Bedno.com - 2008.06.27 (week 574)

2008.06.27 (week 574)

Let me help.

Let me help.: "A hundred years or so from now, I believe, a famous novelist will write a classic using that theme. He'll recommend those three words, even over 'I love you'."
RECOMMENDED:: Movie: "WALL-E" now playing everywhere.
Movie: "Wanted" now playing everywhere.
Ongoing: Bike Chicago at Various City Locations.
Ongoing: Grant Park Music Festival.
Ongoing: Summer Vacation at Chicago Public Schools.
Ongoing: Chicago Summerdance at Grant Park.
Ongoing: Cirque Du Soleil "Kooza" at United Center.
..-Su: Wizard World at Donald E. Stephens Convention Center.
..-Su: Peace Fest.
Ongoing: Taste Of Chicago at Grant Park.
Ongoing: Cirque Shanghai at Skyline Stage.
Ongoing: Pleasant Outdoor Concerts daily at Ravinia.
Ongoing: Neighborhood Tour from Cultural Center.
Ongoing: Farmers Markets at Various city locations.
..-Su: Body Art Expo at Navy Pier.
Ongoing: "Drawing on Experience" at Woman Made Gallery.
..-Sa: Cans Outdoor Music Fest at Cans Bar & Canteen.
Fr: Critical Mass at Daley Plaza.
Fr: Supernatural Chicago at Excalibur.
Fr: Cosmix at Berlin.
...

Movie: ^

"WALL-E" now playing.: Heroic team of misfit Disney robots save Earth.
http://disney.go.com/disneypictures/wall-e/
Theaters Everywhere.
http://bedno.com/movies
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"Wanted" now playing.: W/ James McAvoy, Morgan Freeman, Angelina Jolie, Terence Stamp, Thomas Kretschmann, Common, Kristen Hager, Marc Warren, ...
http://www.wantedmovie.com
Theaters Everywhere.
http://bedno.com/movies
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Now playing.: Love Guru, Get Smart, The Happening, The Incredible Hulk, Don't Mess with the Zohan, Kung Fu Panda, Indiana Jones 4, Chronicles of Narnia, Speed Racer, What Happens in Vegas, Iron Man, Baby Mama, Harold & Kumar Escape, 88 Minutes, Smart People, ...
Theaters Everywhere.
http://bedno.com/movies
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Movies and Beer. Movies, drinking, heckling, FUN! -Thursday 18+ (ID reqd) $5.: 8:15p Fr-Sa,Mo-Th; 7:15p Su: What Happens in Vegas - Cameron Diaz, Ashton Kutcher, Rob Corddry, ...
10p Fr-Sa,Mo-Th; 9p Su: There's Something About Mary - Cameron Diaz, Matt Dillon, Ben Stiller, Chris Elliott, ...
Brew & View, 773/929-6713, 3145 N Sheffield. Around the corner from the Red line Belmont stop.
http://www.brewview.com
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Ongoing: ^

