooking at home, delicious grab-and-go options for breakfast, lunch and dinner, light snacks, picnics, easy party planning for home and office settings, plus meaningful gift ideas, all in one convenient location at 131 North Clinton Street.

The Chicago Office of Tourism, a division of the Department of Cultural Affairs, is the official City agency dedicated to promoting Chicago to domestic and international visitors and to providing innovative visitor programs and services.

Photo by eJourna

Hubbard House, Ashtabula Ohio’s Underground Railroad Station

Ron — Tue, 09 Feb 2010 20:00:48 +0000

In keeping with Black History Month, it seemed entirely appropriate to come across a post on Hubbard House, a terminus on the Underground Railroad in Ashtabula Ohio, over at MidwestGuest’s travel blog.

Dominique at MidwestGuest writes:

Ohio is important in the history of the Underground Railroad. Ohio residents helped runaway slaves as early at the 1810s, and estimates say there were about 3,000 miles of Underground Railroad trails established in Ohio with as many as 40,000 people using them to escape slavery. There were over 30 known Underground Railroad stations in Ashtabula County.

The Hubbard House quickly became a station on the Underground Railroad. A steady stream of runaway slaves arrived at the home seeking shelter, and the Hubbards hid them in the cellar or in their hayloft. One account that says the couple hid as many as 39 slaves at their home at one time.

Check out the full story on Hubbard House, accompanied by great photos, at MidwestGuest.com.

Be sure to also check out our other stories relating to events and activities celebrating Black History Month in Missouri and Ohio. There’s enough to do in either state to make a great educational family road trip out of it.

Do you have other favorite spots or events celebrating Black History Month? Tell us about them by leaving a comment below!