Bike Chicago (since 1991). Five months of events to promote the health, economic and environmental benefits of bicycling. -2008.09.30 Yearly.: Participate in any of the over 150 events. Helmet sale and Police auction, workshops and safety checks, lectures and clinics, neighborhood tours and family events, contests and stunt shows, parades and more!! Bikes temporarily allowed on certain train and bus lines at certain times. Mayor's Office of Special Events, see site or call.
312/744-3315 http://www.bikechicago.us
Various City Locations.
http://biketraffic.org
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Grant Park Music Festival (since 1935). -2008.08.16 Yearly. All ages. Free Various We/Fr/Sa 6:30p.: World-class orchestra, chorus and conductors, and an outstanding roster of local and international guest artists perform classical.
312/742-7638 http://grantparkmusicfestival.com
Grant Park, Columbus Drive and Jackson Boulevard. Train, bus or cab.
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Summer Vacation. -2008.09.01 Yearly.: Chicago Public Schools.
http://www.cps.k12.il.us
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Chicago Summerdance (since 1997). Lessons, dancing, big bands, different style everyday. -2008.08.24 Yearly. All ages. Free Su 4-7p, Th-Sa 6-9:30p.: Salsa, Swing, Waltz, Bamboleo, Cha Cha, Polka, Tango, Mambo, Fox Trot, etc. Lessons first hour.
http://egov.cityofchicago.org/SummerDance/
Grant Park, 312/742-4007, 601 S Michigan. Between Harrison and Balbo, easy by train, bus, trolley, bike or blade.
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* Cirque Du Soleil "Kooza" -2008.08.03 All ages. $39-125 Various times.: Tells the story of The Innocent, a melancholy loner in search of his place in the world. Combines acrobatic performances and the art of clowning. Highlights the physical demands of human performance in all its splendor and fragility, presented in a colorful melange that emphasizes bold slapstick humor. The Innocent's journey brings him into contact with a panoply of comic characters such as the King, the Trickster, the Pickpocket, and the Obnoxious Tourist and his Bad Dog. Set in an electrifying and exotic visual world full of surprises, thrills, chills, audacity and total involvement. Explores themes of turmoil and harmony, fear, identity, recognition and power.
http://cirquedusoleil.com
United Center, 1901 W Madison.
http://www.unitedcenter.com
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* Wizard World. -Sunday Yearly. All ages. $20-40 10a-6p.: Hundreds of comics and collectibles vendors, special featured guest, popular cartoonists, and famous actors.
http://wizardworld.com
Donald E. Stephens Convention Center, 847/268-2000, 5555 N River Road, Rosemont. Formerly the Rosemont Convention Center.
http://www.rosemont.com/convcent_new.htm
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** Peace Fest. -Sunday Yearly. All ages. Free 12-9p.: Days of peace & music, speakers, bands, vendors, poets, drum circles, speakers, activists, more.
http://www.myspace.com/chicagopeacefest
1600 N Stockton Dr Lincoln Park, off Lasalle, South of Zoo.
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Taste Of Chicago (since 1981). Beer, meat, people, major bands. -2008.07.06 Yearly. All ages. Free entry. 11a-9p.: Around 70 quality restaurants represented. Bring money and sun screen. Variety of special attractions including flume ride, kid fun, Fox stars, high diving, much more. Good bands at several stages all day.
http://www.cityofchicago.org
Grant Park, 312/744-3370, Columbus and Balbo. Easy by train, bus, trolley, bike or blade.
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Cirque Shanghai. -2008.09.01 All ages. $12-30+ We-Su various time.: The best acrobats from the most acclaimed troupes direct from China thrilling audiences with a stunning combination of circus arts set in a breathtaking full-scale theatrical performance.
312/902-1500 http://cirqueshanghai.com
Navy Pier, Skyline Stage, 312/595-7437 (PIER), 600 E Grand.
http://www.navypier.com
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Pleasant Outdoor Concerts almost daily.: Jun.27: Boz Scaggs.
Jun.28: Natya Dance Theatre (Kraft Kids Concert).
Jun.28: The Temptations/The Four Tops.
Jun.29: Poi Dog Pondering.
Jul.01: Igor Ozim.
Jul.03: Mendelssohn String Quartet.
Ravinia, 847/266-5100, 400 Iris Lane, Highland Pk. Served my Metra.
http://www.ravinia.org
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WAY too much great theater and comedy and dance to cover.: Pickup Reader and NewCity magazines.
Hundreds of city locations.
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Chicago Neighborhood Tours. Bring a snack. $20-45 4hr 10a.: Chicago Cultural Center, 312/742-1190, 77 E Randolph.
http://chicagoneighborhoodtours.com
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Farmers Markets (since 1980). Fresh and charming. -2008.10.30 Yearly. All ages. Free.: Tu: Lincoln Square, Lncn/Llnd/Wstrn 7a-2p 06.10-10.28.
Tu: Federal Plaza, Adams/Dearborn, 7a-3p 5.13-10.28.
Th: Daley Plaza 7a-3p 05.15-10.02.
Th: Hyde Park, 52nd&HarperCourt 7a-2p 06.05-10.30.
Sa: Austin, Madison&Central 7a-2p 07.12-10.25.
Sa: Lincoln Park, Armitage&Orchard 7a-2p 05.17-10.25.
Sa: Near North, Dearborn&Division 7a-2p 05.31-10.25.
Sa: North Center, BellPln/Damen/Lncln 7a-2p 06.14-10.18.
Su: WickerPark, WickerPark&Damen 7a-2p 06.08-10.26.
http://www.chicagofarmersmarkets.us
Various city locations.
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Different rock, experimental, jazz, ethnic bands almost every night. 21+ $?: Metro / SmartBar, 773/549-0203, 3730 N Clark, Near Red Line Addison stop, metrochicago.com
Darkroom, 773/276-1411, 2210 W Chicago, darkroombar.com
Double Door, 773/489-3160, 1572 N Milwaukee, Wicker Park near Blue line Damen stop, doubledoor.com
Empty Bottle, 773/276-3600, 1035 N Western, dive-ish, emptybottle.com
Martyrs', 773/404-9494, 3855 N Lincoln, martyrslive.com
Ravinia, 847/266-5100, Highland Pk, ravinia.org
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Friday 2008.06.27: ^

Body Art Expo. -Sunday All ages. $22-45+ Fr 2-11p, Sa -11p, Su -8p. 11a.: "World's Largest Tattoo Expo"
http://www.bodyartexpo.com
Navy Pier, 312/595-7437 (PIER), 600 E Grand. On-site parking, or Grand Red line stop then take free trolley.
http://www.navypier.com
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"Drawing on Experience" -2008.07.24 We-Fr -7p, Sa/Su 12-4p.: Juried group show by women, mixed media, works "that directly evidence the hand and thought of the artist."
06.27: Opening reception 6-9p.
Woman Made Gallery, 312/738-0400, 685 N Milwaukee.
http://www.womanmade.org
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Cans Outdoor Music Fest (since 2003). -Saturday Yearly. All ages. $5 donation Fr 4, Sa 2p.: Fr: DJ Chris Gin 5:30-7p, Rehab Allstars 7-8p, Vanilla Ice 8p-?
Sa: Wee Hairy Beasties 3p, DJ Chris Gin 5:30-7p, Rehab Allstars 7-8p, C&C Music Factory 8p-?
Cans Bar & Canteen, 773/227-2277, 1640 N. Damen. 1 block north of North/Milwaukee.
http://www.cansbar.com
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* Critical Mass (since 1996). Last Fridays All ages Free 5:30p.: THE monthly gathering of bicyclists making their presence known downtown. Unplanned route slowly winds a dozen miles or so. Thousands attend in good weather. Includes music, hipsters, athletes, show bikes, so much more. Skaters welcome.
Daley Plaza, 773/486-4861, 50 W Washington. Under the Picasso (giant rusty bird), at Dearborn, SW of State&Lake train stop.
http://www.chicagocriticalmass.org
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Supernatural Chicago (since 2004). Interactive theatre exploring Chicago's paranormal past. Fridays 21+ $25 8-9p.: Hosted by Necromancer Neil Tobin. Hear true Chicago stories of the unexplained, brought to life through audience-involving demonstrations of telepathy, clairvoyance, mediumship and magic -- at one of Chicago's most haunted nightspots. Price includes the show plus two drinks and general admission to the club.
http://www.SupernaturalChicago.com
Excalibur, 312/266-1944, 632 N Dearborn. Downtown, valet or pay.
http://www.excaliburchicago.com
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Cosmix. Fridays 21+ $0-5 10p-4a.: Greg Haus spins his signature mix of progressive, hardhouse, trance, & breakbeat along with some of his favorite classic club hits.
http://www.hauswerkz.com
Berlin, 773/348-4975, 954 W Belmont. Near Red line Belmont stop.
http://www.berlinchicago.com
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Too Much Light Makes the Baby Go Blind (since 1988). Fr/Sa All ages? $6-11 (also Su 7p) 11:30p.: 30 plays in 60 minutes, lots of improv, very welcoming, often topical.
Neo-Futurarium, 773/275-5255, 5153 N Ashland.
http://www.neofuturists.org
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Saturday 2008.06.28: ^

Cardboard Cup Regatta (since 1985). Yearly. Race: 9a-noon.: Over 100 entrants build boats of cardboard and compete for a variety of awards on 200 yard course.
http://cardboardcup.com
Main Beach Park, 300 Lakeshore Drive, Crystal Lake.
http://www.crystallakeparks.org
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Wolff's Flea Market (since 1991). Sa/Su -2008.10.26 Yearly. All ages. $1 Most weeks. 6a-3p.: 500 market spaces. Clean, comprehensive, entertaining, with free parking, food and restrooms.
847/524-9590 http://www.wolffs.com
Allstate Arena, 847/635-6601, 6920 Mannheim Rd, Rosemont.
http://www.allstatearena.com
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* Fountain Square Art Festival (since 1980). Lots of quality art, food and bands. -Sunday Yearly. 10a-10p.: About 300 artists, strictly juried.
http://www.evchamber.com
Evanston Business District, 1100 W Main, Evanston. Purple line Main stop.
http://www.cityofevanston.org
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"BAM!" Belmont Arts and Music Fest. -Sunday Yearly. 12-10p.: 25 bands at two stages. Family/kids entertainment, cool shopping.
http://www.rvcc.biz
Roscoe Village, 2100 W. Belmont. From Damen to Leavitt.
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Stopping Lessons by Chicago Skate Patrol. Sa/Su -2008.08.31 Yearly. All ages. Free 12-3p.: Certified volunteers teach stopping and other basics. Look for the banner and red t-shirts near the ramp. PERFECT for beginners to walk, drive, cab or train to, bringing skates and protective gear. Great performers practicing nearby.
http://Bedno.com/skate
Oak Street Beach
http://www.nsp-chicago.org
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College of Complexes (since 1951). "The Playground for People Who Think" Saturdays All ages. $3 food/drink purchase 2.5hrs 8-11p.: Structured weekly free speech forum with quality lecturers and good American food and bar.
06.28: "Chicago Committee for Fair Food - tomato pickers vs Burger King"
312/326-2120 http://www.collegeofcomplexes.org
Lincoln Restaurant, 773/248-1820, 4008 N Lincoln. Near Lincoln/Irving/Damen.
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Signature CD Release w/ Algren. 21+ $10 8:30p.: A great night of new rock music, Algren returns w/ new material, headlining Signature's CD release show, playing w/ fellow rock bands Killing Karma, Alive Day, and Gypsy Fly.
Elbo Room, 773/549-5549, 2871 N Lincoln. 1blk N of Diversey, 3blk S of Belmont, at George. Brown line Wellington stop or #76 Diversey bus or #11 Lincoln/Sedgwick bus.
http://www.elboroomchicago.com
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"Twisted" Saturdays 21+ $0 -11p, $5 -1a, $7+ 9:30p-5a.: "Meet and mingle with a truly diverse crowd. Dress up or dress down... this is the place to be what you want to be!"
Berlin, 773/348-4975, 954 W Belmont. Near Red line Belmont stop.
http://www.berlinchicago.com
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FIREWORKS!!! Sa/We -2008.08.30 Yearly. All ages. Free We 9:30p, Sa 10:15p.: Visible anywhere near the lake.
Navy Pier, 312/222-9328, 600 E Grand. Take the free trolley.
http://www.navypier.com
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Belmont Burlesque Revue. 4th Saturdays 21+ $10 12a.: The Bombshells bring their own unique blend of old school burlesque, featuring acts ranging from bawdy comedy to classy striptease to mystifying magic.
http://belmontburlesque.com
The Playground, 312/871-3793, 3209 N Halsted.
http://www.the-playground.com
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Sunday 2008.06.29: ^

*** Gay Pride Parade and Festival (since 1970). One of the nations largest. Last Sunday in June Yearly. All ages. Free 12p.: Hundreds of floats, thousands of flamboyantly happy people. Special events at all area bars and restaurants, major after-parties. Starting point may backup South on Halsted to Fullerton. Wear sun screen.
773/348-8243 http://www.chicagopridecalendar.org
Boystown, Belmont and Halsted. North on Halsted to Broadway, South on Broadway to Diversey, East on Diversey to Canon Drive at Lincoln Park.
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Beach Poets (since 1990). Sundays -2008.08.24 Yearly. All ages. Free 4-6p.: Cathleen Schandelmeier-Bartels hosts varied readings and music.
773/465-5460 http://www.myspace.com/beachpoets
Loyola Beach, 7049 N Sheridan. Greenleaf at the lakefront, near Heartland stand.
http://chicagopoetry.com
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New Power Party (since 1996). Samnation spins Artist Formerly Known as Prince. Last Sundays 21+ Free 8p-4a.: Movie at 8p, dancing from 10p, diverse glam clique.
Berlin, 773/348-4975, 954 W Belmont. At Red line Belmont stop.
http://www.berlinchicago.com
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Weekly Coffeehouse (since 1999). Sundays All ages. Donation 8-?p.: Open mic, poets, musicians, interesting alternative community art and photos always on display. May include coffee, tea, soda, snax, raffle.
The Burkhart Underground, 773/348-8536, 1228 N Noble St. Rear Coach House.
http://burkhartstudios.com
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The Police Experience. 17+ $13+ 9p.: Official Tribute Band.
http://policeexperience.com
House of Blues, 312/527-2583, 329 N Dearborn.
http://www.hob.com/venues/clubvenues/chicago
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"Adult Swim" NEW EPISODES. Sundays All ages. Free 10p-12a.: Extraordinarily good block of free-form thought-jazz toonage. May include Venture Bros, Oblongs, Aqua Teen Hunger Force, SeaLab 2021, Tim and Eric's Awesome Show Great Job, Metalocalypse, Family Guy, more.
http://www.adultswim.com
TOON. On cable.
http://www.cartoonnetwork.com
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Monday 2008.06.30: ^

"Clash" Drum&Bass. Mondays 21+ Free 10p-?a.: Various dedicated local DJs weekly.
06.30: "MIA rollcall"
773/337-1535 http://myspace.com/alfonzdlm
Tini Martini, 773/269-2900, 2169 N. Milwaukee. Logan Square.
http://tinimartini.com
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Boom Boom Room (since 1991). Mondays 21+ 10p-4a.: Long running weekly w/ DJs Michael Serafini, Diz, Just Joey, Uncle Milty; Hosts JoJo, Sal-E, Reggie, Christopher Banks, Danielle, Dr. Cho; 4kft dance space, multiple bars and environments, late night dining, state-of-the-art sound and lights, free parking, more.
06.30: DJ Lego / BBBQ'd Beats With Moo & Oink.
http://www.boomboomroomchicago.com
Green Dolphin Street, 773/395-0066, 2200 N Ashland. At Webster.
http://www.jazzitup.com
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The Daily Show w/ Jon Stewart. Emmy award winner. Mo/Tu/We/Th All ages, Free. Reruns several times a day. 10-10:30p.: "The best fake news show ever!" Followed by the brilliant "Colbert Report" show.
Struggling along without writers.
COM. On cable.
http://www.comedycentral.com
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Tuesday 2008.07.01: ^

Good day for Brew&View. Tuesdays 18+ $5+ Now non-smoking.: Drinking, movies, heckling, FUN!
8:15p What Happens in Vegas, 10p There's Something About Mary.
Brew & View, 773/929-6713, 3145 N Sheffield. Around the corner from the Red line Belmont stop.
http://www.brewview.com
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Crimson Tuesdays. Tuesdays -2008.07.29 21+ Free 6p-2a.: Guitarist Brent Kimbrough live 6-9p, DJ Frankie Hollywood 10-close.
312/943-0333
Crimson Lounge, 312/923-2473, 333 N. Dearborn St.
http://www.crimsonchicago.com
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Wednesday 2008.07.02: ^

American Music Festival (since 1981). -Saturday Yearly. All ages. $25 We-Th 4:30p-1a, Fr-Sa 1p-3a.: See website for massive schedule of great acts.
Fitzgerald's, 708/788-6670, 6615 Roosevelt Road, Berwyn. 6blks from Forest Park Blue Line stop at Oak Park Ave.
http://www.fitzgeraldsnightclub.com
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Less Than Jake. All ages. $20+ 5p.: W/ Goldfinger.
http://lessthanjake.com
House of Blues, 312/527-2583, 329 N Dearborn.
http://www.hob.com/venues/clubvenues/chicago
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Crimson Wednesdays. Vocalist Petra Van Nuis & DJ Frankie Hollywood! Wednesdays -2008.07.30 21+ $? 6p-2a.: Live vocalist Petra Van Nuis 6-9p, DJ Frankie Hollywood 10p-close.
312/943-0333
Crimson Lounge, 312/923-2473, 333 N. Dearborn St.
http://www.crimsonchicago.com
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"Seminar" - THE weekly drum&bass party (since 1998). Wednesdays 21+ $0-10 7p-2a.: http://www.bassbythepound.com
Lava Lounge, 773/342-LAVA, 1270 N Milwaukee.
http://lavachicago.com
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* Magic Chicago (since 2004). 1st Wednesdays All ages. $20 7:30p.: Monthly showcase of skilled local magicians.
07.02: David Kovac and Mr. Firu. Known as a Modern-Day Vaudevillian, David has appeared at the world famous Magic Castle in Hollywood. Mr. Firu is a co-founder of Pocket Circus, the first local Hispanic Entertainment Company, and has toured internationally.
773/334-4192 http://magicchicagoshow.com
City Lit Theater, 773/293-3682, 1020 W Bryn Mawr. located in the historic Edgewater Presbyterian Church.
http://www.citylit.org
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Tributosaurus. Monthly. 21+ $15 8p.: "The Jurassic beast with multiple musical faces. A different band every month, featuring local music celebrities."
07.02: Becomes The Allman Brothers. Special opening set from Shamus (Grateful Dead homage).
http://tributosaurus.com
Martyrs', 773/404-9494, 3855 N Lincoln.
http://martyrslive.com
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"In One Ear" (since 1988). Poetry Open Mic. Wednesdays 18+ $3 10p-?a.: "Eclectic mix of people who groove on laid-back vibes."
http://www.myspace.com/inoneear
Heartland Cafe, 773/465-8005, 7000 N Glenwood. Near Red Line Morse stop.
http://www.heartlandcafe.com
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ElectroWave. We/Th 21+ Free 10p-4a.: DJs QBot + Kamar spin Electro, Retro, SynthPop, NewWave, more.
Uptown Lounge, 773/878-1136, 1136 W Lawrence. Near Red Line Lawrence stop.
http://uptownlounge.net
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Thursday 2008.07.03: ^

Lisle Eyes to the Skies Balloonfest (since 1981). Yearly. All ages. $5-7 12-11p.: Major hot air ballooning event, includes nationally known bands, food, carnival, etc, weather permitting.
http://eyestotheskiesfestival.com
Lisle Community Park, 630/575-9798, Hwy. 53 and Short Street. Near I-88 and I-355.
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* Naperville Rib Fest. Yearly. All ages. $0-10 12-10p.: Big fest with over a dozen barbeque vendors (Ribbers) and other treats and merchandise. Also carnival rides, and diverse kids entertainment including dog acts, tumblers, magic and more. "To promote Americanism, enrich community life through leisure activities ... promote a strong family unit and support prevention of child abuse and domestic violence in all forms."
http://ribfest.net
Knoch Park, W Martin Ave at S West St, Naperville.
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Pianist Mark Multrip & Butter Boogie. 21+ 6p-2a.: 312/943-0333
Crimson Lounge, 312/923-2473, 333 N Dearborn St.
http://www.crimsonchicago.com
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* Independence Day Concert and Fireworks (since 1978). Draws a million+ to the NavyPier/TasteOfChicago area! Yearly. All ages. Free 8p.: Fireworks are over Monroe harbor. TV simulcast, orchestra culminating in 1812 overture, then American classics accompanying pyrotechnics.
ALSO: Many great suburban shows!
http://www.cityofchicago.org
Grant Park, 312/744-3370, Columbus and Balbo. Easy by train, bus, trolley, bike or blade.
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"Die Maschine" Thursdays 21+ Free 9p-2a.: DJs Noir, Easy E, Sprite, others spin agro, noise, ebm in back; Momma Kitty VJs 80-90s up front.
http://demonsanddarlings.com
Spin Nightclub, 773/327-7711, 800 W Belmont.
http://www.spin-nightclub.com
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Big C Jamboree (since 1991). 1st Thursdays 21+ Free 9:30p-?a.: Longest running local Rockabilly night. Multiple bands perform 40s-50s style swing, blues, rock-n-roll, swiftly and simply to a jumpin party crowd, many in period getups.
http://bigcjamboree.com/
Martyrs', 773/404-9494, 3855 N Lincoln.
http://martyrslive.com
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Atomic. Thursdays 21+ $5 10p-4a.: DJs QBot + Kamar and special guest DJs spin 80s, New Wave, more.
http://www.djkamar.com
Neo, 773/528-2622, 2350 N Clark. Just South of Fullerton. Sometimes parking rare.
http://neo-chicago.com
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Attractions: ^

Many great exhibits of local works and curated collections. All ages. Free. Mo-Th 8a-7p, Fr 8a-6p, Sa 9a-6p, Su 10a-6p.: With various special events, music and performances almost every day.
Chicago Cultural Center, 312/744-6630, 77 E Randolph.
http://www.cityofchicago.org/culturalcenter/
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Various good modern art shows. All ages. $0-12, Free Thursdays 5-8p. Mo-We,Fr 10:30a-5p, Th 10:30a-8p, Sa-Su 10a-5p.: Museum of Contemporary Art, 312/280-2660, 220 E Chicago.
http://www.mcachicago.org
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LIKE A DOWNTOWN AMUSEMENT PARK. All ages. Mostly free.: With Giant Ferris Wheel, IMAX theatre, historic carousel, a*mazing Chicago ride, classic spinning swing ride, new mini-golf course, major VR games, food court, quality restaurants and bars, stained glass window museum, enclosed garden, wonderful specialty shops, children's museum, water taxis, several cruise lines and the Shakespeare Theatre.
Summer: 10a-10p Su-Th, 10a-midnt Fr-Sa; Fall: Mo-Th 10a-9p, Fr+Sa 10a-11p, Su 10a-7p; Winter: 10a-8p Mo-Th, 10a-10p Fr-Sa, 10a-7p Su.
Navy Pier, 312/222-9328, 600 E Grand. On-site parking, or Grand Red line stop then take free trolley.
http://www.navypier.com
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See how the universe works. All ages. $10-18+ Mo-Fr 9:30a-4:30p (-10p 1st Fridays), Sa/Su 9a-4:30p, closed xmas, open -6p 12.26-1.5.: Much high tech exhibitry.
Adler Planetarium, 312/922-7827 (STAR), 1300 S Lake Shore.
http://www.adlerplanetarium.org
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Masterpieces. All ages. $12 Mo/Tu/We/Fr 10:30a-5p, Th 10:30a-8p, Sa/Su 10a-5p, closed xgiving+xmas.: And other interesting permanent and visiting exhibits.
Art Institute of Chicago, 312/443-3500, 210 S Michigan.
http://www.artic.edu/aic
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World class gardens. Easy to get to. All ages. $8.75 parking. 8a-sunset, closed xmas.: 385 acres, 23 gardens, 9 islands, prarie simulation, oriental features, miniature railway, produce, shows, restaurant, more...
Chicago Botanic Gardens, 847/835-5440, 1000 Lake Cook Road, Glencoe.
http://www.chicago-botanic.org
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Quality exhibits and activities for young minds. All ages. $0-9, Free Th 5-8p. Su-We+Fr -5p, Th+Sa 10a-8p.: Chicago Children's Museum, 312/527-1000, Navy Pier.
http://www.chichildrensmuseum.org
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Natural History done right. All ages. $6-12. Last entry 4p, closed xmas. 9a-5p.: "Sue" permanent dinosaur exhibit, insects, anthropology, world culture, geology, ecology, much more.
Field Museum, 312/922-9410, Roosevelt at Lake Shore Drive.
http://www.fmnh.org
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Exhibits covering 4000 years of surgical history. Not for the squeamish. All ages. $3-6, Free Tuesdays. Tu-Sa 10a-4p. Closed 12.24-25, 12.31-1.1.: International Museum of Surgical Science, 312/642-6502, 1524 N Lake Shore.
http://www.imss.org
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World class zoo. Now with web cams. All ages. Free (Building hours vary) 9a-6p.: Lincoln Park Zoo, 773/742-2000, 2200 N Cannon.
http://www.lpzoo.com
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Consistent world class wonderland, set aside a whole day. All ages. $6-11 +parking/movies, Sometimes free. Mo-Sa 9:30a-4p, Su 11a-4p.: Exhibits include clock (possibly the best historical collection in existence), trains, toys, flight, genetics, chemistry, coal, petroleum, human body slices, cyberspace, farming, the U-505, TONS of space flight tech, and much more.
Museum of Science and Industry, 773/684-1414, 57th at Lake Shore.
http://www.msichicago.org
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Truly stunning world class aquarium. $11-18, some deal days. Sa/Su 9a-6p, Mo-Fr 9a-5p (-6p in summer), some later days.: Rear outside deck has the city's best skyline view. Now with web cams.
Shedd Aquarium, 312/939-2438, 1200 S Lake Shore.
http://SheddAquarium.org
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Notes: ^

ALWAYS call before going to a listed event.: ALWAYS call before going to a listed event.
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Disclaimer.: My mom the attorney would want me to remind you that no Bedno accepts any liability whatsoever for your use of any information presented here, as-is, at your own risk, ad infinitum, etc etc.
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Many thanx to ChicagoFun.com.: Many thanx to ChicagoFun.com for hosting this system. ChicagoFun.com is THE one-stop special-event planning resource for the Chicagoland area.
http://ChicagoFun.com

2008.06.27